Staten Island Parent October 2015

OCTOBER 2015

SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY PARENTING

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ADVERTISER INDEX PAGE 97

TABLE OF CONTENTS OCTOBER 2015

COVER STORY

The Cake Smash Craze Kids have been playing with their food since ..... forever! Now parents are embracing the mess and capturing the fun on film. Read our article on how to make your child’s first birthday a Smash to Remember!

Read more on page 50

Nicholas D’Egidio, of Annadale, enjoying his yummy first birthday cake!

COLUMNS

ARTICLES

Check out our Fall Fun Page on

32 Ask the Doctor

18 When to Hire a Tutor

by Dr. Thomas Forlenza, RUMC

20 Does Your Child Need an

42 Good Sports

Emotional Health Check Up?

by Joe LoVerde

24 Lesser Known Symptoms of Breast Cancer

52 Dear Teacher

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

26 What is the Right Age for Braces?

62 Growing Up Online

28 How to Make Healthier Candied Apples 30 The Best Looking Jack-O-Lanterns on the Block!

38 Understanding Gestational Diabetes

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by Carolyn Jabs

family of friends

78 Life is Grand

on

by Marianna Randazzo

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44 Homework Headquarters 48 5 Ways to Increase Home Fire Safety 54

8 Tips for Easing Halloween Fear Daylight Saving Time Adjustment

64 Thinking Ahead: The High School Admissions Process

FAMILY NEEDS

60 Tickets Giveaways 80 Family Calendar

WIN!

34 OMG! I’m a Mom 72 Halloween Fun 90 Birthday Club

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Roselle Farina Hecht

OPERATIONS & FINANCES DIRECTOR Linda Bellesi

SENIOR EDITOR/ DESIGNER Gerri Friscia

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ilene Cohen Janine Mulé Cecilia Saccomagno Jodi Fatto

DESIGN Michelle Yannaco

8 Community & School News

SPECIAL SECTION

It’s In The Cards Party Services Family Classifieds Professional Directory

STAFF

91 92 94 96

S. I. LIVING 34 Birth Announcements

56 Child Sleep Tips for

Members gain access to exclusive contests and giveaways AND receive updated events and activities information.

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Nicole Farina Jeannine Cintron

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION (PMA) AWARD-WINNING MAGAZINE

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S.I. Parent magazine is published 12 times a year. All rights reserved.

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

16 Shenandoah Avenue, Suite C • SI, NY 10314 Advertising: 718.494.1932 | Info@siparent.com

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HAPPY OCTOBER! FOR THOSE WHO DON’T KNOW, IT’S NATIONAL ORTHODONTIC HEALTH MONTH. Every year, the American Association of Orthodontists recognizes October as a time to raise awareness of the benefits of Orthodontic treatment.

Some of these benefits are: - Beautiful, healthy smile is the most mends obvious benefit AAO recom ntic - Straight teeth help to effectively an Orthodo ge of 7 a y on b ti a lu a v e bite, chew & speak schedule Call today to entary - Improves appearance & self-esteem your complim am. ex new patient - Straight teeth reduce the risk of cavities & periodontal disease - Early treatment can lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth - Early treatment can correct harmful oral habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrust - Early treatment can guide jaw growth & development

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S.I. LIVING

y t i N u m Com & l o o h C S

om’s c . t n pare tab i s s . w w e : t ww hool N u o ems t c i k S c g Che nity & ollowin mu ef eekeo Com ks to th W lin bon rs Vid b for i R o e

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important School Dates: Monday, October 12 – Columbus Day (schools closed) October 7 – TACHS Paper Registration Deadline October 18 – TACHS Phone/Online Registration Deadline

halloween Candy Buy Back locations on S.i.

Trick-or-treating is fun, but cavities are definitely not. That’s why you should encourage your kids to give some of their candy away this year– for a good cause, of course. Several Staten Island dentists are “buying back” candy from generous youngsters by way of cash, coupons, and other creative currencies. The collected candy will be distributed to military support groups like Operation Gratitude. The following local dentists are participating in this year’s Candy Buy Back: Kids Dental • 4864 Arthur Kill Road • 718-356-5437 Phyllis G. Merlino • 268 Todt Hill Road • 718-761-2090 Dr. Michael D'Anna • 115 Seguine Ave • 718-948-4384

holiday Fair Event Submissions Is your school or organization hosting a holiday fair this season? The November and December issues of S.I. Parent will feature our annual list of local holiday fairs in Staten Island. The list will also be featured online at siparent.com. Please email the time, date, location and additional details of your holiday fair to jcintron@siparent.com, with the subject line “Holiday Fairs” to ensure your event is featured on our list.

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OCTOBER 2015

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d st nf ~Re ashbuGrant Irter r ~TrI Arts n Cha draise ~S I Gree ol Fun ~S Scho r Flye

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Red Ribbon Week With some of the highest drug abuse rates in the country, Staten Islanders have a very good reason to support Red Ribbon Week.

According to redribbon.org, children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those who don't, yet only a quarter of teens report having these conversations. The Red Ribbon campaign hopes to change that statistic. The organization, whose goal is to educate youth on drug prevention and spread awareness of drug-related crimes, holds will hold their annual Red Ribbon Week October 23-31. This year’s theme is “Respect Yourself. Be Drug Free.” Go to siparent.com to link to more information and to learn how you can take the Red Ribbon Pledge to be part of a drug free America.

Reading Volunteers Needed Are you looking for a fulfilling volunteer opportunity? Staten Island Mental Health Society is once again recruiting School Reading Volunteers. The program, which is entering its 56th year, assigns elementary school kids to volunteers to help them learn how to read.

Free training will be held at SIMHS headquarters, 669 Castleton Avenue, Building A in West Brighton, on Tuesday, October 6 and Thursday, October 8 from 9:30 to 11:30am.

Volunteers will be trained in a variety of interactive techniques, including reading together, telling stories, playing educational games, solving puzzles, discussing books of special interest, and writing prose and poetry, to help children learn to read and enjoy books. Interested in volunteering? Call Maryann Striffolino or Joan Gerstel at 718-442-2225.

OCTOBER 2015

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News A “Phantom” Fundraiser The world’s longest-starring “Phantom of the Opera,” Franc D’Ambrosio, will be performing at a Dinner-Show Fundraiser for the Elizabeth W. Pouch Center for Special People, on Wednesday, October 21 at the Hilton Garden Inn. The fundraiser will benefit children with developmental, intellectual, and neurological challenges who receive services from the Pouch Center, a division of the Staten Island Mental Health Society (SIMHS). The singer will perform his one-man show, “Songs from the Great White Way,” which includes selections from”“Phantom.”

An array of gifts, including theme baskets, artwork, home decor, gift certificates, and lottery tickets will be on display for the evening’s Basket Auction and raffle tickets will also be sold and drawn at the event. Tickets to the Pouch Center Dinner-Show fundraiser are $70 per person. For information and reservations, contact SIMHS Director of Volunteer Services Maryann Striffolino at 442-2225.

Trashbusters Congratulations to St. Joseph Hill Academy, winners of Borough President Oddo’s recent antilitter PSA contest! Their video, “All Ages, All Stages, Know Clean is Contagious” features park-goers from all age groups disposing of their trash the right way-- in the garbage can. The contest is part of the BP’s ongoing crusade against Staten Island’s litter problem. You can link to St. Joseph Hill Academy’s winning video at siparent.com.

SI Arts Grants Available Do you have an idea for a creative art project?

You can apply for a grant from Staten Island Arts to fund your work. There are several grants available to local artists, including the NYSCA Arts Bring Change Regrant which is intended for young artists in grades K-12. Several application seminars will be held at various locations in Staten Island and attendance is mandatory for first-time applicants. Go online to siparent.com for a list of seminar dates and to link to more information about this wonderful opportunity for Staten Island artists.

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OCTOBER 2015

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Time to “Fall Back�

The days are growing shorter and shorter, and we all need a little more sunlight to power through those sleepy early morning routines.

Don’t forget to set your clocks back an hour on Sunday, November 1, when Daylight Saving Time ends. Enjoy the extra hour of sleep! If you’re lucky enough to have kids who you let you stay in bed, that is.

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Assemblyman Michael Cusick recently announced a $1 million grant for the College of Staten Island to make state of the art upgrades to their track and field facilities. These upgrades will enable the College to host intercollegiate events and field NCAA sanctioned men’s and women’s track and field teams. The upgrades include the replacement and resurfacing of the entire track and the addition of event facilities including shot put, discus, hammer throw, long jump, triple jump and high jump to be constructed within the grass oval on the inside of the track. There will also be an expansion of the bleacher seating to accommodate an additional 500 spectators.

Santa Fail Pictures Wanted!

Have you ever taken your children to see Santa and the resulting pictures were less “ho ho ho� and more “no no no�? We want to see your epic Santa visit failures! Send us your kids’ most unusual Santa pictures and we might publish them in our upcoming holiday issue of S.I. Parent. Please email all pictures to jcintron@siparent.com with the subject line “Santa Pic Fail.�

Support SI Green Charter School Who doesn’t love Panera Bread? Stop by their Marsh Avenue location on October 13 between 4 and 8pm and a portion of the proceeds from your purchase will go to the Staten Island Green Charter School’s Junior Nets Basketball team. The team hopes to raise enough money to participate in the On Court Experience program with the Brooklyn Nets. And while you’re there, you can sign your child up for the school’s K-5 STEM program too. Patrons must present the official Panera Bread Fundraiser flyer to help the school, which can be downloaded at siparent.com.

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News Staten Island Half Marathon On your mark, get set, GO! The Staten Island Half Marathon is set for October 11 this year, just three weeks before the New York City Marathon. The race is part of the NYRR FiveBorough Series, which features a different marathon for each borough throughout the course of the year. The race will conclude at Richmond County Bank Ballpark.

Are you looking to participate but lack the experience of marathon runners? You can sign up for the Staten Island 5K, which will be occurring at the same time as the halfmarathon. Kids are welcome too! Kids 2-12 years old can race the bases of Richmond County Bank Ballpark. Kids races will take place from 10:45 to noon. Go to siparent.com to learn how you can register.

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That’s What Friends Are For Fun family-friendly events, exclusive online giveaways, big savings from local merchants, and always up-to-date seasonal happenings are just a few great reasons to become a Family of Friends member!

To start receiving the S.I. Parent weekly newsletter, just go to siparent.com/signup and fill out some basic info. It’s fast and easy. You can also sign up directly from our Facebook page by clicking on the “Sign Up” app button. We promise we won’t spam you; we’ll only send you the good stuff!

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ADVERTORIAL

The Importance of Hearing Evaluations In Children

At Audiology Island, pediatric audiologists preform comprehensive hearing assessments. An audiologic evaluation can help determine if a hearing loss exists in one or both ears at frequencies (pitches) that are critical to normal speech and language development, and if any hearing loss is conductive or sensorineural.

Both Dr. Shapiro and Dr. Fulman of Audiology Island stress that the purpose of seeing a pediatric audiologist is for an early diagnosis and early intervention. This will help your child develop strong speech and language skills without any unnecessary developmental delays.

Key Components in an Audiological Evaluation of Children

Have you ever thought of getting an audiology evaluation for your child just before they start school?

Maybe you haven’t, but do you know that there are thousands of children in the US who have hearing loss?

Hearing is critical to speech and language development, communication, learning, and literacy. As such, it is essential to have an audiology evaluation while your child is growing to avoid hearing loss in your child.

Childhood hearing loss can be due to fluid in the middle ear, congenital, delayed onset, acquired or progressive in nature. Furthermore, mild hearing loss cannot normally be identified through a routine hearing screening due to the limitations of the testing equipment – and the methodology of testing used.

Having a hearing evaluation can lessen the chances of having complications with hearing.

Why Should a Child Have a Hearing Evaluation?

A hearing evaluation is important to make sure a child is passing all their developmental milestones for hearing, language and speech.

A screening test in the hospital or pediatrician office can detect 80 to 90 percent of hearing ability of a child, but one has to understand that this type of screening test isn’t perfect to determine a hearing ability and can miss up to a moderate hearing loss.

The objectives for an audiological evaluation are:

• Assessing the reliability of the sensory system in each ear • Checking hearing sensitivity across various frequencies • Assessing the type of hearing loss (if present) • Establishing a baseline for future monitoring • Gathering important ear-related information that may be needed to start an amplification device fitting

An audiological evaluation of children can be administered at any age. At Audiology Island, children under the age of 5 are evaluated by two doctors of audiology, specializing in pediatric testing (this makes testing more accurate, effective as well as fun for your child). Dr. Fulman and Dr. Shapiro determine the presence of hearing loss in children through a series of components that are specific to each age. To learn more about pediatric testing please visit www.audiologyisland.com.

Remember, as a parent, you might suspect a hearing loss before an expert does. So take your child to a pediatric audiologist to help them enjoy an active and complete lifestyle.

To give your children the best opportunities for achieving success and help take care of their hearing before anything serious happens make sure to schedule an audiological evaluation.

AUDIOLOGY ISLAND SERVICES:

- Complete Audiological Evaluation (Adult and Pediatric) - Auditory Processing Evaluation (age 5 and older) - Auditory Processing Therapy (age 5 and older): One on One Auditory Processing Therapy, Interactive Metronome, The Listening Program (TLP) - Failed School Screening Follow-up - Hearing Aid evaluation and Fitting (Adult and Pediatric) - Ear Protection, Swim Molds and other Custom Ear Products - Balance Testing (Adult and Pediatric) - Tinnitus Evaluation and Management - Aural Rehabilitation (Adult and Pediatric – Group and Individual) - Auditory Brainstem Response Evaluation (ABR) - Otoacoustic Emissions Evaluation (OAE) - Single Sided Deafness Evaluation and Management

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Pediatric Audiologists and Children

The role of a pediatric audiologist in providing pediatric audiology rehabilitation services is considered to be more comprehensive than a regular audiologist. It is important to keep in mind that testing children is not like testing young adults, and proper equipment and special expertise are required.

Dr. Fulman, Au.D., CCC-A Director of Audiology

Dr. Shapiro, Au.D., CCC-A Director of Audiology

OCTOBER 2015

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EDUCATION

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WHEN TO HIRE A TUTOR

chool is not always easy, and some students struggle as they transition from grade to grade. As students get older, some who may have experienced smooth sailing as youngsters may find they need some extra help grasping the material as coursework becomes more complicated.

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Those who need some extra clarification and reinforcement may first turn to their parents. But parents may not be familiar with certain subjects or capable of explaining certain concepts in terms kids can understand. In such situations, tutors can prove to be valuable resources to get kids back on the right academic track. In some cases, advice and help coming from a hired professional carries more weight than if a parent tries to impart the same knowledge.

TUTORS CAN FILL VOIDS AND HELP STUDENTS GET BACK ON A SUCCESSFUL TRACK.

One-on-one attention from a tutor can benefit all types of learners. Students who discover newfound success under the guidance of a tutor may have more self-confidence in the classroom. Parents wondering if a tutor can help their children may want to consider the following indicators that students may need tutors.

Indifference to coursework: No student will be captivated by every subject he or she studies, but there should be some subjects that students find engaging. Students battling indifference toward their coursework may benefit from a dynamic tutor who can present subject matter in new ways and revive students' interest.

Consistently falling grades: Tutors may be necessary for students whose grades are gradually on the decline. First speak with your child's teachers, who may recommend tutors that specialize in certain subjects.

Poor study habits. A tutor with whom your child has a good rapport may be able to help with time management and organization, as well.

If they are able to master these skills, they will be more effective throughout their academic career.

Confusion in and out of the classroom: Some kids struggle to grasp certain concepts. If that confusion is allowed to continue, it will be impossible to build upon basic concepts and they will fall behind quite quickly. Getting additional help early can clear up the confusion and set the student on the road to success.

If you see you child is struggling with schoolwork, a tutor may make the difference between a successful school year and one that is filled with frustration. Whether they need some temporary extra help to clarify a particular concept, or an ongoing reinforcement to boost their regular instruction, getting help when needed will certainly color the way a child views learning, in general.

Low confidence: A student’s confidence can wane when his or her grades are suffering. Kids whose grades have been on the decline may feel a sense of defeat even before they take a test or work on an assignment. Tutors can help restore confidence by creating small victories that slowly build up to larger successes.

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HEALTH

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DOES YOUR CHILD NEED AN EMOTIONAL HEALTH CHECKUP?

s a parent, you know how important it is to take your child for a yearly physical examination, as well as for hearing and vision tests. But shouldn’t your child also have an emotional health checkup? Because a child’s mental health is as important as his or her physical health and can, in fact, have an impact on physical health, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a yearly emotional health screening for children up to age 21.

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Yet, for most families, mental health screenings for their children are not a priority, due to misunderstanding, stigma, and often a lack of availability. In fact, fewer than onein-five children who can benefit from treatment for an emotional or behavioral problem do not receive the services they need.

MAKE SURE TO INCLUDE A MENTAL HEALTH SCREENING WITH YOUR CHILD’S YEARLY EXAMS. The Early Recognition Screening program (ERS), sponsored by the health and substance abuse disorders start by age 14; and about 50 Staten Island Mental Health Society (SIMHS) and funded by the New percent of students ages 14 and older with a mental disorders drop out York State Office of Mental Health makes it easier for parents to assess of school. their children’s mental health and to address any problems as early as possible, with a simple questionnaire that asks about their child’s (ages “Emotional issues can affect how well a child does in school, infant to 21) behavior at home and in school. relationships with family and friends, and the ability to bounce back when faced with life’s setbacks,” explained the Society’s chief clinical The questionnaire can be obtained by calling SIMHS at 718- 442officer Libby Traynor.“Parents may find it difficult to recognize whether 2225. It can also be picked up at any of the SIMHS’s three children’s their child’s emotional development is on track. That’s why this mental health centers - the Chait Center in West Brighton, the Dr. screening program is so important. We know from experience that Kenneth Popler Children’s Center in St. George or the South Shore early identification and treatment of emotional challenges help Center in Great Kills. The confidential form can be filled out at the center children and teens recover so they can succeed in school and develop or at home. positive social relationships at home and in the community.

The questionnaire asks 15 to 20 questions (depending on the age) “Children who have the ability to manage their emotions are more pertaining to the child’s behavior. After it is returned to the SIMHS, a able to focus on learning, and when they do well in school, they feel member of the agency’s professional clinical staff will be able to better about themselves,” said Ms. Traynor.“On the other hand, children interpret whether the child has emotional needs that require more inwho are unable to handle their emotions usually cannot focus on their depth attention. If so, the clinician can provide the family with access to studies and have negative feelings about themselves, which can lead to evidence-based mental health counseling and support systems that more serious emotional/behavioral problems.” will help improve the quality of the child’s daily functioning at home and in school.

Children with untreated mental illnesses are also at risk for experimentation with drugs and/or alcohol, she added, noting that Staten According to national data, one-in-five children and teens in the U.S. Island has the highest rate of alcohol, marijuana and prescription drug suffers from a mental health disorder that causes significant problems abuse among preteens and teens in New York City and State. at home, at school, and with peers; half of all lifetime cases of mental

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HEALTH

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LESSER-KNOWN SYMPTOMS OF BREAST CANCER

ublic perception that breast cancer is only identified by lumps detected through self-examination or routine mammography may prevent thousands of women from receiving an early diagnosis and the care they need. Although lumps are the most common symptom associated with the disease, women should recognize that breast cancer can produce additional symptoms.

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Susan G. Komen for the Cure, one of the premier organizations for breast cancer research, advocacy and treatment, advises that the warning signs for breast cancer are not the same for all women (or men). Various changes in the breast and body can occur, including the following conditions.

• Breast-size changes: Many left and right breasts are not completely LUMPS IN THE BREAST ARE NOT THE ONLY POTENTIAL INDICATORS OF BREAST CANCER. symmetrical, and women familiar with their bodies know that one ignored. Breast pain that does not go away and seems to involve one breast is often slightly larger than the other. However, breast-size area of the breast should be checked. changes that occur out of the blue may be indicative of a medical problem.

• Fatigue: General cancer symptoms can include unusual fatigue and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms should not be left • Skin rash or redness: Women who are breastfeeding can unchecked. experience a rash on the breasts from an infection of breast tissue. But those who are not breastfeeding should be evaluated by a doctor if One of the best things women and men can do is to familiarize redness, irritation or rash appears. themselves with their bodies so they will be more capable of pinpointing any irregularities that may develop. Individuals can • Nipple changes: Nipple discharge that starts suddenly and is not routinely look at their breasts and inspect for subtle changes. But associated with breastfeeding can be indicative of cancer. Other remember that hormonal breast changes occur during the menstrual changes to the nipples, such as pulling in of the nipple (inversion) or cycle, so it's best to be familiar with how breasts look and feel both itchy, scaling skin on the nipple, should be brought to the attention of during and after menstruation. a doctor.

• Changes to the skin: Dimpling of the skin, peeling, flaking, or scaling skin can be a cause for concern as well.

• Lumps elsewhere: Cancerous tumors may not only be felt in the breasts. Breast cancer can spread to the lymph nodes around the breasts, and lumps may be felt under the arms.

• Unexplained pain: The Mayo Clinic advises that less than 10 percent of people diagnosed with breast cancer report pain as a symptom. But unexplained pain in an area of the breast should not be

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>>Did you know?

Breast cancer can affect both men and women and is one of the most common forms of cancer. Thanks to increased awareness and screenings, many cases of breast cancer are diagnosed early and treated successfully. BreastCancer.org says that invasive ductal carcinoma, or IDC, is the most common form of breast cancer, accounting for about 80 percent of all breast cancers. The American Cancer Society says that, although IDC can affect women of any age, it is most common among women age 55 or older. The good news is that this type of cancer is highly curable, provided it has not spread outside of the ducts to other breast tissue. Survival rates for any breast cancers diagnosed in the early stages are excellent.

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25

HEALTH

>>>

WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE FOR BRACES?

ental braces have been used for decades to correct various alignment and spacing issues in the teeth. Braces can be crucial to the future of one's oral health and prevent serious issues down the line.

D

Roughly 25 percent of the people in North America who get braces are adults. But braces still are geared toward young people and getting them on the road to straight and properly aligned teeth early on.

Braces correct a number of problems, including realigning the jaw and alleviating overcrowding of teeth. Crooked teeth can trap food and debris between them, making it harder to floss and brush. Wearing SEVERITY OF OVERCROWDING AS WELL AS BITE braces also corrects the bite. If ISSUES WILL DICTATE WHEN A CHILD SHOULD GET BRACES. teeth or jaws are not aligned correctly, it can lead to difficulty between ages nine and 14. This is often a less expensive approach chewing food or create jaw muscle pain. Braces also may boost because braces need only be applied and removed once. self-confidence because they can remedy appearance issues that may prove embarrassing.

A number of studies have shown that, for common problems alleviated with orthodontic work, youngsters are better off waiting Parents eager to get their children on the road to straighter until all of their permanent teeth have come in. Antonio Secchi, a teeth may wonder when is the right time to get their kids braces. professor of orthodontics at the University of Pennsylvania, notes Many kids are getting braces earlier and earlier, but when to get that if parents choose to treat crooked teeth too early, the child braces typically depends on the child and the shape of his or her may need another phase of intervention a few years down teeth. the road.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that Some problems, like crossbites, overbites or severe children see an orthodontist for an evaluation by age seven. The overcrowding, warrant early intervention. Scheduling an best time for braces will be when the orthodontist and parents orthodontic visit early on means children can get the care they collectively decide it's time to correct the misalignment of a child's need when they need it. The orthodontist will be able to monitor teeth. how teeth are growing in and map out the best treatment plan for all.

Some orthodontists prefer a two-stage approach to orthodontic treatment. They may use a dental appliance or a Braces can help fix an imperfect smile and alleviate oral health preliminary amount of braces to begin moving the teeth while a concerns. Parents should speak to a dentist or make an child still has most of his primary teeth. The second stage begins appointment with an orthodontist to evaluate their children's when all the permanent teeth are in. The thought is to shorten the treatment needs overall duration of treatment.

Other orthodontists follow the traditional approach of putting on braces once all the primary teeth have fallen out. This occurs

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27

SEASONAL TREATS

>>>

HOW TO MAKE HEALTHIER CANDIED APPLES

omemade candied apples are a fixture come Halloween.

Sweet, delectable and very easy to make, these apples are a staple at parties and may even be distributed to trick-or-treaters. As anyone who has bit into a sticky-sweet candied apple can attest, although delicious, these apples are not exactly a healthy snack. Yet, with a few, easy modifications, it's possible to improve the nutritional value of candied apples.

H

With ingredients like caramel, marshmallow, chocolate fudge, and sugar, it's easy to see how candied apples do not embody a healthy treat, despite an apple being underneath all those candy adornments. Try these ideas to increase the nutritional value of this beloved treat. · Make your own caramel using TRADITIONAL CANDIED APPLE RECIPES ARE FULL OF SUGAR. EXPERIMENT WITH MORE condensed milk, brown sugar or NUTRITIOUS INGREDIENTS TO CREATE HEALTHIER APPLES THAT STILL BOAST A LOT OF FLAVOR. maple syrup, and butter. By chocolate hazelnut spread on the apples and sprinkle with granola for controlling the ingredients, you can avoid extra sugar and any additives crunch. in commercially sold caramel toppings. · Use honey for the outer coating of the apple.Then roll it in chopped almonds or granola.

· Drizzle the apples with your sugary concoction rather than dipping them to cut down on the sugar. This still provides much flavor but does so with a lot less sugar.

· Coat apples with dark chocolate, which contains less sugar than milk chocolate and is packed with antioxidants. Sprinkle with dried cranberries and chopped walnuts.

· Dip apples in melted cheese, like brie or gouda. Sprinkle with bacon bits for a sweet and salty combination.

· Substitute actual cinnamon for melted cinnamon candies in recipes. Mix powdered cinnamon with a light corn syrup or a natural sweetener like maple syrup and then dip the apples to coat.

Experiment with your own flavors. Making your own candied apples, rather than purchasing them from stores, enables you to control the ingredients and how much actual candy goes into the recipe.

· Swirl homemade raspberry jam with an all-natural peanut butter or sunflower seed butter and spread it on the apples for a gourmet take on peanut butter and jelly. · Hazelnut spreads are all the rage right now. Use your favorite

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Check out our Halloween Fun Guide Starting on Page 72

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29

HALLOWEEN

>>> THE BEST-

LOOKING JACK-O'LANTERNS ON THE BLOCK

1. Pick the prettiest. Large or small, you are looking for sturdy stems, no bruises, and pumpkins that sit pretty. Place the pumpkin on a counter and stoop down to see how it looks at eye level before you buy.

Don't carry them home by the stems because they break easily.

4. Use the proper tools. The best devices for carving jack O'lanterns don't live in your kitchen drawers. Knives slip and spoons bend, so resist the urge to dip into your cutlery and instead purchase sturdy metal pumpkin scoops and kid-friendly carving saws you can use every year.

2. Timing is everything. The Internet is thick with tips for preserving pumpkins longer. Don't try them. Simply carve your pumpkins 3-5 days before Halloween for a still-standing-tall guarantee.

5. Bigger is better. Enlarge designs for larger pumpkins. Use your home printer or stop by the local copy shop.

3. Make cleanup a snap. The secret weapon for easy pumpkincarving cleanup is probably out in your garage or shed. It's a basic plastic tarp. Spread this time-saving savior inside on a cool day or outside on a warm day to contain your carving enthusiasm.

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6. Start at the top. For large pumpkins, make the opening big enough for your hand and cut it at a 45-degree angle so the top will nest in place, instead of falling through.

7. Scrape, don't dig. Don't thin the walls of your pumpkin when scooping out the guts, so it will stay sturdy longer.

8. Draw it first. Freehand designs are cute and classic and young children love them. Use a medium-point washable marker to draw your design and then wipe away any remaining marks after carving.

9. Slit the paper. If you prefer to transfer a design and the pattern won't wrap flat around your pumpkin, encourage it to cling by cutting a few up-and-down slits on the paper with an Xacto-knife prior to carving.* 10. Poke hole-patterns. If you've always wanted to attempt a tricky pattern, attach the design to your pumpkin with blue painter's tape and poke shallow holes along the lines, just through the pumpkin's skin with a thumbtack, skinny nail or hat pin. Then connect the dots with your carving saw to achieve whatever fancy look you like.* 11. Get your hand in there. Push carved pieces out from the inside with a finger. Go over delicate edges with a filet knife if pieces are stuck to avoid tearing pumpkin skin.* 12. Discard pulp outdoors. Do not put pulp into your garbage disposal. The place for pumpkin guts is your compost or yard clippings pile.

Remove seeds for roasting and gently shake pulp off your plastic tarp before hosing it off and hanging it out to dry.

STATEN ISLAND PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Specializing in Dentistry & Orthodontics for Children, Adolescents & Patients with Special Needs INVISALIGN AVAILABLE • DIGITAL X-RAYS Deborah Gries, D.M.D., M.S.

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13. Keep jacks cool. In warm weather, keep carved pumpkins cool during the day. For longerlasting displays, avoid direct sunlight. Display them at night and with battery-powered candles to avoid interior damage and fire hazards. * Techniques for parents only, not young children.

How To Roast Perfect Pumpkin Seeds As everyone is carving, offer a large bowl or pot for the pumpkin pulp. When the bowl is half full, loosen the seeds with your hands and fill pot to the three-quarters mark with water. The seeds will rise to the top. Squeeze them through your fingers to remove any clinging pulp as you transfer them to a colander. Then spread them on paper towels and pat dry. Set your oven for 325 degrees and transfer seeds to cookie sheets in single layers.

Sprinkle each pan of seeds with one or two teaspoons of olive oil and a few generous shakes of salt. Turn seeds with spatula every eight minutes until crispy on the outside and golden on the inside. Do not let seeds turn brown. Remove from oven, cool, and enjoy. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two months. If you have more seeds than you will eat, make pumpkin seed brittle or pumpkin seed trail mix to bring to Halloween parties as hostess gifts.

By Christina Katz, an author, journalist and writing coach who enjoys having family fun without spending hours on clean up. Her favorite parts of the jack-o'-lantern carving process are picking out the perfect pumpkins and taking pictures of the results.

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ASK THE DOCTOR Sponsored by

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Screening for breast cancer in women of average risk can include a combination of breast self-exams (BSE), clinical breast exams (CBE), and mammography. These three can complement each other, improving your chances of catching cancer early. Although BSE is helpful, its role in detecting cancer early is limited. Here are descriptions of each: • Breast self-exam (BSE). The American Cancer Society (ACS) says BSEs are an option for women 20 and older as a means of familiarizing themselves with their breasts so they can notice changes more easily. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) does not recommend BSEs because evidence suggests that BSEs do not lower the risk for death from breast cancer. Talking with your doctor about the benefits and limitations can help you decide if you should start performing BSEs. • Clinical breast exam (CBE). The ACS recommends CBEs at least every three years for all women in their 20s and 30s and annual CBEs for women 40 and older. The USPSTF, however, believes there is not enough evidence to assess the value of CBEs for women 40 and older. Women should talk with their doctor about their personal risk factors and make a decision about whether they should have a CBE.

• Mammography. A mammogram is a special kind of X-ray used to help find breast tumors before symptoms of cancer appear. During the test, your breast is placed between two metal or plastic plates that flatten and spread the tissue. Low levels of radiation are used to take a picture of the inside of your breast. Some facilities have digital mammography, which displays results on a computer, rather than on film. The test can be uncomfortable, but it only lasts a few moments. If you're still getting your period, try to schedule your mammogram for a time after your period. Menstruation can cause breast tenderness, which may make you more uncomfortable during the test.

The benefits and limitations of mammography vary based on factors like age and personal risk. Experts have different recommendations for mammography.

Currently, the USPSTF recommends screening every two years for women ages 50 to 74. The ACS recommends yearly screening for all women ages 40 and older.

Women should talk with their doctor about their personal risk factors before making a decision about when to start getting mammograms or how often they should get them, as well as what other tests may be warranted.

A mammogram detects tumors and calcium deposits in the breast. Most calcium deposits are benign (not cancer) but a cluster of very tiny specks of calcium, called microcalcifications, can be an early sign of breast cancer. If your mammogram shows anything abnormal, you may need more tests.

Although a mammogram is the best way to find breast cancer early, it may not always detect cancer. And sometimes a mammogram may detect an abnormality that turns out not to be cancer, called a false positive. Some people worry about the radiation. But the radiation levels are about the same as those you'd be exposed to during a flight from New York to California.

For some women with dense breast tissue, ultrasound may be a useful supplement to mammography.

Early detection and treatment is the best strategy for a better cancer outcome.

Schedule your mammogram at RUMC: Call 718-818-3280. Kathy Giovinazzo is Director of Radiology at Richmond University Medical Center.

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Glow Bug Cloth Diapers are an affordable and fashionable way to keep your baby dry. Their diapers are sold only in packages, as they believe buying individual cloth diapers just to “try them out,” is actually counterproductive and can get parents started on the wrong foot with their clothdiapering journey. Choose from more than 100 diaper patterns! Also available are bamboo liners and wipes, and a handy diaper sprayer for easy clean up at www.glowbugclothdiapers.com.

IS CLOTH DIAPERING RIGHT FOR YOU?

Today’s eco-conscious mom knows it’s not always easy to find baby products that match her conservational ways, but cloth diapering is a great place to start.

Cloth diapering has become increasingly popular as more and more parents grow concerned by the undeniable damage disposable diapers are causing to the environment. According to realdiapers.org, it is estimated that 27.4 billion disposable diapers are consumed every year in the U.S. It takes around 250-500 years to dispose of these diapers, which currently represent approximately 4% of all solid waste in our landfills.

The environmentally-friendly factor aside, there are many good reasons to choose cloth diapering. The annual cost of utilizing cloth diapers is about $225 versus the hefty $750 yearly price tag on disposable diapers. Cloth diapers are also a safer, chemical-free alternative to their disposable counterparts. Disposable diapers are known to contain harsh chemicals such as Dioxin, TBT, and sodium polyacrylate.

Although the diapers contain only small amounts of these chemicals, many parents would rather not take chances exposing their children to known carcinogens and toxic pollutants.

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EVER TALK ABOUT “IT?” VAGINAL DRYNESS, ITCHING OR BURNING?

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PREGNANCY

>>>

UNDERSTANDING GESTATIONAL DIABETES

any people are familiar with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, both of which are characterized by high blood glucose levels that can lead to additional health problems. Insulin injections, dietary changes, exercise, and medication may be needed to correct the ratio of sugar to insulin in the body.

M

Another common form of diabetes may not be as well known as the others but can be a concern for expecting parents. Gestational diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association, refers to the appearance of high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Women who have never before been diagnosed with diabetes can experience elevated sugar levels while carrying a child. A 2014 analysis by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates GESTATIONAL DIABETES AFFECTS UP TO NINE PERCENT OF PREGNANT WOMEN IN THE U.S. the prevalence of gestational diabetes can be as high as 9 percent develop, the extra energy is stored as fat. An overweight baby may have among pregnant women in the United States. difficulty exiting the birth canal, and a C-section may be necessary.

Newborns with very low blood glucose levels at birth due to high While doctors are not completely certain why gestational diabetes insulin production are at a greater risk for breathing problems. Some occurs, the National Institutes of Health notes that some doctors babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes develop type 2 suspect pregnancy hormones produced in the placenta block diabetes later in life. naturally-occurring insulin from working effectively. When this occurs, glucose levels can spike. This problem is called insulin resistance, and Gestational diabetes also can affect the mother, who is at greater risk women may need three times as much insulin at this time. Blood sugar for high blood pressure and preeclampsia, a serious complication of usually returns to normal after delivery, but treatment may be pregnancy. Risk of diabetes in subsequent pregnancies or later in life necessary during pregnancy. also is greater among women who have had gestational diabetes.

Certain women are at a higher risk of developing gestational Symptoms of gestational diabetes are not always noticeable. diabetes than others. These include women older than 25 and those Because gestational diabetes can occur midway through a pregnancy, with a family history of diabetes. Excess weight or diabetes during a women are usually advised to take an oral glucose tolerance test previous pregnancy also increases risk. Women who have delivered between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy to screen for diabetes. babies who weighed more than 9 pounds also have an elevated If diabetes is detected, a strict diet that's low in fat and sugar will be chance of gestational diabetes. advised. Carbohydrates should be consumed through complex grains and vegetables. If dietary changes do not work, diabetes medication or Although many women deliver healthy babies while dealing with insulin therapy may be prescribed. gestational diabetes, poorly controlled gestational diabetes can hurt the unborn child. The ADA says extra blood glucose goes through the Women concerned about gestational diabetes should speak with placenta, giving the baby high blood glucose levels and causing the their obstetricians or midwives about their potential risk, as these baby's pancreas to make extra insulin to get rid of the blood glucose. medical professionals may be able to test earlier for gestational Since the baby is getting more energy than it needs to grow and diabetes or begin on healthcare regimens to help prevent high blood OCTOBER 2015 sugar levels.

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League Play

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GOOD SPORTS

by Joe LoVerde

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On Your Marks, Get Set, Go! Staten Island athletes are expected to be off and running with a vengeance in the not too distant future, as the long-awaited opening of the state-of-the-art indoor track and field facility at Ocean Breeze Park is expected to take place this month.

Located on Father Capodanno Boulevard between Sand Lane and Seaview Avenue, on the site of the former East Shore Senior Little League complex, construction first began with the ground-breaking in July 2010 on what is sure to be a jewel among New York City’s athletic arenas. At a cost of nearly $100 million, funded by the City's PlaNYC initiative, the completion took longer than expected — partly because it’s located smack in the middle of where Hurricane Sandy pounded the borough in the fall of 2012.

There is already a full schedule of events set to take place at the facility, starting with the New York City Parks Citywide Track and Field Festival on Oct. 24. The complex will really get busy starting in December, with events on tap every weekend through to the spring. It is sure to be the place where all of the top track and field high school and collegiate athletes will relish the opportunity to compete.

“It’s exciting,” said Jim Hughes, a member of the board of directors for Staten Island Track Running and Community (SITRAC), the group that sold borough and city officials on the need for the facility and has been instrumental in the planning. “I’m sure the demand will be great, and it remains to be seen how the scheduling will be worked out. But it will be great not to have to train in hallways of a building when there is snow on the ground, and we’ll be able to hold practices for field events indoors.”

The center, encompassing 135,000 square feet, consists of an elitelevel hydraulically banked competition track and a section to hold long jump and shot put competition, as well as fitness and cardio rooms. Its parking lot has been built to hold as many as 160 vehicles.

The facility is sure to be in high demand to many groups, including some from outside of Staten Island. The parks department “started to invite outsiders to use it,” Hughes said, noting that even Villanova University in Philadelphia has several events on the schedule.

“We won’t know until it’s up and running, but there will probably be more availability around April,” once the indoor season ends and outdoor season begins, Hughes said.

Hughes was among those who toured the building at the start of the summer to check out the progress. “They were just starting to put down the Mondo surface on the track,” Hughes said, referring to the special rubberized track floor that is supposed to produce faster running times.

He noted that spectators will be able to view all of the action from

any bleacher seat, unlike at the Fort Washington Avenue Armory in Manhattan, where many indoor events in the city take place. “At the Armory, some seats are blocked from viewing a part of the track,” he said.

The complex is cutting-edge in many ways, including sustainability. It’s been built with recycled materials and includes features that will conserve energy and water, including geothermal heating and cooling, using storm water to recharge surrounding wetlands, and a “cool” roof (treated with a specialized coating material that keeps out the heat).

The location, by the ocean, also allows the building to utilize the cool breezes to provide natural ventilation throughout most of the year, and skylights are expected to allow natural daylight to eliminate the need for artificial lighting a good portion of the time.

All in all, Hughes expects it to be a shot in the arm for the sport in which he once competed and has been coaching at Moore Catholic HS and St. Clare’s Church since 1977.

“I’m sure there will be plenty of excitement and people wanting to see what it’s all about,” he said.

There is little information available about the availability to the public, and with meets scheduled every weekend from December through March the facility will undoubtedly not be available for community use on those dates.

For updates and more information about how to make use of the facility and the events scheduled to take place there, go to the Parks Department website at w w w. n y c g o v p a r k s . o r g / p a r k features/ocean-breeze-park/planyc and the SITRAC website at www.statenislandtrac.org.

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

Read Good Sports on siparent.com Click on “Columns”

OCTOBER 2015

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43

EDUCATION

>>>

HOMEWORK HEADQUARTERS: 6 Study Stations That Spell School Year Success

omework may not be your child’s favorite part of the school year, but it’s no secret that completing those after-school assignments can lead to academic success. Help the students in your household develop good study habits and tackle their homework with confidence by creating at least one of these wellstocked study stations within your home.

H

1. A Desk in the Bedroom. This option is ideal for students who need a designated work space away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the family. While a bedroom desk may not be the best choice for students who need homework help or frequent reminders to stay on task, it works well for both older students and self-motivated learners. Consider a high loft bed with a desk underneath when floor space is at a premium.

THE RIGHT STUDY STATION CAN MAKE HOMEWORK TIME A LOT EASIER FOR YOUR CHILD.

2. A Family Work Zone. Some families designate an entire room in their house as a family work zone, and equip the space with computers and printers, as well as a table or desk for writing and big, comfy chairs for reading and studying. Art and craft supplies are often found here too, since these rooms are designed with both creativity and productivity in mind.

4. A Multi-Purpose Office. Mom or Dad’s home office can easily double as your family’s homework headquarters. Standard office supplies will already be on hand, and it is a room that has already been designed with work in mind. For younger students, clear a space on the desk or tuck a small table and chair into a corner of the room so they can work on their assignments while you work on yours.

Kids who like company while doing homework thrive in this kind of environment, since siblings are often close by working on projects of their own. Loft spaces, basements, attics and spare bedrooms all lend themselves to becoming a family work zone with the right furniture and accessories.

To make this arrangement work with older students, consider assigning designated office hours so every member of the family knows when he or she can expect to use the space.

3. A Central Command Center. Love the idea of a family work zone, but don’t have the space? A small desk in the kitchen or family room can serve as a work space for the whole family too, especially when there are cabinets for storage either above or below. Think about where you keep items like calendars, school papers and the family computer in your home. You probably already have a central command center of sorts; stash some scissors, pens, paper and glue sticks there, and you have a simple study station ready to go.

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5. A Rolling Homework Cart. Need some flexibility in your life? Keep in mind that a homework headquarters doesn’t have to be stationary.

Invest in a rolling homework cart and students can do homework almost anywhere in the house. Notebooks, file folders, writing supplies, paper and even laptops and printers can be stored on these carts, especially if you invest in one with at least three shelves. And with this option, you enjoy the added bonus of easy cleanup and out-of-the-way storage, since the cart can be rolled right back into an inconspicuous closet or alcove once homework is completed.

6. The Kitchen Table. Despite objections from parents, the kitchen table remains a popular homework spot among kids. There’s just something so appealing (and convenient) about spreading your books

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45

and papers across the very surface where your family eats dinner every evening. If this is the study space your kids insist on using, keep it clutter-free by insisting that supplies are stored elsewhere and try to limit other household distractions during homework hours.

Creating a designated study space within your home, whether simple or elaborate, sends the message that your family values both homework and education. It’s one of the easiest – but most important – things you can do to help your children achieve school year success.

By Alyssa Chirco, who writes about parenting and family life for publications across the country. Despite her best efforts, her children still prefer to do their homework at the kitchen table every evening.

The Well-Stocked Study Space What kinds of supplies should you keep on hand so students can complete their homework quickly and efficiently? At the very least, try to stock your study space with the following:

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47

SAFETY

>>>

FIVE WAYS TO INCREASE HOME FIRE SAFETY

n average of seven Americans die each week as a result of house fires.

Most fires occur in residential buildings between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., when occupants are most likely to be asleep. Your first line of defense is fire preparedness.

Here's five things you can do to increase your chance of survival in a fire:

A

· Install smoke alarms on every story of your home and outside sleeping areas. Be sure to test them monthly, clean them every six months and replace batteries in spring and fall. Having working fire alarms can cut your chance of dying in a fire in half! · Have a fire escape plan for your family and practice it. A small fire can spread rapidly - you may only have minutes or seconds to escape.

THIS YEAR'S FIRE PREVENTION WEEK (OCT 4-10) THEME IS: When going over the details of your HEAR THE BEEP WHERE YOU SLEEP. EVERY BEDROOM NEEDS A WORKING SMOKE ALARM! escape plan, check windows and doors to ensure all open easily. Know your local emergency number (911). Never stop to gather belongings or reenter a home after safely outside. · When renovating, consider using fire-rated, noncombustible products. Your choice of insulation, for example, can be vital. Stone wool insulation, like that produced by Roxul, resists temperatures up to approximately 2,150 F. When directly exposed to fire, it will not give off gas, contribute to toxic smoke or promote flames. Fire-resistant building materials can give you extra time to escape when seconds count. · Purchase a multi-use fire ladder for each bedroom in your home and practice using it. A fire ladder may be your only escape option if flames block critical exits. · Place fire extinguishers on every level of your home, especially in high-risk areas like the kitchen, near fireplaces and in the garage. Use only for small, contained fires that are not spreading rapidly. Know how to operate your extinguisher before an emergency occurs using the PASS method: Pull pin, Aim low, Squeeze lever and Sweep from side to side. The safest option is always to evacuate your home and call for help.

Fire prevention measures are a serious matter in every home. Find out how to keep your home and family safe at nfpa.org or improve your fire safety knowledge by visiting the Roxul website.

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49

COVER STORY

THE CAKE SMASH CRAZE M

ost children are told not to play with their food from the minute they’re old enough to start feeding themselves.

But a fairly new trend on the first birthday scene has little ones doing quite the opposite. A smash cake is a miniature cake, separate from the actual birthday cake, into which the birthday boy or girl may dig, or “smash,” with reckless abandon. The result is (hopefully) several hilarious, picture-perfect minutes of the birthday baby elbow-, face-, even shouldersdeep in yummy frosting.

The cake smash craze first emerged about a decade ago, but its popularity has gained momentum rapidly over the past few years. The ability to easily share pictures, via social media, with endless friends and family members in a single click has caused a major surge in the demand for increasingly camera-ready moments – especially for the proud parent crowd.

It’s really no surprise the cake smash craze has been instated by so many families as a first birthday tradition. A child’s first taste of a sugary-sweet birthday cake is bound to get a little messy; you might as well embrace it! So do you think your little one can wreck a cake like a pro? Here are a few things to consider.

The Mess is a Must

A messy baby equals cake smash success. In fact, the messier the baby, the better. With any luck, your child will end up wearing more cake than he’s eaten.

As such, you need to be prepared for the disaster.

Weather permitting, an outdoor party will provide for the easiest cleanup. If you choose to have the party indoors, be sure to spread an old sheet or table cloth on the floor to catch anything that goes overboard.

If the party is not in your home, remember to bring a change of clothes and a package (yes, a whole package) of baby wipes. You’re going to need them.

If you’d rather not ruin the special birthday outfit, simply strip the baby down to his diaper for cake time. Don’t even bother with a bib, unless it matches your party theme and will make for a cuter picture.

Be selective with your choice of frosting. Dark colors like blue, black, and red will be very hard to clean and may stain your child’s skin for a day or two.

Lighter colors like yellow or light pink are less likely to remain on skin and clothes.

Not just your child’s clothes, but your own clothes too! Or did you think someone else was going to wipe down your sticky, frosting-covered child?

Be prepared for a mess, but not so prepared that you ruin the moment. The cake smash experience is proof that life’s sweetest moments are sometimes a little messy.

To Bake or Not to Bake?

When it comes to birthday cake, the possibilities seem endless. Smash cakes are no different. Party planning can be stressful, so you might want to order from a local bakery or cake designer to save yourself the added baking responsibilities. When you purchase the main birthday cake, ask if a smaller cake can be made just for the little guest of honor.

If the party has a particular theme, the smash cake can match the theme. It can be detailed and elaborate, or simple and sweet. As its name indicates, it’s going to end up smashed either way! But you’ll still want a few pre-smashing pictures, so take that into consideration when selecting your cake.

While the child is certainly not going to eat the whole cake, some parents

might be concerned about the amount of sugar or artificial ingredients involved.

Feel free to ask the bakery if there are healthier options, or you can also research recipes that use applesauce, bananas, or other natural substitutions in place of sugar. Dye-free frosting can be easily made using fruit or vegetable juice (check Pinterest for some good ideas).

There are plenty of ways to replace unhealthy ingredients without sacrificing the taste or look of the cake.

When it’s finally cake time, be sure to serve it at room temperature, not straight from the refrigerator. This will make for a softer, more pliable (read: smashable) cake.

By Jeannine Cintron, a Staten Island mom of two who really, really wanted a piece of cake after writing this article. www.highchairsandheadaches.com

Thomas Wilkinson, age 1 of Great Kills, enjoying his yummy first birthday cake!

GET THE PICTURE

Photo credit: Erin Mangan

This is a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity, so don’t just leave it up to your friends to snap a few good shots with their smart phones and then tag you on Facebook. You definitely want to go pro on this one. Hiring a professional photographer to capture all the chaotic fun of the smash cake will ensure it was worth every adorably messy moment.

With the rising popularity of the cake smash, many photographers have begun to offer special cake smash photo sessions. The pictures are taken a few weeks before the child’s first birthday and often appear on the invitations and thank you cards. As an extension of the cake smash trend, photographers may also include the post-cake bath shots, where the freshly-washed baby is posing inside an oldfashioned water basin or tub.

Pictures taken during the party should be relaxed and fun. Asking the birthday boy or girl to smile or look at the camera could distract from the cake-smashing and make the pictures – and experience – a lot less fun. At least wait until the cake’s been destroyed to start begging her to say cheese!

The smash cake can become an endearing new tradition for your family, one that you’ll remember for years to come. You’ll especially enjoy sharing the pictures with your children once they are old enough to really appreciate them. But kids only get one first birthday and it arrives more quickly than you realize, so don’t waste any time. Go book your photographer, order your cake, and then tell your little one to smash away!

FIND A LIST OF PROFESSIONAL STATEN ISLAND PHOTOGRAPHERS ON WWW.SIPARENT.COM. CLICK ON “PHOTOGRAPHY.”

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DEAR TEACHER

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Standards Do Not Limit Learning

Question: How is it possible to bring out every child's learning potential when there is the trend to standardize schooling across this country? – Concerned Answer: You are probably thinking about Common Core -- the new curriculum standards in English language arts/literacy and math that most states have adopted. It is certainly clear that these standards do list what children should learn in these areas. However, schools and teachers are able to go beyond this and add additional content.

Do not worry about these standards limiting children's learning potential.

They place a big emphasis on critical thinking rather than repetition and rote learning. And with current technology, there is a wealth of opportunity for children to explore personal interests.

Parental Involvement in Homework

Question: How can I best help my children learn to handle their homework? How much should parents be involved? – Wondering Answer: Whether you like it or not, you will have to play a role in helping your children handle homework. The sooner you put them on the path to handling homework by themselves, the happier you both will be. Check to see if you are doing what is necessary to make your children responsible for their homework. This is a parents' checklist: --Teach your young children how to use an assignment pad to write down what each day's homework is.

--Emphasize reading and rereading directions before starting each assignment so your children will know what to do.

--Show your children how to handle difficult assignments by studying similar work in textbooks and class worksheets.

--Provide help only when it is requested, and they have really tried to do the work.

--Set an agreed-on time to start homework.

Have you ever thought of using a homework contract with your children?

Visit our dearteacher.com website, and you will find one to download in Skill Builders under “Study Skills.”

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Question: My third-grade son has ADHD and is currently being tested to see if he qualifies for some school accommodations. We will be having a meeting with the school in a few weeks. However, I would like to know what the difference is between a 504 Plan and an IEP (Individual Education Plan)?

Which would be best for my son? -- Concerned Answer: You have asked a very common question. You are now on the road to obtaining answers from your school district. The plan that is best for your son depends on how much the ADHD affects his school work. Do keep in mind that the results could always come back that your son does not need either a 504 Plan or an IEP. Parents need to know that children who are identified under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) are eligible for IEPs; however, children who are identified under the 504 Plan are not eligible for an IEP. Both the 504 Plan and the IEP are created by an educational team. Both plans can work well to serve students with ADHD. Both protect the rights of

students with the disability and ensure that they will be learning in the least restrictive environment.

However, the 504 Plan and the IEP have unique differences.

--The 504 comes under Section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Children are eligible if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits at least one major life activity. It does not need to have an educational impact.

--Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) serves children with disabilities through an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). To qualify, a student needs more than just accommodations, they need services related to their disability.

--The 504 Plan is a shorter process and easier to get than an IEP. The plan will follow the student after he or she leaves high school.

--An IEP is a longer process that takes more time for students to become eligible has some stigma attached and ends with high-school graduation.

--Children under a 504 Plan are only eligible to receive accommodations. Those under an IEP receive accommodations plus a wide range of services.

Child not Completing Classwork

Question: My daughter, a fourth-grader, is having a tough time getting her assignments completed in class. The teacher says she does not stay focused. Every night she has her classwork to complete along with her homework. She is always up past 10 every evening -- getting everything completed. How can we handle this problem? – Worried Answer: First, you need to talk with her teacher to find out what can be done to help your child focus better in the classroom so that she can get more of her classwork completed. Perhaps your daughter needs to sit in a study carrel or in the front of the room to improve her concentration.

If the teacher cannot find ways to help her, appropriate school personnel should be brought in to observe the child and see what measures need to be initiated -- including a behavior plan.

At home, you also need to observe the child doing homework to see if you can detect and resolve problems that may be interfering with her focus on school work. And because she is young, cut off her homework time at 40 minutes. Be sure to mention this to the teacher.

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

OCTOBER 2015

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53

HALLOWEEN

>>>

8 TIPS FOR EASING HALLOWEEN FEAR

y father-in-law’s neighborhood goes all out for Halloween. Our daughter is easily startled and has a long list of fears, so we held off on taking her there until she was school-age. We focused on community celebrations during daylight hours instead.

M

We finally thought she was old enough to handle trick-or-treating in Grandpa’s neighborhood when she was ten. We parked at her grandfather’s house and planned on walking up and down the streets in his subdivision. She kept it together at homes with spooky music playing, real coffins in the yard and people posing as zombies.

Then we hit a home with a Halloween themed doorbell. Instead of the typical chime, it cackled like a witch when she pressed it. She ALTHOUGH THE THRILLS AND CHILLS ARE MEANT TO BE ALL IN GOOD FUN, HALLOWEEN CAN screamed, burst into tears and BE AN UPSETTING TIME FOR YOUNG CHILDREN WHO SCARE EASILY. climbed me in fear for her life. The Trick-or-treat indoors. Malls often have trick-or-treating events. elderly couple who came to the door felt horrible that she was so Children go from store to store collecting candy. This is safer and often frightened. My husband had to go get the car because she was less scary than going to homes. Our library hosts a Halloween party. absolutely terrified. We’d only traveled one street over.

They start off reading Halloween themed books and then trick-or-treat as a group to the various desks in the library.

My daughter’s fear is on the extreme side, but Halloween is scary for lots of children. Here are some tips to help kids have fun on Halloween Participate in festivals instead of going door to door. We look for without fear. family-friendly, non-spooky events leading up to the big day. Our daughter loads up on candy and gets to show off her costume at these Talk about the scary stuff. Let your child know that some people events, so she doesn’t feel deprived if we skip out on trick-or-treating. think it’s fun to dress up in scary costumes or to try to frighten people on Halloween. Tell them that you’ll keep them safe, but it’s okay if they Hand out candy at home. We don’t get trick-or-treaters in our get scared. We list some of the scary costumes we might see and neighborhood, but my daughter loves to go to my mom’s to help pass remind our daughter that it’s all just pretend. out candy for a little while. Even the gory costumes look less scary from the safety of Grandma’s doorway.

Have an escape plan. We tell our daughter to let us know if she’s scared and wants to go home. If she does, we head home right away. If Create your own traditions. My own grandmother made us you have more than one child, go out with other adults so the kids who pumpkin pancakes on Halloween. This is a tradition I love carrying on are enjoying it can continue. with my daughter. We also always watch,“It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” while munching on popcorn and Halloween candy. There’s no Hit the streets early. When we go trick-or-treating on our street, we rule that says your child has to dress up like a vampire and go door to do it while it is still daylight. Things simply aren’t as scary when the sun door. Create your own special way to celebrate. is out.

Only go to the homes of people you know. Many adults love the spookier side of Halloween. You never know what kind of goblin or creature might open the door thinking it’s all in good fun. We stick to the homes of family, friends and neighbors if we go trick-or-treating.

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My husband and I loved to decorate the house and play spooky soundtracks for the trick-or-treaters before we had kids. But our daughter has taught us that Halloween can be just as fun by focusing on the “treats” and avoiding the “tricks.”

Rachael Moshman is a mom, freelance writer and blogger. She was once Strawberry Shortcake for Halloween. Follow her at @rachaelmoshman.

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5 CHILD SLEEP TIPS FOR DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ADJUSTMENT aylight Saving Time is happening Sunday, November 1st this year and means we turn our clocks back an hour. We often look forward to Daylight Saving in spring, when it means it will stay lighter for longer and give us more time outside. In the fall, however, it seems less useful as it just means it will get darker earlier. The other main downside is that it can interfere with our kids’ sleep schedules. For most parents, Daylight Savings Time in the fall does not mean an extra hour of sleep¬— it means children waking up an hour early. If we don't plan ahead and adjust our kids, then it may mean a lot of early mornings and fussy overtired kids until they adjust. Julie Miller, Certified Child Sleep Consultant and founder of Mountain Dreams Family Sleep Consulting offers five tips for parents to easily adjust to turning our clocks back an hour.

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“Although adults can usually quickly adapt to a new wake up and sleep time, it can be more difficult for kids. Younger children's sleep schedules are more tied to their internal clocks and not what time a watch says it is,” says Julie Miller, Certified Child Sleep Consultant and

founder of Mountain Dreams Family Sleep Consulting. Here are a few of her suggestions to make the “Fall Back” a bit easier.

1. Start early: It is best to be prepared and start adjusting a week out. Consider shifting your child’s entire schedule (including wake times, eating times, naps and bedtimes) 15 minutes later. Repeat this 15-minute shift every other day for the next 3 days. By the time Sunday rolls around, their body will be fully prepared for the new time adjustment.

2. Follow a routine: Children cannot read a clock so your routine is how they know what time it is. Every part of your routine gives children a chance to know what time it is. Mealtimes, snack times, play, naps, bedtime and wake up help children to know what to expect and what is coming next in their day.

Follow your daily routine on the new adjusted schedule not just sleep times; all of your schedule will need to change so they understand the cues to the routine shift.

3. Adjust sleep times earlier: You will need to adjust to an earlier bedtime gradually. You may find your child’s usual 6:30am wake up is now 5:30am on the morning after the time change and for a few days following. You will want to compensate with an earlier nap and bedtime schedule and continue to stick to your consistent routine until your child’s internal clock adjusts. Often when young children are overtired they wake up even earlier, so make sure they are getting their naps and going to bed on time at the new time. The arrival of fall means shorter days with fewer hours of sunlight when you wake up your child in the morning the more exposure they have to bright light will allow them to naturally regulate their circadian rhythms and help them adjust to the new schedule.

4. Each child is unique: Remember that every child is different and they will adjust differently to changes in their sleep schedule.

It takes several days to adjust to the new times, so be prepared for your baby to wake up earlier than usual on occasions, to be crankier than usual during the afternoon, and to be sleepier during the first days of the transition.

5. Check safety measures: Also keep in mind that the start and end of daylight saving time are good reminders to get caught up on safety measures around the house, such as changing the batteries in your smoke detectors and cleaning out your medicine cabinets.

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Are you a child, teen, or adult suffering from ADD/ADHD, LEARNING DISORDERS, ANXIETY, OR PANIC DISORDERS? BrainCore Therapy Neurofeedback can help!

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Dr. Nicole Gullo, DC • 718.605.4093 www.brooklynadhd.com “Like” us on Facebook BrainCore of Brooklyn & Staten Island

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Win Four Tickets to See

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Sunday, November 22 at 1:00pm Prudential Center, Newark, NJ

More Details @ www.siparent.com WIN 5 TICKETS FOR THE NORTH POLE EXPRESS EXPERIENCE ON SUN, DEC 6 The North Pole Express is a fun-filled journey for the entire family!

The train departs the station at Flemington, NJ for a 25 minute ride to the "North Pole" (at Ringoes).

On board the train Santa's Elves will greet all the children.

Enjoy refreshments, meet Santa & Mrs. Claus, face-painting, and a photo op with Santa's sleigh.

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A $137 Value

The Babies are Coming to Castleton Hill Moravian Preschool

Family Resource and Transition Fair al Continent Breakfast Served

Friday, October 30 Free from 9am-1pm PrCe-hiReldgiscatraretion Required FREE ADMISSION

Browse & meet with representatives from over 40 agency providers & community organizations. Speak with agencies that provide services for children, teens, & adults.

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(4-12 MONTHS OLD) TUESDAYS 10:30AM-11:30AM A free, weekly parent & baby class that includes floor time, infant activities, music & most of all, social time for new parents and their babies. There will be many opportunities for parents to discuss and brainstorm with one another their "new baby" experiences.

Free Trial Tot Time Class on Tuesday, October 6 • 9:15am-10:15am

TOT-TIME TOGETHER (12-24 MONTHS OLD) TUESDAYS OR THURSDAYS 9:15AM-10:15AM OR 11AM-12PM $225 PER 15 WEEK SESSION A 15 week session where toddler and parent will play and learn together through a variety of creative activities including music, movement, storytime, messy play and outdoor time.

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2 Year Old Toddler Program 3 & 4 year Old Classes Half & Full Day Programs Including Universal Pre-K State-of-the-Art Outdoor Playground Certified Staff • Large Indoor Gym • Reasonable Rates

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Should Toys Talk to Kids?

Having a toy that can talk is a persistent childhood fantasy. Adults have been trying to bring that fantasy to life ever since Thomas Edison installed miniature, hand-cranked phonographs in porcelain dolls. Over the years, toy manufacturers have experimented with toys that say prerecorded phrases or tell entire stories when a child pulls a string or presses a button.

More recently, toys have become truly interactive, equipped with software that makes them seem responsive to children. This fall, Mattel announced development of Hello Barbie, a new version of the iconic doll that, with the help of a WIFI connection, analyzes what a child says so Barbie can respond with something appropriate. Cognitoys has introduced a talking dinosaur named Dino that answers questions and responds to commands. Both toys are supposed to “learn” as a child uses them, so their responses become tailored to the child.

These toys join a crowd of other talking toys ranging from a baby doll that can “read” 70 words to a “talk back” doll that repeats what a child says in a squeaky voice, from programmable “pets” to radio-controlled robots. Some people think all this responsiveness has educational potential. One intriguing study found that children who played with toys programmed to say their names and other personalized information were more attentive when the toy presented unfamiliar material.

At the same time, many experts continue to feel that young children in particular are better served by toys that allow the child to control the script. Playing is a way for children to work out their own ideas about the world, and it may be better for them to be the ones putting words in the mouths of their favorite stuffed animals, dolls, and action figures. Some toys that seem amusing to adults may actually limit a child’s imagination.

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In short, parents will want to think carefully before purchasing the season’s most seductive talking toys. Here are some questions worth asking:

Will the toy work? Nothing is more frustrating than a new gadget that doesn’t do what it’s supposed to do. Before choosing a talking toy, be sure your child is developmentally ready to manage the controls. Think about whether the toy will challenge or frustrate your child. Will it be too difficult to use without adult assistance? Consider durability, too. Some talking toys are fragile. A toy that breaks down or has technical glitches will interrupt the flow of play.

Does the toy gather info about child? Whenever a toy connects to the cloud, parents have to assume that anything a child says in its presence is

being recorded. What use will companies make of those recordings? The Campaign for a Commercial Free Childhood worries that Hello Barbie will “eavesdrop” on children. “It’s creepy,” says Executive Director Dr. Susan Linn, “and it creates a host of dangers for children and families.” Others are concerned that WIFI-dependent toys will become targets for hackers who have already demonstrated that they can manipulate talking dolls, baby monitors, and other household equipment. To minimize security risks, parents should turn off toys when they aren’t in use and take advantage of any safeguards provided by the manufacturer. The makers of Dino, for example, allow parents to set up an account so they can monitor and, if necessary, delete what a child says to the toy.

Is the toy a good role model? If a toy is going to have regular conversations with your child, you’ll want to be sure that what it says is consistent with what you want your child to hear. Some toys are surprisingly sassy. How will you feel if your child mimics the toy? Other toys embody exaggerated ideas about gender— hypermuscular action figures or heavily made-up dolls. If a toy is going to function as a child’s friend, it should be a positive influence.

Is the toy affordable? Interactive toys tend to be expensive.

Talking Barbie, for example, will cost $75. Think about whether the price matches the play value of the toy. What else could you buy for the same money?

Does the toy stimulate imaginative play? Talking toys are often one-trick ponies. The toy does the work, so your child becomes a passive consumer of entertainment. Once the novelty wears off, your child is likely to be bored, a sure-fire indication that the toy isn’t giving your child room to think and grow. Many child development experts believe that children benefit most from simple toys that give them open-ended opportunities to experiment and explore. If you decide to invest in interactive toys, be sure young children also have access to basics, like blocks, puppets, puzzles, and art supplies. School-age children are often inspired by interactive toys, but not necessarily in the way that manufacturer intended. Some kids try to manipulate the toy to see if they can make it do outrageous things. If your child has that kind of inventive spirit, he or she might benefit more from a toy like Ozobot that puts programming power in the child’s hands.

Finally, it’s important to understand the limitations of talking toys. Children need to become skilled with language because it’s the best way to share information, express feelings, and build a sense of closeness with other people. Toys that talk may be clever and amusing, but they cannot help a child develop understanding and empathy. That’s something they can learn only in the company of living, breathing, caring people.

By Carolyn Jabs, M.A., who raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs.

She has written Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses conflict. Other columns are available at www.growing-up-online.com. @ Copyright, 2015. Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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TWEENS

>>>

THINKING AHEAD: THE HIGH SCHOOL ADMISSIONS PROCESS

If your child is in middle school, he or she might make it seem like every little decision is a crucial one. But there is one decision that really is important: choosing the right high school. If your child is currently in the 7th grade then it’s a good time to start preparing. Selecting the right school can be a daunting task for a child, so your guidance and involvement is necessary to easing any anxieties he or she might be feeling.

your child. Attending High School Fairs and Open Houses will give you the ability to see the school first-hand and meet with staff and current students.

See page 70 for more information about this year’s High School Fairs and Open Houses. Applications are due to guidance counselors by December, so it is imperative that your family is well informed and ready to make a choice.

This time flies quickly!

Not sure where to start? Not to worry – S.I. Parent offers some sound tips and a guide to navigating the potentially exhausting process of choosing the right school. More resources can also be found at siparent.com.

Things have changed greatly since the last two generations of high school students were making choices. There weren’t many options beyond a local public school, a private high school, or a specialized high school.

Your child should start preparing for high school around the beginning of the 7th grade. It’s a good time to work on good study habits, explore extracurricular activities and read more often than is required for homework assignments.The more your child reads, the stronger their verbal, writing and critical thinking skills will be. This is the time to develop foreign language skills too (including American Sign Language, if available), as well as sharpening skills in math and science. Prep courses or private tutoring services are also available to help prepare for admissions tests.

Applying to a Public High School

New York City has over 400 public high schools offering over 700 programs. Some programs cater to specific interests and skills while some are more beneficial to students who are new to the country, and others focus on creating specific learning environments. You and your child should consider preferences, interests, location, and academic needs. Some of today’s choices include: Career and Technical Schools - These schools integrate academic study with workforce skills in specific career pathways. They offer students the It is a good idea to visit potential school choices with your child to get a opportunity to graduate high school with industry-specific competencies, sense of what to expect and how it feels to be part of the high school skills, training, and even credentials that can lead to college or entry into the community. By September of 8th grade, your family should be attending workforce. Through these programs, students have the opportunity to earn citywide High School Fairs to get a better sense of the options available to Advanced Regents diplomas.

NYC P-TECH 9-14 Schools - These schools combine high school, college, and career training over the course of a six-year program. Students will The #1 graduate with a high school diploma, an Associate Tutoring Center Degree from CUNY, and relevant industry certification. on All college courses are free and the credits are 465 Belfield Ave • 718-227-0121 Staten Island! transferable for postsecondary education.

Near the Annadale Train Station iZone Schools - These schools incorporate the www.barbararauchtutoring.com latest strategies, tools, and technologies to personalize the needs, motivations, and strengths of individual students. iZone programs can include the implementation of online courses, technology-rich classrooms, and/or computer science coursework in the curriculum.

PUBLIC SCHOOL & CATHOLIC SCHOOL GRADES 3-7 Specialized High Schools - These are highlyrd th 3 Grade: Wed, Nov 18 • 3:30-5:00pm 5 Grade: Thur, Nov 17 • 3:30-5:00pm selective public high schools designed to serve the Sat, Nov 14 • 9:00-10:30am Sat, Nov 14 • 8:45am-10:15pm needs of academically and artistically gifted students.

4th Grade: Wed, Nov 18 • 5:15-6:45pm 6th Grade: Thur, Nov 12 • 5:15-6:45pm With the exception of Fiorello H. LaGuardia High Sat, Nov 14 • 10:45am-12:15pm 7th Grade: Tue, Nov 10 • 5:30-7:00pm School (where students are required to audition), admission is based on the Specialized High Schools NEW REDESIGNED PSAT COURSE FOR SOPHOMORES & JUNIORS - 3 HOUR CLASS Admissions Test (SHSAT). If your child is considering Saturday, Oct 10 • 9am-12pm | Saturday, Oct 10 • 12:15-3:15pm attending one of the nine specialized schools in NYC, Sunday, Oct 11 • 10am-1pm | Monday (Columbus Day), Oct 12 • 9am-12pm you may want to consider prep courses or private The math program will include: tutoring specifically tailored to the strategies • Teaching all concepts for the math exam necessary for these tests.

• Complete worksheets & practice problems to 1 On 1 Charter Schools - These are free, independent drill the essential skills appearing on the exam Tutoring For public schools that are separate from the Department All Subjects The ELA program will include: of Education. All students can apply and admittance is • Reading comprehension skills • Listening skills • Writing skills determined through a lottery. Preference is given to students who are already enrolled and students living • Weekly High School Math And Science Tutoring in the charter school district. Some charter schools Algebra I, Geometry, Alg.Ii/Trig, Chemistry, may have a longer school day, school year, and/or Physics, Small Groups Formed by High School various thematic programs. There are currently over • Taking Registration For May 2016 Redesigned SAT & November 2016 TACHS Exam 50 charter high schools across New York City, two of which are located on Staten Island: John W. Lavelle

BARBARA RAUCH TUTORING SERVICE

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Charter School and New Ventures Charter School (which just opened in September). For more information on charter schools, visit nyccharterschools.org.

Transfer Schools, Young Adult Borough Centers, or High School Equivalency Programs - These are small high schools designed to reengage students who have dropped out or fallen behind.

Students with Disabilities – Students with disabilities may apply to all programs and are subject to the same admissions requirements as their peers. They may take the SHSAT and apply for all audition programs, including Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Performing Arts. Testing accommodations will be provided during the SHSAT administration as outlined in the student’s IEP. Each fall, 8th grade students must submit an application listing up to 12 programs in order of preference. Applicants are then matched to one of their ranked schools according to priority, method, and available seats. Round 1 results are available in March.You can learn more about the public high school admissions process on the DOE website, schools.nyc.gov. The site is an important resource with useful tips and information, including a video series of previous DOE events, a directory of NYC Public High Schools and an email list to receive important updates.

Students interested in applying to a NYC public high school from a private or parochial school should speak with their guidance counselor in middle school. High School applications and materials will be available from the guidance counselors in the fall of 8th grade.

Applying to a Catholic High School If you are considering a Catholic high school for your child, there are a variety of coeducational and single-sex schools from which to choose, many of which offer partnerships with local Catholic colleges and universities.

To apply to a Catholic High school, students must first take an admissions exam called TACHS (Test for Admission into Catholic High Schools). They may select three high schools on their application. The TACHS results, along with school records and other information, are then sent to the school’s principals to assist them in making their decision.

Catholic School scholarships opportunities include those based on merit, financial need, and those identified as “at risk” through the Inner-City Scholarship Fund.

Special Needs Students – The Seton Foundation, a not-for-profit, non-sectarian corporation that is affiliated with, and accredited by, the Department of Education of the Archdiocese of New York, is open to children of all faiths. It does not receive funding from the Archdiocese.

On Staten Island, The Seton Foundation operates Bishop Patrick V. Ahern HS for students 15 to 21 years old and is located on the campus of Moore Catholic High School.

Like fairs held for public high schools, students and parents are invited to visit the facilities and learn more about the programs offered. Fairs and Open Houses are generally scheduled prior to the TACHS exam date, but if you are unable to attend a one you should contact the school to set up an appointment.

Need more help? If you would like to discuss the admission process, speak to your child’s guidance counselor directly. You can never have too much information—it’s the key to making good decisions!

The info in this article is subject to change.

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STATEN ISLAND TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION NIGHT College Preparatory Program In: Math – Science – Computers Engineering – Humanities Russian – Performing Arts

THURSDAY, OCT. 8, 2015 6:00 – 8:00 PM All seventh and eighth grade public, private, and parochial school students and parents welcome!

Parents and students who cannot attend the Open House may make alternate arrangements by contacting the Parent Coordinator, Barbara Malenfant, via e-mail, at BMalenfant@schools.nyc.gov.

STATEN ISLAND TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL 485 Clawson Street Staten Island, NY 10306 (718) 667-3222 Mark Erlenwein, Principal

WWW.SITHS.ORG OCTOBER 2015

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Important Dates for NYC PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL ADMISSIONS Come See How We “Make a Mark. Make a Difference.”

GAYNOR MCCOWN EXPEDITIONARY LEARNING SCHOOL Invites All 8th Grade Students and Parents to our

HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION NIGHT on Wednesday, October 21 and Monday, November 2 7:00-9:00pm 100 Essex Drive • 718-370-6950

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Important Dates for CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL ADMISSIONS

September 10 to October 15 – Registration period for Fall SHSAT and LaGuardia High School auditions

August 24 to October 7 – Registration period for the TACHS exam for paper registration. Form and fee due by end date.

September 26 & 27 – Citywide High School Fairs October 17 & 18 – Borough High School Fairs

August 24 – October 19 - Registration period for the TACHS exam for Internet and telephone registration. Form and fee due by end date. Note: Internet is the preferred method.

October 24 & 25 – SHSAT testing for all current 8th grade students

October 3 – TACHS High School Information Fair at the Vanderbuilt (12-2pm)

November 7 & 15 – SHSAT for all current 9th grade students and 8th and 9th grade students who are English Language Learners or students with disabilities who have IEP’s or 504 plans.

November 6 - TACHS ADMINISTRATION for Archdiocese of New York (includes Staten Island)

December 1 – High School Application Deadline for Round 1 Early March – Round 1 results distributed

December 11 - Paper TACHS Applicant Records due to students’ three high school choices.

January 13 - Release of admission notices by high schools.

March 2 – High School Registration Day

Dates subject to change. Check http://schools.nyc.gov for the latest info.

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OPEN HOUSE DATES

Visit siparent.com for updates on these open houses

CURTIS HIGH SCHOOL Information Night

Thursday, November 5 from 7-9pm Come see which of our SMALL LEARNING COMMUNITIES suits your interests: • School for International Services • International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme • Computer/Business Institute • Performing Arts • Journalism Institute • Arts & Technology • Human & Legal Studies Academy • Nursing Learn about our many clubs, activities, & • Navy (NJROTC) PSAL Athletic Teams

For More Information Contact: Mr. Gregory Jaenicke, Prinicpal, I.A. or Mrs. Caruso at 718.390.1887

MOORE CATHOLIC HS BAY RIDGE PREP LOWER & MIDDLE SCHOOL 100 Merrill Avenue, 10314 8101 Ridge Blvd • Bklyn, NY 11209 718-761-9200 Sun, Oct 4, 1-4pm 718-833-9090 Tues, Nov 10, 9:00am NOTRE DAME ACADEMY Thurs, Dec 3, 9:00am 134 Howard Avenue, 10301 and 718-447-8878 BAY RIDGE PREP Sund, Nov.1, 1-4pm UPPER SCHOOL 7420 4th Ave•Bklyn, NY 11209

STATEN ISLAND ACADEMY 715 Todt Hill Road, 10304 718-303-7802 Sat, Oct 24, 9am -12pm and STATEN ISLAND ACADEMY CSI HIGH SCHOOL FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDIES WILLIAM WINTER SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM 100 Essex Drive, 10314 Grade 9 only 718-370-6915 Tues, Oct 20 (Last names A-L) Tues, Oct 20, 7pm Mon, Oct 26 (Last names M-Z) Tues, Nove 10, 9:30am 718-833-5839 Thurs, Oct 22, 9:00am Tues, Nov 3, 9:00am Wed, Nov 18, 5:00am

GAYNOR MCCOWN EXPEDITIONARY LEARNING SCHOOL 100 Essex Drive., 10314 718-370-6950 Wed, Oct 21, 7-9pm Mon, Nov 2, 7-9pm MONSIGNOR FARRELL HS 2900 Amboy Rd., 10306 718-987-2900 Sun, Oct.18, 11:30am-2:30pm

ST. JOSEPH BY THE SEA HS 5150 Hylan Blvd., 10312 718-984-6500 Sun, Oct 18, 12-4pm (Girls) Sun, Oct 25, 12-4pm (Boys) ST. JOSEPH HILL ACADEMY 850 Hylan Blvd., 10305 718-447-1374 Sun, Oct 25, 11:30am-2:30pm ST. PETER’S HS FOR BOYS 200 Clinton Ave., 10301 718-447-1676 Sun, Nov 1, 1-4pm ST. PETER’S PREP 144 Grand St., Jersey City, NJ 07302 201-547-6389 Sun, Oct 4, 1-4pm

S.I. TECHNICAL HS 485 Clawson St., 10306 718-667-3222 Thurs, Oct 8, 6:30pm

SUSAN E. WAGNER HS 1200 Manor Rd., 10314 718-698-5213 Thurs, Oct 22 (time TBA)

ST. JOHN VILLA ACADEMY 25 Landis Ave., 10305 718-442-6240 Sat, Oct 17, 1-4pm

XAVERIAN 7100 Shore Parkway, Brooklyn, NY, 11209 Sun, Oct 18, 10am-2pm

105 Hamilton Avenue • SI, NY 10301

Dates are subject to change. Check www.tachsinfo.com for the latest info.

OPEN HOUSES FOR OPEN HOUSES NOT LISTED HERE, CONTACT THE SCHOOLS DIRECTLY. PHONE NUMBERS CAN BE FOUND ON WWW.SIPARENT. CLICK ON THE PRESCHOOLS & SCHOOLS TAB.

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HALLOWEEN FUN

Cool weather, cozy sweaters, spooky stories, and pumpkin everything…Isn't autumn the best? Looking for some fall family fun? Read on for pumpkin picking farms, Halloween tips, festive local events, and more!

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PUMPKIN PICKING FARMS IN NEW JERSEY Argos Farm

1250 Lacey Road Forked River, NJ 08731 609-693-3513 Hayrides, Corn Maze, Hay Mountain, Corn Box, Duck Races, Lasso, Corn Hole

Cheesequake Farm Market 2095 US Highway 9 Old Bridge, NJ 08857 732-721-5728 Hayrides, Educational Displays

Green Meadows Petting Farm Green Acres Drive at Middle Road Hazlet, NJ 07730 732-335-5589 Hayrides, Petting Zoo

Happy Day Farm

97 Daum Road Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-977-3607 Hayrides, Corn Maze, Petting Zoo, Kids Korner

BOOK REVIEW

Host a Little Ghost and the Story of the Mystical Mums

by Lillian Stulich and Kevin McCormick This new children’s book was inspired by students affected by Super Storm Sandy and depicts lessons of kindness, caring, sharing, and friendship. Super Storm Sandy hit a just few days before Halloween, and while Halloween celebrations were overshadowed by the devastating impact the storm had on our area, many students remembered it’s better to give than receive. Host a Little Ghost follows the adventure of twins Tommy and Suzie after an autumn whirlwind brings a new friend to teach them about caring, sharing, and the joy of the Halloween season.

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OCTOBER 2015

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Horse Sleigh Farm

438 Route 57 West Washington, NJ 07882 908-267-5313 Hayrides, Corn Maze, Pony Rides, Haunted Attractions, Petting Zoo

Norz Hill Farm & Market

116 South Branch Rd Hillsborough, NJ 08844 908-371-2697 Hayrides, Corn Maze, Pony Rides, Belly Bounce, Scare Farm

Ort Farms

25 Bartley Road Long Valley, NJ 07853 908-876-3351 Farm Animals, Hay Pyramid, Corn Maze, Monster Truck Rides, Pony Rides

Slope Brook Farms 213 Heyers Mill Road Colts Neck, NJ 07722 732-772-1772

Stony Hill Farm Market

8 Route 24 Chester, NJ 07930 908-879-2908 Corn Maze, Kids Games, Playground

Terhune Orchards 330 Cold Soil Road Princeton, NJ 08540 609-924-2310 Pony rides, tractor drawn wagon rides, pumpkin & face painting, pedal tractors, animals, corn & hay maze and farm trail.

Von Thun’s County Farm Market 505 Ridge Road Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852 732-329-8656 Hayrides, Corn Maze, Face Painting, Pony Rides, Bounce House, Kids Games

Wemrock Orchards

300 State Highway 33 @Wemrock Road Manalapan, NJ 07728 732-431-2668 Hayrides, Corn Maze, Inflatable Bounce, Munchkin Fun Patch

OCTOBER 2015

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HALLOWEEN FUN

Check out our Fall Fun Guide at www.siparent.com for an updated list of events and for more details on the events listed below!

>

FALL AND HALLOWEEN EVENTS IN STATEN ISLAND (…AND BEYOND)

Green Side Up

Scarecrow Festival

The Haunted Pumpkin Garden

The Bravest BBQ

September 26 - October 31 Mon-Sat: 8am-5pm; Sun 8am-4pm 5050 Hylan Blvd, 10312 718-967-5039

September 20 - October 31 The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458 718-817-8700

iPlay America's Spooky Spooktacular Halloween

PROSPECT HILL ORCHARDS

Br

Open Every Weekend in October!

Enjoy a Hayride, discover how a Cider Press works, Decorate FREE Scarecrows, Fun For Pumpkin Families Paper Craft to take home & PICK YOUR OWN Apples & ad this Pumpkins n i EE ing FR for a MPKIN U P 6”

JOHNNY APPLESEED CIDER FESTIVAL Oct 17 & 18 10am-4pm

73 Clarks Lane Milton, NY 12547 845-795-2383 www.prospecthillorchards.com Find us on Facebook

74

OCTOBER 2015

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October 2 - November 1 110 Schanck Rd, Freehold, NJ 07728 732-577-8200

Prospect Hill Orchards

Every weekend in October 73 Clarks Lane, Milton, NY 12547 845-795-2383

A Haunted Evening at the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum October 2 & 3 • 7:30pm 420 Tompkins Ave. 718-442-1608

RISE of the Jack-O-Lanterns October 2-25 Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, NY, 516-333-0048

Haunted Hikes

Saturday, October 3, 10, & 17 • 2pm Clay Pit Ponds • 83 Nielsen Ave. 718-967-1976

Decker Farm Pumpkin Picking Weekends

Weekends: Oct 3 & 4, Oct 11 & 12, Oct 17 & 18, Oct 24 & 25, Oct 31 & Nov 1 • 11am-4pm 435 Richmond Hill Rd 718-351-1611

Saturday, October 3 • 11am-4pm The Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Ave. 718-967-3542 Saturday, October 10 • 12pm Hillside Swim Club 151 Signs Road, 10314 718-986-4587

Annual Pumpkin Festival Saturday, October 10 • 12-4pm Willowbrook Park Eton Place and Richmond Ave 212-830-7700

4th Annual Zoctoberfest

Monday, October 12 • 11am-4pm Zion Lutheran • 505 Watchogue Rd. 718-981-3151

Scary Story Club

Tuesday, October 13 & 27 • 4pm West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Ave. 718-442-1416

Boo at the Boardwalk

Saturdays, October 17 & 24; Sundays, October 18 & 25 • 12-4pm Jenkinson's Boardwalk Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742 732-892-0600

Staten Island Zoo Spooktacular

Saturday, October 17 & Sunday October 18 The Staten Island Zoo • 614 Broadway 718-815-0412

The Halloween Spooktacular Saturday, October 17 • 3pm Stapleton Library • 3pm 718-727-0427 132 Canal Street

Johnny Appleseed Cider Fest

Oct 17 & 18 • 10am-4pm 73 Clarks Lane, Milton, NY 12547 845-795-2383

Pumpkin Patch

Sunday, October 18 • 1-4pm Joe Holzka Community Garden Castleton Ave. & Barker St. 212-788-7900

The Halloween Spook-tacular Monday, October 19 • 4pm Tottenville Library • 7430 Amboy Rd. 718-984-0945

Haunted Halloween Kids Magic Comedy Show Tuesday, October 20 • 4pm South Beach Library • 21-25 Robin Rd. 718-816-5834

Not Too Scary Halloween Party Friday, October 23 • 6-8pm Staten Island Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060

Brick a Pumpkin

Friday, October 23 Bricks for Kidz • 72 Sharrott Ave, 10309 718-984-5439

Halloween Weekend

Saturday, October 24 • 10am-5pm Staten Island Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060

Harvest Festival

Saturday, October 24 • 11am-3pm The Interpretive Center 2351 Veterans Rd. West 718-605-3970 ext 201

Kids and Kritters: Spiders

Saturday, October 24 • 11am Blue Heron Nature Center • 222 Poillon Ave. 718-967-3542

Shrek the Musical

Sunday, October 25 • 3pm St. George Theater, 35 Hyatt Street, 10301

Halloween Shrunken Heads

Sunday, October 25 • 2:30pm Blue Heron Nature Center • 222 Poillon Ave. 718-967-3542

OCTOBER 2015

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HALLOWEEN FUN

Pumpkin Carving Workshop

Halloween Party

Halloween Crafts for Kids

Spooktacular Celebration

Sunday, October 25 • 2pm Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450

Monday, October 26 • 4pm Tottenville Library • 7430 Amboy Rd. 718-984-0945

Not-So-Scary Halloween Sing Along

Tuesday, October 27 • 4pm South Beach Library • 21-25 Robin Rd. 718-816-5834

No Tricks, Just Treats: Halloween Story Time

Wednesday, October 28 • 4pm Tottenville Library • 7430 Amboy Rd. 718-984-0945

Spooky Stories to Tingle Your Spine

Wednesday, October 28 • 4pm West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Ave. 718-442-1416

Halloween Party

Tuesday, October 29 • 4pm Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642

Friday, October 30 • 230pm - 430pm Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 Friday October 30 • 3pm West New Brighton Library 76 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416

Halloween Festivities

Friday, October 30 • 3:30pm Great Kills Library • 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670

Joseph's Helping Hand 1st Annual Halloween Fundraiser

Saturday, October 31 • 1-5pm Ariana's South • 60 South Bridge Street 718-673-4JOE

Ghosts of Conference House Saturday, October 31 • 7-8:30pm 298 Satterlee Street 718-967-3542

Halloween Story Time

Saturday, October 31 @11am-12pm St. George Library • 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560

MORE > HALLOWEEN

FUN ONLINE @

www.siparent.com • ABC Family’s 13 Nights of Halloween Movies • Halloween Crafts • Updated Lists of Events and Pumpking Farms • Halloween Trends • Fall Recipes

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CANDY BUY BACK LOCATIONS • Kids Dental 4864 Arthur Kill Road 718-356-5437

Halloween Program

• Phyllis G. Merlino 268 Todt Hill Road 718-761-2090

Haunted Greenbelt Walk

• Dr. Michael D'Anna 115 Seguine Ave 718-948-4384

Tuesday, October 29 • 4pm New Dorp Library • 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 Tuesday, October 29 • 5:30pm High Rock Park • 200 Nevada Avenue 718-667-2165

Halloween Hoopla

Friday, October 30 • 2-5pm Bloomingdale Park • Lenevar & Ramona Aves.

718-816-2000

Halloween in Richmond Town Friday, October 30 • 3:30-5pm .

718-351-1611

Build a Witch

Friday, October 30 Bricks for Kidz • 72 Sharrott Ave, 10309 718-984-5439

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>DID YOU KNOW?

The current record for the world’s largest pumpkin is a whopping 2,323 pounds! Now that’s one gargantuan gourd!

Black and orange are typically associated with Halloween. Orange is a symbol of strength and endurance and, along with brown and gold, stands for the harvest and autumn. Black is typically a symbol of death and darkness and acts as a reminder that Halloween once was a festival that marked the boundaries between life and death.

OCTOBER 2015

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Elizabeth W. Pouch Center for Special People A Division of the Staten Island Mental Health Society, Inc.

“A Lifeline for a Lifetime” Serving Staten Island Residents of All Ages Who Are Developmentally Challenged • Clinical outpatient services including diagnosis, treatment, specialized therapies, and supportive services for children and their families • Comprehensive CPSE evaluations • Saturday socialization groups for children with autism • Parent partnership in all programs Preschool Inclusion Classes at Head Start

718.448.9775 657 Castleton Ave. www.simhs.org Early Childhood Program services are funded by local and state taxes earmarked for special education and other services. Transportation for the Preschool Inclusion Classes available at no cost to parents.

OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA SCHOOL

Start your child off on the right path!

Become a part of the Catholic school tradition.

• Advance ED Accredited/NCA • NYS Certified teaching staff • Common Core Curriculum PreK 4 to Grade 8 • High tech computer lab • Interactive Smartboard in all classrooms • Internet access throughout the school • Grades 7 & 8 use online textbooks for science, reading and social studies through school provided IPads.

• Remediation program, school counselor & meeting room • NJHS Chapter; Student Government • Science, Engineering and Technology Club; • Grade 8 Honors Math • Spanish Grades 3-8 Pre-K • State of the art athletic center with two new gymnasiums and an outdoor soccer field to 8th • Before and after care school program Grade • Full time school nurse

Pre K 3 Half Day: Tues & Thurs • 8:30-11:00 & 12:00-2:30 Pre K 4 Full Day: Mon, Wed & Fri • 8:30-2:30 Pre K 4 Emergent Literacy with Happily Ever After Reading Program, Formal Music and Computer Classes.

Rolling Registration.

Call for an Appointment.

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

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LIFE IS GRAND!

by Marianna Randazzo

New Lessons For Grandparents

That new baby is here and we get to love her up! Great, but that’s just part of it. The parents hold all the cards and there may be new rules to the game since our own babies were born.

1. We could love that new baby tirelessly but we must remember that he or she is not ours. While that makes perfect sense, for some reason it sometimes comes as a shock to grandparents– especially with new parents who are young and inexperienced. For grandparents who are accustomed to being in charge, deferring to the rules and wishes of their children can be humbling. After all, they reason, we’ve raised our own children and feel like veterans in the child-rearing game.

2. Even when there is a lack of parenting books around the house, new parents have no problem finding all the information they need.

3. Sometimes less said is better, even if you are an expert in childcare. We should let new parents discover things that they assume we do not know. Not all advice and wisdom is appreciated, unless directly solicited. At the same time, not all traditional advice is good. For example, past generations of parents have rubbed baby’s sore gums with brandy or whiskey to soother teething pain. No amount of alcohol is thought to be safe for infants, so resist any urge you may have to follow in that tradition. Another example is car seat safety; Baby Boomers mostly rode without benefit of seatbelt restraint!

4. Fellow grandparents, despite all of your experience you will still be told how to hold a baby, burp her, swaddle, and have tummy time. The names have changed but not the methods. Of course we all know you never put a newborn on her stomach but watch out, it may take a while to secure a new parent’s trust. Don’t take it personally.

5. With the wealth of childrearing information online, most new parents are up to speed — and beyond — but we grandparents may not be. Scan through catalogs and magazines for baby items to familiarize yourself with new products and their functions. Boppies, sound machines, plastic grass trays that you stand baby bottles up in. There’s a lot of cool new gear, but we do pick up quickly.

6. Now may be the time for grandparents to get a life. Some new parents become overly dependent on their parents for babysitting, providing meals, or financial support. Conversely, grandparents can become immersed in the young family’s dayto-day life, putting their own desires on the back burner. Here is when grandparents need to take a step back. “Boundaries” is not a dirty word. It’s good to have your own life and let them figure out theirs.

7. Let go of all expectations. Many grandparents are heartbroken when their children and grandchildren move out of their first apartment and out of state or (gasp!) out of the country. Remember, it is your children’s story and they get to write it.

It may not be the way you wanted things to go, but once you let go of your own agenda, you will realize that in today’s world of technology and transportation, no distance could break the bonds of love between grandparents and grandchildren.

8. Lastly, Rudolph Giuliani put it best, “What children need most are the essentials that grandparents provide in abundance. They give unconditional love, kindness, patience, humor, comfort, and lessons in life. And, most importantly, cookies."

OCTOBER 2015

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By Staten Islander Marianna Randazzo, author, educator, and a grandmother of two.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 Puppet Mobile: Tales of Brier Rabbit PS 30 200 Wardwell Ave cityparksfoundation.org 9am • Free • All ages

Staten Island Health & Wellness Expo The Hilton Garden Inn 1100 South Avenue 718-477-2400 10am • Free • All ages Toddler Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 • Ages 1-5 Baby & Me Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby & Me Time West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 A Helluva Choir Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 1:30pm • Free • All ages CloseKnit Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 2pm • Free • Adults Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Behind the Scenes at the Museum Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages Kids’ Movie Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • All ages Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12 Lego Club West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Homework Help St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 76 Saint Albans Place

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

718-984-6060 7:30pm • Free • All ages Rent Performance Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 8pm • $45 • Adults

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2

Toddler Time Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 10:15am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Baby and Me Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free • All ages Light, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 3pm • • All ages Family Yoga Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • All ages

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MORE EVENTS & DETAILS ON SIPARENT.COM

PLEASE NOTE: Events announced in this calendar are subject to change.

We strongly suggest calling to confirm times, prices, ages, etc. before you attend.

OCTOBER IS:

Adopt a Shelter Dog Month Domestic Violence Awareness Month National Breast Cancer Awareness Month National Dental Hygiene Month

IMPORTANT DATES: Mental Illness Awareness Week - October 4 -10 Fire Prevention Week - October 4 -10 World Teachers Day - October 5 Columbus Day - October 12 Halloween - October 31

718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Preschool Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11:30am • Free • Ages 3-5 The Story Museum Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11:30am • $3 • Ages 0-5 Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages

Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 3pm • Free • All ages Board Games St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3pm • Free • All ages Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Wii Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834

3:30pm • Free • All ages Fun Fridays: Stories and a Craft Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 4+ Crafternoon West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Movies in the Parks: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Wolfe's Pond Park Cornelia Avenue 718-390-8000 7pm • Free • All ages A Haunted Evening Garibaldi-Meucci Museum 420 Tompkins Avenue 718-442-1608 7:30pm • $60 • All ages Rent Performance Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 8pm • $45 • Adults

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 Cleaning & Maintaining Westerleigh Park Willard Ave., Springfield Ave., Maine Ave., Neal Dow Ave. 718-442-0336 9am • Free • All ages

NYRR: Open Run, Run for Life The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 9am • Free • All ages Bank of America Museums On Us Staten Island Museum 75 Stuyvesant Place 718-727-1135 10am • Free • All ages Family Fun Day: Alice and Me Self-Portraiture Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 10am • $5 • Ages 5+ Fitness Saturday Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • All ages 65th Annual Fence Show Staten Island Museum 75 Stuyvesant Place 718-727-1135 11am • Free • All ages Fall Hike with Mike Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages Scarecrow Festival Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages Pumpkin Picking Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11am • $5 • All ages

Fall Foliage Sensory Walk Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • Free • Ages 4-8 D.E.A.R. Time (Drop Everything And Read) St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 11am • Free • Ages 5-12 Fall Colors The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran's Road West 718-605-3970 12pm • Free • All ages Carnival to Cure Crohn’s and Colitis Commons Cafe 2 Teleport Drive 347-466-4207 12pm • Free • All ages Art Studio SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Walking Tour: Rambling Through Rosebank Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 1pm • $10 • All ages Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages Kids’ Movie St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 1pm • Free • All ages Haunted Hikes Clay Pit Ponds 83 Nielsen Ave 718-967-1976 2pm • Free • All ages Open Craft Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 2pm • Free • Ages 6-16 Eating America Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2pm • Free w/admission • All ages The Legacy of Rome Garibaldi-Meucci Museum 420 Tompkins Avenue 718-442-1608 2pm • $10 • Adults Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 3pm • Free • All ages A Haunted Evening Garibaldi-Meucci Museum 420 Tompkins Avenue 718-442-1608 7:30pm • $60 • All ages Rent Performance Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace

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

Doggie Boot Camp Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds 1131 Manor Road 718-761-1423 3:30pm • Free • All ages

718-448-2500 8pm • $45 • Adults

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 Pumpkin Picking Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11am • $5 • All ages

MONDAY, OCTOBER 5

Bank of America Museums On Us Staten Island Museum 75 Stuyvesant Place 718-727-1135 12pm • Free • All ages Family Fun Day Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds 1131 Manor Road 718-761-1423 12pm • $15 • All ages Tide Pool Exploration and Seining Seaside Wildlife Nature Park Nelson Avenue

Blood Drive Richmond University Medical Center 355 Bard Avenue 718-818-1234 7am • Free • Ages 16+

Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 All Join In! Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11am • Free • Ages 2-4

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MORE EVENTS & DETAILS ON SIPARENT.COM

THE 65TH ANNUAL FENCE SHOW

Saturday, October 3 Staten Island Museum 11am statenislandmuseum.org Join in a stroll along the magnificent front five Greek revival buildings and visit the new home of the Staten Island Museum at Snug Harbor.

Some of the art will be for viewing and some will be for sale, but it will all be original and not to be missed. The entire day is FREE for the audience and fun for the whole family.

212-639-9675 1pm • Free • All ages Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages Decomposers – Recyclers in the Wild Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 2pm • Free • Ages 8-12 Building the American Dream Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Let’s Draw Together, Nature Illustration Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 2:30pm • Free • All ages

Pre-School Stories West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 3-5 Baby Space!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:45am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street cityparksfoundation.org 3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8 Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 Read Aloud Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • All ages

Homework Help St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6 Mommy and Me Yoga Richmond University Medical Center 355 Bard Avenue 718-818-1234 9:15am • $10 • Ages 0-1

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran's Road West 718-605-3970 10am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Baby Space St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby Bounce Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 La Leche 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 Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Silly Tuesday Kids Games West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3pm • Free • Ages 5+ Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street cityparksfoundation.org 3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8 Afternoon Story Time and Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Teen/Tween Painting Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 10+ Turtle Dance Music SensoryFriendly Concert Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 2+ Read Aloud South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road

718-816-5834 4pm • Free • All ages ABC Read with Me Picture Book Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 3-8 LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 5pm • Free • All ages

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7 NYRR: Open Run, Run for Life The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 10am • Free • All ages Baby Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-3 Clay Day SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Read Aloud/Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • Ages 3+ Voice of the People Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages

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

Group Hike or Trail Run Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 6pm • Free • All ages

Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8

Kiddie Tech Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-11

Learn to Crochet Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 3am • Free • All ages Preschool Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-4

Origami Wednesdays!

Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 6+ Family Story Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • All ages Family Storytime Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 4pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Bookcraft Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 4-8 Unstructured Activity Time for Kids St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Homework Help St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

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

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MORE EVENTS & DETAILS ON SIPARENT.COM

SCARECROW FESTIVAL

Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street cityparksfoundation.org 3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8 Board Games South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • All ages

Lego Club West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Saturday, October 3 Blue Heron Nature Center 11am-4pm www.preserve2.org/blueheron Create your own life-size scarecrow, paint a pumpkin & craft programs. A great fun-filled day for the entire family! Don’t forget to bring an old shirt & pants to stuff. Admission is free, however there is a minimal materials charge for the scarecrow kit & a fee to paint a pumpkin.

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Movies South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4:30pm • Free • All ages

Baby & Me Time West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 76 Saint Albans Place 718-984-6060 7:30pm • Free • All ages

A Helluva Choir Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 1:30pm • Free • All ages

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Behind the Scenes at the Museum Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages

Toddler Time Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 10:15am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

Baby Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby and Me Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 The Story Museum Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11:30am • $3 • Ages 0-5 Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free • All ages Light, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 3pm • All ages Canvas Kids and Gallery West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3pm • Free • Ages 7-12 Board Games St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3pm • Free • All ages Wii Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • All ages Fun Fridays: Stories and a Craft Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 4+ 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

Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

Crafternoon West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Preschool Storytime South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free • Pre-K

Birding with Friends of Blue Heron The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10

9am • Free • All ages Cleaning & Maintaining Westerleigh Park Willard Ave., Springfield Ave., Maine Ave., Neal Dow Ave. 718-442-0336 9am • Free • All ages NYRR: Open Run, Run for Life The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 9am • Free • All ages Tree Giveaway Willowbrook Park Eton Place and Richmond Ave. 718-698-2186 10am • Free • All ages La Leche Meeting Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10am • Free • Adults Fitness Saturday Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • All ages Birding: Kids Raptor Discovery High Rock Park 200 Nevada Avenue 718-667-2165 11am • Free • All ages It’s My Park Day Schmul Park Wild Ave., Pearson St., Melvin Ave. 212-788-8277 11am • Free • All ages Songs That Count!

St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 11am • Free • Grades Pre-K Remembering the Lenape The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran's Road West 718-605-3970 12pm • Free • All ages Rome Through Richmond Town Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 12pm • Free • All ages Annual Pumpkin Festival Willowbrook Park Eton Place and Richmond Ave. 718-698-2186 12pm • Free • All ages Art Studio SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages Puppet Mobile: Tales of Brier Rabbit Willowbrook Park Eton Place and Richmond Ave. 718-698-2186 1pm • Free • All ages Haunted Hikes Clay Pit Ponds

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

Coming Out Day BBQ Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 2pm • $5 • All ages

83 Nielsen Ave 718-967-1976 2pm • Free • All ages Free Family Films New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • All ages

MONDAY, OCTOBER 12

Kiddie Game Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 2pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 3pm • Free • All ages

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11 NYRR Five-Borough Series: Staten Island Half

Blood Drive Richmond University Medical Center 355 Bard Avenue 718-818-1234 7am • Free • Ages 16+

Autism Awareness Day at the Zoo Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway 718-442-3100 9am • $5 • All ages Pumpkin Picking Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11am • $5 • All ages

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MORE EVENTS & DETAILS ON SIPARENT.COM

AUTISM AWARENESS DAY AT THE SI ZOO Monday, October 12 Staten Island Zoo 9am-12pm statenislandzoo.org

The zoo will be providing a friendly environment for families affected by autism spectrum disorders. The day will allow people with autism to enjoy the great offerings provided by the zoo, in addition to animal presentations, sensory exploration activities, and a scavenger hunt.

Richmond County Bank Ballpark 75 Richmond Terrace nyrr.org 8:30am • 25-65 • All ages Fall Big Sit Clove Lakes Park 626 Clove Road 212-639-9675 9am • Free • All ages Pumpkin Picking Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11am • $5 • All ages Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages Building the American Dream Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Pre-School Stories West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 3-5 Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street citypaksfoudation.org 3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8 Cool School Holiday SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13 Mommy and Me Yoga Richmond University Medical Center 355 Bard Avenue 718-818-1234 9:15am • $10 • Ages 0-1

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran's Road West 718-605-3970 10am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

Baby Space St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby Bounce Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Kiddie Game Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street cityparksfoundation.org 3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8 Afternoon Story Time and Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Magic Tricks And The History Of Deception Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free • All ages Up-Cycle It! Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 10+ Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 Read Aloud South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • All ages Scary Story Club West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • All ages ABC Read with Me Picture Book Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 3-8 LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 5pm • Free • All ages

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14 NYRR: Open Run, Run for Life The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street

718-984-6046 10am • Free • All ages Itty Bitty Play Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11am • Free • Ages 0-3 Clay Day SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Read Aloud/Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • Ages 3+ Doodle ‘Bots Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Ages 12-18 Voice of the People Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street cityparksfoundation.org 3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8 Board Games South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • All ages Puppet Mobile: Tales of Brier Rabbit Tompkinsville Park Victory Blvd. & Bay Street 212-639-9675 3:30pm • Free • All ages Origami Wednesdays!

Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 6+ Family Story Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • All ages Family Storytime Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 4pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Bookcraft Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 4-8 Unstructured Activity Time for Kids St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Group Hike or Trail Run Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 6pm • Free • All ages

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

Childhood Apraxia Thursday's Child 348 Seaview Ave 718-980-1700 7pm • Free • Adults

Behind the Scenes at the Museum Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15

Kids’ Movie Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • All ages

Learn to Crochet Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 3am • Free • All ages

Toddler Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 • Ages 1-5

Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12 RUMC Nurses and Children Program South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • All ages

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MORE EVENTS & DETAILS ON SIPARENT.COM

MAGIC TRICKS & THE HISTORY OF DECEPTION Tuesday, October 13 Huguenot Library 3:30pm nypl.org

Have you ever pulled a rabbit out of a hat? Learn all about magic tricks and deception at this free event at the Huguenot Library!

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Family Film Night Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • All ages

Baby & Me Time West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Lego Club West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Harvesting and Using Herbs and Spices Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 1pm • Free • All ages

Homework Help St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

A Helluva Choir Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 1:30pm • Free • All ages Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+

The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 76 Saint Albans Place 718-984-6060 7:30pm • Free • All ages

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16

Birding with Friends of Blue Heron Mount Loretto State Park 6450 Hylan Blvd.

718-482-4942 9am • Free • All ages

Youth Matters: Body-Ody-Ody Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 10am • $10 • All ages Toddler Time Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 10:15am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Baby and Me Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 The Story Museum Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11:30am • $3 • Ages 0-5 Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free • All ages Light, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 3pm • All ages Family Yoga Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • All ages Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 3pm • Free • All ages Board Games St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3pm • Free • All ages Wii Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • All ages Leaf Printing with Linda DeCresenzo Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 4+ Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427

3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-11

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

Japanese Story Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Free • All ages

Art Studio SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free • Ages 2-10

The Halloween Spook-tacular Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 3pm • Free • Ages 4+

Crafternoon West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Krafty Kids Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 1pm • Free • Ages 4-10

Spooktacular Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway 718-442-3100 5:30pm • $20 • All ages

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17

Ranger’s Choice: Archery Willowbrook Park Eton Place and Richmond Ave. 718-698-2186 1pm • Free • All ages

Stargazing in Great Kills Great Kills Park Hylan Blvd. & Buffalo Street 718-987-6729 8:30pm • Free • All ages

Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18

Arts, Culture & Fun: The Public Theater Presents The Comedy of Errors Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street cityparksfoundation.org 1am • Free • All ages Tree Giveaway Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 9am • Free • All ages Cleaning & Maintaining Westerleigh Park Willard Ave., Springfield Ave., Maine Ave., Neal Dow Ave. 718-442-0336 9am • Free • All ages NYRR: Open Run, Run for Life The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 9am • Free • All ages Fitness Saturday Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • All ages

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MORE EVENTS & DETAILS ON SIPARENT.COM

RAPTOR FEST

Saturday Morning Cartoons West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 10:30am • Free • Ages 4+ Borough High School Fair New Dorp High School 465 New Dorp Lane 718-667-8686 11am • Free • All ages Kids & Kritters: Owls Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free • Ages 5-7 Alice Austen Open House Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 11am • Free • All ages Pumpkin Picking Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11am • $5 • All ages The Magical Herbs of Halloween The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran's Road West 718-605-3970 12pm • $3 • All ages Raptor Fest Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 12pm • Free • All ages

The Great American Harvest Fest Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 10am • $10 • All ages

Saturday, October 17 Blue Heron Nature Center 12pm www.preserve2.org/blueheron Cathy St Pierre and Bob Horvath do amazing work in rehabilitating raptors. They rescue and rehabilitate hawks and owls, as well as helping other injured wildlife. Come see their display of birds and watch them fly between 1-3 pm.

Kids’ Book Club St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 1pm • Free • All ages

Trail of the Month Hike Willowbrook Park Eton Place and Richmond Ave. 718-698-2186 10am • Free • All ages

Haunted Hikes Clay Pit Ponds 83 Nielsen Ave 718-967-1976 2pm • Free • All ages

Borough High School Fair New Dorp High School 465 New Dorp Lane 718-667-8686 11am • Free • All ages

Free Family Films New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • All ages

Alice Austen Open House Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 11am • Free • All ages

Open Craft Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 2pm • Free • Ages 6-16

Pumpkin Patch Joe Holzka Community Garden Barker St 212-788-7900 1pm • Free • All ages

Eating America Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages

Sea Shanty Sessions Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 2pm • Free • All ages Building the American Dream Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Yankee Cornhusk Dolls Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 2:30pm • Free • All ages Doggie Boot Camp Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds 1131 Manor Road 718-761-1423 3:30pm • Free • All ages Spooktacular Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway 718-442-3100 5pm • $20 • All ages The Night Sky Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

718-984-6046 7pm • Free • All ages

MONDAY, OCTOBER 19 Blood Drive Richmond University Medical Center 355 Bard Avenue 718-818-1234 7am • Free • Ages 16+

Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 All Join In! Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11am • Free • Ages 2-4 Pre-School Stories West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 3-5 Baby Space!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:45am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Wii Gaming Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 2:30pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street cityparksfoundation.org 3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8 Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 Read Aloud Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • All ages

The Halloween Spook-tacular Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 4pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Homework Help St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20 Mommy and Me Yoga Richmond University Medical Center 355 Bard Avenue 718-818-1234 9:15am • $10 • Ages 0-1

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran's Road West 718-605-3970 10am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Baby Space St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby Bounce Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Preschool Fun Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 11am • Free • Ages 3-5

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

Kids Minecraft West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Tween Craft New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3pm • Free • Ages 10-14 Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street cityparksfoundation.org 3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8 Afternoon Story Time and Craft 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 Haunted Halloween Kids Magic Comedy Show South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road

Origami Wednesdays!

Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 6+

ABC Read with Me Picture Book Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 3-8

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

LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 5pm • Free • All ages

Family Storytime Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 4pm • Free • Ages 3-12

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21

Bookcraft Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street

NYRR: Open Run, Run for Life The Conference House

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MORE EVENTS & DETAILS ON SIPARENT.COM

ELEPHANT & PIGGIE PICNIC Thursday, October 22 New Dorp Library 4pm nypl.org

Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+

21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • All ages

718-816-5834 4pm • Free • All ages

Oink oink! Enjoy Elephant and Piggy stories, activities, and yummy snacks!

298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 10am • Free • All ages

718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 4-8

Clay Day SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free • Ages 2-10

Unstructured Activity Time for Kids St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Read Aloud/Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • Ages 3+

Group Hike or Trail Run Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 6pm • Free • All ages

Voice of the People Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages

La Leche Virtual Meeting Google Hangout lllofstatenisland.com 347-432-1134 7:30pm • Free • Adults

Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street cityparksfoundation.org 3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22

Board Games South Beach Library

Learn to Crochet Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 3am • Free • All ages

Preschool Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-4 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 • Ages 1-5 Baby & Me Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby & Me Time West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Herbal Trees Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 1pm • Free • All ages A Helluva Choir Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 1:30pm • Free • All ages Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Behind the Scenes at the Museum Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12 Elephant & Piggie Picnic New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 4+ Kiddie Tech Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Lego Club West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Homework Help St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Movies South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4:30pm • Free • All ages The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 76 Saint Albans Place 718-984-6060 7:30pm • Free • All ages

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23 Toddler Time Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 10:15am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Preschool Story and Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-5 Baby and Me Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 The Story Museum Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11:30am • $3 • Ages 0-5 Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free • All ages Light, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 3pm • All ages Super-Cube Shuffle West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3pm • Free • Ages 8-12 Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 3pm • Free • All ages Board Games St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3pm • Free • All ages Wii Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • All ages Fun Fridays: Stories and a Craft Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 4+ Lego Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690

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

718-351-1611 11am • $5 • All ages

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

Art Studio SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free • Ages 2-10

Crafternoon West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Not Too Scary Halloween Party SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 6pm • $10 • All ages

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 Cleaning & Maintaining Westerleigh Park Willard Ave., Springfield Ave., Maine Ave., Neal Dow Ave.

Krafty Kids Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 1pm • Free • Ages 4-10 Nature Hike in Freshkills Park Schmul Park Wild Ave., Pearson St., Melvin Ave. (212) 788-8277 1pm • Free • All ages Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MORE EVENTS & DETAILS ON SIPARENT.COM

HARVEST FESTIVAL Saturday, October 24 Clay Pit Ponds Interpretive Center 11am-3pm nysparks.com

Join in a fun-filled day of scarecrow building, pumpkin carving, bobbing for apples, food, kids' nature activities, face painting, live animals, and more! We will be joined by numerous environmental organizations located throughout Staten Island. Bring old clothes to decorate your scarecrow. Admission is free.

718-442-0336 9am • Free • All ages NYRR: Open Run, Run for Life The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 9am • Free • All ages Harvest Festival The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran's Road West 718-605-3970 11am • Free • All ages Kids & Kritters: Spiders Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free • Ages 5-7 Egbertville Ravine Hike High Rock Park 200 Nevada Avenue 718-667-2165 11am • Free • All ages Pumpkin Picking Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave

1pm • Free • All ages Free Family Films New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • All ages Identifying Minerals Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 2pm • Free • Ages 6-10 Kiddie Game Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 2pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Eating America Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427

3pm • Free • All ages

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 Pumpkin Picking Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11am • $5 • All ages

Bowling Against Breast Cancer Bowl-A-Thon Rab's Country Lanes 1600 Hylan Blvd.

718-979-1600 1pm • $50 • All ages Fall Foliage Hike Bloomingdale Park Ramona & Lenevar Avenue 718-967-3542 1pm • Free • All ages Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages Building the American Dream Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Pumpkin Carving Workshop Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 2pm • $9 • Ages 8+ Halloween Shrunken Heads Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 2:30pm • Free • All ages Doggie Boot Camp Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds 1131 Manor Road 718-761-1423 3:30pm • Free • All ages Owl Prowl Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 6:30pm • Free • All ages

MONDAY, OCTOBER 26 Blood Drive Richmond University Medical Center 355 Bard Avenue 718-818-1234 7am • Free • Ages 16+ Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 All Join In! Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11am • Free • Ages 2-4 Pre-School Stories West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 3-5 Baby Space!

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

Wii Gaming Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 2:30pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street lllofstatenisland.com 3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8 Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 Read Aloud Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 4pm • Free • All ages Halloween Craft for Kids Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 4pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Homework Help St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-6

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27 Mommy and Me Yoga Richmond University Medical Center 355 Bard Avenue 718-818-1234 9:15am • $10 • Ages 0-1

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran's Road West 718-605-3970 10am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Baby Space St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

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

3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8 Afternoon Story Time and Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Preschool Program New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5 Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 3-11 Not-So-Scary Halloween Sing Along South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834

212-621-0690 11am • Free • Ages 0-3 Clay Day SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free • Ages 2-10

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

Read Aloud/Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • Ages 3+

Unstructured Activity Time for Kids St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Voice of the People Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street cityparksfoundation.org

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MORE EVENTS & DETAILS ON SIPARENT.COM

SPOOKY STORIES TO TINGLE YOUR SPINE Wednesday, October 28 West New Brighton Library 4pm nypl.org

A collection of not-too-scary folktales and stories from around the world featuring ghosts, witches, pumpkins, tricksters, spine-tickling circumstances and more.

3:15pm • Free • Grades 6-8

Baby Bounce Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

4pm • Free • All ages Scary Story Club West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • All ages

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

Turtles, Frogs, Snakes and Toads South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • All ages

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

Literacy Inc. Pajama Storytime St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-11

Origami Wednesdays!

Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 6+

LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 5pm • Free • All ages

Kiddie Game Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • Ages 6-11

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

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28

NYRR: Open Run, Run for Life The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 10am • Free • All ages

No Tricks, Just Treats: Halloween Story Time Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 4pm • Free • Ages 3-12

Itty Bitty Play Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue

Spooky Stories to Tingle Your Spine West New Brighton Library

Teen PASS Program Faber Park Kill Van Kull & Faber Street lllofstatenisland.com

976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5+

Group Hike or Trail Run Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 6pm • Free • All ages Childhood Apraxia Thursday's Child 348 Seaview Ave 718-980-1700 7pm • Free • All ages

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29 Learn to Crochet Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 3am • Free • All ages Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 • Ages 1-5 Baby & Me Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby & Me Time West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 The Magical Herbs of Autumn Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 1pm • Free • All ages A Helluva Choir Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 1:30pm • Free • All ages Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free • Grades 6+ Behind the Scenes at the Museum Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Leaf Printing Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3pm • Free • Ages 6+ Kids’ Movie Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • All ages

Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12 Halloween Party Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • All ages Halloween Program New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • All ages Lego Club West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Homework Help St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Haunted Greenbelt Walk High Rock Park 200 Nevada Avenue 718-667-2165 5:30pm • Free • Ages 10+ The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 76 Saint Albans Place 718-984-6060 7:30pm • Free • All ages

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30 Toddler Time Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 10:15am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

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

Halloween Hoopla Bloomingdale Park Ramona & Lenevar Avenue 718-967-3542 2pm • Free • All ages

Halloween Festivities Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 4+

Halloween Party Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 2:30pm • Free • All ages

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

Light, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages

Halloween in Richmond Town Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 3:30pm • $10 • All ages

Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 3pm • All ages

Cleaning & Maintaining Westerleigh Park Willard Ave., Springfield Ave., Maine Ave., Neal Dow Ave. 718-442-0336 9am • Free • All ages

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES MORE EVENTS & DETAILS ON SIPARENT.COM

HAUNTED GREENBELT WALK

Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Preschool Story and Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-5 Toddler Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-2.5 Baby and Me Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 The Story Museum Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11:30am • $3 • Ages 0-5 Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free • All ages

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31

Thursday, October 29 High Rock Park 5:30pm sigreenbelt.org

Learn about the creatures of the night and hear enchanted haunted tales. This moderate paced hike will last over one hour. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and insect repellent, and bring a flashlight or headlamp. Registration required.

Family Yoga Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • All ages

NYRR: Open Run, Run for Life The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 9am • Free • All ages

Spooktacular Celebration West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3pm • Free • Ages 5+

Fitness Saturday Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • All ages

Farm Stand Fridays Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-448-2500 3pm • Free • All ages

Pumpkin Picking Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11am • $5 • All ages

Board Games St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3pm • Free • All ages

Halloween Story Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 11am • Free • Ages 3+

Wii Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • All ages

Conference House Tours The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 1pm • Free • All ages

Haunted Hikes Clay Pit Ponds 83 Nielsen Ave 718-967-1976 2pm • Free • All ages Free Family Films New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • All ages Open Craft Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 2pm • Free • Ages 6-16 Eating America Tour Historic Richmond Town 378-410 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 3pm • Free • All ages Ghosts of Conference House The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-984-6046 7pm • Free • All ages

HOSTING A HOLIDAY FAIR IN NOVEMBER OR DECEMBER? Send fair info to jcintron@siparent.com (subject line: Holiday Fairs) to be on our Annual Holiday Fairs list!

CHECK OUT OUR FALL FUN GUIDE AT SIPARENT.COM! Pumpkin Picking, Halloween Events, Fall Crafts, Movie Lists and more!

WAS YOUR CHILD'S PICTURE WITH SANTA LESS "HO, HO, HO!" AND MORE "NO, NO, NO"?

Send us your Epic Santa Visit Fails and you might be featured in an upcoming issue of S.I Parent! Send your pictures to jcintron@siparent.com (subject line: Santa Fails)!

BIRTHDAY CLUB

Join S.I. Parent Magazine’s BIRTHDAY CLUB! Log on to www.siparent.com and click on the “Contests & Clubs” Tab

October OCTOBER 1 Anthony Mignano Timothy B. Lake Jr. Stella Vlastakis Casey Lonergan Julia MacPherson Matt Bocola Marquise Simon Kaylie Hynes Salvatore Ozone Giada Ozone Scott Sherman Justin Volkes Alexandra Coughlin OCTOBER 2 Amanda Melfi Adesola Belo Christopher Goetz Daniel Dakarai Louis Messina Anthony Martino III Melissa Sorrentino Emily Haberstroh Gianna Liatonio Dominick Carti Aneeq Rasheed OCTOBER 3 Jamelle J.M. Whitney Rebecca Maria Zinsley Emily McAlarney Stephen W. Magistro Eliajh Jenkins Salvatore Donato Angela Ruffino Daniel Gorbai Giovanni Villalobos OCTOBER 4 Rachael Katz Thomas Gillen Patrick Wood Ryan A. Fleming Akshay Rangaswami Erin Geraghty Mitchell Ducalo Ariana Hastaba Christian Lofters OCTOBER 5 Christopher Sambataro Jailene Fermaint Joselito Perez Jeremy Bodin Kyle Gravitch Jeremy Bodin Jordan Scitt Nicole Avitto Alfredo Jimenez OCTOBER 6 Christina Sobrado

Katelyn Cermenello Nicole Shaiovici Jillian Ferguson William Miller Michael Kumar Jack Badalamenti Gianna Jobe Bradan McGlyn Jack Badalamenti OCTOBER 7 Marissa D. Carrero Ziqin Yuan Louisa Galante Daniel Phillips Gianna Remini Issac Tirado Matthew Tirado Leah Grayce Goldstein Jaclyn Crockett OCTOBER 8 Michael E. Garcia Michael Sheehy Julia Rose Gonzalez Devon Newland Daniel Arce Ryan Primiani Cloe Stretton Joseph Lopez Nicolette Jade laino Christopher Carti Ella Savinon OCTOBER 9 Lee Domenick Goldman Allison Alvino Katherine Passaro Christina Baetz Kristina Nolan Jessica Lamberti Shane Kaminski Scott Zipprich Nicholas Monteleone OCTOBER 10 Michael Rotunno Debra Keiser Dana Keiser Victoria Lombardo Thomas Caccese, Jr. Ava Therese DeMuro Ryan Keogh Isabelle Hannah Christian Kranzke Christopher Monteleone Ava Therese DeMuro OCTOBER 11 Louis Carey Olivia Terlizzi Tiffany Kingsley Earl McClain

Caleigh Smith Jennifer Orjuela Jonathan Orjuela Chloe Katelin Williams Fantasaia Nikia McKenzie Ashlee Basich Alexis Ranieri Dean Bonici OCTOBER 12 Matthew Bellamy Amanda Rogers Olivia Mally Nicholas Diaz Magdalena Martinez Ashley Dannie Davis Adriana Somma Brooke Nicole McCloskey OCTOBER 13 Nino J. Carnesi III Samantha Sclafani Lauren Jimenez Alexxis Lugo Olivia Zito Kalique Mitchell Jennifer Alyssa Levy Adrianna Catanzaro Alexandra Napoli Francesco Vasquez Veronica Wankowicz OCTOBER 14 Alexander Uriarte Jason Snow Matthew William Buono Ryan McDermott Callie Quinn Azaria Astwood Victoria Van Drost Ryan Mauer OCTOBER 15 Lola Ademodi Sonya Ruth Meaders Gabriela M. Hernandez Jarrod S. Kostick Victoria Orlando Giovanna Nunno Crystal Ghany Tia Schioppo Mariah Camacho Rihana Lika Kayla Krasnopolski Jesse James Verner OCTOBER 16 Precious Edmonds Edwin Ocasio Jaylene Ocasio Brianna Rotunno Tyler Nanetti Logan Merrill

Zyaire Johnson Franceso Domenico Lanni OCTOBER 17 Robert Maratta Amber Wilkinson Samantha D’Angelo Cynthia Orlando Sarah Zaluk Ciara Joan Motta Molly Haberstroh Dominique Yancey Steven Grey Wolt Nirmeen Khass Evann Duran OCTOBER 18 Danielle Avenoso Adriana Marie Fasino Charles Rae Feliciano Nicole Liebman Sebastiano Liantonio Anna Liantonio Noel Ann Cataldo Sebastian Bonilla Jackson Nicholas Akko Tolbert-Francis, Jr. OCTOBER 19 Tammy Fastman Dayna Pillarela Michael Forster Danielle Keeler Jacklyn McNulty Gianna Marie Franco Christina Cardinale Ginamarie Febus Christopher Contino Jasiah Cole Nadia Roseboro Adrianna Rentas

Justin Piccirillo Nicholas Del Re Justina Cole Delilah Lopez Chloe Malone

Richard Saccomagno Kyrah McFarlane Joshua Benedetto Edward Medina Kayla Wepy

OCTOBER 22 Loren Rachel Lemberg Sydney Nicole Javois Johnna Blunt Andrew Fennell Matthew F. Perillo Steven R. Leguillou Mariah Metzger Giavanna Parrelli Victoria Solodovnikov Abraham Abril-Jimenez Chenoa Ebanks

OCTOBER 27 Luis E Martinex,Jr. Kachella Etchison Daniel Rivoli Dominique Impellizine Laura Lubrano Daniel Barbaria Lauren Elena Pacheco Frank John Martucci William Silva

OCTOBER 23 Matthew Paul DeSalvo Sara Elizabeth Walker Allison Perchman Raquel Shaul Robert Shaul Maya Burke OCTOBER 24 Brittany Brancato Michelle Decker Mary Fowokan Ty Lawless Blake Soto Matthew Ventrudo Thomas Powierski Samantha Todaro Lundyn Lombardo Joel Washington

OCTOBER 20 Rebekah L Gordon Zaina Sallam Maria Sophia Fiume John Murphy Robert Murphy Mercedez Green Taylor Craven Ryan Rodriguez Gabriella Florio Dorianna Griffin

OCTOBER 25 Vincent Pelluzzi Christine Nieves Joseph Charles Dominick Leonard Jazleen Ferrer Lainey Weathersbee Julianna Allegretti Shrika Lingala Dean Whitney Joseph Maglio Jazmine Williams-Natal Daniel Orotolano David Tobio Jr.

OCTOBER 21 Danielle Jacovino Julius Mennoh Cornelius Mennoh Ariel Davide Steven Ambrosio Victoria McGill Nicholas Lombardi Ian Roa

OCTOBER 26 Kasia Wilk Brittney Altieri Brittani Mazzeo Richard Palestri Nicole Martini Marissa Garzetta Alexandra R. Gullo Noah Salazar

OCTOBER 28 Taylor Akmal James Bitetzakis Wesley Kiecka William Kiecka Micheal Nieves Michael C. Spensieri Alexa Stewart Mario Nevarez Jr. Lisa Foreman Jumaninice Ebanks Erin Haupert OCTOBER 29 Connor HanaFee Matthew Betances Elizabeth A. Briguglio Francesca Pascale Brianna Grace Bove Melanie Nannetti NIcholas Curzio Melissa Aldorasi Olivia Page Henriquez Brody Lucci Thomas Weisberg OCTOBER 30 Eric Marc Flashner Dennis Callaghan George P. Caruselle III Nicholas Gofas Mohamed Ahmed Haithem Abdelhamid Joel Rivera Aurelie Henriquez Jeremy Williams OCTOBER 31 Robin Kaplan Vincent Passarelli Michael Putney Jenna Sannino Devin Rodriguez Jordan Vatter Skylar Swain Diego Bonilla

Birthday Club members are entitled to receive

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

FAMILY NEEDS Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s In The Cards

Interested in Advertising?

Call 718.494.1932 26 Years of Proven Results.

OCTOBER 2015

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DIRECTORY ONLINE NOW AT 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!

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We Bring the Fun to You!

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MOBILE SPA

347-248-9542 dpartyplanning@aol.com

Call for Packages

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Featuring DJ Chris Est 1985

(Excluding Sweet Sixteens or Weddings)

c: 718-986-6510 • p: 718-698-2712

PARTY TIME ENTERTAINMENT

~WE SET UP & CLEAN UP~

We Travel to Homes, Hotels, Party Halls & School Events for Children’s Parties, Proms, Bachlorette Parties, Sweet 16’s & More!

Games • Carnival Parties

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• Magicians • Face Painting • Clowns • Balloon Artists • D.J.’s •

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

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

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

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

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www.PartyTimeEntertainmentInc.com • 718.667.8998

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

• 5 year warranty on dental work

• One hour hygiene visit devoted to oral health

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

• 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 OCTOBER 2015

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

ADVANCED TUTORING

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

By Appointment Only • 1076 Forest Ave 347-850-2322 karengoldmansitherapy.com kl.goldman@yahoo.com NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor Treating Adults, Teens, Children & Families for Over 20 Years Evening and Weekend Hours

DR. VINCENT’S

Staten Island Family Music

MA, MS, Ph.D.

Specializing in Teaching Music & Music Therapy Special Needs Children & Adults Welcome

VOCALS • GUITAR • PIANO • DRUMS KEYBOARD • BAND • EAR TRAINING My Studio or Your Home • Reasonable Rates

718.344.2979

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

All Grades & Subjects K-12 NYS CERTIFIED TEACHERS READY TO WORK WITH YOUR CHILD

C: 718-755-3025 Ms. H.’s PlAce Small Group Tutoring & Enrichment

Grades 2-5 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

1-3 Students Per Class

$25

Per Hour

*Private Tutoring Available*

917.923.9044

151 Woolley Ave • Entrance on Garrison Ave

www.mshsplace.com

LEARN TO KNIT, CROCHET, QUILT AND OTHER CRAFTS IN YOUR OWN HOME For children and adults Children will love the structure of an informal setting to learn new and exciting crafts to replace the boredom that creeps in during the long summer vacation.

All Craft Materials Provided

A New Approach to Jarda L. Crane, M. Ed. Learning Crafts 718.880.0138 • jarstar2@gmail.com CALL TO FIND OUT THE NEXT STEP TO LEARNING YOUR HEARTS DESIRE!

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

718.494.1932 • info@siparent.com

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OCTOBER 2015

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FAMILY NEEDS Professional Directory

DIVORCE ATTORNEY

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

Hour Phone Service

Attorney at Law

www.krichardspc.com 718.720.1000

1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

COUNSELING SERVICES

ORTHODONTICS

Mindful Therapy Solutions LCSW PLLC Elissa Donner LCSW-R, CASAC, SAP COUNSELING SERVICES FOR CHILDREN & ADOLESCENTS AND EMOTIONAL RETREATS FOR THEIR PARENTS.

Children & Adolescents With Anxiety & Behavioral Challenges

We use many adopted remedying techniques

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy • Play Therapy • Coping Strategies • Calming Techniques

CALL US AND HAVE YOUR BUSINESS ADVERTISED HERE!

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

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

Individual, Couples & Family Counseling for Adults Too! Most Insurances Accepted

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718.966.0317

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718-494.1932

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Kim Williams-Jenkins

MILA SVERDLOV, LCSW-R

2 Convienent Locations

1749 Victory Blvd • 10314 8 Johnson Street • 10309

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

DIANE MILIO, L.C.S.W.

Member American Association of Orthodontists

LCSW-R, MSEd, CRC, CASAC

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Culturally Competent Compassionate Counseling

Specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, couples and families

Specializing in: Self-esteem, Depression, Family, Adolescents and Couples Issues

Over 25 Years Experience Most Insurance Accepted Evening & Saturday Appointments Available

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

718.317.5782

2504 Richmond Road • 10306

47 Lucy Loop • SI, NY 10312

917-613-4009

by appointment

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

SPEECH, OT & PT

SOME INSURANCES ACCEPTED

SPEECH, OT & PT

QUALITY CARE SPEECH CENTER, INC.

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

718.605.4301 3767 Hylan Blvd (Great Kills) Randi Pino M.A., CCC-SLP/TSHH, Director

www.qualitycarespeech.com

CLAIRE GUTTSMAN M.A., C.C.C. - SLP 1076 FOREST AVE. (corner of Manor Rd.) 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

718-608-1508

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

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

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

Psychotherapy integrating latest eclectic approaches.

Office in Dongan Hills

347. 424. 2638

Contact us to find out how our multidisciplinary feeding program can help your child overcome feeding issues ranging from the mild picky eater to more complex issues, such as failure to thrive, pediatric dysphagia, or the transition from tube to oral feedings. We turn mealtime for you and your child into a HAPPY and ENJOYABLE experience!

UTILIZING THE SOS APPROACH TO FEEDING

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR

718.356.6604

4056 Amboy Rd • 10308

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY ASSOCIATES OF STATEN ISLAND, PLLC PROMPT TRAINED THERAPISTS SOS FEEDING APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM & WILSON TRAINED THERAPISTS EAROBICS

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

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com NEW LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR LOCATION 718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308

SPEECH PATHOLOGY 718-967-0359 • 3767 Richmond Ave www.brightstartspeech.com brightstart@si.rr.com

• Private practice with energetic & talented Speech Language Pathologists • Extensive experience Now • Full range of services Offering (diagnostics & evaluations) Homecare • Occupational Therapy • NYS & ASHA Certified

Speech & Language Pathology, P.C.

• Multi-Lingual Therapists • NYC Dept of Ed Contracted Agency for Preschool & School Age Children

WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS. FREE CONSULTATIONS.

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

CALL US AND HAVE YOUR BUSINESS ADVERTISED HERE!

Most Insurances Accepted

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

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

718.494.1932

718-815-6024

ADVERTISER INDEX A Taste of Honey ................................12

Dr. Lisa Lazzara (Kids Dental) ..........59

Mabel’s Labels ..................................45

SI Community Tennis ........................57

Alphabet Academy ..........................21

Dr. Maryellen Romano MD..............36

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

SI Dental ..............................................93

American Karate ..............................42

Dr. Michael D’Anna ............................6

Mathnasium........................................39

SI Mental Health Society ..................78

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

Dr. Michael De Simone ....................35

Mickey’s Rides ....................................75

SI Pediatric Dentistry ..........................31

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

Dr. Michelle Giumenta......................49

Mini World Preschool ........................61

SI Technical High School ..................67

Barnes & Noble ..................................45

Dr. Phyllis Merlino DDS ......................52

Music Together of SI ..........................59

SIDDC SI Developmental Disability 61

Bay Ridge Preparatory ....................71

Early Start, Inc. ....................................55

New Dorp Christian Academy ......55

Showplace Entertainment ..............40

Beatris Family Kids ............................12

Evolution Dance Co. ........................42

No Limitz Gymnastics ..........................7

Silhouette Dance Center..................62

Big Bird’s Playhouse ..........................63

Fastrackids ..........................................19

Notre Dame Academy ....................69

Small World Dental ............................33

Brain Core Therapy ..........................58

Fun Station ..........................................23

Once Upon A Child ..........................56

Small World Preschool ......................46

Bricks 4 Kidz ........................................13

Gaynor McCown School ................68

Optical Arts..........................................14

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

Build n Care ........................................11

Genesis Fertility ..................................31

Our Lady Star of the Sea ..................78

St. Joseph by the Sea ......................70

Casa Belvedere ................................95

Gingerbread Learning Center........99

Party Jam ............................................79

St. Joseph Hill Academy ............37, 67

Castleton Hill Moravian Church ....61

Grade Power Learning ....................71

Pole Position ........................................63

St. Paul’s School of Nursing ..............49

Center Stage Dance Co. ................52

Happy Teeth Dental ..........................62

Prospect Hill Orchards ......................74

Suzanne’s Fashion Corner ..............39

Challenge Early Intervention ..........32

Hilton Garden Inn ..............................77

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

The Roadhouse..................................13

Children at Play..................................39

Hugs and Kiddies ..............................32

Richmond County Savings Bank ....2

The Stone House ................................10

Created By You, Inc...........................39

Inspirations in Dance ........................47

Richmond Hill Children’s Center ....46

The Village Preschool ......................35

CSI Center for the Arts ......................30

Iplay America ....................................73

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

Thursday’s Child ................................98

Curtis High School ............................70

Island Sensory Shoppe ....................14

Roller Jam, USA ..................................22

Total Dental ........................................47

Dance Dance Dance ......................56

Island Shores ......................................43

Ruby Falls Café ..................................13

Wagner College Athletics ................61

Dea Music ..........................................53

JCC of Staten Island..............16, 27, 41

Serena’s Catering Hall......................12

Wagner College External ................57

Delco Drugs ........................................58

Joseph’s Helping Hand ....................75

SI Academy ........................................65

Xaverian ..............................................68

Direct Behavioral Services ..............35

Kiddie Academy of SI-Great Kills....29

SI Audiological Servies......................49

YMCA of New York ..............................9

Dominican Academy ......................66

LA Dance ............................................35

SI Braces ..............................................25

Zion Lutheran Preschool ..................74

98

OCTOBER 2015

www.siparent.com

UPK/Pre-K For All Full Day Program

~Equal Opportunity Employer~

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.

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

Placement determined by NYC CPSE.

• NYS Approved Preschool Evaluation Site.

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

Not responsible for any typographical errors.

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

718-356-0008 WWW.GINGERBREADLCTR.COM ~TWO CONVENIENT STATEN ISLAND LOCATIONS~ 80 Woodrow Rd • 471 North Gannon Ave Email: gingerbread@gingerbreadlctr.com OCTOBER 2015

www.siparent.com

99

PRST STD

SOLUTIONS TO EVERYDAY PARENTING

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

www.siparent.com

U.S. POSTAGE PAID STATEN ISLAND, NY