Staten Island Parent Magazine October 2019

October 2019

siparent.com

SOLUTIONS FOR PARENTING IN STATEN ISLAND

HELLO FALL! PUMPKIN PICKING FARMS

+ Fab Fall Fun!

+ KIDS OVER EAT 300 FALL ACTIVITIES

STRESSFREE HOMEWORK TIPS

AND HALLOWEEN EVENTS

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PARENT

ESSENTIALS:

HIGH SCHOOL GUIDE

SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE 9/25/19 2:59 PM

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Advertiser Index page 63

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

contents

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Roselle Farina Hecht EDITOR Jeannine Cintron PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Michelle Yannaco TRAFFIC DIRECTOR Heather Gambaro

OCTOBER 2019

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ilene Cohen, Janine Mulé Jodi Fatto

Alina Marie, age 4

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Fall Fun Guide.

Halloween events, pumpkin farms and more!

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Special Needs Guide

INFORMATION Advertising: 718.494.1932 Questions: info@siparent.com KEEP IN TOUCH

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

Everything you need to parent a child with special needs.

38

High School Guide

It’s time to apply for high school! We can help.

raising kids 12 24 28 32 34 36 38

46 58 60

Stree-Free Homework Special Needs Resources Parenting a Child with Special Needs in Staten Island Dear Teacher: Real Advice from Real Educators Mike Reilly: The Mayor’s Proposed Education Changes Good Sports: Sports & Choosing a High School Everything You Need to Know About Applying for High School 11 Reasons to Attend an Open House Ten Fast Facts About Lice Professional Services

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23-TIME AWARD WINNING MAGAZINE

Member of the Parenting Media Association (PMA) Staten Island Parent is published 12 times a year. All rights reserved.

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

events & news

Pumpkin Picking Farms 8 Community and School News Halloween Crafts, Games & Recipes 18 Fall & Halloween Events Birthday Club 48 Family Calendar

A DAVLER MEDIA GROUP BUSINESS DAVID L. MILLER CEO

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Find Us On Facebook, Twitter & Instagram October 2019 • siparent.com

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events & news

What’s Happening Staten Island?

Read on for local news, major events, community updates and hot topics affecting families in Staten Island.

JOEY SON, THOMP 4 AGE

RUNNERS UP

Mackenzie Costello, age 5 & Patrick Costello, age 6

Francesca Roca, age 2

Kristen Blumenburg, age 7 Nicolette Blumenburg, age 10 & Louis Blumenberg, age 5

Robert A. Shuler, IV, age 3

Chace Ling, age 9

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PHOTO CONTEST WINNER

Congratulations to four-year-old Joey Thompson, who just started pre-kindergarten. Joey’s family will receive a $200 Target gift card for some serious back-to-school shopping.

Our contest is over but did you know you can send us photos of your e asked and you delivered! We received hundreds of gorgeous kids anytime you want? Next month’s cover kid could be YOUR awesome back-to-school photos - they were were rolling in child! Go to siparent.com/childphoto. all month long. It was almost impossible to choose a winner!

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COME TO OUR ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL ESToImV1A2-8Lpm FALeLr 2F 6 & 27 fr Octob ides, Picking, R Pumpkin , g in k a M Scarecrow ore! dors, & M Food Ven N IO S IS FREE ADM

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events & news FIRST P-TECH SCHOOL COMING TO STATEN ISLAND

Good news, teens! Staten Island will be the only borough without a P-TECH school no longer! Shortly after the new Schools Chancellor was appointed last year, Borough President Oddo reached out to propose a new six-year high school that would allow students the opportunity to earn an associate’s degree and receive hands-on work experience, the first of its kind in the borough. His request was officially granted last month. “Having a 9-14 P-Tech will provide hundreds of students on Staten Island with rigorous instruction and a path to a free Associate’s degree. This invaluable job training and college is central to our vision of Equity & Excellence for All,” said Chancellor Richard Carranza via Twitter.

2020 MIDDLE SCHOOL DIRECTORY & OTHER PUBLIC SCHOOL RESOURCES

Now that the new school year is in full swing, it’s time to prepare for what’s to come. The 2020 Middle School Directory will soon be

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LIPM available for download and serves as a resource for fifth grade students who will be graduating elementary school at the end of this school year.

To view the Middle School Directory, as as well find Gifted and Talented resources, middle school applications, information on the high school admissions process and other important information from the Department of Education, bookmark our Staten Island Public School Calendars, Directories & Resources page.

HOLIDAY FAIRS Is your school or organization hosting a holiday fair this season? The upcoming 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. Don’t let your school miss out!

SATURDAY SESSIONS

There can never be enough free youth programs in Staten Island, and here’s a great one. Saturday Sessions is a free program sponsored by the Richmond county District Attorney for children 11-17 years old, offering high-quality fitness training, academic support and advocacy services during traditionally higher crime times, on Saturday evenings. It is an environment for the youth to positively interact with community members and law enforcement while learning and advancing athletic skills. Program features include basketball, career counseling, hip hop dancing, academic support, recording studio sessions and more. The program is hosted in Stapleton at 230 Broad Street at the Gerard Carter Center every Saturday, 6-10pm until June 20. For questions, additional information, or to register your child contact Saturday Sessions Program Coordinator Morgan Mazzarella at Morgan.Mazzarella@ rcda.nyc.gov

STATEN ISLAND HALF MARATHON

The Staten Island Half Marathon is set for Sunday, October 13 this year, just four weeks before the famous New York City Marathon. The race features views of New York Harbor and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and is suited for runners of all skill level. It’s the final run of the New York Road Runners (NYRR) Five-Borough Series, which holds a different marathon for each borough throughout the course of the year: The United Airlines NYC Half, the Airbnb Brooklyn Half, the NYRR Queens 10K, the New Balance Bronx 10 Mile, and the NYRR Staten Island Half.

IMPORTANT SCHOOL DATES

September 30 – October 1 – Rosh Hashanah (public schools closed) October 9 – Yom Kippur (public schools closed) October 14 – Columbus Day (schools closed) October 30 – District 31 Middle School Fair 10 October 2019 • siparent.com

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raising kids

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LIPM TIMING IS EVERYTHING To establish good habits, you want to have a fixed and inviolable time for your child’s homework. Starting it too soon after coming home doesn’t give them any transition time. Most kids need to have a snack and unwind for a little bit.

But start it too late, and your child won’t be able to concentrate. Even a child who can be up until all hours playing on his tablet can’t focus on schoolwork past 6 or 7 p.m.

You want to find that sweet spot for timing, and then STICK TO IT NO MATTER WHAT! In my house this means that the kids come home, have a snack, and then do their homework before dinner.

MORE HOMEWORK TIPS

at siparent.com/hwhorrors

Stress-Free Homework

SUCCESSFUL HOMEWORK HABITS MEAN A SHIFT IN SCHEDULE AND ATTITUDE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

BY ESTHER PRANSKY

Esther Pransky is a teacher, writer and speaker with more than 20 years of experience educating all ages from preschool through adult. Esther is also the proud, but tired, mother of nine wonderful children and grandmother of two. In her spare time (!!) she likes to cook, read and is the CEO of a local non-profit food pantry.

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onfession: I always feel sorry for my children when they enter first grade. First grade means desks, report cards, and that dreaded word: homework. As a parent, I could do without it.

But I begrudgingly recognize that homework, besides reinforcing the lessons learned in school, also benefits the children in teaching time management, responsibility, and many other executive function skills. Not to mention that children’s achievements in school hinge on good homework habits.

I’ve found that for young elementary schoolers, parental attitudes and training will set the stage for their success for years to come. Here are the tips and tricks that have worked for my family and me:

BE AVAILABLE AND ATTENTIVE A huge part of your child’s ability to establish a set homework time, a habit that will only become increasingly more crucial, is your commitment.

Be home; be available; be attentive. This means no appointments, no phone calls, and no screens.

Put away your phone, iPad, or laptop.

For the youngest children, your guidance in finishing a task, double checking work, putting away materials, and moving on to the next task is invaluable training in crucial life skills.

Your help in answering questions and explaining instructions will keep your child from getting stuck and seeing homework as an insurmountable burden.

DON’T DO YOUR CHILDREN’S HOMEWORK This is the tricky part. You want to walk the fine line between being there for them and doing the work for them. You may even want your child to struggle a little bit on his own. My line, delivered with a smile, is always, “Sorry, but I already passed second grade.”

This gets even harder as the kids get older. I’ve attended school fairs where my children’s work stood out as amateur compared to the projects that were obviously done by the other students’ parents. Stay strong! No one ever learned anything by having the work done for them.

So how do you make yourself available, but not too available? My trick is to do a task that occupies my hands, but not my brain. While my children are doing homework, I can set the table, chop a salad, fold laundry, or nurse the baby. I am in the same room and totally present to answer questions and give guidance, but occupied enough to give the kids space to complete work on their own whenever possible.

Following these guidlines isn’t easy, but the payoff comes in lower stress and less homework time in the short-term, and academic and life success in the long-term.

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Elementary School

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We are so close to Staten Island that you can ride your bike*or walk across the Bayonne Bridge. *Bikes will be supervised in a secure area.

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fun stuff

fall fun guide >> farms Pumpkin picking and haunted hayrides…there really isn’t a better way to spend a fall day. Here are the best nearby farms for pumpkin picking.

Alstede Farms

Green Meadows Petting Farm

Argos Farm

Happy Day Farm

1 Alstede Farms Ln., Chester Township, NJ 07930 alstedefarms.com 1250 Lacey Road Forked River, NJ 08731 argosfarm.com

3159 Flatbush Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11234 greenmeadowsfarmbrooklyn.com 97 Daum Road Manalapan, NJ 07726 happydayfarmnj.com

Battleview Orchards

Hillsboro Farm

91 Wemrock Rd Freehold, NJ 07728 battlevieworchards.com

219 Hillsborough Rd Hillsborough, NJ 08844 hillsborofarm.com

Cheesequake Farm Market 2095 US Highway 9 Old Bridge, NJ 08857 cheesequakefarms.com

Delicious Orchards

Norz Hill Farm & Market 116 South Branch Road Hillsborough, NJ 08844 norzhillfarm.com

Ort Farms

Route 34 South Colts Neck, NJ 07722 deliciousorchardsnj.com

25 Bartley Road Long Valley, NJ 07853 ortfarms.com

Giamarese Farm

Prospect Hill Orchards

155 Fresh Ponds Rd East Brunswick, NJ 08816 giamaresefarm.com

73 Clarks Lane Milton, NY 12547 prospecthillorchards.com

Stony Hill Farm Market 8 Route 24 Chester, NJ 07930 908-879-2908

Stay in Staten Island

Terhune Orchards

DECKER FARM

Von Thun’s County Farm Market

MOUNT LORETTO PUMPKIN PATCH

330 Cold Soil Road Princeton, NJ 08540 609-924-2310

505 Ridge Road Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852 732-329-8656

Wemrock Orchard

Highway 33 & Wemrock Road Manalapan, NJ 07728 732-431-2668

Go to siparent.com/fall for more details!

441 Clark Avenue • 10306 historicrichmondtown.org Hayrides, Face Painting, Crafts, Corn Maze, Farmhouse Tours

6581 Hylan Blvd. • 10309 mountloretto.org Text FALL to 313131 for info.

October 21 and 22 only. Pumpkin patch, rides, games, food, music.

GREENSIDE UP GARDEN CENTER

2777 Arthur Kill Rd. greensideupgardencenter.com Corn maze, pumpkin painting, inflatables, baked goods, Halloween decorations.

PROSPECT HILL ORCHARDS

OPEN NOW THRU OCTOBER 20TH Enjoy a Hayride, discover how a Cider Press works, Decorate Scarecrows, FREE Fun For Pumpkin Families Paper Craft to take home & PICK YOUR OWN Apples & s ad Pumpkins i h t in

Bringr a FREE N fo MPKI U 6” P

JOHNNY APPLESEED CIDER FESTIVAL

Oct 19 & 20 10am-4pm

73 Clarks Lane Milton, NY 12547 845-795-2383 www.prospecthillorchards.com

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Grab your broom & fly over to siparent.com You’ll find these pumpkin picking farms, plus more fall and halloween events on siparent.com/fall. Don’t forget to check siparent.com/events for last minute event updates.

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505 Ridge Road South Brunswick, New Jersey 08852 Middlesex County

438 Route 57 West Washington, New Jersey 07882 Warren County

Fall Weekends at

HAYRIDES, APPLE & PUMPKIN PICKING, APPLE CIDER DONUTS, INTERACTIVE CORN MAZE, CORN CANNONS AND MORE!

OPEN UNTIL NOVEMBER 3 732.329.8656 Facebook: @VonThunFarms VonThunFarms.com

FALL AT STORYBOOK LAND OCTOBER 3-24 • VISIT SITE FOR HOURS

FEATURING NON-SCARY ATTRACTIONS FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES, HAY RIDES, HAY MAZE, AND PUMPKIN DECORATING (INCLUDED WITH EACH CHILD’S ADMISSION). ALL OTHER RIDES AND ATTRACTIONS ARE OPEN!

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Weeke ions! W d’s admission t a t s 5 2 il r h e c v h O 0pm eac d with 0am-5:0 Include ours are 11:0 Par k h 6415 Black Horse Pike • Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 • 609.646.0103 facebook.com/sbl1955 | Twitter @Storybook_Land | Instagram @storybookland_nj

StorybookLand.com

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fun stuff

fall fun guide >> events Pumpkin Picking at Decker Farm Saturday, October 5 – Saturday, October 26 • 12-5pm Historic Richmond Town 435 Richmond Hill Road 718-351-1611 historicrichmondtown.org Pick a pumpkin to take home, enjoy an old-fashioned hayride, hay maze, arts and crafts, pumpkin-chucking, fire pit and s’mores, scarecrow photo ops, beer and hard cider.

Greenside Up Garden Center Every day in October Monday - Thursday 12-6pm Friday 10am-7pm Sunday 10am-6pm Green Side Up Nursery 2777 Arthur Kill Rd. 718-967-5039 greensideupgardencenter.com Visit the Halloween Decoration & Gift Shop, plus corn maze, pumpkin painting, inflatables, baked goods and concession.

Greenbelt Annual Pumpkin Festival Saturday, October 5 12-4 pm Willowbrook Park 1 Eton Place 718-351-3450 sigreenbelt.org Meet the horses from NYC Parks Equine unit, learn all about the benefits of planting native plant species in your garden from the Staten Island Native Plant Society, and many more family-friendly activities and opportunities. Music with Patrick will perform near the pumpkin patch at 2pm.

Ghost Tour: Tale of the Matron Fridays, October 4, 11, 18 & 25 Saturdays, October 5, 12, 19, & 26 6pm Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 snug-harbor.org The Tale of the Matron is a historic walking tour and recount of events that took place at Snug Harbor in

Enter if you dare

HALLOWEEN

Party

Sunday, October 27th

A Not So Scary Halloween Celebration 12:00PM TO 4:00 PM Autism-Friendly Event St. John’s University 300 Howard Avenue (great lawn) Rain or shine FUN FOR ALL AGES! Proceeds to benefit The GRACE Foundation $15 bracelet per person to participate in the following: rides, pumpkin patch, crafts, music and trick or treating experience (wear your favorite costume) Extra cost for: food trucks, vendors, raffles, 50/50 and hay ride Contact: Cathy or Dolores at The GRACE Foundation 718-983-3800 Or visit www.graceofny.org

1863. You’ll enter three buildings that are typically closed to the public. Each space has its own unique connection with history, life and the afterlife.

S.I. Oktoberfest Saturday, October 12 12-7pm Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Avenue 718-280-1442 historicrichmondtown.org The Rotary Clubs of Staten Island and Rolling Thunder are organizing the Staten Island Oktoberfest, hosted by Historic Richmond Town.

There are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy: food, carnival games, entertainment, rides, bouncy house, live music, a DJ and more. All Proceeds will go to helping Veterans in need.

Halloween in Richmond Town Saturday, October 26 3-7pm Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Avenue 718-280-1442 historicrichmondtown.org Trick-or-treat at New York City’s most complete historic village.

Bob for apples, jump in the hay, and make an historic craft to add to your bag of fall goodies! Costumed interpreters and crisp fall air, all set against the backdrop of Historic Richmond Town’s main village site.

Clay Pit Ponds Harvest Festival Saturday, October 19 •11am-3pm Clay Pit Ponds 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-605-3970 ext. 201 parks.ny.gov/parks/166 Celebrate autumn and local produce at the sixth annual Harvest Festival!

Activities include pumpkin carving and painting, scarecrow building, apple bobbing, face painting, live music, educational activities, crafts, games, and more! Bring your own clothes to use for scarecrow building.

Wicked Westerleigh Gathering Saturday, October 26 • 11am-2pm Westerleigh Park 168 Willard Ave. westerleighparkscoalition@gmail.com Costumes, candy, music, games, activities, crafts, costume parade

and contest and more. Bring old clothes and make your own scarecrow to take home.

Forest Avenue BID 1st Annual Harvest Festival Sunday, October 6 • 2-5pm Forest Avenue from Oakwood Avenue to Bard Avenue 718-816-4775 forestavenuebid.com Join the Forest Avenue BID for a harvest festival closing off streets for everyone to play, walk and dine.

All children’s activities are free.

Each establishment will have its own enclosed seating located in the festival area.

Mount Loretto Fall Festival Saturday, October 26 & Sunday, October 27 • 12pm Mount Loretto 6581 Hylan Boulevard mountloretto.org Enjoy food, rides, games, contests, live DJ, scarecrow-making, beer and sangria gardens, plus the island’s biggest pumpkin patch.

Pumpkin Patch for Patients Sunday, October 6 • 9am-4pm Oakwood Heights Community Church 345 Guyon Ave. 347-201-9845 jaimeslilac.org A family friendly day with pumpkins for purchase as well as hay bales, mums, snacks, coffee, cider, and more. Free games and pumpkin decorating for kids.

Proceeds to benefit Jaime’s LILAC Foundation.

S.I. Zoo Spooktacular Saturday, October 19 and Sunday, October 20 • 5-8:30pm Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway 718-815-0412 sizoo.org Staten Island’s premier Halloween tradition for families! Must register in advance – tickets will sell out quickly.

A Not So Scary Halloween Celebration Sunday, October 27 • 12-4pm St. John’s University Great Lawn 300 Howard Ave. graceofny.org A sensory-friendly event featuring

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rides, food trucks, pumpkin patch, crafts, hayrides and trick or treating.

Halloween All Day Saturday, October 26 10am-5pm Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 sichildrensmuseum.org Wear your costume and join in Halloween-themed activities throughout the day.

Diwali Celebration Sunday, October 27 10am-5pm Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 sichildrensmuseum.org Celebrate the Hindi festival of lights with a special event.

Haunted History Hike Sunday, October 26 • 2-4pm Clay Pit Ponds 2351 Veterans Rd W. 718-605-3970 ext. 201 parks.ny.gov/parks/166 Meet ghosts of Clay Pit’s past in this interpretive history hike. For ages 10+.

Conference House Pumpkin Patch Sunday, October 6 • 12-4pm Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

718-984-6046 conferencehouse.org Music, refreshments, face

painting, seasonal activities, games and costume parade.

Terror on Lisa Lane Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October 6:30-9:30pm 9 Lisa Lane Fully interactive walk-through haunted house.

The Halloween God Haunted House Dates and Times TBA 18 Zoe Street Fully interactive walk-through haunted house.

Faboolous Halloween Brunch Sunday, October 20 10am & 1pm Harvest Cafe 694 New Dorp Lane 347-857-6888 harvestcafe-si.org Brunch buffet, pumpkinpainting and crafts.

Tunnel to Towers Bravest BBQ Saturday, October 12 12-5pm Hillside Swim Club 151 Signs Rd. 718-986-4587 bravestbbq.eventbrite.com Face painting, Chinese auctions, rides, games, pumpkin giveaways, fire trucks, rock wall and more.

Always call to confirm.

Dates, times, cancellations and locations are subject tochange.

Registration may be required for some events. Please call venue.

TEAL PUMPKIN PROJECT

Halloween is a different kind of scary for kids with food allergies. Placing a teal-colored pumpkin on your doorstep alerts trick-or-treaters that you have non-food treats available, such as glow sticks or small toys. Here’s how to participate.

• Provide non-food treats for trick-or-treaters: • Place a teal pumpkin in front of your home to indicate to passersby that you have non-food treats available • Add your home to the Teal Pumpkin Project map online • Spread the word! Share the Teal Pumpkin Project with your friends and family

CANDY BUY BACK

Swap some candy for something even better -- and benefit our nation’s troops!

KIDS DENTAL 4864 Arthur Kill Road • 718-356-543 PHYLLIS G. MERLINO 268 Todt Hill Road • 718-761-2090

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fun stuff

fall fun guide >> celebrations

BY DENISE MORRISON YEARIAN

Denise Morrison Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children and six grandchildren.

to the scarecrow and dressing him with one clothing item then tag the next player who does the same.

When the scarecrow is completely dressed, each teammate returns a second time to stuff straw in his clothing. The first team to finish making their scarecrow wins.

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hether you’re planning a bountiful harvest celebration or a creepy crawly Halloween party, these craft, game and food suggestions are fun, festive and easy to create.

CROP OF CRAFTS When doing crafts with kids in a group setting, plan a main craft with a short, second activity—for early finishers.

Black Cat Candy Jar. Place black electrical tape over the sharp edges of a tin can. Cover the can with black construction paper and glue in place. Glue two wiggly eyes to the can then use a thin paintbrush and white paint to draw a mouth, nose and whiskers. Draw and cut out a black tail shape and two triangular-shaped ears. Cut two smaller triangles from pink paper for the insides of the ears; glue to black triangles. Glue ears to the top inside edge of the can and the tail to the back side of the can. Fill with treats.

Jack-o-Lantern Pots. Buy various-sized terracotta pots and turn them upside down so the drainage hole is facing up. On yellow construction paper, draw and cut out two eyes, a nose and a toothy grin—the wackier the better. Apply Mod-podge with a paintbrush under and over the facial features then attach them to the pot.

Place a short, wide stick out of the hole to resemble a pumpkin stem.

Pumpkin Noisemakers. Paint a 12- by 1/2-inch dowel rod black; let dry. Trace and cut out two leaves using green craft foam then cut a small slit in the center of each leaf.

Draw a face onto the bottom side of an orange paper plate with a black permanent marker. Line up the face plate with a second orange plate, rims together and bottoms facing out. Use a hole punch to create holes 1-inch apart around the perimeter of both plates. Place dried beans and small jingle bells between the two plates. Also put the dowel between the plates, moving a short end of the stick above the facial features to represent the pumpkin stem and a long end below for the handle.

Sew plates together by lacing yarn through the holes. Push leaf slits through the short end of the dowel rods and secure with a glue gun.

GATHERING FOR GAMES Choose games every child can participate in, where no one is eliminated.

Broom Ball.

Purchase

half-sized brooms for each party guest and two different colors of seasonal garland. Decorate half of the brooms with one color of garland and the remaining half with the other garland to specify teams.

Establish goals at opposite ends of the yard, and divide the children into teams. Place a kickball in the center of the yard then give each child a broom to sweep the ball to his team’s goal. The first team to score five goals wins.

Ring around the Pumpkin.

Place three large pumpkins with stems in a line several feet apart.

Gather four hula hoops. To play, children should take turn standing behind the designated tossing line and try to ring the pumpkins with the hula hoop. The child with the most rings wins.

Scarecrow Relay. Separate children into two teams. Choose one child from each team to be the scarecrow. Place scarecrows at one end of the room, along with hay and oversized scarecrow-type clothing items. Teammates line up at the other end of the room. To play, teammates take turns running

SEASONAL SNACKS Food is more fun when kids are involved in the preparation process.

Stick with things children like to eat and add a seasonal twist to it.

Floating Faces. Core and peel an apple, then cut it in half. Lay one half on the table and use a paring knife to create facial features.

Repeat these steps until you have enough apple halves for each party guest. Place apples in cider punch bowl. When the cider is labeled, give each child a floating face.

Itsy-Bitsy Caramel Apples.

Cut lollipop sticks in half. Use a melon baller to scoop little balls out of medium-sized apples, making sure each ball has a section of the apple peel. Push a lollipop stick into the peel of each apple ball. Blot apples dry with a paper towel. Melt a 14-ounce package of caramel candies with 2 tablespoons of water. Have children dip and swirl their apple balls in caramel then roll in crushed Oreo cookies, nuts, sprinkles, nonpareils or mini-chocolate chips. Place on waxed paper to cool for 15 minutes.

Pumpkin Pancakes. Mix dry ingredients: 1 cup flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 teaspoons baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside.

Separate two eggs. Mix yolks with ½ cup of plain pumpkin puree, 1 cup milk and 2 tablespoons canola oil. Add dry ingredients. Beat egg whites until fluffy then fold into the batter. Pour ¼ cup of batter onto a greased griddle; flip when bubbles form on top. Kids can make jack-o-lantern faces using raisins, dried fruit, nuts, chocolate chips and whipped cream.

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Advertising Section

PARENTS RELY ON STATEN ISLAND PARENT AND SIPARENT.COM TO FIND SPECIAL NEEDS PROFESSIONALS

On the following pages you will find important special needs resources and Staten Island special needs professionals.

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SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE

Early Start – Home-based Early Intervention Program How is my child developing?

This is a question asked by many parents and caregivers.

At times, the answer to this question may be uncertain. If you have particular concerns about your child’s development, there are services available that can evaluate and address the exact areas of concern. If eligible, we can provide home-based therapy.

Early Start is an early intervention program that evaluates and provides therapeutic services for children, birth to 3 years old, who are suspected or are known to have developmental delays or disabilities. Early Start provides evaluations and services in the following areas: Psychology ABA/VBA

OT – Fine Motor and Sensory Integration

PT – Gross Motor

ST – Speech/language and feeding

Developmental – Infant Stimulation

Family Training

Early Start has been providing quality home based early intervention services for over 27 years. All therapists are certified, licensed, or Board Certified Behavior Analysts. Elise Vetere PhD., ABSNP is the Founder and Director. She is a licensed psychologist, is a Diplomate in School Neuropsychology, is currently involved in research involving early signs of ASD, and lectures on topics including “The Psychology of the Exceptional Child” and “Applied Behavior Analysis”.

Early Start is funded and regulated by NYC DOHMH. All children must be referred to NYC’s DOH in order to access early intervention services. If you are interested in having your child evaluated or have concerns to be further discussed, please call us at the numbers provided below.

_______________________________________

ELISE VETERE, PHD., ABSNP DIRECTOR LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST 718.887.5128 | 311 ei@earlystartinc.com

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SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS A Very Special Place avspny.org (718) 987-1234

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese catholiccharitiesny.org (718) 447-6330 Child Mind Institute Healthy Brain Network healthybrainnetwork.com (347) 934-2880 Committee on Preschool Special Education (718) 420-5788 Community Resources cr-si.org (718) 447-5200 Cooley’s Anemia Foundation cooleysanemia.org (212) 279-8090 Crossroads Unlimited, Inc. crossroadsunlimitedinc.org (718) 420-6330 Department of Education schools.nyc.gov (718) 390-1662 Eden II and Genesis Programs eden2.org (718) 816-1422 Elizabeth W. Pouch Center for Special People simhs.org (718) 448-9775 Families Helping Families Resource Recreation Center fhfnyc.org (718) 227-2171 Freedom From Fear freedomfromfear.org (718) 351-1717 Grace Foundation of New York graceofny.org (718) 983-3800

Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities opwdd.ny.gov (718) 494-0600

Person Centered Care Services 150 Granite Avenue, 10303 pccsny.org (718) 370-1088

Attention Deficit Disorder Association add.org (856) 439-9099

Jewish Community Center Special Needs Department sijcc.org (718) 508-5291

Richmond Behavioral Associates rbany.com (718) 317-5522 ext 3

Autism Asperger Syndrome (219) 662-1311

Lifestyles for the Disabled lfdsi.org (718) 983-5351 NY Public Library nypl.org (212)206-5400 Mastermind Behavioral Services mastermindbehavior.coom (732) 813-7333 NYC Department of Education School Based Support Team (Special Education) schools.nyc.gov (718) 935-2000 NYS Speech-LanguageHearing Association nysslha.org (800) 697-7542 New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) opwdd.ny.gov On Your Mark onyourmark.org (718) 720-9233 P.A.N.D.A.S. Network pandasnetwork.org Parent to Parent NY, Inc. S.I. Special Education Parent Center parenttoparentnyinc.org (718) 494-4872 Parent to Parent NYS Support and Connect Families of Individuals with Special Needs parenttoparentnys.org (718) 494-3469

Sunny Days, Inc. sunnydays.com (718) 556-1616 Staten Island Developmental Disabilites Council siddc.org (718 )983-5276 Vocational & Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities vesid.nysed.gov (800) 222-5627

Autism Society of America autism-society.org (800) 328-8476 Autism Speaks autismspeaks.org (888) 288-4762 Better Hearing Institute betterhearing.org (800) 327-9355 Cerebral Palsy Support cerebralpalsyguide.com (855) 329-1008

Wishes of Literacy Inc. wishesofliteracy.webs.com (718) 568-4177

Children and Youth with Disabilities nichcy.org

NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation cff.org (800) 344-4823

AHRCC New York City ahrcnyc.org (212) 780-2500

Allergy & Asthma Network/ Mothers of Asthmatics aanma.org (800) 878-4403 American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry aacap.org (202 )966-7300 American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy aamft.org (703) 838-9808 American Heart Association heart.org (800) 242-8721 American Speech, Language & Hearing Association asha.org (800) 638-8255

Dyslexia Association – NY Branch nybida.org (212) 691-1930 Epilepsy Foundation epilepsyfoundation.org (800) 332-1000 Feingold Resource Center for Attention Deficit Disorder feingold.org (800) 321-3287 Learning Disabilities Association of NY lda.org (212) 645-6730 Lighthouse International lighthouse.org (212) 821-9200 March of Dimes modimes.org (212) 353-8353

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SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE

A VERY SPECIAL PLACE, INC.

A Very Special Place, Inc., (AVSP) provides a comprehensive network of programs and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. With the guidance and support offered at AVSP, people of all ages find opportunities to achieve independence and self-fulfillment. Participants who utilize our services range in physical and intellectual abilities from highly functioning individuals who can live and work independently with minimal guidance/supervision to those who have profound needs.

AVSP was established in 1974 as a not-for-profit corporation and today serves more than 1,200 people in Staten Island, Brooklyn and Manhattan. It is the continued commitment of the agency to provide the highest quality programs with the intent of continually improving services. Through a system of comprehensive, yet individually tailored programs, participants and their families are assisted in meeting immediate needs, as well as in planning for the future.

Vast arrays of offerings are available depending upon the needs of the individual and what they wish to achieve. Services

include: day habilitation programs, employment training,

residential services, recreation programs, and after-school respite for children under the age of 18. Recreation programs include a Community Center, Creative Arts Program, and Teen Weekend Respite program. Also offered, assistance with Medicaid, waiver services and benefits, as well as in-home support with daily living. For those choosing Self-Direction Services, AVSP is a Fiscal Intermediary Agency that provides administrative and billing support to individuals and their families.

Our After School Respite Program is a center-based program that takes place five days a week which offers recreational activities such as, sports, crafts, games, karaoke, trips to the local park and homework assistance. These activities are chosen by the individual based on their personal interest and preference. The After School program encourages individuals to interact and build meaningful relationships with their peers through chosen recreational activities.

AVSP’s various programs and services work to address the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with a primary goal of promoting and attaining independence, inclusion, individuality and productivity. _______________________________________

718.987.1234 info@avspny.org 49 Cedar Grove Ave • 10306

avspny.org

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SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE Muscular Dystrophy mda.org (800) 572-1717

Richmond County Civil Court 927 Castleton Ave., 10310 (646) 386-5700

National Association of Anorexia Nervosa anad.org (630) 577-1330

Richmond County Criminal Court 67 Targee Street, 10304 (718) 675-8555

National Deaf Education Center clerccenter.gallaudet.edu (202) 651-5206 Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc. resourcesnyc.org (212) 677-4660

Richmond Country Family Court 100 Richmond Terrace, 10301 (718 ) 675-8800

SENSORY FRIENDLY MOVIE THEATERS AMC Jersey Gardens 20 – 651 Kapkowski Road Elizabeth, New Jersey 07201

Spina Bifida Association sbaa.org (518) 399-9151

AMC Freehold 14 101 Trotters Way Freehold, New Jersey 07728

Stuttering Foundation of America stutteringhelp.org (800) 992-9392

AMC New Brunswick 18 17 US-1 New Brunswick, NJ 08901

Tourette’s Syndrome Association tsa-usa.org (646) 389-1872 United Cerebral Palsy ucpnyc.org (800) UCP-CONNECT Center for Independent Living 470 Castleton Avenue, 10301 siciliving.org (718) 720-9016

LEGAL SERVICES Legal Aid Society 60 Bay Street, 10301 legal-aid.org (718) 273-6677

Richmond County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Line 152 Stuyvesant Pl, Ste 203, 10301 (718) 442-4500 Staten Island Legal Services 36 Richmond Terrace, 10301 legalservicesnyc.org (718) 233-6480

AMC Wayne 14 67 Willowbrook Blvd Wayne, New Jersey 07470 AMC DINE-IN Essex Green 9 495 Prospect Avenue West Orange, New Jersey 07052

SENSORY FRIENDLY THEATERS

Union County Performance Art Center Sensory Friendly Theatre 1601 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ 07065 Hamilton Stage: 360 Hamilton Street, Rahway, NJ 07065 ucpac.org/ sensory-friendly-theatre (732) 499-8226 TDF Autism Friendly Performances (Broadway) tdf.org/nyc/40/Autism-TheatreInitiative New Victory Theatre 209 W. 42nd St., Times Square Theater District newvictory.org (646) 223-3010 New York City Children’s Theater’s Sensory-Friendly Performances nycchildrenstheater.org/sfp sensoryfriendly@ nycchildrenstheater.org

SUPPORT GROUPS Child Mind Institute Healthy Brain Network healthybrainnetwork.org (347) 934-2880

Mastermind Behavior Services (732) 813-7333 mastermindbehavior.com National Alliance on Mental Illness namistatenisland.org (718) 477-1700 S.I. Mental Health Society simhs.org (718) 442-2225 S.I. Mental Health – Teen Center (718) 720-6727

MORE RESOURCES ONLINE siparent.com/directories/ special-needs

siparent.com/special-needsorganizations siparent.com/sensoryfriendly-movie-theatersand-theaters

AMC Bay Plaza Cinema 13 2210 Bartow Avenue Bronx, New York 10475 AMC DINE-IN Levittown 10 3585 Hempstead Turnpike Levittown, New York 11756 AMC Fresh Meadows 7 190-02 Horace Harding Blvd.

Fresh Meadows, New York 11365 AMC Shore 8 37 Wall Street Huntington, New York 11743 For more info on the above theaters visit: amctheatres.com/programs/ sensory-friendly-films

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Sunny Days Early Intervention Services Making the world brighter, one child at at time. Providing a full range of services: Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Psychological Services & ABA Special Instruction Services. We tailor these services to specifically target each child’s needs with an individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).

718.556.1616 or 311 1110 South Avenue, Suite 405 • SI, NY 10314

sunnydays.com

Congregation B’nai Jeshurun

congregation B’nai Jeshurun

CBJ Hebrew School is the only afterschool Hebrew school on Staten Island run by a special education administrator with a NYC-licensed special education Hebrew teacher on staff and fully integrated programs. By ulitizing differentiated instruction, learning centers and experiential learning infused in all of our programs throughout the day, our students with special needs, as well as our general education students, are provided a multitude of learning opportunities. Our curriculum includes meaningful prayer, Shabbat, holidays, ethics, history/culture, reading/speaking Hebrew and our unique connection to Israel. Through hands-on activities such as cooking, crafts and projects along with traditional and contemporary Jewish music, Israeli dancing and storytelling, our students enjoy a rich and diversified environment that helps our students feel connected to something special, the Jewish community.

Principal Rob 718.981.5550 275 Martling Avenue • SI, NY 10314

cbjsi.com

Proud Moments ABA We provide a haven of knowledge and expertise for parents of children with autism, as we encourage them to learn and grow under skilled, effective guidance. As a behavioral health agency, we service children on the autism spectrum from birth to age 21, offering ABA treatment at home or in school. Our Social Skills Group takes place on Sundays at We Rock the Spectrum Gym. Our highly qualified Board Certified Behavior Analysts/Licensed Behavior Analysts possess years of experience and training and utilize their extensive skills to improve social, behavioral and adaptive skills with individually tailored programs of therapy. We offer expert treatment, innovative techniques, and compassionate, child-centered care, scheduled at your convenience.​​

DEVORA FROMOWITZ 718.737.8145 49 Dewhurst Street • 10314

proudmomentsaba.com

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SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE

PARENTING A CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS IN STATEN ISLAND

BY CHRISTINE ALBANO

Chrstine Albano is a Staten Island writer and parent of three children who writes on a variety of topics, including education, healthcare, and recreational activities.

CHARLES CORRELL, AGE 8

F

rom the moment a parent finds out their child has special needs, they want to provide everything they can to enhance their social, occupational, recreational, and mental requirements.

Parents of children with special needs on Staten Island say there are a variety of programs to help provide early intervention, home-based occupational, physical, and speech therapy, and school-based services, among other resources, so children can learn to navigate a successful and independent lifestyle.

“I believe the services that center on the social needs of special needs children are extremely important because people, whether young or older, need to feel like they belong or are a part of something,” Pamela Smieya of Westerleigh said.

Her son Michael Smieya, age 9, was diagnosed with what was formerly known as Pervasive Developmental Disorder -- now classified as the autism spectrum -- at age 2.

“All of these programs are geared toward the socialization aspects of his autism, which is where he has the greatest difficulty,” she explained.

One of the most helpful resources Mrs. Smieya gained was a Medicaid waiver through the OPWDD (The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities), which opens a child up to receive a wide range of free services.

Her son Michael receives services through a local community center and several other organizations that cater to those with special needs. He also attends camp through one of these programs.

He also receives community habilitation services and attends a Saturday program as well.

“The process to obtain the waiver is a bit long and requires a lot of time and paperwork, however, it is well worth it,” Mrs. Smieya said.

Services can span a wide range of needs -- from medical, education, occupational, and recreational, she noted.

Resources and services for children with special needs are key in building social skills and confidence when they participate or benefit from local programs.

“They make friends who are like them and understand when they are having a meltdown or say something that may be off-putting to others,” Mrs. Smieya said. “It helps them to understand their own shortcomings so they can work on improving their social skills and they are able to go out in the world feeling comfortable in its surroundings.”

The Smieyas also utilized early intervention programs through the Committee on Preschool Special Education, which provides referrals to other local programs; and is funded by the NYS Department of Education for children three to five years old.

“All of these (organizations) have played a vital role in his continuing journey and success,” his mom Pam said.

For extracurricular programs, parents can design their children’s services since these programs are based on his or her Individualized Education Program, often called an IEP. An IEP is a document under United States law that is developed for each public school child in the U.S. who needs special education and is determined to have a disability or requires specialized accommodation.

It is tailored to the individual students’ needs and helps parents, teachers, and para-professional understand the students’ disability and how it affects the learning process based on four goals, including conditions, learner, behavior, and criteria.

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Eden II Programs The mission of Eden II Programs is to support people with autism throughout their lives to achieve their full potential through service, science, and passion. Programs and services include: Preschool, school, SEIT, SETSS, adult services, residential services, community habilitation, respite, afterschool recreation, consultation support, and various other supports and programs for children and adults with autism spectrum disorders.

EDEN II PROGRAMS

Agency Headquarters | 15 Beach Street • 10304 facebook.com/eden2programs twitter.com/Eden_Two instagram.com/eden2programs/ youtube.com/user/EDEN2Programs

eden2.org

The GRACE Foundation

We are proud to support, educate and enhance the lives of children, teens, young adults, and their families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The GRACE Foundation provides many innovative and progressive programs/services for individuals impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Whether GRACE is encouraging responsible choices, artistic talent, life skills, physical/team activities, promoting heightened social abilities and/or communication skills, we strive to impart dignity, opportunity and self-esteem in all that we offer.

THE GRACE FOUNDATION 718-983-3800 460 Brielle Avenue • 10314 facebook.com/graceofny.org

graceofny.org

Mastermind Behavior Services At Mastermind, we believe that every child with Autism is filled with potential beyond the skills demonstrated. We view our responsibility as uncovering the potential of the child’s fullest capabilities. Our expert BCBAs begin with a thorough evaluation of your child’s abilities. Once the evaluation is completed, your BCBA will develop a treatment plan that matches your child’s areas of need. Following insurance authorization, ABA therapy will begin in your child’s natural home environment, under the guidance of skilled and effective therapists. Every phase of our evaluation and therapy is based on the principles of ABA and is completely evidence and research-based.

MASTERMIND BEHAVIOR SERVICES 732.813.7333 info@mastermindbehavior.com

mastermindbehavior.com

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SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE Mrs. Smieya said the extracurricular services are an extension of whatever children are currently getting in school or through early intervention.

Besides educational and extra-curricular services, children with special needs qualify for community habilitation services, which is focused on giving participants personal, social and vocational support needed to live in their community.

Community habilitation includes adaptive skill development, assistance with daily living, community inclusion and relationship building, training and support for independent travel, transportation, adult educational supports, development of social skills, leisure skills, self-advocacy and informed choice skills, as well as appropriate behavior development to help the individual access their community.

It was the most helpful to the Smieya family as a means of giving Michael assisted independence.

“Our (community habilitation) worker comes and takes Mike to the park or the movies or sits and does his homework with him,” Mrs. Smieya explained. “When she is there, it frees up some time for my husband and I to give our other children some one-on-one time -- or even spend time with each other, which is rare when you have a child with special needs.”

Angela Vomero’s son, Michael, hit every physical milestone like any other child, so it was difficult to recognize until 14 months old that he was not communicating like a toddler would.

His own frustrations with communication -- and Mrs. Vomero’s growing concerns -- led to examinations by three pediatricians and a diagnosis of PDD and infantile autism at less than two years old, followed by participation in an infant and toddler program.

“Today more and more pediatricians are trained in the awareness of autism and other diagnoses that are on the spectrum, but when my son was diagnosed about 21 years ago, there weren’t many who were familiar with autism,” the West Brighton resident said of her son who is now 23 years old.

She stressed that early intervention is key -- as Michael received home-based services for speech, occupational therapy, and physical therapy as a toddler -- and was later enrolled in a special education class where he continued to receive all three services from kindergarten through eighth grade.

catering to older children with special needs and aims to get them living and working independently.

Today, Michael studies political science in college and lives on his own, cooks for himself, cleans the house, has a driver’s license, knows how to balance his checkbook and pay his own bills, according to his mom.

PARENTAL NETWORKING

CHLOE DALY, AGE 10

In high school, he had a combination of mainstream and special education classes and was assigned a paraprofessional.

Like Mrs. Smieya, Mrs. Vomero utilized a program providing an “array” of information and resources.

For example, parents of young children are entitled to respite services through networking with some organiztions, which Mrs. Vomero highly recommends as well.

Respite care is short-term care for a child or adult that allows the primary caregiver to take a break on a weekly or monthly basis.

“We need a little time to ourselves -whether it’s to get your nails done, go food shopping or just take a nap or read a book -- and it’s a way of recharging our batteries,” Mrs. Vomero said.

“We are so busy as parents running around making phone calls to get our child every service they’re entitled to, that it becomes emotionally and physically draining on us,” Mrs. Vomero continued. “Respite services are more for the parent than the child -- but they are qualified to babysit your child or be a buddy to your child while you connect again with yourself because the next day you’re back to being a warrior mom or dad.”

Families also benefit from programs

In addition to the local resources on Staten Island, parents of children with special needs are their own wealth of knowledge for fellow Staten Island parents, according to Mrs. Smieya.

“My knowledge with regard to additional support services had come from other parents,” Mrs, Smieya said. “My advice to parents going through this is to ask questions and be your child’s biggest advocate. Talk to the other parents, they are full of information -- and share it as well if you are privy to it.”

“You are all going through the same things, so help each other out if you can,” she added.

“Being the parent of a child with special needs can at times be exhausting and time consuming and sometimes due to this, you neglect your spouse or your other children,” Mrs. Smieya said. “This gives us the opportunity to spend some one on one time with each other as a parent or spouse.”

Overall, parents of children with special needs value the resources and services available on Staten Island and view them as crucial to their children’s independence and successful futures.

“A parent is the first line of defense and I am my son’s biggest cheerleader and advocate,” Mrs. Vomero said. “If I hear of something out there that I think can help him, I’m all over it,” she added.

But, parents also realize they can only help their children so much.

“We want our child to be able to navigate this world on his own,” Mrs. Smieya said.

“We will not be here forever, unfortunately, so we need to know we are doing everything in our power to prepare our child for this world -- with and without us.”

Mrs. Vomero agreed. “When they’re little, parents, including myself, thought we could insulate them -- and for the most part we were there world,” she said. “But, as they get older, we realize that we don’t have the skills or the knowledge they need to learn -- and we’re not going to be around forever.”

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SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE COUNSELING

CULTURALLY COMPETENT COMPASSIONATE COUNSELING, PLLC My practice seeks to respect, encourage and support the pursuit of personal growth and fulfillment of all individuals, regardless of age, race, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status.

Kim Wlliams-Jenkins, LCSW

15 1st Street • 2nd floor • 10306 917.837.1317

PRESCHOOL

VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA In a loving, nurturing environment and positive atmosphere, we provide quality special educational services to children with developmental delays.

We are approved by NYS Edcuation Department and contracted with the NYC Dept. of Ed. Services include: speech, occupational, physical therapy, counseling, ABA & more.

Margaret Sacca, Education Director 718.984.7900 Located in Tottenville

SERVICES

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

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

PRESCHOOL

EASTERSEALS CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER Now enrolling PreK-3. Full-day school with lunch & afternoon snack daily.

NYC DOE curriculum and support services including certified teachers, assistants and administrators. Nurse on staff. No tuition. We are also an NYSED approved evaluation site and offer special education preschool services.

Angela Torres

80 Woodrow Road • SI, NY 10312 718.986.2760 914.263.2384

SERVICES

CLAIRE GUTTSMAN, MA CCC-SLP Speech and language pathologist with over 40 years of experience. Services on an individual and/or group basis for all ages. Also providing accent reduction and public speaking programs on an individual basis. Approved by the NYC DOE for CPSE & RSA cases.

Fees reviewed on an individual basis.

PRESCHOOL

JCC FIRST FOOT FORWARD The JCC of Staten Island offers First Foot Forward as part of our continuum of services for people with disabilities. First Foot Forward is a special education preschool program which provides services for children with speech/language, motor, and cognitive delays.

Jayne Smith, Chief Program Director

718.475.5265 • jsmith@sijcc.com 1466 Manor Road • 1297 Arthur Kill Road 2221 Richmond Avenue

SERVICES

STATEN ISLAND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES COUNCIL We assist in the planning, promotion, & development of support & services for individuals with intellectual & developmental disabilities & their families. We ensure the best possible quality of life for Staten Islanders with special needs through advocacy & relevant information.

Claire Guttsman, MA CCC-SLP

718.983.5276 930 Willowbrook Road • Building 41A • 10314 Angela Edwards, Administrative Assistant Marissa Corio, Information & Outreach Coordinator facebook.com/siddc.org

SERVICES

SPORTS

1076 Forest Avenue • SI, NY 10310 71.447.5501

QUALITY CARE SPEECH NYS Licensed Speech Pathologists.

Occupational & Physical Therapists; Evaluation & Treatment of Pediatric Speech, Language, Feeding, Oral, Fine & Gross Motor Disorders; PROMPT; Russian Bilingual Services; Sensory Gym; Dept of Ed Provider (CPSE & RSA); Primary Designation for Physical Therapy; Top Tier for Speech & OT.

Randi Pino, Director M.A., CCC-SLP/TSHH

3767 Hylan Blvd (Great Kills) 718.605.4301 • qualitycarespeech.com

AMERICAN KARATE OF STATEN ISLAND Classes for high functioning special needs children 3+. We work on discipline, confidence, attention span and help kids focus in school, home, and social settings. Please call us for a free introductory class for your child. Our state-of-the-art facility is in the Best Buy shopping center – ample parking.

2795 Richmond Avenue • 10314 718.761.7366 • karate10314@hotmail.com americankarateofstatenisland.com Instagram: karate10314 • Twitter: karatesi10314 Facebook: karate10314

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raising kids

SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE See Page 22

Important Educational Questions EDUCATORS WEIGH IN ON CURRENT TOPICS

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

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

Question: How can I learn the most about how my children are really doing in school at their conferences? – Curious Answer: Assuming your conference is with a teacher who is well-prepared for a conference, you should be learning test results, seeing some papers and hearing about a child’s strengths and weaknesses both academically and socially. In this case, your major role is to be a listener and to avoid interjecting social chit-chat that takes away from the limited time devoted to a conference.

However, do tell the teacher about any family events that could be affecting a child’s performance in school such as illness, divorce or death of a close relative.

At the end of a conference, there is usually time for you to ask questions and give additional input about your child. For this segment of the conference, preparation is absolutely essential. The first thing that you want to do is to get input from your child. Begin by asking him or her if there is anything special that the child wants you to talk about with the teacher. It is important that you point out that the purpose of parent/teacher conferences is to help the child do well at school.

Don’t rely on your memory, but take notes outlining what your child says. Should the child have no suggestions, you may want to ask questions about what subjects are favorites or trouble spots, who are friends and if there are any bullying issues. It is also not a bad idea to ask the child what he or she would like to change about the school day.

Assuming teachers are not giving the usual basic data about a child that parents expect, it is wise to prepare a list of questions listing the topics that you want covered.

There are some further cardinal rules that ensure parents will have a good conference.

They should arrive on time, leave when the conference is over – not cutting into the next parent’s time, and not be combative. And if there are problems, another conference should be set up to look for ways to resolve them. It is not likely there will be sufficient time to resolve any serious difficulties at this initial conference.

Question: Why is teaching rhyming so important when teaching children how to read?

- Puzzled

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LIPM Answer: Research shows that young children learn to read faster if they are enjoying themselves. Using rhyming words to teach them to read definitely makes reading fun. All children love the rhyming word approach to learning to read. Also, rhyming words help kids to develop phonemic awareness and to learn how to break larger words into syllables.

Dear Teacher has done extensive research and developed apps that will teach your children to read using the fun rhyming word approach. By using our Dear Teacher Skinny Books your children will start reading right away and quickly master basic phonics.

Go to dearteacher.com and you can link directly to the app store and your children will be learning to read with Skinny Books the Word Family Readers. There are two Skinny Book apps. The first app will help your kids learn to read more than 200 rhyming words and 37 basic sight words. The second app Skinny Books 2 will help them learn an additional 200 rhyming words and 18 new sight words. In addition, they will have learned almost every consonant sound giving them an excellent start in becoming both readers and spellers.

One great feature of these books is that you’ll know that they have mastered all the story words as there are no picture clues. In addition, children will find the stories quite entertaining.

On the Dear Teacher website, you will be able to download free worksheets that accompany the word families stories to reinforce your children’s reading skills. Additionally, by entering in the keyword “rhyming” you will find over three pages of columns that we have written explaining the importance of rhyming words for children. Some of the articles you will find are: • Helping First Grader Learn to Read • Describing Phomenic Awareness • Getting off to the Right Start in Reading • How to Start Teaching Young Children to Read Question: What pitfalls should you be aware of in the apps your children are using? - Avoiding Dangers Answer: You definitely want your children to enjoy using their electronic devices, but you also want to protect them from the drama of cyberbullying and oversharing. Keep in mind that most apps do build in features to disable things that could be a possible danger to young users.

You should try all apps that your children have to make sure that the app is using appropriate language for the age of your child and not posting explicit stuff, especially when your child is using social media apps.

Remember your child’s location can be tracked within a city block and a post may even include your location.

So, make sure to turn off location settings on a phone and in an app. Plus, check to see if previous posts include location information and delete any you find.

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Photo credit: schools.nyc.gov

NOT A SMART MOVE?

Advisory Group Recommends Eliminating Gifted and Talented and Screened Programs

BY MICHAEL REILLY NYS Assemblyman, previous District 31 Community Education Council President and former New York City Police Department Lieutenant.

he School Diversity Advisory Group appointed by Mayor de Blasio recently issued several recommendations to promote diversity in New York City Public Schools. The NYC Public School system is the largest district in the country and is known as one of the most segregated school districts.

The City’s school system, which has an estimated 1.1 million students enrolled in Kindergarten through 12th grade is considered one school district under the State Education Department. NYC DOE is unique in that it aligns the system into 32 local geographical Community School Districts throughout the five boroughs.

In addition, it has a separate district for students with special needs and another for students who need additional support based on behavior.

The elementary, middle and high schools in each district have zoning lines that determine student enrollment based on where the students reside. This enrollment system therefore will reflect the race, ethnicity and other characteristics of the families that live within the area. When analyzing and reflecting on this data we must also consider other factors that may impact the makeup of the local zoned school. Private or Charter schools, for example, are one aspect that may impact the makeup of a local community or middle school.

Some families choose to have their children test for the gifted and talented program. The gifted and talented program classes are in select community schools. The placement in this program is based on the student’s performance on the test. The Advisory Group has recommended phasing out the Gifted and Talented programs. Although I appreciate the intent of the Advisory Group’s recommendation, I believe the recommendation to scrap it is misguided.

Gifted and Talented programs provide opportunities for students who excel academically.

This challenge encourages students to strive and realize their full potential. The Advisory Group recommends replacing these programs with enrichment in all schools. While I agree enrichment should be in all schools, it should not be at the expense of eliminating the Gifted and Talented program.

Here in Staten Island we have had a Gifted and Talented program in several of our schools. As the largest geographic district, and the only one that encompasses an entire borough, there has always been an obstacle for families considering Gifted and Talented. Often, the location of the programs creates a challenge based on the distance. It is worth noting that NYC DOE does not provide yellow school bus service to students who attend

gifted and talented programs outside their zoned schools.

While I was a member of Community Education Council 31 there were several requests over the years to bring more gifted and talented programs to the Island. These requests were often raised by families on the North Shore.

Although we were successful in securing a Middle School Scholars Program in four middle schools across the borough, the interest in testing for an elementary level Gifted and Talented did not support adding additional seats.

Another diversity issue that has been highlighted involves the Specialized High School Admission Process, which is also test based. The Advisory Group did not issue a recommendation regarding Specialized High Schools.

In addition, the Advisory Group recommended eliminating “Screened’ middle and high school programs. Screened programs provide opportunities for students to attend schools outside their traditional zoned school. The Screened programs utilize multiple measures to rank students for possible enrollment, the selection measures include; report card grades, state test scores, absences and lateness. These factors provide a composite score ranking. The Group recommended that student absences and lateness not be considered in student placement into programs.

This recommendation has the potential of counteracting the intent of expanding diversity in our schools. An example would be if a student resides outside the New Dorp High School district but wishes to attend the Math and Science Institute, their opportunity to attend would be significantly reduced because the seats would be reserved for zoned students, depriving students outside the New Dorp zone from gaining admission.

Eliminating the focus on attendance and lateness will remove self-accountability and devalue the importance of being present and on time. Two important factors that foster the real intent of College and Career Readiness.

It is my belief that the NYC Department of Education should focus on increasing resources and opportunities in community schools that have historically had a lower representation in Gifted & Talented, Screened Programs and Specialized High Schools.

All views expressed are that of the author and do not necessariily represent the opinions of Staten Island Parent. Go to siparent.com/ contact-us to send us your thoughts and questions.

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LOOKING FOR HIGH SCHOOLS? See Page 38

Looking for a sports program?

Visit siparent.com/afterschool-programs/sports While little Brianna Pugliese is still years from choosing a high school, her obvious love for soccer might influence her choice someday!

Scoring High

SHOULD SPORTS BE CONSIDERED WHEN CHOOSING A HIGH SCHOOL?

BY JOE LOVERDE

A local sportswriter and coach for youth sports on Staten Island for nearly 40 years. Read more sports advice at siparent.com/goodsports

I

f your young athlete is getting ready to choose a high school, should his or her sports goals factor into that decision? After all, if they hope to play a sport in college, the sports opportunities they get in grades 9–12 could have a huge impact, and even help pay for their education.

What factors should you concern yourself with? Should the sports program at a high school even be considered. While academics should be the primary reason your child goes on to college, sports participation can be helpful in many ways. And while travel sports programs do provide exposure to colleges, playing on a high school sports team can play a role in your child’s college application as well.

If you are factoring sports into the decision, your child’s talent level compared to the rest of the competition in a program should be something worth considering. Unless your child is an elite player, going to the high school with the best soccer program might not necessarily be the right approach if your child is hoping to play on the soccer team.

Let’s say your child is the second-best goalkeeper on Staten Island, but the high school of his or her choice already has the best goalkeeper, and that player is a freshman. The other athlete will most likely receive most of the playing time at least until he or she graduates, which would curtail your child’s chances to impress college coaches.

Also, if your child chooses a school with a large student enrollment, there is a good chance there will be lots of competition for a spot on the team and, ultimately, playing time.

College coaches will want to see how your child performs in games. If he or she doesn’t play much, the statistics will show it. If there isn’t a track record of significant playing time from high school, college coaches are unlikely to feel your child will fit in with the program.

Many high school freshmen may still have a good chunk of growing to do during their four years. If your athlete is going to enter high school on the smallish side, going to a school with a smaller enrollment and a smaller sports talent pool will give them a better chance of being noticed.

When visiting high school open houses this fall, approach the coaches and ask how many students usually go out for the team and what your child’s chance of making the team would be. Also, try to get a feel for whether or not the coach would be fun to play for and fair regarding opportunities to play.

While participation on the high school team has a role in getting the opportunity to make a team in college, don’t let sports be the primary reason. Don’t lose sight of the academic part of choosing a high school.

Not every college star or professional athlete played high school sports. Kevin Labanc of New Dorp, currently starring for the San Jose Sharks, didn’t play high school hockey, for instance.

Travel sports have gotten so huge that they provide another opportunity to get noticed by college coaches. There are showcase events and tournaments that college coaches or scouts attend for the specific reason of finding athletes for their program.

Just make sure your child is playing somewhere. A good travel program will also provide a website with statistics where a college coach can get a fuller picture. Also, many young athletes are creating YouTube pages or videos where their skills can be seen by a coach from the comfort of his office at the school, and can lead to a closer look later.

Playing on your high school sports team can make your child’s time in high school more enjoyable and provide other benefits.

But as former New Dorp High School baseball coach and athletic director John Pecoraro always said, “When you say ‘student athlete,’ student comes first.”

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high school guide

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW ABOUT

APPLYING FOR HIGH SCHOOL

BY JEANNINE CINTRON

Jeannine Cintron is a Staten Island mom of two who will NEVER be ready for high school!

It’s hard to believe, but your little one is not so little anymore. He or she will be applying for high school this fall! Where has the time gone, you ask? We can’t help you there. But we CAN give you a little help with the often-confusing application process.

S

letter from the Department of Education to your home offering some o you’re looking at the application, which claims to be offered helpful instructions on the application process. in at least five different languages, yet even the English version isn’t making much sense.

When can you apply? The deadline to apply is It says there are over 700 programs in over 400 high December 2, 2019. If your child doesn’t receive an offer schools available to New York City public school students. or is unhappy with his offer, then he will have another HIGH Where on earth do you begin? We’ve broken down the opportunity to apply (Round 2) in March.

SCHOOL who, what, where, when, why and how of everything If your child is planning to apply for any of New you really need to know.

OPEN HOUSES York City’s nine Specialized High Schools (except at for Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Who can apply?Any child who is a current eighth siparent.com/highschools Art and Performing Arts), he will need to register for grader and a resident of New York City is eligible to the SHSAT test by October 10, 2019. Students applying apply for a NYC public high school for the 20-20-2021 for LaGuardia must submit a portfolio and audition to be school year. You should have already received a welcome considered.

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high school guide What are my options? Here in Staten Island, there are 11 district high schools with over 50 programs available, plus one Specialized High School program. There are over 4,000 seats available to 9th graders on the Island, but you can apply anywhere within the five boroughs.

New York City public students have more school options available than anywhere else in the country! Some programs cater to specific interests and skills while others are more beneficial to students who are new to the country. Thre are programs that focus on creating specific learning environments.

As we mentioned earlier (and can’t stress enough) attending open houses is a MUST. Visiting a school is the best way to explore if it may be the right place for you. It’s also a great way to see how long the trip is from home. You can contact schools directly to find out if they have special events or student-guided tours, but plan to attend as many open houses with your child as you can. Show up prepared with a list of questions – about everything from courses offered to daily schedules and extracurricular activities – and be ready to write down the answers. Your High School Directory includes a helpful page of questions to ask at an open house. And here’s a tip: Write your contact information very clearly on sign-in sheets, as schools often notice which prospective students have attended their events.

How do I apply? This part is tricky, but not quite rocket science.

And if you do it right the first time, you have a 97% chance of getting an offer the first time around. By do it right, we mean if you list 12 programs on your application, in your true order of preference. Don’t worry about the schools seeing the order -- they won’t know how high they rank on your list. But the higher you rank a school on your list, the higher the chance you will receive an offer.

You should estimate your child’s likelihood of being offered a seat in the schools of interest to him. Some schools extend offers based mostly on zoning, while others screen applicants, taking into consideration seventh grade report card grades and state test scores (however, New York State law prohibits schools from utilizing state test scores as major factors in admissions decisions). Be sure to research your preferred school’s admission’s methods before applying.

You should also take note of the number of applicants per seat. For example, 10 applicants per seat indicate the school is in high demand whereas 3-4 applicants per seat indicate a lower demand. On the application, you may see fields marked “reach,” “target,” and “likely.”

According to the DOE, “reach” means you are less likely to be offered a spot, “target” means your chances of getting an offer are average, and “likely” points to a higher chance of receiving an offer.

Some schools offer priority to applicants based on diversity. High schools that are participating in the diversity initiative will give a certain percentage of applicants in the incoming ninth and tenth grades an admissions priority if they qualify as economically disadvantaged based on federal income guidelines. You can learn more about this at the DOE website (link to it at siparent.com/highschool).

Your 2020 High School Directory will include a complete list of New York City schools and programs to which you can apply, along with important information for each. You can also search for schools using the School Finder at schoolfinder.nyc.gov. (Or go to siparent.com/highschools to link directly to both the directory and the School Finder website).

You can apply online via the MySchools app or website at myschools. nyc/en. If you need help, visit a Family Welcome Center. Staten Island’s Family Welcome Center is located at 715 Ocean Terrace, Building A.

What’s new with the admissions process for 2020?

There are few updates to the high school admissions process this year, but they won’t change how to apply to high school, how to get an offer, or where the offer is from.

When your child receives his high school offer, he will also receive a list of programs where he has been waitlisted. He will be automatically added to the waitlist of any program that he listed higher on his application than the program where he received an offer.

What other options do I have? Some parents would rather their children not attend traditional public school. If you fall into this category, you might be interested in charter schools, one of the specialized high schools, a career/technical school or private schools.

Charter Schools

Charter schools are independent public schools founded by not-forprofit Boards of Trustees. They operate under a contract (or “charter”) of up to five years. Charter schools are New York City public schools and they are open to all New York City students. Many charter schools have unique educational approaches that may include longer school days, a longer school year, or themed programs. Charter schools have a different enrollment process. For information about a specific charter school and its enrollment deadline, contact the school directly. You can also learn how to enroll in charter schools at siparent.com/highschool.

Specialized High Schools

The nine specialized high schools offer support to students who excel academically and/or artistically. They are: • The Bronx High School of Science • The Brooklyn Latin School • Brooklyn Technical High School • HS for Mathematics, Science & Engineering at City College of NY • High School of American Studies at Lehman College • Queens High School for the Sciences at York College • Staten Island Technical High School • Stuyvesant High School • Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art You must register for the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test and/or LaGuardia High School auditions by October 10, 2019. Once you receive your Welcome Letter and create your MySchools account, you can schedule your test and/or audition.

Catholic School

If you are considering a Catholic high school for your child, there are a variety of coeducational and single-sex schools, many of which offer partnerships with local Catholic colleges and universities. On Staten Island, there are six Catholic High Schools – two are all boys, one is all girls, and three are co-ed.

To apply to a Catholic High school, eighth grade students must take an

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high school guide admissions exam called TACHS (Test for Admission into Catholic High Schools). The dealine to register is October 21, 2019.

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.

Catholic School admissions notices will begin distribution on January 15, 2020 and may be received via email, mail or phone.

Career & Technical Schools

These schools integrate academic study with workforce skills in specific career pathways. They offer students the opportunity to graduate high school with industry-specific competencies, skills, training, and even credentials that can lead to college or entry into the workforce. Through these programs, students have the opportunity to earn Advanced Regents diplomas.

Is there a different enrollment process for 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.

When will I receive an offer?

In March, all New York City students will get a high school offer letter.

This letter will include their high school offer and/or, if applicable, results from the specialized high schools admissions process, which may include a specialized high school offer or offers.

We know it seems like a lot to take in all at once, but try to relax. Take a breather. Go heat up your coffee. Then visit siparent.com/highschools for direct links to everything you need to know about applying to high school and more: a complete list of schools and programs, applications, school fair dates, open house dates, test dates, deadlines, important pages on the Dept. of Education website as well as the Catholic Schools website – and many more resources vital to the high school admission process.

Need even 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!

Below you will find list of helpful links that will guide you through the process. You can link directly to all of these websites and more at siparent.com/highschool.

• For in-depth Public High School Enrollment Information: schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll-gradeby-grade/high-school • To submit a high school application: myschools.nyc/en • For information on the selection process: vimeo. com/288797789 • To learn about applying to a Catholic High School: tachsinfo.com • To see a Citywide list of High School Fairs: surveygizmo.com/s3/5149588/e2f77e98e5aa • Learn how to enroll in a Charter School: pwsauth. nycenet.edu/enrollment/enroll-in-charter-schools • Learn how to apply to a Specialized High School: pwsauth.nycenet.edu/enrollment/enroll-grade-by-grade/ specialized-high-schools

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Staten Island Technical High School JOIN US FOR OUR OPEN HOUSE Thursday, October 17 • 5-9pm Please register on siths.org

Curtis HigH sCHool Information Night

Tuesday, November 12 • 6:30pm Come see which of our SMALL LEARNING COMMUNITIES suits your interests:

• International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme • IB Career-related Programme • Software Engineering Institute • Performing Arts • Media Communication & Video Journalism • Visual Arts Learn about • Human & Legal Studies Academy our many clubs, • Navy (JROTC) activities, & PSAL • Nursing Athletic Teams

For More Information Contact: Mrs. Samantha Soto, Parent Coordinator at 718.390.1800 ext 1340 Mrs. Duberstein-Weiss at 718.390.1814

105 Hamilton Avenue • SI, NY 10301

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high school guide Important Resources for NYC Public High Schools:

• Dept. of Education High School Admissions: schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll-grade-by-grade/high-school • Public High School Admissions: 718-935-2009 • Email Subscription: schools.nyc.gov/connect • Sports Programs: Public Schools Athletic League (PSAL): psal.org • Special Education: schools.nyc.gov/special-education/preschool-to-age-21/special-education-in-nyc

Important Dates for NYC Public High School Admissions

• October 10 – Registration deadline for Fall SHSAT and LaGuardia High School auditions • October 26 & 27 – SHSAT for all current 8th grade students and first-time 9th grade stends.

• November 2 & November 17 – SHSAT for all current 9th grade students, and 8th & 9th grade students who are English Language Learners or students with disabilities who have IEP’s or 504 plans.

• December 2 – High School Application Deadline • March 2020– Offers distributed Dates are subject to change. Check schools.nyc.gov for the latest information.

Important Resources for Catholic High Schools:

• Archdiocese of New York: archny.org/education • Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York: catholicschoolsny.org • Test for Admission into Catholic High School (TACHS): tachsinfo.com

Important Dates for Catholic High School Admissions

• October 11 – Deadline for submitting request and documentation to the diocese for extended testing time.

• October 21 – Registration deadline for the TACHS exam for internet and telephone • October 28-29 – Admit Card Distribution. Students currently in Catholic elementary school will receive it from school; all others will be mailed to address provided on registration form.

• November 8 – TACHS administration for Archdiocese of New York (includes Staten Island) • December 18 – Paper TACHS Applicant Records due to students’ three high school choices.

• January 15, 2020 – Earliest release of admission notices by high schools (may be received via email, mail or phone) • February, 2020 – Response card due back to school Dates are subject to change. Check tachsinfo.com for the latest information.

8TH GRADE INFORMATION NIGHT Learn how we “do school”

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Find out about our EL Education model; we are a NYC public high school that offers a safe, inclusive and academically rigorous college preparatory learning community focused on developing both the scholarship and character of its students.

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high school guide

11 REASONS TO

ATTEND AN OPEN HOUSE

BY JEANNINE CINTRON

A Staten Island mom of two and blogger at highchairsandheadaches.com

If your child is in the process of applying for enrollment in a new school for the following year, attending as many Open House events at prospective schools is extremely important. Here’s why.

Meet the faculty. This is your opportunity for you and your child to meet his potential future teachers and principal. The principal, in particular, plays a major role in the school and consequently, in the lives of the students. It is very important that you feel comfortable with this person being at the forefront of your child’s school.

Be on the school’s radar. Schools often take note of which students attend their open house events and that could be factor in their decision to offer your child a spot. Always be sure to neatly write your child’s name on the attendance sheet so they know she were there.

Get a feel for the surroundings. Ever hear of “good vibes?” That’s exactly what you should feel for a prospective school. The atmosphere, the staff, the location, the students – all of it should just feel right. If it doesn’t, trust your gut and cross it off the list.

Assess your commute. This is a good chance to do a practice run on the commute. You can see how far the school is from your home, how long it takes to get there, and what the surrounding neighborhood looks like. At the Open House you will also learn which transportation options are available.

Learn about programs offered. This is often one of the most important deciding factors when selecting a school. At the Open House event, you will be given an in-depth look at the programs and courses offered at the school. You can ask questions, meet the teachers heading up each program and learn about your child’s academic options.

Voice safety concerns. Your child’s safety is crucial. At the Open House, the school will address any questions or concerns you have about

security measures, emergency procedures, possible crime statistics and more.

Ask any questions you might have. You might not even know you had certain questions until you are physically inside the school. This is your time to ask anything that comes to mind.

Learn about the school day. At the Open House, you will find out what time school starts and ends, when your child will be eating lunch, what her daily schedule might look like, how the periods are structured and other information about the school day.

See which extracurricular activities and clubs are available. Most schools offer afterschool sports, academic clubs, and other programs your child might be interested in joining. A school that offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities might play a large role in his decision to apply.

Meet current students. One of the best ways to learn about a school is from the students themselves. At the Open House, students are often on hand to help describe the programs in which they are involved and what student life is like at the school.

Learn about the application and selection process. Some schools require tests or auditions, other schools screen applicants based on grades or other factors and some select students entirely at random. At the Open House, you will learn what is required to apply to the school and estimate your child’s odds of receiving an offer. You can also ask questions or voice your concerns about the process to ensure you have all the information you need to help your child apply for enrollment.

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family C A L E N D A R

events & news

Our October calendar features nearly 300 single day. Plan your whole month with us!

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

BRAVEST BBQ

Saturday, October 12 • 12pm Hillside Swim Club • 151 Signs Rd. 718-986-4587 • bravestbbq.eventbrite.com The 10th Anniversary of the Tunnnel to Towers Bravest BBQ features all you can eat award-winning BBQ, beer, wine and soda. With fun for the whole family, there will be face-painting, auctions, rids, games, pumpkin giveawys, fire trucks, rock wall, ambulance tours and more!

TOP !

PICKS

NY INT’L CHILDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL KID FLICKS & VIVA KID FLICKS! Saturday, October 18 • 3-5pm Staten Island Museum • 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-727-1135 • statenislandmuseum.org

Catch the best short films from around the world! Kid Flicks will feature short films from 10 countries for ages 3 and up, while Viva Kid Flicks will show Spanish stories from six different countries for kids ages 8 and up.

KIDS WORKSHOP: DIY FIRE PLANE

A NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN

Celebrate Fire & Safety Month! With a little help, kids can learn to use a screwdriver to connect everything needed to become airborne. All kids get to keep their craft, receive a free certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron and a commemorative pin while supplies last.

An autism-friendly family event featuring rides, food trucks, pumpkin patch, crafts, music, hayrides and trick or treating in a safe environment.

Wear your Halloween costume and enter a raffle to win Disney passes.

Hosted by the GRACE Foundation of New York.

October 5 • 9am-12pm Home Depot • All Staten Island Locations homedepot.com/workshops

Sunday, October 27 • 12-4pm St. John’s University • 300 Howard Avenue 718-983-3800 • graceofny.org

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LIPM TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1 Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 0-3 Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 plus admission • Ages 2-4 Toddler Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months Baby & Toddler Playtime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-4

Poco a Poco: Spanish Language Playgroup SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free • Ages 2-8 Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:15pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Lego Club Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 8-14 Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 5-11

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

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

Toddler Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months

Storytime Playspace Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free • All ages

CloseKnit Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 2pm • Free • All ages

Family Game Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 3pm • Free • Ages 3+

Great Kills Youth Tech Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 8+

Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free w/admission • All ages Wii Love Gaming!

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

Baby & Toddler Playtime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-4

Bessie’s Big Shot Walker Park Davis Avenue cityparksfoundation.org 4pm • Free • All ages

Preschool Time & Phun with Phonetics New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5

Lego Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12

Tavern Terrace Fall Season Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 6pm • Free • All ages

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2 Tot’s Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 • Ages 2-4 Baby Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 0-18 months Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-18 months Itty Bitty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-3 2D Art Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages

October 14 - Columbus Day October 31 - Halloween Rosh Hashanah - September 31 & October 1 Yom Kippur October 9 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Ages 5-12

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • $3 • Age 2 Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 plus admission • Ages 2-4

Family Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • All ages Game On! Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 4:30pm • Free • Ages 8+

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4 Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-5

Ghost Tour: The Tale of the Matron Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 6pm • $10 • All ages

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5 Pumpkin Picking Decker Farm 435 Richmond Hill Road historicrichmondtown.org 12pm • All ages DIY Kids Workshop – Fire Plane Home Depot All Staten Island Locations homedepot.com/workshops 9am • Free • All ages Kids Club Abstract Paper Pumpkin Michael’s All Staten Island Locations michaels.com/onlineclasses 10am • $3 • Ages 3+

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

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events & news Play Cafe SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10:30am • Free w/admission • Ages 3-6

PUMPKIN PICKING

Saturdays & Sundays, October 5-26 12-6pm Decker Farm 435 Richmond Hill Road historicrichmondtown.org 718-351-1611

Storytime in the Secret Garden Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 10:30am • $5 • All ages Councilwoman Rose’s Community Fair Tappen Park Bay Street 718-556-7370 11am • Free • All ages Secret Life of Squirrels Deere Park Staten Island Blvd & Shields Place 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages Pumpkin Picking at Decker Farm Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 12pm • Pricing online • All ages Storytime in the Secret Garden Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 12:30pm • $5 • All ages 2D Art Day at the Museum: Paint Stamp & Draw SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/admission • All ages Family Art Workshops: Magic Wand Making Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 1pm • Free w/admission • All ages Cinema Saturdays!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free • All ages Family Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 3:30pm • Free • All ages Tavern Terrace Fall Season Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 6pm • Free • All ages Ghost Tour: The Tale of the Matron Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 6pm • $10 • All ages

Toddler Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months Baby & Toddler Playtime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-4 Baby & Toddler Playtime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-4

Pumpkin Picking at Decker Farm returns Saturday, October 5th with all of your favorite autumnal activities! Pick a pumpkin, enjoy an old-fashioned hayride, and indulge in delicious fall food Preschool Time & Phun favorites.

with Phonetics New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5

Light The Night College of Staten Island 2800 Victory Blvd. lightthenight.org 6:30pm • Pricing online • All ages

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6 JDRF One Walk College of Staten Island 2800 Victory Blvd. jdrf.org 8:30am • Pricing online • All ages Jamie’s LILAC Foundation Pumpkin Patch Oakwood Heights Community Church 345 Guyon Ave. 347-201-9845 9am • Free • All ages Birding: Warbler Watch Clove Lakes Park 626 Clove Road 718-967-3542 9am • Free • All ages Pumpkin Picking Decker Farm 435 Richmond Hill Road historicrichmondtown.org 12pm • All ages

MONDAY, OCTOBER 7 Toddler Story & Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 18-36 months Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

Toddler Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months Toddler Time!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free • Ages 2-4

LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • All ages Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9

Baby Space!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 12:15pm • Free • Ages 0-18 months

Tot’s Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 plus admission • Ages 2-4

Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Baby Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 0-18 months

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-18 months

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

Itty Bitty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-3

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 0-3 Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 plus admission • Ages 2-4

2D Art Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission All ages Poco a Poco: Spanish Language Playgroup SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free • Ages 2-8

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

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LIPM Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:15pm • Free • Ages 3-12

ITALIAN FESTIVAL

October 11 • 6-11pm October 12 & 13 • 12-11pm Mount Loretto 6581 Hylan Blvd. mountloretto.org freshkillspark.org

Lego Club Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 8-14 Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Ages 5-12

The Island’s biggest Columbus Day Celebration is back! Featuring rides, games, cultural centers, food, vendors, beer and sangria gardens, plus live musical performances including Louis Prima Jr.! Text the word MOUNT to the number 313131 for lineup and more details.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • $3 • Age 2 Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 plus admission • Ages 2-4 Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3 • Ages 3-4 Toddler Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months Tech Zone Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1pm • Free • Ages 7-12 Great Kills Youth Tech Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 8+ Family Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • All ages Origami Club: Halloween Edition Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 7-12

Game On! Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 4:30pm • Free • Ages 8+

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11 Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 8am • Free • Ages 3-5 Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-5 Italian Festival at the Mount Mount Loretto 6581 Hylan Blvd 718-984-1500 12pm • $5 • All ages

Ghost Tour: The Tale of the Matron Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 6pm • $10 • All ages

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 Saint George Greenmarket St. Mark’s Place and Hyatt St 212-788-7900 8am • Free • All ages Walk to End Alzheimer’s College of Staten Island 2800 Victory Blvd. alz.org 9:45am • Pricing online • All ages Kids Club Pumpkin Cookies Michael’s All Staten Island Locations michaels.com/onlineclasses 10am • $3 • Ages 3+

Family Game Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 3pm • Free • Ages 3+

Play Cafe SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10:30am • Free w/admission Ages 3-6

Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free w/admission • All ages

Con-Ed Stem Family Day: Dancing Skeletons Staten Island MakerSpace 450 Front St, Unit B 718-273-3951 10:30am • Free • All ages

Wii Love Gaming!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Tavern Terrace Fall Season Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 6pm • Free • All ages

Storytime in the Secret Garden Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 10:30am • $5 • All ages Toddler Sing ‘n Shake Dance Party Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months

Fall Nature Bike Tour Brookfield Park 575 Arthur Kill Rd. 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages Sensory Storytime Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11am • Free/must register • All ages Bravest BBQ Hillside Swimming Club 151 Signs Rd 718-987 - 1931 12pm • $25 • All ages Italian Festival at the Mount Mount Loretto 6581 Hylan Blvd 718-984-1500 12pm • $5 • All ages Pumpkin Picking Decker Farm 435 Richmond Hill Road historicrichmondtown.org 12pm • All ages Rolling Thunder’s Oktoberfest Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave historicrichmondtown.org 12pm • $10 • All ages Remembering Inventor Antonio Meucci SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 12pm • Free w/admission • All ages Storytime in the Secret Garden Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 12:30pm • $5 • All ages 2D Art Day at the Museum: Paint Stamp & Draw SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/admission • All ages Tree ID Hikes Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 1pm • Free • Ages 8+ Cinema Saturdays!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free • All ages Family Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 3:30pm • Free • All ages

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

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events & news Tavern Terrace Fall Season Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 6pm • Free • All ages

GREENBELT PEEPERS & TREE TOTS

Ghost Tour: The Tale of the Matron Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 6pm • $10 • All ages

Peepers • Thursdays • 9:45am Tree Tots • Thursdays • 11am Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue sigreenbelt.org

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13 Italian Festival at the Mount Mount Loretto 6581 Hylan Blvd 718-984-1500 12pm • $5 • All ages Pumpkin Picking Decker Farm 435 Richmond Hill Road 718-351-1611 historicrichmondtown.org 12pm • All ages A League of Their Own: Classic Movie Series St. George Theatre 35 Hyatt Street 718-442-2900 6pm • Pricing online • All ages Family Camping: Staten Island Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

718-984-6046 6pm • $2 • All ages

MONDAY, OCTOBER 14 Staten Island Zoo Goes Blue for Autism Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway 718-442-3100 9am • $6 • All ages Cool School Holiday SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • Free • All ages

Peepers: Nature-inspired classes for two year olds Tree Tots: Nature inspired programs for 3 and 4 year-olds Through hands-on activities, crafts, and stories, children will become familiar with the sights and sounds of the forest. Registration required: naturecenter@sigreenbelt.org or by phone: 718-667-2165. $3 or free for Greenbelt Conservancy members.

Caregiver must remain present.

Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 plus admission • Ages 2-4 Toddler Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months Baby & Toddler Playtime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-4 Kids Intro to Computers Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 3:30pm • Free • Ages 7-12

Preschool Time & Phun with Phonetics New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 Special Workshop: Pre-Columbian Art 4pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5 SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace LiteracyINC: Story Hour 718-273-2060 Stapleton Library 11am • Free • All ages 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 Free Parents & Family Substance 4pm • Free • All ages Abuse Support Group Christopher’s Reason Recovery Center Game On! 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor Mariners Harbor Library Christopher’s Reason Recovery Center 206 South Avenue 7pm • Free • All ages 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15 Autism Speaks Town Hall Tot Time Tuesdays Wagner College Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 1 Campus Road 2351 Veterans Rd W 646-385-8543 718-967-1976 6:30pm • Free • All ages 10am • Free • Ages 0-3

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16

Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Ages 5-12

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • $3 • Age 2 Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 • Ages 2-4 Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3 • Ages 3-4

Tot’s Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 Toddler Story Time 11am • $6 plus admission • Ages 2-4 Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd Baby Story Time 718-494-1642 Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 Great Kills Youth Tech Club 11am • Free • Ages 0-18 months Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane Infant Lapsit Storytime 718-984-6670 Great Kills Library 3:30pm • Free • Ages 8+ 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 Halloween Tween Craft 11am • Free • Ages 0-18 months Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue Itty Bitty Storytime 718-984-4636 Mariners Harbor Library 3:30pm • Free • Ages 8-13 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 Family Story Time 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-3 Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 2D Art Day 718-494-1642 SI Children’s Museum 4pm • Free • All ages 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 SAGE Story Time 1:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Poco a Poco: 718-273-2060 Spanish Language Playgroup 4pm • Free w/admission • All ages SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Bilingual Spooky BINGO 718-273-2060 Mariners Harbor Library 3pm • Free • Ages 2-8 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 Crafty Storytime 4pm • Free • Ages 7-12 Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue Game On! 212-621-0690 Great Kills Library 3:15pm • Free • Ages 3-12 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 Lego Club 4:30pm • Free • Ages 8+ Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 8-14

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

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LIPM Anti-Bully Support Workshop Projectivity 1953 Richmond Terrace 646-765-6531 5pm • Free • All ages

MAGIC WAND MAKING

October 5 • 1-3pm Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace staten islandmuseum.org

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18 Preschool Open Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 8am • Free • Ages 3-5 Preschool Storytime & Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-5

Calling all magicians, wizards, fairies, and witches! Are you in need of a new magic wand? Kids of all ages will design and craft their own wand using different combinations of the many materials provided.

Wii Love Gaming!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Tavern Terrace Fall Season Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 6pm • Free • All ages Ghost Tour: The Tale of the Matron Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 6pm • $10 • All ages

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 Saint George Greenmarket St. Mark’s Place and Hyatt St 212-788-7900 8am • Free • All ages Kids Club Pencil Monsters Michael’s All Staten Island Locations michaels.com/onlineclasses 10am • $3 • Ages 3+ Play Cafe SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10:30am • Free w/admission Ages 3-6 Storytime in the Secret Garden Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 10:30am • $5 • All ages

Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Free Parents & Family Substance Abuse Support Group Christopher’s Reason Recovery Ctr 521 Arthur Kill Rd, 3rd floor 7pm • Free • All ages

Family Game Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 3pm • Free • Ages 3+ Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free w/admission • All ages

MONDAY, OCTOBER 21 Toddler Time!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free • Ages 2-4

Harvest Festival Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 11am • Free • All ages

Family Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 3:30pm • Free • All ages

Fall Foliage Canoeing Clove Lakes Park 626 Clove Road 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages

Tavern Terrace Fall Season Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 6pm • Free • All ages

Saturday Morning Read Aloud Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 4+

Ghost Tour: The Tale of the Matron Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 6pm • $10 • All ages

Sensory Playdate!

Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free • Ages 2-4 Storytime in the Secret Garden Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 12:30pm • $5 • All ages Pumpkin Picking Decker Farm 435 Richmond Hill Road 718-351-1611 historicrichmondtown.org 12pm • All ages Cinema Saturdays!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free • All ages New York International Children’s Film Festival – Kid Flicks & Viva Kid Flicks!

Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 3pm • $5 • All ages

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20 Old Home Day Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 11am • Pricing online • All ages Ecosystem Explorers: Deciduous Forests High Rock Park 200 Nevada Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages Pumpkin Picking Decker Farm 435 Richmond Hill Road 718-351-1611 historicrichmondtown.org 12pm • All ages Sea Shanty Session Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 2pm • Free • All ages

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22 Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 0-3 Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 • Ages 2-4 Toddler Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months Baby & Toddler Playtime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-4 Baby & Toddler Playtime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-4 Preschool Picassos — Lacing Mummies Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 2-4 Kinetic Geometry Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 13-18 Halloween Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-7

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

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events & news Preschool Time & Phun with Phonetics New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5

COMMUNITY FUN FAIR

LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • All ages Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23 Tot’s Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 • Ages 2-4 Baby Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 0-18 months Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-18 months Itty Bitty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-3 2D Art Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages Poco a Poco: Spanish Language Playgroup SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free • Ages 2-8 Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:15pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Lego Club Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 8-14 Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 5-11

October 5 • 11am-3pm Tappen Park Bay Street & Water Street facebook.com/debirose

A fun day on the North Shore for the whole family, hosted by Councilwoman Debi Rose! Live performances, DJ, free bike helmets, zoo animals, NYPD rock wall, face painting, food for sale, community honorees, STEAM wagon, games, activities, arts and crafts, health resources — and much more!

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Ages 5-12

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24

Game On! Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 4:30pm • Free • Ages 8+

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25

Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • $3 • Age 2

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

Tot’s Time at the Museum SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $6 • Ages 2-4

Wii Love Gaming!

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

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

Fun Friday Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 3:30pm • Free • Ages 4+

Toddler Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months

Tavern Terrace Fall Season Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 6pm • Free • All ages

Sensory Cafe Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 2-4

Ghost Tour: The Tale of the Matron Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 6pm • $10 • All ages

Great Kills Youth Tech Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 8+

Creature from the Black Lagoon Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 6:30pm • $5 • All ages

Family Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • All ages

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26 Saint George Greenmarket St. Mark’s Place and Hyatt St 212-788-7900 8am • Free • All ages

Storytime in the Secret Garden Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 10:30am • $5 • All ages Toddler Sing ‘n Shake Dance Party Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months Art in the Park: Leaf Art Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 11am • Free • All ages Fall Festival at the Mount Mount Loretto 6581 Hylan Blvd 718-984-1500 12pm • Free • All ages Storytime in the Secret Garden Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 12:30pm • $5 • All ages Pumpkin Picking Decker Farm 435 Richmond Hill Road 718-351-1611 historicrichmondtown.org 12pm • All ages Ecosystem Explorers: Hidden Habitats Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 1pm • Free • All ages Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1pm • Free • Ages 6-12 Haunted History Hike Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 2pm • Free • Ages 10+ Cinema Saturdays!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 2pm • Free • All ages Halloween in Richmond Town Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 3pm • Pricing online • All ages Family Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 3:30pm • Free • All ages

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

54 October 2019 • siparent.com

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LIPM Tavern Terrace Fall Season Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave 718-351-1611 6pm • Free • All ages

SECRET LIFE OF SQUIRRELS

October 5 • 11am Deere Park Staten Island Boulevard & Shields Pl. nycgovparks.org

Ghost Tour: The Tale of the Matron Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 6pm • $10 • All ages Stargazing in Great Kills Great Kills Park Hylan Blvd. & Buffalo Street 212-535-2922 8pm • Free • All ages

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27 Halloween Fall Festival Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex 625 Father Capodanno Blvd oceanbreezenyc.org 11am • Free • All ages Diwali Celebration SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • Free w/admission • All ages Fall Festival at the Mount Mount Loretto 6581 Hylan Blvd 718-984-1500 12pm • Free • All ages Pumpkin Picking Decker Farm 435 Richmond Hill Road 718-351-1611 historicrichmondtown.org 12pm • All ages All About Bats Bloomingdale Park Ramona & Lenevar Avenue 718-967-3542 7pm • Free • All ages

MONDAY, OCTOBER 28 Toddler-Preschool Halloween Bash Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 2-5 & Adults Toddler Time!

Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 11:30am • Free • Ages 2-4

If you’ve spent any time in a New York City park, chances are you have spotted an eastern gray squirrel. These tree-dwelling animals have become something of an unofficial mascot for the city’s parks by nature of their visibility. They can often be seen leaping through wooded areas, chasing other squirrels around tree trunks, or perched on park benches nibbling on nuts and seeds.Join the Urban Park Rangers and discover some fun and interesting facts of this familiar fixture in our parks.

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

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29

Halloween Family Feud Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 8-12

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30

Tot Time Tuesdays Clay Pit Ponds Visitors Center 2351 Veterans Rd W 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 0-3

Baby Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 0-18 months

Toddler Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months

Infant Lapsit Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-18 months

Baby & Toddler Playtime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-4

Itty Bitty Storytime: Halloween Costume Party!

Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-3

Baby & Toddler Playtime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-4 Kids Intro to Computers Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 3:30pm • Free • Ages 7-12

Monday Mix Up Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Preschool Time & Phun with Phonetics New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Ages 5-12

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

Poco a Poco: Spanish Language Playgroup SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free • Ages 2-8 Crafty Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:15pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Slime Making Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3+ Lego Club Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • Ages 8-14

Wednesday STEAMDay Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street 718-727-0427 4pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Halloween Costume Party!

Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • All ages District 31 Middle School Fair New Dorp High School 465 New Dorp Lane 718-935-2000 5pm • Free • All ages Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Ages 5-12

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31 Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • $3 • Age 2 Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3 • Ages 3-4 Toddler Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 11am • Free • Ages 18-36 months Great Kills Youth Tech Club Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 8+ Family Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd 718-494-1642 4pm • Free • All ages Game On! Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 4:30pm • Free • Ages 8+ Halloween Costume Parade Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4:30pm • Free • All ages Spooky Storytime Dongan Hills Library 1617 Richmond Road 718-351-1444 11:30am • Free • All ages

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

October 2019 • siparent.com

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fun stuff

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BIRTHDAY Sign Up FREEBIES Have your cake and eat it too!

siparent.com/birthdayclub

on your big day!

FREE 1 HOUR OF ROCK CLIMBING AT ROCK‘EM EXTREME 638 Sharrotts Road • SI, NY 10309 718.948.7777

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

FREE $5 BONUS PLAY & 250 TICKETS AT iPLAY AMERICA 110 Schanck Road, Freehold, NJ 07728-2938 732.577.8200

FREE $5 POWER CARD

AT DAVE AND BUSTERS 2655 Richmond Avenue • SI, NY 10314 929.464.2700 OCTOBER 1 Marquise Simon Kaylie Hynes Salvatore Ozone Giada Ozone Scott Sherman Justin Volkes Alexandra Coughlin Jonathan Marchione Maggie Hill John Mattera

OCTOBER 2 Melissa Sorrentino Emily Haberstroh Gianna Liatonio Dominick Carti Aneeq Rasheed Angelina Ruffino Ianthe Collins Jacob Mayo OCTOBER 3 Stephen W. Magistro Eliajh Jenkins Salvatore Donato Angela Ruffino Daniel Gorbai Giovanni Villalobos Mason James Gore Anthony Garzone Sofia Cipriano OCTOBER 4 Ryan A. Fleming Akshay Rangaswami Erin Geraghty Mitchell Ducalo

Ariana Hastaba Christian Lofters Paul Foye OCTOBER 5 Kyle Gravitch Jeremy Bodin Jordan Scitt Nicole Avitto Alfredo Jimenez Adam Fici Alexandra Gorini GIada Olivieri OCTOBER 6 William Miller Michael Kumar Jack Badalamenti Gianna Jobe Bradan McGlyn Jack Badalamenti Alexa Ripalda Sanny Alfimov OCTOBER 7 Daniel Phillips Gianna Remini Issac Tirado Matthew Tirado Leah Grayce Goldstein Jaclyn Crockett Isaac Donsky Aiden Jiang OCTOBER 8 Cloe Stretton Joseph Lopez Nicolette Jade laino

Christopher Carti Ella Savinon Jaslene A. Uccello Addison Testaverdi Caroline Shevaha Chelsea Dobson LeAnn Chooi Jaslene Uccello OCTOBER 9 Christina Baetz Kristina Nolan Jessica Lamberti Shane Kaminski Scott Zipprich Nicholas Monteleone Gregory Ross Lemberg Jacob Polakowski Jaelyn Cappucci OCTOBER 10 Ryan Keogh Isabelle Hannah Christian Kranzke Christopher Monteleone Ava Therese DeMuro Liberty Thomas Janie Owens Ava Therese DeMuro Joseph Saryian OCTOBER 11 Caleigh Smith Jennifer Orjuela Jonathan Orjuela Chloe Katelin Williams Fantasaia Nikia McKenzie

y p p a H ! y a d h t Bir Ashlee Basich Alexis Ranieri Dean Bonici Benjamin Jimenez Lucas Wong Zachary Mendez OCTOBER 12 Olivia Mally Nicholas Diaz Magdalena Martinez Ashley Dannie Davis Adriana Somma Brooke Nicole McCloskey David Christopher Martin Liam Wong OCTOBER 13 Alexxis Lugo Olivia Zito Kalique Mitchell Jennifer Alyssa Levy Adrianna Catanzaro Alexandra Napoli Francesco Vasquez Veronica Wankowicz Vincent Mercurio OCTOBER 14 Ryan McDermott Callie Quinn Azaria Astwood Victoria Van Drost Ryan Mauer Dylan Volkin

OCTOBER 15 Crystal Ghany Tia Schioppo Mariah Camacho Rihana Lika Kayla Krasnopolski Jesse James Verner Sienna Bryson Rocco Wiener Blaze Diaz OCTOBER 16 Jaylene Ocasio Brianna Rotunno Tyler Nanetti Logan Merrill Zyaire Johnson Franceso Domenico Lanni Lilah Mae Wilkerson Jonathan Fennell OCTOBER 17 Cynthia Orlando Sarah Zaluk Ciara Joan Motta Molly Haberstroh Dominique Yancey Steven Grey Wolt Nirmeen Khass Evann Duran Joseph Seri Siena Krasner OCTOBER 18 Nicole Liebman Sebastiano Liantonio Anna Liantonio

LIPM Noel Ann Cataldo Sebastian Bonilla Jackson Nicholas Akko Tolbert-Francis, Jr. Toby Klein OCTOBER 19 Gianna Marie Franco Christina Cardinale Ginamarie Febus Christopher Contino Jasiah Cole Nadia Roseboro Adrianna Rentas Marta Barabash Grace Massie Sundeep Singh OCTOBER 20 Maria Sophia Fiume John Murphy Robert Murphy Mercedez Green Taylor Craven Ryan Rodriguez Gabriella Florio Dorianna Griffin ToniAnn Pena Selah Noel OCTOBER 21 Ian Roa Justin Piccirillo Nicholas Del Re Justina Cole Delilah Lopez Chloe Malone Dominic Rocco Ozone Angelina Rose Ozone Daniella Clement Gianluca Maggiore OCTOBER 22 Andrew Fennell Matthew F. Perillo Steven R. Leguillou Mariah Metzger Giavanna Parrelli Victoria Solodovnikov Abraham Abril-Jimenez Chenoa Ebanks Noah McDermott Christian Maniscalco Anna Rodgers OCTOBER 23 Matthew Paul DeSalvo Sara Elizabeth Walker Allison Perchman Raquel Shaul Robert Shaul Maya Burke Michael Werring OCTOBER 24 Blake Soto Matthew Ventrudo Thomas Powierski Samantha Todaro Lundyn Lombardo Joel Washington Nathaniel Pichardo Rileigh Spangler

OCTOBER 25 Jazmine Williams-Natal Daniel Orotolano David Tobio Jr. Douglas Donnelly Oliver Vendemio Sophia Garzetta Peter Buenaventura Oliver Vendemio Lianna Canfield OCTOBER 26 Noah Salazar Richard Saccomagno Kyrah McFarlane Joshua Benedetto Edward Medina Kayla Wepy Peter Buenaventura Morgan Pina Vincenzo Rosa OCTOBER 27 Lauren Elena Pacheco Frank John Martucci William Silva Gianna Bova George Cusick Elijah Roman Ian Smith Isabella Soto Yasien Moore OCTOBER 28 Alexa Stewart Mario Nevarez Jr. Lisa Foreman Jumaninice Ebanks Erin Haupert Joseph Cashin Carlo Milito Lisa Foreman Francis Baranello Lisa Foreman OCTOBER 29 Francesca Pascale Brianna Grace Bove Melanie Nannetti NIcholas Curzio Melissa Aldorasi Olivia Page Henriquez Brody Lucci Thomas Weisberg Quindale Herrera II OCTOBER 30 Dennis Callaghan George P. Caruselle III Nicholas Gofas Mohamed Ahmed Haithem Abdelhamid Joel Rivera Aurelie Henriquez Jeremy Williams OCTOBER 31 Vincent Passarelli Michael Putney Jenna Sannino Devin Rodriguez Jordan Vatter Skylar Swain Diego Bonilla

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

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Celebrating Over 30 Years of Excellence

Join the CASTLETON HILL MORAVIAN PRESCHOOL Family!

• 4 Year Old Program • 3 Year Old Classes, Half Day and • 2 Year Old Toddler Program • Tot-Time Together (12-20 months old) • Baby Buzz Classes (4-12 months old) • State-of-the-Art Outdoor Playground • Curriculum Includes Early Literacy For more information: 1657 Victory Boulevard • SI, NY 10314 718.442.5350 castletonhillpreschool.com

and Critical Thinking

“Nurturing Little Learners”

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raising kids

10 FAST FACTS ABOUT LICE What you need to know when these pests visit your household

BY KATY M. CLARK

Katy M. Clark is a writer who celebrates her imperfections as a mom at ExperiencedBadMom.com.

ARE YOU A PARENT? DO YOU LIVE IN STATEN ISLAND?

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“Mommy, a bug crawled out of my hair,” my ten-year-old daughter said.

I took a peek at her hair and saw nothing. Probably a fruit fly, I thought. After all, no one in our family had ever had lice.

Then I saw an itty-bitty bug crawl out of her hairline onto her forehead.

Yikes! It was lice. Or, a louse to be exact. And so, despite my thinking that it couldn’t happen to our family, we began our journey with head lice.

Our family wasn’t alone, either. Between 6 and 12 million children ages 3-12 years get lice each year in the U.S. according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Here’s what I wish I had known about lice before my daughter got it --- it would have saved me a lot of panic and stress in the days that followed.

1. A louse is one bug, lice are multiple bugs and nits are the eggs. Delousing is the process of removing lice from a person or objects.

2. Transmission only happens via head-to-head contact. Lice don’t jump, so you won’t get lice just because someone in your family has it. My daughter likely got lice from an affected friend when they put their heads together on the bus to watch a video on a phone.

3. Having lice does not mean your child is dirty. The lice do not care whether someone has squeaky-clean or dirty hair. They hang on any hair shaft and feed on tiny bits of human blood. (Yes, that’s gross.)

4. Your pets won’t get lice from your affected child. That’s because lice are species-specific. In other words, human lice need human blood, so your non-human cat or dog is an unsuitable host.

5. Lice don’t spread disease or present any physical danger.

6. Head lice can live on a human host for around 30 days. Once they are off the host, they will not survive longer than 24 hours.

7. Special shampoo will kill the lice immediately.

However, the lice have left their nits or eggs on the hair shafts and these can hatch into lice. You must pick the nits off, usually every 2-3 days for a couple weeks.

Nit-picking is tedious, but necessary.

8. The better the nit-picking comb you use, the easier nit-picking will go. The first time I picked nits out of my daughter’s thick, shoulder-length hair, it

58 October 2019 • siparent.com

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took me 90 minutes. That was using the tiny comb that came with the box of lice shampoo. I went back to the pharmacy and sprung for the deluxe nit-picking comb.

It was wider, with thicker prongs placed closer together, and made working through her hair faster and easier.

9. A lice boutique, popping up in more and more neighborhoods, might be worth the cost for delousing.

The lice boutique in my town offers a non-toxic treatment and will pick all nits out of a child’s hair for $180. I was deterred by the high cost, but then I found out how time and labor intensive nit-picking can be.

Should the little buggers ever visit again, I will weigh the pros and cons of using such a service.

10. There is no consensus on how to delouse your home. I washed my daughter’s clothes and bedding in hot water. But various Internet sources told me to dry them 20, 30 and even 45 minutes.

Likewise, I vacuumed everything to pick up any stray lice or hair that may have fallen off my daughter’s head with nits attached. Yet some websites say such extreme cleaning is unnecessary. I recommend consulting with your pediatrician for professional advice.

In the end, having lice is not the end of the world and can happen to anyone. Thankfully, it is more annoying than harmful. Proper treatment and a good attitude will have you and your child happy and free of lice soon enough.

GOT LICE?

Bugs in my Hair

by David Shannon Don’t bug out! This book will ease the anxieties of anyone anyone in need of a good delousing.

The entire process is depicted in a humorous and helpful way that is easy for kids to understand.

Available at Amazon.com for $10.99 in paperback and $17.99 in hardcover.

STATEN ISLAND COMMUNITY TENNIS CENTER

6 Indoor Air Conditioned Courts 6 Outdoor Courts

www.statenislandtennis.com

718.982.3355 • sitenniscenter@gmail.com .

Also Available:

• Leagues/Random Courts • Junior Tennis Program (ages 5 & up • beginner-advanced) • Day ~Evening ~Weekends Available • Private or Group Instruction October 2019 • siparent.com 59

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raising kids ATTORNEYS

PSYCHOTHERAPISTS

KURT T. RICHARDS, P.C.

KIM WILLIAMS-JENKINS LCSW-R, MSED, CRC, CASAC

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

Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy; Identity and Self Esteem; Autism and Aspergers; Addiction and Recovery; LGBTQI; Adults and Children. Most Insurance Accepted.

Attorney at Law 1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY 718.720.1000 • www.krichardspc.com

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

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

PSYCHOTHERAPISTS ANGELA CAPECE, LMHC

NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor Specializing in Couples/Family/Individual Counseling 917.636.3256 • acapece810@gmail.com

By Appointment • Day and Evening Hours Anxiety, depression and relationship issues can range from restricting to debilitating. If you are eager to free yourself from long-standing unhelpful behaviors, then psychotherapy can help you find the answerers you seek and the tools you need to promote growth and change in your life. As a mental health counselor, my initial goal is to provide you with confidential and personalized therapy to begin your journey to emotional well-being. My office is private and personal.

In my therapeutic work, I incorporate the many facets of my professional career which have included positions in educational and clinical sectors. In working with you, I will draw o these diverse experiences in order to provide you with a culturally sensitive treatment plan.

My areas of specialty include: Anxiety, Depression, Family Conflict, Couples Counseling, Self-Esteem, Stress Reduction and Management.

STATEN ISLAND YMCA COUNSELING SERVICE

SOUTH SHORE CENTER NORTH SHORE CENTER 3911 Richmond Avenue 285 Vanderbilt Avenue 718-948-3232 718-981-4382 Open Intake Hours available 6 days a week ymcanyc.org/locations/counseling-service Offering hope to individuals and families whose lives have been turned upside-down by addiction. We treat families, not just individuals. Our services include: Individual, Group & Family Counseling, a Little Steps program for children coping with a loved one’s addiction, Intensive Outpatient Treatment, Medication Assisted Treatment, Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders including on-site psychiatric services, Crisis Intervention, Assessment & Referral Services, Anger Management for youth/adults, Parenting Skills classes, FREE Narcan training/kits, Immigrant Resource Center including English as a Second Language Classes. Financial Assistance is available.

Culturally Competent Compassionate Counseling 15 1st Street, 2nd Floor • 10306 • 917.837.1317 CulturallyCompetentCounseling@Gmail.com

MICHAEL DESIMONE PH.D, LCSW

175 Burbank Ave (New Dorp) 718.650.9000 michael.w.desimone@gmail.com • michaeldesimonetherapy.com Helping Adults, Children and Adolescents with Anxiety, Fears & Worries, Anger, Depression, Grief/Sadness, Insecurity, Shyness, Self- Esteem, Relationship Problems, Private, Comfortable & Confidential.

SPEECH, OCCUPATIONAL & PHYSICAL THERAPY SOUTH SHORE SPEECH PATHOLOGY

520B Bloomingdale Rd • Staten Island, NY 10309 718.608.1508 southshorespeechtherapy.com Evaluation & treatment of pediatric speech & language, fine & gross motor delays & disorders; Dept. of Ed. CPSE & CSE Tertiary Designation; Most Insurance Accepted. Homecare & School Services Offered.

QUALITY CARE SPEECH CENTER, INC.

Randi Pino M.A., CCC-SLP/TSHH, Director 3767 Hylan Blvd 10308 718.605.4301 • qualitycarespeechcenter@gmail.com www.qualitycarespeech.com NYS Licensed Speech Pathologists. Occupational & Physical Therapists; Evaluation & 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); Primary Designation for Physical Therapy; Top Tier for Speech & OT.

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

Nationally certified professional providing quality evaluations & treatment of adults and children for over 40 years. Additional services: public speaking classes, accent reduction, corporate speech pathology and lecturing.

Approved NYC Department of Education Provider. (CPSE & RSA)

SANDRA MAZZUCCO M.A., C.C.C.-SLP

NYS Licensed Speech Language Pathologist Annadale Town: 465 Belfield Ave North Shore: 1076 Forest Ave 718.815.6024 Evaluations & Therapeutic Intervention for Children & Adults, PROMPT Trained, Oral Motor & Feeding Therapy, Specializing in Fluency.

ASHA Certified.

60 October 2019 • siparent.com

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LIPM Proudly serving the Staten Island Community for Over 9 Years!

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

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY: Dr. Abhinav Sinha Dr. Joseph Merola

We offer pediatric laser surgery for treatment of tongue and lip-ties.

We are now accepting Liberty Dental patients!

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

Staten Island Family Music

ORTHODONTICS: Dr. Abraham Ganz

718.967.2412 • 6795 Hylan Blvd • 10309 (Corner of Page Ave) www.smallworlddental.com

COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL CARE FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES AND THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS.

DR. ABHINAV SINHA IS THE FORMER DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN’S DENTAL CENTER AT NEW YORK-PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL/WEILL CORNELL MEDICAL COLLEGE. Modern technology including digital radiography as well as TVs and toys for children to enjoy in our themed treatment rooms. Sedation is available in our office.

FALL SPECIAL

20% OFF YOUR FIRST VISIT (new patients only)

and/or free orthodontic consultation • Aetna • Metlife • Delta • Cigna

• Guardian • BC/BS • UFT • Fidelis

~HEALTH PLANS ACCEPTED~ • All Health Plus Plans • Affinity/ Dentaquest

• Healthplex PPO • UHC Including Community NYPD, FDNY Plan & Sanitation

If your insurance is NOT listed, call to coordinate care to maximize benefits.

SUPERIOR

PIANO INSTRUCTION

BY MARSHA

ALL AGES ALL LEVELS

BACHELOR OF MUSIC | MASTERS OF FINE ARTS 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

BRING SOME

YOUR HOME OR MINE 917.583.5559 718.447.1416

NEW STUDENT

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TO YOUR WORLD

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5 classes for $2500 Come for 2 weeks!

COME FOR THE YOGA, STAY FOR THE LIFESTYLE!

DIVERSE CLASSES • INFORMED TEACHERS

809 Castleton Ave.• SI, NY 10310 718.619.9959 • northstaryoga.nyc@gmail.com

NorthStarYoga.NYC

MINI WORLD PRESCHOOL

Has relocated to 144 Bloomingdale Rd

Fomerly of St. Stephens Church in Tottenville OPEN HOUSE

TUESDAY-FRIDAY OCT 1ST-OCT 31ST • 9AM-1PM Please call for an appointment so that we can accommodate later appointment times

REGISTER NOW SEPTEMBER MINI TOTS CLASS AGES 2.3-3 YEARS (Not Potty Trained OK)

WE HAVE HALF DAY OR FULL DAY CLASSES

Mommy & Me 18-36 Mos

Half Day or Full Day Classes for 2.4-3 Year Olds in September

Tots “R” Us Daycare, Inc. 6 WEEKS–12 YEARS • EARLY PRE-SCHOOL CURRICULUM OPEN 7AM-5:30PM (EXTENDED HOURS AVAILABLE) • Summer Camp & Recreational Activities • NYS Licensed, ACD & HRA Accepted • Hablamos Espanol • Free Breakfast, Lunch & Supper • Over Nights & Weekends • Children Ages 2+ Must Wear a Uniform NYS ACCEPTING ADMISSION AT OUR NEW CENTER COMING SOON: 472 NETHERLAND AVE.

Certified Pre-K Teacher Needed

Email: totsrusdaycare@hotmail.com

LOCATIONS LOCATED OFF 718-954-4108 5FOREST AVE, NEAR PS 22

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Big Bird’s Playhouse

The

Early Childhood Development Program

MASTERMIND

PRE-SCHOOL

System

REGISTER NOW FOR FALL PROGRAMS

POTENTIAL INTO REALITY.

EXTENDED HOURS 6:30AM-6:30PM • INFANTS TO 12 YEARS OLD

We believe your child is filled with the potential beyond the skills demonstrated.

Meals & Snacks Included Daycare & Pre-School 6 Weeks to 5 Years Before & Afterschool Drop Off / Pick Up at P.S. 54, P.S. 58, P.S. 60, P.S. 69 Trained in First Aid and CPR • Low Tuition (Breakfast and Lunch Included) UFT, 1199, ACD & HRA Vouchers Children in Diapers Accepted 9 Fully Air-Conditioned Classrooms • 4 Custom Built Play Grounds Licensed by NYC Bureau of Daycare Family Owned & Operated Since 1991 Licensed Early Childhood Teachers & Staff Staff are CPR & First Aid Certified Multi-Cultural School...Staff speaks Spanish, Italian, Albanian & Arabic Big Bird’s Toddler Time: Ages 2-3, Indoor Gym at 1869 Richmond Ave

Our MasterMind System, based on Progressive Interlocking Development and ABA principles, helps develop your child’s fullest capabilities.

By doing so our system provides a richer life filled with the many joys your child deserves to experience as a child as an adult.

732.813.7333 info@mastermindbehavior.com Our MasterMind Support Group Most is open to all parents of children insurances with autism. Call for info. accepted.

for Sept 2019 For Children Born in 2016

for Sept 2019 For Children Born in 2015

We provide SUPERIOR ABA SERVICES to children with autism.

FREE REGISTRATION FOR PRE-SCHOOL & DAYCARE With Ad

www.bigbirdsplayhouse.com • 1859 Richmond Ave • 718-982-0550

K I D S

Helping Kids One Smile at a Time!

Your Child’s HAPPINESS & DENTAL HEALTH are our #1 prioity!

Board Certified Pediatric Dentistry

FREE FULL DAY PRE-K 3 FOR ALL

FREE FULL DAY PRE-K FOR ALL

Exce ier Prem S.I.’s ic Dental • KIDS & PARENTS: Dental visits can be FUN & STRESS FREE! State ptional, tr g ia in Pedia of-the-A Ped Provid e, • General Anesthesia & Sedation available: rt tric D Office rehensiv In-Office or at Staten Island University Hospital Offic ental Compsonalized e Per are C Over 24 Years Specialty Experience

HALLOWEEN SPECIAL $129 - Exam, cleaning , fluoride, and X-rays $99 - Exam, cleaning, fluoride

C HA

$49 Toddler Special New patients only.

Must mention S.I. Parent coupon.

Serving Children of All Ages and Those with Special Needs

Dr. Lisa Lazzara

H AN LL Ha ave y DY OW Gra llowe our c BUY EEN per titude en ca hild d BA nd on C p a the ound nd th y to ate t K mo . Th ey’ll Ope heir gift st c e c ra r cer and hild eceiv tion tific y w do e $ n 1 ate i to T ll win ating arg a et

Dr. Kathryn Pallonetti

Dr. Rhoderick Blasco

www.sikidsdental.com 4864 Arthur Kill Rd • 718-356-KIDS (5437) Like us on Facebook @ Kids Dental of Staten Island Follow us on Instagram @kidsdentalofsi Major Insurances Accepted. Financing Available.

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ADVERTISER DIRECTORY BIRTHDAY/PARTY SERVICES Fun Station.................................................... 35 iPlay America............................................... 16 Rab’s Country Lanes.................................... 15 Showplace Entertainment Center............... 7 Woodbridge Community Center............... 59

CAMP Richmond County Day Camp..................... 9

DEVELOPMENTAL/ SPECIAL NEEDS

Castleton Hill Moravian Preschool............ 57 Congregation B’Nai Jeshurun.................... 27 Curtis High School........................................ 43 Easterseals Child Development Center.... 31 Fontbonne Hall Academy.......................... 43 Gaynor McCown Expeditionary Learning School.............. 44 Integration Charter...................................... 44 JCC First Foot Forward................................. 64 Mini World Preschool................................... 61 New Dorp Christian Academy................... 57 Notre Dame Academy................................ 39 Saint Peter’s Prep.......................................... 43 SI Technical High School............................. 43

A Very Special Place................................... 25

St Joseph Hill High School........................... 42

American Karate......................................... 31

St Peter’s Boys High School......................... 45

Angela Capece, LMHC, MSEd.................... 60

St. Joseph By The Sea.................................. 41

Claire Guttsman......................................31, 60

St. Joseph Hill Academy

HEALTH Dr Lisa Lazzara (Kids Dental)...................... 62 Fidelis Care New York.................................... 6 JCC................................................................ 64 Ortho Smiles of Staten Island...................... 33 Richmond University Medical Center......... 5 Salvatore R Indelicato, DMD....................... 60 SI Family Music............................................. 61 Small World Dental...................................... 61

MUSIC, THEATER, ART & CLUBS illuminart....................................................... 11 Piano Lessons by Marsha Ponce............... 61

RESTAURANTS / FOOD Better ............................................................. 10 Egger’s Ice Cream Parlor............................ 58

Congregation B’Nai Jeshurun.................... 27

Elementary School.................................. 13

Dr Michael Desimone................................. 60

Staten Island Academy............................... 47

Early Start, Inc............................................... 23

Tots R Us......................................................... 61

RETAIL

Easterseals Child Development Center.... 31

Xaverian........................................................ 41

Empire Outlets.............................................. 21

Eden ll............................................................ 29

Zion Lutheran Preschool.............................. 37

Suzanne’s Fashion Corner.......................... 33

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT, EVENTS & OUTINGS

SERVICES

Proud Moments Therapy............................. 27

Bergen Point Festival.................................... 14

Kurt T Richards PC........................................ 60

PreCare Speech Pathology........................ 60

Delicious Orchards...................................... 19

Quality Care Speech..............................31, 60

Empire Outlets Halloween Bash................. 21

Sandra Mazzucco........................................ 60

SPORTS

Fun Station.................................................... 35

American Karate......................................... 31

South Shore Speech Pathology............31, 60

Grace Foundation Halloween Party.......... 18

Staten Island

JCC................................................................ 64

Historic Richmond Town.............................. 17

Grace Foundation....................................... 29 JCC First Foot Forward................................. 31 Kim Williams-Jenkins LCSW....................31, 60 Mastermind Behavior Services.............29, 62

Developmental Disabilities Council...... 31

iPlay America............................................... 16

Sunny Days Consulting Services................ 27

Prospect Hill Orchards................................. 16

Volunteers of America................................. 31

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

YMCA Counseling........................................ 60

Showplace Entertainment Center............... 7

EDUCATION, PRESCHOOL/DAY CARE

Storybook Land............................................ 17 Von Thun’s Country Market......................... 17 Woodbridge Community Center............... 59

Fidelis Care New York.................................... 6 Ian’s Majestic Murals................................... 61

Master Curry Karate...................................... 3 North Star Yoga............................................ 61 SI Community Tennis Center....................... 59

TUTORS Eye Level ........................................................ 2 FastracKids Staten Island.............................. 2

Big Bird’s Playhouse..................................... 62

77

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PRST STD

info@siparent.com 718.494.1932

U.S. POSTAGE PAID STATEN ISLAND, NY

www.siparent.com

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