Staten Island Parent, November 2021 by Staten Island Parent

November 2021

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Things to Do This Month

November 2021 • siparent.com

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INSIDE

DAVLER•PARENTS PUBLISHING PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Roselle Farina Hecht CONTENT DIRECTORS Katelin Walling, Jeannine Cintron Elizabeth Winchester COMMUNITY CONTENT CREATORS Shara Levine, Barbara Russo DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER Jayson Mena

NOVEMBER 2021

DIRECTORS | PUBLISHING MANAGEMNT Wendy Tittel MANAGING DIRECTOR | PUBLISHING Stacie Goldberg ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Janine Mulé, Jodi Fatto, Gwen Tomaselli

Hosting Holidays: A Thankless Task

One mom’s humorous take on why she prefers not to host family for the holidays

DIRECTOR | OPERATIONS Ray Winn TRAFFIC DIRECTOR Heather Gambaro TRAFFIC COORDINATOR Alice Tank DIGITAL STRATEGIST Anthony Costa INFORMATION Advertising: 718-494-1932 Questions: info@siparent.com KEEP IN TOUCH siparent.com davlermedia.com

The Rise in Kids Illnesses

Common colds and infections are back. Here’s how you can boost your kids’ immunity.

family activities 10 16 18 20

Things to Do This Month 2021 Holiday Fairs Where to Cut Your Own Christmas Tree Ways to Give Back This Season

fun stuff 8 14 26 34 38

Community News Advice: Ask Dad and Buried Birthday Club Just for Moms: Mom’s Night In Local Spotlight: One Sweet Kid!

ILPM @SIParent

23-TIME AWARD-WINNING MAGAZINE Member of the Parenting Media Association 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.

guides

27 Family Health Care Professionals 36 Professional Services

DAVID L. MILLER CEO DAVID FRIEDMAN CFO

4 November 2021 • siparent.com

Join our Learn to Skate Classes & Learn to Play with the NY Rangers!

The Pavilion Skate School is an accomplished Learn to Skate program consistently awarded by U.S. Figure Skating. We have been teaching our community to ice skate for over 25 years. Visit our website www.thepavilion.org to register for classes

Classes beginning in November. Limited Availability!

Staten Island Skating Pavilion 3080 Arthur Kill Road | SI, NY 10309 718-948-4800 | skateschool@thepavilion.org November 2021 • siparent.com

editor’s note

FEELING THANKFUL

Comments? Questions? Suggestions? Don’t be shy! Email me at jcintron@siparent.com

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The Scoop siparent.com/signup Learn about the best family activities happening each weekend, get local news, and find out when we’re hosting contests. GET NEWS, TIPS, AND HUMOR ALL MONTH LONG

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6 November 2021 • siparent.com

t’s been nine years since Hurricane Sandy trampled through our area, leaving mass destruction in its wake. The “superstorm” ripped people from their homes, destroyed irreplaceable possessions, and even claimed lives. Despite our, um, edgy reputation, New Yorkers have an incredible ability to come together in a crisis. We quickly came to the aid of those in need, donating clothing, food, and supplies, offering shelter to displaced friends, and rebuilding together. A week or two after the storm, I was driving in the car with my son, who was 4 at the time, when he suddenly announced that for Christmas, he just wanted his cousins to get their house back. I was overcome with pride at his compassionate and giving spirit. I explained to him that although they weren’t likely to get their home back for a while, there were other ways we could help them. When we got home, he went to work filling boxes with toys, games, and books—anything he could find that might cheer them up a little and replace some of the items they’d lost. It seemed fitting to me that it was November, just a few weeks before Thanksgiving, a time of giving thanks and giving back. My son learned a valuable lesson that day about both. I think it’s important to encourage your children grow up with an appreciation for the things they have and the desire to help those who aren’t as fortunate. Flip to p. 20 for a list of charity drives and volunteer opportunities in which your family can take part this season. Speaking of Thanksgiving, I am thankful for so many things! My children, my friends, my family, my home... But one thing I’m not thankful for? Hosting holidays. Go to p. 24 for more on that. And Mike Julianelle (aka @DadandBuried agrees—flip to p. 14 for his always-hilarious take. After Thanksgiving comes the holiday season, so if you’re itching to get that tree up ASAP, check out p. 18 for our roundup of the best tree farms nearby where you can select and even cut down your family’s holiday tree. Trust me, it’s fun! Have you signed up for our newsletters yet? If not, visit siparent.com/signup and do it now! Doing so will grant you access to exclusive content you’ll only find online, plus you’ll be the first to know about the best family-friendly events and activities in our area. Oh, and we give out some pretty sweet prizes, too. So go sign up now. We’ll wait... Happy November!

Director of Content

SUNDAY - DEC 19 1pm Nicotra’s Ballroom · Hilton Garden Inn 1100 South Avenue · Staten Island

Join the celebration of the Nutcracker’s return. Start with an elegant lunch amid palace guests, then follow dancers off to another land of magic. A unique show immersing you directly into the holiday spirit. A gift for all. $85 per person. Ballet Box office

718-980-0500 charge By Phone

Vaccine proof 12 & up - Under 12 masks THE STATEN ISLAND BALLET IS A 501 (C) (3) NON-PROFIT ARTS ORGANIZATION REGISTERED AT THE NYS ATTORNEY GENERAL’S CHARITIES BUREAU. ALL CONTRIBUTIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE AS ALLOWED BY IRS REGULATIONS.

PROGRAMS ARE SUPPORTED IN PART BY PUBLIC FUNDS FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS AND CITY COUNCIL

November 2021 • siparent.com

community news news

What’s Happening Staten Island?

Local news, major events, community updates, and hot topics BY BARBARA RUSSO

NYC SCHOOLS BEGIN SCREENING FOR SOCIALEMOTIONAL SKILLS

9/11 POSTCARDS MEMORIAL TO ILLUMINATE WITH NEW LIGHTING After years of poor lighting due to its waterfront location, the 9/11 Postcards Memorial will soon shine brighter for Staten Islanders who visit the site to honor those killed on Sept. 11, 2001. Throughout the years, saltwater intrusion caused significant damage to the original underground lighting, which is now in constant need of attention and repair, according to SI Borough President James Oddo, who, along with the New York City Economic Development Corp., secured 8 November 2021 • siparent.com

$750,000 to fund the electrical overhaul. “The Postcards Memorial offers a place of solace and reflection and is an important place for our community,” Oddo said. “While the close proximity to the water is challenging for light infrastructure, we have always been committed to supporting the maintenance of the site and hosting the memorial ceremony on Sept. 11 each year. We were alerted just a few days before this year’s ceremony that the lighting had gone out, and we immediately worked with EDC to create a temporary solution.” The site will have limited access during construction. The public will be notified of a detailed construction timeline once officials have more details, the borough president’s office said.

Staff in New York City public schools started screening students’ social and emotional health to better address their needs after 2 school years of learning disruption due to the pandemic. Teachers conduct the screenings by answering questions online about students’ decision making, self-awareness, and personal responsibility. The city awarded a 3-year, $18 million contract to Aperture, a technology company that created a platform that includes the screening tool and other tools staff can use to determine what help students may need, according to an article on Chalkbeat.org. The new screening process coincides with Mayor Bill de Blasio’s recent announcement to end gifted and talented programs in the city’s public schools. The programs will be replaced by Brilliant NYC, a new accelerated learning program that will be phased in for first- to third-grade students, according to the city.

TOO GOOD FOR DRUGS PROGRAM TO RESUME IN ISLAND SCHOOLS Staten Island’s borough-wide anti-drug curriculum will resume in public schools this fall. The Too Good for Drugs program, launched in 2015 by SI Borough President

LIPM NO MORE LATE FEES AT NYC PUBLIC LIBRARIES NYC’s public libraries will no longer charge late fees for overdue books and other circulating materials, library and city officials announced in October. Existing overdue charges have been erased from all patron accounts, allowing New Yorkers a clean slate at the library. All three of the city’s library systems—New York Public Library, Brooklyn Public Library, and Queens Public Library—eliminated late fees throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and now it’s permanent. The policy overhaul ends an antiquated process that wasn’t incentivizing returns while creating barriers to access for many vulnerable New Yorkers, according to the libraries. Of the 400,000 library accounts that had $15 or more in fines, half were in high-need communities and 30 percent belonged to kids or teens. However, the new charge-free policy is only for approximately 30 days after a book’s due-back date. After that, the library will declare the item “lost” and a replacement fee will be placed on the patron’s account. This charge can vary depending on the original cost of the lost item. For more information about the fine elimination at Staten Island libraries, visit nypl.org.

James Oddo and the NYPD, takes place in fifth-grade, middle- and high-school classrooms to open conversations about addiction, peer pressure, and other issues children face. “The Too Good for Drugs program has been incredibly successful since its start in 2015,” said Assistant Chief Frank A. Vega, commanding officer of patrol borough Staten Island. “The Police Officers throughout Staten Island who are instructors are enthusiastic about getting back into the schools and having these important discussions.” The program resumes this fall. At the completion of each program, a celebration

will be held for the student participants as they take a pledge to abstain from tobacco, alcohol, and drugs.

MAYOR ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF BABY BONDS NYC recently announced the new Baby Bonds program, an expansion of the NYC Kids RISE Save for College program. As of this school year, every kindergartener enrolled in a city public school will have access to an NYC scholarship account, with $100 invested toward their

future education. The program is open to all families of public-school students, regardless of income. “The Save for College Program is all about investing in the future of New York City’s children, and this expansion will provide every kindergarten student citywide with the resources to chase their dreams as they grow up,” said Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter. “This administration has made unprecedented investments in early childhood, and now thanks to our partners at NYC Kids RISE, we can help make sure our babies are set up for success in college, their careers, and beyond.” For more information, visit nyc.gov.

IMPORTANT PUBLIC SCHOOL DATES

• Tuesday, Nov. 2: Election Day—classes are fully remote. • Thursday, Nov. 4: Afternoon parent-teacher conferences for elementary and K-8 schools—students in these schools will be dismissed 3 hours early. • Thursday, Nov. 11: Veterans Day—schools are closed. • Friday, Nov. 12: Afternoon parent-teacher conferences for high schools, K-12, and 6-12 schools—students in these schools will be dismissed 3 hours early. • Thursday, Nov. 18: Afternoon conferences for middle schools and District 75 programs—students in these schools will be dismissed 3 hours early. • Thursday-Friday, Nov. 25-26: Thanksgiving Recess—schools are closed.

November 2021 • siparent.com

family activities

@siparent @siparent

Things to Do in November

all into fun at the many activities planned throughout the borough! Here are some of this month’s most exciting events in Staten Island and nearby. Be sure to call ahead or visit event websites to confirm details and COVID precautions. Go to siparent.com/events for details on the events listed here and even more stuff to do with your family throughout the month!

NYC Winter Lantern Festival

Through Jan. 9, 2022: FridaySunday, 4:30-9:30pm

Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden 1000 Richmond Terrace Walk through 8 acres of light installations featuring brilliant displays of flowers, and open sky and deep-sea adventures. The festival will be open every night, Dec. 24-Jan. 2. $16.99-$24.99.

LEGO Builders

Tuesdays in November, 4-5pm

South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road Children will use their imagination to build with LEGO bricks and jumbo building blocks. Ages 3 and older.

Fall Foliage Tour

Nov. 4-6, Thursday and Saturday, 1-2:30pm

Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace Tour Snug Harbor when the autumn colors are at their most beautiful. The tour begins at the Visitor Info Booth on Chapel Road, continuing through the Pond Garden and ending in the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden. $10. More information at snug-harbor.org. 10 November 2021 • siparent.com

St. Alban’s Holiday Fair

Saturday, Nov. 6, 10am-6pm

St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 76 St. Alban’s Place Get in the holiday spirit at this church fair with lots of items for sale, including books, attic treasures, and toys and games for kids.

Veterans Day Celebration

Saturday, Nov. 6, 11am

Reformed Protestant Dutch Church 54 Port Richmond Ave. Gold Star Father Bob Ollis will give the keynote address. After, there will be a relaxed gathering with light refreshments.

Great Food Expo

Nov. 6-7, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm

New Jersey Expo Center 97 Sunfield Ave., Edison, NJ Sample specialty, gourmet, and ethnic foods, beverages, coffee, and tea. Plus, find cookware and flatware, food and wine destinations, and more.

Culture Eats: Cooking for Curious Kids

Sunday, Nov. 7, 1-3:30pm

Temple Israel Reform Congregation 315 Forest. Ave. In this Argentinian knish workshop, kids will learn how to make potato knishes from scratch. Ages 9 and older. $50. More information at templeisraelsiny.org.

Butterfly Workshop

Sunday, Nov. 7, 2-3pm

Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Learn about the monarch butterfly, why milkweed is so important for this species, how to spot milkweed on your property and more. $10.

Independent Schools provide students the opportunities to participate in all of the arts— performing and fine visual arts. At the Academy, students can act, sing, dance, direct, build sets, run the lights, shoot films, paint, sculpt, draw, compose music, play instruments, create digital art and so much more.

Join us for an open house event to learn more. ALL-SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE

LOWER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE

Students entering Pre-K 3 through Grade 11

Students entering Pre-K 3 through Grade 4

Wednesday, Dec 1 9:30-11:30 AM

Saturday, Jan 29 9 AM-12 Noon

Learn more online at statenislandacademy.org or call 718-303-7803.

November 2021 • siparent.com

family activities

@siparent @siparent

Things to Do in November Cont’d Workshop: Love Letters to the Earth

Sunday, Nov. 7, 2-3pm

Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden 1000 Richmond Terrace Artist Katie Holten invites participants to write letters to the Earth that could take the form of personal stories, poems, words, or planted messages to the future. $5. More information at snug-harbor.org.

Turkey Craft Fun!

Wednesday, Nov. 10, 3:30-4:30pm South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road Gobble gobble! Head to the library to make a cute turkey craft in time for Thanksgiving. Ages 6 and older.

One-Day Fun Camp

Photo credit: Zac Baber

Thursday, Nov. 11, 9am-4pm

Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Bring the kids to the museum to enjoy a day of science experiments, art, outdoor exploring, and exhibit play. Ages 5-9. $85 per child. More information at sichildrensmuseum.org.

Dinosaur Day

Friday, Nov. 12, 3:30-4:30pm

New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane Have a roar-ing good time making a dinosaur craft and reading dinosaur stories. Ages 4-8 with parent/caregiver. Register online or call 718-351-2977.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Celebration

Monday, Nov. 15, 3:30-4:30pm South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road Celebrate Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid books at the library with 12 November 2021 • siparent.com

fun that includes journal decorating, a scavenger hunt, and drawing activities. Ages 7 and older. More information at nypl.org.

Thanksgiving Crafting for Kids

Friday, Nov. 19, 4-4:45pm

Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane Hey kids! Make a festive and fun holiday craft to get you in the Thanksgiving spirit. Ages 4 and older; online registration required. More information at nypl.org.

Colonial Kitchen Tours

Nov. 19-20, Friday-Saturday, time to be announced.

Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave. Costumed interpreters prepare holiday recipes using 19th-century recipes, tools, and techniques in some of Historic Richmond Town’s most beloved kitchens.

Music With Patrick

Nov. 27-28, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-1pm

Board & Brush 2965 Veteran’s Road W. Join Mr. Patrick and his guitar for a super fun children’s music show and make a craft to take home.

Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony

Sunday, Nov. 28, 8pm

St. George Theatre 35 Hyatt St. Vocalist Sarah Brightman joins an orchestra and choir for this holiday performance at the historic St. George Theatre. Tickets start at $79. VIP packages available through Ticketmaster. More at stgeorgetheatre.com.

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2021 • 9:30A.M. – 1:00P.M. Please register for our Open House at

stjosephhillacademy.com/esopenhouse/

Pre-Kindergarten

• Our curriculum is based on the NY State Learning Standards for Pre-K, taking a hands on approach to teaching math and reading skills. • A program that enhances a preschooler’s imagination and problem solving ability. • Technology integration includes Kindles, Smartboard and Infocus applications.

Elementary School • Expansive curriculum for ELA and Math focusing on NY State Learning Standards.

• Blended learning using iPads, Chromebooks. • Introduction to robotics, computer coding, STEM and civics. • Differentiated instruction in all subject areas.

After School Enrichment Program • Extended Day Available

A Catholic school that welcomes students of all faiths in grades Pre-K3 through 8. For more information visit stjosephhillacademy.com 718.981.1187 • 850 Hylan Boulevard • Staten Island, NY 10305 November 2021 • siparent.com

advice

Located in Midland Beach, Staten Island Hebrew Public will open in September 2022 as a K and 1 public charter school, growing to serve grades K-5. We offer a rigorous curriculum and instruction in Modern Hebrew to students of all backgrounds. Apply now for the 2022-2023 school year!

sihebrewpublic.org

Ask DadandBuried Last year, we skipped our traditional family Thanksgiving because of COVID. But my family is vaccinated, and it’s been a long time since we’ve all been together, and I’m excited to host. Am I crazy? —Johnny, Bay Ridge

AD NAME 347.694.5090 ast fall, I fielded a question about dealing with family members’ Tuition-Free | Open To AllH | Diverse By Design 1/4 L opposing political views at Thanksgiving. Gra nd Opening

!‫ה חגיגית‬

‫פתיח‬

829 Father Capodanno Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10305

I’m not exactly an optimist (I’m not sure even optimists were optimistic about much in 2020), but in my response to Marielle from White Plains, I was able to find the silver lining in COVID-19. It basically boiled down to “don’t invite anyone to your house in the middle of a freaking pandemic!” COVID was the perfect excuse to avoid obnoxious Uncle Rufus! It seems crazy to refer to last Thanksgiving as “peaceful,” given the tumult at the time. But if you were cautious, shared your turkey with your inner circle, and only dealt with your in-laws online, it probably was. A year later, things are improving (knock on wood!). Numbers are going down, many of us are vaccinated, and suddenly hosting a big, traditional Thanksgiving dinner seems a little less scary. For better and worse. There will be fewer glitchy Zoom calls to troubleshoot, the kids will get to hug Grandma, and Aunt Carol will bring back her famous sausage bread. On the flipside, the highways and airports will be slammed again and those problematic family members you blissfully avoided last fall are going to be back in your living room. Suddenly, you have no excuse not to invite Uncle Rufus, and you can’t use bad Wi-Fi to avoid a political argument when the person arguing is sitting across the table from you. Still, I say get the extra chairs out and have yourself a good time! The occasional contentious argument or need to recite from Snopes.com is nothing you’re not used to, and they’re a small price to pay for the privilege of breaking bread with family and friends again. Dinner might not be quite as quiet as it was last year, but it will be more normal, at least by pre-COVID standards. That’s something we can all be thankful for.

Our advice column features the wise and humorous commentary of Mike Julianelle (aka @DadandBuried), a 40-something influencer with a popular podcast who lives in Brooklyn with his wife and two kids.

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DADANDBURIED?

Send it to editor@nymetroparents.com with the subject “DadandBuried’s Advice.”

14 November 2021 • siparent.com

November 2021 • siparent.com

family activities

2021 HOLIDAY FAIRS

Enjoy a fun shopping experience at these Staten Island holiday fairs that will put you and your family in the spirit of the season. BY BARBARA RUSSO

hat’s great about shopping on Staten Island this holiday season? You can find beautiful, unique gifts for family and friends, all while supporting local business at a time when they need it most. Many schools, churches, and other organizations are hosting holiday fairs, auctions, and other shopping events starting as early as this month, and leading deep into the holiday season, many of which raise funds for important causes while celebrating the joys of the holiday season. Think of these Staten Island holiday fairs as onestop shopping for all your Christmas, Hanukkah, or festive shopping needs! As always, it’s a good idea to call or check the venue’s website in advance for COVID precautions that may be in place and to confirm the event is still happening as planned. After your shopping is done (or even before!), browse our calendar (siparent.com/events), which is packed with fun and festive holiday events the whole family will enjoy this season!

NOVEMBER Reformed Protestant Dutch Church Community Christmas Holiday Fair

54 Port Richmond Ave. olddutchchurchnyc.org 717-442-7393 WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 7, 1-5pm Visit this holiday fair for more than shopping. Browse handmade gifts including jewelry, embroidery, and art, and stay for a 16 November 2021 • siparent.com

guided tour of the landmark site. Food and drinks available.

The fair also includes luncheons, a parish dinner, and a visit from Santa.

The Church of St. Andrew Holiday Fair

Staten Island Heart Society Friendsgiving Limited Share Lottery

40 Old Mill Road churchofstandrew-si.com 718-351-0900 WHEN: Nov. 12-13, Friday-Saturday, 11am-5pm This holiday fair in Staten Island offers unique gifts and home-made holiday items.

siheart.org 718-351-3115 WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 18 Tickets are $100 with prizes up to $10,000. Only 300 tickets will be sold. More details are available on the website.

Staten Island Council for Animal Welfare Holiday Fair

Immanuel Union Church, 693 Jewett Ave. sicawsaves.org 718-448-1584 WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 20, 10am-4pm Don’t forget about our furry, finned, and feathered friends this holiday season! Browse holiday gifts and tons of raffle baskets, where all proceeds benefit the Staten Island Council for Animal Welfare.

St. Alban’s Episcopal Church Holiday Fair

76 St. Alban’s Place stalbanssi.dioceseny.org 718-984-7756 WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 6, 10am-6pm Lots of vendors set up shop at this annual holiday fair on Staten Island. Browse holiday gifts including books, attic treasures, Christmas items, toys, games, and more.

Monsignor Farrell High School Christmas Fair 2900 Amboy Road msgrfarrellhs.org 718-987-2900 WHEN: Sunday, Nov. 7, 9:30am Shop craft vendors and enjoy raffles and food trucks.

St. John’s Lutheran Church’s Christmas Fair

216 Jewett Ave. stjohnslutheransi.org 718-761-1600 WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 20, 9am-3pm Browse a selection of handmade ornaments and baked goods at this holiday fair.

Christ Lutheran Church Christmas Fair 121 Cleveland Ave. clcsi.net 718-984-6595 WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 20, 9am-3pm Vendors, face painting, raffles, and a bake sale are on-site at this holiday fair.

Team Real Holiday Vendor Fair

2298 Arthur Kill Road teamrealusa.com 347-979-4955 WHEN: Saturday, Nov. 27, 4-8pm Head to this Staten Island gym for more than a good workout. This year the gym will host a holiday fair featuring a variety of items for sale by local vendors, including home décor, art, clothing, and more.

DECEMBER National Lighthouse Museum Holiday Golf Outing South Shore Golf Course 200 Huguenot Ave. lighthousemuseum.org 718-390-0040 WHEN: Friday, Dec. 3, 11:30am The museum will host its annual golf outing with all you can eat and drink, raffles, and more.

EJ Michael’s Holiday Sip & Shop

137 Barnard Ave. ejmichaelsfinecatering.com WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 4, 6-10pm This fun evening shopping event on Staten Island will host a variety of local and national vendors including Mary Kay, Tupperware, Petals on Page, Lil Sweet Treats, and more. There will also be a cash bar and food available for purchase.

Noble Maritime Collection Culture Shop

1000 Richmond Terrace noblemaritime.org WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 4, 11am-4pm Head to the Noble Maritime Collection’s annual Culture Shop where you can browse a variety of handmade items for sale from local artists and craftspeople, including clocks, pottery, jewelry, soaps, and more.

Staten Island Mall Sensory Friendly Holiday Magic

2655 Richmond Ave. statenislandmall.com 718-761-6666 WHEN: Sundays, Dec. 5 and 12, 9:30-10:30am In partnership with Autism Speaks, Sensory Friendly Santa Experience is for children with autism to visit with Santa in a welcoming, sensory-friendly environment.

Christmas Xtravaganza

NYCArtsCypher, 12 Broad St. nycartscypher.org 718-981-8510 WHEN: Dec. 11-12, Saturday-Sunday, 1-6pm Browse vendors, and enjoy music, raffles, and food. Plus, Santa will be there to visit with kids. Bring a toy to be donated to Toys for Tots. ($10 admission)

Sensory Santa Day at Empire Outlets

55 Richmond Terrace empireoutlets.nyc WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 12, 10-11am Autism Speaks presents Sensory Santa day. Sensory Santa day is an opportunity for children with autism and/or sensory processing disorders to visit Santa in a quiet, welcoming, sensory-friendly environment. Reservations required.

Eger Lutheran Homes and Services Scandinavian Holiday Fair

140 Meisner Ave. eger.org 718-979-1800 WHEN: To be announced Check the website for complete details to be announced. November 2021 • siparent.com

family activities

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree These 16 farms in nearby New Jersey are our top picks for finding the perfect tree! BY BARBARA RUSSO

ure, you can head to a local shop and pick out a pre-cut Christmas tree, but why not make a day out of it? Head over to one of the many tree farms in New Jersey and enjoy some holiday fun walking through a Christmas tree winter wonderland! Cut your own tree—or pick out a pre-cut beauty—and indulge in decadent hot chocolate as you enjoy the spirit of the season. As with any outing, it’s best to call in advance to confirm availability, hours, and COVID-19 policies before you go.

to thousands of trees of several different varieties. After picking your tree, visit with farm animals and shop for decorations.

Ann Allen Tree Farm & Shop

35 Orchardside Drive, Cranbury, NJ barclaystreefarm.com • 609-799-1855 Hours: Tree season hours to be announced. Choose from Douglas, white, and Fraser firs, as well as blue and Norway spruces. Saws, rope, and netting are available.

114 Daum Road, Manalapan, NJ anneellenfarms.com • 732-786-9277 Hours: daily, 9am-8pm. First day of tree season to be announced. Located on 50 acres, the farm is home 18 November 2021 • siparent.com

Bear Swamp Farm

81 Otterhole Road, Milford, NJ bearswampfarmnj.com • 973-697-2541 Hours: Nov. 26 and Saturday-Sunday through Dec. 11, 9am-3pm This quaint organic farm lets visitors find and cut their own tree or purchase a pre-cut one.

Barclay’s Christmas Tree Farm

Bullock Farms

83 Emleys Hill Road, Cream Ridge, NJ bullockfarms.com • 609-758-8726 Hours: Tree season opens Nov. 26; FridaySunday, 9am-5pm A mainstay in the area since 1860, this 100-acre farm specializes in cut-your-own trees, bagged feed, and straw. There’s also a craft and gift shop on-site.

Charlie Brown’s Christmas Tree Farm

231 Adamic Hill Road, Milford, NJ charliebrownschristmastreefarm.com 908-995-4365 Hours: Tree season opens Nov. 26; check the website for updated hours. This 40-acre farm is veteran-owned. Decorated wreaths, grave blankets, roping, and holiday decorations are also for sale.

Cherryville Farms

352 Quakertown Road, Pittstown, NJ cherryvillefarmsnj.com • 908-806-4580 Hours: Tree season hours to be announced. Staff will cut your chosen tree, or you can cut your own. Hand saws are available.

Giamarese Farm

155 Fresh Ponds Road, East Brunswick, NJ giamaresefarm.com • 732-821-9494 Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-4:30pm. Trees will be available late November through Christmas Eve. Browse 35 acres of farmland to choose from Colorado blue and Norway spruces, and Douglas and concolor firs. Pre-cut Fraser firs are available. There is also a farmers’ market offering seasonal produce.

Habiak Farms

317 Deans Rhode Hall Road, South Brunswick Township, NJ habiak-farms.business.site 908-917-6388 Hours: Saturday-Sunday, 9am-5pm. Trees: end of November through December. Cut your own tree or choose a pre-cut one. The farm also sells wreaths, grave blankets, and kissing balls.

Keris Tree Farm

848 Route 524, Allentown, NJ kerischristmastreefarm.com 609-259-0720 Hours: Nov. 20-Dec. 24, Tuesday-Sunday, 9am-5pm Choose from trees by the foot, balled trees,

fresh pre-cut Canadian balsam and Frasier fir, and seasonal greenery. There is also a Christmas Shop that features hand-made ornaments, artisan crafts, and more.

Lazy Susan Tree Farm

184 Sharon Road, Robbinsville, NJ lazysusantreefarm.com • 609-529-8379 Hours: Friday, Nov. 26, 9am-5pm; through Dec. 19: Saturday-Sunday, 9am-5pm. This farm usually has a visit from Santa on select days (check the website for updates). Choose from Douglas, balsam and concolor firs. The farm also sells homemade soy candles in a variety of holiday scents.

Patterson Greenhouses

636 Adelphia Road, Freehold, NJ pattersongreenhouses.com 732-431-5271 Hours: Trees available Nov. 27-Dec. 23; call for updated hours. More than 10 acres of trees that you can cut or have professionally dug. Starting Nov. 27, you can tag a tree and come back to pick it up. Also for sale are wreaths, grave blankets, swags, sprays, and roping.

Picea Acres

50 S. New Prospect Road, Jackson Township, NJ piceaacres.com • 732-370-8733 Hours: Monday-Friday, 11am-5pm; Saturday-Sunday, 9am-5pm. Tree season is after Thanksgiving Day and ends when the farm sells out. Along with a large selection of trees, the

farm sells handmade wreaths and grave blankets. Roping for the tree is available.

Simonson Farms

118-260 Dey Road, Cranbury, NJ simonsonfarms.com • 609-799-0140 Hours: To be announced. This Christmas tree farm offers pre-cut, choose-and-cut, balled, and burlap trees.

The Evergreen Farm

4 Bass Lane, Lebanon, NJ theevergreenfarm.com • 908-236-9550 Hours: To be announced. This 12-acre farm has Christmas trees, wreaths, roping, porch pots, accessories, and stands for sale.

Westhaven Farm Inc.

725 Route 524, Allentown, NJ westhavenfarminc.com • 609-259-2186 Hours: Tree hours are Friday-Sunday, 9am-5pm, starting Nov. 26. Douglas fir and blue and Norway spruces available. Grave blankest, wreaths, poinsettias, and other decorations are for sale. The farm also offers a wagon ride and free hot cocoa and cookies when it’s cold.

Wyckoff’s Christmas Tree Farm

246 County Road 519, Belvidere, NJ wyckoffs.com • 908-475-4508 Hours: Tree season begins Nov. 26, 8am-4:30pm; after that: Monday-Friday, 10am-4:30pm This farm has more than 5,000 trees, plus wreaths, grave blankets, décor, and more.

Now

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Ti n y Tr e a s u r e s A c a d e m y • 3 6 0 V a n D u z e r S t r e e t , 1 0 3 0 4 • 6 4 6 - 9 4 6 - 6 5 8 5

November 2021 • siparent.com

family activities

Giving Giving Back Back This This Season Season

These local organizations are accepting donations for the holidays and have volunteer opportunities for families. BY BARBARA RUSSO

he holidays are a wonderful time to show how thankful you are for life’s blessings by giving to those who are less fortunate. Here are some opportunities in Staten Island for those looking to give back this holiday season.

WHERE TO DONATE TOYS & COATS New York Cares

newyorkcares.org 212-228-5000 For the last 30 years, New York Cares has organized the city’s largest winter coat drive, gathering more than 1.8 million winter coats. Last year the organization collected and distributed 109,000 winter coats to families who would have otherwise faced a winter without one. For a map of drop-off locations where you can donate a warm coat to someone in need, visit newyorkcares.org. The organization also offers many volunteer opportunities, with more than 1,600 listed on their website per month, including opportunities for teens and kids older than 6.

Richard Gardner Jr. Memorial Fund rgtoydrive.org 718-981-2016

20 November 2021 • siparent.com

Since 1995, the Richard Gardner Jr. Memorial Fund has held Christmas parties for sick and underprivileged children, donating thousands of toys in memory of a young police officer who was killed. Every year, the organization reaches out to underprivileged families, sick children, underprivileged day care centers, children without families, organizations assisting families of domestic violence, underprivileged churches, and children with sick parents. This year, the fund plans to visit children at Richmond University Medical Center and Staten Island University Hospital on Dec. 24. The toy drive will be held at Castleton Corners Pub (1815 Victory Blvd.) on Dec. 4 from 6-10pm. Call or email toys@rgtoydrive.org for more information.

Secret Sandy Claus Project

sscpny.org 646-623-7542 The organization originally began to deliver toys and relief items to thousands of families affected by Hurricane Sandy. It has since helped many more children in need, whether they be children battling cancer, with a disability, experiencing

homelessness, in a foster home, or who are economically disadvantaged. Details about where to drop off a toy donation will be announced soon. Call or visit the website for more information.

Toys 4 Autism

toys4autism.org John Louis Sublett is once again encouraging Staten Islanders to open their hearts for children with special needs. In the past, with the help of his son, John Jr., who has autism, and the South Shore Rotary Club, he was able to fill 180 gift bags with specialized toys and distribute them to the students of P.S 37, a school for children with developmental delays. John Jr. is a former student at P.S. 37. This year, Sublett aims to fill 400 gift bags for children attending special education schools on Staten Island. You can donate specialized toys to Toys 4 Autism via its Amazon Wish List or donate on GoFundMe.

Toys For Tots

toysfortots.org Run by the U.S. Marine Corps, Toys for continued on p. 22

Visit with Santa See Santa Claus wave his magic wand and light the park with over 1 million lights for the holiday season!

Ticket prices online: 26 + tax At the gate: $2995 + tax per person $

Kids under 2 years old get in for FREE!

Christmas begins

November 13!

Visit with Santa and Mrs Claus until December 23rd Visit our website for hours of operation and updates www.storybookland.com 6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Twp., NJ 08234 (a stone’s throw from Atlantic City) | 609-646-0103

November 2021 • siparent.com

continued from p. 20

Tots collects and distributes toys to children in need during the holidays so they can experience the joys of the season. There are nearly 40,000 Marines, Marine Corps League members, veteran Marines, and volunteers involved in annual campaigns nationwide. It is accepting brand-new, unopened, unwrapped toys, or monetary donations for less fortunate children in the community through December. Visit the website to find local campaigns or to make a monetary donation.

Where To Turn’s Holiday Toy Drive where-to-turn.org The organization works to provide crisis relief services for victims of tragedies by aiding them in obtaining the help they need during the recovery process. Each year, the organization collects and distributes toys through its warehouse at 22 Brienna Court, but this year the store will be virtual. Check the website or email Dennis McKeon at dennis.mckeon@where-to-turn.org for details about drive.

WHERE TO DONATE FOOD City Harvest

cityharvest.org 646-412-0600 City Harvest is a food rescue organization that helps to feed more than 1.5 million New Yorkers who are struggling to put meals on their tables. The organization plans to collect 111 million pounds of food this year and deliver it, free of charge, to hundreds of food pantries, soup kitchens, and other community organizations across the five boroughs. Visit the website to learn how you can help.

Project Hospitality

battling addiction. You can donate a variety of items to its food pantry, including fresh fruits and vegetables, in addition to non-perishables. Visit the website for a list of the most in-demand items. Food donations can be dropped off at the Community Services Center at 514 Bay St., Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. You can also donate holiday supplies, including turkeys and food for a holiday feast, holiday gifts and toys, Halloween costumes, Easter baskets, and other holiday items. Call for more information.

WHERE TO DONATE MONEY OR VOLUNTEER Catholic Charities of Staten Island

cc-si.org 718-984-1500 The organization works to serve the Staten Island community through a variety of direct services. These services include infant and preschool day care, residential and other programs for developmentally challenged youth, social services to families in crisis, assistance to senior citizens, and more. Visit the website for more information.

Cops Care for Kids

copscareforkids.org 646-470-3038 Started by an NYPD lieutenant and his wife, Cops Care for Kids aims to help pediatric patients with long term illnesses and disabilities by providing financial and emotional support. The children receive plaques and junior police badges for their strength and bravery as well as plenty of toys. You can donate on the organization’s website.

Maddie’s Sweet Treats Shop

Facebook Group: Maddie’s Sweet Treats Shop Maddie French is only 9, but she’s making a big difference in her community. The Staten Island resident recently launched Maddie’s Sweet Treats Shop where she sells her own homemade baked goods and donates part of the proceeds to a new charity each month. Past charities have

been the JCC’s Sunrise Day Camp and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, both based on Staten Island. Check Maddie’s Facebook page to learn how you can (deliciously!) support the latest charity Maddie has scheduled for the holiday season—and turn to p. 38 for more information.

Meals On Wheels of Staten Island mealsonwheelsofstatenisland.com 718-727-4435 Meals on Wheels serves to ensure elderly people in the community receive nutritious meals and the human connection they need to help them live independently, by delivering two meals per day to senior citizens who live alone. Anyone older than 18 with a driver’s license and 2 free hours one morning per week can apply to deliver meals. To donate or find out about volunteering, visit the website.

Project Hospitality

projecthospitality.org 718-448-1544 This Staten Island-based organization serves the hungry and homeless, as well as people living with HIV & AIDS, those with mental illnesses, and people battling addiction. It’s always looking for volunteers, ages 16 and older, to assist in its soup kitchen, food and clothing pantries, with child care services, tutoring, fundraising events, and more. For more information, to donate, and to download an application, visit the website.

Where To Turn’s Snow Shoveling for Seniors

where-to-turn.org The organization works to provide crisis relief services for victims of tragedies by aiding them in obtaining the help they need during the recovery process. Where to Turn recruits student volunteers every year, each of whom adopts 1 of 2,500 Staten Island seniors who are registered with the program to shovel their driveways and walkways, free of charge, when it snows. Visit the website to apply.

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November 2021 • siparent.com

just for moms

Hosting Holidays:

A Thankless Task BY JEANNINE CINTRON

“I’ll have Christmas at

my house. You can do Thanksgiving.

”

his is the exact conversation I have with my family every year when the holidays approach. Somehow what was once a treasured time to celebrate special days with loved ones has morphed into a violent game of hostess dodgeball, where we all desperately attempt to avoid being pelted by the dreaded holiday hosting obligations. If my grandmother were still alive, I wonder if she’d be the type who would happily host every occasion from A to Z, force-feeding us endless mozzarella-covered entrées and homemade Italian pastries. I bet she would have been that grandma, no questions asked. In fact, she would be downright insulted by the mere suggestion of someone else hosting. Unfortunately, my sweet grandmother passed away in 1987, and thus the hosting wars began.

24 November 2021 • siparent.com

But I did Thanksgiving last year and I “undercooked the turkey and almost got everyone sick! Why can’t our cousins ever host? They always come here with one cheap little bottle of wine, stuff their faces, and then have the nerve to ask for leftovers!

”

As a kid, we mostly ping-ponged between my mother’s house and my aunt’s. We have a small family, so the options were always limited. Now that I’m an adult and can cook a turkey all by myself (well, sort of...), I’ve been added to the short list of hosts. I have to say, it’s been a cranberry sauce-and-gravy-soaked nightmare. It’s not that I don’t love seeing my family. We’re spread across Staten Island, Brooklyn, and New Jersey, so it’s always a pleasure to get together and make up for lost time. But it’s never a picnic for the flustered hostess du jour. While everyone else is catching up, sipping wine, and nibbling appetizers, the hostess is chained to a hot stove. Sweat covers her brow and oven mitts fly off her busy hands as she simultaneously chops, preps, fries, roasts, sautés, braises, and mashes—all while quietly praying the food won’t be cold and tasteless by the time it gets to the table. Even if dinner is perfectly warm and delicious, there will always be a few unhappy campers. It’s impossible to please everybody. In my family, some people don’t eat meat, some people seem to only eat meat, and some are on a never-ending low-fat, low-carb, low-calorie, low-taste diet. One relative refuses to eat anything with garlic or onions (don’t ask me why he married into an Italian family), another can’t eat anything chewy, and at least two people are lactose intolerant. That’s not even counting all of the picky kids! Hosting is a costly endeavor as well. Even if you’re fortunate to have family members who contribute, pot-luck style, bringing home-cooked dishes of their own creation instead of cheap wine (I’m looking at you, cousin Jen!), you’ll still be stuck with a hefty grocery tab. Even when you try to keep it simple, it always adds up.

Then, after all the shopping and pre-cooking is complete, you’ve got to whip the house into shape. There’s always that one painfully rude relative who never fails to point out the dust on the fan blades or the loose Cheerios under the kitchen table. Who needs that? So after the turkey goes in, the mop and broom come out. I clean before the sun comes up whenever I’m hosting because anyone with kids knows how easy it is to wash floors with kids running around. Sure, it’ll probably be a mess again by dinnertime, but at least I tried. And if Rude Relative points out the rogue potato peel on the floor by the garbage, I’m hiding it in her food. Your own family doesn’t help the situation at all. The kids’ instructions are simple: get dressed, stay clean, and stay out of the way. You enlist your husband’s help with the seemingly simple task of keeping them occupied all day. And maybe he does—until football starts, of course (I mean, at least set the table first, hun!). After a while, the kids are chasing each other around the kitchen, sticking their fingers in the food, messing up their holiday outfits, and whining because Daddy shut off their cartoons to watch sports. You’re 10 seconds from losing your mind and no one seems to care. If you’re anything like me, you’re already burnt out long before the guests arrive. You’ve been scrubbing since dawn, cooking since Tuesday, and dreading it all since the day you agreed to host. But, like the perfect hostess you are, you grab an apron, dole out some welcome hugs, and power through the exhaustion. And you (somehow) do it all with a smile because you’re a total rock star. They say there’s no place like home for the holidays. But I respectfully disagree.

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November 2021 • siparent.com

fun stuff

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26 November 2021 • siparent.com

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Parents rely on Staten Island Parent and SIParent.com to find local health care professionals On the following pages you’ll find important health information and Staten Island family health care professionals.

Meet Your Local

FAMILY HEALTH CARE

Professionals

November 2021 • siparent.com

FAMILY HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

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November 2021 • siparent.com

HEALTH GUIDE

The Rise in Kids Illnesses As COVID safety guidelines loosen, common colds and infections are back. Here’s what to look out for and how to boost kids’ immunity. BY GINA LAMB-AMATO, M.D.

ince the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, common childhood viral infections were, until recently, seen at a much lower rate in the pediatric population. COVID-19 preventive measures like lockdowns, mask-wearing, social distancing, staying inside, and cleaning surfaces at an increased frequency, prevented common respiratory and gastrointestinal viral infections from spreading in children. Now that children, for the most part, are not in lockdown and the above COVID-19 preventive protocols have become more universally relaxed in the U.S., pediatricians are seeing an uptick in respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases.

WHAT’S GOING AROUND?

RSV infections, which cause respiratory and pneumonia illnesses in babies younger than 1, started being diagnosed this spring and summer and continue to be a threat. Before the pandemic, RSV was mainly seen in the winter months. During the pandemic lockdown, RSV and other viruses including influenza A, influenza B, norovirus (aka the stomach bug), and parainfluenza (a virus that causes colds, bronchitis, and other illnesses) were at much lower levels than pre-pandemic lockdown.

DECREASED IMMUNITY

Children’s social and school life were extremely restricted when schools, preschools, nursery schools, and day care programs were shut down. Normally, babies and children

30 November 2021 • siparent.com

develop their immune system by being exposed to viruses, bacteria, funguses, and other microbes. When babies and young children play in the dirt with other kids, they are exposed to microbes, which helps them develop and regulate their immune systems. They further develop immunities to different childhood diseases when they enter school or a day care setting. The lockdown’s strict hygiene protocols, along with being kept at home, prevented children from exposure to microbes and the opportunity to develop their immune systems. Since very young children have not been exposed to non-COVID-19 infectious diseases like colds and the flu, they have not developed and increased antibodies to these illnesses. Therefore, children do not have the strong immune system that they would have normally developed. Now that kids are returning to school, they are at risk for having decreased immunity to pediatric infectious diseases. Another reason for decreased immunity is that many kids did not get the immunizations they needed during the pandemic lockdown.

IMMUNITY BOOSTERS

There are many ways to boost your child’s immune system, from diet choices to encouraging a healthy lifestyle. Breast is Best: For newborns, breast-feed if you’re able. There is colostrum in breast milk, which helps build your baby’s immunity.

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HEALTH GUIDE Wash Your Hands: Have your child wash their hands frequently, especially when they come inside your home and before meals. Have them sing “Happy Birthday,” which is about 30 seconds long and an essential duration to kill viruses, bacteria, and fungi. There are other hand-washing songs and games, such as “Baby Shark,” which is available on YouTube. Stay on Track: Make sure to keep your child up to date with all their vaccines. When children do not get their immunizations according to schedule, they are at risk for childhood diseases. Follow Doctor’s Orders: Please don’t insist on antibiotics if your pediatrician recommends otherwise. Unnecessary, chronic overuse of antibiotics causes antibiotic resistance and weakens the immune system’s response to infections. Then, when antibiotics really are needed, they don’t work as well. Be Good to Your Gut: Excellent nutrition boosts immunity. Probiotics and prebiotics are great for your child’s gut health. » Kefir, sauerkraut, yogurt, and pickles are good sources of probiotics. » Prebiotics, which are plant-based, help stimulate good bacteria to grow in the gut. Plantains, yams, and asparagus provide prebiotics. Snack Well: Make sure your kids have a varied diet to get all the nutrients they need, such as: » Nuts, seeds, and beans are good snacks to promote immunity. They contain zinc, which is one of the most important minerals that boost kids’ immune systems, as well as vitamin E and healthy fats. They support the immune system to function optimally because they have antioxidant properties. » If your child eats meat or animal-based foods, they are good sources of zinc. » Oranges and grapefruits are an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C prevents cell damage, promotes collagen production, and lowers cortisol, which is the hormone that can cause stress. » Blueberries have natural antihistamines, which help reduce inflammation. They have many antioxidants, including flavonoids, which can minimize symptoms of stomach virus and colds. » Apple skins contain quercetin, a flavonoid that decreases inflammation. Encourage your child to eat the whole apple, including the peel.

» Pears also contain vitamin C and anti-inflammatory flavonoids in their peels. Get Cooking: Cook with vegetables and spices, like broccoli, dark leafy greens, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and bell peppers. Leafy green vegetables have vitamins A, B6, C, D (helps with blood clotting), and K; magnesium; and calcium, which help your child’s immune system fight infection. The antioxidants help to detoxify a child’s system from pollution, chemicals, infectious diseases, and high levels of sugar. Supplement if Needed: It is better for kids to boost their immunity through eating the right foods rather than taking supplements. However, some children are picky eaters and the only way to get vitamins and probiotics into them is with supplements. » Keep in mind that supplements are not regulated by the government the way medications are regulated. When you buy vitamins or minerals, these products have not been evaluated for FDA approval. Some supplements contain ingredients and quantities of ingredients that aren’t mentioned. With more and more fortified foods like breakfast cereals, granola bars, orange juice, and even fortified water, your child’s vitamin intake might be excessive with supplements, and can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients. If your child is taking medication for an illness, supplements can interact and have an adverse effect on their immune system. » Supplements will never replace proper nutrition from food. Get creative! If kids don’t consume leafy greens, for example, make zucchini muffins or smoothies! » One supplement to give kids is vitamin D since kids cannot get enough of it from food. The natural way to get vitamin D is through sun exposure, but that is difficult because children often use sunscreen when outdoors. Rest: Sleep is when a child’s body rests, regenerates, and heals. Sleep deprivation is associated with decreased immunity. Move: Exercise builds resilience in children, thereby making them able to fight infectious diseases. Get outside with your kids! Keep Calm: Finally, it is important to reduce stress and anxiety in children to boost their immunity. This can be done through mindfulness activities, yoga, meditation, and deep breathing. Helping children decrease stress is one of the best immune boosters.

Gina Lamb-Amato, M.D., is a pediatrician who has worked in conjunction with Mount Sinai’s pediatric team. She has a master’s degree in child development and child psychology and helps perform consultations and evaluations for children ages newborn to 12. She also runs parent-child playgroups, where play, art, baby massage, and other techniques are used to help children develop optimally. She has training and expertise in COVID-19 and offers consultations for parents to help their children cope with the stress of the pandemic.

Nvember 2021 • siparent.com

FAMILY HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

Dr. Salvatore Indelicato DMD, PC

A long time resident of Staten Island, Dr. Salvatore Indelicato has been providing personal, gentle, quality orthodontic care to the Staten Island community for over 25 years. He received his dental degree, with highest honors, from the University of Florida and completed his orthodontic specialty training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Our state-of-the-art practice provides digital scanning and orthodontic treatments for children as well as adults. Recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, Dr. Indelicato is Board-Certified and is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics. 444 Huguenot Ave. Staten Island, NY 10312 718-967-5213 Instagram @bracesbydrsal

bracesbydrindelicato.com

Healthcare Associates in Medicine

a division of Orlin & Cohen Medical Specialists Group

Same-day services for adults and children with new injuries or conditions is offered at our Walk-In Centers on Hylan Blvd. Our fully equipped Orthopedic Walk-In Center is capable of performing onsite x-rays, treating strains, sprains, contusions, fractures, muscle or joint injuries, pain and more. At our Neuroscience Walk-In Center, we can provide early diagnosis for headaches, minor concussions, stiff-necks, backaches, or other problems relating to your head, neck and back. For those with pre-existing conditions or requiring further evaluation, please call for an appointment. 718.667.7500 Orthopedic Walk-In Center | 3333 Hylan Blvd • 10306 Neuroscience Walk-In Center | 3311 Hylan Blvd • 10306

www.HCA-SI.com

Kids Dental

Dr. Lisa Lazzara received her dental degree from SUNY Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine and graduated as valedictorian of her class and then continued her education by completing a two year pediatric specialty training program at LIJ/ Schneider’s Children’s Hospital in Long Island. Our state of the art practice features specialized and comprehensive dental care, digital imaging and laser surgery for all infants, children, teens, and those with special needs. Our goal is to help each child - one smile at a time! Our dentists are board certified and our entire team focuses on making your child’s dental visit fun and enjoyable. It is my personal mission to treat your child how I would expect someone to treat my own children. 4864 Arthur Kill Rd Staten Island, NY 10309 718-356-KIDS (5437)

www.sikidsdental.com • Instagram @kidsdentalofsi

32 November 2021 • siparent.com

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FAMILY HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

November 2021 • siparent.com

just for moms

In The House

These picks are just what the doctor ordered for a cozy mom’s night in. BY ZLATA FAERMAN

f the holiday season had a pep rally, its name would be November. The month is notorious for being the jumpstart to all-things merry, bright, and eight days and nights. Call me a stereotyper, but moms are always the most overwhelmed during this time. We’re figuring out who to host for Thanksgiving and what to serve, what presents to get the kids, and let’s not forget about staying on top of the kids' schoolwork and extracurriculars! The most stressful time deserves an evening (or two or three) of doing whatever it is mom wants to do. Personally, I’d be happy binging Netflix shows and devouring LiveKuna’s KunaPops. Here are my top picks for how to spend a memorable and/or uneventful mom’s night in.

A mom’s night in can be pretty awesome if you’re inviting other moms to stay in with you. It’s even better when you don’t have to cook for all of them. Enter: Potluck (potluck.us). With this app, you have the ability to determine who is bringing what. While Potluck helps put the ease on in-person gatherings, you can also utilize it for virtual gatherings.

When I watch TV at night and online shop at the same time, I have no fewer than 30 tabs open, so I like to call this experience “window shopping.” Clothes, shoes, and bags are fun, but my current obsession is Ryan Porter (shopryanporter.com), where I shop custom jewelry for friends, fam, and myself—duh.

34 November 2021 • siparent.com

I absolutely love to get creative with charcuterie and sharing boards. It’s almost a therapeutic expression of art that I get to eat afterward. My favorite things to include: all of the cheeses, salami, and dark chocolate by Kuli Kuli Foods (trust me on this) piled on a Stryve Biltong Slab (trust me on this, too!). (kulikulifoods.com and stryve.com)

If you haven’t yet heard of Hands Down (@handsdowncookies on Instagram), then you’re missing out! This one-woman show by Alyson Levine makes gourmet, ready-tobake, pre-portioned cookie dough, delivered straight to your door. Prepared fresh with the highest quality ingredients and frozen for peak flavor, Hands Down cookie dough balls are packed by the dozen in vacuum-sealed packages, ready for baking whenever you are. Making these is an actual event in my house and is truly an exceptional cookie experience.

Jiggy Puzzles are a great way to wind down after a busy day (week? month? year?). They were created by ex-theSkimm employee Kaylin Marcotte, who used puzzles as her nightly meditation from her demanding work but found many uninspiring. So, Marcotte set out to create a new kind of puzzle—an elevated, modern take on the classic jigsaw—and is supporting female emerging artists from around the world at the same time (jiggypuzzles.com). A percentage of each sale goes to the artist.

Ear seeds are adhesive seeds that you stick to certain points of your ear. Yinova’s ear seed kits (yinovacenter.com) include crystal and gold, which not only look pretty, but also enhance health and wellness as they stimulate pressure points. They’re a form of auricular acupuncture, which considers the ear a microcosm of the rest of the body. Meaning, you’re able to treat every part of your body through small pressure points in the ear. The ear seeds are said to be effective for treating many chronic conditions. It’s worth a try, right?

Mom-Culture Picks

Editor Jeannine Cintron shares what she’s obsessed with this month.

WHAT WE’RE STREAMING: WORKIN’ MOMS » You don’t have to be a working mom—frankly, being a mom is leaps and bounds harder than any actual paid position I’ve ever had—to fall in love with Netflix’s side-splitting series about a group of mom friends and their adventures into parenting while clinging desperately to their careers. So if you’re looking for a fun weekend binge, put this one in your queue ASAP.

WHAT WE’RE LISTENING TO: CRIME WEEKLY » What is it about murder that grabs us and keeps us listen-

ing long after the kids have gone to bed? Why are the tales of others’ extreme misfortune the key to relaxation at the end of a long day? Don’t ask me! All I know is, I’m far from alone with my crime show obsession, and Crime Weekly with Stephanie Harlowe and Derrick Lavasseur is my favorite by far. The podcast takes listeners down a long and winding path, exploring every available nook and cranny of each case it covers in fascinating detail. As a former homicide detective, Lavasseur offers an investigatory perspective that many other crime podcasts can’t, which is what makes this one stand out amongst the many, many others.

WHO WE’RE READING: TAYLOR JENKINS REID » Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid is one of

the most unique books I’ve read in a long time. Fans of the movie Almost Famous will likely tear through the book in a very short time. After finishing it, I quickly ordered The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, which I also devoured, loving its Hollywood-glitz-and-glam-with-a-twist vibe. I just started her latest Malibu Rising, which was touted as a “beach read,” after its June 2021 release date. But I’m sure it will be just as good if I’m curled up in a blanket by the fireplace.

WHO WE’RE LISTENING TO: OLIVIA RODRIGO » Sure, she’s probably young enough to be your kid, but her catchy pop tunes have all the justified angst of Alanis Morissette circa 1996. You’ll find yourself angry with your ex all over again—even if you broke up before Olivia Rodrigo was born.

FALL TENNIS LESSONS Offering Morning, Evening, & Weekend Classes for All Levels

C URTIS H IGH S CHOOL Information Night

Thursday, November 18 • 2 SESSIONS 5:30 AND 6:30PM Come see which of our SMALL LEARNING COMMUNITIES suits your interests:

6 Indoor Air-conditioned Courts 6 Outdoor Courts SI Community Tennis Center 2800 Victory Blvd 718.982.3355 | statenislandtennis.com

• International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) • International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) • Software Engineering Institute • Visual & Performing Arts • Human & Legal Studies • Navy JROTC • Media Studies @ Journalism Institute • Nursing

Learn about our many clubs, activities, & PSAL Athletic Teams

Please contact Linda Padula with any questions (718) 390-1800 x1097 | email: lpadula2@schools.nyc.gov

Pre-registration required! Scan QR code to register or visit www.curtishs.org

November 2021 • siparent.com

Professional Services DIRECTORY Seeking out nearby resources in legal services, speech development, therapy or other specific need? These local professionals can help.

ATTORNEYS KURT T. RICHARDS, P.C. Attorney at Law 1200 South Ave., Suite 201 • SI, NY 718-720-1000 www.krichardspc.com

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

ORTHODONTICS SALVATORE R. INDELICATO, D.M.D., P.C. 444 Huguenot Ave. • SI, NY 10312 718-967-5213 www.bracesbydrindelicato.com

Our office follows all Covid-19 safety guidelines from the CDC, ADA & AAO. Mini & Clear Braces, Invisalign, Digital Scanner, Free Consults. Gentle, personal, quality care for children/adults. American Assoc. of Orthodontists & Diplomate of American Board of Orthodontics Member.

PSYCHOTHERAPISTS MICHAEL DESIMONE PH.D, LCSW

175 Burbank Ave., New Dorp • 917-301-5962 michael.w.desimone@gmail.com www.michaeldesimonetherapy.com

Offering Telehealth therapy sessions via telephone or video during the pandemic. Treating a number of Acute Stress Disorders triggered by the ongoing threat of COVID-19. I continue to provide mental health services related to anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, loss and grief for adults, adolescents and latency age children. Private and confidential.

SPEECH PATHOLOGY SANDRA MAZZUCCO M.A., C.C.C.-SLP Annadale Town: 465 Belfield Ave. North Shore: 1076 Forest Ave. 718-815-6024

NYS Licensed Speech Language Pathologist. Evaluations & Therapeutic Intervention for Children & Adults, PROMPT Trained, Oral Motor & Feeding Therapy, Specializing in Fluency. ASHA Certified. Following COVID-19 Guidelines. Telehealth available.

Dr. Aleksandr Orlovskiy, MD Dr. Marina Fest, DNP-C

Your Health Specialist 2076 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306 718-979-4865 • SIMMCPC@GMAIL.COM

Schedule Now!

WWW.MODERN-MEDICALCARE.COM

Modern medical care is a multi-specialty practice. Two primary care providers are Dr. Marina Fest, DNP-C and Dr. Aleksandr Orlovskiy, MD. We provide primary care services to patients 14 years and older. In office procedures include: lab work, ultrasound diagnostics, allergy testing/ immunotherapy, im/iv infusions, acute and chronic disease management, physical and pre-operative clearances, weight loss program. Also available in the office cardiologist, endocrinologist, surgeon.

Learn about: • the best family activities happening each weekend,

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36 November 2021 • siparent.com

• get local news, • find out when we’re hosting contests.

ADVERTISER INDEX DEVELOPMENTAL / SPECIAL NEEDS

Dr. Michael Desimone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 JCC of Staten Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Sandra Mazzucco (Speech & Language Pathology) . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 SI YMCA Counseling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

FAMILY FUN

Gabby’s Dollhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

FIND OUT IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE FOR WIC!

¡ENTÉRESE SI ES ELEGIBLE PARA WIC!

For pregnant and postpartum women, @ and children under age 5. Does not consider immigration status and is not part of the public charge.

Apoya a mujeres embarazadas y en postparto, y a niños menores de 5 años. No toma en cuenta el estatus migratorio y no es carga pública.

Offers nutritious foods, nutrition counseling, and breastfeeding.

Ofrece alimentos nutritivos, asesoría de nutrición y de lactancia.

NYBG - Train Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Rab’s Country Lanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 SI Skating Pavilion/ Prodigy Preschool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Staten Island Ballet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Storybook Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

HEALTH

Delco Drugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Dr. Lisa Lazzara (Kids Dental) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Kurt T Richards Pc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Modern Medical Care PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Richmond University Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Salvatore R Indelicato, D.M.D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 & 36 SIUH Community Relations Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Health Care Associates in Medicine, a Division of Orlin & Cohen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Our Preschool uses The Creative Curriculum for preschool. The Creative Curriculum encourages children to experiment, explore and pursue their own interest, while learning. Our school will now have UPK and UPK3, Where we will follow the D.O.E curriculum.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Kinetic Communities Consulting Corporation (KC3): Electrify Staten Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Victor Sala Home Inspection LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

SCHOOLS & TUTORING

Bright Minds Academy Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

St Joseph Hill Academy Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Bright Minds Academy 877-826-2060 www.bma.school

Staten Island Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

75 Skyline Drive • Staten Island, NY • 10304

Curtis High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Huntington Learning Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Staten Island Hebrew Public Charter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Tiny Treasures Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

SERVICES

The Family Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Hunger Free America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Let’s get s o

cial!

SPORTS, MUSIC & ART

JCC of Staten Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Master Curry Karate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 SI Community Tennis Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 SI Skating Pavilion/ Prodigy Preschool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Staten Island LaCrosse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Follow @SIParent

e, family fun, for even more advic and news!

siparent.com November 2021 • siparent.com

local spotlight

This is One Sweet Kid!

Staten Island 9-year-old finds a delicious way to care for her community BY BARBARA RUSSO

ine-year-old Staten Islander Maddie French recently launched Maddie’s Sweet Treats Shop. She bakes and sells her own homemade baked goods, with proceeds going to a new charity each month. So far, the young entrepreneur has donated to two Staten Island-based charities, including the JCC’s Sunrise Day Camp and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. “I love baking, and I wanted to think of a way to raise money for others,” Maddie says. “I want to make a difference in other people’s lives.” Maddie is no novice when it comes to baking. She’s been making her specialty items—including chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal cookies, blueberry scones, and raspberry mint iced tea—since a young age (even younger than 9!) Her mom Illana helps, but it’s really Maddie doing most of the work. Her dad and younger brother are part of the business, too, helping with quality control as official taste testers.

SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH

Illana and Maddie run a Facebook Group called Maddie’s Sweet Treats Shop. Customers can see the charity of the month, browse the menu, and place their orders. Then, the busy baker gets to work in the kitchen to ensure all orders are done in time for pickup. New menu items are added each month, perfect for those of us with a sweet tooth. In September, Maddie’s featured sweet was a coconut macaroon adorned with a chocolate and caramel drizzle. Everything is organic and made from scratch, according to Maddie. Customers can also attend monthly pop-up events in different locations that Maddie and her mom promote in advance on Facebook and by word-of-mouth.

THE BUSINESS BEHIND THE BAKING

Maddie had the idea for a bake shop last year, but like any

38 November 2021 • siparent.com

successful business owner, she took her time developing a business and marketing plan that would help turn her dream into a reality. “I said to my mom, ‘I’m starting up a business’,” Maddie explains. “So, I went right to the computer in the basement, and I started working on the marketing—the name, the colors, the menu—and I made a poster with Maddie’s Sweet Treats on it.” Her family was supportive along the way. “This continued for about a year, her just planning and planning,” Illana says. “I told her a long time ago to never let anyone stop you from living your dream.” Maddie launched her business in July of this year with a grand opening pop-up event outside her house to benefit Sunrise Day Camp. In September and October, she raised money for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. To date, she’s raised approximately $1,000 for both charities. In addition to helping her community, Maddie is also learning the business of…business. She’s learning time management, marketing, and how to create a business from scratch, according to Illana. “She enjoys baking, and baking is fun for her. But I want to make sure she’s also gaining the experience of running a business,” Illana explains. Maddie’s latest pop-up event was at Bella Bean Cafe, and the proceeds will go to the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance, which raises awareness about tuberous sclerosis complex, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form in different organs of the body. While there are no pop-ups scheduled for November, you can check her Facebook Group and order treats online. Illana says she and her husband are very proud of their daughter and what she’s doing to help others. “I’m in awe of who my daughter is, every single day,” she says. “It’s just unbelievable how proud I am of her.”

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HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISION

U.S. POSTAGE PAID STATEN ISLAND, NY

info@siparent.com 718.494.1932

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Staten Island Parent, November 2021

Articles inside

The Rise in Kids Illnesses

Ways to Give Back This Season

Things to Do This Month

Advice: Ask Dad and Buried

This is One Sweet Kid!