New York Family July 1, 2011

New Parents Mega Expo

JULY 2011

Details on pg. 63

July 2011 Established 1986

OUR

ANNUAL WWW.NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

GUIDE

TO RAISING KIDS

IN THE CITY GO GREEN CULTIVATING A FOODIE KID

NEW YORK FAMILY

NYC’S GREATEST FAMILY ADVENTURES Cover_0711.indd 1

EMILY

Mortimer

FROM BRITAIN TO BROOKLYN TO CARS 2 6/24/11 11:59 AM

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The New York Foundling is helping thousands of people fight the ravages of poverty, substance abuse and violence -we are keeping children safe and families whole. Consider… _____________________________________________________

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inside

July 2011

58 32

42 66 FEATURES 26 | An englishWomAn in neW York How British Actress And Mom Of Two, Emily Mortimer, Set Up Shop In Brooklyn While Making Memorable Family Flicks Like Cars 2 31 | The UlTimATe gUide To rAising kids in nYC 32 Culture Ready, Set, Explore: 15 City Experiences To Share With Your Child 38 Parenting Perspectives In Parenting: A Round-Up Of Our Favorite Stories Over The Past Year 42 ShoPPing What’s In Store: From Baby To Tween, Some Of Our Favorite Spots To Shop For Children 44 ClaSSeS Best In Class: Whatever Your Child’s Passion, The City Offers A Wealth Of Extracurricular Offerings To Choose From

58 exPeCtant and new ParentS Now What?: From Building The Ideal Registry To Dealing With Your Mother-In-Law, Some Expert Guidance And Advice For Expectant And New Parents 62 new ParentS exPo Our Favorite Things: A Sneak Peek At Some Of The Best And Brightest Products From New York Family’s Upcoming New Parents Expo 68 BirthdayS Happy Birthday Basics: Everything You Need To Know About Planning The Special Day Plus, A Foolproof Guide To Gift-Giving For Every Age 64 | FAmilY heAlTh & Wellness It’s Good To Be Green: Practical Advice To Living An Eco-Friendly And Healthy Life (And How The Kids Can Help) 66 what’s For dinner?: How To Raise A Kid With Food Sense

colUmnS 12 | ediTor’s noTe Graduation 22 | A good ideA At The Bronx Zoo’s Summer Zoofari, Life-Sized LEGO Animals Aim To Teach And Inspire 78 | The lAsT Word When A Son Gives Up Hand-Holding, It’s More Than Just Letting Go dEpARTmEnTS 14 | WelCome To The FAmilY The New Parents Expo, two great giveaways and what’s happening at newyorkfamily.com 16 | bUzzWorThY From a traveling word game to a book that makes life in the city an outdoor adventure, five of summer’s best items for the on-the-go family 24 | Ten ideAs Our monthly round-up of family fun in the city

The cover: Lottie at Atelier Management for Chanel; Sarah Potempa for Aussie at The Wall Group; Dress by Honor; Jewelry by Kelly Gerber @ me.n.u 1042 Lexington Avenue; Photography by Thaddeus Harden (thaddeusharden.com)

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New York Family | July 2011

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www.newyorkfamily.com

6/27/11 8:55 AM

IN THE CI TY

Back to School Fall Registration is Underway!

Adult Participation Classes ages 1-4 Rock, Smocks & Animals

Live Music, Art, A New Animal Every Week & Petting Zoo!

Gentle Separation Play Group age 2

Monday-Thursday Mornings Our warm, cozy atmosphere and our nurturing staff will help your child to separate and relax. And best of all, our animals will get their attention. This combination will allow your child to feel safe and get ready to separate.

After School Classes ages 3-8

Mini Chef • Art Adventures & More • Animal Care

Have Your Birthday Party on the farm!

Register for a semester of classes & receive 5 Afternoon Drop In Play Time passes!

The Art Farm In The City 419 East 91 St., NY • 212.410.3117 Come Explore TheArtFarms.org and Discover Programs for all Ages!

Classes

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Camp

Drop In

editor And co-Publisher Eric Messinger emessinger @ manhattanmedia.com senior editor Whitney Casser wcasser @ manhattanmedia.com AssociAte editor Kat Harrison kharrison @ manhattanmedia.com Art director George W. Widmer gwidmer @ manhattanmedia.com style director Joy Sherwood jsherwood @ manhattanmedia.com listings editor Sandy Krulwich skrulwich @manhattanmedia.com Production MAnAger Mark Stinson mstinson @manhattanmedia.com dePuty Production MAnAgers Heather Mulcahey hmulcahey @ manhattanmedia.com Jessica Balaschak jbalaschak@ manhattanmedia.com Photo editor Andrew Schwartz aschwartz@ manhattanmedia.com contributing PhotogrAPher Thaddeus Harden contributing writers Mary DiPalermo, Melanie Dostis, Grace Duggan, Kelly Farrell, Allegra Levine (Style), Gavriella Mahpour, Chandni Rathod, Maria Riley, Nancy Ryerson, Elora Tocci Publisher John Hurley 212-268-3086, jhurley @ manhattanmedia.com AssociAte Publisher Mary Ann Oklesson maoklesson @manhattanmedia.com senior Account MAnAger Gina Waldman gwaldman @ manhattanmedia.com new PArents exPo Rebecca Martin 212-284-9732, rmartin @ manhattanmedia.com circulAtion Joe Bendik jbendik@ manhattanmedia.com Advertising coordinAtor Jennie Valenti jvalenti @ manhattanmedia.com business MAnAger Shawn Scott sscott@ manhattanmedia.com Accounts MAnAger Kathy Pollyea kpollyea @ manhattanmedia.com Manhattan Media President/ceo Tom Allon tallon @ manhattanmedia.com cFo/coo Joanne Harras jharras @ manhattanmedia.com Founding Publisher Barbara Witt director oF interActive MArketing And digitAl strAtegy Jay Gissen jgissen @manhattanmedia.com web Production director Lesley Seigel lseigel @ manhattanmedia.com events MAnAger Stephanie Musso smusso @ manhattanmedia.com new york Family is a division of Manhattan Media, publishers of Avenue magazine, our town, west side spirit, new york Press, Mitzvah Magazine, the capitol, city hall, city Arts, chelsea clinton news, the westsider and the blackboard Awards. Š 2011 Manhattan Media, llc | 79 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor, new york, ny 10016 | t: 212.268.8600 | f: 212.268.0577 www.manhattanmedia.com

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www.newyorkfamily.com

6/27/11 12:14 PM

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56010_NYFamily_full pg.indd 1

6/9/11 4:02 PM

NOTE

Graduation

New York Family | July 2011

Ed Note_0711.indd 12

Established 1986

OUR

ANNUAL

GUIDE

TO RAISING KIDS

IN THE CITY GO GREEN CULTIVATING A FOODIE KID

NEW YORK FAMILY

12

July 2011

WWW.NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

I’m writing this note the day after my 11-year-old daughter’s graduation from grade school. At drop-off today, I wondered why another dad was milling about (rather than rushing off to work like usual) and I remembered that he had a younger child in the school too and was probably waiting to attend a year-end function for first graders.

Jealous is too strong a word, but I did feel a pang of loss and dislocation, of wanting to trade places. My daughter is growing up—and I’ll no longer be intimately connected to this wonderful haven of learning and nurturing (a public school, by the way) that did such a good job of helping to raise her.

Every July, we make the magazine less about the month at hand and more of a guide to raising kids in the city. If we do our job well, you’ll find lots of tidbits of information and inspiration to help you navigate the day-to-day of parent-

ing. This is probably a stretch, but I like to think that in some way we’re helping you amass your own treasure of special parenting moments and experiences—so that when those future graduations suddenly come upon you, at least you’ll have the satisfaction of feeling close to your child and that the years were well spent.

With that hope in mind, I’d like to highlight a few particular articles in the issue (though of course you should read them all). What’s New York City if not a mind-boggling multitude of great things to share with kids? What I love about “Ready, Set, Explore!,” which begins on page 32, is that it not only features some “big name” attractions like our famous parades, it also honors the neighborhood diners, ethnic museums, and our great kids sports leagues (led by a legion of parent volunteers). Another gem, “It’s Good To Be Green,” on page 64, offers all sorts of good advice and perspective for holistic eco-friendly family living, without getting overwhelmed. And “Now

JULY 2011

editor’s

New Parents Mega Expo

Details on pg. 63

NYC’S GREATEST FAMILY ADVENTURES

EMILY

Mortimer

Cover_0711.indd 1

FROM BRITAIN TO BROOKLYN TO CARS 2 6/24/11 11:59 AM

What?” on page 58, is a nice potpourri of new-parent advice on everything from registries to babyproofing.

Then there’s Mary DiPalermo’s “The Last Word” essay (page 78) about the moment when her school-age child is no longer keen on holding hands with her.

All I can say is . . . enjoy it while it lasts.

And enjoy July too, Eric MEssiNGEr EdiTOr emessinger@manhattanmedia.com

www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 3:44 PM

Welcome to the Family UPCOMING EVENTS THE NEW PARENTS EXPO

Welcoming new and expectant parents from the New York metropolitan area and beyond, the New Parents Expo this fall is slated to be the single biggest consumer event for parents in the nation this year! The weekend event will help parents discover many of the best products in maternity, baby and toddler from national and local companies, and will offer an inspiring menu of lectures, seminars and demonstrations from experts in the world of family and parenting. The show includes a speaker series, a stroller test drive track, a mother’s lounge, a fashion runway and much more! The event will be held October 15 and 16 at Pier 92.

To learn more and to purchase tickets, visit newparentsexpo.com. (For more details, see page 63.)

ON THE WEB

GET YOUR DAILY SCOOP RECIPE CONTEST WINNERS

We are thrilled to announce the winners of our recipe contest with Sprout Foods and MiniMunchers.com. Jamie Levine is our Grand Prize Winner with her Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto recipe. Other winners include Nan Foster for Antioxidoodles Sweet Potato Chocolate Chip Cookies; Nicki Bradley for Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Pancakes; Sandra Holbrook for Buckwheat Sweet Potato Pancakes; and Jacob Cook for Ginger Chicken Multigrain Mac. See our Yummy Delicious blog for the delicious recipes.

Have you had your Daily Scoop today? The editors at New York Family want to make your daily website visit truly worth it! To keep you informed, The Daily Scoop serves up family fun, parenting news, shopping tips, and timely articles every day. The Scoop offers the best of family life in NYC and beyond. If you’ve been getting your daily fill, you’d know all about the city’s great summer family events at Central Park, Madison Square Park, Union Square Park and beyond. You’d also be in the know about our great weekly giveaways! The easiest ways to follow Scoop are either by visiting newyorkfamily.com, or following us on Facebook, Twitter, or Scoop’s RSS feed. If you want the weekly version of Scoop, you can also sign up for our free newsletter. Have a wonderful idea or suggestion for The Daily Scoop? Please write to us at newyorkfamily@manhattanmedia.com.

CONTESTS & GIVEAWAYS PRO TENNIS MATCH TICKETS

Get pumped for the US Open early this summer as Martina Hingis and the NY SPORTIMES take on Serena Williams and the Washington Kastles in the World TeamTennis Pro League. This is the last match of the 2011 regular season! And we have seats for the game on Wednesday, July 20 at Randall’s Island. Four lucky New York Family readers will win a pair of tickets to the match. To enter, send us an email explaining why you’d like to win: newyorkfamily@manhattanmedia.com and put “Tennis Match” in the subject line. Be sure to include your contact info, including address. Deadline to enter is Friday, July 15.

LET’S GO FOR A STROLL

For state-of-the-art strolling, the Orbit Baby G2 stroller is top-of-the-line. This high-tech pram features innovative QuadShock™ suspension, giving your little one peace of mind and a smooth ride. Plus, the new ventilation system includes a perforated seat shell, airflow channels and wicking fabric. What more could a new parent ask for? To enter to win a new G2 Orbit stroller, write to us at newyorkfamily@manhattanmedia.com and put “Orbit Stroller” in the subject line and include your contact information.

Deadline to enter is Friday, July 29.

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New York Family | July 2011

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SPELL-IT!

The CheCklisT for

Meet the newest member of the Bananagrams Family, ZIP-IT! The fast and furious two-player game is a crossword race that can be played anytime, anywhere in as little as 20 seconds. The letter cubes are packaged in a compact cloth pouch and are fitted with colored zippers that keep score. On the road or in the air, ZIP-IT will delight parents and kids alike. ZIP-IT even comes packaged with Weords, Bananagrams all-new mini-dictionary featuring “weird words that win word games” (i.e., “Q” words that do not have a “U”). The game caters to ages 7 and up. For more information, visit bananagrams.com.

DoLLS, DoLLS EvErywhErE

Whether you’re a collector or just have a little one who’s a doll aficionado, the Madame Alexander Doll Company is a must-see in the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the shop’s historic Heritage Gallery to see more than 600 Madame Alexander dolls from the 1920s to the present.

The shop also offers behind-the-scenes tours of the design, sewing and production rooms, as well as a trip to The Doll Hospital where dolls are (what else?) mended. Madame Alexander caters with customizable event packages for birthday parties, tea parties and hands-on doll making workshops. The store is located at 615 West 131st Street, 6th Floor. For more information, visit madamealexander.com.

F a I r y Ta L E T u n E S

Little ones can jam out to Moey’s Music Party’s new DVD and CD entitled “Happy Ever Moey: A Fairy Tale Lark in Central Park.” Kids’ bedtime favorites like Country Mouse & City Mouse and The Three Little Pigs transform into peppy songs with a contemporary twist. Parents will appreciate the modern lessons for children on gender roles, diversity and conflict resolution. Snow White and Sleeping Beauty become heroes and sing “I’m no helpless maiden, the whole world is awaitin!” For more information (and to join the party!), visit moeysmusicparty.com.

n aT u r E C a L L S ( I n T h E C I T y )

Parents across the city rejoice! We have found the perfect guide for urban families looking for nature themed activities for all four seasons.

It’s a Jungle Out There!: 52 Nature Adventures for City Kids by Jennifer Ward offers a wonderful array of games, explorations, and adventures for children ages 4-8. This travel-sized, illustrated gem features useful ideas for kids usually boxed in by skyscrapers to enjoy the natural world outside. Inside, parents will find creative craft ideas including an “Easy Breezy Wind Sock” and a bird search. For more information, visit trumpeterbooks.com.

6 0 S E C o n D S To wa r m T h

Mother’s new best friend yoomi promises warm milk anytime and anywhere. Designed by fellow parents who were frustrated with the challenge of heating milk on the go, yoomi is a rechargeable, selfwarming baby bottle system. With simply the push of a button, yoomi can heat breast milk and formula to the ideal temperature of 86-90˚ in just 60 seconds. This BPA-free and ergonomically designed bottle is easy to hold and feels natural for your baby. Milk will stay warm for up to an hour. For more information, visit yoomi.com.

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25

BROAD STREET In the heart of Manhattan’s oldest neighborhood lies 25 Broad at the Exchange, a historically landmarked building in the Financial District that embraces the old and the new in its one and two bedroom residences.

Complete with a child’s playroom equipped with a DVD player and a Nintendo Wii game console, as well as plenty of living space in each unit, the new 25 Broad offers the perfect set-up for couples and young families. The playroom is designed for a wide range of activities to please toddlers to tweens. “We’ve had a lot of interest from families. A lot of the people coming through the door are couples, pregnant or with recent children,” says David Sigman, the Executive Vice President and Principal of the building’s developer LCOR. And the entertainment isn’t just for kids, the building also boasts a residents’ lounge with a flat screen TV, a catering kitchen and pool tables, as well as a high technology 3-D golf simulator that’s garnering much attention.

For new golfers, the simulator offers a place to perfect a swing or practice form without the judgment factor that comes with playing on the green. For the more experienced golfer, it allows for off-season practice and features championship courses from Pebble Beach to Pinehurst, providing the challenge and enjoyment of heading to the links around the world without ever leaving Manhattan.

For residents looking to stay in shape, they need not look further than the building’s full fitness center. The gym offers a full range of universal weights and fitness machines. For yoga lovers, there is a separate studio for yoga, Pilates, dance and stretching.

Residences feature high ceilings, spacious closets and sizeable living areas, especially in comparison to some of the newer downtown buildings.

“The rooms themselves are more generously sized,” notes Sigman. “Even second bedrooms are larger than what most people would expect.”

Sleek, high-level finishes separate 25 Broad Street from many buildings in the area.

Fully equipped open kitchens are perfect for cooking a family dinner or preparing to entertain. Each kitchen comes with stainless steel Bosch appliances, Miele dishwashers, and Liebherr refrigerators. There is also a washer and dryer in each apartment, and additional storage space in the building.

Master bathrooms are lined with glass wall tiles and Bianco Laso marble floors.

Mirrored medicine cabinets hang over porcelain undermount sinks with Waterworks features, while full-size soaking bathtubs offer the ultimate in relaxation.

25 Broad Street is surrounded by parks, playgrounds, pedestrian-use only cobblestone streets and has a 24-hour doorman, making it an ideal place for raising young children. The Financial District also offers families plenty of local culture, shopping and dining. Its central location means easy access to city transportation, as well as nearby ferries and water taxis to New Jersey, Staten Island and Brooklyn.

With over 8,000 square feet of new amenities and 35 unique layouts to choose from, 25 Broad Street offers virtually unmatchable perks for the budding Manhattan family looking for a place to call home.

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New York Family | July 2011

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Address: 25 Broad Street Prices: 1BRs from $3,395/mo, 2BRs from $4,995/mo Developer: LCOR Interior Designer: Me and General Architect: CetraRuddy Marketing: Rose Associates, Inc. Leasing Office: 877.681.5085 Website: 25broadnyc.com www.newyorkfamily.com

6/27/11 1:19 PM

EXCLUSIVE MARKETING & LEASING AGENT:

special promotional section

Dream BuilDing ONE Of ThE MOST fAMily-friENDly BuilDiNgS iN NEW yOrk CiTy

1 rECTOr PArk For those seeking a brand new condominium home amidst endless green space with the Hudson River in their backyard, 1 Rector Park has emerged as the clear choice for discerning families. Located at 333 Rector Place and surrounded by 36 acres of landscaped parks in the beautiful waterside enclave of Battery Park City, this highly desirable luxury building offers easy verdant living.

Tricia Hayes Cole, Executive Managing Director of Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group, says that the building’s larger homes are especially popular. “Our spacious three and four bedroom homes, many of which offer sweeping park and river views, have certainly been a draw,” she says.

Not surprising given 1 Rector Park’s studio to four bedroom residences have been designed to optimize the building’s panoramic water views. Spacious and contemporary, most feature balconies with a few offering generous outdoor terraces. The homes also offer two different selections—Warm or Cool Palettes— of flooring, kitchen and bathroom finishes.

And since the building is completely finished,

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New York Family | July 2011

buyers can tour the residences to gain a full appreciation of space, scale and light.

Residences are ready for immediate occupancy with new modern appliances, including a Bosch washer and dryer, an iPod docking station with built-in speakers, and a wall-mounted television in master bathrooms. Kitchens feature custom Shaker-style hardwood cabinetry, along with fittings by Waterworks.

1 Rector Park allows instant access to all Battery Park City has to offer. With endless year-round recreational activities, from soccer and basketball to jogging and cross-training, the neighborhood has it all, including shaded walkways, meadows, a marina, and plush green lawns.

“Our residents love having so many opportunities for recreation right outside their front door,” Cole adds.

While the neighborhood provides instant gratification from the great outdoors, staying indoors at 1 Rector Park is also a stimulating experience. Residents enjoy a host of amenities including Bar and Books— a private lounge and event space, and Little Door—a generously scaled children’s playroom. There is also a fully equipped fitness center, a business and homework center with state-of-the-art technology, as well as on-site parking, a 24-hour attended desk in the newly redesigned lobby and Abigail Michaels concierge services.

Furthermore, purchasing is made easy at 1 Rector Park. With FHA and FNMA approval, 1 Rector Park provides seamless access to mortgage alternatives and a variety of preferred lenders, including Bank of America, Met Life and Wells Fargo. It is no surprise that 1 Rector Park is selling at a very brisk pace.

Address: 333 Rector Place Prices: Studio to Four Bedroom Residences starting at $460,000 Developer: 333 Rector Park – River Rose, LLC Architect: Costas Kondylis Exclusive Marketing & Sales Agent: Corcoran Sunshine Marketing Group Sales Office 888-810-1638 Website: 1rectorpark.com www.newyorkfamily.com

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MOvE in nOW

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ExclusivE MarkEting & salEs agEnt: CorCoran SunShine Marketing group. the CoMpLete oFFering terMS are in an oFFering pLan aVaiLaBLe FroM the SponSor. FiLe no. CD08-0089. SponSor: 333 reCtor park – riVer roSe, LLC, 1114 aVenue oF the aMeriCaS, neW York, nY 10036.

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

a good

idea

BuiLd a GOriLLa

at The Bronx Zoo’s Summer Zoofari, Life-Sized LeGO animals aim To Teach and inspire

BY ChaNdNi Rathod A visit to the Bronx Zoo usually entails animal attractions, lessons about the natural world and, if you’re lucky, a ride on the bug carousel. A single trip to the zoo can help turn your child into a mini-veterinarian, a young science teacher or an animal enthusiast.

This summer, prepare to add LEGO engineer to the list.

From July through the end of September, the Wildlife Conservation Society’s (WCS) Bronx Zoo and LEGO have teamed up to create The Great Summer Zoofari; A LEGO Wildlife Expedition.

Master Builders will expertly shape LEGO pieces into intricate, lifesized lions and tigers and bears. In an effort to help visitors learn more about the zoo and the Wildlife Conservation Society’s global field work, the series of LEGO-inspired sculptures will inhabit the park all summer, alongside real-life animals. You’ll find Kihansi Spray Toads near the Reptile House Lawn; Chilean Flamingos by the Pheasant Aviary; and the zoo’s own LEGO-made King Kong at the Congo Gorilla Forest.

“Children love animals and they love LEGOS. The combination of the two is sure to make a lasting impression on our guests,” says Max Pulsinelli, WCS Assistant Director of Communications. “The Great Summer Zoofari – A LEGO Wildlife Expedition was developed to use the popularity of animals and LEGOs together to further connect our visitors to wild nature and help tell the story of the Earth’s endangered wildlife in an entertaining way,” he explains. “We focused on species that are both

exhibited at the zoo and benefit from WCS’s field conservation work around the globe.”

Upon entering the park, Zoofari adventurers will receive a “Passport” to guide them through the new exhibit, packed with interesting factoids. Along the way, kids can stop to get their “Passport” stamped while learning how they can help make a difference in protecting the wildlife.

Little zoo-goers can also assist LEGO Master Builders as they continue to construct the various animal-themed sculptures, like penguins and giraffes. Ultimately, the Master Builders will oversee the building of a giant LEGO Mystery Mural in the Dancing Crane Pavilion, which will reveal an animal scene when construction is complete.

Looking for more family fun? The park will also be featuring Wildlife Theater shows, crafts and activities in collaboration with the Museum for African Art—which re-opens on the Museum Mile in September 2011—as well as conservation learning stations.

The Bank of America Explorer Zone will host educational displays to teach visitors why field scientists track animals in the wild with camera traps and how gorilla conservationists determine habitat areas that need safeguarding. At a kid-friendly lunch tray station, tots can try their hand at preparing meals for gorillas, tigers and bears.

For a hands-on approach, plan a Zoofari day via the Bronx Zoo’s Interactive Trip Planner. Kids can chart their own adventure to visit much-loved animals by following a colorful drawing of the zoo’s online map. After making their selections, the map cleverly configures the fastest routes to your children’s chosen exhibits.

Safari-goers can edit and reroute their personal guide until it’s adventure-ready.

While expanding your knowledge of local and global wildlife and conservation, you just might find yourself going home with the next Jane Goodall.

The Great Summer Zoofari; A LEGO Wildlife Expedition is presented by Disney Vacation Club and sponsored by Bank of America. To learn more about the Bronx Zoo and The Great Summer Zoofari, visit bronxzoo.com.

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GREAT IDEAS

FOR JULY

Begins July 7

CREATE-A-COMIC

[Ages 10+] Dabble in the arts with artist Ivan Velez and watch your youngster’s pencil fly free. The Ghost Rider writer is partnering up with the New York Public Library to bring you interactive comic workshops.

Join the talented creator on Tuesday afternoons for his ‘Horror Workshop’ (July 7, 14, 21) where your child will learn how to add a scary twist to drawn characters. On Thursday afternoons Velez hosts a ‘Tales of Terror-Manga Drawing Workshop’ (July 12, 19, 26). He will lead classes on plotting stories and brainstorming characters. Classes are free and begin at 4pm. (New York Public Library at 224 East 125th Street, 212- 534-5050, nypl.org/ locations/125th-street.)

SummerStage July 10

FOREVER YOUNG [All Ages]

City Parks Foundation will present it’s first-ever commission to honor SummerStage’s newest program, in an afternoon extravaganza presented

by Disney. The celebration at Central Park’s Mainstage will feature puppetry, music and workshops to remind families that being a grown-up isn’t nearly as fun as growing up! The day’s roster includes: rock band The Verve Pipe, playing hits off “The Family Album,” and The Zany Umbrella Circus, which will dazzle audiences with its circus acts created especially for SummerStage. Oran Etkin, the notable clarinetist, improviser and the brains behind Timbalooloo, will also grace the stage, as will the Thunderbird American Indian Dancers, whose songs and dances bring American Indian cultural traditions to life. The event is free and begins at 3 pm.

(830 Fifth Avenue, 212-360-2756, summerstage.org.)

July 14, 21, 28 July 8, 14, 22, 29

FRESH AIR FLICKS

[All Ages] While parks across the five boroughs offer a range of drive-in-esque movie options for adults, plenty of kid-friendly flicks will be screened this month as well. On July 8, Hudson River Park will show the Jaden Smith remix of The Karate Kid. Bring youngsters back on July 29 to watch Woody, Buzz and the gang’s final adventure in Toy Story 3. On July 14, yell Ghostbusters! every time you make a phone call in preparation for the screening at Brooklyn Bridge Park. And the Intrepid Museum will continue to make the past cool with Back to the Future on July 22. Films are free, but bring your own snacks. (Pier 46, 212-627-2021, riverflicks.com; Pier 1 Harbor View Lawn, 718-802-0603, brooklynbridgepark.org; Pier 86 West 45th Street and 12th Ave., 212-245-0072, intrepidmuseum.org.)

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RIVER DANCE [Ages 7+]

Set your dramatic side free on Thursdays this month, courtesy of Riverside Park’s Children’s Performance Series. On July 14, the FunkeyMonkeys will present their unique blend of music and comedy. Their work ranges from the hilarious--“Baba Ganoush (Do You Wanna Eat A Pita?)”serves as a tribute to pita sandwiches--to the inspirational--“Listen to the Mustn’ts” sets Shel Silverstein’s classic poem of the same title to music. On July 21, The Bossy Frog Band will have the kids feelin’ so groovy that they won’t even realize the funky beats have been developed to facilitate their personal growth. On July 28, Junior Jam will keep youngsters entertained and engaged with its lively mix of catchy, creative tunes. All performances are free and run from 10:30 to 11:30 am. (Pier I at 70th Street, 212408-0219, riversideparkfund.org.)

July 16

DRAGON DAY [All Ages]

Join the New York Hall of Science for their Dragon Boat Family Day, a special one-day event during which visitors can learn about the ancient Chinese art of dragon boats. Kids will be able to test their strength and race on rowing machines and view massive (not to mention decorative!) forty-foot-long dragon boats. In August, these boats will be participating in the boat races of the annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival of New York in Flushing Meadows Corona Park (13-14).

The Hall’s festivities will even include a traditional Chinese Lion Dance. Event is free with museum admission. (New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th Street, Queens, 718-699-0005, nysci.org.)

July 23

RIDE DOWN MEMORY LANE [Ages 5+]

Soak up the history and charm of historic Coney Island on the New York Transit Museum’s Coney Island Nostalgia Train. In the morning, enjoy exclusive access to the Museum’s exhibits and store. At noon, board the Nostalgia Train, which takes a scenic above-and-below-ground route to the iconic destination. Tour guides will lead the journey, bringing riders through a history of Coney Island and discussing the future of what was once a must-see for anyone visiting New York.

Upon arrival, riders may choose to spend the day delighting in the amusement park and splashing in the ocean, or they may stay on the train to learn more about the history for the remainder of the two-hour ride. Tickets are $25 for children 5-17 and $50 for adults. (Corner of Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street, 212-878-0106, mta.info/mta/museum.)

Through August 7

OHM!

[Ages 3-8]

Back for another limited-time run, The Ohmies: Morning Wish Garden invites your imaginative tots to dance, stretch, and ha-ha-ha in an interactive www.newyorkfamily.com

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performance setting. Get ready to sing along with Science yourWorld youngster’s newFestival best friends: Bella Butterfly, Carlin Caterpillar, and Mr. Sun as they present original songs and yoga-inspired moves. But The Ohmies is more than just children’s theater. Dedicated to the health and wellness sphere, there will even be fitness mats for preschool-aged theatergoers to groove on. Loose fitted clothing and colorful socks encouraged! Time and dates of performances vary, tickets are $35.00. (Peter Jay Sharp Theater, 212-279-4200, theohmies.com.)

The Berenstain Bears

All Summer

A TIDAL EDUCATION [Ages 6 & up] Soak up the beach without putting a toe in the sand. Head to the New York Aquarium’s “Explore the Shore” exhibit, which features an outdoor touch pool with an array of beach creatures to see and feel. Stand confidently underneath a raging tidal wave to observe the action, learn how water creatures use gills to survive through videos and displays, and watch electric eels and knifefish that electrocute their prey. Outdoor touch pool open only in summer. (New York Aquarium, 602 Surf Avenue, 718-265-3474, nyaquarium.com.)

Through September 4

MUSICAL BEARS [Pre-K-3rd grade]

Everyone’s favorite fuzzy family is bringing its heartwarming story to the live stage. “The Berenstain Bears in Family Matters, The Musical” at the Manhattan Movement and Arts Center will give an all-access pass into the Berenstain family’s action-packed world inside the tree

house. Sigh as Papa Bear struggles to conquer his junk food addiction, worry for Brother Bear as his grades fall, wince as Sister Bear spends too much time talking to strangers and see what happens when Mama Bear puts her paw down to get this beloved family back on track. Fans of the popular book series will be delighted to see that the icons and imagery of the book remain unchanged. Shows start at 2 pm and tickets range from $29.95$59.95. (248 West 60th Street, 212787-1178, berenstainbearslive.com.)

Through September 25

GET CURIOUS [Ages 3 -7]

Learning doesn’t have to stop when summer’s in session—especially when a favorite cartoon friend is around to keep kids curious!

Until the end of September, children can learn with

Curious George at the kid-centric culture spot, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan. Built around H.A. and Margret Rey’s coveted stories as well as the PBS TV show, tykes can explore early math, science and engineering concepts in an inquiry-based exhibit with George as their wide-eyed and always curious guide. From build-it-yourself crazy golf to performing a shadow play for a friend, to wind machines and DIY pinwheels. Admission is $11 for children and free for infants under 12 months. The Tisch Building, (212 West 83rd Street, New York, NY 10024, 212-721-1223, cmom.org)

To submit an event listing, please email newyorkfamily@manhattanmedia.com.

The Ohmies www.newyorkfamily.com

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newyorkfamily.com.

July 2011 | New York Family

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An Englishwoman In

Photo Thaddeus Harden

How British Actress And Mom Of Two, Emily Mortimer, Set Up Shop In Brooklyn While Making Memorable Family Flicks Like Cars 2

BY MARY DIPALERMO

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W

hen Emily Mortimer enters the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s science lab—her makeshift dressing room for our cover shoot—she’s sunny, warm and instantaneously apologetic.

Her previous appointment, an audition for a part she’d be thrilled to nab, ran late. The Pink Panther star—who played Steve Martin’s love interest in the recent renditions—effortlessly transitions from try-out to chit-chat as I pepper her with eager questions about her most recent projects (Cars 2) and what’s to come (Hugo Cabret). And with no available mirrors and occasional foot traffic outside the unscreened windows, Mortimer remains unfazed. She’s calm and collected and trusts the people around her. Such is life for the busy actress and Boerum Hill mother of two to Sam, age 7, and May Rose, 15 months.

Just as the gardens are beginning to wake to the season, we discuss city life and the many surprises of motherhood.

How did you get your start in acting?

I went to Oxford University and acted there, but I always did it. I would act out performances on the stairs and make my mom and dad watch it. I would pretend to be this TV chef we have in England named Delia Smith. She is this very boring, middle-aged woman who was deeply Christian and extremely unexciting, but I was obsessed with her, too. So I’d have my mom and dad watch me for hours as I poured bits of sugar into a cup pretending I was her. And I always did plays at Oxford, which was really the only thing I ever got up in the morning for.

Tell me about your childhood.

I was just very shy naturally, so I lived this lone existence in the countryside. I got quite an education being addicted to television. Five channels, three when I was young. I watched films endlessly— lots of 1930’s black and white comedies. I watched things like Adam’s Rib and Woman of the Year and these Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy films. I watched everything, really, and that’s sort of what got me interested in the idea of show business.

Is that where the dream of acting began?

I didn’t dream so much of acting as I did of performing. Some world I could escape into where I wasn’t shy and I could have groups of friends. The backstage air kisses and the camaraderie of it all! I also fancied being Debbie Harry and dancing around singing into a hairbrush—kitschy and show-biz.

What brought you to the United States?

Love. I met my husband, Alessandro Nivola, on a film in London in 1999. It was Love’s Labour’s Lost, the Kenneth Branagh version of the Shakespeare play, which he did as a musical. I had about three lines; I was one of the ladies in waiting. My husband had one of the main parts. I don’t think either of us thought it was going to be anything more than a set romance - it was physically impossible. But it became clear, as filming was drawing to an end, that we couldn’t bear to be apart, and we haven’t really been apart ever since.

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How did you settle on Brooklyn?

Sort of by mistake. I had a meeting with a director. And I was campaigning to get to New York, because I felt that was at least halfway home. When I got here I realized I’d probably spent about three weekends here in my entire life. I still don’t understand where anything is. Someone will say “the Meatpacking District” or “the Garment District” or whatever and I’ll think I don’t know where any of that fits together. I feel like I venture into Manhattan to go to the theatre or to go to a restaurant, or to go to Soho. I know where Soho is, but that’s about it.

Would you say Brooklyn feels like home now?

Well England will never stop feeling like home, but Brooklyn feels like home, too. My kids are here and are very happy here and we have friends here. All our close friends live in Brooklyn. My husband’s brother is a fantastic painter and he lives in Bushwick. There’s a little flat of us here.

What do like about living in Brooklyn? What are some of your favorite spots to take the kids?

Going to Brighton Beach. There are not enough places in America where there are restaurants on the sea and there, you can actually sit on the boardwalk, have a delicious Russian meal, drink vodka and the kids can play. It’s a little enclave where I speak Russian and everyone answers me back in English.

I also love coming [to the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens] and to Prospect Park. I like the boardwalk in Brooklyn Heights, too. It’s great having a view of Manhattan. That’s what I like about living in Brooklyn, you get to see Manhattan. Sometimes we walk up to the River Café and that area there near Dumbo, and we get a water taxi into Manhattan.

I like my neighborhood, because it’s very neighborhood-y.

There are delicious restaurants and lots of good shops—one can easily part with hard-earned cash. The only downside is that there are too many people who look like us. There are moments when you look around and everybody looks like you. Sort of fairly artistic, with their two kids, and the strollers, pushing them through these brownstones and leafy streets.

Tell me more about your children.

Sam is sweet, bright, and funny. He’s basically the best company I know! He can be infuriating, as many seven-year-olds can be, but much less infuriating than I can be, I’m sure. I think he’s going to make a great husband one day.

My daughter, May, is sort of an unknown quantity— quite a powerful little thing. But very game and funny, as well, and sweet. I quite enjoy that. For the first year she hardly cracked a smile and my friends used to joke that she wouldn’t have to have Botox!

What’s upcoming for you?

I have Hugo Cabret coming out in November, which is a Martin Scorsese film based on a graphic novel written by Brian Selznick. It’s a wonderful book that children of my kids’ age love. It’s set in a railway station in Paris in 1930. It’s July 2011 | New York Family

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about a little orphan boy who winds clocks, but it’s also about the beginnings of cinema.

Then Cars 2—it’s this international, grand prix spy movie. It’s incredibly exciting and beautiful to look at. Michael Caine and I are the two British spy cars. Michael Caine is the classy, older, wiser spy; and I’m the very technically savvy, but completely inexperienced and young rookie spy car—Holley Shiftwell is my name.

The other thing is My Idiot Brother, which is a small, independent comedy but with great actors: Paul Rudd, Zooey Deschanel, Elizabeth Banks and myself. We all play grown-up siblings in New York and Paul plays our idiot brother who screws up our lives, but in the end makes them better.

Do you have a favorite role to date?

The role I’m most grateful for was in Lovely and Amazing. It was a big deal because it was the first time anybody [Nicole Holofcencer] had cast me as an American in a film.

There was no gap between me and the character. I was as vulnerable and exposed and silly and adorable and brave and as stupid as the character I was playing. For the first time I understood what it felt like to really be amongst exciting filmmakers and people who were making that kind of movie. It felt like a noble profession. I felt like - Oh, this is why I’m here.

What have been the life lessons you’ve learned?

I think the only thing one truly knows of life is that everything changes. Just when you think you’ve got the swing of something, it all changes again. It’s deceptive and confusing. I think being an actor prepares you extremely well for that, because your life is lived in a constant state of change—you can’t make plans, you don’t know what’s going on, whether or not you’ve got this job or haven’t, and then you can get the job and the money gets lost and you don’t have it. Life can go in all different directions.

Who has been the most influential person to you in your career?

In a funny way, I think my husband has. I think he’s taught

Emily Mortimer gets into gear as Holley Shiftwell

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me how to take myself more seriously. He taught me to accept that this is what I do, and that’s why I want to do it as well as I can and there should be no shame in that.

We both understand each other’s neuroses and he can help me with my auditions and I can help him with his. We can talk a lot about our jobs. We have exactly the same interests. I don’t know what it would be like to be married to someone who isn’t an actor, because I haven’t tried it, but it seems to be a good thing for us, anyway.

How do you maintain work-life balance?

It’s a very forgiving job. You can bring your kids to work, and they can sit in your trailer. In some ways, it’s a really good job for mothers. The people that employ you understand your gypsy lifestyle, traveling with your entire family. And there are periods of unemployment, which means you have long periods where you can be totally engaged and present, and can be picking them up from school everyday. There’s something to be said for the weird, self-employed nature of our job. But as Sam’s getting a little bit older, it becomes harder to know exactly how to juggle it. It’s sort of the big unknown, these next few years. We’ll work it out, we always do.

Does your son have a favorite movie of yours?

I would say Cars 2. He and I went to Pixar a month or so ago, out in San Francisco. My car in the movie is very technical and gadget-obsessed. Sam just sat there open-mouthed. At one point, I pop out these wings and start to fly, and he looked at me and said, “Mom! You’re amazing!” I took all the credit and lapped up all his pride and awe. He’s never been quite so proud of me before—that was a fantastic moment.

What have been the biggest surprises to you about parenthood?

I get such a kick out of the unfolding of [Sam and May Rose]. I was expecting the pleasure to come from seeing myself in them, and I was afraid I wasn’t going to get much out of that because I’m sort of down on myself. I thought the least like me, the better. Then I realized it has nothing to do with that. People arrive and they already are who they are; they have much less to do with you. It’s just about watching and finding out who they are. I really feel that both of them might as well have been brought by storks. They came into the world as complete beings. I get so much more pleasure out of it, than I would have if I had been somehow responsible for forming them. I’m totally biased, obviously, but to me, they’re both really incredible people. It’s a trip getting to know them.

Mary DiPalermo, mom to an elementary-, a middle-, and a high-schooler, writes and shares her special parenting perspective on New York Family's blog "Parenting in Progress." She lives on the Upper West Side.

www.newyorkfamily.com

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SHOWS AVENUE

defined by quality and design

Antiques, Art & Design at the Armory

Mahogany and bird’s eye maple dining table with two leaves on chrome base by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals, American 1960’s from Lobel Modern of New York City.

SAVE THE DATE! September 21, 2011 Private VIP Preview

September 22-25, 2011 Open to the Public

Park Avenue Armory | 643 Park Avenue at 67th Street | New York City For details, show information and tickets, please visit avenueshows.com or call 646.442.1627

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NYF Full Camp 7-11_NYF_Full_Camp_7-11 6/8/11 10:27 AM Page 1

namic ction • Dy ru t s In rt s • Expe ss Facilitie la C d rl o W

Curriculum

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THE ULTIMATE

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15 The

g u i d e : c u lT u r e

Ready, Set,

EXPlORE!

CITY EXPERIENCES

TO SHARE WITH

YOUR CHIlD

BY MelaNie Dostis aND elora tocci

Last Licks

Discovering a new treat is always sweet—especially when frozen. And New York is home to some of the most delicious (and unique) ice cold eateries! In business for over 60 years now, lick your way through real-fruit flavors at the Lemon Ice King Of Corona. Or mix and match your sundae sweetness at 16 Handles with over 16 flavors of frozen yogurt, like Angel Food Cake, and 40 toppings. Get a spoonful of Boston from the fabulous (and creative) duo, Emack & Bolio’s—we can’t get enough of their berry-licious Deep Purple Cow. For those living on the edge, test out exotic flavors like Red Bean at The Chinatown Ice Cream Factory or opt for gelato on a DIY stick, the ingenious creation of Popbar. If you’re on the go, just listen for the jingle of Van Leeuwen, a revamped postal service truck that serves up the yummiest gourmet ice cream in organic cones! Also giving Mr. Softee a run for his money is The Big Gay Ice Cream Truck. This on-the-go creamery (with a permanent East Village shop) coats their treats in everything from wasabi pea dust to sea salt. Finish your extensive taste-testing with a scoop of Brooklyn-based Blue Marble.

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A MuseuM Of One’s Own Lift the lid off of the city’s melting pot and encourage kids to embrace New York’s eclectic mix of cultures. To trace the history of one of the world’s oldest religions, take advantage of The Jewish Museum’s music and art workshops, children’s exhibitions and special family days. The Scandinavia House on Park Avenue presents a comprehensive look at Nordic culture through storybook installations at its Heimbold Family Children’s Center. Don’t miss out on The National Museum of the American Indian’s reading programs and interactive educational experiences to satisfy a younger generation’s curiosity. And even if your kids clamor for a trip to Chinatown every other weekend, Centre Street’s Museum of Chinese in America uses games and hands-on activities (like its current puzzle program) to help New Yorkers delve beyond the ethnic neighborhood into the heart of Chinese life. El Museo del Barrio offers a variety of bilingual programs, including conversations with Latino artists, to explore and celebrate Hispanic history and culture, and The Studio Museum in Harlem features artistic work and ideas of African descent.

Diner-ville Throw in the dish towel and satisfy every family member’s taste buds with a trip to one of the city’s classic diners. For families partial to ethnic eats, Jackson Diner in Jackson Heights serves up Indian cuisine from every part of the country. For a more traditional (yet unconventional) diner experience, Times Square’s Ellen’s Stardust Diner brings mealtime back to 1950s America. Nostalgic décor, a singing wait staff and variety shows will give families a glimpse of life à la “Happy Days” alongside its delicacies from then and now. Fast forward a few decades (the 80s to be exact) and arrive at Big Daddy’s in Gramercy and on the Upper East and West Sides. While you wait to dive into classic burgers, shakes and breakfast foods, mull over memories that the kitschy wall memorabilia brings back. For a more contemporary NYC dining experience, stop by your nearest Shake Shack for a burger, hot dog or constantly revolving flavors of frozen custard. Adults can even refresh with beer or wine after they’ve ordered shakes for the kids. For a kid-friendly brunch, EJ’s Luncheonette www.newyorkfamily.com

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covers all the bases, from fluffy pancakes to dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets.

sky HigH Admire New York from one of the city’s most breathtaking vantage points: the sky. Switch up your normal fresh air plans and head to the High Line, a public park situated over the West Side on an elevated rail structure. The park recently doubled in size, adding space for rotating food trucks, public art and family events.

If you’re interested strictly in marveling at the view, consider a Liberty Helicopter Tour. Tours range from 12-20 minutes and give inspiring views of city landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Empire State Building and the USS Intrepid. For a classic skyline experience, the 86th and 102nd floors of the Empire State Building boast panoramic views, as does the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center. A walk along the iconic Brooklyn Bridge over the East River offers a stunning scene for even the most seasoned New Yorkers. If nostalgia’s your thrill, ride to the top of Coney Island’s Wonder Wheel—a chance for older kids and adults to connect with (and reflect on) an important piece of Brooklyn history.

wAter wOrks Make waves with the water activities available on the city’s surrounding rivers.

Circle Line Tours has options for families that want to relax for a couple of hours on the blue part of the map. From the threehour Full-Island Cruise to the 75-minute Liberty Cruise, all age ranges (and attention spans) will be pleased. If your crew is not the boatin’ type, New York Water Taxi leaves from Pier 17 at the South Street Seaport and offers landmark tours, fall foliage cruises and special holiday tours for individuals and families. For a more active approach to water fun, sign up for sailing lessons at Chelsea Piers. The Offshore Sailing School offers private family courses that range from two hours to five days.

Families looking for a more tame Captain experience can head to the Downtown Boathouse on a weekend and borrow kayaks and life vests for free! Meanwhile, the

Central Park Boathouse rents rowboats daily for families looking to explore the park with a lake view.

in BlOOM Foster a love of nature in your bornand-bred city kid with a walk (or short subway ride) to stunning scenery. The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden at the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx features a Boulder Maze, touch tank and indoor laboratory for interactive exploration. If that’s not hands-on enough, the Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden encourages groups to dig up the dirt and offers children their own garden plots to tend.

If you’re closer to Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden offers similar opportunities to play, learn and plant, and the Discovery Garden sponsors workshops and classes for a broad age range. The Queens Botanical Garden serves the city with more than 20 unique gardens, including a Children’s Garden program. Off the beaten path, Wave Hill’s blend of nature and awesome art exhibits are broken down into education sessions and guided tours designed just for youngsters. And of course, Central Park offers New Yorkers a chance to stop, smell, touch and gawk at the blooms in its color-bathed rose garden, as well as a flower-and-fountain-dotted Conservatory.

winter wOnDerlAnD Embrace the wonder that is a New York winter! No city childhood is complete without witnessing the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting. But as soon as the switch has been thrown, don’t forget to scope out the American Museum of Natural History’s Origami Holiday Tree, July 2011 | New York Family

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decorated with more than 500 themed creations. For live entertainment (and infinite high kicks), the classic Radio City Christmas Spectacular has been revamped for the 2011 season.

The window displays at Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barney’s and Lord and Taylor’s are also must-sees—but if the lines are long, peer in the windows of just about any store (especially tiny boutiques) for holiday cheer. For more low-key family fun, Bryant Park’s Citi Pond offers ice skating, shows, events and restaurants. If tourist attractions become too overwhelming, glide uptown to Wollman Rink in Central Park to enjoy laid-back skating and ice hockey. Once you start to feel like you’re made of ice, warm up at City Bakery’s Hot Chocolate Festival, which features new flavors, like tropical hot chocolate, every day during the month of February.

AnimAls A-Plenty Family pets aside, you’d be surprised to find out which four-legged, longnecked and winged creatures share our island. Your child’s cutest friends are gathered at the Art Farm in the City; where they can pet bunnies, chinchillas and twitchy-nosed guinea pigs. If you want a taste of history, check out the Queens County Farm, a wonderful example of working agriculture, which dates back to 1697. Or head on over to the Queens Zoo, complete with a farm, aviary, and animals such as sea lions and lynxes. The famous Bronx Zoo houses the world’s largest urban zoo! Be sure to check out exhibits such as the “Congo Gorilla Forest” and take a spin around their bug carousel.

During your scenic stroll through Central Park, wander over to the Central Park Zoo and see what’s playing in their 4-D theater. At the Prospect Park Zoo, you can meet rock wallabies, tufted deer and prairie dogs all along their discovery trail. While in Brooklyn, learn all about the wonderful undersea world at the New York Aquarium. Make the affection permanent by adopting a new furry companion at either Bideawee or ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).

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Down to A science A seat on the Magic School Bus. Impossible. Trips to some of the city’s best and brightest science-minded institutions.

Entirely possible! The New York Hall of Science in Queens features the largest collection of hands-on science exhibits (over 450) in New York City, suitable for all ages. Techies will be in tinker-heaven in midtown’s Sony Wonder Technology Lab, a state-of-the-art technology and entertainment facility that offers free admission. Watch and marvel at the inner workings of cell phones or feel the sensations of performing open heart surgery through haptic technology. If your family suffers from gadget phobia, the American Museum of Natural History is always a safe bet. After your visit, even Ms. Frizzle would be impressed with your newfound knowledge on the human brain, ancient fossils, climate change and the solar system. If you’re looking to edge out of the city for the day, you can crawl through the touch tunnel, help perform a simulated surgery and make your own ocean water at the Liberty Science Center in New Jersey.

PArADe ArounD town Gather up the brood, fetch your camera, and don’t forget to don those comfy shoes—all year round New York morphs in and out of parade mode. Starting in the spring, soak up the Irish pride and the green décor at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. When the summer heat starts to roll in, show your swagger on Surf Avenue for Coney’s Island Mermaid Day Parade.

This artistic display keeps on going into the wee hours of the night with the Mermaid Parade Ball—parents only! In the fall, get your “Thriller” on at the largest shindig for goblins, ghouls, ghosts and other creatures at the Village’s Halloween Parade. And before you devour that scrumptious dinner; be sure to take in the annual extravaganza that is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. From larger-than-life cartoons floating down the avenue to the percussion of marching bands, it’s a tremendous way to continue your year of parades. Sprinkled throughout, be on the look out for crowdpleasing ethnic street fests – from the Chinese New Year Parade to the Puerto Rican and Israeli Day Parades.

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Life’s A BeAch There’s no great escape quite like the beach on a steamy, summer day. Brooklyn has three shorelines to offer. Brighton Beach has an ethnic feel with ocean-view restaurants whereas Coney Island boasts close to three miles of sandy expanse and a host of amusement rides and recreational activities for restless beachgoers. Manhattan Beach, deceivingly located in the BK, is often dotted with picnicking families and is sandwiched between playgrounds.

If you’re Queens-bound, Jacob Riis Park is home to an Art Deco bathhouse with nautical-themed architecture that opened in 1932 and has been recently restored.

Aspiring surfers can hang ten at Rockaway Beach, which hosts the city’s only surfing areas. Non-waveriders can enjoy fishing, swimming, and seven playgrounds for the younger crowd. Known as Bronx’s sandswept Riviera, head to Orchard Beach for your pick of 26 sports courts. The Water Taxi Beaches offer an outdoor beach lounge complete with food, flat-screen TVs, table games and bars for the adults at its South Street Seaport location, and cafes and live music at its Governor’s Island venue.

Families willing to take a short ride to the shore can head to New Jersey’s Sandy Hook for a seven-mile expanse of ocean and bay swimming, surf casting and relaxing.

TeLL Me A TALe Any day can be story day, thanks to the city’s many bookish nooks! Start off by consulting the calendars of your nearby New

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York Public Library branch for events and readings. Jumpstart your youngster’s love for reading at the Bank Street Bookstore, where they get to meet authors up close and personal. At Barnes & Noble, storytime isn’t complete without an amusing costume character visit.

Or encourage young readers to share their thoughts at the noon Q&A session on Sundays at Books of Wonder. There they can peruse through rare books such as 19th century editions of Grimm and Anderson fairytales.

On Thursdays, an enthusiastic team at the Strand Bookstore delivers a themed storytime, like Crazy Cats, followed by crafts. The chic shop McNally Jackson Books can be found crawling with babies buzzing for stories on Fridays. On Saturdays, kids ages 3-7 can hear readings of under-the-radar child-friendly stories read by master storyteller, Yvonne Brooks.

The world of toys, FAO Schwarz holds weekday storytimes as well.

suBurBs in The ciTy You don’t have to live in the ‘burbs to bring the ‘burbs to you! Despite the concrete, the city offers a slew of recreational sports programs—from soccer to basketball—all manned by incredible parent volunteers. Kick it with West Side Soccer or Downtown Little League, which provides co-ed baseball, softball, and a Challenger Division for children with special needs. Or if you’re looking for something completely different, the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, along with the NFL, sponsors its own league of flag football. And just like in the suburbs, there’s loads of fun to be had by moms. You can never have too many friends and babybites is the hotspot for socializing (and all-things motherhood!). For opinions on parenting issues, hit up Park Slope Parents--a community of parents that swap information. Have an infant and live below Canal? Meet up with the Hudson River Mother’s Group for toddler talk. Lastly, through their superb events, Bowery Babes is dedicated to making downtown Manhattan a perfect place for raising children.

Living free On a budget? In the city that never

sleeps, it’s surprisingly easy to find fun that won’t leave a dent in your wallet. The New York Public Library hosts over 25,000 free public programs throughout their locations. Tots can master computer skills through classes such as ‘Kid Tech Time,’ or explore artistic expression in works from ‘Celebrating 100 Years.’ If you feel the need for a change of scenery, head on over to one of NYC’s praised museums with free admission. Among our favorites: Children’s Museum of the Arts, free for kids from 4-6pm, the American Folk Art Museum, free on Fridays from 5:30-7:30pm, and the MoMA, free on Friday evenings. There’s also free Target programming at culture hubs like The Brooklyn Museum and The New Museum. Presenting musicians like Yo-Yo Ma and comedians such as Jim Gaffigan, the City Parks Foundation provides a deluge of free arts, sports, and educational programs throughout the boroughs. For those youngsters craving something more active, take a swing on the baseball field, test out your moves in a skate park, or swim in an indoor pool, all for free at one of the many spaces set up by the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation.

curTAin cALL There’s something for everyone in NYC’s legendary league of kid-friendly theaters. If the family is craving timeless classics like Wicked, Mary Poppins or The Lion King then head on down to Broadway.

For those wanting a bit more pizzazz, tune into musicals such as A Christmas Carol at Literally Alive. Your child will be enchanted by the originality at the Vital Children’s Theater with hits such as Pinkalicious, The Musical. At the New Victory Theater, a cozy 499-seat landmark theater, they manage to pull off the cutting edge with enough razzle-dazzle to go around. After watching the mischief in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer or tapping your toes to Untapped!, make sure to find out about their one-ofa-kind family workshops. Experience a world of marionettes and hand puppets at Puppetworks—in Brooklyn all year round and Manhattan twice yearly. There you can encounter all the favorite “Oz” characters as they discover “there’s no place like home” or marvel at a classic with a twist in Little Red Riding Hood. If you’re frolicking in Central Park, stop by the Swedish Cottage for more puppetry fun. www.newyorkfamily.com

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THE

GUIDE:PARENTING

PERSPECTIVES in PARENTING From The Reality Of Adoption (So Complicated, So Worth It) To The Truth About Marriage (Most Spouses Actually Like Each Other), A Round-Up Of Our Favorite Stories Over The Past Year September 2010 O Magazine’s Writer-At-Large, Lisa Kogan, on imperfectly perfect city parenting.

What’s being a single mother in New York really like?

Nature isn’t stupid. Two people getting together to make a third person and take care of them is a pretty good plan.

I find that the dirty little secret of being a single parent is that you don’t have to answer to anybody—you don’t have to explain why you put her in those clothes or why she can’t have an ice cream cone 26 minutes before dinner. And New York City is a double-edged sword. There are so many amazing things going on; there’s always something to do with your kid. But things move fast here, things are tough here, and very aggressive. And Manhattan comes with its own set of challenges; you aren’t really a parent until you can say the wheel has come off your stroller in the middle of rush hour on Lexington Avenue.

October 2010 Fashion photographer and dad of two, Nigel Barker, focuses on beauty from the inside out.

Many of our readers are busy city moms. Can you give one piece of wisdom from your book [Beauty Equation] that speaks to moms in general?

One of the chapters in this book is "Compassion." And the reason that it’s in there is that through the humanitari-

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an things that I’ve done in my life, I’ve grown in confidence, grown in strength, grown in direction. And I think that for any mom, if you can do anything outside your home that’s charitable, whether it’s working at a soup kitchen once a week for two hours or helping in the community, you feel good about that, and it’s an incredible sign for their children to see their mothers working in the community, and knowing their mother is a beautiful woman, as I do mine.

It was through my mother’s behavior that I grew to be the man I am today. And that’s something to feel beautiful about, something to feel strong about, and something to feel proud about. It’s about realizing who we are and what we have.

November 2010 Actress Julianne Moore on the harmonic overlap between the professional and the parental.

In your experience, is there anything about being an actress that has made you a better parent?

Well it’s interesting; somebody recently asked me what have I learned through acting and what I have learned in films, and I said, it’s really what you learn in your life that adds to what you do in your work. You know, I think everything you do, including being a parent, all the life experiences you accumulate, all the relationships you have—that makes you a better and deeper actor. www.newyorkfamily.com

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December 2010 The New York Times ‘Motherlode’ Blogger Lisa Belkin weighs in on what it means to have everything.

Over the years, has your opinion of the phrase “having it all” changed?

I no longer think that “all” means to be the highest, wealthiest, most famous or most powerful. I think “all” means a feeling of basic satisfaction and sanity.

You’re never going to have a hundred percent of all the factors for your life; it’s mathematically impossible. So, yes, I’ve changed my view of what having it all is because I’ve changed the definition of what “all” is.

January 2011 Emmy-winning talk show co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck on answering her kids’ (she has three) largerthan-life queries.

What’s the hardest question you’ve had to answer from your kids so far?

My daughter said to me, “Mommy, if God is so big, how is he in my heart?” Of course these questions come at 8:05 at night, when I am nearly asleep myself. That bedtime talk is so precious, but this was one time that I thought, “I don’t know if I am capable of answering that in a way that it needs to be answered right now.”…I said God has the ability to be both big and small and that no place is too small and no place is too big. Seemed to satisfy her—she rolled over and went to sleep.

February 2011 The New York Times ‘Well’ Blogger Tara Parker-Pope says that marriage isn’t what it used to be—and that it’s for the better.

You say that couples today are asking far more from our marriages than ever before. What do you mean by that?

One hundred years ago, marriage was a social contract and an economic contact. With the current model of marriage, couples really are partners; they are both working in the home and they are both working outside the home. Even when you have one partner that does stay home and doesn’t earn money, you still have a lot of sharing. So the new model of marriage is that we’re spending a lot more time with the person that we marry, so we have higher expectations for the relationship. We want to be with somebody we like to be with; men and women are both looking for a partner to make life more interesting.

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Fashion designer Lela Rose on the growing joys (and temporary traumas) of motherhood.

Did you always know that you wanted to be a mom?

I remember when I got pregnant with Grey, I was traumatized.

When it’s the first time you’re pregnant, there’s a certain group of people who love to tell you how you will never sleep again, how life as you know it is over. And really, life as you did know it is over, but in a good way. It’s such a joy and it always has been, it’s always been a ton of fun peppered with some tough stuff. It’s not that bad!

March 2011 Katie Brown, PBS’ domestic extraordinaire, gives the scoop on adoptive parenting.

Tell me about being an adoptive mom? What impact has the adoption experience had on your family, and on you as a parent?

It is a brutal process, but it’s all worth it in the end. You know how with birthing they say you don’t remember the pain? Same with adoption. And there’s something about my bond with Meredith that I think is wrapped up in the fact that I almost didn’t have her. There’s something about that feeling of, Oh my God, how did we luck out to find you? that is just otherworldly and so precious and so great. I feel like I have the family I was meant to have; I think you find who you are supposed to find. That’s part of the reverence that I have towards Meredith and our connection—its like, “Well, there you are!”

April 2011 ‘Scream-Free’ parenting guru Hal Edward Runkel urges parents to connect with kids by putting themselves first.

No, really.

You claim that one of the best things we as parents can do for our children is to focus more on ourselves. Can you explain?

If we don’t take care of ourselves, we end up needing our kids to care of us by behaving and by making us look good. Then they are the leaders of the family, not us. What kids need most are parents that do not need them—I know this is a jarring statement, but it’s true.

Focusing on yourself is one of the best things you can do because www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 5:19 PM

you are communicating to your kids that you don’t need them to take care of you.

But shouldn’t we insist that our children do what we, as parents, say?

So many parents think, “I should say it and they should do it.”

I always ask them, until when? How long do you want to be responsible for telling them what to do every step of the way?

When do you want them to begin to think for themselves? It’s our job to let them know the choices they don’t have—kids don’t have the choice between going to school or playing in the street—but also the choices they do have. One of the best things we can do is get to a place where there is nothing our kids can do to embarrass us. When we allow them to embarrass us we’re taking too much responsibility for them. We are not responsible for our kids; we’re responsible to them.

‘Let’s Panic About Babies’ author Alice Bradley opens up about making mama mistakes and owning them.

What do you find most challenging about motherhood?

I think there’s an illusion that you have before you’re a parent that when you become a parent you’ll automatically know what you’re doing. For me, the hardest part was encountering situations and having absolutely no idea what to do. It’s realizing you’re going to make mistakes, and you have to be okay with that. And learning to apologize to your child—I feel good about doing that, because I’m modeling what I want my child to do.

June 2011 Film mogul Spike Lee reflects on the constantly churning cog in the parenting wheel.

When you think about your journey as a father, what comes to mind?

All the stuff that you didn't want to do as a kid that your father tells you to do?

You end up telling your kids the same thing. Always works like that. You try to tell them, look I did this already, so just do it this way—but they never listen.

And they're going to end up doing the same thing with their children. It just keeps going. www.newyorkfamily.com

UltimateGuidePARENTS_Perspectives_0711.indd 41

Not every kid wants the same kind of camp, and we want happy campers!

That’s why Summer at St. Bart’s offers four options that include swim every day:

Tiny Tot’s at St. Bart’s June 6th-August 19th yearswe want 9am happy to 12:30pm Not every kid wants the same kindAgeof 3-4.5 camp, and campers! That’s why St. Bart’s is offering • Artsthatandinclude Craftsswim • Sports in our gym • Dance and Movement • Rooftop play three options every day: st St. Bart’s Day Camp June 8th June – August St Bart’s Day• Camp 6th-21August 19th Perfect for 3 1⁄2 to 8 year olds: swimming every day, sports, art or science, dance, plus a whole Age 4.5-7 years 9am to 3pm lot more on our rooftop playground!

• Arts and Crafts • Sports in our gym • ndDance and Movement • Rooftop play Island Sports Camp • June 22 – August 21st • Fun with Science • Karate • Drama • Extended day options For 7 – 13 year olds who like something a little more sporty. Start the day with science, art, yoga or drama, then jet off forCamp a day of June softball, soccer, The day19th concludes back at Island Sports 27thand–tennis.

August St. Bart’s withAge swimming instruction in our trips indooronce pool.a week/private bus 7-13 years • Special Adventure Camp June 22nd –Island August 21stlessons • Soccer •Field Sports• at Roosevelt • Tennis This camp is great for 8 – 13 year olds who aren’t crazy about sports art, science • Softball • Kickball • Ultimate Frisbee • Relay Races • Touch Footballbut• are andintomore… and a little adventure. This camp offers two (2) educational/recreation trips per week in and outside ofAdventure Manhattan. Also includes sports, 20th-August yoga, drama and a weekly art/science showcase.

CampsomeJune 19th TWO educational/recreational Summer at St. Bart’sAge also7-13 offersyears flexible•scheduling, the Breakfast Club, Lunchtrips/week and After Camp program. To register, schedule a family convenience, more and information, contact Eileen Reddy at • Arts and tour Craftsat your • Sports in our orgymreceive • Dance Movement • Yoga (212) 378-0203, reddy@stbarts.org or• visit our •website: Drama Karatewww.stbarts.org.

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6/24/11 5:20 PM

the

guide:the

oF shopping

What’s in store From Baby to tween, some of our Favorite spots to shop For Children

BY JoY Sherwood

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www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 3:43 PM

W

ith so many great places to shop, it can be overwhelming to decide where to stock up for your child. As your little one develops from infant onwards, we thought it would be helpful to highlight a few stores across the city.

1033 Lexington Avenue, 212-249-4249 352 Amsterdam Avenue, 212-362-8680 From strollers to bedding, including accessories and furniture, this baby depot can outfit your baby including their room with the latest in modern flair.

The styles of the clothes are classic and include a full layette through tween selection.

You can also find for girls a complete selection of dresses for communions, flower girls and special occasions.

Albees

Granny Made

715 Amsterdam Avenue 212-662-8902 The go-to store on the West Side for strollers, high chairs, bouncy seats and baby accessories.

467 Amsterdam Avenue 212-496-1222 With a selection of handmade sweaters for babies and children including clothing and toys from preemies to size 10.

1042 Lexington Avenue 646-370-6449 A store dedicated to tweens and the fads they love in clothing and accessories. Customizing is their specialty as well as a jewelry registry for birthday parties to Bat Mitzvahs.

Naturino & Greenstones

Planet Kids

454 Columbus Avenue, 212-580-4322 1410 Second Avenue, 212-794-0530 Madison Avenue, 212-427-1665 With multiple stores on the Upper East & West Sides this clothing store offers clothes with a European flair from newborn through size 16. You can also walk through to the adjoined Naturino children’s shoe stores.

191-193 Amsterdam Avenue, 212-362-3131 247 East 96th Street, 212-426-2040 Choose from a vast selection of furniture, nursery items, strollers, baby feeding and care products.

me.n.u

Babesta 66 West Broadway 212-608-4522 Here you will find a selection of cribs, strollers, toys and clothing for your little ones.

Berkley Girl 410 Columbus Avenue 212-877-4770 Specializing in tweens by offering hip clothes ranging from size 6 to pre-teen.

Harry’s Shoes for Kids Bonpoint 805 Madison Avenue 212-722-7720 This location houses their new concept store which displays their complete skin care line for children and adults. The clothes run from infants to toddlers with a special floor devoted to tweens and a separate shoe area for all.

Bu and the Duck 106 Franklin Street, 212-431-9226 316 East 84th Street, 212-794-0721 The owner of this store, with it’s offbeat flair, is also the designer and gets her inspiration from the past.

Bundle 128 Thompson Street, 212-982-9465 If you are looking for stylish but reasonably priced clothes for babies through size 4 including gifts, this place is for you.

2315 Broadway 212-874-2034 Find the shoe that is a perfect fit for your child with a selection of classic and comfortable shoes and sneakers.

Lester’s 1534 Second Avenue 212-734-9292 Your one-stop shopping destination from layette and toddler through tween, along with shoes, accessories—including and a full camp selection.

120 Wooster Street, 212-334-5817

www.newyorkfamily.com

JOYofSHOPPING_0711.indd 43

42 Hudson Street 212-406-3270 A selection of European and American shoes for children including accessories and toys.

State News 112 East 86th Street , 212-831-8010 The neighborhood location for school supplies, party favors, arts & crafts, cards and magazines.

Tip Top Kids Shoes 149 West 72nd Street 212-874-1004 Look no further for tip top service in fitting your child’s foot to the proper shoe.

Little BG Fifth Avenue @ 58th Street inside Bergdorf Goodman on the 7th Floor, 212-872-2851 With top designer duds for newborn through age 6, you can dress your children in mini versions of many of your favorite designers including shoes and accessories.

Torly Kids 51 Hudson Street 212-406-7440 Outfitting Tribeca kids from babies to tweens and specializing in gift baskets.

Yoya Magic Windows

Giggle

Shoofly

1186 Madison Avenue 212-289-0028

636 Hudson Street A modern approach to clothing babies and toddlers in fashionable duds.

July 2011 | New York Family

43

6/27/11 12:29 PM

the

BeSt in ClASS

Guide:ClASSeS and most importantly share quality time with parents

central Park, 212-439-6500, centralparkzoo.

and caretakers. 10 West 25th Street, appleseedsnyc.

com. (All Ages)

com. (Ages newborn to 5 years)

Art Farm in the City

Chelsea Piers

Children’s classes cover live animals, music, art,

From gymnastics to golf and ice skating to

baking and more. The adult participation class

basketball, Chelsea Piers has it all. Not only does

“Rock, Smocks and Animals” includes music,

the complex offer sports for kids and adults of

art, storytime and up-close animal encounters.

all ages, but it also recently added a hair salon,

Passion, the City Offers A

Every other week the class will pull out the paint,

Chelsea Shears, new birthday party options

glue, feathers, sand and more to create an animal

including Glamour and Dance parties, and ad-

Wealth Of extracurricular

masterpiece. The after-school club "Animal Care"

ditional drop-in programs including the popular

Offerings to Choose From

educates children about live animals and how

Rock-N-Roll. This year, the Golf Club built an Elite

to care for them. "Art, Adventures and More" is

Junior Program for advanced young golfers and

a sophisticated Art Class where children create

Skating School at Sky Rink is more popular than

masterpieces on canvas and learn various artistic

ever with classes year-round. 23rd Street & the

styles. 419 east 91st Street, 212-410-3117,

Hudson river, 212-336-6666, chelseapiers.com.

theartfarms.org. (Ages 14 months to 8 years)

(All Ages)

Mommy and Me, early childhood, afterschool,

Asphalt Green

summer camp and family arts programming. In

Children’s Museum of Manhattan

Asphalt Green’s first-class curriculum inspires, ed-

CMOM is a wonderful combination of interactive

addition to their award-winning preschool and

ucates and provides the tools to build lifetime sports

exhibits (PlayWorks™ for newborns – 4 years) and

their signature “2x2” program, they recently

skills and fitness habits, with expert instruction in

learning opportunities for newborns to kids 6 &

launched “Now We Are Three” (for the almost

soccer, flag football, gymnastics, baseball, martial

older. Enrollment offerings include a great Par-

3 years old set) and weekend family program-

arts, and swimming. Check out Summer Day Camp,

ent/Child class for 18 months – 2 years (Preschool

ming for children with special needs. 344 east

AG Elite Sports Camps and Jump Into Summer

Adventures), two Gentle Separation classes for

14th Street, 212-780-0800, 14streety.org. (Ages

Camp! 555 east 90th Street, 212-369-8890,

2-3 years (Preschool Prep or Preschool Steps) or

newborn to 18 years)

asphaltgreen.org. (Ages 4 months to 16 years)

three Drop-Off classes for 3-6 years (Art Adven-

92nd Street Y

Bronx Zoo

West 83rd Street, 212-721-1223, cmom.org.

The Bronx Zoo has great programs for kids this

(Ages 6 months to 6 years)

Whatever Your Child’s

Multi-Service venueS 14th Street Y The 14th Street Y offers a full spectrum of fitness,

92Y’s “Wonderplay” offers age-appropriate classes for children under 5, plus parent get-togethers and family activities like cooking. After-school classes, private instruction, music ensembles and dance troupes are offered for children ages 6-18.

92Y also offers kids’ fitness and sports classes like “Fitness Fusion.” This month, Creative Broadway Kids introduces little ones to jazz and tap, to help develop rhythmic coordination. 1395 lexington Avenue, 212-415-5500, 92Y.org. (Ages

tures, Science Sampler or Modern Masters). 212

summer. “Pablo Python Looks at Animals” introtextures, patterns, locomotion, and diet. In this

Church Street School for Music and Art

five-day adventure, children will go on safari to the

Church Street School for Music and Art is the

African Plains, observe butterflies in the Butterfly

only community school for the arts in downtown

Garden, ride the Bug Carousel, and have up-close

Manhattan offering music and art experiences for

encounters with animals. 2300 Southern Boule-

all ages. Programs include: Music and Movement,

vard, 718-220-5100, bronxzoo.com. (All Ages)

Visual Arts, Arts Express Preschool and Pre-K

duces children to animal sizes, shapes, colors,

Program, Afterschool Arts Academy, Private and

newborn to 18 years)

Central Park Zoo The Central Park Zoo offers family educational

Apple seeds

programming like Toddler Time Series. Little ones

Apple Seeds is an all-in-one play space featuring

can meet a variety of furry, scaly, and feathery zoo

over 100 different children’s classes per week, a chil-

animals in these interactive classes for toddlers

dren’s boutique, unique birthday parties, an award-

and their caregivers. Live animals, movement and

winning day camp, a kid-friendly café and a kid’s

musical activities, and crafts are part of the fun.

hair salon. The newest addition to the class lineup is

Youth programs also include Animal Adventures,

bookworms, a book club for kids. With books, kids

Penguin Exploration, Junior Keepers and Be

can explore faraway places, make new friends, learn

a Wildlife Photographer! Southeast corner of

74th Street Magic

44

New York Family | July 2011

CLASSGuide_0711.indd 44

Apple Seeds

Group Instrumental Lessons, Rock Band, and Weekend Drop-in Classes. 74 Warren Street, 212-571-7290, churchstreetschool.org. (Ages 16 months and up)

Citibabes The deluxe downtown family membership club offers a full array of children’s and family classes, including art, cooking, dance, language, music, yoga, sports, and science. Citibabes has some exciting new classes this year including CitiChefs,

Asphalt Green www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 1:21 PM

where chefs prepare a wide range of delectable

special needs, theater, and more. Sports classes,

wine for the big kids. 161 Hudson Street, 212-

dishes that are healthy and fun to make all while

including yoga, karate and swimming, are also

226-0345, moomah.com.

learning about measurements. 52 Mercer Street,

offered. Basketball courts are available for teams

3rd Floor, 212-334-5440, citibabes.com. (Ages 3

and pick-up games. 334 Amsterdam Avenue,

months to 10 years)

646-505-4444, jccmanhattan.org. (Ages newborn

Musical Kids International

to 18 years)

Children engage in language immersion activities through music, art, dance, puppets and games

Columbus Gym

using the “I’m Bilingual” approach, designed by

Columbus Gym’s Tiny Tot Fitness Program

Kids at Work

concentrates on balance, coordination, and fine

Kids at Work offers an all drop-in schedule of

motor skills along with sports, props, and circle

Mommy-and-me classes in music, movement

time. Mini gym/super gym classes provide an intro-

and sensory art. PlayGroups and Camp programs

duction to basic skills using all pieces of apparatus

as well as Open Play are also offered in Chelsea

(vault, balance beam, bars, floor, and trampoline).

and the West Village. Classes focus on process-

606 Columbus Avenue, 212-721-0090,

oriented and age-appropriate activities and

columbusgymnyc.com. (Ages 12 months to 12 years)

include Mess It Up—a sensory-based art and science class for active, curious children. 242 West

Discovery Programs

27th Street, #4A, 212-488-8800, kidsatworknyc.

Discovery Programs offers a wide range of innovative

com. (Ages newborn to 4 years)

and arts-based classes that inspire, educate and nurinclude Almost On My Own, On My Own, Practically

Kidville operates upscale facilities, catering to

Preschool and Summer Camp. 251 West 100th

young children and their families. In addition

Street, 212-749-8717, discoveryprograms.com.

to offering developmental classes, including

(Ages newborn to tween)

Little Maestros, Run Wiggle Paint & Giggle, My Big Messy Art Class, Kidville Sports and Kidville University (Kidville’s Pre-School Alternative Program), Kidville also features an indoor playspace, a retail boutique, the Kidville Salon and birthday

tan. Choose from: Play & Learn--Gymboree’s most

parties. Various locations in Manhattan, 212-772-

popular class! Grown-ups and little ones work to

8435, kidville.com. (Ages newborn to 5 years)

encourage development through play. Art, Music, Sports--Drop-off classes that inspire imagination school alternative. Develop social and intellectual skills. Various locations in Manhattan, 877-496-5327,

Kids can take classes in different genres of dance,

gymboreeclasses.com. (Ages newborn to 5 years)

pursue their love for the stage in musical theater

early childhood enrichment and movement classes. Gymtime’s premiere class offerings include Art, Music, Cooking, Educational-Movement, Gymnastics, Tae Kwon Do, and much more! The beautifully renovated facility has a new upstairs filtration system, Energy Efficient Lighting, Allergen Free Carpeting, Green Cleaning Products, and more. 1520 York Avenue, 212-861-7732, gymtime.

The JCC in Manhattan The JCC’s menu of activities is full of classes in

Photo Scott McDermott

art, dance, cooking, chess, computers, science,

Chelsea Piers www.newyorkfamily.com

CLASSGuide_0711.indd 45

New York Kids Club The New York Kids Club, now in its tenth season, is New York’s premier children enrichment

special events! Children enjoy a variety of exciting enrichment classes including gymnastics, ballet, cooking, martial arts, preschool musical, rock climbing, art, music, and sports time. Various locations in Manhattan, 347-706-4700, nykidsclub. com. (Ages 6 months to 12 years)

Poppyseed Pre-Nursery Offers classes for children in arts and crafts, music, singing and dancing. They also feature a “Mommy and me” program and nursery school.

West End Avenue at 81st Street, 212-877-7614.

(Ages 1 to 3 years)

Reebok Sports Club/NY and The Sports Club/LA

art known as Capoeira. Kids can get a taste of

“For Kids Only” also offers enrichment programs

everything MMAC has to offer in their performing

for both members and non-members. Created

arts intensive during the month of July. 248 West

with a developmental approach to learning,

60th Street, 212-787-1178, manhattanmovement.

parents can choose from: Summer and Fall Ten-

com. (Ages 6 weeks to teens)

nis, Just For Me 2’s Separation Program, and Fall Mighty Muscles (at The Sports Club/LA-UES), and

5,000 square-foot Gymnastics Center, HEPA air

net. (Ages 6 months to 12 years)

months to 10 years)

ment and fitness, and the Afro-Brazilian martial

gram. MMAC also offers dance, music, art, move-

Gymtime Rhythm & Glues offers best-in-class

Avenue, 212-996-5898, musicalkids.net. (Ages 6

include participation of a parent or caregiver. 424

classes, or join the circus in their Circus Arts pro-

Gymtime Rhythm & Glues

languages are available, as well. 1296 Lexington

Classes meet two to three times a week and

Manhattan Movement & Arts Center

& healthy living. School Skills/Bubble Camp--Pre-

Preschool Alternative program. French and other

classes, day camps, birthday celebrations, and

Kidville

Classes offered at six sites throughout Manhat-

may also opt to attend MKI’s unique Immersion

center renowned for creative and innovative kids

ture children of all ages. Early Childhood Programs

Gymboree Play & Music

award-winning educator Yolanda Borrás. Toddlers

Moomah

Outdoor Summer Camp, Summer Tennis Camp,

Moomah is a beautifully designed cafe in Tribeca,

Fall Zumba, and Fall After School Sports (at

serving up wholesome, healthy and delicious food

Reebok Sports Club/NY). Reebok Sports Club/NY:

for adults and kids alike. Drop-in art projects

160 Columbus Avenue, 212-362-6800; The Sports

are always available and carefully designed by

Club/LA: 330 East 61st Street, 212-355-5100,

local artists and educators. Imaginative classes

thesportsclubla.com. (Ages 6 months to 12 years)

abound, from a music class featuring a song written about your child to animation to adult craft

74th St. MAGIC

evenings. There’s even Counter Culture coffee and

Offers engaging classes in music, art, gymnastics,

CitiBabes

Jodi's Gym July 2011 | New York Family

45

6/24/11 1:21 PM

cooking, science and preschool alternatives. Be sure to check out Busy Bee Time, a unique “on my own” class that gives children the opportunity to explore a variety of activities as part of first-time separation. Fall semester begins September

a café and retail boutique. 329 Columbus Avenue,

The Craft Studio Exciting seasonal workshops and drop-in painting sessions accommodate both the flexible and those pressed for time. For the walk-in painting,

212.362.0350, makemeaning.com. (All Ages)

Metropolitan Moms This culture-themed social group for moms

children choose a piece of plaster, ceramic,

and kids takes part in regular private museum

com. (Ages 6 months to early teens)

terra-cotta, canvas, or wood on which to paint

tours, gallery walks, architectural and historical

their own masterpiece. Each month also offers a

neighborhood walks, artist studio visits, culinary

Two By Two Preschool

special seasonal walk-in like real pumpkins, herb

excursions and more—all with their little ones in

gardens, etc. 1657 third Avenue, 212-831-6626,

tow! Activities are available for moms of babies,

craftstudionyc.com. (Ages 3 years and up)

toddlers and school-aged kids. 212-206-7272,

14. 510 East 74th Street, 212-737-2989, 74magic.

Two By Two Preschool offers mommy and me, infant, toddler, preschool, prekindergarten, kindergarten, and afterschool programs.

Incorporating Montessori, Reggio Emilia, creative curriculum and high scope philosophies, Two By Two strives to achieve preschool, dramatic arts and academic enrichment for students. 441 Grand Street, Brooklyn, 718-812-1910, 2by2preschool. net. (Ages 6 weeks to 14 years)

YMCA Today, there are 19 YMCA branches throughout the five boroughs. A strong focus of the centers is on youth, swimming, karate, music, art, dance and various sports lessons are offered at each branch.

For YMCA locations and class listings, visit the YMCA of Greater New York website. Various locations in Manhattan, 212-630-9600, ymcanyc.org.

(Ages 6 months and up)

ArtS & CrAftS ArtKids Children can visit over 25 different museums and galleries in New York City for interactive, fun and educational art tours. Book private family tours, group tours, book club tours, vacation tours, birthday tours and special thematic tours. 646-7859759, artmuseny.com. (Ages 3.5 to 12 years)

Children’s Museum of the Arts

metropolitanmoms.com. (Ages newborn to adult)

Hi Art! Now in its fifteenth year, the city’s most exhilarat-

Scribble Press

ing arts immersion offers some of the snazziest

At this “make your own book” store, kids can

classes on the planet for kids of all ages! From

write and illustrate their own books and col-

the renowned Opera ‘N Art -alternating hands-on

laborate on calendars, crafts and games. Like

art + opera + museum and gallery visits for kids as

Glee? Then you’ll love Scribble Press’s brand

little as 2, to the most incredible bigger kids pro-

new songwriting class. Budding music stars will

grams: Manga, Madly Mixed Mixed Media, Paint

create and record their own song and explore the

with Ellen Berkenblit, and more! 227 West 29th

power of music to tell a story. Have a blast using

Street, Studio 4r, 212-209-1552, hiartkids.com.

classic rock and pop songs to learn about rhythm

(Ages 17 months to 14 years)

and rhyme. 1624 first Avenue, 212-288-2928, scribblepress.com.

Kids at Art Kids at Art focuses on the basics of visual arts, with age-appropriate art projects for ages 2-11.

Classes are limited in size so that each child

Chef Rob Endelman offers cooking classes in the

receives individual attention. They now offer a

comfort of your own home with his private one-

summer-camp workshop for ages 4+. Or create

on-one and group lessons for children 6 years and

your own class for 5-10 children, one time or once

older. 163 Amsterdam Avenue, #318, 917-704-

a week! Kids at Art offers fantastically creative

9056, cookwithclass.net. (Ages 6 years and up)

birthday parties too. 431 East 73rd Street (at Little Shop of Crafts), 212-410-9780,

Taste Buds

kidsatartnyc.com. (Ages 2 to 11 years)

With creative and unique cooking classes for kids and families, Taste Buds has something for

Loop of the Loom Artistic growth is encouraged through the creation of various handmade crafts such as weaving, fashion sewing, dying, and felting from natural fiber. At

Hands-on art and music classes are offered

Loop of the Loom boys and girls experience, learn

to preschoolers. Older children learn about

and grow as fiber artists! This weaving studio

animation, Japanese art, theatre and fine art

teaches children the art of Saori, a type of weaving

techniques. 182 Lafayette Street, 212-274-0986,

that emphasizes free expression and results in

cmany.org. (Ages 10 months to 12 years)

one-of-a-kind pieces. 227 East 87th Street, 212722-2686, loopoftheloom.com. (Ages 5 and up)

Color Me Mine

CookinG Cook With Class

everyone. Moms call it, “an absolute blast” for their kids! Don’t miss their semester and holiday classes, summer camps and birthday parties - each event is a unique lip-smacking culinary adventure. 109 West 27th Street, 212-242-2248, tastebudscook.com.

(Ages 2 to 16 years)

Home Cooking New York Class offerings: Teens Cooking Camp, French BistroF, Fresh Pasta Workshop, The Sweet Basics, Thai Favorites, Farmers’ Market Cooking, How

Make Meaning

13 years), children can learn how pottery works

Make Meaning is a first of its kind destination for fun

and use colors to paint pottery in one of many

with creativity for kids and adults! Featuring six dif-

summer classes at Color Me Mine Tribeca studio.

ferent creative Experiences (Glass, Candles, Paper,

92 reade Street, 212-374-1710,

Ceramics, Soap, and Jewelry), guests of all ages

tribeca.colormemine.com. (Ages 3 to 13 years)

can get busy with a myriad of interactive, hands-on

The Institute of Culinary Education

activities. Make Meaning also offers private parties,

Offers classes in French pastry, one-pot family

East Side Tae Kwon Do

46

Karma Kids

New York Family | July 2011

CLASSGuide_0711.indd 46

Photo Sarah Herrington

From kindergarten through 8th grade (ages 3 to

to Cook Fish, and cooking birthday parties for all ages. 236 West 26th Street, 917-803-6857, homecookingny.com (Ages 8 and up)

Make Meaning www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 1:21 PM

Come join the fun at 74th St. MAGIC MAGIC Classes

Energy-packed classes in music, art, gymnastics, cooking, science and preschool alternatives.

Summer Days Camp Summer Days Camp for children with only a 2 week minimum required...half day and full day options available.

Mondays at MAGIC

MAGIC Birthday Parties Fun and Affordable...

Let us help you create an unforgettable, special day!

Join us for a dizzying array of special events!

Under the red canopy at 510 East 74th Street (off York Avenue) NYC 212.737.2989 www.74magic.com

meals, lunch box meals from around the globe,

dance and the culture of Latin America and Spain.

family sushi for parents and teens, pizza-making,

Students receive excellent instruction, grounding

cake-decorating, cupcakes and Brazilian and Thai

in primary techniques, and specialized exposure

cooking. 50 West 23rd Street, 1-800-522-4610,

to this rich cross-section of dance traditions. 167

rec.iceculinary.com. (Ages 10 years and up)

West 89th Street, 212-362-6710, ballethispanico.

DAnce Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

org. (Ages 2.5 years to adult)

Joffrey Ballet School

Two-year-olds will love the Ailey Extension’s Tiny

The Children’s Division offers classes in creative

Steps creative movement program while teens

movement (ages 3-4), pre-ballet (ages 5-7)

can enjoy Teen Extension, high energy classes in

and ballet or intermediate ballet (ages 7-15),

Ballet, Hip-Hop, Jazz and Samba/Afro-Brazilian.

alongside street hip hop, jazz, jazz hip hop fusion,

All levels welcome. Weekly classes taught in a

& musical theater for kids. 434 Avenue of the

“no-pressure” environment allows students to

Americas, 212-254-8520, joffreyballetschool.

gain confidence in their dancing abilities and in

com. (Ages 3 years and up)

themselves. 405 West 55th Street, 212-405-9500, aileyextension.com. (Ages 3 to 17 years)

The School at Steps The School at Steps offers a diversified yearround dance program. The Adventures in Dance summer program introduces body coordination and rhythmic awareness, opening a path to each student’s creativity and imagination. Twice each week students take a Pre-Dance and a Pre-Tap class linked with a supervised snack break. These classes are a part of the Little Steps Young Dancer Program. Summer 2011 sessions run through mid-August. 2121 Broadway, 4th Floor, 212-8743678, stepsnyc.com/school. (Ages 2 to 18 years)

This newly opened dance school offers classes

eDucATiOnAl AnD culTurAl enrichmenT American Museum of Natural History

Lower East Side Dance Academy in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, Zumba and more in a

Educational, science-focused classes are offered

Classes in pre-ballet, classical ballet, tap, jazz,

2500 square foot loft with two large studios and

for all ages. A Brain Camp for 4th and 5th grad-

musical theater/Broadway, hip-hop, modern

plenty of stroller parking in the lobby. Dance birth-

ers will delve into the mysteries of the brain and

dance and flamenco for ages 2.5 to teens. 428

day parties are available, too. 62 Orchard Street,

explore the fascinating field of neuroscience. A

east 75th Street, 2nd Floor, 212-717-5419,

2nd Floor, 212-343-1620, lesdanceacademy.com.

sampler camp offers children going into 1st grade

American Youth Dance Theater

a taste of what hands-on learning is all about with

americanyouthdancetheater.com. (Ages 2.5 years through teens)

Lucy Moses School at Kaufman Center

Ballet Academy East

New York’s largest community arts school offers

Programs include the pre-professional ballet divi-

music, dance and theater classes as well as private

sion for ages 7-18, pre-ballet, tap and modern for

lessons for children and teens, including Instru-

ages 3-6, Mother & Child classes for 2-years-olds

ment Discovery, where kids can learn about new

and adult ballet, tap, Pilates and yoga. Summer-

instruments and the basic elements of music by try-

dance immerses children ages 4-8 in fun and cre-

ing out the violin, cello, piano, recorder, drums and

ative activities mainly centering on the arts. Activi-

xylophones. 129 West 67th Street, 212-501-3360,

ties include ballet, tap, jazz, musical theater, art,

kaufman-center.org/lms. (Ages 2 years and up)

drama, swimming, cooking, origami, yoga, Zumba and more! 1651 Third Avenue, 3rd Floor, 212-4109140, baenyc.com. (Ages 2 years to adult)

New York Theatre Ballet The Children’s Division offers pre-ballet through advanced ballet classes in Cecchetti syllabus plus

The Ballet Club

six-week workshops in modern, character and

The Ballet Club is a unique ballet program that

theater dance. Enrollment by invitation or audi-

offers professional training in a nurturing environ-

tion for summer and fall programs. 30 east 31st

ment, as well as a foundation of life skills and

Street, 5th Floor, 212-679-0401, nytb.org. (Ages

intellectual stimulation. It includes the Children’s

3 years and up)

Creative Dance Club and the Performing Arts Preprofessional Division. 328 east 61st Street, 2nd

Peridance Center

Floor, 212-204-6348, manhattanyouthballet.org.

The School at Peridance offers dance classes at all

(Ages 8 to 18 years)

levels from toddlers to teens. With almost 30 years of knowledge and experience in children’s dance education, Peridance presents a diverse array of

Ballet Hispanico This venue offers a balanced curriculum in ballet, Spanish dance and creative movement. The Ballet Hispanico Dance Explorers Camp engages boys and girls ages in the balanced exploration of

Kick & Play

48

Kidville

New York Family | July 2011

CLASSGuide_0711.indd 48

class disciplines including Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Musical Theater, Hip-Hop, Salsa, African, Creative Movement and more! 126 east 13th Street, 212505-0886, peridance.com. (Ages 18 months and up)

The School at Steps

three fun days that focus on Astrophysics, Frogs, and Dinosaurs. 79th Street and central Park West, 212-769-5200, amnh.org. (Ages 3 and up)

FasTracKids Classes are proven to prepare children for school and life by improving their communication and leadership skills. Through their interactive Smartboard, experiments, role play and art projects, children have so much fun they don’t realize how much they are learning! Topics include Natural Science, Technology and Math. Schedule a trial class and see for yourself. ueS and uWS locations, 212-737-3344, manhattanenrichment.com.

(Ages 3.5 to 7)

Liberty Science Center Liberty Science Center is home to hundreds of hands-on exhibits. From the thrill of balancing on an I-beam 18 feet up in the air to experiencing an engaging film in the nation’s largest IMAX Dome Theater, there are hundreds of things to do, see and learn. Families with children ages 2-5 will especially enjoy the We Explore program on weekdays through August. 222 Jersey city Boulevard, Jersey city, 201-253-1310, lsc.org. (Ages 2 and up)

Take Two Film Academy Take Two has everything from Green Screen, to Screenwriting, to Production, to Acting Reels, to

Loop of the Loom www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 1:21 PM

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three little birds music music education & exploration for children

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Westside’s Premier Program Going Strong for 23 Years!

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Documentary and beyond. Classes are a great way

where inspired, native-speaking teachers bring

traditional music, movement, games, props and

for aspiring filmmakers and actors to learn tech-

lessons to life. Science, the arts, culture and tech-

art. ¡HOLA! will be offering a 5 week Summer

niques from professional in the field. 795 Columbus

nology are integrated into high-energy themes

Program at all locations. Various locations in

Avenue, 917-546-6816, taketwofilmacademy.com.

and creative projects. 175 Riverside Boulevard (at

manhattan, 917-648-5006, holaplaygroup.com.

(Ages 5 to 15)

68th Street), 212-787-8088, bilingualbudsnyc.

(Ages 12 months to 8 years)

com. (Ages 5 to 10 years)

Iberian American Institute Tribeca Learning Center

Bilingual Birdies

This new Spanish language school in Manhattan

The Tribeca Learning Center offers academic

Bilingual Birdies is a foreign language and live

offers Saturday classes, and provides a safe and

and creative programs for children with special

music program for children. They offer group

encouraging atmosphere in which to learn. The

developmental needs. Programs include lessons

classes in Spanish, French, Mandarin and Hebrew.

consistent, year-round program is taught by expe-

in reading, writing, math, exercise, arts and crafts,

Children learn through live music, movement,

rienced, native-speaking teachers. Classes taught

music, dance, computers, Mommy/Daddy & Me

puppetry, and games. Each class ends with an

at Church of the Epiphany, 1393 york Avenue,

and much more. 21 Saint Johns Lane, 718-812-

awesome bubble dance party! This fall Bilingual

212-688-6619. (Ages 3 years to adult)

1910, tribecalearningcenter.org. (Ages 2-6)

Birdies launches a drop-off afterschool program.

GymnAStiCS Jodi’s Gym

Various locations in manhattan, Brooklyn and

Instituto Cervantes

Queens, 646-443-1313, bilingualbirdies.com.

Instituto Cervantes offers year-round Spanish

(Ages 8 months to 5 years)

language courses for kids and teenagers, including one-week summer camps in July and August.

Jodi’s Gym has been providing fun, friends and fitness to New York kids for thirty years. Programs

Carousel of Languages

Through a unique immersion program imparted

for children include: Teeny Tumblers, Mighty

The Carousel of Languages seeks to enrich the

by native instructors, children learn to understand

Muscle Movers, Rockin’ Rollers, Tumbling Tots,

minds and spirits of young children through the

and express themselves in Spanish, while improv-

Creative Cartwheeling Kids, Fun-Tastic Gymnas-

beauty and discovery of a foreign language. Hourly

ing their communication skills. 211 East 49th

tics, Accelerated & Advanced Gymnastics, Totally

classes available in Italian, Mandarin, French and

Street, 212-308-7720, Ext. 3, newyork.cervantes.

Tumbling, Motion Evolution and Creation Station

Spanish. 1300 madison Avenue and 144 West

org. (Ages 4 and up)

Dance classes! 244 East 84th Street, 212-772-

72nd Street, 212-501-8524, carousellanguages.

7633, jodisgym.com. (Ages 9 months-12 years

com. (Ages 6 months to 12 years)

Language Workshop for Children

Collina Italiana

Original LWFC songs, visual aids and games

My Gym My Gym offers classes that incorporate music, dance and games, and are designed to build selfesteem and confidence through age-appropriate, non-competitive gymnastics and fitness activities.

The state-of-the-art facility can also host actionpacked birthday parties. 250 East 60th Street, 212-421-9496, 22 West 66th Street, 212-7243400, my-gym.com. (Ages 6 weeks to 9 years)

LAnGuAGE Baby Fingers Babies, toddlers and children and adults learn American Sign Language through music, guitar lessons, drama or storytelling classes. Music therapy is available. Manhattan and New Jersey Infant Massage classes also available. Various locations in manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn, 212-874-5978,

Toddlers can pick up basic Italian words and phrases through songs, games, dance, film and arts and crafts. Classes also available for elementary and middle-school kids. Specialty theater, cooking and arts and crafts classes and homework help also available. 212-427-7770, collinaitaliana.com. (Ages 2 years to adult)

French Institute/Alliance Française Children between the ages of 1 and 5 can enroll in “à petits pas,” a fun program that uses games, songs, dances and stories to teach basic French.

Summer camp for children ages 6-10 is stratified by fluency level and includes arts and crafts, theater, cooking classes and more. 22 East 60th Street, 646-388-6612, fiaf.org. (toddlers, Kids, teens and Adults)

mybabyfingers.com. (Ages newborn to 6 years)

¡HOLA! A Playgroup in Spanish Bilingual Buds

For ten years, ¡Hola! has followed a natural ap-

Bilingual Buds’s After School program focuses

proach to help develop oral skills. Programs focus

on all areas of language acquisition: listening,

on a wide repertory of concepts to build vocabu-

speaking, reading and writing. During each ses-

lary and help acquire the correct use of phonetics.

sion, students enter a full immersion environment

Classes are taught through use of original and

The Diller-Quaile Scool of Music

The Language Workshop

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New York Family | July 2011

CLASSGuide_0711.indd 50

are used to teach French, Spanish, Italian and Chinese. Classes, Camps, & Preschools. This fall, LWFC begins offering mixed age Languages for Tots® classes. Many educators advocate mixed age classrooms because they mirror the way that children learn at home. Various locations in manhattan, 212-396-0830, languageworkshopforchildren.com.

(Ages 6 months to 9 years)

muSiC & PERfoRmAnCE ABC Do-Re-ME! Offers enriching quality, affordable and flexible drop-in music programs for babies, toddlers and kids including the popular Musical Playdate, Musical Stories and Classical Playdate. The guitar playing teachers lead the class in giggles, dance and song by performing favorite nursery rhymesongs and other great children’s songs. multiple locations in nyC, 646-434-1419, abcdoreme.com.

(Ages newborn to 7 years)

Applause New York City Programs develop musical and rhythmic skills, incorporating costumes, props and musical instru-

Three Little Birds www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 1:21 PM

German for Children New York State Accredited

After School ProgrAm low tuition AP germAn PreP Minimum Age: Four Years Children’s Class Meets Once A Week From 4:30-6:15 No Previous German Required

Classes Start In September Adult Programs Available

GERMAN AMERICAN SCHOOL

Teaching German For Over 119 Years

(212) 787-7543 or (718) 456-8706

www.german-american-school.org

four convenient locAtionS: Manhattan • Garden City Franklin Square • Queens (Ridgewood)

NEW YORK CITY

Home

o f R o c k ‘ n ’ R o l l B a b i e s , B ro a d w a y B a b i e s & S u p e r s t a r s

Babies & Preschoolers

Kids

Tweens & Teens

Enroll Now for Fall 2011 • Classes Begin Sep. 10!

184 East 76th St. New York, NY 10021

Partials_0711.indd 15

(212) 717-0703

Call Us Today! applauseny.com

6/24/11 10:35 AM

ments. Budding stars ages 5-18 can take classes

children both in and out of class using a rich and

theme. The Fall Semester will have weekly themes

in acting, dancing and singing and auditioning.

varied collection of songs and chants. EWMT is

including train party, pirate party, jungle safari

184 East 76th Street, 212-717-0703, applauseny.

rolling out Music Together® Big Kids this fall. 102

party, and a sun, moon, stars solar system party.

com. (Ages newborn to 18 years)

West 75th Street, 212-496-1242, eswsmusicto-

New York Junior League, 130 East 80th Street,

gether.com. (Ages newborn to 4 years)

moeysmusicparty.com. (Ages newborn to 4 years)

Atlantic for Kids offers classes in acting, playwrit-

Greenwich House Music School

Music for Aardvarks

ing, improvisation and much more. Aspiring actors

Greenwich House offers private lessons, group

Interactive classes include simple movement,

and playwrights can also sign up for the Saturday

classes, and ensembles with regular recitals.

dancing, singing, storytelling and instruments,

Youth Program. Their Summer Young Creators

Children ages 6-10 can develop their voices

often with a city-focused theme. Classes are held

Workshop allows children ages 9-11 to perform a

through individual and group singing in the Young

all over NYC and the Tri-state area. 199 Lafayette

show, create costumes and sets, learn how an actor

Voices class, which incorporates sight-singing ex-

Street, 718-858-1741, musicforaardvarks.com.

prepares, and more! 76 Ninth Avenue, 212-691-

ercises, theory and songs representing a range of

(Ages 6 months to 5 years)

5919, atlanticactingschool.org. (Ages 4 to 18 years)

musical styles. 46 Barrow Street, 212-242-4770,

Atlantic Acting School

Creative Play For Kids

greenwichhouse.org. (Ages newborn and up)

New York Jazz Academy is NYC’s fastest-growing

Creative Play For Kids brings music, movement

Hands On!

and play all together in their fun and upbeat

Age-appropriate music classes teach basic music

program! Developmentally appropriate classes are

concepts, which are introduced while children play

designed for babies and toddlers. Children’s senses

miniature instruments. Each class has a pianist.

are stimulated by the singing, dancing, instrument

Art classes are also offered. Multiple locations,

playing, story telling, bubbles and a play time.

212-628-1945, handson4music.com. (Ages 4

Multiple locations in Manhattan, 212-729-1667,

months to 5 years)

creativeplayforkids.com (Ages 3 months to 3 years)

The Diller-Quaile School of Music

New York Jazz Academy

Jazz at Lincoln Center WeBop! classes introduce little musicians to the

Early childhood instruction teaches children basic

spirit of jazz. Infants and toddlers sing and stomp,

music concepts through listening, movement, sing-

while older children tap out their own beats and

ing, playing authentic percussion instruments and,

learn to match sound to symbol. Classes are

eventually, reading and writing music. The Early

available for enrollment now for Fall: “the ABC’s

Childhood Music and Art and Preschool Music and

of Jazz” and the Jazz for Young People concert

Art courses provide a creative alternative to a nurs-

series kicks off with “Who is Duke Ellington” with

ery school program. 24 East 95th Street, 212-369-

host Wynton Marsalis on November 5. Frederick

1484, diller-quaile.org. (Ages 4 months and up)

P. Rose Hall, Broadway at 60th Street, 212-2589800, jalc.org. (Ages 8 months to 8th grade)

The Early Ear Highly-skilled music teachers and pianists work

Little Maestros

together to introduce music to children. Kids

Each class features four live musicians who sing

engage in sing-alongs, movement, musical games

and play guitar, piano, and drums. Little Maestros

and stories. Specially-designed kid-sized music in-

takes children on a fantastic musical journey

struments await the touch of curious little hands.

each week. You and your child will love musical

New at the East 78th Street Studio is “Dance with

story times, songs of all kinds, imaginative play,

Me,” a dance and pre-ballet program for ages 2.5

language development activities, puppet shows,

and older. 48 West 68th Street, 110 West 96th

and “bubble music.” Come and join the fun! Vari-

Street, 353 East 78th Street, 212-877-7125,

ous locations, 212-772-8435, littlemaestros.com.

theearlyear.com. (Ages 4 months to 5 years)

(Ages newborn to 5 years)

Eastside Westside Music Together

Moey’s Music Party

Nurtures children’s natural enthusiasm for music

Birthdays, Christmas and Hanukkah come once a

and movement through singing, dancing, chant-

year, but every day’s a party in this fun, interactive

ing and playing instruments. Teachers trained

music class with Off-Broadway songwriter, Moey!

in developmentally appropriate practice lead

Sessions include songs, dances, props, instru-

you through musical ways to interact with your

ments, puppets and letters based on a weekly party

music school. Students are introduced to musical fundamentals, including instrumental technique, note-reading and music theory, while also developing their improvisation skills. Check the NYJA website for fall 2011 scheduling for Jelly Jamz baby/toddler music classes. 263 West 86th Street, 718-426-0633, nyjazzacademy.com. (Ages newborn and up)

School For Strings Early childhood music classes are offered for kids ages 16 months to 4 years. The Instrumental Program gives kids of all ages expert instruction in violin, cello and piano. 419 West 54th Street, 212-315-0915, schoolforstrings.org. (Ages 16 months to adult)

StageCoach Theatre Arts Through classes in dance, music and drama, kids gain an appreciation for the arts and build self-confidence. Classes are broken down by age and skill level, and most feature a presentation at the end of the season for family and friends. Held at PS6, 45 East 81st St, 347-6788989, stagecoachschools.com/uppereastside.

(Ages 4 to 16 years)

TADA! Musical Theater summer camps are in full swing all summer at TADA!, where kids learn to sing, dance, and act. Summer is a time for kids to learn and have fun, so week-long summer camps have themes like “Grab Some Magic,” “Pirate Tales and Treasures,” and “GLEEk Out!” At the end of each week, campers perform their original TADA! musical for friends and family. 15 West 28th Street, 3rd Floor, 212-252-1619, tadatheater.com. (Ages 2-14)

Victoria Jackson Photography

Yogi Beans

52

New York Family | July 2011

CLASSGuide_0711.indd 52

Art Farm

Super Soccer Stars www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 1:22 PM

ORZ 009 NY Family Ad Final

7/20/10

10:58 AM

Page 1

Our Children Love Hebrew School!

We teach language, history, religion and love of Judaism in small classes at convenient times.

There’s a joy of discovery and learning in the air at Or Zarua’s Hebrew School.

We’re dedicated to that goal— and you can see it in our children’s faces.

Agree with our philosophy?

Visit www.orzarua.org or call 212-452-2310 to register.

MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES HIGH HOLY DAYS SEATING PLUS CHILDREN’S SERVICES

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Partials_0711.indd 25

6/24/11 10:35 AM

Three Little Birds Music

Dasha Wellness

Whether by plucking guitar strings or tapping

Dasha Wellness introduces its new children’s

out staccato beats, parents and children learn

wellness program, Generation D. Generation D

together in TLB’s rich sensory environment. Age-

focuses on three wellness platforms: Sports &

specific classes teach elementary music theory

Games, Fitness and Nutrition. Your child’s plan

and improve cognitive skills while exposing

can include anything from baseball or dance to

kids to every instrument in the orchestra. TLB’s

body weight training and nutritional coaching.

spring/summer curriculum, “Joey Gets a Job,”

Recreational therapists and certified trainers

has children exploring professions through mu-

teach your child to set goals, learn healthy habits,

sic. Musical selections include classical hits

and have a blast doing it. 115 East 57th Street,

by great composers, children’s songs everyone

Suite 520, 212.755.5500, dashawellness.com.

knows, and contemporary popular music. 266

(Ages 5 and up)

East 78th Street, 212-744-0404, tlbmusic.com.

(Ages 4.5 months to 5 years)

SportS & AdvEnturE Yorkville Sports

Fastbreak Kids Offers basketball and football (both flag and tackle) weekend sports leagues for kids. Provides coaching in small groups (or even one-on-one instruc-

The Yorkville Youth Athletic Association is a not-

tion.) various locations in Manhattan, 212-724-

for-profit organization serving children in Manhat-

FASt, fastbreakkids.com. (Ages 6 to 14 years)

tan and the surrounding boroughs. They offer baseball, basketball, flag football, tackle football,

Kids In Sports

soccer, lacrosse, roller hockey, tennis and drama.

This athletic program offers a variety of sports

Don’t miss out on the Competition, Camaraderie,

including baseball, basketball, floor hockey, flag

Community. 212-360-0022, yyaa.org. (pre-K to

football and soccer, in a fun and encouraging set-

12th Grade)

ting. This fall, Kids In Sports is expanding programs with JUST CLASSES where kids can focus on their

Big City Volleyball This co-ed adult volleyball league with fullsize courts scattered throughout the city offers

favorite sport! various locations in Manhattan, 212-744-4900, kisnyc.com. (Ages 1 to 12 years)

instruction for kids, too. Classes focus on the

Lil Sluggers

fundamentals of volleyball, proper mechanics, and

Lil’ Sluggers offers an introduction to baseball,

skill development. Multiple locations in Manhat-

tailored specifically for each age group. Students

tan, 212-288-4240, bigcityvolleyball.com. (Ages

learn to throw, catch, hit and run bases in a

10 to 16 years)

friendly environment. Advanced sluggers can sign up for weekly league classes. various locations,

Brooklyn Boulders Active kids will love the classes at Brooklyn Boulders, the city’s largest rock climbing gym. Children can join Kids League, where they’ll learn climbing basics and participate in fun climbing games and activities. Climbers 10 and above can join BKB Academy, where they can have fun with other tweens. Also look for BKB Summer Adventures; week-long camps featuring climbing, arts and crafts, yoga, games, and more. 575 degraw Street, Brooklyn, 347-834-9066, brooklynboulders.com. (Ages 3 to 10)

631-367-9378. (Ages 2 to 7 years)

Simply Sports This athletic program for kids emphasizes not

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New York Family | July 2011

CLASSGuide_0711.indd 54

tion from experienced pros, combined with friendly competition in a wide variety of team sports activities. Campers participate in two hours of daily tennis instruction. In addition, Tennis & Sports campers learn to play basketball, soccer, kickball, flag football, softball and other team sports on beautiful outdoor fields and facilities. one randall’s Island, 212-427-6150, sportimeny.com.

Sutton East Tennis The youth program at Sutton East trains students in an age-appropriate environment. In Pee Wee Tennis, the courts, rackets and foam balls are sized down to allow for comfortable skill development.

Pre-Junior classes function on a half-court, while Junior level students use a full-court to practice advanced strokes, double strategies, and serving techniques. The Pee-Wee Multi-Sports Academy introduces children to tennis, soccer, basketball and t-ball. 488 East 60th Street, 212-751-3452, suttoneasttennis.com. (Ages 3 to 18 years)

Wollman Skating Rink Learn to skate outdoors at Central Park’s iconic Wollman Rink. The rink offers classes as well as private lessons in skating and figure skating.

Central park at 59th Street and Sixth Avenue, 212-439-6900, wollmanrink.com. (Ages 3 and up)

MArtIAL ArtS East Side Tae Kwon Do East Side Tae Kwon Do’s yoga classes are developmentally appropriate and taught by experienced instructors. Kids experience all the benefits of yoga, plus they have a great deal of fun! Classes develop stamina, core muscle strength and flexibility as well as discipline, perseverance and mental acuity. 325 East 65 Street, 212-755-5982, eastsidetaekwondo.com.

(Ages 18 months to 12 years)

just skills and technique, but a love of the game.

Classes available in soccer, basketball, flag football, baseball, hockey, and dodgeball. various locations in Manhattan, 877-213-BALL, simplysports.net. (Ages 3 to 13 years)

Sportime at Randall’s Island SPORTIME Tennis & Sports Camp offers young

The JCC in Manhattan

athletes high quality, professional tennis instruc-

Gymtime Rhythm and Glues

Tiger Schulmann’s Mixed Martial Arts Tiger Schulmann’s Cubs program is the perfect choice for preschoolers to learn developmental skills in a fun, safe environment. Children’s (ages 5-7) and Kid’s programs (ages 8 and up) teach discipline and self-defense while developing confidence, focus and

Applesauce www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 1:22 PM

Grand Opening

Fall 2011

Learning Through Play Early Birds from 7:30am and After School 3pm to 6pm Infant to 6 years and 6 years to 12 years after school program

41 Grand Street Brooklyn, NY 11211 www.2by2preschool.net • grante474@aol.com Call 718-812-1910 or 347-512-2202

LA ScuoLA D’ItALIA GuGLIELMo MARcoNI 12 East 96th Street, New York, NY 10128

Pre K-12th Grade

Training the dancers of tomorrow

La Scuola d’Italia is a private unique Italian/English bilingual and bicultural school reflecting the best features of the Italian and American education.

La Scuola d’Italia is chartered by the Board of Regents of the State of New York and by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Italy.

A magical summer of movement & music…

The School is a member of the New York State Association of Independent Schools.

REGISTER NOW

www.lascuoladitalia.org tel. 212-369-3290 email: secretary@lascuoladitalia.org

a division of STEPS on Broadway 2121 Broadway @ 74th St., New York, NY 10023 212 874-3678 • www.StepsNYC.com

Partials_0711.indd 17

Photo: Rosalie O’Connor

Knowledge of the Italian/English language is not a pre-requisite for admission to Pre-K through 9th grade.

6/24/11 11:49 AM

determination. 39 West 19th Street, 212-727-0773

enroll in swim team prep, while kids under 3

or 1-800-52-TIGER, TSK.com. (Ages 3 years and up)

years and their parents will like the sing-along

Mathnasium Through tutoring and enrichment programs,

program, “Me and My Shadow.” All swimmers will

students build a solid math foundation, receive

learn to be safe, confident and efficient. Various

both homework guidance and a customized

Classes for children ages 3-5 use physical activ-

locations around Manhattan, 212-725-0939, phy-

program that fills in skill gaps and builds

ity to promote respect and confidence. Starting

siqueswimming.com. (Ages 4 months to 15 years)

fluency with numbers. Get your child back

West Side Taekwondo

into a math state-of-mind at end of summer

at age 6, children can enroll in the Children’s Program, which emphasizes discipline. 700 Co-

Swim Jim

“Re-Boot” Camps which include fun math

lumbus Avenue, 212-663-3998, westsidetkd.com.

Toddler classes teach children ages 6 months

games and activities! 1597 York Avenue, 212-

(Ages 3 years and up)

to 3 years how to be comfortable in the water.

828-6284, mathnasium.com/manhattan. (Ages

Classes for older kids focus on stroke technique.

Pre-K to 12th grade)

Soccer Kick & Play

Individual and group classes offered. Lessons taught year-round. Pool locations throughout

Brought to you by Super Soccer Stars, experi-

the city, 212-749-7335, swimjim.com. (Ages 6

enced instructors along with puppet friends, Mimi

months and up)

& Pepe, take you and your little one through a develop pre-soccer skills that will have your

Tutoring Bright Kids NYC

toddler learning to balance, run, kick & play—all

Bright Kids NYC is the premiere tutoring and test

while having a blast! Locations in Manhattan,

preparation company for grades Pre-K to 8th in

Brooklyn, and Hoboken, 212-877-5425,

NYC. A Stanford Binet summer value course is now

kickandplay.com (12 to 24 months)

available to prepare for the fall Hunter entry exam

world of exciting physical activity. Weekly classes

and the wildly popular OLSAT bootcamp is back,

Soccer by Coach Fher

running from September to January. All courses are

Soccer by Coach Fher offers his popular classes

one-on-one with a certified teacher. 225 Broadway,

year-round. The program introduces children to

Suite 3104, 917-539-4575, brightkidsnyc.com.

basic soccer skills through a series of fun games

(Ages Pre-Kindergarten to 8th grade)

and activities. Summer camp runs through August and the fall season runs September 12

EBL Coaching

to November 19. Locations vary, 917-650-3008,

EBL Coaching provides one-on-one tutoring to

coachfher.com. (Ages 3 to 8)

students in grades pre K-12 using research-based, multi-sensory strategies. They specialize in read-

SocRoc

ing, writing, math, organization, and study skills

Age appropriate soccer classes taught by profes-

development, and also offer specialized programs

sional coaches--emphasis on fun, learning basic

for students with learning disabilities and ADHD.

soccer skills, balance, strength, coordination,

17 East 89th Street, Suite 1D, 212-249-0147,

endurance, teamwork, and SCORING GOALS! 235

eblcoaching.com. (Ages Pre-K to 12th grade)

East 49th Street, 917-703-0409, jcsocroc.com.

(Ages 2 to 14)

Kumon Center Kumon is an after-school enrichment program

Super Soccer Stars

that unlocks the potential of children so they can

Summer programs include: Flexible Drop-in

achieve more on their own. The Kumon method

Classes, Day Camps, Mini Camps, Advanced

uses an individualized approach that helps chil-

Clinics, and more. Positive reinforcement, a

dren develop a solid command of math and read-

non-competitive environment, and a low child-to-

ing skills. Through daily practice and mastery of

coach ratio ensure that each child will improve his

materials, students increase confidence, improve

or her soccer skills—while having endless fun!

concentration and develop better study skills.

More than 150 locations throughout the Tri-State

Various locations, 1-800-ABC-MATH, kumon.

area, 212-877-7171, supersoccerstars.com.

com. (Ages Pre-K to 12th grade)

(Ages 2 and up)

Swimming New York Sports Club

Launch Math Launch Math Achievement Centers provide kids with inspiring math instruction throughout the

Lessons available for kids of various ages and

year and exciting camps during summer months.

skill levels. Class levels range from Water Tot to

Launch engages kids with fun, real world activi-

Swim Team Conditioning. Private lessons also

ties that illustrate math’s connection to subjects

offered. 1637 Third Avenue, 212-987-7200,

they love. Launch Learning program. Launch—

mysportsclubs.com. (Ages 6 months to 14 years)

Real World Math—Out of this World Fun! 173 West 81st Street, Lower Level (between 81st and

Physique Swim School Offers a progressive program designed for all

Amsterdam), 949-528-6240, launchmath.com.

(Ages Pre-K to 8th grade)

The Princeton Review The Princeton Review helps students by focusing on preparation and practice to improve performance in the classroom and on standardized tests. Through its website it also helps parents, teachers, students and schools navigate the complexities of school admissions. 594 Broadway, Suite 502, 646-613-9500, princetonreview.com.

(All Ages)

Yoga Karma Kids Yoga New York’s only yoga studio just for kids, Karma Kids Yoga offers yoga classes for infants 6 weeks old through teens, Family Yoga, CircusYoga, free Story Time Yoga, and Prenatal Yoga for mommiesto-be. Yoga Birthday Parties, too! 104 West 14th Street, 646-638-1444, karmakidsyoga.com.

(Ages 2 months and up)

The Prenatal Yoga Center In addition to Mommy and Me Yoga, Infant Massage, Tummy Time, Music for Babies, and Baby Fingers, the center offers workshops and lectures that address issues related to pregnancy, childbirth education, breastfeeding, early childhood parenting, and family dynamics. 251 West 72nd Street, 2F, 212-362-2985, prenatalyogacenter. com. (Ages newborn to 18 months)

Yoga Stars From the creators of Super Soccer Stars, class structure engages children through songs, games, and poses that get kids moving and focusing! Classes maintain a low child-to-instructor ratio opening up a universe of individualized learning and growth. 131 West 86th Street, 212.787.9642, yogastars.com. (Ages 2-10 years)

Yogi Beans Yogi Beans is an educational, energetic, and transformative yoga-for-kids program. The Yogi Beans’ curriculum is tailored to introduce kids to the foundations of yoga, while giving them the freedom to let their individual personalities flourish and develop organically. Various locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, 212-787-YOGA, yogibeans.com. (Ages prenatal to 10 years)

levels of swimmers. Kids ages 8 and older can

56

New York Family | July 2011

CLASSGuide_0711.indd 56

www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 1:22 PM

Come Play Yoga at Karma Kids Yoga!

Summer Day Camp in BPC

Swim Lessons All Year Round Taming the lions.

Financial District | Battery Park | Midtown East Upper East Side | Upper West Side

Yoga for Babies Toddlers, Kids, Teens, Families Community Yoga CircusYoga Prenatal Yoga Free Story Time Yoga Yoga Birthday Parties Special Events Teacher Training

Bring the zen home with our new CD, Come Play Yoga!, Mom’s Choice Awards Winner, available at CDbaby. com, Amazon, selected tracks on iTunes and now playing on Pandora.

www.physiqueswimming.com

212-725-0939

Karma Kids Yoga | 104 West 14th Street, NYC | karmakidsyoga.com | (646)638-1444

Add

to your summer!!

X 506 Amsterdam Avenue (b/t 84th and 85th)

1597 York Avenue (b/t 84th and 85th)

212-828-MATH (6284)

Enroll now in our week-long Summer Camps!

Partials_0711.indd 16

6/24/11 10:37 AM

thE

G u I D E : N E w a N D E x P E c ta N t Pa R E N t S

Now what?

From Building the Ideal Registry to Dealing with Your Mother-In-Law, Some Expert Guidance and advice For New and Expectant Parents

BY Maria rileY As the old adage goes, having a baby changes everything. The anticipation and readjustment of your world as you know it brings on unique emotions and an onset of questions, doubt and worry.

But with a little help from your friends, and a few leading experts, you can prepare to welcome these challenges and changes as the next wonderful phase of your evolving life.

What To Read During Pregnancy So you found out you’re expecting (congrats!), and you’re ready to rush out to the local bookstore for all the latest and greatest parenting texts. Prepare to be overwhelmed by hundreds of books on the subject, warns New York Family blog “Born & Bred” Founding Editor and new mother Leah Black. “My tip would be to pick one or two books that you really like that will carry you throughout your pregnancy,” says Black. “Look for one book that’s all encompassing.”

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One of her favorites is The Pregnancy Bible: Your Complete Guide to Pregnancy and Early Parenthood by Joanne Stone and Keith Eddleman. “It’s sort of like a textbook to pregnancy,” Black says.

The Pregnancy Bible has color photos and glossy pages, covering a little bit of everything that parents are experiencing (or are just plain curious about), including nutrition, fetal development, intimacy issues and maternity leave. “Actually, it has a cool scientific angle,” Black says. “I’ve recommended it to friends who really like it.”

The Balanced Registry When looking for the perfect registry items, “Born & Bred” maternity blogger and expectant mother Katie Main suggests a mix of inexpensive gifts with a few high-end choices. “You should decide what items are important enough that you want the higherend versions.” It also helps to ask friends with children what worked for them and what items seemed “unnecessary.”

For a registry location, Main recommends Babies "R" Us, www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 5:17 PM

Outstanding Physicians Exceptional Care

Wellness & Prevention Center 170 William Street, New York, NY 10038 Telephone: (212) 238-0180 www.downtownwellness.org

Buy Buy Baby, Giggle or myregistry.com where you can register items from the stores of your choice. “I registered online,” Main says, “because I found it helpful to read customer reviews.”

RegistRy Must-Haves 1. If you are someone who’s quick in the kitchen and plans on making your own baby food once your baby starts eating solids, the BEABA Babycook is a good choice. The countertop appliance is a multifunctional device that can steam, blend, warm and defrost foods with the click of a button.

2. In New York City, your stroller is like your car—so you want a good one. City Mini is a nice mid-price option. With a wide range of choices, including joggers, new parents will have no trouble finding a baby carriage that will get them from point A to point B in style.

3. For the first few weeks when the baby is still in your room— people swear by The Arm’s Reach® CO-SLEEPER® brand Bassinet. It’s a must-have for sleepless nights!

Overcoming Breastfeeding Struggles New and expectant moms dream about those initial bonding moments with baby, especially during feedings—one of the most intimate experiences of motherhood. But many mothers struggle.

“It is about building the most normal, healthy feeding relationship with your baby,” says Susan E. Burger, President of The New York Lactation Consultant Association.

If you’re dealing with breastfeeding troubles, Burger suggests that mothers remind themselves of all the things that are going well with their newborns. At the same time, acknowledging the frustration and sadness is okay and even expected. “Allow yourself to feel those emotions so you can properly mourn the loss of your idealized image of infant feeding. Then dust yourself off and figure out what you can do to make it better.”

For more information on feeding and bonding options, visit NYLCA.org.

Five Ways to BaBy-PRooF youR aPaRtMent James Hirtenstein, Owner and Founder of Baby-SAFE Inc., offers some important tips on how to baby-proof a city apartment.

Finding the right balance with your boss, spouse and a new baby proves complicated but not impossible with the right plan in place.

“Balance is a big part of it,” says Pamela Weinberg of Mind Your Own Business Moms, an organization dedicated to keeping stay-athome moms connected to the workforce. “I think new moms and new parents really never feel one-hundred percent comfortable, and I think that’s just the push-pull effect of going back to work.”

Because every corporate culture differs, Weinberg suggests that taking steps even before taking leave helps to prepare parents. “If at all possible, find a role model at work, someone you respect who has gone through this before.”

Talking with a mentor about their experience alleviates many unwarranted fears. And this goes for the boss as well. Set up a meeting to discuss your future plans, asking your employer “how they see it working,” to reach a mutual comfort zone.

“I think the biggest challenge every new parent faces is childcare,” says Weinberg. “There is no close second. It’s finding the right situation, person, daycare to care for your child so you feel comfortable and at ease.”

Set up check points during the day for calls with your childcare provider or have them keep a daily journal so you feel informed and connected.

Dealing With Your Mother After having a child, the relationship between you and your own mother evolves into something quite different.

“Sometimes it can be just a fresh start, a new relationship,” says Heather Ouida of babybites, an online social and educational community for moms and moms-to-be. “Just because you may have butted heads with your mom when you were growing up, it doesn’t mean that that dynamic will continue.”

Ouida recommends keeping an open mind. “You may discover things that you never knew about your mom. She may be the best grandmother and best support network for you.”

For those new moms who had a close relationship with their mother, as Ouida did, the natural positive energy and connection should carry over. “I think if you have a good relationship with your mom, be prepared that it will continue—embrace it, go with it,” Ouida says. “It’s such a positive thing for you and your child.”

1. identify all the dangers that are present in your home. Though simplistic in theory, it is the most important thing a parent can do.

The best way to identify dangers for a baby or toddler is to get down on all fours and crawl around as they will be doing, paying attention to potential hazards.

2. Make sure that the home is equipped with all fire safety equipment.

It’s also a good idea to include a rehearsed fire escape plan.

3. Latch up all cabinets with dangerous items stored inside.

Think of items like cleaning liquids, medicines, sharp objects—anything you wouldn’t want your child to touch or be near.

4. anchor all furniture that can tip over. You can do a simple test with a push of your hand. If it tips, be sure to secure it to the floor.

5. if the home has stairs, then safety gates should be attached at both top and bottom of the staircases. And if you don’t have stairs, always remember to keep an eye on your little ones when you’re out and about.

Back To Work After Baby One of the biggest challenges facing new parents is returning to work.

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…And Your Mother-In-Law Dr. Karen Rancourt, of Rancourt Parenting—a guidance-based program for parents of advantaged children—and “Ask Grandma Karen” (debuting this fall), shares two-word mantras for new or expectant moms and their mothers-in-law—lighten up and zip it, respectively.

Grandparents must recognize that they are a resource, not authoritarian, insists Dr. Rancourt. “My advice to grandmoms is to first and foremost remember we are the grandparents, not the parents,” she says.

Allowing new parents the control they need benefits the entire family. However, they should try to understand that taking on a more passive role in the early stages of grandparenthood may prove difficult initially for their own parents.

“You’ve earned the right to participate in raising your grandchildren and you earn that right by respecting who’s in the driver’s seat and you staying in the backseat,” Rancourt says with regard to new grandparents. “Lo and behold if you can do this consistently enough you may be invited to come up in the front seat and help in some of the more fundamental, important aspects of making these parenting decisions.” www.newyorkfamily.com

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The Baby Expo of All Baby Expos!

October 15th & 16th At Pier 92 The largest and most family-friendly consumer event in the United States this year is expected to attract thousands of new and expectant parents from the New York Metropolitan Area.

* Hundreds of Top Brands and Services for New Parents * Superstar Speaker Series * Fashion Runway Shows * Stroller Test Drive Track * National and Local Press Shop, Learn, and Explore with:

Alliance Nursing New York, Asphalt Green, Baby Art, Baby Breeza, Buy Buy Baby, Britax, Carnegie Hall, Cleanwell, East Side West Side Music Together, Espisencial, Hoppop, Inglesina, Little Pim, Mabel’s Labels, MAM Baby, Maxi-Cosi, Plum Organics, Pour Deux Maternity, Prince Lionheart, Quinny, Resource Furniture, Skip Hop, Smooth Parenting, Snugli, Viacord, Woolly Boo and more...

For tickets and more info: Visit newparentsexpo.com

Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook Call Rebecca Martin 212 284 9732

Presented by

The

guide:new parenTs expo

Our Favorite Things A Sneak Peek At Some Of The Best And Brightest Products From New York Family’s Upcoming New Parents Expo Editor’s Note: From the most popular parenting authors and experts in the country to the coolest goods and services, The New Parents Expo will be the baby show of all baby shows in the tri-state area. See sidebar on page 63 for more details.

Mabel’s Labels Colourful Essentials Combo Kids naturally accumulate a lot of stuff. (That’s an understatement.) And when they get older, they schlep that stuff everywhere—from school to French tutoring sessions. So while they may be big enough to go to the pool and sleepovers without you, they still may need your help keeping track of it all. With these durable, waterproof, sticky and iron-on labels, you don’t have to worry about your child’s things getting mixed up with someone else’s, thanks to the personalization. Plus, your big kid can feel in control when she chooses which of the 27 designs she fancies! $48 for 30 sticky labels, 40 iron-ons or 70 Tag Mates, 12 Shoe Labels, 2 Teeny Tags, mabelslabels.com

Mabel’s Labels Colourful Essentials

Baby Brezza One Step Baby Food Maker Disappointed with the same-old selection of premade baby food on grocery store shelves?

Take matters into your own hands! Steam and blend the food you’d like to make your child with the one-bowl design of Baby Brezza’s Baby Food Maker, which whips fruits, vegetables and even fish into homemade purees. Go green by eliminating excess glass jars and packaging from store-bought food. Stumped for ideas? Baby Brezza’s website offers plenty of recipes from basics to choices that will please the most cultivated foodie palettes. $99.99, babybrezza.com

Snugli Baby Carrier Plum Organics Fruit & Grain Mish Mash Fast food no longer has to equal unhealthy food with Plum Organics’ new Fruit & Grain Mish Mash for babies and toddlers. These on-the-go treats come in portable, re-sealable pouches (with a child-safe cap!), are packed with a nutritional punch, and combine real fruit and textured, whole grains. The light-weight design encourages babes to self-feed. Available in yummy new varieties: Blueberry Oats & Quinoa, Apple Cinnamon Oats & Quinoa, and gluten-free Banana Rice & Quinoa. $1.29 for a 3.17 oz. pouch, plumorganics.com

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As cute as your new Coach purse is, you can’t exactly haul your child around the city in it. Snugli’s new carrier line features 16 stylish patterns of both front and back designs, which you can use to safely transport your child. Love Tattoo (shown left), Union Jack and Mini Skulls are just some of the themes that spice up these carriers, which feature breathable fabrics, self-adjusting back straps, and one-handed buckles.

The extra padding in the shoulders will ease the strain on your back, and the beefed-up head support and leg holes will keep your child safe and comfortable. For babies 7-27 lbs. $39.99, buybuybaby.com www.newyorkfamily.com

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Britax B-AGILE Stroller Strollers should make your life easier—not more of a hassle. Britax’s new three-wheel BAGILE model weighs less than 17 pounds and folds up with one hand, making it easy to grab and go (especially with another kid in tow). This thoughtfully-designed model is suitable for children up to 55 pounds and can be used with Britax Infant Car Seats (sold separately), and includes a one-step linked parking brake and belly rests. Plus, a large under seat storage basket for the miscellaneous things in life! $249.99, britaxusa.com

MAM Anti-Colic Bottle Ease the transition between breastfeeding and bottle-feeding with this innovative bottle, crafted with the help of pediatricians and developmental psychologists. The vented base prevents babies from gulping air and spilling while they feed and the patented Silk Teat Nipple feels familiar to babies and reduces confusion—suitable for both formula and breast milk. Filling, cleaning, and self-sterilizing have never been easier! Available in a 5- or 8-ounce design, comes in four colors and is shatter-proof. $6.99, target.com

Woolly Boo Infant Sleep Sack Everyone loves to feel cocooned in comfort—especially at bedtime! Infants can feel the love with Woolly Boo’s organic sleep sacks (essentially wearable blankets), created from breathable, hypo-allergenic and natural materials. Get creative by customizing the sleep sack with your choice of inside and outside fabric, made of natural cotton, which layers the wool filler. The protected seams will keep your baby comfortable all night long, even when he wears the sleep sack against his bare skin. $150, woollyboo.com

Pour Deux, Maternity For Two Split Flutter Sleeve Drawstring Maternity Top Ditch the oversized sweats and extra-large tees; you don’t need ‘em! Look good and feel great in this flowy, flutter sleeve top by Maternity For Two. Designed to emphasize a fun, feminine figure, you can adjust the drawstrings as necessary to accommodate and complement your growing belly. The lightweight silk habotai voile glides right on over your skin, offering the comfort you want and the head turns you deserve. (Reader Discount: Use code nyfamily to get 30% off) $109, maternityfortwo.com

CleanWell Surface Disinfectant Spray To-Go Spills, sweat and sludge got ya down? Throw a one-ounce disinfectant spray from CleanWell in your purse or diaper bag and be prepared to eliminate all of the above!

With the power of Thymol (an ingredient of thyme oil), this spray cleans, disinfects and deodorizes www.newyorkfamily.com

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whatever nasty stuff gets in your way and kills 99.9% of germs. The most convenient part? No rinsing is necessary—simply grab, spray on a surface and heave a sigh of relief! $3.99, cleanwelltoday.com/shop

Prince Lionheart Flexi Bath A bath tub that folds? Sign us up! The Flexi Bath—a large tub that can be folded flat in a simple snap for easy storage on the road or in your bathroom—is a fun way for your child to appreciate bath time in a welcoming tub that’s just their size! Available in four fun colors, the Flexi Bath will add ease and excitement to your current bath time ritual (and will weather a little wiggling). For ages 0-4 years, BPA-free and contains no heavy metals. $44, princelionheart.com

gET SOME gEAR AT THE NEW PARENTS ExPO THE NATION’S BIggEST EvENT FOR NEW PARENTS THIS YEAR Calling all new and expectant parents! Coming this fall to Pier 92, our New Parents Expo is expected to be the single biggest event for parents in the nation this year! This megashow will enable parents to discover the best maternity, baby and toddler products from national and local companies, and will offer an inspiring menu of lectures, seminars and demonstrations from experts in the world of family and parenting. You’ll get the lowdown on strollers, car seats, nursery furnishings, safety products, early enrichment programs, infant and toddler toys, high chairs, baby bottles, lactation consultants, child CPR, family apps and countless other new parent essentials and resources. Highlights of the expo will include:

• A Speaker Series With Informational Seminars • A Stroller Test Drive Track • A Mother’s Lounge With Refreshments • A Fashion Runway Show The event will be held October 15 and 16 at Pier 92. Tickets are $35 in advance; $40 the day of the show. To learn more about the New Parents Expo and to purchase tickets, visit newparentsexpo.com, email Rebecca Martin at rmartin@ manhattanmedia.com, find it on Facebook or follow it on Twitter @NewParentsExpo.

July 2011 | New York Family

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The

g u i d e : h e a lT h & w e l l n e s s

iT’s good

green

Practical advice To living an eco-Friendly and healthy life (and how The Kids Can help)

BY NaNcY RYeRsoN Being a mother to two young children and running a website are both full-time jobs. But green living expert, Susan Hunt Stevens, finds time to do both while making the natural a part of her everyday. Her secret? Going green’s not that hard and every little change counts. After a substantial marketing career for Boston Media, a subsidiary of the New York Times Company, Stevens created PracticallyGreen.com—a site that encourages folks with their green-minded progress. She hopes her site, which includes a user-friendly tracker (similar to counting calories), can help people see that living green is a process that doesn’t have to be expensive, difficult or too involved—especially for busy parents. Here, Stevens shares her tips for families considering green living.

How did you get into green living?

My son, nearly two at the time, ate a small piece of a cashew and went into anaphylactic shock. We became part of the growing number of parents whose kids have food allergies. He also had some environmental allergies, which meant I had to start really reading labels. And so in the process of reading food labels, personal care labels, and cleaning product labels, I would start researching what else was in them. I was stunned by how many things were in our products that I didn’t really know. So I really came into it from the children’s environmental health side. So I started a blog about the changes we were making in our lives and I called it Practically Green—a guide to going green without going berserk.

What are a few beginning steps for parents who are considering this lifestyle?

When you look at living a green life overall, it’s so overwhelming.

Just approach it as what’s one thing I can do today or this week or this

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month? What matters is very different to every single family. It’s about being able to forge your own path.

1. Get rid of the toxins. I encourage every parent to do a toxin walk around your house and look at the chemicals—things like Raid. Green cleaning supplies have changed so dramatically in the last five years.

2. Check out personal care products. This is not something that is regulated. But you can go to the cosmetics database by The Environmental Working Group (ewg.org/skindeep), and you can put in the baby lotion that you’re using and get back a hazard score. Or you can go onto the Good Guide and get back a score on human health the effect on environmental health and whether the company is socially responsible.

3. Be wary of “The Dirty Dozen.” A lot of people have tight budgets and don’t have access to organics, or can’t buy them completely.

I’m with you! Every year, the Environmental Working Group looks at fruits and vegetables and how they absorb pesticides and chemicals that are used in the growing—called “The Dirty Dozen.” What that means is that you can’t wash it off, it’s in there, and it actually changes every year. But they also have the “Clean 15” that you don’t really have to buy organic from a human health standpoint.

4. Take off your shoes. People don’t realize that just this simple step, the equivalent of washing your hands, can keep about 80 percent of toxins that enter your home and your air…out!

You gave some great advice for parents of infants and new parents. Do you have different advice for older kids and tweens?

1. Make lunchtime green. The average quantity of waste that a school child creates from their lunch is 67 pounds per year. Basic things like switching to reusable lunchboxes, reusable sandwich bags, water www.newyorkfamily.com

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bottles, or putting in a little cloth towel instead of a paper napkin.

2. Explore a green market. Go to the famer’s market where they see the carrot with the green top…they don’t just come cut up in a plastic bag! I think it’s also really fun to help them pick vegetables. Kids who get really involved in shopping, choosing or helping to grow their food have much better diets.

3. Do a trash audit. Do it for a week. Go through the bags, see what’s in there. Your teens and tweens can start thinking about strategies to reduce your trash.

4. Embark on home improvement research. Low-flow faucets and low-flow showerheads can cost 10 to 15 dollars, depending on what you buy. A lot of people might be held back because they don’t know how to do it—but put your teenager on the research and have them learn how to install it. This teaches them life skills.

Bottom line: As a parent you don’t feel like you have the time to be green—but your kids do. And they have fun doing it. It’s a game, really, to get less trash, use less electricity and save water. And the millennials who are 18-29 are the greenest generation there’s been, and I think this upcoming one is going to be even greener.

What are your top five green tips for summer?

1. Look at your sunscreen. Check out your sunscreen on the cosmetics database by the Environment Working Group (ewg.org/ skindeep)—it's one of the worst-scoring products.

2. Eat local. From now until October is the best time to switch to local organic produce because you can get it from farms, farm stands and even Whole Foods.

3. Avoid frozen treats with additives. A lot of different summer treats for kids, like ice pops, contain some additives in them: high fructose corn syrup, preservatives and artificial coloring. Look at the box and make sure you’re not selecting things for your kids that say Red 40 or Blue 5—shown to cause hyperactivity in children.

4. Think veggie, re-think meat. You’ll probably be barbequing and grilling a lot, so think about your meat and your meat consumption.

Consider going vegetarian for a day—which can be super impactful for a family of four. Your food imprint, particularly driven by meat, is just as important as your transportation impact. In New York where a lot of people use public transportation, not eating meat might be your must impactful energy decision ever.

5. Ride a bike. If you were going to take a taxi somewhere, hop on your bike instead. It’s better for the air, better for you, and you don’t have the weather challenges like you do in January!

Plastic is everywhere, so how can people move away from using it, if they should?

First and foremost, get plastic out of the microwave. When it says microwave-safe, that doesn’t mean it won’t leach chemicals into your food. There are now really good tempered glass options for plates and cups so that if a child drops it, it doesn’t shatter.

Should we be concerned with bedding?

Yes. The place where I think plastics enter people’s lives and you want to be really aware of is with mattresses, especially kid’s mattresses. So many are made with foam and PVC vinyl—which is a very toxic substance. So try and avoid it in your kid’s products, like shower www.newyorkfamily.com

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curtains. In your mattress pad covers, choose more natural covers.

What about toys?

I think it’s close to impossible to avoid plastics in toys and electronics but you can limit it. Look for green toys that are made from recycled toys and don’t have lead. Instead of picking a foam puzzle, pick a wood or a cardboard puzzle.

Many parents are worried about the high costs of a green lifestyle. Are there ways to save?

The sticker shock is still a huge barrier to people. But if you really look at a healthy green lifestyle, you’re cutting back on your energy and water usage, and you are changing the way you consume. Also, look for vintage, antique or free-cycled items, or choose things that are much more durable so they last longer.

What would you say to a family who isn’t able to convert completely?

I’ve been doing this for five years and I’m nowhere close. Even if it’s just one thing per year; that’s better than zero things per year. It is a journey that has a different starting point for everyone. Find those things that personally motivate you. For me it was environmental health, for other people it might be trash. It might be saving money. I think everybody just has to feel good about doing the stuff that they’ve done.

For more information on Practically Green, visit practicallygreen.com.

A Quick Guide To Green City Resources PARENTING PRODUCTS Metrominis (metrominis.com) 821 Park Avenue at 75th Street BUILDING MATERIALS Green Depot (greendepot.com) 222 Bowery DRY CLEANERS Green Apple Cleaners (greenapplecleaners.com) 92 Greenwich Ave & 78 Seventh Ave (Park Slope) ECO-MINDED IDEAS Inhabitat (inhabitat.com) Sign up for their free e-news Pamela French A television director interested in a greener apple (huff.to/pamelafrench) The NY Times Energy & Environment Blog Green (green.blogs.nytimes.com) Parents of New York public schools NYC Green Schools (nycgreenschools.org) ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS GrowNYC (grownyc.org) Volunteer with this non-profit July 2011 | New York Family

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THe

WHAT’S for g u i D e : H e A lT H & W e l l n e S S

DinneR? How To Raise A Kid With Food Sense

By Grace Duggan Every parent knows it’s important for their little ones to eat well, but sometimes it’s easier said than done. Between school, playdates, dance classes, and swimming lessons—not to mention what you have on your own plate at work and home—nurturing your children’s palates can wind up on the backburner. Whether it’s getting your kids to help cook a tasty meal or teaching them about how carrots help their vision, there are countless ways to give your children the foundation they need to eat healthfully for the rest of their lives.

food shopping into a game,” says Tanya Zuckerbrot, creator of the fiberbased F-Factor Diet. “I say ‘Find the cereal that has 5 grams of fiber or more!’ and then my children rush down the aisle to find it. In the process, they learn how to read a food label and make healthful choices.”

Engage kids’ senses by letting them touch and smell produce – it may make a difference between refusing the unfamiliar asparagus and wanting to buy it to taste it at home. Jodi Greebel of the kid-friendly meal delivery service DinDins recommends taking advantage of time spent in the aisles to talk to kids about where food comes from, what it looks like, and how cooking can change it. You can ask them how different ingredients grow, what climates they grow in, and what animals like to eat them. As you shop, emphasize that the closer the food is to being picked or grown, the better it is for your family to share.

The Choosey Child

The average New Yorker’s filled-to-the-brim schedule makes all those convenient restaurants especially tempting, but experts say getting children involved in cooking is one of the best ways to teach them how to eat, as well as pique their interest in new foods. “Make it an adventure,” says Jessi Walter, founder of the cooking classes group Taste Buds. Young children can hunt for ingredients in cupboards, help stir soups, count noodles and beans going into a dish, or wash fruits and vegetables. Husking corn is an especially popular summer activity perfect for young kids. When they get a bit older, introduce them to chopping and other cooking techniques with a plastic knife. Aside from enjoying some great family time, the chances of your child trying a new food, be it the cheese they sliced, the string beans they washed, or the lentils they put in a soup, go up significantly.

“Cooking is the number one way to get kids eating healthier,” says Walter. “We find in our classes all the time that the more kids cook, the likelier they are to eat. Even if it’s something as simple as basil, you can give them a few leaves to rip up and they’ll be likelier to eat it later.

When they see the green, they’ll know what it is, and they’ll be proud of themselves for helping prepare it.”

Sometimes even the most adventurous of young ones go through a picky eating phase. As stressful as it may be, don’t give up or give in.

“The most important thing is to not get frustrated and keep trying to offer variety, rather than succumb to what your child only likes to eat.

That reinforces the pickiness,” says Lauren Slayton of FoodTrainers.

While it’s okay to offer them the stuff they really love, introduce new foods on the table whenever you can. “Continue presenting the food. Repeat trials can sometimes give you a breakthrough,” she adds. They may not eat zucchini the first time it’s placed on the table in front of them, but they might try a bite when you put it out again a few weeks later.

While it’s easier said than done, you should also avoid becoming too stressed (or obsessed) if the kids want to eat the same foods every day.

“Don’t judge what they’re eating by what they eat in day. Judge by what they eat in week,” Intuition Nutrition founder Tracy Gary says. “I think that people show they’re concerned and it becomes a power dynamic.”

When your child does eat well, you can reinforce his or her healthy eating with rewards, like the opportunity to help with dinner plans or choose a new recipe to buy ingredients for at the store. At the same time, be sure the dishes they do love to chow down on are made with the best ingredients around. “If your toddler is on a pancake kick, use quinoa to make flour and top them with fresh strawberries,” Gary says.

Taking a moment to rethink everyday foods can lead to some great new recipe ideas and additions.

Shop Till They Drop

Fit Focus: Food As Fuel

And don’t just limit them to the kitchen – getting kids involved with grocery shopping will also get them thinking about food. “I turn

Focusing on the body is another great strategy for getting your kids to think about food as fuel. Help kids get in tune with their bodies and learn

Get Them In The Kitchen

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www.newyorkfamily.com

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to recognize when they feel full, what being hungry feels like, and what happens when they eat. Avoid big words like “nutrition” or “carbohydrates” and talk about how food helps their bodies grow and stay strong.

“I talk to young kids and preschoolers about how things work. Kids are interested in it. Kids understand. If you say, ‘An orange is going to help your boo boo go away faster,’ that’s so exciting to them,” Slayton says.

While it’s great to steer your kids toward thinking about how food affects their bodies, it’s crucial to keep your own relationship with food out of the picture. If you’re keeping an eye on your weight, there’s no need to mention calorie counting to your kids. You can, however, encourage them to read ingredient lists to teach them the difference between real and processed foods.

“It’s important to try to separate your own thoughts about food and weight from your children,” says Greebel. “A child needs healthy, nutrientdense food in order to grow and really flourish.” So ditch the low-calorie, diet foods when your kids are around—they shouldn’t be eating them.

Ideally, try to eat the same foods you’re giving your kids. It’s the best way to make sure they have an appropriate relationship with food.

Raising a kid with food sense doesn’t have to be overly complicated or rigid. What it comes down to is gently encouraging a healthy, daily interest in food and cooking.

“In families, having an open dialogue is best,” says Walter. “Get your child involved.”

Our TOp picks FOr kid-Friendly resTauranTs, cOOking classes, TOys & games, cOOkbOOks and greenmarkeTs eaT: The Upper East Side’s Candle Café offers farmto-table organic vegan fare, like grilled seitan skewers and pizza made with tapioca cheese and truffle tomato sauce. For more information, visit candlecafe.com. learn: Offering private at-home cooking classes, parties for kids and summer cooking camp, Home Cooking New York teaches essential kitchen skills to children of all ages. Similarly, Taste Buds has cooking events for families and kids, including semester and holiday classes, summer camps and birthday parties. For more information, visit homecookingny.com and tastebudscook.com. play: With an old-fashioned icebox, stainless-steel sink and stovetop oven, Pottery Barn’s Kid’s Red Retro Kitchen Collection is a great way to encourage a playful curi- osity in food and cooking. For more information, visit potterybarnkids.com. read: Perfect for novice cooks, Easy Meals to Cook with Kids: Healthy, Family-Friendly Recipes from Around the World by Julie Negrin includes many vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free dishes. For more information, visit julienegrin.com. sHOp: Visit one of the city’s local markets—from the one at Union Square to the 97th Street Greenmarket—for delicious offerings and to spark your child’s culinary curiosity. For more information, visit grownyc.org.

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163 Exterior St. Ph. (212)-222-4880 Fax (718)-993-2188

(212)-222-4880 www.paddedwagon.com

www.newyorkfamily.com

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6/24/11 5:13 PM

THE

GUIDE:BIRTHDAYS

Chelsea Piers ©Scott McDermott

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BASICS Everything You Need To Know About Planning The Special Day

BY KELLY FARRELL HOT SPOT The decision between throwing a birthday bash at home or at a venue like a gym or ice rink can be daunting. A home celebration can be more relaxed, especially for a young child who is not yet comfortable in new environments, says seasoned NYC party planner Linda Kaye.

For the older set, an outdoor location may be your best bet, as children in grade school and up tend to have higher expectations when it comes to the entertainment and thrill level (rock climbing, anyone?).

Nevertheless, Kaye says, be guided by your child’s personality and do what you think will make them (and you) the most content when the big day arrives.

BE OUR GUEST Stressed about a small venue and can’t decide who to ultimately invite to the shindig? If your child is part of a big classroom and you can’t invite the entire class, try to invite all the children of the same gender. If that’s still too many then limit the party to three other guests, suggests Wendy Levey, Director of Epiphany

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Community Nursery School. If you don’t keep it very quaint or cast an extremely wide net, feelings are bound to get hurt.

R.S.V.P. Invitations run the gamut—from low-cost websites such as cocodot and Paperless Post, which provide instantaneous customization options, to more costly (but incredibly cute) options like Tiny Prints, Love, Laura Gifts, and Blacker and Koobi. A word of advice? Plan ahead. Levey suggests that invitations should be sent at least three weeks in advance to avoid conflicts with other kid’s parties. If your child is in school, it would be wise to look at the class list to see who else has a pending celebration and consult with the parents regarding party dates. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

STOCK UP When decorating for a birthday party, sticking to a theme is essential, says Rosie Weissbart, Owner of the Upper East Side party supply store State News. She notes that peace signs and tie-dye themed paper supplies currently rank as popular options.

Weissbart adds that balloons can make or

break a party’s decor, so try Mylar balloons to avoid the risk of choking with young children. Spice up an oldie but a goodie by using piñatas as decorations (hanging or stationary) as opposed to a party activity.

ENTERTAIN ME Each child’s dream party may look a little different, but in a city like New York there is an entertainment choice for every kind of kid—from clowns to animal husbandry. For the budding ballerina, try a Twinkle Party (twinklepartyfun.com) where your child and her guests can participate in an interactive classical ballet story, learn dance moves and get crafty—all led by a dancer clad in a traditional Russian tutu. Dress-up tutus can be purchased for the guests, who can keep them as favors too. If your child is a little more adventurous (and sporty), Chelsea Piers may be the place for his birthday extravaganza.

The field house offers birthday party packages in everything from gymnastics to rock climbing to the “Ultimate Tykes Challenge” that includes a field day-esque theme complete with potato sack races, tug-of-war and an over-sized sports-themed moon bounce. www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 4:28 PM

Birthday resource directory GOOD EATS Kids are easy eaters, so don’t try to reinvent the wheel when it comes to party food—keep it simple with a few pizza pies! Just be sure to have an eye out for children allergic to gluten or other ingredients (like nuts or dairy). For parents, your options for party fare are more open. If the celebration isn’t during a normal meal time, you can always put out chips, veggies and dip (pita and hummus are go-to pleasers) to keep adults satisfied. Or if you’re looking for something more upscale, you can use a local catering hub such as Eli’s or Agata & Valentina.

Tyrannasaurus-rex ©AMNH/C.

SAY CHEESE With all the munchkins milling around (resulting in instant perma-grin), you’ll want to make sure that someone is there to capture all of those adorable moments on film. Professional photographers in the NYC area like Heidi Green and Suzanne Cohen specialize in snapping children in their natural environments. But if a pro is beyond your budget, be sure to have a trusty friend or family member in charge of the party camera for the day, and keep extra batteries on hand in case of emergency!

IT’S ALL GOOD Goodie bags are meant to be fun, small tokens of appreciation for attending a birthday party so don’t go overboard. Companies like Oriental Trading offer large, inexpensive variety packs (tiny trinkets galore!) to fill gift bags.

Kaye recommends linking them to the party theme or to the current season, like a toy dinosaur if you party down at the American Museum of Natural History (a benefit of a contributor level membership) or a personalized sand pail and shovel if you celebrate during the summer.

PIECE OF CAKE For some, a birthday cake is the pinnacle of the party. For others, it’s a treat the children will devour in seconds. Yet there’s little question about the presence of this sweet and time-honored tradition. A cake can be homemade, bought at a supermarket (like Food Emporium or Gristedes) or custommade by bakeries like Make My Cake in Harlem. Looking for a different approach this year? Linda Kaye, author of the Bake-a-Cake Party Book, suggests making the cake into a party in and of itself by letting guests bake (with oven guidance, of course) and decorate—taking care of both the dessert and the entertainment components of the party. www.newyorkfamily.com

UltimateGuideBIRTHDAYS_0711.indd 69

Venues 14th street Y 344 east 14th street 212-780-0800 14streety.org 74th st. MAGIC 510 east 74th street 212-737-2989 74magic.com 92nd street Y 1395 Lexington Avenue 212-415-5500 92y.org 300 new York Pier 60/23rd & West side Highway 212-835-2695 threehundred.com Alice’s Tea Cup Various locations 212-734-4832 aliceteacup.com American Girl Place

212-410-9140 balletacademyeast.com Big Daddy’s Various locations in Manhattan 212-717-2020 bigdaddysnyc.com Bronx Zoo 2300 southern Boulevard 718-367-1010 bronxzoo.com Brooklyn Boulders 575 Degraw street, Brooklyn 347-834-9066 brooklynboulders.com Build-A-Bear Workshop 565 Fifth Avenue 212-871-7080 buildabear.com Camp Broadway 336 West 37th street, suite 460 212-575-2929 campbroadway.com

609 Fifth Avenue at 49th st.

Carnival

877-247-5223

222 West 44th street

americangirl.com

212-680-0012 carnivalnyc.com

American Museum of natural History Central Park West at 79th st.

212-769-5100 amnh.org

Central Park Zoo east side between 63rd and 66th streets 212-439-6500 centralparkzoo.com

Applause nYC

Chelsea Piers

Various locations in Manhattan

West 23rd street and

212-717-0703

the Hudson River

applauseny.com

212-336-6518 chelseapiers.com

apple seeds 10 West 25th street 212-792-7590 ext. 208 appleseedsnyc.com

Children’s Museum of the Arts 182 Lafayette street 212-274-0986 cmany.org

Art Farm in the City

Children’s Museum

419 east 91st street

of the east end

212-410-3117

376 Bridgehampton/

theartfarms.org

sag Harbor Turnpike 631-537-8250, cmee.org

Asphalt Green 555 east 90th street

Children’s Museum of Manhattan

212-369-8890

212 West 83rd street (between

asphaltgreen.org

Amsterdam and Broadway) 212-721-1223 ext. 219, cmom.org

Ballet Academy east 1651 Third Avenue July 2011 | New York Family

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Citibabes 52 Mercer Street, Third Floor

The Early Ear

Karma Kids Yoga

Madame Tussaud’s

1-800-697-0107, citibabes.com

Various locations in Manhattan

104 West 14th Street, Second Floor

234 West 42nd Street

212-877-7125, theearlyear.com

646-638-1444, karmakidsyoga.com

212-512-9600 ext. 607, nycwax.com

47-32 32nd Place, Long Island City

Fantasma Magic

Kick & Play

Make Meaning

718-505-6230, cityicepavilion.com

421 Seventh Avenue, Second Floor

Various locations

329 Columbus Avenue

212-244-3633

212-877-5425, kickandplay.com

212-362-0350, makemeaning.com

Kids At Art

Manhattan Movement & Arts

431 East 73rd Street

Center

212-410-9780, kidsatartnyc.com

248 West 60th Street

City Ice Pavilion

City Treehouse

or call Donna at 917-903-7563

129A West 20th Street

fantasmamagic.com

212-255-2050, citytreehouse.com FAO Schwarz Fifth Avenue Color Me Mine

767 5th Avenue

92 Reade Street

212-644-9400, fao.com Galli Group

212-488-8800, kidsatworknyc.com

212-731-0668, galli-group.com

606 Columbus Avenue 212-721-0090

Gymboree

columbuspreschoolandgym.com

Various locations in Manhattan

Cozy’s Cuts for Kids

125 West 14th Street 212-912-2300, ymcanyc.org

Manhattan and Brooklyn 1520 York Avenue

Various locations in Manhattan 212-729-1667, creativeplayforkids.com Dashing Diva Various locations 212-228-9999, dashingdiva.com

McBurney YMCA Various locations in

Gymtime Rhythm & Glues

Creative Play for Kids

212-766-1104, manhattanyouth.org

212-744-4900, kisnyc.com

gymboreeclasses.com

cozycutsforkids.com

212-831-6626, craftstudionyc.com

120 Warren Street

Various locations

Kidville

212-585-COZY,

1657 Third Avenue

Kids In Sports

877-496-5327 Various locations in Manhattan

The Craft Studio

212-861-7732, gymtime.net

212-362-3923, kidville.com

Hands On!

877-543-9558, klub4kidz.com

212-339-9915, handson4music.com

Let’s Dress Up!

Harlem Lanes

212-879-0956

Moomah

2116 Adam Clayton

uppereast.com/letsdressup.html

161 Hudson Street 212-226-0345, moomah.com

Powell Boulevard, 3rd Floor 212-678-BOWL

Liberty Science Center

harlemlanes.net

222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City

Heartland Brewery

201-200-1000, lsc.org The Little Gym

646-495-2015,

heartlandbrewery.com

2121 Broadway

daveandbusters.com

212-799-1225 Hi Art!

tlgupperwestsideny.com

227 West 29th Street, Studio 4R 212-209-1552, hiartkids.com

Little Shop of Crafts Various locations in Manhattan

Discovery Programs

Home Cooking New York

212-717-6636 (East Side)

251 West 100th Street, 212-749-8717,

236 West 26th Street

212-531-2723 (West Side)

discoveryprograms.com

917-803-6857, homecookingny.com

littleshopny.com

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Loop of the Loom

Pier 86, West 46th Sreet and 12th Ave.

227 East 87th Street

212-245-0072

212-722-2686, loopoftheloom.com

Various locations 917-690-0789, dramazonenyc.com Dylan’s Candy Bar

intrepidmuseum.org Lucky Strike

1011 Third Avenue 646-735-0078

The JCC in Manhattan

624-660 West 42nd Street

dylanscandybar.com

334 Amsterdam Avenue

646-829-0170, bowlluckystrike.com

646-505-4444, jccmanhattan.org East Side Tae Kwon Do

Madame Alexander’s

325 East 65th Street

Jodi’s Gym

615 West 131st Street, 6th Floor

212-755-5982

244 East 84th Street

212-283-5900

eastsidetaekwondo.com

212-772-7633, jodisgym.com

madamealexander.com

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212-727-2703, minichefnyc.com

345 East 85th Street

646-366-0235

Dramazone

Mini Chef NYC Various locations

Various locations in Manhattan

Various locations

212-586-7425, familydisco.com

888-WE-JOUST, medievaltimes.com

159 North 4th Street, Brooklyn

234 West 42nd Street, 3rd Floor

Club LQ, 511 Lexington Avenue

Medieval Times 149 Polito Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ

Klub4Kidz

Dave & Buster’s

Deb’s Family Disco

Manhattan Youth Downtown Community Center

347 West 36th Street Columbus Pre-School and Gym

manhattanmovement.com

242 West 27th St, Suite 4A

212-374-1710 tribeca.colormemine.com

212-787-1178 Kids At Work

My Gym Various locations 800-4MGYMS, my-gym.com Museum of the City of New York 1220 Fifth Avenue 212-534-1672, mcny.org New York Hall of Science 47-01 111th Street, Queens 718-699-0005, nyscience.org New York Kids Club Various locations in Manhattan 212-721-4400, nykidsclub.com New York Party Kids 1584 York Avenue 917-331-6382, nypartykids.com New York Transit Museum Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street, Brooklyn 718-694-1600 mta.info.mta/museum

continued on pg 74 www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 4:29 PM

We carry Mattel, Lego, Fisher Price and Creativity for Kids, etc.

Sticker Books, Coloring Books, Work Books & Story Books PLENTY OF

OFFICE & SCHOOL SUPPLIES 1243 Third Ave. New York, NY 10021 Tel: 212-879-8076

ENDLESS

CRAFTS 112 East 86th St. New York, NY 10028 Tel: 212-831-8010

THE

GUIDE:BIRTHDAYS

THAT’S A WRAP A Foolproof Guide To Gift-Giving For Every Age

2

4

3

1

BY CHANDNI RATHOD unning from one birthday party to the next? We chatted with toy aficionados who sell, study and test playthings (for a living!) about their top gift picks. From tots to tweens, we’ve got you covered.

R

5

4. State News Recommends Pencil Toppers (4-Pack) by Kachooz

The whimsical Kachooz are tiny fuzzy creatures that sit happily atop your No 2’s. Spin the pencil and watch their hair frizz into silly shapes. $15.98, 212-831-8010

NEWBORN 1. The New Toy Recommends

AGES 8-10

Silly Stripes Gift Set by Gund Baby Give tiny ones a sense of security! The machine-washable plush set (oh-so huggable) includes a teether, a wrist or ankle rattle and a super soft blankie.

Choose from a frog, monkey or duck. $29.99, thenewtoy.com

5. eBeanstalk Recommends

Toys "R" Us Recommends Activity Spiral Stroller Toy – Made With Love by Mamas & Papas A must-have accessory, with dangling toys, to keep little ones grinning—easily attaches to strollers, infant carriers and cribs. Additional features such as rattles or squeakers will provide a fun twist to traveling and time at home. $24.99, toysrus.com

the ReCon Programmable Rover by SmartLab Toys Where play meets learning, the programmable ReCon 6.0 can navigate specified courses to deliver a treat to a pet or guard a bedroom. Learn basic operations and teach perspective engineers how to create their own commands. $69.99, ebeanstalk.com

Toys "R" Us Recommends Sizzlin’ Cool Water Warriors Cricket (2-Pack) by Buzz Bee Toys Take water fun to a whole new level. The air pressure Cricket blasters shoot up to 38 feet so kids can engage in fierce but friendly water fights! Each toy holds up to 14 oz of water. $9.99, toysrus.com

AGES 3+ 2. State News Recommends

EDITOR’S PICK

Citiblocs 100-pc Set Encourage eco-fun with these high quality wooden blocks, cut from certified renewable forests in New Zealand, which will inspire both traditional and modern design. No glue, snaps, connectors or magnets required. $23.98, 212-831-8010

New York Family Recommends

The New Toy Recommends

world—an expansion of the silver screen. Recommended for ages 6-11 years, up to four players. $49.99, disneystore.com -Kat Harrison, Associate Editor

Trunki + Stickers by Melissa and Doug Have kids pack (and ride on) the adorable Trunki—for family travels both near and far. The customizable suitcase (thanks to cool stickers) is the perfect storage solution for playthings. Designed to meet airline carry-on requirements, the Trunki glides on wheels and has a slick shoulder strap for easy handling. $34.99, thenewtoy.com

AGES 5-7 3. eBeanstalk Recommends Morphibians Explorer by Kid Galaxy Not your average remote-controlled car. The Morphibians Explorer moves by land and water, thanks to the vehicle’s powerful four-wheel drive. Great for indoors, outdoors, puddles and pools—kids will love the 4x4 turf-digging tires and the wake-forming paddle. $32.99, ebeanstalk.com

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Cars 2: The Video Game for Wii Strap on your seatbelt (come on, safety first!) and choose your favorite Cars personality, from adorable Mater to newcomer Holley Shiftwell, to train as a spy.

Flip, spin, sidestep and loop-de-loop in this virtual

OUR EXPERT TOY PANEL: James Geisan is the founder of The New Toy (thenewtoy.com), a website featuring video reviews of high-quality toys.

Brian Gordon is the Co-Founder of eBeanstalk (ebeanstalk.com), an online toy store that carefully matches products to a child’s developmental stage.

Rosie Weissbart is the toy buyer and owner of State News. Visit their two Upper East Side locations.

Toys“R”Us can be found online (toysrus.com) or at their flagship store in Times Square. www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 4:29 PM

“Intergalactic Superstars!”- CBS TV

Family Fun for Ages 5-105!

Telecharge.com 212.239.6200 Also Available

*

The musical sensation that’s out of this world

Family 4-packs Visit BrodwayOffers.com or call 212.947.8894 and use code: VPFOUR4

Seeing is believing

Westside Theatre, 407 West 43rd Street (between 9th & 10th Aves.)

VocaPeopleNYC.com *Subject to availability. Other restrictions apply.

12302Voca_NY.family 1

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6/22/11 1:05:44 PM

6/24/11 11:48 AM

continued from pg 70

Parteaz NYC Tea Parties

973-447-0616, nyc.parteaz.com Poloppo 877-396-4863, poloppo.com Poppyseed Pre-Nursery 424 West End Avenue 212-877-7614 Queens County Farm Museum 73-50 Little Neck Parkway 718-347-3276, queensfarm.org Reebok Sports Club/NY 160 Columbus Avenue 212-362-6800

Sportime at Randall’s Island

Wollman Skating Rink

212-427-6150, sportimeny.com

Central Park, 212-439-6900 wollmanskatingrink.com

Starmites Kids Parties 212-473-3409, kids-parties-nyc.com

351 East 74th Street and First Ave. Steps On Broadway 212-874-2410, stepsnyc.com

1296 Lexington Avenue, Suite East 6A 917-533-4201 storytimebydesign.com Super Soccer Stars Various locations in Manhattan,

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

supersoccerstars.com

212-398-3133, ripleysnewyork.com Robot Galaxy 1514 Broadway at 44th Street 877-7TH-RING; robotgalaxy.com Rockefeller Center 47th and 50th Streets between Fifth and Seventh Avenues

the Hamptons, 212-877-7171

TADA! 15 West 28th St, 3rd floor 212-252-1619, tadatheater.com Taste Buds 109 West 27th Street, 10th Floor 212-242-2248, tastebudscook.com Three Little Birds Music 266 East 78th Street

212-332-7654, patinagroup.com

212-744-0404, tlbmusic.com

The Scholastic Store

Tie Dye Town

557 Broadway 212-343-6166, store.scholastic.com Scribble Press 1624 First Avenue 212-288-2928, scribblepress.com

917-975-3651, tiedyetown.com Tiger Shulmann’s Karate 39 West 19th Street 888-303-6408, tsk.com Twinkle Party 646-455-8311, twinklepartyfun.com

Slate 54 West 21st Street 212-989-0096, slate-ny.com Soccer by Coach Fher

Uno Chicago Grill Various locations, unos.com

917-650-3008, coachfher.com

Victorian Gardens At Wollman Rink

Sony Wonder Technology Lab

victoriangardensnyc.com

550 Madison Avenue at 56th Street, 212-833-8100 sonywondertechlab.com SPiN New York 48 East 23rd Street

in Central Park, 212-982-2229,

Watson Adventures Scavenger Hunts Various locations 877-Go-Hunt, watsonadventures.com

212-982-8802, spinyc.com

West Side Taekwondo

Sports Club/LA

212-663-3998, westsidetkd.com

Various locations in Manhattan 212-355-5100, thesportsclubla.com

700 Columbus Avenue

West Side YMCA 5 West 63rd Street 212-912-2600, ymcanyc.org

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UltimateGuideBIRTHDAYS_0711.indd 74

Yogi Beans 131 West 86th Street

StoryTime By Design

Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and

234 West 42nd Street

646-457-7527

2121 Broadway

reeboksportsclubny.com

Odditorium

Xtreme Rhythmic Academy

212-787-9642, yogibeans.com

Mystery and Mayhem 212-260-2295

ENTERTAINERS Acoustic Corral 631-921-1491, mleyden@yahoo.com Art-n-Orbit 212-579-7634 artnoribit.com/newyork Company’s Coming 212-260-3036 companyscomingent.com Crazy Daisy Clowns 718-278-4871 crazydaisyclowns.com Fantasy Face Painting 917-620-7006 Joanie Leeds Music for Kids 718-930-7434, joanieleeds.com Josh Beckerman 516-527-6659, joshbeckerman.com Mad Science 888-623-3724 madscience.org/manhattan Magic Al 516-677-0883, magic-al.com

mysteryandmayhem.com NYC Face Art 908-725-1213 freewebs.com/nycfaceart NY Sketches 646-452-9946, nysketches.com Sammie and Tudie 212-828-5386 imaginationplayhouse.com Silly Billy 212-645-1299, sillybillymagic.com Starmites Children’s Parties 212-473-3409 kids-parties-nyc.com Talking Hands Theater 413-253-0065, puppetree.com.

Teri Tales 212-780-3473 The Hoop Wizard 917-754-2486, hoopwizard.com

PARTY SUPPLIES & FAVORS Crystal Party Supplies 4306 Broadway

Magical Dave

212-543-9463

917-886-6364, magicaldave.com Dinosaur Hill Magician Michael Chamberlin

306 East 9th Street

212-767-9353, mikecmagic.com

212-473-5850, dinosaurhill.com

Mark Z-Man

Party City

646-785-7171, markzman.com

38 West 14th Street 212-271-7310, partycity.com

Miyachi Masters 516-801-4949, myachi.com

The Children’s General Store 168 East 91st Street, 212-426-4479

Moogie 908-725-1213, moogieland.com

State News 1243 Third Avenue, 112 East 86th St 212-879-8076

www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 4:29 PM

Partials_0711.indd 21

6/24/11 11:48 AM

in

Neighborhood the

Dream homes

What Better Way to Get a sense of the marketplace than a Cross-section of recently-Listed Family real estate

300 Riverside Drive, Unit 7AC

upper West siDe On the corner of Riverside Drive lies a spacious 10-room abode complete with breathtaking views of the Hudson River, Riverside Park and the George Washington Bridge.

Originally two apartments, they were combined to create a balanced living and entertaining space, complete with an open living and dining room and four spacious bedrooms.

The home also boasts three full baths, a media room, an oversized eat-in kitchen and a large mud room. Old world detail has been preserved throughout, including high, beamed ceilings, oversized windows and hardwood floors.

Asking Price: $3,995,000 Maint/CC: $3,459 Agent: Deanna Kory, The Corcoran Group, 212-937-7011

88 Morningside Avenue, Unit 12C

harLem Located uptown, this condo offers breathtaking views of Morningside Park, Central Park, and the Manhattan skyline.

This 1,268 sq. foot home features three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Oversized, wall-to-wall windows create an open atmosphere. The kitchen has a built-in dishwasher and microwave. This residence also includes sizeable closets and a washer/ dryer. The hi-rise Post-War building includes a doorman, roof garden, attended lobby, health club and storage space.

Asking Price: $880,000 Maint/CC: $1,404 Agent: Felicia De Chabris, Halstead Property, 212-381-6513

200 West Houston Street, Unit 3C

422 East 72nd Street, Unit 7A

upper east siDe This 1,880 square-foot Oxford Condo features a renovated kitchen, oversized windows, and an airy balcony, all with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. The master bedroom has an ensuite marble bath with Jacuzzi and three closets. The awardwinning Oxford building has unbeatable services, including a health club, indoor swimming pool, 24-hour doorman, concierge, an outdoor sundeck, a basketball court and garage.

Asking Price: $2,295,000 Maint/CC: $2,090 Agent: Jacky Teplitzky, Prudential Douglas Elliman, 212-891-7263

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New York Family | July 2011

INTHENEIGHBORHOOD_0711.indd 76

GreenWiCh viLLaGe At the junction of Greenwich Village and SoHo, this enormous duplex is centrally located amidst the best shopping and restaurants. With 10-foot ceilings, tons of windows, and great light, this flexible space is perfect as a 3- or 4-bedroom. Features include a wood burning fireplace, an open kitchen, walk-in closets, a spacious living room, and three full bathrooms. Skylight penetrations are permitted and can be added for supplemental light in this bright apartment. The building is a well-run and intimate coop.

Asking Price: $2,199,000 Maint/CC: $4,148 Agent: Lisa Lippman, Brown Harris Stevens, 212-588-5606

www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 3:28 PM

936 Fulton Street, Unit 2A

clinton hill, brooklyn

45 West 67th Street, Unit 6C

upper west side

In Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill, this high-ceilinged, exposed brick townhouse offers decorative fireplaces amidst its warmth and charm. With a spacious and sunny living room, washer/dryer, new stainless open kitchen, and two modern baths, this unit is perfect for hosting small dinner parties.

Ideal for a new family, this space offers split bedrooms for privacy. Just steps to the C train, shops and restaurants.

Asking Price: $549,000 Maint/CC: $298 Agent: Laura Denise Milkowski, Brown Harris Stevens, 212317-3662

Conveniently located between Central Park and Lincoln Center, this beautifully-renovated two bedroom can be found in one of the most desired condominiums on the UWS—including full service 24-hour doorman. With two bathrooms, Stainless steel appliances, Pietra Cardosa countertops, and custom moldings throughout, this unit is ideal for a small family craving outdoor time. 373 square feet of private outdoor space with water and electric makes this home complete.

Asking Price: $1,295,000 Maint/CC: $1,000 Agent: Ryan Serhant, Nest Seekers, 646-957-2462

130 Water Street, Unit 12D

442 West 23rd Street, Unit C

financial district This spacious and thoroughly renovated duplex is a oneof-a-kind home in the Financial District. Two bedrooms and two baths, 15-foot ceilings, central AC throughout, new wood flooring and partial river views are a few of its many highlights. The only unit with a private roof deck, this home has 650 square feet of outdoor oasis complete with water and electric. A stone’s throw from all of the South Street Seaport attractions and the majority of NYC’s subway lines, the location is unbeatable for young professionals. Spacious, quiet and comfortable, this home offers full-time doormen, laundry on every floor, common storage and is pet-friendly.

Asking Price: $1,295,000 Maint/CC: $1,450 Agent: Ryan Serhant, Nest Seekers, 646-957-2462

www.newyorkfamily.com

INTHENEIGHBORHOOD_0711.indd 77

chelsea In the historic Fitzroy Townhouse complex, this third-floor coop affords radiant southern sunlight and enchanting views of the lush gardens. This unique home is beautifully designed for gracious living and large-scale entertaining.

The centerpiece is the grand living room that leads to a terrace spanning the full width of the living room. An open chef ’s kitchen is adorned with black-honed granite countertops and maple cabinetry. Amenities include two original marble wood-burning fireplaces, multiple built-ins, Thiel built-in speakers, expansive closet space and a washer/dryer.

Asking Price: $1,650,000 Maint/CC: $1,298 Agent: Mark Schoenfeld, Corcoran, 212-941-2510

July 2011 | New York Family

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6/24/11 3:28 PM

the

L ast w o r d

Bye, Bye,

when A Son Gives Up hand-holding, It’s More than Just Letting Go

BY MarY DiPalerMo And so, it happened. The day I was dreading. My eight-yearold, dimple-faced boy dropped my hand yesterday as we approached his school.

It wasn’t as obvious a drop as my older son gave me when he was that age. I think he feigned a stretch or a shrug or a jacketadjustment, when he decided he was too old to hold his mother’s hand in public. Whenever I tried to re-grasp his hand (thinking the loss of it must have been some kind of mistake), he kept it flat and lifeless like a fishmonger’s filet, with a decided lack of reciprocation. I got the message—over and out.

At that time, I had a four-year-old and a baby in a stroller, so losing hold of my firstborn’s hand didn’t feel so traumatic. In fact, it probably felt freeing. Losing hold of my lastborn’s hand doesn’t feel as freeing, though. It feels like the end of an era. It feels like rain.

As a woman who loves children (especially her own) I should, ironically, consider myself lucky. I had close to 15 years of holding little hands in mine. Walking my kids to school in the morning (except, I admit, for meltdown mornings) has given me some of the sweetest imprints of my life. I’ve loved the thoughts exchanged, the observations, the seriousness, the excitement of it all.

Over the years, I’ve learned of mad crushes: “I get so nervous when he stands in our group at recess. Do you think that means I love him?” I’ve learned of hidden hurts: “I really miss Uncle Gary. I try not to think of him getting sick. It makes me so sad.” I’ve learned of how much we mean to each other: “I’m really glad you’re my mom, Mom.” All this while holding hands across a sequence of blocks.

Now that I’m down to just one—the older two make their way to school without me—I think I’m walking slower. We never rush.

We ease our way down Broadway. I’ll stop and fix his head of toolong, unruly blond hair. He’s often late. We’ve even been known to stop for donuts along the way and sit in the tiny shop window, people-watching until our last crumbs are consumed. This sort of

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behavior would never have happened a few years back.

It’s probably melodrama now that makes me feel like losing a hand-hold means losing a life phase. And yet, it’s kind of true. My high-school son is off on his own more times than he’s home with us. On the rare occasions I catch hold of his hand, the size and feel of it shocks me. When did he grow up? My darling, middle-school daughter, who has a busier social calendar than her older brother, will grab my hand, from time to time, but it’s fleeting. Usually it’s just for emphasis, like when she’s retelling a day’s highlight or gushing about a new pair of shoes.

“Losing hold of my lastborn’s hand doesn’t feel as freeing. It feels like the end of an era.

It feels like rain.”

And now my little guy is leaving. Well, he’s only in third grade, so he’s not going anywhere physically (not even to sleep-away camp), but he is making his move emotionally. There’s probably a very wise parenting expert out there who would tell me this is all good. It’s developmentally sound. But I think there are generations of parents before me who would agree that this moment really stings. The unclasping of the hand is yet another milestone. It’s what happens—it’s what has to happen—for your child to be able to walk away and become who he’s meant to become.

I think I might cry. Or have an ice cream. I’ll be that woman, without a child by her side, at the Mr. Softee truck on 89th & Broadway.

Mary DiPalermo, mom to an elementary-, a middle-, and a highschooler, writes and shares her special parenting perspective on New York Family's blog "Parenting in Progress." She lives on the Upper West Side. www.newyorkfamily.com

6/24/11 3:48 PM

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