New York Family August 1, 2011 by New York Family

New Parents Mega Expo

AUGUST 2011

See page 34

August 2011 Established 1986

SUMMER’S

WWW.NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

LAST HURRAH BEACH READS S GRILL EATS S FAMILY FESTS S

SMART

APPS FOR SMART KIDS NEW YORK FAMILY

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THE

of POPE

PREGNANCY

TV STAR, DESIGNER, MATERNITY GURU: THE RISE OF ROSIE POPE

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“oPEN WIDE

AND SAY

Woo ooF” F”

It’s trust. It’s a familiar face. It’s a vet who treats you and your pet like family. That’s the comfort of the Animal Hospitals at Bideawee. State-of-the-art facilities and highly trained veterinarians are part of the services and support we bring to help pets and the people who love them build lasting relationships. Get to know our animal hospitals, and all we offer at bideawee.org or call 1.866-262-8133. animal people for people who love animals™

faLL 2011

Clothing.ShoeS.aCCeSSorieS

shop online

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THINK OUTSIDE

THE (SAND) BOX ; )

SUMMER FUN IS NO-SWEAT AT MAKE MEANING. COME IN AND COOL OFF WITH CREATIVITY. LITTLE HANDS, BIG IMAGINATIONS. EVERYONE CAN CREATE OUR SUMMER-INSPIRED SOAPRIZE SOAPS AND CANDLESCAPE CANDLES. JUST A FEW OF THE ENDLESS WAYS TO HAVE FUN WITH CREATIVITY AT MAKE MEANING.

C an dlesc apes Soa prize s oa p

Bring in this ad before August 31st, 2011 and receive

A FREE GLITTER TATTOO!

At Make Meaning速, we provide everything you need to paint ceramics, create jewelry, make candles, mold luxury soap, design glass platters, throw a party, or just plain have a ball (of wax ; ) Still hungry? Our in-store cafe offers a delicious assortment of snacks, coffee and wine to keep the creative juices flowing. Stop by and shop our one-of-a-kind retail and gift shop or shop online at makemeaning.com.

Improve Up to TWO GRADE LEVELS! One-On-One Tutoring & 3 Week Summer Programs Grades Pre-K to 12 ✐ Reading comprehension & writing ✐ Multi-sensory math NSIVE 3 WEEK INTE OGRAMS: SUMMER PR

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✐ Phonics instruction & reading fluency ✐ State test preparation ✐ Study & organizational skills ✐ Orton-Gillingham based instruction ✐ Dyslexia & ADD programs ✐ Home tutoring available in NYC, Brooklyn, Queens, Westchester and New Jersey ✐ We accept Department of Education funding at the enhanced rate for special education students

EBL Coaching

212-249-0147 Dr. Emily Levy, Director www.eblcoaching.com

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

Birthday Parties

Play Group

Weekend Programs

Part-Time Pet

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Drop In

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 * Fashion Runway Shows Services for New Parents * Stroller Test Drive Track * Superstar Speaker Series * National and Local Press

Superstar Speakers:

Rosie Pope, Dr. Bob Sears, Liz Lange, Vickie Iovine Shop, Learn, and Explore with: Alliance Nursing NY, Asphalt Green, Babies R Us, Baby Breeza, Baby Buggy, Baby World, Boogie Wipes, Britax, Buy Buy Baby, Carnegie Hall, Cherry’s Pharmacy, Chicco, Cleanwell, Cloud B, Diaper Kind, Dorel Juvenile Group, Eastside Westside Music Together, Ella’s Kitchen, Episencial, Evenflo, Giggle, Gunapod, Happy Baby Food, Inglesina USA, Little Pim, Mabel’s Labels, Magnificent Baby, MAM Baby, Mind Over Matter, New York Life, Orbit Stroller, Plum Organics , Pour Deux Maternity, Prince Lionheart, Resource Furniture, Skip Hop, Smart Mom Jewelry, Smooth Parenting, Sprout Foods, Stonyfield, Synergy Health Products, Viacord, Working Solutions, Wooly Boo, Wrightson and Platt, Xytex and more...

For tickets and more info: Visit newparentsexpo.com Like us on Facebook

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Call Rebecca Martin 212 284 9732

Presented by

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inside

August 2011

38 FEATURES 38 | everything’s Coming Up rosie How “Pregnant in Heels” Star Rosie Pope Became The Mommy Maven Of The Moment v BaCk to sChool 43 Private vs. Public Two Perspectives On The Quality Of Education, The Money And Everything In Between 46 the Joy of shoPPing School Tools: From Locker Organizers To Lunch Sacks, Key Gear To Stock Up On Before The First Bell Rings 48 new school on the block One Of The Nation’s Most Successful Nursery School Franchises, The Goddard School, Takes On Manhattan 50 click and learn 15 Smart Apps For Smart Kids v sUmmer’s end 54 better beach books From The Quirky To The Provocative To The Hilarious, We’ve Got Your Genre Covered

32 56 grill Marks Feed Your Face (And The Family) With These Recipes From Our Yummy Delicious Blog 60 coMe one, coMe all Road Trip-Worthy Family Fests 64 the fit faMily Keeping Your Clan On The Health & Wellness Track colUmnS 14 | editor’s note The Most Relaxing Time 20 | it’s my party Birthday Celebrations At The Plaza Hotel, Dave & Buster’s, and The New York City Fire Museum 22 | a good idea When Kids Care: How To Foster Volunteerism And A Passion For Service From An Early Age 26 | a speCial plaCe CAUTION: Kids At Work! A Chelsea Studio For Arts And Music Hones In On The Importance Of Creative Exploration In Little Ones 28 | aCtivity of the month Why Chess?: How The Classic Board Game Is Enjoying A New Renaissance With Young Minds

32 | starting oUt Managing Milestones: 10 Tips From The Authors Of The Essential Guide to Baby’s First Year 34 | new parent mUst-haves Our Favorite Things: A Preview Of Noteworthy Products From New York Family’s Upcoming New Parents Expo 74 | the last word In Search Of A Helping Hand: A Psychologist Talks Through Her Unexpected Parenting Dilemma dEpARTmEnTS 16 | welCome to the family The New Parents Expo, two great giveaways and what’s happening at newyorkfamily.com 18 | BUzzworthy A private school admissions handbook, YouTube for kid critics, a nostalgia arts & crafts service, and more 68 | ten ideas Our monthly round-up of family fun in the city 70 | CUltUre for kids August’s best exhibits, performances and attractions for families

The cover: Clothing by Rosie Pope Maternity, Jewelry - her own, Hair and Makeup by Karina Montoya for FACE atelier, Photography by Thaddeus Harden (thaddeusharden.com), Shot on location at Conservatory Water in Central Park

New York Family | August 2011

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It takes work to fill these shoes. You work hard making your home a place of elegance and relaxation — raising the children, preparing gourmet meals, practically becoming a contractor during renovation. There comes a time you need assistance. Whether a Housekeeper, Personal Assistant, Private Chef, Nanny or Elder Care Expert, LifeWorx® will provide fully screened, skilled, reliable staff to improve the lifestyle you’ve built… all with superior customer service. Call us…

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The Diller-Quaile School of Music

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

Early Childhood Music Classes (Infants - 7 Years)

skrulwich @manhattanmedia.com Production MAnAger Mark Stinson

Music & Art Preschool Classes

mstinson @manhattanmedia.com

Instrument & Voice Lessons

dePuty Production MAnAgers

Orchestra, Chorus, Chamber Music & Suzuki Playing Classes

Jessica Balaschak jbalaschak@ manhattanmedia.com

Ed Johnson ejohnson @ manhattanmedia.com Photo editor Andrew Schwartz

High School Certificate Program

aschwartz@ manhattanmedia.com

Adult Programs & Teacher Training

contributing PhotogrAPhers

Concerts for All Ages

Heidi Green, Thaddeus Harden, Michael Jurick contributing writers Melanie Dostis, Kelly Farrell, Allegra Levine (Style), Gavriella Mahpour, Maria Riley, Nancy Ryerson, Elora Tocci

The Diller-Quaile School of Music 24 East 95th Street New York, NY 10128 212-369-1484 www.diller-quaile.org Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for York Family v.2.pdf Community New and Precollegiate Arts Schools

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R EL –

E I ’S

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

• Merrell air cushion • Cupped-sole hugstruction • Stickyy non-marking grippy sole

cFo/coo Joanne Harras jharras @ manhattanmedia.com Founding Publisher Barbara Witt director oF interActive MArketing And digitAl strAtegy Jay Gissen jgissen @manhattanmedia.com

Harry’s Shoes For Kids 2315 Broadway (between 83rd and 84th St) Tip Top Kids 149 W 72nd Street Orva Shoes 155 E 86th Street

Paragon Sports 867 Broadway (at 18th St) Lester’s of New York 1534 2nd Avenue (at 80th St)

New York Family | August 2011

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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. © 2011 Manhattan Media, llc | 79 Madison Avenue, 16th Floor, new york, ny 10016 | t: 212.268.8600 | f: 212.268.0577 www.manhattanmedia.com

www.newyorkfamily.com

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editor’s

NOTE

The Most Relaxing Time

One of my favorite moments in our interview is when Rosie talks about calming her own anxieties. “I was teasing my husband because he keeps telling me to do yoga, but having all that quiet [left me] much more anxious,” she says. “The most relaxing time is being with my kids.” At the end of August, I’m going on a long-awaited and much-needed family vacation with my wife and two children (ages 7 and 11), which will involve a considerable amount of road-tripping through some beauteous parts of Utah and Colorado. I plan to remember Rosie’s quote. What are you doing this month? Whatever your answer, our August issue is here for you with terrific round-ups of grilling recipes (page 56) and beach reads (page 54)—and a guide to crazy-fun summer festivals scattered about the North East (page 60) for those of you ready for a family road trip of your own. And as much as we’d like to hold the fall in abeyance forever, we gently ease into it with education-related stories on apps for learners (page 50), the appeal of

I proudly admit to having a hand in the first question our writer Megan Maxson put to Rosie Pope in this month’s cover interview on page 38: “You’ve been a ballerina, model, private detective, a neuroscience student at Columbia, and you’re now a mommy concierge and maternity store owner turned reality show personality. How did you end up taking this journey?” When I originally met Rosie a few years ago, she had already checked off all of those boxes except for her big new gig as the mom concierge at the center of Bravo’s “Pregnant in Heels.” Put when I first heard the news about the show earlier this year, I wasn’t surprised. Rosie is a fun, adventurous spirit who is also smart, kind and trustworthy— and you need all of that if you’re going to advise anxious and vulnerable expectant moms. . .while the cameras are rolling.

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chess (page 28), and the character-building wonders of making volunteerism a part of childhood (page 22). Finally, I offer a special shout-out to Julie Averill, of the Chelsea-based Kids At Work (page 26), one of our favorite earlychildhood educators now about to have a child of her own. A very happy August to all,

Eric MEssiNgEr EdiTOr emessinger@manhattanmedia.com

T HE L EON & G INA F ROMER

Park East Youth Enrichment Center Within the beautiful National Historic Landmark, Park East Synagogue, the Leon and Gina Fromer Park East Youth Enrichment Center offers an in-depth Jewish experience to youngsters who attend the finest private and public schools in New York City.

Hebrew Language Arts Prayer Skills & Synagogue Practices Jewish Holidays & Traditions Zionism & Israel

Special Programs: Shabbatonim Holiday Festivities Exciting Youth Programs

Classes begin for ages Kindergarten through 7th grade Registration Ongoing

Mondays 4:00–6:00 pm www.peyec.com 164 East 68th Street · New York · NY · 10065 Registration Ongoing

New York Family | August 2011

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Bus Service available from Neighborhood Schools Homework Clubs begin at 3:15 pm SmartBoards in each Classroom

Let your child discover their Jewish identity through

Music | Arts & Crafts | Mitzvah Projects Holiday Programs Shabbat Youth Activities

www.newyorkfamily.com

7/25/11 12:59 PM

Want to Learn Mandarin? Since 2004, The Dwight School has offered Mandarin classes beginning in kindergarten. Today, Mandarin is offered from pre-k through 12th grade. In 2008, Dwight became the first American independent school to establish a partner campus in China. Dwight advises and operates the Dual Diploma (Chinese and American) program at Capital Normal Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s High School in Beijing, the fourth ranked high school in the country. Students, faculty and alumni have already participated in a growing number of exchanges. In June 2011, the first group of fifty-eight Dwight students in China graduated, joining a global network of nearly 4,000 alumni. To learn more, visit www.dwight.edu/DSC or call 212.724.6360 x263.

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W co

TO T H E FA M I LY

CARNIVAL FOR A CAUSE

Rally up the fam and head to the Max Cure Foundation’s 3rd Annual Roar for a Cure Carnival on Saturday, August 20 to play carnival games, catch musical performances, chow down on snacks and spot celebs, all while raising money for pediatric cancer research. The Max Cure Foundation hopes to surpass last year’s total carnival fundraising: $400,000! This year’s event will be “A Roar for Katy” in memory of a Sag Harbor 12-year-old girl who passed away from cancer in December. Teach the tots about the value of supporting a great cause while having a day of fun in the Hamptons. For more information, visit maxcurefoundation.org.

THE NEW PARENTS EXPO

UPCOMING EVENTS

Attention new and expectant parents from the tri-state area! We look forward to seeing you at the New Parents Expo this fall on October 15 and 16 at Pier 92 in Manhattan. Featuring such renowned speakers as Vicki Iovine (author of The Girlfriends’ Guide to Pregnancy), Liz Lange (of Liz Lange Maternity), Rosie Pope (star of “Pregnant in Heels”), and Dr. Bob Sears (co-author of The Baby Book), the Expo will help parents make the most of an exciting new stage in life. Helping new moms and dads discover many of the best products in maternity, baby and toddler from national and local companies, the Expo will offer an inspiring menu of lectures, seminars and demonstrations from experts in the world of family and parenting. To learn more and to purchase tickets, visit newparentsexpo.com. (For more details, see page 34.)

CONTESTS & GIVEAWAYS

ON THE

W E

Our online classes guide is a hotspot for all the best in programs including art, cooking, sports, language, mommy & me classes, music, cultural enrichment…and the list goes on! From day classes to after-school offerings, we have something for everyone, from toddlers to teens. To make your web-surfing and classes-cruising a bit easier, the editors at New York Family have redesigned the page’s search engine to optimize your time online. Now you can easily hunt by class category or neighborhood. And with hundreds of listings, from martial arts to social skills, you’re bound to find something special for your little one, or yourself! Have a wonderful idea or suggestion for our classes guide? Please write to us at newyorkfamily@manhattanmedia.com.

WIN BANANAGRAMS GAMES

Summer picnics are a classic way to spend quality time with your family. Adding games into the mix totally ups the fun factor tenfold! To get you started, we are giving away our own picnic fruit basket set of BANANAGRAMS games. This 3 game prize-pack includes, the original BANANAGRAMS, PAIRS IN PEARS, in which players must race to make pairs of connecting words in matching patterns, and APPLETTERS, a fast-paced game similar to dominoes where players connect letters instead of dots. All games come in durable cloth pouches for easy travel. And for even more BANANAGRAMS brainy fun, we will also include BANANAGRAMS for Kids, a puzzle book featuring 130 word games. To enter, send us an email explaining why you’d like to win: newyorkfamily@manhattanmedia.com and put “Bananagrams” in the subject line. Be sure to include your contact info, including address. Deadline to enter is Friday, August 26.

WIN TICKETS TO ARTHUR ASHE KIDS’ DAY!

Any budding athlete will jump at the chance to play games and watch pros at Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day on August 27. Events include obstacle courses, a juggling workshop and, of course, tennis clinics and racquet-related games. You can even watch the pros practice for the US Open and snag their autographs. The day caps off with a live performance at Ashe Stadium from a big name star – past performers include Justin Bieber, The Jonas Brothers and Rihanna. The activities on the grounds are free, but the concert is a ticketed event. And New York Family is giving away four passes to the performance! To enter to win, write to us at newyorkfamily@manhattanmedia.com and put “Arthur Ashe” in the subject line and include your contact information. Deadline to enter is Friday, August 19.

New York Family | August 2011

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www.newyorkfamily.com

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t rIM

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which of these will not reduce your electricity use? a. replacing light switches with dimmers or motion sensors b. focusing light where it’s needed instead of lighting a whole room c. removing lamp shades

ceiling fans can improve energy efficiency…

d. keeping bulbs and fixtures clean

a. in the summer b. in the winter c. in both summer and winter answer: c

an efficient way to keep your home cool in the summer is to... a. close shades or drapes to keep out the sun’s heat b. leave your a/c on all the time so it doesn’t have to cool a warm house

answer: c

what is the recommended setting for your a/c thermostat? a. 80° b. 78° c. 72° d. 60°

c. leave windows open for a breeze, even when it’s hot out

answer: a

answer: b

find 100 + energy tips at conEd.com trIM

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buz

worthy

August

The CheCklisT for

ride in Style

It’s about time safety became cool! Dominating the scene of scooters, boards and bikes is the ingenious 3D Raskullz helmet. Combining the traditional helmet model with the simple mission to “Protect the Head—Inspire the Imagination,” these whimsical creations encourage active little guys to don fashionable head gear before hitting the streets. The Raskullz line features a variety of motley characters and designs, such as Shark Attax, Radgon and Cutie Cat. Each comes with a back story to help kids get to know their newest safety friend. Adding to the high style factor are aerodynamic cooling vents, a shock absorbing EPS inner shell and adjustable straps. For more information, visit raskullz.com.

in with the old

Summertime unearths the question: what to do with all the clothes your youngster has outgrown? Forget casting away such sentimental values to storage; remember them always with The Great Remember, the creative brainchild of Brooklyn artist Lisa Waltuch. Wistful parents simply choose a design-appliqué, mosaic or locket, send in their child’s no longer needed wears, and wait as it returns as modern art. Nostalgia never looked so good! With these personalized unique pieces, busy parents can easily transform their home décor into a stroll down memory lane. For more information, visit thegreatremember.com.

Clean ClotheS with a CliCk

If you’re looking to ditch the powdered soap, Laundry Local is a quick-and-easy fix for time-strapped parents. The website does it all with a 3-step process that gets clothes out the door and back again, minus the baby food stains. With email notifications, an online payment system and local neighborhood delivery and pick-ups, Laundry Local has you (and your threads) covered. Check another errand off your list and let them do your dry cleaning, too. Pricing and scheduling varies by neighborhood. For more information, visit laundrylocal.com, or call 888-702-WASH.

P r i v at e S C h o o l C o n f i d e n t i a l

Finding the right New York City private school for your child can be daunting. These academic outlets are notorious for being some of the most competitive in the nation; and trying to comprehend their admissions process can cause serious stress. Fear not! Help is on the way. The NYC Private School Admissions Handbook: An Insiders’ Guide to the NYC Admissions Process From Nursery Through On-Going Schools by Jennifer Brozost, M.A. and Vimmi Shroff, M.A. is an easy-to-read manual that demystifies the city’s private schools. These former Admissions Officers (and NYC mothers), explain how to prep for the dreaded parent & child interviews, write clear application essays and navigate school tours. With chapters like “Is Your Relationship With Your Nursery School Director Just As Important As The One With Your In-Laws?,” “How NOT to Get Your Child Into a School,” and “Top Tier Schools—A Myth?,” this book is a light-hearted but informative approach to our city’s complex, private school system. For more information, visit nypeas.com.

kidtube

Ever wish there was a safer version of YouTube just for kids? KidzVuz.com, the only online destination of its kind, allows underagers to safely post user-generated reviews of anything under the sun. Think of it as an outlet for youth and by youth (ages 7-12) to express their ideas and opinions about whatever is on their mind. Kids can sign up, post a review and comment on other members’ videos. Categories include: Tech, Toys & Games, Movies & TV, Books & Magazines and Obsessions. Posting content and rating reviews or products encourages children by helping them earn points towards collectable badges. And rest assured: KidzVuz is entirely safe and does not ask for any personal information. Videos are only posted after being reviewed by web monitors. And later this month, KidzVuz will be sharing film instruction to teach tweens all about camera work and directing, in addition to launching school programs that will integrate KidzVuz into the classroom. Stay tuned! For more information, visit kidzvuz.com.

New York Family | August 2011

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www.newyorkfamily.com

7/25/11 11:20 AM

They Are Only Young Once. We Get It! FOR R E T S I G RE 1 FALL 201

Gymtime Gymnastics Rhythm and Glues All the fun and activity you can possibly have in one place!

1520 York Avenue, New York, NY 10028 â&#x20AC;˘ 212.861.7732

For more information and a full list of classes for your child visit: www.gymtime.net.

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7/21/11 5:19 PM

It’s my

miguel Reich celebrates his 4th birthday at the New york City Fire museum.

1: A gaggle of giggling guests delight in a magic show. 2: The party’s #1 fire chief embarks on a scavenger hunt. 3: Miguel, here with Mom and Dad, makes blowing out the candles a family affair. 4: The perfect FDNY-themed confection, fit for a four-year-old. Photos by Heidi Green (heidigreen.com)

Jared Klein celebrates his 8th birthday at Dave & Buster’s.

1: The birthday boy basks in the glory of his baseball-shaped cake. 2: Jared takes a break to flash a smile with sister, Rachel. 3: Party-goers wait patiently for an arcade game to reward them with tickets. 4: Aunt Jen, Uncle Rich, and cousins Brooke and Jake pile up the most tickets. Photos by Jennifer Lee (jenniferleephotography.com)

sophia Kasirer celebrates her 4th birthday in the Eloise suite at the Plaza Hotel.

1: Party guests primp with Eloise-approved dress-up attire. 2: The birthday girl readies to blow out her perfectly pink cupcake tower. 3: A palette of personalized treats complement the ultra-sweet birthday theme. Photos by Jordan Elyse (jordanelyse.com)

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www.newyorkfamily.com

7/22/11 3:29 PM

a good

idea

Operation Chicken Soup at The JCC

When Kids Care how To Foster Volunteerism and a Passion For service From an early age

Get Involved

BY NANcY RYeRsoN Math tutoring helps students master algebraic equations. Violin lessons can make you a virtuoso. Little League practice bolsters teamwork. But what can a kid do to acquire a more basic, but less tangible skill—becoming a productive and compassionate member of society? Volunteer! Volunteering is one of the best ways for young people to connect with their community. Whether kids and teens volunteer with peers at school, start their own project, or follow in mom and dad’s charitable footsteps—it’s never too early to start fostering a do-good spirit. “Volunteer work exercises kids’ empathy muscles,” says Christopher Caruso, Executive Director of generationOn, a national volunteer organization with a youthful slant. What originally began in New York City as the non-profit Children for Children, generationOn was created to give younger kids the opportunity to give back to their communities. Now part of the hefty Points of Light Institute volunteer network, generationOn works with schools, businesses and community organizations to form kidoriented volunteer clubs as well as offer hands-on opportunities. Where to start? It’s all about your child’s individual interests. “A kid is more likely to be inspired if it’s an issue they care about, or that fits in with their world,” Caruso explains. “Start with, what is that child passionate about? Let’s say it’s poetry or music. How do you share your love of music or your gift and passion with others?” With projects that involve collecting or donating possessions like toys, even little ones can get into the giving spirit. “If you think about birthdays and receiving presents and going to the library to get books, then you can think about kids who don’t have access to those things and how you can help,” Caruso suggests, putting things into perspective. Caruso also says that ASPCA younger people respond well to projects that involve aspca.org animals. Ollie’s Place, a cat adoption center in the East Village, normally accepts volunteers 15 years and older. But through August 30, Ol-

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lie’s is offering a special “Kitty Kamp” for whisker lovers ages 6–10 years who are interested in learning more about shelter cats. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and Bideawee also accept volunteers 16 and older. If your tot is too young to clean a cage or take a mutt for a stroll, she can still collect pet supplies and donate them to local shelters. For older kids, deeper engagement with a project helps to grow interest and further dedication. “Operation Chicken Soup,” a program that teaches tweens and teens about hunger-related issues in NYC and beyond, takes place at The Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Manhattan. With a cheery demographic of 20 to 30 tweens and up to 60 high-schoolers, both crews cook meals for the West End Intergenerational Residence, the Council of Senior Centers and the B’nai Jeshurun Homeless Shelter. “I think it’s really important when you’re doing a program like this to get the message across as to why you’re doing it,” says Yael Gavronsky, Director of Teen & Tween Programs at The JCC. “We have them reflect on the issues, and ask if they have any family members who have ever been homeless or in need.” Plus, the participants love to cook. With the help of a certified chef, they whip up everything from pizza bagels to Mediterranean meals. Teens sometimes even help the tween group with cutting vegetables or supervision, and great bonds have been born over soups and salads. “Some of the kids meet their best friends in these programs,” says Gavronsky. Age restrictions got you down? While some spots like hospitals and homeless shelters require volunteers to be over the age of 18, don’t let that be a discouraging factor. When The Hewitt

Bideawee bideawee.org

the Fresh Air Fund freshair.org

www.newyorkfamily.com

7/22/11 2:38 PM

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School student Harley Sherwood, 15, started collecting prom dresses for Memorial Sloan-Kettering’s Pediatric Prom for children with cancer, she was only 10. After her grandmother died of breast cancer, Sherwood was inspired to get involved with a cause. And although you must be 18 to volunteer at the prom itself, she has collected glamorous frocks from friends and peers, and hopes to expand her project to other private and public schools. So far, she’s collected 425 dresses. “The connection I felt symbolized something bigger than a simple donation of money,” says Sherwood. “The project’s goal is to give [the cancer patients] hope as well as a sense of normalcy for one night.” Sherwood is just one example of how a young person can be proactive about volunteerism—transforming the notion of philanthropy from an obligatory duty into a real passion. “Sometimes even the word ‘volunteering’ can have negative connotations if it’s school mandated, for example, and not self-driven,” says Caruso. But that doesn’t mean parents can’t lend an invisible hand. Keeping up a grateful spirit around the house can be enough to subtly inspire children to help out. One family-oriented community service organization is The Fresh Air Fund, which sends inner-city kids to families with country homes for a week-long summer break. “My wife and I both come from families where volunteerism and some self-sacrifice was a part of our upbringing,” says real estate developer Brian Edwards of the Upper East Side. He and his family have hosted a boy from the Bronx for five years and a boy from Brownsville, Brooklyn at their Hamptons home for two years now as part of The Fresh Air Fund’s programming. “It may be a lot easier to write a check, but the returns on a real sacrifice of personal time are far more satisfying to us.” Edwards’ son, Quinn, is 10—the same age as the two boys they host. Together, the trio spends a week swimming, playing board games, riding bikes, collecting berries and crabbing. Electronics and TV are off limits, but Edwards says the kids somehow manage to stay busy and have a great time. “We’re not hosting to entertain the children but rather to give them some simple pleasures that many kids aren’t able to enjoy,” says Edwards. Edwards adds that when they first started hosting the boys, Quinn, who grew up essentially as an only child because his siblings are much older, had to learn how to share his toys. But now, he runs and plays with the boys like best friends. “The best part has been the company of having other kids to play with,” says Quinn. A Boy Scout, he has also helped package food for the homeless with the Brick Presbyterian Church on the Upper East Side. Even around the house, Edwards says he keeps up a spirit of pitching in without being heavy-handed. His family’s most popular phrase? What can I do to help? “We’ve taught Quinn that he should look to volunteerism as an easy way to help others,” says Edwards. “In most cases it simply involves showing up.”

generationon generationon.org

New York Family | August 2011

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the JCC in Manhattan jccmanhattan.org

generationOn Quinn with Fresh Air Fund friends

Memorial SloanKettering Cancer Center

mskcc.org

ollie’s Place olliesplace.org

www.newyorkfamily.com

7/22/11 2:39 PM

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7/21/11 5:17 PM

place

Photography by Andrew Schwartz

special

a chelsea Studio For arts and Music Hones In On The Importance Of creative exploration In little Ones By Gavriella Mahpour This is the story of a large, airy studio nestled in a quiet corner of Chelsea. Shelves, boasting art supplies and musical instruments, line the perimeter. Large, boldly colored butterflies (painted by tiny fingers, of course) perk up the patrons passing through. Welcome to Kids at Work. A vibrant, caring and structured environment in which kids up to four years in age can experience music and art at their own pace. Founder, Owner, and Head Instructor Julie Averill—an accomplished musician who has performed with members of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra—conceptualized Kids at Work while working as a preschool teacher for various play-based centers. “I felt like I could create something on my own that really focused on the children and the teachers,” Averill explains. “Not so much on the growth of the business or marketing.”

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What began in 2007 as a once-a-week art class is now a thriving program with an eclectic array of offerings including the ever-popular “Sun Sessions,” a summer music class in Washington Square Park. This past spring, Kids at Work moved to their new location in Chelsea in order to accommodate their burgeoning success. For Averill, designing the space was a labor of love. “My father-in-law did everything. My whole family came together and the only real professionals we had were the people who painted. Everything else was just sweat and tears,” she gushes. Averill purposely created an uncluttered, zen-inspired zone so as not to over-stimulate youngsters. “When toddlers come in and it’s quiet, I feel like they can be more decisive and just start working. It’s not sensory overload,” she explains. Fine arts organizations such as Kids at Work are highly imperative to the creative development of young minds. “Music,

especially for very young children and babies, is really the first thing that you can evaluate a baby’s response to,” say Averill. She feels strongly that children have an outlet for self-expression. “Even if parents aren’t going to send their kids to a program like mine, I think it’s important that they put the tarp on the kitchen floor and put out the finger paints. I remember my aunt doing that for me when I was a toddler. It’s a huge memory of mine.” One of the ways in which Kids at Work stands out from the herd is with their flexible drop-in policy: once a parent registers their child for a package of classes they can come to those classes at any time during the semester. Averill chimes in, “I decided to try [the flexible drop-in policy] and see if I could make it work. I knew that nobody else did it. People have been really happy and I think they appreciate it.” Kids at Work also teams up with a few local businesses. Averill collaborates with www.newyorkfamily.com

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ABC Gym Kids for an open play program at their facility in the winter and a camp at Kids at Work during the summer. They also work with Taste Buds, a cooking school for little tykes. In addition to its arts and music programming, the studio hosts birthday parties for toddlers. Parents can choose either a crafty or musical experience, or a combination of the two, and Julie Averill the rest is taken care of. Kids at Work provides the children with all the ingredients necessary for party pizzazz, including food, balloons and goodie bags. Having mastered the fundamentals of kid-friendly arts & crafts and tunes, what does the future hold for Averill and her team? Coming fall, Kids at Work hopes to offer evening prenatal

classes for expectant parents in Manhattan. “I think there’s a huge hole in New York City for prenatal programs that are not sponsored by doctors or hospitals,” Averill observes. They also plan to add more Resources for Infant Educarers (RIE) classes, a parenting program that teaches adults how to develop autonomy and independence in children under two years of age. Currently, Kids at Work is one of just two places in NYC that offer this west coast-based vision. During “Jam Sessions Babies,” a Tuesday afternoon class, nine-month-old Ruby sits on the soft blue rug clutching green and red shaker eggs. She concentrates intently on Averill’s grinning face as she shakes the sand-filled plastic ovals. Ruby wiggles to the sounds of a strumming guitar. And for a moment, it’s as if the well-lit room radiates back with a charm that’s almost tangible. Averill seamlessly feeds off of Ruby’s delight—for her, it’s all in a day’s work. For more information on Kids at Work, visit kidsatworknyc.com. www.newyorkfamily.com

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August 2011 | New York Family

7/22/11 2:05 PM

OF THE MONTH

WHY

Chess?

Photo by Frank Wu

Activity

How The Classic Board Game Is

Enjoying A New Renaissance With Young Minds B y E l o r a To c c i

When Spencer Ha first began talking, he spoke with a speech impediment. Now, at 10 years old, Spencer describes himself in his school yearbook as “very talkative.” He attributes this transformation not to a dedicated speech therapist or years of verbal exercises, but to a game that, at first glance, seems completely unrelated to chatter: chess. Spencer began playing chess five years ago when instructors from NYChessKids began teaching programs at P.S. 77 Lower Lab, where he attended elementary school. He liked playing so much, that he continued taking lessons and practicing regularly. Three years later, he was competing in tournaments. “When I first started, I just played for five minutes a day,” Spencer says. “But then I got more serious and now chess is a really important part of my life.” The proof is in the pudding. Chess encourages kids to think critically and strategically. It can help developing minds put on their metaphorical thinking caps and get their brains ready to analyze. NYChessKids offers lessons in the morning before classes start so that kids can “warm up” their brains for the academic day ahead. Playing chess in the morning is like going for a run at sunrise – it leaves you energized and ready to work. It also boosts test performance; chess players are more likely to think through their responses and read questions critically. “Chess really trains a student’s mind to be an independent thinker and doer,” says Saudin Robovic, Founder and Owner of NYChessKids. “It provides focus, strategic thinking…and good sportsmanship. All these qualities can help our students address problems in life.” Spencer agrees: “Basically, you use your mind more in chess,

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and it helped me get better grades.” But Spencer Ha isn’t the only kid bitten by the chess bug. Teachers can actually see differences in their students who play the game. Chess is becoming increasingly popular in schools around the city, and parents and educators are raving about its educational, social and emotional benefits. Chess-in-the-Schools, a nonprofit for lower-income students that sends instructors into New York City public schools to teach chess as part of the curriculum, taught in 50 venues this past year and has an enormous waiting list of schools hoping to get in on the action. In response to the demand, which Marley Kaplan, President and CEO of the organization, says has swelled significantly in the last 10 to 15 years, Chess-in-the-Schools spearheaded Project Chess. The program trains teachers in chess instruction to embed in their lesson plans and pass along to their students. “A lot of [the kids] have home lives that are really challenging, and then they find chess and it really just opens up an avenue for them,” Kaplan says. “It gives them the confidence to look at life differently.” There are other pastimes, of course, that train the brain. But while classic games like Scrabble and checkers are not to be discredited, Kaplan says that the possibilities with chess are endless. Learning how the game works is just the beginning. “After you learn how to play…you just keep developing your mind and skills,” she says. “In other games you reach a limit, but in chess you can always do more.” Although kids who play chess used to be thought of as stereotypical brainiacs, the class valedictorians and science fair winners, it’s no longer the case. Kaplan stresses that the game is an enrichment vehicle for all youth. Regardless of school performance or www.newyorkfamily.com

7/25/11 11:34 AM

SCHOOL OF THE ARTS Fall classes begin Sep 19 ENROLL TODAY!

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academic ability, it’s a fair playing field on the chess board. In fact, 20 percent of the kids who participate in Chess-in-theSchools are special education students. “Chess is a universal language,” Kaplan says. “It’s a game that anyone, from the time you’re 5 to 105, can play.” Besides the thinking skills that the game develops, chess can do wonders for a child’s self-esteem. Although a novice may lose more often than win at first, they feel validated knowing they outwitted their opponent when they get to declare “Check mate!” And those positive feelings translate to the classroom. Although the game is non-competitive when kids are first getting acquainted with the pieces, it can become extremely challenging as things progress. Tournaments are the Olympics of the chess world – once a kid learns how to play the game, competitions show him just how good he really is. But it can become intense, as tears and frustration start to creep in. “That’s when you have to just stop and remind kids that it’s a game,” Kaplan says. “In chess, losing can actually be much more valuable than winning. Once you make a mistake in chess, you rarely make that same mistake again.” In many instances, a mistake becomes apparent as soon as your opponent makes her next move. But although chess players play to win, there’s a strong sense of camaraderie. Students often play on behalf of their school, and they root for each other. It gives them a sense that they’re part of something big. Chess is also more of a spectator sport than you might think – kids watch each other’s games and give pointers. They also dole out compliments when their friends do well, and are there for support if they don’t. “I’ve met so many people through chess,” Spencer says. “I make friends at tournaments and even if someone beats someone else, no one really gets mad.” Sounds like a win-win.

Where To Play

After-School Programs (open to the public) P.S. 116 P.S. 163 SMS (Special Music School) Solomon Schechter For more information, visit nychesskids.com. Fall Programs With Open Enrollment Village Chess Shop P.S. 151 Y.C.S. P.S. 59 Manhattan Youth Downtown P.S. 183 For more information, visit chessnyc.com/chess-academy. Other Resources Marshall Chess Club, marshallchessclub.org Brooklyn Chess Club, brooklynchessclub.com Chess for Children, chessforchildren.com/lessons New York Chess & Game Shop, newyorkchessandgameshop.com Chess-in-the-Schools, chessintheschools.org

New York Family | August 2011

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www.newyorkfamily.com

7/25/11 11:36 AM

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7/21/11 4:11 PM

Starting

out

Managing Milestones 10 smart tips

From the authors of The Essential Guide to Baby’s First Year

By Erika Landau MD and Abigail Brenner MD In ancient times, stones (aptly known as milestones) were placed alongside roads at specific intervals to help travelers measure distances and, therefore, their progress. In terms of human development, a milestone (from the Latin word “milarium”) is a complex set of skills and tasks that most children can achieve at a certain age. So what does this mean with regard to parenting? As a parent, it’s natural to worry about your baby reaching age-specific milestones. To give you a bit of a head start and to ease some of your fears, here’s a summary of what to expect within the first year, with important tips on how to keep your growing boy or girl on track. 1. Babies are unique individuals. They develop at their own pace. Constantly comparing your child to other babies of the same age or stage, or even to your other children, will only create unnecessary anxiety. 2. Be wary of “the window.” Babies are given a time frame in which to reach their milestones and after that window of opportunity has passed, you need to consult with your pediatrician. Your doctor will direct you to the appropriate specialists, or will tell you to wait before intervention. In some cases, short term speech, physical or occupational therapy will be effective. In other instances, one may need to work with a team of specialists. The sooner a problem is detected, the better the outcome will be. 3. The Milestones To Watch At Any Age. GroSS And FIne MoTor: the ability to move and control the muscles in the body

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LAnGuAGe SkILLS: the ability to use sounds and, eventually, words to communicate CoGnITIve deveLopMenT: the process involved in learning and understanding SoCIAL SkILLS: the ability to interact with family, peers and strangers 4. Age-Specific Milestones: Newborn GroSS MoTor: The baby lies on the back with curled legs and closed fists and can lift the head when lying on the stomach. FIne MoTor: The baby grasps objects when placed in the palm. They have specific reflexes including the Moro (startling reflex), grasping, rooting and stepping reflexes. LAnGuAGe: The baby makes some sounds, sometimes during sleep. CoGnITIve: The baby looks at light, can see about 10-12 inches from their face, and can track an object about 30 degrees. They hear noises and react to them. Two Months GroSS MoTor: The baby’s legs are straighter and less curled. When placed on the stomach, the baby will lift the head and chest. FIne MoTor: The baby is able to hold an object for a short period of time. All of the other reflexes are still present. LAnGuAGe: Cooing begins. CoGnITIve: The baby can follow objects past midline (at 180 degrees). SoCIAL: Your baby will smile in response to stimuli. Three Months GroSS MoTor: Your baby is moving more than before. Some babies start turning. FIne MoTor: The baby will attempt to reach and grab a toy but www.newyorkfamily.com

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will miss it. The Moro reflex disappears at this age. Language: new sounds emerge such as aaah and gaaah. CogniTive: Your baby smiles for a longer period of time. Four Months gross MoTor: Your baby is able to lift the head and the chest when lying on the back. Fine MoTor: The baby reaches and holds onto objects, can bring the hands to the middle of the body, and pushes with the feet when held up. Language: The baby laughs and shows emotion. CogniTive: Your baby likes music and starts recognizing familiar faces. Five-Six Months gross MoTor: The baby can roll over, back to stomach, and is able to sit with support. The head does not lag as before. Fine MoTor: Your baby can hold a bottle. Language: Babbling begins. CogniTive: The baby knows that an object is hidden, tries to find it, but doesn’t get it yet. soCiaL: The emotions are stronger now. The baby can respond to sadness and happiness. Seven Months gross MoTor: Your baby can put weight on the feet when placed in a standing position. sitting is more stable. Fine MoTor: The baby will reach and hold larger objects, starts transferring from one hand to the other, and can hold smaller objects with the palm. Language: vowels are starting to be used. CogniTive: The baby explores everything by putting objects in the mouth. soCiaL: The baby does not like to be left alone and prefers parents and caregivers over strangers. Eight Months gross MoTor: Your baby sits well without support and takes steps while holding on to furniture (cruising). There are many forms of crawling including: on all fours, “commando,” backwards and sitting and moving very fast from one side to the other. some babies don’t crawl at all. They just stand up, and that’s perfectly fine. Fine MoTor: They hold objects with the fine pincer grasp—between the thumb and index finger. Babies like feeding themselves. Language: Your baby responds to “no”, shakes the head and imitates sounds. CogniTive: Your baby can find hidden objects. soCiaL: stranger anxiety begins. Nine-Ten Months gross MoTor: The baby crawls and/or cruises well. Fine MoTor: The fine pincer grasp is completely mastered. Language: Your baby is louder and more vocal, using many syllables while babbling. CogniTive: He/she points at things with the finger, can follow one command and loves banging toys together. soCiaL: The baby will stop when told “no”. He/she likes looking at pictures, starts feeling different textures and loves the mirror. Eleven Months gross MoTor: He/she may start walking with both hands held. Fine MoTor: They start to find a dropped object. Language: Your baby may start to say mama or dada. soCiaL: Peek-a-boo is a favorite. www.newyorkfamily.com

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Twelve Months gross MoTor: The baby starts walking with one hand held. Fine MoTor: He/she picks up and finds objects when dropped. CogniTive: Your baby can imitate adults. soCiaL: The child follows commands and can play simple games. 5. Be on the look out for something wrong. at all ages, it’s essential to assess the baby’s muscle tone, if there is a significant delay in more than one developmental skill, and if the baby doesn’t react or communicate. 6. Adjust the timeline for premature babies. if, for example, the baby was born one month prematurely, calculate the baby’s developmental age by subtracting the number of weeks from the actual due date. at four months, the baby will have the milestones of a three-month-old. eventually, the premature baby will catch up. 7. Introduce your child to others of the same age. even if they don’t play together, babies will be interested to explore the sights and sounds of another. 8. Interact with your child. Talking and singing will help your little one develop their own verbal and comprehension skills, and soon enough, your baby will understand you. read to your child. Hold them while you walk around or do things in the house—explain what you’re doing and seeing. give them age-appropriate toys, but remember that your presence and interaction can never be matched. 9. Your worries are not unfounded. if you’re worried about anything, talk to your pediatrician. ask questions, learn what kind of help is needed, and make sure that the lines of communication are open between everyone. Feel free to ask for a second opinion. after all, you are the parents, you spend the most time with your children and you are, in many instances, the first to know if something may be wrong. 10. Take good care of yourselves. ask for help if you feel tired and overwhelmed. enjoy your baby’s first year! k August 2011 | New York Family

7/22/11 3:53 PM

Our Favorite Things A Preview Of Noteworthy Products From New York Family’s Upcoming New Parents Expo friendly animals with their tails entwined into hearts. What’s more, these footies are made out of 100% luxuriously soft Peruvian cotton and are machine washable. Soft. Simple. Magnetic. $39.00, magnificentbaby.com

Spanish Deluxe Gift Set by Little Pim HAPPYMORNING and HAPPYSQUEEZE Smoothies by Happy Baby Premium organic meal-maker Happy Baby has two new products for any parent looking to live the nutritious and wholesome “Be Healthy, Get Happy” lifestyle. HAPPYMORNING superfruit + supergrains smoothies deliver a quick-and-easy 100-calorie high energy start to your day. Each environmentally-responsible pouch provides Omega 3s and protein, plus mega antioxidants from superfruits like mangosteen. Need a clean, green energy boost later in the day? HAPPYSQUEEZE smoothies are a 100-calorie snack of superfruits like pomegranate and yumberry. Packed with fiber and half a serving of fruit, the portable drinks are perfect for lunchboxes, backpacks and briefcases. $1.89, happybabyfood.com

Elephants on Parade Footies by Magnificent Baby

Magnificent Baby’s footies will have your tot dressed faster than Clark Kent turns into Superman, thanks to hidden Smart CloseTM magnetic fasteners. No more wrestling with onesies on the changing table—simply open the footie, insert baby and the outfit practically dresses itself. The adorable Elephants on Parade print features

New York Family | August 2011

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Little Pim, the company whose “Fun With Languages” series has won over 20 consumer and educational awards, has put together a handy Spanish Deluxe Gift Set, complete with three Spanish language DVDs, a Little Pim Spanish Bop music CD, Spanish word and phrase cards, and a plush toy panda. Using the Entertainment Immersion MethodTM, toddlers can easily pick up foreign phrases and be on their way to becoming bilingual babies! $84.95, littlepim.com

Lollisoft SD Bunk Beds by Resource Furniture Founded in 2000, Resource Furniture offers a line of unique space-transforming furniture, all designed and made in Italy. With separate day and night functions, space-savers like the Lollisoft SD bunk beds are ideally suited for city apartments with growing families. Offering more than 40 beautifully-designed and completely customizable systems available for children, teens and adults, Resource Furniture can breathe new life into your limited city storage space. Versatility at its best! Starting at $6,500, resourcefurniture.com www.newyorkfamily.com

7/25/11 4:10 PM

KeyFit® 30 Infant Car Seat by Chicco Vroom! Vroom! Who’s ready for a road trip with a newborn? Don’t be intimidated. The KeyFit® 30 Infant Car Seat accommodates infants from 4 to 30 lbs, with features including a one-pull harness tightening and loosening system, thicklypadded infant insert to give extra support for smaller babies, and EPS energy-absorbing foam. To make installation easier, the vehicle base utilizes an innovative LATCH management system with a one-pull tightening strap, as well as easy belt routing, a spring-loaded adjustment foot, and easy-to-read bubble level guides on each side. This premier infant car seat makes hitting the road a cinch! $179.99, chiccousa.com

YoBaby Meals by Stonyfield Farm Stonyfield Farm, maker of delicious organic yogurts, brings us YoBaby Meals for little guys 12-24+ months. Each one a delicious 3-in-1 combination of yogurt, fruits and veggies, these meals pack a powerful punch with flavors like pear & green bean, peach & squash, and apple & sweet potato. Made with whole milk yogurt, a 4 oz. cup provides two-thirds of a combined daily serving of fruits and veggies, plus other essential nutrients like zinc and vitamin A. Healthy babies, raise your spoons! $2.89 for a four-pack, stonyfield.com

dads!) on-the-go have easy access for diaper changing, easy dressing and temperature ventilation. A cut above the rest, this blanket is made out of a cozy fabric with a roomy fit. Comfortable and functional. What more could a baby want? $29.50, gunamuna.com

Better Basics Harper Crib by giggle This crib is everything fantastic baby furniture should be— from the quality construction with solid birch wood to the clean, classic lines that fit every décor and every budget. The giggle Better Basics Harper Crib is a new parent’s dream, while meeting some very important giggle criteria, including Good Value, Multi-stage, Space saving/ Compact, and Tested. Sweet dreams, for you and your baby. $550 for Walnut finish, giggle.com

Baby Buggy®

The first major overhaul in the sleep sack market in 15 years, the oversized gunapod is a fully wearable baby blanket for optimum comfort. With its patent-pending all-around zipper, moms (and

The official charity for the New Parents Expo, Baby Buggy is in its tenth year of operation as a non-profit dedicated to providing families in need with essential gear, products and clothes for children from newborn through 12 years old. Founded by Jessica Seinfeld, Baby Buggy has generously donated more than 4.9 million items—including cribs, strollers, clothing, diapers and bottles—across the country. For more information, please visit babybuggy.org

the nation’s biggest event for new parents this year

a speaker series with informational seminars featuring…

vicki iovine, author of the girlfriends’ guide to pregnancy

gunapod by gunamuna

Calling all new and expectant parents! Coming this fall to Pier 92 in Manhattan, our New Parents Expo is expected to be the single biggest event for parents in the nation this year! This mega-show 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:

www.newyorkfamily.com

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liz lange, founder of liz lange maternity rosie pope, star of bravo’s “pregnant in heels” dr. bob sears, co-author of the baby book 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, find it on Facebook or follow it on Twitter @NewParentsExpo.

August 2011 | New York Family

7/25/11 4:10 PM

Grand Opening

Fall 2011

Pre-Professional Ballet Program and special Boy’s Classes

Learning Through Play Early Birds from 7:30am and After School 3pm to 6pm

Ages 7-18

Mother & Child Classes

Infant to 6 years and 6 years to 12 years after school program

Ages 2-3

Pre-Ballet, Tap, Modern and Drama Ages 3-6

Adult Open Classes All Levels Ballet, Tap, Zumba, Jazz, Pilates and Yoga

The fall semester begins September 19th. Call or email for registration and schedule information.

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

BalleT aCademy eaST

1651 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10128 212-410-9140 info@baenyc.com www.baenyc.com

Co umbus ym

Gymnastics

CLASSES AGES 6 MONTHS TO 12 YEARS

Established in 1988, Columbus Gym is the largest and longest running gym program on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Our state-of-the-art 3000 square foot gymnasium features every piece of equipment imaginable for superb classes and birthday parties. Columbus Gym classes keep the spirit of fun while teaching children 6 months to 12 years. The Tiny Tot Fitness Program concentrates on balance, coordination, and fine motor skills along with sports, props, and circle time. Mini gym/super gym classes provide an introduction to basic skills using all pieces of apparatus (vault, balance beam, bars, floor, and trampoline). All classes are non-competitive and child-friendly.

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Fall Class es Begin Septemb er 14 th

Not every kid wants the same kind of camp, and we want happy campers! Not every kid wants the same kind of camp, and we want happy campers! That’s why St. Bart’s is offering

three options that include swim every day: St. Bart’s Day Camp • June 8th – August 21st Perfect for 3 1⁄2 to 8 year olds: swimming every day, sports, art or science, dance, plus a whole lot more on our rooftop playground! Island Sports Camp • June 22nd – August 21st For 7 – 13 year olds who like something a little more sporty. Start the day with science, art, yoga or drama, then jet off for a day of softball, soccer, and tennis. The day concludes back at St. Bart’s with swimming instruction in our indoor pool. Adventure Camp • June 22nd – August 21st June 6th-August This camp is great for 8 – 13 year olds who aren’t crazy 19th about sports but are into art, science and a little adventure. This camp offers two (2) educational/recreation trips per week in and outside of Manhattan. includes years some sports, yoga, to drama12:30pm and a weekly art/science showcase. AgeAlso3-4.5 9am Summer at St. Bart’s also offers flexible scheduling, the Breakfast Club, Lunch After Camp program. To • Arts and Crafts • Sports in our and gym register, schedule a family tour at your convenience, or receive more information, contact Eileen Reddy at • Dance and • Rooftop play (212) 378-0203, reddy@stbarts.org or visit Movement our website: www.stbarts.org.

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7/8/2011 7:06:12 PM 7/21/11 4:13 PM

EVERYTHING’S COMING UP

HOW "PREGNANT IN HEELS" STAR ROSIE POPE BECAME THE MOMMY MAVEN OF THE MOMENT BY MEGAN MAXSON PHOTOS BY THADDEUS HARDEN 38

New York Family | August 2011

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t’s easy to see why the producer of Bravo’s “Pregnant in Heels” was drawn to Rosie Pope when he first saw her—pregnant and screaming at construction workers—at the site of her maternity store on Madison Avenue. Pope is a tough cookie when she needs to be. But she’s also effortlessly charming (hello, that smile!) and exudes three-scoops-please delight when talking about what drives her most— being a mother, and helping others enjoy the experience of becoming a parent, too. At first glance, Pope seems to be the quintessential New York mommy–she’s got a fabulous career, a former Wall Street hubby-turned business partner, two super cute sons (James and Wellington), and a place on the Upper East Side. So who would have guessed that she wants her story to end with a house and a big family in Charleston, South Carolina? With a piedà-terre in the city, of course. So, you’ve been a ballerina, model, private detective, a neuroscience student at Columbia, and you’re now a mommy concierge and maternity store owner turned reality show personality. How did you end up taking this journey? I grew up in a household where it didn’t seem abnormal to have really big career swings if that’s what interested you. My mother was a doctor and a genetic researcher, and my father was a geophysicist and then in the 80s he became a very successful ballet dancer. When I was eighteen, they let me come to New York to dance and I think that’s when I started to grow up for the first time. I spent my whole life trying to get straight A’s and trying to be [the] best ballet dancer and not thinking about what I wanted to do. When I came to New York, it was a city full of so many interesting people and opportunities—that’s when I started to try to find myself and it led me to all these interesting things. What inspires you to take on new challenges? For me it’s really important to be happy. I think it makes you a better person, makes a marriage better and it definitely makes you a better parent. It’s really hard if you get into a rut of responsibility and before you know it, life’s going to pass you by. You just finished the first season of “Pregnant in Heels.” How would you describe www.newyorkfamily.com

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your show to someone who hasn’t seen it? It’s a show that that tracks me and my more outlandish clients in New York City and their requests on the way to giving birth. Although at face value, all of their requests seem kind of insane, underneath it all, they have the same insecurities that everybody has about being a parent and they just want to celebrate [the experience of new parenthood] and want to be well-prepared.

“I get nervous if my children cry on the street…People expect me to be like the Baby Whisperer and then my kids are crying.” How do you explain the show's appeal? Even though on the outside it’s about pregnancy, it really touches on human emotions—fear, responsibility, love—all the things we go through. When you first try to get pregnant or you know someone getting pregnant, you don’t really know much about it. Then all of a sudden, the floodgates open and everyone tells you these stories. It’s one of those subjects that seems kind of secretive until you’re in it. I think people want to know more. You’ve done a lot for your clients—help pick out baby names, help find nannies. What has been your most challenging request so far? On the show, one of the ladies wanted to be painted naked on a horse. But for me, it wasn’t so much the request that was challenging. The underlying issue was that her mother had died when she was very young and she was terrified that in some way she would leave her baby, too. She worked at a zoo and was really good with animals. So my point was that those are going to be the same instincts that you’re going to use to take care of the child, only stronger. And for her, having a painting of her on a horse with her baby [was] what she needed to look at every morning to remind herself that she could do it. It sounds like such a crazy request, and it was, but underneath it was one of the most touching stories.

How has the show changed your life? I get nervous if my children cry on the street. People look at me weird. People expect me to be like the Baby Whisperer and then my kids are crying. But honestly, it’s changed my life for the better. I am really touched [when] traveling outside New York City [by] how many people are inspired by the show— especially the fertility story. It’s really made me feel a lot closer to all of our fans and it makes me want to do it more and more. What made you decide to share your story about trying to get pregnant with your audience? I felt that if I didn’t tell the story of my pregnancy, I wasn’t being honest about what we’d been through. I’ve known so many people who have had difficulties with fertility and I thought that there were very few people in the media openly talking about it. Ever since it happened, I’ve been so glad that we did it. Many people have come up to me and thanked me for putting it out there because they felt so alone with the struggles they were having. Can you tell me about your store, Rosie Pope Maternity? We have a motto—“every day is a baby shower.” When you come into the store, it’s very celebratory. We have chandeliers, mocktails, candy and cupcakes, and a lot of really fun music. It’s an experience, not just shopping. We have everything from diaper bags to dresses to t-shirts and nursing bras. What makes the clothes in your store so unique? I really try to design them so they also work after you’ve had the baby. We work a lot on fit and cut, and we don’t just rely on stretch fabric with spandex to make things work. I spend a lot more time on the tailoring to make it a great piece for your wardrobe in general. Where did you learn to design clothes? I don’t have a traditional design background. I didn’t have any money in college, so I made all my own clothes. And I think my science background lent to the fit aspect. You’ve partnered with Citibabes with regard to your MomPrep courses. How do you decide what classes to offer in MomPrep? The thing about the New York moms is August 2011 | New York Family

7/22/11 5:43 PM

that you don’t have a lot of time. You want things that are convenient—so we have a studio Uptown on Madison Avenue and we also wanted to have classes Downtown [where Citibabes is located] so people didn’t have to travel. I think that taking the core curriculum classes gives you the confidence to enjoy your baby more. They include: A-Z of Childbirth & Newborn Care, Infant CPR & First Aid and Prenatal Breastfeeding. Then we have a lot more classes that come [from working] with clients privately. Whether it’s decorating the nursery or baby showers, I like to turn those [experiences] into an affordable class for everyone. How do you manage it all—your own show, designing, having a store and being a mom? I gave up sleep the last few years. But I’m really lucky because I work with my husband who left his job on Wall Street last summer. We run the business together and have an amazing team. We are able to control our schedule, to some extent, which allows us to tag team with the kids and it gives us a lot more flexibility than if we were in a more corporate environment. Speaking of your husband, tell me how you met. We got into the elevator together [at the Gansevoort Hotel] and one of the other men was trying to hit on me. And Daron, who’s a southern gentleman, stepped in and sort of saved the day. And that guy, by the way, ended up being a guest of honor at our wedding. So I always tell people to look around when you’re in an elevator—you never know. Tell me about your children. My oldest son, James, is almost

See Rosie In Action

AT THE NEW PARENTS EXPO Adore Rosie? Us too! You can catch her at our New Parents Expo on October 15 and 16 at Pier 92, where this supermom and superentrepreneur will be a special Keynote Speaker. For tickets, visit newparentsexpo.com. See page 34 for more info.

New York Family | August 2011

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three and is very energetic. I think he’s a genius, but I know probably every parent [says that]. He’s very into role play, but apparently I suck. I take everything a little too literally. And my youngest son, Wellington, is five months and is the complete opposite. He’s very calm and relaxed, and likes to hang out and watch what’s going on. I appreciate every single second I have with them—it’s the highlight of every day for me. How has your view of the city changed since becoming a parent? I thought that once I became a parent, I would want to leave instantly. But the complete opposite happened. I think especially for young children, it’s brilliant. The space is a little bit limited, but that’s why we have places like Kidville and Citibabes. As a mom, why do you like living on the Upper East Side? It’s very family-oriented and there are lots of little shops, coffee stores and bakeries, so it feels very community-driven and it’s away from the madness a little bit. We

love getting cookies at Sarabeth’s! If you get a chance, what’s your favorite way to pamper yourself? Honestly, I’m not good with that at all—I just end up stressing out. I was teasing my husband because he keeps telling me to do yoga, but having all that quiet [left me] much more anxious. The most relaxing time is being with my kids. What do you see in your future? I would really like to start expanding our store into different cities. But I’m also interested in working on product lines that are more affordable so that we really reach a lot of our fans. If you could give one piece of advice to all pregnant women, what would it be? Take the time to enjoy yourself. I think the more education you’ve had and the more things you’ve read and the more people you talk to—it will just give you the confidence and the tools so that when your baby comes, you can relax and enjoy them and [actually] have the time to get to know who they are. www.newyorkfamily.com

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SATURDAY AUGUST 27

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Two PersPecTives on The QualiTy of educaTion, The Money and everyThing in BeTween www.newyorkfamily.com

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August 2011 | New York Family

7/22/11 4:05 PM

Private SchooL

victoria Goldman outlines Why Private School education is “the Best Money can Buy” BY MArlA WAsserMAN Victoria Goldman has written two wellregarded guides to New York City private schools: The Manhattan Directory of Private Nursery Schools, which will come out with its 7th Edition in June 2012, and The Manhattan Family Guide to Private Schools and Selective Public Schools. She also served on the Board of Trustees of the Riverdale Country School, from which her two children graduated, for eight years. What are some of the biggest considerations for a family debating private school education for their child? The biggest factor is student-teacher ratio. You will get smaller classes almost overall at a private school. That doesn’t just apply to New York City; it is a national issue. What also stands out most about private schools is that they have better facilities and better specials. For example, the art programs, athletics, science labs…The facilities can dovetail with the

PuBLic SchooL

clara hemphill Discusses Why Public School is the Best choice For Many Families BY sArAh seltzer Clara Hemphill has written comprehensive guides to New York City public elementary schools, middle schools and high schools and is also the Founder of insideschools.org, which offers well-reported and flavorful descriptions of the city’s public schools. She has two children, ages 15 and 18, who have both been educated in the public school system. How should parents who want to become fully educated about their public school begin their search? Your first option is, of course, your neighborhood school, which you can locate by calling 311 or searching the Department of Education’s website at schools.nyc.gov. In large parts of Manhattan, the neighborhood schools are not just fine but really excellent, particularly in District 2, which is the East Side south of 96th Street (but not the Lower East Side) and the West Side south of 59th. If you live in another area, you should still check out

New York Family | August 2011

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program. Private schools might even have a wider range of curriculum. But there are no absolutes when you compare. It is apples and pomegranates. It is just very, very different and though both are fruit and you will get educated, there are huge differences. If a family is fortunate enough to be accepted to a special public program, such as Hunter or Anderson, do the considerations for private schools change? Not really. The facilities are still lacking. And when you get all the way down to the end of the road, the college offices give more individualized attention at a private school. When we say private schools are supportive, we mean it in such an overarching way. The price is high, averaging about $40,000 a year, but it is the best education money can buy. For a family who is struggling with the financial decision of whether to send a child to private school, does it make sense to choose public school for the early

years? Obviously, it depends on the family. It also depends on the quality of the local public school. You need to consider the competitiveness of your local public school and the teacher-student ratio, along with your finances. And, finally you also have to consider proximity to home and social benefits. When I say social benefits, I mean, what can your kid get programmatically out of that public school? Does the school have a sports team that your kid would be interested in, or does it have a good drama teacher for your kid who is interested in theater? And, if the child plans to move to private school later, is it competitive enough

your neighborhood schools. Some of them are good, and some of are great. What if the local school ends up being not-so-great? Your next option would be schools that either accept kids outside of your attendant zone or schools that are unzoned. On the Lower East Side, for example, there are a bunch of progressive schools with which a lot of parents are really happy. And on the Upper West Side, there are a number of schools that take kids from outside their attendant zone based on a lottery. Your third option is a gifted and talented [G&T] program. A final option is a charter school, which accepts children in a lottery. What should parents consider when deciding whether a given elementary school is a good choice for their child? If possible, I think it’s really important to visit schools when class is in session. The most important thing I look for is the level of engagement of kids. Bad signs include if the kids are bored out of their minds or if they are goofy and all over the place. I look for rich classroom libraries, lots of fun-to-read books, picture books, atlases and fiction. I don’t like schools that rely too

heavily on textbooks. Another thing I look for is the quality of children’s work on the walls. I like to see a variety of work that’s initiated by the kids, not just posters put out by textbook companies. What are some questions parents can ask when they visit schools? One of the key questions parents can ask is how the school handles different levels of ability within the same class. Some parents jump to put kids in a G&T program because they’re afraid they won’t be challenged in a regular classroom, but what’s important

Daniel Burnstein, Poly Prep

Andrew schwartz, Ps 151

www.newyorkfamily.com

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that the kid will be able to stand up? So if you don’t plan to send your child to private school for grades K – 12, are the early years or the later years more important? It is so individual. It depends on your family; it depends on your child. Let’s say, you went to a great private school for grades K–8, and then went to Stuyvesant High…That might work out great. Or, you can go to a great public school, like P.S. 6, for K–5 then apply to private school and wind up at any one of a number of fabulous private middle and high schools like Riverdale, Dalton and Trinity. There’s a lot of switching in both directions. Does being at a private school allow parents greater input regarding who teaches their children? There is a great deal of integrity in private schools; it isn’t a case of the tail wagging the dog. Parents cannot have teachers fired, but they can have conversations with administrators about individual learning styles and making good matches in terms of teachers and coaches. Do private schools attract better teachers? In a lot of cases, public schools have the more credentialed teachers. Pri-

vate schools, however, have more latitude to hire non-credentialed teachers who may be experts in their field; for example, a historian teaching history or a drama department head who is a playwright and director when he is not teaching. It would be an over-generalization to say that you get better teachers at private schools. What you get is better instruction, because it is more individualized attention. But even at this astronomical price of $40,000 a year, your kid can get a bad teacher and have a bad year. If you place a high value on diversity, will you be disappointed at a Manhattan private school? You are not going to find much diversity. The schools are between 10 and 20 percent financial aid, and there are very few full rides, whereas a normal public school represents the community. When a child leaves a private school, what has all that money bought besides a solid education? These private schools have such wonderful values and traditions. There is a polish the kids receive. The traditions at private schools give the students an

identity, a connectedness to their school. When a kid leaves P.S. 6, he is not bleeding P.S. 6 colors. When a kid leaves Horace Mann, she bleeds crimson. There is a community that you are buying into that extends beyond the academics. If you had an overall message for parents struggling with the decision about private school, what would you say? In New York City, there is so much choice that it is a luxury to go to school. There are so many different public options and so many different private options, and everyone finds his or her place somewhere and usually, but not always, is happy, gets a great education and goes on to higher education fully prepared. The case for private school is very strong. But it is exorbitant…it costs about $520,000 to go K–12 once you throw in the contribution to the headmaster’s fund. If you don’t have that kind of money, it is fine and understandable. More importantly than all of this is the case for good parenting. Support your child, be a member of the school’s community and transcend any and all cliques as you would advise your child.d

in any classroom is the teacher’s ability to find work that’s appropriate for everyone. One of the ways you can identify that in a classroom is if one child is reading Frog and Toad and another is reading Charlotte’s Web. What do you tell parents who are concerned with the cost of private school but fear that public schools will not give their kids the same kind of personal attention? The public schools have large class sizes and facilities that are often somewhat run down. But what I think is really important is the quality of interaction between the teacher and the kids. Sometimes you get larger classes in neighborhoods like Tribeca or the Upper East Side where the teaching is so good that parents will do what they can to get their kids in that school. The contractual limit for kindergarten is 25 kids per class. It’s 28 for grades 1 to 3, and 32 for grades 4 to 6. And ultimately, the issue of where to send your child can really depend on your child: do you have a robust child who can thrive in a rough-and-tumble atmosphere or a delicate child who might not be able to? In general, my advice is save your money for college. Besides the lack of tuition, what are some

advantages of a public school education? A lot of parents are concerned by rampant materialism and consumerism in our culture, and while there’s some of that in the public schools there’s probably less [than in private schools]. People talk a lot about having friends of all races and social classes. In elementary school, my daughter had friends who lived in brownstones and friends who were the children of superintendents living in basement apartments. It exposes them to a wide range of human experience. It seems that public elementary schools in parts of New York are excellent. How do middle schools compare? I had two children in District 2 middle schools. I was very happy with the quality of their education. There are some excellent middle schools, but there are very few ordinary neighborhood-zoned middle schools in which you can enroll your child. Middle schools have traditionally been the weak link in the city public school system. Visit the schools. What you look for is very similar actually to what you look for in elementary schools. How have public high schools been evolving? There are eight specialized schools,

nine including LaGuardia Arts—which requires an entrance audition. This [city] administration has focused really strongly on creating new small schools. In Manhattan there really are no more neighborhood high schools. Everybody has to go through this process of school choice. The good news is that there are a lot of good schools out there; the bad news is it’s an agonizing process. Wait lists have become a greater issue. What would you do to change things in the system if you could? Strengthen the neighborhood schools. School choice only works up to a point. There hasn’t been as much attention paid to the average students, particularly on the West Side. There are spots for superstars and spots for remedial education, but there isn’t much for kids in the middle outside of District 2. School choice helps some kids get better options than they would otherwise, but it doesn’t solve the problem, which is the shortage of adequate schools. d

www.newyorkfamily.com

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Editor’s Note: This piece originally ran in the July 2007 issue of New York Family. It has since been updated to reflect the experts’ current opinions. August 2011 | New York Family

7/22/11 4:05 PM

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THE

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BY JOY SHERWOOD

From Locker Organizers

To Lunch Sacks, Key Gear To Stock Up On Before The First Bell Rings

1. MERRELL Solo Origins Kid With removable foot beds $60 merrell.com 2. POST-IT Pop-Up Note Dispenser Apple Shape $10.49 staples.com 3. DABBAWALLA Lunch Sack Smart Cookie $28 buybuybaby.com 4. CAMELBAK GrooveTM Water Bottle Filter with a microbial component & BPA free $25 amazon.com 5. BOGS PLAIN BOOT Classic High Boots Spider Print $70 harrys-shoes.com

New York Family | August 2011

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www.newyorkfamily.com

7/25/11 5:18 PM

6. PBteen Gear-Up Locker Mirror/Zipper Pouch Pool Dot Pattern $19.50 pbteen.com 7. IScream Backpack Gummy Bear Pattern $34 lesters.com 8. Hallmark Abigail the Bunny Interactive Storybook & Story Buddy $29.95 hallmark.com 9. naturIno Style #2914 Denim and Silver Work Boot $76 naturino.com

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August 2011 | New York Family

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k Bac

New

one of the Nation’s Most Successful Nursery School Franchises

the Goddard School—takes on Manhattan BY MAriA rileY Next up in our series of new city schools is The Goddard School® on the Upper West Side. This September, Bill Swan and Maria Conti, Manhattan parents who have endured the preschool admissions process, are opening their doors. Swan, along with Goddard Systems CEO Joseph Schumacher, recently chatted with New York Family and shared insights into what sets these schools apart from the rest. Why Goddard? Bill Swan: One of the aspects of the Goddard model that attracted us was the involvement of the owner. The Goddard model is that the owners are present on a daily basis. The Education Director is therefore freed up to be in the classroom with the teachers, monitoring, coaching, making sure the model is followed and dealing with special issues with children. Her devotion is specifically and 100% to the educational aspect of the program, and not caught in the administration aspects. That’s unique to The Goddard School. Joseph Schumacher: We want to present a high-quality childcare alternative owned by members of the community. We think that gives us the benefit of having a locally-owned school operated by a member of the community but with all the advantages of a large corporation. Curriculum Vitae Bill Swan: I’m a clinical psychologist, Ph.D. I did work as an Associate Dean, but the most immediate, direct relevant experience is that I ran my own consulting business for over 20 years. I have the entrepreneurial background, business management background and awareness of the educational world. Maria [Conti] has an MBA and a Masters in

School on the

Block

Counseling. We each had been moving in separate spheres, but this enterprise is going to bring us together. We both love children; we have our own child, a seven-year-old daughter. We both went through the preschool process ourselves not long ago. New School In The City Bill Swan: The impetus for opening up a preschool started with touring our child through a number of them in Manhattan. There is a relentlessness of that process. As we went through the process there are a number of fine, wonderful, strong schools out there, but I did notice that some didn’t seem to care that much about the parents’ schedule or special circumstances or even bother to have the basic customer service skills that you would think would be present in a business. Joseph Schumacher: Our quality assurance is the foundation of what we do—health, safety and security. Once we have those standards, there is great opportunity for creativity and flexibility by the individual franchisee. Things like…what we call enrichment programs, which are programs in addition to the standard curriculum—yoga, sign language, second language and fitness, and things of that nature. Bill Swan: The four and five-year-olds have smart boards, reminiscent of CSI, where they move things around on the glass in front of them. The children can draw on them, touch what they drew, move it to another part of the screen, and combine it with what another child did. It’s a fabulous opportunity to engage children in something interesting and have them work together on a project. School Philosophy Joseph Schumacher: Our program is based on [Jean] Piaget and its contextual learning, playful learning. Our students are so very different, and we really embrace all the differences. A typical Goddard student is a child that’s interested in learning and having fun. The Goddard teacher has a base education, a love of teaching and real intellectual curiosity. All the lesson plans are teacher-prepared and that provides a lot of flexibility in the event, for instance, you’re doing a lesson plan about spiders and there’s a thunderstorm outside that catches the kids’ attention. You’re not locked in to staying with spiders. Kids learn best in what their most interested in at the time. For more information, visit goddardschool.com.

New York Family | August 2011

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www.newyorkfamily.com

7/22/11 1:36 PM

Back-to-School

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CliCk And leArn 15 educational Apps That inspire Curiosity And learning

By Gavriella Mahpour In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, savvy parents have turned to mobile apps to entertain (read: occupy and distract) children. However, apps can also serve as learning tools. In the spirit of on-the-go enrichment, we’ve come up with our top 15 educational apps for children. General App Sesame Street’s The Playground: Can you tell me how to get to Sesame Street? Now everyone’s favorite place is easily accessible via this kid-friendly app. Elmo must catch a lost puppy in this fully illustrated original Sesame Street story. The app includes a coloring book, Elmo’s Everyday Words and Big Bird’s Big Ideas, which teaches your little one new vocabulary. Ages: 4 and up Spelling Apps Alphabet Animals: This fully animated, interactive app is perfect for toddlers who are just beginning to learn their ABCs. Each letter of the alphabet features a colorful animal flashcard that moves and makes sounds. Alphabet Animals is an easy way to teach tots their letters, while monkey-ing around. Ages: 3 and up WordGirl Word Hunt: By Scholastic Inc., this hunt builds children’s vocabulary skills in a new and exciting way. In this creative app, evil villains have

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taken over the city and your child must save the day by collecting the correct words. With 20 WordGirl stories and over 100 definitions to learn, this vocab tester is sure to challenge. Ages: 4-8 Math Apps Tally Tots: Teaches toddlers how to count to 20 in an easy-to-use format. Each number is explained using sound and animation. The number 7 is introduced with a seven-layered sandwich, the number 2, by two racecars speeding on a racetrack. Guaranteed to keep little ones occupied for hours! Ages: 3-6 Park Math: Teaches pre-school through first grade children basic arithmetic skills, like sequencing and addition, via seven entertaining animalbased games in the great outdoors. This app features two stages of difficulty (three for iPad users) so kids can play at their own skill level. It also includes the music of popular nursery rhymes like “This Old Man” and “Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush.” Ages: 3-7 Writing Apps Super Why!: Based on the hit PBS kids show, this versatile app includes a variety of literacy games. Kids can choose from selections such as Wonder Red’s Rhyming Time, in which Wonder Red must find the missing rhyming words from her basket, and Super Why’s Story Saver, where children can help Super Why select words that complete the sentences in

the story. Players are rewarded with virtual stickers that can be collected in their very own “sticker book.” Ages: 3-6 iWriteWords: Kids can improve their handwriting with this unique game. Using their finger to trace the dotted lines of 70 words and 20 numbers, iWriteWords enhances writing skills and coordination. For added interactive fun, turn your iOS device and watch as the current word slides off the screen to reveal the next one. Ages: 4 and up Science Apps 8 Planets Pro: Outer Space never looked so good. 8 Planets Pro lets little scientists explore space without leaving the couch. They can choose from an array of activities like placing the planets in their correct order and filling in the missing letters in each planet’s name. Parents can also view a report card detailing their child’s “out of this world” progress. Ages: 5 and up National Geographic Kids: Introduce your kids to the worlds of natural science and world culture. Purchasing this app gains access to National Geographic Kids magazine and its fascinating articles. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Additionally, there are “weird-but-true facts,” games, puzzles, jokes and quizzes for the whole family. Ages: 6 and up www.newyorkfamily.com

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History Apps American Museum of Natural History’s Dinosaurs: Watch dinosaurs come to life! In the app’s Dinosaurs Mosaic section, children can view more than 800 images from the Museum’s extensive fossil archive. Each photo includes information about the paleontologist who unearthed the fossil, as well as facts about individual dinosaurs. In the Stories section, kids can listen to tales detailing even more dino-ventures. Ages: 8 and up Revolutionary War: Combining historic paintings, multimedia presentations,

and first-hand accounts, this app takes kids back in time to the days of the American Revolution. A “revolutionary” new app with sections like Causes of the War, Major Battles and Events, and Myths and Stories, there are also 200 biographies of the key players. Plus, you and the kids won’t want to miss your peek at the past reading letters between John and Abigail Adams. Ages: 12 and up Foreign Language Apps Global Roos Elementary Translation: A great learning tool for children who are becoming familiar with a second language. The app features

10 fundamental phrases in 8 languages including: French, German, Korean and Sign Language. Budding linguists will be able to learn key words like “hello,” “goodbye,” “thank you,” and “friend.” Ages: 4 and up Immersive Spanish: This app will have your child speaking español in no time. Advanced phonetic spelling technology allows students to learn the proper pronunciation of words and sentences. Immersive Spanish is made up of progressive units so kids advance at their own pace. ¡Perfecto! Ages: 5 and up

Five Websites For Worldly Wisdom Nick Jr. Boost: A new website from Nickelodeon where, for a small monthly membership fee, children can play fun, educational games. Featuring kids’ favorite Nick Jr. characters such as Dora and the Backyardigans, the games engage math, literacy, science, computer skills and more. Plus, there is a Parent Center where adults can check on (and encourage!) their children’s progress in each category. Ages: 3-6 TIME for Kids: The magazine’s website specifically designed for intellectually curious juniors. It features games and articles on national news and entertainment stories. There’s even a Homework Helper that provides educational links for children in subjects like science, math, social studies and language arts. Also, kids should check out the Writing Help section for tips on how to write top-notch papers. Ages: 7 and up Wonderopolis: Children with curious minds will love Wonderopolis, a website founded by the National Center for Family Literacy, that answers head scratchers like, “How Do Dinosaurs Get Their Names?” and “How Can You Talk Without Speaking?” Every day features a new “wonder,” a short article on anything from history to government, from food to the weather. Ages: 7 and up DOGO News: This website offers kid-friendly news articles on various topics like sports, the environment and international affairs. DOGO (meaning “young” in Swahili) provides an enriching platform for children to stay informed on the latest of the web in a safe, friendly environment. They can even post comments on the site’s monitored message board. Ages: 8 and up Kids Post: Kids Post is The Washington Post’s youth news website where children can read up-to-date articles, play games, complete jigsaw puzzles and vote on polls. It is a terrific tool for school or a way for idle minds to pass some time with web enrichment. Ages: 8 and up

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August 2011 | New York Family

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Pianist: Your little one will thoroughly enjoy this music app that transforms your iPhone into a full-size keyboard. Pianist features lifelike graphics including keys that deBring the zen home with our new CD, Come Play Yoga!, Mom’s Choice press at the touch of a hand and Awards Winner, available at CDbaby. a metronome to keep track of the com, Amazon, selected tracks on rhythm. The best part? Kids can iTunes and now playing on Pandora. ORZ NY |Family AdStreet, Final 7/20/10 10:58 AM Page 1record their own compositions Karma009 Kids Yoga 104 West 14th NYC | karmakidsyoga.com | (646)638-1444 and play them back for all to hear. Ages: 3 and up

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BONUS APPS FOR PARENTS iKidNY: Parents can access tons of pertinent NYC info using this handy app. Created by a New York City mother, iKidNY offers directions and information on indoor activities, outdoor adventures, subway elevators and family restaurants. Perfect for moms and dads on-the-go!

MyCityWay: Designed to make life a little easier by helping parents locate the nearest wireless hotspot areas, purchase movie tickets and check live traffic cams to ensure fast traveling. With apps for cities like New York, London and Paris, this is a must-have guide for busy urban families. All apps are available for purchase on the iTunes website. www.newyorkfamily.com

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Better

Beach Books From The Quirky To The Provocative To The Outright Hilarious, We’ve Got Your Genre Covered By Maria Riley No summer vacation feels complete without a few great beach reads tucked in your tote. Here’s our must-read short list with something for parents, the little ones and bookworms of any age. QUIRKY. S’Mother: The Story of a Man, His Mom, and the Thousands of Altogether Insane Letters She’s Mailed Him by Adam Chester takes a hilarious look at a helicopter mom to the extreme. Chester welcomes readers into his world of s’mothering by sharing handwritten notes from his overeager mama and retelling stories of teenage embarrassment. HILARIOUS. A bedtime story exclusively for grownups, Go the F--- To Sleep by Adam Mansbach, challenges sleep-deprived parents everywhere to lighten up and laugh at themselves. Mansbach weaves traditional storytime illustrations with real-life bedtime scenarios—kids fighting sleep and parents fighting the urge to yell expletives until they finally doze off. INSPIRING. The Rhythm of Family: Discovering a Sense of Wonder Through the Seasons is the ultimate guide to living a quieter lifestyle centered around nature. Authors Amanda Blake Soule, the SouleMama blogger, and Stephen Soule explore a simpler way to raise a family and embrace the natural world. Available in bookstores this month! PROVOCATIVE. Carolyn Evans shares her relationship-salvaging techniques in Forty Beads: The Simple, Sexy Secret for Transforming Your Marriage. This humorous (albeit in-your-face) “manual” derives from Evans’s first-hand experiences with

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her own struggling marriage. With chapters like, “Sex or a Dark Chocolate Dove Bar?” and “Hitting the Reset Button” reading Forty Beads feels more like indulgence therapy. CREEPY. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs just hit the shelves earlier this summer. An overnight success, this intriguing young adult novel was named best book of the month by Amazon. Sixteen-year-old Jacob travels to a mysterious island off the coast of Wales, uncovering frightening details about children who occupied “the Home” years before, including his own grandfather. Vintage photography escalates its haunting charm. PASSIONATE. For all of you hopeless romantics out there, The New York Times bestselling author Jane Feather delivers with her latest historical romance novel, A Wedding Wager. 18th-Century London creates the perfect backdrop for lovers in turmoil, inheritance woes and family turbulence. Readers are sure to devour every bloody word. GRIPPING. The Man in the Rockefeller Suit by Mark Seal, a Contributing Editor for Vanity Fair, is a true-to-life page-turner. This is the unbelievable story of a man obsessed with having it all, madly craving the American Dream to the tipping point of obsession. As one review aptly describes it, Seal captures the idiosyncrasies of “a real-life Talented Mr. Ripley.” TOUCHING. Award-winning journalist Melissa Fay Greene opens her home and

candidly shares her story of raising a family of nine children—five adopted from Bulgaria and Ethiopia. No Biking in the House Without A Helmet is a light-hearted and honest look at adoption, raising children and defining family. INTELLECTUAL. If you’re into pondering the great mysteries of the mind, then you’ll want to check out neuroscientist David Eagleman’s Incognito: The Secret Lives of the Brain. Exploring the deep crevices of brain function and subconscious thought, Eagleman examines scientific research, breaking down concepts in a way that every reader can comprehend. ADORABLE. From the award-winning Mo’s Nose™ Scentsational book series, for ages 4-8, Margaret Hyde’s Mo Smells Pink follows rescue dog Mo on his “pink-infused play date.” The story’s theme, permeating with pink aromas of grapefruit bubble bath and peppermint stick ice cream, illuminates the value of friendship with eye-catching illustrations. CAPTIVATING. Five words . . . The Invention of Hugo Cabret. Author Brian Selznick follows up the 2008 Caldecott Medal Winner with his latest novel, Wonderstruck. Once again Selznick wows readers with an interwoven tale of magical pictures and an intriguing story of two children living 50 years apart and their simultaneous journey in search of something more. www.newyorkfamily.com

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Feed Your Face (And The Family) With These Recipes From Our Yummy Delicious Blog

Honey-Hoisin Marinated Skirt Steak Skirt steak is my favorite cut of beef – brawny, tender and relatively inexpensive. If you’re feeling ambitious, throw some chopped scallions and/or minced garlic into the marinade.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 3-5) 1/3 cup Hoisin sauce 2 TB soy sauce 1 TB honey 1/4 cup canola oil Freshly ground pepper to taste 1 – 1.5 lbs. skirt steak, cut cross-wise into two or three pieces

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4) 1 whole pork tenderloin, approximately 1 lb 1 tsp dried thyme 1 tsp dried rosemary Salt to taste Freshly ground pepper to taste 2 garlic cloves, minced Olive oil Season pork tenderloin liberally with thyme, rosemary, salt and pepper. Place it in a Ziploc bag, add the minced garlic and coat with olive oil. Marinate the pork overnight in the refrigerator or for at least one hour. Allow to sit at room temperature while prepping the grill. Preheat to medium high. Grill pork tenderloin 5-6 minutes on each side for a total of 25-30 minutes until nicely charred. Allow to rest for 5 minutes, slice and serve on a platter with fresh rosemary and thyme. Jill Valente, peanutbutterandjilly.com

In a glass baking dish, whisk together the Hoisin, soy sauce, honey, canola oil and freshly ground pepper. Place the steak in the marinade and turn to coat. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. If you get the chance during the day, turn over the steak pieces occasionally. An hour before grilling, remove the dish with the steak from the refrigerator. Preheat the grill or a stove-top grill pan. When the grill is hot, grill the steaks until medium-rare, about four minutes per side, depending on the steaks’ thickness. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes loosely covered with foil. Slice and serve. Jenna Helwig, rosaberry.com

Grilled Pork Tenderloin For our first suburban summer, the grilling aspirations were high. But by mid-June, my waistline started to resemble a hot dog. Enter pork tenderloin—healthy, affordable and fabulous.

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Sweet & Spicy Mango Grilled Chicken This sweet and spicy sauce came together in a snap during naptime and I let the chicken marinate in it all afternoon. I used fresh mangos from home and added some extra heat with chili powder and spicy ketchup.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4-6) 2 large bone-in chicken breasts or 4 to 6 boneless skinless breasts www.newyorkfamily.com

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2 medium mangos, peeled and cubed 4 garlic cloves, peeled 1 tsp chili powder 1/2 cup spicy ketchup 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes, if using non-spicy ketchup 1 tsp kosher salt Blitz all of the above ingredients in a blender. Use half of the sauce to marinate the chicken in a baking dish. Reserve the rest to brush on while grilling, about 10 minutes per side. Kelsey Banfield, thenaptimechef.com

Once water mixture becomes foamy mix together the dry and wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. Knead dough for 7-10 minutes until smooth. Place kneaded dough in a warm place and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Flatbread Slice zucchini into coins or using a peeler slice into long strips. Brush with oil and place on hot grill to form grill marks. Grate mozzarella with a cheese grater. Divide flatbread dough into 6 even pieces and roll out into long flatbreads or round pizza shapes, sprinkle with some cheese. Lay grilled zucchini pieces and onion over mozzarella, get creative! Sprinkle parmesan, salt and pepper to taste. Jessi Walter, tastebudscook.com

MiniMunchers Funky Chicken We call this the “funky” chicken in our household as the marinade looks a little wonky, but pay no mind as it tastes delicious.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 3-4) 1 egg 1 cup cooking oil 1 cup cider vinegar 1 TB sea salt 1 TB freshly ground pepper 1 tsp chicken seasoning 4 chicken breasts with skin

Grilled Zucchini Flatbread For the grill or the oven—wherever your heated hands (and hungry stomachs) beckon you.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 6) Flatbread Dough 1 cup warm water 1 TB sugar 1 TB active dry yeast 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 TB olive oil 1 tsp salt

Grilled Zucchini Topping 3 zucchinis 1 1/2 cup firm mozzarella 2 TB olive oil 1 pinch salt 1 pinch pepper 1/2 red onion or shallot, thinly sliced 2 TB parmesan, grated Dough In a large bowl slightly mix together the water, sugar and yeast. Wait 3-5 minutes until mixture becomes foamy. In another bowl combine flour, olive oil and salt.

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Put all ingredients in a bowl and marinate for at least 3 hours in the refrigerator. Save some in a separate bowl to put on chicken while grilling. Grill for 15 minutes on each side, high basting with extra marinade every 4-5 minutes. Carla Sullivan, minimunchers.com

Curried Chicken Salad Leftover grilled chicken? Don’t let it go to waste. Whip up this scrumptious salad for lunch the following day.

INGREDIENTS (Serves 4) 2 1/2 cups leftover marinated chicken, cubed 2 TB Safflower Mayonnaise 1 cup quartered red, seedless grapes 1/2 cup dried cranberries Dash of curry powder Handful of diced sugar snap peas or celery Combine ingredients and chill. Serve over a bed of greens or on crackers. Tracy Gary, intuition-nutrition.com FOR MORE EVERYDAY CULINARY INSPIRATION FROM OUR BLOGGERS, HEAD TO NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

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Come one, Come All

Road Trip-Worthy Family Fests

Maine Lobster Festival (August 3-7) This annual five-day claw fest boasts lobster eating contests, a little lobster diaper derby, a lobster crate race and over 20,000 pounds of seafood servings. Whew! Enjoy carnival rides and games, road races and tours of the U.S. Coast Guard station. Don’t miss out on the coronation of the 2011 Sea Goddess and watch as her and King Neptune, floats, drills and more march their way down Main Street in the big parade. Rockland, ME, mainelobsterfestival.com. Musikfest (August 5-14) As their website slings: “Musik + fest = awesome.” How can it not be? It’s a 10-day music palooza! The historic Bethlehem district will feature delicious eats, family fun and of course loads of ear candy—most of which is free. This year’s spectacular line-up includes tween pop star favorites Miranda Cosgrove and Nick Jonas. Also performing: Maroon 5, Train with Gavin DeGraw, and over 50 others! Bethlehem, PA, musikfest.org. Curious George Cottage Family Festival (August 13-14) Everyone’s favorite primate is ready to meet his doting fans. Delight over storytime, explore nature trails, get crafty and munch on yummy banana pancakes—all with the infamous Curious George by your side! Little ones can also sing and dance to the Mango Groove Steel Band and Vanessa Trien and the Jumping Monkeys. Other event highlights include planetarium shows, rocket launching, a mad science show plus a traveling barnyard. Don’t forget to visit the Man with the Yellow Hat! Waterville Valley, NH, thereycenter.org. Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival In New York (August 13-14) Over 1,000 participants will row-row-row their (dragon) boats at this annual festival. Win “oar” lose, this cultural and sporting celebration guarantees fun with live performances and ethnic food galore. Come rain or shine! Flushing, NY, hkdbf-ny.org. Atlantic City Air Show (August 17) For thrills at Atlantic City just look up as military and civilian pilots perform heart-stopping maneuvers, formation flying and solo routines. Catch performances and demonstrations by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the U.S. Army Golden Knights, Super Hornet and many more gravity-defying acts that will keep the whole family mesmerized. Atlantic City, NJ, atlanticcitynj.com.

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Willey’s Wildlife Photography

By Melanie Dostis Ready for one last hurrah before the summer season dwindles? The Northeast is awash with fabulous end-of-summer events! From boat racing (with a dash of dragon flair) to everyone’s favorite curious primate—your calendars will thank us.

Pittston Tomato Festival (August 18-21) Take a bite out of summer! Lap up all the delicious food, games (bingo, anyone?) and rides, as well as live entertainment. Don protective goggles and bombard friends with as many rotten tomatoes as you’d like or watch as little Mr. and Miss Tomato are crowned for the parade. On an even juicier note, proceeds benefit local charities. Pittston, PA, pittstontomatofestival.com. Dutchess County Fair (August 23-28) During this jam-packed six-day fest, take a leisurely stroll throughout the 162-acre fairgrounds. Complete with a craft tent, wildlife exhibition and carnival, the whole family can catch performances by country stars Kellie Pickler, Travis Tritt and legendary rockers REO Speedwagon. Rhinebeck, NY, dutchessfair.com. The Great New York State Fair (August 25-September 5) For a final taste of summer, the mother of all fairs supplies everything from a puppet parade to a petting zoo. Families can compete in a talent showcase or even a flower show. For musical musings, treat yourself to a concert featuring big name acts like Maroon 5, Journey and Lady Antebellum. Syracuse, NY, nysfair.org. American Folk Festival (August 26-28) With four unique stages, this festival brings music, song, and dance from all around the globe to Bangor. Purchase original handcrafted items and savor dozens of ethnic foods (like alligator bites and spanakopita). After getting your fill, stop by The Children’s Village—broken down into four cultural neighborhoods— for kiddie crafts like Mexican tissue-paper flowers. Bangor, ME, americanfolkfestival.com. Downtown Plymouth Waterfront Festival (August 27) Revel in all the family fun through favorites like the Ducky Dash, carnival rides and help pick Plymouth’s own idol in their 6th Annual Competition. Cap the summer off with live entertainment and a meet-and-greet with Wally the Green Monster. Plymouth, MA, plymouthwaterfrontfestival.com. www.newyorkfamily.com

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family

Keeping your Clan On The health & Wellness Track BY KellY FArrell In late summer when the kids are still off from school and daily schedules have run amok, it’s easy to cast exercise by the wayside in favor of lazy beach days or cool indoor afternoons. But don’t let health and wellness melt away under summer’s hot sun. To help you and the kids stay on track (and in shape!), we’ve gathered some fun ideas on how to keep families active straight through Labor Day.

For Moms (With The Kids) If little ones are in tow, look into a local branch of Stroller Strides—a program that specializes in working out with your baby. According to Stroller Strides National Fitness Director Farel Hruska, the hour-long workout uses the baby carriage, environment and resistance tubing to create a comprehensive mama workout. Not to mention the added social aspect. “So many [new moms] feel like the gym world–if they went before–doesn’t fit in her life very well anymore,” says Hruska. “Stroller Strides is an extraordinarily welcoming and supportive environment. It is built for every level of fitness to feel challenged and supported.” For more information, visit strollerstrides.com. For Moms (Without The Kids) Going solo? Give yourself a break Wednesday evenings (through September 21) with Yoga on the Hudson. Bring your own mat for these hour-long Hatha yoga classes beginning at 6:30pm. The sun setting over the river hits the perfect end-of-day note in a workout that can alleviate the stresses that come with motherhood. For more information, visit nycgovparks.org.

New York Family | August 2011

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For Dads Golf in the city is easier to find than you might have imagined. So next time you hit the green, say “no” to that convenient timesaver known as the golf cart. Although it makes the distance between holes so painless, you’re not doing yourself any favors health-wise. According to golflink.com, the average man will burn 1,442 calories in a round of golf if he nixes the cart and carries his clubs instead. Enlist the services of a caddie and you will still burn about 1,226. But riding in a cart dips total calories burned down to 882. If golf isn’t your thing, then consider joining an organized sport through NYC Social Sports Club. The organization offers co-ed sports leagues in everything from flag football to water polo. For more information on golf in the city, visit golfinnyc.com. For The Kids With the recent success of the U.S. women’s soccer team, kicking the black-and-white ball is once again the sport of summer. “Kids associate the summer months with fun and having a good time!” says Soc Roc soccer clinic Founder James Christie. “If we can get kids to be very active and exercising all summer, they will associate exercising with fun.” With so many great programs like Soc Roc, Super Soccer Stars, Carlos Oliviera Soccer Academy, Soccer by Coach Fher and Kick & Play, you might want to consider enrolling your child in this activity that is fun and exciting and also offers a good workout without too much competition or stress. For more information, visit jcsocroc.com.

www.newyorkfamily.com

7/22/11 5:21 PM

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teeny tumblers • mighty muscle movers rockin' rollers • jodi's jumpstart • tumbling tots creative cartwheeling kids • funtastic gymnastics totally tumbling • motion evolution • mad science songs for seeds • creation station • open play jodis to go • best birthdays ever! www.jodisgym.com 244 E. 84th St. NYC • 212.772.7633

7/21/11 4:17 PM

Summer’S

here!

For The Whole Family (With Young Children) Plan a weekly family outing to one of the city’s 54 public pools and organize competitive races for your water babies. Or head out to the park for some carefree games of tag, Red Light Green Light or Wiffle Ball. You’ll have so much fun reliving your own childhood and watching your tot create his own memories that you won’t even realize an afternoon of fitness has flown by. For more information, visit nycgovparks.org. For The Whole Family (With Older Kids) It’s easy to think of Manhattan as a concrete jungle, but there are plenty of ways to exercise and enjoy the island’s natural beauty, especially in summertime. Carolyn Brown, a nutritionist with Foodtrainers, suggests a family bike trip along the Hudson or free kayaking. At the Downtown Boathouse, take out kayaks on your own for 20-minute intervals, or enroll in introductory classes on Wednesday evenings. Kids under 16? They’ll need to go on a boat with an adult. Older rowers are free to take out their own. For more information, visit foodtrainers.net and downtownboathouse.org.

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As parents, we usually find ourselves doing things for others, mainly our children. But when selecting a personal trainer, it’s important to put yourself first. Here are some quick tips from Glenn Dickstein, Founder of NeighborhoodTrainers, on what to keep in mind when considering a fitness trainer. 1. Looking and feeling great are the ultimate goals most want to achieve through exercise. Following those, you’ll find that setting a good example for kids is another reason to get in shape. Whatever the reason, a certified personal trainer can help you jumpstart the process. 2. If you’re preparing to invest time and money in personal training, make sure you’re ready to commit, admit, and submit. You have to be willing to listen to and follow the directions of another person, which is sometimes the hardest part of training. Remember, you are hiring a professional who knows what is best for you. 3. Employing the services of a personal trainer produces benefits from the gym floor to the playroom floor. At the gym, your personal trainer will work with you to create a customized workout plan that will help you exercise more efficiently. Your newfound strength and energy will trickle down to other aspects of your life. Family time may become more active and interactive. 4. If you are a stay-at-home parent, currently homebound with a newborn, or if time is at a premium, a fitness professional will come right to your home. A lot of exercises can be performed in your own living room. 5. When planning your family budget, consider setting aside some of the “recreational” funds for a fitness stint. For the same price as your child’s semester of gymnastics, you can schedule some sessions with a trainer. Aim to have her create a customized workout plan that she can teach you to perform on your own. For more information, visit neighborhoodtrainer.com.

New York Family | August 2011

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7/21/11 4:18 PM

10 GREAT IDEAS

FOR AUGUST

August 6

SAND WARS

[Ages 6+] Head on down to Coney Island to witness a scintillating sculpture showdown. The Sand Sculpting Contest, one of the highlights of the famed Brooklyn amusement park, returns to celebrate 21 years. The sandy beach will swell with pros and pails (plus amateurs) who will compete to create soaring edifices and characters. At the end of the day, see who walks away with the grand cash prize. Beyond sandy fun, this day boasts rocking live music and kiddie entertainers. There’s also loads of goofy people-watching to be had as participants dressed as mermaids and cartoon favorites parade about. The event runs from 12-5pm, contest registration begins at 11am. (Coney Island Boardwalk and Beach, 718-266-4653, astelladevelopment.org) August 6, 13, 20

DANCING IN THE STREETS

[All Ages] Put on your fitness face and get ready to make the most of those humdrum August Saturdays. Experience the city like you never have before— sans traffic! From 7am-1pm you can walk, bike, run, party and laugh along the Summer Streets route, which spans from the Brooklyn Bridge to the tip-top of Central Park. The route also includes the option to use a low-traffic street to scoot over to the Hudson River Greenway, Harlem or Governors Island, so you can plan the length of your family’s open-air time as you wish. Get acquainted with green methods of city transportation (a la biking) or just work your muscles and enjoy sunny summer mornings. (Foley Square Rest Stop, Chambers and Centre Street, 212504-4115, nycgovparks.org) August 11

ALFRESCO BROADWAY

[All Ages] The best part of Broadway musicals are, well, the musical bits! From 12:30 to 1:30pm, catch the on-pitch stylings from Mamma Mia!, Mary Poppins, Avenue Q, and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Perfect for children (or adults) who may not have the attention span to sit through an entire performance, or for families who just want to get out and enjoy some (free) tunes in the fresh air. (Bryant Park, 212-768-4242, bryantpark.org) August 20

LET’S GO FLY A KITE

[All Ages] Whether you’re stressed, bored, happy or just searching for some family fun, the solution is simple: Go fly a kite! From 11am to 4pm, join NYC Parks for a day of soaring heights. The FlyNYC Festival will include workshops on the art of kite-making and the proper way to fly those paper diamonds high. It will also feature live entertainment and activities to set the tone for a light-hearted, breezy afternoon. (Riverside Park South, Pier I at 70th Street, 212-360-1319, nycgovparks.org)

New York Family | August 2011

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August 11

A CHORE THING

[All Ages] Ever feel like you were born in the wrong era? Get a taste of the early 1800s at the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum. Learn how hotels operated some 200 years ago by completing chores the hotel staff had to do back in the day with the museum’s “touch collection.” If your kids tear past the domesticity without giving it a second thought, remind them that some youth had to do 19th Century-style cooking, cleaning and laundry every day! This family program is free for museum members. For nonmuseum members, it is $10 for adults and $2 for children under 12. (Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, 421 East 61st Street, 212838-6878, mvhm.org)

www.newyorkfamily.com

7/25/11 9:40 AM

musical that tells the story of a modern Latin American teenager, Dora. Hedging away from her roots, Dora prefers to hang at the mall (oh, teens!) rather than respect her culture’s traditions. Showing that there’s “no place like home,” this magical journey sweeps Dora from her Quinceañera party to a strange new land where she and her new amigos must find La Maga while avoiding La Bruja’s devilish tricks. In order to return home, she must learn to embrace both sides of her cultural identity. Free tickets are available at the theater on a first come, first serve basis beginning one hour before the day’s first performance. (Lucile Lortel Theatre, 121 Christopher Street, 800-497-5007, theatreworksusa.org)

Mount Vernon Hotel Museum

August 20-21

HOLLER AT HARLEM

[All Ages] On Saturday, August 20, as part of Harlem Week, the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce will host Summer in the City—an all-day fair celebrating the community. Throughout the day there will be dancing, live music, food, games and arts & crafts. There will also be youth swimming demonstrations, a Black College Expo, and vendors selling jewelry, clothing and sculptures. The day concludes with an Outdoor Film Showcase at St. Nicholas Park. The following day (Sunday, August 21), the festivities continue with Harlem Day. Catch an international music concert, an adult fashion show and a film tribute to the late-great screen icon, Lena Horne. (Various locations throughout Harlem, 212-862-8477, harlemweek.com) August 27

AN OVERHEAD SMASH

August 13 and 14

LET’S BE CIVIL

[Ages 5+] This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Civil War—so what better time than the present to refresh your noggin about the War Between the States? The National Park Service, in conjunction with living historians, will bring the past to living color for families at Governors Island. Don’t miss historical weapon demos, music and other family-friendly activities. Use the weekend to get better acquainted with the men and women of Governors Island and the members of the Confederate Army who were imprisoned there. (Governors Island, 212-825-3045, govisland.com) Through August 19

MOVE OVER, DOROTHY

[Ages 7+] TheaterWorksUSA presents The Wizard of Oz like you’ve never seen it before. “The Yellow Brick Road” is a salsa and meringue-infused

Through End of September

BUILD A GORILLA

[All Ages] LEGOs have taken over the Bronx Zoo! The Wildlife Conservation Society and LEGO have teamed up to create The Great Summer Zoofari: A LEGO Wildlife Expedition, an initiative designed to connect visitors to endangered wildlife in a fun and creative way. The Zoo is currently exhibiting life-sized animal replicas made out of LEGOs. These sculptures are displayed alongside their real-life counterparts; pink flamingos by the Pheasant Aviary (standing in water!), a giant, sculpted gorilla next to the Congo Gorilla Forest. The Zoo will provide a “Passport” to Zoofari participants, which will guide them through the exhibit. Children can also help LEGO Master Builders construct a huge Mystery Mural in the Dancing Crane Pavilion. (Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, 718-367-1010, bronxzoo.com)

Bronx Zoo www.newyorkfamily.com

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Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day

[All Ages] Start off the biggest tennis tournament of the year with the pros at Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day! From 9:30am-12:30pm there will be free tennis matches, live music and attractions throughout the grounds. In the afternoon, Arthur Ashe Stadium will come alive with just-for-fun exhibition matches and skills competitions with Andy Roddick, Kim Clijsters, Novak Djokovik and other tennis stars and celebrities. All ages and skill levels will be accommodated—The Hess Express Obstacle Course will challenge kids to test their agility, balance, running and tennis skills, while USTA Serves Tennis Skills is designed especially for very young children or those with disabilities. And if you get all tennised out, take a break with face painting, hair braiding, juggling and plate spinning, player meet-and-greets and balloon artists. (USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Flushing Meadows Corona Park near 111th Street and 49th Avenue, 718-595-2420, usopen.org)

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

newyorkfamily.com.

August 2011 | New York Family

7/25/11 9:40 AM

Theatre, 250 West 52nd Street.

mamma mia!

There’s not much to the simple plot about a woman finding her real father as she prepares to wed, but ABBA’s tunes keep the feet tapping. For tickets, call 212-239-6200 or visit telecharge.com. Winter Garden Theatre, 1634 Broadway.

sisTer acT

You’ll laugh and cheer as Disco queen Deloris transforms a convent’s drab choir into a glamorous singing sensation. For tickets, call 212-239-6200 or visit telecharge.com. The Broadway Theatre, 1681 Broadway.

The addams family

TheaTers and Performances cobble hill cinemas

Beginning August 12, catch Sarah’s Key, about a journalist (Kristin Scott Thomas) who uncovers the shocking story of a Jewish family during the Holocaust. The film may not be appropriate for younger kids, but the older set and parents can appreciate the historical aspect. 265 Court Street, Brooklyn, 718-596-9113, cobblehilltheatre.com.

doctor’s office. Weekends through August 28, families can laugh (and wince) with Pinkalicious as she struggles to fight pink fever. The Union Square Theatre, 100 East 17th Street, pinkaliciousthemusical.com.

showsToPPers for kids for all ages

lincoln cenTer

gazillion bubble show

On August 6, families can jam to the urban folk music of Tres Leches. The creative trio appeals to all ages. The David Rubenstein Atrium, Broadway at 62nd Street, 212-875-5456, lincolncenter.org.

This high-impact show features light effects, lasers and, of course, millions of bubbles, large and small, to create a dazzling production. For tickets, call 212-239-6200. New World Stages, 340 West 50th Street.

PuPPeTworks

John TarTaglia’s imaginocean

The classic tale of “Little Red Riding Hood” will steal the stage on August 6, 7, 27 and 28. The show is appropriate for ages 3 & up. 338 Sixth Avenue, Brooklyn, 718-965-3391, puppetworks.org.

skirball cenTer for The Performing arTs

This NYU-based cultural center will shake and shimmy on August 13 with Blaze the Stage. The show will spotlight hip-hop and R&B acts of BET/106 & Park fame, and will include special appearances from Blind Fury and Travis Porter. 566 LaGuardia Place, 212-352-3101, skirballcenter.nyu.edu.

symPhony sPace

On August 6 and 28, Symphony Space will present The Kid/A Dog’s Life in high-definition. See just how fun and timeless Charlie Chaplin slapstick is with newfound picture clarity. Peter Jay Sharpe Theatre, 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, 212-864-5400, symphonyspace.org.

ViTal TheaTre comPany

Pinkalicious can’t control the urge to eat pink cupcakes, and her indulgence lands her at the

New York Family | August 2011

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Watch and laugh as this kooky, beloved clan sings and dances its way around confusion. For tickets, call 212-575-9200 or visit ticketmaster. com. Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, 205 West 46th Street.

wicked

The Wicked Witch of the West finally commands the spotlight. For tickets, call 212-307-4100 or visit ticketmaster.com. Gershwin Theatre, 222 West 51st Street.

for Tweens billy ellioT

A funny and heartwarming musical about a boy with a dream and a talent for dance, with a musical score written by Elton John. For tickets, call 212-239-6200, or visit telecharge.com. Imperial Theatre, 249 West 45th Street.

A live black-light puppet show chronicles the undersea adventures of aquatic friends Tank, Bubbles and Dorsel. For tickets, call 212239-6200 or visit telecharge.com. New World Stages, 340 West 50th Street.

mary PoPPins

The Supernanny takes to the stage in this hit musical by Disney. For tickets, call 212-3074747 or visit ticketmaster.com. New Amsterdam Theatre, 214 West 42nd Street.

The lion king

Disney’s blockbuster movie on Broadway is a combination of puppetry, actors and special effects–a truly magical experience. For tickets, call 212-307-4747 or visit ticketmaster.com. Minskoff Theatre, 200 West 45th Street.

The book of mormon

for ages 8 and uP

From the creators of “South Park,” this religious musical satire tells the story of two young Mormons who travel to Northern Uganda to spread the gospel. For tickets, call 212-239-6200 or visit telecharge.com. Eugene O’Neill Theatre, 230 West 49th Street.

caTch me if you can

The PhanTom of The oPera

Follow con artist Frank Abagnale as he passes for an airline pilot, a doctor and a lawyer, but is hunted by an FBI agent. For tickets, call 212757-8646 or visit ticketmaster.com. Neil Simon

The longest-running show in Broadway history delivers mystery, love and heartbreak. For tickets, call 212-239-6200 or visit telecharge.com. Majestic Theatre, 247 West 44th Street. www.newyorkfamily.com

7/22/11 3:56 PM

“Young, first-time theatergoers will love THE OHMIES!” - Time Out NY Kids

“Sweet and Sincere.”

Show Times

Thursday: 11AM Saturday: 10AM, 12PM & 3PM Sunday: 12PM & 3PM

Extended thru Sept. 25!

- The NY Times

“Critics Pick!” - NY Magazine

Come join the ultimate play date and dance, stretch and giggle with your new BFFs - The Ohmies. It’s much more than theater; it’s a one-of-a-kind interactive musical experience for kids ages 3 to 8. We’ll have so much fun together!

For tickets: ticketcentral.com 212.279.4200

Peter Jay Sharp Theater 416 West 42nd Street

THEOHMIES.COM

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“Intergalactic Superstars!”- CBS TV

7/13/11 10:39:31 AM

Family Fun for Ages 5-105!

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Seeing is believing

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

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6/22/11 1:05:44 PM

7/21/11 4:20 PM

museums and attractions american museum of natural History

More than 200 live frogs, from the tiny golden Mantella frog to the enormous African bullfrog, are featured in “Frogs: A Chorus of Colors.” Central Park West and 79th Street, 212-7695100, amnh.org.

Bronx Zoo

Kids will go wild for “Madagascar!” Visit wildlife—lemurs, cockroaches and crocs—from the world’s 4th largest island. 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, 718-220-5100, bronxzoo.com.

Brooklyn cHildren’s museum On August 12, enjoy “Flamenco Vivo” with Carlota Santana, a performance that upholds the purity and traditions of classical Spanish dance while pushing the art form’s boundaries. 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Brooklyn, 718-735-4402, brooklynkids.org.

cHildren’s museum of tHe arts

For the rest of the summer, check out CMA’s Free Art Island Outpost on Governors Island every Friday-Sunday. Don’t miss the animation & film lab in the Our Lady of the Sea Chapel. 182 Lafayette Street, 212-274-0986, cmany.org.

cHildren’s museum of manHattan

On August 27, meet costumed character Curious George at 11am, 2pm or 3:30pm. 212 West 83rd Street, 212-721-1234, cmom.org.

One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure” and take an imaginary trip to the moon with Big Bird, Elmo, and Elmo’s friend from China, Hu Hu Zhu. Liberty State Park, 222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City, 201-200-1000, lsc.org.

tHe metropolitan museum of art

Beginning August 30, The Met will debut the “9/11 Peace Story Quilt” Exhibit. In collaboration with New York City students, the quilt poignantly conveys the importance of cross-cultural and religious communication to achieve peace. 1000 Fifth Avenue, 212-535-7710, metmuseum.org.

tHe morGan liBrary and museum

Every Saturday in August from 2-4pm, the dropin program “Colors a la Cart” invites families to explore a collection of natural dye sources as well as centuries-old dyeing recipes. 225 Madison Avenue, 212-685-0008, themorgan.org.

museum of tHe city of new york

On August 13 at 2pm, families can design their own building, inspired by the architecture of America’s past at the “American Style: Family Workshop.” 1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street, 212-534-1672, mcny.org.

new york aquarium

Visit the Touch Pool where children can touch sea stars and horseshoe crabs while talking with volunteers about sea life. 602 Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, 718-265-34l74, nyaquarium.com.

the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden. Create a pollinator puppet and pot a plant! 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, 718-817-8700, nybg.org.

new york Hall of science

Forge family fun through do-it-yourself projects and design-based challenges featured at the Maker Days on August 6-7 and August 20-21. 47-01 111th Street, Queens, 718-699-0005, nyscience.org.

new york police museum

Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Motorcycle Squad! The NYPD exhibit will feature vintage department-used motorcycles, including a late 1940s-model classic Red Indian Motorcycle. 100 Old Slip between Walter Street and South Street, 212-480-3100, nycpm.org.

ripley’s Believe it or not!

Watch out for a Transformer invasion! Ripley’s Times Square is receiving a new Transformer exhibit—statues made from recycled car and truck parts. 234 West 42nd Street, 212-398-3133, ripleysnewyork.com.

ruBin museum of art

Explore Chinese culture at “Quentin Roosevelt’s China: Ancestral Realms of the Naxi.” Features 40-foot long painted scrolls, pictograph-filled manuscript pages and interactive stations where kids can follow the path a young Quentin Roosevelt took when he journeyed to Lijiang, China in 1939. Kids can create their own messages using the Naxi pictographic script. 150 West 17th Street, 212-620-5000, rmanyc.org.

new york Botanical Garden Kids can learn how flowers become fruits in

el museo del Barrio

El Barrio Today Arts Cluster invites you to come explore their eclectic neighborhood. Highlights include the Graffiti Wall of Fame, Julia de Burgos Boulevard and local murals. Saturdays from 11:30am-1:00pm. 1230 Fifth Avenue, 212-831-7272, elmuseo.org.

GuGGenHeim museum

On August 14, join the Guggenheim for “Flat and Fat.” Age-appropriate discussion will accompany perusing flat (2-D) and fat (3-D) works around the museum. 1071 Fifth Avenue, 212423-3500, guggenheim.org.

intrepid sea, air & space museum

August 7 is Coast Guard Appreciation Day; get hands-on Search and Rescue demonstrations. On August 20 and 21, come for Police Appreciation Day. Meet members of the department, including the Scuba team and Canine unit. Pier 86, 12th Avenue and 46th Street, 877-957SHIP, intrepidmuseum.org.

liBerty science center

On Sundays in August, visit the “One World,

New York Family | August 2011

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www.newyorkfamily.com

7/22/11 4:49 PM

Broadwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Longest-Running Musical...EVER.

Telecharge.com or (212) 239-6200 MAJESTIC THEATRE, 247 West 44TH St. www.PhantomBroadway.com

THE

L ast W O R D

IN SEARCH OF A

A Psychologist Talks Through Her Unexpected Parenting Dilemma

BY DARCY LOCKMAN Not so long ago, when my daughter was 16 months old, she began swinging her hand at my face as I nursed her. Purposefully, I thought. Pointedly. She smacked me once, and then again, turning her eyes up toward mine and grinning in that devilish way she did when she cruised over to the TV and held out her hand as if to touch its flat screen. Her father and I had been encouraging her to keep her hands off. “No touching the TV, Liv,” we’d say sternly. “Do you want a time out?” She’d giggle and say “No,” shaking her head so emphatically that her curls bobbed. But she usually touched the set anyway. A “time out” meant sixty seconds on the couch. We weren’t sure she was able to make sense of the concept yet, though it felt

My hand…if whisked away without warning, might impede her ability to trust. like something we should’ve known, given that we are both psychologists. In grad school, where we met, we studied psychoanalytic theory, which has a lot to say about the emotional development of children, but less about learning theory tactics like negative punishment. I Googled “time out” but the results were mixed. What I couldn’t look up was how to resolve the inner conflict about my baby hitting me: I didn’t like being struck, but if I stopped her was I communicating that it wasn’t okay to express her ambivalent feelings toward me? I presented my dilemma to my friend, Megan, who is not a psychologist and doesn’t have children. “Well you don’t want her hitting other kids, right? She’s got to learn.” Megan was always so reasonable. I nodded, but secretly wasn’t sure that even the gentle blows delivered to her pre-school classmates were problematic, at least until she had the vocabulary to put the feelings behind hitting into words.

New York Family | August 2011

THELASTWORD_0811.indd 74

I ran my ideas by a supervisor I sometimes work with—more than a little abashed to be bringing up my personal concerns—but I thought another psychologist would understand. “Try telling her ‘that hurts Mommy,’” he suggested. Empathy? His kids were older. That probably worked with them. Some time went by and my daughter started physical therapy; at 18 months she still wasn’t walking independently. She’d stroll long distances but slowly, and always holding my finger. “I think she’s just scared,” her therapist told me. “Start pulling your hand away.” She might as well have told me to throw my baby girl into a swimming pool, or to pretend to abandon her on the subway. My hand, I thought, if whisked away without warning, might impede her ability to trust. How could I do that to my child, who I loved to the moon and back? “It’s just the first of a series of things you’ll have to do that will seem mean but are for her own good,” my mother said to me in a singsong voice on the phone. I held back the first thing that came to mind, which was biting and had to do with her apparent wish to justify all the not-nice things she’d done to me as a child. They were only to promote your growth. I’d learned long ago, and many times over, that my mother was not comfortable with my ambivalence. Talking about my daughter with her often felt loaded. My therapist and I shared a laugh about my mom’s comment. Her office was the place I needed to be airing my idiosyncratic parenting concerns. I thought they were the worries of one who is (perhaps overly) informed, when really they were rooted in my own experiences of being mothered, by someone who wasn’t as thoughtful about her parenting as I would’ve liked. In the end, I decided to stop my daughter from swinging her little hand at me. “No hitting,” I’d say. She kept trying anyway. Darcy Lockman is a clinical psychologist in practice in New York City. Her memoir about training to be a therapist will be published by Doubleday in 2012. www.newyorkfamily.com

7/22/11 2:08 PM

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