New York Family January 2014 by New York Family

CAMP COUNTDOWN

WINTER FUN GUIDE JANUARY 2014

established 1986

NEWYORKFAMILY.COM

WIN A

$1,000 REGISTRY AT giggle page 8

SHO’

&TELL

Getting personal with designer and mom-about-town Shoshanna Gruss

THE

BABY

LISTENER CLASS-IFIED

INFO

An insider’s guide to the best winter classes for kids

MUST READ The Grandma Who Knows Best

Weill Music Institute Stephanie Berger

Ages 5–10 Saturday, February 1 at 1 PM Zankel Hall

Fami ly

Bang on a Can All-Stars

Conc ert

Freely crossing the boundaries between classical, jazz, rock, world, and experimental music, New York’s amplified ensemble Bang on a Can All-Stars is recognized worldwide for its ultra-dynamic live performances of today’s most innovative music. Pre-concert activities at 12 PM.

Tickets: $12, $18 Lead funding for Carnegie Hall Family Concerts has been provided by The Irene Diamond Fund. Carnegie Hall Family Concerts are also made possible, in part, by endowment gifts from The Irene Diamond Fund, Mr. and Mrs. Lester S. Morse Jr., and the Henry and Lucy Moses Fund. Thanks to New York City Department of Homeless Services for supporting young fathers and their families at this concert David Lang is the holder of the 2013–2014 Richard and Barbara Debs Composer’s Chair at Carnegie Hall..

Success Starts With

THINKING O N E M OV E AHEAD

An exceptional choice for free public education in your neighborhood.

DISCOVER MORE AND APPLY NOW SuccessAcademies.org

contents

JANUARY newyorkfamily.com

pg.45

pg.14

pg.38

FEATURES 38 | Sho’ Time As she celebrates her clothing line’s 15th anniversary, designer—and New York mom of three—Shoshanna Gruss opens up about fashion, family, and why she never makes New Year’s resolutions 45 | Class-ified Information Our guide to classes—for kids of all ages—has the inside scoop on fresh, fabulous, and just plain fun offerings for the New Year

FAMILY FUN GUIDE 10 | 10 Great Events For January Learn to be an NFL official, “Mysteries of the Unseen World” at IMAX, “The Little Prince: A New York Story,” and more 14 | Winter Fun Guide Your guide to the season’s best sledding, skiing, winter fests, hot cocoa sips, and more

HOME & AWAY 58 | Camp Countdown 10 things to consider when choosing a summer camp

New York Family | January 2014

pg.10 62 | Moms Of Real Estate: Part 3 Two NYC moms in the thick of the real estate industry share their tips and tales about raising a family in the city

COLUMNS 6 | Editor’s Note A vote for the city

30 | Growing Up Who better than Dr. Karen Rancourt, a loving grandmother with a PhD in child development, to write a popular column about the thorny issues between parents and grandparents?

8 | Events & Offers A $1,000 giggle registry giveaway, January Camp Fairs, and the scoop on signing up for our e-newsletters

34 | A Special Place Since its founding 10 years ago, giggle has been the retail gold standard for new and expectant parents shopping for newborns and beyond

22 | It’s My Party Birthday celebrations at NY Kids’ Club, Central Park, and Pop Star Parties

64 | Last Word A local mom reconsiders her relationship with white wine

24 | Scoop A new tech toy, a personalized book featuring the illustrator of the Harry Potter series, a buzz-worthy cartoon, and more

Cover Photo by Sarah Merians Photography On Shoshanna Gruss: (on cover) Shoshanna Denim Ombre Tweed Helena dress (Resort 2014); Dolce & Gabbana shoes; Shourouk necklace; Graff wedding bands; (above left) Shoshanna Winter Crepe Combo Tia dress; Anndra Neen bracelet; Jimmy Choo shoes

27 | Parent In Profile Acclaimed baby listener and behavioral scientist Priscilla Dunstan has cracked the code on the cries of infants

www.newyorkfamily.com

jazz for young people® series

who is

JANUARY 2014

dave

Editor and co-publisher Eric Messinger

brubeck?

emessinger@ manhattanmedia.com senior Editor Bridget Moriarity bmoriarity@ manhattanmedia.com associate Editor Mia Weber mweber@ manhattanmedia.com Art Director George W. Widmer gwidmer@ manhattanmedia.com

Contributing PhotographerS Heidi Green, Thaddeus Harden, Michael Jurick, Sarah Merians, Andrew Schwartz Contributing Writers Leah Black, Emanuelle Block, Anna Boisseau, Stacey Gawronski, Danielle Kraese, Gavriella Mahpour, Lorraine Duffy Merkl

Publisher John Hurley For Information On The Baby Show 212.268.3086, jhurley@ manhattanmedia.com Associate Publisher Mary Ann Oklesson maoklesson @ manhattanmedia.com Special Projects Director Alex Schweitzer aschweitzer@ manhattanmedia.com SALES ASSISTANT Erik Bliss ebliss@ manhattanmedia.com Circulation Aaron Pollard apollard @ manhattanmedia.com Business Manager Shawn Scott sscott@ manhattanmedia.com

k bec bru dave

n tio ec oll sc g g dri nk • fra

Accounts Manager Kathy Pollyea kpollyea @ manhattanmedia.com

Manhattan Media

feb 8 • 1pm & 3pm

Chairman of the board Richard Burns

the jazz at lincoln center orchestra with wynton marsalis introduce and illuminate dave brubeck’s extraordinary life to young and old alike. CenterCharge 212-721-6500 Box Office Broadway at 60th, Ground fl

Tickets start at $12 4

New York Family | January 2014

jalc.org

Official Media Partner

Lead Corporate Sponsor

Chief executive officer Joanne Harras Direcetor of digital Dennis Rodriguez

New York Family is a division of Manhattan Media, publishers of AVENUE magazine, Mitzvah magazine, and The Blackboard Awards. © 2014 Manhattan Media, LLC | 72 Madison Avenue, 11th Floor New York, NY 10016 | t: 212.268.8600 | f: 212.268.0577 www.manhattanmedia.com

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A Vote For The City As someone who was born and raised in Brooklyn and now raises his two children in Manhattan, I’m sure I’m especially sensitive to the patronizing inflections that so often seem to accompany questions about what it’s like to raise children in the city. But over the years, I’ve fine-tuned an answer that for me cuts to the heart of it without returning some obnoxious intimations of my own. It comes down to this: We like it. If we didn’t, we’d move. But all in, we do. A lot. I do wonder though if my children would vote for a city childhood. At age 9, my son is all about sports and video games; I imagine he’d be ecstatic about a suburban basement with a boy cave to call his own. Meanwhile, my 13-year-old daughter longs for a bedroom that she doesn’t have to share with her younger brother. To compensate, she basically avoids their room when he’s in there. Even at the end of the night she minimizes her time with him in their bedroom by waiting until he’s asleep before returning to go to bed herself. It’s the primal hope of all parents that their children like their lives. When I think about the

state of my clan, I’d have to say that my son has some grumpy tendencies worth heeding as we head into the New Year, while my daughter seems okay. No, actually, she seems more than okay. On a recent Saturday, sunny but cold, she and I were walking along First Avenue, amid the usual scrum of weekend people, when she turned to me and said: “I just can’t imagine why anyone wouldn’t want to live in the city.” Oh, I could think of a On set with Shoshanna Gruss: few reasons, especially thankfully she didn’t measure for kids who haven’t my waistline. had the good fortune to grow up in a neighborhood of safe streets and good schools. But in the moment, relishing how she has bought into the family plan, all I could manage was an exuberant: “Exactly!” Have a Happy January! Eric Messinger Editor, emessinger@manhattanmedia.com

Winter Semester begins January 6th Spring Semester begins April 14th Sign up TODAY for a class in Music, Art, Gymnastics, Cooking or Early Preschool Enrichment

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Call us today at 212.737.2989 or visit us at www.74magic.com Under the red canopy at 510 East 74th Street

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editor’s note

UPPER EAST SIDE asphaltgreen.org

events & offers WIN $1,000 TOWARD A REGISTRY AT giggle! 2013 marks the 10th anniversary year of giggle, the boutique retailer known for everything nursery and baby and their special knack for curating high-quality and delightful products. Both online and in person, giggle is a one-stop shop for everything from cribs, strollers, and layettes to bedding, decor, and keepsakes. Along with our friends at Mommybites, we have a very exciting giveaway to offer readers: $1,000 toward giggle’s registry! To enter, visit newyorkfamily.com and click on the Contests and Giveaways link. Deadline to enter is Friday, January 31. Good luck! And for more on giggle, check out our Q&A with owner Ali Wing, pictured, on page 34.

Weekly Scoop on Wednesdays For parents with children from toddlers to tweens, the Weekly Scoop is a trove of ideas and resources for raising kids and enjoying family life in the city, including tips on classes, parties, shopping, education, family fun, hot topics, and parental musings—not to mention weekly giveaways. Weekend Planner on Thursdays For parents with children of all ages, our Weekend Planner offers a brief but incredibly handy tip sheet of our favorite family events and activities around town over the weekend. New York Family Baby on Fridays For new and expectant parents (with children up to toddler age), our baby newsletter offers a lively mix of pre- and post-natal resources, parenting tips, news, shopping, and personal essays.

New York Family | January 2014

Justin Winslow

The best way to follow New York Family on a steady basis is by signing up for our free weekly e-newsletters at newyorkfamily.com/newslettersign-up. Covering parent needs from bump to tween, the newsletters include:

READY, SET, CAMP FAIRS! Finding the right summer camp for your child is one of the most special gifts that you as a parent can give them. With all the options out there—day or sleepaway, city or countryside, single sex or co-ed, specialty or general, two, four, or eight weeks—a great way to begin your search and better understand your options is by visiting one of our upcoming Camp Fairs, which we sponsor with the American Camp Association of New York & New Jersey. In January we’ll have one fair in Tribeca (1/25) and on the Upper West Side (1/26), then, in February, we’ll have one on the Upper East Side (2/8) and in Park Slope (2/9). At each fair, parents can connect with more than 40 camps from 12-3pm. To learn more and to secure your spot, register at newyorkfamilycamps.com www.newyorkfamily.com

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The Little Prince - ©Estate of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry; photo by Graham S. Haber, 2013

family fun

MUSEUMS

MUSIC

THEATER

Clockwise from top left: Nitro Circus Live (MSG); “Mysteries of the Unseen World” (AMNH); Bobby McFerrin returns to Jazz at Lincoln Center; The Little Prince: A New York Story (Morgan Library); “Bessie’s Big Shot” (Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre)

©Petra Hajaka

FOOD

Aylin Gucalp

ATTRACTIONS

Great Events for January By Emanuelle Block

A BEAR-Y GOOD TIME

VROOM, VROOM

NFL OFFICIAL IN TRAINING

JANUARY 4, 5, 11 & 12 [Ages 3 & Up] Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Little Wee Bear go out for a morning walk, hoping by the time they get home their porridge will be cool enough to eat. But they don’t realize a mischievous curly-haired girl is on the way. Things are about to get messy before the Bear family has a chance to eat their porridge! Kids and families will enjoy Puppetworks’ hand-puppet adaptation of Robert Southey’s beloved 1837 fairytale, Goldilocks & the Three Bears. Children $8, adults $9; show times 12:30pm & 2:30pm, Puppetworks, 338 Sixth Ave. at 4th Street, Brooklyn, 718-965-3391, puppetworks.org

JANUARY 8 [Ages 12 & Up] After selling out shows across the globe, the high-octane Nitro Circus Live is coming to Madison Square Garden on its first North American tour. X Games medalist Travis Pastrana hosts the action sports extravaganza, which features the cast of the namesake MTV series, plus 40 of the world’s zaniest action sports stars in freestyle motocross, BMX, and skating. The fearless antics feature snow skis, kids’ tricycles, boogie boards, and even a Barbie car. From $49; 7:30pm, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, 800-745-3000, nitrocircus.com

JANUARY 8 to FEBRUARY [All Ages] With “You Make the Call: Learn to Be An NFL Official,” the Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) lets visitors go “under the hood” and make game calls in a stylized rendition of the sideline instant replay systems used by real NFL officials. There’s a video kiosk and obstacle course designed to help inspire kids to get more active and healthy. There might even be surprise visits by NFL reps, officials, coaches, and current and former players for special programs, clinics, and activities. The exhibit hopes to help children and their parents gain an understanding

New York Family | January 2014

continued on page 12

www.newyorkfamily.com

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10 Great Events

family fun continued from page 10

that good decisions make a critical difference in a game and also in their daily lives. Free with admission; Tuesday Sunday 10am-5pm (7pm Saturdays), 212 West 83rd Street, 212-721-1223, cmom.org

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL JANUARY 10 to JUNE [All Ages] Glimpse up close the thread of a spider’s web and the splatter of a shattering pitcher of milk with the American Museum of Natural History’s new IMAX film, “Mysteries of the Unseen World,” which takes an incredible look at things that are normally too slow, too fast, too small, or too vast to be seen by the human eye. Whether offering magnified views of shark skin and a fruit fly’s eye, or slow-motion footage of popcorn popping and lightning striking, the film uses high-speed and time-lapse photography—inviting you to see the world in a whole new way. Children $16, adults $27 (includes museum admission); various show times between 10:30am and 4:30pm, Central Park West at 79th Street, 212-769-5100, amnh.org

but not for Miss Ivory Tinklefinger, the star of “Still Awake Still!” With nothing but a grand piano and her sweet and soothing singing voice, the “Queen of Sleep” can calm the rowdiest of children…until treble ensues! To her dismay but the audience’s delight, the piano plays more than just musical notes in this amusing show. Commissioned by the Sydney Opera House, it’s a madcap cabaret for kids. From $14; 11am and 3pm, the New Victory Theater, 209 West 42nd Street, 646-223-3010, newvictory.org

A WINTRY TWIST JANUARY 18 to FEBRUARY 9 [All Ages] In a far-away land, a long time ago, shivering townsfolk travel to the Ministry of Winter to lodge a formal complaint to save the world from the coldest season! A children’s musical based on the book of the same title, The Gift of Winter, by John Leach and Jean Rankin, features TADA! favorite tunes “The Answer is Snow” and “Down with Winter.” Children from $8, adults from $20; various show times between 10am and 6pm, TADA! Youth Theater, 15 West 28th Street, 212-252-1619, tadatheater.com

A GIRL-COW TALE

SWEET LULLABY JANUARY 18-20 [Ages 4 & Up] Getting kids to sleep can be rough,

New York Family | January 2014

THE PRINCE OF NYC JANUARY 24 to APRIL 27 [All Ages] Readers throughout the world have been charmed by The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s tale of a cosmic traveler who comes to Earth in search of friendship and understanding. Did you know that French-born Saint-Exupéry wrote and illustrated the famous story right here in New York City? The 1943 novella was first published in the U.S., before France, both in English and French. In “The Little Prince: A New York Story,” view the original manuscript and watercolor drawings. Explore the American origins of a poignant story that timelessly reminds us: what matters most can only be seen with the heart. Children ages 12 and under free, adults $18; Tuesday Thursday 10:30am-5pm, Friday 10:30am-9pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-6pm, the Morgan Library & Museum, 225 Madison Avenue, 212-685-0008, themorgan.org

SHOWING SPIRIT JANUARY 24 [All Ages] Returning to Jazz at Lincoln Center for a second season, legendary vocalist and composer Bobby McFerrin reimagines an American tradition with a performance from his new recording “spirityouall.” With iconic songs like “He’s Got the Whole World In His Hands” and “Every Time I Feel The Spirit,” along with original tunes, McFerrin explores his roots in rock, folk, funk, and bluegrass. From $30; 8pm, Broadway and 60th, 212-721-6500, jalc.org

events

JANUARY 14 to JUNE 29 [Ages 3-9] Presented at the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre with circus-themed puppets, City Parks Foundation’s original production “Bessie’s Big Shot” follows Bessie the cow’s dream of joining the circus. Can she lift more than strong man Ziegfried, fly on a trapeze high above the crowd, or train Munson the monkey? Cheer on Bessie as she attempts the impossible and searches for her special talents. Children under 12 years $7, adults $10; Tuesday-Friday 10:30am and 12pm, Saturday and Sunday 1pm, Central Park (81st Street and Central Park West), 212988-9093, cityparksfoundation.org

The DiMenna Children’s History Museum

Party Time JANUARY 25 [All Ages] Get ready to celebrate! The second annual DiMenna Children’s History Museum Family Benefit takes place this month. Parents and children are welcome to dress up in historical costumes, make ice cream, meet living history re-enactors, and explore special exhibitions. Children from $75, adults from $150; 11am, DiMenna Children’s History Museum, 170 Central Park West at Richard Gilder Way, 212-873-3400, nyhistory.org

For more event picks for families, check out our Family Calendar at newyorkfamily.com/events www.newyorkfamily.com

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family fun

Skating at Trump Rink.

Winter’s Calling Lace Up Your Skates Outdoor Rinks: The world-famous Rink at Rockefeller Center has been a classic New York City experience for generations. Check out SkySkate, which also lets you venture to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. 45 Rockefeller Plaza, rockefellercenter.com The tradition of ice skating at the iconic Trump Rink (formerly known as Wollman rink) with its skyline views is as old as the park itself. It also boasts the largest instructional skating program in the entire country! Central Park South and 6th Avenue, wollmanskatingrink.com Bryant Park’s transformation into a winter wonderland has the Bank of America Winter Village’s rink as its centerpiece and features free admission, in addition to high-quality rental skates, skating shows, special events, and activities. Between 40th and 42nd Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues, wintervillage.org The South Street Seaport Ice Rink just opened this past November. Admission is free everyday for children under 5, though there is a skate rental fee. Regular admission is $10. 19 Fulton Street, southstreetseaport.com

New York Family | January 2014

Whether You’re Braving the Cold Or Taking Shelter, Here’s Our Guide To The Best Cold-Weather Fun In The City And Beyond The Standard Ice Rink is a 3,000-square-foot rink that belongs to the 18-story hotel towering over the Highline. Alpine Kaffeeklatsch, a rinkside cafe, serves up cold-weather favorites. 848 Washington Street, standardhotels.com Open every day, Van Cortlandt Park Ice Skating Rink—the only one in the Bronx—is now in its second season. 242nd Street and Broadway, Bronx, vcpicerink.com Williamsburg now has North Brooklyn’s first and only outdoor ice skating experience: McCarren Rink. The 7,200-square-foot rink sits beside the renovated McCarren Park pool and bathhouse. 776 Lorimer Street, Brooklyn, osanb.org Indoor Rinks: Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers, with its expansive views of the Hudson River, is the year-round indoor skating spot in Manhattan. The twin-rink facility operates seven days a week, welcoming skaters of all ages and abilities for drop-in skating, figure skating lessons, skating school, and youth hockey, as well as birthday parties. 23rd Street and Hudson River Park, chelseapiers.com continued on page 16

www.newyorkfamily.com

Scandinavian House/the American-Scandinavian Foundation, 2013

continued from page 14

An art workshop at Scandinavia House.

The breathtaking World Ice Arena, located in Flushing Meadows’ Corona Park, has it all: an abundance of public skating, as well as skating lessons, parties, and hockey leagues. 13135 Avery Avenue, Queens, worldice.com Long after the theme parks have closed for the season, people come to Coney Island to enjoy Abe Stark Rink, a 40-year-old seaside rink. It’s open through March for weekend-only skating, with sessions lasting for three hours. Coney Island Boardwalk and West 19th Street, Brooklyn, nycgovparks.org The Staten Island Skating Pavilion is the only rink on Staten Island to stay open year-round. It offers public skating only on weekends and during special holiday sessions. 3080 Arthur Kill Road, Staten Island, thepavilion.org -Lorraine Duffy Merkl

It’s All Downhill From Here When it comes to Central Park, take your pick of where you want to stage your snow day—simply find an incline and sled to your heart’s content. However, there are some “official” slopes designated in the Park. The steepest one is Pilgrim Hill—which is the stuff of sledding legend with a big, scary push-off, but smooth finish (72nd Street and 5th Avenue). Cedar Hill is less populated and best for beginners (enter the park between 76th and 79th Streets at 5th Avenue). Dog Hill is another popular spot, though you may have to dodge some trees to ensure a successful ride (East side of Central Park and 80th Street). centralparknyc.org At Riverside Park, you can glide gently down the slopes between 92nd and 103rd Streets, or like a bat out of you-know-where by Hippo Playground (91st Street at Riverside Drive). Nearby 103rd Street is also a go-to hill. riversideparknyc.org Go sledding by the mayor’s house at Carl Schurz Park! The big, kid-friendly slope at the north end near Gracie Mansion is fast, fun, and bumpy. Thrill-seekers welcome. carlschurzparknyc.org Brooklyn natives know to hit Prospect Park’s popular hill right inside the park at 9th Street. Equally popular are the inclines surrounding the Nethermead (enter at 9th Street and Prospect Park West). prospectpark.org

New York Family | January 2014

Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx is an expansive, 1,100-acre space in New York’s hilliest borough. There is fine sledding at the park’s southwestern edge, along Van Cortlandt Park South, near the entrance to the Major Deegan Expressway. (Van Cortlandt Park South between Broadway and Jerome Avenues). vcpark.org Crocheron Park in Queens is a beautiful open space, catering to both cautious kids and daredevils alike with its mix of moderate and steeper hills. It also tends to not be as crowded as many larger parks (35th Avenue between Cross Island Parkway and 215th Street). nycgovparks.org The steep inclines of Staten Island’s Clove Lakes Park are formidable but fun, hence their appeal to a diverse mix of serious sledders. Park rangers regularly organize and oversee sledding races on the hill whenever there are school snow days. nyc.gov/parks -Lorraine Duffy Merkl

Cheers for Tea And Cocoa Bring your little Eloise to the Palm Court at the Plaza for the classic afternoon tea experience. Options include Eloise Tea, of course, complete with a themed menu. 768 5th Avenue, theplazany.com Another whimsical, childfriendly tea room (with multiple locations) is Alice’s Tea Cup. Check out Wee Tea for children ages 10 and under, which serves scones, Van Leeuwen Ice kid-friendly tea sandwiches, Cream’s cocoa. chocolate mousse, herbal tea, and juice. Various locations in Manhattan, alicesteacup.com Think of Teavana as part tea bar, part relaxation emporium. The distinctive name is meant to reflect the unique experience each customer—regardless of age or drink preference—has with their tea choice. Various locations in Manhattan and Queens, teavana.com The Pembroke Tea Room, located in the Lowell Hotel, has become a New York social staple where children have their own special tea menu. 28 East 63rd Street, lowellhotel.com For hot chocolate served in a specially designed “hug mug,” Max Brenner Chocolate by the Bald Man is the place. The kids’ “secret” chocolate menu features Noisy Hot Chocolate complete with crunchy waffle marbles. Though, the “secret” isn’t safe for long, since just about everyone leaves with a chocolate mustache. 841 Broadway, maxbrenner.com If you want to know how to say “great hot chocolate” in Italian: it’s Eataly. Their cioccolata con panna—served at the Lavazza café—is rich, dark, and sweet. Add a swirl of fresh whipped cream and just call it what it really is: dessert. 200 5th Avenue, eatalyny.com Van Leeuwen Ice Cream may be renowned for their ice cream, but their hot chocolate is the true continued on page 18

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Once Upon A Ballet tHE alicE-in-wOndErland fOlliEs

Photo: David Plakke Media

JanuaRy 25 & 26

ExquisitE OnE-HOur BallEts fOr tHE wHOlE family

Art classes for kids Register now! Photo: Richard Termine

National Academy School Young Artist Programs 5 E. 89th Street at Fifth Avenue www.nationalacademy.org 212.996.1908

“Imagine a totally unwired world, and the impact of so much visual richness on the children in it. Then unplug a 21st century kid, and head for the Gould.” Village Voice

Ticket Information: www.nytb.org | Ticketmaster.com 800-982-2787 In Person at the Box Office | all performances held at the newly renovated, intimate Florence Gould Hall, 55 East 59th Street

â Win $100 in free art supplies! To enter the raffle,

use the code FREEART when you register.

January 18 – 20

Bob Marley’s February 7 – 23

“A color-filled, delightful musical for kids with Bob Marley tunes for everyone” The Washington Post

“A fabulously entertaining cabaret” and funny kids’ artsHub (Melbourne)

story by Cedella

Age Recommendation:

EVERYONE 5+

EVERYONE 4+

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Jump Leads & Jessica Wilson

continued from page 16

talk of the town when temperatures start to drop. It’s one of the few places that boasts hot chocolate made with Michel Cluizel 99 percent Infini Noir chocolate. Various locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, vanleeuwenicecream.com Petite Abeille, named after “little bee” in French, offers hot chocolate made from 70 percent Callebaut chocolate, which is shaved, melted down, and mixed with whole milk and half-and-half. No wonder everyone is always buzzing about it. Various locations in Manhattan, petiteabeille.com -Lorraine Duffy Merkl

Cultural Oases Science lovers will enjoy learning about technology, chemistry, and engineering at the New York Hall of Science. The many exhibits include a preschool place, where your little ones can participate in weekend activities like story time and sing-a-longs. 47-01 111th Street, Corona, NY, nysci.org With its collection of art from the Himalayas and Tibet, the Rubin Museum is the perfect place to engage your children with global culture. The Rubin Museum The museum’s family programs include monthly teen yoga jams and Yak Packers—a toddler-oriented arts class. 150 West 17th Street, rmanyc.org Globetrotters should also head over to the Scandinavia House to enjoy Nordic folk songs and Saturday story time. Their kid-friendly workshop series includes fun lessons inspired by Scandinavian culture, like how to make your own Viking costume. 58 Park Avenue, scandinaviahouse.org One of the best ways to enjoy a winter day is in the company of a good book. The Bank Street Bookstore has curated an assortment of over 30,000 kid-friendly titles. The shop also offers events, like puppet shows and regular story hours that give children the chance to meet their favorite authors. 2879 Broadway, bankstreetbooks.com The New York Historical Society’s Dimenna Children’s History Museum functions like a time machine with seven pavilions focused on what life was like for famous New Yorkers throughout the ages. Visit Alexander Hamilton’s study, learn about the famous newsies of the 1920s, and practice arts & crafts skills— like cross-stitching—at one of the museum’s classes. 170 Central Park West, nyhistory.org The New York City Police Museum has an unrivaled collection of NYPD regalia and features a Junior Officers’ Discovery Zone. The play center gives children ages 3-10 the opportunity to drive a cop car, take fingerprints, and solve crimes. 45 Wall Street, nycpolicemuseum.org

New York Family | January 2014

Ski Local: The Slickest

Slopes Jiminy Peak (Hancock, MA) jiminypeak.com Thunder Ridge Ski Resort (Patterson, NY) thunderridgeski.com Hunter Mountain (Hunter, NY) huntermtn.com Whiteface Mountain (Lake Placid, NY) whiteface.com Mountain Creek Mountain House (Vernon, NJ) mountaincreek.com

Stratton (Stratton Mountain, VT) stratton.com Killington Resort (Killington, VT) killington.com Okemo Mountain Resort (Ludlow, VT) okemo.com Waterville Valley Resort (Waterville Valley, NH) waterville.com

The New York City Fire Museum is another great resource to learn about local heroes. Kids are taught about fire safety in an interactive environment which includes visits from retired members of the FDNY, who routinely stop by to tell stories from their days on the job. 278 Spring Sreet, nycfiremuseum.org -Anna Boisseau

Discover DIY Among the numerous places to get crafty in Manhattan, the Craft Studio, is certainly one of the best. In addition to its awesome drop-in crafting tables, the studio also offers two-hour MiniCamps to entertain your kids during mid-winter break. 1657 3rd Avenue, craftstudionyc.com Make Meaning is another a great option for family art projects. Visitors to the Upper East Side and Upper West Side locations can choose between options like jewelry-making and cake-decorating. Though it’s possible to drop in, reservations are recommended. 329 Columbus Avenue; 1501 3rd Avenue, makemeaning.com Parents looking to enroll their children in creative classes should look to HiArt!, which offers “smart art for smarter kids.” Courses like Opera ‘N Art engage kids from toddlers to tweens with high culture through a curriculum of mixed-media studio time, as well as gallery hops and live performances. 227 West 29th Street, hiartkids.com The Brooklyn Design Lab in Park Slope has an eclectic selection of classes for children as young as continued on page 20

www.newyorkfamily.com

continued from page 18

18 months. Your little ones will feel extra special when their creations—think miniature terrariums and t-shirt designs—are displayed in the exhibition center. 413 7th Avenue, Brooklyn, brooklyndesignlab.com Future architects will enjoy Brooklyn’s Construction Kids. Trained professionals create a safe environment for children to create anything they can imagine, using tools designed specifically for little hands. 63 Flushing Avenue, Brooklyn, constructionkids.com Though budding fashionistas have many NYC options for style inspiration, project-oriented Pins & Needles aims to have every participant leave their classes with a finished product. Adults and children alike can take courses in sewing, quilting, and embroidery, and can also rent sewing machines to “Sew by the Hour.” 1045 Lexington Avenue, pinsandneedlesnyc.com The Textile Art Center has Manhattan and Brooklyn locations with afterschool programs in weaving, dying, and sewing, as well as a gallery-based program for fashion-loving teens to learn from artistsin-residence. Classes for adults are also available. 26 West 8th Street; 505 Carroll Street, Brooklyn, textileartscenter.com Families looking to learn about Indonesian textiles should drop into Hiho Batik. The store offers classes on the Batik dying technique, which is a very forgiving process that makes it appropriate for all ages. In addition, the store has a selection of beautiful clothes for purchase. 184 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, hihobatik.com Loop of the Loom offers the city’s only handweaving studio. Children and adults can find classes in SAORI, a Japanese hand-weaving process that focuses on free expression and discovery. 227 E 87th Street, loopoftheloom.com -Anna Boisseau

Best Of The Fests Enjoy the rustic beauty of Maine with the Auburn Winter Festival (January 24-26). Catch a ride by sled or snowmobile, explore the terrain on a pair of skis, snowshoes, or a snowboard, and test your skills with the three-on-three pond hockey tournament. For a more laidback experience, take the family to see the stunning ice sculptures and the torchlight parade. auburnmaine.gov Central Park’s Winter Jam celebration (January

New York Family | January 2014

Saranac Lake Winter Carnival’s opening fireworks over the ice palace.

the season: the Quebec Winter Carnival (January 31-February 16). Traditional events include the international snow sculpture competition, nighttime parades, a light-up ice castle, ice canoe racing, and a snow bath, where brave attendees join “Bonhomme,” the carnival’s friendly mascot, for a romp in the snow while wearing bathing suits! This year’s carnival will introduce a magical world inspired by Peter Pan that’s certain to enchant children and adults alike. quebecregion.com During the winter months, Vermont seduces travelers with its ample supply of snowy slopes. But the Burlington Winter Festival (February 1) has something to offer revelers of all interests. A yearly tradition for over two decades, this day-long festival provides ways to have fun both indoors and outdoors. Take part in an array of family activities, enjoy some live entertainment, and watch as masterful carvers turn mounds of snow into magnificent sculptures inspired by local shops and landmarks! enjoyburlington.com Recognized as New England’s biggest winter celebration, the Newport Winter Festival (February 14-23) features more than 150 different events for cold weather fanatics of all ages. Bundle up and head to this quaint seaside city for mouthwatering chili and chicken wing cook-offs, a playful children’s fair, and a special concert by the cast of “Beatlemania.” To add to the feel-good vibes, a portion of the event’s proceeds will go right back into the community, benefitting local nonprofits and small businesses. newportevents.com -Danielle Kraese www.newyorkfamily.com

Mark Kurtz/Saranac Lake Winter Carnival

A craft project at the Brooklyn Design Lab.

25) is all about snow! Overnight, Central Park transforms into an oasis for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Adventure-seekers of all ages can bring their own equipment or borrow it free of cost for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Plus there are ski and snowboard lessons available. nycgovparks.org The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival (January 31-February 9) originated as a single-day festival intended to bring playfulness to the grueling Adirondack winter. Now, over a century later, the celebration spans 10 days and offers everything from sports and dances to parades and fireworks (which are displayed above the legendary Ice Palace). saranaclakewintercarnival.com Every year, thousands of winter lovers travel to Quebec City for the world’s biggest carnival of

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Lulu Valentina celebrates her 3rd birthday at New York Kids Club. 1. Lulu blows out her candles with a little help from her doting mom. 2. It’s bubbles, bubbles, everywhere for Lulu and her friends. 3. The birthday princess has her cake and eats it too! Photos by Heidi Green Photography (heidigreen.com)

Sasha Diament-Yaouanc celebrates her 6th birthday in Central Park. 1. Sasha strikes a pose with mom and dad. 2. A pretty-in-pink cake makes for the perfect birthday treat. 3. The girl of the hour cracks a smile—and how could she not, with a party outfit as lovely as hers? Photos by Marcus Photography (marcusphotographynyc.com)

Georgia Kirshenbaum celebrates her 9th birthday at Pop Star Parties. 1. Pop star Georgia is ready for her close-up—with her besties by her side, of course. 2. A celeb-worthy dessert is the icing on the cake for this rockin’ party. 3. Georgia and her entourage hit some high notes. Photos courtesy of the Kirshenbaum family

Looking for picture-perfect birthday venues? Visit newyorkfamily.com/birthday-parties 22

New York Family | January 2014

www.newyorkfamily.com

scoop

KEEPING PARENTS IN THE KNOW BABY GEAR Skip Hop Funspot Activity Circle Beloved NYC-based toy retailer Skip Hop is bulking up its arsenal of adorable offerings for the New Year with the recent launch of their brand new Funspot Activity Circles. Designed to inspire auditory, visual, and tactile milestones in infants, the Funspot is meant to be an “upgrade” to the wildly popular Playspot foam mats (safe for babies from age 0)—simply add the enticing Funspots to the existing circles to give your baby’s play time a whole new dimension with a mirror, teether, crinkle leaf, and more. skiphop.com

TECH TOY Toymail Co. Ah, to find a toy to satisfy youngsters’ cravings for technology that’s not just another screen—it’s one of the riddles of modern parenting! Enter Toymail Co. Founded by Gauri Nanda—a designer, entrepreneur, and MIT Media Lab alum—and her best friend Audry Hill, this Brooklyn-based enterprise (look for their storefront later this year) connects kids and parents in a whimsically high-tech way. Your little one gets one of six feisty critter toys (shaped to resemble classic mailboxes) while you download a free app to your smartphone—the app lets you record voice messages that get transmitted to your child’s physical toy. Who says no one likes voicemails anymore? toymailco.com

COMIC

BOOK Personalized goodnight book from Harry Potter illustrator Goodnight Little Me is a high-quality, personalized bedtime book that seamlessly weaves your child’s name into the story’s text, as well as into the illustrations created by renowned Harry Potter illustrator, Mary GrandPré. The book’s magical color palette produces an atmosphere of calm, where flowers and animals eventually become soft, fluffy clouds that lull your child to sleep. The lyrical story is written by awardwinning children’s book author Jennifer Dewing, and published by I See Me, a company with the goal of boosting self-esteem in children by creating books as unique as each child. iseeme.com

New York Family | January 2014

Barclay The Bee The InterContinental New York Barclay Hotel has been buzzing since the launch of its comic series, Barclay The Bee. A collaboration with the Center for Sustainable Design Strategies at the Pratt Institute, the comic raises awareness about the significance of honeybees— which keep the city’s ecosystem in check, but have been dying at a troubling rate. Beautifully illustrated with a smart storyline, Barclay The Bee is printed locally using recycled paper, non-toxic inks, and renewable wind-powered energy—plus, it’s inspired by the hotel’s own rooftop honeybees. Free downloads are available online and the print edition can be found at the hotel for a $5 donation to the Honeybee Conservancy. blog.intercontinentalnybarclay.com

EDUCATION BASIS Independent Brooklyn BASIS, the manager behind some of the most successful schools in the country, including two of the top five high schools in U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings, is coming to the city in a big way. BASIS is opening an independent school—with tuition nearly half that of some of the city’s most established private schools! Slated to open in September 2014 in Red Hook, BASIS Independent Brooklyn is now accepting applications for grades K-10 (as they grow into K-12). BASIS is noted for their STEMfocused liberal arts and science curriculum, though the younger grades bring in elements of a Montessori approach. BASIS will provide bus and water taxi service to their new Brooklyn outpost. basisindependentbrooklyn.com For more tips on local resources for families, check out newyorkfamily.com www.newyorkfamily.com

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Baby

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After Educating Parents Around The World About Understanding And Bonding With Their Babies (And Older Children), Priscilla Dustan Is Bringing Her “Sound” Wisdom to New York City By Lorraine Duffy Merkl Priscilla Dunstan is a behavioral scientist specializing in parent-child bonding and a recent transplant from London to New York City with her 15-year-old son, Tom. She became an international sensation in 2006, when Oprah Winfrey endorsed and showcased her discovery: the “Dustan Baby Language.” This system classifies infant’s cries and translates them so that parents know exactly what their babies need and can address those needs without trial and error. Since then, Dunstan’s books, DVDs, articles, and parenting programs have helped moms and dads around the world more easily and more effectively bond with their children. But if you’re not familiar with her work, a great place to start is with her famous segment seven years ago on “Oprah” (which is still regularly viewed on YouTube). Now, as then, for many parents—and especially new parents—her work is like a revelation, one that’s very welcome, perfectly understandable, and yet amazing to behold. Explaining the appeal of her work, Dunstan says: “So often with new parents, you spend all your time trying to figure out what the problem is with the baby; plus moms and dads are already stressed. It can be a very difficult and overwhelming period.” But, as Dunstan sees it, learning to speak your baby’s language is actually giving them the best possible gift: the security of being heard and understood. “It’s much easier to bond with someone who’s smiling at you,” she adds. Dunstan’s road to global popularity began when Brown University examined Dunstan’s findings and expressed interest in doing research with her. www.newyorkfamily.com

Together with Brown, Dunstan formed a clinical worldwide study, one of which was run in Chicago, where Winfrey first heard about it. After her TV appearance, Dunstan’s DVD version of her program sold over a million copies within three months. The award-winning author has written seven books on the subjects of understanding and bonding with babies and children. Dunstan’s latest is Calm The Crying: The Secret Baby Language That Reveals The Hidden Meaning Behind An Infant’s Cry. The book, like all her work with babies, is underpinned by her discovery that healthy human babies have a universal “secret baby language” based on physical reflexes that all infants share, regardless of nationality or ethnicity. According to Dunstan, there are over 200 translatable reflex words. Parents can begin easily with the five universal words repeated by infants. They are: “Neh” (I’m hungry); “Owh” (I’m sleepy); “Heh” (I’m experiencing discomfort); “Eairh” (I have lower gas); “Eh” (I need to be burped). Parents can then move on to more words, such as those for teething. Her support for parents continues beyond the first year of their child’s life with another approach she calls “Child Sense,” which, globally, is just as popular as her ideas about baby language and bonding. As explained in books and DVDs of the same name, “Child Sense” helps parents of young children understand the role that the five senses can play in child development and behavior. According to continued on page 28

January 2014 | New York Family

continued from page 27

Dunstan, everyone has a dominant sense, and being able to identify your child’s dominant sense allows a parent to better understand their needs and more effectively address them. Though her own child is now in high school, Dunstan says she still feels deeply connected to moms and dads with younger children and the challenges they face as they try to get to know their babies and toddlers and settle in as parents. In her experience, parents connect to her methods because they’re non-judgmental and, instead of contradicting other parenting theories, they’re helpful complements or tools to improve bonding. In the case of her book Calm The Crying, for example, she isn’t telling you what method to use to put your child to bed, but she is helping you know when your baby is sleepy. Dunstan professes that all you really need to better bond with babies is to be a careful listener. She was born with the ability to hear more acutely than most people, with an exceptional skill for pattern recognition—a kind of photographic memory for sound, if you will. This led to a career as a gifted violinist and a study in opera singing. After hearing a concerto only once, she could play it back exactly. Her auditory aptitude primed her to be highly sensitive to the cries of her own son. She started keeping a “cry diary”—writing down the sounds phonetically that Tom made and the action (like diaper changing) that calmed the cry in question. And the “Dunstan Baby Language” was born. Because the idea of babies expressing themselves with such specific messaging can seem like an overreach to some people, Dunstan is still on occasion questioned by naysayers. But after 15 years of research and countless tales of parents being able to use her program to improve their bond with their child, her work is widely regarded and often used by doctors and hospitals, and other health practitioners to help new parents cope. It also helps her cause that she understands the skeptics. “As a researcher, you spend a lot of time trying to disprove yourself,” Dunstan says. “So if I find someone who has a question that I can’t answer, it’s exciting for me.” Dunstan’s research continues, and she is presently working on a book for parents about children with verbal communication issues, including autistic children. She also lends her services to many nonprofits, helping teenage moms and third-world mothers (who are often rape victims) learn to bond with their children. For all the parents and children she has helped, naturally she cites her relationship with her own son as her most important success story. “I talk to [my son] a lot. We have a great relationship, the best I’ve ever had in my life,” Dunstan says. And, yes, to this day, she tries to be a good listener with him. “You don’t cut the other person out of the discussion or decision-making because they’re younger.” To a point. “I’m not his friend,” Dunstan stresses. “I’m his mother. There’s always that clear distinction.” Together, Dunstan—who has been divorced from Tom’s father for the past 14 years—and her son have

New York Family | January 2014

lived in a number of places around the world. But it was important to her (and Tom) that he have a stable high school experience, and they agreed that New York City would be the perfect place for both of them. “Tom has seen a lot of different ways of living, but he is at an age where he wants to settle down,” she says. “And I love New Yorkers; they’re very open to new ideas. They have their pulse on the world.” In addition to tending to her books and articles, Dunstan is planning to set up a bonding and research center in the city to help local parents better connect with their children, whether they’re infants whose cries need to be understood or older kids with needs of their own. She’s also available for private consultations. “I’ve done research on parenting techniques all over the world and found we all have the same ideal,” Dunstan says. “We want to raise healthy, welladjusted children, who can have a lovely life and have children of their own.” With that goal in mind, she says that improved communication skills today will pay off now and later. “You can lay the foundation of a great relationship with your kids, if you listen,” she says. “Often what they’re really fighting for on any issue is to have their voice heard.”

FOR MORE ABOUT PRISCILLA DUNSTAN VISIT DUNSTANBABYNEWYORK.COM.

www.newyorkfamily.com

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Grand Advice Who Better Than A Loving Grandmother With A Ph.D In Child Development To Write A Popular Column About The Thorny Issues Between Parents And Grandparents? By Heather Ouida

Editor’s Note: As a rule, parenting magazines (ours included) don’t write nearly enough about family issues that involve grandparents. But we didn’t fully appreciate how much we were missing out until we discovered the work of Karen Rancourt, an advice columnist and grandmother who focuses on intergenerational issues for Mommybites, which offers education, resources, and community to moms across the country. Her columns—recently collected in her new book, Ask Dr. Gramma Karen: Helping Young Parents And Grandparents Deal With Thorny Issues—amount to a roadmap to the soul of family life, a map created by a very wise and experienced guide. Rancourt has a Ph.D. in child development, and in various stages of her

New York Family | January 2014

Dr. Karen Rancourt (left) and her daughter, Heather Ouida

life has worked as a teacher and as a consultant specializing in organizational behavior issues for Fortune 500 companies. But to get a feel for what she’s like—and what she’s up to with her column—we knew exactly who should interview her: Rancourt’s daughter, Heather Ouida, who not only writes a lot about parenting herself but, as the co-founder of Mommybites, also happens to be Rancourt’s boss. Sort of. --Eric Messinger So Mom, (can I call you Mom?), why did writing an advice column appeal to you? Even as a kid I remember how much I enjoyed reading “Dear Abby.” I liked that I could think about what I would advise before reading Abby’s response. Through the years I realized I retained a lot of her advice and have used it in a variety of situations. Her columns were fun and helpful, and I wanted to model my columns similarly. I was further encouraged when I searched around and didn’t find any advice columns focused on the unique relationships between young parents and grandparents. I know that my friends have always gone to you for advice, but what made you think you’d be any good at advice writing? From my many years of experience as an educator and corporate consultant I learned that people are continued on page 32

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more apt to make positive changes and stay with them if they are clear on what the real problems are and if they feel they have some say in the solution. I use these same principles in writing each column. That is, I work with the person to nail down the real problem. For example, a young mom blows up at a grandparent for giving the grandchild an extra dessert, but the conflict is not really about a chocolate chip cookie. It’s about the young mom feeling her dad is disrespectful of her and her parenting rules. I always try to offer some alternatives while pointing out the potential upsides and downsides of each. But I leave it up to the person with the problem to consider the options and make what is the best decision for him or her. As we all know, it’s easy to damage familial relationships. Maintaining or enhancing them is where the challenges are, especially when we remember that the children and grandchildren are always observing.

I remember that column! People went bananas. Yup, many of the follow-up comments were hostile toward the young mom, and I had to edit out the profanity.

You make it sound so easy. Yup, and it would be easy if it weren’t for the hurts, disappointments, feelings of rejection and disrespect, and of being misunderstood. But all too often what’s best for the grandchildren gets short shrift. My readers tell me that my advice helps them get unstuck from their negative emotional history that often has them focusing on the affront they feel and how to avenge themselves.

What are the common issues young parents and grandparents want your advice on? I thought long and hard about this when I decided to organize my columns into a book. The conflicts between young parents and grandparents typically fall into five key areas. First: setting appropriate boundaries; second: not communicating or miscommunicating; third: having unrealistic or unrealized expectations; fourth: vying for power and control; and fifth: having different values, beliefs, and principles.

I get it that you don’t want to tell anyone what they should do, but have there ever been times when you did tell them what you think they should do? Yes, but only once. I told a reader unconditionally what she should do: “You must never, never, ever leave your children alone with your parents when you know firsthand they are child abusers.” Fortunately, the young mom took this advice. I had readers email me that I should have told the young mom she should sever all ties with her abusive parents, but the young mom had already stated she wasn’t willing to do that. This is a good example of how I believe I must make suggestions within the parameters of the situation as it is presented to me. Have you ever been criticized for your advice? Once in a while a reader will say they don’t agree with something I’ve said, but because I typically offer a range of possible solutions, I don’t encounter a lot of people disagreeing with everything I suggest in a column. However, there was a young mom, who wrote in seeking advice, who generated a lot of angry responses. She wanted to ask her in-laws for money so her two kids could attend an expensive summer camp. Her husband was uneasy asking for this money. But she explained that she and her husband admittedly lived beyond their means, and since they would be inheriting her in-laws’ money eventually anyway, what was wrong with asking for it now?

New York Family | January 2014

Can you predict if and how your readers are going to react to your columns? No, in fact I am constantly surprised. Recently, a reader wanted advice on how to deal with grandmothers who competed over their granddaughter by trying to outdo each other. For example, one grandmother gets the granddaughter a new book; the other grandmother orders a basket of books. One grandmother takes the granddaughter on a day-trip, and the other grandmother arranges a weekend trip. I received a few responses—readers mostly saying how they were going to be more mindful of the potential for this kind of competition— but certainly a lot fewer (and tamer!) comments than I had expected.

Our own mother-daughter relationship is often brought up. People want to know if we make each other crazy. Of course I make you crazy. I make myself crazy, but I think our relationship works for the simple reason that you are naturally good-natured and you are so easy to be around. I can get all worked up about something, and you always calmly say: “Sure, Mom, if you say so.” You never let my flapping get you riled up. When it comes to the grandchildren, I think we all get along so well because your dad and I try to follow your parenting rules and regulations. Why do you think we get along so well? Assuming you think we do get along well! I want to know if we make each other crazy. Well, I’m not so good-natured before my morning coffee! Yeah, we argue, but mostly about silly stuff. But when it comes to what’s important, I agree that the key to our relationship is that you support my parenting style and decisions, so I never feel judged, only supported. I am happy to hear you say you feel supported and not judged because I really do try to follow the advice I give other parents and grandparents. For more of Dr. Gramma Karen and her new book, check out askdrgrammakaren.com. For her regular column, visit mommybites.com.

www.newyorkfamily.com

We Can Help Our Kids Avert the Heartbreak Of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse. But - Only If We Know How. To learn more, spend an hour with a leading expert, Ken Winters, Ph.D. Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota Medical School Director, Center for Adolescent Substance Abuse Research. Dr. Winters will answer your questions after the presentation. This program is sponsored by The Birch Wathen Lenox School and The Zoeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story Fund. February 26th, 2014 at 6:00 pm. The Birch Wathen Lenox School 210 East 77th Street, NY, NY Admission is free and space is very limited. Please e-mail guestspeaker@gbwl.org to reserve a space.

The life you save may be your child's.

a special place

Photo by Karen Haberberg Photography

I know they are in the business of selling, but whenever I walk into one of giggle’s Manhattan stores I sometimes think of them as more of a curator, because of how good they are at identifying (and, in many cases, producing) baby products that are high quality and wonderfully designed. Their 10th anniversary year coincided with a big step toward taking giggle’s standard and sensibility to a wider audience: a partnership with J.C. Penney. Such an interesting juncture in the business seemed like the perfect time to catch up with giggle founder and CEO Ali Wing, an NYC mom who happens to have marked another decade-long milestone this year, her son’s 10th birthday.

giggle owner Ali Wing strikes a pose at her SoHo location.

Best In

Baby

Since Its Founding 10 Years Ago, giggle Has Been The Retail Gold Standard For New And Expectant Parents Shopping For Newborns And Beyond By Eric Messinger

Please describe giggle’s mission and how it has evolved over the years Our mission—to offer a complete checklist of healthier, smarter products for new parents—is 100 percent intact 10 years after our birth. But, of course, a lot has changed in the world in the past 10 years, so we have changed too. From our paperless registry to our giggle Better Basics line, to our exciting new partnership with J.C. Penney, we keep evolving in ways that deliver on our reason for being—helping parents keep the giggle in parenthood! Tell me about your core customer. Expectant mom? New mom? 50-50? Do you have a lot of parents of 2- and 3-year-olds? Or does interest trail off once the nursery is settled? Our focus has always been new parents—and particularly first-time parents and the network of family and friends around each new baby. From a product perspective that has been the focus from prenatal to about 4-year-olds. However, starting in fall 2013, we soft-launched giggleKIDS online at giggle. com. With giggleKIDS, we now offer sizes and stages for up to 7-year-olds. So stay tuned for more on that front in 2014. What can the uninitiated expect to find at giggle? What are the core offerings? And what are some of the surprises? We have the best of everything for new parents. From the best choices for your nursery to your gear and your clothes, we sell the healthiest, most developmentally-oriented, innovative, and responsible offerings for new parents. As for the surpises, most consumers assume that because we offer continued on page 36

New York Family | January 2014

www.newyorkfamily.com

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baby—an activity you love and not just one you need to get done. Tools like the registry app, the “always in stock” Bat Phone, and our white glove delivery services are designed to make the in-store experience as seamless as possible and always fun.

Two of Ali Wing’s top giggle picks: 7 A.M. Enfant’s stroller mittens (left) and UppaBaby’s Mesa car seat (right).

the best of everything, we’re also more expensive. However, for products that you might also be able to find elsewhere, we guarantee the same prices as everybody else. And probably my most “surprise and delight” part of the giggle experience is when our customers share how amazed they are at the incredible value we offer on our growing collection of giggle-branded products—which today make up almost 40 percent of our products and truly represent the very best quality for the price. I look forward to seeing the goods you and your team identify as giggle-worthy every season because not only are they high quality, but usually there is a fun and colorful design sensibility. What makes a product giggle-worthy? We adore great design. But we also think great designs are smart designs, so we like to think that what you love when you see our giggle “picks” is the fact that great products can be as smart or good or practical as they can be beautiful. How important is the in-person shopping experience versus shopping online? Because the store is so colorful and welcoming—and because it’s all new for a new parent—I wonder if your shoppers especially value the in-person experience, even in the age of e-shopping. Particularly for first-time parents, the “touch and feel” aspect of an in-store environment, in addition to the personalized service, is a welcome component of the giggle experience. Needless to say, becoming a parent is a life-changing time. It’s not one of the shopping moments where you are just looking for efficiency. It’s a big deal. And we try to make it one—in all the ways that really help new parents get their feet under them. I think that’s the unique role a store plays today in a multichannel world where, for sure, the ease and efficiency of a great, integrated online store also plays a very important role for busy parents and gift-givers. What else should readers know about shopping at giggle? How fundamental to the experience is your registry app? Shopping at giggle is fun and easy! When we do what we do well, shopping in store should be like a breath of fresh air—a playful, happy experience that makes planning for your baby or simply enjoying your

New York Family | January 2014

What’s the new partnership with J.C. Penney all about? What should consumers know? giggleBABY is an exciting expansion for the giggle brand—one that I’m particularly proud of as we make the great giggle product design and sensibility available to more people at more price points throughout the country. giggleBABY is very much a value line from giggle, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with a great American retailer like J.C. Penney. What’s hot right now in baby shopping? I’d love to give readers the scoop on any products that are selling like hotcakes. I’m a personal fan of the puffer trend—now making its way to babes! From smart fabrics that are soft and shiny to warm but lightweight, there’s just so much to love in the new take on outdoor gear for babies. Of course, hot products include the 7 A.M. Enfant stroller mittens. And I don’t think there’s been a hotter product than the UppaBaby collection including the new Mesa car seat! We, of course, are also fans of our new giggleBABY character fleece collection, which was a Black Friday hit at JCP. With nine stores in seven cities and a growing online business, what are the main responsibilities of your job right now? And after 10 years, what do you love most about your job? 2013 was a big year for giggle, with the introduction of giggleBABY for JCP shops in 567 stores nationwide. It was also a new chapter for me as I hired our first COO/President to run the daily operations, while I focus more on leading creative, designing products, and expanding giggle into new channels. For me, the love has always been, and continues to be, discovering new and innovative products and helping make new parents smile. Your son is 10. What are the biggest joys and challenges of being a mom right now? Wow, it all just goes so fast! With a 10-year-old at home, I already struggle with the idea that he’s becoming a little man. One moment he’s my baby boy, and the next he’s working on being an independent middle schooler and not asking for help with homework. I continue to be amazed at how I just couldn’t love someone more—and in that is the joy and the challenge of watching his growing independence. Eric Messinger is the Editor of New York Family. He can be reached at emessinger@manhattanmedia.com.

For more giggle products and picks, visit giggle.com.

www.newyorkfamily.com

o h S t me As She Celebrates Her Clothing Line’s 15th Anniversary, Designer—And New York Mom Of Three— Shoshanna Gruss Opens Up About Fashion, Family, And Why She Never Makes New Year’s Resolutions By Mia Weber Photos by Sarah Merians Photography. Hair by Andre Davis. Makeup by Caitlin Wooters.

ew York City is full of successful women who have perfected the art of wearing many hats. But few do it as gracefully—or make their hats look as chic—as Shoshanna Gruss (née, Lonstein). Gruss made a name for herself in the fashion industry when she launched her eponymous collection in 1998 when she was just 22. A women’s swimwear line followed in 2001, and—after her first child was born in 2005—Shoshanna Baby Girl launched with swimsuits for girls. And recently, Gruss announced some big news indicative of her growing success and stature in the fashion industry: she was named as Elizabeth Arden’s first-ever Style Director, a role which will have her curating content and forecasting trends for the iconic beauty brand. A creative soul with a knack for business, the 38-year-old born-and-raised Upper East Sider is also an effervescent personality, the kind of woman who can walk in from a New York City snowstorm (like the one swirling in the air the morning of our interview) and be genuinely cheery to everyone around her.

New York Family | January 2014

As demanding as it is to oversee a growing fashion company, Gruss also puts in plenty of time and energy towards supporting worthy institutions like the Society of Memorial Sloan-Kettering (of which she is the chair of the Associates Committee) and The Blue Card, which provides financial assistance to needy Holocaust survivors (a cause she’s deeply connected to as the child of two Holocaust survivors). But her favorite hat to wear? “My number one job, first and foremost, is being a mom. I wouldn’t sacrifice one minute of that,” Gruss, whose daughter Sienna is 8 and twins Angelica and Colby are 1, gushes. To hear her speak adoringly of her children and husband, Joshua Gruss—a former investment banker turned music publishing CEO, whom she first met as a teenager, when they both attended single-sex private schools in the city—it’s clear to see where she draws strength and motivation. continued on page 40

www.newyorkfamily.com

On Shoshanna Gruss (pictured with her Resort 2014 mood board): Shoshanna Denim Ombre Tweed Helena dress; Dolce & Gabbana shoes; Shourouk necklace; Graff wedding bands; vintage diamond and yellow sapphire ring. www.newyorkfamily.com

January 2014 | New York Family

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The Shoshanna brand recently celebrated its 15th anniversary. How did you mark the milestone? One of the things we did was bring back our iconic cherry print which people have been asking us to do for a while... It was the first swimsuit I did [when] I launched swim in 2001. It was everywhere; it was on “Sex and the City,” it was on every celebrity… It’s really what put my swim collection on the map. Tell us about some of the different factors that influence your designs. I have no formal design background, but I really feel like I am the customer and not just in designing the fabrics, the prints, and the colors, but also designing the actual shapes. One of the greatest things that I bring to the table is an understanding of the female form. It’s something that is innate to me… I always wanted to be a designer that celebrated women. I’m fascinated with fashion and I love color, and I think the way you dress and present yourself is so important because it’s such an expression of who you are. How has the Shoshanna brand evolved over the past 15 years? The brand has evolved so much. It’s an extension of me. When I first started it had a more youthful feel, but now it’s evolved to include clothes for every walk of life—as a mom, as a businesswoman, as a friend, as a wife. When my daughter Sienna was born we launched Baby Girl swim, and now she is designing for that line. Sienna has always made her own swimsuits—she and I have very different…um…tastes in clothing and style. How would you describe 8-year-old Sienna’s style? She loves clothing and uses it to express herself too. She’s hip and cool and won’t wear pink—she’ll wear hot pink, maybe, with black—so she always designs her own suits because the ones I make are too girly for her. She came in [to the showroom] and designed a suit. For fun we put it online, and—I’m not just saying this—it became our number one seller! Did you always see yourself in the fashion industry? No, not really at all. I always say this, but I always looked at fashion like I was in a museum. It was beautiful and I wanted it but could never have it… When I was younger, my mom used to have bathing suits custom-made for me, and she always took such dear care of not making me feel bad about my body because when I was 13, I looked like, you know, a grownup. The Laura Ashley stuff didn’t fit and the stuff that did fit looked too sexy… [My mother] didn’t make me hide my body, didn’t make me feel bad about it, we just figured out another way. I always felt confident and comfortable—but still frustrated. What sparked you to act on those frustrations and start designing? When I was in college [at UCLA], I worked in this store called Tracey Ross—which was the coolest store

New York Family | January 2014

in L.A. at the time—and I would see these young girls come in and show their lines. They would have crappy samples but cute ideas and I just thought: “What? Young people can just start a clothing line?” That was sort of where the seed was planted. In a nutshell, who is the quintessential Shoshanna customer? It’s a young woman who is growing into her body and wants to feel pretty and sexy, but still elegant… It’s a woman who’s in her 50s and in great shape, but wants to hide this and that while accenting the best parts. It’s someone who’s a lot like me, who wears a lot of “hats” and likes her clothes to be able to go from school to work to the playground to dinner. Tell us more about being named Style Director at Elizabeth Arden. I’m really excited about the project with Elizabeth Arden. I think it’s such a nice marriage. I love the company, and I’m honored to be their Style Director. They’re such an iconic brand—growing up in New York, the Red Door was so glamorous. They’re looking to evolve, and I’m happy to help them do it. Do you have any tips on maintaining personal style while raising kids? I think you organize your life—and your clothes—in a way that makes you stop wasting the silly moments. I can get dressed at night so quickly if [my husband and I] have to go out. You need a couple good pairs of shoes that go with everything, a great evening bag, a great day bag, and then you have to get rid of the clutter. Do you have a philosophy on balancing family time with other responsibilities? All my time is family time—I only do other stuff when they’re not around. I spend every minute with them on the weekends, happily! I’m very grateful that my office allows me to be this kind of mom—I leave every day at 2:30pm to pick up my daughter. I work from home a lot…I would never miss an appointment, I would never not pick my kids up from school…I know these years will go quickly and I’ll never get them back. That’s how my family was and still is. How does your parenting style compare to and complement your husband’s? My husband is super-antsy and he’s very athletic…he sort of half-forced my daughter into hockey, but now she likes it… I’d rather just take Sienna to a museum or take her to Chinatown, and walk and talk. He likes activities. But that’s good—we’re different in that way… Like, we’ll go to a resort and he’ll take Sienna waterskiing, and to play tennis, and to go fishing, and I’ll just take her to the ocean to look for shells. I want to be on vacation when we’re on vacation but he wants to, you know, join the Olympics. Otherwise our parenting styles are similar. We grew up in New York together and have similar ideas about family and raising children. continued on page 42

www.newyorkfamily.com

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L to R: Shoshanna Gruss takes a dip with her 1-year-old twins; Gruss’ kids Angelica (left), Sienna (center), and Colby (right) crack a smile. Photos courtesy of Shoshanna Gruss

Any activities in particular you enjoy on the weekends? We go ice skating every weekend. We go to this ice skating club on Long Island—it’s like 40 minutes from the city... [My husband] plays ice hockey, and my daughter plays ice hockey, and I’m a figure skater. What are your kids like right now? Is Sienna a good big sister? [The twins] are Sienna’s babies and I’m just there to help! She is so in love with them—she is a great big sister. It was not our plan to wait that long [after having our first child], as I’m sure you can imagine, but it ended up being a beautiful distance in between because Sienna’s life didn’t really change except for that she became a big sister… Sienna is a special, special human. The kindest soul I’ve ever encountered... The twins, they are—from the day they were born—who they are. Angelica is a force to be reckoned with. She’s loud and aggressive but always with a smile on her face. She always needs both toys, and both pacifiers. And Colby—he’s a lover, not a fighter. He’s soft and sweet and gentle. Were you ready for twins? It was a long journey to get there and I think you could have thrown anything at me. I was just praying that there was a happy ending… I think when you’re as appreciative as I was, nothing could have thrown me… So far, they’ve just been fun, and I’m sure when we get to applying for kindergarten I’ll think: “This isn’t so fun!” But if you have a couple things happen in life that are tough, they don’t really mean anything in the big picture…both my parents are survivors of the Holocaust and I go back to that every day of my life. Nothing is that bad. Having two new children is just the greatest joy and gift. I feel so lucky because I didn’t think I could have any more children. What would you say to other women expecting twins? I had, and have, really good help. I think that’s the most important thing—there’s no one baby carrier or anything that you need—but you need help. You need someone to relieve you. You need to sleep. You can’t feel guilty about taking care of yourself because you can’t be a good mom if you’re not energized. I think the most important thing that any new mom—whether it’s child one, two, or three—you need to plan how you’re going to handle your life and make an adjustment for

New York Family | January 2014

these new lives that will be with you forever… My friend just had twins and she kept saying to me: “You have to tell me what I need!” And I just said: “Really? Just two cribs, a lot of diapers, and some help!” How does Sienna’s experience growing up in New York compare to your own? She goes to [the same all-girls private school that I went to]. And Sienna goes to dancing school like Josh and I did. Josh and I had incredibly happy childhoods, so we’re trying to recreate a lot of our memories. What makes New York a great place to raise a family? New York is the most magnificent city on the planet. It’s got everything at your fingertips. We utilize the city… If you use New York in the right way, it can be the most amazing place on earth. I took Sienna to the MoMA the other day and she was like: “These are the real paintings?” And I said: “Yeah, you live in a city where they have the real stuff!” Are there any hidden gems you and your family love? We love Chinatown… We go to the Golden Unicorn which is this place where, on Sunday mornings and afternoons, they do the old-school dim-sum where they pass around the carts. They have 30-40 different dishes, and some are amazing and some are like… chicken feet. It’s so interesting to share that with Sienna and show her the different cultures in our city. Have you made any New Year’s resolutions? I never make New Year’s resolutions. That’s because I feel like I make resolutions every day and try to be better every day. Every day I want to eat better, or sleep better, or be more organized, or whatever it is. I never understood [making resolutions]—because why didn’t you just do it already?

to get the scoop on Shoshanna’s picks from her Resort 2014 collection and from Elizabeth Arden, visit newyorkfamily.com/ shoshanna-gruss

www.newyorkfamily.com

A picture is worth a thousand words, a hundred smiles and lots of belly laughs! Art therapy workshops, where work is fun. Art therapy promotes a comfortable, supportive, and creative environment for children with special needs. Functional, sensory, and social experiences may be safely explored.

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CLASS-IFIED INFORMATION Our Guide To Classes—For Kids Of All Ages—Has The Inside Scoop On Fresh, Fabulous, And Just Plain Fun Offerings For The New Year

Photo by Rosalie O’Connor

Edited By Mia Weber

With a brand new year comes a whole new crop of fantastic kids’ class offerings—most with start dates between mid- and late-January. While some of our favorite venues have fresh new classes for 2014, many others are continuing to highlight their popular picks (all the while making them better and better each semester)—check out our guide to both inspire resolutions for trying new things, or to help keep your little one building on their existing passions. And keep in mind that many of the children’s activity and enrichment programs featured here have all sorts of other classes, which you can find out more about on their websites. Happy Hunting! Ballet Academy East www.newyorkfamily.com

January 2014 | New York Family

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Editor’s note: This list is meant to be selective, rather than definitive. Visit newyorkfamily.com for an extended version of this list and to learn about many more enrichment programs throughout the city. 14th Street Y: Kids ages 1-3.5 can rock, roll, shake, and sing with popular singer/songwriter and guitarist Nathan Tysen at the 14th Street Y’s Musical Notes with Nathan class. Nathan performs a mix of children’s songs, rock & roll tunes, and sing-a-longs. In this interactive class there will be movement, dancing, parachute time, and bubbles. There will also be an introduction to musical concepts, books, finger puppets, instrument demos, and more. 14streety.org 74th St. MAGIC: Get ready to tumble and roll! 74th St. MAGIC’s Tiny Tumblers class in their colorful mini-gym is the perfect place for little ones (6-10 months and 11-18 months) to explore movement and develop gross motor skills through a gently guided exploration of specially-designed equipment. Music is played during all the activities and each 45-minute class ends with fun with bubbles and playing with the parachute. Classes start January 6, 2014. 74magic.com 92nd Street Y: Looking for playtime, art, music, circle time, and snack? Join Parkbench, where 92Y’s well-equipped playrooms invite toddlers ages 13-18 months, 18-24 months, and 2-2.5 years and their adult caregivers to play and make friends. Experts from 92Y’s Parenting Center lead the activities and answer questions. Classes start January 27, 2014. 92Y.org ABC Do Re Me: From nursery rhymes to the Beatles, from tom-toms to tambourines, nothing warms up a cold winter day like an exciting Musical Playdate class from ABC Do Re ME! Their innovative drop-in music programs let you choose which class to attend on your schedule! Come every day, once a week, or once a month. abcdoremenyc.com Actor’s Technique New York: ATNY’s On-Camera Acting & Audition Technique Class is taught by private instructors who work closely with TV and film agents, managers, and casting directors. This 9-week class for tweens and teens combines both text analysis and Meisner Technique. Young actors will partner up with each other and train for the final day of acting in front of agents. actorstechniqueny.com Advantage Tennis Club: Advantage’s QuickStart Tennis is real tennis, sized for kids ages 4 and up. Age-appropriate racquets, smaller courts, and slow-bouncing balls make the game more accessible. Kids learn fundamentals through noncompetitive drills and games, so it’s fun for everyone! Classes start January 11, 2014. quickstartny.com Applause NYC: Looking to get your pre-baby body back or just want a great workout while having tons of fun? Trammell Logan, director of dance at Applause, now presents their signature hip-hop class for moms and caregivers! Through today’s hottest music and choreography, this cardio class will get your heart pumping in no time. Class begins January 27, 2014. applauseny.com apple seeds: Rock n’ smock, a combo of popular seeds’

New York Family | January 2014

Clockwise from top: apple seeds, Discovery Programs, Art Farm in the City

classes songs for seeds and my Chelsea art opening, will have kids ages newborn to 5 years singing, dancing, and painting—all in one 90-minute class. Classes start January 6, 2014 and are offered in Chelsea and on the UWS. appleseedsplay.com The Art Farm in the City: Young chefs learn all about fresh ingredients during the Art Farm’s Farm Foodies cooking class. Chef Sylvie takes a hands-on approach with her seasonal organic menu, teaching students, ages 2-8, to smell mint, shape brioche, and peel rhubarb. Every class ends with a visit to the petting zoo. Classes start January 6, 2014. theartfarms.org ArtXplorers: ArtXplorers’ programs are designed not only to entertain, but also to engage children as they learn about art. They offer a unique approach to art education that brings together videos, audio series, museums and gallery tours, and creative projects. artxplorers.com Asphalt Green: Kids learn the basics of gymnastics and the joy of tumbling, rolling, and jumping in Asphalt Green’s Tumble Tots class for ages 2-3. Available at both the Upper East Side and Battery Park City locations. Classes start January 2, 2014. asphaltgreen.org; asphaltgreenbpc.org Atlantic Acting School: The Creators class, for ages 6-8, is a must for any young performer looking for an afterschool outlet for creative expression. In this class students will work with their director to create an original short play featuring a character of their own imagination. Class starts February 3, 2014. atlanticactingschool.org Baby Fingers: Learn American Sign Language through songs and play with other parents and children at Baby Fingers. Go home each week with new vocabulary and new tunes to enhance communication between you and your www.newyorkfamily.com

child! Offered at various NYC locations (for the latest from Baby Fingers see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). mybabyfingers.com Ballet Academy East: The Petit Dancers Division at Ballet Academy East, which used to start at age 2, now includes special classes for 18-month-olds. Children and their parents or caregivers share the joys of dance and music through song and movement. baenyc.com The Ballet Club: The Ballet Club’s Performing Arts PreProfessional Division is a program for students ages 7 and older. The program provides students with an outstanding opportunity to excel and become fluent in ballet, with an emphasis on technique, creativity, choreography, and performance. theballetclub.com Bilingual Birdies: Have a blast learning Spanish, Hebrew, French, Mandarin, or English in Bilingual Birdies’ In-Home Private Classes! They guarantee 45 minutes of fun, effective education, where kids learn words and phrases through music, movement, and puppetry. They even provide instruments and a take-home CD for each kid attending. bilingualbirdies.com Bilingual Buds: Students with no prior experience in Mandarin Chinese or Spanish can join Bilingual Buds’ new Elementary Integration Program (for kids in grades 1-4) as a way to transition into their mainstream dual-language program. Small-groups and individual attention allows participants to acquire Mandarin or Spanish while learning content. bilingualbuds.com BookNook: Within their comfortable and welcoming ambiance, BookNook’s early childhood enrichment program on the Upper West Side offers classes in everything related to literacy, from reading and phonics to handwriting and kindergarten readiness. The 90-minute classes are capped at six students each and divided into five different ageappropriate levels for ages 1.5-7. booknooknyc.com Bounce & Flip: Bounce & Flip’s preschool classes will introduce the basic gymnastics skills to assist in developing self-confidence and technique. The pre-school series will offer classes taught with parent participation for children ages 18-36 months and without for children ages 3-5. bounceandflip.com

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Bright Kids NYC: Prepare your child to meet the NYS Common Core Learning Standards with Bright Kids’ Common Core Enrichment program. Beginning in February, children grades pre-K-2 can attend a weekly ELA or math class (or both!) at Bright Kids’ downtown or UES centers. Each class is 30 minutes long and meets twice a week. brightkidsnyc.com Chelsea Piers: Lace up your skates and get in the Olympic spirit at Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers! The Skating School offers both hockey and figure skating programs for kids ages 3 and up, allowing skaters to progress from beginner Learn to Skate classes all the way to the Junior and Elite Prep continued on page 48

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www.newyorkfamily.com January 2014 | New York Family

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NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK By Mia Weber The phrase “in with the new” is especially true at a handful of our favorite venues, Check out which cool locations have new facilities, new programs, and more! BABY FINGERS: In addition to their locations at Karma Kids Yoga in the West Village and the Prenatal Yoga Center on the Upper West Side, Baby Fingers is now offering classes at Kids at Work in Chelsea, Sangha Yoga in Williamsburg, and at Asphalt Green in Battery Park City. mybabyfingers.com FASTBREAK SPORTS: Their state-of-the-art, multi-million dollar sports facility for kids, has just opened its doors with programming. The threestory, 10,000-square-foot facility is located on the Upper East Side in the space which was once the United Artist Theater and has been fully renovated for Fastbreak—making it the first of its kind in NYC. fastbreakkids.com KIDVILLE: The beloved outpost for kid-friendly fun opened new locations in Murray Hill and Riverdale in 2013 and plans to introduce facilities in the Financial District and Williamsburg later this year. kidville.com LET’S GOGH ART: The latest word on NYC’s kidfriendly art scene is an outpost of the New Englandwide Let’s Gogh Art program. Since coming to the city last year, Let’s Gogh Art offers four locations throughout NYC and a number of programs, from dancing to painting to story-based activities. nyletsgoghart.com MATHNASIUM: Good news for all young mathematicians living downtown: Mathnasium recently opened a brand new location in Union Square. Pay them a visit at 46 East 11th Street between University Place and Broadway. mathnasium.com MUSIBAMBINO MUSIC & DANCE PROGRAM: The program formerly-known-as-the-Early-Ear is revamping its offerings as a new company under new ownership. Check them out for a plethora of musical classes for kids. musibambino.com NY KIDS’ CLUB: The busy folks at NY Kids’ Club opened spaces in Tribeca and Park Slope in 2013 and have plans for new locations in Williamsburg and Long Island City later this year! nykidsclub.com THE PRENATAL YOGA CENTER: Brooklyn mamas can rejoice and get their flow going! As of recently, the Prenatal Yoga Center is now hosting its unique program, a prenatal class by Hess Kim, at the Jennifer Brilliant Yoga Studio in Park Slope. prenatalyogacenter.com

New York Family | January 2014

programs or the competitive hockey leagues and travel team. chelseapiers.com/sr/skating-school Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA): CMA’s afterschool Fashion Design program is a semester-long class for ages 5-15. Young designers will learn the fundamental techniques of sewing and how to read patterns. Children will experiment with fabric printing and marbling techniques using a variety of fabrics and textiles to create a mood board—after which they’ll create a garment. Classes start January 27, 2014. cmany.org/classes/afterschool Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM): CMOM’s new Science Explorers class, for ages 3-4 is a 3-hour long science class, which includes a daily trip to one of CMOM’s own exhibitions! Kids learn about the natural wonders of the world through interactive stories, art projects, science experiments, and more. CMOM educators introduce classroom skills like listening, observing, and developing a love of learning. Classes start January 28, 2014. cmom.org Church Street School for Music and Art: Preschoolers ages 2-4 explore, learn, and grow in Arts Express, an innovative music and art immersion drop-off program. This program incorporates Dalcroze eurhythmics, visual art, free play, story time, and snack. Morning, afternoon, and full-day options are offered 2-3 days per week, as are four-day pre-K options. churchstreetschool.org Citibabes: Budding gourmets experience the pleasures of the kitchen in Citibabes’ Pots And Pans signature class for ages 2-3. Delicious and healthful recipes come to life as children have the opportunity to use all of their senses while developing fine motor, math, and social skills. Each class ends with a tasty morsel to take home, and the semester ends with a completed cookbook to enjoy forever. Classes start January 27, 2014. citibabes.com Columbus Gym: Columbus Gym turned 25 this year and they’re doing flips about it! Join them for tumbling, climbing, swinging, balancing, and bouncing in one of their Tiny Tot Fitness classes. Little gymnasts (10 months and up) will build strength and confidence, socialize with friends, and have a ton of fun exploring the huge gymnastics space and learning the fundamentals of athletics through gymnastics. columbusgymnyc.com Construction Kids: Afterschool at Construction Kids’ Brooklyn Navy Yard workshop is a dynamic and creative afternoon. Children in grades pre-K-4 learn how to use tools to make projects which they take home. Projects vary depending on the age and experience level of the child, but can range from puppets, animals, vehicles, and gocarts, to making toys and mazes and fantastic buildings. constructionkids.com The Craft Studio: Come out of the cold and put together your own semester-long class! Perfect for your preschoolers, and even fun for tweens! From music and art to fashion and Rainbow Loom-ing, the crafting options are endless! All the Craft Studio needs is five kids to run a class lead by a crafty www.newyorkfamily.com

mom, dad, or caregiver. Examples include unique Rainbow Loom classes, canvas workshops, chocolate painting, and more. craftstudionyc.com Creative Play for Kids: Come sing, dance, and play at Creative Play for Kids’ Drop-In Music, Movement, and Play class! These live music classes offer babies and toddlers an upbeat, dynamic, and experience every Monday afternoon on the Upper West Side. Classes start January 13, 2014. creativeplayforkids.com Diller-Quaile School of Music: Love to sing, move, and explore instruments? Enjoy drawing, printing, and making collages and sculptures? Getting ready for preschool? If so, join the Diller-Quaile School of Music for a fun and educational Music and Art class for Nearly Twos and Twos and caregivers. Classes start in January. diller-quaile.org Discovery Programs: Tyke Sports from Discovery Programs is a high-energy class that introduces the world of sports to children ages 25-36 months and 3-4 years. Tykes on this team will run like panthers, slither like snakes, cheer for one another, and explore sports like baseball, tennis, and soccer. Kids will leave tired, happy, and wanting more sports! discoveryprograms.com East Side Tae Kwon Do & East Side Yoga: East Side Yoga offers a unique option in NYC: a yoga class for parents and caregivers in one room, with kid-friendly classes offered in another. Start your weekend in a relaxing way while your children have fun too. eastsidetaekwondo. com; eastsideyoganyc.com

WHO SAID SCIENTISTS DON’T HAVE FUN? OUR KIDS HAVE A BLAST AT

SCITECH KIDS

AFTER SCHOOL & WEEKEND PROGRAM

Winter classes begin January 15th. Winter is a great time for kids to explore the wonders of science. SciTech Kids sparks a child’s innate curiosity and creativity about science through rich, hands-on, captivating experiences. Whether an Explorer (3-5) Adventurer (ages 6-8) or Investigator (ages 9-12) SciTech Kids inspires kids to think like scientists.

BUDDING SCIENTISTS ENJOY THEMES INCLUDING:

• Human body • Earth & Space • Energy & Motion • Living Organisms • How Stuff Works • Light & Sound • Air & Water • Electronics AND MORE

To register call (212) 804-7055 or sci-techkids.com

Eastside Westside Music Together: The Babies Class, for babies from birth to 7 months old, from Eastside Westside Music Together will start your little one on a pathway of music development that will allow them to express inborn musicality. See how responsive to music your baby is and learn how to support these developing behaviors at home. eswsmusictogether.com EBL Coaching: EBL Coaching’s afterschool enrichment programs help students in grades pre-K-12 develop reading, writing, math, and organizational skills. Students work in small groups using research-based, multi-sensory strategies. Specialized programs for students with learning disabilities and ADHD are also offered. eblcoaching.com Fastbreak Sports: Fastbreak’s Multi-sport Program—in their new, state-of-the-art, UES facility—is the ideal program for children ages 2-5 to be exposed to a number of new skills and sports. Every 2-3 weeks children will be introduced to a new sport including basketball, baseball, soccer, football, tennis, and floor hockey (for the latest from Fastbreak see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). fastbreakkids.com French Institute Alliance Francaise (FIAF): Take your child on a sensory adventure with FIAF’s Les petits chefs Cooking Workshops. Beginning January 15, 2014, toddlers ages 2–4 can discover new seasonal flavors by creating sweet and continued on page 50 www.newyorkfamily.com January 2014 | New York Family

continued from page 49

program integrates dynamic movement with singing and dancing, helping to develop toddler’s movement, motor skills, and cognitive skills. Toddlers ages 18 months to 2.11 years work with a USA Gymnastics certified coach, engaging with every piece of gymnastics equipment, including the balance beam, bars, and trampoline. gymtime.net Hands On!: Using a special instrument-based curriculum, this music studio (in four Manhattan locations) introduces infants, toddlers, and preschoolers to popular folk tunes, nursery rhymes, and lullabies. These Hands On! Musical Experience classes feature stories with puppets, music, and instrument exploration. handsonformusic.com HiArt!: Put some sunshine in your winter with HiArt!’s alltime fairy favorite: “A Midsummer Night’s Dream!” Their Opera ‘N Art class is a fabulous and fun romp through the Shakespearean fairy kingdom. Opera through hands-on art with endless paint, collage, and glitter is rounded out by gallery hops for kids from age 2 and up. hiartkids.com

Top: Chelsea Piers, bottom: Let’s Gogh Art

savory treats. As they stimulate their senses by smelling mint, tasting rhubarb, and shaping brioche, they’ll enhance their French, learn to cook, and of course, enjoy their delicious chef d’oeuvres! fiaf.org Fukasa Kai: Introduce your 4- to 6-year-old “Karate Kid” to the fun and excitement of Cary Nemeroff ‘s martial arts program, which includes rolling, kicking, and tumbling in a child-friendly, structured environment. The class builds and reinforces focus, self-esteem, and essential tools for academic and life success. Classes begin February 4, 2014 at the World Yoga Center. fukasakai.com The Gaga Center: Ready, set, go gaga! Kids in grades 2-6 burn tons of energy with one hour of pure fun at the Gaga Center’s After-School Gaga program, including warm-up, instruction, and loads of time to play. Pits are segmented by age groups. Classes start February 3, 2014. gagacenter.com The German American School: The German American School’s Playgroup for ages 4-5 teaches kids a basic German alphabet and alphabet song, and includes drawing, crafts, sound production, singing, and other varying activities. german-american-school.org Gymboree Play & Music: Childhood and creativity go handin-hand, that’s why Gymboree Play & Music Art classes engage your child in a world of hands-on discovery. Their art studio invites your child to unleash their imagination through painting, sculpture, drawing, collage, dramatic play, song, and stories. For children ages 18 months to 5 years. gymboreeclasses.com Gymtime Rhythm & Glues: Gymtime’s Cross Trainers

New York Family | January 2014

¡HOLA! A Playgroup In Spanish: HOLA!’s Two-Three’s program (running at apple seeds) follows a natural approach in order to help develop Spanish speaking skills. The program focuses on a wide repertory of concepts to build vocabulary on topics of interest in the child’s world and helps acquire the correct use of phonetics from a native speaker. The classes are taught through the use of original and traditional music, movement, games, props, and art. Classes start January 7, 2014. holaplaygroup.com I’m Bilingual: I’m Bilingual’s Spanish Combo immersion classes for niños and toddlers include a combination of fun and engaging activities—that include meringue and salsa dancing, Spanish merienda (snack), games, and conversations led by adults. These drop-off classes offer a complete cultural and language immersion preschool alternative for ages 2-4 taught exclusively by native speakers. imbilingual.com Jazz At Lincoln Center: With their winter concert “Who is Dave Brubeck?” on February 8, 2014, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis brings forth two decades of experience in presenting interactive, amusing, family-friendly shows to introduce and illuminate Brubeck’s extraordinary life to young and old alike, kicking off a festival celebrating Brubeck’s incomparable contributions to jazz. Jazz For Young People is for kids ages 6-12. jalc.org The JCC in Manhattan: Kids’ health is more important than ever and the JCC’s PopFit Kids program will teach kids healthy habits they can share with the whole family. Through circuits, drills, games, and yoga, each PopFit Fitness Adventure will touch on the critical aspects of the Fab Five: cardio, strength, flexibility, endurance, and balance. Classes start January 23, 2014. jccmanhattan.org Jodi’s Gym: Do you have a preschooler age 3-5 who’s always on the move? Jodi’s Gym’s Tumbling Tots program will keep them flippin’ head over heels. The fundamentals of gymnastics (and all sports) are developed as children improve their skills on balance beams, bars, rings, tumbling, www.newyorkfamily.com

offers all the sports fun you’ve come to love from one of New York’s top sports program, along with a classroom curriculum designed to aid preschool learners—ages 2.54. Classes run for two hours long. kisnyc.com Kidville: Kidville has expanded its pre-nursery offerings to include KVU Prep (ages 18-24 months). Preparing little scholars for eventual separation in KVU (Kidville’s popular pre-school alternative program) and KVU Grad (coming in fall 2014), KVU Prep promotes independence through exploration and play. Daily activities include art, sensory exploration, story time, music, and gym (for the latest from Kidville see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). kidville.com

L to R: Gymboree, HiArt!

floor work, vault, tumbletrak, a space bouncer, and much more! Class begins January 21, 2014. jodisgym.com Joffrey Ballet School: The Joffrey Ballet School’s Demi Soloist class begins January 27, 2014. Designed for children ages 4.5-5.5, this class helps children continue to practice basic elements of creative movement and ballet through games and exploration of time, weight, and space. Live piano accompaniment proves an enriching and stimulating environment for all classes. joffreyballetschool.com Karma Kids Yoga: Strap on your scuba gear at Karma Kids Yoga for a Shark Yoga adventure into the deep blue sea to find out why sharks are some of the most important creatures in the ocean. This class, for ages 3-7, includes Great White Shark adoption, beach tote, and a special shark surprise; classes start Saturday, February 8, 2014. karmakidsyoga.com Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy: Golf indoors? You Bet! Join Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy this winter for weekly classes at their UES and UWS locations. They play and discover golf with children as young as 3.5 years old with their fun and creative golf drills and games. ktuga. com/weekly-classes Kids At Art: In addition to their other multi-media art classes for children, Kids At Art will be offering a special 3D Art class in which kids ages 5 and up will use materials like wood, clay, cardboard, found objects, and paper to construct three-dimensional projects like sculptures, murals, marionettes, and mobiles using different construction methods and using reproductions from art history books as inspiration. kidsatartnyc.com Kids At Work: Looking for a peaceful, intimate, quiet place for your child to learn? At Toddle Around Drop-in (ages 12 months to 2.5 years) at Kids at Work in Chelsea, your child will paint, squirt, and dump to their heart’s delight at sensory-based and age-appropriate art stations, then they’ll head over for acoustic music that’s off-the-beaten path. kidsatworknyc.com Kids In Sports: Kids in Sports’ Pre-School Athletes program

The Language Workshop For Children: The Language Workshop for Children’s French, Spanish, or Chinese educational play classes immerse children ages 6-9 in a new language through stimulating activities, awardwinning LWFC materials, original vocabulary-rich songs, native-speaking teachers, LWFC stories, and more. languageworkshopforchildren.com Launch Math & Science Centers: Budding scientists will have a blast at Launch Math & Science Centers’ popular workshop, Actions & Reactions: Fun with Science! From high-flying catapults to dramatic chemical reactions, kids ages 6-8 find out what makes the world tick through handson physics and chemistry experiments. Classes start January 6, 2014. launchmath.com Let’s Gogh Art NYC: Looking to get your groove on and learn super fun dance moves while creating rock star worthy projects? Don’t miss Let’s Gogh Art NYC’s dance and art combo class, Let’s Gogh Dance, for kids ages 3-5. Offered at TLB Music and Preschool of the Arts (for the latest from Let’s Gogh Art see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). nyletsgoghart.com Lil Yogis NYC: Join Lil Yogis NYC for their Yoga Hip Hop class this winter! Classes are for children ages 2-5 and will teach children basic dance moves and routines along with a yoga warm-up. Expect a high-energy class filled with music, dancing, and stretching! lilyogisnyc.com The Little Gym: The Little Gym’s gymnastics program for preschoolers and kindergarteners has been designed to help children reach developmental milestones. Independent from parents, kids learn gymnastics fundamentals and have plenty of fun. Try the Funny Bugs class for ages 3-4. thelittlegym.com Little Maestros: Little Maestros is an award-winning infant and toddler music program in its twelfth year of business. The 45-minute weekly classes filled with critically-acclaimed original music and enriching activities are taught by Broadway-quality entertainers who love kids and give 110 percent! littlemaestros.com Lucy Moses School at Kaufman Music Center: Young maestros ages 2-9 will have a blast in Dalcroze classes, continued on page 52

www.newyorkfamily.com January 2014 | New York Family

continued from page 51

30 Years of Experience

Amazing Classes

Awesome Birthday Parties

Free Trial Class! Enjoy New York’s best fitness programs and birthday parties designed specifically for kids ages 6 weeks to 13 years.

Hurry! Offer valid only until 1/31/14

where they explore fundamental musical concepts like meter, tempo, and phrase through rhythm games, creative movement, songs, stories, ear training, sight-singing, and improvisation. Come lay the foundations for a lifetime of music! kaufmanmusiccenter.org/lms Manhattan Tennis Academy: MTA’s Quick Start Program for ages 4-7 is all about keeping it fun and exciting, while establishing a foundation for motor skill development. Basic movement and coordination skills will be introduced as kids learn to send the ball with their hands, scaled down racquets and other equipment that fosters enjoyable learning experiences. manhattantennisacademy.com Mathnasium of Manhattan: The Mathnasium Enrichment Program is offered year-round for qualifying students in 2nd grade through Algebra 1. This program allows for eight scheduled instruction hours per month. Each instructor works with 1-3 students every hour in a semi-private setting, combining individualized instruction with independent work in a fun environment (for the latest from Mathnasium see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). mathnasium.com

For new members. Contact us for details.

(212) 724-3400 Harlem 258 St. Nicholas Ave. harlem@mygym.com Lincoln Center 22 W. 66th St. lc@mygym.com www.mygymisfun.com

Now Registering for Winter-Spring 2014 and Summerdance BALLET ACADEMY EAST

Pre-Professional Ballet Division Ages 7-18 Check audition schedule online

Pre-Ballet, Tap and Modern

Adult Open Classes All Levels - Start Anytime Ballet, Tap, Zumba, Jazz, Modern, Pilates and Yoga 1651 Third Avenue New York, NY 10128 212-410-9140 • info@baenyc.com www.balletacademyeast.com

New York Family | January 2014

Rosalie O’Connor

Ages 3-6

Ages 18 months - 2 years

MusiBambino Music & Dance Program: Welcome to MusiBambino, where highly-skilled teachers and pianists introduce the magical world of music to kids ages 4 months to 5 years! Children have fun with sing-alongs, games, musical instruments, creating group ensembles with friends and teachers. Specially-designed kid-sized instruments await the touch of curious little hands (for the latest from MusiBambino see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). musibambino.com Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals: Get ready to rock at the all-new Music for Aardvarks in Chelsea. Babies and toddlers with their cregivers come together to celebrate growing up in New York City. With Music for Aardvarks’ original songs and coloring books this winter is going to be the best one so far. Classes start January 10, 2014. musicformanhattan.com

New Boys’ Scholarship Program

Petit Dancers

Moey’s Music Party: Educate and entertain your infant, toddler, or preschooler with the most fun music class in NYC! Every week during Moey’s eight week semester is a different type of music party that introduces children to songs, dances, instruments, movement, puppets, finger-play, and musical story time. Winter 2014 class themes include seasonal parties like Valentine’s Day and Winter Wonderland in addition to kid favorites like pirate, train, and jungle themes. moeysmusicparty.com

My Gym Harlem: Rhythm and Youths is a dynamic music program for the youngest of musicians (ages 6 months to 3 years) that blends music education with all of the fun of My Gym! Children sing, dance, play instruments, laugh, pretend, and learn. While doing so kids develop rhythm, motor coordination, cultural awareness, and preschool readiness. mygymisfun.com My Gym UES: Cardio Kids combines a cardio workout with strength and flexibility exercises for children ages 6-9 who may be surrounded by the sedentary distractions of TV, www.newyorkfamily.com

the Internet, and video games. Endurance and motor skills are increased through a series of exciting and dynamic activities. mygym.com

Come Play Yoga at Karma Kids Yoga!

New York Theatre Ballet: New York Theatre Ballet, the company that brings you the “Once Upon A Ballet “series at Florence Gould Hall, will be offering Pre-Ballet classes for your budding dancers ages 3-7. Classes start January 6, 2014. All students work towards dancing in a fully costumed performance scheduled for June 14, 2014. nytb.org NY Kids’ Club: Pre-Ballet (for ages 18-24 months and 2-2.11 years) at NY Kids’ Club is a creative and enriching introduction to ballet for young dancers. Children learn body awareness, spatial awareness, rhythm, and music appreciation. Basic concepts of movement are reinforced each class as props and costumes complete the magic of each 45-minute session (for the latest from NY Kids’ Club see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). nykidsclub.com Peridance Capezio Center: The School at the Peridance Capezio Center’s PeriChild program offers dance classes for children ages 6-12. As students grow and mature, discipline and basic vocabulary of various techniques are introduced through positive and nurturing teaching methods. The program’s structure allows students, according to their age and level, to choose their favorite style of dance. peridance.com Physique Swimming: Make a splash in 2014 with Physique Swimming! Their award-winning aquatics program is open to swimmers of all ages and skill levels. With skilled instructors and a structured program students will transform into star swimmers and build aquatic confidence for life. physiqueswimming.com

Let your inner rainbow shine!

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

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

KARMA KIDS YOGA 104 West 14th Street, NYC PEACE-IN STUDIO 102 West 14th Street, NYC

karmakidsyoga.com | (646) 638-1444

Planet Han: Come and make noodles, dumplings, scallion pancakes, and many more authentic Chinese dishes in Planet Han’s kitchen while learning Mandarin! Han Chefs is an innovative class, for children ages 3 and up, designed to inspire, excite, and encourage a love of healthy food. Participants increase their Chinese vocabulary and learn about techniques, tools, utensils, and ingredients. Classes start January 19, 2014. planethanchinese.com Playgarden: Little ones 18 months to 6 years old learn to passe and pirouette at PlayBallet. Rhythm, muscle control, and balletic terms and etiquette are introduced through unique songs and choreography. Kids of all ages become superstars on the stage in our first-class, end of year recital on June 1, 2014. playgardennyc.com Poppyseed Pre-Nursery: At Boogying Babes from Poppyseed Pre-Nursery, babies and toddlers boogie ‘n bond with parent or caregiver in cheerful song as they drum the beat, rock in rhythm, sway with scarves to the strum of guitar, and more! Class starts January 22, 2014. poppyseedprenursery.com The Prenatal Yoga Center: In the Core Health Workshop continued on page 54 www.newyorkfamily.com January 2014 | New York Family

continued from page 53

with Jyothi postnatal class students will check for diastasis recti, the separation of abdominal muscles that often occurs during pregnancy. New moms will discuss the anatomy and physiology of the core and learn how to effectively strengthen their core. Babies are welcome; workshop will be held on January 28, 2014 (for the latest from the Prenatal Yoga Center see our New Kids On The Block sidebar). prenatalyogacenter.com Private Picassos: Private Picassos’ In-Home Group Art Classes are 45-minute long programs that bring their popular Public Classes directly to your home for groups of four kids or more. A Private Picassos instructor will bring all of the necessary materials to facilitate this class in your home and will determine which of their curriculums would best suit the students’ ages (from 18 months and up) and interests. privatepicassos.com RoboFun: RoboFun offers dynamic and innovative LEGO Robotics Afterschool Clubs for creative, inquisitive kids! Students in grades K-6 will enjoy experimenting with science while they learn to design, construct and program robots using age appropriate LEGO technology. Offerings include Pre-Robotics (for kindergarteners), RCX or WeDo (grades 1-3), and NXT Mindstorms (grades 4-6). Afterschool clubs begin the week of January 6, 2014. robofun.org Rutgers Community Programs: Spark curiosity and creativity with RCP’s Once Upon a Child programs— interdisciplinary, theme-based afternoon classes for ages 3-5. Explore science experiments and construction in Once Upon a Discovery; dramatic play, dance and story-based art in Once Upon a Fairy Tale; and world travel through food, games, and music in Once Upon a Journey. Classes start January 7, 2014. rutgerschurch.org The School At Steps: Explore the exciting world of dance at the School at Steps. The Young Dancers Program, for ages 2-6, offers a nurturing and full-filled dance experience that fosters imagination, body coordination, and musicality through creative movement. Register early, classes begin January 27, 2014. stepsnyc.com/school SciTech Kids: SciTech Kids’ Afterschool and Weekend Programs enable budding scientists, ages 3-15 the ability to discover and explore STEM + the Arts through observations, experimentation, storytelling, and creative play. While engaging in an activity, young scientists are encouraged to observe, predict, and interpret their findings. sci-techkids.com socialsklz:-): clubsocialsklz:-) is an engaging 10- week afterschool program for everyday children! “KIDZ” will learn proper greetings and introductions, communication skills, phone interaction, dining skills, empathy, and more, through activities, role-play, and a mini-excursion in the neighborhood. The workshop series culminates with an in-class dinner party. Classes start January 8, 2014. socialsklz.com

continued on page 56

New York Family | January 2014

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The Art for Kids Program at the School of Visual Arts

L to R: Kids at Work; Super Soccer Stars

Age-appropriate art classes for young people in grades K-9 enrich a child’s knowledge of art while exploring a wide variety of materials. Classes maintain a teacher-student ratio of one to nine and are taught by SVA art educators and art education graduate students who are also professional artists. Classes are held during the fall, spring and summer. The tuition for the ten sessions $220.

For further information, please go to:

sva.edu/special-programs/art-for-kids-k-9

COUNTRY DAY CAMP -ed Co yrs. 4 4-1

in the city since 1971

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JUNE 30th – AUG 21st

FREE Winter Family Festival Sat, 1/11/14 Call 212.316.7530 for tour & brochure Visit www.actprograms.org 56

New York Family | January 2014

SocRoc: SocRoc will be holding soccer class in Central Park for kids ages 2-3 taught by SocRoc owner, and former pro soccer player, James Christie. SocRoc will teach goal scoring, dribbling, kicking, balance, coordination, and flexibility—with an emphasis on fun! Classes start January 25, 2014. jcsocroc.com SPORTIME Randall’s Island: Grab your tennis racket and get out to SPORTIME Randall’s Island and the John McEnroe Tennis Academy and check out the MacStart Tennis Program for players ages 3-7. This class offers 60 minutes of highenergy tennis, using specialized tennis balls and equipment, and innovative teaching techniques. Classes begin January 25, 2014. sportimeny.com/manhattan Super Soccer Stars: Super Soccer Stars teaches soccer skills in a fun, non-competitive, and educational environment. Through their age-specific curriculum, they use soccer to nurture, build self-confidence, and develop teamwork. Kick & Play—their parent-child pre-soccer program—is perfect for tots ages 12-24 months. supersoccerstars.com; kickandplay.com SwimJim: Winter is the best time to dive in and get a head start on those summer swimming skills. SwimJim’s Learn to Swim Beginner program, SwimKids, offers beginners the chance to enjoy the water, gain confidence, and learn valuable skills. It is never too early or too late to learn to swim. Swimming is a life long sport that saves lives. swimjim.com TADA! Youth Theater: For thespians ages 2-3 and their caregivers, TADA!’s Theater On Their Scale (T.O.T.S) develops language and coordination through musical movement. T.O.T.S. incorporates song and story using cooperative play, sign language, and creative exploration—a perfect blend for toddlers and their caregivers! Classes start January 13, 2014. tadatheater.com Tennis Innovators: Don’t let the cold weather keep your child off the courts! Tennis Innovators offers captivating programs delivering all aspects of tennis with an innovative and fun approach, all indoors. Players will develop hand-eye coordination and technique, during interactive classes. The 10 & Under Tennis Academies are designed to encourage play and a love for the sport for players of any level and age. tennisinnovators.com

www.newyorkfamily.com

Training the dancers of tomorrow Photo by E. Patino

Enroll now for Young Dancers Program (ages 2-6) & Technique Classes (ages 6-18)

L to R: School at Steps; Yogi Beans

West Side Taekwondo: if your child has the indoor blues, let them run, jump and kiop at West Side Taekwondo. They offer a winter semester for kids ages 4-5. At West Side Taekwondo, children will learn the ideas of discipline, respect, and confidence through activities designed to increase aerobic capacity, sharpen motor skills, and increase focus. westsidetkd.com

The School at Steps is a division of Steps on Broadway

2121 Broadway, NYC 10023  212.874.3678  StepsNYC.com/school YMCA (Vanderbilt): Starting January 6, 2014, kids ages 2-4 can check out eight-week sessions of Preschool Spanish at the Vanderbilt YMCA. Kids will discover SpanishSAS_NYFamilyJan2014_QtrPg.indd 1 12/12/13 York Preparatory School in an interactive and engaging environment that builds 40 West 68th Street vocabulary and social skills. They’ll learn concepts like New York, NY 10023 www.yorkprep.org colors, shapes, numbers, and opposites using puppetry, art, songs, and more! ymcanyc.org/vanderbilt Yogi Beans: The Me & My Bean Yoga (for walkers up to age 2, and for ages 2-4) at Yogi Beans’ UES Studio will introduce basic yoga postures to your little one in a playful way. Musical instruments, colorful props, and catchy songs are incorporated to keep up with your toddler’s imagination. Adult participation required. yogibeans.com ZGT: It’s time to start ordering Chinese food in Mandarin! This winter’s speaking class for intermediate students grades 3-5 is one of ZGT’s favorite offerings. Their native and non-native teachers make learning Mandarin fun and easy and know how to connect with children so they’ll want to come to Mandarin class. zgtnewyork.com

FOR BELLIES & BABIES HAVE A NEWBORN OR EXPECTING A BUNDLE OF JOY? THERE’S A CLASS FOR YOU TOO! VISIT NEWYORKFAMILY.COM TO SEE STORIES ON GREAT NYC PRE- AND POST-NATAL RESOURCES AND TO CHECK OUT OUR MOMMY & ME CLASS ROUNDUPS!

www.newyorkfamily.com

Photo by E. Patino

TLB Music: Early music education blends together with art appreciation in TLB’s newest music class series for ages infant to 5 years: Colors with Cozmo. Each week, the music class is inspired by a new color and famous paintings. From Dalí to Debussy and Monet to Mozart—TLB will cover it all while making music, introducing orchestra instruments, and targeting developmental goals through play. tlbmusic.com

1:44 PM

“An Intimate Place to Learn in the Heart of a Great City” Dear Parents: You are cordially invited to attend one of our OPEN HOUSES at York Preparatory School.

Monday, January 13th 9:30 PM – 10:30 AM Wednesday, January 22nd 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM RSVP to the Admissions Office at: 212-362-0400 ext. 133 or egarcia@yorkprep.org York Prep is a coeducational college preparatory school for grades 6-12.

January 2014 | New York Family

home&away

CAMP COUNTDOWN

PERFECT

MATCH Young paddlers at Camp Incarnation

10 Things To Consider When Choosing A Summer Camp By Jess Michaels You’ve made the decision to send your child to camp, but what should you be looking for in a camp program? There are many options and considerations, but finding a camp that’s a good match for your child is worth all the research. We’ve got the scoop on 10 key issues. Mission And Philosophy: When checking out a camp, look beyond the pretty pictures to consider the camp’s mission statement and philosophy to make sure they’re in sync with your family’s values. If the camp’s website doesn’t fully address these matters, ask the camp director about them, with a mind toward finding out the type of child who’s a successful participant in their program. “Each camp has its own philosophy and the camp you select should be consistent with your own parenting style,” says Doug Volan, owner and director of Mount Tom Day Camp in New Rochelle, NY. “For example, is the camp highly competitive or is the focus on personal best? Does the camp concentrate on building life skills along with providing fun? Is there a focus on values such as compassion and integrity?” Questions like these will give families a better understanding of the camp’s goals and culture.

New York Family | January 2014

General Or Specialty: Beyond the camp’s overriding philosophy and goals for its campers, it’s helpful to think about a more tangible aspect: Are you looking for a traditional, well-rounded experience or a more specialized program for your child? Think about what activities are must-haves for your child, then make sure the camp offers them. Ask how long each activity lasts and how many electives children have in their schedule. Finally, keep in mind that most specialty camps weave in a lot of traditional activities as well— so the question really comes down to what kind of balance you’re looking for. Camp Director: Find out about the camp director’s background and whether he or she is a year-round camp professional or a seasonal employee. “Yearround camp professionals spend all their time making camp the best possible experience for children,” Volan says. “They realize camp is about more than just recreation, it’s about youth development as well.” While this is true, we wouldn’t automatically dismiss the strengths and abilities of a director who might be, for example, a teacher during the off-season (while the year-round administration is tended to by the camp owner). That’s why it’s always worth speaking with the camp director to learn about the camp and get a feel for his or her personality. Directors know these kinds of conversations are part of the process, and the good ones welcome the discussions because they want a good match too. Generally, you can connect continued on page 60

www.newyorkfamily.com

continued from page 58

Enrollment Options: Ask about the duration of the program and how much flexibility there is in the schedule. For day camp, ask about the length of the day, whether there’s before and after care, and if transportation is provided. These types of logistical considerations will help narrow down your search by which camps will fit your family’s daily, weekly, and seasonal schedules.

All smiles at Woodmont Day Camp

with the camp director through phone calls, written correspondence, and in-office visits, but some camp directors will also visit you at your home or meet you on a camp tour. Ultimately, follow your instincts. If you don’t really care for the leader, then the camp is probably not right for your child. You must feel comfortable entrusting your child’s care to this person. Your Child’s Involvement: Make sure your child takes part in the process of choosing a camp. “Allowing your child to have a voice in searching for and selecting camps is extremely important. Parents should have a conversation with their kids about what they hope to get out of [the experience],” says Liza Wittenberg, director of Berkshire Soccer Academy for Girls, a specialty soccer camp set in a traditional camp environment in Otis, MA. Search camps online with your child and tour camps together. The more involved children are in the process, the more ownership they feel, which will help ease concerns about camp. Safety Procedures: Reputable camps—and certainly ones that are part of the American Camp Association—have very high standards for camper safety. You’re likely to be impressed with what they have to say about medical personnel on property, emergency plans, staff screening procedures, and instructor qualifications. Sensitivity to Camper Needs: If your child has a special requirement, whether it’s in regard to food allergies or medical needs or behavioral challenges like ADD, ask how the camp approaches these situations. Parents need to be honest and upfront about their child’s special needs to be sure that the camp has not only the ability but also the desire to handle them. Don’t worry about losing an opportunity for your child; if a camp seems reluctant to accommodate, better to go somewhere that welcomes and understands children like yours.

New York Family | January 2014

Staff: Families should ask about who will be caring for their child. Inquire about the age of the staff, their experience, pre-season and ongoing staff trainings, background checks, the interview process, camper-to-staff ratios, and supervision in cabins and during various activities. “An important factor in developing trust in a camp program is for parents to understand how staff members are selected and trained,” Wittenberg says. “Parents should be looking for camps that employ rigorous interview processes, including background checks and professional references.” At a minimum, camp staff should be trained in safety regulations, emergency procedures, communication, behavior management techniques, appropriate staff and camper behavior, and specific procedures for supervision. Additionally, look for camps with large numbers of alumni on staff—one great barometer of a camp’s popularity is if many of its current counselors were once campers there themselves. Day or Overnight: The big question. When deciding between day and sleepaway camp, parents should consider a child’s age and maturity, that child’s overnight experiences to date, and whether they’ve been pleasant and successful in such situations. If you’re leaning towards sleepaway, your child should be independent enough to go away for an extended period of time with the ability to take care of themselves to some degree, including showering, getting dressed, and brushing his or her teeth without supervision. It boils down to this: Does the child think they’re ready, and do they want to go? Outside Review: Make sure the camp is inspected by the local Department of Health and find out if the program is a member of the American Camp Association (ACA), which is the only camp accreditation program in the country, based upon 300 health, safety, and program standards. The ACA goes well beyond what is required by departments of health and addresses specific areas of programming, personnel, health care, emergency response, management practices, and youth development. Of course, there are great camps that choose not to participate in the ACA, but it’s a good idea to ask them why and find out how they maintain their standards.

For more camp info and to register for our January and February Camp Fairs, check out newyorkfamilycamps.com.

www.newyorkfamily.com

Calling all kids ages 4 and up… We’ve got your game, so start playing now! Announcing junior tennis at Hunter College, Avenues School and Columbia Prep. Advantage offers expert instruction, individual attention and plenty of fun! Players ages 4 to 10 love QuickStart (QS) – our customized tennis program with smaller-sized courts and racquets plus slower-bouncing balls. Boys and girls learn age- and stage-appropriate skills, advancing as they’re ready. Players 11 and older benefit from our Junior Programs (JP) – improving their game and working on competitive play.

First class is FREE for new students! Select your programs and locations! Location

Program

Avenues

Columbia Prep

Hunter College

QS & JP

Both QS & JP are also available at: Manhattan Plaza Racquet Club Roosevelt Island Racquet Club New York Tennis Club

Sign up today! QuickStart – contact Gabe Slotnick at 212-594-0554 or gslotnick@advantagetennisclubs.com. Or visit www.quickstartny.com Junior Programs – for more information – contact Xavier Luna at xluna@advantagetennisclubs.com

Avenues School Gym 259 10th Avenue, New York, NY 10001

Columbia Prep School Gym 4 W. 93rd St., New York, NY 10025

Hunter College Lexington Ave. & 68th St. New York, NY 10065

Manhattan Plaza Racquet Club 450 W. 43rd St. New York, NY 10036

New York Tennis Club 3081 Harding Ave., Bronx, NY 10465

Roosevelt Island Sports Park Gym Immediately adjacent to Roosevelt Island Racquet Club

Find us at Hunter! Use the Hunter West entrance at 68th and Lexington. Take the escalators on your left down to level B2. Turn right by the locker room, then take the first available left. Take the elevator to level B4 (or take the stairs down 2 flights), go left, and follow the stairwell to lower gym B4.

THE

MOMS OF

REAL

E S TAT E PA R T 3

By Eric Messinger

Over the course of the last few months, we have introduced you to eight local mothers, who also happen to be superstars in the big bad world of NYC real estate. We asked them about their personal and professional lives—touching on everything from their career milestones to their fave spots in the city to unwind with family. Readers valued their unique perspectives—which were shaped as much by their roles as parents as their sense of work savvy. Read on for our latest installment, which features a pair of moms who, once again, graciously share their tips and tales.

KATIE MCCONNAUGHEY, VICE PRESIDENT, ACCOUNT SERVICES AT RODE ADVERTISING Describe your main professional responsibilities. I work with my clients on brand development, product positioning, media planning, and executing marketing strategies. I manage the design process for logos, brochures, websites, leasing displays, ads, and all marketing materials, ensuring all is delivered on time, in budget, and looking gorgeous.

New York Family | January 2014

What do you love most about your job? What are its biggest challenges? I love a lot of things about my job. I guess one of the things I like most is the pace. I know people that spend their days trying to look busy in front of their bosses. I certainly don’t have that problem and would never want it. The days at RODE whiz by, and I’m usually left feeling smug about the work I did. Tell us about a project you consider one of your career highlights. Crystal Point Condos in Jersey City, a 42-story waterfront condominium, was the first building that I worked on start to finish (from naming and branding the community, all the way through to sell out). It ended on a high note, with our team winning the 2010 [National Association of Home Builders] award for “Community of the Year.” What neighborhood and in what kind of housing do you live? I live in Sunnyside Queens! Queens gets a bad rap. But we—my husband and I—feel like we got in on the neighborhood early. We still feel like it’s one of Queens’ best kept secrets. We live in an 1,100-squarefoot 2-bedroom apartment. It is in one of the typical 6-story brick buildings.

Khaki Bedford Photography

In The Third Installment Of Our “Parents & Real Estate” Series We Chat With Two NYC Moms—And Real Estate Veterans—About What “Home” Means To Them

Katie McConnaughey with her husband and her daughter, Willa.

What do you like most about your neighborhood? What do you like least? www.newyorkfamily.com

The things I like most are: It’s 15 minutes to Grand Central Station on the 7 train. There are really great grocery stores—the freshest produce at great prices. There is a park across the street with an awesome rainbow sprinkler for hot days—I can see it out my window. There are a bunch of really nice tree-lined streets—making for nice walks. But we need more daycare options, especially for children under 2 years. What do you like most about your home? What do you like least? Well, I live in an old building. Sometimes I like that (for the character aspect), but sometimes I don’t (because the elevator breaks down and there are 5 million coats of paint on the walls). Tell us about your family and about some of the neighborhood places and activities you like to share with them. We have one sweet, great-sleeping 18-month-old baby girl. Her name is Willa Babic—no middle name— Eastern Europeans don’t have a middle name. Willa’s father is from the former Yugoslavia. On the days I don’t have to commute into the city, we have coffee, fresh baked empanadas, and cheese breads at Mira Cali—an amazing authentic Colombian bakery just a few blocks from my apartment. What advice would you give to families who are debating whether to raise city kids or move to the burbs? For us, we prefer to raise our child in the city. It is true that accomplishing simple tasks is often harder, more expensive, and more time-consuming in the city, but to the kid it doesn’t really matter. Those difficulties are offset by the exposure to diverse arts, languages, food, museums, programs, and activities.

Christine Miller Martin, Real Estate Broker and New York Residential Specialist at Warburg Realty What do you love most about your job? What are its biggest challenges? First, I love the people I work with at Warburg. I really look forward to coming to work each day. Second, I love working with my clients. I am acutely aware that I am advising an individual, couple, or family on their single largest investChristine Miller Martin with her ment, and I take daughter, Phoebe. that responsibility very seriously. Finally, I love that I work for myself. Of course, the flip side to being an independent contracwww.newyorkfamily.com

tor is something surprisingly few people realize about brokers: we make no salary and there are no benefits. Do you have any personal rules or priorities to help you balance work and home life? Like most working women, I don’t balance, I juggle. My life’s priority is the health, happiness and welfare of my 12-year-old daughter, Phoebe. I have been very blessed to have recently gotten engaged to a wonderful man, so we are in the midst of creating our very own “Modern Family”—made all the more fitting as he’s Colombian [like one of the show’s characters, Gloria]! While I occasionally have to be out in the evening for an event, most nights we have a dinner at the dining room table with grace led by Phoebe. What neighborhood and in what kind of housing do you live? Until very recently, my daughter and I lived in a small, intimate pre-war co-op building on the Upper East Side off Park Avenue. Sadly, it wasn’t big enough for the three of us. Our new home is located in a luxury condominium on East 57th Street. It is larger, minimalist, with wonderful light and spectacular views of the Plaza, the Sherry Netherland, and Central Park. What are some of the neighborhood places and activities you like to share with your daughter? Now that we’re spending more time in Midtown, Serafina, Philippe, and Bottega del Vino are our new “hangout” places. What do you like most about your neighborhood? I have to tell you that I have found Midtown East to be a pleasant surprise. Selfishly it is a just a few blocks from my office and to my new three-bedroom exclusive at the Ritz Tower making showings a breeze, but it is also close to many of the restaurants and institutions that I frequent. The Madison and 5th Avenue buses have proven very convenient for my daughter’s commute to school. There’s a Whole Foods a few blocks away and just as many Duane Reades and Starbucks’ as our old stomping grounds. We’re still close to the Park, which is key. What advice do you have for families thinking of moving out of the city? This one hits home, as about a decade ago I tried living in Westchester and it lasted about nine months! It’s really a question of lifestyle. I suggest the following: One, stay with a friend, relative, or bed & breakfast in the area and do the commute. Consider renting for a year first to make sure you like suburban living. Two, wait until your children are school-age before you move so you can quickly assimilate into the community. Three, have you considered Brooklyn?

For more urban living tips, visit newyorkfamily.com January 2014| New York Family

the last word

A Glass Of Hope An NYC Mom Of Three Reconsiders Her Relationship With White Wine

When I write about wine, it is often with the staggered view from a meaningful relationship. We were in love. We broke up a few times. Then met again, had a good time at a party. We got back together. But I’m not sure that we’re meant to be. Late on a cold afternoon, the kids and I return to the apartment. It’s the second day after the end of Daylight Saving Time, and the sky is already a delicate darkness. My son flips on the main light, revealing breakfast leftovers still on the table. The afternoon has been long: school, gymnastics, playground, sushi dinner. They run to put on pajamas in exchange for a promised dessert from their dwindling stash of Halloween candy. The evening appears endless. Alone in the kitchen, I approach the wine fridge. You again. A cold glass of white wine would take the edge off a frustrating day and get me through the next couple of hours of homework, iPad supervision, disputed countdowns to bedtime. It would lessen the likelihood of my screaming for them to brush their teeth. I have heard this from other mothers with small children: drinking makes me a nicer mother. But I like to wait. The moment I look forward to is pouring a glass after the kids are in bed. I check on them, and return to my laptop to work, cold glass of Sauvignon Blanc at my side. I write, stop to pour another glass, go back to writing. Having a husband who works late, wine is a giddy and reliable companion. It fills the loneliness, the boring hours, and even conceals the terror of a blank screen. Tonight I grab a Diet Coke from the wine fridge. I examine this love affair of mine from time to time. During Superstorm Sandy, when we lived in hotels for two weeks watching helplessly as our neighbors suffered greatly, it was easy to face my fears and sorrows with wine; more recently, I was embarrassed by the number of bottles left in the recycling at our vacation house. Still, in our quiet apartment at the end of a draining day, when there is time for worry and obsession—wine is a preferred comfort. With wine, I feel a familiar bravery about life’s challenges, and the

New York Family | January 2014

thoughts come and move about without judgment or impulse. With wine, I am a handler. The problem is that in life, I am not. I am bruised easily by the events of the world, rattled by the chaos in my home, immobilized by my doubts. Caring for three young children, always, is infused with a mix of agitation, fierce affection, and unimaginable fear of what is beyond my control. Two (or three) glasses of wine over several hours at night takes the edge off the panic. I never get drunk either. But since the summer, an exquisite kind of guilt steals in. One Sunday morning this fall, my 6-year-old and I were reading books. She read Creepy Carrots, and I read Anna Quindlen’s Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake. She put her book down and sat close to me, reading the page I was reading. I helped her sound out: “...I could see the possibility of a life in which I would be defined not by who I was but by what went from a bottle into a glass and then into my mouth.” She asked what the author was talking about. “Alcohol,” I said. “Do you love that author?” She asked. “I do.” “I have two authors I am falling in love with: Joy Cowley and Peter Brown.” I picked up my coffee, re-read the page, thinking, once again, how many of my favorite women writers had, at some point, stopped drinking. The universe, my first grader had stumbled upon, is stubbornly ambiguous. As with relationships, we are always looking for something to guide us clearly: a sign? A lesson? New Year’s promises are daunting and useless to me. My relationship with wine won’t be part of a resolution. Once, I misguidedly resolved not to curse. I won’t make that mistake again—not with cursing and not with drinking. If there is drinking this year, let there be less. I hope for a prevalence of peace in the world, revelry with my family, clarity within my mind. Of these, let there be so much more. For more of Wendy Bradford, visit her blog, Mama One To Three at mamaonetothree.com. www.newyorkfamily.com

Illustration by Justin Winslow

By Wendy Bradford

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