11/29 A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage 11/30 Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis 12/13-26 New Jersey Ballet’s The Nutcracker with New Jersey Symphony
1/5 Dream Like Taylor! A Live Band Journey Through The Enchanted Eras of Taylor Swift
1/26 Pinkalicious The Musical*
2/22 The Gazillion Bubble Show
3/7 Kodo
3/9 A Year with Frog and Toad*
3/21 The National Dance Company of Ireland: Rhythm of the Dance
3/22 Sesame Street Live! Say Hello*
4/5-6 Stomp
5/4 Pete the Cat*
5/13 Cat Kid Comic Club: The Musical*
HELP WANTED
Yes, there are great job opps for your neurodiverse teen or young adult!
CAMP PLAN
It’s never too early to start planning for summer camp.
HOLI-YAY TIME!
The ultimate guide to festive attractions in NJ, NY and PA
STAGE BRIGHT
Our area’s best holiday theater
SPIRITED CITIES
Plan a festive day trip to NYC and Philly!
HIT THE SLOPES! Where to ski and snowboard this winter DECEMBER PLANNER
Holiday events, winter festivals and NYE celebrations!
Stuff We Love
SWEET TREAT
This Christmas tree sheet cake will be the star of your spread!
HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN
Add daily surprises to the season with these fun finds!
EYES ON THE PRIZE
Inspo to help kids achieve their goals
WINTER HEALTH CHECK
Keep them feeling their best in the frigid temps
KEEP IT CLEAN
Help your kids step up their hygiene with these expert tips.
DENTAL SOS
Tips for every kind of emergency
BONDING TIME
Ways to (really!) connect with your teen
IS IT PERIMENOPAUSE?
Experts weigh in on how to manage the symptoms.
NJ’sFavorite Kids’Docs
Don’t miss our readerrecommended list ofthe best pediatric doctors, dentists and specialists!
It’s Holi-Yay Time!
Our favorite time of year is here and with it comes embracing holiday traditions. Whether that means heading to a spectacular lights display, boarding a holiday train or visiting New York City to see the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, we’re all about slowing down to take it in.
Every year, we make it our mission to round up the best holiday attractions in and around New Jersey! From Bergen County’s Winter Wonderland in Paramus to Magic of Lights in Holmdel to the Light Show on the Lake in Historic Smithville, we’ve pulled together a massive list of the area’s most festive spots starting on page 99.
Do you and your kids see The Nutcracker every year? Whether that’s your holiday jam or you’re looking to see a new musical or play, you’ll find a festive performance near you on page 107. As you make your holiday shopping list, be sure to check out our gift guide for the kids, your pets and you on page 17.
This month, we’re proud to share our 16th annual list of New Jersey’s Favorite Kids’ Docs. The list was made by parents like you—our readers—and it includes New Jersey’s most recommended and trusted pediatric doctors, dentists and specialists. Check it out on page 39 and go to njfamily.com/kidsdocs to save it online.
No matter what your holiday traditions look like, we wish you a season filled with joy, gratitude and good health with the ones you love.
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The Jersey Shore is aglow with holiday spirit during Sea of Lights at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Pt. Pleasant.
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Make a Vintage Christmas Tree Cake
For cake
Baking spray with flour
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp kosher salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temp
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temp
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup milk, at room temp
1 14- by 10-in. Christmas tree-shaped cake pan (like Wilton Christmas Tree Pan, Amazon)
For frosting
2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temp
½ tsp kosher salt
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Orange, red, green, blue and yellow fondant Tree light–shaped silicone food mold
Active 40 min. Total 2 hr. 30 min. Serves 10 to 12
Make cake: Heat oven to 325°F. Coat Christmas tree–shaped cake pan with baking spray. In bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt.
Using electric mixer on medium speed, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 2 to 4 min. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating until incorporated after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Reduce speed to low and add flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with flour mixture, just until incorporated.
Spread batter into prepared pan and bake until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean, 25 to 30 min. Let cool in pan on wire rack 10 min., then invert onto rack to cool completely.
Make frosting and decorate: Using electric mixer on medium speed, beat sugar, butter and salt until fluffy, 2 to 3 min. Beat in milk until fluffy, 2 to 3 min. Beat in vanilla. Frost top and sides of cake.
Shape fondant into Christmas lights using silicone mold. Arrange on cake.
VINTAGE CHRISTMAS TREE CAKE: COURTESY OF WOMAN’S DAY/ BRIAN WOODCOCK. (INSET) COURTESY OF WOMAN’S DAY/ MIKE GARTEN.
HOLIDAY ADVENT
Open a little happiness each day with countdown calendars for every interest!
1. SELF-CARE SURPRISES This 12-day advent calendar has a dozen petitesized luxury goodies like perfume, hand cream and more by Margot Elena, one of Oprah’s favorites. 12 [Magical] Days All Things Beautiful Advent Calendar, Margot Elena. $115, margotelena.com 2. 8 NIGHTS OF HANUKKAH PUZZLE
Celebrate the Festival of Lights every night with eight 48-piece puzzles behind each window. Happy Hanukkah! Countdown Puzzle Set, Mudpuppy. $19.99, mudpuppy.com 3. HOLIDAYCHEERS Toast the season with 24 6-ounce bottles of wine from Italy, Spain, South Africa, Argentina, Australia and California. Red, White & Rosé Wine Advent Calendar, In Good Taste. $144.99, ingoodtaste.com 4. KINDNESS COUNTS Inspire kindness and conversation with 25 easy-todo, self-reflective activities designed to build confidence and resilience through daily affirmations. The “New York” Sharing Kindness Advent Calendar, Sharing Kindness. $34.95, sharingkindness.com 5. PICTURE PERFECT This advent calendar has 12 windows, each with a mini puzzle that comes together to create a 500-piece holiday image. Home for the Holidays 500-Piece Advent Puzzle Calendar, Galison. $24.99, galison.com 6. TRIM THE TREE Have a tree that could use some love? Open a new resin ornament every day in December leading up to Christmas. Christmas Advent Calendar, Old World Christmas. $42.97, amazon.com
GOAL GETTER
Six ways to help your kids set and achieve goals in 2025
Setting goals is nothing new for grown-ups (I’m looking at you, New Year’s Resolutions!). But goals are not just for the new year, and they’re not just for adults. Kids benefit from working toward something they want to achieve, too. Whether it’s a cleaner room or less screen time, kids will get inspired by working toward age-appropriate goals. The secret is setting them up for success. Here are six ways to help your kids set and achieve goals:
DECIDE WHAT TO DO
As parents, we can think of a few things our kids could work on. But what will improve their daily life and offer them a chance for success? If they’re working on being more active, don’t start with walking a mile a day. Start with something fun like taking the dog for a family walk after school. If a clean room is the goal, try making the bed daily. Once they have succeeded in that area, they can build on it. Walking the dog twice a week becomes four times a week. Making the bed grows to putting dirty clothes in the hamper. Allow each goal to grow over time.
TALK ABOUT THE DETAILS RIGHT AWAY
Set a start date and an end date. Kids often need quick wins, so shorter timeframes are great. Have young kids go for a few days and build up to a week. Older kids and tweens can go longer stretches, but usually no more than a month. Offering quick wins gives them confidence and momentum to stick with it.
Another important detail is how your child will keep track of their progress. You can try an app or the classic sticker chart. Even a simple star on the family calendar works.
WHAT YOU FOCUS ON MATTERS
A negative approach won’t get you far. It’s true for us and our kids. While we may want them to stop eating junk food or to spend less time on screens, focusing on the positive yields better results. Instead of eating less junk food, try eating an extra veggie each day. Cutting down on screen time becomes playing a new card game. Finding something good to do is more enticing than stopping something else.
THE SECRET TO SUCCESS
We all want our kids to be successful and achieve their goals for their sake and ours. I want my kids to get off their screens, clean their rooms and help tidy the house. One of the best ways to motivate your kids is by tackling some of these things together.
Kids have a hard time saying no when Mom or Dad sits down to
By Rebecca Hastings
play cards with them or challenges them to race to the mailbox. Even a contest to make your bed the fastest motivates kids to do the work. Interaction is a surefire way to help kids make progress on their goals.
HOW TO HANDLE SETBACKS
None of us want to believe there will be setbacks in goal setting. The whole point is moving forward. But perfection isn’t realistic. There will be days when things don’t go perfectly. The key is how you handle it.
Three ways to handle a setback:
One missed opportunity isn’t a failure. Give grace and keep going. Losing steam feels frustrating. Look back at the progress they made.
Things sometimes go haywire. Give a fresh start with a shorter timeframe.
No matter which method you use, your kids will learn that goals are not a pass/fail system. It’s all about progress.
THE KEY TO REWARDS
If the satisfaction of a clean room was enough of a motivator, I wouldn’t have a pile of mail, a random recipe cut out from a magazine, and a screwdriver on my nightstand. We need a reward to motivate us to keep going to the finish line. Kids need that, too.
Before kids start working on a new goal, decide how they will celebrate at the end of the timeframe. Will it be going out for ice cream or watching a favorite movie? Maybe a campout in the living room or a trip to the bookstore? What about an extra story at bedtime?
Whatever reward you give, make sure it doesn’t undo your child’s hard work. The reward should be clear at the beginning and it should be finite. Having ice cream every night now that your child is eating more veggies doesn’t support the goal. The reward is a singular experience to celebrate the progress they made.
To make your child’s goal setting successful, consider how your child will track their progress and work toward an appropriate reward that is motivating and works for you. For most kids, the reward needs to be right away to associate it with their hard work. After a week of making their bed, day seven gets the extra story. When they have walked the dog twice a week for a month, a walk to the ice cream shop is on day 30. Define rewards, track progress, and provide the reward to give kids a feeling of success in setting their own goals now and in the future.
—Rebecca Hastings is a former teacher whose writing has been featured in The Washington Post and Parents.
We’re gearing up for
One Wild Summer!
Children ages 2 - 12 will enjoy an unforgettable summer as we explore animals past, present, and legendary. Join us for:
• Daily swim lessons and outdoor activities
• Field trips & in-house special guests
• Sports, cooking, Montessori time & more Camp starts July 1 & spots fill up quickly. Schedule a tour of one of our 20 NJ locations!
3 4 1 5 6 2
1. BEARY GOOD STORIES Hook up this teddy bear to an app and he’ll create AI-generated stories about characters, foods and more. Poe the AI Story Bear, PLAi. $49.99, kohls.com 2. LET’S CHAT Ms. Rachel helped design this doll herself, recording phrases your toddler knows and loves. The goal? To encourage early speech development. Ms. Rachel Speak & Sing Doll, Ms. Rachel. $29.99, target.com 3. GALACTIC FORCE This 2-foot villain comes to life with lights and sounds, including the Dark Lord’s iconic breathing sounds. Star Wars Darth Vader Bot, Imaginext. $149.99, target.
4. PLAYTIME IN PARIS They’ll channel their inner Parisian with this mega Eiffel Tower that has three levels, including a Parisian picnic area, a restaurant with a transforming balcony, and a zip line – plus an elevator. Miraculous Paris Heroes Playset, Playmates Toys. $150, walmart.com
5. BRAIN BOOSTER They’ll practice problem-solving and critical thinking skills by taking on the 500 puzzles in this kit. Kanoodle Ultimate Champion 3D, Educational Insights. $19.59, amazon.com 6. SHRED ZONE This mini skatepark has three ramps to practice your finger skateboarding skills and tricks. Sk8 Crew 2-in-1 Transforming Ultra Sk8 Bus & Storage, Tech Deck. $19.99, amazon.com
7. FAIRYTALE FORTRESS Who can build the tallest tower and make it collapse? Where is Cinderella’s shoe hidden? This set will inspires hours of imaginative play. Cinderella’s Castle, Playmobile Junior and Disney. $69.99, amazon.com 8. BUILD WITH BLUEY Bluey fans can dig into 70 magnetic pieces to construct the Heeler family’s home. Bluey Heeler Home & 4WD Vehicle, Tile Town. $69.99, amazon.com 9. BELLY LAUGHS This sweet jackalope giggles and grins every time her belly is pressed. She’ll also sneeze and roar if you squeeze her nose or ear. Cleo the Mischievous Jackalope, Furlings. $39.99, amazon.com 10. MINION MADNESS The beloved movie comes to life via a buildable toy and small treehouse playset, which includes six minifigures and three buildable Minion toy figures. Despicable Me 4 Minions and Gru’s Family Mansion, LEGO. $99.99, target.com 11. TARGET RUN This check-out lane has lights and sounds, a hand-cranked conveyor belt, beeping scanner, bagging area, credit card swipe machine, working cash register and more. Target Toy Checklane, Target. $149.99, target.com
1. PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD Poptaters give Mr. Potato Head a new twist. The new designable figure heads for the season include He-Man, Sonic, Stranger Things and Squid Game. Poptaters, Poptaters. $14.99-$17.99, amazon.com 2. MINI MES Fourteen of your favorite Squishmallows have been squished down to 1-inch dolls. They include teeny accessories like a headband, cloud and mac-and-cheese bowl. Squish-a-longs, Squishmallows. $14.99, target.com 3. SPEED CHALLENGE Have you mastered the traditional Rubik’s Cube? If so, this 3-by-3 block challenges you to race at a faster pace. Rubik’s Cube 3x3 Magnetic Speed Cube, Rubik’s Store. $14.99, amazon. com 4. STICK TO IT Each wearable, shareable bracelet is more than meets the eye: it’s actually 10 holographic mini stickers you can pull off to decorate where you wish. Sticki Bands, Sticki Rolls. $9.99, amazon.com 5. FUNKMASTER Each retro-inspired plush will get your kids into the groove of the 1970s, good vibes and all. Swisheez Plush Collection, Spin Master. $9.99 each, amazon.com
1. ALL THAT GLITTERS They’ll dig into more than 450 colorful beads and charms to make friendship bracelets, personalized jewelry and more. Make It Alphabet DIY Bead Kit, $49. Super Smalls, supersmalls.com 2. CIRCUIT CREATOR This game challenges players to be the first to create a winning circuit by snapping together a path of parts between their light and the battery pack. Snap Circuits SNAP 2 IT, $39.99. Snap Circuits, walmart.com 3. STORY TIME Kids can choose their favorite Tonie character, put it on the speakerbox and be treated to stories and music (all minus a screen!). Toniebox Audio Player Starter Set, $171.95. Tonies, amazon.com 4. POP TO IT This collection of 46 silicone arches, sticks and X-shapes connect via ball-and-socket ends for endless structures. Pull them apart to hear a pop before making something new. Plip Kit, $34.95. Fat Brain Toys, amazon.com 5. SUPER STACKER This game of strategy and chance is all about building on the fly. Players will place bricks and tumps to create barriers all while building a unique structure. The player with the least bricks in hand at the end wins. Tummple, $21.99. Komarc Games, amazon.com 3 4 1 5
1. CAT CAVE Your fur baby will love hiding and relaxing in this cozy cave made with organic wool lanolin that reminds cats of their mothers. It’s handmade and handprinted in Nepal. Rainbow Eco Kitty Cave, $72. Friendsheep Wool, friendsheepwool. com 2. SO FETCH Made from recycled rubber and resin, this fun fetch toy has an ergonomic grip hand for throwing and a slobber-free pickup. Chuckit! EcoFetch™️ Launcher & Medium Ball, $8.99. Petmate, petmate.com 3. MEAL TIME This midcentury modern dog kibble storage and dispenser system is as sleek as it is practical. Kibble Dispenser, $295. Houndsy, houndsy.com 4. REINDEER GAMES This super soft microfiber plush is extra durable and the perfect toy for dogs who love to play tug for hours. Mighty® Micro Ball Medium Reindeer, $25.49. MyDogToy, mydogtoy. com 5. FELINE FOUNTAIN The 4-layer filtration system in this smart water fountain tracks water intake in real-time via an app, which also sends low water level alerts. Dockstream Smart Fountain, $79.99. PETLIBRO, petlibro.com 6. POOP DOG Would you carry your dog’s poop in your bag? The makers of this clever bag with a silicone double-walled, smell-proof chamber are betting you will. Also fits your phone, wallet, keys, hand sanitizer and treats. Schitty Kit, $29.99. DOG iD, dogid.com 3 4 1 5 6 2
Treat Yourself
1. ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE This journal will inspire you to recognize the people, moments, memories and more to be grateful for in your life (Inspiration and Happiness journals are also available). Gratitude Prompted™ Journal, Table Topics. $20, tabletopics.com 2. HANDMADE HAUTE Crafted by interior designer-turnedjewelry maker Beth Ladd, with the help of artisans in India, these lightweight, intricately designed beauties are sure to become a staple in your rotation. Mercer Earrings in Gold and White, $40. Beth Ladd Collections, bethladd. com 3. FULLY CHARGED This luxe hot pink super soft crew with lightning bolts is part of a collab between Minnie Rose and Westfield mom and author Meaghan B. Murphy, inspired by her book, “Your Fully Charged Life.” Cotton Cashmere Bolt Reversible Crew, $179. Minnie Rose, minnierose.com 4. GLAM ON THE GO This travel makeup and toiletry bag has two mesh pockets for smaller items, a removable case for a night out and a bottom compartment with straps for brushes, palettes, and other essentials. Jenny Train Case, $103. Stephanie Johnson, nordstrom. com 5. CELESTIAL SIPS Crafted in New York by a female-owned astrology-inspired wine brand, each of the 12 varieties in this collection match up with a Zodiac sign for a personalized pour. Sun Moon Rising Wines, $29.99 each. Sun Moon Rising Wine, sunmoonrisingwine.com
1. WRIST WANDERLUST This personalized gift allows you to add sand or stones from his favorite beach (or you can use your own). Men’s Beaded Adjustable Round Lava Bracelet, Dune Jewelry. $64, dunejewelry.com 2. SWEET SLEEP This luxury graphite-infused memory foam pillow contours to his head and neck for weightless support and a better night’s sleep. Cloud Memory Foam Pillow, Saatva. $135, saatva.com 3. A CUT ABOVE Gift your favorite cook a set of stainless steel chef’s, bread, santoku, serrated utility and pairing knives, plus four steak knives stored between acacia wood and acrylic in this uber modern set. Stainless Steel 10-Piece Knife Block Set, Schmidt Brothers. $199.99, crateandbarrel. com 4. PERFECT FIT The vibrant blue camolike design of this quarter zip is inspired by winter’s snow-laden winds. Men’s Performance Q-Zip, Mammoth, Sunday Swagger. $79, sundayswagger.com 5. HOT STUFF Heat Hot Sauce Shop is home to over 700 varieties of small-batch hot sauces, and these six are their best sellers. Most Wished-For 6 Pack, $52.99. Heat Hot Sauce Shop, heathotsauce.com 1 2 3 4 5
Breakthrough Care for the Routine and the Rare
Our leading experts provide comprehensive care at Primary and Specialty Care Centers across New Jersey, at our hospital campuses in Philadelphia and King of Prussia, and even in local hospitals near you. Whether your child’s needs are routine or rare, the best — and most trusted — pediatric care is here, when and where you need it.
Ranked No. 1 in the Mid-Atlantic Region* and among the best in the nation
To find CHOP in your community, scan this code or visit chop.edu/locations
Genesis, 2
HOW TO KEEP KIDS HEALTHY THIS WINTER
Tips to help prevent the kids (and you!) from getting sick
While you know to remind your kids to wash their hands over and over again, there are a few other things you can do to try to fend off whatever bug is circulating. Follow these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the CDC, and the National Eczema Association to keep your family healthy:
BE AWARE THAT PNEUMONIA IS ON THE RISE. Bacterial infections caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae are surging, with the highest increase among kids ages 5 to 17—especially ages 2 to 4. Often called “walking pneumonia” because symptoms may be mild and don’t keep people in bed, the illness resembles a cold with a fever, headache, and a slowly worsening cough. Younger kids may have diarrhea or vomiting. If your kid is sick, wheezing or has difficulty breathing (or has underlying issues such as asthma), ask your pediatrician if your child should be tested for pneumonia.
KEEP EVERYONE UPDATED ON VACCINES. Flu shots are recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older, and it’s not too late to get one because flu season runs throughout the winter. Also, ask your pediatrician if your kid needs any other shots, such as a COVID booster
By Arricca Elin SanSone
or the vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which has made a comeback in recent years, too.
MAKE SLEEP A PRIORITY. Sleep deprivation can impair our bodies’ abilities to fight off infections. So, get everyone to bed on time—including yourself! Most school-age kids need 9 to 12 hours of sleep per night. Even teens need more sleep than you think, typically about 8 to 10 hours per night
PROTECT YOUR KID’S SKIN. Eczema and dry, itchy skin can flare up due to winter’s cold and dry indoor environments. Protect the skin by using moisturizers with ingredients such as ceramides to repair skin that’s lost its water content. Running a humidifier also can help.
MANAGE STRESS. Stress makes us less able to fight off infections, so learn to minimize the chaos by making Sundays a day to prep for the week ahead. That means going over everyone’s schedules so you know who’s got practice, doctor’s appointments, and other commitments. Also, prep lunches, set up breakfast dishes, pick out clothes and put backpacks by the front door the night before so there’s not a crazed rush in the morning on school days. Less stress benefits everyone in the house.
A Step-by-Step Guide to KIDS’ HYGIENE
When it comes to hygiene, what should kids be doing, and when?
Does your child need constant reminders to wash their hands, put on deodorant, or trim their nails? It can be frustrating to help kids take ownership of their hygiene, but it’s a crucial life skill. That’s because maintaining good hygiene is not only essential for children’s health; it’s also vital for their self-esteem. Children who learn to care for their bodies feel more confident and capable. Check out our parents’ guide to teaching kids hygiene across different age groups.
INTRODUCING HYGIENE TO INFANTS & TODDLERS
Parents play a crucial role in teaching basic hygiene practices to toddlers—one that starts in infancy, says Basil Bruno, MD, a boardcertified pediatrician at Optum Pediatrics in Rochelle Park. He says this
By Heidi Borst
age is the perfect time to teach toddlers the importance of handwashing after playing, when using the restroom, and before meals.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, handwashing takes at least 20 seconds to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and keep you healthy. Dr. Bruno suggests using songs to make the process fun and engaging. “You can sing a nursery rhyme, like ‘The Itsy Bitsy Spider’ or ‘Mary Had a Little Lamb’ while cleaning a baby’s hands,” he says.
Establishing regular dental hygiene routines is also important, says Mary F. Campagnolo, MD, FAAFP, a board-certified family physician and medical director at Virtua Primary Care - Mansfield in Bordentown. She says you can start brushing with a soft toothbrush and fluoride-free
toothpaste (it’s safe to swallow) between the ages of one and two. “Consider scheduling their first dental exam to build a relationship with dental care,” she urges. The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist within six to 12 months of your baby’s first tooth eruption.
HYGIENE BASICS FOR 4- TO 6-YEAR-OLDS
By now, you’ve likely developed a regular bathing routine. By cultivating a fun-filled experience—think bathtub crayons, bath toys, and pretend play—Dr. Bruno says parents can prevent kids from seeing personal hygiene as just another chore to be completed. He suggests guiding kids through the steps of washing their bodies, gradually allowing them to do it independently (with supervision, of course!).
Dr. Campagnolo says kids can start using fluoride toothpaste around age three. She advises providing minimal assistance and observing children brushing their own teeth until about age six. “Encourage them to spit out toothpaste after brushing,” she says. Parents can make it fun by letting kids pick out toothbrushes and toothpaste with their favorite characters and flavors.
At this stage, hand hygiene can progress to nail trimming, says Dr. Campagnolo. “Children should be encouraged to trim their nails and wash under the nail edges, which can harbor infections,” she says.
Using charts with images, stickers or stars can be a great way to motivate kids to take ownership of their hygiene practices and celebrate successes.
PRACTICING HYGIENE IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Elementary schoolers can trim their nails and brush and floss their teeth thoroughly at this age. They should also be responsible for their bathing routines, including scrubbing and rinsing, says Dr. Campagnolo. Encourage them to take showers if they prefer, teaching them to wash their genital and anal areas, hair and underarms.
According to guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology,
Using charts with images, stickers or stars can be a great way to motivate kids to take ownership of their hygiene practices.
kids in this age group may not need a daily bath or shower. Even so, they should understand the importance of bathing after swimming, sweating, and getting dirty as well as wearing clean clothes.
PERSONAL HYGIENE CHANGES IN PUBERTY
Puberty starts around ages 10 to 14 in girls and 12 to 16 in boys, per the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Bruno says personal care items become essential as they experience hormonal changes that contribute to oily hair and skin, body odor, and body hair growth.
Body odor: Dr. Bruno advises children experiencing excess body odor to bathe daily and use deodorant. He says they can use antiperspirants once puberty starts. If clinical-strength over-the-counter brands don’t cut it, he recommends discussing prescription-strength options with your child’s pediatrician. Wearing breathable fabrics like cotton and other natural materials and changing clothes regularly, especially after physical activities, can help with strong body odor, too.
Oily skin and acne: Kids can manage oily skin and acne by keeping their skin clean. “Acne comes from your skin pores getting clogged,” explains Dr. Bruno. He recommends that kids use gentle skin care or acne products if necessary. Your pediatrician can recommend further acne treatment options if home care isn’t working.
Body hair: Parents can discuss options for body hair grooming or removal, such as shaving, waxing and depilatory creams, as advised by Dr. Bruno.
The best way to nurture a positive attitude toward personal care is to lead by example. Model good hygiene habits, engage in open discussions about body care, and celebrate your child’s efforts, no matter their stage. Making hygiene a natural part of daily life will help your child develop lifelong habits, contributing to their health and confidence.
Period Prep: Dr. Campagnolo offers the following tips for girls who’ve started menstruating:
Wash the exterior genital area daily.
Wipe from front to back to avoid infections.
Avoid using chemical cleansers in the vagina (they can cause yeast infections).
Change sanitary napkins every three to four hours.
Change tampons every four to eight hours.
Use unscented pads and tampons to reduce the possibility of skin irritation.
Discard used sanitary products wrapped in a tissue in the trash—never flush.
Seek medical advice if unusual odors, heavy period blood flow, unusual pains, or discharge occur.
—Heidi Borst is a mother, writer and lifestyle coach based in Wilmington, NC.
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DENTAL SOS!
A parent’s guide to dental emergencies and how to protect your kid’s pearly whites
By Arricca Elin SanSone
Maybe your toddler just fell on the pavement, your middle schooler dove off the slide and chipped a tooth, or your teen was horsing around and got an elbow in the face. As every parent knows, accidents happen all the time and many can lead to a dental emergency. From a knocked out or chipped tooth to a raging toothache, here’s how to handle the most common dental emergencies:
KNOCKED-OUT TOOTH
This will obviously cause serious trauma, so you’ll need to act fast. First, retrieve the tooth and hold it by the crown, not the root. Rinse the tooth with saline, water or milk, then put it back in the socket. “There are periodontal ligament cells on the outside of the root that will reattach, so you need to keep them alive by reinserting the tooth,” says board-certified pediatric dentist Mario Ramos, DMD, with
Dentistry and Orthodontics of Midland Park and president of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Foundation. “It doesn’t matter if you don’t get it in there just right or if it’s backwards, just get it in place.”
Then get to your dentist ASAP. Research shows a tooth put back into place within an hour has the best long-term prognosis, says Ramos. If you can’t get the tooth back in, place it in milk (not water because the pH of water harms the cells) while you get to the dentist. Or use a commercial tooth preservation product, such as Save-A-Tooth Preservation Kit. Toss one of these kits in your first aid kit or your child’s bag at practice so it’s always handy, suggests Ramos.
If the tooth was not knocked out of your child’s mouth but has moved, “your child still should be seen right away,” says Peter Duda, DMD, associate professor at Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, and division director of Oral Diagnosis and Treatment Planning for Emergency and Urgent Care. “Your dentist will need to evaluate, and the tooth may need to be splinted to stabilize it so that it can heal.”
CHIPPED OR CRACKED TOOTH
Call your dentist ASAP. Your dentist can evaluate how soon you should be seen, which depends on the type and level of the fracture. For example, a fracture into the pulp may expose nerve endings and must be seen immediately, whereas a minor chip in the enamel can be seen within the week, says Duda. A fractured tooth may or may not be able to be repaired, depending on the severity of the damage.
TOOTHACHE
Kids can have toothaches for several reasons, including a cavity that may be sensitive to hot and cold or an abscess, a swelling on the gums due to a bacterial infection. Your child should be seen ASAP, says Ramos. They likely will need antibiotics and other treatments, such as a filling or root canal. In the meantime, if your child is old enough to spit, have them rinse with warm salt water, and give the child an age-appropriate dose of acetaminophen for pain.
MOUTH SORES
Kids may get canker sores, a white ulcer inside the mouth, due to stress or a minor mouth injury, such as accidentally biting the inside of the cheek. Kids also may get them right before or after a virus, says Ramos. They’re not contagious, but it can hurt if your child keeps touching it. Mostly, they go away on their own, but call your dentist for evaluation, especially if it’s the first time your child has one. In the meantime, an over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, can help.
LOOSE OR POKING WIRES OR BRACKETS ON BRACES
Broken orthodontic appliances typically aren’t an emergency, but they can be uncomfortable. Call your dentist for an appointment, but if a wire is poking your child, use a nail clipper to cut the end off because it will need to be replaced anyhow, says Ramos. If that’s not possible, place a pea-sized ball of dental wax on the end of the wire until your child can be seen.
—Arricca Elin SanSone is a New York-based health and lifestyle writer.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: FLORAL DESIGNER KATHY ANGELINOVICH AND EMPLOYEE DAVID MCDOUGAL AT VASEFUL; FROM LEFT: FRANCES DE CICCO IS LEARNING ESSENTIAL SKILLS FOR INDEPENDENCE FROM RUTGERS SCHOOL OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS STUDENTS SAMANTHA LOBO, STEPHANIE FIOREY AND MADDISON PALMER; JESSICA NOFER, RIGHT, AND DYLAN DADDAZIO MAKE BAGS FOR HOMEMADE DOG TREATS AT PRIDE PAWS; GEORGE IS HARD AT WORK AT KINDNESS CAFE ON MAIN.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: VICTORIA WILL / AARON DALLMAN OF RUTGERS HEALTH / PRIDE PAWS / KINDNESS CAFE
HELP WANTED
IHave a neurodiverse teen? Here’s how they can become part of the workforce in New Jersey
f you have a child with autism, you know there are so many programs and services for kids in New Jersey. But what happens when children with disabilities grow up to become adults?
According to Drexel University, employment rates for those with autism are the lowest among all disabilities and only 58 percent of people in their 20s with autism have ever worked a job. Kids with autism grow up to be adults with autism, so it’s a topic parents should be concerned about even while their children are still young.
STARTING STRONG
Eileen Shaklee, the popular NJ-based “Autism With a Side of Fries” blogger, sought a job for her son on her own. George, age 20, who has autism, works at the Kindness Café on Main in Manasquan. “His job is to open the joint,” she says. “He helps stock all the coffee and tea urns and starts the baking for the day. He gets the tables and chairs sorted and straightened up; restocks the cups, lids, sugars, milk and creamer; and then when it’s open for customers, he’s a runner for orders.”
If a parent hears about a place like Kindness Café, Shaklee suggests getting in touch with them to ask if they’re hiring. She also suggests reaching out to transition coordinators at your local school district. “Speak to them about getting job coaching for your kids,” she suggests.
Aaron Dallman, PhD, assistant professor at Rutgers University and founder of Nexus, a program aimed at fostering self-sufficiency for individuals with autism in the Newark area, says parents should start to think about their child’s transition to adulthood once their child enters adolescence by providing them opportunities to help around the house. “Even simple tasks like helping wash the dishes, making their own bed, helping fold their own laundry or vacuuming are essential skills that might one day help your child find employment.”
SKILL DEVELOPMENT
Community Options, headquartered in Princeton, has programs that help individuals with disabilities achieve their career goals. “We assist people with disabilities to develop a customized work plan and prepare them for individual placement in competitive employment,” says managing director Dina Casalaspro. “Employment specialists and job coaches guide participants through a training program based on their individual work plans, helping them to acquire all the necessary skills for a job of their choice.” Individuals learn skills such as marketing, maintenance, filing, data entry, money management, scheduling, administrative duties, computer skills and customer service.
Pride Paws in Medford is a job training program for adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities ages 18 to 29 started by parents and special education teachers who didn’t know what their kids would do once they aged out of school. They started baking homemade dog biscuits and the enterprise grew into the retail store Pride Paws. “We train them on register skills, customer service, baking
NJ-based businesses that support neurodiverse individuals:
• THREE MEADOWS FARM Bedminster threemeadowsfarmnj.com
• KINDNESS CAFÉ ON MAIN Manasquan kindnesscafeonmain.com
• CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CAFÉ Lake Como circleoffriendsnj.org
homemade dog treats, sewing, cutting, and much more,” says manager Erica Richman. Program participants have gone on to get jobs at ShopRite, Hallmark, Murphy’s Market, Wegmans and Evergreen Dairy Bar. Richman is always accepting new participants, and applicants can be put on a wait list if necessary.
AN INCLUSIVE WORKFORCE
Thanks to increased autism awareness, opportunities for adults with disabilities in NJ are increasing. Shaklee says it’s important for parents to really understand their kid’s role. “There’s a good chance some of them might be skills you can work on at home such as cleaning, sorting and organizing.”
At Nexus, Dr. Dallman says members of the program have many different abilities and that there is no “perfect” applicant they are looking for. “Members of Nexus have learned how to cook meals, fold laundry, vacuum, iron clothes, organize cabinets, write resumes, complete interviews and more,” he says.
Community Options also has entrepreneurial businesses, such as the Daily Plan It, Vaseful and Presents of Mind that provide individuals with disabilities an opportunity to work in a real business setting alongside trained professionals. “People with disabilities bring a wealth of skills, perspectives and experiences to the workplace, making them excellent employees,” says Casalaspro.
For Dr. Dallman, the mission is clear. “I want business owners to know that New Jersey has an amazing workforce of autistic adolescents and young adults who want to contribute to our communities,” he says. “I encourage every employer to openly advertise and encourage people with disabilities to apply for positions. Make your business a place where everyone in our community can thrive, and I am confident your business will in turn succeed.”
—Ronnie Koenig is a freelance writer and mother of a neurodivergent teen. She lives in Princeton.
Here are the 773 best doctors, dentists and specialists in NJ, chosen by you!
When you’re looking for the best doctor, dentist or specialist for your child, who do you trust for a recommendation? If you answered another parent, you’re not alone. That’s what inspired us to ask parents to tell us which doctors offer the best and most compassionate care. The result is a comprehensive list of exceptional pediatric healthcare professionals in New Jersey—picked by you!
We started New Jersey’s Favorite Kids’ Docs 16 years ago with the hope that parents like you would serve as trusted advisors on where to seek the best medical care for our children. There’s no way to buy a spot on this list and that’s what makes it unique and trustworthy. In an age where worrying about our kids’ mental and physical health weighs heavily on us all, finding exceptional and experienced medical care for our families matters more than ever. This list wouldn’t exist without parents like you. Thanks for taking the time to share your nominations with us.
SUMMER FUN STARTS AT THE Y!
Choose from 100+ day camp options tailored to every age and interest, from traditional outdoor fun to hands-on STEM exploration. With 7 convenient locations, your perfect camp experience is just around the corner!
At the Y, we’re proud to offer a safe, engaging, and unforgettable camp experience as the nation’s largest nonprofit childcare provider. Financial assistance is available to ensure every child can join the adventure.
Registration opens in January! Visit gscymca.org/camp for more details.
Pediatricians Specialists
584
The Details
Healthcare professionals are listed alphabetically by area of expertise— pediatricians and specialists, followed by dental professionals. The list doesn’t imply endorsement by New Jersey Family; it’s a parent-toparent referral list only.
A name in boldface indicates the physician has purchased an advertising profile on the page number that follows.
Nominations on njfamily.com were accepted between June 2023 and May 2024.
ALLERGY & IMMUNOLOGY
Meera Khedkar, MD • Livingston
Archana Mehta, MD • Parsippany
Jeffrey Weiss, MD • Paramus, Riverdale, p. 65
AUDIOLOGY
Kimberly Auerbach, MS, CCC-A • Hackensack
Alexandra Camacho-Luna, ScD, CCC-A • Hackensack
Stephanie Garcia, AuD, CCC-A • Hackensack
CHIROPRACTIC
Olga Alvarez, DC, CSCP • Hoboken
Laura Brayton, DC, CACCP, CSCP • Hoboken
Christine Garvey, DC • Clinton
Brett Hartman, DC • Budd Lake, Lake Hopatcong
Tami Hartman, DC • Budd Lake, Lake Hopatcong
Jeffrey Larkin, DC • Warren
Exceptional pediatric healthcare professionals recommended by New Jersey parents
Andrea J. Sciarrillo, DC, CCSP, CSCS • Cranford, p. 64
Jane Chiaramonte, COTA/L, AC, CPRCS • Fairfield, Sparta, p. 52
Melissa McCabe, COTA/L • Lafayette, Totowa, p. 60
ONCOLOGY: PEDIATRIC
Archana Sharma, DO • New Brunswick
Bruce N. Terrin, MD • Hackensack
OPTHALMOLOGY: PEDIATRIC
Jay Bernstein, MD • Cedar Knolls
J. Mark Engel, MD • East Brunswick
Kathryn Kline, MD • Morristown
Mayumi Mori, MD • Westfield
Sepideh T. Rousta, MD • Bridgewater, East Brunswick
Nancy Sun, MD • Bridgewater, East Brunswick
OPTOMETRY
Maria I. Cardona, OD • Maplewood
Nidhi Rana, OD • East Brunswick
Michael J. Siegel, OD • Budd Lake
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY
Barbara Minkowitz, MD • Morristown
Andrew A. Willis, MD • Cedar Knolls
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY: HAND
Andrew McGinniss, MD • Clifton, Morristown, NYC, Wayne, p. 57
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY: PEDIATRIC
Tamir Bloom, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Alexandra D’Agostini, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Samara Friedman, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Avrum Joffe, MD • Morristown, Ridgewood, p. 55
David Lin, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Mark Rieger, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, 54
Sarah Stelma, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Joshua Strassberg, MD • Cedar Knolls,
Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY: SPINE
M. Darryl Antonacci, MD • Lawrenceville
Randal R. Betz, MD • Lawrenceville
Laury A. Cuddihy, MD • Lawrenceville
Arash Emami, MD • Clifton, Morristown, NYC, Wayne, p. 57
Ki Soo Hwang, MD • Clifton, Morristown, NYC, Wayne, p. 57
Jason E. Lowenstein, MD • Morristown, NYC, p. 51
Andrew McGinniss, MD • Clifton, Morristown, NYC, Wayne, p. 57
Nikhil Sahai, MD • Clifton, Morristown, NYC, Wayne, p. 57
Kumar Sinha, MD • Clifton, Morristown, NYC, Wayne, p. 57
ORTHOPEDICS: PEDIATRIC
Tamir Bloom, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Alexandra D’Agostini, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Samara Friedman, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Paul Haynes, MD • Ocean Twp.
Avrum Joffe, MD • Morristown, Ridgewood, p. 55
David Lin, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Mark Rieger, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Mark Solomon, DPM • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Sarah Stelma, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
Joshua Strassberg, MD • Cedar Knolls, Springfield, Wayne, p. 54
OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE
Mark M. Morris, DO • Springfield
OTOLARYNGOLOGY
Mena Abrahim, DO • Bridgewater
Jay Agarwal, MD • Hackensack
Conor Blanco, DO • Berkeley Heights, Florham Park, Westfield
Michael Chee, MD • Hackensack
Renato J. Giacchi, MD • Morristown, p. 58
Steven Gold, MD • Hackensack
Adrianna Hekiert, MD • Bridgewater
Sara B. Immerman, MD • Morristown, p. 58
Seth J. Kanowitz, MD, FACS • Morristown, p. 58
Eric Q. Lee, MD, FACS • Morristown, p. 58
Joel W. Levitt, MD • West Orange
Steven Sabin, MD • East Brunswick
Damian W. Sorvino, MD • Morristown, p. 58
PEDIATRICS
Julie Aliaga, MD • Secaucus, Teaneck
Vineetha Alias, DO • Millburn
Parvin Alizadeh, MD • Columbus, Hamilton
Christopher Amato, DO, FAAP • Gibbsboro, Sewell, p. 58
Daniel Anderson, MD • Clifton
Jennifer Azer, MD • East Brunswick
Marc Backal, MD • Sewell
Kandy Bahadur, MD • Succasunna, p. 61
Arlene Balubayan, MD • Raritan
Susan Barasch, MD • Warren
Maureen Baxley, MD • Florham Park
Leena Benoy, MD • Hillsborough
Sari Bentsianov, MD • New Brunswick
Bobak Bidabadi, MD • Kendall Park
Dana Biermann-Flynn, DO • Elmer, Wenonah
Jeffrey D. Blackman, MD • Marlton
Michael A. Blair, MD • Columbus, Hamilton
Marilynn D. Boim, MD • Columbus, Hamilton
Larnie J. Booker, MD • East Brunswick
Sonya Boor, MD • Hamilton Square
Suzanne Botrous, MD • East Orange
Ricky Braff, MD • Clinton
Rachel Brauner, DO • Hillsborough
Brian Brett, MD • Budd Lake
Lauren Brucia, MD • Clifton, Montclair
Basil Bruno, MD • Rochelle Park
Marta L. Buchbinder, MD • Columbus, Hamilton
David Burgess, MD • Mays Landing
Maria Caceres, MD • North Bergen
Bonney Cai-Luo, MD • Livingston
Mark Camiolo, DO • Millburn
Christian Canzoniero, MD, FAAP • Sparta, p. 65
Brittany M. Carey, DO • Holmdel
Jennifer Carite, MD • Medford
Melissa Castillo, MD • Brick
Neil Cederbaum, MD • East Brunswick
Dana Chait-Kessler, MD • Denville
Melissa Chase, DO • Hammonton
Emily Chen, MD, FAAP • Chatham, p. 56
Kathleen Chin, MD • New Providence
Yie-Hsien Chu, MD • Oakland
Marisa Ciufalo, MD • Randolph
Pierre Coant, MD • Deptford
Lori A. Colyer-Aversa, MD • Bloomfield, p. 62
WIC
Women, Infants & Children
WIC is a Supplemental Nutrition and Breastfeeding Program administered by the USDA for New Jersey residents who meet the income guidelines. Services include nutrition, health and breastfeeding education, referrals to other community resources and electronic food benefits for income-eligible pregnant women, breastfeeding and postpartum women (six months after delivery), infants and children up to 5 years old. Eligibility is determined during pre-screening.
Hours of Operation
Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with some Wednesday evenings until 6:30 p.m. For appointments, call 908-994-5141.
Now open in the Medical Arts Building 200 Williamson St., Suite 150 Elizabeth, NJ 07202 rwjbh.org/trinitaswic
Se habla Español
NJ WIC Participant Portal
Apply for WIC online at: wic.nj.gov/participantportal/
Prescreening takes about 15 minutes. A sta member will contact you to set up an appointment.
Wanda Coss, MD • Bordentown, Medford
Deborah A. Coy, MD • West Orange, p. 62
Kathleen Cuddihy, MD • New Providence
Tokunbo Dada, MD • Irvington
Robert DeCristofano, MD • Denville
Joseph J. DelGiorno, MD • Blackwood
Ellen DelMoro, MD • Sewell
Julio Diaz, MD • Millburn
Laura M. Diaz, MD • Fanwood, Warren
Richard Dicker, MD • Denville
Madeline M. DiMurro, DO, FAAP • Westfield, p. 64
Suzanne DiTuri, MD • Denville
Eric Dorn, MD • Sewell
John Douvris, MD • Flemington
Jessica Eckert, DO • Morristown
Devin Eckstein, DO • Clark, Summit
Jeffrey Eng, MD • Millburn
Emily Eyerkuss, DO • Hazlet
Agnes Fagan, APN • Sewell
Jaclyn Fallon, DO • Westwood
Kira Feldman, MD • Barnegat
Alejandro Flores, MD • Hackensack
Charles Flores, MD • Hamilton
Sean A. Flynn, MD • Bloomfield
Michael Foreman, MD • Delran
Joseph Fritzky, MD • Randolph
Jill Garripoli Pedalino, DO • Nutley
Maria Gatoulis, MD • New Providence
John D. Giardino, Jr., MD • Moorestown
Bonita Gillard, MD • Fanwood
Cory Golloub, MD • Montville
Tomasz Gruczynski, MD • Wayne
Allison Gurey Wasserstein, MD • Millburn
Dorina Halifman, MD • Glen Rock
Julie Halvorsen, DO • Lawrenceville
Adam Handler, MD • Parsippany
Dina Hanna, MD • North Brunswick, p. 61
Angela Harrell, MD • Delran
Michelle Heller-Barlekamp, DO • Succasunna, p. 61
Matthew Howe, MD • East Windsor
Walter J. Jacques, MD • Columbus, Hamilton
Fatima Jaffery, MD • Newark
Robert Jawetz, MD • Clifton
Tamika Jones, MD • Wenonah
Daniel Kahn, MD • Parsippany
Andrea Katz, MD • Millburn, Warren
Kysemena Kedzierska, MD • Hackettstown
Ahmed Khattab, MD • New Brunswick
Maria Batraki Kim, DO • North Brunswick, p. 61
Angela Knestaut, DO • Mullica Hill, Swedesboro, West Deptford
Howard Kornfeld, MD • New Providence
Donna Koward, MD • Fanwood
Sarah Kramer, MD • Fanwood
Jody Kroon, MD • Clinton
Theresa LaFranco, MD • Newton, p. 61
Christina Lampone, MD • Sewell
Ilene Laufer, MD • Garfield
Carmen LeBron, MD • Union
Diana (Chow) Lee, DO, FAAP • Gibbsboro, Sewell, p. 58
Naomi Sutton, MA, CCC-SLP, CFS • Fairfield, Sparta, p. 52
Nicole Tharp, MA, CCC-SLP • Bayville
Amanda Tretiak, MS, CCC-SLP • Florham Park
Stephanie Weisholtz, MS, CCC • Westfield
Amelia Weiss, MS, CCC-SLP • West Caldwell
Amy Zembriski, MS, CCC-SLP • Fair Lawn
SPINAL CORD INJURY MEDICINE
Michele Fantasia, MD • New Brunswick
SPORTS MEDICINE
Andrew A. Willis, MD • Cedar Knolls
SURGERY: PEDIATRIC
Yi-Horng Lee, MD • Teaneck
NEW JERSEY PEDIATRIC
The multidisciplinary team at NJ Pediatric Neuroscience Institute (NJPNI) takes a collaborative approach to provide personalized, compassionate care to every child. NJPNI offers exceptional pediatric care through both cutting-edge medical expertise as well as a highly trained staff that treats each and every family with warmth, understanding and respect.
Improving Patients’ Quality of Life
“Watching children overcome challenges and grow stronger is the most fulfilling part of my job,” says Dr. Jeffrey Kornitzer, director of pediatric neurology at NJPNI. “Helping children regain their health and seeing their quality of life improve reminds me daily why I chose pediatric neurology as my specialty.”
The providers utilize the latest neurodiagnostic testing to diagnose and treat pediatric neurological conditions. They offer innovative therapies for epilepsy, neuromuscular disorders and neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD and autism. The NJPNI team also offers telemedicine to make consultations more accessible and convenient for families.
Caring for the Whole Child
“We understand that pediatric neurology can be a stressful experience for families, so we go out of our way to create a welcoming, calm environment,” says Dr. Kornitzer, a father of four. “We strive to make every family feel comfortable and well-informed by fostering open communication.”
Board certified in pediatric neurology, Dr. Kornitzer serves as an assistant professor at Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School. He has written more than a dozen peer-reviewed articles on child neurology in prestigious journals.
“At NJPNI, we’re not just treating a condition—we’re caring for the whole child,” he says. “Our goal is to give every child the opportunity to thrive.”
The neurosurgery division of the New Jersey Pediatric Neuroscience Institute (NJPNI) provides comprehensive, patient-centered care for both pediatric and adult patients and their families. The practice has welcomed more than six new board-certified pediatric neurosurgeons and neurologists, and recently opened a new office in Hamilton to better serve children and families.
Family-Centered Treatment
Board-certified pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Catherine Mazzola and her team provide patients with exceptional and individualized treatment for conditions including cerebral palsy, Chiari malformation, epilepsy, hydrocephalus, brain tumors and spina bifida, as well as ADHD, autism, headaches and tics. “Our practice is very family-centered, and we make the evaluation and treatment process as stress-free as possible,” Dr. Mazzola says. The doctors use the most advanced cutting-edge technologies to provide patients with the best possible treatment and outcomes. They collaborate with an extensive network of neurologists, therapists, psychologists and orthotists to develop an individualized care plan for each patient.
Comprehensive and Collaborative Care
The doctors make themselves available at night and on weekends for emergency office visits and consultations, and they participate in many insurance plans. With the help of a compassionate team of nurse practitioners, they provide an array of surgical as well as minimally-invasive therapeutic options to improve each child’s health and quality of life.
“We understand the stress involved in caring for a sick child, and ensure each child receives the necessary therapies and interventions,” says Dr. Mazzola, the first pediatric neurosurgeon in New Jersey to launch multidisciplinary programs in the areas of spasticity, cerebral palsy, craniofacial disorders and pediatric brain tumors.
Catherine A. Mazzola, MD, FAANS
John Collins, MD, FAANS
Tatiana Sikorskyj, APN, RNFA
Yvelisse Ng, NP-C
Hackensack, Hazlet, Jersey City, Morristown, Rockaway 973-326-9000
njpni.com
NEW JERSEY PEDIATRIC NEUROSCIENCE INSTITUTE
Left to right: Tatiana Sikorskyj, APN, RNFA, John Collins, MD, FAANS, Catherine A. Mazzola, MD, FAANS, Adam Ammar, MD, Yvelisse Ng, NP-C
ADVANCED PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATES
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
At Advanced Psychiatric Associates, boardcertified child and adolescent psychiatrist
Dr. Wilbert Yeung and licensed psychologist
Dr. Amanda Carlin provide psychiatric evaluations, psychotherapy and psychopharmacology services in a relaxed, comfortable private office. The doctors are experienced in treating children, teens, adults and families for anxiety, OCD, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, behavioral issues and eating disorders.
Making Patient Comfort a Priority
“Parents are often hesitant about taking their child to a psychiatrist, so we strive to make patients comfortable, share our expertise and knowledge and empower them to make the best decisions for their family,” Dr. Yeung says. “We help patients and parents feel like educated consumers and ease any fears they may have about psychiatric treatment.”
“It’s important that patients feel supported, feel part of the process and learn life skills they can always carry with them,” Dr. Carlin says. Healing begins with an evaluation and discussion of available treatments, including therapy and medication options. The doctors partner with
families, schools and other providers to advocate for patients on their road to recovery.
Extensive Training and Deep Expertise
Dr. Yeung attended Harvard University and RutgersRWJ Medical School before completing his residency and fellowship at the Alpert Medical School of Brown University. He is a past president of the New Jersey Council of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (NJCCAP).
A certified provider of family-based treatment for eating and feeding disorders, Dr. Carlin earned her PhD in clinical psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Prior to entering private practice, Dr. Carlin supervised trainees at the Adolescent Eating Disorder Program at Overlook Medical Center.
Wilbert Yeung, MD
Amanda Carlin, PhD
211 Essex St., Ste. 204, Hackensack 256 Columbia Tpke., North Tower, Ste. 209, Florham Park 65 Harristown Rd., Heritage Plaza II, Ste. 101, Glen Rock 201-487-1240 advancedpsychiatricassociates.com
Left to right: Wilbert Yeung, MD; Ethan Isidro, MD; Amanda Carlin, PhD; Christopher Scovell, DO
Dr. Jason Lowenstein is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon practicing in both New Jersey and New York City. He serves as medical director and chief of scoliosis and spinal deformity at Morristown Medical Center, and is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at NYU Langone Health. He’s been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor; voted Top Doctor by New York Magazine and NJ Monthly Magazine, and Jersey’s Best Magazine; honored by Inside Jersey Magazine as a Top Doctor, Top Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, and Top Doctor for Children’s Health, and was named one of NJ’s Favorite Kids’ Docs by New Jersey Family magazine.
Focused on Cutting-Edge, Minimally-Invasive Care
He specializes in the treatment of scoliosis, kyphosis and spondylolisthesis, and revision spine surgery for the treatment of failed back syndrome or previous spinal deformity surgeries that require further surgical intervention. He frequently utilizes vertebral body tethering (VBT) for anterior scoliosis correction when treating patients with scoliosis as a flexible alternative to traditional fusion surgery and was the first surgeon in NJ to utilize the
first FDA-approved tether instrumentation system from Zimmer Biomet.
Finding the Right Treatment Plan
When managing patients with scoliosis, Dr. Lowenstein believes in pursuing all nonsurgical options first, such as brace treatment or the Schroth Method of physical therapy.
“When surgery’s necessary, I often utilize minimally invasive techniques to make the treatment process easier and reduce recovery time,” he says.
Dr. Lowenstein studied neuroscience and graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania. He earned his medical degree at the University of Pittsburgh and performed his orthopedic surgery residency at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center. He completed a fellowship in adult and pediatric spine and scoliosis surgery at Emory University Hospital.
Jason E. Lowenstein, MD
160 E. Hanover Ave., Ste. 201, Morristown • 973-538-0900
303 2nd Ave., #19, New York • 212-228-7700 jasonlowensteinmd.com theadvancedspinecenter.com
An integrative and caring pediatric practice, Brave Wings Therapy specializes in speech, occupational and feeding therapy and provides autism services to support the unique needs of infants, toddlers and children of all ages and abilities.
Individualized Attention to Treat the Whole Child
Brave Wings Therapy accepts all major insurance plans. The creative team of therapists puts the “fun” in functional and uses evidence-based, child-friendly approaches to target developmental skills. In addition to being certified in renowned therapeutic treatment methods, the Brave Wings team is patient, nurturing and provides a loving learning environment.
The therapists take a holistic approach to create individualized treatment plans that help each child achieve their goals. They emphasize treating the whole child while educating families on ways to implement strategies at home.
“Our practice prioritizes improving quality of life for infants, toddlers, children and families,” says co-founder Dr. Jenn Moore. “We help clients with important skills
such as strengthening their abilities to eat, communicate and navigate the world around them.”
Keeping Therapy Fun
The therapists strive to be positive, friendly and compassionate in every interaction to ensure that each child feels safe and comfortable while in their care. The practice’s warm and inviting clinics feature therapy rooms equipped with toys, games and crafts, while the sensory gyms feature therapeutic swings and slides, custom-built rock walls and oversized climbing structures and crash pads.
“We strive to provide our clients with the best course of treatment possible in a fun and loving way,” says co-owner Naomi Sutton. “The greatest fulfillment we get is when we see our clients’ faces light up after they achieve their goals.” Brave Wings
Adouble board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in treating children, adolescents and adults, Dr. Eileen A. Zhivago is the founder of Cohesive Health and Wellness.
Her practice is a nurturing space where a compassionate team of psychiatric professionals is committed to fostering a safe, welcoming environment for individuals, families and couples. She focuses on understanding each patient’s distinct needs and guiding them through life’s challenges to achieve a fulfilling life.
Comprehensive, Modern Approach to Treatment
“Our philosophy isn’t ‘one size fits all.’ We offer personalized and innovative care through a variety of therapeutic modalities,” Dr. Zhivago says. “We empower patients and their families to reclaim their lives, whether they’re undergoing lifestyle changes or facing medical difficulties.”
Dr. Zhivago and her team adopt a holistic perspective to psychiatric care, skillfully integrating modern treatment techniques with a human-centered approach—and they always consider the patient’s unique experiences.
“We highlight the connection of emotions, thoughts,
physical sensations and life narratives to help patients find balance and meaning,” she says.
Compassionate, Stigma-Free Care
At Cohesive Health and Wellness, patients are encouraged to discover new skills, techniques and perspectives that support personal growth, self-discovery and awareness. The practice focuses on enhancing individual strengths and resilience while building authentic, stigma-free relationships.
“Our combination of experience and empathetic care allows us to support patients in navigating their challenges and overcoming daily hurdles,” Dr. Zhivago says. “Our team is committed to walking alongside each patient and their family on their journey to wellness—and offering patience, understanding and unwavering support.”
Eileen A. Zhivago, MD, FAPA
215 North Ave. W., Westfield 70 W. Allendale Ave., Ste. D, Allendale 908-308-4500
cohesivehealthandwellness.com
Left to right: Maureen Goodman, APN, Eileen A. Zhivago, MD, FAPA, Ashley Blake Strongwater, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psychiatry, Betty Lau, MD
Pediatric Orthopedics
For 30 years, The Pediatric Orthopedic Center has provided top-quality care for orthopedic issues involving bones, joints, and muscles. The practice treats children and adolescents with sports injuries, fractures, hip dysplasia, clubfoot and scoliosis using minimally invasive and non-surgical approaches.
“We treat each child as our own, and provide a safe return to normal activities as quickly as possible,” says Dr. Mark Rieger, founding partner and first division chief of pediatric orthopedics at Morristown Medical Center, and the only physician in the state approved on Ponseti’s website for treating clubfoot.
State-of-the-Art Technology
Nominated as “Favorite Kids’ Docs” and NJ Monthly
“Top Doctors” for many years, our doctors treat patients at Goryeb Children’s Hospital, St. Clare’s, Saint Barnabas, Overlook Medical Centers, NYU Hassenfeld, and Short Hills Surgical Center. Dr. Rieger was recently honored as “Healthcare Hero Physician of the Year” by NJ Biz
The practice uses innovative, non-operative, minimally invasive, and arthroscopic surgical techniques for rapid diagnosis and treatment. TPOC is the first in the state
with low-dose radiation EOSedge Imaging, offering just 4 percent of the radiation of traditional x-rays. Other cuttingedge technologies include bioabsorbable implants to eliminate multiple surgeries, BEAR™ for ACL repair, and FIREFLY™ to maximize safety in spinal surgery.
Pioneers in Orthopedic Care
The practice includes eight pediatric orthopedists, a pediatric foot and ankle specialist, and a nationally certified orthopedic physician assistant. “We offer the resources of a world-class care center to our patients locally, and the size of our group has enabled us to become pioneers in the field of pediatric orthopedics,” he says.
Mark Rieger, MD; David Lin, MD
Joshua Strassberg, MD; Samara Friedman, MD
Tamir Bloom, MD; Sarah Stelma, MD
Alexandra D’Agostini, MD; Mark Solomon, DPM
Jaime Morley, PA-C
218 Ridgedale Ave., Ste. 101, Cedar Knolls 609 Morris Ave., 2nd Fl., Springfield 246 Hamburg Tpke., Ste. 304, Wayne 973-538-7700 • pediatricorthopedics.com
Left to right: Jaime Morley, PA-C, Joshua Strassberg, MD, David Lin, MD, Mark Rieger, MD, Tamir Bloom, MD, Alexandra D’Agostini, MD, Mark Solomon, DPM, Samara Friedman, MD, Sarah Stelma, MD
Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
At Preferred Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, board-certified and fellowship-trained pediatric orthopedic surgeons Drs. Avrum Joffe, Hakan Pehlivan and Ellen Dean, along with physician assistants Jill McGovern, Jessica Perkins and Nicole Bottino, treat children’s injuries and deformities.
The practice includes upper extremity surgeon Dr. Nancy Moontasri and PA Kayla McGovern, and also recently welcomed Dr. Jessica Bernstein, who has a special interest in foot and ankle pathology.
Providing the Best Possible Outcomes
Dr. Joffe and his team treat fractures, sports injuries and congenital musculoskeletal deformities using the most advanced pediatric orthopedic surgical techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes. A Wyckoff native, Dr. Joffe has been serving his hometown community for over a decade.
“We ensure that the specialized needs of each patient are met, and we’re dedicated to helping kids maximize their potential,” he says.
Helping Kids Get Back to Being Kids
The providers use modern technology and opt for the
most conservative and least invasive treatments whenever possible in their compassionate, family-friendly practice.
Drs. Joffe and Pehlivan completed pediatric orthopedic surgery fellowships at the Rady Children’s Hospital of San Diego, while Dr. Dean was trained at duPont Children’s Hospital and Dr. Bernstein at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.
The Ridgewood practice is affiliated with Hackensack University Medical Center, Vanguard Surgical Center and The Valley Hospital, where Dr. Joffe serves as associate director of orthopedics. The Morristown practice serves Chilton, Overlook Medical Center and Morristown Medical Center, where Dr. Dean is the associate program director.
“We offer the latest and greatest treatments so kids can get back to being kids,” says Dr. Joffe, a father of three.
Avrum Joffe, MD
Jill McGovern, MMS, PA
106 Prospect St., 3rd Fl., Ridgewood 201-639-2656
25 Lindsley Dr., Morristown 973-310-2603
preferredpediatricorthopedicsurgery.com
Left to right: Jessica Bernstein, MD, Jill McGovern, MMS, PA, Avrum Joffe, MD, Jessica Perkins, PA, Hakan Pehlivan, MD
Pediatrics
Founded by Dr. Jennifer Shaw, Touchpoint Pediatrics in Chatham specializes in comprehensive, family-centered primary care and has been providing a medical home for families since 2002.
A Patient-Centered Medical Home
Healthcare consumer and peer resources have recognized Touchpoint as one of NJ’s top pediatric practices. The practice has been reaccredited again by the NCQA for recognition as a patient-centered medical home—including a focus on team-based, coordinated care. “We treat parents as partners in their child’s healthcare team,” Dr. Shaw says.
A board-certified, fellowship-trained developmental and behavioral pediatric specialist, Dr. Shaw has extensive experience managing ADHD, autism and learning disorders. Recognized as a New Jersey Family “Favorite Kids’ Doc” since the program’s inception, the practice’s doctors are on staff at Morristown, Overlook and St. Barnabas medical centers.
Meeting Children’s Medical and Non-Medical Needs
Many physicians entrust the care of their children to
Dr. Shaw and her colleagues, who coordinate care with specialists and follow up with patients. The office’s friendly, caring front desk staff makes families feel at home. The practice also provides telemedicine appointments. The pediatricians have special expertise in asthma, allergies, prematurity, genetic disorders, digestive and nutritional issues, and sports medicine and collaborate to guide families toward healthy habits.
Touchpoint is actively seeking experienced physicians to expand their practice. “We’re so appreciative of our patient following and their loyalty to our practice,” Dr. Shaw says. “We take our obligation to our existing patients very seriously.”
Jennifer Shaw-Brachfeld, MD, FAAP
Valerie Tom, MD, FAAP
Emily Chen, MD, FAAP
Sharon Spiteri, MD, MPH, FAAP
Dyana Picache, DO, FAAP
17 Watchung Ave., Ste. 201, Chatham 973-665-0900
touchpointpediatrics.com
Left to right: Emily Chen, MD, Sharon Spiteri, MD, Jennifer Shaw-Brachfeld, MD, Valerie Tom, MD, Dyana Picache, DO
Scoliosis, Spine Surgery & Hand Surgery
The team of dedicated physicians, surgeons and health professionals at University Spine Center make it their “mission to alleviate pain, improve function and enhance quality of life for patients suffering from spine disorders,” says Dr. Arash Emami, the practice founder.
Improving Patients’ Quality of Life
Dr. Emami, Dr. Ki Soo Hwang, Dr. Kumar Sinha and Dr. Nikhil Sahai are fellowship-trained in spine surgery and board-certified in orthopedic surgery. Dr. Andrew McGinniss’ areas of interest include hand and upper extremity disorders and entrapments including carpal and cubital tunnel syndromes. “Our goal is to make kids comfortable by explaining things in a way they can understand, and for them to know that their providers are interested in their care,” he says.
Cutting-Edge Treatments
Among the first surgeons in the state to introduce minimally-invasive spinal surgery, Dr. Emami is dedicated to revolutionizing spinal treatments with groundbreaking techniques and research. His novel research and original
publications on the safety of outpatient spinal surgeries have earned him widespread recognition. Dr. Emami has also trained and mentored hundreds of orthopedic surgeons, and shared his knowledge and novel surgical techniques through hundreds of presentations at scientific meetings worldwide. This group is serious about expanding knowledge in their specialties. The surgeons conduct clinical research and teach residents at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, where Dr. Emami is chairman of the Orthopedics Department and Chief of Spine Surgery. He is also an associate professor of Orthopedics at Seton Hall University. “Once we relieve the pain and help someone recover, life can begin again.”
Arash Emami, MD; Andrew McGinniss, MD
Kumar Sinha, MD; Ki Soo Hwang, MD Nikhil Sahai, MD
504 Valley Rd., Ste. 203, Wayne 95 Madison Ave., Ste. 302, Morristown 915 Clifton Ave., Ste. 203, Clifton 740 Broadway, Ste. 605, New York, NY 973-686-0700
universityspinecenter.com
Left to right: Andrew McGinniss, MD, Arash Emami, MD, Ki Soo Hwang, MD, Kumar Sinha, MD
ADVOCARE ENT SPECIALISTS OF MORRISTOWN
Otolaryngology
Advocare Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists of Morristown has provided families with a full spectrum of otolaryngological care for 38 years.
Drs. Sorvino, Kanowitz, Giacchi, Immerman and Lee are highly trained and experienced in advanced specialty head and neck surgery for adult and pediatric patients. Dedicated to treating each patient with compassionate, customized care, the physicians diagnose and treat all pediatric ENT disorders including tonsil and adenoid removal, ear and sinus infections and allergies. The practice uses pediatric instruments and cutting-edge technologies to make treatment as comfortable as possible for young patients. “We understand
the anxiety parents feel when bringing their child to see us, so we take care of patients as if they were our own children,” Dr. Kanowitz says. The practice is affiliated with Goryeb Children’s Hospital, Morristown Medical Center and Denville Surgery Center, enabling the physicians to perform state-of-the-art surgeries right within the community.
Damian W. Sorvino, MD
Renato J. Giacchi, MD
Seth J. Kanowitz, MD, FACS
Sara B. Immerman, MD
Eric Q. Lee, MD, FACS 95 Madison Ave., Ste. 105, Morristown 973-644-0808 • advocaremorristownent.com
ADVOCARE MILESTONE PEDIATRICS
The board-certified pediatricians and nurse practitioners at Advocare Milestone Pediatrics genuinely care about kids’ health and well-being.
The Drs. Amato and their dedicated team partner with families to make informed decisions about their children’s health. The practice’s full range of pediatric services helps keep kids healthy and thriving.
“We believe every child deserves the best start in life, so we provide compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs,” Dr. Amato says. The practice aims to build strong relationships with kids so they know they can trust their doctor, and the office’s warm and friendly environment
ensures that families always feel at ease. As parents themselves, the doctors understand the challenges of everyday life and offer evening hours until 9 pm Monday to Thursday, as well as same-day and Saturday sick visits. “Along with treating illnesses, we still find the time to laugh and connect with families as we share memorable stories on child rearing—the good, the bad, and the unique,” he says.
Christopher Amato,
advocaremilestonepeds.com
ADVOCARE MORRISTOWN PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES
Established in 1972, Advocare Morristown Pediatric Associates is an NCQA-certified Patient-Centered Medical Home with five physicians and two nurse practitioners.
Outpatient services include well visits, sports physicals, adolescent care, in-office phlebotomists, rapid COVID-19 testing and same-day sick visits with 24/7 phone access. Physicians care for newborns at Morristown Medical Center, and prenatal visits are welcome.
Asthma care, medication management for behavioral concerns, mental health concerns and ADHD are provided along with lactation consultation and obesity
management.
“We like watching our patients grow up and develop into adolescents and young adults while providing guidance to help them lead healthy, productive lives,” the doctors say.
Left to right: (back row) Elizabeth Rice, MS, OTR/L, Laura Baldwin, MA, LPC, NCC, ADHD-CCSP, RPT, Victoria Fuerst, MS, OTR/L, Jenna Hammond (middle row) Janis J. Leinfuss, OTD, OTR/L, Erin O’Hara, MS, OTR/L, Kristin Ray, MS, OTR/L, Catherine Gilio, MS, OTR/L, Carrie Davis, MS, OTR/L (front row) Amanda Newchok, MS, OTR/L, Denise Maraziti, MA, OTR/L, Michele Parkins, MS, OTR/L, Stephanie Peters, MS, OTR/L Not pictured: AnnMarie Murphy and Geena Santomo
BEHAVED BRAIN WELLNESS CENTER
Family Mental Health Therapy
At Behaved Brain Wellness Center, Katie Gately and her team provide individual, couples and family therapy with a focus on brain health. They utilize a combination of cognitivebehavioral (CBT) play therapy and strategies, mindfulness tools and psychoeducation to treat everything from ADHD and anxiety to OCD and parental stress.
“My background in neuroscience taught me how critical it is to address the foundations of sleep, exercise, nutrition, supplements and screen time—and also ensure that parents are taking care of themselves,” says Gately, a board-certified behavior analyst and licensed professional counselor.
The therapists take a structured, holistic approach to therapy, and partner with families to determine the best treatment plans. They often use hands-on art projects and journaling to help kids better understand their brain and control positive thinking.
“We want kids to know how to be resilient and manage stress, from today’s struggles on the playground to tomorrow’s high school drama,” says the mom of two.
The highly trained, compassionate therapists at Collaborative Therapy Network work as a team to help families address an array of behavioral and mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to ADHD and marital conflicts. The practice provides a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment for people of all backgrounds, and the professional yet inviting office space was designed to make families feel safe and comfortable.
“When you have a child or adolescent who is struggling, it often becomes a family issue— and we are unique in that we have a team of experienced therapists who can work with the entire family under one roof,” says Jeri Rothe,
GREAT KIDS PLACE
owner and clinical supervisor.
All provided therapies are evidenced-based, and clients are encouraged to take an active role in their own healing and growth. The practice is also unique in that it coordinates with insurance companies to make care accessible to any family who needs it. “We truly believe that mental health treatment shouldn’t be something that only certain people can afford,” Rothe says.
collaborativetherapynetwork.com
Pediatric Occupational Therapy / Counseling
At Great Kids Place, each of the vibrant themed rooms at the practice’s oneof-a-kind sensory gym is designed to promote rich, sensory motor play. With certification in sensory processing and training in early childhood mental health, the team of therapists provides occupational therapy for families with challenges with sensory processing and integration, social-emotional development, ADHD, anxiety and dyspraxia.
“The way that we process sensations and move our body impacts the emotions that we feel and the way we act and interact,” says Michele Parkins, founder and director of Great Kids Place. “This is the foundation of our therapy model: the Sensory Emotional
Engagement Model.” The therapists work closely with families to help them understand the impact of sensory processing differences on social-emotional development and overall health and wellness.
“The most fulfilling part of our work is helping families discover how to connect with each other in new ways and watching the challenges they came to us with disappear,” she says.
Great Kids Place 21 Pine St., Ste. 205, Rockaway 973-586-8396
greatkidsplace.com
Left to right: Jennifer M. Ajosa, PsyD, Katie Gately, LPC, BCBA
Left to right: (back row) Giselle Fernandez, LSW, Jeri Rothe, LCSW, Marie Hartzel, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Katherine Riveros, LAC (front row) Kailey Rocker, LSW, Xiomara Muniz, LCADC, LSW, Kiera Mitchell, Amy Van Bebber, LSW, Lisa Perline, LCSW
Dr. Joshua Massler and his team provide compassionate, individualized care tailored to each patient and family. Using evidence-based approaches, his practice pairs patients with highly qualified professionals specializing in their areas of need.
Dr. Massler’s multidisciplinary team of experts includes Dr. Jessica Halpern, doubleboard certified psychiatrist; Alyson Rosenberg, LPC; Alexandra Vaccaro, LAC; Meryl Skinder, MSW, LCSW; Jason Lynch, MSW, LCSW; Sarah West, LPC; Melanie Wexler, LSW and Erica Shreck, Ph.D.
The practice works with children, adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety,
depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, selfesteem and relationship issues. They also offer couples counseling, certified divorce mediation and neuropsychological testing. Sessions are available in-person or remote.
“We strive to empower every individual, couple and family to become enlightened and achieve their greatest potential while becoming the best versions of themselves,” says Dr. Massler.
Joshua Massler, PsyD
Alyson Rosenberg, LPC
127 E. Mount Pleasant Ave., Livingston 49 Brant Ave., Ste. 3, Clark 973-218-5818 • masslercenter.com
PERFORMANCE PEDIATRICS
Pediatric Physical / Occupational / Speech / ABA Therapy
For more than a decade, Performance Pediatrics has served as a leading outpatient therapy clinic with both state-of-the-art facilities and a team of skilled clinicians who provide the highest quality of therapy interventions to clients.
“We pride ourselves on creating a familylike environment where both families and our team can feel trusted, valued and safe,” says Dr. Davina Daura, practice founder and owner.
The patient-centered, results-oriented practice offers individualized pediatric physical and occupational therapy, speech and ABA services as well as programs both in the office and out in the community.
The therapists partner with clients and
PLAZA FAMILY CARE
families to create, inspire and co-enlighten as they work towards independence and achieving their goals.
“We forge meaningful connections not only with the individual clients under our care, but with their families and others in the community,” Dr. Daura says. “Working collaboratively with parents and caregivers creates a supportive network that plays a crucial role in a child’s progress.”
Established in 1973, Plaza Family Care in Hackettstown and Chester is considered the gold standard for primary care within the communities it serves. The doctors are available for their patients 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The practice’s board-certified pediatricians and internists provide general medical care for infants, children, adolescents and adults.
Sub-specialty services in gastroenterology and minor surgical procedures, as well as COVID, influenza, RSV and strep testing, are also available.
In addition to the office’s separate
ventilated sick and well-care waiting rooms, the practice has enhanced its already strict disinfecting and sanitizing procedures to ensure the safety of patients, parents and staff. Appointments are scheduled seven days a week, with additional evening appointments available Monday through Thursday and weekend hours from 8:30 am to 1 pm.
Melissa Libert, DO Radhika Patel, FNP-C 657 Willow Grove St. Ste. 401, Hackettstown 245 Main St. Ste. 300, Chester 908-850-7800 • pfcmd.com
Left to right: (back row) Alexandra Vaccaro, LAC, Alyson Rosenberg, LPC, Meryl Skinder, MSW, LCSW, Melanie Wexler, LSW, (middle row) Lisa Murano, Jessica Halpern, MD, (front row), Jason Lynch, MSW, LCSW, Joshua Massler, PsyD, Sarah West, LPC
Left to right: (back row) Shauna Menzella, PT, DPT, Hannah Foster, MS, OTR/L, Jennifer Waters, OTR/L, Melissa McCabe, COTA/L, Maura Lazzara, MA, CCC-SLP, SLS, PC (front
Left to right: Unnati Tailor, DO, Radhika Patel, FNP-C, James Mahon, MD, Melissa Libert, DO, Jim Chang, MD
ADVOCARE NORTH BRUNSWICK (FORMERLY PLAZA PEDIATRICS)
Pediatrics
Dr. Hanna has been practicing in North Brunswick for over 22 years, and Dr. Kim has been practicing for over 12 years. We consider ourselves your partner in the care of your child. We are committed to providing above average services. The staff is devoted to the entire care of the child; the medical, social and emotional well-being. The doctors are available for families 24/7. We take pride in taking the time to listen, and promptly addressing your needs.
Dina Hanna, MD
Maria Batraki Kim, DO 1950 Rte. 27, Ste. HH, North Brunswick 732-940-5511 • advocareplazapediatrics.com
ALL STAR PEDIATRICS AND SPORTS MEDICINE
Pediatrics and Sports Medicine
Our team strives to provide compassionate, quality, evidence-based care in a professional, respectful, and friendly environment. Our practice focuses on providing excellent, accessible and competent care with emphasis on creating a medical home while maintaining high ethical standards and professionalism.
At Psychological and Educational Consulting, Dr. Liz Nissim and her team take a holistic approach to treating children, teens, adults and families who are struggling emotionally, socially, academically or behaviorally. The highly trained, compassionate therapists provide therapeutic, consultative and psychoeducational assessment services in a warm practice. They work closely with schools and other professionals to provide individualized services including play therapy, therapy, parent coaching, executive functioning coaching and testing for students. Practice founder and a mom of three, Dr. Nissim relies on her vast experience as a school psychologist working
ADVOCARE SUSSEX COUNTY PEDIATRICS
Pediatrics
WE CARE FOR AND ABOUT YOUR CHILD.
Advocare Sussex County Pediatrics specializes in the health and medical care of children from newborns to young adults, ages 0 to 21 years. Our practice is committed to creating an atmosphere of comfort, trust, and compassion that treats children and their families with the distinct understanding and respect they deserve.
James Porter, MD
Theresa LaFranco, MD
Kimberly Dachisen, MSN, FNP-BC, CPHON 39 Newton Sparta Rd., Ste. 3C, Newton 973-383-9841 advocarescp.com
Speech Therapy
At AST, we offer individual speech therapy services in a warm, safe and inviting clinical setting. Our pathologists are trained in speech, language, voice, fluency, cognitive-communication and swallowing, fostering significant and functional life-changing improvements in communication.
Melissa Bakker, MA, CCC-SLP
Andrea Riley, MA, CCC-SLP
Robin Kaufer, MA, CCC-SLP
Brianna Scherrer, MA, CCC-SLP
Megan Anderson, MA, CCC-SLP 195 US Hwy. 46, Mine Hill 973-970-9412 • americanspeechtherapy.com
with children with special needs to help families navigate the educational system. “We help create changes in dynamics, schedules and routines to facilitate success for the entire family,” she says. “We work hard to establish a rapport with our families and earn their trust.”
Liz Nissim, PhD
Rachael Berringer, MA, LPC, RPT
Nicholas Campestre, LCSW
John Champion, LPC
Elly Manoochehri, MA, LPC
Michelle Molle-Krowiak, LCSW, EdS, RPT 513 West Mount Pleasant Ave. Ste. 212 and 322, Livingston 973-400-8371 • psychedconsult.com
WEST MORRIS PEDIATRICS
Pediatrics
Drs. Michael Peters, Michelle HellerBarlekamp, Barbara Strand, Kandy Bahadur, and our nurse practitioners are committed to providing children with the most convenient, comprehensive and highest quality healthcare. Our physicians are board certified and members of the AAP. We specialize in well care and the treatment of acute and chronic conditions to keep your child healthy and happy.
Michael Peters, DO Michelle Heller-Barlekamp, DO Barbara Strand, MD Kandy Bahadur, MD 151 Rte. 10, Ste. 105, Succasunna 973-584-0002 • advocarewestmorrispediatrics.com
BAKER STREET BEHAVIORAL HEALTH & THE COR BEHAVIORAL GROUP
Psychology and Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health
Dr. Galasso is a clinical, consulting and sport psychologist. He is licensed to practice in NY and NJ. Dr. Galasso works with children, adolescents, schools, teams, first responders and more, and currently provides psychological and performance services for several professional teams.
Joseph Galasso, PsyD 851 Franklin Lake Rd., Ste. 204, Franklin Lakes 833-937-2724 bakerstreetpsych.com
ADVOCARE
AMERICAN SPEECH THERAPY
Left to right: Michelle Molle-Krowiak, LCSW, EdS, Rachael Berringer, MA, LPC, RPT, Liz Nissim, PhD, Amanda Marshall, PhD, Nicholas Campestre, LCSW, John Champion, LPC, Elly Manoochehri, MA, LPC
BAYLES FAMILY SPEECH CENTER, LLC
Speech-Language Pathology
Denise has been helping children and their families improve their skills since 1995. She is PROMPT-level 2 trained and versed in motor speech disorders, oral motor deficits, language delays/disorders, Aphasia, articulation, and feeding/swallowing. Her experience working with Early Intervention and the school districts can help you navigate additional help your child may need.
Denise Favor Bayles, MA, CCC-SLP
191 Church Rd., Bridgewater 908-578-0825 baylesfamilyspeechcenter.com
RANDY A. BRESSLER, PsyD, LLC
Pediatric Neuropsychology
Dr. Bressler has extensive experience treating and evaluating children, adolescents and adults who encounter depression, anxiety, ADHD, traumatic brain injuries, autistic spectrum disorders, psychosis and learning disabilities. He has a specialty in pediatric neuropsychology; and consults with schools, courts, medical practices, online health websites and community organizations.
Dr. Deborah Coy has been dedicated to providing the very best care for her pediatric patients for 33 years. Practicing with Dr. Coy is Dr. Angelica Soto Pereira. Both doctors are board-certified pediatricians and are members of St. Barnabas Medical Staff. The philosophy of the office is “no question is unimportant.” We take the time with our patients and their families assuring all their needs are fulfilled.
Believe in Me was founded on the belief that EVERY child possesses unlimited potential. We provide individualized ABA therapy with a strong focus on social skills, communication, and parent engagement with OT and speech on-site.
Suzanne Donohue specializes in providing outpatient mental health services to children, teens and college students struggling with anxiety and mood disorders, ADHD/executive functioning deficits/dysregulation and other behavioral challenges. She also provides parent psychoeducation/therapy to help parents support their child and to develop effective strategies to manage their symptoms.
Flora & Associates makes therapy a safe, supportive and even enjoyable space! From art therapy to counseling, we help you tackle life’s challenges with resilience and a smile. Whether you’re navigating big emotions or small bumps in the road, we provide personalized care to help you thrive and succeed.
Marna Lynn is the founder and director of Bergen Family Therapy (BFT), an elite Child, Adolescent, Family, Parenting and Couples Therapy Practice. BFT is known for the commitment that each therapist makes with their patients. In addition to our extensive training, experience and expertise, we are all trained in the areas of the newest brain research and emotional physiology.
Dr. Colyer-Aversa is a solo practitioner. Her care center is Bloomridge Pediatrics, a PCP affiliate. She is a graduate of NJ Medical School and completed her residency at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center/Babies Hospital in New York City. Certification and Affiliations: American Board of Pediatrics since 1992; St. Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston.
Lori A. Colyer-Aversa, MD 1310 Broad St., Bloomfield 973-748-9500 njpcp.com
FOOT & ANKLE PREMIER SPECIALISTS
Foot & Ankle Specialists and Surgery
Board-certified in foot and ankle surgery, Dr. Juliana Paternina strives to get patients back on their feet as soon as possible after an injury. With six NJ locations, the boutique practice provides personalized care in a compassionate environment. “I help my patients fully understand their condition, but also educate them on how to prevent it from happening again.”
Juliana Paternina, DPM, FACFAS Locations in Hudson, Bergen and Essex Counties 201-659-5222 footandankleps.com
GABBING TOGETHER
Speech Therapy
Gabbing Together provides speech, language and feeding therapy, ages 0-21 years, treating an array of diagnoses in a professional, compassionate, dynamic manner. My areas of expertise are sensory feeding and autism. As a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, I focus on good feeding skills from birth. As a mom, I ensure your family is part of the therapy process to obtain ideal results.
Areas of Special Interest: ADD/ADHD, Angelman Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Child Study Team Evaluations, Learning Disorders, Concussions, Developmental Delays, Epilepsy, Headaches/Migraines, Movement Disorders including Tics, Tourette Syndrome, Neuromuscular and Genetic Disorders. Board Certified in Pediatrics and Neurology with added qualifications in Child Neurology, Botox, EEG/ EMG, and Evoked Potentials.
Marilyn A. Kubichek, MD, FAAP 256 Columbia Tpke., Ste. 109, N. Tower, Florham Park 973-377-7822 • drkubichek@netscape.net
General Pediatrics
We believe in providing comprehensive care that examines your child’s emotional, behavioral and physical states to promote health and treat illness. We promise to acknowledge your concerns, share your goals and work to sustain the privilege of being a partner in your child’s development and wellness because the health of a child is essential to the health of a family.
Jay A. Lovenheim, DO, FAAP
Susan Yoo, MD, FAAP
Seema Mathew, MD, FAAP
Kaitlin Hulbert, APN, FNP-C 101 Old Short Hills Rd., West Orange 973-325-1115 • lovenheimpediatrics.com
HERRICK HOME CARE PHYSICAL THERAPY ORTHOPEDIC & PEDIATRIC SERVICES P.C.
Physical Therapy
Herrick Home Care Physical Therapy Orthopedic & Pediatric Services
P.C offers individualized specialized care for pediatric and sports injury cases in the home and in our office! Samantha (SLP) and Dr. Kyle Herrick (PT) have a passion for working with children from birth to 21, as well as adults. Our office has private therapy rooms, two BRAND NEW sensory rooms and a workout room!
Kyle Herrick, PT Samantha Herrick, SLP 2282 Hamburg Tpke., Ste. A, Wayne 973-800-4050 • herrickphysicaltherapy.com
Pediatric Neuropsychology
Leah McGuire is a pediatric neuropsychologist, a nationally certified school psychologist, and a licensed psychologist in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. She’s an adjunct assistant professor of psychology and education at Teachers College, Columbia University, where she teaches graduatelevel coursework related to evidence-based assessment, consultation, diagnosis, intervention and therapy.
Adrienne Smith has specialized in pediatric psychiatry since 2010 both as an RN and an APN, and obtained additional training and certification in perinatal psychiatry in 2020. We treat a variety of diagnoses including ADHD, anxiety and mood disorders. Regardless of your struggles, we will find a way to work together to optimize your mental health and reach your goals!
Adrienne Smith DNP, APN, PMHNP-BC, PMH-C 114 South 2nd St., Phillipsburg 908-339-8696 • mindlightpsych.com
HOLISTIC FAMILY HEALTHCARE
Family Practice
Holistic Family Healthcare is a family practice located in northwestern NJ. They utilize a unique approach to healthcare by blending traditional and integrative medicines. Patients appreciate how thorough the providers are at each visit. After being in practice for nearly 19 years, Elaine has recently hired another Nurse Practitioner to help meet the high demand for appointments.
Kerri and Christina are registered play therapists who use the science of play to help children, teens, and families learn skills that enable them to love, play, and grow into their best selves. Far from ordinary talk therapy, our services are individualized to the needs of the family and are as effective as they are fun.
We specialize in treating kids with autism, sensory regulation issues, sensory processing disorders, low muscle tone, fine and gross motor delays as well as torticollis. Our individualized treatment plans are centered around your child’s developmental needs.
Shoshana Newman, PT, Director
Melissa Cunha, PT
Wendy Gensler, OT Elisa Grossbard, OT Amy Ladetsky, OT Grace Malone, OT 154 S. Livingston Ave., Ste. 204, Livingston 973-535-5010 PediatricPotentialsNJ.com
MARILYN A. KUBICHEK, MD, FAAP
LEAH A. MCGUIRE, PhD
PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES OF WESTFIELD
Pediatrics
At Pediatric Associates of Westfield, you will find experienced board-certified physicians to care for your children. We are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best technology and resources to provide excellent care. Our goal is to provide a positive and caring experience to make a difference in your child’s overall health and well-being.
Robert A. Panza, MD
Jane C. Presti, MD 566 Westfield Ave., Westfield 908-233-7171
learn. grow. thrive. Bryan, Juliana, Carl and LJ assist children and adults in reprocessing unresolved experiences and generating solutions for personal evolution. We recognize our clients’ distinct needs and offer support and understanding.
Bryan M. Niederman, PhD
Juliana Tozzi, MSW, LSW
Carl C. Papandrea, PsyD LJ Horowitz, MSW, LSW 160 S. Livingston Ave., Ste. 113, Livingston 12 New Providence Rd., Ste. 101, Watchung 973-486-6248 • purepsych.com
ANDY SMITH,
DC
Chiropractic
Why let your kids suffer when relief is available with natural and gentle Chiropractic care? Chiropractic has successfully helped to treat headaches, eczema, constipation, asthma, sensory processing disorders, learning disabilities and much more. Find out how your family can live a happier and healthier life through Chiropractic.
PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES OF WESTFIELD
Pediatrics
Pediatric Associates of Westfield now has two offices. 570 Westfield Avenue is located right next door to our main building! Both offices are committed to continuously educating ourselves and incorporating the best technology to provide excellent care. Our goal is to provide a positive and caring experience to make a difference in your child’s overall health and well-being.
Dr. Kalafut is a licensed psychologist with extensive experience treating children, adolescents and adults encountering anxiety, depression, executive functioning deficits and behavioral disorders. As an experienced school psychologist, Dr. Kalafut is well-versed on emotional and behavioral factors that impede optimal learning and developing educational plans to address these needs.
Childhood Apraxia of Speech, Early Language Development, Myofunctional Disorders, Speech Sound Disorders
Speech Specialists LLC specializes in early speech and language development. We are PROMPT Certified and provide expert evaluation and treatment for Childhood Apraxia of Speech using a holistic, play-based approach. No matter the speech or language concern, we focus on the whole child, making learning fun and effective. Reach out today to help your child communicate with confidence!
PTATRIC THERAPY, LLC
Pediatric Physical Therapy
Dr. Aliza Feuerstein was awarded the designation of board-certified clinical specialist in pediatric physical therapy by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. She received her doctorate from UMDNJ (now Rutgers) and graduated with the highest Academic Excellence award. Aliza treats all developmental, neurological and musculoskeletal diagnoses with a special niche in the treatment of torticollis and plagiocephaly.
Aliza Feuerstein PT, DPT, PCS 135 Columbia Tpke., Ste. 302, Florham Park 201-888-1997 • PTatrictherapy.com
Sports Medicine and Family Practice
Sports Chiropractic focuses on sports injuries, sports nutrition, and exercise physiology. Techniques include Activator Methods, a low force adjusting technique, and Active Release Technique, addressing muscle and other soft tissue injuries. Also, specializing in pediatrics, pre- and postnatal care, providing patients of all ages with a holistic approach for good health and active lifestyles.
Andrea J. Sciarrillo, DC, CCSP, CSCS 301 North Ave. E., Cranford 908-272-5400 drsciarrillo.com
SpOT ON THERAPY SERVICES
Pediatric Speech & Occupational Therapy
SpOT On is Middletown’s & Red Bank’s first sensory gym for pediatric therapy services. We focus on integrating a sensory based approach to enhance communication, play, fine and gross motor skills. We implement evidence-based strategies including PROMPT treatment for language delays/disorders, feeding therapy, tongue and lip ties and more. Insurance accepted.
Alexandria Dominici, MS, CCC-SLP/SLS PC 8 Lahaway Creek Ct., Millstone Twp. 609-610-1610• speechspecialistsllc.com
Carissa Cardinale, MA, CCC-SLP, TSSLD 500 NJ-35, Ste. 512, Red Bank 732-333-1355 spotontherapyservices.com
ANDREA J. SCIARRILLO, DC
SPEECH SPECIALISTS LLC
SUPPORTIVE SPACE COUNSELING CENTER
Psychology & Behavioral Health
Dr. Scholz has over a decade of experience working successfully with individuals (children, adolescents, and adults) struggling with a wide array of mental health conditions as well as various everyday life problems. Dr. Scholz additionally founded Supportive Space Counseling Center, the first entirely online counseling agency in the U.S. which serves consumers across NJ.
At Wonderful Ways Speech Therapy, we utilize an integrative, strength-based model that incorporates play and sensory approaches. Our therapists are certified in PROMPT, Lindamood-Bell Visualizing and Verbalizing, DIR Floortime, Wilson Reading, Social Thinking and more. We are committed to a family-centered approach, embracing and supporting each child’s unique needs and strengths.
Gwenyth Schiller, MS, CCC-SLP
Sarah Brown, MS, CCC-SLP 135 Columbia Tpke., Ste. 302, Florham Park 973-283-5664 wonderfulwaysst.com
WEISS MEDICAL
Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
Dr. Weiss’ undergraduate education was at Cornell University. He then attended Hahnemann University School of Medicine (now Drexel University). He went on to perform a pediatric residency at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center and then a fellowship in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology at Long Island Jewish Medical Center. He has been in practice since 2002.
Jaclyn has proudly practiced occupational and feeding therapy at Wright Choice Therapy since 2020. She embodies the WCT mission of authenticity and connection, shown by the love and attention she gives to the families she serves. She trains new therapists to foster their growth and development. Watch your kids flourish with the best occupational, speech and feeding therapists.
Jaclyn Heineman, MS, OTR/L
505 S. Lenola Rd., Ste. 207, Moorestown 856-437-0575 wrightchoicetherapynj.com
WELLNESS PEDIATRICS
Pediatrics
Wellness Pediatrics would like to thank our patients for nominating and selecting us for this honor each of the last 14 years. Thank you for trusting us to provide care for your children. We love our jobs and thank you for letting us help you raise healthy children!
Exceptional pediatric dental professionals recommended by New Jersey parents
DENTISTRY
Anthony Cannilla, DMD • Montville, p. 88
Anthony Caramico, DMD • Midland Park, p. 89
Debra Duryea, DMD • Mendham
Bradley Entrup, DDS • Fort Lee, River Edge, p. 88
Armie B. Farcon, DMD • Fords
Justin Fried, DDS • Maplewood
Elizabeth Garrison, DDS • Madison
Jeannette Glass-Brudzinski, DMD, MS • Florham Park, p. 73
Dina Jackson, DMD • Hackensack, p. 81
Jon Paul Jacquet, DDS • Millville
Julie James, DDS • Midland Park, p. 89
Nihal Kamel, DMD • Cranbury, p. 88
Celine Lee, DMD • Madison
Richard Marcus, DMD • Lakewood
Lawrence O’Mallon, DMD • Jersey City
Lisa Rangel, DMD, MAGD • Morristown, p. 90
Samuel Romano, DMD • Madison
Noah Ruitenberg, DMD • Midland Park, p. 90
Kathleen Sauchelli, DMD • Clifton
Neepa Shah, DMD • South Orange
Bhairavi Sheth, DMD • Hillsborough, p. 89
Rebecca Stamler, DMD • Hackensack, p. 81
Eric Veenstra, DMD • Midland Park, p. 90
Ali N. Weiselberg, DDS • Fort Lee, p. 89
Steven Yee, DDS • Flemington
ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
Akeyla Brown, DDS • Livingston
Jason Diamond, DDS, MD • Hackensack, Franklin Lakes, Ridgewood, Westwood
Nitish Gangoli, DMD • Hackensack, p. 81
Michael Kirsch, DDS • Caldwell, Florham Park
ORTHODONTICS
Domenico Addiego, DMD • Forked River, Manahawkin, p. 88
Daniel Akkaway, DDS • Kinnelon, Montvale, Vernon, West Milford, p. 82
Heather Albert, DMD • Jackson
Steven Asanza, DMD • Toms River
Kenneth Banasiak, DMD • Basking Ridge, Mendham, p. 84
Heather Baumwoll, DMD • Randolph
Howard Bobrow, DMD • Denville
Stephen Bosonac, DDS • Brick, Clark, p. 88
Ezra Brown, DMD, MS • Howell, Marlboro
John Butler, DMD • Manahawkin, p. 90
David Caggiano, MS, DMD • Parsippany, p. 69
Christopher Callan, DMD • Lawrenceville
Greg Campi, DMD • Old Bridge
Christina R. Carter, DMD • Madison, p. 84
Michael Castagna, DDS • Dunellen, Madison
Giri Chelian, DDS • Union City
Christopher Chung, DDS • Millburn
Michael J. Chung, DDS • Freehold, Manalapan
Tina S. Chung, DMD, MS • Clifton, p. 88
Michael Clemente, DMD • Ridgewood, Woodcliff Lake
Steven M. Cohen, DMD • Pittsgrove
Patrick T. Cuozzo, DDS, PA • Lincroft, Sea Girt, p. 85
Karen DeSimone, DDS • Pennington
Celest Fernandez-Vives, DDS • Robbinsville
Adar Finkel, DMD, MS • River Vale, 87
Barbara Fodero, DDS, MS • Chatham, p. 84
Staci Frankowitz, DMD • Teaneck
Scott D. Gersch, DMD • Cranford, Linden, Westfield, p. 74
Stanley Gersch, DMD • Cranford, Linden, Westfield, p. 74
Michael Goldkind, DMD • Morristown, p. 89
Bernard Gorkowitz, DDS • Hasbrouck Heights, Livingston
Brett Handsman, DMD • Springfield, p. 80
Douglas Harte, DMD • Livingston, Sparta, p. 89
Lawrence Harte, DDS • Livingston, Sparta, p. 89
Andrew Hoch, DMD • Matawan, Westfield
Nick Kelley, DMD • Old Bridge
Hansuk Kim, DDS • Denville
Kevin Lehnes, DMD • Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, p. 76
Darren Loew, DDS • Annandale, Bridgewater, Flemington, p. 85
Robert Lorino, DMD • Belleville, Franklin Lakes, Gillette, Kearny, Wayne Mehreen Merchant, DMD • Raritan
Michael Messana, DDS • Bayonne, Jersey City, Wallington
Richard A. Newman, DMD • Randolph, West Orange, p. 89
Christopher Overcash, DMD • East Brunswick, p. 88
Niyati Patel-Parekh, DMD, MDS • Annandale, Bridgewater, Flemington, p. 85
Matthew Peluso, DMD, MS • Cedar Grove, Rivervale, p. 89
Robert Peterman, DMD, MDS • Hillsborough, Skillman, Somerville, p. 79
Lauren Pinkus, DMD, MS • Howell, Marlboro
Suzanne Quigley, DMD • Red Bank
Melissa Roberto, DMD • Rockaway, p. 78
Nick Romanides, DMD • North Bergen
Gregory Rosenberg, DMD • Wayne
Ilona P. Rossignol, DMD • Cranford, Linden, Westfield, p. 74
Jason Rothenberg, DMD • Madison
Eric M. Sacks, DMD • Livingston, Summit
Russell M. Sandman, DMD, MS • Closter
Tara Savage, DMD • Old Bridge
Breyn Schuster, DDS • Garwood
Eric Segall, DMD, MS • Jackson, p. 89
Rupali Shah, DMD • Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, p. 76
Dana Silagi, DDS • Springfield, p. 80
Blair Sittmann, DMD • Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, p. 76
Christopher Sohn, DMD • Kinnelon, Montvale, Vernon, West Milford, p. 82
Anthony Terrana, DMD • New Providence, p. 90
Nancy Villa, DMD • Old Bridge
Jason Vives, DDS • Old Bridge, p. 88
Ryan Walter, DMD • Phillipsburg
Alys Walter, DMD • Phillipsburg
Robert Weeman, DDS • Oakland
Laurene Wolf, DMD • Hillsborough
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Cory Aceto, DDS • Randolph
Ilona Aleksandrovich, DDS • Old Bridge
Brian Allen, DMD • Lawrenceville
Dan Allen, DDS • Oakland, p. 89
Michelle M. Backhaus, DMD •
East Brunswick, p. 88
Joseph Basilicato, DMD • Pompton Lakes
Mitchell Bayroff, DDS • Summit
Maria Bender, DMD • Cherry Hill
Allison Brand, DMD • Morristown
Cavan Brunsden, DMD • Old Bridge
Melissa Burruezo, DMD • Bedminster
Christina R. Carter, DMD • Madison, p. 84
Lirie Cekalniku, DMD • Old Bridge
Ron Chang, DDS • Clifton
Yong- Jin Chang, DDS • Randolph
Veronica Choi, DDS • Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, p. 76
Andy Chung, DMD • Princeton, p. 90
Medina Dadurian, DMD • Paramus
Archana Devi, DDS • Branchburg, p. 88
Rohini Dhar, DDS • Union
Daniel Dinowitz, DMD • Voorhees
Justin Dinowitz, DMD • Cream Ridge, Manahawkin, Toms River, p. 77
Frank Ferrara, DMD • Wayne
Camille Fineza, DDS • Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, p. 76
Raha Ghafurian, DMD • Cream Ridge, Manahawkin, Toms River, p. 77
Khushali Ghetia, DDS • Mount Laurel, Voorhees
Akriti Gupta, DMD • Cream Ridge, Manahawkin, Toms River, p. 77
Preeti Gupta, DDS • Fair Lawn, p. 90
Sol Han, DMD • Englewood
Sharna Hemrajani, DMD • Parsippany
Purnima Hernandez, DDS • Fair Lawn
Rachel Hoffmann, DMD • East Brunswick
Kimberly Hollywood, DMD • Nutley, p. 86
Edward M. Jackson, DMD • Hackensack, p. 81
Dinah Jammal, DMD • Princeton
Julie Jong, DMD • Westfield, p. 83
Michael Kasselian, DDS • Fort Lee
Hillary Khodari, DMD • Old Bridge
Boris Kleyman, DDS • Fair Lawn
Stephen B. Korson, DDS • Summit
Leona Kotlyar, DDS • Paramus
Yana Kozlovsky, DMD • Marlboro, p. 75
Dennis Lam, DDS, MS FRCD(C) • Florham Park, p. 73
Bernadette Lapena, DDS • Branchburg, p. 88
Michael P. Lateiner, DMD • Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, p. 76
Dianne Lee, DMD • Kinnelon, Montvale, Vernon, West Milford
Aimee Leibowitz-Frank, DDS • Westfield
Shirley Lodziato, DMD • Flanders
Nadia Majeed, DDS • Springfield
Mega Manchanda, DDS • Old Bridge
Andrea Mann, DMD • Basking Ridge, p. 87
Matthew Mannella, DMD • Randolph
Tyra Manso, DDS • Montclair
Yashashwini Bangalore Marappa, DDS • Mahwah
Rosalie V. Matos, DDS • Roselle Park
Timothy McCabe, DMD • Westfield, p. 83
Mary Jo McGuire, DMD • Annandale, p. 86
Wilma McPherson, DMD • Jersey City
Michael Neiman, DDS • Rutherford
Rosalie Nguyen, DMD • Edgewater, p. 72
Peter Paradiso, DMD • Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, p. 76
Tina Park, DDS • Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, p. 76
Mrunal Parmar, DDS • Franklin Lakes, Park Ridge, p. 90
Chirag B. Patel, DMD • Cranford, p. 85
Mouli Patel, DMD • Union, p. 86
Roshni Patel, DMD • Union, p. 86
Rekha Patil, DDS • Perth Amboy
Amy Schwartz Phillips, DMD • Cranford, p. 85
Leandro Piccoli, DDS • Clifton
Amy Planz, DDS • Hillsborough
Victoria Roeder, DDS • Cream Ridge, Manahawkin, Toms River, p. 77
Brian Rooney, DDS • Hamilton Twp.
Geena Russo, DMD • Princeton
Michael Saba, DMD • Union
Devina Shah, DMD • Millburn, p. 87
Neha Shah, DDS • Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, p. 76
Kristy L. Slachta, DMD • Lawrenceville
Harleen Sodhi, DMD • Metuchen
Matthew Sones, DMD • Cream Ridge, Manahawkin, Toms River, p. 77
Dmitry Stillman, DDS • Cliffside Park
Ari Sugarman, DMD • Clifton
Hassam Sultan, DMD, MS, FAAPD • Clifton, p. 70
Negar Tabari, DMD • Randolph
Mara Teplitsky, DDS • Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton, p. 76
Pablo Trillo, DDS • Cliffside Park, Howell, Jackson, Jersey City, Lakewood, Lodi, Neptune, Toms River, p. 71
Elisa Velazquez, DMD • Cream Ridge, Manahawkin, Toms River, p. 77
Kelly Walk, DDS • Westfield, p. 83
Amy Waxman, DMD • Edison
Donn H. Winokur, DDS • Cliffside Park, Howell, Jackson, Jersey City, Lakewood, Lodi, Neptune, Toms River, p. 71
Jenna C. Winokur, DMD • Cliffside Park, Howell, Jackson, Jersey City, Lakewood, Lodi, Neptune, Toms River, p. 71
John Yoo, DDS • Fort Lee
Orthodontics
Dr. David Caggiano knows you have a choice when it comes to your orthodontic care.
That’s why Caggiano Orthodontics is committed to combining the latest technology with exceptional customer service.
“Orthodontics allows me to apply my master’s degree in biomedical engineering, artistic talent and previous seven years of general dentistry experience to create innovative solutions for even the toughest orthodontic situation,” Dr. Caggiano says. “Our goal is always to provide the most up-to-date technology and techniques and use the best materials available.”
Comfortable, Efficient Treatments
The author of A Parent’s Guide To Understanding Orthodontics: How To Confidently Choose The Best Orthodontist For Your Family and Perfectly Clear: Everything You Need To Know About Invisalign, Dr. Caggiano was one of the first in the state to use digital impression scanners and 3-D printers. The practice can provide impression-free treatments that eliminate goopy molds and discomfort. The use of high-quality, self-ligating braces and indirect bonding allows for fewer appointments, shorter treatment
times and superior results.
“Engineering each smile should be personalized,” says the father of two. “It’s important to achieve the best result in the most efficient and comfortable manner for each patient.”
Affordable Orthodontic Care for Families
This year marks Dr. Caggiano’s 14th consecutive year being reviewed and approved as a New Jersey Family’s Favorite Kids’ Doc. The area’s leading Invisalign provider for teenagers and adults, he is passionate about making orthodontic care affordable for families; Caggiano Orthodontics offers free consultations, convenient hours and flexible payment plans.
“Patients are always complimenting us on how thorough our exam process is,” he says. “As a father, I want the best care for my child, and I know the parents of my patients feel the same.”
At Dentistry for Children, board-certified pediatric dentist Dr. Hassam Sultan and orthodontist Dr. Lin Lin Ngu believe a child’s confidence is reflected in their smile.
Stress-Free Treatments
The colorful, inviting office focuses on minimally invasive, prevention-oriented dentistry, and Drs. Sultan and Lin Lin pride themselves on building long-lasting relationships with their patients. They provide stressfree dental and orthodontic treatments using the latest technologies, including radiation-free imaging, silver diamine fluoride (SDF) for cavity prevention, Curodont to help teeth remineralize naturally, and soft tissue lasers for lip and tongue tie releases. They offer orthodontic treatment with Invisalign or traditional braces for ALL ages at the office.
“We ensure the highest standard of care while providing the best overall experience for children,” Dr. Sultan says. “We always provide the treatment options that will be the least traumatic for patients and allow parents the flexibility to decide what’s best for their child.”
Comprehensive Dental Care for All Patients
With its Nanoleaf light-up panel touch and feel room and private suites featuring beanbags and loungers for treatments, the office is sensory-friendly and the providers are highly trained in working with patients with special needs.
The practice has teamed up with lactation specialists and feeding and speech therapists to provide the most comprehensive care for pediatric patients and their families. In-house sedation is available when necessary. “We tailor the treatment experience to whatever is most comfortable for each child,” he says.
A professor at Rutgers University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Sultan earned his DMD at the University of Connecticut and completed his residency at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. Dr. Lin Lin received her DDS at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia and orthodontic training at Montefiore Medical Center.
Left to right: Hassam Sultan, DMD, MS, FAAPD, Lin Lin Ngu, DDS
Pediatric Dentistry
Dentistry for Children has provided quality pediatric dental care to the children and families of New Jersey for more than 40 years, growing from a single location in Toms River to nine locations across the state.
Putting Patients at Ease
The practice is committed to treating children in a friendly and welcoming environment. The dentists use digital X-rays and modern equipment in their bright, open and kid-friendly offices. There are iPads and games in the waiting rooms and movies in each room for the kids to watch during their appointments.
The compassionate, friendly dentists ensure that families fully understand their treatment options and that patients are always at ease, including those who may be fearful or have special needs.
“When my father, Dr. Donn Winokur, started practicing, he was one of the first in the area to treat children with special needs—and it remains an incredibly important part of our practices to this day,” says Dr. Jenna C. Winokur.
Educating Families on Dental Health
The dentists emphasize education with both patients and parents to ensure that families are adopting healthy dental habits, from the amount of toothpaste to use to the snacks that are best for a child’s teeth and overall health. The practice also offers convenient office hours as well as online appointment scheduling and the ability to communicate with staff through text.
“It’s an incredible feeling when you have a child that may be a bit anxious to come to the dentist and you see them walk away with a huge smile on their face, or they give you a high-five or a hug at the end of their visit,” she says. “We know that you have to build trust with the little patients, and that’s what makes them look forward to coming back to see the dentist.”
Donn H. Winokur, DDS
Jenna C. Winokur, DMD
Pablo Trillo, DDS
Cliffside Park, Howell, Jackson, Jersey City, Lakewood, Lodi, Neptune, Toms River 833-KIDS-DFC • dentistryforchildrenus.com
Left to right: Donn H. Winokur, DDS, Jenna C. Winokur, DMD
Pediatric Dentistry
Known to patients as “Dr. Rose,” Dr. Rosalie Nguyen makes patients feel at home while providing personalized, best-in-class dental treatment for infants, children, adolescents and patients with special needs.
Earning Patients’ Trust
Dr. Rose and her associates strive to change the way children feel about dental visits and procedures. The practice’s mission is to ensure that each child and family is treated with respect and support while receiving the highest quality dental care in a safe, nurturing environment.
“We always take the time to answer questions and educate our patients and parents,” says Dr. Rose, a mother of three boys. “We build trust with patients by explaining what we’re doing every step of the way, and treat each patient as if they were our own child.”
A Variety of Treatment Modalities
Dr. Rose and her team utilize state-of-the-art techniques and offer an array of treatment modalities in their modern, all-digital practice. Treatment options
include the minimally invasive silver diamine fluoride treatment, anesthesia-free laser treatment, nitrous oxide, IV sedation and general anesthesia at Hackensack University Medical Center.
After earning her dental degree at UMDNJ, she completed a general dental residency at St Joseph’s Hospital in Paterson and pediatric dental residency at St. Barnabas Hospital in Bronx, NY. Dr. Rose also underwent extensive training at the Rose F. Kennedy Children’s Center in treating patients with special needs. She started working in private practice in 2005 and opened her own office in 2009.
“We provide all of these different treatment modalities so we can be a one-stop shop for families,” Dr. Rose says. “There’s no need to bring your child to multiple practices for their dental care—we do it all right here.”
Rosalie Nguyen, DMD
725 River Rd., Ste. 204A Edgewater 201-313-5437 edgewaterpediatricdentistry.com
Husband-and-wife team Drs. Dennis Lam and Jeannette Glass-Brudzinski provide compassionate, individualized treatment for children and adults at Gallery of Little Smiles and Gallery of Smiles.
“Our practices have a ‘patient-first’ approach,” Dr. Lam says. “What our patients value most is a high level of involvement in their ultimate dental outcomes.”
Convenient, High-Quality Care
The high-tech offices have separate reception rooms for adult and child patients. Dr. Lam provides early orthodontic treatment and Dr. Glass-Brudzinski’s comprehensive cosmetic dentistry helps patients break the cycle of dental disease and maintain their beautiful results.
“Fixing teeth may be a critical part of the solution, but that’s never where the story ends,” she says. “We invest time and energy into patient education so that results are longlasting—and complications are rare to none.”
Meeting Patients’ Unique Needs
A board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Lam treats children, adolescents and patients with special needs. He partners
with parents to develop tailored treatment plans that provide a foundation for safe, effective dental care. “My job is to help empower caregivers to provide the best home dental care possible between dental visits,” he says.
The practices specialize in sedation dentistry, inoffice nitrous oxide and IV sedation and hospital dentistry. The dentists offer silver diamine fluoride, hall crowns and laser dentistry.
On staff at Morristown Medical Center, Dr. Lam earned his DDS from Columbia University and trained at the BronxLebanon Center. Dr. Glass-Brudzinski earned her DMD from the University of British Columbia. She completed an oral/ maxillofacial surgery externship at Mt. Sinai Hospital, general practice residency at NY Medical College and orthodontic and cosmetic externships at UCSF and Harvard University.
Dennis Lam, DDS, MS FRCD(C) Jeannette Glass-Brudzinski, DMD, MS
220 Ridgedale Ave., Ste. B1, Florham Park Gallery of Little Smiles • 973-295-6700 Gallery of Smiles • 973-295-6600 galleryoflittlesmiles.com • galleryofsmilesnj.com
OF LITTLE SMILES / GALLERY OF SMILES
Pediatric Dentistry / Cosmetic Dentistry
Left to right: Drs. Dennis Lam, Jeannette Glass-Brudzinski
Orthodontics
Father-and-son team Drs. Stanley and Scott Gersch and their partner, Dr. Ilona P. Rossignol, provide an exceptional orthodontic experience in their newly remodeled, high-tech offices in Westfield, Cranford and Linden. They combine advanced treatments and technology with a caring approach.
Four Decades of Smiles
“We’ve been treating children, teens and adults for more than 40 years, and we’re proud that our doctors and their families are local and active members of the community,” says Dr. Stanley Gersch, past president of the NJ Association of Orthodontists and Director of Invisalign at NYU.
The doctors have a prevention-oriented approach with a non-extraction philosophy, and are proponents of early intervention treatment. They keep visits fun with theme weeks, contests, events and prizes
Diamond Plus Top 1% ELITE Invisalign Providers
Their three state-of-the art practices use the latest technology, such as digital scanners (no goopy impressions!), lasers and self-ligating brackets, to create customized treatment plans. All three doctors are Invisalign and Invisalign
Teen Diamond Plus Providers, the highest distinction given to the Top 1% of providers.
The practice offers a range of cosmetic options with shorter treatment times and minimal discomfort. All three locations offer early morning, evening and weekend hours with flexible payment options and work with most insurance plans.
“It’s a privilege to be a part of this outstanding team and have the opportunity to transform our patients’ smiles and lives,” Dr. Rossignol says. A board-certified orthodontist, she earned her DMD from Harvard University and MS in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine.
“Our greatest reward is seeing our patients’ confidence grow as we create generations of smiles that last a lifetime,” says Dr. Scott Gersch, a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.
Stanley Gersch, DMD; Scott D. Gersch, DMD
Ilona P. Rossignol, DMD
547 E. Broad St., Westfield 118 North Ave. W., Cranford 401 North Wood Ave., Linden 908-233-8668 • GerschOrtho.com • CranfordOrtho.com
Left to right: Drs. Stanley Gersch, Ilona Rossignol, Scott D. Gersch
Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentist Dr. Yana Kozlovsky wants parents and their children to know that going to the dentist can actually be fun. Known as Dr. Yana, she strives to help her young patients enjoy dental visits while positively influencing children’s dental development and ensuring future oral health.
Making Dental Visits Fun
The family-oriented, modern practice features iPads, games and TVs for kids (and their parents) to enjoy—her patients often don’t want to leave the office after their appointment. Dr. Kozlovsky’s staff knows and engages with each child personally.
“Our staff has been here for a long time, so they have developed relationships with our families and make kids feel welcome the moment they walk through the door— and when it’s time for treatment, our assistants and hygienists are also a lot of fun,” says the mother of three.
Dr. Kozlovsky believes in conservative treatment whenever possible. The state-of-the-art practice offers the latest technology, including digital radiographs and intraoral photos.
Team Effort for Treatment
Dr. Kozlovsky always discusses all available options with parents. “The care we provide is completely individualized, and it’s always a team effort here—we believe in partnering with families and presenting them with all of their options so we can decide upon the best treatment plan for their child together.”
Dr. Kozlovsky is a recipient of the Richard C. Pugh Achievement Award for outstanding performance on the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry examination. She completed her DMD Degree at Rutgers Dental School, a general practice residency at Mountainside Hospital and a residency in pediatric dentistry at Maimonides Medical Center, where she served as chief resident.
“I’ve always known I wanted to work with kids—they are so much fun and everyone in our office genuinely enjoys interacting with our patients and getting to know them,” she says.
Yana Kozlovsky, DMD
7 South Main St., Ste. G, Marlboro 732-414-6900
sunnysmilesmarlboro.com
NEWTON-SPARTA / KIDZ WORLD PED
Pediatric Dentistry / Orthodontics
Dr. Michael Lateiner and Dr. Peter Paradiso want kids and parents alike to know that going to the dentist can be fun. “Our job is to make sure that kids leave happy and are excited to come back,” says Dr. Lateiner, a board-certified pediatric dentist and 15-time New Jersey Family Favorite Kids’ Doc. “We’re happiest when a once-fearful patient leaves with a smile.”
Positive Dental Visits for Kids
Known as “Dr. Mike” and “Dr. Pete,” the pediatric dentists are admittedly kids at heart. The decor of their practice’s three modern, vibrant office locations reflects their commitment to making dentistry and orthodontics a positive experience for children. They treat children and teens in a welcoming atmosphere with all the bells and whistles, from TVs to an Xbox, tablets and touch-screen games. The Newton location has a jungle theme, Cedar Knolls depicts a trip around the world in a giant hot air balloon, and the practice’s newest office in Hackettstown takes kids under the sea. “We try to keep everything fresh and new to ensure kids enjoy their experience with us,” says Dr. Lateiner, a father of three. “Whether it’s our fish tank, bubble wall or video games, patients are excited to come in and see what’s new in the office.”
Comfortable, Pain-Free Treatments
All three offices use state-of-the-art technology to help make visits comfortable and pain-free, including digital impressions and X-rays, as well as bitewing images taken from outside the mouth. “We deliver top-notch services, but we do it in a way that puts kids at ease and makes parents feel that their children are well taken care of,” says Dr. Paradiso, a father of one. Dr. Lateiner and Dr. Paradiso graduated from Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. They are both on staff at Morristown Medical Center, where they teach dental residents.
Michael P. Lateiner, DMD
Peter Paradiso, DMD; Tina Park, DDS
Kevin Lehnes, DMD; Blair Sittmann, DMD
Veronica Choi, DDS; Mara Teplitsky, DDS
Camille Fineza, DDS; Neha Shah, DDS
Rupali Shah, DMD
11 Lawrence Rd., Ste. E, Newton • 973-300-0002
218 Ridgedale Ave., Ste. 203, Cedar Knolls • 973-585-6756
Left to right: (back row) Kevin Lehnes, DMD, Michael Lateiner, DMD, Peter Paradiso, DMD (middle row) Tannaz Malekian, DMD, Neha Shah, DDS (front row) Bernadette Lapena, DDS, Tina Park, DDS, Blair Sittmann, DMD, Mara Teplitsky, DDS
Pediatric Dentistry / Orthodontics
The board-certified pediatric dentists of Ocean Pediatric Dental Associates provide quality pediatric and orthodontic care for infants and children. They offer a variety of treatment modalities to optimize safety and improve the patient experience, including in-office sedation and hospital dentistry as needed.
Fun and Exciting Dental Visits
“Dental visits for children can often be stressful. We pride ourselves on making dental visits exciting and fun to lower dental anxiety and fear—it’s the most rewarding part of what we do,” says Dr. Elisa Velazquez, president of the New Jersey Dental Association. With offices in Cream Ridge, Manahawkin and Toms River, the dentists take a team approach and work together to improve the dental lives of their patients. The friendly, empathetic practitioners are highly skilled in all areas of pediatric dental and orthodontic care. “We love being able to live, work and play in the community along with our patients and their families,” Dr. Matt Sones says.
High-Tech, Kid-Friendly Offices
The child-friendly practice exclusively uses digital
radiography to reduce radiation exposure, as well as digital scanning and a soft tissue laser to perform frenectomies with little to no bleeding and shorter recovery times. The orthodontists offer traditional braces as well as Invisalign.
“Our offices are very kid-friendly, which you’ll notice as soon as you walk through the door,” Dr. Velazquez says.
The dentists constantly pursue continuing education to broaden their knowledge of child development and enhance their skills in all of the latest pediatric dental, orthodontic and sedation techniques. “Kids are so much fun! We love having the opportunity to help improve the dental health of a child… which can lead to a great, healthy smile into adulthood,” Dr. Sones says.
Left to right: Eric Reitmeyer, DMD, Victoria Roeder, DDS, Justin Dinowitz, DMD, Elisa Velazquez, DMD, Matthew Sones, DMD, Akriti Gupta, DMD, Eric Segall, DMD, Raha Ghafurian, DMD
Orthodontics
At Rockaway Orthodontics, Dr. Melissa Roberto strives to provide the highest quality orthodontic treatment in a warm, nurturing environment.
“Our practice emphasizes helping families feel comfortable and alleviating their anxieties about everything from treatment to financing,” says the Rockaway-based mother of two.
A Solo Orthodontic Practice
Practicing for more than 15 years, Dr. Roberto prides herself on the level of customer service she provides patients and families. As a solo practitioner, she sees and treats every patient at every appointment, and provides clear treatment plans tailored to each child, including those with special needs.
“We take our patients’ needs seriously and strive to make the treatment experience pleasant, whether that means addressing anxieties, sensory issues or other special needs,” she says. “Our goal is to cater treatment to each patient’s needs.”
Dr. Roberto takes the time to answer questions and listen to concerns from parents, and maintains close contact with families via phone, text and email to ensure continuity of care. “Our practice is committed to making orthodontic visits
stress-free and rewarding for patients and their parents,” she says.
Where Great Smiles Begin
The all-digital practice provides comfortable, efficient treatment utilizing the latest orthodontic technologies, including metal and ceramic braces, Invisalign and interceptive and surgical orthodontics. Rockaway Orthodontics offers interest-free financing and a no down payment option.
Dr. Roberto graduated from Trenton State College, now TCNJ. She earned her DMD and orthodontic specialty certificate at UMDNJ. “I went to dental school because of how much my personal orthodontic experience boosted my confidence as a teenager,” she says. “The expression that comes across our patients’ faces when they see their new smile for the first time is incredibly rewarding.”
Melissa Roberto, DMD
141 US Hwy. 46 West, Ste. 101, Rockaway 973-298-5900
rockawayortho.com
Orthodontics
At Somerset Orthodontic Specialists, Dr. Robert Peterman, Dr. Michael Fogge and their team make patients feel comfortable and confident from their first consultation to the moment treatment is finished and a gorgeous new smile is revealed.
“We take the time to ensure that both patients and their parents understand treatment every step of the way,” Dr. Peterman says.
State-of-the-Art Technology
Board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Peterman and Dr. Fogge offer cutting-edge techniques and technology in their all-digital practice, including elimination of impressions with Itero digital scanning and 3D printing, digital X-rays and Invisalign.
“We use technology to deliver the best treatment possible based on each patient’s individual smile and facial aesthetics,” he says.
Three Convenient Locations
Dr. Peterman and his team recently opened a third location in Montgomery. With early morning and evening
appointments, patients can expect the same exceptional care and experience at each location.
In each kid-friendly office, patients can watch television and take part in the practice’s contests and rewards program. Kids earn wooden nickels for excellent compliance and even good grades to cash in for popular gift cards.
Dr. Peterman earned his DMD from the University of Pennsylvania and continued his dental training at Rutgers University, where he earned a specialty degree in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics and a master’s degree for his research in the field of orthodontics.
“Not only do we get exceptional results for our patients, but we also have a lot of fun,” says Dr. Peterman, a nine-time Favorite Kids’ Doc nominee and father of four. “There’s nothing more fun than being an orthodontist…I get to transform smiles and boost our patients’ confidence, and all while getting to know these unique, talented kids.”
Left to right: Michael Fogge, DDS, Robert Peterman, DMD, MDS
Orthodontics
Drs. Brett Handsman and Dana Silagi provide children, teens and adults with a high quality, energetic orthodontic experience.
Platinum Status
Springfield Orthodontics recently moved to a state-ofthe-art facility with technology such as iTero scanners that create 3-D digital models of teeth and eliminate the need for traditional “goopy” molds. The spacious, fullyrenovated office includes enhanced amenities such as ample parking and private consultation rooms.
The orthodontists are Invisalign Platinum providers (top 3 percent nationwide) and Invisalign Teen specialists, and work alongside a caring, friendly and experienced staff. They’re passionate about giving back to the community through clothing and toy drives, school events and donations. “It’s a great feeling to provide smiles that my patients can be proud of for a lifetime,” Dr. Brett says.
Five-Star Reviews
Springfield Orthodontics has received hundreds of fivestar positive reviews on Google about the practice’s fun, kid-friendly environment and how the doctors handle their
child’s individual needs with care and concern. “There’s nothing better than giving a patient the confidence to smile with pride, especially when they were once self-conscious about their teeth,” he says.
Dr. Brett graduated from the UConn School of Dental Medicine and completed his orthodontic training at Stony Brook University. He’s past president of the Union County Dental Society and the current orthodontic director at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. Dr. Dana graduated from the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine and received her orthodontic training at the University of Maryland.
“There’s no greater compliment than when patients refer their family and friends to us,” says Dr. Brett, a father of two. “We’re proud to be selected as a Favorite Kids’ Doc again—it shows we have developed positive relationships with our patients and their families.”
Brett Handsman, DMD Dana Silagi, DDS 173 Mountain Ave., Springfield 973-379-3803
Left to right: Drs. Brett Handsman and Dana Silagi
Pediatric Dentistry / Dentistry
At State Street Smiles, it’s all about creating positive dental experiences for patients of all ages—it’s not uncommon to find patients and staff dancing and singing in the hallways, and kids look forward to the office’s iPads and ceiling televisions as well as participating in contests to win prizes.
Family-Friendly Dental Experience
The multi-specialty practice of husband-and-wife team Drs. Edward and Dina Jackson includes a general associate, oral surgeon and orthodontist to provide even more services for families under one roof.
“Our families love the convenience of coming in for dental treatment together,” Dr. Dina says. “We start seeing babies as early as two days old for nursing and feeding issues due to lip and tongue ties, and we’ll continue treating our patients throughout adulthood.”
The State Street Smiles team has become known throughout the community for providing exceptional oral healthcare as well as a safe, fun and family-friendly dental experience. Families appreciate the practice’s flexible scheduling and payment options and free on-site parking.
“Our practice is about building relationships; we love seeing
how happy kids are when they leave our office,” says Dr. Eddie, a board-certified pediatric specialist.
Pain-Free Dental Visits
As dentists and parents of three, the Jacksons understand how important it is to keep visits comfortable and pain-free. They use cutting-edge technology like laser dentistry and in-house sedation when necessary with a board-certified anesthesiologist.
The practice focuses on preventive dentistry and early intervention, and offers both in-house virtual oral surgery consultations and orthodontic consultations for free. The dentists recommend scheduling first visits by age one, orthodontic visits by age eight and visits to evaluate impacted wisdom teeth before college.
Edward M. Jackson, DMD
Dina Jackson, DMD
Nitish Gangoli, DMD
Rebecca Stamler, DMD
405 Main St., Hackensack 201-487-7030 • statestreetsmiles.com
STATE STREET SMILES
Left to right: Amanda Albin, DMD, Nitish Gangoli, DMD, Edward M. Jackson, DMD, Dina Jackson, DMD, Rebecca Stamler, DMD
Orthodontics
Thrive Orthodontics has been crafting confident smiles for more than 20 years. The practice blends world-class expertise with a personal touch to provide patients with confident, healthy smiles.
Providing Precise, Predictable Results
Dr. Daniel Akkaway, a NJ’s Favorite Kids’ Doc for the past 12 years, and Dr. Christopher Sohn bring not only Ivy League training but also years of experience and dedication to every patient who walks through their doors. They personally oversee every treatment plan, ensuring that each patient’s journey is efficient, personalized and successful.
A Diamond Plus Invisalign provider, Dr. Akkaway has transformed more than 4,000 smiles. The practice offers a full spectrum of orthodontic treatments, from traditional braces and palate expanders to Invisalign, and cutting-edge technology is an integral part of the treatment process. The use of digital impression scanners allows for more accurate treatment planning and comfortable patient experiences as well as a simulation of final outcomes before treatment even begins.
“Whether you’re a parent seeking care for your child or an adult looking to improve your smile, our team is
equipped with the skills and tools to meet every need,” Dr. Akkaway says.
Helping Children Thrive
The practice fosters a warm, family-friendly atmosphere where parents are actively involved throughout the treatment process. At Thrive, orthodontic care is more than just straightening teeth—it’s about building relationships and creating lasting memories. The practice hosts contests and patient appreciation events throughout the year to add a layer of fun and community involvement to the treatment experience. “I’ve worked extremely hard over the past two decades to learn my craft, and there is nothing more fulfilling than using those skills to give a child the confidence and healthy smile that will help them thrive,” he says.
Daniel Akkaway, DDS
Christopher Sohn, DMD
11 Kiel Ave., Kinnelon • 973-838-7888
1616 N. Union Valley Rd., West Milford • 973-728-7888
Left to right: Christopher Sohn, DMD, Daniel Akkaway, DDS
Pediatric Dentistry
Westfield Pediatric Dental Group has been a trusted name in providing comprehensive pediatric dental care for more than 55 years.
Providing an Exceptional Dental Experience
Whether it’s the parent of a newborn who needs help with nursing or a teenager who needs motivation to improve their oral care, an exceptional dental experience is guaranteed. The compassionate dentists and their team focus on prevention and encourage families to plan their child’s first visit by age one.
Dr. Timothy McCabe practices alongside Drs. Julie Jong, Kelly Walk, Maria Shin and Myra Tariq, who are all boardcertified dentists. The atmosphere is welcoming from the moment patients enter the office, with features including a game room, selfie station, two fish tanks and TVs in the ceiling above each dental chair.
Known for its child-centered approach, the practice creates a calming and welcoming environment for young patients. With a dedicated team of professionals, the practice has built a legacy of providing top-notch dental care, ensuring healthy smiles for generations of children.
The dentists offer laser dentistry, nitrous oxide, oral sedation and in-office general anesthesia.
Healthy Smiles for Generations
A member of the International Association of TongueTie Professionals, Dr. McCabe specializes in caring for newborns, infants and children with lip and tongue tie issues, as well as treating patients with special needs.
Dr. McCabe attended Temple University and completed specialty training at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children. He is honored to now treat the children of his former patients—a true testament to the enduring quality of care provided within his practice. This multi-generational trust reflects the practice’s unwavering commitment to delivering pleasant and comfortable dental experiences.
Timothy McCabe, DMD
Julie Jong, DMD
Kelly Walk, DDS 555 Westfield Ave., Westfield 908-232-1231 kidsandsmiles.com
WESTFIELD PEDIATRIC DENTAL GROUP
Left to right: (back row) Maria Shin, DDS, Timothy McCabe, DMD, Myra Tariq, DMD (front row) Kelly Walk, DDS, Julie Jong, DMD
BANASIAK & NETTUNE ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics
Board-certified orthodontist
Dr. Kenneth Banasiak takes pride in customizing treatment for each individual, focusing on proper jaw function and the aesthetics of perfectly aligned teeth. His personalized, conservative approach and knowledge of the latest technologies allows for reduced treatment times, fewer appointments and outstanding long-term results.
Dr. Banasiak’s Basking Ridge location offers a state-of-the-art, digital patient experience; his office is one of the only fully 3-D practices in the area. Utilizing CBCT X-rays and 3-D scanning and printing, the practice is equipped to evaluate a patient’s airway and joints along with their teeth and
CARTER SMILE, LLC
Pediatric Dentistry / Orthodontics
Dr. Christina R. Carter is a pediatric dentist and orthodontist as well as a certified health coach. She and her team focus on children’s overall health in addition to building beautiful healthy smiles. Dr. Carter is uniquely qualified and enjoys treating special needs patients—especially autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and those with craniofacial differences—and lectures nationally and internationally on the subject. She frequently appears on Sirius Doctor Radio and in magazines.
“I love teaching my patients how easy it is to visit the pediatric dentist, and seeing their confidence grow,” she says.
growth pattern to devise a more accurate treatment plan for even the most complex cases. Dr. Banasiak and his caring, attentive staff share a dedication to providing patient-centered treatment and making each visit a positive experience, an approach applauded in more than 300 five-star Google reviews. “We love building relationships with the families in our community,” he says.
Kenneth Banasiak, DMD
65 South Maple Ave., Basking Ridge 908-766-2444 18 East Main St., Mendham 973-543-6644 newjerseybraces.com
Past president of the Northeastern Society of Orthodontists, Dr. Carter received her DMD from UMDNJ and completed residencies in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics at NYU. She completed a fellowship in cleft, craniofacial and surgical orthodontics at NYU Langone Medical Center’s Institute for Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. She is one of a handful of doctors who is “triple trained” in this unique comprehensive education.
Christina R. Carter, DMD 180 Main St., Madison 973-540-1666 cartersmilellc.com
CHATHAM ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics
Aboard-certified orthodontist, Dr. Barbara Fodero has provided quality orthodontic care for children and adults for more than 20 years. Her practice offers state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based treatment options to provide patients with the best possible results in a warm, friendly environment.
“The most rewarding part of my profession is seeing the transformation in a patient’s smile. It’s fulfilling to improve someone’s selfconfidence,” says the mother of two boys. “I also love building relationships—people come in as patients but leave as friends.”
Dr. Fodero gives back to the community through involvement in local schools,
sponsoring children’s athletic teams and providing complimentary orthodontic services through the nonprofit organization Smiles Change Lives.
A member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Dr. Fodero earned her DDS from the University of Michigan, where she graduated first in her class and later earned her MS in orthodontics. She is committed to continuing education to provide patients with proven and effective treatments using the latest technology.
Barbara Fodero, DDS, MS
33 Main St., Ste. 104, Chatham 973-701-2200 • chathambraces.com
CUOZZO ORTHODONTIC SPECIALISTS
Orthodontics
For three generations, Cuozzo Orthodontic Specialists has created beautiful smiles using patient-centered, conservative treatments for patients of all ages. Dr. Patrick T. Cuozzo, known as “Dr. Pat,” joined his father’s practice in 1997 and continues to uphold the family tradition of demonstrating exceptional orthodontic work. Dr. Cuozzo and his associate Dr. James Dodd treat patients at state-of-the-art offices in Lincroft and Sea Girt. “We minimize the patient’s time in braces by waiting for the right time to start treatment, ultimately improving not only the look of your smile, but also the health and longevity of your teeth,” says Dr. Cuozzo, a clinical professor at the
University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He offers traditional and clear braces, as well as Invisalign®.
Dr. Cuozzo’s practice is one of the few in NJ to offer VATECH PaX-i3D Green CBCT technology, which provides a detailed analysis of the mouth while using a low dose of radiation. His staff has a reputation for professionalism, honesty and compassion, having patients smiling at every visit.
Patrick T. Cuozzo, DDS, PA 4 Swimming River Rd., Lincroft 732-747-3466
526 Washington Blvd., Sea Girt 732-449-5444 • 4StraightTeeth.com
LOEW AND PATEL ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics
Board-certified orthodontists Drs. Darren Loew and Niyati Patel-Parekh provide exceptional, customized care using stateof-the-art technology in a friendly environment where patients become family. Children love the iPads in the reception area and participating in contests to win prizes, while parents appreciate the practice’s 3D printing capabilities and ability to create aligners right in the office.
“I have the best job in the world—I get to do something I love and make people smile every day,” says Dr. Loew, a father of four.
When they’re not creating beautiful smiles, the team is giving to charitable organizations and sponsoring local teams and events. The orthodontists are top Invisalign providers and
treat patients of all ages, sensitivities and special needs. “We’re excited to provide the highest quality orthodontic care and create beautiful smiles in Somerset and Hunterdon counties,” Dr. Patel says.
Patients who mention the New Jersey Family recognition when scheduling a new patient exam will receive a free gift at their appointment.
Aboard-certified dentist, Dr. Amy Schwartz Phillips is committed to teaching children the proper way to take care of their teeth—and that going to the dentist can be fun. The growing practice continues to welcome new team members, and recently moved to a new location.
“We’re thrilled to offer the same quality, comprehensive dental care that our families have grown to expect in a bright, updated and family-friendly space,” says Dr. Phillips, a mother of two. As a third-generation pediatric dentist, Dr. Phillips strives to provide an anxietyfree dental experience for children of all ages and abilities. She also ensures that parents and caregivers fully understand their child’s
dental needs. The practice’s compassionate, friendly staff works hard to create a fun, stressfree environment. The Milestones Pediatric Dentistry team is passionate about building relationships with patients and their families.
“Parents are always pleasantly surprised by how well their child’s visits go with us,” she says. “I’m incredibly proud of our practice and the personal touch we provide.”
Amy Schwartz Phillips, DMD
Chirag B. Patel, DMD 118 North Ave. West, Cranford 908-245-7700 milestonesnj.com
Left to right: James Dodd, DDS, Patrick T. Cuozzo, DDS, PA
Left to right: Drs. Niyati Patel-Parekh, Darren Loew
NUTLEY PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Pediatric Dentistry
Board-certified pediatric dentists
Dr. Kimberly Hollywood and Dr. Katie Buchbinder treat kids ranging from infants to adolescents and children with special needs in a warm, inviting office decorated with “Hollywood Stars” featuring each of her patients. “We want kids to have fun and forget that they’re at a dentist’s office…and we go out of our way to make them feel special,” says Dr. Hollywood, who lives in Nutley. “I’m so happy to be practicing in my hometown—I never feel like I’m working because I love what I do.”
Dr. Hollywood is passionate about building relationships with patients and families, and tailors treatment to each individual child.
She frequently attends continuing education courses to offer the most up-to-date treatments and provide exceptional care for her patients. “We pride ourselves on delivering both personalized treatment and an enjoyable experience for every child who comes into our office,” she says.
Dr. Hollywood earned her DMD at UMDNJ and completed her specialty training in pediatric dentistry at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. She maintains hospital privileges at Morristown Medical Center.
Kimberly Hollywood, DMD
500 Franklin Ave., Nutley 973-667-5507 • nutleypediatricdentistry.com
PEDIATRIC DENTAL ASSOCIATES OF CLINTON
Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Mary Jo McGuire believes every child is a unique individual who deserves a positive dental experience that focuses on his or her changing needs. As a mother of five, she delivers high-quality, specialized dental care in a fun environment.
“Parents appreciate that I ‘get it’ when their child refuses to give up the pacifier or brush their teeth before bed,” Dr. McGuire says.
Her kid-friendly office features iPads in the waiting room and televisions on the ceiling above each treatment chair. “We have fun together, and I make sure my patients leave the office with smiles on
their faces,” she says.
After working as a hygienist in a pediatric dental office for many years, Dr. McGuire graduated from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and attended the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, specializing in pediatric dentistry. She is on staff at Hunterdon Medical Center.
Mary Jo McGuire, DMD 1465 State Hwy. 31 S. Annandale 908-735-6300 clintonkidsdentist.com
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OF UNION
Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Dentistry of Union has been creating positive dental experiences for children of all ages, including children with special needs, for more than four decades. As board certified pediatric dentists, Dr. Mouli and Dr. Roshni believe that good oral habits are formed early in life, and that a beautiful, healthy smile has a significant impact on a child’s development.
The practice’s holistic approach to dental care means that both Dr. Mouli and Dr. Roshni don’t just check for cavities; they examine all aspects of a patient’s daily routine that can affect their dental health.
We understand that every child is unique—after all, that’s the best part about
working with kids! Since dental visits can be a source of anxiety for some children (and their parents), both Dr. Mouli and Dr. Roshni strive to build relationships of trust with families. “We want to help kids work through their fears and give them the tools they need for a lifetime of good oral health,” says Dr. Mouli. Dr. Mouli and Dr. Roshni completed their training in pediatric dentistry from Rutgers School of Dental Medicine.
Left to right: Katie Buchbinder, DMD, Kimberly Hollywood, DMD
Left to right: Mouli Patel, DMD
Roshni Patel, DMD
RIVER VALE ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics
At River Vale Orthodontics, Dr. Adar Finkel offers quality, comprehensive orthodontic services and develops customized treatment plans to help patients smile confidently. The modern practice relies on the latest technology to streamline the patient experience, such as digital impressions that eliminate the need for goopy impressions, as well as features like televisions on the ceilings to make visits fun for kids. Parents are welcome to communicate with office staff via text message. “Our goal is to provide our patients with the best possible orthodontic treatment in the most enjoyable way,” says the mother of three. Dr. Finkel trained at Columbia University in general dentistry before
returning to pursue a specialty in orthodontics. She opts for conservative treatment options whenever possible, and always considers the unique needs of each individual patient.
“Because of my training and background, I’m able to see the bigger picture when determining the best treatment plans for my patients,” she says. “Parents often ask me what I would do if it were my child, and I take that question to heart.”
Adar Finkel, DMD, MS
688 Westwood Ave., Ste. 2, River Vale 201-613-1100 rivervaleorthodontics.com
SMILE WORKS PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Pediatric Dentistry
Imagine pain-free dentistry for your children—with no shots and no stress! At her state-of-the-art office, Dr. Andrea Mann offers patients and their families a fun, comfortable dental experience using high-tech dental lasers without needles, numbing and stress. The practice is child-friendly with interactive iPad games, flat-screen TVs above each treatment chair and fun prizes.
Dr. Mann cares for infants, children and teens with special needs. “I treat each child just as I would treat my own,” says Dr. Mann, a mother of 14-year-old twin girls. For the 16th consecutive year, she’s been
chosen as one of NJ’s Favorite Kids’ Docs for her exceptional patient care.
Board certified, she offers comprehensive dental care, including laughing gas and in-office sedation. She also serves as an attending doctor at Morristown Medical Center, where she teaches pediatric dentistry to dental residents.
Andrea Mann, DMD
150 N. Finley Ave., Ste. 101 Basking Ridge 908-340-4848 smileworksnj.com
SWEET TOOTH PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Pediatric Dentistry
At Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Devina Shah and her team provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere designed to calm the most nervous of patients.
With a focus on prevention and education, Dr. Shah takes a collaborative, teambased approach to dental care by building relationships with patients and their families. “I strive to be on the same page with parents so we can work together for one common goal: the dental health of their child,” she says.
While her brand-new, all-digital office features vintage waiting room games and ceiling TVs in treatment rooms, Dr. Shah’s patients especially enjoy the fact that she brings
her dog to the office with her. “Kids love to play with Bailey and it’s another way to keep them comfortable during their visit,” she says.
A board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Shah has participated in trips to the Dominican Republic, Cambodia and Mexico to provide free dental treatment to children with limited access to care.
“I love being able to mold the way my patients view dental health. My goal is to ensure that kids never have to fear going to the dentist,” she says.
Dr. Addiego is committed to delivering the highest quality care with the most advanced techniques and materials while applying the latest findings from clinical research. The practice offers iTero intraoral scanning to eliminate messy impressions, as well as clear and colored braces, self-ligating brackets and Invisalign. The focus is on each patient’s comfort, goals and needs.
Domenico Addiego, DMD
220 West Rte. 72, Manahawkin • 609-597-4660 620 W. Lacey Rd., Forked River • 609-693-0117 addiegoorthodontics.com
BOSONAC ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics
Thank you to our patients for voting us a NJ Family Favorite Kids’ Doc for the last 16 years! We have provided cuttingedge technology and non-extraction orthodontics for the last 50 years and welcome new patients into our family practice. A top 1% Invisalign Diamond Plus provider, we also use iTero digital scanning, eliminating the need for impressions. Our patients love this technology.
Stephen Bosonac, DDS 979 Raritan Rd., Clark • 732-388-4144 515 Brick Blvd., Brick • 732-920-0888
CENTRAL JERSEY PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY & ORTHODONTICS
Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
We provide exceptional care in a family-based, child-centered modern practice. Our dual specialty allows for the establishment of a “dental home” at an early age with easy transition into orthodontic care. We offer preventive and restorative care, comprehensive orthodontics, sedation and hospital dentistry in a newly remodeled state-of-the-art office.
AESTHETIC DENTAL SOLUTIONS
Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
From dental cleanings to complete smile makeovers, Dr. Kamel goes the extra mile to deliver top quality dental care while ensuring a relaxed, comfortable environment. Dr. Kamel, a Platinum Invisalign provider, utilizes the latest technologies to improve smiles for kids, teens and adults. Dr. Kamel also serves as a clinical assistant professor at Rutgers School of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Archana Devi and Dr. Bernadette Lapena bring over 20 years of pediatric dental experience to a state-of-the-art paperless office with the latest technology (digital radiographs, caries detection camera). Their mission is to provide outstanding dental care with up-to-date clinical skills and to encourage families to develop a dental home in a fun, nurturing, stress-free environment.
Damon System, Traditional Braces, Invisalign, Invisalign Teen, Orthodontics in Conjunction with Orthognathic Surgery, Orthodontics/ Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, Interdisciplinary Orthodontics, Early Orthodontic Intervention when Appropriate by Case.
ALL STAR FAMILY ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics for Children & Adults
All Star Family Orthodontics’ stateof-the-art office helps Dr. Vives and his staff provide the highest standard of care in a fun and friendly environment. Dr. Vives is a Premier Invisalign provider and utilizes other advanced treatments such as lingual braces and self-ligating braces.
Jason Vives, DDS
3331 US Hwy. 9, Old Bridge 732-727-6666 allstarfamilyortho.com
ANTHONY CANNILLA, DMD
Cosmetic, Implant and Family Dentistry
Dr. Cannilla offers high quality, conservative care in a relaxed and modern environment. He cares for parents and children in Montville and provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs treating them like family. He attended the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine and is on staff at Hackensack UMC Mountainside. He’s been voted a NJ Favorite Kids’ Doc for 15 years.
Christopher Overcash, DMD 176 Summerhill Rd., East Brunswick 732-257-5588 kiddent.com
Dr. Chung, and her team of caring professionals, strive to make treatments personalized to your family’s needs. We look forward to working with your family to create beautiful lasting smiles.
Tina S. Chung, DMD, MS, LLC 1005 Clifton Ave., Clifton 973-773-2933 • braceartist.com
Dr. Bradley Entrup treats both kids and their families at two locations in Bergen County. His goal is to provide high quality, comprehensive care, in an environment that promotes positivity and comfort. He strives to make every family feel at home while visiting the office. Dr. Entrup attended dental school at the University of Maryland and lives locally with his wife and son.
Bradley Entrup, DDS 760 Kinderkamack Rd., River Edge 201-261-1522 • vidaldentalassociates.com 327 Bridge Plaza N, Fort Lee 201-366-2434 • infinitydentalwellness.com
GOLDKIND FAMILY ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics
Dr. Goldkind is honored to have been named one of the top orthodontists by the New Jersey Monthly Magazine as well as a NJ Favorite Kids’ Doc for several years. He is highly skilled in the care of his patients and is a trusted and experienced clinician offering the most advanced techniques with particular emphasis in early interceptive orthodontic treatment for the growing child.
Dr. Eric Segall is a board-certified orthodontist who has treated thousands of children and adults using advanced treatment options that are customized to each individual patient. Jackson Orthodontics has received hundreds of 5-star Google reviews for our amazing staff, modern office, exceptional treatment results and customer service. Come see what the rave is all about!
Eric Segall, DMD, MS 186 West Veterans Hwy., Jackson 732-942-8400 jacksonorthodontics.com
NORTH JERSEY DENTAL GROUP, PA
Dentistry
Dr. Weiselberg, a family and cosmetic dentist, emphasizes early intervention and quick, painless visits with her youngest patients to ensure they have a positive experience. A mother herself, Dr. Weiselberg’s mission is ensuring the best oral health for the entire family. Among other honors, Dr. Weiselberg is a NJ Top Dentist, Bergen County Top Dentist and Top Invisalign Provider.
Ali N. Weiselberg, DDS 450 Lewis St., Fort Lee 201-461-4800 northjerseydentalgroup.com
HARTE ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics
A fun family practice that has successfully created thousands of happy smiles. Teamed together, Dr. Doug Harte and Dr. Larry Harte offer a special experience for the patient using the latest technology braces and Invisalign. They specialize in early non-extraction treatment. The office, which has been optimized for infection control, offers flexible hours and consultations are always free.
Douglas Harte, DMD
Lawrence Harte, DDS
100 W. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston • 973-992-7558 6 Apple Tree Ln., Sparta • 973-729-5277 HarteOrthodontics.com
MIDLAND PARK FAMILY DENTISTRY
Dentistry
Midland Park Family Dentistry prides itself on delivering high-quality dentistry. Underpinned by over 33+ years of experience, a trained team, plus an investment in the latest dental technologies, innovations and tools, Drs. Anthony Caramico, Julie James and Bjorn Thorsen are committed to maintaining the extraordinary service their patients know and trust
Anthony Caramico, DMD Julie James, DDS 662 Godwin Ave., Midland Park 201-447-5555 midlandparkfamilydentistry.com
OAKLAND SMILE STATION
Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Dan Allen and his team are committed to their practice’s three principal bedrocks: prevention, superior innovation and extraordinary customer service. Serving Bergen County patients for more than three decades, the practice provides pediatric and adult dentistry care, including an orthodontic department that offers the most progressive treatment options.
Dan Allen, DDS 9 Post Rd., M1-A, Oakland 201-337-6135 oaklandsmilestation.com
HILLSBOROUGH COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL CARE
Dentistry
Dr. Sheth and her team are dedicated to creating outstanding smiles by blending traditional dental services with the most state-of-theart techniques. Our modern facility and warm and friendly staff help create a fun and non-stressful environment for both children and adults. We believe in comprehensive and exceptional dental care creating optimal dental health for all of our patients.
A second-generation orthodontist, Dr. Richard Newman and his team continue to provide a longstanding tradition of excellence to his patients in a family friendly, professional and compassionate environment. An elite Platinum Invisalign provider for more than 21 years, Dr. Newman and his highly skilled team offer orthodontic treatment with the most advanced digital technology.
Richard A. Newman, DMD
431 State Rte. 10, Randolph • 973-366-6804 395 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange • 973-731-5855 newmanortho.com
PELUSO ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics
Dr. Peluso is a boardcertified orthodontist who works closely with each of his patients to create a uniquely individual treatment plan that meets their needs as efficiently as possible. His office offers digital impressions, digital X-rays, state-of-the-art braces and appointments that routinely run on time. Dr. Peluso is a strong advocate for early orthodontic intervention.
Matthew Peluso, DMD, MS 441 Pompton Ave., Cedar Grove 241 Rivervale Rd., Rivervale 973-239-6300 • usabraces.com
PRINCETON PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Andy Chung, who has been in practice for 28 years now, is passionate about preventive dentistry. The father of two is dual trained as a pediatric dentist and dental anesthesiologist. Dr. Chung offers cuttingedge treatments such as laser technology for cavity detection and fillings, cosmetic services like all-white bonded fillings and orthodontics.
Andy Chung, DMD
863 State Rd., Princeton 609-924-0404 drandyprincetonpediatricdentistry.com
THE SMILE STOP PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Pediatric Dentistry
The Smile Stop’s mission is to provide your child with the very best that modern pediatric dentistry has to offer in a warm and caring environment. Dr. Mrunal Parmar has the unique ability to put his patients at ease, allowing for a positive dental experience for both the parent and the child. Our goal is to help your child maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for a lifetime!
Mrunal Parmar, DDS 139A Kinderkamack Rd., Park Ridge 201-391-8516 799 Franklin Ave., Franklin Lakes 201-465-4555 • thesmilestop.com
VEENSTRA FAMILY DENTAL
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
For more than 40 years, Veenstra Family Dental has been treating kids, parents and grandparents in one family-focused practice. Dr. Eric and Dr. Noah use the latest technologies and equipment to provide the most conservative treatment with the highest amount of compassion. “Our goal is to provide the highest quality care, while treating every patient like family.”
Eric Veenstra, DMD
Noah Ruitenberg, DMD
44 Godwin Ave., Ste. 200, Midland Park 201-447-0300 veenstradental.com
RANGEL DENTAL
Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
Our team is committed to making patients of every age feel comfortable and at ease. We consider you family, and are dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy beautiful smile. Our state-of-the-art facility allows us to provide you and your children with comprehensive gentle care. Voted 20142024 NJ Top Dentist. Dr. Rangel is an attending staff member at Morristown Medical Center.
Lisa Rangel, DMD, MAGD
310 Madison Ave., Ste. 201, Morristown 973-292-0001 RangelDental.com
SPARKLE KIDS DENTISTRY
Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Preeti Gupta believes in the philosophy of conservative care to ensure that every child’s smile is protected for life. A graduate of NYU College of Dentistry, she received her pediatric dental training from Brookdale University Teaching Hospital. She is well experienced and regularly performs procedures at Hackensack University Medical Center and Children’s Ambulatory Surgery Center.
Dr. Butler is proud to create beautiful smiles and build relationships that will last a lifetime! He looks forward to meeting with you and your family at his new center-The Smile Institute. Come discover what sets us apart! Our team makes the journey to straight teeth fun and engaging. Soon your child will have both the confidence and health that come from an amazing smile.
John Butler, DMD
340 N. Main St., Manahawkin 609-597-4600 jerseybraces.com
TERRANA ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics
Dr. Terrana is a boardcertified Orthodontist offering personalized care and exceptional customer service. His practice is 100% digital and uses cutting-edge technology, including an iTero scanner that eliminates the need for gooey impressions. Dr. Terrana uses self-ligating braces that get placed digitally on a computer, allowing for precise outcomes and reduced treatment time.
Anthony Terrana, DMD 65 South St., Fl. 2, New Providence 908-838-9220 terranaorthodontics.com
By Arricca Elin SanSone
How to (Really) CONNECT WITH YOUR TEEN
Yes, it’s possible to bond with your teenager and offer them social and emotional support
Remember how cool you thought your parents were when you were a teen? Um, we didn’t think so. It’s no different nowadays, except you’re the parent. It may seem like your teen wants nothing to do with you now, but that’s not exactly the case. “Moodiness and a desire to separate from you are a healthy part of the teen years,” says Charlotte Markey, PhD, professor of psychology at Rutgers University-Camden and author of Adultish: The Body Image Book for Life. “That’s their job as teens. They need to learn to connect outside their family.”
That doesn’t mean they don’t still need you, but how they need you probably looks different from when they were kids. And perceptions can differ between kids and parents: One recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 58.5 percent of teens felt they always or usually received the social and emotional support they needed, while parents thought the number
was much higher.
But that doesn’t necessarily mean parents are out of touch. “It’s just that teens may have a different view of what it feels like to be supported,” says Kelsey Jones, PsyD, psychologist at Cooper University Health Care. “Each child needs and wants support in different ways, and that can be difficult for parents to navigate.”
The good news is that it’s not impossible to bond with your teens. Try these tips, even when your kid is eye-rolling or letting you know “I know” (trust us: this, too, shall pass):
GO EASY ON YOURSELF
“You’ve never parented this child at this stage,” says Jones. “Give yourself some grace. Sometimes we have to figure out how to parent through trial and error. And what one child in the family needs may be different from what other kids in the family need.”
HAVE A CASUAL CONVO
Teens may shut down if you say you’re going to have a “talk,” so make it more spontaneous, like commenting on something you just saw in a movie. The car can be a good place, too, because there’s no eye contact and kids know it’s going to end soon so it’s not going to become a lecture, says Markey. Texting is another great way to communicate, especially if you sometimes have a hard time saying what you want in person.
LET THEM TAKE THE LEAD
It’s tough not to want to jump in and fix things for kids if they come to you with a problem. But when teens are sharing with you, ask, “Do you want me to listen, or do you want me to problem-solve?” You want kids to learn to advocate for themselves, and sometimes they just want to know you’re listening, says Markey.
FIND INDIVIDUAL TIME FOR EACH KID
Your kid needs unstructured downtime with you—preferably alone if you have other kids. It doesn’t have to be a huge commitment. “It can be five to ten minutes a day,” says Jones. With little kids, it can be a story before bed or playing with dolls for a few minutes. With older kids, let them share a social media post or video they like.
LEARN ABOUT THEIR INTERESTS
When commuting, let them play their favorite music or ask what game you’ve heard them playing recently and have them show you how to play it. Or have them teach you how to make a TikTok video. “Sometimes we can connect better by doing an activity together, rather than asking a lot of questions and making it feel like an interrogation,” says Jones.
MAKE FAMILY FUN A PRIORITY
Family game night, making indoor s’mores or movie night are all important rituals that can be special to your family. “We do a Wawa run in my family,” says Markey. “Once in a while, I tell everybody to get in the car, and we head there. It’s cheap, easy and fun.”
How to Find Affordable Therapy
There’s been a strain on mental health services the past few years, but there are still places you can find affordable care. For starters, reach out to your insurance company. You also should consider telehealth services. “It can reduce the barrier of access because you don’t have to drive a distance,” says Jones. “Many teens actually prefer telehealth, too, because they’re used to using technology to communicate.”
Here are some resources to start your search:
• Your pediatrician’s office. They often are familiar with local providers who work well with teens.
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). Many large companies and the military have programs to connect you with providers; many also offer a certain number of free sessions.
• Perform Care of New Jersey offers mental health support for any child within the state of New Jersey, regardless of insurance status. They provide support up to age 21.
• Community Mental Health Centers and Hospital Clinics. If you have Medicaid or an Affordable Care Act plan, you may not be able to see a provider in private practice. But check with hospital clinics, which may take all types of insurance.
• Large healthcare practices such as Bridge to Balance and The Center for Emotional Health, both with various locations throughout NJ, have multiple providers, and also provide telehealth services.
• Consider online therapy platforms such as BetterHelp or Talkspace, which tend to offer lower rates and financial assistance.
KNOW WHEN TO GET HELP
You know your teen best, so if anything feels “off,” seek help. Signs include grades that begin slipping, changes in eating habits, trouble sleeping, refusing to do things they once enjoyed, or hiding out from the rest of the family, says Markey. But keep teens involved in the process, by saying something like, “‘These are some things I’m noticing, and this is what makes me concerned, so you may want to talk to someone who is not me,’” says Jones.
PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES
Perimenopause? Me? YES, IT’S POSSIBLE
Experts weigh in on the symptoms to look for and how to manage them
Mom, you’re in the prime of your life. You should be peaking. So why are you feeling a bit peaked instead? It could be the stress of caretaking, or working, or just feeling a bit off. It happens. Or, it’s also possible that you’re experiencing early signs of “the changes.” We know!
If puberty and menopause are bookends to fertility, perimenopause is the slow wind down until menstruation pauses for a year. Menopause normally occurs between ages 45-55, though it sometimes happens as early as your mid-30s. (It can also be induced by things like chemotherapy and medications.) The exact age is variable, and possibly genetic.
“It’s not like you magically hit an age and go into menopause,” says Jackie Linder, a board-certified nurse midwife with HerMD in Millburn, noting that if your mom went into menopause comparatively early or late, you may, too. Caused by hormonal changes in estrogen and progesterone, the perimenopausal journey is equally variable, lasting from a few months to as long as a decade or more, presenting an array of issues which could be peri or not. It’s confusing, to be sure.
“It’s important that with all these symptoms, we don’t just blame the change,” says Linder, noting the importance of working with practitioners who will treat you as an individual with a unique set of symptoms that can be caused by myriad things.
IDENTIFYING THE CHANGES
According to Jacqueline Saitta, MD, a Ridgewood- and Bayonnebased OB/GYN known for her expertise in women’s hormonal issues, perimenopause tends to hit women just as they are “running the race of life,” juggling demanding jobs with managing kids and aging parents. “They’re having these symptoms and don’t have a label for it,” she says, making it hard to parse life’s challenges from a change of life.
In early perimenopause, changing hormones may cause your periods to become heavier and more painful. As time goes on, they may come more frequently and last longer or come more sporadically
By Jennifer Kantor
and feel more like spotting. Cycle changes can be caused by anything from stress and air travel to new medications and restrictive dieting. If you suspect you may be starting perimenopause, the first thing to do is become more self-aware. “The most important thing is to know thyself,” says Saitta, who recommends tracking symptoms in a journal. Similarly, Nicolette Morgan, a Summit-based pelvic floor occupational therapist, suggests clients keep tabs on ovulation by using a basal body tracker like Natural Cycles or wearable tech like Apple watches and Oura. Both will help communicate changes with your doctor.
Along with cycle fluctuations, women may experience migraines, breast pain, insomnia, irritability, hot flashes, aches and pains, skin texture changes, and weight gain, especially around the midsection. Perimenopause can be tricky to treat, since everyone’s journey is different, and symptoms may come and go with no rhyme or reason, says Saitta. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. It depends on the constellation of symptoms,” she says. Some women specifically request hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a way to manage symptoms—can it? HRT, which can offer relief for some but not all symptoms (for example, it won’t necessarily help shed weight), comes in many forms, including very low estrogen birth control pills which also have the benefit of preventing “oops” pregnancies caused by unpredictable ovulation (women over the age of 40 in the U.S. account for 20 percent of all births). Due to reactions and fluctuating hormones, HRT can also potentially worsen issues (and create new ones), which is why lifestyle changes, self-care, and managing issues medically, if necessary (such as antidepressants or weight loss drugs) are typically recommended first. Wondering what symptoms to look out for?
YOU’RE FEELING HOT, HOT, HOT
One minute you’re fine. The next, a smoldering internal heat spreads across your face, neck and chest while your heart races, skin flushes red, and sweat pools everywhere. Fun. Hot flashes (also known as vasomotor symptoms) can be managed by lifestyle changes like
“It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. It depends on the constellation of symptoms.”
wearing layers, sleeping on cooling sheets, and using misting sprays, as well as using hormones or natural herbs. Once discussed in hushed tones, women are now talking openly on social media about this natural shared experience—which is fantastic. But be wary. Not all information is accurate, so be sure to speak with your doctor before starting any supplements or treatments.
YOU’RE JUST NOT INTO IT
Stress. Exhaustion. Feeling blah. Lots of things can sink one’s sex drive during the peri-period. If your lack of interest is due to discomfort, however, that needs to be addressed ASAP. “Any pain with sex is not normal,” says Morgan. If there’s dryness, a symptom more common in late peri- or post-menopause, an estrogen cream or lubricants can help. “If not, there is a good chance there is tension in the pelvic floor muscles that is impacting the pain,” she says. This happens for many reasons, including tension and pressure caused by abdominal scarring (like C-sections) that worsen as women enter perimenopause.
YOU HAVE CONTROL ISSUES
Though common, new, worsening or returning incontinence (i.e. after giving birth) may signal that reduced estrogen in the body is impacting the tissue integrity. “From my perspective this means that
the muscles may be weaker or tighter and not functioning as well as they were prior to hormonal changes,” says Morgan. A doctor or pelvic floor specialist can help determine the right treatment, from surgery and medication to Botox and physical therapy.
IT’S HARDER TO GET AND STAY FIT
“If you notice that you can’t tolerate as intense of exercise as you were doing before this could be a sign that the hormone changes are affecting muscle endurance,” says Morgan. Although it’s harder to make fitness gains, it’s worth pushing through since exercise (especially weight training) regulates blood sugar, amps energy levels, boosts strength, maintains bone health, fosters mobility, and prevents muscle atrophy caused by reduced estrogen.
WAIT, WHAT WAS I DOING?
Studies have shown women experience cognitive changes (aka brain fog) during perimenopause. Forgetfulness, lack of focus, memory issues, fatigue, and a general feeling of fuzziness can be caused by fluctuating hormones, as well as night sweats, anxiety, aches, insomnia and other sleep disruptors. Good sleep hygiene, managing mental health, and hormone therapy can help clear the cobwebs.
—Jennifer Kantor is a lifestyle writer and mom of two from Maplewood.
Jersey joys that wow! From Santa sightings in Cape May to dazzling light shows and snow tubing getaways. Jolly family events and indoor theme parks to soar, splash and play. It’s one wow after another. Find your wow at visitnj.org.
CONGRESS HALL | CAPE MAY
MERRY & Bright
We’ve rounded up the most festive events in and around New Jersey to get you and the kids into the holiday spirit!
By Jennifer Amato
Adventure Aquarium
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Christmas in Cape May
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
34TH STREET HOLIDAY WINDOW DISPLAYS
34th Street, New York, NY Nov.-Jan.
macys.com/stores/ny/newyork/ heraldsquare_3.html
Pass by the Empire State Building, which celebrates the 21st anniversary of “Elf”; Macy’s Herald Square for its iconic, magical window displays; and Penn Station’s festive decorations.
BANK OF AMERICA WINTER VILLAGE AT BRYANT PARK
Bryant Park, New York City Nov.-Jan. wintervillage.org
This Manhattan park is home to the largest free-admission ice skating rink in NYC. Relax rinkside at The Lodge, where you can get food and drinks while taking in the splendor of the giant Christmas tree. Shop more than 180 vendors selling gifts from around the world. And check out the bumper cars on ice.
BERGEN COUNTY WINTER WONDERLAND
Van Saun County Park, Paramus Dec.-Jan. bergencountywinterwonderland.com
Come for ice skating, carnival games, ice carving and a chance to take pictures with Santa at the North Pole. Tickets give you access to the zoo, carousel and train.
See immersive light displays, animal lanterns and animated light shows at this walk-thru experience that also features entertainment and the Holiday Train. Sensory-friendly events are planned on select nights.
CHRISTKINDLMARKT
PNC Plaza at SteelStacks, Bethlehem, PA Weekends, Nov. 15-Dec. 22 christmascity.org/christkindlmarkt
Also known as Christmas City, the market offers handmade works by artists from all around the country, Käthe Wohlfahrt original nutcrackers and collectibles from Germany, and other Christmas fun.
CHRISTMAS CON
New Jersey Convention Center, Edison Dec. 13-15
thats4entertainment.com
Meet your favorite Christmas movie stars while taking selfies or professional photos. Shop in the vendor area, listen to actors chat during panel discussions and try your hand at festive arts and crafts.
CHRISTMAS IN CAPE MAY
Various locations, Cape May Nov.-Jan.
capemay.com/play/christmas-cape-may
This beloved seaside town is transformed into a Dickens village for the holidays with twinkling gaslights and fragrant green garlands. Go on Santa’s Trolley Ride and take a Christmas tour of the Emlen Physick Estate.
CHRISTMAS FANTASY WITH LIGHTS
Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Twp. Nov. 16-Dec. 30
storybookland.com/christmas
Every night at dusk, Santa will wave his magic wand and light up the theme park. You can meet him after, or take Santa’s Fantasy Flight (known as Jumping Jumbos during the regular season).
CHRISTMAS UNDERWATER
Adventure Aquarium, Camden Nov. 23-Dec. 24
adventureaquarium.com
See underwater lights, spot Scuba Santa and view the World’s Tallest Underwater Christmas Tree. Also planned are Snowtunda (indoor flurries), festive puppet shows and storytimes.
CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
City Hall and LOVE Park, Philadelphia, PA Nov. 23–Dec. 24
philachristmas.com
You’ll feel like you’re in Germany rather than Philly. Traditional wooden booths will be set up with vendors selling holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry and art. There will be authentic German food and drinks, plus a Ferris wheel, carousel and kiddie train ride.
DIDONATO’S MAGICAL HOLIDAY EXPRESS
DiDonato Family Fun Center, Hammonton Select dates, Nov. 16–Dec. 23
didonatofuncenter.com/magical-express
Kids can take a train ride through millions of Christmas lights. You’ll stroll through a holiday village, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, see the elves and visit the toy market. Plus, a free game of bowling is included with your ticket.
This lights display is so epic that the family moved it offsite from their house, and won an episode of The Great Christmas Lights Fight television show last season! The 2024 theme is Glow! To Bed: The Journey Through Time. You’ll go on an adventure on Christmas Eve, seen through the eyes of a child.
HERSHEYPARK CHRISTMAS CANDYLANE
Hershey Park, Hershey, PA
Select dates Nov. 15-Jan. 1
hersheypark.com
Chocolate lovers can enjoy their favorite rides and coasters, a visit with Santa and Hershey characters, and more than 5 million sparkling lights.
HOLIDAY BRICKTACULAR LEGOLAND
New York Resort, Goshen, NY
Select dates, Nov. 16–Jan. 4
legoland.com/new-york
There will be seasonal shows, holiday characters, a tree lighting ceremony with LEGO Santa, LEGO activities and lots of
Explore holiday lights. Kids can explore MINILAND to find LEGO presents.
HOLIDAY IN THE PARK
Six Flags Great Adventure, Jackson Select dates, Nov. 23–Jan. 1 sixflags.com/greatadventure
‘Tis the season for glittering lights, live entertainment, yummy seasonal eats and a festive spin on your favorite rides at New Jersey’s popular amusement park.
HOLIDAY LIGHT SPECTACULAR
Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange Select dates, Nov.-Dec. turtlebackzoo.com
Take a stroll through outdoor light displays, get a photo with Santa, watch ice sculpting demos and, of course, see the animals at this beloved zoo.
HOLIDAY SEASON AT ROCKEFELLER CENTER
Rockefeller Center, NYC Dec. 4–Jan.
rockefellercenter.com/holidays
The twinkling lights on this magnificent Christmas tree will be lit starting December 4. View its beauty while you ice skate or chill in a rinkside chalet. See the beautiful golden angel statues and walk down the block to Saks Fifth Avenue for its light show.
HOLIDAY TRAIN SHOW
New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, NY Nov. 16–Jan. 20
nybg.org/event/holiday-train-show
See model trains zip through a display of more than 190 replicas of New York landmarks, each re-created from natural materials such as birch bark.
HOLIDAY UNDER THE STARS
Shops at Columbus Circle, New York, NY Mid-Nov. to Jan. theshopsatcolumbuscircle.com
This year’s installation will have 300,000 twinkling lights and 44 illuminated stars that create a kaleidoscope of colors. The light show takes place every 30 minutes from 5 pm to midnight.
HOLIDAYS AT JOHNSON’S CORNER FARM
Johnson’s Corner Farm, Medford Nov. 22-Dec. 23
johnsonsfarm.com
Hop on the Christmas Light Show
Hayride that takes the holiday drive-thru to a whole new level. The Light Show on the Lake has thousands of lights. Make a date for Breakfast with Santa.
HOLIDIG DRIVE THRU LIGHT SHOW
Diggerland, West Berlin Select dates, Nov. 15–Jan. 12 diggerlandusa.com
Marvel at the lights, holiday displays and tunnels as you drive through 1.25 miles inside America’s only construction theme park.
KOZIAR’S CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
Bernville, PA
Select dates, Nov. 2-Jan. 4
koziarschristmasvillage.com
There are more than a million lights that illuminate the Koziar farm property, lining everything from the lake to the barns to the walkways. Walk around at your own pace, seeing all of the decorated houses, international Christmas displays, storyboards, train sets and festive gift shops.
LET IT GLOW
Bergen County Zoo, Paramus Thurs.-Sun., Nov. 7-Jan. 12
friendsofbergencountyzoo.org/events
As you walk through the zoo or ride on the
train, you’ll see 30 larger-than-life scenes decorated with animal-themed lanterns.
LIGHT SHOW ON THE LAKE
Historic Smithville, Galloway Nov. 28-Jan. 6
historicsmithville.com
More than 120 Christmas trees decorated with over 50,000 Christmas lights magically float when darkness falls: a show of lights and music is played across Lake Meone.
LIGHTSCAPE
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Brooklyn, NY Nov. 22-Jan. 5
bbg.org/lightscape
This enchanting after-dark experience takes you along an illuminated trail through the architecture of the gardens and water features. New this year is the Ribbon Tunnel.
A LONGWOOD CHRISTMAS
Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square, PA Nov. 22–Jan. 12
longwoodgardens.org
Stroll through floating floral designs, marvel at festive trees and step into an extravagant floral shop. Outside, take in stunning light displays and treehouses. There are a half-million lights across hundreds of acres, plus fountain shows.
Koziar’s Christmas Village
Maccabee Bar
New York Botanical Garden
MACCABEE BAR
Location TBA, New York City Select dates in Dec. maccabeebar.com
A Boston bar owner decided to share her Jewish heritage through a Hanukkahthemed bar in NYC. Think potato latkes, jelly donuts and special cocktails.
MACY’S HOLIDAY SQUARE
Macy’s Herald Square, New York City Nov.-Jan. 3
macys.com/s/holiday-celebrations/holidaysquare
The store’s first-ever holiday market pop-up has 30 shops and food vendors, plus gifts, treats, photo ops and more.
MADE IN PHILADELPHIA HOLIDAY MARKET
Dilworth Park, Philadelphia, PA Nov. 15-Jan. 1 (closed Dec. 25) madeinphila.com
More than 50 local vendors will be set up inside the picturesque white wooden booths, adorned with the glow of Moravian stars.
MAGIC OF LIGHTS
PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel Nov. 22–Jan. 4
magicoflights.com
This drive-thru has more than a mile of light displays. This year’s special attractions include a sparkling Holiday Barbie, supersized Bigfoot Monster Truck and dinos from Prehistoric Christmas. After, park the car near the Holiday Village, where you will see Santa and can go ice skating.
MARIAH CAREY’S BLACK IRISH HOLIDAY BAR
The Pool Club at Virgin Hotels, New York City Nov. 15-Dec. 29
mariahsholidaybar.com
The Queen of Christmas inspires a winter wonderland, complete with a Letters to Mariah station, a lyric wall, and signature drinks based on her Black Irish liqueur.
NEW YEAR’S EVE BALL DROP
Times Square, New York, NY
Dec. 31
timessquarenyc.org
Watch the Swarovski crystal ball drop at midnight from high above Times Square. Watch as celebrities, musicians and TV personalities pass by.
NIGHT OF LIGHTS LIGHT SHOW EXTRAVAGANZA
Creamy Acres Farm, Mullica Hill Select dates, Nov.-Dec. nightoflightshayride.com
The 100-acre dairy farm becomes a Christmas wonderland with sparkling light displays and musical dancing tree light shows that you view from inside your car.
This train ride is a re-creation of the children’s story led by a cast of actors. Passengers are served hot chocolate and a treat by dancing chefs and Santa.
RADIO CITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR
Radio City Music Hall, New York City Nov. 8–Jan. 5 rockettes.com
New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball Drop
This New York City holiday classic starring the Radio City Rockettes - with their infamous kickline - features The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers and a Living Nativity.
SANTA CLAUS TRAIN
Northlandz, Flemington Nov.-Dec.
northlandz.com/santa
The inside of the mini train museum has a holiday vibe, with snow, presents, lights and Christmas trees filling up the displays. You can meet Santa, who will take an outdoor train ride with you on the weekends.
SANTA’S WINTER WONDERLAND
Watermark, 78 South St. at Pier 15, New York Nov. 8-Dec.31
santaswinterwonderlandnyc.com
The whimsical waterfront holiday installation has dining, entertainment, Christmas trees, games, activities, heated glasshouses and lights displays, all with breathtaking views of NYC.
SEA OF LIGHTS HOLIDAY LIGHTS SPECTACULAR
Jenkinson’s Aquarium, Pt. Pleasant
Dec. 7, 14, 21-22, 28
jenkinsons.com/aquarium
The winter wonderland includes treats, crafts, pictures with Santa, games, Diving Santa, and nighttime holiday entertainment. The aquarium, Sweet Shop, gift shop, pavilion and arcade will be open.
SHINE BRIGHT AT HUDSON YARDS
PRESENTED BY WELLS FARGO
Hudson Yards, New York City Nov. 24-Jan.
hudsonyardsnewyork.com
More than 2 million twinkling lights (that’s 115 miles!) and 725 evergreen trees set the stage for ice skating, photos with Santa, holiday shopping, and then Santa’s Secret Speakeasy for adults.
SKYLANDS STADIUM LIGHT SHOW & CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
Skylands Stadium, Augusta
Select dates, Nov.-Dec.
skylandsstadium.com/lightshow
See more than 2 million lights in this drive-thru. In the Christmas Village, take a family photo and stop by the Hot Chocolate Bar and Winter Beer Garden.
TIANYU LIGHTS FESTIVAL
Citi Field, Flushing, Queens, NY
Select dates, Nov. 14-Jan. 12
tianyuculture.us/nyc
The gorgeous light show will integrate traditional Chinese artistry with technology through light sculptures, vibrant displays, and a tale that pulls you into a storybook adventure.
TULIPS: WINTER WONDERLAND
Holland Ridge Farms, Cream Ridge Nov. 30-Dec. 30
hollandridgefarms.com
This mega tulip farm that’s a must-see in the spring will open this winter for a walkthrough of 30,000 illuminated tulips. There will be a winter market, lots of holiday photo activations, Santa’s Workshop, and hot chocolate with stroopwafel.
UNION SQUARE HOLIDAY MARKET
Union Square, New York City Nov. 16-Dec. 24
usqholiday.nyc
The City’s largest Greenmarket transforms for the holiday season, with 150+ vendors selling gifts and goods for
Bryant Park, NYC Northlandz
Tianyu Lights Festival
Six Flags Great Adventure
the season. The local restaurants, retailers and entertainers join in as well.
A VERY FURRY CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
Sesame Place, Langhorne, PA Nov. 16–Jan. 1
sesameplace.com/philadelphia
Sesame Street lights up with millions of twinkling lights and a 30-foot illuminated pixel-based tree that projects animated images during the 1-2-3 Christmas Tree Show. Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and New Year’s Eve celebrations are planned as well.
A hayride brings you to a village of 400,000 lights. Among the attractions are a life-sized gingerbread house, a post office where you write letters to Santa and a giant igloo. New this season is the first and only 4D sleigh ride experience in NJ.
VINTNER WONDERLAND
Renault Winery & Resort, Egg Harbor City
Select dates, Dec.-Jan. renaultwinery.com
The winery grounds are open to families for ice skating, a holiday market, fire pits, live music, and of course wine. You can sponsor a Christmas tree for the Festival of Trees display.
WINTER LIGHT SPECTACULAR
Lehigh Valley Zoo, Schnecksville, PA
Select dates, Nov. 15-Jan. 4
lvzoo.org/wls
This event has 1.2 million sparkling lights and displays. Visitors will find classic holiday scenes, fire pits, hot chocolate and s’mores and live performances from princesses Anna, Elsa, Belle and Cinderella.
WINTER WONDERLAND
ILLUMINATED WALKING TRAIL
Indian Acres Tree Farm, Medford
Select dates, Nov. 22-Dec. 30
indianacrestreefarm.com
Stroll through the woods and pass by snowmen and trees made with upcycled materials from the farm. You’ll see a
fairy garden and a secret gnome village. Waddle past Penguin Igloo Town or fly by Birdhouse Row. There will be a tunnel of lights that snows down on you.
WINTER WONDERLIGHTS
Middlesex County Fairgrounds, East Brunswick Nov. 29-Dec. 31 winterwonderlightshows.com
Drive through 1.5 million animated lights that are synchronized to music from a local radio station. There are sparkling tunnels and winter wonderland scenes. There’s a special tribute to first responders and the U.S. Armed Forces.
YULETIDE
Liberty Hill, Lafayette Hill, PA Nov. 22-Jan. 5 yuletidelibertyhill.com
The holiday festival includes a HighEnd Market Village with over 30 boutique vendors. Ice skate under the stars, listen to live music and see the dazzling lights displays. Santa is around daily for free photos, while Mrs. Claus leads storytime. There is a Ferris wheel and carousel.
Rockefeller Center
Renault Winery
Union Square Holiday Market
Bergen County’s Premier Resource Center Providing Information and Referrals for Individuals, Families, and Professionals
We can help you access information regarding:
• Developmental Disabilities Resources
• Transition Planning Information
• Recreational Programs/Summer Camps
• Mental Health Services
We offer workshops for professionals and parents on a variety of topics related to disabilities, as well as sponsor monthly Parent Support Groups
For a complete list of current workshop offerings, visit http://bcss.bergen.org
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas Select dates Dec. 7-21, times vary
This heartwarming musical is a combination of song, dance and holiday cheer based on the old-fashioned romance of the movie. $37-$45 per person.
BERGEN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood 201-227-1030 bergenpac.org
By Jennifer Amato
The Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays Nov. 17, 7 pm
You won’t believe your eyes as this group performs magic tricks with a holiday twist. $49-$105 per person.
New Jersey Ballet’s Nutcracker Dec. 7-8, 1 pm and 4:30 pm
See Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, the Wooden Soldiers and the Mouse King in this ballet performance. New Jersey Ballet’s tradition blends holiday magic with Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed by the New Jersey Symphony. $35-$65 per person.
CENTENARY STAGE COMPANY
Lackland Performing Arts Center 715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown
908-979-0900 centenarystageco.org
A Christmas Carol Select dates, Nov. 29 – Dec. 15, times vary
This Broadway adaptation of the classic story will be presented as a musical. $20-$29.50 per person.
The Nutcracker Dec. 20, 7 pm; Dec. 21, 12 pm and 5 pm; Dec. 22, 3 pm
This version of the holiday classic stars young dancers from the New Jersey Civic Youth Ballet, Warren County’s only non-profit ballet company, as well as professional dancers from around the
world. $17.50-$30.50 per person.
COUNT BASIE CENTER FOR THE ARTS
99 Monmouth St., Red Bank 732-842-9000 thebasie.org
Elf–The Musical
Nov. 19-24, times vary
Buddy is a young orphan who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag and gets transported to the North Pole. If you’ve seen the movie, you’ll laugh as you watch him find his real family and his true self. $26-$45 per person.
JAY AND LINDA GRUNIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS
1 College Dr., Toms River 732-255-0500 grunincenter.org
A Christmas Carol Dec. 7, 1 pm
Adults $19, children $16.
Broadway for the Holidays 4 Dec. 12-15, 20-22, times vary
Members of the OCC Repertory Theatre Company will celebrate the season by singing a variety of Broadway songs that will put everyone in the holiday spirit. Adults $24, seniors $22.
The Nutcracker
Dec. 14, 1 pm and 4 pm
Presented by The Ballet for Young Audiences. Adults $19, children $16.
THE LEVOY THEATRE
126-130 N. High St., Millville 856-327-6400 levoy.net
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas Nov. 15-17, 21-24, times vary $22-$25 per person.
The Nutcracker Dec. 20, 7 pm
Presented by the Atlantic City Ballet. $35-$48 per person.
KELSEY THEATRE AT MERCER COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
1200 Old Trenton Rd., West Windsor 609-570-3333 kelsey.mccc.edu
The Best Time of the Year: Music and
Memories of Christmas Nov. 29 at 7 pm; Nov. 30; Dec. 1 at 1 pm and 4 pm
The MTM Players present Christmas carols and holiday traditions old and new. After, the fun continues in the lobby with photos with Santa. $20-$22 per person.
‘Twas The Night Before Christmas Dec. 13 at 7 pm; Dec. 14-15 at 1 pm and 4 pm
Clement Moore’s beloved poem is brought to life by dancing reindeer and Santa Claus himself. $14-$16 per person.
White Christmas Sing-Along Dec. 14, 8 pm
Sing Christmas classics while watching the movie musical on screen. There will be audience participation and an ugly Christmas sweater contest. $20-$22 per person.
The Kelsey Holiday Extravaganza Remixed Dec. 20-22, times vary
Off-Centre Stages will put on a concertstyle show with the magic of the season, with everything from the heartwarming melodies of Christmas to the vibrant tunes of Hanukkah. $20-$22 per person.
McCARTER THEATRE CENTER
91 University Pl., Princeton 609-258-2787 mccarter.org
American Repertory Ballet’s
The Nutcracker Nov. 29 – Dec. 1, times vary $35-$65 per person.
A Christmas Carol Dec. 10–29, times vary
Joel McKinnon Miller from “Brooklyn NineNine” reprises his role as Ebenezer Scrooge for the second year. $25-$80 per person.
MAYO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
100 South St., Morristown 973-539-8008 mayoarts.org
The Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays Nov. 16, 3:30 pm and 7:30 pm $44-$99 per person.
A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live On Stage Nov. 29, 2 pm and 5 pm $29-$69 per person.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis Nov. 30, 2 pm and 7:30 pm
The Christmas music of Mannheim Steamroller is accompanied by dazzling light multimedia effects that bring the magic of the holidays to life. $59-$99 per person.
New Jersey Ballet’s Nutcracker Dec. 13–26, times vary
With the New Jersey Symphony. $39-$89 per person.
MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY THEATER
1 Normal Ave., Montclair 973-655-4000 vbs.booktix.com
The Nutcracker
Dec. 16-17, 7:30 pm
Presented by Verona Ballet’s School of Classical Ballet. $30-$40 per person.
Select dates, Nov. 1-17, times vary $32 per person.
A Christmas Carol
Select dates, Nov. 22-Dec. 15, times vary $32 per person.
Frosty & Rudolph
Nov. 9, 16 and 23, at 11 am and 1 pm
Frosty, Rudolph and a group of kids team up to save Christmas. $11.75 per person.
Babes in Toyland
Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and 14, 11 am and 1 pm
Adventure unfolds when Mother Goose characters visit the magical Toyland. $11.75 per person.
NEW JERSEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
1 Center St., Newark 888-466-5722 njpac.org
A Magical Cirque Christmas: A Holiday Variety Show
Dec. 5, 7:30 pm
Acts during this magical acrobatic interpretation of Christmas include a little drummer boy juggling his drumsticks, an aerialist dressed as a tree ornament flying through the sky, acrobatic icicles and trick bicycles, all led by a super jolly ringmaster. $29-$99 per person.
The Hip Hop Nutcracker Dec. 8, 2 pm and 7 pm
MC Kurtis Blow treats your family to an original holiday mashup where Tchaikovsky’s classic story gets remixed with hip hop dance and a ton of surprises. $39-$79 per person.
The Nutcracker Dec. 15, 2 pm and 7 pm
The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine performs the classic. $39-$89 per person.
NEW JERSEY SYMPHONY njsymphony.org
The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Dec. 5 at 7:30 pm Mayo Performing Arts Center, Morristown • Dec. 6 at 7:30 pm Count Basie Center for the Arts, Red Bank • Dec. 7 at 3 pm and 7:30 pm NJPAC, Newark • Dec. 8 at 3 pm State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick
Your kid’s favorite Muppet characters will tell the story of Tiny Tim and Ebenezer Scrooge in a musical fashion. Watch the movie as members of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra play the music of the film. $39-$125 per person.
Mill Ballet School, 46 N. Sugan Rd., New Hope, PA 609-397-7616 roxeyballet.org
The Nutcracker
Select dates, Nov. 30-Dec. 14, times vary
Villa Victoria Theater, 376 W. Upper Ferry Road, Ewing
You can see the special school show children’s matinee on Dec. 6. There is a sensory-friendly version on Dec. 14 at Mill Ballet in New Hope, PA. You can also watch any show virtually. $35-$64.95 per person.
SCOTTISH RITE AUDITORIUM
315 White Horse Pike, Collingswood 856-858-1000, ext. 106 scottishriteauditorium.com
The Nutcracker Nov. 29, 7 pm
Presented by Atlantic City Ballet. $43.50 per person.
SHAKESPEARE THEATRE OF NEW JERSEY
34 Madison Ave., Madison 973-408-5600 shakespearenj.org
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Select dates, Dec. 4-29
The Atlantic City Ballet will get you into the holiday spirit with a Radio Citylike performance that features a blend of contemporary and classical dance to the beat of holiday music. $20-$35 per person.
STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY
15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick 732-246-7469 stnj.org
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Nov. 23 at 10:30 am, 3 pm and 7:30 pm; Nov. 24 at 1 pm and 5:30 pm
You’ll all be hoping that the Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” will decide to give back Christmas to the residents of Whoville. $40-$105 per person.
An Evening With Chevy Chase & National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Dec. 5, 7:30 pm
Celebrate the timeless movie with a special 35th anniversary screening, followed by a conversation with Chevy Chase and his wife Jayni. $45-$205 per person.
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
Dec. 14, 3 pm and 8 pm
Acrobats meet circus acts meet holiday songs in this magical mashup. $39-$99 per person.
The Nutcracker
Dec. 20-22, times vary
This version of the classic features a live orchestra and dancers from the American Repertory Ballet. $39-$69 per person.
STOCKTON UNIVERSITY
PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
101 Vera King Farris Dr., Lot 6, Galloway stockton.universitytickets.com
A Maccabeats Hanukkah
Dec. 8, 2 pm
Singing a cappella, this group of Jewish singers will celebrate Hanukkah through music. $10.80-$22.50 per person.
The Nutcracker by The Atlantic City Ballet
Dec. 13, 7 pm; Dec. 14, 11 am or 3 pm $12-$36 per person.
A Charlie Brown Christmas Tribute Dec. 16, 7:30 pm
Ed Vezinho and the Jim Ward Big Band will play holiday hits inspired by “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” $12-$15 per person.
This is like a good ol’ fashioned holiday special, bringing back Christmas memories through holiday songs, dance numbers and comedy sketches. $15-$20 per person.
The Nutcracker Dec. 21, 7 pm
Presented by the Atlantic City Ballet. $15$35 per person.
STUDIO PLAYERS
14 Alvin Pl., Upper Montclair 973-744-9752
studioplayhouse.org
Fairytale Christmas Carol
Dec. 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm
Your kids will get a kick out of seeing their favorite holiday tales getting the fairy-tale treatment. $12 per person.
SURFLIGHT THEATRE
201 Engleside Ave., Beach Haven
609-492-9477
surflight.org
Miracle on 34th Street
Select dates, Nov. 30-Dec. 15, times vary
Susan needs to answer the question, “Is there really a Santa Claus?” after the Macy’s Santa goes on trial for acting as Kris Kringle. $33-$43 per person.
TWO RIVER THEATER
21 Bridge Ave., Red Bank 732-345-1400 tworivertheater.org
American Repertory Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”
Dec. 7 at 1 pm and 6 pm; Dec. 8 at 1 pm
$32.50-$65 per person.
UNION COUNTY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
1601 Irving St., Rahway 732-499-8226 ucpac.org
New Jersey Ballet’s The Nutcracker: Sensory-Friendly
Dec. 1, 2 pm
$8 per person.
A Rahway Nutcracker
Starring Daphne Lee
Dec. 13, 7 pm
Rahway Dance Theater and Rahway native Daphne Lee—who is a current cast member of Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway—bring a localized performance to the stage. $35-$55 per person.
Hodges & Hodges Productions Presents: A Christmas to Remember
Dec. 14, 7 pm
The McKenzie family is preparing for their favorite time of year when an unexpected event tests their faith. The joyous singing will lift your spirits in a drama that’s designed to uplift the entire family. $40 per person.
By Kelly-Jane Cotter
CITY SPIRITS
Plan a festive day trip to New York City or Philly for the holidays!
Bustling city sidewalks are at their most festive in December, an ideal time for a family day trip to New York City or Philadelphia. New Jersey’s glamorous neighbors have landmarks that will dazzle children of all ages. Plan a day around one or more of these attractions in Manhattan or Philly and inspire a new family tradition.
MANHATTAN
ROCKEFELLER CENTER rockefellercenter.com
No matter how young or old your kids are, you’ll want to start the day in Rockefeller Center, with its towering
Christmas tree and elegant skating rink. You’ll have more elbow room if you can visit on a weekday or after dark, which teens especially will enjoy. Enter from Fifth Avenue to get close to the display of trumpeting angels, or, if you have little kids, enter the less crowded route along Seventh Avenue, between 49th and 50th streets. Save time to browse the nearby American Girl and LEGO stores, not to mention FAO Schwarz, so the kids can find ideas for their letters to Santa.
ST. PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL saintpatrickscathedral.org
The stately 19th-century cathedral, built in the American Gothic Revival style,
attracts visitors all year, but is packed at Christmastime. Edge your way along the left side to reach the life-sized creche, where angels and animal sculptures, including a dog, surround the manger.
BRYANT PARK bryantpark.org
You can skate at Rock Center, of course, but Bryant Park’s rink is more manageable for families. And it’s free! The rink is the centerpiece of the park’s Bank of America Winter Village, where locally made crafts and gifts will appeal to teens who like to shop and where the whole fam can find treats and snacks. Snap a family photo at the base of the Bryant Park Christmas
Rockefeller Center
tree. The littles will love Le Carrousel, a merry-go-round that complements the park’s French Classical style. Bryant Park is between 40th and 42nd streets at Fifth and Sixth avenues, behind the main branch of the New York Public Library, so be sure to visit Patience and Fortitude, the library’s stone lions, who sport wreaths around their necks at Christmastime.
WORLD’S LARGEST MENORAHS + TEA AT THE PLAZA theplazany.com, chabadparkslope.com
The 32-foot-high, gold-colored steel menorah in Grand Army Plaza in Manhattan shares the title of “world’s largest” with another menorah in Brooklyn’s Grand Army Plaza. Stop by either one at sundown during Hanukkah to witness the menorah lighting. The menorah in Manhattan is at Fifth Avenue and 59th Street, across from The Plaza hotel, the setting for Kay Thompson’s “Eloise” storybooks, where a luxurious afternoon tea is served amidst seasonal finery. At the Brooklyn menorah, lightings are accompanied by live music, hot latkes and gifts for children.
DICKENS AT THE MORGAN LIBRARY themorgan.org
Treat your children to a glimpse of Charles Dickens’ most famous story in his own handwriting. The original manuscript of “A Christmas Carol” is displayed every December at The Morgan Library & Museum, 225 Madison Ave. at 36th Street. For even
more Dickensian spirit, the library hosts a Winter Family Fair with strolling musicians, magicians and appearances by Dickens’ characters, including Scrooge himself. Admission to the library is free for children 12 and younger, with a reduced rate for older students.
PHILADELPHIA
WANAMAKER ORGAN
wanamakerorgan.com, macys.com
Macy’s Center City, formerly the Wanamaker department store at 1300 Market St., continues the tradition of its predecessor with holiday light shows and music from the historic Wanamaker organ. Macy’s also displays a Dickens Christmas Village with animated figures, originally from the Strawbridge & Clothier department store. The daily light shows return for the 2024 season on Nov. 29.
WINTER AT DILWORTH PARK
centercityphila.org, visitphilly.com
Much like Bryant Park in New York, Philly’s Dilworth Park offers an open-air skating rink and a holiday market in the heart of Center City. Adjacent to Philly’s gleaming City Hall, Dilworth Park also features a Wintergarden with evergreens and lights, chalet-style cabins, and lots of free family-friendly programming.
LUMINATURE AT PHILADELPHIA ZOO
philadelphiazoo.org
Evenings at the Philadelphia Zoo twinkle during the holiday season, as the LumiNature light display transforms the nation’s first zoo into an Insta-worthy destination. While the animals sleep in their indoor enclosures, the grounds of the zoo feature light tunnels and sculptures, Christmas trees, selfies with Santa, nature-themed displays and performances.
WINTERFEST ON THE DELAWARE delawareriverwaterfront.com, visitphilly.com
Bundle up the kids and head to Penn’s Landing, where the cold wind off the Delaware is tempered by the coziness of Winterfest. An ice rink, a Ferris wheel, boardwalk games, fire pits, heated cabins, and a majestic Christmas tree add warmth to the riverfront.
KWANZAA AT THE AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM aampmuseum.org
The African American Museum, at 701 Arch St., celebrates Kwanzaa with programming that reflects the seven principles of the holiday. Music, dance, storytelling, kinara lightings and craft sessions are among the offerings that celebrate unity and community.
—Kelly-Jane Cotter is a longtime journalist in Central Jersey who made a point of raising her daughter to love NYC. She loves Philly, too.
Grand Army Plaza
Dilworth Park
African American Museum
Bryant Park
Macy’s Center City
MOUNTAIN CREEK
CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN
SHAWNEE MOUNTAIN
JACK FROST / BIG BOULDER SKI RESORT
MOUNT PETER
SNOWBOUND
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, these ski spots offer a variety of terrains for everyone in your crew (plus lessons for newbies).
CAMELBACK
MOUNTAIN RESORT
301 Resort Dr., Tannersville, PA 570-629-1661
camelbackresort.com
This resort is open 365 days a year for indoor and outdoor adventures, like the high-speed lift, terrain park, one of the country’s largest snowtubing parks, a mountain coaster and zip lines. Camelback recently introduced SkiLynx via its app, so you can live-track your total trails, miles and vertical feet, plus view real-time lift wait times. The Ski and Ride Academy is the place to learn to ski or snowboard.
HOLIDAY MOUNTAIN SKI AND FUN PARK
99 Holiday Mountain Rd., Monticello, NY 845-796-3161
skiholidaymtn.com
Come to ski, snowboard or go tubing, or join the ski racing program. This mountain has seven slopes and trails for varying skill levels. All are lit up for night skiing and riding. There’s a Magic Carpet lift for those new to the sport. The Fun Park has go-karts, a rock climbing wall, bumper cars and an arcade.
JACK FROST/BIG BOULDER SKI RESORT
434 Jack Frost Mountain Rd., White Haven, PA 570-443-8425 jfbb.com
Located in the Pocono Mountains, Jack Frost is a companion to Big Boulder Ski Area. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran on the slopes, you can ski both mountains on the same lift ticket. As the sun sets across Lake Harmony, Big Boulder is lit up after 3 pm so you can ski at night under the lights for a different experience.
CAMPGAW MOUNTAIN
200 Campgaw Rd., Mahwah, NJ 201-327-7800
skicampgaw.com
Billed as a learn-to-ski/ snowboard along with tubing destination, Campgaw has terrains for all ages and abilities. Experienced skiers can sign up for a Snow Sports Academy program to improve their starting, stopping and balance techniques. Programs are broken into groups for kids ages 4-6 and 7 and older.
HUNTER MOUNTAIN
64 Klein Ave., Hunter, NY 518-263-4223
huntermtn.com
From steep slopes to a variety of terrains, Hunter has options for skiers of different levels. You can go skiing or snowboarding on multiple trails, or try out the terrain park where more experienced mountain lovers can perform their tricks. Check out the mountain cam that broadcasts live from the mountainside for a preview of what’s to come.
Mountain Creek has 167 acres of skiing and snowboarding, making it NJ’s largest ski resort —and it’s also the freshest, due to a recent $5 million investment (that’s 1,000 snowmaking machines!) in fully automated snowmaking. The four peaks offer terrain for all levels, but if you aren’t comfortable on your own, Sno-Go rentals offer a combination ski-bike for more stability.
By Jennifer Amato
MOUNT PETER
1 Old Mt. Peter Rd., Warwick, NY 845-986-4940
mtpeter.com
Mount Peter is the oldest operating ski area in New York State. The newly expanded Snow Basin Learning Center with its free beginner Ski and Snowboard School is also renowned for its top-notch racing and development programs. Valley View Learning Center has three progressive trails, each with its own carpet lift. There’s also a section for those who want to go snowtubing.
SHAWNEE MOUNTAIN
401 Hollow Rd., East Stroudsburg, PA 570-421-7231 shawneemt.com
Experience 23 slopes and trails, two terrain parks, night skiing and snow tubing. Mini Monster Mountain is for kids up to age 8 who don’t want to ski or board; instead, they can play with puzzle blocks, climb, practice on gliders and head to the snowball wall. Beginner ski lessons include Learn to Turn and Learn to Turn Better options at any level.
DECEMBER
Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa fun await!
Nov. 24
Swedish Christmas Fair
Aside from Swedish handicrafts and spiced Glogg, the Lucia pageant with choir singing is the highlight of the Swedish traditions, hosted at The Commonwealth Club in Upper Montclair. newjersey.swea.org
Dec. 7
Asbury Park Santa Run
You get your very own Santa suit when you register so you can run along the Jersey Shore in Asbury Park with an army of other Clauses. There’s an after party with Brian Kirk & The Jirks. apsantarun.com
Dec. 7
Christmas in the Pines
The annual holiday event at Harry Wright Lake in Manchester includes a craft market, food vendors, performances, fire pits, hot cocoa and s’mores, and a special visit by Santa. oceancountytourism.com
Dec. 7, 14, 21
Dickens Village
Through Jan. 5, 2025
Festival of Trees
A must-see tradition in Princeton, Morven Museum & Garden boasts a beautiful collection of Christmas trees, mantels and galleries decorated by local groups. You can vote for your favorite, too. morven.org
Dec. 6
Downtown for the Holidays
Stroll East Ridgewood Avenue in Ridgewood to see the holiday windows, find the Grinch, listen to live music, take a picture with Santa and watch the tree lighting. ridgewoodchamber.com
Dec. 7
Hometown
Holiday
South Orange’s downtown is filled with holiday cheer, including crafts, games, letter writing to Santa, pictures with Mr. Claus and a tree lighting ceremony. southorangedowntown.org
Maplewood turns into a scene out of Charles Dickens’ classic story, “A Christmas Carol.” Peek into the mini houses arranged in Ricalton Square to see fireplaces, stockings and antique toys. There’ll be music, a tree and menorah lighting, horse and wagon rides, kids’ crafts and a petting farm on select dates. maplewoodvillagenj.com
Dec. 7
Wassail Day
The paths along Historic Cold Spring Village in Cape May will come alive with the sights and sounds of the holidays. Go into the buildings for live music, hot beverages, holiday treats and a history lesson. Pop into the Country Store to meet Father Christmas. hcsv.org
Nov. 29 and Dec. 6-7
Colonial Christmas
The historic Jacobus Vanderveer House & Museum in Bedminster has Christmas traditions dating back to the 1770s. Three days of celebrating include a tree lighting, music, period decorations, holiday shopping, pony rides, visits with Santa and gingerbread workshops. visitsomersetnj.org
December 21
Reindeer Run 5K
Bring the kids to Renault Winery & Resort in Egg Harbor Twp. for the Kids 1 Mile Fun Run, and the older elves in the group can sip on wine after the Reindeer Run 5K. renaultwinery.com
Nov. 30 and Dec. 1
Holiday Dickens Fest
Riddlesbrood Touring Theatre
For more events near you or to add your own, go to njfamily.com/calendar
All events are subject to cancellation so call ahead before heading out.
Company brings the spirit of Christmas to Historic Smithville with a two-day outdoor musical of “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens. There will be lots of singing along with the performers. Check out the light show around the lake, and The Magic Talking Christmas Tree on select dates. historicsmithville.com
Dec.
21
Kwanzaa Family Festival
The free, family-friendly celebration is a full day of uplifting programs based on the seven principles of Kwanzaa. This coincides with the Kwanzaa Marketplace that takes over two floors of NJPAC in Newark. njpac.org
Select dates, Nov.-Dec. Holiday Lights
Hayride
Bundle up in a blanket because Christmas time at Norz Hill Farm in Hillsborough includes a ride through the farm, where you will see interactive displays, check out the animals and stop by Santa’s cornfield office. When you get back to the farmhouse you can sit by the fire with a mug of hot chocolate. norzhillfarm.com
Select dates, Dec. 1-22
Christmas Festival
Dec. 28-29
PAW Patrol Live! A Mighty Adventure
Supervillain scientist Victoria Vance wants the spotlight on her, but it’s up to the Mighty Pups to outsmart her powers. The new stage show at NJPAC in Newark is based off the hit movie. njpac.org
Dec. 7
Victorian House Tour
The festival began in 1913 with a single star atop one tree; now, the tradition in the Morristown Green includes a visit to Santa’s House, holiday music and crafts, a vintagestyle oversized rocking horse, ice sculpture demos and rides along the electric trail. morristown-nj.org/event/christmasfestival
Dec. 14
Sonic Symphony
This immersive experience at NJPAC in Newark will have fans of Sonic the Hedgehog reliving the game, from classic 8-bit and 16bit tunes to rock bands and EDM. njpac.org
You’ll feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie as you wander through Ocean Grove to see the beautiful Victorian homes and inns that will be decorated for Christmas. Expect caroling, holiday exhibits and gift boutiques. oceangrovenj.com/events
Dec. 7-8
Renaissance Christmas
The Shoppes at Dragon Village invite the Mystic Realms Theater Club to perform skits and musical numbers during this weekend festival in Bridgeton. The king and queen, along with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, will make their rounds. There will be vendors, merchants and food trucks. shoppesatdragonvillage.com
Ring in the New Year!
Welcome 2025 at these New Year’s Eve celebrations in NJ. Count down to midnight aboard the New Year’s Eve Signature Dinner Cruise, which leaves from Lincoln Harbor Marina in Weehawken and tours the Hudson and East rivers. cityexperiences.com On NYE, Downtown Morristown becomes a stage. Everyone is invited to an alcohol- and substance-free celebration of arts and culture that will feature more than 70 performances, a film festival and a countdown to midnight with fireworks. firstnightmorris.org Ocean City holds its own First Night event, where more than 70 events take place across 20 venues; don’t sleep in on New Year’s Day, because you can bring the family to First Day At The Beach, too. firstnightocnj.com Although Vienna is a few hours ahead of us, their singers, dancers and orchestra will be stateside to ring in the new year. The State Theatre New Jersey, in New Brunswick, offers up its annual showing of “Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert” that’s a treat for all ages. stnj.org Catch The Rave-Ons perform at the Surflight Theatre in Beach Haven, where their new show is based on Dick Clark’s Countdown to the ‘50s and ‘60s. surflight.org The Jersey Shore Running Club holds a New Year’s Eve Twilight Run in Manasquan, so you can end the year working off holiday calories along a 2-mile route. jsrc.org/race-calendar Dave & Buster’s in Atlantic City holds a Late Night New Year’s Eve celebration so you and the kids can explore the arcade for hours on end. daveandbusters.com Close out the 2024 season of Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson with a special NYE party, complete with entertainment, lots of glittering lights, seasonal treats and fireworks. sixflags.com/greatadventure/events Casino Pier in Seaside Heights holds an early celebration for kids, including a magic show, dance party, balloon drop and fireworks - all by 5 pm. casinopiernj.com
The New Jersey Festival Orchestra presents “Broadway Through the Ages” in Westfield on NYE and in Basking Ridge on New Year’s Day to start off the year with favorites from America’s Great Songbook. njfestivalorchestra.org
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CAMP COUNTDOWN
What to consider when looking for a summer camp for your kid
It’s never too early to start thinking about summer camp. With so many options to consider, it’s hard to know where to begin. Here are some things to consider as you search for the right fit.
START EARLY
December is a good time to begin your search for next summer or, if you’re thinking about sleepaway camp, 2026. “Begin your process by thinking about what you’re trying to achieve,” says Renee Flax, director of Camper Placement for the American Camp Association, NY & NJ. If it’s a day camp, will you need transportation provided by the camp? Does the camp offer early or late hours? If the kids are at sleepaway, how far is close enough and what is the length of the program? Think about activities your kids will like, traditional vs. elective programs, and of course, cost.
DETERMINE IF THEY’RE READY
It can be hard to know when your kid is ready for an overnight camp experience, but make sure you aren’t sending your child away just because other parents are, Flax says.
“Look at your child objectively and assess whether or not they are emotionally ready to go to camp and if they can take care of their own personal needs—shower by themselves, make their bed, pick out
By Jennifer Amato
their clothes for the day, follow directions and know when to ask for help if they need it. If you’re unsure of their ability to do these things successfully, then you may want to wait one more year before sending them to [overnight] camp,” she says.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
Talk to friends, look at camp websites, go to camp fairs, schedule tours—and call camp directors to ask about the camp’s culture and what a typical day is like.
“Ask [the director] questions, describe your child to them and then ask them whether or not they think your family is a good fit. Camp directors are very honest with parents. Like you, they want their campers to be happy!” Flax says.
She also recommends calling the American Camp Association, NY & NJ to help with your search.
Make sure you’re honest with yourself about your child’s needs and wants to make sure everyone feels safe, comfortable and happy. “Don’t paint a picture of your child that is not realistic or accurate. The camp you select must know who your child truly is,” Flax says. “And remember—you’re not picking the camp for you. Your child is the one going to camp—so make sure you pick a camp that best fits their needs.”
Healing Journey
CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: JEN SALVATO DOKTORSKI, JEN WITH HER HUSBAND MIKE AND DAUGHTER CARLEY AT RAMAPO VALLEY COUNTY RESERVATION, THE AUTHOR’S LATEST BOOK COVER
By Dina El Nabli
Award-winning author and Milltown mom Jennifer Salvato Doktorski has always loved the Jersey Shore. Her memories there inspired a series of young adult novels set at the beach. In her new book (out January 21st) Finding Normal, Doktorski focuses on a more serious issue—eating disorders. We asked her about the biggest misconceptions surrounding eating disorders, the lessons teens can take away from the main characters’ journey, how she got her start as a writer and more.
New Jersey Family: What inspired you to write Finding Normal?
Jennifer Salvato Doktorski: There are five towns in the U.S. named Normal and I liked the idea of putting two teens, who’ve been told they’re anything but normal, in an old Chevy Impala and sending them on a road trip to find those towns. I also wanted to put a face to eating disorders, one of the deadliest and most misunderstood mental illnesses. It was my hope that by spending time on the road with Gemma and Lucas— and the baby raccoon they find along the way—readers would come to understand that they didn’t choose to suffer from anorexia nervosa and bulimia, and they are not defined by their diseases. They want what so many of us want, to feel normal, accepted, and worthy of love.
NJF: What’s the biggest misconception about eating disorders?
JD: That eating disorders only affect a certain type of person—White women and girls who are middle or upper class. Eating disorders affect people of every age, race, gender, sex, body type and sexual orientation. The other big misconception is that people develop this deadly mental illness by choice, which is unfair to those battling a very serious disease.
NJF: You’ve also written Young Adult novels set at the Jersey Shore. Tell us about those.
JD: These books are my love letters to the Jersey Shore. The Summer After You & Me is a story of love, acceptance, and rebuilding in the wake of Superstorm Sandy. August and Everything After, which borrows its name from one of my all-time favorite albums, is about the healing power of music and how two people, both reeling from loss, come together one August to form a band and reset their lives.
NJF: How did you first get into writing and when did you know you wanted to write fiction?
JD: I started off as a journalist and my first paid gig was writing obituaries for the Herald-News in Passaic. From there I went on to several other jobs in communications. It wasn’t until I became a full-time mom that I had the courage to write fiction.
NJF: What do you love most about living in New Jersey?
JD: The people. Jersey people are my kind of people.
dec 5 a magical cirque christmas
for the parents
An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee Dec 12 @ 7:30PM
Christmas with CeCe Winans
Dec 20 @ 8PM Dec 21 @ 8PM
Boyz II Men Jan 15 @ 8PM
with MC Kurtis Blow Sun, Dec 8 @ 2 & 7PM
NJPAC’s original holiday mash-up remixes Tchaikovsky’s ballet with supercharged hip hop dance (and some surprises)! nutcracker the hip hop
Fri, Dec 13 @ 7:30PM
Get in the holiday spirit! Join us for a Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin following a screening of Home Alone. with macaulay culkin a nostalgic night
The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine Sun, Dec 15 @ 2 & 7PM
Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, The Nutcracker is sure to become your favorite Christmas tradition. the nutcracker
Sat, Dec 28 @ 10AM, 2PM & 6PM Sun, Dec 29 @ 10AM & 2PM
With bark-loads of interactive fun, PAW Patrol Live! A Mighty Adventure will leave tails wagging and kids cheering.
Boyz II Men
The American Song series at NJPAC is presented, in part, through the generous support of the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, the David S. Steiner and Sylvia Steiner Charitable Trust, the Joan and Allen Bildner Family Fund, the Smart Family Foundation/David S. Stone, Esq., Stone & Magnanini Generous support for The Hip Hop Nutcracker is provided by the Smart Family Foundation/ David S. Stone, Esq., Stone & Magnanini
