Rockland Parent
NYMETROPARENTS.COM Helping Parents Make Better Decisions
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020
THINGS TO DO IN NYC RIGHT NOW!
School Year Success
Does your child need a tutor? g Helping remote-learners focus and more g
COLD, FLU, OR
COVID?
How to tell the difference and stay as safe as possible
Experience the Crystal Run difference | Primary & Specialty care Visit crystalrunhealthcare.com/yourhealth for more information on Coronavirus screening or to schedule an appointment.
COVID-19 challenged us. But it didn’t stop us. Crystal Run Healthcare has not missed a single day of patient care this year.
2020 has been unforgettable. At Crystal Run Healthcare we have been so moved by the courage of our patients and the extraordinary compassion demonstrated by our entire team. We have been caring for each of you as a whole person, addressing mental as well as physical health, calming anxieties, optimizing wellness, and controlling chronic conditions. As new needs emerge, we rise to meet the challenge. Whatever we face, we are truly in this together. At Crystal Run Healthcare our mission is clear‌
we want you healthy.
PALISADES CENTER
YOUR DESTINATION FOR FAMILY FUN
Palisades Center offers over 225 stores, 16 sit-down restaurants, a bowling alley, ice rink, the world’s tallest indoor ropes course and more!
Make family memories here!
Visit PalisadesCenter.com or call 845-348-1000 RocklandParent
3
inside
october/ november 2020 14 School Year Success Whether your kids are at home, in school, or a mix, ensure they stay on track.
16 Safe & Spooky Celebrations How do we prepare our families for a safe and fun Halloween this year?
24 Math & Reading Apps Fun (and educational) apps that will keep your kids learning after the school day ents
26 Prepping for Flu Season The differences between a cold, the flu, and COVID-19—and how stay as safe as possible
28 Rethinking Turkey Day Some tips for celebrating Thanksgiving safely
COLUMNS 6 Editor’s Note 9 News: What’s Happening in the Community
14
12 Baby: The Perfect Pediatrician 13 Advice: Ask DadandBuried 30 Last Word: Having the Kids at Home
THINGS TO DO 18 Halloween Events 20 Your 2020 NYC Bucket List
RESOURCES 25 Parenting Resources
16
28
26
27 Meet the Health Care Professional 29 Advertisers’ Index
NYMetroParents
Helping Parents Make Better Decisions facebook.com/nymetroparents
@NYMetroParents
Visit NYMETROPARENTS.COM for family activities updated daily and more than 2,000 parenting articles!
We’ve got you covered. Need health insurance? Talk with an MVP Health Care® representative about health insurance options for you and your family. If your income has changed, you may qualify for a free or low-cost plan!
You can enroll at any time!
Call 1-844-522-1116 (TTY: 1-800-662-1220) Monday–Friday, 8 am–6 pm
To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, and Qualified Health Plans through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777 MVP Health Plan, Inc. complies with Federal civil rights laws. MVP Health Plan, Inc. does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-800-852-7826 (TTY: 1-800-662-1220). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-800-852-7826 (TTY: 1-800-662-1220). This information is available in other formats for members with special needs or who speak a language other than English. Please call us at 1-800-852-7826 (TTY/TTD: 1-800-662-1220).
Havestraw, Rockland Parent 7.3 x 9.6 due Aug 5
RocklandParent
5
editor’s note
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020
NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com
EDITORIAL
A Full Season
T
hough it doesn’t look like the fall of years past, it’s still our favorite season. Pumpkins are being picked, hot apple cider is being sipped, and school (however it looks for your children) is in full swing. It may be a truly unique school year, but you can help your kids make the most of it (p. 14). Itching to get the family out of the house? Find a curated a list of places in NYC your family can visit right now (all with precautions to keep you safe) on p. 20. Think of it as your end-ofyear bucket list—or perhaps a starting point for planning your family’s holiday staycation. Finally, cold and flu season is upon us, but what does that mean in the midst of a pandemic? Read what you need to know on p. 26. Stay healthy and safe! Katelin Walling Editorial Director Helping Parents Make Better Decisions
Keep in Touch: @nymetroparents nymetroparents.com editor@nymetroparents.com
6
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling PRODUCTION EDITOR: Melissa Wickes EDITORS-AT-LARGE: Shara Levine • Shana Liebman • Alice Tank
ADVERTISING SALES
To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800 Jeunesse Jackson • Lauren Alperin Meirowitz Queens Parent • Annene Guertin • 718-878-4860 Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca • Lauren Anchin • Meredith Perl • Merrill Sugarman Brooklyn Parent • Selene Rodriguez • 718-878-4860 Rockland Parent • Jim Russo • 845-848-8021 Long Island Parent 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman • Lisa Herlihy STATEN ISLAND PARENT 718-494-1932 EDITOR/PUBLISHER: Roselle Farina-Hecht
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR | OPERATIONS: Ray Winn DIRECTOR | TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro ASST. MARKETING MANAGER: Anastasiya Borunova
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR | PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Jiyon Son
FINANCE CFO: David Friedman CREDIT MANAGER: Rosa Meinhofer
CEO: David L. Miller 1501 Broadway, 12th Floor, New York, NY 10036 Phone: 212-315-0800 • Fax: 212-271-2239
BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT, BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN•ROCKLAND PARENT, STATEN ISLAND PARENT, and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2020, Davler Media Group, LLC. No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.
RocklandParent
7
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS ARE ESSENTIAL. Academy of the Holy Angels made a perfect pivot to online learning this spring, and continues to grow and succeed in the new school year. Discover AHA’s Growth Mindset approach to learning Experience intellectual, spiritual, and social growth
VIRTUAL INFO SESSIONS
Wed, October 28th Wed, November 11th
Be yourself and make lifelong friendships in a safe environment 3 1 5 H i l l s i d e A v e n u e , d e m A r e s t, n e w J e r s e y 0 7 6 2 7
|
pHone 201.768.7161
Empowering the young women the world needs most.
www.holyangels.org/admissions SponSored by the School SiSterS of notre dame
Rockland Parent ad_Info Session 2020.indd 1
10/14/20 12:23 PM
PROVIDING KID APPROVED DENTAL CARE!
GYMNASTICS & FITNESS 10 months to 12 years
Call about Morning Classes & one-on-one Private Classes!
Ask about payment plan options! Marita Smith, DDS Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
PRE SCHOOL CLASSES
Specializing in Dental Care for Children of All Ages State of the Art Dental Care & Facility
(PARENT PARTICIPATION) TODDLER GYM: (10 months - 24 months)
(3-1/2 yrs. - 5 yrs. Old)
ROMP & ROLL:
SPECIAL CLASSES
(2 yrs. - 3 yrs. Old)
Evening & Saturday Hours Available
(4 yrs. - 10 yrs. Old)
FUN & FIT GYMNASTICS
24 Hour Emergency Service Available
KINDERGYM (5-6 YRS.)
Most Dental Insurances Accepted
SCHOOL AGE GYMNASTICS
Nitrous Oxide available for children when necessary Se Habla Espanol
Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry 5C Medical Park Drive, Pomona, NY 10970 drsmith@smithslittlesmiles.com
8
(845) 414-9626
www.smithslittlesmiles.com
facebook.com/smithslittlesmilespd
(WITHOUT PARENTS) BUSY BEE/TUMBLE BEE
@smithslittlesmiles
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
401 Market Street Nanuet Mall South Nanuet, NY
845-623-2553
“
Our 35th School Year!
(6-12 YRS.)
Our family loves Tumble-bee!! Our two daughters have been attending for a few years and they always look forward to their gymnastics class. The place is so clean and the owner and the staff are so nice! Kristen O, New City mom
”
www.Tumble-beegymnastics.com
news
Frankie
Luke
Mae Leni
TO THE WINNERS!! Three families won Chromebooks from B&H Photo as part of the First Day of School Photo Contest. As part of the First Day of School Photo Contest, we asked to see your kids’ photos (whether they’re home schooling, learning remotely full time, or are following a blended learning model), and you, dear readers, delivered! More than 250 of you submitted your kid’s first day of school photo for a chance to win 1 of 3 Chromebooks from our partner B&H Photo—and the winners have been selected! Frankie, a first-grader from Suffolk County, took home Fan Favorite with more than 1,300 votes! Luke, a sixth-grader from Nassau County, and Westchester County sisters Mae (fourth grade) and Leni (second grade) were selected as Editors’ Picks. Find out more details at nymetroparents.com/contest.
RocklandParent
9
Courtesy Suzanne Cohen
news
Find the Perfect Pumpkin Whether you’re looking for a pumpkin to carve into a jack-o-lantern for your stoop or a couple of little guys to decorate inside, find a pumpkin patch to pick your own at nymetroparents.com/ pumpkins.
Let’s Get Carving! Carving a pumpkin with your kids for Halloween but not sure where to start? The pros share tips for carving jack-o’-lanterns with kids (including tips for making your pumpkins last) at nymetroparents.com/carve.
No-Carve Ideas Let’s face it, Halloween just isn’t Halloween without jack-o’-lanterns. But with little kids, carving pumpkins might be on your “to avoid” list. You could break out the paints and paint brushes, or you could go for something a little out of the ordinary. Find no-carve pumpkin ideas at nymetroparents.com/no-carve.
Submit Your Masterpiece! After your kids carve or decorate their pumpkins, enter a photo for a chance to win a family fun day at Palisades Center at nymetroparents. com/pumpkin-contest. 10
Suzanne Cohen, the Manhattan mom behind @GothamLove, with her children
A Love Letter to NYC
S
uzanne Cohen is a NYC photographer who owns her own company. A few years ago, however, as the Instagram craze started to hit, her husband, Adam Cohen, of DadaRocks.com, convinced her to start a blog GothamLove.com (and an IG account). She never looked back. “I fell in love with the entire platform and the idea of showing your daily life through powerful images was right up my alley!” As a mom of three in Manhattan, discovering new content is easy in the city that never sleeps. Plus, her three kids are a source of endless inspiration.
What do you think is a parent’s hardest job? I would have to say discipline. My husband and I are constantly doing our best to raise good and happy humans and make sure our kids treat people with fairness and kindness. So, sometimes we are not the best disciplinarians. We usually let most little things slide and focus on the big picture.
What is the best thing about raising kids in New York City? There are too many things to name and that is why we never left, even with three kids! There are countless children’s events, art installations, great restaurants, and non-stop
entertainment all at your fingertips. For us, it always made sense to live right in the middle of everything and take advantage of our city. At the moment, we are living our life one day at a time to its fullest and feel beyond lucky to call New York City our home.
What’s your favorite off-the-beatenpath thing to do with your kids? We’ve always loved spending a few nights each summer out east at the Wölffer Estate Wine Stand in Suffolk County. And if you’re looking for something closer to NYC, Governors’ Island is the best place I can think of. It’s an untapped resource for many New Yorkers.
Why follow @gothamlove? We love watching Cohen’s family life unfold in her gorgeous photos—plus she’s always got an upbeat and inspirational attitude. Read more at nymetroparents.com/gothamlove.
@gothamlove
|
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
@GothamLove
|
gothamlove.com
New Places, New Programs Suffern Hospital Launches Pediatric Emergency Service
Indoor Skiing, Water Park, Mini Golf, and More! American Dream, a mall in East Rutherford, NJ, reopened to the public on Oct. 1 with a variety of fun activities for the whole family. Big Snow—America’s only indoor ski resort—opened at the American Dream on Sept. 1. In addition, Nickelodeon Universe, Out of This World Blacklight Mini Golf, Angry Birds Mini Golf, The Rink, and the DreamWorks Water Park are all now open with a variety of COVID-19 safety precautions. 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ; americandream.com.
Good Samaritan Hospital, a member of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network, has established dedicated pediatric services in its Emergency Department. Pediatric emergency medicine specialists are now available on-site to treat children ages newborn to 18. The hospital has also launched a 30-Minute Pledge that promises when patients visit the ED, they will be seen by a provider within 30 minutes of completing registration. 255 Lafayette Ave. (Route 59), Suffern; 845-3685000; goodsamhosp.org.
A Unique Thanksgiving Parade Each year, we bundle up and head out to see the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons float down Fifth Avenue, but this year will look a little different. While the traditional parade won’t happen (to avoid the massive crowds), you can still see the balloons, performers, floats, and more from the comfort of your couch! For more details, visit nymetroparents.com/parade.
What are you thankful for?
Even the rhino statues at the Bronx Zoo were wearing masks! —Follow us on Instagram, @NYMetroParents, for more local news, memes, advice, and more
Make a gratitude chain by cutting 6-by-1-inch slips of colored construction paper in shades of red, orange, and brown to incorporate a Thanksgiving theme. Let each person at your Thanksgiving dinner write one blessing they have received this past year or one thing for which they are thankful. Connect the ends on the first strip of paper with tape or glue and then connect each link to the chain. This is fun to work on all month with the family, too. Find more ideas like this to celebrate Thanksgiving at nymetroparents.com/traditions.
Want to see your child in our magazine? Tag us on Instagram for a chance to be featured!
RocklandParent 11
baby it means they’re board-certified and belong to the American Academy of Pediatrics. (This can be verified by visiting the American Board of Pediatrics’ website, abp.org.)
LOOK BEYOND THE RESUME.
The Perfect Pediatrician Finding the right doctor for your kids can be tricky, but it’s worth a careful search. By Misha Valencia
O
ne of the most important relationships parents have may be the one they develop with their children’s doctors. It’s crucial for parents to trust their pediatrician as they navigate their child’s developmental stages, possible illnesses, and medical concerns. Now, during the pandemic, it’s especially important that parents value their kids’ medical evaluations. So how do you ensure you find the right fit?
CONDUCT A THOROUGH SEARCH. Many parents begin looking for a doctor before their child is born. The American Pregnancy Association urges parents to ask relatives, friends, and prenatal care providers for referrals. You can also research providers in your area by checking your insurance company’s website. (If insurance or cost is an issue contact your local Department of Health to locate pediatricians or clinics that provide care on a sliding scale.) Another way to learn more about providers? Read reviews on websites such as Zocdoc.com and Ratemds.com, but it’s important to remember that opinions can be very subjective. Your research should include the provider’s medical training and knowledge, her bedside manner, her reputation in the community, any facilities she is associated with, and her medical perspectives on different issues (like vaccines, medication, breast-feeding). Look for providers with the FAAP credentials after their name—
The best way to narrow the field is to meet the pediatrician. Set up a visit, ask questions, and get a sense of how the office runs. Jennifer McCarthy, an attorney and mother of two boys in New Jersey, says when looking for a pediatrician, her main focus was finding someone who “would be open to being a partner in my children’s care. When my older son was born, we met a doctor who talked for twenty minutes straight without ever asking a single question about my child—that is exactly what I didn’t want.” Emily Skeen, a pediatric nurse in New York City, says it’s also important to examine the doctor’s practice. “Do they return phone calls? Can you make an appointment easily? Is there a medical professional available after hours?” Some other questions to ask: How long is the wait? Will your child see the same pediatrician for all visits? And because COVID-19 is spreading: Is there a separate waiting area for sick children?
DON’T LET COVID-19 DETER A DOCTOR VISIT. It might seem easier and safer to put off a pediatrician visit right now, but despite current coronavirus concerns, parents should not hesitate to bring their young ones to a doctor’s office— especially for annual checkups and immunizations, according to Kevin A. Slavin, M.D., a pediatric infectious disease specialist with Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health. Another reason not to miss a doctor’s visit this year: the flu shot, if you’re opting to get your children vaccinated. Plus, because flu and COVID-19 symptoms are so similar, a visit might be the only way to diagnose your child. In addition to taking all precautions, including wearing masks and sanitizing hands, make sure you ask the office what safety procedures are in place. For example, can you wait outside or in the car before your appointment? Does the doctor offer telehealth services for times when in-person visits aren’t required?
WHAT IF IT ENDS UP NOT BEING A GOOD FIT? Caregivers have the right to switch providers at any point if they feel uncomfortable. If there is a specific issue that can be addressed, try giving some feedback first and see if things improve. If you feel dismissed or uneasy, then find another pediatrician. Even after a provider is selected, keep an eye on how the doctor interacts with you and your children. Is he patient with the kids? Do you feel rushed through visits? If your children express feeling uncomfortable or not wanting to see a certain doctor, look into finding someone your kids feel more at ease with. The rigorous process of finding the ideal pediatrician is worth it. The right doctor can be a lifelong asset to you and your kids throughout their young lives.
Mommybites’ nanny boards only feature postings from nannies’ current families. You can rely on their recommendations. If you need a nanny or babysitter, visit Mommybites.com. 12
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
advice
Ask DadandBuried It’s our turn to host Thanksgiving this year. I’m nervous, because on top of the pandemic, there’s the election, which may still be up in the air come the end of November. How are we supposed to navigate dinner with the in-laws when we have opposing political views? —Marielle, White Plains
A
h, celebrating the holidays during the most contentious political atmosphere since Lincoln was President. What a delightful way to cap off the nightmare that is 2020! Pandemics, wildfires, murder hornets, and now Thanksgiving with the in-laws. What are we supposed to be thankful for again? I kid, I kid. Even during this difficult year, we can all find something to be thankful for. Hopefully your list includes your health, and your jobs, and maybe even the pandemic puppy you allowed your kids to talk you into. But the fact is, family gatherings are always fraught, and this year’s political landscape is bound to make them even tougher than usual. Regardless of your affiliation, nobody likes getting into political arguments (except for every single person on Facebook, obviously), especially on a national holiday. The coronavirus hasn’t given us much; it’s mostly been taking things away. But it may offer the perfect escape clause. You mention that it’s your turn to host Thanksgiving, but…maybe it isn’t? With flu season arriving and COVID-19 numbers surging again, it might be a good year to hold off on the big holiday gathering. There has never been a better reason to avoid your in-laws than the global pandemic that is starting to bubble back up. Don’t want to discuss the presidential election with your father-in-law over mashed potatoes? Then don’t! Tell them you don’t want to take the chance of getting them sick and take a raincheck on hosting. That way you can skip the debate over BLM and MAGA and antifa and the Supreme Court and enjoy a low-key holiday yelling at your kids to sit still and finish their stuffing. Just like a normal year! If the in-laws are desperate to see the kids, offer to do a Zoom Thanksgiving instead, and the first time someone mentions politics, turn off the Wi-Fi. If they’re anything like my in-laws, they won’t be able to figure it out anyway. Our advice column features the wise and humorous commentary of Mike Julianelle (aka @DadandBuried), a 40-something influencer with a popular podcast who lives in Brooklyn with his wife and two kids.
HAVE A QUESTION FOR DADANDBURIED? Send it to editor@nymetroparents.com with the subject “DadandBuried’s Advice.”
Vicki’s Dance Studio In-studio classes • ZOOM classes
BEGINNERS–ADVANCED (2 YEARS OLD–ADULTS) Spacious studios to maintain social distancing Professional Teachers Affordable pricing Age appropriate choreography & costumes Small class sizes Personalized attention Convenient class schedules Multiple studios for convenient sibling drop off
• Jazz • Tap • Ballet • Hip Hop 16 Mos–4 Yrs Old—Boys and Girls • Combos • Pre-K Programs (Diapers welcome) Classes divided by age • Gymnastics • Lyrical
Register Now!
SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY
• Limited class size • Sanitizing throughout each session • Temperatures taken before entering •Part time program with extended hours • Masks •Small classes with individualized attention • Commercial CDC approved •Early learning skills, arts & crafts, fog disinfectant machine music, developmental play, & lots more! sprayed daily w ter No e Regis spac d e it Lim ble availa
61 Maple Ave • New City vickistudio.com • 634-2202 vickisstudio@gmail.com
Miriam Aronoff, D.D.S. and Associates
General, Family, & Children’s Dentistry • Sunday & evening hours Available • Most Insurances Accepted • No Insurance? Please ask about Dr. Aronoff’s Reduced Fee Plan
845.712.5133
mydentistrocklandcounty.com WESLEY HILLS
2 Pearl Drive
(corner of Pearl & Rt. 306 N. just past Wesley Kosher)
MONSEY
1 Fletcher Road, Suite C
(between Robert Pitt Dr. & Monsey Blvd.) RocklandParent 13
School Year
Success Whether your kids are learning at home, in school, or a mix of the two, it’s possible to ensure they stay on track for 2020-2021. By Shana Liebman
W
ith COVID-19 cluster zones appearing in our area, one of the biggest issues facing parents is remote education. How do we keep our kids engaged and learning while at home? Does she need a tutor? How can you help him stay focused? When are those state and standardized tests? Read on for how to help your child get the most out of this school year.
DOES YOUR CHILD NEED A TUTOR?
Kids are struggling more than ever—experts weigh in on how and when to hire help It’s an unusual time for education—remote learning has forced students to find new ways to engage with academics. Many are struggling with at-home learning (Zoom calls, Google Classroom, etc.) and some are struggling with the schoolwork itself. How do you know if your child needs extra help? We asked education experts how parents can assess from the sidelines and intervene if necessary. SIGNS YOU CHILD MAY NEED A TUTOR Although many flailing students will be flagged by their teacher, it’s often up to the parents to observe the signs. Angela Thomas, director of wellness and counseling at the Elisabeth Morrow School in New Jersey, says she’s “not sure the teacher will always ring the alarm as much as an observant parent can.” If your child is struggling to keep up, having problems completing grade-level assignments, getting low grades, avoiding doing homework, or complaining about material being too hard, it’s a good time to investigate further help, says Jeffrey Wu, managing 14
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
director of The Tutorverse in Manhattan. Other signs your child may need extra help, according to Daniel Koffler, president of New Frontiers Executive Functioning Coaching in Manhattan: she normally likes school but is suddenly disinterested, or you sense a sudden loss of self-confidence or motivation. “These are difficult signals to read as they can be momentary, or sometimes hidden, but most parents know their children well enough to look out for cues,” he says. Parents should also pay attention to how their child feels about a subject, says Talia Kovacs, CEO of an international consulting firm and founder of Talia Kovacs Consulting in Brooklyn. “For many children, disinterest in a subject is a sign that they are not yet fully understanding the topic or are having a hard time making natural connections necessary to grasp a concept,” she says. This might just be a matter of asking him what subjects he doesn’t like and confirming with the teacher that it’s a topic of concern. FINDING THE RIGHT TUTOR If a parent decides their child could benefit from a tutor, they should first speak with their kid’s teacher to get his perspective, Koffler says. “Sometimes children can be defiant or take a different stance on accountability at school vs. home.” He also believes parents should speak with their child, so “that they have agency over their educational efforts, regardless of age.” Ask teachers, friends, and community members for recommendations and referrals for tutors—either remote, inperson, or a hybrid—in your area. It’s important to make sure you find someone who is specifically trained in the subjects in which your child needs help. For example, Rebecca Mannis, Ph.D.,
learning specialist and founder of Ivy Prep Learning Center, points out that someone who is trained in how to teach beginning reading may not know how to teach reading comprehension strategies to middle school students within the context of their history class. Early intervention is always the best approach, Koffler warns. “The longer one lets a problem fester, the harder it is to reinforce foundations and make progress,” he says. Getting your child back on track will help her feel better about herself and her abilities. And, as Kovacs points out, “by using an outside tutor to help your child understand a topic further and retain their curiosity, you’ll help them find their love of learning all over again.”
GETTING OUT THE WIGGLES
What to do if your student just can’t sit still when learning at home Half the kids in my son’s online classroom are spinning and bopping in their chairs and the other half are nowhere to be seen—and likely running down the hallways of their homes. It’s tough for kids, especially young ones, to sit still for long periods of remote learning. So, what can parents do to help them? “Let them stand! Who says you have to sit all day?” says Stacy Haynes, a professional counselor and educator at Little Hands Agency. She also urges parents to minimize the distraction—find quiet space for everyone to learn— and to allow for fidget toys, like fidget spinners, squishy balls, magnets, and paper clips. Diana Lee Santamaria, an early education specialist who writes bilingual books for kids, recommends setting a timer “so they have a clear-cut understanding of how much time they will be in that learning session.” And Rebecca Mannis, Ph.D., learning specialist and founder of Ivy Prep Learning Center, says parents should set small goals or deadlines for kids and then reward them with treats for attaining them. It’s also important to have a quiet and comfortable workstation, and to minimize the glare of the screen with proper lighting. Another trick, according to Sheila Liang of Singapore Math Learning Center, is to encourage him to take notes—this will help your child stay focused. A routine can also help—get up at the same time every day, eat a good breakfast, and make sure your child has everything she needs at her desk. Get him into the mindset that it’s time to focus and actively listen— which parents can enforce by modeling this behavior. Another surefire way to get out the wiggles is taking frequent breaks to move around. Here are some ideas for a quick mobile breaktime that will help kids refocus and reset: • Go on a short bike ride. Even if it’s just around the block, let your kids breathe some fresh air and move their legs. • Dance it out. Play your family’s favorite songs and bust a move. • Get up and stretch. A couple of warrior poses on each leg and a long downward-facing dog should do the trick. • Jump around. Use a trampoline, jumping rope, or just tennis shoes and a floor. • Organize a scavenger hunt. Plant 4-5 items based on a theme such as shapes or food and then give your kids clues to find them. • Create an obstacle course. Use chalk to draw obstacle prompts on cement; create a Hula-Hoop challenge or use the hoops as steppingstones; crawl through tents or tunnels. • Let them play with their hands. Give your kids a ball of clay or dough and ask them to make shapes. • Zentangle. This game uses small squares of paper to create spur-of-themoment designs, which helps the creator be in the moment and forget about other concerns, like algebra.
When is That Test? Stay on top of testing with this calendar of exam dates While we don’t know for certain what this school year’s standardized testing situation will be, it’s always a good idea to know when exams are being administered to help your student prepare.
New York State Exams •G IFTED AND TALENTED: Families must file a Request for Testing in the fall and the test is administered to students in January 2021. • THE NEW YORK STATE REGENTS: Jan. 26-29, 2021; June 15-25, 2021; Aug. 12-13, 2021 • ALTERNATE ASSESSMENT: March 8-June 11, 2021 •E NGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS TEST (GRADES 3-8): April 20-22, 2021 (paper); April 19-26, 2021 (computer) •N YSESLA (SPEAKING) TEST: April 19-May 28, 2021 •N YSESLA (LISTENING, READING, WRITING) TEST: May 17-28, 2021 • MATH TEST (GRADES 3-8): May 4-6, 2021 (paper); May 3-10, 2021 (computer) • NY STATE SCIENCE TEST (GRADE 4 AND 8): May 25-June 4, 2021 (performance); June 7, 2021 (written)
College Testing •A CT: Oct. 17, 24, and 25; Dec. 12; Feb. 6, 2021; April 17, 2021; June 12, 2021; July 17, 2021 •P SAT / NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP QUALIFYING: Oct. 14, 17, and 29; Jan. 26, 2021 • SAT: Nov. 7; Dec. 5; March 13, 2021; May 8, 2021; June 5, 2021 •A P EXAMS: May 3-7, 2021; May 10-14, 2021
RocklandParent 15
halloween
It’s time for skeletons, witches, and jack-o’-lanterns, but how do we prepare our families for a safe and fun Halloween? By Melissa Wickes
H
alloween is quickly approaching, and it’s a dose of fun every family is in dire need of right now. But considering the pandemic, is traditional Halloween fun off the table? Is trick-or-treating allowed? Can you show off this year’s homemade costume at a spooky soirée? No matter what your celebrations look like—and whether they’re in person or not—here are some ideas for celebrating safely.
TRICK-OR-TREATING: YAY OR NAY? Governor Andrew Cuomo said he won’t formally ban trick-ortreating this Halloween, but he doesn’t necessarily encourage parents to take their kids door-to-door either. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classified traditional trickor-treating (where treats are handed to children going doorto-door) as a high-risk activity and instead recommends the following alternatives: • Individually wrap goodie bags and line them up at the end 16
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
of your yard or driveway for neighbors to come collect in their costumes. • Create a scavenger hunt-style trick-or-treat search in your home or backyard for family and friends. You can determine the risk-level of trick-or-treating in your area with Hershey’s new Halloween website, halloween2020.org. It tracks the risk levels (red, orange, yellow, and green) of trick-ortreating throughout the country. Most of New York is yellow, though there are areas of red, orange, and green. Based on the color of your area, the site lists suggestions of activities that are considered safe. If your family ultimately chooses to go door-to-door, everyone should wear a face mask covering the nose and mouth and regularly sanitize, especially if chowing down on some treats during the trip. Remember: Not every family will feel comfortable handing out treats this year, so be patient and understanding— and try not to ring the doorbell more than once!
A costume mask for Halloween cannot be substituted for a cloth face mask, according to the CDC, unless it’s made of two or more layers of breathable fabric that cover your mouth and nose and don’t leave any gaps around your face. Also, you and your little ones should not wear a costume mask over a cloth mask because it can make it difficult to breathe. Instead, consider buying a fun Halloween-themed cloth mask or one that goes with your costume.
PARTY PROTOCOL As we know, outdoor activities are lower risk than indoor ones. Since Halloween falls on a Saturday this year, consider hosting an afternoon gathering with just a few guests in your backyard, as long as everyone follows social distancing and face mask guidelines. If staying home is more your jam right now, throw a costume party (and contest) over Zoom. You can even use spooky Zoom backgrounds to make it feel like a real graveyard smash.
TWO CHOICES FOR FALL CLASSES
Studio In-Person Or Live-Stream!
PUMPKIN CARVING Making jack-o’-lanterns is a timeless Halloween activity (visit nymetroparents.com/carve for pumpkin-carving tips) that can easily be done outside. Everyone can bring their own pumpkins, tools, and hand sanitizer—and sit 6 feet apart. May the best pumpkin win!
845
25 Holt Drive Stony Point, NY 10980
PRESCHOOL PROGRAM
-553-9533
JOIN US NOW
A Great Place For Your kids A Creative Learning Program for Ages 3-4
COSTUME PARADES Unfortunately, many Halloween parades and organized events (like NYC’s Greenwich Village Halloween Parade), have been canceled. However, you can safely create your own smaller parade outside, socially distanced, and with everyone in a mask (and of course, a costume!). Walk down the street where you normally trick-or-treat and have a costume contest at the end.
.COM
FACE MASK 411
POW E
SEDANCECENTE U O R RH
Contact us anytime! 845-241-5062
powerhousedancecenter.om/learn-play/ 174 Filors Lane Building #3 Stony Point, NY 10980
ATTENTION
Parents and Grandparents!
(NOT-SO) SCARY MOVIE NIGHTS Many drive-in movie theaters are throwing Halloween movie nights throughout October. Pick a night to go with friends (in separate cars, of course) and enjoy a spooky (or not-so-spooky) Halloween flick. Bonus points if you bring candy corn instead of popcorn! Alternatively, you can have a Halloween movie marathon at home (or give Netflix Party a try for an at-home movie night with friends).
HAUNTED HOUSES Spooky venues throughout the New York area are doing their very best to keep you and your family safe (and spooked) through the Halloween season. If you’re all about being scared, pay a visit to one of the many haunted houses or spooky corn mazes in the New York area. If you’d rather something not-so-spooky, consider the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, which is being hosted in Westchester County and on Long Island this year.
And we still offer “FEAR-FREE DENTISTRY” for the kids:
ANESTHESIA-FREE & Virtually PAIN FREE no drill • no numb feeling • no needles no jarring noises • no soreness
Dental Wellness of Suffern | Sherri Alpert, D.D.S. 2 Executive Blvd., Suite 307, Suffern, NY (845) 918-1801 | dentalwellnessofsuffern.com RocklandParent 17
S T N E EV
FREE ONLINE Creepy Tales and Ghost Stories
WHEN: Friday, Oct. 30, 7-8pm WHERE: Pearl River Library, 80 Franklin Ave., Pearl River AGES: 10 and older WHAT: Enjoy an evening of creepy tales and ghost stories! Dress up in costume for a livestream performance by The Storycrafters! Registration required. Zoom link will be emailed to registrants on the day of the program. Call or email Jennifer Daddio (jdaddio@pearlriverlibrary.org) with questions. WANT TO GO? 845-735-4084. pearlriverlibrary.org.
FREE IN-PERSON
IN-PERSON Halloweekends: Family Phantom Weekend WHEN: Oct. 23-25, Friday-Sunday, 7pm WHERE: Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, 498 Red Apple Court, Central Valley AGES: All WHAT: Experience classic films on a big screen, plus stand-up comedy, trivia, raffles, concession snacks, and more. Purchase tickets in advance. Friday: Jurassic Park; Saturday: Labyrinth; Sunday: Casper. WANT TO GO? $100 for first 4 guests; $20 additional guests up to 8 guests total. nightout.com. IN-PERSON Mal & Evie’s Wicked Halloween Bash WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 25, 10-11:30am WHERE: Glitter & Glam at the Palisades Center, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Mal & Evie will visit Glitter & Glam! Kids will have glittery make up applied, a Decendants manicure, get a villain up-do, and have a dance party! Registration required. WANT TO GO? $49.95 per child. 201-970-4526 x3. glitterandglamspa.com. FREE ONLINE Not-So-Spooky Story Time WHEN: Friday, Oct. 30, 5-5:30pm WHERE: Orangeburg Library, 20 S. Greenbush Road, Orangeburg AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Wear your costumes for this Halloween story time. Join Miss Kimberly for a few Halloween stories. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 845-359-2244. orangeburglibrary.org. 18
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
Halloween Drive-In Event
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31, 1-1:30pm, 1:35-2:05pm, 2:10-2:40pm, and 2:45-3:15pm WHERE: Bach to Rock Music School Nanuet, 150 E. Route 59, Nanuet AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy an outdoor drive-in event featuring live music, DJs, trunk-or-treating, a prize wheel, and more! Student bands will be featured and solo artists performing in the parking lot within an enclosed area. RSVP is required for this event; space is limited to 10 cars per time slot. CDC-approved masks required! Call or email nanuet@bachtorock.com to reserve your time slot today! WANT TO GO? 845-215-9536. nanuet.b2rmusic.com.
ONLINE
Spooky Cookie Decorating
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31, 11am WHERE: Blues Baking Bash, Zoom AGES: 3 and older WHAT: The Blue’s Baking Bash team will teach you and your family how to decorate Halloween-themed cookies for free with the purchase of their Halloween cookie kit. Zoom link will be emailed to the visitor after the purchase. WANT TO GO? $20. 201-676-0062. bluesbakingbash.com.
IN-PERSON Pellets and Potions WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31, 2-3pm WHERE: Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, NJ AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Participants will meet a live owl, explore its eating habits, and examine a real owl pellet—bones and all! Then create several crafty and spooky potions! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Program will be held entirely outdoors. Masks required. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 members. 201-568-6093. tenaflynaturecenter.org.
ONLINE
Magic for Humans at Home with Justin Willman: Halloween Show! WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31, 7pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: All WHAT: An interactive hour of magic, comedy, and unexpected surprises delivered directly into your living room. Justin is a regular on the Tonight Show, Ellen, and Comedy Central, and is the star of the hit Netflix series Magic for Humans. Now he invites you and your friends to join him (on Zoom) for this unique and intimate all-ages experiment. Plus, there will be a costume contest, so dress appropriately. WANT TO GO? $25. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.
IN-PERSON I SPY Halloween Nature Trail ‘Fairy Tale Forest’ WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 31, 10am-3pm WHERE: Hudson Highlands Nature Museum›s Outdoor Discovery Center, 120 Muser Drive, Cornwall AGES: All WHAT: The Nature Museum needs help to lift the curse on Kenridge Farm! Head into the Fairy Tale Forest where your favorite storybook characters live and keep a sharp eye out to see if they have the ingredients needed to help reverse the curse. Costumes are encouraged! Advanced registration required. WANT TO GO? $10. 845-534-5506. hhnm.org. IN-PERSON Halloweekends: 80’s Spooks Weekend WHEN: Oct. 30-Nov. 1, Friday-Sunday, 7pm WHERE: Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, 498 Red Apple Court, Central Valley AGES: All WHAT: Movies on the big screen, plus live performances, stand-up comedy, digital programming, trivia, raffles, concession snacks, and more. Purchase tickets in advance. Parental discretion advised. Friday: Ghostbusters; Saturday: Poltergeist; Sunday: Gremlins WANT TO GO? $100 for first 4 guests; $20 additional guests up to 8 guests total. nightout.com. IN-PERSON No Scare Halloween WHEN: Through Nov. 1: Saturday-Sunday, 11am-4pm WHERE: Museum Village, 1010 State Route 17M, Monroe AGES: All WHAT: Join Museum Village for its expanded walk-through, socially distanced No-Scare Halloween this October! Wear your not-so-scary costumes to this family-friendly, boo-free zone, stroll through the Halloween Village and enjoy activities, games, demos, and more. WANT TO GO? $13; $11 seniors 65 and older; $9 ages 4-12; free for children 3 and younger. 845-782-8248. museumvillage.org. IN-PERSON Hallowfest WHEN: Through Nov. 1: Saturday-Sunday, 2-6pm WHERE: Six Flags Great Adventure, 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a spooktacular celebration of family-friendly frights! Reserve tickets in advance. WANT TO GO? Tickets start at $29.99. 732-928-2000. sixflags.com.
STEM
ROBOTICS
CODING FOR KIDS A Lavishly Illustrated Children’s Story of Friendship and Overcoming Obstacles
Tilly... A Deer’s Tale (BASED ON A TRUE STORY)
Follow the adventures of a rescued baby deer. Share Tilly’s courage and valiant recovery. Call 914-764-5564
to schedule a free Tilly Event for schools, libraries & hospitals Available at Barnes & Noble, Walden Books and at Amazon.com For books preview and sale, visit us at:
www.tillyadeerstale.com
Keep in Touch facebook.com/nymetroparents @nymetroparents
@NYMetroParents
editor@nymetroparents.com
RocklandParent 19
family activities
Check out the view from the Top of the Rock. This vantage point offers one thing the Empire State Building can’t: a view of the classic art deco ESB itself (topoftherocknyc.com).
Snap some pics with your favorite celebrities and characters at Madame Tussauds New York. Jimmy Fallon, King Kong, the Ghostbusters, Marvel superheroes, and more (madametussauds.com)!
Visit Roosevelt Island via tram. The novelty of a tram ride over the East River combines with the wonder of visiting a built-up island with space to roam.
Your 2020 NYC Bucket List 45 reasons to love (and explore) New York City before the end of the year By Katelin Walling
W
e live in—arguably—the greatest city in the world, and for seven months, we were unable to take advantage of all the city has to offer. So, we compiled a list of 45 things in New York City you can do with your kids right now—from museums and experiences to many things we consider “touristy” (but now’s the perfect time for New Yorkers to visit!). Consider this the end-of-year bucket list for every New York metro area family. As with anything these days, since things change quickly because of the coronavirus pandemic, call locations before visiting to ensure they’re still open. And if you check off any of these items and post about your adventures on Instagram, make sure to tag us: @NYMetroParents!
Head to the historic boiler room of Chelsea Market to experience ARTECHOUSE. The immersive art space will be transformed into unique expressions of Pantone’s Color of the Year 2020, Classic Blue, beginning Oct. 22 (artechouse.com).
20
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
Talk quietly at the whispering gallery at Grand Central Terminal. You go to
Svetlana Jovanovic
one corner and your kiddo goes to another— and you can hear each other whisper. It’s cool. Then you can stare at the zodiac ceiling.
Meet King Nyani, the world’s largest gorilla sculpture, in Bella Abzug Park in Hudson Yards. On display through next summer, the sculpture aims to raise awareness of the critically endangered gorilla species.
Go to the Central Park Zoo. A classic zoo experience in the middle of Manhattan, it’s a smaller scale than its Bronx cousin, but it still includes polar bears, seals, and snakes. Plus, the children’s section has a petting zoo (centralparkzoo.com).
Climb aboard the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum. Be amazed by the scale of an aircraft carrier, a submarine, a Concorde, and even a space shuttle (intrepidmuseum.org).
Do a lot of sightseeing in 90 minutes with Hornblower Cruises Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Cruise. Must-see sights include Governors Island, Brooklyn Bridge, South Street Seaport, Hudson Yards, and the Statue of Liberty (hornblower.com).
Explore Jewish culture, history, and traditions at the Jewish Children’s Museum. The Brooklyn institution even has an indoor mini-golf course celebrating six major Jewish life events (jcm.museum).
Feed the alpacas and sheep at Prospect Park Zoo in Brooklyn. And don’t forget to stop in to see the elusive Pallas’s cat, or as the zoo calls them, the original grumpy cat (prospectparkzoo.com).
See a miniature version of NYC at Queens Museum. The Panorama of the City of New York was originally built for the 1964 World’s Fair and is considered the crown jewel of the museum’s collection (queensmuseum.org).
Get a head start on holiday shopping at Empire Outlets on Staten Island. It’s NYC’s only outlet shopping destination (empireoutlets.nyc)!
Go on a lantern safari with Bronx Zoo’s Holiday Lights. It features illuminated animals from all over the world in five safaris spread throughout the zoo. Make sure to visit with all your favorite live animals while there (bronxzoo.com)!
Scott Frances for SPYSCAPE
Explore 250 acres of the Bronx at New York Botanical Garden. You’ll see an old-growth forest, a natural Bronx River waterfall, native plants, aquatic plants, and more (nybg.org).
See part of the 1964 World’s Fair atop the aviary at the Queens Zoo in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens. You’ll also meet animals from North and South America without leaving the World’s Borough!
Indulge your chocolate cravings at Hershey’s Chocolate World. Don’t
Learn the secrets and skills of spies at SPYSCAPE! Go behind the scenes of
miss the s’more experience (hersheys.com)! Bond, James Bond (spyscape.com). continued on next page
RocklandParent 21
continued from previous page
Climb the Vessel’s 154 flights of stairs. The different vantage points and views of the city are totally worth it, we promise (hudsonyardsnewyork.com)!
Get up close and personal with Lady Liberty aboard Statue Cruises. While you
Discover unbelievable mysteries Circumnavigate the island of at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Manhattan on Circle Line’s Times Square. Shrunken heads, the Best of NYC Cruise! It’s the only world’s tallest man, a two-headed calf, and more await (ripleysnewyork.com)!
sightseeing experience to do so (circleline.com).
might not be able to go inside the statue just yet, you can walk the grounds, then stop over to explore the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration (statuecruises.com).
Walk the High Line. Stroll on what used to be a train line and is now a well-architected park on the west side of Manhattan and view special art installations along the way.
Brush up on history at New-York Historical Society. Though the DiMenna Children’s History Museum remains temporarily closed, the society’s other exhibits have family guides available for use in the galleries (nyhistory.org).
Find some hidden treasures at Brooklyn Flea in Dumbo. Browse furniture, vintage clothing, antiques, a selection of handcrafted items from local artisans, food, and more (brooklynflea.com).
Discover the wonders of the ocean at New York Aquarium in Coney Island, Brooklyn. You’ll meet turtles, sharks, jellyfish, sea lions, seals, sea otters, and more (nyaquarium.com)!
Get lost in the American Museum of Natural History. Dinosaurs, gigantic crystals, and a 94-foot-long blue whale, need we say more? Don’t forget to stop by The Nature of Color, a special exhibit that explores the world of color (amnh.org).
Get cultured at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Priceless artifacts and works of art, mummies, and so much more make this a thrilling educational ride (metmuseum.org).
Explore the multi-sensory installations of everyone’s favorite frozen treat at the Museum of Ice Cream. You’ll even enjoy unique flavors of the sweet treat (museumoficecream.com)!
Climb on Alice in Wonderland in Central Park. Clamber over and hide under bronze Stand 100 stories above NYC when you visit the Edge, the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere! The deck features a glass floor, so you can observe the ant-like city streets below (edgenyc.com). 22
Immerse yourself in and experience the joy of color at Color Factory. The experiential art exhibit is full of Insta-worthy photo ops (colorfactory.co)!
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
mushrooms at Alice’s feet.
Meander through the LuminoCity Festival displays on Randall’s Island. You’ll see LED light sculptures of Insta-famous dogs and cats (including Smoothie the cat), a Mysterious Forest, and more (luminocityfestival.com).
Skate at the iconic Rockefeller Center ice rink. While the official details of its opening are still to be announced (as of press), The Rink at Rockefeller Center will reopen to ice-skaters this fall with guidelines in place to maintain social distancing (skatingatrockcenter.com).
Help your kids learn fire safety at FDNY Fire Zone. Kids can climb on a realistic fire truck, try on bunker gear, meet a firefighter, and more (fdnysmart. org/firezone).
Take in art at MoMA. Because everyone needs to see Monet’s “Water Lilies” in person—and there’s plenty of other colors, shapes, and awesomeness (moma.org).
See the world’s tallest Hot Light at Krispy Kreme Times Square. Then see how the doughnuts are made and enjoy the special edition Big Apple doughnut, only available at this location.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Dylan’s Candy Bar. Tap your inner Willy Wonka at this retail testament to sugar, which now has four NYC locations: the Upper East Side, Columbus Circle, Hudson Yards, and Soho.
Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece of modern architecture, the Guggenheim Museum. See modern and contemporary art,
Stand in awe at the Rockefeller Center tree. Official details about the 2020 Christmas tree and tree lighting ceremony have not been released (as of press), but we do know that COVID-19 won’t stop this holiday tradition (rockefellercenter.com)!
including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Pollock, as well as intriguing special exhibits (guggenheim.org).
Make your way to the top of the iconic Empire State Building for spectacular views of Manhattan. This is a rite of passage for every New Yorker (esbnyc.com)!
See more art at the Brooklyn Museum. No matter the exhibit, something is always bright and interesting here (brooklynmuseum.org).
Get your fill of all things sweet and sour at the Sour Patch Kids Store in Greenwich Village. Enjoy photo ops, special edition merch, and a one-of-a-kind dessert menu featuring the soursweet candy (sourpatchkids.com/store_nyc).
Watch a show at Puppetworks Theater in Park Slope, Brooklyn. It’s a nonprofit puppet theater with handmade wood marionettes and deep Brooklyn roots—and it’s operating at 25-percent capacity (puppetworks.org).
Take a moment of remembrance at the 9/11 Memorial. Then visit the museum to see artifacts, hear personal stories, and learn about the events of Sept. 11 and the aftermath (911memorial.org). RocklandParent 23
tech for kids
Math & Reading Apps These fun (and educational) apps will keep kids learning after the school day ends. By Melissa Wickes
Apps for Elementary School Kids PBS KIDS FOR PARENTS PLAY & LEARN ENGINEERING
LIBBY, BY OVERDRIVE RECOMMENDED AGES: 5 and older
Get free and easy access to your local library’s entire selection of digital kids (and adult) books. And for reluctant readers, there are audio versions available.
RECOMMENDED AGES: 3-4
DRAGONBOX BIG NUMBERS
This parent-child engagement tool was created in collaboration with early childhood experts and allows users to design and test roller coasters, use simple tools to problem solve their way through an obstacle course, build clever contraptions to deliver food to hungry animals, and construct boxy towers to rescue a kitten from a tree.
RECOMMENDED AGES: 6 and older
EPIC! - KIDS’ BOOKS AND VIDEOS
Quirky games that require early elementary arithmetic so kids can practice math as they explore a virtual world.
JUMP NUMBERS RECOMMENDED AGES: 6 and older
Kids jump between different math equations and techniques in an attempt to rescue an imaginary animal family.
RECOMMENDED AGES: 4 and older
A digital reading club for kids ages 2-12, which includes quizzes and learning videos, plus materials for parents.
DIY.ORG
BRAINPOP FEATURED MOVIE RECOMMENDED AGES: 8 and older
Daily videos about a wide variety of topics, from Mars to Frida Kahlo, will get kids thinking—and hopefully lead to further exploration.
RECOMMENDED AGES: 5 and older
These inspired multimedia projects are not overtly academic but reading and math skills are required for each challenge.
SLICE FRACTIONS RECOMMENDED AGES: 9 and older
In this interactive game, kids slice though lava and ice to learn about fractions.
Apps for Middle and High School Kids DRAGONBOX ALGEBRA 12+ RECOMMENDED AGES: 12 and older
Designed by a math teacher, this game makes advanced algebra skills seem simple. (Other versions and levels are also available.)
JOUR-GUIDED JOURNALING RECOMMENDED AGES: 13 and older
A prompted journal-writing opportunity that encourages kids to reflect and write on their own.
TEEN & ADULT PHONICS LIBRARY RECOMMENDED AGES: 15 and older
For teens who struggle with reading or dyslexia, this app provides age-appropriate reading selections using decodable words.
24
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
VIRTUAL
IN-PERSON
BOTH health, predictability, and rhythm; strong individual and community relationships; a full five-day program; place-based education for the whole person; and flexibility.
Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio
AFTER-SCHOOL
BIRTHDAY PARTIES
Code Ninjas, New Jersey
Tilly...A Deer’s Tale
171 Lake St., Ramsey, NJ 201-402-2601 508 Livingston St., Norwood, NJ 201-267-2633 85 Goodwin Ave., Midland Park, NJ 201-882-1234 283 Market St., Building B, Unit 6, Saddle Brook, NJ 551-300-2633 codeninjas.com At Code Ninjas locations in Ramsey, Midland Park, Norwood, and Saddle Brook, kids have a blast learning to code by building their very own video games. They gain problem solving, critical thinking, and STEM skills in a fun, safe, and inspiring environment. Flexible programs with dropin hours on weeknights and weekends.
Powerhouse Dance Center
25 Holt Drive, Stony Point 845-553-9533 powerhousedancecenter.com Registration is open and we are ready to dance when you are. In person with safety protocols in place or virtually from the comfort of your home. Get your kids dancing again! Ages 2 and older, beginner to adult! Register today!
Tumble-Bee Gymnastics and Fitness
401 Market St., Nanuet Mall South, Nanuet 845-623-2553 tumble-beegymnastics.com Tumble-Bee Gymnastics and Fitness offers an education in gymnastics, fitness, and fun. Serving Rockland for 35 years, we offer programs for children ages 10 months to 12 years. Our staff is warm, caring, and well trained to work with your child building confidence and self-esteem to achieve success in the future.
Vicki’s Dance Studio and Kreative Kids
61 Maple Ave., New City 845-634-2202 vickistudio.com For more than 35 years, Vicki’s Studio has been inspiring and motivating students. They offer beginner-advanced classes for ages 2-adult, including jazz, tap, hip-hop, ballet, lyrical, modern, creative movement, boys’ hip-hop, gymnastics, combination classes, and competitive dance team. Safely open for in-person classes following all CDC Safety Guidelines, or via Zoom.
914-764-5564 tillyadeerstale.com Tilly...A Deer’s Tale is about a real deer that lives in upstate New York and faces challenges after an accident. This powerful story is meant to inspire children living with physical challenges or limitations. The book makes a great birthday gift!
EDUCATION Academy of the Holy Angels
315 Hillside Ave., Demarest, NJ 201-768-7161 holyangels.org Founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in 1879, Holy Angels is Bergen County’s oldest private girls’ school. AHA welcomes students from various religious traditions, and provides an award-winning STREAM curriculum that emphasizes scholarship, character, leadership, and service. Many alumnae attend top universities and in turn share their gifts as high-ranking professionals.
Code Ninjas, New Jersey
171 Lake St., Ramsey, NJ 201-402-2601 508 Livingston St., Norwood, NJ 201-267-2633 85 Goodwin Ave., Midland Park, NJ 201-882-1234 283 Market St., Building B, Unit 6, Saddle Brook, NJ 551-300-2633 codeninjas.com At Code Ninjas locations in Ramsey, Midland Park, Norwood, and Saddle Brook, kids have a blast learning to code by building their very own video games. They gain problem solving, critical thinking, and STEM skills in a fun, safe, and inspiring environment. Flexible programs with dropin hours on weeknights and weekends.
Green Meadow Waldorf School
307 Hungry Hollow Road, Chestnut Ridge 845-356-2514 gmws.org gmws.org/admissionseventschedule Green Meadow Waldorf School offers a beautiful 11-acre campus, busing from Westchester/NYC, and outdoor learning spaces. Our focus this year prioritizes our core values: equity and inclusion; safety,
61 Maple Ave., New City 845-634-2202 vickistudio.com Kreative Kids is a toddler and nursery program for ages 16 months to 4 years (diapers welcomed)! Classes are divided by age. We offer arts and crafts, music with instruments, singing, creative movement, tumbling, story time, snack time, and early learning skills. We offer small class sizes and flexible, extended hours.
Powerhouse Learn & Play
174 Filors Lane, Stony Point 845-241-5062 powerhousedancecenter.com/learn-play We are a NYS-licensed learning center for children ages 2-4 years. We offer before- and after-care. All staff are First Aid- and CPR-certified. Flexible scheduling. A wonderful place for preschoolers to learn, grow, and have fun!
FAMILY ACTIVITIES Jill’s Ceramics
180 Germonds Road, West Nyack 845-623-4975 jillceramics.com jillsceramics@aol.com “Where children and adults create their own functional works of art.” Established for more than 37 years, we offer a huge variety of plaster pieces that can be painted and taken home the same day, or glazed ceramics with a large assortment of finishes. Open ceramic times as well as take-home kits.
Palisades Center
1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack 845-348-1000 palisadescenter.com Whether it’s raining or just too cold outside, Palisades Center has family-friendly activities everyone will enjoy, including the world’s tallest ropes course, an ice rink, a paint your own pottery studio, virtual reality attractions, and more! Visit palisadescenter.com for the latest information.
Palisades Climb Adventure
4590 Palisades Center Drive, level 4 of the Palisades Center, West Nyack 845-727-3500 palisadesclimb.com Palisades Climb Adventure provides fun for the whole family. We offer the world’s tallest indoor ropes challenge course
with 75 unique challenge elements to explore, climb, and conquer. Our Sky Tykes kids’ ropes course is designed for ages 2-7. Call about parties.
FOOD & HEALTH Crystal Run Healthcare
2 Centerock Road, West Nyack 845-348-1100 crystalrunhealthcare.com Crystal Run Healthcare is a multi-specialty medical group offering the convenience of more than 50 specialties and 400 providers. Our West Nyack facility offers high quality health care with more than 20 medical and surgical specialties, an infusion center, urgent care, diagnostic testing services, on-site laboratory, diagnostic imaging, and women’s imaging.
Dental Wellness of Suffern Sherri Alpert, D.D.S.
2 Executive Blvd., Suite 307, Suffern 845-918-1801 dentalwellnessofsuffern.com dentalwellness@optonline.net Dr. Alpert now offers drill free, needle free dentistry with the Solea CO2 Laser. Her practice offers comfortable cosmetic dentistry for the entire family including implants and full mouth reconstruction if necessary. A parent herself, Dr. Alpert has a lot of experience working with children who are apprehensive about the dentist.
Marita Smith, D.D.S. Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
5C Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-414-9626 smithslittlesmiles.com drsmith@smithslittlesmiles.com We provide excellent dental care for children infancy-adolescence in a warm and friendly environment. As a mother of two, Dr. Smith knows how important it is for a child to be comfortable and stress-free during their dental visits. Most insurances accepted. Evening and Saturday hours and 24-hour emergency service available. Se Habla Espanol.
Miriam Aronoff, D.D.S. & Associates
2 Pearl Drive and 1C Fletcher Road, Monsey 845-712-5133 draronoff.com monseydentist@gmail.com Miriam Aronoff and her associates utilize state-of-the-art equipment and methods in order to achieve state-of-theart oral healthcare results. We care for patients of all ages without age-related restriction. Connecting with, respecting, and educating our patients is of foremost importance to us.
RocklandParent 25
health
Prepping for Flu Season Learn how you can tell the difference between a common cold, the flu, and COVID-19—and stay as safe as possible By Barbara Russo
T
his year’s cold and flu season is a lot more complicated due to the current COVID-19 crisis. In 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported more than 39 million cases of influenza (a viral disease that attacks the nose, throat, and lungs). Most adults will get the common cold about twice a year—though children get it more often. This begs the question: What will cold and flu season be like during the pandemic?
PREDICTIONS IN A PANDEMIC How bad will flu season be in the U.S. this year? Kelly Fradin, M.D., author of Parenting in A Pandemic: How to Help Your Family Through COVID-19, looks for clues from Australia— where the flu season occurs before ours. “What we’ve seen in Australia is that there has been ninety-eight percent less flu than normal,” she says. “It’s been attributed to all the precautions that have been in place for coronavirus.” 26
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
Sharon Nachman, M.D., chief of the division of pediatric infectious diseases at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, says the severity of flu season in the U.S. will depend on the individual—and what safety precautions they take. “Among populations that are not going to be wearing masks, the flu season has good potential to be bad. We have a lot of people indoors, the weather’s getting colder, and it catches easily in households,” Dr. Nachman says. “However, among those populations that are being very careful by wearing masks and washing their hands, the potential is that we will have low transmission in those settings.”
THE FLU SHOT Doctors strongly encourage adults and children ages 6 months and older get the flu shot. Although there are no guarantees that the shot will prevent the flu, the illness won’t be as severe.
“Of the children who died last year of flu, more than eighty percent of them did not receive any flu vaccine,” Dr. Nachman says. “The flu vaccine may not prevent all disease, but it’s going to work hard at preventing hospitalizations, and will work even harder at preventing death.” Shirin Peters, M.D., an internal medicine specialist, and founder, medical director, and primary care physician at Bethany Medical Clinic of New York, agrees that the flu shot is essential this year, “as it will prevent my patients from needing to seek care in a busy urgent care or emergency room, where they may be exposed to COVID-19 and other infectious illness.”
IS IT A COLD, FLU, OR COVID-19? The symptoms for all three illnesses are similar. “Symptoms of the flu and cold are similar and often include cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle and body aches, headaches, and fatigue, but the flu is more intense and comes on more abruptly,” says Myron Rolle, M.D., a resident at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General. These symptoms are so similar to those of COVID-19, that it’s often hard to make a diagnosis. One distinguishing symptom of COVID-19 is anosmia—loss of smell (and often taste as well). Not all COVID-infected patients get anosmia and because the flu can cause a stuffy nose, it may still be a symptom that causes confusion. Dr. Rolle recommends getting tested for COVID-19 if any flu-like symptoms occur in adults or kids. And don’t worry— tests will be available, Dr. Nachman says. “Many doctors are now starting to get rapid testing abilities in their offices, similar to rapid testing for flu and strep throat.” She believes the frequency and ease of COVID tests will only increase. “The more resources to do this that are available, the more doctors are going to feel comfortable with testing.”
TAKE ALL PRECAUTIONS As flu and cold season approaches, it’s more important than ever to take precautions such as washing your hands, wearing face masks, and social distancing. “The good news is that the same measures that help prevent the spread of COVID-19 can also help prevent the spread of the cold and flu viruses,” says Travis Stork, M.D., an emergency medicine physician. And if you or your child get sick, doctors recommend rest, hydration, and a good diet to help your immune system. “Over the counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help with body aches and fever,” Dr. Stork says. “Eat a wholesome diet with plant-based foods that are loaded with antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables which will help your immune system fight off the infection. Get plenty of rest and if you get concerned, call your doctor.” Barbara Russo is a freelance writer who holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the City University of New York. She enjoys playing guitar, following current events, and hanging out with her pet rabbits.
Meet the
Health Care
Professional Dental Wellness of Suffern Sherri Alpert, D.D.S. 2 Executive Blvd., Suite 307, Suffern 845-918-1801 dentalwellnessofsuffern.com dentalwellness@optonline.net
Dr. Alpert is excited to offer drill free, needle free dentistry with the Solea CO2 Laser. Her practice offers comfortable cosmetic dentistry for the entire family including implants and full mouth reconstruction if necessary. Dental Wellness of Suffern provides natural, effective, quality dental care to make your visit as enjoyable, comfortable, and relaxing as possible. A parent herself, Dr. Alpert enjoys working with children who are apprehensive about the dentist, creating a fun environment with magic tricks, a wall mural, and a Find the Dental Helpers game.
Crystal Run Healthcare 2 Centerock Road, West Nyack 845-348-1100 crystalrunhealthcare.com
Crystal Run Healthcare is a premier multispecialty group medical practice with more than 400 providers, offering the convenience of Primary Care and nearly 50 medical specialties. Our state-of-the-art West Nyack facility offers patients easy access to quality health care with more than 20 medical and surgical specialties, including Adolescent Medicine, Pediatrics, Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, including Urogynecology. Our innovative facility boasts an Infusion Center, Urgent Care, diagnostic testing services, on-site laboratory services, diagnostic imaging, and women’s imaging. Crystal Run also has offices in Haverstraw, Stony Point, and Suffern.
Marita Smith, D.D.S. Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry 5C Medical Park Drive, Pomona 845-414-9626 smithslittlesmiles.com drsmith@smithslittlesmiles.com
Dr. Marita Smith is a board-certified pediatric dentist dedicated to providing excellent dental care for children from infancy through adolescence in a warm and friendly environment. As a mother of two, Dr. Smith knows how important it is for a child to be comfortable and stress-free during their dental visits. Dr. Smith places great focus on prevention and her goal is to keep your child’s smile healthy! Most insurances accepted. Evening and Saturday hours and 24-hour emergency service available. Se Habla Espanol.
RocklandParent 27
thanksgiving • Have a virtual dinner so the kids can see their relatives and share memories. These activities pose a moderate risk: • Have a small outdoor dinner with family and friends in your community (just be sure to always follow CDC guidelines for hosting outdoor gatherings). • Go for a family hike where people can maintain social distancing. Don’t forget the hand sanitizer and masks for when social distancing isn’t possible! And the CDC recommends avoiding: • Shopping in crowded stores before, on, or after Thanksgiving. (This probably isn’t the year to go crazy on Black Friday!) • Attending a crowded sports event or parade. • Attending large indoor gatherings with people outside your household. As much as we want things to return to normal, this isn’t the year to have a normal Thanksgiving celebration at Grandma’s house.
MAKE UP A NEW RITUAL Because this is already an unusual year, it might be just the right time to stage an alternative Thanksgiving. Think outside the box to make this holiday extra-special.
Watch a movie marathon. After enjoying the unique Macy’s
Here are some tips for how to celebrate Thanksgiving safely. By Jacqueline Neber
T
he holidays are normally a time to relax with your family, but this year the coronavirus has ensured that we won’t be having our usual Thanksgivings. Despite all the lowhanging anxiety and extra precautions, it’s still possible to have a good holiday this November—while also staying safe.
TIPS FROM THE CDC Although it might be customary for your family to head to Grandma’s house for a feast, traveling increases the risk of your family getting and spreading coronavirus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following lower risk activities: • Have a small dinner, with only the people who live in your household. • Prepare your favorite Thanksgiving recipes and drop the food off at the houses of friends and family.
Thanksgiving Day Parade from the comfort of your couch (the traditional extravaganza is on hold this year to avoid crowds), why not continue the day with some fall family favorites? Screen the classic A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, then watch as turkeys try to save the day (and their kin) in the animated Free Birds. Not rooting for any of the teams playing on Nov. 26, but still in the mood for football? Try Remember the Titans, Rudy, or Radio. And you can always start the holiday celebrations a little early with Elf, Home Alone, or Miracle on 34th Street.
Plan your own family turkey trot. Running (or walking) your own 5K is a great way for the whole family to get some exercise. Who needs other runners? This way, you’ll all win!
Have a friendly Thanksgiving dish competition. Do the kids love making chocolate chip cookies? Does your sister usually make a mean sweet potato pie? Invite family members to drop their favorite homemade dishes at your house—and then do a Zoom competition where you “judge” the best dish. Don’t forget to make something for them, too!
Invent your own tradition! It will help take your mind off the impact COVID-19 has had on all our lives—whether it’s a new recipe, an excursion, or a new activity—do something that you’ve never done as a family. Now is the time to start and incorporate it again next year!
Jacqueline Neber is a social journalism MA candidate at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY.
28
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
ad index
ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS / OUTINGS
Tumble-Bee..............................................................................................8
DreamWorks Animation - Gabby’s Dollhouse..........................................31 DreamWorks Animation - Jurassic World ..................................................7
BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES
Palisades Center.......................................................................................3
Tilly…A Deer’s Tale................................................................................19 Tumble-Bee..............................................................................................8
FITNESS
CHILD CARE / DAY CARE
Tumble-Bee..............................................................................................8
Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio.......................................................13
HEALTH
CLASSES
Crystal Run Healthcare.......................................................................2, 27
Code Ninjas, NJ......................................................................................19
Dental Wellness of Suffern................................................................17, 27
Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio.......................................................13
Miriam Aronoff, D.D.S., PLLC...................................................................13
Powerhouse Dance & PreSchool.............................................................17
MVP Health Care.....................................................................................5 Smith’s Little Smiles Pediatric Dentistry...............................................8, 27
DANCE Kreative Kids & Vicki’s Dance Studio.......................................................13 Powerhouse Dance & PreSchool.............................................................17
SPECIAL EVENTS Academy of the Holy Angels.....................................................................8
EDUCATION Academy of the Holy Angels.....................................................................8
SPECIAL NEEDS
Code Ninjas, NJ......................................................................................19
Green Meadow......................................................................................32
Green Meadow......................................................................................32 Powerhouse Dance & PreSchool.............................................................17
mommybites.com
babysitters Need a reliable, emergency babysitter to help your family during coronavirus? Find one through Mommybites’ Babysitter Board!
Find a Sitter RocklandParent 29
last word
What has been your favorite part of having your kids at home more? “We have more time to connect and less stress about where we have to be next.” —Natasha D’Anna (@twindollicious), Staten Island
, g crafts, nature n ri lo p ex st la b a orate “We are having e tried to incorp v I’ . re o m d n a , ject. recipes in every fun pro g in rn a le f o it b r a little a difficult year fo n ee b s a h is th I know one everything d s a h y il m fa r u nue to everyone, and o ealthy, and conti h , fe sa y a st to we can er.” year like no oth grow during this ttan ), Manha (@strollerinthecity —Brianne Manz
“Getting to understan d what makes them tic k on a deeper level. It help s me better parent ea ch child in more effective way, to push them to excel and shine.”
—Pamela Pekerman (@pamelapekerman), Westchester
“I LOVE having them near me and safe even though they drive me nuts 49 percent of the time. I love that we have dinner together every night (even more that my husband makes it!). I love that we bonded over Little House on the Prairie and have been watching our favorite childhood movies.” —Stacy Wallenstein (@themintchipmama), Long Island
“I’ve really enjoyed being able to witness the bond between my 11-year-old and 1-year-old. So many of those moments would be lost if my oldest was in school. Life has just slowed down more, which gives room for more beautiful little moments at home to witness.” —Danielle Sapienza (@danielleguentherphotos), Manhattan
“My favorite part of this new at-home work/schooling lifestyle is eating our meals together. Our lives were so busy, and I was constantly carpooling at the end of the day to various activities and eating on the go. I love that our family eats dinner together every night (and lunch most days).” —Katy Winter (@katys_organized_home), Westchester
30
October/November 2020 | nymetroparents.com
A NETFLIX A NETFLIX ORIGINAL ORIGINAL SERIES SERIES A NETFLIX A NETFLIX A NETFLIX ORIGINAL ORIGINAL ORIGINAL SERIES SERIES SERIES A NETFLIX A NETFLIX ORIGINAL ORIGINAL SERIES SERIES
GET READY GET READY FOR FOR CAT-TASTIC CAT-TASTIC SURPRISES! SURPRISES! GET GET READY GET READY READY FOR FORFOR CAT-TASTIC CAT-TASTIC CAT-TASTIC GET READY GET READY FOR FOR SURPRISES! SURPRISES! SURPRISES! CAT-TASTIC CAT-TASTIC SURPRISES! SURPRISES!
COMING COMING SOON SOON COMING COMING COMING SOON SOON SOON YOU YOU CAN YOU CAN CHECK CHECK CANOUT CHECK OUT GABBY'S GABBY'S OUT GABBY'S DOLLHOUSE DOLLHOUSE DOLLHOUSE ON ON YOUTUBE! YOUTUBE! ON YOUTUBE! COMING COMING SOON SOON
YOU CAN YOU CHECK CANOUT CHECK GABBY'S OUT GABBY'S DOLLHOUSE DOLLHOUSE ON YOUTUBE! ON YOUTUBE!
DreamWorks Gabby’s DreamWorks Dollhouse Gabby’s © 2020 Dollhouse DreamWorks © 2020 Animation DreamWorks LLC. Animation All rights reserved. LLC. All rights reserved
DreamWorks Gabby’s DreamWorks Gabby’s Dollhouse Dollhouse Gabby’s © 2020 Dollhouse © DreamWorks 2020 DreamWorks © 2020 Animation DreamWorks Animation LLC. Animation All LLC. rights All rights reserved. LLC. reserved. All rights reserved YOU CANYOU CHECK CANOUT CHECK GABBY'S OUT GABBY'S DOLLHOUSE DOLLHOUSE ONDreamWorks YOUTUBE! ON YOUTUBE!
DreamWorks Gabby’s DreamWorks Dollhouse Gabby’s © 2020 Dollhouse DreamWorks © 2020 Animation DreamWorks LLC. All Animation rights reserved. LLC. All rights reserved
ŠNATT MCFEE
A Waldorf Education, Outdoors For your children’s safety, we have reinvented many aspects of school life for Fall 2020 while remaining true to the core principles of Waldorf education. Small class sizes, new outdoor learning spaces, thoughtful safety protocols, and farm, forest, and field for our youngest students are just part of what we offer.
Now busing from Tarrytown and NYC!
845.356.2514 x302
gmws.org
