April 2015 Suffolk by PARENTGUIDE News

APRIL 2015

Suffolk Camp Directory Cool day & sleepaway camps plus programs

10 Tips for Play Dates & Special Needs Debating Pacifiers Should you use them?

www.parentguidenews.com Over 1,000 Exciting Family Events S

April 2015 I parentguide News I

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We Buy, Sell and Trade Gently Used Kids’ Stuff!

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Bring in your nearly new kids’ stuff, and we’ll pay you cash on the spot for all items accepted

HClothing • Infant To Size 10-12 (0-18 months must have tags) • Play Clothes • Dresswear • Outerwear

HShoes and Accessories

• Casual and Dress Shoes • Sleepwear

WE ACCEPT ALL SEASON APPAREL HFurniture

HEquipment

• Changing Tables & Dressers • Bassinets & Cradles

• High Chairs & Swings • Gates • Exersaucers • Pack N Plays • Bouncy Seats • Booster Seats (table) • Jumperoos

HBooks and Toys

• Children’s Books & DVDs • Infant-Preschool Toys • Outdoor Toys • Puzzles

Clothing must be New in good condition, of current style, freshly laundered and neatly organized or 419 Park Avenue South, York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Faxin boxes 212-447-7734 other folding containers. Toys, equipment and furniture items must include all original parts, be clean and

to:

From:

in good working condition and meet all industry safety standards. Because the safety of children is a top priority at Once Upon A Child, we are unable to purchase recalled or retrofitted products. We reserve the right to refuse items based on condition, current inventory levels and past experience.

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Used Item Buy Back Hours: Monday - Friday 9am - 1:30 pm & Saturday 9am - 12:30pm

Visit our website at

iSSue DAte: www.onceuponachildseaford.com

April 2015 Volume 32 • Number 4

Bir

10 Camp Search Questions..... 16

A look at leading day camps and summer programs.

P. 16

Tra

Special Needs

P. 12

516-579-4200

Ins

10 Tips for Play Dates........... 12

1089 Hicksville Rd., Seaford

¼ Mile North of Southern State Parkway (exit 29N, Rte. 107) STORE HOURS: Monday-Saturday 9 am-6:30 pm & Sunday 11am-5pm

Ess

Navigating social interactions with autism.

P. 28

Health & Fitness

We Teach Bicycle Riding.

Camp Directory........................ 18

Kid’s Stuff With Previous Experience

Private Lessons at Your Home or Site

To ask when looking for a summer camp.

Please call or fax your comments and/or ™oK.

SigNAture oF APProvAl:

Camp Coverage ProoF

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Bedtime Battles............... 28 Put soreness about sleep to rest.

P. 14

Features

Happy Earth Day................ 10 Inspire the next generation of environmentalists.

Paciﬁer Pros and Cons........ 14

Should you use soothers?

Woman oman mom

P.P.30xx

Embrace Your Image...................... 30 5 ways to thrive in a changing body.

Feeling Good, Looking Good......... 32

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CAMP OPen HOuse • APRIL 18, 2015 • 10AM-2PM

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Enjoy Our Fabulous Indoor Skating Facility and The Great Outdoors at Hidden Pond Park Day Camp!

ext. 201 Open To Children 4 Yrs.-10th Grade • Ice Skating • 4 or 5 Day Programs, 9am-4pm • Arts & Crafts • April 2015 Volume 32 • Number 4 Extended AM/PM Hours Available • Computers • Low Camper/Counselor Ratio • High Ropes • Nurse and EMTS On Staff Daily • Drama • Fun Theme Days • Go-Carts • Swimming 2X A Day • Mountain Biking • HEATED POOLS • All Sports From Archery To Volleyball •

April 2015 Volume 32 • Number 4

Contests

Camp Coverage

Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 29

10 Camp Search Questions..... 16

Messy Face Photo Contest........................................... 36

BIRTHDAY Children (min)...$225 • Your party package includes... IES... Ten• Special PARTDirectory........................ Camp “Icing On The 18• Free skating pass & special gift 24 ...ata summer the only twin, full size year round To ask when looking for ice skating facility in Suffolk County. camp. 00

Columns

ext. 2

Cake” Invitations A look at leading day camps and sum- for birthday child • Parents of Birthday child mer programs. • Two Hour Party

Don’t Miss....................................................................... 8

P. 16

This month’s entertainment and activities.

• 1 ¼ Hours of Skating admitted free (skate rentals free) • Reserved Table at the • $18 for each additional child over Time Out Cafe the original 10 • Balloons • Beginners? Half hour group • 12 oz. Soda & choice of Lessons are available for hot dog or pizza $4000 per instructor • Skate rentals • All paper goods

Travel.............................................................................. 33

Special Needs

P. 12

Destinations, product picks, and getaway tips.

Health............................................................................ 34 Insight and items for your family’s care.

10 Tips for ICE HOCKEY Play Dates........... 12

ICE SKATING • All Ages & Abilities • Beginner Programs for Boys and Girls • Emphasis on Fundamentals & Fun! • Competitions, recitals & shows • Unlimited FREE admission to public sessions for all program enrollees

Update........................................................................... 42 Essential products and information for your brood.

• Specialized programs for beginners social throughNavigating advanced, all ages • Introductory Learn interactions with autism. to Play Program, Ages 4-8 • In House Hockey League • Men’s Leagues • Hockey Clinics

Bonus

Calendar of Events........................................................ 35

P. 28

Health & Fitness ext. 209

A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, events, and performances.

ext. 248

Cover Credit: The Children’s Place

sCHOOLBattles............... OPen HOuse • APRIL Bedtime 28 18, 2015 • 10AM-2PM

Publisher Steve Elgort

Put soreness about sleep to rest. NY State LiceNSed FaciLitY

P. 14

ext. 260 Limited Openings

Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina

PROVIDE YOUR CHILD wITH THE ACADEMIC EDGE!

Managing Editor Donald McDermott

Call today for a guided tour! Features

Associate Editor Samantha Chan

• Art • Pre-Reading & Math Concepts • Science Computer Lab Happy Earth• Day................ 10 • Music Physical Education Inspire the•next generation of • Ice Skating • Dramatic Play environmentalists.

Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli

Paciﬁer Pros and Cons........ 14

Contributing Writers Anurag Agarwal, Luanne Bruneau, Princess Ivana Pignatelli Aragona Cortes, Gregory Hanley, Cara Koscinski, Jess Michaels

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Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti

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HaLF aNd FuLL daY cLaSSeS

Should you use soothers?

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Advertising Sales Representatives Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, Jennifer Serpi, Amy Smith, Rena Spangler, Felicia Stafford

Embrace Your Image...................... 30

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admission To any Public skaTing session

Submission of articles, photographs and artwork is welcome. All material must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. PARENTGUIDE News assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage of submitted material. PARENTGUIDE News reserves the unrestricted right to edit or otherwise alter submitted material for publication. PARENTGUIDE News, ISSN08961468, is published monthly by PG Media Network Corp., 101 E. Park Ave., #358, Long Beach, NY 11561; 212-213-8840. Copyright 2015 PGMNC. All rights reserved.

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Letter from the Editor In 2007, I moved to “the city” and started a quest I’ll never forget. I came to PARENTGUIDE News as a somewhat-recent college graduate, eager to learn as much as I could about publishing a magazine. Eight years later, I know what it takes to make an issue work from start to finish and from first draft to distribution. I now know what it means to pour your blood, sweat, and tears into something of which you can be proud. It’s with these thoughts in mind I pen my final editor’s letter for PARENTGUIDE News as new adventures beckon. And what about your upcoming adventures? Have you started to make summer plans for your family? Find help on your journey with “10 Camp Search Questions” by Jess Michaels. Discover the important points you’ll want to learn when deciding on a particular program. For extra excitement, turn to the Camp Directory, which is full of day and sleepaway camp options, as well as summer programs. With these resources at your fingertips, your child is sure to spend the summer making wonderful memories and forming new friendships! If your little one could use a boost on the social scene outside of the camp experience, check out “10 Tips for Play Dates” by Cara Koscinski. The article shares insightful tips to encourage social interactions among children with autism and their peers. Making and maintaining

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by Rachel Kalina

friendships mark important milestones in a child’s life, and Koscinski’s points can help your family with these essential skills. Another milestone for some youngsters is the first time they use or outgrow a pacifier. Parents have long debated the use of soothers to placate outcries. “Pacifier Pros and Cons” by Luanne Bruneau outlines what you need to know no matter your current opinion. After reading the April articles and upping your parenting ante, you deserve to treat yourself for being the most informed mom or dad you can be. Enter to win the exciting prizes available now at www.parentguidenews.com and through the Messy Face Photo Contest. Plus, stop by The Sandbox Social blog to spark your travel bug and virtually join mom Merrie and family on their local trips this spring. Now it’s time to hand over PARENTGUIDE News to experienced editors Samantha Chan and Donald McDermott. Collectively, they have accumulated decades of time at the magazine, and they will continue to bring you the most cutting-edge and relevant parenting content out there. Thank you for being a wonderful audience and trusting me with your precious time these past years.

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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

All the best,

St. Patrick Youth Community SPRING/SUMMER • Baseball • Spring/Summer deck hockey • Softball • Summer Basketball for Girls & Boys (4th grade to 12th grade) • Lacrosse • Aftercare • Mommy & Me • Fitness Classes

Adult Classes Forming NOW!

CALL FOR INFO REGARDING SUMMER CAMP 2015

Contact Cindy at 631-360-0257 spyouth@optonline.net

St. Patrick R.C. Church 280 E. Main St., Smithtown your needs, your neighborhood

Call now for info or registration details

631-360-0257

www.stpatsyouth.com April 2015 I parentguide News I

DoN’T MiSS To The Dogs

A reluctant hero’s town is threatened when his long-time rival returns to avenge an old grudge in Underdogs (The Weinstein Company).When the players from his foosball table magically comes to life, he recruits them to help him save the town and win back the love of his life. Enjoy all of the action in theaters beginning April 10.

So Sweet

The adorable brother and sister bunny team is back on DVD in Max & Ruby: Sweet Siblings (Paramount Home Media Distribution).The new release features 12 episodes of the hit Nickelodeon preschool series based on acclaimed author Rosemary Wells’ classic children’s books. Pick up or order your copy today.

Vegas Cop

After six years of keeping shoppers safe, our favorite security guard takes a well-deserved vacation in Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 (Columbia Pictures). Blart and his teenage daughter head to Vegas before she goes off to college, only to find that safety never takes a holiday. Featuring Kevin James in the title role, the new flick opens on April 17.

New Additions

Popcornflix Kids presents the addition of new kid-friendly content.The entire channel is devoted to popular children’s TV shows and movies, all available to stream for free. New content includes: Musti, a popular 3D-animated series, and The Wompkees movies. Check your local listings.

Pet Shop Pals

Making new friends is the theme when Shout! Factory and Hasbro Studios bring Littlest Pet Shop: Pet Shop Pals to DVD. Join in on the fun as Blythe and a few of her best friends, create a fashion craze and have lots of fun. Pick up your copy in stores or online today.

April

by Donald McDermott

Batter Up!

Sony makes the upcoming baseball season even more exciting with the release of MLB 15 The Show! The 10th-anniversary edition features up-to-date equipment, major graphical improvements, and the addition of 30 iconic MLB alumni. Created especially for the PlayStation 4, MLB 15 The Show is available now.

Delightfully Diverse

Grammy award-winning children’s music duo Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer present their latest CD, Dancin’ in the Kitchen: Songs for all Families. Created to celebrate the growing diversity of family structures, the CD highlights the idea that families are bound by love, with music celebrating that love and diversity. Find out more at www.cathyandmarcy.com.

Jungle Adventures

Manu and Sacha are two young raccoons living in the Mexican rainforest in Jungle Shuffle from Viva Pictures.Available now, the animated release follows the mischievous Manu as he makes some special friends and sets out on a thrilling adventure to save Sacha from the clutches of the mysterious Dr. Loco.

Monster Mania

Created for the Nintendo 3DS, Monster Hunter 4 is a role-playing game developed by Capcom. The new game comes complete with online play, new weapons, more vertical environments, returning favorites, and fresh challenges. Pick up your copy today.

Track Your Pets

Fall in love with the wearable Pet Tech from Gibi, the first GPSenabled pet tracking service! Gibi makes it easy to track pets and reunite them with their owners in the easiest, fastest, and most fashionable way possible. For more information visit www.getgibi.com.

Donald McDermott is the managing editor.

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April Overnight at the Aquarium

The Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center, 431 East Main St., Riverhead, is the place to be during the Where the Wild Things Snore Reptile Sleepover from April 9 to 10. This overnight adventure is the ultimate reptile experience as participants enjoy a guided tour, fun facts, a movie presentation, and a spot to sleep among the aquarium tanks. Registering in advance is necessary. Questions? Call the aquarium at (631)208-9200.

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Fair Festivities

by Donald McDermott

Dreams Come True

Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and all of their friends are back in an allnew show when Disney Live! presents Three Classic Fairy Tales. Dream with the princesses and cheer for the heroes as some of your favorite stories are brought to life in a theatrical experience that’s pure magic. Shows are held on April 16 and 17 at the Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale. For tickets and more, call (516)794-9300 or visit www.nassaucoliseum.com.

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Paint and Play Breakfast with the Bunny Children ages 5 and older are Hop into the spirit of the season durwww.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 invited to get creative and ing the Easter Bunny Breakfast at the

Treat your whole family to a celebration of life at the All Kids 5th Annual Fair on April 26. The day-long show features an array of vendors with kid-centered products and services, camp and tutoring information, health professionals, classes for kids, live entertainment, and much more. The festivities are held at the Melville Marriott, 1350 Old Walt Whitman Road, Melville. Call (516)621-1446 or log onto www.allkidsfair.com to find out more.

have lots of fun during the special Paint & Play program at Darlings and Divas. They supply the canvas; paints; and instruction; as well as a pizza lunch, dessert, and a dance party to wrap up the day! The events are held on April 7 and April 9. Darlings and Divas is located at 65 Merrick Road in Amityville. Contact them at (631)608-4710 or at www.darlingsanddivas.com for reservations and more information.

Vanderbilt Museum & Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport. The April 4 morning event includes an egg hunt, bonnet and basket parade, planetarium show, delicious foods, and a visit from the Easter Bunny! Reservations are required. Hold your place by calling the museum today at (631)854-5568. Donald McDermott is the managing editor.

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Awaken a world of fun, learning and friendships for your child. Call to arrange a tour. 631.213.6499

Brightwaters (Bay Shore) Islip Miller Place East Setauket Nesconset Greenlawn Hicksville

FREE REGISTRATION! Offer expires 4/30/2015. New customers only. Not redeemable for cash. One offer per child. Contact academy for details.

INFANTS • TODDLERS • PRESCHOOL • BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL • SUMMER CAMP your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I

veryone seems to be talking about the planet these days! There is a level of awareness and concern that we have never seen before. However, no one seems to be talk talking to the generation that will be the most impacted by the state of the planet: our kids. There is a clear need to bring our kids into the conversation for conservation. The conversation needs to be introduced by the most influential people in the lives of kids: their parents.

As Earth Day approaches on April 22, it is a great time to reconsider the way we think about our planet and how we want to pass it along to our childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s generation who will be inheriting it. Instead of being overwhelmed with facts and fears, doom and gloom, I would like to propose a much simpler approach that showcases the beauty and inspira-

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tion that can be found in what have always been very fun and positive subjects: nature and wildlife. The approach is simple: Let kids be kids. This may be counterintuitive to the path often taken by conservation-focused groups, activists, and members of the scientific community, but it is key in inviting and engaging kids to participate in the discussion.

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According to a nationwide poll from The Nature Conservancy, “There is a growing disparity between the time kids spend indoors wired to technology and the time they spend outside enjoying nature. The vast majority of today’s kids uses a computer, watch TV, or play video games on a daily basis, but only about 10 percent say they are spending time outdoors every day.” Common risks faced by kids not spending time outdoors range from obesity and a lack of communication skills to the inability to appreciate and understand how nature works. This sounds rather obvious if you are a parent who spent more time outdoors when you were young, climbing trees and getting dirty by using all your senses in nature. We have to all agree that to save the planet and its species, we have to first inspire the generation that will inherit the planet. To inspire them, we have to develop in them a love for the planet. After all, you cannot protect something you do not love, and you only love what you understand. There are many things you can do to help your kids explore and discover nature and the outdoors.

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ties around stories, like a trip to the local zoo or aquarium, a hike, or a visit to a park or nature reserve to have your own adventures.

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Gamify the experience. Kids love games and questions. Whether indoors or outdoors, turn every experience into a game or quiz! Discuss facts about amazing ecosystems and species, the symbiotic relationships that exist in nature, and other fun trivia.

Gift nature-related toys and gadgets. Get your kids simple discovery tools like a compass, magnifying lens, etc., and create activities that revolve around using them.

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Take advantage of the natural resources available in your area. Take your kids canoeing, kayaking, or hiking. These are great weekend activities that allow for quality family time.

Kids • (and212-213-8840 parents too!) need a daily dose of nature in their life. www.parentguidenews.com With a little bit of effort and lot of intent, you can make that happen.

Here are five easy things you can do with your kids to connect them to nature:

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Take the first steps in doing your part for the planet and inspiring your kids to understand how nature works. Happy Earth Day!

Identify the closest nature experience to where you live. It may be your backyard, the street or cul-de-sac where you live, or a park. Spend time with your kids there as often as you can. Kids who are accompanied are more likely to venture out than by themselves.

Anurag Agarwal, impact investor, academic, and social entrepreneur, is the Founder and C.E.O. of Junior Explorers Inc. This edu-tech company teaches elementary-aged kids about wildlife and nature in a fun, interactive, and engaging way through a monthly subscription-based program. You can learn more about Tie outdoor adventures to stories. Kids love stories and will be the company at www.juniorexplorers.com and contact Agarwal at inspired to explore what they read or hear about. Plan activianurag@juniorexplorers.com.

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April 2015 I parentguide News I 11

10 TFIOPRS

by Cara Koscinski

Play Dates Navigating social interactions with autism.

lay dates are beneficial for all children. They enable kids to practice critical social skills on which future relationships will be built. The benefits of play dates include: increasing confidence, improving social decision making, and practicing skills in an adult-supervised yet natural setting. Playing together allows youngsters to be a part of the action versus being quiet observers. Play typically develops in a natural progression from individual play to parallel play (when children play next to each other) and finally to interactive/social reciprocal play. Many parents of children who are typically developing and those with special needs set up play dates to encourage the building of critical skills and friendships. The most important lesson learned from playing with a variety of children is that every person is different and special! Throughout life, we meet and interact with people of all shapes, sizes, and abilities. Learning from others can truly enhance our lives. To make the most of the current Autism Awareness Month, here are some tried and true tips I recommend for setting up play dates with children who are on the autism spectrum.

1. Practice playing.

It may be hard to believe, but the act of playing doesn’t come naturally to some kids. For example, children with autism often have difficulty with taking turns, having conversations, and interpreting nonverbal gestures. Practicing and explaining these concepts to your child may help him to feel more comfortable. For example, ask your child, “What is a facial expression?” Then, make different faces, and have your child guess your emotion. Together, discuss strategies that can be used to help facilitate play.

2. Find children with common interests.

Teachers are amazingly insightful and may be able to identify the children who tend to play together well in school and enjoy similar interests. Volunteer in your child’s classroom to see with whom your child is interested in playing. Additionally, birthday parties are great opportunities to observe potential play date matches. Clubs and activities allow children with similar interests to enjoy each other’s company. My son showed an early interest in chess. I would often arrive early to pick him up from chess club and to determine who showed an interest in my son. The same is true for Lego club, music classes, art programs, or sports activities.

3. Ask questions. Remember that parents of children with special needs are used to answering questions about their children and are often quite comfortable discussing ways to help create successful social interactions. Also, be mindful that many families’ schedules are busy, but a child with special needs may have additional appointments for therapy, medical, and developmental concerns. Be flexible in scheduling, and do not be offended if the play date needs to be re-scheduled.

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4. Shared interests can make a play date successful.

Identify what the children have in common. Build activities upon mutual interests. So, set up Legos and build structures. If the children like the same movie, set up puzzle, art, baking, or sensory play activities based on the movie. Consider meeting at a location such as a park or museum. Siblings should not be a part of the play date to allow for targeted friendship building between the two participants.

5. Make a plan, and then review it with both children who are participating.

Explain what the play date will look like: First, we will work on a puzzle, and then we will have a snack, etc. Many children who have special needs benefit from a visual schedule and knowing exactly what is coming up next. All of us enjoy predictability and feel more confident with a specific plan in place. However, be flexible if any difficulties or disagreements arise.

6. Consider food allergies and sensitivities.

When planning a snack menu, contact the other child’s parent to determine which foods are safe for both children. It can be very meaningful for the other parent and is a critical step to avoiding potential life-threatening reactions to foods. Do not be offended if the children do not eat what is set out for snack. The kids may just be too excited to eat!

7. Be mindful of any physical limitations.

For example, many children with sensory issues do not prefer to get messy, dirty, or wet, but they can be super at doing other things such as building or creating. It’s always a sensitive topic to talk about someone’s weaknesses; instead ask, “What is Billy great at doing?”

8. Provide adult supervision and support throughout the play date.

Since children of all abilities have different personalities, disagreements may arise. Consider ways to resolve conflicts such as asking both kids to take five deep breaths or closing their eyes and counting to 10. Make sure to ask the other parent which strategies are used when his child becomes stressed or upset. Preparation is a key ingredient in successful interaction when facilitating a play date.

9. Begin with short play dates of an hour.

Keep the first play times shorter until the children become more comfortable with each other. It’s important to end on a good note. So, if the children are in any type of conflict, help to facilitate a peaceful ending.

10. There is no such thing as a perfect play date!

Do not put unnecessary pressure on yourself. Both typically developing kids and children with special needs are learning while practicing play and social skills. When learning a skill, we all make mistakes. Our children benefit from every social interaction opportunity. Give yourself a pat on the back, and enjoy watching new friendships bloom and develop.

Cara Koscinski, MOT, OTR/L, is a pediatric occupational therapist, author, entrepreneur, and mother of two children with special needs. In addition to writing and conducting private consultations, Cara frequently shares her personal and professional knowledge, expertise, and experience as a pediatric OT and special needs parent with groups and organizations nationwide. Cara is the author of The Pocket Occupational Therapist for Families of Children with Special Needs (Jessica Kingsley Pub) and The Special Needs School Survival Guide: Handbook for Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, ADH, Learning Disabilities, & More! (CreateSpace) For more information, please visit www.pocketot.com. your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 13

Should you use soothers? by Luanne Bruneau

ost of the parents that come to me for help regarding their baby’s sleep wonder whether they should be giving their child a pacifier. General recommendations are not to introduce one for the first four weeks of life, until breastfeeding is well established, so as not to cause nipple confusion. Around the world, there is a large variation in the amount of pacifier usage in infants and toddlers. While I often hear parents voicing their concern about long-term dependency being the main issue affecting the decision, there are other risks and benefits to consider, too. An excellent recent review in the Journal of Pediatric Nursing describes the benefits and risks in greater detail, but below are the main points to consider.

What are the benefits? Self-soothing

• Sucking is widely acknowledged to be a healthy reflexive means for an infant to self-soothe, calm, reorganize, and deal with stress. • Pacifiers may serve as a transitional object to decrease separation anxiety for toddlers.

Reduces the risk of SIDS

• A number of studies have consistently shown a reduction in the risk of SIDS associated with pacifier usage, especially if used when putting an infant to sleep. • Theories for why there is a “protective effect” are that there may be increased arousal responsiveness in frequent pacifier users and that the position of the tongue when using a pacifier reduces the risk of oropharyngeal obstruction. Using a pacifier may also encourage mouth breathing if nasal obstruction should occur during sleep. • While the protective effect is not well understood, the American Academy of Pediatrics does recommend pacifier usage in infants during sleep in the first year of life.

Pain relief?

• Sucrose has been documented to relieve pain in neonates undergoing painful procedures, and the use of a pacifier along with sucrose appeared to have a synergistic effect. Even so, Health Canada doesn’t recommend you put anything sweet on a pacifier, especially not honey! • Another meta-analysis suggested that either sucrose or breast milk, with or without non-nutritive sucking, appears to be safe and effective in relieving procedural pain.

What are the risks? Oral health and malformation of the teeth

• Malformation of the teeth and potential detriments to oral health are major concerns, but a recent meta-analysis shows that pacifier usage doesn’t significantly impact the teeth if discontinued by age 2-3 years.

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Negative impact on breastfeeding

• There are worries about nipple confusion as some studies indicate an association between the usage of pacifiers and poor breastfeeding outcomes. • In regions where breastfeeding rates are low, pacifier usage may be discouraged before breastfeeding is well established.

Otitis media/ear infections

• So far there isn’t enough evidence to be sure of a link between pacifier usage and acute otitis media (AOM). • There are some convincing studies that there is a causal relationship between pacifier usage and AOM. • One study followed infants for five years and found that pacifier usage was associated with a 1.8 times greater risk of AOM. • With regards to AOM, the AAP recommends that parents reduce or eliminate pacifier usage in the second six months of life. However, the recommendation hasn’t been reaffirmed due more recent suggestions to use pacifiers as a means to reduce the risk of SIDS.

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these days, but latex allergies still exist. There are, however, alternative materials from which to choose.

Introduction of infection

• Silicone is slightly more resistant to fungal colonization than latex, but it is not significantly different, and pacifiers may act as passive vectors of disease. • Dentists would also discourage parents with active dental caries from “cleaning” soothers that have fallen on the ground with their own saliva for risk of passing caries onto their children’s developing teeth. So as you can see, the debate on pacifier usage is still ongoing. Parents will have to make their own personal decision based on the available information on benefits and risks associated with pacifier use. Most of the risks can be avoided by ensuring that there is no nipple confusion early on, using materials that are hypoallergenic, and using proper sanitation to avoid possible transmission of infection. As far as sleep goes, I feel that pacifiers are not a problem, unless you have to go in all night and replace them when your child is perfectly capable of doing this for himself.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Latex allergy

• Parents are much more cautious of materials in baby products

Luanne Bruneau, M.Sc., is a graduate of the Family Sleep Institute, a top child sleep consultant certification program, and founder of Baby Sleep Right, a child sleep company in Nova Scotia, Canada. She believes that because her family was able to find a sleep solution, there are solutions for other families, too. That’s why she decided to take the certification course offered at the Family Sleep Institute, which is recognized by the International Association of Child Sleep Consultants, to educate herself on the elements that affect healthy sleep habits. Bruneau has a passion for teaching and helping other families find sleep solutions that work, and she can potentially help yours, too. Visit www.babysleepright.com for more information.

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by Jess Michaels

Camp Search Questions

To ask when looking for a summer camp.

Photo credit: American Camp Association® Happy Hollow Children’s Camp, Nashville, Indiana

When looking for a summer camp for your child, it’s important to do your research. Each camp is different, and you want to make sure the camp you choose is the right camp for your child while also meeting certain criteria. At a minimum, parents should consider asking the following 10 questions when researching summer camps. Finding out the answers to these questions will help you make an informed camp decision.

1) What is your camp’s philosophy and mission? Each camp has its own philosophy and mission. A camp director should be able to clearly explain the philosophy and mission, and parents should consider whether it matches their own family’s values.

2) What is the camp program, and what type of child is successful in your program? Ask about the camp program and what activities the camp offers. Parents should think of what the must-have activities are for their child and make sure the camp offers them. Also ask the camp director about what type of child is a successful participant in their program, and see if it matches a description of your child.

3) Who is the camp director, and what type of training/education does he have? Parents want to learn about the camp director and make sure they click with him. Families want to know Photo credit: American Camp Association® Camp Echo in Coleman High Country, Merrick, NY

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who is caring for their child. Get to know the camp director through phone calls, e-mails and in-person visits. Inquire about the camp director’s background and whether he is a year-round camp professional or a seasonal employee. Year-round camp professionals spend the year planning for camp and focus their program on youth development. The American Camp Association recommends directors possess a bachelor’s degree, have completed in-service training within the past three years, and have at least 16 weeks of camp administrative experience before assuming the responsibilities of director.

4) What is the staff composition? Inquire about the age of the staff, their experience, pre-season and on-going staff trainings, background checks, the interview process, camper-to-staff ratios, and supervision in bunks and various activities. At a minimum, camp staff should be trained in safety regulations, emergency procedures, communication, behavior management techniques, appropriate staff and camper behavior, and specific procedures for supervision.

5) What enrollment options do you offer? Ask what the length of the program is, and make sure it works with your child’s summer schedule. If you are looking into day camp, ask about how long the day is, whether half days or a couple of days a week are options, and whether there is before and after care.

6) How do you handle special considerations?

Photo credit: American Camp Association® Camp Pemigewassett, Wentworth, NH

8) What percentage of the campers return each year? A large number of returning campers is usually a good indication of a high level of satisfaction with the camp’s programming and operation.

9) Is your camp accredited by the American Camp Association?

If your child takes medication, has food allergies, has religious obligations, etc., make sure you ask the camp director how these considerations are handled. You want to be upfront about your child’s needs and make sure the camp can handle anything your child might need.

The American Camp Association (ACA) is a nonprofit organization that has the only camp accreditation program in the country. Ask if the program has chosen to participate. ACA chooses summer camps based upon 300 health, safety, and program standards. It goes well beyond what is required by the Department of Health, addressing specific areas of programming, personnel, health care, emergency response, management practices, and youth development.

7) What are the safety procedures at camp?

10) May I have references?

Inquire about the camp’s safety measures that are in place. These include asking about a medical professional on property, emergency plans, staff screening procedures, instructor qualifications, water safety, and transportation.

Parents should ask the camp director for references and call a few camp families for their feelings on camp. Ask about the camp director, staff, communication policies, activities, and overall satisfaction with the camp.

Jess Michaels is the Director of Communications for the American Camp Association, NY and NJ. ACA-Accreditation is a parent’s best evidence of a camp’s commitment to health and safety, and it ensures that children are provided with a diversity of educational and developmentally challenging learning opportunities. Families who need assistance with finding a summer camp can call the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey’s Camper Placement Specialist, Renee Flax, at (212)391-5208 for free, one-on-one advice in finding a camp for their child. Visit www.searchforacamp.org for more information. your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 17

Discover Some of the Area’s Best Summer Camps and Programs Day Camps/Summer Programs

BounceU Farmingdale 101 Carolyn Boulevard, Farmingdale, NY 11735 (631)777-JUMP (5867) Art League of Long Island farmingdale.ny@bounceu.com 107 East Deer Park Road, Dix Hills, NY 11746 www.bounceu.com/cities/farmingdale.ny (631)462-5400 Having been voted “Best Camp on Long Island 2011” by Long Island info@artleagueli.org Press, BounceU of Farmingdale is taking imagination to new heights. www.artleagueliregistration.org BounceU’s Create and Bounce drop-off program is a complete workSummer Art Adventure is an intensive, “thematic” art education expeout for artists ages 4-10. It gives children a daily balance of playtime rience for enthusiastic art aficionados ages 5-17. A dedicated faculty and artistic expression to cultivate creativity. In addition to bouncing, of art education professionals has provided outstanding instruction 419 Park Avenue South,and 13thexploring Floor, Newtheir York,inner NY 10016 212-213-8840 • Faxof212-447-7734 laughing, artists,• kids enjoy an array games in a studio environment for 19 years. Weekly themes are carefully and activities. With a unique blend of upbeat exercises and dedicated designed and focus on age-appropriate projects. Children ages 5 to 12 time for painting and projects, Create are grouped with peers and will learn drawing, painting, crafts, to:and FAxand # Bounce offers an experience that’s healthy, mentally engaging, and seriously fun. Lesson themes sculpture. For teens, there are projects in drawing, painting, ceramics, are changed each week to ensure that every day is distinctly different. sculpture, digital design, mixed media, drawing from the figure, and iSSue DAte: includes a specially The one-of-a-kind Create and Bounce experience portfolio preparation. Budding artists will enjoy creating art From: using themed art curriculum, jumping, snacks and BounceU camp T-shirts. these different mediums. Choose from Early Childhood programs Mini camp sessions are available July through August. BounceU also (ages 5-6) or Young Artists (ages 7-12) in one-to-four-week sessions, Please callbirthday or faxparties, your comments and/or hosts exciting awesome open bounce oK. sessions, club running July 7 to August 1; Teens (ages 12-14) in two-to-four-week and team outings, fundrasiers, field trips and more. It was voted Long sessions, running July 7 to August 1; or Teen Portfolio (ages 14-17) Island’s “Best Children’s Party Place” and “Best Family Amusement in three-to-six-week sessions, running July 7 to August 15. Locations: SigNAture Place” oF APProvAl: by Long Island Press. The facility features enormous slide and Early Childhood and Young Artists at Elwood Middle School, Teen and inflatable games, like boxing and basketball, as well as obstacle courses. Teen Portfolio at the Art League center. Enrollment is limited. Call for Cleanliness and safety are top priorities at BounceU, where the ever-ata brochure or register at www.artleagueliregistration.org.

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Continued on page 20.

ITALIAN

Language Littles

Benvenuti!

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Ongoing Enrollment for Spring 2015 Registration

MAKE BEAUTIFUL MUSIC TOGETHER.

Exciting family classes—a rich musical environment that encourages your infant, toddler, or preschooler to explore the joy of music. Find out what beautiful music you and your family can make together.

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We Offer Classes for Children Ages 2 and Up.

Experience the Fun & Excitement of Learning Italian!

Classes held at: Wind ’n Willow Preschool Classes in Long Island and Queens. MusicTogetherLI-Queens.com

18 I parentguide News I April 2015

1201 North Broadway • Massapequa, NY

For more info, call 631-957-3321 or visit italianlanguagelittles.com parentguidenews.com

CAMP DIRECTORY

your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 19

CAMP DIRECTORY tentive staff provides superior customer service. Call to learn about early registration discounts for, or with questions about, Create and Bounce or other events and programs. BounceU Smithtown 62 Lake Ave., Nesconset, NY 11767 (631)265-JUMP (5867) nesconset.ny@bounceu.com www.bounceu.com/nesconset-ny Create and Bounce Art Camp at BounceU gives children ages 4-11 a chance to enjoy physical activity and artistic expression in equal doses. A little bit of exercise goes a long way towards inspiring young artists’ minds. The program, hosted at BounceU’s climate-controlled play and party center, includes snacks, arts and crafts projects, games, activities, and memorable camp experiences. With its unique blend of upbeat exercises and dedicated time for painting and projects, Create and Bounce offers an experience that’s healthy, mentally engaging, and seriously fun. The program runs for three hours at a time. Create and Bounce’s carefully developed curriculum includes theme-based lessons in drawing, painting, sculpting, mixed media, and more. It’s everything a young artist needs to grow. The program is led by a well-trained staff of camp counselors and an experienced art instructor. A low staff-to-camper ratio of one to ten allows for individualized attention. Children get to bounce on ten giant inflatable rides in between creating, so parents may get a break. Enroll for a day, a week, or the entire summer! Camp St. Patrick St. Patrick R.C. Church 280 East Main St., Smithtown, NY 11787 (631)724-1261 / (631)863-2029 spcamp@optonline.net www.stpatsyouth.com For decades, Camp St. Patrick has provided summer fun and fel-

20 I parentguide News I April 2015

lowship for children ages 3-16. It emphasizes Christian values throughout all programs. Experienced staff treats each child as an individual in an environment that allows them to live according to their faith. Daily activities include arts and crafts, sports, music, story time, and talent shows. Kickline and cheerleading camps are available, as are before- and after-camp programs. St. Patrick’s runs in week-long sessions from June to August, with weeks seven and eight being for travel only. Each week offers two trips to attractions like Splish Splash and Adventure Land. Kiddie Camp gives children ages 3-5 the option of a half- or full-day experience during the same sessions as main camp. In addition to the activities enjoyed by older counterparts, those in Kiddie Camp attend weekly Mass, receive snacks and take optional nearby field trips. They visit the game room, sports court, main camp art room, and other on-site activities. Both camps provide lunch and access to off-site pools and beaches for swimming. Teachers provide a safe, comfortable place to explore and learn. Camp St. Patrick looks forward to its upcoming season while working hard to make it the best one yet. New to the main camp: two-, three-, and five-day sessions each week are available. Camps ‘R’ Us® Baldwin, Bellmore, Farmingdale, Hicksville, Valley Stream, West Islip (516)935-2267 info@campsrus.org www.campsrus.org Camps ‘R’ Us is a community of campers, parents, and staff members who come together each summer to create a safe, nurturing environment that supports healthy learning by promoting physical, intellectual, and emotional growth. The camp provides one of the most safe, fun, and affordable summer day camp experiences available. Its award-winning camp programs offer children ages

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CAMP DIRECTORY 3-15 a diverse summer experience, including sports, arts and crafts, gaming, swimming, bowling, trips, special events, and much more. The campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier (and conveniently located) facilities, top-notch staff, and unique affordability have earned it the reputation of being one of the best summer camps on Long Island. Looking forward to seeing you this summer at Camps â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Râ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Us: Where summer vacation is their job!

over; Monster High Day; Scrapbooking Day; Fashion Design Day; Rock Star Day; Cupcake Decorating Day; and more. Each available camp week is unique, so campers may attend as often as they like without repeating crafts. Call to reserve a spot as space is limited. Sibling and multiple-week discounts are available. Camps run August 11-15, 18-22, and 25-29 between 10am and 1pm, Monday through Friday.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium Destination Science 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724 Nassau County: Garden City, Jericho, Manhasset, Merrick, Wantagh (516)692-6768 Suffolk County: Babylon, Commack, Huntington, Lindenhurst, fisheducator@cshfha.org Sayville, Setauket, Stony Brook www.cshfha.org Westchester County: Larchmont, Mt. Kisco, New Rochelle, Rye, Give your young explorer a summer surrounded by nature. EnTarrytown, White Plains, Yonkers courage a love of science with week-long programs for children New Jersey: Caldwell, Kinnelon, Morristown, Paramus, Ramsey, in grades pre-k through 12. Participants get wet and muddy while Township of Washington, Westwood investigating nature. Call or visit the website for more informa(888)909-2822 tion. Attend an open house to meet the educators and learn more www.destinationscience.org on May 14, 4-7pm. Destination Science is the fun science day camp for curious kids 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax 212-447-7734 ages 5 to 11! Build a robot, explore the science behind superheroes, Darlings & Divas Summer Glamour Camp solve a galactic mystery, and more. Destination Science kids have TO: NY 11701 FAX # moments of creativity and discovery while building, experi65 Merrick Road, Amityville, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Aha!â&#x20AC;? (631)608-4710 menting, and playing with astonishing gadgets and fantastic gizmos. info@darlingsanddivas.com Top-notch, enthusiastic educators and leaders make S.T.E.M. learnISSUE DATE: darlingsanddivas.com FROM: ing an adventure! Destination Science programs advance important Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want your diva to be bored during the summer? Send her life skills such as: problem solving, collaboration, perseverance, to Divalicious Glamour Camp, back with expanded schedules due creativity, caring, decision making, and curiosity! Four exciting calldifferent or faxthemes your comments and/or to popular demand! Each camp weekPlease features camps are offered:OK. Amazing Superhero Science, Dino-Robot Crewith coordinating crafts and lunch. Themes include Artist Day; ators & Raging Chemistry, Roaring Rockets & Astronaut DetecRelaxing Spa Day, which SIGNATURE is filled with manicures, pedicures, and tives, and Rock Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Roll Gizmos & Gadgets. Fun, hands-on science OF APPROVAL: makeovers; Snowflakes in the Summer, a Frozen-inspired day; projects are daily included along with outdoor games. Camp is held Ballerina Day, where divas take a ballet class and receive a makeat multiple neighborhood locations, Monday through Friday, 9am to

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April 2015 I parentguide News I 21

CAMP DIRECTORY 3:30pm. Extended care is available. Find schedules and registration information at the website. Special savings are offered for early birds, multi-camp enrollment, and siblings. Friends Academy Summer Camps Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560 (516)393-4207 camp@fa.org www.fasummercamp.org Friends Academy Summer Camps offers exciting programs for children ages 2-14 from 9:30am-4:30pm. All programs provide a safe environment where children learn new skills and make new friends. The General Camp (for ages 2-7) provides a well-rounded program that includes physical education, arts and crafts, music, tennis, science, playground time, two daily swimming periods and special events. Families can choose from four- to eight-week sessions. Children are placed in small groups by age and gender. The Academy program (for ages 8-13) offers one- to eight-week options. Boys and girls have the opportunity to work on individual and group skills in a well-structured environment that provides instruction and fair competition. The new one-week format allows campers to change activity selections each week. Friends Academy offers more than 24 activity choices, including fine arts, computers, travel, baseball, basketball, dance, golf, horseback riding, ice hockey, ice skating, boys’ and girls’ lacrosse, sailing, soccer, softball, N.F.L. flag football, fencing, gymnastics, tennis, computer game design, digital and video design, robotics design, circus arts, multi-sport, cheerleading, and the Friends Academy Club and Travel program. The C.I.T. Program (for ages 14-15) allows students to intern in an area of interest while learning leadership and child care skills. Camp tuition includes hot and cold lunches, towel service and airconditioned transportation. Call to find out more about the upcom-

22 I parentguide News I April 2015

ing season and open house dates. Office hours: Monday-Saturday, 9am-4pm. Visit www.fasummercamp.org. Hidden Pond Summer Day Camp at The Rinx 660 Terry Road, Hauppauge, NY 11787 (631)232-3222, ext. 201 www.therinx.com From arts and crafts to go-carts, Hidden Pond Summer Day Camp offers every activity kids love, all under one roof! Children ages 4 years through grade 10 enjoy swimming in one of the heated pools, ice skating, edible art, dance, rock climbing, mountain biking, drama, computers, a games den, fun theme days, high ropes and just about any sport imaginable. The camp provides a daily lunch and snack, a low counselor-to-camper ratio and a highly qualified staff, including certified lifeguards/WSIs, two ER nurses and two EMTs to ensure your child’s safety at all times. The camp runs from June to August, with a minimum of three of the eight weeks required. Choose from five days (Monday-Friday) or four days (Monday-Thursday). The hours are 9am-4pm, with extended morning and evening hours available. The Rinx also offers a Summer Hockey School (ext. 248), providing instruction for beginners through advanced players, and a Figure Skating School (ext. 209), providing “Learn to Skate” through “Advanced Figure Skating” programs (ages 3½ to adult). Programs this good fill up fast, so enroll now! Italian Language Littles, Inc. 40 Kings Park Road, Commack, NY 11725 (631)957-3321 www.italianlanguagelittles.com Benvenuti! Welcome to Italian Language Littles, where students experience the fun and excitement of learning Italian! Children can enroll in a language immersion workshop, in which they learn Ital-

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CAMP DIRECTORY ian through hands-on experiences, music and movement, games, storytelling, puppetry, arts and crafts, and more. Students develop an appreciation for other cultures, improvement in school performance, problem-solving skills and more. Children who learn a second language before adolescence may achieve native-like pronunciation. The creation of Matthew and Teresa Drucker, Italian Language Littles is the realization of their long-time love of Italian. Because Teresa is a first generation Italian-American, she maintains strong ties to the cultural traditions and language of her parents. Her expertise as an early childhood sets the backdrop for educational and fun classes. Matthew, a high school Italian teacher who once lived in Florence, helps bring creative ideas for language learning to Italian Language Littles. Teresa and Matthew’s Italian Language Littles will ensure your child a stimulating environment for today and a bright future for tomorrow. Now enrolling.

include carnival, Olympics and guest appearances. The preschool and kindergarten programs modify activities to meet the needs of younger campers. Super Seniors, campers entering grades 4, 5 and 6, participate in many off-camp activities, like attending a Mets game and Splish Splash water park. Kenwal Teens, those entering grades 7 and 8, participate in off-camp activities, like visiting Great Adventure, Broadway shows and the beach, at least three times a week. A Counselors in Training program for teens entering grades 9 and 10 combines counselor training sessions with field trips. Kenwal creates small groups of campers for each activity to ensure that every camper gets the maximum attention possible from counselors and group leaders. Kenwal was voted by Long Island Press and the Long Island community “Best of L.I.” summer camp 2010. Call for more information about Kenwal Day Camp: the camp that cares.

Kenwal Day Camp 100 Drexel Ave., Melville, NY 11747 (631)694-3399 www.kenwaldaycamp.com Kenwal Day Camp, family-owned and operated for 32 years, cultivates campers’ desire to participate, have fun and try their best, without the pressure of having to win. Situated on 20 magnificent acres, Kenwal is accented by many tree-shaded activity areas; wondrous nature trails; a half-acre, man-made lake; and the finest facilities and equipment to ensure every camper hours of fun, exploration and excitement. The camp features four heated pools; go-karts; a water park with inflatables; a video arcade game room; bungee trampolines; and inflatable rides. Activities include: tennis, beach volleyball, basketball, soccer, archery, karate, street hockey, mini-golf, music, drama, arts and crafts, inline rollerblading, rock climbing, mountain biking and zip lining. Special events

Kiddie Academy Brightwaters (Bay Shore) (631)969-1234 East Setauket (631)941-2100 Greenlawn (631)261-2220 Hicksville (516)931-3330 Islip (631)859-1234 Nesconset (631)724-5437 www.kiddieacademy.com For almost 20 years, parents have trusted Kiddie Academy to care for what they treasure most — their children. Kiddie Academy provides a most comprehensive and developmentally-appropriate child care program for children. With locations in Nassau and Suffolk counties, this facility is a convenient choice for parents looking for quality care and instruction for their children. Kiddie Academy offers a program to promote each child’s intellectual, social, physical and emotional growth — from 6 weeks to 12

your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 23

CAMP DIRECTORY years old. In addition to the traditional areas of language development, science/discovery and creative arts, many Kiddie Academy locations include computer and foreign language programs. Some Kiddie Academy centers also provide before and after school care for children ages 6-12, with an emphasis on providing a safe and secure learning environment. Centers are equipped to provide activities in arts and crafts, science and discovery, dramatic play and constructive building. Whatever you child care needs may be, you can be guaranteed that Kiddie Academy is committed to providing children with the best possible learning environment in a warm and nurturing setting. Call for more information.

ming, arts and crafts, mini golf, roller skating, and many other fun activities. They are quickly taken in to the Long Island Voyager’s family. Safety is a top priority at Long Island Voyager’s, which has a low counselor-to-child ratio. Buses are regularly inspected, and all drivers are assigned cell phones. Staff members are CPR, First Aid and AED certified. The staff includes a health director, and two lifeguards are constantly on duty. The camp is licensed by the Suffolk County Department of Health Services and is inspected twice a year. Long Island Voyager’s campers excel in many areas of activity and gain new skills, increase self-confidence, and develop more independence.

Long Island Voyager’s Day Camp (516)238-4586 www.longislandvoyagersdaycamp.com Long Island Voyager’s Day Camp is unique in that it offers your child a full range of specialties and fun-filled days of recreation. The co-ed camp includes programs for children entering kindergarten in September through those age 14. Its goal is to assist in the development of the whole child — educationally, athletically, artistically and socially. Long Island Voyager’s teaches self-respect, courage and responsibility. Its caring staff builds upon campers’ self-esteem, self-confidence and character. Long Island Voyager’s is a summer alternative that surpasses childcare as it captures campers’ special talents and helps them identify their goals. Long Island Voyager’s prides itself on its dedication to providing your children with the most exciting, action-packed and safest summer experience. Amazing trips are taken to places like Splish Splash, Adventureland, Fun Zone, Fire Island, Atlantis Marine World, Bayville Adventure Park and the Bronx Zoo, baseball games, IMAX theaters, museums, the beach, and much more. Campers also get the chance to participate in sports, educational activities, swim-

Oasis Summer Day Camps on Long Island Oasis in Tully Park: Michael J. Tully Park 1801 Evergreen Ave., New Hyde Park, NY 11040 (646)519-5062 tullypark@oasischildren.com Oasis on the Sound 158 Manorhaven Boulevard, Manorhaven, NY 11050 (646)519-5077 onthesound@oasischildren.com Oasis in Mt. Sinai 460 Harbor Beach Road, Mt. Sinai, NY 11766 646-519-5064 mtsinai@oasischildren.com www.oasischildren.com With three locations, Cedar Town Beach, Michael J. Tully Park, and On The Sound at Manorhaven Beach Park, Oasis offers campers a traditional summer day camp experience filled with engaging activities developed and taught by teachers, coaches, and dedicated youth workers. At Oasis in Mt. Sinai, campers experience boating in Mt. Sinai Harbor, swimming in the Long Island Sound at Cedar

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EAST WOODS Day Camp & Summer Programs Located on the beautiful, 46-acre campus of East Woods School in Oyster Bay.

For children ages 2-15. Perfect for your athlete, artist, performer or scientist.

CHECK US OUT! • Affordable tuition • Impressive facilities • Nurturing & dedicated staff • Great location

For more information, please contact camp@eastwoods.org or 516.922.4437 31 Yellow Cote Road Oyster Bay, NY www.eastwoods.org/camp 24 I parentguide News I April 2015

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CAMP DIRECTORY Beach, playing in the fields at The Wedge, and visiting the Holtsville Ecology Center. At Oasis in Tully Park, campers experience amazing facilities that feature an athletic complex, stadium, and a newly built indoor water park. On The Sound campers have access to the amazing facilities of Manorhaven Beach Park. All locations have access to basketball courts, tennis courts, spacious fields, and swimming pools. Campers ages 3-11 participate in a variety of engaging activities inclusive of athletics, yoga, fine arts, and instructional swim. Oasis Early Start is offered for 3- to 5-year-old campers that have not yet completed kindergarten by the start of camp. In this program, the camp day is designed to meet the social, emotional, and physical needs of junior campers. Oasis also offers a popular Teen Travel program, for young people ages 12-15, which gives teens the opportunity to take unique daily trips while forming lifelong friendships based out of the Tully Park location. Daily hot lunch service is available for purchase. Oasis bus service picks up and drops off campers from a number of convenient locations. Sibling and other discounts are available. Online registration is fast and simple, so don’t wait! Visit the website to learn more.

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small teacher/child ratio which allows students to enjoy individualized attention. At Teacher’s Pets Child Care Centers, the curriculum follows a “concept” pattern with broad ideas that build up by working slowly on small things that are a part of the children’s lives, such as: food, families, animals and pets, community things, weather and more. Some important skills taught are awareness and observance, following directions, motor development and coordination and self-control. Computer Education and field trips are provided as well! The staff will also work at developing your child’s self-confidence, attention span and sense of humor! Breakfast, lunch and snacks are provided daily. For more information on how to make your child one of the “Teacher’s Pets,” call (516)520-7721. Young People’s Day Camp of Nassau/Suffolk (800)DAY CAMP / (631)476-3330 Nassau: (516)650-1856 www.ypdc.com Young People’s Day Camp of Nassau/Suffolk has provided 41 years of fabulous and memorable summers! Swimming, sports, movies, arts and crafts, talent shows, local trips and Special Event Days combine to make this a super program. Young People’s Day Camp is licensed by the New York State Health Department; directed by licensed teachers; and staffed by educational professionals, Red Cross Instructors, EMTs, and college students. The staff and program provide children with a safe and fun-filled summer while allowing parents to go about their daily activities knowing that their child is in good hands. Young People’s Day Camp emphasizes individual growth, as well as traditional values of teamwork, cooperation, self-respect, respect for others, tolerance and honesty. These values will sustain our campers for a lifetime. A rolling enrollment policy allows children to be registered for two through eight weeks at parents’ convenience. The camp provides free, door-to-door transportation via licensed, certified, and

Proof

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Teacher’s Pets Child Care Centers Little Red Schoolhouse (516)520-7721 270 Washington Ave., Plainview, NY 11803 (516)931-8204 East Village Green, Jerusalem Ave., Levittown, NY 11756 (516)731-3263 3510 N. Jerusalem Road, Wantagh, NY 11793 teacherspets2@optonline.net Teacher’s Pets Child Care Centers offer a warm, nurturing place where your little ones can learn and grow! These year-round, full day centers for children 6 weeks-5 years provide a certified staff and a

Camp starts in three months. Time to do your homework. Now is the time to be thinking about the summer. Learn more at CampsRUs.org or call (516) 935-CAMP

your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 25

FROM:

ISSUE DATE:

CAMP DIRECTORY

Please call or fax your comments and/or professional school bus drivers. It is reasonably pricedOK. and offers a payment plan designed to fit your needs with no interest or service Young People’s Day Camp features a great program, fun-filled SIGNATUREcharges. OF APPROVAL: activities, and a safe environment as an unbeatable combination! Sleepaway Camp Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County (516)433-7970 Ext. 11 tp229@cornell.edu www.dpf4hcamp.org Celebrating more than 90 years of camp, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County is committed to offering camper families a high-quality educational program, achieving the same level of

Peace Of Mind For Working Parents www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Teacher’s Pets Child Care Centers, Inc.

• Ages 6 wks-5 yrs • Reasonable Rates • Open Year Round • Meals Provided • Full Day Schedule • Certiﬁed Staff • Computer Education

At three Convenient Locations

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A NURTURING ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR CHILD

excellence as its partners at Cornell University. The camp is located on the North Fork of Long Island in a 140-acre natural setting with woodlands, farmland, bluffs, pine forests, sand dunes, and beachfront. This co-educational sleepaway camp is a great place for children to enjoy a week or several weeks of summer. DPF 4-H camp is open to all children entering grades 4-10. The program offers many traditional camping activities and specialized in-depth programming. Traditional camping programs include sports, dance, swimming, arts and crafts, fishing, drama, outdoor living, canoeing, woodworking, rocketry, archery, nature, and more! Specialized, in-depth programs include horseback riding, an adventure program, and CounselorIn-Training. DPF 4-H has a low and high ropes challenge course, a nature center with touch tanks, a 40-acre “work and learn” farm, an indoor horseback riding arena, and many riding trails. Evening programs include talent shows, carnivals, dances, scavenger hunts, wagon rides, cookouts, campfires, and much more. Meals are served in the lodge; nutritious food is plentiful and the comprehensive salad bar offers campers many choices. The camp’s administrative and program staff comprises teachers, educators, college graduates and students, and high school students, many of whom are camp alumni. The senior counselors have completed counselor-training programs, and most have been campers themselves. International staff from the United Kingdom complement the seasoned American staff by sharing their rich cultural backgrounds and experiences. The American Camp Association accredits the camp, which is proud of the high standards it achieves regarding the health, safety, and welfare of campers. Monday to Saturday sessions run from June through August. Stay-over weekend sessions are available throughout the summer. Check the website or call for further information.

Proof

Parent/Child Resource ADHD Parent Trainer Elaine Lerner, MSW, CSW 233 7th St., Suite 200, Garden City, NY 11530 (516)487-0636 elaine@adhdparenttrainer.com www.adhdparenttrainer.com Is your child having behavioral problems at home, in school or in social settings? ADHD Parent Trainings are forming in Long Island. Elaine Lerner, MSW, CSW and ADHD specialist will offer training for parents of children with attention problems using the Russell Barkley, Ph.D. and Ross Green Ph.D. methods of behavioral management. ADHD is one of the most common childhood developmental behavioral disorders affecting up to 5-7 percent of the school age population and accounting for the largest proportion of children referred to mental health programs in this country. Learn techniques to give your child a better chance of success in school, at home and in social settings. Her goal as a clinician is to empower parents to take charge of the demanding care of these children in a way that ensures the health of the child individually and the entire family collectively. Elaine Lerner, MSW, CSW, received her masters Degree in Social Work from Fordham University and has over 16 years of experience in the school system as a social worker. She has trained with Russell A. Barkley, Ph.D., and Ross Green, Ph.D. Call (516)487-0636 or visit www.adhdparenttrainer.com to register.

Health & Fitness Michael Ioannou DMD Pediatric Dentistry of Suffolk County PLLC 2171 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 145, Commack, NY 11725 (631)486-6364 3237 Route 112, Building 6, Suite 7B, Medford, NY 11763 (631)320-0880 www.supermolar.com Pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. Dr. Michael Ioannou’s excellent behavioral management techniques ensure his patients’ comfort at 26 I parentguide News I April 2015

parentguidenews.com

CAMP DIRECTORY

all times. He has a caring and compassionate approach to dentistry with an emphasis on molding behavior and changing attitudes toward dental care. His state-of-the-art offices are fully equipped with digital x-rays, video games, and themed treatment rooms to give your child a fun and friendly experience.

Special Needs MKSA LLC 125 E. Bethpage Road, Plainview, NY 11803 (516)731-5588 info@mksallc.com www.mksallc.com MKSA LLC (formerly Marion K. Salomon & Associates) has been helping children with developmental delays for 17 years. It has now joined with HASC, a leader in the field since 1963. MKSA provides a full range of evaluation, educational, therapeutic, and support services to children ages birth through 3 years and fami419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 lies in Long Island, Queens, and Brooklyn. The program is also expanding into Manhattan and Staten Island. Services include: speech and language pathology, to: PROMPT, special education, Ap- FAx # plied Behavior Analysis, (ABA), physical and occupational therapies, psychology, social work, and service coordination. DevelFrom: in Nassau and Brooklyn. MKSA iSSue DAte: opmental groups are available LLC believes in putting the family’s needs first. The agency’s special strength comes from years of experience, an emphasis on Please call orinvolvement fax your comments and/or oK. advanced training, and a strong sense of personal with each family. Its mission is to maximize each child’s developmental potential by SigNAture working in oF cooperation APProvAl: with families, schools, and communities. Children learn and grow at different rates. However, call MKSA if your child isn’t doing what other kids the same age are doing! Ask questions, and get answers.

ProoF

ng iALizi sPEC PLEs D Cou H D A iPs in onsH i T A L & rE

SEND A PARENT TO SCHOOL

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Is your child having problems paying attention, focusing or managing their behavior? If so, attend a training! • Basic Behavioral Management Parents of children ages 4-10

• Specialized Adolescent Training

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Elaine Lerner, MSW, CSW, ADHD Parent Trainer CALL

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Enroll online at www.ADHDParentTrainer.com your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 27

by Gregory Hanley

Bedtime Battles Put soreness about sleep to rest.

s bedtime a nightly struggle in your home? You’re not alone. Sleep problems affect as many as many as 35 percent to 50 percent of typically developing children (and occur at even higher rates for children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder). It probably won’t surprise sleepless families to know that sleep problems in children have physical, mental, and emotional consequences. It has been linked to difficult temperament, impaired daytime functioning, and increased risk of obesity. The good news? Having the right bedtime strategies might be all you need to help your kids to fall asleep and stay asleep at night.

Setting up a sleep schedule The amount of sleep a child needs depends partly on age. Most children between ages 3 and 6 will need close to 11 or 12 hours of sleep per day, whereas 10 to 14 years olds will need between nine and 10 hours per night. Determine your child’s bedtime based on the number of hours of sleep needed and the time your family gets up in the morning. For example, a 4 year old who wakes at 7am should go to bed at 8pm to get her 11 hours of sleep. Did she enjoy an hour-long nap at preschool? Add that in for a 9pm bedtime. One caveat: Don’t force an early bedtime on a child unaccustomed to it. If your child is falling asleep relatively late at night because she has been sick or with you on vacation, it may take several days — slowly moving the bedtime back by a half-hour per day — to get back on track.

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28 I parentguide News I April 2015

The right routine It’s no surprise that kids often resist going to bed. Why would they want to give up hanging out with Mom and Dad in a bright, warm room with snacks and entertainment to lie alone in a cold, dark bedroom? Parents need to help ease that transition. Start by dimming the lights — which helps the body shift into sleep mode — about 45 minutes before bedtime. A warm bath can be soothing as long as it’s at least a halfhour before bed (an elevated body temperature makes it harder to fall asleep). Replace rowdy play with quieter activities, and avoid abrupt transitions. Mix in a time to cuddle, talk, or read together before sending a child off to bed. And remember that the more consistent the routine, the faster the child will transition into sleep.

parentguidenews.com

Bedtime battles can test any parent’s resolve, but careful consideration of sleep schedule, routines, dependencies, and the timing of your interactions at night will result in a good night’s sleep for the whole family.

Create healthy sleep dependencies

PROOF

Most children wake up an average of 10 times per night. If the things they experienced when initially falling asleep — like cuddling with Mom or Dad or having the light on with music playing — aren’t there when they wake up, they will probably have a difficult time going back to sleep. They will cry out or come visit parents to help them reset the conditions to fall back asleep. That’s why we try to make sure that the parents — or anything else that cannot be there throughout the night — aren’t requirements for sleep. Introduce a new sleep association, like a white noise machine, that will be there when the child falls asleep and during the brief awakenings that are part of normal sleep. As a bonus, it helps to mask frightening or enticing noises that disrupt children from sleeping.

Settling to sleep Parents: Be careful not give in to your sleepless child’s demands for attention or more fun time with the family. Instead of going to the child every time he or she cries, we suggest parents to go in according to a time-based schedule, with the time between visits getting greater each visit. The child learns that she doesn’t have to act out to have their needs met. Once children learn that acting out is unnecessary, they will start to fall asleep quicker. If a child’s cry outs or “curtain calls” persist, consider giving the child one “bedtime pass” each night; surrendering the pass allows them to have a reasonable request granted (e.g., one more short book read to them).

PROOF

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Gregory Hanley, Ph.D., BCBA-D, is director of the Children’s Sleep Program at Western New England University in Springfield, Mass. He has conducted research on the assessment, treatment, and prevention of problem behaviors at the University of Florida, the University of Kansas, and Western New England University. He has published more than 75 articles in peer-reviewed journals.

0 0 1 $ n i W

our Toward Y rty! a P y a d h t t Bir x e N s ’ d l i h C Calling All August Birthdays!

PARENTGUIDE News wants to help make your child’s next birthday the most memorable ever! This month’s Birthday Blowout Contest highlights children’s birthdays that occur in August. To enter, go to www.parentguidenews.com and click on the Birthday Blowout Contest box for details. The winner receives a $100 gift certificate to spend toward a chosen party place or entertainer for the ultimate birthday bash.

Save BIG at www.parentguidenews.com

Turn your child’s special day into something spectacular. your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 29

Woman oman mom

by Princess Ivana Pignatelli Aragona Cortes

For the Woman behind the Mom

Embrace

Your Image 5 ways to thrive in a changing body.

ow that you’re pregnant, life looks different.You may feel unsure of yourself and your changing body since every day seems to be an adventure in transformation. In addition to nausea and fatigue, you’re on the emotionalhormonal rollercoaster ride of a lifetime, which can make you fierce, weepy, euphoric, and amnesiatic all at the same time. While you’re excited about becoming a mother, that feeling might not extend to all of the social outings and events you’re scheduled to attend between now and your baby’s arrival. You may not feel like being the life of the party, or even going to one in the first place. Instead, it’s possible that you’re fantasizing about hibernating. But as cozy as that scenario might sound — especially if you are fatigued — it’s a better choice to have some fun with friends, even if you scale back on your typical social schedule. Unless you are fortunate enough to experience one of those picture-perfect pregnancies, there are going to be times when you feel tired, uncomfortable, emotional, unattractive, and less-than-patient. Fulfilling social expectations and obligations can definitely turn from cheer to chore in a hurry. Remember that time spent with friends and family is good for your health, and socializing may boost your energy and mood.You’ll have plenty of time to stay at home once the baby is born. So go out and show ‘em what you’ve got! Read on for five tips on how to psych yourself up for outings and events.

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30 I parentguide News I April 2015

Photo credit: Jeff Kimball

1) Let positivity reign.

It’s all too easy to let doubts and negative self-talk put you on house arrest.You know how it goes. Thoughts such as the following may sound familiar: “I feel huge, and I’m sure I look like it, too;” “The last thing I want is to be around svelte people in their pretty dresses;” “My face is so puffy, and I can’t control my hair;” or “I really don’t want to look like that in photos.” If these less-than-inspiring thoughts have become pervasive, stop right there and place a stern no-negativity ban on your mental dialogue. Start in the mirror. Stop focusing on nagging imperfections, and instead see the new you. Rather than brushing off the compliments of friends and your spouse, for instance, make a real effort to see yourself through their eyes. Pregnancy is a time when a woman comes into her own, and it’s important to focus on all of the positive things that are happening to you. Say it with me, “I’m beautiful!”

2) Embrace your curves.

When they become pregnant, some women can’t wait to show off their bumps, and they manage to find outfit after outfit that looks simply stunning. But if you’re not a celebrity and model, you may be a little more reluctant to venture out into the social swirl.You may wonder whether to play up or camouflage your pregnancy. But if you’ve got it, flaunt it! In the grand scheme of things, you’re going to be pregnant for only a short slice of your life.You’ve got years and years ahead to wear “normal” clothes. So find a few outfits for special occasions that tastefully flatter the body you have right now. Remember, in addition to your bump, you’ve got that fabled radiant glow, not to mention cleavage you never dreamed of. So have fun with the new, more voluptuous you.

parentguidenews.com

3) Try something new.

There’s already something out-of-the-ordinary about your look:Your mommy-to-be body! So why not venture into fun new fashion realms, too? Spice up your look with a colorful scarf or eye-catching costume jewelry. And if you’re tired of your maternity stand-bys, try something bold: a statement ring, bright leggings under a tunic, or jewel-toned flats. Better yet, try something you’ve always been intrigued by but never dared to do, like wearing a sequined top or getting a fierce, artsy manicure. Branching out from the basics — which, let’s face it, can get really boring, really quickly — will enhance your look and your mood.

4) Prep yourself.

Even in your pre-pregnancy days, getting ready for a social event took a little work. Now, you have a great excuse to take the pampering even further. Getting your mind and body (hair, lips, eyes, and nails) ready to socialize is well worth your time because it’ll help you to feel comfortable and confident. You might want to exercise a bit in the morning to energize yourself. Then, get in a good nap and meditate for 10 minutes. Focus gently on how you want to feel, and be kind with your internal messages. Embark on your personal getting-ready regimen. Lastly, go back to the mirror, and say three things you love about yourself. Be your own cheerleader. It works!

5) Have a laugh.

While having a baby may be exciting to you, your family, and your friends, it’s good to have other things to talk about. And if you’re anything like me, there will come a point when you’ll be desperate to change the subject and talk about anything but your belly and your baby! Make it a game, and remember that everybody loves a good laugh. Here are some favorite conversation starters: • If you could do anything without any personal consequences, what would it be? • If you were stranded on a desert island and could bring only one celebrity, who would it be and why? (My choice is Stephen Colbert. And yours?)

As you psych yourself up about your body image, remember that everyone loves a pregnant woman. If you dread socializing, let others do the talking. Just asking a few questions, then listening attentively, makes most people think you are brilliant, interesting, and a great person! Chances are, you’ll have a better time than expected while you’re expecting.

Princess Ivana Pignatelli Aragona Cortes is the co-author of A Simple Guide to Pregnancy & Baby’s First Year (Don’t Sweat It Media, Inc.), founder of Princess Ivana—The Modern Princess at www.princessivana.com, and a featured blogger on Modern Mom. Although she’s a modern-day princess, Ivana didn’t wait for a kiss to save her. Using her master’s degree in education, she forged a career as a digital strategy consultant. Ivana and her Prince Charming have two fabulous kids. Photo credit: Jeff Kimball

your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 31

Woman oman mom

For the Woman behind the Mom

by Samantha Chan Being comfortable during transitional seasons may be difficult, but it is a great deal easier with the Pocket Poppet. Stylish and practical, the open-front cardigan comes in a convenient pack, perfect for when you find yourself in a chilly restaurant or at outdoor events. www.thepocketpoppet.com

Amp up your workout routine this spring with the Fusion Wrap. Keep all of your essentials on your body while you run for fun, run errands, or are out for a girls’ night.The wearable accessory features not one but two large pockets for easy storage on the go. www.fusion-wrap.com

Proof

Stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, and general aging are all reflected in the soft skin just under your eyes. Instead of just covering them up, target fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness with Anti-Imperfection Eye Therapy Cream with Growth Factor from Perfective Ceuticals. www.perfectiveceuticals.com

PROOF

Baseball season kicks off this month. Get the brews www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • Pop 212-213-8840 ready with the ultra-convenient Cap. Place the bottle opener over your soda or beer, press down, and the cap pops off easily. Made from durable stainless steel, the item features a built-in magnet for easy cap collection. www.corkpops.com

Ditch the salon and get a professonal-grade, in-home, LED manicure with The Red Carpet Manicure Gel Polish Pro Kit. The handy kit includes an LED light, specifically designed to work with the RCM Structure Base Coat, RCM LED Gel Polish, and RCM Brilliance Top Coat. www.redcarpetmanicure.com Go to www.parentguidenews.com for a chance to win this great prize!

IR 4/15

for this Log k o o Lo

Th rou g

! e u hout the Iss

Samantha Chan is the associate editor.

We’ve Gone Viral

Find out why the following must-read parentguidenews.com articles were shared by more than 10,000 families in one month.

Nine Tips for Nesting

This is your opportunity to win some very exciting products and/or services featured in this issue’s Health, Travel, Update and WoMom columns.

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Log onto www.parentguidenews.com, find the “Win This Product” logo on our homepage, follow some simple directions, and good luck.

www.parentguidenews.com/Articles/SpeechandLanguageProblems

32 I parentguide News I April 2015

Projects to tackle before baby arrives.

Speech and Language Problems Seven ways to help your child speak clearly.

o0O0o0o0 parentguidenews.com

TRAVEL Like Us on Facebook for Chances to WIN Exclusive Prizes

by Donald McDermott 1 Even when there are no outlets around, you can still charge your battery on the go in the hippest way possible with the Apelpi! (pronounced “apple pie”). This is a delicious, must-have addition for your phone, laptop, or tablet. www.apelpi.com

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SK 4/15

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your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 33

HEALTH 1

by Samantha Chan

1 Juicing can be risky for pregnant women as they are 20 times more likely to become ill from parasites, viruses, and bacteria than other healthy adults. Bundle Organics makes fully pasteurized pre- and postnatal juices that are safe for soon-to-be and new mamas. www.bundleorganics.com 2 Spring cleaning is easier to achieve with Shark Rotator Powered LiftAway. Clean deeper and reach farther with a new array of features and accessories that clear even the darkest and hardest-to-reach corners. www.poweredliftaway.com 3 Allergy season is in full swing. Relieve congestion; sneezing; and itchy throats, eyes, ears, and skin with Kids Relief Allergy Oral Solution. Easy to administer, the liquid formula is sure to alleviate your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s symptoms all season long. www.kidsrelief.com/allergy.html

4 Save the healthiest foods in your fridge with Berry Breeze. The device releases activated oxygen to keep fruits, vegetables, and meats fresher longer. www.berrybreeze.com 5 When you have a child on the autism spectrum, think outside of typical avenues of bonding. Strengthen your parent-child bond with Parker Time Potions massage oils. The elixirs promote skin softness, bonding, play, and relaxation. www.parkerpotions.com Go to www.parentguidenews.com for a chance to win this great prize!

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The Fusion Wrap Scan here with your smartphone to sign up for our monthly Contests & Giveaways newsletter. To enter any or all of our fabulous Facebook giveaways, become our fan at facebook.com/parentguidenews. Our Facebook fans receive tons of chances to win exclusive prizes, as well as access to contests that run in print, article highlights, and news regarding all things parenting.

34 I parentguide News I April 2015

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Calendarof Events Suffolk

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Open Houses Nassau

april 2015

April 5

Port Jefferson Easter Parade, Port Jefferson Village, Port Jef-

19 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 ferson, (631)473-1414, www.portjeffchamber.com. See the 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 Easter Bunny and celebrate the season during this special April 11: Young People’s Day Camp, East Islip Lanes, 117 Main St., o: FAx # holiday event for the entire family. Free. East Islip, (631)476-3330 or (800)DAY-CAMP, www.ypdc.com. TO: FAX #

rom:

Manhattan

iSSue DAte:The Rinx, Hidden Pond April 18: Camp and School Open House, FROM: Park, 660 Terry Road, Hauppauge, (631)232-3222. 10am-2pm.

Queens

Please call or fax your comments and/or oK.

April 18: Red Robin Country Day School and Camp, 878 Jericho Turnpike, Westbury, (516)334-1144, www.redrobincountrydayigNAture oF APProvAl: schoolandcamp.com. Presented again on May 3. 11am-3pm.

ISSUE DATE:

Please call or fax your comments and/or OK.

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April 21: Dorothy P. Flint 4H Camp, 3186 Sound Ave., Riverhead, www.dpf4hcamp.org. Presented again on May 19. Continued on page 37.

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April 2015 I parentguide News I 35

Mark Nizer 4D, The John W. Engeman Theater at Northport, 250 Main St., Northport, (631)261-2900,

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KitchenIQ an d Casabella Ite ms! Does it seem like whenever arts and crafts time ends, you end up with a colossal mess? Or when the family whips up ice cream sundaes, does chocolate sauce get everywhere but your kid’s mouth? If so, put down the hose, pick up the camera, and send us a snapshot of your child’s messiest moment. Log onto www.parentguidenews.com to submit one photograph per family by the end of April. We’ll post select submissions the following day for viewer voting in May. The winner receives KitchenIQ prizes (Potato Tool, The Grate Ginger Tool, V-etched Better Zester!, and Angle Adjust Adjustable Manual Knife Sharpener), as well as Casabella loot (Sparkle Scrub Sponges, Loop Dispensing Dish Brushes, Round Mesh Scrubbers).

Visit www.parentguidenews.com for contest details. 36 I parentguide News I April 2015

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Calendarof Events PROOF

April 1 - 7 April 1-5: Arts and Crafts Fair, The Broadway Mall, 358 N. Broadway Mall, Hicksville, (516)822-6336, www.broadwaymall.com. Pay a visit to this mall-wide arts and crafts show and explore the exhibitors booths featuring plenty of local arts and craft fare. 11.5 the spirit of the season during a special morning event that includes an egg hunt, bonnet and basket parade, planetarium show, delicious foods, and a visit from the Easter Bunny himself! Reservations are required. 9am-noon.

www.parentguidenews.com â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840

www.parentguidenews.com â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840 April 4: Spring Egg Hunt, Cold Spring Harbor Fish & Aquarium, 1650 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor, (516)692-6768, www.cshfha.org. Celebrate Easter season by bringing your own basket, then look for as many eggs as you can find around the hatchery. 10:30am-12:30pm.

PROOF

April 6-10: Spring Break Fun, Cold Spring Harbor Fish & Aquarium, 1650 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor, (516)692-6768, www.cshfha. org. Make the most of your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time off from school in a week filled with animal encounters, Hatchery Olympics, Gardening, Amazing Adaptations, and more! 11am-3pm daily.

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your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 37

Calendarof Events April 11 Spring Family Fishing Clinic, Belmont State Park, Southern State Parkway Exit 38, North Babylon, (631)444-0283. The park provides a perfect setting for a day filled with fishing instruction, environmental exhibits, an inflatable slide, temporary tattoos, contests, and more.

Proof

April 7 and 9: Paint and Play Program, Darlings and Divas, 65 Merrick Road, Amityville, (631)608-4710, www.darlingsanddivas.com. Children ages 5 and up are invited to get creative and have lots of fun during a special “paint and play” program special Paint & Play program that supplies the canvas, paints, and instruction, as well as a pizza lunch, dessert, and a dance party to wrap up the day!

AprilMay 9 - 2-3 18

Proof

The Long Island Geek Convention, All Star Arena, 635 Middle Country Road, Coram, April 9-10: Where the Wild Things Snore Reptile Sleepover, The www.longislandgeek.com. Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center, 431 East Main St., Celebrate pop culture and Riverhead, (631)208-9200, The science fiction during www.longislandaquarium.com. a new aquarium is the convention place to be featuring during ancelebrity overnight adventure that weekend is the ultimate reptile experience as participants a guided guests, discussion panels, gaming, costumeenjoy contests, photo tour, fun facts, a movie presentation and a spot to sleep among the opportunities, and much more! aquarium tanks. Registering in advance is necessary. 6pm-7am.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

April 11: Jim Henson’s Dinosaur Train Live!, Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville, (516)2993100, www.tillescenter.org. Based on the PBS Kids show, this funfilled, interactive production uses eye catching puppets to take you on a trip back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the Earth.

COE S MB 4/15

April 22 Mark Nizer 4D, The John W. Engeman Theater at Northport, 250 Main St., Northport, (631)261-2900, www.engemantheater.com. Parents looking for a fun-filled night out on their own will love spending some time with one of the greatest entertainment comedians/jugglers working today! 7pm.

38 I parentguide News I April 2015

nizer.com

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Goofy, and all of their friends are back in an all new show that enMBthe 4/15 courages young audiences toCOE dreamSwith princesses and cheer for the heroes as some of your favorite stories are brought to life in a theatrical experience that’s pure magic.

April 18: Evening Tower Tour & Sky Viewing, Fire Island Lighthouse, Robert Moses State Park Field 5, Fire Island, (631)6614876, www.fireislandlighthouse.com. Experience the sunset from a new perspective. View the sunset from the top of the Lighthouse, followed by a star gazing opportunity on the terrace of the Lens Building. Bring a flashlight for your walk back to the parking field. Reservations Required.

PROOF

ProoF

nizer.com 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734

to:

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TO:

FAx #

April 12: Family Sundays at the Museum, Nassau County Museum FROM: iSSue DAte: (516)484-9337, www. of Art, One Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor, nassaumuseum.org. Converse, collaborate and create together during a weekly by exhibition based gallery Please callprogram or faxinspired your comments and/or oK. conversations, and more. Presented again on April 19 and 26. 1-4pm.

FAX # ISSUE DATE:

Please call or fax your comments and/or OK.

SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: SigNAture April oF APProvAl: 16 and 17: Disney Live! Presents - Three Classic Fairy Tales, The Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale, (516)794-9300, www.nassaucoliseum.com. Mickey, Minnie,

Exciting April Events at Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium spring egg hunt

spring festival

Bring a basket and collect as many eggs as you can find around the Hatchery.

Rain date: Saturday, May 2

Sat., April 4th 10:30am-12:30pm

Sat., April 25th 10am-4:30pm

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April 6th-10th • 11am-3pm Every Day Animal Encounters, Hatchery Olympics, Let Your Garden Grow and Amazing Adaptations

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Celebrate while exploring the aquarium, feeding fish & enjoying a live animal presentation!

1660 Rt. 25A, Cold Spring Harbor • 516-692-6768 • CSHfHA.org A non-profit freshwater game fish hatchery and a leading environmental education center devoted to increasing public awareness and knowledge of the freshwater ecosystems of Long Island.

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www.coolcraftslongisland.com April 2015 I parentguide News I 39

Calendarof Events April 24 - May 2 April 24: A Fox on the Fairway, St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College, 155 West Roe Boulevard Clare Rose Playhouse, Patchogue, (631)447-3200, www.sjceagles.com. Enjoy a hilarious romp that pulls the rug out from underneath the stuffy denizens of a private country club. Ongoing through May 9. April 25: Spring Appreciation Day, Stony Brook Village Center, Main St., Stony Brook, (631)751-2244, www.stonybrookvillage.com. Enjoy a fun filled afternoon at the Stony Brook Village Center with a petting zoo, puppet show and carriage rides throughout the village. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a perfect way to welcome in the warmer weather in a beautiful colonial village setting! 12-5pm. April 25: Spring Festival, Cold Spring Harbor Fish & Aquarium, 1650 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor, (516)692-6768, www.cshfha.org. Fishing for kids, Bounce, Games, Petting Zoo, Food, Music, and more are all on the agenda for this spectacular annual celebration. 10am-4:30pm. Rain date is May 2. April 26: All Kids 5th Annual Fair, Melville Marriott, 1350 Old Walt Whitman Road, Melville, (516)621-1446, www.specialtyconnections.com. Treat your whole family to a celebration of life dur-

April 5

April 25

Port Jefferson Easter Parade, Port Jefferson Village, Port Jefferson, (631)473-1414, www.portjeffchamber.com. See the Easter Bunny and celebrate the season during this special holiday event for the entire family. Free.

Junior Ranger Day, Fire Island Lighthouse, Wilderness Visitor Center, William Floyd Estate, (631)687-4772. Drop in so your little ones can become Junior Rangers during a day filled with a multitude of hands-on activities for visitors young and old alike.

4/30/15.

April 11 Spring Family Fishing News Clinic,I Belmont 40 I parentguide April 2015State Park, Southern State Parkway Exit 38, North Babylon, (631)444-0283. The park provides a perfect setting for a day filled with fishing instruction, environmental exhibits, an inflatable slide, tem-

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May 2-3 The Long Island Geek Con-

April 11 Spring Fishing Clinic, State Park, ing aFamily day long show that Belmont features an array ofSouthern vendors featuring State Parkway Exit 38, North Babylon,camp (631)444-0283. kid-centered products and services, and tutoringThe information, park provides a perfectclasses settingfor forkids, a daylive filled with fishingand much health professionals, entertainment, instruction, environmental exhibits, an inflatable slide, temmore. 10am-4:30pm. porary tattoos, contests, and more. May 1: Opening Night for the Long Island Ducks!, Long Island Ducks Stadium, 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip, (631)9403825, www.liducks.com. Enjoy a fun and affordable night out when the Long Island Ducks kick off another exciting season. Gates open at 5:30pm. May 2: The Clownsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Jack and the Beanstalk, The Carriage Theater at Vanderbilt Museum & Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport, (516)293-0674, www.vanderbiltmuseum.org. In this hilarious story, a group of clowns decides to present their own delightful version of the classic fairy tale. Runs Saturday and Sunday through 1pm..

May 2-3 The Long Island Geek Convention, All Star Arena, 635 Middle Country Road, Coram, www.longislandgeek.com. Celebrate pop culture and science fiction during a new weekend convention featuring celebrity guests, discussion panels, gaming, costume contests, photo opportunities, and much more!

Calendarof Events Share your event details by the 1st of the preceding month

All Month Long Ongoing April 22throughout April: The Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post Campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville, Mark Nizer 4D, The John W. Engeman (516)299-2752, www.tillescenter.org. The Tilles Center is the Theater 250 live Mainentertainment! place at to Northport, be for amazing St., Northport, (631)261-2900, www.engemantheater.com. Parents looking for a fun-filled night out on their own will love spending some time with one of the greatest entertainment comedians/jugglers working today! 7pm. nizer.com

Submit family activities and events FREE of charge at COE S MB 4/15 www.parentguidenews.com/Catalog/SubmitACalendarItem or e-mail Donald McDermott: Donald@parentguidenews.com

PARENTGUIDE News has an amazing new online concept, and you could be part of the action. We have immediate openings for three Advertising Sales Executives who want to do what they love. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all we can say at this time. If you are curious about this opportunity and are looking for a career change or part-time employment, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to hr@parentguidenews.com.

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your needs, your neighborhood

April 2015 I parentguide News I 41

UPDATE

by Donald McDermott

1 Nightly bedtime battles are no more with Melody Mates™.The collection of sweet, slumber-inducing cushions come complete with a soft pillow, detachable blanket, soothing lullabies, and LED lights that gently evoke starry skies. www.mymelodymates.com 2 Endless Games encourages families to give their kids a Passover or an Easter gift that will last a lifetime. Check out board games like the physically challenging Crazy Legs or Cupcake Race, the game that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. www.endlessgames.com 3The ultimate baby mat, the Gymotion™ Activity Playland from Yookidoo® is a colorful, on-the-go fun activity gym specially designed for multiple stages of your baby’s development. www.creativekidstuff.com

6 Science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) come together for kids in exciting and educational new activities such as the DIY Prisma Paper Chess Set and the Rami tree-building kit from Lupe Toys. www.lupetoys.com 7 Equipped with molded plastic and a removable elastic strap, the Kid Lid offers a simple and innovative new way to protect computer keys from little fingers and unwanted typing that disrupts movies, games, and video chats. www.kidlid.com 8 GooseWaddle baby blankets are unbelievably soft, available in classic colors, and come in full and blankie sizes. And for every product purchased, the company will donate a super soft receiving blanket to a child in need. www.goosewaddle.com

4 Dedicated to decking out your little hero or heroine, Superherostuff.com is the wildly popular superhero-themed site for everything from tees, hoodies, hats, and shoes to backpacks and lunchboxes. www.superherostuff.com

9 Offering the comfort and quality all babies deserve at a price all parents will appreciate, LOVE by Little Giraffe is your new go-to brand for everyday plush blankets, toys, and more. www.littlegiraffe.com/shop/love-little-giraffe

5 Available now at Amazon.com and iTunes, Daycare Dance Party is a brand-new CD with an exciting mix of pop, hip-hop, and country styles from Hailey, Bailey, and Jazz. www.preschoolpopstars.com

10 Dedicated to providing families with carriers and accessories that are smart, simple and stylish, Baby K’tan’s new Nifty Shades of Grey limited-edition print is a versatile, eye-catching wrap that slips on like a T-shirt. www.babyktan.com

Go to www.parentguidenews.com for a chance to win these great prizes! 42 I parentguide SKApril 2015 News I April 2015

Donald McDermott is the managing editor.

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