DECEMBER 2013
Nassau
Program Directory Perfect picks for every kid
Time to Get Away Eight tips for family trips
Approaching
Autism
Ways to cope with the diagnosis
WIN
PRIZES www.parentguidenews.com Over 1,000 Exciting Family Events L
IN OUR
GIFT GUIDE
GIVEAWAY!
ating Particip With r e Provid MANY nce Insura nies a Comp
vie Mo ps 10 ed O al e m The d A R e i n v A Mo ater e Th
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Mary Ellen Nesnay, DMD Jeffrey Fong, DDS
We Welcome Children On The Spectrum
Offerin g Sedatio n Dent istry With O ur Lice n sed Anesth esiolog ists
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contents
table of
December 2013 Volume 30 • Number 12
C
Program Coverage
Birt Fam
P. 18 Hearing, “I Quit?”...................... 18
Six ways to keep your kids in their programs.
C
Program Directory......................... 20 Leading programs and resources near you.
Don
This
Special Needs
Upd
P. 32
Esse
Hea
Special Needs and Health & Fitness Directory.......... 27
Insig
In S
Experts and services catering to family wellness and special needs.
Craf
B
It’s Autism..................................... 32 Life after the diagnosis.
Trav
Attra
Health & Fitness
Wha
A com
Mouth Myths.................................. 40 P. 40 The truth about children’s dental health.
Features
P. 34
Express Yourself............................ 14 Teaching communication skills to kids.
Before Birth........................................ 16
Art
Amusing anecdotes about your hospital stay.
Traffic, TSA, and Tantrums, Oh My!.. 34 Eight tips for surviving holiday travel with your kids.
Co
Top Toys............................................. 38 Kids’ gifts for your lists.
P. 42 Mixed-Media Mamas............... 42
J
Give yourself permission to play.
Feeling Good, Looking Good.. 43
Submiss PAREN News re News, I NY 115
Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous.
I parentguide News I December 2013
parentguidenews.com
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RED ROBIN
COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL + CAMP
COME JOIN US TODAY!!! THE PREMIER PRESCHOOL THE PREMIER ALL INCLUSIVE DAY CAMP Toddler through Kindergarten Toddler through 7th Grade Flexible Schedules • • Complete Program Amazing Curriculum • • Camp Backpack & T-shirt Toilet Training • • Daily Towel Service Extended Days (7am-6pm) • • Hot Lunches & Snacks 2-5 Days Available • • Flexible Schedules: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 Small Class Sizes • Weeks or Any 16 or 24 Days R E P U S Certified Teachers • • Midi Day or Full Day MMER U S R IO N Optional Transportation • • Transportation SE RE MATH ADVENTU RAM & G O R R P ENROLL NOW FOR 2014...SPACES ARE LIMITED! EADIN TRIPS 4 & 3 G DES ENRIC TOURS AVAILABLE 7 DAYS A WEEK! FOR GRA ES 5-7 H M E D NT PROG OR GRA OR RAMS CALL F 878 Jericho Tpke., Westbury (On the Jericho Border) AVAILA BL DETAILS
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redrobincountrydayschoolcamp@gmail.com www.redrobincountrydayschoolandcamp.com FULLY NY STATE LICENSED • ACA ACCREDITED • CHILDREN IN DIAPERS WELCOME your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I
contents contents
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MERRest Day Camp956,
the fin land since 1 L ong Is s 3-15. 12 for age December 2013orVolume 30 • NumberA ILS,
December 2013 Volume 30 • Number 12
TR cre WOOD +a
Contests
REEN n exciting 100 in the ProgramGCoverage a p ay Cam
PROOF
Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 44 Family Favorite Photo Contest................................... 59
ires epaw P. 18 Hearing, S“IleQuit?”...................... Berksh 18 l u f i t u ea kids in their Six ways to keepbyour 8-16. sprograms. for age Program Directory......................... 20
Columns
419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734
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D TRAI O O W N FAX RE# E DS & GROGRAM O O rate!! W K P rdable O o f B f a M y MERRIC O r e P. 32 C at a vDATE: ds ISSUE
Don’t Miss....................................................................... 10 This month’s entertainment and activities.
Update............................................................................ 44
Special bo Needs best of
Essential products and information for your brood.
th worl
Health............................................................................. 46
Call us at The Needs and Special 516-483-7272 Please call or fax your comments Health & Fitness Directory.......... 27 and/or OK.
Insight and items for your family’s care.
In Season........................................................................ 58
for more information
Experts and services cateringon to any family of our wellness and special needs. exciting programs! SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL:
Crafts and games to keep your clan warm all month long.
Bonus
It’s Autism..................................... 32 www.GreenwoodTrails.com Life after the diagnosis.
www.MerrickWoods.com
Travel Directory.............................................................. 36 Attractions and accommodations for great getaways.
Health Bethlehem Nursery School & Fitness SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1976 Mouth Myths.................................. 40 P. 40 The truth about children’s dental health. “Where All God ’s hildren are STARS” P. 34 CFeatures
What’s Happening........................................................ 47 A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, performances, and events. Cover Credit: Dare 2b
Publisher Steve Elgort Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina Managing Editor Donald McDermott
Express Yourself............................ 14
Associate Editor Samantha Chan
Open Enrollment for Winter 2014 Before Birth........................................ 16 Teaching communication skills to kids.
Editorial Intern Jesse Berberich Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli
Amusing anecdotes about your hospital stay.
Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski
Traffic, TSA,Full and&Tantrums, OhProgram My!.. 34 Choices Part-Time
Accounting Teresa Pinargote
Eight tips for surviving holiday travel with your kids.
Available to Suit Your Individual Needs
Contributing Writers Andy Areffi, Melissa Areffi, Rich Brugger, Katie Bugbee, Princess Ivana Pignatelli Aragona Cortes, Anita Duhl Glicken, Debra Manchester MacMannis, Don MacMannis, Sallianne McClelland
Top Toys............................................. 38 Kids’ gifts for your lists.& Crafts • Arts • Science • Storytelling CLASSES • Bible Study • Math • Indoor & Outdoor Play INCLUDE: • Language Arts • Spanish • Music P. 42
Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti Advertising Sales Representatives Karin Mikelis, Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, Jennifer Serpi, Rena Spangler, Felicia Stafford, Erica Tiso
• NYS Licensed • Spacious Air-Conditioned Rooms Mixed-Media Mamas............... • Qualifi ed & Experienced42 Counselors and Teachers Give yourself permission to play. • Small Classes with One-on-One Attention
PGTV Producer Beth Elgort
Feeling Good, Looking Good.. 43
call to schedule a tour!
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 2013 PGMNC. All rights reserved.
Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous. 1375 N. Grand Ave. • Baldwin • 516-223-3400 • bethlehemns.org I parentguide News I December 2013
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December 2013 I parentguide News I
Letter from the Editor U Winter and its many festivities are upon us! PARENTGUIDE News wants to spread the holiday cheer. This issue is chock full of prizes and giveaways for our readers. Check out “Top Toys” to see our favorite gift picks for every child, and enter contests for a chance to win each present! As the year winds down and you reflect on all the memories you and your children have created in 2013, share with us your favorite one captured in a snapshot. Submit your photo to the Family Favorite Photo Contest for a chance to win a De’Longhi AC230 Air Purifier or tickets to Broadway’s Cinderella. Resolutions are being made, and it’s a great time to teach your children about such commitments — in particular, those they’ve made to hobbies, programs, and activities. Whether your kids are budding athletes or artists, they might go through a phase of wanting to throw in the towel (or paintbrush) when it comes to attending programs. Author Rich Brugger offers six ways to deflect thoughts of giving up in “Hearing, ‘I Quit?’.”
PROOF
by Rachel Kalina
Our Program Directory features many options for children still looking for their niche and to try something new. You’re sure to find an activity within its pages for every type of interest. Thinking of skipping town with the family during this wonderful but hectic time of year? Princess Ivana Pignatelli Aragona Cortes lends insight on traveling with children during holidays in “Traffic, TSA, and Tantrums, Oh My!” The real-life princess and mom suggests helpful tips to reduce stress and make your vacation a memorable one. More parenting tips abound in “It’s Autism” by Andy and Melissa Areffi. The authors have three children with autism, and their article shares advice on how parents can cope when a child is first diagnosed with the disorder. Want the latest scoop on what are local moms and dads are discussing? Find out and join in the conversation, too, at The Sandbox Social blog at www.parentguidenews.com.
PROOF
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Happy holidays and New Year!
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your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I
Don’t
MiSS
December
by Donald McDermott
Feeling Super
The Main Event
Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad all get to explore the new Sprixie Kingdom in Super Mario 3D World. Created exclusively for the Nintendo Wii U game system, this original, new multiplayer game from Nintendo offers hours of Mario Bros. fun for everyone! Super Mario 3D World is available now wherever video games are sold.
Children, teens and adults can become John Cena, The Rock, Hulk Hogan, CM Punk, The Undertaker, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and all of their favorite superstars from the past 30 years in WWE 2K14. The amazing, new, video game from 2K Sports offers more than 45 matches designed to celebrate three decades of WrestleMania. Pick up your copy today for the XBOX 360 and Playstation 3 game systems.
Back in the Hobbit MGM and Warner Bros. present the second half of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. Peter Jackson co-wrote and directs this amazing tale that follows Bilbo, the dwarves, and Gandalf as they continue the journey to get their gold back from the dragon, Smaug. Available in 2D, 3D and IMAX 3D, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, opens on December 13.
Circus Legends Luminocity, the latest show from the Big Apple Circus, sets up its onering tent at Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park in New York City through January 12. Now in its 36th spectacular season, the entertaining show offers aerial feats, flawless jugglers, astounding acrobats, playful pooches, and much more, all no more than 50 feet from the stage. For tickets, directions and more information, visit www.bigapplecircus.org.
Christmas Miracles Nathan Andrews is a young doctor who rethinks his career when he loses a patient in the Hallmark Channel original movie, The Christmas Blessing. Nathan finds himself questioning fate and the fragility of life, all the while hoping for a Christmas Miracle. Starring Neil Patrick Harris, Rebecca Gayheart, and Rob Lowe, The Christmas Blessing airs on the Hallmark Channel December 21. Check your local listings.
Still Despicable Brighten someone’s holiday season this year by putting Despicable Me 2 in his stocking. This summer’s worldwide, smash hit follows the animated adventures of Gru, his three adopted daughters, and a multitude of hilarious minions. The new DVD release provides everything from 45 minutes of bonus features to three, new, minion mini-adventures. Despicable Me will be available on DVD, Digital HD, BluRay, and in a special BluRay Combo Pack, on December 10.
Dynasty on DVD Lionsgate Home Entertainment proudly presents Duck Dynasty: Seasons 1-3. The backwoods, bearded bunch comes right into your home on DVD and BluRay in a wonderful collector’s set that would make the perfect gift this holiday season. Available in stores and online December 3, the set includes the first three seasons, never-before-released bonus features, and a limited-edition Duck Camo bandana.
Frosty Good Fun Go along on an unforgettable ride across a winter wonderland with Frozen. The new release from Disney Animation Studios focuses around a fearless young optimist named Anna. When Anna’s sister Elsa uses her icy powers to trap the kingdom in eternal winter, Anna is forced to team up with Kristoff and a hilarious snowman named Olaf in hopes of stopping Elsa and saving the day. Frozen is in theaters now.
Scholastic Stories Scholastic Storybook Treasures makes it a holiday season to remember with Merry Christmas, Splat...and More Winter Stories. Available in stores and online now, the holiday-theme DVD includes celebrity narration, a read-along function, behind-the-scenes features, and endearing animated tales.
Just Dance Families have even more reason to get up and dance because Just Dance 2014 is available now for the Nintendo Wii, Playstation 3, XBOX 360, Nintendo Wii U, and Playstation 4 game systems. Ubisoft’s sequel to Just Dance 4 comes complete with all-new moves, new modes and features, and more than 40 of the hottest tracks! Take your party to the next level by picking up a copy today.
Donald McDermott is the managing editor. 10 I parentguide News I December 2013
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December 2013 I parentguide News I 11
December
Holidays on Stage
Get into the spirit of the holiday season during two, special events at the NYCB Theatre. The excitement begins on December 8 when some of your favorite Disney characters are brought to life on stage during A Snow White Christmas. Then, on December 15, the Max and Ruby Nutcracker Suite puts a bright, colorful, energetic twist on the classic holiday favorite. The NYCB Theatre is located at 960 Brush Hollow Road in Westbury. For tickets, contact the box office at (516)334-0800 or visit www.westburymusicfair.org.
PROOF
by Donald McDermott
A Roosevelt Christmas
The Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, Oyster Bay, proudly presents Christmas with the Roosevelts on December 7. A unique celebration for one and all, the afternoon activities include holiday music, arts and crafts, hot cocoa, and a very special appearance by “Theodore Roosevelt,” who shares his reminiscences of how the Roosevelts celebrated Christmas at Sagamore Hill and in the White House. Admission is free. Call (516)922-4788 to find out more.
All About Annie
PROOF
Garden Goodies Old-Fashioned Fun 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734
A popular comic character takes the Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Bundle up, bring a flashlight, and enjoy lead in a delightful, Road, Old Westbury, is the place to be for some old-fashioned fun at the CandleTO: FAX # new musical at the family fun during the Holiday Cream Tea light Evening & Craft Show. Open to Broadhollow Theand Tour. Presented on December 10, 11, all ages, the 19th-century-style, Old atre. Annie Jr. features catchy tunes, colorful scenery, 12, 17, 18, and 19, the afternoon event inFROM: ISSUE DATE: Bethpage Village Restoration event and wonderful performances that highlight the story of cludes an informative tour of the magical features music in the church, hot cider everyone’s favorite orphan girl. Don’t miss your chance Westbury House, where each room is deat the Inn, and a tour of the 1863 historic Please call or fax your comments and/or OK.some time with Annie Jr. on December 8, 21, to spend signed and decorated with natural greenery. site. Pay a visit on December 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, or 22 to Old Bethpage. Call The day also includes delicious scones, 22, and 28 at the theater in Elmont. For tickets, call SIGNATURE cream, jam, and tea. Reserve your place to- (516)775-4420 or visit www.broadhollow.org. (516)572-8400 to reserve your place. OF APPROVAL: day by calling (516)333-0048, ext. 310.
L Enriching the Lives of Children FOR OVER 58 YEARS!
DOOR-TO-DOOR TRANSPORTATION
(Radio Dispatched • Air Conditioned)
• Ages 3 to 15 (co-ed) • 5 Athletic Fields/Basketball/Deck Hockey • 3 Heated Pools • 3 Playgrounds/Mini Golf Course • Hot Lunch Program Included • Mini Day 9:30am-2:00pm (Nursery & Kindergarten graduates) • Tweens Travel Program (Ages 11 & 12) • Teen Travel Program (Ages 13-15) • Mini Golf • Indoor Bowling • Dance • Fitness Course • Music • Wii Room • High & Low Zip Line Course • Zumba • & much more...
9 West Ave. • Hicksville
516.938.1137 carouseldayschool.com
12 I parentguide News I December 2013
• Flexible hour • 4-, 6-, or 8-wees 7am to 6pm • 3, 4 or 5 days k programs • Affordable tua week ition & paymen t plans parentguidenews.com
Holiday Weekend
December
Outrageous Orchestra
Experience decked halls during the Holiday Weekend at Coe Hall on December 14 and 15. See Santa, listen to the Madrigal Singers, visit the beautiful Greenhouse Display, take part in Gingerbread House-making sessions, and watch Scrooge or Jack Frost by Plaza Theatrical Productions in the Great Hall. The festivities are held from 11am to 4pm at the Planting Field Arboretum in Oyster Bay. Call (516)922-8678 or go to www.plantingfield.org to find out more.
Amazing sights and sounds take center stage when the Trans Siberian Orchestra makes its annual stop in Long Island! The Lost Christmas Eve production uses powerful music, laser lights, and surprises to tell a holiday story that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Don’t miss the show on December 20 at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale. Get tickets at www.nassaucoliseum.com.
Proof
ProoF
Programs for Kids
Museum Merriment
Syosset, closes out the year by introducing two, exciting programs in collaboration with the New Artist Theatre Group and the LI Aardvarks. Your 4-6 year olds will love taking part in the Theatre Workshop after-school program, and kids ages 4 months-4 years may enjoy a morning Music Program. For schedules and more information, call (516)496-7765 or log onto www.matsskidsgym.org.
seum of Art, 1 Museum Road, Sands Point, makes it a month to re# Drive, Roslyn, is the member byFAxhosting three, holiday-theme place to be for family events for families. Upcoming events From: fun. Every Sunday include: a production iSSue DAte:of Amahl & The Night through December 29, Visitors on December 1, The Not Quite the museum’s popular Christmas Cabaret on December 6 and 7, call your comments and/or oK. For The Family series offers anPlease afternoon thatorin-faxand Holiday Tales at the Hearth on December cludes a tour of the exhibitions and supervised art 8. Contact Sands Point at (516)571SigNAture APProvAl: activities with creative themes.oFFor more informa- 7901 or www.thesandspointpreserve.com for tion or to reserve a place, call (516)484-9338 or reservations. visit www.nassaumuseum.org. Donald McDermott is the managing editor.
Making a Point
419 ParkThe Avenue South, 13th Floor, York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 Nassau County Mu- NewSands M.A.T.S.S. Kids Gym, 171 Eileen Way, www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck
L
to:
We Buy, Sell and Trade Gently Used Kids’ Stuff! Bring in your nearly new kids’ stuff, and we’ll pay you cash on the spot for all items accepted
We have something for Everyone!! Over 30 Programs (ages 2 2--15yrs) Sports, Arts, Computers, & Travel
Campus Tours: Sat. Dec. 7th (10 (10--12pm) rsvp at camp@fa.org
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
HBooks and Toys
• Children’s Books & DVDs • Infant-Preschool Toys • Outdoor Toys • Puzzles
• High Chairs & Swings • Gates • Exersaucers • Pack N Plays • Bouncy Seats • Booster Seats (table) • Jumperoos
Clothing must be in good condition, of current style, freshly laundered and neatly organized in boxes or other folding containers. Toys, equipment and furniture items must include all original parts, be clean and 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.
Used Items Buy Back Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-3pm & Saturday 9am-1pm
Visit our website at
www.onceuponachildseaford.com Kid’s Stuff With Previous Experience™
516-579-4200
1089 Hicksville Rd., Seaford
For more information (516) 393-4207 your needs, your neighborhood
¼ Mile North of Southern State Parkway (exit 29N, Rte. 107) STORE HOURS: Monday-Saturday 9 am-6:30 pm & Sunday 11am-5pm
December 2013 I parentguide News I 13
O
ne of the most common challenges facing families today is how to communicate feelings in ways that help instead of hurt. Effective techniques are available, so it’s just a matter of learning these tools and putting them into practice. Whether it’s anger, hurt, fear, sadness, or guilt, research tells us that feelings want to come out. Feelings held too long inside can result in withdrawal, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and a whole rash of psychosomatic problems such as headaches, stomach aches, and difficulty sleeping. On the other hand, expressing feelings in hurtful ways such as with insults, meltdowns, sarcasm, withdrawal, or acting out can create great strains on relationships. There are at least five main ways that children learn how to communicate. These include: watching adult family members as they interact, observing how adults communicate with them, engaging with their siblings, viewing examples on TV shows and in movies, and participating in peer interactions. Since sibling relationships are one of the most important templates for how kids get along with their peers, it’s vital that parents teach social skills to their kids and encourage healthy sibling interac14 I parentguide News I December 2013
tions. Think of life inside the family as a laboratory for learning how to get along with others. Bickering between siblings is one of the most common symptoms that arises from not having the tools to work out feelings. During therapy sessions with families, one of our favorite, lead-in questions is, “Do you guys ever recycle, or do you throw everything in the trash?” We’ll get affirmative answers about recycling things like bottles, cans, and newspapers, and then follow up with, “That’s great, but do you know how to recycle your relationship when things get strained?” The point of the question becomes obvious. One of the conflict-resolution tools that we teach parents and kids is called The Repair Kit. It can provide an effective path toward forgiveness, conflict resolution, and bringing out the best in one another. Once acquired, this method can be used as frequently as needed to help things run smoother.
The Repair Kit In this scenario, person 1 starts as the speaker and person 2 as the listener. Both participants sit face to face so their knees are parentguidenews.com
almost touching. Deep breaths are suggested to help the listener avoid becoming anxious or defensive. If everyone can agree, person 1 shares with person 2 each of the following:
1. A genuine appreciation toward
S
tudies show that people report greater life satisfaction and fewer physical symptoms on the exact days when they feel more understood by others in verbal interactions. Neuroscientists explain that when people feel heard and understood, their emotional brains settle down.
If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thinking that you and your partner may want to try a few coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tune-ups with The Repair Kit, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be embarrassed! Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s often the case, and you can use the exact same model. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve taught it to thousands of couples, too.
the other.
2. Something that upsets him. Examples: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It made me mad when you teased me about my shirt today,â&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like it whenâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;?
3. A wish or a want that would help fix the upsetting issue. Ex-
PROOF
ample: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want you to be nice to me and not tease me.â&#x20AC;? After sharing one way, the flow reverses so that person 1 becomes the listener and person 2 becomes the speaker. Participants should also pause to take deep breaths when reversing roles. Conscious breathing is one of the fastest and most effective de-stressors available.
We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overemphasize the importance of healthy communication. In happy, loving families, everyone takes time to check in and learn how to talk and listen to one another. They know how to repair hurt feelings instead of withdrawing or becoming hurtful to each other. As hard as connecting can be in the hurried pace of our day-to-day lives, quality communication is more important than ever.
PROOF
www.parentguidenews.com â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840 Don and Debra MacMannis are a team both at home and at the
It also helps if parents introduce kids ages 5 and older to The Repair Kit as part of a family meeting when things are going well. Explain, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We know that broken things such as a flat tire need repair. We have also learned that when people arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t acting in caring ways toward each other, something needs to be fixed.â&#x20AC;? The adults can first model The Repair Kit, and then have each family member practice by pretending to be upset with one another about something.
office. Married for more than 30 years, the couple have simultaneously served as directors of the Family Therapy Institute of Santa Barbara, a nonprofit organization. In 2009, Don won the title of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best Family Therapistâ&#x20AC;? in a poll taken by SBParent.com. In 2010, Debra was honored with an Award for Service to the Community by local therapists and the Mayor of Santa Barbara. Additional tips and tools can be found at www.howsyourfamily.com. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning songs and activities related to communication skills may be found at www.kidseps.com.
Schechter School of Long Island:
A K-12 Jewish Day School providing a dual curriculum of excellence and opening doors to endless possibilities, within a safe, caring and supportive community. Schedule your private tour today! Please contact:
Now Accepting Applications for All Grades.
Dr. Tracy Kaplowitz Director of Admissions and Community Engagement Tel. 516.935.1441, Ext. 1115 | admissions@schechterli.org
Excellence Community Possibilities your needs, your neighborhood
Please visit us at: www.schechterli.org
FOllOW us ON FacebOOk:
facebook.com/ssds.sshsli
December 2013 I parentguide News I 15
Before Birth Amusing anecdotes about your hospital stay.
by Katie Bugbee Baby’s almost here, and you’ve got everything in order. All you have to do now is wait for the show to start! Before labor kicks in and you head to the hospital, prepare yourself with some essential insight for the experience. Realize you’ll lose all sense of pride. I remember trying to initially cover up in front of the nurses. But by day 2, you’ve been poked, prodded, and examined by every doctor, nurse, and orderly in the building. I think the food crew even saw my bum. And as the prudest person in America, I couldn’t have cared less. Note that all the planning you’ve done might just go out the window. I spent an entire weekend in Lamaze class. I had a birth plan paired with birthing music. My pantry and freezer were stocked with popsicles and carb-filled foods to fuel me (and cool me) for the hours spent in labor before we headed to the hospital. And then, two weeks before my due date, I woke up feeling funny. Strange enough to head to the ER. I had a rare form of preeclampsia, and the baby needed to come out right away. Emergency C-section. No popsicles. And no Beyoncé. Screaming at your partner will help. It really will. And here’s the secret: Anything you say during labor cannot be held against you. This also applies to the first year after birth. Anything said between the hours of 12am and 4am cannot be brought up the next day. Breastfeeding might be harder than anything you’ve ever done. This is what my husband tells any pregnant woman he knows. It took machines, apparati, lactation consultants, a devoted husband, and at least four hands to get my first baby to eat. At day 5, using pumps, massage techniques, gels and creams, I looked at my husband and said, “When we met freshman year of college, did you ever imagine you’d be handling my boobs this way?” But honestly, you should let people help you, especially your partner. It will bring you closer than you ever thought possible. It’s okay for the baby to sleep in the hospital nursery. So many moms will tell you that their baby slept next to them every night in
the hospital. Well, good for them. But I bet they didn’t sleep one wink, hearing every gurgle. Let a nurse take the baby to a nursery for the night, and bring him to you when it’s time to eat. You’re going to have this baby for the next 60 or more years. You might as well nap now. Ask for help. Truly. Maybe women used to do this all by themselves back in the day, and yay for them. But if you have the opportunity to have night nurses, nannies, and loving family help you with this newborn, take it. You are still in charge (or, the baby is). Once you feel like the support is intruding more than helping, you can start cutting back. Find a new-mom friend. It may be hard at first, but a friend will help you break out of the comfort zone of your sweatpants and jammies. Make a goal to get out of the house for at least an hour each day, breastfeed in a public area (gasp!), or talk through concerns with someone. You’re the queen for the day. Don’t worry about anyone else, the schedules, the well-meaning visitors to the hospital. This day is about you, your partner, and your baby. And once this beautiful bundle is born, make sure everyone takes precious care of you while you care for your new addition.
Katie Bugbee loves any chance to hang out and be silly with her family. When not touring the suburbs of Boston looking for activities to entertain two preschoolers, she can usually be found managing the content at Care.com. 16 I parentguide News I December 2013
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18 I parentguide News I December 2013
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ProoF 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 to:
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Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. SigNAture oF APProvAl:
Family Owned and Operated Since 1954 Licensed by NYS Board of Education and Offices of Children & Family Services
NURSERY SCHOOL/ KINDERGARTEN • Infants-Starting 6 weeks • Toddler Program • Several 3-4 Yr Old Classroom Settings • Kindergarten-Full or half day • Hot Lunches • Spacious Playgrounds • Full & Part Time
Celebrating Our “59th” Year! your needs, your neighborhood
Creative Program • Close Parent-Teacher Contact • Warm Friendly Atmosphere • Qualified Staff • Free Transportation • Extended Hours for • Working Parents
WWW.BIGCHIEFSCHOOLANDCAMP.COM
East Meadow • 781-3900
Early Bird Registration for Camp 2014! December 2013 I parentguide News I 19
Discover Some of the Area’s Finest Programs & Resources! and camp groups, leagues, organizations, and teams are welcome to come bounce off of the floors and walls! Host your next special or corporate event, intramural competition, bar/bat mitzvah, or birthday party at Bounce!
Programs
Bounce! Trampoline Sports® BounceU Farmingdale 310 Michael Drive, Syosset, NY 11791 101 Carolyn Boulevard, Farmingdale, NY 11735 (516)762-1300 (631)777-JUMP (5867) infoli@bounceonit.com. www.bounceu.com/farmingdale www.bounceonit.com/syosset/ BounceU “Long Island’s Best• Fax Children’s 419 Park Avenue South,Farmingdale 13th Floor, Newwas York,voted NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 212-447-7734 419 Park Avenue South,Trampoline 13th Floor, NewSports® York, NY 10016 212-213-8840 • Faxexciting 212-447-7734 Bounce! offers• one of the most Party Place,” “Best Family Amusement” and “Best Camp” for fitness trends in America: jumping, training, working out, and 2011 by the Long Island Press. What do you get when you mix playing indoor sports on massive, interconnected trampoline courts. to: FAx #climate-controlled environ to: FAx # awesome inflatable structures; a clean, Bounce! Trampoline’s jumping courts vary in size and purpose. Also ment; incredible customer service; and non-stop excitement in a featured are a slam dunk basketball court, the first-ever trampoline private-party atmosphere? You get oneDAte: of the best parties ever! bungee jump, a snack bar/lounge, iSSue a dedicated for From: iSSue From: DAte: toddler/youth area BounceU Farmingdale is an indoor party and entertainment venue kids ages 2-6, and a state-of-the-art sound system. Bounce! offers that features warehouse-sized rooms filled with giant inflatable fun physical activities for all ages. Children and adults can play provides a varietyand/or of activities inPlease foam pits, enjoy one-of-a-kind inflatables. Please for callallorages. fax Ityour comments oK. for both callandorkids faxcan your comments and/or oK. Popular structures children and adults. Enjoy enormous slides, inflatable games like activities include free jump, where visitors are invited to perform boxing and basketball, obstacle courses, and so much more! From tricks like flips and twists; trampoline dodgeball; and slam dunk SigNAture oF APProvAl: SigNAture basketball. oF APProvAl: field trips and fundraisers to club outings and team parties, every Skateboarders, boogie boarders, snowboarders are all event is all about “U!” Cleanliness and safety are top priorities welcome to practice their skills on the high-quality trampolines at at BounceU, where the staff is always attentive to your needs. Bounce! For safety, each court features trampoline walls topped Whether scheduling a preschool play date, open bounce session, by netting and covered padding over spring areas. Families, school
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ITALIAN
Language Littles
Benvenuti!
Welcome!
Ongoing Enrollment for Winter/Spring 2014 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.
45 Minute Language Immersion Workshops • Music & Movement, Games • Storytelling, Puppetry • Arts & Crafts & Much More!
We Offer Classes for Children Ages 2 and Up. (800) 728-2692 . musictogether.com Classes in Long Island and Queens. MusicTogetherLI-Queens.com
20 I parentguide News I December 2013
Experience the Fun & Excitement of Learning Italian!
Classes held at: Wind ’n Willow Preschool
1201 North Broadway • Massapequa, NY
For more info, call 631-957-3321 or visit italianlanguagelittles.com parentguidenews.com
PROGRAM DIRECTORY birthday party or fundraiser, make BounceU your number 1 choice for “creating memories that last a lifetime.” BounceU Oceanside 3495B Lawson Boulevard, Oceanside, NY 11572 (516)593-JUMP (5867) oceanside.ny@bounceu.com www.bounce.com BounceU of Oceanside specializes in perfect party ideas and fun programs. It offers amazing inflatable structures, unbeatable customer service, and a climate-controlled environment, so you can enjoy a great time all year. BounceU is happy to host your team or holiday events as well as school or camp field trips. Its state-ofthe-art, clean inflatables are a blast for kids, who can get fit while having fun. Teams that visit love the bounce stadiums and games. Classes that stop by participate activities that build their social skills. Scout troops may earn BounceU Participation Patches. Open Bounces are available as Preschool Playdates, All Ages sessions, and Family Bounce Nights during the year as well. Children bounce, socialize and participate in games. Private parties and fundraisers at BounceU are super easy for parents and exciting for kids. Call or log online to learn more.
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of developmentally appropriate experiences that foster learning, creativity and problem solving, as well as promote a lifelong love of learning. The center boasts four separate fenced-in play yards for large motor development. Children also benefit from activities sponsored by the college. The center is open year round and offers a summer camp program for children ages 5-12 years. It also offers school vacation care for children in grades k through 6 starting in September 2012. Pre-registration is required. Fall 2013: a new building, for which construction has already begun, opens! Visit the website for updates. Call for more information or to schedule a visit. Island Fencing Academy 101-32 Dupont St., Plainview, NY 11803 (516)576-0646 info@islandfencingacademy.com www.islandfencingacademy.com Island Fencing Academy provides the unique opportunity for your child to learn the Olympic sport of fencing in a friendly and safe environment. The sport of fencing is not only a fun and challenging experience, but also it teaches discipline, improves balance and develops eye-hand coordination. The Academy provides the fencing equipment for beginner fencers; all a student needs is comfortable clothes and sneakers. Island Fencing Academy offers the following programs: Youth Intro Program (ages 5-7), developed to introduce fencing to kindergartners and 1st graders using foam weapons and plastic masks of the Mini-Fence® system. Intro Class (ages 7-14) is a one-time, four-week class designed to introduce the sport of fencing to students with little or no prior exposure to fencing. Basic skills taught are footwork, simple offense and defense tactics, rules of the game, and sport etiquette. New classes begin the first week of each month. Intro and Beginner Camps (ages 7-14) are
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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Children’s Center at Farmingdale State University of New York, The Farmingdale, NY 11735 (631)420-2125 crispil@farmingdale.edu www.farmingdale.edu/childcare The Children’s Center has been a well-kept secret since 1980. It is nestled on the grounds of Farmingdale State College. The program serves children ages eight weeks through pre-k and offers a warm and friendly atmosphere. The center provides a wide range
The Children’s Center at Farmingdale State College
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2350 Broadhollow Road Farmingdale, NY 11735 (631) 420-2125 farmingdale.edu/childcare your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I 21
PROGRAM DIRECTORY a fun alternative to regular classes. The camps incorporate lots of physical and mental games. There are two training sessions a day, which include footwork, skills training, tactical sessions, games and boating. Week-long camps run from 10am-3pm. Call for information (516)576-0646 or visit the website (www.islandfencingacademy.com) to learn more about programs if your child is interested in participating in Long Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest growing sport known as Physical Chess! Italian Language Littles, Inc. Windâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;n Willow Preschool 1201 North Broadway, Massapequa, NY 11758 (631)957-3321 italianlanguagelittles@gmail.com 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 Italian 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 nativelike 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 educator 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 Matthewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Italian Language Littles will ensure your child a
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stimulating environment for today and a bright future for tomorrow. Ongoing enrollment. The Little Gym of Levittown 2890 Hempstead Turnpike, Levittown, NY 11756 (516)520-4455 www.tlglevittownny.com Kids soar at The Little Gym, which gives them the best foundation for success. With more than 300 locations in 21 countries, The Little Gym has had decades of research to incorporate into its formula for helping children achieve a lifetime of success. The Little Gym hosts year-round, structured classes broken up by age group. The Little Gym offers children ages 4-8 the opportunity to socialize with peers and develop their imagination. Included are activities in the gym, arts and crafts, group activities, snacks and special events. Schedules are flexible. Programs are led by an expert staff that promotes a non-competitive and nurturing environment. Each day brings a new adventure. Also let The Little Gym help you celebrate your memorable milestones. Awesome Birthday Bash packages include invitations, a qualified birthday leader and assistant, set up and clean up, paper goods, drinks, pizza, and a The Little Gym t-shirt for the birthday child, who attends the party for free. Children ages 1 through 12 will enjoy a celebration theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never forget with The Little Gymâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s help.
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Long Island University Center for Gifted Youth 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville, NY 11548 (516)299-2160 gifted@cwpost.liu.edu www.liu.edu/giftedyouth The Long Island University Center for Gifted Youth is committed to the development of the intellectual potential of each child. Each fall
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22 I parentguide News I December 2013
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PROGRAM DIRECTORY and spring, Saturday classes are offered for gifted students in grades k-6 who pass highly selective admissions requirements. CGY also offers a four week campus-based non-residential summer program for students entering grades 2-8, emphasizing hands-on academic activities. The Center’s purpose is to provide students with the opportunity to relate to each other intellectually and socially. Classes emphasize problem solving, critical thinking and independence in learning. Courses offered include science, math, computers, law, social sciences, and writing. The combination of extraordinary teachers recruited from leading local schools and university facilities, including scientific laboratories and computer rooms, gives the program unique strength in producing positive benefits for students. Workshops for parents of enrolled children are an integral part of the program. These special sessions, conducted by psychologists, explore a variety of issues of interest to parents of gifted children, such as the social and emotional factors of being gifted and sibling rivalry.
birthday parties and vacation mini-camps, and your child will have a year-round play and celebration experience. M.A.T.S.S. even has onsite MADScience for older children during the summer. Early and after care, as well as full-day care, are available to further support working families. Dedicated staff and counselors are CPR and FirstAid certified. M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym is always providing quality and affordable programs all under one roof!
Melody Time Music Center 6 Jerusalem Ave., Hicksville, NY 11801 (516)390-9217 www.melodytimemusic.com For more than a decade, Melody Time Music Center has been providing professional music instruction for students of all levels at its studio in Flushing, Queens. The same enthusiasm and professional instruction is now available on Long Island in Hicksville. Children are invited to take private lessons in piano, guitar, violin, cello, M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym & Early Childcare Education Program flute, clarinet, and music theory. Students participate in annual re2629 Grand Ave., Bellmore, NY 11710 (516)221-1330 citals to showcase their progress and experience the excitement of 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 171 Eileen Way, Syosset, NY 11791 (516)496-7765 performing on stage. Professional instructors also prepare students nancyw@matsskidsgym.com for all levels of the NYSSMA & ABRSM music and music theory FAx # www.matsskidsgym.com to: exams. Melody Time meets all your musical needs by additionM.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym provides children ages 7 months through 12 ally providing instruments for sale or rental and music books for years with a rainbow of programs all under one roof so they may play, purchase. Melody Time Music Center can bring happiness to your From:baby, toddler and separation classes iSSue DAte:and enrich their lives with the magic of music. Call or visit learn and grow. Programs offer children (ages 7-30 months), which bridge development to an early childhood the website to register. education program (ages 20 months-5 years) called M.A.T.S.S. Gym Please or fax your comments and/or oK. School. After-school classes (ages 2-12) includecall gymnastics-cheerMid-Island Y JCC After-School Program leading-dance combos, cooking, and PuterBugs computer instruction, 45 Manetto Hill Road, Plainview, NY 11803 as well as L.I. Elite Dance Company Soccer Shots indoor soccer (516)822-3535 SigNAtureand oF APProvAl: instruction. New this fall: Music for Aardvaarks provides special www.miyjcc.org toddler music classes! Join M.A.T.S.S. for themed summer camp, Looking for an after-school program for your child? The Mid-Is-
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your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I 23
FROM:
ISSUE DATE:
PROGRAM DIRECTORY
Please call Community or fax your comments and/orThe OK.JCC offers land Y Jewish Center has the answer. a wide variety of early childhood, health and fitness, and aquatics classes for children of all ages— from infants to teens. Are you a SIGNATURE working OF APPROVAL: parent? You can have peace of mind with the JCC’s before- and after-school Second Home Day Care Program. Designed for children in grades k-5, the in-building program offers homework assistance/tutoring, computers, enrichment, socialization, free play time, games, videos and snacks. Transportation is provided to and from local Plainview elementary schools by the JCC shuttle. For the sports-minded child, the JCC offers a wide range of gym classes, sports leagues, GaGa, and swim teams. Group and private swimming lessons are available for children ages 6 months and up. Are you looking for a supportive, nurturing environment for your child with special needs? The JCC offers comprehensive, year-round programming for children (pre-k through teens) through The K.I.S.S. Center (Kids In Special Services) as well as
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Peace Mind For•Working Parents 419 Park Avenue South, NewOf York, NY 10016 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734
TO:
Teacher’s Pets Child Care Centers, Inc. ISSUE DATE:
Please call or
• Ages 6 wks-5 yrs • Reasonable Rates • Open Year Round • Meals Provided • Full Daycomments Schedule •and/or CertifiedOK. fax your Staff • Computer Education
At three Convenient Locations
SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: PLAINVIEW
WANTAGH
LEVITTOWN
516-931-8204 516-520-7721 516-731-3263 6:30am-6pm
7am-6pm
Music Together of Long Island and Queens Locations: www.musictogetherli-queens.com Music Together is a delightful, joyous approach to music-making with your child. For infants, toddlers, preschoolers and the adults who love them, Music Together offers families an opportunity to sing, dance and play rhythm instruments in a relaxed, playful, non-performance-oriented setting. It nourishes parents’ efforts to create a rich musical environment at home, regardless of their musical abilities. Offered in ten-to-12-week sessions in many independently owned locations throughout Long Island and Queens, these 45-minute classes are specifically designed to accommodate the unique learning style of the very young while being highly engaging to their adult companions. Music Together is based on the philosophy that all children are musical; you may be surprised to find that you are, too!
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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
FAX #
FROM:
an innovative and affordable after-school program for children in grades 1-6. Call for a free brochure or stop by for a tour. Become a fan of the Mid-Island Y JCC on Facebook.
7am-6:30pm
A NURTURING ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR CHILD
Not Just Art®/Music Together® 183 South St., Oyster Bay, NY (516)922-8300 www.notjustart.com Let creative young minds shine! Located in Oyster Bay, Not Just Art has a flexible calendar of music, art, and science enrichment programs for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and grades k-5. Offerings include: Music Together®, parent/child and separation classes, art, science, open studio hours, school vacation activities, summer camps, birthday parties, Scout troop badges, and custom playgroup events. Additional Music Together centers are located in Huntington, Plainview, Garden City and Manhasset. Not Just
Give Your Young Explorer a Season Surrounded by Nature at
Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium SANTA SATURDAYS!
December 7th, 14th, & 21st • 11am-3pm Have your little one enjoy the Hatchery with Santa.
HOLIDAY BREAK AT THE HATCHERY & AQUARIUM December 26th, 27th, 30th & 31st
Make your ow holiday ornam n to be displaye ent Hatchery & A d on the quar Christmas treeium’s Available thro . ugh December. out
11am- Hatchery Tour 2pm- Live Animal Encounter 1pm- Trout Feeding Demonstration 3pm- Trout Feeding Demonstration
Birthday Parties!
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.
24 I parentguide News I December 2013
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PROGRAM DIRECTORY
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Art’s child-centered environment and approach accommodate a wide range of ages and needs. Children and families experience respectful, nurturing teachers, cozy class sizes, and moments of joyful discovery. The thoughtful curriculum allows children to develop a lifelong love of learning by encouraging their natural sense of wonder and curiosity, collaborative and independent thinking, risk taking, and the expression of ideas. Open-ended projects are designed to ensure all children will feel successful. Staffed by music, art, and science teachers, the programs are unique experiences designed for (and with) each group of children. To spark imaginations and engage curious minds, the lovely little toy store in Oyster Bay has high-quality toys and tools, including: instruments, science and art kits, infant gifts, and creative supplies for all ages! Free gift wrapping.
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Oh My Girls! (516)802-5800 www.ohmygirls.com Oh My Girls! is a unique, cooking, fitness and health club designed exclusively for girls ages 8-18. Its focus is on the physical, nutritional, cognitive and social well-being of young girls. OMG! creates an environment that aims to put the fun back in girlhood while guiding its members toward healthful and successful living. The club was founded by two mothers of young girls who are professionally credentialed in the areas of psychology, counseling, physical fitness, life coaching and law. It has a full commercial kitchen, physical fitness room, an organic make-your-own smoothie bar, and a small boutique for apparel and accessories. A circular-shaped workshop room promotes one-on-one communication during classes, which run the gamut from building positive body image to navigating the challenges of middle school. Oh My Girls! offers a variety of fitness classes that recognize the different exercise demands appropriate for developing adolescent bodies. Oh My Girls! staff of professional chefs lead healthy cooking classes that educate girls in nutrition, healthy choices, self-sufficiency and recipe calculations. The club also runs Girl Scout events, birthday celebrations and other special events for tween and teen girls. OMG! is a media-free zone, where girls unplug from electronics and plug back into their lives. The owners of the center aim to make Oh My Girls! the ultimate stepping stone for every girl to reach her full potential.
• • • • • • • •
You’ ve Neve r Se en Anyt hing Like It!
Trampoline Dodgeball Slam Dunk Basketball Enormous Open Jump Court Multiple Foam Pits First Ever Indoor Trampoline Bungee Jumps Bounce! Jr zone for the Younger Set Check Website for Fitness Class Schedules ...And Now Volleyball!
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Professor Pedals (516)375-8492 www.professorpedals.com Professor Pedals teaches kids and adults how to ride two-wheeled bicycles. They provide one-on-one training lessons for mastering bicycle riding and safety skills. Lessons take place at the student’s home or site. Professor Pedals has a progressive approach to teaching that improves performance and builds confidence, as well as reduces stress and fear. Lessons are structured to meet the strengths and abilities of the individual student. Proprietary training devices and techniques are used to assist in a progressive and efficient learning process. Professor Pedals is fully insured and a member of the League of American Bicyclists.
n ed o r u t , Fea Show y a om Tod e fr v i L & CBS ouch C e th Good x o F NY! Day
Thinkertots 1818 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park, NY 11040 (516)488-3414 222-14 Union Turnpike, Bayside, NY 11364 (718)740-1616 thinkertots@thinkertots.com Thinkertots offers fun, developmentally appropriate, enriching classes for children. Every child is born with potential gifts and talents that are only realized with the appropriate stimulation and guidance. The cutting edge curriculum is provided in a warm, nurturing environment to fulfill your child’s full potential. Offered programs include Parent and Child programs for ages 4 months-3½ years; two-hour nursery drop-off for ages 2-3½ years; two-andyour needs, your neighborhood
Perfect for Birthday Parties, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, Fundraisers, School & Camp Outings and Corporate Team Building! 310 Michael Dr., Syosset • 516-762-1300 bounceonit.com • infoLI@bounceonit.com facebook.com/bouncesyosset twitter.com/bouncesport
December 2013 I parentguide News I 25
PROGRAM DIRECTORY a-quarter-hour, pre-k, drop-off for ages 3-5 years. Your child is introduced to education through a variety of exciting and agespecific activities. Classes include music, art, manipulative toys, movement dance, story time, interacting and socialization skill, and so much more. Children are guaranteed to learn techniques that will carry them through and beyond elementary school. Besides a great education, Thinkertots also offer birthday party packages for children ages five and younger. They are the only party place that caters to young children under the age of 5 years old. Your birthday activities will be custom designed by a party specialist to be just right for your little guests.
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A SociAl leArning ProgrAm deSigned for children who find it hArd to:
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
• PDD-NOS • ADHD/ADD • Asperger’s Syndrome • Non-verbal Learning • Other Social Challenges Disability • High Functioning Autism
StePS to SociAlizAtion 13 South Bayles Ave. • Port washington, nY 11050
t 516.767.0266 • f 516.767.4566 www.s2sny.com 26 I parentguide News I December 2013
walking • eating • learning
If your child is not doing what other kids the same age are doing— ask questions…and get answers.
Call us at 516-731-5588 (press 6) www.mksalomon.com
moving • behaving •
theSe difficultieS Are often ASSociAted with:
playing • talking • smiling
• Establish and maintain friendships • Share space effectively • Initiate and maintain conversations • Understand the hidden meaning of spoken messages • Interpret social cues • Take in another person’s point of view • Pay attention and stay focused • Work in groups • Predict outcomes and solve problems • Comprehend concepts underlying pictures/stories/assignments • Set boundaries • Organize school tasks
Winner’s Edge Sports Training (W.E.S.T.) 156 Railroad St., Huntington Station, NY 11746 (631)367-WEST(9378) www.winnersedgesportstraining.com Winner’s Edge Sports Training (W.E.S.T.) is a 12,000-square-foot indoor sports facility that offers year-round private and group training. Programs are available for baseball, softball, soccer, and lacrosse. Dedicated W.E.S.T. instructors help your children train in the sports they love. Additionally available are batting cage and turf field rentals, open dodgeball games every Friday night, weekly sports classes for preschool-age children, flag football and soccer leagues, school and summer break programs, travel team training programs, and seasonal events. Visit W.E.S.T. to check out its enormous facility and exciting programs. W.E.S.T. is also home to some of Long Island’s best sports-theme birthday parties for children ages 3 and older. Its reasonably priced, full-service parties offer parents a stress-free option for celebrating their child’s special day. All W.E.S.T. parties include full use of the turf field, a private party room, and hosts to lead guests through fun, active games. Call today to reserve a party date.
info@mksalomon.com
125 E. Bethpage Rd., Plainview NY 11803 The Early Intervention program is funded by NYS & county governments for children birth to 3 suspected of having a developmental disability or delay. Services are authorized by the county. The CPSE program is funded & regulated by the NYS Education Department, county and your local school district for children 3-5. Services for both programs are provided at no direct cost to families for children who meet eligibility guidelines.
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Special Needs and Health & Fitness Services Close to Home Special Needs
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O UR R ECIP E FO R CHILD CAR E Sec u rity.......... knowing you r c hild is in g ood ha nds. W a rm th........... lots of “TLC” Experienc e...... knowing qu a lity c hild c a re bring s m a ny rewa rds. ienc e a pprec ia tion from ou r extended fa m ilies Enthu sia sm ..... exper a nd the joy of knowing the c hildren ha ve m a de m a ny new friends.
Tea c hing .........ou r c hildren love to lea rn & pla y.
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J.M. Ladge Speech & Hearing Center C.W. Post Campus/Long Island University Northern Boulevard, Brookville, NY 11548 (516)299-2437 joyce.rubentein@liu.edu www.liu.edu/cwpost/ladge The C.W. Post J.M. Ladge Speech & Hearing Center serves as a complete diagnostic and therapeutic facility providing speech, language and audiological services for children as well as adults with communication disorders. All services are offered at reasonable rates during day and evening hours. A full range of services include evaluation and treatment of articulation and phonological disorders and language and language learning difficulties, including difficulty with auditory processing and phonemic awareness, stuttering, aphasia and voice disorders. The Center offers accent reduction services for adults and students, stroke rehabilitation programs and groups for children focused on listening, reading readiness and delayed speech/language development. Individual feeding and swallowing services are available, as are mealtime play and
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16 YEARS •CELEBRATI Ages 6 Weeks toN 5G Years OUR S UM M ER 17 years PROG RAM •• 7am-6pm Age s 6 w e eDaily ks to 5 Y e a rs • Fun-Filled & Educational • 7a m -6pm Da ily • Activities Fu n -Fille d Daily & Ed u c a tio n a l • Specialty Classes: Ac tivitie s Da ily Dance & Gymnastics • S pe c ia lty C la s s e s : • Nutritious Meals Daily Da n c e Indoor/Outdoor & G ym n a s tic s • Large • Play Nu trit io u s M e a ls Da ily Area •• On-Site La rge In dOwner-Directors o o r/Ou td o o r Pla y Are a • On -s ite o w n e r-d ire c to rs www.sweettotscreativechildcare.com w w w .s w e e ttots c re a tive c hild c a re .c om
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631-367-WEST December 2013 I parentguide News I 27
SPECIAL NEEDS & HEALTH & FITNESS DIRECTORY language play groups, for those from birth through age 5. For further information, contact Dr. Joyce Rubenstein, Ph.D., director of the Ladge Speech & Hearing Center at C.W. Post, joyce.rubenstein@ liu.edu.
Steps to Socialization (s2s) 13 South Bayles Ave., Port Washington, NY 11050 (516)767-0266 info@s2sny.com www.s2sny.com Is your child left out of playdate invitations? Does your child sit on the sidelines at recess? Steps to Socialization (s2s) is a social learning program for children who have difficulty with social interactions. Steps to Socializationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highly trained staff guides students, in groups of 3-4, in learning the skills required to develop and maintain friendships, interpret social cues and work in groups. Skills taught include predicting what someone else is thinking about, how behavior impacts on others, and how to be part of a group. Using targeted activities and role playing, students are equipped with the skills needed to navigate the social world. The program is for children with average to above-average cognitive skills in grades 1 through 8. s2s teaches children how to think socially, step by step.
Marion K. Salomon & Associates 125 East Bethpage Road, Plainview, NY 11803 (516)731-5588 www.mksalomon.com Marion K. Salomon & Associates believes early diagnosis and treatment are important in improving childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s confidence and competence in all areas. This is a caring group of professionals with many years of experience in working with infants and children of all ages. Marion K. Salomon & Associates makes every effort to enhance your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development and to respond quickly and sensitively to your concerns as parents and caregivers. Its goal is to provide prompt accurate evaluations, effective treatment and support for families in Long Island, Queens and Brooklyn. Services offered are: speech and language pathology, Prompt, Park Avenue South,(ABA), 13th Floor, New York, â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax 212-447-7734 special education, Applied419 Behavior Analysis physical andNY 10016 Vincent Smith School occupational therapies, nutritional counseling, psychological and 322 Port Washington Boulevard, Port Washington, NY 11050 social work services. Marion (516)365-4900 to: K. Salomon & Associates is known FAx # for its accurate and perceptive autism diagnostic evaluations. If www.vincentsmithschool.org your child receives home-based services, Marion K. Salomon & The Vincent Smith School is well-known for its individualized Associates will go to wherever program From:your child is; at home, in school, at iSSue DAte: for reluctant learners and learning disabled students in daycare, etc. Marion K. Salomon & Associates also offers services grades 4-12. VSS has a history of excellence dating back to 1924. at its Plainview clinic, including parent and child groups and play Located on four and a half acres in suburban Port Washington, and social groups. Marion K. Salomon & Associates adds newcomments Vincent and/or Smith School Please call or fax your oK. is a private day school, serving students options all the time. Please check the website for information about in Nassau, Suffolk, and Queens Counties in New York. It offers clinic services, groups, trainings and workshops. students differentiated instruction in small supportive classes. StuSigNAture oF APProvAl: dents experience academic success, emotional growth and social acceptance. More than 83 percent of graduates go on to college.
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28 I parentguide News I December 2013
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From:
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or fax your Dentistry comments and/or oK. Dr.Please Mindycall Homer Pediatric Vincent Smith School is chartered by the New York State Board 800 Community Drive, Suite 200, Manhasset, NY 11030 of Regents as an independent, nonprofit institution and is accredited by the New York State Association of Independent Schools. SigNAture(516)869-9500 oF APProvAl: www.doctor-mindy.com It takes pride in being a place where it’s okay to learn differently. Did you know that approximately 40 percent of children have The Vincent Smith School is open to all without regard to race, cavities by the time they reach kindergarten, and it is now creed, or national origin. recommended that children see a dentist no later their first birthday? Dr. Mindy knows that dental visits in early childhood can prevent cavities. Dr. Mindy earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery at Health & Fitness Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. She continued her training at Columbia University New York Presbyterian Hospital, where she earned her specialty degree in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Mindy Dr. Jodi Guttenberg, D.D.S., and Associates, Pediatric Dentistry is board certified and provides the best dental care to pediatric, 111 North Park Ave., Rockville Centre, NY 11570 adolescent and special needs patients. Dr. Mindy’s mission is to (516)678-7422 make the dental experience fun and anxiety-free for the whole Does your child know proper tooth-brushing? Are you concerned family. She believes in educating parents and children in cavity that thumb-sucking, pacifier or bottle use is continuing too long? Pediatric dentist Jodi Guttenberg and her associates can help. They recommend that children visit the dentist for the first time LOW COST FEEDING, Are You at 2 years of age, and they encourage parents to be in the room LANGUAGE & PLAY Worried About whenever it’s possible. During their first visit, they examine the GROUPS child, clean the child’s teeth and administer a fluoride treatment. Your Child’s Speech, They’ll also discuss the child’s diet, especially if there’s evidence Language or Hearing? that it’s impacting dental health. They also provide crowns, root Complete Speech, Language and Hearing Evaluation canals and fillings for even the youngest of their patients— they’ve and Therapeutic Center for Children & Adults seen cavities in patients as young as 18 months old. Often local anesthesia is sufficient for these procedures, and they try to avoid Ladge Speech & Hearing Center putting children “out” if at all possible. They have a “tell, show, do” approach, which helps to dispel the fear of the unknown, and at C.W. Post • Reasonable Rates For more information call: their specialized training helps them to be empathetic with children • Infant, Toddlers and School Age Children Dr. Joyce Rubenstein, Director and to understand their needs. They accept insurance as partial • Day & Evening Hours 516-299-2437 payment. Call for more information. Dr. Jodi Guttenberg is a Board email: joyce.rubenstein@liu.edu • Children’s Eating and Chatting Groups Certified Pediatric Dentist. L.I.U. • C.W. Post • Brookville • Individual & Group Therapy
New
your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I 29
SPECIAL NEEDS & HEALTH & FITNESS DIRECTORY prevention. She takes the time to understand the needs of your child and family, and she provides individualized treatment plans to address them. Dr. Mindy’s office is a reflection of her philosophy. It offers a modern, kid-friendly environment with video games in every room. She has digital x-rays to reduce the amount of radiation exposure to your child. Her warm and courteous staff will welcome you with a smile at each appointment. Call today to schedule an appointment or visit www.doctor-mindy.com for more information. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
programs and services, such as AsthmaCare, DiabetesCare and BabyCare, with a special focus on health awareness and prevention activities. Fidelis Care serves more than 783,000 members in 59 counties statewide through a growing network of more than 51,000 providers. Individuals seeking affordable health insurance coverage should contact Fidelis Care toll-free at (888)FIDELIS (888-3433547) or visit www.fideliscare.org.
That Broadway Smile 800 North Broadway, Massapequa, NY 11758 Fidelis Care (516)753-KIDS (888)FIDELIS / (888)343-3547 www.thatbroadwaysmile.com www.fideliscare.org Bright smiles get their start at That Broadway Smile, where the In New York State, there are more than 343,000 children younger staff specializes in pediatric and special needs dentistry. The top than 19 without health insurance. It’s a shocking statistic considering priority of Dr. Mary Ellen Nesnay and her staff is to help your child there is free or low-cost coverage available to nearly every child achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile in a fun, nurturing, younger than 19, regardless of family income, through the state’s and friendly environment. The experienced and knowledgeable Child Health Plus program. Child Health Plus with Fidelis Care dentists at Broadway Smile treat tots through teens from all parts offers children comprehensive coverage, including regular of Long Island and Manhattan in a relaxed, comforting atmosphere. Park Avenue South, 13thlab Floor, NewX-rays, York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 Fax 212-447-7734 checkups, hospitalization,419 emergency treatment, tests, Because the staff at• Broadway Smile understands there is a distinct eye care, well-child visits, immunizations, preventive care and difference between pediatric and general dentists, its members are more. Through partnerships with providers and local communities, exceptionally attuned to children’s needs, behaviors, and fears. It’s TO: FAX # Fidelis Care works to foster a healthier future for children and their recommended that children visit the dentist upon arrival their first families. Fidelis Care offers a spectrum of health and wellness birthday or tooth. That Broadway Smile doctors teach parents and children FROM: ISSUE DATE:about preventative care to keep teeth healthy for a lifetime. The dentists also have many years of experience treating children with special needs. Dr. Mary Ellen Nesnay spent an entire year after dental school working exclusively with patients with special Please call or fax your comments and/or OK. needs at Stony Brook Dental School. And she commonly treated patients with special needs during her two-year, pediatric dental residency at LIJ/Schneider’s Children’s Hospital. To schedule an SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: appointment, call or check out the website.
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Dr. Mindy Pediatric Dentistry Dentistry For Pediatric, Adolescent & Special Needs Patients state-of-the-art facility equipped with the
latest technology modern, kid friendly environment with
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digital x-rays
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evening & weekend appointments available to make an appointment call (516) 869-9500 Most Insurance Plans Accepted Toward Payment
Mindy Homer, D.D.S. 800 Community Drive • Manhasset, NY 11030 www.doctor-mindy.com
30 I parentguide News I December 2013
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SPECIAL NEEDS & HEALTH & FITNESS DIRECTORY Enrichment/Tutoring Service Mathnasium Learning Centers 43-17 Bell Boulevard, Bayside (718)747-MATH (6284) www.mathnasium.com/bayside 3430 Sunrise Highway, Wantagh (516)799-MATH (6284) 414 Central Ave., Cedarhurst (516)569-1500 www.mathnasium.com/fivetowns 1141-3 Jericho Turnpike, Commack (631)543-MATH (6284) Forest Hills (718)544-MATH (6284) 11 Great Neck Road, Great Neck (516)482-MATH (6284) www.mathnasium.com/greatneck 2795 Middle Country Road, Lake Grove (631)619-6949 www.mathnasium.com/lakegrove 381 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook (516)881-7997 www.mathnasium.com/lynbrook 1003 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park (516)616-MATH (6284) www.mathnasium.com/newhydepark 419 Park(516)484-MATH Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 217A Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights (6284) www.mathnasium.com/roslyn 110 Jackson Ave., SyossetTO: (516)944-MATH (6284) FAX # www.mathnasium.com/syosset-jericho Mathnasium Learning Centers, with more than 300 locations in the United States, as well as inFROM: 16 countries, offer math-only education- ISSUE DATE: al programs. In a relaxed, homework-free environment, Mathnasium enables kids to focus on sharpening their math skills. Mathnasium students develop and maintain the mathematics and comments and/or OK. Please callknowledge or fax your confidence needed to succeed in the information age. Mathnasium is a learning center where kids go to catch up, keep up, or get ahead SIGNATURE APPROVAL: in math. Programs run year round forOFkids of all ages.
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December 2013 I parentguide News I 31
“Your child has autism.” What would go through your mind if you heard those words? Would you freak out? We felt this shock when we first learned of our kids’ diagnoses, but then we learned to live and grow with it. Autism is a spectrum disorder, which means it affects every child differently. There’s a saying: The autism spectrum is so wide that “if you’ve met one child with autism, you’ve met one child with autism.” Even the children with similar deficits present them and learn to cope with them in different ways. Many people mistakenly equate acceptance of the diagnosis with surrender. It’s really not the case. There are certain things you will need to accept, chief among them is that there’s no cure. But it doesn’t mean conditions won’t get better than they are now. Delayed and slowed development don’t equate to no development. Children will still grow and learn. The processes are just going to take longer, be harder, and require more effort. Once you accept the things you can’t change, you can focus your energy, efforts, and resources on the things on which you can have an impact. With that in mind, here are some tips to help you out when facing a diagnosis of autism:
1
Manage expectations. This is a marathon, not a sprint; you’re not going to “fix” this overnight. This is a life-changing event for you and everyone who is a part of your life. Go with what you know and can do. For example, just because your kid can’t play in little league doesn’t mean he can’t ever play sports. Our children are now competitive ice skaters! Why? Because when you like to spin and don’t get dizzy, it’s considered a skill in figure skating. Measure success in 32 I parentguide News I December 2013
months or years, not days. Sometimes it will feel like you’re getting nowhere, until you look back six months, and realize how far your family has come.
2
Get early intervention ASAP. Time is your enemy. Studies have shown that the earlier help is given to address the needs of a child with autism, the better. You might have to fight the mentality that “they’ll grow out of it.” Most children can improve, but only with a lot of help. Yes, it can be a bit of a pain and feel like you’ve given up your privacy when there are so many people offering assistance. Look at the bright side, you will be able to actually leave the house again. And privacy, for us, is reserved for weekends.
3
Learn the techniques. The therapists won’t live with you 24/7; you have to be involved, too. They aren’t just training your child; they are also training you. The therapy techniques may seem counterintuitive in the beginning. Like we did at first, you may want to argue philosophies to learn as much as you can. Remember this: The techniques work and are worth it.
4
Learn the lingo. Autism experts use a boatload of acronyms, and you need to be able to communicate with them. Yes, it’s like learning a Martian language. There is a plethora of jargon that makes no sense at first. However, take the time to figure it out, and take notes.
5
Take care of yourself. You’re allowed to have fun, and you can’t advocate for your child if you’re burned out. This is really, really important. The first thing we all forget to do, or feel too guilty to do, is have fun without the kids. Find an outlet for happiness and stress relief, and make yourself stick to it. Make sure you remember you’re in this together. There is no need to feel guilty about needing a date night, learning karate, or even just going to a grown-up movie that has absolutely no animated characters. parentguidenews.com
6
Don’t lock yourself away. You and your child need to be exposed to the world. What’s the point of all this work if you’re not going to “live?” We all practice avoidance at first because it’s easier than the alternative. It’s tough to go through the routine of getting ready to only spend a short amount of time outside. Do it anyway. The time eventually gets longer. The first time we went to Disneyland, we lasted maybe an hour. We can last all day now, sometimes.
7 8
Watch out for each other. Divorce and caregiver depression is a big concern. Your partner is the only person who knows what you’re going through. Talk to the that person. Share your feelings and hugs. Don’t try to go it alone. You will burn out if you don’t take care of yourself and your relationships. Have a support system of family and friends who can help out. And some of those relationships need to have nothing to do with autism. You are more than your child’s diagnosis. Having true balance in your life is incredibly important.
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419 Park Avenue South, every 13th Floor, Give up services when you’re done. There are 50,000 kids diagnosed with autism year.New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 Resources are more limited now than ever. There is literally another kid in line behind yours to: for which you fought so hard, FAx # waiting for help. And we know how difficult it is to give up something but the point of the therapy is to graduate when the time comes.
10
From:
iSSue DAte:
Don’t blame yourself. When you can forgive yourself, you can better focus on helping your child. Accept what you can’t change, and then fight like mad for everything else.
Please call or fax your comments and/or oK.
Autism parenting is still parenting. It’s just a heck of a lot more intense. You are a parent first. Your child still knows how to push your buttons better than anyone else. We always tell folks, “autistic, not stupid.” Never confuse the two,oF or APProvAl: they will own you. And never, never confuse disability with inability. SigNAture Andy and Melissa Areffi have three children with autism. Their book is Navigating Autism: The Essential How-to by Parents for Parents (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform). Learn more about the Areffi family at www.navautism.com.
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raffic, SA, and antrums, by Princess Ivana Pignatelli Aragona Cortes
Eight tips for surviving holiday travel with your kids. raveling with children — especially during the holiday rush — can seem like training for an Olympic sport. It will push your endurance (and sanity!) to the limit. But there are some things you can do to tone down the madness and limit the “Bah, humbug.” The better organized you are, the easier it gets. I write from experience. I have worked with children for more than 20 years, and I have a master’s degree in education. While I’m also a modern-day princess, I come from modest means and met my Prince Charming, Adriano Pignatelli Aragona Cortes, Prince of the Holy Roman Empire, while on scholarship at Pepperdine University. My most valuable source of education by far is my experience as a mother to our two children. As an American who married an Italian, I frequently fly with my family. I’ve learned a lot of travel-disaster lessons in the School of Hard Knocks, and I’ve developed crisis-averting strategies that have been real lifesavers. The following survival tips will help make your family trip the wonderful adventure it should be.
1. Plan ahead...and plan some more.
Make a list of everything you’ll need for travel, and check it twice. Give yourself plenty of time to consider your schedule and all possible scenarios. How many nap times and mealtimes are there? If a nap happens mid-flight, make sure you have sleep essentials handy. Pack a distraction like a portable DVD player in case sleep doesn’t occur. Check connecting destinations for kid-friendly restaurants and areas.
2. Travel light(ish).
Start packing at least a day or two before departure. Consider
SK-Dec. ‘13
34 I parentguide News I December 2013
whether your vacation spot has items you can borrow or buy to maintain light luggage. Consolidate as much of your luggage as possible. If you’re checking most of your bags, don’t forget a carry-on with extra outfits for the little ones in case of spills!
3. Organize your Mary Poppins purse.
Choose a bag with plenty of separate pockets and compartments for storage of snacks, baby gear, wipes, etc. Make sure the things you’ll need most often are easily accessible. Keep essential travel documents in a noticeable wallet. Use a carry-on Ziploc bag for medications the family might need, such as infant fever reducer, throat soothers, and gas and allergy relievers.
4. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. It always takes longer to get out of the house than anticipated thanks to traffic, airport lines, tantrums, and dirty diapers. Leave a half-hour or more earlier than you think you need.
5. Ace airport security.
Use the “Green Circle” lanes, which offer extra time and assistance to get through the lines. Know the latest TSA regulations, available at www.tsa.gov. Encourage the family to wear slip-on shoes and easy-to-remove jackets. parentguidenews.com
6. Fill their bellies.
Make sure you have plenty of snacks (like infant formula and finger foods) for your brood to enjoy en route. If you’re flying, have a baby bottle ready for take-off and landing as swallowing helps your baby’s ears adjust to pressure changes. For older children, a low-sugar lollipop works great. Don’t forget to fuel yourself. Drink plenty of water and eat when the kids do.
7. Make time fly with entertainment.
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Whatever your travel method, chances are you’ll have a lot of downtime. Buy a new toy for the trip. Bring books and an iPad — whatever it takes to keep your children from reaching octave levels that break the sound barrier. A few “new” things will keep kids occupied longer. Music is a great soother, so kid-friendly headphones are a great investment. And don’t forget comfort
items like a favorite stuffed animal, sleep pillow, or soft blanket.
8. Map out your road trip.
Proof
Traveling by car with pint-sized passengers can be just as stressful as flying, but many of the same rules apply. Have plenty of snacks and toys on hand to keep your children occupied. A DVD player and headphones may just save your sanity, too. When planning your route, account for rest stops such as parks that give the kids a chance to run around. And always have extras on hand when it comes to diapers, pacifiers, and wipes.
Remember, • holiday travel with chilwww.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com 212-213-8840 dren doesn’t have to mean you reach the end of your rope before the end of the road. Simplify your vacation through planing and preparedness. Travel safely!
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 princess, Ivana didn’t wait for a kiss to save her; using her master’s degree in education, she forged a career of her own as a digital strategy consultant. Ivana and her Prince Charming have two fabulous kids.
THE POCONOS’ FAVORITE FAMILY SKI RESORT
1
# Where Family Fun is Guaranteed!
Overall Resort
in the East! SKI Magazine Reader Survey — 2014
SAVE BIG ON WINTER FUN!
Visit www.shawneemt.com/deals
- Discounts & Deals - Affordable Ski & Stay Offers - All Inclusive Beginners Packages starting at $69.00 - Includes Lift, Rental & First Time Lesson
This only tells part of the story.
Being here says it all.
Smugglers’ Notch Vermont has more ways to make Winter fun, on and off the slopes! Discover all the adventures that await your family this Winter.
Shawnee Mountain Ski Area
I-80 PA Exit 309 | Shawnee on Delaware, PA 18356 570-421-7231 | www.ShawneeMt.com
your needs, your neighborhood
Call 1.866.771.3717 or visit smuggs.com/pg to learn about our Vermont Winter Experience Package and ask how you can SAVE on your Winter Vacation!
December 2013 I parentguide News I 35
Holiday Trips and Destinations Ski Butternut 380 State Road, Route 23, Great Barrington, MA 01230 (413)528-2000 info@SkiButternut.com www.SkiButternut.com SKI Magazine described Ski Butternut as “A True Family Mountain.” It’s easily accessible for NYC residents, about a 2½-hour drive north into the beautiful Berkshire Mountains of Western Massachusetts, where a friendly staff waits to greet you. Butternut features 22 classic New England Trails, 11 lifts including three quad chairlifts, two terrain parks and a snowmaking system that covers 100 percent of the mountain. Ski Butternut is known for great grooming, which converts the trails into fresh corduroy nightly. Ski Butternut offers exceptional learning programs for children. The Adventurers program teach children ages 4-13 how to ski. Ages 4-13 can learn to snowboard in their miniRIDERS program. A Tubing Center makes sliding downhill fun for kids and parents alike! Ski Butternut offers many great deals including specials for those who serve: military, police, firefighters, EMT’s and scouts, plus online coupons for 5th graders and college students, there is even a money saving first-timers package and many more. Ski Butternut is a shining jewel in the Berkshires that’s making skiing and riding affordable! Check out the mountain SnowEAST Magazine readers rated: #1 Classic Resort, #1 ski area in Mass. and #1 Favorite Eastern Resort.
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Shawnee Mountain Ski Area P.O. Box 339, Hollow Road Shawnee-on-Delaware, PA 18356 (570)421-7231 www.shawneemt.com Shawnee Mountain is family and beginner-friendly! Complete with 23 slopes and trails of every difficulty level from beginner to expert and two terrain parks, this Pennsylvania escape is sure to please the whole family. Shawnee has the Pocono Plunge snow tubing park, with individual and two-person (adult and child) tubing. They also offer tubing birthday party packages; call group sales office for details! Installed in 2011, The Tomahawk Express is a high-speed, four-person chairlift, which whisk skiers and snowboarders to the top of the mountain in just three minutes. Despite its high speed, the new chairlift is very beginner and child friendly, slowing 75 percent for loading and unloading. For children ages 7-15 there are skiing and snowboarding daily programs. Other children’s programs include SKIwee for ages 46 and SKIbaby for age 3 and younger. Each program lasts three or six hours daily and includes constant supervision and instruction, lunch and a snack. A variety of accommodations fits the needs of every family from two-three bedroom townhouses and chateaus to condos, villas, The Summit Lodge for groups and the charming Victorian-era Shawnee Inn.
PROOF
Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont 4323 Vermont Route 108 South, Smugglers’ Notch, VT 05464 (866)771-3717 www.smuggs.com/pg Choosing Smugglers’ for your family’s winter vacation is easy! In this year’s SKI Magazine reader survey, Smugglers’ was voted #1 Overall Resort in the East and #1 for family vacations in the East – for the 15th year! This northern Vermont winter wonderland is blanketed by an average annual snowfall of 300 inches, and recent snowmaking enhancements ensure a great experience on the slopes. New activities for family fun include mini snowmobile rides for kids and a heated cabin groomer tour with spectacular mountain views. America’s Family Resort features award-winning children’s programs (6weeks-17years), mountainside village lodging, indoor pool, FunZone entertainment center, hot tubs, shopping, dining and entertainment. Experience year-round Zip Line Canopy Tour, three interconnected mountains with more than 1,000 acres of terrain, 78 trails and 2,610-ft vertical for skiing & snowboarding, plus dedicated trails for cross-country and snowshoeing. Smugglers’ is so serious about delivering on a great Winter vacation, each Club Smugglers’ Package comes with a Family Fun Guarantee, which states that each guest participating in one of the snow sport programs will learn to ski or snowboard or improve their skiing or riding skills or their lesson portion of the package will be refunded! Ask about the Vermont Winter Experience Vacation Package combining on and off snow fun! Smugglers’ Notch Vermont… your best value for Family Fun– anywhere! Call 1(866)771-3717 today to make your reservation or visit www.smuggs.com/pg. 36 I parentguide News I December 2013
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your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I 37
Whether you want to pique your child’s curiosity with an educational gift, or you just want to provide him with the opportunity to have fun, PARENTGUIDE News has a vivacious variety of picks for this holiday season. The best part? We’re giving away every, single item in this gift guide at win. parentguidenews.com! Visit the website for details and chances to win these eye-catching toys.
Bold and Bright Children who love to draw will be delighted to see their creations come alive with the Crayola Digital Light Designer, available at www.crayola.com. The 360-degree, dome-shape Designer uses LED technology to provide tots with a surface on which to draw, animate creations, and play games. Its mesmerizing lights and ability to spark imagination make this toy a great asset on any wishlist.
Fostering Family Time The heartwarming mission of Cooper & Kid, founded with the help of Kickstarter, is to support dads in their parenting journey. The brand offers subscription-based The Cooper Kits, which feature curated boxes of materials to create projects. Father and child may try their hands at making things, like a catapult and biplane, while learning all about how they work from the other provisions in The Cooper Kit. Discover more at www.cooperandkid.com.
Smile for the Camera For the budding photographer in your life, PLAYSKOOL presents the innovative SHOWCAM, a digital camera and projector. Children ages 3 and older will enjoy snapping holiday scenes with this device and then instantly sharing their results on the nearest suitable surface. The camera and projector was specifically built for little hands and comes with a variety of fun features, like the ability to add sound effects. Head to www.hasbrotoyshop.com to file this gift in the “purchased” pile.
Tablet for Tots With the InnoTab 3S, a Wi-Fi-enabled learning tablet, you no longer have to sacrifice your beloved device for your child’s entertainment. It comes equipped with VTech Kid Connect, an app that connects kids with their parents and friends, and a kid-safe Web browser. Children ages 3 through 9 will enjoy this enriching tablet, available at Toys “R” Us.
38 I parentguide News I December 2013
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Need for Speed Does your kid enjoy zipping, zooming, and revving? The Silverlit Mercedes Benz SLS AMG has all of the thrills an adventurer could want. Controlled by Bluetooth with any “i-Device,” the sports car zips and zooms through a number of speed settings as it twists and turns. Children ages 8 and older will also want to revv up the noise with the sports car’s high-tech speaker system that can stream music. Start your engines at www.silverlit.com.
On-the-Go Games
Quirky and Cute By now, your family has likely experienced the curious charm of UGLYDOLL plush creatures. Fans of the stuffed monsters are sure to also enjoy UGLYDOLL: GOIN’ PLACES! (VIZ Media) by Travis Nichols, a graphic novel that takes readers on a voyage through the Uglyverse. Kids can tag along with characters like Wage and Ice-Bat as they travel through time and space. Start your child’s journey at www.uglydolls.com.
Photo credit: ™® and © 2012, Pretty Ugly, LLC. All Rights Reserved
If your youngster craves a cell phone, but isn’t quite ready to have one, you’ll want to check out the PlayMG, a pocketable, Wi-Fi, app-gaming system for kids. Available at www.playmg.com, the device comes with two games, a camera, stereo capability, and more.
Suite Set Introduce the world of PLAYMOBIL® to the next generation with the PLAYMOBIL Large Furnished Hotel. The dwelling comes with a working elevator, furnished rooms, figures, and many other scene-setting accessories. Jumpstart your child’s imagination with this set, available at www.playmobil.us.
Mechanics of Fun
Wish for Fish Kids who are ready for a pet may be delighted with The AquaFarm, which the whole family can cherish. Offered at www.backtotheroots.com, this fish tank is self-cleaning and actually grows food. The closed-loop ecosystem comes with all major components and a discount coupon for a fish friend.
Photo credit: Chris Roche
For the tinkerer in your life, littleBit offers an electronic building toy that makes science and technology accessible and enjoyable. Comprised of modules that snap together to make simple circuits, littleBits Exploration Kits enable young inventors to produce power, light, sound, and pulse. These elements are then used to create a Morse code machine, a glow-in-the-dark puppet, a bubble flute, and other electronics. Open the gateway to tech exploration at www.littlebits.com.
Rachel Kalina is the editor-in-chief. your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I 39
The truth about children’s dental health
by Anita Duhl Glicken, M.S.W.
MOUTH
MYTHS
Throughout the last decade, oral health has become an important topic of discussion in the health care community. Many studies now link oral health to overall health. A person’s mouth is teeming with bacteria, but most of them are harmless. Normally, the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, can keep bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Cavities are the result of a bacterial infection, and young children can “catch” the harmful bacteria that cause cavities. It’s important to try to keep these harmful bacteria from our children’s mouths during their first year or two. If left unchecked, they become the dominant bacteria, and the child with them could experience a lifetime of tooth decay. Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood. It is five times more common than asthma. Untreated, tooth decay can have serious, negative effects on a child’s physical, social, and educational development. Mouth pain makes it difficult to eat a healthy diet, to learn to speak properly, and to concentrate in school. Untreated tooth decay in baby teeth can damage a child’s permanent teeth. 40 I parentguide News I December 2013
The benefits of oral health education and prevention (screening and counseling regarding diet and oral care habits, fluoride varnish application) significantly outweigh the cost of dental disease. For example, full mouth restoration in a hospital operating room costs $6,000 to $10,000. Preventative fluoride varnish application costs 75 cents, takes less than three minutes, and can be done during routine visits to the dentist’s office. Here are some tips to get you started in the right direction when facing common myths about oral health:
1 - It’s okay to share utensils and cups with your children while eating. Almost every parent is guilty of it, but parents should always use a separate utensil or cup when eating with their child. Recent studies have shown young children can get cavities from Streptococcus mutans (MS), a bacterium that can pass from person to person through the transfer of saliva. A 2008 study in Pediatric Dentistry pointed to mothers as the primary source of the MS colonization in their children.
2 - Blowing on food is the best way to cool down your child’s meal. Well, not if you are worried about their oral health. MS bacteria can easily be transferred to food and then to children’s mouths. parentguidenews.com
3 - Sugar eats tooth enamel, causing cavities. The true culprit is the bacteria in the mouth, which convert sugar into enamel-eroding acid. Tooth enamel does not grow back, and once destroyed, sensitive dentine are exposed to decay. Cutting back on sugary foods provides less fuel for bacteria, and brushing and flossing regularly are vital to keep bacteria and cavity counts low.
4 - Losing baby teeth to tooth decay is okay. It is a common myth that losing baby teeth due to tooth decay is insignificant because baby teeth fall out anyway. Tooth decay in baby teeth can actually result in damage to the developing crowns of the permanent teeth growing below them. If baby teeth are lost prematurely, the permanent teeth may erupt mal-positioned and eventually require orthodontics.
5 - You don’t need to worry about cavities in baby teeth. As mentioned above, baby teeth hold the space for permanent teeth. If cavities are left untreated in baby teeth, they can develop into serious pain and abscesses. Occasionally the infection can spread to other areas of the body, and in rare occasions, it can even result in death.
As parents, we want what is best for our children. Be sure when you visit your doctor’s office that the health care professionals you see evaluate all areas of your child’s health, including their oral health. These medical professionals can easily be the first to spot early signs of tooth decay and other oral diseases. They can help your dentist nip the problem in the bud before it gets out of hand. And, of course, practice good oral health care with your children, ensuring they brush their teeth twice per day, floss, and limit sugary foods. These simple things can secure them healthy smiles many years down the road.
Anita Duhl Glicken, M.S.W., is the president and C.E.O. of the nccPA Health Foundation and is project leader of the National Interprofessional Initiative on Oral Health (NIIOH) Physician Assistant Initiative. The program is leading the oral health charge among primary care providers, such as certified physician assistants who are often on the frontlines of oral health emergencies, education, and prevention.
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December 2013 I parentguide News I 41
Ellen Legare and d, Sallianne McClellan .You creators of Art is.. treats xed Media Art Re
Mi
MixedMedia
Mamas
.
lay p o t n io s is m r e p Give yourself
by Sallianne McClelland
Think you’re not “creative?” Forget what your art teacher at school told you. If you are just starting out, it is not necessary to invest in a lot of supplies or Everyone is an artist! the most expensive items. Sometimes the acrylic paints found in a dollar store are a good place to start. You can never go wrong with a pencil case filled with It can be hard to explore your inner artist when you’re a mom. But the benefits of carving out time from your schedule to learn a new skill, make scissors, a glue stick, paint brush, three favorite paints, a ruler, and simple sewnew friendships, and nourish yourself can leave you relaxed, refreshed, ing kit. Start small. Start simple. Find what you enjoy, and then expand your and happier. supplies and skills as your passion leads you. Attending an art retreat, which lasts anywhere In addition to the extensive workshop offerings, many mixed-media from a weekend to an entire week, art retreats present fabulous vendor offers a unique way to refuel in a shows that are a feast of color, texture, The Art is...You logo welcoming and fun-filled environand original art. They also provide an was created by stay-atment. Retreats are held throughout opportunity for attendees to purchase home mom Kim Geiser, the country, from Connecticut to papers, kits, beads, collage sheets, who can be found at California, and the world (Italy, fibers, fabrics, unique vintage items, persimmonsgal54220. blogspot.com. southern France). During these and original flea market finds. getaways, you can try your hand at People don’t realize they have all sorts of mixed-media projects. inspiration and creativity wrapped up “Mixed-media” refers to the fact that inside of them. It can be hidden and a variety of materials and techniques somehow forgotten because of their are used that draw from different daily commitments to family and disciplines: paper arts, textile colwork. At a mixed-media art retreat, lage, painting, soldering, sculpting, new skills are discovered, techniques www.art-is-you.com • www.voodoonotes.blogspot.com metalwork, photography, millinery, are learned, and a space is created to www.wherewomencreate.com • www.earthangelsstudios.com draw out the creativity and art from art dolls, bookbinding, and more. within. Kindness, encouragement, “From the moment one arrives www.spellbinderspaperarts.com • www.amy-powers.com at the [retreat], you realize that you and smiles are given freely. New have entered a space where everyone friendships are forged. Awareness and speaks your creative language, where priorities change. Instead of jumping you are able to reconnect with your buddies or forge new friendships...and back onto life’s treadmill, and feeling bound by routine, people return home where your only requirement is to be yourself, have fun, and create,” says artfrom a retreat and incorporate what they have discovered into their lives. The ist Lesley Venable, a teacher at mixed-media retreat Art is...You. entire experience is empowering and can make you a happier person! Large-scale retreats are frequently held in a hotel and offer many workshop “I went by myself — a scaredy cat to be sure,” says Ann, who attended an options on a daily basis. Participants can attend one workshop or as many as Art is...You retreat. “I was blown away by the friendliness of everyone there. they like. Workshops are usually six hours long, so even if you can only parYou could just sit down at a table and enter a conversation with people you take in a day’s worth of them, you’ll be learning a ton and likely completing a didn’t know, yet somehow they felt like family. The energy in the workshop project. At Art is...You Mixed Media Retreats, mornings are a mix of powerful was crazy, alive, vibrant, and inspiring. You don’t have to be Picasso to enjoy messages and motivating moments. Luncheons are festive, and low-key, artyourself. It’s like a jump start for your heart, and out of that, your creativity based evenings round out each day. Smaller retreats like An Artful Journey, will flow.” Spellbound, and ViviMagoo offer a more focused selection of workshops in The personal rewards of engaging in an art retreat an intimate and unique space. will far outweigh the pile of dishes that may be waiting in the sink when you get home! Some workshops have extensive supply lists and others require very little.
Sallianne’s favorite links to help you explore the mixed-media world:
Sallianne McClelland is a wife and the mom of a 19-year-old daughter and a 7-year-old son. She is an event manager and a passionate philanthropist. Sallianne runs the leading Art is...You Mixed Media Art Retreats that occur every year across America and in Australia. She is driven to show people how to make a change in their own lives and in the lives of others by creating art and by living in generosity. Sallianne can be contacted at artis@art-is-you.com. Learn more at www.art-is-you.com.
42 I parentguide News I December 2013
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by Jesse Berberich
Rejuvenate and Protect
Reverse signs of aging and prevent further damage with the Rejuvenate and Protect kit from Jan Marini Skin Research. This two-step kit comes complete with a combination of Jan Marini’s most popular products: the C-ESTA Serum and the Antioxidant Face Protectant. Perfect for everyday use, the kit is available now at www.janmarini.com.
PROOF
porary diaper bags from House of Botori. Fashionably Comfortable Available in a wide variety of prints, the RejuvaHealth’s Sheer Dot Knee High compresaccessories deliver a unique aesthetic. Visit sion stockings flawlessly combine chic style and www.houseofbotori.com to see the items in healthy living. It’s perfect for those who want to this extensive collection. look runway ready while also enjoying the many medical advantages of compression tights. To pick up a pair, visit www.rejuvahealth.com.
Natural Protection
Hydrate your skin with the skin-soothing Protect + Hydrate lotion from Aveeno. Formulated with Aveeno’s innovative Active Naturals Colloidal Oatmeal, the Protect + Hydrate lotion provides 24hour hydration and keeps Dapper Diaper Bags your skin soft, smooth, Are you a fashionable mom? Are you bored and feeling healthy. Visit to tears with the status quo of diaper bags? www.aveeno.com for more Well then look no further than the contem- information.
Treat Your Skin
PROOF
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 From emerginC, the Co-
SK-Dec. ‘13
Family Owned & Operated Since 1979 Celebrating 35 Years!
Jesse Berberich is the editorial intern.
Come Grow With Us
Growing Tree Nursery School Licensed by NYS Office of Children & Family Services
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conut-Argan Body Oil is another exciting addition to the line’s innovative Scientific Organics collection. This luxurious body oil nourishes, softens, and soothes skin. Purchase the Coconut-Argan Body Oil at www.emerginc.com.
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December 2013 I parentguide News I 43
Update
by Jesse Berberich
tion that shields delicate ears from painful, Charmz are trendy charms that allow tweens loud noises. Log on to www.dotsontots.com to express their individuality! These fun and With their release of for more information. fashionable charms for pencils and pens come in the Angry Beavers: more than 80 styles. Collectable, tradeable, and the Complete Series easy to mix and match, Happy Charmz are sure DVD box set, Shout! Supernatural to be one of the hottest new items around. Factory invites you to relive the mirthful Reads Conquering Fears madness of this clas- Award-winning author Helping a young Eddie Jones spins three, sic Nickelodeon show child overcome suspenseful tales in that both you and your fears and phohis novels Dead Man’s kids can enjoy. Highly entertainbias is one of H a n d , S k u l l C re e k ing with humor that engages fans both the toughest Stakeout, and Dead Low young and old, the box set is available at challenges for Tide (Zonderkidz). The www.shoutfactory.com. novels are part of the Caden Chronicles, a any parent. The young adult series that follows teen hero Fobie Friends Dots on Tots Nick Caden as he investigates paranormal (Fobie Friends) Made from 100-percent organic cotton, phenomena. To pick up copies now, visit series of books by Leslie and Brian Miller addresses a numbaby and toddler head gear from Dots on www.amazon.com. ber of childhood fears while entertaining Tots protects the sensitive skin of a newreaders. Each book tackles a different phobia born. The company’s innovative hat designs and comes with a plush toy. Find the series at feature flaps that cover your child from the Get Creative cold weather, as well as special ear protec- Available at www.happycharmz.com, Happy www.fobiefriends.com.
Busy Beavers
PROOF
PROOF
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SK-Dec. ‘13
0 0 1 $ n i W
our Y d r a w o T ty! r a P y a d h Birt t x e N s ’ d l i Ch Calling All April 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 April. 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. 44 I parentguide News I December 2013
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Update Engaging Fun
Most parents are always are looking for ways encourage their kids to have fun while also inspiring them to learn. Ubooly is an interactive toy with endless, educational entertainment. The customized toy teaches on topics like toothbrushing and learning a language, and it is available now at Toys “R” Us.
given the lullaby treatment. Sample the avail- adult fashion over the past few years, which able tunes at www.rockabyebabymusic.com. has inspired My Sunshine Shoppe to develop a line of mini Lace Leggings for your budding fashionista. The Lace Leggings are a Shoes With Prospect perfect addition to any outfit and come in a From PROSPECS variety of colors. To order these perfect acSneakers, the cessories, visit www.mysunshineshoppe.com. Power Walk 503 sneakers are designed with Looks Cool, Catches flubber midsole Drool cushioning and Consider the Banda temperature regulation for maximum comfort. Their reflective Bib when searchmaterials ensure safe travel at night, and ing for a bib that enhanced shock absorption offers a better c o m b i n e s c o m walking and running experience. Power fort, function, and Walk 503 sneakers are available now at fashion for your baby. Designed in www.prospecs-usa.com. a unique style that mimics a bandana, the Banda Bib fits close and snug against a For Little Legs child’s neck while still being safe. Discover Leggings have become a powerful image in more at www.bazzlebaby.com.
PROOF
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Rockabye and Roll
Rockabye Baby takes the greatest artists from rock, pop, and rap, and turns their greatest hits into baby-friendly tunes ideal for sleep. More than 50 of the music industry’s biggest names, like Led Zeppelin, Weezer, and Jay-Z, have been
Jesse Berberich is the editorial intern.
“No Matter how many times you’ve experienced A Christmas Carol,
this version is one not to miss.” Stage Magazine
Limited Engagement now thru January 4!
DESIGN: FRAVER
Tickets Telecharge.com or (212) 239-6200 Theatre at St. Clement’s 423 West 46th Street, NYC
AChristmasCarolOnStage.com your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I 45
Health Feel Refreshed
Do hectic days at work and taking care of your family at night leave you feeling exhausted? Made with natural ingredients, the Kiss My Face line of shower and bath gels are the perfect antidote for your drained energy. They’ll leave you feeling fresh and renewed throughout the day. To feel the best you can, visit www.kissmyface.com.
Healthy Mouths, Happy Smiles
For a toothpaste that promotes dental health and hygiene with a fruity freshness, look to Honest KID’S Toothpaste. Made from a formula that contains no harsh chemicals, Honest KID’S Toothpaste helps polish and brighten teeth and fights dental plaque and build up. Visit www.honest. com for more information.
Ballet Body
Acacia, one of the leading names in award-winning yoga, fitness, and wellness products, is proud to expand its line with the Ballet Body series of muscle-focused workout DVDs. They focus on developing strength, building lean muscles, and sculpting a sleek frame through a variety of exercises inspired by ballet. Get started at www.acacialifestyle.com.
Simply Delicious
Simply7 is dedicated to creating a better, healthier snack experience based on unique, yet-recognizable ingredients. The chips adhere to core standards, which exclude cholesterol, artificial ingredients, and trans-fat. These exceptionally healthy and simply delicious chips are available at www.simply7snacks.com.
KINDness Counts
New from the KIND Nuts & Spices line of healthy snacks, the Maple Glazed Pecan & Sea Salt and Dark Chocolate Chili Almond bars contain only five grams of sugar and are a good source of fiber and protein. They are available now at Duane Reade locations.
by Jesse Berberich
Canine Encouragement
Kyjen Dog Games not only help keep puppy boredom at bay, but also greatly benefit your family pet. Designed with a dog’s IQ and behavior in mind, these puzzle games encourage brain development, which ultimately leads to less destructive behavior around the house. Available at www.kyjen.com, these games are to best way to ensure that man’s best friend is happy and healthy!
Superior Dental Hygiene Ultrasound technology has long been used by dentists to remove tartar, but Emmi-dent takes this technology and makes it available for consumers with an innovative toothbrush and NanoBubble toothpaste. The Emmi-dent toothbrush sends out ultrasonic waves that work in perfect unison with the toothpaste to destroy plaque, tartar, food particles, and bacteria. Snag the pair at www.emmi-dent.com.
Coping For Children
From author Marie Kyriakou, Mike the Little Bean (AuthorHouseUK) is a fanciful tale that entertains children while also teaching them how to cope with unfamiliar situations. Following the journey of a little bean who is whisked away from his family and then has to adapt to his new surroundings, this book is an excellent metaphor for the challenges kids face when growing up. Get a copy at www.amazon.com.
Potty Time Pal
Fraggal the Potty Time Pal (Dog Drool Media) is a revolutionary book that reinforces positivity during potty training. It decreases the time it takes for success by providing the perfect link between learning and play. Parents can engage their child’s attention and provide context for conversation with the Fraggal puppet. To purchase the book and puppet, visit www.thepottytimepal.com.
Helpful Herbs
When the hustle and bustle of everyday life gets you feeling run down, Herbal Zap! offers an all-natural boost to your immune system! The fourteen herbs within it are meant to be dissolved in water to promote healthy digestive, respiratory, and immune function. Discover details about Herbal Zap! at www.herbalzap.com. Jesse Berberich is the editorial intern. 46 I parentguide News I December 2013
parentguidenews.com
SEPTEMBER2013 2010 DECEMBER
Suffolk
children’s entertainer drops by the Tilles Center with her multi-talented band for some early holiday festivities.
Nassau
December 1: Trace Adkins - The Christmas Show, NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury, (800)745-3000, www.specialevents.livenation.com. The baritone wonder is back to kick off the holiday season with an amazing evening of live music. 8pm.
Proof
December 1-8 Manhattan
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December 3: Hannukah Extravaganza, The Jewish Heritage www.parentguidenews.com Center,•25212-213-8840 Country Drive, Plainview, (718)575-3100. Bring
December 1: The Festival of Trees, Cradle of Aviation Museum, Garden City, (516)378-2000, ext. 651. The three day event invites visitors of all ages to stop in and enjoy an array of designer-decorated trees, live entertainment, children’s activities, vendors, a gingerbread village, and more. Proceeds will be used to benefit United Cerebral Palsy of Nassau County.
Queens
Westchester SEPTEMBER 2010
December 1: The Laurie Berkner Band, The Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, 720 Northern Boulevard, Greenvale, (516)299-2752, www.tillescenter.org. The award-winning
your whole family to an incredible party featuring something for everyone, including a thrilling Hanukkah challenge, Menorah lighting, live sushi bar, raffles, and more. December 6: Centennial Celebration, Deck the Halls, Coe Hall at Planting Fields Arboretum, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay, (516)922-8678, www.plantingfields.org. Cocktail buffet, live music by Bob Merill’s Band, silent auction and live ice sculpture carving will be part of this special evening to celebrate the hundreth anniversary of Planting Fields Arboretum.
, what s happening
your needs, your neighborhood
SEPTEMBER 2010
December 2013 I parentguide News I 47
DECEMBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2010
Where Birthdays PROOF Come to Life!
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December 6 and 7: The Not Quite Christmas Cabaret, The Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, (516)571-7901, www.thesandspointpreserve.com. Sands Point rings in the holiday season with a unique celebration for one and all.
, P what s happen
December 7: Christmas with the Roosevelts, The Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, Oyster Bay, (516)922-4788. A unique celebration for one and all, the afternoon activities include holiday music, arts & crafts, hot cocoa, and a very special appearance by â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theodore Roosevelt,â&#x20AC;? who shares his reminiscences of how the Roosevelts celebrated Christmas at Sagamore Hill and in the White House.
www.parentguidenews.com â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840
December 7: First Night and Tree Lighting at Old Westbury Gardens, Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, (516)333-0048, ext. 310, www.oldwestburygardens.org. Be among the first to view Westbury House in its Holiday splendor, enchantingly illuminated for this special evening! The House will be filled with holiday music and will feature a performance by members of the Bethel Choir. 6:30-9pm.
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This season, let curious young minds shine ! classes â&#x20AC;˘ parties â&#x20AC;˘ winter break fun
specialty toy store for creative gift giving
music together
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art â&#x20AC;˘ science â&#x20AC;˘ theater Music Together Classes offered in â&#x20AC;˘ Garden City â&#x20AC;˘ Huntington Village â&#x20AC;˘ Manhasset â&#x20AC;˘ Oyster Bay â&#x20AC;˘ Plainview ÂŽ
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December 7 and 8: Old Westbury Gardens in Holiday Splenda!, Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, (516)333-0048, www.oldwestburygardens.org. Make a visit to Old Westbury Gardens part of your holiday tradition. With decorated period rooms, Santa, cookies and cider, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a must for the season! Runs again on December 14, 15, 21, and 22. December 8: A Snow White Christmas, The NYCB Theatre, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury. (516)334-0800, www.westburymusicfair.org. Some of your favorite Disney characters are brought to life on stage in one heartwarming show to help celebrate the holiday season. December 8: Annie Jr., The Broadhollow Theatre, Elmont, (516)775-4420 or visit www.broadhollow.org. A popular comic strip character is the lead in a delightful new musical as catchy tunes, colorful scenery and wonderful performances highlight the story of everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite little orphan girl. Presented again on December 21, 22, and 28. December 8: Annual Holiday Craft Fair, Our Lady of Grace Church, Shanahan Hall, 666 Albin Ave., West Babylon, (631)587-5185. The church presents its annual holiday fair that includes raffles, a Chinese auction, food and more. All proceeds benefit Our Lady of Grace Church. 8am-3pm. December 8: End Of The Year Christmas Dinner And Social, Domenicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pizzareria Ristorante, 3270a Hempstead Turnpike, Levittown, (516)825-0633. The Singles Association Of Long Island, Ages 25 Plus, presents a great evening out that includes
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December 2013 I parentguide News I 49
Birthday Parties
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December 8: Holiday Bazaar, Old Westbury Seventh Day Adventists Church, Parish Gymnasium, 211 Jericho Turnpike, Old Westbury, The church presents a fun-filled day of holiday shopping for the entire family in a friendly environment featuring great deals from quality vendors. 10am-6pm. December 8: Holiday Tales from the Hearth, The Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, (516)571-7901, www.thesandspointpreserve.com. Gather round at Sands Point for a few warm holiday tales.
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800 Northern Blvd.
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December 10: The Holiday Cream Tea and Tour, Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, (516)333-0048,
celebrate your birthday with the pride!
Our birthday parties are easy for parents, affordable, and best of all FUN for your kids!! build your own birthday pack including: -seat location -special experiences -food from the concession stand -goo -goodybag items and more! Don’t miss out on the excitement! Book your party today by calling 516-HOF-TIXX (463-8499) for more information. Mention “PARENTGUIDE” when you call and your son or daughter will be free! 50 I parentguide News I December 2013
parentguidenews.com
ext. 310. The afternoon event includes an informative tour of the magical Westbury House, where each room is designed and decorated with natural greenery. The day also includes delicious scones, cream, jam, and tea, Runs through December 19. December 11: Ladies Luncheon and Holiday Boutique, The Village of Sands Point Country Club, 1 Thayer Lane, Sands Point, (516) 944-7400, www.villageclub.org. Treat the special ladies in your family to a day filled with holiday bargains and delicious foods. 11:45am-3:45pm.
ATTENTION PTA PARENTS! Call us about fundraising opportunities. Let us help your PTA raise money this school year!
December 13: The Candlelight Evening & Craft Show, Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Old Bethpage, (516)572-8400. Bundle up, bring a flashlight, and enjoy some old-fashioned fun. Open to all ages, the event offers a 19th century candlelight evening featuring music in the church, hot cider at the Inn, and a tour of the 1863 historic site. Runs through December 22.
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16 HANDLES.COM www.parentguidenews.com â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840
December 14: Annual Christmas Dance, Msgr. Kirwin Hall, St. Aidan School, 525 Willis Ave., Williston Park, (516)825-0633. The St. Aidanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Spirituality for Singles Club invites family and friends, singles and married, to enjoy a night of food, music, DJs, and dancing. 8:30pm-12:30am. December 14 and 15: Holiday Weekend at Coe Hall, Plating Field Arboretum, Oyster Bay, (516)922-8678, www.plantingfield.org. Experience Coe Hall decked out in holiday style, see Santa, listen to the Madrigal Singers, visit the beautiful Greenhouse Display, take part in Gingerbread House making ses-
your needs, your neighborhood
JERICHO: 516.833.6855 PLAINVIEW: 516.433-8086 PORT WASHINGTON: 516.439.4715 $1 OFF A CUP OF
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FRO-YO ANY CAKE A PARTY
December 2013 I parentguide News I 51
PROOF
DECEMBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2010 419sions, Park Avenue South, New York, NY • 212-213-8840 • FaxTheatrical 212-447-7734 and watch Scrooge or 10016 Jack Frost by the Plaza Productions in the Great Hall. 11am-4pm. TO: FAX # December 15: The Max and Ruby Nutcracker Suite, The NYCB Theatre, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury. (516)334-0800, FROM: ISSUE DATE: www.westburymusicfair.org. The two adorable bunny siblings help to put a bright, colorful, energetic twist on the classic holiday favorite in this family audiences. Please call orlive faxshow yourforcomments and/or OK. SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL:
, what s happen
December 16 - 29
Disney characters and artwork ©Disney, Disney/Pixar characters ©Disney/Pixar.
ProoF
ProoF
December 20: The Trans Siberian Orchestra, Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale, (516)794-9300, 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840Amazing • Fax 212-447-7734 www.nassaucoliseum.com. sights and sounds take center stage when the Trans Siberian Orchestra makes its annual stop in Long by popular demand! The Lost Christto: FAxIsland #
From:
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Buy tickets at disneyonice.com, Retail Locations, Nassau Coliseum Box Office or call 1-800-745-3000
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52 I parentguide News I December 2013
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mas Eve is the theme of this year’s incredible original production that uses powerful music, laser light shows and a few surprises to tell a holiday story that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Sundays through December 29: For the Family Series, The Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr, Roslyn, (516)484-9338, www.nassaumuseum.org. Families are invited to enjoy a fun and educational afternoon that includes a tour of the museum’s exhibitions, followed by supervised art activities and creative themes.
All Month Long Ongoing through January 5: Broken? Fix It!, The Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, (516)2245800, www.licm.com. Be the first to explore this new hands-on exhibit where children and adults learn to diagnose problems, then roll up their sleeves and get inside the repair process. Open Tues. - Sun., 10am-5pm. Ongoing throughout January 31: Free Trial Class, The Language Worskshop for Children, 593 Plandome Road, Manhasset, (800)731-0830, www.languageworkshopforchildren.com. The Language Workshop for Children is offering a free trial class for kids and tots ages 6 months - 9 years. Classes are available in French, Spanish, Chinese or Italian. Ongoing through February 23: Peter Max Exhibition, Nassau County Museum of Art, One Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor, (516)484-9337, www.nassaumuseum.org. This exhibition takes the first in-depth look at the original drawings of Pop artist Peter Max, featuring portfolios of his mostly black-andwhite drawings on paper against many of the artist’s larger and more color-saturated works in a variety of media and covering a wide range of subjects. Sundays: The Next Step, Mid-Island Y JCC, 45 Manetto Hill Road, Plainview, (516)822-3535. Program offers teens with special needs in grades 7-12 the opportunity to develop basic leadership skills and perform community service. Meets two Sundays per month, 1-3:30pm. Call for a schedule. Sundays through Fridays: Support Groups, Friedberg JCC, 15 Neil Court, Oceanside, (516)634-4010, www.friedbergjcc. org. A variety of groups are offered at various times. Included are Caring for the Caregiver, Loss and Bereavement I and II, Unemployment, Divorce and Separation I and II, Women’s Issues, Single Parents, Couple Fair Fighting, Pre-Marriage Counseling, and more. Babysitting may be available. Call for specific information. Mondays: JASA AZORS Help Caregiver’s Support Group, Temple Emanu-El of Long Beach, 455 Neptune Boulevard, your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I 53
Where the guest of honor makes the cake & eats it too!
The Sweetest Memories Start in the Kitchen
in the
DECEMBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2010
Book Your Party TODAY for the 2014 Season! Real Hands-On, Creative Baking Birthday Parties & Classes New Spacious, Clean & Safe Exhibition Style Kitchen Built for Fun All-Inclusive Party Packages for Birthdays of All Ages, Family Parties & Celebrations of All Kinds Professionally Staffed & Organized for Maximum Participation & Enjoyment See Website Gourmet Cafe, Espresso Bar & Private Party Room For More Party Info Choice of Catered Menu Options for Adults, Too & Check Our
PROOF
Long Beach, (516)742-2050. This support group is for those caring for someone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. New participants should call before coming to the group. Free. Second Monday of the month. 12:30-2pm.
, P what s happen
PROOF
Mondays: Free Breast Cancer Support Group, Adelphi University School of Social Work, Garden City, (516)877-4314. This group welcomes anyone who has tested positive for Calendar Regularly Choose From Professionally Created Projects for Specials & breast cancer during testing. Sessions are free. Call 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, Newgenetic York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 Designed To Give A TRUE Baking Experience Holiday Classes & Feeling of Accomplishment! for required registration. 7-8:30pm. Starts February 25 and • Cookie Baking & Decorating runs through April. TO: FAX # TO: FAX # • Cupcake Baking & Decorating • Extreme Cupcake Designs • Cookie-Chocolate Candy House Creation ISSUE • Brownie Baking • Cake Decorating • Apple Pie From Scratch & more!
Mondays and Wednesdays: Alzheimer’s Opportunity for ISSUETemple DATE: Emanu-El of Long Respite & Socialization Program, Beach, 455 Neptune Boulevard, Long Beach, (516)432-0570. A program for adults, ages 60 and older who have been diagPlease call or fax your comments and/or Please callAlzheimer’s or fax yourdisease comments and/ordementia. OK. This 63 Old Country Rd. • Hicksville, NY • OK. 516-396-2193 nosed with or a related In Delco Shp. Ctr.-easily accessible program provides meaningful and purposeful recreational ac(only 1½ mi. S. of L.I.E. exit 41S) SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: and increased socialization among peers. Recreational SIGNATURE tivities OF APPROVAL: activities include cooking, exercise, relaxation, dance, music, Scan Our Code for discussion groups and more. A nutritious kosher lunch and Droid Users-Download App (Celebrations in the Info & Updates Kitchen) @ Playstore for Easy-Quick Reference snacks are provided. Transportation may be arranged to the
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(516) 735-2007
65 Merrick Road, Amityville • 631-608-4710
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Tues.-Sat. 11am-6pm • Sunday 10am-2pm
www.coolcraftslongisland.com 54 I parentguide News I December 2013
COME SEE THE PARTY SPACE OR SHOP THE BOUTIQUE!
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JCC. An interview is required. 10am-2pm.
Proof
Mondays to Fridays: Breast Cancer Support Groups, Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program, most groups held at the Adelphi Breast Cancer Program, School of Social Work, Adelphi University in Garden City, offices: (516)877-4314, hotline: (800)877-8077, www. adelphi.edu/nysbreastcancer. Individual, group and telephone counseling are available, along with a 24/7 hotline staffed by trained volunteers who have had breast cancer. Groups offered include: Women with Breast Cancer, Young Women with Breast Cancer, Women with Metastatic Breast Cancer, Telephone Support for Women with Breast Cancer, and more. Pre-registration required. Call for start dates and to find out about other groups, including those for couples, teens, family members, and men with breast cancer.
Proof
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Tuesdays: Breast Cancer Phone Support, (516)877-4314. The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program offers a new telephone support group for women with breast cancer. If you or someone you know cannot physically attend a breast cancer support group for any reason, this is a wonderful alternative for a forum. The weekly group allows women to speak with breast cancer survivors and patients, along with a social work facilitator, on conference calls. Sessions run 10:30am-noon. Call to register or obtain details. Tuesdays: Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders Par-
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your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I 55
DECEMBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2010 ent Support Group, Grace Lutheran Church & School, 400 Hempstead Avenue, Malverne, (516)887-3371. Meets the first Tuesday of every month at 7pm.
, what s happen
Wednesdays: Mothersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Group, The Wednesday Mothersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club of Floral Park, United Methodist Church, 35 Verbena Ave., Floral Park, (516)270-3573, (516)775-2576, wmcmembership@hotmail.com. A non-denominational social and support group for expectant mothers and mothers of children in kindergarten or younger. Activities include monthly Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Night Out, social events, educational programs, new mom meals, community outreach and playgroup sessions. Newsletter available.
www.parentguidenews.com â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-884
Thursdays: Grandparent Advocates Supporting Autistic Kids, North Shore Child and Family Guidance Center, 480 Old Westbury Road, Roslyn Heights, (516)626-1971, www.northshorechildguidance.org. This support and advocacy group is for concerned grandparents of autistic children. All adult family members are welcome. Meetings take place the last Thursday of every month (except December), 11:30am-1pm.
THE RHYTHM OF NEW YORK
Second Avenue at 8th Street
(800) 982-2787
www.stomponline.com Connect with us: 56 I parentguide News I December 2013
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Thursdays: Grandparent Advocates Supporting Autistic Kids (GASAK), Sid Jacobson JCC, 300 Forest Drive, East Hills, (516)484-1545. Grandparents of children with autism meet to support each other, share information and advocate for their families. Meets the third Thursday of the month. Call for additional meeting dates. 1-2:30pm. Thursdays: Kindred Spirits Support Group, Winthrop-University Hospital, 259 First St., Mineola, (516)663-2350, www.winthrop.org. Support group for children of all ages with diabetes and their families. Meets monthly. Call for further details.
ProoF
Fridays: Alzheimer’s Opportunity for Respite & Socialization Program, Friedberg JCC, 15 Neil Court, Oceanside, (516)4320570. A program for adults, ages 60 and older who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. This program provides meaningful and purposeful recreational activities and increased socialization among peers. Recreational activities include cooking, exercise, relaxation, dance, music, discussion groups and more. A nutritious kosher lunch and snacks are provided. Transportation may be arranged to the JCC. An interview is required. 10am-2pm.
SEPTEMBER 2010
Saturdays: Play Dates, All About Kids, 255 Executive Drive, LL 108, Plainview, (516)576-2040, www.allaboutkidsny.com. Sensory Social Motor Play Dates for children ages 3-5.
Fridays: Parent Discussion Group, Parenting Resource Network, Friedberg JCC, 15 Neil Court, Oceanside, (516)6344192, www.parentingresourcenetwork.org. This free discus419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 sion group aids in processing the many complicated issues faced by parents. Topics range from anger diffusion and to: FAx # self-esteem to time out and discipline. Held twice a month. Childcare is available for a small fee with advance reservaShare your event details tion. Call to reserve a spot. 10am. by the 1st of the iSSue preceding From: DAte: month
, what s happening? SEPTEM
Fridays: Moms’ Group, The Mothers’ Center of Southwest Nassau, 100 Main St., East Rockaway, (516)599-7788, Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. www.swnassauny.motherscenter.org. A discussion group Submit family activities and events FREE of charge at for new Mothers’ Center members where moms can SigNAture meet oFwww.parentguidenews.com/Catalog/SubmitACalendarItem APProvAl: and share the joys and challenges of motherhood. Childcare or e-mail Donald McDermott: is provided during group time. Call to learn more about the Donald@parentguidenews.com center and other groups and social events available.
your needs, your neighborhood
December 2013 I parentguide News I 57
In
Season
Top of the Season To You
by Jesse Berberich
Crafts and games to keep your clan warm all month long. Reindeer Games
For an easy-to-make ornament that the whole family can enjoy creating, consider the Rudolph Ornament Craft courtesy of www.kaboose.com. What You’ll Need: •½ sheet of light brown craft foam •2 glitter gold chenille sticks •2 medium wiggle eyes •1 red glitter pom pom •6-8 inches of ribbon •White craft glue or hot glue gun •Scissors What To Do: Cut two, tear-drop shapes from the craft foam for the head. To make the ears, cut a small oval, then cut it in half lengthwise. To make it easier for younger children, either draw the shapes onto the craft foam for them, or cut out the shapes yourself ahead of time. Bend each chenille stick in half, then bend and twist them again to form two antlers. Glue the ears toward the top of the round end of one of the tear drop shapes. Glue antlers to the top of the same oval shape. For the hanger, fold ribbon in half and glue the open ends together in between the two antlers. Glue the second oval shape to the back of the first oval to create the back of the reindeer’s head. This sandwiches the ears, antlers, and hanger, giving the ornament a finished look. Glue on wiggle eyes. Glue on red pom pom for nose. Allow to dry completely.
Healthy and Delicious
December 19 is Oatmeal Muffin Day! Enjoy the day with this recipe, courtesy of www.allrecipes.com. These treats taste good and are healthy for you! Ingredients: •2 eggs •2/3 c. brown sugar •½ c. vegetable oil •½ c. milk •1 c. all-purpose flour •¾ c. instant oatmeal •1 tsp. baking powder •½ tsp. baking soda •A pinch salt Directions: Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease 12 muffin cups. Whisk together eggs, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and milk in a bowl until smooth. Form the batter by stirring flour, oatmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into wet ingredients. Fill the prepared muffin cups with batter. Bake until tops are golden brown and an inserted toothpick comes out clean. This should take about 20 minutes.
Customized Cards
Spark up a little fun this holiday season with personalized products from Spark and Spark. With a wide assortment of themes available and a philosophy of “embracing life’s moments,” Spark and Spark’s impressive cards make those memorable holiday moments that much more magnificent! Visit Spark and Spark at www.sparkandspark.com to see all the company’s wonderful items.
Best Brownies
Celebrate National Brownie Day on December 8 by whipping up a batch of chocolate treats with this recipe from www.allrecipes.com. Ingredients for the brownies: •½ c. butter •1 c. white sugar •2 eggs •1 tsp. vanilla extract •1/3 c. unsweetened cocoa powder •½ c. all-purpose flour •¼
58 I parentguide News I December 2013
tsp. salt • ¼ tsp. baking powder Ingredients for the frosting: •3 Tbs. butter, softened •3 Tbs. unsweetened cocoa powder •1 Tbs. honey •1 tsp.vanilla extract •1 c. confectioners’ sugar. Directions: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8-inch-square pan. In a large saucepan, melt ½ c. butter. Remove from heat, and stir in sugar, eggs, and 1 tsp. vanilla extract. Beat in 1/3 c. cocoa, ½ c. flour, salt, and baking powder. Spread batter into prepared pan. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Do not overcook. Make the frosting by combining 3 Tbs. butter, 3 Tbs. cocoa, 1 Tbs. honey, 1 tsp. vanilla, and 1 c. confectioners’ sugar. Frost brownies while they are still warm for a yummy treat.
Celebration Time
Whether your family will be enjoying the festivities in public or from the comfort of home, there’s no better way to ring in the new year and celebrate the one you’re leaving behind than with these homemade, noisemaker shakers from www.spoonful.com. What You’ll Need: •Ribbon spool •Pencil •Masking tape •Dried peas or beans •Acrylic paint •Colorful stickers. Directions: For each one, first see if the holes in the sides of your ribbon spool are covered by the ribbon’s labels. If so, use a pencil to poke through the label over one of the holes; if not, cover one hole with masking tape. Next, pour a handful of dried peas or beans into the spool through the open hole; then seal the hole with tape. Finally, coat the shaker with acrylic paint, let it dry, and decorate it with colorful stickers.
Serene Winter Scene
Nothing will look better as the centerpiece for your holiday decorations than this homemade Winter Village Scene craft courtesy of www.activityvillage. co.uk. What You’ll Need: •Small cardboard boxes •Brown paint •Black card •Silver card •Cotton wool •Silver glitter •Twigs •Sticky tack •Large sheet of card for the base •White glue Directions: Paint your cardboard boxes brown, and leave them to dry. Cut out some rectangles of black card the length of each box, fold them in half and stick to the top of the boxes to form roofs. Cut out some windows and doors from black card and glue these to your buildings. Put your buildings on your large sheet of card. Add to it a frozen pond cut from silver card, some paths cut from black card, and some twigs stuck upright in sticky tack as trees. When you are happy with the way it looks, glue everything down. Cover the rest of the card with glue and adhere to the cotton wool snow. Add dribbles of glue along the roofs and trees and cover with glitter to create frost. Jesse Berberich is the editorial intern.
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