December2013q by PARENTGUIDE News

DECEMBER 2013

Queens

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 Q

IN OUR

GIFT GUIDE

GIVEAWAY!

contents contents

Reach Thousands Contests of Your Best Prospects Columns for About $2 Per Day

table of

PROOF

December 2013 Volume 30 • Number 12

Program Coverage

Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 17

P. 14 Hearing, “I Quit?”...................... 14

Family Favorite Photo Contest................................... 43

Six ways to keep your kids in their programs.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Program Directory......................... 16

Leading programs and resources near you.

Special Needs

Don’t Miss........................................................................ 6 This month’s entertainment and activities.

P. 22

Update............................................................................ 34 Essential products and information for your brood.

Special Needs and Health & Fitness Directory.......... 17

In Season........................................................................ 42

Now, www.parentguidenews.com Crafts and games to keep your clan warm all month long.makes

Experts and services catering to family wellness and special needs.

it easy and affordable to place ADVERTISING DIRECTLY ONLINE.

Bonus

It’s Autism..................................... 22 Life after the diagnosis.

Travel Directory.............................................................. 26 Attractions and accommodations for great getaways.

Just click on the “advertising information” link What’s 36 at theHappening........................................................ top of the www.parentguidenews.com A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, performances, and events. home page and follow the simple 2b steps to Cover takeCredit: yourDare business to a Publishernew Steve place. Elgort totally

Health & Fitness

Mouth Myths.................................. 30 P. 30 The truth about children’s dental health.

Features

Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina

P. 24

Managing Editor Donald McDermott Please note that you can always Associate Editor Samantha Chan receive personal assistance by Editorial Intern Jesse Berberich calling the Advertising Direct Helpline Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli at (212) 213-8840, ext. 224 Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski or e-mailing us at Accounting Teresa Pinargote advertisingdirect@parentguidenews.com. Contributing Writers Andy Areffi, Melissa Areffi, Rich Brugger,

Express Yourself............................ 10 Teaching communication skills to kids.

Before Birth........................................ 12

PROOF

Amusing anecdotes about your hospital stay.

Traffic, TSA, and Tantrums, Oh My!.. 24 Eight tips for surviving holiday travel with your kids.

Katie Bugbee, Princess Ivana Pignatelli Aragona Cortes, Anita Duhl Glicken, Debra Manchester MacMannis, Don MacMannis, Sallianne McClelland

Top Toys............................................. 28 Kids’ gifts for your lists.

Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti

P. 32

Advertising Sales Representatives Karin Mikelis, Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, Jennifer Serpi, Rena Spangler, Felicia Stafford, Erica Tiso

Mixed-Media Mamas............... 32 Give yourself permission to play.

PGTV Producer Beth Elgort

Feeling Good, Looking Good.. 33

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.

December 2013 I parentguide News I

contents contents

table of

December 2013 Volume 30 • Number 12

Contests

Program Coverage

Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 17

P. 14 Hearing, “I Quit?”...................... 14

Family Favorite Photo Contest................................... 43

Six ways to keep your kids in their programs.

Columns

Program Directory......................... 16

Leading programs and resources near you.

Don’t Miss........................................................................ 6 This month’s entertainment and activities.

Special Needs

P. 22

Update............................................................................ 34 Essential products and information for your brood.

Special Needs and Health & Fitness Directory.......... 17

In Season........................................................................ 42 Crafts and games to keep your clan warm all month long.

Experts and services catering to family wellness and special needs.

Bonus

It’s Autism..................................... 22 Life after the diagnosis.

Travel Directory.............................................................. 26 Attractions and accommodations for great getaways.

Health & Fitness

What’s Happening........................................................ 36

A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, performances, and events. Cover Credit: Dare 2b

Mouth Myths.................................. 30

P. 30 The truth about children’s dental health.

Features

Publisher Steve Elgort Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina

P. 24

Managing Editor Donald McDermott

Express Yourself............................ 10

Associate Editor Samantha Chan

Teaching communication skills to kids.

Editorial Intern Jesse Berberich

Before Birth........................................ 12

Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli

Traffic, TSA, and Tantrums, Oh My!.. 24

Accounting Teresa Pinargote

Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski

Amusing anecdotes about your hospital stay.

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

Eight tips for surviving holiday travel with your kids.

Top Toys............................................. 28 Kids’ gifts for your lists.

Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti

P. 32

Advertising Sales Representatives Karin Mikelis, Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, Jennifer Serpi, Rena Spangler, Felicia Stafford, Erica Tiso

Mixed-Media Mamas............... 32 Give yourself permission to play.

PGTV Producer Beth Elgort

Feeling Good, Looking Good.. 33

Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous.

I parentguide News I December 2013

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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!

Image Credit: Maggie Susse-O’Connor

SK-December 2013

your needs, your neighborhood

December 2013 I parentguide News I

Don’t

MiSS

Feeling Super

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.

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.

December

by Donald McDermott

The Main Event

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.

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. I parentguide News I December 2013

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(Continued on Pg. 21) your needs, your neighborhood

December 2013 I parentguide News I

December

Delightful Decorations

by Samantha Chan

Page to Stage

The Pomonok Library in Flushing offers the chance Oliver! is at The Little Secret Theatre for a limited, holiday enfor children to celebrate with crafts all year long. On gagement December 6 through 22. The curtain goes up at 7:30pm December 6 at 4:30pm, head to the 158-21 Jewel each Thursday through Sunday during that period. Audiences of all Ave. location with your child or teen to gear up for ages are invited to recall the classic Charles Dickens tale and witChristmas with an ornament craft. For ness it with a contemporary, steampunkmore information on this and other library infused twist. Tickets are available at Light the Night events, dial (718)591-4343 or log onto www.secrettheatre.com. The theater is locatGet into the spirit of the season at the www.queenslibrary.org. ed at 44-02 23rd St. in Long Island City. Queens Botanical Garden with a Winter

Proof

In the Spirit

During this holiday season, decorations abound. The Queens County Farm Museum offers wreath-making workshops on December 7 at 10am, noon, and 2pm. The evergreen wreathes made in these programs are great to keep or give to family and friends. All materials are provided, but guests are asked to bring garden shears to the museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway in Glen Oaks. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required, and they can be done at www.queensfarm.org.

Solstice Celebration and Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 8 beginning at 12:30pm. Winter garden tours, botanical crafts, musical performances, and a Holiday Marketplace entertain and delight families and guests all ages until 5pm. The garden flips the switch on its Christmas tree at 4:30pm during the tree lighting ceremony. Don’t forget your camera, as there are photo opportunities with Santa! Questions? Dial (718)886-3800. The Queens Botanical Garden is located at 43-50 Main St. in Flushing.

Proof

Holiday Twist

December 9 brings about the chance for fami-

lies to enjoy a holiday twist on a classic with www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

the performance of Little Red Riding Hood’s Christmas in the Kaleidoscope Children’s Theatre at the Kupferberg Center for the Performing Arts. Located at 65-30 Kissena Boulevard in Flushing, the center stages a musical adaptation of the family-favorite fairy tale that is overflowing with audience involvement and participation. The show is appropriate for kids ages 4-9. Get your tickets through the online box office at www.kupferbergcenter.org.

Q MB 12/13

I parentguide News I December 2013

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The Season to Give

December

With Hanukkah recently passed and Christmas and Kwanzaa coming up, it’s easy to get wrapped up in gift giving with friends and family. The Hillcrest Library is asking local residents to take a moment and help provide food for those in need during the holidays. Bring unexpired cans and boxes of nonperishable food to the Canned Goods Drive on December 12, 2-6pm. The library is located at 187-05 Union Turnpike.

Meet St. Nick

The Long Island Aquarium offers the annual Breakfast with Santa this month. With seatings at 10am, noon, and 2pm, the delicious, buffet breakfast is held in the waterfront Sea Star Ballroom. Guests have the opportunity to make a take-home, holiday keepsake. The aquarium is located at 431 E. Main St. in Riverhead. Reservations are required and can be made via telephone; simply dial (631)208-9200, ext. H2O (426).

Proof Sing Along

ProoF

It’s time again for Karaoke At The Recreating and Remaking Movies with Aladdin at Queens419 ParkThe Avenue South, New York,ofNY 10016 •challeng212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 New York Hall Science borough Performing Arts Center on es guests to attend workshops, demos, December 14, 7:30pm. This unique, to: FAx #twist, and art installations to light, bend, family experience invites guests of all and sculpt a new version of the holiday ages to sing along and explore a whole From: iSSue season. Between December 27 andDAte: 30, new world with Aladdin, Jasmine, ReMake the Holidays takes place at 47and their friends. A trivia contest with 01 111th St. in Corona. While the daily prizes occurs prior to the movie, and the Please call fax your comments oK. programs areorunique, guests are invitedand/or most enthusiastic singer receives a cash throughtout the event to enjoy ice sculptprize! Get your lungs ready to belt out SigNAture oFing APProvAl: with Bill Bywater and a screening of tunes at the 222-05 56th Ave. location Bag It The Movie. Details are available in Bayside. Information can be found at www.nysci.org. at www.visitqpac.org.

Light Up the Season

To celebrate the its 36th Season, the Big

www.parentguidenews.com Apple Circus brings • all 212-213-8840 of the vivacity and velocity of New York City to it’s newest show: Luminocity. The one-ring circus provides the high energy and excitement of a big circus in an intimate performance where no audience member is more than 50 feet from the ringside. Get your tickets now for Luminocity at Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center at www.bigapplecircus.org or by calling (888)541-3750. The show runs through January 12, 2014.

Samantha Chan is the associate editor.

Q MB 12/13

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For more information (516) 393-4207 your needs, your neighborhood

December 2013 I parentguide News I

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 interac10 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 the other.

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 you’re thinking that you and your partner may want to try a few couple’s tune-ups with The Repair Kit, don’t be embarrassed! That’s often the case, and you can use the exact same model. We’ve taught it to thousands of couples, too.

We can’t overemphasize the importance of healthy communication. In happy, loving families, everyone you teased me about my shirt today,” or “I don’t like it when…” 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 3. A wish or a want that would help fix the upsetting issue. Exbecoming hurtful to each other. As hard as connecting can be in the ample: “I want you to be nice to me and not tease me.” hurried pace of our day-to-day lives, quality communication is more important 419 Park Avenue South,than 13thever. Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 419 Park Avenue South, New York, 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax1212-447-7734 After sharing one way, theNYflow reverses so that person becomes the listener and person 2 becomes the speaker. Participants should also to: FAx # pause to take deep breaths when reversing Don and Debra MacMannis are a team both at home and at the TO: FAX # roles. Conscious breathing is one of the fastest and most effective de-stressors available. office. Married for more than 30 years, the couple have simultaneFrom: iSSue DAte: ously served as directors of the Family Therapy Institute of Santa FROM: ISSUE DATE: It also helps if parents introduce kids ages 5 and older to The Repair Barbara, a nonprofit organization. In 2009, Don won the title Kit as part of a family meeting when things are going well. Explain, ofPlease “Best Family a poll taken and/or by SBParent.com. call orTherapist” fax yourincomments oK. In “We know call that broken as a flat tire need repair. 2010, Debra was honored with an Award for Service to the ComPlease or faxthings yoursuch comments and/or OK.We have also learned that when people aren’t acting in caring ways toward munity by local therapists and the Mayor of Santa Barbara. AdSigNAture oF APProvAl: each other, something needs to be fixed.” The adults can first model ditional tips and tools can be found at www.howsyourfamily.com. SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: The Repair Kit, and then have each family member practice by preDon’s award-winning songs and activities related to communicatending to be upset with one another about something. tion skills may be found at www.kidseps.com.

2. Something that upsets him. Examples: “It made me mad when

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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. 12 I parentguide News I December 2013

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14 I parentguide News I December 2013

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December 2013 I parentguide News I 15

Discover Some of the Areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Finest Programs & Resources!

Long Island University Center for Gifted Youth 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville, NY 11548 (516)299-2160 gifted@cwpost.liu.edu www.liu.edu/giftedyouth Busy Bee Place Tutoring Center The Long Island University Center for Gifted Youth is committed 12-48C Clintonville St., Lower Level, Whitestone, NY 11357 to the development of the intellectual potential of each child. Each (917)563-1046 fall and spring, Saturday classes are offered for gifted students in www.busybeeplace.com 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax 212-447-7734 419 Park Avenuek-6 South, York, NY 10016 â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840 â&#x20AC;˘ Faxrequirements. 212-447-7734 grades whoNew pass highly selective admissions Those looking for academic assistance for their children CGY also offers a four week campus-based non-residential should check out Busy Bee Place Tutoring Center. The staff summer program for students entering to: FAx # FAx # grades 2-8, emphasizing provides students with an individual learning plan. to: They hands-on academic activities. The Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purpose is to provide understand every student learns differently and tailor a prostudents with the opportunity to relate to each other intellectuFrom: iSSue DAte: From:a iSSue DAte: gram that helps each student reach their goals and obtain ally and socially. Classes emphasize problem solving, critical successful and bright future. The fully functioning learning thinking and independence in learning. Courses offered include center specializes in more than just math and English tutorPlease call or fax your comments and/or oK. science, math, computers, law, social sciences, and writing. The Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. ing. Services also include assistance in auditory processcombination of extraordinary teachers recruited from leading ing, homework help, inculcation of effective study skills, local schools and university facilities, including scientific laboSigNAture homework oF APProvAl:groups, test prep, PSAT and SAT prep classes, SigNAture oF APProvAl: ratories and computer rooms, gives the program unique strength Regents help, and aid for essays and projects. An in-house in producing positive benefits for students. Workshops for parents speech therapist is available, too. Call for an appointment of enrolled children are an integral part of the program. These at (917)563-1046.

Programs

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y Bee Place s u B rning Cent Lea %L;>?M ) er !-++-, !-0#

make beautiful music together.

Exciting family classesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;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.

(800) 728-2692 . musictogether.com Classes in Long Island and Queens. MusicTogetherLI-Queens.com

16 I parentguide News I December 2013

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PROGRAM DIRECTORY

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.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

PROOF

Music Together of Long Island and Queens 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-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!

r u o Y d r a w To t Child’s Nex y! t r a P y a d Birth 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.

PROOF

Thinkertots 1818 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park, NY 11040 222-14 Union Turnpike, Bayside, NY 11364 (516)488-3414 / (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-and-a-quarter-hour, pre-k, drop-off for ages 3-5 years. Your child is introduced to education through a variety of exciting and age-specific 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.

0 0 1 $ n i W

Special Needs J.M. Ladge Speech & Hearing Center C.W. Post Campus/Long Island University Northern Boulevard, Brookville, NY 11548 (516)299-2437 joyce.rubenstein@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 your needs, your neighborhood

Save BIG at www.parentguidenews.com Turn your child’s special day into something spectacular.

December 2013 I parentguide News I 17

PROGRAM DIRECTORY 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 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.

PROOF

gery at 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 is board certified and provides the best dental care to pediatric, adolescent and special needs patients. Dr. Mindy’s mission is to make the dental experience fun and anxiety-free for the whole family. She believes in educating parents and children in cavity 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, kidfriendly 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.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Health & Fitness

Proof

ProoF

Dr. Mindy Homer Pediatric Dentistry Enrichment & Tutoring Services 800 Community Drive, Suite 200, Manhasset, NY 11030 (516)869-9500 419 Park Avenue South,Speech 13th Floor, York, NY 10016 www.doctor-mindy.com Bayside & New Language PALS• 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 Did you know that approximately 40 percent of children have 58-47 Francis Lewis Boulevard, Suite 15, Bayside, NY 11364 FAx # cavities by the time they reach kindergarten, and it is nowto: rec(347)408-4247 ommended that children see a dentist no later their first birthFax: (347)408-4398 day? Dr. Mindy knows that dental visits in early childhoodFrom: can www.palsspeech.com iSSue DAte: prevent cavities. Dr. Mindy earned her Doctorate of Dental SurBayside Speech & Language PALS, PLLC (PALS Speech) is

NYC Gifted and Talented 10-day Crash Course

Please call or fax your comments and/or oK.

Groups are forming now for the next session!

• Central location near Bayside, SigNAture oF APProvAl: Fresh Meadows and Flushing

If your child is registered to take the 2014 NYC G&T admissions exam, call and inquire about our 10-day crash course. This course is strategically designed to provide the most comprehensive preparation, confidence, and advantage on test day.

December 7, 14, 21, 23, 26-28, 30-31, January 4 Time: 12:00pm-1:30pm

718.423.5757 194-11A Northern Blvd. Flushing, NY 11358

18 I parentguide News I December 2013

• Offering group and individual therapies

cing Introdu e and &m mommy ol music prescho / certiﬁed w classes -language speech t! therapis

• PROMPT, Phono-graphix and SOS trained therapists

• Therapy can be provided in our sensory gym • Accepting both NYCDOE CPSE contracts and CSE RSA • Bilingual Korean therapist • Sessions available in ofﬁce, homecare or at your child’s school or daycare

Specializing in oral and written language, articulation, phonological processing and oral motor skills, feeding therapy, ﬂuency, auditory processing, reading and spelling and pragmatic language. N

58-47 Francis Lewis Blvd., LOCAETWION Suite 15, Bayside, NY 11364

(347) 408-4247 • Fax: (347) 408-4398

www.palsspeech.com

New LOW COST FEEDING, Are You LANGUAGE & PLAY Worried About GROUPS Your Child’s Speech, Language or Hearing?

Complete Speech, Language and Hearing Evaluation and Therapeutic Center for Children & Adults

Ladge Speech & Hearing Center at C.W. Post

• Reasonable Rates • Infant, Toddlers and School Age Children • Day & Evening Hours • Children’s Eating and Chatting Groups • Individual & Group Therapy

For more information call: Dr. Joyce Rubenstein, Director

516-299-2437

email: joyce.rubenstein@liu.edu L.I.U. • C.W. Post • Brookville

parentguidenews.com

PROGRAM DIRECTORY a full-service, speech-language practice exclusively devoted to improving the lives of children. It specializes in the language, speech and feeding skills of preschool and school-aged children, as well as working with families to understand their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specific speech and language needs. Through high-quality, customized treatment, PALS endeavors to provide clients with the confidence and skills they need to excel in an academic or social setting. PALS Speech provides evaluations and therapies that cover oral and written language, articulation, phonological processing and oral motor skills, feeding issues, fluency, auditory processing, reading and spelling, and pragmatic language. PROMPT, Phono-graphix and SOS-trained therapists are available to work with children both individually and in groups. PALS accepts New York City Department of Education preschool contracts and RSA letters for school-aged children. PALS Speech is proud to join forces with Balanced Pediatrics to offer comprehensive pediatric therapy services, such as speech, occupational and physical therapy in a sensory gym. Bilingual Korean evaluations and therapy are now available. Therapy may be provided at offsite locations upon request. A therapist will determine a schedule and therapy plan that is right for you.

parentguidenews.com

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Gonna Be There For A While!

your needs, your neighborhood

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 217A Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights (516)484-MATH (6284) www.mathnasium.com/roslyn 110 Jackson Ave., Syosset (516)944-MATH (6284) www.mathnasium.com/syosset-jericho Mathnasium Learning Centers, with more than 300 locations in the United States, as well as in 16 countries, offer math-only educational programs. In a relaxed, homework-free environment, Mathnasium enables kids to focus on sharpening their math skills. Mathnasium students develop and maintain the mathematics knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the information age. Mathnasium is a learning center where kids go to catch up, keep up, or get ahead in math. Programs run year round for kids of all ages.

December 2013 I parentguide News I 19

PROGRAM DIRECTORY Parent/Child Resources

A SociAl leArning ProgrAm deSigned for children who find it hArd to: • 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 theSe difficultieS Are often ASSociAted with: • 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 20 I parentguide News I December 2013

Kent Prep 194-11a Northern Boulevard, Bayside, NY 11358 (718)423-5757 info@kentprep.com www.kentprep.com Since 1989, Kent Prep has satisfied the demands of the most competitive student body in the diverse city of Queens. It offers a comprehensive curriculum led by specialized instructors that are at the top of their field whilst providing comprehensive test preparation and professional counseling services for both students and parents to foster personalized academic careers. Through the passionate pursuit of their ambitions, Kent’s students stand out among other achievers in the most selective pools and applicants. Visit the website for additional information. Steps to Socialization (s2s) 13 South Bayles Ave., Port Washington, NY 1050 (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 Socialization’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. Vincent Smith School 322 Port Washington Boulevard, Port Washington, NY 11050 (516)365-4900 www.vincentsmithschool.org The Vincent Smith School is well-known for its individualized program for reluctant learners and learning disabled students in grades 4-12. VSS has a history of excellence dating back to 1924. Located on four and a half acres in suburban Port Washington, Vincent Smith School is a private day school, serving students in Nassau, Suffolk, and Queens Counties in New York. It offers students differentiated instruction in small supportive classes. Students experience academic success, emotional growth and social acceptance. More than 83 percent of graduates go on to college. Vincent Smith School is chartered by the New York State Board of Regents as an independent, nonprofit institution and is accredited by the New York State Association of Independent Schools. It takes pride in being a place where it’s okay to learn differently. The Vincent Smith School is open to all without regard to race, creed, or national origin. parentguidenews.com

Do you love your children, love the web, love to schmooze and love living in Queens? If you answered yes to these questions, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to share a BIG secret with you...

(Continued on Pg. 35) your needs, your neighborhood

December 2013 I parentguide News I 21

“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:

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 22 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Over 5 Articles on

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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. 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.

parentguidenews.com

Give up services when you’re done. There are 50,000 kids diagnosed with autism every year. Resources are more limited now than ever. There is literally another kid in line behind yours waiting for help. And we know how difficult it is to give up something for which you fought so hard, but the point of the therapy is to graduate when the time comes.

So much more...

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.

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, or they will own you. And never, never confuse disability with inability. 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.

Over 5 Articles on

Over40 6 Articles on Over

Stuttering Potty Autism Training parentguidenews.com

parentguidenews.com parentguidenews.com

So much more...

So much more... So much more...

your needs, your neighborhood

December 2013 I parentguide News I 23

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

24 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.

PROOF

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.

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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. 26 I parentguide News I December 2013

parentguidenews.com

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A FAMILY AGAIN.

Spending quality time together is a true luxury. Which is why Beaches Resorts was created to be the ultimate get together getaway, where everything is always included and unlimited. On protected whitesand beaches, exciting watersports include unlimited scuba diving* and waterskiing. Awesome waterparks feature exhilarating body slides, lazy rivers, and even a surf simulator.^ And only at Beaches will you find such world-renowned exclusives as The Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street and Xbox Play Lounges. Dine at up to 19 specialty restaurants per resort, and order unlimited premium liquors on the house including exclusive Beringer Wines. Retreat to the most luxurious accommodations including top-tier, family-sized suites with personal butler service. Beaches is the vacation you’ll talk about the rest of your lives—where you can BE a family again and again. ®

MORE QUALITY INCLUSIONS THAN ANY OTHER RESORTS IN THE WORLD CALL YOUR TRAVEL AGENT OR 1-800-BEACHES • BEACHES.COM Jamaica • Turks & Caicos Activities vary by resort. *Scuba diving is included for certified divers. PADI resort dive courses, night dives and kids’ dive programs are additional. ^Surf simulator available only at Beaches Turks & Caicos. Beaches is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc., is the affiliate of the worldwide representative of Beaches Resorts. ®

your needs, your neighborhood

December 2013 I parentguide News I 27

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.

28 I parentguide News I December 2013

parentguidenews.com

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.

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 29

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. 30 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.

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 - Losing baby teeth to tooth decay is okay. It is a common easily be the first to spot early signs of myth that losing baby teeth due to tooth decay is insignificant tooth decay and other oral diseases. They because baby teeth fall out anyway. Tooth decay in baby teeth can help your dentist nip the problem in can actually result in damage to the developing crowns of the the bud before it gets out of hand. And, permanent teeth growing below them. If baby teeth are lost of course, practice good oral health care prematurely, the permanent teeth may erupt mal-positioned and with your children, ensuring they brush eventually require orthodontics. their teeth twice per day, floss, and limit sugary foods. These simple things can - You don’t need to worry about cavities in baby teeth. As mensecure them healthy smiles many years 419 Park South,for13th Floor, Newteeth. York, If NYcavities 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Faxroad. 212-447-7734 tioned above, baby teeth holdAvenue the space permanent down the are left untreated in baby teeth, they can develop into serious pain and abscesses. Occasionally the # TO: the infection can spread to other areas of FAX body, and in rare occasions, it can even result in death.

PROOF

FROM:

ISSUE DATE:

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 Oral Healthand/or (NIIOH)OK. Physician AsPlease call or Initiative fax youroncomments sistant 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, SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: education, and prevention.

Dr. Mindy Pediatric Dentistry Dentistry For Pediatric, Adolescent & Special Needs Patients state-of-the-art facility equipped with the

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your needs, your neighborhood

December 2013 I parentguide News I 31

Ellen Legare and d, Sallianne McClellan .You creators of Art is.. treats xed Media Art Re

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.

32 I parentguide News I December 2013

parentguidenews.com

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.

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.

SK-Dec. ‘13

your needs, your neighborhood

Treat Your Skin

From emerginC, the Coconut-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. Jesse Berberich is the editorial intern.

December 2013 I parentguide News I 33

Update

by Jesse Berberich

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.

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

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. Jesse Berberich is the editorial intern.

s e z i r P g n i m o c Up & Giveaways You, Too, Can WIN! Enter at www.parentguidenews.com

Cake Boss™ Serveware Stoneware Cookie Jar

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Winners

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To enter any or all of our fabulous Facebook giveaways, become our fan at facebook.com/parentguidenews. Our Facebook fans receive tons of chances to win exclusive prizes, as well as access to contests that run in print, article highlights, and news regarding all things parenting. 34 I parentguide News I December 2013

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your needs, your neighborhood

December 2013 I parentguide News I 35

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PHYSICAL COMEDY: THE NEWEST OLDEST ART FORM.

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December 7: Friends Academy, Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley, (516)393-4207, camp@fa.org, www.fasummercamp.org, 10am-noon. December 7: Vincent Smith School, 322 Port Washington Boulevard, Port Washington, (516)365-4900, www. vincentsmithschool.org, noon-3pm. December 14 and 21: Mill Basin Day Camp, 5945 Strickland Ave., Brooklyn, (718)251-6200, www.millbasindaycamp.com.

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Opening December 3: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tis the Seasonâ&#x20AC;Ś Special House Tours, Louis Armstrong House Museum, 34-56 107th St., Corona, (718)478-8274, www.louisarmstronghouse.org. This holiday season, the Louis Armstrong House Museum presents tours of the holiday-themed and decorated former home of the world-famous jazz legend. In addition to some spectacular holiday decor, the 40-minute, guided interpretive tours features rare audio clips from Louisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal recordings of himself and family celebrations at home. Through December 29. Times Vary. December 5: Central Park Holiday Lighting, Charles A. Dana Discovery Center at Central Park, Enter at East 110th Street and Fifth Avenue, www.centralparknyc.org. Families are invited to kick off the holiday season with a holiday lighting extravaganza: The Dana Discovery Center and a flotilla of 17 evergreen trees on the Harlem Meer will remain lit through the holidays. At this event, a lighting ceremony is set to include activities like caroling, photo opportunities with Santa and a sleighful of cookies and hot cocoa. All ages are welcome. 5:30pm. December 7: Brooklyn Friends School Winter Festival and Artisan Craft Fair, Brooklyn Friends School, 375 parentguidenews.com

Pearl St., Brooklyn, (718)852-1029, www.brooklynfriends.org. Friends and family are invited to enjoy a carnival, holiday shopping, a wreath and plant sale, magic shows and more. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the activities like crafts and face painting! 10:30am-5pm.

Proof

December 7: Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Market 2.0, The New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona, www.nysci.org. Families with children of all ages are invited to churn butter, learn about the food you eat and ways to preserve, prepare, and plant with hands-on activities, demos and chats with local urban farmers, picklers and beekeepers. Noon.

December 8-14

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

December 7 and 8: Wreathmaking Workshop, Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Glen Oaks, (718)347-3276, www.queensfarm.org. Make a beautiful evergreen wreath at these enjoyable workshops. All materials provided,you only need to bring a garden shear. Registration and prepayment required. 10am, 12pm, and 2pm.

December 8: Snow Whiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas, NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury, (516)3340800, www.thetheatreatwestbury.com. Enjoy a holiday story with a classic Disney Princess. Noon. December 8: Winter Solstice Celebration, Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing, (718)886-3800, www.queensbotanical.org. Enjoy nature, music, food and shopping at the Gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebration of the Winter Solstice. Children can take a garden tour, get to work on botanical crafts, take in musical performances and nibble on a seasonal treat. The festival closes with a tree-lighting ceremony at 4:30pm. Appropriate for families with children of all ages. 1pm.

Proof

December 13: Corona Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Orchestra Concert, Queens Museum, New York City Building, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, (718)592-9700, www.queensmuseum.org. Celebrate the growth of NĂşcleo Corona with more than 150 young musicians, members of the Corona Youth Music Projects orchestras, choir and orchestral initiation ensembles. The program has been serving the community by providing a safe, fun place for children to develop discipline, persistence, and selfesteem through music, and become productive valued members of society. 6-8pm.

December 14: Storybook Discovery, Voelker Orth Museum, Bird Sanctuary and Victorian Garden, 149-19 38th Ave., Flushing, (718)359-6227, www.vomuseum.org. Cultivate the joys of learning and reading while having fun at the your needs, your neighborhood

December 2013 I parentguide News I 37

DECEMBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2010 Voelker Orth Museum’s Storybook Discovery Days! Families with children age 6 and younger read and do a related art or nature activity with Karyn Mooney. 11am-noon.

, what s happen

December 14: Snowflakes are Falling, King Manor Museum, 150-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica, (718)206-0545, www.kingmanor.org. Visitors to this historic house museum learn about the ways in which children from other eras enjoyed the winter, listen to stories, and craft such seasonal icons as snowflakes. Noon.

December 14: Nutcracker and Toyland, LaGuardia Community College, Main Stage Theater, 31-10 Thomson Ave., Long Island City, www.lagcc.cuny.edu. Clara travels with the help of music, dance, and imagination. Join her on this exotic trip across time with the Nutcracker Prince. Get an injection of holiday cheer on this musical journey that happens only once a year. 3pm.

December 15-21

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38 I parentguide News I December 2013

December 15: Max and Ruby, NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury, (516)334-0800, www.thetheatreatwestbury.com. Everyone’s favorite little bunnies are getting ready for Christmas, when they are swept up in an adventure inspired by the Nutcracker Suite. 1pm and 4pm. December 21: Breakfast with Santa, The Long Island Aquarium, 431 E. Main St., Riverhead, (631)208-9200, ext. H2O (426). Families enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast in the waterfront Sea Star Ballroom with the star of the season. Guests have the opportunity to make a special take-home, holiday keepsake. Reservations are required and can be made via telephone. 10am, noon, and 2pm. December 21: A Christmas Story, BAM, Peter Jay Sharp Building, Roses Cinemas, 30 Lafayette Ave., Brooklyn, www.bam.org. Based on the memoir of beloved humorist Jean Shepherd, this Yuletide comedy captures the spirit of

In order to ensure the best possible experience at community events and programs, please check with the host before attending in case details have changed. parentguidenews.com

1940s middle America through the story of young Ralphie, who desperately wants a Red Rider BB gun for Christmas and spends his winter making his case to everyone from his parents and teachers to Santa Claus. 11am. December 21: Kwanzaa Workshop: African Adornment, Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Boulevard, Flushing, www.flushingtownhall.org. Honor the values of African cultures as families gather to celebrate Kwanzaa in style. Experts talk about the importance of dress and personal style as manifest in the Kwanzaa principle of Kujichagulia or Self-Determination. 3pm.

December 22-28 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

queenslibrary.org. Kids and teens make crafts that celebrate the season and can be made for holidays or birthdays. At this event, enjoy making paper butterflies! 4:30pm. December 27: Kwanzaa Celebration: Regeneration Night, Apollo Theater, 253 W. 125th St., www.apollotheater.org. Celebrate Kwanzaa with The Apollow’s popular annual show, featuring the renowned New York-based dance company Abdel Salaam’s Forces of Nature Dance Theatre, and other special guests. Radio broadcaster, poet and songwriter, Imhotep Gary Byrd, hosts the evening’s program. 7:30pm.

PROOF

December 29-31

December 22: Noel: A Night of Everlasting Love, Douglaston Immaculate Conception Center, 7200-7250 Douglaston Boulevard, Douglaston, (516)334-1536, www.thejosephinefoundation.org. Celebrate the season in concert with some of the most beautiful carols ever written for the classical choir. This performance features some of the finest voices in the tri-state area, with a symphony orchestra. 3pm and 7pm.

December 29: Family Nature Crafts, Fort Totten Visitor’s Center, Fort Totten Park, 212th Street and Bell Boulevard, (718)352-1769, www.nycgovparks.org. Children who spend time outdoors develop strong imaginations and learn to socialize better with others. Urban Park Rangers connect children with nature to encourage active exploration of the natural world in a safe, supportive atmosphere. All supplies provided. 1pm.

December 27: Let’s Celebrate with Crafts!, Pomonok Library, 158-21 Jewel Ave., Flushing, (718)591-4343, www.

December 31: Fishes and (Butterfly) Wishes Family New Year’s Event Date, Long Island Aquarium & Exhi-

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December 2013 I parentguide News I 39

DECEMBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2010 bition Center, Sea Star Ballroom, 431 E. Main St., Riverhead, (631)208-9200. Bring the whole clan down to enjoy plenty of great food and great fun, plus entertainment you won’t find anywhere else. Kids are invited to their very own Winter Wonderland, which includes animal encounters, crafts, and more! 6:30-11pm.

Lincoln Center Plaza, www.lincolncenter.org. The NYC holiday staple production is back with The New York City Ballet’s full roster of ballerinas, danseurs and musicians—plus children from the School of American Ballet to perform Balanchine’s classic. Appropriate for audience members age 5 and older. Times vary. Every Day in September: Whales: Giants of the Deep: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street (212) 769-5200, www.amnh.org. Featuring life-size models, interactive exhibits, and films, the family-friendly exhibition also reveals the history of the close relationship between humans and whales. Through January, 5, 2014.

, ProoF Proof what s happening

SEPTEMBER 2010

419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 All Month Long Every Day in December: Gingerbread Lane, The New

York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th to: FAx # St., Corona, www.nysThrough December 24: Christmas Tree and Poinsetci.org. The hall is ready for the holidays with homemade tia sales, Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little gingerbread houses, all of the structures are designed, From: iSSue DAte: Neck Parkway, Glen Oaks, (718)347-3276, www. drafted, baked, planned, built, and decorated by chef Jon queensfarm.org. Popular varieties and sizes of trees, Lovitch. Through January 12: Times Vary. evergreen wreaths, poinsettia, Amaryllis, and paperPlease call or fax your comments and/or oK. whites are on sale with proceeds benefiting the Farm Every Day in December: Luminocity, Big Apple Circus, Museum. 10am-5pm daily. SigNAture Damrosch oF APProvAl:Park at Lincoln Center, (888)541-3750, www. bigapplecircus.org. To celebrate the show’s 36th Season, Every Day in December: George Balanchine’s The Nutthe Big Apple Circus brings all of the vivacity and veloccracker, David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, 20 ity of New York City to it’s newest show: Luminocity. A Mesmerizing Story Told Through Music, Dance & Technology

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40 I parentguide News I December 2013

parentguidenews.com

NYC’s favorite one-ring circus brings back the high energy and excitement of a big circus to an intimate, oneact performance where no audience member is more than 50-feet from the ringside. Get your tickets now for Luminocity online or by calling the box office. The show runs through January 12, 2014.

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Bar/Bat mitzvahs Communions/Christenings/ Confirmations • reunions Weddings • anniversaries entertain those w/disabilities trade Show magic

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WHite doveS Every Day in December: Art in the Garden: DeconSeen By millions • now at Your occasion works! structed Flowers, Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 mtm’S SuSpenSion/ levitation in mid-air For information on how to Main St., Flushing, (718)886-3800, www.queensboCloSeup & Walk reach the best families around magiC SEPTEMBER 2010 tanical.org. H. David Stein’s unique mosaic of flora in your area, please call • Your Child “the Star” • interactive audience participation is distinctively detailed in his exhibit “Deconstructed • age-appropriate magic 212-213-8840 Flowers.” His intricate photographs pull out the dimen516-733-0373 • MadeleineTheMagician.com sional presence of flowers using a special technique which layers multiple photographs into a single monw.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 tage. The end result shows many views of the flower’s beauty in a single image. Through January 26, 2014. SEPTEM 8am-4pm daily. Share your event details by the 1st of the preceding month Every Other Saturday in December: Dotty Dot!, Se-

, what s happening?

cret Theatre, 4402 23rd St., Long Island City, (718)3920722, www.secrettheatre.com. This new musical for children depicts a day in the life of a very bossy little girl and her gang of quirky friends as they adventure to put on a play. But when Dotty gets too bossy and her mother forces her to come inside, will the neighborhood kids be able to work together to save the show? Find out. 2pm.

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Submit family activities and events FREE of charge at www.parentguidenews.com/Catalog/SubmitACalendarItem or e-mail Samantha Chan: samantha@parentguidenews.com

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December 2013 I parentguide News I 41

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

42 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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a Deâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Longhi AC230 Air Purifier We want to see your favorite family moment of 2013. Share a photo that captures your family members on vacation, in a special embrace, showing off a new sibling, or in whatever scene made you all the happiest together in the past year. Enter at www.parentguidenews.com by December 31 for a chance to win the deluxe air purifier or tickets to a Broadway play such as Cinderella. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll post select entries online for viewer voting until the end of January.

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