January 2014 Manhattan by PARENTGUIDE News

JANUARY 2014

Manhattan

School & Program

Directory The best and brightest

Changing Classrooms Tablets and tech

Therapy for Motor Disorders www.parentguidenews.com Over 1,000 Exciting Family Events M

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

ENTER TO WIN LOTS OF PRIZES INSIDE!

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CAMP SHOWCASE

contents contents

table of

The weekday school aT RiveRside chuRch

490 RiveRside dRive, New yoRk, Ny 10027

is pleased to announce

SUMMERSIDE CAMP 2014

January 2014 Volume 31 • Number 1

Session I: June 16-27 January 2014 Volume 31 • Number 1 MInI CAMP FUll CAMP Session II: June 30 - 11(closed 7/4) for 2s and young 3s for 3-6 year-olds Session III: July 14 - 25 8:45am - 12:30pm 8:45am - 2:30pm

Contests

Education Coverage

Proof

Plugged In................... 16

P. 34

At the intersection of academics and technology.

Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 42 Registration for the Summerside Camp program is under way. Information and

Bundle of Joyforms Photo Contest...................................... 51 registration are available:

www.wdsnyc.org/pages/summerside-camp Education Directory...... 18www.parentguidenews.com

Leading schools, programs, and resources near you.

P. 32

Muscle Work..................... 32

Call for entertainment more information and activities. This month’s 212-870-6743

Health............................................................................. 40 Insight and items for your family’s care.

Be sure to Travel............................................................................... 41 reserve a spotDestinations, product picks, and getaway tips. Register by Update............................................................................ 42 Essential products and information for yourMay brood.1, 2014 In Season........................................................................ 50

Constraint-induced movement therapy for neuromotor disorders.

Fun and cozy ways to enjoy the snowy season.

Sara Gubenko, MSed Bonus

Health & Fitness

What’s Happening........................................................ 44 of Science in Elementary A comprehensive listing of yourMaster neighborhood’s classes, performances, and events. and Literacy Education Cover Credit: Ann Ellerton Photography

Eat Smart, Play Safe....... 12

Nutrition and fitness go hand in hand.

Publisher Steve Elgort Private tutor

Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina

NYC teacher reading & Writing Specialist Associate Editor Samantha Chan

Managing Editor Donald McDermott

Features

Editorial Intern Jordan Brueckner

When You’re Expecting...... 14

Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli

Solutions to common gestational dilemmas.

Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski

Q & A with a TV Mogul...... 36 Leader in children’s programming Marilyn Olin finds her true calling in print.

• 212-213-8840

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

The positives of performance.

P. 12

Columns

Contact: Tricia Pool at tpool@wdsnyc.org

Why Theater?................ 34

Special Needs

Online:

Accounting Teresa Pinargote Contributing Writers Sarah Hasselbeck; Rallie McAllister, M.D.; Corey W. Stone; Marcus Ticotin; Dr. Alice Wilder; Karen Young

P. 14

Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti Advertising Sales Representatives Providing academic Karin Mikelis, Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, Jennifer Serpi, Support Rena Spangler, Stafford, Ericato Tiso &Felicia enrichment

New Year, New You.................................. 38 Forget about resolutions!

PGTV Producer Beth Elgort Children across Manhattan

Feeling Good, Looking Good.................. 39 Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous.

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.

(646) 389-7323 • Ms.Sarae@gmail.com

P. 38

January 2014 I parentguide News I

contents contents

Reach Thousands of Your Education Coverage Best Prospects for About $2 Per Day table of

table of

January 2014 Volume 31 • Number 1

Plugged In................... 16

P. 34

At the intersection of academics and technology.

Education Directory...... 18 Leading schools, programs, and resources near you.

Why Theater?................ 34 The positives of performance.

Now, www.parentguidenews.com makes P. 32 Special it easy and affordable to place ADVERTISING DIRECTLY ONLINE. Needs

Muscle Work..................... 32

Constraint-induced movement Just click on the “advertising information” link therapy for neuromotor disorders.

at the top of the www.parentguidenews.com home page and follow the simple P. 12 steps to take your business to a totally new place.

Health & Fitness

Eat Smart, Play Safe....... 12

Nutrition fitness go hand in hand. Please note that you and can always receive personal assistance by calling the Advertising Direct Helpline at (212) 213-8840, ext. 224 When You’re Expecting...... 14 or e-mailing us at Solutions to common gestational dilemmas. advertisingdirect@parentguidenews.com.

Features

Q & A with a TV Mogul...... 36 Leader in children’s programming Marilyn Olin finds her true calling in print.

January 2014 Volume 31 • Number 1

Contests

Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 42 Bundle of Joy Photo Contest...................................... 51

Columns

Don’t Miss........................................................................ 8 This month’s entertainment and activities.

Health............................................................................. 40 Insight and items for your family’s care.

Travel............................................................................... 41 Destinations, product picks, and getaway tips.

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

In Season........................................................................ 50 Fun and cozy ways to enjoy the snowy season.

Bonus

What’s Happening........................................................ 44 A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, performances, and events. Cover Credit: Ann Ellerton Photography

Publisher Steve Elgort Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina Managing Editor Donald McDermott Associate Editor Samantha Chan Editorial Intern Jordan Brueckner Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski Accounting Teresa Pinargote Contributing Writers Sarah Hasselbeck; Rallie McAllister, M.D.; Corey W. Stone; Marcus Ticotin; Dr. Alice Wilder; Karen Young

P. 14

Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti Advertising Sales Representatives Karin Mikelis, Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, Jennifer Serpi, Rena Spangler, Felicia Stafford, Erica Tiso

New Year, New You.................................. 38 Forget about resolutions!

PGTV Producer Beth Elgort

Feeling Good, Looking Good.................. 39 Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous. I parentguide News I January 2014

P. 38

parentguidenews.com

y r a u n OPEN HOUSES IN Ja

Winston Preparatory

Bilingual Buds

Twin Parks Montessori: Park West Montessori School

Upper Valley Preschool

126 W. 17th St., New York, NY 10011 (646)638-2705 mbramlett@winstonprep.edu; mrodriguez@winstonprep.edu www.winstonprep.edu January 7, 6-8pm. January 14, 9:15-11:15am.

175 Riverside Boulevard, New York, NY 10069 (212)787-8088 www.bilingualbuds.com

435 Central Park West, New York, NY 10025 (212)678-6072 www.twinparks.org

103 W. 96th St. New York, NY 10025 (212)257-4749 info@uppervalleypreschool.com

January 8, 9:30am. RSVP on website.

January 9, 6:15pm. RSVP to pwadmissions@twinparks.org.

January 9, 6:30-8pm.

Rutgers Community Programs

Asphalt Green Battery Park City

Academy of St. Joseph

Twin Parks Montessori: Riverside Montessori

Rutgers Presbyterian Church 236 W. 73rd St., New York, NY 10023 (212)877-8227, ext. 212 jmoore@rutgerschurch.org www.rutgerschurch.com

211 North End Ave. New York, NY, 10282 (212)298-2900 camps@asphaltgreen.org www.asphaltgreen.org/camp

111 Washington Place, New York, NY 10014 (212)243-5420 info@aosj.us www.academyofsaintjoseph.org

202 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10025 (212)665-1600 admissions@twinparks.org www.twinparks.org

January 11, 9:30am-12:30pm. RSVP required.

January 12, 11:30am-1:30pm.

January 14, 9-10am.

January 15, 9:30am. RSVP to admissions@twinparks.org.

Deerkill Day Camp

Friends Seminary

River School

Kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Korner Preschool

54 Wilder Road, Suffern, NY 10901 (845)354-1466 directors@deerkilldaycamp.com www.deerkilldaycamp.com

222 E. 16th St., New York, NY 10003 (212)979-5035, ext. 152 rhoffmann@friendsseminary.org www.friendsseminary.org

75 West End Ave., New York, NY 10023 (212)707-8300 kidslearn@theriverschool.com www.theriverschool.com

247 W. 24th St., New York, NY 10011 (212)229-9340 kidskornernyc@gmail.com www.thekidskornerpreschool.com

January 20, 10am. RSVP required.

January 28, 5-7pm.

Monday-Friday, 9am-noon and 2:30-5pm. By appointment.

By appointment.

Promote your Open Houses to thousands of families reading PARENTGUIDE News magazine and www.parentguidenews.com. Contact karen@parentguidenews.com

Seton Day Care Center & Elizabeth Seton Preschool 245 E. 92nd St., New York, NY 10128 (212)369-9626 susanp@nyfoundling.org www.setondaycare.org www.setonpreschool.org By appointment.

Please check with the school or camp prior to attendance to confirm listing details and make a reservation if required. your needs, your neighborhood

January 2014 I parentguide News I

Letter from the Editor U The start of a new year brings goals and dreams to the forefront. Perhaps, in 2014, you hope to take your family to a destination you’ve always admired. Maybe you want to try a hobby that you can all enjoy together. How about daring yourself to conquer a fear? PARENTGUIDE News is thinking big, too: This year, we aim to offer even more cutting-edge articles, tons of wow-worthy prizes, and scores of essential resources. Our plans are already well underway. For great articles, first tune in to “Plugged In” by Dr. Alice Wilder and discover how kids are using tech to enhance their learning experience. Whether you’ve already noticed your tot’s digital savvy, or you want to discover how teachers enrich academics with tablets and SMART Boards, you’ll find Dr. Wilder’s insight an asset. With more than 125 articles on the subject at www.parentguidenews.com, it’s no surprise we consider special needs to be a top priority for coverage. In “Muscle Work,” Corey W. Stone, MS, OTR/L, delves into the world of constraint-induced movement therapy and its potential for helping children with neuromotor disorders. While we’re talking resolutions, you may find you adhere

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Proof

by Rachel Kalina

better to your goals when using a less time-sensitive approach. Take a tip from Karen Young’s “New Year, New You,” in which she shares her experience of achieving a year’s worth of challenges broken into realistic portions and encourages you to do the same. As far as prizes go, we’ve managed to pack as many as we could into this issue! Snag a chance to win one such item when you submit a cozy-looking pic of your child to the Bundle of Joy Photo Contest, or simply turn to our Travel, Health, In Season, and Womom columns for additional opportunities to win great giveaways! Last but certainly not least, you’ll find vital resources in the Education Directory. All the schools and programs your child needs are right there at your fingertips. We’d love to hear your thoughts on the articles you’ve read, prizes you’ve won, and more on our Facebook page at www.facebook. com/parentguidenews and in the comments section at The Sandbox Social blog, featuring exclusive stories by moms.

Proof

Happy New Year! www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Image Credit: Maggie Susse-O’Connor

CAMP SHOWCASE

SK-January 2014

The BesT Gift You Can Give Your Child! Spirit, Fun and Friendships! North Jersey’s Premier Day Camp Est. 1989

Building the future, one Camper at a Time

Well Balanced Swim, Sports & Art Programs

Open HOuSeS: Sunday, January 5th Sunday, January 19th 9:30am to 12pm

Call to schedule your tour.

• Boys & Girls ages 3 - 15; Camp Hours: 9am-4pm • Door to Door A/C Mini Bus Transportation, Serving Bergen, Morris, Essex, Passaic & Manhattan • Tuition includes Transportation, Lunch, Uniform Camp Shirts • Daily red Cross Swim Instruction and General Swim (Heated Pools) • Professional Coaches and Instructors Just • Magnificent 30 Acre Campus 25 miles from

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973-831-9000 • www.sldc.com

234 Conklintown Rd. Ringwood, NJ 6 I parentguide News I January 2014

parentguidenews.com

CAMP SHOWCASE

Camp Keshet

Attention!

Park Avenue Synagogue Day Camp

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what kids with ADHD want. And thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get at The Child Study Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summer Program for Kids (SPK), the only evidence-based summer WUHDWPHQW SURJUDP LQ 1HZ <RUN VSHFLĂ&#x20AC;FDOO\ WDLORUHG WR PHHW WKH needs of children between the ages of 7 and 11 with ADHD. The program is directed by nationally recognized clinicians from New York University Langone Medical Center who are leading experts LQ WKHLU Ă&#x20AC;HOG ,W LV D SUHPLHU SURJUDP DWWUDFWLQJ IDPLOLHV IURP DFURVV the country and around the world. The program consists of:

Proof

car i n Ju prog daic experie g, ra m m nced ing staff

Proof summer fun

theme days

yoga

on the Upper East Side

for kids ages 3 - 5Â˝ June 23 - August 8 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840 Israeli arts and 5, 6 & 7 week sessions

Â&#x2021; Behavioral techniques used to promote positive behavior Â&#x2021; Development of social and academic competence Â&#x2021; Nurturing and fun atmosphere Â&#x2021; Swimming and group sports daily Â&#x2021; +LJKO\ TXDOLĂ&#x20AC;HG VWDII RI SV\FKRORJLVWV WHDFKHUV DQG psychology undergraduates and graduate students Â&#x2021; Excellent staff/child ratio of 1 to 1-2 Â&#x2021; Seven weeks, starting the last week of June

www.parentguidenews.com â&#x20AC;˘

ed certifi m i sw tion c instru

The Child Study Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summer Program for Kids (SPK) prepares children to start the school year as better adjusted and more socially skilled students. Parents also receive specialized training to make the most of their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer experience.

For more information, please call 212.263.0760 or visit us on the web at www.aboutourkids.org

JOIN US FOR AN

OPEN HOUSE

JAN. 28 | FEB. 25 5-7 PM

crafts

c and musi ment move

Indoor & outdoor play facilities

culture

Shab progrbat am

For more information or to enroll, contact us at 212-369-2600 ext 153 OR camp@pasyn.org

Fieldston outdoors

@ ethiCal Culture Fieldston sChool

UNIQUE PROGRAMS for pre-schoolers

TWO CUTE WEE ARE THREE FOURS & FUN FIVES & FUN for older kids SKATEBOARD CAMP CREATIVE DAY

JUNE 9-AUGUST 1 weekly programs for kids ages 3-11

FRIENDS SEMINARY 222 EAST 16TH ST. NEW YORK, NY 10003 212.979.5035

Coed day Camp ages 5-12 Full session: June 30-August 8 session 1: June 30-July 18 session 2: July 21-August 8 Offering a unique focus on nature and the Hudson River through songs, folklore, crafts and trips including overnight camping options. Also offering a full range of traditional camp activities with an elective format. Activities include cooking, physical education, swimming, yoga, gardening and music. Full/per session rates and financial aid are available. Door to door bus service to and from Manhattan is available for an additional cost.

For Further inFo, please ContaCt: david smelin, direCtor 718-329-7352 Fieldstonoutdoors@eCFs.org Fieldston outdoors ethiCal Culture Fieldston sChool 3901 Fieldston road, Bronx, ny 10471-3997

WWW.FRIENDSSEMINARY.ORG/SUMMERFRIENDS your needs, your neighborhood

January 2014 I parentguide News I 7

January

Don’t

MISS

Going Nuts

The Nut Job is an action-packed animated comedy that follows a mischievous squirrel named Surly and his rat friend, Buddy. Together, the two friends plan an outrageous nut store heist that draws them into a much more complicated and totally hilarious adventure. Featuring the vocal talents of Brendan Fraser, Katherine Heigl, and Liam Neeson, The Nut Job opens in 2D and 3D on January 17.

Dance Party

Set fitness goals and get in shape as a family with a little help from Zumba Fitness World Party. The interactive game offers a streamlined progress tracker as well as more than 30 dance styles from around the world. Highlighting the action is an amazing Zumba soundtrack that includes chart-topping songs from Lady Gaga and Pitbull. Zumba Fitness World Party is available now for the Nintendo Wii.

True Blue

Bring home the perfect blend of live action and animated fun with The Smurfs 2 (Sony Pictures Entertainment). In the follow up to the 2011 hit, evil wizard Gargamel creates a couple of mischievous Smurf-like creatures called the Naughties. He hopes they’ll finally let him capture the powerful and elusive Smurf-essence. The Smurfs 2, available at www.amazon.com, is on DVD and Blu-ray now.

Still Boppin’

Sung by kids, for kids, Kidz Bop continues to present age-appropriate renditions of some of today’s most popular music. The latest CD releases include songs by a variety of top artists such as Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus, One Direction, Selena Gomez, and Bruno Mars. Kidz Bop 24 is available in stores and online now. Kidz Bop 25 will be available on January 14. Find out more at www.kidzbop.com.

by Donald McDermott

In The Swing

Score a hole in one with your kids by picking up Mario Golf World Tour for the Nintendo 3DS. The highly anticipated simulation game uses the popular coin collector and some of his friends to emphasize the basics of golf. Choose from a variety of players, courses, and shots as you enjoy hours out on the green. Mario Golf World Tour is available in stores and online now.

Here Comes the Bride

Winter wedding bells are in the air when five-time Golden Globe nominee Marilu Henner stars in June in January this month. The Hallmark Channel movie also features Brooke D’Orsay as a soonto-be bride whose dream wedding is threatened by her scheming, future mother-in-law. The movie premieres on the Hallmark Channel on January 11. Check your local listings for times.

Totally Cool

Discover a new way to play with Disney characters on your Nintendo Wii, Wii U, 3DS, Xbox 360, or PlayStation 3 with the Frozen Infinity Play Set Pack. Based on the animated hit movie, the exciting box set from Disney Interactive Studios allows players to transport themselves to a variety of different worlds as they mix and match an array of characters, gadgets, and more. Pick up your set today.

Fairytale Fun

Abby and Elmo take viewers on a happilyever-after adventure in Sesame Street: Fairytale Fun from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment and Sesame Workshop. The new release provides more than two hours of educational and engaging content that explores favored nursery rhymes. It also comes with a special CinderElmo bonus feature. Fairytale Fun is now available on DVD and for digital download.

Smart Thinking

Share a fun and fascinating time with your little ones with Animal Alphabet Singers. Created by the singers and songwriters of Sesame Street, the brand-new learning app from Think Smart Games takes a delightful musical approach to teaching kids the alphabet. Download your copy via iTunes. Donald McDermott is the managing editor.

SK-1/14 I parentguide News I January 2014

parentguidenews.com

LOVE What You Do...

Continued on page 35.

your needs, your neighborhood

January 2014 I parentguide News I

January Time to Talk

Light in the Night

Get ready to watch electroluminescent creatures light up the darkness during DiNO-Light at Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway. The original tale is visually stunning. It perfectly combines puppetry, technology, and dance. Two show times are available on January 11: 11am and 2pm. Visit www.symphonyspace.org.

The Day For Kings

The 37th Annual Three Kings Day Parade is back, kicking off at 106th Street and Lexington Avenue on January 6 at 11am. El Museo Del Barrio brings live camels, colorful puppets, parrandas, and dancing into the community on this magical day. This year’s celebration is of wellness of mind, body, spirit. The parade route continues north on Third Avenue and concludes at Park Avenue and 116th Street. Learn more at www.elmuseo.org.

by Samantha Chan

A Wild Day

Members of the Wolf Conservation Center from South Salem, New York, visit the American Museum of Natural History on January 11. Meet Atka, an arctic gray wolf, and learn about wolves and their role in sustaining a healthy ecosystem. There are three show times in the Linder Theater: 11am, 1pm, and 2:30pm. Questions? Click on www.amnh.org. Then head to Central Park West at 79th Street for a wild time.

Want to step up your family’s dinner time routine? Asphalt Green Battery Park City hosts Tuesday Talks, and on January 7 at noon, join Jenny Rosenstrach to discuss different ways to get enjoyable family dinners on the table. Rosenstrach is the author of Dinner: A Love Story (Ecco) and a columnist at Bon Apetit. Asphalt Green Battery Park is located at 212 North End Ave. Learn more by dialing (212)298-2900 or visiting www.asphaltgreenbpc.org.

Start Your Resolution

One popular New Year’s resolution is to be healthier. Start strong at the Awaken Wellness Fair on January 19 at the Hotel Pennsylvania, 401 Seventh Ave. Visit with informative speakers, gifted healers, intuitive readers, and cutting-edge vendors. The expo takes place 10am-5pm. For more information, visit www.awakennewyork.org.

CAMP SHOWCASE M MB 1/14

10 I parentguide News I January 2014

parentguidenews.com

January

All-American Yoga

Families with little ones age 7 and older are invited to American Girl Downward Doll Yoga at Karma Kids Yoga on January 25, 2-3:30pm. They’ll explore pint-size poses, mini mudras, and bitsy balances, all while meeting other American Girl doll enthusiasts. Then, they’ll decorate mini yoga mats for the dolls. Children and their dolls should be dressed for yoga activities. Karma Kids Yoga is located at 104 W. 14th St. Information is available and reservations can be made by dialing (646)638-1444.

New Care Options

Navigating City Schools

Head to Rutgers Community Programs, 236 W. 73rd St., for an information session about how to apply for NYC public pre-kindergarten programs. On January 27, 6pm, learn about Universal Pre-Kindergarten programs, which are free of charge and offered by the Department of Education at select public elementary schools and community-based organizations. Register for the session by contacting Jennifer Moore at jmoore@rutgerschurch.org or (212)877-8227, ext. 212.

Proof A Strong Future Proof Dazzling Disney

Family Care Options has been offering expert nanny services to NYC and beyond, providing a great resource for families where both parents work and need some extra help. New to the company’s lineup of available services is corporate-sponsored backup childcare. In the case of an emergency, whether it’s a sick child or unexpected school closing, an experienced nanny arrives at your home to take care of your child at a moment’s notice. Learn more about Family Care Options by dialing (646)530-1109. The company is based at 112 W. 34th St., 18th Floor.

Mickey, Minnie, Donald and 62 other Disney characters from 18 classic stories come together to celebrate 100 Years of Magic, running January 2226, at the Barclays Center. Recall your favorite moments from the Lion King and Mulan, and create new memories as Disney on Ice promises a thrilling, exciting, and heartwarming show for audiences of all ages. Log onto Disneyonice.com or dial (800)745-3000 for tickets. The Barclays Center is located at 620 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn.

The Warren Buffett Secret Millionaires Club “Grow Your Own Business Challenge” is up and running through January 31 for children ages 7-14 to create a new business idea. The competition is sponsored by the Fairholme Foundation to further its mission of improving financial education. After the conclusion of the competition, five selected individuals and three team finalists travel to Omaha, Nebraska, to present their winning ideas to Warren Buffet. Learn more and enter online at www.smckids.com.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Samantha Chan is the associate editor.

CAMP SHOWCASE

M MB 1/14

RSS SUMMER CAMP Come play with us!

June 23 August 8, 2014 Enroll in our 7 week

Located at Rodeph Sholom School on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, RSS Camp offers summer fun in a safe and stimulating learning environment for children entering a threes program through kindergarten. avarrone@rssnyc.org 7 West 83rd Sreet, NYC 10024 646.438.8500 x1749 www.rodephsholomschool.org

program for the full summer or weekly, for full or half days

sç(EATEDç0OOLSç sç!IRç#ONDITIONEDç 'YMçANDç#LASS ç ROOMSçsç2OOFTOPçç 0LAYGROUNDçs

sç#ERTIlEDç4EACHERSçsç 3WIMç)NSTRUCTIONçsç-USICç sç!RTSçANDç#RAFTSçsç3PORTSçsç 9OGAçsç&IELDç4RIPSç sç3PECIALç%VENTSçs your needs, your neighborhood

January 2014 I parentguide News I 11

EAT PLAY

Nutrition and fitness go hand in hand. by Sarah Hasselbeck

he life of a professional athlete, like that of my husband and NFL quarterback, Matthew Hasselbeck, is focused on preparation for a successful performance on the playing ďŹ eld. This requires dedication to practicing and pushing your body to the extreme. Eating smart so everything you put in your body can fuel your goals is essential. Thanks to Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s place on the Indianapolis Colts, my family has lived a particularly health-conscious lifestyle for many years now. Nutritious eating and staying active through sports are values that have been imprinted on our three children. I also played Division I collegiate ďŹ eld hockey during my academic career. The experience taught me the importance of vitamin intake and choosing the right type of nutrients to put in my body. Since becoming a mom, I have investigated these vitamins and nutrients and their beneďŹ ts for my childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bodies, too. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve found that omega-3 fatty acid DHA, vitamin D, calcium, and iron help childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brains and bones develop and stay healthy. To raise awareness about the importance of eating smart and staying safe while engaging in sports, I have teamed up with Pop Warner Little Scholars. This nonproďŹ t offers youth sport programs. Together with DSM Nutritional Products, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re promoting an educational initiative for parents of active kids called Eat Smart, Play Safe. This program combines Pop Warnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expertise in athletics with DSMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vast knowledge of nutrition, and it is the cornerstone for how families can consider young athletesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; health and safety â&#x20AC;&#x201D; both on and off the ďŹ eld.

Eat Smart, Play Safe tips for you and your family: Adopt or maintain the philosophy that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your job to supply your child with a variety of nutritious foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat milk products and protein-rich meats or beans. It is also great to teach your child what and how much of those foods to eat. Set rules and stick with them. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for you to be a good role model for your kids. Set boundaries when it comes to the foods your family consumes, the amount of exercise and playtime everyone gets, and the family schedule. 12 I parentguide News I January 2014

Ask your doctor about a beneďŹ cial childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s multivitamin (my family likes Lilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Critters Omega-3 DHA Gummy Fish) since most kids arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t perfect eaters. Get enough sleep every night so you can perform your best every day. When playing youth sports, brain health must always be at the forefront of the mind. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acid DHA is important in supporting brain development and may help improve memory and cognitive function. Children should consume at least 200 mg of DHA a day through fatty ďŹ sh, fortiďŹ ed foods and beverages, or a daily DHA supplement. Remember to check with your health care provider before making changes to your kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; diets. parentguidenews.com SK-Jan.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;14

Always wear a helmet and proper safety gear. Whether you are going on a family bike outing or your child is playing youth sports, appropriate safety gear is essential. Be a role model for your children and practice safety methods like fastening your seat belt, putting on sunscreen, and checking gear before starting any sports activities. Vitamin D, along with calcium, is essential for healthy bone development in children and adolescents. Adolescents are the most susceptible to developing vitamin D deficiency. To prevent this, ensure they eat plenty of vitamin D-rich foods, such as oily fish, egg yolks, and mushrooms, and get at least 15 minutes a day of sunlight. Vitamin D is also available in an easy-to-take supplement. Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout a sports practice, game, or workout is incredibly important. Pack an extra water bottle in your child’s sports bag and have supplies ready in the car to ensure he’s getting enough fluid.

419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734

As this year’s school and sports season continues, I encourage all families to “eat TO: FAX # smart” by choosing healthy foods and beverages and to “play safe” by stretching, wearing proper equipment, and following the rules. My husband and I have learned FROM: DATE: a lot about nutrition over the years from coaches, teammates, NFL trainers,ISSUE various books, and articles. We can all impact each other by sharing and seeking information on how to eat smart and live happier, healthier lives.

Please call or fax your comments and/or OK.

Sarah Hasselbeck is the mom of three active, school-age children, an all-American collegiate athlete, and the wife of NFL SIGNATURE OF quarterback APPROVAL: Matthew Hasselbeck. Dr. Julian Bailes, M.D., Chair of the Pop Warner Medical Advisory Committee, and registered dietitian Elizabeth Somer assisted in providing the article’s recommend tips. To learn more tips on eating smart and playing safe, and to ﬁnd nutritious family recipes, visit www.popwarner.com and check out the “Safety” section.

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January 2014 I parentguide News I 13

When You’re Expecting Solutions to common gestational dilemmas. by Rallie McAllister, M.D., MPH

Morning Sickness

This symptom is so common in pregnancy that it almost seems like a rite of passage. More than half of all pregnant women experience nausea. The upset stomach or vomiting usually begins around the sixth week of gestation and lasts up to the 12th week. However, morning sickness may begin as early as week four and linger long after week 12. One product that works wonders is Three Lollies Preggie Pops, offering relief through a combination of essential oils and aromatherapy. Each sucker alleviates dry mouth, offers calories for energy, and provides soothing and comfort.

Heartburn

Nearly one-quarter of pregnant women experience heartburn during their first trimester. Further, at least half of women get it at some point during pregnancy. This side effect may begin at any point during gestation and sometimes worsens toward the final months. I never had heartburn in my life until I was pregnant. I tried to control it with dietary changes, but that was difficult because I was starving all the time. Eating a huge amount of food makes heartburn worse, too. I decided to make myself eat smaller plates more frequently, even breaking up a meal into three miniature ones. Additionally, I discovered that drinking soft drinks abated my nausea. However, it made my heartburn worse. Solution? I swore off all soda. Sitting upright after meals also assuaged the burning sensation by keeping food and acid down in my stomach where they belong. Another helpful tip: If eating a bedtime snack, wait at least 30 minutes before lying down.

Fatigue

regnancy is one of life’s amazing journeys. It also leads your body into uncharted territory. As such, many challenging health issues arise along the way. Here are some examples of expected situations and ways to deal with them.

Back Pain

Between weight gain, hormonal surges and a shifting center of gravity, posterior pain is inevitable. Placing a pillow at the small of the back while seated helps ease the discomfort. To alleviate muscle tension and aching that settled in my neck and between my shoulders, I used a sturdy sports bra. It ﬁnally occurred to me that my growing breasts were responsible for much of the strain on my upper back, and my slightly ﬂimsy pre-pregnancy bra wasn’t providing enough support. 14 I parentguide News I January 2014

Getting enough sleep may be a challenge, but try to rest when possible. Pregnant women who are fatigued tend to experience more anxiety, depression, discomfort, and pain than those who are properly rested. A 20-minute nap in the afternoon followed by a cup of tea may increase energy. Most teas have small amounts of caffeine, which is allowed in limited doses during a typical pregnancy.

Acne

Your skin is certainly not immune to changes during pregnancy. Acne and pregnancy mask, or darkening of the skin, are a few negative aesthetic changes you might encounter. On the ﬂip side, all the extra blood in the veins close to your skin might give you a rosy complexion. In addition, extra hormones may make your skin smooth and shiny.

Swelling

Nearly all moms-to-be swell. I had horrible bloating toward the end of my pregnancies. My cankles had cankles! Socks with elastic at the top left deep, painful impressions in my calves. Instead, I opted to wear soft, fuzzy socks that didn’t have any plastic bands. If possible, avoid tight clothing, which is often uncomfortable during pregnancy. Rallie McAllister, M.D., MPH, is a family physician in Lexington, Kentucky, and co-author of The Mommy MD Guide to Pregnancy and Birth and The Mommy MD Guide to Your Baby’s First Year (both published by Momosa Publishing LLC). For additional information, log onto www.mommymdguides.com. parentguidenews.com SK-Jan. 2014

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January 2014 I parentguide News I 15

he world is experiencing a major shift in education and learning. The jobs for which we need to prepare kids are different from what they were in the past. And just what the jobs of the future will be is uncertain. Cathy N. Davidson, co-author of The Future of Thinking: Learning Institutions in a Digital Age (MIT Press), writes, “Sixty-five percent of today’s gradeschool kids may end up doing work that hasn’t been invented yet.” At the same time, the tools (technology) that kids have at their disposal to play, learn, and work are already significantly different than the pencil and paper that many of us used as kids. Having said that, as an educator, I find it to be one of the most exciting times in academics. Technology finally enables children to learn in the ways that researchers have found kids best understand.

When used to aid with academics, technology can:

• • • • • •

make difficult, abstract concepts visual and concrete. allow for pausing and repetition. provide consistent feedback. modify content for varying developmental needs. personalize content. allow for practice and failure without the feeling of disappointing a teacher or parent. • make various subjects more engaging and appealing. • assist educators in assessing student progress. 16 I parentguide News I January 2014

Using technology to learn, children can become immersed in what feels like play but is in fact a powerful and often personalized educational experience. Consider a well-designed, digital story for preschoolers. A handheld tablet can take the tale beyond static images and words on a page. Text highlighting, animation, and narrative prompts help bring stories to life in ways that are impossible with print books. My philosophy for developing high-quality, educational content for children is that the only way to know what kids like, understand, find challenging, as well as how they learn is to ask them. This has been a fundamental part of my research process in developing Blue’s Clues, Super WHY!, and now Speakaboos, which promotes literacy through digital storytelling. We can take a similar approach when considering the benefits and drawbacks of learning from technology by asking students and teachers. parentguidenews.com

Many schools, including the Manhattan Beach Unified School District, are doing just that. Fifth graders in the district were asked to share their thoughts about using iPads in the classroom. Their careful reflections on how the technology is improving their learning clearly echoed the specific advantages listed above. Most importantly, these students shared that they are excited to learn with and from technology. As Matthew Lynch describes in a recent issue of Education Week, “Higher engagement from k-12 students who use mobile technology is a direct result of a feeling of ownership on the part of the student.”

Proof

The children’s excitement is palpable to teachers, too. Teachers now have a plethora of technological tools, including hardware-like tablets, SMART Boards, computers, and software such as apps and digital curricula, at their disposal. With knowledge being accessible to all through technology, teachers can shift their focus to that of a coach, collaborator, and mentor and be a guide rather than a sage on the stage. Teachers are even finding ways to take games that kids love, like Angry Birds, and make them educational.

However, a word of caution to parents and teachers: Simply handing a child an iPad or the latest kids’ tablet does not guarantee he will immediately reap the learning benefits. Learning still needs to be directed and reinforced by educators and caregivers to have a meaningful impact. Finding content can be overwhelming and challenging for young learners, and creating a balance of use with other educational tools is essential and requires guidance. We should consider that the biggest impact of technology on children can occur after the iPad is turned off, when they begin to experiment with what they’ve learned. Creative, realworld application of technology as part of classroom learning supports a richer, more profound educational experience.

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Technology is an essential tool in today’s rapidly changing world. As we all learn more together about the use of technology at home and in schools, we must continue to engage in conversations to hear multiple perspectives, provide each other with ideas for use in different contexts, and keep playing. And most importantly, never leave the kids who are using the technology out of the conversation!

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Dr. Alice Wilder is the chief content officer for Speakaboos at www.speakaboos.com and serves as the educational advisor for Amazon Studios Original Children’s Programming. She is the co-creator and executive producer of Cha-Ching Money Smart Kids and a senior fellow at the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media. Dr. Wilder is best known as the co-creator and head of research and education for Super WHY!, as well as a producer and the director of research and development for Blue’s Clues.

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January 2014 I parentguide News I 17

Discover Some of the Area’s Finest Schools, Programs & Resources! Proof

Schools

School’s own theater as well as other venues. Visit www.theaileyschool.edu for more details.

The Ailey School Ecole Internationale de New York (EINY) The Joan Weill Center for Dance, 405 W. 55th St., NYC 10019 111 E. 22nd St., NYC 10010 (212)405-9000 (646)410-2238 juniordivision@alvinailey.org 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 clydejavois@einy.org www.theaileyschool.edu www.einy.org The renowned Ailey School, under directors Tracy Inman and Ecole Internationale de New York (EINY) is a French-American Melanie Person, serves as the official FAx school tO: # of Alvin Ailey Amerinternational school that offers an academic, bilingual program in ican Dance Theater. The School is a professional dance institution French and English. Mandarin starts in third grade and Spanish is with one of the best, most diverse programs available. The Ailey FrOm: School’s Junior Division offers classes iSSue taught in the middle school section. The school enrolls students for DAte: children beginning at from nursery through sixth grade (ages 3-12). In September 2014, age 3. The First Steps and Bounding Boys programs offer an enthe school expands its preschool section. It opens the seventhjoyable introduction to dance, bringing the joy of music and crePlease calltooryoung fax children. your comments and/orprogram OK. grade class in its new international Middle School section. EINY ative movement The pre-professional is accredited by the French Ministry of Education. It combines for students ages 7-17 encompasses a broad curriculum of dance the best of both French and American educational systems, ofincluding Horton, Limón and Graham-based modern SigNAtureclasses OF APPrOvAl: fering students the rigorous, more classical instruction of French dance techniques, classical ballet, tap, West African and Spanish education and the more inquiry-based teaching of the American dance. Children have the opportunity to work with professional system. EINY is a family-sized school that enrolls American dancers who are exploring their own future in dance. Classes are students who don’t speak French, French or French-American taught by nurturing dance instructors with extensive experience children, and students who speak a third or fourth language at working with children. Year-end performances are held in the

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

La Scuola d’Italia a private unique Italian/English bilingual and bicultural school providing: • Strong foundation in liberal arts, math & science • Thorough bilingual education integrating the best of Italian and American curriculum of studies • In depth study and appreciation of American, European and Italian civilizations and cultures

Graduates attend North American, Italian and European Union best Colleges and Universities Knowledge of the Italian/English language is not a pre-requisite for admission to Pre K through 9th grade La Scuola d’Italia is chartered by the Board of Regents of the State of New York and by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Italy. The School is a member of the New York State Association of Independent Schools. Pre K-12th Grade Announcing 2014-2015 Scholarships for Middle & High School Levels

LA SCUOLA D’ITALIA GUGLIELMO MARCONI 12 East 96th Street, New York, NY 10128 www.lascuoladitalia.org 212-369-3290 secretary@lascuoladitalia.org

18 I parentguide News I January 2014

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EDUCATION DIRECTORY home. The French teachers are certified by the French Ministry of Education and its American faculty members are certified by New York State. The after-school program FUNĂŠi offers a wide variety of extracurricular classes to explore the arts and practice a multitude of sports. The school opens its new Summer Camp in June/July 2014 for children aged 3-12. For information and to schedule a visit, contact Mr. Clyde Javois, director of admissions, at clydejavois@einy.org. The Family School Dag HammarskjĂśld Plaza 323 E. 47th St., NYC 10017 The Family School West 308 W. 46th St., NYC 10036 (212)688-5950 The Family School, established in 1975 and directed and founded by Lesley Nan Haberman, prides itself on its multicultural and diverse student population and staff. The faculty holds degrees in ECE, Special Education and are all Montessori certified. Total enrollment for both Schools is about 250 boys and girls. The Schools are affiliated with the American Montessori Society. In intimate, caring, eclectic environments, each child is encouraged to work independently at his or her own pace with concrete, selfcorrecting teaching materials. Carefully trained and experienced teachers stand back observing, intervening if necessary, ready at all times to facilitate, encourage, remediate where needed and, most especially, catch a child at that special moment when he is ready to make the next leap forwardâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; to a new level of mastery and knowledge. The Family School West, for children 2.6

Proof

to 6 years of age, offers an Extended Day program, like the East Side. The Family School on the East Side, for children 18 months to 12 years of age, offers Toddler, Preprimary and Elementary programs; full summer day camp, extended day, and spring and holiday recess programs. The curriculum provides a thorough grounding in math and language skills, intense enrichment in music, art, chess, martial arts, yoga, drumming, cultural arts, instruments, foreign languages and physical education. Come visit the Family School family! First Presbyterian Church Nursery School 12 W. 12th St., NYC 10011 (212)691-3432 nancy-ellen.micco@fpcns.org www.fpcns.org Founded in 1952, FPCNS is a neighborhood school welcoming children of all races, religions, abilities, cultures, economic backgrounds and family configurations. Its program is nonsectarian. The curriculum encourages children to explore materials and relationships, and express ideas and feelings, while building skills. The program includes art, music, movement, woodworking, blocks, books, manipulatives, sensory materials, plants and animals, cooking and dramatic play. Large bright classrooms with tall windows overlook trees and gardens. The fenced-in rooftop playground features riding toys, big blocks and climbing equipment. There is space for movement classes and indoor play on rainy days. Each class has three teachers, including a licensed head teacher, two assistant teachers, or an assistant and an aide. Teachers are chosen for their creativity as well as

Proof

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

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Twin Parks Montessori

Open House Events Central Park Oct 6:30 pm Nova8th 14th 6:30 pm For tour of our school, Oct please 29th submit 6:30 pm Novan 14th 6:30 pm application 1 West 91st Street New York, NY 10024 P (212) 595-2000

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F (212) 595-0101

435 Central Park West New York, NY 10025 P (212) 678-6072 F (212) 678-1998

202 Riverside Drive New York, NY 10025 P (212) 665-1600 F (212) 665-1775

RSVP enroll@ twinparks.org

RSVP pwadmissions@ twinparks.org

RSVP admissions@ twinparks.org

Twin Parks Montessori Schools are accredited by AMS, MSCES, and are members of ISAAGNY, NYSAIS, the Parents League and are affiliates of Columbia University.

KARMA KIDS YOGA 104 West 14th Street, NYC PEACE-IN STUDIO 102 West 14th Street, NYC

karmakidsyoga.com | (646) 638-1444

January 2014 I parentguide News I 19

EDUCATION DIRECTORY their knowledge, warmth and sensitivity to children. There are specialists for music, movement, studio and gardening. Parent involvement includes parent education programs, social and fund-raising events, the maintenance of an active lending library, class trips and special classroom projects.

PROOF

Come explore Kid’s Korner on an informative tour to see what all your friends are whispering about! La Scuola d’Italia “Guglielmo Marconi” 12 E. 96th St., NYC 10128 (212)369-3290 secretary@lascuoladitalia.org www.lascuoladitalia.org Initially founded in 1977 by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to meet the academic needs of Italians living in the New York City area, thanks to an ever increasing interest on the part of American families, La Scuola has grown into a unique bilingual educational institution, reflecting the best features of the Italian and American system. La Scuola is committed to providing a bicultural education to foster international understanding and openness in order to prepare students to become citizens of the world. The challenging bilingual curriculum, deeply rooted in the European classical tradition, offers an intensive academic program. A program of Italian as a Second Language is offered to English-speaking students, grades 1-9. The unique curriculum is designed to give students a firm grounding in liberal arts, math and science, together with a formidable competence in foreign languages. 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734

Kid’s Korner Preschool 247 W. 24th St., NYC 10011 (212)229-9340 kidskornernyc@gmail.com www.thekidskornerpreschool.com Chelsea’s best kept secret! Located in the heart of Chelsea, Kid’s Korner, a NAEYC accredited preschool/nursery school, occupies the first two floors of a cozy brownstone. Intimate and small classrooms are designed to provide a sense of warmth and acceptance for your child. Dedicated and highly qualified staff lead a wide range of stimulating, hands-on activities for each child. Kid’s Korner aims to meet your child’s social, intellectual, physical and emotional needs, as well as provide a sense of community and diversity within the school. Their secluded and private playground offers a peaceful existence away from the bustling and busy city. Children enjoy the comforting and relaxing atmosphere while socializing with their peers. The school accommodates children ages 2 and 3 as well as pre-kindergarten students ages 4 and 5. Kid’s Korner offers a variety of full to: and extended days as well as half day schedule arrangements designed to meet the needs of individual families. Kid’s Korner is celebrating 18 years of striving to offer the most nurturing From: and loving beginning to your child’s educational experience.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

PROOF

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

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Morningside Montessori School FAx # 251 W. 100th St., NYC 10025 (212) 316-1555 www.morningsidemontessori.orgiSSue DAte: Morningside Montessori School is a preschool for children

I LDREN

Nursery & Pre K Programs Open year round

SigNAture oF APProvAl: 201 3

www.thekidskornerpreschool.com Nursery & Pre- June K Programs September 8:30 am-5:30 pm

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July & August 9:00 am-5:00 pm Open Nursery & year Pre Kround Programs September - June 8:30Accredited am-5:30 pm NAEYC Open year round July & August 9:00 am-5:00 pm

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July 8th-July 26th Call About Our OPEN HOUSE TOURS By Appointment Only Summer Camp II (3 weeks): Open House Tours Begin in October Accepting applications for 2014/2015 July 29th-August 16th

ByAccepting Appointment Only 1,for2013 Send in your application by September applications the and application fee willschool be waived. 2013-2014 year. Accepting applications for 2014/2015 Limited time offer for new applicants only.

Send in your application by September 1, 2013

(212) www.thekidskornerpreschool.com 229-9340 www.thekidskornerpreschool.com

R AR OUT YE S 41

LO N CA EW Seton Day Care TI Elizabeth Seton Pre-School ON

Established by New York Foundling, 1972

A warm developmental educational care program serving children 2 months to 6 years 8am to 6pm, 52 weeks a year • full day/ mornings / afternoons

Open House Tours • Year-Round Admissions Call for an application and/or information.

www.setondaycare.org www.setonpreschool.org 245 East 92nd Street, Manhattan 10128 • (212) 369-9626 parentguidenews.com

EDUCATION DIRECTORY

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ages 2-5 years offering a small, nurturing environment where children can explore their love of learning and take their first steps towards independence. Morningside blends traditional Montessori materials with non-Montessori elements of early childhood education such as blocks and fantasy play. Morningside teachers create a stimulating environment as they vary materials to suit studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs and interests. Morningside loves and welcomes families of all diversities. Visit the website to apply. Accepting applications for 2014-2015 school year on September 1.

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

Riverside Church Weekday School 490 Riverside Drive, NYC 10027 (212)870-6743 pmutarelli@theriversidechurchny.org www.wdsnyc.org The Riverside Church Weekday School is a non-denominational, early childhood school serving children ages 2-5 in a nurturing setting committed to addressing the unique needs of young children. The schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is aligned with the Riverside Church mission celebrating diversity and pledging itself to education, reflection and action for peace and justice. The school draws upon a variety of proven approaches to foster independence, individuality and creativity. Supported by a collaborative community of peers, parents and teachers, the children learn to make decisions, meet complex challenges and take responsibility for their actions. The school is committed to developing an awareness and respect for the natural world and its resources within the curriculum and through a full utilization of the wealth of resources available in New York City. Side by Side at Riverside, which began in October, is a weekly 90-minute introduction to the pre-school experience for toddlers and their grown-ups. The program is designed for children 16 months to 2 1/2 years old, and morning and afternoon classes available.

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Seton Day Care Center and Elizabeth Seton Pre-School 245 E. 92nd St. NYC 10128 (212)369-9626 susanp@nyfoundling.org www.setondaycare.org www.setonpreschool.org Children from 2 months-6 years of age and their families feel at home at Seton Day Care Center & Pre-School. Established in 1972 by the New York Foundling as a community service program, this warm, personalized environment allows children to thrive as they engage in a variety of developmentally appropriate experiences. Based on the Montessori approach, the program fosters individual expression through opportunities presented for creative exploration, problem-solving and a sense of community. Seton demonstrates quality child care by combining the comforting aspects of home life with a challenging learning program that is cultivated by a staff who is responsive to childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emerging needs and interests. Rigorous standards for staffing, low staff-child ratios and a welcoming environment for parents are hallmarks of a program that serves to support childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s optimal growth and development. As an affiliate of The American Montessori Society and a member of ISAAGNY, Seton is used as a learning facility for students and intern Montessori teachers. your needs, your neighborhood

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EDUCATION DIRECTORY Twin Parks Montessori Central Park Montessori 1 West 91st St., NYC 10024 (212)595-2000 enroll@twinparks.org Park West Montessori School 435 Central Park West, NYC 10025 (212)678-6072 pwadmissions@twinparks.org Riverside Montessori School 202 Riverside Dr., NYC 10025 (212)665-1600 admissions@twinparks.org www.twinparks.org One School. Three campuses— Twin Parks Montessori Schools are accredited by the American Montessori Society and the Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools Education, are members of NYSAIS, the Parents League and ISAAGNY, and are affiliate schools of Columbia University. Twin Parks Montessori Schools provide nurturing, child-centered settings for children ages 3 months-6 years. The Park West location offers a 12 month progam.The schools are committed to building and fostering a community of lifelong learners using proven Montessori methodology, which has been successful for the past 100 years. While focusing on helping children master language, math and sensorial experience at age-appropriate levels, the schools simultaneously nurture the development of conscious, caring and compassionate human beings. Twin Parks Schools are among Manhattan’s most spacious preschools. Twin Parks offers rich and varied environments— from individual activity tables to open floor areas promot-

ing group interaction, from the quiet areas for independent interests to the abundance of the Schools’ glorious backyards: Riverside and Central Parks. Each of these environments invites exploration and, in total, fully meets the developmental needs of young children.

PROOF

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

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Upper Valley Preschool 103 W. 96th St. NYC 10025 Phone: (212)257-4749 Fax: (646)589-0539 info@uppervalleypreschool.org wwww.uppervalleypreschool.org The Upper Valley Preschool is structured on the principle of parents, teachers, and administrators coming together to build schedules and programs that truly cater to the needs of students age 3 months to 5 years. In the Infant and Preschool Programs, they encouraged to learn through active play and exploration in a safe, nurturing environment. UVP strives to be progressive but community-oriented in its approach to education. Using a combination of traditional and avant-garde pedagogical strategies, UVP teachers provide children with a holistic childhood experience that concentrates on citizenship building, independence strengthening, and preparation for elementary school and beyond. Watch your child’s cognitive language, social, emotional, fine and gross motor skills not just emerge during their time at UVP; but blossom as he navigates a curriculum that includes activities specifically to stimulate growth in all developmental areas. Add to this, a low student-teacher ration, a reasonable tuition, and a commitment to teacher satisfaction. Enrollment information and applications are available online. The UVP facility also offers a gymnasium space for private events and children’s birthday parties.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Seriously Art-Rageous Fun with Let’s Gogh Art NYC! The mobile art program that brings the fun to you!

Winston Preparatory (see “Special Needs”)

Programs Asphalt Green Upper East Side 555 E. 90th St. NYC 10128 (212)369-8890 www.asphaltgreen.org Battery Park City 212 North End Avenue, NYC 10282 (212)298-2900 www.asphaltgreenbpc.org Asphalt Green is dedicated to the health and fitness of all New

www.nyletsgoghart.com BIRTHDAY PARTIES that rock!

ART CLASSES, PLAYDATES plus GLITTER and GROUP EVENTS TATTOO ARTISTS, that roll! FACE PAINTERS and STORY ART! 917.704.0102

22 I parentguide News I January 2014

deon’s Nickelo Pick ts n re Pa 917.704.0102 ine Trema Dance ore Top Sc

Classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop and Acro! Ages 2 and up!

418 E. 75th St., 131 W. 72nd St.

917-279-4351

www.DancingDivasandDudes.com

parentguidenews.com

EDUCATION DIRECTORY Yorkers. From swim to gym, Asphalt Green has something for everyone in your family. Its first class campuses on the Upper East Side and the newly opened Battery Park City campus are home to Asphalt Green’s world class swim, sports and fitness programs, as well as cooking, music, dance, theater, and art downtown. Children four-months and older can take swim classes and progress from swimming basics in a warm-water moveable bottom teaching pool to becoming skilled and confident swimmers in the indoor lap pool. On land, Asphalt Green offers some of NYC’s best sports classes with expert instructors who follow the Positive Coaching Alliance method. From toddlers to the competitive teams, players of all levels and abilities achieve their best in sports, including soccer, basketball, flag football, gymnastics, and more. Asphalt Green is also a great place for mom and dad to get fit and see results in the pool and fitness center and with adult sports leagues. With Family and Passport Memberships, parents receive benefits including preferred pricing and registration for kids and adult classes as well as access to both first-class campuses. Visit www.asphaltgreen. org and www.asphaltgreenbpc.org for more information.

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where children 18 months-2 years, along with their parents/caregivers, share the joy of music and dance. Pre-Ballet classes (ages 3-6) introduce ballet in a positive and creative environment. Tap and modern classes are also offered for ages 3-6. The Pre-Professional Ballet Division, for ages 7-18, provides students every opportunity to achieve their highest potential and aspirations utilizing a structured curriculum within a nurturing environment. The faculty consists of highly experienced and renowned teachers led by associate artistic director, Darla Hoover. All classes have piano accompaniment. Admission to the Pre-Professional Division is by audition. There are two performance opportunities yearly in February and May, providing the Pre-Professional students with the opportunity to hone their performance skills. BAE offers teens and adults of all levels a full schedule of ballet, tap, jazz, Zumba, yoga and Pilates classes. The bright facility has five air-conditioned studios. The dressing rooms have showers and lockers, and there is a Capezio Dancewear Boutique on the premises.

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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Ballet Academy East 1651 3rd Ave., NYC 10128 (212)410-9140 info@baenyc.com www.baenyc.com Ballet Academy East, with more than 33 years of experience, offers excellent programs for children and adults of all ages and abilities. The youngest children start in the Petit Dancers Division

Ballet Club 328 E. 61st St., Second Floor, NYC 10065 (917)281-1030 / (212)204-6348 Fax: (917)281-1032 info@theballetclub.com www.theballetclub.com The Ballet Club is a unique program that offers professional training in a nurturing environment, as well as a foundation of life skills and intellectual stimulation. It includes the Children’s Creative Dance Club Division for ages 3-8, and the Performing Arts Pre-Professional Division for ages 7 and older. It strives to pro-

French-American School in Manhattan

We welcomeSummer children Camp who don't speak French. International in June/July 2014

Nursery Nursery thru 5th 7th grade EINY combines: • The rigor of France’s curriculum and American emphasis on independent thinking • A small sized school allowing teachers to work closer to each child • An educational environment sustained by certified teachers • An academic bilingual program with an international perspective • The introduction of a third language (Mandarin) starting in 3rd grade EINY 111 East 22nd St New York, NY 10010

646-410-2238

Admissions: clydejavois@einy.org

your needs, your neighborhood

einy.org January 2014 I parentguide News I 23

EDUCATION DIRECTORY vide the very best quality of ballet training, instilling in students a love of learning, and class size is limited to ensure individual attention. The Ballet Club has a holistic approach to training, in which students master ballet as a tool for their own creative expression, with an emphasis on healthy training for both the body and the mind. All young ballet students learn bodyspace awareness, musicality, master locomotive and non-locomotive skills, gain physical conﬁdence, and explore the use of time, space, and energy in dance. Classes in the Performing Arts Pre-Professional Division incorporate classical technique with a modern approach and emphasizes technique, creativity, choreography, and performance. For more information, and/or to register, call (917)2811030 or (212)204-6348, e-mail info@theballetclub.com, or visit www.theballetclub.com.

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Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex 23rd Street and Hudson River Park, NYC 10011 (212)336-6666 www.chelseapiers.com Chelsea Piers offers Manhattan’s best and most comprehensive sports programs for children ages 12 months-17 years. State-ofthe-art facilities, world-class coaches and a friendly staff combine to make Chelsea Piers New York’s ultimate sports destination. Weekend recreation, after-school instruction, leagues, camps and clinics are available in a wide variety of sports. The Field House at (212)336-6500 features the largest gymnastics center in NYC, equipped with in-ground trampolines and foam pits, a children’s rock climbing wall, a toddler gym, dance studios, four batting cages, two basketball courts, two indoor artificial turf playing fields

for soccer and more than 350 sports classes for all ages. The Field House is also home to CP Kids, a childcare and preschool program for children ages 3 months-5 years. Sky Rink at (212)336-6100 features twin indoor, year-round ice skating rinks and classes in ice hockey and figure skating. The Golf Club at (212)336-6400 features 52 heated, weather-protected hitting stalls on four tiers, a 200-yard hitting fairway and putting greens. Youth programs and private instruction are available at the Golf Academy. Enroll your child today! For more information on any of the Chelsea Piers youth sports programs, please visit www.chelseapiers.com. Dancing Divas and Dudes 418 E. 75th St., NYC 10021 131 W. 72nd St., NYC 10083 (917)279-4351 julie_swift2005@yahoo.com www.dancingdivasanddudes.com In July 2013, students from Dancing Divas and Dudes landed Top Score Overall in the junior competition at Tremaine Dance Conventions! If you are looking to join an inspiring and successful dance program, this is the place for you! Dancing Divas and Dudes believes that dance improves many fundamental foundations: from math (putting patterns together, counting and retaining) to giving presentations (listening to the music, smiling, remembering the steps, being aware of your peers and being in front of an audience). Students truly celebrate the art of dance at Dancing Divas and Dudes. Building on three generations of dance schools in Texas, this inspiring program shares teaching techniques and dance styles amassed during the last 90 years. Founder Julie Swift

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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

New York City’s Premier Art Studio for Children, Teens and Adults!

ArT CLASSeS s

ArTY PArTieS 1412 Second Avenue (Bet. 73rd & 74th St.) www.kidsatartnyc.com s 212-410-9780 24 I parentguide News I January 2014

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EDUCATION DIRECTORY coupled her expertise in dance with her mother and grandmother’s teaching ideas to create this unique, evolving program that is taught at preschools as well as two studios on the UWS and UES. Classes for younger children combine ballet and tap, while the older students may select ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop or acro. Company members compete at Dance Competitions. Parents say that along with learning new moves and techniques, their children gain self-esteem, body awareness and a sense of accomplishment that fosters overall learning and development. Dancers are able to remember their well-choreographed dances independently, and students gain stage presence and confidence by performing throughout the year, including at an annual recital. Visit the website for performance pictures and videos.

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The Diller-Quaile School of Music 24 E. 95th St., NYC 10128 (212)369-1484 www.diller-quaile.org The Diller-Quaile School of Music was founded in 1920 by pianists Angela Diller and Elizabeth Quaile, who believed the capacity for understanding and creating music exists in everyone— and that a music school should provide a dynamic and well-rounded experience not just for select students, but for all. Today, DillerQuaile is a thriving community music school on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, comprised of Early Childhood (music and art classes for infants-six-year-olds), Instrumental and Vocal, High School Certificate, Adult, Teacher Training, and Outreach Departments. The school’s faculty nurtures each student’s ability to play and sing with knowledge and expression, providing a foun-

dation for a lifetime of involvement in music. Curricula emanate primarily from international folk music and classical music, and the school annually enrolls 1,100 students of all ages. Throughout the year, Diller-Quaile offers Rug Concerts for young children, master classes, student recitals and faculty performances. Additionally, the School provides music outreach programs to more than 1,000 children and adults from underserved communities throughout NYC. Applications are being accepted now for new classes beginning in January 2014. Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Precollegiate Arts Schools. Call (212)369-1484 or visit www.diller-quaile.org for an application.

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EBL Coaching (see “Enrichment and Tutoring”) HiArt!

227 West 29th St., NYC 10001 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 (212)209-1552 www.hiartkids.com Now in its 16th arts-exploding year, this Best of New York arts program revs up for another fantastic Fall filled with art, art and more art– thanks to some incredibly inspired programming that insists that art doesn’t have to be made small just because kids are! This award winning, Best Arts Program for Kids (Best of New York, New York Magazine 2000) offers a spectacular array of classes especially designed for the city’s arts-savviest kids. Whether your child opts for Manga with manga stars Yali Lin, Hyeondo Park, Ashley Silva or Zoe Greenbaum; or builds ingenious creations with stellar sculptor, Mallory Breiner; or

Rutgers Community Programs

A Place to Grow

RCP is with your family from the very start, offering an atmosphere of love, creativity and fun for parents and children up to 10 years.

Winter/Spring Programs for Parents and children:

• Support Groups for Moms • Family & On My Own Playgroups • Mandarin • Art • Dance • Movement • Soccer • Musical Theater • Ready, Set, Go! morning program for 3-5 year olds • New Once Upon a Child afternoon program for 3-5 year olds: science, creative storytelling, dance, world culture & more • Free Workshops and Special Events

JUNIOR DIVISION

2014 Spring Term Enrollment FIRST STEPS & BOUNDING BOYS (ages 3-6) No audition required, but limited space is available. Please inquire at juniordivision@alvinailey.org

PRE-PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM (ages 7-17) AUDITION IN NEW YORK CITY JAN 8: Ages 7-12 at 4:30pm JAN 9: Ages 13-17 at 4:30pm JAN 16: Ages 7-12 at 4:30pm

FREE OPEN HOUSE:

Saturday, January 11 9:30am-12:30pm Parents and children can meet instructors, see our great facility, and have fun! th

Photos (Top & Bottom): Eduardo Patino, NYC

For more information and to register for an audition, visit

$25 off a winter/spring class or $100 off Ready, Set, Go! for attending the open house. RSVP required.

TheAileySchool.edu

Contact Jennifer at 212-877-8227, X212 or jmoore@rutgerschurch.org 236 West 73rd Street & Broadway (take the #1, #2, or #3 trains) www.rutgerschurch.org • www.facebook.com/rutgerscommunityprograms

or e-mail juniordivision@alvinailey.org

your needs, your neighborhood

For classes for 2-year olds visit AileyExtension.com Photo: Rosalie O’Connor

January 2014 I parentguide News I 25

EDUCATION DIRECTORY mixes media madly with bookmaking queen, Becky Brown; or paints till the cows come home with the stupendous JJ Manford; or inscribes themselves in video with internationally renowned video artist, Asya Reznikov; or writes his own comic books with the brilliant, Maggie Siegel-Berele; or plunges into the world of Opera â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;N Art with HiArt! founder and art diva extraordinaire, Cyndie Bellen-BerthĂŠzĂ¨ne; kids and parents are guaranteed to have the artiest, most inspiring art-making days of their lives. New friends, new experiences, lots of learning and tons of fun await. Offerings are available to ages 18 months-16 years. Be there or be square!

topics and course materials that reflect their worldview. Other locations are available at the International School of Brooklyn in Carroll Gardens, and at the International Academy of Arts and Science in Closter, NJ. Jodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gym 244 E. 84th St., NYC 10028 (212)772-7633 25 Hubbels Dr., Mt. Kisco, NY 10514 (914)244-8811 www.jodisgym.com Jodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gym, the leader in innovative childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gym programs, has been providing kids with the highest level of fun and fitness for 31 years! Kids run, jump, climb, swing and tumble as they build not only a foundation for gymnastics, but also all sports. In Jodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nurturing environment, kids enjoy moving, love to exercise and develop confidence. The spacious facility features two brightly colored, 5,000-square-foot loft spaces filled with all the gymnastics equipment imaginable including bars, beams, trampolines, slides, tunnels, bounce house and so much more. You will not find a more experienced, fun or attentive staff anywhere. Mommy and Me classes for children 6 months-3 years include Teeny Tumblers (music/movement), Mighty Muscle Movers (gym), Rockin Rollers (gym/music combination) and the new Jumpstart Jodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (a preschool alternative). Preschool offerings for 3-5 year olds include Tumbling Tots (one-hour gym/motor skill development) and Creative Cartwheeling Kids (two-hour combination of gym, art and music). For k-8th grade, classes available include Funtastic Gymnastics, Accelerated and

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www.parentguidenews.com â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840 Instituto Cervantes de New York 211 E. 49th St., NYC 10017 (212)308-7720, ext. 3 www.newyork.cervantes.org Instituto Cervantes is the only non-profit organization of its kind, created and endorsed by the government of Spain with the mission to promote the language and culture of Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries. It is the largest organization in the world that teaches Spanish to non-native speakers, with 70 cultural centers in more than 30 countries. A great variety of affordable Spanish language classes for all ages, including kids (3-13 years), and teens (14-17 years) programs, and cultural courses are available. Experienced teachers are highly qualified, native Spanish speakers from Latin America and Spain. At Instituto Cervantes children learn and practice Spanish through fun activities like arts and crafts, songs, dance, games and, stories. Teenage students enjoy learning Spanish through relevant

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26 I parentguide News I January 2014

parentguidenews.com

EDUCATION DIRECTORY Karma Kids Yoga 104 W. 14th St., NYC 10011 & Various Other Locations in NYC (646)638-1444 downdog@karmakidsyoga.com www.karmakidsyoga.com At Karma Kids Yoga, children practice fun-filled yoga poses and breathing exercises to promote physical strength and flexibility, concentration, focus and attention, inner strength and body awareness, confidence and self-esteem, relaxation and self-control, a feeling of well-being and respect for others, and Joffrey Ballet School love for oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self, inside and out. In a fun environment, chil434 Ave. of the Americas, NYC 10011 dren play yoga by imitating animals and nature, and by using (212)254-8520 creative expression, games, music, art and storytelling. Fun, joffrey@joffreyballetschool.com inspirational and playful classes encourage a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural www.joffreyballetschool.com thirst for knowledge with engaging songs, games, self-expresThe Joffrey Ballet School builds on childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural impulse 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax 212-447-7734 sion and stories that exercise social, sensory and motor skills to express themselves through movement. Recreational classes while increasing flexibility. Children will strengthen their bodare offered for fun and fitness as well as a graded program for TO: FAX # breathing and relaxation ies as they learn how to focus through young dancers with a serious interest in the arts. The Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s techniques. Kids sing, draw and play yoga in energy-releasing Division encompasses classes in Dance with Me (ages 2-3), and age-appropriate classes. And check out Karma Kids Yogaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Baby Ballerinas (ages 3-4), Demi Soloists (ages 4-5), Hip FROM: HopISSUE DATE: Gold Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice Award-winning CD of yoga music for chilpinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Street Jazz (ages 5-9) and many more courses. Students dren, Come Play Yoga! Classes offered are: Prenatal Yoga and develop the body strength, coordination and discipline to learn Prenatal & Baby Yoga and and/or Pilates, Yoga classical ballet. All students enjoy professional instruction PleasePilates, call orMom fax your comments OK. for Toddler (Parent & Child), Kids, Teens, GLOGA Yoga, CircusYoga, from distinguished faculty and accompanied by live music. Yoga and Free StoryTime Yoga. Private classes are also The schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s studios are equipped with sprung marley dance SIGNATURE Family OF APPROVAL: available. Special events and yoga birthday parties and Teacher floors and floor-to-ceiling mirrors. The Joffrey Ballet Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Training, too! Call the number above or visit online at www. mission is to train children ages 3-18, develop their talent and karmakidsyoga.com. Come Play Yoga! graduate outstanding young adults. Advanced Gymnastics, Totally Tumbling and Motion Evolution (fitness/ nutrition wellness). This fall, Jodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gym is proud to welcome new partner classes: Creation Station (dance), Songs for Seeds (music) and Mad Science. Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get to Jodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s? Have Jodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s To Go come to your school, camp, daycare or building! There are great perks for members, Jodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gymwear and, of course, the best birthdays ever! To join the fun, friends and fitness call, go to www.jodisgym.com. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Likeâ&#x20AC;? Jodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gym on Facebook for special promotions, pictures and information.

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

Inquire About Our Performing Arts Pre-Professional Division! Photo by 5 westkids/SpencerLum

Professional Training in a Nurturing Environment

! ! "# !$ % !& & '" ( " ! ) ! *&(! "& % (" $ + #

your needs, your neighborhood

Ballet Classes for All Ages Inquire About Summer Camps & Programs 328 East 61st Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10065

(Near the 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R & F Trains and the M15, M57, M31, M101, M102, M103, Q32, Q60 & Q101 Buses) ter/ n i W r 917-281-1030 or 212-204-6348 w fo erm! o info@theballetclub.com N T ter www.theballetclub.com egis pring

January 2014 I parentguide News I 27

EDUCATION DIRECTORY

Kids at Art ages 6 months to 9 years by capturing the critical years when 1412 Second Ave., NYC 10021 they possess their strongest capacity to absorb language and imi(212)410-9780 tate native pronunciation. During each session, children receive a wendy@kidsatartnyc.com brand-new, glossy, full-color workbook/CD, which is jam packed www.kidsatartnyc.com with original language-rich songs (and ages 3 and older get an Now in its 13th year, Kids at Art is recognized as the premier art LWFC storybook, too). Best of all, LWFC instructors are native studio for children of all ages, focusing on the basics of visual speakers. LWFC materials won six major children’s educational arts, with age-appropriate projects for each group from 2years media awards. Parents magazine named the LWFC one of “6 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 to adults— painting, drawing, sculpture, mosaics, and much Classes Worth the $.” more. Classes are limited in size so that each child receives into: FAx # dividual attention. Kids at Art Birthday Parties are also availLet’s Gogh Art, NYC able and are known to be the most fun and creative in format. (917)704-0102 At Kids at Art the process is just as important as the finished From: www.nyletsgoghart.com iSSue DAte: project. Kids at Art is also available for private art class for five Creative Art Education to ten children, one time or once a week! Summer Camp and Let’s Gogh Art is a mobile, creative arts enrichment company dePlease calland or imaginative fax your comments and/or events, oK. and Holiday Workshops are also available. During these periods the livering unique classes, workshops, 419 Park Avenue South,on New York,involved NY 10016 projects, • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 class focuses more such as mask-making, programs in single or multi-week sessions. These programs cater puppet-making, paper-mache and plaster. Please see the webto budding artists ages 2-12 years and can be scheduled for weekSigNAture oF APProvAl: to: FAx # site for schedules and more information. day afternoons, evenings, Saturdays, and vacations, in libraries, community centers, or in-class at schools to supplement the art The Language Workshop for Children curriculum. Programs are designed around a theme, technique, or From: iSSue DAte: Manhattan, Upper Eastside and Westside material, allowing children to develop an appreciation, as well as (212)396-0830 the abilities for critical thinking, self-expression, problem solving, info@thibauttechnique.com imagination, and creativity. Hands-on activities, combined with a Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. www.languageworkshopforchildren.com bit of whimsy and wackiness from the Gogh Art creativity crew, CNN called Director François Thibaut “one of a very few experts art explorers think outside of the box, making connections with SigNAture in oFteaching APProvAl: languages to small children.” Since 1973, his famous the colorful world around them. Visit the website to learn more Thibaut Technique classes, camps and preschools have introabout art classes, workshops, Family ArtFests, summer programs, duced French, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese and Italian to children and vacation/holiday programs. Don’t forget about birthday par-

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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

P ppyseed Pre-Nursery

A NON-SECTARIAN PROGRAM SERVING ALL CHILDREN SINCE 1952

Dedicated to children’s growth and learning - ages 2.3-5 Experienced, nurturing staff Specialists for music, movement, studio and gardening Large, airy classrooms; rooftop playground

The First Presbyterian Church Nursery School 12 West 12th Street, NYC 10011 (corner of Fifth Avenue) Nancy-Ellen Micco, Interim Director Visit our website at fpcns.org, or call 212-691-3432

Enrich Your Child’s day with Music, Art, Gym & Play! “Mommy & Me” Age Appropriate Classes For Babies, Toddlers & 2’s NEW! BABY CLASS BEGINNING IN JANUARY 424 West End Ave. @ 81st • 212-877-7614 poppyseedprenursery.com 28 I parentguide News I January 2014

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EDUCATION DIRECTORY ties. The Gogh Art creativity crew travels to your party location bringing party hosts, glitter tattoo artists, and more. Tailor each party to your birthday childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interests. Physique Swim School Leman Manhattan Prep (Lower School) 41 Broad St., NYC (between Exchange Pl and Beaver St) 333 E. 66th St. (between 1st and 2nd Avenue) St. Bartholomewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church 109 E. 50th St., NYC Hunter College North Building - 695 Park Avenue Mercedes Club 550 W. 54th St. (between 10th and 11th Avenue) Dunlevy Milbank Center 14-32 West 118th St. (between Lennox and 5th Ave) City College of New York Robert Marshak Science Building Convent Avenue at 138 Street, NYC Physique Swimming Summer Camp In Battery Park City, Gateway Plaza 375 South End Ave., NYC info@physiqueswimming.com www.physiqueswimming.com (212)-725-0939 Physique Swim Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Learn to Swim Program and Physique Summer Swim Camp is the perfect opportunity for those who want to learn or perfect the sport of swimming. Physiqueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s primary focus is health, mind and body development through swimming and safety around the water. With step-by-step instructions, kids will learn how to be safe, develop basic strokes, gain confidence in the water and develop efficient swimming technique in all four strokes. Different levels are available for all ages and skill levels - Beginner 1: Water Exploration, Beginner 2: Primary Skills, Advanced 1: Stroke Readiness, Advanced 2: Stroke Development, Swim Team, Prep Stroke I & Swim Team Prep 2: Stroke Proficiency, Fitness and Preparedness for Competitive Swimming, and Me & My Shadow: parent and child class from 4 months to 3 years old. Swim programs are for children of all ages and skill levels. With locations all over New York and New Jersey, you cannot miss out on this ideal opportunity. Physique Swimming Day Camp takes place in Battery Park City. Camp activities include instructional

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swim twice a day with organized pool activities. Other activities range from soccer, basketball, track and field, and arts and crafts. Find out about the best-kept secret swim school and camp in NYC. Visit the website, send an e-mail or call for more information. The Poppyseed Pre-Nursery 424 West End Ave., NYC 10024 (212)877-7614 info@poppyseedprenursery.com www.poppyseedprenursery.com Delight your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social day with music, art, gym and play at The Poppyseed Nursery, where big things are happening for little people. Small-sized, one to two-hour groups for babies, toddlers or 2s with parent or caregiver, meet two or three times a week, providing individual attention and the continuity and consistency needed for forming special friendships. The perfect bridge between the home and school experience, Poppyseed offers ageappropriate activities which foster self assurance and creativity. Self-expression through singing and dancing with musical instruments, accompanied by the piano cultivate sensitivity to harmony and rhythm. Children explore the sensory world of art with pleasure and spontaneity, developing imagination and creativity through brush and finger painting, collage-making, clay and playdough, water play and cooking. Special mini-gym equipped with Magic Mountain, trampoline, ball pit, balance beam, slide, seesaw and parachute offers a healthy environment for developing self confidence. A professional, highly-educated staff helps children learn at their own pace in a perfect setting for each childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth. Please call for more information.

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

BAE Summerdance

Spring Mini-Session .BSDI t (JSMT "HFT BALLET ACADEMY EAST

Pre-Professional Ballet Division Ages 7-18 Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Scholarship Program

Pre-Ballet, Tap and Modern Ages 3-6

Petit Dancers

Ages 18 months - 2 years All Levels - Start Anytime Ballet, Tap, Zumba, Jazz, Modern, Pilates and Yoga

Rosalie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

Adult Open Classes

1651 Third Avenue New York, NY 10128 t JOGP!CBFOZD DPN www.baenyc.com

your needs, your neighborhood

January 2014 I parentguide News I 29

EDUCATION DIRECTORY

Rutgers Community Programs 236 W. 73rd St., NYC 10023 www.rutgerschurch.org www.facebook.com/rutgerscommunityprograms (212)877-8227, ext. 212 jmoore@rutgerschurch.org Great classes for kids 1-10 years. Try Once Upon a Child, a new afternoon program for kids ages 3-5 with multi-disciplinary classes in science and building; dramatic play, dance and art; and “world travel” Likethrough games, songs, music, and more. Other programs: the Ready, Set, Go! morning program for kids aged 3-5; Family and On My Own www.facebook.com/parentguidenews playgroups; Mothers’ Support Groups; Mandarin; art; movement; dance; soccer; and musical theater. Free Open House on January 11, 9:30am-12:30pm; RSVP required. Click the Community Programs button on the web site or follow them on Facebook.

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Sci-Tech Kids 1841 Broadway, Suite 712A, NYC 10023 Afterschool Program: NY Junior League, All Souls Church and Westside location www.sci-techkids.com SciTech Kids, an innovative science and technology provider, sparks a child’s innate curiosity and creativity through rich, hands-on, captivating experiences that bring science to life. Designed for children ages 3-15, SciTech Kids inspires kids to think like scientists, inventors and innovators. SciTech Kids turn the idea of learning science on its head. Kids learn scientific concepts by “doing science” that

is connected to everyday life. With activities ranging from composting, to launching rockets, to cool chemical reactions, to tinkering with electronic circuits, SciTech Kids are taught the fundamentals of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). “Our students never look at science the same way again,” says Kim Magloire, President of SciTech Kids “This winter, we have integrated augmented reality and 3D printing into our curriculum. SciTech Kids has expand its offerings to include weekend classes. SciTech Kids classes are held at the NY Junior League at 130 East 80th St., All Souls Church at 1157 Lexington Ave., and a westside location.

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Enrichment and Tutoring Marcia Schlafmitz (347)735-0968 mjschelsea@gmail.com Dr. Marcia Schlafmitz is an educator who has recently retired after 35 years of teaching. She has specialized in working www.facebook.com/parentguidenews with students who have had difficulty learning mathematical concepts at many levels. Her academic background includes an MS in science education and a PhD in computer science. She draws on the insights of cognitive science in her work with students. For example, the work of Dr. James Zull, in his The Art of Changing the Brain: Enriching teaching by exploring the biology of learning, informs her work. Dr. Schlafmitz also draws on the work of the highly experienced tutor Dr. James Mendelsohn as presented in his book, A Parent’s Guide to Tutors and Tutoring: How to Support the Unique Needs of

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Your Child. “[Parents] should look for tutors who build their children’s ability to learn independently,” so that they can apply the skills developed by tutoring to learning throughout their lives. Dr. Schlafmitz focuses on listening carefully to each student in order to develop an understanding of that student’s individual needs. She takes pride in the positive feedback she has received from many students as they came to understand mathematical concepts they had not previously understood.

EBL Coaching 17 East 89th St., NYC 10028 Or At Home (212)249-0147 info@eblcoaching.com www.eblcoaching.com 419 Park Avenuethe South,direction New York, NYof10016 212-213-8840 212-447-7734 Under Dr. • Emily Levy,• Fax EBL Coaching offers one-one-one specialized tutoring for students in grades pre-k to 12 with specific o: FAx # learning needs. They used research-based, multi-sensory strategies, including the Orton Gillingham technique, to develop reading, writrom: iSSue DAte: ing, reading comprehension, math, organization and study skills. They also offer three-week intensive academic summer programs the comments elementary and/or and middle Please call or faxatyour oK. school/ high school levels. Students are initially assessed by the director, Dr. Levy, and an individualized instructional plan igNAture oF is APProvAl: created. Sessions can be held at the home or at EBL Coaching’s Upper East Side learning center. Specialized tutorial programs for students with dyslexia and learning disabilities are available.

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EDUCATION DIRECTORY Special Needs Winston Preparatory 126 W. 17th St., NYC 10011 (646)638-2705 mbramlett@winstonprep.edu; mrodriguez@winstonprep.edu www.winstonprep.edu Winston Prep was founded more than 30 years ago as the first high school in New York City devoted specifically to students with learning disabilities. Winston provides a highly individualized, responsive setting for a smart and creative community of students who have been diagnosed with language-based learning disorders, nonverbal learning disabilities, and executive functioning difficulties. Each student’s program is designed to challenge strengths while remediating areas of need, including but not limited to the essentials of reading, writing, mathematics, organization, and study skills. Each individualized educational program is based upon a diagnostic understanding of the dynamic learning profile that evolves as the student progresses and matures. Small classes of 8-12 students help to facilitate the individualization of course work. Students receive daily one-on-one instruction, Focus, which is designed to serve as the diagnostic, instructional, and mentoring centerpiece. P.E., art, and music alternate daily, and a variety of enrichment courses are offered after school including drama and interscholastic athletic programs. Graduates are enrolled in four- and two-year colleges as well as post-graduate transition programs. For more information, contact Michelle Bramlett, director of admissions at (646)638-2705, ext. 634; or Medry Rodriguez, admissions assistant (646)638-2705, ext. 619.

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January 2014 I parentguide News I 31

MuscleWork

by Corey W. Stone, MS, OTR/L

Constraint-induced movement therapy for neuromotor disorders.

b b

There are many treatment options available for children with neuromotor disorders, but the trick is to find the right combination for your child. Common treatments include bilateral integration that focuses on the use of both hands, therapeutic horseback riding, sensory integration that seeks to regulate sensory issues, traditional occupational and physical therapy, and constraint-induced movement therapy. In order to best choose what will most benefit your child, you first have to determine your child’s individual strengths, what goals you have for your child, and your child’s goals and aspirations. Capitalizing on the strengths of your child and his goals is the key to determining the most successful course of treatment. A form of therapy that has really taken off in recent years for children with varying neuromotor disorders is constraint-induced movement therapy. The main goal of constraint-induced movement therapy is to show individuals with varying neuromotor disorders, who primarily experience having one arm more affected than the other (hemiplegia/ hemiparesis), that they can do many things they never thought possible. In the clinic where I’m an occupational therapist, we work with children for four weeks at a time, six hours a day, five days a week in a

For additional information about constraint-induced movement therapy and neuromotor disorders, take a look at these resources:

hat do you do when the doctor tells you your child has had a stroke, endured a brain injury, has hemiplegia, or is experiencing something called a neuromotor disorder? You “Google it,” right? Because none of it makes sense at the time, what else is there to do? What do you do next? What is the right course of action, and what are the therapies to try? Neuromotor disorders are very complex, and they are unique to each person, which makes each child’s road different. Neuromotor disorders are conditions that affect how the brain sends signals through your nerves to your muscles. Typically, children with neuromotor disorders have one side of the body that is more affected than the other. The condition can manifest through a ﬂoppy or ﬂaccid appearance or a tight or overly contracted appearance with a lot of muscle tone. Overall, the brain is having difficulty telling each muscle how to properly move for a variety of different reasons. Some children are born with a neuromotor disorder secondary to complications during the pregnancy or at birth, and some children acquire a neuromotor disorder secondary to an accident or illness.

UAB Pediatric Neuromotor Clinic at www.uab.edu/civitansparks/pediatric-neuromotor International Alliance for Pediatric Stroke at www.iapediatricstroke.org Children’s Hemiplegia and Stroke Association at www.chasa.org

32 I parentguide News I January 2014

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home-like environment. Each child is fitted with a cast that is placed on the functional arm/ hand. This gives the child time to strengthen the individual muscles of the less functional arm/hand without the distraction of the functional and more dominant side taking over like it usually does. After intensive work with the affected upper extremity through play and functional activities, children are given time for bilateral work (using both hands) based on their individual goals. The goal is to give each hand a task to achieve in everyday activities, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s made more likely by repetition and consistency. For small children, the goal could simply be dressing themselves or tying their shoes with two hands. For a teenager, the goal could be learning the simple, two-handed functions of a job she hopes to gain, or putting her hair in a ponytail. Living one handed in a two-handed world can be very challenging for children, and therapists aim to facilitate their development in order for them to reach their full potential. Using two hands can be time consuming for some individuals with neuromotor disorders, but if they start early with the proper interventions, they can find lasting rewards. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t underestimate your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s abilities until you have given them a fair chance. We never know what our bodies, and even ourselves, are capable of until we push past what we already know.

Corey W. Stone, MS, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist for a pediatric constraint-induced therapy clinic in Birmingham, Alabama. She is a graduate from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services. She holds a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. For more information on pediatric CIMT, visit the UAB Pediatric Neuromotor Clinic at www.uab.edu/civitansparks/ pediatric-neuromotor or call (205)975-0466.

your needs, your neighborhood

January 2014 I parentguide News I 33

Why

Theater?

The positives of performance.

by Marcus Ticotin My family has been going to and involved in the theater since my siblings and I were kids way back in the ‘60s. We didn’t have much, but when we went to the theater, everything seemed possible! People spontaneously burst into song and dance at the oddest moments. Characters appeared to fly, families seemed to love playing instruments together, and gangs seemed to prefer athletic dancing to actual fighting. Theater opens the eyes, swells the heart, engages the mind, and brings people of all backgrounds together. It offers tons of enrichment to children who become involved in its creative productions and programs. The theater program in which I was enrolled as a child taught singing, dancing, and acting — all skills I still use in the productions I create to entertain today’s children. When you introduce your children to the theater, as audience members or program participants, you’re opening them up to a world of possibility. Kids who become involved in plays and musicals gain many new opportunities to learn, grow, and discover. They can develop selfconfidence and successfully interact with like-minded peers who appreciate what others may perceive as eccentricities. Children who have trouble focusing learn to hone in on daily and long-term

goals, such as memorizing a few lines a day to eventually play a full-blown character or learning one step at a time for a complex dance number. There are chances for shy kids to become fierce leaders in various projects, whether they involve stage lighting or painting elaborate background sets. Those who lack self-confidence can discover their niche and be part of a team as they develop their social skills. Even if all they do is participate in the chorus, play an instrument off stage, or simply help to move sets, many kids still feel they’re an important part of something larger. They’re included, embraced, and praised for their participation in important roles. Theater programs come in the form of weekend workshops, summer camps, and after-school activities, so it’s easy to find one in your area that fits your family’s schedule. No matter what brings a child to a show or a theater program, he’ll get the chance to be creative and express himself in a positive way. So, take a child to the theater, and let him see the wonder, possibility, and hope. Then, try getting him into a program where he can shine. Watch him take that shine with him for the rest of his life — through school, relationships, and work — making each experience a little better than it might have been without.

Marcus Ticotin is the writer, director, and producer of Freaky Pets Live, an exciting show for kids that’s full of nonstop dance, audience participation, comedy, music, and singing. For more information and a tour schedule, visit www.freakypets.com. 34 I parentguide News I January 2014

MB 1/14

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

Continued on page 37.

your needs, your neighborhood

January 2014 I parentguide News I 35

Q & A with a

by Samantha Chan

TV Mogul

Leader in children’s programming Marilyn Olin finds her true calling in print.

ith a fascination and appreciation for the minds of children, Marilyn Olin created programs like Alex and Annie in 1978 and continued her work as the Vice President of Children’s Programming at ABC Network until her departure in 1991. Since then, Olin and her husband have indulged in their passion for world travel, splitting time between New York and Paris. To pursue another lifelong love, Olin published her first book Mom, Mac & Cheese, Please! (Sky Pony Press) in October 2013.

Q: What was the appeal of child-adolescent entertainment for you?

A: I think you have to go back to when you were a child and ask,

‘What is it that I love doing?’ I think more people should do that if they can rather than just growing up and going to a job. In fourth grade, I was writing. And, at an exhibit of Picasso, [the audio tour mentioned] something that really stuck in my mind, and I loved it. Picasso said: ‘I really started to paint well when, again, I started to paint like a child.’ And I love that because we put constraints on children with what’s right, what’s wrong; but I adore their mind. They are in the here and now so much more than we are. I think if we can retain some of that, I think it’s great. I’ve always loved children’s projects. I’ve always thought very child-like.

Emmys given one year — this was the soap operas, the game shows, and the talk shows, plus children’s programming. So that was fun, too!

Q: What was it like to leave that position? A: I loved the job. But, you know, it was a different life. I left there when [my husband and I] started living in Paris. It was time for another chapter in my life. We both love travel. We’ve been to Cambodia, Laos, Africa, India. We rented an apartment here [in Paris] for one year, about 22 years ago. But we keep going back and forth. It’s a great education, it really is, to travel. I think it’s the best education in the world. You get to meet different people, experience different cultures, and I think that’s very stimulating for creativity. And now I’m doing another chapter with the children’s books!

Q: How did you come to write Mom, Mac & Cheese, Please!? A: I wasn’t intending to, then there was a little boy in a restaurant.

He was eating fried feet. I made up a poem: ‘Can you believe I’m in a fog because you’re eating the French-fried feet of a frog?’ And the boy kept repeating it, and that’s where I started writing the book. I saw that children love the repetition and the rhyming. Then I found a terrific illustrator, and we’re having just such a great time.

A: Getting great ratings was very memorable. When I was there, you

Q: What advice would you give to someone who has an

What are some of the most memorable moments from your time in television? would get your ratings in every week and see how you did against the other networks. Now, there are so many channels; but at the time, there was CBS, ABC, and NBC. That was very exciting to see. I had some of the highest awards in children’s programming. On Schoolhouse Rock, Lynn Ahrens was a dear friend of mine. In fact, at one point, she and I had a production company together, and we produced things, including Alex and Annie. It was so much fun working with her. The after-school specials were wonderful because I would get letters in from parents saying how wonderful they were and how it taught them, their teenagers, and pre-teenagers so much about life. There was a psychologist who would read the letters that kids sent in [to Alex and Annie]. She taught me a lot about kids, too. At the Daytime Emmys, my children’s department won 16 out of 28 36 I parentguide News I January 2014

idea for a children’s book?

A: First, you have to sit down and write it, not just think about it.

Don’t think, just do! That’s one of my ideas in life. If it’s something that you want to do, just make time and do it. The other thing is, don’t think about rejection. That’s the hardest thing. You have to have faith in yourself. Look up some publishers that will take unsolicited books. But there are also ways to do it on the Internet if you want. And a lot of people do that, too. Some people go through an agent, but that’s very hard. First, just write the book. The thing is, as in television, you have to find people who think the way you do. Find Mom, Mac & Cheese, Please! on Amazon.com. Read more of the Marilyn Olin interview online at www.parentguidenews.com. Samantha Chan is the associate editor. parentguidenews.com

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your needs, your neighborhood

January 2014 I parentguide News I 37

New Year,

New You

by Karen Amster-Young

Forget about resolutions!

t’s the New Year. Chances are you will be confronted with endless articles and news reports about making resolutions. You may even be thinking about your own resolutions for the coming year and that it is time for a “new you.” According to a January 2013 article at Forbes.com, self-improvement, or at least the desire for it, is a shared American hobby. It’s why so many of us — some estimates say more than 40 percent of Americans — make New Year’s resolutions. Unfortunately, only a tiny fraction of us keep our resolutions. In fact, only 8 percent of people achieve their New Year’s goals, says a Scranton University study. There are many reasons experts say we don’t achieve our resolutions, one being that the goals set are too overwhelming. “Essentially, shooting for the moon can be so psychologically daunting, you end up failing to launch in the first place,” says Forbes contributor Dan Diamond. So, what can you do to avoid feeling disappointed by the middle of January? A few years ago I was in a rut. A good friend and I were feeling “stuck” and vowed to try something new or different every week for a year and blog about it at www.the52weeks.com. It was hard, but we forged ahead. We took dance lessons, went rock climbing, test drove sports cars, learned how to box, explored Kabbalah, and even ate blueberries every day for a week — all in an effort to break out of our comfort zones and shake things up. It wasn’t about writing down a list of resolutions; it was more about doing new things and growing. We’re not experts but we were onto something and perhaps felt successful because we did not allow the pressure associated with New Year’s resolutions and setting unattainable goals to overwhelm us. As many experts agree, we did two things that increase your chances of success: we wrote down the things we wanted to try and we were accountable to one another. So despite the disturbingly low percentage of people that actually have resolution success, setting goals for self-improvement is, in fact, a good thing and The 52 Weeks approach is an alternative that just may work better. Make a list that includes a wide variety of things you want to try or tackle. Don’t even think of them as resolutions. Your “52” to-do list can include small and large things you want to experience or change. Then, slowly cross each of them off. “Remember, it is not the extent of the change that matters, but rather the act of recognizing that lifestyle

change is important and working toward it, one step at a time,” says psychologist Lynn Bufka. As someone who embarked on this project a few years ago, I can tell you that by not calling them “resolutions” and allowing yourself to take baby steps and even fail at times, you are more likely to want to go to your list throughout the year and check them off. So get started on making changes toward a new you for the coming year; just don’t call them resolutions!

Tips for your January jump-start: • Learn something new. Just the simple act of doing something new or different brightens your mood, changes your perspective and takes you beyond your comfort zone! • Face a fear, one step at a time. It’s often hard to go cold turkey to quit a life-long habit. Or maybe you keep avoiding something. Even trying new things can be scary. Vow to take one baby step – any step – toward tackling a fear. If you cross off steps along the way, you may just reach your end goal. • If you’re bored, you’re boring. Try a new restaurant, get out of your zip code, walk through a museum. Just keep busy. One thing leads to another. Your dance class could lead to a new business contact, or you may meet your new best friend on a museum tour. • Move. Exercise to reduce stress and you just may change your body along the way. Try a new class or something you never did before. Boxing, Pilates, yoga, tennis, running were all part of The 52 Weeks experimeny. We didn’t like everything we tried, but simply trying something new made us feel better. • Smile more. The physical act can trick your brain’s neurotransmitters into thinking you’re happy! It works! Really. • Give back. The 52 Weeks consulted with a lot of great experts. One study shared confirms what we already instinctively knew: There is a significant connection between good health and volunteering. Find a cause about which you’re passionate, and give back — even for an hour, a week, or a month. In the end, it’s just about starting somewhere and getting going. Create a “52” list and forget about resolutions! Happy New Year!

Karen Amster-Young and Pam Godwin are the co-authors of The 52 Weeks: Two Women and Their Quest to Get Unstuck, with Stories and Ideas to Jumpstart Your Year of Discovery (Skyhorse Publishing). Download a 52 list template at www.the52weeks.com. The book is available at www.barnesandnoble.com and in stores everywhere. 38 I parentguide News I January 2014

parentguidenews.com

By Jordan Brueckner

Cherished Memories

Get out those photo albums and put your artistic skills to the test! Crate Paper’s new FleaMarket Collection is perfect for crafty, stylish moms. The elegant patterns and feminine graphics in this set will help you create a unique scrapbook to be cherished by your family forever. The collection includes patterned papers, vellum, gorgeous fabric frames, glitter, bows, and more. Don’t your pictures gather dust, visit www.cratepaper.com and share your memories today!

sweats. Cool-jams caters to women of all shapes and sizes and offers an abundance of style options to make nursing a more enjoyable experience. Get dressed for comfort at www.cool-jams.com.

Beauty Giveaway!

Attention all fresh faces of the world, PARENTGUIDE News is offering a gift card giveaway to Whole Foods Market. Try out new beauty products like the Mineral Fusion BB Cream and Mongo Kiss Lip Balm. Fulfill your New Year’s resolution for better body care today, and log onto win.parentguidenews.com for a chance to win the card.

PROOF

wristbands quell your unsettling stomach and bring relief to your daily routine. The bands are reusable, waterproof, adjustable, and available in six different designs at www.psibands.com.

Do-it-Yourself

A lot happens to our bodies with age, but nowhere is the change more noticeable then in your skin. Start reversing the aging process on your skin with PMD’s Microdermabrasion. The powerful vacuum combined with aluminum oxide crystals stimulates blood flow, allowing for deeper and younger skin to be revealed. Reverse acne scars and exfoliate your skin by visiting www.personalmicroderm.com.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Nurse in Comfort

Waking up in the middle of the night to nurse an infant can be a struggle. The new sleepwear from Cool-jams comprises microfiber that allows for the absorption of moisture from postpartum night

Breathe a Psi of Relief

Do you suffer from morning sickness or travel nausea? Thanks to Psi Bands, you can fight the purge in style! These drug-free, acupressure

Jordan Brueckner is the editorial intern.

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January 2014 I parentguide News I 39

Health Sleep Better

Do you suffer from aches and pains, headaches, or insomnia? The Perfect Pillow is designed to alleviate these symptoms by optimizing support of the head, neck, and spine while allowing the body to remain cool during the night. The Proper Pillow is optimal for an athlete, an everyday traveler, or a busy mom. Get a better night’s sleep through www.properpillow.com.

Out in the Cold

The winter brings days full of snow and sleigh rides for youngsters, but it also brings nights full of cough and cold symptoms. The Vicks Starry Night Humidiﬁer regulates air at a comfortable humidity to temporarily relieve your child’s nasal and chest congestion. It’s available in several colors at Babies “R” Us and Walgreens.

Easy Degrees

Say, “Hello!” to the accurate and non-invasive way for determining the body’s temperature with the Braun Forehead Thermometer. The new design allows you to measure temperature over the forehead skin and provides more accurate results. The Braun Forehead Thermometer works with infants, children, and adults and can be purchased at Rite Aid.

Sleep in Peace

Owlet Baby Care has revolutionized the infant care industry with the creation of the Owlet Vitals Monitor. This smart sock device has the capability to track and transfer an infant’s vital signs to your smartphone. This foot-based, wearable technology reads the infant’s heart rate, sleep position, skin temperature, and oxygen levels. To track your infant’s safety visit www.owletcare.com and purchase the Owlet Vitals Monitor.

Sleep the American Way

by Jordan Brueckner

Delicious Drinking

Protect your infant from heavy metals and pharmaceuticals in tap water by switching over to the PUR Baby Faucet Water Filter. This helps to eliminate 61 contaminants found in tap water, including chlorine, lead, and microbial cysts. PUR Baby is also valuable because it costs less than bottled water. For more details, visit www.purwater.com.

Post-Partum Recovery

The Band Specialist has created a nine-month plan for new moms to get them physically and mentally into shape. Cinch Essentials and Cirqulate Active have been worn by celebrities such as Julie Moran, Kyle Richards, and Nancy O’Dell. The Cinch Essentials collection items have a hidden waist compression that is built into the garment. As the post-pregnancy woman shrinks in size, so does the band. The Cirqulate Active collection includes Power Mesh and Breezy Top linings to encourage women to get active but remain comfortable. Start shopping today at www.thebandspecilaist.com.

The Smart Snack Alternative

Are you searching for a healthy snack to suppress hunger between meals? The new line of food by Veggie Patch offers several options to curb cravings. The Spinach Nuggets and Broccoli Bites are excellent go-to snacks from Veggie Patch that are made with real vegetables. Head to www.veggiepatch.com to check out new recipes and vegetable creations.

Kitchen Must Have

Are you looking for an easy and clean way to prepare, store, and transport food? Then the Poppy Lid is the perfect choice for you. The lid creates a vacuum seal that adjusts to any smooth-rimmed bowl to maintain freshness and avoid spills. Since it is microwave- and oven-safe up to 425 degrees, the Poppy Lid is an easy replacement for aluminum foil and plastic wrap. To purchase the Poppy Lid, visit www.productswithstyle.com.

Novosbed is a memory foam mattress that provides superior quality and comfort for restful nights. Made in the United States, Novosbed incorporates Novosflow Airflow Technology to provide excellent air circulation, which may help alleviate back pain. To get free shipping and learn more about this product, visit www.novosbed.com.

Go to www.parentguidenews.com for a chance to win these great products! 40 I parentguide News I January 2014

Be Kind to Your Hands

Keep your digits happy with a foam-based hand sanitizer that is a proven alternative to alcoholbased hand sanitizers. Since safeHands is 100percent alcohol free, there are no undesirable side affects such as dry, ﬂaky, or irritated skin. This nontoxic hand sanitizer kills 99.99 percent of germs and is available at www.safehands.com. Jordan Brueckner is the editorial intern. parentguidenews.com

Travel

by Jordan Brueckner

stoneware mug is reusable and dishwasher safe. for a day full of ski and snowboarding adventures! Visit www.redcupliving.com and explore the This unique and family-friendly package includes Are you tired of your closet being occupied wide array of products for all occasions. round-trip transportation, all mountain lift passes, by bulky, oversized luggage? Give the Zipand rental of skis or a snowboard. Whether you Sak a try! Created by award-winning Biaggi, are a pro or a beginner, there is a package to fit the ZipSak is a portable bag equipped with Disney Distraction your needs. Let your winter fun begin today by multi-directional spinner wheels for effortless Keeping your child occupied while driving can checking out www.newyorksightseeing.com and mobility. Each bag condenses for easy storage be a daunting task. Get some help with Disneywww.citysightsny.com. on a shelf, under the bed, and even in a drawer. themed, developmental activity toys! Celebrated Shrink some of the baggage characters like Mickey, Minnie, Tigger, and Pooh in your life and stop by offer the perfect distraction for your tot while you Keep Your Power Handy www.biaggi.com or the concentrate on the road. The toys provide children With Eton’s Boost 8400 and 4200 compact batContainer Store. with exciting experiences full of color, movement, tery packs, you never have to dread losing power and sound. Before you head out on your next road again. The pocket-sized chargers are perfect for trip, make sure to visit www.amazon.com and parents on the go. They’re adaptable for most purchase a Disney activity toy! smart phones, tablets, and USB devices. Never miss an important work call, panic while traveling, or be stranded in an emergency without your cell Cafe Americano Winter Escape phone. The Boost 8400 and 4200 battery packs are Modeled after the iconic red party cup, the Now that winter is in full swing, it gives your available for purchase at www.etoncorp.com. Red Cup Living Travel Coffee Cup is for the family the perfect excuse to plan a snowy excurcarefree. The travel coffee cup is perfect for holi- sion. Gray Line New York and CitySights NY are days, family reunions, and cold winter morn- providing convenient transportation to and from ings. Made in the United States, the 12-ounce, Windham Mountain Resort and Hunter Mountain

Shrink the Baggage

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Proof

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Go to www.parentguidenews.com for a chance to win these great prizes!

MB 1/13

THE POCONOS’ FAVORITE FAMILY SKI RESORT

Jordan Brueckner is the editorial intern.

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January 2014 I parentguide News I 41

Update

by Jordan Brueckner

Healthy Home

Say goodbye to dirt and grime with the new Dyson Hard DC 56. It combines the suction power of a traditional vacuum with the wet wipe of a mop to create one unique machine. The product comes fully equipped with a hygienic disposal bin and extra tools. The cordless feature and convenient docking station provide parents with an easy cleaning experience. Upgrade to the dual power of the Dyson Hard at www.dyson.com.

sible for you to easily carry other essentials like keys, credit cards, and money, too. Choose to be smart while you’re on the go and purchase the Armpocket at www.armpocket.com.

Lighten the Load

No longer carry the weight of the world on your shoulders thanks to the new Agility Stretch Carrier from JJ Cole Collections. This simple and comfortable device evenly distributes your baby’s weight to relieve back and shoulder stress. Its stretch fabric allows for the secure fit of a baby ranging from 8 to Carry Confidence 35 pounds. The carrier is available in multiple Are you tired of constantly misplacing and even colors and conforms to several different losing your everyday valuables? Rest easier, busy positions for personal preference. Learn more moms and dads: Here to help is the Armpocket! at www.jjcolecollections.com/agility. The comfortable armband is available in several sizes to cater to most smart phones, Vanquish Odors iPods, and tablets. Its multiple Say goodbye to smelly diaper scents in your compartments make it pos- baby’s room with the new 360 Sealer Diaper

PROOF

Disposal System from Tommee Tippee. This innovative system successfully seals each dirty diaper all the way around in antimicrobial film, locking in odor and preventing nasty smells. Each pail holds as many as 30 diapers. It’s time to purchase the 360 Sealer Diaper Disposal System, available exclusively at Babies “R” Us and www.babiesrus.com.

PROOF

Children and Conflict

From the bestselling author of the Hunger Games series comes an autobiographical picture book entitled Year of the Jungle (Scholastic). Geared toward a younger audience, the book follows protagonist Suzy and her struggles during the Vietnam War era. The story line is derived from author Suzanne Collins’s own experiences and memories. In a present time of war, Year of the Jungle may help your child understand the effects of enmity without fright. Pick up the tome at Barnes and Noble.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

0 0 1 $ n i W

our Y d r a w o T rty! a P y a d h t Bir t x e N s ’ d l i Ch Calling All May 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 May. To enter, go to www.parentguidenews.com and click on the Birthday Blowout Contest box for details. The winner receives a $100 gift certificate to spend toward a chosen party place or entertainer for the ultimate birthday bash.

Save BIG at www.parentguidenews.com

Turn your child’s special day into something spectacular. 42 I parentguide News I January 2014

parentguidenews.com

Update Zip it!

Are you and your child enduring sleepless nights during the transition out of swaddling? The Zipadee-Zip from Sleeping Baby weans your baby off the swaddling process with ease and returns him to a good night’s sleep. Designed for ultimate comfort, it’s also perfect for a child suffering from eczema because it prevents him from scratching his face. Visit www. zipadeezip.com for purchasing information.

available in neutral, multiples, boy, and girl designs. Welcome any newborn baby in style and In today’s interconnected include all of your favorite gifts, like aden+anais world, it is more important swaddles. This collection of luxury goods is sure than ever that your child to please and spice up any room décor. For item possesses the tools for success, especially a information, visit www.bellini.com. healthy grasp on language. Early Lingo is a playful and academic DVD collection for children ages 6 months to 9 years. The box set uses music, Host with the Most colors, animation, and repetition to teach more Parents, when it’s your turn than 450 words and phrases and provide your for a play date, impress child with concrete roots in Spanish, French, your guests with the Boxxle Italian, German, and Mandarin. Jumpstart your three-liter premium wine dispenser. This stainless child’s education at www.earlylingo.com. steel, portable device easily dispenses any separately Congratulate in Style purchased boxed wine. Based in New York City, Bellini is notorious for Its chic and sturdy design elaborate bedding and makes it compatible with all surroundings. The furniture collections, Boxxle wine dispenser may be purchased at and it now offers gift www.boxxle.com. baskets. The Bellini Baby Basket CollecJordan Brueckner is the editorial intern. tion is handcrafted and

Global Lingo

Proof

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Make Math Fun

©BMP

Interactive education is proven to increase recollection and retention in children. My First Numbers and Shapes Math Ball from Exploracise helps tots as young as age 1 to learn to count. It also ties in shapes and includes a Spanish bilingual feature to further advance your child’s enrichment. Get your child ahead of the curve by visiting www.exploracise.com.

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January 2014 I parentguide News I 43

Suffolk

SEPTEMBER 2010 JANUARY 2014

Nassau Manhattan

January 9: Upper Valley Preschool, 103 W. 96th St., (212)257-4749, info@uppervalleypreschool.com, 6:30-8pm.

Open Houses

January 11: Rutgers Presbyterian Church Body and Spirit Program, Rutgers Presbyterian Church, 236 W. 73rd St. and Broadway, (212)877 8227, ext. 212, jmoore@rutgerschurch. org, www.rutgerschurch.com, 9:30am. RSVP required.

ProoF

Queens

January 7 and 14: Winston Preparatory, 126 W. 17th419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 January 12: Asphalt Green, 211 North End Ave., St., (646)638-2705, mbramlett@winstonprep.edu; mr(212)298-2980 ext. 2978, campsagbpc@asphaltgreen. odriguez@winstonprep.edu, www.winstonprep.edu,to: 6FAx # org, asphaltgreenbpc.org/camp, 11:30am-1:30pm. 8pm, and 9:15-11:15am, respectively.

Westchester

From: January 8: Bilingual Buds, 175 Riverside Boulevard, (212)787-8088, www.bilingualbuds.com, 9:30am. RSVP on website.

iSSueJoseph, DAte: 111 Washington January 14: Academy of St. Place, (212)243-5420, info@aosj.us, www.academyofsaintjoseph.org, 9-10am. Please call or fax your comments and/or oK.

January 15: Twin Parks Montessori: Riverside MonJanuary 9: Twin Parks Montessori: Park West MonSigNAture oF APProvAl: tessori School, 202 Riverside Dr., (212)665-1600, adtessori School, 435 Central Park West, (212)678-6072, missions@twinparks.org, www.twinparks.org, 9:30am. pwadmissions@twinparks.org, www.twinparks.org, RSVP Required. 6:15pm. RSVP required.

SEPTEMBER 2010

, what s happening

44 I parentguide News I January 2014

SEPTEMBER 2010

parentguidenews.com

January 20: Deerkill Day Camp, 54 Wilder Road, Suffern, (845)354-1466, directors@deerkilldaycamp.com, www.deerkilldaycamp.com.

performance where no audience member is more than 50feet from the ringside. Get your tickets now for Luminocity online or by calling the box office.

January 28: Friends Seminary, 222 E. 16th St., (212) 979-5035, ext. 152, rhoffmann@friendsseminary.org, www.friendsseminary.org, 5-7pm.

January 4: Lunch Money and Belle et Bête Present: Planet Hopping, Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, (212)864-5400, www.symphonyspace.org. Using original live music and various puppetry techniques, including traditional marionettes and rod puppets, live video feed projections and sand drawing, Planet Hopping is the story of a young pilot and her robot sidekick as they travel Through January 4: Cirkopolis, Skirball Center for the through the solar system. Planet Hopping takes the audiPerforming Arts, 566 LaGuardia Place, (212)352-3101, ence on a rocket ship voyage from earth to the stars, exwww.nyuskirball.org. Montreal-based troupe Cirque ploring the mysteries of the planets and the importance of Eloize hit the Big Apple for a special holiday run of their friendship and family. The show mixes elements of sci-fi w.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com 212-213-8840 acclaimed show, which features original music, 3D proand intergalactic rock and roll with•real lessons about our jections, circus arts, theater, and dance set in an exaggersolar system. 11am. ated urban landscape that city kids ages 5 and older can appreciate. Times vary. January 5: I Giullari di Piazza, Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave., www.theaterforthenewcity.net. The reThrough January 12: Luminocity, Big Apple Circus, nowned Southern Italian music/theater/dance company, Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center, (888)541-3750, www. presents their traditional Southern Italian “La Cantata dei bigapplecircus.org. To celebrate the show’s 36th Season, Pastori.” The play is set during Mary and Joseph’s journey to the Big Apple Circus brings all of the vivacity and velocBethlehem, during which the Devil has dispatched demons ity of New York City to it’s newest show: Luminocity. to stop the birth of Jesus. The holy couple experiences funny, NYC’s favorite one-ring circus brings back the high enoutrageous, and dangerous adventures before they finally ergy and excitement of a big circus to an intimate, one-act reach Bethlehem and good triumphs over evil! 5pm.

January 1 - 7

Proof

THE RHYTHM OF NEW YORK

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*Select performances only. Subject to availability. 4 tickets or more at $37.50 each (reg. $69.95).

January 2014 I parentguide News I 45

January 8 - 14

JANUARY 2014 SEPTEMBER 2010 Beginning January 7: New Programs Once Upon a Child Program Session, Rutgers Community Programs, Rutgers Presbyterian Church, 236 W. 73rd St. and Broadway, (212)877 8227, ext. 212, jmoore@rutgerschurch. org. Check out the afternoon specials for children ages 3-5. Running Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, the new program for preschoolers uses themes to pique children’s curiosities and creativity, and engage them in multiple, interdisciplinary ways. Learn more about the programs online. Classes run 1-3pm. Continues through March 27.

January 8: Pre-Professional Program Auditions for Ages 7-12, The Joan Weill Center for Dance, 405 W. 55th St., (212)405-9000, juniordivision@alvinailey.org, www. theaileyschool.edu. Students should be dressed in ballet attire for the audition. Parents should be prepared to enroll and pay immediately after the audition (if accepted) to guarantee their child’s place in the program. Advance registration is suggested for the audition. 4:30pm.

, what s happening

January 7-11: Winter JazzFest, Various Locations, www.winterjazzfest.com. A convergence of summer festivals used to mark the high point of the NYC jazz calendar, but this annual Winter Jazzfest has become arguably the genre’s top local draw. Celebrating its 10th year, the festival features a dazzling array of talent and is both a bustling forum of discovery and a guaranteed blast. Full schedule available online.

January 9: Pre-Professional Program Auditions for Ages 13-17, The Joan Weill Center for Dance, 405 W. 55th St., (212)405-9000, juniordivision@alvinailey.org, www. theaileyschool.edu. Students should be dressed in ballet attire for the audition. Parents should be prepared to enroll and pay immediately after the audition (if accepted) to guarantee their child’s place in the program. Advance registration is suggested for the audition. 4:30pm.

SEPTEMBER 2010

Beginning January 10: Bronx Bombers, Circle in the Square Theatre, 1633 Broadway, (212)239-6200, www. newyorkcitytheatre.com. Take a look into the last century of Major League Baseball’s most iconic and controversial teams, the New York Yankees, through the eyes of Yogi Berra. The show combines the ups and downs of some of

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46 I parentguide News I January 2014

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the most noteworthy players including Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio and even modernday players like Derek Jeter. Times Vary. The show runs through July 6.

End Ave., (212)298-2930, www.asphaltgreenbpc.org. Liz Neumark, CEO and Founder of Great Performances and Katchkie Farm, brings lessons and recipes straight from the farm. Noon-1pm.

January 11: Kids Get Active Day, New York Sports Club, 63rd Street and West End Avenue, (212)265-8200. off13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 419 Park AvenueKick South, the new year in a healthy way when you explore the offerings of New York Sports Club. Try out a class and taking January 15: Tour the MET with the Katonah Museum of FAx # Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., advantage of the season’s best deals ontO: kids fitness programs Art, The Metropolitan • for tots to teens! Nonmembers welcome! Noon-2pm. www.metmuseum.org, www.parentguidenews.com www.katonahmuseum.org. Inspired by the Katonah Museum of Art’s current exhibition, FrOm: iSSue DAte: January 11: At the Kids’ Table with Sarah Lohman: How Eye to I…3,000 Years of Portraits, explore the Met’s many the Kitchen Has Changed, New-York Historical Society, galleries on this private docent tour, and make connections call orbetween fax your comments and/orportraits OK. in the collection. 170 Central Park West, (212)873-3400. EnjoyPlease a family many of the remarkable scavenger hunt to uncover the kitchens from yesteryear. Limited space, advance registration required. Lunch reserDiscover what eighteenth-century SigNAture Tupperware looked vations limited and must be made in addition to tour regOF APPrOvAl: like, or nineteenth-century toasters! Then cook up cinnaistration. Meet at the central information desk in the Great mon toast like people would have done 200 years ago. Hall of the Metropolitan Museum of Art at 10:45am. Explore the kitchen from 1813 to 2013! 2pm. January 16: Pre-Professional Program Auditions for January 11: The Ghost Whisperer, The Concert Hall at New Ages 7-12, The Joan Weill Center for Dance, 405 W. 55th York Society for Ethical Culture, 2 W. 64th St., (800)745St., (212)405-9000, juniordivision@alvinailey.org, www. 3000, www.ticketmaster.com. James Van Praagh, world-retheaileyschool.edu. Students should be dressed in ballet 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 nowned psychic medium and New York Times bestselling attire for the prepared to en- • Fax 212419audition. Park AvenueParents South, Newshould York, NYbe 10016 • 212-213-8840 author, is recognized as one of the most accurate spiritual roll and pay immediately after the audition (if accepted) to: FAx have # brought solace, mediums working today. His messages to guarantee their child’s place in the program. to: FAx #Advance peace and spiritual insights, changing millions view of both 8pm. From: life and death. A meet-and-greet to follow. iSSue DAte:

January 15 - 21 PROOF

ProoF

DAte: MagicaliSSueDave

From:

January 12: Stam-Pede, Symphony Space, 2537 Broadcall or fax your comments oK. way,Please www.symphonyspace.org. Come enjoyand/or an afternoon Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. variety show of the best in percussive dance by eight celor small ebrated companies. From soulful flamenco, to lively Irish SigNAture oF APProvAl: SigNAture oF APProvAl: Works! dance, to innovative body percussion, to mesmerizing tap dance and delightful clogging, this impressive collection For advertising information please call 212-213-8840 Live Rabbit! Live Snake! of companies offers something for everyone who loves Comedy Magic! Party Favors! the power and precision of percussive dance. 3pm.

BIG

Magic Workshop!

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January 14: Sylvia’s Table: Lessons from Our Farm to Your Family, Asphalt Green Battery Park City, 212 North

• UNIQUE MAGIC SHOWS • BALLOON ANIMALS • JOIN-IN STORYTELLING • AND LOTS OF FUN You’ve seen Silly Billy on David Letterman, in his New Yorker profile and at more than 7,000 birthday parties. WABC-TV called him the “King of the Kiddie Comedy Circuit.” Silly Billy performs a funny magic show with lots of participation. Then join-in storytelling, where the children are in the show (Little Mermaid, The Circus, 3 Little Pigs, and other favorites). All the kids get balloons and more. Different shows for different ages (Ages 3-7). And NEW for 7-11 year olds: Dr. Blood who does a really gross magic show for older kids.

(212) 645-1299 • www.SillyBillyMagic.com your needs, your neighborhood

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

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212-475-7785 • MadeleineTheMagician.com

January 2014 I parentguide News I 47

JANUARY 2014 SEPTEMBER 2010 registration is suggested for the audition. 4:30pm.

Library & Museum, 225 Madison Ave., (212)685-0008, www.themorgan.org. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince is a well known piece of children’s literature. What is less well known is the story’s New York City’s ties. This exhibit, the most comprehensive yet, explores the story’’s American origins through the original manuscript and watercolor drawings. Times Vary. The exhibit runs through April 27.

PROOF

, what s happening

January 18: Free Visit Days at City Treehouse, City TreeJanuary 24: Pajama Glow-in-the-Dark Yoga!, Karma Kids 129A W.New 20th St.,NY (212)255-2050, www.citytreehouse. ark Avenue house, South, 13th Floor, York, 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734Yoga, 104 W. 14th St., (646)638-1444, downdog@karmakcom. Try out the Chelsea playspace for free-- climb atop a idsyoga.com, www.karmakidsyoga.com. Dressed in their two-story treehouse, peek through a kaleidoscope, duck into a pajamas, kids are invited to this special Friday night class! FAX # in the water table. Approstar cave, slide around, and splash Embark on a fantastical yoga adventure, then enjoy a story priate for children ages 18 months to 8 years. 10am. and yummy smelling foot rubs. Milk and cookies are served after the class, a high energy dance party to expel that enISSUE DATE: January 21: Trend-ology: Fashion Trends from Paisley ergy, then sweet dreams to follow! What a great way to kick to Hip-Hop, Asphalt Green Battery Park City, 212 North off the weekend! Appropriate for ages 4-8. 6:30-8pm. Please call or fax your comments and/or OK. Two End Ave., (212)298-2930, www.asphaltgreenbpc.org. curators from the Museum at FIT spotlight their current exJanuary 26: Pattern Palooza! Family Day, The Jewish hibition looking at sources of fashion trends from the past Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave. (212)423-3200, www.thejewURE OF APPROVAL: 250 years. Appropriate for adults only. Noon-1pm. ishmuseum.org. Families are invited to celebrate the beauty of wearable art and symbolic patterns at the Jewish Museum’s latest family day. Inspired by the museum’s exhibition of work by the fashion group threeASFOUR, kids create a sculpture of wearable art, explore patterns, Opening January 24: The Little Prince, The Morgan design their own symbols and explore the galleries all afternoon long. Appropriate for all ages. Noon.

SEPTEMBER 2010

January 22 - 28

CAKES ‘N SHAPES BY EDIE

Edible photoart on cakes and cookies too! Do it yourself edible image. E-mail or bring in your photo and make your home baked cake a special project. It’s easy as pie, or is it a piece of cake? Or, unique creative cakes in a design of your choice, perfected in a scrumptious

moist cake finished with a delicious butter cream icing. Also, cupcakes for school parties and edible photoart on cookies for that special party favor.

Delivery Available

(212)629-5512 www.CakesNShapes.com NUT-FREE BAKERY!

New Location! 466 West 51st Street Between 9th & 10th Avenues

48 I parentguide News I January 2014

By Appt. Only

January 26: NYC Audubon Winter EcoCruise: Winter Seals and Waterbirds of NY Harbor Boat tours, South Street Seaport, Pier 16, www.southstreetseaport.com, www.nywatertaxi.com. Keep an eye out for loons, sandpipers and geese during this trip aboard the New York Water Taxi. You’ll pass the Statue of Liberty and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge through parts of New York Harbor and circle Hoffman and Swinburne Islands, which are popular sunning spots for seals. Guests are encouraged to bundle up for the occasion, but tea and hot cocoa will be served to help reduce the chill factor. Reservations required. All ages are welcome. 1:45pm. January 28: “Starchitects” in Our Own Backyard, Asphalt Green Battery Park City, 212 North End Ave., (212)298-2930, www.asphaltgreenbpc.org. Architectural historian looks at what world-class architects Frank Gehry and Santiago Calatrava are doing in lower Manhattan. Appropriate for adults only. Noon-1pm.

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

January 29 - 31 January 29: Amateur Night Opening Night, Apollo Theater, 253 W. 125th St., (212)531-5300, www.apollotheater.org. The Apollo Theater’s weekly Amateur Night has quite a historical pedigree, having featured the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Jimi Hendrix, James Brown, Lauryn Hill, and Billie Holiday over the years. Music lovers, gawkers and aspiring superstars have two options: sink or swim by showing off their talents for the audience, or sit in on the acts and judge the performances. 7:30pm. January 31: Yoga Game Night!, Karma Kids Yoga, 104 W. 14th St., (646)638-1444, downdog@karmakidsyoga.com, www.karmakidsyoga.com. A fun-filled evening of creative Yoga Games that help to build focus, balance and concentration, as well as enhance teamwork and an overall sense of friendship and community. And, Yoga Games are so much fun to play! Reservations Required. 6:30-8:30pm. January 31: Harlem Fine Arts Show, The Riverside SEPTEMBER Church New York City, 490 Riverside Drive, (212)8706700, www.hfas.org. Now in its fifth year, the Harlem Fine Arts Show is one of the nation’s premier events showcasing contemporary paintings, sculpture, photography and other works created by African-Americans. More than 80 artists exhibit their works, alongside exhibitions mounted by galleries like Memphis’s WaterKolours Fine Art Gallery. Runs through February 2.

2010

Opening January 31: Thunderbird American Indian Dance Concert and Powwow, Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave., www.theaterforthenewcity.net, www.thunderbirdamericanindiandancers.wordpress.com. The oldest Native American dance company in New York, puts on a show of dances, stories and traditional music. Popular segments include the a caribou dance from the Inuit, and a buffalo dance from theSEPTEMBER Hopi. At the end, 2010 the audience can share the joy of the powwow during the friendship-themed Round Dance. Times Vary. Performances continue through February 9.

, what s happening? SEPTEMBER 2010 Share your event details by the 1st of the preceding month

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

January 2014 I parentguide News I 49

Winter Wonderland

Season

by Jordan Brueckner

Fun and cozy ways to enjoy the snowy season.

Bundled Baked Goods

All the time indoors this season offers a great opportunity to bake yummy treats. Once they’re ready to be shared, keep them safe on the go with the new Metal Cake Carrier from Cake Boss. This durable carrier is warp resistant and made with tin-plated steel for extra strength. It’s roomy enough for a 9-inch, double-layer, round cake; cheesecake; or pie. Impress your family and friends with your desserts in style when you get the Metal Cake Carrier from Cake Boss at a local Target store.

Ice, Ice Baby

Protect your child from the snow and ice this winter with Lite for Kids ice cleats from Stabilicers. These safeguarding cleats fit over any shoe or boot and provide reliable traction on snow and ice. To learn more about the Lite for Kids ice cleats and ensure your child’s protection during outdoor sports and winter play this season, visit www.32north.com.

January Treat Jar

Add personalized flavor to your winter decor with the Fits for the Occasion Cookie Jar. This cookie jar is unlike the rest with its unique ability to interchange magnetic designs and labels. The jar contains an area to use with an erasable maker, so you can store cookies and label the jar with whatever wintry motifs you like. Stick on a snow flake magnet to finish the look. Purchase the Fits for the Occasion Cookie Jar at http://shop.placetile.com.

Let Them Eat Cake

January 27 is Chocolate Cake Day! Indulge in rich, chocolate delight and celebrate with the Old-Fashioned Chocolate Cake recipe courtesy of Nigella Lawson at www.foodnetwork.com. Ingredients: Cake: •1½ c. all-purpose flour •1 c. super-fine sugar •1 tsp. baking powder •½ tsp. baking soda •⅓ c. cocoa •1½ sticks soft, unsalted butter •2 large eggs •2 tsp. vanilla extract •⅔ c. sour cream Frosting: •6 oz. semisweet chocolate, broken into small pieces •¾ stick unsalted butter •2½ c. confectioners’ sugar •1 tsp. light corn syrup •½ c. sour cream •1 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions: Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix all the cake ingredients in a food processor. Continue process until you have a thick, smooth batter. Divide this batter into 8-inch prepared tins. Bake for 35 minutes or until the cake tester comes out clean. Move the cakes to a wire rack. Let them cool for about 10 minutes before turning them out of their tins. To create the icing, melt the butter and chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Sieve the confectioners’ sugar into another bowl while you are waiting for the butter and chocolate to cool. Add the corn syrup to the cooled chocolate mixture, followed by the sour cream and vanilla extract. When this is all combined, add in the sieved confectioners’ sugar using a whisk. Sit one of the cakes uppermost side down. Spoon about ⅓ of the frosting onto the center of the cake-half. Then, spread the frosting using a spatula or a knife until the top is evenly covered. Layer the other cake on top. Spoon another ⅓ of the frosting onto the cake top and sides. Leave it to set for a few minutes before serving.

The Dream Continues

Teach your children about tolerance and diversity this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day with the Freedom Friends craft from www.spoonful. com! This puppet project lends itself to a fun learning activity. What You’ll Need: •Jumbo craft sticks (one per puppet) •Mini craft sticks (two per puppet) •Construction paper in various colors •Small wiggle eyes (two per puppet) •Craft paint: peach or flesh tone, brown, light brown, sunflower or light tan •Chenille stems in black and brown •Scissors •Craft glue and hot glue gun •Black Sharpie marker Directions: Paint the jumbo craft sticks and mini craft sticks with the desired color of craft paint, and let dry. Cut out clothes like Tshirts and pants from colorful construction paper. Proceed to glue two wiggle eyes on each jumbo craft stick. To create curly hair, cut a chenille stem into four pieces. Tightly wrap each piece of chenille around the handle of a small paintbrush. Remove the stem and pull it to stretch out the curl. Attach the “hair” to each puppet using a hot glue gun. Add the clothing to the puppets using craft glue. Make sure to glue the bottoms first so the shirt can overlap. Turn the puppet over and glue the arms to the back of the jumbo craft stick. Make sure to line the arms up with the shirtsleeves. After the glue dries, turn the puppet back over and draw on smiles and dot on a nose with a Sharpie marker. Jordan Brueckner is the editorial intern.

Go to www.parentguidenews.com for a chance to win these great prizes! 50 I parentguide News I January 2014

Win a

$400 BJ’s Gift Card*

To enter the Bundle of Joy Photo Contest, send photographs of your kids wrapped up and ready for a happy new year. Whether your child is swaddled in a blanket, cloistered in cold weather garb, or cradled in grandma’s arms, head to www.parentguidenews.com to submit one picture per family by January 31. The following month, we’ll post selected entries online for viewer voting. Encourage relatives and friends to vote once each day for the best chance to win. The family with the most votes receives a $400 BJ’s Gift Card or ski passes!

Visit www.parentguidenews.com for contest details. *The winner can redeem the gift card at any BJ’s location using BJ’s free 60-day trial membership or purchase a membership with the gift card. If the winner is already a BJ’s member, the winner can also use the member login to purchase items online.

stteerr RReegis w!! NNoow

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teeny tumblers • mighty muscle movers rockin' rollers • jodi's jumpstart • tumbling tots jammin’ @ jodi’s • funtastic gymnastics totally tumbling • motion evolution • mad science creation station dance • open play • jodi’s to go holiday and summer camps • best birthdays ever!