JANUARY 2015
Manhattan
Top of the
Class
School and program listings for success
H A P PY NE W YE AR !
Science, Tech, Math, and our Daughters Trichotillomania When hair pulling is an issue
www.parentguidenews.com Over 1,000 Exciting Family Events M
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CAMP SHOWCASE
Camp Keshet
Park Avenue Synagogue Day Camp
ic Juda mming a progr
certified swim instruction
car i n experie g, nced staff
summer fun
theme days
on the Upper East Side
arts and crafts
4, 5, 6 & 7 week sessions
c and musi ment move
for kids ages 2ž - 5½ June 22 - August 7
Indoor & outdoor play facilities
yoga
Israeli culture Shab progrbat am
For more information or to enroll, contact us at 212-369-2600 ext 153 OR camp@pasyn.org
January 2015 I parentguide News I
CAMP SHOWCASE
contents
The weekday school aT RiveRside chuRch
table of
490 RiveRside dRive, New yoRk, Ny 10027
is pleased to announce
SUMMERSIDE CAMP 2015 Session I: June 15-26 Session II: June 29-July 10 (closed 7/3) Session III: July 13 - 24 Register for one, two or all sessions.
MInI CAMP
FUll CAMP
for 2s and young 3s 8:45am - 12:30pm
for 3-6 year-olds 8:45am - 2:30pm
Registration for the Summerside Camp program is under way. Information and registration forms are available:
January 2015 Volume 32 • Number 1
Education Coverage
P. 12
Proof
The Pros of Programs..................... 12
Bun
Why after-school activities matter.
www.wdsnyc.org/pages/summerside-camp www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Online:
Contact: Tricia Pool at tpool@wdsnyc.org
Education Directory............................ 14
C
Leading schools, programs, and resources near you.
Girls and STEM............................... 26
Call for more information 212-870-6743
Do
Thi
Why we need more females in certain fields.
Be sure to save a spaceRegister by May 1, 2015
C
Bir
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Insi
Special Needs
P. 28
Sensory Learning.................... 28 How to help development.
Tra
Des
Up
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Cal
A co perf
Health & Fitness
P. 30
What is Trichotillomania?... 30 How this hair-pulling disorder affects millions of people.
Art
Feature
Baby’s Milestones........................................................... 10 From birth through 12 months.
P. 32
Woman oman mom
Positive Self-Talk.................................... 32 Banish negativity to boost confidence.
J
Feeling Good, Looking Good............... 33 Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous.
I parentguide News I January 2015
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CAMP SHOWCASE
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Winston Preparatory School education for the individual
126 West 17th Street, New York, NY 10011 646-638-2705 ext. 688 | summer@winstonprep.edu
Summer Program 2015 | June 26-July 24, 2015 Morning Academic Program Mon-Fri, 9am-1:30pm Small class sizes Daily skill development in literature, history, science, and math Gym, art, and music classes daily Students from 4th to 12th grades
After-school Activities Mon-Thurs, 2pm-3:30pm One-on-one classes and independent study program also available during August.
July Focus Program Mon-Thurs, 9am - 3:30pm One-on-One Instruction Targeted skill development 45-minute or 90-minute sessions
Applications available online at www.winstonprep.edu
Camp is around the corner ay
l and M i r p A , h c r a ry in M
o
Camp Direct
212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com your needs, your neighborhood
January 2015 I parentguide News I
contents contents
Sara Gubenko, MSed table of
table of
Master of Science in Elementary and Literacy Education
Private tutor
January 2015 Volume 32 • Number 1
January 2015 Volume 32 • Number 1
NYC teacher Education reading & Writing SpecialistP. 12 Coverage The Pros of Programs..................... 12
Contests
Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 41
PROOF
Bundle of Joy Photo Contest....................................... 43
Why after-school activities matter.
Education Directory............................ 14 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Leading schools, programs, and resources near you. Girls and STEM............................... 26
Columns
Don’t Miss........................................................................ 8 This month’s entertainment and activities.
Why we need more females in certain fields.
Health............................................................................ 34
P. 28
Insight and items for your family’s care.
Providing academic Support & enrichment to Children across Manhattan
Special Needs
Sensory Learning.................... 28
(646) 389-7323How • Ms.Sarae@gmail.com to help development.
The salon just for kids where the haircuts are cool and fun rules!
Health & Fitness
P. 30
What is Trichotillomania?... 30
Update........................................................................... 42 Essential products and information for your brood.
Bonus
Calendar of Events........................................................ 37 A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, events, and performances. Cover Credit: Amanda Saldarelli Photography Publisher Steve Elgort Managing Editor Donald McDermott Associate Editor Samantha Chan
All Haircuts include wash, inicut, style, m , os to ta , re cu and more.
Feature
Voted kids sa #1 Video Games, lo Nickelo n by deon Tween Lounge, Magaz Baby’s Milestones........................................................... ine 200 10 s Fun Chairs, e 7, 2008, 2 Tim From birth 12 months. hise through 009, Franc azine Membership 2 0 g 10, 201 Ma 1 owing Programs, st Gr
P. 32
Destinations, product picks, and getaway tips.
Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina
How this hair-pulling disorder affects millions of people.
e “Fast s Salon Kid hise”! Franc
Travel.............................................................................. 36
Professional Kids Stylists, and more!
Woman oman mom
Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski Accounting Teresa Pinargote Contributing Writers Andrea Beaty, Beverly D. Flaxington, Julie McCaffrey, Dr. Francine Rosenberg, Ed Turney, Louise Weadock Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti
1359 Second Avenue Positive (between Self-Talk.................................... 32 71st and 72nd st) Banish negativity to boost confidence. New York, NY 10021 (646) 559-2150 Feeling Good, Looking Good............... 33 /
Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous.
sharkeyscutsforkids.com Franchises available
I parentguide News I January 2015
Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli
M
Advertising Sales Representatives Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, Jennifer Serpi, Amy Smith, Rena Spangler, Felicia Stafford PGTV Producer Beth Elgort Submission of articles, photographs and artwork is welcome. All material must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. PARENTGUIDE News assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage of submitted material. PARENTGUIDE News reserves the unrestricted right to edit or otherwise alter submitted material for publication. PARENTGUIDE News, ISSN08961468, is published monthly by PG Media Network Corp., 101 E. Park Ave., #358, Long Beach, NY 11561; 212-213-8840. Copyright 2015 PGMNC. All rights reserved.
parentguidenews.com
Letter from the Editor The start of this month marks my eighth year at PARENTGUIDE News. I’ve learned so much here since my early days as an assistant editor. Being part of PG has enabled me to interview intriguing celebrities, share my world travels in ink, meet tons of amazing writers and readers, continually learn about vital parenting topics, and engage in the nitty gritty of being a proud grammar geek. I’ve seen PARENTGUIDE News adapt and grow in ways I never would have imagined on my first day in 2007, and I hope to continue its legacy as an essential resource for thousands of families in 2015 and beyond. While I’m cooking up exciting articles for your brood’s well-being, I’d like to know: What’s on your agenda for the new year? If the return to classes following holiday vacation has your family once again focused on academics, discover enriching schools and programs in our Education Directory. With it, you can pick and choose the best options to maximize your child’s 2015. Find related hot topics in “Girls and STEM” by Andrea Beaty and “The Pros of Programs” by Ed Turney. The articles respectively discuss why
U
by Rachel Kalina
it’s especially important girls are taught to love subjects like science and math, as well as the myriad benefits of afterschool activities. Additionally, learn about a hair-pulling disorder that could explain a family member’s (or perhaps your own) behavior in “What is Trichotillomania?” by Dr. Francine Rosenberg. The article imparts how this condition affects millions of people and ways it may be treated. For fun winter activities, turn to the Calendar of Events and participate in the Bundle of Joy Photo Contest. Plus, cozy up to www.parentguidenews.com for endless and relevant content, whether you want to know more about children’s speech impairments or how to best prepare for a new baby’s arrival. If you’re also a fan of Pinterest, “follow” us at www.pinterest.com/parentguidenews/ to see the latest original PG articles that have gone viral. Happy New Year!
OPen HOuSeS in January
Twin Parks Montessori Riverside Montessori School
Twin Parks Montessori
Asphalt Green
Asphalt Green
Park West Montessori School
upper east Side Camp
Battery Park City Camp
202 Riverside Dr. New York, NY 10025 (212)665-1600 www.twinparks.org
435 Central Park West New York, NY 10025 (212)678-6072 www.twinparks.org
January 7, 9:30am RSVP to admissions@twinparks.org
January 8, 9:30am RSVP to pwadmissions@twinparks.org
555 E. 90th St. New York, NY 10128 (212)369-8890, ext. 2084 cdobens@asphaltgreen.org www.asphaltgreen.org
211 North End Ave. New York, NY, 10282 (212)298-2900 camps@asphaltgreen.org www.asphaltgreen.org/camp
January 11 11am-12:30pm
January 13 6-7pm
Kid’s Korner Preschool
Hudsonway immersion School
Deerkill Day Camp
Academy of St. Joseph
247 W. 24th St. New York, NY 10011 (212)229-9340 kidskornernyc@gmail.com www.thekidskornerpreschool.com
175 Riverside Boulevard New York, NY 10069 (212)787-8088 www.hwis.org
54 Wilder Road Suffern, NY 10901 (845)354-1466 directors@deerkilldaycamp.com www.deerkilldaycamp.com
111 Washington Place New York, NY 10014 (212)243-5420 info@aosj.us www.academyofsaintjoseph.org
January 19 Please call to RSVP
January 20 9-10am
January 13 and 20 By appointment only
January 15, 9:30am RSVP to admissionsny@hwis.org
Please check with the school prior to attendance to confirm listing details and make a reservation if required. your needs, your neighborhood
January 2015 I parentguide News I
DON’T MISS SpongeBob’s Sequel
Everyone’s favorite underwater hero is back when Nickelodeon Pictures presents The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water. The animated action film follows SpongeBob on a quest to recover a stolen recipe. The flick opens on February 6.
Super Sonic
Discover amazing environments, fight colossal enemies, and pilot awesome vehicles in Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric.The action-packed game from Sega is rated E for Everyone. In stores and online now, Sonic Boom is available for the Nintendo Wii U.
People Power
Anna Faris and Allison Janney, stars of the sitcom Mom, will be your hosts for the People’s Choice Awards on January 7. Presented live on CBS, 9-11pm, the annual event has collected more than 70 million votes to determine your favorite performers in a variety of categories. Check your local listings.
Under the Big Top
Don’t miss your chance to catch the Big Apple Circus at Lincoln Center in New York City before it closes on January 11! The exciting 37th season brings about Metamorphosis, which transports you to an enchanted world where nothing is impossible. Visit www.bigapplecircus.org or call (888)541-3750 for directions and more information.
Guardians at Home
Take home the biggest movie of 2014 as Guardians of the Galaxy comes to DVD, Blu-ray, and Digital Download. Marvel Studios presents the epic space adventure about a group of misfits who reluctantly come together to help save the universe. Complete with a variety of special features, Guardians of the Galaxy is ready for purchase now.
January
by Donald McDermott
Out of this World
Sackboy is back and he’s brought along new friends in Little Big Planet 3: Launch Edition. The amazing new game from Sony invites you to explore a world filled with creativity in all corners of the Imagisphere. Pick up a copy today for the PlayStation 3 or 4.
Pan-demonium
One of the most talked about television specials of all time is now on DVD. Broadcast live from New York and starring Allison Williams and Christopher Walken, Peter Pan Live! offers a bold musical production based on the beloved tale about the boy who never grew up. Pick up your copy today.
Spread Your Wings
Lionsgate Home Entertainment brings you the story of Ace, an arrogant young firefighting plane, in Wings: Sky Force Heroes. Available now on DVD, this animated tale of redemption follows Ace as he tries to make up for a reckless mistake that almost cost him his whole team.
Game On
The Nintendo Company offers hours of endless fun with two brand-new games for the Nintendo 3DS. Pokemon Omega Ruby and Pokemon Alpha Sapphire are sure to be hits with kids of all ages. Both games are rated E for Everyone and are available in stores and online now.
Watch Out
The My Mobile Watchdog app gives parents the power to monitor their child’s mobile activity. Designed to help keep kids safe, the new app provides more than 20 parental controls that make it simple for you to monitor, block, filter, and track what your child is doing. Find out more at www.mymobilewatchdog.com.
Donald McDermott is the managing editor. I parentguide News I January 2015
parentguidenews.com
January Your Baby’s Language Milestones
Rutgers Community programs is bringing on another great workshop for parents on January 12, 6-7:30pm. Head to the 236 W. 73rd St. location for My First Words with Gift of Gab: Birth-5 Years+ Speech and Language Milestones, Red Flags, and Techniques. The event is hosted by speech therapists Alpin Rezvani and Debbie Shiwbalak. Registration is required and can be done by contacting Jennifer Moore at jmoore@rutgerschurch.org or (212)877-8227, ext. 212.
Proof
by Samantha Chan
Transform Your World
The Big Apple Circus is wrapping up its visit to Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center.The magical 37th season, Metamorphosis, has been both mesmerizing and astonishing, transporting audiences to an enchanted world where nothing is impossible. Before January 11, bring your family to the circus where no one is farther than 50 feet from the stage. Visit www.bigapplecircus.org or call (888)541-3750 for information on tickets and showtimes.
Proof
Family Fun In a Fantasy Future Happy New Year www.parentguidenews.com 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Join the faculty, friends, and family Lionboy takes the stage at New Victory Theater The Chinese•New Year Firecracker of A.C.T. as they celebrate their 44th season with a Winter Family Festival. The event takes place at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave. on January 10, noon-4pm. It is open to the public, and you can find a full schedule of upcoming events at www.actprograms.org.
from January 23 to February 1. The production, staged by London-based theater troupe Complicite, takes audiences to a dystopian future where a corporation kidnaps Lionboy’s parents. He must rescue them, and along the way he meets a few oddities that will enchant any audience member. Times vary. Tickets can be purchased via www.newvictory.org or at the box office at 209 W. 42nd St.
Ceremony and Cultural Festival is back at Sara D. Roosevelt Park, between Eldridge and Forsyth, as well as Canal and Grand Streets. At 11am, enjoy this massive celebration complete with pyrotechnics and the colorful costumes of drummers and dancers. A parade begins at noon. For more information, log onto www.betterchinatown.com. Samantha Chan is the associate editor.
M MB 1/15 Founded in 1928, New York’s Rudolf Steiner School is North America’s rst Waldorf School.
LEARNING WITH OUR HANDS, HEART AND HEAD. Steiner students are inspired by an education that cultivates imagination through the foundations of humanities, science, math and arts. Engaging the hands, heart and head creates a love of learning and is the truest form of innovation. In the last five years alone, China has opened more than 200 Waldorf Schools! Learn why Waldorf education is the fastest growing independent school movement worldwide.
RUDOLF STEINER SCHOOL NEW YORK CITY
your needs, your neighborhood
NURSERY THROUGH GRADE 6 15 East 79th Street, NYC GRADE 7 THROUGH GRADE 12 15 East 78th Street, NYC Phone: 212.535.2130
Steiner.edu
robofun
SM
*Winter Vacation Days*
Jan. 19: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Feb. 16 - 20: Mid Winter Recess
2672 Broadway & 102nd St. NYC | 212.245.0444 www.robofun.org January 2015 I parentguide News I
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Baby’s Milestones
by Julie McCaffrey
From birth through 12 months.
You’ve just brought your newborn baby home from the hospital. You’re nervous, in love, and amazed with your new creation. Now what? Don’t panic, you’ll get the hang of this parenting thing. Use this handy infographic as a basic guide to what you can expect in terms of sleeping, eating, motor skills, and playtime throughout baby’s first year. In no time, you’ll be a pro!
NEWBORN
Senses/ Motor Skills
Feeding Feeds every 2 to 3 hours
Sleeps most of the day Wakes up every 2 to 3 hours
Vision at its best from between 8 and 12 inches away
Breastfeeds/ bottle every 3 to 4 hours
Sleeps about 15 hours/day Sleeps straight for 5 to 6 hours at night
Mimics sounds, expressions, and movements Makes eye contact Recognizes familiar faces
On the floor or under a baby gym Loves to kick up a storm and swing at things
Sleeping pattern
Playtime
Senses/ Motor Skills
Feeding
Communicates through grunts, hiccups, cries, and sneezes
Enjoys mirrors, sounds, and colors
Sleeping pattern
3rd MONTH
Playtime
1st MONTH
Senses/ Motor Skills
Feeding
Responds to familiar sounds Keeps hands tight in fists
He is into faces, not toys
Sleeping pattern
Sleeps about 15 hours/day Naps 2 to 3 times/day
Begins teething Rolls from stomach to back
Bottle/breastfeeds every 3 to 5 hours
Can push up to his elbows
May be ready for solid food
Loves to reach for toys
Playtime
2nd MONTH Feeding
Sleeps less during the day, more at night
Sleeping pattern
Senses/ Motor Skills
Feeding
Hearing is fully developed
Breastfeeds/ bottle every 2 to 3 hours
15 to 16 hours/day
4th MONTH
Breastfeeds/ bottle every 2 to 3 hours
Sleeping pattern Senses/ Motor Skills Tracks moving objects with eyes Learns to thumb/fist-suck
Playtime
5th MONTH Feeding
Begins to lift head Sleeps for about 15 hours/day (6 to 8 hours at night)
Becomes more of a social butterfly Responds with gurgles and coos to chatty admirers
Takes 2 or 3 naps a day
Playtime
10 I parentguide News I January 2015
Sleeping pattern
IR 1/15
Adores peekaboo and funny faces
Senses/ Motor Skills Breastfeeds/ bottle every 3 to 5 hours Nourishment may start to include solids
Learns how to reach with both hands and grasp things with all fingers
Patty-cake time! Still enjoys peekaboo
Playtime parentguidenews.com
6th MONTH
Senses/ Motor Skills
Feeding
May be introduced to one new, mushy solid food every 3 to 4 days
Takes 2 to 3 naps/day Nighttime stretch is getting longer
Learns how to sit up
Needs breast/ formula milk 4 to 5 times/day
Sleeps 13 hours/day
Needs 3 meals and 2 snacks/day
Takes 2 naps/day
Responds well to soft balls, textured toys, and musical instruments
Sleeping pattern
Senses/ Motor Skills
Feeding
Rolls in both directions: back to front and front to back
Breastfeeds/ bottle every 3 to 6 hours
Sleeps 15 hours/day
10th MONTH
Playtime Senses/ Motor Skills
7th MONTH Feeding
Sleeping pattern
Bottle feeds every 4 to 6 hours Eats a tablespoon or two of solids/day
Babbles and imitates sounds
Senses/ Motor Skills
Feeding
Takes 2 naps/day
Needs 750 to 900 calories/ day (400-500 from breast milk or formula) Likes soft table or finger foods with different textures
Learns to sit up by himself/herself Begins to lean over
Takes 2 naps/day
Sleeping pattern
Eats solids 3 to 5 times/day
Sleeping pattern Senses/ Motor Skills
Senses/ Motor Skills
Can probably self-feed by now It’s story telling time!
Playtime
Stands without support, at least for a few seconds Walks 2 or 3 steps without support Able to speak a few words like dada and mama Understands simple command
Has learned object permanence
Playtime
A cushioned obstacle course to climb, scoot and cruise over and around is great to help him experiment with movement
your needs, your neighborhood
Feeding
Takes 2 naps/day
Feeding Needs 24 to 32 ounces of breast or formula milk/day
Playtime
Sleeps 13 hours/day
9th MONTH
Recognizes object
Peekaboo still works wonders
Needs 3 solid meals and 1 to 3 snacks/day
Playtime
Sleeps 15 hours/day
Needs 3 solid meals plus 1 to 3 snacks/day
Knows how to stand, cruise, and scoot
12th MONTH
Gearing up for crawling, or already is
Any and all safe toys or household objects will do for playtime
Sleeping pattern
Sleeps 13 hours/day
Sleeping pattern
Playtime
8 MONTH
Needs breast or formula milk 3 to 5 times/day
Takes 2 naps/day
th
Senses/ Motor Skills
Feeding
Can support own weight with his legs (with help from adults)
Picture books and colorful magazines a favorite
Sleeps 15 hours/day
11th MONTH
Sees full color Breast feeds every 3 to 4 hours or
Takes 6 to 11 hours of nighttime stretch
Remembers favorite toys
Patty cake works more than ever!
Sleeping pattern
Playtime
Sleeps 15 hours/day
Understands simple instructions
Julie McCaffrey is a proud mommy of three kids and offers personalized consultation to new and expecting parents. She is also the Chief Brand Officer at PishPoshBaby.com, a high-quality baby store offering advice, products, and reviews for parents who are completely lost in the whirlwind of baby gear. Find everything from car seats and strollers to nursery items, diaper bags, toys, and more covered at PishPoshBaby.
January 2015 I parentguide News I 11
The
S of o r P
by Ed Turney
ProgramS
Why after-school activities matter. It’s more popular than ever for children to be enrolled in afterschool activities. The physical, emotional, and psychological benefits of such programs are plenty. With today’s academic pressures at their highest, they’re also necessary! Children who participate in after-school programs may experience decreased stress, increased focus, boosted immunity, and higher levels of confidence.
Kids need to move
All children, especially at the elementary school level, are made to sit still for hours every day. This is the exact opposite of what children want and need to do. Kids are designed to be active, loud, energetic, and expressive. So, after a long day of taking notes and quizzes, it’s great for kids to be able to get moving and creative. An after-school martial arts class, dance session, gymnastics workout, band practice, theater rehearsal, or sports game could provide the perfect outlet for your child. A little bit of sweat and fitness will balance out a long day of mental exercise.
Take a breath of fresh air
According to the American Lung Association, 7.1 million children younger than age 18 suffer from some form of asthma. Physical activities, like the ones found in many after-school programs, teach children to breathe correctly. Learning to take deep diaphragmatic breaths can increase lung capacity and heart function. Deeper breathing develops a more active mind-body connection, which is an essential tool for success. Taking slow and deep breaths can also help children who suffer from stress and panic attacks. Oftentimes, test anxiety and academic performance issues can be alleviated with controlled breathing techniques.
Shout it out!
After a long day of being told to sit quietly and pay attention to a teacher, children are eager to unwind and get loud. Martial arts, sports, and other fitness classes offer a great way to let out that suppressed energy. In such programs, being vocally expressive is part of a good curriculum. Interactive games and training drills also allow the body to “shout it out” after being still all day. 12 I parentguide News I January 2015
MB 1/15
parentguidenews.com
Better, faster, stronger
Dance workshops, martial arts classes, sports leagues, and gymnastics programs enable kids to improve physical health and foster motor skills. Increased timing, faster reflexes, better focus, sharper hand-eye coordination, and better agility are just a few benefits of these programs. With each passing season of participation, your child’s confidence will grow, as will her bonds with peers and teammates.
Homework help
Engaging in additional academics after the last bell of the school day has rung can be daunting for some students. Kids who have a break in between class and homework in the form of a beloved after-school program have an advantage. They get to recharge their brains and bodies in beneficial ways. Once it’s time to settle down for homework and studying, they’ll be refreshed and ready to jump back into their educational tasks.
After-school programs have a long list of benefits and value for children. They can improve physical health, enhance focus, reduce stress, and encourage confidence. Is your child already experiencing the myriad pros of programs? If not, look to your local calendars, libraries, school postings, and online message boards for tips on where to enroll!
PROOF
PROOF
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Ed Turney has been a professional in the fitness industry since 2004. He owns and operates Shaolin KungFu & Fitness in Rocky Point, New York, where he works with children and adults of all ages and abilities. He holds several certifications in both fitness and East Asian medicine. Turney uses his 20 years of martial arts and fitness knowledge to help each and every student reach specific goals.
Come Play Yoga at Karma Kids Yoga!
Warriors can do anything. (between 5th and 6th Avenues)
Yoga for Babies Toddlers, Kids, Teens, Families Community Yoga CircusYoga Special Needs Prenatal Yoga Free Story Time Yoga Yoga Birthday Parties Special Events Teacher Training
(646)638-1444, downdog@karmakidsyoga.com www.karmakidsyoga.com your needs, your neighborhood
January 2015 I parentguide News I 13
Discover Some of the Area’s Finest Schools & Programs! PROOF
Schools
sive experience working with children. Year-end performances are held in the School’s own theater as well as other venues. Visit www.theaileyschool.edu for more details.
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Ailey School The Joan Weill Center for Dance Cathedral School 405 W. 55th St., NYC 10019 319 E. 74th St., NYC 10021 (212)405-9000 (212)249-2840 juniordivision@alvinailey.org info@cathedralschoolny.org www.theaileyschool.edu www.cathedralschoolny.org The renowned Ailey School, under directors Tracy Inman and Founded in 1949, The Cathedral School is an accomplished Melanie Person, serves as the official school of Alvin Ailey independent school with 160 students in preschool-grade 8. It American Dance Theater. The School is a professional dance offers a highly qualified faculty, a rigorous academic program, institution with one of the best, most diverse programs availsmall classes, a diverse student body, and high school preparaable. The Ailey School’s Junior Division offers classes for chiltion. Graduates are consistently placed in the city’s best high dren beginning at age 3. The First Steps and Bounding Boys schools. Students also continue to benefit from an Extended Park Enrichment Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 programs offer an enjoyable introduction to dance, bringing 419Day Program with a variety of offerings. The misthe joy of music and creative movement to young children. The sion statement of “excellence through the classics” has become FAx # includes Latin and Anpre-professional program for students ages 7-17 encompassesto:a a central part of the curriculum, which broad curriculum of dance classes including Horton, Limón and cient Greek (grades 7-8) and Mythology (kindergarten-grade Graham-based modern dance techniques, classical ballet, tap, member of the NationFrom: 4). The Cathedral School is also charter iSSue DAte: West African and Spanish dance. Classes are taught by profesal Junior Classical League and students routinely win highest sional dancers who are nurturing dance instructors with extenhonors in the League’s annual ETC (Excellence through Clas-
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Please call or fax your comments and/or oK.
SigNAture oF APProvAl:
WINTER SESSION STARTS JANUARY
26TH
Girotondo (circle of fun) Ages 2-8 An Italian language program which improves fluency through songs, stories, games and arts & crafts.
A A eess 33 & &U Up p In certain Manhattan areas
(347) 844 - 3131
www.frenchschooltechnique.com
Il Giardino Dei Bambini Ages 2-5
A drop-off playgroup. Children may join in on the fun every Mon, Tues. & Thurs. from 9-12 on an as needed basis. Create, Act, Draw... Ages 3-5 & 7-12 Italian Art Workshop • Year-round FT/PT progressive school for children ages 2-6 years old
Tutoring Services Inquire About Adult Classes
1556 Third Avenue @ 87th, Suite 603
212.427.7770 www.collinaitaliana.com info@collinaitaliana.com 14 I parentguide News I January 2015
• Our physical environment is spacious yet cozy, warm and sun-filled • Our classrooms include a variety of materials such as paint, clay, water, sand & blocks • Now accepting applications for September 2015
251 W. 100th St., NY 10025 • 212.866.9193 • purple-circle.org parentguidenews.com
EDUCATION DIRECTORY sics) examination. Movement and Exercise classes and music appreciation are taught to Early Childhood students. Ted Kusulas is head of school. Financial aid is available. Full- and half-day programs are available for preschool students. For more information about upcoming open houses, please visit www.cathedralschoolny.org or e-mail Athena Efter ataefter@ cathedralschoolny.org.
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
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Ecole Internationale de New York (EINY) 111 E. 22nd St., NYC 10010 (646)410-2238 clydejavois@einy.org www.einy.org Ecole Internationale de New York (EINY) is a French-American international school that offers an academic, bilingual program in French and English. Mandarin starts in third grade and Spanish is taught in the middle school section. The school enrolls 200 students from nursery through seventh grade (ages 3-13). In September 2014, the school expanded its preschool section to a new building located at 206 Fifth Ave. (corner of E. 26th Street). In September 2015, it will open the new eighth-grade class in its international Middle School section. EINY is accredited by the French Ministry of Education for its primary grades. It combines the best of both French and American educational systems, offering students the rigorous, more classical instruction of French education and the more inquiry-based teaching of the American system. EINY is a family-sized school that enrolls American students who don’t speak French, French or French-American children, and international students who speak a third or fourth language at 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 FUNéi offers a wide variety of extracurricular classes to explore the arts and practice a multitude of sports. For information and to schedule a visit, contact Mrs. Mireille Desalm, Coordinator of admissions, at info@einy.org.
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HudsonWay Immersion School 175 Riverside Boulevard, NYC 10069 (212)787-8088 www.hwis.org HudsonWay Immersion School’s (formerly Bilingual Buds) pioneering approach to immersion education develops students ages 2 to fifth grade into global citizens. Their approach develops superior cognitive skills, bilingual Mandarin/English skills, and cultural understanding giving students the skills and confidence to “navigate the world”. For 10 years HWIS has pioneered immersion education in NJ and NY. School leaders have more than 60 years of experience in immersion education. Visit www.hwis.org or call (212)787-8088 to register for an Open House. 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, your needs, your neighborhood
Sky Rink has been New York’s favorite place to skate since 1969. Bring friends and family for:
General Ice Skating Admission: $10 • Skate Rental: $5 Visit chelseapiers.com/sr for the full schedule.
The Best Skating School New classes begin every week. Receive 12 classes for the price of 10!
Fun Birthday Parties New York’s coolest party place. Ask about our affordable party packages!
SKY RINK
212.336.6100 chelseapiers.com/sr
January 2015I parentguide News I 15
EDUCATION DIRECTORY
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 and extended days as well as half day schedule arrangements designed to meet the needs of individual families. Kid’s Korner is celebrating 21 years of striving to offer the most nurturing and loving beginning to your child’s educational experience. Come explore Kid’s Korner on an informative tour to see what all your friends are whispering about!
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and science, together with a formidable competence in foreign languages. Morningside Montessori School 251 W. 100th St., NYC 10025 (212)316-1555 info@morningsidemontessori.org www.morningsidemontessori.org Morningside Montessori School is a preschool for children 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 students’ needs and interests. Morningside loves and welcomes families of all diversities.
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La Scuola d’Italia “Guglielmo Marconi” 12 E. 96th St., NYC 10128 (212)369-3290 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 secretary@lascuoladitalia.org Purple Circle Early Childhood Program www.lascuoladitalia.org 251 W. 100 St., NYC 10025 to: FAx # O: FAX # Initially founded in 1977 by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (212)866-9193 to meet the academic needs of Italians living in the New York City info@purple-circle.org From: iSSue DAte: ROM: DATE: area, thanks to an ever increasingISSUE interest on the part of American www.purple-circle.org families, La Scuola has grown into a unique bilingual educational Purple Circle is an independent Early Childhood Program for chilinstitution, reflecting the best features of the Italian and American dren ages 2 through 5. Located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, it Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. PleaseLacall or fax your comments and/or OK. educa- was system. Scuola is committed to providing a bicultural founded in 1972 as a parent-cooperative that values families as tion to foster international understanding and openness in order to integral members of our school community. The partnership between SigNAture families oF APProvAl: IGNATURE prepare OF APPROVAL: students to become citizens of the world. The challenging and teachers is essential to the preservation of children’s play. bilingual curriculum, deeply rooted in the European classical tradiOur exceptional student to teacher ratio affords teachers time to obtion, offers an intensive academic program. The unique curriculum serve all children closely in order to know them as unique individuals. is designed to give students a firm grounding in liberal arts, math Knowing children as individuals, Purple Circle is able to provide a va-
Inquire About Our Performing Arts Pre-Professional Division!
P ppyseed Pre-Nursery
Photo by 5 westkids/SpencerLum
Professional Training in a Nurturing Environment Ballet Classes for All Ages
Enrich Your Child’s Day with Music, Art, Gym & Play!
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, r/ Q32, Q60 & Q101 Buses) inte W r 917-281-1030 or 212-204-6348 o ow f Term! info@theballetclub.com N r e t www.theballetclub.com egis pring
R
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“Mommy & Me” Age Appropriate Classes For Babies, Toddlers & 2’s 424 West End Ave. @ 81st • 212-877-7614 poppyseedprenursery.com parentguidenews.com
riety of materials in every classroom that support each child’s strengths and interests.There are four separate classrooms organized by age; the Little Kids Room for young 2s, the Middle Kids I Room for older 2s and young 3s, the Middle Kids II Room for older 3s, and the Big Kids Room for 4s and 5s. The rooftop playground is used daily, except in the most inclement weather. It has a gazebo, climbers, sprinklers in the summer, and room for running. Purple Circle is a non-profit, nondiscriminatory school welcoming children of all racial, religious and cultural backgrounds. Multiple time options are available to families to accommodate an array of schedules. 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 school’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 is an introduction to
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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. Rudolf Steiner School Lower School (2s-grade 6) 15 E. 79th St. (347)334-5783 msussman@steiner.edu www.steiner.edu Rudolf Steiner School Upper School (grades 7-12) 15 E. 78th St. (347)289-7565 smargles@steiner.edu www.steiner.edu Rudolf Steiner students are inspired by an education that nurtures imagination through the foundations of humanities, science, math and arts. Innovative teaching methods, which are attuned to young people’s stages of physical, emotional, and mental development, strengthen and expand their individual capacities to help them develop clarity, balance, and ingenuity. Steiner students gain knowledge and insight by cultivating the imagination, discovering knowledge and learning how to learn. Engaging the hands, head and heart creates a love of learning, and produces well-rounded, confident students, who are prepared for the 21st century, whether it is in science, math, language arts, history, athletics and the fine and performing arts. Founded in 1928, New York’s Rudolf Steiner School is North America’s first Waldorf School. In the past
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Twin Parks Montessori Schools Central Park Montessori School 1 West 91st St., NYC 10024 (212)595-2000 enroll@twinparks.org Park West Montessori School 435 Central Park West, NYC 10025 Seton Day Care Center & Elizabeth Seton Preschool (212)678-6072 245 E. 92nd St, NYC 10128 pwadmissions@twinparks.org (212)369-9626 Riverside Montessori School susanp@nyfoundling.org 202 Riverside Dr., NYC 10025 www.nyfoundling.org/elizabeth-seton-day-care-and-prechool (212)665-1600 Children from 2 months-6 years of age and their families feel admissions@twinparks.org at home at Seton Day Care Center & Pre-School. Established 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 www.twinparks.org in 1972 by the New York Foundling as a community service One School. Three campuses— Twin Parks Montessori Schools are program, this warm, personalized environment allows chilaccredited by the American Montessori Society and the Middle States dren to thrive as they engage in a variety of developmentally tO: FAx # Commission on Elementary Schools, are members of NYSAIS, the appropriate experiences. Based on the Montessori approach, Parents League and ISAAGNY, and are affiliate schools of Columbia the program fosters individual expression through opportuniFrOm: ties presented for creative exploration, iSSueproblem-solving DAte: University. Twin Parks Montessori Schools provide nurturing, childand a centered settings for children ages 3 months-6 years. Each site offers sense of community. Seton demonstrates quality child care by a 10 month program with the option of a Summer Camp and the Park combining the comforting aspects of home life with a chalPlease call or fax your and/or West location offers a 12 month program which includes summer camp lenging learning program that iscomments cultivated by a staff OK. who is and fewer days off throughout the year. The schools are committed to responsive to children’s emerging needs and interests. Rigorbuilding and fostering a community of lifelong learners using proven ous standards for staffing, low staff-child ratios and a welSigNAture OF APPrOvAl: Montessori methodology, which has been successful for the past 100 coming environment for parents are hallmarks of a program years. While focusing on helping children master language, math and that serves to support children’s optimal growth and developsensorial experience at age-appropriate levels, the schools simultament. As an affiliate of The American Montessori Society and neously nurture the development of conscious, caring and compasa member of ISAAGNY, Seton is used as a learning facility for sionate human beings. Twin Parks Schools are among Manhattan’s students and intern Montessori teachers. five years, China has opened more than 200 Waldorf Schools, and today there are more than 1,000 Waldorf schools in 83 countries worldwide. Visit steiner.edu, and then tour the facilities to learn more about the Waldorf learning philosophy, and why it is the fastest growing education worldwide.
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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 6th 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
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EDUCATION DIRECTORY most spacious preschools. Twin Parks offers rich and varied environments— from individual activity tables to open floor areas promoting 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.
Programs A.C.T. Early Years Cathedral of St. John the Divine 1047 Amsterdam Ave., NYC 10025 (212)316-7530 www.actprograms.org A.C.T. Early Years has been providing the very youngest family members with a warm and friendly introduction to school since 1985. Through play, learning and making friends, this program creates a solid foundation for school years and life. PlayStation offers children ages 5 and under climbing toys, slides, soft blocks, ramps, tunnels and balls - when it’s too cold to be outside. One-to-one is a most gentle introduction to school free from separation anxiety. Choose from among 12, 90-minute sessions per week, each held in A.C.T.’s tot-friendly gym where your child can run, jump, climb and roll. Activities also include singing, dancing and listening to stories at Circle. Take part in creative projects and to meet other parents and teachers. You and your child go home with a healthy I-made-it-myself snack. First Step Nursery is a mixed-age setting for parents who seek the secure pleasure of
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home and the exciting challenge of school for their youngster. Children discover independence in a stimulating, friendly environment where nurturing a love of school is paramount. Classes meet two or three mornings each week. The A.C.T. Preschool is ideal for children ready for a five-day per week schedule. Small classes and seasoned teachers assure high quality attention. Creative activities encourage pre-reading and early math skills, self-expression and an insightful, confident sense of self. Start the New Year off right with extended camp reunion activities for friends and neighbors who are looking to explore and learn more about programs at ACT. Get in on the excitement from noon-4pm on January 10. Asphalt Green Upper East Side 555 E. 90th St. NYC 10128 (212)369-8890 Battery Park City 212 North End Ave., NYC 10282 (212)298-2900 www.asphaltgreen.org From swim to gym, Asphalt Green has something for everyone in the family. With first-class campuses on the Upper East Side and Battery Park City, Asphalt Green is the home to world-class swim, sports and fitness programs. Children 4 months and older can take swim classes progressing from a warm-water, moveable-bottom teaching pool to a deep-water indoor lap pool. From toddlers to the elite athletes on competitive teams, players of all levels and abilities can achieve their best in sports, including soccer, basketball, flag football, gymnastics and more. With
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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
A CLASSIC A EDUCATION clAssic
educAtion for the 21st CENTURY st 21 century leArner 319 east 74th street - new york, ny 10021 www.cathedralschoolny.org • tel: 212-249-2840 • Nursery - 8th Grade • Co-educational, small classes, diverse student body • High School Preparation & Beyond - graduates placed in the city’s best schools • Highly Qualified Faculty • Scholarships Available • Modern Greek taught from Nursery School; Ancient Greek & Latin taught in 7th & 8th Grades • Extended Day Enrichment Program/Greek Afternoon School • An accomplished Independent School, with strong Hellenic & Orthodox roots • OPEN HOUSES, rolling admissions your needs, your neighborhood
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EDUCATION DIRECTORY Family and Passport Memberships available, parents can receive benefits including preferred pricing and registration for kids and adult classes and access to both first-class campuses. Visit asphaltgreen.org for more information.
dents must audition for this division. The distinguished faculty, led by artistic director Darla Hoover, is comprised of instructors with years of teaching experience, most having danced with major companies. Two annual performances in February and May prepare the Pre-Professional students for a life in a professional company. BAE offers teens and adults a full schedule of all levels in ballet, tap, jazz, Zumba, modern, yoga and Pilates classes. The facility has five air-conditioned studios, dressing rooms with showers and lockers, and a Capezio Dancewear Boutique. All classes, have piano accompaniment.
Ballet Academy East 1651 3rd Ave., NYC 10128 (212)410-9140 info@baenyc.com www.balletacademyeast.com Ballet Academy East, with more than 35 years of experience, offers excellent programs for children and adults of all ages and Ballet Club abilities. The Young Dancers Division (18 months-6 years) is 328 E. 61st St., Second Floor, NYC 10065 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 incorporates learning, creativity, musicality, and fun. In Petit (212)204-6348 Dancers classes (18 months-2 years), children and a parent/careinfo@theballetclub.com tO: giver share the joy of music and movement. FAx # Pre-Ballet classes www.theballetclub.com (ages 3-6) introduce ballet in a positive and creative environThe Ballet Club is a unique program that offers professional ment. The syllabus prepares young students for a future in ballet training in a nurturing environment, as well as a foundation of FrOm:training, while inspiring a love of dance.iSSue DAte:modern classTap and life skills and intellectual stimulation. It includes the Children’s es are also offered for ages 3½-5½. Primary Classes (ages 6-7) Creative Dance Club Division for ages 2-8, and the Performprepare students for the requirements of Level 1 within the Preing Arts Pre-Professional Division for ages 7-teens. It strives Please call orThe faxPre-Professional your comments and/or Professional Division. Division (agesOK. 7to provide the very best quality of ballet training, instilling in 19), provides students every opportunity to achieve their highest students a love of learning, and class size is limited to ensure potential and aspirations within a nurturing environment. Stuindividual attention. The Ballet Club has a holistic approach SigNAture OF APPrOvAl: 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 body-space awareness, musicality, master locomotive and nonlocomotive skills, gain physical conďŹ dence, and explore the use
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“A NEW A.C.T. milestone Sights, Sounds & Sensory class for toddlers (9 - 16 months).� Opening its 8th Grade Class in September 2015
Nursery thru 7th grade
First Steps Register NOW for Classes t 2 - 48 mos t 36 mos t 38 mos t 38 mos t 60 mos t 66 mos
Winter Indoor Playstation One to One Classes NEW! Drop-off Classes Learning new skills on their own Nursery Sections Pre-School Summer Camp
From 12 mos - 5½ yrs t spacious gym with mats t bikes t climbing equipment classrooms t gardens t kitchenette t nature centers and more!
www.a ctprogra ms.org t 212-316-753 0 20 I parentguide News I January 2015
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EDUCATION DIRECTORY of time, space, and energy in dance. Classes in the Performing Arts Pre-Professional Division incorporate classical technique with a modern approach and emphasize technique, creativity, choreography, and performance. For more information, and/or to register, call (917)281-1030 or (212)204-6348, e-mail info@ theballetclub.com, or visit www.theballetclub.com. Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex 23rd Street and Hudson River Park, NYC 10011 (212)336-6800 www.chelseapiers.com Chelsea Piers offers Manhattan’s best and most comprehensive sports programs for children ages 12 months-17 years. State-of-the-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)3366400 features 52 heated, weather-protected hitting stalls on four tiers, a 200-yard hitting fairway, putting greens and two
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indoor Full Swing simulators. 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. Collina Italiana 1556 3rd Ave. #603, NYC 10128 (212)427-7770 info@collinaitaliana.com www.collinaitaliana.com Immerse your family in the wonders of the Italian culture and language without leaving the city with Collina Italiana. Set in the Upper East Side, the Italian classes allow child and adult students to benefit from a comprehensive approach to learning in an ageappropriate and inviting atmosphere. Classes for children, which consist of three to eight students, include Girotondo, il Giardino dei Bambini, Create, Act & Draw and Italian Summer in the City. In Girotondo (circle), children ages 2-8 gather around to share learned words and expressions through playful, skill-building activities such as games, songs, dances and stories. Arts and crafts enhance the sessions. Group and private classes for older children, along with tutoring services, are available weekdays and Saturdays. Il Giardino Dei Bambini is a drop-off playgroup for kids ages 2-5. Children may join in on the fun every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9am-noon on an as-needed basis. With direction mostly in Italian, children also stencil, print Tshirts, as well as make puppets or a theater set, depending on their ages. For Create, Act, Draw, an Italian Art workshop, children ages 3-5 and 7-11 write stories, poems and paint. For the Sum-
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JUNIOR DIVISION
Photos: Eduardo Patino, NYC
For a tour of our school, please submit an application
Please inquire about our current openings for the 2014-2015 school year. FIRST STEPS Ages 3-6 BOUNDING BOYS Ages 4-6 Creative movement classes
PRE-PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM Ages 7-17 Ballet, modern, West African, and more
For class information, e-mail: juniordivision@alvinailey.org
TheAileySchool.edu
The Ailey School is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Dance and is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant alien students.
your needs, your neighborhood
January 2015I parentguide News I 21
EDUCATION DIRECTORY mer, Collina Italiana offers “Italian Summer in the City 2015� , the program designed for kids who want to absorb the warm and lively culture of Italy. Have fun Italian style: Learn and practice Italian, meet new friends, and enjoy a unique summer in the city (June 8 - July 17 and August 10 - September 4). For all the bellissimi details on Collina Italiana, including Italian language, culture, cuisine, wine classes for adults and summer camp (one-two or three weeks), call the Italian instructors today.
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it is important in the “JaĂŤll Methodâ€? to use the most natural of positions in search for the true musical movement. The purpose of French School Technique is to teach and develop the musical capabilities of each individual, to give the young pupil the proper means of achieving pianistic excellence.
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Karma Kids Yoga 25 W. 23rd St., Third Floor, NYC 10010 (646)638-1444 French School Technique downdog@karmakidsyoga.com (347)844-3131 www.karmakidsyoga.com www.frenchschooltechnique.com At Karma Kids Yoga, children practice fun-filled yoga poses and Learn the French technique of piano playing today! School breathing exercises to promote physical strength and flexibility, Technique comes from the “JaĂŤll Methodâ€? of the late 1800’s, concentration, focus and attention, inner strength and body awarecreated with Marie JaĂŤll’s research and experience in France ness, confidence and self-esteem, relaxation and self-control, a under the mentorship of Franz Liszt. “Marie JaĂŤll has the brains feeling of well-being and respect for others, and love for one’s self, of a philosopher and the fingers of an artist,â€? Franz Liszt cominside and out. In a fun environment, children play yoga by imitatmented upon meeting Marie JaĂŤll and becoming her lifetime ing animals and nature, and by using creative expression, games, mentor. Her pedagogic vision was to combine the emotional music, art and storytelling. Fun, inspirational and playful classes enand spiritual act of creating beautiful music with the physicourage a child’s natural thirst for knowledge with engaging songs, ological aspects of tactile, additive, and visual sensory. With games, self-expression and stories that exercise social, sensory and physiologist specialist Dr. Charles FĂŠrĂŠ assisting her research, motor skills while increasing flexibility. Children will strengthen JaĂŤll revolutionized piano technique to connect the mind their bodies as they learn how to focus through breathing and relax419Mrs. Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 and body through educating the sensitivity of the hand, with ation techniques. Kids sing, draw and play yoga in energy-releassensory emphasis leading to an education of the ears. Modern ing and age-appropriate classes. And check out Karma Kids Yoga’s to: FAx # neuroscience research has revealed how far the senses influnew CD of yoga music for children, Come Play Yoga! Classes ofence our way of thinking and learning as we think with the fered are: Prenatal Yoga, Mom & Baby, Toddler (Parent & Child), From: human body! As any wrong muscular iSSue representations DAte: of arms Kids, Teens, GLOGA Yoga, CircusYoga, Family Yoga and Free and hands may cause permanent damages to the pupil’s body, StoryTime Yoga. Private classes are also available. Special events
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Kids Korner Kids Korner Kidss Korner Please call or fax your comments and/or oK.
Nursery & Pre K Programs Open year round September - June 8:30 am-5:30 pm July & August 9:00 am-5:00 pm
SigNAture oF APProvAl:
Celebrating
NAEYC Accredited
20 Y ears
NEW! Summer 8:30-2:00 PRE-K PROGRAM
preschool
OPEN HOUSE TOURS Summer Camp I (3 weeks):
Camp 2013
FOR 2015/2016 ADMISSIONS: July 8th-July 26th Summer Camp II (3 weeks):
January 13th • January 20th
(212) 229-9340 229-9340 (212)
July 29th-August 16th
By appointment only Accepting applications for the Now2013-2014 Accepting Applications. school year.
www.thekidskornerpreschool.com www.kidskorner.nyc
R A OUT YE S 41
R!
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.nyfoundling.org/elizabeth-seton-day-care-and-preschool 245 East 92nd Street • (212) 369-9626 22 I parentguide News I January 2015
BEST CHILDREN’S ARTS CLASS New York Magazine Best of New York 2000
opera n’ art holiday camps manga, painting gallery hops sculpture + more!
HiArt! www.hiartkids.com
212-209-1552 917-318-9499
Fabulous NEW studio!
Tots to Teens
CULTURE BUGS Summer Camp
HiArt!
The only thing greater than a child’s imagination is your help in supporting it.
! Give Now. Give GeNerously. www.timeinkids.org 212-209-1552 Changing The world. one Child aT a Time.
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EDUCATION DIRECTORY and yoga birthday parties and Teacher Training, too! Call the number above or visit online at www.karmakidsyoga.com. Kids at Art 1412 Second Ave., NYC 10021 (212)410-9780 wendy@kidsatartnyc.com www.kidsatartnyc.com Kids at Art focuses on the basics of visual arts, with age-appropriate projects for each group from 2+ years of age— painting, drawing, sculpture, mosaics and much more. Classes are limited in size so that each child receives individual attention. Kids at Art Birthday Parties are also available and are known to be the most fun and creative in format. Some of our new classes include Jewelry Making and Printmaking, as well as Fashion and Sewing, offered by “The Fashion Class�. At Kids at Art the process is just as important as the finished project. Kids at Art is available for private art class for five to ten children, one time or once a week! Summer Camp and Holiday Workshops are also available. During these periods the class focuses on more involved projects, such as mask-making, puppet-making, paper-mache, clay and plaster. Please see website for schedules and more information.
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afternoons, evenings, Saturdays, and vacations, in libraries, community centers, or in-class at schools to supplement the art curriculum. Programs are designed around a theme, technique, or material, allowing children to develop an appreciation, as well as the abilities for critical thinking, self-expression, problem solving, imagination, and creativity. Hands-on activities, combined with a bit of whimsy and wackiness from the Gogh Art creativity crew, art explorers think outside of the box, making connections with the colorful world around them. Visit the website to learn more about art classes, workshops, Family ArtFests, summer programs, and vacation/holiday programs. Don’t forget about birthday parties. The Gogh Art creativity crew travels to your party location bringing party hosts, glitter tattoo artists, and more. Tailor each party to your birthday child’s interests.
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Little Picasso NYC 313 E. 61st St., NYC 10065 (646)559-1588 www.littlepicassonyc.com Little Picasso NYC is a children’s art studio. It is a place where children can have fun, get messy, create, and experiment with studio and visual arts. The youngest group of children being 2-years-old and older, as there are no limits in age, are taught to think outside the box and venture into their own magical world of pure imagination while exposed to studio skills at their age appropriate level. The educators believe that traditional art methods implemented for children, including coloring books and adult-manufactured stencils, simply stifle children’s artistic development. At Little Picasso’s classes and programs, young artists use colors, photos, shapes, dough, texture, animals, cut-and-paste, sculpting, drawing, sketching, and much
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Let’s Gogh Art, NYC (917)704-0102 www.nyletsgoghart.com Let’s Gogh Art is a mobile, creative arts enrichment company delivering unique and imaginative classes, workshops, events, and programs in single or multi-week sessions. These programs cater to budding artists ages 2-12 years and can be scheduled for weekday
HudsonWay
Winter-Spring Semester Summer Classes Full Day Summerdance Program
IMMERSION SCHOOL
EST. 2005
Formerly BILINGUAL BUDS
BALLET ACADEMY EAST
Celebrating 10 Years!
Pre-Professional Ballet Division Ages 7-18 Boys’ Scholarship Program
Pre-Ballet, Tap and Modern Ages 3-6
Now Enrolling for Preschool & K-5
Petit Dancers
Did you know? Immersion students have:
Ages 18 months - 2 years
Higher test scores Superior cognitive skills Better job prospects Advanced speaking, reading and writing skills in Mandarin or Spanish
All Levels - Start Anytime
Open House Thursday, January 15th @ 9:30am To RSVP or schedule a Private Tour, visit www.hwis.org or call (212) 787-8088
Preschool (ages 2+)
Day School (K-5)
After School
Summer Camp
Mandarin Chinese • Spanish • English Learn More at www.hwis.org 175 Riverside Boulevard • New York, NY • (212) 787-8088
your needs, your neighborhood
Adult Open Classes Ballet, Tap, Zumba, Jazz, Modern, Pilates and Yoga
SUMMERDANCE
March Session March 16-26
1651 Third Avenue New York, NY 10128 t JOGP!CBFOZD DPN XXX CBMMFUBDBEFNZFBTU DPN January 2015I parentguide News I 23
P
EDUCATION DIRECTORY more to discover their inner Picasso. Through multimedia expression, your child is encouraged to be an innovative thinker, problem solver, effective communicator, creative entrepreneur, a leader of the future, and a sharing and caring individual with an emotionally balanced and healthy mind. It is not an arts and crafts establishment. It is an artists studio for budding young artists. Learn more about the specific offerings on the Little PIcasso NYC’s website. Physique Swim School Leman Manhattan Prep (Lower School) 41 Broad St., NYC Village East Swim Club 411 E 10th St., NYC 333 E 66th St. St. Bartholomew’s Church 109 E. 50th St., NYC Hunter College North Building - 695 Park Ave., NYC Yorkshire Towers 305 E 87th St., NYC Mercedes Club 550 W. 54th St., NYC Dunlevy Milbank Center 14-32 W. 118th St., NYC (212)725-0939 info@physiqueswimming.com www.physiqueswimming.com Physique Swimming provides the perfect opportunity to learn and master the art of swimming. With step-by-step instructions
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and a focus on safety, students gain confidence in the water and develop efficient technique in all four strokes. Classes are available for all ages and skill levels, from beginners who’ve never been in the pool, to experienced swimmers seeking an edge for their for swim teams. Physique Swim has a range of classes for adults as well, for those who’ve just never had the opportunity to learn and those training for triathlons. They even offer a parent and child class, Me and My Shadow, for young children ages 4 months to 3 years. With locations all over New York and New Jersey, and a flexible schedule that puts you first, this opportunity cannot be missed. At Physique’s Summer Day Camp in Lower Manhattan, campers enjoy instructional swims daily with organized pool activities. Outside the pool, campers are engaged body and mind by playing soccer, making arts and crafts, learning to cook, and even performing science experiments. Discover the best kept secret swim school and camp in NYC! Find them on the web, www.physiqueswimming. com or call (212)725-0939 for more information.
Proof
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
The Parents League O F
N E W
Y O R K
WE KNOW SCHOOLS
Poppyseed Pre-Nursery 424 W. End Ave., NYC 10024 (212)877-7614 info@poppyseedprenursery.com www.poppyseedprenursery.com Delight your child’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
YOUR Child Can Do This! Register for Winter/Spring 2015 Classes Begin January 5th
• Mondays-Fridays OR Weekend Classes • Starting from Age 2 & Up • Holiday Workshops Fall/Winter • Private & Semi Private “Healing through Art”
Preschool s Kindergarten s Lower Grades Upper Grades s Special Needs Schools Boarding Schools s Publications s Lectures Panel Discussions s School Fairs Connecting families with independent schools for over 100 years
Become a Member
www.parentsleague.org
212-737-7385 24 I parentguide News I January 2015
LittlePicassoNYC.com Children’s Art Studio
313 East 61st Street 646.559.1588 parentguidenews.com
EDUCATION DIRECTORY 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 child’s growth. Please call for more information.
Proof
RoboFun
vast possibilities in educational standards. RoboFun operates after-school programs and trains teachers from more than 50 NYC schools and at their Upper West Side studio location. Students involved in the workshops walk away with a great sense of accomplishment, having learned how to problem solved and grasp large concepts, applicable to various subjects and disciplines. SciTech Kids 30 E. 60th Street, Suite 905, NYC 10022 Afterschool and Weekend Programs: NY Junior League, All Souls Church and Pine Street School www.sci-techkids.com SciTech Kids, an innovative STEM (Science,Technology, Engineering, and Math) provider, sparks a child’s innate curiosity and creativity through rich, hands-on, captivating experiences that bring science and technology to life. Designed for children ages 3-15, SciTech Kids inspires kids to think like scientists, inventors and innovators. SciTech Kids turns the idea of learning STEM on its head. Kids learn scientific concepts by “doing science� that is connected to everyday life. With activities ranging from conducting chemical reactions, to launching rockets, to exploring the human body, to tinkering with circuits, SciTech Kids are taught the fundamentals of STEM. “Our students never look at science the same way again,� says Kim Magloire, president of Sci-Tech Kids.“ This winter, we have integrated 3D printing, robotics, coding and e-textiles into our curriculum. SciTech Kids classes are held at the NY Junior League at 130 E. 80th St., All Souls Church and Pine Street School.
Proof
2672 Broadway, Loft A, NYC 10025 • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 (212)245-0444 robofun@vemny.org www.robofun.org RoboFun provides after-school programs and workshops for children ages 3-12 in technology and multimedia. Beyond creative thinking, children pick up real-world skills in engineering and coding. With expert guidance, they build and program robots, design and code video games, and make and direct stop-motion animations. These hands-on projects encourage students to think creatively and through a lens of innovation, apply concepts, and actively construct meaning. The mission of RoboFun is to inspire students and instructors to construct solutions and address the
Seriously Art-Rageous fun! The mobile art program that brings the fun to you!
ARE SCIENTISTS COOL? OUR KIDS THINK SO AND HAVE A BLAST AT
SCITECH KIDS
WINNER OF WHITE HOUSE STUDENT FILM FESTIVAL
Winter is a great time for kids to explore the wonders of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math). SciTech Kids sparks a child’s innate curiosity and creativity about science through rich, hands-on captivating experiences. Whether an Explorer (ages 3-5) Adventurer (ages 6-8) or Investigator (ages 9-12) SciTech Kids inspires kids to think like scientists. Working alongside real scientists, our kids are involved in authentic scientific inquiry that changes both the way they see themselves and the world.
For more information:
t BIRTHDAY PARTIES t ART CLASSES, PLAYDATES and GROUP EVENTS
t GLITTER TATTOO ARTISTS, FACE PAINTERS and STORY ART-VENTURES!
XXX OZMFUTHPHIBSU DPN t 917.704.0102 your needs, your neighborhood
212.804.7055 or www.sci-techkids.com
BUDDING SCIENTISTS ENJOY TOPICS INCLUDING: •
Microscopic organisms
•
3D printing
•
Photosynthesis
•
How the Body Works
•
Chemical Reactions
•
Robotics
•
Electric Circuits
•
Upcycling
•
Architecture
•
Coding
AND MORE
WINTER 2015 JAN 7 – APRIL 16
12 WEEKS NY JUNIOR LEAGUE 130 E. 80TH STREET and other locations
January 2015I parentguide News I 25
by Andrea Beaty
Girls&
Why we need more females in certain fields. hat is the big deal about STEM and girls? In a nutshell, the world has massive challenges that require Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) solutions. However, we don’t have enough scientists, tech experts, engineers or mathematicians to fix these concerns. While males enter STEM career fields in strong numbers, females simply don’t. Girls’ interest in STEM subjects often peaks in grades four and five, then declines through middle school and beyond. So, what can be done to foster more female affinity for STEM? Helping young girls engage in science and math in an everyday kind of way builds a lifelong love. This encouragement keeps girls involved even when peer pressures rise and competing interests take center stage. Even if your career background doesn’t lie in a STEM area, you can still easily enable your child to connect to science, technology, engineering, and math in meaningful ways. In fact, your participation in your child’s exploration can be as easy as 1, 2, 3!
1
First, model the behavior you want to see. Kids who watch their parents read are more likely to become readers themselves. The same concept holds true for STEM learning. Sharing your wonder and curiosity about the world is the single greatest thing you can do to help your daughter become excited about discovery, which is at the very heart of STEM. Make STEM part of your daily conversation. You don’t need a degree in science to follow scientific advances and discuss them with your daughter. Just show her that you are interested in this type of news. Discuss what you learn and — more importantly — the questions that arise in the process. Use these inquiries as springboards to discovery. 26 I parentguide News I January 2015 SK 1/15
2
Second, practice science and engineering! Science isn’t really about lab coats, clipboards, and inaccessible terminology. It’s about the process of discovery and problem solving. Your daughter’s world is already filled with science. Help her dig deeper into it and understand what is going on when she cooks (chemistry), gardens (botany), or takes care of the fish (zoology). Your local librarian or indie bookseller can lead you and your family to many wonderful and inspiring books on these subjects. Hunt online for easy experiments that you and your child can perform together. Also try to invent something to solve a problem in your house or garden. For example, consider how you can keep squirrels off of the bird feeder, and then plan out these scenarios in detail. Build and test potential designs. When some of them fail (as most inventions do), celebrate these moments as important steps in the learning process. Keep trying! Helping your child learn to embrace failure is essential to success in STEM and every aspect of life.
3
Finally, change the dialogue. We must shift the focus of common conversations we have with girls from how they look to what they do. Asking girls what they make and what interests them challenges them in a positive way. It’s fine for a young girl to want to become a princess, but why not enparentguidenews.com
courage her to become an princess and engineer or scientist? Get her thinking about what she can invent or build to improve her imaginary castle and the lives of her royal subjects. Girls are, of course, smart and tough, and they respond well to challenges. Provide your daughter with such character- and knowledge-building opportunities. Make your child aware of women and men who follow their own paths. As Lindsey Shepard of GoldieBlox (a toy company seeking to inspire the next generation of female engineers) says, “Hire a female plumber, draw attention to male nurses, start using the term ‘police officer’ instead of ‘police man.’ PointLike out women in technical jobs and positions of authority. Don’t be afraid to overcorrect; the world does a good job of setting them back to neutral on its own.” www.facebook.com/parentguidenews Not every girl will grow up to become an astrophysicist or mechanical engineer and nor will every boy. We don’t need them to do so, but we give our children a better chance at finding their own path — whatever that might be — if we help them embrace STEM and learning early on in life.
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Andrea Beaty is the New York Times bestselling author of Rosie Revere, Engineer (Harry N. Abrams); Iggy Peck, Architect (Harry N. Abrams); and Attack of the Fluffy Bunnies (Amulet Paperbacks). Beaty presents lectures to thousands of school kids every year to share her love of writing and STEM. She acts as an advocate for girls in STEM and for the global education of girls. Visit her at www.andreabeaty.com.
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your needs, your neighborhood
January 2015 I parentguide News I 27
Sensory by Louise Weadock
Learning How to help development.
Children learn and retain knowledge most successfully by engaging their senses. In doing so, they develop crucial academic, athletic, cognitive, physical, creative, linguistic, and social skills. Recent research shows that sensory play and learning is essential to the process of developing the key skills required for advanced knowledge. Parents can help develop sensory learning by encouraging their children, particularly those with special needs, to respond to what they see, smell, hear, touch, taste, and feel. Parents can effectively use observation, experimentation, and problem solving — a.k.a. sensory play — to lay the groundwork for life in the classroom and the world at large.
Consistency and predictability are key to the success of a child’s sensory learning and play. Our ability to learn and perform is dependent upon how consistently our nervous system processes the same stimuli in the same way so that it is predictable. Routinely engaging your routinely in sensory-stimulating activities within an environment that arouses curiosity and exploration is a crucial part of the learning process. Encourage sensory play with the following suggestions to foster certain skills. 1. Cognitive skills may be practiced with counting, sequencing, sorting, constructing, and scientific activities. Problem-solving activities (such as molding an animal out of clay, making something float, digging in the sand to create a swimming pool, etc.) are a critical part of this learning process. 2. Social skills increase as children master what they are trying to achieve during sensory play. They become self-confident and feel in control of what they’ve accomplished, and this motivates children to learn more. In addition, children learn important life skills like cooperation and teamwork through sensory play. 3. Physical and athletic skills that emphasize fine and gross motor skills develop through sensory play, too. Mixing, measuring, and digging encourage fine motor development, while running, rolling, and throwing develops gross motor skills. 4. Creativity may be fostered through fantasy and make-believe scenarios, as well as exploratory/discovery activities inside and outside your home. The possibilities for fun and learning are endless! 5. Linguistic skills emerge as children seek to express themselves during sensory play. Discovering a “creepy” bug, a “yummy” fruit, or a “screeching” sound are all part of the journey toward an expanded vocabulary. Let’s break down the process even further. How can parents create an effective sensory play environment that incorporates the basic five senses, as well as the sense of self-in-space? 1. A child’s taste buds change every two weeks, so make sure to vary taste experiences continuously. Do this through fun cooking activities, with edible play dough, etc. 2. Sensory play that focuses on hearing can include playing and listening to music, guessing sounds, experimenting with volume, and playing games like Musical Chairs. 3. Stimulate the sense of smell to help a child produce memories, recognize objects, and socialize. Kids can experiment with cooking using different scented spices and sauces. Or they can go on an outdoor scavenger hunt in search of scents from fauna like flowers, trees, and leaves. 4. For sensory play focusing on touch, you’ll find opportunities inside and outdoors to feel tingles, tickles, and soothing touches.
28 I parentguide News I January 2015
MB 1/15
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There’s a world of interesting textures in your kitchen (whipped cream), your bathroom (shaving cream), and outdoors (pine cones). 5. We are surrounded each day with a world of color and visual stimulation. Peek-a-Boo and I Spy are some fun games to play with your child to enhance visual input. You can also create interactive activities with balloons, food coloring, flashlights, etc. 6. Kinesthetic stimulation refers to the the sense of self-in-space, which can help build athletic coordination when heightened. The development of this vital sense even enables us to walk in the dark without falling. It’s our sense of position and posture, movement and velocity as the vestibular system works to give us the smooth movements we need to perform everyday tasks. Help your child develop his athletic coordination and ability to stay balanced by encouraging the use of muscles. Create an obstacle course. Play running games and races. Try Leap Frog and Hopscotch. Have your child push a shopping cart at the supermarket and help with household chores, like sweeping and doing the laundry, to better his sense of self-in-space. Providing children withs varied, interesting opportunities to use their senses is critical to the development of their intellectual, athletic, and social selves. As parents, it is our responsibility to ensure that children are regularly encouraged in their sensory play and learning, and that they consistently have access to an array of sensory experiences and materials. Louise Weadock is a Registered Child Psychiatric Nurse; 30-year ASD/SID researcher; and the founder of 16,000-square-foot family gym, WeeZee… World of “Yes I Can!” at 480 Bedford Road, Chappaqua, NY. Weadock recently launched an autism/sensory learning research nonprofit, Sensory Bullets, for the purposes of researching the equipment featured at WeeZee gym. Learn more at www.weezeeworld.com.
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your needs, your neighborhood
January 2015 I parentguide News I 29
by Dr. Francine Rosenberg
What is
Trichotillomania?
M
How this hair-pulling disorder affects millions of people.
any young girls and grown women play with their hair. Often, they unconsciously twirl it around a finger, especially when they’re bored or tired. It’s a harmless habit. Of more consequence is trichotillomania, a disorder characterized by a recurrent, irresistible urge to pull hair out of the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and other parts of the body, resulting in noticeable bald patches. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, trichotillomania may affect as much as 4 percent of the population. Although it may be triggered or worsened by stress, trichotillomania is not just a nervous habit. In some people, the disorder is mild and manageable, but for many others, the compulsion to pull out hair is overwhelming. If not treated, trichotillomania can have serious consequences for health and well-being.
SK 1/15
30 I parentguide News I January 2015
Understanding trichotillomania Trichotillomania is generally classified as an impulse control disorder, meaning it is driven by an uncontrollable impulse or urge to perform a harmful act. The individual feels increasing tension that can only be relieved by performing the act; afterward, there is often a sense of shame or regret. Depression and anxiety are common among those with trichotillomania, as are other body-focused repetitive disorders such as skin picking or nail biting. If a family member is experiencing signs of trichotillomania, recognize that it is not about inflicting pain. Rather, those with trichotillomania have a neurologically driven need to pull. And the pulling may act as an immediate soothing mechanism, but repeated episodes of hair pulling and the disfigurement that results can cause significant distress. It isn’t known exactly what causes trichotillomania, but there may be a genetic component to the disorder; having a close relative who is affected by it increases an individual’s risk. An imbalance in the brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine might play a role. Trichotillomania usually develops between the ages of 11 and 13. It is also seen in younger children, even as young as age 1, but such cases are often mild and resolve after a year or so without treatment. For those whom trichotillomania is a lifelong disorder, complications include abrasions and infections in the area where the hair is pulled, as well as digestive problems if the hair is eaten. Emotional distress is a significant issue for most people. They may try to style the hair to cover the bald patches, wear hats or wigs, or use false eyelashes to disguise the condition. Embarrassment and shame may cause them to shy away from social opportunities, leading to isolation, low selfesteem, and depression. parentguidenews.com
Treating trichotillomania While medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may reduce some symptoms of trichotillomania, the most effective treatment is a combination of education, medication, and psychotherapy. The most successful results are typically from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), an approach in which patients learn to change their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so they can recognize and manage the impulses that lead to pulling without giving in to them. With CBT, therapists will use a behavioral technique known as Habit Reversal Training, a three-step procedure designed to increase awareness, teach relaxation strategies, and help identify a behavior that is incompatible with the hair pulling. This behavior, known as a “competing response,” often involves using the same muscles as in the hair pulling, but it is more discreet and not easily noticed if done in public. For example, clenching one’s fist and pressing an arm to one’s side are common competing responses for hair pulling.
T
richotillomania can be a stubborn, chronic disorder. For many people, it is a way of dealing with negative emotions such as anxiety, loneliness, or stress, but the embarrassment that results can exacerbate those emotions. Early detection and intervention are important since, with the exception of very young children, the disorder seldom goes away without treatment. Psychotherapy can help manage the emotions and eliminate the impulsive behavior that wreaks havoc with health and quality of life.
Over 50 Articles on
Francine Rosenberg, Psy.D., practices cognitive-behavior therapy. She specializes in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress, depression, anxiety disorders, behavioral disorders, and relationship problems at Morris Psychological Group. Visit www.morrispsych.com and www.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002485/ to learn more.
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January 2015 I parentguide News I 31
Woman oman mom
For the Woman behind the Mom
Positive Self-Talk
Banish negativity to boost confidence. by Beverly D. Flaxington
T
he children are yelling, your mother-in-law is telling you how to parent, and your spouse is asking why the kids are upset again. In the midst of the people “out there” talking to you, are you aware of what you may be saying to yourself? Busy parents are often so focused on what’s going on around them that they pay little attention to what’s going on inside their own heads. The outside noise overrides the inside noise, but unfortunately, it doesn’t drown it out completely. That little voice that says, “I’m a terrible parent. Why do other people seem to have the answers? What’s wrong with my child? Why can’t I do anything to make my kids behave?” is busy chattering to you all of the time. The problem with negative self-talk is that you often don’t even realize it is there. You may think it is natural and normal to say terrible things to yourself. You may think it is useful to be worrying, anticipating, watching everything, and telling yourself stories about how awful things will be. In reality, the negative things you tell yourself are stealing from you. They steal your happiness, your chances to make better decisions, and your emotional (and often physical) energy. You may feel defeated, tired, or just worn out and not know why. You may think you’re fine, but really, the negativity is wearing you down. How do you flip the negative self-talk into something more positive?
It’s not just about putting on rose-colored glasses. It involves the following steps: 1) Recognizing triggers that set off negative talk. 2) Making a decision to ask negative voices to leave. 3) Inviting in more supportive, empowered, and balanced voices. Triggers can sometimes be noticed by physical reactions, such as feeling stressed or tired. They may also manifest emotionally. For example, you may feel down or discouraged and not know why. Speak to your doctor if you suspect a serious condition like depression, however. When reactions to triggers arise, review your internal monologue, taking note of the negative tone it may have been using. Once you recognize the negative voices brought on by triggers, you can choose to tell them to leave. Don’t fight with the negative voices, which are taunting, “You can’t,” just politely ask them to disappear. Say something like, “You are not welcome here. I’m focused on other things.” And then turn your attention to more balanced and positive self-talk. Encourage supportive voices that state, “I’m doing the best job I can do for today. Tomorrow, I may find ways to improve.” Remember that life is a process, not an end game. By recognizing the things that bring you down and replacing them with positive self-talk, you can become empowered. Parenting is a tough enough job as it is. Make sure your self-talk works with you, not against you.
i n s t e o v i Positive t a g e N n r s Tu .
.. R A E H U O Y WHEN “I’m an awful parent.”
“Family gatherings are too hectic.”
“Why do my kids act this way?”
INSTEAD SAY...
“Parenting is a hard job. I work at making the best choices for our family each day.”
“I choose how to host events and enjoy them.”
“Kids struggle to learn sometimes. Everyone has an individual pace. My focus is on teaching them well.”
Beverly D. Flaxington, The Human Behavior Coach ™, is a two-time bestselling author. Her newest book is Self Talk for a Calmer You (Adams Media). She owns and manages a successful consulting business and is the mother of three children.
SK 1/15
32 I parentguide News I January 2015
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Woman oman mom
by Samantha Chan
For the Woman behind the Mom
1 SilverStone Ceramic Bakeware cake, cookie, and loaf pans feature advanced nonstick baking surfaces that resist chipping and ensure long-lasting use. www.silverstone.com
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2 Reduce pain, swelling, and cramping from baby delivery with The MamaStrut by PELV-ICE. It is an adjustable, soft brace device with removable heat/ice therapy that aids with recovery. www.mamastrut.com 3 The Earth Therapeutic Curvaceous Eyelash Curler features a spring action that allows for controlled use during application. www.earththerapeutics.com 4 Dress up your favorite leggings with Hemlets, a cute cuff that can easily be added to any and every pair you wear. www.hemlets.com 5 Pinterest Perfect (Walter Foster Publishing) by Marisa Edghill and Amanda Wright is a collection of artwork, DIY projects, and inspirational designs from the famous social media site. www.qbookshop.com
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IR 1/15
Samantha Chan is the associate editor.
PARENTGUIDE News has an amazing new online concept, and you could be part of the action. We have immediate openings for three Advertising Sales Executives who want to do what they love. That’s all we can say at this time. If you are curious about this opportunity and are looking for a career change or part-time employment, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to hr@parentguidenews.com.
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your needs, your neighborhood
January 2015 I parentguide News I 33
HEALTH 1
by Samantha Chan
3
1 Keep your immune system strong and sugar levels healthy with Orgain’s Healthy Kids Organic Nutritional Shakes. The shakes boast 23 vitamins and minerals, as well as a blend of 10 organic fruits and vegetables. www.orgain.com 2 If your life is touched by mental illness, read Wendy Parmley’s Hope After Suicide: One Woman’s Journey from Darkness to Light (Cedar Fort, Inc.). The tome attempts to reduce the stigma of illness and suicide, making it easier for patients and loved ones to ask for and give help. www.amazon.com
Proof 2
www.parentguidenews.com5 • 212-213-8840
3 Enjoy a tasty burger year round with healthy burger company Cluck ‘N Moo. With a variety of flavors, the company’s half-chicken, half-beef burgers are full of flavor and juiciness. www.clucknmoo.net 4 Take care of your mouth with the Supersmile Gift Set, a whitening system that brings together Supersmile’s best-selling Professional Whitening System with the Advanced Sonic Pulse Toothbrush. Strengthen teeth, kill germs, and whiten without harsh abrasives. www.supersmile.com 5 Rooibee Red Tea Company’s drinks include antioxidants that help fight against heart disease and cholesterol, aid with digestions, and are naturally caffeine free. www.rooibeeredtea.com
IR_Jan
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Nine Tips for Nesting www.parentguidenews.com/Articles/NineTipsforNesting
Projects to tackle before baby arrives.
Speech and Language Problems www.parentguidenews.com/Articles/SpeechandLanguageProblems
Seven ways to help your child speak clearly.
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HEALTH
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6 One way to stay healthy is with easy-to-make, nutrient-rich smoothies! Black and Decker’s FusionBlade offerings include three technologically advanced blenders that are durable, dishwasher safe, and convenient for quickly whipping up treats. www.blackanddecker.com 7 The most cost-efficient way to heat a home has many families using a wood stove. Curb wood-burning and other household pollution with AirFree, a new purifier that sterilizes the air while safely and effectively eliminating dangerous dust particles. www.airfree.com 8 Combat the problems created by sitting in a traditional office chair every day with the Classic Balance Ball Chair from Gaiam. The colorful addition to your office provides ergonomic support for your spine and keeps your core activated. www.gaiam.com
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9 When you’re heading to the gym, stay hydrated with the nutrient- and electrolyte-rich Coco Joy. Made from 100-percent pure green coconuts and excluding added sugar, Coco Joy’s the perfect addition to your gym bag. www.cocojoy.com 10 Runners everywhere love RockMyRun, an awesome app that provides music mixes for any routine to help you to keep going. The app allows your device to monitor your movement and adjust the tempo of the music so that it stays in tune with your routine. www.rockmyrun.com
Samantha Chan is the associate editor.
your needs, your neighborhood
January 2015 I parentguide News I 35
TRAVEL 1
by Donald McDermott
2
3
PROOF
1 Offered in travel-friendly sizes for families on the go, After Bite’s advanced formula ointment provides even faster itch relief for bites from mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and other common insects. www.tendercorp.com/after-bite-the-itch-eraser 2 Providing the ultimate protection while reducing bulkiness for babies, the unique NIDO car seat baby wrap from 7AM Enfant keeps your little ones comfy, cozy, warm, and safe during family road trips and errands around town. http://7amenfant.com/shop/nido/
PROOF
3 Now available at Target, the new Evenflo ProComfort Protection Series of car seats features three models:The Triumph™ LX Car Seat, Symphony™ DLX Car Seat, and the Amp LX High Back™ Booster Seat. www.evenflo.com
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 5
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4 Planning to get away from it all with your little ones? Be sure to pick up Fantastic Beach Toys from Zoe b Organic, a new line of completely biodegradable toys that will help turn your child’s trip from ordinary to extraordinary. www.amazon.com 5 Offering some of the most innovative luggage, bags, and accessories on the market, Eagle Creek travel gear proudly introduces the Docking Duffel. The compact, two-in-one bag is sure to make your next trip easier and more enjoyable. www.eaglecreek.com
Donald McDermott is the managing editor.
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Suffolk
Calendar of Events
Nassau
JANUARY 2015
Proof
Manhattan Open Houses
Queens
Westchester
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
January 7: Twin Parks Montessori: Riverside Montessori School, 202 Riverside Dr., (212)665-1600, www.twinparks.org, 9:30am. RSVP to admissions@twinparks.org. January 8: Twin Parks Montessori: Park West Montessori School, 435 Central Park West, (212)678-6072, www.twinparks.org, 9:30am. RSVP to pwadmissions@twinparks.org. January 10: Rutgers Community Programs, Rutgers Presbyterian Church, 236 W. 73rd St., (212)877 8227, ext. 212, jmoore@rutgerschurch.org, www.rutgerschurch.com, 9:30am-12:30pm. For parents. January 11: Asphalt Green - Upper East Side, 555 E. 90th St. at York Avenue, (212)369-8890, ext. 2084, cdobens@asphaltgreen.org, www. asphaltgreen.org, 11am-12:30pm. January 13: Asphalt Green - Battery Park City, 211 North End Ave., (212)298-2980, ext. 2978, campsagbpc@asphaltgreen.org, asphaltgreenbpc.org/camp, 6-7pm. January 13 and 20: Kid’s Korner Preschool, 247 W. 24th St., (212)229-9340, kidskornernyc@gmail.com, www.thekidskornerpreschool.com. By appointment only. January 15: Hudsonway Immersion School, 175 Riverside Boulevard, (212)787-8088, www.hwis.org, 9:30 am. RSVP to www.hwis.org/visit-us, or
January 2 and 3
January 18
Harlem Globetrotters Amazing Feats of Basketball, Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, www.thegarden.com. The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to town with their unrivaled family show, featuring some of the greatest athletes on the planet. Delight in the incredible displays and tricks. 1pm and noon on respective days.
NYC Audubon Winter EcoCruise: Winter Seals and Waterbirds of NY Harbor, South Street Seaport, Pier 16, 89 South St., www.nywatertaxi.com. Bring the whole family! Keep an eye out for loons, sandpipers, and geese during this trip aboard an eco-friendly vessel. View the Statue of Liberty, the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, and parts of New York Harbor. Circle Hoffman and Swinburne Islands, which are popular sunning spots for seals. The tour is narrated by a NYC Audubon naturalist. Reservations are required and space is limited. Noon.
Proof
JAN. 1 – 4
JAN. 8 – 11
JAN. 15 – 19 288478
Buy Tickets: Ticketmaster.com t 7FOVF #PY 0GGJDFT
your needs, your neighborhood
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January 25
January 2015 I parentguide News I 37
Join the Fun with Come Join the Band!, DROM, 85 Avenue A,
Calendarof Events email admissions and program manager, Kris Garcia at kgarcia@hwis.org. January 19: Deerkill Day Camp, 54 Wilder Road, Suffern, (845)3541466, directors@deerkilldaycamp.com, www.deerkilldaycamp.com. Please call to RSVP. January 20: Academy of St. Joseph, 111 Washington Place, (212)2435420, info@aosj.us, www.academyofsaintjoseph.org, 9-10am. January 29: Purple Circle Day Care, 251 W. 100 St., (212)866-9193, info@purple-circle.org, www.purple-circle.org. Families must apply first.
January 10 and 11 Stella, Queen of the Snow, Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, (212)864-5400, www.symphonyspace.org. The Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia presents this staged production of Stella, Queen of the Snow. Don’t miss the classic story being retold in a thrilling puppetry spectacle by an award-winning children’s theater company. 11am both days.
PROOF
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 January 1-7 Beginning January 1: Karma Kids Yoga’s New Location, 25 W. 23rd St., Third Floor, (646)638-1444, downdog@karmakidsyoga.com, www. karmakidsyoga.com. Children may practice fun-filled yoga poses and breathing exercises to promote physical strength and flexibility, concentration, focus and attention, and inner strength and body awareness, in an all new space. Call or visit online to learn about birthday parties, programs, and more. Daily times vary. January 1: JCC in Manhattan’s New Year’s Day Fitness Fair, JCC in Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., (646)505-5708, jccmanhattan.org/ newyears. Get your family moving at this fun-filled, day-long event, that offers fitness classes like yoga, zumba, martial arts, and more. After
you’ve worked up a sweat, stick around for giveaways and raffle prizes. Pre-registration is recommended. All ages are welcome. 10am-6pm. January 3-25: The Snow Queen, Galli Theater, Gloria Maddox Theater, 151 W. 26th St., (212)731-0668, www.gallitheaterny.com. This adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tells the story of enduring friendship and the journey of a young girl who travels through many lands to rescue her friend, Kay, a young boy who is whisked away by the enchanting Snow Queen. Appropriate for children ages 5 to 9. 2pm.
MB 1/15Hotel Museum and GarJanuary 4: Teddy Bear Tea,COE MountM Vernon den, 421 E. 61st St., www.mvhm.org. Kids and their teddy bears or dolls are cordially invited to an afternoon of fruit tea and cookies with hotel proprietor Mrs. Woodhull, who takes guests time-traveling by sharing stories of the Mount Vernon Hotel dating back to 1830. Appropriate for families with children ages 3 to 6. 1pm. January 6: El Museo Del Barrio Presents The 37th Annual Three Kings Day Parade, El Museo del Barrio, 1230 Fifth Ave., (212)8317272, www.elmuseo.org. Celebrate the final day of Christmas with Honorary Kings, Madrinas, Padrinos, thousands of school children, live camels, gigantic hand-made puppets, and performers who will bring lively music and colorful dancing to the streets of East Harlem. This year’s central theme is “Wellness,” as it relates to mind, body, and spirit, as well as the community. 11am-12:30pm. Through January 7: Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Rockefeller Plaza, Fifth and Sixth Avenues, www.rockefellercenter.com. Last chance to make your annual pilgrimage here to see why everyone loves NYC during the holidays. A chance to gawk at this year’s behemoth, decorated with 45,000 LED bulbs and a Swarovski crystal star is well worth the fighting the crowds.
January 8-14 January 8-10: Winter JazzFest, Various Locations, www.winterjazzfest.com. A convergence of summer festivals used to mark the high 38 I parentguide News I January 2015
parentguidenews.com
January 15-21
point of the NYC jazz calendar, but this annual Winter Jazzfest has become arguably the genre’s top local draw. Celebrating its 11th 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.
Beginning January 17: Everything About a Family (Almost), TADA! Theater, 15 W 28th St., (212)252-1619, www.tadatheater.com. Families love this unique musical with a script and music made almost entirely by kids. Watch the story of a little girl who doesn’t feel like she belongs, so she’ll join another family reunion only to realize her own Parkhas Avenue 13thforFloor, York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 quirky419 family beenSouth, the one her New all along. Appropriate for all ages. Through February 15. Times vary.
January 9-15: Kids’ Night on Broadway, Various Broadway Theatres, www.kidsnightonbroadway.com. This annual event, organized by The Broadway League and presented by the New York Times, invites kids ages 6-18 to see one of a list of fantastic Broadway shows for free, when accompanied by a full-paying adult. The ticket also includes pretheatre activities, restaurant discounts, parking discounts, educational programs, and more. Various showtimes available.
PROOF
•F
tO: 17-19: Civil Rights Weekend Scavenger Hunt, FAx New-York # January
www.parentguidenews.com 212-213-8840 Historical Society, 170 Central Park West, • (212) 873-3400, www.ny-
history.org. In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and the special FrOm:Freedom Journey 1965: Photographs of the Selma iSSue toDAte: exhibition Montgomery March by Stephen Somerstein, families take a deeper look at the courageous people who marched for equal voting rights as they match faces to the names Civil Rights Movement. Pleaseof heroes call orfrom faxtheyour comments and/or For children ages 8 and older. 10am-6pm.
January 10: A.C.T. Cathedral of St. John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave., (212)316-7530, www.actprograms.org. Celebrates the program’s 44th season at the annual Winter Family Festival. Free and open to the general public. See schedule of events for detailed information about the festivities. Noon-4pm.
January 10: American Girl Downward Doll Yoga, Karma Kids Yoga, 25 W. 23rd St., 3rd Floor, (646)638-1444, www.karmakidsyoga.com. Bring your favorite American Girl doll along for this special yoga class which explores pint-sized poses, mini-mudras, bitsy balances, and teensy twists. Kids help their American Girl dolls into yoga poses, partner poses and group poses. For ages 7 and older. Reservations required. 2-3:30pm. Through January 11: Drawn to Language, Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., (212)274-0986, www.cmany.org. Pint-sized Picassos discover artistic works that speak to them— literally. Multimedia pieces featuring letters and words that are visualized, spoken, scrambled or made tO: into symbols or patterns grace the CMA’s galleries, allowing young visitors to explore communication through the visual arts. All ages are welcome.
SigNAture APPrOvAl: January 18: J.P. OF Morgan Tournament of Champions Kids and Family Day, Grand Central Terminal, Vanderbilt Hall, 89 E. 42nd St., (718)5690594, tocsquash.com. The 18th annual Tournament of Champions is back with the world’s best professional squash players. Families and kids receive Dunlop goodie bags, popcorn, athletes’ autographs, and a raffle for the chance to win the opportunity to take a few swings on the with professionals! 419glass Parkcourt avenue South, new York, Noon-4pm. nY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • fax 212-447-7734
frOm:
January 19: MLK Day Winter Vacation Day, RoboFun, 2672 Broadway, Loft A, (212)245-0444, robofun@vemny.org, www.robofun. fax # org. In the mornings, children develop games that are uploaded to the Scratch website so they can continue working on their projects at
iSSue Date:
January 14: Spence-Chapin Adoption Webinar, Modern Family Center at Spence-Chapin, 410 E. 92nd St., (646)539-2167, https://attendee. gotowebinar.com/register/3064074287243819265. Considering adoptPlease call ing? Want to learn about adoption programs at Spence-Chapin? Learn about the current landscape of international and domestic adoption and the needs of the children waiting for adoptive families. DiscussSignature the Of aPPrOval: scope of all Spence-Chapin adoption programs including international and domestic adoption. Bring your questions! 6:30-7:30pm.
January 18 NYC Audubon Winter EcoCruise: Winter Seals and Waterbirds of NY Harbor, South Street Seaport, Pier 16, 89 South St., www.nywatertaxi.com. Bring the whole family! Keep an eye out for loons, sandpipers, and geese during this trip aboard an eco-friendly vessel. View the Statue of Liberty, the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, and parts of New York Harbor. Circle Hoffman and Swinburne Islands, which are popular sunning spots for seals. The tour is narrated by a NYC Audubon naturalist. Reservations are required and space is limited. Noon.
Magical orDave fax your comments and/or OK.
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January 25
Join the Fun with Come Join the Band!, DROM, 85 Avenue A,
OK
Works! 212-213-8840
January 2015 I parentguide News I 39
Calendarof Events home or show their friends and family. Students should be reading on a first grade reading level for Scratch programming. Each participant is asked to bring a nut-free lunch and two snacks. 9am-4pm. January 19: Harlem Gospel Choir: MLK Day Matinee, B.B. King Blues Club and Grill, 237 W. 42nd St., (212)997-4144, www.bbkingblues.com. Honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day with the world-famous Harlem Gospel Choir, who have brought its experience of Harlem and the Black Church in a foot-stomping, hand-clapping, joyous gospel show. Doors open 11:30am, showtime 12:30pm.
January 2 and 3 Harlem Globetrotters Amazing Feats of Basketball, Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, www.thegarden.com. The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to town with their unrivaled family show, featuring some of the greatest athletes on the planet. Delight in the incredible displays and tricks. 1pm and noon on respective days.
January 19: Historic Harlem Walking Tour, Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, January 18 515 Malcolm X Boulevard, (212)491-2200, www. bigonion.com. Take an educational tour around a historic city neighborhood. include: the Abyssinian Baptist Church, Row, and sites NYCStops Audubon Winter EcoCruise: Winter SealsStrivers and Waterbirds associated with authors Zora Neal Hurston and Langston Hughes. of NY Harbor, South Street Seaport, Pier 16, 89 South St., 1pm.
www.nywatertaxi.com. Bring the whole family! Keep an eye out for loons, sandpipers, and geese during this trip aboard an eco-friendly vessel. View the Statue of Liberty, the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, and parts New York Harbor. January 23: Songs of Our Heritage, TheofCity Congregation forCircle Humanistic Hoffman Swinburne Islands, are popular sunning Judaism, St.and John’s, 81 Christopher St.,which (212)213-1002, www.citycongregation.org. Come forThe a secular Shabbat followed bynaturalan evening spots for seals. tour Jewish is narrated by aservice NYC Audubon ofist. Jewish music andare singing led byand popular singer-songwriter Robin GreenReservations required space is limited. Noon.
January 22-31
stein. Pot-luck dessert follows. All welcome. Childcare available. 7:30pm.
January 24: Winter Jam, Naumburg Bandshell, Central Park, 72nd Street, centralparknyc.org, nycgovparks.org. Winter in New York is supposed to be awesome. The Parks Department reminds us why we should love the colder months with this annual winter sports festival. Families can expect to learn or take part in snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowboarding; do animal tracking with the Urban Park Rangers, and more. All ages. 11am.
January 25 Join the Fun with Come Join the Band!, DROM, 85 Avenue A, www.comejointheband.com. Don’t miss this free-wheeling, highenergy, surprise-filled concert showcasing the talents of musicians ranging in age from 4 to 45. Come Join the Band! is joined by musicians from Blue Man Group, The Dirty Sock Funtime Band, and more. Audience members will be encouraged to dance, sing along, and perhaps even help write an original song! 1pm.
January 10 and 11 Stella, Queen of the Snow, Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, (212)864-5400, www.symphonyspace.org. The Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia presents this staged production of Stella, Queen of the Snow. Don’t miss the classic story being retold in a thrilling puppetry spectacle by an award-winning children’s theater company. 11am both days.
01/31/15.
40 I parentguide News I January 2015
January 31 Mission Be Parent Mindfulness Workshop: Bringing Up Mind-
parentguidenews.com
January 31 Mission Be Parent Mindfulness Workshop: Bringing Up Mindful, Happy, Content Kids, The Players Theatre, 115 MacDougal St., third floor, (646)4164341, http://missionbe.org. Parents are invited for an overview of the research behind mindfulness. Learn how simple strategies can improve kids’ happiness, grades, relationships, and health in the home and at school. Mission Be’s engaging workshop covers the development of children from preschool through high school. For more information, contact Osy Harrison by phone. 10am-noon.
0 0 1 $ n i W
r u o Y d r a w To t Child’s Nex y! t r a P y a d Birth Calling All May Birthdays!
January 25: Japan’s New Year’s Celebration: Oshogatsu, Japan Society, 333 E. 47th St., (212)715-1258, www.japansociety.org/event/newyears-celebration-oshogatsu. Celebrate the New Year holiday with live taiko drumming and lion dancing (shishi-mai) and have the chance to participate in a brief taiko practice session. Other fun activities include rice pounding (mochi-tsuki), calligraphy (kakizome), kite (tako)-making, traditional games (fukuwarai), and top spinning (koma-mawashi). Recommended for all ages. 2-4pm.
PARENTGUIDE News wants
January 31: Mission Be Parent Mindful Workshop: Bringing Up Mindful, Happy, Content Kids, The Players Theatre, 115 Macdougal St., (646)416-4341, www.eventbrite.com/e/mission-be-parentmindful-workshop-bringing-up-mindful-happy-content-kids-tickets14086786959. Mission Be hosts this workshop to provide parents with an overview of the research and buzz behind mindfulness, and how simple strategies can improve you and your child’s happiness, grades, relationships, and health in the home and at school. Mission Be’s engaging workshop will cover the development of children from preschool through high school. 10am-noon.
This month’s Birthday Blowout Contest highlights children’s birthdays that occur in May.
January 31: Ben Rudnick and Friends, Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, (212)864-5400, www.symphonyspace.org. This rootsy band from Boston returns to NYC for a morning jam session of happy, upbeat acoustic music. The band’s repertoire blends familiar and original tunes with roots in everything from country to bluegrass, and from rock and roll to second line New Orleans stylings. Singing along is expected! 11am.
to help make your child’s next birthday the
most memorable ever!
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.
Calendarof Events 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
Save BIG at www.parentguidenews.com Turn your child’s special day into something spectacular.
January 2015 I parentguide News I 41
UPDATE 1
by Donald McDermott
3
2
4
7 5
6
8 9
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1 Author Jacque Wick is pleased to present Colorful Cooking: Healthy and Fun Recipes That Kids Can Make (Cedar Fort). Enjoy quality time together with inspiration from the book while getting youngsters to eat more fruits and vegetables. www.barnesandnoble.com
6 Available at www.amazon.com, the innovative, eco-friendly Sleepy Hats from Zoe b Organic are designed to keep baby happily asleep in the stroller, in the car, or on the plane thanks to a fold-down mask that blocks out light. www.zoeborganic.com
2 The stylish FiLIP 2 is a wearable phone, locator, and watch for children ages 4-11. It gives parents the ability to locate their child while still allowing kids the freedom to be kids. www.myfilip.com
7 Retale is a free app that offers in-store sales and promotions for 130 of the top retail brands in the United States. www.retale.com
3 Toddlers to teens who are constantly connected to technology are sure to love PetPods. The adorable plush critters have a Velcro pouch for storing ear buds, as well as a clip for easy fastening. www.educationoutdoors.net/pet-pods 4 In Peeve, My Parents’ Pet (Mirror Publishing), author Tom Ryan offers a humorous look at a young boy’s journey to hunt down Peeve, the mischievous pet his parents so often mention. www.thomaspatrickryan.com 5 Based on the hit Discovery Channel series, the fun Gold Rush Panning Kit includes everything you need to strike gold. www.paydirtgold.com/store/
8 The Stokke® Flexi Bath® is a foldable baby bath specially designed for little ones ages birth to 4 years. Its space-saving design makes it easy to store and convenient to use. www.stokke.com/USA 9 Created to make kids feel comfortable and more secure, the Flexi-Fit Toilet Trainer is a full-size, adjustable toilet training seat that comes complete with a unique squeeze flex action, adjustable prongs, and a full splash guard. www.pourty.com 10 An amazing solution for parents with babies ages 3-11 months old, Hugaboo is a 360-degree support system designed to aid little ones with sitting up. It also provides them with a safe and cuddly environment for playing at ground level. www.myhugaboo.com
Donald McDermott is the managing editor. 42 I parentguide News I January 2015 SK_1/15
Win
KMi K-Board & Kidz Gear Deluxe Stereo Headset Headphones w/ Boom Microphone
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 pic 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 two-item prize package. The KMI K-Board, a portable MIDI USB keyboard available at www.keithmcmillen.com, enables easy and fun music making on your tablet or computer. The Kidz Gear headphones, via www.gearforkidz.com, are tailor made for kids and perfect for educational uses like reading, learning a language, and phonics lessons.
Visit www.parentguidenews.com for contest details.
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