June 2015 Manhattan by PARENTGUIDE News

JUNE 2015

Manhattan Birthday

Parties Made Easy DIY PARTY TREATS

Venues, entertainers and more

Taekwon-Do Aids Special Needs Pointers for Successful

Camp Experience www.parentguidenews.com Over 1,000 M

BEACHES RESORTS’ CARIBBEAN ADVENTURE WITH SESAME STREET ®

YOU’VE NEVER BEEN TO A PARTY LIKE THIS!

Beaches Resorts, in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos, are celebrating ten years of ‘sunny days’ in partnership with Sesame Street ® . Now in addition to spectacular accommodations, up to 19 specialty restaurants, and unlimited land and water sports, families will partake in new and exciting activities incorporated into The Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street ® . From a brand-new character stage show and a Sesame Street Carnival Celebration parade to Sesame Street Puppet Making and Artist Workshops†, Beaches gives families the ultimate Caribbean Luxury Included® Vacation with more ways to connect, learn, and have fun together. Come join the party!

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Sesame Street Puppet Making and Artist Workshops take place Sept. 1 - Oct. 31, 2014. Beaches® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is the affiliate of the worldwide representative of Beaches Resorts.

contents contents

table of

June 2015 Volume 32 • Number 6

Birthday Coverage Sweet Inspiration................... 14 Ideas for showstopping birthday desserts.

June 2015 Volume 32 • Number 6

Contests

P. 14

Birthday Directory..................... 16

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

Camp Coverage

8 Tips for Preparing Your Child for a Successful Camp Experience....................................................................... 20 Camp Directory........................................................... 22 A look at leading day camps and summer programs.

A unique martial arts program helps kids with ADHD and other special needs.

Health............................................................................ 35 Insight and items for your family’s care.

Update........................................................................... 39 Essential products and information for the guys.

Bonus

Travel Spotlight............................................................. 33 Calendar of Events....................................................... 36

Health & Fitness

A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, events, and performances. Cover Credit: Picture Perfect Fun

Newborn Sleep 101...... 28

Answers to some of your toughest problems.

P. 28

Publisher Steve Elgort Co-Editors Samantha Chan, Donald McDermott Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli

Features

Bringing Baby Home......................... 8 10 tips to make the transition easier.

Pregnancy and Sleep........................ 10 Tips to ensure a restful and healthy pregnancy.

New Orleans..................................... 12 Not just for adults, anymore.

Woman oman mom

Plan to be Happy........................ 30 Organizing Your Family Planner.

PGTV Producer Beth Elgort

Feeling Good, Looking Good........ 31 Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous.

Destinations, product picks, and getaway tips.

Dad’s Corner................................................................. 32

Attacking the Senses......................... 27

P. 20

Travel............................................................................. 34

Essential products and information for your brood.

Special Needs

P. 12

Me and My Daddy Photo Contest.............................. 40

Columns

Party places and entertainers for the happiest of occasions.

P. 27

Birthday Blowout......................................................... 34

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.

P. 30

June 2015 I parentguide News I

contents contents

table of Sara Gubenko, MSed

table of

Master of Science in Elementary and Literacy Education

June 2015 Volume 32 • Number 6

Private tutor

Contests

Birthday NYC Coverage teacher Sweet Inspiration................... 14 reading & Writing Ideas for showstopping birthday desserts.

P. 14 Specialist

Birthday Directory..................... 16 Party places and entertainers for the happiest of occasions.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Camp Coverage

Support & enrichment to Children across Manhattan

A unique martial arts program helps kids with ADHD and other special needs.

salon just for kids where the haircuts are cool and fun rules!

Health & Fitness

Answers to some of your toughest problems.

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Bringing Baby Home......................... 8 Voted #1

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Woman oman mom

1359 Second Avenue (between Plan to be Happy........................ 30 71st and 72nd st) Organizing Your Family Planner.New York, NY 10021 (646) 559-2150 Feeling Good, Looking Good........ 31 /

sharkeyscutsforkids.com Franchises available

I parentguide News I June 2015

This month’s entertainment and activities.

Travel............................................................................. 34 Destinations, product picks, and getaway tips.

Health............................................................................ 35 Insight and items for your family’s care.

Update........................................................................... 39 Essential products and information for the guys.

Bonus

Travel Spotlight............................................................. 33 Calendar of Events....................................................... 36 A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, events, and performances.

Publisher Steve Elgort Co-Editors Samantha Chan, Donald McDermott Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli

Features

Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous.

Don’t Miss....................................................................... 6

Cover Credit: Picture Perfect Fun

Newborn Sleep 101...... 28 ll Haircuts

Columns

Dad’s Corner................................................................. 32

Attacking the Senses......................... 27 (646) 389-7323 • Ms.Sarae@gmail.com

A P. 12 include wash,

PROOF

Me and My Daddy Photo Contest.............................. 40

Essential products and information for your brood.

Special Needs

P. 27 The

Birthday Blowout......................................................... 34

P. 30

Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski Accounting Teresa Pinargote Contributing Writers Margaret Baldauf, Amy Lage, Marisa Mancini, Donald McDermott, Jess Michaels, Merrie Ober, Stephanie and Brett Parker, Debbie Sasson Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti 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.

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Letter from the Editor U

June has always been one of my favorite months. Not just because my birthday happens to arrive in June, either. For me, it always signaled a changing of the times. Spring turns to summer. School days end and summer fun begins. This year, June becomes even more special to me personally, as I get to write the Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter of PARENTGUIDE News for the very first time. In my time here I have seen more changes in the world than I can possibly count. I have seen lives end and new ones begin. And in the proudest moment of my life I even got to go from reading about being a father, to becoming one. No matter how many things have changed, PARENTGUIDE News has remained a constant. It is beyond special to me. I hope that there is a number of you, our readers who share this same sentiment. With change in the air, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the ideal time to start looking ahead. June brings warmer weather, backyard barbecues, and quality time with the family. For your little ones, June means the start of summer vacation! Jess Michaels, the Director of Communication for the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey, makes your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transition to summer camp even easier in â&#x20AC;&#x153;8 Tips for Preparing Your Child for a Successful Camp Experience.â&#x20AC;? If you are thinking about doing a little traveling this summer,

PROOF

by Donald McDermott

discover why â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Big Easyâ&#x20AC;? isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just for adults anymore in an eye opening travel piece by Merrie Ober that is all about New Orleans. From amazing foods to unforgettable attractions, it will be easy to understand why New Orleans is quickly becoming a new hot spot for families. Another tradition to look forward to at this time of year is Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Find a few totally unique gift ideas for the special guy in your home by checking out our brand new Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner column! Once you have finished our June articles, stop by www.parentguidenews.com for more fun and entertainment! Enter to win some great family-friendly prizes with our photo contests and giveaways, and read up on the latest tales from our mommy blogger in the Sandbox Social. Along with my co-editor and trusted friend Samantha Chan, I look forward to growing with you and the publication. I also hope to live up to this very special position that I have been given, as well as living up to all of the amazingly talented editors-in-chief here before us. Most important of all, I will strive to continue to uphold the level of excellence you have come to expect from PARENTGUIDE News! Happy Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day! Enjoy the issue.

PROOF

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

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DoN’T MISS Back to the Park

Twenty-two years after the events of the original Jurassic Park, Isla Nublar is back as a fully functioning dinosaur theme park in Jurassic World. After 10 years of operation and visitor rates declining, a new attraction is created to re-spark visitor’s interest, which backfires in a big, ferocious way. Starring Chris Pratt and produced by film legend Steven Spielberg, Jurassic World stomps into theaters beginning June 12.

Buzz Worthy

The world famous little bee and all of her insect friends will buzz their way right into your home when Maya the Bee Movie comes to DVD and Blu-ray. Available in stores and online now, the acclaimed animated feature from Shout! Factory Kids brings to life an enchanting story of a little bee named Maya and her exciting adventure of self-discovery and fantastical fun.An absolute must-have for fans of all ages!

Natural Disaster

A massive earthquake rocks California in the visually stunning new movie, San Andreas. Dwayne “The Rock”Johnson plays the rescue chopper pilot who makes a dangerous journey across the state in order to rescue his estranged daughter when the San Andreas Fault collapses. Featuring amazing effects and edge of your seat action, San Andreas is in theaters now.

Beach Buddies

Viewers of all ages are invited to go back to the beach when Teen Beach Movie 2 airs exclusively on the Disney Channel on June 26. Picking up where the original film left off, modern day teens Mack (Maya Mitchell) and Brady (Ross Lynch) get a real world musical visit from Lela, Tanner, Butchy, and their other surfer and biker pals from the beach party film within a film, Wet Side Story.

I Got You Babe

Experience George Herman “Babe” Ruth’s journey to becoming one of the most famous athletes and celebrities of all time with a copy of American Hercules: Babe Ruth. Major League Baseball,A&E Networks, and Lionsgate Home Entertainment collaborate to bring this bigger than life star to the small screen, complete with narration by Martin Sheen. Featuring rare and enhanced archival material and state of the art production techniques, the new release is the perfect gift for every Yankee loving dad this Father’s Day!

June

by Donald McDermott

Turtle Power

Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo are back for an all new adventure when Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Pulverizer Power comes to DVD. Created by Nickelodeon Home Entertainment and distributed by Paramount Home Media Distribution, the DVD introduces the heroes on the half shell train and team up with a brand new crime fighter who calls himself The Pulverizer. Pick up your copy today!

PBS App

PBS KIDS’ is proud to present a popular new app for parents. Created as one of the first Apple Watch apps for parents and families, Super Vision allows parents to remotely manage kids’ screen time on pbskids.org by setting a simple Play Timer on the Apple Watch.The fully featured App for iPhone and iPod touch also offers parents a tool to see what their kids are watching, playing and learning on pbskids.org, enabling parents to make the most of their children’s screen time. Find out more at www.pbskids.org.

Simulated Adventures

The sky’s the limit when a top notch collection of 10 complete simulation games is ready to be downloaded to your computer for one low price. The World is Yours! is the title as players of all ages customize their vehicles and compete in multiplayer and single player modes to a wide variety of games, including a Skyscraper Simulator, American Trucker Mode,Airport Simulator,Water Park Level, and many, many more. Download your own today at www.store.steampowered.com.

Swift Lullabys

Rockabye Baby Music continues to bring us family friendly renditions of some of our favorite music by giving Taylor Swift the lullaby treatment. Available on mp3 and CD, parents are able to purchase or download lullaby renditions of Taylor Swift’s, Blank Space and Wonderland. For a full list of all of the great music they have to choose from, visit www.rockabyebabymusic.com.

Spongebob’s Back!

Everyone’s favorite yellow, spongy, underwater burger flipper is back when The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water comes to DVD and Blu-Ray. Mixing live action and animation, the big budget hit film sees life in Bikini Bottom turned upside down when the top secret recipe for Krabby Patties is stolen. Now it’s up to Spongebob, his friends, and even his sworn enemy Plankton, to join forces and set things right. Copies are available in stores and online today!

Donald McDermott is a co-editor.

SK 6/15

I parentguide News I June 2015

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June We’re All Going Camping

It’s time again to get outside! June 27 brings about the Great American Backyard Campout right in your own backyard. Get together with neighbors and community members, or just camp out with the family, and teach young children how nature makes us happier and healthier. Not sure how to plan your campout? Visit www.backyardcampout.org for packing lists, recipes, nocturnal wildlife guides, activities, games and more.

East Meets West

On June 7, the Egg Rolls and Egg Creams Festival is back at the Museum at Eldridge Street Synagogue between noon and 4pm. Head to 12 Eldridge St. to enjoy the joint heritage of lower Manhattan where the Jewish community meets Chinatown. The day-long festival includes tours of the historic synagogue, features Chinese opera and acrobats, klezmer performances, and of course, egg rolls and egg creams! Questions? Dial (212)219-0888 or visit www.eldridgestreet.org.

A Knight to Remember

Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine hosts a Knightwatch Medieval Slumber Party on June 5! Under the roof of the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, guests, ages for 6-12, search for clues in a scavenger hunt led by a court jester, help a princess under a magician’s spell, and meet star-crossed lovers and a bashful knight. Bring a sleeping bag and your imagination. One chaperone must be on-site for every three children. Sign up via phone at (212)3167540 or online at www.stjohndivine.org

by Samantha Chan

Down the Rabbit Hole

Alice: 150 Years of Wonderland opens on June 26 at The Morgan Library and Museum. Bring your brood down to 225 Madison Ave. to view the original Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland manuscript in the context of drawings and letters, rare editions, vintage photographs, and other mementos.The exhibition continues through October 11. Learn more online at www.themorgan.org.

Start Up the Grill

Pit masters from around the city, Alabama, Texas, Tennessee, North Carolina and beyond are all converging on Madison Square Park, June 13 and 14 for the Big Apple Barbecue Block Party. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore some of the savory and succulent offerings, in addition to live blues, rock, and country music. There’s even the chance to learn the science and art behind brisket and ribs! Visit bigapplebbq.org for more information. Samantha Chan is the co-editor.

M MB 6/15

your needs, your neighborhood

June 2015 I parentguide News I

Baby Home

by Brett and Stephanie Parker

Bringing

10 tips the

to make transition easier.

ringing a new baby into the world is an exciting and joyful time for parents as they get to know and bond with their little one. There is a lot of adjusting, and possibly some mixed emotions. This can be overwhelming, as taking care of your new bundle of joy becomes a roundthe-clock job. We just welcomed our new baby boy, and have a few tips to help any frazzled parent keep calm once baby is home from the hospital.

I parentguide News I June 2015 SK 6/15

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Swaddling helps soothe baby to sleep.

Swaddling provides baby with a warm and soothing womb-like environment for extra comfort and security. It also helps prevent startle reﬂex in babies which will have them waking themselves up while they sleep. A baby swaddle like the Miracle Blanket or the Woombie makes swaddling super easy for parents, and are safe and effective. Once baby starts to roll over, this is a sign that swaddling is no longer safe, in which case it is a good idea to switch to a sleep garment like the Zipadee-Zip, a go-to solution to help transition baby from swaddling, that allows for the freedom of pajamas.

2. 3.

Get your rest while baby sleeps.

Whenever baby is taking a nap, the parent should be resting, as well. Forget about housework. It is much more important for you to get your rest so that you have the energy to take care of baby, and you both stay healthy.

Breastfeeding is beneﬁcial for both mom and baby.

Breastfeeding provides babies with all of the essential vitamins and nutrients they need, plus disease-ﬁghting substances to keep baby healthy, especially during the ﬁrst six months. It has been shown to lower the risk of childhood cancers, stomach viruses, ear infections and several other illnesses. It also protects baby from developing allergies later on, and it improves cognitive development. For moms, breastfeeding reduced stress, postpartum depression, and the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.

4. 5.

Keep baby safe from germs.

Remember to always wash your hands before handling baby and have any visitors do the same because babies’ weak immune systems are susceptible to infection. Let your children hold the new baby but avoid letting them kiss the baby’s face if you want to be on the safe side.

Get the right car seat.

For infants under two years of age, they must be placed in a rear-facing car seat for their safety as the back of the seat cradles baby’s head, neck and torso. Always read the owner’s manual to make sure you are correctly installing the seat and using the seatbelt or harness.

Place baby to sleep on his back.

Babies must be placed to sleep on their backs in order to reduce the risk of SIDS. A baby sleeping on his stomach may not get enough oxygen, or rebreathe his own exhaled carbon dioxide. It’s also important to remove pillows, blankets, stuffed toys, etc. You don’t want anything to accidentally fall on his face and potentially cause suffocation.

Learn how to prevent diaper rash.

Diaper rash is pretty common because babies have sensitive skin. The rash may go away on its own but there are ways to prevent it. Change baby’s diaper frequently, especially a poopy diaper. When using a cloth diaper, you should wash it in a fragrance-free or all-natural detergent for sensitive skin. You can also apply a diaper rash cream after cleaning the area with a wipe.

8. 9.

Get some fresh air.

You’ll go crazy if you stay cooped up in the house for too long, so head outside and get some fresh air. Just be sure to keep baby protected from the sun and dressed appropriately for the weather.

Trust your instincts.

Mother’s instinct is usually right, so practice listening and following your gut. Every parent makes mistakes with their ﬁrst baby, but that is how you learn. Also understand that what works for one baby doesn’t always work for another. Instead of constantly doubting, be conﬁdent that you know your baby best and have the best feel for what he needs.

10.

Ask for help if you need it.

As a new parent you sometimes struggle to juggle everything at home and raising a baby is hard work. You need to take time for yourself, and rest before you become completely worn down. If you feel like you need a break, don’t be afraid to ask a trusted person for help. They understand that everyone needs a little help sometimes, even “supermom.” If you have any questions,talk to your pediatrician or even a fellow mom who will be understanding.

Brett and Stephanie Parker have two children, and are the founders of Zipadee-Zip. The pair was having trouble getting their daughter Charlotte to fall and stay asleep after her swaddle became uncomfortable and unsafe. Out of sheer desperation and exhaustion, the Zipadee-Zip was born! The brand has grown through word of mouth, and nothing makes this family happier than seeing other parents and babies getting the sleep they both need and deserve! Visit www.sleepingbaby.com for more information. your needs, your neighborhood

June 2015 I parentguide News I

Pregnancy and Sleep Tips to ensure a restful and healthy pregnancy. by Debbie Sasson

s a sleep consultant, I’m keenly aware of my daughter’s sleep habits. I’m also very conscious of my own! I am well into my third trimester and starting to feel like sleep is a precious commodity that I won’t have in my life for a few months now. I’m exhausted!

Many women complain about how tired they are during pregnancy and of course there are many factors that contribute to that. In the first trimester, I was able to fall asleep easily (in any place at any time– even with my daughter playing right next to me!) but often woke at 3am to use the bathroom only to crawl back into bed and lie awake for two hours. Many women find that stomach upset keeps them awake during the first trimester as well. The second trimester brought me more restful sleep, although it was still interrupted by many trips to the bathroom. Now, as I near my due date, I’m finding that things like worry, aches and pains, and my pressed-upon bladder are all keeping me up throughout the night. While I try to nap every day, working full-time and having a 4.5 year old sometimes make that difficult. 10 I parentguide News I June 2015 SK 6/15

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A 1 2 3 4 5

s with all sleep concerns, sleep hygiene is the most important “cure” to most adult sleep troubles. This is even more true during pregnancy. Here are some suggestions for things that all adults can do to help with sleep– especially when you’re expecting:

Sleep in a dark, cool room. Around 70 degrees Farenheit is ideal.

6 7 8 ProoF 9

Try to keep your bedroom a space for relaxation. Don’t do work in bed, try not to watch TV in bed. Your bed should be for sleeping, intimacy with your partner, and reading!

Use white noise to drown out any household or neighborhood noises that may wake you.

Dim the lights as you get ready for bed. Darkness can help your body naturally produce melatonin, which makes you feel more sleepy.

Try not to eat within two hours of bedtime. If you’re nauseated and find that eating helps, try to limit your bedtime snacks to bland foods like pretzels, saltines, or toast.

PROOF

Try to go to bed at around the same time every night and wake around the same time every morning, aiming for around eight hours if you can.

hours before bedtime. 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 419 Park Avenue South, New Stop York, exercising NY 10016 •two 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 If you’re pregnant and still working out, I applaud you!

to:

FAx #

TO:

Turn off all screens— including phones, tablets, TVs, and computers— an hour be- FROM: iSSue DAte: fore bedtime.

From:

Please call or fax your comments and/or OK.

Please call or fax your comments and/or oK.

s with your children, when you are pregnant, sleep should be a priorSigNAture oF APProvAl: ity. Make sure you’re establishing healthy sleep habits yourself as you begin to prepare for your new baby’s arrival!

Debbie Sasson is the camp director of Camp Akeela (www.campakeela.com), a threeweek residential summer camp in Vermont, as well as a certified sleep consultant and SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: the co-founder of Sleep Sisters (www.sleepsisters. com). The mom of two also holds a doctorate in clinical psychology. Sasson’s sleep work is informed by her knowledge about brain development, emotional development, and family relationships.

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If you do wake in the middle of the night, don’t turn on a screen. Instead, try reading, doing relaxation exercises, FAX # or writing in a journal. Keeping some paper and a pen by your bed to jot down any worries or things you want to remember will be helpful if you’re someone who has trouble ISSUE DATE:falling back to sleep.

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

(Near the 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R & F Trains and the M15, M57, M31, M101, M102, M103, Q32, Q60 & Q101 Buses) 917-281-1030 or 212-204-6348 info@theballetclub.com www.theballetclub.com

for w o ter N asses! s i g Re all Cl F

June 2015 I parentguide News I 11

Not Just for Adults, Anymore by Merrie Stone

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF MERRIE STONE

ew Orleans is fast becoming the new hot spot for families. The city boasts a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s museum, aquarium, butterfly garden and insectarium, zoo and numerous parks; not to mention some of the best food fare concentrated in one area in all of the United States. Ten years ago, I would have traveled here for vastly different reasons. Now as a parent, we base our destination choices on what would appeal to the entire family. I love history, my boys love new adventures, and we all love food. New Orleans has the perfect combination of merriment for children as well as adult activities; sure to make every member of your family happy.

Visit the Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium for an in depth look at the creatures that dominate our earth, and enter into the ethereal space that houses beautifully delicate butterflies. Be on the lookout for new ones, hatching out of their chrysalis on view for all to see. 12 I parentguide News I June 2015 SK 6/15

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ATTRACTIONS

A short distance down the block is the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas. The structure overlooks the Mississippi Rivers and is one of grandest and most beautiful aquariums we’ve ever seen. My boys had a wonderful time playing on the indoor riverboats. Even better is the white crocodile, and the happy penguins that waddle and dive into their waters to put on a show for the kids. One of our favorite journeys through the city was on the St. Charles Streetcar; the oldest continuously operating streetcar lines in the world. The ride is long if taken end to end. The grand and ornate homes along the road each seem to want to tell their own story, which can be heard on a city Garden Tour of its own. The Louisiana Children’s Museum was the perfect place to run out our energy before a flight home. Another favorite was a ride down the mighty Mississippi on the Steamboat Natchez.Roughly a three-hour ride, note that there is an option for a meal onboard at an excellent price. Visit the steam room to view the inner workings of this dynamic ship or settle for sitting back with a snack that can be purchased at the café.

FOOD

If food is what you search for, visit Mother’s, a spot that boasts the best Po’ Boy in the south. It is relaxed, cafeteria-style dining, mostly around large round tables. The atmosphere is laid back and the staff is more than friendly. It was the first lunch we ate in New Orleans, and held all of us over until breakfast the next morning. One spot that should not be missed, is a visit to Café Du Monde. A New Orleans staple, it has the best beignets that I have ever had, by far. There are two lines that form at the cafe, one to sit down, and one for take-out. Both are long and both seem to move at the same pace, so choose wisely. We opted to buy three bags of beignets and their famous coffee beverage, and sit in nearby Jackson Square. The boys ran around the beautiful park as we all ate all of the light and powdered sugary goodies. One place that cannot be missed is a morning spent having brunch at The Court of Two Sisters. Here can only be described as magical. Accompanied by a jazz trio, and shaded by umbrellas and winding vines above, this brunch spot offers everything tasty you can think of that embodies New Orleans food fare. We were given a lesson in the art of crawfish eating by the wonderful waiter, and chowed down on turtle soup. The boys enjoyed the music and feasting on big, local strawberries. your needs, your neighborhood

We spent a morning at New Orleans City Park riding the rides at Carousel Gardens, Storyland and Train Garden. There is a great miniature train that takes visitors around the perimeter of this beautiful park. A day can be spent here, riding the rides at the amusement parks, and visiting the New Orleans Museum of Art and Sculpture Garden or the New Orleans Botanical Garden.

raveling with kids may not be an ideal adult vacation, but it will most certainly be an experience full of memories made. A thoughtfully planned agenda is a must for New Orleans to ensure that nothing is missed.

Merrie Stone’s love of travel, food, and family has led to a never-ending quest for adventure with her two sons that she chronicles on her blog, Hungry Travel Baby. Stone has a pastry diploma from Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, and a master’s degree in childhood education. Visit her at www.hungrytravelbaby.com. June 2015 I parentguide News I 13

by Margaret Baldauf

Sweet Inspiration Ideas for showstopping birthday desserts.

Birthday cakes and sweet treats are a fun way to celebrate someone’s special day, but they don’t all have to be so elaborate. For your next birthday celebration, I’ve put together some tips so you can create the perfect cake!.

Less is more. If you don’t have much time or haven’t had much experience in the kitchen, pick a simple idea and stick to it.

A little color goes a long way. If you want a simple cake with white icing, consider having a surprise inside. Prepare a yummy vanilla cake recipe and split the batter into five bowls. Color them red, orange, yellow, green, and blue. Bake them seperately so when you stack the layers of the cake you have a beautiful rainbow. Your kids and their guests will love the surprise when you cut into the cake.

Embrace a color scheme. If your

daughter loves My Little Pony, use rainbows on your dessert to tie everything together.

Use ready-made decorations. Candy pieces, chopped

candy bars, or plastic cake toppers, in place of handmade characters and designs out of fondant. Many party stores carry premade letters and shapes to top cakes and cupcakes, as well.

Cookies are a great substitution for cake.

In a pinch,or as an alternative, buy some ready-made sugar cookie dough and add your childs favorite flavor icing and top with sprinkles. Who doesn’t love fresh baked cookies? 14 I parentguide News I June 2015

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Get the kids involved. Let

them help mix the cake batter and decorate their cake or cupcakes. It will not only be bonding time with your child, but introducing them to something they may not have experienced before. Even if you aren’t the next best cake artist, have fun with your kids in the kitchen. They will be proud of their work when everyone sees their special birthday dessert.

Remember! Always supervise children around electric appliances, sharp knives and hot surfaces in the kitchen.

Idea for a Girl’s Birthday

Flowers, princess fairytales, woodland creatures, and ballerinas are some of the themes that might inspire you. Keeping things simple, like these colorful flower cupcakes, will make little girls and her guests light up!

Idea for a Boy’s Birthday

Popular party themes for young boys include trucks, sports, pirates, superheroes, zoo animals, policemen, and firemen. Make his day special with an easy homemade cake, like the one above. He’ll be sure to have fun with his friends while celebrating.

7 tips to

bake a cake: • Make sure to preheat your oven. • Follow the recipe carefully. • Use room-temperature ingredients, even your eggs and butter. • Bake your cakes on the center rack of the oven. • Don’t overcrowd your oven. • Spray your pans with nonstick backing spray. • Let your cake cool slightly before removing it from the pan. your needs, your neighborhood

Other celebration ideas:

If you have a big family, you may be celebrating multiple birthdays at once. To please everyone, try making some birthday-themed treats with a twist. A giant cupcake cake always brightens a childs face when they see all the icing and giant sprinkles on top. Another sweet idea is to whip up your favorite batch of cupcake batter and bake it in ice cream cones. These cute treats can be topped with icing to look like an ice cream cone including chocolate syrup, sprinkles and even a bright red cherry.

Margaret Baldauf is an art director at PARENTGUIDE News and a cake artist. For more sweet ideas and inspiration, follow Margaret on Instagram, @mbcakedesign.

Photos courtesy of MB Cake Design.

June 2015 I parentguide News I 15

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Celebrate! Entertainers, Party Places and More...

At Their Place

Berenstain Bears LIVE Manhattan Movement and Arts Center (MMAC) 248 W. 60th St., NYC 10023 (866)811-4111 www.berenstainbearslive.com Plan your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next birthday party with the characters from the classic childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s book series by Stan and Jan Berenstain. The Berenstain Bears LIVE! in Family Matters, the Musical brings everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite bear family to life in a thrilling theatrical experience that kids as well as their parents will treasure for many years to come. The venue welcomes parties, offering a Bear-y Birthday Party Package. Pricing and package details can be obtained by e-mailing party@berenstainbearslive.com. If you have any other occasion which to celebrate, and it includes eight people or more, they are also welcome to hang out in Bear Country with the family that generations have loved. For detail on other group packages, contact groups@berenstainbearslive.com. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget the V.I.B Package for Very Important Bears! It includes playful Bear Ears to wear during the show, and seating on the Grassy Knoll at the foot of the Bear Country stage! It is a guaranteed fun time for any fete!

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reinvent itself. The wildly popular show at the Astor Place Theatre now combines signature Blue Man Group moments with breathtakingly fun new pieces. Blue Man Group is great for birthdays or any special occasion! This unique theatrical experience is a form of entertainment like nothing else, guaranteed to be an outing that your group will never forget. Birthday party packages are available for groups of 10 or more. Package includes discounted tickets, name of birthday child on the LED screen at the beginning of the show, merchandise item for each guest, and a Blue Man Group poster for the birthday child. For more information or to book, call the Group Sales Department at (212)260-8993.

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Chelsea Piers Parties Complex 23rd Street and the Hudson River, NYC 10011 (212)336-6518 www.chelseapiers.com/birthday Chelsea Piers is home to Manhattanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best sports-themed birthday parties, all year round! State-of-the-art facilities and world-class instruction combine with convenient party planning and packages for a fun and memorable birthday celebration! A wide variety of activities are available for all, from preschoolers to teens, such as the 23,000-square-foot gymnastics center outfitted with inground trampolines and deep foam pits, rock climbing wall designed for kids and teens, indoor playing fields, Little Athletes Exploration Center, basketball courts and batting cages. You can also choose from two indoor ice skating rinks, a 40-lane bowling center or a hi-tech golf driving range for parties. Private instructors are available for all parties (excluding bowling parties). Refreshments are served in private party rooms. For gymnastics, rock climbing, soccer, basketball and other team sports parties, contact the Field House at (212)336-6518 or fieldhouse@chelseapiers.com; for ice skating parties,

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

Blue Man Group Astor Place Theatre 434 Lafayette St., NYC 10003 (212)260-8993/(800)BLUEMAN www.bluemangroup.com Blue Man Group is not just a show, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a state of mind. Having utterly redefined the New York theater scene, Blue Man Group continues to

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BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY

Every party includesPlease creative poses, themes, techniques, yoga call or fax breathing your comments and/or games, and relaxation time with hand or foot massages. A yoga party with friends is a great way to celebrate your child’s special day. The Basic SigNAture Package includes one hour of yoga with props and music for as OF APPrOvAl: many as 10 children (24 kids maximum), and 30 minutes to celebrate in the magical studio with pizza and refreshments. Choose a fun theme for your child’s yoga party: Jungle, Beach Party, Zoo, Outer Space, Farm, Cozy’s Cuts for Kids Yoga Games, or come up with your own special idea! Other packages 1416 Second Ave., NYC 10021 include CircusYoga, Glow-in-the-Dark Yoga, Butterfly Yoga, Downward or SMALL (212)585-2629 Doll Yoga, and Yoga Art parties. Older kids can celebrate with a Yoga www.cozyscutsforkids.com Spa party, Yoga Mat Painting, Pajama Yoga, or just a great yoga workout A Beauty Bash at Cozy’s is a rite of passage for all NYC stylistas! Parents that includes more challenging poses, such as arm balances and upside sit back and relax while the girls get their glam on in their ownFor private poses, partner and group poses, and more! NEW offerings include advertisingdown information please call 212-213-8840 salon. Pick a package that suits your little ladies, from The Ultimate Beauty Sleep-UNDER and Sleep-OVER parties! Karma Kids Yoga can also Bash Deluxe to The Glamour VIP Party. All parties include incredible bring the yoga party fun to you! This is a birthday party that your child hairstyling from Cozy’s Braid Bar & Blow Bar by Up-do Specialists, mini will never forget. Come Play Yoga! art manicures and sparkly makeup application. Additional fun includes art projects, dancing, runway show, music, pizza, beverages and much more. Also available is the BFF day– two or more girls can have the greatest play date of all, no occasion necessary! The hour-long package includes amazing hairstyling, nail art and glitter makeup, plus a special “glam” bag to take home. For fun on the run, let Cozy’s come to you– a Glam-to-Go SMALL Party can be arranged at your home, party room or favorite restaurant! No venue is too big or too small. For more information visit www.cozyscutsforkids.com or contact Cozy’s Party Coordinator at (212)585-2629 or email customercare@cozyscutsforkids.com.com. contact Sky Rink at (212)336-6100 or skyrink@chelseapiers.com; for golf parties contact the Golf Club at (212)336-6400 or golfclub@chelseapiers. com; for bowling, call (212)835-BOWL. On-site parking is available for a fee. Easily accessible by the M23 or M14 bus. Please call or visit the website at www.chelseapiers.com/birthday and see why Chelsea Piers is the best choice for a stress-free and fun-filled birthday party!

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Karma Kids Yoga 25 W. 23rd St., Third Floor, NYC 10010 (646)638-1444 downdog@karmakidsyoga.com www.karmakidsyoga.com Karma Kids yoga parties are unique, age-appropriate, and so much fun!

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For information on how to reach the best families in your area, please call

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A DynAmic hAnDs-on Technology & enTerTAinmenT museum locATeD in The heArT of new york ciTy

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For information on how to reach the best families Whether your child enjoys in your area, please call video games, movies, animation or music we’ve got the party for you! 212-213-8840 celebrate your child’s birthday at the lab with a party like no other! Choose from one of our unique party packages that offer exclusive use of our four floor facility. Parties can be booked Tuesdays-Saturdays by speaking with our birthday coordinator at (212) 833-7340.

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June 2015 I parentguide News I 17

BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY Kids at Art 1412 Second Ave., NYC 10021 (212)410-9780 wendy@kidsatartnyc.com www.kidsatartnyc.com Imagine having a party where your child and guests create fabulous projects to take home. At Kids at Art, there are a variety of art projects to choose from in their private art studio, which is all yours for an hour and a half! Projects can be tailor-made for your child or you can choose from a variety of others. Included are all art supplies, personalized invitations, complimentary t-shirt for the birthday child, paper goods and juice. Balloons and other goodies can also be supplied for an extra charge. Kids at Art Also offers karaoke/disco birthday parties, American Idol, Broadway, Beatles, Glee, and much more! Real DJS from Expressway Music are exclusive at Kids at Art! All parties are run by a staff of professionals. Please call or visit the website for more information. Medieval Times The Meadowlands Castle 149 Polito Ave., Lyndhurst, NJ 07071-0327 (888)935-6878 www.medievaltimes.com In the mood for some old-fashioned fun? Medieval Times invites you to come celebrate more than 20 years of feasting, fighting and fun! A popular dinner attraction for all ages, Medieval Times Castles features a two-hour dinner and live show based upon authentic medieval history. Guests enjoy a four course medieval banquet while witnessing brave knights compete on horseback in games of skill, jousting matches and swordfights. Admission includes a four course dinner, beverages and a live show. Parking is free. In addition to their regular daily schedules, Medieval Times is the perfect place to celebrate the next birthday of the young Lord or Lady of your own castle! Their special actionpacked birthday party packages include preferred seating, an individual photo with the King or Queen, a cheering banner, birthday cake, and an announcement in honor of the birthday child during the performance! Medieval Times is located west of Giants Stadium and just minutes from mid-town Manhattan. Other locations include Hanover, MD; Lawrenceville, GA; Kissimmee, FL; Schaumburg, IL; Myrtle Beach, SC; Dallas, TX; Buena Park, CA; and Toronto, Ontario. Call the number above for reservations and further information. RoboFun Vision Education & Media 38 E. 23rd St., #3A, NYC 10010 (212)245-0444 robofun@vemny.org www.robofun.org Host your child’s next birthday party at the RoboFun Studio! Depending on the package chosen, aspiring inventors can build and customize a LEGO robot, design a simple video game, or create and shoot a stop-motion animation film. Best of all, parents only need to bring cake— Robofun staff does all the work so that parents can enjoy the special celebration! Pizza, favors (a T-shirt and drawstring backpack), staff, paper goods and decorations are all part of the arrangement. Ages 4 to 12. www.robofun.org

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Sony Wonder Technology Lab 550 Madison Ave.,NYC 10022 (212)833-8100 timothy_foster@sonyusa.com www.sonywondertechlab.com Prepare your child and their friends for a birthday celebration like no other! Sony Wonder Technology Lab offers one-of-a-kind parties for all age groups in an exciting, state-of-the-art facility. Choose from a VIP tour with exclusive use of the Lab’s four floors of dynamic interactive exhibits, an intense PlayStation 3 gaming experience in the High Definition Theater, an opportunity to develop your very own short claymation movie and much more! All birthday packages also include a decorated reception complete with pizza, cake and beverages as well as specially designed birthday invitations. The birthday staff caters to your unique needs to provide a memorable and fun experience. parentguidenews.com

From now until March 2015, receive $200 off the package of your choice when mentioning this listing. Sony Wonder Technology Lab is a technology and entertainment museum located in the heart of NYC with four floors of hands-on interactive exhibits. For more information and rates, please visit www.sonywondertechlab.com/pr-birthday_parties.html.

At Your Place Let’s Gogh Art, NYC (917)704-0102 www.nyletsgoghart.com Let’s Gogh Art is a mobile, creative arts enrichment company delivering art-based programs, education, and birthday party packages. When you book amazing art parties for boys and girls, Let’s Gogh Art creativity crew brings a unique arts and crafts party to your location. Enjoy crafts like decorating totally awesome tote bags, painting racecars, embellishing super hero capes, and more. Gogh Glam parties provide your birthday child with a mani or pedi, nail art, plus crafts like decorating jeweled bags, magic wands, or flip flops. Enjoy special “Gogh-tinis” while getting a glitter tattoo from a professional artist. Looking for a holiday theme? Let’s Gogh Art has plenty of project possibilities for any holiday. Let’s Gogh Art creates art-rageously fun craft tables where kids of all ages can create while the adults get to enjoy the party! The best part is they bring the fun to you, and take the mess when they leave!

Proof

BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY

corporate events and even the occasional adult party. He is particularly proud of the work he does for The Starlight-Starbright Children’s Foundation of NY, NJ and CT, helping to brighten the lives of seriously ill children throughout New York City by regularly visiting area hospitals. If you haven’t seen Looney Louie, someone you know probably has. He spends about an hour and a half at each event and performs a show consisting of a hilarious juggling routine and an even loonier magic show that includes loads of audience participation. Not only does Looney Louie bring up assistants from the audience, but at birthdays the birthday child becomes the star of the show and even receives a special prize just for them. Looney Louie also makes festive balloons for all the guests and sings happy birthday. While this show is ideal for kids 3-8 years old, more than a few grown ups have been seen laughing and screaming during his show. Looney Louie speaks Spanish and French, and frequently performs in Spanish in New York. Needless to say Looney Louie is very flexible and knows how to use his skills to their best advantage to make your event a great success. Not only is Looney Louie a great entertainer, he’s also a proud parent.

Proof

Singalong with Phoebe

(203)216-0849 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Looney Louie (212)533-7491 looneylouienyc@yahoo.com www.looneylouie.com Looney Louie is a professional children’s entertainer whose specialties include magic, juggling, music, balloon twisting and, of course, lots of comedy. He has been performing professionally since 1990 and performs at approximately 40 to 50 engagements each month, including birthday parties, hospitals, schools,

your needs, your neighborhood

phoeberoome@yahoo.com Talented children’s entertainer Phoebe creates a special environment where she becomes an integral part of birthday happenings, large or small. Phoebe leads children in wonderful sing-alongs that bring out their natural energy in delightful, upbeat songs. She’ll sing and play guitar and dulcimer as children join in and play bongo drums, maracas, mouth bows, limberjacks, snare drums and a whole new set of rhythm instruments gathered from her travels around the world! Her dancing puppets are another delightful addition to her unusual show where singing is “joyful noise!” Each party is unique and different - she does shows ranging from intimate gatherings to Lincoln Center - but Phoebe’s talent always reaches grand scales. Set your party to music with Phoebe - a happy occasion will follow whenever she’s around. Phoebe has also appeared in videos, commercials, on TV and in movies.

June 2015 I parentguide News I 19

In just a few weeks, your child will be going to day or overnight camp for the first time. Camp is an exciting, new experience for your child but as the first day approaches, it is common for some children to feel some uneasiness. As with any new situation, it is always good to prepare your child as best as you can. Here are just a few tips of things you can do to prepare your child for a successful summer camp experience.

1. Share positive messages. One of the most impor-

tant things you can do for your child is to share positive messages about camp. Talk about all the wonderful activities the camp offers, all the friends your child will make and remind your child about the things he or she was excited about when you first made the camp decision. Even if you are feeling a bit of apprehension about your child going to camp, you should do your best to not share these thoughts with your child. Share positive messages about camp and let your child know that you are confident that he or she is going to have a great time at camp.

2. Meet other first-time campers.

Sometimes children worry about not knowing anyone at camp before they get there. Camp is an environment where friendships are fostered and your child will meet friends on the very first day of camp! But some children feel more comfortable having a familiar face on that first day. Many camps host a pre-camp event for first time campers. This is a good way for children to meet other children going to the camp for the first time. It also gives campers a chance to get to know the camp director and for the director to get to know you and your child. If your camp doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t host these get-togethers, ask if there is a family who lives close by to you that you can call and set up a playdate with.

3. Pack together.

If your child is going to overnight camp, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good idea to pack together. Knowing what your child is bringing will help your camper feel more comfortable. Packing together also gives you a chance to talk about camp. Each camp has its own policy on what can and canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be brought to camp so be sure to look at the packing list and to respect items that the camp asks you to leave at home. 20 I parentguide News I June 2015

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4. Talk about the bus ride. Whether your child

is going to day or overnight camp, sometimes children get nervous about the bus ride to camp. For many children going to day camp, this is the first time they take a bus. Talk about what the bus ride will be like and what your child can expect. Some day camps set up a time prior to the first day of camp for campers to meet the bus counselor, which can help a child feel more comfortable.

5. Questions: Encourage your child to ask questions

about camp. Your child will feel more comfortable going to camp if his or her questions are being answered. If you don’t know the answer, check out the website or call the camp director. The camp director is happy to answer any questions you or your child may have about camp.

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fore and will show camp in action which will only get your child more excited for the first day of camp.

8. Call the camp director. If your child is getting nervous about the first day of camp, you can always contact the camp director for advice. Camp directors want your child to have a great summer at camp and have a lot of experience helping children transition to camp. The director can offer you some tips to help your child overcome any worries and get them even more excited for the first day of camp to arrive.

Proof

Jess Michaels is the Director of www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 6. Visit website together. Now that the first day Communication for the American of camp is almost here, it’s a good time to revisit the camp website with your child. Check out the daily schedule, the virtual tour, the list of activities, any online videos and the picture slideshow. Looking at the website together reminds your child of all he or she is excited about and also gives your child a chance to ask any questions about camp that he or she may not have thought of.

7. Watch the camp video. Remember the

camp video you watched when you first decided on camp? Watch it again! Seeing a video of camp and all the fun the campers are having reminds your child of the camp tour you took the year be-

robofun

Camp Association, NY and NJ, a not for profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of the summer camp experience. Families who need assistance in finding a camp can call the American Camp Association, NY and NJ at (212)3915208 for free, one-on-one advice in finding a camp.

starts June 8 LEGO® Robotics, Grades K-6 Coding | Game Design, Grades 1-6 Stop Motion Animation, Grades 3-6

online registration at robofun.org 2672 Broadway & 102nd St, NYC | 212.245.0444 your needs, your neighborhood

SUMMER at ST. BART’S 2015 ST. BART’S DAY CAMP Ages 3–6 • June 8th–August

JUNIOR ADVENTURERS & ADVENTURE CAMP Ages 6–13 • June 29th –August

All options include swimming every day! SWIMMING • SPORTS • MUSIC • ARTS & CRAFTS ROOFTOP PLAYGROUND • DANCE & MOVEMENT

For more information, or to schedule a tour, contact us at

212-378-0203 • info-camp@stbarts.org www.stbarts.org/summer-camp June 2015 I parentguide News I 21

Discover Some of the Area’s Best Summer Camps and Programs A.C.T. Programs The Cathedral of St. John the Divine 1047 Amsterdam Ave., NYC 10025 (212)316-7530 act@stjohndivine.org www.actprograms.org ACT is “Where the Action Is” this summer for your child on the historic Cathedral of St. John the Divine campus. A.C.T’s Summer Country Day Camp in the City readily boasts of its 11-acre campus, roaming peacocks and happy campers since 1971. There is something here for every child from ages 4-14. Campers have the versatility to participate in arts, sports and specialized camps, explore New York City sites, embark on scavenger hunt challenges and take exciting field trips in the Adventure Camps. A choice of activities is offered, including a full program of sports, arts, crafts and performing arts. The youngest campers spend afternoons engaged in water and gardening activities. Playing fields and indoor gymnasiums on campus present campers with opportunities to play traditional and cooperative games. Older campers can choose to go on camping excursions. In August, campers specialize in a sports or art course. Extended day options and sibling discounts are available. Come see their wonderful facilities. Go to the A.C.T. Program website for the latest information on the new playground opening in June and Holiday Camps in February, March, April and June. Have your child spend a season of outdoor summer fun in A.C.T.

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3pm, August 3-14. Each day, campers join arts education professionals to engage in hands-on discovery in music, art, dance, drama, and playwriting. Through the use of a developmentally appropriate curriculum, campers use inquiry methods to support the process, discover tools, and participate in cooperative decision making. The program cultivates freedom, awareness, and expression while nurturing children’s independent voices. The camp also promotes multicultural self-expression, listening, composing, moving, dancing, drawing, and creating all through the use of encouraging motivation. A typical day at the camp includes integrated emphasis on art, music and dance programs, story time, outdoor and indoor free play, snack time, and water play. Instructors at the Action Arts Summer Camp are experienced professionals and artists who are or have been part of Teachers College Art, Music or Dance or English programs. They are adept at working with all children and accommodating various abilities.

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Action Arts Summer Camp Teachers College, Columbia University 525 W. 120th St., Box 139, NYC 10027 (917)561-9624 actionartscamp@yahoo.com www.tc.edu/actionartscamp Teachers College, Columbia University, is proud to host the 2015 Action Arts Summer Camp for children ages 5-13. The camp runs from Monday through Friday, 9am-

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Asphalt Green Upper East Side 555 E. 90th St. NYC 10128 (212)298.7900 camp@asphaltgreen.org www.asphaltgreen.org Battery Park City 212 North End Ave., NYC 10282 (212)298-7900 campsagbpc@asphaltgreen.org www.asphaltgreen.org For more than two decades, Asphalt Green Summer Day Camp has formed millions of memories for campers while meeting that unique age-appropriate physical, mental, behavioral and social milestones parents want. The camp is offered at two state-of-the-art Manhattan campuses– Upper East Side and Battery Park City– for kids ages 4-13 years. Campers experience fun, active-filled days including swimming, a variety of sports, arts, weekly field trips, special

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Summer Day Camp! Lessons Year Round! Day Camp at theol Pine Street Scho June 29 - Aug 29

Downtown East Village Midtown Upper East Uptown

Swim every day! Cooking, science, sports, and more!

physiqueswimming.com 212-725-0939 info@physiqueswimming.com

22 I parentguide News I June 2015

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events, and more! Air-conditioned bus service is available from designated stops throughout the City. Join Asphalt Green June 29-August 21 because it will be the best summer of your life! Ballet Club 328 E. 61st St., Second Floor, NYC 10065 (917)281-1030 / (212)204-6348 info@theballetclub.com www.theballetclub.com March 23-27 and June 22-August 28, The Ballet Club and Little Picasso Children’s Art Studio join forces to provide a creative, nurturing, and fun Movement and Art Program Mondays-Fridays, 9:30am-2:30pm for children ages 3.5-8. Activities include ballet, creative dance, drama, yoga, and art projects including air-dry clay projects and three-dimensional painting, and outdoor activities. The Ballet Club also offers a Movement Mini-Camp for ages 3.5-8, from 9:30am-12:30pm, Mondays-Fridays. It is an exciting introduction to a full morning of activities, including alternating days of ballet, creative dance, drama, and yoga. You may pick and choose the weeks that you would like to attend. To register, contact The Ballet Club at (917)281-1030 or info@theballetclub.com. There are also Summer Intensives available July 13-31 and August 3-21. The Ballet Club Intensive offers three hours of training per day, five days a week, for students ages 7-14, and is an outstanding opportunity to rapidly improve a student’s fluency in ballet technique. The training includes daily ballet technique class, and alternating days of modern dance, floor barre, ballet history, drama, choreography, and composition. Please contact Ms. Easterling at (917)281-1030 or at mseasterling@theballetclub.com. The Barrow Group 312 West 36th Street NY, NY 10018 www.barrowgroup.org (212)760-2615 The award winning not-for-profit Barrow Group Theatre company offers oneand four-week acting intensives for kids (ages 7-10), tweens, (ages 11-13) and teens (ages 14-18). Youth programs focus on ensemble building games, script analysis, scene study, on camera work, rehearsal, and performance. The cur-

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CAMP DIRECTORY

riculum reinforces working with ease, clarity, and simplicity by encouraging an atmosphere of trust and play. Under the guidance of Barrow Group acting teachers, students rehearse and perform shorts scenes in the Barrow Group Studio Theatre at the culmination of the program. Camp Ramaquois 30 Mountain Road, Pomona, NY 10970 (845)354-1600 www.ramaquois.com Camp Ramaquois invites families to discover the day camp that is as complete as any sleepaway camp. Serving children as young as age 3 and older, Camp Ramaquois strives to create a unique environment where children feel a sense of belonging, learn lifelong skills, have opportunities for leadership, and forge lasting relationships with their peers and their counselors. All this is accomplished in a physically and emotionally safe environment that revolves around fun! The magnificent 40-acre facilities come complete with seven heated pools, softball and soccer fields, six tennis courts, an impressive five-acre spring-fed lake, basketball and volleyball courts, air-conditioned gym, dining room and craft shops, a multitude of age-appropriate daily activities and programs, and much more! Camp Ramaqouis is conveniently located in Rockland County, just minutes from the Palisades Parkway. Call today to arrange a private tour or visit their website to find out more. Camp SAY: The Stuttering Association for the Young 179 Blue Star Way, Hendersonville, NC 28739 (828)393-4244 www.campsay.org Camp SAY is a life changing summer camp for kids and teens who stutter. The experienced staff combines the highest-quality, traditional summer camp experience, with a broad range of activities and programs that empower young people. There is a culture of acceptance and positivity where stuttering– the trait that many kids feel separates them from others– actually unifies them at Camp SAY. The two-week sleep-away camp is located on a 500-acre, American Camp Association (ACA)-accredited facility, nestled in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Children and teens who stutter, ages 8-18, are welcome along with their young family members and friends, who want to share an incredible camp experience together. From the

June 2015 I parentguide News I 23

CAMP DIRECTORY moment that campers wake up, until it’s time for sleep, they are engaged in a virtually unlimited range of confidence building activities, including Arts and Crafts, Sports, Water Activities, Equestrian Program, Outdoor Activities, and Communication and Skill-Building Activities. If desired, Speech Therapy is available, too, with individual and group sessions, personalized to fit each child’s unique communication goals. Campers from across the country attend Camp SAY, and more than 80 percent of campers return year-after-year. Financial Aid is also available (on a needbasis), for camp tuition and travel. Learn more online at campsay.org, by e-mailing meg@say.org, or calling (828)393-4244. Chelsea Piers Summer Sports Camp Chelsea Piers 23rd Street and the Hudson River, NYC 10011 (212)336-6846 camps@chelseapiers.com www.chelseapiers.com/camps Chelsea Piers is home to 16 specialty sports camps for children and teens, ages 3 to 17 years. Since 1996, campers have enjoyed world-class facilities, expert instructors and the most exciting sports curriculum available, without leaving NYC! Camps include: Sports Academy, Elite Soccer, Basketball, Gymnastics, Golf, Performance Golf, Bowling, Ice Hockey, Acceleration Hockey, and Urban Adventure for teens; Junior Gymnastics, Ice Hockey and Ice Skating camps; and half-day Preschool Gymnastics and Ice Skating camps. Campers also enjoy several special activities including Harbor Cruises aboard a U.S. Coast Guard-certified vessel and appearances by professional athletes as well as World and Olympic competitors. Camps run June 22 through September 4, 2015, in one-week to 11-week options. Register on or before Friday, May 22 and receive Early Bird Pricing! Campers may enroll for one, two or more weeks. Friends Seminary 222 E. 16th St., NYC 10003 (646)979-5065 campinfo@friendsseminary.org www.friendsseminary.org Friends Seminary, founded in 1786, is the oldest continuing co-educational in-

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dependent school in New York City. Bordering Stuyvesant park, Friends educates students in grades k-12. Quaker values and academic rigor combine to create an environment nurturing to both the student and the global citizen. From June 15-July 31, the Summer Friends Day Camps adhere to school values with a touch of summertime whimsy for children ages 3-15. This summer in addition to the camps, innovative programs for older children are now available. For inquisitive young scientists, hands-on exploration with TekIntellect and BioBase and Needle Arts, and Fashion Camp with Handwork Studio. Back by popular demand is We Are Three- Friends’ innovative half-day program for 3 year olds, as well as the acclaimed Four’s and Fun, Fives and Fun and Creative Day Camp for children entering grades 1-5. The camp day will include individualized swimming instruction, creative arts workshops, Karma Kids Yoga, CATS tennis, Live Animals with the Nature Company, weekly drama, music and creative movement, exciting group games and sports, and dynamic and enriching field trips. To round it out, Summer Friends is proud to offer a camper-to-counselor ratio of 4-1 and 5-1. To accommodate working parents, Early Bird and Extended Day options are available. Attend for the summer or come for a week, but don’t miss out. 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, giving each child more individualized attention. Birthday parties at Kids at Art are the most creative in format and fun! At Kids at Art, the process is just as important as the finished project. Kids at Art is also available for private art class for five to ten children one time or once a week. Summer 2015 at Kids at Art is going to be a blast! This year, choose from a full-day (9am3pm) Mini Camp Workshop session, or a half-day (9am-noon) session for ages 4.5 and older. Workshops are available by the day, half-day, or the week. For the 2-4 year and the 5+ set, there is also a once per week class option this year. Please visit

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CAMP DIRECTORY the website for all schedules and to register: www.kidsatartnyc.com. 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. Dedicated and highly qualified staff lead a wide range of stimulating, handson activities for each child. Kid’s Korner offers a wonderful summer experience for children, as well. Kid’s Korner Summer Camp has music, yoga, dance, arts and crafts, water fun and more available. Children enjoy their afternoons in the school’s private playground painting, playing games and having fun with water. The playground is shaded in the afternoons and completely private from outside traffic. Children enjoy the comforting and relaxing atmosphere while socializing with their peers. The camp accommodates children ages 2 and 3 as well as pre-kindergarten students ages 4 and 5. Kid’s Korner Summer Camp hours will be 9am-5pm. Camp session I runs July 6-July 24, while camp session II runs July 27-August 14. Three-, Four- and Five-day options are available for full or half day. Come explore Kid’s Korner on an informative tour to see what all your friends are whispering about! Lavner Camps at New York University Kimmel Center 60 Washington Square South, NYC 10012 (610)664-8800 info@lavnercampsandprograms.com www.lavnercampsandprograms.com Lavner Camps is excited to offer the following cutting edge summer camps in the state-of-the-art Kimmel Center at NYU for campers age 6-12! July 6-August 14, 2015 Summer Camps include 3D Minecraft Camp, Computer Programming Camp with Java, Coding Camp with Scratch, Robotics Camp, Video Game Design Camp with Apps!, Fashion Design Camp, Jewelry Design Camp, and Chess Camp. Campers may attend camp for one week or multiple weeks! Private lessons are available before and after camp! Working within the “Lavner” philosophy of expertly designed curriculum, excellent instructors and staff, personal attention to campers, great locations, and attention to safety, the camps create a unique atmosphere of learning, friends, and fun! While they are tons of fun, camp curriculum is structured so that each camper is challenged and skill sets are improved. Lavner’s methods are proven, and campers succeed at camp and gain life skills for the future! Lavner Camps also offers a CIT Leadership Program for teens ages 13 to 15. CITs receive leadership training and get the opportunity to work with campers! Go online for more details and to register for camp! Full-day, early-arrival, and extended-day options are available.

side promises a fun-filled summer for children ages 2.5 to 5 years old. This six-week program is divided into three sessions that run from June 15-July 30. The Summer Program offers three programs for children: Peewee Program on Tuesdays-Thursdays, 9am-1pm; Classic Program on Mondays-Fridays, 9am-2pm; and Full-Day Program on Mondays-Fridays— add on 8-9am or extend the day until 4pm or 6pm. The program takes place in Morningside Montessori School’s sun-filled, air-conditioned classrooms. Staff is made up of experienced teachers and young adults. Special activities include yoga for kids, music with Tim!, arts and crafts, soccer, a learn-to-swim program, in-house trips, and sprinklers to cool off in. There is a spacious rooftop playground where children are free to play in the open space, try out climbers and ride on tricycles. An early-bird option is available for those children who need to begin their day at 8am. This option is open to children ages 3 to 5 years. For more information visit the website. Physique Swim Camp Pine St School, New York, NY 10005 Physique Summer Camp Swims at: Seahorse Aquatics Club 69 Columbia St, New York, NY 10002 (212)725-0939 www.physiqueswimming.com Physique Summer Camp, located in the heart of downtown Manhattan provides an inviting number of parks in NYC for sports, urban explorations and art. Camp Physique provides the opportunity to improve campers’ swimming skills and participate in outdoor adventures. An Olympic-size, indoor pool at Seahorse Aquatics Club, in the Lower East Side welcomes children ages 5-12 for an hour and a half of swim each day for progressive instructional classes and fun. Swimmers will be taught in small, skill-appropriate groups. Physique Camp focuses on improvement not only in swimming abilities, but in development of motor skills, coordination, flexibility and muscular strength. Campers of all different skill levels will discover a multitude of great aquatic programs throughout the summer, including: stroke development, basics of water polo and synchronize swimming, unbirthday parties in the water plus plenty of games and silly relays. Their highly trained, certified and experienced staff are committed to quality and excellence in everything they do

Little Picasso NYC 313 E. 61st St., NYC 10065 (646)559-1588 www.littlepicassonyc.com There are two artistic ways to celebrate summer at Little Picasso NYC. The Children’s Movement and Art Summer Day Camp is a joint program with the Ballet Club that runs June-August. This creative, nurturing, and fun movement and art is perfect for ages 3.5 to 8. All programs are taught by teachers with extensive training in their field and who are experienced working with children. There is a maximum of 12 students per group, with a staff-to-child ratio of at least one adult per five children. Art activities including sculpting with air dry clay, three dimensional paintings, animal drawings and portraits, and more, are held at Little Picasso NYC Children’s Art Studio. Ballet, creative dance, drama and yoga classes are held at The Ballet Club at 328 E. 61st St., second floor. The second program is an Art Only Summer series of workshops and individual classes available mornings and afternoons all summer long. Contact the studio for available spots in age-appropriate groups. Customized programs are available, but class sizes are limited and based on a first-come, first-serve basis. Learn more online or visit the studio today. Morningside Montessori School 251 W. 100th St., NYC 10025 (212)316-1555 info@morningsidemontessori.org www.morningsidemontessori.org Check out the Summer Program’s science focus! The Summer Program at Morning-

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CAMP DIRECTORY and will continually strive to meet the needs and expectations of campers and their families. Aside from swimming, the camp also has a great art program. Art activities include photography, printmaking, collages and more! RoboFun 2672 Broadway, Loft A, NYC 10025 (212)245-0444 robofun@vemny.org www.robofun.org This summer, send your child to RoboFun! Your junior engineer builds and designs their own LEGO robots (grades K-6), video games (grades 1-6), and stop-motion animation films (grades 4-6). Children work in groups of 10-14, with two teachers. The trained staff love children and work hard to make sure each camper has a fun time learning and building their own projects. During the morning session, campers dive into robotics, building their own motorized and programmable creations. Afternoon sessions offer experiments with video-game-design software, in which budding coders produce games they can share with their parents and friends, or script and shoot their own stop-motion animation film. RoboFun Summer Camp is equally suited for new and returning students in kindergarten-grades six, ages 5-12. Children should be registered for the camp program based on the grade they are entering in the fall. Camp runs June 8-September 4, Monday–Friday 9am–4pm (full day), 9am–noon or 1–4pm (half-day). One-week session are priced by full-day and half-day options. Register at robofun.org.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Speech Zone 2112 Broadway, NYC 10023 (212)799-1750 dkotlerslp@yahoo.com www.speechzonenyc.com Sign your little camper up for Summer 2015 at Camp Speech Zone. The program runs July 1-August 15, Mondays-Thursdays, 10am-1pm. This is a fun and educational summer camp for children with speech and language therapy needs. Children enrolled in Camp Speech Zone improve their speech, language, and pre-academic skills while having fun in the process! This three-hour camp is offered to children ages

Come Play& Learn!

Camp Speech Zone offers a fun and educational summer camp for children with speech and language therapy needs.

MONDAYS-THURSDAYS • 10AM-1PM • Ages 3 & Up • Improve Speech, Language & Pre-Academic Skills • Grouped according to age & communication abilities • Music, Sports, Cooking & Art • Therapy Rooms, Sensory Gym • Special Field Trips & Outings Communication goals include but are not limited to: articulation (with PROMPT trained therapists), vocabulary building, developing social skills, following directions, problem solving, and improving overall language structure.

2112 Broadway, New York, NY 10023 • 212.799.1750 www.speechzonenyc.com • dkotlerslp@gmail.com

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3 and older. Children are grouped according to their age and communication abilities. Activities, such as music, sports, cooking, and art take place in Speech Zone’s therapy rooms, sensory gym as well as special field trips and neighborhood outings. Communication goals include but are not limited to: articulation (with PROMPTtrained therapists), vocabulary building, developing social skills, following directions, problem solving, and improving overall language structure. Learn more and sign up today online. Summer at St. Barts 325 Park Ave., NYC 10022 (212)378-0203 info-camp@stbarts.org www.stbarts.org/summer-camp At Summer at St. Bart’s, campers ages 3-13 have week after week of fun! Each day includes swimming, sports, music, arts and crafts, a rooftop playground, dance and movement, and more! Running June 8-August 21, the day camp is perfect for ages 3-6, where campers are divided by age for appropriate programming. Junior Adventures for ages 6-7, and Adventure Camp for ages 8-13, are other fun-filled options for campers that include trips around the city. What’s the best part of the camp? All options include instructional swimming every day! Special events and theme weeks add to the fun. Late-morning and afternoon snacks are included, and an optional hot lunch is also available. For families with late-working parents, an after-camp program is available until 5:30pm MondayThursday, and a specialty cooking class is available on Wednesdays. To receive more information or schedule a tour, contact Summer at St. Bart’s at info-camp@ stbarts.org or (212)378-0203. Check out the online registration at www.stbarts. org/summer-camp.

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Summerside: The Riverside Church Weekday School Camp 490 Riverside Drive, NYC 10027 (212)870-6743 pmutarelli@theriversidechurchny.org www.weekdayschool-nyc.org Registration for the Summerside Camp program at Riverside Church Weekday School is underway. As in the past, Summerside is organized into two distinct camps each operating during three two-week sessions. The two camp offerings are The Mini-Camp (for children 2-3 years of age) and The Full-Day Camp (for children 3-6 years of age). The sessions for each camp are: June 15-26, June 29-July 10 (Not in session on July 3), and July 13-24. Snacks and lunch are provided at both camps. The Mini-Camp is staffed by two teachers with a cap of 12 children. The Full-Day Camp is staffed by two teachers with a cap of 18 children. Art, movement, and music classes are a part of each camp, providing additional enrichment activities for all of the children. In addition, the children in the Full-Day Camps participate in one local trip and one field trip to destinations around the city during each session. Current Weekday School families have priority in the registration for Summerside. Information and registration forms are available online at www.wdsnyc.org/pages/ summerside-camp, or by contacting Tricia Pool at tpool@wdsnyc.org. United Nations International School (UNIS) Summer Camp 24-50 FDR Drive, NYC 10010 (212)584-3084 or 3083 ljalilvand@unis.org www.unis.org From June 22-July 31, 2015, The United Nations International School (UNIS) Summer Camp provides recreational, academic, and enrichment activities in a supportive environment that fosters friendship, develops sportsmanship, and is nurturing in spirit. UNIS is located on three acres on the F.D.R. Drive at 25th Street and Waterside Plaza. Campers in pre-kindergarten to second grade participate in variety of activities: sports, music, arts and crafts, chess, tennis classes, etc. The indoor and outdoor programs vary depending on the age. Pre-third to pre-seventh graders may enjoy a Sports Camp that includes soccer, basketball, tennis, swimming, and a “RockSTAR” camp in partnership with the Star Education (selected as a “Model Program” by the White House and partner in STEM Education). The students play the guitar, the bass, the drums, the keyboards or vocals to perform classic Rock ‘n’ Roll hits. English and ESL classes are available for students coming from abroad. Pre-fifth to pre-eighth graders enjoy an exciting new development, UNIS has joined with i2 Camp, a national network of STEM programs to offer a broad range of fun, hands-on courses for middle school students. Additional information about the i2 camp, including registration, can be found at: http://i2camp.org/location/unis/.

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by Donald McDermott Is your child struggling with ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Autism/Aspbergers, or other learning and memory disorders? Do those struggles include having a hard time fitting in, difficulty making new friends, or a lack of interest in most physical activities? Now there is a program that can help. Sensory Taekwon-Do is a unique Martial Arts Program for children as young as 4 through 18 years old. It is a breakthrough martial arts program custom designed to fit each child’s neurological profile. The core of this program is extracted from cutting edge neurological studies that incorporate movement exercise to help create healthier pathways in the brain. By stimulating areas in the brain that incorporate balance, body awareness, muscle coordination, strength and working memory, Sensory Taekwon-Do promotes growth and improves connectivity. Children are often affected by a wide range of symptoms. To be effective, treatment requires a whole brain, whole body approach. This is achieved by incorporating a very personal, diverse one on one treatment program which includes nutritional coaching. All sessions are held in a warm, encouraging environment where young students can remain active while strengthening concentration, self confidence, coordination, mood, verbalization, social interactions, and independence. Sensory Taekwon-Do also incorporates the senses during each session. The auditory senses are stimulated by playing music specifically designed to right brain and left brain functions. Visual senses are used when students are modeling the instructor. Vestibular encompasses balance, and this is worked on heavily during every child’s session. Proprioceptive involves the sense of position of your body parts. Students must use this sense to focus on where they are placing their own body parts as they are performing the martial art exercise. The tactile or sense of touch is brought in throughout the program with the climbing wall, balls and other equipment that is used during the group. The acclaimed program was created by and is run by Dr. Kerry Escamilla, a licensed chiropractor and 2nd Degree Black Belt in TaekwonDo. He has advanced training in neurology and functional medicine with an emphasis on early childhood spectrum disorders. Conducting years of brain research and biomedical interventions, Dr. Escamilla has treated many children using a unique whole brain/whole body approach to treatment that has its roots in his marital arts background. As a 2nd degree black belt, he also knows the benefits martial arts have for children with special needs. It has shown to improve concentration and your needs, your neighborhood

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Dr. Kerry Escamilla is the Creator and Director of Sensory Taekwon-Do, located at 155 South Washington Ave., Bergenfield. Find out more about their innovative programs for children and adults, afterschool classes, and birthday parties by calling (201)384-2424. You can also visit them online at www.sensorytkd.com. focus by providing a consistent and highly structured environment. In fact, his program has now evolved to include sensory integration therapies and nutritional interventions, making it a truly whole body/whole brain approach to treatment. According to Dr. Escamilla, “As a child I struggled with symptoms of ADHD. My ability to learn and have empathy were intact, however impulsivity, distraction, anxiety, and disorganization was a challenge.” He went on to college and became a doctor of chiropractic, which emphasizes a holistic and healthy lifestyle. Throughout school Dr. Escamilla realized a strong interest in neurology. Six years into practice he began to study Taekwondo. Two years later, he began to notice some significant improvement in the areas that he had previously struggled. Fast forward ten years. A 5 year old girl with behavioral issues motivated him to find more answers. He attended a series of seminars on early child learning and behavioral disorders that taught intricate details of brain function and treatment theories. Dr. Escamilla put them into practice with the same little girl and within a short time the family saw dramatic changes in her behavior. In 2006 he enrolled in a Functional Neurology diplomat program and read everything he could on the subject. Soon after, Dr. Escamilla began melding Taekwondo, Occupational therapy, and functional neurology into one fun, challenging and successful program. A strong desire to help more children inspired him to build a Taekwondo school of his own with instructors trained to understand and work with children on the spectrum. This also allowed him more freedom to focus on the functional neurology and nutritional needs of the children. The cultural aspects, along with the disciplines built into the martial arts makes for a fantastic behavioral and functional neurology assessment tool. While children move along the curriculum, they encounter challenges in behavior and movement. Instructors are trained in observational skills to spot issues that require therapeutic interventions gained from functional neurology and understanding ASD’s thought process. Dr. Escamilla explains, “Our parent testimonials speak for themselves. We consistently break through in environmental and self-awareness, coordination, socialization, verbalizations, engagement, academics and performing TKD!” In the end this all adds to a mentally and physically healthier child. Donald McDermott is a co-editor. June 2015 I parentguide News I 27

Help! “My 3-week-old sleeps all day and is up all night!” “My 6-week-old baby screams every day from 6-8pm.” “Our newborn only sleeps in our arms.” These are all pleas I hear from new parents (often sent in the wee hours of the morning). While I wish that I could help them teach their babies to sleep, the reality is that for the first six-eight weeks of a (full-term) baby’s life, there is nothing you can do to influence their schedule or teach them sleeping skills. Of course, there are the blessed few with dream babies who sleep day and night from day one. For the rest of us, there are ways to cope:

A Cure for the Confusion?

The dreaded day/night confusion! Babies are born without a clock awareness. Our bodies follow circadian rhythms that are controlled by external light and dark cues. Without these rhythms present, a newborn’s sleep lacks any pattern. Unfortunately there isn’t a lot you can do to fix this issue. Some babies respond well to light therapy- making sure they are exposed to sunlight upon waking 28 I parentguide News I June 2015

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and through the day and then come evening, dimming all of the lights in the house until bedtime. This can start to prime their biological clock. It is also helpful to keep the room dim for any night feedings and to interact with your baby as little as possible so they understand that it is in fact time to sleep and not play. When you are in the thick of day/night confusion it seems utterly horrible, but remind yourself that it is only for a short time and that all babies grow out of it by six weeks of age.

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Like Schedule Schmedule!

If your baby could talk, that is what he would tell you about that. It is impossible to get a baby under eight weeks on anything that www.facebook.com/parentguidenews resembles a consistent schedule. One day there will be a two-hour morning nap then next day that nap will be 30 minutes. No circadian rhythm equals no sleep schedule. If you are in need of a rule that you can apply to your newborn’s sleep, here it is: your baby cannot handle being awake for longer than 45-60 minutes at a time for the first two months of their life. So make sure to keep an eye on the clock and provide your little one with a nap when the time rolls around. If you can hit that mark and get your baby down for a nap before he becomes overtired, not only will you have a happier, better-rested baby, but in a matter of weeks you will see a true schedule emerging.

That Dreaded Time of Day

Most of us have heard of the Witching Hour, that lovely time of day when your precious baby just doesn’t seem so precious. Most parents assume it’s just something that they have to live with until

their baby grows out of it. Maybe, but remember that wakeful period we just discussed? With 99% of the newborns I have worked with, once their caregivers were watching the clock and taking care that their baby was asleep before they became overtired, it disappeared! For many babies, the witching hour is just the baby’s way of saying, “I am really tired here.” If your baby’s Witching Hour begins in the early evening around 6pm or later, opt for an early bedtime instead trying to squeeze in one last nap. Yes, your baby may be ready for a feed just three hours later (at your bedtime– bonus!), but they will be happy, rested and not screaming through your dinner.

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I Want a Golden Goose Now, Daddy! Like

While none of us want to raise a spoiled child, this is one time you do not need to worry about that occurring. You cannot spoil a baby under eight weeks of age or do anything that will impact their ability towww.facebook.com/parentguidenews learn to self-soothe at a later date! Do whatever it takes to get your baby and you the sleep you need. Be it a pacifier, a swing, your arms, white noise, a swaddle– figure out what works for your baby and it will help save your sanity in those early days. Amy Lage is a Family Sleep Institute certified Child Sleep Consultant. She is co-owner of Well Rested Baby (www.wellrestedbaby. com). She offers a host of services that can be tailored to meet any family’s needs and schedule.

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your needs, your neighborhood

June 2015 I parentguide News I 29

Woman oman mom

Plan to be Happy

For the Woman behind the Mom

Organizing Your Family Planner

by Marisa Mancini

It’s no easy task to keep track of doctor appointments, family get-togethers, playdates, extra-curricular activities, vet appointments, dinners, homework time, and household chores. More often than not, these logistics fall in the hands of the mom. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom, a work-from-home mom, or a mom with a demanding career, planners keep all your family’s appointments and activities organized, and your household running smoothly.

Find Your Perfect Planner.

In my quest to find the most functional way to become more organized, I discovered the wonderful world of planners. As I researched this newto-me world, I learned that there are so many different types of planners, each as unique as every individual. From ring-bound binders, to spiral weekly books, and even plain notebooks, there is something out there for you. Being able to personalize your planner to your specific needs sets you up for success. No more missed appointments or forgotten activities.

Get Creative.

Once all the functionality of a planner is set up, it’s time for the fun. Today’s planners are not what you had in middle school. If I have to use and look at this thing every day, several times a day, I want it to look gorgeous! Not only have planners helped me with organization, it has produced a wonderful outlet for me to be creative. Making my planner beautiful with so many craft mediums has sparked my imagination. Using stickers, washi tape, colored markers, scrapbook paper, and even stamps, has become extremely satisfying and enjoyable. Making dividers and dashboards, then adding embellishments– like decorative paper clips and journaling cards with your favorite or inspiring quotes– makes it special. You can choose a theme or color that represents you. With the rise of planner popularity, many craft stores, paper-goods stores, and gift shops are carrying these supplies! For those not so into making your own tags, dividers, and paper clips, online stores such as Etsy sell every type of planner embellishment you can imagine.

Join the Community.

There is a ton of inspiration online. Planners have become an avenue to be creative and come together in new ways for so many. Youtube is also a wonderful resource for the DIYer. There are so many tutorials on how to make planner pages and all different kinds of embellishments. 30 I parentguide News I June 2015

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Another place to find encouragement and inspiration is Instagram. This is where I found a wonderful community of ladies who love to be beautifully organized. Though, I have always been a list maker, now I have a tangible system that I can make it gorgeous. It has made my life and my family’s life a little more peaceful. I hope it does the same for you! Plan to be happy!

Organizing Inspiration Compartmentalizing helps tackle numerous tasks more easily. Here are just some ways you can organize your planner! • Calendar. According to month, track appointments, bills due and paid, paydays, family get-togethers, date night, my son’s activities, and vacations. Divided by week, household chores, family meals; as well as, personal tracking such as water intake,TV shows to watch, and planned blogging posts are tracked. • Family. Daily routines; daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines; pet routines, my health tracker, and children’s school activities are kept here. • Lists. From your grocery list, daily to-do list, to-buy list (including all non-grocery items), books-to-read list, wish lists for family members, and password trackers are kept here. Finances. Keep track of all my purchases, online orders, and future sales to take advantage of should be noted here. • Contacts. Though most do not take advantage of this section because they keep this information in their phone, in the event of an emergency (including a lost, broken, or stolen phone), the contact information of important people and places might save a life. • Notes. Jot down anything and everything in this section! Utilize this as a brain dump-- keep sticky notes, ideas, tasks or things to come back to at a later time, can all be kept here. Marisa Mancini is a Quality Control Analyst/ Chemist at Biodel. She lives in Brewster, New York, with her husband of 10 years, active 6-yearold son, and two fur babies. You can find more crafts and planner inspiration from Marisa by following her on Instagram @kaidensmomplans. parentguidenews.com

Woman oman mom

by Samantha Chan

For the Woman behind the Mom

1 Say goodbye to frizz and dullness thanks to this 100 percent Ceramic Iron, that emits negative ions. José Eber hair tools include only the most superior designs and cutting-edge features. www.joséeberhair.com

2 PMD is about to be your new best friend. Convenient, and cost-effective, this hand-held microdermabrasion system combines exfoliation with powerful suction to give you vibrant, beautiful skin. PMD is also safe for use during pregnancy. www.getpmd.com

Proof

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3 Protect your skin this summer with the full line of chic, sun-protective clothing with a UPF 50+ from SummerSkin. www.yoursummerskin.com

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 4 Bold brows are in! Frame your face and create the perfect natural looking brow that won’t fade throughout the day using the Brow Bar To Go by Whitening Lightning, an all-in-one compact featuring two brow powders, a brow wax, and angled brush for precise application. www.whiteninglightning.com

5 This summer, enjoy single-serve, resealable containers of wine, available in Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a Red Blend. Shatterproof, and requires no glass or corkscrews, these are great for people who aren’t looking to waste a full bottle just for one glass! www.drinkstack.com.

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

Samantha Chan is a co-editor.

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This is your opportunity to win some very exciting products and/or services featured in this issue’s Health, Travel, Update, and WoMom columns. Log onto www.parentguidenews.com, find the “Win This Product” logo on our homepage, follow some simple directions, and good luck. your needs, your neighborhood

book online at blomedry.com

June 2015 I parentguide News I 31

DaD’S cornEr 1

1 BottlePops are sports-themed bottle openers that make fun sounds when you use them. Each opener has 15-25 exciting sound clips, including the ever popular “Gooooaaaaalllll” for soccer. www.bottlepops.com

Proof 4

by Donald McDermott

2 Guys who like gadgets are sure to love ShaveTech, a sleek, stylish, easy-to-charge electric razor that is also completely affordable and packable. www.shavetech.com 3 Help the special man in your life up his grilling game with a little help from GrillGrate, a set of interlocking panels that are the perfect way to create perfectly cooked steak, chicken, pork, fish, veggies, and even pizza! www.grillgrate.com

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 4 Dads can spend some fun-filled quality time with their little ones thanks to Endless Games, an array of travel and board games that are ideal for players from ages 3 to 103! www.endlessgames.com 5 Vintage Marquee Lights are here to light up dad’s man cave! Use initials, his favorite symbol or spell out his favorite expression to brighten up and liven up any room in the house or patio. www.vintagemarqueelights.com

Donald McDermott is a co-editor.

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Travel Spotlight Land of Make Believe Route 80, Exit 12 Hope, New Jersey 07844 (908)450-9000 www.lomb.com Land of Make Believe, the Number-one amusement park in North Jersey, is the perfect day trip destination! Their new ride, “Drop ‘N’ Twist,” together with the popular “Pirate’s Escape” ride will take you for the thrill of a lifetime! LOMB’s secret is, it was specifically built for parents to participate with their children. A magical amusement park and a pirate-themed state-of-the-art water park features short lines, free parking, low prices and awesome family fun. Extraordinary summer fun awaits you and your family for a full day of river tubing, water slides, hayrides, roller coaster, ferris wheel, 1863 train ride, tilt-a-whirl, talking scarecrow, Old McDonald’s Farm, carousel, and the list goes on. Bring your own food and enjoy the beautiful picnic grove. A safe, wholesome family atmosphere is just down the road, minutes away. Visit them on Facebook or at www.lomb.com. The 2015 grand ppening happens Memorial Day Weekend, May 22-25. They will be open weekends in June, then daily from June 20-Labor Day, September 7, 10am-6pm.

PROOF

Smugglers’ Notch Vermont 4323 Vermont Route 108 South, Smugglers’ Notch, VT 05464 (866)771-3717 www.smuggs.com/pg In the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Smugglers’ Notch Resort provides all the ingredients for a perfect Summer family vacation. All you need to do is add your family! No other family Summer resort offers such a wide variety of programs and activities. The FamilyFest and Adventure Connection vacation packages include accommodations in a comfortable, fully equipped condominium home, unlimited access to four waterparks including eight pools and four waterslides, award-winning kids’ programs for ages 6 weeks-17 years, guided hikes, walks and much more. All just a short walk or an in-resort shuttle ride to the Village Center with dining and shopping. The SimplySmuggs vacation package offers the same family activities and makes kids’ programs available at a significant discount. The ArborTrek Zip Line Canopy Tour adds a heightened level of excitement to your experience. Soar down more than 4,000 feet of zip lines, cross suspension bridges, rappel from trees— it’s the adventure of a lifetime. Smugglers’ offers a perfect, self-contained resort village where your family can relax, have fun and reconnect. For more than 50 years, Smugglers’ Notch has been helping families create memories that last a lifetime! Call (866)771-3717 or visit www.smuggs.com/pg to make your reservation today!

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

PROOF

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

It’s not just about getting away. it’s about getting together.

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your needs, your neighborhood

At the #1 Kid-Friendly Resort, we’ve got the biggest and best backyard imaginable. It’s filled with mountains, waterparks, and so much more! We’re the ideal Summer setting for those little moments that’ll stick with you and your kids for a lifetime. Customize your trip with one call to our Vacation Planning Specialists.

1.866.771.3717 smuggs.com/pg June 2015 I parentguide News I 33

TRAVEL

by Donald McDermott

1 The lightweight, easy to install Little Tikes belt-positioning High Back Booster allows your child to travel safely and comfortably by raising him or her up to the proper height for the seat belt. www.littletikes.com

3 2

2 Scorch the Dragon,Ava the Dolphin and Ray the Manta are the newest arrivals from SoapSox Kids.These cuddly 2 in 1 companions will make your child’s bath time even more fun at home or while you’re away! www.soapsoxkids.com

PROOF 4

PROOF

3 Featuring durable nylon fabrics, quick access top zipper, water and abrasion-resistant body armor base panel, and a reversible silver/black WeatherWrap™ rain cover, the new Tenba Switch is a unique camera bag complete with customizable patterns and colors. www.tenba.com/Collections/switch.aspx

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

4 Brackitz, the new construction system for kids ages 3 and up, is specially designed to encourage healthy playtime, spark the imagination, and promote social and collaborative interaction. www.brackitz.com 5 Stain-resistant, machine-washable, and easy to get on and off, Nomie Baby provides an array of car seat covers and stroller blankets that are sure to make your summer travels even easier. www.nomiebaby.com Go to www.parentguidenews.com for a chance to win these great prizes!

SK 6/15

Donald McDermott is a co-editor.

0 0 1 $ n i W

our Y d r a w o T ty! r a P y a d h Birt t x e N s ’ d l i Ch Calling All October Birthdays!

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

Save BIG at www.parentguidenews.com

Turn your child’s special day into something spectacular. 34 I parentguide News I June 2015

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HEALTH

by Samantha Chan

16 Research has revealed so much about babies’ development.

1 Remove tangles and tears from bath 9 time with Detangling Spray from Daniel Galvin Jr.The products are free of parabens, mineral oils, and animal ingredients, and are hypoallergenic, so they are gentle and effective. www.danielgalvinjunior.com

7 Milkie’s Nursing Time Tea is the all-natural herbal tonic designed to help nursing mothers increase their milk flow and soothe digestive unease for both Mommy and baby. www.fairheavenhealth.com

2 G.H. Cretors popcorn is a whole grain snack that is NonGMO Project-verified, free from artificial flavors and colors, and preservatives.Available in Chicago Mix, , Just the Caramel, Just the Cheese, Organic Simply Salted, and Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil. www.ghcretors.com

Learn how to stimulate your child’s development in the first 20 months with The Wonder Weeks (Kiddy World Publishing), a guide for parents. www.thewonderweeks.com

8 Clif, a known name in healthy and energizing snacks, presents Zfruit, a 100 percent real fruit twisted into a fun rope shape for when kids want a tangy and chewy alternative to candy. www.clifbar.com

3 Preggie Pops are all-natural sucking candies that alleviate nausea associated with morning sickness.They provide a great energy 7 well, and are approved for use in the delivery room! boost as www.preggiepops.com

9 Dapple Baby’s new Dishwasher Pods bring natural cleaning power to your dishwasher, giving parents total peace of mind 4 cleaning up after baby’s mealtime. Even better, Dapple’s when Dish Pods and Dish Liquid are now available at Target! www.dapplebaby.com

4 Ideal for lunch or after school, stock up on Clif Zbars in Protein Chocolate Chip and Iced Lemon Cookie. Made with organic whole grains, and certified organic, this is a snack you can feel good about giving to your kids. www.clifbar.com.

10 SoapBox Soaps, an all-natural soap company, announces their new haircare product line. In conjunction with Splash, for every item SoapBox sells, they donate a month’s supply of clean water to a child in need around the world. www.soapboxsoaps.com

5 All-natural Baby Probiotic Drops from Mommy’s Bliss are pediatrician-recommended, 100 percent vegan, and safely and effectively eases babies’ digestion. www.mommysbliss.com Samantha Chan is a co-editor.

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June 2015 I parentguide News I 35

Suffolk

Calendar of Events Nassau Manhattan June 1-7 Queens

June 1: Hudson RiverKids, Hudson River Park at Pier 25, West Street, www.hudsonriverpark.org. Head to the river this summer to see NYC performers put on shows for you and your little ones. This time it’s Rollie Pollie Guacamole putting on an evening of storytelling, musical, and interactive entertainment for the whole family. All ages are welcome. 6:30pm.

Westchester

June 6: First Saturdays for Families, New Museum of Contemporary Art, 235 Bowery, www.newmuseum.org. In this month’s edition of the free family program, little ones see science, art, and technology intersect. Kids get to make music by licking popsicles, turn ideas into objects, and create animations for Disco Dog, the world’s first smartphone-controlled LED dog vest. Appropriate for ages 3-12. 10am. June 6-7: New York Theatre Ballet Presents Carnival of the Animals, French Institute Alliance Française, Florence Gould Hall, 55 E. 59th St., www.fiaf.org. Peek into an enchanted forest full of wild creatures with the newest production in this successful children’s series. Find out what

JUNE 2015

happens when two lost kids stumble into Queen Diana’s colorful animal kingdom and encounter vibrant costumes, the realistically mossy forest backdrop, and the quirky live piano music. All ages. 11am, 1pm, 3:30pm. June 7: Family Art Adventure: Paper Marbling, 92Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., (212)415-5780, www.92y.org. Spend the day making beautiful marbled paper with this fun and messy art project. Kids then turn their creations into a pocket notebook or sketchbook to take home. All ages are welcome. 10am.

June 8-14 Opening June 8: Milstein Science Series 2015, American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, (212)769-5100, www.amnh.org. This series gives you and your family a healthy dose of way-cool science during a three-part series celebrating the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life. Take a ride through the solar system for a unique view of the deep blue from the Geodome during Water World: Immersive Dome Experience. Through July 11. 10am. June 8-19: JCC NYC Adventurers, JCC in Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave.,(646)505-5708, www.jccmanhattan.org. Hit the streets and explore all that Gotham has to offer in a fun-filled program to kick off summer vacation. Trips include exploring the Brooklyn Bridge, mini-golfing at Pier 25, excursions to the Museum of Mathematics or Yankee Stadium and more. Ages 6–10. 8:45am each morning. June 11: Discovery Day, Lucy Moses School, 129 W. 67th St., (212)501-3360, www.kaufmanmusiccenter.org/lms. Young rockers and jazz babes test out guitars, oboes, trumpets, and other instruments with professionals from Kaufman Music Center’s Lucy Moses School. Catch short performances by Lucy Moses students in Merkin Concert Hall, or a 20-minute Dalcroze Eurhythmics class. Reservations recom-

June 4 Lawn Time on the High Line, Washington Street at Gansevoort Street, (212)206-9922, www.thehighline.org. If bubbles, stories, and sing-alongs are something that make your family happy, drop by the 23rd Street Lawn for an hour led by community favorites like the New York Public Library and Housing Works. Appropriate for ages up to 5-years-old. 10am.

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June 13

stories and poems from Free to Be...You and Me and leading kids in songs and games. Appropriate for ages 2 to 8. 1pm. mended. Appropriate for ages 4 and older. 4pm. June 13: Toddlers Rock! Concert Series, Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., (212)721-1223, www.cmom.org. Check out the music-themed pop-up playspace from Frolic!, then stick around for a live show on the mini stage. Favorite kindie artists perform on select Saturdays this summer to round out the rock and roll experience. Appropriate for ages 0–5. 11am. June 13: FamilyDay@theCenter: SoHo’s Cast Iron Architecture, Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place, (212)358-6133, http://cfa.aiany. org/index.php?section=calendar&evtid=8206. Armed with magnets, explore SoHo’s historic cast iron buildings to see how this new material and construction system transformed SoHo from a residential area to the commercial hotspot it is today. Back at the Center, kids design their own building facades in the SoHo style. 11am-1pm, and 2-4pm.

June 19 Swedish Midsummer Festival, Wagner Park, Battery Place, www.bpcparks.org. Celebrate the longest day of the year with folk dances from Barnklubben Elsa Rix and the Swedish Folkdancers of New York. Families are invited to make midsummer wreaths, and enjoy Swedish snacks, and children’s games. 5-8pm.

Proof

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

June 14: Le Carrousel Magique, Le Carrousel, Bryant Park, W. 40th St., (212)768-4242, www.bryantpark.org. Gather at Le Carrousel, where master magicians (from popular show Monday Night Magic) enrapture youngsters with sophisticated tricks and sleight-of-hand stunners. Appropriate for ages 2-8. 1pm.

June 4

June 15-21 Lawn Time on the High Line, Washington Street at

Gansevoort Street, (212)206-9922, www.thehighline.org. June 15: Outdoor Movie Night, Randalls Island, (212)427-5689, If bubbles, stories, and sing-alongs are on something www.randallsislsand.org. Settle into the lawn Randall’s that Island for make your family happy, drop by the 23rd Street LawnMovie a family-friendly flick each month this summer. The Outdoor for an hour community favorites likeJune the15, New Yorkout Nights kick off led withby summertime classic Jaws on Check thePublic onlineLibrary scheduleand for Housing future flicks. Picnicking is encouraged. Works. Appropriate for agesEach screening takes place at10am. the touchdown of the 103rd Street pedestrian up to 5-years-old. bridge near Field 84. All ages are welcome. 7:30pm.

June 20 Natural Areas Exploration Days, Randall’s Park Alliance, 20 Randall’s Island Park, (212)860-1899 ext. 722, info@randallsisland.org. Families with children of all & Peas, the Soul Summit Music crew, and Kervyn Mark. Log onto the webages are location inviteddetails. to come explore Randall’s site for the various All ages are welcome. 2pm. Island’s wetlands and other natural areas. Learn from natural June 20: Theexperts Art Yard,asMadison Squarethe Park, 23rd Street to 26th areas you explore Island’s diverse plant Street, and (212)538-1884, www.madisonsquarepark.org. animal communities 10am-1pm. This Mad. Sq.

June 18: Alastair Moock Celebrates! Madison Square Park, 24th Street and Madison Ave., www.madisonsquarepark.org/kids/kids-concerts. Bostonbased artist Alastair Moock celebrates the release “All Kinds of You and Me,” a collection of songs. Moock’s musical career has always been deeply entwined with his passion for education and social action. His Grammynominated children’s album Singing Our Way Through was created as a free resource for families struggling with childhood illness. 10:30am. June 19: Sweet Spot Festival, www.sweetspotfestival.com. Enjoy authentic Jamaican food, lively music, dance parties, a vintage craft pop-up market, free fitness workshops, and art displays in Harlem. This month’s Jamaican Indepen-dance bash features DJs including Herbert Holler, DJ MoMA, Rice

June 13 Flaubert Frog & Friends, Le Carrousel, Bryant Park, West 40th Street, (212)7684242, www.bryantpark.org. Don’t miss this chance to visit Bryant Park’s 14-animal merry-go-round, where kids find a storytelling amphibian and his feline pal Cali Co Cat, presenting stories and poems from Free to Be...You and Me and leading kids in songs and games. Appropriate for ages 2 to 8. 1pm. your needs, your neighborhood

June 19 Swedish Midsummer Festival, Wagner Park, Battery

June 21 My City Park!, Bowling Green Park, 11 Broadway, (646)2501178, www.nycchildrenstheater.org. Bring your children ages 3-8 to learn a story about the importance of green spaces in urban environments to various parks throughout NYC. With the help of Odessa the Owl and Bucky the Squirrel, young Milo embarks on a mission to save his favorite city park from being torn down and replaced by a shopping mall. 1pm.

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Calendarof Events Kids workshop series invites youngsters to spend their summer days picking up new skills and enjoying live entertainment. Track down June 13 cool demos from local teaching artists and be ready to jump in to a fun, hands-on activity with help from Mom or Dad. Throughout the Flaubert Frog & Friends, kids can further Le summer, Carrousel, Bryant Park, explore the park’s newest installation “Fata Morgana,” try their hand at weaving, cartooning, and puppetry. Check West 40th Street, (212)768the website for a full schedule of workshops. Ages 1–12. 9am.

4242, www.bryantpark.org. Don’t miss this chance to visit Bryant Park’s 14-animal merry-go-round, where June Washington Square Music Festival, Fifth Avenue, Waverly kids find23: a storytelling Place, West 4th Street, and Macdougal Street; www.nycgovparks.org. amphibian and his feline pal Cali Co Cat, presenting stories and poems from Free to Be...You and Me and leading kids June in songs20 and games. Appropriate for ages 2 to 8. 1pm.

June 22-30

Natural Areas Exploration Days, Randall’s Park Alliance, 20 Randall’s Island Park, (212)860-1899 ext. 722, info@randallsisland.org. Families with children of all June 19 ages are invited to come explore Randall’s Island’s wetlands and other natural areas. Learn from natural Swedish Midsummer Festival, Wagner Park, Battery areas experts as you Celebrate explore the plant Place, www.bpcparks.org. theIsland’s longestdiverse day and animal communities 10am-1pm. of the year with folk dances from Barnklubben Elsa Rix and the Swedish Folkdancers of New York. Families are invited to make midsummer wreaths, and enjoy Swedish snacks, and children’s games. 5-8pm.

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June 25: Recess Monkey, Madison Square Park, 23rd Street to 26th Street, (212)538-1884, www.madisonsquarepark.org. Recess Monkey “Hot Air” NYC debuts here and now! Recess Monkey is a nationally acclaimed trio of teacher rockers from Seattle, and this event marks the NYC debut of their latest album. 10:30am. June 26-27: Taste Asia Food Fest 2015, Times Square, at 43rd and 44th Streets on Broadway, (212)580-0835, www.tasteasia.org. This free two-day foodie extravaganza featuring the culinary genius of some of the best chefs in the business, including many Michelin-starred names. Enjoy yummy tastings and live cultural performances, demonstrations and competitions. All-day long. June 27: Dragon Boat Festival, Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., (212)619-4785, www.mocanyc.org. Paddle down to the Dragon Boat Festival and find out what a poet, zong zi, and dragon boats have in common. Space is limited, advance purchase recommended. Full festival schedule TBA. 12-4pm. June 28: Summer 2015 Scandinavian Music Festival Children’s Concert, Fort Tyron Park: Billing Lawn, Washington Heights, (212)7951388, www.nycgovparks.org. Danish opera company Pin-Upera presentsa mini opera, Clumsy Hans for family audiences. Based on text from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale and music selected from popular opera solos and duets, this production introduces the world of opera to children as well as adults, and educates listeners on standard opera repertoire and traditions. Bring a blanket and enjoy this free performance with the back-drop of views of the Hudson River. 2-3pm.

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

UPDATE

by Donald McDermott

1 Available in scented oils and room sprays, Air Wick changes the home fragrance category with a Life ScentsTM Collection that uses a new scent technology with constantly changing fragrances crafted to mimic real life experience. www.airwick.us

6 The Case Studio provides fashionable and extra durable tech cases that add a modern personalization to any cell phone or tablet, from personal photos and logos to artwork and any other creative ideas. www.thecasestudio.com

2The gift that keeps on giving, Candideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3-in-1 MultiRelaxÂŽ provides comfort and support during pregnancy, is the perfect prop for breastfeeding, and cradles baby at an incline in sweet softness. www.Amazon.com

7 Because little ones love being wrapped in their favorite animal friend after a bath or swim, Zoochini offers super soft bath mitts and cozy hooded towels for babies and kids. www.zoocchini.com

3 The Black and Decker 5 Minute Pizza Oven & Snack Maker makes snack time unforgettable with speedy settings that are perfect for creating everything from pizza, garlic knots and frozen snacks to cookies and cinammon rolls. www.blackanddeckerappliances.com

8 Put down the smart phones and other electronic devices and get outside as a family with Rollers, the perfect outdoor game to bring families together during your next bbq, trip to the beach, vacation, camping trip, or other getaway. www.rollers.com

4 With the Little Tikes Sit & Play Bouncer, you can keep your baby entertained with fun toys or simply relaxed with soothing nature sounds and calming vibrations for the ultimate relaxation for your baby. www.littletikes.com

9 The first-ever Vegan sneakers for kids with customizable hand-drawn Frieze Tags, Fayvel sneakers feature limited-edition patches in a variety of themes that are easily interchangeable and can be traded with friends! www.fayvelwear.com

5 Featuring a soft and flexible design that provides the perfect distraction for curious babies who like to touch, tug, and chew on the go, Chewbeads Gramercy Stroller Toys and car seat attachments are 100% silicone and 100% fun. www.chewbeads.com

10 An invite and online fun all in one, Marked Private Invite Bandz are an all-encompassing online party planning tool that combine a physical invitation with an online social experience that adds a special touch to any party or special event. www.markedprivate.com

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

SK 6/15

Donald McDermott is a co-editor.

Win

The nerf Action CAM

Do your kids have pictures with Dad that they’ll cherish for years to come and even share with Pop’s future grandchildren? If so, submit a snapshot that showcases the father-child bond at www.parentguidenews.com by June 30. In honor of the man of the house, we’ll post select entries online so viewers can vote for their favorites. Vote once a day until July 31 for your best chance to win. The contestant with the most votes receives the Nerf Action CAM. The CAM, available at Toys R Us, allows kids to capture memories with an easy to use camera specifically designed for younger handlers.

Visit www.parentguidenews.com for contest details.