PARENTGUIDE News October 2013 - Westchester Edition by PARENTGUIDE News

OCTOBER 2013

Westchester

Party Time

Places, entertainers, & services inside

Sensory Processing Disorders How to help

Trying to Conceive?

Advice & insight

www.parentguidenews.com Over 1,000 Exciting Family Events K

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table of

PROOF

table of

October 2013 Volume 30 • Number 10

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

P. 20

Fall into Autumn Photo Contest.................................. 19

Birthday on a Budget................. 20

Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 31

Birthday Directory.................. 22

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

A great bash doesn’t have to break the bank.

This month’s entertainment and activities.

Party places and entertainers for the happiest of occasions.

Update............................................................................. 27 Essential products and information for your brood.

Health............................................................................. Now, www.parentguidenews.com makes30 Insight and items for your family’s care.

it easy and affordable to place

Special Needs

In Season........................................................................ ADVERTISING DIRECTLY ONLINE. 34

Does your child have one?

Just click on the “advertising information” link at the top of the www.parentguidenews.com What’s Happening......................................................... 31 home page and follow the simple A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, performances and events. steps to take your business to a totally new place.

Plan fall fun for all.

Sensory Processing Disorders.......... 16

Health & Fitness

Bonus

P. 16

Increase Fertility..................................................... 12

Cover Credit: www.chasing-fireflies.com

Tips to help you thrive and improve your health.

Publisher Steve Elgort

Please note that you can always Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina receive personal assistance by Managing Editor Donald McDermott calling the Advertising Direct Associate Editor Samantha Chan Helpline at (212) Editorial213-8840, Intern Kristan ext. Morley224 or e-mailing usKimball, at Ilana Rispoli Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski advertisingdirect@parentguidenews.com.

Nutrition Q & A: Round 2........................................ 14

P. 10

PROOF

With Stacey Antine, M.S., R.D.

Features

Homemade Halloween....... 10

Accounting Teresa Pinargote

Create characters and costumes.

Contributing Writers Stacey Antine, Julia Darrenkamp, Kim Guiley, K.T. Korngold, Kelsey Layer, Victoria Maizes, Phyllis Ohr, Teresa Tayler, Louise Weadock

Current Events......................... 18 Talking to kids about today’s tough topics.

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

Time Management........................................................... 28

PGTV Producer Beth Elgort

A layered approach.

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; 212213-8840. Copyright 2013 PGMNC. All rights reserved.

Feeling Good, Looking Good........................................... 29 Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous.

October 2013 I parentguide News I

contents contents

table of

Campus

Gymnastics Birthday Parties October 2013 Volume 30 • Number 10

October 2013 Volume 30 • Number 10

Contests

Enjoy one hour of gymnastics fun and party

games with our coaches on the gym floor! Birthday Coverage

Fall into Autumn Photo Contest.................................. 19

Saturdays and Sundays are available. Birthday on Call for reservations. P. 20 a Budget................. 20 A great doesn’t Helping to build Healthy Bodies and bash Strong Minds

Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 31

Columns

have to break the bank.

Birthday and Preschool, recreational Directory.................. 22 team classes available. Party places and

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

entertainers for the

Update............................................................................. 27

Directors: happiest of occasions. Teodora Cepoi- Olympic Silver Medalist Sorin Cepoi- Twice Olympian Competitor Tom Brophy- Club Manager

Essential products and information for your brood.

Health............................................................................. 30 Insight and items for your family’s care.

Special Needs

In Season........................................................................ 34 Plan fall fun for all.

Summer CampP. 16

Sensory Processing 16 Y s IfDisorders..........

on the

Bonus

What’s Happening......................................................... 31

Cat c

Does your child have one?

For Ages 3.5 - 9 yrs.old Hours: Increase Fertility..................................................... 12 9am - 3pm Tips to help you thrive and improve your health. Choose your own days. Nutrition Q & A: Round 2........................................ 14

Health & Fitness Campus

A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, performances and events. Cover Credit: www.chasing-fireflies.com

Publisher Steve Elgort Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina

With Stacey Antine, Let M.S., R.D. Everybody Play

Managing Editor Donald McDermott

Where Summer Comes Alive!

Associate Editor Samantha Chan Editorial Intern Kristan Morley

Features RAin oR Shine

Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski

Homemade Halloween....... 10

P.For 10

Accounting Teresa Pinargote

Create characters and costumes.

information on this program call

Contributing Writers Stacey Antine, Julia Darrenkamp, Kim Guiley, K.T. Korngold, Kelsey Layer, Victoria Maizes, Phyllis Ohr, Teresa Tayler, Louise Weadock

Current Events......................... 18

914-528-5600

Talking to kids about today’s tough topics.

Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti

www.tomthumbpreschool.com

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

1949 east Main Street, (Route 6)

Time Management........................................................... 28 Mohegan Lake, nY 10547

PGTV Producer Beth Elgort

A layered approach.

nancy Brophy, owner/Director 29 Feeling Good, Looking Good........................................... Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous. I parentguide News I October 2013

parentguidenews.com

Letter from the Editor

by Rachel Kalina

Each year, October brings a As seasons transition and the year winds down, perhaps certain kind of excitement that you’re looking forward to new beginnings and to expand I find hard to contain. After all, your family. “Increase Fertility” by Victoria Maizes, there are pumpkins to be picked, M.D., offers expert insight and advice on fostering posicider drinks to be sipped, leaves to tive conditions for conception. Learn how environmental crunch, costumes to don, and best of all, tons of fall festivi- and other factors may affect your chances of getting ties to attend! The What’s Happening and Don’t Miss sec- pregnant and what you can do to put the odds in your tions in this issue ensure you’ll have a full calendar of local favor. events to check out. Snap some pics while your family is For parents with children who may be having trouout and about, and submit them to our “Fall into Autumn ble hitting developmental milestones, turn to “Sensory Photo Contest” at www.parentguidenews.com for a chance to Processing Disorders” by Louise Weadock, and learn about 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 212-447-7734 win great prizes. disruptions of the• Fax senses that could be at play. Weadock In between attending Halloween parties, you may find expands on the different types of sensory disorders and # you can help your child with them. yourself also having to: to plan a fete. Discover the latest and FAx how greatest in party entertainers, venues, and services in our And for bonus content like wonderful giveaways, be sure DAte: the PARENTGUIDE News Facebook page. jam-packed BirthdayFrom: Directory. PARENTGUIDE News iSSue to peruse wants to make your next celebration a smashing success! With “Birthday on a Budget” byPlease Kelseycall Layer, you’ll Have a and/or wonderful or fax yournotcomments oK.autumn, only be able to plan a memorable gathering, but you’ll also gain ideas on how to SigNAture pull it offoF responsibly. APProvAl:

ProoF

SK-October 2013 Learning the right answers will get your child through school. Learning how to learn will get your child through life!

Open HOuse Weekdays at 9:30am please call to join one of our tours.

Hudson Country Montessori School Inspiring curious, creative and gifted minds. Toddlers through 8th grade.

340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle, NY 10804 • 914-636-6202 • www.hudsoncountry.org • info@hudsoncountry.org your needs, your neighborhood

October 2013 I parentguide News I

Don’t

MISS

Heroes Galore

Young kids will love being Spiderman, Thor, Wolverine, Iron Man, The Hulk and many more in LEGO® Marvel™ Super Heroes. Created for the PlayStation 3, Wii U, Nintendo DS, and XBOX 360, the action-packed game brings together all of the most well-known heroes and villains from the Marvel Universe. LEGO® Marvel™ Super Heroes is available in stores and online now.

A Halloween Treat

Just in time for Halloween, The Weinstein Company keeps young audiences on the edge of their seats with The Trick or Treaters. The animated feature focuses on a group of bad guys whose outlook begins to change when they encounter an orphan girl. The Trick or Treaters opens nationwide on October 25.

Beach Bonanza

Two teen surfers are magically transported into an old-school 1960s beach flick in Teen Beach Movie. Audiences of all ages will love the music, dancing and nostalgia as Brady and Mack try to save the day and make their way back home. Including behind-the-scenes footage and bonus features, Disney Channel’s Teen Beach Movie is available now.

October

by Donald McDermott

Flying Free

Two turkeys from the opposite side of the tracks have to put aside their differences and team up to change the course of history in Free Birds (Relativity Media). The unique, animated buddy comedy follows the birds back in time as they try to get turkey off the holiday menu forever. Go along for the ride with Free Birds, in theaters beginning November 1.

It’s a Snap

Chicago-based software company TIP Solutions is proud to present CallSnap. The free, downloadable app provides users with a chance to communicate by responding instantly to an incoming call with a photo. The innovative app is available to download in the Google Play store. Visit www.callsnapapp.com for more information.

Painting a Picture

Meet 9-year-old Saige, a talented artist with a passion for horses, in An American Girl: Saige Paints the Sky (Universal Studios). Perfect for the brand-new school year, this modern-day story featuring the newest member of the American Girl family is all about facing your fears and finding your own voice. The live-action feature is available now on DVD.

Nightengale’s Tale

Musical Mischief

Game On

A Peak Performance

Things go wrong for young witch Cassie Nightengale’s family and friends just days before her birthday in The Good Witch’s Destiny. Now Cassie has to rely on her charm to destroy a curse and pull off the party she has always wanted. The Good Witch’s Destiny premieres on the Hallmark Channel on October 26. Check your local listings.

It’s that time of year again. Basketball season is in the air and NBA 2K14 is in stores. Raising the bar for sports fans and gamers everywhere, the brand-new release features state-of-the-art graphics, amazing features, and all of your favorite NBA stars. Score a slam dunk with your family by picking up your copy of NBA 2K14 today.

Kindie favorites Baze and His Silly Friends celebrate the school year with their third CD, The Best Day Ever! Joining Baze and His Silly Friends on the new release is an all-star kindie lineup, including Lucky Diaz, Kira Wiley, Dave Lambert, and many, many more. A portion of the band’s CD sales will go to help raise autism awareness. Order your copy today at www.mysillyfriends.com.

Director Nick Ryan takes viewers to the top of the most challenging peak in the world in The Summit (IFC Films). The amazing documentary explores the physical and emotional ascent of K2, as well as some of the successful and unsuccessful attempts to the top. The Summit opens in select theaters on October 4. Donald McDermott is the managing editor.

I parentguide News I October 2013 SK-Oct. ‘13

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October

Making Strides Against Cancer

Support Connection offers countless programs and support groups to those living with or affected by cancer. On October 6, the 19th Annual Support-A-Walk kicks off at 10am, with festivities beginning at 9am at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights. It is easy to join and a great way to get involved with an inspirational organization. Visit www.supportconnection.org, dial (914)962-6402, or e-mail walk2013@supportconnection.org for more information and to sign up.

Books Abounding

For the first time, the Robert Bell Middle School in Chappaqua hosts the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on October 5. From 10am to 4pm, young readers are invited to meet more than 70 renowned children’s book authors and illustrators who are on hand to answer questions, and sign books. The Great American Bake Sale simultaneously offers literary-theme desserts to support an end to childhood hunger. The school is located at 1 Senter St. in Chappaqua. Questions? Visit www.chappaquachildrensbookfestival.com.

by Samantha Chan

A Blazing Tradition

Families and groups have traveled far and wide to reach Van Cortlandt Manor for the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze. Beginning October 5 and continuing each weekend through November 11, with a special week-long showing October 2431, more than 5,000 individually carved jack o’lanterns will be on display across the 18th-century riverside landscape. Visit www.hudsonvalley.org for ticket information before heading to the manor at 525 S. Riverside Ave. in Croton-on-Hudson.

Everything Autumn

The annual Stone Barns Center’s Harvest Fest fundraiser returns for the tenth year on October 5. Kicking off at 10am, the family-friendly event boasts live music, hayrides, food, square dancing, farm Olympics, and more. The festivities continue until 3pm at the center, located at 630 Bedford Road in Pocantico Hills. Dial (914)366-6200 or visit www.stonebarnscenter.org for details and ticket information.

Finding a Better Place

Help raise funds and awareness for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention by participating in the Westchester County Out of the Darkness Community Walk on October 6. Thousands of walkers come together to help AFSP’s vital research and education programs to prevent suicide and save lives. Visit www.outofthedarkness.org to sign up. The walk takes place at Saxon Woods, 1800 Mamaroneck Ave. in White Plains. Check in is at 1pm.

MB 10/13

I parentguide News I October 2013

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to:

October Friends Forever

The Sesame Street characters are back together at the Westchester County Center, October 18-20, in Make a New Friend. When Grover’s friend Chamki visits from India, the gang explores the universally fun ideas of friendship and cultural similarities. Get ready to sing, dance, and even share cookies in this exciting production. A package is available that offers premium seating and pre-show photo opportunities. Get your tickets online at www.countycenter.biz and head to 198 Central Ave. in White Plains.

PROOF

No Tricks, All Treats

It’s time for the Muscoot Farm Boo Walk on October 27. The observation scavenger hunt takes place at the 51 Route 100 location in Katonah, encouraging children of all ages to wander the paths in the woods to find all 31 Halloween-themed items. Once the hunt is completed, all participants receive sweet Halloween treats. Additional details can be discovered at www.muscootfarm.org.

ProoF

419Flight Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, NewSpooky York, NY 10016 Fun • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • FaxTake 212-447-7734

Through Another’s Eyes

FAx # than ever, With technology bringing people close it’s important to raise children with global awareFrom: iSSue ness. Kicking off October 27, Eye To DAte: I... 3,000 Years of Portraits opens, representing a diverse array of cultures that span more than 3,000 years Please call or fax your comments and/or of history and art. The exhibit is on display at the Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay St., in Katonah SigNAture oF APProvAl: through February 16, 2014. Learn more about this and other exhibitions and programs at the museum at www.katonahmuseum.org.

Gather the family and head to Wave TO:W. 252nd St. in the Bronx, Hill, 675 to celebrate birds of prey on October FROM: A day-long event boasts 14, 9am-4pm. live raptor shows, bird walks, discovery tables, owl pellet dissections, and more. Please call or oK. The venue overlooks the Hudson River, providing a breathtaking backdrop for SIGNATURE APPROVAL: or bird watching. DialOF (718)549-3200 click on www.wavehill.org for more information.

MB 10/13 Over the Moon Music and More, LLC, Presents

in Briarcliff ✮ Chappaqua ✮ Dobbs Ferry Mount Kisco ✮ Scarsdale ✮ Tarrytown ✮ Tuckahoe for Children and the Adults Who Love Them

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The Emelin Theatre in Mamaroneck FAXPolie # Guacamole on Octostages Rolie ber 27 at 1:30pm to get audience members age ISSUE 2 andDATE: older into the spirit of Halloween. The musical performance is guaranteed to be high energy, filled with your comments and/or OK. funk, rock, and folk music with original tunes. The performance takes place at 153 Library Lane. Ticket information is available online at www.emelin.org.

Samantha Chan is the associate editor.

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914-251-5939 • Fax: 914-251-6533 christine.klint@purchase.edu

www.purchasecollegeathletics.com October 2013 I parentguide News I

By JulIa darrenkamp

t’s a customizable world these days, particularly when it comes to Halloween. While there are many options this season for readymade costumes, your kids can look just as spectacular with outfits right from their closets — and a little help from your local party store.

course! Then, get geeky with glasses that rock a white-tape stripe on the nose bridge, a bowtie, and a pocket protector — all of which should be in stock at a party store in your nabe.

Personalize your costume designs with store-bought accessories to complete your kids’ trick-or-treat looks. Here are what costume experts recommend.

Head down any number of aisles during October, and you’ll notice that accessories come in every color of the rainbow and many shades in between. Can’t decide on a color scheme for a costume? Good! Your kids will be on trend this holiday in their spectacular mish-mosh of hues. Let your children choose whatever basic color shirts and pants they want to display, and then play them up with accessories like a rainbow bow tie, colorful wig, and mismatched suspenders, or bold tutus, vibrant hair clips, and cozy-but-cute leg warmers.

BuzzIng BumBleBee

This classic concept is always sure to make a buzz during All Hallow’s Eve. Inspired by sugar and spice and everything nice, this costume can be thrown together with black leggings and a black shirt as a base. Build onto the theme by picking up a bee antennae headband, or creating one, and fairy wings at a nearby retailer. Finish off the garb with a black-and-yellow tutu and socks in the same color scheme.

geek ChIC

Let’s face it: It’s cool to be a nerd in this technology-driven world. Dress your child in one of this Halloween’s hottest outfits, and let him show off both brains and style. Start with a button-down shirt and pair it with khaki pants or jeans — fitted waist-high, of

Color CIty

With minimal planning, these outfits are sure to make your child’s spooky season an outstanding one.

tops kIds’ Costumes for 2013 1) Superheroes 2) Disney Princesses 3) Minnie Mouse 4) Hello Kitty

5) Monster High 6) Strawberry Shortcake 7) Despicable Me 8) Monsters University

Julia Darrenkamp is a Party City spokesperson. Party City is a leader in the party goods industry with more than 850 locations and 1000 costumes. It is one of America’s largest, specialty party goods chains and a premiere Halloween retailer. 10 I parentguide News I October 2013

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Are your friends astounded by your knowledge of the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s marketâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; the best schools, after-school programs and birthday places around?

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your needs, your neighborhood

October 2013 I parentguide News I 11

Increase

by Victoria Maizes, M.D.

Fertilit y Tips to help you thrive and improve your health.

With growing excitement, you and your partner decide the time is right to have a child. While pregnancy is a natural event, getting your health in order will increase the likelihood of conception and of giving birth to a healthy child. What follows is some of the most important advice that I give to my patients when preparing for pregnancy.

Eat a healthy diet. The Mediterranean diet has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s. It is also a diet that increases the likelihood of conception — both au natural and when using IVF. Mediterranean diets include abundant unrefined grains, legumes, fish, vegetables, and fruit. Olive oil is the principal oil in the diet, and meat is consumed sparingly if at all. Other specific dietary recommendations that have been shown to reduce infertility include eating more vegetable protein and less animal protein (substitute beans and nuts for meat or poultry), choosing whole fat rather than low or non-fat dairy products, and avoiding soda and simple carbohydrates. Fish is complex. While you will want to reduce exposure to mercury by avoiding shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish, you don’t want to avoid all fish, as it’s one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids in our diet. So enjoy your wild salmon, sardines, herring, and black cod.

Take a good multivitamin. The American academies of family medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, and pediatrics all recommend that women of childbearing age take a multivitamin. Prenatal multivitamins reduce the risk of neural tube, heart, and other birth defects. They make it easier to conceive and less likely to miscarry. And, three recent studies revealed an association between the use of folic acid prior to conception and a 40-percent lower risk of autism. Choose your multivitamin and supplements with care. They can vary tremendously. You will want it to contain: folic acid, 400-600 mcg; iron, 18 mg; and iodine, 150 mcg, among the various ingredients. I also recommend that most women take an omega-3 fatty acid supplement. These essential fats are scarce in the American diet. While omega-3 is abundant in some fish, many women avoid fish to reduce their exposure to mercury. Look for molecularly distilled fish oil with both DHA (for your baby’s developing brain, about 300-400 mg) and EPA (to prevent postpartum depression, about 500-600 mg) and take it with your largest meal of the day.

Reconsider your exercise routine. I encourage all my patients to be fit. So many of my women patients are surprised to hear that when attempting to conceive, I ask them to reduce their exercise! With the exception of overweight women, vigorous exercise reduces fertility. Consider your own exercise habits, and stop running and begin to walk; if you are a yogini, switch from Ashtanga or power yoga to a quieter, more restorative form. 12 I parentguide News I October 2013

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Reduce your environmental chemical exposures. There are more than 80,000 industrial chemicals in use in the United States. Many are endocrine disruptors, which means they alter the normal function of hormones. They are in plastics, canned foods, cleaning materials, bug spray, and even makeup. These environmental chemicals can increase the risk of ADHD, autism, diabetes, and heart disease. You can reduce your exposure to environmental toxins. I suggest that you begin with a self-assessment and consider the following questions. -Do you know which vegetables and fruits have the most pesticide contamination? -Do you avoid fish that contains high levels of mercury and PCBs? -Do you check the ingredients in your cosmetics, lotions, and shampoos for endocrine disruptors? -Do you use green cleaning products? -Do you use perfumes, scented candles, and/or air fresheners? -Do you spray the house for bugs, or have your lawn sprayed? Many resources are now available to guide you to safer choices. My favorite website is the one for Environmental Working Group (www.ewg.org), which addresses food, water, cosmetics, and cleaning products. When you avoid environmental chemicals, you can significantly reduce many of these toxins in your body. Studies show that in just three days, adults who avoided canned food and plastics lowered their levels of BPA (bisphenol A). Preparing for pregnancy by getting your own health in order is the finest gift you can give your child. May you be blessed with the joys of parenthood! Victoria Maizes, M.D., is the executive director of the University of Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine and a professor of medicine and public health. Her newest book is Be Fruitful: The Essential Guide to Maximizing Fertility and Giving Birth to a Healthy Child (Scribner). For more information about fertility, visit her website, www.victoriamaizesmd.com, or follow her on twitter @vmaizes.

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October 2013 I parentguide News I 13

Nutrition Q & A ROUND TWO

with Stacey Antine, M.S., R.D.

ou had even more questions about your family’s eating habits, and Registered Dietitian Stacey Antine is back to answer them in this delicious sequel to last month’s enlightening piece. Keep reading to ﬁnd out what kinds of soy foods are best and how to keep junk food at bay.

Q A

Is there a limit to the amount of soy foods, such as edamame and tofu, that my 1 year old should be eating?

Soy foods, such as edamame and tofu, are delicious, plant-based sources of protein that contain no cholesterol. They are loaded with healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamins and minerals. For healthy kids and adults, moderation is the best approach. Eat one serving a day (1 cup) and stick with edamame or other natural forms of soy, not highly processed soy food products. Also, since soybeans are high on the list of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) crops, look for non-GMO labels on frozen and fresh soy products in your supermarket.

Q A

My 2¼-year-old daughter has always been a good eater for the most part. Recently, she is refusing to eat foods she’s always loved. It seems that it’s just a control issue with her. What do you think? Many children begin to flex their independence through their food choices at age 2 or even younger. This is a great opportunity to empower your daughter to choose a variety of foods and help with the cooking process. She can help you mix, pour, and stir ingredients. In some cases and with supervision, she can use a plastic knife to help chop soft veggies, such as bell peppers, to develop gross motor skills, too! Lastly, make sure to eat with your daughter at the table so she can model your eating behavior.

Q A

What’s the most important nutrient for a growing 5 year old? Does it change as he gets older?

Growing children need nutrition from a variety of whole foods that provide energy, protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. The following are great options: a medley of fruits and vegetables, whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, popcorn that’s not from a microwavable bag), lean proteins (fish, chicken), healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nuts, and omega3 fatty acids from salmon, flax, and hemp), low-fat dairy for protein, as well as calcium and vitamin D (yogurt, milk, cheese, or dairy alternatives like soy, rice, almond, and coconut). Singling out nutrients is not a good practice, especially for children. It’s the combination of nutrients in their natural state that provides the body’s best nourishment.

14 I parentguide News I October 2013

parentguidenews.com SK-October 2013

Q A

If most of my child’s diet is well rounded, does it matter that he has a rewarding dessert here and there? After all, he’s a kid!

I’m all about dessert, especially homemade sweets, but not with the word “reward” attached to it. Rewards for good behavior, school grades, etc., should not be linked to food, but rather to a new book or privilege at home (extra playtime). After dinner, a square of dark chocolate with fresh fruit or berries gets my stamp of approval!

Q A

While I make my 7 year old’s packed meal for school, how do I know she’s not eating other kids’ junk foods during lunch hour?

The best way to find out if food items are being traded is to ask your daughter. Having an honest dialogue with kids is a lot easier than you think. Also, don’t emphasis healthy or junk foods because then kids want the forbidden stuff that satisfies their salt cravings or sweet tooth. Rather, talk about natural foods that come from the farm (or garden) and the artificial foods that are made in factories. Read the ingredients on snack labels, determining if they contain beneficial ingredients. If your child likes the artificial stuff, spy for healthier alternatives.

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For more questions and answers, visit www.parentguidenews.com/Articles/NutritionQA. Stacey Antine, M.S. R.D., is the author of Appetite for Life (HarperOne), founder of the popular HealthBarn USA, and co-host of the Family Food Expert Internet Radio Show. She has been recognized among the top 10 dietitians nationally by Today’s Dietitian magazine for her work with HealthBarn USA. Learn more about Antine’s ventures at www.healthbarnusa.com and www.staceyantine.com.

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October 2013 I parentguide News I 15

5/30/13 5:21 PM

Sensory Processing Disorders

Asensoryprocessingdisorderisaconnectivitymalfunctionofthe neural pathways in the body. When this happens, stimuli can’t predictably flow to the brain where information is coded and stored, information is not consistently received by the senses, and a child can’t learn how to appropriately recognize the data and react accordingly. When the child needs to use information to respond, he can’t retrieve it because it wasn’t adequately sorted, properly identified, or stored.

Does your child have one? by Louise Weadock

Is there anything you can do to help if your child has a sensory processing disorder? Yes. Vast improvements have been observed in children who had been diagnosed with sensory processing disorders. We’ve seen firsthand how sensory stimulation can make a difference. When I say, “senses,” I am referring to centers within our body that uniquely register information about our world in the brain. This includes our nose for smelling, ears for hearing, mouth for tasting, skin for touching, eyes for seeing, and our radar, which determines our sense of self in space. Children learn using all of their senses to respond to what they see, smell, hear, touch, and feel. They use observation, experimentation, and problem solving — sensory play — to lay the groundwork for life in the classroom and the world at large. Counting, sequencing, sorting, constructing, and scientific thinking are all the result of sensory play experiences.

Sensory processing: A disorder or a disability? For every type of sense, there are “hypersensitivities” and “hyposensitivities.” Hypersensitive children can’t filter out information and become overwhelmed with too much information. Hyposensitive children are defensively hard-wired to block out stimuli and can be unresponsive when asked to retrieve information in order to act. If a child’s processing ability can’t be amped up or calmed down, he is said to have a “challenge” to overcome, or a special need on which to focus. Depending on the complexity of the neural pathway disruption, the child may demonstrate learning or behavioral disorders such as dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, OCD, PDD, or autistic behaviors.

How can a parent help? The following tips offer ways to exercise various senses. Challenge to sight: The child can’t see objects in

the way or patterns of words on a page, can’t judge objects in motion, or has no depth or peripheral perception. There can also be degrees of blindness, peripheral obstruction, and inaccurate light refraction.

Sensory exercises: Expose the child to LED

lighting. Engage in activities with light and sound combinations such as light patterns with music and water, as well as activities aiming to develop eye-hand coordination.

Challenge to hearing: The child can’t hear surrounding motions but can feel surrounding sounds; is super sensitive to loud, buzzing, pitchy, or sudden noise; perceives sounds differently than others do and is often misunderstood. The child may require a different language, like sign or Braille, to communicate.

Sensory exercises: Use an intensive auditory

earphone system with classical music at night. Try having the child play drums, sing karaoke, or practice wildwood instruments.

Challenge to sense of self in space: The child bumps into objects, trips, falls, and has difficulty with balance tasks like bike riding. He’s not generally a good athlete. He often misses his mouth when eating or drinking and has problems with logic and decoding puzzles.

Sensory exercises: Joint movement, sports, and exercise, like jumping, running, hopping, etc., may boost academics. 16 I parentguide News I October 2013

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Challenge to taste: The child may be

Challenge to smell: The child is easily

Sensory exercises: Accompany food

Sensory exercises: Aromatherapy or oxygen bar

deemed a “picky eater;” have issues with food consistency, color, or look; be adamant that “other foods can’t be touching;” and experience lactose allergies, or obesity from self-soothing. with a favorite song or activity. Let the child make his own meals and encourage weightcontrol challenges. Avoid unhealthy snacks.

Proof

distracted by different smells, sometimes finding them intolerable and forcing him to leave an area. The child may perceive an item to have a putrid smell that is unlike the real smell detected by others. scents entice the child to hyper-stimulate his nose so he learns how to sort information. Cooking activities can stimulate memories of mom in the kitchen. Smells are “historical memory pegs” that enhance our ability to retain and recall information.

Challenge to touch: The child’s skin may be super-sensitive (ouch!) or hyposensitive (can’t feel a thing).

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Some children can’t tolerate certain textures or people touching them. The hypersensitive child is cautious, delicate, and fearful. He doesn’t mingle in a group. Hyposensitive children may not realize they’re in danger because they don’t feel.

Sensory exercises: The hyposensitive child craves stimulation. He probably enjoys a good back scratch, a tight

hug, or a scalp massage. Any sticky-touchy-prickly-vibrating sensations on his skin are more than welcome. Hypersensitive children do well with squeeze machines, cocoon swings, bubble baths, warm water, and creams.

Louise Weadock is a Registered Child Psychiatric Nurse; 30-year ASD/SID researcher; and the founder of 16,000-square-foot family gym, WeeZee… World of “Yes I Can!” at 480 Bedford Road, Chappaqua, NY. Weadock recently launched an autism/sensory learning research nonprofit, Sensory Bullets, for the purposes of researching the equipment featured at WeeZee gym. Learn more at www.weezeeworld.com.

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October 2013 I parentguide News I 17

by Dr. Phyllis Ohr With news stories so accessible on TV, cell phones, tablets, and other media, children are frequently informed on all sorts of topics, sometimes without parental discretion. While children may learn about compassion and forgiveness from uplifting news stories, researchers, such as Dr. Barbara J. Wilson, have shown that negative news stories may contribute to children’s emotional upsets. Parents are powerful guides who can help children gain socially and emotionally from the positive aspects of the news and can also model emotion regulation when their child is faced with its more negative aspects. Here’s how you can talk with children about news events.

Tip 1: Let your child know you are always available to talk

about what is going on in the news. In fact, you and your child can set up a daily ritual of discussing the news, whether it’s good or bad. Doing this while sitting down with a cup of hot chocolate (or any “feel good” snack) is a wonderful way to introduce a positive parent-child interaction each day. Parents can begin a dialogue with a brief synopsis 18 I parentguide News I October 2013 IR_Oct

of current events. They can then ask their child if there is something he wants to know more about or have explained. If so, stick to pointedly answering follow-up questions or clarifying. Adding on or digressing may confuse your child.

Tip 2: Use news events to teach children about their positive and negative emotions. However children are affected by a news event, validate their emotional experience without minimizing or judging it. Much of the time, children can recognize that they are upset, but they can’t label their emotions. Asking them to identify how they feel may be more frustrating to them than helpful. Try not to guess or assume how your child is feeling. You can point out to your child that he looks or sounds upset, but telling him how he feels is invalidating.

Tip 3: Be a positive coping model for your child. You can

disclose to your child how you may feel after hearing about a news item, but tell him that not everybody feels the same way about such topics. Sharing how the news affects you and labeling your feelings is a great way to teach your children how to label their own emotions. As children get older, they often gain the insight to recognize their own emotional state. If your child tells you exactly how he’s feeling, one way you can show him you understand is to restate what he said.

Tip 4: Monitor your child’s emotional reactions to the news. According to Dr. Wilson, children will react with fear and anxiety when the news is particularly threatening. If parents recognize mild levels of distress, they can demonstrate calm breathing or relaxation techniques. With younger children, for example, parents can practice calm breathing by blowing bubbles with them. When they hear upsetting news, children may initially feel helpless. Having them run for a cause or help clean up a neighborhood can teach your children to be resilient. Look for verbal and nonverbal cues that may signal extreme reactions, such as a child refusing to participate in family or social events or not wanting to sleep alone. If these behaviors occur, it may be wise to put a limit on the amount of exposure to the news where possible. If you are concerned with your child’s emotional state after a news event, you can find something to do with your child that is distracting, such as taking a walk, drawing, singing and dancing, even watching a funny video. When an upsetting event doesn’t personally affect the child, you can reassure him that everything is okay with his loved ones and that nothing has changed for him. Any parent who is concerned about their child’s reactions should consult with a mental health practitioner.

Dr. Phyllis Ohr holds a doctorate in clinical psychology and is the Assistant Clinical Director of the Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY. She is the director of the Hofstra Child and Parent Psychological Services Clinic, specializing in parent-child interaction therapy. Dr. Ohr is also a consultant at News-O-Matic. parentguidenews.com

Submit photos of your children romping in a pile of leaves, bobbing for apples, dressing up for Halloween, picking pumpkins, building a scarecrow, or enjoying other fall-related fare by November 1 for a chance to win a Chicco Liteway Plus stroller and a matching KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat! Share it all with us at www.parentguidenews.com. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll post select entries online for viewer voting until the end of November. Encourage friends and relatives to vote once a day, too.

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October 2013 I parentguide News I 1

 

by Kelsey Layer

on a

A great bash doesn’t have to break the bank.

Celebrating a child’s birthday is undoubtedly a reason for celebration, but marking that milestone can quickly add up in cost if you aren’t mindful. However, with a little creativity and imagination, you can prepare an affordable, convenient, and fun party for kids of all ages. Read on for expert party planning tips and ideas for the budget-conscious planner. First, think about what type of event you’re looking to plan. Determine whether you want guests to enjoy a casual or formal event, as well as whether you want the event to be focused solely on the children or have an opportunity for parents to join in the fun, too. Next, think about your theme, which will set the tone for your event. Consider a theme like clowns, trains, animals, princesses, or

20 I parentguide News I October 2013

pirates that will help you stay within budget for your party while getting all the necessities you want. A basic theme can also be enhanced with a little imagination. For example, a princess theme offers the opportunity to host a fun tea party, and an animal theme can easily be turned into a jungle adventure. After choosing a theme, it’s time to consider location, location, location! If you plan to hold the event at your house, you’ll have the opportunity to creatively decorate to your liking. Consider the number of invited guests to determine whether this option is a possibility. Cook or secure catered food to match the theme. And, if the weather is nice, consider a camping party in your backyard. Set up tents, build a campfire, and make S’mores and priceless memories — all at a low financial impact! If you prefer not to hold the party at your home, shop around for locations such as indoor swimming pools, gymnastics venues, inflatable parks, sports centers, bowling alleys, skating rinks, children’s salons, cooking or pottery places, etc., where you can rent an event room for a specific time and engage guests in planned activities. Rain or cold pending, scope out your area’s parks for a fun pavilion party, and have the kids play on the playground while you grill. Let your imagination wander. Celebrations can be held anywhere, anytime, on any budget with a little creativity. Decorations are a key part to making a celebration come alive. For simple decorations, try finding printable cards and cutouts you can use and prepare from your home computer. You can create a celebratory piñata out of colorful tissue paper and cardboard of any shape and size. Look online for do-it-yourself tutorials to create fun and affordable decorations. When it comes to the birthday cake, some parents only consider store-bought cakes from the local bakery or grocery store. To save money, bake a cake in your kitchen with icing, sprinkles, and other edible decorations that match your theme or color scheme. If you want a layered cake, simply make multiple small cakes and use icing to “glue” them together. You can layer with different icing flavors for a unique effect. Add streamers, figurines, or homemade cake toppers to your party pastry once complete. Making your own dessert means you’ll get the exact cake size you need and stay within budget. parentguidenews.com

Lastly, goodie bags can be expensive, but you can set whatever price limit for them you think is reasonable. Try going to your neighborhood dollar store to find colorful lunch bags in packs that match your decorations. Buy a bulk bag of candy and split it into each goodie bag along with stickers, cool erasers, or age-appropriate trinkets that go with your party theme. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to fill up your goodie bags with toys, consider baking your favorite cookies and putting about three in each bag, tied up with streamers and a bow to add decoration. Imagination and creativity are the key ingredients to help make any celebration inexpensive and affordable.

Proof

Kelsey Layer is a freelance writer and works for Dollar General. For inexpensive party decorations, gifts, baking materials, and cleaning supplies, visit a local Dollar General or www.dollargeneral.com to find all of your needs within budget. Additionally, take advantage of coupons and deals to help make your shopping experience more affordable.

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October 2013 I parentguide News I 21

LET’S CELEBRATE! Entertainers, Party Places and More...

Alcott Montessori School birthday party of your dreams! Choose from hip-hop, jazz, ballet, 27 Crane Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583 fun-n-fit, hip-hop princess, fairy tale ballet, hip-hop boys, DJ and 46 Fox Meadow Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583 more! The unique party syllabus is designed to cater to every age 535 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 group and can be customized. Voted Best of Westchester, members of (914)472-4404 the party staff at Central Park Dance have been regarded as one of the www.alcottschool.org finest in the area. In the state-of-the-art facility, guests are provided The Alcott School Crane Road gym is available for birthday parties with a fully decorated spacious studio, a delightful and comfortable for children from the age of 2 to 6 years. The gym and playground room to serve food and beverages, paper goods, custom invitations hold up toSouth, 25 preschoolers. The school provides• small chairs and419 Park andAvenue an experienced, attentive staff• 212-213-8840 that will make• Fax your212-447-7734 party truly South, New York, NY 10016 419 Park Avenue New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 Fax 212-447-7734 tables, while parents must provide their own refreshments, paper spectacular and memorable. Rentals are also available for parties, for goods, entertainment and decorations. An Alcott staff personTO: is in more information call or visit www.centralparkdance.com. Come and FAX # to: FAx # attendance during the party. The affordable party affords party-throwexperience the ultimate dance party. ers 1.5 hours of staff person supervision. For more details and an ISSUE DATE: From: iSSue application, call (914)472-4404 for the DAte: Scarsdale location. FROM: Funfuzion 19 LeCount Place, New Rochelle, NY 10801 Central Park Dance (914)637-7575 Please call or fax your comments and/or OK. Please callPark or fax comments and/or oK. 450 Central Ave.,your Scarsdale, NY 10583 info@funfuziononline.com (914)723-2940 www.funfuziononline.com SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: Funfuzion at New Roc City is Westchester’s Largest Indoor EnterSigNAture www.centralparkdance.com oF APProvAl: At Central Park Dance, every student is special. With more than 175 tainment Center and the only entertainment megaplex of its kind in weekly classes and 30 years of experience, Central Park Dance ofWestchester County that offers five distinctive entertainment venues fers Westchester’s highest quality programs at every level. Have the under one roof! It is open seven days a week including holidays, so

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Birthday DIRECTORY the fun is ongoing— rain or shine! Chooze or Fuze your funtastic experience from video games, lazer tag, rides, glow bowling, glow mini golf, billiards and indoor go-karting. Using the new FUZE cards, everything is made easy! FunFuzion has gone green— no more tickets, and nothing expires! Use your FUZE card for anything in the facility, including food and beverages in two delicious cafes! Funfuzion is the perfect location for an extraordinary event, featuring traditional meeting rooms for business, as well as sophisticated party spaces that can accommodate groups of all sizes! A variety of special offers and events are available, including our World’s Greatest Birthday Party and our new Teen Party, which features unique interactive entertainment experiences. Check out other fantastic offers such as Wacky Wednesday packages starting at 4pm every Wednesday, or the Unlimited Bowling Block on Mondays starting at 5pm. For more information, please call (914)637-7575 or visit the website.

and personalized, guaranteed to be 100 percent fun with zero clean up. Your choice of three packages from basic to blowout includes a dessert party, dinner party or a bring-your-own-food party, great for a lower budget alternative. Gymboree’s party times book up quickly so don’t hesitate to call early. Kristy, Gymboree’s party planner will make sure that you are well taken care of. Call her at (516)507-0329. At Gymboree, members receive a special discount, so if you are considering classes at Gymboree, enroll before the party starts!

Jodi’s Gym 25 Hubbels Drive, Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 (914)244-8811 244 E. 84th St., NYC 10028 (212)772-7633 www.jodisgym.com Looking for an action-packed, fun-filled birthday party your kids will flip Gymboree Play & Music Jodi’s Gym is the place. Kids 1-12 years run, jump, climb, swing 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 •over? 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 450 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale, NY 10583 and tumble to their heart’s delight on equipment designed especially for Route 6 and Hill Blvd., Yorktown, NY 10535 them. Their bright, colorful, safe and spacious facilities are truly a child’s TO: FAX # come true. Safety-certified instructors guide your child and friends (866)477-3700 dream scarsdaleny@gymboreeclasses.com on balance beams, bars, rings, ropes, slides, tunnels, the ever-popular www.gymboreeclasses.com parachute, FROM: ISSUE DATE: incredible space bouncer, Tumble Trak and much, much more! Smiles, giggles and belly laughs are the sounds of a Gymboree party! Top-notch, caring certified instructors attend to your child’s every need. That’s because Gymboree specializes in parties for 1-5 year olds and When your party is at Jodi’s, the whole place is yours. After an hour of fax your knows what makes them tick and whatPlease makes call themorhappy! Their comments gym time,and/or the groupOK. moves to a separate area to enjoy birthday cake and party room is filled with more than 40 pieces of brightly colored goodies that Jodi’s can supply. Their friendly staff will set up, serve and play equipment designed SIGNATURE to stimulate of climbing, jumping, clean up for you. Jodi’s Gym is happy to supply balloons, wonderful party OF lots APPROVAL: sliding, singing and fun. Children then move to another room for favors, your child’s favorite characters, musical entertainment, as well as refreshments and treats. Gymboree’s party experience is private many other fun party extras. You just sit back and enjoy the fun! Don’t

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October 2013 I parentguide News I 23

Birthday DIRECTORY forget to visit the store at Jodi’s to pick up a special birthday outfit or present from the great selection of gym wear for children. Now in their 31st year, Jodi’s Gym is undoubtedly one of the best-loved places in town— so book early! A birthday party at Jodi’s is a guaranteed success! Life the Place to Be 2 Lawrence St., Ardsley, NY 10502 (914)591-4400 www.lifetheplacetobe.com LIFE, The Place To Be is a modern industrial event space on the cutting edge of special event venues. As Westchester’s first alternative to traditional ballrooms and event spaces, LIFE features 25,000 square feet of flexible event space, offering all the conveniences and requisite technology of a full-service banquet facility. This innovative venue sets the tone for any contemporary celebration. LIFE provides modern amenities including wireless internet, permanently installed plasma and projection screens, LED lighting technology, a state-ofthe-art sound system. LIFE offers an abundance of fun for all ages; arcade games, AMF Mini-Bowling, Laser Tag and climbing wall are just a few of the numerous event activity possibilities. Whether you are planning a birthday party or a bar/bat mitzvah, LIFE is the perfect location for any celebration and offers a range of pricing and services for everyone. Make LIFE simple, let their staff do it all! 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 action-packed 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.

10/31/2013.

24 I parentguide News I October 2013

OnTrack Sports Center 29 South Depot Plaza, Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914)909-2974 marketing@ontracksport.com www.ontracksport.com OnTrack Sport Center is a 26,000-square-foot indoor sports facility located adjacent to the Tarrytown train station. The field house boasts two indoor turf fields for small-sided games or team training. Besides offering sports instruction, recreation and competitive programs for both youth and adults, OnTrack specializes in customized birthday parties. Younger children might prefer an unstructured Playzone party with air castles, tunnels, tent house, and balls; or add a party professional for parentguidenews.com

Birthday DIRECTORY added fun and games. Older children just like to play sportsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; with or without one of OnTrackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coordinatorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; just pick your favorites: Soccer, Kickball, Touch Football, Capture-the-Flag, Relay Races, then wrap it all up with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;parents vs kidsâ&#x20AC;? Dodgeball game or Tug-o-War. Find out why OnTrack was selected the Best Indoor Sport Center by Westchester Magazine (Best of Westchester 2009). No gimmicks, just the best stress-free parties around. OnTrack also offers batting cages, baseball training, group fitness and Zumba classes. For more information visit www.ontracksport.com or call (914)909-2974. The Play Group Theatre One North Broadway White Plains, NY 10601 (914)946-4433 www.playgroup.org There are two exciting ways to celebrate your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday at The Play Group Theatre. Celebrate in the Theatre: Bring your child and guests to a PGT MainStage show. Enjoy the magic of live theatre, at affordable birthday party prices! After the show, you can bring your party on a backstage tour where you will get a behindthe-scenes up-close peek at the stage, dressing rooms, sets, props and costumesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; and you might even meet the cast! Party packages now include a party room and quality cupcakes or cake. Celebrate in the Studio: Celebrate your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday with a theater games party in the Studio Theatre. Led by a PGT teaching artist, the children enjoy an hour of theatre games and fun. Party activities can include music, crafts, props, costumes and games that can be tailored to specific themes or ideas of the birthday child. Located in downtown White Plains, PGTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spacious new theatre complex is the perfect place to celebrate your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next birthday!

Westchesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Highest Quality Programs for Over)- 30 Years () () '.( () * " Offering '% ' #( %' %+ ' '( All Levels of Children & Adult Classes All Aspects of Dance and Fitness ' $ "" + "( % !#%./!- %) "0'' "*- '' ''!/ + *%)/! Book a party By

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' %' " (( ()' ) %$ Have the birthday party of your dreams! %.. '% 5. *0/%,0! ) -!(%.!. ChooseFOR fromYOUR hip-hop , CONVENIENCE jazz, ballet, fun-n-fit, OPEN LATE 7 DAYS A WEEK hip-hop Carryingprincess, an enormous collection of dancewear, bodywear, footwear and gymnastics attire; selected for fairy tale ballet, durability, comfort hip-hop style, boys, DJ and best of all affordability! and more! !)/- ' 1! 4 -. '!

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6 we Do birthDay Parties!

white Plains ymca 250 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains (914) 949-8030

community ymca of northern westchester (914) 276-2398

camP combe ymca 684 Peekskill Hollow Rd., Putnam Valley (845) 526-0808

www.ymca-cnw.org your needs, your neighborhood

October 2013 I parentguide News I 25

Birthday DIRECTORY

for all ages. Your party includes one hour of gymnastics fun and Sweet Teez party games with the coaches on the gym floor. Children under 157 Larchmont Ave., Larchmont, NY 10538 three may participate if an adult accompanies them. There is also (914)630-1744 a one hour party time held in our upstairs party room which overcandyshoppe@sweetteez.com looks the gym. Parents may bring food and/or drinks to serve to www.sweetteez.com the attending children. There is a minimum number of guests is Sweet Teez candy shoppe at 157 Larchmont Ave. opens to a 23-foot ten children for each party. For each additional child there is an electric blue and lime green counter which curves towards the back additional fee. Members of Dynamic Gymnastics or Tom Thumb of the store. At the entrance bubblegum balls explode into a Plexiglas Preschool receive special pricing. A deposit is required for all window. Hanging from the tin ceiling, are 24 rainbow light balls and parties, half of which is refundable if the party is canceled at least colorful lollipops and sweet confections decorate the walls. There are 48 hours ahead of scheduled time. You may schedule a party on more than 90 bulk candy dispensers featuring gummies, sours, sweets, Saturday at 4pm or 5:15pm, or on Sunday at 11am, 12:15, 1:30 and chocolate candies. Sweet Teez also offers a signature body lotion, or 2:45pm. For additional information or to reserve a party time lip gloss, perfume sugar shower scrubs, T-shirts, gift items, and candy419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 please call (914)528-KIDS(5437). For your convenience, postrelated novelties. The store carries gourmet products from around the card invitations are provided with room for your information and globe and plenty of nostalgic delights. The best is the ice cream that directions are printed to Dynamic Gymnastics. is homemade with fresh ingredients from a creamery in Milford,to: ConFAx # 419 Park AvenueFlavors South, New NY 10016Olivia, • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 necticut. likeYork, Outrageous Sweet Teez Too!, Pumpkin YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester Chip, and Salty Dog fill the freezer. Sweet Teez has become a party From: iSSue o: 250 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, NYDAte: 10605 playground for kids and adults. The FAx store#will close it doors for your pri(914)949-8030 vate event of 10 or more guests and create a magical sweet experience. www.ymca-cnw.org Sweet Teez provides all the elements a wonderful experience. ST rom: iSSueofDAte: PleaseYour callSpecial or faxDay! your Celebrate Arecomments you having aand/or birthday?oK. An ancan also bring the candy to you with a candy buffet. A variety of party niversary? A baby shower? Have your next party or function at favors and gift tins is readily available. Sweet Teez ships anywhere in Plains YMCA. Choose from several rooms and party thePlease United call Statesor and hasyour a whimsical selectionand/or of gift items. fax comments oK. SigNAturethe oF White APProvAl: packages. The YMCA’s team would love to help host your next special event. Specialty packages include activities such as arts & Tom Thumb igNAture 1949 oF APProvAl: crafts, sports & fitness, dance, gymnastics, and pool parties. MenEast Main St., Mohegan, NY 10547 tion “YMCA Party” to receive preferred pricing from Famous La (914)528-KIDS(5437) Famiglia Pizza and Buttercup Bakery. For more information, dial Dynamic Gymnastics, on the Tom Thumb Campus, offers an ex(914)949-8030 or e-mail wp_info@ymca-cnw.org cellent birthday party package that makes your child’s party fun

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a candy shoppe

We will help plan your parteez, working with your guest list and budget to design the perfect Sweet Teez Parteez!

We offer a variety of private parteez activities that include: • candy crafts • cupcake decorating • candy trivia • food and drink

Store available for all types of parties!

Birthday • Movie Night Traveling Candy Buffet Pajama Parteez Parents Night Unique Favors

Turn your parTy inTo fiesTa aT your neighborhood blue moon englewood bronxville old Tappan Woodcliff lake Wyckoff for party info

201-848-4088

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Larchmont: 914.630.1744 26 I parentguide News I October 2013

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Update Desserts Made Easy

Cake pops are fun and easy for every event. Heavenly Cake Pops now offers an Easy Roller for at-home bakers. This time-saving solution can roll up to 21 cake balls at one time. Instead of candy this Halloween, hand out homemade cake pops. The Heavenly Cake Pops Easy Roller will help for all functions, including parties, kids’ birthdays, fundraisers, and weddings. Purchase one today at www.heavenlycakepops.com.

New Lullaby Dolls

Kids Preferred is introducing two new lullabysinging plush dolls named Baby Abuelita Rosa and Baby Abuelito Pancho. Press the dolls hand to hear classic, and soothing Spanish lullabies that are perfect for bedtime. Both dolls are modeled to preserve Hispanic traditions by passing down beautiful words from

by Kristan Morley grandparents or parents to their children. they are expensive to replace. The Blade Buddy Visit www.babyabuelita.com for more information. offers a way to maintain the sharpness of your razor without buying a new one at the store. on The Today Show and Good Morning A Roadmap of Asperger’s Featured America, the Blade Buddy ensures long-lasting Asperger’s/ASD: Making Life blade life. Keep razor burn, ingrown hair, nicks, Easier, Safer, Better (A Parents and cuts away. For more information and to read Roadmap to Sanity) (Backyard reviews, visit www.getbladebuddy.com. Habitat Publishing) by Jenny Bastet Brown, Tony M. LeTheir Own Devices May, and Anna Marie Brown Leave your little ones to their own devices while is a ground-breaking narrative for parents who need help dealing with their you keep your phone comfortably in your own children’s Asperger syndrome. Learn all about pocket. The new PlayMG device is the first Withe disorder; how to identify it; the education Fi, app-playing device for the Android market. your child will need; how to secure a strong future The sturdy device features a 4-inch display, built-in Wi-Fi, the MG Family for your child; and how to live a less physically, Collaboration System, financially, and emotionally taxed life at home top EA Mobile games, a with your family. This book can be purchased at camera, a stereo headset www.amazon.com. jack, and more. Visit www.playmg.com to get your child his own Never a Dull Moment Android device. Shaving often hurts with dull razor blades, and Kristan Morley is the editorial intern.

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e are always searching for that one magical solution to manage our time and to help us feel like a good parent, spouse, employer, boss, or friend. We crave one way to perform better and be more efficient. However, it takes multiple, layered techniques to successfully manage time and integrate our work, family, and personal lives together. Think of the techniques like layers of clothing, and add or subtract as needed to help you personally and professionally thrive. Since we are never actually “off the clock,” time-management layers help guide the constant ticking toward greater success and enjoyment. Layers also provide choices; and more choices eliminate frustration and the potential for a “mommy meltdown.” The following five time-management tips will help mothers excel at home and at the office. They are written from my personal and professional experiences.

Layer #1: Set time limits.

Just how do you “make the time” to accomplish everything on your list that you set out to do? Since the list is only effective if the items on it can be realistically completed, assign a time limit for completing every item on your list. Be present in what you’re doing, finish it, and move on. I have my list of things to do, and I’ll assign time slots to it. If I have one hour to work on a presentation at work or one hour to clean at home, I do the best I can for that one hour.

Layer #2: Stay in the moment.

When you’re at work in a meeting, be there. When you’re at home, be there. If you’re in a business meeting, don’t wish to be somewhere else. Be present where you are, and don’t feel guilty about where you’re not.

Layer #3: Create one calendar.

I used to keep two different calendars, one for home and one for work; but I was missing work deadlines, my kids’ activities, and other events. So, I combined the calendars, which caused me to start talking about my family at work and integrating my two lives. It’s one life and one calendar! And, now, I don’t miss a thing.

Layer #4: Watch the clock.

It sounds simple, but an awareness of time gives you superpowers! Pay attention to how much time “until…” and how much time “since…” for every meeting, errand, chore, and task. Many of us use our phone as a clock these days, but a wristwatch helps you manage your time better.

Layer #5: Systemize childcare.

When we have childcare in place on certain days for certain hours, we can define that time for work and/or for ourselves. With numerous back-up and contingency plans, we can also secure and systemize the value of childcare and the predictability of planning for that time. Find your layers, and then integrate them. The right combination will help you manage your time while feeling successful at home, at work, and in life. Teresa Taylor is a nationally recognized, Fortune 200 executive who brings integrity, focus, vision, and agility to corporate leadership while advising companies, government agencies, and others on a successful business model. Her book, The Balance Myth: Rethinking Work-Life Success (Greenleaf Book Group Press), inspires women to succeed professionally and personally. Learn more at www.teresataylor.org. 28 I parentguide News I October 2013

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Like Us on Facebook to help comfort and support the changing Nail Art for Chances to WIN shape of a new mother. Purchase yours at Stay on trend with www.amedadirect.com. the joys of nail art byExclusive Prizes

by Kristan Morley car, or just walking. The bag has an internal frame, flat bottom, adjustable straps to wear as a backpack, and a variety of other ways to carry it. It has an insulated liner for any food that needs temperature control. It is eco-friendly, durable, lightweight, and can be folded up and stored in an easy fashion. Check it out at www.adkpackworks.com.

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customizing your own Summer Glow nail wraps with Jamberry As colder weather rolls in, Like Nails. Upload your own keep a perfect summer shade pictures or make your own with Pür Minerals designs at www.jamberrynails.com. Jamberry www.facebook.com/parentguidenews Glow All Year Kit. Nails have no harmful chemicals or odor. The kit comes with Perfect for everyday wear or special events, Pout Plumping Lip these nail wraps are applied at home and are Gloss in Oasis, Mineral Glow Deluxe Size A Great Night’s Sleep fuss-free. Visit the website to view more than Bronzer, and Roll-On Illuminator. Keep Expecting wom275 patterns already offered. your skin sun-kissed all year round and head e n l o o k i n g t o to www.purminerals.com to purchase your gain a full night New Mom Appeal Glow All Year Kit. www.facebook.com/parentguidenews of sleep, look no Ameda Intimates Apparel Line is introducing further than Desa new collection for nursing mothers. The tination Maternity’s Easy Carry Grocery Bag Ameda Nursing Bra and Nursing Camisole Boppy Total Body Pillow Carrying groceries from the supermarket to are made with a microfiber fabric free of harmful substances, which also helps prevent your home has never been easy, but now it from A Pea in the Pod. The pillow’s bacteria growth and odor. Breastfeeding on can be. The Grocer from ADK Packworks is contoured design helps support your belly, the go is a breeze with the one-hand release a revolutionized way to bring your groceries back, head, and neck. A sound sleep can be clasp. Both pieces have dual knit side panels home via public transportation, taxi, in your yours at www.destinationmaternity.com.

Kristan Morley is the editorial intern.

SK/MB 10/13

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October 2013 I parentguide News I 29

Health All-Natural Food Coloring

Artificial food coloring is known for being unhealthy for your children. Nature’s Flavors is now offering Natural Colors food coloring. Offered in a variety of hues, Natural Colors are kosher, vegan, gluten free, and free of artificial ingredients and additives. For perfect use in all of your cooking adventures, Natural Colors are made to keep your children healthy and happy. Visit www.naturalflavors.com for more information.

Oldie but a Goodie

CamelBak’s Eddy water bottle has undergone a cap redesign. For a faster flow and more durability, the Eddy bottle is still 100-percent BPA free. It comes equipped with a patented flip top to preventing spilling. The bottle is also dishwasher safe and comes in three different sizes with a loop handle for easy carriage and storage. Stay hydrated wherever you are and check out www.camelbak.com.

Family-Owned Farm

Devoted to health and wellness, Lundberg Family Farms offers a long list of rice products great for every brood. It offers more than 150, whole grain rice products, including organic and gluten-free varieties. Products range from rice, rice cakes, rice chips, risottos, rice couscous, and pasta to syrup and flour. Kosher and vegan options are available. Head to www.lundberg.com to search and purchase products.

Itches Be Gone

BeKoool Itch Relief Patch is designed to keep your children from scratching nasty insect bites or poison ivy itches. The patches are clear and relieve the itchiness your children may face. The protective barrier also helps fight what scratching leaves behind, including infection. Each patch is easy to apply and leaves no mess behind. Head to Walmart or Dollar General stores to pick up a pack today, or online at www.walgreens.com and www.drugstore.com.

Fit at Any Size

Yoga is great because there are so many ways to enjoy it at any ability level, size, age, and shape. Registered nurse and yoga instructor Ingrid Kollak has penned Yoga XXL (Demos Health), which explains how to enjoy the activity at any size. The modified postures and props ensure progression to increased flexibility, strength, stamina, balance, and energy. Find this title and others including Yoga and Scoliosis, Yoga and Fertility, and Yoga and Breast Cancer at www.demoshealth.com.

by Kristan Morley

Stay Cool

Who doesn’t love ice cream or a little bit of frozen sweetness? Yoyonas is a new kitchen gadget that uses a high-torque blade to emulsify frozen fruits into a sweet, healthy, creamy treat! It’s easy to use and easy to clean, making it a great addition to any kitchen. Your family will thank you for this treat machine. Visit www.yoyonas.com to learn more and order your own.

Easy Weight Management

With the school year underway, parents are running around between activities, performances, and everything else that occupies kids’ busy schedules. It’s easy to put their own needs on the back burner. Bulu Box makes weight management easier by delivering four or five dietary samples, including protein formulas, energy and cleansing supplements, vitamins, and more. The inexpensive service is available various subscription time frames. Visit www.bulubox.com to learn more.

Hoop, There It Is

Hooping has become popular in recent times, and it’s the perfect way to burn calories and stay fit. Check out Hoopersize from Kid Tribe, a fitness kit that includes a full size ProHoop, 12 instructional games, and a CD to help your clan burn up to 310 calories per 30-minute workout. Get spinning and order your fitness kit at www.kidtribe.com.

The More You Know

With child allergies seemingly on the rise, it’s important to know what allergies children have. Beware Bandits are an effective medical alert wristband for children that playfully announce health issues. Informative characters such as Billy the Bee, Poker Face Peanut, and Saloon Shelly are featured on the durable, adjustable bands, which are latex and nickel free. Find one for your child online at www.bewarebandits.com.

Growing Up

Pacifiers are great but can impact oral development in children. Introducing the Difrax 3-Stage Pacifiers for preemies and newborns all the way through children 18 months and older. The unique design is a result of years of research and development. It helps stimulate the development of the palate and muscles in the jaw and mouth. The third stage of the pacifier is even designed to help break your child of his pacifier habit. Visit www.difraxusa.com. Kristan Morley is the editorial intern.

30 I parentguide News I October 2013

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Nassau

SEPTEMBER 2010 October 2013

Manhattan Queens Westchester

Open Houses

PROOF

October 17: The Little Garden, 27 Radio Circle Drive, Mt. Kisco, (914)241-0445, www.littlegardenkids.com, 9am-noon and 4-6pm.

October 1 - 7

Agriculture, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills, (914)366-6200, www.stonebarnscenter.org. It’s the center’s 10th annual celebration and fundraiser that includes live music, hayrides, farm Olympics, food-crafting stations, farming demonstrations, and square dancing. Incredible food purveyors are on hand for the Farmers Market. 10am-3pm.

PROOF

October 6: Global Harmonies, Hoff-Barthelson Music School, 25 School Lane, Scarsdale, www.hbms.org. This second annual Global Harmonies concert series, Music from Around the World, celebrates diversity and the power that music has to inspire global understanding. During the course of this new series of annual concerts, every country and culture will be represented, creating a colorful mosaic of sound that touches the human spirit and unifies our journey on this planet. 2pm.

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

October 5: Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival, Robert Bell Middle School, 1 Senter St., Chappaqua, www.chappaquachildrensbookfestival.com. More than 70 renowned children’s book authors and illustrators are on hand, for families to interact with and have books signed, participate in arts and crafts activities, and enjoy food from a local caterer. The Great American Bake Sale, which supports an end to childhood hunger, offers literary-themed desserts for sale, including Pinkalicious cupcakes. 10am-4pm.

SEPTEMBER 2010

October 5: Harvest Festival, Stone Barns Center for Food and

October 6: Wine, Music and Puppies - A Wine Tasting Benefit, Guiding Eyes for the Blind, 611 Granite Springs Road, (914)2432238, www.guidingeyes.org. Join renowned Sommelier Amy Dixon and musician Blessing Offor, both Guiding Eyes for the Blind graduates, for a unique music concert and paired wine tasting experience. Tickets include a sparkling wine reception and tour of the

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what s happening

Calling All February 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 February. 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. your needs, your neighborhood

October 2013 I parentguide News I 31

OCTOBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2010 Guiding Eyes facility. Reservations required. 3-6pm.

River Cruise, West Street, Cold Spring, www.sawmillriveraudubon.org/cruise. Come along aboard the “River Rose,” and enjoy appetizers provided by Audubon members and a cash bar, great company, the fall foliage, and a fascinating river narration from Tom Lake of the NYDEC Hudson River Estuary Program. Space is limited. $50/person. Visit the website to reserve your spot or for more information. 2-5pm.

October 15 - 21

, PROOF ProoF what s happening

October 8 - 14

October 18 and 19: Rodgers &…, Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck, (914)698-0098, www.emelin.org. This evening October 8: Reduce, Refuse, and Recycle Plastic, Mamaroneck provides a unique look at the life and astonishingly prolific career Library, 136 Prospect Ave., (914)630-5875, www.mamaroneckliof, arguably, the most celebrated and successful theatrical composer brary.org. A special presentation from Nancy Silberkleit, Co-CEO in Avenue the history American music,• Richard Rodgers. Richard of Archie Comics discusses the importance of this global environ-419 Park South,ofNew York, NY 10016 212-213-8840 • FaxWith 212-447-7734 Rodgers’ last collaborator Martin Charnin acting as host and narramental message Drastic with Plastic from Riverdale High. All ages tor, spend a luscious evening with four Broadway luminaries who are welcome. Registration is required. 4pm. to: FAx # from South Pacific to The will perform unforgettable Rodgers songs King And I and Oklahoma to The Sound of Music. 8pm. October 11: French Horn Artist Recital, Greenville Community From: iSSue DAte: Church, 270 Ardsley Road, Scarsdale, presented The Hoff-BarthOctober 19 and 20: National TriMathlon, Mathnasium of elson Music School, www.hbms.org. French hornist Karen FroeScarsdale, 747 White Plains Rd., Scarsdale, (914)725-6284, hlich performs as part of the 2013-2014 HB Artist Series. She is Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. scarsdale@mathnasium.com, mathnasium.com/scarsdale. The joined by fellow HB Artists Donna Elaine flute; Alan Hollander, Third Annual National TriMathlon is always a fun and festive oboe; Dorothy Duncan, clarinet; and guest artist James Jeter, basdesigned to generate excitement about math by testing soon. French horn and woodwind quintet recitals always present SigNAture event, oF APProvAl: mathematical thinking skills. Kids in grades 2-5, with all levels an opportunity for unusual programming. 8pm. of math skills are welcome. This exciting event includes great participant gifts, with local and national winners, and more. October 14: Saw Mill River Audubon 60th Anniversary, Hudson

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32 I parentguide News I October 2013

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October 22 - 28 October 23: An Intimate Evening with Ambassador Yehuda Avner, Glen Arbor Golf Club, 234 Bedford Center Road, Bedford Hills, (914)666-6065, www.chabadbedford.com. As a former Israeli diplomat, prime ministerial advisor and acclaimed author, Ambassador Avner also served as a speech writer and secretary to Israeli Prime Ministers Levi Eshkol, Golda Meir, Yitzhak Rabin, Menachem Begin and Shimon Peres. The event is open to the entire community. For more information or to reserve tickets, call. 7:30pm. October 27: Rolie Polie Guacamole, Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck, (914)698-0098, www.emelin.org. Get into the Halloween spirit with Rolie Polie Guacamole. Dress up in costume and dance, sing, and laugh with this rocking â&#x20AC;&#x153;kindieâ&#x20AC;? band from Brooklyn who have high energy, interactive shows that mix funk, rock, and folk music. Appropriate for ages 2 and older. 1:30pm.

Library, 100 Martine Ave., White Plains, (914)422-1476, www. whiteplainslibrary.org. Following ancient Day of the Dead traditions, children in grades 2-6, and their families, make an altar to honor the lives of beloved deceased family members. Pre-registration required. 4:30-5:30pm. October 30: Spooky Tales, Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Road, Katonah, (914)232-1252, www. caramoor.org. Spooky and ghostly Halloween tales, but not too scary, for kids ages 2-8, told by Lorraine Hartin-Gelardi, master storyteller. At the end of the performance, a special brew (cider) will be served in the Summer Dining Room, along with terrifying cookies. Costumes are encouraged, and prizes will be given to the winners. 3:30pm.

SEPTEMBER 2010

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Opening October 27: Eye To I ... 3,000 Years of Portraits, Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay St., Katonah, (914)232-9555, www.katonahmuseum.org/exhibitions/upcoming/. This exhibition represents diverse cultures and span more than 3,000 years of history and art. Through February 16, 2014. Times Vary.

October 29 - 31 October 29: Day of the Dead Workshop, White Plains Public

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October 2013 I parentguide News I 33

Season

Tricks and Treats Plan fall fun for all.

by Kristan Morley

National Carve A Pumpkin Day

October 31 isn’t only meant for trick-or-treating, it is also National Carve A Pumpkin Day. Take time to carve a pumpkin and get the full Halloween experience. Add National Carve a Pumpkin Day to your list of family traditions this year.

D.I.Y. Dragon

Candy Alternatives

Handing out candy on Halloween is tradition, but it isn’t very healthy. Packets of goldfish crackers, small boxes of raisins, and natural fruit snacks are all healthy alternatives to candy and loved by most children. Buying these products in bulk makes them even more affordable and appealing. This year, provide a healthy change in your community.

Trick-or-Treat Dinner

Looking for a fun Halloween dinner that will make the whole family smile? Breadstick Mummy Dogs offer a sure way to get your kids excited for trick-or-treating. Visit www.picky-palate.com for more fun Halloween recipes. What you’ll need: •1 package Pillsbury Breadstick dough •12 hot dogs •ketchup and/or mustard How to make it: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Unroll the dough, and cut each section into three strips. Wrap each hot dog with the three strips, one at a time, starting at the top of the hot dog. Leave a small space at the top of the hot dog for the “eyes.” After all of the hot dogs are wrapped like mummies, place them onto a greased baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool for five minutes, then use two small dots of ketchup and mustard for eyes.

World Teacher’s Day

Celebrate your child’s teacher on October 5 for World Teacher’s Day. This is a day dedicated to those women and men who help develop the minds of children. Send your son or daughter to school with a nice note or small, homemade gift. For more information, head to www. worldteachersday.org. 34 I parentguide News I October 2013

IR_Oct

Create a Fire-Breathing Dragon costume for this season’s festivities. For a tutorial with images, check out www.spoonful.com. Materials: •Pencil •Scissors •Several large sheets of corrugated cardboard •Acrylic paints and paintbrushes •Clear packing tape •Masking tape •Several sheets of colored cellophane •Small flashlight •Bubble wrap •Ribbon •Child’s belt •Green clothing How to make it: From the cardboard, draw and cut out two, 26-by-20-inch pieces for the profile of a dragon’s head. Cut four rows of teeth measuring 11 inches by 2 inches. Cut two strips to connect the two sides of the head. These are placed at the chin and along the length of the top of the head. Cut a strip measuring 30 inches for the tail. Cut four, 4-inch spikes to attach to the top of the tail. Cut one, 13-inch triangle for the tip of the tail. Once all of your cardboard is cut, paint both sides of the teeth strips white. Attach the teeth inside the upper and lower dragon jaws with clear packing tape. Assemble the head by using masking tape to secure the head and chin strips in place between the head pieces. Make sure your child’s head can fit inside this space. Paint the dragon’s head, and the tail pieces with a base coat of green. Paint both sides of the tail spikes. Allow all the pieces to dry, then paint on eyes, nostrils, and scales. Add a fire-breathing effect by wrapping the cellophane around the end of the flashlight and securing it with clear packing tape. Tape the flashlight onto the lower jaw of the head. Use two pieces of 2-by-3-foot bubble wrap to create wings and attach them with the ribbon. Attach the tail spikes to the tail strip. Use clear packing tape to attach the larger triangle to the end of the tail. Have your child dress in green. Finally, set the dragon head on his shoulders and turn on the flashlight.

National Fire Prevention Week

Join forces with your local fire department to educate your children about fires during National Fire Prevention Week, October 6-12. Every year, the National Fire Protection Association focuses on a new topic, and this year it is “Prevent Kitchen Fires.” Help teach important lessons about kitchen fires and how to put them out. More information about getting involved with National Fire Prevention Week may be found at www.nfpa.org. Kristan Morley is the editorial intern.