OCTOBER 2014
Westchester
Party if You Want to with our Birthday Directory
Homework
How to get focused
Special Needs
CUTE DIY COSTUMES
IEP Meetings & Lawyers
Health Section
Childhood Obesity www.parentguidenews.com Over 1,000 Exciting Family Events K
contents contents
table of
Belle table of School of Music
FREE & First Lesson n io at lt su n o C
October 2014 Volume 31 • Number 10
Birthday Coverage
October 2014 Volume 31 • Number 10 SPECIALIZING IN PIANO, KEYBOARD & VOICE Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 29
Contests
P. 20
Slumber Party Success...... 20 Host an unforgettable birthday sleepover.
“Where Learning Is Fun!”
PROOF
Ages 2-4 with parent participation. Plant the seed of music in your child!
MuSIC LAND Columns www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Ages 4-5 with parent participation.
Birthday Directory................ 22
A delightful experience for Mozarts of the future. Don’t Miss........................................................................ 8
Party places and entertainers for the happiest of occasions.
MuSIC fOR LIttLE PEOPLE This entertainment and activities Ages month’s 5-7 with parent participation. Unique
Russian-Japanese method. Experience the Magic of Music.
Travel............................................................................. 27 ADVENtuRES IN KEYBOARD P. 18
Destinations, product and Instruction getaway tips. Ages 8-12. Tradition on a newpicks, note. Piano
Special Needs
for the child of the new millennium.
Health............................................................................ 28 Bring out the musical Insight and items for your family’stalent care. in your child!
914-961-5511 Update.......................................................................... 34
www.belleschool.com Essential products and information for your brood. White Plains: Scarsdale: Yonkers: 1088 Central Park Ave. 283 Tarrytown Road 1537 Central Park Ave.
The IEP Meeting.......... 16 Should you bring a lawyer?
Honesty and LDs......... 18
Bonus Calendar of Events....................................................... 32 this Lclasses, A comprehensive listing offyour and k orneighborhood’s ogevents, performances.oo o L
Why it’s important to speak openly about learning disabilities.
Health & Fitness
Cover Credit: Sara
Publisher Steve Elgort
Childhood Obesity.......... 12
Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina
Prevention and treatment options.
Th Associate Editor Samantha Chan ! e roMargaret Art Directors Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli u WebhDevelopment ss u Director of g e IJankowski out thKristen Managing Editor Donald McDermott
P. 12 P. 10
Features
Homework Help............ 10
Accounting Teresa Pinargote
Tips to improve focus.
ThisWriters is your opportunity to Harris, Contributing Dr. Jane Frederick, Felicia Dr. Keith Kantor, Dr.very Stephanie Kirschbaum, Abby Larson, win some exciting products Ellyn Levy, Louise Weadock and/or services featured in this issue’s Advertising Managers Deirdre Karen Gibofsky, Update, Travel, andAntoniello, Health columns.
Costume Craft................ 14 Create a couple of easy but inspired Halloween outfits.
Bill Scalzitti
Woman oman mom
Advertising Sales Representatives Log onto www.parentguidenews.com, Julie Leonoff, Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, find the “Win This Product” our Jennifer Serpi, Amy Smith, Rena Spangler,logo Feliciaon Stafford, homepage, follow someBeth simple PGTV Producer Elgortdirections, Submission of articles, photographs and artwork is welcome. All material must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. and good luck. PARENTGUIDE News assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage of submitted material. PARENTGUIDE
Protect Your Peepers............................................................... 30 Eye care tips for every age.
Feeling Good, Looking Good................................................ 31
News reserves the unrestricted right to edit or otherwise alter submitted material for publication. PARENTGUIDE News, ISSN08961468, is published monthly by PG Media Network Corp., 101 E. Park Ave., #358, Long Beach, NY 11561; 212-213-8840. Copyright 2013 PGMNC. All rights reserved.
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contents contents
table of
table of
Reach Thousands Birthday of Your Coverage Best Prospects for About $2 Per Day October 2014 Volume 31 • Number 10
October 2014 Volume 31 • Number 10
Contests
P. 20
Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 29
Slumber Party Success...... 20 Host an unforgettable birthday sleepover.
Columns
Birthday Directory................ 22
Don’t Miss........................................................................ 8
Party places and entertainers for the happiest of occasions.
This month’s entertainment and activities
Travel............................................................................. 27 Destinations, product picks, and getaway tips.
Special Needs
Health............................................................................ 28
P. 18 Now, www.parentguidenews.com makes it easy and affordable to place The IEP Meeting.......... ADVERTISING DIRECTLY ONLINE. 16
Insight and items for your family’s care.
Update.......................................................................... 34 Essential products and information for your brood.
Should you bring a lawyer?
Honesty and LDs......... 18
Bonus
Just click on the “advertising information” link Why it’s important to speak openly about learning disabilities. at the top of the www.parentguidenews.com home page and follow the simple steps to take your business to a totally new place.
Calendar of Events....................................................... 32 A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, events, and performances.
Health & Fitness
Cover Credit: Sara Publisher Steve Elgort
Childhood Obesity.......... 12
Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina
Prevention and treatment options.
Please note that you can always receive personal assistance by P. 12 calling the Advertising Direct Helpline at (212) 213-8840, ext. 224 P. 10 or e-mailing us at Help............ 10 Homework Tips to improve focus. advertisingdirect@parentguidenews.com.
Managing Editor Donald McDermott Associate Editor Samantha Chan
Features
Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski Accounting Teresa Pinargote Contributing Writers Dr. Jane Frederick, Felicia Harris, Dr. Keith Kantor, Dr. Stephanie Kirschbaum, Abby Larson, Ellyn Levy, Louise Weadock
Costume Craft................ 14 Create a couple of easy but inspired Halloween outfits.
Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti
Woman oman mom
Advertising Sales Representatives Julie Leonoff, Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, Jennifer Serpi, Amy Smith, Rena Spangler, Felicia Stafford,
Protect Your Peepers............................................................... 30
PGTV Producer Beth Elgort
Eye care tips for every age.
Submission of articles, photographs and artwork is welcome. All material must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. PARENTGUIDE News assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage of submitted material. PARENTGUIDE News reserves the unrestricted right to edit or otherwise alter submitted material for publication. PARENTGUIDE News, ISSN08961468, is published monthly by PG Media Network Corp., 101 E. Park Ave., #358, Long Beach, NY 11561; 212-213-8840. Copyright 2013 PGMNC. All rights reserved.
Feeling Good, Looking Good................................................ 31 Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous. I parentguide News I October 2014
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October 2014 I parentguide News I
Letter from the Editor Oh, how I adore October! Leaves take on a new, vibrant spectrum of color, creating a splendid autumnal backdrop. There are all sorts of fall fairs and festivals (found in our print and Web calendars) filled with cider, pumpkin picking, and hayrides. The best part, though? Halloween and the opportunities it presents to make crafts, decorations, and costumes! I’ve enjoyed the spooky celebration for as long as I can remember. My husband and I often host parties where dress up is mandatory (yes, I’m that person), and it’s such great fun. To help your family get into the spirit of the season, we’re excited to share “Costume Craft” by wedding and lifestyle blogger, as well as D.I.Y. expert, Abby Larson. Larson’s thousands of followers regularly check her Style Me Pretty blogs for inspired living tips, and this month, she instructs PARENTGUIDE News readers how to create two easy but adorable outfits for little ones. And there’s even more reason to get into fiesta preparation this month with our Birthday Directory. In it, you’ll find tons of party venues, entertainers, and services to make your child’s day a special one. Perhaps, you’d rather host a
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U
by Rachel Kalina
special birthday night? Then turn to “Slumber Party Success” by Felicia Harris, which details how to host a memorable sleepover with snacks, games, and fun activities. Of course, when the parties are over, it’s time to get back to the grind. With help from Louise Weadock, your after-school routine can be a lot more pleasant from now on. Read “Homework Help” for tips on how to get kids focused for study sessions. And for parents stressing about upcoming Individualized Education Program (IEP) developments for their child with special needs, Ellyn Levy has penned “The IEP Meeting.” Levy outlines the pros and cons of hiring a lawyer to help with IEPs, and gives us a firsthand account of her personal experiences in this area. Don’t forget all of the virtual goodies available at www. parentguidenews.com: The Sandbox Social mommy blog, contests with prizes, and even more articles to help you be the best parent you can be.
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Have a great October and a happy Halloween!
Learning the right answers will get your child through school. Learning how to learn will get your child through life!
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Hudson Country Montessori School Inspiring curious, creative and gifted minds. Toddlers through 8th grade.
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DON’T MISS What a Day
A popular children’s book comes to the big screen in Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. The entertaining flick follows 11-year-old Alexander as he experiences the most terrible and horrible day of his young life. Check it out in theaters beginning October 10.
Living Life
The journey of Manolo, a young man torn between his family and following his heart, is the focus of The Book of Life. The animated feature encourages audiences to celebrate the past while looking to the future. Look for it in a theater near you beginning October 17.
October by Donald McDermott
Halloween Ponies
Ring in Halloween with the new My Little Pony – Friendship Is Magic: Spooktacular Pony Tales! Presented by Shout! Factory Kids and Hasbro Studios, the DVD release features six episodes and a sing-along, as well as additional spooky-themed fun. Copies are available in stores and online now.
All Shapes and Sizes
Nickelodeon expands its line of acclaimed Let’s Learn DVDs with Let’s Learn: Patterns and Shapes. Kids can play along with five new episodes from Team Umizoomi, Dora the Explorer, and Blue’s Clues as they explore circles, squares, triangles, and more. Created by Nickelodeon Home Entertainment, the new DVD is available now.
Monster Challenges
A Movie Mystery
The Hallmark Movies & Mysteries series presents Garage Sale Mysteries. Lori Laughlin stars as Jennifer Shannon, a veteran garage sale shopper with a knack for finding hidden treasures.The original film premieres on The Hallmark Channel October 26. Check you local listings for times.
Happy Halloween
An annual tradition continues this month when ABC Family presents a 13-night programming tribute to Halloween. Aside from holiday-themed episodes of the most popular shows, viewers can also enjoy movies like The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Addams Family, Casper, ParaNorman, and many more. The special event runs October 19-31. Check your local listings.
To Infinity
Play as some of your favorite heroes with the Infinity 2.0 Marvel Value Pack. The specially priced set comes with a starter pack, Spider-Man play set, Captain America, and a disc pack. The pack is available now for the XBox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4,WiiU, and XBox One game systems.
Join Cookie Monster and head back to school with a new app from PBS Kids and Sesame Street. Cookie Monster’s Challenge offers a mix of whimsy and education designed to help kids ages 3-5 adapt to the new school year. Featuring ten mini games, nine levels, and more, the app is available for the iPad.
Under the Spell
Just in time for Halloween, Sabrina — Secrets of a Teenage Witch: A Witch and a Werewolf The Movie comes to DVD and Digital HD. The animated release from Lionsgate Home Entertainment follows the charming Sabrina Spellman as she leads a double life as both a klutzy high schooler and superhero sorceress. Pick up your copy today.
Just for Kicks
Soccer comes to life in stunning detail in FIFA 15. The amazing game from EA Sports comes complete with more than 600 new emotional reactions. FIFA 15 is available in stores and online now for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii, and Nintendo 3DS. Donald McDermott is the managing editor.
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October Frightfully Fun
Jay Ghoul’s House of Curiosities is open at Lyndhurst Mansion October 17-November 2. Located at 635 S. Broadway in Tarrytown, the venue invites guests to explore the gothic castle, participate in family-friendly performances, and much more. Tickets are available for specific timed entrances at Lyndhurst.org. Guests are encouraged to arrive 20 minutes prior to entrance.
by Samantha Chan
Rock and Roll Spirit
Rolie Polie Guacamole hits the stage at the Emelin Theater on October 27 beginning at 1:30pm. Come in costume and get into the spirit of Halloween with this “kindie” band from Brooklyn that has been amazing audiences for years. This program is appropriate for children ages 2 and older. The theater is located at 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck. Get your tickets at www.emelin.org or by dialing (914)698-0098.
Scary Good Time
October 26 brings about the the Scarecrows and Pumpkins Parade at the Greenburgh Nature Center from 11am to 3pm. Head to the 99 Dromore Road venue in Scarsdale to stroll the pumpkin trails and encounter storybook characters. Then enjoy cider, treats, and much more Halloweenthemed fun. Questions? Dial (914)813-1280.
Fruitful Festivities Going Global The 11th Annual Harvest Fest is back at Stone Barns Center on October 5. Beginning at 10am, celebrate with music, hands-on farming, food, activities, hay rides, a seasonal market, and even more fun for the entire family. The farm is located at 630 Bedford Road in Pocantico Hills.
The Hoff-Barthelson Music School invites friends and family to the second annual Global Harmonies concert on October 6, 2pm, at 25 School Lane, Scarsdale. The free performances use connective melodies, harmonies, and rhythms to celebrate diversity and empower global understanding. Additional information on this and other family-friendly performances may be found at www.hbms.org. Samantha Chan is the associate editor.
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Homework Help Tips to improve focus. by Louise Weadock
The beginning of the school year can be such an exciting time. There are thrilling bus rides and lunches with novel faces, hallway hugs with old friends, and of course, new teachers and subjects to explore. Although once the sense of adventure wears off and the assignments pile up, the nightly fight to wrangle a successful homework session begins. Homework time is commonly identified as one of the biggest causes of anxiety for both children and parents during the school year. As head coaches, parents are challenged to find ways to get kids “fit” for academic exercises. They help with strategies to optimize learning potential. A child’s mind develops with sensory challenges from different smells, tastes, sounds, colors, lights, physical feelings, and other forms of input. Spending the day sitting in a classroom can fail to fulfill a child’s need for various types of stimulation, and the short time slots allotted to recess and gym don’t compensate for this sensory deficiency. Parents must find ways to fill in the sensory gap. Luckily, there are proven methods that help to engage a child’s senses and mind right from the moment he steps off the bus at the end of the school day through homework time that evening. With practice, these methods just may change otherwise stressful routines into positive experiences.
Begin with muscle movement. Nothing can fulfill a child’s need to burn energy and take in sensory stimulation quite like a workout of the muscles. Whether through outdoor play or an indoor fitness program, engaging in activities that involve climbing, swinging, running, or biking can help to fire up sensoryprocessing to the brain and decrease anxiety. Such activities loosen joints and enhance overall awareness. A good workout can also enhance relationships between children and their surroundings. It can improve the child’s overall sense of self by stimulating the vestibular system, located within the inner ear, which increases athletic coordination and spatial awareness. Just 45 minutes of movement and hands-on physical activity before school or homework time loosens muscle tension, oxygenates the brain, promotes healthy circulation, builds focus, and fulfills sensory needs. Muscle activity supports the comprehension of big thoughts and persistence to complete complex projects. Additionally, information learned while performing motorplanning exercises (trampolining, jump roping, hiking, and biking) is more quickly absorbed and stays in memory for a longer period of time than facts learned while merely sitting. Help children prepare sensory snacks. If there is one thing that every parent understands, it is that a hungry child is an antsy child. So, start your homework routine with a snack. Food can be calming and fulfilling. The hands-on nature of preparing food has the additional benefit of keeping children active as they get ready to work. Smells and tastes experienced while learning create memory pegs for the child. Measurements, fractions, mixtures, and nutritional facts all present learning opportunities that the child will remember. While preparing snacks, discuss the upcoming homework topics. Strategize a plan of attack. Identify areas where help is needed. Children are calmed through the input of different smells, tastes, and textures that abound.
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Develop a quiet, calm, and consistent homework space. Smells, colors, lights, and sounds are great when we are trying to fulfill our sensory needs, but homework time requires a calm, clean, clutter-free, and consistent space to prevent children from being distracted by their surroundings. Use putty on pencils to make them easier to hold. If the child can tolerate it, turn on soothing background music (preferably classical) to set a calm mood. Turn off the TV, and minimize other sources of distracting sounds and flashing lights. Homework should be the sole focus of the moment. Experiment a little bit to find out exactly what sources of sensory input optimize your child’s homework productivity, and understand that these will be different for every child. Offer minor sensory input to improve focus and concentration. Kitchen smells from dinner or dessert that waft into the homework area can provide minor sensory input without being distracting. Some children respond well to textured toys that keep one hand fidgeting, while others prefer the feel and taste of chewing gum. Still others like visual patterns to keep the mind occupied. Homework should be the focus of homework time, but it is unrealistic to expect any child to be able to attune 100 percent of his brainpower to a worksheet. Minor sensory distractions can go a long way toward curbing restlessness without costing productivity. Experiment and listen to your child to find what works. Segment homework time into different blocks. Any child will dread the idea of having to sit down for an hour of homework, but most children are more willing to sit through several 10- to 20-minute blocks of it. After a set amount of time, offer your child a 5- to 10-minute break. If a short break is chosen, provide more sensory-pleasing activities like cooking or an art project to lessen restlessness before it’s time to get back to work. Stay away from the computer or tablet screens during sensory time. Don’t “helicopter,” but do keep homework sessions lighthearted. Homework shouldn’t be stressful. Be mindful of the signals that you put out, even if you feel frustrated, and be attuned to your child’s moods. Children respond to the moods and mindsets of their parents. If you are anxiously hovering over your child’s paper, your child may sense and mime your attitude. Instead, keep calm, collected, and on target. Treat homework as an adventure, and your child will positively respond.
Avoid phone, tablet, and computer games in the hours leading up to homework time. Playing a video game employs the short muscle group, which is reactive and counteracts the brain activity required for homework completion.
Louise Weadock MPH, RN, is the founder of WeeZee – The Science of Play, an 18,000-square-foot play and learning facility for children all ages and abilities at 480 Bedford Road, Chappaqua, New York. The mom of two is also a registered child psychiatric nurse with 30 years of ASD/ SID research experience, including research at Johns Hopkins University. Weadock is a known sensory stimulation expert and has written articles for a variety of parenting publications. For more information, call (914)752-2100 or visit www.weezeeworld.com. your needs, your neighborhood
October 2014 I parentguide News I 11
by Dr. Keith Kantor
D O O H D L I CH
Y T I S BE ns.
optio t n e m t a e r t d tion an
Preven
Childhood obesity rates remain high in the United States of America. Obesity is defined as an accumulation of body fat to the extent of which it may have a negative impact on health and increase the risk for chronic diseases. The varying causes of childhood obesity include a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, genetics, and socioeconomic status. Two main treatments for obesity involve changes in exercise and diet.
A
n exercise plan for a child should be fun and match his personality. It is not wise to force a child into the same fitness regimen an adult would follow. If your child is not competitive, then don’t force him to participate in competitive sports. Instead, find other active programs he can do outside of organized sports. Children should daily engage in leisure play that requires movement for at least one hour or more. Taking your child to the park, playing catch, shooting hoops, going for a walk, etc., all provide economical ways to encourage fitness. Also, limit television, computer, and tablet time to only one hour per day. This will not only encourage more healthy activity in general, but also increase creativity during playtime. One important thing to remember is that the best guidance is through example. Children are great observers, and they can spot a hypocrite. “Do as I say, not as I do” is no way to inspire a child to be active and eat healthy foods. Make small lifestyle changes with your children. Regular park trips or walks for exercise and daily eating five servings of fruit and vegetables present simple ways to get started. Limit sodas and sugary, salty, or processed treats to specific times. First, educate your children about the downfalls of eat-
In the United States,
17% of children
ages 2-19
are classified as obese and have a body mass index higher than 30. BMI is a representation of height compared to weight. An optimal BMI range is
18.5-24.99.
ing and drinking too much sugar. Talk about tooth and tummy aches and gaining excessive body fat. Then, move on to limiting intake to particular times like after practice or Saturdays at lunch. If you do away with soda and sugar altogether, chances are your children will be unhappy. This compromise keeps their consumption special and creates realistic boundaries. Plan and cook healthy meals and snacks together as a family. Children love hands-on activities. If they help prepare a nutritious meal, it is more likely they will eat it. Depending on the age of your children, the level of help they can offer will vary. Start by getting them to contribute to your shopping list and excursions, as well as having them set the table and mix ingredients. There are many different ways to involve kids of all ages in the process of making a healthy meal. And spending time together as a family is priceless. Studies have shown that families who eat meals together are much closer than those who don’t. Always include healthy fats in each meal and snack. Fat is not what makes us gain weight; sugar and processed foods are what pack on the pounds. Incorporating healthy fats from nuts, seeds, nut butters, avocados, hummus, and healthy oils will keep your child feeling full for a longer period of time. This reduces food cravings for processed snacks that are rich in sodium and sugar. Have raw vegetables with guacamole or hummus as snack; make a healthy trail mix with nuts, cereal, and dried fruit; or make homemade nutrition bars with almond butter.
Dr. Keith Kantor is a leading nutritionist and co-author of The Green Box League of Nutritious Justice (Effective Press), which provides exercises, tips, and recipes to help prevent childhood obesity. The book recently won a Mom’s Choice Award. For more facts about childhood obesity, visit www.cdc.gov/obesity/childhood/.
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October 2014 I parentguide News I 13
Costume
CRAFT
Create a couple of easy but inspired Halloween outfits.
by Abby Larson
It’s easy enough to visit a pop-up Halloween store and let the kids pick outfits they’ll likely wear only once. But with a little planning and lots of creativity, you can create some truly memorable costumes. If your family participates in making them, too, please note there should be adult supervision at all times. Below are two concepts that will help your imagination take flight.
Hot Air Balloon Costume Whimsical and adorable, the Hot Air Balloon costume is sure to garner compliments from your child’s peers, and your friends, too!
Supplies:
• 30-inch red latex balloon • Helium tank (party stores can likely blow up the balloon for you without having to rent a tank) • 36-inch balloon netting • Gold spray paint • 10-inch foam floral hoop • Red parachute cord • Red woven cotton straps • Red duct tape • Red felt • Brown lunch bags • Rubber bands (½ yard) • ½-inch foam sheet • Basket large enough to fit around your child • Utility knife • Scissors • Hot glue gun and glue sticks • Pilot’s cap • Pilot’s jacket
Instructions: 1) Use the utility knife to cut out the bottom of the basket. Line the inside edge
with duct tape so there are no sharp points. 2) Crumple a lunch bag into a ball, and stuff it inside another lunch bag; tie with a rubber band. Repeat to make three other “sandbags.” 3) Use the gold spray paint to coat the sandbags, floral hoop, and balloon netting. Let the pieces dry for 30 minutes. 4) Cut the red felt into small triangles. Thread the red parachute cord through the spokes of the basket, leaving an arc on each side, and knot at the ends on the inside of the basket. Glue the triangles to the cord to make pennant flags. 5) Thread the red straps through both sides of the basket, as far apart as your child’s shoulders. Glue the ends to the straps on one side, then place the basket on your child to measure where to cut the ends on the other sides. Glue remaining ends in place. 6) Tie red parachute cord from the basket corners to the floral hoop. Hold the hoop level and at a height tall enough to leave room for your child. Tie the sandbags onto each corner of the basket with red parachute cord. 7) Cut the foam into 2-inch strips as long as the sides of the basket. Hot glue to the top of each basket side. Completely cover each piece of foam with red duct tape to form a cushioned rim to the basket. 8) Cut 4-inch strips of red felt, and glue them end-to-end to form a scarf. Cut the ends with scissors to form a fringe. 9) Inflate the red balloon, and place it in the gold netting. Have another person hold the balloon while you tie the netting to the floral hoop, keeping the length even on all sides. 10) Dress your little one in the hat, jacket, and scarf. Place the basket over his head, and help him pull his arms through the straps. Your child is now ready to fly! 14 I parentguide News I October 2014
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Bubble Bath Costume
Photo credit: Ruth Eileen Photography
Supplies:
• 9-inch clear latex balloons • 5-inch clear latex balloons • 5-inch pearl white latex balloons • White shirt and pants • White elastic • Hot glue gun and sticks • Rubber cement • Rubber ducks • Blowing bubbles • Safety pins • Wagon • White fabric (enough to cover the wagon) • Packing tape
Instructions: 1) Wrap the wagon in the white fabric, securing it to the
underside of the wagon with packing tape. 2) Blow up a whole bunch of each size of balloon (no helium needed). Blow each balloon to close to full size, then slowly leak out the air until it reaches its roundest shape. Tie it off. 3) Use the rubber cement to attach balloons to the fabriccovered wagon and to each other. Start with a ring of the largest size balloon around the edge of the wagon. Build up the “bubbles,” varying size and color as you go. Leave a gap in the balloons on one side so a child can easily get in and out of the “bath.” 4) Cut a piece of white elastic slightly shorter than the circumference of your child’s head, and hot glue its ends to form a headband. Hot glue the tied ends of 3-4 balloons to the elastic loop to complete the bubble headband. 5) Glue or safety pin several clusters of balloons to your child’s shirt (have him put the shirt on first). 6) Use rubber cement to adhere rubber ducks to a few of the bubbles. You can also add bathtime props like scrubs, washcloths, and soap. Give your child blowing bubbles to add to the fun!
Abby Larson is editor and founder of the wildly popular wedding blog Style Me Pretty and its offshoot Style Me Pretty Living. Larson has devoted the past six years to Style Me Pretty, seeking out quality content, cultivating her editorial eye, building an expert team, and raising the wedding bar. SMP Living is home to party ideas, DIYs, recipes, travel tips, home tours, and resources for inspired living. Discover Larson’s dreamy, fabulous world at www.stylemepretty.com and in her book Style Me Pretty Weddings: Inspiration & Ideas for an Unforgettable Celebration (Potter Style). your needs, your neighborhood
October 2014 I parentguide News I 15
L
by Ellyn Levy
The
IEP Meeting Should you bring a lawyer?
W
hen I started the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process — necessary for public school students in special education and related services — for my daughter, I got the shock of a lifetime. I initially had no legal representation and was essentially told that I didn’t know what would be best for my daughter. I felt harassed, and even worse, I discovered that the school district could make decisions with which I might not agree. All of this could and would happen even though I had documentation from a neuropsychologist outlining exactly what educational accommodations my daughter needed to succeed in school. I thought it would have been fairly easy to get these accommodations in place. Well, it turned out I was very naïve. I learned quickly and painfully that I could trust no one within the school district to have the same level of dedication to supporting my daughter that I did as her parent. I realized that I needed the support of an attorney versed in education law. I needed a strong, dynamic, no-nonsense attorney who could teach me how to listen, know what was possible and reasonable to expect, and calm me down when I could not get everything for my daughter that I had hoped to obtain. Having legal counsel gave me the chance to review all documents the school might provide before a meeting (although rarely was anything offered in advance). The attorney and I also reviewed what my daughter’s doctor recommended so I knew what we were requesting. The lawyer sat between my husband and me. She quite literally had to be there for me to lean on and to explain what the pupil personnel director was offering in the way of accommodations. When you make the decision to bring counsel, you must inform the school district ahead of time because it will then supply legal counsel to rebut yours. In my experience, the atmosphere does seem a lot more caustic and frightening when there are attorneys in the room. But that does not mean you shouldn’t bring one. It’s no picnic without one, either! For me, there really was no question that I was going to live with the anxiety of an unpleasant experience for my daughter’s sake. 16 I parentguide News I October 2014
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egal representation: Just thinking about it seems so overwhelming and off-putting for many parents. How bad does it really have to be before you decide that you need the help of an attorney who can hold your hand (both literally and figuratively) through the IEP process? Well, I can tell you from experience that it has to be pretty awful to go to that extreme. I don’t think any parents really want to believe they can’t get what their child actually needs from the school district without legal representation, but it’s sometimes the case.
During an IEP meeting with legal representation, the attorneys joust legal points — your child is or is not entitled to certain educational accommodations. It’s not set in stone, there is no recipe, and the lawyers definitely battle. I found that the words they used were often jargon that my attorney needed to explain in terms I could understand. After many such meetings, I got used to the language and the tenor of the atmosphere in the room and learned to expect it. I watched the discomfort on the teachers faces as they watched this scene unfold. I found the strongest reason to have legal representation was that I was able to get more IEP benefits than I would have if I went it alone. Education lawyers are experts on what your child is entitled to because it is their job to know and understand the law. As parents, we can (and should!) become highly informed advocates for our children, but we just cannot have the same level of expertise as education lawyers. I also found that I learned how to advocate for my daughter through my attorney. After a while, I was able to go to these meetings with only my daughter, and she and I could advocate quite well. If we were unsure about something, we
Resources
Additional copaa.org b.org/ parentcenterhu er find-your-cent
ncld.org
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who are willing to work on a pro-bono or sliding scale fee basis. Contact your local Parent Training Information Center, bar association, or the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates for more information. If you have a school district with a proven track record that will listen to what you believe are your child’s needs, then I would go without an attorney. Remember, though, if the district does something with which you don’t agree, you always have the right to bring legal representation. The old adage “You get more with honey than you get with vinegar” may be true in this situation. Avoiding the contentious situation of using an attorney may allow you to have better overall relationships with administrators and teachers, and this can definitely benefit your child. I think my daughter would have likely felt more supported by the district if there had been less or no fighting for the accommodations she needed. I believe each family must decide what is best for its child. There is no easy way to walk into an IEP meeting. Whether or not you bring representation, you must know your legal rights. If you feel having legal representa419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 419 Park Avenue South,don’t New hesitate. York, NY It10016 • 212-213-8840 Faxhelp 212-447-7734 tion is necessary, may be difficult, but it •will you get didn’t sign any paperwork and scheduled a follow-up meeting. We were your child what she needs, and that’s what really matters. in control, mostly. We gained confidence our TO: FAXand # a better understanding ofto: FAx # rights. We had the strength and knowledge to walk out and consult our atEllyn Levy is a speech-language patholotorney by phone by the time my daughter was in 10th grade. gist whoiSSue has worked FROM: DATE: From: DAte: with children and Of course, bringing legal counsel toISSUE an IEP meeting had some negaadults in private schools, universities, tive connotations, too. As I described previously, it made the meeting even hospitals, and private practice for 35 more contentious than it already was. Having lawyers in the room escalated Please call or fax your comments and/or OK. Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. the meeting to a whole other level of importance, and the tension rose for years. She currently has a private practice everyone; it was truly palpable when you walked through the door. in New York City and may be reached via SIGNATURE OFAnother APPROVAL: SigNAture oF APProvAl: major con to considering legal representation is the financial ellynlevy1@gmail.com. This article has aspect of this process. It is expensive from the very beginning, when the been reprinted with the permission of the attorney accepts your child’s case and you sign a retainer fee, to each time National Center for Learning Disabilities. you speak on the phone and go to a meeting. There are education attorneys
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Free Demo Classes Available 914-722-2025 www.overthemoonmusicandmore.com October 2014 I parentguide News I 17
by Ellyn Levy
Honesty & LDs A Why it’s important to speak
openly about learning disabilities.
dvocating for your child around relatives and friends who don’t understand learning disabilities (LDs) and/or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a skill you can master. It takes some personal insight and the desire to be supportive of your most precious gift: your child.
I have a hard time understanding why adults hide certain personal information about themselves. I find that it leads to a loss of authenticity in relationships and lack of true connection. That could easily be due to limited self-confidence and perhaps poor self-esteem. After all, if you show your true colors, then someone might not like the “real” you. As human beings, we all want to be liked and have our families and friends support us. If we expose ourselves too much, it leaves us open to criticism and makes us vulnerable. When we become parents, we are keenly aware of our children’s vulnerabilities and have a strong desire to protect them from anyone who might not understand them. When our children are diagnosed with learning challenges of any sort, we want to protect them even more. The question is: How do we do that? The answer is straightforward and daunting to many parents and caregivers: We must teach children to be honest about their learning challenges and not shy away from using the correct terminology to describe their diagnoses. If we don’t, we’re teaching the child there’s something to be ashamed of. Hiding implies there’s something wrong. If you hide the fact that a child has a LD or ADHD, the child may think, I can’t be myself. Being forthcoming and advocating for your child can do just
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the opposite; it boosts a child’s self-confidence. Speaking openly about your child’s challenges does a world of good for the entire family. It fosters honest communication about the specific learning disability. It enables you to provide information for those who may not know about the disability. And if you are faced with skepticism, you can address it head on. One time, a close friend told me that my daughter had “an unfair advantage” because she could take a state exam with extended test time and in a separate location due to her dyslexia and ADHD. These accommodations were legitimate and mandated for my daughter, and I was mortified to hear such an opinion from a friend. I knew I had to educate this person and called her to tell her I was upset about her comment. I felt she didn’t truly understand the nature of my daughter’s learning disability and how it academically impacted her. After I explained my feelings and enlightened my friend about the situation, she no longer harbored the ridiculous notion that somehow my daughter had an unfair advantage. It took patience on my part to advocate and openly communicate for my daughter. In the end, though, it was key to my friend’s understanding and maintaining our relationship. Ellyn Levy is a speech-language pathologist who has worked with children and adults in private schools, universities, hospitals, and private practice for 35 years. She currently has a private practice in New York City and may be reached via ellynlevy1@gmail. com. This article has been reprinted with the permission of the National Center for Learning Disabilities.
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October 2014 I parentguide News I 19
Celebrating a birthday is one of the most exciting times in a child’s life. Since there is nothing more fun for a child than to spend an entire day and night with friends, a slumber party presents the perfect way to make the birthday girl or boy feel special. However, the idea of hosting a slumber party may give you thoughts of children running amok at your home as food is strewn everywhere. Really, though, it doesn’t have to be that complicated! The following tips instruct how to host a successful slumber party.
Invitations
party area. For dinner, allow the children to prepare their own meal to encourage interaction and creativity. Tacos are kid friendly and simple to make. Place taco shells, meat or vegetarian bean fillings, tomatoes, cheese, lettuce, and spices in separate bowls on the kitchen table. Distribute paper plates, and have each child put together a taco. Just add drinks to complete the meal.
Dessert
To simplify the cake and ice cream presentation, prepare the Cake Cone recipe in the sidebar ahead of time. It only requires three ingredients: ice cream cones, cake mix, and ice cream.
Allow your child to create invitations. Purchase blank invitation cards, stickers, and colored pencils to enable creative designs. Don’t forget to include party details, such as asking guests to bring a blanket and pillow. Try to invite an even number of children so that no one is left out when a game or activity calls for partners.
Decorations
Since a slumber party is an all-night event, hang balloons from the ceiling by crepe paper. This decor will maintain the party atmosphere throughout the night, and your decorations will last longer being out of reach.
Games
Play a few simple games once all of the children have arrived to build cohesion and relationships. Some suggestions: The Paper Clip Game. Attach 10 paper clips together for each child. Have the children sit in a circle and detach each paper clip as fast as they can without changing the shape of the paperclips. The first person to complete the task wins a small prize. To enhance the excitement, play upbeat music during the game. The Mummy. Partners are chosen by drawing names (so no one feels bad for being the last person picked). Then, one child from each pair uses an entire roll of toilet paper to wrap his partner like a mummy. The first pair to finish the roll wins a prize.
Food
Provide snacks like a bowls of chips, a healthy veggie tray, and fruit around the
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Activity
After the meal, everyone should be ready to wind down with a fun but low-key activity. Spread an old bed sheet or a drop cloth in the middle of the floor. In its center, place stickers, glue, foam shapes, markers, glitter, and similar items. Give each child a plain white T-shirt to decorate with these supplies. Once the shirts are complete, hang them up to dry. Return them to the children at the end of the party.
Bedtime
When it’s time for bed, allow the children to sleep in the TV room on the floor watching an age-appropriate and engaging movie they’ve chosen. Before long, they’ll likely relax and fall asleep.
Proof Morning after
Once the party is over, provide tortillas, cooked eggs, and cheese on the breakfast table so guests can make breakfast burritos and heat them in the microwave. As they watch a little television and talk, their parents will soon arrive to pick them up. Your child and little guests will have memories that will last for a lifetime.
Cake Cone recipe Enjoy cake and ice cream in the convenience of a cone. Ingredients • Ice cream cones (yellow wafers) • Ice cream • Cake mix made from the box • Food coloring (optional) Instructions
Proof
1 Fill each ice cream cone with 1 tablespoon of cake
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 mixture. Don’t use too much mixture because it will rise, and you don’t want it to overflow.
2 Place mixture-filled cones on a cookie sheet. Bake them for about 10 minutes.
3 Remove the cones from the oven, and cool them for
Felicia Harris is an instructor of Chef’s Delights cooking class in Mesquite, Texas, where children ages 4 to 6 years prepare easy-to-make, healthy meals. She is the author of children’s cookbook Slumber Party Recipes (CreateSpace), which can be found at Amazon.com.
about 15 minutes. Put candles in each cake cone and sing “Happy Birthday.”
4 Remove the candles. Add a scoop of ice cream in the additional space left at the top of the cone and serve.
open house October 21 9:30am-2:00pm
Come learn from our experienced Montessori Teachers who provide an individualized, hands on learning environment. We offer a variety of programs from toddler through Kindergarten! Extended hours are available.
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27 Crane Road (914) 472-4404 your needs, your neighborhood
Dobbs Ferry
535 Broadway (914) 693-4443 October 2014 I parentguide News I 21
Let’s Celebrate! Entertainers, Party Places and More...
Alcott Montessori School 27 Crane Road Scarsdale, NY 10583 (914)472-4404 www.alcottschool.org The Alcott School Crane Road gym is available for birthday parties for children from the age of 2 to 6 years. The gym and playground hold up to 25 preschoolers. The school provides small chairs and tables, while parents must provide their own refreshments, paper 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 goods, entertainment and decorations. An Alcott staff person is in attendance during the party. The affordable party affords party-throwTO: FAX # For more details and an ers 1.5 hours of staff person supervision. application, call (914)472-4404 for the Scarsdale location.
Proof
FROM:
ISSUE DATE:
Blue Moon Mexican Cafe Englewood, Old Tappan, Woodcliff Lake, Wyckoff, NJ and Bronxville, NY (201)848-4088 Please call or fax your comments and/or OK. www.bluemoonmexicancafe.com Looking to add a touch of spice to your child’s next birthday celSIGNATURE ebration OF APPROVAL: without heading south of the border? Then take an unforgettable trip to the moon! The Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, that is. With four convenient locations throughout the Bergen County area and one in Westchester, the Blue Moon Mexican Cafe presents
visitors of all ages with a bright, airy atmosphere that is brought to life by a unique lighting style and artistic decor. An outgoing, child-friendly staff is always waiting to greet your little ones. The Blue Moon is fully equipped to provide the party of a lifetime for as few as 10 to as many as 60 kids ages 4 and up. Your party guests will take part in a fun-filled celebration that includes a mouth-watering menu. Children will love Blue Moon’s delicious selection of Chips and Salsa; Burgers and Fries; Beef or Chicken Tacos; Grilled Cheese; Pasta and Hot Dogs. Families can choose from buffet style or table service. For your added convenience, Blue Moon can also provide a birthday cake and all of your paper goods. Families are always welcome to liven up the festivities by inviting their own entertainer to the party. Children’s birthday parties at the Blue Moon are available 7 days a week! In addition to their wonderful birthday party packages, the Blue Moon Mexican Cafe also offers take-out, private parties and catering for all occasions. Call their main office today at (201)848-4088 to find out more!
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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 California Pizza Kitchen 365 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale, NY 10583 (914)722-0600 www.cpk.com You throw the party. They toss the dough. At California Pizza Kitch-
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22 I parentguide News I October 2014
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BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY
PROOF
en, not only does the staff serve creative pizzas, pastas and salads, they also offer some truly creative programs for the community. So, for a celebration as unique as the pizza, let CPK host your child’s next birthday party. CPKids Birthday Parties are a great way to celebrate your child’s special day. Children ages 10 and under can enjoy kid-friendly food, souvenir cups, an exciting hands-on restaurant tour and a certificate for a free CPKids Meal on their next visit. There’s even a special CPKids personalized chef jacket for the birthday child! Beyond fun parties, ask about CPK’s fundraising events to raise money for local schools and non-profit groups.
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Central Park Dance 450 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale, NY 10583 (914)723-2940 www.centralparkdance.com Central Park Dance, where every student is special. With more than 175 weekly classes, and more than 30 years of experience, Central Park Dance offers Westchester’s highest quality programs at every age and level. Have the birthday party of your dreams! Choose from hip-hop, jazz, ballet, fun-n-fit, hip-hop princess, fairy tale ballet, hip-hop boys, tippy toes ballet, DJ, and more! This unique party is designed to cater to every age group and can be customized. Voted best of Westchester 2013, the party staff at Central Park Dance has been regarded as the finest in the area. In the state-of-the-art facility, guests are provided with a fully decorated spacious studio, a delightful and comfortable room to serve food and beverages, paper goods, custom invitations and an experienced, attentive staff that will make your party truly spectacular and memorable. Rentals are also available for parties, for more information call or visit www.centralparkdance.com. Come and experience the ultimate dance party!
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Funfuzion 19 LeCount Place, New Rochelle, NY 10801 (914)637-7575 info@funfuziononline.com www.funfuziononline.com Funfuzion at New Roc City is Westchester’s Largest Indoor Entertainment Center and the only entertainment megaplex of its kind in your needs, your neighborhood
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Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises Pier 83, West 42nd Street, NYC 10036 (212)563-3200 info@circleline42.com www.circleline42.com The company that has hosted more than 60 million guests since 1945, and is considered “America’s Favorite Boat Ride,� also brings you fun-filled Kid’s Cruises for unforgettable birthday parties on selected dates. Boys and girls are sure to love their cruise featuring live entertainment, a strolling magician, face-painter or balloon artist, photo opportunities with the Statue of Liberty, giveaways for all attending children, and much more fun. Boarding begins at 9:30, setting sail at 10am. Group rates are available for parties, play groups and gathering with 15 or more people. In addition to exciting birthday parties, don’t forget Circle Line’s five different leisurely tours including the famous Best of NYC Cruise, the Landmark Cruise, the quick and easy Liberty Cruise or the sunset Harbor Lights cruise. All cruises include all-new tour content created in partnership with the New-York Historical Society, creating an enthralling narrative of the history, culture and landscape that make New York Iconic. Visit www.circleline42.com or find Circle Line on Facebook for more information on this exciting and fun way to see celebrate a birthday against the world’s most famous skyline.
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October 2014 I parentguide News I 23
BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY
The Tom Thumb Campus 1949E. Main St., Mohegan Lake, NY
www.tomthumbpreschool.com
l! We are a schoo Ages 2.9 and up. Younger 5s class Operating hours: 7am to 6pm 2:15 or 3:15 Before and After Dismissal Programs Care Avalable NY State Certified Curriculum
For children who will be two by Nov. 30 1/2 Day or Full Day Programs Before and After Care Available
Stay & Play Club Before (starting Sept. 2014) or After School ProgramsOpen till 6pm for Lakeland Elementary school aged children
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914-528-5600 Directors:
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Teodora Cepoi-Olympic Silver Medalist Sorin Cepoi-Twice Olympian Competitor Tom Brophy-Club Manager Nancy Brophy-Owner
24 I parentguide News I October 2014
Westchester County that offers five distinctive entertainment venues under one roof! It is open seven days a week including holidays, so the fun is ongoing-- rain or shine! Chooze or Fuze your funtastic experience from video games, rides, glow bowling, glow mini golf, billiards, and indoor go-karting. Funfuzion’s premiere featured attraction, their multi-level, state–of–the–art, Level-12 Lazer Tag Arena is full of action-packed fun! 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 the World’s Greatest Birthday Party or 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. 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 over? Jodi’s Gym is the place. Kids 1-12 years run, jump, climb, swing and tumble to their heart’s delight on equipment designed especially for them. Their bright, colorful, safe and spacious facilities are truly a child’s dream come true. Safety-certified instructors guide your child and friends on balance beams, bars, rings, ropes, slides, tunnels, the ever-popular parachute, incredible space bouncer, Tumble Trak and much, much more! Top-notch, caring certified instructors attend to your child’s every need. When your party is at Jodi’s, the whole place is yours. After an hour of gym time, the group moves to a separate area to enjoy birthday cake and goodies that Jodi’s can supply. Their friendly staff will set up, serve and clean up for you. Jodi’s Gym is happy to supply balloons, wonderful party favors, your child’s favorite characters, musical entertainment, as well as many other fun party extras. You just sit back and enjoy the fun! Don’t 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-of-the-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! parentguidenews.com
BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY Medieval Times ity located adjacent to the Tarrytown train station. The field house The Meadowlands Castle boasts two indoor turf fields for small-sided games or team train149 Polito Ave., Lyndhurst, NJ 07071-0327 ing. Besides offering sports instruction, recreation and competitive (888)935-6878 programs for both youth and adults, OnTrack specializes in customwww.medievaltimes.com ized birthday parties. Younger children might prefer an unstrucIn the mood for some old-fashioned fun? Medieval Times invites tured Playzone party with air castles, tunnels, tent house, and balls; you to come celebrate more than 20 years of feasting, fighting and or add a party professional for added fun and games. Older children fun! A popular dinner attraction for all ages, Medieval Times Casjust like to play sports– with or without one of OnTrack’s coorditles features a two-hour dinner and live show based upon authennators– just pick your favorites: Soccer, Kickball, Touch Football, tic medieval history. Guests enjoy a four course medieval banquet Capture-the-Flag, Relay Races, then wrap it all up with a “parents while witnessing brave knights compete on horseback in games of vs kids” Dodgeball game or Tug-o-War. Find out why OnTrack was skill, jousting matches and swordfights. Admission includes a four selected the Best Indoor Sport Center by Westchester Magazine course dinner, beverages and a live show. Parking is free. In addi(Best of Westchester 2009). No gimmicks, just the best stress-free tion to their regular daily schedules, Medieval Times is the perfect parties around. OnTrack also offers batting cages, baseball training, place to celebrate the next birthday of the young Lord or Lady of group fitness and Zumba classes. For more information visit www. your own castle! Their special action-packed birthday party packontracksport.com or call (914)909-2974. ages include preferred seating, an individual photo with the King or Queen, a cheering banner, birthday cake, and an announcement ProSwing Parkthe Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 •ProSwing 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 in honor of the birthday child 419 during performance! Medieval Baseball and Softball Training Center Times is located west of Giants Stadium and just minutes from 27 Radio Circle Dr., Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 TO:locations include Hanover, MD; Law- FAX # mid-town Manhattan. Other (914)242-1626 renceville, GA; Kissimmee, FL; Schaumburg, IL; Myrtle Beach, ProSwing of Port Chester SC; Dallas, TX; Buena Park, CA; and Toronto, Ontario. Call the 36 Midland Ave., Port Chester, NY 10573 FROM: ISSUE DATE: number above for reservations and further information. (914)937-6700 www.proswingbaseball.com OnTrack Sports Center Celebrateand/or that once-in-a-lifetime birthday party at ProSwing, with Please call or fax your comments OK. 29 South Depot Plaza, Tarrytown, NY 10591 locations in Port Chester and Mount Kisco. ProSwing offers its (914)909-2974 state-of-the-art facility and equipment for your child and friends SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: marketing@ontracksport.com to enjoy. Kids play a variety of games and contests with qualified www.ontracksport.com instructors, all in a safe and fun environment. Some of the games OnTrack Sport Center is a 26,000-square-foot indoor sports facilinclude running bases, the sliding game, a real baseball game in
PROOF
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Ardsley • 914-591-4400 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Offer expires 11/30/14
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for up to 3 people- $10 value Life The Place To Be
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October 2014 I parentguide News I 25
BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY the ProSwing Turf Stadium and much, much more. The last halfhour of the party is held in a private party room, where everyone sings happy birthday and eats cake! This unique experience creates special moments and lasting memories. In addition to the party festivities, the birthday boy/girl receives a ProSwing T-shirt and a free 30-minute private lesson gift card. When it comes to selecting the best party for your child, ProSwing is a no-doubt home run. Go to www.proswingbaseball.com for more information, and call (914)937-6700 (Port Chester) or (914)242-1626 (Mount Kisco) to book your party today! Tom Thumb 1949 E. Main St., Mohegan, NY 10547 (914)528-KIDS(5437) Dynamic Gymnastics, on the Tom Thumb Campus, offers an excellent birthday party package that makes your child’s party fun for all ages. Your party includes one hour of gymnastics fun and party games with the coaches on the gym floor. Children under three may participate if an adult accompanies them. There is also a one hour party time held in our upstairs party room which overlooks the gym. Parents may bring food and/or drinks to serve to the attending children. There is a minimum number of guests is ten children for each party. For each additional child there is an additional fee. Members of Dynamic Gymnastics or Tom Thumb Preschool receive special pricing. A deposit is required for all parties, half of which is refundable if the party is canceled at least 48 hours ahead of scheduled time. You may schedule a party on Saturday at 4pm or 5:15pm, or on Sunday at 11am, 12:15, 1:30 or 2:45pm. For additional information or to reserve a party time please call (914)528-KIDS(5437). For your convenience, postcard invitations are provided with room for your information and directions are printed to Dynamic Gymnastics. Westchester Circus Arts 105 Wildey St., Tarrytown, NY 10591 www.westchestercircusarts.com Westchester Circus Arts offers dream parties for any child. Imagine 120 minutes of celebrations led by professional circus trainers and aerial artists from Big Apple Circus, Cirque du Soleil, Cirque Le Masque, Ringling Bros., and other world-famous circus acts! The Big Top Party package invites your birthday boy or girl and guests to walk a tightwire, juggle, swing on the trapeze, climb the silks, balance on the rolling globe, walk on stilts, make a human pyramid, and more, under the supervision of two instructors. Tables, chairs, paper goods, water, and a balloon and clown nose for each child are provided. All you have to bring are your tasty treats and any food! The Circus Center is conveniently located three blocks north of the Tarrytown Metro-North railroad station in the Tarrytown Community Opportunity Center. Call or visit www.westchestercircusarts. com to book your next fete today! YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester 250 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, NY 10605 (914)949-8030 www.ymca-cnw.org Celebrate Your Special Day! Are you having a birthday? An anniversary? A baby shower? Have your next party or function at the White Plains YMCA. Choose from several rooms and party packages. The YMCA’s team would love to help host your next special event. Specialty packages include activities such as arts & crafts, sports & fitness, dance, gymnastics, and pool parties. Mention “YMCA Party” to receive preferred pricing from Famous La Famiglia Pizza and Buttercup Bakery. For more information, dial (914)949-8030 or e-mail wp_info@ymca-cnw.org. 26 I parentguide News I October 2014
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TRAVEL
by Donald McDermott
The LullabyÂŽ Baby 3-Stage Portable Playard offers all the baby-care essentials to create a cozy environment for baby and a practical carestation for mom and dad. www.chiccousa.com
Proof
Whether visiting family and friends or heading out to eat, parents and babies are sure to love Cozy Cover’s portable easy seat. www.cozy-cover.com
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Simple, portable and convenient, the LullaGo™ bassinet is the ideal place for your newborn to sleep at home, on vacation, or anywhere else. www.chiccousa.com
The coolest, comfiest, and www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 most stylish accessory for safe travels, the BubbleBum inflatable booster seat is a great alternative to standard plastic boosters. www.bubblebum.us
Parents who are always on the move will love the new On The Go Changing Pad from Cozy Cover. The colorful pad is easy to store and comes with a Velcro handle. www.cozy-cover.com
Go to www.parentguidenews.com for a chance to win these great prizes!
Donald McDermott is the managing editor.
SK-10/14
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This is your opportunity to win some very exciting products and/or services featured in this issue’s Update, Travel, and Health columns. Log onto www.parentguidenews.com, find the “Win This Product� logo on our homepage, follow some simple directions, and good luck.
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your needs, your neighborhood
October 2014 I parentguide News I 27
HEALTH
by Samantha Chan
4 2
1 Pack a truly complete lunch for your little ones with the brand-new Omiebox.The BPA- and phthalate-free plastic lunchbox features an insulated bowl to pack hot and cold items together. www.omielife.com/omiebox 2 Up the cleaning game in your home with the Soniclean VT Plus S-200 vacuum, which has a fragrance-dispensing system that freshens your home as you clean. www.mysoniclean.com 3 The Custom Care Modular Bathing Solution features three easy-to-change positions to promote proper support for your baby. www.toysrus.com
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4 Babyganics Diaper Rash Cream boasts vitamins A, D, and E, as well as plant-based ingredients. www.babyganics.com
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5 Whether you’re looking for a flashy accessory or a safety product, turn to 4id Fit Glow, which offers everything from headphones to shoelaces and armbands. www.4id.com
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28 I parentguide News I October 2014
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HEALTH 6 Get your fill of essential oils and nutrients from Carrington Farms Flax Paks, convenient snacks for on-the-go families. www.carringtonfarms.com 7 Natursutten offers your family an ecologically sustainable and natural rubber pacifier that’s softer than silicone and easy to clean. www.amazon.com
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8 Pack your child’s lunch with a healthy alternative to cookies and candy with Lance Whole Grain Crackers, available in Cheddar Cheese, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, and Peanut Butter flavors. www.lance.com
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9 Ditch traditional sweets this Halloween and pick up Surf Sweets, a non-GMO candy collection free of corn syrup, artificial food dyes, nuts, gluten, soy, and dairy. www.surfsweets.com 10 Tame the Flame from Healthy Mama Brand is a mint-flavored, calcium-rich antacid that relieves heartburn while being gentle on the body. www.healthymamabrand.com
8 Samantha Chan is the associate editor.
0 0 1 $ n i W
our Toward Y rty! a P y a d h t t Bir x e N s ’ d l i h C 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.
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Turn your child’s special day into something spectacular. your needs, your neighborhood
October 2014 I parentguide News I 29
Woman oman mom
For the Woman behind the Mom
According to the Prevent Blindness organization, women are more likely than men to face vision problems. A recent survey by the same eye health and safety organization also found that only 9 percent of women knew that they were at significantly greater risk of suffering permanent vision loss. While exercising, eating right, and regularly visiting your eye doctor are some of the most effective ways to help ward off vision issues, there are age-specific recommendations that may help, too. Peruse the guidelines for positive eye health below.
20s — Get in the habit of having annual comprehensive eye exams.
This helps establish baseline measures and enables you to form a relationship with your eye care professional. Computer and smartphone usage are particularly high at this age, so remember the 20-20-20 rule. Look at an object at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes while using digital devices. This helps minimize eye strain, visual fatigue, and headaches. It can also potentially reduce the effects caused by dangerous blue light emitted from digital devices.
30s — This age group should also follow the 20-20-20 rule and take
frequent breaks with computer use. Even if you have good vision and don’t require prescription glasses, consider getting eyeglass lenses made just for computer use or those that help block blue light to reduce eye strain. Also, pregnant women may want to increase water intake and use lubricating drops to keep eyes hydrated.
40s — At this time, many women (and men!) begin to experience
farsightedness, which is when focusing on objects close up becomes increasingly difficult. This means you’ll need glasses that magnify objects, also known as “readers.” In addition to readers, lubricating drops can help comfort the eyes. Long-lasting hydration is key in order to replace diminishing tear film mucus.
50s — Women in their 50s typically experience hormonal shifts that
may affect their eyesight. Getting your ocular surface examined and evaluated for dry eyes is recommended. And for those of you who have put off getting readers in your 40s, you’ll need to procure a pair as your arm most likely won’t be long enough to now accommodate reading. This is also the age range when women may begin seeing floaters and flashing lights, and they usually continue to experience diminished vision. Make sure you are visiting your eye doctor every year and keeping your prescription up to date. 30 I parentguide News I October 2014
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While I regularly see many of the above conditions in my patients, there are some more serious issues of which women should especially be aware.
Eye Trauma
A common injury from cosmetics is accidentally poking a mascara wand into the eye. While this scenario, along with getting other kinds of makeup in the eye, is uncomfortable and irritating, it may not necessarily result in serious injury. It’s important to use common sense when judging if you should receive urgent care. The best step is to check with your eye doctor, especially if you are experiencing persistent discomfort.
Cataracts
As the world’s leading cause of blindness, cataracts — or cloudy areas in the eyes’ lenses — typically appear in people older than 40. To help protect your vision, it’s important to wear sunglasses, eat healthy foods, and control your blood sugar. By age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Glaucoma
This condition causes damage to the optic nerve, resulting in the buildup of pressure behind the eye. It generally shows up after age 40 and worsens over time. While there are treatments to help symptoms and early detection can help slow the progression, there is no cure for glaucoma. Men and women alike can get it, and it tends to be an inherited disease.
Diabetes
Women are more at risk for certain health conditions that impact their vision, including diabetes. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 12 million women age 20 or older have diabetes. This condition increases the risk for developing eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy. People with diabetes also frequently experience light sensitivity, difficulty distinguishing colors in low lighting, and trouble driving at night. Routine visits to the eye doctor play a vital role in your overall health care. When you make them a priority, your peepers will be pleased. Dr. Stephanie Kirschbaum is a VSP Vision Care optometrist located in California. VSP Vision Care is one of the largest nonprofit vision benefits and services company in the United States. parentguidenews.com
Woman oman mLike omUs on Facebook For the Woman behind the Mom
by Samantha Chan
for Chances to WIN Exclusive Prizes
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Samantha Chan is the associate editor.
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October 2014 I parentguide News I 31
Nassau
Calendar of Events Queens
Manhattan
Westchester Open Houses October 21: Alcott School, 535 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, (914)6934443; 46 Fox Meadow Road, Scarsdale, (914)595-7551; 27 Crane Road, Scarsdale, (914)472-4404; adonegan@alcottschool.org, www.alcottschool.org, 9:30am-2pm.
October October 1-74
Mighty Microscope World,
October 1: Animal Songs and Stories with Miss Eileen, White Plains RuthLibrary, Keeler100 Memorial Li- White Plains, (914)422-1476, www. Public Martine Ave., brary, 276 Titicus Road, whiteplainslibrary.org. ChildrenNorth around 2.5 years old are invited to enjoySalem, specially chosen stories and sing-along songs about animals! Tick(914)669-5161, etswww.kellerlibrary.org. distributed 30 minutes before program. 7-7:40pm. Dis-
cover the common charac-
October 2: Teacher Appreciation Night, The Voracious Reader, 1997 teristics all living things Palmer Ave.,ofLarchmont, (914)630-4581, www.thevoraciousreader. under microscopes, com. Any and all educatorswhich welcome to this event that thanks teacherswill of all tutors, begrades, provided byhome the educators, and librarians! An array of books selected especially these individuals, along with discounts, library. Record yourfor findings suggestions from the newest books of the season, and lots of free goodand observations! Registraies, posters, and handouts from publishers are available. Light refreshtionwill preferred. ments be served.2pm. Registration is requested. 6:30pm. October 3: Tot Shabbat, JCC on the Hudson, 371 S., Broadway, Tar-
October 12 Sixth Annual Yorktown Festival and Street Fair, Commerce Street and Veterans Road, Downtown Yorktown, www.yorktownfestival.com. More than 250 vendors fill the streets, offering endless food, music, and fun. New to this year’s event is the New Car Show, which features 35 cars from the 2015 model year. 11am-5pm.
October 2014
rytown, (914)366-7898, www.jcconthehudson.org. Join Rabbi Lisa Izes in celebrating Shabbat with songs, stories, crafts and of course, challah! Activities are geared to children from birth to 5-years with an adult. The program continues every first Friday of the month. Advanced registration is appreciated, but drop-ins welcome. 4-4:45pm. October 4: Mighty Microscope World, Ruth Keeler Memorial Library, 276 Titicus Road, North Salem, (914)669-5161, www.kellerlibrary. org. Discover the common characteristics of all living things under microscopes, which will be provided by the library. Record your findings and observations! Registration preferred. 2pm. October 5: 11th Annual Harvest Fest, Stone Barns Center for Food and October 25Road, Pocantico Hills, (914)366-6200, www. Agriculture, 630 Bedford stonebarnscenter.org. This event is a daylong celebration and fundraiser Party Like it’s 1639!, for the center, and includes live music, a farmers’ market with delicious Museum, seasonalFairfield fare, hayrides, and more. Tickets are required. 10am-3pm.
370 Beach Road,
October 7: Crafternoons: Personalize Some School Stuff, White Plains Fairfield, Connecticut, Public Library, 100 Martine Ave., White Plains, (914)422-1476, www. www.fairfieldhistory. whiteplainslibrary.org. Children in grades 4-6 are invited to personalize org. Parents caresome school stuff withand tape, stickers, markers, and more. Bring a notegiversorare invited book, binder, other schoolto supplies, and get artistic! 4:30-5:30pm.
celebrate Fairfield’s 375th Birthday with festive cocktails, dinner, live and Club, entertainment, an auction, and a fabulous October 8: music Jr. Garden The Chappaqua Public Library, 195 S. cake! Call the babysitter and enjoy a night on Greeleybirthday Ave., Chappaqua, (914)238-4779, www.chappaqualibrary. org. Children in grades 2-4 are invited to prepare bulbs to brighten the town. 7-10:30pm.
October 8-14
your winter. Registration required. 4pm.
October 10-12: Sesame Street Live: Let’s Dance!, Westchester County Center, 198 Central Park Ave., White Plains, (914)995-4050, www.countycenter.biz. Bring the whole family down for this up-close, interactive experience that includes dance parties. Elmo uses his imagination to “Do the Robot,” Cookie teaches all ‘feets’ to dance, Abby leads a rhyming game, along with your other Sesame October 28 Street favorites! Tickets can be purchased at the box office or ticketmaster.com. 10:30am and 6:30pm.
Spooktacular Animal Adventure, WeeZee: The Science of
October 11:480 WagN.Your Tale! Road, Read to a Dog, Scarsdale Public LiPlay, Bedford Chappaqua, (914)752-2100, brary, 54 Olmstead Road, Scarsdale, (914)722-1300, www.scarswww.weezeeworld.com. Meet the creepy crawly animals dalelibrary.org. Independent readers can practice their reading skills that often frighten adults and children alike, and learn with a story-loving dog. Registration required, but not limited to more about the ones 3pm. that call the shadows and swamps Scarsdale Library cardholders.
home. Two age-appropriate sessions are offered. Kids
October Fall k-2 Festival, Greenburgh Nature Center, Dromore in 12: grades may attend 4:30-5:10pm, while99those in Road, grades Scarsdale, (914)813-1280, www.greenburghnaturecenter.org. 3-5 may attend 5:10-5:55pm. Come on down for scarecrow building, pumpkin carving, pumpkin painting, cider making, scavenger hunts, and more. Pre-register by October 11 for discounted passes. A limited number of passes are available. Event held rain or shine. 11am-3pm. October 13: Feeding Fun on Columbus Day!, Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale, (914)723-3470, www.greenburghnaturecenter.org. See what’s on the menu during mealtime at the Center’s live animal museum. Program is free with admission. 11am. 32 I parentguide News I October 2014
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October 12
October 15-21
Sixth Annual Yorktown Festival and Street Fair, Commerce Street and Veterans Road, Downtown Yorktown, October 16: Bookmunchers, Mount Kisco Library, 100 E. Main St., Mt. www.yorktownfestival.com. More than 250 vendors Kisco, (914)666-8041, www.mountkiscolibrary.org. Stop fill by this book theclub streets, offering endless food, music, and fun. to about for boys in 4th and 5th grades. Read great booksNew and talk this year’s the fellows.The New Car Show, them withevent other islocal book which for thisfeatures session is35 The Night Gardener by 2015 Jonathan Auxier. Pick up copies at the Children’s Refercars from the model year. 11am-5pm. ence Desk prior to the event. Registration is required. 4:30-5:30pm.
October 17: Fanwood’s Nightmare Manor: NYSC’s 4th Annual Haunted House, New York School for the Deaf, 555 Knollwood Road, White Plains, (914)949-7310, www.nysd.net. Visit what is known in Westchester as one of its scariest-kept secrets, with more than 45 live actors, terrifying special effects, and a twisted maze. Parental guidance is strongly suggested for children younger than age 12. 7-11pm.
October 28 Spooktacular Animal Adventure, WeeZee: The Science of Play, 480 N. Bedford Road, Chappaqua, (914)752-2100, www.weezeeworld.com. Meet the creepy crawly animals that often frighten adults and children alike, and learn more about the ones that call the shadows and swamps home. Two age-appropriate sessions are offered. Kids in grades k-2 may attend 4:30-5:10pm, while those in grades 3-5 may attend 5:10-5:55pm.
October 18: John Tartaglia’s ImaginOcean, Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St., Tarrytown, (877)840-0457, www.tarrytownmusichall.org. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind, live, black-light puppet show for kids of all ages. Tank, Bubbles, and Dorsel are three best friends who just happen to be fish, and they’re about to set out on a remarkable journey of discovery. 2pm. October 19: Heels and Wheels 5K and Kids Fun Run, Burke Rehabilitation Center, 785 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, (914)597-2848, www.burke. org. Runners and walkers of all abilities enjoy a race throughout Burke’s beautiful campus. And for the first time, following the 5K, there are races for children of all ages on the track. Halloween costumes welcome. 7:30 am. October 19: Birds of a Feather, Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale, (914)813-1280, www.greenburghnaturecenter.org. As wild birds fly overhead, stop by and meet resident birds up close, including some of the majestic birds of prey! This program is not to be missed! 2pm.
October 19 October 20: Music and Merriment, Yonkers Public Library, Crest-
wood Branch, 165K Thompson Heels and Wheels and KidsSt., Yonkers, (914)337-1500, www.ypl. org. Interactive stories and songs for children ages 1.5-4 years of age. Fun Run, Burke Rehabilitation No registration required. 11-11:30am. Center, 785 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, (914)597-2848, www.burke.org. Runners and walkers of all abilities may enjoy a race throughout Burke’s Octobercampus. 22: Open Book About Malala,the Mamaroneck Libeautiful And for Discussion the first time following 5K, brary, 136 Prospect Ave., Mamaroneck, (914)630-5875, www.mamathere are races for children of all ages on the track. Hallowronecklibrary.org. Teens are invited to discuss Malala, the girl who een costumes welcome. 7:30am. stood up for her education and became an international human rights
October 22-31
leader after she was shot in the head by the Taliban on her way to school in Pakistan in 2012. Open to Grades 6-12. 6:30pm.
October 23: Lights On Afterschool Day, Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill, (914)737-0847, http://fieldkids.wordpress.com. Children and parents are invited to a special celebration in honor of the annual Lights On Afterschool Day! Join in games, light refreshments, and a free book! Don’t miss the special Yoga for Parent and Child workshop at 6pm. 5:30pm. October 24: Halloween Spooktacular, Applause Westchester, 114 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, (914)835-2200, www.applauseny.com. Enjoy a slightly spooky good time with games, crafts, pumpkin decorating, a costume contest, a haunted house, and more. Reservations are required. 3:305pm: babies through age 4; 6-8pm: elementary and middle school ages. October 25: Party Like it’s 1639!, Fairfield Museum, 370 Beach Road, Fairfield, CT, www.fairfieldhistory.org. Parents and caregivers are invited to celebrate Fairfield’s 375th Birthday with festive cocktails, dinner, live music and entertainment, a live auction, and of course a fabulous birthday cake! Call the babysitter and enjoy a night on the town. 7-10:30pm. your needs, your neighborhood
October 28: Earring Making with Joan Lloyd, Mount Kisco Library, 100 E. Main St., Mt. Kisco, (914)666-8041, www.mountkiscolibrary. org. Learn to make earrings while helping a good cause. For every pair of earrings you make, make another pair that will be donated to a battered women’s shelter. The event takes place upstairs in the large meeting room. 4-5:30pm. October 30: Halloween Fun, The Chappaqua Public Library, 195 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua, (914)238-4779, www.chappaqualibrary.org. Children age 4-6 are invited to dress up and enjoy stories and songs for Halloween. Costumes are not required, of course. Registration required. 4pm.
MB COE K 10_14
All Month Long
October 4-November 9: The Great Jack O’ Lantern Blaze, Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 S. Riverside Ave., Croton-on-Hudson, (914)3666900, www.hudsonvalley.org/events/blaze. Don’t miss the area’s biggest, most exciting and electrifying Halloween event that features more than 5,000 individually hand-carved, illuminated Jack O’ Lanterns in an elaborate walk-through experience. Entrance by timed admission.
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 October 2014 I parentguide News I 33
UPDATE
by Donald McDermott
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10 1 Keep your bundle of joy warm, cozy, and safe all year with the moon cocoon wearable duvet. www.niniandpumpkin.com/products
6 Easy to clean, 100-percent silicone, and non-toxic, the animalshaped Baby Bibs from Ulubulu are a perfect gift for new parents. www.ulubulu.com/products
2 Welcome your new baby with cuddly organic clothes from Wee Urban. Its Bring Me Home Gift Sets offer unique, genderneutral options designed to keep little ones snugly and warm. www.weeurban.com
7 Designed with both baby and mommy in mind, the multi-functional nursing blanket from Me Beau Bébé comes with various features to maximize comfort, privacy, and functionality. wwww.mebeaubebe.com
3 Golden Thread’s heirloom-worthy jewelry comes in styles for one and all. Its Baby & Child collection features kid-appropriate sizes. www.goldenthreadshop.com
8 Difrax, the well-known European baby products company, has a new creation that is at the forefront of orthodontic pacifiers. Its 3-stage pacifier system features bold, colorful, and stylish patterns designed to meet baby’s needs at every age. www.difrax.com
4 The affordable, high-quality Advanced Double Electric Breast Pump by Evenflo features a PerfectlyPure™ design that prevents milk backup. www.evenflofeeding.com
9 The Angelcare® AC 605 Movement & Sound Monitor comes with an under-the-mattress sensor pad and two state-of-the-art Parent Units for added reassurance that baby is safely asleep. www.angelcarebaby.com
5 Hypo-allergenic and fully supportive, the San Diego Bebe EcoNursing Pillow offers comfort for both mom and baby. www.doubleblessings.com
10 A leader in universal compact electronic gear for smartphones, tablets, and digital and action cameras is proud to present the iStabilizer Monopod and Bluetooth Shutter Remote. www.istabilizer.com
Go to www.parentguidenews.com for a chance to win these great prizes! 34 News I October 2014 SKI parentguide 10/14
Donald McDermott is the managing editor.
HANDWRITING HEROES Back To Basics Handwriting Specialist
Abby Gitlin, MS, OTR/L trained to help develop: Fine motor strength and coordination Visual perceptual skills Proper letter formation Language and literacy readiness Approaches used: Handwriting Without Tears (HWT) Preventing Academic Failure (PAF)
REMINDER **Make an appointment with abbygitlin@gmail.com (516) 457 - 1821
“Structured handwriting lessons lead to improved writing performance, academic success, and overall student self-esteem.� 1
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Graham and Harris, 2005; Graham, Harris, and Fink 2000; Berninger et al. 1997; Jones and Christensen 1999.