OCTOBER 2013
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Party Time
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Sensory Processing Disorders How to help
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contents
table of
October 2013 Volume 30 • Number 10
C
Birthday Coverage
Fall
Birthday on a Budget................ 28
P. 28
Birt
A great bash doesn’t have to break the bank.
C
Birthday Directory................. 30
Don
This
Party places and entertainers for the happiest of occasions.
Hea
Insig
Special Needs
Tra
Dest
Sensory Processing Disorders........... 18 Does your child have one?
Upd
Special Needs and Health & Fitness Directory........................................ 20
In S
Experts and services catering to family wellness and special needs.
Health & Fitness
Esse
Plan
B
P. 18
Wh
A com
Nutrition Q & A: Round 2....................................... 16 With Stacey Antine, M.S., R.D.
Increase Fertility.................................................... 52 Tips to help you thrive and improve your health.
Features
Homemade Halloween.............. 14 Create characters and costumes.
Taking to Tantrums....................... 46
Ar
The case for a good cry.
Current Events............................... 48 P. 14
Talking to kids about today’s tough topics.
Shaving at 35 Weeks...................... 50
And other unexpected adventures in pregnancy.
Adve
Time Management.......................................................... 54 A layered approach.
Submiss PAREN reserves ISSN089 213-884
Feeling Good, Looking Good......................................... 55 Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous. I parentguide News I October 2013
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COUNTRYSIDE
Registe r Now Fo r 2013/2 014 Under New School Ownership Year! An Education Where Children Thrive Under the Guidance of Great Teachers in an Environment That Stimulates Creativity and Individual Potential!
MONTESSORI SCHOOL
ious • Spac und Playgro rooms e Class • Larg tudent to S • Low r Ratio Teache
Toddler Classrooms 18 months - 3 years 3-6 Year Classrooms
After S cho Progra ol ms Monda y, T ues day & Thur sday • A proven system celebrating 100 years of practice, research and worldwide recognition • Fully affiliated with the American Montessori Society since 1998 • Our fully equipped spacious classrooms offer the most enriched curriculum available for 18 months - 6 years • Early drop-off / extended day available
354 Lakeville Road • Great Neck, NY • 516-466-8422
www.CMSGN.com
your needs, your neighborhood
October 2013 I parentguide News I
contents contents
We Buy, Sell and Trade table Gently Usedof Kids’ Stuff!
table of
Bring in your nearly new kids’ stuff, and we’ll pay you cash on the spot for all items accepted
HClothing
• Infant To Size 10-12 (0-18 months must have tags) • Play Clothes • DresswearOctober • Outerwear
HShoes and Accessories
• Casual and Dress Shoes
• Sleepwear 2013 Volume 30 • Number 10
October 2013 Volume 30 • Number 10
WE ACCEPT ALL SEASON APPAREL
Contests
HFurniture HEquipment Birthday Coverage • Changing Tables & Dressers • Bassinets & Cradles
HBooks and Toys
• Children’s Books & DVDs • Infant-Preschool Toys • Outdoor Toys • Puzzles
P. 28
• High Chairs & Swings • Gates • Exersaucers • Pack N Plays • Bouncy Seats • Booster Seats (table) A great bash doesn’t • Jumperoos
PROOF
Fall into Autumn Photo Contest.................................. 26
Birthday on a Budget................ 28
Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 60
Clothing must be in good condition, of current style, freshly laundered and to neatlybreak organizedthe in boxes or have bank. other folding containers. Toys, equipment and furniture items must include all original parts, be clean and in good working condition and meet all industry safety standards. Because the safety of children is a top priority at Once Upon A Child, we are unable to purchase recalled or retrofitted products. We reserve the right to refuse items based on condition, current inventory levels and past experience.
www.parentguidenews.com Birthday • 212-213-8840 Directory................. 30
Used Items Buy Back Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm
Health............................................................................. 56 Insight and items for your family’s care.
Special Needs Kid’s Stuff With Previous Experience
Travel............................................................................... 57
™
Destinations, product picks and getaway tips.
Sensory Processing Disorders........... 18 516-579-4200 Does your child have one? 1089 Hicksville Rd., Seaford ¼ Mile North of Southern State Parkway (exit 29N, Rte. 107) Special STORE Needs and Health &9Fitness HOURS: Monday-Saturday am-6pm & Sunday 11am-5pm Directory........................................ 20
Update............................................................................. 58 Essential products and information for your brood.
In Season........................................................................ 66 Plan fall fun for all.
Experts and services catering to family wellness and special needs.
Bonus
Brookville Center for Children’s Services P. 18
Health & Fitness
Day Care and Early Childhood Program
What’s Happening......................................................... 60
A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, performances and events.
Nutrition Q & A: Round 2....................................... 16 With Stacey Antine, M.S., R.D.
Cover Credit: www.chasing-fireflies.com
Increase Fertility.................................................... 52 Tips to help you thrive and improve your health.
Publisher Steve Elgort Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina
Features
Managing Editor Donald McDermott
Homemade Halloween.............. 14
Associate Editor Samantha Chan
Create characters and costumes.
Editorial Intern Kristan Morley
Taking to Tantrums....................... 46
The case for a good cry. REGISTER Events............................... 48 N W! Current Talking to kids about today’s tough topics.
Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski
Manhasset Location Leeds Child Development Center
P. 14
Accounting Teresa Pinargote
Serving Families with Infants, Toddlers and Preschool Children
Contributing Writers Stacey Antine, Julia Darrenkamp, Kim Guiley, K.T. Korngold, Kelsey Layer, Victoria Maizes, Phyllis Ohr, Teresa Tayler, Louise Weadock
New Hyde Park Location
Avenue Shaving atMarcus 35 Weeks...................... 50 Serving Families with Infants, Toddlers
Infants
6 weeks to 18 months
Toddlers
18 months to 36 months
unexpected in pregnancy. and Preschooladventures Children
Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti
Westbury Location on SUNY Old Westbury Campus
Advertising Sales Representatives Cindy DiCaprio, Karin Mikelis, Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, Jennifer Serpi, Rena Spangler, Felicia Stafford
Serving Families with Infants, Toddlers and Preschool Children
Brookville Location Children’s Education Center
Serving Preschool Children, Time Management.......................................................... 54 Ages 3-5 Old Only Preschool 3 years to 5 years
A layered approach.
Generous Sibling Discounts
PGTV Producer Beth Elgort
For more information Call
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.
(516) 686-4496
Feeling Good, Looking Good......................................... 55 www.brookvillecenter.org An affiliate of AHRC Nassau County and the North Shore-LIJ Health System Products and accessories to make your life extra fabulous.
I parentguide News I October 2013
Don’t Miss....................................................................... 10 This month’s entertainment and activities.
Party places and Visit our websiteentertainers at for the www.onceuponachildseaford.com happiest of occasions.
t Full and half-day schedules t Licensed by New York State Office of Child and Family Services t Masters Level Teachers/ Licensed and other And Certified Staff t High Staff to Child Ratios t Reasonable Rates t New York State Learning Standards t Play-based, Educational Curriculum
Columns
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“Schechter exposed me to a wonderful world filled with knowledge, Judaism, tikkun olam and love...� — Danielle A. Schechter High School ‘10, Cornell University ‘14
open house Parents and students are Cordially invited
Excellence
Community
Possibilities
ElEmEntary School
Wednesday, November 20 @ 7:30 p.m.
Barbara Lane Jericho, NY 11753
middlE School
Wednesday, November 13 @ 7:00 p.m.
6 Cross Street Williston Park, NY 11596
high School
Sunday, October 20 @ 10:00 a.m.
6 Cross Street Williston Park, NY 11596
RSVP to:
Dr. Tracy Kaplowitz
Director of Admissions and Community Engagement
Tel. 516.935.1441, Ext. 1115 admissions@schechterli.org PlEasE visiT us aT: www.schechterli.org
FOllOW us ON FacEbOOk: facebook.com/ssds.sshsli
PARENTGUIDE News has an amazing new online concept, and you could be part of the action. We have immediate openings for three Advertising Sales Executives who want to do what they love. That’s all we can say at this time. If you are curious about this opportunity and are looking for a career change or part-time employment, please e-mail a cover letter and resume to hr@parentguidenews.com.
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your needs, your neighborhood
October 2013 I parentguide News I
Letter from the Editor
U
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 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 win great prizes. disruptions of the senses that could be at play. Weadock In between attending Halloween parties, you may find expands on the different types of sensory disorders and yourself also having to plan a fete. Discover the latest and how you can help your child with them. greatest in party entertainers, venues, and services in our And for bonus content like wonderful giveaways, be sure jam-packed Birthday Directory. PARENTGUIDE News to peruse the PARENTGUIDE News Facebook page. wants to make your next celebration a smashing success! With “Birthday on a Budget” by Kelsey Layer, you’ll not Have a wonderful autumn, only be able to plan a memorable gathering, but you’ll also gain ideas on how to pull it off responsibly.
PROOF
PROOF
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Toddler, Nursery, Pre-K & Kindergarten Programs CHOOSE BETWEEN CHOOSE BETWEEN FULLFull ORÊ Ê 9Ê- -- " -]Ê or Half Day Sessions, withÊ " a choiceOF of " Along Ê7 / Ê 3 or 5 days a week 3 ORÊxÊ 9-ÊAÊ7
FALL FESTIVAL OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, OCT. 20th • 11:00AM - 3:00PM
PUMPKIN-PICKING, FACE-PAINTING, RIDES, MAGICIAN/BALOONIST, ARTS & CRAFTS, REFRESHMNTS, TOUR THE CAMP
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October 2013 I parentguide News I
Don’t
MISS
October by Donald McDermott
Heroes Galore
Flying Free
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.
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.
A Halloween Treat
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.
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.
It’s a Snap
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
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.
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.
Game On
A Peak Performance
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.
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.
10 I parentguide SK-Oct. ‘13News I October 2013
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October 2013 I parentguide News I 11
An Evening Fundraiser
October Two Days of Sales
Eisenhower Park, 1899 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, is the ideal place for families during An Evening of Tasting and Giving on October 7. Money raised will be used to benefit the Cancer Center for Kids at Winthrop University Hospital, pediatric specialty practices at other hospitals, and scholarship funds. For times and more information, call (516)9354510 or visit www.michaelmagrofoundation.com.
Fair for Families
The town of Garden City comes alive with amazing sights and sounds when the Garden City Street Fair is presented on October 26. Open to visitors of all ages from 10am-3pm, the celebration includes trackless trains, a money cube, activities for kids, live entertainment, handmade crafts and gift ideas, and much more. Pay a visit to the street fair at 190 Seventh St. between Franklin and Hilton avenues, Garden City. Call (516)746-7724 or log onto www.nassaucountycraftshows.com for more information.
by Donald McDermott
Uncover a totally unique destination where consumers of all ages can interact and take advantage of bargains galore during the Nassau County Craft and Gift Show at the Schoolhouse Green on Foxhurst Road in Oceanside. Presented on October 12 and 13 from 10am-6pm, the twoday extravaganza features an array of handmade jewelry, home decor, clothing, hand-blown glass, and food. Find out more by paying a visit to www.nassaucountycraftshows.com.
ProoF Journey to Oz
Proof
Halloween Hijinks
Get into the “spiritâ€? of the season by The Broadhollow 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 paying a visit to the Haunted HallowTheatre Company, een event at the Old Bethpage Vil700 Hempstead to: FAx # lage Restoration, 1303 Round Swamp Turnpike, Elmont, Road, Old Bethpage. Presented during takes audiences of From: iSSue DAte:on October 19, 20, 26, two weekends all ages on a magiand 27, the festivities include a moncal musical journey with The Wizard of Oz on October 26 and November ster scavenger hunt, spooky tales, carvPlease call or fax your comments and/or oK. 2. Tag along with Dorothy and all of her friends as ing demonstrations, broom making for they venture to the Emerald City to find a brain, a witches, and much more! Reserve a SigNAture oF APProvAl: heart, courage, and a way back home. Shows are at spot for your family today by contact2pm. Call (516)775-4420 or go to www.broadhollow.org ing the Old Bethpage Village Restoration at (516)572-8400. for tickets and more.
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
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Any Individual Lesson. Mention promo code PG5. Expires 11/1/13. Certain restrictions apply. Call for details
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(516) 375-8492 • ProfessorPedals.com parentguidenews.com
October Reel It In
Spend some quality time with your little ones this month when the Fall Freshwater Fishing & Children’s Festival comes to the Hempstead Lake State Park in West Hempstead on October 19. This family-oriented fall event features outdoor exhibits from local fishing clubs, fly fishing instruction, hands-on demonstrations, loaner fishing rods, face painting, pony rides, and a magic show. For times, directions, and more information, call (516)766-1029.
Proof
Time to Celebrate
Still Wigglin’
After more than two decades entertaining kids around the world, The Wiggles are back on October 4! Aside from the usual music and merriment, the Taking Off tour introduces three, brand-new cast members. The Wiggles take off at 6:30pm on the stage of the NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury. For tickets and more, call (800)745-3000 or log onto www.specialevents.livenation.com.
Proof
Family Festivities
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 Hicks Nurseries, 100 Jericho Turnpike
The beauty of Eisenhower Park in East Meadow provides the perfect backdrop for the 2nd Annual Oktoberfest on October 5 and 6, noon-5pm. Visitors of all ages are invited to come out and enjoy two days filled with live entertainment, traditional German food and drink, and much more. Families can obtain additional information by calling (516)572-0200.
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ESPTIVAL L FM FACLA USSEE- 3:00PM OU PNENHthHO O M 11 • OPE, OCT. 20 b:0e0rA 2A2INTING, SUNDAY nd
G, FACE-P eptem uMnP.,KINS-PICKIN LO:0 , RIDES, S N0ISpTm PU A B / Nm 3 O ESHMNTS, IA IC a G 0 A M11:0 AFTS, REFR R ARTS & C E CAMP TOUR TH
Westbury, celebrates the season by welcoming families to the Fall Festival. Open through October 31, the annual celebration includes hayrides, farm animals, a cider tent, roasted corn, popcorn, fudge apples, and autumn flowers. Families are also encouraged to stop in for the Pumpkin Carving Contest on October 12. Questions? Call (516)334-0066.
Mysterious Museum
The Tackapausha Museum, 2215 Washington Ave., Seaford, celebrates the season by hosting the annual Haunted Halloween Party on October 16. Beginning at 1pm, the day features animal presentations, crafts, games and more. Costumes are welcome and encouraged. Contact the museum with inquiries at (516)571-7443. Donald McDermott is the managing editor.
Designed SUCCESS Engineered W aste FUN !
The years between 3 and 12 are among a child’s most formative.
What your child does during the two months of summer can make Developing strong social skills, enhanced self and self esteem along with an appreciation for positive character traits and values are the building blocks for success later in life. Not every day camp is designed the same — not every day camp runs the same.
Academic Enrichment Program.
Early Enrollment Incentives
516.676.0904 • NorthShoreDay Camp.com 85 Crescent Beach Road • Glen Cove, NY 11542
your needs, your neighborhood
October 2013 I parentguide News I 13
By JulIa darrenkamp
I
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. 14 I parentguide News I October 2013
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Fun & Exciting Programs Strengthen Skills in Science & Technology Teamwork-Oriented Environment
ITALIAN
Language Littles
Benvenuti!
Welcome!
Fall Session Begins in October!
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45 Minute Language Immersion Workshops
Bricks4Kidz programs are kid-tested and educator-approved to deliver valuable learning experiences that correlate to a variety of cross-disciplinary curriculum objectives. Students will strengthen their knowledge and skill level in the areas of science and technology while using their creativity in a fun, teamwork-oriented environment.
• Music & Movement, Games • Storytelling, Puppetry • Arts & Crafts & Much More!
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 After Schoo l Enric Birthday Pa hment Camps • Fie rties ld Trips
NOW OPEN!
The Bricks 4 Kidz Creativity Center 49 Ira Road • Syosset • 516-364-7100 www.bricks4kidz.com/northshore
Family Owned & Operated Since 1979 Celebrating 35 Years!
Classes held at: Wind ’n Willow Preschool
1201 North Broadway • Massapequa, NY
For more info, call 631-957-3321 or visit italianlanguagelittles.com
Come Grow With Us
Growing Tree Nursery School Licensed by NYS Office of Children & Family Services
Traditional Preschool & Enrichment Registered with the NYS Dept. of Education
Flexible 2, 3, 4 & 5 Day Programs Ages 2 to 5 Half-Day Sessions (9am-11:45am / 9am-1pm / 9am-2pm)
New Apple Computer Lab 140 East Broadway, Roslyn, NY 11576
Phone: (516) 621-9009 www.growingtreenurseryschool.com your needs, your neighborhood
We Offer Classes for Children Ages 2 and Up.
Experience the Fun & Excitement of Learning Italian!
Growing Tree North
• Excellent Retention of Our Certified Teachers • All Staff First-Aid & CPR Certified • Nurturing Environment • Dedicated Staff Licensed by NYS Office of • Secure Building Access Children & Family Services • Air-Conditioned Classrooms Extended Day Nursery School • Fully-Enclosed Playground & Indoor Gym Registered with the NYS Dept. of Education • Foreign Language Lessons Flexible 2, 3, 4 & 5 Day Programs • American Sign Language • Fun With Phonics Infants 3 months to 5 years • Music & Movement School Hours: 7:00am-6:00pm • Arts & Crafts • Monthly Themed Activities Early Childhood Library & Events Science & Nature Room • Diapers Welcome
Handwriting Without Tears
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275 Warner Avenue, Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
Phone: (516) 625-9080 www.growingtreenorth.com
October 2013 I parentguide News I 15
Nutrition Q & A ROUND TWO
Y
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.
16 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!
Proof
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.
Proof
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
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 17
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. 18 I parentguide News I October 2013
SK-Oct. ‘13
parentguidenews.com
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 Challenge to touch:
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.
PROOF
The child’s skin may be super-sensitive (ouch!) or hyposensitive (can’t feel a thing). Some children can’t tolerate certain textures or people touching them. The hypersensitive child is cau419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 tious, delicate, and fearful. He doesn’t mingle in a group. Hyposensitive children may not realize they’re in danger because they don’t feel. TO: FAX # 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. FROM: ISSUE DATE: Hypersensitive children do well with squeeze machines, cocoon swings, bubble baths, warm water, and creams.
Please call or fax your comments and/or OK.
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 OF APPROVAL: nonprofit, Sensory Bullets,SIGNATURE for the purposes of researching the equipment featured at WeeZee gym. Learn more at www.weezeeworld.com.
Dr. Mindy Pediatric Dentistry Dentistry For Pediatric, Adolescent & Special Needs Patients state-of-the-art facility equipped with the
latest technology modern, kid friendly environment with
video games in every room reduced digital x-rays forradiation exposure
evening & weekend appointments available to make an appointment call (516) 869-9500 Most Insurance Plans Accepted Toward Payment
Mindy Homer, D.D.S. 800 Community Drive • Manhasset, NY 11030 www.doctor-mindy.com
your needs, your neighborhood
October 2013 I parentguide News I 19
Special Needs and Health & Fitness Services Close to Home Parent/Child Resources
ADHD Parent Trainer Elaine Lerner, MSW, CSW 233 7th St., Suite 200, Garden City, NY 11530 (516)487-0636 elaine@adhdparenttrainer.com www.adhdparenttrainer.com Is your child having behavioral problems at home, in school or 419 Park New York, NY 10016 212-213-8840 Fax 212-447-7734 in Avenue social South, settings? ADHD Parent• Trainings are •forming in Long Island. Elaine Lerner, MSW, CSW, and ADHD specialist will offer training for parents of children o: FAx # with attention problems using the Russell Barkley, Ph.D., and Ross Green, Ph.D., methods of behavioral management. ADHD is one of the most common rom: iSSuedisorders DAte: affecting up to 5-7 childhood developmental behavioral percent of the school age population and accounting for the largest proportion of children referred to mental health programs in this country. give your child a better PleaseLearn call ortechniques fax yourto comments and/or oK.chance of success in school, at home and in social settings. Her goal as a clinician is to empower parents to take charge of the demanding igNAture care oF APProvAl: of these children in a way that ensures the health of the child individually and the entire family collectively. Elaine Lerner, MSW, CSW, received her master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University and has over 16 years of experience in the
Proof
school system as a social worker. She has trained with Russell A. Barkley, Ph.D., and Ross Green, Ph.D. Call (516)487-0636 or visit www.adhdparenttrainer.com to register.
ProoF
Special Needs Hagedorn Little Village School, The
Jack Joel Center for Special Children• 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com 750 Hicksville Road, Seaford, NY 11783 (516)520-6058 information@littlevillage.org www.littlevillage.org For more than 40 years, The Hagedorn Little Village School, Jack Joel Center for Children (HLVS) has provided the finest educational and therapeutic services for infants and children up to 11 years old with a wide range of developmental delays. The mission of HLVS is to facilitate children with special needs in achieving their highest potential. HLVS provides early intervention, preschool and school-age services in the home, nursery school, daycare, on site and in center-based classrooms in its state-of-the-art facility. Services may include: special education, speech-language therapy, occupational and physical therapy, psychological and social
“A Special Place for Learning for the Special Child” 750 Hicksville Road Seaford, NY 11783
516-520-6058 www.littlevillage.org
• Evaluations • Early Intervention (Birth-3) • SEIT/related Services • ABA Home Programs • Special Education Classes: - Developmental Groups (2-3) - Pre-School (3-5) - School-Age (5-11) - Inclusion • Support Services for Families
Funded and Regulated by Nassau County (NCDOH) and Suffolk County (SCDOH) Departments of Health, NYS, NYS ED Department Early Intervention (EI) and Committee for Special Education (CPSE) services are for children who have or are suspected of having a developmental delay or disability. Evaluations must be referred by NCDOH/SCDOH for EI and/or to the local school district for CPSE. Services are provided based on an individual child’s eligibility as established by NYSDOH and/or NYSED and local government at no direct cost to parents. Parents are responsible for fees/costs associated with childcare.
20 I parentguide News I October 2013
If your child is not doing what other kids the same age are doing— ask questions…and get answers.
Call us at 516-731-5588 (press 6) www.mksalomon.com
moving • behaving •
The Hagedorn Little Village School, Jack Joel Center for Special Children, is a not-for-profit program that provides services for infants and children up to 11 years of age with learning, language and social delays, motor impairments and autism with no direct cost to families:
playing • talking • smiling
walking • eating • learning
info@mksalomon.com
125 E. Bethpage Rd., Plainview NY 11803 The Early Intervention program is funded by NYS & county governments for children birth to 3 suspected of having a developmental disability or delay. Services are authorized by the county. The CPSE program is funded & regulated by the NYS Education Department, county and your local school district for children 3-5. Services for both programs are provided at no direct cost to families for children who meet eligibility guidelines.
listening • sharing • asking parentguidenews.com
Special needs & Health & Fitness DIRECTORY work services, and SEIT and audiological services. Additionally, comprehensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs are provided for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. Many additional services are also offered at HLVS, including multidisciplinary evaluations, parent and me classes, and parent and sibling support groups. For more information on HLVS programs and services, call (516)520-6058 or check the website: www. littlevillage.org.
Please call or fax your comments and/or oK.
iSSue DAte:
FAx #
419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734
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J.M. Ladge Speech & Hearing Center C.W. Post Campus/Long Island University Northern Boulevard, Brookville, NY 11548 (516)299-2437 joyce.rubentein@liu.edu www.liu.edu/cwpost/ladge The C.W. Post J.M. Ladge Speech & Hearing Center serves as a complete diagnostic and therapeutic facility providing speech, language and audiological services for children as well as adults with communication disorders. All services are offered at reasonable rates during day and evening hours. A full range of services include evaluation and treatment of articulation and phonological disorders and language and language learning difficulties, including difficulty with auditory processing and phonemic awareness, stuttering, aphasia and voice disorders. The Center offers accent reduction services for adults and students, stroke rehabilitation programs and groups for children focused on listening, reading readiness and delayed speech/language development. Individual feeding and swallowing services are available, as are mealtime play and language play groups, for those from birth through age 5. For further information, contact Dr. Joyce Rubenstein, Ph.D., director of the Ladge Speech & Hearing Center at C.W. Post, joyce.rubenstein@ liu.edu.
SigNAture oF APProvAl:
From:
• Establish and maintain friendships • Share space effectively • Initiate and maintain conversations • Understand the hidden meaning of spoken messages • Interpret social cues • Take in another person’s point of view • Pay attention and stay focused • Work in groups • Predict outcomes and solve problems • Comprehend concepts underlying pictures/stories/assignments • Set boundaries • Organize school tasks theSe difficultieS Are often ASSociAted with: • PDD-NOS • ADHD/ADD • Asperger’s Syndrome • Non-verbal Learning • Other Social Challenges Disability • High Functioning Autism
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to:
Marion K. Salomon & Associates 125 East Bethpage Road, Plainview, NY 11803 (516)731-5588 www.mksalomon.com Marion K. Salomon & Associates believes early diagnosis and treatment are important in improving children’s confidence and competence in all areas. This is a caring group of professionals with many years of experience in working with infants and children of all ages. Marion K. Salomon & Associates makes every effort to enhance your child’s development and to respond quickly and sensitively to your concerns as parents and caregivers. Its goal is to provide prompt accurate evaluations, effective treatment and support for families in Long Island, Queens and Brooklyn. Services offered are: speech and language pathology, Prompt, special education, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), physical and occupational therapies, nutritional counseling, psychological and social work services. Marion K. Salomon & Associates is known for its accurate and perceptive autism diagnostic evaluations. If your child receives home-based services, Marion K. Salomon & Associates will go to wherever your child is; at home, in school, at daycare, etc. Marion K. Salomon & Associates also offers services at its Plainview clinic, including parent and child groups and play and social groups. Marion K. Salomon & Associates adds new options all the time. Please check the website for information about clinic services, groups, trainings and workshops.
A SociAl leArning ProgrAm deSigned for children who find it hArd to:
Steps to Socialization (s2s) 13 South Bayles Ave., Port Washington, NY 11050 (516)767-0266 info@s2sny.com www.s2sny.com Is your child left out of playdate invitations? Does your child sit on the sidelines at recess? Steps to Socialization (s2s) is a your needs, your neighborhood
StePS to SociAlizAtion 13 South Bayles Ave. • Port washington, nY 11050
t 516.767.0266 • f 516.767.4566 www.s2sny.com October 2013 I parentguide News I 21
From:
iSSue DAte:
Special needs & Health & Fitness DIRECTORY
Please call program or fax for your comments and/or oK.with social social learning children who have difficulty interactions. Steps to Socialization’s highly trained staff guides stuin groups of 3-4, in learning the skills required to develop and SigNAture dents, oF APProvAl: maintain friendships, interpret social cues and work in groups. Skills taught include predicting what someone else is thinking about, how behavior impacts on others, and how to be part of a group. Using targeted activities and role playing, students are equipped with the skills needed to navigate the social world. The program is for children with average to above-average cognitive skills in grades 1 through 8. s2s teaches children how to think socially, step by step. Vincent Smith School 322 Port Washington Boulevard, Port Washington, NY 11050 (516)365-4900 www.vincentsmithschool.org The Vincent Smith School is well-known for its individualized program
ProoF
New LOW COST FEEDING,
for reluctant learners and learning disabled students in grades 4-12. VSS has a history of excellence dating back to 1924. Located on four and a half acres in suburban Port Washington, Vincent Smith School is a private day school, serving students in Nassau, Suffolk, and Queens Counties in New York. It offers students differentiated instruction in small supportive classes. Students experience academic success, emotional growth and social acceptance. More than 83 percent of graduates go on to college. Vincent Smith School is chartered by the New York State Board of Regents as an independent, nonprofit institution and is accredited by the New York State Association of Independent Schools. It takes pride in being a place where it’s okay to learn differently. The Vincent Smith School is open to all without regard to race, creed, or national origin.
ProoF
Health & Fitness
Are You LANGUAGE PLAY Jodi Guttenberg, D.D.S., and Associates, Pediatric Dentistry South, New & York, NY 10016 •Dr. 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 Worried About 419 Park Avenue 111 North Park Ave., Rockville Centre, NY 11570 GROUPS Your Child’s Speech, (516)678-7422 FAx # your child know proper tooth-brushing? Are you concerned that thumbDoes Language orto:Hearing? sucking, pacifier or bottle use is continuing too long? Pediatric dentist Jodi
Complete Speech, Language and Hearing Evaluation and Therapeutic From: Center for Children & Adults
Guttenberg iSSue DAte: and her associates can help. They recommend that children visit
• Reasonable Rates For more information call: • Infant, Toddlers and School Age Children Dr. Joyce Rubenstein, Director SigNAture oF APProvAl: • Day & Evening Hours 516-299-2437 email: joyce.rubenstein@liu.edu • Children’s Eating and Chatting Groups L.I.U. • C.W. Post • Brookville • Individual & Group Therapy
dental health. They also provide crowns, root canals and fillings for even the youngest of their patients— they’ve seen cavities in patients as young as 18 months old. Often local anesthesia is sufficient for these procedures, and they try to avoid putting children “out” if at all possible. They have a “tell, show, do”
the dentist for the first time at 2 years of age, and they encourage parents to
be in the room whenever it’s possible. During their first visit, they examine Ladge Speech & Hearing Center the child, and/or clean the child’s Please call or fax your comments oK. teeth and administer a fluoride treatment. They’ll at C.W. Post also discuss the child’s diet, especially if there’s evidence that it’s impacting
ng iALizi sPEC LEs CouP D H D in A sHiPs AT i o n L E r &
SEND A PARENT TO SCHOOL
n
ADHD PARENT TRAINING
Is your child having problems paying attention, focusing or managing their behavior? If so, attend a training! • Basic Behavioral Management Parents of children ages 4-10
• Specialized Adolescent Training
ADo E W soC LEsCEn iAL T Wor sKiLLs & KsH oPs
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Parents of children ages 11-17
• Includes Educational Accommodations For Home & School
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Elaine Lerner, MSW, CSW, ADHD Parent Trainer CALL
(516) 487-0636
Enroll online at www.ADHDParentTrainer.com 22 I parentguide News I October 2013
parentguidenews.com
Special needs & Health & Fitness DIRECTORY approach, which helps to dispel the fear of the unknown, and their specialized training helps them to be empathetic with children and to understand their needs. They accept insurance as partial payment. Call for more information. Dr. Jodi Guttenberg is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist. Dr. Mindy Homer Pediatric Dentistry 800 Community Drive, Suite 200, Manhasset, NY 11030 (516)869-9500 www.doctor-mindy.com Did you know that approximately 40 percent of children have cavities by the time they reach kindergarten, and it is now recommended that children see a dentist no later their first birthday? Dr. Mindy knows that dental visits in early childhood can prevent cavities. Dr. Mindy earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery at Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. She continued her training at Columbia University New York Presbyterian Hospital, where she earned her specialty degree in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Mindy is board certified and provides the best dental care to pediatric, adolescent and special needs patients. Dr. Mindy’s mission is to make the dental experience fun and anxiety-free for the whole family. She believes in educating parents and children in cavity prevention. She takes the time to understand the needs of your child and family, and she provides individualized treatment plans to address them. Dr. Mindy’s office is a reflection of her philosophy. It offers a modern, kid-friendly environment with video games in every room. She has digital x-rays to reduce the amount of radiation exposure to your child. Her warm and courteous staff will welcome you with a smile at each appointment. Call today to schedule an appointment or visit www.doctor-mindy.com for more information. Weekend and evening appointments are available. Fidelis Care (888)FIDELIS / (888)343-3547 www.fideliscare.org In New York State, there are more than 343,000 children younger than
your needs, your neighborhood
19 without health insurance. It’s a shocking statistic considering there is free or low-cost coverage available to nearly every child younger than 19, regardless of family income, through the state’s Child Health Plus program. Child Health Plus with Fidelis Care offers children comprehensive coverage, including regular checkups, hospitalization, emergency treatment, lab tests, X-rays, eye care, well-child visits, immunizations, preventive care and more. Through partnerships with providers and local communities, Fidelis Care works to foster a healthier future for children and their families. Fidelis Care offers a spectrum of health and wellness programs and services, such as AsthmaCare, DiabetesCare and BabyCare, with a special focus on health awareness and prevention activities. Fidelis Care serves more than 783,000 members in 59 counties statewide through a growing network of more than 51,000 providers. Individuals seeking affordable health insurance coverage should contact Fidelis Care toll-free at (888)FIDELIS (888-343-3547) or visit www.fideliscare.org.
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October 2013 I parentguide News I 23
Special needs & Health & Fitness DIRECTORY Enrichment/Tutoring Services Mathnasium Learning Centers 43-17 Bell Boulevard, Bayside (718)747-MATH (6284) www.mathnasium.com/bayside 3430 Sunrise Highway, Wantagh (516)799-MATH (6284) 414 Central Ave., Cedarhurst (516)569-1500 www.mathnasium.com/fivetowns 1141-3 Jericho Turnpike, Commack (631)543-MATH (6284) Forest Hills (718)544-MATH (6284) 11 Great Neck Road, Great Neck (516)482-MATH (6284) www.mathnasium.com/greatneck 2795 Middle Country Road, Lake Grove (631)619-6949 www.mathnasium.com/lakegrove 381 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook (516)881-7997 www.mathnasium.com/lynbrook 1003 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park (516)616-MATH (6284) www.mathnasium.com/newhydepark 217A Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights (516)484-MATH (6284) www.mathnasium.com/roslyn 110 Jackson Ave., Syosset (516)944-MATH (6284) www.mathnasium.com/syosset-jericho Mathnasium Learning Centers, with more than 300 locations in the United States, as well as in 16 countries, offer math-only educational programs. In a relaxed, homework-free environment, Mathnasium enables kids to focus on sharpening their math skills. Mathnasium students develop and maintain the mathematics knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the information age. Mathnasium is a learning center where kids go to catch up, keep up, or get ahead in math. Programs run year round for kids of all ages.
Kids Connection at ACDS
It Starts With A Vision
Early Childhood Program for Children 6 wks. - 5 yrs.
PROOF
PROOF
3 Extended Hours 7am-5:30pm 3 Integrated Pre-School 3 Preschool Class W/Related Services 3 Infant/Toddler Playground 3 Outdoor Playground 3 Indoor Gym 3 Computers 3 Music, Art & Education 3 DSS approved
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Call to Schedule a Tour. 4 Fern Place, Plainview, NY Call MaryLynn Dinu, Director at 516-933-4700 ext. 109
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24 I parentguide News I October 2013
parentguidenews.com
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PROOF Experience
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PROOF
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419 Park• Avenue 13th Floor, FlexibleSouth, Scheduling for New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734
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6 weeks to 5 Years • Open 7am-6pm • Speciality Classes • Nutritious Meals Daily FROM: • Large Indoor/Outdoor Play Area • Professional Staff • NYS Licensed & Insured Our children love to learn Appreciation from our families and the joy of knowing the children have made many new friends
Teaching
600 Broadway Bethpage
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sigN UP for free ISSUE DATE: mommy aNd me! (16-24 mos.)
Please call or fax your comments and/or OK.
1373 Bellmore rd. North Bellmore
SIGNATURE516-221-1511 OF APPROVAL: 516-932-1244
www.sweettotscreativechildcare.com
Toddler 2’s, 3’s & Pre-K 4’s
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• 2, 3, and 5 days-AM, PM and Full Day • Registered with NY State & Approved by Board of Regents • Hot Lunch Program • Vacation Care • Transportation • Individual Attention from NYS Certified Teachers • Before/After School Program • Indoor Gym/Outdoor Playground
We Thank the Community for 25 Wonderful Years! Camp Ages 2-8 Years
4, 6 & 8 Week Programs • 3 or 5 Half, Mid & Full Days
• Daily Red Cross Swim Instruction In Our Heated Pool • Sports Instruction • Arts & Crafts • Music & Dance • Summer Reading Club • Science & Nature • Transportation • Before/After Camp Program • Kidz Choice Program • LegoLand
247 Jackson Avenue • Syosset • 516-921-4949 • greentreesschoolandcamp.com Family Owned & Operated Since 1988 your needs, your neighborhood
October 2013 I parentguide News I 25
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. We’ll post select entries online for viewer voting until the end of November. Encourage friends and relatives to vote once a day, too.
n Marc us
like
dit: Joa
or tickets to a Broadway show,
Photo C re
Win a Chicco Stroller and Car Seat Visit www.parentguidenews.com for contest details. 26 I parentguide News I October 2013
parentguidenews.com
Bethlehem Nursery School
SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1976
“Where All God ’s Children are STARS”
Good Shepherd LUTHERAN
Serving The Community Since 1956 s 5 Acre Campu de Facilities Inclu srooms, ned Clas Air-Conditio & Large Gymnasium ground Fenced-In Play
Open Enrollment for Fall 2013
ProoF Full & Part-Time Program Choices
419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • • Arts & Crafts • Science • Storytelling • Bible Study to: • Math • Indoor & Outdoor Play FAx # • Language Arts • Spanish • Music From: • NYS Licensed • Spacious Air-Conditioned Rooms • Qualified & Experienced Counselors and Teachers PleaseAttention call or fax your • Small Classes with One-on-One
call to schedule a tour! SigNAture oF APProvAl:
1375 N. Grand Ave. • Baldwin • 516-223-3400 • bethlehemns.org
Our aim is to provide each child with an enriched educational experience in an atmosphere of Christian love, encouraging the development of a positive self concept and a genuine concern for the feelings and needs of others.
ProoF
Available to Suit Your Individual Needs
CLASSES INCLUDE:
SCHOOL
• Toddler Separation (2’s) • Nursery (3’s) • Pre-Kindergarten (4’s) • Full Day Nursery/ Pre-Kindergarten Fax 212-447-7734 • Before & After Care Program • Summer Programs • Fully Licensed
Join us on OCTOBER 26TH for our OPEN HOUSE from 11:30AM-1PM & FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL from 12PM-4PM comments and/or oK. iSSue DAte:
516-349-1966 • ourshepherdlives.org
99 CENTRAL PARK ROAD • PLAINVIEW, NY
Family Owned and Operated Since 1954 Licensed by NYS Board of Education and Offices of Children & Family Services
NURSERY SCHOOL/ KINDERGARTEN • Infants-Starting 6 weeks • Toddler Program • Several 3-4 Yr Old Classroom Settings • Kindergarten-Full or half day • Hot Lunches • Spacious Playgrounds • Full & Part Time
Celebrating Our “59th” Year! your needs, your neighborhood
Creative Program • Close Parent-Teacher Contact • Warm Friendly Atmosphere • Qualified Staff • Free Transportation • Extended Hours for • Working Parents
WWW.BIGCHIEFSCHOOLANDCAMP.COM
East Meadow • 781-3900
Early Bird Registration for Camp 2014! October 2013 I parentguide News I 27
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
28 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 don’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.
Proof
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
your needs, your neighborhood
October 2013 I parentguide News I 29
LET’S CELEBRATE! Entertainers, Party Places and More...
for the Future, each 16 Handles location helps plant 16 trees each day. Learn more about this initiative at www.treesforthefuture.org. Are you ready to party at 16 Handles - Frozen Yogurt Your Way this unique venue? 16 Handles reserves seats in the 22 Jericho Turnpike, Jericho, NY 11753 store for your child and guest. All children receive 1005 Port Washington Boulevard, Port Washington, NY 11050 wristbands and the irthday child gets a free T-shirt 1060 Old Country Road, Plainview, NY 11803 and frozen yogurt. As long as your party is not held jericho@16handles.com during peak hours, you may bring in additional food www.16handles.com or entertainment. Your party may also feature music of 419 Park Avenue South,toNew York, NY 10016 • your 212-213-8840 212-447-7734 16 Handles treats your child and guests a delicious child’s• Fax choosing. Call 16 Handles to get a sweet birthday party. This fresh frozen yogurt store always start on your child’s next event. TO: flavors on tap, including two FAX # has 16 kosher-certified non-dairy options. Little ones may choose from more Active Kidz Long Island than 50 toppings, likeFROM: wholesome berries or decadent ISSUE 200DATE: Robbins Lane, Jericho, NY 11753 sauces, to suit their independent tastes. 16 Handles (516)621-6600 is not only changing how you experience frozen www.activekidzlongisland.com or faxYogurt your comments OK. for a place where your kids can run, yogurt, but also how you livePlease in thecall world. If you and/or are looking at the store is eaten with cornstarch-based spoons jump, climb and play in a safe and clean atmosphere, SIGNATURE APPROVAL:composts and and biodegradable cups. 16 OF Handles Active Kidz is the place for you. A perfect venue in recycles where possible. Together with partner Trees which to host a party, the brand-new, 20,000 square-foot
At Their Place
PROOF
PROOF
Continued on page 32.
CHARACTERS AVAILABLE!
BOUNCE PARTIES!
SUPER PARTY SPECIALS!
OPEN PLAY
$10
PER SESSION
NEW BUBBLE MACHINE AVAILABLE
LAST MINUTE BOOKINGS WELCOME!
WEEKDAY PACKAGES STARTING AT FOR 15 KIDS!
$200
FREE
15 MINUTES BUBBLE MACHINE WITH COUPON ONLY NOT TO BE COMBINED W/OTHER OFFERS
Deer Park • (631) 871-8762 • www.KangarooKidsParty.com 30 I parentguide News I October 2013
parentguidenews.com
Birthday DIRECTORY
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QQQ ;=NCP?EC>TFIHACMF;H> =IG 0I<<CHM *;H? (?LC=BI ,?RN >IIL NI *C@?NCG? $CNH?MM Y your needs, your neighborhood
October 2013 I parentguide News I 31
Birthday DIRECTORY two years in a row for 2011-2012 by Long Island facility is filled with exciting attractions such as a fourPress. What do you get when you mix awesome level indoor Adventure Maze; two rock climbing walls; inflatable structures, a clean and climate-controlled a state-of-the-art, 40-player laser tag arena; a cannon ball environment, incredible customer service, and nonair blast; gigantic inflatables; Lazer Frenzy; glow-in-thestop excitement in a private-party atmosphere? One dark dance fun; and more. The custom-built Adventure heck of a great time, that’s what! BounceU FarmMaze, one of the largest on the North Shore, contains ingdale is an indoor party and entertainment venue more than 40 play elements and includes slides, tunnels that features warehouse-sized rooms filled with giant and web climbs. A separate Toddler Center, for children inflatable toys, providing a variety of activities for ages 4 and younger, holds a large pirate ship, featuring a children and adults. Children enjoy enormous slides, gang plank, slide, and wall panels with educational and gigantic inflatable games like boxing and basketinteractive toys. In the Battle Quest Laser Tag Arena, ball, obstacle courses, and so much more! Whether players enter a post-apocalyptic world filled with meyou’re celebrating a milestone event or gathering chanical droids and giant robots that fire lasers at them. with friends, BounceU has you covered. Parents love During a game of Lazer Frenzy, players pretend to be in the ease of having a private party at BounceU, while Mission Impossible and cross a room filled with laser can’t wait to steal the spotlight in jaw-dropping beams without triggering them. Visit for Kids’ Night Out 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 •kids 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 bounce stadiums. From field trips and fundraisers to every Friday, Laser Tag leagues and weekday specials. club outings and team parties, any BounceU event is Call for information about hosting a party, corporate to: FAx # all about you. Cleanliness and safety are top priorities event, or bar or bat mitzvah that features all of these at BounceU, where the staff is always attentive to your cool activities. From: iSSue DAte:providing superior service. When it comes to needs, preschool playdates, open bounce sessions, summer BounceU Farmingdale camps,and/or birthday 101 Carolyn Boulevard, Farmingdale, Please callNY or 11735 fax your comments oK.and team parties, school fundraisers, and youth group functions, BounceU Farmingdale (631)777-JUMP (5867) is the best choice for “creating memories that last a farmingdale.ny@bounceu.com SigNAture oF APProvAl: lifetime.” So, bounce over and enjoy a great time with www.bounceu.com/farmingdale your family and friends. Call for details. Voted Long Island’s “Best Children’s Party Place”
ProoF
ProoF
$50 OFF
Any Party Sunday - Thursday!
Expires 10/31/2013 3/31/2013. VALID ON FULL PRICED PARTIES ONLY. May not be combined with other offers, promotional discounts, coupons, or any discounted parties slots including Wacky Wednesday pricing. Must mention promo code PG70SunWA or present physical coupon to redeem. Valid at Pump It Up of Plainview or Bohemia only This coupon has no cash value. Limit 1 per Customer.
2 For 1
Pump It Up is the original inflatably great party place! 100% Private Parties Trained/Dedicated Team of Staff Stress-Free for Party Host
Safe & Clean Environment Gigantically Fun Inflatables Brightly Decorated Party Room
Come visit our Plainview location and see our Exciting NEW Interactive Motion Mania Attraction!
32 I parentguide News I October 2013
Pop-In Playtime Good Any Day!
10/31/2013 Good any day! Must mention promo code PG24112 or presExpires - 6/30/2013. ent physical coupon to redeem. Valid at Pump It Up of Plainview or Bohemia only. May not be combined with any other offers, coupons, special pricing, or promotional discounts. This coupon has no cash value. Limit 1 per Customer per visit, Sorry No Exceptions. This coupon may be accepted for other events too, please call for specific details. This coupon is not valid for use with any party, fundraiser or other Special Events, it is for use during public Pop-In Playtime sessions only.
Two gigantic Pump It Up locations near you. Time Slots fill quickly so call to book your party today!
631.563.3100 Pump It Up of Bohemia 1750 Arctic Ave. Bohemia, N.Y. 11716
516.575.2300 Pump It Up of Plainview 135 Dupont St. Plainview, N.Y. 11803
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Birthday DIRECTORY BounceU Oceanside 3495B Lawson Boulevard, Oceanside, NY 11572 (516)593-JUMP (5867) oceanside.ny@bounceu.com www.bounceu.com BounceU of Oceanside specializes in perfect party ideas. It offers amazing inflatable structures, unbeatable customer service, and a clean and climate-controlled environment, so all you have to do is show up and take pictures. Throwing a private party couldn’t be easier, as BounceU takes care of the food, cleanup, and everything else. Party packages also include: the Spectac-U-Lar Birthday, which provides games, bouncing, goodie bags, balloons and a souvenir T-shirt for the birthday child; the Premier Private Birthday, featuring two dedicated party pros, non-stop bouncing, video games and more; and the U-Junior Birthday, offering games, music and inflatable fun along with a party pro. Add on the Cosmic Bounce option to any party and experience out-of-this-world lighting and glowin-the-dark accessories. Favors run the gamut from stuffed water bottles to princess themed. Parties are only the beginning at BounceU, where families enjoy a plethora of programs, classes, events, and more. Get your bounce on!
Proof
Bounce! Trampoline Sports® 310 Michael Drive, Syosset, NY 11791 (516)762-1300 infoli@bounceonit.com www.bounceonit.com Bounce! Trampoline Sports® offers people of all ages the chance to jump, exercise, and play on massive courts of interconnected trampolines. Children ages 2 and older through adults are invited to jump into the excitement at Bounce! Gather with friends and family to perform flips and twists. Play popular sports like trampoline dodgeball and slam dunk basketball. Groups, camps, schools, teams, competitions, leagues, skateboarders, and snowboarders are all welcome. Host a special event, fundraiser, bar or bat mitzvah, or birthday party at Bounce! Parties include 90 minutes of open bounce, 30 minutes in the party room for refreshments, pizza, water or juice, paper goods, unique invitations and e-vites, setup, and cleanup. Little ones ages 6 and younger have access to a separate playzone with trampolines, foam pits, and the option to add inflatables or experience an inflatables-only party. Add-ons, such as extra food and additional guests, are available. All courts include trampoline walls, covered padding, and safety nets. Visit the website or stop by to see why trampolines have become all the rage for creating one-of-a-kind events.
Proof
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
your needs, your neighborhood
October 2013 I parentguide News I 33
Birthday DIRECTORY
ATTENTION PTA PARENTS!
Proof
Call us about fundraising opportunities. Let us help your PTA raise money this school year!
Bricks 4 Kidz Creativity Center www.bricks4kidz.com/northshore Bricks 4 Kidz’s programs create an extraordinary atmosphere where children learn, build, and play with LEGO® bricks. Programs have been designed by engineers and architects to present kids with exciting themes like space, sports, construction, and amusement parks. Staff help children ages 3 to 12 and older to learn through activities that engage their curiosity, creativity, self-expression, communication, and social skills. Have a Bricks 4 Kidz birthday party for a unique event that inspires creativity. One-hour Deluxe Parties include a host, free play with LEGO® bricks, an optional model build, LEGO®-based games and challenges, invitations, paper goods, car racing, and spin art. The Premiere Party Package includes all of this plus a Mini-Figure Factory, so each guests takes home a figure. The Workz Party Package, at one and a half hours, combines the two other packages and additionally features pizza or bagels, drinks, a tshirt for the birthday child, thank you cards, and a Zipline Model. Add-ons, such as extra time or the option for more guests, are available. In addition to parties, Bricks 4 Kidz offers summer camps, afterschool enrichment classes (k-2 and 3-5), preschool classes, and events.
Proof
16 www.parentguidenews.com HANDLES.COM • 212-213-8840 JERICHO: 516.833.6855 PLAINVIEW: 516.433-8086 PORT WASHINGTON: 516.439.4715 $1 OFF A CUP OF
$3 OFF
20% OFF
Cannot be combined with other offers. Not redeemable for cash. Exp. 11/3/13.
Cannot be combined with other offers. Not redeemable for cash. Exp. 11/3/13.
Book in advance. Cannot be combined with other offers. Not redeemable for cash. Exp. 11/3/13.
FRO-YO ANY CAKE A PARTY
34 I parentguide News I October 2013
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Birthday DIRECTORY
www.parentguidenews.com â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840
PROOF
Celebrations in the Kitchen 63 E. Old Country Road, Hicksville, NY 11801 (516)396-2193 celebrationsinthekitchen@gmail.com www.celebrationsinthekitchen.com Celebrations in the Kitchen offers delicious and exciting professional baking parties, classes, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities and more. Since 1997, thousands of children have had joyful memories at baking birthday parties, classes, camps, and Girl or Boy Scout visits. Celebrations in the Kitchen activities are held in a unique, state-of-the-art facility. It includes a large, clean and safe exhibition kitchen; private party room; and a beautiful cafe with an espresso bar. A variety of party themes are offered, including: Cookie Baking, Cookie Decorating, Chocolate Candy Cottage, Cake Decorating, Cupcakes and More, Scone Baking Tea Party, Pies and Crostadas Party, and more. Parties, led by an expert staff, offer colorful and vibrant ingredients, dairy- and nut-free options, as well as fresh and certified Kosher ingredients. All-inclusive parties feature an array of projects, a birthday cake to be decorated by your child at the event, a choice of food and drinks for guests, aprons, invitations, a dedicated staff team, and more. Full catering options with a diverse menu of delicacies prepared on premises are provided for adult guests, making Celebrations in the Kitchen a terrific venue for your next party or family affair!
PROOF
Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724 (516)692-6768 www.cshfha.org Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium is a nonprofit center that educates visitors about New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freshwater ecosystems. Throughout two buildings and eight outdoor ponds, it offers the largest living collection of New York State freshwater reptiles, fish and amphibians. The aquarium also offers one-and-a-halfhour birthday parties with live animal presentations, fish feedings, outdoor picnic tables or indoor ones, goodie bags, cake lighting and cutting supplies and cleanup. As many as 12 children ages 3 and older along with six adults are invited to celebrate at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium. Parties are held Monday through Friday in the afternoon and select weekends. Space is also available for after-hours event rental. Call for additional details about birthday bashes or events. Cool Crafts, Inc. 3479 Merrick Road, Wantagh, NY 11793 (516)735-2007 www.coolcraftslongisland.com Are you looking for the perfect location to host your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next birthday party or group gathering? Cools Crafts, Inc., is the answer for all your crafting needs. Afyour needs, your neighborhood
Where Birthdays Come to Life!
! Ä&#x2018;Ĺ? .%2 0!Ĺ? .05Ĺ? 4,!.%!* ! Ä&#x2018;Ĺ? % *0Ĺ? *Ă˝ 0 (!Ĺ? % !/ Ä&#x2018;Ĺ? ! % 0! Ĺ? .05Ĺ? .+/ Ä&#x2018;Ĺ? /5Ĺ?0+Ĺ? + Ä&#x2018;Ĺ? !Ĺ? (! *Ĺ? ,Ä&#x201C;
*!Ĺ? )%//%+*Ĺ?0+Ĺ? ,!*Ĺ? +1* !Ä&#x201C; Valid at BounceU of Farmingdale location only. Coupon not valid with any other offers or discounts. No cash value. One Coupon per visit per family. Not valid on Special Events or Charity Events. Expires 3/31/13. 11/6/13.
$20 OFF Premier or Spec-Tac-U-Lar Party .!)%!.Ĺ?+.Ĺ? ,! 0 1( .Ĺ? PLUS 2 Free Additional Kids! .05Ĺ? Ĺ?Ä&#x192;Ĺ?".!!Ĺ?'% /Ä&#x201C; (A $73 Value)
Valid at BounceU of Farmingdale location only. Coupon not valid with any other offers or discounts. No cash value. One Coupon per visit per party. Expires 3/31/13. 11/6/13.
+1* ! Ĺ?+"Ĺ? .)%*# (!
ĨÄ&#x2021;Ä&#x192;Ä ÄŠĹ?Ä&#x2C6;Ä&#x2C6;Ä&#x2C6;ÄĄ Ĺ?ĨÄ&#x2020;Ä&#x2030;Ä&#x2021;Ä&#x2C6;ÄŠĹ?Ä&#x2018;Ĺ? +1* ! Ä&#x2039; +)ÄĽ" .)%*# (! Ä Ä&#x20AC;Ä Ĺ? .+(5*Ĺ? (2 Ä&#x2039;Ä&#x152;Ĺ? .)%*# (!Ä&#x152;Ĺ? Ĺ?Ä Ä Ä&#x2C6;Ä&#x192;Ä&#x2020;
October 2013 I parentguide News I 35
Birthday DIRECTORY ter serving its Levittown location for the past nine years, Cool Crafts has moved to a larger space in Wantagh. Parties are one and a half hours and include a large selection of one-of-a-kind crafts, your choice of pizza or bagels, soda and juice, coffee for adults, paper goods, invitations, video games (age appropriate), music, dancing, balloons, nail polish and tattoos. All parties are led by party hosts that keep the fun going, and as a special gift for the birthday child, a photo is taken of the entire group as a keepsake. You can also host your perfect party at home and Cool Crafts, Inc., will supply all the materials needed for your special day. Cool Crafts hosts numerous school groups, Scout troop events, special needs groups as well as pre-k/toddler parties. Call for a schedule of daily walk-ins. Individual classes are available. Light-up Halloween and Christmas pieces are available for special order. Cool Crafts has it all, so call, visit the website and “Like” it on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coolcrafts to learn more about all of the crafts available to you! Darlings & Divas 65 Merrick Road, Amityville, NY 11701 (631)608-4710 info@darlingsanddivas.com http://darlingsanddivas.com There’s a bit of darling and diva in every girl, so let both sides shine at Darlings & Divas party place and boutique. There’s something there to make your little girl feel fabulous, whether it be the diva-licious dress-up room or the awesome dance floor and stage. The all-new store was reinvented by two Long Island moms. Darlings & Divas is the answer to your party-planning needs because its staff makes throwing a bash easier than ever. Parties include two hours in the dress-up room, stage, salon, and cafe; food and drinks; paper goods and invitations; karaoke and dancing; crafts and prizes; manicures and makeovers; and more. The diva of honor attends free and receives a complimentary gift. You can choose from a wide variety of themes, or mix-and-match them to make your own unique experience. Themes include: Princess Party, Pinkalicious Party, Spa Party, Darling Tea Party, Monster High Party, Strike a Darling Pose Party and more. Custom themes are available: Call for details. Also check out the Darlings & Divas boutique, featuring the brand-new Posh Polish bar by appointment, cool gifts, complimentary wrapping, wish lists for the birthday girl, one-of-a-kind pop artist handbags, Charm It jewelry, American Girl Doll clothing, dress-up sets, fashion accessories and more. Visit Darlings & Divas for a free tour, or have them come to you for your next event! Fun Craft Great Neck (516)487-0255 Jericho (516)933-1785 www.funcraftparties.net What could be more fun for a child’s birthday party 36 I parentguide News I October 2013
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Birthday DIRECTORY
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Proof
than having it at Fun Craft? Fun Craft is celebrating its 25th anniversary! Fun Craft has everything from plastercraft painting and create-your-own CD to stuffa-pet, decorate-your-own pillowcase or T-shirt, tie dye, sand art and much more. There’s no limit to what kids can create at Fun Craft. An one-and-a-half- or two-hour party includes a craft activity, a private disco room with your very own DJ, dancing games, the latest sound and lighting show, video games, bubble fun, pizza, drinks, goodie bags and invites. In other words, everything is done for you, so just bring the camera. Add-ons include party themes, characters, carnival cotton candy, a popcorn wagon, create-your-own ice cream sundaes, face painting, tattoos, piñatas, balloons and so much more. Customize your own party or choose from packages: economy, premium, Royalty Prince/Princess, Stuff-aPet, Wild ‘n’ Wacky, Pirate, Silly Science, Pajama Party and many more. Fun Craft has locations in Jericho and Great Neck. Fun Craft is open seven days a week for parties, walk-ins and Wednesday play dates. Hofstra Athletics Hempstead, NY 11549 (516)HOF-TIXX www.hofstra.edu Celebrate your son or daughter’s birthday with the Pride of Hofstra University! Birthday packages allow your kids and their friends to have a unique game experience. They include game tickets, meal vouchers at the concession stand, and a Pride goodie bag for everyone in the party. Parties are affordable and easy for parents. Book your party today by calling the Hofstra Athletics Ticket Office at (516)HOF-TIXX (463-8499).
Proof
Island Fencing Academy 101-32 Dupont St., Plainview, NY 11803 (516)576-0646 / (631)745-6272 ifa8@aol.com www.islandfencingacademy.com Is your child a swashbuckler at home? Why not let him or her live out a dream birthday? Island Fencing Academy provides the unique opportunity for your child to learn fencing in a friendly and safe environment. Birthday parties at Island Fencing offer one hour of instruction where children get to learn basic footwork, as well as offense and defense skills. They’ll feel like warriors in a movie when they get to bout with each other at the end of the session! Highquality foam weapons are available as a party favor, so the fun doesn’t have to end when the party does. The sport of fencing provides a fun and challenging experience. It teaches discipline, improves balance and develops hand-eye coordination. Island Fencing provides the safety equipment for beginner fencers, so Jedi light sabres and sticks can stay at home! your needs, your neighborhood
Now ! Open
• • • • • • •
You’ ve Neve r Se en Anyt hing Like It!
Trampoline Dodgeball Slam Dunk Basketball Enormous Open Jump Court Dual Foam Pits First Ever Trampoline Bungee Sport Jump Inflatable Obstacle Courses for Younger Set Fitness Classes Starting Soon!
Bounce! opened its first facility in Rockland County in 2011 and has quickly become a phenomenon in the field of Indoor Sports Entertainment. 310 Michael Dr., Syosset • 516-762-1300 bounceonit.com • infoLI@bounceonit.com facebook.com/bouncetrampolinesports twitter.com/bouncesport
October 2013 I parentguide News I 37
Birthday DIRECTORY The Little Gym of Levittown 2890 Hempstead Turnpike, Levittown, NY 11756 (516)520-4455 tlglevittownny@thelittlegym.com www.tlglevittownny.com “Fantabulous.” “Splendiforous.” There just aren’t enough synonyms to describe how awesome an Awesome Birthday Bash truly is. So, let’s see if this sums it up: Parents magazine named The Little Gym the number 1 place to host children’s birthday parties. Your group will have the whole place to itself with games, The Lanyard Ladies music and fun activities created especially for your 21 Ryder Place, East Rockaway, NY 11518 birthday kid. Trained instructors will lead all the fun, (516)578-2248 and The Little Gym team will handle everything from thelanyardladies@yahoo.com setup to cleanup, which means get to go• home to a www.thelanyardladies.com 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 you • 212-213-8840 Fax 212-447-7734 clean, quiet house when all the fun is done. It’s no surThe Lanyard Ladies provide a new and unique birthday prise that many parents tell staff an Awesome Birthday party idea. Friendship Bracelet and Lanyard birthday TO: FAX # Bash is a big wish come true for them, too. Awesome parties feature awesome ways to have fun and be creBirthday Bash packages include addressed, stamped ative. They offer a wide variety of crafts. There are 26 FROM: ISSUE DATE:birthday leader and and mailed invitations; a qualified beautiful colors of string and lanyard from which guests assistant; setup and cleanup; all paper goods; juice may choose. Kids learn to make all of their favorite patand water; a The Little Gym T-shirt terns and have the best birthday party at the same time. Please callpizza; or faxand your comments and/or OK. for the birthday child, who attends the party for free. Children The Lanyard Ladies can travel to you or you can come 1 through 12 will enjoy a celebration they’ll never to their location. Check the website to discover the many SIGNATURE ages OF APPROVAL: forget with The Little Gym’s help. Party guests enjoy fabulous partner locations that can hold your next party private use of the entire cheerful and safe facility. They or event. Your guests are sure to have a “stringtastic” play games, dance to music, and participate in fun acgood time. Island Fencing Academy also offers the following programs: Mini-Musketeer Fencing Program (ages 5-7) and Intro Class (ages 8-14). New classes begin the first week of each month. Intro and Beginner Camps (ages10-14) are a fun alternative to regular classes. Week-long camps run from 9am-3pm. Visit the website to learn more about your child’s participation in Long Island’s fastest growing sport known as physical chess!
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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Programs Innovative Enrichment for Curious Kids Ages Birth - 12 Yrs
Educate Young Imaginations!
2 Hour Birthday Parties for Girls 3-13
classes • parties • specialty toys
school vacation day activities • scout troops
music together
®
art • science • theater
! Many Themes nway
• Ru Spa • Princess and More!
celebrating 20 joyful years of children, creativity, and commnunity!
Music Together Classes offered in • Garden City • Huntington Village • Manhasset • Oyster Bay • Plainview
WE CAN COME TO
YOU!
Girl Scout & Playdate Packages Available!
65 Merrick Road, Amityville • 631-608-4710 COME SEE THE PARTY SPACE OR SHOP THE BOUTIQUE! ®
38 I parentguide News I October 2013
Tues.-Sat. 11am-6pm • Sunday 10am-2pm
www.darlingsanddivas.com parentguidenews.com
P
Birthday DIRECTORY tivities. Let The Little Gym help you celebrate your memorable milestones.
Little Ladies Club Hicksville, NY 11801 (516)939-CLUB (2582) www.thelittleladiesclub.com With so many princess parties available, what sets the Little Ladies Club apart from the rest? With more than 14 years of experience, Little Ladies Club ensures you can count on your party being absolutely perfect! The Little Ladies Club is an original creation hosting Glamour Parties for girls ages 1 through sweet 16. The Little Ladies Club provides first-class their spectacular location. 419 Park Avenue South, service New York, NYin10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 You will have your choice of age-appropriate party rooms. Her Majesty Suite is adorned with beautiful TO: FAX # Victorian décor, while the Tween Queen Spa is super chic and tons of fun. Parties are private, all-incluFROM: ISSUEThey DATE: feature stunning sive, two-hour celebrations. hairstyles, hair accessories, personalized combs, aromatherapy and pedicures, dress up, a Please call or manicures fax your comments and/or OK. red carpet fashion show, a tea party, dancing, party favors, plus so much more! Boys love it, too! Her SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: Majesty Suite accommodates boys with the “Mr. Royal T” Club House and specially designed boy services. Her Majesty Suite also accommodates adults.
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Lovely Lady Lola, a custom-created fortune teller machine, provides inspirational messages to your tween or teen queen! Offering the hippest jukebox, therapeutic fountains, cucumber facials and bracelet beading, the Club is a favorite among tweens! So whether your child is a princess, tween or teen, and you are looking for perfection, look no further than The Little Ladies Club! M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym 2629 Grand Ave., Bellmore, NY 11710 (516)221-1330 171 Eileen Way, Syosset, NY 11791 (516)496-7765 www.matsskidsgym.com M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym offers a unique assortment of fun, games and activities that make your child’s next birthday party the ultimate party! Your guests are greeted by a devoted staff, eager to make the most important day in your child’s life one he or she will never forget. From a choice of music to favorite games, each party package in the wide range of them available is one of a kind. Choose from cotton candy, sno-cones, popcorn, make-your-own sundae, face painting or tattoos. A favorite character may pay a surprise visit (invite a princess, someone who lives in a pineapple under the sea, or a friend from a certain street). Create an inspired craft project. Try an all-inclusive special theme party such
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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Give Your Young Explorer a Season Surrounded by Nature at
Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium EGG TAKING DEMONSTRATIONS DEMONSTRATIONS AT 1PM & 3PM
October 26 & 27 • November 2, 3, 9 & 10
ip Bracelet & Lanyard Friendsh BIRTHDAY PARTIES! PARTN
PARTY LOCAER in ManhattTIONS Queens an, L ong Islan&d Chec k website fo r a list of fabulous to have yo places ur next party or ev ent.
INBOW MAKE RA LETS AT ACE LOOM BR T PARTY! YOUR NEX
Friendship Bracelet & Lanyard
Witness the centuries old process of egg taking and fertilization. See how the Hatchery has been producing trout for over 125 years!
HAUNTED HATCHERY October 26th, 4pm to 7pm
Check out our online store!
Calling all ghosts and goblins, spiders and bones, the Hatchery’s open for an evening roam.. Trick or Treat at many fun filled stations throughout the Hatchery.
Birthday Parties!
Celebrate while exploring the aquarium, feeding fish & enjoying a live animal presentation!
1660 Rt. 25A, Cold Spring Harbor • 516-692-6768 • CSHFHA.org A non-profit freshwater game fish hatchery and a leading environmental education center devoted to increasing public awareness and knowledge of the freshwater ecosystems of Long Island.
your needs, your neighborhood
WE BRING THE PARTY TO YOU OR YOU CAN COME TO OUR LOCATION
Birthday Parties Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Sweet Sixteens Girl Scouts Brownies All Occasions!
Classes & parties now available at our new location 21 Ryder Place, East Rockaway, NY
516.578.2248 www.thelanyardladies.com
October 2013 I parentguide News I 39
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Birthday DIRECTORY
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 The Madd Potter four course medieval banquet while witnessing 17 Aubrey Ave., Oyster Bay, NY 11771 brave knights compete on horseback in games of (516)922-3223 skill, jousting matches and swordfights. Admiswww.themaddpotter.com sionSouth, includes a New fourYork, course dinner, beverages and a TheSouth, Madd pottery and 419 Park Avenue 13th Potter Floor, New is York,a NYpaint-your-own 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 419 Park Avenue 13th Floor, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 live show. Parking is free. In addition to their regucraft studio with tons of programs, workshops, and lar daily schedules, Medieval classes for children and FAX adults. The studio offers TO: # TO: FAX # Times is the perfect place to celebrate the next birthday of the young a warm and friendly environment for families and Lord or Lady of your own castle! Their special acfriends. You can choose to paint pottery with a variFROM: ISSUE DATE: FROM: ISSUE DATE: tion-packed birthday party packages include preety of tools like stamps and stencils, try your hand at ferred seating, an individual photo with the King making objects like bowls or plates with glass fusion, Queen, cheering birthday play with create unique Please callmosaic or faxtiles yourtocomments and/orpatterns OK. and orPlease calla or fax yourbanner, comments and/orcake, OK. and an announcement in honor of the birthday child during designs on a keepsake, or work with clay right from performance! Medieval Times is located west The Madd Potter additionally hosts summer SIGNATURE scratch. OF APPROVAL: SIGNATURE the OF APPROVAL: of Giants Stadium and just minutes from mid-town activities for kids, ladies’ nights out, and birthday Manhattan. Other locations include Hanover, MD; parties. Check out the website and events calendar Lawrenceville, GA; Kissimmee, FL; Schaumburg, for details on workshop and program information. as Survivor, Beach Blast, Art Explosion, Princess Tea Party, Super Heroes, Ooey Gooey, Diva Done Right or Win It. A multitude of favors are available and may be coordinated to your theme. Parties are run by an enthusiastic and well-trained support staff. Stop by and visit either location. Meet with a party consultant to help you plan the birthday party your child will always remember! M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym: A rainbow of programs all under one roof!
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CRAFT L O O COf Long Island, Inc.
Craft Parties!
Have A Party At Our Place Or Take Home Craft Kits For Parties At Your Home ! Personalized Gift Items
Celebrating 9 Years!
Look for our Fall Program Schedule!
Discounts For Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts & School Organizations
$25 OFF Any Party Of 15 Kids Or More
Exp. 10/30
(516) 735-2007 3479 Merrick Rd • Wantagh, NY 11793 (Spacious Parking Lot in Front & Rear of Building)
www.coolcraftslongisland.com 40 I parentguide News I October 2013
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Open Play Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of this fast-paced, action-packed elimination game or have never played before, come on down and experience GaGa!
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Birthday DIRECTORY IL; Myrtle Beach, SC; Dallas, TX; Buena Park, CA; and Toronto, Ontario. Call the number above for reservations and further information.
party for little ones comprises one hour of climbing activities combined with bounce-house excitement in a specially equipped gym and 30 minutes in the party room with food and cake. The JCC supplies paper goods, equipment and invitations. Also inquire about pool parties for select ages.
Mid-Island Y JCC 45 Manetto Hill Road, Plainview, NY 11803 (516)822-3535 www.midislandyjcc.org Not Just Art®/Music Together® The Mid-Island Y JCC offers fabulous birthday party 183 South St., Oyster Bay, NY options for children in preschool, nursery school (516)922-8300 and daycare. For the youngest children to toddlers, www.notjustart.com the Creations birthday party consists of an hour of Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, Not Just Art ofclimbing in the gymnasium, which is decorated with fers lovely, creative parties that are a warm and memoage-appropriate Imagination Creation equipment. rable way to celebrate birthdays and other special occaChildren experience circle time, music, and movesions. than a dozen music, art, and science 419 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734419 Park AvenueWith South,more New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 ment. This active environment proves consistently parties available for children ages 1-12 years, and other to be “just the thing” for active toddlers! It’s then on projects available upon request, there is something for O: FAX # TO: FAX # to the party room for food and festivities. Parties are everyone! Open-ended activities are designed to ensure run by toddler specialists who ensure that timing and children of all ages, needs, and abilities feel successROM: DATE: each celebration activities work for you andISSUE yourDATE: guests. The JCC FROM: supful. Staffed by experiencedISSUE teachers, plies paper goods, sports equipment and invitations. is a unique and personalized one. The beautiful speFor preschoolers sixth graders, theOK. Sports and cialty toycall store perfect place to find high-quality Please call or faxthrough your comments and/or Please or is faxtheyour comments and/or OK. Fitness birthday party includes one hour of non-stop toys and tools to spark creativity. It has an eclectic and activity in a specially equipped gym, as well as handpicked collection of children’s toys, instruments, IGNATURE sports OF APPROVAL: SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: 30 minutes of use in the party room for food, cake, and science and art kits, infant gifts and creative supplies fun! This party package includes paper goods, sports for all ages. Located in Oyster Bay, Not Just Art® is a equipment and invitations. The Climb and Bounce children’s creative enrichment center with a year-long
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COOKING • FITNESS • PARTIES • GIRL SCOUTS • SMOOTHIES • FRIENDSHIP
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Where the guest of honor makes the cake & eats it too!
in the
The Sweetest Memories Start in the Kitchen
Book Your Party TODAY for the 2013-14 Season! Real Hands-On, Creative Baking Birthday Parties & Classes New Spacious, Clean & Safe Exhibition Style Kitchen Built for Fun All-Inclusive Party Packages for Birthdays of All Ages, Family Parties & Celebrations of All Kinds Professionally Staffed & Organized for Maximum Participation & Enjoyment See Website Gourmet Cafe, Espresso Bar & Private Party Room For More Party Info Choice of Catered Menu Options for Adults, Too & Check Our
Weekly After School Cooking, Baking & Fitness Programs
Free Trial Cooking & Fitness Classes
Unique and Intimate Birthday, Graduation, Bridal & Other Celebrations
140 Jericho Tpke., Syosset • 516-802-5800
www.ohmygirls.com • omg@ohmygirls.com • Instagram: ohmygirls
your needs, your neighborhood
Choose From Professionally Created Projects Designed To Give A TRUE Baking Experience & Feeling of Accomplishment! • Cookie Baking & Decorating • Cupcake Baking & Decorating • Extreme Cupcake Designs • Cookie-Chocolate Candy House Creation • Brownie Baking • Cake Decorating • Apple Pie From Scratch & more!
Calendar Regularly for Special Fall & Holiday Classes
63 Old Country Rd. • Hicksville, NY • 516-396-2193 In Delco Shp. Ctr.-easily accessible (only 1½ mi. S. of L.I.E. exit 41S)
Scan Our Code for Info & Updates
Droid Users-Download App (Celebrations in the Kitchen) @ Playstore for Easy-Quick Reference
October 2013 I parentguide News I 41
Birthday DIRECTORY flexible calendar of Music Together®, art, and science enrichment classes, drop-in art studios, school vacation and holiday activities, summer mini-camps, play groups, and more. Additional Music Together centers are located in Huntington, Plainview, Garden City and Manhasset. The relaxed, child-friendly environment and approach accommodate a wide range of ages and learning styles. Whatever the program, children will experience respectful, nurturing teachers, cozy class sizes, and moments of joyful wonder and discovery!
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and out! Parties may include any combination of cooking, baking, fitness and smoothie-making. Parties are 90 minutes to two and a half hours in length and include invitations, party favors, celebratory sweet (for cooking or baking parties), paper goods, dishware and candles. Oh My Girls! additionally runs a full afterschool program with daily fitness and cooking classes, badge-earning Girl Scout events, a variety of special empowerment workshops (positive body image building, navigating middle school challenges, etc.) and lots more.
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Oh My Girls! 140 Jericho Turnpike, Syosset, New York 11791 Pump It Up Parties (516)802-5800 1750 Arctic Ave., Bohemia, NY 11716 (631)563-3100 19 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 www.ohmygirls.com 135 South, Dupont St., New Plainview, NY• 11804 (516)575-2300 419 Park Avenue 13th Floor, York, NY 10016 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 Oh My Girls! is the first-ever girl’s health club that info@piuny.com o: FAx # in girlhood. Its goal is all about creating a revolution www.pumpitupparty.com TO: FAX # is to keep girls fit and fabulous for life, which even You won’t want to miss out on all of the fun at one of rom: iSSue DAte:“party.” Have your includes changing the way girls Long Island’s number 1, original, biggest, inflatable DATE: next event for your special girl at Oh My Girls! soFROM: she party zones! Plan your littleISSUE one’s next party at this hot can celebrate in a way that supports her body, mind, spot, which has 180 locations in more than 38 states. The Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. and soul. Oh My Girls! has some of the most unique, massive 15,000-square-foot climate-controlled Please call or fax your comments and/or OK. facility intimate and fun birthday celebrations in the metrohas the latest inflatable designs set up in an indoor arena. gNAture oF APProvAl: politan area. Oh My Girls! believes that havingSIGNATURE fun Also available is Motion Mania, the interactive floor OF APPROVAL: is about much more than getting a bag full of candy game played with your feet. Attractions range from a and aims to provide the “real” goodies that will keep gigantic 20-foot slide and obstacle course to inflatable girls feeling confident and empowered both inside boxing and jousting arenas. Try Pump It Up’s one-of-
Birthday Parties Wild N Wacky Parties
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Stuff-a-Pet Party • Silly Science Party & Many Others!
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Jericho
516-933-1785
The Leader in Children’s Parties! Over 22 Years Experience!
497 N. Broadway
your Party With this coupon only at Time of Booking. Not Combineable. Excludes Economy and Wild & Wacky Party.
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42 I parentguide News I October 2013
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Birthday DIRECTORY a-kind inflatable the Slippery Slope. Pump It Up has tons of options to keep your kids engaged, challenged, active and safe. Host a Classic 90 Party and your guests enjoy one and a half hours of bouncing fun with pizza and soda included. Trained staff members supervise, set up and clean up every party. Pump It Up is the perfect location for any private children’s party, birthday party, 419corporate Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 212-213-8840 212-447-7734 team-building party,• moms’ club• Fax meeting or other special event. Kids of all ages can’t resist a little bouncing fun! Call to plan your event at either TO: FAX special # of Pump It Up’s incredible locations or visit www.pumFROM: pitupparty.com. ISSUE DATE:
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active games. If you are looking for real sports action for your child’s next party, then call W.E.S.T. to reserve your party date! W.E.S.T. also offers batting cage and turf field rentals, open dodgeball every Friday night, weekly preschooler sports classes, flag football and soccer leagues, school break and summer camps, travel team training programs, and seasonal events. Check out W.E.S.T.’s many offerings in person!
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At Your Place
The Funny Man (516)551-2797 Winner’s Edge Sports Training (W.E.S.T.) www.thefunnyman.org Please callStation, or fax your Huntington NY comments and/or OK. 419 Park Avenue TheSouth, Funny makes children and adults all 13thMan Floor, New York, sure NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax are 212-447-7734 (631)367-WEST (9378) smiling when he entertains with his jokes and clownwww.winnersedgesportstraining.com ing. With 28 years in the business of fun and ongoing SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: to: FAx # Winner’s Edge Sports Training (W.E.S.T.) is a 12,000experience as an early childhood teacher, Ellis, a.k.a. The square-foot, indoor sports facility. W.E.S.T. offers yearFunny Man, is a truly special performer who makes unFrom: iSSue DAte:When in his clown round, private and group, training classes in baseball, forgettable memories for your child. softball, soccer, and lacrosse. W.E.S.T. is also home to clothes, The Funny Man can make even the most tentasome of Long Island’s best sports-theme birthday parties tive children his transformational show, Please call laugh or faxatyour comments and/or oK.which is for children ages 3 and older. Its reasonably priced, fullalso an enriching learning experience. Audiences watch service parties give parents a stress-free option forSigNAture celas process of becoming a clown happens before their oF the APProvAl: ebrating their child’s day. All W.E.S.T.• Faxeyes. They’ll see The Funny Man warm up with laughter, 419 Park Avenuespecial South, New York, NYparties 10016 • at 212-213-8840 212-447-7734 include full use of the turf field and a private party room, go to clown school and learn basic clown concepts, and as wellto: as hosts to organize and lead guests FAx through fun, even pet a rabbit who does tricks. The show is complete #
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SPRING ROCK GOLF CENTER THE SILLYMAN A SHOW LIKE NO and/or oK. NNYcallLOADorS Ofax FUPlease comments F your OTHER! ing Party Packages HS
From:
IG
iSSue DAte:
MINI GOLF • DRIVING RANGE • SIMULATOR GOLF
or SPECIALIZING small LAUGUN! oF APProvAl: & F INSigNAture ENTERTAINING Works! CHILDREN 2-8 TRANSFORMATIONAL CLOWN SHOW OLD 212-213-8840 ertising informationYEARS please call LIVE RABBIT • BALLOONS PRE-K TEACHER WITH 28 YEARS EXPERIENCE
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COMING IN FALL 2013, COMEDY CLASSES FOR KIDS
3 Amazo (21 Hole) & Juliet (18 Hole)
e 2 Awesome Courses: Rom
CALL FOR INFO
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BIG or
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PARENTGUIDE works!
For information on how to reach the best families in your area, please call
212-213-8840 your needs, your neighborhood
Madeleine The Magician “THE PIED PIPER OF MAGIC” Magician
“The Harry Potter Magician”
BIRTHDAYS (1-106 So Far) H ScHoolS cAmpS H coRpoRATe H All evenTS
Bar/Bat mitzvahs Communions/Christenings/ Confirmations • reunions Weddings • anniversaries entertain those w/disabilities trade Show magic
magiC WHite doveS Seen By millions • now at Your occasion mtm’S SuSpenSion/ levitation in mid-air CloSeup & Walk around magiC • Your Child “the Star” • interactive audience participation • age-appropriate magic
516-733-0373 • MadeleineTheMagician.com
Golf Lessons Available for Kids!
Other Options Available: Cotton Candy, Balloons & Banner, Train Ride & Goody Bags
SRGC 20th Anniversary Celebration October 18, 19 & 20
FREE Raffle ti ckets w
ith purchases (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) Pro-shop and made in the dr iv ing Range Pro-shop Tent Sale from now un Minimum Purch til October 20. Contests & Prizes October 21. Soase required. Drawing on me restrictions Range Card Promotions apply. Mizuno Club Fitting and More 377 Denton Ave. • New Hyde Park 516-739-0167 • Facebook.com/SpringRockGC
October 2013 I parentguide News I 43
Birthday DIRECTORY with balloon sculptures for each child. If you’re looking for a little outside-of-the-box entertainment, Ellis also takes on the role of Melvin the Nerd, a silly-looking character complete with pull-up polyester pants and a toothbrush in his pocket. Melvin can put on a roast for your guest of honor and add a truly personal touch to the experience. The Funny Man additionally performs as Santa. Visit the website for more information. The Lanyard Ladies 21 Ryder Place, East Rockaway, NY 11518 (516)578-2248 thelanyardladies@yahoo.com www.thelanyardladies.com The Lanyard Ladies provide a new and unique birthday party idea. Friendship Bracelet and Lanyard birthday parties feature awesome ways to have fun and be creative. They offer a wide variety of crafts. There are 26 beautiful colors of string and lanyard from which guests may choose. Kids learn to make all of their favorite patterns and have the best birthday party at the same time. The Lanyard Ladies can travel to you or you can come to their location. Check the website to discover the many fabulous partner locations that can hold your next party or event. Your guests are sure to have a “stringtastic” good time.
10/31/2013.
44 I parentguide News I October 2013
Madeleine The Magician (212)475-7785 / (516)733-0373 madeleine@madeleinethemagician.com www.madeleinethemagician.com www.dazzical.com Close your eyes and imagine a kids’ magic show really for the kids, but the adults enjoying it as well. Where kids are riveted and do not move until the magic show is over. Where kids get excited in an interactive magic show and your child is “the star.” Now open your eyes and see Madeleine The Magician. This charismatic, multi-talented female magician brings kids’ magic shows to a brand-new level. Her magic shows change with the age groups. Magic birthday parties, communions, christenings, bar and bat mitzvahs, weddings, schools, camps, every occasion, and special magic shows for kids with disabilities. Madeleine The Magician, The Harry Potter Magician, performed for J.K. Rowling. In her Harry Potter Magic Shows, the kids and adults become students at Hogwarts: As Ben told his mother, “That wasn’t a magic show that was an adventure!” Her walk around and close-up magic at bar and bat mitzvahs with cards, coins, mentalism, and small illusions is stunning! This magic will be sophisticated when necessary, alluring, exciting, involving, mesmerizing, and it will make you “kvel.” Her shows with white doves, suspensions and levitations in mid-air, kids call “epic!” If you’re looking for the best magician, look no further than Madeleine The Magician, the magician’s magician. parentguidenews.com
learn to fence!
156 Railroad Street Huntington Station
631-367-9378
INDOOR SPORTS FACILITY
PRIVATE AND GROUP TRAINING FOR ALL AGES
**FALL REGISTRATION GOING ON NOW**
PEE wEE & mUSkETEEr FENCING (AGES 5-7)
Experience Fencing!
A fun, safe alternative to traditional team sports.
Island fencIng academy Get Started with Our Introductory Packages of Either 1 Private Lesson & 4 Group Classes for Just $130!
Proof
Proof
Baseball, Softball, Soccer, & Lacrosse Private lessons, Group classes and Clinics Sports-Themed Birthday Parties - ages 3 and up Indoor Batting Cages & Turf Field Rentals Friday Night Dodgeball, Flag Football League Preschool Sports Classes -Ages 18mo-5yrs
(ages 8-14)
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840Or a 4 Private Lesson Package for
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$30 Off Intro Package ($130 Value) PG2013
BIrTHDAY/SCOUT PArTIES wEEk-LONG SUmmEr DAY CAmPS
www.islandfencingacademy.com
“Build your Own” party packages start at $299 Be a guest at your child’s next birthday party !
www.winnersedgesportstraining.com
admin@islandfencingacademy.com
(516) 576-0646
Behind Holiday Inn: 101-32 Dupont St. Plainview, NY 11803
LIE EXIT 46/NSP EXIT 38 SUNNYSIDE BLVD.
celebrate your birthday with the pride!
Our birthday parties are easy for parents, affordable, and best of all FUN for your kids!! build your own birthday pack including: -seat location -special experiences -food from the concession stand -goo -goodybag items and more! Don’t miss out on the excitement! Book your party today by calling 516-HOF-TIXX (463-8499) for more information. Mention “PARENTGUIDE” when you call and your son or daughter will be free! your needs, your neighborhood
October 2013 I parentguide News I 45
Taking to Tantrums The case for a good cry. by K.T. Korngold It’s important to give children, especially toddlers, the correct information about crying. We need to let our children know it is okay to cry and recognize that there are benefits to tantrums.
A
ccepting a crying child increases the child’s self-esteem. Children who cry as needed are often better learners, and after a crying session or a tantrum, toddlers usually become more pleasant. It’s true that a long cry or temper tantrum is not very agreeable to adults. They can be difficult and draining for everyone involved. However, after a good cry or tantrum, children are typically happy, relaxed, cooperative, and easy going. The transformation can be dramatic. The toddler who was previously moody or inflexible becomes a delight.
Y
oung children need to release tension, and temper tantrums are a way to help them ease stress. They allow your toddler to let go of emotions at a stage when language skills and the ability to self-modulate have not been fully developed. There is a lot of energy exploding in the midst of a tantrum, so be very careful. Sometimes children appreciate a comforting hug after it has passed, and other times they don’t want to be touched. It is important to respect the needs of the child.
D
uring a tantrum, stay right beside your toddler and pay close attention. Help your child through the situation by fostering an emotionally and physically safe space for tears and tantrums. Pat her back and give her a reassuring hug if she lets you. Let her know you are there for her with phrases such as, “Crying makes you feel better,” “It’s okay to cry,” “I’m right here,” and “I’ll stay with you while you cry.”
F
or a child who frequently cries or has tantrums, provide support when she’s not crying or expressing her temper by using the following tips: 1) Give the child plenty of physical closeness. Pat, hold, hug, hum to, sing with, gently cuddle, and smile at her. 2) Be present and available. 3) Give the child plenty of deliberate attention. Look into her eyes and at her face to let her know you are there. Take your time when bonding. 4) Listen intently when the child talks. Wait for her to speak and look at her face while doing so. Don’t ask too many questions or interrupt.
Repeat what the child says back to her and let the child lead the way.
S
ometimes, there’s a specific trigger for crying or a tantrum, like tiredness, hunger, frustration, a sensory issue, being too hot or cold, a transition or interruption, etc. Other times, stress has been slowly building, and the trigger is just what causes the outburst at that moment. When a child needs to release tension, a temper tantrum enables her to do that.
L
et go of your own feelings about a child crying or having a temper tantrum. We don’t need to control children; we need to control our own feelings and our own behavior. We are here to guide our kids and to be with them.
A
s a caring and loving parent, you can support your child and enable her to feel and be safe while she releases what she needs to release. Try to accept the oncoming tantrum next time it starts. You and your child might just be relieved that you did!
K.T. Korngold is the C.E.O. of the Center for Montessori Education|NY, which offers programs for adults in Montessori teacher education and Montessori school administration and operates the Montessori Children’s Center, a model child-care center in White Plains. K.T. is a trained Montessori Infant and Toddler Specialist and has a master’s degree from Columbia University. Learn about CME and available programs at www.cmteny.com.
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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.
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.
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 48 I parentguide News I October 2013 IR_Oct
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
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B
efore getting pregnant, I was sure I’d be one of those glowing, Earth-mama types who’d spend nine months in prenatal bliss. After all, I’d spent years as a nanny, read tons of books on birth and pregnancy, and had major baby fever. But it wasn’t long after that positive pregnancy test that I realized: Growing a baby is full of surprises!
The First Trimester
Morning sickness is a misnomer. A few of my friends have skated through pregnancy without a wave of nausea and I am quite happy for them (and a bit jealous). For the rest of us, morning sickness can put a real wrench in the excitement of early pregnancy. I spent much of the first 16 weeks in bed, and not just in the morning — it was an all-day, every-day affair. I even lost weight, which was super nerve wracking, but apparently quite common.
You might not be that busty. I’ve always been a small-chested lady, so when my husband and I started trying for a baby, I was not-so-secretly excited for the enviable “pregnancy boobs” that everyone talks about. Granted, my breasts have grown over the past nine months, but not by more than half a cup size — not what I had in mind!
The “glow” won’t come until later. Another aspect The beginning of pregnancy can be a difficult time — your body is working nonstop and the physical and emotional adjustment can be bumpy. It’s normal for the initial excitement to wane as you navigate the ups and downs of these first few months, and don’t be surprised if it’s not as magical as you thought it would be. 50 I parentguide News I October 2013
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of pregnancy I was looking forward to: the radiant pregnancy glow. But the first trimester is your body’s time to adjust to the demands of a growing baby. And that means there will be kinks to work out. My early pregnancy “glow” consisted of nausea-induced sweating and chin acne...not so glamorous. parentguidenews.com
The Second Trimester The Third Trimester
By the time I hit the second trimester, I was drained and sure that all the books on “what to expect” had it 100-percent wrong. But they call this part of pregnancy “the honeymoon” for a reason. And although it’s never easy to grow a baby, months 4 through 6 are pretty magical most of the time.
Feeling the baby move is as wonderful as they promise. Though you may second guess yourself the first few times you feel that flutter or poke, you’ll soon realize that it’s indeed your sweet baby wiggling around and making her presence known. And suddenly, you’re in love. I spent countless hours on the couch enjoying those subtle (and then not-so-subtle) movements.
Your partner’s excitement will increase. When you’re growing a baby, you’re involved in the process every step of the way. But it can be difficult for your partner to feel included when there’s nothing he can do to help out. Don’t be discouraged if at first it feels like your other half is disconnected; the second trimester milestones will get him involved. Have him pitch in on the nursery projects (nothing makes the reality of a baby sink in like having a designated room for her!). And once your significant other feels the baby kick from the outside, he’ll be hooked to your belly and full of excitement.
Embarrassing moments happen. Though the second trimester is typically the easiest part of pregnancy, your body is still rapidly changing and your baby is growing bigger by the day. Sometimes these changes can create embarrassing situations (like audibly breaking wind in public or peeing your pants a little every time you sneeze...oops!). Do your best to roll with it, and maybe keep a change of underwear in your purse, just in case.
My pregnancy felt like it was going by so slowly for the first 30 weeks or so. In fact, every time someone mentioned how quickly I seemed to be progressing, I’d snap back with, “That’s because you’re not the one growing a human inside your body!” (We’ll blame those less-thansweet remarks on pregnancy hormones). Although time speeds up in the final stretch, I found that my body started to slow down, and the transition wasn’t always easy.
Grooming is hard! Seriously, try bending over to shave your legs while holding a watermelon at your torso and you’ll swear off shorts entirely. (A little tip: It’s easier if you’re sitting down in the bathtub, though not by much). As you near the end of pregnancy, it’s nice to feel groomed and put together, since so much of your body can get uncomfortable while you grow at an exponential pace. But take it from someone who attempted to paint her own toenails at 34 weeks pregnant: It’s worth investing in a little help.
Sleepless nights arrive before your newborn does. Everyone knows to expect very little sleep in the first few months of parenthood. However, I was shocked to find that sleeping toward the end of pregnancy is no easy task either! My very active baby often chose the middle of the night to practice her karate moves, and let me tell you, it’s impossible to sleep when someone is kicking you in the ribs. Add to that the achy shoulders and hips that come with sleeping on your side and frequent trips to the bathroom, and you’ll likely forget what a good night’s sleep feels like.
Strangers get friendly. This starts to happen in the second trimester and becomes even more pronounced in the third, when your belly gets so irresistibly round that strangers can’t help but comment. Yes, the constant advice and attempted belly rubs from random ladies at the grocery store are not always so fun. But the benefit is that people go out of their way to open doors, give up their seats, and check in to see how you’re feeling. It’s really lovely!
Despite the ups and downs, pregnancy is a sacred time and a wonderful gift. Perhaps the biggest surprise of all? Even with all the mishaps and surprises, I’d do it again in a heartbeat just to snuggle my sweet babe! Kim Guiley is a freelance writer who lives in San Francisco with her husband and baby daughter. Follow her musings on beauty, fashion, and life as a new mother at www.blendingbeautiful.com. your needs, your neighborhood
October 2013 I parentguide News I 51
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. 52 I parentguide News I October 2013
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your environmental OverReduce 5 Articles on chemical exposures. Over 6 Articles on
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.
Stuttering Potty Training -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?
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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).
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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 53
W
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. 54 I parentguide News I October 2013
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by Kristan Morley
Nail Art Stay on trend with the joys of nail art by customizing your own nail wraps with Jamberry Nails. Upload your own pictures or make your own designs at www.jamberrynails.com. Jamberry Nails have no harmful chemicals or odor. Perfect for everyday wear or special events, these nail wraps are applied at home and are fuss-free. Visit the website to view more than 275 patterns already offered.
New Mom Appeal Ameda Intimates Apparel Line is introducing a new collection for nursing mothers. The Ameda Nursing Bra and Nursing Camisole are made with a microfiber fabric free of harmful substances, which also helps prevent bacteria growth and odor. Breastfeeding on the go is a breeze with the one-hand release clasp. Both pieces have dual knit side panels
to help comfort and support the changing car, or just walking. The bag shape of a new mother. Purchase yours at has an internal frame, flat bottom, adjustable straps to wear www.amedadirect.com. as a backpack, and a variety of Summer Glow other ways to carry it. It has an As colder weather rolls in, insulated liner for any food that keep a perfect summer shade needs temperature control. It is with Pür Minerals eco-friendly, durable, lightweight, and can be Glow All Year Kit. folded up and stored in an easy fashion. Check The kit comes with it out at www.adkpackworks.com. Pout Plumping Lip Gloss in Oasis, Mineral Glow Deluxe Size A Great Night’s Sleep Bronzer, and Roll-On Illuminator. Keep Expecting womyour 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 Glow All Year Kit. of sleep, look no
Easy Carry Grocery Bag Carrying groceries from the supermarket to your home has never been easy, but now it can be. The Grocer from ADK Packworks is a revolutionized way to bring your groceries home via public transportation, taxi, in your
further than Destination Maternity’s Boppy Total Body Pillow from A Pea in the Pod. The pillow’s contoured design helps support your belly, back, head, and neck. A sound sleep can be 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 55
Health
by Kristan Morley
All-Natural Food Coloring
Stay Cool
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.
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.
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.
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.
56 I parentguide News I October 2013
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Our Travel Directory Travel is Expanding
by Kristan Morley Our Travel Directory is Expanding extra clothes, or food; and a small pocket for
Cute Carrier
Vacations offer opportunities for cherished memories that last forever, especially in pictures. Traveling with your camera has never been easier than with Camera Coats, an innovate way to shed those chunky camera bags. Each Camera Coat is padded, water resistant, and perfectly designed to fit the exact shape of your camera. Keep your camera secure wherever you are with Camera Coats. Visit www.cameracoats.com to see sizes and patterns.
Getaway Package for Mom
keys or money. The Daddy DiaperFamily Pack is Vacations, Excursions Loews Hotels & Resorts have mothers available at www.daddyscrubs.com. & Holiday Festivities in mind with their Mommymoon and Aftermoon packages. The Mommymoon, begins in November for new moms, includes a room or suite, Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Get Tangled Keep your favorite necklaces knot free on breakfast in bed, wine and cheese, discounted spa services, a movie in bed, and your next trip with The Necklace Saver. This Call 212-213-8840 to advertise more. The family-friendly Aftermoon travel accessory comes in a circular design www.parentguidenews.com that knots to keep a necklace from moving. package includes a room or suite, a movie, Each Necklace Saver is made of transparent spa discounts, treats for the kids, dinner, organza, which allows you to view jewelry and more. Book your getaway by Deceminside. Check out www.necklacesaver.com ber 29, 2013, at www.loewshotels.com. for more information.
Family Vacations, Excursions & Holiday Festivities begins in November
Tools On The Go Want to be a jack of all trades? The TaskOne Call 212-213-8840 to advertise Daddy on Duty iPhone case just revolutionized the phone case www.parentguidenews.com Daddy Scrubs is now offering the Daddy into a mobile toolbox. It comes with 22 tools, inDiaper Pack for on-the-go fathers. Stay organized with your child wherever you are. The Daddy Diaper Pack has side pockets for bottles; a large pouch for diapers, wipes,
cluding a knife, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, a ruler, etc. If you thought your iPhone already did everything, you thought wrong. Head to www.thetasklab.com to snag yours. Kristan Morley is the editorial intern.
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Our Travel Directory is Expanding Family Vacations, Excursions & Holiday Festivities begins in November Call 212-213-8840 to advertise www.parentguidenews.com your needs, your neighborhood
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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
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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October 2013 I parentguide News I 59
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SEPTEMBER 2010 October 2013
Suffolk
October 5: Diana Krall in Concert, The Tilles Center for the Performing Arts. LIU Post Campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville, (516)299-3100, www.tillescenter.org. Enjoy a memorable evening of music when the popular singer/songwriter brings her Rag Doll Tour to Nassau County. 8:30pm.
Nassau Manhattan PROOF October 1-7
PROOF
October 5 and 6: The Ladies Kennel Association of America Dog Show, Old Westbury Gardens, Old Westbury, (631)9281517. Old Westbury Gardens goes to the dogs during a special two-day event that will have visitors going canine crazy. 9am-3pm.
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
Queens
October 4: The Wiggles Taking Off Tour, NYCB Theatre at Westbury, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury, (800)745-3000, www.specialevents.livenation.com. After more than two decades entertaining kids around the world, the Wiggles are back and ready to introduce three brand new cast members. 6:30pm.
Westchester
October 5 and 6: The 2nd Annual Oktoberfest, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow, (516)572-0200. The beauty of Eisenhower Park provides the perfect backdrop for two days filled with live entertainment, traditional German food and drink, and much more. Noon-5pm.
SEPTEMBER 2010
October 5 and 6: Theatrical Production of Cinderella, The Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, (516)599-6870, www.licm.org. Plaza Theatrical Productions delights audiences of all ages by bringing the perennial favorite to life. 11am, 1pm, 3pm. October 6: The Divas Half Marathon, Eisenhower Park, Merrick Avenue and Park Boulevard, East Meadow, (516)5720218, www.nassaucountyny.gov. A fun half marathon and 5K unlike any other, participants get glam, enjoy a run and
, 100 Win $
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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. 60 I parentguide News I October 2013
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express their girl power! With a tiara and boa stop along the way, toast your accomplishment at the finish, receive a rose and get your picture taken with your blinged out finisher’s medal. 8am. October 6: Images of America - Nunley’s Amusement Park, The Cradle of Aviation Museum, 51 Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City, (516)792-1910, www.cradleofaviation. org. Cradle of Aviation invites families to visit the famed Nunley’s carousel and listen to local author Marisa L. Berman share the story of this beloved Long Island park through a collection of vintage images from the new book, Images of America: Nunley’s Amusement Park. 6-7:30pm.
PROOF
October 6: Open House, Red Robin Country Day School and Camp, 878 Jericho Turnpike, Westbury, (516)334-1144, www. redrobincountrydayschoolandcamp.com. Tour the grounds, meet with instructors and explore the curriculum during an informative Open House program. 11am-3pm.
4510, www.michaelmagrofoundation.com. Eisenhower Park is the ideal place for families during a special evening event designed to benefit the Cancer Center for Kids at Winthrop University Hospital, pediatric specialty practices at other hospitals, and scholarship funds.
October 8 - 16
Proof
October 12: The Fall Festival, Hicks Nurseries, 100 Jericho Turnpike Westbury, (516)334-0066. Hicks Nurseries hosts an annual celebration that includes hayrides, farm animals, a cider tent, roasted corn, popcorn, fudge apples, and autumn flowers. October 31.
www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 October 7: An Evening of Tasting and Giving, Eisenhower Park, 1899 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, (516)935-
October 12 and 13: Long Island Book & Ephemera Fair, Hofstra Student Center Hempstead Turnpike, Hempstead, (516)8682751, www.libookfair.com. The unique two-day event featuring books and ephemera, with paper in every category, prints and post cards too.
For more exciting, family-friendly events in the tri-state area, visit www.parentguidenews.com now
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OCTOBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2010
October 16: The Annual Haunted Halloween Party, The Tackapausha Museum, 2215 Washington Ave., Seaford, (516)571-7443. The museum celebrates the season with a day that features animal presentations, crafts, games and more. Costumes are welcome and encouraged. 1pm.
October 12 and 13: The Nassau County Craft and Gift Show, The Schoolhouse Green, Foxhurst Road, Oceanside, www.nassaucountycraftshows.com. Uncover a totally unique destination where consumers of all ages can interact and take advantage of bargains galore. The twoday extravaganza features an array of handmade jewelry, home decor, clothing, hand-blown glass, and food. October 17: Tea and Chocolate Pairing, Mill Neck Fam10am-6pm. ily of Organizations, 40 Frost Mill Road, Mill Neck Manor House, (516)628-4243, www.millneck.org. Join 419 Park AvenueMill South,Neck, New York, NY 10016 â&#x20AC;˘ 212-213-8840 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax 212-447-7734 October 13: Craft Expo in the Park, Thomas Park, 92 Forstaff members in the Mill Neck Manor House for a Tea and est Ave., Locust Valley, (631)563-8551, www.preferredChocolate Pairing with a certified to: FAx # tea specialist from the protions.com. The Locust Valley Chamber of Commerce Clipper Ship Tea Company. Experience 5 tea and chocolate presents a wonderful afternoon for the entire family. 10ampairings during the event and bring home a sample of tea From: iSSue DAte: 4pm. Free admission. and coupons to the Clipper Ship Tea Co. 7-9pm.
October 17 - 24
, ProoF what s happening
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SEPTEMBER 2010
October 12: Pumpkin Carving Contest, Hicks Nurseries, October 19: Apple Festival, 4755 Merrick Road, MassPlease(516)799-2023, call or fax your comments and/or oK. 100 Jericho Turnpike Westbury, (516)334-0066, www. apequa, www.massapequahistoricalsociety. hicksnurseries.com. Hicks Nurseries hosts a special contest org. Long Island apples, homemade pie, hot dogs, crafts, oF APProvAl: that includes categories like Best Carved Pumpkin, SigNAture Best music, trash and treasure, and face painting are all a part of Decorated Pumpkin, Scariest Pumpkin and Funniest Pumpthis wonderful day long celebration. 10am-4pm. kin and Best Carved by a child (12 and under). Registration 1 pm, judging begins promptly at 2pm. October 19 and 20: Craft and Gift Shows, Cedar Creek
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Park, Merrick Road, Seaford, (516)442-6000, www.nassaucountycraftshows.com. Discover a unique destination where emerging and established artisans, craft and gift vendors offer their handpicked items at recognizable savings. From handblown glass, Jewelry, home decor, furniture paintings, toys and much much more. 10am-5pm. October 19: The Fall Freshwater Fishing & Children’s Festival, Hempstead Lake State Park, West Hempstead, (516)766-1029. This family-oriented fall event features outdoor exhibits from local fishing clubs, fly fishing instruction, hands-on demonstrations, loaner fishing rods, face painting, pony rides, and a magic show. October 19 and 20: The Haunted Halloween Event, Old Bethpage Village Restoration, 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage, (516)572-8400. Get into the “spirit” of the season during two special weekends that include a monster scavenger hunt, spooky tales, carving demonstrations, broom making for witches, and much more! Presented again on October 26 and 27.
School, 322 Port Washington Boulevard, Port Washington, (516)365-4900, www.vincentsmithschool.org. Find out more about the place where success begins at Long Island’s premier school for addressing the needs of students with learning disabilities such as ADD, ADHD, Asperger Syndrome, Expressive & Receptive Language Issues. Noon-3pm.
October 25 - November 3
October 26 and 27: The Freeport Gem and Mineral Show, w.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840
October 19 and 20: Oyster Festival, Theodore Roosevelt Park, West End Ave., Oyster Bay, (516)628-1625, www. theoysterfestival.org. An amazing annual event for visitors of all ages features great food, tours, live entertainment, more than 50 vendors and much more. 11am-6pm. October 20: Admissions Open House, Vincent Smith
Freeport Recreation Center 130 E. Merrick Rd., Freeport, (631)271-8411, kaleidoscopegemshows.com. Pay a visit to this weekend event featuring dealers selling minerals, gems, jewelry, fossils, beads, goldsmith & silversmith, meteorites & prehistoric fossils. October 26: The Garden City Street Fair, 190 Seventh St. between Franklin and Hilton Aves., Garden City, (516)7467724, nassaucountycraftshows.com. The town of Garden City comes alive with amazing sights and sounds during a celebration that includes trackless trains, a money cube, activities for kids, live entertainment, handmade crafts and gift ideas, and much more. 10am-3pm.
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All Month Long
OCTOBER 2013 SEPTEMBER 2010 October 26 and 27: The Rockville Centre Fall Festival, Rockville Centre Commuter Lot, Sunrise Highway and Long Beach Road, Rockville Centre, (631)724-5966, www. showtiques.com. Fall festival with arts and crafts exhibitors, gift vendors and food. Free admission.
Ongoing Through January 5: Broken? Fix It!, The Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, (516)224-5800, www.licm.com. Be the first to explore this new hands-on exhibit where children and adults learn to diagnose problems, then roll up their sleeves and get inside the repair process. Open Tues. - Sun., 10am-5pm.
, what s happening
October 26: Sir James Galway and the Irish Chamber Orchestra, The Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post Campus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville, (516)2993100, www.tillescenter.org. Enjoy James at his finest during a special musical performance. October 26: The Wizard of Oz, Broadhollow Theatre, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, (516)775-4420, www.broadhollow.org. Tag along with Dorothy and all of her friends as they venture to the Emerald City to find a brain, a heart, courage, and a way back home. Presented again on November 2. 2pm. October 27: Haunted Hamlet, The Oyster Bay Historical Society, 20 Summit St., Oyster Bay, (516)922-5032, www. oysterbayhistorical.org. Get your little ones into the Halloween spirit with a day that includes children’s activities, face painting, games and more. 1-4 pm. Admission free. October 27: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point, (516)571-7900. Talented members of the Dicapo Opera Theatre come together to bring the Washington Irving classic to life before your eyes, just in time for Halloween! 4 - 5pm. November 2 and 3: The Baldwin Fall Festival, Baldwin Rail Road Station, Sunrise Highway and Railroad Avenue, Baldwin, (631)724-5966, www.showtiques.com. Discover an array of arts and crafts, fine antiques and much more. 10am-5pm. Free admission. November 3: Special Education Fair, Vincent Smith School, 322 Port Washington Boulevard, Port Washington, (516)365-4900, www.vincentsmithschool.org. Meet Representatives of Long Island’s leading service providers for after school recreation, parent support groups, educational support, transition planning, summer/camp programs, educational testing, and more. Noon-3pm. Free admission.
Sundays: The Next Step, Mid-Island Y JCC, 45 Manetto Hill Road, Plainview, (516)822-3535. Program offers teens with special needs in grades 7-12 the opportunity to develop basic leadership skills and perform community service. Meets two Sundays per month, 1-3:30pm. Call for a schedule.
SEPTEMBER 2010
Sundays through Fridays: Support Groups, Friedberg JCC, 15 Neil Court, Oceanside, (516)634-4010, www. friedbergjcc.org. A variety of groups are offered at various times. Included are Caring for the Caregiver, Loss and Bereavement I and II, Unemployment, Divorce and Separation I and II, Women’s Issues, Single Parents, Couple Fair Fighting, Pre-Marriage Counseling, and more. Babysitting may be available. Call for specific information. Mondays: JASA AZORS Help Caregiver’s Support Group, Temple Emanu-El of Long Beach, 455 Neptune Boulevard, Long Beach, (516)742-2050. This support group is for those caring for someone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. New participants should call before coming to the group. Free. Held the second Monday of the month. 12:30-2pm. Mondays: Free Breast Cancer Support Group, Adelphi University School of Social Work, Garden City, (516)8774314. This group welcomes anyone who has tested positive for breast cancer during genetic testing. Sessions are free. Call for required registration. 7-8:30pm. Starts February 25 and runs through April. Mondays and Wednesdays: Alzheimer’s Opportunity for Respite & Socialization Program, Temple EmanuEl of Long Beach, 455 Neptune Boulevard, Long Beach, (516)432-0570. A program for adults, ages 60 and older who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. This program provides meaningful and purposeful recreational activities and increased socialization among peers. Recreational activities include cooking, exercise, relaxation, dance, music, discussion groups and more. A nutritious kosher lunch and snacks are provided.
In order to ensure the best possible experience at community events and programs, please check with the host before attending in case details have changed. 64 I parentguide News I October 2013
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Transportation may be arranged to the JCC. An interview is required. 10am-2pm. Mondays to Fridays: Breast Cancer Support Groups, Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program, most groups held at the Adelphi Breast Cancer Program, School of Social Work, Adelphi University in Garden City, offices: (516)8774314, hotline: (800)877-8077, www.adelphi.edu/nysbreastcancer. Individual, group and telephone counseling are available, along with a 24/7 hotline staffed by trained volunteers who have had breast cancer. Groups offered include: Women with Breast Cancer, Young Women with Breast Cancer, Women with Metastatic Breast Cancer, Telephone Support for Women with Breast Cancer, and more. Pre-registration required. Call for start dates and to find out about other groups, including those for couples, teens, family members, and men with breast cancer. Tuesdays: Breast Cancer Phone Support, (516)877-4314. The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program offers a new telephone support group for women with breast cancer. If you or someone you know cannot physically attend a breast cancer support group for any reason, this is a wonderful alternative for a forum. The weekly group allows women to speak with breast cancer survivors and patients, along with a social work facilitator, on conference calls. Sessions run 10:30am-noon. Call to register or obtain details. Tuesdays: Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders Parent Support Group, Grace Lutheran Church & School, 400 Hempstead Avenue, Malverne, (516)887-3371. Meets the first Tuesday of every month at 7pm. Wednesdays: Mothers’ Group, The Wednesday Mothers’ Club of Floral Park, United Methodist Church, 35 Verbena Ave., Floral Park, (516)270-3573, (516)775-2576, wmcmembership@hotmail.com. A non-denominational social and support group for expectant mothers and mothers of children in kindergarten or younger. Activities include monthly Mom’s Night Out, social events, educational programs, new mom meals, community outreach and playgroup sessions. Newsletter available. Thursdays: Grandparent Advocates Supporting Autistic Kids, North Shore Child and Family Guidance Center, 480 Old Westbury Road, Roslyn Heights, (516)626-1971, www.northshorechildguidance.org. This support and advocacy group is for concerned grandparents of autistic children. All adult family members are welcome. Meetings take place the last Thursday of every month (except December), 11:30am-1pm. Thursdays: Grandparent Advocates Supporting Autistic Kids (GASAK), Sid Jacobson JCC, 300 Forest Drive, East
For more exciting, family-friendly events in the tri-state area, visit
www.parentguidenews.com your needs, your neighborhood
Hills, (516)484-1545. Grandparents of children with autism meet to support each other, share information and advocate for their families. Meets the third Thursday of the month. Call for additional meeting dates. 1-2:30pm. Thursdays: Kindred Spirits Support Group, Winthrop-University Hospital, 259 First St., Mineola, (516)663-2350, www.winthrop.org. Support group for children of all ages with diabetes and their families. Meets monthly. Call for further details. Fridays: Parent Discussion Group, Parenting Resource Network, Friedberg JCC, 15 Neil Court, Oceanside, (516)6344192, www.parentingresourcenetwork.org. This free discussion group aids in processing the many complicated issues faced by parents. Topics range from anger diffusion and self-esteem to time out and discipline. Held twice a month. Childcare is available for a small fee with advance reservation. Call to reserve a spot. 10am. Fridays: Moms’ Group, The Mothers’ Center of Southwest Nassau, 100 Main St., East Rockaway, (516)599-7788, www.swnassauny.motherscenter.org. A discussion group for new Mothers’ Center members where moms can meet and share the joys and challenges of motherhood. Childcare is provided during group time. Call to learn more about the center and other groups and social events available.
SEPTEM
Fridays: Alzheimer’s Opportunity for Respite & Socialization Program, Friedberg JCC, 15 Neil Court, Oceanside, (516)432-0570. A program for adults, ages 60 and older who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. This program provides meaningful and purposeful recreational activities and increased socialization among peers. Recreational activities include cooking, exercise, relaxation, dance, music, discussion groups and more. A nutritious kosher lunch and snacks are provided. Transportation may be arranged to the JCC. An interview is required. 10am-2pm. Saturdays: Play Dates, All About Kids, 255 Executive Drive, LL 108, Plainview, (516)576-2040, www.allaboutkidsny.com. Sensory Social Motor Play Dates for children ages 3-5. Children negotiate a colorful and fun obstacle course with peers. 1-2:15pm or 2-3:15pm.
SEPTEMBER 2010
, what s happening? SEPTEM 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 Donald McDermott: Donald@parentguidenews.com October 2013 I parentguide News I 65
In
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. 66 I parentguide News I October 2013
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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.
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