October 2014 NR

OCTOBER 2014

Party if You Want to with our Birthday Directory

Homework

How to get focused

Special Needs

CUTE DIY COSTUMES

IEP Meetings & Lawyers

Health Section

Childhood Obesity www.parentguidenews.com Over 1,000 Exciting Family Events NR

Wondering Where to have your kid’s next party???

For over 25 years iMagine that!!! has designed parties for every budget.

party specials $209.99 • SUPERHEROES – October 11 • SPOOKTACULAR – October 31 • SAnTA – November 28 December 6, 20 & 21

I parentguide News I October 2014

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contents contents

table of

table of

October 2014 Volume 31 • Number 10

October 2014 Volume 31 • Number 10 Orchard Hours • 9-5 Pick your own Hotline:

Contests

Birthday Coverage

973-425-0840 Fall into Autumn Photo Contest.................................. 25 Birthday Blowout..........................................................

Kiddies’ Corn 27

Slumber Party Success...... 26 Host an unforgettable birthday sleepover.

Columns

Birthday Directory................ 28 Party places and entertainers for the happiest of occasions.

Pit Play Area (ages 2-6)

Hayrides & Mazeland

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

6 Try the Pumpkin P. 26

This month’s entertainment and activities.Slingshot

A Farm Forever Health............................................................................

Hayrides & Pick-Your-Own-Pumpkin 34 Insight and items for your family’s care.

Special Needs

P. 14

The IEP Meeting.......... 14

Wightman’s Farms Travel.............................................................................

36 Store open daily 8amtips. to 6pm Destinations, product picks, and getaway 973-425-9819 Update..........................................................................

Visit our website @ www.wightmansfarms.com 42 Essential products forofyour brood.

Rt.and 202information (5 miles south Morristown)

Should you bring a lawyer?

P. 16

Honesty and LDs......... 16

Why it’s important to speak openly about learning disabilities.

Special Needs Directory.. 22 Experts and services catering to special needs.

Bonus

Calendar of Events....................................................... 37 A comprehensive listing of your classes, events, and Homet dlyneighborhood’s own Service! ien performances.

Fr

The

Cover Credit: Sara Publisher Steve Elgort Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina

Health & Fitness

Childhood Obesity.......... 10

Prevention and treatment options.

P. 10

Features

Donald McDermott Toys forManaging children Editor of all ages!

Full line ofAssociate Dolls & Accessories.

Editor Samantha Chan Party favors. Complete line of Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli Webkinz & accessories. Playmobile, Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski Tween Accessories.

Madame Alexander Dolls, Steiff,Teresa Erector, Accounting Pinargote Thomas, Schleich, Klutz Activity Contributing Writers Dr. Jane Frederick, Felicia Harris, Books. & Baby Products.

Dr. KeithNewborn, Kantor, Dr.Infant Stephanie Kirschbaum, Abby Larson, Great baby Shower Gifts too!

Ellyn Levy, Louise Weadock Custom Made Wooden Toys

Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti

Homework Help........................................ 8 Tips to improve focus.

Advertising Sales Representatives

Costume Craft.......................................... 12

Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, 10:30Julie - Leonoff, 6:00 Daily JenniferCall Serpi,Sundays Amy Smith, Rena Spangler, Felicia Stafford, Gift Certificates Available PGTV Producer Beth Elgort 845-732-9711

Create a couple of easy but inspired Halloween outfits.

PCOS and Pregnancy........................... 20 P. 8

What you need to know about polycystic ovarian syndrome.

your needs, your neighborhood

Submission of articles, photographs and artwork is welcome. All material must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

PARENTGUIDE News assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage of submitted material. PARENTGUIDE News reserves the unrestricted right to edit or otherwise alter submitted material for publication. PARENTGUIDE News, ISSN08961468, is published monthly by PG Media Network Corp., 101 E. Park Ave., #358, Long Beach, NY 11561; 212-213-8840. Copyright 2013 PGMNC. All rights reserved.

44 East Central Ave., Pearl River, NY

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October 2014 I parentguide News I

contents contents

table of

table of

October 2014 Volume 31 • Number 10

October 2014 Volume 31 • Number 10

Contests

Birthday Coverage

Fall into Autumn Photo Contest.................................. 25 Birthday Blowout.......................................................... 27

Slumber Party Success...... 26 Host an unforgettable birthday sleepover.

Columns

Birthday Directory................ 28 Party places and entertainers for the happiest of occasions.

Don’t Miss........................................................................ 6 P. 26

This month’s entertainment and activities.

Health............................................................................ 34 Insight and items for your family’s care.

Special Needs

P. 14

Travel............................................................................. 36 Destinations, product picks, and getaway tips.

The IEP Meeting.......... 14

Update.......................................................................... 42 Essential products and information for your brood.

Should you bring a lawyer?

P. 16

Honesty and LDs......... 16

Why it’s important to speak openly about learning disabilities.

Special Needs Directory.. 22 Experts and services catering to special needs.

Bonus

Calendar of Events....................................................... 37 A comprehensive listing of your neighborhood’s classes, events, and performances.

Cover Credit: Sara Publisher Steve Elgort Editor-in-Chief Rachel Kalina Managing Editor Donald McDermott

Health & Fitness

Associate Editor Samantha Chan

Childhood Obesity.......... 10

Art Directors Margaret Baldauf, Susanne Kimball, Ilana Rispoli

Prevention and treatment options.

Director of Web Development Kristen Jankowski Accounting Teresa Pinargote

P. 10

Contributing Writers Dr. Jane Frederick, Felicia Harris, Dr. Keith Kantor, Dr. Stephanie Kirschbaum, Abby Larson, Ellyn Levy, Louise Weadock

Features

Homework Help........................................ 8

Advertising Managers Deirdre Antoniello, Karen Gibofsky, Bill Scalzitti

Costume Craft.......................................... 12

Advertising Sales Representatives Julie Leonoff, Jacalyn Rose, Susan Rush, Jennifer Serpi, Amy Smith, Rena Spangler, Felicia Stafford,

Tips to improve focus.

Create a couple of easy but inspired Halloween outfits.

PCOS and Pregnancy........................... 20 P. 8

What you need to know about polycystic ovarian syndrome.

I parentguide News I October 2014

PGTV Producer Beth Elgort Submission of articles, photographs and artwork is welcome. All material must include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

PARENTGUIDE News assumes no responsibility for the loss or damage of submitted material. PARENTGUIDE News reserves the unrestricted right to edit or otherwise alter submitted material for publication. PARENTGUIDE News, ISSN08961468, is published monthly by PG Media Network Corp., 101 E. Park Ave., #358, Long Beach, NY 11561; 212-213-8840. Copyright 2013 PGMNC. All rights reserved.

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Letter from the Editor Oh, how I adore October! Leaves take on a new, vibrant spectrum of color, creating a splendid autumnal backdrop. There are all sorts of fall fairs and festivals (found in our print and Web calendars) filled with cider, pumpkin picking, and hayrides. The best part, though? Halloween and the opportunities it presents to make crafts, decorations, and costumes! I’ve enjoyed the spooky celebration for as long as I can remember. My husband and I often host parties where dress up is mandatory (yes, I’m that person), and it’s such great fun.

To help your family get into the spirit of the season, we’re excited to share “Costume Craft” by wedding and lifestyle blogger, as well as D.I.Y. expert, Abby Larson. Larson’s thousands of followers regularly check her Style Me Pretty blogs for inspired living tips, and this month, she instructs PARENTGUIDE News readers how to create two easy but adorable outfits for little ones.

And there’s even more reason to get into fiesta preparation this month with our Birthday Directory. In it, you’ll find tons of party venues, entertainers, and services to make your child’s day a special one. Perhaps, you’d rather host a special birthday night? Then turn to “Slumber Party Success”

Proof

U

by Rachel Kalina

by Felicia Harris, which details how to host a memorable sleepover with snacks, games, and fun activities.

Of course, when the parties are over, it’s time to get back to the grind. With help from Louise Weadock, your after-school routine can be a lot more pleasant from now on. Read “Homework Help” for tips on how to get kids focused for study sessions.

And for parents stressing about upcoming Individualized Education Program (IEP) developments for their child with special needs, Ellyn Levy has penned “The IEP Meeting.” Levy outlines the pros and cons of hiring a lawyer to help with IEPs, and gives us a firsthand account of her personal experiences in this area. Additional support, resources, and programs for your child may also be found in our Special Needs Directory.

Don’t forget all of the virtual goodies available at www.parentguidenews.com: The Sandbox Social mommy blog, contests with prizes, and even more articles to help you be the best parent you can be.

PROOF

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Have a great October and a happy Halloween!

for this Log k o o Lo Th rou g

hout the Is

! e su

This is your opportunity to win some very exciting products and/or services featured in this issue’s Update, Travel, and Health columns.

Log onto www.parentguidenews.com, find the “Win This Product” logo on our homepage, follow some simple directions, and good luck.

• Weekend family hayrides with pick-your-own-pumpkin beginning the weekend after Labor Day • Group hayrides by appointment (Monday-Friday only) • All varieties of apples, fruits and vegetables try th • Fresh baked pies, donuts

Down on the farm at

WiGhtMAn’s FArMs

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A Farm Forever

rt. 202 (5 miles south of Morristown) Open daily 8am to 6pm

973-425-9819 Visit our website @

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your needs, your neighborhood

October 2014 I parentguide News I

DON’T MISS What a Day

A popular children’s book comes to the big screen in Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. The entertaining flick follows 11-year-old Alexander as he experiences the most terrible and horrible day of his young life. Check it out in theaters beginning October 10.

Living Life

The journey of Manolo, a young man torn between his family and following his heart, is the focus of The Book of Life.

The animated feature encourages audiences to celebrate the past while looking to the future. Look for it in a theater near you beginning October 17.

October

by Donald McDermott

Halloween Ponies

Ring in Halloween with the new My Little Pony – Friendship Is Magic: Spooktacular Pony Tales! Presented by Shout! Factory Kids and Hasbro Studios, the DVD release features six episodes and a sing-along, as well as additional spooky-themed fun. Copies are available in stores and online now.

All Shapes and Sizes

Nickelodeon expands its line of acclaimed Let’s Learn DVDs with Let’s Learn: Patterns and Shapes.

Kids can play along with five new episodes from Team Umizoomi, Dora the Explorer, and Blue’s Clues as they explore circles, squares, triangles, and more. Created by Nickelodeon Home Entertainment, the new DVD is available now.

Monster Challenges

A Movie Mystery

The Hallmark Movies & Mysteries series presents Garage Sale Mysteries. Lori Laughlin stars as Jennifer Shannon, a veteran garage sale shopper with a knack for finding hidden treasures.The original film premieres on The Hallmark Channel October 26.

Check you local listings for times.

Happy Halloween

An annual tradition continues this month when ABC Family presents a 13-night programming tribute to Halloween. Aside from holiday-themed episodes of the most popular shows, viewers can also enjoy movies like The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Addams Family, Casper, ParaNorman, and many more. The special event runs October 19-31. Check your local listings.

To Infinity

Play as some of your favorite heroes with the Infinity 2.0 Marvel Value Pack. The specially priced set comes with a starter pack, Spider-Man play set, Captain America, and a disc pack. The pack is available now for the XBox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4,WiiU, and XBox One game systems.

Join Cookie Monster and head back to school with a new app from PBS Kids and Sesame Street. Cookie Monster’s Challenge offers a mix of whimsy and education designed to help kids ages 3-5 adapt to the new school year. Featuring ten mini games, nine levels, and more, the app is available for the iPad.

Under the Spell

Just in time for Halloween, Sabrina — Secrets of a Teenage Witch: A Witch and a Werewolf The Movie comes to DVD and Digital HD. The animated release from Lionsgate Home Entertainment follows the charming Sabrina Spellman as she leads a double life as both a klutzy high schooler and superhero sorceress. Pick up your copy today.

Just for Kicks

Soccer comes to life in stunning detail in FIFA 15. The amazing game from EA Sports comes complete with more than 600 new emotional reactions.

FIFA 15 is available in stores and online now for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii, and Nintendo 3DS. Donald McDermott is the managing editor.

I parentguide News I October 2014

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October

Transform Your World

The Big Apple Circus is back under the Big Top at Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center in Manhattan starting October 17. The magic continues for 135 performances and concludes January 11, 2015. The 37th season brings about Metamorphosis, which is both mesmerizing and astonishing. Bring your brood to the circus where every audience member is entertained and never more than 50-feet from the stage. Visit www.bigapplecircus.org or call (888)541-3750 for information on tickets and showtimes.

by Donald McDermott

Outdoor Excitement

The Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, makes it a month that families will always remember. Upcoming events include: Full Moon Hike on October 8, Seasonal Scavenger Hunt on October 11, Haunted Forest on October 18 and 19, Little Naturalists on October 20, and Creatures of the Night on October 26. For a full list of events, contact the Center at (201)568-6093 or visit www.tenaflynaturecenter.org.

19 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734

Happy in Hoboken

Proof

Imagine That!

Fright Fest

The Hoboken Museum makes it a The Imagine That! Museum hosts Octomarvelous month by hosting an array FAx # Enjoy family-friendly thrills by day and ber occurrences for all to enjoy. The fun of great events for the entire family. spine-tingling frights by night when begins with a fully interactive Superheroes Scheduled events include Uptown Fright Fest returns to Six Flags Great rOm: program on October 11, and it ends with iSSue DAte: Storytime on October 2 and 16, Adventure! Presented by Snickers every the Spooktacular holiday celebration on The Heirloom Garlic Tasting Festival Friday to Sunday (and Columbus Day Monday) through October 31. Families are also welcome on October 12, and the popular November 2, theOK. amazing annual event features a TrickPlease call or fax your comments and/or to visit the museum’s amazing outdoor or-Treat Trail, Monster Mash Bash, Haunted Trail Rides, Hoboken House Tour on October maze throughout the month. Located at 26. To reserve your place or to find and more Halloween-themed smiles and screams than igNAture OF APPrOvAl: 4 Vreeland Road in Florham Park, Imagine ever before. Six Flags Great Adventure is located off Exit out more, call (201)656-2240 or go That! can be reached at (973)966-8000 or 7A of the New Jersey Turnpike, Jackson. Questions? Call to www.hobokenmuseum.com. via www.imaginethatmuseum.com for more (732)928-2000 or visit www.sixflags.com. information.

Donald McDermott is the managing editor.

O:

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Proof

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201-967-2928 516 River Road - New Milford October 2014 I parentguide News I

Homework Help Tips to improve focus.

by Louise Weadock

The beginning of the school year can be such an exciting time. There are thrilling bus rides and lunches with novel faces, hallway hugs with old friends, and of course, new teachers and subjects to explore. Although once the sense of adventure wears off and the assignments pile up, the nightly fight to wrangle a successful homework session begins.

Homework time is commonly identified as one of the biggest causes of anxiety for both children and parents during the school year. As head coaches, parents are challenged to find ways to get kids “fit” for academic exercises. They help with strategies to optimize learning potential.

A child’s mind develops with sensory challenges from different smells, tastes, sounds, colors, lights, physical feelings, and other forms of input. Spending the day sitting in a classroom can fail to fulfill a child’s need for various types of stimulation, and the short time slots allotted to recess and gym don’t compensate for this sensory deficiency. Parents must find ways to fill in the sensory gap.

Luckily, there are proven methods that help to engage a child’s senses and mind right from the moment he steps off the bus at the end of the school day through homework time that evening. With practice, these methods just may change otherwise stressful routines into positive experiences.

Begin with muscle movement.

Nothing can fulfill a child’s need to burn energy and take in sensory stimulation quite like a workout of the muscles. Whether through outdoor play or an indoor fitness program, engaging in activities that involve climbing, swinging, running, or biking can help to fire up sensoryprocessing to the brain and decrease anxiety. Such activities loosen joints and enhance overall awareness. A good workout can also enhance relationships between children and their surroundings. It can improve the child’s overall sense of self by stimulating the vestibular system, located within the inner ear, which increases athletic coordination and spatial awareness.

Just 45 minutes of movement and hands-on physical activity before school or homework time loosens muscle tension, oxygenates the brain, promotes healthy circulation, builds focus, and fulfills sensory needs. Muscle activity supports the comprehension of big thoughts and persistence to complete complex projects.

Additionally, information learned while performing motorplanning exercises (trampolining, jump roping, hiking, and biking) is more quickly absorbed and stays in memory for a longer period of time than facts learned while merely sitting.

Help children prepare sensory snacks.

If there is one thing that every parent understands, it is that a hungry child is an antsy child. So, start your homework routine with a snack. Food can be calming and fulfilling.

The hands-on nature of preparing food has the additional benefit of keeping children active as they get ready to work. Smells and tastes experienced while learning create memory pegs for the child. Measurements, fractions, mixtures, and nutritional facts all present learning opportunities that the child will remember.

While preparing snacks, discuss the upcoming homework topics. Strategize a plan of attack. Identify areas where help is needed.

Children are calmed through the input of different smells, tastes, and textures that abound.

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Develop a quiet, calm, and consistent homework space.

Smells, colors, lights, and sounds are great when we are trying to fulfill our sensory needs, but homework time requires a calm, clean, clutter-free, and consistent space to prevent children from being distracted by their surroundings. Use putty on pencils to make them easier to hold. If the child can tolerate it, turn on soothing background music (preferably classical) to set a calm mood.

Turn off the TV, and minimize other sources of distracting sounds and flashing lights. Homework should be the sole focus of the moment. Experiment a little bit to find out exactly what sources of sensory input optimize your child’s homework productivity, and understand that these will be different for every child.

Offer minor sensory input to improve focus and concentration.

Kitchen smells from dinner or dessert that waft into the homework area can provide minor sensory input without being distracting.

Some children respond well to textured toys that keep one hand fidgeting, while others prefer the feel and taste of chewing gum. Still others like visual patterns to keep the mind occupied.

Homework should be the focus of homework time, but it is unrealistic to expect any child to be able to attune 100 percent of his brainpower to a worksheet. Minor sensory distractions can go a long way toward curbing restlessness without costing productivity.

Experiment and listen to your child to find what works.

Segment homework time into different blocks.

Any child will dread the idea of having to sit down for an hour of homework, but most children are more willing to sit through several 10- to 20-minute blocks of it. After a set amount of time, offer your child a 5- to 10-minute break. If a short break is chosen, provide more sensory-pleasing activities like cooking or an art project to lessen restlessness before it’s time to get back to work. Stay away from the computer or tablet screens during sensory time.

Don’t “helicopter,” but do keep homework sessions lighthearted.

Homework shouldn’t be stressful. Be mindful of the signals that you put out, even if you feel frustrated, and be attuned to your child’s moods. Children respond to the moods and mindsets of their parents. If you are anxiously hovering over your child’s paper, your child may sense and mime your attitude.

Instead, keep calm, collected, and on target. Treat homework as an adventure, and your child will positively respond.

Avoid phone, tablet, and computer games in the hours leading up to homework time. Playing a video game employs the short muscle group, which is reactive and counteracts the brain activity required for homework completion.

Louise Weadock MPH, RN, is the founder of WeeZee – The Science of Play, an 18,000-square-foot play and learning facility for children all ages and abilities at 480 Bedford Road, Chappaqua, New York. The mom of two is also a registered child psychiatric nurse with 30 years of ASD/ SID research experience, including research at Johns Hopkins University.

Weadock is a known sensory stimulation expert and has written articles for a variety of parenting publications. For more information, call (914)752-2100 or visit www.weezeeworld.com. your needs, your neighborhood

October 2014 I parentguide News I

by Dr. Keith Kantor

D O O H D L I CH

Y T I S BE ns.

t optio n e m t a e r t d n ntion a

Preve

Childhood obesity rates remain high in the United States of America. Obesity is defined as an accumulation of body fat to the extent of which it may have a negative impact on health and increase the risk for chronic diseases. The varying causes of childhood obesity include a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, genetics, and socioeconomic status. Two main treatments for obesity involve changes in exercise and diet.

A

n exercise plan for a child should be fun and match his personality. It is not wise to force a child into the same fitness regimen an adult would follow. If your child is not competitive, then don’t force him to participate in competitive sports. Instead, find other active programs he can do outside of organized sports. Children should daily engage in leisure play that requires movement for at least one hour or more. Taking your child to the park, playing catch, shooting hoops, going for a walk, etc., all provide economical ways to encourage fitness. Also, limit television, computer, and tablet time to only one hour per day. This will not only encourage more healthy activity in general, but also increase creativity during playtime.

One important thing to remember is that the best guidance is through example. Children are great observers, and they can spot a hypocrite. “Do as I say, not as I do” is no way to inspire a child to be active and eat healthy foods. Make small lifestyle changes with your children. Regular park trips or walks for exercise and daily eating five servings of fruit and vegetables present simple ways to get started.

Limit sodas and sugary, salty, or processed treats to specific times. First, educate your children about the downfalls of eat-

In the United States,

17% of children

ages 2-19

are classified as obese and have a body mass index higher than 30. BMI is a representation of height compared to weight. An optimal BMI range is

18.5-24.99.

ing and drinking too much sugar. Talk about tooth and tummy aches and gaining excessive body fat. Then, move on to limiting intake to particular times like after practice or Saturdays at lunch. If you do away with soda and sugar altogether, chances are your children will be unhappy. This compromise keeps their consumption special and creates realistic boundaries.

Plan and cook healthy meals and snacks together as a family. Children love hands-on activities. If they help prepare a nutritious meal, it is more likely they will eat it. Depending on the age of your children, the level of help they can offer will vary. Start by getting them to contribute to your shopping list and excursions, as well as having them set the table and mix ingredients. There are many different ways to involve kids of all ages in the process of making a healthy meal. And spending time together as a family is priceless. Studies have shown that families who eat meals together are much closer than those who don’t.

Always include healthy fats in each meal and snack.

Fat is not what makes us gain weight; sugar and processed foods are what pack on the pounds. Incorporating healthy fats from nuts, seeds, nut butters, avocados, hummus, and healthy oils will keep your child feeling full for a longer period of time. This reduces food cravings for processed snacks that are rich in sodium and sugar. Have raw vegetables with guacamole or hummus as snack; make a healthy trail mix with nuts, cereal, and dried fruit; or make homemade nutrition bars with almond butter.

Dr. Keith Kantor is a leading nutritionist and co-author of The Green Box League of Nutritious Justice (Effective Press), which provides exercises, tips, and recipes to help prevent childhood obesity. The book recently won a Mom’s Choice Award. For more facts about childhood obesity, visit www.cdc.gov/obesity/childhood/.

SK 10/14

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October 2014 I parentguide News I 11

Costume

CRAFT

Create a couple of easy but inspired Halloween outfits.

by Abby Larson

It’s easy enough to visit a pop-up Halloween store and let the kids pick outfits they’ll likely wear only once. But with a little planning and lots of creativity, you can create some truly memorable costumes.

If your family participates in making them, too, please note there should be adult supervision at all times. Below are two concepts that will help your imagination take flight.

Hot Air Balloon Costume Whimsical and adorable, the Hot Air Balloon costume is sure to garner compliments from your child’s peers, and your friends, too!

Supplies:

• 30-inch red latex balloon • Helium tank (party stores can likely blow up the balloon for you without having to rent a tank) • 36-inch balloon netting • Gold spray paint • 10-inch foam floral hoop • Red parachute cord • Red woven cotton straps • Red duct tape • Red felt • Brown lunch bags • Rubber bands (½ yard) • ½-inch foam sheet • Basket large enough to fit around your child • Utility knife • Scissors • Hot glue gun and glue sticks • Pilot’s cap • Pilot’s jacket

Instructions: 1) Use the utility knife to cut out the bottom of the basket. Line the inside edge

with duct tape so there are no sharp points.

2) Crumple a lunch bag into a ball, and stuff it inside another lunch bag; tie with a rubber band. Repeat to make three other “sandbags.”

3) Use the gold spray paint to coat the sandbags, floral hoop, and balloon netting.

Let the pieces dry for 30 minutes.

4) Cut the red felt into small triangles. Thread the red parachute cord through the spokes of the basket, leaving an arc on each side, and knot at the ends on the inside of the basket. Glue the triangles to the cord to make pennant flags.

5) Thread the red straps through both sides of the basket, as far apart as your child’s shoulders. Glue the ends to the straps on one side, then place the basket on your child to measure where to cut the ends on the other sides. Glue remaining ends in place.

6) Tie red parachute cord from the basket corners to the floral hoop. Hold the hoop level and at a height tall enough to leave room for your child. Tie the sandbags onto each corner of the basket with red parachute cord.

7) Cut the foam into 2-inch strips as long as the sides of the basket. Hot glue to the top of each basket side. Completely cover each piece of foam with red duct tape to form a cushioned rim to the basket.

8) Cut 4-inch strips of red felt, and glue them end-to-end to form a scarf. Cut the ends with scissors to form a fringe.

9) Inflate the red balloon, and place it in the gold netting. Have another person hold the balloon while you tie the netting to the floral hoop, keeping the length even on all sides.

10) Dress your little one in the hat, jacket, and scarf. Place the basket over his head, and help him pull his arms through the straps. Your child is now ready to fly!

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Bubble Bath Costume

Photo credit: Ruth Eileen Photography

Supplies:

• 9-inch clear latex balloons • 5-inch clear latex balloons • 5-inch pearl white latex balloons • White shirt and pants • White elastic • Hot glue gun and sticks • Rubber cement • Rubber ducks • Blowing bubbles • Safety pins • Wagon • White fabric (enough to cover the wagon) • Packing tape

Instructions: 1) Wrap the wagon in the white fabric, securing it to the

underside of the wagon with packing tape.

2) Blow up a whole bunch of each size of balloon (no helium needed). Blow each balloon to close to full size, then slowly leak out the air until it reaches its roundest shape.

Tie it off.

3) Use the rubber cement to attach balloons to the fabriccovered wagon and to each other. Start with a ring of the largest size balloon around the edge of the wagon. Build up the “bubbles,” varying size and color as you go. Leave a gap in the balloons on one side so a child can easily get in and out of the “bath.”

4) Cut a piece of white elastic slightly shorter than the circumference of your child’s head, and hot glue its ends to form a headband. Hot glue the tied ends of 3-4 balloons to the elastic loop to complete the bubble headband.

5) Glue or safety pin several clusters of balloons to your child’s shirt (have him put the shirt on first).

6) Use rubber cement to adhere rubber ducks to a few of the bubbles. You can also add bathtime props like scrubs, washcloths, and soap. Give your child blowing bubbles to add to the fun!

Abby Larson is editor and founder of the wildly popular wedding blog Style Me Pretty and its offshoot Style Me Pretty Living. Larson has devoted the past six years to Style Me Pretty, seeking out quality content, cultivating her editorial eye, building an expert team, and raising the wedding bar. SMP Living is home to party ideas, DIYs, recipes, travel tips, home tours, and resources for inspired living. Discover Larson’s dreamy, fabulous world at www.stylemepretty.com and in her book Style Me Pretty Weddings: Inspiration & Ideas for an Unforgettable Celebration (Potter Style). your needs, your neighborhood

October 2014 I parentguide News I 13

L

by Ellyn Levy

The

IEP Meeting Should you bring a lawyer?

W

hen I started the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process — necessary for public school students in special education and related services — for my daughter, I got the shock of a lifetime. I initially had no legal representation and was essentially told that I didn’t know what would be best for my daughter. I felt harassed, and even worse, I discovered that the school district could make decisions with which I might not agree. All of this could and would happen even though I had documentation from a neuropsychologist outlining exactly what educational accommodations my daughter needed to succeed in school. I thought it would have been fairly easy to get these accommodations in place. Well, it turned out I was very naïve. I learned quickly and painfully that I could trust no one within the school district to have the same level of dedication to supporting my daughter that I did as her parent.

I realized that I needed the support of an attorney versed in education law. I needed a strong, dynamic, no-nonsense attorney who could teach me how to listen, know what was possible and reasonable to expect, and calm me down when I could not get everything for my daughter that I had hoped to obtain. Having legal counsel gave me the chance to review all documents the school might provide before a meeting (although rarely was anything offered in advance). The attorney and I also reviewed what my daughter’s doctor recommended so I knew what we were requesting. The lawyer sat between my husband and me. She quite literally had to be there for me to lean on and to explain what the pupil personnel director was offering in the way of accommodations.

When you make the decision to bring counsel, you must inform the school district ahead of time because it will then supply legal counsel to rebut yours. In my experience, the atmosphere does seem a lot more caustic and frightening when there are attorneys in the room. But that does not mean you shouldn’t bring one. It’s no picnic without one, either! For me, there really was no question that I was going to live with the anxiety of an unpleasant experience for my daughter’s sake.

14 I parentguide News I October 2014

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egal representation: Just thinking about it seems so overwhelming and off-putting for many parents. How bad does it really have to be before you decide that you need the help of an attorney who can hold your hand (both literally and figuratively) through the IEP process? Well, I can tell you from experience that it has to be pretty awful to go to that extreme. I don’t think any parents really want to believe they can’t get what their child actually needs from the school district without legal representation, but it’s sometimes the case.

During an IEP meeting with legal representation, the attorneys joust legal points — your child is or is not entitled to certain educational accommodations. It’s not set in stone, there is no recipe, and the lawyers definitely battle. I found that the words they used were often jargon that my attorney needed to explain in terms I could understand. After many such meetings, I got used to the language and the tenor of the atmosphere in the room and learned to expect it. I watched the discomfort on the teachers faces as they watched this scene unfold.

I found the strongest reason to have legal representation was that I was able to get more IEP benefits than I would have if I went it alone. Education lawyers are experts on what your child is entitled to because it is their job to know and understand the law. As parents, we can (and should!) become highly informed advocates for our children, but we just cannot have the same level of expertise as education lawyers. I also found that I learned how to advocate for my daughter through my attorney. After a while, I was able to go to these meetings with only my daughter, and she and I could advocate quite well. If we were unsure about something, we

Resources

Additional copaa.org b.org/ parentcenterhu er find-your-cent

ncld.org

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didn’t sign any paperwork and scheduled a follow-up meeting. We were in control, mostly. We gained confidence and a better understanding of our rights. We had the strength and knowledge to walk out and consult our attorney by phone by the time my daughter was in 10th grade.

Of course, bringing legal counsel to an IEP meeting had some negative connotations, too. As I described previously, it made the meeting even more contentious than it already was. Having lawyers in the room escalated the meeting to a whole other level of importance, and the tension rose for everyone; it was truly palpable when you walked through the door.

Another major con to considering legal representation is the financial aspect of this process. It is expensive from the very beginning, when the attorney accepts your child’s case and you sign a retainer fee, to each time you speak on the phone and go to a meeting. There are education attorneys

who are willing to work on a pro-bono or sliding scale fee basis. Contact your local Parent Training Information Center, bar association, or the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates for more information.

If you have a school district with a proven track record that will listen to what you believe are your child’s needs, then I would go without an attorney. Remember, though, if the district does something with which you don’t agree, you always have the right to bring legal representation. The old adage “You get more with honey than you get with vinegar” may be true in this situation. Avoiding the contentious situation of using an attorney may allow you to have better overall relationships with administrators and teachers, and this can definitely benefit your child. I think my daughter would have likely felt more supported by the district if there had been less or no fighting for the accommodations she needed.

I believe each family must decide what is best for its child. There is no easy way to walk into an IEP meeting. Whether or not you bring representation, you must know your legal rights. If you feel having legal representation is necessary, don’t hesitate. It may be difficult, but it will help you get your child what she needs, and that’s what really matters.

Ellyn Levy is a speech-language pathologist who has worked with children and adults in private schools, universities, hospitals, and private practice for 35 years. She currently has a private practice in New York City and may be reached via ellynlevy1@gmail.com. This article has been reprinted with the permission of the National Center for Learning Disabilities.

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by Ellyn Levy

Honesty & LDs A Why it’s important to speak

openly about learning disabilities.

dvocating for your child around relatives and friends who don’t understand learning disabilities (LDs) and/or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a skill you can master. It takes some personal insight and the desire to be supportive of your most precious gift: your child.

I have a hard time understanding why adults hide certain personal information about themselves. I find that it leads to a loss of authenticity in relationships and lack of true connection. That could easily be due to limited self-confidence and perhaps poor self-esteem. After all, if you show your true colors, then someone might not like the “real” you. As human beings, we all want to be liked and have our families and friends support us. If we expose ourselves too much, it leaves us open to criticism and makes us vulnerable.

When we become parents, we are keenly aware of our children’s vulnerabilities and have a strong desire to protect them from anyone who might not understand them.

When our children are diagnosed with learning challenges of any sort, we want to protect them even more. The question is: How do we do that? The answer is straightforward and daunting to many parents and caregivers: We must teach children to be honest about their learning challenges and not shy away from using the correct terminology to describe their diagnoses. If we don’t, we’re teaching the child there’s something to be ashamed of.

Hiding implies there’s something wrong.

If you hide the fact that a child has a LD or ADHD, the child may think, I can’t be myself. Being forthcoming and advocating for your child can do just

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the opposite; it boosts a child’s self-confidence.

Speaking openly about your child’s challenges does a world of good for the entire family. It fosters honest communication about the specific learning disability. It enables you to provide information for those who may not know about the disability. And if you are faced with skepticism, you can address it head on.

One time, a close friend told me that my daughter had “an unfair advantage” because she could take a state exam with extended test time and in a separate location due to her dyslexia and ADHD. These accommodations were legitimate and mandated for my daughter, and I was mortified to hear such an opinion from a friend. I knew I had to educate this person and called her to tell her I was upset about her comment.

I felt she didn’t truly understand the nature of my daughter’s learning disability and how it academically impacted her. After I explained my feelings and enlightened my friend about the situation, she no longer harbored the ridiculous notion that somehow my daughter had an unfair advantage. It took patience on my part to advocate and openly communicate for my daughter. In the end, though, it was key to my friend’s understanding and maintaining our relationship.

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www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Ellyn Levy is a speech-language pathologist who has worked with children and adults in private schools, universities, hospitals, and private practice for 35 years. She currently has a private practice in New York City and may be reached via ellynlevy1@gmail. com. This article has been reprinted with the permission of the National Center for Learning Disabilities.

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Can PCOS cause infertility or difficulty conceiving?

P

olycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is PCOS is considered a leading cause of female infertility. It a condition that affects a woman’s reduces the ability of the ovaries to mature and release eggs into menstrual cycle, fertility, hormones, the uterus. Other reproductive symptoms of PCOS include the creation of polycystic ovaries, characterized by multiple cysts and insulin production, circulatory system, small follicles; chronic anovulation, or an inability to ovulate; and imbalance. and appearance. Women have both male hormonal Women with PCOS frequently suffer from chronic anovulation, a condition that can cause them to go through fewer than eight and female hormones, but women who menstrual cycles each year. Frequently, they skip their periods have PCOS have higher levels of male altogether. Furthermore, the hormonal imbalance associated with can result in symptoms ranging from an excess of estrogen hormones. They experience irregular or PCOS or androgen to decreased levels of progesterone (the hormone important to the menstrual cycle) and resistance to insulin. absent menstrual cycles and small cysts on their ovaries. It is estimated that 5-10 What happens with PCOS during pregnancy? percent of women who are of childbear- What are the dangers involved? ing age have PCOS. Women with PCOS may experience more health problems than 20 I parentguide News I October 2014

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the average pregnant person. Factors of which to be aware include: • High blood sugar levels, which can lead to diabetes • Pregnancy-induced high blood pressure • Premature delivery • Preeclampsia (high blood pressure, protein traces in the urine) • Macrosomia (a newborn with an excessive birth weight) These serious problems mean it’s extremely important to address PCOS and make the lifestyle changes necessary to reverse it, as well as the underlying cause of insulin resistance. This is vital to prevent the health issues that can compromise long-term wellness for both mother and child during and after pregnancy.

Insulin resistance reduces the insulin sensitivity of a person’s cell walls. Glucose has to pass through the cell walls to be converted to energy. Insulin assists this process. When the cell walls have become de-sensitized to insulin by insulin resistance, the process can break down. Glucose cannot get into the cell and remains in the bloodstream, causing elevated blood sugar levels. This process can lead to weight gain and obesity, key factors in creating PCOS.

What should PCOS patients do about the condition before, during, and after pregnancy?

Metformin (Glucophage) is a drug often prescribed for women with PCOS who are trying to get pregnant and in the early stages of pregnancy. Metformin improves the cell’s

response to insulin, and it helps to move glucose into the cell.

As a result, the body will not be required to make as much insulin, which helps to balance the hormones in PCOS. Weight loss through exercise and changes in diet can also be effective in treatment for PCOS during pregnancy. Women should seek out a specialist who can provide nutritional and fitness guidelines to enhance their weight loss success. This is critical for the health of mom and baby.

Infertility specialists typically treat hormonal symptoms, in particular the excessive level of androgen, by prescribing low-dose oral contraceptives. This approach should reduce acne and unwanted hair growth; however, the latter symptom may require electrolysis, waxing, or another removal method performed in conjunction with medical treatment.

Practicing in California since 1990, Dr. Jane Frederick is an internationally noted specialist in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. She is the medical director of HRC Fertility in Orange County, California, where she has a diverse practice in reproductive surgery, IVF, and the genetic screening of embryos. Dr. Frederick has received a variety of honors for her work with infertility, including being honored as one of the top 10 percent of specialist in her field by U.S. News and World Report. She provides state-of-the-art treatment with personal attention and has helped thousands of individuals achieve their dream of having children. Learn more at www. orangecountyfertilitydr.com.

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Special Needs Services Close to Home Special Needs

Behavior Analysis (ABA). Andrea Delmonico is an occupational therapist with a specialization in sensory integration, as well as neurological, cognitive, and orthopedic rehabilitation. She is a certified Sensory Integration and Praxis Test (SIPT) evaluator. She has received special training in “Handwriting Without Tears” and “Therapeutic Listening.”

Andrea is also a dance instructor and adapted dance specialist. She has developed adapted dance and yoga programs for children with special needs with a focus on socialization.

Abilities Therapy Network Speech/Language Pathologist - Terri Delmonico, MA, CCC-SLP Occupational Therapist - Andrea Delmonico, MS, OTR/L 700 Godwin Ave., Suite 120, Midland Park, NJ 07432 (201)447-0303 info@abilitiestherapynetwork.com www.abilitiestherapynetwork.com Abilities Therapy Network is a developmental, Speech/Language Berger Learning Group, LLC Therapy & Occupational Therapy Center, providing children and 31-11 Broadway, Fair lawn, NJ adults with the comprehensive and individualized tools necessary to (201)742-5298 www.bergerlearning.com reach their highest potential to become successful members of their info@bergerlearning.com family, classroom, and community. Services available include screenThe Berger Learning Group, LLC, is a private Applied Behavior ing, evaluation, individual and group treatment, and consultation.

Analysis (ABA) center in Northern New Jersey serving children, ages Specialty services: PROMPT, AAC, Feeding/Swallowing, Sensory In15 months to 16 years, with autism, developmental delays and behavtegration, SIPT, “Handwriting Without Tears,” “Astronaut Training,” ioral challenges. The group’s director, Diane Berger, MA, BCBA, is a “Therapeutic Listening,” Adapted Dance and Yoga. Occupational board-certified behavior analyst and certified special education teacher therapy services are delivered in a fully-equipped sensory gym. Terri in New Jersey and New York. Behavioral services offered at the BergDelmonico is a speech and language pathologist with 25 years of pracer Learning Group include supervision and coordination of home and tice in the Bergen County schools from PreK -12th grade. She has school programs, parent training, positive behavior intervention plans, experience in working with articulation and auditory processing diffunctional behavior assessments, as well as a reading comprehension ficulties, receptive/expressive language delays, stuttering, and apraxia.

419FeedPark Avenue South, New NYimagery 10016and • 212-213-8840 • Fax with 212-447-7734 program based on York, concept adjusted for children auShe has received special training in AAC, Oral/Motor Disorders, tism and other delays. Cognitive skills, language/communication, play ing/Swallowing Disorders, PROMPT Therapy, Floortime, and Applied skills and social skills are addressed and strengthened through one-toone ABA/VB instruction as well asFAx weekly tO: # group sessions. Self-help skills such as toileting, dressing and self-feeding along with manageHome of the Original Neuroscience ment of problem behaviors are also a major focus of the Group. Diane Inspired Adaptive Martial Arts Program FrOm: for iSSue DAte: and her team of highly-trained ABA instructors provide individualized Children with Autism, PDD, ADHD, Dyspraxia programming to meet each child’s specific needs as well as provide families with the training they require to support their child’s progress in generalizing Please call ornew faxskills. your comments and/or OK.

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(201)837-8371 / (201)837-1668 office@goodtalking.com www.goodtalkingpeople.com Good Talking People, LLC is a well-established private practice in Speech Language Pathology made up of licensed and certified clinicians with over 25 years of experience. They provide diagnostic and intervention services for toddlers, children, adolescents and adults

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Special needS DIRECTORY with speech language problems. Good Talking People, LLC has established a wonderful working relationship with many audiologists, dieticians, physicians, occupational and physical therapists, psychologists and various school professionals throughout Northern New Jersey, and the New York Metropolitan area. Their services include: Speech Language Evaluations, focusing on speech, language, voice, fluency, oral motor and social skills; Speech Language Therapy, offering individual sessions specifically designed to meet the needs of each client; Social Thinking and Communication Programs, running small group sessions designed to improve understanding of social situations; Preschool Screenings; Workshop and Training Services; School Social Skill Program; and a Parent Network & Referral program, designed to assist families facing new challenges by networking with others who have had experience in the area. Good Talking People, LLC is also an official certified provider of Fast ForWord, a computer training program

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Ilene Weiss Special Education Consultant, Advocate and Tutor (845)267-6720 prizeteacher@gmail.com www.prizeteacher.com At one time or another in all of our lives, consultants, tutors and advocates can be valuable assets to have. Parents may turn to consultants when they want to fight for their childs’ rights to a free and appropriate public education. As that consultant, Ilene will review the documentation relating to your child’s education and prepare you for meetings with the school district. As an advocate, Ilene will help break down barriers at the school district and safeguard the parent’s and child’s due process rights under the law and help ensure the child is provided a meaningful educational benefit from the 504 plan or IEP. As a tutor, Ilene works with children who are struggling and want to do better in school and will meet with the child once or twice per week for one-on-

one instruction. Ilene Weiss is a retired Yonkers special educator with over 30 years of experience. She has served as a Committee on Special Education (CSE) chairperson for the Yonkers Board of Education, has written numerous IEPs and participated in many CSE meetings. In addition, she is a certified NYS teacher and highly qualified to teach special education from grades pre-K through 12, as well as general education at the elementary level. Ilene’s experience includes teaching and advocating for children with a wide range of learning disabilities, ADHD, and psychiatric and language and communications disorders.

She is also qualified to tutor children who are struggling with various elementary school subjects. Please call or email to arrange a free ½hour consultation to discuss your child’s specialized needs.

Sensory TKD of Bergenfield 155 South Washington Ave., Bergenfield, NJ (201)384-2424 sensorytkd@verizon.net www.sensorytkd.com Sensory TKD of Bergenfield is the first neuroscience inspired martial arts program. They specialize in training children with Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Dyspraxia and PDD. Children undergo a complete health history, unique functional neurological exam, nutritional and behavioral assessment. This information contributes to the customized Taekwon-Do and exercise intervention that best addresses each child’s individual challenges. Their Taekwon-Do instructors have extensive training to integrate modifications to Taekwon-Do during the sessions. They are skilled at observing and detecting strengths and weakness so that the appropriate TaekwonDo intervention can be applied. This program began in 2006 when Chiropractor Dr. Kerry Escamilla who is also a student of functional neurology noticed improvements in his own difficulties with attention and impulsivity. Completing extensive courses in functional neurology, early child learning and behavioral disabilities, functional medicine

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Celebrating Over 45 Years of Award Winning Service

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October 2014 I parentguide News I 23

Special needs DIRECTORY and his own self study in sensory integration made the program what it is today. They pride themselves on providing a physically and psychologically safe environment. Many children who have not previously shown interest in physical activity are struck with new found enthusiasm for Sensory Taekwon-Do. Parents regularly witness transformations in coordination, strength, and self-esteem. For more information call (201)384-2424.

Speech and Hearing Associates Avenel (732)750-4660 Cliffside Park (201)313-5335 Denville (973)664-6990 Martinsville (908)575-0399 Park Ridge (201)775-5699 Roseland (973)763-2841 Secaucus (201)578-1999 Woodland Park (973)785-0696 Westfield (908)232-2900 General Information (800)742-7551 www.speechandhearingassoc.com Speech and Hearing Associates (SHA), an award-winning practice, is celebrating more than 45 years of excellence in providing Speech Therapy as well as Hearing and Auditory Processing Evaluations.

SHA’s experienced speech-language pathologists and audiologists provide evaluations and treatment to ensure that infants, children and adults reach their full potential to communicate and to hear all the sounds of life. SHA’s professional staff is NJ licensed and nationally certified, and participate in monthly continuing education programs.

SHA’s speech-language pathologists evaluate and treat voice, articulation, fluency, language, processing and swallowing disorders; and their audiologists conduct hearing and hearing aid evaluations for all ages and are experts in diagnosing and providing educational recom-

mendations for children with Central Auditory Processing Disorders.

Speech and Hearing Associates also offers PROMPT and social communication groups. SHA has speech-language pathologists who are bilingual (Arabic, French, Haitian Creole, Hebrew, Hindi, Korean, Polish, Russian, Spanish, and Urdu)! With offices in nine different locations, Speech and Hearing Associates is the largest private practice in New Jersey and offers the most comprehensive services for the evaluation and treatment of speech and hearing disorders affecting infants, children and adults. Speech and Hearing Associates receives referrals from and partners with physicians, hospitals, educators, schools, Head Start programs, early intervention programs and long-term care facilities. SHA consults with over 65 school districts in New Jersey, providing in-service training for educators, therapy and evaluations for students, as well as speech-language screenings, and Audiology/CAP consultations. Call Speech and Hearing Associates today to schedule an evaluation and/or treatment, or visit: www. speechandhearingassoc.com for more information.

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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 $100 worth of kitchenware from Casabella. Casabella wants to help you create your favorite autumn treats! Share it all with us at www.parentguidenews.com.

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Encourage friends and relatives to vote once a day, too.

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October 2014 I parentguide News I 25

BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY

Celebrating a birthday is one of the most exciting times in a child’s life. Since there is nothing more fun for a child than to spend an entire day and night with friends, a slumber party presents the perfect way to make the birthday girl or boy feel special.

However, the idea of hosting a slumber party may give you thoughts of children running amok at your home as food is strewn everywhere. Really, though, it doesn’t have to be that complicated!

The following tips instruct how to host a successful slumber party.

Invitations

party area. For dinner, allow the children to prepare their own meal to encourage interaction and creativity.

Tacos are kid friendly and simple to make. Place taco shells, meat or vegetarian bean fillings, tomatoes, cheese, lettuce, and spices in separate bowls on the kitchen table. Distribute paper plates, and have each child put together a taco. Just add drinks to complete the meal.

Dessert

To simplify the cake and ice cream presentation, prepare the Cake Cone recipe in the sidebar ahead of time. It only requires three ingredients: ice cream cones, cake mix, and ice cream.

Allow your child to create invitations. Purchase blank invitation cards, stickers, and colored pencils to enable creative designs.

Don’t forget to include party details, such as asking guests to bring a blanket and pillow. Try to invite an even number of children so that no one is left out when a game or activity calls for partners.

Decorations

Since a slumber party is an all-night event, hang balloons from the ceiling by crepe paper.

This decor will maintain the party atmosphere throughout the night, and your decorations will last longer being out of reach.

Games

Play a few simple games once all of the children have arrived to build cohesion and relationships. Some suggestions: The Paper Clip Game. Attach 10 paper clips together for each child. Have the children sit in a circle and detach each paper clip as fast as they can without changing the shape of the paperclips. The first person to complete the task wins a small prize. To enhance the excitement, play upbeat music during the game.

The Mummy. Partners are chosen by drawing names (so no one feels bad for being the last person picked). Then, one child from each pair uses an entire roll of toilet paper to wrap his partner like a mummy. The first pair to finish the roll wins a prize.

Food

Provide snacks like a bowls of chips, a healthy veggie tray, and fruit around the 26 I parentguide News I October 2014

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BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY

Activity

After the meal, everyone should be ready to wind down with a fun but low-key activity. Spread an old bed sheet or a drop cloth in the middle of the floor. In its center, place stickers, glue, foam shapes, markers, glitter, and similar items. Give each child a plain white T-shirt to decorate with these supplies. Once the shirts are complete, hang them up to dry. Return them to the children at the end of the party.

Bedtime

Cake Cone recipe Enjoy cake and ice cream in the convenience of a cone.

Ingredients

When it’s time for bed, allow the children to sleep in the TV room on the floor watching an age-appropriate and engaging movie they’ve chosen. Before long, they’ll likely relax and fall asleep.

• Ice cream cones (yellow wafers) • Ice cream • Cake mix made from the box • Food coloring (optional)

Morning after

Instructions

Once the party is over, provide tortillas, cooked eggs, and cheese on the breakfast table so guests can make breakfast burritos and heat them in the microwave. As they watch a little television and talk, their parents will soon arrive to pick them up. Your child and little guests will have memories that will last for a lifetime.

1 Fill each ice cream cone with 1 tablespoon of cake

mixture. Don’t use too much mixture because it will rise, and you don’t want it to overflow.

2 Place mixture-filled cones on a cookie sheet. Bake them for about 10 minutes.

Felicia Harris is an instructor of Chef’s Delights cooking class in Mesquite, Texas, where children ages 4 to 6 years prepare easy-to-make, healthy meals. She is the author of children’s cookbook Slumber Party Recipes (CreateSpace), which can be found at Amazon.com.

3 Remove the cones from the oven, and cool them for about 15 minutes. Put candles in each cake cone and sing “Happy Birthday.”

4 Remove the candles. Add a scoop of ice cream in the additional space left at the top of the cone and serve.

0 0 1 $ n i W

our Toward Y rty! a P y a d h t t Bir x e N s ’ d l i h C Calling All February Birthdays!

PARENTGUIDE News wants to help make your child’s next birthday the most memorable ever!

This month’s Birthday Blowout Contest highlights children’s birthdays that occur in February.

To enter, go to www.parentguidenews.com and click on the Birthday Blowout Contest box for details. The winner receives a $100 gift certificate to spend toward a chosen party place or entertainer for the ultimate birthday bash.

Save BIG at www.parentguidenews.com

Turn your child’s special day into something spectacular. your needs, your neighborhood

October 2014 I parentguide News I 27

BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY

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

At Your Place

ProoF

merous famous athletes and entertainers, including Whitney Houston & Bobby Brown’s daughter Bobbi Christina, rap mogul Russell Simmons’ daughter Ming, former NY Mets and Yankees pitcher Dwight The Art of Magic Gooden, and Donald Trump. From resorts in Atlantic City to children’s (973)736-2825 artietheartofmagic.com backyard parties, Artie magically entertains his way throughout the artofmagic@msn.com state of NJ. 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, Newparty York, for NY your 10016child • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 Throwing the perfect birthday can be a bit tricky, especially if you hire Magician Artie Miller. With more than 30 years Bobi’s Puppet Shows of magical experience, this charming, tuxedo-clad entertainer is sure (973)839-2953 to: FAx # Calling for plenty of to bring some great surprises to the celebration.

Bobi’s Puppets have been entertaining northern New Jersey and audience participation, his interactive performances keep children and Rockland county residents since the 1970s. A member of the Pupadults tuned in to 45-minutes of non-stop magic. Not only does he do peteers of America, Bobi learned the amazing art of puppetry during From: tricks, but he tells stories too! The engaging iSSue DAte: of storytellcombination the golden age of TV from all the great puppeteers. She has even pering and magic making leaves kids thoroughly amused and entertained. formed an “unexpected� children’s show while on an airplane with His creative stories revolve around popular things children can relate the incredibly wacky “muppeteers� of Sesame Street. Bobi has over to likePlease movies, birthday the circus and favorite holidays.oK. Evcall or parties, fax your comments and/or 20 different shows, offering 6 birthday shows for 3-5 year olds and ery show is as unique as the audience members attending. It’s never 3 shows for 6-7 year olds. Bobi’s delightful shows are a favorite for the same old thing and special surprises are guaranteed to delight evlibrary story hours or a reward for summer reading. Many preschools eryone.

Extra attention is always given to the birthday child and Artie SigNAture oF APProvAl: prefer a Bobi Puppet Show to going on a field trip. Bobi’s variety can also supply magic coloring books to all the party guests. Half seshow for outdoor parties or summer camp programs is for 3-5 year rious, half silly, 100 percent fun, his show features colorful scarves, olds. Bobi will arrive dressed like Mother Hubbard with puppets in flowers, magical wands and realistic animal puppets that kids go wild 419party Park Avenue 13thHand Floor,and Newfinger York, NY 10016 along • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 her South, baskets. puppets, with marionettes enover! His performances can be tailored to accommodate any size tertain the children with songs, dancing and stories. Bobi’s staged and all age groups. Having studied under the famous magician Slystories are performed in a professional theater with lights suitable for dini, Artie has performed for celebrity kids and the children of nuto: FAxare # completely original or dea home or auditorium. All her stories lightful adaptations of favorite children’s stories; making for funny, gentle shows where even the villains are amusing. Bobi makes sure DAte: that violence is strictly for the TV. iSSue For the perfect memory for chilWeFrom: rent dren of all ages, book a Bobi Puppet Show! incubators

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")+! . + !

Circus Fun featuring Please callProductions or fax your comments and/or oK. Peter T. Clown & Amusements Galore! !" # (201)791-2829 www.circusfun.net Hayrides "&

This company has got it all! From an exciting array of variety SigNAture oFWow! APProvAl: Weekdays for Groups performance artists including clowns, magicians, puppeteers, stiltStarting Oct. 3rd. Reservations Required.

+ !

walkers, characters, caricature artists, balloon sculptors, facepainters, Saturdays for Families & sell the fertile eggs for your project (we will take chicks back).

in your home or classroom. • 11am to

3:45pm •

Starting Sept. 27. No Reservations Required.

/

%"$. ) "+"'& 700 Lawlins Road Wyckoff, New Jersey 201-891-0278

( & $$ ) M–F 8–6 • Sat 8–5:30

--- % * )% '%

Just take a wagon ride (cost $5.00) out to the

, +"'& $ )% pumpkin patch, pick ',)* a pumpkin if you choose, and pay forfor theGrades pumpkin separately at the field available K-5

by Reservation

Hayride '&.

PumPkin Picking BirtHday " Parties! september 27 - October 28 ")+! . )+" * th

th

Parties Include: Cowboy hats, bandannas, food, paper products and two employees for 1 ½ hour party. Just come & enjoy the party and your guests...leave the rest to us! taking reservatiOns May 5th201-891-0278 – ext 4 ext

September 15th

Includes: Petting Zoo, cowboy hats, bandannas, food, paper products and two employees for a 1 1/2 hour party. Just come and enjoy the party and your guests‌leave the rest to us!

28 I parentguide News I October 2014

party hosts and characters to other circus fun such as amusements, fun foods, balloon decore, ponies and rides. A wide variety of games are also available, including virtual reality, surf action simulators, fooseball, pop-a-shot basketball and video arcades, just to name a few. Talk about exciting! The featured entertainer is, of course, Peter T Clown.

TheUltimate Beading Experience! • Birthday Bead Extravaganzas • On-site Bead Workshop • Original Bead Kits • Bead Classes

BEADS!!!

• Girl Scouts • Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Ladies Nights • Corporate Events • Open 7 Days!

PARTY!!!

216 E. Ridgewood Ave. • Ridgewood 201.444.5144 • www.bazaarstarbeadery.com parentguidenews.com

BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY Peter is a circus-quality multitalent who has been delighting children at birthdays and corporate events for over 17 years with his special brand of physical comedy, audience participation, and an array of amazing circus skills such as magic, balloon sculpting, platespinning, juggling, face-painting, puppet friends and much more. Want something visual?

Ask Peter T Clown about the “Giant Balloon Sculpting Act” he’s taken on 3 tours of Japan, as well as at the “`96 Meadowlands Fair” where he was the featured clown performer. Peter has even performed for the Clyde Beatty Circus and was selected to perform at the International Street Performers Competition in Shizouka, Japan. So whether you’re looking for entertainment on a grand or intimate setting...corporate carnival fun or something to make that birthday an extra special day, this company is the way to go. Just give a call and you’ll see what they mean! This company is truly Circus Fun! Dot Your Face (201)303-6227 www.dotyourface.com Turn your child’s next birthday into an event to remember by inviting Dot Your Face to the party! As a former Magical Moments teacher and mother with nearly 20 years of teaching and performing experience, Dot knows just what makes a child’s birthday fun and special.

Party guests will have fun dancing with props, playing musical parachute time, receiving balloon art and even be face or hand painted as an animal, Spiderman, princess or butterfly! A Dot Your Face show will liven your next party, grand opening, school assembly, fundraiser or other special occasion with developmentally appropriate activities such as face painting, parachute play, balloon art, art projects, educational programs, dancing with all types of props and more! Dot can also come dressed as a boy or girl character from your favorite movie, television show or storybook. Characters that Dot has played in the past range from a clown, a pirate and a train conductor to a race car driver, Mother Goose and all of the Disney movie princesses. Seasonal

your needs, your neighborhood

characters such as Mrs. Claus, witch and pumpkin lady are also available. And if there is a special character or costume that you have in mind, just ask and Dot will always do her best to accommodate. In addition to her fabulous birthday party appearances, Dot has performed on TV, worked for Johnson & Johnson, Nabisco, the New Jersey Nets and is currently the in-house face painter for the Newark Bears Baseball Team. She was even seen on the Dr. Oz Show and interviewed by Sesame Street Magazine’s parent magazine for their “Birthday Parties for Toddlers” issue. When Dot comes to your party, it’s always totally fun and memorable!

High Touch - High Tech Sizzlin Science Birthday Parties (201)847-0199 www.sciencemadefunnnj.net Make that ordinary birthday party something to remember this year by adding a high tech touch! High Touch - High Tech’s unique brand of totally hands-on sizzling science birthday parties offer partygoers ages 5 and up a fun, exciting and even a bit of an educational look at the world of science. Decked out in his trusty white lab coat, Mitch Cooperman will travel to your home, hall or party place to guide as many as 25 youngsters through an energetic 75 or 90 minute show of games and activities where the emphasis is on fun! At each of High Touch - High Tech’s exciting birthday celebrations there is always plenty to keep kids smiling, whether it’s making gummy drops, trying their hands at ice fishing, stretching the imagination with some silly putty or literally having a blast as they learn to create a real exploding volcano! Also on the list of great hands-on activities that kids will love is High Touch - High Tech’s gemstone party where kids can actually pan for riches and discover everything from sharks’ teeth to fools’ gold. In another fun and exciting party, dinosaur lovers can step back in time and become a paleontologist to create a replica of a T-Rex tooth! When the party winds to a close the fun doesn’t end, as everyone

October 2014 I parentguide News I 29

BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY receives a certificate for participating. So for the perfect day of fun and excitement with a touch of science, make High Touch - High Tech a part of your next party.

The Lizard Guys (908)722-1519 www.thelizardguys.com thelizardguys@aol.com Fully certified and insured by the state of New Jersey, The Lizard Guys will spice up your next birthday party or special event with an educational show and tell that is perfect for kids ages 5 and up! Your Lizard Guys party host will show up to your home or party place dressed in an authentic jungle outfit, from boots to hat. Each fun and informative show entertains partygoers with approximately one-hour of interaction with nearly 10 various animals and a brief history about your child’s new friends that covers everything from what they eat to how they protect themselves. The animals range from five different categories, including lizards, snakes, turtles, frogs, and bugs. To make the day even more memorable, The Lizard Guys always have a pocketful of plastic frogs and lizards to hand out as prizes and souvenirs. In addition to their birthday party programs, The Lizard Guys are available to appear at schools, grand openings, scout meetings, dinners, libraries, nature centers and all other occasions. Goodie bags are also available.

Visit them at www.thelizardguys.com.

since 1975. Mr. Giggles is home to an impressive line-up of entertainers and attractions that will satisfy even the pickiest party planner.

Parents are welcome to choose from a wide variety of talented live entertainers including magicians, comedians, clowns, costumed characters, puppeteers, Santas and more. If you’re looking to add a musical touch to your party, Mr. Giggles can provide an array of bands, DJs and musicians. Mr. Giggles can also help parents put together an assortment of fun and exciting theme parties from carnivals to a casino night! Don’t worry about waiting too long, because last minute calls are always welcome. Add some smiles, laughs and plenty of giggles to your next birthday party or special event by calling Mr. Giggles at (973)379-6622.

Rizzo’s Reptile Discovery (201)230-2415 / (973)586-0444 www.rizzosreptilediscovery.com Rizzo’s Reptile Discovery is fully insured and possesses all necessary state permits. Allow them to educate while they entertain you and your family at your next birthday party. The program can also be tailored to the child’s favorite reptiles. They also provide animal cards for all the children to remember the party. Rizzo’s Reptile Discovery will gladly be available for scout meetings, schools, nature centers, libraries and all occasions. Take this unique opportunity to touch live snakes, turtles, lizards, and frogs. Meet Butterscotch the 15-foot python, Tiny the Mr. Giggles turtle and Spike the Bearded Dragon or Junior the alligator! With their (973)379-6622 horizongiggles@aol.com energetic style and passion for reptiles, children and families can laugh www.horizongiggles.com and learn together. Rizzo’s Reptile Discovery uses humor to occupy Parents will find anything and everything they need to turn their little the children for a whole hour! A break for all you parents out there! boy or girl’s next birthday party into a huge success by inviting Mr. They bring nature to you and hope to inspire others to take an apGiggles to the party! The perfect place to call for birthdays, anniversapreciation for the environment and nature’s creatures. Rizzo’s Reptile 419 Park Avenue South,will 13thdonate Floor, New York, of NYthe 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax Spe212-447-7734 ries, bar/bat mitzvahs or any other special occasion, this fully licensed Discovery a portion profits to the Endangered and insured company has been your full entertainment & music source cies Program in NJ. For more information visit their website at www. rizzosreptilediscovery.com or call (201)230-2415.

ProoF

to:

FAx #

Wings of Magic Your First Stop for Laughter, Fun & Magic! iSSue DAte: (908)803-5179 www.wingsofmagic.com Wings of Magic is the creation of Magician and Variety Entertainer Mark A.S. Dolson, who has helped make events unforgettable for Six Please or fax your comments oK.of priFlags, Radiocall Disney, Caesar’s Resorts, IBM, Etc.and/or and hundreds vate events. Magic Shows are Mark’s specialty. All of Mark’s shows are full of laughter with lots of audience participation, along with your SigNAture oF APProvAl: choice of theme characters ranging from Traditional Magic, to Princes, to Pirates, to Clowns, to the popular Wizard, and many others. The guest of honor is always the star of the Grande Finale. In most shows Mark will levitate the child of honor! Wings of Magic offers shows of many sizes, from simple shows for smaller groups to larger shows, transforming a magic show into a more theatrical experience, with lighting, special effects, music, etc. Mark can provide you with both

From:

The coolest parTies s k at i n g a r e n a

BIRTHDAY PARTIES 2 hours of fun filled acTiviTies 1 hour skaTing - privaTe parTy room skaTe renTal - arcade Tokens 10 NEvINS RD, WAYNE, NJ 07470

973-628-1500 www.icevault.com

30 I parentguide News I October 2014

parentguidenews.com

BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY sit down and strolling entertainment. Every show is custom made to make your event truly special. Wings of Magic offers Magic Shows, Balloon Sculpture, Goodie Bags, Stilt Walking, Temporary Tattoos, Sand Art, Spin Art, Games & Prizes, Slime Lab, Face Painting and more. Check out www.wingsofmagic.com or call (908)803-5179 to make the magic happen!

At Their Place

Blue Moon Mexican Cafe Locations in Englewood, Jersey City, Woodcliff Lake, Wyckoff, NJ and Bronxville, NY (201)848-4088 www.bluemoonmexicancafe.com Looking to add a touch of spice to your child’s next birthday celebration without heading south of the border? Then take an unforgettable trip to the moon! The Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, that is. With four convenient locations throughout the Bergen County area and one in Westchester, the Blue Moon Mexican Cafe presents visitors of all ages with a bright, airy atmosphere that is brought to life by a unique lighting style and artistic decor. An outgoing, child-friendly staff is always waiting to greet your little ones. The Blue Moon is fully equipped to provide the party of a lifetime for as few as 10 to as many as 60 kids ages 4 and up. Your party guests will take part in a fun-filled celebration that includes a mouth-watering menu. Children will love Blue Moon’s delicious selection of Chips and Salsa; Burgers and Fries; Beef or Chicken Tacos; Grilled Cheese; Pasta and Hot Dogs. Families can choose from buffet style or table service. For your added convenience, Blue Moon can also provide a birthday cake and all of your paper goods. Families are always welcome to liven up the festivities by inviting their own entertainer to the party. Children’s birthday parties at the Blue Moon are available 7 days a week! In addition to their wonderful birthday party packages, the Blue Moon Mexican Cafe also offers take-out, private parties and catering for all occasions. Call their main office today at (201)848-4088 to find out more!

Abma’s Farm 700 Lawlins Road, Wyckoff, NJ 07481 (201)891-0278 www.healthbarnusa.com ABMA’S FARM is a three generation family-run farm. Their mission is to provide their customers with a UNIQUE shopping experience that the whole family can enjoy. While the parents are shopping in the farm store, the children can enjoy the opportunity to see and feed live farm animals such as bunnies, llama, pheasants, cows, ponies, goats, lambs and baby chicks. They offer the freshest produce, the best homemadefrom-scratch baked goods and homemade home cooked salads and prepared foods in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Abma’s has a birthday party package including petting zoo and pony rides from May through September, as well as a Hayride Pumpkin Picking Birthday Package from the end of September through the end of October. Incubators are available for rental to watch the egg hatching process at home. Buy the fertile eggs at the farm and they will take back the chicks! Come to the farm and enjoy the tastes and aroma of fresh food and give the children Chocolate Etc. an opportunity to see and enjoy real animals. Spring Farm tours are 382 Main St., Wyckoff, NJ 07481 available by reservation. Abma’s Farm is located at 700 Lawlins Road, (201)891-3711 www.chocolateetc.com Wyckoff, Open Sunday.

Call (201)891-0278 or 19 Park Avenue South,NJ. 13th Floor,every New day York,except NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 chocolateetc@verizon.net visit www.healthbarnusa.com for more information.

Come celebrate your child’s birthday with a creative party at Chocolate Etc! Recently doubled in size to accommodate more parties and a Bazaar Star Beadery : FAx # 216 East Ridgewood Ave., Ridgewood, NJ 07452 (201)444-5144 www.bazaarstarbeadery.com Looking for a place to create your very wearable art? Why not om: iSSueown DAte: take a trip to the Bazaar Star Beadery, the eccentric and whimsical store that offers you everything you need to bead the day away. Or planning a party? They can host your next Bar or Bat Mitzvah, Sweet 16, child’s Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. birthday party, ladies night, Girl Scout jewelry badge party or just about any bead event you can think of! There are a multitude of different projects to choose from which means you’ll never get tired of creating gNAture oF APProvAl: and finding new ideas for your next party. Great for all kinds of children and adults alike, bead parties are a great way to re-introduce people to creative expression. Walk-in’s are always welcome as you can pull up a chair and bead to your hearts content with on-site instruction, or join in on one of the classes offered Monday, Friday and Saturday each month.

They have many options for your child’s celebration, be it big or small, Bazaar Star Beadery can design a party that’s right for you. Give them a call and they’ll be happy to assist you.

Proof

ProoF

www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840

Celebrate a Creative Chocolate Making birthday Party at

Chocolate. etc.!

NeW Party Themes

chocolateetc com

We Welcome Children ages 5-14 Ages 8 and Up Scouts, Clubs Making Chocolate We can accommodate up to 23 children. and Other Pizzas or • Also Birthday & special occasion favors Organizations Decorating •Personalized candy wrappers!

Cupcakes • Gourmet chocolate gift baskets

• Many other services available

Turn your parTy inTo fiesTa aT your neighborhood blue moon

englewood, Jersey City, Woodcliff lake and Wyckoff for party info

201-848-4088

www.bluemoonmexicancafe.com

Come visit us

382 Main Street, Wyckoff NJ 07481

201-891-3711

your needs, your neighborhood

October 2014 I parentguide News I 31

BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY

larger showroom to their homemade chocolates, personalized favors, own office party attendant, delicious food, favors and candy, tokens candy bar wrappers and cake making supplies. Candy and chocolate to the Ice Vault’s arcade, and a free skating pass for future use! The sold by the pound sits side by side with the most delicious, ready to birthday child will receive a free Ice Vault T-shirt to make the celebraeat, mouth watering gift baskets! For those who want to try making tion even more memorable. And to make the festivities as enjoyable chocolate at home, Chocolate Etc. has an entire line of molds, melting for mom and dad as it is for the kids, Ice Vault lets you sit back and chocolates, lollipop sticks and toppings for the beginner as well as relax while they handle everything, from invitations to the personalthe most discerning chocolate maker. Chocolate Etc.’s birthday party ized ice cream cake! This breathtaking new facility directly serves the packages for ages 5 and up are held 7 days a week and can accommoNorthern and North Central New Jersey area but also offers programs date up to 23 children. Partygoers gather in the store’s private party such as Euro Hockey, customized clinics and tournaments to accomrooms for both a fun and creative experience where they will melt, modate all New Jersey residents. So find out more about some of the decorate their• very own chocolates that they each “coolest” programs and parties around by paying a visit to Ice Vault enue South,mold, 13th Floor, New and York,create NY 10016 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 419take Parkhome Avenue 13thbox, Floor,along New with York, aNYmold 10016 • Fax 212-447-7734 in South, their own and•a212-213-8840 diploma. Parties Skating Arena today! are also available in the early part of the day, which is perfect for Kindergarteners and children with Imagine That! Children’s Museum FAx #1/2 day schedules. The party rooms do parties 4 Vreeland Road, Florham Park, NJ 07932 to: sell out so you are encouraged to book your FAx # well in advance.

For more details call Chocolate Etc. at (201)891-3711.

(973)966-8000 www.imaginethatmuseum.com iSSue DAte: From: iSSue DAte: Ice Vault Skating Arena A children’s museum located five minutes off Rt.10 and Livingston 10 Nevins Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470 Mall, Imagine That! offers over 50 hands-on exhibits including an authentic fire truck, real plane, dance area, science room, Dr./Dentist Please (973)628-1500 call or fax your comments and/or oK. www.icevault.com Please call or fax your comments and/or oK. and multicultural area. With more than 16,000 square feet, the muIce Vault Skating Arena is the tri-state area’s newest multi-rink faseum lets children take a voyage on the high seas on the deck of the cility! Featuring two impressive NHL-sized ice rinks this 76,000pirate ship or visit a two-story playscape. All exhibits stress learning oF APProvAl: square-foot, state-of-the-art family recreational facility is home to Ice using children’s imagination and hands-on participation. Touching is SigNAture oF APProvAl: Rentals, Recreation Leagues, Public Skating, Figure Skating, Open encouraged at Imagine That! Visitors will also enjoy the new impresHockey, Youth and Adult Leagues, a fully stocked Pro Shop, Skating sive train layout. They offer pirate, fire fighter, princess, dance and Camps and an abundance of programs to keep you or your family ocother themed birthday parties. Imagine That! specializes in private cupied for year round ice fun! And if you are looking to provide your parties too! The appeal to children is obvious. Imagine That! provides Parkcelebration Avenue South, New birthday, York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 Fax 212-447-7734 child with a419 “cool” on 13th his orFloor, her next then Trustchildren• with a myriad of activities in a wonderful setting. Imagine company Bank Ice Vault is the place to be! Their fun-filled, two-hour That!! is proud to say they have been orchestrating children’s birthParkparties AvenueforSouth, Floor, Customizing New York, NY parties 10016 •is212-213-8840 • Fax 212-44 party packages provide your young guests with an hour of skating 419day over13th 24 years. “matter of fact.” fun, time in their#very From Kosher to Indian cuisine to anything in between, it’s all posTO:the decorated private party room, skate rentals, FAX sible. They provide a birthday experience that will never be forgotTO: ten and your children will feel the same way.FAX # in and party with Drop uth, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 FROM: ISSUE DATE: Imagine That!

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FAx #

The Lizard Guys Live AnimAL Presentations

FROM: The Little Gym

PROOF

ISSUE DATE:

Caldwell, (973)228-1787 Please call or fax foryour comments and/or OK.NJ All Ages!

Englewood South, NJ (201)567-8880 SnakeS • LizardS Hasbrouck Heights, iSSue DAte: Please callNJor(201)288-5556 fax your comments and/or OK. • FrogS • Montclair, NJ (973)744-1002 SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL: BugS • TurTLeS Waldwick, NJ (201)445-4444 Birthday Parties,Schools, meetings, SIGNATURE Wayne,OF NJAPPROVAL: (973)305-0600 or fax your comments and/or oK. Libraries,Scout Grand Openings, www.thelittlegym.com Special events Fitness is fun! As a complete kids’ fitness center, The Little Gym ofWe bring LIFE to fers loads of fantastic physical activities for infants to 12-year-olds. your party!

Call Artie: Birthday parties are guaranteed to be a high-impact celebration. Chil908-722-1519 dren of all ages and abilities enjoy participating in a variety of fitness (973) 736-2825 www.thelizardguys.com fun and games. There’s even an obstacle course! The Little Gym artietheartofmagic.com

HAVE A SssuPER

Mark A.S. Dolson's

PARTY WITH...

RIZZO’S ’S RIZZO’S ’S RIZZO ’S RIZZO RIZZO’S RIZZO RIZZO’S ’S RIZZO ’S RIZZO’S REPTILE REPTILE REPTILE REPTILE REPTILE DISCOVERY DISCOVER Y DISCOVERY Y Y DISCOVER DISCOVER DISCOVERY Y DISCOVER DISCOVERY Y DISCOVERY “We Bring Nature to You”

Educational Animal Presentations

Butterscotch THE 9 FOOT Party with: Samantha Tiny THE TURTLE

&

the 12 ft Python CONSTRICTOR BOA

Spike THE

BEARDED DRAGON

201-230-2415

973-586-0444 www.rizzosreptilediscovery.com

Magician, Puppet, Pirate, Safari, Wizard, Balloons, Animals & More For Parties, Libraries, Schools, Camps, Etc.

32 I parentguide News I October 2014

Turn Your Child’s Party Into A Carnival Of Fun WE FEATURE THE FINEST

clowns • magicians • jugglers balloons sculptures • stilt walkers face painters & more

Peter T. Clown’s CIRCUS FUN PRODUCTION

Providing Quality Party Entertainment Since 1987

www.circusfun.net • 201-791-2829 parentguidenews.com

BIRTHDAY DIRECTORY

offers Gymnastics, Karate, General Fitness and Sports Development is just off Rt. 10 in E. Hanover. With Hollywood theme decor, PowParties where children learn, practice and play a favorite sport. Baserhouse Studios makes an ideal location for Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Sweet ketball, football, baseball or soccer—little athletes take their pick. All 16s, family & corporate parties. Call for more info. All shows are by activities are non-competitive and foster self-esteem and confidence. reservation only.

Everyone is a winner! As an added attraction, children hang on for the time of their lives on a cable ride that takes them flying from one Screamin’ Parties end of the gym to the other. All activities are closely supervised by 651 Route 17 South, Paramus trained instructors who put safety first. The hour and a half parties (877)96-PARTY or (201)444-8883 include an hour of activity followed by a half hour of celebrating in www.screaminpartiesparamus.com a decorated party room. There is only one party held at a time so the The mission statement of Screamin’ Parties says it all: “To give your birthday child always feels special. The Little Gym does everything child the best birthday party he or she has ever experienced!” Introfrom sending out invitations and supplying paper goods & balloons ducing The Screamin’ Party Machine!

The Screamin’ Party Machine 419 Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 to adding snacks, pizza, juice and dessert to 419 the festivities! new13th Floor, is their new roller coaster simulator, and it’s exclusive to Park AvenueThe South, Newincredible York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 modern facility is air-conditioned, fully carpeted and ready to hold Screamin’ Parties! With four seats and each ride lasting approximateyour child’s next birthday party! ly 1 minute, to:your child and guests can ride this exciting simulator FAx # over and over again and FAx not see to: # the same ride twice! The Screamin’ Party Medieval Times Machine is truly a one-of-a-kind attraction, and it’s included with evThe Meadowlands Castle ery party.From: Adults are also welcome to ride and enjoy with theiSSue little guys DAte: 149 Polito Ave., Lyndhurst, NJ 07071-0327From: and gals. Each andiSSue everyDAte: party at Screamin’ Parties is important to (888)935-6878 them. They take fun seriously, and make sure that each and every parwww.medievaltimes.com ty is filled with exciting memories that will last a lifetime! Screamin’ Please callguests or oK. fax your In the mood for some old-fashioned fun? Medieval Times Please invites you Parties pride in offering unique and comments exciting state- and/or call or faxtakes yourgreat comments and/or to come celebrate more than 20 years of feasting, fighting of-the-art If your child likes unique inflatable 419and Parkfun!

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York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 A popular dinner attraction for all ages, Medieval Times Castles feaslides, bounce houses, obstacle courses, Roller Coaster Simulators, SigNAture oF APProvAl: tures a two-hour dinner and live show basedSigNAture upon authentic medieval video game floors, ball shooters, digital graffiti walls and a whole lot oF APProvAl: history. Guests enjoy a four-course medieval banquet while more, Screamin’ Parties shouldFAx be your to: witness# choice for your child’s next ing brave knights compete on horseback in games of skill, jousting celebration. Want a tour of one of the facilities? Call (877)96-PARTY matches and swordfights. Admission includes a four-course dinner, (967-2789) today. Screamin’ Parties of Nanuet will also be the home iSSuevenue, DAte:L.E.D. (Lights. Entertainbeverages and a live show. Parking is free. In addition toFrom: their regular of the area’s premier entertainment daily schedules, Medieval Times is the perfect place to cel­ebrate the ment. Dance.) which will be open in the same facility to host Sweet next birthday of the young Lord or Lady of your own castle! Their Sixteens, Mitzvah’s, Quinceanera’s, or any celebration complete with special action-packed birthday party packages in­clude preferred seat- Please state-of-the-art lightsyour and lasers!

Call (845)267-2022 for details. call or fax comments and/or oK. ing, an individual photo with the King or Queen, a cheering419 banner, Park Avenue South, 13th Floor, New York, NY 10016 • 212-213-8840 • Fax 212-447-7734 birthday cake, and an announcement in hon­or of the birthday child 30 25 Years Years as during the perfor­mance! Medieval Times is located west of GiantsoF APProvAl: SigNAture seen in North Jersey - Rockland County's Stadium and just minutes from mid-town Manhattan. Otherto: locations Sesame St. FAx # Magazine include Hanover, MD; Lawrenceville, GA; Kissim­mee, FL; Schaum™ burg, IL; Myrtle Beach, SC; Dallas, TX; Buena Park, CA; and To­ • Parachute Time • 1,000 Characters From: iSSue DAte: ronto, Ontario. Call the number above for reservations and further • Themed Parties information.

• Balloon Art

ProoF

ProoF

ProoF

ProoF

P

ProoF

• Face Painting • Singing & Dancing

with Props Delightful Original Stories Powerhouse Studios Please call or fax • Picnicsyour comments and/or oK. performed with hand puppets • Schools Wild’N Wacky Challenge Game Show • Camps in a professional theatre!

7 Littell Road, East Hanover, NJ 07936 • Grand Openings (973)560-9560 SigNAture oF APProvAl: Birthday Parties a Specialty Dorothy D. Perretti 49 East Midland Ave., Paramus, NJ 07652 Day care/Preschool/Library (201)265-9060 Cell: 201•303•6227 Recreational Programs/Scouts Recreational Programs/Cub Scouts dperretti2@verizon.net www.powerhousestudios.tv www.dotyourface.com Experience all the excitement of a live TV style program at your 973-839-2953 child’s next celebration. Powerhouse Studios of Paramus & East Hanover, NJ offer 6 unique parties; 1) The famous Wild’N Wacky Challenge where audience members participate in a series of zany games Make Volcanoes, Silly Putty, Gummy Bears and Much More! and crazy challenges for a chance to win prizes. Watch out! You might hightouch hightech end up underneath the giant Booger Blaster, inside the Phoam Booth Science Made FUN! or get pied in the face! This action-packed show is great for kids 6 & The only 100% totally hands-on party up. 2) Playtime Forest with Milo &Friends is a fanciful trip through a For a totally awesome, age appropriate, birthday party make believe land for children 3-6. Milo the baby dragon helps chilwww.ScienceMadeFunNNJ.net (201) 847-0199 dren sing songs, play games and gives the best hugs! 3) Club Powerhouse Dance Party features all the latest dance moves taught by one of our top Dancer-Emcees. Surrounded by a state-of-the-art nightclub setting our DJ spins everyone’s favorites. Shows 4, 5 & 6) are fun interactive shows for the 4-6 year old set. The Super Hero Adventure, Wild West Adventure and Swashbucklers on the High Seas Pirate Adventure are sure to please the young ones. Powerhouse Studios-Paramus is located on Midland Avenue just a few hundred feet south of Paramus Park Shopping Center. Powerhouse Studios - East Hanover

Sizzlin Science Birthday Parties

your needs, your neighborhood

October 2014 I parentguide News I 33

HEALTH

by Samantha Chan

4 2

1 Pack a truly complete lunch for your little ones with the brand-new Omiebox.The BPA- and phthalate-free plastic lunchbox features an insulated bowl to pack hot and cold items together. www.omielife.com/omiebox 2 Up the cleaning game in your home with the Soniclean VT Plus S-200 vacuum, which has a fragrance-dispensing system that freshens your home as you clean. www.mysoniclean.com 3 The Custom Care Modular Bathing Solution features three easy-to-change positions to promote proper support for your baby. www.toysrus.com

1

4 Babyganics Diaper Rash Cream boasts vitamins A, D, and E, as well as plant-based ingredients. www.babyganics.com

3

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

5 Whether you’re looking for a flashy accessory or a safety product, turn to 4id Fit Glow, which offers everything from headphones to shoelaces and armbands. www.4id.com

IR_Oct

34 I parentguide News I October 2014

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ws

HEALTH 6 Get your fill of essential oils and nutrients from Carrington Farms Flax Paks, convenient snacks for on-the-go families. www.carringtonfarms.com 7 Natursutten offers your family an ecologically sustainable and natural rubber pacifier that’s softer than silicone and easy to clean. www.amazon.com

6

8 Pack your child’s lunch with a healthy alternative to cookies and candy with Lance Whole Grain Crackers, available in Cheddar Cheese, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, and Peanut Butter flavors. www.lance.com

7

9 Ditch traditional sweets this Halloween and pick up Surf Sweets, a non-GMO candy collection free of corn syrup, artificial food dyes, nuts, gluten, soy, and dairy. www.surfsweets.com 10 Tame the Flame from Healthy Mama Brand is a mint-flavored, calcium-rich antacid that relieves heartburn while being gentle on the body. www.healthymamabrand.com

8 Samantha Chan is the associate editor.

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your needs, your neighborhood

October 2014 I parentguide News I 35

TRAVEL

by Donald McDermott

The LullabyÂŽ Baby 3-Stage Portable Playard offers all the baby-care essentials to create a cozy environment for baby and a practical carestation for mom and dad. www.chiccousa.com

Whether visiting family and friends or heading out to eat, parents and babies are sure to love Cozy Cover’s portable easy seat. www.cozy-cover.com

Proof

Simple, portable and convenient, the LullaGo™ bassinet is the ideal place for your newborn to sleep at home, on vacation, or anywhere else. www.chiccousa.com

The coolest, comfiest, and www.parentguidenews.com • 212-213-8840 most stylish accessory for safe travels, the BubbleBum inflatable booster seat is a great alternative to standard plastic boosters. www.bubblebum.us

Parents who are always on the move will love the new On The Go Changing Pad from Cozy Cover. The colorful pad is easy to store and comes with a Velcro handle. www.cozy-cover.com

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

Donald McDermott is the managing editor.

SK-10/14

& $ "$ $ ) !%" % ) & ' (# ) !"

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36 I parentguide News I October 2014

parentguidenews.com

Passaic UnionCalendarof Events Suffolk Bergen

October 2014

field trips and hands-on activities in a variety of art media. Presented again on October 11, 18, 25, and November 1.

October 5: Mother-Daughter Yoga Class, The Sukha Arts Center, 76 Schraalenburgh Road, Harrington Park, (201)857-2455, www.sukhaarts. com. Discover a great way for mom to slow down and spend time with her little one in a relaxing mother-daughter yoga class. No previous yoga experience is necessary. 4pm.

Hudson

Nassau

Rockland

Manhattan

Morris

Queens

Sussex

Westchester

October 1 - 18

October 1: Pottery Classes and Workshops, Wortendyke Pottery Studio, 211 Greenwood Ave., Midland Park, (201)652-5882, www.wortendykestudio.com. Children, teens and adults are invited to get creative this spring in hands-on classes. Sessions run through December 13.

October 5: Saddle Brook Street Fair, 215 Market St., Saddle Brook, www.jcpromotions.info. The street will be transformed into a giant town block party for an all day event featuring craft vendors, kiddie rides, pony rides, clowns, great food, local merchants and civic groups, music, and more. 10am-5pm.

October 3: Mommy & Me Class, World of Wings, 1775 Windsor Road, Teaneck, (201)833-4650, www.wowbutterfly.com. Moms are invited to step inside World of Wings and spend some quality time with their little ones in a delightful morning program. Presented again on October 10, 17, 24, and 31. 11am-noon.

October 11: Seasonal Scavenger Hunt, The Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, (201)568-6093, www.tenaflynaturecenter. org. Get into the spirit of the season by joining the Nature Center staff for a fun outdoor event.

October 4: Arts & Crafts Programs for Kids, Art for Learning, Englewood, (201)503-9796, www.artforlearning.com. Discover fabulous summer programs for children in grades 1-10. Participants will enjoy

October 12: Flea Market - Big Swap Bonanza, 1050 Wall St., Lyndhurst, www.jcpromotions,info. The huge garage and tag sale event offers a wide variety of merchandise such as handbags, sports collectibles, clothing, perfumes and much more. Delicious food will be sold by the

Middlesex Monmouth Somerset

your needs, your neighborhood

October 2014 I parentguide News I 37

Reach Thousands of Your Best Prospects for About $2 Per Day Now, www.parentguidenews.com makes it easy and affordable to place ADVERTISING DIRECTLY ONLINE. Just click on the “advertising information” link at the top of the www.parentguidenews.com home page and follow the simple steps to take your business to a totally new place.

Please note that you can always receive personal assistance by calling the Advertising Direct Helpline at (212) 213-8840, ext. 224 or e-mailing us at advertisingdirect@parentguidenews.com.

Calendarof Events Whiskey Cafe. Proceeds will be used to benefit the Lyndhurst NJ High School Band. 9am-5pm.

October 18: Haunted Forest, The Tenafly Nature Center, 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly, (201)568-6093, www.tenaflynaturecenter.org. Halloween is right around the corner and the TNC invites families to come out for a few thrills and chills.

All Month Long October 1-November 1: Family Performance Series, The Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 North Van Brunt St., Englewood, (201)227-

October 4 Hayride Pumpkin Picking Parties, Abma’s Farm Market & Nursery, 700 Lawlins Road, Wyckoff, (201)891-0278, ext.

4, www.abmasfarm.com. The perfect way to celebrate your child’s special day, these fun-filled celebrations include cowboy hats, bandannas, food, paper products, two private party employees, pumpkin picking, and an unforgettable old-fashioned hayride. Reservations are required. Available Saturdays through October 25.

1030, www.bergenpac.org. The Bergen PAC is the place to be this fall for amazing live performances for audiences of all ages.

October 12 for Families, The Tenafly Nature Center, 313 October 1-31: Programs Hudson Ave., (201)568-6093, www.tenaflynaturecenter.org. Start off The 32nd Annual your brand new year byOctoberfest taking part in a variety of great special events.

Upcoming events for the month Craft Show, Demarest Duckof October include: Full Moon Hike, Seasonal ScavengerRoad Hunt,and Haunted Forest, Little Naturalists, and Pond, Piermont Creatures of the Night.

Hardenburgh Ave., Demarest,

(201)403-3183, www.demarOngoing throughout the Fall: Soccer for Kids, Kiddie Soccer, variestnaturecenter.org.

This Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Pasous locations in Bergen, Essex, saic and Somerset Counties, (973)543-1197, www.kiddiesoccer.com. popular fundraising event features 75 quality crafters from The toptri-state of the line sports program that preschoolers areofsure to get a the area, as well as a fantastic selection German “kick” outand of gets underway for games, another exciting season! music food, inflatable canoe rides, and more.

For more exciting, family-friendly events in the tri-state area, visit

www.parentguidenews .com October 18 38 I parentguide News I October 2014

Saturday Happenings, The Slocum/Skewes School, Ridgefield, (201)943-4299, ext. 338. The Slocum/Skewes School is proud to present the return of weekly

parentguidenews.com

Bergen

through October 25.

Nassau

Hudson

October 12 The 32nd Annual Octoberfest Craft Show, Demarest Duck Pond, Piermont Road and Hardenburgh Ave., Demarest, (201)403-3183, www.demarestnaturecenter.org. This popular fundraising event features 75 quality crafters from the tri-state area, as well as a fantastic selection of German music and food, inflatable games, canoe rides, and more.

Rockland

Manhattan

Morris

Queens

Sussex

Westchester

October 2 - 26

October 2: Uptown Storytime, The Hoboken Historical Museum, 1301 Hudson St., Hoboken, (201)656-2240, www.hobokenmuseum. org. Children ages 2 - 5 and an adult companion are invited to come in from the cold to enjoy a few cool stories led by librarian Penny Metsch, Presented again on October 16.

October 3: Creative Grove Artist Market, Grove Street and Christopher Columbus Drive, Jersey City, www.creativegrove.org. Discover a destination and place to relax, play and express yourself, Presented again on October 10, 17, 24, and 31. 3-9pm.

Space, 54 Coles St., Jersey City, www.grassrootscommunityspace. com. Develop proper posture, followed by instruction in technique, muscular control, movement combinations, and musical interpretation.

Presented again on October 12, 19, and 26. 8pm.

October 4: Bierfest Saturdays, Zeppelin Hall Restaurant & Biergarten 88 Liberty View Drive, Jersey City, (201)721-8888, www.zeppelinhall. com. Come out and taste some of the best food Jersey City has to offer in a relaxed atmosphere. Presented again on October 11, 18, and 25.

October 5: Story Time, The Liberty Science Center, Liberty State Saturday Happenings, The SloPark, 222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City, (201)200-1000, www. cum/Skewes Ridgefield, lsc.org.

Children School, are invited to enjoy classic stories with a high-tech (201)943-4299, ext.

The12, 19, and 26. twist.

Presented again on338.

October

October 4: Jersey City Slam, Grassroots Community Space, 54 Coles St., Jersey City, www.jcslam.tumblr.com. This weekly gathering gives people a chance to get on stage and showcase their original poetry.

Presented again on October 11, 18, and 25. 9-11pm.

October 7: The Downtown to present theHoboken return of weekly Farmer’s Market, Washington St., Hoboken, www.hobokenfarmersmarket.com. A weekly market one-hour enrichment classes in that includes an array of fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade treats, reading, math, science, karate, and more.

Advance and more. Ongoing Tuesdaysart, through November.

3-7:30pm.

October 5: Egyptian Dance for Beginners, Grassroots Community

October 7: Wood 1, Shop for Kids, Grassroots Community Space, 54 25, November 15, and 22. 9am-noon.

Middlesex Monmouth

October 18

Slocum/Skewes School is proud

registration is required. Presented again on October

Your child’s enrolled in school...

October 18

! n r u T r u o Y s ’ t Somerset Now I ad the urge to

If you’ve ever h

get

ImagIne...

Clifton Downtown Street Fair, 1119 Main St., Clifton, cing your family, sacrifi www.jcpromotions.info. were afraid of t u b , rk o w to back The Clifton Downtown R YOU! THIS JOB’S FOEconomic Development Group proudly presents this semi-annual street fair, featurAre your friends astounded by your knowledge of the children’s market ing an array of vendors, crafters, kiddie rides, great food, – the best schools, afterschool programs and birthday places around? pony rides, music, and more. 10am-5pm.

• working four hours a day or more, from home, while your child’s in school.

• having a job that revolves around parenting.

• working with wonderful people.

• having so much fun that you won’t even know you’re working.

If you enthusiastically answered yes to the above question, we might have the perfect career opportunity for you.

PARENTGUIDE is expanding in your area.

We’re looking for advertising sales/account executives to help make PARENTGUIDE the most powerful resource for families in the area.

Candidates must have excellent communication and creative skills, and be highly organized and entrepreneurial in nature.

Our flexible schedule lets you take care of business, while being there for your family.

There’s excellent earning potential for the right person.

Please e-mail your resume to nj@parentguidenews.com your needs, your neighborhood

October 2014 I parentguide News I 39

Calendarof Events

October 18

Coles St., Jersey City, www.grassrootscommunityspace.com. Children ages 2-7 are invited to design and build their own wood projects.

Presented on Wednesday and Thursday through October 30.

October 12: The Heirloom Garlic Tasting Festival, The Hoboken Historical Museum, 1301 Hudson St., Hoboken, (201)656-2240, www. hobokenmuseum.org.

Essex

October 26: Hoboken House Tour, The Hoboken Historical Museum, 1301 Hudson St., Hoboken, (201)656-2240, www.hobokenmuseum. org. Lace up your most comfortable walking shoes and embark on a walking tour that is both fun and fascinating.

Saturday Happenings, The Slocum/Skewes School, Ridgefield, (201)943-4299, ext. 338. The Slocum/Skewes School is proud to present the return of weekly one-hour enrichment classes in reading, math, science, art, karate, and more. Advance registration is required. Presented again on October 25, November 1, 15, and 22. 9am-noon.

10 Nevins Drive, Wayne, (973)628-1500, www.icevault.com. Young hockey lovers are invited to study their favorite pastime in a nurturing atmosphere under the instruction of trained, patient teachers. Ongoing throughout the fall season.

October 18 October The Main Memorial Clifton4:Downtown Street Park Flea Market & Collictible Show, 1400 Main Ave., Clifton, www.jcpromotions.info. This indoor and Fair, 1119 Main St., Clifton, outdoor flea market offers a wide variety of jewelry, clothing, handwww.jcpromotions.info. bags, perfumes, vintage collectibles, garage/tag sale items and so much ThePresented Clifton Downtown more! again on November 1.

Passaic

Economic Development

All Month Long

Union

October 1: Hockey Instruction for Kids, The Ice Vault Skating Arena,

October Hawthorne Farmer’s Market, Grandstreet Ave.,fair, Hawthorne, Group 6: proudly presents this semi-annual featur(973)204-5088. Drop by this weekly program featuring a variety of ing an array of vendors, crafters, kiddie rides, great food, fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, honey, and home made baked ponyOngoing rides, music, more. goods. throughand October 27.10am-5pm.

9am-2pm.

Suffolk s e z i r P g n i Bergen m Upco & Giveaways You, Too, Can WIN! Nassau Congratulations Hudson Enter at www.parentguidenews.com

Angelcare® AC 605 Movement & Sound Monitor

Rockland

Evenflo® Advanced Double Electric Breast Pump

Winners

Manhattan

Kaylie-Jade P., winner of the Summer Fun Photo Contest, won an Eddie Bauer Endurance Jogging Stroller!

Queens

Leigh Anne B. won Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus Sharon S. won a Legends of Oz China Princess Doll Deana S. won a Legends of Oz Dorothy Doll Katie B. won Belli Bye Bye Blemishes Duo Andrea V. won a Wine Traveler Cup

Morris Sussex

to Recent

Cozy Cover Portable Easy Seat

Westchester

Scan here with your smartphone to sign up for our monthly Contests & Giveaways newsletter.

To enter any or all of our fabulous Facebook giveaways, become our fan at facebook.com/parentguidenews. Our Facebook fans receive tons of chances to win exclusive prizes, as well as access to contests that run in print, article highlights, and news regarding all things parenting.

Middlesex

40 I parentguide News I October 2014

parentguidenews.com

Craft Show, Demarest Duck Pond, Piermont Road and Hardenburgh Ave., Demarest, (201)403-3183, October 19: Frankwww.demarVincent Marina Street Fair & Collectible Show, estnaturecenter.org.

205 Passaic Ave., Kearny,This www.jcpromotions.info. This special fundOctober 4 the Kearny raiser to benefit Lions includes merchandise, collectpopular fundraising event features 75new quality crafters from ibles, garage/tag sale items, antiques. areas for kids, and much more! the tri-state area, as well as a fantastic selection of German Hayride Pumpkin Presented again onPicking October 19. 9am-5pm. music and food, Parties, Abma’s Farminflatable Market games, canoe rides, and more.

Tuesdays700 in October: Zumba Fitness Classes, Fred Astaire Dance & Nursery, Lawlins Road, Studio, 604 Valley Road, Clifton, New Jersey, (973)783-8999, www.

Wyckoff, (201)891-0278, ext. danceastaire.com. Ditch the same old workout and join the Zumba party 4, as www.abmasfarm.com.

The certified instructor Jennifer Donayre-Manderichio leads a fast-paced perfect way to celebrate your child’s special day, these class designed to burn hundreds of calories at a time! fun-filled celebrations include cowboy hats, bandanOctober 18 Zumba Thursdays in October: Yoga,party Vida employees, Wellness Studio, 247 nas, food, paper products, twoand private Crooks Ave., Clifton, (347)268-9940, www.vidawellnessnow.com. pumpkin picking, and an unforgettable old-fashioned Saturday Happenings, Slo-complimentary Vida Wellness Studio hosts The a special class to first time hayride.

Reservations are required.

Available Saturdays cum/Skewes School, Ridgefield, clients. Stop in for a great latin-style aerobic dance workout followed through October 25.ext.

338. by(201)943-4299, an amazing yoga class.

All The levels welcome. 7-9pm.

Slocum/Skewes School is proud Saturdays Throughout to present the returnOctober: of weeklyNinja Martial Arts for Children, Passaic Bujinkan Buyu, 35 Harding Ave # 2, Clifton, New Jersey, one-hour enrichment classes in (609)379-BUYU (2898), www.passaic-bujinkan-buyu.setec=: Museum reading, math, science, art, karate, andRoad, more.

Advance Tours, Hamilton House Museum, 971 Valley Clifton, (973)744October 12is museum registration required. againlived on October 5707.

Drop by the to Presented learn how people in the past, as well as a little history of the area, during a weekly tour of the eye-catching 25, November 1, 15, and 22.

9am-noon.

The 32nd Annual Octoberfest restored Dutch farmhouse. 2-4pm.

Craft Show, Demarest Duck Pond, Piermont Road and Hardenburgh Ave., Demarest, (201)403-3183, www.demarOctober 18This estnaturecenter.org. popular fundraising event features 75 quality crafters from Clifton Downtown Street the tri-state area, as well as a fantastic selection of German Fair, 1119 Main St., Clifton, music and food, inflatable games, canoe rides, and more. www.jcpromotions.info.

The Clifton Downtown Economic Development Group proudly presents this semi-annual street fair, featuring an array of vendors, crafters, kiddie rides, great food, pony rides, music, and more. 10am-5pm.

October 18

Saturday Happenings, The Slocum/Skewes School, Ridgefield, Ongoing Throughout the Fall: Ice Skating for Families, The Ice (201)943-4299, ext. 338.

The Drive, Wayne, (973)628-1500, www.

Vault Skating Arena, 10 Nevins icevault.com. Tie up your Slocum/Skewes School is skates proudand treat your family to some of the events on ice at Vault. The state-of- the-art indoor skating to coolest present the return ofIce weekly facility offers something for everyone, including classes for tots, adults one-hour enrichment classes in and hockey. reading, math, science, art, karate, and more. Advance registration is required. again on October Ongoing Throughout thePresented Fall: Soccer for Kids, Kiddie Soccer, various in Bergen, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Passaic and 25,locations November 1, 15,Essex, and 22.

9am-noon.

Somerset Counties, (973)543-1197, www.kiddiesoccer.com. The top of the line sports program that preschoolers are sure to get a “kick” out of gets underway for another exciting spring season!

Union

Saturday and Sunday in October

Bergen

Suffo

Hudson

Nass

Rockland

Manh

Morris

Quee

Sussex

Westch

Cat and Kitten Adoption, PetSmart, 155 New York 59, Nanuet, (845)620-1301. Do you have room in your heart and home to adopt a beautiful and loving cat or kitten? Drop by any Saturday or Sunday this month to visit with beautiful cats and kittens that would love to be your fur-ever friend. 11:30-4pm.

All Month Long

October 3: Pearl River Farmers’ Market, The River, 253 Ehrhardt Road, Pearl River, (914)806-5455. The market will feature conventional and organic produce from Hudson Valley farmers, fresh baked goods, cut flowers, children’s books, activities and entertainment for children, prepared food from Rockland Roots, and more. Fridays through October 31. 9am-2pm.

October 4: Nyack Farmers’ Market, Municipal Parking Lot, Main St., Nyack, www.nyackchamber.org. The Nyack Chamber of Commerce brightens your Saturday in this weekly program that highlights local farmers and specialty food producers. Saturdays through November 22. 8am-1pm.

Middlesex

Tuesdays Throughout October: CounterStrike - Women’s Personal Safety/Self-Defense Workshops, The Workout Place, 12 Bardonia Mall, Bardonia, (845)624-2244, www.workoutplace.org. This weekly workshop covers an array of important self defense topics.

Monmouth

Tuesday and Wednesday in October: Play at the J, The JCC of Rockland, West Nyack, (845)362-4400, www.jccrockland.org. Special program for children ages 24 months and younger.

Somerset Calendar

of Events

Share your event details by the 1st of the preceding month

October 18 Clifton Downtown Street In order to ensure the best possible Fair, 1119 Main St., Clifton, experience at community events and www.jcpromotions.info. programs, please check with the host before The Clifton Downtown attending in case details have changed.

Economic Development Group proudly presents this semi-annual street fair, featuring an array of vendors, crafters, kiddie rides, great food, your needs, your neighborhood pony rides, music, and more. 10am-5pm.

Submit family activities and events FREE of charge at www.parentguidenews.com/Catalog/SubmitACalendarItem or e-mail Donald McDermott: Donald@parentguidenews.com October 2014 I parentguide News I 41

UPDATE

by Donald McDermott

2

3

1

4 5 6

7

8

9

10 1 Keep your bundle of joy warm, cozy, and safe all year with the moon cocoon wearable duvet. www.niniandpumpkin.com/products

6 Easy to clean, 100-percent silicone, and non-toxic, the animalshaped Baby Bibs from Ulubulu are a perfect gift for new parents. www.ulubulu.com/products

2 Welcome your new baby with cuddly organic clothes from Wee Urban. Its Bring Me Home Gift Sets offer unique, genderneutral options designed to keep little ones snugly and warm. www.weeurban.com

7 Designed with both baby and mommy in mind, the multi-functional nursing blanket from Me Beau Bébé comes with various features to maximize comfort, privacy, and functionality. wwww.mebeaubebe.com

3 Golden Thread’s heirloom-worthy jewelry comes in styles for one and all. Its Baby & Child collection features kid-appropriate sizes. www.goldenthreadshop.com

8 Difrax, the well-known European baby products company, has a new creation that is at the forefront of orthodontic pacifiers. Its 3-stage pacifier system features bold, colorful, and stylish patterns designed to meet baby’s needs at every age. www.difrax.com

4 The affordable, high-quality Advanced Double Electric Breast Pump by Evenflo features a PerfectlyPure™ design that prevents milk backup. www.evenflofeeding.com

9 The Angelcare® AC 605 Movement & Sound Monitor comes with an under-the-mattress sensor pad and two state-of-the-art Parent Units for added reassurance that baby is safely asleep. www.angelcarebaby.com

5 Hypo-allergenic and fully supportive, the San Diego Bebe EcoNursing Pillow offers comfort for both mom and baby. www.doubleblessings.com

10 A leader in universal compact electronic gear for smartphones, tablets, and digital and action cameras is proud to present the iStabilizer Monopod and Bluetooth Shutter Remote. www.istabilizer.com

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

SK 10/14

42 I parentguide News I October 2014

Donald McDermott is the managing editor. parentguidenews.com

three outdoor playgrounds

• Open all year 7:00AM - 6:30PM • Ages 6 weeks - Kindergarten • Full Day Kindergarten • Breakfast, lunch + 2 snacks included • Certified teachers • Registered nurse • CPR & First aid trained staff We offer piano lessons and yoga in addition to our regular exciting program.

43 I parentguide News I October 2014

parentguidenews.com

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Call or schedule a free introductory class online.

Caldwell – 973-228-1787 Englewood South – 201-567-8880 Hasbrouck Heights – 201-288-5556 Montclair – 973-744-1002 Waldwick – 201-445-4444 Wayne – 973-305-0600

Now offering Hip Hop at select locations!

www.thelittlegym.com

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