Boston Parent September 2017 by Parenting Media

SEPTEMBER 2017

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Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

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September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

Contents September 2017 |

Volume 33 • Number 1

F E AT U R E S

Rescheduling the School Day

Head Off Homework Battles

Later starts for middle and high school.

Tips to stay on track and alleviate stress.

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E 6 Family F.Y.I

Super Food of the Month Grandparent’s Day Music to Our Ears

10 Featured Products

12 Bookshelf

New Graphic Novels

19 Family Cents Meaningful Gifts

Open House Events..... 26

In Sickness and in Health

34 Singleminded

New Early Development Toys

Directories 22 Farms 24 Schools & Childcare Centers 30 Entertainment & Party Needs 31 Classes and Enrichment

Boston Parent 841 Worcester Street Suite 344 Natick, MA 01760 Tel/Fax 617-522-1515 Visit us online at BostonParentsPaper.com PUBLISHERS Robert and Tracy McKean

21 Family Calendar Farm Events ........ 22

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

ART DIRECTOR Debbi Murzyn ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jean Abernathy CALENDAR EDITOR Andrea Michelson ADVERTISING SALES Holly Castro, David Morney

Boston Parents Paper is published monthly by Parenting Media Inc. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. 60,000 copies of Boston Parents Paper are distributed to more than 1600 locations in the region. Past issues are available on our website, www.BostonParentsPaper.com Send letters to the editor or article submissions to editor@bostonparent.com. Submit events to our Family Friendly Calendar at bostonparentspaper.com/event/

Fall Open House Free Admission for All! Monday, October 9, 2017 Enjoy a day of family fun including art making, dance, and live musical performances.

mfa.org/openhouse Sponsored by Ameriprise Financial.

Programming made possible by The Lowell Institute.

Photo ÂŠ Tony Rinaldo.

September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

✼ Family F.Y.I. ENTER TO WIN: 4 Tickets to PJ Masks Live! Time to Be a Hero is a super-heroic, brand new live show, featuring the heroic trio from your favorite series: The PJ Masks! Watch Catboy, Owlette and Gekko as they try to save the day from their sneaky villains – Romeo, Night Ninja and Luna Girl! Fluttering Feathers! Leaping Lizards! What a CAT-tastrophe! You’ve NEVER seen the PJ Masks like this before – leaping, flipping and climbing – live on stage! Complete with your favorite music and brand new songs you’ve never heard before! Don’t sleep through it – watch the PJ Masks save the day, live on stage! Enter here, http:// bostonparentspaper.com/content/promotions.html

LOOKING FOR STRIDE RITE SHOES? Stride Rite has closed down its physical store locations, opting to

sell shoes exclusively online instead and through local retailers. While online shopping may be convenient, you can’t beat the hand-to-foot service that local stores offer. Parents who value in-person sizing and knowledgeable staff should not fear—several independent shoe retailers in the Boston area will continue to carry Stride Rite in their stores. Shop local at the stores listed below: • Michelson’s Shoes in Lexington and Needham

• Shoe Market Kids in Cohasset

• The Kids Barn in West Newton

• Hyman’s Pennyworth’s in Newburyport

• Abbott Factory Shoes in North Reading

• St. Pierre’s Shoes in Taunton

– Andrea Michelson

Super Food of the Month

pple picking season’s here! That old adage about keeping the doctor away is true, so take advantage of your rich-in-antioxidant harvest. Try apple marinade or apple salsa, in addition to the usual apple crisp, applesauce and pie. Apple butter made overnight in a crock pot is yummy, too. Visit BostonParentsPaper.com/applepicking for a list of local orchards.

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

Happy Grandparents Day!

nnually the first Sunday after Labor Day is celebrated as Grandparents Day. The tradition started in 1978 while President Jimmy Carter was in office and has carried through to today because, well, who doesn’t love to honor Grandma and Grandpa? So whether your child can see theirs in person to offer a hug or have to settle for a phone call, make sure to let ’em know they’re loved.

Music to Our Ears September is Classical Music Month and if you aren’t already a fan of the genre, you may be surprised by some of its alleged benefits. Classical music has been shown to help treat insomnia in college students (if only it worked on toddlers!) and a study found that playing it softly while dining actually encouraged people to eat slower and therefore consume fewer calories. Read more about kids and classical music by visiting BostonParentsPaper.com/classicalmusic

SEPTEMBER COOP KIDS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Back to School

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Visit from the Poky Puppy & Stories about adventures. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Ahoy Mateys, it's talk like a pirate day! SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Celebrate colors & feelings. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Celebrate habitats and the different places animals live.

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EVERY MONDAY at 11:00 AM OUTDOOR STORYTIME Come enjoy hearing your favorite children's stories at Turner Fountain outside Harvard's Science Center. Outdoor event is shine only. EVERY TUESDAY at 11:00 AM STORYTIME Children ages 1 to 6 and their caregivers are welcome to join us for stories and snacks. All events are free, open to the public and are held in the Children’s Book Department.

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30 Warren Street Brighton, MA 02135 617-254-3800 FranciscanChildrens.org September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

✼ Family F.Y.I.

14%

While you may think your high schooler can’t wait to flex his or her independence as far away from home as possible, only 14 percent of college freshmen attend a school 500 or more miles away from their parents. All the easier to bring home their laundry on weekends, don’t you think?

Kahal B’raira Humanistic Judaism in Greater Boston Since 1975

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Visitors are invited to these upcoming events: Sunday School Open House: September 10, 2017 from 9:00am to Noon Rosh Hashanah Services: September 20 & 21, 2017 Yom Kippur Services: September 29 & 30, 2017 All Sunday services and educational programs.

Humanistic Judaism celebrates Jewish culture, identity, and community in a fun, welcoming environment.

Boosters and the back seat: Car seat safety is important for kids of all ages! Kathy Kiley, BSN, RN, CPEN, Nurse Educator GIVE ME A BOOST! When most kids turn 8 they think they can graduate out of their booster seat. The fact is that most children don’t fit properly in a vehicle’s seat belt until they are 10 or 11. Keep your child in a forward-facing car seat with a harness and tether until he or she reaches the height or weight limits allowed by the car seat’s manufacturer. Then it’s time to travel in a booster seat until he or she is big enough to fit in a seat belt properly. Using a belt-positioning booster seat keeps your child safe by helping the seat belt fit properly over the stronger parts of the body. Seats are available with and without back portions. Whatever seat you choose, be sure your child fits in it properly: the lap belt should lie low and snug over the thighs, and the shoulder belt should cross the shoulder without touching the neck, then cross the middle of the chest. One of the benefits of using a booster with a high back is that it has a built-in seat belt guide to prevent the belt from touching the neck. IT’S THE LAW! In Massachusetts the child passenger safety law states that all children must be secured in a federally approved car seat until they are 8 years or 4 foot 9 inches. Most states have child passenger safety laws with booster seat provisions which help reduce injuries and deaths by requiring children who have outgrown car seats to use booster seats through age 8 or until the seat belt fits properly. A study of five states with booster seat provisions in their law showed a decreased rate of children who sustained fatal or incapacitating injuries by 17%. 20% OF BOOSTER SEATS ARE MISUSED. Don’t move into or out of a booster seat too early! Use a booster until at least 4 feet 9 inches tall and between 80 and 100 pounds. Most kids will be between ages 8 to 12 years old, not the 8 years of age required by law. Don’t move a child out of a car seat and into a booster before they are big enough: this causes unsafe belt positioning which could cause injury. Do not let the child put the shoulder belt under their arm or behind their back. THE BACK SEAT IS SAFER!. The back seat is safest for kids! Children seated in a booster seat in the back seat of the car are 45% less likely to be injured in a crash than children using a seat belt alone. Keep your child in the backseat through age 12.

Learn more:

www.communityofchoice.org 617-431-3994 Pre-K to 9 • Bar/Bat Mitzvah Study • Adult Ed 8

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

UNBUCKLED IN THE BACK SEAT. Rear seat passengers are 3x more likely to die in a crash if unbelted! Talk with everyone who drives your kids so they understand that booster seat use is a must when your child is in their car.

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New Balance has all the footwear you need for Back to School

Fall into French

at the French cultural center Course registration is open for all members and non-members for our fall session! Sign up by September 1 and receive 10% off on ten-week classes for kids ages 4+ with our Early Bird Discount.

Our classes for kids and teens offer: • • • •

Native French-speaking teachers A full immersion experience without ever leaving Boston An interactive experiential learning approach A varied and engaging curriculum for all levels from beginner to bilingual • Courses available for children and teens ages 1 to 17

Visit Michelson’s Shoes where our footwear fitting specialists are knowledgeable, patient and experienced; here to listen to your needs and measure both your feet!

1780 Massachusetts Ave., Lexington 781.862.1034 1082 Great Plain Ave., Needham 781.448.2753 www.michelsonshoes.com September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

✼ Featured Products Early Childhood Development Fun! Shake & Reveal Counting Cards Kids count all the way to 10—using fun visual cues like chocolate chips, a giraffe’s spots and more! Kids just slide a card into the window box and give it a shake... then watch in amazement as the permanently enclosed magnetic shavings complete the illustration—helping kids count out the number printed at the top. You get 10 magnetic cards and a 4-7/8” x 5-7/8” window box. $19.99: Ages 3 yrs. - 7 yrs. LakeshoreLearning.com

Lakeshore Alphabet Rockets Alphabet skills are ready for liftoff—with hands-on rockets that make language practice a blast! Each double-sided rocket features 3 easy-fitting pieces that show the upper- & lowercase letter, plus 4 pictures that represent the letter sound. Kids just match up the pieces to build each rocket—boosting letter recognition and exploring letter sounds as they play! 26 durable plastic rockets (for a total of 78 pieces); rockets are 5” tall. $59.99: Ages 24 mos. - 6 yrs. LakeshoreLearning.com

Ladybug Number Match Our ladybugs help children practice counting, match numbers to quantities & more! Kids just count up the dots on a ladybug—then find the leaf with the matching numeral from 1 to 10. Each leaf has a self-correcting peg that only fits the matching ladybug, so our set is perfect for independent practice. Set of 10 plastic ladybug counters and leaves, plus a guide. Leaves are 3 3/4” long. $15.99: Ages 18 mos. - 4 yrs. LakeshoreLearning.com

usscm.org | 617-426-1812 • Interactive exhibits for all ages! • Open 7 days a week • Admission by donation 10

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

“The best hands-on Museum I’ve seen.”

Get Ahead this School Year with Brain Training

Troubled by executive function struggles, ADHD, autism, anxiety, or learning/behavioral problems? We provide safe, effective, drug-free treatment that starts with a quantitative EEG brain map. Once we pinpoint discordant rhythms in the brain, our neurofeedback sessions correct brain imbalances and promote sustained improvements in function, resulting in a substantial reduction or elimination of symptoms. We host free educational workshops: visit us online for details!

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GROUPS OF 10+ CALL 617.532.1116 Boch Center is a trademark of The Wang Center for the Performing Arts, Inc.

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September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

✼ Bookshelf

New Graphic Novels by Mary Ann Scheuer

raphic novels are a huge hit, but did you realize that they bolster students’ confidence and reading skills? Kids enjoy reading them, and this makes them want to read more. They also build a sense of story structure, character development and vocabulary. Here’s a selection of new graphic novels to share with kids this fall. “Dog Man: A Tale of Two Kitties,” by Dav Pilkey (Graphix/Scholastic; 256 pp.; $9.99; ages 6-10). Our hero Dog Man has his paws full when his nemesis Petey the cat creates an adorable mini-me with a U-Clone-’Em machine. But Lil’ Petey refuses to be evil and thwarts plans, wins over the furious fish. Kids love the goofy humor in this new favorite from the creator of Captain Underpants.

“The Great Art Caper,” by Victoria Jamieson (Henry Holt/Macmillan; 64 pp.; $7.99; ages 5-9). The secondgraders’ classroom pet, George Washington the hamster, continues his adventures with friends Barry the bunny and Sunflower the guinea pig, this time saving the students’ art show from sabotage by the mischievous mouse Harriet. Young readers new to graphic novels will love imagining the secret life of their classroom pets. “Hilo 3: The Great Big Boom,” by Judd Winick (Random House; 208 pp.; $13.99; ages 7-12). When Hilo the robot boy crashed to Earth, he met DJ Lim, an ordinary boy who was the best of friends. In this new installment, Hilo and DJ must track down their pal Gina when she’s sucked into a mysterious portal. My students love Hilo’s outrageous humor as well as the true friendship between DJ, Gina and Hilo. “Older Than Dirt: A Wild but True Story of Earth,” by Don Brown and Dr. Mike Perfit (HMH; 112 pp.; $18.99; ages 9-14). This engaging nonfiction graphic novel explains a wide range of earth science, including the Big Bang, the formation of landmasses and the development of different life forms, all the way to modern climate change. The illustrations and brief text make the complex issues accessible, and the groundhog’s banter with her worm friend adds essential comic relief. F ED ER AT I O N F O R C H I LD R EN W I T H S P E C I A L N EED S

Informing, Educating, Empowering Families

“…Mary was a bookworm. Sometimes when her siblings went out to play, she’d stay at home reading. Other times when she joined them, as often as not she’d eventually slip away to a secluded spot where they’d find her later, engrossed in a book.”

— From A World More Bright: The Life of Mary Baker Eddy by Isabel Ferguson and Heather Vogel Frederick

FIRST and THIRD TUESDAY of each month

10:30-11:15 AM In this children’s program, young visitors will not only listen to stories but also engage in playful activities. Recommended for bookworms 5 years old and younger with adults.

* “when a shuffle meets a hobble” - Chelsey Kendig, self-advocate

Sunday, October 1, 2017: 12-3 pm Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children (formerly the Massachusetts Hospital School)

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No registration required. 200 Massachusetts Ave., Boston 02115 For more information, please contact our Educational Programs Coordinator 617-450-7203 | palladinom@mbelibrary.org

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

The Schrafft Center | 529 Main Street, Suite 1M3 | Boston, MA 02129 | 617-236-7210 | info@fcsn.org

“One Trick Pony,” by Nathan Hale (Abrams; 128 pp.; $14.95; ages 8-12). Hostile aliens have devastated Earth in search of technology, but Strata and her friends stumble upon a cache of robots, including a super robot pony. Determined to protect her family and friends from the wrath of the alien Pipers, Strata leads the aliens on a wild chase in this fast-paced sci-fi adventure. “Real Friends,” by Shannon Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham (First Second; 224 pp.; $12.99; ages 8-12). In this graphic novel memoir, Shannon Hale focuses on the trouble she had figuring out friendship issues throughout elementary school. The format is perfect for this audience — blending images, short text and visual storytelling to help young readers see just how hard friendship issues really are and understand some ways through them. “The Sand Warrior,” by Mark Siegel and Alexis Siegel, illustrated by Xanthe Bouma, Matt Rockefeller and Boya Sun (Random House; 256 pp.; $12.99; ages 10-13). This complex fantasy launches a new series, 5 Worlds, as young sand dancer Oona Lee finds the courage, wisdom and skills to save her planet and friends from destruction. This epic quest will appeal to fantasy lovers who

Lakeshore

will want to read it carefully, gleaning many clues from the interweaving storylines. Outstanding visual feel to the many worlds, with characters of many sizes, shapes, and skin tones. “Super Narwhal and Jelly Jolt,” by Ben Clanton (Tundra; 64 pp.; $7.99; ages 6-10). This is a terrific graphic novel for beginning readers, with cheerful Narwhal who’s determined to be a superhero. Narwhal’s superpower turns out to being a true friend, especially when his best friend Jelly is nervous at every turn. Adorable and charming, perfect for kids who’ve moved beyond Elephant & Piggie. “Swing It, Sunny,” by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm (Graphix/Scholastic; 224 pp.; $12.99; ages 9-12). The book is set in the 1976-77 school year, and Sunny is starting middle school after spending a summer with Gramps (in “Sunny Side Up”). When her big brother Dale is sent to military boarding school after getting into trouble with drugs, Sunny worries about him. This poignant narrative authentically captures a young tween’s family struggles and developing friendships. Mary Ann Scheuer is a teacher librarian. Find more books Mary Ann recommends sharing with children at her blog, Great Kid Books, http://greatkidbooks.blogspot. com.

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Rescheduling

the School Day

Later starts for middle and high school. By Susan Solomon Yem

iven the choice, Damarisse Valladares, a junior in high school, would prefer a later start time to the school day. “I think there are a lot of reasons starting school later would be good,” says Damarisse. “Families would have more time to get to school, so I believe there would be less tardiness. If students could wake up later, they would feel less drowsy and be more alert. We could start the day more relaxed, feeling less stress.”

Teens Need More Sleep Students like Damarisse are not the only advocates for a later start to the school day. In 2014, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published a study reporting that on school nights, 87 percent of high school students and 59 percent of middle school students slept less than the 8.5 to 9.5 hours recommended by health experts. The primary reason is early school starts that conflict with

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

the students’ circadian rhythms — their bodies’ 24hour physiological cycle. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) concurs and, along with the AAP, recommends that the start to the middle and high school day be 8:30 a.m. Few schools are following this advice. In fact, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, the

“More and more athletic directors are coming to recognize that later school start times go hand-in-hand with successful athletic programs. Athletes who get healthier sleep are likely to be stronger, safer and more successful on the playing field.” — Ziporyn Snider average school start time in the U.S. is 7:59 a.m. Many Boston public middle and high schools have staggered starts beginning as early as 7:25 a.m. and as late as 9:30 a.m. Massachusetts has one of the earliest start times for high school students in the country. “The reason so many middle and high schools have early bell times has to do with finding ways to save money,” says Terra Ziporyn Snider, PhD, Executive Director and Co-founder of Start School Later (startschoolater.net), a coalition of health professionals, sleep scientists, educators, parents, students and other concerned citizens dedicated to increasing public awareness about the relationships between sleep and school hours. Ziporyn Snider explains that school systems wanted to save money on busing costs. “But even schools districts that don’t bus kids moved earlier to match their hours with the majority of schools. This helped with

afterschool activities as well as staff needs.”

Dangers of Lack of Sleep The National Sleep Foundation determined in a 2010 report that two-thirds of high school students get less than seven hours of sleep, and 33 percent of teenagers report falling asleep in school. Insufficient sleep in teens is associated with obesity, migraines and immune system disruption. It contributes to risky behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, stimulant abuse, depression and suicidal tendencies. Contrary to common belief, school schedules are not set to accommodate working parents. Ziporyn Snider explains, “The whole idea that schools now run at times that help working families is absurd. In the same district, an elementary school may open at 9:00 a.m. and an early start school may close at 2:00 p.m. No matter

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what, parents have to work around school schedules and adjust their lives.” “I can see pluses and minuses for adjusting the start to the school day,” says Dan Robinson, middle and high school principal. “There is empirical evidence that a later morning start is healthier for teens, but that necessitates a later afternoon dismissal, and that’s tough on school sports programs.” “More and more athletic directors are coming to recognize that later school start times go hand-in-hand with successful athletic programs,” counters Ziporyn Snider. “Athletes who get healthier sleep are likely to be stronger, safer and more successful on the playing field.” A study published in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics in March 2014, titled Chronic Lack of Sleep Is Associated with Increased Sports Injuries in Adolescent Athletes, concluded that sleep deprivation appears to be associated with injuries in the adolescent athletic population. “Encouraging young athletes to get optimal amounts of sleep may help protect them against athletic injuries.”

Legislative Response Since 2014, three states have passed bills related to this issue. This past April, the California Legislature passed SB 328, which mandates that the school day for middle and high schools begin no earlier than 8:30 a.m. It will now go before the appropriations committee and the full State Assembly for approval. An early start to the school day is not an American idea. Countries around the world begin the day at times close to those in U.S. cities. Chinese students attend school from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. but enjoy a two-hour lunch. The school day in Japan and the United Kingdom begins at 8:45 a.m., but 8:00 a.m. seems to be the norm in many countries. School calendars have seen few changes in the last 100 years. Ziporyn Snider says, “People don’t like change. They assume that the way things are done now is the best way, but there is evidence from hundreds of school districts that confirm that the later start is a good thing.” Between 2010 and 2013, the CDC funded a study on academic success in high schools with later start times. Eight high schools in five school districts in Minnesota, Colorado and Wyoming participated. There were significant decreases in absences and tardiness in all grades. Grade-point averages increased for first-period classes.

What You Can Do Access local, state and national petitions to start school later at (http://www.startschoollater.net/sign-orstart-a-petition.html). Join Start School Later. There are 94 chapters in 26 states and the District of Columbia. “Healthy school hours are a fundamental part of student health and well-being,” concludes Ziporyn Snider. “This should be a priority.” As the mother of five, Susan Solomon Yem has experienced all kinds of parenting. Tell her your stories at susansyem@ gmail.com

It’s Time

to Do Your Homework! By Rona Renner, RN

omework battles can be heard all over town each night as parents attempt to help their children manage their time and complete their tasks. Some children can focus easily and breeze through their work, while others have trouble getting started, may get frustrated easily or get distracted by the slightest noise. If you approach homework time with a calm and encouraging attitude, your child can eventually learn to get it done without complaining and yelling. The skills you help your child develop in doing homework will serve him or her well in college or in the work world. You’re not alone if you and your child find homework time to be a stressful part of the day. Even

5-year-olds are asked to do homework, which can interfere with their important work called “play.” Many parents are exhausted in the late afternoon and evening and become impatient as they try and get dinner made and on the table before tackling homework. Many children have after-school programs and sports and come home wanting downtime instead of memorizing spelling words. A homework plan is definitely needed, unless you have an independent and compliant child who doesn’t need reminders or direction. Teachers give homework to help children learn responsibility and develop and practice skills. It’s also a good way for parents to be involved in their child’s education. Many teachers

use homework as a diagnostic tool to understand a child’s strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important for parents not to do their children’s homework for them. There are some schools and teachers who don’t think homework is needed, but most schools still require it. All children need time to relax and connect with family, so it’s important that the amount of homework is reasonable. If you think your child is getting too much homework, you can ask the teacher to help you understand why he or she is giving so much. You are your child’s best advocate, so find out why your child is stressed by the amount or type of work required. Keep track of how long the homework takes over the course of September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

the week, and then talk to the teacher about your observations. Sometimes children struggle with homework because of learning differences, not because they don’t want to do the work. Watch and see which subjects are hard, and don’t get angry if your child gets frustrated. Your child may not be able to tell you that he or she is having trouble remembering how to pronounce certain words or how to access the multiplication table in his or her mind. Here are some tips your family can use to stay on track with homework: Have a family meeting to establish homework guidelines. Some children need some time to play or relax right after school, while others prefer to get their homework done right away. Talk with your child, and come up with a plan together that fits well with his or her temperament and age. Some questions to consider are: • Who does your child like to get help from? • What environment and room does he

or she work well in? • What time of day is best? • Set aside a quiet time for everyone in the family to decrease distractions. Although turning off the television is essential, some kids do well with music playing during homework time. Experiment to see if music helps or hinders. • When children are hungry, they have a harder time concentrating. Offer a healthy snack before or during homework. • Organize supplies, and have them easily accessible. A big homework box with everything your child needs works well. • Give positive feedback when you see your child making efforts. “Mateo, your handwriting is getting so easy to read. I see you’ve been working hard at it.” • Don’t criticize when your child makes a mistake. If there’s a regular problem, talk to the teacher about his or her expectations. • Pay attention to your stress level. Take slow easy breaths, and stay calm.

After a long day of school and work, everyone is tired. • If your child gets frustrated easily, he or she may want to do homework at the kitchen table to be near you. Help your child get started. Some children need more help than others, so respect different temperaments and learning styles. • If your child complains frequently, evaluate the homework to see if it’s too hard. • A timer can help a child to pace his or her work and to take breaks at reasonable intervals. Some children will work for five minutes and think they’ve been at it for much longer. • Allow computer or TV time after the homework is done. This incentive to complete the assignment works for many children. Most likely, homework is harder now than when you were in school. Help your child enjoy learning, and don’t expect perfection. Rona Renner, RN (“Nurse Rona”), is a nurse, a parent educator and a temperament specialist. You can learn more about her at www.nurserona.com.

Sign Up for a World-Class Math Education The Russian School of Mathematics is an award-winning, afterschool math enrichment program for K-12 students. Ranked “among the top 10 schools in the world” by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, we help children of all levels build a solid math foundation and develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. We offer year-round enrollment with a free math evaluation. Our branches are hosting Open Houses before the school year begins. Meet the principal, tour the branch, and see what RSM can do to advance your child’s math education.

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Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

✼ Family Cents

Meaningful Gifts The gift of a bike is one of the best investments you’ll ever make in your kid. By Aaron Crowe

I biked to a shopping center and spent some of my spare change on a soda. I biked to friends’ houses all over town. I biked with a buddy for miles to a creek on a hot summer day so we could cool off and catch frogs. Eventually, I rode my bike to school, summer jobs and errands, and I used it for paper routes.

My memories of that gift got me thinking about other great gifts that either I’ve received or we’ve given to our daughter. Not just great from the standpoint of fun, but from helping to gain skills to be used throughout life. There are all kinds of educational toys that parents give their children

Having that freedom allowed me to become self-sufficient and independent and gave me more people to interact with. It also got me out of the house. Having that freedom allowed me to become self-sufficient and independent and gave me more people to interact with. It also got me out of the house. Last Christmas my wife and I bought our daughter, then age 12, ne of my favorite childhood a bike. In fact, we bought bikes for memories is enjoying the all three of us. So far it hasn’t turned freedom a bike gave me. As into the bike-riding family that I soon as I learned to ride a bike, I imagined, mainly because of heavy remember being able to explore our rains for months, but my hope is that neighborhood more and ride far into it will at least give my daughter room a field behind our house. to enjoy the freedom to be out on her That freedom, I think, is one of the own. best gifts parents can give children She hasn’t used it as much as and is one way to teach them to I thought she would, but I’m still become responsible adults. hopeful it turns into one of the best With that freedom to roam my gifts she’s ever received. My first neighborhood came the responsibil- bike didn’t last for too many years, ity to bike farther out and make sure but a bike my parents gave me one I was home on time. It also gave me Christmas when I was about my a chance to explore more of my little daughter’s age lasted me through world. college.

with the hope that it will spark an interest that could lead to a career, better learning skills or at least open a door that they’ll want to explore more of. We’ve given our daughter plenty of those types of gifts — all starting with the idea that they’ll be a lot of fun too — and I think the telescope we gave her is one of the best. I had a standing telescope when I was a child, and I remember staring at the moon for long stretches of time with it at night and wondering what was out there. Music is another gift that I think is great for kids, or anyone for that matter. Knowing which album to get someone can be difficult, so a gift card may work best. I have strong memories of going to a record store on my bike on the day a new album came out and playing it at home for

September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

We’re trying to raise a child who will love the world and being in it, and showing her the importance of taking time off to enjoy life is a gift that I wish she’ll take full advantage of. Maybe a bike will be a small part of that. hours and memorizing the lyrics to my favorite songs. My daughter is the same way, though with digital music. She sings and dances to new music, and I’m positive she didn’t inherit her dance moves from me. A gift we give ourselves as a family each year is a vacation. Some years it’s more intensive than others, depending on our budget, but the point is to go away for a few weeks or more and visit someplace new. Last summer, for example, we spent all of July in Europe. Dealing with new things, such as food, people and places, is the main skill we want to teach her. Experiencing new cultures or new places is something we hope she’ll continue to do in adulthood.

Finally, I try to give my daughter the gift of me taking time off to do things with her. I realize this may not be the best gift a child would want, and that a new iPod, book or anything else would please her in the short term. I remember my dad taking me out of school a few times to go fishing. While I wasn’t a big fan of fishing, he was, and it was always fun to be out with him. My freelance work allows me to set my own hours, so I’m free in the afternoon to do things with her. I also take days off from time to time to do something with her or pick something to do on a whim because we have the time. We’ve bought rush tickets a few times this year when my wife was working, giving me a

chance to take my daughter out for lunch and a musical. I don’t know if she’ll be able to do that with her children someday, but I hope that she at least sees the benefits of taking a weekday off and going to a baseball game or something else. We’re trying to raise a child who will love the world and being in it, and showing her the importance of taking time off to enjoy life is a gift that I wish she’ll take full advantage of. Maybe a bike will be a small part of that. Aaron Crowe is a freelance journalist who specializes in writing about personal finance. He writes for a number of websites, including his own at CashSmarter.com.

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September

Calendar

By Andrea Michelson

SATURDAY, SEPT. 2

Butterfly Census 10am to noon, Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, 1280 Horseneck Road, Westport. Savor the last remnants of summer, enjoy some time outdoors and learn about butterflies at the annual Allens Pond Butterfly Census. For ages 2 and up. FREE. 508-636-2437; massaudubon.org

Want more events? Go online today!

September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

Get Lost! O

ur local farms offer so much more than just delicious produce. Several feature corn mazes, oftentimes with puzzles to solve within. Some provide the opportunity to explore them at night by flashlight. Lace up your sneakers and head on in! Connors Farm, 30 Valley Road, Danvers. Maze is open daily from Sept. 9 – Oct. 1. Admission includes additional activities like pig races, bounce houses and barnyard animals. 978-777-1245; connorsfarm.com Pakeen Farm, 109 Elm Street, Canton. This mini maze is perfect for the mini-kid. Enough maze to have the experience without overwhelming the younger crowd. Fall harvest hours start Sept 7, open Thurs - Sun., 781-828-011, www.pakeenfarm.com Kimball Farm, 780 East Broadway, Haverhill. Maze opens on weekends starting Sept. 10; a haunted maze is also offered. 978-807-3214; www.kimballfarmhaverhill.net/cornmazeagritainment.html Marini Farm, 259 Linebrook Road, Ipswich. Maze is open 7 days a week starting Sept. 9 – Oct. 31, with flashlight nights on select weekends. 978-238-9386; marinicornmaze.com

FARMS

Fun family events you don’t want to miss! Plus pick your own pumpkins! SUN., SEPT. 10, 11AM-3PM Farm Day & BBQ • BBQ & Apple Pie Contest • Farm tours • Traditional BBQ made in Verrill Farm’s smoker, sides & desserts • Live music by Boston Road Bluegrass • Pony & hay rides • Petting zoo • 4 H animals • Apple Pie Contest 11am-1pm • Games & Prizes

SAT., OCT. 7, 11AM-3PM Annual Harvest Festival & Benefit for Emerson Hospital • Face Painting • Games & Prizes • Pick-your-own pumpkins • Entertainment • Food • Raffle • Pony, hay rides & Petting zoo • Live music by Monadnock Bluegrass

978-369-4494 • 11 Wheeler Rd., Concord

V E R R I L L FA R M . C O M

RUSSELL ORCHARDS FARM & WINERY Summer bounty! y! Raspberries, blueberries, ies, heirloom tomatoes and veggies, and fresh baked ked goods every day. Check the website for statuss on pick-your-own raspberries raaspbbeerr erriies es and and blueberries. blu bl ueberries u uebe ue b i 143 Argilla Rd., Ipswich, wich MA Summer Summeer hours: 8-7 8 7 dail daily!

www.RussellOrchards.com facebook.com/russellorchards @russellorchards

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

7 acre corn maze

Open from Sept. 9th - Oct. 31st 9am-6pm

Numerous Farm Fun Activities such as apple picking, hayrides, farm animals, jumping pillow, and much more...

Children’s Birthday Parties

www.connorsfarm.com for details 30 Valley Road, Danvers • 978-777-1245

All events are subject to change or cancellation. We recommend calling first to confirm and purchasing tickets in advance whenever possible.

1 Friday Gloucester Schooner Festival Varying times, Gloucester Harbor, Gloucester. Artisans, entertainment, food and more await at this major maritime and sailing event. Sunday morning’s Parade of Sail is a highlight. FREE. Through Sept. 3. gloucesterschoonerfestival.net

Dirtopia! 10am – 2pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Dig, sculpt and squish in a giant pile of dirt. Dress for a mess. Drop in. Free with admission. Through Sept. 4. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org

Patriot Place Outdoor Movie Series 6pm, Patriot Place, 2 Patriot Place, Foxboro. Catch the pre-show entertainment on the plaza, followed by The Angry Birds Movie at sunset. FREE. 508-203-2100; patriot-place.com

Astronomy After Hours 8:30-10pm, Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston. On clear nights, view stars, planets, the moon and more from the observatory atop the parking garage. FREE. Fridays through November. 617-7232500; mos.org

2 Saturday Butterfly Census 10am to noon, Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, 1280 Horseneck Road, Westport. Savor the last remnants of summer, enjoy some time outdoors and learn about butterflies at the annual Allens Pond Butterfly Census. For ages 2 and up. FREE. 508-636-2437; massaudubon.org

Down on the Farm A

s fall creeps in with its wonderful crisp cool evenings and pumpkin flavored beverages, it’s time to plan the annual farm excursions. There’s nothing quite like the juicy snap of a bite into a freshly picked apple. And kids love all the extras, from petting zoos to hay bale mazes. With so many nearby options, why not change it up each year and try a new apple picking spot or corn maze? Visit BostonParentsPaper.com/ applepicking for even more listings. Berlin Orchards, 310 Sawyer Hill Road, Berlin. Hop aboard the hay wagon for a lift out to the orchard where you can choose from several varieties. Don’t leave without a visit to the farm animals and a cider doughnut snack! 978-8382400; berlinorchards.com . Honey Pot Hill Orchards, 138 Sudbury Road, Stow. Pick apples and pears in a scenic (but hilly!) orchard, then hop on a hayride or explore one of the three hedge mazes. 978562-5666; honeypothill.com. Lanni Orchards, 294 Chase Road, Lunenberg. Pick your own apples in September and October by the pound, notbag! Check the website for fun weekend events including their annual Apple Festival and Harvest Weekend. 978-582-6246; lanniorchards.com. Russell Orchards, 143 Argilla Road, Ipswich. With more than two dozen kinds of apples, this is the place to go if you like variety. A tasty bake shop, winery and lots of kids’ activities round out the options. 978-356-5366; russellorchards.com.

FARMS

17th Century Saturday 10am – 7pm, The House of the Seven Gables, 115 Derby St., Salem. Travel back in time to the 1600s with guided tours and living history labs. Adults, $14; youth, free. 978-744-0991; 7gables.org

King Richard’s Faire 10:30am – 6pm, King Richard’s Fairgrounds, 235 Main St., Carver. Entertainment, exciting rides and skilled games abound at New England’s largest Renaissance Festival. Adults, $32; youth, $16. Weekends and Monday holidays through Oct. 22. 508-866-5391; kingrichardsfaire.net

Movie Under the Stars 7:30pm, Francis William Bird Park, 251 Washington St., East Walpole. Celebrate the end of summer with an outdoor family-friendly movie. FREE. 508-668-6136; ttor.org

4 Monday, Labor Day Bread & Roses Heritage Festival 11:30am – 6pm, Campagnone Common, Lawrence. A multicultural labor and social justice arts and music festival. Family events include trolley tours, pony rides, face painting and more. FREE. breadandrosesheritage.org

5 Tuesday Peek a Blue Hike 11am, Houghton’s Pond, 840 Hillside St., Milton. Join the Friends of the Blue Hills for their bi-weekly baby and toddler hiking series. Snacks and drinks provided. FREE. 781-828-1805; friendsofthebluehills.org/peekablue

PAKEEN FARM 1 0 9

E l m

S t r e e t

–

C a n t o n ,

www.pakeenfarm.com

M A

FRESH

DONUTS CIDER

APPLES PUMPKINS & MORE!

7 Thursday Boston Charter Day 9:30am – 5pm, Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St., September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

Boston. It’s Boston’s 386th Birthday! Celebrate with free admission to the Old South Meeting House (MA residents only). 617-482-6439; osmh.org

Sticky Stuff

8 Friday

Riverfest

ntroduce the kids to a nostalgic lunchbox favorite – Marshmallow Fluff – at a festival devoted to the stuff, Somerville’s annual Fluff Festival. The ooey, gooey spread was invented in Union Square nearly 100 years ago. You’ll find kids activities, cooking and costume contests and many other diversions, but

noon to 8pm, Assembly Row, 300 Grand Union Blvd., Somerville. A culmination of a summer of activity, with live music, art, a sidewalk sale, food, children’s activities and a fireworks show. Through Sept. 10. FREE. 617-684-1511; assemblyrow.com

Friday Evening Hayride and Campfire 4pm and 6pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Welcome the beginning of fall with a hayride around the farm, followed by campfire stories, s’mores and a special night-time visitor. For families with children ages 0-14. $19.50. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

Mayor Walsh’s Movie Nights 7pm, Frog Pond, Boston Common. Catch an outdoor viewing of Honey, I Shrunk The Kids. FREE. 617-635-4505; boston.gov/parks

9 Saturday Butterfly Census 10am to noon, Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, 1280 Horseneck Road, Westport. Savor the last remnants of summer, enjoy some time outdoors and learn about butterflies at the annual Allens Pond Butterfly Census. For ages 2 and up. FREE. 508-636-2437; massaudubon.org

don’t leave without stopping by some of the local restaurants. Many will feature special dishes highlighting the star ingredient. The Fluffernutterinspired doughnut from Union Square Donuts was quite the hit last year. Fluff Festival, Sept. 23, 3-7pm, Union Square, Somerville. FREE. unionsquaremain.org/ fluff-festival.

Show and Tell Day 10am to noon, Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History, 235 Wellesley St., Weston. A day to share and explore collections of

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Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

Belmont (617) 489-1161 279 Belmont St.

Waltham (781) 891-3600 295 Weston St.

Weston Beverly (781) 642-6787 (978) 969-6679 101 River Road 600 Cummings Ctr

with vendors, performances, games, food and more. FREE. melrosechamber.org

Cambridge Carnival International Noon to 7pm, various locations, Cambridge. A colorful and festive celebration rooted in African traditions with a costume parade, international foods, crafts, kids’ activities and more. FREE. 617-8630476; cambridgecarnival.org

14 Thursday TASTE of Jamaica Plain 6-9pm, Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston. Enjoy food, music and an auction in a fundraiser for ESAC. Adults, $50; youth, free. esacboston.org

Sat., Sept 16, Hey Day at Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary

15 Friday

all types. Pick up some free stamps and start your own! Free with admission. 781-768-8367; spellman.org

10 Sunday Reading Fall Street Faire Washington Park,100 Washington St., Reading. A community festival with a children’s area, performances and classic car show. FREE. readingmarotary.org

Farm Day, BBQ & Apple Pie Contest 11am – 3pm, Verrill Farm, 11 Wheeler Road, Concord. Chow on some BBQ as you listen to bluegrass, then take a hayride or enter the apple pie contest. FREE. 978-369-4494; verrillfarm.com

Melrose Victorian Fair 11am – 4:30pm, Main Street, Melrose. A hometown festival

The Big E 8am – 10pm, Eastern States Exposition, 875 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. The largest fair in the Northeast returns with top-name entertainment, rides, animals and amazing cream puffs. Through Oct. 1. Adults, $15; youth, $10. thebige.com/fair

Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions 5pm, Cogswell’s Grant, 60 Spring St., Essex. A demonstration of the highest levels of horsemanship. Through Sept. 18. Adults, $18; youth, $15. 978-768-3632; historicnewengland.org

SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE CENTERS

PREMIER COLLEGE

Preparatory School

At The George Washington University Online High School, we offer highly personalized learning, and intensive college advising for 8th through 12th graders. With our academically challenging education, your student will be well-prepared for college.

Hurry! Fall enrollment ends September 29, 2017! Learn more at an online information session. Visit gwuohs.com/event or call 877.847.1165 for more details. September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

Open House Events

2017

More Events Online at www.BostonParentsPaper.com

TOP 5

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

JACKSON WALNUT PARK

Join us for an Open House on our Historic Newton Campus

OCTOBER 29 • 12 - 2 P.M. NOVEMBER 8 • 5:30-7:30 P.M.

www.jwpschools.org

617-202-9772 • apply@jwpschools.org

(Andover, Belmont, Framingham, Lexington & Sharon) Russian School of Mathematics Open House September 14 – 15, 2017 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm (Andover event 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm) See website for locations www.russianschool.com/our-locations

ARLINGTON International School of Boston Preschool and Kindergarten Open House October 28, 2017 @ 9:30 am – 12:00 pm 17 Irving St https://www.isbos.org

BOSTON The Newman School Open House October 15, 2017 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm 247 Marlborough St www.newmanboston.org

CAMBRIDGE

JUNTOS CONECTAMOS TOGETHER WE CONNECT

Spanish Classes for children ages 3-7 yrs.

Offered in Porter Square and Needham on Saturday mornings from 9:00-11:00am Three 8-week sessions offered during the 2017-18 school year For more information, please contact us:

EnrollmentPVP@gmail.com 617-416-7763

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Tobin Children’s sChool

International School of Boston Middle and Upper School Information Night October 12, 2017 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm Lower School Open House October 28, 2017 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm 45 Matignon Rd www.isbos.org Cambridge Friends School Open House November 4, 2017 @ 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm Middle School Open House November 7, 2017 @ 9:00 am – 11:30 am 5 Cadbury Rd www.cfsmass.org

CHESTNUT HILL Brimmer and May Fall Open House October 22, 2017 @ 1:00 pm 69 Middlesex Rd www.brimmer.org

NEWTON

LEADERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

All Newton Music School Open House September 5 & 6, 2017 @ 11:00 am (10 am Sun) – 5:30 pm 321 Chestnut St www.allnewtonmusicschool.com

TOBIN CHILDREN’S SCHOOL offers NAEYC Accredited full day, full year care for infants through PreK.

All That Jazz Dance Studio Open House September 10, 2017 @ 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm (events also 9/6-7) 330 Watertown St www.allthatjazznewton.com

• Innovative curriculum includes: Yoga, Sign Language and Spanish

WELLESLEY

71 CoTTage sTreeT • naTiCk, Ma 508.653.6300 • www.TobinChildrenssChool.org

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

Saint John School Open House October 11, 2017 @ 8:00 am – 9:30 am 9 Ledyard St. www.saintjohnschool.net Organizational Open House Events May Be Posted Online at www.BostonParentsPaper.com

7pm, Frog Pond, Boston Common. Catch an outdoor viewing of Top Gun. FREE. 617-635-4505; boston.gov/parks

BRIMM R

1880

Mayor Walsh’s Movie Nights

Open House OCTOBER 22, 2017

INSPIRED TO LEARN • ENCOURAGED TO EXPLORE • EMPOWERED TO LEAD

Lower School - 1 pm

16 Saturday

Middle/Upper Schools - 2 pm

Fall Harvest Day 9am – 4pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. It’s harvest time! Enjoy cooking demonstrations, tastings, a tour of the fields, garden activities and up-close encounters with some of the animals that love to visit the garden. For all ages. FREE. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

New England Pet Expo

Walk-in-Wedneday Parent Led Tours - 8:15 am October 25, November 8 & 15, December 6, January 10

New Innovation, STEAM & Maker Labs

10am – 5pm, Aleppo Shriner’s Auditorium, 99 Fordham Road, Boston. Learn about pet care and activism as you visit exhibitors and rescues. Bring your pet! Through Sept. 17. FREE. 800-977-3609; newenglandpetexpo.com

Hey Day 11am – 5pm, Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton. At this special event, children can enjoy a minimaze, hayrides, farm animals and pumpkin painting, as well as cider, produce and baked goods from the Princeton Farmers Market. For all ages. $10. 978-464-2712; massaudubon.org

Endless Summer Waterfront Festival Noon to 5pm, Hull Waterfront, Hull. Enjoy food, music, eating contests, bounce houses, an art show, kid’s art creation area, touch a truck and more. FREE. hullchamber.com/endless-summer

17 Sunday Boston Local Food Festival 11am – 5pm, The Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston. Learn about

SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE CENTERS

Independent | Co-Educational | Pre-K to12th Grade www.brimmer.org | Chestnut Hill, MA

An excellent education, a caring, child-centered community, and a commitment to inclusivity. Does your school do this?

OURS DOES.

OPEN HOUSE

November 4, 2017, 1:30-4 pm

www.cfsmass.org • 617.354.3880 rsvp to cfsadmission@cfsmass.org

WestWood Children’s sChool

LEADERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

WESTWOOD CHILDREN’S SCHOOL offers NAEYC Accredited full day, full year care for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. • Low student to teacher ratios 808 high street • WestWood, MA 781.329.7766 • WWW.WestWoodChildrenssChool.org September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

sustainable and local food as you snack your way around the festival. Music, chef demos and a family fun zone round out the event. FREE. bostonlocalfoodfestival.com

Wild About Turtles 1 – 2:30pm, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot Street, Natick. Visit “up close and personal” with some of the turtles found around Broadmoor. For ages 4-16. Adults, $15; youth, $9. 508-655-2296; massaudubon.org

SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE CENTERS

The Tobin School

Revels RiverSing 5-7:30pm, Winthrop Park, Cambridge. A magical night of music, song and celebration as you bid farewell to summer. Join the puppet-filled parade to the Charles River, followed by communal singing and more. FREE. 617-972-8300; revels.org

19 Tuesday Peek a Blue Hike 11am, Houghton’s Pond, 840 Hillside St., Milton. Join the Friends of the Blue Hills for their bi-weekly baby and toddler hiking series. Snacks and drinks provided. FREE. 781-828-1805; friendsofthebluehills.org/peekablue

22 Friday Apple Honey Harvest 3:30 – 5pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Visit the bees and taste delicious honey-and-apple combinations, then finish the afternoon with apple crafts. For ages 0-8. $15.50. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org.

Mayor Walsh’s Movie Nights LEADERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

THE TOBIN SCHOOL Providing NAEYC Accredited Programs: • Morning Preschool • Morning Pre-Kindergarten • Junior Kindergarten • Full-day, private Kindergarten 73 coTTage STreeT • naTick, Ma 508.655.5006 • www.TheTobinSchool.org

7pm, Frog Pond, Boston Common. Catch an outdoor viewing of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. FREE. 617-635-4505; boston.gov/parks

Lesley E

Les

Preschool - Grade 8

Fall Open Houses Sunday, November 5 1 - 3 p.m.

Join us at one of our Preschool - Grade 8 upcoming open houses! Wednesday, November 15 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Middle School (Grades 5 - 8)

Tricia Moran Director of Admission 781.641.1346 tmoran@lesleyellis.org

Outstanding academics. Lifelong learners. Critical thinkers.

34 Winter St. | Arlington, MA 02474 | 781.641.1346

EXCELLENCE WITH JOY

PreK – Grade 8

• “Atrium in Action” Tours (PreK – Grade 8) Thursday, Oct. 12, 9-10:30am • “A is for Atrium” Aquarium For young children and parents/caregivers Tuesday, Oct. 17, 9:30-11am • Open House (PreK – Grade 8) Sunday, Oct. 29, 1-3pm Visit us at atrium.org for additional information Full and Half Day PreK options

for children who turn 4 years old by Sept. 15

69 Grove Street, Watertown 02472 Please contact sdunn@atrium.org or call 617.923.4156 x125 atrium.org 28

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

www.lesleyellis.org

Little People’s Playhouse

Educating and caring for your child like their own!

15 mos. to 6 yrs. • Pre K • Kindergarten Before & After School Ages 6-12 • 7am - 6pm Part-time Preschool • 7am - 1pm ♦ Literacy based academic program focusing on the whole child ♦ Tutoring available ♦ Catered hot meals included

ONGOING ENROLLMENT

www.peopleplayhouse.net 32 South Fairview Street ♦ W. Roxbury/Roslindale Line ♦ 617-323-2566 4019 Washington Street ♦ Roslindale/Jamaica Plain ♦ 617-323-6144

34 Winte

23 Saturday Museum Day Live! Participating museums open their doors for free as part of this Smithsonian magazine event. Visit smithsonianmag.com/ museumday to see a list of museums and print your ticket.

Plum Island COASTSWEEP 9am – 5pm, Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike,

Newburyport. COASTSWEEP engages thousands of volunteers annually in cleaning the Massachusetts shoreline and riverbanks. Pick up trash from Plum Island beaches, from the north end to the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and Sandy Point State Reservation. For all ages. FREE. 978-462-9998; massaudubon.org

Fluff Festival 3-7pm, Union Square, Somerville. This annual celebration of Somerville’s homegrown marshmallow spread includes

SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE CENTERS Our mission is to create an early childhood program that fulfills the cognitive, emotional, social and physical needs of what is known to be the most significant period of human development. Friends Childcare offers an exciting, creative curriculum, as well as fun and stimulating learning activities for all age groups. Tailor-made schedule 7AM-6PM, 5 days a week. Regular in-house enrichment programs such as nature exploration, music, gross motor program, and baby massage are included in the tuition.

• Infants

(Birth to 15 Months)

• Toddlers

(15 Months to 33 Months)

• Preschool/ Pre-Kindergarten (33 Months to 5 Years)

Brookline • 617-731-1008 • 617-739-0854

Tobin School WeSTWood

LEADERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

TOBIN SCHOOL WESTWOOD offers NAEYC Accredited full day PreK and our innovative Junior Kindergarten option. • Full day, mid day and early pickup options 1054 high STreeT • WeSTWood, MA 781.329.7775 • WWW.TobinSchoolWeSTWood.org

Call or email us to schedule a tour • friendschildcare.brookline@gmail.com www.friendschildcare.net

Discover Montessori

2017 TOP 5

Discover Thacher TODDLER THOUGH 8TH GRADE

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, November 18 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Milton, MA 02186 | www.thacherschool.org

September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

ENTERTAINMENT & PARTY NEEDS

performances, shenanigans, midway games, a Fluff cooking contest Make Your Party MOVE and more. FREE. flufffestival.com with THE DANCE FORCE

24 Sunday

Games & Contests 20 –years 250,000 Kids ... 10am 4pm,...Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Prizes for AllRoad, GuestsHarvard. A 10,000,000 Smiles! juried craft show with food and music, Available plus a chance explore the for All to Occasions • Karaoke Singalongs • Dancing museum. Through Sept. 24. Adults, $10;Professional youth, free. 978-456-3924; Dance • Bubble Machine • Games • Contests • Line Dances fruitlands.org Instructors

Noon to 6pm, Harvard Avenue, Allston. A family friendly day of multicultural street performances, international foods, artists, ® vendors and more. FREE. 617-254-0632; allstonvillagestreetfair.com

Allston Village Street Fair

The Craft Festival at Fruitlands

• Disco Lights • Limbo • Live “on TV” Video • Prizes & Fun! Any event is MORE FUN with Mr. DJ!

Call (508) 588-6096 ENTERTAINMENT www.youarethestardj.com

27 Wednesday

Party at our place or yours! Norwood 781.762.2288

TotsRosalita's @ 10 Puppets

H IKE T M 29 Friday

Try Something Really Different!

• Quiet, gentle, lovable ponies; large and small available for any occasion. • Pony parties at your place or arionettes. Reservations required. FREE. brary.org. at the farm. • Customized packages at Birding, 10:30am, Boston reasonable ratesNature

www.curiouscreatures.org w

www.rosalitaspuppets.com 10am, Assembly Row, 300 Grand Union Blvd., Somerville. A free (978) 556-5353 617-633-2832 monthly program to get kids moving, thinking and creating. Today: The Bubble Music Man in Baxter Park. FREE. 617-684-1511; assemblyrow.com HE A

www.thedanceforce.com AND PARTY NEEDS

J & J Pony Rentals

Interactive r Educational Animal Shows w

Certified instructors For kids ages 8 and up Safe indoor shooting range

TMA N

Ron’s

Gourmet Ice Cream Star Gazing Nights & Bowling WEST 7:30 – 9:30pm, Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill Have your next Birthday Party at •Bumper Valentine Card Making Party, 10am, The Eric CarleJoin local astronomers for Parkway, Sharon. a look at Bowling the stars Museum, 125 West Bay Road, Amherst. Pop innight to make and other objects through big telescopes.•Parties This program Open 7 days special valentines for Norwood your family, friends or classmates. is cancelled if sky conditions are cloudy/milky or in the event of 55 Providence Hwy., 1231 Hyde Park Ave.Hyde Park music, dancing, balloon fun & more! Rosalita's Puppets $12 perdeep 781-352-0643 Registration recommended. pairsnow/extreme or trio. cold. For ages 6 and up. FREE. 781-784-5691; 617-364-5274 617-803-4636 www.rosalitaspuppets.com www.baystatearchery.com 413-658-1100; carlemuseum.org. massaudubon.org www.ronsicecream.com “On Target For Fun for 20 Years” mikethehatman.com 617-633-2832

BayState Archery Center

ill St., Mattapan. Learn to use bird hike and create some seed and ds to enjoy. Registration required. 8500; massaudubon.org.

29 Sunday

0:30am, Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Paul’s Pony of magic and surprises fromParties a Chilean Every Child’s Dream alist. Adults, $10; youth, $8. Come True! nttheatre.com. • Birthday Parties

Emoticons Face

Reptile The Enchanted Forest, 10:30am, Coolidge Corner Circus & Harvard Body Art Theatre, 290 St., Brookline. Artbarn,We a youth will Connect community theater company, presents the tale of a with Kids... Reptiles family vacation gone wrong. Adults, Featuring $13; youth, your$10. choice of 9 reptiles 617-734-2501; coolidge.org. such as water dragon, cornsnake,

• Family Days

• face painting

ter Wild Thing, 9am, Francis William • Company Outings hington St., HUNTERS Walpole. See Jan. 14 listing. HAVEN FARM

box turtle, desert king snake.

• Illusions • temporary tattoo art NORTH Schools • Birthdays • Other Events • club/festival hair and makeup • Winter AudienceFest, Participation Ward noon to 3pm, Ward Reservation, Fully Insured, Credit Cards accepted • cosplay • All Occasions • Remarkable Rateson a guided Andover. Explore the property hike, or WWW.REPTILECIRCUS.ORG www.reptilecircus.net Jim Munsey • 617-759-1517 www.EmoticonsFABA.com bring your snowshoes and sled to play. Then warm up 617-407-7533 617-407-7533 www.MunseysMagic.com with refreshments by the fire. $10 per car. 978-886-5297; 617-481-0394 ttor.org.

• School/Church FairsGet 2-6pm, World’s End, Hingham.

104 King St., Groveland, MA

g, sledding, snowshoeing, owl prowls 978-373-1300 617-759-1568 he campfire. Adults, $10; youth, free. www.paulsponyparties.com HuntersHavenFarm.com org.

Kidstock!

Creative Creativetheater theater

l, 7pm, Blue Hills Trailside Museum, DRAMA Milton. Practice owl calls Parents s and meet ent Par CLASSES m’s resident owls before going on a Children’s Musician & Instructor Children’s Musician & Instructor ice Award Cho Choice Award for ages 4-12 h for them. Registration er ner nne nn i Win Wi W er required. $10. ner nne inn Birthday Parties Win Wi W WEST Birthday Parties, Birthday Parties, audon.org. ENRICHMENT Backwards Storytime, 10am, The Discovery Museums, Schools, Concerts, Schools, Concerts, Special Events ls of the Night, 7pm, North River 177 Main St., Acton. Celebrate National Backwards Day PROGRAMS Libraries Libraries 2000 Main St., Marshfield. Join with silly stories and activities. Free with admission. Preschool & Elementary Magic, Music, Fun Preschool & Elementary ast Peter Reed as he guides you 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org. MAINSTAGE Music Specialist and Laughs Music Specialist Online Ordering$13. Available llations. Registration required. SHOWS audubon.org. Call 617-822-2292 Host your next party offor Participation & Fun for All! Lots of Participation Lots & Fun All! BIRTHDAY in our new • www.franfriedman.com 508-358-1614 • www.franfriedman.com Petermagicomalley.com 508-358-1614 PARTIES Decorating Kitchen

als

nies; for

e or

KIDSTOCK!

Friedman Celebrate Fran Friedman Fran Peter is Peter r O’Malley O’Malley O is Magic! Magic! 31 Tuesday everything 2017 at

ENTERTAINMENT & PARTY NEEDS

Celebrate Simply p y Silly y Events Fran Friedman Parents www.sillysall ysa allys.c lys.com www.sillysallys.com Children’s Musician ard everything in Choice Aw t’s & Instructor e s ’ L t s ’ e r e ner nne nn i t Win Wi W L ! 2017 at• Puppets • Bubble Le Shows Birthday Magic rtyParties, ty! !

Pa arrty P

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“Come Bounce Off Our Walls” Schools, Concerts, 100% Private Indoor Inflatable Fun Balloon Designs • Decor Libraries • 100% Private Birthday Parties Reserve Your Event Now! • Open Bounce & Family Fun Preschool & Elementary Theme Peabody, MA Online OrderingParties Available • Catering • Glow Parties & Tween Nights • Field Trip Programs 5 B Webster St. Peabody Music Specialist 978-532-5868 • Birthday Parties & Special Events Face Painting • Glow & Rock Star Parties 978-532-JUMP(5867) • Pop-In Playtime & Field Trips BostonBounceParty.com Host your next party 2017 www.kidstocktheater.com TOP 10 www.pumpitupparty.com • Sports Teams & Scout Troops Lots of Participation & Fun for All! in our new 781-729-5.KID Book Your Party Today! Call 617-639-5657 508-358-1614 • www.franfriedman.com Decorating Kitchen TM

2017

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30 2016 Boston Parents Paper WINNER

FIND MORE ENTERTAINERS Original & classic stories Children 6+, 10-14 guests. Lots of fun options! i ! ONLINE AT: Props, puppets, & surprises A trained chef will help you decorate a cake, cupcakes,

Events

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| September 2017

NEW! Host your next party in our state-of-the-art kitchen.

the Storyteller Cakes, cookies, candies, gift baskets & all your party needs!

and also decorateSchools and dip strawberries.You and your Birthday Parties guests getSpecial to take home everything that you make! Libraries Events

BostonParentsPaper.com/ 1356 Beacon St, Brookline • 617-566-3330 entertainers 617-713-4349 www.partyfavorsbrookline.com October 2013 | BostonParentsPaper.com

points to benchmark skills to be aware of that kids need to acquire from the earliest grades, such as knowing how to organize binders, writing down homework 30 Saturday assignments and checking book bags and planners, to National Lands Day they need. She also says make surePublic they have everything Entrance fees are waived today at National Parks, Forests and it’s a good sign when kids have the impetus to ask a friend Wildlife Refuges nationwide in honor of National Public Lands Day. or gonps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm to the teacher if they aren’t sure or have a question. FREE. Often during the school year your children might American Music and Harvest Festival spend more time with their class than they do with you, 9am – 7pm, Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm, 5 Little’s Lane, Newbury. so it’svintage essential they learn be proactive. think one Enjoy baseball, farm to activities and four“Icenturies of American music. $20. 978-462-2634; historicnewengland.org mistake parents make, especially in the younger grades, is assuming child is either too young or not able Boston Kidstheir Really Rock to advocate for themselves,” says Dean. SheAn sees a lotfamily of 11am – 6pm, The Lawn on D, 420 D St., Boston. all-day music and artsparents festival with nationally-acclaimed bands (Josh & the emails from trying to smooth out problems their Jamtones, Mister in G and more), andwould dancing. FREE. kids are having class. As ahands-on teacher, art Dean rather kidsreallyrock.com parents encourage her students to work out the problem Berklee Beantown Jazzavailable Festivalresources or speaking for themselves by using Noon South End, Boston.they A block party of jazz, Latin, blues, to hertoto6pm, get the information require. Says Dean, “A lot of times when I look at my classrooms, the kids that are successful are more well equipped at navigating the school, the class, their friends – problem-solving through things so they don’t take away from doing their work.” In addition to self-advocating and having a strong organizational system, Selwyn says the better students tend to enjoy reading. “The more they put their hands on books, the better off they are. But that’s not the whole picture,” she adds. “The good student would be the well-rounded student. They like to do other kinds of things so it gives the child the opportunity to develop and to see what they really like.”

Celebrating Success Raising a child with the skills to be successful in school isn’t something that happens by accident or overnight. It requires a thoughtful approach, consistent support and a concerted effort by the parent, school and most importantly the student. And when success is attained, whether it manifests itself in improved grades, increased sense of responsibility or anything else that makes you, as a parent, proud, cheer them on as you would if they DAN C Ejust scored the winning touchdown or STUDIO nailed a solo at the choir recital. Says Dean, “Success inCome school should get equal weight not more Discover the ifJoy of than Dancing! anything else they might do. I’m START all for celebrating CLASSES AT AGE 2 AND ARE OFFERED effort, improvement and growth. ” ■ 7 DAYS A WEEK

JAZZ

all that

Register Now for Fall Open Houses: Sept. 6, 6-7:30 Brian Spero is a frequent contributor to Boston Parents Paper.pm, Sept. 7, 4:30-6 pm and Sept. 10, 1-2:30 pm

*Free demo class on 9/10 from 1:30-2:00 for pre-ballet (ages 3-6) and hip hop/jazz (ages 7-12)

FALL/WINTER EVENT: Sept 15th - 20th, 2015 Children’s Drop & Shop

• Speech & Language • Reading/Spelling/Writing Tea groove • Marmotperformances, • Patagonia Conducted at food yourvendors home funk and along•with an array of Brooks Brothers • Mini Boden • Preschool - 12th grade and activities kids. •FREE. 617-747-2218; beantownjazz.org Crewcuts •for LL Bean Strollers Snow Suits • Pants & Boots • Toys Furniture • Clothing

617–448–6290 BostonSLP.com CLASSES AND ENRICHMENT

childrensdropandshop.com

The Highest Results – Year After Year

First School of Mathematics CONGRATULATIONS

to our graduates goinggoing to Harvard, Cornell, to our2016/17 2014/15 graduates to Harvard, Brown, Columbia, UPenn, Yale andand MIT MIT Cornell, Brown, Stanford, Columbia, Stanford

Enroll School Year Enroll for Enr Enro for 2017-2018 2015-2016 School Year Math classes: classes: 1-12, SAT-I, SAT-11, SAT-II, Calculus Math M Calculus Tutoring:Math, Math, Englishin, English, Physics, Tu Tut ut Tutoring: Physics,Chemistry Chemistry

Last year’s SAT results: SAT-I(Math) (Math) - 775 (average) SAT-1 (average) SAT-11 795 (average) (average) SAT-II(Math) (Math) -- 795

617-566-8744

www.firstschoolofmath.com

1622A Beacon St. Suite 304, Brookline, MA 02446

Tobin AfTerschool

LEADERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

TOBIN AFTERSCHOOL offers a warm, enriching environment for after school, during school vacations, professional days, snow days and early release days. 73 coTTAge sTreeT • nATick, MA

obin W A T508.650.1561 E R W •Owww R.TK SAfTerschool M U S.orgE U M

Interested in Science? Engineering? Architecture? Plan a visit to the Waterworks Museum and learn about the technology and innovation behind one of the country’s first metropolitan water systems. FAMILY DAY ~ SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 Hands-on Engineering Activities! Science Demonstrations! Water Fun! FREE ADMISSION www.WaterworksMuseum.org 2450 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02467 ~ 617-277-0065 Hours ~ Wed: 11am-9pm; Thur-Sun: 11am-4pm September 2015 | BostonParentsPaper.com

September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

• Ballet • Contemporary • Hip Hop • Jazz • Tap • Pre-Ballet • Pointe • Fairy Princess Dance • Street Jazz • Lyrical • Musical Theater Triple Threat • And lots more! TM

2017 TOP 5

2016

2017

330 Watertown St., Newton • 617-641-0784 www.AllThatJazzNewton.com

CLASSES AND ENRICHMENT HOT TIP

Newton

Natick

Mo Movies

FITNESS & GYMNASTICS

Fit Families – Healthy Communities

Be one of the first to see the new film adaptations of two Mo Willems’ books: The Duckling Gets a Cookie and Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs at the Aug. 30 event at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. In addition to the movies, you’ll have a chance to Rolling admission meet Mo and his lovable characters, Elephant and Piggie. Round High Quality Non-Competitive Gymnastics Training for All Ages out your visit with special storytimes and art projects. Beginner-advanced classes - Intensive & Xcel Team programs - Adaptive programs - Birthdays - Open workouts - PTO fundraisers

Now g rin registe for

COURTESY PHOTO

Fall Enrollment

Willems is known for his slightly goofy, whimsical characters.

2017 TOP 5

After16 School Program Sunday projects, face painting, a visit from the Franklin Park Zoo, Day, 4-8pm, Hatch Shell, 1 David G Mugar Way, AdultIndia & Parent Classes and much more. FREE. cityofboston.gov/parks. Boston. A showcase of the unique ethnic and cultural Teens & Kids Classes diversity of India with food, booths and performances. FREE. Ninjaiagb.org. Camp Inspiring Olympic Dreams 19 Wednesday (Summer-time & vacation)

Sign up today and receive 30% off any weekday Tots class www.energyfitnessgym.com 617-795-7177 WEST BLO’s Free Summer Concert, 7pm, Hatch Shell, With Their Own Eyes: Every Child a Poet, 3pm, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston. Boston Landmarks The Old Manse, 269 Monument St., Concord. Explore Orchestra performs free concerts on Wednesday nights. the landscape together, then children will learn how Brookline (Cleveland Today: Drums Along the Charles. FREE.Cambridge, 617-987-2000; to translate their experience into a poem. Adults, free; Circle & Larz Anderson), landmarksorchestra.org. LEARN TO SKATE CLASSES for ages 8-12, $25. 978-369-3909; thetrustees.org. Medford, Newton-Brighton, Recreational • Figure • Hockey WEST Quincy, Somerville, Skating Skills Building with Nature, 11am – 2pm, Discovery Waltham, Museums, As 177 Main St., Acton. What can you build with just some featured on West Roxbury, Weymouth 49 Years “Chronicle” twine and things you find in the woods? Drop in. Free with Children’s Summer Festival, 10am – 1pm, Franklin Park, Experience Children years) admission. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org. Dorchester. Performing arts, science-related activities, art (41/2 –18

Bay State Skating School

18 Tuesday

781-890-8480 • www.BayStateSkatingSchool.org ENTERTAINMENT & PARTY CLASSES & ENRICHMENT

GET THE BEST REPORT CARD YET!

FIND MORE GET AHEAD IN MATH & READING. ENTERTAINERS Join us as we play math games, read books and apply our studies to our daily lives. ONLINE AT: TM

Call in today to reserve a slot!

32 South Fairview St., Roslindale, MA

BostonParentsPaper.com/ 617-323-2566 entertainers

Rosalita's Puppets

2016

www.rosalitaspuppets.com TOP 5 617-633-2832 SPACE AVAILABLE

Paulette’s

J & J Pony Rentals

• Quiet, gentle, lovable ponies; large and small available for any occasion. • Pony parties at your place or at the farm. • Customized packages at Classes for students reasonable rates

Ballet Studio • Ballet • Jazz • Tap • Pointe

3 years old to adult.... • Hip-Hop • Baby Ballerinas • Modern • Adult Classes • Mom & Me • Lyrical • Pre-Ballet • Fitness

REGISTRATION & OPEN HOUSE Newton: Wednesday & Thursday 2016 2017 TOP 5 TOP 5 September 6th & 7th • 3-6PM PaulettesBalletStudio.com Medfield: Tuesday, September 5th • 3-6PM Call for a tour and to register for fall classes: TM

Newton Studio HUNTERS HAVEN FARM

Medfield Studio

190 Oak St., Newton

93 West St. Building I, Medfield

617-527-9565

508-359-5192

104 King St., Groveland, MA

978-373-1300

www.PaulettesBalletStudio.com HuntersHavenFarm.com 32

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

The Math Club

REGISTER NOW FOR FALL Inspiring preparation for the Mathematical Olympiad Contest and Applied Mathematics Challenge - 2018 for elementary and middle school students.

21 year program with high success rate • Fun and supportive learning environment • Builds strong math foundation • Critical thinking techniques

2017 TOP 5

781-860-9012 • www.TheMathClub.com

Enrolling FallNow semester starts September 10

Fall classes begin September 11 Sign upby before September 2 and Enroll Aug. 30 and waive waive the $25. registration fee the $25 registration fee.

★Pre Ballet, Ballet & Pointe Ages 3 –Teens & Adults

Nina Rubinstein Alonso, Director

1798 Mass. Ave., Cambridge (617) 491-5865

See our photos on Facebook

WWW.FRESHPONDBALLET.COM August 2015 | BostonParentsPaper.com

CLASSES AND ENRICHMENT

HOLIDAY CLASSIC RETURNS TO BOSTON!

FALL ART CLASSES, GR K-12

Drawing, painting, woodworking, ceramics, & more! Plus, Columbus and Veteran’s Day Programs!

FAMILY DROP-IN DAY 9/23: Join us for hands-on activities inspired by our exhibitions

“Bring the kids for a dose Private Lessons • Group Classes • Ensembles • Concerts

TIME FOR PARTNERS ENRICHING ART & MUSIC CLASSES

of holiday cheer!” THE BOSTON GLOBE

DECEMBER 14-17

Ages 18 months to 4 years with an adult. Kids and adults learn, explore and make new friends. Fall classes 9/18 – 1/22 (15 weeks) Choose Monday - Friday, 9:30am – 11:15am Newton Cultural Center at City Hall

“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” animated television special adapted from a story by Robert L. May and the song by Johnny Marks, music and lyrics by Johnny Marks. All elements © and ™ under license to Character Arts, LLC.

www.newartcenter.org 617.964.3424

We bring the instrument and the instructor. Private in-home lessons available Contact Molly Howard at 617-999-8794 pianoplaytime@yahoo.com www.pianoplaytime.com

BUY TICKETS AT BOCHCENTER.ORG

BOCH CENTER BOX OFFICE 866.348.9738

GROUPS OF 10+ CALL 617.532.1116 Boch Center is a trademark of The Wang Center for the Performing Arts, Inc.

September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

✼ Single Minded

In Sickness and in Health By Susan Solomon Yem

tion of the impacted gland. My surgery was on Valentine’s Day that year. While the parathyroid lives close to the thyroid, it is actually unrelated. However, during the operation, my doctor biopsied some growths he had previously observed in my thyroid and discovered that I had cancer. Thyroid cancer moves slowly, and my doctor promised me my particular type would not kill me. Six months after the first operation, I had another to remove my thyroid and almost all of my parathyroid (the disease had not corrected itself with the first surgery). I shared very few details with my children. I did not want them to worry. My daughter, who thrives on drama, did get a little carried away in her concern for me though. I was fortunate that the cancer I had did not require radiation or chemotherapy. Life could return to normal quickly for us. But these surgeries — and one more unrelated one I had during the prior year — revealed to my family that Mom was vulnerable, and this mom does not like being vulnerable.

Don’t Get Sick

Taking Care of Mom

We are a reasonably healthy family. During their growing-up years, other than annual checkups, our visits to the doctor were pretty rare. There were occasional trips to the emergency room for stitches, sprained ankles and twisted wrists. Jake got a concussion playing lacrosse that kept him in a dark, stimulus-free room for seven days. Aside from my annual visits to the gynecologist, my medical (and dental – oops) care was minimal. And those annual visits may not have been so annual. Every few years I would schedule a physical but, more often than not, cancel it or give the appointment to one of the children. A colleague chastised me for this lack of self-care. I don’t like getting scolded, so I finally kept one of those appointments. I remember exactly where I was when the nurse called with my test results — in rush-hour traffic. She told me I had a lot of calcium in my blood. I thought that was a good thing. Shouldn’t we all have a lot of calcium? Not in our blood. It was an indication of parathyroid disease. I had never heard of parathyroid disease, so I asked Jake, who was riding along with me, to look it up on his phone as I continued to drive.

The child who knows this best is Jake, my youngest. Before we moved to San Francisco, Jake took annual trips from Boston to the Bay area to visit his oldest brother. They share a summer birthday. The year he turned 14, I dropped him at the airport and went home to do a thorough housecleaning. Unfortunately, two hours in, I slipped on the wet bathroom floor, dislocating my knee and hitting my head on the side of the bathtub. I ended up in the emergency room, where I got 12 stitches and a new pair of crutches. Jake felt terrible that he was not there to help me. He is here now, and the only one of the kids I have told about my new diagnosis. While we don’t talk about it much, and he does not appear to be overly concerned, almost every day he shares a link to information he has found about my condition. And he makes sure I take care of myself. I worry that I am burdening my youngest because he is the one who is geographically closest; but I should overcome my reluctance to tell the others. Just as I was their primary caregiver when they were children, they are now mine.

was recently diagnosed with a condition that has a significant impact on me. It is not life-threatening, but it is annoying to have to pay such close attention to my health. This is the latest in a series of concerns that reminds me that it’s tough to get sick when you’re a single parent. Several years ago, there was a particularly virulent strain of flu infecting scores of people, including my son Paul. He missed a week of school as he suffered through aches, chills and fever. One morning as I was heading out the door to take his siblings to school, Paul came down the stairs speaking gibberish. He had become dehydrated and was hallucinating. It was pretty frightening. I didn’t want the younger kids to be late, but I also did not want to leave Paul alone. Fortunately, my neighbor was still home and came in to watch Paul while I drove the others two miles down the road to school. I was very happy that I did not succumb to the flu that season. In fact, I remember telling myself, “I cannot get sick.”

Once Is Not Enough Parathyroid disease is resolved by removing a por-

Boston Parents Paper | September 2017

Susan Solomon Yem is singleminded about raising her five children to adulthood. She’d like to hear your stories about single parenting. Contact her at susansyem@gmail. com

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September 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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