SEPTEMBER 2022 SchoolSchoolBack-to-Back-to10 Easy Ways to Help the New Kid in HomeworkSchool Help 15 Tips to Support Your TakingChildthe Stress Out of Back-toSchool DayReduceMorningsFirstJitters Looking for Something Fun to Do? Our Family Events CALENDAR IS BACK! 8 TEENSFORTRADITIONSFALLFAMILIESTELLINGMYABOUT THE “OLD DAYS”
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September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 5 TM September 2022Volume 38 • Number 1 Contents Boston Parent 841 Worcester Street Suite 344 Natick, MA 01760 • 617-522-1515 info@BostonParentsPaper.com Visit us online BostonParentsPaper.comat PUBLISHER Parenting Media, Inc ART DIRECTOR | Debbi Murzyn ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Jean Abernathy 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. Copies of Boston Parents Paper are distributed to locations throughout Greater Boston and Eastern Massachusetts. 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 Family FYI ................................. 6 • Check out our Family Favorite Awards Online • Best State for Families • Pedestrian Safety 8 Fall Traditions for Families ...... 10 Traditions Create Closeness Telling My Teens About the “Old Days” ................................... 12 Did they have paper plates when you were Productlittle?Roundup ........................ 14 Back-to-School Things We Love Family Calendar .......................... 26 Fun Things to Do in September The Art of the Lunchbox Note ..... 34 Back-to-School Homework Help 15 Ways to Support Your Child Taking the Stress Out of Back-to-School Mornings Create a smoother school morning. 261210 WHAT’S INSIDE Reduce First Day Jitters 8 Tips for reducing first day of school stress for your children. 10 Easy Ways to Help the New Kid in School Teach your kids to look for the new kids, not past them. 2016 2422
Teens and Texts It’s not easy to pry your teen’s cell phone out of their hot little hands, but you may want to implement a no texting after dark rule. A study published in the Journal of Child Neurology showed that teens who continued to text after their presumed bedtime when lights were out slept fewer hours, making school more of a struggle the next day (no surprise there). Interestingly, students who turned off their phones or stopped texting within 30 minutes after the lights went out performed “significantly better in school” than others who did not.
6 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022 Family
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Our annual Family Favorites issue is available online and covers more than 100 different categories, including places to shop and dine, fam ily fun, attractions, school and enrich ment programs and health Availableprofessionals.onlineat comBostonParentsPaper.
Best States for Families We all know living in our great state is pretty awesome! A recent study by WalletHub just confirmed it. WalletHub compared the 50 states across 51 key indicators of family-friendliness measuring data set ranges from medium family salary to housing affordability to unemployment rates. It is no surprise that Massachusetts came in at the top as the best state for families, again. Rounding off the top 5 are New York, Vermont, Minnesota and Nebraska. To see all the results, go to www.wallethub.com.
LABOR DAY, September 5th this year, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. Unofficially, this day marks a few milestones, end of summer for children going back to school, the beginning of football season and the end of wearing white for the society ladies. Well, it used to. Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894, and society eventually adopted it as the natural endpoint for summer fashion.
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 7 9th annual 40,000 FREE BOOKS AND ACTIVITIES FOR BOSTON PUBLIC SCHOOL FAMILIES! Stop by between 1:00 and 4:00 PM on Saturday, September 24th, 2022 Boston Teachers Union & Carson Beach 180 Mt. Vernon St., Boston, MA 02125 (Entrance is off of Day Boulevard, before Carson Beach) BTUBOSTONUNIONTEACHERS SAVE THE BTU.ORG/BACKTOSCHOOLSEPTEMBERDATE!24stWE NEED VOLUNTEERS TO HELP US SORT BOOKS ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 FROM 3-7 PM, TUESDAY and WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 & 21, 9-7 PM. CANYOU HELP OUT? CLICKTHE LINK:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf0Hw-NtYaTN2F_xPUe_7YUBpPXKx0LTIYSYg3LYPnNTmpZOA/viewform?usp=sf_link ALL ARE WELCOME TO PITCH IN, INCLUDING STUDENTS FULFILLING COMMUNITY SERVICE. Please contact Katina at kmcclain@btu.org or Brenda at bchaney@btu.org if you can volunteer any day! CLOSEST MBTA ONJFK/UMASST-STOPTHEREDLINE
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With yourdogpark,school,toeducated.theirteenagersEnglandapproaching,back-to-schoolNewchildrenandwillbemakingdailycommutetogetWhetherwalkingafriend’shouseaftergoingtothelocalortakingthefamilyforastroll—itislikelychildwillneedto
8 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022 Family F.Y.I. Pedestrian Safety STOP! LOOK LEFT, RIGHT, AND LEFT AGAIN
utilize pedestrian safety tips. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, unintentional pedestrian injuries are the fifth leading cause of injury-related deaths in the United States for children ages 5 to 19. It is important not to overestimate your child’s understanding of safe pedestrian habits, especially teenagers. Teenagers account for more than half of all child pedestrian deaths. Shared pedestrian standards can help reduce injuries and deaths; therefore, it is important to educate your children on the rules of the road: both as a pedestrian and as a driver. No matter their age, it is never too late to ensure your children are safe. Here are some fundamental tips to get started on you and your child’s repertoire of pedestrian safety knowledge.
TIP 1Use sidewalks when available. Sidewalks are the safest place to be on foot, as it is an expected area for drivers to see pedestrians walking. If no sidewalks are available, walk facing traffic and stay as far away from the road as possible. Be especially careful and alert when walking around blind corners.
TIP 2 Remain visible always. At night, it is difficult for drivers to see pedestrians on or near the road from a distance. Wear light clothing colors, carry a flashlight, and wear reflective fabrics if possible. If you know you will be walking in the dark, be prepared by bringing a flashlight. Approximately 75% of teenage pedestrian deaths occur between 7 pm – 7 am.
TIP 3 Cross the street using signals and crosswalks. It is important to build the habit of constantly crossing the street at spots with traffic signals and/or at a crosswalk. Before crossing, make eye contact with the driver to ensure they see you. Always look left, right, and left again before crossing to ensure both cars on either side of the crosswalk acknowledge you. Do this as well despite the “walk” traffic signal, as drivers can run a red light or take a right turn on red. Practice safe crossing with your children, as kids can often underestimate the speed and distance of a traveling car. ✷
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 9 177 Main Street, discoveryacton.orgActon978-264-4200 Come celebrate 40 years of Discovery! Community Day ! Free Saturday, September 10 9:00am - 4:30pm Free admission all day as our “Thank You” to the community as we celebrate our 40th Reservationsanniversary!Required Interactive exhibits for all ages! Open 7 days a week Admission by 617-426-1812usscm.orgdonation
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8
forTraditionsFamiliesF
By Sarah Lyons Fun Fall
all means cooler temperatures, changing and falling leaves, and many fun activities to enjoy. Traditions create closeness in a family and make memories that last a lifetime. Fall is a perfect time to start some new traditions that your family will look forward to each year. Try some of these ideas.
10 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
Pumpkins are a symbol of fall. You can easily incorporate them into your family’s fall traditions. Take the kids to the pumpkin patch and pick the perfect one as a family. While you carve it, try different pumpkin recipes like pumpkin bars, pumpkin bread, or roasted pumpkin seeds. Have each family member choose a small pumpkin or gourd and paint silly faces on them for another fun idea.
As the leaves begin to change, take a scenic drive. Stop and get ice cream along the way or take a pit stop at a local playground to break up the drive. You may also have a lot of leaves in your yard to clean up. Have the kids help rake them into a big pile and jump in. Don’t forget to snap some photos that are certain to be in the running for the family holiday card.
Apple Picking
Family traditions are easy to start and so worthwhile to continue. As your children grow, they may not remem ber everything you hope they will, but the traditions that you return to, year after year, will create lasting memories that they will treasure for years to come. ✷ Sarah Lyons is a wife and mother of six children, including triplets. She enjoys taking the kids to the pumpkin patch and the apple orchard each year.
Comfort Food Everyone enjoys comfort food. Get the kids involved in cook ing so they can learn to make your family’s favorite foods. It is also a good time to come up with some new recipes to enjoy in the years to come. While you are cooking, talk to them about the importance of family traditions.
Something Spooky
Pumpkins
Planting
Campfire
As the nights get colder, find time to sit around the campfire as a family, either in the backyard or at a local park. Start a fun tradition as you roast hot dogs, make S’mores, and tell ghost stories.
Fall is the perfect time to plant bulbs and trees. Use the opportunity to teach your kids about gardening. Let them help pick out items and plant them in your yard. If you plant a tree, start a tradition of taking a family photo in front of it each year. Over time it will be fun to compare the tree’s growth, as well as your family.
As fall approaches, the apples are ready to be harvested. Head to a nearby orchard as a family to pick apples and have a picnic. If available, pick up some apple cider and try some cider donuts. Back at home, try making home made applesauce, apple pies, or apple pancakes. Don’t forget to add some fresh picked apples to the lunch boxes.
Leaves
For the older kids, try braving a haunted house together. Nothing says fam ily bonding more than exploring a haunted house and experiencing thrills around every corner. Not ready for something so scary? Let the kids test their navigation skills as you work your way through a corn maze.
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 11
Football Many families enjoy sports and football is a favorite fall pastime. Attend a high school, college, or professional game as a family. Try tailgating before the game and have fun cheering on your team together. It is also just as fun to root for your team from the comfort of your own living room. Prepare some delicious snacks and watch the game together.
Telling Aboutthe
During most of my childhood, the phone was attached to the wall by a cord. If I wanted to know the weather or what time it was, I had to make a phone call. I also called the movie theater and listened to a recording of movie showtimes. Speaking of the movies, there were no movie theaters with stadium seating. If someone sat directly in front of me, then I got a view of half the screen and the back of someone’s head. My generation also endured the New Coke fiasco. New Coke replaced the original formula. But no one liked New Coke and we went back to old Coke. It was a confusing time. The internet did not exist. If I had a question, I had to ask some one, use an encyclopedia, or visit theTexting,library.Snapchat, and TikTok didn’t exist either. If I wanted to reach people, I wrote them a letter, passed them a note in school, or called them on the phone. When I liked a song on the ra dio, I had three choices to listen to it again: tape it off the radio with a tape recorder; buy the cassette at the mall without listening to any of the other songs; or buy the single as a 45 and listen to it on my record player. “What’s a 45 or a cassette?” my teen“JustSigh.asked.Google it,” I told him. “But we did have paper plates, kid!” I said with passion. “Don’t you ever forget it.” ✷ Katy M. Clark is a writer and mom of two who celebrates her imperfections on her blog Experienced Bad Mom.
By Katy M. Clark
“Mom, did they have paper plates when you were little?” I looked at my teen who had just asked this question. He had to be joking, right? But he stared at me with all seriousness. My teenager thought we didn’t have paper plates when I was little? Yikes!“Believe it or not, we did,” I replied. Seeing that his history class wasn’t teaching him anything about the reality of life in the 20th century, I took it upon myself to educate him about the past. “But there are a lot of things you take for granted that were different when I was growing up,” I told him. And then I shared the 12 following facts about life in the olden days— otherwise known as the 80s:
12 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
We had to lick the back of stamps before we stuck them on an enve lope. There were no self-adhesive stamps for us. We had to carry our luggage onto the plane. In fact, that’s why those small pieces of luggage are called carry-ons. They didn’t have wheels or retractable handles. People didn’t get cash when they won on Wheel of Fortune. They had to use their winnings to go shopping for things like a sofa and a ceramic dog
Wrappingsculpture.paper didn’t have lines printed on the inside. We had to wing it and hope that we could cut straight.Wefound our way to new places by using a map. No, not Google Maps. A folded paper version that you bought at a gas station and kept in the glove box.
“Old Days” WHEN I WAS A KID
My Teens
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WATERWORKS MUSEUM Interested
■ Brian
to
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 just scored the winning touchdown or nailed a solo at the choir recital. Says Dean, “Success in school should get equal weight if not more than anything else they might do. I’m all for celebrating effort, improvement and growth.”
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.”
It can be difficult to accurately and objectively assess how your children are developing as students. Selwyn 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 assignments and checking book bags and planners, to make sure they have everything they need. She also says it’s a good sign when kids have the impetus to ask a friend or go to the teacher if they aren’t sure or have a question.
The earlier you start with math the smoother is your path to success! For 20 Years, The Highest Results, Year After Year Math classes: 1-12, SAT, Calculus Tutoring:1622AMathBeacon St. Stuite 304 Brookline, MA 02446 Enroll for 2022-2023 School Year Online and in person 617-566-8744classes www.firstschoolofmath.com
Often during the school year your children might spend more time with their class than they do with you, so it’s essential they learn to be proactive. “I think one mistake parents make, especially in the younger grades, is assuming their child is either too young or not able to advocate for themselves,” says Dean. She sees a lot of emails from parents trying to smooth out problems their kids are having in class. As a teacher, Dean would rather parents encourage her students to work out the problem for themselves by using available resources or speaking to her to get the information they require.
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.”
■
September 2015 | BostonParentsPaper.com 19
W A T E R
Plan
Attributes of a Successful Student
Science Demonstrations!
Brian Spero is a frequent contributor
Celebrating Success
FREE www.WaterworksMuseum.orgADMISSION 2450
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to Boston Parents Paper Comprehensive Evaluations • Speech & Language • Reading/Spelling/Writing • Conducted at your home • Preschool - 12th grade 617–448–6290 BostonSLP.com Best Brands On Consignment Consignors welcome! FALL/WINTER EVENT: Sept 15th - 20th, 2015 Children’s Drop & Shop Tea • Marmot • Patagonia Brooks Brothers • Mini Boden Crewcuts • LL Bean • Strollers Snow Suits • Pants & Boots • Toys Furniture • Clothing childrensdropandshop.com The Highest Results – Year After Year First School of Mathematics Enroll for 2015-2016 School Year Math classes: 1-12, SAT-I, SAT-11, Calculus Tutoring: Math, Englishin, Physics, Chemistry Last year’s SAT results: SAT-1 (Math) - 775 (average) SAT-11 (Math) - 795 (average) www.fi617-566-8744rstschoolofmath.com 1622A Beacon St. Suite 304, Brookline, MA
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 just scored the winning touchdown or nailed a solo at the choir recital. Says Dean, “Success in school should get equal weight if not more than anything else they might do. I’m all for celebrating effort, improvement and growth.” Spero is a frequent contributor 02446
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.”
FAMILY
Hands-on
to Boston Parents Paper Comprehensive Evaluations • Speech & Language • Reading/Spelling/Writing • Conducted at your home • Preschool - 12th grade 617–448–6290 BostonSLP.com Best Brands On Consignment Consignors welcome! FALL/WINTER EVENT: Sept 15th - 20th, 2015 Children’s Drop & Shop Tea • Marmot • Patagonia Brooks Brothers • Mini Boden Crewcuts • LL Bean • Strollers Snow Suits • Pants & Boots • Toys Furniture • Clothing childrensdropandshop.com The Highest Results – Year After Year First School of Mathematics Enroll for 2015-2016 School Year Math classes: 1-12, SAT-I, SAT-11, Calculus Tutoring: Math, Englishin, Physics, Chemistry Last year’s SAT results: SAT-1 (Math) - 775 (average) SAT-11 (Math) - 795 (average) www.fi617-566-8744rstschoolofmath.com 1622A Beacon St. Suite 304, Brookline, MA 02446 EnrEnro TuutM CONGRATULATIONS to our 2014/15 graduates going to Harvard, Cornell, Brown, Columbia, Stanford and MIT WATERWORKS MUSEUM 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 www.WaterworksMuseum.orgADMISSION 2450 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02467 ~ 617-277-0065 Hours ~ Wed: 11am-9pm; Thur-Sun: 11am-4pm W A T E R
CONGRATULATIONSEnroour 2014/15 graduates going to Harvard, Cornell, Brown, Columbia, Stanford and MIT in Science? Engineering? Architecture? a visit to the Waterworks Museum and learn about the technology and innovation behind one of the country’s first metropolitan water systems. DAY ~ SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 Engineering Activities! Water Fun! Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02467 ~ 617-277-0065 Hours ~ Wed: 11am-9pm; Thur-Sun: 11am-4pm
Often during the school year your children might spend more time with their class than they do with you, so it’s essential they learn to be proactive. “I think one mistake parents make, especially in the younger grades, is assuming their child is either too young or not able to advocate for themselves,” says Dean. She sees a lot of emails from parents trying to smooth out problems their kids are having in class. As a teacher, Dean would rather parents encourage her students to work out the problem for themselves by using available resources or speaking to her to get the information they require.
It can be difficult to accurately and objectively assess how your children are developing as students. Selwyn 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 assignments and checking book bags and planners, to make sure they have everything they need. She also says it’s a good sign when kids have the impetus to ask a friend or go to the teacher if they aren’t sure or have a question.
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.”
Celebrating Success
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14 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022 Product Roundup
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September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 15
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et’s be honest – sometimes parents dread homework as much as their kids do. But homework connects parents to what their children are learning in school, and research shows that children are more likely to be successful in school when their families support them. By following these tips, even the most homework-challenged parents can help their children have a successful homework year.
L
16 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
By Janeen Lewis
Homework Help 15 Ways to YourSupportChild
3. Learn what the homework rules are. At Open House learn the homework policy of the school and your child’s teacher. What are the consequences for lost or forgotten homework? Don’t be quick to bail your child out every time you get a frantic text message about forgotten homework. One of the purposes of homework is to teach responsibility.
5. Schedule a consistent time. With sports, service projects, religious and community activities, it can be hard to schedule one set time every day to do homework. Aim for as much consistency as possible when scheduling homework around afterschool activities.
4. Get organized. Your child should have a backpack and homework folder to carry assignments between home and school. Teachers of primary students usually send homework correspondence each night. If your older child’s teacher doesn’t require students to record school work in an assignment book, provide one yourself and teach your child how to fill it out. If you are unsure what a reasonable amount of homework is, The National Education Association and The National Parent Teacher Association recommend 10-20 minutes of homework per night in the first grade, and an additional 10 minutes per grade after that.
6. Designate a study space. Pick a homework space free from distractions. However, consider your child’s personality and ability to focus when selecting a homework station. Some children concentrate best in complete quiet at the kitchen table or a desk. Others study well on their bed with background music. And reading areas can be creative like a reading tent or comfy bean bag. Make study areas free from video games, television and the games of other siblings who finish homework early
7. Create a supply caddy. Fill a plastic caddy or bin organizer with items your child might need for homework. Some good supplies are pencils, markers, crayons, glue, tape, stapler, threehole punch, paper clips, notebook paper, small wipe-off board with dry erase markers, art paper, graph paper, calculator, protractor, compass, ruler and a dictionary/ thesaurus combo. Also provide a wipe-off calendar for important due dates. Continued next page >>> Make study areas free from video games, television and the games of other siblings who finish homework early.
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 17
1. Understand the reason for homework.
Homework reinforces what is being taught in the classroom and teaches students important life skills – responsibility, time management and task completion. Children should be able to complete the work with little help from parents, and they shouldn’t come home with an entirely new concept to learn. Homework should be practice or an extension of what they’ve already learned.
2. Know the teacher’s philosophy. Teachers have different philosophies about how much homework to assign. Some think piling on a ton of homework helps build character. Others think children have done enough work during the day and don’t assign any. Understand where your child’s teacher falls on the homework spectrum so you are not surprised as the homework does (or doesn’t) come home. If you are unsure what a reasonable amount of homework is, The National Education Association and The National Parent Teacher Association recommend 10-20 minutes of homework per night in the first grade, and an additional 10 minutes per grade after that.
WEBSITES THAT HELP WITH HOMEWORK
Factmonster.com: Find facts on a variety of school subjects and play educational games. Also has a dictionary, encyclopedia, thesaurus, atlas, almanac, and timelines. Khanacademy.com: Includes online courses, lessons and practice in a variety of subjects for students in kindergarten through high school. Also includes test prep and information about college and careers.
9. Use a timer if necessary. Sometimes children like to procrastinate. Some children like the challenge of beating the clock. Either way, a timer keeps a child focused on the finish line. 10. Keep a resource bookshelf. Can’t remember what a gerund is? Are you a little rusty on what the terms perpendicular and parallel mean? Keep an assortment of reference books or save online references to your Favorites list on your computer. A good math dictionary for parents of elementary students is Math Dictionary: Homework Help for Families by Judith de Klerk. Another great resource is the Everything You Need to Know About Homework Series Set by Anne Zeman and Kate Kelly. 11. Create a phone chain. How many times has your child left their spelling words at school or forgotten a lesson? Help your child make a list of friends they can call or get to know other parents in your child’s class so you can have a phone chain to get answers about assignments.
Dictonary.com and Thesaurus.Com: This website is a dual tool to help students define words and find synonyms.
8. Be available, but don’t do the work. Helping your child with homework is a great way to connect with them, but don’t spoon feed answers. The whole point of homework is for children to practice skills independently.
18 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
<<< Continued from page 17
12. Model learning as a priority. Let your child see you reading the newspaper or books. Discuss current events, politics or the new art or history museum you want to visit. Find exciting tidbits in their homework lessons and research them. Show by example that learning is fun. 13. Encourage. No matter how tired you are, have a positive attitude about the work your child is doing. Encourage their efforts and let them know you are proud of them.
Quizlet.com: Provides study tools like flashcards, games and study sets. Make your own or choose from their library of topics.
14. Reward. Homework rewards don’t have to be elaborate, although you may want to up the ante for a struggling child or one who is hard to motivate. A reward can be something as simple as a fun activity when they finish. But you can also keep a homework incentive chart and let your child earn a special activity with mom or dad, some extra screen time or a dinner out. 15. Don’t be afraid to speak up. If you think too much homework is coming home, that your child isn’t familiar with the material or that they are struggling, don’t be too intimidated to schedule a conference with your child’s teacher. Most teachers welcome feedback and want to help your child succeed.
Janeen Lewis is a freelance journalist and teacher with a Master’s Degree in education. Because she loves to see her students get lost in books, reading is her favorite homework to assign.
What if my child is getting too much homework?
Sometimes kids take longer to learn some skills than others. But if the problem becomes pervasive, this could be a sign your child needs some extra help.
Tips: Support for Common School Work Struggles
What if my child breezes through homework or is under challenged in school?
Tinycards: This flashcard app helps with memorization.
Talk to your child’s teacher about giving your child more challenging work. If your child still seems to be on Easy Street, you might consider having him or her tested for gifted services. Finally, if the problem persists over time, ask to have your child promoted or see if he or she can take classes in areas of strength in a higher grade.
What if my child is taking too long to complete homework?
If you have a good homework routine in place, and your child is working hard but struggling, don’t panic.
Dictionary.com: This app works just like a print dictionary without taking up desk space.
Too much homework can be a drain on family time. And if your child is spending hours completing home work every night, they may get burnt out. Talk to other parents in your child’s class to see if they are encoun tering the same problem. Then approach your child’s teacher diplomatically with the problem. If the problem doesn’t get any better you might consider discuss ing it with the administration or the school’s Parent Teacher Association to see if a more reasonable and uniform policy can be decided for the school.
Don’t lose heart, and chances are your child won’t either. ✷
TroubleshootingHelp!
APPS THAT HELP WITH HOMEWORK
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 19
My GradeBook: Students or parents can keep track of grades with this app.
Meta Calculator: A graphing, scientific, matrix and statistics calculator app, this will help in those challenging upper level math classes.
StudyBlue: Provides tools including flashcards, notes and study guides.
myHomework: This student planner syncs across devices and allows students to access classes and assignments and sends due date reminders.
Consider hiring a tutor or see if your school offers homework help at its after-school program. If your child begins to fall behind, testing him or her might be a good course of action to rule out any learning challenges. Remember, keep an upbeat attitude.
Be available, but don’t do the work. The whole point of homework is for children to practice skills independently.
Check the weather the evening before school so that kids can lay out their clothing and outerwear for the next
Takingmorning.theStressOut
LUNCH SOLUTION
After the kids have completed their homework, have them pack their back packs up. Parents can sign permission slips, go through school papers, and gather any supplies needed for school the next day and pack them up. Does your child have their gym uniform and band instrument? When everything is ready the night before, there is less to do on school mornings.
Packing a healthy school lunch (or multiple lunches can take up a lot of time in the morning. Get a head start on lunch preparations by start ing the evening before. “If my kitchen is clean, I feel like I am ahead of the game. Every night before going to bed I prepare lunches for the next day, put away clean dishes, and reload the dish washer.” says Kim Burnette, mother of two. By getting a head start the night before, you eliminate a big step, leav ing you time for other things in the morning.
BACKPACK SOLUTION
By Sarah Lyons
WARDROBE SOLUTION
of Back-to-School Mornings
School mornings can be stressful for both parents and kids. The morning can be very hectic with limited time to eat breakfast, get dressed, gather belongings, and get to school on time. Here are some ideas for families to lower the stress and create a smoother school
20 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
• Wrap it up – fill a tortilla with meat, cheese, and veggies, add your favorite dressing.
• Different sandwich put meat and cheese on a sub sandwich instead of bread or send some thing unusual like peanut butter and banana (use sunbutter for a nut-free option)
BREAKFAST SOLUTION
Many parents find that if they can wake up before the kids, they feel more refreshed and prepared for a productive morning. This gives them the time to take a few minutes to wake up, enjoy a cup of coffee, or grab a quick shower. Mother of three, Jessi Cole, says “I find that it helps if I get up early and get myself ready before my kids get up. That way, I only have to worry about them.”
• Kabobs – fill skewers with grapes, tomatoes, cheese cubes, or meat
• Quesadillas – they are taste great cold too
• Breakfast for lunch
Many of these items can be prepared the night before to help the morning go smoother.
September
• Send pasta or lettuce salad
EARLY TO BED, EARLY TO RISE
ELIMINATE ELECTRONICS
day. With coats, hats, gloves, and boots laid out there is less scramble to find everything the next morn ing. Also try laying out the entire week’s clothing on Sunday. “We have a small plastic set of drawers with 5 drawers that can be purchased in the storage section at Target. We put an outfit for both of the kids in each on Sunday.” says Alicia Dafferner, mother of two.
Think Outside the Lunch Box
• Homemade lunchables –cheese, meat, and crackers
PREP YOURSELF
| BostonParentsPaper.com 21
Help make breakfast healthier and quicker by planning ahead. Sherry Hoffman, mom of two boys, says “I make several breakfast options that are freezer and toaster oven friendly on the weekends that we can choose throughout the week.” Ideas for freezer-friendly breakfast items include breakfast burritos, waffles, french toast, or muffins. There are also easy to make options like whole grain cereal, yogurt with fruit and granola, or a breakfast smoothie.
• Leftovers – send last night’s dinner, chicken and pizza make a great lunch
• Fill a Thermos with soup or pasta
Some kids are more likely to eat their lunch if they are given a variety of foods rather than the same old thing every day. Here are some ideas to get you thinking outside the lunch box.
• Dip it – hummus with veggies or crackers, guacamole with chips, or ranch with veggies
“I have noticed that it makes our mornings much smoother if my kids get enough sleep, so early bedtimes are a must.” says Hoffman. Kids who have a consistent early bedtime are more rested for an early wake up. Rested kids are in better moods and stay on task on school mornings, causing less stress and conflict in the morning.
With limited time to be prepared for school, it is best to eliminate electronic distractions. Parents and kids need to focus on the goal, which is getting to school on time. Dis tractions like television, handheld devices, and video games only slow down the process. Remind kids that there will be time for electronics after school, when their chores and homework are complete. Adjusting to a new school schedule can take a while, but if parents do their best to prepare the night before and teach kids to do the same, the mornings will run much smoother. ✷ Sarah Lyons has the task of getting her six children to school in the morning. Planning and preparation help her household run smoothly. 2022
22 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
Walk your child through what she can expect on the first day. Discuss her transportation and daily sched ule at school. If the child has specific worries, try to address when that will happen during day. For some, role playing can help them feel more comfortable. Begin By Sarah Lyons
START WITH THE BASICS
s kids pack up their new backpacks, sharpen their pencils, and try on their new fall clothes, most start to get excited about the first day of school. While the beginning of the school year is an exciting time and represents a new start, some kids may feel anxious about the unknown. A new teacher, new classmates, or a new school can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. Using some simple strategies, parents can help prepare their children for the first day and ease their concerns.
When children are well rested and have full tummies, they are better prepared for a busy day. Start adjusting bedtime and wake up times a week or more in advance so the child has time to adjust to the new school routine. A healthy and filling breakfast starts children off on the right foot. When these needs are met, parents and kids can work together to tackle school anxiety.
Allow your child to talk about his feelings. Help him list the specific things that he is worrying about. Instead of brushing aside worry, let him know it is natural to be nervous and you will help him adjust to a new school. Try reading some age appropriate children’s books about the first day of school jitters.
TALK IT THROUGH
DISCUSS THE PLAN
Walk your child through what she can expect on the first day. Discuss uleandtransportationherdailysched-atschool.
Focus on the positive when you talk to your child about
When a child recognizes a friendly face in the class room, it can make them feel much more at ease. Encour age your child to meet other children in the neighbor hood that will be in the same class. Host a playdate or a class picnic for the kids.
The first day of school can be a stressful time. Reward your child for their bravery with a small toy, a special dessert, or a trip to their favorite park. It takes a lot of courage to try something new and it should be recognized. ✷ Sarah Lyons, mom to six children, loves all that goes along with a new school year. This year she will send her daughter off to kindergarten and both are experiencing a little anxiety and a lot of excitement.
Encourageschool. your child to meet other children in the neighborhood that will be in the same class.
FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE Often parents are just as anxious about their child going off to school as the student. Focus on the positive when you talk to your child about school. Make it excit ing by having your child pick out a new backpack, school supplies, and an outfit for the first day. Encourage older siblings to help by talking about the fun things they will experience at school. Ask your child what they are excited about. Watch your own anxiety on the first day and try to behave in a calm and positive way.
TAKE A TOUR If the school has a “Meet the Teacher” night, take advantage of this time to show the child the classroom, become familiar with the surroundings, and introduce them to the teacher. This will allow the child to feel more comfortable in their surroundings on the first day.
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 23
DISCUSS WITH TEACHER
If anxiety persists after the first few days of school, contact the teacher and share your concerns. She may have some suggestions on how to deal with a student’s anxiety and will be aware of the situation. Oftentimes, a teacher who knows a child is dealing with anxiety will give them extra support in the classroom.
ENCOURAGE FRIENDSHIPS
REWARD FOR BRAVERY
the day as you would a typical school morning. Prepare breakfast, get dressed, and pack bags as if you are going to school. Act out the child’s day and “play school”. Take turns being the teacher. Making it a game can make the child more comfortable when the real day approaches.
By Katy M. Clark
The experience of being the new kid has encouraged me to teach my own children to look for the new students in their schools and be kind to them.
Teach your kids to look for the new kids, not past them.
24 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
grow up in the same place their whole lives. “Are you the new teacher?” one of them“No,”asked.Ireplied. Then I froze. I knew I was taller than the average twelveyear-old, but had I just been mistak en for an adult? “I’m a new student here,” I told them. And then they walked away. Being the new kid is a phenome non that many children will experi ence in their lives. School districts and government agencies officially refer to it as student mobility, de fined as any time a student changes school for reasons other than grade promotion. Student mobility can be voluntary, such as changing schools to participate in a magnet program, or involuntary, as was my case, due to a change in my father’s job. But on that uncomfortable first day, I was not thinking about what kind of statistic I was. All I knew was that I was alone, nervous, and scared. The experience of being the new kid has encouraged me to teach my own children to look for the new students in their schools and be kind to them. In a culture that is desperate for kindness, reaching out to the new kids is a tangible way to demonstrate it.
Iadjusted my off-the-shoulder sweatshirt covered in splat ter paint. Inspired by the movie Flashdance, my sweatshirt did little to distract from the fact that I was a 5’8” tall twelve-year-old stand ing alone outside a middle school classroom. It was the first day of school and I knew no one. My family had just relocated to the area from several states away. As I waited for the door to my classroom to open, I saw two girls whispering nearby. “Smile,” I thought to myself as my lips curled over my teeth, covered in braces. “Make new friends,” I could hear my mother’s voice inside my head coaching me. They approached, with the kind of confidence reserved for kids who
4 Invite the new kid to hang out after school.
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 25
Recognize that there will be new kids at school, kids who do not know anyone. Look for them, don’t look past them.
Compliment the new kid. Maybe she has a cool backpack. Maybe she’s wearing a shirt with a sports team that is also your favorite sports team. On my painful first day, remember those girls that walked away from me? Later that day one of them told me she liked my watch band. It was a small comment, but it meant so much to me. 10 Be welcoming and inclusive in group work in class. Remember, the new kid knows no one and things may have run differently at his old school. Parents, teach your kids to look for the new students and take any of these concrete steps to be kind and helpful. As a result, the new kid won’t feel so alone and will be one step closer to finding her way in a newAndschool.ifyou see any new moms or dads standing alone at the pick-up loop after school? Then it’s your turn to say hello. Ask where they are from. If you never even talk to the new parents, then you won’t find out if you have anything in common or not. ✷ Katy M. Clark is a writer who embraces her imperfections as a mom on her blog, ExperiencedBadMom.com.
7
2 Say hi. Ask where the new kid is from. Does she have any pets or siblings?
1
Sit with her on the bus or stand with him at the pick-up loop. Even if it’s just for a day or two.
Sit with the new kid at lunch. Oh my word, just sit with him at lunch on the first day.
Tell the new kid about clubs, sports, or other activities at school. When I was invited to join the basketball team, I gained a whole team of friends.
5 Did I mention just talk to the new kid? It’s okay if you’re not best friends. Maybe you won’t have anything in common. But if you never even talk to the new kid, then you won’t find out if you have anything in common or not.
8
9
Help the new kid find things like the gym and the cafeteria.
Below are 10 concrete ways I’m teaching my kids to help the new kid in school.
May you find these helpful to share with your own kids as the school year begins:
6
3
26 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
Sept.Thursday,8,15& 24 Chinatown Arts Festival 5pm, Chinatown Gate, Boston. Chinatown Arts Festival promises music and dance performances, family-friendly workshops, and pop-up events in Boston Chinatown. FREE. 617-863-9080 www.bcnc.net Always check ahead to confirm dates, times, need to pre-register and if there are any mask or social distancing requirements. Family Calendar
WIKIMEDIA.ORGDWYER,STEPHENJOHNBYPHOTO
3 Saturday 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. Weekends and Monday holidays through Oct. 23. 952-238-9915; www.kingrichardsfaire.net Lowell Summer Music Series 7:30pm, Boarding House Park, 40 French St., Lowell. Today’s show, Sugar Ray and The Bluetones. Under 12 free with accompanied paid ticket holder. 978-970-5200; www.lowellsummermusic.org Halloween on the Farm See website for daily times, Connors Farm, 30 Valley Road (Rte. 35) Danvers. A ticket to Connors Farm Corn Maze also includes hayrides, pedal carts, and activities in Danvers. The flashlight maze and haunted farm are only open Friday and Saturday nights. Through 10/31. 978-777-1245; www.connorsfarm.com
2 Friday Spencer County Fair
7:30pm, Boarding House Park, 40 French St., Lowell. Today’s show, Twiddle. Under 12 free with accompanied paid ticket holder. 978-970-5200; www.lowellsummermusic.org
Varying times, Gloucester Harbor, Gloucester. Through Sept. 5. Artisans, entertainment, food and more await at this major maritime and sailing event. Sunday morning’s Parade of Sail is a highlight. FREE. discovergloucester.com/gloucester-schooner-festivalwww. Mayor Michelle Wu’s Movie Nights
7:30pm, 38 Beacon Street, Boston Common. Catch an outdoor viewing of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. FREE. 617-635-4505; www.boston.gov/parks Lowell Summer Music Series
27
Summer FREE Friday Nights
1 Thursday Gloucester Schooner Festival
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
See website for daily schedule, Spencer Fairgrounds, 48 Smithville Road, Spencer. A traditional country fair with horse and tractor pulls, farm exhibits, farm animals, giant pumpkins, a carnival midway, live music, and a demolition derby at Spencer Fairgrounds. Adult $12, Child 7-12 $9, under 7, free. Through Sept. 5. 508-885-5814; www.spencerfair.org
4:30-8pm, Discovery Museum, 177 Main Street (Rte 27) Acton. Explore the museum and Discovery Woods FREE every Friday night in the summer. Non-perishable food donations would be greatly appreciated for Open Table and the Acton Food Pantry. Advance reservations required. 978-264-4200; www.discoveryacton.org Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo 6-10:30pm, Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston. Experience over 60 displays of hundreds of beautifully crafted lanterns spanning 72 acres. Through September 25. See website for admission information. 617-541-5466; www.zoonewengland.org
Through Sept. 25
Tour the school, meet the teachers, see the classrooms. Open Houses 34 Winter St. | Arlington, MA 02474 | lesleyellis.org
5 Monday, Labor Day
ENGLANDNEWZOOOFCOURTSEYPHOTO
Bread & Roses Heritage Festival
9 Friday USS Constitution Museum Movie Nights
8 Thursday
28 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
Check our website for details and more information about the open house and other admission events. Accepting applications for 2023 Financial aid is available. Sunday, November 6 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 16 7:30 pm All preschoolSchool-Grade 8 MiddleGradesSchool5-8
6-10:30pm, Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston. Experience over 60 displays of hundreds of beautifully crafted lanterns spanning 72 acres. Through September 25. See website for admission information. 617-541-5466; www.zoonewengland.org
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. 978-309-9740; www.breadandrosesheritage.org
3:30pm, George Lane Beach, Weymouth. A floating lantern event celebrating connections including food, games, activities, music and the beauty of thousands of lanterns reflecting on the water. $25.99 and up. www.waterlanternfestival.com
6:30pm, Charlestown Navy Yard. Summer Movie Nights on “Old Ironsides” will conclude for the season with a free showing of Greyhound on the spar deck of USS Constitution! Seating is first come, first served. The doors open at 6:30pm and the film will begin at 7:15pm. Before the movie begins, guests will have a chance to hear from Museum Public Historian, Carl Herzog, about the film’s connections to the Charlestown Navy Yard. FREE. www.ussconstitutionmuseum.org
Outstanding academics. Critical thinkers. Global citizens. Preschool - Grade 8 Tricia Moran, Director of Admission 781.641.1346 tmoran@lesleyellis.org
Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo
Water Lantern Festival
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 29 NAEYC ACCrEditEd ProgrAms www.thEtobiNFAmilYoFsChools.org LEADERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION THE TOBIN SCHOOL Preschool – Jr Kindergarten 73 Cottage Street • Natick, MA 01760 508-655-5006 • www.thetobinschool.org TOBIN CHILDREN’S SCHOOL Infants – PreK 71 Cottage Street • Natick, MA 01760 508-653-6300 • www.tobinchildrensschool.org TOBIN SCHOOL WESTWOOD PreK & Junior K 1054 High Street • Westwood, MA 02090 781-329-7775 • www.tobinschoolwestwood.org WESTWOOD CHILDREN’S SCHOOL Infants – Preschool 808 High Street • Westwood, MA 02090 781-329-7766 • www.westwoodchildrensschool.org TOP 10 2022 2022
30 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
Toddler preschool Elementary Enrolling
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12-8pm, Assembly Row, 300 Grand Union Blvd, Boston. A culmination of a summer of activity, with live music, art, a sidewalk sale, food, children’s activities and fireworks show. 617-684-1511; www.assemblyrow.com
Melrose Victorian Fair 11am – 4pm, Main Street, Melrose. A hometown festival with vendors, performances, games, food and more. FREE. 781-665-3033; www.melrosechamber.org
10am-4pm, Codman Estate, 34 Codman Rd, Lincoln. This annual event features the work of more than 100 local artisans. Work includes painting, woodworking, food products, jewelry, photography, glass, clothing, metalwork, and more. Enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, and firstfloor open house of the Codman House Museum. 617-9945914; www.historicnewengland.org
Riverfest at Assembly Row
JP Music Festival Noon – 7pm, Pinebank Baseball Field on the N.E. corner of Jamaica Pond. Jamaica Plain. With over 20 acts, eight food trucks, and activities for kids, thousands of people attended over the course of the afternoon to listen to music of great JP musicians to the neighborhood. FREE. www.jpmusicfestival@gmail.com; jpmusicfestival.com
Pamela S. Milman, Esq. Daniel Mikolajewski, Esq. Nicole Metsisto Mazer, Esq. Ashley R. Waxman, Esq. 999 Broadway, Suite 301 Saugus, MA 01906 Phone: 781.231.IDEA (4332) Fax: 781.231.FAPE (3273) Email: www.educationandjuvenilelaw.comecals@comcast.net
10 Saturday Free Community Day at Discovery Museum 9am-4:30pm, Discovery Museum, 177 Main Street (Rte 27) Acton. A celebration of 40 years, Community Day is a thank you to the community. Try your hand at classic Discovery Museum activities and enjoy some special performances. Advance reservations required. 978-264-4200; www.discoveryacton.org
Codman Estate Fine Arts and Crafts Festival
Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo 6-10:30pm, Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston. Experience over 60 displays of hundreds of beautifully crafted lanterns spanning 72 acres. Through September 25. See website for admission information. 617541-5466; www.zoonewengland.org 11 Sunday Cambridge Carnival International 11am to 5pm, University Park, Cambridge. A colorful and festive celebration rooted in African traditions with a costume parade, international foods, crafts, kids’ activities and more. FREE. 617-863-0476; www.cambridgecarnival. org Reading Fall Street Faire Noon- 5pm, Washington Park,100 Washington St., Reading. A community festival with a family-friendly events, cornhole tournament, children’s area, performances and antique car show. FREE. www.fallstreetfaire.com
Vintage Baseball and Ipswich Ale Cup Mini Tournament 11am – 3pm, Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm, 5 Little’s Lane, Newbury. Take in some fun, historically accurate baseball, nineteenth century style. Grass field seating. 978-462-2634; www.historicnewengland.org
11am – 5pm, The Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston. Learn about 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. www.bostonlocalfoodfestival.com or social distancing requirements.
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 31 Sunday, Sept 18
FESTIVALFOODLOCALBOSTONOFCOURTSEYSCHOEN,ADDIEBYPHOTO HUNTERS HAVEN FARM Hunter978-373-1300sHavenFarm.com 104 King St., Groveland, MA • Pony par ties for all occasions at your place or at the farm. • Riding lessons for all ages and abilities • Summer Camp J & J Pony Rentals ENTERTAINMENT AND PARTY NEEDS ChoiceParentsAwardWinner Fran Friedman Children’s Musician & Instructor Birthday Parties, Schools, PreschoolLibrarConcerts,ies&ElementaryMusicSpecialist WiWinnere Lots of Participation & Fun for All! 508-358-1614 • www.franfriedman.com BIG JOE the Storyteller www.bigjoe.com 617-713-4349 Birthday Parties Schools Libraries Special Events Original & classic stories Props, puppets, & surprises Virtual Storytelling Now Available Is yo ur enro llme nt do wn? Advertise Here! Call617.522.1515 Always check ahead to confirm dates, times, need to pre-register and if there are any mask
16
The Big E 8am – 11pm, Eastern States Exposition, 875 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Opening Day of the largest fair in the Northeast returns with top-name entertainment, rides, animals and amazing cream puffs. Through Oct. 2. See website for schedule and ticket options. 413-737-2443; www.thebige.com
17 Saturday South Boston Street Festival 11am to 4pm, East Broadway, between I and L Streets, Boston. Live entertainment on 2 stages, over 100 local merchants, artists, and organizations, great food, dance performances, children’s activities, pooch friendly. FREE. www.southbostonstreetfestival.com
Free Museum Day Museum Day is a one-day event in which participating museums and cultural institutions across the country provide free entry to anyone presenting a Museum Day ticket. Local participating museum. Participants are allowed to download one ticket per email address. The ticket provides free general admission on Saturday, September 17 for two people. Tickets are available to download at www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday
Boston Local Food Festival
Family Farm Day 11am – 3pm, Verrill Farm, 11 Wheeler Road, Concord. Chow on some BBQ as you listen to live music, pick your own veggies, then take a hayride or enter the corn husking contest. FREE. 978-369-4494; www.verrillfarm.com Fluff Festival 3-7pm, Union Square, Somerville. This annual celebration of Somerville’s homegrown marshmallow spread includes performances, shenanigans, midway games, a Fluff cooking contest and more. FREE. www.flufffestival.com
15 Thursday Chinatown Arts Festival 5pm, Chinatown Gate, Boston. Chinatown Arts Festival promises music and dance performances, family-friendly workshops, and pop-up events in Boston Chinatown. Additional event on Sept. 24. FREE. 617-863-9080; www.bcnc.net Friday
32 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022 CLASSES AND ENRICHMENT TOP 5 2022 2022 Contact Molly at SmallFunwww.pianoplaytime.com617-999-8794•Creative•PianoLessonsLearnPianoToday!Group•PrivateLessons on site, in home or virtual 781-890-8480 • www.BayStateSkatingSchool.org TOP 5 2022 2022 Bay State Skating School LEARN TO SKATE CLASSES for Recreational • Figure • Hockey Skating Skills The safety of our customers and staff is our #1 priority! featuredAs Chronicleon Over 50 Years Experience Children (4-18 years) Cambridge, Brookline, Cleveland Circle, Medford, Newton-Brighton, Quincy, Somerville, Waltham, West Roxbury, Weymouth Private Lessons • Group Classes • Ensembles • Concerts
18 Sunday Kids Run the Bases
5pm, Chinatown Gate, Boston. Chinatown Arts Festival promises music and dance performances, family-friendly workshops, and pop-up events in Boston Chinatown. FREE. 617-863-9080; www.bcnc.net
5-8pm, Discovery Museum 177 Main Street, Acton. Join in during this special free evening especially for families with members on the autism spectrum. In our ADA-compliant building you can play and explore when the Museum is closed to the general public. Dinner, including a gluten-free option, will be provided. The Museum will be closed to the general public and headcount will be limited. www.discoveryacton.org
Chinatown Arts Festival
27 Tuesday Take a Child Outside Week at Discovery Museum 10am-5pm, Discovery Museum 177 Main Street, Acton. Celebrate Take a Child Outside Week at the Discovery Museum. Explore Discovery Woods to make art and nature activities like nature journaling, spray art, Stone Soup made from forest treasures, and more! Activities included with Museum admission. Free with preregistration. www.discoveryacton.org ✷
Always check ahead to confirm dates, times, need to pre-register and if there are any mask or social distancing requirements.
11am-8pm, St. Mark’s Orthodox Church, 340 Clapboard St., Westwood. Come and sample delectable Gyro, Lamb Shank & Roasted Leg of Lamb roasted to perfection. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a variety of pastries. Enjoy music and dancing. For the children, face painting, balloon animals, and bouncy houses! Through 9/25. 781-326-2380; www.facebook.com/StMarksGreekFest
11:00am—4:00pm, Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, Princeton. Listen to live music, shop local crafters, and enjoy locally made foods and baked goods for sale. Admission includes many free ongoing activities for all including canoeing, hayrides, pumpkin painting and more. If you’re a fan of the arts, the Princeton Arts Society will be hosting art demonstrations and art for sale. $10 per person, www.massaudubon.org
Especially for Me Autism-friendly Evening at Discovery Museum
September 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com 33
BLUE’S CLUES & YOU! LIVE ON STAGE 2pm, Emerson Colonial Theatre, 106 Boylston Street. Blue’s Clues & You! Live on Stage is an epic new adventure! Josh is conjuring up a magical theater show, but he needs YOUR help! Kids and families will fall in love with theater as they solve Blue’s Clues to find out what Josh needs to make a show. Tickets $29.50-$79.50; www.emersoncolonialtheatre.com
National Parks Fee Free Day Entrance fees are waived today at National Parks, Forests and Wildlife Refuges nationwide in honor of National Public Lands Day. FREE. www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks. htm Blacksmith Art & Renaissance Festival 10am to 4:30pm, Riverfront Park, Fitchburg. Celebration of the art of blacksmithing with competitions, demonstrations, family art activities, music, arts and crafts, and food vendors at Riverfront Park in Fitchburg. FREE. www. fitchburgforgein.org
Hey Day
1:35pm, Fenway Park, 4 Yawkey Way, Boston. Join in when the Red Sox take on the Texas Rangers. All kids are invited to run the bases post-game at Fenway Park, weather permitting. Free with ticket. www.mlb.com/ redsox Boston Local Food Festival 11am – 5pm, The Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston. Learn about 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.comwww.
24 Saturday Greek Fest
Featured Event October 8 Saturday
By Suzanna Parpos ninja turtles…anything that retained my son’s interest during that particular moment of a time. Each year, I had 180 nights to get my art Untilon.the mutually agreed upon school day when the lunchbox notes got “pink-slipped.” My son didn’t need them anymore. My resignation as the “queen bee” of lunchbox notes came in the tran quility of gratitude. Why? Because the non-lovey-dovey notes weren’t about obliging the dodge of an em barrassment at the cafeteria table. And the elaborate, “Louvre-like” art wasn’t about the therapeutic benefits of coloring. It was about a mother giving her son comfort when he was (physically) away from her loving arms. It was about tenderly reassuring my son that he was safe in his home away from home and that his mom was, as she always will be, with him. My hope was that the 150% ef fort I put into those mini canvases of a mother’s expression of love would bring a smile to my son’s face during his school day. Essentially, my lunchbox notes were my “Kissing Hand” to him. In fact, they often featured characters from books we read. Finding draw ings of Fly Guy and Froggy with his mac and cheese and homemade Greek butter cookies would bring to mind our nestled-up bedtime reads, where warmth, laughter and security surrounded him in his mother’s embrace. THAT is why I stayed up all those late nights coloring elabo rate lunchbox notes, so my son could feel, and visually see, the love all school day through.
34 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022 Crayons – the sticks of pigmented wax used for col oring aren’t solely synony mous with school-aged children and the Marines. A box of Crayola was also a single mother’s go-to on many a late-nights. Before the days of, “bruh,” my preteen was a preschooler that loved getting lunchbox notes. I stretched out this written expres sion of love through as many of the elementary years as possible but much earlier than I would’ve liked, it became uncool for a boy to get a napkin with hand-drawn hearts on it from his mom. That’s what perplexes me – I wasn’t the mom that drew excessive symbols of love. My “canvas” wasn’t even a napkin; it was blank index cards. I put a wholehearted effort to ensure the notes were cool, partly at my son’s request that I not embarrass him, and partly because coloring elaborate lunchbox notes was oddly therapeutic… I confess: I was a single work ing mom in her thirties with a proclivity for staying up late at night to draw detailed lunchbox notes. In the light of the moon, I sat at the table with my Crayolas. And since no true artist creates Louvre-like lunchbox notes without a black Sharpie, I also had that next to my cup of tea. Yes, tea – not wine, because evidently in my thirties, I harbored the habits of someone in her nineties. Yes, I started my days with a coffee. Yes, I ended them with a tea. And yes, research abounds as to the benefits of coloring. Even for adults, it can relax the fear center of the brain and, “generate mindfulness and quietness, which allows your mind to get some rest after a long day at Iwork.”wasn’t conscious of the aforementioned when draw ing; I just knew it was relaxing to get lost in something creative. In the stillness of the night, I drew Minecraft and Star Wars, pirates and pumpkins, dinosaurs and The Art of the Lunchbox Note
In the light of the moon, I sat at the table with my Crayolas. And since no true artist creates Louvre-like lunchbox notes without a black Sharpie, I also had that next to my cup of tea.
Suzanna Parpos works in the field of education. She is a single mom and writer fueled more by music than coffee. For ten years, Suzanna freelance wrote a bi-weekly newspaper column in Mas sachusetts. Her work has also been published in Teaching PreK-8 Magazine, the Boston Metro, BLUNT Moms, Boston Parents Paper and Worcester Magazine, among other publications. She is known in her hometown for the traditional Greek moon-shaped cookies she bakes and delivers, all while wearing stilettos and a baseball hat. Visit her site at: www.suzannaparpos.com.
BostonParentsPaper.com 35 Because you and your baby deserve the best. Learn how our family cares for yours at: challiance.org/OBGYN BOSTON PARENTS PAPER READERS CHOICE AWARD WINNER.
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36 Boston Parents Paper | September 2022
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