Boston Parent October 2017

FREE

TM

OCTOBER 2016

FRIGHTFULLY

FUN

+ 140 Wicked-Cool

Things to Do

Boys Left Behind The Gender Gap in Education

FOOD RULES FOR YOUNG ATHLETES

Boston Parent’s Paper published by Parenting, LLC., a division of

©2016 Dominion Enterprises.

All Rights Reserved.

W hy An Inde p e nde nt Scho o l ?

Small CŽƒ••‡• Čˆ Commitment to Diver•‹–› Čˆ Performing Arts ProgrƒÂ?• Čˆ ‡Â?•‡ of Community Afternoon ProgrƒÂ?• Čˆ Athle–‹…• Čˆ ‡†‹cƒ–‡† Teacher• Čˆ IÂ?†‹˜i†—ƒŽ A––‡Â?–‹‘Â? Čˆ Travel Programs High Acƒ†‡mic StƒÂ?†ƒr†• Čˆ Visual Arts ProgrƒÂ?• Čˆ š’‡”‹‡Â?–‹ƒŽ Learning

A group of Greater Boston independent schools invites you to attend Open House Programs SCHOOL NAME ‡The Rivers School ‡The Sage School ‡%RVWRQ 8Qiversity Academy ‡'HOSKL $FDGHmy ‡The Learning Project ‡Fay School ‡'DQD +DOO 6chool ‡Park Street School ‡'HUby Academy ‡%RVWRQ Trinity Academy ‡The Roxbury Latin School ‡1Rble and Greenough School ‡5iverbend School ‡The Newman School ‡The Rashi School ‡6W 6ebastian’s School ‡*Hrman International School ‡Thayer Academy ‡Fayerweather Street School ‡0HDGRZErook School ‡Waldorf +LJK 6chool of 0DVV %ay ‡The Advent School ‡%ULPPHU DQG 0ay School ‡The Waldorf School of Lexington ‡Tenacre Countr\ 'ay School ‡&KaSHO +LOO &KDXQc\ +DOO 6chool ‡The Cambridge School of Weston ‡-Dckson Walnut Park Schools ‡'HGKDP &RXQWr\ 'ay School ‡1ewton Montessori School ‡.LQJVOey Montessori School ‡0HULGLDQ $FDGHmy ‡&RQFRrd Academy ‡'exter Southfield School ‡/exington Montessori School ‡%% 1 /RZHU 6chool ‡%% 1 0LGGOH DQG 8SSHU 6chool ‡&KDrles River School ‡$WULXP School ‡&DPEULGge Montessori School ‡6KDd\ +LOO 6chool-Lower School ‡%HOPRQW 'ay School ‡$GDPV 0RQWHVVRUL 6chool ‡&DPEULGge Friends School ‡0LOWRQ $FDGHm\ . 'ivision ‡The Fessenden School ‡TKH &KHVWQXW +LOO 6chool ‡/HVOey Ellis School ‡1ewton Countr\ 'ay School ‡The Park School ‡%HDYHU &RXQWr\ 'ay School ‡The Winsor School ‡The Fenn School ‡6KDd\ +LOO 6chool-Middle School ‡Thacher Montessori School

CITY/TOWN Weston Foxboro %RVWRQ Milton %RVWRQ Southborough Wellesley %RVWRQ +LQJKDP %RVWRQ West Roxbury 'HGKDP S. Natick %RVWRQ 'HGKDP Needham %RVWRQ %raintree Cambridge Weston %HOPRQW %RVWRQ &KHVWQXW +LOO Lexington Wellesley Waltham Weston Newton 'HGKDP Newton %RVWRQ %RVWRQ Concord %rookline Lexington Cambridge Cambridge 'over Watertown Cambridge Cambridge %HOPRQW Quincy Cambridge Milton West Newton &KHVWQXW +LOO Arlington Newton %rookline &KHVWQXW +LOO %RVWRQ Concord Cambridge Milton

AGES AND GRADES 11-18 years (6-12) 3.9-14 years (PK-8) 13-18 years (9-12) 2.9-13 years (PK-8) 5-12 years (K-6) 4-15 years (PK-9) 10-18 years (girls 5-12) 2-12 (Toddler-6) 4-15 years (PK-8) 11-18 years (6-12) 12-18 years (boys 7-12) 11-18 years (7-12) 15 mo-14 years (T-8) 13-19 years (9-12) 5-14 years (K-8) 12-18 years (boys 7-12) 3-18 (PS-12) 11-18 years (6-12) 3-14 years (PK-8) 4-14 years (Jr.K-8) 14-18 years (9-12) 4-12 years (PK-6) 4-18 years (PK-12) 6wks-14 years (PK-8) 4-12 years (PK-6) 14-18 years (9-PG) 14-18 years (9-12) 18 mo -12 years (T-6) 4-14 years (PK-8) 15mo-12 years (T-6) 2-12 years (T-6) 11-18 years (6-12) 14-18 years (9-12) 4-18 years (PK-12) 21 mos-14 years (T-8) 4-12 years (PK-6) 12-18 years (7-12) 4-14 years (PK-8) 4-14 years (PK-8) 21 mos. to 14 years (T-8) 4-10 years (PK-4) 4-14 years (PK-8) 15 mo -12 yrs (T-6) 4-14 years (PK-8) 5 -14 years (K-8) 4-15 years (boys PK-9) 3-12 yearV %eginners-6) 2.9-14 years (PS-8) 10-18 years (girls 5-12) 4-14 years (PK-8) 11-18 years (6-12) 10-18 years (girls 5-12) 9-15 years (boys 4-9) 11-14 years (5-8) 15 mos. to 14 years (T-8)

OPEN HOUSE DATE(S) : TIME(S) Sun., September 18: 1-3:30 pm â?– Sat., Oct. 29: 9-12 pm Sat., October 1: 9-11 am & Wed., Nov. 9: 8:30-10:30 am Sun., October 2 & Sun., November 6: 1-3 pm 6XQ 2FWREHU DQG 6XQ 'HFHPEHU SP Tue., October 4: 4-6 pm â?– Sat., October 22: 11-2 pm Wed., October 5: 10-12 pm â?– Sun., Nov. 13: 1-3:30 pm Thurs. Oct. 6: 5-7 pm (MS) â?– Sun., Oct. 16 (MS/86 : 1-3 pm Thurs., October 6: 9-11 am â?– Mon., Oct. 17: 6-7:30 pm Thurs., October 13 and Wed., November 9: 9-11am Sat., October 15: 12-2 pm â?– Tues. Nov.,15: 6:30-8:30 pm Sat., October 15: 10-1:30 pm â?– Sun., Nov. 6: 12:30-4 pm Sat., October 15: 9-12 pm â?– TXH 'HF pm Sat., Oct. 15: 10:30-12 (T-K) pm â?– Sun., Nov. 20: 2-3:30 pm (10-8) Sun., October 16: 11-1 pm Thurs., October 20: 10 am â?– Sun., Nov., 20: 10:30 am Thurs., Oct. 20: 5:30-8:30 pm â?– Thurs., 'ec. 1: 7-8:30 pm Sat., October 22: 10-12 pm â?– Thurs., Nov. 17: 9-11 am 6DW 2FWREHU 86 6DW 2FW 06 SP Sat., October 22: 1-4 pm â?– Sat., Jan. 7 10-12 pm Sat., October 22: 1-3 pm â?– TXH 'HF am Sat., October 22: 1-2:30 pm Sun., October 23: 1-3 pm â?– WHG 'HF DP Sun., October 23 (Lower ScKRRO SP 06 86 SP Sun., October 23: 1-3 pm â?– Sat., January 14: 10-12pm Sun., Oct., 23: 1-3 pm â?– Tues., Nov. 15: 8:15-10:15 am Sun., October 23 & Sun., November 6: 12:30-3 pm Sun., October 23: 1-4 pm Sun., October 23: 12-2 pm â?– Wed., Nov. 9: 5:30-7:30 pm Sun., October 23: 1-3 pm â?– Thurs., Nov. 10: 8:30-10:30 am Sun., October 23: 1 pm Tue., October 25 and Thurs., 'ec. 1: 8:45 -10:15 am WHG 2FWREHU 0RQ 'HFHPEHU SP Sat., October 29: 9 am-1 pm Sat., Oct. 29 (Gr. 6-12): 9-12 pm â?– Sat., Nov. 5 (PK-5): 10 -12 pm Sat., October 29: 10-12 pm â?– Tues., Jan. 10: 9:30-11 am Sat., October 29: 12-2:30 pm Sat., October 29: 9-12 pm Sat., October 29: 12-2 pm â?– Sun., November 6: 2-4 pm Sun., Oct. 30: 2-4 pm (PK-8)â?– Wed., Nov. 2: 6:30-8 pm (MS) Sun., October 30: 1-3 pm Sun., October 30: 2-4 pm Sat., Nov. 5: 9:30-12 pm Sat., November 5 & Sat., January 7: 10-12 pm Sat., November 5: 1:30-4 pm Sat., November 5: 1:30-3:30 pm Sun., November 6 : 1-3 pm â?– Thurs, Nov. 17: 6:30-8 (P&K) Sun., November 6: 1-3 pm Sun., November 6: 1-3 pm (PS-8) â?– Wed., Nov. 16: 7 pm (MS) Sun., November 6: 1-3 pm Sun., November 6: 12-3 pm Fri., November 11: 8:15-11:30 am â?– Tue., 'ec. 6: 7-8:30 pm Fri., November 11: 8:30-10:30 am Sun., November 13: 2-4 pm Thurs., November 17: 7 pm Sat., Nov. 19: 10:30-12 pm â?– Thurs 'HF 11 am

PHONE 781-235-9300 508-543-9619 617-353-9000 617-333-9610 617-266-8427 508-490-8201 781-235-3010 617-523-7577 781-749-0746 617-364-3700 617-477-6317 781-320-7100 508-655-7333 617-267-4530 781-355-7318 781-449-5200 617-783-2600 781-664-2221 617-876-4746 781-894-1193 617-489-6600 617-742-0520 617-738-8695 781-863-1062 781-235-2282 781-314-0800 781-642-8650 617-202-9772 781-329-0850 617-969-4488 617-226-4927 617-277-1118 978-402-2250 617-454-2721 781-862-8571 617-800-2471 617-800-2136 508-785-8213 617-923-4156 617-492-3410 617-520-5200 617-484-3078 617-773-8200 617-354-3880 617-898-2509 617-630-2300 617-566-4394 781-641-1346 617-244-4246 617-277-2456 617-738-2725 617-735-9503 978-369-5800 617-520-5200 617-361-2522

WEB ADDRESS rivers.org sageschool.org buacademy.org delphiboston.org learningproject.org fayschool.org danahall.org parkstreetschool.org derbyacademy.org bostontrinity.org roxburylatin.org nobles.edu theriverbendschool.org newmanboston.org rashi.org stsebs.org gisbos.org thayer.org fayerweather.org meadowbrook-ma.org waldorfhighschool.org adventschool.org brimmer.org thewaldorfschool.org tenacrecds.org chch.org csw.org jwpschools.org dedhamcountryday.org newtonmontessori.org kingsley.org meridianacademy.org concordacademy.org dextersouthfield.org lexmontessori.org bbns.org bbns.org charlesriverschool .org atrium.org cambridgemontessori.org shs.org belmontday.org adamsmontessori.org cfsmass.org milton.edu fessenden.org tchs.org lesleyellis.org newtoncountryday.org parkschool.org bcdschool.org winsor.edu fenn.org shs.org thacherschool.org

(MS= Middle ScKRRO 86 8SSHU 6chool PK=PreKindergarten T= Toddler) CALL LISTED NUMBERS OR VISIT WEB SITES FOR MORE INFORMATION AND DIRECTIONS. The schools listed above do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, disabilities, sexual orientation or family composition

contents october 2016

volume 32 • number 3

16

30 38

35

feature 16 Boys Left Behind

Schools are failing our boys, but the reason why may surprise you.

departments 6 On the Web October’s Featured Web Content

8 Editor’s Note Ode to October

10 Out & About

calendar 25 ✼ Fall Festivals

The only mice you’ll allow in your house!

See page 12.

✼ Pumpkin Paths ✼ Awesome Artifacts ✼ Curtain Call

on the cover

Get Your Spook On ✼ Get Lost ✼ Give Back ✼ Mowlificent Fowl

20 Family Health Food Rules for Young Athletes

38 The Vault Code Yellow

4

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

directories 23 Farms

29 Schools & Childcare Centers 34 Classes & Enrichment 37 Entertainment & Party Needs

ISTOCK©/THINKSTOCK

12 Family F.Y.I.

FABULOUS FALL

FASHIONS! HALLOWEEN COSTUME HEADQUARTERS TM

2016 WINNER

Speech-Language & Hearing

SHOP US FIRST!

Associates of Greater Boston, PC

Let us help your child get ahead this year!

We have the best values for fall & winter clothes for all ages!

• Hearing and Auditory Processing Tests • Speech, Language, Literacy Evaluations and Therapies for All Ages • Individual Early Intervention Therapy • Social Cognitive Groups • Occupational Therapy

A destination worth the trip!

Open 7 days a week.

Johnny Appleseed Plaza • 1021 Central Street • Leominster, MA

978-534-6604 • www.cutiepatuties.com

Dr. Maura G. Marks Ph.D., AuD., CCC-A/SLP., Director MEDFIELD 5 N. Meadows Road • 508-359-4532 PLAINVILLE 30 Man-Mar Dr. • 508-695-6848

TM

Serving Children through Adults

2016 2015 TOP 5

TM

TOP 5

www.speechlanguageandhearingassociates.com

From big kids to little ones, scoliosis to sports injuries. injuries...we’ve got you covered.

The team of pediatric orthopaedic specialists at Shriners Hospitals for Children — Boston provides exceptional treatment for orthopaedic conditions and injuries. Children receive all services in a family-centered environment regardless of the families’ ability to pay.

For appointments: 617-722-3000

For urgent referrals: 844-8-LOVE-IS

51 Blossom St., Boston, MA 02114 ShrinersHospitalsforChildren.org/Boston October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

5

✼

on the web This Month at

BostonParentsPaper.com Expecting

Enter to Win …

Our 2016 edition of Expecting will help you plan for your newborn before and after he or she arrives. Turn each page to find informative articles on pregnancy symptoms you may not know about, prenatal nutrition, what makes new parents panic, why babies smile, valuable resources and much more! Available in print as well as online at BostonParentsPaper.com – just click on Expecting in the “Magazines” tab.

Disney Villains Dolls

DIY Halloween Costumes If you’ve ever balked at the price tag on the Halloween costume your child simply has to have, not to mention the flimsy material they are often constructed from, then have we got news for you. Get crafty on the cheap with these unique DIY Halloween costume ideas from thrift shops. Just scan this QR code or visit BostonParentsPaper.com/costumes.

The BPP Blog Follow our blog at BostonParentsPaper.com/blog to read these informative articles: * How to Treat Lice * Become a Master Communicator with Your Child * The Stress Bump: Challenges of Being Pregnant * After-School Activities: How Much Is Too Much? * Healthy Fruit Roll-Up Recipe

Surf Here, Too ...

✼ Browse our virtual magazines, including Your Family’s Health, Childcare & Preschool Guide, Family Survival Guide, Northeast Travel Guide and Education & Enrichment Guide at BostonParentsPaper.com. ✼ If you’re searching for the best doctors, hospitals, professional service providers, maternity and newborn care, special needs services or entertainment providers, visit BostonParentsPaper.com/listing.

6

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

Who wouldn’t want a doll dressed as their favorite Disney character? Madame Alexander’s Disney Villains Dolls are sure to delight, featuring intricate costumes that perfectly encapsulate the classic characters of Cruella de Vil, Maleficent and Snow White’s Evil Queen. At 10 inches tall, these dolls make a great complement to your little one’s Disney Halloween costume! Contest ends Oct. 31.

Your Child with Special Needs Our 2016 digital edition of Your Child with Special Needs is filled with information on how to help kids with special needs thrive at home and in school, inspirational stories from parents, the best ways to parent kids with AD/HD and valuable local resources and support groups. Available online at BostonParentsPaper.com – just click on Your Child with Special Needs in the “Magazines” tab.

7 More Ways to Stay Connected BLOG ✼ “Like” us on Facebook – facebook.com/BostonParentsPaper. ✼ Follow us on Twitter – @BostonParents. ✼ Follow us on Pinterest – pinterest.com/BosParentsPaper. ✼ Follow us on Instagram – instagram.com/BostonParentsPaper. ✼ Follow us on Tumblr – BostonParentsPaper.tumblr.com. ✼ Subscribe to our FREE enewsletter at BostonParentsPaper.com. ✼ Read our blog at BostonParentsPaper.com/blog.

GROW UP SMILING! TM

Learning Differently

®

COMMONWEALTH LEARNING CENTER TM

2016

TOP 5

TM

2016

We treat each and every patient as we would our own family!

Teaching Differently Succeeding

TUTORING & ASSESSMENTS z

TM

2015

TOP 5

WINNER

1 to 1 Instruction

WINNER

All Subjects

z

All Ages

Specializing in ADHD, Dyslexia, Executive Dysfunction, Language-Based and/or Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities

• Comprehensive dental care for children from infancy to adulthood • Specializing in patients with special needs • Accept most insurances • Conveniently open Saturdays • Focus on preventative care • Harvard trained and Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

(617) 472-5437 greaterbostonsmiles.com

• Expectant Parents' Classes • Baby Sign Language.

• Art • On-site LICSW 2016 • Acupuncture for 2015

TM

TM

WINNER

TM

the Whole Family

WINNER

WINNER

(617) 745-0050 www.gotomvpeds.com

Your destination for Pediatric Health & Dental Wellness is located at : 21 Totman St., Quincy, MA 02169

ARE YOU A HEALTHY NON-PREGNANT WOMAN? Have you had a normal pregnancy or a pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia or high blood pressure in the past 10 years?

You may qualify to participate in our research study.

Compensation up to $600 provided for completion of the study.

Needham ( 7 81 ) 4 4 4 - 519 3

Danver s ( 9 7 8 ) 774 - 0 0 9 4

commlearn.com

For more info: Call (617) 732-8538 or email jmdias@partners.org

EXCITING CAREER OPPORTUNITIES! Full time, per visit, and weekends available in the greater Boston areas.

Resource R esource Registered d N ) Nurse (Fl (Float): Support clinical team in meeting day to day patient care needs. May include admission, visits, and case management.

Community Health Nurses (Home Care RNs): Responsible for coordinating and providing high quality multidisciplinary home healthcare services for patients.

Licensed to practice in MA; Minimum 1 year in acute care setting or comparable work experience; home care experience preferred.

To learn more about VNA Care Network contact _ g Jennifer_MacFaden@vnacare.org call 781-247-0460.

October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

7

✼

editor’s note

TM

My Ode to October

T

The day before Halloween, all through my house There’s no one tiptoeing as quiet as a mouse.

There’s lots to be done as we prep for Monday For one of our favorite holidays.

639 Granite St., Suite 25 Braintree, MA 02184 boston.parentspaper@bostonparentspaper.com Tel: 617-522-1515 / Fax: 617-522-7121 Visit us online at BostonParentsPaper.com PUBLISHER Jean Greco

First up is shopping for delicious treats To share with the trick-or-treaters we expect to meet.

Chocolate, sugar and allergy-free And a few hidden confections just for me.

EDITORIAL Senior Editor: Cheryl Crosby Associate Editor: Kelly Bryant Calendar Editor: Jennifer Sammons Proofreader: Jeanne Washington Intern: Rebecca Schwartz

The costumes are prepped and ready to wear And a trial is done for how they’ll wear their hair.

The pumpkins are carved, faces ready to glow, Of a goblin and two owls on our patio.

ADVERTISING SALES Senior Account Executive: Lisa Braun Account Executive: Susan Hamilton

But Halloween isn’t the only happening in October Our Calendar is full of events to win your family over.

And if you’re looking for a thrilling scare or two Turn to Out & About for a spooky venue.

Inside this issue you will also find A story about how boys are being left behind.

We take a look at inequality in education A problem that’s affecting our entire nation.

NATIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Cate Sanderson 866-398-1825 x1 PRODUCTION Senior Graphic Designer: Angela Rosa Graphic Designer: Staci Stedman-Morris CIRCULATION & EVENTS COORDINATOR Caitlin Dougherty DOMINION PARENTING MEDIA A Division of Dominion Enterprises

So without further delay, please turn the page To find things to do with kids at every age.

We wish you a month of howling good fun And that this season is the best for everyone!

– Cheryl Crosby cheryl.crosby@bostonparentspaper.com

8

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

Boston Parents Paper (ISSN 1059-1710) is published monthly by Parenting, LLC., a division of Dominion Enterprises. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. Limit of one free copy per reader. Additional copies may be purchased for $5.00 per issue. Call 617-522-1515 to request additional copies. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the publisher. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis. Editorial submissions are welcome. Boston Parents Paper copyright 2016 by Dominion Enterprises. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

LOOKING FOR AN

Entertainer or Service?

Check out BostonParentsPaper.com!

Search our listings

by Keyword, Category and More!

OCTOBER COOP KIDS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Apples & Apple Picking

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Celebrate indigenous peoples day with stories and craft.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Fall Stories SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 at 11:00 AM STORYTIME & CRAFT Join us for a quiet storytime and craft featuring author Deborah Sosin and her book Charlotte and the Quiet Place.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 at 2:00 PM HALLOWEEN STORYTIME AND CRAFT With a visit from Pete The Cat costume character.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 at 1:00-3:00 PM THE COOP HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL! Games, crafts, pumpkin decorating, face painting and lots more fun. *Children 8 and under.

EVERY MONDAY AT 11:00 AM LITTLE FREE LIBRARY STORYTIME OUTDOOR STORYTIME Come enjoy hearing your favorite children's stories at Turner Fountain outside Harvard's Science Center.

Outdoor event is shine only.

& AT YOUR FINGERTIPS!

THE

FAST, CONVENIENT

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.

COOP H A R VA R D

1400 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 617-499-2000 www.TheCoop.com www.facebook.com/TheHarvardCoop

October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

9

✼

out & about

Get Your Spook On

H

HALLOWEEN IS CREEPING UP ON

us yet again and there’s no better place to entertain your little guys and ghouls this time of year than the Boston area. If you’re looking for some hauntingly fun events with different degrees of scare, visit one of these haunted attractions in Massachusetts – if you dare!

1 Barrett’s Haunted Mansion is a Halloween mainstay, promising all kinds of bewitching fun for those who love to be spooked. Part of its appeal is that no matter whether you’re inside the mansion or out, there’s always something lurking in the darkness.

Never let your guard down; Barrett’s Haunted Mansion will keep you on your toes at all times. Ages 13 and up. 1235 Bedford St., Abington, 781-871-4573; bhmansion.com.

2 Whether you are going on the haunted hayride or walking through any of the haunted Halloween scream parks at Witch’s Woods, you’ll never be alone … and we’re not talking about the other revelers who populate this spooky spot. In every shadow creepy creatures await, hoping to stir up thrills and chills as you approach. 79 Powers Road, Westford, 978-692-3033; witchswoods.com/the-woods.

3 Why, yes, you can also get spooked at sea! There will be no relaxing on the 90-minute Haunted Harbor Cruise, which hits the water during the month of October. The “crew” will tell you stories that will make your skin crawl, but don’t get too caught up in their tales; there are monsters walking about. 24 Congress St., Salem, 978-825-0001; mahicruises.com/haunted.

4 Haunted Halloween Nights at Hammond Castle is an annual tradition for those who are brave enough to explore the spine-tingling halls. This medieval castle was built between 1926 and 1929 for John Jays Hammond Jr. as a wedding present to his wife. Its rich history sets the scene for a bonechilling night. Tour the castle and the 24 rooms

10

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

that are said to be haunted during select October dates. 80 Hesperus Ave., Gloucester, 978-283-2080; hammondcastle.org.

5 Hop aboard the Harvest of Horror, a half-mile long hayride loaded with creatures looking for their next victims. At the end of the hayride, visitors are dropped along the entrance of the Haunted Forest where they are separated into small groups and forced to find the exit. Just beware of the haunting in the forest that will greet you on your way out. This is not for the faint of heart. 394 Old Meeting House, East Falmouth, 508-527-0189; harvestofhorrors.com.

6 Get your exercise in by embarking on a 90-minute walking tour led by Boston Ghost Tour.

Not only will you learn about the historic city of Boston, but you’ll hear some of the city’s most famous ghost tales. At the end of the walk, get the skinny on different secrets that are rumored to lay under the city. Boston Common, 617-605-3635; hauntedboston.com.

7 Factory of Terror promises to scare you out of your mind with five spooky attractions all in one place. It is all indoors and they advise thrill seekers to enter at their own risk. From the name alone, we’d advise littles stay home. 201 Grafton St., Worcester, 508-754-4077 and 33 Pearl St., Fall River, 508-324-1095; factoryofterror.com.

8 The Haunted Salem Magic Show will not only amaze, but terrify you at the same time. Enjoy this interactive 80-minute show during the month of October for a side of supernatural scare with your hocus pocus. St. Peter’s Church Hall, 24 Saint Peter’s St., Salem, 888-340-3584; salemmagicshowstore.com. ■

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!

ow Call N ree for a Fsult Con de Use co16 PPF

DOMESTIC PLACEMENTS Live In or Out Nannies • Housekeepers

Jolene Ross, Ph.D., Director

Licensed Psychologist | Over 30 Years of Experience

House Managers • Estate Managers

781.444.9115 • Needham

Couples • Mother’s Helpers

www.RetrainYourBrain.com

Special Needs • Chefs/Cooks

Kahal B’raira Humanistic Judaism in Greater Boston Since 1975

Eldercare • Drivers TM

Personal Assistants

2016 TOP 5

1-888-453-2277 www.casscompany.com placement@casscompany.com

Personal & Professional Service

PLEASE JOIN US. Visitors are invited to these upcoming events: Rosh Hashanah Services: October 2 & 3, 2016 Yom Kippur Services: October 11 & 12, 2016 Sunday services and educational programs.

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

Learn more:

www.communityofchoice.org 617-431-3994 Pre-K to s Bar/Bat Mitzvah 3TUDY s !DULT %D October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

11

family f.y.i.

65 That’s how many apples the average person eats in one year, which seems like a lot but considering the old adage is “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” we’re all falling about 300 short! Help your family fulfill their apple fix this fall by heading to one of our fabulous area apple picking farms. To help you map out which spot is best (and closest) to you, head over to our convenient list of places to pick at BostonParentsPaper.com/ applepicking. But, hey, leave a few apples for us!

Pasta Party In the month of October, Halloween tends to get all of the glory, but there’s another very important holiday we must bring to your attention.

World Pasta Day is October 25, and if you love carbs as much as we do, you’re going to want to participate. Shouldn’t be hard since more than 250 pasta shapes are commercially produced. So many options!

Costume Chaos Choosing a Halloween costume is a big deal to kids (and even many adults). In 2015, Google ranked costume searches for Harley Quinn and Star Wars as the top two most searched in the United States. We can’t wait to see who shows up at our door with trick-or-treat bags this year!

Fruit Fest Speaking of an apple a day, a recent study suggests you shouldn’t fight any fruit cravings while you’re pregnant; giving in to that temptation may actually make your baby smarter. University of Alberta researchers surveyed data of 688 children and discovered that an extra serving of fruit daily during pregnancy was linked to increased cognitive scores in the child a year after birth. Doctors warn that women shouldn’t take this to mean they can gorge on nature’s candy, but keep up with the government’s suggestion of one and a half to two cups of fruit each day.

12

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

Mouse House Normally we’d totally freak out if we spotted a mouse in our house, but this Halloween craft is just too cute to be scary.

This activity is perfect for children aged 5 to 8 years, with some help from an adult, of course. And it will look absolutely adorable sitting on your mantel or among your other autumnal decorations.

What You’ll Need: ✼ Pumpkins ✼ Pumpkin carving tool ✼ Twigs ✼ Dried leaves ✼ Hot glue gun or craft glue ✼ Faux mice Directions: 1. You don’t need to find the most perfectly round pumpkin, in fact, the more oddly shaped the better.

2. To make the houses, cut holes in the pumpkins for the door and windows using your carving tool. This is a job best fit for an adult, but let your child map out where they’d like the spaces to go with pencil or marker.

3. Break your twigs until they’re all similar in length, proportional to the holes. Glue twigs together to make the window frames, shutters, doors and ramps.

4. To attach the twig accessories, insert the twig ends into the pumpkins and glue to secure.

5. Scatter dried leaves around the base of each pumpkin house. Add your friendly woodland creatures to complete the scene.

Originally written for and posted on hallmark.com. For additional ideas and inspiration, visit ideas.hallmark.com.

Walk the Walk …

Safely When comparing all forms of transport, pedestrians are the most vulnerable on the road. Unintentional pedestrian injuries are the fifth leading cause of injury-related death in the United States for children ages 5 to 19. Teen pedestrians are more likely to be treated in hospitals for crash-related injuries than other age groups. Before your family heads out on foot, keep safety in mind. ✼ Use designated crosswalks or intersections. Obey traffic signals.

Follow signs even when no vehicle is in sight. It only takes seconds for a vehicle or bike to cause damage. If no traffic signal is available, stand clear of obstacles so drivers can see you, look both ways before crossing and make eye contact with motorists even when they’re stopped. Never assume that vehicles see you or will stop. ✼ It’s safest to walk on a sidewalk, but when unavailable, walk on the shoulder and face traffic. Carry a flashlight or wear retro-reflective clothing to increase your visibility.

Look for well-lit areas when walking at night. Children under 10 years developmentally always need to cross the street with an adult. ✼ Adults serve as role models for safety behaviors. Set a good example by putting your phone, headphones and devices down when walking around cars.

– Danielle Thurston, MSN, CPNP, Trauma Nurse Practitioner, Boston Children’s Hospital

Pie Face

Social Chatter

’Tis the season for pie baking and if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed at the thought of whipping up your own, consider this: The largest pumpkin pie on record was baked in 2005 and weighed 2,020 pounds!

Baking a traditional pie doesn’t seem so daunting now, does it? Visit BostonParentsPaper.com/pumpkins to find out our favorite pumpkin picking spots.

What’s your favorite fall family tradition?

Get Lost Nothing screams autumn quite like a corn maze and the Boston area is full of fun opportunities to get lost among these tricky paths. Your kids will squeal with delight at the opportunity to lead the way, bumping into dead ends and finally uncovering the way out. Scan this QR code or visit BostonParentsPaper. com/cornmazes for a list of our favorite mazes. Choose the one that’s right for your kiddo’s skill level.

Every year we host a pumpkin carving party and invite family and friends. Our guests bring their own pumpkins and we provide the rest.

We serve kale soup, cupcakes and candy. The best part is baking the seeds and enjoying them.

– Bonnie DiGregorio Anything pumpkin! The Frog Pond pumpkin float is always a treat.

– Diane Duggan Watching the Pats!

– Sheila Nunez Apple picking, making apple crisp, pumpkin picking with a hay ride and pumpkin carving.

– Charissa Berube Trick or treating in Salem.

– Danielle Brayak We love leaf peeping, a good corn maze and, of course, apple cider doughnuts!!

– Michelle Wehr

Give Back As parents we may find ourselves occasionally grumbling about the morning chaos of getting the kids to school, exorbitant amounts of homework or PTA meetings that seem to drag on forever. But what we have to stop and remember is how lucky we are to have the opportunity to give our kids an education, a luxury some children don’t have. Founded 11 years ago, Schools on Wheels of Massachusetts (SOWMA) sends afterschool tutors to work with kids in grades K through 12 at shelters, hotels and schools in the area, reaching more than 1,800 young people. They’re currently looking for more tutors and mentors to provide safe, positive instruction, sparing just an hour or two of their time on a weekly basis. If you’re interested, register for the online tutor orientation and resource training at sowma.org/get-involved/tutor-mentor/new-tutor-training.

Tutors/mentors need not have formal teaching experience and the impact you could have on a child’s life is priceless.

October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

13

✼

family f.y.i.

Award Winner Exciting news for Revere High School which received gold recognition and Boston Arts Academy which received silver recognition from the national Schools of Opportunity program. The national honor is an exclusive one, putting its focus on institutions that build upon student strengths and support learning opportunities for all students.

Applications for the award went through four levels of screenings by review teams that included everyone from researchers to policy makers. Great job!

Hail to Kale

Mowlificent Fowl

You may be sick of hearing about the so-called superfood by now, but like it or not, the first Wednesday in October (which falls on the 5th this year), is National Kale Day. The leafy green has taken the culinary world by storm over the past several years, but if you’re still trying to find ways to sneak it into your little one’s diet, try blending it into a fruit smoothie or homemade pasta sauce.

Who, who, whooooo has seen a cuter craft than this one? This project utilizes the gourds of the season and other assorted veggies in an absolutely playful way. A fun project for all ages (although the younger the child the more supervision and help they will need), you’ll have as much fun picking out the pumpkins and squash as you will cobbling the pieces together.

Halloween Hoopla PHOTO BY MICHAEL BLANCHARD

Students develop a deeper understanding of art concepts at Boston Arts Academy.

Considering everywhere you look a Halloween-centric store seems to pop up this time of year, the holiday means big business.

According to the National Retail Federation the average American spends $74.34 on decorations, candy, costumes and other goodies for Halloween. Spending on the ghoulish goods in 2015 topped $6.9 billion. That’s a lot of Snickers and Elsa costumes.

Ease Your Child’s Cold Naturally!

Let’s face it, when kids get colds they can be miserable. Try some of these natural coping strategies: ✼ Heat up the chicken soup. The warm liquid helps loosen mucus, making it easier to cough out. Hot water with lemon and hot lemonade with honey are some other options. ✼ Invest in super-soft tissues (perhaps even with moisturizer) for those times when nose-blowing is intense to prevent nostrils from getting raw and sore. ✼ Offer popsicles when swallowing liquids is difficult to ensure your child stays hydrated. ✼ Run a vaporizer in your child’s bedroom or have your child sit in the bathroom while running a hot shower. A warm washcloth over the nose and mouth can also be soothing. ✼ Distract your child from feeling sick with a quiet activity you like to do together. Being sick is scary for kids, and your presence gives them muchneeded security and comfort. But be sure to wash your hands often so you don’t go down for the count!

14

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

What You’ll Need: ✼ 1 small pumpkin and 1 large squash, cylindrically shaped ✼ 4 mini pumpkins ✼ Florist wire and snippers ✼ Baby carrot and small red pepper ✼ 4 jalapeno peppers or okra ✼ 4 large feathers ✼ 4 large pieces of ginger root ✼ Toothpicks ✼ Hammer, long nails and tree branch for display (optional) Directions: 1. Cut off the bottoms of the squash and pumpkin if necessary so they sit up straight and don’t topple over.

2. Attach mini pumpkins for the eyes using pieces of florist wire.

3. Cut the red pepper and baby carrot into beak shapes and attach with the florist wire.

4. Attach jalapeno or okra “horns” to the tops of the heads, and stick in the feathers at the sides of the bodies.

5. Using toothpicks, attach the ginger root to the bases of the owl bodies to make the talons.

6. For display, if you want to sit your owl pumpkins on a tree branch, as we did, hammer the nails at an angle through the backsides of the bodies into the branch to keep the owls steady and upright.

Originally written for and posted on hallmark.com. For additional ideas and inspiration, visit ideas.hallmark.com.

Upcoming at The Carle Meet award-winning authors Jon Klassen and Mo Willems!

We Found a Hat with Jon Klassen October 16, 1:00 pm Hold on to your hats for the conclusion of the celebrated trilogy by Caldecott Medalist Jon Klassen, who gives his deadpan finale a surprising new twist.

Book signing to follow.

Exclusive Preview with Mo Willems

WFT's 2016-2017 season has something for everyone!

Akeelah and the Bee Oct. 21 – Nov. 20, 2016 Billy Elliot the Musical Jan. 27 – Feb. 26, 2017 Charlotte's Web April 14 - May 14, 2017 Buy tickets for one or two shows or save BIG and become a season subscriber!

Register for Fall I (Oct 8 – Nov 5) and Fall II (Nov 12 – Dec 10) classes!

October 22, 10:00 am–3:00 pm (see website for schedule) Mo Willems reads from his new book, Nanette’s Baguette! Plus book signing, meet Elephant and Piggie, watch films, and create art! Reservations recommended for the reading: 413-559-6336.

Both events free with Museum Admission.

A Year with Frog and Toad, Photo by Randy Goodman

125 West Bay Road, Amherst, MA 01002 413.559.6300

www.carlemuseum.org

www.wheelockfamilytheatre.org Tickets: 617-879-2300 | Classes: 617-879-2252 PROFESSIONAL, AFFORDABLE THEATRE FOR EVERY GENERATION!

Even family trees need to be watered from time to time.

Whip down water slides, play our MagiQuest® adventure game, feel the joy at Scooops® Kid Spa, and open your imagination at Story Time before bed. All at America’s premier indoor water park resort.

Come see how it’s perfect for everyone in your pack. greatwolf.com/newengland

Everybody in. ®

October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

15

Boys Left

BEHIND Research shows that schools are failing our boys: Males are kicked out twice as often, less likely to graduate and are disproportionately the targets of violence. And it’s just not about academics.

Researchers and experts say boys need a whole new skill set to succeed.

By Malia Jacobson

B

“BOYS ARE HARD.” WHEN CHARLENE GRISIM WAS EXPECTING SON BRADY, NOW 7, she heard this over and over. She didn’t quite believe it, though, until she took a job as dean of students (an assistant principal of sorts) at a middle school a few years ago. There, the so-called gender gap became clear, but not in the way she’d expected. It wasn’t that most of the students called into her office for discipline problems were boys – the chairs in her office were evenly populated by boys and girls – but that nearly every time, boys were at a complete emotional loss, overwhelmed by tears, while the girls played it cool. Grisim was shocked.

“Girls held tough; they stood there and calmly talked it through,” she says. Boys were another story. Nine out of 10 times, the boy would cry. Not out of anger, she says; rather, the boy would be engulfed in a tide of feelings he’d worked hard to cover up all day long.

Most boys lacked the coping skills to self-regulate or the emotional vocabulary to express their versions of the story or the reasons behind their actions; the same skills girls engaged in school discipline were quick to employ to their advantage. So in the safety of Grisim’s office, out of sight of mocking peers, boys let their tears loose.

“I think it’s about holding in emotions,” Grisim says. “When someone pin-pokes it, it just spews.”

16

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

The Problem with School It’s no secret that girls fare better in school. The past decade has been good for girls in academics: As research and initiatives like the National Girls Collaborative Project help advance girls’ progress in science and technology, and programming geared to cut out “mean girl” bullying, support healthy body image and develop social-emotional intelligence abounds, girls are surging ahead.

The global “girl power” trend starts in kindergarten, and by the end of high school, more girls graduate than boys and girls make up 70 percent of high school valedictorians. And this pattern continues into higher ed. Globally, there are 93 men

per 100 women in universities. In the United States, women make up 60 percent of university graduates, earning 60 percent of master’s degrees and 52 percent of doctorate degrees in the United States.

Young women are entering wage-earning years with more education than their male peers: 38 percent of women ages 25 to 32 have at least a fouryear degree, compared to 31 percent of men. And today’s young women are living in a society that’s more supportive of their success than ever before.

In a 1993 Gallup poll, 63 percent of those polled felt that society favored men over women; by 2013 that number dropped to 45 percent.

A brighter future has emerged for girls. But in the wave of all this success, boys are lagging behind.

They score lower in literacy, communication and empathy, skills essential for classroom and workplace success, and they receive harsher and more frequent school discipline than girls. Although boys make up 54 percent of preschool enrollment, they represent 80 percent of preschoolers suspended. (Read our article BostonParentsPaper.com/expelled.) High school boys are suspended about twice as often as their female peers, despite data showing that girls and boys misbehave at similar rates.

boys aren’t born with and aren’t being taught, says psychotherapist Michelle P. Maidenberg, mom to three boys, 15, 11, and 9, and one girl, 6.

In today’s ultra-politically correct climate, it’s not popular to talk about innate biological differences between boys and girls. But differences exist, and when it comes to behavior and success in school, they matter, Maidenberg says. Research shows that in utero exposure to higher levels of testosterone is linked to slower maturation of parts of the temporal lobe, along with lower levels of empathy and lowerquality social relationships.

Girls routinely outperform boys when it comes to self-control and delayed gratification, skills that predict academic and career success. And girls’ frontal cortices mature more quickly than boys’, giving females an early edge in problem solving, planning, communication and relationship building.

“Boys and girls are taught similarly, even though they have different needs. This unfortunately puts boys at a disadvantage,” Maidenberg says. “Research shows that girls tend to be more goal-oriented and better in planning, following directions and organizing. Given the disparities, boys need appropriate skills to compensate for these challenges.”

Book-Smart Boys

Discipline Dilemma

While gender differences in education pop up from pre-K through college and beyond, the problem isn’t about book learning. Research suggests that the gender gap in education has little to do with academic deficiencies – academic test scores tend to favor males in some countries and at some grade levels, and females in others, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Case in point: Boys and girls score similarly in fourth-grade math; while girls pull ahead in literacy, boys fare better in science, particularly in high school.

Girls show more literary prowess, with higher scores in reading comprehension and verbal fluency, while boys outperform girls in spatial reasoning and spatial visualization. And boys and girls perform similarly on IQ and achievement tests.

In other words, academic differences between the sexes aren’t clear-cut or easily explained, and neither gender has an across-the-board advantage.

But it appears that boys aren’t falling behind in school because they can’t do the work.

So why are boys trailing? Because, experts say, the school environment seems uniquely designed to penalize boys for being, well, boys.

School success favors a particular skill set that

These non-cognitive skills are underemphasized in schools, according to a recent report by the Economic Policy Institute, despite their critical importance. It’s precisely these non-cognitive skills that may help girls stay out of trouble in school and bounce back more quickly when they are penalized.

Maidenberg’s oldest son, 15, points to genderbiased discipline differences at his high school. Girls don’t necessarily misbehave less often, but they don’t receive the same treatment. “He says girls are always being treated with special privileges, especially when it comes to ‘misbehaving’ in class.” Girls get warnings; boys get sent to the principal.

She recalls a discipline incident that stands out. Last year, she was called to pick up this same son from school. He was accused of destroying a school bulletin board and suspended for the day.

Video evidence later proved his innocence, but the experience was jarring for the boy, she says.

“The principal refused to listen to him. When he tried to explain, she asked him if he thought she was a liar. When I spoke to him about it, the first thing he said was, ‘If I were a girl, I wouldn’t have been treated like a criminal.’”

There’s a misperception that boys always require October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

17

Results that

“ Count There’s a German word, Heimat, which means

fondness for a place in which you feel you truly belong.

When I first heard that word, I immediately thought of Thayer.

Isaac Butler Thayer Academy Class of 2016

Isaac attended Thayer from grades 6-12 and studies creative writing & computer science at Washington University, St. Louis.

Meet more of our students at

www.thayer.org/seniorprofiles

18

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

harsh punishment, and that they won’t respond to other types of discipline, Maidenberg says. That’s false; a study from Hanover College suggests that both genders would fare better with inductive discipline – “positive discipline” tactics, such as treating kids with empathy, clearly explaining behavior guidelines and allowing natural consequences to take their course – instead of corrective, or punitive, discipline, such as suspension or losing privileges. Unfortunately, the study notes, schools rarely employ inductive discipline. Simply put: It’s faster to slap down a suspension than examine and address root causes of misbehavior.

Emotional Evolution In Masterminds & Wingmen: Helping Our Boys Cope with Schoolyard Power, Locker-Room Tests, Girlfriends, and the New Rules of Boy World (Harmony, 2013), New York Times best-selling author Rosalind Wiseman writes about the rich emotional world of boys – a topic that surprises parents of boys, she says. “Parents get these one-word responses from boys, ‘Yes,’ ‘No,’ ‘I’m fine,’ and think there’s nothing going on, that they’re emotionally stunted,” Wiseman says.

That couldn’t be further from the truth. Boys feel deeply; they get hurt, are humiliated and become caught up in social drama, too. Wiseman should know: As the mom of two boys, 12 and 14, she even found herself falling into the trap of misjudging boys’ communication cues. Too many parents and educators buy into the belief that girls are complex creatures with intricate emotional worlds, and that with boys, what you see is what you get.

“I think we take boys at face value too much, and we don’t give them credit for the fact that there might be a motivation for what they do, something we take for granted with girls,” Wiseman says. “We make these leaps that just aren’t true. Just because a boy is loud doesn’t mean he doesn’t feel things deeply.”

Parents downplay the differences between genders that might matter because we’re afraid to talk about them, but we’re also making differences where there are none, says Christine Organ, author of Open Boxes: The Gifts of Living a Full and Connected Life (220 Communications, 2014) and mom to two young boys.

In terms of depth of emotion, boys and girls are more alike than they are different, and yet boys are told to toughen up, be a man, rub some dirt in it, she says.

Her second-grader was recently devastated when a friend scoffed at his athletic ability. She resisted the urge to tell him to brush it off. “I needed to validate his sadness. His friend hurt his feelings. Sadness is normal in that situation.”

Organ did the right thing, according to licensed

family therapist Linnea Shapiro Fuchs of the Exceptional Children’s Foundation in California. “We need to help boys develop strategies for dealing with emotional states surrounding disappointments in school, achievement, relationships,” she notes. “They need to develop the ability to move forward after small failures.”

This ability to handle small relationship snafus becomes more vital during the teen years. Modern boys aren’t being taught the social and emotional skills they need to succeed in relationships, says Jo Langford, author of Spare Me ‘The Talk’!: A Guy’s Guide to Sex, Relationships, and Growing Up (Parent Map, 2015). Boys don’t know how to connect with someone they like, how to show interest, he says. “They don’t know anything about flirting. They know about sex, from Google and porn. It’s sexual but not really sex. That doesn’t teach them how to ask someone out, how to tell someone you’re interested.”

Discover

Thayer

Communication Crunch The key to ramping up boys’ non-cognitive and relationship skills is building strong relationships at home – which means getting him to talk to you. But parents typically go about this all wrong, Wiseman says.

“One of the biggest takeaways [of my work with boys] is that boys want their parents to stop interrogating them at the end of the day.” Trading “How was your day?

How was practice? How did the test go?” for a simple “Hi. I’m glad you’re here” works wonders, she says.

Connect, but give him space, she says. “Boys open up when they’re ready. Parents are amazed.”

Emotional connection is critical. But to truly champion boys’ success, educators and parents also need to rally around boosting boys’ literacy in the same way that science and mathematics are now emphasized for girls. In Bright Beginnings for Boys: Engaging Young Boys in Active Literacy (International Reading Association, 2008), authors Debby Zambo and William G. Brozo make a case for special supports for boys to help close the gender gap in literacy, a deficit that stretches from 5 percent in elementary school to 14 percent in high school.

Bridging this gap is critical to boys’ success, say Zambo and Brozo. They write: “In a world driven by information and knowledge, boys’ skill deficiencies will limit access to the full range of opportunities enjoyed by their more literate peers.”

Is pairing emotional literacy with actual literacy too lofty a goal? This writer hopes not. Fluent in both language and love, our boys will be poised to succeed. ■

JOIN US FOR OUR 2016

OPEN HOUSES UPPER

SCHOOL

GRADES 9-12

OCT 22

9:30 MA -12:00MP

MIDDLE

SCHOOL

GRADES 6-8

OCT 29

9:30 MA -12:00 MP

NO RSVP REQUIRED

www.thayer.org | 781.664.2221

745 Washington Street, Braintree, MA 02184 Malia Jacobson is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three.

Accessible by the Red Line (Braintree

Station)

October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

19

✼

family health

Food Rules for Young Athletes

By Kelly Bryant

A

ADDRESSING THE NUTRITIONAL

needs of your young athlete takes more than meets the eye.

We’ve all heard the threatening stereotype of the ravenous teenager whose superpower is the ability to clear out the contents of a refrigerator in a single afternoon. But as a modern society with a keener eye on portion control and overall nutrition, how much food is really necessary to supplement the needs of a child who is both growing and involved in extracurricular sports?

Case in point: My 6-year-old plays soccer and basketball. He’s a string bean of a kid who has been known to actually pass up sweets and other alluring snack foods when he says he isn’t hungry, but after a game or practice, the kid has the kind of appetite I wasn’t expecting until those aforementioned teen years. As a parent, it’s a major concern. When do you put the kibosh on what appears to be too much food and when do you know you’re giving your student athlete the nutrition they need to replenish?

As with so many things in life, the answer is more complicated than you think.

“Asking how many calories a young athlete needs may seem like a simple question, but a lot goes into estimating the needs of young athletes,” says Heather Mangieri, RSN and author of Fueling Young Athletes (Human Kinetics, 2016).

“Young athletes come in all shapes and sizes, and the intensity of duration of the sports that they play can vary drastically. Age, both chronological and developmental, gender and sports training, including intensity, frequency and duration, all must be considered when estimating the nutritional needs of young athletes. While one young athlete may only need an additional 150 calories to support the extra energy expenditure, a growing young athlete of another age, body type or sport intensity may need many more.”

20

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

Assessing Needs Approximately 36,000,000 kids between the ages of 5 and 18 play organized sports annually, a number we’d all like to see increase considering the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition reports that children now spend more than seven and a half hours a day in front of some type of screen, whether that be a computer, TV or gaming system. But physical activity and the benefits of playing on a team can be hampered if young athletes aren’t getting the nutrition they need to be healthy from the inside out.

Trying to decide if your child really needs that

FALL FUN extra snack after a practice or game can be daunting, but Mangieri breaks down some of the basics.

“Before kids enter puberty, nutritional needs can be much easier to estimate,” she says. “Once significant growth and development comes into factor, everything changes, including how many total calories they need to support their changing bodies.”

Mangieri recommends eating 1 to 3 hours before an activity, then having another well-balanced meal once the activity is over. She prefers putting the focus on meals as opposed to those quick, on-the-go snacks and treats that usually amount to empty calories and little to no nutritional value.

Essentially it’s best to look at a full day of food game plan than spot treating with quick fixes.

“The best advice for young athletes is to focus on their day-to-day nutritional plan first,” she says.

“Though it may seem as if what to eat right before and after activity is the most important, young athletes participating in a one-hour training or competition schedule will benefit the most from making sure they are well fed throughout the day.”

Preventing Injury Unfortunately sports and injuries go hand in hand.

The most precise and skilled of players is bound to find herself with an injury at some point in her youth sports career, but a well-balanced diet is a helpful tool in building a strong body that can bounce back from such bumps and bruises more easily.

“Day-to-day diet quality is the most important consideration because nutrient deficiencies do not happen overnight,” says Mangieri. “The best way to keep young athletes at the top of their game is to make sure they are eating balanced meals throughout the day, each day of the week. Eating the perfect pre-workout snack won’t do much for you if you have a nutrient deficiency from not eating a high quality diet day to day.”

This means focusing on foods containing nutrients to aid injury prevention, like carbohydrates and foods loaded with iron and vitamin B12 that fight fatigue associated with nutritional deficiencies.

“Young athletes need to make building a strong skeleton a priority as well,” she encourages. “Aim for 3 to 4 servings of dairy per day to meet calcium and vitamin D requirements. Dairy foods are also an easy way to reach protein, magnesium, potassium and other key nutrient requirements needed for bone health. I remind athletes often that an injured athlete is not going to perform their best. Building a strong skeletal and muscular system is a great defense against the damage, stress and potential physical attacks on their bodies.”

EVENTS AT THE ZOO October 6 – November 6

October 29 & 30

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular

Spooky Zoo

Presented by Citizens Bank NEW THIS YEAR!

Weekend tickets sold online-only.

Enjoy daytime family fun with half-price admission for costumed children ages 2-12 (RWP Zoo members and children 1 and younger are free).

Zoo-Cation Day Camps New for 2016, these one day camps will engage campers in a full day of activities based on the day’s theme!

October 10: Spy Academy November 8: Animal Engineers November 11: Zoo of Rock

EVENTS AT THE CAROUSEL VILLAGE October 22

November 26 & 27; December 3 & 4

UnBOOlievable Festival

Santa’s Village at the Carousel

Trick-or-treat at the Carousel Village, and enjoy an array of vendors, and food trucks.

Visit Santa during his first ever appearance at the Carousel Village.

Enjoy half-priced admission this January and February during Winter Wonder Days!

Explore the possibilities at rwpzoo.org

JULIAN

Needs a Family!

600 children hildren dr n iin n foster care, waiting for adoption. If yyou’re 21+, have a stable income, a and room in your heart, you may be just the right parent arent to a adopt this t th cch child, or another local child. You can be single, married, or partnered; LGBT; experienced or not; a renter or homeowner.

617-54-ADOPT www.MAREinc.org October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

21

Are you looking for a good school for your child?

PRIVATE SCHOOL FAIR Sunday, October 16, 2016 Time: 1:00-3:30 PM 2345 Commonwealth Ave. Newton, MA The School Fair is an opportunity for families and students at all grade levels to meet with representa ves from over 50 private schools, including day schools in the Boston area and boarding schools around New England.

781-843-8440 | www.aisne.org No prior registration required.

Your Child with

Special Needs

Power Up We’ve already stressed the importance of the big picture in terms of feeding your child what he or she needs to feel their best before and after a game, but there are certainly foods that are better than others in terms of powering up before and after exuding a ton of energy.

Just because your son runs track doesn’t mean a giant bowl of pasta is the only means to a super sprint.

“Carbohydrates are the body’s preferred fuel source for working muscles, but kids need protein and some fat as well,” says Mangieri. “What is consumed before practice or a game varies based on how much time the young athlete has to eat. The more time before practice, the more time the food has to digest. There is no perfect pre-practice snack, but just as with every meal or mini-meal, it should be looked to as a way to provide high-quality nutrition.”

She also notes that no one wants to feel full and weighed down prior to exercise, whether that be at a practice or game, so the ideal meal would be low in fat and fiber as those can slow digestion. When eating on the fly (which is never ideal), decrease the portion size of a meal to avoid sluggishness.

So the next time you’re confronted with a hungry face ready to eat everything that isn’t nailed down, consider what you’re reaching for from the fridge or cupboard before making it an offering. What goes into their bodies is an integral piece of the puzzle for building an ace athlete, and every meal counts. ■ Kelly Bryant is associate editor of Boston Parents Paper.

Online Now at

Fit Foods

BostonParentsPaper.com BostonParentsPaper.com Our Resource Guide for Parents and Professionals!

Providing articles, tips and resources on special needsrelated topics to help parents and professionals guide children of all abilities to grow to their full potential.

At a loss for what to provide your athlete with on practice and game days? It doesn’t have to be a lot of work. Keeping a few healthy staples on hand will not only provide them with the energy they need to give it their all on the field or court, but will also go a long way to promoting strong bones.

“If there is two to three hours before the practice, focus on eating a balanced meal. If the athlete has less time, decrease the portion size,” says Mangieri.

“These don’t look much different than the post exercise snack or mini meal, because they should not.” The following are some examples: ✼ ½ turkey sandwich with an orange. ✼ Yogurt with a few crushed almonds and dried fruits. ✼ Cereal with milk. ✼ Toast, bagel or English muffin with nut butter

and jelly.

Sponsored by: TM

22

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

FEDERATION FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

✼ ½ PB&J sandwich. ✼ 3-4 Fig Newtons or other small low-fat granola bar.

FARMS

Corn Maze

Russell Orchards

at Marini Farms

Open 7 days a week through October 31st!

Apples, pumpkins, cider, pies, cider donuts, and more!

143 Argilla Rd., off Routes 133 & 1A in Ipswich, MA Open daily, 9-6.

978-356-5366 • www.RussellOrchards.com

Let’s Go Apple Picking!

Punkin Chunkin FREE Demo

Apples & Pumpkins www.tougasfarm.com • 508-393-6406

October 8th 10am-3pm

(for hours and availability)

• New bakery • Parties/Scouts/ • Farm animals Corporate Events • Fully stocked farmstand • Field trips grown on the farm • Campfires parties Flashlight Nights: Fridays and Saturdays starting Sept. 23rd Punkin Chunkin: Oct. 8th Trick or Treat hayrides: Oct. 22nd, Rain date: Oct. 23rd

• Wagon Rides on Weekends • Children’s Play Area & Barnyard Animals

Visit our Farm Stand for Apples, Pies, Donuts, Ice Cream

TOUGAS

and more!

234 Ball St. Northboro, MA

School Tours: tougastours@gmail.com

FAMILY FARM

Ipswich MA • 978-238-9386 • www.marinifarm.com marinifarmcornmaze@yahoo.com

Find g great Fall Travel ideas in the

TRAVEL GUIDE NORTHEAST

online now at

BostonParentsPaper.com

7 acre corn maze

Open from Sept. 10th - Oct. 31st 9am-6pm

Connecticut • Maine • Massachusetts New Hampshire • Rhode Island • Vermont

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

90+ Epic Adventures with Kids • Year-Round Family Fun • Get More Value for Less • Can’t-Miss Roadside Attractions • Weekend Road Trips

Children’s Birthday Parties

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

TM

October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

23

ELECTRIFY YOUR PARTY WITH 50,000 VOLTS. DARE TO LIVE IN FULL COLOR. An unforgettable celebration awaits you at Blue Man Group, the spectacular collision of comedy, theater, rock concert and dance party that’s perfect for all ages. Book your group today to enjoy exclusive ticket rates, incredible add-on experiences, and so much more. Be part of the phenomenon that has captivated over 35 million people worldwide.

Mini Groups of 8+ CHARLES PLAYHOUSE 74 WARRENTON STREET BLUEMAN.COM/GROUPSALES 617.542.6700

calendar

october

By Jennifer Sammons

In Miniature Tiny houses may be all the rage these days, but you’ll get a glimpse of some really tiny ones at the Concord Museum’s latest exhibit, “The Art and Mystery of the Dollhouse.” On view will be a selection of doll’s homes from The Strong National Museum of Play and a local private collection, including one extremely rare example from 1695.

Kids can create their own dollhouse storylines as they play with a large modern dollhouse, or sign up for workshops where they’ll construct their own miniature furnishings.

The exhibit runs Oct. 14 through Jan. 15, 2017. ✼ The Art and Mystery of the Dollhouse, Concord Museum, 200 Lexington Road, Concord.

978-369-9763; concordmuseum.org.

PHOTO BY GAVIN ASHWORTH

A view into the 1720s English “Georgian House” dollhouse.

Want more events? Go online today!

Scan this QR Code to Find More Events at BostonParentsPaper.com October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

25

✼

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

1 Saturday ArtWeek Boston, various locations, Boston. A 10-day collection of creative experiences and behind-the-scenes looks at art around the city. Pricing varies, many activities free. Through Oct. 9. artweekboston.org.

Sammy Snail’s Puppet Pajama Party, 10:30am, The Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. World-class ventriloquist and puppeteer Lesley Smith brings Sammy Snail and friends to the stage. Adults, $10; youth, $8.

781-646-4849; regenttheatre.com.

The Midnight Zoo, 6-10pm, Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston. A new Halloween experience that takes visitors down a haunted moonlit trail full of fantastical creatures, created in partnership with Puppet Showplace Theater. Thursdays - Sundays through Oct. 30. $10-15.

617-541-5466; zoonewengland.org.

NORTH Topsfield Fair, hours vary, Topsfield Fairgrounds, 207 Boston St., Topsfield. A traditional agricultural fair featuring animals, a giant pumpkin contest, midway, parades, sand sculptures and more. Through Oct. 10. $11 and up. 978-887-5000; topsfieldfair.org.

Little Pumpkin Duathlon, 10am, Salem Willows, 167 Fort Ave., Salem. Kids 11 years old and under are welcome to compete in a unique run/bike/ run race in historic Salem. $25. 978-836-0271; bnseventmanagement.com.

SOUTH Fall Festival, 10am – 2pm, Weir River Farm, 227 East St., Hingham. Celebrate the harvest as you enjoy music, the animals and the fall bounty. $10; family, $30. 781-740-7233; ttor.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, $31; youth, $16. Weekends and Monday holidays through Oct. 23. 508-866-5391; kingrichardsfaire.net.

Pumpkins Aglow, 1-8pm, Edaville USA, 5 Pine St., Carver. Explore the garden of carved pumpkins and hay bale maze, trick or treat and enjoy the rides. Wear your costume! Thursdays - Sundays through Oct. 30. $29 and up.

508-866-8190; edaville.com.

WEST The Big E, 8am, Eastern States Exposition, 875 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. The largest fair in the Northeast returns with top-name entertainment, rides, animals and those amazing cream puffs. Through Oct. 2. Adults, $15; youth, $10. thebige.com/fair.

Apple Days, 9:30am – 5pm, Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. Tour the orchards, pick apples, try your

hand at cider-making and more. Free with admission.

800-733-1830; osv.org.

Heifer International’s Global Harvest Festival, 10am – 4pm, Overlook Farm, 216 Wachusett St., Rutland. Tour international homesteads, hear live music, press cider and meet the farm animals. $20 per car. 508-886-2221; heifer.org.

Hey Day, 11am – 5pm, Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton. Farm-related demos, children’s activities, hayrides and more. Adults, $10; youth, $8. 978-464-2712; massaudubon.org.

Digging for Evidence, 1pm, Jackson Homestead and Museum, 527 Washington St., Newton. Bring the whole family to dig for artifacts in a mock archaeological dig and learn to be a historical detective. $5-10. 617-796-1450; historicnewton.org.

Meet an Archaeologist, 1-3pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Suanna Crowley will lead future archaeologists on a tour of the discipline. Drop in.

978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

2 Sunday Roslindale Day Parade, 1pm, Adams Park to Fallon Field, Roslindale. Featuring marching bands, floats, community groups, costumed characters and more. FREE. 617-327-4886; roslindaleparade.com.

Honey Harvest, 1pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan. Learn about bees and honey and extract honey from the comb with a hand spinner. Registration required. Adults, $35; youth, $12. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org.

NORTH Family Day at the Bird Banding Station, 9:30am, Joppa Flats Education Center, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport. Watch scientists capture, examine and release migrant songbirds. Registration required. $6-10.

978-462-9998; massaudubon.org.

Professor Wunders’ School of Magic, 10am, Gallows Hill Museum Theater, 7 Lynde St., Salem. Meet a friendly wizard in a live, interactive stage show for families who want to enjoy Salem without being scared. Sundays through Oct. 30. $10. 978-825-0222; gallowshillsalem.com.

Howl-o-ween Parade, 1pm, Artist’s Row, Salem. Bring your well-behaved pet to a Halloween costume contest and parade. FREE. salemmainstreets.org.

WEST Homestead Hayfest, noon to 4pm, Jackson Homestead and Museum, 527 Washington St., Newton. A hands-on family festival celebrating 19th-century family life. Hand dye cloth, make butter, dip candles and more. FREE. 617-796-1450; historicnewton.org.

get listed Email: boston.calendar@bostonparentspaper.com Mail: What’s Happening, Boston Parents Paper, 639 Granite St., Suite 25, Braintree, MA 02184.

Fax: 617-522-7121 Include name of the event, time, address, short description, appropriate age range, fee,

26

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

Calendar Editor Jennifer Sammons

website and publishable phone number. We cannot guarantee publication. The deadline for the November issue is Oct. 1.

The deadline for the December issue is Nov. 1. If you miss our print deadline, submit your event directly to our searchable online calendar at BostonParentsPaper.com. Click on the “Post Your Own Event” link beneath the calendar on our homepage. Postings will appear on the Web approximately 24 hours after submission.

Grab a spot along the Charles River and get a glimpse of some of the world’s best rowers (including medalists fresh from the Rio Olympics!) at the Head of the Charles Regatta, Oct. 22-23.

3 Monday

4 Tuesday Nuts About Squirrels, 10am, Habitat Education Center, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. Join in on squirrelwatching and squirrel games. Registration required. $8.

617-489-5050; massaudubon.org.

SOUTH Insect Discovery and Monarch Tagging, 4pm, Allens Pond, 1280 Horseneck Road, Westport. Look for butterflies and other insects with an entomologist. Registration required. $8. 508-636-2437; massaudubon.org.

WEST Spoil Them with Stories, 11:15am, Concord Museum, 200 Lexington Road, Concord. Get a sneak peek at a children’s book that will be featured in this winter’s Family Trees exhibit. Free with admission. 978-369-9763; concordmuseum.org.

Sock Walk, 2:30pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Take a quick “sock walk” through the woods then see what wild seeds hitch a ride on your socks (socks provided). Free with admission. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

5 Wednesday NORTH Ghost Stories, 6pm, Blanchard Barn, Andover Historical Society, 97 Main St., Andover. Sit in on an evening of ghost stories in the Blanchard Barn. Registration required. $10.

978-475-2236; andoverhistorical.org.

6 Thursday Freedom Trail Lantern Tour, 7pm, ArtsBoston Bostix booth, 1 Faneuil Hall Square, Boston. Discover the Freedom Trail in a new light – after dark by lantern light. Thursdays and Saturdays through Oct. 29. $8-14. 617-357-8300; thefreedomtrail.org.

SOUTH Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, 6pm, Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, R.I. A nighttime display of 5,000 illuminated jack-o-lanterns, many of them professionally carved masterpieces. Through Nov. 6. $12-18. 401-785-3510; rwpzoo.org.

WEST Take Aparts, 2-4:30pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. A special “Throwback Thursday” edition of the popular program; tinker with typewriters and record players. Drop in. Free with admission.

978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

PHOTO BY SCOTT WOOLWINE

MFA Playdates, 10:15am, Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. Bring your toddler to enjoy story time and looking activities in the galleries. Theme: Bountiful Autumn. Free with admission. 617-267-9300; mfa.org.

7 Friday HONK! Festival, various locations, Cambridge and Somerville. A festival of activist brass street bands featuring several days of performances, dance parties, processions and a lantern parade. Through Oct. 9. FREE. honkfest.org.

8 Saturday Exhibit Opening: Launching a Legend, 9am – 6pm, USS Constitution Museum, Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown. Celebrate “Old Ironsides’” 219th birthday with hand-on exhibits and daily programs. Through Oct. 21. By donation. 617-426-1812; ussconstitutionmuseum.org.

Peabody Museum 150th Anniversary, noon to 4pm, Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology, 11 Divinity Ave., Cambridge. Enjoy birthday cake and live music and view some treasures rarely on exhibit. FREE. 617-496-1027; peabody.harvard.edu.

NORTH Imagination Movers, 11am, Topsfield Fairgrounds, 207 Boston St., Topsfield. The Movers have entertained more than a million fans with an irresistible live rock’n’roll spectacle. $15, in addition to fair admission ($15).

978-887-5000; topsfieldfair.org.

Fall Colors Paddle, 1pm, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield. Explore the river and its spectacular colors via a gentle paddle in canoes. Registration required. Adults, $18; youth, $16.

978-887-9264; massaudubon.org.

SOUTH Cranberry Harvest Celebration, 10am – 4pm, A.D. Makepeace Company, 158 Tihonet Road, Wareham. Get a peek at the cranberry harvest process as you enjoy music, food and kids activities. Adults, $10; children, free. 508322-4000; cranberryharvest.org.

Beach Ramble, 10am, Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, 1280 Horseneck Road, Westport. Explore many different habitats and their inhabitants on a short nature walk.

FREE. 508-636-2437; massaudubon.org.

Squirrels, They’re Nuts!, 10:30am, Stony Brook Wildlife

There’s Much More Online! Find more activities and events at BostonParentsPaper.com. Our online calendar is updated daily.

October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

27

✼

calendar Sanctuary, 108 North St., Norfolk.

Learn about squirrel adaptations and how they live their days through hikes and hands-on activities. $6. 508-528-3140; massaudubon.org.

Harvest Festival, 11am – 3pm, Verrill Farm, 11 Wheeler Road, Concord. An old fashioned fair with a petting zoo, pony rides, carnival games, music, hayrides and more. Benefits Emerson Hospital. FREE. 978-369-4494; verrillfarm.com.

WEST Indigenous Peoples’ Day, 9am – 4pm, Rocky Woods, Medfield. Take a peaceful hike and search for pieces of information about local Native people throughout your walk.

Kids adventure backpacks available. FREE. 978-356-4351; ttor.org.

PHOTO BY SCOTT WOOLWINE

WEST Harvest Festival, 10am – 4pm, Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Road, Harvard.

Learn about Native American peoples, local livestock and crops. Make seasonal crafts and sample some switchel. Free with admission. 978-456-3924; fruitlands.org.

NORTH Family Fun Day, 10am – 2pm, The Stevens-Coolidge Place, 137 Andover St., North Andover. Play lawn games, make crafts or go on a fall nature scavenger hunt.

FREE. 978-356-4351; ttor.org.

9 Sunday Hojalata Workshop, 11am, noon & 1pm, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Make your own tin creations, known in Mexico as hojalata. Free with admission. 617-426-6500; bostonkids.org.

NORTH Teddy Bear Picnic, 1pm, The Stevens-Coolidge Place, 137 Andover St., North Andover. Bring your bear and a blanket and join in story time, games and a picnic in the teddy bear garden. $10. 978-356-4351; ttor.org.

SOUTH Wind Rider Festival, 10am – 4pm, Blue Hills Trailside Museum, 1904 Canton Ave., Milton. Investigate owls, falcons, hawks and vultures with presentations, a scavenger hunt and activities. $8. 617-333-0690; massaudon.org.

Harvest Festival, 10am – 4pm, Chestnut Hill Farm, Chestnut Hill Road, Southborough. A day-long celebration of fall on the farm, with pumpkin carving and painting, goat milking, food, live music and more. $10; family, $25.

508-785-0339; ttor.org.

Harvest Dinner with the Pilgrims, 5:30pm, Plimoth Plantation, 137 Warren Ave., Plymouth. Discover the table manners and recipes of 1627 as you enjoy songs and dinner with Pilgrims. $35 and up, includes museum admission. 508-746-1622; plimoth.org.

10 Monday Columbus Day Fall Open House, 10am – 5pm, Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. The museum opens its doors to the public on this day of gallery browsing, musical performances, art making and family tours. FREE. 617-267-9300; mfa.org.

SteveSongs Family Concert, 10am, Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. PBS’ popular “Mr. Steve” performs his fun participatory songs and stories. $10-14.

781-646-4849; regenttheatre.com.

28

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

Columbus Day, noon to 5pm, The Old Manse, 269 Monument St., Concord.

Drop in for tours of the historic Old Manse, living history demonstrations, kids’ activities and live music. FREE for MA residents. 978-369-3909; ttor.org.

Get a dose of contemporary art as the Bakalar & Paine Galleries at MassArt open their doors to families for a free day of art making and activities on Oct. 22.

11 Tuesday SOUTH Little Naturalists, 9:30am, North River Wildlife Sanctuary, 2000 Main St., Marshfield. Learn about New England animals and how they live through walks, stories, songs and crafts. Theme: Bats. Registration required. $7.

781-837-9400; massaudubon.org.

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.

WEST Autumn Leaf Suncatchers, 2-4pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Collect colorful leaves and turn them into suncatchers. Free with admission.

978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

13 Thursday Movies at the Meeting House: Bostonians in Film, 7pm, Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St., Boston. A showcase of movies featuring stories by Boston writers. Tonight: Little Women. $8-10. 617-482-6439; osmh.org.

14 Friday Archaeology Fair, 9am – 2pm, Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston. Dozens of hands-on activities, live presentations and special programs celebrating archaeology. Free with admission. 617-723-2500; mos.org.

Imagination Playground, 3-8pm, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Children can create their own play spaces with Imagination Playground’s unique blue foam blocks. Free with admission.

617-426-6500; bostonkids.org.

SOUTH Pumpkin Carving, 4-7pm, Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary,

1417 Park St., Attleboro. Help carve pumpkins for Saturday’s Spooktacular at Attleboro Springs. Bring your own pumpkin. Registration required. FREE. 508-223-3060; massaudubon.org.

Paper Marbling, 1-3pm, Paul Revere House, 19 North Square, Boston. See how colonial craftsmen created eye-catching marbled papers. Free with admission.

617-523-2338; paulreverehouse.org.

WEST The Art and Mystery of the Dollhouse: After School Exhibition, 3-5pm, Concord Museum, 200 Lexington Road, Concord. Enjoy treats and hands-on activities about the new dollhouse exhibit. Free with admission.

978-369-9763; concordmuseum.org.

NORTH Flower Fairy Festival, 10am to noon, The StevensCoolidge Place, 137 Andover St., North Andover. Build fairy houses and wands, dance and hear stories as you say goodbye to the garden season. Youth, $15. 978-356-4351; ttor.org.

Frightful Fridays, 7 & 8:15pm, Gore Place, 52 Gore St., Waltham. The 1806 Gore mansion provides the perfect setting for an evening of spooky tales and haunted activities. Fridays through Oct. 28. $15. 781-894-2798; goreplace.org.

Opening Day Festival: Lunar Attraction, 10:30am – 3pm, Peabody Essex Museum, 161 Essex St., Salem. Dive into our fascination with the moon through art making, film, stories and a taste of astronaut ice cream. Free with admission. 978-745-9500; pem.org.

15 Saturday Boston Book Festival, 10am – 6pm, Copley Square, Boston. Readings and book-related activities for the whole family. FREE. 617-945-9552; bostonbookfest.org.

Wildlife Habitats, 10am, Habitat Education Center, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. Survey and monitor nest boxes and other wildlife habitats. Registration required. FREE. 617-489-5050; massaudubon.org.

Critter Day: Buzzing Bees, 11am – 1pm, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Meet a beekeeper, try on their gear and inspect their tools. Free with admission. 617-426-6500; bostonkids.org.

The Great Duck Migration, 5:30pm, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield. Observe hundreds of ducks as they rest and refuel in Bunker Meadows on their annual journey south. Adults, $9; youth, $7. 978-887-9264; massaudubon.org.

SOUTH Fall Foliage Sunset Hike, 4:30pm, Blue Hills Ski Area, 4001 Washington St., Canton. Take in the season’s finest colors from the region’s highest hill. Picnic at the top, then hike down by the lights of the ski area. FREE. 781-828-1805; friendsofthebluehills.org.

Halloween Spooktacular, 5-8pm, Attleboro Springs Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park St., Attleboro. Take a

SCHOOLS & CHILDCARE CENTERS

TM

2016

Language Immersion

WINNER

Open Houses 6:30-7:30 pm Brighton Oct. 19 South End Oct. 13 Porter Square Oct. 25 Needham Oct. 12 Kendall Sq. Oct. 20 West Newton Oct. 27 Jamaica Plain Revere St. Oct. 26

Give your child the gift of bilingual education!

Saturday morning Spanish classes in Porter Sq. location for children 3 - 8 years old.

Email: EnrollmentPVP@gmail.com Phone: 617-416-7763

www.MyBilingualPreschool.com October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

29

✼

calendar non-scary stroll along pumpkin lit trails and meet friendly costumed forest inhabitants along the way. Registration required. 508-223-3060; massaudubon.org.

WEST Harvest Fair, 10am – 5pm, Newton Center Green, Newton. A community festival with kids amusement rides and activities. FREE. 617-796-1540; newtoncommunitypride.org.

Super Cool Beans, 10:30am, Amazing Things Arts Center, 160 Hollis St., Framingham. A colorful gang of beans bring an interactive show for ages 2-8. Adults, $8; youth, $5.

508-405-2787; amazingthings.org.

16 Sunday musiConnects, 2-4pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan. Enjoy a concert and connect with nature on a trail walk. Registration required. FREE. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org.

NORTH Fall Foliage Fun Day, noon to 3pm, Ward Reservation, Andover. Make kites, take a guided hike and enjoy the autumn colors and view of Boston from the top of Holt Hill. $10 per car. 978-886-5297; ttor.org.

WEST Sukkot Festival on the Farm, 9:30am, Powisset Farm, 37 Powisset St., Dover. Build a Sukkah, help with the fall harvest, sing, tell stories, press cider and learn about this Jewish festival. Registration required. $5-8. 508-785-0339; ttor.org.

18 Tuesday Going to the Bridge, 10am, Habitat Education Center, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont. Explore the bridge at Turtle Pond as you look for things with wings and fins. For ages up until 5. Registration required. $8. 617-489-5050; massaudubon.org.

WEST Solving Mysteries Through Chemistry, 10am, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Celebrate National Chemistry Week by seeing what happens when you mix household ingredients. Free with admission.

978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

19 Wednesday WEST ARTfull Play, 10:30am, deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Road, Lincoln. Engage with art, stories, materials, nature and new friends during unique multi-sensory activities. Ages 2–5. Free with admission.

781-259-8355; decordova.org.

Pigs and Potatoes, 3:30pm, Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. Harvest potatoes, feed the pigs and make a potato treat of your own. Registration required. $16.50. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org.

20 Thursday

Harvest Fair, 10am – 5pm, Newton Center Green, Newton. Food trucks, rides, pumpkin decorating, a Green Expo and hundreds of vendors mark the second day of this community festival. FREE. 617-796-1540; newtoncommunitypride.org.

WEST Trucks, Tractors and Tools, 10am, Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. Meet farmers as you board a hayride and get a behind-the-scenes look at some mega machines. Registration required. $16.50. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org.

Family Concert and Food Allergy Expo, 1:30-3pm, Needham High School, 609 Webster St., Needham. Kyle Dine, songwriter, performer and food allergy educator, headlines this special event. FREE. 781-444-7778; asthmaandallergies.org.

Doggy Days: Howl-o-ween, 10am, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Abby the therapy dog needs help deciding on a Halloween costume. Great for kids who may be shy around dogs. Free with admission.

978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

HOT TIP

Pumpkin Paths

In the right hands, pumpkins can become works of art, as evidenced by the popularity of the Pumpkin Stroll. These events take you on a nighttime walk down a path lined with intricately carved jack o’lanterns, some simple, some so detailed you’ll wonder how many hours of work went into them.

While Providence’s Roger Williams Zoo and Worcester’s Ecotarium have held these events for years, this year Boston will get its own pumpkin path as RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns opens at the Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center. They promise 5,000 carved real, fresh pumpkins, including some at more than 100 pounds each! You’ll also get the chance to see the professional carvers in action at the Mini Carving Factory. Get tickets in advance, they won’t be sold at the door.

✼ Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, Oct. 6 – Nov. 6, 5:30-10:30pm, Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, R.I. A nighttime display of 5,000 illuminated jack-olanterns, many of them professionally carved masterpieces. $12-18. 401-785-3510; rwpzoo.org.

A Chinese dragon assembled from carved pumpkins at the RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns event.

30

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

✼ Great Pumpkin Fest, Oct. 22, 2-9pm, EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. More than a thousand carved pumpkins will be lit, plus enjoy trick-or-treating, free planetarium shows and more. $16. 508-929-2700; ecotarium.org.

PHOTO BY SCOTT WOOLWINE

✼ RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns, Oct. 27-30, varying times.

Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center, 200 Seaport Blvd., Boston. $22 and up. 516-252-3392; therise.org/ma.

SCHOOLS & CHILDCARE CENTERS

Little People’s Playhouse

OPEN HOUS E ΀Ϳ DP ΀ Î SP 6DWXUGD\ 2FWREHU ΠΈ ΠͿ΀΅

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

toddler through eighth grade

32 South Fairview Street ♌ W. Roxbury/Roslindale Line ♌ 617-323-2566 4019 Washington Street ♌ Roslindale/Jamaica Plain ♌ 617-323-6144

130 Pleasant Street, Lexington, MA 02421 WWW LEXMONTESSORI ORG s EXT

Saturday, October 22, 1:00 - 3:00 P.M. & Tuesday, December 6, 9:00 - 10:30 A.M.

Expanding Worlds, Opening Minds The Meadowbrook School of Weston is one of the nation’s premier independent JK-8 schools. Our bright, curious, and motivated students consistently rise to the academic challenges posed by our exceptional faculty. We provide children with a solid foundation for future success in a caring and joyful environment that reflects a 90-year tradition of excellence and a steadfast commitment to innovation.

781-894-1193 | www.meadowbrook-ma.org

Spruce Street Nursery School Joyous early learning for children ages 2 to 5 years

OPEN HOUSE for Parents & Children!

Saturday, October 29th • 9am-12pm

5 Avery Place Boston, MA 02111 Tel: 617-482-5252 admissions@sprucestreet.org Celebrating 20 years of Education Excellence

www.sprucestreet.org

OPEN HOUSE

T H U R S D A Y

OCTOBER 27 6:00PM

Call 617-254-3110 or visit www.stcps.org for details.

Partnering with BOSTON COLLEGE to provide a superior PreK through grade 8 education grounded in Catholic values.

2 5 ARLINGTON STREET, BRIGHTON, MA 02135 October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

31

✼

calendar Dollhouse Designers, 3-5pm, Concord Museum, 200 Lexington Road, Concord. Learn to make dollhouse furniture from everyday objects and explore the museum’s new dollhouse exhibit. Free with admission. 978-369-9763; concordmuseum.org.

21 Friday From the Top, 6 & 6:45pm, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. A live musical presentation by talented young classical musicians from NPR’s From the Top program. Free with admission. 617-426-6500; bostonkids.org.

NORTH Halloween Happenings, 6pm, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield. Take a guided walk along a Halloween trail lit by pumpkins and luminaries.

Meet evening creatures and warm up at the bonfire with treats. Registration required. $10. 978-887-9264; massaudubon.org.

SOUTH Pumpkin Fest 2016, 6:30pm, Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 108 North St, Norfolk. Bring your own pumpkin for carving, then take a moonlit stroll. Registration required. Adults, $11; youth, $8. 508-528-3140; massaudubon.org.

22 Saturday Head of the Charles Regatta, 8am – 5pm, various locations along the Charles River, Boston & Cambridge.

The world’s best crew teams head to the Charles for the ultimate rowing competition. View the race and explore the expo. FREE. 617-868-6200; hocr.org.

Gustafer Yellowgold’s Show, 10:30, The Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. An absurdly funny and touching multimedia concert of live songs, stories and animation. Adults, $10; youth, $8. 781-646-4849; regenttheatre.com.

National Chemistry Week Celebration, 11am – 4pm, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston.

Learn how to take fingerprints, analyze blood, use chromatography and more as you solve a “crime.” Free with admission. 617-426-6500; bostonkids.org.

Family Day, 11am – 4pm, Bakalar & Paine Galleries at MassArt, 621 Huntington Ave., Boston. Drop in for exhibition exploring and art-making, designed and guided

by MassArt students. FREE. 617-879-7333; massart.edu.

Spider Web Walk, 1pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan. Hit the trails to investigate spider habitats and make a spider identification book.

Registration suggested. Youth, $7. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org.

NORTH Boo at the Zoo, 11am – 3pm, Stone Zoo, 149 Pond St., Stoneham. Trick-or-treat among the animals, create creepy crafts, run a haunted maze, watch the animals interact with pumpkins and more. Free with admission.

781-438-5100; stonezoo.org.

WEST Food Day, 10am – 4pm, Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. Celebrate statewide Food Day by exploring the garden and learning about sustainable agriculture.

Free with admission. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org.

Great Pumpkin Fest, 2-9pm, EcoTarium, 222 Harrington

32

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

Way, Worcester. More than 1,000 carved pumpkins will be lit, plus enjoy trick-or-treating, entertainment and more. $16. 508-929-2700; ecotarium.org.

Fire Worship, 6pm, The Old Manse, 269 Monument St., Concord. Experience this 1770s house on a fall evening to imagine how cold and dark it was in the winter, then gather around a fire for s’mores. Adults, $10; youth, $5.

978-369-3909; ttor.org.

Halloween Night Hike and Hayride, 6pm, Wachusett Meadow, 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton. Experience the sounds of the night on a guided hike and hayride, then warm up at the bonfire. Adults, $9; youth, $5.

978-464-2712; massaudubon.org.

23 Sunday Fall Pumpkin Festival, time TBA, Boston Common Frog Pond, Boston. Bring your carved pumpkin to join the others on an illuminated float. Stay for treats, a parade, music and child-focused activities. FREE. 617-635-2120; bostonfrogpond.com.

Exhibit Opening: Da Vinci – The Genius, 9am – 5pm, Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston. Discover the legacy of Leonardo da Vinci in the most comprehensive exhibition on the Renaissance master to tour the world.

Free with admission. 617-723-2500; mos.org.

Magic Show, 10:30am, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. Join magician and juggler Scott Jameson for a hilarious and thrilling performance. Adults, $12; youth, $9. 617-734-2501; coolidge.org.

NORTH Down on the Farm: Fall Concert, 4pm, Appleton Farms, 219 County Road, Ipswich. Rust Never Sleeps will play a concert surrounded by lit pumpkins (bring yours!). Join the costume parade and meet the farm animals. $35 per car.

978-356-5728; ttor.org.

25 Tuesday WEST Leaf Prints, 2-4pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Create art with nature by collecting leaves to make painted prints. Free with admission. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

Owl-o-ween, 3:30pm, Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. Visit an owl, create owl masks and prowl about. Registration required. $15.50. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org.

Pumpkins at Powisset, 4pm, Powisset Farm, 37 Powisset St., Dover. A hands-on cooking class for kids, focusing on desserts – pumpkin whoopie pies! $25. 508-785-0339; ttor.org.

26 Wednesday Tots @ 10, 10am, Assembly Row, 300 Grand Union Blvd., Somerville. Meet at Baxter Park for a Halloween Show with Stacey Peasley. FREE. 617-684-1511; assemblyrow.com.

27 Thursday RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns, 6-9:30pm, Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center, 200 Seaport Blvd., Boston. See 5,000 hand-carved illuminated jack o’lanterns creatively arranged along a scenic walking path and set to a musical

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

Academic Excellence, Community & Diversity

EXCELLENCE WITH JOY

PreK (4 yrs) – Grade 8 Full and Half Day PreK options for children who turn 4 years old by September 15th

The Chestnut Hill School OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 6, 1:00-3:00 pm Beginners (Age 3) to Grade 6 • Co-Educational Financial Aid Program • Exceptional Secondary School Placement After-School Extended Day 428 Hammond Street, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467-1229 617.566.4394 • fax 617.738.6602

BRIMM R

Where students from Pre-Kindergarten to 12th grade are Inspired to Learn, Encouraged to Explore, Empowered to Lead

LEARN MORE AT OUR OPEN HOUSE Sunday, October 23

69 Grove Street, Watertown 02472 Easily Accessible from Boston and Surrounding Communities Please contact sdunn@atrium.org or call 617.923.4156 x125 • atrium.org

1880

W W W. TC H S . O R G

First Fall Open Houses for families with young children: • Sunday, October 30th - PreK - Grade 8 (2-4pm) • Sunday, November 6th - PreK, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade (1-3pm) with a Family Concert with Wayne Potash Please check our website for additional open houses and “A is for Atrium” monthly programs for preschoolers and parents

open house Saturday, November 5, 2016 from 1:30 to 4 PM

It’s all you need, all in one place.

• A mission and curriculum that reflect your values • Engaging project-based learning

Lower School: 1 pm Middle/Upper Schools: 2 pm

69 Middlesex Road | Chestnut Hill, MA 617-738-8695 | www.brimmer.org

• A thoughtfully planned extended day program • Specialists in art, music, dance, and physical education • A warm, welcoming community for students and families

Cambridge Friends School 5 Cadbury Road Cambridge, MA 02140 www.cfsmass.org 617.354.3880 RSVP to cfsadmission@cfsmass.org

October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

33

✼

calendar score. Advanced tickets required. Through Oct. 30. $22 and up. 516-252-3392; therise.org/ma.

creature for a Halloween twist on the Wild Walk. With treats and activities. Youth, $10. 781-740-7233; ttor.org.

SOUTH Carve a Pumpkin, 1-8:30pm, Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill Parkway, Sharon. Help carve pumpkins for the annual Halloween Prowl. Bring your own carving sets/knives. FREE. 781-784-5691; massaudubon.org.

Halloween Prowl, 5:30pm, Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill St., Sharon. Discover the history of Halloween from a Druid and then encounter costumed characters along a candle-lit trail. $9. Through Oct. 30.

781-784-5691; massaudubon.org.

Not Too Scary Ghostly Gathering & Pumpkin Roll, 4-7pm, Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, 2468B Washington St., Canton. Wear your costume and join a holiday tour of the estate and a pumpkin roll at 4:30pm. FREE. 508-636-4693; ttor.org.

WEST Ooey Gooey Pumpkin Science, 2-4:30pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. What does the inside of a pumpkin feel like? How many seeds are inside?

Explore these questions and more. Free with admission.

978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

WEST Spooky Science, 10am, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Use a little spooky science to create some strange substances like slime and oobleck. Free with admission. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

Haunted Attic Tours, 3, 5 & 7pm, The Old Manse, 269 Monument St., Concord. See the seldom-seen attic and hear spooky tales on a special tour. Costumes welcome.

Through Oct. 30. Adults, $10; youth, $5. 978-369-3909; ttor.org.

Tales of the Night, 6:30pm, Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln. Prowl the farm with curious creatures of the night on candlelit paths. Take a haunted hayride or a stroll on the story trail. Registration required. $15.

781-259-2200; massaudubon.org.

28 Friday NORTH Pumpkin Trail, 5pm, The Stevens-Coolidge Place, 137 Andover St., North Andover. Take a non-scary walk on a pumpkin-lit trail where nocturnal creatures will emerge to share stories. Reservations suggested. Adults, $10; youth, $5. 978-356-4351; ttor.org.

SOUTH Wild Walks - Halloween Style, 5pm, World’s End, Hingham. Bring your little ones dressed up as their favorite

SCHOOLS & CHILDCARE Frances Jacobson Early Childhood Center at TEMPLE ISRAEL of Boston Chosen by Boston Magazine as one of “The Hub’s Top Preschools” OPEN HOUSES • 7PM – 9PM Thur., Oct. 20, 2016 • Tue., Dec. 6, 2016 • Tue., Mar. 21, 2017 Accepting Applications 2016-2017 Toddler through Kindergarten.

Professionals with degrees in early education; average tenure of our staff is 12 years.

Innovative secular and Judaic curriculum.

Early morning drop-off & extended day options available.

5 minutes from Coolidge Corner 477 Longwood Ave., Boston | 617-566-3960 ext. 148 | lscott@tisrael.org | http://fjecc.org

BEACON HILL NURSERY SCHOOL

Celebrating our 61st year of Excellence in Early Childhood Education!

OPEN HOUSE Wed., Sept. 28 6:30-8:00pm • Welcome and Introduction @ 6:45pm Sat., Oct. 15 11:30-1:00pm • Welcome and Introduction @ 11:45am RSVP to admissions@bhns.net Adults Only

• Toddler through Kindergarten Programs • On-site Playspaces • State of the art classrooms • Morning, afternoon & extended day programs 74 Joy St., Boston, MA 02114

www.bhns.net • 617-227-0822 Accepting applications for the 2017/2018 school year

34

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

29 Saturday Haunted Halls, 9am – 5pm, Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston. Festivities include a dance party, costume contest, spooky scavenger hunt and Halloween versions of popular activities and presentations. Free with admission.

617-723-2500; mos.org.

Kid Convention, 10am – 3pm, Edward M. Kennedy Institute, 210 Morrissey Blvd., Boston. Create campaign posters, then vote on relevant issues and create your ideal presidential candidate. FREE. 617-740-7000; emkinstitute.org.

Zoo Howl, 11am – 3pm, Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston. Trick-or-treat among the animals, explore a haunted maze, watch the animals interact with pumpkins and more. Free with admission. 617-541-5466; franklinparkzoo.org.

Pumpkins, Pumpkins, Pumpkins, 1-3pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan. Carve a pumpkin, take part in pumpkin seed experiments and contests.

Registration required. $9 ($5/pumpkin or bring one).

617-983-8500; massaudubon.org.

Day of the Dead Celebration, 3pm, Villa Victoria, 85 W. Newton St., Boston. Boston pan-Latin ensemble Sol y Canto teams up with Veronica Robles and her

CLASSES & ENRICHMENT

HOT TIP

Awesome Artifacts

A hidden gem on the Harvard campus, the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology celebrates its 150th anniversary with a public open house Oct. 8.

Besides the live music and birthday cake, you’ll be able to view museum treasures rarely on exhibit, such as the FeeJee Mermaid (made famous by P.T. Barnum) and Lewis & Clark’s bear claw necklace. ✼ Peabody Museum 150th Anniversary, Oct. 8, noon to 4pm, Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology, 11 Divinity Ave., Cambridge. FREE. 617-496-1027; peabody.harvard.edu.

North American Indian totem poles are a visitor favorite at the Peabody Museum.

mariachi group for a special concert. FREE. 617-598-3225; celebrityseries.org.

PHOTO BY BARRY HETHERINGTON

SOUTH Garlic Festival, noon to 3pm, Holly Hill Farm, 236 Jerusalem Road, Cohasset. Learn how to grow your own garlic and taste some savory samples. FREE. 781-383-6565; hollyhillfarm.org.

Pumpkins in the Park, 1-7pm, Francis William Bird Park, Polley Lane, East Walpole. Help carve and decorate pumpkins from 1-3pm ($5 each), then return at 5pm for a pumpkin contest, games, stories and more. FREE. 508-668-6136; ttor.org.

Halloween at Hutch, 4-6pm, Governor Hutchinson’s Field,

CLASSES & ENRICHMENT Bay State Skating School LEARN TO SKATE CLASSES for Recreational • Figure • Hockey Skating Skills

As featured on “Chronicle”

48 Years Experience

Circle & Larz Anderson), Medford, Newton-Brighton, Quincy, Somerville, South Boston, Waltham, West Roxbury, Weymouth

Contact Molly Howard at 617-999-8794

Children (41/2 –18 years) & Adults

781-890-8480 • www.BayStateSkatingSchool.org Ballet classes: age 3 - teen, adult and pointe.

Register now for fall classes.

Schedules available at: www.freshpondballet.com Visit us on Facebook: facebook.com/FreshPondBallet Nina Alonso, Director, FPB 1798a Mass Ave. Cambridge, MA 02140 617.491.5865

Exxcel Gymnastics and Climbing Now Enrolling for Fall Programs Tumble, Turn & Learn!

Fall Vacation Camps:

Wednesdays & Fridays 9am to 12pm Ages 3 to 5 years

Columbus One Day Camp Veterans One Day Camp

Ongoing Class Enrollment

Where Kids Matter Most!

Gymnastics • Rock Climbing Cheerleading • Circus Arts 88 Wells Avenue • Newton • 617 244-3300 • www.exxcel.net

We bring the instrument and the instructor.

Private in-home lessons available

Cambridge, Brookline (Cleveland

pianoplaytime@yahoo.com www.pianoplaytime.com

IMPROVE YOUR GRADES FOR FALL! GET AHEAD IN MATH & READING. Join us as we play math games, read books and apply our studies to our daily lives.

Call in today to reserve a slot!

TM

32 South Fairview St. Roslindale, MA

2016 TOP 5

617-323-2566 SPACE AVAILABLE

The Math Club

REGISTER NOW FOR FALL

Inspiring preparation for the Mathematical Olympiad Contest and Applied Mathematics Challenge - 2017 for elementary and middle school students.

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

TM

2016 TOP 5

781-860-9012 • www.TheMathClub.com October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

35

✼

calendar Adams Street, Milton. Wear your costume and come ready to play Halloween games and meet costumed characters.

Bring your carved pumpkin to display. Adults, $5; youth, $3. 617-542-7696; ttor.org.

WEST Halloween Treats, 10am – 5pm, Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Road, Harvard. Decorate a spooky mask and trick or treat at the museum buildings. Kids, wear a costume for free admission! 978-456-3924; fruitlands.org.

30 Sunday

Peabody Museum, 11 Divinity Ave., Cambridge. Decorate sugar skulls, make papel picado (cut-paper banners) and hear live mariachi music as you remember and welcome back the spirits of loved ones. Free with admission; $5 per sugar skull. 617-496-1027; peabody.harvard.edu.

Pumpkins, Pumpkins, Pumpkins, 1-3pm, Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan. See Oct. 29 listing.

Boston Symphony Orchestra Concert for Very Young People, 1pm, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Designed to give children a chance to engage with high quality musical experiences. Free with admission.

617-426-6500; bostonkids.org.

Day of the Dead Family Celebration, noon to 4pm,

Curtain Call Here’s a roundup of this month’s productions at major theaters and performance centers. Check websites for times not listed below. For information on other productions, check our full calendar.

✼ Amazing Things Arts Center, 160 Hollis St., Arsenal Center for the Arts, 321 Arsenal St., Watertown. 800-838-3006; watertownchildrenstheatre.org.

Charlotte’s Web, Oct. 28-30, varying times.

Watertown Children’s Theatre’s ensemble cast of 3rd-5th graders presents E. B. White’s tale of a classic friendship between a spider and a pig. $12. ✼ Boston Children’s Theatre - The Larcom Theater, 13 Wallis St., Beverly. 617-424-6634; bostonchildrenstheatre.org.

Fancy Nancy the Musical, through Oct. 9, varying dates and times. A high-spirited musical based on the popular books by Jane O’Connor. $10 and up. ✼ Dunkin’ Donuts Center, 1 Lasalle Square, Providence, R.I. 401-331-0700; dunkindonutscenter.com.

Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream, Oct. 6-9, varying times. Mickey and Minnie share the heroic stories of four The Greatest Show on Earth takes over TD Garden Oct. 13-16 with its exciting lineup of amazing performers and exotic animals.

favorite Disney princesses. $15 and up. ✼ Emerson/Paramount Theatre, 559 Washington St., Boston. 617-824-8400; paramountboston.org.

James and the Giant Peach, Oct. 23, 2pm. Humansized insects, conniving aunts and a giant peach are just some of the wonders of Roald Dahl’s magical story. $20. ✼ The Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. 508-831-0800; thehanovertheatre.org.

Odd Squad Live!, Oct. 9, 2pm. PBS Kids’ math-loving squad of detectives bring their show to the stage as they solve problems, unravel clues and stop villains. $29 and up.

Also playing Oct. 8, 3pm, at Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 Merrimack St., Lowell. 978-454-2299; lowellauditorium.com.

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Oct. 13-16, varying times. This Tony Award- winning Broadway musical delights audiences with a lush production of the tale of a lost slipper. $39 and up. ✼ Norwood Theatre, 109 Central St., Norwood. 781-551-9000; norwoodstage.org.

Inside the Haunted House, Oct. 16, 2pm. An original story by the Gerwick Puppeteers about a boy and girl who dare to enter an abandoned mansion after dark. $10 and up. ✼ Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston. 617-266-1200; bso.org.

Peter and the Wolf, Oct. 29, noon. The Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra will play Prokofiev’s beloved piece in a concert designed especially for families. Adults, $20; youth, free. ✼ TD Garden, 100 Legends Way, Boston.

800-745-3000; tdgarden.com.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus XTREME, Oct. 13-16, varying times. Prepare to be astonished and amazed by artists who redefine the word extreme in their spectacular acts. $10 and up. ✼ Wheelock Family Theatre, 200 The Riverway, Boston. 617-879-2300; wheelockfamilytheatre.org.

COURTESY PHOTO

Akeelah and the Bee, Oct. 21 – Nov. 20, varying dates and times. Akeelah is an independent, 11-year-old girl with a razor-sharp mind and an aptitude for spelling. Ticket prices TBA.

36

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

SOUTH Boo Bash, 11am – 2pm, Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South St., Providence, R.I. Come in costume and have a blast with games, crafts and a mad scientist’s laboratory.

Free with admission. 401-273-5437; childrenmuseum.org.

WEST Last Minute Nature Costumes, 10:30am – 12:30pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Make a magic wand, nature crown or other Halloween costume using things found outdoors. Free with admission. 978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org.

Creepy Crawlies, 1pm, Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St., Natick. Get up close with tarantulas, amphibians, snakes and even some cool cockroaches.

Registration required. Adults, $15; youth, $9.

508-655-2296; massaudubon.org.

Sleepy Hollow-een Tour, 3:30pm, Concord Museum,

200 Lexington Road, Concord. Take a tour through Sleepy Hollow Cemetery with a Concord Museum historian as your guide. Registration required. $10. 978-369-9763; concordmuseum.org.

Haunted Hillside, 6-9pm, Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Road, Harvard. Follow the candle-lit paths and listen to tales of ghosts and spirits. Adults, $15; youth, $5. 978-456-3924; fruitlands.org.

31 Monday Halloween WEST Spooky Story Hour & Halloween Craft, 10am, Powisset Farm, 37 Powisset St., Dover. A spooky Halloween-themed story hour with a pumpkin craft project. Wear your costume! $5. 508-785-0339; ttor.org.

ENTERTAINMENT & PARTY NEEDS Have the Coolest Party Ever!

Host your next party in our New Decorating Kitchen

Online Ordering Available Now offering GLUTEN-FREE items

TM

Cakes, Cookies, Candies, Gift 2016 Baskets & All Your Party Needs!

1356 Beacon St., Brookline • 617-566-3330 0

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 reasonable rates

WINNER

Rosalita's Puppets www.rosalitaspuppets.com 617-633-2832

www.partyfavorsbrookline.com m

BIG JOE

FIND MORE ENTERTAINERS ONLINE AT:

the Storyteller Original & classic stories Props, puppets, & surprises Birthday Parties Schools Libraries Special Events

BostonParentsPaper.com/ entertainers

978-373-1300

www.bigjoe.com Parents Choice Award er ner nne inn Wi W Win

HUNTERS HAVEN FARM 104 King St., Groveland, MA

617-713-4349

HuntersHavenFarm.com

Fran Friedman

Simply p y Silly y Events www.sillysall ysa allys.c lys.com www.sillysallys.com

Children’s Musician & Instructor Birthday Parties, Schools, Concerts, Libraries

Magic • Puppets • Bubble Shows Balloon Designs • Decor Theme Parties • Catering Face Painting

Preschool & Elementary Music Specialist Lots of Participation & Fun for All! 508-358-1614 • www.franfriedman.com

Book Your Party Today! Call 617-639-5657

Make your next birthday party a

Hands-on • No-mess fun Ages 5-12!

781-899-6006 9--60 9 6006 06

Greaterboston.madscience.org G mad ma dscien en nc ce e.o org Mad Science Offers fers Exciting:

• • • •

LLeett’s’sy! t !

Pa arrty P

“Come Bounce Off Our Walls”

Open Bounce & Family Fun Birthday Parties Field Trip Programs Glow & Rock Star Parties

TM

2016 TOP 10

Peabody, MA 978-532-5868 BostonBounceParty.com

After-School Programs, Assemblies, Workshops, Birthday Parties, Reschool Programs, Special Events, Vacation & Summer Programs

October 2016 | BostonParentsPaper.com

37

the vault

Code Yellow

ILLUSTRATION BY GLYNN BRANNAN

✼

By Carol Band

I

I LIKE TO THINK THAT MY CHILDREN

inherited all of their good traits from my end of the gene pool and all of their annoying habits from my husband’s little puddle.

The way that each of my kids can raise one quizzical eyebrow, their love of Broadway show tunes and their aversion to Brussels sprouts – these fine characteristics are directly attributable to me. Their selective hearing, their messy rooms, the way they lose their winter coats before the first snow – these are flaws that must have been passed on by my husband’s faulty DNA. Sometimes the lineage is easy to trace – like the way my mother-in-law’s nose is smack in the middle of my daughter’s face. Other traits are harder to identify.

For instance, someone (on my husband’s side) is responsible for my youngest son’s tiny bladder.

We didn’t discover our son’s condition until he was out of diapers. That’s when he began repeating his mantra, “I gotta go.”

He has missed the thrilling conclusion of countless movies, the final inning of his Little League championship game and our family’s only actual dinnertime conversation all while answering nature’s call.

Because of this, I know the location of every public – and not so public – restroom in town. I know that at the supermarket you have to go past the meat department, through the swinging metal doors and down a flight of stairs into the basement. I know where the bathrooms are in the town hall, in the branch library and in the local church.

Together, my son and I have learned how to stride into a crowded restaurant and pretend that we are meeting friends. “Oh, I guess they’re not here yet,” I call out as I push him toward the washroom door.

We’ve even developed a code system to avert unnecessary panic. It’s like the nation’s terrorism alert, but we only have two colors – yellow and brown.

Last week, while we were picking up friends at the airport, Lewis announced a “Code Yellow.” So we headed to the men’s room.

38

Boston Parents Paper | October 2016

When he was a toddler, we went to the women’s room. He didn’t care that the symbol on the door wore a skirt. Now he’s at that awkward age. Too old for the ladies’ room and too young for me to feel comfortable sending him to the men’s room alone. He is acutely aware of the difference between Men’s and Women’s, Guys and Dolls, Bucks and Does, and Buoys and Gulls. He says he needs privacy. That leaves me waiting – hoping that I won’t be arrested for lurking around the men’s room door.

While I waited outside the airport restroom, a parade of shifty-looking characters filed in and out – old men, young men, gangsters, pro wrestlers … When the potential scenarios in my imagination began to spin out of control, I accosted a probable felon as he pushed out of the door: “Did you see a little boy in there?”

“Yeah,” he said. “He’s washing his hands.”

I leaned on the door and opened it just a crack.

“Lew! Are you almost done?” My voice echoed.

An old man emerged from one of the stalls.

“Sweetheart, did you call me?” he asked as he tucked his shirt into his trousers.

I apologized and let the door close.

Then the door swung open and the convict strolled out, followed by my son who was visibly excited.

“Mom!” he said, jumping up and down, “The sinks in there turn on all by themselves!” His face was radiant. “And ... the toilets flush when you stand up!”

He is sure that I will be impressed with his discovery. But I have a discovery of my own. Maybe my son doesn’t really have a tiny bladder after all.

Maybe he’s been exploring the physics of flushing, experimenting with hydropower and learning the mechanics of plumbing – in short, perhaps he is quenching his intellectual curiosity. And that’s something I like to think that he inherited from me. ■ Carol Band is a freelance writer and mother of three. Send her an email at carol@carolband.com. This article was previously published in the January 2005 issue of Boston Parents Paper.

Infants • Toddlers • Preschool Full Time

Part Time

ly r e v e B n i r e t n e C s g Cummin ! w o N g n i l l Enro ation. r more inform 8-6878 fo Call (617) 83

Kindercam in every classroom!

We have cameras in every classroom that parents can log onto throughout the day and watch their children at the center!

• Structured curriculum beginning at 15 months • All staff members are infant/child CPR and first-aid certified • Weekly visits from The Story Teller, Music Man, My First Yoga, The Tumble Bus, Happy Feet and Hoop It (kids basketball)

Owner-operated since 1994

Very competitive rates

www.thelearningzoneonline.com Woburn (781) 932-1070 23 Warren Ave.

Framingham (508) 872-3600 63 Fountain St.

Belmont (617) 489-1161 279 Belmont St.

Waltham (781) 891-3600 295 Weston St.

Weston (781) 642-6787 101 River Road

Beverly (978) 969-6679 600 Cummings Center

Fall Open House Monday, October 10, 2016 Enjoy a day of art making, gallery tours, dance, and music, including a performance by musicians from the Boston Pops.

FREE! 10 am – 5 pm

ART MUSIC FAMILY FUN

mfa.org/openhouse Sponsored by Ameriprise Financial