march 2020
newyorkfamily.com
Goodbye Plastic
The best reusable totes
The Bold and the Brave Activist
Jodie Patterson
contents
March 2020
NewYorkFamily.com
pg. 20
pg. 26
FEATURES 6 | Mom Hacks: Goodbye Plastic! The best reusable bags now that New York has banned single-use plastic bags 20 | Spring Clean Your Life Channel the power of springtime to give your whole life a makeover 26 | Jodie Patterson: Bold and Brave The author and activist talks about her experience parenting a trans child and her new book, The Bold World
Stories & columns 4 | Editor’s Note Hello Spring
pg. 30
pg. 28
Directories 10 | Charter School Guide 18 | Camps Directory
16 | Why Day Camp? How the experience of day camp can benefit your child
Family fun 28 | Calendar Unmissable events in the Bronx and beyond for March
on the Cover Photo: Yumi Matsuo | yumimatsuostudio.com Hair & Makeup: Corey Sanders | coreysandersmakeup.com Cover clothing on Jodie: Zara top, Ulla Johnson skirt
March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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Editor’s Note
NewYorkFamily.com Publisher: Hester Aba Executive Editor: Donna Duarte-Ladd Digital Editor: Katarina Avendaño Senior Adviser: Susan Weiss Digital Director: Erik Bliss Director, Business Development: Mary Ann Oklesson Partnership Managers: Erin Brof, Mary Cassidy, Shelli Goldberg-Peck Ad Ops Coordinator: Raphael Brutus Art Director: Leah Mitch Web Developer: Sylvan Migdal Graphic Designers: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti Nina Gallo Photography
Hello Spring When you live in a bustling city like New York, there is a noticeable shift with the arrival of spring. Off go the heavy coats, our walks home from the train are more enjoyable as the rays of sunlight rejuvenate us. Even spring flowers work their way through the cracks of the city’s sidewalk. With this season comes renewal and the recharging of our batteries and what better way to recharge than through stories of inspirational moms. Our cover mom this month, “The Bold Jodie Patterson” (page
26), teaches us about parenting with an open heart and the art of learning to adapt. Marie Kondo, anyone? If you’re like me and tackling a bit of spring cleaning in all facets of your life, then you need to read “Hello Spring! The Best Ways to Embrace the New Season in New York City” (page 20). Lastly, check out this month’s Family Fun (page 28) of events happening in and around the Bronx! Donna Ladd Executive Editor
Editorial Contributor: Mia Salas Editorial Interns: Isabelle Bousquette, Courtney Ingalls, Olga Uzunova
Contact Information
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President: Victoria Schneps-Yunis CEO: Joshua Schneps Group Publisher: Clifford Luster
New York Family has been recognized for editorial and design excellence by PMA. New York Family is published monthly by Queens Family Media, LLC.
get in touch Share your feedback and ideas about family life in the city! Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily
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NewYorkFamily.com | March 2020
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March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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mom hacks
The Best Reusable
Shopping Bags
The ban on single-use plastic bags is now in effect — here are our favorites for NYC life By IsaBelle Bousquette
I
t’s time to get your hands on some reusable shopping bags, New Yorkers! The statewide ban on single-use plastic bags went into effect on March 1st, 2020. Every retail establishment that pays a sales tax, from grocery to clothing stores, will be switching to paper bags. More likely than not, they’ll be charging 5 cents for those bags. So instead
Best Produce Bag: Net Zero Double Handle Cotton Net Market Tote Bag If you’re a frequent produce shopper, check out Net Zero’s Double Handle Cotton Net Market Tote Bag. The double strap design means this bag functions as a both handbag and over-the-shoulder bag for when it gets heavier. The straps are 100% cotton and are very durable. You can fill the bag with cans, and it still won’t break (although it won’t look as aesthetic as it does filled with fruit). The mesh style is not necessarily the best pick for comprehensive grocery shopping. However, it is perfect for a trip to the farmer’s market or a romantic stroll down the produce aisle! $18.99, netzerocompany. com
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NewYorkFamily.com | March 2020
of getting flustered at the checkout counter (should you just spring for the extra 5 cent bag or can you carry a carton of milk for five blocks?) come prepared with a reusable shopping bag! But with so many great reusable shopping bags out there, how do you find the one that’s right for you? For New Yorkers who walk everywhere (except the places they take the subway), portability
Best Collapsable Bag: BeeGreen Basic Reusable Grocery Bags The adorable patterns aren’t the best part of the BeeGreen Basic Reusable Grocery Bags (although they’re close). These bags fold up into a square pouch, meaning they’re easy to carry around in your purse or pocket. Then, when you’re ready to do your grocery shopping, unfold and fill them with as much as you can. The reinforced stitching means they’re able to carry up to 50 lbs! The BeeGreen bags are so compact, you can keep one with you at all times. That way, if you decide to make a spur of the moment stop at the supermarket, you’re always prepared.$14.55 for a pack of five, beegreenbags.com
and convenience are key. We want the bags that zip up and fit in our purses when we’re not using them. Bags that don’t tear from the hustle and bustle of NYC streets. Bags that say: “I’m prepared, I’m environmentally conscious, and yes, I’m a New Yorker.” With that in mind, we’ve rounded up a list of the best reusable shopping bags that, like you, are ready to take on the big city.
Best Fashionable Bag: Verloop Knits Gossamer Reversible Bag This bag from Verloop is made of gorgeous iridescent gossamer and comes in a rainbow of fun colors. It’ll catch the sunlight as easily as it’ll catch all your friends’ attention. It won’t necessarily hold as much as other reusable shopping bags, but what it lacks in volume, it makes up for in style. Straight from Verloop’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection, this is a bag that’s definitely high fashion. And, if you’re passionate about mindfully created, innovative products, it’s worth checking out the rest of Verloop’s line. Who knows? You might find a gorgeous gossamer scarf to match your reusable bag! $34, shop.verloopknits.com
Now Accepting Applications for Grades 5, 6, 7, 9 and 10 University Prep Public Schools This is the percent of students who graduate in four years from University Prep Charter High School—and 100% of our students are accepted to college. Apply to U Prep High School for September 2020 for grades 9 and 10 Apply to U Prep Middle School for September 2020 for grades 5, 6 and 7 Apply now at UPPublicSchools.org
UPPublicSchools.org
March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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mom hacks
Best Portable Bag: BagPodz Reusable Bags BagPodz is absolutely the best way to carry around a ton of reusable bags at the same time. While many reusable bags collapse into their own pouches, BagPodz conveniently hold up to ten reusable bags. When you hit the register, just keep taking out as many as you need to fit all your groceries. The pouch itself zips up and has a clip on the back so you can attach it to your shopping trolley (or your belt loop, if you prefer). BagPodz are also sustainably produced, making your shopping experience eco-friendly from start to finish. $34.95 for a pack of ten, bagpodz.com
Best Lightweight Bag: Standard Baggu The Standard Baggu is kind of like your bread and butter when it comes to reusable shopping bags. It’s super basic and lightweight. Why do we like it? Because it comes in endless fun colors and prints, from red tartan to the Charlie Brown squad. Why do we love it? Because it’s made of 40% recycled nylon sourced from pre-consumer waste. The Standard Baggu holds 2-3 shopping bags (or 50 lbs.) worth of stuff, but it also comes in a Baby Baggu size and a Big Baggu size. Then, it folds up into a mini 5’’ by 5’’ pouch, so you can keep it with you at all times! $12, baggu.com
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NewYorkFamily.com | March 2020
Best “Big Shop” Bag: Lotus Trolley Bags You won’t want to carry the Lotus Trolley Bags around with you every day, but they’re perfect for that once-a-week “big shop.” If you know you’re about to load up on groceries, then the Lotus Bags conveniently spread across the cart accordion-style in an innovative patented design. One bag is insulated, one comes with a special container for eggs, one with a special pocket for produce. (But if you’re looking for more produce pockets, check out the Lotus Produce Bags, which come in a set of nine!) When you’re ready to take your shopping out of the trolley, the rods slide out and you can pick up the bags from their side handles. The bags themselves are eco-friendly and machine washable. This purchase really takes convenience to a whole new level. $36.99 for pack of four, lotustrolleybag.com
Best Versatile Bag: Clevermade Snapbasket The Clevermade SnapBasket will serve you well in grocery shopping, but it’s also an investment for life. Use it as a gym bag, a laundry bag or even an overnight bag. The “snap” refers to the fact that it conveniently collapses into a flat slab, making it easy to store or pack away. This is definitely a bag that can carry a heavy load, with strong vegan leather handles and a capacity of 30 liters. And, if you’re using it as a purse, it has a built-in zipper pocket to store your valuables. $34.99, clevermade.com
Best Over-the-Shoulder Bag: Flip & Tumble 24/7 Bag The 24/7 bag is compact and colorful. If you’re looking for a bag that sits comfortably over your shoulder, this is the one. The felt patch underneath the strap makes it comfortable on your shoulder and keeps it from slipping. The 24/47 bag won’t carry as much weight as some other reusable bags (it holds up to 35 lbs), but it does roll up into an exceptionally small (3”) ball. The 24/7 bag could definitely become your go-to reusable shopping bag, and you can pick it up in every color, from coral to peacock, to match every outfit! $13, flipandtumble.com
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Developing Global Leaders of Innovation and Discovery
(718) (718) 993-7700 993-7700 EXT. EXT. 901 901
“As an innovator I want to find new ways to travel to the moon and stars!”
95 W 168th St., 10452 629 Courtlandt Ave., 10451 95 W 168th St., 10452 629 Courtlandt Ave., 10451 St., 10460 899 E 180th 3044 Hull Ave., 10467 899 E 180th St., 10460 3044 Hull Ave., 10467 560 Concord Ave., 10455 2331 University Ave., 10468 560 Concord Ave., 10455 2331 University Ave., 10468 690 Westchester Ave., 10455 690 Westchester Ave., 10455
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TRABAJAMOS COMMUNITY HEAD START A Child's Work is Play!
Bronx/Riverdale
family favorites TO P 5 2019
EDUCATION. NUTRITION. MENTAL HEALTH. - Bilingual - Available 5 days a week from 8am - 6pm all year ‘round - Breakfast, lunch and snack provided Inspired early childcare with a holistic approach to working with children and their families. Serving the community for over 52 years Site 1: Site 2: Site 3: 940 EAST 156TH ST., 1997 BATHGATE AVE., 2167 UNIVERSITY AVE., Bronx NY 10455 Bronx, NY 10457 Bronx NY 10468 718-893-1512 917-259-7081 917-962-9720 trabajamoscommunityheadstart.com
Magnet Mondays! Come visit on any Monday 9:00am - 2:00pm Ask about our amazing STEM partnerships and project-based learning!
For more info, give us a call at
718-239-7401
Linden Tree Elementary School Magnet School for Global Leaders of Innovation and Discovery
1560 Purdy Street Bronx, NY 10462
www.LindenTree567.com March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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charter schools Directory | Special Advertising Supplement
AECI 1 - NYC Charter High School for Architecture, Engineering & Construction Industries 838 Brook Ave., Bronx 646-400-5566 aecicharterhs.org AECI offers an academic program that provides students with a foundation of the necessary skills, knowledge and practical experience to pursue a path leading to college and/ or a career in architecture, engineering or construction industries. The school’s offerings are focused on providing rigorous college preparatory sequence of classes while also preparing students for success in industry-recognized exams. Staff members are tasked with developing the whole child by working together to ensure that all academic, emotional and social development is supported, cultivated and challenges.
AECI 2 - New York Charter High School for Computer Engineering & Innovation 424 E. 138th St., Bronx
646-741-7470 aeci2charter hs.org AECI2 is the AECI network’s second location in the South Bronx and serves students in grades 9-12. The mission of AECI2 is to create a rigorous college prep academic program providing students with a foundation of the necessary skills, knowledge and practical experience to pursue a path leading to college and/or a career in computer, engineering or innovation industries. AECI2 emphasizes science and math proficiency, effective communication and critical thinking skills through a standards-based curriculum while offering classes like Into to Computer Science Principles, Coding, Circuit Design and 3-D Printing. The school also has sports teams, afterschool activities and studentcentered clubs.
School (500 Courtlandt Ave, Bronx) Brilla Veritas (600 E 156th St., Bronx) Brilla Caritas & Brilla Pax (2336 Andrews Ave, Bronx) 347-273-8439, brillaschools. org Brilla Public Charter Schools, K-8 schools in the classical tradition, helps students to grow intellectually, socially and physically into young men and women of good character and spirit, and to be prepared for excellence in high school, college and beyond. Character development is just as important as academic outcomes, for that reason Brilla prioritizes a joyful environment and works in partnership with our families. Applications are rolling until all seats are filled. Call today.
Brilla Public Charter Schools
Bronx Excellence 1 (Elementary and Middle) - Parkchester 718-828-7301 Bronx Excellence 2 (Elementary) – Morris Park
Brilla College Prep Elementary (413 E 144th St., Bronx) Brilla College Prep Middle
Bronx Charter School for Excellence
718-892-1276 Bronx Excellence 3 (Elementary) & Bronx Excellence 4 (Elementary) – Wakefield 718-882-0231 & 347-773-3100 Bronx Excellence 5 (Elementary) – Bathgate 646-460-6356 excellencecommunityschools. org The Bronx Charter School for Excellence (BCSE) was established in 2004 as a K-5 public elementary school for children in the Parkchester section of the Bronx. By 2012 it was officially distinguished as a U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School, a prestigious honor awarded to public and private elementary, middle, and high schools based on academic excellence. Today, BCSE has expanded into a network of tuition-free, public charter schools. What sets these schools apart is a unique, project-based curriculum that not only nurtures students’ critical thinking, but also cultivates all facets of their development
BRILLA Public Charter Schools is accepting applications for the 2020-21 school year. BRILLA Public Charter Schools esta aceptando aplicaciones para el año escolar 2020-21.
P: (929) 422-0128, (347) 996-9712 • brillaschools.org • apply@brillaschools.org
JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE! ¡VENGA A NUESTRO EVENTO DE PUERTAS ABIERTAS!
March 14 | Marzo 14 10:00-11:00AM Brilla College Prep (413 E 144th St, Bronx, NY 10454) March 24 | Marzo 24 5:30-6:30PM Brilla Caritas & Brilla Pax (2331 University Heights, Bronx, NY 10468) 10
NewYorkFamily.com | March 2020
The New York City Charter High School for Computer Engineering & Innovation is now accepting applications for the upcoming school year. APPLY ONLINE FOR OUR APRIL 1, 2020 LOTTERY!
ATTENTION PARENTS! Are you looking for a high school that prepares students for college and careers in the computer industry? Here at AECI2, our culture is driven by our commitment to the school's Core Values: PERSEVERANCE • ACHIEVEMENT • INTEGRITY • RESPECT By popular demand, AECI opened a second location
communication, and critical thinking skills through
in the south Bronx. The second high school will
a standards- based curriculum that meets or exceeds
serve grades 9-12 and is a Computer Engineering &
the New York State Learning Standards. Our school
Innovation themed school. The student body at
includes sports teams, after school activities, and
AECI2 is culturally diverse with a population that is
student centered clubs. The school supports moral
70% Hispanic and 30% African American. Our
and character development while addressing every
school currently has a 95% attendance rate. In order
child’s social and emotional needs. For the school
to achieve its mission, the New York City Charter
year 2020, AECI2 will accept applications for
High School for Computer Engineering & Innovation is committed to providing a rigorous
incoming grades 9 and 10. Through collaboration with industry partners and
college preparatory learning environment. AECI2
post-secondary institutions, students gain work-based
emphasizes science and math proficiency, effective
experience and college exposure opportunities.
Come visit AECI2 during one of our Open House events: Saturday, March 21st, 10am to 2pm 423 East 138th Street, 7th floor Bronx, NY 10454 646-741-7470
http://aeci2charterhs.org Click on “Register” APPLY ONLINE OR AT THE MAIN OFFICE FOR OUR APRIL 1ST LOTTERY! March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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charter schools Directory | Special Advertising Supplement
ranging from intellectual, to artistic, to social, to emotional and ethical.
Capital Prep Bronx Charter School 775 Co Op City Blvd. Bronx NY 10475 info@capitalprepbronx.org Founded by Sean (“Diddy”) Combs and Dr. Steve Perry, Capital Preparatory Schools’ mission is to provide historically disadvantaged students with the College and career readiness skills needed to become responsible and engaged citizens for social justice. Capital Prep Bronx Charter School will be starting with 6th and 7th grade in August, adding a grade a year until they reach 12th grade. They will implement the Capital Prep model, and institute innovative strategies to enhance the strengths of each student. The school’s goal is to form a community of lifelong learners, community leaders, and agents of social change.
KIPP NYC Public Schools K-12 locations throughout Manhattan, Bronx/Riverdale & Brooklyn kippnyc.org enroll@kippnc.org 212-991-6100 Since 1995, we’ve been creating joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose from college, career, and beyond. Our students consistently outperform city and state proficiency rates for math and reading and our alumni beat the national rates for both high school and college graduation. Apply today at kippnyc.org/ enroll
Opportunity Charter School 240 W 113th St, New York, NY 10026 212-866-6137 www.ocsny.org Opportunity Charter School (OCS) welcomes all students in grades 6-12 regardless of background, or previous
academic success. The school places a strong focus on providing tailored individual and group instruction that helps to identify and develop each student’s respective strengths and weaknesses. Students are supported by highly trained staff who cultivate an engaging and comprehensive learning experience driven by a unique curriculum. OCS has a 90% graduation rate and provides college and career development. Students have access to ALL special education services, small class sizes, social and emotional supports, and much more. Contact the Admissions Office at 212.866.6137 for more information.
mission at Rosalyn Yalow is to eliminate the learning achievement gap for poor urban children -– including special needs students and English language learners – by using an engaging and demanding curriculum to graduate students at or above grade level in literacy and math. Recognizing the relationship between social emotional support and student achievement, the school uses a collaborative teaching approach – there is a lead teacher and one with a background in social work for grades K-2. The extended school day runs from 8am to 5pm and is filled with rich extracurricular activities like art, chess and fencing.
Rosalyn Yalow Charter School
University Prep Public Schools
3490 Third Ave. at 168th St., Bronx 347-708-7446 yalowcharter.org Kindergarten and first grade classes are taught on their own campus. The
UP High School: 600 St. Ann’s Ave., 4th Floor,Bronx UP Middle School: 470 Jackson Ave., 3rd Floor, Bronx 718-292-6543
IT’S A JOY TO LEARN AT
With families and communities we create joyful, academically excellent schools where students learn, grow, and choose their own path to college, career, and beyond! •
Accepting K-12 applications through April 1, 2020
• •
KIPP students beat the national rates for high school and college graduations. Every KIPP school is tuition-free. Find a KIPP school near you in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Harlem, and Washington Heights.
www.kippnyc.org/apply 12
SHNEPS 1/2.indd 1 NewYorkFamily.com
| March 2020
2/25/20 3:04 PM
ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE 2020-2021 Come preview our school environment and tour the building to see our innovative programs for incoming freshmen students.
Saturday, March 14th • 10am-1pm (March 21st in bad weather)
• Students are exposed to the careers of architecture, engineering, and construction while taking college preparatory courses. • Our partnerships which colleges such as Syracuse University and Metropolitan College of New York expose students to college level coursework starting in their junior year of high school. • AECI has a yearly graduation rate of 96% with many of our graduates attending top 4-year colleges such as NYU and Colgate University. • Students are highly encouraged to participate in clubs, sports, and internships to build their collaborative skills and enhance their resumes.
EVENTO ANNUAL DE PUERTAS ABIERTAS 2020-2021 Sabado 14 de marzo • 10am-1pm (14 de marzo con mal tiempo)
• Los estudiantes estan expuestos a las carreras de arquitectura, ingenieria y construccion mientras toman cursos preparatorios para la universidad. • Nuestras asociaciones con universidadas como Syracuse University y Metropolitan College of New York expone a los estudiantes a cursos de nivel universitario a partir de su tercer ano de secundaria. • AECI tiene una tasa de graduacion anual del 96% con muchos de nuestros graduados que asisten a las mejores universidades de 4 anos, como NYU y Colgate University. • Los estudiantes son altamente alentados a participar en clubes, deportes, y pasantias para desarrollar sus habilidades de colaboracion y mejorar sus curriculums.
March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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charter schools Directory | Special Advertising Supplement
OPPORTUNITY CHARTER SCHOOL
March Open House Dates* Wed, March 18, 2020, 5:30pm
Sat, March 21, 2020, 11:00am
FACTS 90% of seniors with IEPs graduated in 2019 Social Worker for each grade Related services provided 12:1 and 15:1 in ELA and Math ICT Classes
APPLY NOW!
Small Class Size
www.ocsny.org/admissions
Two Teachers in a Class
Grades 6-12
Regents Prep Classes AP Classes
*Bring this AD to the Open House for a free gift 240 W. 113TH STREET, NY, NY // (212) 866-6137
Culinary Arts Program Microsoft Office Certification
For more information on about our school, admissions, and the application please visit our department website:
www.ocsny.org/admissions
uppublicSchools.org hsadmissions@ UPpublicschools.org University Prep Charter High School (UPCHS) is among the highest performing High Schools in the Bronx. UPCHS is a free, public, 9-12, college-preparatory school serving 440 students in the Mott Haven neighborhood of the South Bronx. They boast an average 99% four-year graduation rate, 100% college acceptance rate, and a 98% parent approval rating. UPCHS is a proud recipient of the 2016 National Blue Ribbon Award and is consistently ranked among the top performing high schools in New York State. High School Open Houses will be held on: January 29, February 25, March 12, March 23. University Prep has expanded their locus of impact to grades 5-8 with the opening of University Prep Middle School last fall. Middle School Open Houses will be held: January 30th, February 26, March 11, March 23.
Zeta Bronx 1 Elementary 222 Alexander Ave., Bronx 646-897-4643 zetaschools.org/apply Zeta Schools are highperforming, next-generation schools with an innovative, whole-child approach, preparing children for a modern world economy. Starting with a foundation of world-class academics, their complementary social-emotional program emboldens students with the skills to thrive. It is extraordinarily important that children have the time and space to explore potential interests and passions. That’s why at Zeta, students engage in Specialist Classes as part of the school day, which may include chess, music, art, sports, and Taekwondo. Now, until April 1, Zeta is accepting applications for pre-K through 5th grade for the 2020-21 school year.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter: Opportunity Charter School
The Rosalyn Yalow Charter School
The Rosalyn Yalow Charter School
A Modern ClAssiC GrAde sChool
unA esCuelA ClAsiCA ModernA
2020-2021 School Year
Ano Escolar 2020-2021
Kindergarten/1 Grade Campus!
Kindergarten/1st Grade en nuestro campus!
3490 Third Ave., at 168th st., Bronx
3490 Third Ave., at 168th st., Bronx
347-708-7446
347-708-7446
ApplY TodAY
ApplY TodAY
yalowcharter.org/apply
yalowcharter.org/apply
st
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NewYorkFamily.com | March 2020
THEIR BRILLIANT FUTURE STARTS HERE.
With a focus on rigorous, hands-on academics, wellness, innovation and family service, Zeta Schools prepare students to be leaders and problem solvers in a modern world.
APPLY NOW – zetaschools.org/applynow Excellent, free public elementary schools in your neighborhood
March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
15
whole group cheers them on because the whole purpose of the game being played at camp is to be part of a team and work together to succeed.” Making friends Duffy says that camp is one of the best places to form friendships. “Children are together all day and enjoying fun activities. They sing songs, swim, talk over lunch and play games and sports together in a relaxed environment that feels very different than school.”
Why Day Camp?
Great reasons why these camps are beneficial for your child BY JESS MICHAELS
C
onsidering day camp for your child? Day camp is often your child’s first steps towards independence and can help your child develop important life skills and interests that will last a lifetime. Not to mention day camp is just FUN! From swimming to arts & crafts to special event days, camp packs a whole lot of excitement into just a few weeks over the summer. Check out these great reasons why day camp can be so beneficial for your child. Independence Being away from you, even if just for the day at camp, allows your child to work on skills without your assistance and to explore their interests all by themselves. As a result, children gain confidence that they can do things on their own. Katie Duffy, Director of Camps for Asphalt Green in Manhattan says, “From taking the bus to and from camp to getting changed for swimming independently without the help of mom and dad, campers are practicing independence daily and feeling good that they have conquered something on their own.” Communication With children spending hours each day engaged in screen-based activities, it’s no surprise that children have lost the art of
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NewYorkFamily.com | March 2020
communicating face to face and being able to recognize the emotions of others. Gordon Josey, Director of Breezemont Day Camp in Armonk, NY comments, “I believe that camp 20 or 30 years ago was nice to do but wasn’t as necessary as it is today. Camp is a place for children to disconnect—where children can just talk and laugh with each other, practicing face to face communication. You can be smartest kid in school but if you don’t know how to communicate and listen to others, you aren’t necessarily going to be successful in the 21st century.” Community Camp is an intentional community that your child is instantly welcomed into. Campers and staff share rituals and traditions unique to the camp which helps everyone become part of a tight knit and supportive community. “We have a dedicated group of people who work full time as camp professionals and only think about camp. It’s how we are able to create the culture and community we have,” says Josey. Gordon explains that camp is about team building and creating a safe place for children to try something new or hone skills they have already been working on. “Whether it’s a child who plays baseball during the school year and just hit a home run or the child who struggles athletically but just hit the ball off the T in T ball, the
Play The American Academy of Pediatrics states the importance of play in promoting healthy child development and believes it allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity and physical and cognitive, and emotional strength. “Unfortunately, today’s children no longer play,” comments Josey. “Whether it’s because of social media and video games or we as parents no longer let kids just go outside and knock on a neighbor’s door to play, camp is where a child can play the way we played as children. Expert instruction Want your child to get quality sports instruction this summer? Many day camps offer expert sports instruction while also allowing your camper to participate in traditional camp activities like arts & crafts and archery. “One of the best parts of camp is that children are exposed to so many different sports and activities, which allows kids to realize what they like,” says Josey. “Along with traditional camp activities, we offer expert instruction for our sports with a tennis professional teaching tennis and a NCAA Basketball pro teaching basketball, so if you are looking for quality sports instruction, it can be found at day camp.” Confidence School is great for learning math, reading and writing, but not every student walks away from the school day feeling confident. What’s so great about camp is that there are no tests or scores— only activities designed to help children build confidence. “Confidence comes in different ways at camp. When a camper performs in the camp talent show and gets a loud round of applause or when a child sets the goal to move up a swim level and then achieves it, they are gaining confidence and walking away feeling good about themselves,” says Duffy.
SUMMER 2020 MINI CAMP DAY CAMP
A SUMMER LIKE NO OTHER FC
A M P S .C
RISING 3 –9 RD
S
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ES
SPECIALTY MAJOR & TECHNOLOGY CAMPS
SENIOR CAMP
UR
OPE
USE & T
SEE DATES AND RSVP ONLINE
RISING 1 ST–9 TH GRADES
RISING PRESCHOOL–2ND GRADES
O
HO
SPORTSLAB
TH
GRADES
RISING K–9 TH GRADES
OM
2 PREMIER LOCATIONS AT: GREENWICH CATHOLIC SCHOOL 471 NORTH STREET GREENWICH, CT 06830
JUNE 15-AUGUST 21
RIVERDALE COUNTRY SCHOOL 5250 FIELDSTON ROAD BRONX, NY 10471
JUNE 15-AUGUST 14 TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE
TENNIS CAMP
RISING 1 ST–10 TH GRADES
HORSEBACK RIDING CAMP* RISING 3RD–8TH GRADES *ONLY AVAILABLE IN GREENWICH
ENROLL TODAY AT ESFCAMPS.COM • 800. 529.CAMP (2267) O F F E R IN G S VA RY BY LOCAT I O N
Your kids will have a BLAST at New Settlement this spring & summer! GROUP SWIM Registration starts: 4/6 member, 4/8 non-member
NATACION EN GRUPO Inscripciones empizan: 4/6 miembro, 4/8 no-miembro
MIXED MARTIAL ARTS Registration starts: 4/6 member, 4/8 non-member
ARTES MARCIALES MIXTAS Inscripciones empizan: 4/6 miembro, 4/8 no-miembro
YOUTH TECHNOLOGY Registration starts: 4/6 member, 4/8 non-member
CLASES DE TECNOLOGIA JUNVENIL Inscripciones empizan: 4/6 miembro, 4/8 no-miembro
ALVIN AILEY DANCE Registration starts: 5/4 member, 5/6 non-member
ALVIN AILEY BAILAR Inscripciones empizan: 5/4 miembro, 5/6 no-miembro
MUSIC Registration starts: 5/4 member, 5/6 non-member
MUSICA Inscripciones empizan: 5/4 miembro, 5/6 no-miembro
March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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camp Directory | Special Advertising Supplement
Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning Summer Camp1720 Crotona Ave., Bronx, NY 718-247-7420 caryleedstennis.com caryleedsinfo@nyjtl.org Led by seven-time Grand Slam Champion and Executive Director Liezel Huber, the Cary Leeds Center for Tennis and Learning offers Summer Camp from June to August for juniors ages 5 to 18 years old. All levels are welcome from beginners in the development level program to advanced players in the competition level program. Players train to develop necessary tennis technique, improve consistency and create basic patterns of play for effective point construction. Round-trip transportation is available.
ESF Camps & Experiences Riverdale Country School 5250 Fieldston Road, Bronx, NY 718-432-1013 Greenwich Catholic School 471 North St., Greenwich, Conn 203-869-4444 esfcamps.com At ESF Summer Camps, everyone is free to explore their curiosity and power their potential. Through best-in-class curriculum, boys and girls, ages 3-15, ignite their interests and
prepare for bright futures in any field – whether it’s sports, science, technology, the arts or all of the above. Our exciting line-up of programs for 2020 includes 60+ award-winning activities, uniquely designed to encourage exploration and personal growth. Two locations at Greenwich Academy in Greenwich, CT and Riverdale Country School in Bronx, NY. Check out our Open House dates and RSVP Online.
Saint Barnabas High School’s Summer Enrichment Academy 425 East 240th Street 718-325-8800 aosorio@stbarnabashigh.com stbarnabashigh.com Saint Barnabas High School’s Summer Enrichment Academy (SEA) is a 3-week program for girls in grades six through eight that will run from June 30th July17th, 2020. The morning is dedicated to improving Math, English and Reading skills while also preparing for the TACHS Exam required for entrance into Catholic high schools. Students will also be introduced to Latin, Greek and Robotics and will participate in sports and other enriching activities.
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NewYorkFamily.com | March 2020
STEAM into SCA St. Catherine’s Academy 2250 Williamsbridge Road, Bronx, NY 718-882-2882 scahs.org/steam/ STEAM into SCA is a fourweek summer program that combines academic coursework in Math and English while exploring the arts and sciences, such as robotics, digital art, and dance. Every year rising 7th and 8th graders make new friends as they enjoy team activities such as athletics, puzzle making, and games. June 29th to July 24th from 9am-2pm. The Program Fee is $600, which includes course materials, T-Shirt, one Field Trip, and lunch catered by Posto22 - SCA’s yearround lunch catering service.
Summer at New Settlement Community Center 1501 Jerome Avenue, Bronx 718-758-5901 Newsettlementcommunity center.org New Settlement Community Center invites you and your family to participate in their 2020 summer programs at their state-of-the-art facility for individuals aged 6 months and older. Their programs include: Ballet & Hip-Hop with Alvin Ailey, group as well as private swimming classes in their Indoor Aquatics Center,
Mixed Martial Arts, Youth Technology and more. Each program consists of eight weeks of classes once a week. Group swimming is divided into 2-week sessions with classes offered twice a week.
YMCA of New York ymcanyc.org/programs/ camp/find-camp With dozens of locations across the five boroughs, and their Sleepaway Camp upstate, New York City’s YMCA has a summer camp that your child will love — at a location convenient to you! All Y camps feature: • Well-trained staff who serve as positive role models • Activities and games that develop self-esteem and leadership skills • Activities that promote cultural diversity • Exposure to new ageappropriate, challenging, and fun experiences • An atmosphere that fosters fairness, teamwork, and cooperation • Visits to the City’s top attractions, including zoos, aquariums, parks, and museums • Health, exercise, and nutrition education Check their website for locations and open house dates!
Summer Tennis Camp! Move, Grove, and Improve!
Summer Enrichment Academy
7-time Grand Slam Champion and Executive Director of Tennis, Liezel Huber, invites YOU to Summer Camp! The team of world-class coaches welcomes you to have fun, train hard, and improve your game!
June 15 - August 28* Transportation and Lunch Options Available!
*Closed August 17-21
FREE OPEN HOUSES! March 21, April 26, May 9
June 30 - July 17, 2020 The Summer Enrichment Academy (SEA) for girls in grades 6 through 8 Improve Math, English & Reading skills Prepare for the Eighth Grade TACHS Exam Learn the Classical Languages - Latin & Greek Introduction to Robotics, Participate in Sports Activities, & More! For information and to register for SEA
visit www.stbarnabashigh.com or email Aosorio@stbarnabashigh.com Schedule a Shadow Day! Attend classes, meet students and learn all about the Saint Barnabas High School Community REGISTRATION FOR THE CLASS OF 2024 IS OPEN! Register at caryleedstennis.org 718.247.7420 1720 Crotona Avenue, Bronx NY, 10457
Visit stbarnabashigh.com email admissions@stbarnabashigh.com or call 718-325-8800 ext. 20
STEAM into SCA A CAMP THAT INSPIRES GIRLS TO LOVE MATH AND SCIENCE! At STEAM into SCA girls experience firsthand learning and problem solving skills with girls their own age. They have the opportunity to break away from traditional coed classroom structure to identify their strengths and build confidence in their skills and beliefs!
All-in-one 4 weeks program for 12-14 year old girls June 29th - July 24th, 9:00am-2:00pm St. Catharine Academy 2250 Williamsbridge Road, Bronx N.Y. 10469 718-882-2882 • www.scahs.org/steam/ March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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o l l e Hring! p S—
The best ways to embrace the new season in New York City By Mia SalaS
T
he first day of spring is just around the corner on March 19, which means the weather is about to (hopefully) get a whole lot warmer, buds and maybe even some flowers will start to appear, and everyone will be shaking off those winter blues. Eventful and lively in any season, NYC is especially vibrant in the spring with all the many opportunities to workout, get in touch with nature and the outdoors, catch the latest in fashion, eat delicious and healthy food, and relax & rejuvenate your mind and body. We’ve rounded up the best ways to kick off spring in NYC so that you can have all the energy you need to thrive this season. Get Active
Shape Up NYc: Zumba Poe Park Visitor Center, 2640 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY 10458
Looking for a free fitness class to get your workout grind back on? We love Shape Up NYC, a class that combines Latin, international, and popular music with dance moves to create an aerobic workout. It’s always tough to stick to a workout schedule, but with a weekly class, you’ll have the motivation to get moving and grooving! Every Saturday, Free, 10-11am.
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Morning Fitness at Fort tryon Park Heather Garden in Fort Tryon Park, Cabrini Boulevard and Fort Washington Avenue, New York, NY 10040
Breathe in the fresh (soon-to-be spring!) air with this morning fitness class. If you’re not much of a gym person, try this outdoor workout as trained professionals lead you through walking, stretching and strengthening exercises. Exercise with a view, in natural sunlight, with green scenery all around that has health benefits that can’t be found indoors. Every Tuesday and Thursday, 7:30-8:30am, Saturday walks begin at 8:30am, Free. NYRR Open Run Multiple locations
Break out your running shoes for this weekly run through the park. Kids are welcome to join as well! NYRR Open Run is a community-based, volunteer-led running initiative- bringing free weekly runs and walks to local neighborhood parks. The best part about these open runs is that they take place all across NYC, so they’re super convenient. There are five parks in Queens, five in Brooklyn, two in Staten Island, four in Bronx and two in Manhattan that host open runs. Be sure to visit NYRR Open Run online to check out the specific parks and times, as
well as register in advance. Strollers, dogs and little ones of all ages are welcome — just be sure to fill out the waiver for your kiddos. the High Line Gansevoort Street to 34th Street, New York, NY
Bring your family, strollers and furry friends to the High Line to enjoy some time outdoors and check out all of the beautiful spring sights that the elevated pathway has to offer. Make your way through luscious gardens, art displays and plenty of spaces to sit down for a rest and peek out at the busy city beneath you. Another reason the High Line is best in the spring — the vendors return after the cold winter season to bring you delicious food. So after your power walk, casual
sign up for a class so that you can be in your favorite part of the room. Classes include the Mellow Hum, Foundation Hum, Unified Hum and Dynamic Hum, ranging from gentle movement to challenging flow and strength content. Check out the schedule of classes to see what class time works for you. You’ll love the flexibility, with class times lasting from 6am to 8:30pm to accommodate your busy NYC lifestyle. Single class $35, Unlimited Monthly Classes $195, 10-Class Pack $250, Introductory Offer (Unlimited Classes for 3 Weeks) $75, Sound Bath $25. In ToucH WITH naTure & THe ouTdoors Brooklyn Botanic Garden Tours 990 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225
We love the Chase Away the Winter Blues Outdoor Tour at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, taking place on March 1, 12-1pm! Join Lynne Spevack, a licensed psychotherapist for this outdoor wintertime walk. Learn the simple lifestyle practices that can help you maintain a sunny outlook. March’s theme is Early Spring Flowers, so celebrate the transition to spring by checking out over a dozen different species of flowers. There’s also Nature Walks with Bradley Klein: Preparing for Spring on March 8, 11am-12pm. Catch a glimpse of the Garden’s awakening animals and plants, just in time for spring. Both tours are free with Garden admission. First signs of spring Tour Heather Garden in Fort Tryon Park, Cabrini Boulevard and Fort Washington Avenue, New York, NY 10040
stroll or morning jog, treat yourself to some yummy bites. Karma Kids Yoga Multiple locations
We’re obsessed with the parent & child yoga classes at Karma Kids Yoga. Get active with your kiddos as you benjoy a yoga session full of relaxation, imagination, and plenty of poses and stretches to practice at home. Classes include Baby Yoga & Developmental Movement, Mom & Baby Yoga, Mom & Baby Pilates, Parent & Child, Storytime, and Family Yoga. There are also Kids Only classes, including a class for kids with special needs. Also check out the Prenatal Yoga, Pilates and Power classes, as well as some of the classes for teens and bigger kids if your little ones are now
not so little! Pre-registration is often required, but drop-ins are welcome- no need to buy a membership or class package unless you want to. Class rates vary per yoga studio, so be sure to keep up to date with the weekly schedule. Humming Puppy 119 West 23rd Street, Level 2, Suite 200, New York, NY 10011
Want to practice yoga without your kiddos? We totally get it- everybody needs some “me time”, especially NYC mamas! We suggest Humming Puppy, the 80-degree yoga studio that quite literally hums with a combination of frequencies to enhance and deepen your experience. Class sizes are limited so that you can have plenty of personal space, and you can even reserve a specific mat when you
What better way to get back in touch with the outdoors than this First Signs of Spring Tour? Bring your family on a walking tour of the Heather Garden in Fort Tryon Park with horticulturist Madeline Byrne. Learn about the plants currently in bloom and all about the Garden’s history. Compare the Heather Garden with the plants found at the New York Botanical Garden, where Byrne has over 15 years of experience. Spring is just around the corner, so get ready by spotting the signs of spring in nature. March 1, Free, 1-2pm. Garden Projects, Games & More at Queens Botanical Garden 42-50 Main Street, Flushing, Queens, NY 11355
There’s a lot going on at Queens Botanical Garden once spring rolls around. If you’re looking for an event for the whole family, March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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Children’s Garden Family Day on March 21, 1-4pm features planting activities, garden crafts, create your own trail mix, a gardenwide scavenger hunt and more. Another family-friendly spring event is the Garden Creatures Community Art Project, a drop-in Saturday workshop that uses paper-mâché and paint to create collaborative sculptures of flowers, mushrooms, insects and other spring-like creatures. Stop by any Saturday in March, 2-4pm. Both of these events are free! It’s also never too early to start thinking about your summer veggies, so register for the Start Your Summer Veggies Workshop on March 15 or 29, 11am-1pm. Recommended for adults and kids ages 10 and up, you’ll take home your own starter garden. Drop-ins welcome upon availability, but sign up to be safe: $20 non-members, $15 members. The Orchid Show: Orchid Evenings 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10458-5126
Put a spin on your typical winter date nights and have a romantic evening at the New York Botanical Garden to kick off spring. One of New York City’s most spectacular evening outings, The Orchid Show is a kaleidoscopic display of dazzling orchids. The singular style and high energy of the evening performers set the stage alongside signature cocktails and local flavors from the Bronx Night Market. On Saturday nights, you can even make a reservation for a pre-show dinner or light bite at the Hudson Garden Grill. Now in its 18th year, The Orchid Show will surely not disappoint! Orchid Evenings take place on March 14, 20-21, 27-28 and April 3-4, 10-11, 17-18. Entry times are 7, 7:30, 8 & 8:30pm. $39 non-member, $29 members. Macy’s Flower Show: Voyage to Oceanum Herald Square- 151 West 34th Street, New York, NY 10001
For over 70 years, Macy’s has been designing beautiful garden displays for the Macy’s Flower Show, and this year is no different. With 2020’s theme, Macy’s imagines a world that exists way down below — from colorful underwater flowers and coral reefs to mythical creatures from the ocean’s abyss.
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From the moment you walk into Macy’s, you’ll embark upon an exciting under-the-ocean odyssey, discovering long-lost treasures and breathtaking aquatic beauty along the way. Deep dive into spring with this sea of inspiration, opening on March 22, and staying on display through April 5. Take a Closer Look...at Spring! 450 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225
On weekends in March and April, head to Prospect Park Zoo for Take a Closer Look... at Spring! Celebrate spring, nature and learn how to use your powers of observation to explore the natural world around you. Explore the zoo, play games, enjoy interactive activities and try drawing your observations with your own nature sketch book activity. This is a great way to spend an afternoon or morning with your family as you break into the spring season. Free with Zoo admission, 10am-4pm. The Butterfly Conservatory at the American Museum of Natural History 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 100245102
Open through May 25, this popular annual seasonal exhibit is back with more than 500 free-flying butterflies amid lush tropical plants! Revisit your love of nature this spring by checking out these fluttering, symmetrical creatures. The exhibit features butterflies from three families: Pieridae, Papilionidae and Nymphalidae. Learn all about their colors, patterns, behaviors, environment and more as you make your way through the conservatory. Timed entry daily, every quarter hour from 10:15am5pm. Select a General Admission + One or General Admission + All ticket and choose Butterflies. Kite Flying in Central Park Central Park, New York NY
Bring your kiddos to one of the best NYC parks for a fun day outside. If it’s a breezy day, bring your kite to fly up high in the sky. While kite flying is allowed in Central Park
year-round, windy winter days are definitely not the best for the classic spring/summer activity, unless you really bundle up. We recommend looking ahead at the weather and choosing a warm spring day with plenty of wind to get your kite soaring! Edge 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
Explore the outdoors from 1,100 feet high in the air with Edge, opening March 2020 in Hudson Yards! As the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, Edge combines cutting-edge technology, engineering and architecture to provide panoramic views of the city. With angled glass walls, a glass floor, skyline steps and a champagne bar, Edge will be an experience like no other, and a daring, exhilarating start to your many more outdoor spring adventures. Ticket packages vary. SPRING FASHION Mansur Gavriel Circle Bag
What better way to welcome a new season with Mansur Gavriel Circle bag in blush or coral. No, not a diaper bag or a bag that is going to hold the baseball mitts and the baby wipes. An actual bag that you maybe can fit twelve items in. Yes, something that may be deemed frivolous but is downright gorgeous and says, “hello, spring.” Women’s Trend Report at Nordstrom
Catch the latest in fashion with Nordstrom’s Trend Report. These popular trends embody spring in every way, from color to pattern. Graphic Florals is a perennial favorite, featuring blown-up proportions on floaty, tiered lengths and abstract, bloom-scattered motifs on effortless silhouettes. Pastel Pop reimagines closet must-haves into bursts of color for a timeless, yet modern attitude. Wear one pastel hue or let your accessories pop on a muted palette. These pastel looks mean business. Order online, or head over to the Nordstrom flagship store just south of Central Park! Tenoverten x HATCH Trio
Your nails shouldn’t get left out of the spring fashion makeover. We’re obsessed with this Tenoverten x HATCH Trio collab. Tenoverten, pioneers of the non-toxic nail movement, and HATCH, the premium life-
CARDINAL SPELLMAN HIGH SCHOOL
Where Boys and Girls with Dreams Become Men and Women of Vision
Open House: April 28th, 2020 5pm-8pm
Cardinal Spellman High School One Cardinal Spellman Place, Bronx NY 10466 Tel. (718) 881-8000 x 206 I Fax (718) 515-6615
We are still accepting transfer and freshman applications!
www.cardinalspellman.org I TACHS CODE: 303
HAC Family Services Inc. Bridging the Gap to Education & Success
Doris E. Stone 1165 University Avenue Bronx, NY 10452 (718) 588-1030 Highbridge Advisory Council* Day Care Center 1181 Nelson Avenue Bronx, NY 10452 (718) 681-5216 Early Childhood Center I* 1594 Townsend Avenue Bronx, NY 10453 (718) 299-3917
- Childcare (2-years to 5-years) - Family EarlyLearn CACFP - Headstart - Pre-school Evaluations - Universal Pre-K - Pre-school Special Education - Family EarlyLearn (6-weeks to 4-years) - 3-K for All program For more information contact the central office located at: 880 River Avenue Bronx, NY 10452 2nd Floor Phone: (718) 992-1321 Fax: (718) 992-8539 James W. Nathaniel, CEO HacFamilyServicesInc.org www.hacfs.org Nearly a half a century of service to the Bronx
Early Childhood Center III* 1399 Ogden Avenue Bronx, NY 10452 (718) 293-9196 Richard H. Mangum Early Learning Center 921 E. 162nd Street Bronx, New York 10451 (718) 590-0673 Marshall England Early Learning Center 800 Concourse Village East Bronx, NY 10452 (718) 742-2366/69 Head Start Program* 880 River Avenue 2nd Floor Bronx, NY 10452 (718) 992-1321 March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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style brand for clean, mama-safe beauty and timeless clothing for pregnant women and beyond, join forces to launch three shades of nail polish along with in-salon services for new moms and the mom-to-be. These clean and safe brands are also full of life, brightness and sunshine, perfect for the spring. Inside, you’ll find Feisty Mama (magenta), Zen Mama (blush) and Poolside Mama (coral) for $36. If you really want the whole effect, get your HATCH MAMA manicure or pedicure at one of the tenoverten NYC locations: Financial District, Soho, Midtown and Tribeca.
part of their culinary team to research, qualitycheck and liaise with purveyors including farms, local winemakers, craft breweries and greenmarkets. The menu changes daily based on seasonal availability, but PRINT. offers healthy and delectable dishes year-round. And with a beautiful interior design, you’ll surely have a romantic evening.
Ulla Johnson Dress
The Farm on Adderley 1108 Cortelyou Road, Brooklyn, NY 11218
The New York Family staff of moms here are a bit obsessed with Ulla Johnson. This spring, we have our eyes on one of her floral pieces. Her looks, especially one of her flowy dresses — work on a cool day when all you need to add is a fitted blazer. Once the weather breaks pass 70 degrees — it will be no jacket required and just a chic set of sandals. GOODBYE COMFORT FOOD, HELLO SPRING TREATS NYC Ice Cream Shops
Sure, maybe ice cream is technically a summer sweet, but the cold, tasty dessert is also the perfect way to break into spring! There are so many great ice cream shops around NYC, but some of our favorites are: Ample Hills Creamery, Max & Mina’s Ice Cream, Eddie’s Sweet Shop and Sugar Hill Creamery. First Day of Spring at Rita’s Multiple Locations
Every year, the iconic ice and custard shop celebrates the first day of spring with free Italian Ice! On March 19, kick off the first day of spring by bringing your family to Rita’s. Choose from delicious flavors as you take part in this Rita’s Tradition that has a long history of over 25 years. Keep in mind, the line may be long, but free icee treats are definitely worth it. PRINT. 653 11th Avenue, New York, NY 10036
A top date night spot, PRINT. is one of the country’s leading restaurants dedicated to seasonal, sustainable cuisine. With farm fresh ingredients during the growing season and organic and traceable products during the winter, PRINT. totally gives off spring vibes. PRINT. even employs an in-house forager as
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Not only a farm-fresh restaurant, The Farm on Adderley also has amazing community partners that make us smile. The Sweet Givings program raises money for charities, outreach programs and other great causes, such as the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital in February in response to the tragic bushfires in Australia. You can even drop off your natural corks, because the restaurant partners with ReCork for natural cork recycling. The art on the walls makes for a gorgeous scenery as you dine, and the menu features healthy, delicious options, including roasted rainbow trout, farm burgers, brunch selections, smaller plates and seasonal cocktails. Bonus points: there’s a kids menu! Tacocina 25 River Street, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Sure, Tacocina may be open year-round, but nobody likes to enjoy their taco outside during the chilly winter months. Get into the spring spirit with Tacocina’s outdoor seating, featuring a view of the Williamsburg waterfront. The Tacocina team presses its own tortillas to-order, using a heritage breed of corn from coastal Oaxaca in southern Mexico. Enjoy creative and classic flavors, chips & guac or salsa, and a focused selection of Mexican beer, canned wine, tequila cocktails and soft drinks. Bring your family for a bite to eat before you conquer the Domino Park playground or elevated walkway, or enjoy the outdoor scene at Tacocina with your co-workers and friends. Post-work margaritas? Yes, please! The Harvest at Spot Dessert Bar 13th Street Marks Place, New York, NY
10003 5th Street Marks Place, New York, NY 10003 11 West 32nd Street Floor 2, New York, NY 10001 39-16 Prince Street, Flushing, Queens, NY 11354
Maybe we’re not entirely done with comfort food this spring, but with The Harvest, you get the comfort taste with a healthy look. This super sweet dessert is made of layers of berries, soft cheesecake, oreo crumbs and earl grey milk tea, served with raspberry sorbet. Healthy? Not so much, but it’s baked into a planter pot with the oreo crumbles on top to mirror dirt, complete with a mint twig sprouting out of it. This treat definitely qualifies for a spring Instagram post. Another favorite is Chocolate Forest: pistachio and apricot crumb covered choco mousse cake with chocolate filling, served with pistachio ice cream. Again, on the outside, this dessert looks like an elegant green forest, which basically cancels out all of the calories on the inside in our mind. RELAX & REJUVENATE The Happinest NYC 170 S 1st Street, Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Interested in meditation and mindfulness sessions to get mentally prepared for the new season? The Happinest NYC offers classes for the whole family. Known for their meditation and mindfulness for kids, the studio also has programming for adults, and specifically for parents. Browse the various classes and register for a drop-in or consider securing a membership. This is a great way for you and your kids to break into spring together. Chillhouse 149 Essex St, New York, NY 10002 75 Varick St, New York, NY 10013
Chill out, kick up your feet and relax at the Chillhouse — the destination for modern self-care. Get a facial, massage, manicure/ pedicure or book a visit to the sauna. Some of our favorites are the “Mama Needs to Chill” prenatal massage therapy and the “Make Me Glow” facial. Book your service online today and get ready for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation for your body and mind. Another plus: there’s a cafe to satisfy all of your salty and sweet cravings!
Clowns • Characters Face Painting • Balloon Art • Magic Games • Cotton Candy • Popcorn Paint Nites for Adults & Kids too!
Party Room available for Birthday & Baby Shower Celebrations! Call (917) 579-0867 to book your party today! /ConfettiPartyPlace /ConfettiPartyPlace 3190 Westchester Avenue, Bronx, New York 10461
“
INGENIOUS BUBBLE WIZARDRY.” -THE NEW YORKER
Telecharge.com or 212.239.6200
For groups or birthdays call 866.642.9849
New World Stages 340 W. 50th St.
GazillionBubbleShow.com G ill llii B bbl Sh
BROADWAY’S FUNNIEST SMASH HIT AND INTERNATIONAL PHENOMENON
Check out our new site!
MARCH MADNESS
We’ve given our New York Family website a major makeover Visit newyorkfamily.com to check it out and sign up for our weekly newsletters!
BROADWAYGOESWRONG.COM 212-239-6200 NEW WORLD STAGES 340 W 50th St (between 8th & 9th Aves)
March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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Bold
The Jodie Patterson
The writer and activist speaks candidly about parenting, diversity, and learning to adapt By Hester ABA
J
odie Patterson is a writer and activist, raising five children in New York City. Jodie’s memoir, The Bold World, which recently came out in paperback, lovingly and unflinchingly discusses her childhood and her own experience of being parented, as preparation for the challenges she has faced as a parent herself. Jodie’s awakening as an activist grew from the experience of one of her children identifying as transgender: her son, Penelope. We talked to Jodie about her fascinating life, and her tips for parents facing unforeseeable and unique challenges. We loved reading your memoir, The Bold World. One of the main lessons your parents imparted is “to think in numbers” when it comes to the experience of being Black. What does that mean to you? As a black person, I’m often made to feel that there aren’t many of “us” out there. That I’m only one of a few. That I’m the strange minority in the room. My parents taught me differently. They taught me to think collectively, to link arms with anyone who shared a similar perspective of the world and shared the obstacles we experience as Black people. So brown folks all over the world became “Our People”. Simply because all brown people experience racism and oppression in some form. Thinking collectively made me feel powerful — even as a little girl I felt like I was part of a warrior tribe. Whenever you link yourself to lineage and to a global collective, you center yourself. I’ve tried to pas≠s that on to my children: You are the prototype. When you tell Black children, girls,
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queer kids “you are the prototype” it’s radical — because everything else in society is telling them they don’t count. You mention that your father wanted you to be able to “flow” from one situation to another; to be comfortable with rich and poor, uptown and downtown, Black and White. How do you think we can best teach this skill to our children? Adaptability is one of the hardest skills to learn. It’s also a key element in our children’s life success. Through practice children can build an inner ability to adapt to change. At some point I had to allow my kids to enter all spaces, not just the pretty ones — sparring rings, neighborhood basketball courts, country clubs, suburban, urban and visiting rural friends. It’s important to take your children into different neighborhoods, visit friends across town, experience a meal in an environment that is very different from their own so that crossing borders become no big deal. Your oldest son was accepted into your family at age 19 as a “man-boy”. Do you have any advice for parents who might be adopting older children? Nain and I met when he was just completing high school. We were immediately drawn to each other and over time developed an unbreakable bond. It was a connection that’s hard to put into words, because it sounds so reckless maybe: You meet a kid, you invite him into your home, you become family. But the best way to describe it is that we ‘chose each other’. And because we met when he was 19, there are many elements of his life that I don’t understand and dont know. And vice
versa. We take each other as we are today and not how we wish we were. For me this is a new approach to parenting because I’m not raising him, I’m sharing life with him. You have a transgender son, Penelope, and your account of his pain as he tried to understand and express his identity is heartbreaking. How did you find the wisdom to come to a place of understanding yourself? Malcolm Gladwell says it takes 10,000 hours to become an expert, so I researched, read, investigated on the internet, went to gender conferences all over the country and sat quietly in the back and listened, joined parents in discussion groups, sat with doctors, read more books… It was a year of deep learning of the basics around gender variance. And then eventually I put all that knowledge into my pocket and I just lived, experienced and enjoyed life with my son. The deepest learning came from staying in close proximity to the very person I was trying to understand better. The books and research took me out of the dark, but the real shift came from being with Penelope. What resources would you recommend that parents of trans or gender non-conforming children tackle first as part of their 10,000 hours? The Human Rights Campaign is an enormous source of information. It’s the largest LGBT organization and has made a commitment to protect trans identifying people. Within the organization, there is a group of parents — Parents for Transgender Equality Council — that gather information, offer support, influence policy, debunk
negative stereotypes, and reshape the narrative one school, one person, one elected official at a time. They are phenomenal! I also really respect the work being done at The Ackerman Institutes Gender and Family Project. Their peer and parent groups saved my family from sadness and confusion. They also have great educators who train schools to be more gender inclusive and safe. How did you guide Penelope’s siblings through his trans status? We talk out ideas, and “Lab Out” big concepts — sometimes for hours at a time. Basically, anytime we don’t agree on big issues, we sit down and Lab it out. The rules are that whoever has the proverbial microphone gets to speak for as long as they need, you can’t interrupt and can only speak your truth. So my 13 year old scientist says, “I respect you Penelope, and I’ll always use your preferred pronouns. But I don’t believe in trans. It’s not scientifically proven. And scientifically speaking, physiologically speaking, you are a girl.” Penelope might then say, “Trans is a fact. And this is the way god has made me”. My 13 Year Old might counter that God is not proven either. They’ve been discussing both God and Gender for years and they still don’t see eye to eye. For us, the goal isn’t to agree, it is to discuss and disagree with decorum. Sometimes we discuss big ideas for so long that we become bored and the ideas become no big deal and we eventually decide to go play basketball instead. What is next for you in your activism and work? I was recently elected Chair of the Board of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. I’m very proud of the work in front of me: How do we empower parents to champion for their gender non-conforming kids? How do we help make HBCU college campuses safe and appealing to our LGBT students? How do we combat AIDS in the south and get PrEP into the hands of all people living with AIDS? How do we unite the faith community and the queer community so that we’re working together? What does LGBT acceptance look like globally? How can we elect a pro-equality president? Big questions that need strong programs and even stronger budgets… But this is the work that excites me these days!
Yumi Matsuo
Jodie’s memoir The Bold World is available wherever books are sold. To keep up with Jodie’s adventures, follow her on Instagram @ jodiepatterson. March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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family fun
10 MUSEUMS
MUSIC
THEATER
Great Kid-Friendly March Events in the Bronx By mia salas
FAMILY ART PROJECT: WE BUILD OUR HOMES March 1 Where is your safe place? Join guest artist Anh Ta in this family workshop to create an accordion-style zine to use as a journal, field notebook or book of recipes for holding the memories and plans that help you understand what home is to you. Free with admission to the grounds, 10 am-1 pm. Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Riverdale, Bronx, NY 10471, wavehill.org
MUMMENSCHANZ
ATTRACTIONS
FOOD
DECOMPOSERS: THE WORLD OF WORMS March 2 As a part of the NYPL Green program, led by Mad Science, kids will discover the role that worms play in our ecosystem and plant growth. Then they’ll get to build their own worm world, complete with a live worm to take home. Little ones will even get to find out more about fungi and mushrooms! Free, 4 pm. Hunts Point Library, 877 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 10459, nypl.org
WII GAMING: JUST DANCE 2020
March 1 Since its successful three-year run on Broadway, Swiss based theater troupe MUMMENSCHANZ has pioneered a new form of visual theater that has dazzled audiences for more than 45 years. Bring your family for a theater experience like no other that plays with shadows, light and manipulation of objects. $25-$45, 4 pm. Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, 250 Bedford Park Boulevard West, Bronx, NY 10468, lehmancenter.org
March 11 and 25 Just Dance is the iconic game that kids can move and groove to their favorite songs! Have you secured Just Dance 2020 yet? If not, head on over to the library to play the new version of the game with the latest hits and new dance moves. Kids can compete with their friends and neighbors and have a whole lot of fun! Free, 3:30 pm. West Farms Library, 2085 Honeywell Avenue, Bronx, NY 10460, nypl.org
FAMILY OLYMPICS
Outdoors
March 14 Put your family fitness skills to the test by competing in fun and energetic fitness challenges. There will be activities for all ages, and you’ll even have a chance to win a family award! This may not be the real Olympics, but it will be just as entertaining. $10 per family, Free with Family membership, 3-5 pm. Bronx House, 990 Pelham Parkway South, Bronx, NY 10461, bronxhouse.org
CONCERT: PUBLIQUARTET
Ryan Scherb
Listen to PUBLIQuartet cross genres in their unique style at Wave Hill on March 15.
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March 15 If you have bigger kids who enjoy music, then this concert is the perfect family outing! Mind The Gap is an original project developed in 2011 by PUBLIQuartet. The concept bridges the gap between diverse musical genres through group improvisation. $30 Adults, $14 Kids ages 8-18, purchase tickets in advance to save $2 per ticket, members save 10%, 2-3 pm. Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Riverdale, Bronx, NY 10471, wavehill.org
GREEN SKYSCRAPER BUILDING CHALLENGE March 17 Conducted by Architecture for Kids in partnership with NYPL Green, the Green Skyscraper Building Challenge invites kids to use their creativity and outside-the-box thinking. Learn about sustainable design as you construct your own eco-friendly tall tower, with all materials provided. Free, 3:30-5 pm. Mott Haven Library, 321 East 140th St., Bronx, NY 10454, nypl.org
BRONX ZOO MORNINGS: BIG CATS March 21 In this before-hours program, watch the zoo animals enjoy their morning enrichment, meet an animal up close and chat with a zookeeper. Your family will test their big cat knowledge, investigate big cat skulls and learn about the Bronx Zoo’s big cat residents. $45, $36 Members, 9-10:30 am. Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 10460, bronxzoo.com
ROMEO & JULIET | CARMEN March 22 Have your little ones ever seen a ballet? Catch The Russian National Ballet as they perform scenes from Romeo & Juliet and Carmen. The Russian National Ballet has been bringing timeless ballet classics to the stages of North America since 1999. This beautiful show is sure to be nothing but spectacular. $25-$45, 4 pm. Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, 250 Bedford Park Boulevard West, Bronx, NY 10468, lehmancenter.org
Experience the unique world of Mummenschanz, on stage at the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts on March 1.
JR. KEEPERS: OTTERS March 28 Bring your little zookeepers to the Zoo so they can have close up animal encounters, help with enrichment for its animal collection, and practice the skills it takes to care for wild animals. In this program focused on otters, kids in grades 3-5 will visit the Jungle World exhibit, meet a real zookeeper and much more! $55, $45 Members, 9 am-12 pm. Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 10460, bronxzoo.com March 2020 | Bronx/Riverdale Family
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family fun
Featured event
Events Around the City By Mia Salas
WOMEN IN TRANSIT March 5-29 As March is Women’s History Month, head to the New York Transit Museum to celebrate Women in Transit! There are three programs for kids: Transit Tots for ages 2 to 5, History on Wheels for all ages, and the Discovery Room for ages 2 to 5. Hear transitthemed stories, make discoveries, learn fun facts, and explore transit-themed stations through play. Free with Museum admission, Transit Tots: Thursdays March 5-26, 10:15-11:15 am, History on Wheels: Weekends March 7-29, 11:30 am and 2 pm, Discovery Room: Weekends March 7-29, 11:30 am and 3:30 pm. New York Transit Museum, 99 Schermerhorn St., Brooklyn, NY 11201, nytransitmuseum.org
PAIGE IN FULL March 7 Get ready for a family performance that explores identity, ethnicity and culture. Paige in Full is a visual mix-tape that blends poetry, dance, visual arts, and music to tell the tale of a multicultural girl growing up in Baltimore. Before the performance, sign up for an interactive hip hop workshop that will get you moving and grooving! Performance only: $14, $10 Members, $8 Kids, $6 Member Kids, Free for Teens, Performance and Workshop: $22, $15 Members, $13 Kids, $9 Member Kids, Free for Teens, 1 pm workshop, 2:15 pm performance. Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing, Queens, NY 11354, flushingtownhall.org
BUILDING SOLAR RACE CARS March 13
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MasterChef Junior Live! March 13 The culinary hit TV show MasterChef Junior is taking the stage in Brooklyn! The family-friendly show will feature head-to-head cooking demonstrations, challenges with past
Head to the library to design, build and test your own mini solar-powered race car! If time allows, you’ll even get to race your car outdoors. In partnership with Solar One, NYPL Green welcomes kids and their families to this adventurous and educational workshop, in which all materials are provided and participants get to keep their solar powered cars. Free, 4 pm. Tremont Library, 1866 Washington Ave., Bronx, NY 10457, nypl.org
JUST KIDDING: SQUIRREL STOLE MY UNDERPANTS March 14 A mischievous squirrel steals Sylvie’s favorite piece of clothing when she’s hanging up her laundry in the backyard! Will Sylvie rescue her underpants and discover the magic within herself? The Gottabees’ stories reflect children’s everyday aspirations, concerns, and emotional experiences. Through wordless puppetry action and live music, your family will discover something imaginative and new. $17, $14 Members, 11 am and 2 pm. Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre, 2537 Broadway, New York, NY 10025, symphonyspace. org
MasterChef Junior contestants and an overall immersive audience experience, fun for all ages. Tickets start at $29.50, 6 pm, doors open at 5 pm. Kings Theatre, 1027 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11226, kingstheatre.com
ARCH MADNESS March 21 In the spirit of “March Madness,” architectural features of skyscrapers will be pitted against each other and young architects will have to choose which ones will rise to the top. Designed for ages 5 and up, this family workshop will encourage creativity, imagination and outside-the-box thinking! $5 per kid, Free for members, RSVP requested, 10:3011:45 am. The Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, New York, NY 10280, skyscraper.org
BRAIN AWARENESS WEEKEND DROP-IN March 21-22 Visitors of all ages can drop into the Educational Lab in the Hall of Human Origins to celebrate the wonders of the brain. Learn how the brain evolved in animals, chat with neuroscientists, participate in hands-on activities, and explore how our perception of color can change our minds and influence our actions, inspired by the new exhibition, “The Nature of Color”. Free with Museum admission, 12-5 pm. Hall of Human Origins Educational Library, American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024-5102, amnh.org
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SUMMER CAMP 2020 Over 70 camp locations in NYC and a sleepaway camp in upstate NY. Financial Assistance Available. Visit YMCAnyc.org/camp