Westchester Family - April 2021

April 2021

WestchesterFamily.com

Liz Teich The New York Stylist, on her pandemic pregnancy, suburban life, and how to shop sustainably

Spring Clean!

How to organize your pantry

Mental Health Tips for Parents of Preschool Kids with Autism The Best Fitness Apps for Moms

The Safety of Our Patients Is More Important Than Ever

Penny Resnick Graulich, DMD Emelie Preis, DDS Dayna Mermelstein DMD Fatina Shtivelman DDS Voted one of Westchester’s Top Pediatric Dentists

by Westchester Magazine 10 years in a row

MAIN STREET PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 115 Main Street, Suite 302, Tuckahoe, NY 10707 (914) 633-4440 MainStreetPediatricDentistry.com

We continue to be committed to your child’s health and safety.

Here’s an example of some of the changes we’ve made to protect our patients and staff in this time of Covid 19: • Air purifiers placed throughout the office • Commercial grade fogger, affective in killing bacteria and viruses, including Covid 19 • UVC lights and sonic systems used to increase sterilization procedures • HEPA air filtration system connected to the HVAC system • Personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, masks, disposable gowns and face shields • As always, we use CDC and OSHA disinfection protocols

If sending your child to school in the city is not for you…

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OakwoodFriends.org In-Person 5-Day-A-Week Classes Upper School Day & Boarding Programs (5 and 7-day) Middle School Day Program 22 Spackenkill Road, Poughkeepsie, NY Easily reachable via Metro North to Poughkeepsie station

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Discover! OakwoodFriends.org April 2021 | Westchester Family

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contents

April 2021

WestchesterFamily.com

pg. 20

pg. 10 pg. 10

pg. 26

FEATURES 20 | Baby The New York Milk Bank distributes donor breast milk to local families in need 22 | Get Organized Expert advice on how to spring clean your pantry in five steps 26 | Liz Teich - The Warrior of Westchester The New York Stylist, on her pandemic pregnancy, suburban life, and tips on how to shop sustainably

Stories & columns 6 | Editor’s Note Spring-ing Forward 10 | Special Needs Steps to take if you think your child may be autistic 12 | Special Needs Teaching self-care to the caregivers 16 | Education Montessori Then and Now 24 | Camp Camps are back!

30 | Family Day Out Yayoi Kusama at the New York Botanical Garden

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pg. 30

Directories 14 | Special Needs Directory 18 | Montessori Directory

on the Cover Photo: Yumi Matsuo | yumimatsuostudio.com Hair & Makeup: Buffy Hernandez | buffysaintmarie.com Produced by: Donna Duarte-Ladd Written by: Cris Pearlstein | crispearlstein.com Cover fashion:

On Liz: Need & Thread London dress via Tulerie (tulerie.com), Lauren Gabrielson earrings (laurengabrielson.com), Lele Sadoughie headband (laurengabrielson.com ) On Asher: My Little Cosmo tee and pants, sold separately at ARLi (shoparli.com) On Andi: Louise Misha onesie sold at ARLi (shoparli.com), Converse sneakers (converse.com)

Thornton-Donovan School’s

Summer Challenge An energetic, exciting and well-balanced summer activities program of sports, recreation and education designed to meet Challengers from ages 3–14.

Program Dates: July 5–August 20, 2021 8:30am to 3:30pm • Ages 3–14 • Co-ed Rate: $600 per week. There will be a $250 discount on camp fees for all applications complete and paid in full by May 3rd for those signing up for six or seven weeks of camp.

There will be a $100 sibling discount on the 2nd (3rd and 4th) child in your family.

100 Overlook Circle, New Rochelle, NY | 914.632.8836 I www.td.edu April 2021 | Westchester Family

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Editor’s Note

President Victoria Schneps-Yunis CEO Joshua Schneps

Westchester Family WestchesterFamily.com Publisher Clifford Luster cluster@schnepsmedia.com Executive Editor Donna Duarte-Ladd edit@westchesterfamily.com Digital Editor Katarina Avendaño Contributing Editor Serena Norr Digital Director Erik Bliss

Nina Gallo Photography

Spring-ing Forward New York is full of hope with more people now able to get vaccinated (yay!). Spring is here; we can visit museums, stop by for ice cream and even go to the movies.

A huge part of city life is preparing for the upcoming camp season, we even had a few camps share (page 24) what they are looking forward to for the upcoming summer season.

April is Autism Awareness Month, and as a parent with a little one on the ASD

spectrum, I appreciate this Special Needs piece (page 10) on tips if you think your chid may be Autistic.

For April’s fun cover, contributor Cris Pearlstein shares on Liz Teich of The New York Stylist (page 26), her new home in New Rochelle, Westchester, giving birth during the height of a pandemic and living sustainably.

ADVERTISING SALES Account Managers LynnMarie Hanley lynnmarie.hanley@westchesterfamily.com Nina Spiegelman nina.spiegelman@westchesterfamily.com PRODUctION Art Director Leah Mitch production@schnepsmedia.com Production Staff Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION Roberto Palacios 718-260-4531

Please recycle this magazine.

Donna and New York Family Media

Special note: Stop Asian Hate.

At New York Family Media, we stand with our Asian community. Here are a few sites and IGs that help support and give to the Asian community.

• Caav.org • Stopaapihate.org • @aaajalc • @apen4ej

Westchester Family (ISSN 1043-6774) is published monthly by Queens Family Media LLC. 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. 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.

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Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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7

MOM HACKS

The Best Fitness Apps for busy New York moms

BY HESTER ABA

I

n the life of a busy parent, fitting in time for working out is a challenge. While we miss heading to a cool downtown studio to check out the latest fitness trend, or sweating it out at the gym, Covid has meant that most of us have transitioned to at-home workouts. There is an overwhelming number of options when it comes to fitness apps and classes offering online streaming, so I checked out some of the best New York-based fitness apps to see what I loved (and what I didn’t!) as I sweated and danced my way through four weeks of fitness fun. While I initially set out to find the “perfect” app, I’ve realized combining a few app subscriptions means I can pick and choose the best workout to suit my mood, and to deliver endless variety. And even the price of all of these app subscriptions combined is still much less than a gym membership!

Peloton onepeloton.com

Peloton is best-known for its proprietary stationary bikes and treadmills (and the long waitlist to receive your purchase once you’ve ordered!) but they also have a stand-alone fitness app that allows you to take Peloton strength, running, bootcamp, yoga, cycling and meditation classes with their coterie of charismatic instructors. Classes range in length from five to 60 minutes, and are easily searchable by type, level and even music genre. I’ve been using the Peloton app for a couple of years now, in conjunction with their bike, and to mix up my workout routine by adding in barre, pilates, and full body workouts using free weights or my own body-weight. Pre-Covid, I would use my Peloton app while traveling, as the majority of workouts just need a mat and a small space.

New classes are constantly being added, and I’ve learned which instructors I love and who will motivate me to push myself. Peloton is definitely best-in-class in terms of the sophistication of its offering, but for me it’s not a complete solution, so I like to use this as my base app for four days of the week, and then add on one or two more workouts from other sources for nov-

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elty! Peloton has some basic prenatal strength and cycling content, but there’s definitely room to grow this category further.

What I Love About the Peloton App:

Peloton’s instructors are incredibly positive and encouraging — I feel like I have a sense of connection to their different personalities.

I love working out with Cody if I’m having a hard day because he always makes me laugh, and Robin makes me feel like I can go out and kick some butt! I also love how Peloton has the rights to use famous artists’ music, so you can workout to really fun pop and hip hop playlists. Another great thing that Peloton has (which none of the other fitness apps I tried have) is that they offer rewards and badges for completing challenges, or for getting a “PR” (personal record). I find this incredibly motivating, and it’s also easy to see which workouts you’ve already completed and track your progress over time.

What’s Not So Great: One of the reasons

why I started looking outside of the Peloton app was because I really missed my in-person

Pilates classes, and Peloton’s Pilates content isn’t as developed as some of their other categories.

If they had a dedicated Pilates instructor and introduced more content in their category, their app might be my all-around winner.

The Investment: $12.99 per month (check for current promotions to see if you get your first month free).

Melissa Wood melissawoodhealth.com

NYC-based mama and influencer Melissa Wood’s app contains a blend of short and longer pilates and yoga-inspired workouts and meditations. Wood’s vibe is calm, semispiritual and very targeted, with minimal cardio and a lot of focus on creating “long, lean lines” via repetitive stretching and toning movements with either just bodyweight, or one pound ankle/wrist weights, along with the occasional use of resistance bands and balls. Melissa Wood is the sole instructor on her platform, leading all of the workouts, and she proposes a weekly schedule made up of previously-filmed content and helpfully mix-

ing longer and shorter classes with slightly different focuses (e.g. legs one day, abs another).

What I Love About the Melissa Wood App: Melissa Wood’s workouts, especially

her ab workouts and standing series are just incredibly effective. If you follow her weekly program, within a couple of weeks you will notice a firmer core and tighter legs and booty. Her program really works, and is really great for womens’ bodies. She includes plenty of time for taking a breath and recovery within the workout, and gives guidance on how to avoid injury. Melissa Wood has both pre- and post-natal content, and has two children of her own. There’s a lot of planking and core work involved, and even eight years after having my youngest, my mid-section still has a lot of room for improvement! But since starting the Melissa Wood workouts, I can actually see a hint of abdominal muscles peeking through!

Now if only I could put down the cookies…

What’s Not So Great: Melissa Wood’s app

functionality is basic, without the ability to see which workouts you’ve previously completed, and as she films most of her workouts in the City, you can often hear sirens, construction and other street noise in the background, which can be a little distracting during a meditation!

Melissa Wood’s workouts also do not feature any background music. I actually find this quite pleasant and it allows me to really hear her instructions, but it might not be for everyone.

Investment: $99 per year or $9.99 per

month. Melissa Wood offers a 7-day free trial.

The Sculpt Society thesculptsociety.com

Created by former Brooklyn Nets dancer, Megan Roup, The Sculpt Society, or TSS, is a dance-based approach to fitness, which also incorporates elements of Pilates. If Melissa Wood is your calm, spiritual older sister, Megan Roup is your energetic, bouncy little sister. TSS’s app is designed as an all-in-one approach to fitness, and as Roup is currently pregnant, she has started to introduce some new instructors on the platform. TSS has a great selection of beginner content that takes newbies through some of the basics of Dance Cardio moves, which as someone with zero coordination, I really appreciated.

Then to kick off, you can follow a ten-week introductory program which mixes Dance Cardio and “Sculpting” classes (more Pilatesbased) with short stretches to get you going on the platform. TSS classes quite frequently

While I initially set out to find the “perfect” app, I’ve realized combining a few app subscriptions means I can pick and choose the best workout to suit my mood, and to deliver endless variety. use props including light hand weights, ankle/wrist weights, bands and “sliders,” but I substituted towels for sliders and found these worked just as well.

What I Love About the Sculpt Society App: Megan Roup’s vibe is upbeat and

infectious, and her workouts always start off with some energetic movement, so TSS classes are always a mood-booster for me.

Like the Melissa Wood program, the moves are extremely effective for strengthening the lower body and abdominals, and I like the focus on being “strong” instead of mentioning physical aesthetics. I loved the introductory videos, and the content is beautifully shot and slickly produced. The sequences of movements that TSS features are very well thought-out, and there’s plenty of scope and suggestions for how to both level up your workout, or to scale it down. TSS has a special pre- and post-natal program including pelvic floor workouts.

What’s Not So Great: The pace of the

workouts can be quite quick, and so I sometimes need to pause the video and rewind it to ensure I’m doing a particular sequence correctly. I also sometimes find that TSS’s core sequences strain my neck, which doesn’t happen with the Melissa Wood workouts. The TSS accompanying music is fun and lively, but seems to be generic opensource music, or at least, this old lady never recognizes any of the tunes!

much focus on the mind as the body in their sessions. No equipment is needed, only a mat, and classes range in length from 30 minutes to 60 minutes. There’s also a daily schedule so you can tune in throughout the day, or pick from their on-demand library. The music is much more alternative than Peloton’s selection, a mix of rocky guitar music and upbeat EDM. The instructor will guide you through a sequence of jumping, dancing and very repetitive, prolonged periods of focusing on particular body parts, ending with a “heart-opening” movement and brief meditation. At various times you might be encouraged to make noise or dance freely. The Class has been a life-line for its participants in quarantine as it is deeply cathartic and the instructors encourage looking inward and share inspirational thoughts.

What I Loved About The Class: I loved The Class’s aesthetic, which is so minimal and pared-back and totally not focused on body image. When I took one of Soraya’s classes, she whipped her long hair back and forth in a way that felt very un-fitnessy, and I felt as though I had been transported to a primal scream class. I loved how the repetitive movements take you out of your body, requiring very little thought or focus, to allow you to have a meditative experience.

I also liked how thoughtful the music selection is, and how it is used to take you on a journey, and to uplift and then relax in turn, and I liked the way even in the most intense moments, you are encouraged to stop and take a breath and return to your body.

Investment: $119 per year or $19.99 per

month. TSS offers a 14-day free trial.

The Class theclass.com

In-the-know New Yorkers will already be familiar with The Class by Taryn Toomey, which was forced to go virtual during 2020, and which streams their live workouts from their Manhattan studio. Like Peloton, there are a whole host of popular instructors, who mainly dress in variations on black bodysuits, with candles lit in the background. It’s a little bit Goop-y, and VERY different from the other fitness apps I reviewed, as there is as

What’s Not So Great: I think in general I

prefer for my therapy to be therapy, and my fitness to be fitness, and I found the blend of the two didn’t always hit the spot for me. If you’re working through something though, like grief, or trauma, I can see how The Class would be an amazing tool. I definitely experienced moments of transcendent emotion that I haven’t experienced through other fitness apps.

It is also worth noting that The Class is by far the most expensive fitness app I reviewed.

The Investment: $400 per year or $40 per month. The Class offers a 14-day free trial.

April 2021 | Westchester Family

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special needs

Your Child & Autism Steps to take if you think your child may be autistic

By Dr.Emily lEvy

M

any parents have that ‘a-ha’ moment when they realize their child may have a more profound challenge than previously expectant. Unlike your friend’s kid at the same age- your child has trouble maintaining friendships, struggles to communicate, or demonstrates repetitive body movements.

Perhaps he has difficulty relating to the world around him and seems inflexible with his thoughts and behaviors. If you notice these characteristics, don’t ignore them. While your child could be delayed, it may be wise to seek a professional opinion and check if your child may be on the autism spectrum.

Learn the milestones Many children with autism show developmental delays early on and don’t meet typical milestones. For instance, by 6-9 months, most babies can sit up without support, babble sounds, and respond to their name. By 9-12 months, babies typically grab objects and toys, crawl, and stand independently. Most children can walk independently between ages 1-3, climb stairs, jump, stack objects, speak in short sentences, and follow basic directions. Between ages 3-5, children can typically toss a ball overhand, get dressed independently, and draw a full person with all features. Children ages 6-12 generally have developed strong friendships with peers and are usually independent in completing their school work. If you notice delays or regression in any of these milestones and your instincts tell you something is off, your child may be at risk for autism.

Identifying autism If you think your child has autism, take action. The sooner you identify and address autism, the better it will be for your family. Speak to your child’s doctor; he or she may inquire as to whether all developmental milestones have been met and may recommend an autism screening.

This screening typically consists of a series

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WestchesterFamily.com | April 2021

of yes or no questions regarding symptoms.

If your doctor suspects that your child may have autism, your child may need to have a full diagnostic evaluation by an ASD specialist. Typically, the evaluator will observe your child, ask you as the parent a series of questions, fill out questionnaires, and administer a series of tests to your child.

These factors will allow the evaluator to identify whether or not your child may have autism so you can take appropriate action for a concrete diagnosis.

social skills groups, etc. Also, learn what you can do at home to help your child, such as creating a set structure and routine and rewarding good behavior. The more you can work as a team with your child’s doctors, educators, and therapists will help provide consistent support to your child.

Many children with autism are kind, loving, high-achieving individuals who have countless gifts. With the right support, your child can succeed academically and thrive in life.

Your Child Receives an ASD Diagnosis — Next Step First off, don’t panic. There are many resources and a great deal of support available for children with autism, and your child is certainly not alone! However, the earlier you intervene and seek your child’s services, the more gains you will see. Once you receive the diagnosis, which typically includes a full report, read it thoroughly and review the evaluator or doctor’s recommendations.

Reach out to your child’s school to let them know about the diagnosis and inquire about creating an IEP (Individualized Education Program) to map out the services your child will receive based on his needs. These services may include special education classroom placement, speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, physical therapy,

Dr. Emily Levy is the founder of EBL Coaching (eblcoaching.com), a tutoring program that specializes in one-on-one home and on-site instruction for students in grades preK-12 in NYC, NJ, and Westchester. She is also the author of Strategies for Study Success, a study skills workbooks series emphasizing test taking, note taking, reading comprehension, writing, and executive functioning strategies, and the Flags and Stars Orton Gillingham student workbook series. These books are currently used at schools nationwide. Dr. Levy studied at Brown University and later received her Masters Degree in Special Education and her Doctorate Degree in Education. She has spoken nationwide on research-based methods for teaching students with and without learning disabilities. Dr. Levy is currently the Director of EBL Coaching’s learning centers.

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greenchimneys.org

Yellow Bus ABA is a therapy group providing consultation and intervention services for individuals of all ages who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We have drawn upon the unique strengths of our highly experienced team of behavior specialists to employ scientifically validated teaching methodology, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), to bring quality care and intervention with lasting results.

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11

Special NeedS

Teaching Self-Care to the Caregivers ACDS Westchester is helping parents of young children with autism take care of themselves

By Sheryl r. FriShman

W

hile there is a litany of research on the symptoms that present with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and evidence based treatment methodologies for working with, and treating children with ASD, there is little research on evidence-based treatments for the parents of these children.

Having a child with ASD causes extreme stress and even depression in parents, particularly in mothers. The diagnosis of ASD also comes at a neurodevelopmental time in a child’s life where he or she has a greater vulnerability to parental stress and depression. Some of the factors that lead to this stress and depression are: problem behaviors the child exhibits, lack of sleep, isolation, and extreme financial pressures.

Mothers are typically so wrapped up in securing services and caring for their child, particularly during the preschool years, that they take little time for themselves.

When looking at how to help mothers with children with ASD, the focus of much of the research has been on reducing the child’s behavior at home, rather than treating the mother’s stress and risk for depression directly or providing mothers with the necessary tools and parenting strategies that may prevent stress and depression.

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an evidence-based treatment that has been shown to reduce stress and depression in parents. In addition, these treatments have been shown to be effective specifically in reducing parenting stress and depression particularly in mothers with special needs children.

Doing MBSR in a group setting allows mothers to be with other mothers who are going through similar issues, to

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help them feel less isolation (one of the components that contribute to stress and depression). Groups focusing specifically on mothers of preschoolers could enable parents to learn coping strategies closer to the age of diagnosis and during a critical neurodevelopmental stage of their child.

In order to help mothers of preschool children with disabilities take better care of themselves, we, at ACDS Westchester, offer a free MBSR groups for mothers of children in our special education preschool program free of charge. We feel that you cannot educate a young child with special needs in a vacuum.

ACDS Westchester takes a holistic approach and offers support to the entire family system as well.

So far we have run the MBSR group five times and with much success. Each group runs for six sessions two hours each.

The mothers that attend our groups learn the coping mechanisms necessary to stay calm during difficult situations, learn not compare themselves to others, learn to grieve their idealized child, in addition to learning other important skills. Further, in every group we have run the mothers closely bond with one another allowing mothers who felt isolated previously to have a circle of support.

Sheryl R. Frishman, JD LMSW is the Clinical Supervisor and Director of Parent & Community Outreach at ACDS Westchester. Before entering social work, Sheryl practiced law for 20 years specifically working with families with special needs loved ones. Sheryl is also the mother of Aaron, her inspiration, who has Autism. Sheryl developed and leads the MSBR groups for mothers at ACDS Westchester.

Founded in 1935,

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Art Instruction Behavior Training Outreach Services Vocational Training Interactive Theatre Arts Music PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports)

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Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy Social Work Psychology Adaptive Physical Education 1 Cross Road, Ardsley, NY 10502

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April 2021 | Westchester Family

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Special Needs Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

Biondi Education Center 463 Hawthorne Ave., Yonkers 914-375-8969 risingground.org/program/ biondi-elementary-school K-12th Grades. Their nurturing setting and individualized therapeutic support help students build their academic skills, grow their self-esteem, and learn to overcome frustration - all skills necessary for success.

At Biondi they use evidencebased approaches to work with students, which allows them to continue their academic and emotional progress. Certified Teachers and Teaching Assistants, Clinical Psychologists, School Social Workers, SpeechLanguage Pathologist and an Occupational Therapist support students at their Elementary and Secondary Schools. Contact Dr. Angela White, Superintendent, awhite@RisingGround.org.

Charter School of Educational Excellence 260 Warburton Ave, Yonkers 914- 476 -5070 charterschoolofeducational​ excellence.org CSEE encourages parents of students with special needs to apply as it provides Special Education Services for students with Individualized Education Plans (IEP). The school employs full-time certified resource room teachers, a school psychologist and counselors.

For other mandated services such as speech, occupational and physical therapy, CSEE works collaboratively with the student’s district of residence to provide these services at the school. CSEE’s director of special education services

meets with each new family to review their child’s IEP and mandated services at the time of enrollment to ensure all mandated IEP services can be provided by the school.

RockonMusicSchool RockonMusicSchool.com 914-489-0520 Music can be adapted for all skill levels to enjoy and participate.

At RockonMusicSchool, David Meyers employs his “Accessible Music” strategies to motivate, encourage and connect. Specializing in Special Needs Individuals (ages 6 – adult), each oneon-one session is personal and unique for your child.

Whether virtually or in-yourhome, the fun fast paced lessons will have you singing, laughing and playing your favorite instruments.

SAIL at Ferncliff Manor 1154 Saw Mill River Road Yonkers, NY 10710 914-968-4854 ext 1224 1 Cross Road Ardsley, NY 10502 914-591-5439 sailatferncliff.com sheila.chu@sailatferncliff.com The School for Adaptive and Integrative Learning (SAIL) at Ferncliff Manor, Inc. is a New York State Education Department approved private, nonpublic school program serving residential and day students with severe intellectual and developmental disabilities.

SAIL provides a wide range of supports and services including specialized instruction, intensive staff to student ratios, positive behavior interventions and

supports, social services, rehabilitative therapies, dietary programming, and living accommodations for children who require specialized care offered in a comprehensive residential setting.The program’s adaptive approach ensures that all students are able to learn successfully, via pathways tailored to meet their own unique needs. SELFDIRECTION APPROVED. Since 2017. For a limited time - Free complimentary Virtual Lesson

The Sensory Studio 1063 North Avenue, New Rochelle 917.612.0426 sensorystudionr@gmail.com sensorystudionr.com The Sensory Studio is a newly renovated Pediatric Occupational Therapy practice in New Rochelle, focussing on in person one to one therapy for children ages 3-12. The three OT’s have over 50 years worth of experience with children and specialize in sensory integration disorders, fine motor dexterity/ coordination, muscle strengthening, improving motor planning skills, and improving handwriting skills. Strict COVID medical guidelines will be adhered to & only one child will be in the gym at one time. Any questions, reach out to Laurie.

The Westchester School 45 Park Avenue , Yonkers, NY 10703 914-376-4300 westchesterschool.org The Westchester School is a New York State approved, non-public school that

We’re so Social

provides educational and therapeutic services to students from New York City, Westchester County, Long Island, and Connecticut. The school views all children, regardless of functioning level or handicapping condition, as children with potential for growth and development. Historically, educational programming, particularly for the severely handicapped was primarily concerned for easing the burden of those who cared for these children. Changes in legal standards and sociophilosophical perspectives made this an excessively limited and limiting approach.

The rationale for program and selection of educational objectives is based upon the developmental needs of the individual child.

Yellow Bus ABA Home and Center Based Care throughout NY, NJ & CT Center in Westchester 845 327 7111 Yellowbusaba.com info@yellowbusaba.com Yellow Bus ABA is a therapy group providing consultation and intervention services for individuals of all ages who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

They have drawn upon the unique strengths of their highly experienced team of behavior specialists to employ scientifically validated teaching methodology, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), to bring quality care and intervention with lasting results. Yellow Bus ABA offers home and center based care.

Follow us @newyorkfamily on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter and tag us #newyorkfamily in your New York adventures!

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WestchesterFamily.com | April 2021

The Westchester School

GRADES K-12 SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS

• NYS approved and funded non-public school providing therapeutic and educational services to students diagnosed with AU, MD, ID, OHI, OI, ED, & PWD, ages 3 - 21, with locations in Yonkers & North Salem • Ungraded, self-contained classrooms with a student to staff ratio of 12:1:4 & 8:1:2 in SchoolAged classrooms and a ratio of 10:1:2 in Preschool classrooms.

• Customized classroom instruction based on IEP goals, enhanced with SMART boards, IPads, and computers in every classroom

914-376-4300

&

• Counseling, Behavioral Services, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, as well as Speech and Language Therapy

Carol Frank Biondi Education Center

• Assistance with transitioning to post academic life by providing Vocational and Job Skill opportunities

Our Biondi Elementary School provides:

• Adaptive Physical Education and a Sensory Room

www.westchesterschool.org

National Association of Special Education Teachers School of Excellence

• Serving students with ED, LD, OHI & Autism Classifications • NYS Certified Teachers & Teaching Assistants • New York State Education Department Standards Based Curriculum (Reading, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Art, Physical Education)

• School Social Workers, Psychologists, Occupational & Speech Therapists • Transportation (provided by home school district)

Our Biondi Middle & High School provides:

in New Rochelle • Licensed & Experienced OT’s (Each therapist has over 23+ experience)

• Strict COVID Medical Guidelines

(One child in gym at one time)

• Newly Renovated Space Insurance Claims have covered 75%–100%

• Serving students with ED, LD & OHI classifications • NYS Certified Teachers & Teaching Assistants • New York State Education Department Standards Based Regents Curriculum (English, Mathematics, History/Social Studies, Science, Spanish, Art, Physical Education)

• Technology Integrated Instruction • Academies (Young Women Academy, Young Men Academy, Career and Technical Education Academy – Cosmetology, HVAC, Plumbing)

• Student Clubs & Activities • Section 1 & Club Sports • Guidance Counselor, School Social Workers, Psychologists, Occupational & Speech Therapists

Biondi Education Center

463 Hawthorne Avenue • Yonkers, NY 10705 • 914.375.8947 Approved by the New York State Education Department & accredited by the Middle States Association

917.612.0426 • sensorystudionr@gmail.com

www.sensorystudionr.com

RisingGround.org April 2021 | Westchester Family

15

Education

Montessori Then and Now How the schools' history shaped their response to the pandemic

by Mia SalaS

W

ith Montessori schools scattered throughout the five boroughs, you’ve probably already heard about this unique approach to education. Kids get to move at their own pace in multi-age classrooms where they have the freedom and support to develop independence, accountability, confidence, and integrity. While you may know the basics about Montessori, schools across NYC this past year and now in 2021 have adapted what education looks like, both in and outside of the classroom.

Montessori is at the forefront of this shift, leading in educational innovation and stellar communication. When choosing a school for your little scholar, that process now involves staying up-to-date with schools’ approaches to learning amidst a global pandemic. We’ve got the scoop on what a Montessori education looks like today so that you can be prepared

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WestchesterFamily.com | April 2021

when you apply for the 2021-2022 school year.

Before we dive into the present, let’s briefly throw it back to the past to understand how far Montessori has come. Most of us are familiar with the Montessori Method, but not necessarily with Montessori’s history. It all started in 1906 when Dr. Maria Montessori was invited to create a childcare center in San Lorenzo, a poor, inner-city district of Rome. Dr. Montessori observed how the students responded to hands-on learning experiences, and she designed unique learning materials for them.

And get this: many of those materials can still be found in Montessori classrooms today!

As word got out that Dr. Montessori’s school was thriving, she opened more schools in Italy, but there was also interest worldwide.

The first Montessori school in the U.S. opened in 1911, but what many people don’t know is that the Montessori Movement fizzled out around the 1920s. It wasn’t until the Montessori Method was rediscovered in the 1950s by

an aspiring NYC teacher, Nancy McCormick Rambusch, that Montessori education kicked off again. Today there are over 5,000 Montessori schools in the U.S. alone.

So now that we’re all caught up on how Montessori began, let’s check in on how it’s going. While all Montessori schools embrace the Montessori Method, many have developed programs in response to student’s needs. For example, there are now bilingual, immersivelanguage, and faith-based programs, as well as programs designed specifically for kids with special needs. Many NYC Montessori schools take advantage of their local environment, engaging with surrounding communities, and others also strive to connect students globally, encouraging cross-cultural relationships that extend beyond the city.

With such a strong history and ever-developing programs, it’s no surprise that Montessori persevered as a leader in education when the global pandemic hit. Prior to 2020, there has always been a lot of emphasis on the “Montessori Classroom” as this special space full of carefullydesigned learning materials and collaborative opportunities. But when kids could no longer be in the classroom, Montessori quickly found a way to adapt their methods into “Montessori

at Home”. Providing detailed guidance for how to prep your home and encourage the Montessori Method, the Montessori education was no longer limited to a classroom. Even though many Montessori schools have transitioned back to in-person or blended learning, this adaptability that they gained will long outlast the spread of COVID-19. Now parents can easily integrate and extend the Montessori method in their little ones’ everyday lives.

We also love Montessori’s focus on socialemotional well-being during these times.

Students have pre-planned mask breaks, meditation/relaxation time, room walks, and social interaction without physical touch.

Classroom activities were designed to reduce stress for teachers and students, and regular check-ins are scheduled with teachers to see how their students are feeling and what they are thinking about the “new normal”. During these difficult times, it is refreshing to know that Montessori cares not only about our kids’ physical health, but about their mental health and well-being too.

COVID-19 has brought us a lot of uncertainty, and Montessori recognizes how

Montessori has embraced creativity and innovation so that they can create the same warm, welcoming, and empowering environments that they have for decades. challenging that can be for parents. That’s why, Montessori quickly adapted into expert communicators with video announcements, teacher-parent communication worksheets, “how to” technology tutorials, self-care playlists, and much more. Montessori even keeps parents informed with relevant info outside of the Montessori network, such as the free New York Times digital edition for high school students and teachers through Sept. 1, 2021 so that they can stay up-to-date with the ever-changing climate. Montessori consistently updates their resources page so that parents have a go-to source for COVID-19-related information that affects kids and families.

Above all, it’s obvious that Montessori has embraced creativity and innovation so that they can create the same warm, welcoming, and empowering environments that they have for decades. COVID-19 has led to a collective

feeling of disconnection. And in a classroom where kids have to keep a distance from their friends, or at home where kids are in front of a computer screen for hours at a time, this feeling of disconnection impacts our little ones just as much as it does us. But what differentiates Montessori from other schools is their long history of perseverance-- of overcoming challenges, reshaping their goals, and growing as a tight-knit, supportive community. So while much has changed since last year, the Montessori Method, along with the warmth, collaboration, and self-confidence that it instills, has remained the same.

If you are interested in learning more about Montessori, you can find a school near you at https://amshq.org/Families/Find-A-School.

Many schools have virtual open houses and tours coming up soon, so sign-up to see if Montessori is the right fit for your family.

18 MONTHS - 8TH GRADE

April 2021 | Westchester Family

17

Montessori Directory | Special Advertising Supplement Opportunities for Bi-Lingual Assistant Teachers!

Montessori Teacher Training For Assistant Teachers • Sixteen week introductory starter training program with theory and practical MONTESSORI training on online and in person sessions • Training Program designed to familiarize Montessori materials to support Head Teachers while working in the field of Early Childhood educators • Spanish and French speaking instructors to benefit non English speakers • Opportunities for one year job placement as paid trainees in assistant teacher positions • Online support by experienced mentors after placement in a classroom setting

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340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle 914-636-6202 hudsoncountry.org Hudson Country Montessori School inspires and promotes innate curiosity and a love of learning through their progressive Montessori pedagogy. HCMS also strives to help children grow into respectful, socially-adept and compassionate leaders.

The curriculum is designed to empower students to become independent, creative thinkers and confident achievers. Private, co-educational school, toddlers (18 months) through 8th grade. Schedule a private tour today!

Liberty Montessori’s Summer Science Program

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+170

Hudson Country Montessori School

WestchesterFamily.com | April 2021

155 Beechmont Dr., New Rochelle, 636-3461 631 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, 777-1382 libertymontessorischools.com Liberty’s academic curriculum is presented to the students through an interdisciplinary curriculum, which integrates subjects for children ages 17 months to 7 years. Liberty’s new Academic Advantage Summer Science Program is being launched for students needing individual summer tutoring and Science fun while developing creative thinking skills to enhance hands on experiences. They invite parents to inquire about Liberty Montessori’s Indoor and Outdoor Summer Science Camp where young scientists inquire and explore.

Montessori Children’s Center (MCC) 220 Westchester Ave., West Harrison 914-607-7600 ktkorngold@cmteny.com montessorichildrensctr.com A year-round, full-time Montessori childcare facility, The Montessori Children’s Center (MCC) offers authentic Montessori programs for children 3 months to 5 years old.

Montessori certified head teachers and well-trained and supervised staff provide

excellent care and the highest quality Montessori education.

The Center for Montessori NY has been a leader in Montessori education since our founding. 30 years later, we have credentialed over 3,000 Montessori teachers and have opened our new location in West Harrison, NY.Call us and come see the Montessori difference! We are enrolling toddlers now for the September 2021-August 2022 program year.

Montessori School of Pelham Manor 1415 Pelhamdale Avenue, Bronx, New York 914-738-1127 pelhammontessori@gmail. com montessorischoolpelhamny. com Upholding a “tradition of excellence” for over 35 years, this school firmly holds to the principles of child development devised

by Dr. Maria Montessori.

Children ages 3 to 5 work with apparatus in a prepared environment progressing at their own rate, developing the confidence and love of learning that is the hallmark of Montessori. Our small class sizes make it easy for our instructors to find out how to best cater to your child’s unique learning needs.

Prepare your child for a lifetime of learning.

The Nurtury Montessori Schools 431 N. Ridge St., Rye Brook 11 North Brook Rd., Larchmont 2097 Palmer Ave., Larchmont 1144 North Ave., New Rochelle 1146 North Ave., New Rochelle 130 Flandreau Ave., New Rochelle 914- 632-6200 thenurtury-montessori.com The Nurtury is committed to promoting quality, full-time Montessori childcare for children ages six weeks to 6 years. The first six years of life are when intelligence and personality are formed. We significantly understand this concept, and as a result, The Nurtury has set the standard for full-time Montessori childcare. Contact bbnanny@ gmail.com directly for more information.

Come See See the Difference Come See the Difference Come See the the Difference Difference Come Come See the Difference

Give Your Child the Best in Early Childhood Education

MONTESSORI SCHOOL in PELHAM A Tradition of Excellence since 1973

MONTESSORI - AGES 3-6 • TODDLERS - AGES 2-3

Year-round, full-time Montessori childcare for children from 3 months to 5 years full-time of age inMontessori beautifully designed Montessori environments.

Year-round, childcare for children from months Year-round, full-timeMontessori Montessorichildcare childcarefor forchildren childrenfrom from3333months months Year-round, Year-round,full-time Montessori childcare for children from months Infants, Toddlers, Early Childhood classrooms.

Openings now. to 5 years age inand beautifully designed Montessori environments. years agein inbeautifully beautifully designed Montessori environments. toto 55 years ofof designed Montessori environments. to 5 yearsof ofage age in beautifully designed Montessori environments.

Infants, and Early Childhood classrooms.

Openings now.

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Infants, Toddlers, Infants,Toddlers, and Early Childhood classrooms.

Openings now.

Experienced, trained Montessori teachers provide supportive, joyful, Experienced, trained Montessori Experienced, trained Montessori Experienced, trained Montessori Experienced, Montessori and nurturing classrooms for learning teachers provide supportive, joyful, teachers provide supportive, joyful, teachers provide supportive, joyful, teachers supportive, joyful, and development during your child’s and nurturing classrooms for learning and classrooms for learning and nurturing classrooms for learning and nurturing classrooms learning important early years. for and development during your child’s and during your child’s and development during your child’s and development during your child’s important early years. important years. important early important

Please call for more information or to schedule a visit.

Register Now for 2021/2022!

Please formore moreinformation information or to schedule visit.

Please callfor information or toschedule scheduleaaavisit. visit.

Please call information or to schedule K.T. Korngold, Directoror 914-607-7600 Please to

Call for Open House Dates

1415 Pelhamdale Ave. (at Shore Rd.) • Pelham, NY

914.738.1127 • montessorischoolpelhamny.com

220 Korngold, Westchester Ave, West Harrison, NY 10604 Director 914-607-7600 Korngold, Director K.T. Director 914-607-7600 K.T. 914-607-7600 Director 914-607-7600 www.montessorichildrensctr.com 220 WestchesterAve, Ave, West Harrison, NY 10604 220 Westchester Ave,West WestHarrison, Harrison,NY NY10604 10604 220 220 Westchester West Harrison, NY 10604 www.montessorichildrensctr.com www.montessorichildrensctr.com www.montessorichildrensctr.com www.montessorichildrensctr.com

A full AMS member full AMS full AMS school full AMS AAAA full AMS member licensed by member member member school school NYOCFS school school licensed by licensed by licensed by licensed by NYOCFS NYOCFS NYOCFS NYOCFS

OVER 46 YEARS OF EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE AND LOVING CARE Liberty Montessori Schools Pushpa Jagoda Ph.D “I wanted to create an ideal learning environment for all children as I did for my own.”

Toddler through Pre-K 155 Beechmont Drive New Rochelle, NY (914) 636-3461 Pre-K through Elementary 631 West Boston Post Road Mamaroneck, N.Y. 10543 (914) 777-1382 libertymontessorischools.com

With the vision to serve the needs of young children and their families, Pushpa Jagoda has fulfilled a lifelong dream as educator and mother. As director and founder of the Liberty Montessori Schools, she successfully owns and operates two preschool facilities that have become a “home away from home” for children 18 months through 3rd grade. “I wanted to create an ideal learning environment for all children as I did for my own,” explains Pushpa Jagoda, herself a Montessori graduate and mother of three. “My goal was to set up a nurturing environment where we understand and are sensitive to the overall needs of the contemporary child. Our open-door policy allows parents to observe classes and to participate in their activities. We encourage parent involvement and welcome feedback on how to best serve each child’s individual needs.” A busy mother, Dr. Jagoda’s centers are state-of-the-art facilities designed to accommodate yearround childcare. They offer a creative, personal approach to learning in the Montessori tradition with a loving, qualified staff that provide a safe, exciting place for children. “Our schools are wonderfully diverse,” says Dr. Jagoda. “We have bilingual teachers who teach languages such as French, German, Chinese, Spanish and Japanese as well as cultural awareness. We offer music, arts and crafts, math, reading, computer and science in an international setting.” The schools offer Kindergarten and Third Grade Montessori Enrichment Programs and unique Challenger Programs, designed to stimulate the intellectually advanced student who are already enrolled in the Montessori program and met all prerequisites. The fun-filled Liberty summer science camp, held during July and August, is designed to motivate the curious young scientist between the ages 18 months and 7 years. They welcome new families to visit or tour either location by appointment only. (Extended after hours for working parents.)

April 2021 | Westchester Family

19

baby

Liquid Gold The New York Milk Bank distributes donor breast milk to local families in need

By Donna Duarte-LaDD

D

eciding to breastfeed a baby is a personal decision for all mothers.

There are significant benefits to feeding a baby breast milk. The American Pregnancy Association shares that, “Breast milk has the perfect combination of proteins, fats, vitamins, and carbohydrates. There is nothing better for the health of your baby.

Leukocytes are living cells that are only found in breast milk. They help fight infection. It is the antibodies, living cells, enzymes, and hormones that make breast milk ideal. These cannot be added to the formula. “ But some mothers may find themselves in a position where they are unable to breastfeed, and one solution they may want to consider is donor milk. Or, if you are a mother with a surplus of milk, donate your “liquid gold” to a milk bank. An while we are in the midst of a pandemic, this has not stopped mothers from receiving or donating breastmilk.

We touched base with Executive Director Julie Bouchet-Horwitz of The New York Milk Bank to learn more about their organization and donor breastmilk.

What is The New York Milk Bank, and how did it come about?

The NY Milk Bank collects extra breastmilk from healthy lactating women, pasteurizes it, and distributes it to babies in need. We opened in 2016 after fundraising to open the first milk bank located in New York State. Our primary purpose is to save the lives of premature infants. With advances in medical technology, babies can be saved as early as 23 weeks gestation. These infants may weigh as little as one pound. Their mothers have not completed the pregnancy and often do not make enough breast milk. If fed anything other than human milk, they are at risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a devastating illness that has a high mortality rate and lifelong complications for survivors. But there is a solution. We can reduce the incidence of NEC by feeding these babies donor human milk.

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My interest in donor milk came about after I adopted a baby from China who was a “failure to thrive” infant. I fed her donor milk, and she thrived, and years later, when I returned to the workforce, I realized that there was no donor milk in NY state. I began a campaign to educate hospitals, nurses, and the public on the need for donor milk in NY. We fundraised, bought equipment, learned about milk banking, wrote policies and procedures, acquired our license, and opened in 2016. We have distributed over 700,000 ounces of donor milk since opening.

With the COVID Pandemic, is there more of a need for donated milk?

Not really. We do have a deferral period of 28 days if a mother has COVID or was exposed to COVID. But in the Spring, during the first wave of the pandemic, milk donations increased because mothers who worked and pumped were home with their babies and did not need their pumped milk. Now that women are returning to work or have settled into a new routine, milk donations are typical. But we are always looking for more donors!

Is the milk safe?

Yes! We screen the donors for all infectious diseases, including COVID. We need health clearance from both the mother and the baby’s providers, we test the blood of the donors, and then we pasteurize the milk. Our process re-

tains the immunological properties of the milk while killing bacteria and inactivating viruses.

Then we send a random sample of the milk to an outside laboratory to test it for bacteria.

So our milk is extremely safe and undergoes excellent quality control methods.

How can a mother donate milk?

If she has at least 150 ounces of extra breastmilk, she can call us at 212-956-6455 or email us at ordermilk@nymilkbank.org to begin the screening process. It starts with a 20-minute phone call, and if she passes, we send her a Complete Donor Packet that needs to be filled out. It is a lifestyle and history review. Then we need medical clearance from her and her baby’s provider. Then we send her to a lab to have her blood drawn.

Are there any costs involved?

No. We pay for everything, the lab test, the cooler and box to ship milk, and if she is continuing to pump, we send her bags to store her milk.

How can a family receive milk?

They need a prescription for donor milk and can fill out some forms on our website under Receive Milk. We provide donor milk to babies at home, adopted and foster babies, babies born through surrogacy, or in gay families. As long as we have enough milk, we can spread the liquid gold!

New Settlement will be OPEN for your kids this summer!

GROUP SWIM Registration starts: 6/29 Members 7/1 Non-Members

NATACION EN GRUPO Inscripciones empizan 6/29 miembro 7/1 no-miembro

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS Registration starts: 6/29 Members 7/1 Non-Members

ARTES MARCIALES MIXTAS Inscripciones empizan 6/29 miembro 7/1 no-miembro

CONTEMPORARY/MODERN BALLET Registration starts: 6/29 Members 7/1 Non-Members

BALLET CONTEMPORÁNEA /MODERNO Inscripciones empizan 6/29 miembro 7/1 no-miembro

MUSIC Registration starts: 6/29 Members 7/1 Non-Members

MUSICA Inscripciones empizan 6/29 miembro 7/1 no-miembro

*Memberships starting as low as $50

*Membresias anual comenzando tan bajo como $50

Registration ends on 7/3 La inscription termina en 7/3

Check out our new site!

We’ve given our Westchester Family website a major makeover Visit westchesterfamily.com to check it out and sign up for our weekly newsletters!

April 2021 | Westchester Family

21

Get Organized!

Expert advice on how to spring clean your pantry in 5 steps

By Laura KinseLLa Founder of Urban Organyze

always best to stick with good old fashioned hot, soapy water!

I

t’s hard to believe we’ve been pandemic living for an entire year now! There’s no doubt our kitchens have been working round the clock for our families, and it’s time to give them the TLC they deserve.

Whether you’re swimming in pandemic related backstock items, or just need to hit the ole reset button to clear the clutter, I’m breaking down how to clear out and spring clean your pantry in 5 easy steps: So let’s break it down, shall we?

What you’ll need before you begin: • A vacuum/hand vac • Hot soapy water or preferred cleaning solution • Cleaning Cloths or sponge • Sharpie & Post-its • Measuring Tape • Label Maker or Paint Pen 1. Clear everything out. Yes, everything.

With spring in full swing, now’s the time to dive in, and give your kitchen the deep clean it needs. Whether your pantry is a single cabinet or a full sized closet, here’s how to begin: • Pull items out one by one and place them on your counters, kitchen table, or if you’re really low on space, the floor!

Don’t worry about what you’re pulling out or where it needs to go (what is that sticky stuff on that can of beans anyway?), just focus on emptying every nook and cranny of your dedicated pantry. We don’t want to get too caught up in our feelings towards an item, so it may be best to set a 15-20 minute timer or enlist your kids to get the emptying done!

2. Wipe it down • Grab your vacuum or hand vac to do

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WestchesterFamily.com | April 2021

Francesca Russell Photography

Laura Kinsella, founder of Urban Organyze some of the initial work for you. Crumbs, dust, and all kinds of debris can sit loosely on the shelves, so give it a once over first. • Depending on the type of cabinets you have, will depend on the best method to clean them. Hot, soapy water with a sponge or cleaning cloth is always a good option, but you can also utilize an all-purpose cleaner, white vinegar, or even baking soda (especially for those sticky spots!) Give your cabinets a thorough clean, and be sure to wipe them completely dry once you’re done.

Pro tip: we all know how precious Clorox wipes have been, and if you’ve managed to grab a few, be sure to save those for your counters, doorknobs or high traffic zones.

Although they work on all hard, non-porous surfaces, they can discolor or eat away at certain finishes or sealants. This is why it’s

3. Edit & Take Inventory It’s true that we don’t really know how much or what we have until it’s all staring us in the face. This is where you’ll need to roll up your sleeves a bit to assess what you have.

• Toss anything expired, stale, or near empty (also known in my house as the triscuit box with exactly 1 1/2 crackers left - thanks family!)

• Separate unused, non-expired, questionable items (if you have to think about whether you would consume it, or how you would begin to cook with it, it’s a go.)

We want to make sure we are setting aside anything worthy of being donated. If there ever was a time to phone a neighbor to see if they may need something you would never use, now is it!

• Take inventory of your remaining items and start to group them into broad categories of what they are and how you use them. This can be as simple as breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, or you can further categorize how you see fit: canned goods, pasta, grains, baking, kids snacks, etc. The last thing we want to do is overly categorize and complicate our systems, so aim for 10 categories or less.

If you’re swimming in Costco sized quantities (15 boxes of mac & cheese), or pandemic related items (extra water or canned food), place those items in a separate category labeled “bulk” or “backstock” so that multiples aren’t cluttering those everyday zones.

Pro tip: Place items that overlap categories in 1 single category that makes the most sense to you. For example, if you consider applesauce a snack and a baking staple, but more often utilize when you bake, place ALL of your applesauce in the baking category. We don’t want it in both because

Deep shelves? Try deep bins! Tricky corner? Try a lazy Susan! Sprawling drawers?

Try a few drawer dividers! Have fun with it, and choose containment that elevates your style and that will work seamlessly for you and your family. I love utilizing products that are wipeable (glass, plastic, etc.), or have a machine washable lining (inside certain woven baskets) for ease of cleaning and overall upkeep.

Once everything is contained, it’s time to label! I recommend utilizing a label maker, or simply hand writing labels with a paint pen. Customize the categories with language you and your family use (ie: if you refer to pasta as “noodles”, label it noodles!) Labels are essential, as they make everyone in your family accountable, from putting groceries away in their proper place, to taking inventory before a grocery shop, or simply for setting limits on what gets overly stocked.

Pro tip: When organizing, consider decanting frequently used items (that you buy week after week) into air tight containers like your favorite snack or cereal. Packaging can be cumbersome and bulky, and while there is an initial time investment with this method, your pantry items will keep fresh longer, and you’ll have a clear visual when something is running low (no more near-empty boxes of triscuits or cereal!)

Francesca Russell Photography

Labels are essential, as they make everyone in your family accountable. we will inevitably forget it’s stored in multiple spots, and we’ll mistakenly keep replacing it.

4. Put it all back Once you’ve determined what’s remaining, give everything a good wipe down, and assign “homes”, or a designated spot for each category to live. Frequently used items should go in those prime real estate areas so they are within easy reach for you. Try space planning by writing down the category names on post-its, and placing them on your shelves or drawers to test the flow before anything gets put away.

Don’t forget about items your kids need to access themselves (think healthier grab ’n go items lower down), as well as items you don’t wish for them to have easy access to (like that secret stash candy jar above

the fridge because moms should be allowed to snack in peace too!)

5. Contain & Label This is everyone’s favorite part (your hard work is about to pay off big time!), but it’s important to resist the urge to excitedly purchase organizational products before measuring.

While categories help you determine how much containment you need, taking careful measurements is the only way to ensure what will actually fit (and maximize) your space. You may have a few organizational items on hand already, or you may wish to completely streamline and start anew. No matter how you choose to contain, don’t skip this essential step!

Remember, there is no right or wrong here when it comes to the hub of your home, as long as the solution is practical and manageable for you and your family!

Laura Kinsella is the founder of Urban Organyze, a New York based home organizing company that transforms your mess into meaning and clutter into calm. Since 2015, Laura has empowered hundreds of women to gain more clarity and control, by creating homes that are efficient, elegant, and easily adapt with the demands of a growing family. As a born and bred New Yorker and mom to a growing preschooler, Laura’s mission is to support fellow moms towards their vision of a healthier, lighter, and more organized life. Laura has been featured in New York Post, New York Family, Apartment Therapy and more. For inspo, please visit www.urbanorganyze.com, or follow @ urbanorganyze.

April 2021 | Westchester Family

23

Camps Are Back!

Camps will be back virtually and in-person this Summer, and many shared what they are excited about this season!

“We are excited to be back outdoors in the wonderful sun, grass, and fresh air at Oasis in Dobbs Ferry @ Mercy College.

We expect to follow all the NYS Department of Health Guidelines and more with regard to masking, social distancing, and sanitation while making sure all the kids know is fun and exciting activities with their friends. It is the kids’ summer experience and we will make sure it is a great one.

“Activities at camp are inherently playful: staff and campers alike participate in sports such as tennis, swimming, play chess, express themselves through art projects and learn new skills with our STEAM program. While health and safety precautions are undoubtedly in full force at summer camp, imagination and creativity are what we offer everyday!”

— Advantage Camps

— Alla Zaydman, Vice President of Administration and Operations, Oasis Day Camps

“At Gate Hill Day Camp, we are most excited about reconnecting with our community this summer. We know that our campers and staff need camp more than ever, and we can’t wait to give them a summer that they will never forget!”

— Gate Hill Day Cam

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“After a year of pandemic isolation and virtual camp, I am so excited to see some normalcy — swimming and soccer, arts and crafts and the zip line. But more exciting than that — seeing and hearing kids laugh, and watching them bond with each other and make new friends — those magical moments that can only occur in-person at camp.”

— 92Y Camps

“Liberty’s new Academic Advantage Summer Science Program is being launched for students needing Summer individual tutoring and Science fun while developing creative thinking skills to enhance hands-on experiences. We invite parents to inquire about our Liberty Montessori Indoor and outdoor Summer Science Camp, where young scientists inquire and explore.”

“Having students back in the building and getting to learn and have fun while in a safe and friendly environment! ” — Cardinal Spellman High School Pilots Enrichment Program (PEP)

— Liberty Montessori Schools

“Campers can expect Swimming classes, arts & crafts, group games, intro into iMovie, and intro to coding and Robotics, and much more!” — New Settlement Summer Camp

“Throughout our program, we will be following the safety guidelines provided by the NYS Health Department in regards to maskwearing, social distancing, hand hygiene, and proper cleaning and disinfecting.”

— Hudson Country Day Camp

“Our campers can expect a fun summer that will combine learning and fun.

Campers will participate in daily instruction for mathematics and reading using iPad technology. Campers will have a daily robotics class as well as specials such as arts and crafts, science projects, dance, sports, and outdoor games. Through these activities, students will have the opportunity to make lasting friendships.

After a year and a half pause for many students of regular activities, we will focus on the social and emotional health of our campers.”

— St. Catharine Academy Camp

“Our campers will be enriched by math, English, reading coding, logic, TACHS preparation, sports, art, music appreciation.”

— St. Barnabas Camp

“We are so looking forward to being back on campus for summer fun and enjoying the outdoors with our campers.

— Thornton Donovan

April 2021 | Westchester Family

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The Warrior

of Westchester The New York Stylist shares details about her pandemic pregnancy, her new suburban life, and her tips on how to shop sustainably

By Cris Pearlstein

I

couldn’t help but fall in love with Liz Teich when I saw her signature at the bottom of our first email exchange. It read like a disclaimer: “Please note that I’m a mom in a pandemic and will likely be delayed in responding to my emails. Thank you for understanding.” If these two sentences don’t capture the essence of what this past year has been—especially for moms—I don’t know what does. Of course I can relate to her sentiment, and I’m sure you can, too. What I can’t relate to though, is having a baby while in the midst of a global pandemic. But that’s exactly what Teich did—and the world took notice. An image of her immediately post-labor, breastfeeding for the first time, with her fist proudly in the air went viral, as new and soon-to-be mamas around the country were rallying lawmakers to allow them to keep their partners in the delivery rooms with them. At that point protocols were changing almost daily, but for many, just the thought of having to give birth alone was terrifying.

Teich was luckily able to have her husband in the room, but he was forced to leave immediately after, as per the hospital policy. The image captured what so many women around the country were going through, and symbolized this unique moment in time.

If you don’t know Teich from that fist-in-theair viral photo, then you probably know her from her gorgeously romantic-feeling, feminine blog and Instagram platform, The New York Stylist, where she doles out everything from practical fashion advice (a recent Reel teaches followers how to roll up their sleeves like a stylist. Hint: rubber bands!), to decor tips (she just moved to Westchester), to ways her readers can

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be greener when it comes to their beauty and gettingdressed routines (see sidebar). She is very passionate about sustainability, both in her personal life and when it comes to the brands she works with. In fact, this past year she even vowed to only shop sustainably and so all of her clothing purchases (along with her husband’s and kids’) have been from small businesses that employ sustainable practices, or through clothing rental services. And before making any purchase she uses the Good On You app to make sure it meets her standards.

She’s a woman after my own green heart.

But her Instagram feed is more than just a place for her to share style solutions and decor tips. It’s become a place where she deeply connects with other moms beyond fashion. Her platform is a lifeline for her to reach other moms going through similar experiences— whether that’s giving birth during a pandemic or figuring out how to dress your body after baby—and feel less alone in the process. She thinks of herself as a cheerleader to her almost-36,000 followers, which not only helps them, but in a way forces her to be stronger, too. It’s a lifting-each-other-up community vibe that we could all use right about now. Read on to hear about her move, her pandemic pregnancy, and her mission to spread the word of sustainability.

What brought you to Westchester? How do you like it compared to where you used to live? What do you miss about your Brooklyn life?

We lived in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn for 12 years when we found out we were having a second baby.

We thought we’d stay in Brooklyn forever and only have one kid, but when we decided to have another we realized we were quickly outgrowing our two bedroom

Fashion credits: ON LIZ: The Great dress sold at Lexie (19 E 9th St, NY, NY, Lexie.com), Selva Negra headband (selvanegra.us ), Lauren Gabrielson earrings (laurengabrielson.com), Monica Rich Kossan necklace (monicarichkosann.com), Alex and Ani bracelets (alexandani.com), Just Bead It By Rachel custom bracelet (justbeaditbyrachel.com); ON ASHER: The Great sweatshirt and sweatpants sold separately at Lexie (19 E 9th St, NY, NY, Lexie.com); ON ANDI: Louise Misha dress and Riley & Cru headband, sold separately at Lexie (19 E 9th st NY NY Lexie.com)

Photo by Yumi Matsuo

April 2021 | Westchester Family

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Liz’s 3 Ways to Shop Sustainably: 1. Support small retailers that carry multiple sustainable brands like Av Norden and The Verticale, or shop brands, like Catbird and Grey State Apparel, that have sustainability baked into their DNA. 2 When it comes to larger retailers, like Shopbop and Net-a-Porter, use the filter and sort features on their website to see only sustainable options

within the category you’re shopping.

3. Renting clothing instead of buying is a great way to lower your environmental impact.

Tulerie is a NY mom owned peer to peer designer clothing rental. I’ve been a member of Rent the Runway for years, and I love Romp + Tumble for my kids. I also buy and sell pre-owned pieces for the whole family on Poshmark.

apartment. We were also noticing that our son Asher, now 4 years old, was his happiest when we would go on vacation and he had space to run and explore in nature.

He always felt like a caged animal when we returned to our place. Still, I was pretty reluctant to move to the suburbs, so we settled on New Rochelle because it’s the most like living in Brooklyn—it has diversity, playgrounds, good food, it’s easy to get around, and there are lots of city transplants. And surprisingly, it’s also a quicker commute to Midtown than where we lived in Brooklyn! We love living in a house with kids, but we do miss a lot about our Brooklyn life, especially the walkability. The best part about living there was walking outside of our apartment door and having all the best bookstores, restaurants, coffee shops, clothing stores, and even the subway, all within two blocks. I loved that we would walk down the street and run into everyone we knew and have impromptu get-togethers.

I miss the sense of community, but now after a visit to the city it’s a treat to drive 30-40 minutes back to our house and enjoy all the space and quiet!

How has becoming a mom changed the blogging experience for you? How has the pandemic changed it?

I became a blogger 10 years ago because I wanted to share my expert perspective from working in the fashion industry for years. I started my career at a high-end fashion brand, so I learned the design and production side of fashion first. I then became an art director working on advertising campaigns. My favorite part of those jobs was working on the photoshoots and seeing the concept come to life, so after my stint in advertising I decided to get back into fashion.

When I became a mom, I felt caught between two worlds of fashion and mommy blogging. But when I started sharing my experiences of motherhood more and more, moms around the country began to message me with questions about dressing for their postpartum body and new life. This led to me to start offering personal styling services, which is very rewarding because I get to make my clients feel better about themselves through clothing.

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The pandemic has shifted my business once again.

While I’ve styled a couple of in-person shoots, I’ve been mostly focusing on virtual personal styling, as well as my blog and Instagram feed. I gave birth at the beginning of the pandemic, so it gave me a platform to voice my fears and help other moms to feel less alone.

My Instagram post after giving birth went viral—I think it resonated with so many pregnant women living in fear at the time and I received so many messages about how that powerful image and my words helped give so many others strength. I always say that we really are warriors to be giving birth during this time and our pandemic babies are going to be so resilient because their mamas are! My pandemic baby (Andi, now one year old) is so tough and amazes me daily.

Can you talk about the journey of having your second kid last year? How did you cope with the stress of giving birth during a pandemic?

This pregnancy was planned, after suffering a miscarriage prior, and she was supposed to be my rainbow baby—but we moved when I was 8 months pregnant, and then two weeks later I found myself in the epicenter of a “containment zone” in a global pandemic. It was absolutely terrifying because all we knew about the virus at that time was that it was extremely contagious and that affected pregnant women even more. The idea of going to doctors appointments and the hospital during the initial peak of the pandemic kept me up at night. I think Instagram was my outlet for combating anxiety during that time because I was able to talk to other moms going through the same experience, which helped me feel less alone. I did a virtual reiki/energy healing session with my friend Erin The Urban Mermaid, that helped give me clarity and peace before the birth. I practiced hypnobirthing techniques and did the meditations every night before bed to release any thoughts of anxiety as well. I also loved rubbing drops of lavender essential oil on my temples, and taking Calm-a-Mama drops.

How has your style changed since becoming a mom?

How has it changed during the pandemic?

It’s become less fussy and more effortless. I used to focus on trends and put together “outfits.” When I became a mom four years ago, I realized I needed to reevaluate how I shop and how I dress. I now focus on timeless pieces that work together easily, and I also constantly edit my closet. There’s no more agonizing over what to wear because I truly love everything I own. I love helping other moms get to that point too, through my closet cleanses and filling in the holes they are missing to round out their wardrobe. My general rule is to start with a good pair of jeans that make you feel like you can take on the world. Then add a quality sweater, button down, or even a great tee and casual blazer. These combos are easy uniforms to take you from momming to Zooming. I personally have been

loving puff-sleeve button down tops (like ones from Dôen), and feminine midi-dresses because they make me feel effortlessly put together.

What was your single best pandemic purchase? The item you don’t ever want to live without?

I honestly didn’t purchase much this last year because I was focused on saving money, decorating my new home, and dressing the baby—the kids now have better wardrobes than me! But the best investment has been my Allbirds slip-on sneakers that are my everyday house shoes. They’re the most comfortable things I’ve ever worn on my feet—and they’re sustainable! I also highly recommend investing in cashmere sweatpants for a luxe athleisure look. I had never worn athleisure outside the house unless I was going to work out, but I now love my polished sweats and am not ashamed to wear them.

Photo by Yumi Matsuo

Liz’s Guide to Westchester: Favorite coffee shop/cafe: The Grange (in Larchmont) Their avocado toast and cold brew coffee are my go-to!

Favorite kids store: Penny & Ting (in Ossining) Favorite takeout spot: The Taco Project (in Bronxville) Favorite date-night spot: We sadly haven’t had any yet since we moved, but we’ve had family dates at La La Taqueria in Larchmont—they have outdoor igloos!

Favorite outdoor kids activity: Walking around Five Islands Park (in New Rochelle) and Ward Acres Park (in New Rochelle) Favorite food market: DeCicco & Sons (in Larchmont) is comparable to any NYC food market and their tortilla chips are our addiction.

Favorite gift shop: If and when I see other humans, I’ll probably pick up gifts at Village Mercantile (in Larchmont).

Let’s talk about your focus on sustainability—how important is it to you? And who do you think is getting it right in the industry?

Sustainable fashion has actually been a passion of mine for a long time. Through working in fashion over the years, I saw the impact made on the environment firsthand. But it wasn’t until I styled a celebrity who requested only sustainable and ethically-made clothing a few years ago that I really did the research and learned what goes into the production of what we wear from major retailers—everything from the chemicals, to the waste, to the water consumption and even the poor labor practices. I think H&M Group (H&M, & Other Stories, and Cos) is really paving the way for major retailers to take action. The Shop Conscious collections are a good start, and they’ve forced other fast-fashion retailers, like Zara, to follow suit with their own sustainably-made collections. Also, the H&M fabric recycling program has paved the way for other popular retailers like Madewell to do something similar.

Maintaining sustainability is definitely a challenge being a fashion stylist with a love for clothing, but I do hope the more we all talk about it, the more it will just become the standard.

Now that there seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel of this pandemic, what are you most looking forward to? Is there anything about going back to “normal” that you’re dreading?

I’m looking forward to working with people in person again—one of my favorite aspects of my job is connecting with people and I miss that. I also miss going to events and seeing all of my industry friends and other mommy bloggers. It’s also been hard to not have much interaction with the outside world for the baby, and I can’t wait to have play dates, go to classes, and meet other local moms. I’m dreading that I’ll be working so much and won’t have time for my family like I have now. I’ve been trying to appreciate that while I can!

April 2021 | Westchester Family

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FAMILY DAY OUT

Yayoi Kusama Brings Her Art to Botanical Garden

BY COURTNEY INGALLS & ANALIESE DODD

N

ew York Botanical Garden has announced the 2021 Exhibition KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature, Featuring New Work by Celebrated Japanese Artist Yayoi Kusama will finally be coming this spring! After having to wait for a year due to COVID-19, the Kusama exhibit is opening for the world to see. This exhibit will be the firstever comprehensive exploration of the artist’s lifelong fascination with the natural world and takes place across the Garden’s 250 acres and in its historic buildings.

Trying to find more activities to get involved with this spring? Check out NYC Spring Bucket List: 30 Family-Friendly Things to do in Spring 2021 Some of the debuts being shown are Flower Obsession, Kusama’s first obliteration greenhouse where visitors apply coral flower stickers throughout the inside; Dancing Pumpkins, a monumental 16-foothigh sculpture presented on the Haupt Conservatory Lawn; Infinity Mirrored

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Room- Illusion Inside the Heart, an immersive outdoor installation responding to changing light throughout the day and seasons; and I Want to Fly to the Universe, a bright colored 13-foot-high biomorphic yellow face with polka dots.

Not only will the exhibit be showing off Kusama’s new pieces, but it will also include works from throughout her career and multifaceted practice. Some of the pieces that will be shown are sketchbooks that show Kusama’s connection with the natural world from a young age, as well as her botanical sketches, paintings, biomorphic collages, and many more depictions of her famous work.

The New York Botanical Gardens staff has been working hard to ensure that this exhibit will be memorable and safe for everyone who visits. Carrie Rebora Barratt, Ph.D., CEO & The William C. Steere Sr. President of The New York Botanical Garden said, “ This once-in-a-lifetime presentation will stand apart from previous exhibitions of Yayoi Kusama’s work because it is rooted in the artist’s profound and enduring exploration of

nature and its countless manifestations that evoke meanings that are both personal and universal.”

Get Your Tickets Now The Kusama exhibit is opening April 10th and will be available through October 31st, which will provide the opportunity for guests and visitors to explore Kusama’s work throughout the changing seasons as new plantings, textures, and palettes are introduced! Tickets are $35 for adults, $15 for children 2-12, and free for children under 2. There are some discounts available for students and seniors that can be seen on the website here.

The exhibit takes place mainly outdoors, but tickets are limited for each day to allow for social distancing. Tickets will be for a time-entry of one hour, and tickets should be purchased in advanced to ensure entry. If you purchased tickets for entry to the exhibit last year, you’ll have access to pre-sale tickets through the email you originally purchased tickets with.

Tickets for the general public will go on sale starting March 16th in several phases beginning with dates through June 30th.

Tickets will sell out fast, and we encourage you to get in on this incredible exhibit before it’s gone. Don’t waste another moment and get ready for a great event that will add a little more color to your spring plans!

THE NEW YORK FAMILY

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Go to NewYorkFamily.com/CampConcierge and fill out a few questions Or call our Camp Concierge Hotline at 718-260-8310 Give us 24 hours and our camp experts will match you with the best camps for your child.

For any additional questions, please email us at campconcierge@newyorkfamily.com

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