Brooklyn Family - February 2022

February 2022

newyorkfamily.com

Neha Ruch of Mother Untitled on leaning in — in a new direction

Register for our

Camp Fairs See page 31

Kid-Friendly TikTok Accounts

Yummy & Easy Valentine’s Day Treats

Now including

Brooklyn Parent Read more on page 6

Professional.

Safety Minded.

Dynamic.

Caring.

LOCATIONS Carroll Gardens, Park Slope, Windsor Terrace PROGRAMS -

Traditional Camp Sports Academy On Wheels Travel Camp Leadership Experience for Teens Presidents Week Mini Camp Join us for an online Info Session!

718.788.7732 www.parkslopedaycamp.com

Give your child a

Foundation For Life Today

Catholic Education can provide the ABC’s they need!

The ABC’s to a Foundation for Life: Academics: Embracing academic rigor & student support.

Your child deserves a Catholic Education. catholicschoolsBQ.org or 718-965-7380

Belief: Celebrating Catholic values & faith in God. Character: Putting what they know & what they believe into action for good!

February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

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contents

February 2022 NewYorkFamily.com

pg. 12

pg.30 pg. 28

pg. 26

FEATURES 8 | Podcasts 8 fun and educational picks 12 | Education Considering a Catholic school education 26 | Cover- Neha Ruch The @MotherUntitled founder on leaning in — in a new direction 30 | Tech The 9 best kid-friendly TikTok accounts

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Stories & columns 6 | Editor’s Note 24 | Camp Camps for kids with special needs

pg. 24

Directories 16 | Charter School Listings 22 | Education Listings 24 | Camp Listings

28 | Food Valentine’s Day sweet treats

on the Cover Photo: Yumi Matsuo | yumimatsuostudio.com Makeup: Corey Sanders | coreysandersmakeup.com Written by: Cris Pearlstein | crispearlstein.com

Home. Community. Giving. Gratitude.

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Editor’s Note

NewYorkFamily.com Publisher: Clifford Luster Executive Director: Donna Duarte-Ladd Associate Publisher: Erin Brof Advertising Director: Stacie Goldberg Digital Editor: Courtney Ingalls Senior Adviser: Susan Weiss Partnership Managers: Lauren Alperin, Lauren Anchin, Joan Bergman, Mary Cassidy, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, Annene Guertin, LynnMarie Hanley, Lisa Herlihy, Janine Mulé, Selene Rodriguez, Nina Spiegelman, Gwen Tomaselli Marketing & Strategy Director: Rosalia Bobé Sales & Marketing Coordinator: Mykael Fields Art Director: Leah Mitch Nina Gallo Photography

February — Bold Moves We’re thrilled to share that New York Family is growing as we have merged with New York Metro Parents, (publishers of Big Apple Parent, Brooklyn Parent, Queens Parent, Westchester Parent, Long Island Parent, Staten Island Parent and Rockland Parent), who are now part of New York Family Media. We are excited to expand our reach as well and focus more on the early stages of parenting with Mommybites.com and the community of families planning a Bar or Bat Mitzvah with Mitzvahmarket.com.

And there is the keyword… community.

We do this because we are also parents, and we get it — we want our readers to be fully informed, as having thoughtful information

is a huge key to parenting our kids. So expect more — articles, guides, and advice on newyorkfamily.com and directories, event profiles at nymetroparents.com.

This month in our February issue, you’ll find Camp (page 24), Education (page 22), and Charter School Listings (page 16), all to guide you and your family. For our February cover we have an insightful profile of Neha Ruch of Mother Untitled on being a SAHM the gray area of motherhood and leaning into a new direction.

New direction? We’re all in!

Donna and New York Family Media

Web Developer: Sylvan Migdal Graphic Designers: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti Editor at large: Cris Pearlstein Editorial Contributors: Jana Beauchamp, Mia Salas Editorial Interns: Océane Goriou, Kilani Sierra, Liana Vazquez

Contact Information

ADVERTISING: (718) 260-4554 Advertising@NewYorkFamily.com Circulation: (718) 260-8336 Tina@NewYorkFamily.com Address: New York Family Media/Schneps Media 1 MetroTech Center North, Third Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201

President: Victoria Schneps-Yunis CEO: Joshua Schneps COO: Clifford Luster

2021

New York Family has been awarded the PMA Gold Award for Excellence in Website Design and the Silver Award for Excellence overall.

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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Reproduction of New York Family Media in whole or part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. ©2022 Queens Family Media, LLC

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February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

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Podcasts

Podcasts for Kids 8 fun and educational picks

By Olivia HaverOn

A

s winter continues to become increasingly cold outside, this means more time in the house. This could also mean more screen time for your kids. Podcasts are one way of decreasing your kids screen time while also expanding their general understanding of the world! Podcasts are becoming extremely popular as a form of audio to learn, read, and simply listen during our daily lives.

The realm of podcasts available to kids is quickly expanding and can be beneficial in boosting reading skills, developing communication skills, enhancing imagination, curiosity, and knowledge, and can decrease screen time. Check out these eight fun podcasts for kids that’ll keep your little one entertained!

The Past and The Curious Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and Spotify

“The Past and The Curious” is the perfect history podcast for kids and their families to listen to together. Host Mick Sullivan recounts the little known details about wellknown people and events in history. From episodes on spies, to George Washington’s escapades as he entered his presidency, “The Past and The Curious” makes history fun for people of all ages! Each episode includes a professional music score as well as an important song.

Wow in the World Available on NPR One, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and RSS Link

Join Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz as they share the latest news in science, technology, and innovation. Each story and episode’s goal is to provide kids with insight, hope, and agency that’ll make them say ‘WOW.’ Each

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NewYorkFamily.com | February 2022

episode also parallels a fun and free print out activity or experiment. Created by Tinkercast, this company provides multiple podcasts that will WOW kids of all ages.

Tumble Available on RadioPublic, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, and Spotify

“Tumble” is a science podcast for kids as

hosts Lindsey and Marshall ask questions, share mysteries, and discuss what science is all about. Two beliefs are at the core of the Tumble Podcast: if kids understand science, ultimately the world will be a better place, and there should be more podcasts designed for kids. Science is a process that can be a struggle within society, and by teaching kids the importance of science while they

February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

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Podcasts

are young, they’ll be able to grow, learn, and understand the necessity of scientific literacy.

What if World Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

On each episode of “What if World” Mr. Eric takes a “What if?” question from a child and spins it into an exciting story for the listener.

What would happen if “a tiny dragon lived in the closet”? Or “if cats ruled the world?”

Enter the “What if ” World and experience the unknown and the questionable. You and your child can even visit the What If World Twitter to use the generator to find a question that has kids tell a story of their own!

Noodle Loaf Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, RadioPublic, Stitcher and more!

“Noodle Loaf” is an interactive podcast created by Dan Saks and his two kids that looks into the world of music, and music

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NewYorkFamily.com | February 2022

education. The 10-minute episodes include movement activities, rhythm games, learning, all including fun music. In addition to the podcast, Saks created original videos based on podcast episodes that includes an interactive game designed to teach music concepts. This show is perfect for kids 3-9 years old.

The Radio Adventures of Eleanor Amplified Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Geared more towards the middle school listener, you can listen to Eleanor Amplified, middle school reporter, foil devious plots and outwit villains with the goal of finding the big story. While an entertaining podcast, it also helps to prepare kids to appreciate the art of journalism and to make smart media choices in the future. Eleanor Amplified is recommended for kids ages 8-12.

Book Club for Kids Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, and Spotify

This free, 20-minute podcast hosted by Kitty

Felde is devoted to middle school books and readers featuring a trio of students who discuss their favorite book, interview with the author, as well as a celebrity guest. Book Club for Kids originated in 2000 as a talk show on KPCC and cable, before being relaunched as a podcast in 2015. Book Club for Kids also allows kids to be on the show, all you need is your smartphone!

Like You: Mindfulness for Kids Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, RadioPublic, and more!

“Like You” is a mindfulness podcast for kids, which uses breathing, affirmations, music, and imagination to explore feeling, selfesteem, and grow empathy in a relaxing way.

This fun podcast for kids allows your child to seek out the beauty within themselves and the world. Compared to other podcasts on this list, “Like You” provides a calming experience where instead of discovering the science and listening to stories, they can learn more about themselves and the techniques that can help with stress and anxiety in the future.

A warm and inviting school community where students feel safe and supported

Discover the Ascend Difference.

Join us at your neighborhood school this Fall

ascendlearning.org/enroll or email enroll@ascendlearning.org

February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

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Education

Considering a Catholic School for Your Family

By Jaclyn Griffith

I

t’s hard to imagine a decision that impacts your child’s present and future more than the decision of which school they will attend.

Academics, community, relationships, location, guiding principles—all of these are sure to influence your family’s school choice.

While considering the overwhelming number of options, it’s important for parents to understand the benefits of a Catholic school education in New York City.

For more than 200 years, Catholic schools in New York City have provided an education that is both academically rigorous and firmly rooted in the Catholic faith. Today, more than 67,000 students in grades pre-K through twelve are served by the Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of New York, which includes rural, urban, and suburban Catholic schools in the ten southern counties of New York State. The Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of New York describe their mission as follows: “To ensure our schools are Christ-centered, academically excellent, and welcoming communities that teach students to be life-long learners and leaders energized by fidelity to Christ, the Church, and one another.” But students need not be Catholic

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NewYorkFamily.com | February 2022

to attend a Catholic school; children of all faiths are welcome to experience the benefits of a Catholic school education.

The success of Catholic school students Each year, 99 percent of high school seniors from the Archdiocese of Catholic Schools will graduate, and the vast majority of these students will go on to college. When comparing scores on state tests of English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics, Catholic school students outperform New York State and City public school students, as well as most charter school students.

The Archdiocese insists that it is the Catholic approach that leads to high success rates for its students. By seeing each student as a child of God with individual needs, while simultaneously encouraging students to embrace that they are part of a larger, global community, the “stewardship of the whole person” is prioritized. In other words, students are guided to understand their talents, find meaning in their lives, build upon their strengths, and develop self-discipline and confidence. They are not only expected but prepared and encouraged to become compassionate leaders of society. The Archdiocese

reminds parents that “the Catholic school experience is an unparalleled opportunity to develop a child’s mind, heart and soul.”

Religion and academics go handin-hand What exactly do the religion classes and the traditional academic courses look like at Catholic schools in New York City? The Archdiocese ensures that the ideals of the Gospel support the “substance and structure” of all lessons in Catholic schools. These 67,000 students proudly share their faith through daily prayer, regular mass as a school community, and participating in Christian service.

At the same time, traditional academics at Catholic schools are grounded in the skills necessary to prepare students for success outside of school and church. These skills vary between school communities, as each group of students requires an individualized approach to reach their fullest potential. In all schools, the curricula are forward-focused and aim to make students competitive in our increasingly complex world. To do so, they incorporate technology, advanced math, hands-on science, foreign language study, and a variety of classes in the arts.

In addition to students of all faiths being welcome to experience a Catholic school education, students of all social class backgrounds are welcome as well, as needbased scholarships are available for students and families. Students with special needs are also welcome to attend Catholic schools, and the Catholic teachings surrounding

St. Edmund

Elementary School

Want your child to...

Think Critically, Judge Wisely, Love Learning?

Let your child soar with a Catholic education at St. Edmund Elementary School Ask us about our unique collaboration with St. Edmund Preparatory High School For registration information or to schedule a tour, please call

718-648-9229 Ext 21

or contact us at saintedmundelem@gmail.com Scholarship Information is available at: futuresineducation.org

1902 Avenue T, Brooklyn, NY 11229

Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on the latest events & news

CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL

Belong. Believe. Become.

CATHE

• Specialized academies • Specialized academies in the fields of Medicine, in the fields of Medicine, Business Law, STEM Business & & Law, andand STEM •• Honors and Advanced Placement classes offered Honors and Advanced • APlacement robust art program classes offered •• Competitive sports A robust art program program and rich extracurricular activities • Competitive sports • Academic scholarships and financial aid available program and rich • Millions of dollars in college scholarships and extracurricular activities grants earned each • Academic scholarshipsyear and financial aid available • Millions of dollarsan in in-person visit please visit: To schedule college scholarships and CATHEDRALHS.ORG/VISIT-OUR-SCHOOL grants earned each year

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350 East 56th Street, 350 East 56thNYC Street, NYC Apply now at: (212) 688-1545 (212) 688-1545 https://cathedralhs.org/application www.cathedralhs.org www.cathedralhs.org

350 E (212) www

To schedule an in-person visit please visit: CATHEDRALHS.ORG/VISIT-OUR-SCHOOL Apply now at: cathedralhs.org/application

Our Lady of †rust Catholic Academy 1696 Canarsie Rd Brooklyn, NY 11236

718 241-6633 www.ourladyoftrustca.org

Come join our family!

Grades Pre-K 3 through 8th Please inquire about Scholarships!

Our Academy is proud to announce we have remained safely opened during this time under the statewide approved & CDC guidelines.

Google Chromebooks for every student, social distancing & specialty classes offered.

NURSERY - 8TH GRADE For more information

New S Ment tudents! & get ion this ad last tuitio month's n FRE E

Please go to our website for more information & our Instagram to see more pictures of our Academy!

Ourladyoftrustca.org / @oltcaofficial

Call

718-768-8000

or visit our website at

www.saintsaviourcatholicacademy.org Susan Walsh,Principal Michele Singh Director of Admissions and Marketing

February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

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Education

one-on-one nurturing ensure a supportive environment for students of all abilities.

Safety during the COVID-19 pandemic Nearly two years into the pandemic, the Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of New York choose to view our current challenges as a chance “to reinforce core values” and to “reimagine education in a positive, formative, and future-oriented manner to soar into the future with pride and confidence.” This means that Catholic schools in New York City continue to lead with compassion, in-person, as they remain adaptable to all necessary safety precautions.

Currently, Catholic schools are required to maintain six feet of distance between cohorts of students, and students within each cohort must maintain at least three feet of distance from each other. All members of the school community must always wear masks indoors. Hallway, classroom, and entrance/ exit traffic must be clearly labeled to avoid crowding at any time. Proper ventilation is essential, including keeping doors and windows open and fans on when it is possible

and comfortable to do so. Staff in charge of sanitizing and disinfecting schools are aware of their incredibly important responsibility to help limit the spread of germs on surfaces during this time. Teachers, students, and all staff members must stay home from school if they do not feel well, even if they haven’t received a COVID-19 test or test results yet. Anyone who has been within six feet of a person diagnosed with COVID-19 for a prolonged period of time must also stay home. Every morning before school, parents must complete the Daily Health Screening Checklist for themselves and their children.

If anyone answers yes to any of the questions about COVID-19 symptoms and exposure, the child must stay home from school and contact the school principal immediately.

Perhaps most importantly, the Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of New York understand the important of staying flexible and adaptable during the pandemic. The safety and academic prosperity of students is prioritized always, and to do so, they remain willing to make changes when called for by the CDC or by the school community. In case of an emergency,

Saint Joseph the Worker Catholic Academy Conveniently located in the heart of Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn, SJWCA offers a diverse and inclusive environment for students - nursery through grade 8 - designed to develop the whole child based on the catholic principals of love, respect and service to community and each other Featuring...

• small class sizes • in-person instruction • Rigorous curriculum • 1:1 Chromebooks • Algebra I Regents • STEM Lab • Band

Catholic schools are prepared to shift to a full or partial remote learning schedule. For more information about the exact procedures for cases of COVID-19 in Catholic schools, see the 2021 Catholic Schools Reopening Plan.

What sets Catholic schools apart from the rest?

Ultimately, the values of a Catholic education work to develop a person intellectually, socially, and morally. School choice is pivotal for families, as students can sometimes spend more time with their school communities than with parents or siblings. When choosing what community will help raise their child, parents will inevitably wonder about the values of that community and how their child will soar within it. The Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of New York aim to provide “academic excellence in a safe, nurturing environment for all [their] students, enabling them to become productive citizens for today’s society.” The unique environment offered by the Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of New York should certainly be considered by any parent deciding what kind of education they want for their child.

St. St. Francis of of Assisi Francis Assisi Catholic Academy Catholic Academy 400 Lincoln Rd., Brooklyn, NY 11225 • www.sfabrooklyn.org 400 Lincoln Rd., Brooklyn, NY 11225 • www.sfabrooklyn.org

Serving children in in Serving children Pre-KPre-K – Grade 8 – Grade 8 UPK UPK site site - FREE Pre-K - FREE Pre-K • For Academic Excellence • For Academic Excellence • For a Education • Faith-Based For a Faith-Based Education • For Creative Arts, Music • For Creative Arts, Music and Drama and Drama • For 21st Century Technology • For 21st Century Technology Education Education

• Robotics • Scholarships • Enichment Classes • After School Services

APLICATIONS ARE OPEN FOR THE 2022 SCHOOL YEAR

718.768.7629 • www.sjwca.org 14

NewYorkFamily.com | February 2022

VisitVisit our our website to find out out more website to find more about howhow to register youryour child about to register child for 2021 for 2021

www.sfabrooklyn.org www.sfabrooklyn.org Call: 718-778-3700 Call: 718-778-3700 office@sfabrooklyn.org or email: office@sfabrooklyn.org or email:

Want your child to... be creative, be a great reader, gain confidence,

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We're saving a seat for your Child at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Academy of Brooklyn Seats in all grades and scholarships are available!

Registering now for the 2022-23 school year Contact us at 718.439.8067 to schedule a private tour Students of all faiths welcome

5902 6th Avenue • Brooklyn, NY 11220-4001 • olphcab.org

����������������������������� Created for Middle & High School students

GRADUATING INDEPENDENT GRADUATING INDEPENDENT WOMENWOMEN SINCE SINCE 1937 1937

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Fontbonne Hall, a college preparatory school for young women located in Bay Ridge, founded on the gospel of Jesus Christ and inspired by the philosophy and charism

���������������������������������������������� 1016 Beverley Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11218 flatbushtheaterproject.com | fdctheater@gmail.com

Fontbonne Hall,of a college preparatory schooloffers for young women located in Bay Ridge, the Sisters of Saint Joseph, a superior educational program to form and empower confidence and compassion. founded on the gospel ofwomen Jesusof Christ and inspired by the philosophy and charism of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, offers a superior educational program to form and • Offering a hybrid learning model consisting of synchronous learning every day empower women of confidence and compassion.

• Hybrid learning model with fully remote learning option

• Offering a hybrid learning model consisting of synchronous learning every day

• The only all girls Catholic HS in NYC and Long Island to offer the AP Capstone

Program; 16 AP courses offered • Hybrid learning model with fully remote learning option

• College partnerships in Performing Arts, Nursing, Elementary Education and more

• The only all girls Catholic HS in NYC and Long Island to offer the AP Capstone Program; 16 AP courses offered • Fontbonne is the exclusive school in NY to offer the Brown University Women in Engineering Program as part of our comprehensive STEM program

• College partnerships in Performing Arts, Nursing, Elementary Education and more • Beautiful multi-building campus located in Bay Ridge

• Fontbonne is •the exclusive school in NY to offer the Brown University Women Over 30 Clubs and Activities and a wide selection of Athletics in Engineering Program as part of our comprehensive STEM program • Virtual info sessions and visit days available for

prospectivecampus studentslocated in Bay Ridge • Beautiful multi-building

Virtual school community building events • Over 30 Clubs• and Activities and a wide selection of Athletics • Transfer students accepted

• Virtual info sessions and visit days available for prospective students

8th Grade students: Register online for a visit day

8th Grade students: • Virtual school community building events Visit www.Fontbonne.org for more information andRegister how to register online for our OPEN HOUSE | 9901 SHORE ROAD, BROOKLYN, NY 718.748.2244 for11209 a visit day • Transfer students accepted

Visit www.Fontbonne.org for more information and how to register for our OPEN HOUSE | 9901 SHORE ROAD, BROOKLYN, NY 11209 718.748.2244

We’re s� S�cial

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

February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

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Charter Schools Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

Ascend Public Charter Schools 15 K-12 schools in Brownsville, Bushwick, Canarsie, East Flatbush, Cypress Hills, East New York, and Lefferts Gardens 347-464-7600, ext. 1002 ascendlearning.org/enroll Students at Ascend are placed firmly on the path to success in college and beyond and are offered an opportunity to transform their lives. Ascend provides an ambitious liberal arts education inspired by the country’s finest schools, creating a clear path to college and career success. Ascend schools are located in beautiful, newly renovated buildings where families and students are cherished members of a warm, supportive community that fosters social skills, self-reliance, and intellectual confidence.

These are free public schools open to all, regardless of academic ability, prior

academic achievement, special needs, or English language learner status. Now accepting applications for the upcoming school year at ascendlearning.org/enroll.

Visit one of their upcoming Virtual Information Sessions to learn more.

Brooklyn Charter School 545 Willoughby Ave, 3rd Floor, Brooklyn 718- 808-6271 brooklyncharter.org Vision: At BCS they have a precious opportunity to prepare children to be successful and to engage them in making meaningful contributions to the world in which we live. Their mission is to provide a rigorous academic program supported by the Arts and Technology that cultivates the whole child.

Through achievement and creativity, and in partnership with the school’s families, students will develop the necessary confidence,

intellectual capacity and leadership skills to prepare them for an evolving global society. Learn more or apply today at: https:// brooklyncharter.org/apply/!

Brooklyn Dreams Charter School 259 Parkville Ave, Brooklyn 718-859-8400 Brooklyn Excelsior Charter School 856 Quincy St, Brooklyn 718-246-5681 Brooklyn Scholars Charter School 2635 Linden Blvd, Brooklyn 718-348-9360 National Heritage Academies (NHA) operates three tuitionfree, public charter schools in Brooklyn: Brooklyn Dreams Charter School, Brooklyn Excelsior Charter School, and Brooklyn Scholars Charter School. Each school, based in its own building, shapes instruction to build on the strengths and abilities of each child. Our goal is to see every

child build the knowledge, skills, and character they need to excel in school and life. As a network, all NHA schools share a common vision, while each school enjoys the flexibility of tailoring its program to meet the needs of its community.

To find a school in Brooklyn, visit nhaschools.com.

Explore Schools Prospect Heights, Crown Heights, Flatbush, and Canarsie 718- 989-6730 exploreschools.org Explore Schools of Brooklyn has committed to the charge of providing students with the academic skills and critical thinking abilities they need to succeed in a college preparatory high school.

With 6 school sites, they serve students in grades Kindergarten through 8 across central Brooklyn, NY. Their curriculum is aligned to the common core, we are committed to creating

WHERE KIDS SUCCEED ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE • MORAL FOCUS

NATIONAL HERITAGE ACADEMIES operates public charter schools in Brooklyn.

Each school has its own building.

Brooklyn Dreams Brooklyn Excelsior Brooklyn Scholars Charter School Charter School Charter School 259 Parkville Ave

856 Quincy St

K-8 • Tuition-Free • Safe Seats Available • Apply Today Visit nhaschools.com or call 929.364.4141.

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NewYorkFamily.com | February 2022

2635 Linden Blvd

|

|

February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

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Charter Schools Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

a culturally responsive program, and we provide special education services.

Their academic program is strong, as more of our students perform proficient or higher on NYS Exams than other city and district public schools. Nearly 90% of their students have graduated to a college preparatory high school across New York City! We’re enrolling for the current and upcoming school year and want you to join our growing community. Visit exploreschools.org/enroll for more information or apply now.

Key Collegiate Charter School 257 Chester St, Brooklyn 646- 604-4428 keycollegiate.org With an unapologetic focus on student success, Key Collegiate Charter School ensures that all students have the academic skills, professional habits, and personal drive necessary

18

to gain access to and excel within the high schools and colleges of their choice. With performing arts classes to allow students to develop their creative interests, a 1-to-1 laptop model, a daily advisory program, and an intense focus on literacy, they prepare students to be well-rounded life-long 21st-century learners.

They also provide all school supplies! Join the Key Team today.

The New American Academy Charter School 9301 Avenue B, Brooklyn 718-385-1709 tnaacs.org At TNAACS they firmly believe that all students deserve a rigorous, wellrounded education. A vital component of this is enrichment, including music, physical education, technology and health and wellness, all of which are crucial to a student’s success. The school’s goal is to produce students

NewYorkFamily.com | February 2022

who are also socially & emotionally educated, who look out for number two instead of number one, who can think critically, demonstrate leadership and are responsible citizens. At the center of TNAACS are their HEARTS of Humility, Empowerment, Aspiration, Responsibility, Teamwork and Scholarship. These values are infused into everything they do and ensure their students have the social and emotional skills necessary to be successful both in school and in life. Learn more or Apply today at: https://www.tnaacs. org/admissions

Uncommon Schools NYC 24 schools throughout Brooklyn 718-363-5024 uncommonschools.org/ enrollnyc Uncommon Schools NYC is a free K-12 public charter school in Brooklyn accepting applications in grades K through 8 for fall 2022.

Their 24 schools provide a loving yet rigorous learning environment that guides each child to success in college and beyond. Join Uncommon NYC in developing today’s learners into tomorrow’s leaders!

Top Reasons to Join Uncommon Schools -Award winning college preparatory curriculum -Caring & Supportive Community -Full K-12 Experience -Whole child development through diverse electives and enrichment programming Apply today at uncommonschools.org/ enrollnyc or call (718) 3635024.

Application deadline is Friday, April 1st.

Urban Dove Team Charter Schools UD Team Brooklyn 1256 E. 21st Street, Brooklyn 917- 588-1002 Urban Dove Team Charter

With Uncommon Schools NYC,

I Am Unstoppable

Enroll Today | Grades K-8

uncommonschools.org/enrollnyc ( 718) 363-5024

Accepting Applications for Grades K-5 www.tnaacs.org 718-385-1709

APPLY TODAY

2022-2023 School Year February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

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Charter Schools Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

"The school that everyone calls home."

Contact us to schedule a virtual tour and apply now:

Schools are completely unique and innovative alternative sports-based high schools for over-aged, under-credited youth that combine a rigorous academic curriculum and an award-winning program that strives to give each graduate a high school diploma, a foundation for higher education, and the job skills needed to enter the workforce.

Eligible applicants are: -Graduating 8th graders who repeated a grade in middle school -9th graders who have less than 8 credits -10th graders and up who have less than 18 credits -All students must be 16 years old or younger at the time of acceptance Visit urbandove.org to apply!

Our mission is to provide a rigorous academic program supported by the Arts and Technology that cultivates the whole child. Through achievement and creativity, and in partnership with our families, students will develop the necessary confidence, intellectual capacity and leadership skills to prepare them for an evolving global society.

Williamsburg Charter High School 198 Varet St., Brooklyn, NY 347-217-6995 thewcs.org admissions@thewcs.org The Williamsburg Charter High School unites youth, families, staff, teachers, and the community at large in providing young people with the tools necessary to make sense of the world, preparing them in their journey to become citizens of the local and global community. Young people accomplish this through participation in a liberal arts education that includes language, literature, writing, science, history, mathematics, the visual and performing arts, technology, and explorations in disciplines designed to teach justice, independent thinking, respect, and compassion for

Partner with Us

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Collaborate with the New York Family Media team to spread the word about your launches, promotions and news. Reach us by emailing info@newyorkfamily.com or calling 718.260.4554

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NewYorkFamily.com | February 2022

Eligible Applicants Are: 16 years old or younger and Rising 9th graders who repeated a grade in middle school or 9th graders with 8 credits or less or 10th graders with 18 credits or less

Williamsburg Charter High School (WCHS)

Applications Available for the 2022-2023 School Year Upcoming Open Houses: Sat. February 5th, 2022 Sat. March 5th, 2022 Sat. April 2nd, 2022

WCHS offers: • Advanced Placement (AP) and Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA) classes • Special Education (SPED) and English as a New Language (ENL) services

• Student-driven course selection • Social emotional supports • Visual and performing arts, extracurricular activities, and athletics

Visit www.thewcs.org to

APPLY NOW 198 Varet Street Brooklyn, NY 11206 admissions@thewcs.org

347-217-6995

February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

21

Education Directory | Special Advertising Supplement Academy For Young Minds 11-20 46th Road, Long Island City 646-670-5999 aymschool.org info@aymschool.org AYM is an independent private school for mid-high functioning school-age children on the autism spectrum.

It is led by Board-Certified Behavior Analysts®. Focus is on social and functional language skills and to provide a personalized, rigorous curriculum using the principles of applied behavior analysis.

Fontbonne Hall - The Lab School For Girls 9901 Shore Road, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn 718-748-2244 fontbonne.org Fontbonne Hall, the Lab School for Girls, a Catholic, all-girl, private high school is not just for future scientists, doctors, or engineers but instead for all expansive thinkers, creative problem solvers, and potential pioneers. FH offers a hybrid learning model consisting of synchronous

learning every day, and a fully remote option.

The Learning Ladder 2082 Utica Ave., Flatbush, Brooklyn 347-288-9218 thelearningladderus.com learningladder.enroll@gmail. com The Learning Ladder is a friendly, secure place where children happily learn while playing. We help children accomplish goals in a caring, positive environment. The curriculum includes music and movement, language development, science exploration, creative arts, gross motor play, fine motor and self-help building, early reading skills, quiet and dramatic play

Lightbridge Academy Brooklyn Locations in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Long Island, lightbridgeacademy.com Baldwin_ny@ lightbridgeacademy.com Lightbridge Academy is The Solution for Working Par-

ents® providing the Gold Standard for health and safety in a nurturing environment for infant, toddler, and preschoolage children. Their proprietary curriculum embraces every moment as another opportunity to learn and unlocks every child’s potential.

PS Family NYC Program Support Family Childcare Network Locations Throughout Brooklyn and Queens, 718-701-1707 psfamilynyc.org/ info@psfamilynyc.org PS Family NYC, an agency funded through the DOE, is responsible for managing one of the largest Family Child Care Networks in NYC. They work directly with in-home child care providers to build their businesses and help families find high-quality, low-cost, or free childcare to fit their family’s needs.

Saint Saviour Catholic Academy 701 8th Ave., Park Slope

718-768-8000 x4 saintsaviourcatholicacademy. org msingh@sscaparkslope.org Saint Saviour Catholic Academy prepares students from nursery to eighth grade for higher education. Their academy offers a balanced curriculum of rigorous academics designed to meet the common core standards and a vibrant arts and extracurricular program paired with the spiritual teachings of Catholicism.

Montessori Day School of Brooklyn 237 Park Place, Prospect Heights 718-398-2322 montessoridayschool.org Since 1977, MDS has followed a Montessori philosophy to guide and inspire a joy of learning both in and outside of the classroom. They are an inclusive preschool program that values diversity, excellence in early childhood education, and continuous learning. Hours are 8am-3pm with extended day available.

Check out our new site!

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!

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NewYorkFamily.com | February 2022

COMING SOON TO DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN!

Now Enrolling!

Our proprietary Seedlings Early Childhood Education

Curriculum encourages a love of learning, prepares children academically and stimulates development through every stage and “aha!” moment.

• Infant, Toddler & Pre-K Programs • Tuition Includes STREAM, Music, Spanish & Sign Language • ParentView® Internet Monitoring • Parent eCommunication App • Interactive Whiteboards & iPad Technology

237 Duffield Street, Brooklyn

718.643.9800

LightbridgeAcademy.com

The effects of MDS's program on my daughter are immeasurable. I have watched her transform from a shy and reserved child to an independent and creative thinker ready to take on the world.

Parent 2021

Since 1977 MDS has followed a Montessori philosophy to guide and inspire a joy of learning both in and outside of the classroom. We are an inclusive preschool program that values diversity, excellence in early childhood education, and continuous learning. We are located in the Prospect Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn.

We'd love for your family to join us!

AGE 2- 5 Years Old Schedule a Virtual Tour Today! www.montessoridayschool.org 7. (718) 398- 2322 237 Park Pl. Brooklyn, NY 11238 February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

23

Camps

Camps for Kids with Special Needs

By Jess Michaels

I

f you are looking for a place where your child who has special needs can feel like they fit in, make friends, build confidence and gain independence, you may want to consider a special needs summer program.

For children with special needs, camp can often be a welcome change of environments that can be life changing! Here are just a few of the amazing special needs summer camp programs.

Day Camps Endeavor Program @Crestwood Country Day Camp – Endeavor is a

program offered at Crestwood Country Day Camp, a traditional day camp located on Long Island, designed for children grades 2- 8 that fosters social and emotional growth. Children who attend the program may have a diagnosis or no diagnosis but many don’t thrive in the traditional camp environment and exhibit the need for support socially. Endeavor will allow campers to feel connected to others and feel a sense of belonging in the camp community.

Crestwoodcountryday.com New Country Day Camp @ 14th Street Y – New Country Day Camp, one

of the 14th Street Y’s summer camps, offers an inclusion program for children entering Kindergarten through 8th grade. The camp is located at the Henry Kaufman camp grounds on Staten Island and welcomes children with high-functioning cognitive, intellectual or developmental differences such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADD/ADHD, learning disabilities and sensory & language delays.

Campers are fully integrated into the camper program and the camp works to create an ICP, individuated camper plans, for each child. 14streety.org Overnight Camps Camp Akeela – Camp Akeela is a coed overnight camp in Vermont that supports the social growth of their campers and where

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NewYorkFamily.com | February 2022

“quirky campers thrive.” Akeela serves children grades 3-10. While some campers have ADD/ADHD, Asperger’s or an Autism Spectrum Disorder, other campers don’t have a formal diagnosis. All campers share in that they are looking to be part of a caring community where they can meet friends that understand them. Campers who attend Akeela enjoy peer interaction but can struggle to make meaningful social connections. At camp, children will practice social skills and gain a feeling of belonging while participating in an array of camp activities. campakeela. com.

Camp Ramapo – Camp Ramapo, located in Rhinebeck, NY, is a coed overnight camp for children ages 6-16 with social, emotional or learning challenges, including children on the autism spectrum. The structured program fosters independence, teamwork, positive social skills, increased self-esteem and a sense of community. One of the goals of camp is for children to leave slightly more independent from when they

arrived. Campers enjoy traditional camp activities and also work on everyday skills such as making their beds, working in the garden, making a salad and setting a table. ramapoforchildren.org Summit Camp – Summit Camp is a coed overnight camp in Pennsylvania for children ages 8-19 with a variety of developmental, social, emotional and learning issues. Campers have diagnosis that can include Asperger’s, ADD/ADHD, verbal and non-verbal learning disabilities, HFA, speech and language issues and sensory integration issues. Some children may also have gaps in executive function, Tourette’s syndrome or Bi-Polar disorder. All campers have difficulty in peer friendships and can lack social skills to maintain these relationships. The camp provides opportunities to develop and maintain social skills with the goals of building selfconfidence and making lasting friendships, all while participating in fun summer camp activities. summitcamp.com.

Camps Directory

Special Advertising Supplement

Aviator Sports Complex 3159 Flatbush Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11234 718- 758-7500 aviatorsports.com Summer Day Camp offers five daily rotating activities including swimming, ice skating, gymnastics, rock climbing, and more in our 175,000 sq. ft. facility, 35acre outdoor area. Summer camp runs from 9 am-5 pm.

Early drop-off, late stay, and bus transportation available.

Lunch and an afternoon snack are included.

Park Slope Day Camp Ronny Schindler, director Carroll Gardens, Prospect Park, Windsor Terrace, 718-788-7732 parkslopedaycamp.com For 31 years, PSDC has been providing Brooklyn families with a safe, nurturing, and unique day camp experience.

Located in Park Slope,

Windsor Terrace, and Carroll Gardens, they offer a wide variety of outdoor activities and options including traditional camp, travel camp, soccer, a leadership experience for teens, and more.

Par�ner wi�h Us

Young Judaea Sprout Brooklyn Day Camp 556 Columbia St, Brooklyn, NY 11231 914-595-6835 www.sproutbrooklyn.org info@sproutbrooklyn.org Sprout Brooklyn Day Camp is a Hebrew dual-language camp for campers entering Pre-K-5th grade. Sprout Brooklyn is a place where campers from a wide spectrum of backgrounds join together to create a joyful, energetic & diverse community built on Jewish values, a connection to Israel, and the Hebrew language.

Want to reach engaged parents across New York City?

Collaborate with the New York Family Media team to spread the word about your launches, promotions and news.

Reach us by emailing info@newyorkfamily.com or calling 718.260.4554 February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

25

Neha Ruch

The @MotherUntitled founder on leaning in — in a new direction

By Cris Pearlstein

A

week after my daughter started preschool my husband and I attended a virtual parents happy hour. This meet-andgreet Zoom party was meant to replace the in-person party they usually throw every September, where parents bond and become best friends (or so I’ve heard). But these days things are different so there we were, one square on a screen, trying to be friendly and engaged from our couch. It came time to go around and introduce ourselves, say where we’re from, and what we each do for work. As each square came to life and told their story I noticed my heart start to beat fast and hard out of my chest. Mom after mom relayed their job—lawyer, marine biologist, chef, tech-y start-up person—and it became clear I was the only one who didn’t have a full-time job to relay. At that point in my life I was a former fashion editor, turned stay-at-home mom, who was sorta kinda trying to be a freelance writer.

I was already embarrassed about how my professional life had stalled (thanks 4 rounds of IVF, 2 cross-country moves, and a little something called a Global Pandemic), and being the only one without a career on this call only made it worse. The shame was very real, and I was so relieved when, by some stroke of luck, the group got distracted talking about bedtime routines and my turn was miraculously skipped. Phew.

The reason I’m sharing this story is that when I first met Neha Ruch of Mother Untitled, and started following her account, I felt a moment of recognition. An undeniable comfort.

Or as the kids say, I felt seen. Not only is she a fellow mom (of 6-year-old Bodie and 3-yearold Lyla), but she also took a step back from her professional path to focus on her family, and then, as a result, found herself on a new path, just like I did. After reading her thoughtful articles (on topics like navigating grief over an old career), her smart posts (on common fears like

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losing your identity as a SAHM), and her useful script templates (like one titled Guide to Preparing for a Career Pause), I thought back to that Zoom call. Had I come across her platform earlier I would have been prepared for the what do you do for work? question. I would have been armed with the language to help communicate the phase of life I was in, and I would have known it was ok to take a step back without throwing in the proverbial towel. I would have also known that motherhood is full of different seasons, none of which are permanent, and, above all, that I can be both an ambitious woman and a stay-at-home mom—something I never accepted before coming across her platform. So if you are sitting here reading this and you too are suddenly having that feeling of recognition, know that I see you. Neha sees you. You too can be both.

Talk to me about the moment you decided to start Mother Untitled, and what your mission is for the platform.

I started Mother Untitled after my first year in motherhood in 2017. I’d made the choice to pause, and eventually downshifted into consulting only two days a week. When I graduated business school there was such a stigma, the Lean In movement was at its peak and it was driving a lot of the messaging around women in the workplace. So even though I felt really confident and clear in that choice, I was certainly feeling the judgments about it. That Thanksgiving there was a conversation where I more acutely noticed the contrast between myself and my circle, and observed the disempowering narratives and stigmas surrounding the choice to stay home and downshift to focus on family. So during one of my son’s naps that holiday week, I wrote out a mission to create a new narrative, and a place for like-minded women in this stage of life. I started tinkering with the name, bought a domain, and began to write blog posts. Over the following six weeks, I recruited a friend to

design the site, tapped some mom friends to weigh in, and launched a week after my son’s first birthday.

I think of Mother Untitled’s job as twofold: to help women feel confident in this stage of life, and to help society re-examine the opportunity for growth in motherhood. In doing both, we allow women to openly embrace this part of their life without penalty on the other side. Ultimately, our culture’s recognition of moms as relevant and connected during these years allows female talent greater confidence in returning to work and advocating their worth.

In the absence of having the built-in maternity time that many other countries have, women in the U.S. have to create it for ourselves. We need to give ourselves that window to make the right choices for our families, but really the onus is on culture and it starts with allowing moms the grace to be in the in between.

On your platform you talk about the “grey area”—what is it and why is it something that society should be paying more attention to?

The black and white notions of the stay-at-home mom and working mom are so antiquated. There’s so much space in between those two concepts, which includes women taking thoughtful pauses—that’s the grey area. I believe I am here now because of the time I took off. It allowed me to grow personally, to check my ego, to experiment in ways I wouldn’t have otherwise. I was lucky to find my own spot in the grey area, but I think especially now since the pandemic, there is a wide range of freelance and flex opportunities, and this conversation is growing. Flexibility has become a critical value. It’s a really empowered moment in time where women get a chance, if they have the privilege to be able to, to stop and reevaluate what works for them right now. For a long time I think we associated the SAHM mom with luxury, but really I think the privilege isn’t to stay at home or to go to work—the privilege is to get to choose. It’s

not just about if you have the resources to stay home, it’s also whether you have the resources to go back to work. It can swing both ways.

What should more people know about women who are in that “grey area”? What should employers and hiring managers know about them?

I’ve now interviewed over 200 women who have chosen paths that make more room for motherhood. These women bring an average of 12 years of prior career experience, and have intentionally decided to recalibrate for this chapter of their lives. There is substantial personal development and skillset expansion in motherhood—raising young kids is like leadership training in creativity, efficiency, communication, and empathy. We are also living in a time where technology allows constant connection and learning. That means women have an opportunity to flex their creative muscles, stay on top of industry shifts, network, and even sharpen the skills specific to their industry in digital formats. Taking a pause often gives them room to clarify what they want their contribution and impact to be, so you’re looking at a group of highly motivated, thoughtful women.

Photo by Yumi Matsuo

Talk to me about your definition of ambition.

Why do you think moms should rethink that word?

After I had children, I recalibrated my versions of balance over and over, shifting from staying at home entirely, to freelancing alongside motherhood, to eventually working parttime two days a week. With each shift, I had to be clear on what success looked like because even measuring myself against the year before wasn’t fair, and would set me up for failure if I didn’t recalibrate. When we compare ourselves to other people’s success metrics or optimize for the wrong metrics, that’s when insecurity and unhappiness creep in.

Ambition can come in a lot of different forms, but I think women feel like they are somehow letting down the generation before them if they choose to shift their ambition to family life. But, for the sake of everyone’s mental health, we need to change that because we’re not operating in the 1970s anymore. If we can reframe ambition as trusting that we can make the right choices for our whole selves, including family, it allows us the confidence to keep growing. Whether the choice is to be a working mother, a fully at-home mother, or a mother in the grey area, if it lets you and your partner be the best versions of yourselves, then your kids are going to be alright. It’s important to tune into what’s right for right now.

February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

27

Food

Valentine’s Day Treats Catherine McCord of Weelicious and One Potato shares two easy favorites

W

e love a good excuse to whirl up some sweet treats for Valentine’s Day. Thankfully, Catherine McCord, founder of Weelicious and One Potato, always has delicious recipes perfect for the entire family.

Make these super easy treats in minutes as each recipe takes less than 15 minutes, with one not even having to go into the oven. Frankly, when it comes to cooking with kids in the kitchen, these are precisely the recipes we love.

Puff Pastry Berry Hearts Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Makes: about 18 hearts (depending on the size of the cookie cutter) Ingredients: • 1 cup whipping cream • 1 teaspoon powdered sugar • 1 package frozen puff pastry, defrosted • A half a cup fresh raspberries (or mixed berries) How to make: 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. 2. Unfold the puff pastry and cut

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into hearts using heart-shaped cookie cutters.

3. Place the puff pastry hearts on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

4. In the bowl of a standing mixer, or with an electric mixer whip the cream on medium- high speed for 2-3 minutes. Add the

powdered sugar and beat on high for 30 more seconds or until thick and fluffy.

5. Remove hearts from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Slice hearts in half. Top the bottom half with whipped cream and berries, and place the other half on top to form a sandwich.

Heart Rice Crispy Treats Prep Time: 8 minutes Cook Time: 2 minutes Makes: about 14 (2 inch) hearts Ingredients: • 1 cup brown rice syrup • 1 cup smooth peanut butter (or any nut or seed butter) • 4 cups organic crispy brown rice cereal • 1 cup freeze dried raspberries or strawberries (can be found at Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods or most any health food store) How to make: 1. In a large bowl, combine the rice

Dance

crisps and the freeze dried fruit.

2. In a large sauce pan, heat brown rice syrup and peanut butter over low heat and whisk until melted and combined, about 2 minutes.

3. Remove sauce pan from heat and pour over rice crisps in a large bowl.

3. Stir with a plastic spatula until

completely combined.

4. Pour into a greased 8 x 8 inch pan and press down to flatten the top (sometimes I put a zipper bag on my hand like a glove, to press into the pan and flatten the treats) 5. Cool for 5 minutes and then use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut into hearts.

Ice skating

Music lessons

Piano Lessons For Everyone

Steeplechase Ice Skating Center

at the Abe Stark Skating Rink West 19th Street & Surf Avenue Ages 4–Adult

718-253-8919 • 347-628-0663

LEARN TO SKATE PROGRAMS

Classes Saturdays 1:30-3:30 pm

Basic Skills 1-8, Hockey 1-3 Adult 1-4, Freestyle 1-6 & More Weekend classes • Credit cards accepted

Have Fun While Building Strength, Confidence & Coordination

135 Eastern Parkway

across from the Brooklyn Museum

Experienced, friendly teacher with MA in Music Student recitals twice a year • Six foot concert grand piano Near 2, 3, 4 & 5 Subways

Call me and let’s talk about what you or your child would like to learn Call Beth Anderson-Harold: 718-636-6010 or Email: beth@beand.com

We’re so Social

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

February 2022 | Brooklyn Family

29

tech

The 9 Best Kid-Friendly TikTok Accounts

By Maya LaidLer

T

ikTok is currently one of the most popular apps for kids, teens, and adults.

Especially for kids, TikTok can be a learning platform as well as an entertainment platform with all of the kid-friendly content on it. If your kid is under the age of 13 and wants to use the app, there is a section of the app where kids are only allowed to see clean and curated videos.

They are also not allowed to comment, search, or post their own videos to the platform. With so many different videos and accounts on the platform, it is important to watch videos that are worth your time and are actually entertaining.

Katzil

Minecraft has been one of the most popular video games for over ten years. Kids especially love the unrestricted amount of creativity they can use in the Minecraft world. Katzil is a TikTok account that showcases her own creations in Minecraft with timelapse footage and popular music that can inspire kids to create their own unique, magical builds.

Ealingfans

Catburnsglass

Hankgreen1

For more of a relaxing but interesting TikTok page, you can check out Netflix star Cat Burns’ TikTok page where she shows the different ways that she blows glass into incredible objects of art. Get captivated by the mesmerising process of glass blowing.

Hank Green, most known for his crash course YouTube videos that have been shown in classrooms across the country, has a TikTok account where he spreads positivity, fun facts, and corrects misinformation on the platform. He often reacts to other TikTok videos where he gives his scientific insight and shows his passion for the fun and crazy things that happen in nature.

Craftymoms

This TikTok is great for both moms and kids, with their fun DIY crafts, life hacks and recipes. Whether you find a DIY christmas tree made out of cardboard or a number association game made of recycled playdough caps, there are plenty of unique ways to have fun with your kids and make something new on this page. Kids also have fun looking at the crafty things that this mom and daughter duo get up to making with all of the fun colors and interesting concepts.

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NewYorkFamily.com | February 2022

This account unboxes different toy advent calendars, boxes, and goodie bags in short form multipart video series. The toys are always cute and with added sound effects, the videos keep kids very entertained. Fidget toys often make an appearance on their account with satisfying and calming sounds.

Naturalhistorymuseum

The Natural History Museum has its own TikTok! They post long and very interesting fun fact videos about their exhibits and human history. From facts about sharks and dodos to dinosaur bones and mammoths, there are so many interesting facts to learn on their account. There were even frequent guest appearances from Neil DeGrasse Tyson during World Space Week, who also has his

own TikTok account.

Jiffpom

You have probably seen or heard of Jiff the Pomeranian online and now this cute little dog has his own Tik Tok account! On his account, you will be able to watch Jiff go on fun adventures and try out cute trends that all kids will love.

Slime

As many parents know- kids LOVE slime.

Parents also know that slime can get very messy when playing with it in the house. To give you a break from the cleaning, but also still letting your kids have some fun, this slime Tik Tok account is the perfect way to keep them occupied. nasablueberry1

If your kids are obsessed with all things space, they will love watching this account!

Alyssa Carson makes videos that feature astronaut history, fun outer space trivia and so much more.

Camp We�k 202�!

Join us for a Live Webinar and meet camp directors in your area!

Monday, Feb. 7th:

12pm - 1pm - Manhattan

Tuesday, Feb. 8th:

12pm - 1pm - Sleepaway 3pm - 4pm - Queens

Wednesday, Feb. 9th: 12pm - 1pm - Long Island 3pm - 4pm - Staten Island

Thursday, Feb. 10th:

12pm - 1pm - Brooklyn 3pm - 4pm - Westchester New York Family & New York Metro Parents have teamed up to host a series of webinars giving parents an opportunity to log on to a live webinar and meet 5 day camps within their area.

We will be hosting webinars for parents in Long Island, Westchester, Staten Island, Queens, Manhattan & Brooklyn.

In addition, we will be hosting a webinar for families specifically looking for Overnight camps for their child.

After each camp director showcases their camp, attending families will have an opportunity to ask questions pertinent to their camp search in a moderated Q & A session.

Topics that will be covered: • What parents should focus on when choosing a camp • What are some of the most important benefits of camp • Safety protocols at camps in the time of Covid • What is the right amount of time to send your child to summer camp • Join us to hear and learn from these camp directors to help you and your family with their summer camp search!

NEW YORK FAMILY

For more information, please visit https://www.schnepsmedia.com/webinars/ or email summer@newyorkfamily.com

The Learning Ladder is a The The Learning Learning Ladder Ladder is is a a licensed center providing licensed licensed center center providing providing Infant/Toddler, Preschool, Infant/Toddler, Preschool, Infant/Toddler, Preschool, Afterschool and Summer Afterschool Afterschool and and Summer Summer Camps in Brooklyn, NY. Camps in Brooklyn, Camps in Brooklyn, NY. NY.

BALANCING CURRICULUM AND PLAY BALANCING BALANCING CURRICULUM CURRICULUM AND AND PLAY PLAY The Learning Ladder is a friendly, secure The The Learning Learning Ladder Ladder is is a a friendly, friendly, secure secure place where children are happily learning place place where where children children are are happily happily learning learning while playing.

We make learning fun by while while playing. playing. We We make make learning learning fun fun by by helping children accomplish goals and exceed helping helping children children accomplish accomplish goals goals and and exceed exceed challenges in a caring and positive environment. challenges challenges in in a a caring caring and and positive positive environment. environment.

OUR CENTER HAS: OUR CENTER HAS: OUR CENTERClassrooms HAS: • Spacious •• Spacious Classrooms Classrooms • Spacious On-Site, Fully Fenced Play Yard •• On-Site, Fully Fenced On-Site, Fully Fenced Play Play Yard Yard • Clean, Safe Environment •• Clean, Safe Environment Environment • Clean, Warm, Safe Caring Atmosphere •• Warm, Caring Atmosphere Warm, Caring Atmosphere • Open Door Policy •• Open Door Policy • Open 100% Door CPR Policy Certified Staff •• 100% CPR Certified Staff 100% CPR Certified Staff • 100% Epi Pen Trained Staff •• 100% Epi Pen Trained 100% Epi Pen Trained Staff Staff

n lla P n s a U n t P a e l s L P U t s e U L t Le ur Ch iilldd'''sss hh ild o C Y r u C o r Y u o Y irthda yy a d B y h a t r d B Biirtahrty!!

P P arrttyy!

Pa Inquire About Inquire About Inquire Our DoneAbout For You Our Done You OurParties Done For For forYou Parties for Parties ages for Children Children ages ages 1 Children to 5 years old.

11 to 5 years to 5 years old. old.

OUR CURRICULUM INCLUDES: OUR CURRICULUM CURRICULUM INCLUDES: INCLUDES: OUR • Music & Movement Music & & Movement Movement ••• Music Language Development Language Development Development ••• Language Science Exploration Science Exploration ••• Science Creative Exploration Arts Creative Arts Arts ••• Creative Gross Motor Play Gross Motor Motor Play Play ••• Gross Fine Motor & Self-Help Building Fine Motor & & Self-Help Building Building ••• Fine EarlyMotor ReadingSelf-Help Skills Early Reading Skills Skills ••• Early Quiet Reading Play Quiet Play Play ••• Quiet Dramatic Play Dramatic Play Play •• Dramatic

347-288-9218 347-288-9218 347-288-9218 LearningLadder.Enroll@gmail.com

LearningLadder.Enroll@gmail.com LearningLadder.Enroll@gmail.com 2082 Utica Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11234 2082 2082 Utica Utica Ave. Ave. Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY 11234 11234