Staten Island Parent - January 2023

Our expert tips on how to get unstuck and move at your own pace — at any time of the year

Happy New Year!

Welcome, 2023! If you’re knee-deep in resolutions you won’t keep, you’ll want to hear what Lifecoach Leah Wiseman Fink (page 12) has to say about resolutions (she’s not a fan). However, if quitting your job is definitely on a list, our piece, The Mom’s Guide to Quitting Your Job (page 32) from our sister site, Mommybites (mommybites. com), is worth reading.

With the holidays behind us, your family might be looking into your next winter adventure. Check out our list of Family Friendly Ski Resorts (page 28) to start planning your snow-filled getaway.

As always, you can check out our calendar (page 36) for fun, family-friendly activites all month long. If you haven’t already, go to siparent.com/signup to start receiving our newsletters, filled with new things to do every week, plus news, tips, humor, advice and more!

Jeannine Cintron

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BY BarBara russo

What’s Happening on S TATE n iS l A n D

name that nature!

Calling all junior animal and nature lovers! You’ll soon have an opportunity to adopt and name a piece of nature on Staten Island! Now how cool is that?

Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella and NYC Department of Environmental Protection Chief Operating Officer Vincent Sapienza joined forces to announce a program that lets schools name a nearby Bluebelt pond.

If you’re wondering what exactly a Bluebelt area is, they’re quite fascinating. Bluebelts preserve natural drainage corridors such as streams, creeks and ponds, provide important open spaces, serve as a habitat for some cool wildlife, and have many other benefits that help communities and the environment.

The new program is piloting at P.S. 52.

Fossella and Sapienza have asked students to present three options for naming a new large pond located near Hylan Boulevard and Seaver Avenue. Through the program, students will learn about the ecology of the Bluebelt systems and the environmental benefits to their neighborhoods.

The borough president’s plan is to extend the program to other schools that are in close proximity to Bluebelt ponds. Keep reading Staten Island Parent as we continue to follow the story!

appointments maDe to community eDucation counciL

Borough President Fossella recently announced the appointments of Daniella M. Caputo and Karen Esposito to the Community Education Council (CEC) for District 31.

The CEC serves as a parent advisory board providing input and comment to the superintendent, chancellor and the panel for educational policy regarding the needs of the district as well as DOE policy and implementation. They serve as advocates for all Staten Island parents, evaluating their district’s educational programs, approving zoning lines, and holding public hearings on certain matters.

Caputo has been practicing law in New York for over 30 years. She serves as a hearing officer with the New York City Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings. Previously, she was a suspension hearing officer for the NYC Department of Education. She has a Juris Doctorate from St.

John’s University School of Law. Caputo is a life-long resident of Staten Island and has a son in intermediate school.

Esposito devoted 29 years of her life to teaching math at I.S. 24, the Myra S. Barnes Intermediate School, until her retirement last year. She is an advocate for dyslexia and served on the planning team for Staten Island’s Bridge Preparatory Charter School. She also volunteers her time to organizations and causes she believes in including the Carl V. Bini Memorial Fund, Angel’s Circle, helping families after Superstorm Sandy ravaged Staten Island and many FDNY and 9/11 memorial events.

“We are pleased that both Daniella and Karen have accepted these appointments, and are confident they will work well with our Borough Hall education team to make the best decisions for our school community,” said Fossella.

speciaL-eDucation

There will soon be more seats and other resources available for preschool specialeducation students.

The city announced last month an expansion of early childhood education special-education support. The expansion will provide an early childhood education special-education seat for every child living with a disability by spring of 2023, city officials said.

Another focus of the expansion is teacher salaries. Educators of children with disabilities have historically been paid less than their general education peers. The new initiative includes an increase in pay for educators and providers.

“This expansion ensures not only that our youngest are provided the resources they need to succeed, but that the educators and caretakers who serve them are paid fairly and at a rate worthy of the life-shaping work they do,” Adams said.

The NYC early childhood education system currently does not have a strategic focus for serving young children with disabilities. The city is addressing this through a citywide contract enhancement process.

The first set of special education contract enhancements will be implemented across 65 provider contracts.

Approximately 3,000 seats across the sector will benefit, including 400 new seats to meet needs. By spring, an additional 400 new seats will be added for a total of 800 new seats. Additional seats will be stabilized by the contract enhancement process.

To learn more about NYC preschool special-education support, visit schools. nyc.gov.

nyc expanDing support for preschooL

north shore pL aygrounD reopens

It’s play time! Just in time for the new year, the playground at John E. White Park in Fort Wadsworth underwent a makeover! NYC Parks and other officials, along with community members, gathered recently to officially cut the ribbon on the renovation project and reopen the playground for kids to enjoy.

“We’re so happy to reopen this beloved playground for Staten Islanders, with brandnew equipment for our kids and toddlers,” Sue Donoghue, NYC parks commissioner, said. “Thanks to this $1 million investment from our elected officials, this new and improved playground will be ready to welcome Fort Wadsworth children for years to come.”

This is the first renovation of the playground in more than 20 years. The newly reconstructed playground includes

renovated play equipment for children 2-5 years old, a play house for toddlers, a spray shower, fencing, pavements, site furniture and decorative bins reflecting the historical character of the park, and new plantings.

The playground honors Staten Island World War I veteran John Edward White (1893-1918). Born in Fort Wadsworth, Staten

Island, White served as a trainman for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in St. George, Staten Island. Never marrying, White enlisted in the United States Army to fight in World War I (1914-1918) and became a member of the Allied Expeditionary Force. He gave his life assisting in the defeat of Germany.

City council member, Kamillah Hanks, and Staten Island BP Vito Fossella toured the site of the former Staten Island Hospital, Tompkinsville, and discussed ideas for redeveloping the area.

Possibilities so far include building a new education facility with additional school seats, as well as accessible housing for young people.

“I understand the significance of the site to the people of Staten Island, and I feel the best way to honor the site is to ensure its future development reflects the needs of our community,” Hanks said. “We are losing our young people to cooler, hip places like Hoboken. This site presents a great

opportunity to begin to turn that tide and provide housing for young people so they can begin to build a future for themselves on Staten Island.”

The old Staten Hospital was initially named the S.R. Smith Infirmary after a local doctor, Samuel R. Smith, and was built in the shape of a castle. It was eventually renamed Staten Island Hospital and additional structures were added. When Staten Island Hospital moved to its present-day site in Ocean Breeze in 1979, the structures fell into disrepair. The City Buildings Department declared it a hazard in 2011 and demolished it a year later.

important puBLic schooL Dates: January

Mark your calendar for these important public dates this month:

January 2 – New Year’s Day (observed), schools closed

January 16 – Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, schools closed

January 24-27 – Regents administration

January 30 – Professional Development Day for high schools and 6–12 schools; students in these schools do not attend

January 31 – Spring semester begins

The St. George Theatre, one of Staten Island’s most popular entertainment venues, recently announced the return of its in-person Art-in-Education series for the 2022-2023 academic year.

Sponsored by Richmond University Medical Center, the series includes shows that are not only fun for students, but connects them to their class curriculum. Upcoming shows focus on historical figures such as Jackie Robinson and Rosa Parks, as well as literary favorites like Percy Jackson and The Magic School Bus.

Teachers and other educators can book a class trip and see a list of upcoming shows on the website at stgeorgetheatre.com. All in-person shows start at 10am and have a runtime of approximately 60-70 minutes. Tickets are $12 per student/chaperone, or $15 for prime seating. Teachers and paraprofessionals are free.

st. george theatre announces 2022-2023 artsin- eDucation performances

eDucation faciLity among possiBiLities e yeD for staten isL anD hospitaL site

www.eyelevelny.comwww.eyelevelny.com

Forget the Resolutions!

Lifecoach Leah Wiseman Fink shares some year-round tips

by Donna Duarte LaDD

How many times have you created a resolution and ooff you either forgot you made one or worse, you dont keep it, and you feel bad about it?

Leah Wiseman Fink, a Lifecoach who works with corporate leaders to new moms, believes that resolutions are overrated. Leah shares, “I understand why people get hung up on January 1st, but what does it mean anyway? Leah adds, “Whether it is January or June, why not think about where you want to be right now? You’ll get there anyway!”

We chatted with Leah about ways to change your life, regardless of the time of the year. This month, don’t worry if you do not have a laundry list of changes or goals you want to accomplish. Instead, focus on what is possible at any time of the year.

There is always this pressure to make sweeping changes in the New Year, what are small ways a person can start to feel good about where they are in life?

One thing I’d recommend is to think about what you can add instead of what you can subtract. For example - instead of thinking about subtracting pounds, can you think about adding some health goals? And to continue with the health metaphor, instead of trying to cut out all sugar, get to the gym every day, and stop drinking, can you do one out of the three?

Another thing I am a big fan of is the list of appreciation. I often have my clients write down a list of 10 things they are grateful for daily. It makes a big difference in the mindset of knowing what you already have, and being settled and appreciative of what you have will naturally catapult you to the next level.

When in a rut, the kind you don’t even know how to start to get out, what are the first steps someone can take to climb out?

Although being in that space is rough, a small change is all you need to get started. In terms of the specifics, here are some tips.

Identify where you want to be, phone a friend, and ask for help.

Pinpoint a goal, whether big or small and then take steps to get there. I always suggest tangible goals, like signing up for a race.

Feel free to plan backward; what are the short workouts you have to do to get the harder ones? And build up from there. This can be applied to anything: a career move, finding a relationship, or a big move.

Remember -the only thing that will keep you stuck is not doing anything at all, so take a deep breath; you got this, and whether it is enormous strides or small steps, you are moving forward.

What are examples of realistic goals a person can make to feel less frazzled mentally?

Carving out time for yourself is essential, even in small ways like not reaching for your phone first thing in the morning. Then, I urge people to block out time in their schedules for things that fill them up. Can you drink a glass of water and stretch instead of worrying even for five minutes? Is there a dance class you can take? Can you get your partner to watch the kids so you can get out and grab drinks with friends?

Try an afternoon nap or, even in a minor

way, a walk around the block. The chunks of time don’t have to be huge, but they do have to be consistent.

Many people, especially moms, have challenges with creating boundaries. What are some healthy ways to develop them?

I define boundaries by figuring out what you want and not letting anything get in the way. Boundaries can be tough because in keeping with what is best for yourself, you sometimes make another person uncomfortable. To reference the sometimes-overused analogy, you must put the oxygen mask on yourself before putting it on anyone else.

Leah Wiseman

Fink holds Master’s degrees in Education Leadership and English Education with 12 years of a combination of work experience in consultancy, the NYC public school system, and higher education. As a Business Lifecoach, Leah helps women to figure out their path, see their worth and get their mojo back. Learn more at leahwisemanfink.com.

Is Your Child Ready for Sleepaway Camp?

By Jess Michaels

Thinking about overnight camp for your child? Attending overnight camp is an important experience for a child, helping them to gain independence, self-confidence, and resilience, which are all skills that are needed to become successful adults. But how do parents know when the right time is to send their child to camp?

It’s more than age

Many parents focus on the age of their child to figure out when the right time is for overnight camp, however, age isn’t the only factor when considering readiness. While there is no specific sign that can tell you that now is the time, there are certain indicators that can signal that a child is ready for the experience.

“I don’t feel there is a specific age to begin

going to overnight camp. It’s more dependent on an individual child’s developmental levels and maturity,” says Marc Rauch, Ph.D., licensed psychologist and director of Camp Kinder Ring, a coed overnight camp in Hopewell Junction, NY. “It’s important to closely examine and explore a child’s overall functioning in differing environments, as well as their personality, social skills, temperament and how they handle change and different situations. Does the child have the ability to self-soothe, display effective coping mechanisms and effectively verbalize their needs and wants? Some other readiness indicators include a child’s ability to appropriately separate from parents, accept guidance and supervision from others, a desire to sleep at varying peers households, eagerness to have playdates and a child’s displaying of an ability to meet new successes when challenged.”

Bolstering your child’s confidence Often parents feel their child is ready to go away to camp, yet their child is hesitant.

Laurie Rinke, director of Camp Echo Lake, a coed overnight camp in the Adirondacks says, “The biggest factor that determines a camper’s readiness is their parents’ ability to let their child borrow their confidence that they are ready for camp. If a parent says to their child ‘we found the right camp for you, we trust the directors, we know you can do this, and we know you will love camp,’ children can use their parents confidence to bolster their own. When a parent gives a child the sense that camp is the right place for them, that helps a child feel confident.”

Renee Flax, camper placement specialist for the American Camp Association, NY & NJ feels there is a big difference between gentle persuasion and pushing a child to go to camp. “Taking your child to visit the camp so they can see for themselves what camp is all about and meeting with the camp director to have them talk to your child are both helpful tools. However, if your child is adamant about not wanting to go, you do need to listen to what their concerns are. Some of them are fixable

issues that can be resolved such as they don’t want to go for too long a period of time or they want to know someone at the camp.”

Preparation is important

Once you make the decision to send your child to camp, preparing them for what camp will be like can help set your child up for a positive experience.

“Think about the things that your child will do at camp that they may or may not do at home like changing the sheets on their bed, combing their hair, applying sunscreen, and taking a shower independently,” commented Rinke. “Your child certainly doesn’t have to perfect these tasks and counselors will help them, but familiarizing your child with these tasks can allow them to feel more confident about doing them.”

Rauch says the manner in which a parent sets the stage for camp can ultimately seal the fate of whether or not the experience is successful. “Parents shouldn’t spend the entire academic year leading up to camp talking about it. The focus needs to be incrementally introduced to a child,

especially one who has some level of concern. When you talk about camp, always focus on the positives that lie ahead and don’t harp on how much a child will be missed, on how different home will be without them or on things that can go wrong. It’s also important for parents to work hard to not put their own anxieties about their children leaving home onto their children. The more comfortable a parent is with the overnight camp experience, the more comfortable the child will be.”

Other resources Camps also offer a lot of events and resources to help your child prepare for camp.

“There are new camper events, new parent events and Big Brother or Sister programs to give you and your child the confidence that they are going to love camp. I also encourage parents to read all emails, blogs, and parent information from your camp as there is valuable information that will help you and your child,” Rinke says.

Flax says: “The right time for a child to go to an overnight camp is when they are ready! Don’t worry what other people are doing – you need to assess how your child is doing emotionally and how mature they are before deciding to send them to an overnight program.”

“It’s important for parents to work hard to not put their own anxieties about their children leaving home onto their children. The more comfortable a parent is with the overnight camp experience, the more comfortable the child will be.”

Staten Island Mom Receives Leadership Award from Army

BY BarBara russo

Army veteran, Staten Island mom and college student, Ashley Plymale, believes that teamwork and a willingness to share knowledge are key virtues to follow. This is part of the reason she received a prestigious honor from the U.S. Army in October.

Plymale, 36, a business major at the College of Staten Island, was awarded the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award. It’s one of the highest honors the army gives out to company grade officers.

“I am extremely honored to have received the award,” Plymale, an Eltingville resident, said. “Though I have it displayed in my home, it is really a representation of all the men and women I have been able to serve with. I have never operated without the support of a team. I have had the privilege to work for and with some exemplary men and and women throughout my career. And I have been afforded the opportunity to work in positions that forced me to develop technical and tactical skills pretty quickly.”

Being selected

The GDMLA is presented to 24 captains and 4 chief warrant officers across all three army components. (These are active duty, reserve and national guard.) The award isn’t given out lightly, and the nomination process is very selective and rigorous. It requires a memorandum of concurrence, with explanation of why the commander concurs, from each level of command.

When asked why she thought she was chosen for the award, Plymale explained with a hero’s modesty. To her, it’s important to be a leader who helps the rest of the team. She stressed the importance of sharing knowledge and expertise. In other words, not holding on to important information that could help others.

“For me, the military is really about leadership and the continuum of knowledge. Passing it on from one generation to the next. I think that is what stood out to my superiors.” Plymale said.

Being a m ilitary m om Plymale is a 17-year veteran in the army.

a rmy Veteran a shley p lymale with her family after receiving the g eneral d ouglas m ac a rthur l eadership a ward

Born in Mobile, AL, she knew she wanted to enlist in the military after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. She served in Iraq and in many positions. Currently, she’s a chief of operations for a mission command support group. Simply put, she oversees a small team whose main function

is to ensure that their assigned units meet the requirements to deploy as detachments in support of operational missions around the world (phew!)

But Plymale, along with her wife Liliana, also oversees a small team at home: their two kids, Brice, 10, and Bailey, 6. Both women

are in the military. Although being in the army is a rewarding career, Plymale admits it’s not without its challenges on home life. Children of military parents often deal with many obstacles, including lengthy separations from their enlisted moms and dads, frequent relocations, lots of responsibilities at home and more.

Plymale knows how tough her career can be on her kids. She’s very proud of them and impressed by their resiliency.

“They have had to bear the burden of military service during Liliana’s and my deployment, and they’ve always shouldered it well,” she said.

She’s also very grateful to her kids’ school community—P.S. 55—for their ongoing support.

“We wouldn’t be able to be successful without a great school community and village to help us keep the kids on track when we aren’t able to be physically present,” Plymale said. “P.S. 55 is amazing.”

Being a college student

With so much on her plate, Plymale still finds

time to get another academic degree at CSI. A self-described life-long learner, she already has an associate degree and bachelor’s degree behind her. Currently, she’s majoring in business with a focus on management.

Like so many members of the armed forces, Plymale’s military service has helped her as a student in so many ways. This is especially true when it comes to discipline and resiliency. Having a strong family support network that includes her mom and dad has helped, too.

“I have a great support system and have had great examples of hard work from the time I was a child. My family has a very strong work ethic. This has helped me immensely in both my military and academic careers,” she explained.

What’s n ext for this m ilitary m om The CSI student wants to start a familyowned real estate business once she gets her next degree. And of course, her family will continue to be her focus. She’s scheduled to go back to active duty for operational support in Fort Dix, NJ, in January and has about three years left in the army.

“Serving in the military and carrying on the legacy of all those who have served before me has been the honor of my life,” Plymale said.

“For me, the military is really about leadership and the continuum of knowledge. passing it on from one generation to the next. i think that is what stood out to my superiors.”

education Education Goals for a New Year

How to set intentions for success for your child in 2023

By BarBara russo

Ahh, the new year is here—a time for making positive changes, and sticking with them! Now, as a parent, you know how important a good education is for your little student. So why not make some cool resolutions to help ensure a successful education for your child in 2023, and beyond?

Whether your child is struggling in school, has an A+ average or falls somewhere in between, there are so many ways to improve grades, test-taking skills and overall academic achievement at any age. You can set new goals, encourage reading, build a support system and so much more. We spoke with parents, education experts (and did some of our own online research!) to put together this New Year’s guide to help create and continue education success for your child throughout 2023. Save it, refer to it, and just keep it handy!

And don’t worry. Our resolutions aren’t all study, study, study. After all, we gotta have kids on board for their successful education, too. We’ve researched ways to make learning fun at any age, from toddler to teen.

(BONUS: Even as adults, you might learn a thing or two about how to increase your own wealth of knowledge!)

Ensure a Successful Education for Your Child in 2023

This is probably a no-brainer for most people, but education is important for a variety of reasons, including life success. And it doesn’t matter what kind of school your child goes to, whether it be public, private or any other type of institution. A lot of what can make a good education is what children, parents and teachers put into it.

Jennifer Cedro Puglia of Staten Island has two boys in Catholic school. To her, a good education leads to her kids being independent and focused on goals.

“A good education is a foundation for a better life and a better person,” she said.

Richie Blings, whose children attend NYC public school, agrees.

“I tell my kids that you’re an adult a lot longer than a child. So, go to school, learn and get yourself a great job,” Blings said.

A Resolution List for Preschoolers: Ages 3 to 5 Years

Pre-school age refers to kids ages 3 to 5 years.

These are important years for building a foundation for learning. And it doesn’t really matter whether you choose to keep your child home during these years, or enroll them in daycare or preschool.

But if your child does attend daycare or preschool, keep in mind they’re usually not given grades. They’ll also learn how to socialize, which can be tough to do at home. As Wendy Levey, an education consultant explains, preschoolers get assessments on

their attention span, focus, ability to count sequentially and share toys, and other factors.

If your child will be in preschool this year, whether he’s a new student or currently enrolled, Levey recommends the following resolutions for 2023:

Be Happy! Don’t leave your child at the door of his classroom looking like you’re about to cry. Wear a smile and go cry at Starbuck’s.

Homework : Find out what is going on in school and reinforce it at home. For example, if teachers have the kids washing their hands and dumping their snacks after finishing, do that at home, too.

Get Involved: Help with the school’s bake sell. Or go on a school trip. Things like this are not only beneficial for you, your child and the school...it’s also fun! And of course, parents/caregivers should arrive at school on time to drop their children off or pick them up.

Choosing to keep your kiddo home at this age? You’re not alone! Many parents choose this route for a variety of reasons. Check out these positive parenting tips from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that you can use to create your preschool-age New Year’s resolution list and help ensure a successful education for your child.

A Resolution List for Elementary, Middle and High-School Students

In NYC, kids enter kindergarten in the fall of the calendar year they turn 5. Elementary and middle school is the crux of their academic career, and should give them a great foundation for high school, college, trade school and eventually their chosen profession.

“I tell my daughter that her education is important for her success. There’s so much to be learned from school,” said Madeline Elena Vidal, whose daughter is in fourth grade. “Her education is important now, especially if she plans on going to college to further pursue anything. She also knows that college isn’t mandatory. Going to a trade school is also an option.”

Just like in preschool, it’s important to be involved in your child’s school work at the elementary and high-school levels. Gabrielle Gambrell, professor at NYU and Columbia University, says it’s important to devote time to talking about school to become invested in your child’s education.

“As both an educator and a parent, I know firsthand how important it is to show interest in your child’s education,” Gambrell,

who’s also the founder of Gift of Gabrielle, says. “This can be done by devoting time to discussing school with your child, their day, curriculum, classwork, homework, what they are excited about and beyond.”

There should be no interruptions with phones, electronics, or any other distractions. All emphasis should be on having sincere discussions about school and its significance.

“This time will also help you to identify what your child enjoys about school, learn their academic strengths, as well as if your child is struggling with anything or falling behind on their coursework,” Gambrell says. “Use this time to reiterate the significance of education and how proud you are of your child. When parents participate in their children’s schooling it makes a world of difference. During this time, be sure to remind your children to communicate their needs. This is a practice that children can learn early. It’ll help them throughout their academic journey.”

Here are some resolutions that will help your elementary, middle and high-school students this year:

Read Together : If you have younger children, read with them. Read books about starting the school year off right. Books with characters that your children can relate to can help boost their confidence about the year ahead. This allows an opportunity to discuss how your child feels about returning to school in 2023.

“It’s always wonderful to assess how your children are feeling and what they’re thinking about,” Gambrell says. “Be sure to show them that their feelings and thoughts are also your concern. Children should often be reminded

of how much their parents care about them. Reading together is a great way to start important and relevant conversations.”

Create an Environment for Learning : A dedicated home learning environment is instrumental to a child’s success. Does your child have a desk at home? Do you have a dedicated place for homework? Have a dedicated place where your children can sit and learn at home away from distractions.

Stick to a Good Bedtime (and Other Routines) : Routines are paramount to academic success. Setting a time and place for homework surrounded by all necessary supplies is pivotal to success. Receiving proper sleep is instrumental to be fueled for academic success.

“As we all know, getting enough sleep supports your child in feeling their best as it prepares them for a full day of learning,” Gambrell says. “Also, getting to school on time makes a difference in student success. Stay on schedule. The earlier children learn the significance of time management the better.”

Set Goals : Talk to your kids about what they want out of the school year, and what you want. Be a positive force in your child’s life. Affirm their successes. You can also reward your kids for doing well, getting better grades or just improving overall.

Ushindi Lewis, program coordinator at the New Jersey Youth Corps of Middlesex County New Brunswick Public Schools, underscores the importance of the role parents play in their child’s education.

“A parent can help reshape a student’s thinking about learning by encouraging the student to think of learning as a passion,” Lewis says.

Check Your Child’s Assignments : No matter what grade your child is in, parents should resolve to be actively checking assignment books and online assignment/ grading sites, explains Ryan Michele Woods, a teacher at Staten Island Academy with 18 years experience in the NYC Department of Education.

“Kids will often tell you they are on top of things, but in reality are having trouble organizing themselves and are overwhelmed,” Woods says. “Even if they say they can do it on their own, they may not be able to, and often aren’t. To be successful, parents need to be partnering in their accountability. This also prevents surprises at grading time.”

Woods added that this is especially important for upper elementary and middle school students.

“Use this time to reiterate the significance of education and how proud you are of your child. When parents participate in their children’s schooling it makes a world of difference.”

Academy Of St. Dorothy 1305 Hylan Blvd., 10305 Sr. Sharon McCarthy 718-351-0939 srsharon@ academyofstdorothy.org academyofstdorothy.org Academy of St. Dorothy (ASD) is a private elementary school in Old Town with a focus on academic excellence through a nurturing, collaborative learning environment. ASD instills in students, from pre-k through eighth grade, the religious and moral values of a Catholic Christian environment - community, service, reverence and leadership. ASD offers instruction, activities and sports on its vast and easily accessible 13-acre campus. Learn and Explore Preschool

St. Joseph Hill Academy 850 Hylan Blvd., 10305 stjosephhillacademy.com

St. Joseph Hill Academy Elementary School is a premier co-educational, pre-K 3 and pre-K 4 to 8th Catholic school. The school provides a traditional learning classroom environment that incorporates a variety of innovative learning models to provide instruction to students. At SJHA, students develop a lifelong love of learning.

a c t i v i t i e s a n d s p o r t s o n i t s ASDoffersinstruction,activitiesandsportsonits v a s t a n d e a s i l y a c c e s s i b l e 1 3 - a c r e c a m p u s vastandeasilyaccessible13-acrecampus.

Balancing Sports and Activities

The right fit for your child

By Donna Duarte-LaDD

As we move into winter, I have been spending my free time researching sports classes and extracurricular activities my kids will be doing this season.

I hadn’t planned it this way. I am a former Sports Mom, think stage mom of all things sports and after school, and this would be me. My mother never pushed my sisters and me to do sports. But my father was outdoorsy, and we did everything from track and skateboarding to racquetball and volleyball. And when my oldest son was a toddler, I enrolled him in his first soccer class. Watching him and his teammates figure out where exactly the ball was to go and why they couldn’t tackle or eat the netting was adorable.

Then it got serious. As the kids became older, they became more passionate, which meant more practice time and all-around parent involvement wasn’t just for a Saturday morning -practice weekdays were required. After soccer, we did basketball, flag football and then gymnastics. My son excelled in gymnastics, and I started to think – Olympics. Gold! But he hated it. He felt he was being pushed too hard, and the truth is, he was.

My youngest, who is autistic, had significant needs post-pandemic, requiring a lot of educational catch-ups and one on one time. And privately, as this ‘super sports mom,’ I was becoming unhinged with all that was on my plate. So we took some time off. This move was the best thing we could have done as a family. We focused on the youngest, his therapies and getting him into a specialty school. My oldest still participated in his afterschool activities, but as far as anything extra, we ceased it all for a bit. Having this time off also helped me get some perspective and realize it should always be about the kids and doing things they love.

And now, post-pandemic, post-time off, we are back. And here is why...we missed it. The practices, the running out the door early on Saturday mornings, even the snow days where I used to curse the weather as we trudged through the snow. But the truth is these kids wake up at dawn. Why not get out the door and be productive? And participating in a sport or an extracurricular

activity has enormous benefits.

Participating in a sport or extracurricular activity helps our kids to learn to communicate better, something they lacked during the pandemic. I can’t think of a better way for them to work on their social skills and come together with a group of kids of the same age (some from different schools!) and be part of a team or fine-tune a craft. Also, activities are not just sports; this is New York, where art, dance, theater classes (and more!) are plentiful. I am excited and nervous about all the future running around and the evening practices. But we’re ready and prepared to go with the flow and enjoy the ride. See you there!

Here are a few tips I learned during our hiatus:

For kids old enough, keep them involved . I never asked my son what he wanted to do. When one activity wasn’t his thing, we just moved on to the next. I never considered that maybe he didn’t like sports. He was excelling in afterschool classes of theater and dance and yet I continued to put him in sports classes. During our year break, I stopped pushing, and now he lets me know what classes he would like to try.

Step back if you have overscheduled your kids . If the classes, activities or weekend sports leave you or your family feeling like you’re losing it, step back. This doesn’t mean quitting. Skip a game or two. Talk to the coach and tell them you’ll miss a few classes. Take some time to ask why this is not enjoyable. Finish the class if you can, set new limits and work within the limitations you set up for your family when choosing the next set of classes and activities.

Ease up during the classes and games

We need to lighten up as parents, and I am as guilty as the next. In the past, my husband was the assistant coach for my son’s soccer team, which put added pressure on my son. The games, especially if the team lost, could be intense. Have fun. It’s only worth the stress if you have a future NCAA player and your kid is determined to make this something more. Work on having a healthy sense of competitive balance, especially in sports, so your child sees you are happy, win or lose.

Know your bandwidth . Learning from past mistakes — I am scheduling classes and activities close to home and maybe mixing it up, some afterschool fun, a weekend here and there, or a one-off or two class.

Family-�riendl� Ski Res�r�s

BY NEW YORK FAMILY

Are you looking for a winter getaway?

Take a ski trip with your family at these family-friendly ski resorts. There are a ton of ski resorts and ski slopes to choose from, so we rounded up our top 5 picks. Many resorts have gentle slopes and “ski school” for kids and adults, so no prior ski experience is necessary to have winter fun. Pack your bags for your next weekend stay at a New York ski resort!

Smugglers Notch

4323 VT-108, Jeffersonville, VT 05464

For your next family ski trip, head to Smugglers’ Notch, Ski Magazine’s #1 resort for families for the last 20 years! The 78 trails, eight lifts, and the highest vertical drop in Northern Vermont at 2,610 feet is not only a winter wonderland – it’s designed to deliver the ultimate ski experience.

There are multiple terrain parks and 1,000 acres of skiing and riding. For fall, enjoy the beauty that is Vermont with outdoor activities and crisp air fun. Come winter, kids will love snowshoeing, tubing, cross country skiing, swimming, Fun Zone 2.0, ice skating.

The Smugglers’ Notch Resort’s mission is to give families an experience that they will cherish for life, and it’s no wonder many make visiting a yearly ritual. Smugglers’ condominiums are located in wooded spots with mountain views or make your home in one of the condos closer to the village. The convenient, cozy, family-style lodgings with fully equipped kitchens and more are perfect for the entire family. If you don’t ski (some of us prefer to lounge and drink hot chocolate, and there’s no guilt in that!), the “Winter Experience Package” offers you a Cat Trax ride to the top of the mountain for a view of the fireworks on Thursday nights.

We all know kids can go 24/7 – there are activities for everyone such as Bingo, Family Feud, nightly hot chocolate by the bonfire, the fireworks we mentioned on Thursday night, and more. For those tweens who need extra, there is a Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop, nighttime tubing; a new Teen Center called The Alley with Virtual Reality quests and Xbox Live, Night School for Boarding, and Jibbing.

Mount Peter

51 Old Mt Peter Road Warwick, NY 10990

Mount Peter may be the only ski and snowboarding destination initially started (in 1936) by Macy’s Department Stores as a “showroom” to sell their ski fashion. Very très chic and New York. As one of the oldest operating family-owned ski spots in the country, it is a special place for families to visit or discover each winter. Located in Warwick, NY, it is about one hour from NYC

— making for a convenient day trip and a great spot to learn to ski or get in a day of skiing, snowboarding or tubing.

Known for their free beginner ski and snowboard lessons on weekends and holidays, this is the perfect spot when the kids are ready to ski or for mom or dad to learn the art of skiing or snowboarding. Super family- friendly, this spot consists of a combination of locals, city peeps, and tourists worldwide. There is a reason Mount Peter is called New York’s family mountain!

Mount Peter features 14 trails for skiing or snowboarding and a 600-foot tubing run. Rates are affordable, which parents will appreciate if bringing a large group. If you don’t own skis, no problem, as there is a daily ski rental barn where you can rent skis, snowboards, poles, and helmets.

Tip: we suggest heading to the rental shop as soon as you arrive as the line can get long, and we all know that kids have little patience when the fun is around the corner. For tasty food, the lodge serves food and Pete’s Pub offers adult beverages as well as a gift shop!

Belleayre Mountain

181 Galli Curci Rd., Highmount, NY 12441

Belleayre Mountain’s excellent skiing, reasonable pricing, and year-round activities make it one of the best family-friendly ski resorts in Upstate New York.

We love their heated gondola that keeps us nice and warm on the slopes. With a variety of downhill courses, a snowsports school offering classes for kids, teens, and adults, and summer activities like biking, hiking, and Belleayre Beach, this resort has something for everyone at almost any time of year. Located just north of Big Indian Wilderness, it is just over a twohour drive from NYC.

Plattekill Mountain

469 Plattekill Rd., Roxbury, NY 12474

Located in the northwestern Catskills, Plattekill Mountain is a different breed of ski resort. This privately owned and operated resort, affectionately called “Platty” by the many ski enthusiasts who visit regularly each year, offers a unique family vibe that visitors love. Skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing fun can all be found on the mountain,

but visitors will also find a welcoming atmosphere, plenty of smiles, and unique experiences.

At just about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the city, it’s a great option for getting in some great skiing and feeling like you found a second home.

Gore Mountain

793 Peaceful Valley Road, North Creek, NY 12853

Located on the eastern edge of the Siamese Ponds Wilderness, Gore Mountain has something for everyone all year round.In the winter months, visitors can take advantage of 110 trails and 14 lifts on New York’s biggest mountain. The resort also offers classes and private lessons for kids, teens, and adults.

With a variety of beautiful accommodation options and delicious dining choices, the mountain is an all-season resort destination that’s widely considered to be the best in all of New York and in the upper echelon of the northeastern US. It’s well worth the drive of just under four hours from NYC to get there.

The Mom’s Guide to Quitting your Job

By Kim RittBeRg

If you’re going 100 miles per hour in a car and you try to smell the roses, you’re going to get whiplash. As a recovering workaholic, I should know. I spent fifteen years as an executive producer in national television news and the entertainment industry, creating content for Netflix, Fox, Us Weekly, Nordstrom, Target, AT&T, and more. For years, I was content being in the center of the rat race, until the day I was in the hospital delivery room, awaiting the imminent birth of my second child. Between the panting and the eagerness of this moment, I found myself on the phone frantically reviewing resumes after a messy corporate acquisition led to some of my 17-person staff fleeing the job. At that instant, as if a lightbulb suddenly turned on, I had my moment of truth: this was not the life I wanted anymore.

Working in media is a nonstop gig, and loyalties aren’t always reciprocated. I’d leveled up in the industry by saying “yes” to everything for more than a decade. Now, as a mother of two, I needed to start saying no and begin prioritizing myself, my family, and my life. And so, nearly cold turkey, I quit, finally removing myself from the neverending hamster wheel of the corporate world. While today I am happier than I’ve ever been both professionally and personally, the first year on my own was filled with doubt, confusion, and feelings of isolation. In the hopes that this advice will help you create a career path that leaves you fulfilled and happy, here are the things I wish I knew when making the decision to quit my corporate career.

1. Identify what you don’t like about your current work situation

Imagine it’s 90 degrees out, and your kids say they don’t like going to the beach or the pool. So then what? Sitting indoors all day will not actually bring them joy, despite

their insistence to the contrary. Likewise, slamming that metal door behind you and marching out of that gray office with no set plan will not bring you the life you want.

Ask yourself: is there something specific you dislike about your job? Or does it extend to your career as a whole? Do you want fewer hours, or would having a boss who doesn’t micromanage you solve your problem?

Answer those questions before handing in your resignation notice.

It was absolutely clear to me that I wanted to work for myself. I wanted control of my career and flexibility within my schedule. I didn’t want to sprint home from the office at 5:30 to steal an hour with my daughter before bed. I didn’t want to pretend to be at a doctor’s appointment to take my son to swim class. I was excited to leave office politics behind and focus on the work. I figured worse comes to worse, I could always find another job in my field if it didn’t work out. However, it still took me two full years to gather up my “3 C’s”: courage, confidence, and clarity, to really do it. It’s okay to take it slow, but not so slow that you’ll be ready to retire by the time you pull the ripcord!

2. Don’t use other people’s definition of success

Dr. Lisa Damour, PhD, host of the podcast Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Parenting says it’s important for you to define your own success:

“It is easy to look at the people around us and think ‘well if they can do that I should be able to do that. Or why am I not doing what they’re doing?’ The question is ‘Can you be your own yardstick’? Can you decide for yourself what would be gratifying?”

For me, in my grasping (and gripping tightly) for a more balanced life, I had some big realizations. I recognized that I had to give up a title and a job that perhaps seemed glamorous to the outside world. Once I removed my ego from the decision and focused on the fact that it was my choice, and that my overall hap-

piness and balance was more important than any title, I felt freer. Ironically, once I set those external measurements aside, that’s when I started earning industry awards!

3. Start networking! I don’t mean meetups in mahogany bars with sad peanuts in small bowls — actually any social interaction can be “networking.” Coffee, wine, volunteering, pickleball session, surfing… you get my point. Any time you’re connecting with others, you’re networking. In deciding how big or small you want to grow your business, and as you begin to price your services, utilize networking to get more insight into what your standards should be. Leadership coach Leah Wiseman Fink says, “Money’s not an ugly dirty topic. Ask your friends and industry peers what they charge, tell what you charge.”

Connect with your first, second and third degree contacts on social media and on email – they will be your biggest cheerleaders and referrers, at least at first. My first big client came from a referral from a professional contact. That led to a long term consulting project and gave me the confidence to tell myself, ‘I can actually do this.’

Networking (or socializing, as it should be reframed) may seem daunting when you’re in transition. Neha Ruch of Mother Untitled, a community for ambitious moms leaning in to family life, has advice on owning your story. When someone asks “What do you do?”, Neha recommends answering with “This is what I’m doing right now. I’m choosing to ___” (and fill in the blank with whatever path you’re on). This comes from a place of choice and a position of power, instead of a position where you’re not wriggling in your seat answering, “Um, I used to be… and now I am sort of …” Own your choice!

4. Get a mom posse Remember when you had your first baby and

you felt totally lost, wondering “How do I do this? What did I get myself into?” So you desperately befriended every mom with a stroller?

Find other moms who are working outside the 9-to-5. Your close friends who are climbing the corporate ladder may or may not understand your new challenges.

In my experience, when you tell people you quit your job, some of them will look at you like you have three heads. This is why you must find the people who will celebrate your choice and cheer you on! Other self-employed moms, consultants, stay-at-home moms with side hustles, they will be the ones texting you with balloon emojis when you land a client and grumpy emojis when you’re chasing

down an invoice. (Sorry, yes, those things sometimes happen!)

5. Remember your priorities

Panicking that you made the wrong decision? About to start job-hunting again? Tune out the noise! Sometimes I can still feel the buzzing energy of the ‘rat race’, but I’m trying to stay true to the reasons I decided to work for myself: I wanted more time with my kids and more control over my schedule. If I’m spending 60 hours a week ‘networking’ and posting on social media, why did I make this career change? Surely there is a different and smoother path?

Believe in yourself. You can do it. I promise.

My journey from burnt out media exec to founder of an award-winning video strategy company led me to launch Mom’s Exit Interview, a resource for moms who want to thrive without the 9-to-5. These tips and advice come from the awesome guests on our show – and myself!

Kim Rittberg is the host of Mom’s Exit Interview – http://moms-exit-interview.com and is a Gold Telly Award winner, Webby Honoree, a Content Strategy Expert and Creative Executive Producer in TV, digital video, and audio. She has been a speaker and instructor at PENN, Syracuse, and General Assembly and is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Annenberg School. Visit her website here: Kim Rittberg

Babba Rivera

On paying tribute to her Latin culture as the founder of the clean hair brand Ceremonia, reimagining self-care, sustainability and what it means to be authentic

By Mia Sala S

Ever since I spoke with Babba Rivera (@Babba), Ceremonia founder and mother of two, I couldn’t stop thinking about something she said. When I asked Babba about self-care, she said: “It’s not a destination, it’s a way of living.” When I asked her about sustainability, once again, she said: “It’s not a destination, it’s a way of living.” In our modern day of TikTok wellness influencers who take us through their daily skin-care vlogs, to fashionforward Gen-Zers showing off their vintage wear on Instagram, we’re entering a new era. This era, one where self-care, sustainability, among other things, are seen as everyday practices to be the best version of ourselves, is one that Babba is already familiar with. In fact, she’s leading it in the beauty industry.

Babba is challenging the status quo in these spaces to encourage a new way of thinking– one that requires intentionality and flexibility to grow. Ultra-mini uggs are trending. So what? Glass bottles are a sustainability practice precedent. So what? I learned from Babba that just because something is popular now or was the standard before, doesn’t mean it’s the future, and it definitely doesn’t mean that it’s you. The new era that Babba invites us into is one where we can be our authentic selves, where we are encouraged to tap into our inner creativity and create our world accordingly. Read on to hear how Babba’s brand Ceremonia (@myceremonia) is innovating a lot more than hair care.

Let’s first discuss your Latinx heritage. How has your family and culture influenced your hair care brand?

I am from Sweden and grew up very closely connected to my culture thanks to my parents, both from Chile. I was raised in a Spanish speaking household where Tia’s and Tio’s would come and go as they pleased and salsa played on repeat. Rituals were deeply rooted in my upbringing.

I have many fond memories with my family pertaining to rituals - beauty in particular. My father was a hairdresser back in Chile and would spend hours braiding my long hair, and my mom and aunties would invite me to their beauty practices using natural ingredients they knew and loved from passed down customs. My mother also taught me self-worth by practicing it herself, carving out the space for two hour baths and showers unapologetically as a mom of two. She also led by example in how she treated her skin and hair with nourishing products focusing on moisture and care versus styling and masking. What I loved most was the strong sense of community I learned from home as well as the healthy relationship to beauty I learned from my family as a form of self-care. Through Ceremonia, I pay tribute to my Latin culture because there is so much to be celebrated. From the powerful ingredients that are native to the region, to the rich rituals around beauty as a form of selfcare and self-love, not to mention the attention to care that goes into beauty as a whole.

We also know that self-care is top of mind with your brand. Can you tell us a little more about how you envision wellness and self-care in Ceremonia?

Self-care and wellness, for me, it’s not an end destination. It’s almost a way of living. It’s easy to deprioritize when you’re busy, but that’s when you need it the most. So with Ceremonia, we try to create every day rituals that are attainable, that can be those little pockets of joy throughout your day. One of our best selling Duos, the Sunday Reset Duo, is a papaya scalp scrub and a hair mask with babassu. These two products have become my sacred Sunday reset. Every Sunday, I take a bath and I give myself this deep exfoliating cleanse with the scalp scrub, which is basically a shampoo but more of a treatment shampoo that I use once a week. Then I put on the hair mask, and I let it sit in my hair for 15 minutes. I need to wash my hair that day anyway, but through

this ritual, it’s become a more joyful experience. That’s really what we try to do with the brand: making it possible for people to find every day joy in things that they need to do anyway. Let’s upgrade that experience.

Sustainability is also top of mind for your brand. What does sustainability mean to you, and how do you see it shaping the beauty industry?

Sustainability is such a big topic. For me, it’s similar to self-care: it’s not a destination, it’s a way of living. It’s a way of constantly learning and iterating. There is so much innovation happening within sustainability, which obviously is super cool, but sometimes I feel like the solutions become very gimmick-y and actually not really impactful at scale. It’s more like a thing that consumers can feel good about, and the brands can get a lot of PR around, versus actually having a sustainable impact.

A great example is one of the most common questions we get is: “Why don’t you use glass bottles? That would be more sustainable.” The reality is, it actually is not. We use post-consumer-recycled (PCR) materials. The reason we do that is because when we look at the entire carbon footprint and the recyclability of PCR, it’s much more sustainable than glass. Glass is great if you refill. If you keep the glass bottle in its original shape and you use it over and over again, then it’s more sustainable. But if you’re recycling glass, it’s actually very energy intensive. Not to mention the shipping implications of glass versus something much lighter like PCR. There’s this idea that it’s better if it’s glass because that feels more sustainable, but actually when you look at the bigger picture, is it really? For Ceremonia, it’s a lot about having that balance between perception versus reality, and we try to stick to the reality part. Even though sometimes we spend 5 times more on a solution that is not perceived, necessarily, as super sustainable and we don’t get any “green points”, we know that

we’re doing the right thing. We see sustainability more so as our responsibility towards the Earth, not a marketing tool.

How has motherhood influenced your dayto-day life?

It’s influenced me so much. It’s the greatest joy. I never thought those words would come out of my mouth, to be quite honest. I was so focused on my career and really terrified of motherhood. I was worried that becoming a mom would compromise my identity and career. What I found is that it’s only been additive. It’s been an addition to my life, versus a limitation. I feel more confident than ever in my own skin. There is this sense of confidence that settles when you have your own children, like nothing else matters. Worst case scenario, I still have my children. It doesn’t matter how this career goes, or I don’t even care if someone is mad at me. I have my children. It’s a very powerful and grounding experience. It’s also made me more productive than ever. I have many more boundaries, and I almost feel like nothing can get to me…except for something with my kids. If my kids are sick, then I’m so worried. So the downfall of motherhood is you’re always worried about your kids. But the plus side is you’re never worried about anything else.

What advice do you have for womxn, particularly those of underrepresented backgrounds, who are thinking of starting their own businesses too?

Do it. The reality is, just like with kids, there’s never such a thing as good timing. I don’t think it’s wise to wait for the perfect time to present itself, because usually you just have to decide for yourself that this is the perfect timing. That’s how it goes with any decision. There are no decisions that are right or wrong. It’s just how you decide to perceive them.

About starting a business though, I will say that it’s liberating, but also very intense. Ask yourself why you want to run your own business. What’s the mission behind it? What’s the purpose? Then make sure you’re setting yourself up for success to live up to that purpose. There are people that start businesses because they want to work less. That’s fine, then you’re setting up the business according to that. Then there are people that start businesses because they want to make a lot of money. Okay, how will you do that? Just be honest with yourself about why you’re doing it, and that will help guide all of the decisions.

This article has been edited for clarity and brevity. To read the piece in its entirety, please visit newyorkfamily.com.

Photo by Yumi Matsuo

calendar

Things To do in January

By BarBara russo

With the start of the new year comes lots of events for families and kids to enjoy! Here are some of this month’s most exciting events in Staten Island and nearby. Be sure to call ahead or visit event websites to confirm details. Go to siparent. com/events for info on the events listed here and even more stuff to do with your family throughout the month and all year long!

NYC Lantern Festival

Fridays-Sundays, 5-9:30pm, through Jan. 8.

SIUH Community Park 75 Richmond Terr.

See beautiful, dazzling displays of hand-made Chinese lanterns, ride illuminated swings and enjoy lots of food options at this fun event.

NYBG Holiday Train Show

Through Jan. 16. Hours at nybg.org. New York Botanical Garden 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY See model trains zip through a display of more than 190 replicas of New York landmarks, each re-created from natural materials such as bark, leaves and cinnamon sticks.

Look At Me: Staten Island Wildlife Art Exhibition

H.H. Biddle House in Conference House Park 70 Satterlee St.

Weekdays through Feb. 28. This new art exhibit by Donna Napoli-Steele is inspired by the increasing diversity of wildlife being seen around Staten Island.

First Day Hike

Sunday, Jan. 1; 1pm

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve

2351 Veterans Rd. West

Start the new year off with a fun 2-mile hike through Clay Pit Ponds. An educator will guide the group and answer questions.

New Year’s Day Super Hike

Sunday, Jan. 1; 1-3pm Clove Lakes Park Martling Avenue and Brooks Pond Place

It’s time to put your New Year’s resolution of getting healthy into action by joining the Urban Park Rangers on this cool hike. You’ll enjoy nature, explore the trees and and learn about the city’s urban forests.

Portrait Practice Friday, Jan. 6; 6-7pm

Greenbelt Recreation Center 501 Brielle Ave.

Head to this art program that is great for all levels to learn the skills to create beautiful portraits.

Baby Boot Camp: Parenting Tool Box

Thursday, Jan. 5; 7-9pm Bernikow JCC 1466 Manor Rd.

First-time parents can be extremely overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. Join Dr. Vladimir Barayev, a local pediatrician, as he puts your mind at ease by giving you the tools you need to succeed as a new parent. For more information, contact Lisa at LLubarsky@SIJCC.com or 718-

475-5223.

JCC Day Camp Reunion Sunday, Jan. 8; 3:15-5:30pm

Bernikow JCC 1466 Manor Rd.

Reunite with camp friends and counselors. Head to the JCC for a fun afternoon featuring bouncy inflatables, a glow dance party and ice cream treats. (Registration required.)

Make Snow Slime!

Wednesday, Jan. 11; 4-5pm

Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd.

Calling all teens and tweens: Make your own fluffy snow slime at the library. Supplies will be provided.

The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden runs through Jan. 16.

Collectibles Festival For Kids and Families

Saturday, Jan. 14; 10am-5pm Wildwood Convention Hall 4501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ Features comic books, gaming, trading cards, toys and more.

Rock and Roll Playhouse: The Music of Coldplay for Kids

Sunday, Jan. 15; 12pm Brooklyn Bowl 61 Wythe Ave., Brooklyn Head to this family concert that shares the music of Coldplay with a new generation of music lovers.

Maple TapFest

Saturday, Jan. 21; Two sessions: 10am and 1pm

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve 2351 Veterans Rd. West Learn how to tap maple trees during this sweet and fun outdoor event. Register online.

Lunar New Year Celebration

Sunday, Jan. 22; 11am-2pm

Staten Island Zoo

614 Broadway

Kick off the Year of the Rabbit with a Lunar New Year celebration at the zoo. Enjoy keeper talks, crafts, and meet ambassador animals featuring the animals of the zodiac!

Make a Kaleidocycle!

Wednesday, Jan. 25; 4-5pm Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Blvd.

Head to the library to make a kaleidocycle, a kinetic paper sculpture that you can flex and rotate to show new drawings, patterns or stories.

Pet Rabbit Education Event

Saturday, Jan. 28; 11am Merrick Library 2279 Merrick Ave., Merrick, NY

The Long Island Rabbit Rescue Group will be at the library for a special pet rabbit education event. Learn about rabbit care, adoptions, fostering and more. Plus, meet a special spokesbunny!

300 Bay St, 10301

JANUARY 1

Kellie Grant

Tiffany-Ann Elie Valentina Bulone

Daniella B. Durojaiye Stella Monaco Nehmaiah Satchell X’

JANUARY 2

Christopher Bocola Paul Michael Bronski Nevin Ibroci Naim Ibroci II Brianna Piccirillo Jacob Ajodha Bayan Rahman

JANUARY 3

Monica Kobayashi Skyla Rose Paolino

Jarrett Serate Manny Camardo Shawn Kafader Dylan Spinosa Daniel Centeno

JANUARY 4

Erica Holzer

Caitlyn Holzer

Megan Nagengast

Jalla Taylor

Manwel Gorgy

Philip Gorgy Ana Diaz Fiona Hansen

Keaton Perina

JANUARY 5

Alyssa Ryan

Travion Francis

Mariham Tharwat

Damien Joseph Cruz

Nicholas Spaan Michelle Avila

Oniesha Johnson Milania Cordova

JANUARY 6

Robert Goldy

Calavetta Raymond Henry Pitre Elizabeth Maira

Jesse Jobin

Robert Terzino-Torres Michael Del Rio Adam Carrasquillo Carson App

JANUARY 7

Briseis Scott Brianna Mirochnik Gabriella Carrasquillo Olivia Ryan Lucas Guadalupe Eddie Ortiz Angelina Conigliaro

JANUARY 8

Christina Adinolfi Melissa Hughes Timothy Casserly Vincent Mattaliano Jolene He Jace McCarthy Jonathan Gilsenan

JANUARY 9

Jonathan Jose Sheehan

Joseph Depaulo Madison-Skyy Williams Amy Romero Daniel Stege Salvatore Bongiorno Tracy George Noah Rodriguez Cortes

Jacob Paterno Mia Mazzamuto Vienna Quintana

JANUARY 10

Lasaun Turner

Giovanni Depaolis Matthew Wu Meghan Russo Jason Young Jayden Foster

Lauren Thompson Cassia Vetere

JANUARY 11

Brittney Negron Kevin Robert Lott Allison Yeneic Valentina Gandolfo Taylor Clanton Austin Pierce Cordelia BurkeDeCamillis Ryley Colligan

JANUARY 12

Alexis Compton Christopher DePaulo Fallon Rose Bottali Hunter Canada Skylar Di Paola Jason Foxman Kathleen Capofari

JANUARY 13

Michael Adeyanju Olivia Devoti Angelica Pettinato Joel Rivera

Luca McLean-Egitto

George Vales Joseph Gentner George Vales Reichel Klein

JANUARY 14

Samantha Del Rio Alexa Geloso

Angelina Delmar RaeAnne Kascle Emma Devlin Yolanda Carrington James Carlsen Donatella Sacco

JANUARY 15

Bridget Keag Michael Varriano Brett Erichsen Justin Guash

Thomas Westgate Mariah Camacho Logan James Nieva Lena Bryson

Thomas Westgate Emmanuel Papageorgiou

JANUARY 16

Alexander Olinsky William Smith Mekenzie Gonzalezå Gabriella Paniss Connor Pannell Lyle Steinhart James Rodriguez Tyler Condon

JANUARY 17

Anthony T. Arpaia Julie LoPresti Jordan Sesny Luciano Turano Crystal Nerone Gianna Maniscalco Lea Ramos

JANUARY 18

Ryan Crimmins Jayani Ganewattage Jonathan Fede Olivia Martorano Kassidy Burke Kelsey Burke Gionni Hoyt

Jaxon Papio Olivia Martorano

JANUARY 19

Adriana Maldonado Kaiitlynn Marie Vazquez

Alyssa Grunhaus Ryan Starita Lea Price

Isabella Smith Lauren Dirago Isabella Garomo Ross Koffler

JANUARY 20

Casey Nelson Rocco Fruscione Casey Bowden Kelly Hynes Mackenzie Brice Kaysie Fenton Aurelia Cruz

JANUARY 21

Josephine Marie Pikowski Amanda Mangano Burnias Joshua Jones Jessica Benedetto Alexandra M. Cochon Stephanie Radolinski Ezekiel Gonzalez Gabriel Ayling Daniel Rojas

JANUARY 22

Neyla Ibroci Stefanie Pitre Gail Lemberg Nekoela Bishop Alexis Jacobs Matthew Rhoden Tiana Marie Castro Destin Rogers East Datuin

JANUARY 23

Sanuli Dharmawardena Bryanna Fail Caitlyn Nicole Murphy Ariel Burgos

Amanda Palmer Vincent Brennan Valentina Espejo Benjamin Rrakulli Veronica Arciprete Tiffany Sansalone

JANUARY 24

Zuri Bishop Matteo Corallo

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Tyler Goldstein Jenesis Rios Serenity Rios Sabelle Fels Adele Coogan Michael Seise Andrew Guzman

JANUARY 25

Christopher R. Carbone Gabrielle Burfeind Michael John Ahr Jamie Daluise Lucas Wohlstette Kemee TolbertEldridge

JANUARY 26

Nicole Lee Giambrone Emily Gonzalez Francesca Delapi Johnny Marsh Zachary Bellantoni Jaelin Lau Grace Assile Audrianna Wilkie C’niyah Jennings

JANUARY 27

Jordan Hafizi Nina Russo Kimberly Modolo Jake William Maiello Vincent Conte Nahki Brunson Elijah Cepeda Basaam Abdelrasoul

JANUARY 28

Joseph Lopez Daniel Bodin Jasmine Shea Joseph Guerci Demyra Cruz Cassidy Moscoso RYan Ruiz Madison Shearin

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JANUARY 29

Julia Santiago-Vergo Arianna Milito Isabella Vega Logan WilkersonWaters Jamiel Ross Layla Salzano Christian Forlenza Hilayne Bacchus Rebecca Bianco Nicholas Joseph

JANUARY 30

Joseph Lopez Mia Garofalo Cody Wenzell Victoria Moreno Bruce Sosa Samuel Quinn Aleeyah Milhouse

JANUARY 31

Devin Hernandez Dylan Litmanovich Justice Fashaw Gabriella Loiacono Artemis Allen Angelina Mikail Brianna Jimenez Avery DiCaro Artemis Allen

Public Session 2:30-4:30pm 8-11pm

Public Session 2:30-4:30pm 8-11pm

Public Session 2:30-4:30pm 8-11pm

Public Session 2:30-4:30pm 8-11pm

Public Session 2:30-4:30pm

Public Session 2:30-4:30 pm 8-11 pm

Public Session 2:30-4:30pm

Public Session 2:30-4:30pm