Staten Island Parent - August 2024

Additional Hair: @kristinfalcone_

Eyebrows: @michellemakeup606

Cover Story Writer: Jeannine Cintron

Produced: Donna Duarte-Ladd & Jeannine Cintron

Shopping credits: @shopcomewhatmae, @prettychaosboutique

Still Summer

Like it or not, those back-to-school messages are starting to roll in. While we all want to cling to the joys of summer for as long as possible, that doesn’t mean we can’t multitask.

The 10 Best Afterschool Programs and Activities (page 22) and our Education Listings (page 16) will help ease you back into the school mindset.

Fresh produce is a summer staple. Our Ultimate Guide to Pick-Your-Own Farms lets you know what your family can find by season throughout the year. Fun fact: it’s peach season right now!

Regardless of our children’s ages, we’re all concerned about social media. We have all the details on what a Warning Label for Social Media (page 10) would entail.

Speaking of social media, TikTok consumers might be familiar with ARFID, an eating disorder that has been getting viral attention for parents of kids with bad eating habits lately. Find out if your child is Not Just a Picky Eater (page 20)

Lastly, our cover mom is Staten Island’s own Lisa Marie Riley (page 32), who began

posting funny videos to social media as a way of coping with her late husband’s illness and the stress that accompanies a loved one’s sickness. To her surprise, she became a comedian! Learn about her healing journey and her love for humor, food and family.

Jeannine

Comments? Questions? Suggestions? Email Jeannine at jcintron@siparent.com Get news, tips and humor all month long: siparent.com/signup

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What’s Happening on sTAT en i sl A n D

young entrepreneurs business FAir

Calling all business-minded young Staten Islanders! Created for You Artist’s Market is offering an opportunity to showcase some creativity and business skills for the Island’s youth. Their Young Entrepreneurs Business Fair invites kids and parents to dive into all things business.. The event takes place at the Empire Outlets (55 Richmond Terrace) on Saturday, September 7, 2pm to 8pm. It is open to all children, teens and young adults ages 8–21 (consideration made for younger participants). Parents will receive tips and advice on how to help their children’s businesses flourish and there will be a multitude of resources available for doing so, including a workshop on financial literacy marketing and branding hosted by the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce! Vendors can register online at www. createdforyouartistsmarket.com.

nyc schooL Dress

coDe upDAte

An inclusive new dress code is in the works for NYC public schools. New York City Council passed a bill last month requiring the Department of Education to post dress code policies on their website and to make public any reports on dress code violations or penalties that occur in schools. These bills aim to promote inclusivity in city schools, despite students’ race, gender, or sexual orientation. Many NYC parents and students have spoken out about the insensitivity of existing policies and how they can be limiting and potentially offensive. Council Member Althea Stevens states, “It is vital for young people to shape the changes they want to see in their schools. I am committed to ensuring our city takes strides towards inclusivity, allowing the space for students to express themselves through their clothing.” Be sure to follow along with the DOE website, schools.nyc.gov, for more updates.

By aLE xa LuttER

s .i. Zoo shoWcAses Art From ps 25

The Staten Island Zoo received a one-of-akind banner, lovingly hand-painted and gifted by students from PS 25 South Richmond High School Seaview Academy. Each student creatively captured a different animal on the banner, aiming to spark enthusiasm for wildlife conservation and care. The students,

along with their teacher Noreen Cameron, eagerly gathered to reveal their stunning artwork last month when the piece was unveiled at the Zoo. The students not only showed off their artistic abilities but their love and concern for wildlife as well. Head to The Staten Island Zoo (614 Broadway) to see it!

port richmonD DeLi oWner heLps stuDent FinD AcADemic success

A truly heartwarming story of community emerged last month when Wail Alselwi, manager of Zack’s Finest Deli & Grocery in Port Richmond, developed a reward system with a young student to encourage him to get good grades. Zameir Davis, an I.S. 51 student, would come into the deli frequently to show Alselwi his grades and report cards. Wail Alselwi encouraged this young student throughout the school year to keep pushing and working hard by creating a reward system. The reward system created entailed that Zameir could pick anything he wanted from the deli if he made the honor roll.

After months of hard work and support, Zameir made the Honor Roll, ending the year off with an impressive 90 average. The journey was captured on Wail Alswlwi’s TikTok and became viral. After accomplishing this, the student celebrated with several bags of Doritos Spicy Sweet Chili Chips. Borough President Vito Fossella acknowledged the duo, stating “Sometimes

kids, like everybody, are encouraged to do things because of different incentives, and everybody needs the right incentives to grow. This young man was at school and maybe not doing as well as he thought he could. So, this man right here said he was going to give him an incentive to make the Honor Roll at I.S. 51. He had no obligation, he had no reason, he had no point to help this young man, but he chose to, and that’s the beauty of this story.” Congratulations Zameir!

A Warning Label for Social Media?

BY SHARON FEIEREISEN

It doesn’t matter how old our children are, we are all worried about how social media is impacting their lives now and in the future. Heck, even those without children are worried about how social media is impacting their mental state.

This topic is all the more top-of-mind as of late with the much buzzed about book The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt and related initiatives like #phonefreefriday.

ing to add a warning label on highlights the need for parents to be vigilant

Recently, United States Surgeon General Vivek Murthy announced he is looking to add a warning label on social media in the same way it does with cigarettes and alcohol. “This initiative highlights the need for parents to be vigilant and proactive in managing their children’s social media habits,” says Yaron Litwin, Digital Safety Expert and Chief Marketing Officer at Canopy.

In fact, in his op-ed Murthy referenced a number of studies including a 2019 American Medical Association study published in JAMA that showed teens who spend three hours a day on social media double their risk of depression – surveys have shown that teens spend nearly five hours a day on social media apps.

“He’s looking to add a warning onto social media because though it seems like social media has been around for a long time it’s rather new and we’re raising children in an unprecedented time of having full access to social media platforms since birth,” says Olivia Dreizen Howell, a social media expert, certified life and success coach and CEO and founder of Fresh Starts Expert Community. “What has been reported is that having access to social media at an early age is detrimental to mental health and we need to take a hard look at the goal of social media and the long term impact it will have on the future generations.”

Howell goes on to note that while there is positivity that can result from being active on social media, children are not born knowing how to maneuver and manage themselves on these platforms, so we need to carefully assess how to handle raising children in the world of social media as a constant.

It’s Not One-Dimensional

A lot of parents feel that protecting their children from social media is black or white, but that really isn’t the case. There can be a nuanced and thoughtful approach.

“I really think the most important thing Murthy wants parents to know is that we can approach social media and our children with a researched, well-balanced and gentle approach,” says Howell. “Social media can play a very important role for many children – especially children who find it hard to communicate person-to-person or children who are lacking support in their everyday lives.”

However, she goes on to note that we can’t stand idly and watch our children navigate the murky waters of social media alone. “I very much appreciate that his call to action was a community call to action – we have to look at this as a mental health crisis for all children – and work together, so that parents don’t feel the guilt that they are ‘ruining’ their children by not letting them participate in social media.”

A Warning Label To Social Media Proposal is Long Overdue

While the proposal might appear overdue given the widespread use of social media, it’s still a crucial step in the right direction ac-

cording to Litwin. “Addressing the issue now can help mitigate further harm and foster a healthier digital environment for future generations. Implementing warning labels and other regulatory measures can still significantly impact awareness and behavior.” Nonetheless he underlines that the effectiveness of warning labels will depend on their implementation and integration into a broader strategy.

“Warning labels alone may not suffice, but as part of a comprehensive approach— including education, parental controls and mental health support—they can contribute to healthier social media habits and reduce the risks associated with excessive use.”

What are some things parents can do today?

Parents can take immediate steps to protect their children. Litwin suggests the following:

• Set and enforce limits on daily social media usage.

• Discuss the potential mental health risks associated with excessive social media use.

• Encourage and facilitate offline activities that promote well-being.

• Utilizing parental control tools to monitor and manage social media use.

• Model healthy digital habits for your children.

Pick-Your-Own Farms

By Alex A lutter

When you think of farms, you probably used to think of the song Old McDonald; with red barns, milking cows, and chickens laying eggs. But they are a lot more than that! In the past decade or so, farm visits have become a very popular outdoor family excursion for a lot of reasons. Not only do farm trips teach us about agriculture and where our food comes from, but they get our families off their devices and out of the house and take us into a different scenery. Additionally, farms allow fun and interactive experiences, like picking your own produce. As an added bonus, they provide the perfect backdrop for a family photo.

We’ve listed some great reasons to choose this popular seasonal activity with your family below, along with tips and helpful information you will need to prepare for your next trip to the farm!

Note: Sometimes Mother Nature has different plans than we do. Make sure to confirm the farm’s hours, prices, and availability before heading out.

Why Pick Your Own Farms?

Sensational Scenery : The scenery at these farms and fields is absolutely breathtaking, serving as amazing photo ops for the whole family that are Instagram and holiday-cardworthy all year round. So make sure your phone is fully charged and in the right mode for all the beautiful photos you are going to take. Snap away and capture those memories!

Health Benefits : There is nothing like smelling fresh lavender, biting into a crisp strawberry, or plucking the perfect apple off a tree. Picking your own produce has both mental and physical health benefits. Getting outdoors has been proven to boost your vitamin D levels and reduce feelings of stress. Visiting these fields and farms gives you and your family the ability to stimulate all five senses. Plus, having fresh produce in the house promotes healthy eating. It could make even your picky eater try something new!

Whether you are buying produce or not, the environment lends itself to a new kind of outdoor experience, so breathe in the fresh

air and enjoy your surroundings! Most farms provide rich knowledge about agriculture, as it is both interesting and beneficial to know where your food is coming from.

Environmental Benefits of Pick Your Own Farms : Visiting farms is a great way to support small businesses and local farmers, which in turn helps stimulate the local economy. This support promotes sustainability and ecological preservation. Further support the environment by carpooling to farms with friends to reduce fossil fuels!

Taste the Difference : Let’s be real, at the end of the day one of the best benefits of picking your own produce is stocking your fridge and pantry with all the yummy fresh fruits and veggies! Once you bring all the produce home, the possibilities are endless. You can create your own jams, jellies, pies, and more. Check out recipes to make after pumpkin picking and apple picking.

Not the recipe cooking type? No worries! Most of these farms feature a market where you can purchase seasonal farm fresh fruits and vegetables grown onsite. They carry high-quality homemade ciders, coffees, teas, maple syrups, honey, jams, yogurts, cheeses,

etc. The options are endless! Find a farm with a bakery and you hit the jackpot! If you never had a hot, fresh apple cider donut you have no idea what you are missing! Stock up on your favorite pies to share with your families, a very popular option when it comes to holiday time. No one can resist a fresh farm pie!

Ultimate Guide to Pick-Your-Own Fruits, Flowers and More!

Strawberries

There is nothing like a fresh, sweet and slightly tangy strawberry. Children love strawberries in their natural form, but the possibilities for family-friendly recipes are endless. Some favorites include strawberry jams, yogurt, and pancakes. Parents looking for a real treat? Homemade strawberry daiquiris make the perfect summer cocktail. Cheers! When to go? Strawberry season is typically late in May and early June.

How much? Prices range from $5.50 to $8.00 per pound.

Picking tips : When picking the perfect strawberries, look for vibrant red and fully shaped strawberries. Strawberries do not ripen after being picked so you want to grab the ripest

ones right away. When picking your strawberries, grip the stem above the strawberry, twist, and pull. Be careful when storing strawberries in containers to not overcrowd the container, for that may cause strawberries to bruise or become mushy. When you go home, refrain from washing the strawberries until you are ready to use them; washing immediately increases the chances of spoiling faster.

Peaches

A little peachy attitude goes a long way for this sweet summer fruit. Peaches hold a bright and sweet flavor with notes of tartness. They have been called a superfood and contain excellent sources of vitamins A and C. They are versatile; keep it simple with sliced peaches and creams or whip up a decadent peach cobbler.

When to go? Peach-picking season is typically late July through September.

How much? Peaches are approximately $3.00 per pound.

Picking tips : When it comes to picking the perfect peach there are many things to keep an eye out for. First, you want to examine the peaches’ skin. If there is any green on the skin, the peach is not ready to be picked. Use your sense of smell! Ripe and ready peaches will give off a sweet aroma, when there is no aroma the peach needs more time to ripen. Finally, make sure the fruit is not too firm and easy to retrieve from the tree. When bringing peaches home, store them in the refrigerator to slow down the process of ripening. For long-term storage, you can freeze them in an airtight plastic bag.

Sunflowers

Did you know you can pick your own sunflowers? Sunflowers are commonly associated with summer. They add a pop of color to any space, whether it is your backyard, kitchen, or living room. Sunflowers can be put on display, used for crafts, composting, and more. Sunflower fields open the door for some seriously Instagram-worthy pictures. There are usually a plethora of fun activities for families, such as mazes and bouquet making. When to go? : Sunflower picking season is typically mid-summer.

How much? Sunflowers cost approximately $2.00 a flower.

Picking Tips : Some sunflower farms or fields let you pick your own sunflowers while others sell them. You are usually allowed to enter the fields for photos either way, but check the farm’s policy first.

Apples

Nothing says fall like a nice crisp apple

In Season: Peaches

DuBois Farms Pick-Your-Own

209 Perkinsville Rd, Highland, NY

Lawrence Farms Orchards

306 Frozen Ridge Rd, Newburgh, NY

Fishkill Farms

9 Fishkill Farm Rd, Hopewell Jct, NY

Lewin Farms

812 Sound Ave, Calverton, NY

Ochs Orchard

4 Ochs Lane, Warwick, N

Alstede Farms

1 Alstede Farms Ln, Chester, NJ

Von Thun’s Country Farm Market

505 Ridge Rd, Monmouth Junction, NJ

438 Route 57 West, Washington, NJ

Demarest Farms

244 Werimus Rd, Hillsdale, NJ

Eastmont Orchards

321 County Rd 537 E, Colts Neck, NJ

Battleview Orchards

91 Wemrock Rd, Freehold, NJ

plucked straight from a tree. Apples are one of the most diverse fruits and are used in so many different delicious ways. Cider, pie, tarts, juice, and more are all amazing options – not to mention biting into one the old-fashioned way. There are tons of apple varieties, so choose a farm that is growing your favorite kind. Or try them all!

When to go? : Apple season normally begins in late August and lasts until around mid to late October.

How much? : Prices for apples vary by variety and typically are sold by the pound.

Picking tips : There are many things to look out for when choosing your choice of apples. You want to ensure the apples you pick are free from any blemishes or bruises. Apples should be firm to the touch and not mushy. Another helpful tip is to look for apples with stems intact, as the stem keeps the apple good for longer. Be mindful when you pick the apple to keep the stem intact.

Pumpkins

Pumpkin picking is a fall staple and perhaps the most popular fall outdoor activity for families. Carving pumpkins is a treasured tradition for many families after everyone chooses their perfect pumpkin. Kids love the joy of picking their own pumpkin to turn into a unique jackolantern and displaying it proudly outside during Halloween. Grab a few

extra pumpkins to create some delicious recipes such as pumpkin pie, bread, muffins and more. Pumpkins are a very healthy food that provides calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Don’t forget to roast the seeds!

When to go? Pumpkin-picking picking season typically begins in September and ends on Halloween.

How much? Pumpkin prices vary greatly depending on size, but they average around $5.50 each.

Picking tips: Color is everything when it comes to the perfect pumpkin. You want to pick a pumpkin that is a gorgeous orange color with no blemishes or bruising. If you are looking for a pumpkin to carve, you want to look for one that will have enough room for your design and a smooth outer shell. When bringing home your pumpkin you definitely want to clean it. Pumpkins can be prone to bacteria, which could result in decaying.

Christmas Trees

Did you know you can pick your very own Christmas tree? Christmas tree farms allow you to observe these gorgeous trees in their natural habitat and take them to your home to decorate. Picking your own tree creates a special memory within the family for the holidays. Not to mention, having a real Christmas tree will hit you with joy the second you open your front door, thanks to their unmistakable aroma. Most Christmas tree farms also sell wreaths, garlands and more. And as an added treat for the kids…lots of tree farms offer a visit and photo opportunity with Santa! So grab a hot chocolate or cider and enjoy this holiday tradition, sure to get your family right into the Christmas spirit!

When to go? Christmas Tree farms usually open around late November through December

How much? The average price of a Christmas tree is about $85.

Picking Tips : Bundle up! It will most likely be very chilly and you want your family to be as comfy as possible. Always feel free to ask questions to farm workers in order to find your perfect tree. Your tree should be a healthy green color and the size of your liking. Christmas trees can be quite large so measure ahead of time and make sure you have the space in your vehicle to transport it home. Additionally, look for branches with space to hold all of your decorations and ornaments; flimsy branches will result in falling “needles.” When home, you will need fresh water to keep your tree well hydrated. The amount of water you will need depends on the size of your tree and trunk.

Exploring NY School Options

Advice for finding the perfect educational fit for your child

By BarBara russo

It may be Back to School time, but choosing a school to send your child to can happen any time throughout the school year. Whether your child is moving on from daycare, elementary, middle school, or simply a better educational fit is needed, searching for one can be a complicated decision. We all worry about whether we’re making the best choices in raising our kids, and one thing most of us fret over is whether our children are getting the best education that suits their needs. In many areas in the country, traditional district public schools may be the best option for kids. But living in the New York metro area, we have an abundance of choices in addition to great public schools, including charter, independent and magnet schools.

While one school option doesn’t necessarily provide a better education than another, each type has pros and cons for every individual family. It’s up to you to determine which school setting best suits your child’s needs. What are the differences between independent, charter, and magnet schools, and which one is best for your child? Read on to learn more about charter, independent and magnet schools.

Catholic Schools

NYC Catholic Schools prioritize both academic excellence and Catholic values. Students are immersed in an environment that promotes respect, courtesy, and service to others, which are integral to their curriculum. These schools offer a comprehensive range of subjects, including Math, Religion, English Language Arts, History, and Science. Moreover, they have embraced modern technology in the classrooms and introduced STEM programs to foster a well-rounded education.

Recent New York State Education

Department Examination results confirm that Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of New York have once again outperformed both New York State and New York City schools regarding performance growth.

Charter Schools

The most important thing to understand about a charter school is that it’s a public school – but with fewer regulations. Charter schools are tuition free and receive money from local, state and federal funds.

“Charter schools do not have the same oversight as public schools, but they do need to be funded at least partially by a public government. They can also seek funding elsewhere,” Mary Miele, CEO, Evolved

Education Company, explained. “Charter schools can set their own curriculum, but they will be evaluated based on testing, which the public school also gives (the NYS exams in grades 3-8) and so the curriculum does involve a good amount of prep for those exams.”

According to the New York State Education Department, a significant difference between charter schools and traditional public schools is that charter schools often focus on innovative curricula, new approaches to school organization or instruction, or another feature that traditional public schools wouldn’t be able to accomplish without the flexibility given by a charter.

But charter schools need to produce

strong NYS test results in order to continue their funding, so many are more traditional in their teaching approach and teach toward those tests, Miele said.

Parents can learn more about charter schools, what a charter is and other information at nysed.gov.

Independent Schools

Also known as private schools, independent schools are primarily funded by tuition and charitable donations as opposed to taxpayer dollars.

“Typically, independent schools do quite a bit of fundraising, and parents may be tasked with organizing some of it,” Christine Hernandez, early childhood and parenting expert, and founder of Allo Saratoga in New York State, said.

And, their curriculum is not reviewed by a public entity, Miele explained.

The admission process for private schools can vary, but it generally includes:

• Filling out an application

• Visiting the school and doing both student and parent interviews

• Taking an entrance exam, if applicable

• Sending in teacher recommendations and transcripts

• Writing parent and student essays, and submitting videos of the student (for the K process)

Magnet Schools

Magnet schools are NYC Department of Education (DOE) schools. They are tuitionfree schools, in part federally funded by competitive Magnet Schools Assistance Program grant awards from the U.S. Department of Education. Magnet schools offer whole-school specialized thematic programs (theme examples include art, architecture, engineering, civics, leadership, exploration, global conservation, STEM/ STEAM) which incorporate innovative curriculum and enrichment experiences designed to engage and inspire learning.

Magnet schools utilize diversified approaches to teaching which include inquiry and project-based learning with real world connections and authentic application of skills. Partnerships with colleges, universi-

ties, professional and community organizations, cultural institutions and Artists in Residency programs, provide professional development opportunities and supplement student and family experiences. The rigorous instructional foundation is supported and enhanced by instructional technology, dedicated spaces for arts and science such as maker-spaces, horticultural labs, broadcast studios, STEM/STEAM activities, and special programs.

There is an application process for magnet schools, but there is no screening or testing involved in applying. For more information, families should contact info@ magnetschools.nyc or visit magnetschools. nyc.

Explore more

Back to School is in the air, but remember that this is also prime time to plan for your child’s next step in their education. Most schools are starting their tours and open houses now since enrollment periods often open up just after Labor Day, so check out your options and start marking your calendar!

Providing Safe, Positive Experiences

Through The Game Of Soccer

Skills, Character, And Confidence While Having Fun

b ig b ird’s playhouse 1859 Richmond Ave.

718-982-0550

bigbirdsplayhouse.com info@bigbirdsplayhouse.com

Since 1991, Big Bird’s Playhouse in Staten Island has provided a secure, nurturing environment where children feel loved and respected. Focusing on learning through play, stories, arts, and crafts, the warm staff cater to each child’s needs. Serving children from 3 months to 12 years old, they offer free PreK 3 and PreK 4 programs. With extended hours from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, they accommodate busy parents’ schedules.

h igh h opes childcare and preschool 1298 Woodrow Road 718-317-8143 facebook.com/

HighHopesChildCare admin@highhopeschildcare. com

High Hopes Childcare has offered quality childcare in a safe and loving environment since 1996. They are DOH licensed and have been collaborating with the DOE since the inception of UPK in 1996. The school offers programs for infants through age 5 and is open Monday-Friday, 7am4:30pm.

m ost terrific child Day c are 555 Tompkins Ave. 718-273-0334

mtcdaycare@yahoo.com mtcdaycare.com

At the Most Terrific Child Center, they believe that children learn best through exploration and hands-on experiences. They acquire the ability to relate to the world around them through active engagement with their environment. There is a balance between indoor and outdoor time, active and quiet activities, and individual and group routines. Each child is treated with love and respect. They believe expressing oneself is a key value for all children.

staten i sland Academy 715 Todt Hill Road 718-303-7803

statenislandacademy.org

At Staten Island Academy, students from PreK through Grade 12 become an integral member of an inclusive community, which celebrates students of different talents, backgrounds and interests. For 140 years, the Academy has been home to bright, empathetic, and responsible students who are ambitious and curious learners, athletically and artistically expressive, and committed community members. The Academy provides learning experiences which develop depth of character and foster lasting confidence.

Not Just a Picky Eater

Could your child have the eating disorder ARFID?

By Kaitlyn RiggiO

Let’s face it: almost every kid goes through a phase of being a picky eater, where getting them to eat something other than their favorite crackers and chicken nuggets can be a real struggle.

But what if you’re suspecting it’s more than just a phase? Or if it’s starting to impact them outside of meal time? Maybe it’s stopping them from going to birthday parties or playdates, or it’s causing massive arguments in your house at dinnertime.

Having a child who is a picky eater is developmentally expected, but when your kid’s eating habits are highly restrictive and start to impact other parts of their life, they might have Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, or ARFID.

We sat down with some experts to talk about what parents need to know about ARFID and how it might be treated.

What distinguishes ARFID from a picky eater?

Dr. Sarah Parker, director and co-founder of the Reeds Center, describes ARFID as a condition where “a person has an extremely limited range of foods that they can tolerate or eat” to the point that they’re “experiencing a good deal of suffering or some level of impairment, like it’s getting in the way of important activities.”

This impact on important activities is what distinguishes ARFID from picky eating. A child with ARFID might fall off their growth curve or suffer from nutritional deficits, for example.

The impacts of ARFID expand beyond physical health.

“We’re seeing a lot of psychosocial functioning impairments,” says Amanda Smith, director of ARFID programming at Monte Nido Walden. “Like, they’re not going to sleepovers, they can’t do class parties, they can’t do doughnuts with parents at school.”

What causes ARFID?

There are three different ways that ARFID typically presents itself that causes restric-

tions on food intake.

Sensory Difficulties : When ARFID presents through sensory difficulties, the taste, texture or smell of some foods can elicit strong feelings of disgust.

“There’s a heightened sensitivity, which leads to a very selective approach to which are acceptable,” says Melissa Gerson, founder and director of Columbus Park.

Fear of Adverse Consequences : As opposed to a sensory difficulty, ARFID stemming from a fear of adverse consequences is more of an anxiety or fear process.

“So many people with ARFID have anxiety about how food is going to affect them,” Parker says. “Or there’s going to be some kind of negative outcome if they eat a particular food.”

These fears related to food can be varied.

“They can be afraid that if they eat, they might choke on the food, or that it might make them sick or vomit,” Gerson says. “That can come on suddenly, or it can kind of build up over time.”

Lack of Interest : People with this type of presentation demonstrate a lack of interest in food and eating.

“It’s a chore,” Smith says. “Too much thought has to go into it, and they would just rather not.”

What’s also worth noting is that regardless of how ARFID presents, it’s not triggered by or related to body image or weight. While ARFID is classified as an eating disorder, this is what distinguishes it from eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia.

When Should Parents Look Into Seeking an ARFID Diagnosis For

Their Kid? What Does Treatment for ARFID Look Like?

Parents know their kids best, and the experts we spoke to said to reach out to their pediatrician if they notice their children’s restrictive eating habits are impacting things like their weight or ability to get important nutrients.

Another reason to seek out a diagnosis is noticeable interference with social functioning.

“If your kid has a hard time going to camp, or going to school, or eating with friends,” Gerson says. “That’s impacting their social life and their social connections, so that would be a really good reason to begin to explore.”

Conflicts within the family surrounding food are another thing to look out for.

“If a kid is refusing to eat food and it’s turning into an emotional issue in the family, it seems like that’s a useful time to kind of make an appointment with a pediatrician to find out more about what’s happening,” Parker says.

When it comes to treatment for ARFID, Smith says it typically involves a “multidisciplinary approach to try and really tailor to an adolescent or child’s needs.” From there, treatment might include weight restoration, if it’s needed, and then working to break through blocks eating certain foods before trying to expose the child to new foods and work on building their variety.

Treatment will also vary based on how the child is presenting ARFID. For example, exposure work might be prioritized if a child’s food avoidance is being driven by fear, while a child with sensory issues might be introduced to smaller changes to increase their tolerance and variety of foods they can eat.

Dr. Lisa Lazzara Dr. Kathryn Pallonetti

Idelchik

Dr. Sarah Salama

s ten isLAnD’s

10 BesT After-school Programs & Activities

It’s no secret that education is a vital part of any child’s development; that’s why school is a requirement. But what about the experiences and lessons they learn when school is out? Academics are important, but enrichment comes in many forms. A child is often likely to discover hidden talents or new interests through afterschool activities, so it’s highly recommended that parents enroll their kids in a multitude of extracurricular programs like dance, music, theater, sports, etc. to see where they will shine! With back to school right around the corner, now is the time to decide which programs best suit your child. Here in New York, the options seem endless, so we narrowed it down with these top afterschool programs in Staten Island. Each is expertly crafted by top-tier professionals, ensuring that every child reaches their full potential while having fun at the same time. Check them out below!

Art Lab

1000 Richmond Terrace

718-447-8667

artlabsi.com

Art Lab is a nonprofit art school located at Snug Harbor Cultural Center offering art classes during the winter, spring, summer, and fall seasons. Classes are available for children, teens, and adults, starting at age 3. Afterschool art classes are instructed by professional teaching artists in the tradition of creative art making in a studio environment and regularly meet once or twice a week for 10 or 8 weeks each semester, depending on the class. In a typical after school art class children make art in various media such as drawing, painting, collaging, and sculpting. Projects include cultural and artist inspired lessons. Creative exploration is encouraged. Wearing a smock or old clothing is recommended. Materials are included with no cost of class.

British Swim School

718-576-1870

britishswimschool.com/statenisland

British Swim School is the premier learn-to-swim provider for people of all ages offering programs for children ages 3-months through adults. They use gentle teaching methods and a survivalfirst approach to help people become safer, stronger swimmers. British Swim School’s safe and fun instructional program has made it the preferred choice for parents and students for over 40 years. They have two locations on Staten Island: at the LA Fitness Forest Ave in the North Shore and LA Fitness Richmond Ave in the South. There are lesson options available seven days a week, with classes as early as 2:45pm during the school week. You can enroll at any time and start the following day.

Dance Factory

505 Sharrotts Rd. 917-525-9277, info@dancefactorynyc.com

DFGNYC.com

At Dance Factory, their mission is to inspire a lasting love and appreciation for dance through artistic excellence, exhilarating performances, innovative choreography, and superb technique-based educational programs in a family friendly atmosphere. Owned by sisters Nicole D’Agostino and Michelle Caputo, both graduates of LaGuardia High School of Performing Arts, Nicole went on to receive her BFA in Dance from NYU while Michelle became a Knicks City Dancer. Knowledgeable and professionally trained, they are eager to share their talents with their community, and strive to bring forth nothing but the best Staten Island has to offer. Whether recreational or competitive dancing, Dance Factory is a home away from home for their dancers, and welcomes all who are committed to excellence.

DEA Music & Art

1409 Richmond Ave. 1481 Hylan Blvd. 57 Page Ave. 718-370-7733

DEAMusicandart.com

Experience unparalleled learning at DEA Music and Art School, where students of all ages gain exceptional skills and create lifelong memories. This vibrant community explores diverse programs in music, visual arts, and performing arts, all taught by professionals. DEA students have graced prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall. In 2024, the showcase choir will once again open the Rockettes’ Christmas show. There are numerous performing opportunities for every age and skill level, as well as affordable programs for all families.

FasTracKids

1409 Richmond Ave., Willowbrook 1461 Hylan Blvd., Grasmere 347-983-2229

ftkny.com

FasTracKids has been offering award winning enrichment programs on Staten Island for the past 20 years, ranging from preschool to homeschooling help, tutoring and test prep, utilizing the world class Eye Level Individualized learning and mastery program. Also offering chess and STEAM classes as well as NYS math and ELA, TACHS and SHSAT help. FTK believes that every child has their own special gift or talent, and with the proper instruction and reinforcement, every child can achieve their true gifted potential. FTK provides fun, interactive learning programs while infusing a love of learning in children through preschool, elementary school and all the way up to middle school. The Staten Island center is the top franchise in the United States and its teachers and administration have been recognized worldwide as being leaders in supplemental education for children.

Fenix Studios

4442 Arthur Kill Rd. 718-227-2345

fenixstudios.com

Celebrating 25 years, Fenix Studios, alongside Fenix Fitness, has a wide assortment of classes for students of all ages and walks of life. Fenix Studios offers lessons and instruction in musical instrumentation, singing, art, film, recording, songwriting, artist development, and more! In their fitness facility, Fenix Fitness, there is personal one-onone and group training, self defense and martial arts classes, as well as nutritional support. Joining the Fenix community will help you build friendships and meet the most creative part of yourself.

JCC of Staten Island

1466 Manor Road

718-475-5200

SIJCC.org

At the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island, kids enjoy their favorite activities after school. Aspiring athletes at all skill levels can stay active while developing a healthy mentality towards success in the JCC’s basketball, soccer, tennis, volleyball, and aquatics programs. Kids can express themselves and explore their creative sides in music, art, dance, and drama classes. In the JCC’s iTeens program, teens have fun in a safe environment and work on community service projects together. School’s Out programs bring kids of all ages together for special activities outside of the classroom. The JCC also offers afterschool programs for kids and teens with special needs, as well as inclusion opportunities for those who would benefit from them. Afterschool programs like those available at the JCC empower kids to learn and grow together in a supportive community.

Music and Method

15 Athena Place

917-715-6865, edmund@musicandmethod.com musicandmethod.com

Music And Method was founded in 2002 and focuses to make music education fun and engaging for beginner students across Staten Island. Its holistic approach covers technique, music theory, sightreading, repertoire, and performance, fostering creativity, organization, and confidence. Today, Music And Method continues to be dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians through offerings of private lessons and group classes that inspire peer learning and collaboration. Students excel in piano, guitar, violin, and voice, and engage the community through regular performances. Join the growing number of musicians on Staten Island who are building a sound foundation with Music And Method.

Soccer Shots

718-344-3915, Statenisland@soccershots.com statenisland.soccershots.com

Soccer Shots offers three core programs to meet the developmental needs of children ages 2 to 8, and they offer much more than just learning to play soccer. Soccer Shots aims to build character, skills and confidence while also having a whole lot of fun. They’re trusted by parents for their commitment to providing safe, engaging and positive experiences through the game of soccer. Each of their three core programs teaches the right skills at the right age so parents can explore their programs to find the perfect fit. Join the best coaches in the business on Soccer Island for age-appropriate soccer skills, character-building and fun.

Victory Gymnastics

3575 Victory Blvd.

718-983-9090

victorygymnasticscenter.com

Victory Gymnastics Center is proud to be Staten Island’s longestrunning gymnastics facility. After opening their doors in 1980, they have had the pleasure of providing families of all ages with gymnastics, tumbling, parent and child programs, birthday parties, and competitive team programs. The increased strength, flexibility and coordination athletes gain from gymnastics will carry over to their performance in various other sports. One of their primary goals has always been to help increase the self-esteem of the children who participate in their programs. This positive atmosphere gives children the confidence to participate successfully in school and athletics alike.

Inside the High Life of Breastfeeding

By Drew IsserlIs-Kramer

Motherhood is hard. Marijuana can help. Long lauded for its medicinal properties, the mind-altering chemical Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) contained in the flowering bud of the Cannabis Sativa plant produces mental health benefits. Whether smoked in a bong or digested from a friendly gummy bear, marijuana can temporarily reduce symptoms of anxiety and make even the most aggressive tantrum seem kind of funny. As more states legalize marijuana and THC becomes more available in friendly, edible forms, more parents are using it to numb the anxiety that comes with raising children. For the one in seven women who develop Postpartum Depression, THC can be a tempting solution. However, unlike alcohol, which is undetectable in breast milk 2-3 hours per drink after it is consumed, recent research on THC in human milk following cannabis use revealed that traces of THC remain in breast milk even 12 hours from consumption with no clear peak point.

In May, Washington State University led research published in the Journal of Breastfeeding Medicine, where they observed 20 breastfeeding participants who frequently used cannabis, defined as more than 1 time per week. The women were less than 6 months postpartum, feeding their infants breast milk five or more times per day, and were not using any other illicit drugs. Participants shared a baseline milk sample after 12 or more hours from abstaining from cannabis and five milk samples at set intervals over 8-12 hours after initial cannabis use.

The goal of the study was to understand the life cycle of THC concentrations in human milk, as well as to identify possible associations between the THC concentrations and body mass index (BMI), rate of postpartum weight loss, time postpartum, and the frequency, amount and type of cannabis used. After processing the data, the overarching headline reads: It Depends.

Due to the study’s small sample size and the observational nature of its methodology, researchers cannot point definitively to individual factors that contribute to variation in the peak of THC concentration in milk after cannabis use. However, some insights surfaced.

Peak Concentration is Variable

Among participants who used cannabis more

times during the 8-12-hour study period, THC concentration was unsurprisingly greater. For those who only used cannabis once during the study period, THC concentration in milk peaked at variable times. Some peaked after 30 minutes, but most peaked 2 hours after use. More frequent users had greater THC concentrations in milk after abstaining for 12 hours. The results indicate that infants of breastfeeding mothers who use cannabis will consume some measurable amount of THC from breast milk, even after abstaining for 12 hours.

Is Fat a Cannabinoid Repository?

TBD

As it relates to BMI and postpartum weight loss, interest in this variable surfaced because THC, the dominant psychoactive component of cannabis, is lipophilic, able to dissolve or absorb lipids AKA fats. The study hypothesized that lipid-rich human milk and mammary tissue may be cannabinoid repositories. Although findings on this theory were not statistically significant, the report did acknowledge that rapid weight loss in the postpartum period trended with lower baselines of THC concentration in milk. More research must be conducted to understand the role of mammary tissue in milk concentrations.

Infant Impact and THC: Still Unknown

While concentrations of THC exist in breast milk after 12 hours, the amount of THC detected in milk was low overall. Researchers estimated that infants received an average of 0.07 mg of THC per day. For comparison, a common low-dose edible contains 2 mg of THC. Is .07mg of THC going to harm a developing newborn? We don’t know yet. Current guidance for medical practitioners is to discourage cannabis use during lactation, given the absence of sufficient research.

Final

Thoughts

If you are a postpartum woman struggling with depression and anxiety, marijuana can certainly help take the edge off. However, we still don’t know enough about the impact of THC on newborns to give the green light to breastfeeding mothers struggling to cope with the life-altering experience of pregnancy, birth, and parenthood. Before you puff and pass, talk with your doctor about more researched solutions. Antidepressant medications are available to mothers struggling with PPD, which studies show can be used while breastfeeding with little risk to the baby. Give yourself permission to prioritize your mental health. A healthy, mentally balanced mother is best.

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Tips for Parenting When You're Sick

By K aitLyn RiGG io

Let’s face it: sick days happen. Even with continual handwashing, cleaning and hand sanitizing practices, it’s virtually impossible to avoid getting sick once in a while. And when you can’t take a sick day from being a parent like you can take a sick day off of work. Family life continues while you’re trying to get better.

When you’re a parent, getting sick can throw a serious monkey wrench into your daily family routines. On top of focusing on feeling better, you’re also thinking about how to keep the household up and running while you’re out of commission.

We sat down with Dr. Julia Samton, psychiatrist from The Midtown Practice, about how parents can stay on top of parenting while sick or under the weather.

k now your rights

New York State has laws in place securing your right to sick leave from work. If you’re a working parent, knowing your employer’s sick leave policy can help you on the path towards resting and feeling better.

“Recognizing and knowing what your rights are is important,” Samton says.

plan Ahead

It’s not really possible to predict when you’ll

get sick, but it’s bound to happen at one point or another.

Get ahead of the game by making a plan for what day to day life looks like when you or your partner get sick.

“It’s worthwhile to have a discussion, either with your partner or somebody that you’re co-parenting with, about a plan for what to do when you’re sick,” Samton says.

This plan won’t look the same for every family, but having an idea of what to do when sickness strikes can ease a lot of stress when it inevitably happens.

c all in reinforcements

Parenting is never a one-man show, but that’s especially true when you’re sick. While putting together your sick day plan, brainstorm with your partner who you could call if you need extra support.

“I think you want to have a short list of people who can be on call, whether that’s friends, family members or babysitters,” Samton says. “Have a list of not just one or two, but five or six people.”

If you’re not located near family or you run out of support on your list, look into options like an emergency nanny (often offered through nanny agencies), after school programs or community programs.

Bringing in a friend or an emergency nanny might be a good choice, especially if

you or your partner work remotely.

“If you have someone new watching your kids or helping you out, you will be at home,” Samton says. “So even though you can’t be doing as much because you’re I’ll, you’ll be at home to supervise.”

recognize your Limitations

Even with the best plans, not everything is going to go perfectly on a sick day. Between the changes in routine and not feeling at the top of your game physically, things are bound to go wrong at one spot or another.

Knowing and accepting that things won’t be perfect on a sick day is half the battle.

“It’s important to recognize your limitations, because we all have limitations, and accept the fact that not everything has to be perfect and things aren’t going to be able to get done in the same manner when you’re not feeling physically well,” Samton says.

This might be hard to handle, but things going awry when you’re sick doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent. And accepting this will make focusing taking care of yourself on a sick day much easier.

“We just have to really work on accepting and recognizing our limitations and realize that that’s not a statement on who we are as a parent or as people,” Samton says. “The quicker you accept your own humanity, the better.”

The Big Takeaways from Inside Out 2

The hit animated film offers lessons for kids and parents

By Thalia Fernandez

Almost a decade ago, on June 15th, 2015, Inside Out made its mark in cinema and has since become one of Pixar’s universally beloved childhood gems. The film’s themes of navigating change and understanding emotions resonated universally with viewers and families, making it a relatable experience for moms, dads, and kids. It had just about anyone who watched shedding a couple of tears in theaters. So, the expectations for Inside Out 2 were high.

While sequels rarely do better than the original, Inside Out 2 did not disappoint. In this sequel, we see Pixar take something as universal and complex as puberty and break it down in such an excellent way that allows parents and children to walk away feeling seen, have space to create open dialogues about complex emotions, and, overall, leave families feeling comforted and with a sense of relief when navigating this period of life that comes in hard and fast for all families.

This movie has many gems and key takeaways for parents and children, making it a must-watch. Educational professional Tyreca Elliott, Manager of KinderCare’s Inclusion Services team, agreed and kindly shared her insights on the film. She also gives us some excellent strategies for navigating complex emotions at home and in the classroom. But before diving into everything, I have to leave a spoiler warning; it’s just good movie etiquette, so if you haven’t watched and are planning to, save this and return to it later. Alright, you’ve been warned.

Inside Out 2 and The Complexity of Puberty

It’s now 2024, and we’re meeting up with Riley and her emotions again. While things have finally settled in San Francisco, Riley is now thirteen and is thrown into puberty overnight. While joy, sadness, fear, anger, and disgust clock out for the night and peacefully slumber, an alarm goes off on the control panel, and it’s officially demo day; puberty comes in like a wrecking ball and changes everything.

Riley wakes up from her sleep, and as the emotions try to start working on the

panel, the slightest touch creates a heightened sense of emotion, which we see when she’s speaking to her mom. Anger touches the panel, and Riley responds with heightened anger. We also get a glimpse of mom’s inner dialogue when her emotions think, “We just got a glimpse of the next ten years,” while commenting on Riley’s smell. It perfectly depicts our feelings and how we grow through puberty.

Parents and children can watch and relate to this moment because puberty comes without warning and settles in pretty intensely, and this is all perfectly normal, according to Lisa Damour, an American clinical psychologist and author who worked alongside Pixar to help develop this sequel by sharing her expertise on the reality of puberty in adolescents.

Damour helped develop the new emotions in this film because puberty brings a much more complex set of emotions. This time around, we’re meeting envy, embarrassment, ennui, and anxiety. There’s nostalgia, too, but we won’t see that feeling for a few more years.

As the new emotions settle in and Riley begins to navigate puberty, she gets hit with the news that any thirteen-year-old would find devastating: Her friends will not be attending the same high school as she is. The news sends just about every emotion into shock, and we begin to see anxiety slowly come in and take over, wanting to protect Riley from the potential loneliness of trying to figure out life at a new school without her friends.

When Anxiety Takes Over

The movie dives into what life is like when anxiety takes over and what that can look like for teens and, honestly, anyone who watches. Riley’s anxiety is a perfect depiction of what happens when we experience anxiety. It hits every key point of how anxiety works in our minds. Anxiety thinks of every possible scenario of how things can go wrong to try and prevent them from happening, pushes Riley to try and be the best so that she won’t have to feel alone, and eventually leaves her with this overwhelming feeling that not even anxiety, the emotion in the movie,

saw coming: Riley feels like she’s not good enough.

The sense of not feeling good enough, coupled with Riley’s isolation from her friends, lack of sleep, and overall loss of her sense of self, leads her to have a panic attack. This moment, in particular, stands out as a critical moment that is significant for families to watch. It illustrates what a panic attack can feel like and why it may come on, and it is a great way to open up a dialogue with kids on how to handle these moments that are more common than people think.

In the film, Riley settles down by doing some key things: slowing down, focusing on her breathing, and touching her seat. All forms of grounding techniques that can help during a panic attack. While the film does a great job of introducing us to complex emotions, we aren’t given much information on strategies for managing these emotions in the real world. Here’s where our expert from KinderCare Inclusion Services comes in.

KinderCare is dedicated to providing the best early education for children, offering expert care and proven programs in safe, reliable centers. We had the pleasure of asking Tyreca Elliott, Manager of KinderCare’s Inclusion Services team, parent, and former KinderCare Learning Center classroom teacher, some questions about anxiety and how Inside Out 2 approaches this universal feeling and experience.

Expert Advice on How to Approach Anxiety

What key takeaways should parents and children consider after watching Inside Out 2? Inside Out 2 allows families to talk about the variety of emotions we all feel every day. Parents can use the movie as the jumping off point for conversations with their children about how they’re feeling by asking questions like “Have you ever felt like that before?” or “Remember when Riley felt like (emotion)? I feel that way too sometimes, what about you?” It’s a great opportunity to help kids identify and name their emotions, normalize sharing how they are feeling, and learn tools to manage feelings as they come up.

How can Inside Out 2 be used to teach emotional intelligence and mental health?

Parents can use Riley’s experiences to show their kids that it’s OK to feel different

emotions and that they can express those emotions in healthy ways. They can also learn to recognize other people’s emotions and learn to empathize when others are feeling similar emotions. Providing that kind of support and using encouraging dialogue will help teach kids emotional intelligence and give them a solid foundation for managing their mental health.

What are some common signs of anxiety in children and adolescents that you’ve seen first-hand?

Experiencing some anxiety is a normal part of child development. Anxiety can show up in different behaviors among young children, depending on their age, like being restless and having trouble sleeping, consistent worry or fear, or sudden big emotions like anger or crying. When kids are experiencing anxiety, it’s important to be present with them, help them express their feelings, name the emotions they’re experiencing, and show them ways to cope,

like taking deep breaths.

How does anxiety affect a child’s performance in school and social interactions?

Anxiety can often impact sleep schedules and lead to children feeling tired and unable to concentrate at school. Kids may shy away from their friends or social interactions to avoid anxious feelings. While anxiety can impact kids in different ways, ultimately, it can make it harder for them to engage in classroom experiences with their peers or engage in new experiences.

Can you share any strategies for managing anxiety and any other complex emotions at home and in the classroom?

It’s important to teach and practice coping strategies when the child is calm. Once families or teachers begin to notice a change in the child’s mood or if there are things that typically cause anxiety or big emotions, adults can then reference the tools the child has already learned. By helping the

child identify when they begin to feel those particular emotions, the child will learn to ask for help from an adult and then begin to regulate their emotions on their own.

For example, when kids are feeling overwhelmed, parents can take the time to acknowledge and validate their children’s feelings, hear their point of view, and offer them the support they need. Every child is different – some kids need hugs, while others need to talk about it or just have a caring adult be present with them as they work through it. Some children may need to express their emotions through big-body play or have a fidget or comfort object to squeeze or cuddle while they regulate.

Inside Out 2 has become a box office hit and might be an essential watch for families with teens learning to navigate a new world of emotions. It’s a great watch for all ages, and we definitely recommend heading out to the movies and watching this summer’s must-see animated film.

Lisa Marie riLey of @OneFunnyLisaMarie on Healing, Humor, Food and Family

By Jeannine Cintron

Iwas sitting in my living room with my parents when I started writing this article. Like a lot of native New York “Boomers,” they now live in a condo in Florida for 11 months of the year. They were both in a funky mood, probably because visiting me reminds them of all the amazing food they gave up to move down south, so I decided to just get some work done. I started my “research” – listening intently to Lisa Marie Riley’s reels on Instagram – when I realized my parents were listening too, and howling with laughter. With every new video I put on, they laughed harder. Like a lot of the people who come to see her stand-up comedy shows on tour, her thick New York accent and sarcastic wit had them feeling right at home.

Lisa Marie Riley, a.k.a. @onefunnylisamarie on TikTok and Instagram, lives in Staten Island with her 7-year-old son. She was born and raised in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, which becomes immediately apparent once you hear that signature Italian-American inflection. For fellow New York natives like myself, her content is relatable and hilarious. But those who aren’t from around here find her just as amusing!

If you ask Lisa Marie whether she’s a comedian, she will say no. She doesn’t write jokes; she doesn’t perfect her set, she usually doesn’t even know what’s about to come out of her mouth before she picks up the phone to film her often-viral videos. After almost 20 years as a court stenographer, a job which she very much enjoyed, she never expected her career – or her life – to take the turn that it did.

After learning that her husband was extremely ill in 2019, Lisa Marie began posting funny videos to social media as a way of coping with the stress, a creative outlet meant mostly for the eyes of close family and friends. But her uproarious musings ended up catching the eye of many, many more. She now has almost 250k followers on instagram and nearly half a million

followers on TikTok.

Sadly, Lisa Marie’s husband passed two years ago, leaving her to raise their young son alone.

Initially, I thought we would discuss how humor has helped heal her grief. I imagined her story might inspire others facing such a devastating loss (and I’m sure it has). But there’s a good reason funny people don’t like to be too serious, and Lisa Marie is no exception.

As we talked and as I continued watching (okay, binging) her videos, I realized that for Lisa Marie, healing doesn’t actually require a sense of humor at all. For someone who is hilarious when they aren’t even trying to be, the funny just comes naturally. It’s as much a part of life as breathing. For Lisa Marie, healing comes from family, friends and even food (she’s Italian after all!).

Her family - notably her mother and sister - is featured heavily in her videos. They are often cooking; she says that in her family, they “live to eat, not eat to live.” I suspect that whoever makes the honey chicken on Sundays at Bruzzese’s Salumeria in Staten Island and New Jersey has helped her more than any therapist ever could (#iykyk). She's even toying with the idea of writing a cookbook next.

I sat down for a chat with Lisa Marie (as she was getting her gorgeous glossy locks done to discuss parenthood, family, her new career and growing up in Brooklyn.

Tell me about starting @OneFunnyLisaMarie and how it has affected your life.

I started in 2019, right before covid and I wasn’t thinking about anything coming from it. I just did it to laugh and joke around with family. I wanted to forget about what was going on in real life for like five or ten minutes a day. I needed a healthy vice. I needed a place where I could go to forget about my reality. Everybody on there, for a minute or two, escapes from their reality to laugh and joke. I mean, your problems are still there

by

Photo

Michelle Rose Photo

“I wanted to forget about what was going on in real life for like five or ten minutes a day. I needed a healthy vice.”

but you are able to escape for a little bit. So it became a healthy vice for me. And then it became a thing.

Back then, my page was about my husband, being a wife and parenting, but then when he passed I had to switch it. So now I talk about my sister, hanging out, getting my hair done or just whatever I think of at the moment.

Social media gave me a new lease on life. It gave me a different career. It led my life in a different direction that I never knew I was going in. And this is life. Life is life. Things happen, but you keep going. I don’t want to be all depressing. I want to give people hope that there’s new life. Life goes on. You got to just go with it.

I’m grateful for this different life. It’s a wonderful thing. I enjoy it, and I love it. It’s a wonderful thing to work and get paid doing what you love. This is all new to me, but it's a beautiful thing when you could just fall into the right job, the right thing, something that’s perfect for you. I’m lucky for that.

You seem so close with your family. Have they been a major source of strength for you?

Yes, they are great. We are a very, very close family. But my source of strength and reason I keep going is my son. My son is everything; he is my whole life.

Does your son think you’re funny?

No, there’s nothing about me he finds funny at all!

Do you joke around a lot together though?

I play with him a lot but I’m very strict with a lot of things. I don’t let it be where we are like friends. So we joke around and we laugh, but serious is serious, and things have to be done. I parent him different. One Funny Lisa Marie is somebody that I am, and it became who I am, but we’re not a constant house of goofing around all day long. Behavior, respect, things like that are very important to me.

Sometimes in my posts I’ll talk about camp or school or stuff like that, but I don’t want to make a mockery out of that stuff. I don’t want to be one of those people that makes everything a joke. I talk about the projects, I talk about crazy hat day, stuff like that. But to me, school is important, so I don’t want to mock it.

And I don’t want his life to be all about the fact that his mother’s comedian on social media. I want to be his mother, and his mother works and she does what she does, and that’s it.

Is he ever in your videos?

No, there’s no reason for it because people are cruel and people are nosy. Social media is the devil’s playground. When you’re putting kids on there, you’re opening them up to “here he is!” Why do they need to see him? I don’t feel there’s a need for anybody to see

him. I’m very overprotective. You hear so many stories. I don’t want him to even have social media, because to me, there’s no reason for him to.

Go back in the day to when I was a kid. This would have been unheard of, doing something like social media and letting people know your life, your comings and goings. You know, it’s a new world. It’s really a new world.

Do you feel like the persona that you portray online is different from your real life persona?

Well, that’s how I really am. But I know when to be serious and when to conduct being One Funny Lisa Marie. It became a job for me. But the reality of it is, I’m not like that all the time.

How do you come up with ideas for your videos?

I just pick up the phone and talk about whatever. I don’t think about anything that I do. Nothing’s prepared. My phone isn’t set up, I don’t have any of the gadgets. I just pick up the phone and I talk. It’s like, just what’s happening.

Wow! That’s impressive. What about when you do your stand up comedy shows?

I wing it. I have no set. I don’t have anything. I just go off and I talk. I kind of just talk about whatever comes to me at that moment.

I’m not a professional comedian. I’ve become one because of social media. They said they were going to pay me, so I became one. Literally, somebody called me ten times to do a show. I said, What are you talking about? I’m not a comedian. On the tenth phone call they said ‘you know we’re gonna pay you, right?’ So I said, Well then I guess I’m a comedian.

What do you love most about living in New York? Growing up in Brooklyn. I absolutely loved everything about my Brooklyn childhood, and I miss it a lot.

What are some of the things that you enjoy doing with your son?

We don’t need to do much. We hang out. He’s a play-outside kind of kid. We play outside all day long. Just regular, normal stuff. We’re not jet setting and spending thousands of dollars a week. That’s not what I am. That’s not what we do. I don’t keep up with the Joneses. I do what I can do, and that’s it. We spend a lot of time with friends and my sister lives down the block. My mother lives downstairs, which means a lot of just sitting in the driveway all day long. Just like how I grew up.

Lisa Marie Riley may not consider herself a comedian, but we know otherwise. Get tickets for her ongoing standup comedy tour “I’m Done With It” at CoastalEntertainment. com/events and follow her on Instagram and TikTok at @ OneFunnyLisaMarie.

calendar

Movies Under the Stars:

Much Ado About Nothing

Friday, August 2, 8:30 pm – 11 pm

Faber Park

2175 Richmond Terrace

All ages

Free Experience The Public Theater’s Free Shakespeare in the Park production. Tony Award winner Kenny Leon directs a bold new take on Shakespeare’s cherished comedy of romantic retribution and miscommunication.

Pan Flute

Friday, August 2, 2-3 pm

Huguenot Park Library

830 Huguenot Avenue

Inspired by the Harlem music scene, children will discuss the various contributions of musicians and their instruments. Children will create their own pan flute and understand the range of sound waves.

Summer of Science: Just Add Water!

Saturday, August 3, 11 am – 12:30 pm

Greenbelt Nature Center

700 Rockland Ave.

Ages 6-12

Free

Join in a splashing good time at the Greenbelt Nature Center as we celebrate summer with a series of water and liquid-based experiments, demonstrations, and STEAM activities that families can do together

Kidz Cook: Spring Rolls

Saturday, August 3, 12:30 pm –4:15 pm

Staten Island Children’s Museum

1000 Richmond Terr.

Ages 5-8

Free with $8 Museum Admission

t hin GS to do in au G u S t

Spring Rolls ShopRite Kidz Cook is a caregiver-and-me program that introduces children to a diversity of foods, explains cooking concepts, and helps build dexterity with cooking utensils. Young cooks will be practicing their cooking skills to make a new and fun dish every class

Butterfly Feeding

Saturdays and Sundays: 1:30 pm, Saturdays and Sundays: 2:30 pm, through Aug. 11

Tenafly Nature Center

313 Hudson Ave, Tenafly, NJ 07670

All ages $8; $5 members; $25 family rate for members for up to 6 people

Families with children 4 and up can enjoy this limited chance to feed butterflies at TNC! Spend time in the Butterfly House enjoying up-close opportunities with these winged jewels in a

small group setting. After feeding the butterflies, spend time creating your own seed ball to help pollinators near you.

Magical Matt Magic Show

Sunday, August 4, 3:30 pm – 4:15 pm

Staten Island Children’s Museum

1000 Richmond Terr.

Ages 4-10

Free with $8 Museum Admission Magical Matt will create smiles and laughter for the entire family with this 40-minute magic show, appropriate for ages 4-10. Using his magical talents, slapstick comedy, and zany humor, Magical Matt will have the entire audience cracking up as he performs his award-winning magic show.

Tot Time Tuesdays Tuesdays, 10am – 11:30 am

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve

2351 Veterans Rd. West

Ages 4 and under Free

Enjoy exploring nature topics during this toddler program through crafts and activities. There is a story time at 10:30 am, followed by a short, approximately 15-minute, guided hike at 11 am.

Boogie Woogie

Wednesdays

Wednesdays, 3:30 pm

Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terr. Ages 5 and up

Free with $8 Museum Admission Put on your dancing shoes! The Staten Island Children’s Museum is showcasing different dancing styles every Wednesday throughout the summer. Kids will learn Irish Step, Mexican dance, Hip-hop and more.

Finding Faces and Animals in Abstract Art

Saturday, August 10, 1 pm – 3 pm Faber Park 2175 Richmond Terrace

All ages Free

Find fun creatures and faces in a mixed media art abstract pareidolia class with artist Mona Oman. Pareidolia is the phenomenon of finding faces, animals, or objects on random images

Taste of the Towns

Restaurant Crawl 2024 Sunday, August 11, 1 pm – 5 pm

All Ages

$30

Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy tastings from participating restaurants located in the towns of Annadale, Eltingville,

discover Big top s cience at the staten island children's museum on august 18.

and Great Kills and have access to a private trolley which will pick up and drop off patrons at central locations in each town.

Family Yoga: Breathe, Meditate, Stretch

Sunday, August 11, 4 – 4:45 pm

Staten Island Children’s Museum

1000 Richmond Terr.

All Ages

Free with $8 Museum Admission

Discover a harmonious adventure for the whole family in a 45-minute family yoga session! Immerse yourselves in a playful blend of stretching, mindfulness, and laughter, fostering wellness and bonding.

Young Naturalists

Wednesday August 14th and 28th, 10 am –12 pm

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve 2351 Veterans Rd. West

Ages 6-12

Free

The perfect free biweekly program for kids to become scientists this summer! Each session will examine a different aspect of nature. August 14th: Peculiar Plants, August 28th: Intriguing Insects!

Teen Meditation Beach Jars

Thursday, August 15, 1 pm – 3 pm

West Brighton Library

976 Castleton Ave.

Free

Create sensory jars with a beachy theme! Bring the beach to you!

Music & Movement:

Elephant World Day J@ mboree

Friday, August 16, 10:30 am – 11 am

Huguenot Park Library

830 Huguenot Avenue

Ages 0-4

Free

The Huguenot Park Library presents Elephant World Day J@mboree! The J@mporee is jam-packed with music, dance, and parachute games. This music & movement program helps children develop team-building skills, build language skills, and enhance social interactions.

Learn to Ride a Bike Clinic at Ocean Breeze

Saturday, August 17, 10 am-12 pm

Ocean Breeze Track & Field Athletic Complex

625 Father Capodanno Blvd.

All ages

Free

Ditch those training wheels & learn to ride a bike here at Ocean Breeze. Instructors will guide you through the course-filled obstacles, twists, and turns! Fun for the whole family!

Big Top Science

Sunday, August 18, 3:30 pm – 4:15 pm

Staten Island Children’s Museum

1000 Richmond Terr.

All ages

Free with $8 Museum Admission Step into three rings of fun as the Museum presents a series of chemistry and physics demos that explain how a bed of nails can provide a great night’s sleep or how important balance can be to a tight ropewalker. You’ll be amazed as they hatch their supersecret “Snooberfish” eggs and take an amazing high dive that won’t make a splash!

Crazy Science: Liquid Nitrogen

Friday, August 23, 3 pm – 3:45 pm

Staten Island Children’s Museum

1000 Richmond Terr.

Ages 5 and up

Free with $8 Museum Admission

read to them by children. The dogs are well-trained, registered, and insured therapy dogs who love literature and will listen without judgment or comment. They hope to help children improve their reading ability, build confidence, and develop a life-long love of books. Visitors are welcome to bring their favorite reads!

Discovery Hike: Soil Testing

Saturday, August 24, 11 am –12:30 pm

Clove Lakes Park Forest Avenue, Victory Boulevard bet.

Be dazzled by mind-blowing scientific demonstrations introducing you to the incredible world of liquid nitrogen. You’ve seen its captivating powers in movies, and now you’ll have the chance to witness it firsthand as it transforms roses, balloons, and even popcorn right before your eyes.

8th Annual Veterans, Disabled Children and Active-Duty Fishing Day

Saturday, August 24, 9 am – 2 pm Lake Julianna

265 Disbrow Hill Road Millstone, NJ

All Ages Free

Veterans and families that have children who are disabled and other special needs are welcome to register for the 8th annual event. Attendees and their guests are invited to fish at Lake Julianna to catch and release big fish and then enjoy a BBQ that will provide soft drinks, pizza, hamburgers & hot dogs, and other goodies.

Practice Reading to a Pooch

Saturday, August 24, 11:30 am – 1 pm

Staten Island Children’s Museum

1000 Richmond Terr.

Ages 3-9

Free with $8 Museum Admission Therapy dogs from Luv on a Leash are eager to hear stories

All ages Free

Join the Urban Park Rangers as participants explore the contents of the ground beneath us. Participants will test soil from around the park, and identify what kind of plants and animals prefer certain types of soil.

Flow Jugglers

Thursday, August 29, 3 pm – 3:45 pm

Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terr.

All ages

Free with $8 Museum Admission This will be an evening of LED juggling and flow arts performance by Flow Juggle. This event promises a captivating display of skill and artistry with LED props that light up the night. After the show, there will be a fun spin jam where kids and families can try out the props and learn some basic techniques.

Summer Themed Cookie Artwork

Saturday, August 31, 11 am – 1 pm De Matti Park Tompkins Ave., bet. Chestnut St. and Shaughnessy La.

All ages

Free

Create beautiful and delicious cookie artwork! Participants will paint summer themes on cookies with edible dyes. Participants will be provided with large gluten-free/nut-free cookies.

taste of the towns restaurant crawl visits nnadale, eltingville, and Great kills on august 11.

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