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Amanda Frankel, D.D.S
The Special child
| tech
about Meta’s teen accounts
| Party time
best birthday party venues in Westchester
toy drives and donation opportunities
18 | h elping your Differently-abled child s ucceed in school
| choosing a b abysitter for a child with s pecial Needs
| s pecial Needs resource Directory
| c alendar
Giving Thanks by Giving Back
It’s hard to believe the holiday season is upon us already. While December will be one filled with endless to-do lists and last-minute shopping, this month is more like the calm before the end-of-year storm.
As we gear up for everyone’s favorite daylong food marathon known as Thanksgiving, we are reminded of the things we should be grateful for in our lives. One of the best ways to express gratitude is by helping others in need, and there is no better time than the holiday season for doing just that. We’re sharing Holiday Toy Drives and Donation Opportunities (page 12) so you can help brighten the holiday for families who are less fortunate.
I used to think November was early to start your holiday shopping, but these days I meet people who are done before the summer is over! While I will never be one of those people, I can start crossing people off my list early while supporting local businesses at a Holiday Fair or Market (page 10).
Planning holidays and birthdays at the same time is the definition of stressful. If your child has a birthday coming up, we’re sharing some of the best venues for hosting birthday parties in our area (page 26).
Our latest Special Needs Resource Guide is here (page 17), featuring tips for both at home and in the classroom, along with helpful directory listings.
Thankful for all of you!
Jeannine
Share your feedback and ideas about family life in New York!
Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily
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New
Meta’s Teen Accounts
Will the new rollout revolutionize online safety for kids?
BY THALIA FERNANDEZ
Last month, Meta launched Instagram Teen accounts, and we had the opportunity to speak with a member of the Meta team and get some insight into what these new accounts will bring to families. This latest rollout of teen accounts is the first of its kind and a new approach to the mounting concerns about the influence of social media on today’s teens. As teens are tackling loneliness and social media pressures, parents are left questioning how they can help, and Meta aims to provide that support. The question remains: will these accounts truly impact teen safety online?
Growing concerns about the impact of social media on children’s mental health have
prompted actions at both the state and federal levels. Last year, Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy stressed the need for parents to monitor their children’s social media habits. In June, New York Governor Kathy Hochul passed two bills to make social media safer for kids. The federal government is also working on the Kids Online Safety Act to address issues such as bullying and harmful content. Parents nationwide are worried about the lack of online safety measures for children on social media platforms and are calling for these platforms to do something about it.
Meta, among several social media platforms, has faced criticism for not having adequate systems in place for teens. However, they are now the first to roll out protections.
This approach could shift the social media landscape and begin to ensure children’s safety, but it’s honestly too soon to tell. However, what we do know is what these new accounts offer parents, how this all started, and everything you need to know about Teen Accounts.
We had the opportunity to speak with Liza Crenshaw, a member of the Meta team, to understand what these accounts provide to parents and Meta’s goals with Teen Accounts.
What are some standout features that parents should know about?
Teen Accounts were designed specifically with parents’ concerns in mind. We talked to so many parents around the world about what their worries were when it came to their teens using social media. We heard that they have three big concerns: one is contact, who their teens are talking to; two is content, are teens looking at content that is too mature or sensitive, and three is time, is [a] teens’ time being well spent on the app; are they scrolling for too long, using it overnight, or
during school.
With those three big concerns in mind, we designed Teen Accounts’ protections to adjust those things. We will be turning teens’ [accounts] into private accounts automatically. We’ll also be sending reminders when teens have been on the app for 60 minutes. We’re turning on a feature called sleep mode, which mutes notifications overnight and sends auto-replies in DMS. [For example], if someone messages them [the reply will] say, “[this person] is in sleep mode right now; they’ll get back to you in the morning.”
We’re taking steps to limit who can message teens. Teens will only be able to be messaged by people that they follow or who they’re already connected to. That really cuts down on strangers who might be messaging teens and adults who aren’t really appropriate for teens to talk to. We’re also turning on our hidden words feature, which limits bullying or offensive comments in DMS. It’s really a full suite of protections that are built in and automatically on with Teen Accounts.
Will these new features be easy to navigate for parents?
Yes, so again, we did design this with parents in mind. We wanted to make sure that parents didn’t feel like they had another burden being added to their plate but that they could really have the confidence to know that their teens are able to use Instagram safely from the get-go. The idea with teen accounts is that teens are automatically placed into age-appropriate protections, and parents don’t even have to do anything.
However, if teens under 16 want to change any of the protections, they do have to get a parent’s permission to do so. Parents can be reassured that their teens can’t escape these protections unless they give their permission. But we also know that some parents want to be more involved in their day-to-day teens’ online lives, so we added additional features that parents could choose to use, including messaging insights; parents can see who their teens have been chatting with in the past week. They can’t actually read their teen’s DMS, but they can see who they’ve been talking to and whether the teen has any shared connections with those people.
Which is actually one of my favorite features because I heard from a lot of parents who think this is great because they can see if [for example] someone they know has been
“Particularly for younger teens, they see this as an opportunity to build trust with their parent and figure out a way to navigate social media together versus just having the parent have complete oversight and control.”
bullying their child in school sends [their teen] a message, then that’s an opportunity for the parent to say “hey I saw that you were chatting to [this person], I know you guys have had conflicts, what’s going on there?”
But it still lets teens have their own freedom and autonomy to send messages without feeling like their parents are peeking over their shoulders.
Today, kids have Finstas or Fake Instagram accounts where they lie about their age. How will these accounts work around that?
So, from the get-go, we knew that Teen Accounts wouldn’t work unless we were preventing teens from lying or getting around this. So we built a ton of different ways to prevent from lying. For instance, if a teen tries to change their age from under eighteen to over eighteen, for example, if they say, “I don’t want to be in a teen account, I’m just going to say I’m 25”, we will require them to verify their age either with an ID or with a video selfie that estimates their age on the back end.
We’re also building out what we call an age prediction model that uses thousands and thousands of signals, including the type of language that teens use, who they’re talking to, and how old their friends are, to actually really accurately estimate how old a teenager is. If we see that there’s a mismatch between the age the teens told us they are and the age our model predicts them to be, then we’ll place that person into protections automatically out of an abundance of caution.
We think about it as a multilayered approach because it’s really challenging to get
age right, so we’re going at it from a bunch of different angles.
These accounts are currently only available in specific locations but are expected to be introduced globally in 2025. Should we expect to see additional features added to these supervised accounts?
We might. Right now, we’re just really focused on getting this out and right to the tens of millions of teens that will get these changes. It’s a really fundamental change to teens’ experience on Instagram, and we want to get this right first and foremost.
We expect there might be some bumps along the way, but we want to iterate and make sure that we get people into these protections, and then we’ll figure out what’s next.
We’re interested to know what the feedback from teens has been like. How do they feel about the integration of Teen Accounts?
It’s actually really interesting because we had a hypothesis internally that teens would hate this and not really want to be placed into these protections.
But actually, what we heard and what we’ve been hearing since the rollout is that teens themselves also don’t really want to get unwanted contact in their DMS; they really don’t want to see [certain] content. So they’ve actually welcomed the changes to an extent, and I think particularly for younger teens, they see this as an opportunity to build trust with their parent and figure out a way to navigate social media together versus just having the parent have complete oversight and control.
It’s really a way to start conversations. Younger teens, in particular, [feel] they can establish some trust with their parents, they can have some boundaries in place, and gradually maybe the parent might relax some things, and give them a bit more freedom.
We feel like this is an opportunity for parents and teens to start to establish a twoway conversation in a way that still feels safe and age-appropriate, and again lets teens use Instagram for all of the good things like discovering new artists they want to follow, connecting with classmates, talking to friends and family. I think sometimes, people forget all of the good things that come from social media, so our goal with this is to preserve the good and minimize the bad.
For more information on Instagram Teen Accounts, head to about.instagram.com.
Private Birthday Parties
• Bumper • Juniors • Disco INCLUDES:
• 1 hour & 30 minutes of bowling
Each gets a choice of hot dog, pizza or chicken nuggets with french fries & soda
TOTAL PARTY TIME:
• 2 hours
Birthday Child Turning 5 & Up Only!
Private Birthday Parties
Gymnastics Classes
Birthday Child Turning 5 & Up Only!
Gymnastics Classes
Private Birthday Parties
Our goal is to build a physical and mental foundation for ALL sports and to promote athleticism and good health through participation in gymnastics.
GymCats Gymnastics & Birthday Party Center
One Odell Plaza, Yonkers (Exit 9 off Saw Mill River Pkwy)
Birthday Child Turning 5 & Up Only!
Gymnastics Classes
Our goal is to build a physical and mental foundation for ALL sports and to promote athleticism and good health through participation in gymnastics.
GymCats Gymnastics & Birthday Party Center
One Odell Plaza, Yonkers (Exit 9 off Saw Mill River Pkwy)
Our goal is to build a physical and mental foundation for ALL sports and to promote athleticism and good health through participation in gymnastics.
GymCats Gymnastics & Birthday Party Center
One Odell Plaza, Yonkers (Exit 9 off Saw Mill River Pkwy)
holiDay Shopping
The season’s best markets and craft fairs across Westchester
by westchester Family
We love this time of year! In between all of the fun holiday activities and events, you’re probably looking for gifts for the special people in your life. In Westchester, there are many holiday markets and craft fairs where you can find local and handmade items.
From vintage finds to handmade crafts to artisanal food, this list has you covered where to shop locally this holiday season.
New Rochelle Holiday Market
November 29th-December 22nd,various times
New Rochelle Train Station
1 Penn Central Railroad, New Rochelle
The 2024 New Rochelle Holiday Market, presented by the City of New Rochelle and the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, will take place at the New Rochelle Train Station from November 29 to December 22. The market will be open from 12:00pm-8:00pm on weekends and 4:00pm-8:00pm on weekdays, offering a festive winter village setting for all ages to enjoy and opportunities to shop from and support various local vendors.
Clay Holiday Market
November 14th-Saturday, December 23rd, various times
40 Beech Street, Port Chester
Find a beautiful handmade ceramic gift from the Clay Holiday Market. This includes ceramic gifts, ornaments, cultural items, and much more.
Pelham Art Center Holiday Boutique
December 12th, from 6:00pm-8:00pm Pelham Art Center, 155 Fifth Ave, Pelham
Support Westchester artists and shop at The Pelham Art Center Art Boutique Shop & Sip. Discover artisan items, handmade gifts, ceramics, wood, prints, jewelry, accessories and homewares.
Get your holiday shopping started at the St. Patrick’s School Holiday Craft Fair. Find various local vendors and shop a unique holiday gift. This includes local crafters, artisans, books, and more. Plus, enjoy breakfast and lunch.
Greenburgh Nature Center Holiday Market
November 16th & 17th from 10:00am-2:00pm Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale
This fun weekend market features live music, local artists, and local vendors selling environmentally-friendly gifts. There will also be homemade apple cider and hot chocolate.
Germania Christkindlmarkt
November 22nd from 4:00pm-9:00pm & November 23rd from 10:00am-6:00pm 37 Old DeGarmo Road, Poughkeepsie
Experience a traditional German Weihnachtsmarkt with German food, specialty treats, holiday shopping, holiday activities, and authentic holiday treats. Plus, enjoy access to a heated indoor area.
JLCW 38th Annual Holiday Boutique
November 23rd, from 10:00am-4:00pm Junior League of Central Westchester, Wayside Cottage 1039 Post Road, Scarsdale
Shop the Junior League of Central Westchester’s annual holiday boutique. The boutique features handcrafted gifts, jewelry, clothing, accessories, and items handmade by League members. Free admission.,
Holiday Market at Yellow Studio
November 24th, from 11:00am-4:00pm Yellow Studio, 792 NY-35 2nd Floor, Cross River
Visit Yellow Studio for a curated holiday market. Find unique and handcrafted gifts such as jewelry, candles, clothing, books, art, and more. Free and welcome to all.
Hudson Valley Art Marketplace
November 29th-December 1st from 10:00am3:00pm Locust Grove Estate, 2683 South Road, Poughkeepsie
Shop fine art, handmade, and small-batch products from the region in the 9th Annual Hudson Valley Artisan Marketplace.
The Holiday Boutique at Philipsburg Manor
Dates TBA
381 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow
Visit the Philipsburg Manor Visitor Center for their annual holiday boutique. Along with shopping, they have several holiday events throughout December. This includes a s’mores bar, hot cocoa and cider bar, hot cocoa under the stars, cake pop decorating, a holiday tea party, and more.
Small Market & Holiday Makers
Market
Nov 26th-27th Shop Small Market
Dec 21st-22nd Holiday Makers Market Central Avenue, Tarrytown, NY
Shop artisan-made goods at the Shop Small Market and Holiday Makers Market this holiday season. This includes various local makers, bakers, brewers, and more.
Holiday Market and Family Day
November 30th from 9:30am-2:30pm Muscoot Farm, 51 Route 100, Katonah Visit Muscoot Farm and shop locally at their annual Holiday Market.
Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow (TaSH)
Holiday Market
Saturday, December 7th, from 2:00pm-6:00pm Patriots Park, Tarrytown
Enjoy the TaSH Holiday Market with over 70 vendors. This includes holiday décor, gift, craft, and food vendors. Plus, enjoy the village of Tarrytown tree lighting.
Holiday Market and Tree Lighting
December 7th from 11:00am-7:00pm
The Barley Beach House 95 Dearborn Avenue, Rye
Celebrate the start of the holiday season with a Christmas tree lighting at the Barley Beach House. The event also includes Christmas carols, free hot chocolate, candy canes, a holiday market with over 40 local vendors, live music, and more.
2024 White Plains High School
Holiday Craft Fair
December 14th, from 10:00am-4:00pm White Plains High School, 550 North Street, White Plains
Attend the 32nd Annual Craft Fair in support of the White Plains High School
PTA. This craft fair features over 75 vendors who will be selling crafts, holiday gifts, jewelry, aromatherapy soaps and oils, artisanal food, and more. Free admission and free parking.
Tarrytown Holiday Market
December, Date TBA
Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main Street, Tarrytown, NY
Enjoy a curated shopping experience at the Tarrytown Music Hall. This includes products from local and regional artists and makers. Plus, enjoy festive drinks from their bar as you shop.
Katonah Elementary School Holiday Boutique
December 7th, from 11:00am- 3:00pm Katonah Elementary School 106 Huntville Rd, Katonah
Join Katonah Elementary School for their annual Winter Wonderland Boutique. The sale features more than 40 local vendors, kids’ activities, crafts, face painting, and food. Plus, enjoy music and performances.
Holiday Toy Drives
And other local donation opportunities
by westchester Family
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Celebrate the season of giving by donating gifts to Westchester children or families in need. Below, we are sharing more about the local holiday toy donations and give back opportunities in Westchester. Get your kids involved so you can truly celebrate what this season is really all about.
Have a Heart for the Holidays Drive Families can donate toys, games, and gift cards to under-served Westchester kids. Additionally, children age 9 and younger will receive a developmentally appropriate toy. Families with children ages 10-18 will receive a gift card. For more information about the WJCS Have a Heart for the Holidays Gift Drive, contact Jennifer Kaplan, Director of Development, at jkaplan1@wjcs.com; 914761-0600 extension 2227.
Child Care Council of Westchester: Annual Toy Drive
Join the Child Care Council of Westchester for their annual toy drive. They are accepting new, unwrapped toys for children 12 years and under from now until December 13th. Some gift suggestions include: Rattles/Baby Toys, Clothes/Bibs, Games, Books, Dolls, Winter Attire, Electronic Games, or you can order something from their Amazon wishlist. 313 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale, NY 10583.
43rd Annual Holiday Sharing Drive from The Junior League of Northern Westchester
Participate in the 43rd Annual Holiday Sharing Drive in support of nearly 100 families. The Junior League of Northern Westchester works with agencies to make the holiday season brighter for struggling families in our area. Recipients of the holiday gifts include single-parent families, senior citizens, homeless families, physically challenged individuals, families suffering deep financial duress, and those struggling with terminal illness. You can also sponsor a family or make a monetary donation. A receipt for tax purposes will be provided for all donations.
Donate
Clothing for Children and Teens with Sharing Shelf
Donate new or gently used clothing in all sizes year-round, from newborn through adult XXL to The Sharing Shelf. Donations must be in clean, wearable condition. Donors are required to schedule an appointment to drop off donations. The Sharing Shelf also encourages donors to visit their Target registry to order items that are regularly updated. Additionally, they have on-site recycling bins for stained and damaged clothing and partner with Helpsy to ensure that used clothing items do not end up in a landfill. The Sharing Shelf, 47 Purdy Avenue, Port Chester, NY, 10573.
Annual Holiday Toy Drive
Families can participate in Open Door’s Annual Holiday Toy Drive to provide gifts to underserved families. They plan to provide over 5,000 new and unwrapped toys and gift cards to local newborns and kids (up to age 14). Families can also participate by shopping virtually YouGiveGoods/Open Door Toy Drive or via their Holiday Toy Drive Amazon Wish List. For additional information on supporting the drive, contact donna.jaxheimer@yougivegoods.com. Additionally, you can participate by mailing a check payable to Open Door Foundation to Elisabeth Gilbert, Open Door Foundation, 165 Main Street, Ossining, NY 10562.
Westchester County Toys for Tots
Families can find a massive list of drop-
off locations where you can leave a present to a child in need. Click here for the list of locations in Westchester. Additionally, families can donate funds online in support of the Marine Toys for Tots program.
Feeding Westchester
Give back this holiday season with Feeding Westchester. Feeding Westchester aims to combat hunger and provide necessities to all members of the community. A donation of $500 can provide 1,500 meals to children and families in Westchester County. Every dollar donated can provide two meals, offering crucial assistance to all. During the holiday season, families can create Holiday Help from Home bags filled with side dish staples and dessert treats. Drop-offs will be accepted at one of Feeding Westchester’s distribution centers. Feeding Westchester also has several opportunities to help year-round. For more information, visit feedingwestchester.org.
Westchester Winter Wonderland
Westchester’s Winter Wonderland is a 1.2-mile drive-thru experience featuring thousands of lights and various attractions such as angels of peace, dancing trees, glowing snowballs, a candy cane lane, a 100-foot light tunnel, and a 40-foot Christmas tree. The event’s proceeds directly benefit WPF and support the preservation and conservation of the 18,000 acres of parks, trails, and open spaces within the Westchester County Parks system; for more information, visit www.theWPF.org.
New York’s sullivaN Catskills
At just 90 miles from NYC, New York’s Sullivan Catskills is holiday-ready.
Start your visit by fueling up with Catskill-icious goodness. Restaurant Week is on through November 11. It’s an opportunity to sample farm-fresh 3-course lunches and dinners from $29.95-$44.95 at Blue Fox Motel, Cellaio, Kenoza Hall, Lotus, Roscoe Mountain Club, Seminary Hill Orchard & Cidery, Tavern on Main, The Arnold House, The DeBruce, The Heron Restaurant, The Homestead Restaurant+Lounge, and Yagsur’s Café at the Museum at Bethel Woods.
As you wander the charming small towns, watch for the hand-painted sculptures on the Sullivan Catskills Dove Trail, a tribute to the Woodstock Music and Arts Festival held here in 1969. To help guide you to each dove location, download the trail map at SullivanCatskills.com.
If you’d rather someone else prepare your family’s Thanksgiving meal, consider spending Thanksgiving at Kenoza Hall, Villa Roma, Callicoon Hills, The Bradstan at The Eldred Preserve, Chatwal Lodge, North Branch Inn, The Arnold House, or Roscoe
Mountain Club. Then, see Peace, Love & Lights at Bethel Woods starting November 29. It’s a 1.7-mile drive-thru holiday light show running through December 29.
Better yet, come the weekend before and bring your family to The Farmhouse Project’s Holiday Maker’s Market on
November 23 and 24 in Callicoon. It’s a modern interpretation of the traditional craft fair with artisans throughout the region. To book your trip, visit SullivanCatskills.com. You’ll also want to download the Sullivan Catskills Go App, a valuable tool to guide you to the fun.
Get in the holiday spirit in New York’s Sullivan Catskills.
Start your adventure at Peace, Love & Lights — a Bethel Woods
drive-thru holiday light show through December 29. Kids love to walk with alpacas and pet our goats. And everyone loves a Catskill-icious hot cocoa or apple cider. Restaurant Week is October 28-November 10
RochesteR , NY: A WiNteR WoNdeRl ANd foR fAmilies
For NYC families seeking a memorable winter getaway, Rochester, NY offers a perfect blend of snowy adventures, cozy experiences, and indoor fun—just a few hours away. When the city is draped in a blanket of snow, Rochester transforms into an idyllic winter wonderland, providing the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle.
Embrace the Outdoors
Families can immerse themselves in winter magic at Mendon Ponds Park, offering ice skating, sledding, and guided snowshoeing tours through serene, snowcovered landscapes. For a thrilling day out, head to Bristol Mountain for skiing and snowboarding with runs suitable for every skill level, or experience the exhilarating snow tubing park.
Step Back in Time
At the Genesee Country Village & Museum, families can explore the largest living history museum in New York State, where the winter months bring historical holiday celebrations, horse-drawn wagon rides, and 19th-century
winter traditions. It’s an interactive way for kids to learn about history while enjoying a charming winter atmosphere.
Indoor Escapes from the Cold Rochester’s renowned Strong National Museum of Play and Rochester Museum & Science Center keep kids entertained for hours. The George Eastman Museum offers a cozy respite to explore photography’s rich history in the restored mansion of Kodak founder, George Eastman.
Seasonal Fun
With 140+ annual festivals and events in Rochester, NY there is always something fun and exciting taking place and winter is no different. Don’t miss Roc Holiday Village with complimentary ice skating, arts and crafts for kids, local boutiques and vendors, and more!
With its mix of outdoor adventure, rich history, and family-friendly festivities, Rochester, NY offers the perfect winter escape, ensuring unforgettable memories for families of all ages. Learn more at visitrochester.com.
Come soar. Come smile. Come see what all the excitement is about. Rochester, NY is the perfect family getaway for unique and extraordinary adventures.
Did we mention the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games? Pack your bags and hit the road for an unforgettable trip in a destination full of surprises. With fun for every family, every season of the year, playtime tends to last a little longer in our backyard. Learn more at visitrochester.com.
Winter escape in the Lake GeorGe area
If you’re looking for a winter escape, check out the Lake George Area in the Adirondacks. Featuring three premier ski resorts – Gore, West, and Hickory - ‘Ski the 3’ should be on your winter list of must-dos! Gore Mountain, the largest ski resort in New York State, has seven mountains with a total of 14 lifts, 108 trails, and a 2537’ vertical. West Mountain is family-owned and operated with 25 trails for skiing and boarding, as well as a tubing park. Hickory Ski Center offers a vintage ski experience with a vertical drop of 1,200 feet and challenging and expert-level trails.
The Lake George Area is a host to many winter events, festivals, and carnivals. Every weekend during February, the Lake George Carnival features a chili cook-off, outhouse races, an ATV poker run, and the famous Lake George Polar Plunge. Another annual carnival is held at Brant Lake, where broomball tournaments, human foosball competitions, and hockey shoot-offs take place.
Enjoy the annual Ice Bars in and around Lake George as sculpture-like ice creations accompany local events, like the Adirondack Pub & Brewery’s Funky Ice Fest. Attendees can
frequent hosted ice bar parties at venues like The Gem, the Lagoon, and the Sagamore. If watching sports is more your speed, enjoy puck-passing, net-catching hockey at the Cool Insuring Arena. The Eastern Conference Hockey League and affiliate of the NHL’s New Jersey Devils, Adirondack Thunder, takes the ice to deliver hard-hitting thrills every game. Dedicated to promoting “The Original
Vacation,” the goal of the Lake George Area is to promote travel and tourism to the over dozen towns and hamlets that make up Warren County, known as the “Southern Gateway to the Adirondacks.”
Learn more about Lake George at visitlakegeorge.com, on Facebook @ TheLakeGeorgeArea, or Instagram and TikTok @lakegeorgearea.
For generations, families and friends have been drawn to this place, where fresh air is scented by autumn in the woods and time seems to waver between nostalgia and now.
Helping Your DifferentlyAbled Child Succeed
BY JACQUELINE NEBER
Good parent-teacher communication is crucial for any successful school year, but being on the same page becomes even more important when your child has a learning disability. There are a few steps–from understanding your rights to communicating on a regular basis with your child’s teacher–that can help ensure your child has the best year possible, arming you and your child with the knowledge to succeed in and out of the classroom.
Know your rights and speak up. Parents are entitled to receive information about special education from their schools and teachers—reading up and staying informed is the best way to advocate for your kid.
When attending Committee for Special
Education meetings, annual review meetings, or parent-teacher conferences, if you don’t understand something, ask questions.
Communicate with teachers frequently.
Kathy Devine and Emily Cole co-teach at an elementary school in Long Island. They say parents of students with special needs must be extra communicative with teachers.
“We would like to know sooner when things might be happening at home, whether it’s medication changes or maybe something in the home life has changed,” Cole says.
When it comes to homework, “reach out to us as soon as possible so that we’re not waiting until the end of a trimester to know [kids are] struggling,” Devine says.
Another tip? Write a letter describing your child and his needs at the beginning of the year.
Understand Individualized Education Plan goals.
Equally important is understanding your child’s IEP goals—which can differ from her classroom goals.
This difference often confuses parents who see their student accomplishing goals on one end of the spectrum and not the other.
Involve your child.
Cassie Reilly, Transition Coordinator at a Long Island high school, suggests involving your kid in IEP and parent-teacher conferences. Being open with kids from the time of diagnosis helps them stand up for themselves and understand their learning disability does not make them inferior to others.
Be sensitive to difference.
Parents should understand their kids might be different at home than at school, Reilly adds. And, even more importantly, their kids might have an atypical path toward success. Communicating with teachers is key to understanding how your kid can progress in the best way.
How To Choose a Babysitter for a child with special needs
By Dana GreenBerG
My son has autism, so when I need to leave him with a babysitter, I am extremely picky about who that person is going to be. There are so many things that go through my head as a parent of a child with special needs. Who can I trust with him, especially since he has limited verbal skills? Will his babysitter understand his wants and needs? Will he be happy and engaged while I am gone? Over the years, I have come up with a system for choosing a babysitter that has worked well for us. This is how I do it.
Where to Find Babysitters
There are some very good places that you may not have thought of for finding sitters for kids with special needs.
I contact local special education schools and therapy centers, both of which are wonderful resources for this. Try calling them, and you will usually be put in touch with the right person to help you out, such as a social worker or psychologist. When you speak with that person, let them know exactly they type of person you are seeking as a babysitter. Let her know how old your child is and anything else you think may be important to share. You will find that many teachers, teaching assistants, and therapists are looking to earn extra money. The social worker or psychologist can circulate your contact information among the staff. One of the best reasons to get sitters from these places is that they are already fingerprinted and have had background checks done. Referrals from other parents with special needs children can also work as a great resource for finding people. I find that we parents are each other’s best sources of information. You can fully describe your child to other parent without feeling like you need to hold anything back. With that information, they will know if they have someone who would be a good fit.
Meet as Many Candidates as Possible
I like to meet as many potential sitters as I can. You may find that different people or personalities work better in different situations. I have some sitters that I prefer to use if they will be staying at home with my son and others that I prefer to use if they will be doing an outing with him. It is great to have choices, and not everyone may feel comfortable taking him out.
Another reason I like to meet a variety of people is more basic: We all need back-up. You just never know who will be free when you need someone. There have been times when I have gotten to my fourth call before getting a yes. I certainly was glad I had my list of trusted babysitters to call upon when that situation came up. The bigger the list you can compile, the better it will be in the long term. It is important to know that you have multiple great, trusted people to call upon.
Conducting an Initial Interview
After compiling my list of who I would like to meet, it is time to have initial interviews with them. The first time I meet a new person I prefer to do it alone, just me and them, without my son present. That’s because my son has very good receptive language and I do not like to talk about him in front of him. At these meetings, I like to tell the candidate all about
my son--his likes, his dislikes, his routines, what makes him happy, what bowl he likes for his snacks, that he likes ice cubes in his water, everything and anything that might be important to know while watching him.
I truly feel that I cannot give a sitter too much detailed information. I need to be his voice. We can also discuss how much I will pay. This is also the candidates’ opportunity to ask me anything that they want. Based on how this meeting goes, I will decide if I want to continue the process with each person I meet.
Check References
Now that I have done initial interviews, it is time to check references for those I am highly interested in hiring. It is a good idea to do this regardless of where someone’s full time job is. You may want to speak with someone else for whom they babysit (or babysat in the past) or maybe a supervisor or co-worker at their current job. Have your list of questions prepared before you make the calls.
You should feel free and comfortable to ask anything; after all, this is your child’s welfare we are talking about. Ask specific questions about the candidate’s interactions with children, how they’ve handled certain situations, and the like. I always like to ask about punctuality, too. This is the opportunity to get a feel for whether this person may be the right fit and if you want to
continue moving along with them.
Meeting My Child
Assuming the references check out, I next schedule a meeting between the potential new sitter and my child. The meeting takes place in my home. I will prepare my son the best I can, by telling him the person’s name and that they are coming over to see where he lives and what he likes to play with. Once they arrive I will make the introduction. I will show them around, pointing out where my son likes to hang out and where his favorite snacks are, for instance. I will go over how we do certain things, and our routines. I want all his babysitters to be comfortable handling anything that may arise while I am out.
This is another instance in which I have a list ready so I do not forget anything that may be important. Discussing all of these details in depth at this time will make it a lot easier the first time I go out and leave him with this person. I will not have to take the time then to go over everything from scratch, and instead we can just do a review.
This is also the chance to see how they
interact with him. I pay close attention and try to feel the vibe. Usually I can tell at this point if a particular candidate would be a good match for my son.
Joining Us for an Outing
For those sitters who might take my son out, I will invite them to go on an outing with us. This is where I will train them on how to be outside with him, which is a very different situation than just staying indoors. There is a lot to know: He likes to scare birds, he may not want to hold your hand, he will constantly ask you how many more blocks you’re going. How will the babysitter react to all of this--or whatever else may come up while outside? His safety must be the priority. This person will need to be on high alert the entire time. I need to feel 100% confident that this sitter is up to this task, and they need to be prepared for the unexpected with him. I will guide them through this outing and see how they feel, and again ask if they have any questions or concerns.
The Babysitter’s Commute
Where a sitter lives is important to me. Just
because you are identifying candidates via a school or center it does not necessarily mean that they live nearby. I need to know that all candidates can independently get to and from my apartment. I need to make sure they understand that they will need to leave enough time for the trip. If you have a younger child, you will not want to have to pack them up to pick up or take the sitter home, especially at night. I find that most sitters can come and go on their own, but this is something I like to confirm before hiring someone. It is always good to make sure you are on the same page about anything that you think is important.
This is my process, the steps I like to go through when choosing a sitter for my child who has special needs. Every question is important and no detail is too small to mention. Make your lists, and do whatever it takes to put your mind at ease. Who we leave our children with is one of the most important decisions we make as a parent. We need to feel comfortable and confident with our decisions so we can go out and have peace of mind.
As an independent day school for children with dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities, we believe difference is power. Through highly trained educators and evidence-based programs, we empower students in grades 1 through 9 with the skills and confidence to return to mainstream schools.
Committed to making a Windward education accessible for all, we award more than $9 million per year in tuition assistance.
Scan the QR code to learn more!
creative Wonders therapy center
470 Mamaroneck Ave., Suite 204, White Plains 101 South Bedford Rd. Suite 404, Mt. Kisco
914-421-8270 ext. 1 creativewonderstherapy.com
Creative Wonders is a pediatric therapy center in both White Plains and Mt. Kisco. Their speech clinic has speech therapists trained extensively in PROMPT as well as oral motor and feeding. Seasoned occupational and physical therapists trained in specialties including sensory integration and evaluations including SIPT. They offer toddler rooms as well as a sensory gym in a state-ofthe-art facility. They also provide OT and ST in the home and daycares/preschools throughout the county.
Davenport creative arts therapy
434 White Plains Road, Suite 2, Eastchester
914-606-2209
DavenportCreativeArtsTherapy.com
Davenport Creative Arts Therapy offers premiere mental health care for children, teens and young adults. Located in Eastchester and Manhattan, their Licensed and BoardCertified Art Therapists offer treatment for ASD, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem, behavioral issues, and parent support. Their holistic approach is rooted in Art Therapy, Mindfulness and Evidence-Based Cognitive Therapies. Convenient online teletherapy and in-person options available. They are LGBTQ+ affirmative and inclusive providers. Free consultations offered.
Eagle Hill School, located on 17 acres in the heart of Greenwich, Connecticut, provides a life-changing experience for children in grades 1-8 who learn differently. The school’s individualized academic program provides support for students with languagebased learning differences including dyslexia, dysgraphia, executive functioning disorder, ADHD, and above-average cognitive ability Students learn in a country day school environment with access to athletics and a range of extracurricular activities. A junior boarding program is also available.
family-run business that designs, manufactures and sells assistive technology for people living with disa bilities. Working with individuals, parents, teachers and therapists, we find—or invent—the devices, toys and tools that help build more joyful, fulfilling lives. From learning and play, to communication and independence, their products help make the impossible possible. Visit them on the web for switches, communicators, adapted toys and games, sensory products, mounts, electronics and more.
accredited special education program for students who have been unsuccessful in traditional school environments, and benefit from a highly structured and supportive setting. Therapeutic day and residential programs feature an enriched curriculum for individualized academic, behavioral and emotional support. An innovative approach integrates animalassisted activities and outdoor exploration into treatment and education plans, helping students connect with nature, discover their own special talents, and develop skills to grow into independent young adults.
littman k rooks, llP
800 Westchester Avenue, Rye Brook 914-684-2100
littmankrooks.com
Littman Krooks Special Needs Planning and Special Education Advocacy
Attorneys work for the empowerment of individuals with special needs. Planning for your child’s future can seem overwhelming but you do not need to face these tasks alone. Seeking the assistance of an attorney can be the best approach.
Psychology Partners Group
Chappaqua Location: 400 King Street, Suite 7, Chappaqua
White Plains Location: 199 Main Street, 4th Floor, White Plains 347-560-4628
Unlock your child’s potential with PPG’s expert services. They offer child therapy, psychoeducational assessments, ADHD and Autism screening, parenting-focused therapy, and educational planning services. At PPG, they believe that each child’s behavior reflects their unique
world. Their compassionate professionals help children develop adaptive skills for emotional coping and communication, transforming challenges into growth opportunities. Empower your child today—discover the path to greater ease and emotional resilience.
talk of the town s peech and l anguage therapy
39 Smith Ave, Mt Kisco 914-244-9600
Talkofthetownspeech.com
Discover Talk of the Town Speech and Language Therapy, personalized therapy and evaluations for children and young adults. They offer drop-in classes for Parents as Partners and Mommy and Me.Their dedicated team is committed to an individualized approach, working closely with families to create the most meaningful impact on their child’s development.
Westchester b rain core therapy and Wellness
604 Fifth Avenue, Pelham 914-738-4460
drwillmck.com
drwill@drwillmck.com
Dr. Will McKenna offers BrainCore Therapy for children and adults at his Pelham and Dutchess locations. BrainCore Therapy non-invasively alleviates symptoms associated with ADD/ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, Learning Disorders, Migraine and Tension-type Headaches, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Insomnia, Chronic Pain, and more. One main area of treatment involves children with ADHD. BrainCore Therapy encourages children to focus by watching videos of their choice for 30 minutes, without any drugs or side effects. Dr. Will says children love this therapy and parents love the 95% success rate and permanent results.
Westchester school
45 Park Avenue, Yonkers, NY
520 Route 22, North Salem NY
33 Seymour St., Yonkers NY (Pre-K)
914-376-4300
westchesterschool.org
The Westchester School is a New York State approved, non-public school that provides educational and therapeutic services to students from Long Island, New York City, the Hudson Valley, and Connecticut. With campuses in Yonkers and North Salem, NY the program provides services to over 300 students with the classifications of Autism, Intellectual Disability, Multiple Disabilities, Orthopedic Impairment, Other Health Impairment, Emotional Disability, and Preschool Student with a Disability.
the Windward school
1275 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains - Lower School
40 West Red Oak Lane, White Plains - Middle School 914-949-6968
212 E. 93rd St, NYC – Lower and Middle Schools 212-222-8628
thewindwardschool.org
A coeducational, independent day school located in NYC and White Plains for children in grades 1 through 9 with languagebased learning disabilities such as dyslexia. Committed to helping students achieve their full potential in order to successfully return to a mainstream educational environment, Windward remediates students’ skill deficits through a proven instructional program— combined with opportunities for social and emotional growth—to enable students to understand their learning differences, build confidence, and develop self-advocacy skills.
The Westchester School
NYS approved and funded non-public school providing therapeutic and educational services to students diagnosed with AU, MD, ID, OHI, OI, ED, & PWD, ages 3 - 21, with locations in Yonkers & North Salem
• • • C us tomized cla s sr o om ins tr uc tion ba sed on I E P goals, enhanced wit h S MA R T boards, I P ads, and compu ter s in ever y cla s sr o om
Ungraded, self-contained classrooms with a student to staff ratio of 12:1:4 & 8:1:2 in SchoolAged classrooms and a ratio of 10:1:2 in Preschool classrooms.
• C ounseling, B ehavior al S er vices, O ccupational T her apy, P hysical T her apy, a s well a s S peech and L anguage T her apy
• A s sis t ance wit h t r ansitioning to po s t academic life by pr oviding Vocational and J ob S k ill oppor t unities
• A daptive P hysical Education and a S ens or y R o om
Westchester’s
11 BeST Birthday Party Places
Planning a birthday party for your child can be equal parts exciting and overwhelming. With so many options available, choosing the perfect venue can make all the difference in creating a memorable celebration. From whimsical indoor play rooms to scenic outdoor spaces, the right location sets the stage for fun-filled activities and priceless moments with friends and family. We’re sharing some of the best kids’ birthday party venues in your area, highlighting unique features, capacity, and themes that cater to a variety of interests and age groups. Below you will find options that offer everything from interactive experiences to all-inclusive packages, ensuring you find the ideal spot that fits your budget and party size while giving your child an unforgettable birthday party they will treasure for years to come.
Central Park Dance
165-171 South Central Park Ave., Hartsdale 914-723-2940
centralparkdance.com
info@centralparkdance.com
For over four decades, Central Park Dance Studio has been hosting “the party of your dreams!” with super fun, creative and dazzling birthday parties for children ages 2 and up. They offer customized themes as well as Rock Star, Fairytale Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Theatre and Fun-n-Fit party games, all taught by CPD’s own reputable teachers. Their Ultimate Birthday Party Package includes pizza and beverages, paper supplies, decorations (streamers and balloons), studio and lounge space, 1-2 teachers (depending on party size), plus setup and cleanup. Their Premier Package includes everything except the pizza and beverages. They recently moved down the road to Hartsdale, in a brand new, state-of-the-art facility.
With kid-friendly menus, stellar Power Card deals to play tons of arcade games, and a one-of-a-kind experience, what’s not to love? Dave & Buster’s has everything you need for an unforgettable party. Birthday packages are available for groups of all sizes. Book online at your convenience, or work with one of D&B’s professional party planners to tailor your experience. Mention “Best Birthdays” to get an extra $20 in game play for the guest of honor when booking a kid’s birthday package at any one of their 10 area locations.
GymCats Gymnastics
At Equalize Fitness, 1 Odell Plaza, Yonkers 914-965-7676
gymcats.net/#Birthday_Parties
GymCats Gymnastics is famous for its private, fun-filled birthday parties for children turning five and up. The energetic staff and dazzling facility make every birthday party experience memorable. Children start the party with an exciting warm-up and move on to an obstacle course along the perimeter of the floor. After swinging, rolling, and jumping through the obstacle course, children move on to jumping on their in ground trampoline and climbing through their foam-filled pit. Then, they get to climb up and slide down their giant air-filled slide and jump around in an inflatable castle. After an hour of action-packed activities, guests spend 30 minutes in the party room.
Hapik Ridge Hill
51 Market St., Yonkers 315-690-3602
hapik.us
ridgehill@hapik.us
Do you have the kind of kid who always finds themselves tangled in tree branches?
Help them celebrate their birthday in style at Hapik Ridge Hill, Westchester County’s premiere fun climbing gym. The 10,000 square foot facility features over 50 climbing walls, with 150 unique routes, a massive vertical drop slide, and two exhilarating ropes courses that’ll ensure that your child, along with all of their friends, will have the time of their lives. During the two-hour party, children will have a 30 minute safety briefing, followed by an hour of climbing, and a half hour for pizza and cake. There’s no better way to kick off your kid’s next year than an exciting new challenge.
Homefield Bowl
938 Saw Mill River Rd., Yonkers 914-969-5592
homefieldbowl.com
Homefield Bowl is a full service bowling alley featuring open bowl, league bowl for juniors and adults, and mixed leagues. Homefield Bowl makes birthdays special for everyone (and easy on you)! It’s a fun and hassle-free way to celebrate birthdays or other special events. Everyone will have a ball and you won’t have to worry about a single detail. Birthday bowling parties are fun for children of all ages – even if bowling is a whole new experience for them. A party coordinator wil work with you throughout the party, and bumpers will be provided on every lane to ensure that every ball hits the pins. All party attendees will receive a free game of bowling. Kosher options are available.
Celebrate a special child’s birthday under the stars at the Hudson River Museum in a state-of-the-art Planetarium! Parties include a private party room in the Museum’s Education Center, a hands-on art activity, and a 30-minute custom planetarium show featuring the night sky on the birthday child’s date of birth. Parties are ideal for children ages 4–11 and available on Saturdays or Sundays, morning or afternoons and includes up to 30 guests (additional guests $15 each with a maximum of 50 guests total, including adults). Museum members receive a discount.
Immersive Gamebox
Palisades Center
4494 Palisades Center Dr., West Nyack 201-565-3172
immersivegamebox.com/en-US/kids-birthdays
Immersive Gamebox offers an interactive and unforgettable birthday party experience for all ages. With cutting-edge technology, guests can enjoy a variety of exciting games like Angry Birds, Shaun the Sheep, Squid Games, Ghostbusters, and The Floor is Lava, each filled with challenges and puzzles that encourage teamwork and fun. Private game rooms provide an exclusive atmosphere, ensuring your group enjoys the experience together. Customizable party packages include everything from dedicated event hosts to food and drink options, making it a stress-free celebration. Immersive Gamebox
delivers unique, team-based gameplay that guarantees lasting birthday memories.
Monster Mini Golf is the planetary leader in glow-in-the-dark mini golf every day of the year. Their goal is to provide an exceptional and engaging family entertainment experience in a unique and fun environment. At Monster Mini Golf, prepare for a monstrous birthday party experience like no other. Their full-service Memory Makers will make your child’s birthday an unforgettable experience for not only the little monsters but for all the big monsters as well. Their two-hour events provide nonstop entertainment and engagement with staff who specialize in turning wow moments into lasting memories. From setup to cleanup and everything in between, your dedicated Memory Maker will handle everything for the duration of the event. Monster Mini Golf guarantees a stress-free experience for party parents, at an affordable cost.
Looking for the best sports and dance party in Westchester? At The Play Place and No
Limits Performing Arts Studio, they deliver high-energy fun for kids and adults. Choose from multisports, or kick it up with a dance party led by energetic instructors. Whether your group loves action-packed sports or dancing to the latest hits, they have you covered. The professional staff ensures fun and safety, and all-inclusive packages take care of everything from pizza and drinks to decorations. Whether it’s a birthday, team celebration, or special event, top-notch facilities and expert coaching make your party unforgettable.
Bring excitement and adventure to your child’s next birthday party at The Rock Club. Climbing is the perfect way to create a memorable and unique birthday party experience. Partygoers will spend 90 minutes climbing and 30 minutes in a private party room overlooking the gym where pizza and soda is provided (or you can bring your own). Their expert staff ensures everyone of all skills and abilities will be excited and engaged while scaling walls and conquering challenges. They even have a ton of extra add-ons to make your party even more memorable, like blacklight glow-in-the-dark climbing and a variety of party favors. Mention Westchester Family for 5% off your child’s birthday next party at The Rock Club!
World
Cup
170 Joan Corwin Way, Chappaqua 914-238-4967
worldcupgymnastics.com
Head to World Cup Gymnastics, where kids are allowed to be kids. The birthday crew can jump on trampolines and air castles, flip on the Tumble Trak and swing into the foam and ball pits, then settle down in a private party room to enjoy more birthday fun. Parents can choose from many packages, then sit back and enjoy while World Cup does all the work! Parties for children age 3 and under take place in the Romperee Gym, which is filled with special gymnastics equipment and toys for younger birthday revelers. Parties for children ages 4 and up take place in a 19,000 square-foot gymnastics complex that features special preschool equipment and obstacle courses using state-of-the-art competition and training equipment.
calendar
by shara levine
westchester
enchanted Forest
Whe N: Saturday, Nov. 2, 10:30am–3:45pm
Where : Teatown, 1600 Spring Valley Road, Ossining
aGes: All
What: Enter the Enchanted Forest for a guided adventure featuring a cast of whimsical characters and familiar forest friends.
WaNt to Go?: $10-$17. teatown.org
howls of North america
Whe N: Nov. 2-30, Saturdays and Sundays, 2am–3:30pm
Where : Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run, South Salem
aGes: All
What: Learn about the mythology, biology and ecology of wolf families and discover why it’s a special time for packs in North America.
WaNt to Go?: $15; $12 younger than 12. nywolf.org
Día de muertos
Whe N: Nov. 2-3, Saturday and Sunday, 12–4pm.
Where : Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers
aGes: 6 and older
What: Celebrate Día de Muertos by making Cempasúchils, or Mexican Marigolds, in an art workshop and leave it on the community altar or take it home.
WaNt to Go?: Included with admission: $8-$13. (914) 963–4550, hrm.org
omnium circus presents i’m Possible
Whe N: Sunday, Nov. 3, 3–5pm
Where : Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill
aGes: All
What: This spirited limit-defying & life-affirming spectacular
includes award winning artistry, memorable music, a heartwarming story and a beautiful mosaic of performers.
WaNt to Go?: $44$58.50. (914) 739–0039, paramounthudsonvalley.com
owl talk & Prowl
Whe N: Friday, Nov. 8, 7–9pm
Where : Muscoot Farm, 51 Route 100, Katonah
aGes: 6 and older
What: Listen to a short intro talk followed by night walk on the Muscoot Farm dirt roads through fields and forest to listen and look for owls.
WaNt to Go?: Free. muscootfarm.org
Folk art: Diwali celebration
Whe N: Sunday, Nov. 10, 1–3pm
Where : Pelham Art Center, 155 Fifth Ave., Pelham aGes: All
What: Experience the delight
of Diwali with live performances and activities.
WaNt to Go?: Free. (914) 738–2525, pelhamartcenter.org
veterans Day commemoration
Whe N: Monday, Nov. 11, 11am
Where : St. Paul’s Church N.H.S. 897 S. Columbus Ave., Mt. Vernon aGes: All
What: Tour the historic cemetery and learn about the stories of some of the soldiers and sailors buried at St. Paul’s followed by a presentation exploring the history of our national anthems.
WaNt to Go?: Free. (914) 667–4116, nps.gov
Farm Friends
Whe N: Nov. 14, 10–11am.
Where : Hilltop Hanover Farm & Environmental Center, 1271 Hanover St., Yorktown Heights
aGes: 3 – 6
What: Children will engage in educational and enriching activities using the farm and landscape as inspiration.
WaNt to Go?: $12. (914) 862–5006, hilltophanoverfarm.org
Where : Cross County Center, 8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers aGes: All
What: Capture a magical photo of your family inside Santa’s home away from home at Cross County Center.
WaNt to Go?: Packages start at $39.99. (914) 968–9570, crosscountycenter.com
Fall Fest Weekend
Whe N: Nov. 16-17, Saturday and Sunday, 9am–5pm.
Where : Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye
learn about wolves at the Wolf conservation center, weekends this month.
calendar NOv EMBER
aGes: 12 and younger
What: Participate in STEAM activities that celebrate the changing seasons.
WaNt to Go?: $14. (914) 421–5050, discoverwcm.org
Family amaryllis bulb Planting Workshop
Whe N: Saturday, Nov. 16, 10–11am
Where : Hudson Park
Children’s Greenhouse, 44 Wildcliff Drive, New Rochelle
aGes: All
What: Bond with your family and explore the joys of indoor gardening while planting amaryllis bulbs to bring home and watch grow.
WaNt to Go?: $25. hpcgreenhouse.org
the Panto company: rumplestiltskin
Whe N: Sunday, Nov. 17, 3–5pm
Where : Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill
aGes: All
What: This classic fairy tale heads to the stage filled with music and audience participation.
WaNt to Go?: $37; $25 youth. (914) 739–0039, paramounthudsonvalley.com
Delaware blue coats vs. Westchester knicks
Whe N: Thursday, Nov. 21, 7pm
Where : Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave., White Plains
aGes: All
What: See the Westchester Knicks in their first home game of the season when they take on the Delaware Blue Coats.
WaNt to Go?: Tickets start at $16.85. (914) 995–4050, countycenter.biz
60th annual New rochelle thanksgiving Parade
Whe N: Saturday, Nov. 23, 10am–1pm
Where : Parade steps off in front of 794 North Ave., New Rochelle
aGes: All
What: Parade balloons, marching bands, floats, vintage cars, dancers, singers, emergency responders, local leaders, and marchers from the community are all part of this annual event.
h oli Day h i G hli G hts
The 16th Annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop
Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses
437 North Street, Greenwich, CT
203-273-1166
greenwichreindeerfestival.com
Santa and his three live reindeer are returning to Greenwich for the 16th year. Meet the reindeer, get your family photo with Santa, write letters to Santa, enjoy the reindeer coloring station, and participate in the two Mercedes-Benz kids electric car raffles. Visit the beautiful Christmas shop and get your Christmas tree at Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses! Presented by Jenny Allen Real Estate at Compass.
The Nutcracker with Central Park Dance
Capitol Theatre
December 8, 12:30pm & 5pm
A winter tradition for Westchester families, Central Park Dance will return to The Capitol Theatre this holiday season with its ninth annual production of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. Join Clara on her wild journey through a blizzard of ballerinas into a Land of Sweets filled with colorful characters and pure holiday magic. This beloved classic features over 100 dancers from Central Park Dance and surrounding Westchester communities.
Where : Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Pkwy. Road, Valhalla
aGes: All
What: This beloved interactive holiday event will be bigger and better than ever with thousands of electrifying lights, two 100foot light tunnels, and special themed nights.
WaNt to Go?: $37 per car. wwinterwonderland.com
stepinac high school sports cards & memorabilia show
Whe N: Sunday, Nov. 24, 9am–4pm
Where : Archbishop Stepinac High School, 950 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains
aGes: All
What: Check out an incredible selection of sports cards, autographs, collectibles, and more
937–4126, thecapitoltheatre.com
nyc
big apple circus: hometown Playground
Whe N: Nov. 8-Jan. 5, see website for complete schedule
Where : Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center, Amsterdam Ave. & W 62nd St., Upper West Side
aGes: 5 and up
What: This all-new show celebrates the magic and excitement of the city that never sleeps with soaring acrobats, jaw-dropping stunts, comedic mischief, and the cutest performing dogs ever.
WaNt to Go?: Tickets start at $44. bigapplecircus.com
kids on the move! Foliage Frolic
Whe N: Sunday, Nov. 10, 1 – 2 pm
Where : Wave Hill, 4900 Independence Ave., Riverdale aGes: 4 - 8
along with raffles and giveaways. WaNt to Go?: $5. stepinac. org
the Wild turkeys of marshlands
Whe N: Saturday, Nov. 30, 1pm
Where : Marshlands Conservancy, Route 1, Rye aGes: All
What: Walk off your Thanksgiving dinner while you look for and discuss the natural history of one of Marshlands’ most popular residents: the Wild Turkey.
WaNt to Go?: Free. (914) 835–4466, marshlandsconservancy.org
the rock and roll Playhouse Plays the music of Queen For kids + more
Whe N: Saturday, Nov. 30, 2pm
Where : The Capitol Theatre, 149 Westchester Ave., Port Chester
aGes: 10 and younger
What: Introduce your children to the music of Queen at this concert for kids.
WaNt to Go?: $17.50 in advance; $20 at the door. (914)
What: Learn about the complex process of photosynthesis and how trees use, and lose, their leaves in the fall then take part in a leaf inspired family yoga class.
WaNt to Go?: $4-$10. (718) 549–3200, wavehill.org
98th macy’s thanksgiving Day Parade
Whe N: Thursday, Nov. 28, 8:30 am – 12 pm
Where : Parade will pass
Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W 34th St., Herald Square aGes: All
What: Giant balloons, fabulous floats, exciting entertainers & more are joining this all-star celebration of Thanksgiving!
WaNt to Go?: Free. macys. com
holiday train show
Whe N: Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am – 6 pm through Jan. 20
Where : New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Fordham
aGes: All
What: Enter a winter wonderland featuring model locomotives and trolleys traveling through a mini city of familiar local architecture.
