October 2020
Westchesterfamily.com
Take your pick:
Pumpkin Patches! Book Smart Fall Reading for All
Queens mom Kimberly Seals Allers creates Irth app to fight Black and Latina maternal mortality
Find the Best
High School for Your Teen
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contents
October 2020
NewYorkFamily.com | WestchesterFamily.com
pg. 10
pg. 12 pg. 28
pg. 30
pg. 24
8 | Health Why kids should still get a flu shot
24 | Kimberly Seals Allers: Power Mom Queens mom Kimberly Seals Allers creates Irth app to fight Black and Latina maternal mortality
4 | Editor’s Note October Moving Forward
10 | Pets Adopting or fostering a dog or cat during COVID
28 | Family Day Out Fall pumpkin patches in and near NYC
6 | Mom Hacks Halloween face masks including a fun bat DIY
12 | Education How to choose the best high school for your teen
30 | Books Hester Aba rounds up five must-read books perfect for fall reading
FEATURES
20 | Books Your go-to roundup of the latest kids’ books to start up the school year
Stories & columns
Directories 14 | High School Listings
on the Cover Photo: Yumi Matsuo | yumimatsuostudio.com Hair & Makeup: Buffy Hernandez | buffysaintmarie.com
October 2020 | Bronx/Westchester Family
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Editor’s Note
NewYorkFamily.com WestchesterFamily.com Publisher: Clifford Luster Executive Editor: Donna Duarte-Ladd Digital Editor: Katarina Avendaño Senior Adviser: Susan Weiss Digital Director: Erik Bliss Partnership Managers: Erin Brof, Mary Cassidy, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, LynnMarie Hanley, Nina Spiegelman Ad Operations Manager: Rosalia Bobé Art Director: Leah Mitch Web Developer: Sylvan Migdal Graphic Designers: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti Nina Gallo Photography
October — Moving Forward Fall has arrived, and while the weather chill greets us most mornings, the seasonal change reminds us more than ever, so does life. School is in session in its new form; our city is working toward recovering, and parents are keeping it together. If looking for a fun weekend outing, we have a roundup of Fall Pumpkin Patches (page 28) in and around the city to pick up that Halloween pumpkin! We are also excited for book reading this season for those cozy days in; check out our
fall picks for both the kids (page 20) and parents (page 30). Lastly, we are thankful to have Kimberly Seals Allers of the Irth app (Power Mom, page 26) as our cover mom this month. Kimberly is on a mission to help end racism and bias in maternity and infant care. We appreciate this busy mother taking the time to share her knowledge and story! Donna Ladd Executive Editor
Editorial Contributors: Jana Beauchamp, Mia Salas Editorial Interns: Grace Benninghoff, Katrina Makayan, Marta Rybczynski
Contact Information
ADVERTISING: (718) 260-4554 Advertising@NewYorkFamily.com Circulation: (718) 260-8336 Tina@NewYorkFamily.com
Address: New York Family Media/Schneps Media 1 MetroTech Center North, Third Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201
President: Victoria Schneps-Yunis CEO: Joshua Schneps Group Publisher: Clifford Luster
New York Family has been awarded the PMA Gold Award for Excellence both overall and in Website Design
2020
New York Family is published monthly by Queens Family Media, LLC.
get in touch Share your feedback and ideas about family life in the city! Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily
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Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
Reproduction of New York Family Media in whole or part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. ©2020 Queens Family Media, LLC
October 2020 | Bronx/Westchester Family
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MOM HACKS
Hal��we�n Face Mask�! BY DONNA DUARTE �LADD
G
overnor Cuomo (as of press time) has shared that he has no plans to ban Halloween trick-or-treating. However, this will depend on how parents choose to celebrate. While schools are adjusting to being open, there hasn’t been any news if costumes will be allowed on this day. Regardless of you have a chill Halloween or go full costume, kids are going to be encouraged to wear face masks. We have themed masks that celebrate the spirit of Halloween. So find your fun Halloween mask and order early for all your goblins and creatures. DIY Bat Mask Crafter and teacher extraordinaire Bee Zizzo designed this mask, especially for New York Family readers. Use a mask you already have in a fun color or use white like our bat mask. Instructions below!
MATERIALS: • kid size face mask (I used the Japanese Seamless Comfort mask) • black wool felt • HeatnBond Ultrahold iron-on adhesive • iron • craft scissors STEPS: • place adhesive on backside of felt (paper liner should face up) • hold medium heat iron on paper liner for two seconds, repeat until the surface of felt is bonded • allow to cool • draw outlines of bat shapes onto the paper liner
• cut out the outlines of the bats, peel off paper liners (use craft or household scissors, the adhesive could ruin your fabric scissors) • place felt bats (adhesive side down) on top of the mask • press and hold iron for 10 seconds on each bat until the entire bat is bonded to the mask (best to hand wash and air dry)
Ghost Halloween Reusable Face Mask Practice social distancing with this classic Halloween themed mask that includes an insert slot allowing you to insert a disposable mask inside (you’ll have to provide a disposable mask). $12.95, zazzle.com
Sesame Street Elmo Face Face Mask Your little one will love this Sesame Street Elmo mask this Halloween as well as after for it is washable and with the embedded nose wire, easy to wear! $14.99, maskclub.com
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Scary Eyeball & Halloween Blue Eye / Spooky Mask This is a bit on the creepy side but hey its Halloween. Perfect for the kid who isn’t planning a costume and wants a mask that brings in the spooky fun of the holiday. $12.95, zazzle.com
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
Cloth Face Masks 2-Pack – Mickey & Minnie Mouse These limited release Halloween masks are fun for all the Disney lovers who wish to incorporate a bit of Mickey magic to their Halloween costume or want their mask to be the costume! $11.99, shopdisney.com
Jay Mota, ChFC®
FinAnCiAl MATTers
Financial Planner with Prudential Advisors Call for a complimentary personal consultation (914) 565 4287 Jay.Mota@Prudential.com
Teaching Kids About Money A
s a parent, it’s your responsibility to teach your children about the world, including how to manage money. Financial literacy is one of the most important lessons you can impart on your children to make them successful in adulthood. Raise fiscally responsible children by teaching them the right lessons for their developmental level. Teach them the basics from a young age and build on them as your children grow up.
Young Children (2-7 years old) You can decide how early to begin teaching your child about money. Some experts suggest beginning as soon as a child shows an interest in money or starts asking for things at the store. You and your child should work through these educational goals during this period in the following ways: Recognizing money: Your child needs to be able to identify different coins and bills and differentiate between the value of each. Making correct change: Teach your child how to add and subtract money using bills and coins (real or pretend). Saving for a goal: If your child gets an allowance, help him or her stash some or all of it away in a piggy bank with a specific purchase goal in mind. It might be helpful to tape a photo of the desired purchase near the piggy bank. Keep in mind that young children are most successful with concrete goals that can be reached quickly. For instance, help your child save money for two weeks in order to buy a new toy. Young children learn by
modeling their parents’ behavior, so take any opportunity you can to show your child your own responsible money use—point out the cheapest options at the grocery store or tell the child what your savings goals are. Young children also learn by playing games, so turn financial literacy into a game to keep your child engaged. You can turn your living room into a store and trade pretend money for items, have the child clip coupons with you or practice identifying coins together.
Elementary Age Children (8-12 years old) Older children have more experience with math and a bigger capacity for understanding how money works. They’re also bombarded with commercials and peer pressure to buy various items. Now is the perfect time to teach your child where money comes from, how to earn it and how to manage it. Banking: Open a bank account for your child and make regular trips to the bank together to deposit money for savings. As an incentive for savings, you may consider matching your child’s savings contribution. Interest: Now that your child has a bank account, you can teach him or her about earning interest by going over bank statements together. Teach your child about compounded interest vs. simple interest and introduce the idea of credit—owing interest. Budgeting: Teach your child the difference between needs and wants and help him or her allocate allowance money among savings for a goal, long-term sav-
ings in the bank, spending money and charitable contributions. This is also a good time to talk about delayed gratification and making tradeoffs. Smart shopping: Children need to know about comparison shopping, unit prices, coupons, generic goods and how value is tied to price. Have your child help you decide between comparable products at the store based on quality and price. Providing a weekly or monthly allowance is a great way to help children practice these new skills—just make sure they know what they are expected to pay for, and how much must be going to the bank. Make sure your children want to budget and save money on their own so they’ll continue the practice when you’re no longer controlling their cash flow.
Teenagers (13-19 years old) By the time a child becomes a teenager, he or she is ready to learn about the more complex aspects of finances. Prepare your teenager for adulthood with some final lessons on how money works. Checking: Make sure your teen has his or her own checking account before college. Teens should be able to write checks, balance a checkbook and avoid overdrawing. Getting a job: The best way for a teenager to learn the value of a dollar is to earn money from a job. Your child will practice jobrelated skills such as interviewing and getting along with coworkers, and they’ll have a better idea of what their money is worth when they earn it themselves. You
might want to increase the expenses your child is expected to cover once he or she has a job— such as car insurance, school lunches or field trips—to help him or her practice budgeting. Taxes: Teens usually get their first experience with income taxes when they get their first job. Help your child file a tax return for the first time, and use the experience as a chance to educate about taxes. Investing: Your child might be disenchanted by the low interest accruing on his or her savings account. This provides a great opportunity to talk about investing together. You can open an investment account for your child— start simple with a money market account, CDs or savings bonds. Teach your child about the stock market and introduce the concept of diversifying Credit: Consider getting your teen a credit card and supervising use. You can opt for a very low credit limit to start, or even creating an account in your name with your child as an authorized user. This way, the teen will get to practice using a credit card and paying off the balance, but you can monitor the spending and payment activity. Teach your teen about the risks of financial ruin from credit debt by examining interest tables. If you’re responsible with your own money and model that behavior to your children from an early age, they will most likely follow suit. Keeping the lines of communication and education open is the key to ensuring that your children grow up financially literate.
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October 2020 | Bronx/Westchester Family
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HealtH
Why Kids Should Still Get a Flu Shot Yes, even during the pandemic By Donna Duarte-LaDD
W
hile parents have been focusing on keeping the family safe during the pandemic, the arrival of the new school year brings up the yearly flu shot. COVID-19 is still a threat, and some may forget even to get the flu shot or have the kids get their annual shots. We chatted with Dr. Beata Dygulska, Pediatrician, and Director of the Newborn Nursery at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital on the importance of the flu shot during COVID-19. Should kids get the flu shot? Every child over 6 months of age should get the flu shot (with the exception of children with previous anaphylaxis or an extreme reaction to the vaccine). Ideally, the flu shot should be administered as soon as it is available as it takes a few weeks for it to reach its full effectiveness. Each year children suffer severe illness and even death as a result of the flu. Getting your child the flu shot is an easy, safe, and effective way to keep them healthy. This winter will be even more challenging as we face the COVID-19 pandemic with symptoms that overlap with the flu infection. How can you tell the difference between the flu and COVID? What are the different symptoms and what should a parent do if their child comes down with certain symptoms, e.g., when should a parent keep a child home from school? Unfortunately, flu symptoms are very similar to COVID-19 symptoms. If your child experiences symptoms like fever, cough, stomach-issues, body-aches, they should be kept at home while you get in touch with your healthcare provider. Children that are infected with COVID-19 are also at risk of developing MIS-C (Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome in Children). MIS-C usually develops several weeks after the COVID-19 infection and is a result of an overactive immune system response to the virus. The MIS-C syndrome is very rare, however, can be life-threatening and requires
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immediate medical attention. Symptoms of MIS-C include high fever, abdominal pain, respiratory distress, and/or a rash. Does the flu shot help with COVID? This is still unknown, there is currently no data that supports the idea that the flu shot may help with COVID-19. However, the flu shot is still very effective for the flu and is the best available option to keep your child as healthy as possible during the pandemic. Is COVID-19 in children different than in adults? If yes, how so? Why? Children are affected less frequently and less severely by COVID-19 than adults and while a child that is infected with COVID-19 may show little to no symptoms, they can still be contagious. Recent evidence suggests that children have the same or potentially higher viral loads as adults do in their noses and can spread the virus easily throughout
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
their homes, schools, camps etc. This is why handwashing, social distancing and wearing masks is critical in preventing the spread of the virus. As we head into flu season, is there any other information or guidance you’d like to share with parents about flu/COVID in children? Your child’s mental wellbeing is very important in this time. Just like the rest of us, children are worried about themselves, their family, and their friends, so it is important to reassure them that they are safe. Try to maintain a normal routine, talk to them, listen to what they have to say, give honest and accurate information, monitor their behavior and health, and reassure them about their safety and well-being. Teach your children everyday actions like handwashing, wearing a mask (over 2 years of age), and social distancing. And don’t forget the flu shot!
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- Childcare (2-years to 5-years) - Family EarlyLearn CACFP - Headstart - Pre-school Evaluations - Universal Pre-K - Pre-school Special Education - Family EarlyLearn (6-weeks to 4-years) - 3-K for All program For more information contact the central office located at: 880 River Avenue Bronx, NY 10452 2nd Floor Phone: (718) 992-1321 Fax: (718) 992-8539 James W. Nathaniel, CEO HacFamilyServicesInc.org www.hacfs.org Nearly a half a century of service to the Bronx
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pets
Welcoming a Pet into Your Family NYC animal shelters that offer fostering and adoption of dogs and cats during COVID By Marta Rybczynski
A
re you feeling ready to welcome a cuddly new family member? Dogs and cats make for the best of companions, and give a lifetime of memories for the family. With all this time spent at home, now is the perfect opportunity for adopting or fostering a pet. We’ve put together a list of some animal shelters around New York City that value rescues and give them the love and care they need before you can. Second Chance Rescue 260 6th St, Verplanck, NY 10596
This shelter has rescued thousands of animals in New York City and taken care of these fourlegged friends like they’re family. Each rescue is taken to a veterinary clinic for proper medical treatment, where they are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, micro-chipped, and tested for heart worm before they’re available for adoption or fostering. The applications for adoption and fostering are all online. Potential adopters can see all the animals they have available listed online! Contact: nycsecondchancerescue.org/ contact/ for email form Best Friends in New York 307 West Broadway New York, NY 10013
Adopt a dog or a cat completely online! Best Friends offers a virtual adoption process, where applicants are able to peruse a list of available pets, interviewed through videoconference, and meet their potential pet over Zoom. If you’re in the market for a more mature pet, adoption fees are waived for pets that are over the age of 8! Contact: contactnyc@bestfriends. org ASPCA in NYC 424 E. 92nd St. New York, NY 10128
The ASPCA adoption center in NYC is persevering through COVID, thanks to the kindness of their volunteer foster caregivers. These caregivers are conducting remote animal adoptions, with videoconference calls and minimal-contact meetups. Contact: (212) 8767700 ext. 4120. Animal Care Centers of NYC 11 Park Place, Ste 805, New York, NY 10007
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This animal shelter houses not only dogs and cats, but bunnies too! Adopters can browse Animal Care Center’s website for cats, dogs, and bunnies, and contact this organization identifying which friend they’d like to adopt. Animal Care Centers of NYC is dedicated to serving the community by partnering with over 200 animal placement organizations. They act as a huge resource to the NYC animal community. Contacts: adopt@nycacc.org; foster@ nycacc.org City Critters Petco, 991 Second Ave; PetSmart, 632 Broadway
City Critters takes animal adoption very seriously, making sure their animals get the best home possible. They conduct several rounds of interviews with adopters, as well as
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
requiring references from adopters’ friends/ family/or coworkers before giving permission to adopt. Of course, due to COVID, this will be a fully virtual process done through videoconference, phone, and email. Contact: Petco: 212-593-7213; Petsmart: 212-475-0893 Animal Haven 200 Centre Street New York, NY 10013
Operating by appointment only, Animal Haven works their hardest to make sure that every animal is at its highest chance of being adopted. They take excellent care of their cats and dogs, spaying/neutering them, giving them core vaccines, and microchipping them. Animal Haven also provides behavior intervention to animals that need it, giving them the best chance at being adopted. Contact: 212-274-8511
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education
High School Guide How to choose the best type of high school for your teen By Mia SalaS
H
igh school will surely look different this year with blended learning, but we’re confident NYC schools will find a way to make high school as valuable as it was in the past. Your not-so-little little ones are on their way to becoming adults, which means that those last four years in high school are so important! You want your kiddos to be prepared with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in college and beyond. Yet NYC has a lot of options for high school, so it can be overwhelming to decide which type of school is right for your teen. That’s why we’ve rounded up NYC high schools, including public, private, charter, and more. If you’re looking for a high school that best suits the needs of your family, check out our guide! Public Schools Getting a diploma, attending college, and pursuing a career are top priorities for NYC public high schools! We love NYC public schools, as they really care about prepping our kids for the future with extracurricular activities, internships, and volunteer experiences. Your kids will have lots more flexibility in their schedule so that they can figure out what they really enjoy learning. We also support NYC public school’s commitment to diversity & inclusion, which they not only actively reflect in the classroom, but use in their teaching to assure that students can embrace their identities. There are plenty of resources for multilingual and special education learners, so no child is left behind in NYC public high schools! As your teen takes on more responsibility in high school, they’ll also learn how to better manage their time, balance their interests and graduation requirements, plan for college and career, and more. Private Schools At NYC private schools, your high schooler will have an abundance of opportunities, activities and clubs, meaningful projects, and more to choose to get involved in. With
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expansive indoor and outdoor facilities, technology resources, student publications, athletic teams, and summer opportunities, your teen will have what they need to succeed. With NYC private high schools, we love the emphasis on individuality and responsibility. Your kids are treated like adults, in that teachers trust and respect them, they’ll have plenty of ways to pursue their independent interests, and they’ll get to exercise leadership through various outlets, in and out of the classroom. Because of smaller class sizes, kids get to really get to know the people in their classes and form meaningful connections with their teachers, all while getting the help and support they need. Boarding Schools If you really want your high schooler to have a more independent experience, consider NYC boarding schools! At boarding high schools, students may come from all over the world, so your kids will be immersed into a diverse environment where they’ll learn and grow. Your high schooler will also have access to incredible facilities complete with libraries, studios, tech and science labs, and more. They’ll get to take on University coursework and leadership opportunities that will prepare them for college, in addition to having beyond excellent resources for college counseling. Our favorite thing about NYC boarding schools for high schoolers is that they’ll get to experience dorm life before college, where they’ll get to form meaningful connections with their peers that go beyond classroom interactions. There’s a few boarding schools in NYC, but you can even expand your search to boarding schools in New York state, NJ, or even further to have more options! Charter Schools With now 260 charter schools in NYC, we’ve grown to know and appreciate these free public schools open to all NYC kids, but independent of the Department of Education (DEO). So what’s the benefit of a charter school? These schools have more freedom
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
and accountability (if charter schools don’t meet certain goals, then they can be closed), so they can try out new approaches to learning and easily adapt to the needs of their students and the broader school community. Many charter schools have longer days and years because they are not confined to a certain school calendar set by the DEO, and your family can choose the charter school that best suits your needs. Charter schools also support kids with special needs and students who are learning English. With clear performance goals, charter schools are incredibly motivated to set your kids up for success as they head into college and careers through honing in on written and verbal communication skills, improving time management and study habits, encouraging extracurricular activities, and preparing students for excellent academic performance.
Catholic Schools At an NYC Catholic high school, your teen will learn to better understand themselves and their relationship to God and others. All high school programs are rooted in Catholic religious beliefs and values, fostering a safe and nurturing environment. NYC Catholic schools are known for their stellar record with high graduation rates, college acceptances, and successful careers. There are many different schools to choose from,
including co-ed and single sex. The three main types of Catholic high schools are independent, parish, and private, each with a unique atmosphere. If your eighth grader is considering applying to a Catholic high school, be sure to look into the required Test for Admission into Catholic High Schools (TACHS) exam. Jewish Schools Combining education with traditional
Jewish values, Jewish high schools in NYC offer a stellar experience for your kids as they transition into young adults. In high school, your child will continue to study Torah and develop their relationship to God, practice meaningful observance, recognize their shared history with Jewish people, deepen their knowledge and respect for the State of Israel, learn Hebrew language and literature, and actively engage through self-reflection and social and political activism. We really love the emphasis on learning experiences that happen both inside and outside of the classroom at NYC Jewish schools through clubs and extracurriculars, religious observances, and trips in and beyond NYC. There are many Jewish high schools to choose from in NYC, both co-ed and single-sex, so find out which one is best for your family.
October 2020 | Bronx/Westchester Family
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high Schools Directory | Special Advertising Supplement
Catholic College Preparatory School for Girls
Virtual visits, real Community! Dominican Academy has been recognized twice as a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education and is ranked the #3 Catholic girls high school in New York for 2020-2021! s $URING THIS GLOBAL HEALTH CRISIS $ ! REMAINS COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AND THE SAFETY OF ALL MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY 3TUDENTS ALWAYS RECEIVE live instruction 5 days a week AS PART OF OUR $ISTANCE ,EARNING 0ROGRAM OR (YBRID ,EARNING -ODEL s ,OCATED IN AN historic mansion on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, $ ! IS EASILY ACCESSIBLE BY THE % & AND . 1 2 TRAINS s ! diverse community of 250 students COME FROM ALL BOROUGHS OF .EW 9ORK #ITY #ONNECTICUT ,ONG )SLAND .EW *ERSEY 7ESTCHESTER AND ABROAD s $ ! STANDS ALONE AS the only all-honors high school for girls IN .EW 9ORK OFFERING ELECTIVES AND !DVANCED 0LACEMENT COURSES
s 7E ARE PROUD OF OUR 100% graduation rate WITH GRADUATES IN OUR #LASS OF AVERAGING OVER EACH IN MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS s Student-Faculty ratio of 8:1 WITH OF FACULTY HOLDING AT LEAST ONE ADVANCED DEGREE s /UR UNIQUE Service Learning Program ENCOURAGES STUDENTS TO ENGAGE IN SERVICE AND TO UNDERSTAND THE ROLE OF &AITH IN THEIR LIVES s 30 + clubs and 8 Varsity teams: "ASKETBALL #ROSS #OUNTRY 3OCCER 3OFTBALL 3WIMMING )NDOOR AND /UTDOOR 4RACK AND 6OLLEYBALL s ! well-rounded Performing Arts curriculum WITH REQUIRED $RAMA -USIC AND $ANCE CLASSES
R.S.V.P. for our Virtual Open Houses Saturday, October 17, 2020 //10 to 11:30 AM Wednesday, October 28, 2020 // 5 to 6:30 PM DominicanAcademy.org / 44 East 68th Street, New York, NY 10065 T 212.744.0195 / F 212.744.0375 / @DominicanAcademy Direct all questions to Madeleine Metzler, ‘07, Director of Admissions at 212.744.0195, ext. 131 or admissions@dominicanacademy.org.
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Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
Cardinal Spellman High School One Cardinal Spellman Place, Bronx, NY 718-881-8000 ext. 206 www.cardinalspellman.org Cardinal Spellman High School, a co-educational college preparatory school, was founded by the archdiocese in 1959. Cardinal Spellman offers: College Credit, Advanced Placement, Regents, Honors and Elective Courses. A 13-acre campus located in the Tremont section of the Bronx, equipped with two all-weather athletic fields and track, a fitness room, and a weight room. Spellman prides itself on small school friendliness with big school opportunities. They have a 100% graduation rate, and 100% acceptance rate — with many graduates being awarded college scholarships. Learn more by visiting their website and taking their virtual tour.
Cathedral High School Midtown East 350 E. 56th St., New York, NY 212-688-1545 cathedralhs.org Cathedral High School, a Catholic College Preparatory school of the Archdiocese of New York located in the heart of Manhattan, welcomes young women of all faiths and cultures. It is a community of students, teachers, staff, parents and alumnae committed to achieving excellence in education. They continually challenge their students to become productive members of society who will conduct themselves with religious and moral integrity in the pursuit of social justice.
Dominican Academy Catholic College Preparatory School for Girls 44 East 68th Street, New York, NY 10065 212-744-0195 DominicanAcademy.org Direct all inquiries to: Madeleine B. Metzler, ‘07, Director of Admissions, 212-744-0195, ext. 131 or admissions@ dominicanacademy.org Since 1897, Dominican
Academy (D.A.) has consistently ranked among NYC’s best high schools. Located in a mansion on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, D.A. unites academic excellence with a family-like atmosphere. Sponsored by the Dominican Sisters, we are the only all-honors high school for girls in NYS. D.A. challenges and empowers students to be leaders on a local and global scale. Our 250 students come from all boroughs of NYC, CT, Long Island, NJ, and Westchester. Students benefit from a robust academic program with 15+ A.P.s and 20+ electives, our 30+ clubs and 8 Varsity Athletic teams, and our Service Learning Program..
Lower East Side Prep High School 145 Stanton Street New York, NY 10002 212-505-6366 www.lespnyc.com ranaya@schools.nyc.gov Lower East Side Preparatory HighSchool boasts a safe, supportive, and Technologyrich environment that motivates all students to succeed. With a renowned ESL/Transitional Bilingual Program in Spanish and Chinese and a variety of Enrichment, AP, Regents, Prep and extended day courses, LESP sends more than 80% of their graduates to college. The Transfer School provides structure and support to those who are over-aged and underaccredited and helps students get a new start, whether from around the world or around the block.
Montfort Academy 125 E. Birch St., Mount Vernon 914-699-7090 themontfortacademy.org The Montfort Academy is a small, private, coeducational Catholic high school that offers a timeless, foundational, inspirational, and transformational classical education. A Montfort education transcends time-classical but forward and forms faith and character as well as the mind. Montfort is a magical setting, a fortress
OPEN HOUSE DATES: Virtual, Live-Streaming & In-Person Options Sunday, October 18th 3-6PM Tuesday, October 27th 6-9PM REGISTER AT: www.themontfortacademy.org
“There is almost no place on earth where Western civilization with its incredible history, Christian values, and morality comes to life more than the Academy.” - Montfort Parent
62% of parents give Montfort a perfect 10/10 stars, when asked if they would recommend Montfort to family or friends. Parents give Montfort a 9.4/10 stars for our formation of character. (2019 Data)
A NYC Public School Dedicated To Giving A Highly Personalized Student Experience
Lower East Side Preparatory High School Get into the college or career of your dreams! • Nine AP Courses • 80+ Paid Internships • Flexible Programming • Extensive Clubs and • After-school Programs
Register directly at LESP, 9am-1pm daily, or call for more information.
145 Stanton Street, 4th Floor, New York, New York 10002 • 212-505-6366 • lespnyc.com October 2020 | Bronx/Westchester Family
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high Schools Directory | Special Advertising Supplement
where students and faculty members consider themselves a family and grow together in soul, mind, and body. As a family, they care deeply about one another and their futures-- they seek earthly success, but they also seek Heaven. Montfort has to be experienced—in person or virtually—to understand just how special and excellent it is. Deliberately small, with a 6:1 student faculty ratio, they have never had less than a 100% college admissions rate. As the #1 diverse school in Westchester County, Montfort is surprisingly affordable, too.
Preston High School 2780 Schurz Ave., Bronx, NY 718-863-9134 prestonhs.org Established in 1947 by the Sisters of the Divine Compassion as an independent collegepreparatory Catholic school. They have a longstanding tradition of academic excellence and commitment to empowering
young women to become compassionate leaders for change. They offer a broad and challenging curriculum, the support of a diverse, faithcentered community and a commitment to Christian service. The co-curricular program includes honor societies, service clubs, choirs and special interest groups. Those interested in growing artistically have many options including the school musical produced by the Preston Players. The Athletic Department sponsors varsity and junior varsity teams including soccer, basketball, volleyball, cheerleading and softball (2017 division champions). Their goal is to help students become women of dignity, honor, respect and compassion.
northeast Bronx, offering academics for every learner from AP/Honors, College Credits, Regents, and Support Services with a variety of extracurricular clubs and sports. SBHS develops confident, capable, respectful young women from diverse backgrounds. SBHS adapts to the needs of its student body whether through traditional learning or continuous bellto-bell hybrid, in-school and online, learning. Take a Virtual Tour by visiting www.stbarnabashigh.com. In-person school tours are available on Wednesdays. Schedule your tour by calling Gina Nieves, Director of Admissions at 718-3258800 x20 or email gnieves@ stbarnabashigh.com. TACHS# 214.
Saint Barnabas High School
St. Catharine Academy
425 E. 240th Street, Bronx NY 718-325-8800x20 www.stbarnabashigh.com Saint Barnabas High School (SBHS) is an all-girls college preparatory school in the
2250 Williamsbridge Rd, Bronx 718-882-2882 www.scah.org St. Catharine Academy has been preparing young women in the Mercy tradition for
college success, leadership, and engagement in the world community since 1889. We offer a rigorous academic curriculum, including Advancement Placement Courses, Regents Courses, and Academic Honors. We offer a 1:1 iPad Program included in tuition, which allows our students to access their textbooks and take notes on their iPad provided by SCA. We are proud that our graduates have earned over $111 million in college academic scholarships and grants over the last six years. We welcome young women of all faiths and backgrounds.
St. Raymond Academy for Girls 1725 Castle Hill Avenue, Bronx NY 10462 718-824-4220 straymondacademy.org St. Raymond Academy, a Catholic high school for young women in an urban setting, inspires students to reach their God-given potential in a safe, supportive and diverse
We welcome young women of all faiths and backgrounds
St. Catharine Academy: Preparing Young Women for College Success, Leadership, and Engagement in the World Community
Core Values the SCA Way: • Educational Excellence through our rigorous academic curriculum (AP courses, Regents courses, Academic honors) • Compassion & Service • Concern for Women & Women’s Issues • World Vision & Responsibility • Spirituality Growth • Collaboration
“There could be no work more productive of good society ... then the careful instruction of women.” - Catherine McAuley
St. Catharine Academy 2250 Williamsbridge Road, Bronx N.Y. 10469 • 718-882-2882 • www.scahs.org 16
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
Join our Virtual Open House October 25th, 11:00am-2:00pm Register at www.scahs.org/openhouse20/
DISCOVER WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A RAVEN SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2020 Virtual Open House - https://bit.ly/3krDT3h
College Preparatory Curriculum Honors Division 100% College Acceptances Individualized Course of Study Advanced Placement Courses State of the Art Technology Three new Science Labs Two new Computer Labs
Batting Cages Fully Air-Conditioned Classrooms
Music and Art Studios College Counseling Championship Athletic Teams Intramural Sports Extracurricular Clubs and Activities Community Service Program Fitness Center
Chromebook Program College Credit Program with Pace University
Private Tours Available starting October
AFFORDABLE TUITION AFFO Tuition F Frozen for all Four Years
ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS Scholarships and Financial Aid Available
www.straymondhighschool.org • 718.824.5050x106 2151 St. Raymond Avenue, Bronx, NY 10462 For more information email admissions@straymondhighschool.org TACHS EXAM CODE 115
SPECIALIZED
WEBINARS (KTPZZPVU :JOVSHYZOPW 7YVJLZZ c 6J[
WHY PRESTON?
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• State-of-the-art science labs and new Engineering Tomorrow lab • AP classes and dual college credit classes with SUNY Albany • Faith centered, values-based community • Extensive co-curricular and sports programs • Abundant opportunities for academic scholarships—95% of Preston’s Class of 2019 were awarded scholarships and grants VIRTUAL
OPEN HOUSE Wed., Oct. 14 & Sun., Nov. 1
PRESTON HIGH SCHOOL ––––– EST. 1947 ––––– A sponsored ministry of the Sisters of the Divine Compassion
VISIT WWW.PRESTONHS.ORG FOR EVENT TIMES AND DETAILS. | 2780 SCHURZ AVENUE, BRONX, NY 10465 • 718-863-9134 2020_ParentNY_Ad half rv.indd 1
9/25/20 10:05 17 AM October 2020 | Bronx/Westchester Family
high Schools Directory | Special Advertising Supplement Belong. Believe. Become.
CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE Join us and discover how your daughter will succeed! • State-of-the-Art STEM Academy • Medical Gateways Academy including a partnership with The Memorial Sloan Kettering Science Enrichment Program • Business and Law Academy featuring internship opportunities and career awareness • Honors Academy • All students receive chrome books and use Google classroom making remote learning when necessary seamless and effective • Strong Arts Program • Competitive Sport program and rich extracurricular activities • The Class of 2020 earned over $20 million in college scholarships and grants • Academic Scholarships and Financial aid packages available
Sunday, October 18th, 12 PM–2PM Wednesday, October 28th, 6PM–8PM Registration Required. Visit cathedralhs.org/visit-our-school for details 350 East 56th Street, NYC • www.cathedralhs.org • 212.688.1545
TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR AND LEARN MORE ABOUT US
Visit https://tinyurl.com/SBHSFall2020OpenHouse
environment. Through a state approved curriculum and extracurricular activities, they encourage their students to seek value and truth. By empowering them with an education that promotes a commitment to excellence, self-discipline and strong Christian values, they challenge their students to become successful and accountable in a dynamic society. To learn more about the school, they invite you to attend their upcoming open house or take a virtual tour on their website. TACHS code: 220
St Raymond’s High School for Boys 2151 Saint Raymond Avenue, Bronx, NY 10462 718-824-5050x106 straymondhighschool.org admissions@ straymondhighschool.org St. Raymond High School for Boys is a Catholic high school, founded in 1960, offering a college preparatory curriculum which is uniquely designed to meet the needs of all students, encouraging critical thinking, creativity and the ability to relate to the world. St. Raymond offers programs to students of varying academic ability levels, including honors, advanced placement and college credit. In addition to outstanding academics, St. Raymond has always been known for its championship athletic teams, extensive intramural sports program and diverse extra-curricular activities.Enrollment 500;
97% of graduates attend college; Principal Judith Carew; Tuition $7,800 and $570 fees. Virtual Open House: Sunday, October 18 https://bit.ly/3krDT3h
University Prep Public Schools UP High School: 600 St. Ann’s Ave., 4th Floor UP Middle School: 470 Jackson Ave., 3rd Floor 718-292-6543 uppublicSchools.org hsadmissions@ UPpublicschools.org Opening its doors over 10 years ago, University Prep Charter High School (UPCHS) is among the highest performing High Schools in the Bronx. UPCHS is a free, public, 9-12, collegepreparatory school serving 440 students in the Mott Haven neighborhood of the South Bronx. They boast an average 99% four-year graduation rate, 100% college acceptance rate, and a 98% parent approval rating. UPCHS is a proud recipient of the 2016 National Blue Ribbon Award and is consistently ranked among the top performing high schools in New York State. University Prep has expanded their locus of impact to grades 5-8 with the opening of University Prep Middle School last fall. At UPCMS they are extending their highly successful model and providing a path for younger students to reach even more impressive heights by 12th grade.
WHERE YOUR FUTURE BEGINS! AP, Honors, Regents, Portfolio Assessments Internships & Mentoring • Clubs & Activities NEW state-of-the-art STREAM Center For more information contact Gina Nieves
Clowns • Characters Face Painting • Balloon Art • Magic Games • Cotton Candy • Popcorn
TACHS #214
Party Room available for Birthday & Baby Shower Celebrations!
gnieves@stbarnabashigh.com or call 718-325-8800 x20
Saint Barnabas High School 425 East 240 Street – Bronx, NY 10470
www.stbarnabashigh.com
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Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
Paint Nites for Adults & Kids too! Call (917) 579-0867 to book your party today! /ConfettiPartyPlace /ConfettiPartyPlace 3190 Westchester Avenue, Bronx, New York 10461
CARDINAL SPELLMAN HIGH SCHOOL
Where Boys and Girls with Dreams, Become Men and Women of Vision.
VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE CARDINALSPELLMAN.ORG TACHS CODE 303
100% GRADUATION RATE I 100% COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE RATE 30+ SPORTS TEAMS I 50+ CLUBS I COLLEGE CREDIT, ADVANCED PLACEMENT, REGENTS, HONORS & ELECTIVE COURSES CARDINAL SPELLMAN HIGH SCHOOL One Cardinal Spellman Place, Bronx NY 10466
@SPELLMANBX
718-881-8000 x 206 I Fax (718)515-6615
October 2020 | Bronx/Westchester Family
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books
Fall Books for Kids Your go-to round-up of the latest releases By Mia SalaS
L
ooking to sneak in some extra fall reading in between remote and in-person classes? Maybe you want your kiddos to brush up on their reading skills? Well, we have the go-to fall reading list for you! We scoped out the latest in children’s books to round up new releases (and some throwbacks) for all reading levels, from early readers to young adults. We’re really loving some of the reads centered around diversity & inclusion, and we were sure to include a lot in our guide to fall reading. Browse our list and start reading with your kiddos! Early Readers (Preschool – 1st Grade)
There’s an Alien in Your Book by Tom Fletcher, illustrated by Greg Abbott
We’re obsessed with this picture book that was just released in late June. For little ones who just can’t seem to sit still to read a whole book (classic kiddos!), this story is interactive. Little readers have to jiggle, bounce, and turn their book around as they try to launch Alien back up into space. You may remember Fletcher’s There’s A Superhero in Your Book, There’s an Elf in Your Book, or many more, so this latest release is an addition to his engaging series. I Am Every Good Thing by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James
This is a must-read for your preschoolers. This confident Black narrator is proud of who he is, and he
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perfect for all reading levels
encourages young readers to take the time to understand the people around them. What we love about this book is that your little ones will not only see someone who knows who he is, what he wants, and what he can accomplish, but they’ll also see someone who is often misunderstood. We highly recommend this timely children’s book this fall. The Tiny Chef by Rachel Larson, Adam Reid, and Ozi Akturk
From the creators of The Tiny Chef Show comes their debut children’s book about the Tiny Chef who misplaces his favorite recipe book. How could he possibly whip up the best creations without his recipes? After looking for it for a while, Tiny Chef decides to go for a walk, and suddenly he has an idea for a new recipe. Your kiddos will love the Tiny Chef illustrations, and they’ll take away a message about perseverance, creativity, and confidence. She Persisted in Sports by Chelsea Clinton, illustrated by Alexandra Boiger
This is our top pick for your little girl. An inspiring story about women in sports, your young girls will feel a sense of empowerment as they read about some of the greatest female athletes of all time. While we’ve come a long way, women have constantly been told that they can’t achieve their dreams. In this third She Persisted book, Clinton tackles the challenges that women athletes have overcome, just in time for the Olympics!
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
Will You Be My Friend? by Sam McBratney, illustrated by Anita Jeram
Remember Guess How Much I Love You, written twenty-five years ago? Well we now have a sequel to this popular children’s book! Little Nutbrown Hare finds a new friend while he’s out on one of his adventures. Young readers will follow this heartwarming story of friendship, and maybe even learn something about how to be a great friend in their lives. We recommend pairing this with Guess How Much I Love You if your little one hasn’t read it yet! On sale September 29, so this is the perfect October read to look forward to. Just Like Me by Vanessa BrantleyNewton
We’re crazy about this collection of poetry and illustrations filled with stories about all kinds of girls: girls who feel happy, sad, scared, powerful; girls who love their bodies and girls who don’t; country girls, city girls; girls who love their mother and girls who wish they had a father. This book explores self-esteem, positivity, diversity and inclusion, and so much more. The artwork is absolutely beautiful, and your little ones will definitely appreciate a glimpse into poetry, art, and the power that this form of writing can have. First Chapter Books (Grades 1 – 3) Absolutely Alfie and the Furry, Purry Secret by Sally Warner, illustrated by Shearry Malone
If you were a fan of the Judy Moody books, then we highly recommend this debut children’s chapter book for your kiddos. A story of a bossy friend and her kittens that Alfie becomes very obsessed with, we’re loving the humor and lessons of friendship that this book has. But be careful— your kiddo may start asking for a kitten after they’re done with this read! Or they may just want to get their hands on the next book in the series: Absolutely Alfie and the First Week Friends. Dory Fantasmagory: Tiny Tough by Abby Hanlon
If you’ve been following this super popular series, then your kiddos will be very excited to know that the fifth book is coming out this fall on September 8! Dory thinks
that her sister’s lost treasure (a friendship bracelet) has something to do with pirates, so she heads to the sea to meet up with a pirate crew. This is a great introduction to chapter books, full of imagination, adventure, and much more!
never get to travel anywhere, but the fair unlocks a ton of possibilities. The series is inspired by the life of 11-year old viral sensation and social activist Sarai Gonzalez. We’re here for the Latinx representation in children’s first chapter books!
Sarai and the Around the World Fair by Sarai Gonzalez, illustrated by Monica Brown
The 17th book in the Dragon Masters series is finally here this fall on October 6! The series is a part of Scholastic’s early chapter book line with easy-to-read text, illustrations, and a super engaging plot. In this book, the Dragon Masters have to stop an evil wizard from becoming the most powerful wizard in the world. For your adventure-loving kiddos, this book is just for them.
In the fourth and latest book in the series, Sarai goes to her school’s first Around the World Fair. After she outgrows her bike, she worries that she’ll
Fortress of the Stone Dragon, by Tracey West, illustrated by Matt Loveridge
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books
Upper-Level Chapter Books (Grades 4 – 6) Brave. Black. First. by Cheryl Hudson, illustrated by Erin K. Robinson
Published in collaboration with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, this is a must-read for the fall! Your kiddo will read the stories of over 50 incredible African American women, like Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Serena Williams, Michelle Obama, and many more. A book of inspiration, bravery, and heroism, we 100% recommend this for your daughters (and sons!) in middle school or late elementary school. The Lonely Heart of Maybelle Lane by Kate O’Shaughnessy
Your middle schooler is sure to binge-read this book in one day! Maybelle loves sounds and music, especially the recording she has of her dad’s laugh saved in a voicemail. Then one day, she hears his laugh on the radio, and he announces that he’s going to be a judge for a singing contest in Nashville. Maybelle decides to take a trip to Nashville to compete in the contest and meet her dad in person. Along the way, Maybelle finds courage and true friends in her journey to Nashville.
Orange for the Sunsets by Tina Athaide
When Idi Amin announces that Indians have ninety days to leave the country, suddenly Asha and her best friend Yesofu are forced to confront their different backgrounds: Indian and African. As tensions between Indians and Africans rise, the friends are torn apart between family, friends, and society. Living under Ugandan President Amin’s divisive rule, they must consider where and who they call home. This upper level chapter book is such a powerful read that will introduce your kids to diverse perspectives. Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga
A heartwarming story about losing, but then rediscovering home, Other Words for Home is one of our top picks for upper level chapter books. A young girl has to leave Syria to move to America with her mom as things in her hometown start to get volatile. At first, Jude struggles with the cultural differences and her new label of “Middle Eastern”, an identity she’s never known before. But soon Jude finds family and friends in America, and along the way she also finds herself. Both a New York Times Bestseller and Newbery Honor Book, this story will teach your tweens a lot about multiculturalism, diversity and inclusion, and what it means to empathize with someone else’s experience.
Wink by Rob Harrell
For your kiddos who are nervous about starting middle school or moving up a grade, this story will give them a new perspective that will calm their nerves and encourage empathy. A seventh grader is diagnosed with eye cancer, and all he wants is to live a normal life. He doesn’t want to be called “the cancer kid” or have to wear a hat to cover up his hair loss. Both heartbreaking and hilarious, uplifting and unforgettable, this novel is based off of the author’s real experience, making it personal and moving for your middle schooler.
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Young Adult (Grades 7 – 10) Smile Like You Mean It by Willow Hadley
After Charlotte’s father died, her mother changed. One night after an incident with her mother, Charlotte is arrested and taken to juvie. When Charlotte is released, her uncle surprises her and takes her home, where she meets his step-son who is her age and has four best friends who are all so welcoming. As Charlotte deals with anxiety and her troubled past, she also learns to let people in, and she grows close to the group. Just released this
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
summer in late August, we really like this story of overcoming challenges for teens and young adults. Good Talk by Mira Jacob
We really recommend this book for both young adults and adults, but it can especially have an effect on teens who are still learning, absorbing, and discovering who they are. This is a unique read because it’s a graphic memoir told through conversations. The story takes readers through key moments in America’s history, like 9-11, Obama’s presidency, and the 2016 presidential election. Through it all, Jacob tries to explain to her mixed race, six-year-old son what it all means, and he has a lot of questions. This memoir tackles racism in America, interracial families, American identity, and much more as Jacob reflects on her own childhood and how she learned the answers to some of her son’s questions. The Gravity of Us by Phil Stamper
When Cal’s father is selected for a highly publicized NASA mission to Mars, Cal and his family move to Houston from Brooklyn, where Cal meets (and falls in love with) another “Astrokid,” Leon. But when secrets about the program surface, Cal tries to reveal the truth without hurting the people closest to him. Stamper explores self-doubt, first love, and identity in this young adult novel. We love the LGBTQ+ representation in literature for teens! This is All Your Fault by Aminah Mae Safi
Coming out on October 13, 2020, we are patiently waiting for this fall read to print! Set over the course of one day, the story follows three young women determined to save their indie bookstore. We’re all about this feminist young adult novel, perfect for kids in grades 7 through 9 who are looking for a story of empowerment (and a transition from the “kiddy” books they’ve grown out of).
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Power Mom Kimberly Seals Allers on fighting to lower Black and brown maternal mortality rates
By Donna Duarte-LaDD
K
imberly Seals Allers is that human. She speaks truth to power and is the mother that women and, more importantly, Black and Latina mothers have in their corner. A former editor of Essence and writer at Fortune, she is also an award-winning journalist, author, international speaker, strategist, and, most importantly, an advocate for maternal and infant health. Kimberly is fighting for racial equity in birth and breastfeeding and to end the unconscionably high Black maternal mortality rates. Something that is much needed in New York. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand stated last year, “Over the past decade, New York State has experienced a 60 percent increase in maternal mortality. According to the NYS Department of Health, the rate of maternal deaths in New York City has risen from 18.7 per 100,000 live births in 2007 to 31 per 100,000 live births in 2015. Racial disparities are also very evident, particularly in New York City, where more than half of all births in the state take place. In New York City, Black women are estimated to be up to 12 times more likely to die during pregnancy and childbirth than white women and are three times more likely to suffer from life-threatening complications according to a 2018 study.” As we have seen with the recent deaths of Bronx mother Amber Rose Issac and new mother Sha-Asia Washington from Brooklyn, this is startlingly true and downright frightening. Kimberly Seals Allers knows this needs to change. To empower Black and brown mothers before they go to a hospital, she developed an app called Irth — as in Birth but without the B for bias — where mothers of color can share their experiences of care, and pregnant women and new moms can find a hospital or doctor review from a fellow mother who is like them. We chatted with Kimberly on the state of Black and brown mothers and why the Irth app matters.
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“Imagine knowing that other people who didn’t look like you were raving about a place that treated you so disrespectfully.” When I heard you speak at a past mom summit you shared that your own personal birth experience led you to create the concept for the Irth app, can you share how this experience changed your life? When I gave birth to my first child, just as I was completing my Masters degree at Columbia University and, I was anxious and elated. During my pregnancy, I asked many colleagues and girlfriends with children, most of whom were white, where to give birth. I read all the rankings list and listened to their glowing experiences and I went exactly where they recommended. While they walked out of the same hospital raving about their care, I left feeling traumatized. I had a C-section I still can’t fully explain, my baby was given infant formula despite my explicit direction that I was breastfeeding, I had to fight and cry to have my baby with me in my room. They could not believe the things that I experienced. It was as if I was at a completely different place. However, the truth was that at that time of my life, I was not yet married and I was still on student health insurance. And I was treated like an unwed Black woman with basic coverage. I felt that, I lived
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
that. Imagine having such high expectations for your childbirth experience and then having a starkly different experience. Imagine knowing that other people who didn’t look like you were raving about a place that treated you so disrespectfully. That experience always stayed with me — because it was clear that people are not being treated the same way even at the same place. Although these women were my “peers” in many ways — we attended the same college or worked at the same companies — based on my life circumstances at that time — they were not the best sources for referrals or reviews. I wish I could have found a review from someone actually like me — race, socioeconomics, relationship status — all of it. That’s the key problem Irth seeks to solve — giving you reviews from someone like you. Amber Rose Issac and Sha-Asia Washington’s deaths from complications of childbirth has brought to light the crisis that Black and Latina women face in childbirth in New York City. Why are Black and Latina mothers more likely to have complications in childbirth than white women? All women can face complications after childbirth — but Black and Latina women disproportionately die from those complications — this is the problem. Often and especially in the case of Amber Rose and Sha-Asia — both had expressed that their concerns were being ignored. Complaints about their health were ignored, concern about pain was ignored — these are common threads in many experiences of Black and Latina women and sadly they too often lead to a preventable death. The New York State Task Force on Maternal Mortality and Disparate Racial Outcomes has directly linked racism and implicit and explicit bias to New York’s rising maternal mortality and morbidity rates. The fact is that despite socio-economic status
and access to prenatal care, these disparities still exist. We can look at the harrowing story of Serena Williams’ near-death experience during childbirth to know that income and celebrity status do not prevent disrespectful, dismissive or poor care. Secondly, many of the complications are due to how we birth. Black women have some of the highest rates of C-sections. According to studies, Black women are more likely to be given cesarean sections than other races, even in low-risk pregnancies. (In 2018, over 30% of Black women with low-risk pregnancies delivered via C-section, compared to under 25% of white women.) And a 2008 review found a race-based discrepancy in C-section rates that persisted even after adjusting for the fact that Black people are more likely to have preexisting conditions that might necessitate the procedure. C-sections are indeed at times necessary, but they are risky and increase the chance of hemorrhage, surgical errors and other post-operative complications — this is often what kills Black and Latina women. Also we can’t ignore the fact that the medical system is actually rooted in racism. In my first book, The Mocha Manual to Fabulous Pregnancy, a guidebook for Black women, I wrote: “Just being a Black woman places you at a higher risk of poor birth outcomes...and at the root of it are the stresses of racism and the biased treatment you may receive.” That was in 2006 — and sadly, not much has changed. According to the CDC and many other agencies, 60% or more of childbirth-related deaths are preventable. Recently in NYC, a statue of Dr. Marion Sims was taken down in Central Park. Dr. Sims was known as the “Father of Gynecology” but most of his studies were performed on enslaved Black women — without their permission and often without anesthesia. Then there’s Henrietta Lacks and her cells and the history of eugenics — throughout history Black women’s bodies have been disrespected and mistreated by the medical establishment and sadly there is more work to be done.
Yumi Matsuo
How and why did you develop the Irth app? In my past eight years of experience working on the ground developing community engagement strategies and community-led interventions to improve birth and breastfeeding outcomes across the U.S. — one thing was clear: far too many Black and brown women had a story. Of mistreatment, or neglect or dismissiveness — those were the ones that lived to share their story. Or they knew a friend or family member who died in childbirth.
October 2020 | Bronx/Westchester Family
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Countless scientific studies have also documented the problem of provider bias with one landmark study showing doctors giving different treatment options for hypothetical Black patients than for hypothetical white patients presenting the same symptoms. Right now, hospitals are primarily addressing this problem with an anti-bias or cultural competency training. This is an important start. However, these trainings lack public accountability. Nobody is checking or publicly tracking these hospitals to see if the patient experience of care is actually being impacted positively, negatively or not at all. Meanwhile, these one-size-fits-allproviders trainings that focus on the individual, don’t have the granular details of what exactly are the spectrum of experiences that leave Black and brown birthing people feeling traumatized. Plus, they call it unconscious bias for a reason. It often occurs unconsciously, so we must detail what is perceived as an experience of bias to better inform these efforts. We can’t change what we don’t see or know about.
Kimberly Seals Allers with her children, Michael-Jaden and Kayla.
How does the Irth app work and what has been its impact? As a consumer tool, when Irth launches nationwide in early November, it will be a Yelp-like review and rating platform for physicians and hospitals that helps Black women and birthing people of color find providers with good reviews from people just like them. Irth captures prenatal, birthing, post-partum and pediatric visits for up to one year to offer a new lens for looking at experiences of bias across the maternity and infant care continuum. You can leave a review to inform others or you can search for reviews and filter it by race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identification, income and etc. — to find reviews from people just like you. Irth empowers a low income Black woman or a Latina same sex couple with information they’ve never had before to find a real-time, peer-reviewed and trusted provider—a known factor in improving patient compliance & behavior change. On the back end , Irth creates the first ever national repository of experiences of care among marginalized groups. We know these experiences are everywhere — from New York City to Detroit to California. This new data set will be used to provide critical patient reported insights to hospitals, that can reveal and detect blind spots, specific behaviors in care & identify specific trends in experiences of bias. We can then work directly with
hospitals to create more respectful, culturally responsive care. Thus, Irth becomes an innovative tool to advance equity in quality improvement measures. Through our preliminary data we have already been able to identify trends in hospital care and we are starting to share that information with hospitals and providers. This is critical! Hospitals can’t change what they can’t see — and having an intellectual, 90-minute training about bias for healthcare professionals versus literally seeing actual experiences of patients and what was perceived as disrespectful, uncomfortable or traumatizing is an important piece in addressing the Black maternal mortality and morbidity crisis. There is also great momentum with Maternal Mortality Review Committees (MMRCs), but these efforts look to address the problem “from the grave” — Irth gives front end insights so we can prevent death by identifying the behaviors that lead to neglect. Also, although the app is “Yelp-like” — Irth is not a free form commenting space. You have to literally identify what happened that you perceived as bias — was it lack of eye contact? Dismissiveness about pain levels? A rude comment? Lack of receiving a diagnostic test in a timely fashion? We already have about 20 frequently reported experiences that we keep adding to as women share reviews--so we are literally decoding bias to
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Greg Scaffidi Photography
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
provide specific information to providers and institutions. You can’t change what you can’t see! This is the most important part of how Irth will be a game changer. What resources if any can a Black and brown mother with limited financial resources find available to support her post birth? In NYC, the Health Department has a number of prenatal and postpartum resources including low or no-cost community doulas, who also support families postpartum. For example, Healthy Start Brooklyn offers the By My Side Doula program, the Healthy Women, Healthy Futures program and other city-wide resources include Ancient Song Doula services in Brooklyn. There are also a number of amazing online resources such as The Black Mamas Guide by Mamatoto Village and of course, my Mini Mocha Manual to Pregnancy and Childbirth ebook on Amazon and don’t underestimate the power of social media to find support. However, we must make sure doulas are paid a living wage and out of hospital births at childbirth centers become more of a standard option for New York birthing people. The SaveARose Foundation, started by Amber Isaac’s partner, is currently raising funds to bring a childbirth center to the Bronx.
October 2020 | Bronx/Westchester Family
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family day out
Fall Pumpkin Patches! Nothing says “autumn” quite like a day spent at a farm
W
hile COVID is changing how we enjoy some of our fall activities, there are open farms (yay!) with pumpkin patches full of gourds to take home. While most, if not all, are practicing social distancing rules, we suggest that you check the site and Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook pages of the farm you wish to visit before you head out. Some farms are requiring reservations while others are not, and all are requiring masks. While this year is different, there are still beautiful spots to enjoy with the beauty that fall brings. Barton Orchards Weekends are fun at Barton Orchards. Visit the Haunted House, Fun Park, and corn maze. There are hayrides, live music, and amusements for the entire family. Pick-your-own apples and pumpkins plus a country store and The Tap Room are on-site. Admission is free Monday through Friday. Weekends $15 admission. Also, Tree Top Adventures open from 11 am to 3 pm daily for ages 7 and up at $39.95 per person. Reserve your time slot on their website. Barton Orchards, 63 Apple Tree Ln., Poughquag. 845-227-2306. staging. tangibleagency.com/barton
Fishkill Farms The Pumpkin Patch is now open. Pumpkins and fresh donuts are available in front of the store. Due to COVID, there have been some changes. Pumpkin reservations are required, but only those who only wish to pick pumpkins. You do not need to make a reservation for pumpkins if you have a reservation for apple picking or plan on apple picking. For those who have apple picking reservations, pumpkins can be picked and paid upon exiting the orchard. The farm encourages those with any questions or feedback to reach out at info@fishkillfarms.com. Fishkill Farms, 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction. 845-897-4377. Fishkillfarms.com. Greig Farm
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You can pick-your-own pumpkins and apples at this Dutchess County farm. The Hudson Valley Farmers’ Market, an on-site grocery store and kitchen. The eatery serves breakfast, lunch, and to-go dinners. Choose from omelets, wraps, fish tacos, pot pies, chili, soups, burgers, a kids menu, and more. Due to COVID, you can order online for curbside pick up and local delivery. Open daily from 9 am to 7 pm. Greig Farm, 227 Pitcher Ln., Red Hook. 845-758-8007. Greigfarm.com. Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard A favorite farm for many New Yorkers, Harvest Moon & Orchard, is not hosting any fall activities this year due to COVID. There is still plenty of fun to be had for the family- currently, pumpkins are available for sale during store hours. The pumpkin patch is open during the week and on Apple picking weekends! Store hours tend to change, and a reservation is required. Note that each reservation ticket allows entry to the orchard for up to four people only. If you bring a party of more than four people, you will need to purchase an extra reservation. Children 10 yrs and under enter free with a purchased ticket. Parking entry for one car only. Vans or buses are not allowed. We strongly advise checking the website and their Instagram page for any changes of hours to the farm. Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard, 130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem. 914-4851210. Harvestmoonfarmandorchard.com. Hurds Family Farm Fall weekends are packed with fun at Hurds Family Farm. You can pick-your-own apples (minimum $8), and pumpkins are priced by size. Free activities include a playground area, hiking trails, a storybook trail, and a Horse Hoop Toss. VIP Activity Wristband $15 includes corn maze with photo challenge game, mini ABC corn maze, air pillow, apple launcher, cow train and hayride, apple obstacle course, rubber duck derby, giant slide on and mountain. Express Wristband, $9, includes hayride and corn maze. Children
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
under 3 are free. Other activities are offered for an additional fee. Currently, you must make a reservation on the weekends to pick apples or pumpkins. Apple bags or activity wristbands for picking must be purchased online before visiting the farm. We advise checking the website for any change of hours. Hurds Family Farm, 2187 State Rte. 32, Modena. 845-883-7825. Hurdsfamilyfarm.com.
Stuart’s Fruit Farm The pumpkin patch is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm; reservations are not required, but social distancing is expected. There is no charge for parking, and the farm does not charge an orchard fee. Farm accepts cash and checks. Stuart’s Fruit Farm, 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs. 914-245-2784. Stuartsfarm.com.
Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm The farm is open for business with some changes due to COVID. The market will be restricted to one-way traffic; customers will enter at the north end of the market and exit at the south end of the market. The Bakery where you can find their delicious pies and cider donuts can be ordered outside the bakery windows. The corn maze is open for now. Face masks are required when entering
the maze, with the exception of children ages two and under. Due to social distancing rules, the farm cannot offer a tractor ride to and from the orchard. All visitors must be able to walk to and from the orchard. The farm is open Wednesdays-Mondays and Closed on Tuesdays. Wilkens Farm, 1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights. 914-245-5111. wilkensfarm. com.
October 2020 | Bronx/Westchester Family
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books
Book Smart Our picks for Fall reading By Hester ABA
F
all is the ultimate reading season, and there has never been a better time to escape from our current reality and curl up with a great book. We’ve rounded up five notable recent and upcoming fiction releases, including the highly-anticipated Cobble Hill by the author of the Gossip Girl series, Cecily von Ziegesar, from a diverse group of authors.
Cobble Hill by Cecily von Ziegesar
If you’re expecting Gossip Girl part deux, adjust your expectations, as in this novel von Ziegesar has exchanged glam, sexy teens for some middle-aged Brooklyn parents going through various life crises. Fun and fluffy, this is not, but if you’re looking to get lost in someone else’s problems and savor the Cobble Hill setting, pre-order this. Out November 10. When No One is Watching by Alyssa Cole
In the historically Black fictional Brooklyn neighborhood where heroine Sydney Green lives, gentrification is on the rise. But when Sydney’s Black neighbors start going missing at an alarming speed, she starts to suspect something more sinister is happening. Billed as Rear Window meets Get Out, this book is filled with suspense, social commentary and a wonderfully drawn female lead. The Year of the Witching by Alexis Henderson
There’s nothing like a spooky read in October, and The Year of the Witching is a great novel to dive into! The story follows Immanuelle, a young woman living in Bethel, a deeply puritanical town led by a Prophet. When Immanuelle accidentally gets lost in the nearby forest, she discovers the secret of her past as well as four witches who call down plagues upon Bethel. Can Immanuelle step into her power in time to save her family, and Bethel? Light a candle, and get ready to hide under the covers. The Death of Vivek Oji by Akwaeke Emezi
The Death of Vivek Oji is a book to reach for if you want a really thought-provoking read
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Hester Aba
this month. Written by a non-gender-binary author, set in Nigeria, the story begins with the unexplained death of the title character, Vivek Oji, a troubled young trans woman (though this book avoids such labels). Their naked body is left at their parents’ door on the day the market burns down. Kavita, Vivek’s mother, and Osita, their cousin and lover, work through their grief and try to understand what happened, and what power they might have had to change things. The Grace Year by Kim Liggett
The Grace Year is The Handmaid’s Tale meets Lord of the Flies with a dollop of The Hunger Games. Set in a dystopian world where upon reaching the age of 16, girls are sent away for a year to live as a group on a remote island.
Bronx/Westchester Family | October 2020
The girls must figure out how to survive the elements, lack of food and being hunted by poachers, but their greatest threat is each other. If you’re a fan of dystopian fiction, you’ll really enjoy this (if you can overlook the slightly unnecessary and vaguely disturbing love affair that skirts this book close to YA territory). Hester Aba is an Editor, Creative Director, and Mama to two girls. She is also the Founder of Delilah Creative, a creative agency. Hester loves to partner with brands and publications in the parenting and lifestyle spheres and, most recently, held the role of Publisher for New York Family Magazine. You can peep Hester’s work and creative portfolio at hester.co or get in touch by emailing hesteraba@gmail.com
Middle & High School Students:
Win $500!
Your Voice, Your Viewpoint: An Open Call For Students To Speak Out As our city has been through many challenges these last few months we know that one issue that is relevant and part of so many kids lives is racism. And we want you to be heard, really! We want middle school to high school students to submit their stories to us. So whether this is in a story, video, or Tik Tok, share your viewpoint or experience with racism. You have until October 30th, midnight to enter your voice, viewpoint to Schneps Media.
Students can either choose from the following prompts or choose to submit work beyond the prompts, but still related to the overall goal of sharing YOUR VOICE AND YOUR VIEWPOINT. • I experienced racism when… • I’ve fought against racism by… • I was racially profiled when… • My first experience with racism was when…
Submit virtual or written entries limited to 250 words either by email or by using the hashtag #YourVoiceYourViewpoint on social media including: Instagram or TikTok. Video entries can be emailed to YourVoiceYourViewpoint@schnepsmedia.com. Please include your name, age, and school with entries. Submissions will be published in Schneps Media’s multiple platforms of print, digital, and broadcasting. 3 middle school students and 3 high school students will each be awarded a prize of $500 by a panel of Queensborough Community College students. Submissions will be accepted through Friday, Oct. 30, and winners of the prize will be announced on Friday, Nov. 6. For additional information please call 718-260-2500. Thank you to Claire Friedlander Foundation for providing prizes to Your Voice, Your Viewpoint Schneps Media is the parent company of Brooklyn Paper, Brooklyn Courier Life Newspapers, Queens Courier, Times Ledger Newspapers, Caribbean Life, Bronx Times, El Correo, Ridgewood Times, Long Island Press, New York Family, Noticia, Gay City News.
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