Capital District Parent Pages - January 2020

p

Inside:

January calendar The triplets turnlistings 12

arent pages

Capital District

Volume 24 • Number 01 • JANUARY 2020 • Complimentary

The triplets turn 12

The Resource for Parents

Welcoming your adopted child

Picture your child here See details inside

Cozy winter reads cdparentpages.com JANUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 1

Your birth experience… your way.

At Burdett Birth Center, we work with you to design a birth experience built around your needs. That’s why we’re thrilled to offer a wide range of healthy and joyful birthing options: • Three hydrotherapy birthing options – including birthing pools • Nitrous oxide as a pain-relief alternative • Outstanding midwives and providers

Call (518) 271-3393 to arrange a tour.

Located on the second floor of Samaritan Hospital in the heart of Troy.

burdettbirthcenter.org | 2215 Burdett Avenue, Suite 200, Troy, NY 12180 | (518) 271-3393 | 111628_4

2 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2020

111328_4

Picture your child on the cover And get a chance to win a stay at Great Escape Lodge and indoor waterpark

Y District.

p Capital District

Editor’s desk

arent pages The Resource for Parents

January 2020 Features Budgeting for baby Before disaster strikes

ou’ve always known your child should be in the pictures, and now is your chance to get his or her photo displayed prominently on the cover of the premier parenting publication in the Capital

8 10-11

Columnists 24-Hour Shift

It is our mission to run photos of local kids being their awesome selves each and every month, and we need your help. We are looking for high-resolution portraits and candids.

Triple Threat

Covers are planned out far in advance, so we will be accepting photos featuring all of the seasons. Choose pictures that aren’t too busy and feature your child’s face prominently. We are looking for images that can be enlarged to 8-by-10 inches and still show a sharp resolution. Please keep in mind that an image may look sharp on your cellphone but may not be usable at a larger size. We will accept up to three pictures per family.

4 6-7

Let’s Cook!

9

What’s new On the Bookshelf

5

Email your submissions to robertsk@spotlightnews.com with “Parent Pages cover contest” in the subject line. Please include your child’s name, age and hometown.

Also needed is a current phone number or email where you can be reached. Photos that do not win the drawing may still be used on future covers throughout the year.

Kids Fun Page

The best part? We’ve extended the deadline for submissions to be entered in a drawing for a $200 gift card for Great Escape Lodge and Indoor Water Park. We will be accepting contest entries through Jan. 31.

Calendar 13-18

As always, thanks for reading. Check out our articles and resource listings at www. cdparentpages.com and mail your story ideas and pictures to Capital District Parent Pages, P.O. Box 100, Delmar, NY 12054, or e-mail me at robertsk@spotlightnews.com.

Kristen Roberts Editor, Capital District Parent Pages

t Last year’s contest winner Alejandra of Watervliet!

12

Resources

publisher - John

McIntyre editor - Kristen Roberts advertising sales - Denice Mau art director - David Abbott graphic design - Martha Eriksen Capital District Parent Pages is a unit of Community Media Group LLC. Published monthly. Deadline for advertising and calendar events is the 5th of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates are available on request.

Capital District Parent Pages reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. We do not guarantee any of the information, services or products published in this or any issue. The opinions expressed by the contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this paper. Copyright 2013 by Capital District Parent Pages. No portion of Capital District Parent Pages may be reproduced without written permission from Community Media Group LLC. Rachelle & Lawrence Stallman Founders of Capital District Parent Pages

JANUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 3

The 24-hour shift

parenting is a full-time job

New beginnings take time

D

elivery! No it’s not Amazon. It’s your child!

Whether it’s your forever or your foster child, this is a joyous time for your family.

Congratulations! You’ve fantasized this moment for a long time, and this is where I burst your bubble.

In TV and movies, the child rushes in the person’s arms and thanks them profusely for their kindness. That’s not going to happen to you. If it has, you’ve had a rare experience. With international adoption, there’s going to be jet lag, culture shock and language barriers. There might be eating at 2 in the morning and sleeping during the day.

Foster kids, even infants, will need time to acclimate. Their world might have been vastly different from yours. The trauma from separating from their families alone can cause fear and sadness, in addition to the reason they were placed in care.

ask about visitation.

Make sure your child feels welcome. Show them their room, explain the rules and establish boundaries as soon as possible. Just like you would by any guest in your home, only a bit more important.

Start a routine as soon as possible.

Theresa Davis

Older kids who have moved around a lot may just want to know the rules and just exist in your house. They already know they might not be with you for long. Go slowly and don’t push too far and too soon. Ask as many questions about your kiddo and their family as you can. Find out who your kiddo’s caseworker and lawyer are and

Everyone will be curious about your new family member. Respect your child’s and their birth family’s privacy. No one needs to know personal details, but embrace the fact that they’re with you. Do not make negative comments about their birth family.

Remember, you will never be the only mom or dad in your child’s life. They will always love and miss their birth family no matter what happened. Even if you have a closed, private adoption with no contact with your child’s birth family, they will know they are out there somewhere, and it’s very likely they will find them. It’s an occupational hazard of being an adoptive parent. Rest assured they will come to love and appreciate you too. After all this isn’t the end, but only the beginning

TheDoane DoaneStuart StuartSc S The Theresa Davis is a former early childhood educator and has worked in childcare centers for more than 15 years. She is also an adoptive mother, living and taking care of her family in the Capital District.

familyofoffamilies families aafamily

The Doane Stuart Sch You're invited to our Open The Doane Stuart School The Doane Stuart Sch You're invited to our Open The Doane Stuart School

a the family of families Register on website orjust justdro d a family of families a family of or families Register on the website a family ofAll families are welcome.

You're invited to our Open Ho All are welcome.

The Doane Stuart School The to Doane School You're invited ourStuart Open House!

You're invited to our Open H You're invited to our Open House!

Register on the website or just dropJanuary 22-drop-in!

-6-7:30 6-7:30 PM family of families families aa family of Register on the website or just January 22 PM Register on the website or just drop All are welcome.

Register on the website just drop-in!

For Early Childhood You're invited toor our Open House!- Gra All are welcome.

All are welcome.

You're invited to our Open House!

For Early Childhood - Grad

All are on welcome.

January 6-7:30 PM Register the website or or 22 just drop-in!

Register on the website just drop-in!

199 Washington Ave JanuaryFor 22All 6-7:30 PM All are welcome.

January 22 6-7:30 PM 12 areWashington welcome.

199 AveYork Early Childhood - Grade January 22 6-7:30 PM Rensselaer, New January 22 ---6-7:30 6-7:30 PM 12 For Early Childhood Grade For Early Childhood - Grade January 22 PM Rensselaer, New York 199 Washington Ave For Early Childhood Grade 12 518-465-5222 For Early 199 Childhood Grade 12 For Early Childhood Grade Washington Ave Rensselaer, New12 YorkAve 199-Washington 518-465-5222

199 Washington Ave www.doanestuart.org Rensselaer, NewRensselaer, York Rensselaer, New YorkNew 518-465-5222 199 Washington Ave New York Rensselaer, York 518-465-5222 www.doanestuart.org 518-465-5222 518-465-5222 www.doanestuart.org Rensselaer, New York 518-465-5222 www.doanestuart.org www.doanestuart.org 111336_4 www.doanestuart.org 518-465-5222 www.doanestuart.org www.doanestuart.org

111326_4

199 Washington Ave

4 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2020

On the Bookshelf

Every book is an adventure ‘P Is for Poppadoms!

An Indian Alphabet Book

‘Fix that clock!’

By Kurt Cyrus

By Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha Sehgal; illustrated by Hazel Ito

A rollicking celebration of cooperation and conservation follows the efforts of a busy construction crew that rebuilds a rickety old clock tower that has become a home to wild animals. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

From C for chai to Y for yoga, this fresh alphabet book takes young readers on a spirited journey to discover the people, places, lifestyles, and language of India. Lush illustrations bring to life the beauty and diversity of this vast and vibrant country. Beach Lane Books

‘Odd Dog Out’

By Rob Biddulph A pup who wears a rainbow scarf that contrasts with the pinstriped suits worn by other canines, Odd Dog leaves town amid fears of being too different before arriving in a rainbow-adorned community, where a dog in a cool sweater stands out in exceptional ways.

HarperCollins

IT’S TIME TO START THINKING ABOUT PRESCHOOL AND SUMMER CAMPS FOR 2020!

Come check out The Herman and Libbie Michaelson Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel!

Located right next to St Peter’s Hospital

Temple Israel Nursery School offers: • Care for children 18 months - 5 years • Register for 2 - 5 days per week, Full Day 8:00am - 5:30pm or Half Day 9:00am - 1:00pm • Unique Hebrew immersion program, ages 3 - 5 years • Music, art, gardening, and so much more every day!

• Albany City School District UPK

SUMMER CAMP is right around the corner…

Registration begins March 1 for our 2020 SUMMER CAMP SEASON! Take a tour, learn more, or register by contacting: Amie Bloom, Director • 518 438-7858 x120 amiebloom@tialbany.org • 600 New Scotland Ave, Albany 110511_4

JANUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 5

Triple Threat

parenting triplets in the Capital District

The start of a new year can feel like sitting at the apex of a roller coaster and waiting for the rush of all that’s ahead.

Looking forward with hindsight The Steuer family welcomes 2020 with hope and optimism

H

appy New Year! Welcome to 2020 and all the potential a beginning brings. There are 365 days to make a difference locally, globally and personally.

Each day that comes is a new chance to make better choices. Hopefully, those better choices build on one another and create a wave of feeling better and doing better with the ripples reaching out and bringing the same to our loved ones. Every single day is a chance to make the changes we dream of. Looking at the past and dissecting our lives is looking at things in hindsight. As we all know, hindsight is 20/20, so isn’t this the year to keep moving forward knowing that when we look back we can be proud?

6 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2020

This is the year that my sweet little babies turn 12. I look at baby pictures and school pictures watching them morph into new people with firm opinions about how life should be and how they by are going to make the world a better place.

Listening to their stories and conversations makes me feel old and re-energized at the same time. The plans Harlan and I had when I was pregnant with Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca were such simple dreams! Just remembering how being pregnant with them made me feel makes me smile.

Twelve years is such a long time, and it happens in the blink of an eye.

Jennifer Steuer

Continued on Page 7

n Triple Threat continued from Page 6 Being a mom to three kids is a challenge. Being the mom to 12-yearold triplets is like learning to compromise with people that do not speak the same language. Being a child now is much more complicated than when Harlan and I were 12. We tell Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca what being a ‘tween was like way back when. Recently we were asked if it was the 1880s or 1980s when we grew up! I’m sure we come across as so square and clueless to them. Part of the way Harlan and I grew up helped us see what we wanted in the kids’ futures. By looking back we were able to look forward. We used our childhoods as hindsight and that ability to see 20/20, we were able to decide how we wanted to be as a couple, parents and as a family.

The world has changed in the last 33 years. Now, kids don’t wonder the streets looking for friends and something to do, or play physical sports in the real world. The virtual world is now the “real” world for kids to navigate. Books were for reading and looking up answers. A dictionary and thesaurus sat on the shelf near where homework was done. Almost everyone I knew had an encyclopedia. A card catalog was for doing research work at the library. Now, a touch screen cell phone can have overwhelming and not always appropriate information dumped at your child’s fingertips. Now, any question can be answered by Siri, Cortana, Alexa, Google or Wikipedia. Knowledge is instantaneous. Asking Harlan and me is not necessary. Right now I feel like I’ve lost part of that connection with the kids. Mom and Dad are superfluous.

Sitting here at the tip-top of the January 2020 roller coaster, I have this tingle that can only be … hope. As the new calendar is tacked to the bulletin board and the old is slipped into a recycling bin, I pray that 2020 brings mostly good things. Part of having the gift of hindsight is being able to see mistakes and realize that there are ways to make better choices.

I will use this gift to be a better mom for Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca.

Each new choice and new path will lead me to be a better mom and wife I lead me to also be better to myself.

Keeping the momentum going is a great way to keeping spreading the possibility of a better world for all of us. Looking forward to 2020 with 20/20 vision will make for a happier environment for everyone. I believe in Olivia. I believe in Rebecca. I believe in Benjamin. I believe that my favorite 12 year olds are going to leave their marks this year. My heart is so full of love for my children. They tell me better times are coming and I believe them. Their unbridled optimism is contagious. This will be the best year ever!

Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom whose busy household includes her husband, Harlan, and 12-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca.

Follow her on Instagram: jennifersteuer.

The world has changed in the last 33 years. ... Now, any question can be answered by Siri, Cortana, Alexa, Google or Wikipedia. Knowledge is instantaneous. Asking Harlan and me is not necessary. Right now I feel like I’ve lost part of that connection with the kids. Mom and Dad are superfluous.

JANUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 7

Babies bring financial changes

F

inancial changes are a fact of life, and one of the biggest financial changes occurs when starting a family.

range from $3,000 to upward of $37,000 per child for a normal vaginal delivery, and from $8,000 to $70,000 if a Csection or special care is needed.

Consider how much your health insurance will cover and how much adding a child to a policy will increase your rates.

Starting a family can come with a measure of sticker shock, particularly for young couples without much financial history.

Since the 1960s, the costs associated with raising a family have risen exponentially. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says that today American parents spent, on average, more than $245,000 on child costs from birth until the age of 17.

When mulling the cost of starting a family, prospective parents should ask themselves the following questions to get a handle on their finances.

Can I afford big-ticket baby items related to safety and comfort? Items may include a new vehicle with high crash-test ratings, or renovations to a home to

Will I need daycare? In order to afford added expenses, both parents may have to work.

BabyCenter.com estimates that a family’s average childcare costs are roughly $755 per month.

Can I afford life insurance?

When mulling the cost of starting a family, prospective parents should first Once you begin a family it is important for both parents to get a handle on their finances. provide a safe nursery. If renovations are unlikely, then would-be parents may need to consider the costs of moving.

Have I considered daily child expenses? Diapers, formula, laundry detergent, clothing for each

Words Are Powerful.

1 in 6 children face hunger.

Use Yours to Help Stop Bullying.

Bullying can make kids feel isolated, sad and hopeless, but a kind word or gesture from a classmate can make a world of difference. Help fight bullying by setting an example of kindness and caring with your words and actions at home, and encouraging your child to do the same at school.

8 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2020

arent ppages

A reminder from: Capital District

Friendship.

Kindness.

Respect.

Compassion.

have a life insurance policy in stage of growth, and various other place to provide for surviving items are necessary when raising family members in the event of a child. Make a list of such items an untimely death. and their potential costs.

Couples who want to start a Do I have adequate health family can make the transition insurance? Pew Research states go smoothly by figuring out their that expenses for a delivery can finances first.

The Resource for Parents

www.parentpages.com

There’s more than enough food in America for every child who struggles with hunger. Help get kids the food they need by supporting Feeding America, the nationwide network of food banks. Together, we can solve hunger™.

Join us at FeedingAmerica.org

Let’s Cook!

Jodie Fitz

Smooth take on PB & J

P

eanut butter and jelly sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food. Easy to make, nourishing and tasty, this classic combination is hard to improve upon, but if you want to mix things up a little, try this twist on the combo and enjoy your PB&J in a glass!

WHO ACTUALLY DO.

SCAP Early Head Start Child Care Partnerships (EHS-CCP)

This smoothie makes a convenient and filling breakfast or after-school snack.

THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE

We are a FREE Infant Toddler Program for families who qualify and live in Schenectady County.

WHO THINK

Get more recipes from Jodie through the Price Chopper Cooking Club at www.pricechopper. com. To learn more about her, visit www.jodiefitz.com.

THEY HAVE THEIR CHILD IN THE RIGHT SEAT.

We provide: • Free diapers and formula • Nutritious meals and snacks • Family support services • Developmental screenings • Special Education Services (Speech, OT, PT) • Assistance getting health services • Nurturing learning environment

PB & J Smoothie

KNOW FOR SURE

IF YOUR CHILD IS IN THE RIGHT CAR SEAT.

Give us a call today.

VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/THERIGHTSEAT

111634_4

by

CHOOSE CAR SEAT:

BY AGE & SIZE

THE ONES

518.377.2015

920 Albany St. • Schenectady AGX-2A001D 3.5x10 4CMG.indd Version Paper Proof# Line Screen Edit Round Print/Export Printed at: Galley: PDF Sent To:

AGX-2A001D AD COUNCIL “NHTSA Pencil” Non-Bleed: 3.5” x 10” 4/C Magazine Thin Vertical Line Screen: 133 Pubs: Various Insertion Date: 2012

Initials

HI-RES IN PLACE Fortune Gloss .

133 4 4-4-2012 1:38 PM 100% 1

Studio Manager Proofreader Art Director Copywriter Creative Director Production Manager Account Executive Client

S. Gordon Henry N. Chambers S. Lundberg None J. Adler-Kerekes S. Pollitt Ad Council

Date

This Advertisement Created by

Fonts: None Placed Images: Pencil 3.5x10_nc.ai (Up to Date; 100.15%)

Notes: None

2 cups fresh strawberries 2 cups ice 1 cup milk ¼ cup peanut butter 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Rinse and hull the strawberries Add the prepared strawberries, ice, milk, peanut butter, honey and vanilla extract into the blender.

Blend well and serve.

Peanut Allergy Alternatives: Swap the peanut butter for WOWButter.

Dairy Free: Try making this recipe with either rice milk or almond milk. Rice milk actually has very little taste when mixed in a smoothie and allows the strawberry and peanut butter flavors to shine.

DKI Acting Academy is for teens who want to expand their skills in acting, public speaking, and performing, while building confidence and creativity.

And that foundation can have a dramatic impact on academic, personal and professional success.

Enroll today!

www.dramakids.com

www.dramakids.com (518) 458-1313

(518) 458-1313

111329_4

JANUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 9

Ready to reach D

Be calm before the storm and create a disaster communicati so your family won’t waste valuable time getting in touch with o

uring times of natural disaster, chaos can quickly set in.

Family members can spend hours, if not days, trying to get in touch with loved ones to determine if everyone is all right. But you can plan ahead to make it easier to communicate with family during a natural disaster, and the best time to put everything into place is before disaster strikes.

There’s no guarantee that communication networks like mobile phones and computers will be reliable during disasters, when electricity may be interrupted and mobile towers might be compromised. As a result, it’s imperative that people develop communication plans with their families so they can reach

10 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2020

one another in the wake of natural disasters.

Three simple steps can help families get started with their emergency communication plans.

1. Collect all necessary information.

Gather and jot down the names and contact information of all family members, making sure to create a paper copy that will be accessible whether the electricity or mobile tower goes out or not. Include names, phone numbers and addresses of nearby friends and family members, as well as anyone who lives close enough to potentially offer temporary shelter should your home be damaged or pose a threat. Include the names, phone numbers and addresses of medical facilities, doctors, schools or service providers on the list as well.

2. Distribute the copies.

Make copies of your list and distribute them to everyone in your family, including people who do not live close. Faraway relatives can use the list to try to find you should they be unable to communicate with you in the wake of a disaster. Make sure everyone in your home keeps a printed copy of the list on them at all times, whether it’s in a child’s backpack, a purse or wallet. The Federal Emergency Management Agency notes that those who complete their family communication plan online can print their plans onto wallet-sized cards by visiting ready.gov/make-a-plan. Keep a copy of the list in a central location in your home as well, such as on the refrigerator.

3. Practice your plan.

FEMA advises holding regular

h out

ion plan one another

household meetings where families can go over their contact information and practice what to do should they need to communicate with one another during an emergency. Planning is an essential component of disaster preparedness that can save lives and help families find one another in the wake of emergencies.

Did you know?

FEMA recommends that parents of school-aged children familiarize themselves with the emergency response plans established by their schools. Such plans typically include how the school will respond if school is in session during snowstorms or natural disasters, as well as the protocol surrounding lockdown situations where children may be in danger. In such situations, knowledgeable parents who are familiar with emergency response plans and how to communicate with school officials and how those officials will disseminate information to concerned parents can help first responders and educators focus on their responses, which may involve protecting children.

Families can create their emergency communication plans online and print them onto wallet-sized cards at ready.gov/make-a-plan.

Knowledge of these plans also can calm parents’ nerves and reduce the likelihood that school campuses will become chaotic in the wake of potentially dangerous situations, including storms or natural disasters. In addition to learning about schools’ emergency response plans, parents can discuss these plans with their children. Such discussions should emphasize the importance of following educators, instructions during both practice drills and when the plans are implemented in response to disasters or other threats.

JANUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 11

n u F s d i K e g Pa

Get Srambled

12 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2020

CREATIVITY

WORD SEARCH

Coloring Fun

family fun for January

January

Calendar of events How to Do It: Learn to Snowshoe

Pick of the month

Learn the basics of how to put snowshoes on (and take them off), walk, and turn, then go outside to put your new skills to work on a short walk, 10 a.m. Free. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call (518) 475-0291 or visit www.dec.ny.gov/ education/1835.html.

1 Wednesday

Winter Break Family Fun at Thacher Nature Center Through Sunday. Enjoy crafts to make and take home, interactive games and challenges, puppets, puzzles, and more. Or take a hike or snowshoe walk, then warm up with some hot chocolate, drop in 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Thacher Nature Center, 87 Stan Levine Drive, Voorheesville.

For more information, call (518) 872-0800 or visit parks.ny.gov/environment/naturecenters/8/details.aspx.

Snowshoe Hike

First Day Hike or Snowshoe

2 Thursday Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 5-7 p.m. For ages 13 and up. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

3 Friday The Mopco Family Improv Show Interactive, family-friendly improv show that uses audience suggestions and willing volunteers to create stories, characters, and

Monster Jam

Jan.

11-12

Action-packed live event where world class drivers compete in some of the most recognizable trucks in the world, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m.

Sunday. Tickets start at $22. Times Union Center, 51 S. Pearl St., Albany. For more information, visit www.timesunioncenter-albany.com.

Sensory Play Time

songs off the top of our heads in this one, doors open at 9:30 a.m. Tickets are $5 for kids and seniors, and $10 for adults. The Mopco Improv Theatre, 10 N Jay St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 577-6726.

small building pieces may be in use, 1-3 p.m.

Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary. org.

Library Friends Play Time

4 Saturday

Come make new friends! Children ages 12 to 36 months and their parents are invited to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books and puzzles, 9:10 a.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Family Lego Build Stop in and build using the Library’s Legos and Duplos. Adults must supervise children;

Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art studio on Saturdays for drop-in art making based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Museum admission is $6-$10 and free for children under 6. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www. albanyinstitute.org.

We’re online!

Be sure to visit our website…

p

Self-paced activities will allow your child to explore sight, touch, and sound, work on motor skill development, and reinforce cooperative play with others, 10 a.m. For ages 12-36 months accompanied by an adult; older siblings welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

6 Monday Little Lego

Art for All

Capital District

Meet at the Visitor Center for an easy 1.5 mile scenic winter walk into the woods and along the escarpment, and afterwards warm up inside with hot chocolate, 11 a.m.

Thacher State Park, 830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville. Register and reserve snowshoes to rent by calling 518-872-0800. Visit https:// parks.ny.gov/parks/128/details.aspx for more information. In case of extreme weather, call the park office at 518-872-1237 to confirm conditions.

Get started with this fun sport on a 0.9-mile hike on snowshoes exploring the frozen landscape of the pine barrens, 11 a.m.

Snowshoes will be provided to program participants. For ages 6 and up. Program is free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany.

For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Meet in the Story Hour room and let your imagination flow with creative and collaborative play using our Lego collection, 3:30 p.m.

Grades K-3; for younger siblings, we offer Duplo. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www.guilderlandlibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

arent pages The Resource for Parents

cdparentpages.com 111629_4

JANUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 13

Calendar of events

family fun for January

6 Monday (cont.)

7 Tuesday

Musical Storytime

Matt Yeager from Music Together will be offering a music filled morning of rhythm, Build your own fun with Legos, Snap Also Wednesday. Look for signs of animals song, dance and instruments, 10 a.m. For Circuits, K’nex, blocks, puzzles, origami and that live in the Pine Bush and practice identify- children ages 0-4 with parent/caregiver. more, 4 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 ing animals by their tracks, read a book, play a Please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, game, create your own tracks and go on a short Road, Voorheesville For more information, visit call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliwalk, 10 a.m. For kids under 6 and caregivers. www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) clibrary.org.

Program is free, but reservations required.

765-2791.

Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Pre-K Storytime Karner Road, Albany. For more information, Enjoy a special storytime for ages 2-6; no call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinesign-up needed, 11 a.m. Siblings welcome. bush.org.

Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., PJ Story Time Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

A quiet story time for working parents to spend 8 Wednesday with their children, 6:15 • To have your event included in p.m. Children, ages 2-6, Matt’s Music Together along with their families our print edition, email the information, Local teacher Matt Yaeger will offer a free are encouraged to wear demo Music Together class where children and including date, time, place, cost and their pajamas. Clifton caregivers can explore music and movement contact information to robertsk@ Park-Halfmoon Public together through songs, rhymes, fine and spotlightnews.com by the 10th of the Library, 475 Moe Road, gross motor activities and instrument play, Clifton Park. For more 10:30 a.m. Registration required. Guilderpreceding month. Events run space information, call (518) land Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, permitting, and submission does 371-8622 or visit www. Guilderland. For more information, call (518) not guarantee publication. cphlibrary.org.

456-2400 or visit www.guilderlandlibrary.org.

KBA: Kids Builder Association

Pine Bush Pups: Neat Feet

Submit an event

9 Thursday Story Art Enjoy the museum by listening to a story, exploring objects from the teaching collection, and creating a fun art project, 11-11:45 a.m.

Themes will be announced on the day of the program. Free; pick up tickets at the main lobby desk. New York State Museum, 22 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

GPL Adventures: Move It! Run, jump, compete and work together with jump ropes, hula hoops, stretchy bands, and maybe even a parachute! Grades 3-5, 3:30 p.m. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www.guilderlandlibrary.org.

Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 5-7 p.m. For ages 13 and up. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

How CACFP Keeps Kids Healthy

Covers Major Food Groups

Limits Sugars and Starches Exposes Children to New Foods

111333_4

The Child and Adult Care Food Program allows providers to supply children with nutritious food options.

14 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2020

110512 _4

Calendar of events

family fun for January

9 Thursday (cont.)

Library Tots Early literacy program that emphasizes sharing books, flannel board stories, music, rhymes, and playtime together, 10 a.m. For newborns to 30 months with a caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www. voorheesvillelibrary.org.

Open Playtime Little ones from newborn to 30 months can enjoy some open playtime with their parents/caregivers and other babies and toddlers, 10:30 a.m. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org.

10 Friday Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate Afternoon Join your friends to play Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate on the Nintendo Switch! Snacks provided, 3:45 p.m. For ages 9 and up. Bethlehem 7.0 in.

Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For

more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

11 Saturday Concerts for Tots: BASSic Yoga Fun Explore yoga with the double bass with some playful moves and a performance, 9:30 a.m. for caretakers and babies (non-walkers) and 10:30 a.m. for children. No experience necessary. Tickets are $15 with family packages available. The College of Saint Rose Hearst Center, 996 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, visit concertsfortots.com.

Watchable Wildlife: Red Fox Learn about the red fox, an intriguing animal whose tracks traverse the Five Rivers landscape, 10 a.m. Registration required. Free.

Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call (518) 475-0291 or visit www.dec. ny.gov/education/1835.html.

Family Fun: Winter Walk on Old Field Trail Join a naturalist on this easy trail that curves through Five Rivers’ old field habitat,

a protective shelter for animals of all sizes in the winter months and look for signs of wildlife and other winter wonders, 2 p.m. Program is free but snowshoe rentals are $5 for big kids and adults; children’s snowshoes are free. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call (518) 475-0291 or visit www.dec. ny.gov/education/1835.html.

land Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www. guilderlandlibrary.org.

Art for All

Open House: Tri-Village Nursery School Meet the teachers, visit classrooms, and learn more about the preschool community, 10 a.m.-noon. Tri-Village Nursery School, First United Methodist Church, 428 Kenwood Ave, Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-1455.

How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?

Join WMHT’s Barbara Lukas for a fun morning of literacy and crafts based on Jane Yolen’s classic book, “How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?” 10:30 a.m. Grades Pre-K-2.

Children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. Registration required. Guilder-

Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art studio on Saturdays for drop-in art making based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Museum admission is $6-$10 and free for children under 6. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

Family Winter STEAM Enjoy a day of winter-themed STEAM with stations that may include snowman shape matching, playing with snow-dough, making a neat optical illusion called a Thaumatrope, and ice cream making, 10:30-11:45 a.m.

Registration required. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

Want to draw more business online?

It’s too late to know if your child’s in the right car seat when you’re driving.

To advertise on our website, call Denice Mau at 518-439-4949

Fortunately, you’re only reading.

Check us out at:

111631_4

10.0 in.

www.cdparentpages.com

Get the word out!

List your event for parents & children in our monthly calendar Send calendar submissions by the 5th of the previous month to:

safercar.gov/TheRightSeat

111630_4

Car crashes are a leading killer of children 1 to 13. Is your child in the right car seat? Don’t think you know. Know you know.

Capital District Parent Pages, Attn: Calendar, P.O. Box 100, Delmar, N.Y. 12054 or Email: robertsk@spotlightnews.com JANUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 15

Calendar of events 12 Sunday Discover the Pine Bush An extraordinary journey into the Albany Pine Bush – a globally rare, nationally significant and locally distinct inland pine barrens, 10:30 a.m. For all ages. Program is free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany.

For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

14 Tuesday Pine Bush Pups: A Closer Look at Pitch Pine Also Wednesday. Learn all about these important trees and take a short walk to investigate these scraggly pines up close, 10 a.m. For kids under 6 and caregivers. Program is free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 4560655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Toddler Yoga & Music Time Class incorporates songs, musical instruments, and games as an introduction to Yoga, 6-6:30 p.m. For toddler ages 22 months through 3-years-old with caregiver.

Registration required. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org.

Pre-K Storytime Enjoy a special storytime for ages 2-6; no sign-up needed, 11 a.m. Siblings welcome.

Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

PJ Story Time A quiet story time for working parents to spend with their children, 6:15 p.m.

Children, ages 2-6, along with their families are encouraged to wear their pajamas. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

15 Wednesday Open House at Clifton Park Nursery School Bring the kids and tour this cooperative nursery school and find out how you can instill a love of learning in your child that will last a lifetime, 5-7 p.m. Clifton Park Nursery School, 344 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more

information, call (518) 371-5850 or visit www.cliftonparknurseryschool.org.

Pajama-Rama Enjoy some fun and stories before bedtime, 6:30 p.m. For children up to age 6 with caregiver. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

16 Thursday Winter Miniature Diorama Use miniature winter creatures and other tiny objects to create a one-of-a-kind winter diorama seasonal scene. For tweens and teens, 3:30 p.m. Registration required.

Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland, NY 12084. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www.guilderlandlibrary.org.

Library Tots Early literacy program that emphasizes sharing books, flannel board stories, music, rhymes, and playtime together, 10 a.m. For newborns to 30 months with a caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www. voorheesvillelibrary.org.

Open Playtime Little ones from newborn to 30 months can enjoy some open playtime with their parents/caregivers and other babies and toddlers in the Library’s large community room, 10:30 a.m. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org.

Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 5-7 p.m. For ages 13 and up. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

17 Friday Time to Get In Shape Learn about shapes through stories and activities, 10 a.m. Dress for a mess. For children up to age 6 with caregiver. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

W E N Y Y E P AR! P A

Wishing you the best in

2020

From all of us at:

p Capital District

H

family fun for January

arent pages The Resource for Parents

111632_4

16 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2020

11 Saturday (cont.)

Locked in the Library: ‘Warcross’ by Marie Lu Pick up a copy of the book, and stop by for this after-hours teen book club, 6-7:30 p.m.

Dinner will be served. For grades 8 and up.

Registration required. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org.

Dragon Day Read a funny dragon story, do a craft and talk about dragon books, 4 p.m. For ages 7 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

18 Saturday Preschool Fair Stop by the library to meet representatives of preschools in the Colonie area, 9-11 a.m. William K. Sandford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 810-0315 or visit www.colonielibrary.org.

Saturday STEAM: Energy Make dancing snakes, gummy bear catapults and other projects that demonstrate the importance and power of energy, 2 p.m.

For grades 2-5; registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www.guilderlandlibrary.org.

Art for All Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art studio on Saturdays for drop-in art making based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Museum admission is $6-$10 and free for children under 6. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

Lego Day Calling all master builders: Come and create with Lego bricks, 1 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

20 Monday School Break Fun at the Planetarium At “Zoo in the Sky,” meet a lion, bears and other animals of the night sky and after the

Calendar of events show, enjoy an astronomy craft, 11 a.m.; for grades Pre-K-2. At “Wonders of the Universe,” enjoy an interactive program that identifies stars, planets and constellations in the night sky and the tools and techniques for becoming an amateur astronomer, 1 p.m.; for ages 8 and up. Cost is $3 per person. Henry Hudson Planetarium, 25 Quackenbush Square, Albany.

Dr. MLK Jr. Celebration: Troy Children’s Chorus Enjoy the lovely sounds of joy and hope sung by the Troy Children’s Chorus, comprised of children in grades 4-9, 1 p.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

All About Me Listen to stories that inspire children to celebrate what makes them special and then create a collage self-portrait, 10 a.m. For grades K-2. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

p Capital District

family fun for January

arent pages The Resource for Parents

Upcoming Monthly Themes & Deadlines February Children’s Art & Culture Deadline: January 6th

21 Tuesday

March

PJ Story Time A quiet story time for working parents to spend with their children, 6:15 p.m.

Children, ages 2-6, along with their families are encouraged to wear their pajamas. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Pre-K Storytime Enjoy a special storytime for ages 2-6; no sign-up needed, 11 a.m. Siblings welcome.

Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

23 Thursday Pajama-Rama Enjoy some fun and stories before bedtime, 6:30 p.m. For children up to age 6 with caregiver. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Library Tots Early literacy program that emphasizes sharing books, flannel board stories, music, rhymes, and playtime together, 10 a.m. For newborns to 30 months with a caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www. voorheesvillelibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

Kidz Expo All About Babies/ Family Health Deadline: February 3rd

April

Summer Camp Guide (Part 1) Special Needs Deadline: March 2th

May

Summer Camp Guide (Part 2) Mother’s Day The Family Rensselaer County: Parenting Resources Deadline: April 6st

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call

Denice Mau at 518-439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com

111633_4

JANUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 17

Calendar of events

family fun for January

23 Thursday (cont.)

Craft and Sip

Open Playtime

Relax after midterms as you sip on some juice and use the library’s craft materials to create friendship bracelets, fuse bead art and more, 3:30 p.m. For ages 9 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Little ones from newborn to 30 months can enjoy some open playtime with their parents/ caregivers and other babies and toddlers in the Library’s large community room, 10:30 a.m. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville.

Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org.

Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 5-7 p.m. For ages 13 and up. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

24 Friday

Teen Improv Comedy Workshop Learn how to start with funny concepts, characters, situations and punchlines and then put the sketches into action. Some teens will like the writing, others may love the acting, and some will want to do it all, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

For grades 6 and up. Registration required. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org.

The Grand Playdate

Make a Sensory Bottle Create a calming sensory bottle with your child. Children can select some of what goes into the bottle while caregivers handle the more complicated tasks, 10 a.m. For children up to age 6 with caregiver. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Calling all caregiver grandparents! Bring your grandbaby (ages birth-three years) for a special playdate with coffee, snacks, and fun toys for the little ones, 10:30 a.m. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www.guilderlandlibrary.org.

25 Saturday

29 Wednesday

Art for All

Cirque du Soleil: OVO

Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art studio on Saturdays for drop-in art making based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Museum admission is $6-$10 and free for children under 6. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

Also Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Various times. Discover a tiny world teeming with colorful insects, non-stop energy and fantastical acrobatic feats. Tickets start at $29.

Times Union Center, 51 S. Pearl St., Albany. For more information, call (518) 426-4099 or visit www.timesunioncenter-albany.com.

Family Yoga Enjoy practicing yoga together in this playful family yoga and mindfulness class, 10 a.m. For children ages 4 and up accompanied by an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Family STEAM Night: Bird Nests Learn about bird nests, build your own and make a backyard feeder using Cheerios, 6:30 p.m. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

31 Friday

28 Tuesday

Cubes, Cones, Cylinders and Spheres

Pre-K Storytime Enjoy a special storytime for ages 2-6; no sign-up needed, 11 a.m. Siblings welcome.

Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Enjoy stories and an activity to learn more about 3D shapes and why they are special. For children up to age 6 with caregiver, 10 a.m.

Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-4399314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

The Capital District’s Locally-Owned and Produced Parenting Resource

From diapers to diplomas... …and everything in between!

cdparentpages.com 18 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2020

p Capital District

Visit our website at:

arent pages The Resource for Parents

To receive the paper or to advertise, call:

518.439.4940

ALBANY, NEW YORK

Empire State Plaza Ice Rink

Free Skating Daily 12-8pm* Rentals: $4 for adults, $3 for children 12 & under Free Rental Saturdays Courtesy of Hannaford Supermarkets *Please visit empirestateplaza.ny.gov for NEW weekend maintenance hours

Learn to Skate Clinics

Presented by: BlueShield of Northeastern New York Hosted by: Hudson Mohawk Figure Skating Club January 4, February 1, March 7 10am-12pm (Register Online)

Hannaford Kidz Expo Saturday, March 7, 2020 10am-5pm FREE

empirestateplaza.ny.gov 111327_4

JANUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 19

110689_4

20 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2020