Capital District Parent Pages - August 2019 by Spotlight Newspapers

Inside:

Afterschool and enrichment resources Page 15

arent pages

Capital District

Volume 23 • Number 8 • AUGUST 2019 • Complimentary

The Resource for Parents

Chill out with freeze pops Math skills make a better budget Time to bring back school year routine

cdparentpages.com AUGUST 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 1

BIRTHDAY PARTIES Host your child’s next birthday party at the Bizzy Beez! We offer a bright party room and activities that are creative, individually inspired and age appropriate. Birthday Parties are available for children 3 years and older. CLASSES/WORKSHOPS THAT SUPPORT SENSORY STIMULATION: • Stimulating Environment • Led by qualified individuals • Improve Behaviors • Promote Self Confidence and Self Esteem • Classes like Art Therapy, Music Therapy, Play Therapy, etc…

SENSORY CAMPS • Designed to stimulate sensory systems, improve independence and gain confidence • Sensory based fine motor and gross motor games • Promotion of social communication, problem solving, self-awareness and peer interactions

JOIN THE AFTER SCHOOL CLUB! • Safe and supportive after school experiences • Social Interactions and Physical Activities • Structured Activities and Enrichment Classes

Individual/Group Reservations Welcome

BIZZY BEEZ - A SENSORY ADVENTURE Wolf Road Shoppers Park 145 Wolf Road Albany, New York 12205 (518) 438-4800 www.BizzyBeezSensoryAdventures.org 109614_4

Do You Want to Have a Vaginal Birth After a C-Section? Burdett Birth Center may be able to deliver the birthing experience you want. Our highly-experienced team of doctors and midwives offer a range of birthing options, including vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). In 2018, our successful VBAC rate was 72.5 percent, while the rate at a group of comparative hospitals was 65.5 percent.* Please talk to your provider to learn if a VBAC may be an option for you.

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

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

*Burdett Birth Center was compared with a group of hospitals that average close to the same number of deliveries as Burdett Birth Center. For more information, visit www.health.ny.gov.

burdettbirthcenter.org | 2215 Burdett Avenue, Suite 200, Troy, NY 12180 | (518) 271-3393 | 109621_4

2 PARENT PAGES — AUGUST 2019

Savor summer, prepare for fall Getting afterschool options settled now saves you from scrambling in September

he kids are barely out of school when the stores start marking down all the trappings of summer – shorts and swimsuits, pool toys, melamine plates with tropical scenes – to make way for the back-to-school blitz. It’s especially unfair for us New Yorkers, as our kids are typically one of the last ones in the country to be sprung for summer vacation (last ones back, too, which is nice). It can leave you wondering where the summer went even before you are a full two weeks into it. It’s hard not to get caught up in this whirlwind of always preparing for something that is on the horizon rather than being truly present in the here and now. But if you can’t step off that crazy train for just a moment in the summer, when can you? There are still plenty of good reasons to plan ahead for the school year, and for families that need to set up after-school care or enrichment activities, waiting to make arrangements until after the bus pulls up just isn’t going to cut it. That is why we traditionally publish a list of those local providers every August. The list will continue in our September issue. On Page 15, you will find dozens of local organizations that offer preschool and child-care programs, as well as after-school offerings that will keep your child engaged and entertained in a meaningful way when the school day is over.

arent pages

Capital District

Editor’s desk

The Resource for Parents

August 2019 Features Smart school shopping

10-11

Afterschool and enrichment 14-15

Columnists 24-Hour Shift

Let’s Cook!

Triple Threat

Show Money Who’s Boss Learning Center

8-9 12-13

What’s new On the Bookshelf

Kids Fun Page

Resources Calendar

17-22

Even though it can be hard to start thinking about fall when you are still trying to savor your lazy summer days, there’s always enough of a scramble at the end of August and early September that you will be glad to have this part of the puzzle already in place. *** We received so many great portraits and candids of Capital District kids during our contest over the winter, and you can expect to see them on future covers in the coming months. One more thing: You don’t have to wait for a contest to submit a potential cover shot; email them to me anytime at robertsk@spotlightnews.com. Also feel free to send your suggestions, ideas, comments and pictures to me at robertsk@spotlightnews.com. You can check out the latest at www.cdparentpages.com. Kristen Roberts Editor, Capital District Parent Pages

On the cover: Oliver, 3, of Clifton Park enjoys some beach time in this photo submitted by his father, Kurt. Parent Pages is always accepting photos for potential covers. Submissions should be at least 8-by-10-inches with a dpi of 400. They can be sent via email to robertsk@spotlightnews.com.

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

AUGUST 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 3

On the Bookshelf

Stories for summer and beyond ‘Brian the Brave’

‘Last Last-Day-of-Summer’

By Paul Stewart;

by Lamar Giles When two adventurous cousins accidentally extend the last day of summer by freezing time, they find the secrets hidden between the unmoving seconds, minutes, and hours are not the endless fun they expected. Versify

Illustrated by Jane Porter Every sheep is different. Some white, some black. They’re all still sheep, and they can all play together. At least that’s what Brian thinks – until the other sheep say they can be friends only with sheep that are just like them. Can Brian help the sheep come together in the face of danger? Flyaway Books

‘If I Built a School’ by Chris Van Dusen If Jack built a school, there would be hover desks and pop-up textbooks, skydiving wind tunnels and a trampoline basketball court in the gym and a robo-chef to serve lunch. The inventive boy who described his ideal car and house in previous books is dreaming even bigger this time. Dial Books

Nurturing your child’s mind, body and curiosity Explore Discover Learn Grow

Announcing Our New Location in Colonie, NY: 210 Morris Road Central to Guilderland, Latham, Albany, Schenectady, and surrounding suburbs.

518-937-9338 age 3 - grade 8 Limited availability for the 2019-2020 school year.

www.riverrunmontessori.org

Get the word out! List your event for parents & children in our monthly calendar

4 PARENT PAGES — AUGUST 2019

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Send calendar submissions by the 5th of the previous month to: Capital District Parent Pages, Attn: Calendar, P.O. Box 100, Delmar, N.Y. 12054 or Email: robertsk@spotlightnews.com

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parenting is a full-time job

Support foster families, MYOB

ave you ever been curious as to why a child you know has been taken away from their birth parents? I have mentioned this briefly in previous columns and told everyone not to ask. That’s still a no, by the way. Don’t ask. The family may not be able to tell you, or they may want to respect the child’s privacy. Besides, we all know you want to know what “sort” of child they are. So nope, we’re not going there. That being said, Child Protective Services doesn’t go around town taking children away from their homes like stray puppies. For one thing, they can’t. For another thing, CPS’s main concern is to keep families together, even when the child is removed from the home. A foster parent is told from the start that it is part of their job

to help the family reunite. There are two main reasons for removal from the birth family, abuse and neglect. Abuse is fairly straightforward. Neglect can get fuzzy, but that’s why we rely on the laws and the fact that no one needs evidence to report it. That’s why the phrase “suspected” child abuse or neglect is used. Either way, something terrible happened to this child or family that is so extreme the child was removed. That’s all you need to know. Trust us, we know more about this than we would want to. We don’t wish the same on anyone. This isn’t TV, you don’t need the details.

family member’s home, it’s not the time to judge the foster family, the foster child, nor the foster child’s birth family. It’s not the time to ask the family why the child is “acting like that.” It’s not the time to offer advice on discipline. (Think by about it: How do you think a child who has been beaten is going to react to spanking? How do you think traumatizing an already traumatized child with spanking or hitting going to benefit them? Write me an essay. Use examples.) It’s not the time to disrespect the family by not including the foster child in family events. They are part of the family just as much as anyone else is.

Theresa Davis

When a child enters a friend or

Support the family by inclu-

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sion in all family events and traditions. Do everything you can to make the foster child feel welcome. Embarrass them with a crazy family reunion T-shirt too! No one gets away with not wearing one! Offer to take pictures for the scrapbook the child takes with them for visits. If a child does act out, let the foster family handle it. There is most likely a certain way the child needs to be dealt with. I will warn you, in some instances it looks like the parents are spoiling the foster child. I may get to that another time. Trust the foster parents, and the foster child. 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.

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The 24-hour shift

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Let’s Cook!

Hot days, cool treats Chill out with this fun pair of freeze pops

t’s the dog days of summer, so feel free to chill out with one of the freeze pop recipes below. Parents will feel good about the all-natural ingredients (even spinach in the watermelon pop!), and kids will like the bright flavors.

If you don’t have freeze pop molds, simply use a 5 oz. paper coated cup as a freeze pop mold. Let them freeze for approximately an hour and add a craft stick in the center. Continue to freeze

Jodie Fitz

the freeze pops for four hours or overnight. Remove the cups by clipping a piece of the edge with scissors and peeling the cup from the pop.

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

Strawberry Lime Freeze Pops 2 cups of fresh sliced strawberries 1/2 cup Greek vanilla yogurt 1/4 cup honey 2 tablespoons of fresh squeezed lime juice 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract Puree the strawberries, honey, lime juice and vanilla extract together in a food processor or blender. Add in the yogurt until blended well. Fill your freeze pop molds and freeze for a minimum of 4 hours before serving. The mixture should make approximately 1-1/2 cups of liquid (12 oz.).

Watermelon Look-Alike Freeze Pops Layer 1 6 oz. vanilla yogurt 10 fresh cherries, pitted 1/4 cup semi-sweet mini chocolate morsels 1 tablespoon honey Place the cherries into a mini food processor and chop them finely. Scrape the sides and continue the chopping process. Add the yogurt and honey into the mini food processor with the finely chopped cherries and process more; until the mixture is pink and the cherry pieces are well blended. You may have to stop, scrape the sides and continue the processing. Once finished, fold the cherry yogurt mixture together with the mini chocolate morsels. 6 PARENT PAGES — AUGUST 2019

Divide the cherry yogurt mixture into three 5 oz. paper coated cups and place them in the freezer for 30 minutes. Prepare layer 2. Layer 2 6 oz. vanilla yogurt 1/4 cup fresh baby leaf spinach 1-1/4 tablespoons honey Place the yogurt, spinach and honey into a mini food processor. Blend until the mixture is fully blended. Equally add the green layer on top of the cherry mixture in the three cups. Add a craft stick to the center of each pop. Freeze the pops for a minimum of two hours.

parenting triplets in the Capital District

Triple Threat

Over and out

The Steuer triplets get ready for middle school

am usually writing about the month coming up and what we might be anticipating. For August, I often think of school supplies, figuring out those las- minute appointments that need to be made and how many free or inexpensive things can we still enjoy before that alarm clock goes off on Sept. 6.

was pronounced correctly. I studied the children as they lined up and stood in formation. Each of the beautiful young ladies and the handsome young men appeared to be lost in thought. Quite a few of the girls were tearing up or crying already. I wondered: Did we, the adults, keep re-gifting our cynicism, sarcasm and sentimentality to our children?

Looking forward and anticipating the future of middle school is fun and a little anxiety provoking, so this August I am looking backwards to the month of June and the graduation of the Steuer trio. Graduating is bittersweet: part of their life is done and another is ready to begin. Yes, it is over. The idea of a 5th grade graduation means the kids are leaving the elementary building and heading off to the middle school across town. I just can’t wrap my thoughts around the fact that these three have spent seven years in their Montessori cocoon, and now it’s time to break out, becoming middle school Monarchs. My kids have been wrapped in the most amazing bubble of teachers, administrators and classmates. Seeing this end is hard because the school, the kids and I have been a team for seven years. My favorite phone calls were always from our school nurse because she would say “School nurse here. There is no emergency…” then she would continue. My anxiety would immediately drop after she said her line. I have pictures of the first day of pre-kindergarten in 2012, and I almost don’t recognize the small kids with backpacks that look huge. The teeny tiny kids with teeny tiny voices skipped to school and didn’t glance back at Harlan or me when we delivered

Fifth-grade graduation brought with it a mix of emotions – for the Steuer kids and parents. them to their classroom. Oh, they knew they were such big kids! I watched Olivia and Rebecca start chatting right away with the girls sitting near them. Benjamin’s eyes darted around as he looked for the boy he had befriended on the orientation night and then he smiled that big smile. Friendships solidified and school supplies unpacked – Rebecca, Olivia and Benjamin were ready to learn everything.

hitting milestones at the same time can be a positive: one graduation party, teaching them all to drive at once, and if we are fortunate, possibly another generation under the Steuer name.

The Montessori elementary experience gave each child a firm foundation to find traditional and alternative ways to solve by problems, to have discussions that involve talking, listening/hearing and how to be better environmental From those stewards. Three very precious pinch-able independent thinkers cheeks in pre-K to the who back up their thoughts or kids who are now getting the opinions with research or an age surly tween-ager act down appropriate “Just because it is!” perfect makes me feel like I need to slow this all down. I didn’t The ceremony was really nice just have one child graduate and went as expected: Harlan from fifth grade, I had all my cried, I crawled on the floor to kids graduate. I have no do-over. get a good picture and our last I have no “I can do better” with name was spelled wrong. I will the next child. Three kids each hand it to their teachers: Steuer

Jennifer Steuer

As I watched the classes sing for the guests I noticed two things: Benjamin was actually standing on a riser and his mouth was moving. I did learn later because he just cannot lie that he was singing a different version of the song. I must celebrate the win here: Ben was singing! He was standing next to the other young man with the same name who became fast friends that warm orientation night. They aren’t so little now, but they are still friends. Looking at the past seven years gives me a sense of comfort because I knew what to expect. This coming year makes me a little nervous: hormones, class schedules, a new school and taking a bus both ways. (Did I mention hormones?) What I am certain of is this: Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca are going to middle school with a firm educational background and a respect for different ways of learning. I will hold my breath the first day until they get home and I can ask the usual, “How was your day?” When I get three grunts or an exasperated “Fine!” I will know that I can exhale. Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom whose busy household includes her husband, Harlan, and 11-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca. Follow her on Instagram: jennifersteuer. AUGUST 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 7

Making family finances work for you

How things add up

A basic understanding of math is essential for budgeting

know it’s wrong to say (especially as a woman in 2019), but I do find math somewhat … difficult. I’ve been paying more attention to the numbers in my life lately, and I’m finding it takes a lot of work to keep them in order. Maybe I’m just out of practice. I’ve spent too many years calling myself a “word person”—as if you can’t be good at both words and numbers — and declaring outright that I’m “bad at math.”

adeline

In case anyone else has trouble with this stuff, here are a few things I’ve learned about math during the past months.

checking till I get it right.

Planning out an entire year’s budget means thinking in terms of weeks, not months. Multiplying a Calculators monthly budget by and computers by 12 won’t cannot always cut it because account for the although we human errors all know there made by the are 12 months humans operatin a year, some ing them. In of us (me) tend other words, I need to forget there are to check my work. Sev52 weeks. When I eral times. I’m not exaggerating can remember that, five-week Yeah, labels like that don’t when I say I can add a column months are no longer an unwelCantarella Culpo, help. I also have to admitDirector this of numbers four times and get come and surprising financial isn’t the best message to spread Madeline Cantarella four different answers.Culpo, Confus-Director problem. around to my kids (who, lucking? Yes. But only the correct If the question is, “Would ily, happen to be great at math). one matters, so I’ve got to keep

Heather E. Schwartz

L DANCEFALL CLASSES DANCE CLASSES Madeline

FALL

Cantarella

Culpo,

DANCE

Gerard Bialek photo

Show Money Who’s Boss

you like a receipt?” I should always, always say, “Yes.” (Even to those 5-foot-long CVS receipts.) It’s a lot easier to rely on these physical reminders when tracking spending than my unreliable and overcrowded memory. By the time I get home from grocery shopping, my mind is busy strategizing how I’ll pull together dinner in the late afternoon heat, the total I spent easily forgotten. Failing to budget for unexpected expenses doesn’t make them go away. This month alone, I’ve been hit with library fines (OK, that’s my own fault), ice cream truck purchases (again, a choice I made), and the costs associated with repurchasing pants I bought — and wore — in the wrong size (It

Continued on Page 9

Director

CLASSES

Pointe * Modern * Lyrical * Ballet * Pointe * Modern * Lyrical * Madeline Cantarella Culpo, Director Director Madeline Cantarella Culpo, Director Madeline Culpo, * AdultPre-Ballet Ballet *Cantarella Mommy & Me* Mommy & Me * Adult Ballet Ballet * Pointe Pre-Ballet * Adult Classes

Start

NUTCRACKER

* Modern * Lyrical * Ballet * Mommy & Me Friday,

Ages

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6-8

10:00

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FALL DANCE CLASSES Classes Start Friday, Sep. 7 DANCE CLASSES es Start FALL Friday, Sep. 7 CLASSES Ballet * Pointe * Modern * Lyrical *

* Pointe BalletBallet * Pointe * Modern * Lyrical * Modern* *Adult Pre-Ballet Pre-Ballet Ballet * Mommy & Me NUTCRACKER AUDITIONS Pre-Ballet * Adult Ballet * Mommy & Me Tap & Jazz CKER AUDITIONS Classes Start Friday, 6th Classes StartSept. Friday,

Sep. Sep. 7 Sunday, 16th

Classes Start Friday, Sep. 7 Sunday, Sep. 16th Ages 6-8 10:00 am NUTCRACKER AgesNUTCRACKER 6-8 10:00 am AUDITIONS AUDITIONS NUTCRACKER AUDITIONS Ages Sunday, Sep. 16th 4-5 12:00 pm Sunday, Sept. 15th

Ages 4-5 12:00 Sunday, pm Ages 6-8Sep. 10:00 am10:00 am 16th Ages 6-8

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admin@schoolofabb.org * www.schoolofabb.org

* www.schoolofabb.org 8 PARENTadmin@schoolofabb.org PAGES — AUGUST 2019

25 Monroe hoolofabb.org * 518-426-0660 www.schoolofabb.org 518-426-0660 * 25 Monroe*Street, Albany, NYStreet, 12210 Albany, NY 12210 admin@schoolofabb.org * www.schoolofabb.org

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Ages 9-11 12:30 pm

4-5 Ages6-8 4-5 Ages 12:00 pm12:00 pm 10:00 am Ages 9-11 12:30Ages pm Ages 12 & up 2:30 pm 9-11 Ages 9-11Ages 12:30 pm12:30 pm Ages 4-5Ages 12:00 pm 12 & up 2:30 pm Ages 12 & up 2:30 pm Ages 12 & up 2:30 pm Ages 9-11 12:30 pm admin@schoolofabb.org * www.schoolofabb.org 518-426-0660Ages * 2512 Monroe Albany, NY 12210 & up Street, 2:30 pm

CHOOSE CAR SEAT: BY AGE & SIZE

THE ONES

WHO ACTUALLY DO.

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

THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE

THEY HAVE THEIR CHILD IN THE RIGHT SEAT.

When it comes to sticking to a budget, one doesn’t have the option to be “bad at math.”

n Show Money continued from Page 8 was an honest mistake!). Where did this money come from? Next month’s spending budget. When that future month comes, the numbers will leave me short so I have to reach into the following month’s budget, and so on. Math itself demands that I create a change jar and sell some clothes (including those pants I can’t return) at a consignment store. I have to build up a budget for these “unexpected expenses” because honestly, they’re not all that rare. This may sound simple, and

really, it is. When I think about it, getting math right as an adult all comes down to correct calculations. It’s probably fourth grade AGX-2A001D stuff. Not algebra. AD COUNCIL “NHTSA Pencil” Not calculus. There’s no final Non-Bleed: 3.5” x 10” 4/C Magazine Thin Vertical exam looming. Line Screen: 133

KNOW FOR SURE

IF YOUR CHILD IS IN THE RIGHT CAR SEAT.

Pubs: Various Insertion Date: 2012

Of course, there is retirement… I guess that’ll have to be enough to motivate me to work my math over the next few decades.

Give us a call today.

VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/THERIGHTSEAT

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

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Heather E. Schwartz writes children’s books for a living and performs at The Mopco Improv Theatre in Schenectady for fun. She’ll release three money tips books in 2019. Visit www. showmoneywhosboss.com.

Failing to budget for unexpected expenses doesn’t make them go away. This month alone, I’ve been hit with library fines (OK, that’s my own fault), ice cream truck purchases (again, a choice I made), and the costs associated with repurchasing pants I bought — and wore — in the wrong size (It was an honest mistake!). 109613_4

AUGUST 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 9

School clothes shopping savvy Save money by waiting for fall sales

hildren and parents often look forward to the start of a new school year. But before the first homeroom takes place, parents may need to take their students clothes shopping. During the back-to-school season American households spend $27.6 billion, which is second only to the holiday season in regard to the most lucrative times for retailers.

Learn the ropes to get back-to-school clothing deals.

LACK OF EYE CONTACT IS A SIGN OF AUTISM. Learn the others at autismspeaks.org/signs

10â&#x20AC;&#x201A; PARENT PAGES â&#x20AC;&#x201D; AUGUST 2019

Apparel is a large part of back-to-school shopping. Many parents find they need to outfit their kids with a new wardrobe each year. Jeans and leggings that fit like a glove in June may only reach mid-calf by Labor Day.

Continued on Page11

n Shopping savvy continued from Page 10 To make the shopping process less harried and more productive, parents can employ these strategies.

Take inventory Go through kids’ wardrobes and see what can be salvaged and what might need to go. This is the perfect opportunity to put aside gently used, outgrown items that may be passed on to someone else who can use them. Be sure to make a list of any items that the school requires, particularly in regard to uniforms or dress codes. By knowing what’s in stock in the closet, you’ll have a clear idea of what you need to buy.

Sign up for loyalty programs If yours is a child who prefers certain brands, sign up early in the year for such brands’ loyalty

clubs. You may be privy to discounts and sale advertisements before the general public.

Get enough to get by While certain clothing sales happen between July and August, oftentimes the real savings begin in October, according to the budgeting resource Money Crashers. Wait until that time to buy the bulk of kids’ school clothes. After all, the first weeks of school are usually warm, and summer clothing will still suffice with a few new items thrown in to freshen up wardrobes.

Invest in quality shoes Sneakers and other shoes can be expensive. However, investing in quality brands can help you avoid having to buy shoes frequently.

Did you know? An IEP, or an individualized education program, is a document that is developed for a public school student who requires special education services as determined after an assessment. In addition to being a legal document, the IEP will lay out the program of school instruction and serve as a map for support and services that the student needs for success, according to Understood.org, an organization for parents of students with learning and attention issues. The IEP is covered by law by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in the United States. IEPs may provide for longer testing times, assistive technology, specialized seating or classroom placement, dictated tests, or whatever the parents and school team agree on. Goals are typically set, and parents will meet with the team in regular IEP meetings to gauge students’ progress. Similar to an IEP, a 504 plan is a plan that also offers accommodations so students with disabilities have equal access to the general education curriculum. However, 504s are not part of the realm of special education. Parents can work with the administrators of their child’s school to determine which education plan or program is most fitting for their youngsters. Both are free of cost and can last through high school.

Watch for shoe sales and stock up on coupons. Many stores offer “buy-one, get-one half off” during the back-toschool season.

Miss Peggy’s Music Room Live Your Love!

Begins September 9th misspeggysmusic.com misspeggysmusic@aol.com 518-458-2927 109626_4

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AUGUST 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 11

Learning Center

Education insight for parents

Be ready for the school year

Start now to get kids prepared for successful learning

he inevitable last minutes of summer are ticking away. The countdown has begun for back-to-school once again. And along with it, major retailers are bombarding parents, making sure they hurry out and buy the coolest new outfits, backpacks and gadgets for their kids. This hyped-up, commercial back-to-school rush to equip students with new garments and gear often gets in the way of the real preparations that parents and kids should focus on for a successful school year: learning. To help parents and students start the school year strong,

we’ve compiled a list of tips for and students to help start the year off and focus on academic achievement. Start early so you’re both well prepared for the new year.

Don’t wait until the last minute to finish summer work. It will be the last week of summer before you know it. Make sure your child doesn’t fall behind on their summer reading or any other work they had for the summer. Even if your child didn’t have a check list of work to complete

be sure they are doing some summer studying so they don’t suffer from summer learning loss. Use the last few weeks to have them read each day, do some math problems or science by projects. This will greatly help the transition into the new school year.

Patrick McNamara

Reintroduce regular meal

times. During summer months, kids tend to grab a snack several times during the day. Parents can start reminding students to get back into a

three-meal-a-day schedule in order to regulate their system into the back-to-school mode. Nutrition is an important factor in academic performance, and eating a healthy, balanced breakfast and lunch keeps kids alert throughout the day.

Create a family calendar. Time management is tricky for everyone, especially kids and teens, but planning is an important way to save everyone’s sanity. Having major deadlines, due dates, events and extracurricular activities in one place helps kids visualize their week, manage their time and stay on track.

Continued on Page 13

HOW DO YOU STOP A MAN FROM HITTING HIS WIFE? TALK TO HIM WHEN HE’S 12.

One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. You have the power to change that statistic. Teach the boys in your life how to have healthy relationships. Get conversation starters and tips at TeachEarly.org.

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12 PARENT PAGES — AUGUST 2019

START THE CONVERSATION TODAY AT TEACHEARLY.ORG

n Learning Center continued from Page 12

Don’t ditch good habits. If you and your child have established a good summer learning routine, when school starts try not to forsake all of the fun reading, writing and art activities that kept your child engaged all summer.

Shop for school supplies together. Allow your child to pick out a new backpack or lunch box to get them excited for the school year. Give them a sense of ownership for their new things by picking out the supplies on their list.

Set up a homework station. Know where your child will go to do their homework every day. Let them choose a place that works for both of you so it’s quiet enough for them but you’re

Now is the time to reintroduce family routines, such as regular meal times. accessible if necessary.

Impose the twoweek rule. With later bedtimes over the summer, children need to ease back into

their school routine rather than having a sudden change their first day of school. Using the last two weeks of summer to reintroduce a school year bedtime routine will make waking up on that first day a lot easier.

Patrick McNamara is the Executive Director of Sylvan Learning of Albany and Clifton Park, which provides tutoring services and academic coaching (www.SylvanLearning.com).

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AUGUST 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 13

Tips for finding an afterschool p

Be sure to take advantage of local resources in your searc

oday’s children grow up differently than their parents did, and perhaps the biggest difference between how today’s kids grow up and how their parents were raised concerns the dynamic at home. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2018 both parents worked in 63 percent of households that were home to married-couple families with children. Many of those parents likely did not grow up in households in which both of their parents worked full-time throughout their childhoods, marking a significant difference in the dynamics of modern families compared to those of yesteryear. Afterschool programs take on heightened importance when both parents work fulltime, especially if neither parent works

14 PARENT PAGES — AUGUST 2019

from home. Many schools and community organizations offer afterschool programs. While it’s great to have options, too many options can make it daunting for parents to find the program for their children. The Afterschool Alliance (www.afterschoolalliance.org), which works to ensure all youth have access to affordable, quality afterschool programs, offers the following tips to parents as they look to find afterschool programs for their children.

Contact your child’s school Many schools have afterschool programs on school premises. Speak with school administrators or teachers about schoolsponsored afterschool programs. Even if a school does not have such a program, educators might be able to provide a list of

nearby programs other students attend.

Check community organizations Many community organizations, such as the YMCA, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the 4-H Council, may offer afterschool programs. Local churches, synagogues and mosques also may offer afterschool programs to local families, regardless of their religious affiliation. When speaking to community organizations, discuss how kids are typically transported from school to the program.

Speak with fellow parents Your community is a great resource. Fellow parents and neighbors, even those whose kids may be in high school or even out of the house, may be able to recom-

m s

a g C c f s

l y s i r o

ol program

mend local programs. Reach out at schoolsponsored events or via social media.

Contact your local government Local government offices and officials also can help parents find afterschool programs in their communities. Local Child Care Resource and Referral agencies (www. childcareaware.org) can be valuable assets for parents having trouble finding afterschool programs for their children. Finally, check out the local programs listed here to see what might line up with your child’s interest for a good fit. Afterschool programs are invaluable to families in which both parents work, so finding the right program may involve a combination of strategies.

Afterschool programs take on heightened importance when both parents work full-time, especially if neither parent works from home.

Afterschool and enrichment programs in the Capital District AFRIM’S Sports Youth programs, soccer camps, action camps and youth leagues. Available every day and during all school breaks and holidays. 636 Albany Shaker Road, Albany Call (518) 438-3131 or visit www.AfrimSports.com Albany Berkshire Ballet Dance classes for beginner through professional. 25 Monroe St., Albany Call (518) 426-0660 or visit www.SchoolofAbb.org Bizzy Beez: A Sensory Adventure An innovative indoor space where kids of all ages can climb, swing, spin, build and craft their way through a variety of different settings. It is a location that offers interactive, engaging and imaginative sensory experiences. Afterschool enrichment programs, workshops, field trips and birthday parties. Wolf Road Shoppers Plaza 145 Wolf Road, Albany www.bizzybeezsensoryadventures.org Drama Kids International Weekly classes for kids ages 4-18 throughout the Capital Region. Call (518) 458-1313 or visit www.DramaKids.com Merritt Dance Center Recreation and competitive dance for preschool through advanced levels. 1360 Albany St., Schenectady Call 518-372-5282 or visit www.MerrittDanceCenter.com Miss Peggy’s Music Room Early childhood music for little singers and dancers, from ages 3 to adult. Call (518) 458-2927 or visit www.MissPeggysMusic.com

Orlando School of Dance Register for Fall: creative dance 3-year-olds, preschool, ballet, tap, jazz, and adult programs. NEW LOCATION: 105 Mohawk Ave., Scotia Call (518) 393-7827 or visit www.OrlandoDance.com River Run Montessori Nurturing your child’s mind, body and curiosity. For ages 3 to grade 8. NEW LOCATION: 210 Morris Road, Colonie Call (518) 937-9338 or visit www.RiverRunMontessori.org Rosa Venerini Early Childhood Center Daycare, preschool, pre-K/universal pre-K, before care and afterschool openings. 1840 Van Vranken Ave., Schenectady Call (518) 372-5961 or visit www.RosaVenerini.com Spotted Zebra Learning Center A state-of-the-art, year-round integrated preschool program and toddler program. 26 Computer Drive East, Albany www.SpottedZebra.org The Music Studio A Capital Region institution, providing comprehensive, piano-based music education in fun and challenging group classes for children ages 2 and up. Call (518) 459-7799 or visit www.TheMusicStudio.com Woodland Hill Montessori School A vibrant school well known for its unique and challenging educational program, warm stimulating environment, and students who are active, independent learners. Unique toddler program for children ages 18 months through 3 years old. 100 Montessori Place, North Greenbush Call (518) 283-5400 or visit www.WoodlandHill.org

AUGUST 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 15

n u F s d i K e g Pa

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Coloring Fun

16 PARENT PAGES — AUGUST 2019

Calendar of events

family fun for August

August 2 Friday

Movies in Wiswall Park: The Incredibles 2 Movies are projected onto the wall of the adjacent Front Street Deli building and begin at approximately dusk. Bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Wiswall Park, 39 Front St., Ballston Spa. For more information, call (518) 885-2772.

Slime Time: Meet Slugs, Snails and Worms

Springs. For more information, visit cmssny. org or call (518) 584-5540.

Entomology Exploration Delve into the world of the creepy crawling critters that are insects and use nets to see what’s in the bushes and scoop up dead leaves to see who’s on the ground, 2-3:30 p.m. Cost is $5 per person/$15 per family for members; $15 per person/$25 per family for nonmembers. Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance. For more information, call (518) 875-6935.

Meet real creatures up close, watch snails and slugs crawl, and figure out which end of an earthworm is the front. Author Anita Sanchez reads from her book “Rotten! Vultures, Beetles, Slime, and Nature’s Decomposers” during this lively, hands-on program, 2-3 p.m. For grades K-4. Free. New York State Museum , 222 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 474-0575.

Dungeons and Dragons Use your imagination and problemsolving skills while meeting and socializing with others who enjoy role-playing games, 10:30 a.m. All playing materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own dice or D&D 5th Edition Character Sheet. For grades 6-12. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

Are We There, Yeti? A fun read aloud, followed by music, movement, a yummy road trip snack and maybe a silly snow ball fight, 11 a.m. Please inform us of any food allergies. Pre-K-Grade 2; registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland, NY 12084. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Bricks, Bits, and Bots From toddlers to tweens, everyone is welcome to drop in and enjoy building with Legos and more, 10:30 a.m. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Turtle Time

Open Houses

Wireless Circuit Design Challenge

Sunday, September 8 @ 1:00 pm

Big Truck Day Trucks of all shapes and sizes will be on display for children to explore – from classic favorites to unique finds, it will be hard to pick a favorite, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fundraiser for the Children’s Museum at Saratoga; cost is $5 for children and $2 for adults. Maple Ave. Middle School, 515 Maple Ave., Saratoga

years

You and your child will be able to participate in a fun-filled introduction to our celebrated school-year Foundation program for children ages 4 - 7.

Thursday, September 5 @ 7:00 pm

3 Saturday

The Music sTudio

Observe a live turtle and discover something new about these ancient reptiles, 2:30 p.m. For all ages. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.

Learn about simple circuits and how they work then design and build a nontraditional circuit, 10 a.m. Be prepared to work in teams. For ages 9-14. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

The Capital Region’s music school of choice for more than

Tuesday, August 20 @ 7:00 pm Saturday, September 7 @ 9:30 am, 11:30 am, or 1:00 pm

Monday, September 9 @ 7:00 pm

Please call

518-459-7799

ages 3-7

for reservations

Classes for 2 and 3 year-olds too!

TheMusicStudio.com 1237 Central Avenue Albany, New York

Singing • Keyboard Ensemble • Piano Rhythm • Ear Training 109620_4

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AUGUST 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 17 7/8/19 2:40 PM

Capital District

arent pages

Calendar of events 3 Saturday (cont.) Basic Dog Training for Kids Tony Filippone and his canine companion, will demonstrate training techniques, 2:30 p.m. Program is for humans only. For grades 1-5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

The Resource for Parents

4 Sunday

Upcoming Monthly Themes & Deadlines

My Mother the Astronaut The Traveling Lantern Theatre Company presents: My Mother the Astronaut, 2 p.m. Drop-in family program for children ages 3 and up. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

September

October

November

December The Holidays Theatre Deadline: November 4th

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call

Denice Mau at 439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com 18 PARENT PAGES — AUGUST 2019

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Out of this World with CMOST The Children’s Museum of Science & Technology (CMOST) will be at GPL to help us experiment with hands-on learning activities revolving around planets, moons and stars in a fun-filled program, 6:30 p.m. Grades 3-5; registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland, NY 12084. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Breakout Room for Teens

Dance Around the World

Pine Bush Pups: Batty for Bats

An hour of toe-tapping reels, jigs and more with fiddle music by Tamarack and caller Paul Rosenberg, 6:30 p.m. Please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Also Wednesday. Explore bat habitat, listen to a story about a very special bat, and make a bat craft to bring home, 10-11 a.m. For up to age 6 and caregiver. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.

Solar Rovers with Five Rivers

Santa’s Arrival Holiday Happenings Holiday Road Trips Deadline: October 7th

6 Tuesday

Tower building, bridge making and timed races using Oreos: Compete, then eat, 1 p.m. For ages 3-11. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Game Day: Oreo Edition

Fun Fall Activities Halloween Deadline: September 3rd

K-3; registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland, NY 12084. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

A malevolent AI has taken over your space station and is threatening to destroy it! A crack team of teens is needed to locate the password that will override the AI and let the astronauts take back control of the station before it’s too late. Join the team from 6:30-8:00 p.m. Grades 7 and up. Please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

5 Monday

Now They’re Back in School After School Activities (Part 2) Deadline: August 5th

family fun for August

An educator from Five Rivers will talk about solar power, and then teams will 7 Wednesday work together to build a solar rover, 2 p.m. Cohoes Summer Movie Series: Teams must include one adult. For kids and Night at the Museum families. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Feature film preceded by pre-show Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or activities; come early and guess the creatures in the movie poster to be entered to win a visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org. prize, activities at noon; showtime 1 p.m. Monday Funday Explorers Free; pick up tickets at box office. Cohoes Meet us in front of the visitor center to Music Hall, 58 Remsen St., Cohoes. For more head out on a different adventure each week, information, call (518) 953-0630. 1-3 p.m. For children in grades K-5 and their Turtle Time caregivers, but all ages are welcome. Free. Observe a live turtle and discover Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road Delmar. For more infor- something new about these ancient reptiles, 2:30 p.m. For all ages. Free, but registramation, call (518) 475-0291 or visit www. tion required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery dec.ny.gov/education/1835.html. Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For Little Lego more information, call (518) 456-0655 or Use your imagination for some inspired visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events. creations with friends. Bring your own or use the library’s collection, 3:30 p.m. Grades Continued on the next page

family fun for August

7 Wednesday (cont.)

8 Thursday

Code with Ozobots

Lawn Story Time: At the Beach

Evenings on the Green: Alyssa Yeager Family-friendly music that engages the imagination with imagery and creative storytelling, 7 p.m. Featuring an ice cream social and membership drive at 6:30 p.m. sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, pick a spot on the Green, then sit back, relax and enjoy. Concerts will move indoors if it rains. For all ages. Sponsored by the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Submit an event

Bring a blanket, your favorite doll, or furry friend to share in the fun of beach stories, music, and a simple craft on the back lawn, 10:30 a.m. Light refreshments will be provided. Ages 2 and up. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

9 Friday Out of this World Carnival A spectacularly stellar scene of fantastic family fun awaits at this cosmic carnival, 3 p.m. All ages. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland, NY 12084. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Family Book Discussion: Podkin One-Ear

Turtle Time Observe a live turtle and discover something new about these ancient reptiles, 2:30 p.m. For all ages. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.

Read and discuss Kieran Larwood’s tale of warrior rabbits and enjoy related activities, 2:30 OR 6:30 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Summertots An early literacy program that emphasizes sharing books, flannel board stories, music, rhymes, and playtime together, 9:45 or 10:45 a.m. For newborns to 30 months with a caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

• To have your event included in our print edition, email the information, including date, time, place, cost and contact information to robertsk@ spotlightnews.com by the 10th of the preceding month. Events run space permitting, and submission does not guarantee publication.

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

Toddler Art Lab Toddlers are invited to explore materials and techniques in this hands-on sensory program, 3 p.m. Please dress for a mess. For ages 18-36 months and caregiver; registration required. Guilderland Public Library,

10 Saturday Can Ducks Ride Bikes? Join WMHT’s Barbara Lukas for a fun family literacy program based on the classic kids’ book “Duck on a Bike,” 10:30 a.m. Pre-K-Grade 2; registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland, NY 12084. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

1KBBK Celebration Preschoolers and their families are invited to join this hour long celebration at 10:30 a.m. as we salute the accomplishments in the “One Thousand Books Before Kindergarten” program. Please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.

org or call (518) 765-2791.

Family Fun: Night Owls Who who who whoooo wants to learn about nocturnal life at Five Rivers? Join the staff on a night hike and learn how animals have adapted to life in the dark, 7:30-9 p.m. All ages welcome. Space is limited; please register by Aug. 7. 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.

Buzz of the Pine Bush Bees An indoor introduction to these native beauties followed by outdoor observation on the trail during a hike, 1 p.m. For all ages. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.

Sci-Fi @ miSci Meet characters and get your photo taken with members from the 501st Legion (Vader’s Fist), the Rebel Legion, and the R2D2 Builders Club, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost $5 for children, $8 for seniors and $10 for adults. MiSci, 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 382-7890 or visit www.misci.org.

Dungeons and Dragons Use your imagination and problemsolving skills while meeting and socializing with others who enjoy role-playing games, 2:30 p.m. All playing materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own dice or D&D 5th Edition Character Sheet. For grades 6-12. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

Want to draw more business online?

Our 65th Year!

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

FINAL SUMMER WORKSHOP:

AUGUST 5-9

Check us out at:

www.cdparentpages.com

Creative Dance for 3-Year Olds, Pre-School, Ballet, Tap, Jazz & Adult Programs To register, call us today at 518-393-7827. 107147_4

OPEN HOUSES

Please join us at our NEW LOCATION:

105 MOHAWK AVE., SCOTIA 105 Mohawk Ave., Scotia • www.orlandodance.com Wed., Aug. 7 & Wed., Aug. 28 • 5-7PM

109645_4

Use Blockly to code and navigate an Ozobot through different challenges, 2 p.m. Open to all levels of coders. For ages 9-14. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Calendar of events

AUGUST 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 19

Calendar of events

family fun for August

11 Sunday

Pick of the month

Free Film: The Lorax

12 Monday Motor Skills Group Play

Paws to Read Bring a book or borrow one to read to a gentle dog who loves stories, 6 p.m. For grades 1-5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Monday Funday Explorers Meet us in front of the visitor center to head out on a different adventure each week, 1-3 p.m. For children in grades K-5 and their caregivers, but all ages are welcome. 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.

Mini-Naturalist: Backyard Bugs Explore and learn in this fun nature adventure, 10:30 a.m. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

13 Tuesday Magic & Juggling Celebrate Summer Reading with Magician and Juggler Scott Jameson, 6:30 p.m. For children ages 4 and up and families. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Game Day Play classic, new and worldwide games indoors and outdoors, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Make

20 PARENT PAGES — AUGUST 2019

Family Nature Journaling Explore some simple journaling activities incorporating drawing, scientific observation, and poetry into our journal entries, 10 a.m. For ages 6 and up. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.

Summer movies for the whole family, 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Free. GE Theatre at Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 346-6204 or visit www.proctors.org.

Children ages 3-5 can play and explore a variety of fun activities to help them develop their fine and gross motor skills, 10 a.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Upcycled Bird Feeders

August

Children’s Concert at the Pruyn House The William K. Sanford Town Library and the Friends of Pruyn House present Seth & The Moody Melix, 6:30 p.m. Free. Buhrmaster Barn at the Pruyn House, 207 Old Niskayuna Road, Latham. For more information, call (518) 783-1435.

sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes you can run in. For children in grades K-6. Please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Pine Bush Pups: Explore Six Mile Waterworks Also Wednesday. Did you ever wonder what lives in a lake besides fish and frogs? Put on your boots and be prepared to explore the waters of Six Mile Waterworks (Rensselaer Lake), from the edge, 10-11 a.m. Meet in the parking lot at Six Mile Waterworks. For up to age 6 and caregiver. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.

Alien Adventure Enjoy an alien storytime and activity in the Community Room, 2:30 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

14 Wednesday StarLab Experience the Dudley Observatory’s portable planetarium: Seasonal Stargazers,

1:30 and 5:45 p.m. for grades K-5; and As the Earth Spins, 2:45 p.m. for grades K-2. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland, NY 12084. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Learn how to use soda, juice, or water bottles to create bird feeders; all materials provided, 6:30 p.m. For grades 7 and up. Please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Summertots An early literacy program that emphasizes sharing books, flannel board stories, music, rhymes, and playtime together, 9:45 or 10:45 a.m. For up to 30 months with caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

A Universe of Stories and Art with the Tang Museum

Create textural works inspired by artists Alma Thomas and Carrie Moyer, 2 p.m. For Cohoes Summer Movie Series: grades 1-5. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Ice Age: Collision Course Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. Feature film preceded by pre-show activ- For more information, call (518) 439-9314 ities; dress as your favorite Ice Age character or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org. will be registered to win a prize, activities at Reader Read-In: noon; showtime 1 p.m. Free; pick up tickets Frog and Toad Are Friends at box office. Cohoes Music Hall, 58 Remsen Practice reading with a teen volunteer St., Cohoes. For more information, call (518) (supervised by literacy experts), or read qui953-0630. etly alone or as a family, 6:30 p.m. RefreshTurtle Time ments available. For grades 1-5. Bethlehem Observe a live turtle and discover Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. something new about these ancient reptiles, For more information, call (518) 439-9314 2:30 p.m. For all ages. Free, but registraor visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org. tion required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery 16 Friday Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or Batty for Bats visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events. Start inside the Discovery Center with a short presentation, then caravan to a differ15 Thursday ent trailhead for a twilight hike, 7:30 p.m. Sensory Play Time For ages 6 and up. Participants must provide Self-paced activities to explore sight, their own transportation. Free, but registratouch, and sound, work on motor skill tion required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery development, and reinforce cooperative Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For play with others, 9:30 a.m. For families with more information, call (518) 456-0655 or children ages 12-36 months. Clifton Parkvisit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events. Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Continued on the next page

Calendar of events

16 Friday (cont.)

Pre-K Stories and STEAM

Turtle Time

Children ages 3-5 can enjoy some stories and do STEAM activities, 10 a.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

17 Saturday Family Fun: A is for Apple A fun-filled walk for the whole family to create your own Five Rivers alphabet booklet by photographing animals, plants and people in action at Five Rivers, until we have a photo for each letter of the alphabet, 10-11 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.

Paws to Read Bring a book or borrow one to read to a gentle dog who loves stories, 2:30 p.m. For grades 1-5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

20 Tuesday Magician Scott Jameson Celebrate the close of Summer Reading with magician and juggler Scott Jameson, 6:30 p.m. Top readers and grand prize winners of the Summer Reading Program will be announced and prizes awarded. For all ages. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

21 Wednesday Kindergarten Readiness A fun-filled and educational evening where soon-to-be-kindergarteners hone their kindergarten-readiness skills at activity/learning centers, 6:30-8 p.m. For those entering kindergarten and their caregivers. Please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

18 Sunday

Let’s Go Camping

Free Film: Despicable Me

Come for tunes and tales around the “campfire” with Diane Payette (aka Grama Tippy-Toes) for this summer favorite, 6:30 p.m. For ages 3 and up and families. Light refreshments will be served. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Summer movies for the whole family, 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Free. GE Theatre at Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 346-6204 or visit www.proctors.org.

19 Monday Magician Jim Snack At the Summer Reading Club grand finale enjoy a performance that will leave you amazed, awed and smiling, 6:30 p.m. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland, NY 12084. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Cohoes Summer Movie Series: The Jungle Book Feature film preceded by pre-show activities; dress as your favorite Jungle Book character will be registered to win a prize, activities at noon; showtime 1 p.m. Free; pick up tickets at box office. Cohoes Music Hall, 58 Remsen St., Cohoes. For more information, call (518) 953-0630.

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Fitting in is Hard. Turning your back on Bullying Isn’t. 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.

Friendship. Kindness. Respect. Compassion.

arent ppages

A reminder from: Capital District

family fun for August

The Resource for Parents

www.parentpages.com

AUGUST 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 21

Calendar of events

family fun for August

21 Wednesday (cont.)

classmates, and enjoy some activities, 6:30 p.m. Also Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland, NY 12084. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Hot Ticket

Elementary Engineers: Paper Bridge Design a bridge made entirely out of paper, 2 p.m. How much weight can it support? For ages 6-10. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

28 Wednesday Turtle Time

22 Thursday Reader Read-In: Beginning Readers Practice reading with a teen volunteer (supervised by one of our literacy experts), or read quietly alone or as a family, 2 p.m. Refreshments available. For grades 1-5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 4399314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

23 Friday Turtle Time

End of Summer Concert with Rick Bedrosian

Altamont Fair One price admission includes parking, attractions, music and unlimited rides. Livestock shows, museums, daily demonstrations in the Farm Machinery Museum, farmers market and vendors. Gates open at 10 a.m.; midway opens at noon. Cost is $15 in advance, $17 Tuesday-Wednesday, and $19 Thursday-Sunday. Altamont Fairgrounds, 129 Grand St., Altamont. For more information, call (518) 861-6671 or visit www. altamontfair.com.

August

13- 18

24 Saturday

475-0291 or visit www.dec.ny.gov/education/1835.html.

Family Yoga Partner with your child in simple, animated poses to help strengthen coordination and build body awareness, 10 a.m. All ages welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Family Fun: Short Talks on Live Critters A series of three short talks featuring live animals, 10-11 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.

Family Fun: Mammal Mayhem Stop in with your questions and your curiosity, Five Rivers environmental educator will be on hand to answer your questions, 2-3:30 p.m. Free. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road Delmar. For more information, call (518)

22 PARENT PAGES — AUGUST 2019

25 Sunday SenseAble Science A sensory friendly science center experience for those with autism and other sensory needs, 10 a.m.-noon. Presented by the Autism Society of the Greater Capital Region, Schenectady ARC, and miSci. Cost $5 for children, $8 for seniors and $10 for adults. MiSci, 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 382-7890 or visit www.misci.org.

Free Film: The Secret Life of Pets Summer movies for the whole family, 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Free. GE Theatre at Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 346-6204 or visit www.proctors.org.

26 Monday Book Bingo Join us for a rousing round of Bingo based upon favorite book characters from picture books and easy readers, 11

a.m. Family program for children ages 4-8. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

27 Tuesday Space Land Like Candy Land, but in space — and life-size, 3 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Celebrate the end of Summer Reading with some family-friendly tunes, 3:30 p.m. OR 6:30 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Kick-off to Kindergarten

Songs, stories, and activities to get your child ready for kindergarten, 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Registration required. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

29 Thursday

DIY False Stained Glass Create an easy faux stained glass project to take home, 2 p.m. For grades 1-5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

30 Friday

31 Saturday

Antlions: Ferocious Creatures in the Sand

Walk approximately one mile to explore antlion pits and investigate antlion larvae up close, 11 a.m. For all ages. Free, but registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For Kindergarten Social more information, call (518) 456-0655 or Come to the library to mingle with future visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.

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