Capital District Parent Pages November 2017 by Spotlight Newspapers

Inside:

November calendar listings

arent pages

Capital District

Volume 21 • Number 11 • NOVEMBER 2017 • Complimentary

The Out-of-sync child How to be thankful An apple snack to gobble up

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A season of gratitude

n November, Thanksgiving is the star of the show.

arent pages

Capital District

Editor’s desk

The Resource for Parents

November 2017 Features

The actual day is more often notable for those awkward family conversations where your relatives reveal your most embarrassing childhood moments to your own children, and then everyone gorges themselves into a stupor. And yet, the idea of thankfulness and gratitude takes hold as soon as we say goodbye to October.

Inspired to write

Columnists

Kids don’t always “get” gratitude. We can forgive this because they are not yet fully formed adults, and it is our job to make that lesson real for them. On Pages 10-11 of this issue, Parent Pages columnist Jennifer Steuer talks about encouraging her children to keep a daily record of the things they are thankful for in the coming year. In that way they can learn more about how blessings come in packages big and small.

Let’s Cook

British Nanny

Acorn Advice

Triple Threat

10-11

We know that often Thanksgiving gatherings can mix feelings of gratitude for the time spent together with a little bit of strife when political discussions come into play. Acorn Advice columnist Julia Cadieux offers some tips for navigating those difficult family situations on Page 9.

What’s new

Finally, I would like to share my gratitude for the many wonderful contributors to Parent Pages. I appreciate the different perspectives your voices bring to this magazine. Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

Feed and Read

*** We always welcome potential cover shots for Parent Pages; email them to me anytime at robertsk@spotlightnews.com. (See guidelines below.) 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.

On the Bookshelf

4 18

Resources Kids fun page Calendar

12 14-18

Kristen Roberts, Editor publisher - John

McIntyre editor - Kristen Roberts advertising sales - Denice Mau art director - David Abbott graphic design - Martha Eriksen

On the cover: Quincy Bellerose LaVallee, 11 months, of Rensselaer, is sitting pretty in this picture submitted by her mother. 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.

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

NOVEMBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 3

On the Bookshelf

New books to be thankful for ‘Thanksgiving in the Woods’

‘When the Moon Comes’

By Phyllis Alsdurf;

By Paul Harbridge;

illustrated by Jenny Lovlie

illustrated by Matt James

This picture book is based on a true story and follows the annual activities of a group of farming friends and family members who gather in the woods of Upstate New York to celebrate Thanksgiving among the trees. Sparkhouse Family

In this atmospheric story, a group of kids play hockey on a frozen lake by moonlight. At once nostalgic and timely, this is a gorgeous book that will speak to readers young and old. Tundra Books

‘It’s Thanksgiving, Chloe Zoe!’ By Jane Smith

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Chloe Zoe is helping Grammy Ella make pie for Thanksgiving. But when the pies turn out awful, Grammy will help Chloe Zoe remember the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Albert Whitman & Company

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Let’s Cook!

Jodie Fitz

Give thanks for apples

elebrate the Capital District’s fall bounty by slicing up some apples, covering them with cinnamon and spreading them out for a fun and deliciously easy dip that the kids can help make. This recipe is a great after-school snack or appetizer for Thanksgiving. It has steps that allow all ages to

be in charge, and if you’re feeling creative, you can even have a little festive fun and turn it into a turkey!

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Apples and dip with Thanksgiving flair

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) helps childcare providers pay for healthy meals and snacks. Visit ChildcareMealsNY.org to learn more.

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Fold the yogurts together with the caramel dip and peanut butter (if desired). Wash, core and slice the apples. Place the apples in a large snap and seal storage bag. Add in the cinnamon, seal the bag and shake

until the apples are coated with the cinnamon. For a Thanksgiving twist (see the photo), place the dip into a small bowl. Use either chocolate chips or raisins to serve as eyes on the dip and cut a small piece of apple to serve as a turkey beak. Place the cinnamon-covered apples around the dip bowl, on a larger plate to serve as turkey feathers and serve as a fun snack. Note: This recipe is great for a lunchbox dessert alternative, after-school snack or as a delicious Thanksgiving pre-dinner bite.

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1 golden delicious apple 1 gala apple ½ teaspoon cinnamon 3 ounces Greek vanilla yogurt 2 ounces vanilla low-fat yogurt 1 tablespoon caramel dip 1 tablespoon peanut butter (optional)

NOVEMBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 5

Capital District

arent pages

British Nanny

When senses are out of sync Sharon Cole by

Diagnosis can be inconsistent, but therapies can work to bring the neurological ‘orchestra’ back in tune

The Resource for Parents

Upcoming Monthly Themes & Deadlines

uestion: My son was born at 31 weeks and spent a month in the

NICU. He’s now 36 months and continues to be an “out of sync” child. He was a difficult baby with an oversensitivity to everything. He never liked to be cuddled. Eye contact has always been inconsistent. He never babbled and appears to have some difficulties understanding things I say to him. His vocabulary is very high, but he has difficulty communicating and is not interested in other children. Physical developmental milestones were all met late. He continues to be very clumsy and bumps into everything. He also never stops moving and often dashes out into the street. His physician was not concerned at his 18-month checkup. We recently had him evaluated by a developmental pediatrician, who diagnosed mild Autism Spectrum Disorder, and a child psychologist who diagnosed a language processing delay. An occupational therapist mentioned sensory integration difficulties. What’s going on?

December The Holidays Theatre Deadline: November 6th

January Winter Sports & Activities Staying Healthy Deadline: December 4th

February Children’s Art & Culture Deadline: January 8th

March Kidz Expo All About Babies/ Family Health Deadline: February 5th

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call

Denice Mau at 439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com 101309_4

6 PARENT PAGES — NOVEMBER 2017

speech matters

nswer: The truth is there is no simple answer. It often depends on who’s looking, and it always depends on what slice of your child they see as they’re looking. A developmental pediatrician will often see spectrum behaviors. An occupational therapist is likely to see sensory integration or processing difficulties. A child psychologist may see all or something completely different. Children with autism often have sensory

Jack was born premature at 32 weeks and has faced sensory processing issues and sensitivities, but a strong support team has helped him face these challenges. difficulties, but children diagnosed with sensory issues don’t necessarily have autism. When my grandson Jack was born at 32 weeks, I cried. For who he was, who he would be and possibly who he wouldn’t be. The crying lessened in the early weeks and the watching began. The love grew. The joy grew … and so did the watching. I watched his sensitivities: the reflux so bad that he had to be fed in tiny amounts upright; the light sensitivity combined with his poor eye muscle control; his sensitivity to sound, especially new sounds; and his love of the ceiling fan – so enthralled was he that the fan was given a name. I watched. My life revolved around helping Jack become all he was supposed to be. Brick by brick, I was determined to help lay the foundation for the house that

Continued on Page 7

British Nanny continued from Page 6 Jack built. It had to be a brick house. Other houses were not as strong, and all the time I was waiting for the big bad wolf: Autism Spectrum Disorder. As a speech language pathologist of 25 years, I’ve seen many children with these clinical signs receive a diagnosis of autism by developmental specialists. I’ve also seen many of those diagnoses turn out to be a combination of a language delay, sensory processing issues and OCD/anxiety. The common denominator was sensory integration difficulties. I worked hard to keep the wolf from Jack’s door, my daughter’s door and my own door. We were always trying to keep a step ahead of the developmental charts. Jack’s development was asymmetrical. He had splinter skills – amazing strengths in early identification of letters, numbers and visual

memory but difficulty with other age-appropriate skills, including social skills. Hugs caused him to stiffen. He also loved routine and got very upset when his routine was off. Ultimately, a developmental specialist believed he saw mild ASD, and a psychologist said she didn’t see any autism, but instead pragmatic language difficulty. The speech pathologist and I saw language processing. Clearly no matter the diagnosis, Jack had difficulty integrating his senses in an immature nervous system. Sensory integration is something most of us do automatically. Usually sensory input gets processed in the central nervous system, and all the senses are seamlessly connected. Preterm birth affects the sensory processing negatively. Being born early as a male puts the child at the greatest risk for sensory processing disorders. Research is showing that these babies have difficulty receiving integrated sensory input, which affects

motor, cognitive and language development. Think of sensory integration as an orchestra. All the instruments need to play their parts in tune, in the correct key, at the right volume and in perfect coordination. With sensory integration dysfunction, the conductor isn’t controlling the music well. Different sections of the orchestra are out of sync . In the womb, your child spends his time curled up and cozy in his dark environment, listening to his mother’s heartbeat and muted sounds from outside. His nervous system is continuing to develop all its nerve connections. When he is born prematurely, his immature, disorganized nervous system isn’t able to handle all the sensory information suddenly overwhelming him. For some children, these sensory issues diminish as they mature. For others, their special needs affect everyday life. For Jack and

your son, these diagnoses are necessary to receive the services they need to be less out of sync and manage life as they grow. At this time Sensory Processing Disorder is still not considered an official diagnosis in the DSM 5. It is therefore not usually covered by insurance. Though a diagnosis of autism is difficult to process, it will open the doors to life-changing therapies and other necessary services you need as a family. Sharon Cole is a speech-language pathologist and proud grandmother based in Albany. She is the owner of Vocally Clear Communications PLLC. Vocally Clear’s goal is to promote effective communication for all ages. She can be reached at Vocallyclear.com or message her at “British Nanny” on Facebook. CORRECTION: In last month’s issues, the photos with this column were misidentified. The boy pictured with his mindfulness stones was Copeland, and the girl watering flowers was Sharon’s daughter Ellie as a toddler.

T hanksgiving W ishes Capital District

arent pages The Resource for Parents

from the staff at 101310_3

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Giving voice to a dream Meryl Day’s work with children in the system inspired her to pen a series of books for kids

eryl Day wears her heart on her sleeve. It’s a characteristic, the Guilderland Central High School graduate admits ruefully, that doesn’t always serve her well at her day job. “I’m a lawyer,” she said recently, “which is just the most miserable job on the planet, as far as I’m concerned.”

Ali Hibbs

A former English major, Day said she realized that she missed the creativity she associated with writing, “the act of creating something.” So she told her husband that she was going to quit her job and start a poetry business. Day called her new endeavor

ing comes easily to me.”

Around the same time, the couple had adopted a rescue cat, and when they got him home, they found out he was 11 years older than they had been told. But, said Day, “He was the most lovable, amazing cat ever. … This cat

LEFT: Day holds a plush version of Jordy the Jaguar. Submitted completely stole my heart.”

returned to law.

They named him Jordy, Jordy the Jaguar. Although his time with Day and her husband was short, while he was still alive, Day was inspired to write about him. She penned a few stanzas, played around with some clip art, and then shared the results with her husband. That, she said, was when she got the idea to write a children’s book — an idea that wouldn’t become reality for another 10 years.

“I thought, well, at least I’ll be helping kids,” she said.

In 2005, Day was given the opportunity for work for the Columbia County Department of Social Services and

We’re online! Be sure to visit our website…

p Capital District

Hearing the ebullient Day describe the challenges of a career in litigation, first in divorce law and then in family law, it becomes clear that she feels keenly the weight of the cases she has argued over the years. In 2004, she said the emotional Poetic Pooch, and wrote pertoll of working in divorce law, a sonalized poetry for pet owners who sent her a photo and a burden she would bring home little information about at the end of the day, wortheir pets. ried her husband and by ultimately caused her “I’m not Keats to reconsider her or anything,” she priorities. said, “but rhym-

ABOVE: The Jordy the Jaguar character was inspired by a cat adopted by author Meryl Day.

During her time at Columbia County, Day heard a case in Rensselaer County and developed a relationship with a judge there. Day reached out to her in 2006, and the judge helped get her appointed to a panel of private practice attorneys who are tapped by the state to represent children on a case-by-case basis. “She saved my life,” Day said. While she wouldn’t return

Continued on Page 13

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growth from within

Acorn Advice

When turkey talk heats up Q

uestion: I’m dreading the holidays because most of

my extended family are Trump supporters, and we always get into politics and it’s a disaster. At last year’s Thanksgiving, I ended up feeling so angry and sad that I swore never again. But I really don’t want to give up on family, and I would feel guilty keeping my kids away from their grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc. Should I just ban politics from our conversations? I don’t even want to go this year.

nswer: I know so many families will be facing this very challenge over the holiday season, so thank you for writing in and expressing what so many are feeling. American politics have become so divisive that re-

spectful dialogue and listening Thanksgiving made you feel? to others with differing views Perhaps you can take walks feels like an antiquated notion. when you need a break. Take For some of us, the family is a some time to think about what microcosm of the larger cultural will support you in that environment and who your allies mood. I am somewhat divided are – your spouse, your sister, on this issue myself but my gut your great aunt Martha. says no, you shouldn’t Maybe let them know shun all discussions by you’re thinking of politics from about this and see family gatherings. what ideas they My preference have. would be for you to set some ground Here’s what it rules for such boils down to for conversations and for me: What do you you to make sure you want to teach your kids? set up self-care strategies for They are watching these famyourself during the time you ily dynamics take place and are with your family. Perhaps learning from them, so what is you can make a request that no that lesson going to be? If the politics are discussed during tone of your family debates is meal times? Perhaps you can argumentative and heated, can let family know how last year’s you teach them how one stays

Julia Cadieux

composed in such a dialogue, speaking their truths while listening to others? If the tone is toxic, insulting or hateful, can you teach them how you set a boundary and call out bullying? You will have to do some thinking before you go to decide what the tipping point is for you. Your first job is ensuring the safety of you and your kids. Hate speech is not to be tolerated and creates an unsafe environment for your children. If it becomes hateful, you do not have to stay. Julia Cadieux, a PCI Certified Parent Coach and Capital District mom, helps other parents look within for the answers they seek and believes there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to child-rearing. Send you questions and comments to julia@ thesupportedparent.com.

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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.

safercar.gov/TheRightSeat

NOVEMBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 9

The art

Holiday is a good chance to reflect on the things we are grateful for all year round

20 di so ed m wi tau an lan

n the month of November, it seems like everyone is making a list of the things that make them thankful. Facebook is filled with posts from people taking the challenge to write something every day until Thanksgiving about things they are grateful for. Twenty-three days of people spreading thoughtfulness and kindness. Rebecca, Olivia and Benjamin are thankful every day for something. A smooth rock, a piece of rope long enough for jumping or mom making everyone’s favorite meal. At the end of every day, Harlan and I like to ask the kids what they are thankful for, and sometimes we are surprised by what makes them happy.

Jennife Steuer

When I finally get to put my head down on my pillow, I often think back over the day. What could I have done differently, what I can do to make life easier for my family, what made me happy, what made me sad, and what part of the day was I most thankful? Honestly, there are times I can’t find one thing to be thankful for other than being alive when the sun comes up. Those nights help me to focus the next day on making at least one thing work in my favor. If I can sneak a hug from each

10 PARENT PAGES — NOVEMBER 2017

bi to id an

parenting triplets in the Capital District

Triple Threat

art of being thankful person (even Ben!), I will be full of gratitude.

November is a difficult month for us. In November 2002, my youngest brother was in a car accident and he died in November 2013. Those days are hard to think of something to be thankful for. It has taken time to put Jared’s accident and death in perspective. My brother made me thankful for one-arm hugs, my ability to torture him with bad jokes and his ability to keep a secret. Jared also taught Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca that wheelchairs and oxygen tanks are nothing to be afraid of, and love is a language that can be shared without words. Rebecca, Benjamin and Olivia were 5 years old when Jared died, but I don’t think he will ever be forgotten. Being thankful should be a year-round practice for everyone. We can all think of one thing every single day that we are thankful for and want to share or remember. If I can get my children to write down one thing they are thankful for every day, they will have a list of 365 good things in their life in a year. I think it is time to start challenging them, especially since their 10th birthday is right around the corner. We will brainstorm together any rules we want to use, like no using the same idea over and over. This will be eye opening for all of us and may even open our hearts a little more.

nnifer euer

Olivia and Rebecca had a goal in pre-kindergarten: Cross the monkey bars. Honestly, I was so nervous about

them trying to cross by themselves. I knew that for them to get all the way across once, they were going to fall many, many times. I also knew that depending on how they would fall, a wrist or ankle fracture was a real possibility. Benjamin wanted no part of the monkey bars. To keep my girls in the right number of pieces, I decided they needed to learn how to fall. In my “official mom” capacity, I decided that falling was just as important as getting across. By kindergarten, Rebecca and Olivia were zipping across and eventually could go across and then back! Life is not an easy road. There will always be someone trying to pull you down. Hopefully there will be more people pulling you up and holding on to you when you need a rest. I’ve seen amazing progress in how Rebecca, Olivia and Benjamin work out their differences. I will always be grateful that they have each other to lean on. I want them to remember that being positive will help them to be grateful and thankful beings. Think about keeping your own gratitude list for 365 days. Looking back might just make you feel more positive. Let’s take each day and create a feeling of gratitude! Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom whose busy household includes her husband, Harlan, and 9-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca. Follow her on Instagram: jennifersteuer.

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n u F s d Ki Page Coloring Fun

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Jordy the Jaguar

was ready to try it anyway.”

continued from Page 8

Day paid for the illustrator and to have her book assembled. The process, she said, “was arduous.” It took more than 10 months before publication in early 2015.

to her literary endeavors for another eight years, the years of experience representing kids in difficult situations has informed the way that Day, who has no children of her own, approaches her children’s books, of which there are now three.

Since that first book, Day has published three more — two more “Jordy” books and a murder mystery that represents the crystallization of another dream: becoming a murder mystery novelist.

In March 2014, Day was going through files to transfer to a new computer when she came across the file containing the stanzas she had written about Jordy. She showed them again to her husband and he suggested that she finish the book. Day finished “Jordy the Jaguar” in under three hours that very day. “The minute I committed to it,” she said, still seeming incredulous. “And I didn’t make any changes to it.” Day eventually connected with Page Publishing and they

accepted her manuscript manuscript. “[The publisher] said I would have fun and that I was going to have a beautiful finished product, but that I wasn’t going to make money on this,” she said. “And I was like, ‘OK!’ It’s been my dream, right? And so I

Last month, Day promoted her latest “Jordy” book at a Barnes & Noble book signing at Colonie Center. In the series,the first book deals with accepting new family members, the second addresses bullying and the third, “Jordy the Jaguar: Fostering A Dream,” deals with the foster care system, something Day has spent the last eight years helping children to navigate. “The heartbreak of a child who knows they might never go

home to their parents is unbearable,” she said with emotion. “Jordy is a bit different in that he never had a home, but it’s just a way to bring up the word and to let kids know that a family could adopt you, that there could be a happy ending.” Day hopes to market her children’s books to organizations, as well as households, that would benefit from talking to kids about the various issues that she covers. She also said she’s interested in doing readings for children in local schools. “Some days I’m motivated, and I’ll call places, and then there are days when I’m so shy and the thought of anyone even reading my books is hard to deal with,” Day said. To aspiring writers, she says, “Don’t get your heart broken. Most large publishing houses don’t take unsolicited manuscripts. Don’t be afraid to selfpublish.”

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Calendar of events

family fun for November

November 1 Wednesday

Pick of the month

ARTfull Afternoons Children ages 5 to 14 are introduced to art in the collection and exhibitions, then explore the concepts they learn in the Art Studio creating their own masterpieces, 2:30 p.m. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www. hydecollection.org.

2 Thursday Lego & WeDo Build with Legos or use WeDo to learn basic coding skills, build a simple motorized project, and make your Lego models come to life, 4-5 p.m. For grade 1 and up. There are a limited number of kits. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary.org.

A 45-minute drop-in session for toddlers ages up to age 36 months to move to music, play with toys, engage in group games, share stories, and make new friends, 10-10:45 a.m. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary. org.

Joe Bruchac: Tales for young and old

Story Art

Storyteller and author Joe Bruchac returns to Bethlehem Public Library for two free family storytelling programs at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. As a professional teller of the traditional tales of the Adirondacks and the Native peoples of the Northeastern woodlands, he has performed extensively throughout the world. Copies of his work will be available for purchase and signing following the program. Because space is limited, this is a firstcome, first-seated event; doors will open 15 minutes prior to the program. This Writers and Friends event is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Library and Bethlehem Senior Projects, Inc. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehem publiclibrary.org.

Toddlers and preschoolers can 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. Free. New York State Museum, 222 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 474-5877 or visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

Nov.

KBA: Kids Builder Association Build your own fun with Legos, Snap Circuits, K’nex, blocks, puzzles, origami and more, 4 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Tours for Tots Children ages 5 and younger learn about a work in the museum, then spend time in the art studio making their own creations, 10:30-11:30 a.m. ree with museum admission of $12.

14 PARENT PAGES — NOVEMBER 2017

Friday Family Films: ‘Spark: A Space Tail’

3 Friday

Spark, a teenage monkey and his friends, Chunk and Vix, are on a mission to regain Planet Bana – a kingdom overtaken by the evil overlord Zhong (PG, 91 min, 2017), 6:30 p.m. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www.guilpl.org.

Preschool Drop-in Storytime

The Albany Auto Show

4 Saturday

Early literacy skills encourage success in school! Join us for stories, songs, and movement, 10:30 a.m. For children ages 3-5 with a caregiver. Younger siblings are always welcome. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 4562400 or visit www.guilpl.org.

A new car event, featuring over 30 different manufacturers and auto-related exhibitors, 3-8 p.m. Cost is $10 for adults; children under 12 are free. Times Union Center, 51 S. Pearl St., Albany.

‘Guess How Much I Love You’ and ‘I Love My Little Storybook’

Family Drop-in Storytime A 45-minute program for children of all ages with an adult to share stories, songs, flannelboards, fingerplays, and crafts, 10-10:45 a.m. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary.org.

Children ages 12 to 36 months and their parents are invited to the Library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books and puzzles, 10 a.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Romp & Read

Drop-in Lego Build All ages Lego building, 6:30 p.m. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www. guilpl.org.

First Friday Friends

Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www.hydecollection.org.

Bedtime Storytime: Starry Night Children 2 and up (with a caregiver) are invited to come in their pajamas and bring a stuffed friend to this cozy outer space storytime just before bed, 6:30 p.m. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more

information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www.guilpl.org.

Teens Care for Veterans Teens can spend their afternoon off making and packaging sweet treats for veterans staying at the Fisher House at the Albany VA. Participants will earn two hours of community service credit. Pizza and beverages will be served, noon2:30 p.m. For students in grades 6 and up; registration required. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www.voorpl.org.

Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia uses its spellbinding storytelling powers – a combination of puppetry, black light effects and music to adapt illustrator Anita Jeram’s “Guess How Much I Love You” and “I Love My Little Storybook,” 11 a.m. Cost is $15 per child; adults in free when accompanied by a child. The Egg Center for Performing Arts, 1 Empire State Plaza, Albany. For more information, call (518) 473-1845 or visit www. theegg.org.

Continued on the next page

family fun for November

Calendar of events

4 Saturday (cont.)

more information, call 602-0237 or visit www.thewonderroomschool.com.

Hot Ticket

Guided Walk: Old Field Trail

7 Tuesday

A hike through the meandering wilds of the Old Field Trail, visiting forest, shrub, prairie and pond habitats while enjoying the fall weather and colors, 10 a.m. Trail distance is about one mile. 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.

Science Festival of he Capital Region Through Nov. 12. A six-day celebration comprised of engaging events for all ages, the festival looks to stimulate curiosity and discovery in the Capital District community while showcasing the rich culture of STEAM in the region. The festival includes hands-on activities, demonstrations, workshops, simulations, stage shows, encounters with practicing scientists, and more. Visit the website for details. Cost is $5-$10 plus regular admission of $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.

What Galls You During this indoor and outdoor presentation, Center naturalists will explain how some insects trigger abnormal growth in certain plants, creating both shelter and food for insect larvae, 2 p.m. 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.

The Gazillion Bubble Show

Nov.

Step into an interactive bubble world and be dazzled by spellbinding lasers, spectacular lighting effects, and jaw-dropping masterpieces of bubble artistry, 3 p.m. Tickets cost $20-$45. Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 346-6204 or visit www. proctors.org.

Wrappin’ for Our Troops

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.-noon. All ages. Free. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 4560655 or visit www.albanypinebush.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 with activities are based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost is admission of $10-$12. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

5 Sunday Children and Families: Biomorphic Sculptures Learn about Alexander Calder’s playful and dynamic sculptures and build your own out of found materials, 1 p.m. Cost is included with admission: $18 adults, $8 ages 5-17, and free for children under 4. Storm King Art Center, 1 Museum Road, New Windsor. For more information, call (845) 534-3115 or visit stormking.org.

Wild and Wiley Turkeys Discover the life of wild turkeys in the Pine Bush and learn about turkey sounds, flight, habitat and the bird that almost became our national symbol, 1-2:30 pm. For all ages. Cost is $3 per person, $5 per family; registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

Knit One Purl One If you’re an experienced knitter, bring your current project. If you’re a beginner, bring size 8 knitting needles; we’ll provide yarn and get you started, 2-3 p.m. For adults, teens and kids age 9 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

6 Monday Homework Helpers Struggling with homework issues? Volunteer honor students from local high schools will tutor school-aged children in all subjects, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. For students in grade 3 and up. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more

information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary.org.

After-school STEM: Ring and Pin Game Native people across North America have been playing a version of this game for centuries. Make your own using materials from nature for the ring and pin, 4 p.m. For grades 1 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Join local performer and educator Diane Payette for songs, stories, flag-folding and gift wrapping in honor of our military, 6:30 p.m. This drop-in program will kick-off the gifts the Town of Clifton Park will send overseas for the holidays to our active duty troops. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Homeschool Library Skills Workshop

Learn important library and research skills at this program for homeschooled Free weekly children’s art class teens in middle and high school, 10 a.m. taught by resident artists of Albany Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Barn. Each week participants will learn Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For new skills and get to create a new piece more information, call 439-9314 or visit of artwork to take home, 6:30-7:30 p.m. bethlehempubliclibrary.org. Free. Stage 1 – Albany Barn, 46 North Read to Furry Friends Swan St., Albany. For more information, call 935-4858 or visit www.albanybarn. Also Wednesday. Reading to a furry org. dog and not so furry cat is a great way for new readers to gain confidence in Messy Monday their new reading skills in a relaxed Children and their grown-ups will setting, 6:30 p.m. Guilderland Public use playdough, clay, shaving cream, Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. paint, bubbles and other ooey gooey For more information, call (518) 456concoctions to make a creative mess, 2400 or visit www.guilpl.org. drop in 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost is $5 per child. The Wonder Room, 896 Saratoga Road (Route 50), Ballston Lake. For

Children’s Art Classes

Continued on the next page NOVEMBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 15

Calendar of events 7 Tuesday (cont.) Owl Prowl A 1.4-mile night hike and learn about the habits of these nocturnal birds and listen for their calls, 5:307:30 p.m. Meet us at the Discovery Center for an indoor presentation then caravan over to the Blueberry Hill West trailhead (#5) for our hike. Participants are responsible for providing their own transportation. For ages 6 and up. Cost is $3 per person, $5 per family; registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

8 Wednesday ARTfull Afternoons Children ages 5 to 14 are introduced to art in the collection and exhibitions, then explore the concepts they learn in the Art Studio creating their own masterpieces, 2:30 p.m. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www. hydecollection.org.

9 Thursday Family Drop-in Storytime A 45-minute program for children of all ages with an adult to share stories, songs, flannelboards, fingerplays, and crafts, 10-10:45 a.m. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call

family fun for November

(518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary. org.

Lego & WeDo Build with Legos or use WeDo to learn basic coding skills, build a simple motorized project, and make your Lego models come to life, 4-5 p.m. For grade 1 and up. There are a limited number of kits. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary.org.

Tours for Tots Children ages 5 and younger learn about a work in the museum, then spend time in the art studio making their own creations, 10:30-11:30 a.m. ree with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www.hydecollection.org.

Preschool Drop-in Storytime Early literacy skills encourage success in school! Join us for stories, songs, and movement, 10:30 a.m. For children ages 3-5 with a caregiver. Younger siblings are always welcome. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www.guilpl.org.

10 Friday Spanish Story Time

Señora Gloria of the Capital Region Language Center will present stories, songs and movement activities in Spanish, 10 a.m. No previous exposure to Spanish necessary. Drop-in program for ages 3 and up accompanied by an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more informa• To have your event included in our tion, call 371-8622 print edition, email the information, or visit www. including date, time, place, cost and cphlibrary.org.

Submit an event

contact information to robertsk@ spotlightnews.com by the 10th of the preceding month. Events run space permitting, and submission does not guarantee publication. 16 PARENT PAGES — NOVEMBER 2017

11 Saturday 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 with activities are based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost is admission of $10-$12. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

Animal Armor A brief indoor presentation and craft followed by a short hike to look for evidence these animals may leave behind, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Plan to walk approximately one-half mile. For families with children 10 and under. Cost is $3 per person, $5 per family; registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Guided Hike: Service Road Loop Trail After passing through old fields and shrubland, we will skirt the edges of ponds and marshes, and then walk through the woods. With a variety of habitats comes the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife. The terrain is flat and the trails are wide, 10 a.m. 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.

Watchable Wildlife: White-Tailed Deer Walk the trails looking for signs of deer and hopefully have the opportunity to watch some, 2 p.m. 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.12

Children and Families: Edgy Engineering Ever wonder how some sculptures seem to defy gravity? Investigate the inner workings of select massive steel works at Storm King, 1 p.m. Cost is included with admission: $18 adults, $8 ages 5-17, and free for children under 4. Storm King Art Center, 1 Museum Road, New Windsor. For more

information, call (845) 534-3115 or visit stormking.org.

13 Monday Homework Helpers Struggling with homework issues? Volunteer honor students from local high schools will tutor school-aged children in all subjects, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. For students in grade 3 and up. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary.org.

Children’s Art Classes Free weekly children’s art class taught by resident artists of Albany Barn. Each week participants will learn new skills and get to create a new piece of artwork to take home, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Stage 1 – Albany Barn, 46 North Swan St., Albany. For more information, call 935-4858 or visit www.albanybarn.org.

Messy Monday Children and their grown-ups will use playdough, clay, shaving cream, paint, bubbles and other ooey gooey concoctions to make a creative mess, drop in 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost is $5 per child. The Wonder Room, 896 Saratoga Road (Route 50), Ballston Lake. For more information, call 602-0237 or visit www.thewonderroomschool.com.

14 Tuesday Supporting LGBTQ Family and Friends Join us for a presentation by the Pride Center of the Capital Region to learn more about the experiences of LGBTQ people of all ages, and leave with tips on how to enrich your role as a friend or family member, 7-8:30 p.m. Teens welcome! Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Homework Helpers Struggling with homework issues? Volunteer honor students from local high schools will tutor school-aged children in all subjects, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Free. For students in grade 3 and up. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

Year-round gratitude The Steuer family makes it a goal to record daily their reasons to be thankful. Pages 10-11

15 Wednesday ARTfull Afternoons Children ages 5 to 14 are introduced to art in the collection and exhibitions, then explore the concepts they learn in the Art Studio creating their own masterpieces, 2:30 p.m. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www. hydecollection.org.

Children ages 5 and younger learn about a work in the museum, then spend time in the art studio making their own creations, 10:30-11:30 a.m. ree with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www.hydecollection.org.

Build with Legos or use WeDo to learn basic coding skills, build a simple motorized project, and make your Lego models come to life, 4-5 p.m. For grade 1 and up. There are a limited number of kits. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary.org.

information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

Dragons Love Tacos Fiesta

Preschool Drop-in Storytime

Come celebrate two roaring good tales of Dragons and tacos and enjoy a make your own taco bar, 12:30-2 p.m. For ages 3-7 with caregiver; registration required. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, call (518) 765-2791 or visit www. voorpl.org.

Saturday Stories: A Whale of a Tale

Interactive program identifies stars, planets, comets and constellations in the night sky, 11 a.m. Geared to children ages 3-7 and their families. $3 all seats. Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center, 25 Quackenbush Square, Albany. For more information, visit www.albany.org.

Wild and Wiley Turkeys

17 Friday

Discover the life of wild turkeys in the Pine Bush and learn about turkey sounds, flight, habitat and the bird that almost became our national symbol, 10-11:30 a.m. For all ages. Cost is $3 per person, $5 per family; registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Romp & Read A 45-minute drop-in session for toddlers ages up to age 36 months to move to music, play with toys, engage in group games, share stories, and make new friends, 10-10:45 a.m. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary.org.

18 Saturday Domino Building Basics Learn the basics of building with dominos with BCHS student Jacob Koplik, 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more

Public Star Party Also Saturday. Amateur astronomers and others are invited to gaze at the night sky, 8 p.m. George Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance. Free. For more information, call (518) 875-6935 or visit landisarboretum.org.

Children’s Star Sighting

Family Drop-in Storytime

Lego & WeDo

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

Tours for Tots

16 Thursday A 45-minute program for children of all ages with an adult to share stories, songs, flannelboards, fingerplays, and crafts, 10-10:45 a.m. William K. Sanford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 458-9274 or visit colonielibrary.org.

Calendar of events

family fun for November

For families with children ages 0-6. Join us for stories, rhymes, puppets, music and movement and more, 2 p.m. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www.guilpl.org.

20 Monday Children’s Art Classes Free weekly children’s art class taught by resident artists of Albany Barn. Each week participants will learn new skills and get to create a new piece of artwork to take home, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Stage 1 – Albany Barn, 46 North Swan St., Albany. For more information, call 9354858 or visit www.albanybarn.org.

Messy Monday

Children and their grown-ups will use playdough, clay, shaving cream, Art for All paint, bubbles and other ooey gooey Adults and children of all ages concoctions to make a creative mess, are welcome to join us in the Albany drop in 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost is $5 per Institute art studio on Saturdays for drop child. The Wonder Room, 896 Saratoga in art making with activities are based Road (Route 50), Ballston Lake. For on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 more information, call 602-0237 or visit p.m. Cost is admission of $10-$12. www.thewonderroomschool.com. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more

Continued on the next page

Get the word out! Check us out at:

100513_4

www.cdparentpages.com

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

100511_4

List your event for parents & children in our calendar section.

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

NOVEMBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 17

Calendar of events

family fun for November

21 Tuesday

24 Friday

Night at the Discovery Center

Double Feature Craft and Cinema

Stop by the Discovery Center after hours and discover the Pine Bush through interactive exhibits, games and more, 4-7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. All ages. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 4560655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

22 Wednesday ARTfull Afternoons Children ages 5 to 14 are introduced to art in the collection and exhibitions, then explore the concepts they learn in the Art Studio creating their own masterpieces, 2:30 p.m. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www. hydecollection.org.

23 Thursday Happy Thanksgiving!

Enjoy a superhero craft and screening of “The Incredibles” (PG, 111 minutes) at 10 a.m., and come back after lunch at 2 p.m. to make a sunny sun catcher and watch “Moana” (PG, 113 minutes). For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

25 Saturday Waddle Walk Work off those yummy holiday treats and get outside for some fresh air and vigorous exercise, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Hike 2.6 miles over rolling terrain through the Karner Barrens East region of the Albany Pine Bush.For ages 8 and up. Cost is $3 per person, $5 per family; registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 4560655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

26 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 with additional funds from sponsors. Cost is $5-$10 plus regular admission of $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.

Oh Deer! An afternoon program on the largest mammal in the Pine Bush beginning with a short introduction to deer anatomy and behavior and then continuing outside with a 0.9-mile hike looking for signs of deer in their habitat, 1-2:30 p.m. For ages 6 and up. Cost is $3 per person, $5 per family; registration required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ Live The classic animated television special comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation featuring all of your favorite characters and classic Vince Guaraldi score, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets cost $20-$50. Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 346-6204 or visit www.proctors.org.

27 Monday Children’s Art Classes Free weekly children’s art class taught by resident artists of Albany Barn. Each week participants will learn new skills and get to create a new piece of artwork to take home, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Stage 1 – Albany Barn, 46 North Swan St., Albany. For more information, call 9354858 or visit www.albanybarn.org.

Messy Monday Children and their grown-ups will

use playdough, clay, shaving cream, paint, bubbles and other ooey gooey concoctions to make a creative mess, drop in 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost is $5 per child. The Wonder Room, 896 Saratoga Road (Route 50), Ballston Lake. For more information, call 602-0237 or visit www.thewonderroomschool.com.

29 Wednesday Drop-In Preschool Movies Families with children ages 3-6 are invited to a series of short, literaturebased films, 10:15 a.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

30 Thursday Preschool Drop-in Storytime Early literacy skills encourage success in school! Join us for stories, songs, and movement, 10:30 a.m. For children ages 3-5 with a caregiver. Younger siblings are always welcome. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit www.guilpl.org.

Feed and Read helps children in need The 2017-2018 Feed and Read program, formerly known as the Albany Weekend Backpack Food Program, supports children in Albany public schools. This year’s program will benefit 625 elementary and middle school children by providing 12 pounds of food to them every Friday afternoon during the academic year. In addition to the food, they will receive a gift card redeemable for milk and, new this year, an

18 PARENT PAGES — NOVEMBER 2017

age-appropriate book will be included as a way for the program to feed the children’s minds as well as providing food for their bodies. “The Feed and Read program continues to help more than 600 elementary and middle school students throughout our city by reducing food insecurity and encouraging reading,” said Mayor Kathy Sheehan, who

thanked HATAS, SEFCU, CDPHP, Albany City Schools, and the Albany Promise for supporting the program. “We are grateful to our partners for helping to feed some of Albany’s neediest children,” said HATAS Executive Director Liz Hitt. “We are humbled by their generosity and by their selfless devotion to the wellbeing of our community.”

The Feed and Read program emerged from a workshop sponsored by the Albany Promise in 2014 and has since grown to become one of the largest weekend food programs in the Capital District. It is the only weekend food program to provide books to its participants and the only program to include a milk card every week, rather than every other week, as is typical in these programs.

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NOVEMBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 19

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20 PARENT PAGES — NOVEMBER 2017