Capital District Parent Pages - May 2019 by Spotlight Newspapers

Inside:

2019 Summer Camp Listings

arent pages

Capital District

Volume 23 • Number 5 • MAY 2019 • Complimentary

Fostering communication

The Resource for Parents

Study tips for middle schoolers Frugality is its own reward

cdparentpages.com MAY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 1

YOUR ADVENTURE AWAITS! YMCA SUMMER CAMPS

• NEW Specialty Camps • FREE Before and After Camp Care • Swim Lessons • Field Trips • Fun Weekly Themes

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BETTER TOGETHER — The Capital District YMCA is a leading Capital Region charity.

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CAPITAL DISTRICT YMCA 518.869.3500 • CDYMCA.org

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A day for moms to have fun or relax Also, our summer camp list helps you get your vacation schedule in place

ey moms, what do you want to do on your special day this year? Because I’m a sucker for the carnival of color, crafts, music and food that is Tulip Fest, you will most likely find me in Washington Park on Mother’s Day (or at least the day before). Check out our calendar at the back of this issue for more exciting Mother’s Day activities, but don’t overlook the option of doing absolutely nothing that day either. It’s not very often that moms can get a day off! The second installment of our annual summer camp guide can be found in this issue on pages 12-13. We put out these guides to highlight all the great ways kids can spend their summers learning and growing. We believe the summer camp opportunities out there offer a lot of value for your hard-earned dollar. Our summer camp list is also online and includes links to the camps’ websites to make your research that much easier (or difficult when it comes to narrowing down all the great choices out there). If money is tight, there are a number of town-sponsored camps throughout the Capital District that offer enrichment, sports and educational options at a great value to residents. Check with your parks and recreation department to learn more. Also, keep an eye out for the summer reading programs at your local library if you are looking for even more ways to stay busy.

p Capital District

Editor’s desk

arent pages The Resource for Parents

May 2019 Features Jodie Fitz’s ‘Fidget’

14-15

Columnists 24-Hour Shift Triple Threat

5 6-7

Show Money Who’s Boss

The Learning Center

What’s new On the Bookshelf

Resources 2019 Summer Camps

12-13

Calendar 17-22

Finally, I’d like to wish all my fellow moms out there a truly Happy Mother’s Day! *** 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: Alejandra, 2, of Watervliet, is sitting pretty in this photo submitted by her mom, Jessica. Her family was the winner of the Great Escape Lodge getaway in the 2019 Cover Contest. 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

MAY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 3

On the Bookshelf

Mayday! Mayday! Time to read ‘Mom and Me, Me and Mom’

‘When You’re Scared’

By Miguel Tanco

By Andrée Poulin;

Whimsical illustrations capture the poignant moments that make motherhood so special: pinning up a daughter’s hair, getting messy during playtime, reading quietly side by side, and, above all, cherishing precious moments together. Chronicle Books

illustrated by Veronique Joffre A young camper’s fear of the water is mirrored in the anxieties of a bear cub who reluctantly climbs into a dumpster, looking for food, before becoming trapped and requiring the help of compassionate humans. Owlkids Books

‘Spend It!: A Moneybunny Book’ By Cinders McLeod Sonny gets three whole carrots a week for his allowance and wants to buy everything with it, but he soon discovers his money won’t go that far, and his mom tells him he needs to make some choices. Nancy Paulsen Books

LEAP

SUMMER CUSTOMIZED FOR YOU! ENTERING GRADES 3-8

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Learn more at AlbanyAcademies.org

2019

Ages 3-12

June 24 - August 23 Woodland Hill Montessori School 100 Montessori Place • North Greenbush

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Sports • Arts • Leadership Science • Adventure Day Camp • And More! lunch & snack provided!

Woodland Hill welcomes you to play, cook, create, and invent! Become a nature explorer, lean yoga poses, create with clay, connect with your inner musician, investigate outer space, and try coding!

Space is limited. Register today! 518.283.5400 woodlandhill.org

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summer camps

parenting is a full-time job

Theresa Davis

The 24-hour shift

Don’t stifle contact Adoptive and foster families should define communications parameters

o you’ve gotten settled with your foster or adopted child in your home, and they have reached an age when they wants their own phone. What is the first thing they might do? Talk to their birth family, or try to find them. Wait, what? Can your foster child do that? You may think, the child has been happy with us for all this time, why are they looking for their birth family? If you are concerned about your foster child talking to their birth parent, talk to your case workers, your child’s law guardian, or other member of your foster/adoptive team. Always ask about any contact orders that may be in place and what the consequences are if either the birth family or the child violate the order. Consider safety. Information the child may give to the parent, such as an address or phone number, may not be information you want birth families (or anyone else) to know yet. Be firm in what information can be given out on social media. If possible, communicate with the birth family. Discuss how and when your child can contact them. Explain the circumstances to your child, and talk about how as a foster/ adoptive parent you have rules and laws you need to follow

to keep them safe, especially if there is a no contact order. Keeping your foster child away from social media is not a practical option. Even if you take away every phone and computer in the house, they can use their friends’ phones or any phone or computer they can find. Keeping an open dialogue with your child and their birth family is the best way to combat sneaking online. In this way, it will help you monitor what is going on during online chats. Foster parents should always encourage communication between their foster child and their birth families when it’s possible. Like it or not, they will always love and miss each other. Adopted children may wonder how their birth families are doing or what they’re like. It’s an occupational hazard of being an adoptive parent.

at RPI! Swimming, arts and crafts, nature walks, sports, drama, field trips ... SamaritanRensselaer Children’s Center Discovery Day Camp has it all!

June 27 - August 29 6:30 am - 5:30 pm • For children entering Kindergarten through age 12. • Full and part-time enrollment. • Located on the campus of RPI. • Fees include all trips, supplies and two snacks daily. Campers bring their own lunch. • Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, or to register, call Deirdre or Kristina at (518) 271-3748. Or go to sphp.com/childrens-day-care-sam.

Making sure your child is safe and following protocols while on social media is an important way to help your child during this difficult time in their lives. 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.

Presented by:

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Triple Threat

parenting triplets in the Capital District

The Steuer triplets may not love doing chores, but they are learning how helping out is an important part of keeping a household running smoothly.

What a chore! It’s all hands on deck in when it comes to keeping up the Steuer household

hores are a good way of helping kids feel like a valuable part of the family (or just irritate them). We definitely share chores in our family in order to get all the work done.

a mom must be ruthless, crafty and organized.

There are so many different ways to do chore lists, charts, wheels or whatever. In by the beginning, I didn’t care just as long as the work got done. With the three kids, When Benjamin, Olivia and Rebecca we have a three week rotating schedule were cute little 6-year-olds they had cute for chores. Right now, the weeks are little chores like putting napkins at everystill handwritten because we are still in one’s place at the dinner table or putting the the stage of adjusting what might be too placemats away. Now they are big 11-yearmuch work some weeks. Some chores that olds that need 11-year-old chores. Except that rotate are: sweeping various rooms, loading the 11-year-olds aren’t as eager to be “Mommy’s little helpdishwasher, setting and clearing the table. There are ers” anymore. All 11-year-olds want to do is eat, sleep no jobs that only Ben gets other than putting away his and do “whatever it is that annoys others.” To get help, Continued on Page 7

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Jennifer Steuer

n Triple Threat continued from Page 6 laundry. He takes out the garbage, recycling and compost, and so do Olivia and Rebecca. A weekly rotation helps with minimizing the feeling that they are stuck doing the same thing for too long. I like having the weeks written down so that Harlan, my mom and I know who is doing what. There are some chores that aren’t on a rotating basis because they are for each individual: make the bed, take care of belongings and basic self-care. These are spelled out at this point. If I don’t tell those space cadets to brush their teeth every morning and every night, they would probably forget for a good long time. The outdoor work is hard to divide sometimes because of blizzards or an overly wet or dry summer. Sometimes “extra work” can’t be avoided because mowing the lawn and taking care of the clippings has to be done as one job. We have gotten good at dividing up who takes care of what parts when we have snow. None of us like getting cold, dirty, dusty and hot, but if we work together, the work gets done faster and we can get to the point where we are able to enjoy the day. School, including Hebrew School, is always a priority. Homework beats housework. When Rebecca, Olivia and Benjamin give us grief about doing chores and ponder how lucky their ancestors may have had it, a quick reminder that at least they don’t have to build pyramids all day, every day makes them quite happy. After my initial shock from hearing that NONE of their peers had to do chores, I did a quick poll on Facebook and found out that every adult who answered did have chores for their kids. I also found out that chores did not guarantee an allowance. My kids don’t earn money for their chores. My kids do work because they live in a house with a family and as a family, we all do the work. All of it.

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.

When Rebecca, Olivia and Benjamin give us grief about doing chores and ponder how lucky their ancestors may have had it, a quick reminder that at least they don’t have to build pyramids all day, every day makes them quite happy.

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Making family finances work for you Gerard Bialek photo

Show Money Who’s Boss

Redefine rewarding

don’t think of myself as a material person. I’m not a big shopper. I don’t need to spend a lot of money to be happy. And yet… I’m always overspending. So what does this mean? Am I lying to myself? Here’s where things stand for me financially: Last fall, I made a big push to turn my situation around and get a handle on my money. I had it all figured out with a budget that I vowed to actually stick to, and it was going along fine. Swimmingly. And then, something weird happened.

security has started to lead me astray. I’ve got this, I think to myself. What difference does it really make if I spend beyond my budget here or there?

A big difference, as it turns out. I’ve dipped into the by savings I’m A big difsupposed to be ference, as it stretching. And turned out. I keep trying My debt grew. to rationalize this problem When I made away. It’s not a serious decision that much. I’ll to stop adding to it make it up later. It and actually pay it off, I doesn’t count because it’s felt great. My money was unnot on a credit card; I only der control. I had a newfound owe it to myself. sense of financial security. Hmm. I owe it to myself. But a few months in — surDon’t I owe it to myself to prise, surprise — that sense of police this situation before it

Heather E. Schwartz

gets out of hand again? I have to admit, overspending can be incredibly gratifying in the moment. Last week, I treated myself to French toast and coffee at the diner after volunteering at my son’s school all morning. This was not in my budget. I recently started taking voice lessons during my other son’s ukulele lessons. This isn’t in my budget either. But now, instead of feeling like his personal chauffeur, I feel like a person in my own right, using the time I used to waste in the waiting area to learn and grow myself. Does wanting these things and these experiences make me a material person? A big shopper? Someone who needs

Continued on Page 9

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In the past, I blamed overspending on not having things

in order. When you feel like your money is out of control, it’s easy to slide into a slippery slope of denial. I’m in debt already, I used to think to myself, what difference does it make if I add on another $25 here or there?

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continued from Page 8

What I can afford — if I’m careful, if I stick to my budget, if I’m honest with myself — is something I want just as much as anything I could purchase: financial security. Maybe I want it even more.

to spend a lot of money to be happy? The real problem with these questions is that they’re all laced with a tinge of judgement, designed to force a defensive response. They’re a distraction. Because spending habits and decisions aren’t measurements of anyone’s moral fiber or worthiness. We all want things we can’t afford. When I think about that in a judge-y way, I find myself stuck. I have to keep overspending because don’t I deserve all those things? And wouldn’t stopping be some sort of admission of guilt? But when I can say that to myself without judgement — I want things I can’t afford — it feels more like just a fact of life. I want things. I can’t afford

I hope so. Because I’m pretty sure controlling my money isn’t only about willpower. My success at this also hinges on seeing financial security as its own reward, one that’s just as satisfying as hot buttered French toast dripping with maple syrup and a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee prepared in a kitchen that isn’t mine. 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.

It’s not wrong to want things you can’t afford, but it doesn’t mean you should buy them. Budgeting success hinges on seeing financial security as its own reward

www.Mopco.org/youth

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

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

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them. So I can’t have them.

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n Show Money

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Learning Center

Six smart study skills

re you dealing with tears at homework time? Again? Middle school can be a difficult time, full of changes for students — bigger schools, bigger workloads. Parents tell us that simply asking, “Do you have any homework tonight?” can be enough to trigger a meltdown in their kids. There is hope. Middle school is a great time to develop study habits that will help them through their academic career well beyond middle school. This is an age where their brains are ready to absorb and act as a sponge. Homework may not be at the top of your child’s priority list, particularly when middle school offers new activities,

athletics or social opportunities. attack the work ahead of them, Sometimes it will be simple make a checklist. Begin with and fun, but most of the time the hardest. This will get it out homework is just another task of the way. Have them set a a kid must get done instead of timer for 15 or 20 minutes and playing video games or hanging then offer a break. After that out with friends. It’s up move on to a less difficult to Mom and Dad to subject. help their child set by 2. Keep them up the structure in their seats to get it all done. — with incenHere are six tives. Allow smart study skill students some tips for middle fun at their schoolers: desk or offer an incentive to push 1. Rate the subjects them forward on their — and build in breaks. Talk studies. Maybe it’s a bottle of with your child about which polish to paint a nail or two as subjects are easiest and which they complete assignments or are most difficult, says Kima fidget spinner. Maybe allow berly Ewing, a middle school time playing video games, or academic skills instructor. Once on their phone once they finish they know how they’re going to math.

Patrick McNamara

Witness the magic of spring!

May 18, 10am-4pm

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4. Highlight. Teach students to highlight key points on a subject. In the early stages they may need to read first, and then go back and re-read to see what those key points are. But over time they’ll understand what key points are important. The

Continued on Page 11

Summer

F U N WI T H M U S I C

Let’s Begin

• Music with The WhipperSnappers and B95.5 • Live Wildlife Programs • Craft & Food Vendors • Meet the Lupine Lady • Nature Activities with Community Partners • Wildland Fire Trucks • Face Painting • Make Your Own Tie-dye Shirt • Storywalk & Guided Tours • Photo Booth • And MORE • All ages • FREE!

Singing • Keyboard Ensemble Rhythm • Ear Training

Join us at one of our Open Houses!

ages 3-7

Sunday, May 5 • 1:00pm Monday, May 13 • 7:00pm

Please call

518-459-7799

Parking at 302 Washington Ave. Ext. Shuttle bus provided.

for more information

AlbanyPineBush.org 10 PARENT PAGES — MAY 2019 2019 Lupine Fest.indd 1

3. Create fun study guides. Have students use questions from text books or homework as prompts. Parents can help kids make their own study guides on subjects where they need an extra boost. Websites like Quizlet or Kahoot also make it easy for parents and students to customize online games that are both relevant to their own school work — and fun. Make it a game, and a fun way to review.

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Education insight for parents

3/4/2019 11:51:28 AM

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

40 years

TheMusicStudio.com 1237 Central Avenue • Albany, NY

n Learning Center continued from Page 10 goal is to hone in on the critical details. 5. Use a planner. Research says, that the processing of using your hand to write something down helps kids remember it. A good old fashion planner is ideal, but some may prefer to download an organizational app to keep all their assignments and deadlines in order. To encourage a paper planner make it fun for them, let them shop around for something they think looks cool. Have them manage their own homework assignments, extracurricular activities, project due dates, and even their friend’s birthday. 6. Assess, then look ahead. At the end of each week, take some time to talk to your child about how things went at school and what’s coming up. Ask them what their plan is to stay ahead and if they

need help offer some advice. The goal, of course, is to get the best study skills you can with the least amount of drama and nagging. Sometimes that means outside help. Homework battles can wreak havoc on an entire family. While we all want to be there for our kids and help them through difficult situations, taking emotions out of the equation can make all the difference. Instead of fighting with your child each night about finishing a project or stressing about not understanding the math homework, academic coaches and tutors can provide outside support. By acting as a neutral third party, parents can support their child in a more effective way while the student learns skills they can use for the rest of their lives. Patrick McNamara is the Executive Director of Sylvan Learning of Albany and Clifton Park, which provides tutoring services and academic coaching (www.SylvanLearning.com).

Most of the time homework is just another task a kid must get done instead of playing video games or hanging out with friends. It’s up to Mom and Dad to help their child set up the structure to get it all done.

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 | 109152_4

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2019 Summer Camp Listings

Narrow down your choices today Capital District camp options from A to Z AFRIM’S Sports Camps Youth Programs, Soccer Camps, Action Camps, Youth Leagues. 636 Albany Shaker Road, Albany Call (518) 438-3131 or visit www.AfrimSports.com

Albany Academies Customized summer programs. For students entering grades 3-8. 135 Academy Road, Albany Call (518) 429-2332 or visit www.AlbanyAcademies.org

Albany Berkshire Ballet Summer dance camps and intensives for ages 4 to adult, beginner to professional. 25 Monroe St., Albany Call (518) 426-0660 or visit www.SchoolofABB.org

Albany JCC Summer Camp Experience summer fun for ages 3-15 with

water sports, the arts, science, specialty camps and more. 340 Whitehall Road, Albany Call (518) 438-6651 or visit www.AlbanyJCC.org

Bethlehem Children’s School Weekly adventure-filled camps for children ages 2.5-10 with art, science, outdoor education and more. 12 Fisher Blvd., Slingerlands Call (518) 478-0224 or visit www.BethlehemChildrensSchool.org/ wordpress/summer-camp

Brown School Day camp open to the public for ages 3 to 14 with arts, crafts, sports, weekly themes, Specialty camp options and more. 150 Corlaer Ave., Schenectady Call (518) 370-0366 or visit www.BrownSchool.org

Camp Scully Summer Camp Day and overnight summer programs, with a wide variety of outdoor activities for ages 5-16. Call (518) 512-3577 or visit www.CampScully.camp

Capital District YMCA Over 12 locations with day camps to overnight camps to specialty camps, field trips and weekly themes. Call (518) 869-3500 or visit www.CDYMCA.org

Castle Island Bilingual Montessori Spanish immersion summer camp for ages 3-9 with cooking, art, soccer and more. 10 N. Main Ave., Albany Call to register (518) 533-9838 or visit www.CastleIslandMontessori.org

Circle of Friends Preschool

(Location in Ravena, too) Call (518) 478-0722 or visit www.CircleofFriendsPrek.com

Club Scientific Colonie Classes and camps throughout the Capital District for pre-K to teens. Call (518) 479-9888 or visit www.Colonie.ClubScientific.com

Colonie KidzArt Classes and camps throughout the Capital District for pre-K to teens. Call (518) 479-9888 or visit www.Colonie.KidzArt.com

College of Saint Rose Summer Academy Weeks of fun and learning for students in grades 6-10. 432 Western Ave., Albany Call (518) 454-5144 or visit www.StRose.edu/summeracademy

Summer camp for ages 3-5 year olds. 2 Bethlehem Court, Delmar

Continued on Page 13

Animal Learning Lab Summer Camp for Ages 6-11

Stand for Integrity.

Come to the Humane Society for hands-on summer learning about animals, plus many other fun activities!

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

www.mohawkhumane.org 3 Oakland Avenue, Menands

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Friendship. Kindness. Respect. Compassion. 109162_4

arent ppages

A reminder from: Capital District

Camps run Monday-Friday in July and August Just 10 kids per session. Sign up today!

The Resource for Parents

www.cdparentpages.com

2019 Summer Camp Listings

n Camp listings continued from Page 12

Drama Kids International Weekly full and half-day summer camps held in the Capital District for ages 4-11. Call (518) 458-1313 or visit www.DramaKids.com

E.N. Huyck Preserve and Biological Research Station

and more. 398 Feura Bush Road, Glenmont Call (518) 598-9932 or visit www.InspirationalMovementDance.com

Merritt Dance Center Summer dance camp. 1360 Albany St., Schenectady Call (518) 372-5282 or visit www.MerrittDanceCenter.com

Ohav Shalom Nursery School

Outdoor science, exploration, and fun for K-12 students. Explore the Huyck Preserve. 284 Pond Hill Road, Rensselaerville (518) 797-3440 or visit www.huyckpreserve.org/summer-programs Email: Education@huyckpreserve.org

Summer weekly themed camp for pre-school kids ages 18 months to 5 years old Full or part-time availability. 113 New Krumkill Road, Albany Call Sheryl at (518) 489-4894 or visit www.OhavShalom.com/Early-Childhood

Hudson Valley Community College Kids on Campus

Orlando School of Dance

Summer program with athletics, Circus Theatricks, cooking, Legos, theater, Minecraft and so much more. www.HVCC.edu/kidscamps.com

Inspirational Movement Dance Offering mini sessions and morning camps with tap, ballet, Pilates, jazz, modern

Summer workshops and summer fun dance camp for ages 4 to 9 years. 1765 State St., Schenectady, NY Call (518) 393-7827 or visit www.OrlandoDance.com

Rosa Venerini Early Childhood Center: Summer Safari Summer program for ages 3-11 years old

with themed weeks, STEAM learning and activities and more. 1840 Van Vranken Ave., Schenectady Call (518) 372-5961 or visit www.RosaVenerini.com

Samaritan-Rensselaer Children’s Center: Summer Fun at RPI For kids entering kindergarten through age 12 with swimming, arts and crafts, sports, drama, field trips and more. Full or part-time. Located on the campus of RPI Call (518) 271-3748 or visit www.SPHP.com/childrens-day-care-sam.

Temple Israel: Herman and Libbie Michaelson Early Childhood Education Center Summer fun program for kids under 5 with creative play and activities. 600 New Scotland Ave., Albany Call Amie at (518) 438-7858, ext. 120 or Email AmieBloom@tialbany.org or visit www.tialbany.org

The Arts Center of the Capital Region

pottery, stained glass, jewelry making, game design, photography and more. Full or part-time. 265 River St, Troy. Call (518) 273-0552 or register online at www.ArtsCenteronline.org

The MOPCO Improv Theatre Summer improv theater for ages 7-17. 10 N. Jay St., Schenectady Call 518-577-6726 or visit www.Mopco.org/youth

The Music Studio Summer fun with music for ages 2-7; piano camp for pianists ages 9 and up. 1237 Central Ave., Albany Call (518) 459-7799 or visit www.TheMusicStudio.com

Woodland Hill Montessori School Summer day camp for ages 3-12 with fun and creative play, arts and exploration. 100 Montessori Place, North Greenbush Call (518) 283-5400 or visit www.WoodlandHill.org

Summer camps for kids ages 6-17 with

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MAY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 13

Let’s Cook!

Can you really

Local author and kids cooking guru says it’s easy to g

Fidget is based on Jodie’s own daughter, who was 4 years old when the two of them grew a pizza garden.

14 PARENT PAGES — MAY 2019

ongtime Parent Pages columnist and Capital District mom Jodie Fitz’s book “Fidget Grows a Pizza Garden is all about knowing where your food comes from. It also teaches kids that veggies aren’t the enemy – in fact one of the most kid-friendly foods (pizza!) is nothing without vegetables.

Parent Pages recently caught up with Jodie to talk a little bit more about the book, its lessons and how easy it is to start a “pizza garden” of your own. PARENT PAGES: How did the idea for “Fidget Grows a Pizza Garden” come about? JODIE FITZ: “Fidget Grows a Pizza Garden” was inspired by an experience with my own daughter, who I nicknamed My Little Miss

Let’s Cook!

plant a pizza?

grow the components of everyone’s favorite food Fidget. We planted a patio garden and called it our pizza garden when she was 4 years old. I found it humorous when her very literal 4-year-old mind was truly disappointed when the garden didn’t grow pizza! I wrote the story shortly after the experience, and it stayed in a folder until approximately five years ago, when the book development process began. PP: Can you tell us a little bit about who Fidget is? JF: Fidget is a curious young girl with an active imagination. PP: What are the key components of a pizza garden? JF: In the book, I included tomatoes, oregano, basil and parsley for the sauce, and peppers for the top of the pizza. You can expand on what’s in your own pizza garden based on what your family likes on your pizza. PP: Are pizza gardens doable in smaller spaces? JF: All of Fidget’s pizza-growing activities in the book take place on her back patio in planters. You do not need a large garden space to plant a pizza garden. PP: What is the most important message you hope kids and families take away after reading this book? JF: Actually, I think there are three subtle messages in the book: the importance of spending time together, understanding where our food comes from (farm to table), and realizing that we may eat fruits and vegetables we think we don’t like alone in a recipe. For more information about the book “Fidget Grows a Pizza Garden” along with activities and recipes, visit Jodie’s website (www.jodiefitz.com). You’ll also find a calendar of locations where she will be visiting communities and sharing her book this spring, summer and fall. At her author visits, she is either planting pizza gardens with children or making pizzas. Sponsors of her 2019 tour include Saratoga Sod, Primo Sauce, Saratoga Olive Oil and Cabot Cheese.

Catch up with Jodie during one of her many stops throughout the Capital District this summer as she promotes “Fidget Grows a Pizza Garden” with gardening and cooking demos.

Monster Pizza Fun Flatbread pizza crusts Bell peppers, sliced Olives, sliced Mini pepperoni, turkey Flavored Olive Oil Tomato sauce Shredded mozzarella cheese Add your family’s other favorite veggies like grape tomatoes, onions, broccoli, etc. Create an assembly line of sauce and toppings. Place your pizza crusts on a baking sheet that’s been coated with olive oil. Add pizza sauce to the crust, add a layer of shredded cheese and use the toppings to create your own personal pan monsters. Bake your personal pan monsters at 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes. Let the monsters cool slightly and then enjoy your delicious creation!

MAY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 15

Things That Go!

n u F s d i K e g Pa

ship airplane bicycle helicopter truck bus jeep submarine van boat car jet train

Coloring Fun

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HAVE 16 PARENT PAGES — MAY 2019

FUN!!!

Calendar of events

1 Wednesday Family Storytime Engage in stories, music, crafts and play, 10:30 a.m. For ages 0-5. Troy Public Library, 100 2nd St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 274-7071 or visit www.thetroylibrary.org.

Don’t Be Bored Games Play board games in the Young People’s Room, 5 p.m. For all ages. Troy Public Library, 100 2nd St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 274-7071 or visit www.thetroylibrary.org.

The Prince and Princess in Me Build self esteem, self love, and self respect, and learn how to care for others, and how to be respectful, 5-7 p.m. Free. For boys and girls age 4-12. Electric City Barn, 400 Craig St., Schenectady. Call (518) 491-6162 or email mdam@mdamweb.com for more information.

Library Friends Play Time Children and their parents are invited to the library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books and puzzles, 1:15 p.m. For ages 3-6. This is a drop-in program, no registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

2 Thursday Community Night Meet the organizations, clubs and services that help your city, 5-8 p.m. First responder vehicles on display. Refreshments served. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-18. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Library Tots Enjoy lap bounces, choral book reading and action rhymes and songs all focused on developing your baby’s skills, 10 a.m. For newborns to 36 months old. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Open Playtime

WHO ACTUALLY DO.

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

SCAP Early Head Start Child Care Partnerships

Pajama-Rama

(EHS-CCP)

THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE

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

WHO THINK

Enjoy some fun and stories before bedtime, 7 p.m. Up to age 6 with family. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

THEY HAVE THEIR CHILD IN THE RIGHT SEAT.

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

3 Friday Matilda the Musical Also Saturday and Sunday. Saratoga Children’s Theatre presents the story of Matilda, a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers who’s unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey, 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $5-$15. Saratoga Springs High School- Loewenberg Auditorium, 1 Blue Streak Boulevard, Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit saratogachildrenstheatre.org.

Screen-Free Family Fun Night

KNOW FOR SURE

IF YOUR CHILD IS IN THE RIGHT CAR SEAT.

518.377.2015

913 Albany St. • Schenectady

Summer camp

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Initials

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An evening of family storytime, reading, games, minute-to-win-it challenges, and much more, 6 p.m. Please bring a potluck dish to share; the library will provide beverages and dessert. For children in grades K-8Fonts: andImages: Placed families. Please register at the Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville,Notes: www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Date

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Story Art Enjoy the Museum by listening to a story, exploring objects from the teaching collection and creating a fun art project, 11 a.m. For toddlers and preschoolers. Free. New York State Museum, Albany. For more information call (518) 474-0079 or visit www.nysm. nysed.gov.

Campers explore science, art, outdoor education, creative movement, music, and more!

Library Friends Play Time

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S. Gordon Henry N. Chambers S. Lundberg None Production Manager J. Adler-Kerekes Account Executive S. Pollitt Client Ad Council Studio Manager Proofreader Art Director Copywriter Creative Director

Weekly Adventure-Filled Camps for Children Ages 2.5-10

None

Children and their parents are invited to the library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books and puzzles, 9:10 a.m. For ages 12 to 36 months. This is a drop-in program, no registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary. org.

Give us a call today.

VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/THERIGHTSEAT

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May

CHOOSE CAR SEAT: BY AGE & SIZE

THE ONES

12 Fisher Blvd., Slingerlands, NY 108581_4

family fun for May

518-478-0224 www.bethlehemchildrensschool.org/wordpress/summer-camp MAY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 17

Capital District

arent pages

Calendar of events 4 Saturday I Love My Park Day Projects will include trail clean-up, light maintenance, tree planting, and invasive species removal, 10 a.m. All ages welcome. 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 Resource for Parents

Learn to Fish Day in Clifton Park

Upcoming Monthly Themes & Deadlines

This is a public, free, sport-fishing event, with no freshwater fishing license required if participating in the event. Bring your own equipment or borrow from the NYS DEC during the event, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Barney Road Pond, 1 Barney Road, Clifton Park.

June Father’s Day

Family Yoga with Tricia Yoga, meditation, breath work and lots of kidding around, 10 a.m. For children in grades K-8 with caregiver. No yoga experience is necessary; bring a mat or a towel. Please register at the Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville, www.voorheesvillelibrary. org or call (518) 765-2791.

Adolescents Saratoga County: Parenting Resources Deadline: May 6th

July Summer Fun & Travel

Summer Birthdays Schenectady County: Parenting Resources Deadline: June 3rd

May the Fourth be with you! Calling out to all young Jedis, come to the library, make a lightsaber and then test your Jedi skills, 1 p.m. For ages 5-12. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

5 Sunday Discover the Pine Bush

August

Take a journey into the Albany Pine Bush, a globally rare, nationally significant and locally distinct inland pine barrens, on a guided 0.9mile hike over rolling sand dunes, 10:30 a.m. For all ages. Free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Child Care Guide & After School Activities (Part1) Planning Back To School Deadline: July 8th

6 Monday

September

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

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call

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

Star Wars Day

an art activity, 10 a.m. For ages 2 to 5 with caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Pre-K Storytime Drop-in storytime for ages 2-6, 11 a.m. Siblings welcome. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

8 Wednesday Library Friends Play Time Children and their parents are invited to the library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books and puzzles, 1:15 p.m. For ages 3-6. This is a dropin program, no registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Family Storytime Engage in stories, music, crafts and play, 10:30 a.m. For ages 0-5. Troy Public Library, 100 2nd St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 274-7071 or visit www.thetroylibrary. org.

PJ Story Time

The Story Corner

A quiet story time for working parents to spend with their children. Children, ages 2-6, along with their families are encouraged to wear their pajamas, 6:15 p.m. This is a drop in program; no registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Children will create real world connections as they familiarize themselves to new vocabulary words, repeat rhymes to fun fingerplay rhymes, use their imagination to act out a narrative, and use their creativity as they craft a piece of artwork based on the story of the day, 11-11:30 a.m. Free with museum admission. The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 584-5540 or visit cmssny.org.

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family fun for May

Books, rhymes, songs, a short video, and

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family fun for May

9 Thursday Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-18. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Library Tots Enjoy lap bounces, choral book reading

and action rhymes and songs all focused on developing your baby’s skills, 10 a.m. For newborns to 36 months old. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Open Playtime Newborns to 30 months old can enjoy some open playtime with their caregivers and other babies and toddlers, 10:30 a.m. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesville library.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Submit an event

10 Friday Breakout EDU

• 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.

Like an Escape Room, you will use puzzle-solving skills to unlock the box before time is up, 3:30 p.m. 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 bethlehempublic library.org.

Calendar of events

11 Saturday Albany Tulip Fest 2019 Also Sunday. The event includes nearly one hundred artisans selling their handmade crafts, a fine arts show, delicious food, the KidZone family fun destination, two stages of worldclass live entertainment and more than 140,000 tulips in 150 different varieties. Free. Washington Park, Albany.

I Bird NY: Birds and Breakfast Join members of the Hudson-Mohawk Bird Club as they welcome the arrival of spring with early morning bird walks at 6, 7 and 8 a.m. followed by a 10:30 a.m. breakfast. Free, but donations welcome. 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.

Beginning Birding Discuss how to use binoculars, birding apps, and books to identify birds then head outside to practice your newfound knowledge, 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.

Paper Floral Bouquet Workshop Learn how to craft a lovely floral bouquet from tissue papers – perfect for Mother’s Day or Spring/Summer birthdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon. For ages 8 and up. All materials provided. Please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Bird Walk at Woodlawn Preserve Meet at the Woodlawn Preserve trailhead on Gifford Road in Schenectady and walk approximately one and a half miles around the pond searching for spring migrants, 7 a.m. For ages 6 and up. Binoculars will be provided. Free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

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hvcc.edu/kidscamps

2019

KIDSON CAMPUS

S U M M E R

• Minecraft • Painting • Technology Enrichment • Youth Theater and more!

P R O G R A M S

We’re online!

Be sure to visit our website…

p Capital District

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• Athletics • Circus Theatricks • Cooking • Forensics • Legos

arent pages The Resource for Parents

cdparentpages.com 107145_4

MAY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 19

Calendar of events 12 Sunday

family fun for May

cheerintensity.com, call (518) 272-4337 or email rebecca.rice@cheerintensity.com.

Tortoise & Hare at Cohoes Music Hall

Sunday Cinema Film series with titles suitable for adult audiences, 2:30 p.m. See www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org for a list of titles. Shown with Subtitling for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing when possible. Kids and families welcome at this special showing about the return of everyone’s favorite nanny. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Based on the classic fable but with a modern twist, this ultimate culture clash between two tribes and a fantastical race to decide the fate of them all, 2 p.m. Hosted by Park Playhouse, Inc. Cost is $15 per person. Cohoes Music Hall, 58 Remsen St. Cohoes. For more information, visit www.thecohoesmusichall.org.

Mother’s Day Nature Walk at Landis Arboretum Celebrate Mother’s Day with an exploration of Mother Nature on an easy walk at the Arboretum looking for plants and animals awakening to spring, 2-3:30 p.m. Cost is $5 per person, $15 per family. Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance. For more information, call (518) 875-6935 or visit landislive. weebly.com.

Cheer Intensity Open House Learn more about cheer and tumbling programs, new classes designed specifically for toddlers, and new dance classes, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. Cheer Intensity, 14B Commercial Ave. Albany. For more information visit www.

13 Monday PJ Story Time

14 Tuesday

Preschool Storytime Books, rhymes, songs, a short video, and

an art activity, 10 a.m. For ages 2 to 5 with caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

KBA: Kids Builder Association Build your fun with Legos, Snap Circuits, K’nex, blocks, puzzles, origami and more, 4 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

15 Wednesday Family Storytime Engage in stories, music, crafts and play, 10:30 a.m. For ages 0-5. Troy Public Library, 100 2nd St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 274-7071 or visit www.thetroylibrary. org.

The Story Corner Children will create real world connections as they familiarize themselves to new vocabulary words, repeat rhymes to fun fingerplay rhymes, use their imagination to act out a narrative, and use their creativity as they craft a piece of artwork based on the story of the day, 11-11:30 a.m. Free with museum admission. The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 584-5540 or visit cmssny.org.

Continued on the next page

H T E O R M ’ S Y D P A P Y A ! H

arent pages The Resource for Parents

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20 PARENT PAGES — MAY 2019

16 Thursday Library Tots Enjoy lap bounces, choral book reading and action rhymes and songs all focused on developing your baby’s skills, 10 a.m. For newborns to 36 months old. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

17 Friday St. Sophia Greek Festival Also Saturday and Sunday. Music, food vendors, church tours and more, 6-10 p.m. Friday; noon-10 p.m. Saturday; and noon-7 p.m. Sunday. Cost is $3 per day. St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church, 440 Whitehall Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 489-4442 or visit stsophia.net/events/2019-greek-festival.

18 Saturday Cheer Intensity Vendor and Craft Fair Vendors include local crafters and small businesses, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Free. Cheer Intensity, 14B Commercial Ave. Albany. For more information visit www.cheerintensity. com, call (518) 272-4337 or email rebecca. rice@cheerintensity.com.

May Magic During a Magic the Gathering match, players cast devastating spells, summon creatures of legend, and wield powerful artifacts to best their opponents in a battle of wits, 2 p.m. Free decks are available for beginners. All ages, please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

here in New York state and connect with other rare patients, families and supporters, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Guilderland YMCA, 250 Winding Brook Drive, Guilderland. For more information or to register, visit RareNV.org.

The Mopco Improv Theatre Family Show An interactive, family-friendly improv show that uses audience suggestions and willing volunteers to create stories, characters, and songs off the tops of our heads in this one-ofa-kind performance, 3:30-5 p.m. Tickets are $5 for children and $10 for general audience. The Mopco Improv Theatre, 10 North Jay Street, Schenectady. For more information, visit www. mopco.org.

Lupine Fest Fields of violet Lupine flowers and fluttering Karner blue butterflies set the stage for visitors to explore and support the Albany Pine Bush Preserve and its partners, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, hands on activities with community partners, music, games, crafts, food, vendors and more. Free. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

For the Love of Dance… Registering now for the

2019 SUMMER SESSION Offering Mini Sessions and Morning Camps

• Tap • Ballet • Pilates • Jazz • Modern & more 398 Feura Bush Road, Suite 900 • Glenmont (3 doors down from Marshall’s)

108603_4

Calendar of events

www.inspirationalmovementdance.com • 518-598-9932

To advertise on our website, call Denice Mau at 439-4949 Check us out at:

www.cdparentpages.com 107147_4

family fun for May

Forever Home Pet Adoption Day A number of local animal rescues will be at the library, and there will be fun activities throughout the day, including a craft for children, therapy dogs to read to, dog and cat toys to make for donation to local rescues, and more, 11 a.m. This event is supported by the Friends of the Library, who will be on hand to collect donations of pet food and supplies for local animal rescues. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

19 Sunday SenseAble Science

Meet and Greet for Families Affected by Rare Diseases

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 $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.

Join the New York Rare Action Network for an opportunity to learn about their efforts

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MAY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 21

Calendar of events

family fun for May

21 Tuesday

Pick of the Month

Pre-K Storytime

29 Wednesday Family Storytime Engage in stories, music, crafts and play, 10:30 a.m. For ages 0-5. Troy Public Library, 100 2nd St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 274-7071 or visit www.thetroylibrary. org.

Drop-in storytime for ages 2-6, 11 a.m. Siblings welcome. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Sensory Playtime

Don’t Be Bored Games

Self-paced activities will allow little ones to explore sight, touch, and sound, work on motor skill development, and reinforce cooperative play with others, 9:30 a.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Play board games in the Young People’s Room, 5 p.m. For all ages. Troy Public Library, 100 2nd St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 274-7071 or visit www.thetroylibrary.org.

The Prince and Princess in Me

22 Wednesday Preschool Movies Enjoy a series of short, literature-based films, 10:15 a.m. For ages 3-6 with an adult. No registration is required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Family Storytime Engage in stories, music, crafts and play, 10:30 a.m. For ages 0-5. Troy Public Library, 100 2nd St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 274-7071 or visit www.thetroylibrary.org.

May

Village of Waterford Canal Festival

May

18- 19

New and returning vendors line the banks of the Erie Canal in an event that also features boat rides, vendors, dance reviews, free fun for kids (bounce house, pony rides, face painting), kayak rentals, a fishing contest, and more, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Waterford Harbor Visitor Center, 1 Tugboat Alley, Waterford.

tion, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

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

World Language Story Time: Chinese

27 Monday

This international story time will include stories and songs in Spanish and English, plus The Prince and Princess in Me a craft, 9:10 a.m. No previous exposure to Build self esteem, self love, and self respect, other languages needed. For ages 3 and up with an adult; no registration required. Clifton and learn how to care for others, and how to be respectful, 5-7 p.m. Free. For boys and girls Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, age 4-12. Electric City Barn, 400 Craig St., Sche- Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) nectady. Call (518) 491-6162 or email mdam@ 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org. mdamweb.com for more information.

23 Thursday Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-18. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

24 Friday Art Explosion Create your own masterpiece inspired by some of the greatest artists in history, 11 a.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more informa-

22 PARENT PAGES — MAY 2019

25 Saturday Family Yoga

Partner with your children in simple, animated poses that help strengthen coordination and build body awareness, 10 a.m. All ages welcome. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Karner Blue Butterfly Walk Don’t miss this chance to join Albany Pine Bush Preserve staff on a 0.9 mile hike in the Pine Bush Preserve to see the Karner blue butterfly, 11 a.m. For ages 6 and up. Free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany.

Hilltowns Memorial Day Parade A celebration and a memorial event commemorating those who have been lost during military service to our country with Berne-Knox-Westerlo’s marching band, floats, military and classic vehicles, horses, fire and emergency vehicles and marching groups, 10 a.m. 1656 Helderberg Trail, Berne. For more information, call (518) 894-8589.

28 Tuesday Preschool Storytime Books, rhymes, songs, a short video, and an art activity, 10 a.m. For ages 2 to 5 with caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Build self esteem, self love, and self respect, and learn how to care for others, and how to be respectful, 5-7 p.m. Free. For boys and girls age 4-12. Electric City Barn, 400 Craig St., Schenectady. Call (518) 491-6162 or email mdam@ mdamweb.com for more information.

30 Thursday Tad and Diane in the Garden Families with children ages 3-8 are invited to join Library mascot Tad (the frog) and Diane Payette (aka Grama Tippy-Toes) in the Reading Garden for songs and stories, 6:30 p.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Explore Feelings Through Books & Play Learn how to build empathy and emotional literacy through doll play and stories in this program presented by Capital District Child Care Council, 10:30 a.m. Children are welcome! For parents and caregivers of infants and toddlers. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

31 Friday Craft and Sip Create a fuse bead masterpiece while sipping some juice and relaxing, 3:30 p.m. For ages 9-14. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

World Language Story Time: Japanese

This international story time will include stories and songs in Spanish and English, Pre-K Storytime plus a craft, 10 a.m. No previous exposure to other languages needed. For ages 3 and up Drop-in storytime for ages 2-6, 11 a.m. with an adult; no registration required. Clifton Siblings welcome. Rensselaer Public Library, Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org. (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Our students say it all. Love of learning

is what it’s all about for students at Rochester School for the Deaf. Since 1876, our students have been discovering the

art of communication and education in a nurturing, inclusive environment—at no cost to families.

As a private school, our dynamic educational programs employ skilled professionals who

educate students in a vibrant multicultural and bilingual scholastic setting which includes

American Sign Language and English.

H Building futures for deaf and hard of hearing students

H Focusing on infant, early childhood, K-12 grades, up to age 21

H Sign language learning programs and community outreach services

Get in touch today and give your student the love of learning. Lily, 2nd Grade signing “Love”

Rochester School for the Deaf Celebrating our 140th Year! 1545 St. Paul Street | Rochester, NY 14621 585-544-1240 • www.RSDeaf.org • email info@RSDeaf.org 108109_4

MAY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 23

School Break Action Camp Parent Pages Fall 2018.pdf 1 10/15/2018 10:05:37 AM

AFRIM'S sports COLONIE SCHOOL BREAK ACTION CAMPS

10% discount parent19 C

CMY

AGES 3-12 YEARS 9AM-4PM 9AM-12PM 1PM-4PM FULL DAY

HALF DAY

$55* PER DAY $40 PER DAY BOUNCE - PLAY - crEATE - ENJOY *Multi-day & sibling discounts available

COLUMBUS DAY - WWW.AFRIMSPORTS.COM VETERAN’S DAY - WINTER BREAK MLK DAY - FEBRUARY BREAK - SPRING BREAK AND ALL SUMMER LONG!!!!!

for MORE INFORMATION: www.afrimsports.com (518) 438-3131 AFRIMSPORTS@GMAIL.COM 109158_4

24 PARENT PAGES — MAY 2019