Capital District Parent Pages - October 2019 by Spotlight Newspapers

Ready to adopt? Get ready for questions For triplets, what’s fair is not even

October calendar listings

arent pages

Volume 23 • Number 10 • OCTOBER 2019 • Complimentary

Capital District

Inside:

The Resource for Parents

Time for teacher conferences

cdparentpages.com OCTOBER 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 1

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

Call (518) 271-3393 to arrange a tour. Located on the second floor of Samaritan Hospital in the heart of Troy.

burdettbirthcenter.org | 2215 Burdett Avenue, Suite 200, Troy, NY 12180 | (518) 271-3393 | 109685_4

YOU BELONG AT THE Y. Free Babysitting! Enjoy 2 hours of FREE babysitting every day with your family membership.

SAVE $100! Join any branch of the Capital District YMCA and we’ll waive the joiner’s fee! Just bring this ad. CAPITAL DISTRICT YMCA 518.869.3500 • www.CDYMCA.org BETTER TOGETHER — The Capital District YMCA is a leading Capital Region charity. CDPP 10.19

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Halloween has evolved over time

o you remember Halloween when you were a child? I do. It was a time when parents wouldn’t think twice about letting you tear into a homemade popcorn ball of uncertain origin. Parades and parties took up the entire school day. Costumes often showed better imagination than actual execution (my parents thought they could make me a witch’s nose out of Play-Doh; I spent most of the night holding it in place). You had to check the TV listings to watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” instead of searching for it on YouTube to watch whenever you wanted. Kids were admonished to say their thank-yous with every plunk that signaled candy behind dropped in their plastic pumpkins, and the night ended with vigorous candy trading among siblings and pals. If you asked my parents about the Halloweens of their youth, you would get an entirely different recollection. All treats were homemade, and there were far more tricks being played, as many children were allowed to go out without adult supervision. And you had your choice of costume: ghost, hobo, witch, clown or scarecrow. We all know that things have changed — out of necessity and safety concerns, and also because our society has changed. In the Capital District, school parties are still a big deal, and many still allow some kind of costume parade (minus any weapon-like accessories). However, when the kids are out trick-or-treating, we are keeping better tabs on their whereabouts. Most parents are also inspecting their child’s candy haul and dumping any damaged or opened pieces, and a good many put some sort of restriction on how much can be eaten at one time.

p Capital District

Editor’s desk

arent pages The Resource for Parents

October 2019 Features Costumes and candy

10-11

Columnists 24-Hour Shift Triple Threat

5 6-7

Learning Center

Show Money Who’s Boss

What’s new On the Bookshelf Kids fun page

4 12

Resources Calendar 14-18

The truth of the matter is, these changes aren’t all bad, and, they don’t really take away from the real treat that Halloween is for kids. That flicker of creative fun is still there, even if it is coming from a glow stick or LED flashlight instead of a candle. *** Capital District Parent Pages is always accepting potential cover images. 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: Lucian, 17 months, makes a dashing hedgehog in this photo submitted by his mom, Bria, who picks up her copy of Parent Pages every month at the Saratoga Library. Parent Pages is always accepting photos for potential covers. Submissions should be at least 8-by-10-inches with a high resolution. 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

october 2019 — CDParentpages.com 3

On the Bookshelf

Books bring friends together ‘The Dog Who Lost His Bark’

‘Hungry Jim’

By Eoin Colfer;

By Laurel Snyder;

Illustrated by P.J. Lynch

Illustrated by Chuck Groenink

A warm, uplifting story about a boy desperate for his own dog for as long as he can remember, a dog who has seen mistreatment in his short life, and the healing power of music. Candlewick Press

Jim wakes up hungry, just not for the pancakes his mother is fixing--so his imagination takes over, and he pictures himself as a lion checking out the possibilities for breakfast (including his mother). Chronicle Books

‘Bruce’s Big Storm’ By Ryan T. Higgins Bruce’s home is already a full house. But when a big storm brings all his woodland neighbors knocking, he’ll have to open his door to a crowd of animals in need of shelterwhether he likes it or not. Disney Hyperion

Be sure to visit our website…

p Capital District

We’re online!

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arent pages The Resource for Parents

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parenting is a full-time job

Theresa Davis

Adoption journey is a wild ride

o you picked an adoption agency to work with. Yay! You’ve started your adoption journey. Now comes paperwork. Lots and lots of paperwork. I empathize with you if you are a private person, because that’s gone now. Thorough background checks will be done on everyone living in the household. Your finances will be looked at, everything. By the time I was at the end of this process, I was expecting a record of the times I made a bathroom visit. You will get completely stressed and overwhelmed. Ask questions. Don’t be afraid or feel ashamed about what “type” of kid you want. You will be asked. Agencies want to make sure the placement will be a good fit. If you’re not comfortable with a certain religion, personality trait, behavior, etc. it’s OK. You’re not a terrible person. Just be aware that babies turn into teenagers; people change and may do things you don’t agree with. You will need to be flexible and have an open mind. For you folks who choose foster care, not only is there paperwork but also training. At least several hours of training. You will hear terrible things and hear of strange behaviors. At this stage I urge you to stop and be honest with yourself. Can you handle bedwetting? How about a teenager who wets the bed? Can you handle

Thorough background checks will be done on everyone living in the household. Your finances will be looked at — everything. By the time I was at the end of this process, I was expecting a record of the times I made a bathroom visit.

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Get the word out! List your event for parents & children in our monthly calendar Send calendar submissions by the 5th of the previous month to: 107146_4

The 24-hour shift

Capital District Parent Pages, Attn: Calendar, P.O. Box 100, Delmar, N.Y. 12054 or Email: robertsk@spotlightnews.com

Toddler • Early Childhood • Elementary • Middle School food being thrown, gobbled, refused? What about hoarded food? You may find it everywhere, or you may not know it’s there until you smell it.

Join us

for an Admissions

Can you handle a toddler or a preschooler who is almost completely self-sufficient and acts like an adult? There’s more, friends, lots more. But you can do it; anyone can. The real question is do you want to? When your paperwork is completed, filed, and approved, you’re almost there. While this goes on, you will have a home study. Think you’re stressed now? See you in a month or two… 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.

OpeN HOuSe SaturdayS 12:30-3 pm November 16 January 11 Snow date Jan.25

apply now foR fall 2020

100 Montessori Place • north Greenbush 518.283.5400 woodlandhill.org 110435_4

OCTOBER 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 5

Triple Threat

parenting triplets in the Capital District

Not always fair and square Three kids, three different needs

here are three sandwiches on a table for lunch. The plates are dark blue with small yellow flowers around the edge. On the plates are potato chips, slices of two kinds of apples and a little bit of coleslaw. The two slices of whole wheat bread are cut diagonally and in between these pieces of bread is strawberry jam and smooth peanut butter. The three Steuer kids sit down to lunch. Each of them gets a plate.

everything, so that was even. PB and J is a popular combination. However, there is a big problem. Benjamin doesn’t like apples. Rebecca doesn’t like coleslaw. Olivia will die if she eats peanut butter and isn’t treated immediately. A lunch of peanut butter and jelly with apples and chips sounds great and easy for me to make – so easy a child could do it! However, even and fair aren’t the same for everyone. If each person receives the same as the others, then everything is even. Fair is when everyone gets what they need.

Jennifer Steuer

Each child got lunch, so that was fair. Each child got the same amount of

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As they get older, the Steuer triplets are each developing their own individuality, which means it’s not one size fits all for them. 6 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2019

Even and fair aren’t the same for everyone. If each person receives the same as the others, then everything is even. Fair is when everyone gets what they need. n Triple Threat continued from Page 6 Rick Riordan, author of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, said, “Fairness does not mean everyone gets the same. Fairness means everyone gets what they need.” Trying to figure this out as the kids have gotten older has been so hard. There have been some arguments between the kids and times they turn and declare ‘IT’S NOT FAIR!’ no matter how much something is explained. If Rebecca has a dentist appointment to have some of her extra teeth pulled and she misses breakfast before school and we grab some munchkins and frozen hot chocolate while she gets the feeling back in her face, Benjamin and Olivia feel like they have been shortchanged. That morning, in that moment Rebecca was getting what she needed. I have done similar things with Ben and Rebecca – and that was fair. As they get older and start to see their individuality, maybe they will see the differences between fair and even. When Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca were born, they came as a set of three, and most people see the three of them as “The Triplets.” Now, they are becoming different people with vastly different interests and needs. I can look at what is going on in our lives and know that we might need a night of just hanging out at home and not really doing much. I can say to Olivia to come snuggle with me and watch some reality television, which we both know is not reality. Benjamin is a snuggle kid, but on his terms. Rebecca will read with me. All of the kids need underwear. Fairness means that each of the children will

get the size and kind that is needed. All of the kids need shoes. Fairness means that the child who needs sneakers with more of an arch will get that kind of shoe. Children need to eat, and each child will get the food they need. Each child gets what they need. This is fair. Meeting the needs of each child 100 percent of the time is impossible. I’ve tried, and when I really push to meet that goal for each child, I end up so frazzled. There are the needs of the three children, but there are also the needs of the parent. In fairness, my needs have to be met as well because otherwise I cannot function effectively. I give as much as I can to my family, and I know that they do the same. Being Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca’s mom is hard. It always has been, not in a negative way, but sometimes coordinating appointments and being able to get groceries, bills paid and the work at home done can be stressful. As long as every time they sit down to a table set with three plates with little yellow flowers, and it is food they can eat, will eat and enjoy eating, I know they are getting what is fair. Treating everyone fairly may not always look the same to an outside observer, but we know that no matter how things shake out, by the end of the day, everyone gets what they need. I love my children and I want them to get a fair shake in life, I think knowing the difference between what is fair and what is even is important. 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.

OCTOBER 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 7

Learning Center

Education insight for parents

Make the most of conferences

Drama Kids offers exciting programs for ages 4 to 18. Kids have tons of fun and develop important confidence-building skills that help them personally and academically. Activities include improvisations, mini-scripts, speaking skills, character analysis, theater games, creative movement, and performances. Give your child a jump on achievement. Enroll today! www.dramakids.com (518) 458-1313

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Stand for Integrity. 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.

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arent ppages

A reminder from: Capital District

Friendship. Kindness. Respect. Compassion.

The Resource for Parents

www.cdparentpages.com

arent teacher conferences are generally very short, and it can be challenging to get a complete picture of how your child is progressing. It’s best to be prepared before you go. This way you can make the most of your one on one time with your child’s teacher.

Patrick McNamara

6. Do you think this reflects a lack of effort on my child’s part, or a lack of understanding of the material? 7. What can I do as a parent to provide more support? To get a clear picture of your child’s social interactions you can ask:

Start with this list of ques8. How is my child interacttions to ask at your conference. ing with their peers? Don’t be afraid to take a written, or typed, list with you so you 9. Do you see any problems I don’t forget what you want to should be aware of? ask. Be sure to inform your child’s 1. What do you think are the teacher about anything going most important skills to have in on at home. This may help order to succeed in this class? the teacher guide them and understand any issues, or suc2. Are some types of assigncesses, in class. You and your ments weighted more heavily child’s teacher are a team and than others? will guide your child’s success this year. Keep the lines of com3. What strengths and weakmunication open throughout nesses do you see in my child? the year. 4. Is my child raising their Patrick McNamara is the hand and participating in class? Executive Director of Sylvan 5. Is my child asking for help Learning of Albany and Clifton when they need it? Park, which provides tutoring services and academic coaching A few key questions if you’re (www.SylvanLearning.com). concerned about low grades:

You and your child’s teacher are a team so be sure to keep the lines of communication open throughout the year.

Show Money Who’s Boss

Gerard Bialek photo

Making family finances work for you

Managing money and emotions A person’s value is about more than what’s in the bank account

ell, I did it. I got one of those zero percent APR (annual percentage rate) credit cards, transferred money from a high interest rate card onto it, and then actually paid it off before the rate offer expired. I couldn’t possibly tell you how many times I’ve attempted this in the past, only to wind up with a new maxed out credit card — and extra-high “punishment” APR — as a result. So, yeah, I’m feeling pretty proud of this accomplishment.

about all those other times when this method of climbing out of debt didn’t work for me? At the very least, shouldn’t I feel badly about my previous poor judgement, which led me to believe I could do it when I couldn’t?

further into that debt. I wish I could have recognized that I wasn’t “bad with money” or a “bad person;” I was making certain choices along the way about the by work I was willing to do and the lifestyle I was unwilling to give up. (I’m not Sorry, but I talking about don’t. It’s taken a champagne on while to get here, yachts or anything but I’m not ashamed — I mainly wanted to be anymore of those past financial failures. I’m working on home with my kids.)

But proud doesn’t seem to be the right emotion here, where money is the issue. Because if I’m proud now, doesn’t that mean I ought to feel ashamed

not even feeling badly about all the debt I accumulated over the years. I only wish I could have felt this empowered when I was actually sinking further and

Heather E. Schwartz

But of course, nobody feels empowered when they’re sinking into debt — and maybe empowered is another emotion that should be separated from

any association with money. Obviously, money makes life easier when you have enough of it. That’s empowering. But not having money should never correlate directly to taking power away from people. Everybody has a net worth, but human value can’t be measured using this random monetary system we’ve created. The emotion I’m landing on that feels right for money these days is gratitude. When I started working on my debt last fall, I Googled different combinations of words to search for help. I had a general sense that my lack of control in this area wasn’t entirely about a lack of actual funds, so I put in things like “your brain and money” and “attitude about money”

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

40 years

Beginning in October at

The Music sTudio Classes for Young Children (ages 2-4) Classes for Children with Special Needs (ages 4-8)

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TheMusicStudio.com

facebook.com/ TheMusicStudioAlbany/

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Call 518-459-7799

1237 Central Avenue • Albany, NY • 518-459-7799

OCTOBER 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 9 190906MusicStudio-ParentPgs.indd 1

9/6/19 11:45 AM

Go GREEN this H

Scare up a recycled costume to save money an

othing says Halloween like the perfect costume. Children may spend months thinking about what they will wear and how they can bring their favorite characters from movies, comics and books to life.

Billions of dollars are spent each year on Halloween costumes, according to the National Retail Federation, but many of these costumes are worn just once and are made with petroleum-based polyester and a mix of other materials. Environmentalists may lament that Halloween costumes can be wasteful and potentially harmful to the environment. Recycling and reusing these garments can quell such concerns.

Use recycled materials Pinterest is awash with ideas for turning different materials into homemade Halloween costumes. With a little creativity, boxes, paper bags, plastic water bottles and more can be upcycled into costumes at little or no cost. Afterwards, costumes can be broken down and individual parts can be recycled.

Clever costumes can be made from items already on hand.

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

Parents also can look for items around the house that potentially can be used to make costumes. An apron and a whisk is the perfect representation of a pastry chef. Wearing a pair of overalls and holding a hammer can signify a construction worker.

Swap and share costumes Another way to get more mileage out of costumes is to swap them with other people. This way another family can benefit, and the costume will not end up in the garbage after a single use. Consider turning the idea into a fundraiser for a school or sports organization. People can donate their costumes to the cause, and then others can shop the selection and pay a $5 donation for a costume. The school or organization keeps the proceeds, and kids get gently used costumes.

Clever ways to recycle Petroleum-based Halloween costumes that go into landfills will sit there a long time. Choosing costumes made from natural materials

Halloween

nd reduce waste can help prevent this problem.

Clothing and textiles are notoriously hard to recycle, but some items on costumes may be recycled into new things. Theater groups perhaps can use pieces of old costumes to create wardrobes for their productions. Or children can use items for pretend play. Crafters with a creative eye may take apart pieces of costumes and turn them into artwork or home decor.

Sell older costumes Try selling a costume through an online site like Craigslist. Many people are happy to get a discount on costumes that are in good shape. Otherwise, work with a thrift shop or consignment store. Costumes may bring in foot traffic for these retailers, and they’ll be happy to take costumes in good condition prior to the Halloween season. Accessories like tiaras, swords, hats, and cloaks also can be sold or swapped.

Six tricks for storing treats Many households take in more candy than they know what to do with on Halloween. Rather than relegate candy to the trash can, proper storage and some other tips can preserve treats long after Halloween has come and gone.

1. 2.

Go nutty first. Nuts and oils will not last as long as some other candy ingredients. Consume candy that is full of nuts first. You can try freezing candy containing nuts, but the texture may change upon thawing. Keep an eye on chocolate. Chocolate needs to be kept under cool conditions to prolong its shelf life. Dark chocolate can be kept for one to two years if wrapped in foil and stored in a cool, dark and dry place, such as a pantry. Milk and white chocolate have a storage time of no more than eight to 10 months. Putting chocolate in the refrigerator can affect texture.

3. 4. 5.

Candy corn can endure. If left in the original, unopened packaging, candy corn can last a few years. The manufacturer of Smarties says that its candy can last up to three years if unopened. The cooler and drier the conditions for storing the candies, the better. Keep original packaging. The wrappers used to house the candy were designed to keep it fresh. When original packaging is unavailable, glass or plastic containers with airtight lids can keep Halloween candy fresher, longer. Manage moisture. Candies like mints, caramels and hard candies can absorb moisture. They should not be mixed with other candies that can lose moisture, such as fudge and creamy confections. Hard candies can stay hard if sprinkled with finely ground sugar and stored in airtight containers.

Use candy in other ways. Repurpose candy in different recipes. Chocolate can replace chips or morsels in cookies. Use hard candies to garnish cakes. Melt down caramels to use for ice cream toppings or chop up nutty candies to make your own sundae toppings. OCTOBER 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 11

12 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2019 Answers: 1. Larger pumpkin missing tooth 2. An extra small pumpkin 3. Medium pumpkin is carved 4. Smoky mist from lantern

B A

What’s the Difference?

Coloring Fun TRICK OR TREAT

n u F s d i K e g a P

BEFORE HALLOWEEN: Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame. Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility. Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet. Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, cut larger eye holes in masks or consider non-toxic and hypo allergenic makeup as a safe alternative. When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant. Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury. Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts. Teach children their home phone or parents cellphone number and to how call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone. Review with your children the principle of “Stop-Drop-Roll”, should their clothes catch on fire. Consider purchasing individually packaged healthy food alternatives (or safe non-food treats) for those who visit your home. Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.

FUN ALTERNATIVES: Find a special event or start one in your own neighborhood. Community Centers, Shopping Malls and Houses of Worship may have organized festivities. Share the fun by arranging a visit to a Retirement Home or Senior Center.

Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community. Adult partygoers should establish and reward a designated driver.

WHILE YOU’RE OUT TRICK-OR-TREATING:

BEFORE NIGHTFALL ON HALLOWEEN: A good meal prior to parties and trick-ortreating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats. Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors. While children can help with the fun of designing a Jack O’ Lantern, leave the carving to adults. Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes. Always keep Jack O’ Lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking. Do not permit children to bicycle, rollerblade or skateboard. Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home. Along with flashlights for all, older children and escorts should wear a wristwatch or carry a fully-charged cellphone. Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare household pets for an evening of frightful sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and cats are wearing collars and proper identification tags. Consult your veterinarian for further advice.

A Parent or responsible Adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds. Remind Trick-or-Treaters to use a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others. Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where you are going. Only trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on. Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic. Never cut across yards or use alleys. Never enter a stranger’s home or car for a treat. Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations. Always walk. Never run across a street. Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom). Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or alley. Don’t assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn’t mean others will. Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered. No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an Adult at home. Law Enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

AFTER TRICK-OR-TREATING: Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible Adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items. Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween. Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard

candies), are given only to those of an appropriate age.

Enjoy a SAFE and HAPPY HALLOWEEN from all of us at Capital District Parent Pages! OCTOBER 2019 2013 — — CDParentpages.com CDPARENTPAGES.COM 13 35 october

Capital District

arent pages

Calendar of events

October 3 Thursday

Fall Festival

Enjoy free food, a bounce house, games and great fun for the whole family and learn about American Heritage Enjoy the Museum by listening to a story, Girls for girls ages 5-18, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. exploring objects from the teaching collecCarman Road Community Church, 3313 tion and creating a fun art project, 11 a.m. Carman Road, Schenectady. For more inforFor toddlers and preschoolers. Free. New York mation, visit carmanroad.com or call (518) State Museum, Albany. For more information 356-1671. call (518) 474-0079 or visit www.nysm. Brilliant and Bristly nysed.gov.

Upcoming Monthly Themes & Deadlines

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

November

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

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

December The Holidays Theatre Deadline: November 4th

Open Playtime Playtime for babies and toddlers and their caregivers with age-appropriate toys will be set up, 10:30 a.m. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www. voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

January

Winter Sports & Activities Staying Healthy Deadline: December 2rd

4 Friday Stay & Play at The Crossings The Colonie Library will host program geared for young children up to age 5 years old with an accompanying adult, and includes time for free play and a brief storytime, 10 a.m. Free. The Crossings of Colonie Park, 580 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville. For more information, visit www.colonielibrary.org or call (518) 810-0315.

February Children’s Art & Culture Deadline: January 6th

Number Play

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call

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5 Saturday

Story Art

The Resource for Parents

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

family fun for October

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Read books about counting and use pumpkin seeds to represent the numbers 1-10, 10 a.m. For children up to age 6 with family. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Buckmoths

Join us for a 0.9-mile hike to discover the amazing world of the buckmoth, a large beautiful moth with bold black and white wings that flies for only a brief window of time during daylight in the early fall, 11 a.m. For ages 6 and up. 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.

7 Monday Baby Yoga and Developmental Movement Learn baby yoga exercises designed to strengthen growing muscles, aid in digestion, promote better sleeping, and support development. For babies ages 1-12 months old, with a caregiver, 10:30 a.m. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Family STEAM Night Science departments will be here with fun hands-on science activities for kids. Grades 3-6 and families, 6:30 p.m. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

8 Tuesday Preschool Storytime A one-hour, theme based, multi-age level storytimes with an emphasis on early literacy with books, rhymes, songs, a short video, and an art activity, 10 a.m. Ages 2 to 5 with a caregiver. No registration required. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Continued on the next page

family fun for October

10 Thursday

Family Build Challenge

Jurassic World

Submit an event

Also Friday through Sunday. Experience some of Jurassic World’s most iconic dinosaurs including Blue the Raptor, Triceratops, Pteranodons and the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex, 7 p.m. Cost is $20-$120. Times Union Center, 51 S. Pearl St., Albany. For more information, visit www.timesunioncenteralbany.com or call (518) 487-2000.

• 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.

GPL Adventures: Radical Robots Control an automaton through sound, make a soccer robot score a goal, and build your own Robot Hand. Grades 3-5, 3:30 p.m. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Library Tots Early literacy program emphasizing

3:30 p.m. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

12 Saturday Running SCCCared Family Run/Walk

11 Friday

Compete or enjoy a nice walk with 5K race, 10K race, or the Kid’s Race, with games, refreshments and prizes, 8:30 a.m. Runners are also encouraged to dress in their best Halloween costumes. Cost is $13$40. The Crossings of Colonie, 580 Albany Shaker Road, South Pavilion, Loudonville. For more information, call (518) 453-6756.

Fire Prevention Storytime Join us at the Elsmere Fire Station (15 W. Poplar Drive, Delmar) for stories, songs, a craft and an up close look at the fire trucks, 10:30 a.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Project Picture Book Join us for a fun read-aloud and related art project. Grades PreK-2 with an adult caregiver,

MERRITT

13 Sunday Full Moon Owl Prowl Learn about the owls of the Arboretum with a short indoor session with George Steele and then it’s off to the woods to call and listen for owls, 9-10:30 p.m. Cost is $5/person, $15/family; $15/person, $25/ family for nonmembers. Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance. For more information, call (518) 875-6935.

Continued on the next page

E N T ER E CRecreation C N & DA Recreation & Competitive Dance

Competitive Dance

• Pre-school Levels • Pre-schoolthrough through Advanced Advanced Levels

★ TAPH ★ ACRO/GYM TAPJAZZ H JAZZ★HBALLET BALLET H★ ACRO/GYM ★ BATON TWIRLING HOP H BATON TWIRLING H HIP HOP★H HIP KINDERDANCE ★ KINDERDANCE

LOW COMBINATION RATES LOW COMBINATION RATES

Still Time to Register! SUMMER Beginner thru Advanced Classes DANCE CAMP

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See how tall a tower you can create using paper plates, plastic cups, and craft sticks, 2 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempublic library.org.

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

Certified by Dance Masters of America6 & Dance Educators of America August - 9 1360 Albany Street (2 miles below Mohawk Commons) Certified by Dance Masters of America &

518-372-5282 • www.merrittdancecenter.com Dance Educators of America 1360 Albany Street

372-5282 Want to draw more www.merrittdancecenter.com business online? (2 miles below Mohawk Commons)

To advertise on our website, call Denice Mau at 518-439-4949 Check us out at:

www.cdparentpages.com

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9 Wednesday

Calendar of events

OCTOBER 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 15

Calendar of events

family fun for October

14 Monday

Pick of the month

Bright Star Touring Theatre: Little Red and Big Bully Wolf

Watch a Halloween short, then decorate a small fabric bag. For children up to ages 3-5 with family. Sign up each child individually, 10 a.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

19 Saturday Halal Food & Family Festival

15 Tuesday Preschool Storytime

17 Thursday Pajama-Rama

Smokey Bear Day

Oct.

Meet Smokey Bear and friends and learn how the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission uses prescribed fire to keep the habitat healthy, explore interactive exhibits and receive goody bags take home, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Free. Online signup encouraged. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org/events.

Library Tots

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

Early literacy program emphasizing sharing books, flannel board stories, music, rhymes, and playtime together, 10 a.m. For newborns to 30 months with a caregiver. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information,

n Show Money

you that way, but you feel like you have to at least try whatever method is being pitched anyway.

continued from Page 9 and “money mindset.” That’s how I found Denise DuffieldThomas, a money mindset mentor, whose theory seems to be that money is only about mindset. I guess I can sort of halfway agree with that. Duffield-Thomas has a great story about manifesting a paid travel gig which allowed her to visit and write about honeymoon destinations with her husband for six months. It’s one of those unbelievable tales that inspires you while simultaneously feeding a simmering rage. Because you know it’s not going to happen for

16 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2019

18 Friday Keepsake Trick-or-Treat Bag

An Ann Seegal Memorial Storytelling program! Follow Little Red and friends as they learn to face their fears and stand up to the Big Bully Wolf, 10 a.m. OR 2:30 p.m. Seating is limited. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempublic library.org.

A one-hour, theme based, multi-age level storytimes with an emphasis on early literacy with books, rhymes, songs, a short video, and an art activity, 10 a.m. Ages 2 to 5 with a caregiver. No registration required. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

So I did a couple of things she suggested, and here’s one I liked: I started keeping track of all the money that came into my life each day. Not in the budgeting sense, where you get hold of some money and immediately dole it out to bills. This exercise was about gratitude. I kept a running list each day of any money that came my way and appreciated it for a moment. I got a paycheck and wrote down the amount. OK… Things got more interesting when I realized I should list the five dollars I found in my

visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Open Playtime Playtime for babies and toddlers and their caregivers with age-appropriate toys will be set up, 10:30 a.m. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville.

(apparently unwashed since the previous year) winter jacket. I marked down the money I gained when I remembered to return an unwanted can of soup. When I found a quarter in the road. When my National Grid bill inexplicably went down. This did not result in a sixmonth paid travel writing gig. But the tracking effort did make a difference. All of this money coming my way had always felt invisible, flowing in — sure — but also directly out again. I’d certainly never appreciated its appearance in my life, dismissing it as too small to count and also nothing I could count on. Except for the paycheck, every one of those items

Tons of activities and free food samples from Halal food vendors around the country, noon-9 p.m. Tickets cost $5-$7. Afrim’s Sports, 636 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, visit www.halalfamfest.com.

National Chemistry Day Children and families will have the chance to take part in interactive chemistry demonstrations, fun hands-on activities, and experiments, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. There will also be door prizes, as well as a student-illustrated, chemistry-themed poetry contest. Create an illustrated poem at the event or bring yours to the Museum by noon. Categories for prizes are K–2; 3–4; 5–8; and 9–12 grades. Free. New York State Museum, Albany. For more information call (518) 474-0079 or visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

Continued on the next page

felt like a surprise that might never appear in my life again. Apparently, according to Duffield-Thomas and others, a grateful attitude about money is supposed to signal the universe that you’re ready for more. That’s manifesting, I guess, and I wouldn’t turn it down if it works. I’m not going to get all worked up about the truth in that story, though. My efforts have already resulted in a sense of gratitude about money, and right now that feels like enough. 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.

Calendar of events

19 Saturday (cont.)

Kids Explore the Erie Canal Imagine what life was like for children on the Erie Canal and use a 1903 Erie Canal map and a variety of objects to take a trip through history, 1-3 p.m. Free. New York State Museum, Albany. For more information call (518) 474-0079 or visit www. nysm.nysed.gov.

Family Storytime in Arabic and English Stories, songs, and rhymes presented in both Arabic and English. For kids up to age 6, with a caregiver, 10:30 a.m. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

20 Sunday Fox Trot

A short, inside presentation on the two species of fox that live in the Pine Bush followed by a hike to look for signs of foxes, 1 p.m. For ages 6 and up. 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.

21 Monday GPL Sprouts: Skulls, Fangs & Fur STEM-related programming for the younger set. Grades PreK-2, 3:30 p.m. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

22 Tuesday

Preschool Storytime A one-hour, theme based, multi-age level storytimes with an emphasis on early literacy, 10 a.m. Ages 2 to 5 with a caregiver. No registration required. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

23 Wednesday

Trunk or Treat at Elm Avenue Park Enjoy some trick or treat fun, starting off with a costume parade at the park, 4 p.m. For kids and families. Takes place at Elm Avenue Park in Bethlehem. Co-sponsored by Bethlehem Public Library. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or

CHOOSE CAR SEAT: BY AGE & SIZE

THE ONES

visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

WHO ACTUALLY DO.

25 Friday

Art for 1s & 2s Join us for a sensory art project geared for babies and toddlers 13 to 35 months with an adult caregiver, 11 a.m. Dress for a mess. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

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

THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE

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

WHO THINK

26 Saturday

THEY HAVE THEIR CHILD IN THE RIGHT SEAT.

Tunes and Treats: Children’s Halloween Concert Enjoy a Halloween concert featuring children’s songs, fun classical music, and sing-alongs, followed by a costume parade. For babies, toddlers, families and caregivers, 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Tickets cost $15. Hearst Center, 996 Madison Ave., Albany. To purchase tickets and for more information: www.concertsfortots.com.

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

KNOW FOR SURE

Halloween Spooktacular Family Storytime

IF YOUR CHILD IS IN THE RIGHT CAR SEAT.

Give us a call today.

VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/THERIGHTSEAT

The whole family is welcome at a not-so-scary Halloween storytime featuring frightfully good tales and songs, as well as a parade, 10:30 a.m. Costumes optional. For ages 2-7 with caregiver. Registration AGX-2A001D required. Voorheesville Public Library, AD COUNCIL “NHTSA Pencil” Non-Bleed: 3.5” x 10” 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more 4/C Magazine Thin Vertical Screen: 133 information, visitLinePubs: www.voorheesvillelibrary. Various Date: 2012 org or call (518)Insertion 765-2791.

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family fun for October

518.377.2015

920 Albany St. • Schenectady

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

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

Date

This Advertisement Created by

Day of the Dead Celebration

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

Celebrate this Mexican holiday that honors family ancestors with lively music, skull crafts, bright decorations and special foods, 2-3:30 p.m. For grades 4-8. Registration required. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary. org or call (518) 765-2791. Notes: None

27 Sunday

Halloween Spooktacular Create creepy art projects, play ghoulish games, see spooky science experiments, go wild on the dance floor, and so much more, noon-3 p.m. Costumes are encouraged — there will be a children’s costume parade at 3 p.m. to end the festivities. This program does not provide any candy or snacks. Suggested donation: $3/child or $5/ family (cash only). New York State Museum, Albany. For more information call (518) 474-0079 or visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

Continued on the next page

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OCTOBER 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 17

Calendar of events 27 Sunday (cont.) Halloween Cookie Decorating Decorate a pumpkin-shaped sugar cookie, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Cookie and all the decorating supplies needed to customize it provided. Cost is $5 per child. Call (518) 438-3540 to reserve a spot. Bountiful Bread, 1475 Western Ave., Albany.

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 $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.

28 Monday Make Your Own Haunted House Color your own 3D haunted house

family fun for October

and write a spooky story about it, 4 p.m. For ages 7 and up. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

29 Tuesday

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

30 Wednesday Halloween Party

Sensory Night Hike It’s the time of year associated with dark and spooky things so on this multi-sensory tour of the Pine Bush after sundown, explore nocturnal adaptations through hands-on activities, 6:30 p.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.

Halloween Craft Graveyard Choose from a variety of seasonal craft supplies and make one of our projects or invent your own. A great hangout for families or groups of friends, with snacks and Halloween music to enhance the seasonal mood. For all ages, 6:30 p.m. Registration

Come dressed in your best costume and be ready to celebrate Halloween with creepy snacks and terrifying activities! Grades 5-12, 6:30 p.m. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

31 Thursday Mall-O-Ween Families, children and costumes of all kind are invited to visit each cauldron for a trick or for a treat. Grab an eerie scavenger map from Fidelis, play some hair-raising games with Disney, and sign up with the ValleyCats for the mysterious costume contest, all located on the lower level by Apple, 3-6 p.m. Crossgates Mall,

1 Crossgates Mall Road, Albany. For more information, visit www.shopcrossgates. com or call (518) 869-3522.

Not-So-Spooky Costume Party and Storytime You’re invited to a special costume party and storytime full of songs, stories, and dancing ending with a costume parade around the library. Ages 19 months and older with a caregiver, 10:30 a.m. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Library Trick or Treat It’s time again for our annual trickor-treat parade. Stop by the Children’s Place any time from 10:15-10:45 a.m. OR 2:15-2:45 p.m. on and trick or treat in a safe, dry place. Costumes are optional, but fun is not! Treat bags will be provided. For ages 0-6 and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempublic library.org.

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18 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2019

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

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

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

Individual/Group Reservations Welcome

BIZZY BEEZ - A SENSORY ADVENTURE Wolf Road Shoppers Park 145 Wolf Road Albany, New York 12205 (518) 438-4800 www.BizzyBeezSensoryAdventures.org 110438_4

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OCTOBER 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 19

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20 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2019