Capital District Parent Pages - February 2020

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Inside:

February calendar listings

arent pages

Capital District

Volume 24 • Number 2 • FEBRUARY 2020 • Complimentary

The Resource for Parents

Milestones times three Kids and anxiety Be patient with parents

cdparentpages.com FEBRUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 1

NEW SPECIALTY CAMPS! REGISTRATION OPENS FEBRUARY 3

TOUR AVAIL S ABLE !

9 Convenient Locations!

Register Online! www.CDYMCA.org/CAMP CAPITAL DISTRICT YMCA 518.869.3500 • CDYMCA.org

CDPP.2.20

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BETTER TOGETHER — The Capital District YMCA is a leading Capital Region charity devoted to strengthening our community.

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 | 111339_4

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Despite the hype this month is sweet Looking for something to do this winter break?

Look no further than our events calendar

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am well aware that Valentine’s Day is one of those “Hallmark” holidays designed to sell cards, chocolates and tchotchkes. And yet, I still love it.

It’s hard to not be cheered up by all the colorful cupids hanging about, and the reds and pinks provide a happy contrast to the dull gray outside, especially when the groundhog says there’s more to come.

I guess we I appreciate what those clever greeting card marketers figured they’d cash in on when they started hyping Valentine’s Day: It is a fun distraction from mid-winter’s monotony.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t need to be celebrated with grand gestures. In fact, the pressure to produce extravagant results can suck the fun right out of a day that’s supposed to be about love. Think of how much more mileage you’ll get out of a simple, sweet note tucked in your child’s school folder or a Hershey’s kiss in the lunchbox.

No gift – no matter the cost – will say to your kids, “I love you,” more than all those times you’ve already spent cuddling them, reading to them and kissing their boo-boos.

Not only is February the month of valentines, it is also the time schoolkids get a much-needed winter break. But if you’re not one of the lucky ones flying south, what is there to do? Look no further than our calendar listing on Pages 13-18 to keep the I’m bored’s at bay.

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

Kristen Roberts Editor, Capital District Parent Pages

On the cover: Ryland Miller, 4, of Malta shares a sweet smile in this photo submitted by his mom Cory and taken by professional photographer Michelle Tombari (www.

MichelleTombariPhotography.com). 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.

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Editor’s desk

arent pages The Resource for Parents

February 2020 Features Family dinners made easy Smart gaming strategies

6-7 10-11

Columnists 24-Hour Shift

4

Triple Threat

8

The Learning Center

9

What’s new On the Bookshelf Kids Fun Page

5 12

Resources Calendar 13-18

publisher - John McIntyre editor - Kristen Roberts advertising sales - Denice Mau art director - David Abbott graphic design - Martha Eriksen Engagement Coordinator - Kaitlin Lembo 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

FEBRUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 3

The 24-hour shift

parenting is a full-time job

Fits happen. Don’t judge What may look like inaction on a parent’s part, may be a response to the behavior issues of an adopted or foster child

When an adopted or foster child acts up in public, the judgement from onlookers can be swift.

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h, boy. A kid is in question might be adopted, screaming in a store, particularly one adopted out of or a movie theater foster care, but not necessarily. or a park right I won’t bore you with now, at this very mowhy the kid is cryment. My question ing – it could be for you: Are you by anything. You cringing or are just want her to you sympathetic? stop already, and Cringers, this the parents aren’t one’s for you! doing anything to Judge all you make her stop. want; we’ll even have Actually, yes, they a grand jury. I’ll bring are.

They might be ignorthe popcorn! I know you’re ing the behavior, but the child bored with seemingly inadmight be trying to draw negative equate excuses for the child’s and attention to themselves or their parent’s behaviors. But I’ll put parents.

Some adopted children another one out there: The child want to make their parents’ lives

Theresa Davis

miserable, so they make a scene.

You might notice that the parents are not making eye contact or talking to the child at all. This is not inaction on the parents’ part, they’re just not giving the attention the child is demanding in a negative way.

The child might be responding to a parent’s “no,” and the parents are NOT going to give in to their child for your peace of mind. That would be teaching them that the behavior they’re displaying gets them what they want.

Continued on Page 18

Open House March 28 1-3 pm

Ages 3-12

Woodland Hill welcomes you to play, cook, create, and invent! Explore nature, tackle design challenges, play with clay, tap into your inner musician, become a reporter, launch rockets and more!

Space is limited.

Register today!

Turning your back on Bullying Isn’t.

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

Friendship.

Kindness.

Respect.

Compassion.

June 22 - August 21 Woodland Hill Montessori School 100 Montessori Place • North Greenbush 518.283.5400 woodlandhill.org 111359_4

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Fitting in is Hard. arent ppages

A reminder from: Capital District

2020

The Resource for Parents

www.parentpages.com

On the Bookshelf

Books to love today and always ‘I Love You with All My Heart’

‘The Cool Bean’

By Jane Chapman

By Jory John;

Worrying that her mom will no longer love her when she accidentally breaks a favorite sunflower plant, Little Bear is reassured by her mom’s advice to place her paw on her heart to feel their unconditional love for each other. Tiger Tales

illustrations by Pete Oswald A less-than-cool bean struggling to fit in with the swaggering, sunglass-wearing cool beans at school discovers what being cool is really about. Harper

‘Kitty’s Cuddles’

By Jane Cabrera Kitty discovers numerous ways to show affection when she encounters a variety of animals and receives a fluffy cuddle from Bear, a strong cuddle from Elephant, a prickly cuddle from Porcupine and a best-ever hug from her big brother. Penguin Children’s

How CACFP Keeps Kids Healthy

Covers Major Food Groups

Limits Sugars and Starches Exposes Children to New Foods

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

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www.dramakids.com www.dramakids.com (518) 458-1313 (518) 458-1313

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Summer Camps Enrolling Now!

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Dinner’s ready!

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Mom and cookbook author Katie Workman urges families to keep mealtime simple on weeknights

he challenge working parents face in maintaining work-life balance is often compared to a juggling act. Finding time together, especially on weeknights when family schedules tend to be hectic, is no small task. But finding time together, particularly at the dinner table, can pay a host of dividends. Studies have linked regular family dinners with higher grade-point averages and self-esteem in children, as well as lower rates of obesity and eating disorders in both children and adolescents.

Cook, writer, activist and mother of two Katie Workman knows full well how difficult it can be to make nightly dinners together part of a family’s routine. But Workman, whose book “Dinner Solved!”

(Workman Publishing) provides 100 family-

friendly recipes and variations to ensure that everyone at the table is happy, relishes the opportunity to help others make family dinners a fun part of their nightly routines.

“Many of us put so much pressure on ourselves when it comes to family meals,” says Workman. “But when we ease up on that pressure, dinner actually seems to happen more often, and the meals are a lot more fun.”

To help even the busiest moms and dads find time for family dinners, Workman offers the following tips so parents can produce weeknight meals the whole family can enjoy.

1.

Less is more. Don’t make yourself crazy trying to master a recipe with an endless ingredient list on a Wednesday night. Weeknight meals don’t have to be perfect or exotic. Even the simplest recipes can make for delicious meals.

2.

3.

Change it up.Skip those time-consuming, last-minute trips to the grocery store for missing ingredients by replacing them with something similar that you already have on hand.

Get a head start on prep work. Whenever possible, reduce the stress of weeknight meals by doing some of your meal prep long before dinnertime. Chop veggies for the week on Sunday nights or take a few minutes each morning to gather ingredients for that night’s meal.

4.

Make it a family affair. Make weeknight meals more fun by involving the whole family. Parents can let the kids peel carrots or measure rice or perform other age-appropriate activities.

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Maple-Ba 3/4 cup pa nko bread c rumbs 1/2 cup ba rbecue sauc e, plus more dipping if y ou like for 1/2 cup gra ted peeled apple 1/3 cup m inced onion 1 large eg g, lightly be aten Kosher or c oarse salt, to taste 1 tablespo on maple s yrup 1-1/2 pounds gro

und pork

rbecue Po rk Meatb alls Serves 6 Preheat oil a rimme the oven to 375 degre es. db crumbs, ba aking sheet. Combin Lightly e the bread rbecue sauc e, and salt in a large bow apple, onion, egg, l.

Add the ma and stir to b ple len well using d. Add the pork and c syrup you om the mixture r hands, but try not to bine too much. F squeeze orm 1-inch meatballs a -round nd place th e m Bake the m eatballs un on the baking sheet. til c to 20 minu tes. Serve h ooked through, 16 o t, with extr sauce on th a barbecue e side.

This recip this recip e is a perfect exam e fo ple of a m id perfect w r Maple-Barbecu eeknight e Pork M week meal made family m easy e a of barbec tballs fro eal. Pile m Workm . Delicious and e ue sauce them on for an ea asy-to-pre an’s “Din rice sy and diff p n erent wee or couscous or quin er Solved!” make are, s the knight din oa with a ner. few extra spoonfuls

FEBRUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 7

Triple Threat

parenting triplets in the Capital District

A full house = lots of love

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y house is full of people who I love with all my heart. Harlan, the trio, my mom and I have some fabulous adventures, crazy conversations and we support each other. Sometimes explaining what is going on in our lives can be a long, meandering conversation. Each of the adults is independent. Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca are not as independent as they would like to think. I’m a part of this amazing group, and they even let me think that I am in charge sometimes!

As the mom of triplets, my life can get a bit hectic. So many of the milestones have or will happen around the same time because … well, triplets. They started school

at the same time, finished elementary school at the same time, started middle school at the same time, and I bet they finish middle school at the same time. At this point the differences are becoming more and more important. I love the spirit they have. Sometimes there’s a little too much spirit!

Academically and socially the kids are similar but not the same. The skills each possess can be used to light a fuse or light up a sibling or two in a beautiful glow.

remember being a 12-year-old girl. Harlan remembers being a 12-year-old boy. No matter which way the kids jump, we have them covered. Olivia and Rebecca have the tearful incomprehensible exclamations as by they slam out of a room. Benjamin has that sullen sulk that he thinks he alone perfected. Times have certainly changed in the last 30-three plus years, but some pieces of growing up are the same no matter what generation you’re from.

My job as mom is not easy now that I have three 12-yearolds full of hormones. Luckily for Olivia and Rebecca, I do

As often as possible, Harlan and I spend time with one child at a time. These dates are special. Harlan loves to

Jennifer Steuer

take one of them out to lunch wherever they want to go and just spend time together. Not only do I get to learn more about each of my children, but they get to learn a little about their dad and me.

Olivia is more expressive and less frustrated because conversations are not interrupted by phone calls, texts, television or chores. This young lady has so many fantastic ideas on how to make the world a better place, and she sees beauty in the everyday. Olivia gets so excited about each sunrise and sunset.

The moon and stars enchant her. She is also an outstanding organizer. I love watching the way she thinks and expresses her love for her family.

Continued on Page 18

EVER WONDER IF THERE’S LIFE ON OTHER PLANETS? LUCIANNE WALKOWICZ

ASTRONOMER, THE ADLER PLANETARIUM

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GIRLS IN STEM BECOME WOMEN WHO CHANGE THE WORLD. LEARN MORE @SHECANSTEM ON INSTAGRAM

Learning Center WHO ACTUALLY DO.

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

Anxiety doesn’t always look like anxiety

Adelle Cadieux, a clinical pediatric psychologist at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Michigan, wants parents to know that withdrawing from social situations, an unwillingness to engage in new experiences, and a reluctance to join extracurricular activities are all signs of anxiety — signs parents often miss.

“Your child may not say, ‘I’m anxious,’ but may make statements about not wanting to do something or statements about not liking an activity,” says Cadieux.

Cadieux shared some other common symptoms of anxiety at this age: • School refusal • Decrease in school performance • Increase in behavioral problems at school • Increased irritability • Increased defiance, at school and socially • Changes in sleep • Poor self-esteem

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

WHO THINK

You know it’s time to intervene, says Cadieux, when your child’s anxiety is interfering with their ability to function at school, at home or socially.

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

“For example, if getting your child to school each day has become a combat zone, it’s time to intervene,” says Cadieux.

Additionally, if your child seems to be struggling in school, withdrawing from friends or activities, or generally having a difficult time, you should consider intervening.

KNOW FOR SURE

IF YOUR CHILD IS IN THE RIGHT CAR SEAT.

Give us a call today.

VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/THERIGHTSEAT

518.377.2015

920 Albany St. • Schenectady

To help an anxious middle schooler, find an undistracted time (in the car, at dinner, or AGX-2A001D AD COUNCIL “NHTSA Pencil” to your at bedtime)Non-Bleed: to talk 3.5” x 10” Magazine Thin Vertical child and 4/Cask how they’re feelLine Screen: 133 Pubs: Various ing. But don’t just talk: Being a Insertion Date: 2012 good listener is vital.

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“Try to avoid dismissing the feeling or telling your child they shouldn’t feel that way,” Cadieux recommends.

“Acknowledge their feelings.

Maybe even repeat what you heard them say so that your child knows you understand.”

Notes: None

If you have tried everything you can think of, and really aren’t sure what to do, it’s time to reach out for additional help, says Cadieux.

You can contact a therapist, your pediatrician, or a school counselor.

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

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any children have anxiety, but it doesn’t look like most people expect it to. Fast talking, nervous pacing, etc.

Instead, children can become withdrawn and afraid to try anything new. Children can refuse to join any extracurricular activities, even ones they seemed interested in. They can even stop participating in family activities they previously enjoyed, such as going to restaurants, family fun places, movies and vacations.

THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE

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Patrick McNamara by

The signs of stress

CHOOSE CAR SEAT:

BY AGE & SIZE

THE ONES

FEBRUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 9

How parents can approac aming is a popular activity across the globe. Studies have shown that more than one billion people across the globe play some type of video game every day, and the number of gamers is growing every day. In fact, the market and consumer data provider Statista estimates there will be 2.7 billion gamers by 2021.

Such prevalence can make it hard for parents to govern their youngsters’ gaming habits. As difficult as it can be to get kids to put their controllers down, the American Academy of Pediatrics notes that time spent gaming can take away from the time kids spend on other pursuits, including healthy activities like exercising and reading. That’s part of the reason why the AAP recommends limiting the time kids spend gaming to no more than one hour per day.

In addition to limiting how much time kids spend gaming, parents can take these steps to make sure kids’ gaming experiences are as positive as possible.

FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF with a game’s content before allowing kids to play it. Parents should be concerned by how long their youngsters play video games, and also by the content of those games. First-person shooter games remain incredibly popular, but such games can have an adverse effect on young players. The AAP notes that studies have shown that children exposed

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ch raising gamers safely and with boundaries to virtual violence, such as that depicted in first-person shooter games, and violent media have shown that they may become numb to violence and even imitate the violence. Parents should always vet a game before allowing their children to play it. Make sure its content is not too mature and/or violent for children.

CONFIRM ESRB RATINGS. Parents of young children likely don’t allow their youngsters to watch R-rated films, but they might not know that a similar rating system exists for video games. ESRB ratings help parents make informed decisions about the video games and the apps their children play. The ratings, which are broken down at www.esrb.org, are included on game packaging labels and let parents know how appropriate or inappropriate a game may be for children. Founded by the Interactive Digital Software Association in 1994, the ESRB notes that 61 percent of its ratings for physical and console downloadable video games in 208 were rated either E (Everyone) or E10+ (Everyone 10+). That means parents of children under 10 have many age-appropriate game options when buying games for their kids.

KEEP CONSOLES IN COMMON AREAS. By limiting gaming to common areas in the home, parents can more closely monitor how

ESRB ratings help parents make informed decisions about the video games and the apps their children play. The ratings, which are broken down at www. esrb.org, are included on game packaging labels and let parents know how appropriate or inappropriate a game may be for children. much time their youngsters are spending playing games. The AAP recommends parents designate handheld games as “family property” as opposed to items each child “owns.” This can help parents make sure such devices are kept in common areas at all times.

PLAY WITH CHILDREN. Another way parents can monitor what their kids are playing and how long they’re playing for is to play with them. Multiple player games are very popular, and parents can use that popularity to more effectively manage their kids’ gaming habits. And it can be some good bonding time.

Did you know?

Gaming might seem like an unlikely topic to find its way into political discourse, but that’s precisely what happened in 2019 when presidential candidate Andrew Yang discussed loot boxes.

Loot boxes, which have been included in many popular games, ask players who have already purchased the games to spend even more to buy randomized digital content, such as player outfits and weapons, that can be used by gamers. In theory, the boxes can make the games more engaging. However, the returns on the boxes are random, meaning gamers don’t know what’s in them before purchasing them. That has led some lawmakers to question the practice of including loot boxes in games, with some even suggesting that the practice is no different than gambling.

Loot boxes have drawn the attention of the Federal Trade Commission, an American watchdog group that vowed to investigate the process. Some countries have taken measures to protect gamers from loot boxes. That includes Belgium, which has outlawed loot boxes, and China, which has attempted to force companies to disclose the odds to gamers before they purchase the boxes.

s. But various strategies can help moms and dads keep tabs on those habits.

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n u F s d i K e g a P

CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Romantic feelings 3. Part of mouth 5. Sun slightly below the horizon 6. Sugary foods DOWN 1. Written words 2. Can be seen 3. Degree to what action is taken 4. Drawing or photo

ACROSS: 1. Love 3. Lip 5. Twilight 6. Sweets DOWN: 1. Letters 2. Visible 3. Lengths 4. Picture

Coloring Fun

12 PARENT PAGES — FEBRUARY 2020

Calendar of events

family fun for February

February 1 Saturday

Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Pick of the month

Family STEAM Night

Take Your Child to the Library Day

Our local schools and colleges will be here with fun STEAM activities, 6:30 p.m.

For grades 2-6 and their families. This month, the RPI Science Ambassadors will lead the activities. Registration required.

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

Area libraries are hosting a variety of special events and activities to encourage families to drop in and see all they have to offer. Check your library’s website for details.

World Culture

Groggy Groundhogs Discuss the origins of Groundhog Day and make your own predictions about how long winter will last, 11 a.m. Plan to walk approximately one mile. For ages 6 and up.

Program is free, but reservations required.

Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

4 Tuesday Chess Club

Feb.

8

Five Rivers Family Fun: Animal Tracks

Valentine’s Day Card Making

3 Monday

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

2 Sunday All-You-Can Eat Breakfast Buffet and Omelet Station

Waterford Knights of Columbus buffet featuring our omelet station, eggs cooked to order, pancakes, (plain and blueberry) French toast, sausage, bacon, home fries, Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art toast, bagels, pastries, coffee, tea, orange and apple juices, hot chocolate, 8-11 a.m. studio on Saturdays for drop-in art making Cost is $8 for adults and $4 for children; based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Museum admission is $6-$10 and free free for those under 4. Waterford Knights of Columbus Hall, 76 Grace St., Waterford. For for children under 6. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. more information, call (518) 237-9330.

Art for All: Recycled & Refashioned Shoes

Sign up for one session per night and try your hand at chess with our teen volunteers, 5:30 p.m. OR 6:30 p.m. All experience levels welcome. For grades K-5. All events are free and take place at Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Learn about animal signs, cast your own track to take home, and enjoy an outside walk searching for footprints, 2 p.m. All ages welcome. Call to register. Free. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call (518) 475-0291 or visit www.dec.ny.gov/education/1835.html.

Homework Helpers Volunteer honor students from local high schools will tutor school-aged children in all subjects, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. For students in grade 1 and up. William K. Sandford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany.

For more information, visit www.colonielibrary.org or call (518) 810-0315.

Little Lego Let your imagination flow with creative and collaborative play using our extensive LEGO collection, 3:30 p.m. Grades K-3; for younger siblings, we offer Duplo.

Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western

We’re online!

Be sure to visit our website…

p Capital District

The World Awareness Children’s Museum will present hands-on programs about cultures and customs from around the globe, as well as make and take projects; 11 a.m.: World Food, 1 p.m.: World Clothing. For children ages 3and up accompanied by an adult. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Hear a story about love and friendship, then create Valentine’s Day cards for family and friends, 4:15 p.m. Dress for a mess. For ages 3 and up, accompanied by an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

5 Wednesday Beading Bonanza Stop by the library to make bracelets, necklaces, and other creative beaded crafts, 3-7 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 South Main St., Castleton-on-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

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Calendar of events 5 Wednesday (cont.)

Valentine’s for Vets Join Diane Payette (aka Grama Tippy Toes) for our annual Valentine’s Day celebration, including wrapping gifts and decorating cupcakes for hospitalized veterans, 6:30 p.m.

For children ages 3-8 accompanied by an adult; no registration necessary. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Winter Miniature Diorama

family fun for February

main lobby desk. New York State Museum, 22 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

7 Friday What Is Your Favorite Color?

Listen to stories about color and, if there’s snow, play with color outside. Otherwise, enjoy an inside color craft, 10 a.m. For children up to age 6 with caregiver. All events are free and take place at Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar.

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

We’ll use tiny objects to create a one-ofa-kind winter diorama seasonal scene, 3:45 Library Friends Play Time p.m. Grades 4-12. Registration required. GuilChildren ages 12 to 36 months and their derland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, parents are invited to the library to play and Guilderland. For more information, call (518) interact with others while using age appropri456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org. ate toys, books and puzzles, 9:10 a.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, 6 Thursday Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) Story Art 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Enjoy the museum by listening to a story, Super Smash Bros. exploring objects from the teaching collecUltimate Afternoon tion, and creating a fun art project, 11-11:45 Join your friends to play Super Smash Bros. a.m. Themes will be announced on the day Ultimate on the Nintendo Switch! Snacks of the program. Free; pick up tickets at the provided, 3:45 p.m. For ages 9 and up. All

Get the word out!

List your event for parents & children in our monthly calendar

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

Want to draw more business online?

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

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www.cdparentpages.com

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events are free and take place at Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar.

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

8 Saturday No-Sew Sock Bunnies A fun bunny craft to give you the warm fuzzies. Register children individually, 1 p.m. For ages 5-11. Sign up online or call.

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

Saturday Stomp Let the wild rumpus begin with a joyful time of music, movement and stories, 10 a.m. For kids and families. William K. Sandford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, visit www. colonielibrary.org or call (518) 810-0315.

Concerts for Tots: Valentine’s Day Concert Spend the morning hearing songs about love in this interactive, engaging experience filled with fun festive classical music, children’s songs and more, 10:30 a.m.

Tickets start at $15. Massry Center for the

Arts, College of Saint Rose, 1002 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, visit concertsfortots.com.

Art for All: Recycled & Refashioned Shoes Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art studio on Saturdays for drop-in art making based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Museum admission is $6-$10 and free for children under 6. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany.

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

Winterfest at Wilton Wildlife Preserve & Park Join us at Camp Saratoga for a day of snowy fun! The day kicks off with the DION 8k Snowshoe race, 10:30 a.m. There will be a bonfire with hot cocoa and s’mores. Snowshoes and Cross Country Skis will be available for rental from the Information Cabin in Parking Lot #1, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Rentals are $5. Wilton Wildlife Preserve, 80 Scout Road, Gansevoort. For more information, call (518) 450-0321.

Continued on the next page

family fun for February

9 Sunday

11 Tuesday

Kids Valentine’s Cookie Decorating Event

KBA: Kids Builder Association

Includes one heart-shaped sugar cookie and the decorating supplies needed to customize their valentine, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Cost is $5 per child; call to reserve a spot.

Bountiful Bread, 1475 Western Ave., Albany.

For more information or to register, call (518) 438-3540.

Harlem Globetrotters The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters, featuring larger-than-life entertainers, will bring their all-new show, “Pushing the Limits,” 1 p.m. Tickets start at $48. Times Union Center, 51 S. Pearl St., Albany. For more information, visit www.timesunioncenteralbany.com.

Terrific Turtles Learn what types of turtles live in the Pine Bush, where they live, and how they survive, 1 p.m. Program is entirely indoors, and participants will have the opportunity to see and learn about the live turtles that live in the Discovery Center. For all ages.

Program is free, but reservations required.

Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

10 Monday Read to Lacey the Therapy Dog Lacey loves for kids to read to her! Stop in to read to Lacey or just say “hi,” 4-5 p.m.

Castleton Public Library, 85 South Main St., Castleton-on-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www. castletonpubliclibrary.org.

Submit an event

Build your own 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.

12 Wednesday Anti-Valentine’s Day Party Make some chocolate candies and funny anti-Valentine’s Day cards, 6:30 p.m. For ages 9 and up. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar.

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

Library Club Join us for an afterschool snack as we talk about our favorite books, plan future programs, and do a project to benefit the Library, 3:30 p.m.

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

13 Thursday Library Tots Special: Family Musical Movers An instructor from local dance, music, and yoga studio, Kind Performing Arts, will lead the children in a fun and interactive music and movement class sure to delight, 10-11 a.m. For up to age 4 with a caregiver.

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

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

Hearts & Crafts Stop in to make a Valentine’s Day craft for someone special in your life, 3-6 p.m.

Castleton Public Library, 85 South Main St., Castleton-on-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

GPL Adventures: Che-Mystery Uncover the mysteries of physical and chemical

Calendar of events

changes with MadScience and make your own Super Ball, 3:30 p.m. Grades 3-5.

Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland.

For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

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

14 Friday Project Picture Book: Valentine’s Day Join us for a fun-read aloud and related art project, 3:30 p.m.

Grades PreK-2. Dress for a mess!

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

World Language Story Time: Spanish This international story time will include stories and songs in Spanish and English, plus a craft. No previous exposure to other languages needed, come and enjoy, 9:10 a.m. For children ages 3 and up accompanied by an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park.

For more information, call (518) 3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call (518) 475-0291 or visit www.dec. ny.gov/education/1835.html.

Rock and Fossil Fun Fair Also Sunday. Mine for minerals, forage for fossils, experiment with a river replica, and more at the 4th Annual Rock and Fossil Fun Fair at the New York State Museum. Bring your rocks and fossils from home for identification. With science activities, face painting, balloon animals, and prizes, you won’t want to miss this opportunity to have fun with science, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. New York State Museum, 22 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

Deep Freeze Amphibians and reptiles have unique ways to survive through the winter weather; learn why we call it “deep freeze,” 11 a.m.

Plan to hike approximately one mile. In case of snow, we will provide snowshoes. For ages 6 and up. Program is free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Little Gym Sample Class Join the staff of The Little Gym for a tumbling good time, 10 a.m. No registration required. William K. Sandford Town Library, 629 Albany Shaker Road, Albany. For more information, visit www.colonielibrary.org or call (518) 810-0315.

Art for All: Recycled & Refashioned Shoes

Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art Sweetest Day studio on Saturdays for drop-in art making Hear some sweet stories and stay to based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 decorate a sweet treat, 10 a.m. For children p.m. Museum admission is $6-$10 and free up to age 6 with caregiver. All events are for children under 6. Albany Institute of free and take place at Bethlehem Public History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany.

Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For For more information, call (518) 463-4478 more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit or visit www.albanyinstitute.org. bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

15 Saturday Five Rivers Family Fun: Squirrels for Kids

16 Sunday

Black History Step Show & HYP3st Dance Competition

Featuring some of the best step teams Bring the whole family for a brief presen- from the Capital Region and beyond for an tation, walk, craft project, and game that will afternoon of high energy performances, 5 teach us all about the squirrels in our area, p.m. Tickets cost $26 for adults and $21 for 2 p.m. Explore the winter world of these students. Palace Theatre, 19 Clinton Ave., entertaining acrobats through the tracks, Albany. For more information, call (518) food piles and nests they leave behind. For 465-3334 or visit www.palacealbany.org. ages 5-10. Call to register. Free. Five Rivers Continued on the next page Environmental Education Center, 56 Game FEBRUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 15

Capital District

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Calendar of events 17 Monday Mid-Winter Recess Nature Journaling Also Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Use the Albany Pine Bush as inspiration to make your own journal. There will be a variety of nature journaling activities set up for to explore inside at your own pace.

Materials will be provided. Sign up for one or more 30-minute time slots between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. For all ages. Program is free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

The Resource for Parents

Upcoming Monthly Themes & Deadlines

Reptile Adventure

March

Enjoy a hands-on educational program with live snakes, lizards and turtles, 10:30 a.m. OR 1:15 p.m. All events are free and take place at Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

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

Forgotten

April

A Steamer No. 10 CAST Production featuring the new adventures of Peter Pan and Wendy, 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for students and seniors and $20 for adults. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For more information, visit www.steamer10theatre.org or call (518) 438-5503.

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

18 Tuesday

May

The Fourth Wall: Fruit Flies Like a Banana

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

A combination of a classical music performance, dance and Vaudeville, 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for students and seniors and $20 for adults. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For more information, visit www.steamer10theatre. org or call (518) 438-5503.

June

Little Blue Truck: A Sensory Learning Experience

Father’s Day Adolescents Saratoga County: Parenting Resources Deadline: May 4th

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call

Denice Mau at 518-439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com 16 PARENT PAGES — FEBRUARY 2020

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Share in the adventure of Little Blue and his animal friends who work together to rescue a truck stuck in the mud. Children will have a chance to fill and dump in the sensory bin and try rugged truck painting while working as a team with their caregivers and friends, 10 a.m. Presented by Brightside Up (formerly the Capital District Child Care Council). For children up to age 6 with caregiver. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more

family fun for February

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

Clifford the Big Red Dog with WMHT’s Barbara Lukas Join us to celebrate Clifford’s birthday with a DVD, fun crafts and photo opportunities, 10:30 a.m. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

A Morning with Author/ Illustrator Elizabeth Zunon Elizabeth Zunon will share the story of her grandfather in her most recent book “Grandpa Cacao: A Tale of Chocolate, From Farm to Family,” followed by a hands-on activity and chocolate sampling, 10:30 a.m. to noon. For ages 4-Grade 3 and families.

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

Strengthening Families Workshop A fun, interactive workshop that allows parents/caregivers to spend special time with their children and learn ways to build on existing strengths, improve communication skills, and have fun together as a family, 6-8:30 p.m. A pizza dinner will be provided.

For grades 5 to 8 with caregivers. Please register. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Family Fun Workshop Join us for a reading of the story “Mouse Paint,” about three white mice who find some jars of paint, then learn about colors while using unusual painting materials and mixing colors, 11 a.m. Presented by Brightside Up. Dress for a mess. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Family Trivia Bring the kids and put your brains together! Questions range from preschool to adult – but all are family friendly, 6:30 p.m. Prizes and light refreshments will be provided. For ages 4 and up. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

family fun for February

18 Tuesday (cont.)

‘Frozen’ Family Fun Day Featuring pre-film games and activities, doors open at noon and movie starts at 1 p.m. Tickets are $5. Palace Theatre, 19 Clinton Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 465-3334 or visit www. palacealbany.org.

Cool Science: Chain Reactions Join us at the library to learn about chain reactions and design your own Rube Goldberg machine, 3-5 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 South Main St., Castleton-on-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

19 Wednesday Perler Bead Crafts Stop by and make something awesome out of perler beads, noon-6 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 South Main St., Castleton-on-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

Snow Crafty Make winter crafts from a variety of materials including recycled items, 11 a.m.-noon. For ages 4 and up, accompanied by an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Kids’ Movie Matinee Enjoy the 2019 version of a children’s classic with the following description: “After the murder of his father, a young lion prince flees his kingdom only to learn the true meaning of responsibility and bravery,” 1:30 p.m.

Refreshments will be served. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville.

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

Family Book Discussion with Author Skype Visit Join other families for an exciting evening of food and discussion; potluck begins at 6 p.m. – bring a dish to share. For grades 4-8 with parent or caregiver. Register and pick up a copy of the book at the Information Desk. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary. org or call (518) 765-2791.

Building Challenges Stop by any time during this drop-in program to test yourself with our open

building challenges, 2:30 p.m. We will provide LEGOs, keva planks, a marble run, and more. Grades 2-5. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland.

For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

‘The Secret Life of Pets 2’

Calendar of events

Kids’ Book Bingo

with coupon. Rides and other vendors inside are an additional cost. For ride prices Come play bingo at the library with go to www.commerfordzoo.com. Times our special book-themed bingo set, 1 p.m.

Union Center, 51 S. Pearl St., Albany. For more Castleton Public Library, 85 South Main information, visit www.timesunioncenterSt., Castleton-on-Hudson. For more informa- albany.com. tion, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www. castletonpubliclibrary.org.

Art for All: Recycled

Max and his pet friends explore the idyllic Family Book Discussion: farm they now call home, once their owner is Finding Langston absent. Rated PG, 6:30 p.m. Guilderland PubRead and discuss Lesa Cline-Ransome’s lic Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland.

For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or story about a family’s move from Alabama to Chicago during the Great Migration, 2 p.m. visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

All events are free and take place at BethThe Yo-Yo People lehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., An exciting performance of yo-yo’s, Delmar. For more information, call 518-439hula hoops, and juggling, 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. 9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Tickets cost $15 for students and seniors and Library Luau $20 for adults. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Escape winter and warm up with a tropiWestern Ave., Albany. For more information, cal themed indoor beach party at the library visit www.steamer10theatre.org or call with crafts, stories, games and luau-themed (518) 438-5503. treats for a fun-filled afternoon, 1 p.m.

20 Thursday Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more informaFrogtown Mountain tion, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.

Puppets: The Legend cphlibrary.org.

of the Banana Kid

Chucky cleans up the Wild West, while packing a Banana, 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for students and seniors and $20 for adults. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For more information, visit www.steamer10theatre.org or call (518) 438-5503.

Build With Boxes Stack ’em up and see how big your box build can get. Like blocks, but bigger, 10 a.m.

Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Magician Jim Snack

21 Friday The Mercy Run of 1925: Dog Sled Reenactment Rob Farley, October Siberians owner and musher, will discuss and reenact the Dog Sled Mercy Run of 1925, 2-4 p.m. Dress for the weather, we’ll be outside with the dogs for the second half of the presentation. Drop-in program for all ages. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Meet Your Local K9

Popular local magician will entertain and amaze, 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Tickets cost $15 for students and seniors and $20 for adults. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For more information, visit www.steamer10theatre. org or call (518) 438-5503.

Guilderland Police Officer Don Jones will share how police dogs are chosen and trained, and will demonstrate his canine partner, Zeus, in action. All ages, 2 p.m. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Clifford’s Birthday Celebration with WMHT

Commerford Fun Fair

Celebrate everyone’s favorite big red dog!

Meet Clifford and join WMHT for a story, craft, & birthday cake, 10:30 a.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 South Main St., Castleton-on-Hudson.

For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

22 Saturday

& Refashioned Shoes

Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art studio on Saturdays for drop-in art making based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Museum admission is $6-$10 and free for children under 6. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany.

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

Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Show Also Sunday. Vendors from throughout the Northeast display and sell gems, jewelry, minerals, lapidary equipment, fossils, and much more on the 4th-floor terrace galler7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This event is co-sponsored by the Capital District Mineral Club and the New York Academy of Mineralogy. Cost is $5 per adult; free for children 12 and under.

New York State Museum, 22 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, visit www. nysm.nysed.gov.

‘Grandpa Cacao’ with Elizabeth Zunon Elizabeth Zunon reads “Grandpa Cacao: A Tale of Chocolate, from Farm to Family,” her author-illustrated picture book, 2 p.m.

Activities to follow. Grades K-5; registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Kids Cook! Mini Pizzas Join us to make personal pizzas with a variety of fun toppings, 2 p.m. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Castleton Public Library, 85 South Main St., Castleton-on-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

Family Yoga Enjoy practicing yoga together in this playful family yoga and mindfulness class, 10 a.m. For children ages 4 and up accompanied by an adult. Optional: Bring a water bottle and yoga mat. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park.

For more information, call (518) 3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Also Sunday. A fun, friendly, and safe place to bring your family with rides, games and a unique chance to interact with exotic animals; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $16 for Continued on the next page adults and free for accompanying children FEBRUARY 2020 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 17

Calendar of events 22 Saturday (cont.)

Family Story Time: Furry Friends Bears, sheep, cats, dogs, and even skunks are just some of the animals we will celebrate with lively stories, rhymes, and songs, 2 p.m. For ages 2-5, accompanied by an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

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

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

Happy Birthday, Clifford!

Enjoy some Clifford books, watch an episode of the show, make a Clifford puppet,

n 24-Hour Shift continued from Page 4 If you think corporal punishment is lacking these days, consider that the adopted child may have been physically abused.

Spanking will do absolutely nothing except teach them that trusting adults is a complete waste of time. In the reverse, if a parent ignores the child if the child hits the parent (GASP!), the parent simply does not want to escalate the situation and make it worse.

I promise the plan is to remove the child, only it has to be done in the safest manner possible. Even if it takes an excruciatingly long time and makes everyone’s ears bleed.

Then why bring them out if they’re going to act like that, you ask? Well I ask you, how do you think they’re going to learn social skills alone at home? And segregation infringes on their human rights, so don’t even go there.

18 PARENT PAGES — FEBRUARY 2020

family fun for February

sing happy birthday, eat a piece of birthday cake, and take a photo with our special doggie pal, Clifford, 2-3:30 p.m. For grades Pre-K-2 and their families. Please register. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville.

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

24 Monday Chess Club Sign up for one session per night and try your hand at chess with our teen volunteers, 5:30 p.m. OR 6:30 p.m. All experience levels welcome. For grades K-5. All events are free and take place at Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

25 Tuesday Preschool Movies A series of short, literature-based films, 10:15 a.m. For ages 3-6 accompanied by an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Take heart, cringer, you’re not supposed to like the sound of a child crying and screaming. It’s biological. Humans don’t like it so they find a way to (hopefully) soothingly stop it and therefore respond to a child’s needs.

Adoptive parents sometimes can’t parent in a traditional, for lack of a better word, manner.

What looks like bad parenting is actually active, involved parenting. The worst thing you can do is interfere.

And if you are silently cursing them, don’t worry, those parents in that awful scene are already dying inside. Try to empathize with them. And if you happen to be related to or friends with the parents and their little ones, bring them a bowl of popcorn and give them a hug.

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.

Salt Painting Create unique artwork using glue, salt, and food coloring, 3-6 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 South Main St., Castleton-on-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

28 Friday Celebrate the Leap Year Hop into Leap Day with some frogthemed crafts and activities, 4 p.m. For grades K-5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 518-439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Munchkins and Mocktails A playtime with a mocktail twist for caregivers, 10 a.m. Ages 0-5; registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Avenue, Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400; or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Music & Motion Experience all the fun that music and motion brings with a variety of interac-

n Triple Threat continued from Page 8 Rebecca is all about trying new things, fighting for others, and pushing the envelope of conformity. She has many dreams, and if she achieves just one of them the status quo will be rocked to the core. We get to hear about the music she loves. She tells us about the clubs she belongs to and the kids she hangs out with. I watch that infectious optimism, and she inspires me. This isn’t a typo: I want to be like her when I grow up.

Benjamin shows us that kids on the Autism spectrum can get in trouble for socializing too much in school. Ben has a very quiet side and a side that is quite wild too. When he gets us all to himself he doesn’t stop talking, almost like he has to use all the words he can because his sisters talk a bit more than he does.

tive movement activities, 10:30 a.m. For ages 2-6 accompanied by an adult. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

29 Saturday Terrific Turtles Learn what types of turtles live in the Pine Bush, where they live, and how they survive, 11 a.m. Participants will have the opportunity to see and learn about the live turtles that live in the Discovery Center. For all ages. Free, but reservations required.

Albany Pine Bush Discover Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org

International Taste of the World Festival A celebration of the many cultures that make our Albany Academies community so special, 3-5:30 p.m. Free. Albany Academy for Girls, 135 Academy Road, Albany. For more information, call (518) 429-2300.

We notice a completely different vibe when we are in these small groups. Our conversations are easier and we can pay full attention to words, body language and feel the excitement they want to give to every detail. There is a special relationship with each child.

The six of us together became something like planets that orbit one another. Each adult and child has an orbit, we are not just individuals, we are influenced by each other and any change in one person’s orbit pulls or pushes at another. The Steuer and Kloss family system is unique, but we are STRONG and we are all LOVED. Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom whose busy household includes her husband, Harlan, and 12-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca. Follow her on Instagram: jennifersteuer.

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