Capital District Parent Pages - July 2019 by Spotlight Newspapers

Inside:

July calendar listings

arent pages

Capital District

Volume 23 • Number 7 • JULY 2019 • Complimentary

Berry good toast

The Resource for Parents

Memories to last a lifetime Make summer learning fun

cdparentpages.com JULY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 1

BOOK YOUR SUMMER BIRTHDAY PARTY AT DINO ROAR VALLEY

A CELEBRATION ALL KIDS WILL DIG! DINO ROAR VALLEY PROMISES ADVENTURE, DISCOVERY, AND A ROARING GOOD TIME. From cretaceous chops to dino dance parties, our party planners have you covered! Explores will be able to let their growl out, party like a dinosaur and create dino-mite summer memories.

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CALL 518-668-ROAR (7627) Events@LakeGeorgeExpeditionPark.com

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Summer has so much potential Sometimes the real joy is just thinking about all the things you CAN do

was recently re-reading something my daughters wrote about why they love summer vacation.

p Capital District

Editor’s desk

arent pages The Resource for Parents

July 2019 Features Game night!

Columnists Let’s Cook!

My oldest, who was 11 at the time, talked about how she was going to enjoy spending more time outside riding her bike, along with other outdoor activities like camping and hiking. She also said she was looking forward to “read, read, reading” the days away.

Triple Threat

Show Money Who’s Boss

Even back then, those goals were probably a little more aspirational than realistic (except for the reading — she was a HUGE bookworm). In reality, she doesn’t really like the outdoors and tends to wilt in the heat and humidity. But sometimes it’s just the idea of summer that sparks the imagination, leading us to fantasize about all the things we know it could entail: lazy days at the pool, s’mores over a campfire, gardening, traveling etc. — whether we actually enjoy those things or not. For school-age kids, the start of summer is ripe with potential.

What’s new

These days, my older daughter, who is now 16, is looking forward to picking up more hours at her job so she can save money for a car. And even though I know this is more realistic than aspirational, there’s a part of me that wishes she were looking at her summer a little more like her 11-year-old self once did.

Birthday resources

Learning Center

10-11

On the Bookshelf Kids Fun Page

4 12

Resources 9

Calendar 14-18

On the other hand, my younger daughter’s 9-year-old self wrote that the best part of summer is sleeping in as long as she wants, and I guarantee she would say the same thing today. *** We received so many great portraits and candids of Capital District kids during our contest over the winter, and you can expect to see them on future covers in the coming months. One more thing: You don’t have to wait for a contest to submit a potential cover shot; email them to me anytime at robertsk@spotlightnews.com. Also feel free to send your suggestions, ideas, comments and pictures to me at robertsk@spotlightnews.com. You can check out the latest at www.cdparentpages.com. Kristen Roberts Editor, Capital District Parent Pages

On the cover: Emerson, 19 months, of Clifton Park, enjoys some time on his swing in this photo submitted by his mom, Kristen. Parent Pages is always accepting photos for potential covers. Submissions should be at least 8-by-10-inches with a dpi of 400. They can be sent via email to robertsk@spotlightnews.com.

publisher - John

McIntyre editor - Kristen Roberts advertising sales - Denice Mau art director - David Abbott graphic design - Martha Eriksen Capital District Parent Pages is a unit of Community Media Group LLC. Published monthly. Deadline for advertising and calendar events is the 5th of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates are available on request. Capital District Parent Pages reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. We do not guarantee any of the information, services or products published in this or any issue. The opinions expressed by the contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this paper. Copyright 2013 by Capital District Parent Pages. No portion of Capital District Parent Pages may be reproduced without written permission from Community Media Group LLC. Rachelle & Lawrence Stallman Founders of Capital District Parent Pages

JULY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 3

On the Bookshelf

Lazy summer days for reading ‘While Grandpa Naps’

‘The Last Peach’

by Naomi Danis; illustrated by Junghwa Park

by Gus Gordon Contemplating eating the last peach of the summer, two indecisive bugs consider if the peach is rotten or juicy, who should be allowed to eat it and whether or not to share it. Roaring Brook Press

Gilbert spends a sunny summer afternoon obediently keeping watch over his napping grandpa to shoo the pesky flies away, passing the time by contemplating his ever-changing family. In the end, his quiet dedication finds a sweet reward. Pow! Books

‘Jasper & Ollie’ by Alex Willan

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Two unlikely friends – a thoughtful, time-savoring sloth and an impulsive, impatient fox – demonstrate whimsical personality differences during a visit to the pool, marked by one’s mad-dash race straight into the water and the other’s relaxed, neighborly stroll through the community. Doubleday Books

Let’s Cook! by

Jodie Fitz

A toast to freshness!

un fact: Did you know there are an average of 200 seeds on the outside of each strawberry? Know what else is fun? Transforming that strawberry into a silly squid creation perched atop a slice of toast. This fruity toast recipe makes a colorful treat for breakfast or

an afternoon snack. Kids can help out in the kitchen and practice their measuring and kitchen safety skills while they learn how to use fresh fruit in recipes. Get more recipes from Jodie through the Price Chopper Cooking Club at www.pricechopper. com. To learn more about her, visit www.jodiefitz.com.

Fruity Toast

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

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

1/4 cup fresh blueberries 1/8 cup cream cheese 1 tablespoon honey 2 strawberries, large 1 slice of cinnamon raisin toast Wash the blueberries and strawberries. Pat them dry. Place the blueberries and honey in a mini food processor or blender and finely puree them. Fold the blueberry mixture into the cream cheese to create a colorful

and tasty spread. Cut the greens off of the two strawberries. Slice one of the strawberries into thin slices. Toast the bread. Spread the blueberry cream cheese on top. Place the sliced strawberries in a circle on the toast to create squid legs. Place the large strawberry on top. Spread a tiny amount of cream cheese onto the back of the candy eyes and place them onto the strawberry.

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

Presented by:

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Triple Threat

parenting triplets in the Capital District

Summer is a time to leisurely dream

It’s also about knowing when to let the memories make themselves

watched them ride their bikes with such confidence as the sun set and the birds flew overhead. I listened to the laughter and challenges tossed back and forth. Each child was riding their bicycle showing off their skills.

eat our supper. Of course, in this fantasy there is no need for a room looking over the water for Harlan’s dialysis supplies and machinery. In my fantasy, Harlan is no longer sick. Summer nights usually mean that routines are relaxed and we can just breathe a little more deeply. School nights feel like an extension of school mornings, which feel like an extension of school nights, and that treadmill feels so fast, repetitive and never ending. Summer vacation means kids can read until 11 instead of 10 p.m., and if there is no place to be the next morning, they can sleep as late as they want.

I was sitting outside in my rocking chair before the official start of summer enjoying the cool breeze and lack of mosquitoes. Sitting next to me in the other rocking chair was Harlan. He was watching our trio as they rode ’round and ’round the yard. I knew that it was a school night and the kids should be getting ready for bed. I knew that there was laundry, dishes, endless chores … Here is what I also knew: Kids need to make memories to keep them company when life gets hard. Kids with a chronically ill parent don’t always have the time to make all the happy memories that their friends might, so that night Harlan and I sat together watching our children laugh and play well after the stars came out to welcome another beautiful night.

Harlan and the triplets treasure moments spent together, and summertime allows the Steuer family to slow down a little and relax. ing just as much fun as the kids. Some nights the five Steuers can be found outside wrapped in warm PJs, way past bedtime gazing up trying to see the meteor showers, talking about constellations, what a light year is and what great facts Rebecca, Olivia and Benjamin learned at the MiSci planetarium. I am hoping that the kids will remember these good times

Jennifer Steuer

Our family isn’t what anyone would call wealthy. We don’t go on exciting vacations or have a cabin in Maine. What my family does have are experiences and dreams. We have gone to baseball games scoring sunburns, smiling under baseball hats and finishing a scavenger hunt with mom and dad hav-

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we had together as a family. We also talk about our big dream of having a cabin in Maine. We go into detail about our dream cabin, room by room. The living room has a fireplace with a large, sapphire sectional sofa and windows everywhere so we can see the stars from the inside and we are all together. Outside we have a fire pit, a wonderful dock for the kayaks and a screened in deck to keep the mosquitoes from eating us alive while we

I want Rebecca, Benjamin and Olivia keep having amazing experiences so that they have fun memories when they get older. For me, the memories I have of my father mean the world to me. I share those memories with his grandkids, and they love to hear about when I was a little girl. Someday, my kids might share memories of riding bikes and showing off for their dad as the sun set and the birds flew home for the night. I hope Harlan can hold onto this memory when his treatments get him down. Memories, they can be wonderful things. 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.

Gerard Bialek photo

Making family finances work for you

Show Money Who’s Boss

De-cluttering and digging deep

Clear out the chaos for a fresh start

can’t be the only one who thinks of selling stuff when I want some cash. My house is filled with So. Much. Stuff. Even the hidden spaces – the closets, the attic, the closed drawers, the entire garage – are packed full of … what? Junk? Not exactly. Some. But also usable items that are not getting used at all. Not by me. So the immediate thought is: Maybe someone else could use them. And maybe someone else would pay me money for these things. It’s gaby rage sale season after all, and the sales continue year-round, day and night online, too.

Heather E. Schwartz

A few months ago, seeking help and guidance to maximize my ability to collect cash, I Googled phrases like the clunky “sell my stuff for money” and the more alliterative “cash for clutter.” This quickly led me to Denise Duffield-Thomas, a money mindset mentor who has not only figured out how to maximize search engines, she’s also nailed the whole money thing. I read a post she wrote about how decluttering and money are connected and felt really inspired. Clutter was symbolic of my chaotic relationship with money? Well, then. I was ready to declutter! Walking through my house in search of easy-to-remove-and-sell items seemed easier than digging into attics and closets. When you have kids, you automatically have

clothes and toys they’re outgrowing by the second, so a neat pile of sellable items soon accumulated. Then, my gaze landed on a CD player I’d owned since 1998. There it sat in the room where I ate dinner each night with my family. It had followed me through two apartments of my own, the first house I bought with my husband, and the house where we live now with our two sons. I hadn’t planned on digging deep. But here was a symbol, prominently displayed in my home, of one of the worst days of my life. That CD player was the last gift I gave to my ex (and almost immediately took back). It was a reminder of a particularly gruesome argument preceded by a decade-long emotionally abusive relationship. Why was I hanging onto this object? It wasn’t as if I’d never asked myself before. Sure, it still worked and cost a lot when I bought it (a laughably low amount of money by today’s standards). But now, 20 years later, I was finally able to say those weren’t good enough reasons to keep it. I tracked the money I earned in that early decluttering effort. I made $159 in about two weeks— nothing to sneeze at, as they say—selling toys, kids’ clothes, and a couple of furniture items online. As for the CD player? I didn’t bother trying to sell it. (Does anyone even play CDs anymore?) I did finally get rid of it, though, donating it just in case someone can use it.

When sifting through the chaos of a cluttered closet, sometimes you run into an item that carries more emotional baggage than it’s worth. The thing works fine. And without it, I was left with no way to play my CDs. (Oh, right… I did used to actually listen to them when I had a player.) I may have to invest in a new one. But as it turns out, sometimes a 20-year-old CD player you could continue using for free just costs too much to keep. 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. JULY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 7

Start a family game night Four fun ways to launch a new tradition Family game nights can be a great way for families to disconnect from their devices and spend quality time together.

and Scrabble. Adults who had a favorite game growing can play it with their own children and see who outsmarts who.

Much in the way that family dinners can facilitate conversation and closeness, game nights can spark companionship and hours of fun. Game nights are easy to organize and are particularly handy on those nights when there’s not much to do or when the weather makes outside activities implausible.

Learn card games. From War to Spades to Gin to Uno, many card games have withstood the test of time. This is a great way to bridge gaps between grandparents and grandchildren. The older generation can teach these familiar games to children, and everyone can join in the fun.

To get started, use these game ideas as a catalyst for fun.

Strengthen drama skills. Charades is a game in which teams must act out a word or phrase based on certain categories and have others on their side guess what is being mimed. Charades often leads to lots of laughs and

Stick to the classics. Certain games remain tried and true family favorites. These include Monopoly, Trouble, Risk, Clue

2. 3.

Game nights are easy to organize and are particularly handy on those nights when there’s not much to do or when the weather makes outside activities implausible. stumped participants.

Shop for new fun. Take a family trip to a toy store or another retailer

and browse the games aisle. Let each family member pick out a game that appeals to them and then include them in your family game night rotation.

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L O O H C PRESCHOOL S E L R O P O H SC PRESCHOOL

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Learning Center

Education insight for parents

Stay sharp over

ooking for ways to incorpoEasy rate some learning into your ways to summer routine? The key is to learning fun this sumkeep your mer and make avoid summer learning loss. child’s learning Reading your kids reading regularly skills fresh thisKeep summer to keep them from falling until fall behind. Each age range has different skills to focus on. Below are some suggestions. Ages 5-6: Focus on sight words, print awareness and beginning reading. Make sight words fun by making

flash cards together. Tape them to doorways and make them the secret password to enter. Read them in the dark with a flashlight. Hide them throughout the back yard and try to have your child find them. To practice print awareness, read to your child and then let them read to you to practice their reading. You can even use the sight words to make sentences. Ages 7 and up: Focus on comprehension and vocabulary. Take your child to the library and let them choose a few books. Encourage a new topic and make it fun. They’ll be

happy to have the choice of what to read. Are you going on vacation? Maybe they’ll want to read about where you’re traveling to before you set off. Once they’ve read a new book, ask them to read some of it to you.

Patric McNama

You can also share what you’re reading. This is a great way to introduce new vocabulary words. Take a walk and talk about what you see. This is another fun and likely a new way to discuss vocabulary words.

Counting is an essential math skill for younger kids, and they can practice over the summer by counting just about everything – even bubbles! 10 PARENT PAGES — JULY 2019

er the summer by

Another idea to make reading fun for all ages is to create a cozy reading nook. Let your child chose what goes into it and make it their own space. Buy a book light so they can read in a tent or under the covers. Make your time in the car more fun and listen to audio book. Maybe they’ll even find a new author or series they like.

atrick Namara

Writing It’s hard to motivate kids to write over the summer, but it’s essential that they do. You can use some of our suggestions below to keep it fun or ask your kids what might inspire them to write. Ages 5-6: Focus on tracing, letter writing, writing sight words and writing for real purposes (stories, lists, journals). To keep children from getting bored or really feeling like this is work, mix it up. Change what the writing focus is and the task at hand. Use the sight word flash cards to make sentences. Then have your child re-write those sentences on paper. Talk about a story and then help them write it. Talk about your summer vacations and adventures and write about those. Ages 7 and up: Practice print and cursive writing. Write for real purposes (stories, lists, journals). Follow some of the same ideas for the younger children. Keep it fun and interesting. Ask them to write a short letter or story about their summer. Maybe they have a friend or family member who lives in another state or town. Become their pen pal. Make up a story and create their own short novel. Compromise with older children. Writing may not be something they want to do over the summer so let them set the schedule. Agree to a set number of writing pieces or amount of time per week and they can choose the day to work on it.

Math The same principle goes with math facts – if kids don’t practice, those memorized facts will just slip away, and so will all the other math concepts the teachers taught them this year. This can be a tough one and just as with writing, let your children take part in the planning of when and how to do math activities. Ages 4-6: Practice counting, reading and writing numbers, addition and subtraction and patterns. For younger children math can be fun. Play eye spy while out at the grocery store and try to find every number 3 in the store, or count all the numbers on the checkout aisles while waiting at the register. Let children count how many items you are buying. They can also add and subtract these items. Count flowers outside or the number of buckets at the beach. Ages 7-8: Money skills, addition and subtraction facts and place values are all important to work on over the summer. Teach your children about using a credit card and let them see the bills when you pay them. Make a cash only week where everything is purchased in cash so they can learn the values of different currency. Let children plan one of the shopping trips to understand budgeting. Use your surroundings where ever you go to make a game. You may also want to incorporate some work sheets or an online learning tool. Ages 9 and up: Should keep up with mental math, critical thinking, multiplication and division facts. The key again is to keep things fun. You could find a word problem of the day and once they’ve answered it they get a special reward. Talk about player’s stats while watching baseball or soccer. Play games that incorporate numbers and

If you’re taking a vacation this summer, encourage your child to read about the destination or listen to an audiobook as a family while you travel. math like UNO and Monopoly. Plan a project around the house that requires math. Build a bird house, plan to redesign a room, or plan the family vacation and learn about mileage and budgeting. Also look into different online learning tools and apps. Remember to give your kids choices whenever possible – it will make them more motivated if they have a say in their own learning. Patrick McNamara is the Executive Director of Sylvan Learning of Albany and Clifton Park, which provides tutoring services and academic coaching (www.SylvanLearning.com). JULY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 11

n u F s d i K e g Pa

FIREWORKS WORD FIND

Find the hidden words in the puzzle.

BRIGHT CELEBRATE CROWD

EVENING EXPLODE FESTIVAL

HOLIDAY LIGHT LOUD

Coloring Fun

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NOISY SKY SPARKLE

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Calendar of events

family fun for July

July

7 Sunday

Pick of the month

Free Film: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World

2 Tuesday

When Hiccup discovers his beloved dragon Toothless isn’t the only Night Fury, he must locate a top secret dragon Utopia called The Hidden World before a tyrant named Grimmel finds it, 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. PG, 104 minutes. Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 346-6204 or visit www.proctors.org.

Parachute Play Join library staff for songs and games with a parachute, 9:30 a.m. For children ages 3-4 accompanied by an adult. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

8 Monday

3 Wednesday Space Lab: Moon Sand

Kids Day at The Plaza

Create and explore in the maker lab, 2 p.m. For ages 5-12. Registration required. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 4621193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

July

Fourth of July Food Festivities Make red, white, and blue no-bake desserts to celebrate July 4, 2 p.m. For ages 9-14. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

4 Thursday Independence Day!

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

Starlab at Bethlehem Town Hall

Presented by MVP Healthcare. Balloons, face painting, bounce rides, magic shows, a Touch-aTruck display, the Two by Two Zoo, and more. On the main stage, join Jay, Kumi and Crick of the Beat Bugs for a fun singalong featuring songs made famous by The Beatles, noon-5 p.m. Free. Empire State Plaza, Albany. For more information, visit empirestateplaza.ny.gov/kids-day.

Summer Cinema Bring a blanket or pillow; we’ll supply the popcorn as you watch a feature length film, 2:30 p.m. Visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org for a list of titles. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Family Film: Planet 51 An alien civilization is invaded by astronaut Chuck Baker, who believes that the planet was uninhabited, and now he must get back to his ship before it goes

into orbit without him (PG, 91 minutes), 2 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Stargaze with us inside a portable planetarium at Town Hall with a presentation by a Dudley Observatory astronomer. Different programs throughout the day for different age groups: As the Earth Spins, 1 p.m., for grades K-2; Seasonal Stargazers, 2 p.m., for grades K-5; Native American Constellations, 3 p.m., for grades 3-5; Star Clock, 4 p.m., for grades 3-8; and Wonders of the Cosmos, 5:15 p.m., for adults and teens 14 and older. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Joyce Perry of Whispering Willow Wildcare will bring falcons and other 6 Saturday rescued birds of prey to teach us about wild animal rescue. Presentation includes Moon Phases live animals, 2 p.m. Registration required. Learn about the phases of the moon, 1 Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western p.m. Ages 4-12. Rensselaer Public Library, Ave., Guilderland. For more information, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandAmtrak parking lot). For more information, library.org. call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

hvcc.edu/kidscamps

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• Athletics • Circus Theatricks • Cooking • Forensics • Legos

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2019

KIDSON CAMPUS

S U M M E R

Falcon Program

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

P R O G R A M S

Calendar of events

Game Day: Field Day Edition Meet in the Library’s back yard for some outdoor activities including chalk drawing, hula hoops, jump rope and hopscotch, 1 p.m. For ages 3-11. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

9 Tuesday Life-Size Solar System Exhibit Spiral into the solar system on a glowin-the-dark path as you encounter planets, moons, asteroids, constellations and comets, 4-6 p.m. For all ages. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

My Mother the Astronaut Traveling Lantern Theatre Company will present this experience for children and families, 6:30 p.m. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791

10 Wednesday Space Lab: Rockets Create and explore in the maker lab, 2 p.m. For ages 5-12. Registration required. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Starry Slime Get starry, slimy, gooey, and science-y with this fun program, 2 p.m. For grades 1-5. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Solar Science with CMOST Conduct hands-on experiments with experts from the Children’s Museum of Science and Technology, covering how sunlight helps plants grow, warms our earth and generates power, 2 p.m. Grades 1-3. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

11 Thursday Toddler Art Lab Toddlers aged 18-36 months are invited

to explore materials and techniques in this hands-on session, 3 p.m. Please dress for a mess. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Dinoman: Solar System Family Program Investigate the planets and gravity in this hilarious, interactive show, 10:30 a.m. Drop in family program for children ages 4 and up. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

12 Friday World Language Story Time: Spanish This international story time will include stories and songs in Spanish and English, plus a craft, 9:10 a.m. No previous exposure to other languages needed. For ages 3 and up with an adult; no registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

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

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

518.377.2015

920 Albany St. • Schenectady

Offering Birthday Party Packages!

www.cmssny.org (518) 584-5540 109582_4

Adirondack Greek Festival Also Saturday. Authentic Greek food, pastries, music, folk dancers, gift shop, church tours, noon-8 p.m. Free parking and admission. St. George Orthodox Church, 55 Main St., South Glens Falls. For more information visit www.sgforthodoxchurch.org or call (518) 792-2359.

13 Saturday Daniel Tiger’s Picnic Adventure Barbara Lukas from WMHT will present an early literacy program based on beloved PBS character Daniel Tiger, 10:30 a.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

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8 Monday (cont.)

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family fun for July

JULY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 15

Capital District

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Calendar of events 13 Saturday (cont.) Egg Drop Challenge Can you save the egg? Join this challenge to create an egg-protector with scientist George Steele, 1 p.m. Ages 10-18. Please sign up. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

The Resource for Parents

Upcoming Monthly Themes & Deadlines

14 Sunday Library Mini-Golf For one afternoon, the library will transform into an 18-hole miniature golf course where golfers of all ages, from pros to duffers, can enjoy this favorite family pastime inside the library’s delightfully climate-controlled environs, 1-5 p.m. Sponsored by the Friends of Bethlehem Public Library. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

August

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

Free Film: Trolls A smart comedy about the search for happiness, and just how far some will go to get it, 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. PG, 92 minutes. Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 346-6204 or visit www.proctors.org.

September

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

15 Monday Book Character Themes: Pinkalicious and Peteriffic

October

A fun-filled afternoon of shared reading and hands-on activities celebrating some of our favorite book characters. 2 p.m. For students in grades K-2; please register at the Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www. voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Fun Fall Activities Halloween Deadline: September 3rd

November

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

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

16 Tuesday

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call

Denice Mau at 439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com 16 PARENT PAGES — JULY 2019

Book Party with Local Author Willie Deane 109587_4

Meet Schenectady-based kids’ author, Willie Deane, who will describe what

family fun for July

it’s like to be a real published author and answer questions, then we’ll share a yummy snack based on the book, 2:30 p.m. Grades 3-5. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Teddy Bear Picnic Bring your favorite stuffed furry friend to share in the fun of bear stories, bear games, bear music, favorite bear foods, as well as making a bear craft to take home, 10:30 a.m. For families with children ages 2 and up. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

17 Wednesday Book Character Themes: Fly Guy A fun-filled afternoon of shared reading and hands-on activities celebrating some of our favorite book characters. 2 p.m. For students in grades K-2; please register at the Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www. voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Space Lab: Alien Autopsy Create and explore in the maker lab, 2 p.m. For ages 5-12. Registration required. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Mission to Mars Obstacle Course Complete a series of challenges in our space-themed obstacle course for some out-of-this-world fun, 3 p.m. Grades 3-5. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Elementary Engineers: Moon Lander Design a device that will keep astronauts safe as they touch down on the moon using cardboard, paper, index cards, bubble wrap, toothpicks, tape, straws and rubber bands, 2 p.m. For ages 6-10. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

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family fun for July

Space Phenomena Mad Science will lead a handson experiments exploring the many phenomenal events that take place in our night sky, including observing how meteors fall through the atmosphere, 2:30 p.m. Grades 3-5. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

First Chapters Meet some new-to-you chapter books! First impressions count, so read the first chapter and check it out or pass it on, 2 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

19 Friday Summer Cinema Bring a blanket or pillow; we’ll supply the popcorn as you watch a feature length film, 2:30 p.m. Visit www.bethlehemp-

ubliclibrary.org for a list of titles. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Book Character Themes: Elephant and Piggie A fun-filled afternoon of shared reading and hands-on activities celebrating some of our favorite book characters. 2 p.m. For students in grades K-2; please register at the Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www. voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

20 Saturday Life Size Solar System Spiral into the solar system on a glow-inthe-dark path, past scalar size planets with their moons and read about how the planets were discovered and the elements that they are made of, 10 a.m. For grades 1 and up with families. Please register at the Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary. org or call (518) 765-2791.

Mettawee River Theater Company: The Ringdove Original theater production that incorporate masks, giant figures, puppets, and other visual elements with live music, movement, and text based on a collection of allegorical tales from ancient India, 8 p.m. Cost is $5; free for children under 12. Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance. Call (518) 875-6935 for more information.

Great Space Race Play the great space race game all over the room to see who gets to the moon first, 1 p.m. Ages 5-12. Please sign up. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

21 Sunday Free Film: Shrek A mean lord exiles fairytale creatures to the swamp of a grumpy ogre, who makes a deal to rescue a princess for the lord in order to get his beloved swamp back,

10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. PG, 90 minutes. Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 346-6204 or visit www.proctors.org.

22 Monday Iroquois Storytelling Enjoy this family-friendly storytelling event with Brenda LaForme from the Onondaga Beaver Clan, who is cultural interpreter at the Iroquois Indian Museum in Howes Cave, 6:30 p.m. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Celebrate National Ice Cream Day and Game Day Stop in for ice cream (while supplies last), and after you finish your treat play board games, card games and building games, 1 p.m. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

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18 Thursday

Calendar of events

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JULY 2019 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 17

Calendar of events 22 Monday (cont.) CaldeNotts: Picture Books with Pizzazz Which picture books didn’t win a Caldecott Medal this year but are wonderful in every way? Enjoy reading selected books and doing related activities, 10 a.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

23 Tuesday KBA: Kids Builder Association Use your imagination to build with Legos, Snap Circuits, K’Nex, blocks and more, 2:30 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

family fun for July

lot). For more information, call (518) 4621193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Planetarium Adventures Utilizing the StarLab Portable Planetarium System, children ages 3-4, accompanied by an adult, are invited to experience the wonders of a night sky right here in our library, 1 p.m. Registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Alien Slime and Space Rocks Make your own Alien Slime, Moon Sand, and Space Rocks, 2:30 p.m. Dress for a mess. Grades 3-5. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

25 Thursday

24 Wednesday STEAM Stations Students in grades 2-6 are invited to explore, create, and have fun with hands-on STEAM stations, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.. Stations will include Ozobots, Code and Go Robot Mice, Create-a-Chain Reaction, Strawbees, Keva Planks, and slime making. Please register at the Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Space Lab: Galaxy Paint

Jedi Academy Learn the ways of the Jedi with Panniken Moonjumper, a true master of intergalactic fun and adventure, at this comedy variety show, 6:30 p.m. Grades K-5. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

26 Friday Concert with Jay Mankita

Jay Mankita will present a fun-filled Create and explore in the maker lab, 2 family concert, 6:30 p.m. Jay’s songs p.m. For ages 5-12. Registration required. are thoughtful, wonderfully crazy and Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., engaging. For all ages. No registration Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking required. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Submit an event

• 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. 18 PARENT PAGES — JULY 2019

Family Film: Ralph Breaks the Internet Light refreshments will be served, 2 p.m. (PG, 112 minutes) For ages 3 and up. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary. org.

27 Saturday First Chapters Meet some new-to-you chapter books! First impressions count, so read the first chapter and check it out or pass it on, 2 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Reptile Show Meet live reptiles and learn about them, 1 p.m. Ages 5-18. Please sign up. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Family Jam with the Hilltown Ramblers Enjoy the Hilltown Ramblers’“northern blend” of folksy bluegrass tunes, traditional songs, original compositions and singalongs, 2 p.m. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

28 Sunday Free Film: Sing Faced with the loss of the thing he loves most in the world, Buster Moon hopes to restore his fading theater to its former glory by producing the world’s greatest singing competition, 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. PG, 108 minutes. Proctors, 432 State St., Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 346-6204 or visit www.proctors.org.

29 Monday

Out of This World Art with the Tang Explore art works by Alma Thomas and Carrie Moyer and create your own textural works inspired by their art and this year’s theme, A Universe of Stories, 2 p.m. Please register at the Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Outer Space Magic Learn all about space through Amazing Magic Joe’s funny and amazing tricks, 11 a.m. For children ages 4 and up. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Reader Read-In: A Universe of Stories Practice reading with a teen volunteer or read quietly alone or as a family, 10 a.m. Refreshments available. For grades 1-5. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

30 Tuesday Sesame Street Celebration Celebrate Sesame Street’s 50th birthday with stories and activities about favorite characters, 10 a.m. For ages 3-6 with 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.

31 Wednesday Space Lab: Spaceship! Create and explore in the maker lab, 2 p.m. For ages 5-12. Registration required. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Red’s Planet Book Party

Breakout Room: Galactic Space Race

Stop by the library to pick up a free copy of this graphic novel to keep. Read the book, then join us at the party for activities and space food, 2:30 p.m. Grades 3-5. Registration required. Guilderland Public Library, 2228 Western Ave., Guilderland. For more information, call (518) 456-2400 or visit guilderlandlibrary.org.

Like an Escape Room, use your puzzlesolving skills to unlock the box before time is up, 10 a.m. For ages 7-11. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

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 | 109592_4

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20 PARENT PAGES — JULY 2019