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Grandmoms Saved the Species • Discover Ethnic Festivals Montessori for the Littlest Learners •
How NOT to Help a Stutterer
Find A Camp They’ll Adore All-Girl and All-Boy Camps 2020 Camp Directory
DELAWARE DANCE COMPANY A non-profit organization committed to bringing high quality dance training and performances to the community
SuMMER DANCE CAMPS
MuSiCAL ThEATRE
Ballet camp ages 4 to 10
After a successful debut year, DDC is pleased once again to offer its Summer Musical Theatre Program. Intended to acquaint participants with the required versatility and expressiveness needed for the professional stage, this program is for participants ages 6 to 12 with or without dance experience, and for intermediate to advanced dancers ages 12 to 18 years. The program culminates with a special stage revue performance. July 20-31, 2020.
Jazz/Tap camp ages 4 to 10 Modern/Contemporary ages 6 to 10 Camp hours are 10 am to 4 pm with drop-off beginning at 8:30 am and pick-up until 5:30 pm. June 22-26, July 6-10, and July 13-17
SuMMER WORkShOPS First Focus Dance Workshops For dancers 10 years and older with at least one year of dedicated pre-professional ballet training. (DDC 1X/2/2X) Intensive Dance Workshops For dancers 12 years and older with at least three years of dedicated pre-professional training. (DDC 3 and up) Intermediate & Advanced levels offered. June 22-26, July 6-10, and July 13-17
Visit www.delawaredancecompany.org for more info. 168 S. Main St., Suite 101 Newark, DE 19711 302-738-2023 This program is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on www.DelawareScene.com
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STEM • SPECIALTY CAMPS • FIELD TRIPS • SWIM • SPORTS ARTS & CRAFTS • ADVENTURE TEEN LEADERSHIP • MUSIC • LITERACY • SCIENCE • NATURE • TEAM BUILDING • FUN!
REGISTER TODAY! WWW.YSUMMERCAMP.ORG Financial assistance is available.
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mk Inside
February 2020 Vol. 31, No. 2
is Happy, Healthy Children!
Camp 2020 9 Find a Camp to Love 10 All-boy and All-girl Camps 12 Camp Directory In This Issue 4 Grandmoms Saved the World 6 First Dentist Visit 7 Good Intentions and Cavities 8 Montessori for the Very Young 14 Win It!
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Parenting
How Grandmothers Saved the World Grandmom should be more than a holiday hug and a monthly Facetime. Professor Kathleen Stassen Berger believes the matriarchs are responsible for the survival of our species and have an important role to play today, although they often find themselves on the sidelines of the modern family. In Grandmothering: Building Strong Ties With Every Generation Berger shows how to tap the wisdom of grandparents without usurping mom and dad. We asked her to explain some of her ideas.
Where is the line between being helpful and meddling?
How did grandmothers save the species?
Should grandmothers be expected to babysit?
In the past, species, including earlier hominids, became extinct because reproduction failed, climate change destroyed food, and natural disasters devastated communities. When homo sapiens started living long enough to be grandparents, the population increased. Grandmothers delivered babies, found food for nursing mothers and toddlers, knew what herbs would help the sick, kept older children from wandering into jungles, off cliffs or far from home.
Why do you say grandmothers are being given short shrift these days? Our national emphasis on the nuclear family has led to ignoring the grandparents. Families function best when parents are not the only, exclusive caregivers, yet the current emphasis on intensive parenting undercuts grandmother help.
What’s the best way for a parent to get grandparents more involved?
Give clear requests and guidelines. Grandparents sometime overstep, sometimes stay distant, without knowing what parents really want.
What’s the best way for grandparents to be more involved?
Support the parents and follow their guidelines. Don’t grab all the joy of caregiving — holding the infant, giving presents to the older children. Figure out what is really helpful — perhaps buying groceries, folding laundry, picking children up from school.
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It depends on the family relationships, but the line is not where most grandparents imagine. Best to stay quiet or ask “What do you think?” Never give a comment that might be taken as criticism. I know a grandmother who, when she heard her granddaughter in the background during a phone call, asked “Aren’t the children asleep yet.” The mother slammed down the phone.
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Ideally, every grandmother babysits sometimes and is not the full-time caregiver. Specifics depend on what the parents need. Expectations need to be discussed, because assumptions are often wildly off.
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Infant – Talk, sing, and laugh with the baby. Spend hours at it, often. Toddler – Help them explore safely, by keeping hazards away. Then take them to a park where they can be safe and happy. Tween – Listen to them, read with them, encourage them. Also listen to the parents. Teen – Again, listen and communicate via texts, videos, anyway that works. Be wary of giving advice or criticism, but share stories of past experiences that taught you something. Respect teen opinions about current issues, such as climate change (one grandmother quit using cellophane because of her grandson) and social prejudice (accept friends of various sexualities, ethnicities, religions etc.). Overall, every parent and grandchild benefits from support and love from someone who is able to put aside personal complaints. For many reasons, grandmothers are ideally suited for that role. Kathleen Stassen Berger is a professor of Human Development at the City University of New York, and author of Grandmothering: Building Strong Ties with Every Generation as well as two top college textbooks on the subject. Learn more at Kathleenbergerauthor.com
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Summer Camp CampSay • Aug. 3–17 Pocono Springs Camp, East Stroudsburg, PA 212-414-9696; Campsay.org Sponsored by SAY: The Stuttering Association for the Young (SAY.org), this camp is for kids age 8–18 who stutter. Support Groups
When the Words Get Stuck Don’t finish words for a child who stutters or tell him to slow down. Here’s what to do instead. By Suzanne Koup-Larsen Everyone has moments when he trips over the words or repeat things; it gives the mind time to think and reorganize what it wants to say. “Someone who stutters knows exactly what he wants to say, but it gets stuck,” says Joe Donaher, PhD, program coordinator at the Center for Childhood Communication at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Young children may stutter because they’re trying to get their ideas out so quickly, Jennifer Cristiano, owner of the South Jersey Speech Center in Williamstown, NJ. “They’re in a race to tell you everything they’re thinking,” she says. By the start of elementary school, most kids will have outgrown their stuttering. In fact, about 5 percent of preschoolers stutter, but only 1 percent continue to do so into adulthood, including sports stars like Philadelphia Eagles running back Darren Sproles and 2017 World Series MVP George Springer. “We don’t know why the other 4 percent recover,” says Hallie Mintz, MS, speech language pathologist at Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, DE. Sometimes it is tricky for a parent to tell when a child has a stutter, says Mike Bauer, former National Stuttering Association chapter leader. “These kids are very intelligent about knowing when and where to switch words.” Pay attention if your child: • Covers his mouth • Avoids talking • Gives up; says “never mind” • Says nonsensical words • Notices it himself Sometimes a child’s frustration with a stutter will show as a physical reaction, such as a grimace, says Cristiano.
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Also, keep in mind that stuttering can take three forms • Repetition: A whole word or phrase or sound is repeated several times • Prolongation: One sound is held out for a long time • Block: The person struggles to speak but no sound comes out
What not to do
If you child has a stutter, resist the temptation to finish a word or sentence for her. “Filling in the word may actually make stuttering worse,” as this tends to increase kids’ frustration, says Mintz. “These kids just need an extra minute. Just let them finish.” Likewise, don’t tell her to calm down or speak more slowly. “Telling a child to slow down is not helpful,” she says. If it’s a true stutter, slowing down won’t make a difference.” It’s also incorrect to assume that stuttering is caused by nerves. “It’s not always triggered by an emotional reaction,” says Cristiano. Kids may stutter just as much at home with their parents as they would in unfamiliar or stressful situations.
What you should do
Stuttering can make the listener feel anxious and uncertain, says Bauer, who suggests these techniques when in a conversation with someone who stutters: • Maintain eye contact • Wait patiently • Listen carefully • Wait for the speaker to finish
Therapy techniques
In therapy, fluency is not the ultimate goal, says Mintz. The perfect production of speech is not as important as partici-
Stuttering Foundation of America (Stutteringhelp.org) National Stuttering Association (Westutter.org) pating in the conversation, she explains. “Sometimes the body is going to stutter no matter what,” says Mintz “but we don’t want it to impact a willingness to speak.” There are some strategies therapists teach to reduce stuttering: • Stretchy speech: Hold out the vowel of the first word in the sentence then say the rest of the sentence normally • Light contact: Touch lip or tongue really lightly to reduce tension • Manipulate the tension: Tighten and relax muscles intentionally • Stutter on purpose: Learn to control the stutter by doing it on purpose When looking for a therapist, Donaher suggests finding one who specializes in stuttering because many speech language pathologists don’t study it in graduate school.
How parents can help
Because stuttering can be a hidden disability until the first time a new acquaintance hears it, Amy Sniras, of Glen Mills, PA, reaches out to teachers at the beginning of each school year to let them know her son, 13-year-old Jake, stutters. “This way, when he starts stuttering, there’s no reaction,” she explains. To make things easier in conversing with new people, Donaher suggests that kids compose an “elevator speech” to explain why they talk they way they do. “I stutter. Sometimes my words get stuck,” he suggests as a short and simple explanation. Sniras recommends reaching out to others who stutter. In addition to support for parents, it’s especially important for kids to meet other kids who stutter, she says. “There’s an amazing network and community out there.”
Suzanne Koup-Larsen is a contributor to MetroKids.
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Health
A First Trip to the Dentist Your child’s first dental visits can set the tone for years to come, even into adulthood. By Kimberly Blaker A negative experience at the dentist as a child can result in anxiety over dentist visits through childhood and into adulthood. Learn how to prepare for a child’s first visits.
Crucial first visit
The earlier your child begins going to the dentist, the better. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit should be by the time your child turns one or within 6 months of when the first tooth erupts. At this stage, the visit will be quick, simple and pain-free. An early positive experience will help your child develop trust in the dentist. Depending on age and dental-office policies, many dentists will ask you to remain in the lobby during your child’s checkup. Typically, this is recommended for children over the age of 3. There’s good reason for this. Separating a child from parents usually results in fuller cooperation from children. This can go a long way toward a more positive experience. When your child is placed in the care of the dental staff, they’ll try to make his first experience fun and informative. The dentist will explain and demonstrate routine procedures to your child and then perform those procedures. He will quickly learn the dentist is someone to trust. Down the road, if your child needs non-routine dental work, the dentist will work with him in a similar fashion.
Handle anxiety
For a variety of reasons, some children become fearful or uncooperative during a visit to the dentist. Tell your child about your own positive dental experiences. Don’t discuss non-routine procedures such as fillings. Explain to her the basic procedures she will undergo. For example, the dentist will count your child’s teeth and look at them with a tiny mirror. Avoid frightening terminology. If you have concern over a cavity, don’t give her too much information. This can result in undo anxiety. But don’t try to soothe your child by lying about the procedure or possible pain. Offer coping strategies instead. Have him practice taking long deep breaths. If you know you’ll be with your child during the procedure (speak to your dentist first to confirm this), you can offer your hand to squeeze. Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer.
Correction from January’s issue
The enrollment figures provided by the National Catholic Educational Association for a Catholic Schools Week graphic last month were inaccurate. The 2018-2019 enrollment in diocesan schools was: Philadelphia – 62,656 • Camden, NJ – 11,659 Trenton, NJ – 15,157 • Wilmington, DE – 9,685
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Sponsored
Good Intentions Don’t Prevent Cavities Parents choose juice boxes, gummy vitamins and bottled water with their kids’ health in mind, but it could lead to more cavities, warns Dr. Rachel A. Maher.
By Jennifer Lesser Though parents may be more informed than ever about dental care, even scheduling that initial dentist visit in the first year, some pediatric dentists report an increase in cavities and other issues in their young patients. That’s in part because parents may not realize that some of their kids’ seemingly healthy drinks, like all-natural fruit juices, and snacks, like fruit strips, can cause damage to their teeth. Dr. Rachel A. Maher, of Dentistry for Children in Wilmington, DE, says more children of all ages are coming to her practice with cavities. Not surprisingly, one of the biggest cavity-causing culprits can be found in their diet. “Too much sugar in the diet is probably still the main cause of cavities,” she explains. Even if you don’t allow your child to eat candy or other obvious sources of sugar, many parents don’t think twice about handing over a juice box, gummy vitamin, or even a glass of milk. “There are a lot of foods with obvious sugars that many parents avoid, but they’re not always realizing how much sugar can be found in juices — and it’s even added to some brands of milk to sweeten the taste,” she explains. Meanwhile, gummy vitamins may have the nutrients your kids need, but they do contain sugar and have a sticky texture that can help lead to dental decay.
Bottled Water Lacks Flouride
Sugar isn’t the only culprit. Soda and sports drinks are also very acidic and can erode your child’s teeth. Surprisingly, Dr. Maher says, even bottled water is a potential cause of dental decay because many brands are stripped of chemicals, one of which is fluoride. The fluoride that’s found
FEBRUARY 2020
in most public water supplies helps make the teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth and it can help prevent and even reverse early signs of decay. “The fact that many families don’t trust the tap water that comes out of their faucet means that many kids aren’t getting that additional fluoride to help their teeth grow strong and resist bacteria,” she explains. Some parents may be hesitant about fluoride, even via toothpaste, due to concern over potential health issues from over-exposure to it. But Dr. Maher tells parents not to be afraid of fluoride; just follow the American Academy of Pediatric’s guidelines for how much toothpaste to use, such as a pea-sized amount for children ages three to six.
Contagious Cavities
Any mom who has ever “cleaned” her baby’s pacifier in her mouth or shared a drink or utensils with a toddler probably doesn’t know that cavity-causing bacteria can be passed from mom and dad to their child. “There are newer studies showing that the transmission of cavity-causing bacteria can even be made from child to child, so if your little one is playing with a toy at daycare and puts it in his mouth, then the next child who plays with it puts it in her mouth, that harmful bacteria has just passed from one mouth to another,” Dr. Maher says.
Parents’ Role
Lastly, parenting styles have changed. Dr. Maher notes that many parents seem reluctant to force their child to brush or floss, worried that doing so could make dental care a negative experience for their
kids. Other parents simply aren’t as diligent with dental hygiene for their third or fourth child as they were with their first. “I do see families who are only brushing their child’s teeth once a day and aren’t flossing. But if there’s bacteria living in their mouth and the mouth environment is acidic — from drinking a glass of orange juice or soda — then that bacteria thrives, and that’s when cavities happen.” So what should parents do? A toothbrush and floss are still your best weapons against cavities. Even when a child is too young to brush, bacteria can form as soon as those first teeth begin to erupt, so wipe your baby’s mouth down with a washcloth each day to fight against future cavities. Parents can also allow their children to have sugar-free gum and candy that contains the natural sugar substitute Xylitol, which is believed to help neutralize bacteria in the mouth and even help prevent cavities.
Schedule That First Visit
An early dentist visit is important for more than health reasons; it can also help a child become accustomed to the dental office as well as educate and provide home care instructions for parents. “There’s still a discrepancy between the age when some pediatricians are referring kids to the dentist and when pediatric dentists believe they should make their first visit,” Dr. Maher says. “We ideally like to see them around the first birthday.” There are ways to help that first visit go smoothly. “From books to YouTube videos, to taking a tour of your dentist’s office before you go, there are lots of ways to help teach your child about dental care and prepare for that first visit,” she says, “and help set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.”
For more information about Dr. Maher visit Dentistryforchildrende.com MetroKids.com 7
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Education
Montessori for the Very Young Montessori methods are used with toddlers and, in some local schools, even with babies. By Jennifer Lesser Can you teach the Montessori way to a toddler? Or a baby? Local Montessori instructors say yes. “Brain development happens rapidly before six years old, when the child’s brain is in its most plastic state,” says Unique Saunders, assistant head of school at Guidepost Montessori School at Laurel Oak in Voorhees Township, NJ. “It’s during this time when children develop foundational character traits that are much more difficult to change later on, like creativity, logical thinking, persistence, concentration, a growth mindset, and leadership ability.” Proponents of the Montessori approach also tout the life skills it teaches even the littlest learners. “Montessori programs are all about fostering independence — so even our youngest toddlers learn how to pour themselves a glass of water or put on their own coat,” explains Kaitlin Briggs, lead Montessori directress at Neshaminy Montessori School in Trevose, PA. The Montessori component comes into play as they’re doing things for themselves because teachers will never correct them. “If a child has put his shoes on the wrong feet, a teacher might ask how his feet feel but won’t correct the mistake — that way, the child has the responsibility to determine what he did wrong and how to solve the problem,” Briggs says. Guidepost Montessori serves students from birth to 12 years. For toddlers, the program fosters their natural inclination to do things independently. “Students practice multi-step activities that build executive functioning skills as they problem solve, keep future steps in mind, and work towards a goal,” says Saunders.
Mixed-age rooms, individual plans Montessori classrooms are mixed-age, but children are allowed to complete tasks with uninterrupted concentration. For toddlers, in particular, the ability to focus and concentrate on a given task through completion — as well as retrieve and return their own
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learning materials — is a primary focus of a Montessori-based program. “Our teachers write individual lesson plans for kids, so there’s not one math lesson per day for a classroom of 17 students. There are 17 math lessons for 17 students,” says Annie Barrera, director of early childhood education at Holy Child Academy in Drexel Hill, PA. “This allows us to meet students where they are. Some of our toddlers don’t yet know letters or sounds, while others are starting to read, so these individualized lesson plans aren’t holding any child back. “At the same time they’re not pushing other children too far and frustrating them.” Holy Child is one of the growing numbers of programs that are Montessori-influenced, so the curriculum combines Montessori work with aspects of typical preschool classes. The program begins at age two. “Montessori-trained children do tend to read and write earlier than their peers, but the number one benefit of Montessori for small children is an early sense of independence,” Barrera says. “From a very young age, children learn what adults expect of them and what they can accomplish on their own.”
Montessori for babies
Wilmington Montessori School in Wilmington, DE accepts children as early as 12 months. Even though they are babies and may not even be walking, they join a classroom that includes older toddlers where there is ongoing interaction and socialization, problem solving, and child-to-child teaching. “The multi-age classroom is an important component of our program because it mimics the family unit while helping kids learn leadership skills,” says Sarah Williams, assistant head of school for Wilmington Montessori. “Three-year-olds still remember being little and learning new skills, like how to walk, so they often feel compelled to help our youngest students, while the younger children are emulating and learning from the older kids.” Other Montessori programs, such as Children’s House of Philadelphia, start at 18 months. According to Mary D’Anella, executive director, the program is designed to empower their youngest learners. “We want them to learn how to advocate for themselves, so we create a space where they’re heard and listen to what they have to say — even
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Camp
Find a Camp They’ll Love The search can be daunting. Here’s how to narrow the list to find the perfect match. By Kimberly Blaker Whether you’re looking for enrichment for your child, a way to keep the kids occupied and supervised while you work, or you need a short reprieve from parenting, there’s a summer camp that’s the right fit for your family. Before you start your search, create a list of the criteria important to you. Here are some things to consider. • What is your budget? • What is the purpose of sending your child to camp? • Do you want an overnight or day camp? • Are you looking for a short-term (week or two) or summer-long program? • Do you want a camp that’s very structured or one that provides your child with lots of freedom and choices? • What are your child’s passions, such as a particular sport, hobby or other interest? Now you can begin your search. An excellent place to start is a local parenting magazine (Like this one!). Many summer camps advertise here and online. (You can go to MetroKids.com/Camp to search our Camp Guide, which is sortable by location, type of camp, services provided, and activities offered.) The American Camp Association (ACA) accredits summer camps. So this is another excellent place to look. The ACA educates camp owners and directors in health and safety for staff and campers as well as program quality. It then accredits camps that meet the ACA’s standards. (The Camp Directory on P. 12 indicates which camps are ACA accredited.) Once you’ve selected a few camps, share the choices with your child to see what excites her. Be sure to let her know upfront that you still need to thoroughly investigate the camps before making a final decision. When you and your child have narrowed the list to a manageable number, investigate the camps further. There are several things to consider.
What is the daily schedule for campers?
Ask for a daily itinerary so you know your child will be getting everything you anticipate from the program.
What are the rules?
Each camp has its own set of rules. Find out whether your child is allowed to call you. If it’s a summer-long residential camp, can parents come and visit? Can kids bring along a cell phone or electronics? Also, how much money can they bring, and how is it managed?
Don’t sweat it
Though there are many great camps, no camp is likely to offer everything precisely the way you want it. Just choose the one that best fits your child and satisfies your most important criteria. Your child will have many summers to try new camp experiences.
Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer.
Registering NOW! • Academic programs starting at 15 months • FT/PT (2,3,4 and 5 day programs)
What are the staff ’s qualifications?
Many summer camps use teens to staff the camps. Teens make excellent mentors and can bring liveliness to summer-camp programs. However, the programs themselves should be developed by professionals and have professional oversight to ensure kids are getting the most from their camp experience.
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Summer Camp
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• Come see what makes a Montessori Education so special!
How does the camp ensure your child’s safety?
Find out what kind of safety training the camp provides its staffers. Also, is there someone on hand at all times who knows CPR? What are the camp’s procedures if your child becomes ill, has an accident, or an emergency? Celebrating STARS lvl 5 as of January 2016
FEBRUARY 2020
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Camp
All-boy and All-girl Camps Some kids thrive at camps where the social pressure to impress the opposite sex is not an issue. By Rose Destra Summer camp can be a place where memories are made and lasting friendships begin. While sleepaway and day camps are typically coed, some parents and their children prefer single-sex camps in part for their opportunity for empowerment.
Less social pressure
All-boy or all-girl camps are usually smaller, so interactions are more intimate and, because there are no social pressures from the opposite sex, campers feel more confident in their environment. “I think the boys and girls like to be surrounded by whatever they’re classifying as,” says Alexis Featherman, program manager at Camp Kelly in Tunkhannock, PA. There’s less pressure to act cool or look good and kids can act more authen-
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tically and explore outside their comfort zones. “For parents of girls, they like the idea of their daughters being at a camp where they are not being judged by their appearance and can feel free to interact with other girls and not have the social pressures that boys would add to the mix,” says Renee Flax, director of camper placement for the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. “For boys, it is very much the same philosophy. Parents want their sons to have strong role models from the counselors at camp.” At single-sex camps, most counselors are exclusively male or female for the comfort of campers. Without social anxieties there is more opportunity for growth. “Having an intentional population where kids have the opportunity to engage with their peers who understand them is huge,” says Brian Lux, director of Camp Sequoia in Pennsburg, PA. His camp was created 10 years ago for non-neurotypical boys to improve skills and encourage friendships. “A lot of these kids, they just need the time and space to be able to grow, and if you’re in a situation with too many moving pieces, it’s more difficult to experience the same level of success,” he says. Once camp is over, these lessons are taken back into a coed environment.
Gender-inclusive camps
Some single-sex camps also provide onsite therapists and gender-neutral bunks for nonconforming campers. “At our TriState Camp Conference we offer several sessions about how to be inclusive,” says Flax. “In the past several years we see more and more camps offering specific programming that will make all campers feel comfortable and accepted.” If your child is transgender or gender nonconforming, ask camps what kind of training they give their staff and the resources available on site. Find a camp that provides a safe environment where your child can grow, have fun and have something exciting to look forward to each year.
How to decide
Parents should understand their child’s interests and comfort level before they decide on a single-sex or coed camp. “If you can come up with a list of five musthaves and then a secondary wish list, it will help you to understand which camps will actually fulfill your needs,” says Flax. “It is difficult to find one type of camp that will suit all of your requirements, but you can get very close if you research it well.” Rose Destra is a freelance writer from PA.
FEBRUARY 2020
Wilmington Friends School Summer Camps
DAY CAMP
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June 15 through August 28
FUN FUN
ALLSUMMER SUMMERLONG! LONG! ALL
Lower School Camp, lscamp@wilmingtonfriends.org For children in preschool - 5th grade. Weekly themes, active games, and art; ice skating, swimming, and bowling; optional specialty camps including soccer, tennis, art, STEM Design, cooking, and adventure camps. Middle School Camp, mscamp@wilmingtonfriends.org For children entering 5th - 9th grade. Choose Base Camp or Theme Camps: art, adventure, sports, STEM, cooking, Hogwarts, App Building and Graphic Design.
towerhill.org/summer 2813 WEST 17TH STREET, WILMINGTON, DE 19806
FEBRUARY 2020
Quaker matters. Come see why. Visit us at wilmingtonfriends.org or call 302-576-2998. MetroKids.com 11
Thrilling adventures are in store for children at summer camps throughout the Delaware Valley in 2020! This camp directory includes an ample array of choices for all abilities, ages and interests. Navigate the directory by focusing on your preferences for: • Geographic area: Camps are grouped by county & outlying areas. • Category: Each description is prefaced by camp type — day, program, residential, special needs or travel. • Special features: See the key below. Find a searchable version at MetroKids.com/camps. Contact camps to express interest and mention you saw their listing in MetroKids.
MULTIPLE LOCATIONS 76ers Camps
Multiple Locations; 610-668-7676 director@sixerscamps.com • 76erscamps.com DAY The #1 Basketball Camp in the NBA celebrates our 36th Year! Fiveto 17-year-olds learn the drills the pros use to take their game to the next level. Age- and skill-specific fundamentals and development for beginners to advanced. Meet players, coaches and other NBA stars.
Arsenal USA Premier Soccer Camps
Multiple Locations; 610-922-8255 rjacobs@esfcamps.com • Arsenalsoccercampsusa.com DAY Arsenal USA premier soccer camps, for boys and girls ranging from ages 6–14, provide players of all skill levels an opportunity to improve their game and be immersed in “The Arsenal Way” philosophy that has helped develop some of the world’s best players.
Paris Saint-Germain Academy Soccer Camps USA
Multiple Locations; 610-922-8255 rjacobs@esfcamps.com • Psgacademysoccercampsusa.com DAY The Paris Saint-Germain Academy USA soccer camps, for boys and girls ranging from ages 6-14, provides players of all skill levels an opportunity to improve their game and be immersed in the same philosophy as the professional academies in Paris. Skill development, team play and team building are facilitated by European coaches.
Phillies Baseball Academy
Multiple Locations; 610-520-3400 campmail@philliescamps.com • Philliesacademy.com DAY Phillies Baseball Academy, the premier baseball camp experience for boys and girls, ages 6–14, offers top-notch instruction, behind-the-scenes tour of Citizens Bank Park and the chance to meet a Phillies player and coach.
YMCA of Delaware Day Camps
4 Locations Statewide; 302-239-2334 candy@delnature.org • Delnature.org DAY Children 3–15 connect with nature through hands-on, outdoor experiences with highly qualified instructors. Children try new activities, develop creativity and enjoy hiking, kayaking, cooking, harvesting, archery, farm animal care, nature photography, fishing, overnights, travel, explorations and dip netting. Staff are certified in first aid and CPR. CIT
Multiple Locations in DE & MD 302-221-9622 • Ysummercamp.org DAY, RESIDENTIAL The YMCA has been hosting camps for 100+ years. Our camps provide youth 5–17 with a safe environment to play, learn, grow and make new friends while fostering social, cultural, physical and emotional development. Options include: arts and crafts, sports, team-building, science and nature, music, teen leadership and more. Staff have background checks and first aid and CPR certification. ACA
Delaware State Parks Summer Day Camps
DELAWARE
Delaware Nature Society Summer Camps
Multiple Locations Rachel.rohm@delaware.gov • Destateparks.com/summercamps DAY Delaware State Parks’ camps are an opportunity for adventure, where your child can learn to rock climb, gain basic survival skills, explore history, practice being a naturalist, and more! Visit our website for a full camp list and registration information. CIT SN
Kidz, Ink Camp Wow!
2020 Delaware Aerospace Academy
PO Box 125, Bear; 302-834-1978 dasef.outpost@verizon.net • DASEF.org DAY, PROGRAM, RESIDENTIAL Hands-on training in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), Grades 1–10. Day Academies: Full-day session offered at the Environmental Outpost in Smyrna, 585 Big Oak Rd.,19977. Destination Discovery (ocean creatures and dinosaurs): June 15–19. Four different sessions offered the same week at the University of Delaware in Newark: Destination Sky and Beyond, Destination Space, Destination Flight and Destination Orbit, June 22–26. Residential Academies: Two different sessions offered the same week at the University of Delaware in Newark: Destination Moon and Destination Mars, July 5–10
Locations in Bear, Dover, Smyrna and Milford (Opening Soon), DE kidzenrollment@kidzink.net • KidzEarlyLearning.com DAY Our summer camp program is packed with many fun activities that include weekly field trips, weekly cooking activities, swimming, music and sports, CSI Thursdays and much more. 6am–6:30pm. Breakfast and afternoon snack included. 1 Songsmith Dr., Bear, 302-838-1500; 1703 Porter Rd., Bear, 302-838-5400; 645 W. North St., Dover, 302-730-4034; 2020 Summer Stage Dance and Theatre Camps 616 W. Glenwood Ave., Smyrna, 302-653-4034.
at Delaware Arts Conservatory
New Castle County Summer Camps
Various locations in New Castle County, DE: Claymont, Middletown, New Castle, Newport, Newark, North Wilmington, DE; 302-395-5632 alexander.stephen@newcastlede.gov • Newcastlede.gov/camps DAY Recreation Camps: Full-day camps at five sites; Half-day camps at three sites. Fun weekly themes and field trips. Weekly swimming at full-day camps. Specialty Camps: Safety Town, full-day and half-day Sports Camps, ArtVentures, Musical Theatre, Fine Arts, Portfolio Building, Science Explorer STEM. CIT SN
723 Rue Madora, Ste. 4, Bear; 302-595-4160 info@delarts.com • DelArts.com DAY Two Summer Stock Camps in musical theatre with Candlelight Theatre in Arden, dance and acting camps in Bear, evening camps in art and music, and more! Day and evening programs for ages 5–14, beginner to advanced, including adult classes. Summer Ballet Maintenance and Dance Intensives for serious dancers. Pursue your passions at DelArts!
SN
Key: Extended hours Offers financial aid Part-day or part-week sessions Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training program SN: Some special needs may be accommodated
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Camp Directory A Tatnall Summer: Day Camps, Sports Camps, Swim Team
1501 Barley Mill Rd., Wilmington; 302-892-4347 atatnallsummer@tatnall.org • ATatnallSummer.org DAY The Tatnall School opens its 110-acre campus to the community June 22–August 21 with exciting new summer camps and classes serving children ages 3–grade 12. With half- and full-day offerings plus extended day, Tatnall provides a variety of activities, including sports, swimming, science, music, arts, computer design, and more. CIT
Brandywine Zoo Camp
1001 North Park Dr., Wilmington; 302-571-7850, ext. 209 education@brandywinezoo.org • Brandywinezoo.org DAY, PROGRAM Brandywine Zoo offers indoor/outdoor spring break and holiday camps, and full- and half-day summer camps. For ages 5–13, after-care available. Focus on fun, animals, and learning through live animal presentations, crafts, games, stories and learning projects. See Camps section on website.
Camp Arrowhead
35268 Homestead Way, Lewes wlafontaine@camparrowhead.net • Camparrowhead.net DAY, RESIDENTIAL Located on Rehoboth Bay, Arrowhead features an amazing de-centralized program with focus on community living and great fun! We feature canoeing, sailing, kayaking, archery, crafts, high ropes, climbing wall , crafts, environmental education and way more. Our food is the best! CIT
Camp Montessori at Wilmington Montessori School 1400 Harvey Rd, Wilmington; 302-475-0555 Wmsde.org/programs/camp DAY We believe in the magic of childhood and the joy of learning and playing together. Core Camp (ages 1-14) features STEAM activities, cooking, art, sports and games, teambuilding, cultural exploration and environmental science. Kindergarten and older groups swim three times a week. Elementary/middle school campers participate in weekly electives and specialty programs including archery, coding, tutoring and counselor-in-training. Camp Montessori is located on Wilmington Montessori School’s beautiful 25-acre campus in North Wilmington. One-week sessions. CIT CCArts Fine & Performing Arts Camp
410 Upper Snuff Mill Row, Yorklyn; 302-239-2434 jhartz@ccarts.org • Ccarts.org DAY Come gather, connect, and create this summer at CCArts! Half- or full-day camps with before and after care offer flexibility for busy summer schedules. Professional teaching artists offer painting, drawing, ceramics, fibers, photography, printmaking, mixed media, theater and music.
Centreville Layton School Summer Program
6201 Kennett Pk., Centreville; 302-571-0230 djarrell@centrevillelayton.org • Centrevillelayton.org DAY Centreville Layton School offers a summer program to reinforce academic skills and organizational strategies. Additionally, our afternoon program, offered to ages 3–13, provides a nurturing environment where children can focus on building social skills and having fun. Our program is offered to students ages 3–18. Camp runs from June 22–July 24. SN
Delaware Dance Co. Summer Dance & Theatre Camp
168 S. Main St., Madeline Crossing, Suite 101, Newark 302-738-2023 • Delawaredancecompany.org DAY With over 25 years of experience, DDC dance camps please both those who love dance as well as beginners. Ballet Camp and Jazz Tap for ages 4–10, as well as Contemporary Concepts for ages 6–10. Each camp culminates in a performance at Mitchell Hall. Camps are held June 22–26, July 6–10 and July 13–17. First Focus (10 and older) and Intensive (12 and older) workshops offered June 22–26, July 6–10, and July 13–17. A musical theatre camp is held July 20–31 for ages 6–12 and ages 12–18. Early drop off and late pick-up are included!
Delaware Museum of Natural History
4840 Kennett Pike, Rte. 52, Wilmington; 302-658-9111, ext. 328 education@delmnh.org • Delmnh.org/camps DAY Children completing kindergarten through sixth grade explore science and nature in-depth and up-close. This year features new camps for each age group, with activities such as outdoor fun, gallery exploration, traveling exhibit discoveries and live-animal experiences. For grades 3–6, optional overnight. Museum Babies program for toddlers to age 3, and one week of Museum Peeps (half-day sessions) for ages 4–6.
Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay – Camp Country Center
1051 Sharpless Rd., Hockessin; 302-456-7150 camp@cbgsc.org •Gscb.org/camp DAY Do you love science and technology? GSCB STEM day camps at Country Center have something for everyone — marine biology, Minecraft, digital media, culinary science, robotics and more! Try your hand at ACA archery. Ages 6–18. No prior Girl Scout experience needed.
Hagley Summer Camp
200 Hagley Creek Rd., Wilmington jdurst@hagley.org • Hagley.org/camp DAY Hagley Museum offers three weeks of camp activities. Each week features two themes focused on history and STEM. Camps are divided into two age categories: Ages 7–10 and ages 9–12. Our camps provide fun, hands-on environments for learning while making new friends.
NEW International Ivy Summer Enrichment Program
The Independence School, 1300 Paper Mill Rd, Newark; 908-899-1338 info@iisummer.com •iisummer.com DAY, PROGRAM International Ivy strives to promote creativity and hands-on learning for students between the age of 5–15 in subjects such as robotics, video game creation, computer programming, Minecraft, virtual reality, 3D printing, science, engineering, math, business, language and ACA visual arts.
NEW Summer at Independence
The Independence School, 1300 Paper Mill Rd., Newark; 302-239-0330 swalsh@indyde.org • Summeratindependence.org DAY From our theme-based Day Camps for nine weeks of summer, to our wide range of weekly programs, there’s something for all age groups and interests. The following options are featured: Indy Exploratorium, Visual & Performing Arts, Adventure Camp, STEM, Academics and Sports
Concord Preschool and Childcare
Summer at Tower Hill
1800 Fairfax Blvd., Wilmington 302-654-9629 • Concordpreschoolandchildcare.com DAY, TRAVEL Kids ages 1–9 can join the fun all summer long! Flexible options. FT 7:15am–5:45pm, PT 9am–12noon. 2-day, 3-day and 5-day options available. Safe, fun and nurturing atmosphere where each child is encouraged to play, learn and experiment. Quality teaching and care since 1956. Call for a tour.
2813 W. 17th St., Wilmington; 302-472-7370 summer@towerhill.org • Towerhill.org/summer DAY Summer at Tower Hill offers unlimited opportunities for fun and learning for preschoolers through sixth grade, grouped by age. This year’s weekly themes include science, cooking, art, gardening and the great outdoors, plus field trips. Enrichment and sports camps also offered. Extended care available. June 10–Aug. 7.
Delaware Art Museum’s Summer Art Camp
St. David’s Episcopal Day School
2301 Kentmere Pkwy., Wilmington; 302-571-9590 artiscreating@delart.org • DelArt.org DAY Delaware Art Museum’s summer art camp provides a fun, creative experience with professional instruction. Young artists will explore drawing, painting, ceramics, and more! Ages 6–16. Full-day 9am–4pm and camper art show. New expanded sessions and age groups!
2320 Grubb Rd., Wilmington stdavidskidsde@outlook.com • Stdavidsdayschoolde.org DAY Theme-based session for children ages 3 to completed kindergarten (3’s must be toilet-trained); 2 playgrounds, A/C spaces; peanut- and tree nut-free snacks provided. Experienced adult staff (CPR/FA, background checks); AED on site; security system, and flexible scheduling for parents. Registration fee includes t-shirt and most activities.
Key: Extended hours Offers financial aid Part-day or part-week sessions Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training program SN: Some special needs may be accommodated
FEBRUARY 2020
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Camp Directory
Win It!
We
Prizes!
Presidents Day is the perfect opportunity to teach kids about national history, and Colton’s Time Machine by Rebecca Massey does just that! The first book in the series follows 10-year-old Colton as he journeys back in time to experience important moments involving the Declaration of Independence, George Washington and Christopher Columbus. ($14.99)
University of Delaware ELC Summer Camps
489 Wyoming Rd., Newark; 302-831-6205 ud-elc@udel.edu • Elc.udel.edu DAY The University of Delaware Early Learning Center provides a summer camp filled with adventures that support a child’s interests through STEAM guided activities. Sign your rising 1st–3rd grader up now! Visit our website for details.
Wilmington Ballet Summer Dance Camp
1709 Gilpin Ave., Wilmington; 302-655-1004 info@wilmingtonballet.org • Wilmingtonballet.org/summer-program DAY Wilmington Ballet offers a Princess Camp for ballerinas in training, Ballet Camp for boys and girls ages 7–10 (no dance experience required), and a pre-professional Intensive training program for boys and girls, with world-class guest teachers. Camps run July-August.
Wilmington Friends School Day Camps
101 School Rd., Wilmington; 302-576-2998 lscamp@wilmingtonfriends.org • Wilmingtonfriends.org DAY June 15–Aug. 28: Lower-school camp features weekly themes, soccer, tennis, art, STEM design, cooking and adventure camps, plus swimming, ice skating, and bowling. Middle-school camp offers Base Camp with swimming, fishing, gardening, hiking, ice skating and bowling plus sports camps and programs in art, adventure, sports, STEM, cooking and 3D printing. Online registration available — early bird discount! Check online for Open House dates.
OUTLYING AREAS Did you know March is Youth Art Month? Snag these prizes just in time! The Crayola Color Chemistry Lab* (7+; $24.99) includes the materials needed to try 16 creative Adventure Camp at Roundtop Mountain Resort experiments. And Yellow Scope’s Art and Science of Color Kit* (8+; $39.99) 925 Roundtop Rd., Lewisberry, PA; 717-432-9631 skiroundtop@skiroundtop.com uncovers the hidden colors in plants, art supplies and candles.
Roundtopmountainresort.com/camps/summer-adventure-camps
Log on to MetroKids.com/winit and enter to win your favorite prize, beginning Feb. 1. Prizes marked with an asterisk (*) must be picked up at the MetroKids office in Center City. Other prizes will be mailed by the provider to the address given on the entry form.
DAY, RESIDENTIAL Book your child’s best week of the summer at
South Central PA’s favorite ski resort where campers enjoy a multitude of adventure-based activities including zip lines, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, archery, paintball, OGO balls, high and low ropes courses, the super slide, chairlift rides and much more. All right here on our beautiful 1,200 acre mountain property. Day and residential camps available. Residential housing is in air-conditioned mountain chalets CIT
Easterseals Camp Fairlee
22242 Bay Shore Rd., Chestertown, MD; 410-778-0566 fairlee@esdel.org • Easterseals.com/de/fairlee RESIDENTIAL, TRAVEL Camp Fairlee provides a traditional summer camp experience for children (age 6+) and adults with disabilities including developmental, CP, MD, MS and orthopedic impairments. Special Autism weeks with 1:1 counseling. Wall climbing, high ropes, zip-lining, pool, canoeing, kayaking and horseback riding. Nurses on staff 24/7. All facilities are new, including our 12,000-square-foot activity center, health center, expanded dining hall, and four cabins. ACA SN
Whale Camp at the Fundy Marine Institute
Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick, Canada 888-54-WHALE • info@whalecamp.com • WhaleCamp.com RESIDENTIAL, TRAVEL No other marine science camp offers as many face-to-face encounters to closely observe and study whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and puffins in their own natural habitat. Board our research vessel for unmatched opportunities to observe marine life. Explore beaches, coastal trails and fishing villages on beautiful Grand Manan Island. Ask about our $40,000 college scholarships, STEM projects and college credits.
YMCA Camp Conrad Weiser
201 Cushion Peak Rd., Reinholds, PA 610-670-2267 • SMYMCA.org RESIDENTIAL We welcome you to our 600 mountain-top acres in Berks County, PA. While we offer a variety of session lengths, most campers opt for 2- or 4-week sessions. We are a coed program for 6- to 17-year-olds. Activities include horseback riding, swimming, boating, athletics, target sports, mountain biking, arts, nature, adventure and teen leadership. We also offer specialty theme camps, adventure trips and international trips. ACA
Key: Extended hours Offers financial aid Part-day or part-week sessions Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training progra SN: Some special needs may be accommodated
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FEBRUARY 2020
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Child Care & Early Education Directory
FY: Full Year AY: Academic Year SP: Summer Program MP: Meals Provided
BS: Before School AS: After School DA: Diapers Accepted TP: Transportation Provided
SN: Special Needs DHS*: Licensed: Dept. of Health & Human Svcs. DE*: Licensed: Dept. of Education DYF: Licensed: Dept. of Youth & Family Serv.
DE★: Delaware Stars Participant NAEYC: Accredited—National Assoc. of Education of Young Children PAIS: Accredited—PA Assoc. of Independent Schools MSCES: Accredited—Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools * Note: DHS License: requires annual on-site visits. DE License: 20% of all facilities are inspected annually. MSA: Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges
MULTIPLE SITES
NEW CASTLE COUNTY
GREAT NEW BEGINNINGS 14 St. Andrews Rd., Bear, DE 302-838-1000 210 Cleaver Farm Rd., Middletown, DE • 302-378-5555 GNBKids.com Ages: 8 wks.-School Age • Hours: 6:30am-6pm Serving children 8 weeks through 12 years old. Family owned and operated since 1999. Staff certified through Department of Education. Internet viewing available. Nutritional snack and lunch program provided daily. Proudly participating in the Delaware Stars Quality Rating System. Panic Button Security System. GREAT NEWS! Middletown location NOW OPEN. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, DYF, SN, DE, DE H, NAEYC
CACC MONTESSORI SCHOOL 1313 Little Baltimore Rd., Hockessin, DE 302-239-2917 •Caccmont.org Ages: 3 mos. to K • Hours: 7am-6pm The Montessori program at CACC is child directed with individualized instruction and a low student/teacher ratio. Our Enrichments include Chinese Instruction, Gardening, Library, Art, Gym (Zumba & Yoga), Music, and Technology. Preprimary students can also elect to participate in after school activities such as Ballet, Drama, Soccer, Science Club and Piano lessons. AY, SP, BS/AS, DA, DYF, AMS
KIDZ, INK ACADEMY OF EARLY ACADEMICS 1 Songsmith Dr., Bear, DE • 302-838-1500 1703 Porter Rd., Bear, DE • 302-838-5400 345 School Bell Rd., Bear, DE • 302-327-0686 645 W. North St., Dover, DE • 302-730-4730 616 W. Glenwood Ave., Smyrna, DE • 302-653-4034 KidzEarlyLearning.com Ages: 6 wks.-11 yrs. • Hours: 6am-6:30pm Our curriculum is designed to stimulate your child’s mind, strengthen their bodies, and nurture their hearts. National curriculum: core knowledge. Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack. Spanish degreed and experienced teachers, security cameras monitor every room. FY, SP, MP, BS, AS, TP, DE, DYF, DA, DE ★ LITTLE STARS INC. 5702 Kirkwood Hwy., Wilmington, DE 302-995-2920 947 Old Harmony Rd., Newark, DE • 302-737-9759 Littlestarsinc.com Ages: 6 wks.-12 yrs. • Hours: 6:30am-6pm Come Join the Fun here at Little Stars. Two locations serving children 6 wks. to 12 yrs. Full day. Family-owned & operated. Warm, qualified staff teaches basic education concepts. Pre-school for ages 3 & 4. First aid & CPR. Breakfast, lunch & snack. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DYF YMCA OF DELAWARE 100 W. 10th St., Ste. 1100, Wilmington, DE 302-221-9622 • Ymcade.org Ages: 6 wks.-13 yrs. At the YMCA, we believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That’s why child care and early learning programs at the Y focus on holistically nurturing child development by providing a safe and healthy place to learn fundamental skills, develop healthy, trusting relationships and build self-esteem through the Y values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. We offer a variety of programs throughout the state including Before and After School Care, Preschool and Summer camp. Bear-Glasgow, 302-836-9622 • BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Brandywine, 302-478-9622 • half-day preschool, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Middletown, 302-616-9622 • before and after care, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Central, 302-254-9622 • full-day preschool, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Sussex, 302-296-9622 • half-day preschool, extended care, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Dover, 302-346-9622 • before and after care, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Walnut St., 302-472-9622 • full-day preschool, BS, AS, SP, DE ★ Western, 302-453-0123 • full-day preschool, before and after care, BS, AS, SP, DE ★
MetroKids.com FEBRUARY 2020
CONCORD PRESCHOOL AND CHILDCARE 1800 Fairfax Blvd., Wilmington, DE 302-654-9629 • Concordpreschoolandchildcare.com Ages: 1 yr.- 9yrs. • Hours: 7:15am-5:45pm Our small class sizes enable valuable one-on-one instruction. Caring teachers and rich curriculum including Soccer Shots, Spanish, Yoga, Music and Gym. Serving ages 1 year through Kindergarten. FT 7:15am-5:45pm, PT 9:00am – 11:30am. 2, 3 and 5-day options available. Summer to age 9. Quality teaching and care since 1956. Call for a tour. FY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS*
TOWER HILL SCHOOL 2813 W. 17th Street, Wilmington, DE 19806 302-575-0550 • Towerhill.org Ages: Age 3-Grade 12 • Hours: 8am -3pm Tower Hill’s preschool provides young learners with a quality education in a warm and supportive environment. Understanding that children gain knowledge through play, nurturing teachers emphasize engaging activities that allow students to explore, experiment and discover the world around them. AY, SP, MP, BS/AS, PAIS URSULINE ACADEMY 1106 Pennsylvania Ave., Wilmington, DE 302-658-7158 • Ursuline.org Ages 3-18 • Hours: 8am-2:45pm Our Early Childhood Programs are unique from any other school by offering two paths to First Grade: Pre-Kindergarten/ Kindergarten & Montessori. Children develop social consciousness by responding to personal, community, & global needs, and by becoming true models of Serviam through Christian love. Full & Half Day/Week Options. AY, SP, BS, AS, DAIS, ADVIS, NAIS
EDU-CARE PRESCHOOL & DAYCARE 345 Polly Drummond Hill Rd., Newark, DE 302-453-7326 • Educarepreschool.com Ages: 6 wks.-12 yrs. • Hours: 6:30am-6pm Edu-Care provides both a nurturing and academic atmosphere. We offer a variety of scheduling options. Feel free to stop in at any time for a tour or contact us for more information. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, TP, DHS*, DE
WILMINGTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL 1400 Harvey Rd., Wilmington, DE 302-475-0555 • wmsde.org • dmissions@wmsde.org Ages: 12 mos.-12 yrs. • Hours: 7am-6pm Students follow their passions, discover initiative from within and take ownership of their learning; a place that embraces the power of technology for teaching, exploring, engaging and collaborating. With a diverse student body and a challenging curriculum that promotes mutual respect and a global perspective, WMS graduates are prepared to move fearlessly into the world. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DYF, NAEYC, DE H, AMS
ONE STEP AHEAD CHILD CARE AND PRESCHOOL, INC. 432 Salem Church Rd., Newark, DE 302-292-1162 Ages: 1 yr.-12 yrs. • Hours: 7am-6pm Devoted, skilled staff assist your child with age-appropriate weekly themed curriculum to enhance their self-esteem and love of learning. All staff CPR and First Aid certified. All teachers are Board of Education certified. Spacious indoor and outdoor play areas. Secured premises. All classrooms video monitored. Breakfast, lunch and snacks. Full-time and part-time options. Before- and after-school programs serving Thurgood Marshall and McVey School. Sibling discount. Summer camp with weekly field trips. FY, AY, SP, BA, AS, DA, DHS*
New Castle County Camps
ST. DAVID’S EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL 2320 Grubb Rd., Wilmington, DE 19810 302-475-3747 • Stdavidsdayschoolde.org stdavidskidsde@outlook.com Ages: 2,3, & 4 (must have reached age by August 31 if starting school in September) Hours: Preschool 9-12; Full day 7:30 – 5:45 A St. David’s Episcopal Church outreach, conveniently located in Brandywine Hundred. Develop- mental Movement class daily, developmentally appropriate curriculum. 2 playgrounds, weekly chapel services. Staff certified CPR & First Aid. Some financial aid . Preschool 9am-12pm; Full day 7:30-5:45; 2, 3 or 5 day options. POC and credit cards accepted. Parent volunteer opportunitites and financial aid available. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, TP, SN, DHS*, DYF, NAEYC, PAIS, MSCES, AMS ST. MICHAEL’S SCHOOL AND NURSERY 700 N. Walnut St., Wilmington, DE 302-656-3389 • Stmichaelsde.org Ages: 8wks-PreSchool • Hours: 7am -5:30 pm A 5-Star rated early education center with a recently expanded Infant and Toddler Program convenient to all downtown Wilmington employers. High quality, nurturing environment that prepares children to learn and succeed in school. Large facility with 16 classrooms, gross motor play rooms, dining room, library and spacious, age-appropriate outdoor play areas. Fresh, nutritious meals prepared daily. Our “whole child” approach supports children’s social-emotional, physical, language and cognitive needs. St. Michael’s values diversity, qualified faculty and family involvement. Vouchers accepted. FY, MP, DA, DHS, DE, DYF, DE ★
County Executive Matthew Meyer Department of Community Services Division of Community Resources
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Family Fun
Get hands-on at the Hagley Museum's STEMtastic Weekend, Feb. 1 & 2.
DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR Special needs event PNC Grow Up Great
8 Saturday
Valentine's event
$ = $1-$5; $$ = $6-$10; $$$ = $11-$19; $$$$ = $20 & up
1 Saturday
First Sunday for Families: Make a Difference at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford, PA. Make colorful cards for women who’ve made a difference and watch a creative-movement performance that promotes cultural understanding. FREE
Biggs Kids: Valentine’s Day Card Workshop at the Biggs Museum of American Art, Dover. FREE
Groundhog Day at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. See “Hidden Holiday,” p. 17. $$$
African American Children’s Book Fair at the Community College of Philadelphia. Meet bestselling authors and illustrators and engage in activities that promote the power of learning. FREE
Clue, On Stage at Clear Space Theatre Company, Rehoboth Beach. $$$$
Stages of Discovery: The Mixed-Up Fairy Tale
12 Wednesday
STEMtastic Weekend at the Hagley Museum and Library, Wilmington. Budding inventors enjoy coding and robotics activities. $$ Frozen Fun at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. Come in royal attire to join a snowman-making contest, meet characters and snack on treats. $$$ Tales of Slavery and Freedom Walking Tour at First State Heritage Park, Dover. See “Town & County,” p. 18. FREE
2 Sunday
Clue, On Stage at Clear Space Theatre Company, Rehoboth Beach. $$$$
Play Without Boundaries at the Please Touch Museum, Phila. Kids with autism, learning differences or sensory needs experience the venue in a subdued environment. FREE STEMtastic Weekend at the Hagley Museum and Library, Wilmington. See Feb. 1. $$ Youth Climate Action Forum at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. The event aims to connect high school and college students who are passionate about climate change and the environment, as well as share resources and upcoming events that support the cause. FREE
4 Tuesday
Black History Family Storytime at the Woodlawn Library, Wilmington. FREE
7 Friday
Clue, On Stage at Clear Space Theatre Company, Rehoboth Beach. $$$$ Girl Scout Program: For the Love of Animals
15 Saturday
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See MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information on these and other events. FEBRUARY 2020
HIDDEN HOLIDAY
Whatever the outcome of Punxatawny Phil’s shadow sighting, families can appreciate winter and welcome spring during Groundhog Day programming, Feb. 2 at the Delaware Museum of Natural History in Wilmington. You’ll learn about these furry weather forecasters and enjoy hands-on activities and crafts.
8 Saturday
Clue, On Stage at Clear Space Theatre Company, Rehoboth Beach. $$$$ Philadelphia Auto Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. Through Feb. 17, check out more than 700 vehicles and enjoy performances and giveaways. $$$
12 Wednesday
Stages of Discovery: The Mixed-Up Fairy Tale at Copeland Hall, Wilmington. See what happens when the worlds of classic tales are clashed and crisscrossed. $$
13 Thursday:
PNC Grow Up Great at the Kimmel Center’s Commonwealth Plaza, Phila. Kids are introduced to jazz and musical theatre. FREE
Books and Boots at the Myrick Conservation Center, West Chester, PA. Join Potter the Otter for storytime that leads to an outdoor adventure. $$
Tales of Slavery and Freedom Walking Tour at First State Heritage Park, Dover. See “Town & County,” p. 18. FREE
Galentine’s Day at the Penn Museum, Phila. Tours and activities celebrate Women’s History Month. $$$
Victorine’s Valentine’s Day at the Hagley Museum and Library, Wilmington. Make valentines using the “scrap method,” design a candy bar wrapper, write with a quill pen and hit the hot-cocoa bar. $$$
Terrific Toddlers Program: Nature Valentines at Brandywine Creek State Park, Wilmington. $
9 Sunday
Chinese New Year Celebration: Year of the Rat at the Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington. Enjoy art projects, calligraphy and dough-figuring workshops and a performance by the Lion and Folk Dance Troupe. $$ Clue, On Stage at Clear Space Theatre Company, Rehoboth Beach. $$$$ PECO Family Jams: Identity Banners at Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, Phila. Make a banner inspired by the One Book, One Philadelphia youth pick, When We Were Alone. $$
14 Friday
Sweetheart Skate at Rothman Ice Rink, Phila. $$$ Valentine's Day: Wild About Love at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. Activities include crafts, animal presentations and a stroll through the “rainforest.” $$
15 Saturday
Fur-bruary Hike at Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes. Search the trails for signs of wildlife. FREE Girl Scout Program: For the Love of Animals at the Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. Find out the differences between pets and wild animals and what it takes to care for critters at the zoo. $$$ Philadelphia Winter Craft Beer Festival at Xfinity Live, Phila. More than a hundred beers will be available for sampling, as well as live music, contests, games and giveaways. $$$$
17 Monday
School Day-Off Camp at the Delaware Museum of Natural History, Wilmington. See “Kids’ Day Off,” left. $$$$ Zoo Camp: A Day in the Life of a Zookeeper at the Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. See “Kids’ Day Off,” left. $$$$
21 Friday
From Africa to the Americas at the Dover Public Library, Dover. See “Town & County,” p. 18. FREE
22 Saturday
KIDS’ DAY OFF
Looking for ways to keep the kids busy Presidents Day, Feb. 17 while you’re at work? Let them go wild at the Brandywine Zoo’s Zoo Camp: A Day in the Life of a Zookeeper, where they’ll discover what the job is like and create animal-enrichment activities. Or sign them up for School Day-Off Camp at the Delaware Museum of Natural History to partake in games and crafts. FEBRUARY 2020
Access to Science: Opening Doors to Autism at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, Phila. Visit the venue before it opens to the public. $$$ Girl Scout Program: Animals and Me at the Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. Activities focus on finding out what zoo residents need to thrive. $$$ Science Saturday: Fusion Fashions at the Hagley Museum and Library, Wilmington. Make “fabric” out of plastic grocery bags and find new uses for it. $$$
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Family Fun
TOWN & COUNTY: BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Signs of Spring Hike at Brandywine Creek State Park, Wilmington. FREE Tales of Slavery and Freedom Walking Tour at First State Heritage Park, Dover. See “Town & County," right. FREE
23 Sunday
Mummers Mardi Gras Festival at Xfinity Live, Phila. There’ll be string-band performances, celeb sightings, photo opportunities with costumes and props, vendors and all-ages activities. $$$
25 Tuesday
Stages of Discovery: Walk On: The Story of Rosa Parks at Copeland Hall, Wilmington. See “Town & County,” right. $$
28 Friday
Stargazing Program at Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes. Look for planets and winter constellations. $
This month brings several ways to honor African-American history, cultural significance and contributions to the community. KENT COUNTY Dover knows how to celebrate! On Saturdays, families can experience the Tales of Slavery and Freedom Walking Tour. Kicking off at the John Bell House, the tour is led by historical interpreters dressed in period garb who recall Delaware’s complicated position as a border state. From Feb. 7–March 20, the Biggs Museum of American Art’s Lessons: An Exhibition by Billy Colbert showcases segregation’s effects on education using multimedia installations of rare videos and photographs of the time, as well as artifacts from segregated schools, provided by county residents.
29 Saturday
And, at the Dover Public Library’s From Africa to the Americas program Feb. 21, visitors journey between the two continents via music, dance, songs and stories that highlight African-influenced culture.
Girl Scout Program: Helping Animals, Helping Us at the Brandywine Zoo, Wilmington. Discover how animals and humans assist each other while earning an Animal Helpers badge. $$$
NEW CASTLE COUNTY Visit Wilmington’s Copeland Hall Feb. 25 for a performance of Walk On: The Story of Rosa Parks. The show blends music and drama to illustrate the civil-rights icon’s life, from childhood in rural Alabama to her famous decision on a city bus.
Bird Walk at Brandywine Creek State Park, Wilmington. $
Tales of Slavery and Freedom Walking Tour at First State Heritage Park, Dover. See “Town & County,” right. FREE
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Education
continued from p. 8
when they’re preverbal,” she says. Gladwyne Montessori in Gladwyne, PA is one of a handful of programs in the area that provides an infant classroom. While babies may not necessarily be completing “work” like their toddler counterparts, the structure of the classroom always keeps Montessori principles at the forefront. “A Montessori classroom focuses on language acquisition, so a teacher won’t just change a diaper, she’ll talk to a baby — say she must be feeling uncomfortable, here’s what we’re going to do to address it, here are the steps involved in changing the diaper,” explains Head of School Carrie Kries. “A baby isn’t going to necessarily understand those words just yet, but in time she will acquire the sounds as well as the steps and routine of diaper changing in a way that gives a child an understanding and respect for her own body and the idea that she has a say in how this all goes.”
18 MetroKids.com
Once a baby is old enough to stand, diapers are changed in the standing position so infants can see what’s happening and participate as much as they’re developmentally able. Kries notes that the infants in their program also do not use high chairs and they nap on tiny beds that are low to the ground, so they can access eating and sleeping areas independently. “Rather than going through the motions of taking care of a baby, which is the primary purpose of daycare, the key ingredient of a Montessori program is developing the human spirit and celebrating the child for what he or she can do and all of the things they continue to learn how to do,” Kries adds. “The confidence that children of any age can develop is unbelievable — when they’re physically manipulating something and learning that they can do it on their own and don’t need someone to help them, the joy on their face when they solve a difficult problem is the greatest thing in the world,” Barrera says. Jennifer Lesser is a freelance writer from New Jersey.
FEBRUARY 2020
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Family Fun
Part of Your World Multicultural Festivals in Delaware
Did you know that nearly 1 in 10 Delaware residents is an immigrant? Celebrate the state’s multiculturalism during festivals that not only connect individuals to their heritage — they also provide a great opportunity for education and exploration, teaching kids the importance of diversity along the way.
HOLY TRINITY GREEK FESTIVAL KOREAN FESTIVAL When: June When: September Where: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Wilmington Experience authentic Greek cooking, music, kids’ activities and performances by the Greek Terpsechorian youth folk dance group,
CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL When: January/February
Where: Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington
Celebrate Chuseok, Korean Thanksgiving, with activities that relate to traditional and modern Korean culture. Visitors can expect Korean-inspired art projects, a photo booth, snack sampling and demos. Be sure to check out artwork on display by students from the Delaware Korean School.
NANTICOKE INDIAN POWWOW When: September
Where: Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington
This family-friendly program features traditional Chinese art activities (think calligraphy and dough figuring), demos, musical performances and the main-event Lion Dance.
Where: Nanticoke Indian Museum, Millsboro
ST. ANTHONY’S ITALIAN FESTIVAL When: June
The term “powwow” refers to any gathering of native people. Join this one to take part in group singing and dancing and browse wares made by skilled Native American artisans including jewelry, pottery, moccasins, ribbon shirts, artwork, dream catchers and paintings.
Where: St. Anthony’s Parish, Wilmington
Bring your appetite for a variety of authentic Italian food and a homemade wine competition, as well as entertainment, rides, games, concerts and family activities.
AFRICAN-AMERICAN FESTIVAL When: June 27 Where: Legislative Mall, Dover
What began as a modest gathering to commemorate Juneteenth Day in 1991 has evolved into one of the state’s biggest bashes, complete with a drum-and-dance parade, vendor exhibits, entertainment, live music and an outdoor marketplace.
FEBRUARY 2020
NCCIS IRISH FESTIVAL When: October
Where: New Castle County Irish Society
Vendors sell merchandise, food and drinks while visitors enjoy a dance program, music and prizes. Log on to MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.
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