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MetroKids 29 YEARS

March 2019 | FREE

Philly & theâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Burbs

Smart. Local. Parenting.

Tikes & Teens

EXPLORE

Satisfy the Curious Child Pick a Perfect Preschool T(w)een Art Scene

Camp Abroad

PLUS: Dozens of Local Camps

PICTURE IT! Your child as the winner of

2017-18 CoverKid winners: Alexis W. of Philadelphia Addison O. of Plymouth Meeting Aspen F. of Philadelphia Joseph T. of Philadelphia

MetroKids’ annual CoverKids Search is open to all children from infants to age 16. Professional casting agents, local modeling agents and photographers will select the winners. One additional CoverKid will be selected by a vote of our readers.

FREE TOenter atENTER! MetroKids.com/coverkids

Deadline: July 1, 2019 How to enter: Mail or submit one recent photo online, with the date it was taken, to be reviewed by the judges. Photo tips: Entrants must be photographed individually. Do not wear make-up or costumes. This is NOT a beauty pageant. We’re looking for kids with natural good looks and lots of personality! What happens next: Finalists will be selected for a live ﬁnal audition in August. Grand Prize Winners and Finalists will be announced in MetroKids magazine. Grand Prize Winners will appear on a MetroKids’ cover or one of our other publications including SpecialKids, Educator’s Edition and MetroKids’ Ultimate Family Guide. Entrants must be available for a local cover photo shoot at a later date. All entrants’ photos will appear on MetroKids.com.

mk Inside mk

Camp 2019 14 Teen Travel Camps 16 2019 Camp Directory

In This Issue 4 9 Secrets for New Moms 5 Win it! 5 MomSpeak Highlights 6 Care for the Caregiver 8 A Boo-boo or Worse? 10 How to Pick a Preschool 12 Occupy Your Little Explorer 31 Books Family Fun 24 Cultivate Creativity 26 Day-by-day Calendar Ad Sections

MARCH 2019 Vol. 30, No. 3

3 Events; 7 Special Needs 9 Education; 11 Early Education 15 Camps; 25 Arts 29 Child Care; 30 Bulletin Board

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MetroKids.com/enews MARCH 2019

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215-657-5437

MetroKids.com 3

Mom Matters

9 Secrets Every New Mom Needs to Know By Cassi Denari As a new mom there will be a lot of uncertainty. Am I doing this right? Is my baby eating too often, not often enough? Is he sleeping enough? Is she pooping enough? Should it be that color? Here are some insights nobody told me that I wish I had known as a new mommy.

Got milk?

Don’t hesitate to call the lactation consultant if you have any questions about nursing. Nursing doesn’t come naturally to every woman. Like most things in life, you fare far better with a little instruction. So don’t be afraid to ask. “When I was in the hospital I asked for advice from every nurse who came to my room. Was I doing it right? Is the baby latched on correctly?’” says Lisa Banks, mother of two. “I left the hospital with a little more confidence about nursing,”

Doctor, doctor

If you have health concerns about your baby, don’t feel uncomfortable calling the pediatrician or nurse. Trust your instincts and call. It’s better to err on the side of caution. Always call the doctor if the baby develops a rash or a high fever.

Heavy lifting

Don’t lift anything heavier than your baby for the first month. Your body has been through a lot and needs pampering. Also, as soon as the doctor gives the okay, start doing those Kegel exercises. “Women do not realize they should be contracting their pelvic-floor muscles before they pick up their children,” says Sherrie Palm, founder and CEO of Association for Pelvic Organ Prolapse Support (APOPS). “Any heavy lifting can create pelvic-floor muscle problems, particularly too soon after childbirth.”

Aaahh, spa day

Take a shower every day! You’ll feel better, have more energy and definitely smell better. You might want to appoint a few people to remind you.

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mk smart. local. parenting.

1412-1414 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19102 215-291-5560 856-667-3555 302-224-3020 Toll Free: 888-890-4668 Fax: 215-291-5565

President: Nancy Lisagor, PhD, ext. 109 nlisagor@metrokids.com Publisher: Darlene Weinmann, ext. 108 dweinmann@metrokids.com

Help me, help you

If someone offers help (dinner, laundry, or just to hold the baby while you shower or sleep), let him. Put the “I can do it all myself” attitude on hold for this short time and get used to asking people for help. You’ll need to do it often over the next, oh, 18 years or so.

Don’t take it personally

After you have a baby everyone you meet will offer advice. Don’t take their suggestions personally. You’re not doing anything wrong. Mothers love to dispense helpful information. Use what works for you and toss out the rest.

Managing Editor: Dave Gilmartin, ext. 102 editor@metrokids.com Resource Editor: Cheyenne Shaffer, ext. 101 calendar@metrokids.com Contributing Writers: Terri Akman, Suzanne Koup-Larsen, Frank Lipsius, Kathy O’Connell, Ann L. Rappoport, PhD Production Manager: Veronica Hanna, ext. 103 production@metrokids.com Finance: Marcella Reis, ext. 104 finance@metrokids.com Marketing/Circulation: Susan Braverman, ext. 100 marketing@metrokids.com Intern: Matthew Brooks

Hush little mama

“Sleep when the baby sleeps. Who cares about the cleaning and the laundry, take a nap while the baby sleeps. You’ll thank yourself for it,” says Krystal Luster, a mother of two.

ADVERTISING SALES 888-890-4668 Jeanie Mudgett-McGeoch ext. 111 Pam Kuperschmidt ext. 120

Oh, the drama

Your hormones are on a wild roller coaster ride right now. You will cry for seemingly no reason at all, you will laugh, you might be overwhelmed and maybe even a little blue, all within 10 minutes. Don’t be alarmed, these are your hormones talking. This will pass, but if the baby blues persist, consult your doctor.

Emily Ondik ext. 105

Samantha Tuttle ext. 106

Classified Sales ext. 100

We welcome your ideas and feedback. Write us at editor@metrokids.com or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google Plus and Instagram.

Ask and you shall receive

This is not the time to hint and hope that your husband understands your wants and needs. If you need him to do something, you must ask. “Men are generally not very intuitive, so if you tell him specifically what you want, you are much more likely to get it,” says Greg Bishop author of Hit the Ground Crawling.

Cassi Denari is a freelance writer.

MetroKids® is published monthly by KidStuff Publications, Inc. © 2019 MetroKids® Magazine. All rights reserved by KidStuff Publications, Inc. ISSN 1094-8503. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material. MetroKids® or KidStuff Publications do not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. MetroKids® and SpecialKids® are trademarks of KidStuff Publications, Inc. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Advertisers indemnify and hold harmless the publisher from any claim and all loss, expense, or liability arising out of the publication of any advertisement. SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S.A. $36, one year; $72, two years. Single copies free. AWARD–WINNING MEMBER OF THE:

MARCH 2019

Win It!

S uhpeeerrro eess, , e ro & PRIZES Little ones are always on the move! Disney’s Frozen Quad Skates are just what they need. Adjustable between junior sizes 1-4, the skates are made of impact-resistant polymer plastic and feature a safety strap closure. (Playwheels; 4+; $35)

MomSpeak

The MomSpeak Roundup

Our MomSpeak highlights this month include how to buy big (warehouse-club shopping) and how to buy small (dollar-store shopping). There are also tips for positive discipline. Check out the full posts at MetroKids.com/MomSpeak.

10 Dollar-Store Finds Lisa Lightner, of ADayinOurShoes.com, says the dollar store always reminds her of her grandmother. She recommends 10 dollar-store finds including, seriously, pregnancy tests.

Buy in Bulk or Nah Darla DeMorrow, of HeartWorkOrg.com, says your best intentions of buying in bulk might be thwarted by storage, waste and impulse in “3 Reasons Your (Buying in Bulk) Math Might Be Wrong.”

Practice Positive Discipline Katie Chiavarone, of ViewsFromaStepstool.com, gives 10 ways to practice positive discipline with your kids. “Parenting doesn’t have to be a power struggle or a dictatorship.”

Developing Creative Minds Through Playful Learning! Treat your baby like royalty with the Tiny Princess Tales Gymini activity mat featuring adorable plush critters, plus adjustable, open arches that complement growth, encourage tummy time and allow easy parental access. (Tiny Love; $47.99) The Big Book of Superhero Bedtime Stories — written by Philly-based author Noah Smith — gives heroes-intraining a peek into the night-time routines of their fave DC characters. They’ll get answers to questions like: Does Batman sleep upside down like a bat? Or, does Green Lantern use his power battery as a nightlight? ($16.99) Log on to MetroKids.com/winit and enter to win your favorite prize, beginning March 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. MARCH 2019

DelawareChildrensMuseum.org MetroKids.com 5

SpecialKids

Care for the Caregiver How to support parents of children with special needs. By Christa Melnyk Hines When Tracy G.’s 13-month-old daughter Kira was hospitalized with acute myeloid leukemia, she was touched by the outpouring of support she and her husband received. During those eight difficult months, the community rallied around the family. Friends and acquaintances babysat Kira in the hospital while her mom and dad worked, and many others delivered meals and even mowed the family’s lawn.

“Words cannot express the gratitude you feel when someone you barely know does so much for you,” says Tracy, who was also pregnant at the time with Kira’s sister, Allina. Although Kira, now 7, has recovered from the frightening ordeal, she still faces many daily challenges. As a child with Down syndrome and autism, learning and development takes longer and requires more patience compared to the typical child. Like many parents who have children with special needs, Glock says finding time for herself is difficult. While many of us know how to help a family member in crisis, how do we support parents who often put their own needs last as they focus on the daily challenges of caring for youngsters with special needs?

Oﬀer to babysit

To find a trustworthy, alternate caregiver is a huge relief for parents who regularly juggle doctor’s appointments, school issues and therapy, not to mention jobs and other children. “Every parent’s needs are different, but most just love a little rest,” Tracy says.

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Because children with special needs require more attention from their parents, healthcare providers and therapists, other youngsters in the family may feel slighted. “Children always struggle, and this is the case whether they have special needs or not,” says Nancy M., mom to two children, including Emy, 16, and Kyle, 14, who is on the autism spectrum. “There are going to be sibling jealousies.” When her children were younger, she would often schedule her son’s appointments during times when her daughter was in preschool. “In my daughter’s mind, it wasn’t fair that someone was coming to the house and playing with her brother and not her.”

Brighten a friend’s day • Buy a gift certificate for a massage or manicure • Offer to babysit or help with siblings • Help get kids to practice • Deliver a meal • Mow her lawn • Send flowers or a card • Have the house cleaned you provide more effective support,” says Heather T., mom to two children with special needs, including Beth, 14, who has Down syndrome and Marie, 11, who has high-functioning autism. Both girls also have a connective tissue disorder called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Suggest resources

Listen

Support groups help parents feel less alone and provide valuable resources for assistance in childcare, school issues and healthcare. “The biggest thing for me was to know that I wasn’t in this by myself — that I wasn’t the only person who had a child who didn’t sleep well; that I wasn’t the only one with a child who is now 3 and not talking,” Nancy says. To find support groups in your area, consult with the therapists and teachers your child already works with, your library, your church and online at MetroKids.com/SpecialKids, for resources in Pennsylvania, South Jersey and Delaware, or national sites such as Autismspeaks.org or the National Down Syndrome Society’s Ndss.org. Also check out Facebook and MeetUp.com for local support groups.

Educate yourself

Christa Melnyk Hines is a freelance writer.

Access to a qualified babysitter you can trust with your child with special needs can give you an opportunity to spend much-needed, one-on-one time with your other children, too. Ask the parent how she’s doing and then simply listen. Avoid platitudes or suggestions to help her fix problems. “We all just like to be heard. Everybody likes to vent,” Nancy says. “Just listen to what the issues are without judgment. That’s a huge help for everybody, but primarily when you’re dealing with something that someone else might not understand.” Get to know the child, including her disability, her personality quirks and her individual needs. And ask the parent about her specific parenting challenges. “It shows that you care and will help

mk smart. local. parenting. MARCH 2019

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MetroKids.com 7

Health

Boo-Boo or Worse? A bump on the head is a rite of passage, but how can you tell when it’s something more serious? By Jennifer Lesser No matter how closely parents watch their kids, it’s nearly impossible to avoid the occasional bump on the head. Whether it’s a fall from a bike, a toddler tumble on the deck or a mishap on the playground, most kids will bang their head at some point. But as a parent, how do you know when that head injury needs nothing more than a Band-Aid, an ice pack or a kiss, and when it might require a visit to your child’s pediatrician or, more seriously, a trip to the ER? “When we’re talking about small children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that anything more than just a small bump really warrants a call to a primary care physician,” advises Edward Fog MD, emergency medicine specialist and associate medical director for AtlantiCare Physician Group in Clementon, NJ. “However, generally speaking, a small bump on the forehead with no loss of consciousness and no other symptom is considered to be a pretty minor event and nothing to warrant serious concern.” Here are some things that might indicate it is more serious than a boo-boo.

How far was the fall?

How how far did your child fall and how hard was his head struck? “Falls greater than five feet in kids under two years old, or greater than three feet in kids over two years old, are more of a concern, as are severe car accidents or a child struck by a car while walking or on a bike, or hit with a high-impact object like a bat or baseball,” says Anne Cadau, MD, staff physician at Patient First, with locations in South Jersey and Pennsylvania.

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Where is the bump?

Because the forehead is a more protected part of the skull, bumps and bruises on there aren’t usually cause for alarm, Fog explains, but bumps on the side or back of the head can be more of a concern. “It’s common to get swelling on the front of the head or forehead with a bump, and it’s usually no cause for alarm. However, in kids under two years old, swelling in any other part of the head should prompt an evaluation,” Cadau says.

doesn’t need anything more than a kiss on the forehead from mom or dad. “Typically a child who only cries for a minute or two and then goes right back to play and doesn’t vomit or exhibit any other symptoms, and who only has a small bump, is a child who is just fine,” Fog says.

Watch for these symptoms

How badly is it bleeding?

“Any bleeding that does not stop with pressure applied to the area for about 10 minutes should be evaluated for possible sutures or staples,” she adds.

What’s normal? What’s not?

It’s common to get a headache, nausea or dizziness immediately after a head injury, says Cadau, so one of the best ways to determine the severity of the injury is to closely monitor your child’s behavior afterward. “It’s best to have the child lay down or do a quiet activity so you can watch him,” she says. For children too young to verbalize what’s wrong, parents should look for irritability, extended periods of crying, or unusual sleepiness. “You’re really looking for any behavior that isn’t normal for him,” Fog adds. If your little one acts normally and wants to go back to play, she probably

Some symptoms could signal a more serious head injury and require medical attention. “More severe symptoms should be evaluated in an emergency department rather than urgent care or doctor’s office,” Cadau adds. “You know your child best … so if you’re concerned with how she’s acting, have her evaluated.” Cadau says to look for: • Fluid from the ears or nose • A bruise behind the ear • Vomiting more than twice or four to six hours after the accident • Severe or worsening headache • Drowsiness • Confusion • Difficulty walking, talking or seeing • Stiff neck • Seizures • Continuous crying • Weakness or numbness • Other unusual behavior. Jennifer Lesser is a New Jersey-based freelance writer.

MARCH 2019

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www.amirasdelites.com/baking-with-science-workshop MARCH 2019

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MetroKids.com 9

Education

3 Steps to Find a Preschool By Jan Pierce When it’s time to search for the perfect preschool for your little one, you want to be sure you’ll make the right decision. If you’re lucky enough to have friends who’ve done their research and are happy with their choice, you’re fortunate; you’ll have first-hand recommendations. If not, here is some advice. Before you start, be aware of the difference between daycare and preschool. Daycares provide custodial care, take children of all ages and offer extended hours but don’t usually offer an educational curriculum. A preschool usually has limited hours and may or may not offer before- and after-school care. In daycare, children of all ages may be grouped together, while a preschool is segregated by age groups. Be sure you start your search early. Many excellent preschools have long waiting lists.

Ask questions

Look for these qualities

Find a school that provides: • Proximity to your home/work. • Solid reputation and up-to-date accreditation, licenses, state approval. • Clear rules and regulations, health/illness policies, pickup and drop-off times. • Clean, well-kept facilities with adequate indoor and outdoor play areas. • Qualified, caring staff. • Stimulating curriculum and age appropriate toys. • A philosophy and climate that suits you and is right for your child’s temperament. The NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) has a database of its accredited preschools at Naeyc.org. It is updated weekly. It also lists daycares.

Here are questions to ask before you narrow your search to schools that you want to visit: • Is there room for my child? If not, is there a waiting list? • What are the fees? How and when are we billed? • How do they communicate with parents? (phone, emails, newsletters, website) • What is their staff-to-student ratio? (NAEYC recommends an adult to every four-to-nine children for ages 2–3 and one for every eight-to-10 children ages 4–5.)

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• Do their staff members have credentials and training? Are their backgrounds checked? Do they know CPR? Do they continue to receive training? • What is their educational philosophy? (academic-oriented, exploration, faith-based, etc.) Some distinct philosophies include Montessori, Waldorf, or Reggio-Emilia. • What health/hygiene standards are enforced? (immunizations, sick-child rules, hand-washing, etc.) • How do they handle discipline? • Are meals and snacks provided? Do kids take naps? • What safety precautions are in place? (procedures for strangers on-campus, release policies, sign-in/out) • Can they provide a list of references? (Be sure to call them.) • Can they provide a sample of a weekly curriculum and activities? How often are activities changed?

Visit schools

After you gather information you’ll be able to narrow your list down to two or three to visit. Decide whether you want to do this with your child or on your own. When you visit you’ll be looking for the above qualities of a good school, but also to get a “feel” for the school. • Do you feel welcome? • Are the children busy and engaged in work or play? • Is the facility pleasing to the eye and orderly? • Do you get the sense that you’d feel comfortable leaving your child in this school’s care. • Are the children happy? Jot down your first impressions and any new information you find during the visit. If you don’t feel comfortable with the school environment, trust your instincts and look for another school. It might be preferable to find a safe daycare until you find a preschool of the highest standards. You want the perfect preschool, and your child deserves it. All the time and effort you put into your search will pay huge dividends in a happy, healthy and well-cared for child. Jan Pierce is a retired teacher and freelance writer.

Find More Online • • • •

Get a checklist to use during a school visit Learn about different preschool philosophies (Montessori, Waldorf, etc.) Learn about signs of a high-quality school vs. signs that suggest caution. Go to Metrokids.com/preschool

MARCH 2019

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Great futures begin at Benchmark, an internationallyrenowned leader in teaching bright students who learn differently. Every day, Benchmark’s expert faculty helps students transform obstacles into opportunities and challenges into capabilities. Small classes and differentiated learning provide the individual attention needed to ensure that students reach their full potential. Benchmark is by design a 1st through 8th grade experience that focuses on who each child is as a learner. Individualized instructional plans address each child’s challenges, strengths, and potential, creating a formula for success. Benchmark’s research-based methods are built on nearly 50 years of proven success. Its graduates are consistently acknowledged as being exceptionally wellprepared, confident learners, and articulate self-advocates. Administrators at matriculating schools often comment that, “Benchmark students have learned how to learn.” Alumni confirm that the Benchmark experience equipped them with the tools and strategies to succeed in school and also to enjoy fulfilling lives and successful careers around the globe.

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MetroKids.com MetroKids.com 11

Parenting

Young and Restless Educational activities for young explorers By Kimberly Blaker Does it seem like every time you turn around your home has been taken apart by your little explorer? Don’t despair. It may simply result from an extraordinary desire to learn. Who knows, your child just may be a future scientist, inventor or leader in the making. When your child needs to occupy her creative energy, have her try some of these fun, educational activities.

Put together a book of facts.

Pick a favorite topic, such as dinosaurs, insects, rock bands, sports or astronomy. Clip pictures and descriptions from magazines and internet printouts. Then trace drawings from books, and write about personal experiences with the topic.

Make up a scavenger hunt. Draw

up a list of easy-to-find items for your small children. Give older kids a greater challenge with a list of puzzles to solve in order to determine what items to find. Kids can also create their own scavenger hunt for family or friends.

Play restaurant. Have your child make up a restaurant menu with several simple dishes he can prepare. At dinnertime, he can seat the family, take orders, then prepare and serve the dishes. Recycle some fun. Start a discard

collection and teach your kids the importance of recycling and reusing disposable items. Then get their creative juices flowing. Save zippers and buttons from old clothing, plastic containers, fabric strips, packing materials, small scraps of wood, carpet and wallpaper scraps, and more. Then supply your kids with scissors, tape and glue, and let them go to work. Offer ideas to get started, then let them come up with their own creations.

Make a U.S. puzzle. Purchase several colors of clay and a United States map. Clip each state from the map, place a state clipping over the rolled-out clay and trace the shape into the clay with a toothpick. Cut out the shapes then write the name of the state with a pencil tip. Be sure to use a different color of clay for each neighboring state, and then let the shapes dry or bake according to instructions. Play Thomas Edison. Save those old kitchen appliances, computers, DVD players and other electronics. Give your child a supply of tools such as pliers, screwdrivers and safety glasses, and let him go to work. Kids love this type of exploration and learn by taking apart and examining the inner workings of electronics. Cut the electrical cord to prevent mishaps. And supervise for sharp parts or mechanisms that could pinch fingers. Create a video. Have your children make up several humorous television commercials using household items for props and by dressing for the part. After they’ve rehearsed their skits, set up a video camera and tape their production. Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer.

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Places to Take an Eager Explorer Are you looking for some new and exciting places to take your kids? Try some of these spots.

Art museums They offer a variety of activities

to spark your kids’ interest. Many offer art and craft workshops, traveling exhibits, book signings by children’s illustrators, and even musical performances and other arts. To ﬁnd local art museums, go to Metrokids.com/PlacestoVisit and select the Art Museums & Centers category.

Natural history museums Here kids can

discover the past from dinosaur displays and stuffed-animal exhibits to geology collections, ancient mummies and astronomy. Also, ask what kind of workshops and educational programs are available for kids and any special events that are coming up. To ﬁnd local natural history museums, go to Metrokids.com/PlacestoVisit and select the Science Museums category.

Youth theatre Look for one in your region

that offers plays for child and family audiences. Pre-show “playshops” conducted by area artists and educators, where kids can explore the performing arts from puppet making to stage makeup, are just a couple of the activities you might find. Ask about summer arts programs too. To ﬁnd theaters, go to Metrokids.com/PlacestoVisit and select the Theaters category.

Hands-on science Visit one of the many hands-on science museums around the country. These science playlands are great fun for kids and adults alike. They’ll keep your kids mentally and physically active while they push buttons, wind cranks, play instruments, experiment and build. When everyone is exhausted, enjoy a family science show, the observatory, an IMAX movie or simulator rides, all commonly found in these museums. To ﬁnd local science museums, go to Metrokids.com/PlacestoVisit and select the Science Museums category.

MARCH 2019

please touch museum Explore and celebrate modern and historic Muslim cultures from the Greater Philadelphia region, our country and the world. America to Zanzibar Program Highlights

Muslim Cultures Near and Far

• Buy, sell and trade spices and design clothing through imaginative play in the global marketplace. • Experience the everyday lives of Muslim American families. • Discover world-class objects and artifacts on loan from the Free Library of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. • Experience performances and art demonstrations by Muslim American artists, musicians and storytellers. • AND SO MUCH MORE! *Admission to this exhibit is included with Museum general admission. Major support for America to Zanzibar has been provided by

Feb. 2 - Sept. 2, 2019 with additional support from

Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission • The Mayor’s Fund for Philadelphia Connelly Foundation • Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation

4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131 • 215-581-3181 • pleasetouchmuseum.org America to Zanzibar: Muslim Cultures Near and Far was developed by the Children’s Museum of Manhattan.

Summer Camp at Chesterbrook Academy • • • • • • •

Day camp with extended hours Field trips and events Nature and science Arts and crafts Sports and games Music, dance and drama Swimming* Not available at all locations

For more information, visit ChesterbrookAcademy.com/Camp

CBA_MetroKids-Camp-Mar19_7.25x4.625.indd MARCH 2019

2/13/19 9:48 AM MetroKids.com 13

Students sea kayak in the fjords of Norway on The Road Less Traveled’s Footsteps of Giants trip

Camp Camp

Teen Travelers At travel camps, kids explore the world, themselves By Susan Stopper When Upper Darby, PA native Julia Fournier aged out of the summer theater camp she had attended, she tried something new. She spent the summer after her sophomore year of high school in India with The Road Less Traveled (RLT), a travel program that runs trips for middle and high school students. In India, Fournier spent 28 days on community-service projects, hiking and absorbing Indian culture. She enjoyed it so much she went to Costa Rica and Panama with RLT the next summer. “I loved having an experience completely separate and removed from my day-to-day life,” says Fournier, who is now an admissions counselor for RLT. “You could reinvent yourself and there was space to explore different parts of yourself. “I learned I really enjoy hard work. We were moving bricks to build a classroom for a school. It was hard work and I was hot and physically exhausted, but it was so satisfying because it had an important purpose.”

Deckelbaum helped match Stacy’s son with a Rustic Pathways trip to Thailand, where he worked with abused elephants. The next summer he laid pipes to provide potable water to remote mountain villages in Peru. Her daughter wanted to try something similar, but not as far away. Deckelbaum suggested RLT’s Florida conservation trip, which she loved. “Summer travel options for this age group are quite broad,” says Deckelbaum. Teens can choose camps that focus on sightseeing, community service, language immersion, hiking, biking, photography, conservation, animal studies, cooking or a combination. After they identify the right fit for a child’s interests, parents should ask about the program’s rules, communication policies, safety procedures and staff training. What kind of emergency and first-aid training do the leaders have? Are they trained to work with teenagers? What are their emergency protocols? Is the camp accredited by the American Camp Association? How can parents communicate with Broaden skills, views their children and how often? An astronomy lesson at Whale Camp on Grand Manan Island, At an age when kids are easily Parents can also request to talk New Brunswick, Canada. bored, question everything and with parents whose children often seek risks, travel programs give “It was a great experience. My daughter have attended the programs. teens a unique opportunity. conquered some fears and earned her “They get out of their comfort zone scuba-diving certification,” she says. How much will it cost? while still in a controlled, safe environRustic Pathways, an adventure and Travel programs come with a hefty ment,” says Cailin Burmaster, program community-service travel program, price tag that ranges from $1,400 to director at the Whale Camp on Grand surveys students before and after their $8,000 dependent on length and location. Manan Island in the Bay of Fundy in New trips. In 2017, participants said they Many programs, however, offer financial Brunswick, Canada. grew in openness, sense of wonderment, aid. RLT offers scholarships through an The last two summers, Sonia J., a shared humanity, a desire to have a organization called Geography of Hope, 15-year-old from Chatham, NJ, traveled positive impact, empathy, self-awareness, and Rustic Pathways offers scholarships to Whale Camp. It gave her the opporhumility, independence and intercultural as well as a fundraising guide to help tunity to explore marine biology, which competence. teens raise the money themselves. Local interests her as a career, and, in the procivic organizations, such as Rotary Clubs, cess, “I learned I was able to be on my own How to pick a travel camp can also provide help. and take care of myself. And I made a lot Stacy B. of Narberth, PA worked with of friends I still talk to,” she says. camp adviser Lois Deckelbaum from Tips Susan S. Stopper is a Pennsylvania-based Tom Rosenberg, president and CEO of freelance writer. on Trips and Camps, which helps famthe American Camp Association, says, ilies choose a camp, when her children “As parents, we work hard to protect our aged out of traditional overnight camp.

14 MetroKids.com

kids from making mistakes and getting hurt, and sometimes we bubble wrap them. Then they don’t learn resilience. These programs teach them how to make mistakes and try again. They learn to work through anything they set their mind to.” Marika S.’s daughter traveled to Florida from their home in Wilmington, DE with RLT last summer to help with coral-reef reconstruction and other conservation efforts.

CAMP

MARCH 2019

THE #1 STEM CAMP

FOR AGES 7–19

From coding and game dev to robotics and design, your child will develop in-demand skills and ignite lifelong passions—all in a fun, inclusive environment. Choose from 50+ innovative courses and join our community of over 400,000 alumni. Get ready for the best summer ever!

Get a brochure and ﬁnd a camp near you!

Echo Hill Camp on the Chesapeake Bay Sleep-away summer camp 145 boys and girls ages 7-16 2 - 8 week sessions June 23 - August 17, 2019 www.echohillcamp.com info@echohillcamp.com ph. 410.348.5303

campcaribbeanadventure.com MARCH 2019

CAMP

MetroKids.com 15

Camp Directory

DELAWARE

Thrilling adventures are in store for children at summer camps throughout the Delaware Valley in 2019! 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 at the bottom of the page.

Academy of Notre Dame de Namur 560 Sproul Rd. Villanova, PA 610-687-0650 Ndapa.org/summercamp

DAY Notre Dame summer programs include dance, science, rowing, and sports camps for middle and high school girls. Discover, explore, create, and have fun!

Benchmark School Summer Camp 2107 N. Providence Rd. Media, PA; 610-565-3741 Admissions@benchmarkschool.org Benchmarkschool.org

DAY Language Arts Instruction & Recreation Day Camp for children entering grades 1-6. 5 weeks: July 1 to August 2. The program places an emphasis on developing executive function skills, self-esteem and confidence, as well as design thinking in our new Innovation Lab. Swimming, science, art, sports and a confidence ropes course included; individual math tutoring available. SN

Community Arts Center — Summer Spree 414 Plush Mill Rd. Wallingford, PA; 610-566-1713 CommunityArtsCenter.org

DAY Summer Spree is an arts camp for ages 4-17, offering visual art, music, outdoor fun and special activities. Half- or full-day options during one-week sessions, June through Aug. Experience the power of art in a magical place.

Darlington Arts Center Summer Camp 977 Shavertown Rd. Garnet Valley, PA 610-358-3632 info@darlingtonarts.org Darlingtonarts.org/camp

DAY, PROGRAM The learning doesn’t stop when school is out! Creative kids ages 3-14 are inspired to keep creating throughout the summer and express themselves through the visual and performing arts. Music, Visual Art, Dance, and Drama. The Arts are Everywhere! Explore all 4 art-forms with a different theme each week. Arts-intensive camps are also available. Download a brochure and register online (sign up by April 1 and save 10%!) SN

Friends School Haverford Day Camp 851 Buck Ln., Haverford, PA 610-642-2334, ext. 122 Friendshaverford.org

DAY Summer day camp for ages 3 yrs. to 8 yrs. Full-day program filled with arts & crafts, sports, games and nature exploration. Two-week sessions available from July 22-Aug. 23.

Find a searchable version at MetroKids.com/camps. Contact camps to express interest and mention you saw their listing in MetroKids. MULTIPLE LOCATIONS Engineering for Kids Multiple Locations 215-559-9233 greaterphila@ engineeringforkids.com Engineeringforkids.com/ greaterphila

DAY Engineering For Kids brings science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to kids in a fun and challenging way through camps, classes and parties. We are proud to inspire children to build on their natural curiosity by teaching engineering concepts through hands-on learning. Please use METRO10 for $10 Off during registration while registering for Shipley location. For All other locations please contact us via email for $10 mail-in discount.

NEW ESF Summer Camps

DAY ESF’s award-winning traditional, sports and specialty camps for ages 3-15, combine Education, Sports & Fun and offer 60+ activities for every interest. PA locations in Haverford, Newtown Square, Chester Springs, and Chestnut Hill. Join us for an Open House. Enroll online today!

Multiple Locations in Chestnut Hill, Haverford, Chester Springs, & Newtown Sq. 1-800-529-CAMP esfcamps.com Info@esfcamps.com

Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania 330 Manor Rd. Headquarters: Miquon, PA Gsep.org/camp

DAY, PROGRAM, RESIDENTIAL Nobody does camp like Girl Scouts! Want to build exploding volcanoes, learn survival techniques like Katniss or whip up new recipes over a campfire? GSEP has got you covered. We’ve got four resident and three day camps that are open to all girls — let camp be ACA SN your first Girl Scouts experience!

Main Line Art Center 746 Panmure Rd. Haverford, PA; 610-525-0272 info@mainlineart.org mainlineart.org

DAY At the 2019 Main Line Art Center Summer Art Camp, Pre-teen and Teen studios, “Beyond the Page: The Art of Books,” books and art collide each week as campers explore stories, authors, artists and illustrators from the literary world. Creativity and imagination abound during our summer of creative exploration!

Temple University Summer Education Camps 580 Meetinghouse Rd. Temple University Ambler; Ambler, Center City, Main Campus 267-468-8500 Temple.edu/summer/youthcamps

DAY Temple University offers Summer Education Camps for youth ages 8 to 17. June, July & August at Ambler and Main campus. Camps include: Robotics, Art and Drawing, Forensic Science, Theater, Minecraft & more. Visit us on the web at temple.edu/summer/youthcamps

NEW Radnor Day Camp

DAY Radnor Day Camp (RDC) is a traditional summer camp experience for children entering grades 1-9. Planned activities include swimming, arts & crafts, performing arts, sports & games, special events and traditions, field trips, and much more! CIT SN

Summer Camp at The School in Rose Valley 20 School Ln. Rose Valley, PA 610-566-1088 summercamp@theschoolinrosevalley.org Theschoolinrosevalley.org/ summer

DAY Children ages 3–14 thrive at SRV’s Summer Camp on our beautiful 9.5 acre, wooded campus. Weekly themes guide indoor & outdoor activities that include daily swim lessons, pool games, and free swim in our on-site pools, archery, art, woodshop, sports, dance, nature, drama, music, cooking, and more! Preschool program offers flexible enrollment, older children design their days doing activities they love, and teens participate in the Counselor-In-Training Leadership Program. Two minutes from Media, PA.

NEW SuperCamp,

RESIDENTIAL SuperCamp sets out to instill lifelong learning skills that build motivation, confidence and leadership skills in your student. At SuperCamp, students meet lifelong friends and gain skills that help them grow throughout camp and their everyday lives. Enroll now!

The Grayson School 35 N. Malin Rd. Broomall, PA 19008 enrichment@thegraysonschool.org TheGraysonSchool.org/camp

DAY, PROGRAM MISSION TO MARS: How will we get there and survive? Collaborate with fellow scientists to overcome the perils of space and reach Mars. We will launch rockets, engineer a rover, conduct experiments, and train for your mission like an astronaut.

Young People’s Theatre Workshop (YPTW): Theatre Arts Summer Overnight Camp at Eastern University 363 Radford Ct. Glen Mills, PA 610-558-0988; yptw.org

DAY, RESIDENTIAL Overnight camp for ages 11-18 at Eastern University June 23-28, 2019. Classes include musical comedy, Shakespeare, improv, monologues, dance characterization auditions, showtunes. Air-conditioned dorms, good food, experienced staff of professional educators.

BUCKS Camp Onas 609 Geigel Hill Rd. Ottsville, PA 610-847-5858 Camponas.org

RESIDENTIAL Camp Onas, the Quaker camp in Bucks Cty., PA, is for all kids ages 8-13. Campers live & play in a friendly, diverse community, choosing their own activities from a complete camp program. 2- & 4- week sessions. Special 1-week sessions for first-time campers ages 7 & 8. ACA

George School Day Camp 1690 Newtown Langhorne Rd. Newtown, PA 215-579-6500 Gsdaycamp.org

DAY Summer is better with Friends! Voted Best Day Camp in Bucks County three years in a row, GSDC is open to boys and girls ages 4 to 14. From archery to arts, swimming to ziplining and everything in between GSDC gives campers experiences and opportunities like none other. Lunch is provided daily! CIT

Kids U! at Delaware Valley University 700 E. Butler Ave. Doylestown, PA delval.edu/kidsu2019

DAY Our Kids U! one-week specialty camps and academies feature science, digital arts, robotics, engineering, equine and more! Kids and teens ages 5 to 18 will have fun designing apps, working in a lab, interacting with animals, programming robots, building their own business and other exciting activities!

Kimberton Waldorf School Summer Camp 410 West Seven Stars Rd. Phoenixville, PA 19460 admissions@kimberton.org kimberton.org

DAY Summer days filled with creek adventures, arts, crafts, creative play, picnics, woodland explorations, games, water play and fun. Our beautiful campus provides a wholesome environment where children can experience the wonders of nature and create memories to last a lifetime.

DELAWARE VALLEY UNIVERSITY

CHESTER

Radnor Elementary School 20 Matsonford Rd. Wayne, PA 19087 Recreation@radnor.org radnor.com/RDC

Villanova University 800 Lancaster Ave, Villanova, PA 19085 info@SuperCamp.com supercamp.com/MetroKids

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

16 MetroKids.com

CAMP

MARCH 2019

Camp Lee Mar Est. 1981

Camp for Creative Arts, Technology, Sports, Swimming and more! 1405 Twining Road • Dresher, PA 19025 • 215-657-3388 •2 - 11 Week Sessions

• Door to Door Transportation • Extended Hours Available

• Non-consecutive wks avail. • Certified Teaching Staff & Nurse • Pre-School Enrichment Camp • Air Conditioned Buildings • Great Camper/Staff Ratio • Teen Quest Program

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Instruments, Rock and Jazz Bands, Theater, Art, Ceramics, Yoga, Robotics, Dance, Fashion Design, Voice , Photography, Pastry Arts, Creative Writing, Computer Animation, Film Making, Strategy Games, Science, Rocketry, Nature, Swim, Archery, Sports and More!

mper New Ca nt! Discou

OPEN HOUSES/TOURS FOR SUMMER 2019: (RAIN OR SHINE) Sunday, March 10th • 1pm - 4pm Saturday, March 16th • 10am - 2pm Sunday, March 17th • 1pm - 4pm

info@burnbraedaycamp.com

Celebrating 38 Years!

burnbraedaycamp.com

Camp Lee Mar 2017 Dates:

June 24-August 11

th 7 6 ason! Se

2019 Dates: June 22 - August 9

Winter Office: Camp Lee Mar Ph: 215-658-1708 Fax: 215-658-1710 Please visit us on

On YouTube you can view parents and campers talking about their experiences at Lee Mar.

MARCH 2019

CAMP

MetroKids.com 17

Camp Directory MONTGOMERY

AIM Academy Summer Enrichment Program 1200 River Rd. Conshohocken, PA 215-483-2461 summer@aimpa.org Aimpa.org

DAY Explore STEAM activities and reinforce essential skills in reading, writing, math and college prep in a creative and dynamic enrichment environment. Campers enjoy opportunities to imagine, invent and play as well as three hours of daily SN literacy and academic instruction.

Bala House Montessori Summer Camp 27 Conshohocken State Rd. Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-664-6767 admissions@ balahouse.org Balahouse.org

DAY, PROGRAM Fun, yet stimulating experience for first time campers. Flexible schedules and convenient hours (8am5:45pm) for ages 3-6. Choose individual weeks as needed. Weekly art, gymnastics and Soccer Shots classes complement our small, nurturing environment. Storytellers, petting zoos & museums visit camp. Our beautiful wooded campus and well-equipped playground are the perfect backdrop for summer fun.

Blue Bell Camp Box 444 Blue Bell, PA 19422 215-646-4444 Info@bluebellcamp.net bluebellcamp.net

DAY Providing a traditional day camp experience since 1946. Boys and Girls 4 to 11 years old. Mature, adult staff made up entirely of professional certified school teachers and coaches. Campers learn over 20 activities (athletic and creative).

Burn Brae Day Camp of Creative Arts (Camp for the Arts, Technology, Swim, Sports and More!) 1405 Twining Rd. Dresher, PA 215-657-3388 info@burnbraedaycamp.com Burnbraedaycamp.com

DAY Celebrating 38 years of friendships, confidence-building, fun and exploration for boys and girls ages 3-15. A huge variety of indoor and outdoor activities on our beautiful, spacious setting. A/C buildings, centrally located. Nurturing, non-competitive environment, no bully zone. Campers ages 7-15 create their own schedules according to their interests. Ages 3-6 have the opportunity to try everything in a well-rounded schedule. Pick and choose from 2-11 week sessions with non-consecutive weeks available. Experienced, caring and professional certified teaching staff. 5 to 1 camper/staff ratio. Academic tutoring available. Door to door transportation. Early and late care. Registered Nurse on-site.

Camp Kef 45 Haverford Rd. Kaiserman JCC Wynnewood, PA 610-896-7770, ext. 123 kaisermancamp@phillyjcc.com Phillyjcc.com/camp/camp-kef/

DAY Camp Kef at the Kaiserman JCC is a full-service traditional day camp packed with fun (kef). Campers have opportunities to add special programs onto their camp experience. Swim every day. Art, drama, sports and all new CIT SN specialists highlight each week.

Camp MELC Multiple Locations, PA 610-617-4550 info@melc.org Melc.org

DAY If you’re looking for a neighborhood camp with a lot of activities, Camp MELC is for you! 50+ years of experience. Your child’s summer will be filled with art, science and sport activities, air-conditioned settings and field trips. For ages 5-12, we offer three 3-week sessions, and our tuition rates include a 10-hour camp day and field trips. Wynnewood, Plymouth Meeting, Pottstown. CIT

Camp Pegasus 272 S. Bryn Mawr Ave. Bryn Mawr, PA Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy 610-649-1080 ext. 3 info@camppegasus.com camppegasus.com

DAY Camp Pegasus, in Bryn Mawr, PA, is a co-ed day camp for 6- to 16-year olds struggling with social-cognitive deficits. By weaving together social skills techniques, creative-art therapies and traditional camp activities, kids with/without diagnoses like ADHD, Asperger’s, HFA, improve social competency and increase self-esteem. SN

Center School’s Summer Program 2019 2450 Hamilton Ave. Abington, PA 215-657-2200 mstalker@centerschoolpa.org Centerschoolpa.org

PROGRAM Center School’s Summer Learning and Enrichment Program provides students with academic and recreational opportunities to develop and maintain skills, practice effective learning strategies, and increase abilities. Help your child realize their potential this summer! For students in grades 1-8. July 8, 2019 to August 2, 2019.

Cheltenham Center for the Arts 439 Ashbourne Rd. Cheltenham 215-379-4660 education@cheltenhamarts.org Cheltenhamarts.org

DAY Summer Art Camp is the best place to explore your creativity. Kids ages 5-12 will experience the fun of drawing, painting, theatre and clay every day! Weekly swimming trips are included as well as guest artists throughout the summer. Teens ages 13-16 are offered a more in-depth art experience focusing on ceramics, painting/drawing printmaking and other special topics in our Teen Summer Studio. Sessions June 17-Aug. 23, 2019. Come for one week or for the whole summer! Call today for details!

Elmwood Park Zoo Camp 1661 Harding Blvd. Norristown, PA 610-277-3825 ext. 236 camp@elmwoodparkzoo.org Epzcamps.com

DAY, PROGRAM Children ages 6-11 will explore habits and daily lives of some of the zoo’s wild residents. Each weeklong camp includes a lot of learning and fun, with crafts, stories, snacks, animal visitors, and in-depth tours of the zoo. Regular summer zoo events and shows are incorporated into camp each week. The 2019 season will also feature half-day camps for ages 3-5.

Flourtown Swim Club & Day Camp 1528 Bethlehem Pike Flourtown, PA; 215-836-1429 dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net Flourtownswimclub.net

DAY A traditional summer day camp with Educational Leadership, the Flourtown Summer Day Camp is designed to give every child a positive experience with lifelong memories. CIT

French for Fun c/o French International School of Philadelphia 150 N. Highland Ave. Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-667-1284 info@efiponline.com Frenchschoolphila.org/ summer-camp/

DAY The French for Fun Summer Camp caters to children aged 4 to 10 and offers activities, workshops and field trips, all supervised by certified teachers from the French International School of Philadelphia.

Friends’ Central School Summer Programs 1101 City Line Ave. Wynnewood, PA 610-645-5132 kclayton@friendscentral.org Fcsprograms.org

DAY, PROGRAM Our families say it best: The children always have a positive experience. The multitude of activity options keep the children interested and engaged. Our children look forward to attending camp each summer. Who doesn’t go to FCS? They’re missing out!

Frog Hollow Racquet Club 2115 Weber Rd. Lansdale, PA 610-584-5502 Frogtennis.com

DAY Frog Hollow’s Tennis Camp is an exceptional place for children to learn tennis, meet friends and make memories! Frog Hollow has a camp for all levels and all ages: Tadpoles Camp (ages 3 and 4), Kids Club (ages 5-10), Top Spinners Camp (ages 11-13) or a Competitive Training Camp (ages14 – 18) for High School and Middle School players looking to advance on their team ladder. Invitational camp is available for sectionally and nationally ranked tournament players. Sign up for a week or the entire summer, for full day or half day (tadpoles camp is 1 hour per day). Camp runs June September; weekly sign ups and extended day are available. SN Visit www.Frogcamps.com to learn more

Germantown Academy Day Camp and Summer Programs 340 Morris Rd. Ft. Washington, PA 267-405-7321 summer@gacamp.org Gacamp.org

DAY, PROGRAM, RESIDENTIAL Germantown Academy offers children ages 3 to 16 an amazing all-around day camp experience, instructional sports camps with GA coaches, and specialized camps in the arts, sciences, and technology at the school’s beautiful campus in Fort Washington. CIT

Hideaway Day Camp 3471 Arcola Rd. Collegeville, PA 610-489-2191 Hideawaydaycamp.com

DAY The true camp experience. Coed program for ages 4-14 on 72 beautiful acres near Valley Forge. Fishing, canoeing, archery, swimming, equestrian, sports, arts & crafts and ropes adventure course with rock wall.

Miquon Day Camp 2025 Harts Ln., Conshohocken, PA 267-240-4456 campdirector@miquon.org Miquon.org/camp

DAY At Miquon, children experience summer the way it used to be - when kids had freedom to play, explore and experience the great outdoors. Located on a wooded campus just outside NW Philadelphia, Miquon offers children that camp experience of yesteryear. ACA CIT

Pathway School, The 162 Egypt Rd. Jeffersonville, PA 610-277-0660 dphifer@pathwayschool.org Pathwayschool.org

DAY Have fun at our 6-week summer program which provides authentic learning experiences through hands-on activities and exciting field trips. SN

Ramah Day Camp Eileen Graub, Ass’t Dir. 7601 Old York Rd. Elkins Park, PA 215-885-8556 eileeng@ramahpoconos.org

DAY Ramah Day Camp is a fun and dynamic summer camp experience for children in PreK (4 yrs.) through 7th grade with an experiential CIT program for 8th-10th graders. Sports, swim, arts, ropes course, garden, specialty programming & more take place in an enriching Jewish environment. June 20-Aug. 10, 2018. Special needs inclusion program. Transportation, lunch, extended care options and scholarship available. CIT 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

18 MetroKids.com

CAMP

MARCH 2019

SUMMER CAMP WWW.YMCAGBW.ORG/CAMP

2 19

SUMMER PROGRAMS

One Childhood. Camp It Well.

EXPERIENCE

FUN AND ADVENTURE! • • • • • •

Creative Arts Sports Preschool Swim Gymnastics and Dance Teen: Adventure and Leadership • Environmental Ed and STEM • Tennis and more!

The YMCA is a cause-driven charitable organization that provides financial assistance for camps. Ask us for details.

For ages 2 to 18 Full- and half-day options. Camps vary by branch.

YMCA OF GREATER BRANDYWINE BRANDYWINE YMCA • JENNERSVILLE YMCA • KENNETT AREA YMCA LIONVILLE COMMUNITY YMCA • OCTORARA Y PROGRAM CENTER OSCAR LASKO YMCA AND CHILDCARE CENTER UPPER MAIN LINE YMCA • WEST CHESTER AREA YMCA

MARCH 2019

CAMP

VISIT US AT FCSprograms.org MetroKids.com 19

Camp Directory

Riverbend Exploration Day Camp 1950 Spring Mill Rd. Gladwyne, PA 610-527-5234 Riverbendeec.org

DAY Riverbend’s camp is the perfect place for the science and nature lover in your family! Riverbend campers will embark on outdoor adventures that spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and inspire scientific investigation and discovery. Professional staff will introduce your child to the many wonders of the natural world through exploration, hands-on activities, hikes, science experiments, and much more. Weekly sessions, from June 10th to August 30th, are available for children ages 3-11. In addition to our traditional Exploration Camps, adventure-packed Navigator Camps are also offered for ages 10-13. New for 2019, Riverbend is offering Navigators Leadership Academy for kids ages 11-14. For more information, please visit our website. CIT

Summer Dance Camps at Pottstown Dance Theatre 72 W. Main St., Pottstown, PA 610-323-2569 Michelle@pottstowndance.com Pottstowndance.com

DAY Dance Camps for ages three to adult. Learn from a degreed international faculty. Call for details about the themes we offer. Study at the only dance school in the region chosen to perform in London during the 2012 Olympic Games!

Ursinus College Summerburst Camps 601 East Main St. Collegeville, PA ursinus.edu/summer/

DAY Fun, safe and challenging collegiate-level instruction at Ursinus College’s exceptional athletic facilities. We place an emphasis on fundamentals, skill development, and team play for beginners through advanced players in 15 different sports. Plus, unique academic enrichment programs taught by area experts

Early Childhood Environments 762 S. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19146 215-380-6633

DAY Early Childhood Environments Bi-lingual Art and Academic Enrichment Camp welcomes campers ages 3-11 from all over to join the fun. Our camp offers a unique blend of fun hands-on art and learning activities that stimulate growth and creativity. Each week children learn about new artists and explore distant lands and a variety of cultures through their art and cooking activities. They work on 3-D art projects that reflect world cultures and the diversity of our planet and learn new techniques in painting, drawing, and sculpting with clay, as well as music and dance! Campers take weekly field trips to museums and cultural institutions, bowling and the aquarium! We provide breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack.

PHILADELPHIA

NEW Franklin Institute Camp 222 North 20th St., Philadelphia PA 19103 https://www.fi.edu/summer-camp/

DAY Discovery Camp combines the best of your favorite visit to The Franklin Institute with the joy and adventures of summer camp. Activities include museum exploration, theater shows, science projects, games, and workshops, all while fostering a CIT community of humans who love science!

Gwendolyn Bye Dance Center 3611 Lancaster Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19104 215-222-7633 Gbyedance.org

DAY, PROGRAM June 24-Aug. 2, 2019. Performing Arts Summer Camp: A fun program for beginner and intermediate students (boys & girls, 6-12); ballet, modern, tap, jazz, hip-hop, singing & acting, culminating in a performance (6 weeks). Ballet & Dance Intensive: Upper-level, comprehensive training for intermediate to advanced-level students (boys & girls, 11-17) in ballet, pointe, modern & jazz, culminating in a performance (5 weeks).

NEW PAFA Summer Art Camp

DAY, PROGRAM Make friends, build artmaking skills and have fun at PAFA’s Art Camp, located two blocks from City Hall. We host ages 4-15 in art studio for weekly sessions covering drawing, painting, printmaking, comics’ art, and animation with highly trained instructors.

Penn Charter Summer Camps 3000 W. School House Ln. Philadelphia, PA 19144 215-844-3460 summercamps@ penncharter.com Penncharter.com/ summercamp

DAY Mix and match more than 20 camps. Day, Sports, Performing Arts, Science, Electronic Music, Drone, Robotics, Rocketry, Handwork Studio, Dance, Pottery, Chess, MineCraft, Girls Empowerment, Tennis, Squash, Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling. Experience everything! Lunch available. CIT

128 N. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19102 artcamp@pafa.org pafa.org/camp

Penn Museum Anthropologists in the Making and Junior Anthropologists Summer Camps 3260 South St. Philadelphia, PA 19104 summercamp@pennmuseum.org penn.museum/camp

DAY Journey through time and across continents without leaving Philadelphia! During summer 2019, Penn Museum will offer two distinct summer camp programs that will encourage children to discover world cultures – both past and present – through gallery tours, art-making, games & theatrics and music & dance guest performances.

Penn Tennis Camp / Wilson Collegiate Tennis Camps 240 S. 31st St. Philadelphia, PA 19104 Wilsontenniscamps.com/penn

DAY Long regarded as one of the most popular tennis camps in the nation, the Penn camp, in partnership with Wilson Collegiate Tennis Camps, will host 10 weeks of camp this summer. By offering full day and half day options, there is an appropriate camp option for boys and girls ages 3-18 of all skill levels. Brand New in 2019, we will be offering 1 week overnight camp that promises to be quite popular.

Society Hill Synagogue 418 Spruce St. Philadelphia, PA 19106 soz@societyhillsynagogue.org societyhillsynagogue.org/ playschool

DAY Our summer camp curriculum wonderfully blends hands-on exploration, literacy and language acquisition, thematic art projects, outdoor play, and splash zone thrills for children ages 2-5. Flexible 8-week program June 3-July 26, with two week-long specialty camps July 29-August 9.

OUTLYING AREAS - PENNSYLVANIA Adventure Camp at Roundtop Mountain Resort 925 Roundtop Rd. Lewisberry, PA 717-432-9631 skiroundtop@skiroundtop.com Roundtopmountainresort.com/ camps/summer-adventure-camps

DAY 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 1200 acre mountain property. Day and residential camps available. Residential housing is in air-conditioned mountain chalets CIT

Camp Lee Mar 450 Rte. 590 Lackawaxen, PA 215-658-1708 ari@leemar.com Leemar.com

RESIDENTIAL Camp for children & teenagers with mild to moderate developmental challenges. A structured environment, individual attention & guidance are emphasized at all times. Traditional camp activities plus academics, speech & language therapy, music, arts & crafts, daily living skills and much more. We also have therapeutic horseback riding & overnight trips. Heated pool, modern facilities & air-conditioned buildings (including bunks). ACA SN

Mercersburg Academy Summer Programs Mercersburg, PA 717-328-6225 summerprograms@mercersburg.edu Mercersburgsummer.com

DAY Mercersburg Summer is all about fun. Nestled in the mountains of south-central Pennsylvania, Mercersburg Academy’s beautiful campus provides the perfect setting for a wide range of opportunities for learning, personal growth, and most importantly, fun. Each summer, participants from all over the world take part in an array of programs, ranging from Mercersburg Adventure Camp to various Enrichment, Arts, and Sports Camp.

Science Camp Watonka PO Box 127 Hawley, PA 570-857-1401 mail@watonka.com Watonka.com

RESIDENTIAL For boys 8-16. Camper-selected program includes hands-on laboratory experiences in astronomy, biology, chemistry, computers, electronics, earth science, physics and robotics. A wide range of other activities includes ropes, archery, climbing, woodworking, sailing, rocketry, mini-bike riding, sports, windsurfing & trips. 2-, 4-, 6- & 8-week sessions available. ACA CIT SN

Science Explorers 110 West Wyomissing Ave. Mohnton, PA 877-870-9517 scienceexplorers.com

DAY Science Explorers is an innovative, hands-on science company for children ages 4-11 to become engaged in the wonders of science. Science Explorers week long summer camp will make science cool and exciting through our interactive, hands-on format. Ever dissect a shark? What about a squid? Made glowing slime? Examined a real heart? Built and launched your own rocket? Lifted a person using nothing but air? These are some of the awesome experiments that make our summer camps so popular. Nominated for Educator of the Year--TWICE!

YMCA Camp Conrad Weiser 201 Cushion Peak Rd. Wernersville, PA 610-670-2267 SMYMCA.org

RESIDENTIAL, OVERNIGHT We welcome you to our 600 mountain top acres in Berks County, Pennsylvania. While we offer a variety of session lengths, most campers come for 2-or 4-week sessions. We are a coed program for campers 7-16 years old. Traditional camp programs including horseback riding, swimming, boating, athletics, target sports, mountain biking, creative arts, nature, adventure & teen leadership. We also offer a variety of specialty theme camps, adventure trips and international trips. We can’t wait to see you on the mountain! ACA

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

20 MetroKids.com

CAMP

MARCH 2019

SUMMER EDUCATION CAMPS JUNE, JULY AND AUGUST 2019 Temple University Summer Camps Ages 8 to 17

Open House- March 16, April 13 and May 18

Choose from two Temple locations. Popular camps include: Ambler Campus Robotics & Gamemaker Film Design and Screenwriting Cartooning and Drawing Computer Gaming and Graphics

• Horseback Riding • Swim Lessons Call today 856-262-3900 • Over 20 Sports For registration rates and fees including Golf and Archery tallpinesdaycamp.com • Dual Zip Lines & email: fun@tallpinesdaycamp.com Rope Courses • Dance & Performing Arts 1349 Sykesville Road, Williamstown, NJ08094 • Crafts and Woodworking Lunch and snack provided. Nut-free facility. I' I · Extended Care Delaware Valley's Premier Day Camp , •rtJ.n. ·Teen travel program StJ./YI • A/C Buildings New Family and Sibling Discounts · A/CTransportation

Main Campus Temple Summer Academy College 101 Debate for Teens: The Art of Arguing Computer Gaming and Graphics

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To receive a camp brochure, call 267-468-8500, or visit temple.edu/summer/youthprograms.

Accredited by the American Camp Association. State Certified.

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PENN TENNIS CAMP

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

PHILADELPHIA. PA

PENNLEARNING TENNISFOR CAMP HIGHER YOUR GAME

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

The camp where young players fulfill their potential with instruction from the nation's top college coaches.

PHILADELPHIA. PA

PENN TENNIS CAMP WEEK 1: JUNE 10-14 UNIVERSITY OFWEEK PENNSYLVANIA HIGHER LEARNING FOR YOUR GAME 2: JUNE 17-21 PHILADELPHIA. PA young The camp where their potential WEEK players 3: JUNEfulfill 24-28 with instruction from the4:nation's top college coaches. WEEK JULY 1-5* HIGHER LEARNING FOR YOUR GAME 2019 DATES WEEK 5: JULY 8-12 The camp where young players their potential WEEKfulfill 6: JULY 15-19 1:22-26 JUNE with instruction from the nation'sWEEK college coaches.10-14 WEEK 7:topJULY WEEK JUNE217-21 WEEK 8: JULY2: 29-AUG 3: JUNE 24-28 WEEK 9: 1:WEEK JUNE 10-14 AUG 5-9 � WEEK 2: JUNE4: 17-21 WEEK JULY 1-5* WEEK 3: JUNE5: 24-28 2019 DATES WEEK JULY 8-12 WEEK 4: JULY6: 1-5* WEEK JULY 15-19 2019 DATES WILSON COLLEGIATE TENNIS CAMP I PENN TENNIS WEEK 5:CAMP JULY 8-12 WEEK 7: JULY 22-26 WEEK 6: JULY 15-19 www.wilsontenniscamps.com/penn/ WEEK JULY 29-AUG 2 WEEK 7: JULY 8: 22-26 AUG 5-9 JULY9: 29-AUG 2 � WEEK 8:WEEK WEEK 9: AUG 5-9 �

WILSON TENNIS CAMP I PENN TENNIS WILSON COLLEGIATE COLLEGIATE TENNIS CAMP I PENN TENNIS CAMP CAMP www.wilsontenniscamps.com/penn/ www.wilsontenniscamps.com/penn/

MARCH 2019

CAMP

MetroKids.com 21 WILSON COLLEGIA

www.wils

Camp Directory OUTLYING AREAS - OTHER TRAVEL, RESIDENTIAL We are a camp based in the Mayan Riviera/Cancun. With us, you’ll get to zip-line through the jungle, swim with turtles, scuba-dive in crystal clear waters, swim in the underground rivers of XCARET, train dolphins, feed monkeys and play with macaws, sail the beautiful Caribbean, and enjoy a whole day at the XEL-HA, XENSES, and XPLORE parks. Spend quality time with your counselor, play night games, sing silly songs around a bonfire, and eat delicious food!

Camp Caribbean Multiple Locations in Mexico Info@grupoeduplay.com Campeduplay.com

CCArts Fine & Performing Arts Camp 410 Upper Snuff Mill Row Yorklyn, DE 302-239-2434 nschmid@ccarts.org; ccarts.org

DAY A half or full day camp with before and after care offering flexibility for busy summer schedules. Professional teaching artists offer painting, drawing, ceramics, fibers, photography, printmaking, mixed media, theater and music. Portfolio prep and camps for older teens also.

Centreville Layton School Summer Program 6201 Kennett Pike Centreville, DE 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 three to eighteen. Camp runs from June 25-July 27. SN

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 various disabilities including developmental, CP, MD, MS, orthopedic impairments and other disabilities. Special Autism weeks with 1:1 counseling. Wall climbing, high ropes, zip-lining, pool, canoeing & kayaking horseback riding plus other activities. Nurses on staff 24/7. We also have off season respite weekends for children and adults. In addition we also have travel trips for adults over age 18. All facilities are new including our 12,000 square foot activity center, new health center, expanded dining hall, and four new cabins. ACA, SN

Echo Hill Camp 13655 Bloomingneck Rd. Worton, MD 410-348-5303 EchoHillCamp.com

RESIDENTIAL Echo Hill Camp on the Chesapeake Bay is a traditional, sleep-away summer camp with 2- to 8- week sessions. Non-competitive, free-choice program. Waterskiing, sailing, wakeboarding, crabbing, ropes course, nature, art and much more! ACA

Liberty Lake Day Camp 1195 Florence-Columbus Rd. Bordentown, NJ, 08505 609-499-7820 Libertylakedaycamp.com

DAY Liberty Lake Day Camp teaches life skills to inspire young people to change the world. Make new friends and create lasting summer memories! On 60 magnificent shady acres, campers choose their own schedules through the “Freedom of Choice” elective program - over 60 activities! Serving Phila/ Lower Bucks. ACA

Pilot Summer Camp The Pilot School, 208 Woodlawn Rd. Wilmington, DE cshivone@pilotschool.org Pilotschool.org

DAY Children ages 5-12 will benefit from our multi-sensory approach, which offers them the opportunity to engage in activities while learning. This fun, hands-on camp focuses on special skills, team building, science experiments and nature while integrating reading and math.

Tall Pines Day Camp 1349 Sykesville Rd. Williamstown, NJ 856-262-3900 fun@tallpinesdaycamp.com Tallpinesdaycamp.com

DAY Serving Center City/South Jersey/Shore Points. State certified & accredited by ACA. 66 acres include 45,000 -sq. ft. of A/C indoor space, climbing tower, pedal karts, gymnastics, driving range, horseback riding, 8,500-sq. ft. of pools, soccer & baseball fields, hockey, basketball, tennis courts, arts & music programs. Open house on Saturdays, from 12-3 PM, March 16th, April 21st and May 18th. ACA

Tomato Patch @ Kelsey Theatre 1200 Old Trenton Rd. West Windsor, NJ 609-570-3566 projects@mccc.edu kelseyatmccc.org/tomato_patch.shtml

DAY Tomato Patch Visual and Performing Arts Workshops, held annually on the West Windsor Campus of Mercer County Community College, is one of the longest-running and most successful multi-disciplinary summer arts programs in central New Jersey. Students spend several weeks of their summer exploring the visual arts, dance, theater, and vocal music under the guidance of a highly qualified staff of teaching professional artists.

Whale Camp at the Fundy Marine Institute Grand Manan Island New Brunswick, Canada 888-54-WHALE info@whalecamp.com WhaleCamp.com

RESIDENTIAL 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 & college credits.

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

YMCA CAMP CONRAD WEISER THE WAY THE WORLD SHOULD BE Resident Camp for Boys and Girls 7-17. Fees Starting at $500 a week. Traditional Camps, Riding Camps, Theme Camps, Adventure Camps, Teen Leadership Programs, International Travel

SMYMCA.ORG or 610.670.CAMP 22 MetroKids.com

CAMP

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OPEN OpenHOUSE: House:

Sunday, March 3rd February 2-4 pm 2-4 7, pm

RAMAH DAY CAMP PreK to 7th grade, 8-10th grade (CITs)

215-885-8556 | ramahdaycamp.org 7601 Old York Rd., Elkins Park

MetroKids.com

smart. local. parenting.

MARCH 2019

Summer Camp

EXCEPTIONAL educators. EMPOWERED students.

at the School in Rose Valley Open House! Sat., March 9 10am–12noon

Providing a comprehensive academic program for children in grades 1-8 who have been identified as having dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning differences.

theschoolinrosevalley.org

BENCHMARK CAMP: July 1 to August 2 BRAND NEW Lab Innovation e Now Op n!

For children entering grades 1-6

SET UP A PRIVATE VISIT

SUMMER ART CAMP 2019

Call Linda Lattif at 610-565-3741.

610-565-3741 • BenchmarkSchool.org

Summer STEM Camps For ages 7-11 • Junior camps for ages 4-6

Flourtown Swim Club and Flourtown

New

locations added daily! Build and launch your own rocket! Mix up chemistry potions! Make magnetic slime! Celebrating Make a model lung! 20 Years! Dissect a squid!

Camp for ages 4 - 15 June 24 - August 9 pafa.org/camp

Summer Day Swim ClubCamp and Flourtown If it’s not fun, we’re not doing it!

Summer Swim Day ClubCamp and

Traditional Summer Day Camp Boys and Girls Ages 4-14

www.ScienceExplorers.com

Summer Day Camp

Traditional Summer Day Camp Boys and Girls Ages 4-14

CIT Program Extended care both AM and PM CIT Program Extended care both AM and PM

10-Week Program 23 Traditional Summer Day Camp • June CIT17-Aug. Program Boys and Girls Ages 4-14 Extended care both AM and PM

OPEN HOUSE DATE: Saturday, March 16th • 10am-2pm Swim Lessons • Recreational Swimming • Archery • Golf ACTIVITIES •• Daily Baseball/Softball • Soccer • Tennis • Basketball • Lacrosse INCLUDE.... • Field Hockey • Volleyball • Arts & Crafts • Music • Dance For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director • Culinary Arts • GaGa Pit • Sustainable Gardening • Tutoring Services dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director

MetroKids.com MARCH 2019

dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net Bethlehem Pike,Flourtown, Flourtown, PA • 215-836-1429 Bethlehem Pike, PA • 215-836-1429 smart. 15281528 1528 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, PA • 215-836-1429 (behind the Flourtown Fire Co.) local. (behind the Flourtown Fire Co.) (behind the Flourtown Fire Co.) parenting. www.flourtownswimclub.net www.flourtownswimclub.net www.flourtownswimclub.net

MetroKids.com 23

Family Fun

Cultivate Creativity

Art classes and workshops for teens THE ‘BURBS

Abington Art Center, Jenkintown

Classes for ages 10-15 show aspiring creators new ways to express themselves through jewelry making, clay, drawing and STEAM, which incorporates 3D printing and other tech.

Main Line Art Center, Haverford

PHILADELPHIA

Fabric Workshop and Museum In addition to teen workshops, the highschool apprentice-training program lets kids learn from the pros and design their own hand-screenprinted textiles while boosting entrepreneurial and collaborative skills.

Fleisher Art Memorial Open to ages 5-18, the Saturday Young Artists Program offers courses in an array of media, from digital photography, silkscreen and printmaking to fiber arts, drawing & painting and sculpture. Concurrent adult classes allow parents to tap into their creativity, too.

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Saturday classes, week-long summer intensives and pre-college programs give high schoolers the opportunity to build a portfolio and hone their talent with guidance from faculty.

Philadelphia Museum of Art The Teen Sketch Club — open to Philadelphia public-school students — preps kids for a career in visual or graphic arts while they explore architecture, contour drawing, landscape and the human figure.

24 MetroKids.com

Got a comics fan in the family? Let his or her geek flag fly during courses for middle and high schoolers that delve into video games, graphic novels and animation. Or opt for traditional faves like drawing & painting and wheel throwing. The center also hosts programming for teens with special needs.

Wayne Art Center, Wayne Still-life and figure drawing, photography, fashion and oil painting are just a few of the classes offered here. On view March 16-April 13, the Teen Works exhibit displays creations by budding artists from Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties.

Sunday Fun-days

These spots offer free programming for the whole family on select Sundays. The Barnes Foundation, Phila. First Sunday Family Day events feature themed activities and performances. Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford Hands-on fun is the mantra of First Sundays for Families, where art projects, live music and demos are all part of the lineup. Michener Art Museum, Doylestown Visual artists lead workshops while performers entertain via music, puppetry and storytelling during Unplugged Sundays. Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. The weekly Family Arts Academy focuses on a different medium each session. Upcoming projects feature collages, fused plastic and filmmaking.

Free Museum Access for Teens Philadelphia residents ages 14-19 can sign up for the free STAMP (Students at Museums in Philly) pass that grants complimentary admission to 24 of the city’s top venues and attractions, as well as special events throughout the year. Participating art museums and centers include: The Barnes Foundation Institute of Contemporary Art La Salle University Art Museum Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Philadelphia Museum of Art

Log on to MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

MARCH 2019

BE in the KNOW! Sign up for

FAIRY TALES TO NURSERY RHYMES The Droller Collection of Picture Book Art

enewsletters GIVEAWAYS

FAMILY FUN SPECIAL OFFERS SPECIAL NEEDS EVENTS

and MORE!

MetroKids.com/enews SUNDAYS on STAGE A series of free performances for children, families, and adults

Climb into the magical world of children’s literature through this stunning collection of more than 100 original and imaginative illustrations. MARCH 2 – MAY 12, 2019 This exhibition as organized by The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, Amherst, Massachusetts. This exhibition is made possible in Delaware by the Edgar A. Thronson Foundation Illustration Exhibition Fund and the Hallie Tybout Exhibition Fund. Additional support was provided, 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. Image: “‘Who are you?’ said the caterpillar,” 1983, Illustration for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (Victor Gollancz Ltd, 1984). Justin Todd (born 1932). Gouache on illustration board, 11 3/8 x 8 1/2 inches. Collection of Michael and Esther Droller. © 1984 Justin Todd.

2301 Kentmere Pkwy | Wilmington, DE | 302.571.9590 | delart.org WINTER/SPRING

2019

SELECT SUNDAYS AT 2:00

Admission is

FREE!

Montgomery Auditorium Parkway Central Library 1901 Vine Street freelibrary.org | 215.686.5372

Series funded by the Philadelphia City Institute Board of Managers.

Storybook Musical Theatre

March 19 - 31, 2019 at Gratz College Theater 7605 Old York Road

MetroKids.com MARCH 2019

Children: $14 Adults: $16 For Reserv. & Info: 215-659-8550 www.storybookmusical.org MetroKids.com 25

Family Fun

Fun is in full bloom at the Philadelphia Flower Show, March 2-10.

MARCH

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR

Special needs event

Paleopalooza

2 Saturday

Editor's Pick

$ = $1-$5; $$ = $6-$10; $$$ = $11-$19; $$$$ = $20 & up

1 Friday

Season Opening at Franklin Square, Phila. FREE

2 Saturday

Bank of America Museums on Us, Phila. Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders get access to participating venues including the African American Museum in Philadelphia, Brandywine River Museum of Art, Museum of the American Revolution and the National Museum of American Jewish History. FREE

Harlem Globetrotters

3 Sunday

Orienteering Meet

10 Sunday

26 MetroKids.com

3 Sunday

Artmaking and Storytelling at the Woodmere Art Museum, Phila. FREE Bank of America Museums on Us, Phila. See March 2. FREE Family Arts Academy: Portrait Blueprints at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make mixed-media portraits from unusual materials. FREE

Family Dance Party at Media Borough Hall, Media. Grab an instrument to recreate rock classics. $

First Sunday Family Day: More Than Meets the Eye at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Check out student artwork and solve a math mystery in the galleries. FREE

Paleopalooza at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Explore the world of dinosaurs while you view a rarely seen fossil collection, watch presentations by paleontologists, meet reptiles and get hands-on at learning stations. $$$

First Sunday for Families: Magic at Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. Discover the secrets artists use to make items appear real, create optical illusions and watch a magic show. FREE

Philadelphia Flower Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Phila. Themed “Flower Power,” this year’s event features workshops and demos, make-and-take activities and the kid-favorite Butterflies Live! exhibit. Through March 10. $$$$

Harlem Globetrotters at the Wells Fargo Center, Phila. $$$$

Read Across America at the Elmwood Park Zoo, Norristown. Activities include author readings, a book fair and animal meet-and-greets. $$$

Lila Liberty's Hero Quest at the National Liberty Museum, Phila. Embark on a scavenger hunt alongside the young superhero. $$ Once Upon a Time Family Festival at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Festivities include book making and a performance by the Pennsylvania Ballet II. Pay what you wish

MARCH 2019

HIDDEN HOLIDAY

March is Women’s History Month! Celebrate the important occasion with an array of activities at Philly’s National Constitution Center all month. Visitors watch a show that tells the story of the women’s suffrage movement through a reimagined Lady Gaga tune, discover defining moments in women’s history and try a giant board-game activity. Touch the Future: Juried High School Art Show at Arcadia University, Glenside. Through March 28. FREE Paleopalooza at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. See March 2. $$$ Umbrella Adventure at Liberty Lands Park, Phila. Kids decorate an umbrella, play games and explore the grounds. $$$ Wildlife in Montgomery County at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. FREE Winterfest Closing Day at Blue Cross RiverRink, Phila. Take one more whirl around the ice-skating rink before it closes for the season. $$

4 Monday

Scout Day: Girl Scouts of the USA at the National Constitution Center, Phila. Programs cover the basics of government, elections and the jury system, with activities geared toward scout requirements. $$$

5 Tuesday

Morning Bird Walk at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. FREE

7 Thursday

Children's Nature Series: Rocks for Tots at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Little ones find out what rocks are made of and how they’re formed, then make a craft. $ General Howe's Soiree at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila. Dinner, dancing and a performance are dedicated to the preview of new exhibit The British Mistake. $$$$

8 Friday

International Gem and Jewelry Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. Browse gemstones, beads, jewelry and accessories crafted by local and international artisans. $$ Special Evening at Sam’s at Sahara Sam’s Oasis, West Berlin, NJ. Kids with special needs and their families enjoy a judgment-free evening featuring quiet rooms, modified lighting and sound, a relaxed dress code and the option to bring your own snacks. $$$

9 Saturday

ExtrABBAganza! ABBA Dance Party at the American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila. See "Parents' Night Out," left. $$$$ GiveBack Workshop at the National Liberty Museum, Phila. Projects benefit nonprofits Color a Smile and Cradles to Crayons. $$$$ International Gem and Jewelry Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. See March 8. $$ PNC Grow Up Great at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Phila. Kids are introduced to jazz and musical theatre. FREE Scout Day: Girl Scouts of the USA at the National Constitution Center, Phila. See March 4. $$$

10 Sunday

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

Time for a throwback! Let out your inner Dancing Queen during the ExtrABBAganza! ABBA Dance Party at Philly’s American Swedish Historical Museum March 9, dedicated to everyone’s favorite pop group from Stockholm. While a DJ spins the hits, you can show off your best moves, enjoy a few surprises and see which winner takes it all in the costume contest. MARCH 2019

Bucks County Wedding Show at Delaware Valley University, Doylestown. There’ll be professional-service exhibitors, giveaways, a fashion show and live entertainment. FREE Family Arts Academy: Collaged Connections at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make a masterpiece using patterns inspired by works in the galleries. FREE Orienteering Meet at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Join the Delaware Valley Orienteering Association to learn about the sport and give it a try. $$$ International Gem and Jewelry Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. See March 8. $$$

MetroKids.com 27

Family Fun

PECO Family Jams: Alebrije Animals at Philadelphia's Magic Gardens, Phila. Get inspired by a form of Mexican folk art to create colorful animal-themed works. $$ Waterways Goat Walk at Awbury Arboretum Agricultural Village, Phila. Learn about water and meet friendly goats. FREE

12 Tuesday

Stroller Tour at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. $$$

14 Thursday

Books and Boots at the Myrick Conservation Center, West Chester. Join Potter the Otter for storytime that leads to an outdoor adventure. $$ Jim West’s Aesop’s Fables at the Sellersville Theater, Sellersville. West uses puppetry to bring the popular tales to life. $$

15 Friday

23 Saturday

Hoops Madness 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy, Phila. Partake in 3-point, foul-shooting and half-court shooting contests or cheer from the sidelines. $$$ Intro to 3D Printing at the Franklin Institute, Phila. $$$$ Mommy Market and Bake Sale at Franconia Elementary School, Souderton. $ Scout Day: Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA at the National Constitution Center, Phila. Scouts learn about American history and citizenship while they work toward merit badge and adventure requirements. $$$ Trout-Fishing Program at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Find out the trout’s life cycle, different species and angling equipment and techniques. FREE

24 Sunday

Jim West’s Aesop’s Fables at the Sellersville Theater, Sellersville. See March 14. $$

Brave Space Pop-Up Circus Show at Secret Circus, Phila. Expect plenty of audience participation during this production. $$$$

Sugarloaf Crafts Festival at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. Check out custom jewelry, home furnishings, specialty food and other handmade creations. $$

Family Arts Academy: Fused Plastic at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Experiment with fused plastic to make a sculpture. FREE

16 Saturday

Girls Rally at the Community College of Philadelphia. Gather for guest speakers, giveaways and an award ceremony. FREE Jim West’s Aesop’s Fables at the Sellersville Theater, Sellersville. See March 14. $$ Night at the Museum: Myths and Legends at the Academy of Natural Science, Phila. This slumber party features a scavenger hunt, animal presentation and exhibit exploration. $$$$ Sugarloaf Crafts Festival at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. See March 16. $$

17 Sunday

Bunny/Easter Hop Adventure at Liberty Lands Park, Phila. See March 4. $$$ Celtic Concert at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. $ Family Arts Academy: Drawing in Motion at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make a series of drawings and paintings that explore simple animation methods. FREE Sugarloaf Crafts Festival at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks. See March 16. $$

18 Monday

Community Night at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

Orchid Extravaganza Closing Day at Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square. View thousands of intricate orchid arrangements for the last time this season. $$$$ Relâche Ensemble Family Concert at the Woodmere Art Museum, Phila. Enjoy works by contemporary composers and improvisations based on readings of Jerry Pinkney’s children’s books. $$$$ Sensory-friendly Sunday at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE Sensory-friendly Sunday at National Constitution Center, Phila. $$$

30 Saturday

Designer Bag Bingo at St. Maria Goretti Church, Hatfield. $$$$ Nowruz Festival at the Penn Musuem, Phila. Meaning “new day” in Persian, this ancient spring celebration features cultural performances, art projects, storytelling, workshops and a bazaar. $$$ Play-a-Palooza at Smith Memorial Playground, Phila. Enjoy nature play, performances, soccer and a PBS Kids pop-up space. $$

31 Sunday

20 Wednesday

Family Arts Academy: Continued Collages at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Use a variety of shapes and patterns to create wearable art. FREE

21 Thursday

Signs of Spring Walk at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. FREE

Full Moon Walk at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. FREE Children's Nature Series: Spring Awakening at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Celebrate the season with stories, crafts and outdoor fun. $

24 Friday

Philadelphia Youth Orchestra Showcase at Verizon Hall, Phila. $$$$

28 MetroKids.com

Family Circus Festival at the Woodmere Art Museum, Phila. Experience mime artists, jugglers, aerialists and trapeze and tightwire performances, then learn tips and tricks from the pros. $

Philadelphia Love Run at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Benefits local nonprofit Legacy of Hope’s mission to help find a cure for cancer. $$$$ Log on to MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

MARCH 2019

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 Serv. DE*: Licensed: Dept. of Education DYF: Licensed: Dept. of Youth & Family Serv.

NAEYC: Accredited by National Association of Education of Young Children PAIS: Accredited by PA Assoc. of Independent Schools MSCES: Accredited by Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools AMS: Accredited by American Montessori Society

* Note: DHS License: requires annual on-site visits. DE License: 20% of all facilities are inspected annually.

MULTIPLE SITES

SWARTHMORE/MEDIA, DELAWARE COUNTY

FEDERATION EARLY LEARNING SERVICES (FELS) 10700 Jamison Ave., Phila., PA 215-676-7550 • Ages: 6 wks. – 12 yrs. • Hours: 6am – 6pm Buerger Early Learning Center: 619 N. Broad St., Phila.; 267-535-2643 Kehillah Early Learning Center: 2 Chester Rd., Wallingford; 610-872-0400 Kol Ami Early Learning Center: 8201 High School Rd., Elkins Park; 215-635-4180 K’tonton Early Learning Center: 715 Paxon Hollow Rd., Broomall; 610-325-4831 Ohev Shalom Early Learning Center: 944 Second Street Pk., Richboro; 215-322-9595 Lassin Early Learning Center: 10800 Jamison Ave., Phila.; 215-677-7191 Lokoﬀ Early Learning Center: 1920 Skippack Pk., Blue Bell; 215-643-0110 Gutman Early Learning Center: 7500 West Ave., Melrose Park; 215-635-5570 Paley Early Learning Center: 2199 Strahle St., Phila.; 215-725-8930 105 years of experience providing high-quality programs for children ages 6 weeks – 12 years from diverse economic, religious and racial backgrounds. Built on a foundation of Jewish values - NAEYC & Keystone Stars accredited. AY, FY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS*, NAEYC

SCHOOL IN ROSE VALLEY, THE 20 School Ln., Rose Valley, PA • 610-566-1088 TheSchoolinRoseValley.org • Ages: Preschool-Grade 6 • Hours: 7:30am-6pm With over 80 years of experience, The School in Rose Valley offers a progressive, Preschool – 6th Grade program committed to the development of the whole child. Full and part time enrollment options are available for Preschool and Kindergarten students. Weekly special subjects include Woodshop, Spanish, Science, Art, Music and Sports. SRV is located on a beautiful 9.5 acre campus just minutes from Media, PA. AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, TP, PAIS

HEY DIDDLE DIDDLE DAY SCHOOL, INC. 520 Bethlehem Pike, Ft. Washington, PA 215-654-9955 • HeyDiddleDiddleDaySchool.net LITTLE DIDDLE PRESCHOOL 440 Bethlehem Pike, Ft. Washington, PA 215-565-5866 • LittleDiddlePreschool.net • Ages: 6 wks.-PreK • Hours: 7am-6pm Our school offers full-day programs. Our staff members are well-educated and experienced which enables us to give the students an educational program in a caring, nurturing environment. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS, DE

BUCKS COUNTY BRIGHT BEGINNERS ACADEMY 800 Clarmont Ave., Suite A, Bensalem, PA 19020 • 267-5207200 Brightbeginnersacademy.com • Ages: 6 wks. to 6 yrs. • Hours: 6:45am - 6pm Our preschool is designed to meet the needs of every child in a developmentally inclusive setting. Our program encourages progress at a child’s own pace and according to individual needs and abilities. Play-based learning centers for math, science, dramatic play, blocks, music, creative art and technology provide opportunities to balance and stimulate both shared and independent learning experiences. Private pay and subsidized funding accepted, infant and toddler care available. Parent volunteer opportunities available. FY, AY, SP, DA, SN, DHS*, DE TREVOSE DAY SCHOOL / NESHAMINY MONTESSORI 4951 Central Ave., Trevose, PA 19053 215–355-4373 • trevosedayschool.org • neshaminymontessori.org • Ages: 2.5-10 yrs. Hours: 7am-6pm Established in 1970, our programs excel at offering state-of-the-art education in a community-minded environment. We combine interactive technology, the visual and performing arts and scientific exploration with a sustainable hands-on approach that values our planet and nurtures curiosity. Our teachers are Pennsylvania Certified Early Childhood and Elementary Education Teachers. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, TP, SN, AMS

CHESTER COUNTY KIMBERTON WALDORF SCHOOL 410 W. Seven Stars Rd. Kimberton, PA 610-933-3635 • Ages: PreK- 12th grade • Hours: 8am-3:15pm At Kimberton Waldorf School, learning is a process of discovery that engages the whole human being. Instead of passively receiving information, our students are involved in a dynamic process of exploration and experience, both of the world and of themselves. Emphasis on the breadth of skills and opportunities that we value in childhood and in adulthood provides a reminder that education needs to be designed to produce holistically developed learners who are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of life in the 21st century. We develop analytical thinkers with imaginative minds capable of producing life-changing ideas. Our students build capacities and skills of creativity, resourcefulness, collaboration, perseverance, integrity, and ethical understanding. How we teach this matters. Every aspect of Waldorf education is intentional and planned. Why we teach this way matters. At each stage of child development, students are challenged, capacities are built, foundations are set, and opportunities are given. When we teach things matters.

MAIN LINE, DELAWARE COUNTY FRIENDS SCHOOL HAVERFORD 851 Buck Lane, Haverford, PA 19041 • 610-642-2334 Friendshaverford.org • Ages: Nursery through 8th Grade • Hours: 8:00am - 2:45pm Friends School Haverford, a co-ed Quaker school, promotes academic scholarship, creativity, respect, integrity, and self-awareness with a commitment to creating a culture and kindness. Our unique hands-on, minds-on curriculum encourages and celebrates curiosity, imagination, and exploration. Offering a full-day kindergarten program with full- and half-day nursery school, preschool, and pre-k options. AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, PAIS

MARCH 2019

LIGHTBRIDGE ACADEMY OF GARNET VALLEY 1363 Naamans Creek Rd., Garnet Valley, PA 610-364-2000 • lightbridgeacademy.com/locations/Garnet-Valley-PA Ages: 6 wks. – 5 yrs. • Hours: 6:30 am – 6:30 pm Lightbridge Academy provides a high-quality educational program along with nurturing care while also supporting the needs of busy parents. Our state-ofthe-art facility offers innovative technology. Working families love the extended hours of 6:30 am-6:30 pm. AY, SP, BS, AS, SN, TP, MP, DA, DHS*

JENKINTOWN, MONTGOMERY COUNTY ABINGTON FRIENDS 575 Washington Ln., Jenkintown, PA 215-886-4350 • AbingtonFriends.net • Ages: 3 yrs.-K Hours: 8am-3pm w/ an extended-day option Our lower school early childhood program values and preserves childhood, building on the excitement and curiosity that children bring to their first school experience. Located on our beautiful 50-acre campus, our emergent curriculum program is designed to support your child’s developing independence. AY, SP, BS, AS, DHS, DE, NAEYC, PAIS

LAFAYETTE HILL, MONTGOMERY COUNTY MIQUON SCHOOL, THE 2025 Harts Lane, Conshohocken, PA 610-828-1231 • Miquon.org • Ages: 3 yrs.-12 yrs. • Hours: 8:30am-3pm Located on a wooded 11-acre campus just outside Northwest Philadelphia, Miquon is a co-educational day school offering Progressive education for children in Nursery (age three) through Sixth Grade. Our Nursery program offers full-day, 3-day, 4-day schedules and includes art, music, science, physical education and library. Miquon teachers provide a positive and nurturing environment for children to learn through play while meeting their social, emotional, cognitive and physical needs. Snacks provided. Optional van service available. AY, SP, BS, AS, PAIS

MAIN LINE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY BALA HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL 27 Conshohocken State Rd., Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-664-6767 • BalaHouse.org • Ages: 3 yrs.-6 yrs. • Hours: 8am-6pm Mixed-age classes, for ages 3 - 6 yrs., are led by sensitive, nurturing and highly qualified teachers who offer gentle guidance in an atmosphere of freedom, warmth and trust. Flexible schedules, convenient hours (7:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.) and three-, four-, and five-day afternoon class options are available. Art, music, gymnastics, kindergarten Spanish classes, extended care, summer camp round out our program. Some tuition assistance is available. Embracing diversity since 1969. AY, SP, DHS, DE CHILDREN’S SCHOOL AT ST. JOHN’S, THE 404 Levering Mill Rd., Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-664-4588 • Childrens-school.org • Ages: 3 mos.-K • Hours: 7am-6pm We offer a warm and creative learning environment where everyone has a “hands on” approach to learning. Our developmental approach includes music, Spanish and Tumbling Tots, Pre-K follows the Letter People Curriculum and Handwriting without Tears. Subsidized funding from the state accepted. 4-star facility with Keystone Stars. FY, SP, BS, AS, SN, DHS, DE, NAEYC

FRENCH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF PHILADELPHIA 150 N. Highland Ave., Bala Cynwyd, PA • 610-667-1284 frenchschoolphila.org • Ages: 3 yrs.-Grade 8 • Hours: 7:30am-6pm The French International School of Philadelphia offers a French/English bilingual program from preschool through grade 8. Our non-French speaking students develop their verbal skills in French in the younger grades as they engage in developmentally appropriate activities. New students with no prior knowledge of French are admitted at the age of 3, 4 or 5. Extended care is provided starting at 7:30am and until 6pm. Accredited by the Middle States Association and the French Department of Education. AY, AS, BS, SP, MP, DHS, MOSES

MetroKids.com 29

Child Care & Early Education Directory

THE HAVERFORD SCHOOL 450 Lancaster Ave., Haverford, PA 19041 610-642-3020 • www.haverford.org • Ages: PreK-12 Extraordinary educators prepare boys to be future-ready in a supportive learning environment designed to bring out the best in each student. Haverford strives to develop a well-balanced boy who is a high academic performer, socially and emotionally aware, and a good citizen of the School and community. Financial aid available. SP ROBERT J. WILF PRESCHOOL AND KINDERGARTEN Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd. Wynnewood, PA 19096 610-896-7770 x118 • phillyjcc.com • Ages: 4 wks.-K2 • Hours: 8am-6pm A nurturing, child-centered environment for infants-kindergarten including gym classes, music, dance and more. We honor the uniqueness of each child, celebrating individual potential, and helping children question and discover. Teachers help children reach milestones necessary for healthy growth/ wellness. Tuition includes a family membership to the JCC. Families of all faiths welcome. Accredited by PA State Board of Private Schools. AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS* TEMPLE BETH HILLEL – BETH EL EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 1001 Remington Rd., Wynnewood, PA • 610-649-2277 Tabber.org • Ages: 3 mos.-Kindergarten • Hours: 9am-3pm Programs for children 3 months to kindergarten. Working families love the 7:30am Early Care and 6:00pm Late Care. Special needs children welcome! AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DHS, DE WALDRON MERCY ACADEMY 513 Montgomery Ave., Merion Station, PA 19066 610-664-9847 • www.waldronmercy.org Ages: 3 yrs.-grade 8 • Hours: 8:15am-3pm Waldron Mercy Academy is a co-educational age 3 to grade 8 independent Catholic school, offering an innovative curriculum integrating academics, technology, arts, athletics and service, with a commitment to Mercy and service. WMA offers a Child Care Center and Montessori or PreSchool tracks. FY, AY, AS, BS, DA, DHS* THE WETHERILL SCHOOL 1321 Beaumont Dr., Gladwyne, PA 610-649-2299 • Wetherillschool.org Ages 2.7 yrs.-5 yrs. • Hours: 8:15am-3pm Seeks to create a warm, secure, first-school experience where the social, emotional, physical and cognitive development of each child is carefully nurtured. Curriculum based on Montessori, Piaget, Reggio Emilia schools. Classroom teachers supported by specialists in Music, Spanish, Creative Movement. Full or half-day Kindergarten. Licensed by State Board of Private Academic schools. AY, SP, BS, DE

CENTER CITY/SOCIETY HILL, PHILADELPHIA COUNTY BUSY BEES LEARNING CENTER INC. 601 Walnut St., #LL-25, Phila., PA 215-733-9271, 866-Be-Busy7 toll free • BusyBeesChildcare.com Ages: 6 wks.-5 yrs. • Hours: 7:30am-6pm ”What’s important to your family is just as important to ours.” A family owned and operated homey and contemporary facility in the spectacular Curtis Center overlooking Independence Park. We have a family room for nursing and visits, multicultural activities with focus on Spanish, Montessori philosophy, Parents as Partners Program, mature professional staff. Online classroom observation at Guardiancam.com. Snacks provided. FY, MP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DHS EARLY CHILDHOOD ENVIRONMENTS 762 South Broad St. Phila., PA 19146 215-844-0178 • www.ecedesigns.com • Ages: 3-12 yrs. • Hours: 6:30am-6pm EARLY CHILDHOOD ENVIRONMENTS provides a bilingual, multicultural program where children learn and develop socially and emotionally. Head start, pre-school and after-school programs are provided for children ages 3-12. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, TP, DHS* SOCIETY HILL SYNAGOGUE 418 Spruce Street Phila., PA 19106 • 215-922-6590 www.societyhillsynagogue.org • Ages: 2-5 yrs. • Hours: 7:45am-6pm We provide the best care for your child! Small class sizes provide a warm, nurturing classroom environment. Our goal is to get your child excited about learning! Age-appropriate curriculum with emphasis on play, socialization skills, as well as rich exposure to Jewish values. We are flexible to the needs of our families! Full-day service. AY, SP, BS/AS, DA, SN THE CHILDREN’S HOUSE OF PHILADELPHIA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 2611 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 215-570-0757 • www.phillychildrenshouse.com • Ages: 2.5-5 yrs. Full day and half day programs available for our Primary and Toddler programs. Primary Program: morning Montessori program includes lunch,& group play. Toddler Program: explore age appropriate Montessori materials with a Montessori trained teacher. Extended Day: after-school snack followed by Montessori-inspired playgroup: build, cook, paint, etc. before going outdoors for dismissal. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, NAYEC, AMS

WILLOW GROVE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY KIDSPARK 23 Easton Rd. (Entrance on Davisville Rd.), Willow Grove, PA 215-657-KIDS (5437) • KidsPark.com • Ages: 18 mos.-12 yrs. Hours: Mon-Thu 7am-10pm; Fri 7am-12pm; Sat 10am-12pm; Sun 1pm-6pm A family favorite for over 20 years! Hourly drop-in childcare for ages 18 months-12 yrs old. Morning Preschool, birthday parties on the weekend. Arts & crafts, games, indoor climbing structure, music & stories. Days, evenings, weekends, attend meetings, run errands, exercise... while your children are safe and having fun. We accept CCIS. FY, SP, MP, AS, DA, SN, DHS, BS

mk smart. local. parenting.

In the Historic Curtis Center 601 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106

215-733-9271

Cameras in our classrooms provide you with online observation of your child’s day! • Family Owned & Operated • Mature, Professional Staff • Literacy Based Curriculum • Multicultural Setting

www.busybeeschildcare.com

Free Intro Classes

Music, Art & Laughs!

Saturday, April 6th

DRAWINGS, SONGS & SILLINESS

MrDavid.com 610 -239-8177

Montessori Summer Camp FUN, STIMULATING, FIRST TIME CAMP EXPERIENCE! Register Now! 610-664-6767 www.balahouse.org

Bala Cynwyd, PA

Flexible Schedules for Children Ages 3 through 6 years Convenient Hours (8am - 5:45pm)

Weekly Themes, Outdoor Activities, Art, Music, Gymnastics and Soccer Shots

Licensed by the Departments of Education and Office of Child Development - Early Learning. Bala House is an equal opportunity care provider.

30 MetroKids.com

Boyer College of Music and Dance TEMPLE UNIVERSITY

Temple Center City 1515 Market Street 5th fl., Philadelphia, PA 19102 215 204-1512 musicprep@temple.edu

Noncredit.temple.edu/musicprep (Select MUSPREP0005)

PARTIES

FESTIVALS

SCHOOLS

MARCH 2019

Books

A Hundred Ways to Learn Children’s books that teach through objects in a museum, stickers, imagination and Hedy Lamarr’s inventions. By Frank Lipsius Opposites Colors ABC 123 Candlewick Press. $7.99 each. Ages 0–3 With a series of board books collectively called Early Learning at the Museum, the British Museum has found a clever way to infuse its hoard in people’s minds at home. Museum objects illustrate titles like Opposites, Colors, and numbers and letters. For big and small, it has a Japanese print of Mount Fuji on one page opposite a first-century bronze Roman mouse sculpture. It is just the kind of book to fascinate giver as much as or more than the given and justify the centralization of such treasures in London, far from where they were made and might otherwise languish barely viewed, if not destroyed. The illustrations tend to be objects more than paintings, a choice that emphasizes their three dimensionality and familiarity, despite artistic flourishes that bring out and provide an early introduction to national characteristics and a head start to art appreciation and education. Hedy Lamarr’s Double Life: Hollywood Legend and Brilliant Inventor Written by Laurie Wallmark, illustrated by Katy Wu Sterling. $16.95. Ages 5 and up Almost immediately, author Laurie Wallmark explains that Hedy Lamarr, far from being just a pretty face and competent actor, invented “the technology known as frequency-hopping spread spectrum.” So now you know, and next you find out “this is the scientific breakthrough that helps keep our cell phone messages private and defends our computers from hackers.” Not your typical picture book about an actress but of course not a typical actress, though she ended up with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame after appearing in rafts of films in the 1930s and 40s with the likes of Charles Boyer in Algiers and Clark Gable, Jimmy Stewart and Judy Garland. Her inventions included practical things like a tub ladder, a glow-in-the-dark dog collar and a flavor cube to turn water into soda. The frequency-hopping spread spectrum was a way to bounce signals off a torpedo. It fooled the enemy by sending multiple signals but guided the torpedo with only the ones that matched the sender’s. Hedy devised the system with her piano-composer collaborator George Autheil to mimic the way piano rolls can make several pianos play the same tune together. The book is breezily written to cover the whole of the subject’s vastly disparate career without getting bogged down in her boredom with Hollywood or details of the inventions, while explaining what inspired her and how she made her discoveries.

MARCH 2019

The Neighbors By Einat Tsarfati Abrams. $16.99. Ages 4-8 Living on the seventh floor of a walkup building might seem like an awful bore and chore to get home every day, but the young heroine of Einat Tsarfati’s colorful imaginative book takes leaps of fancy in speculating on what goes on behind the door on each floor. Taking clues like the smell of fish on the landing, the young trouper assumes a mermaid and pirate are behind the door, while a wheel indicates a circus troupe practicing inside, and mud means an old explorer with a pet tiger. The images are colorful and evocative, as though the rooms are aquaria of exotic beings filled to the beams with the thoughts of what they might be. Traipsing all the way up seven flights of steps could be demoralizing, but the only boredom is reaching her own apartment, where she really does know what goes on, except that when her loving parents put her to bed, what if they have their own secret life that she can dream about, just like the neighbors’? Peel and Discover Horses Peel and Discover Washington D.C. Peel and Discover Dinosaurs By Megan Hughes Butler. Illustrated by Chad Thomas Workman. $8.95 each. Ages 6 and up A profusion of stickers on the lefthand page and large scenes on the right-hand side to put them in is just half the fun of Peel and Discover Horses. The real interest in this innovative book is the facts revealed when the stickers are lifted. The information underneath is like a surprise that makes it all the more interesting and easy to remember. It is the kind of learning experience that comes naturally and encourages further exploration until so much information flows from the activity that the pages seem to fill themselves with the stickers. Some illustrations have questions you need to take up the sticker to see, like what teeth can tell you about the gender of a horse or where in Washington you can touch a moon rock (Air & Space Museum), while others provide interesting information and a big inducement to keep peeling up the stickers and learning at play. Frank Lipsius is a contributing writer to MetroKids. See our ongoing kids’ book coverage at MetroKids.com/books.

MetroKids.com 31

THE

OCK SCHOOL for Dance Education

The Rock School’s Summer 2019 progr amming immerses aspiring dancers in up to 6-weeks of intensive training plus Saturday classes for Levels 3 - 6. The Rock School offers classes in adagio, men’s & women’s variations, pointe, reper toire, injur y prevention, as well as contemporar y (with our Fast Forward Dance program), field trips & more! Children’s Dance , and Pre-K classes are also available .

Learn more by visiting our website or call today!

UMMER 2019

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