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October 2018 • free Pennsylvania

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School Without Tests? Kids Learn to Code Is Your Child Bullied? Independent PreK-8 School Survey Zero Tolerance Policy Limits

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Contents

OCTOBER 2018 • Vol. 29, No. 10

SpecialKids 10 Caught in Zero Tolerance Sponsored Content 13 A Haven from Bullies 17 The School Without Tests

Wilmington, DE

2018 Season

In This Issue 4 Teens Too Old for Trick-or-Treat? 6 Meet 2019’s CoverKids 6 Win It! 7 Mentors for New Moms 8 Students’ Occupational Hazards 12 How to Spot Bullying 14 Coding for Kids 32 MomSpeak Sneak Peak

Open Weekends Sept 22nd thru Oct 28th Sat/Sun and Columbus Day 10am - 5pm Open Fridays in October Noon to 5pm Weekday School Groups by Appointment

Conquer our Many Mazes! “Do it in the Dark! – Flashlight Corn Maze (see web for details)”

Resources 15 School Open-House Dates 16 PreK-8 Indepdent School Survey

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Moms Know

Are Teens Too Old to Trick-or-Treat?

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 Visit us online at MetroKids.com

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

They might give up too soon on a holiday for little kids and then discover that costumes are fun at any age.

Managing Editor: Dave Gilmartin, ext. 102 editor@metrokids.com

By Kimberly Yavorski Teenagers occupy a strange in-between world. No longer children, not yet adults, they are quick to abandon “childish” things and almost as quick to regret that they have done so. It is during the teen years that many of us start to wonder why we ever wished to grow up faster. Trick-or-treating is something that many kids look forward to for months. They spend hours thinking about how they want to dress, often coming up with bigger and better ideas each week leading up to Halloween. As a parent, I learned early on to not buy or make the costumes my children asked for in August or September, realizing that they would likely change their minds a few times by mid-October. It is an unheralded milestone when your child says, “Trick-or-treating is for little kids.” The first time I heard this, my insides lurched. My babies were growing up, much too fast, and they wanted to rush the process. Since I made a similar proclamation at that age and later made a game-time decision to go out on Halloween, I advised them to keep the option open. “You can dress up anyway. There may be parties, so what do you want to be?” (Full disclosure, I love Halloween and have loved making costumes for my children. Though I have lost sleep and shed tears in that last week of October, I enjoyed it when they challenged me to create something out of the ordinary.) Many adults think that once a child reaches a certain age or height that this fall ritual should end. They see trick-ortreating as an activity for small children and think that older kids are being greedy. Though candy is a motivator, most teens just want to dress up. In fact, I have seen many teens hand off their candy to younger kids while walking away from a house. Dressing up is fun. It is not often that we have the opportunity to pretend to be someone else, if only for a couple hours. For us and our neighbors, Halloween is a

Resource Editor: Cheyenne Shaffer, ext. 101 calendar@metrokids.com

4 MetroKids.com

community event, one of those days when we catch up with people a block or two over; when we see how much the kids have grown. Some parents also dress up and it is fun to see their costume choices each year. Personally, I like to see teenagers at my door on Halloween. Some years, it was the impetus that got my own kid out the door, rather than moping around at home, if only for a short time. When the kids were little, we divided tasks: my husband handed out candy at our house and I walked with the kids. At some point over the years, he decided to revive the concept of trick-or-treating, insisting that kids do a trick for a treat. Though some are surprised at this, the kids remember it and in later years have come to the door with something prepared. Teens can be shy about this, but we often have been entertained with songs, dance moves and handstands. I vividly remember the first Halloween I thought I was “too old” for trick-or-treating. I had a friend over and after the first few witches and ghouls came around, we decided we really weren’t too old. I had a pirate mask from a prior year and it wasn’t too difficult to come up with the extras to make that work. My friend lived too far away to run home for a costume, so we improvised. We grabbed a black trash bag, created leg holes and tied it loosely around her neck. I think we added crumpled newspaper to fill it out. The image of her walking down the street in this costume and her answer when people asked what she was — “A bag of trash, of course” — still makes me laugh. Today, more than ever, kids are growing up too fast. If they have a costume, no matter how lame, I’ll give them some candy (especially if they are willing to show us a trick). Kimberly Yavorski is an Ambler, PA mom of four grown children who still will create a costume when asked.

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 Interns: Ben Lowenthal

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

MetroKids® is published monthly by KidStuff Publications, Inc. © 2018 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:

OCTOBER 2018

Inspiring Today’s Learners To Be Tomorrow’s Thinkers

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October 18, 2018

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Slime & Monster Sensory Activities Potions & Dry Ice Experiments Popcorn, Apples, & Treat Bags Costume Contest

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MetroKids.com 5

MK Memo

Win It!

Meet the 2019 CoverKids Winners Wow, there are a lot of cute kids out there. Hundreds of them entered our CoverKids contest again this year. Picking the winners is never easy, but here they are: The local, adorable stars in each age group who will be on our covers through next year. Thanks to all of you who entered and all of you who voted. There is still time to vote for our Readers’ Choice contestants at MetroKids.com/ CoverKids. We will announce the winner next month. If you know a cute kid, become a fan of our Facebook page, sign up for our newsletters and check out MetroKids.com so you don’t miss out on the chance to enter the 2020 contest. 2-5 years Maggie C.

Infant - 24 mos. Madelynn W.

11-16 years Kal S.

6-10 years Liam H.

COSTUME COMPLEMENTS Any costume looks cooler with roller skates — namely, a pair of wheels from Circle Society. These skates are adjustable (sizes 12-3; 3-7) and styled in cottoncandy pink and blue (ages 5-14; $49.99). Perfect for Potterheads, add a pinch of magic to your child’s Halloween getup with Harry Potter Wizard-Training Wands belonging to Potter, Dumbledore and Voldemort. Each wand features 11 kid-appropriate spells with sound eﬀects (Jakks Pacific; $24.99, each).

SCARY

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Do you love the thrill of a good scare? Enter to win four silver passes to Eastern State Penitentiary’s infamous Terror Behind the Walls haunt in Philly. You’ll get admission to all six terrifying attractions and a quick pass to skip the line. Note: Kids younger than 7 are not permitted ($45, each). Log on to MetroKids.com/winit and enter to win your favorite prize, beginning Oct. 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.

6 MetroKids.com

OCTOBER 2018

S R O T N E M MOM Mom Matters

port for

ice and sup v d a e id v o r d mothers pst-timers. e c n ie r e p x E ﬁr

By Cheryl Maguire A woman peered into the double stroller and asked, “Are they twins?” “Yes,” I responded. “That must be difficult,” she said. I heard this comment often when my twins were first born. It was difficult. Really difficult. When I think back to that time period, two things helped me get through it. One was joining a group for moms of multiples (twins, triplets, etc.) and the other was having a mom mentor. A mom mentor is someone who is a parent to older children and is matched with a first-time mom. She provides support and feedback for the new mom. In my case, she was assigned to me through a moms’ group. She called me weekly in the beginning and then less often as I became adjusted to my new role as a mother of twins. My moms’ group is called Keeping Pace with Multiple Miracles. The mentor program began after Donna Baker and Pam Pace met in the hospital in 1994 when Donna gave birth to triplets while Pam was on bed rest, pregnant with triplets. Baker became a mentor to Pace when her triplets were born three months later. They continued to support each other and founded the nonprofit, Keeping Pace with Multiple Miracles. Their bond became similar to sisters, which is what they hope to provide for other mothers. Mentor programs can also be hospital based. Christine Sweeney founded Parent Connection in 1991 at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston, MA. It was created after OBGYN nurses noticed many of the new moms felt overwhelmed or showed symptoms of postpartum depression.

Provide a support system

Sweeney and Pace said mentor programs provide a support system for first-time mothers who might feel alone after the baby is born. If you don’t have family or friends nearby who understand your experience, it can be isolating. Even women who do have family or friends say they didn’t always feel comfortable

OCTOBER 2018

sharing the negative aspects of being a new mom with them. “We’re still supposed to subscribe to that Hallmark-approved enjoy-every-moment, romanticized view of motherhood,” says Alexis Petru, who participated in Mentoring Mothers in San Francisco, CA. She notes that there’s still a stigma for women to talk about the “dark side of parenting.” “In my mentoring group, it was the first time I could really vent about my complicated feelings of motherhood ... the anger, frustration, sadness, and loneliness that goes along with the joy and wonder of raising children.” Sweeney noticed a similar experience in her mentoring program. “Since there isn’t an agenda, expectation or judgment, women feel safe discussing their struggles,” she says. “Some women who had difficulty getting pregnant may think they can’t complain about how hard it is to be a new mom. A mentor gives the new mom a sense of relief and safety where she can talk about her feelings.”

Increase moms’ conﬁdence

Being a new mom can be overwhelming and some new moms question whether they are correctly taking care of their babies. “A lot of new moms have questions about breastfeeding. Their mentor can provide answers and give them a sense of what is normal,’’ says Sweeney. When the mentor lets the mom know that she is making progress, it increases her confidence.

Mom Mentor Groups PENNSYLVANIA Pennsylvania Mentor Pa-mentor.com/who-we-serve/childrenand-families/motherbaby-host-home/ Nuture PA Nurturepa.org/ Parent to Parent For parents of children with special needs Parenttoparent.org/

NATIONAL Happy Mama Mentors Nursefamilypartnership.org/first-time-moms/ MOMS Club Momsclub.org/ Postpartum Support International Postpartum.net/ financial issues and the mentor will help them get the resources they need,” says Pace. Sweeney says mentors are sometimes the ones who identify when a new mom is struggling with postpartum depression and will get them the proper mental health services. Mentors help care for the new moms when they are focused on caring for their newborns and that allows them to be better moms to their children. Just a weekly check-in phone call can offer a new mother the support she needs.

How to ﬁnd a mom mentor

Check with local mom groups or the hospital where you gave birth. If none are available, ask a friend or family member. Cheryl Maguire is a freelance writer.

Finds resources

A mentor can also help when a new mom might not know how to ask for help or realize she needs it. “Sometimes the new moms might have marital problems or

MetroKids.com 7

Health

‘OCCUPATIONAL

HAZARDS’

of Being a Student By Jennifer Lesser You may not think of being a student as a job, but it is. Sure, the rewards are grades, not raises. And you get promoted to the next grade, not the corner office. But it’s still a form of work, which means there are “occupational hazards.” Here are some on-the-job safety issues kids and their parents need to watch out for during the school year.

Sleep deprivation

Quite possibly the biggest occupational hazard of being a student is sleep deprivation. After a summer of erratic bedtimes, many school-aged children struggle to get back on track with their sleep routine. Sleep deprivation can lead to an array of issues, from an inability to focus in the classroom to behavior issues at home. Dr. Mary Stailey-Sims, a pediatrician practicing at Advocare Woolwich Pediatrics in Woolwich, NJ and Jefferson Health in Stratford, NJ, recommends that parents ensure their child is getting at least eight hours of sleep. “Most parents become lackadaisical about their children’s sleep patterns over the summer, so you want to be sure they’re able to get back into their regular sleep routines as soon as possible,” she says.

Illness

For many school-age children, back to school often means back to the doctor’s office. Once your child returns to a classroom with dozens of other kids — and starts sharing desks and school supplies — it should come as no surprise if

8 MetroKids.com

they end up kicking off the school year with a cold or flu. “We generally see an increase in illnesses after school starts,” says Dr. Olga Vinshtok, regional medical director for Patient First, with locations throughout South Jersey and Pennsylvania. “Kids are coming into close contact with one another and increasing the chances for illnesses to spread.” Vinshtok’s advice is simple: make sure kids wash their hands frequently. It’s also never a bad idea to toss a travel-sized hand sanitizer into your kid’s lunchbox with that PB&J.

Backaches

Physical aches and pains may crop up when your child heads back to school and often heavy backpacks are the culprit. “Every student has to carry a backpack to transport his books and personal belongings, but I’ve seen way too many kids — often as young as first or second grade — carrying an enormous backpack that’s completely inappropriate for them,” says Debra Westcott, a pediatric nurse with AtlantiCare Health Services Pediatric Care in Atlantic City, NJ. Westcott says to be sure your child’s backpack has padded straps and is the appropriate size and fit. “Those heavy backpacks can definitely cause issues down the road. Many kids end up with shoulder, neck,

and back issues.” Parents should sort through their child’s backpack on a regular basis to lighten it and ensure it’s packed correctly. “Those books and papers accumulate very quickly, so you want to encourage your child to only carry the essentials and toss whatever is no longer needed,” Stailey-Sims says. Tell them to pack textbooks and the heaviest items closest to their backs to minimize strain.

Sports injuries

Another place where your child can get injured isn’t in the classroom, but out on the field. Westcott says she often sees children with sports-related problems once the school year is in full swing, particularly ankle and knee injuries. “Some students play one sport all year, and that inevitably leads to overuse injuries,” Stailey-Sims says. “For young athletes, it’s really best to have variety; there will be less strain on the same joints, and it gives kids the opportunity to help develop new muscles to help protect against injuries.”

Too much screen time

How much screen time your child should have each day is a hot-button issue among parents. Westcott recommends school-aged children not spend more than two hours a day in front of a screen, including computers, television, phones and handheld or video games. “The overuse of devices is officially being diagnosed as an addiction and there are even studies that suggest the increase in children with ADD and ADHD is directly related to the increased time that kids spend staring at video games, televisions, and computers,” she warns. That time spent staring at a computer or bent over an iPad or phone can take its toll physically as well. “A lot of kids end up with headaches caused by eye strain, which can happen if you don’t take

continued on p. 10 OCTOBER 2018

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SpecialKids

N I P U T H E

G C U N A A C TOLER O R E Z

Get-tough policies meant to prevent violence often unecessarily ensnare students with special needs. By Lisa Lightner A few years ago in suburban Baltimore, a 7-year-old was suspended from school. His offense? He chewed a Pop-Tart into the shape of a gun and pointed it at his classmates. His parents fought the punishment, but a judge and the Maryland Department of Education backed the school since it had a zero-tolerance policy on weapons. Zero-tolerance policies in schools were created out of the tragedy at Columbine in the form of the Guns Free School Act of 1994. Initially created to address guns and other weapons, in many districts it expanded to include non-weapon, non-drug and non-physical offenses. While students in special education can make up 15 percent of a school’s population, they represent approximately 75 percent of the students who get suspended and zero-tolerance policies can contribute to that, according to a report from the Center for American Progress. If students with special needs are suspended for behaviors that are a manifestation of their disabilities, there are two important consequences: 1. They aren’t learning the appropriate replacement behaviors. Since the punishment isn’t always immediate (often the suspension starts the next day), it is hard for students to tie the punishment to the actual offense. 2. Some students who are sent home see it as a reward. If school is difficult, this is a way out. Maybe a child prefers to be with a parent who is home during the school day. The result is positive reinforcement of a negative behavior. In addition, some studies suggest zero-tolerance policies do not decrease the severity or frequency of incidents and may even contribute to an increase. All parents, but especially those who have children in special education, should be aware of their school district’s zero-tolerance policy and contact school board members if they believe a change is needed. Parents can also ask to have items put in the child’s IEP or Behavior Plan to alert staff of behaviors that could be considered dangerous, but are not. For example, some kids really enjoy drawing elaborate pictures of weapons and wars. In some schools, that can be considered a threat and get a student expelled under a zero-tolerance policy. States, such as Delaware, have passed legislation that limits zero-tolerance policies to weapons. Pennsylvania is considering similar legislation with the addition that it also limits enforcement to students over the age of 10. New Jersey is not considering any similar legislation. Lisa Lightner is a West Chester, PA special-education advocate who blogs at ADayinOurShoes.com and is a contributor to MetroKids.com’s MomSpeak.

10 MetroKids.com

Health

continued from p. 8

breaks from the screen,” Stailey-Sims says. “Kids also tend to hunch over their phones, so they’re ending up with neck and upper-back pain.” She recommends that parents encourage their children to take their eyes off the screen every 15 minutes, change positions and stretch or roll their shoulders.

Nutrition

It’s not just kids who struggle to return to hectic school-day routines. It’s difficult for many busy parents to find the time to prepare nutritious meals during the school year. Your child can suffer if you rely on too many packaged foods or skip meals all together. “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Do not skip it,” Vinshtok says. “Healthy choices will give your child the energy she’ll need for the rest of the day.” Parents should also try to avoid giving into the temptation to eat on the run. “Nutritious, sit-down meals are often sacrificed during the school year because kids have demanding activity schedules, but it’s important that they have the opportunity to eat a balanced meal, especially if they’re going to play sports,” Westcott says.

Anxiety

Last, one of the most prevalent, but perhaps less obvious hazards of being a school-age student, is anxiety. Today’s kids face pressure to perform in school and juggle multiple extracurricular activities and sports. As a result, many children struggle with increased stress and anxiety-related issues. Stailey-Sims notes that it’s absolutely crucial for parents not to fall victim to the urge to sign their kids up for multiple dance classes, sports and music lessons once the school year starts. “One of the best things you can do for your child this school year is to limit them to one activity per season and no matter what, always make sure they have ample time allotted each day for homework, meals and play,” Westcott says. Jennifer Lesser is a New Jersey-based freelance writer.

OCTOBER 2018

continued from p. 6

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Parenting

How to Spot

BULLYING It is not always easy to tell. Here are some ways to ﬁnd out if your child is a victim.

“Bullying can be verbal, physical, online or relational, such as actual or threatened social exclusion or sabotage of friendships.” By Staci J. Schwartz, MD By October, many children have settled comfortably into the routine of the new school year. Some kids are happy to be reunited with friends they didn’t see over the summer, and others have already made new friends. There are others, however, who dread being back in school, plagued by thoughts like, “I don’t know anyone in my new classroom!” or ”What if nobody likes me?” or more stressful worries like, “What if I get picked on (again) this year?” “What if no one sits with me at lunch or plays with me at recess?” This is an important time of year for parents, teachers, counselors and other caregivers to have discussions with kids about their feelings and social interactions in school.

Questions to ask

Try to find a place to talk with minimal distractions at a time when your child is not hungry or exhausted. Instead of asking, “How was school today?” try asking some open-ended questions; you might learn clues about your child’s social interactions.

12 MetroKids.com

Here are some suggestions:

• What was the coolest thing you learned today? • Tell me the names of some kids in your class? • Where does your class eat lunch this year? • What did you do during recess? If your child reports that he has no friends, explore why your child feels isolated. Observe your child’s interactions with other kids on the playground or during playdates. Ask your child’s teachers, coaches or pediatrician for their input. Some children may just be shy, quiet or socially awkward but others may be experiencing bullying, in which case, early intervention is key.

What is bullying?

It’s important to realize what bullying is and what it isn’t. Kids will have conflicts and arguments with other kids. Kids will tease each other and may occasionally hurt one another’s feelings. This is normal. Bullying, however, is a repeated behavior that’s not a “normal part of growing up” or “just a phase that everyone goes through.” Bullying can be verbal, physical, online or relational, such as actual or threatened social exclusion or sabotage of friendships. Encourage kids to describe the bad behavior (“Billy acted like a bully when he pushed me and made me drop my sandwich!”) instead of labeling people (“Billy is a bully!”). Why is this important? Because young kids need to learn that they can choose how they treat others. Children who have acted like bullies

can change their behavior. Likewise, children who have acted like targets can learn to stand up for themselves. Studies indicate that approximately 20 percent of kids in grades 3-12 report being bullied. Another 14 percent say they are afraid of being bullied. These numbers don’t include the kids who didn’t report it or who have watched friends be bullied.

If Your Child Is Bullied

1. Talk to your child about who, what, where, and when it is happening and, if safety is a concern, notify the appropriate adults — bus driver, playground monitor, teacher, principal. 2. Reassure your child that you will work this out together but don’t take over, unless safety is at stake, so that he can problem solve and become resilient. 3. Build your child’s self-esteem and practice social skills and bullying prevention strategies.

Staci J. Schwartz (StaciSchwartz.com) is a retired physician and author of I’ve Got Your Back: Help Children Say Hello to Friends & Goodbye to Bullies. She has run bullying-prevention workshops in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

OCTOBER 2018

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At The School in Rose Valley, there are no traditional grades, standardized tests or daily homework. By Susan Stopper What is the right amount of daily homework for a third grader? How about none. That’s the viewpoint at The School in Rose Valley (SRV) outside Media, PA. For years, schools have relied on homework, grades, worksheets, and tests to educate and evaluate students. But research indicates these tools may do more harm than good. SRV takes a different approach — no standardized tests, no traditional grades and no daily homework.

Intrinsic Motivation

“We are trying to build intrinsic motivation rather than relying on a system of external punishment and rewards,” says Rod Stanton, head of school at SRV, an independent school for children in preschool through sixth grade. “Therefore, standardized tests, traditional grades, daily homework and rewards for learning are absent from the curriculum. Because grades, an extrinsic reward, have been shown to reduce intrinsic motivation, we don’t employ them.” In place of report cards, teachers at SRV construct a nuanced narrative about each student twice a year to let parents know how their child is doing mastering concepts. Teachers take daily notes on students’ work, conference with students, and communicate regularly with parents about their children’s progress and curriculum. Diane Luckman, third and fourth grade teacher at SRV says, “Because students and teachers are not just worried about a grade,

we can spend the time to understand what it means to have an individual student do his or her best. No grades allows me the space and time during the day to conference with individual students and work towards true mastery, rather than teaching to the test.” Parents and children are encouraged to read together nightly and older students occasionally receive homework to reinforce concepts, but daily homework is largely absent from the school. “There is absolutely no evidence of any academic benefit from assigning homework in elementary or middle school,” says Stanton. “The negative effects of homework, on the other hand, are monumental.” Stanton explains that children are often tired at the end of a school day, and homework can add to that exhaustion and eliminate time for extracurricular activities that are beneficial to children’s education and development. Parents often complain that they end up arguing with their children to do homework, causing stress in the family, and many parents worry that they will be criticized for helping too much or not enough. All of that stress can cause children to resent school and lose interest in learning.

Experiential, Student-Centered Learning

At SRV, students don’t spend their time in school glued to their desks completing worksheets either. As part of the school’s progressive approach to education, ample time for free play and indoor and outdoor exploration is built into every day. “The progressive approach can vary widely from school to school but is traditionally characterized by experiential learning, an integrated curriculum, and democratic values,” explains Stanton. “Research shows that when students are able to spend more time thinking about ideas than memorizing facts and practicing skills — and when they are

invited to help direct their own learning — they are not only more likely to enjoy what they’re doing but to do it better.” Teachers take note of the students’ interests and create a curriculum tailored to the students rather than teaching a pre-packaged curriculum. Without the pressure and constraints of preparing for standardized tests, students and teachers have the freedom and flexibility to dive deeply into a subject and give all learning a context, a meaning and a purpose. For instance, the fifth and sixth grade class built a new sheep house and while doing so, learned and applied multidisciplinary concepts in engineering, math, woodworking and agriculture. Students work together and help each other in multi-age classrooms, as well as tend to their 9-acre wooded campus and the school’s 18 chickens, two sheep and 3,000-square-foot garden. All of the produce from the garden is incorporated into the School’s lunches. Students support their local community by participating in service-learning projects, such as preserving wildlife, baking for senior citizens and partnering with diverse organizations and schools, such as the Pennsylvania School for the Deaf. At SRV, Stanton says, “We attend to the whole child. Our students’ physical, social, and emotional development are equally important to their cognitive development.”

After The School at Rose Valley

Most SRV graduates go on to public school after sixth grade. Though life after SRV is different, with grades, homework and less outdoor time, Stanton says their students’ ability to adapt to any environment sets the stage for success. At SRV, they’ve learned to self-advocate, problem solve, think deeply, apply concepts in various settings and, most importantly, develop a love of learning.

At a Glance The School in Rose Valley 20 School Lane Rose Valley, PA 19063 610-566-1088 • Preschool through Sixth Grade • Enrollment: Approximately 125 boys and girls • Class Size: Teacher-student ratio approximately 1:8

OCTOBER 2018

MetroKids.com 17

School, Location Website; Phone

Grades Gender

Enrollment Student: teacher ratio

Tuition Financial aid

Languages Grade begins

Technology Grade begins

Extracurriculars

Other services

$$$ (PreK-5); Chinese-6; 1:1 laptops-4; Episcopal Academy, The PreK-12 1261 $$$$ (6 up) French-6; Latin-7; instruction-PreK; Newtown Square Coed 7:1 FAO Spanish-PreK robotics-5 Episcopalacademy.org; 484-424-1400 Coeducational, independent college-prep school features an innovative math and science program, vigorous athletics, vibrant arts and strong community service. Frankford Friends School PreK-8 160 $ Spanish-PreK Phila. 19124 Coed 14:1 FAO Frankfordfriends.org; 215-533-5368 Intellectually curious & engaged students care deeply about each other & the world. They become adults who use their strengths and passions to make the world a better place. $$ (PreK-1); French-PreK; 1:1 laptops - 1; French International School of Phila. PreK-8 320 $$$ (2 up) Latin-6; coding; Bala Cynwyd Coed 18:1 FAO Spanish-6 tech lab-K; Frenchschoolphila.org; 215-667-1284 A bilingual curriculum in French and English makes for a diverse school community. Service learning begins in PreK. Spanish and Latin languages are introduced in middle school. Friends’ Central School $$ (PreK); 1:1 iPads-K; French-7; Latin-7; PreK-12 235 Wynnewood $$$ (1-5); Chromebooks 6 Prima Lingua-5; Coed 14:1 Friendscentral.org; 610-642-7575 $$$$ (6 up); FAO Spanish-PreK Independent Quaker college-prep school located on 41 acres across 2 campuses. School cultivates intellectucal, spiritual and ethical promise of students. $$ (PreK-2); Friends School Haverford 1-1 Macbooks - 5; PreK-8 110 $$$ (3 up) Spanish-PreK Haverford coding Coed 10:1 FAO Friendshaverford.org; 610-642-2334 Guided by Quaker principles since its founding in 1885, FSH provides an intellectually rich program to an intentionally diverse school family and promotes scholarship, creativity and respect. $$$ (PreK-5); Latin; Friends Select School design & PreK-12 558 $$$$ (6 up) Mandarin; Phila. 19103 robotics-PreK Coed 10:1 FAO Spanish Friends-select.org; 215-561-5900 College-prep academics at a Quaker school with a vibrant Center City location on the Ben Franklin Parkway. A diverse, close community, athletics and service learning. $$$ (PreK-5); Chinese-PreK; 3D printing; Germantown Academy PreK-12 593 $$$$ (6 up) French-6; Latin-6; coding; Ft. Wash.; Germantownacademy.net Coed 8:1 FAO Spanish-PreK innovation center; 215-646-3300 The oldest, nonsectarian, continuously run independent school in the nation offers outstanding academics in a setting steeped in more than 250 years of tradition. Germantown Friends School $$ (PreK); French-7; tech-infused PreK-12 916 Phila. 19144 $$$ (K-5); Latin-7; curriculum Coed 7:1 $$$$ (6 up) FAO Spanish-K Germantownfriends.org; 215-951-2300 Quaker day school in historic Germantown; accomplished faculty leads mission to challenge the intellect, honor differences, embrace the city and nurture each student’s mind, body and spirit. Free; all students Girard College French-7; Chromebooks; K-12 211 receive Phila. 19121 Spanish-7 computer labs Coed 12-15:1 scholarships Girardcollege.edu; 215-787-2600 Boarding school with rigorous academics for students who come from single-parent or no-parent households, have financial need and possess good grades and behavior. Gladwyne Montessori School 1:1 devices -1; PreK-6 220 $-$$$ Spanish-K Gladwyne coding Coed 20:1 FAO Gladwyne.org; 610-649-1761 With Dr. Maria Montessori’s research-based philosophy and curriculum as a foundation, the school provides students an authentic, individualized learning experience. Greene Street Friends School PreK-8 320 $$ Spanish-PreK 1:1 iPads-PreK Phila. 19144; Greenestreetfriends.org Coed 18:1 FAO 215-438-7000 Offers exceptional academic program to diverse student community, with emphasis on discovery, achievement and kindness. Service learning begins in PreK. $-$$ (PreK); 1:1 Chromebooks Grey Nun Academy PreK-8 140 $$ (K up) Spanish-PreK and iPads-PreK; Mac Yardley Coed 7:1 FAO lab-PreK Greynunacademy.org; 215-968-4151 Independent Catholic school offers academically rich curriculum that meets the unique needs of individual students. Welcomes students of all faiths and cultures. Gwynedd-Mercy Academy Elem. K-8 400 $$ French-K; 1:1 devices; Spring House Coed 9:1 FAO Spanish-K instruction Gmaelem.org; 215-646-4916 Roman-Catholic school ranked as a Top Ten School by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth. 20 percent of the graduating class is annually awarded HS scholarships. 1:1 iPad/ $$$ (PreK-2); Haverford School, The Latin-6; PreK-12 536 Chromebook/ $$$$ (3 up) Haverford Spanish-6 Boys 8:1 laptop carts FAO Haverford.org; 610-642-3020 Committed to developing the full intellectual, artistic, athletic, and moral potential in each boy, and we aim to graduate young men with strong character. Holmesburg Christian Academy PreK-8 200 $ Spanish-K Phila. 19136; Holmesburgchristian.org Coed 3:1 FAO 215-335-4323 Middle States-accredited school provides a Bible-based learning environment. Middle school sports teams.

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upgraded tech facilities

OCTOBER 2018

Is Your School

GREAT? Maybe, but it doesn’t hurt to look...

Our area oﬀers some of the finest schools in the country. Whether you are looking for your first PreK program, a high school, religious, independent or any school in between, we have a comprehensive list.

DOWNLOAD

Guide to Schools COMPARE

School Data SEARCH

by grade, type or city ATTEND

OPEN HOUSE DATES

MetroKids.com/Education

Benchmark School: Success Stories Start Here 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.

Freedom to Flourish

“The most important thing Benchmark taught me was the strategies to succeed. You might not remember the exact lessons you learned, but you will remember the strategies of how to learn. That’s something you can take with you to high school, college and your job” Jonathan Rhome ‘08, Radnor High School ‘12, University of Southern California ‘16, Assoc. Product Mgr. at Tinder

Providing a comprehensive academic program for children in grades 1-8 who have been identified as having dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning differences. Open House November 8, 9AM to 11AM Or to arrange for a visit, please contact Admissions@BenchmarkSchool.org 610.565.3741

Day School and Summer Camp 2107 North Providence Road • Media, PA 19063 www.benchmarkschool.org

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

Tour one of the nation’s leading Friends Schools!

Open House

Saturday Oct. 20 and Tuesday Nov. 6

Jenkintown, PA www.abingtonfriends.net 215.576.3950

OCTOBER 2018

Admission Open House Thursday, November 8 9:00-11:00 AM Open House for Professionals Thursday, October 25 8:30-10:30 AM

610-565-3741 • BenchmarkSchool.org

MetroKids.com 19

School, Location Website; Phone

Grades Gender

Enrollment Student: teacher ratio

Tuition Financial aid

Languages Grade begins

Technology Grade begins

Extracurriculars

Other services

Holy Child Academy 1:1 tech; PreK-8 150 $$ Spanish-K Drexel Hill STEAM lab Coed 8:01 FAO Holychildacademy.com; 610-259-2712 Independent, Catholic school with high school prep program in grades 6-8; Montessori-based early childhood program; performing arts $$ (PreK-1); 1:1 tech; Holy Child School at Rosemont PreK-8 315 $$$ (2 up) Spanish-PreK coding; Rosemont Coed 8:1 FAO VR, Maker Space Holychildrosemont.org; 610-922-1000 School provides an intellectually challenging and creative program of study that fosters academic excellence in an independent environment. Students are treated with respect. $-$$ (PreK); Kimberton Waldorf School German-1; PreK-12 250 $$ (K-3); $$$ (4 Kimberton; Kimberton.org Spanish-1 Coed 18:1 up); FAO 610-933-3635 At Kimberton Waldorf School, learning is a process of discovery that engages the whole human being in a process of exploration. $-$$ (PreK); Lansdowne Friends School PreK-6 100 $$ (K up) Spanish-PreK Lansdowne; Lansdownefriendsschool.org Coed 15:1 FAO 610-623-2548 Friends school, founded in 1902, provides challenging and creative academic program grounded in Quaker values set in a caring and respectful environment to support student growth. Meadowbrook School $$ (PreK-2); French-PreK; instruction; Meadowbrook PreK-6 120 $$$ (3-6) Spanish-PreK typing Themeadowbrookschool.org; Coed 7:1 FAO 215-884-3238 Small classes and an exceptional blend of academics and enrichment in a family-like atmosphere on a 15-acre campus, with a focus on self-confidence and leadership. 1:1 iPads; Media-Providence Friends School PreK-8 140 $$ (PreK-7); Spanish-PreK Chromebooks; Media Coed 8:1 $$$ (8); FAO SmartBoards Mpfs.org; 610-565-1960 A close-knit learning community that oﬀers students big views of the world ahead in small classes under the caring tutelage of experts who love what they do. $$ (PreK-1); Miquon School, The Chromebooks; PreK-6 150 $$$ (2 up) Conshohocken instruction-3 Coed 10:1 FAO Miquon.org; 610-828-1231 School treasures and celebrates childhood while aﬀording students time to play and grow. Program and 11-acre campus encourage wonder, inquiry, independence and discovery. Montessori School, The 3D printer; $$ PreK-6 Spanish-1 135 Dresher 1:1 Apple laptops FAO Coed 12:1 Discovertms.org; 215-542-0740 Authentic Montessori program and curriculum for children 18 months-grade 6. Students get time for independent work as well as teacher-directed activities. $$ (PreK); Montgomery School French-5; PreK-8 240 $$$ (K-8); Chester Springs; Montgomeryschool.org Spanish-PreK Coed 7:1 FAO 610-827-7222 Committed to the development of each child’s mind, body and character in an enriching cultural and physical environment.

1:1 tech-3; coding-PreK

Nazareth Academy Grade School 1-8 190 $ Latin-6; instruction-1; Phila. 19114; Nazarethacademy.net Coed 22:1 FAO Spanish-1 1:1 Chromebooks 215-637-7777 Roman Catholic school with a challenging curriculum including honors math & ELA, Latin, fine arts program & excellent forensics club. Chromebooks; $$ (PreK); Newtown Friends School Latin-5; PreK-8 235 1:1 devices; $$$ (K up) Newtown Spanish-PreK Coed 8:1 iPads FAO Newtownfriends.org; 215-968-2225 Quaker school provides dynamic curriculum through which students learn to think critically, collaborate peacefully, communicate eﬀectively and lead with character and compassion. 1:1 Chromebooks-6; Norwood-Fontbonne Academy PreK-8 416 $$ Spanish-PreK 1:1 iPads-4; Phila. 19118 Coed 10-18:1 FAO coding - K Norfon.org; 215-247-3811 Challenging primary, Montessori & service-learning curriculum in creative, interactive environment with athletics as well as a strong parent association. $ (PreK) coding; Pen Ryn School, The PreK-8 250 $$ (K up) Spanish-PreK instruction-PreK; Fairless Hills Coed 15:1 FAO robotics Penryn.org; 215-547-1800 Challenging curriculum in small classes stresses academic excellence, independent critical thinking, and community service. Leadership and character development emphasized. 1:1 Chromebooks, Penn Christian Academy PreK-8 150 $ Spanish-PreK iPads, East Norriton Coed 14:1 FAO robotics-PreK Pennchristian.org; 610-279-6628 Focused, challenging academics and extensive extracurriculars with a Biblical world view in a peaceful and kind campus environment.

20 MetroKids.com

OCTOBER 2018

Ecole Française Internationale de Philadelphie: Beyond Bilingual, Beyond Borders The French International School of Philadelphia is a not-for-profit, independent school offering bilingual instruction in French and English to a multicultural community of pre-kindergarten through eighth grade students. Half of our incoming students speak English; the other half speak French or another language. All will become equally fluent in French and English and experience the wide cultural diversity that defines our community, building a foundation for global thinking. Founded in 1991, we now have an enrollment of over 300 students in our Lower and Upper Schools. We offer a strong academic curriculum taught by certified teachers and accredited by both the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the French Ministry of Education. Our balanced program capitalizes on the strengths of both the French and American systems. Many traditions unite our school community, including our Martin Luther King Day of Service, Science Fair, student performances, family activities and social events. Our parents often present their unique and varied cultural traditions to enhance the classroom experience. After school, our students participate in a wide array of enrichment activities. Each year, our graduates proudly receive acceptances from their first choice schools, including top public and private high schools in the greater Philadelphia area and their equivalents abroad.

150 N. Highland Ave. / 23 City Ave. Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 (610) 667-1284 • www.frenchschoolphila.org

HANDS ON, MINDS ON Smart Education in a Culture of Kindness

• • • • •

Bilingual program from Preschool to Grade 8 Diverse school community and global focus Before and after school care and extracurricular activities US and French accreditations New students are admitted at the age of 3, 4 or 5 with no prior knowledge of French!

150 N. Highland Ave., Bala Cynwyd, PA • (610) 667-1284 • www.frenchschoolphila.org

COME VISIT

Guided by Quaker principles since its founding in 1885, Friends School Haverford promotes academic scholarship, creativity, respect, integrity, and self-awareness with a commitment to creating a culture of stewardship and kindness.

Join us for an Open House October 3 > 9-11:00 am October 20 > 9-11:00 am November 7 > 9-11:00 am December 5 > 9-11:00 am

OCTOBER 2018

MetroKids.com 21

School, Location Website; Phone

Grades Gender

Enrollment Student: teacher ratio

Tuition Financial aid

Languages Grade begins

Technology Grade begins

Extracurriculars

Other services

$$ (PreK); Perelman Jewish Day School 1:1 laptops; PreK-5 350 $$$ (1 up) Hebrew-PreK Wynnewood & Melrose Park coding Coed 15-18:1 FAO Pjds.org; 610-658-2518, 215-635-3130 Outstanding general studies program complemented by a robust Hebrew language/Jewish studies curriculum. Education for the whole child envelops social and emotional intelligence. Philadelphia School, The PreK-8 478 $$$ Latin-8; tech-integrated Phila. 19146 Coed 8:1 FAO Spanish-PreK curriculum Tpschool.org; 215-545-5323 School educates children for a future that is impossible to know but not impossible to shape. Progressive approach has deep thinking, innovation and agency as its guiding values. Philadelphia-Montgomery Christian K-12 150 $-$$ Academy; Erdenheim Coed 15:1 FAO Phil-mont.com; 215-233-0782 Excellent education from a Christian world and life view; educating children of Christian families since 1943.

instruction-K

Plumstead Christian School instruction; Plumsteadville PreK-12 207 $-$$ Latin-3 robotics Plumsteadchristian.org; Coed 15:1 FAO 215-766-8073 Nondenominational college-prep Christian school; mission to provide a caring community where students are taught to think biblically, serve eﬀectively & lead Christ-centered lives. Plymouth Meeting Friends School PreK-6 120 $$-$$$ Spanish-PreK instruction-3 Plymouth Meeting Coed 16:1 FAO Pmfs1780.org; 610-828-2288 Quaker school promotes respect and nurtures children’s individual qualities. Campus is serene; children feel safe to explore and become part of community. Project Learn School K-8 60 $-$$ Phila. 19119 Spanish-K Coed 9:1 FAO Projectlearnschool.org; 215-438-3623 Independent cooperative school where teachers, students and parents work together to create a progressive & humanistic community. Sliding-scale tuition. $$ (K); adaptive tech; 1:1 Quaker School at Horsham, The K-9 75 $$$$ (1 up) iPads and Horsham Coed 4:1 FAO Chromebooks Quakerschool.org; 215-674-2875 A haven for children with social, emotional & academic challenges. The peaceful Quaker community is a place where children who have not previously experienced school success blossom. coding - K; Sacred Heart Academy Bryn Mawr K-12 265 $$ French-K computer lab; Bryn Mawr Girls 8:1 FAO STEM Shabrynmawr.org; 610-527-3915 Catholic, independent school that seeks to produce self-confident women; provide a challenging intellectual education; develop a love of God. Chinese, Saint Aloysius Academy PreK-8 233 $$ Latin-6; Bryn Mawr Coed (PreK); 15:1 FAO Spanish-K Staloysiusacademy.org; 610-525-1670 Boys (K-8) A nurturing and caring environment where boys can be scholars, musicians, scientists, actors, athletes.

1:1 devices; Chromebooks - 5

Saint Bernadette of Lourdes School 1:1 iPads PreK-8 330 $ Spanish-PreK Drexel Hill & Netbooks-K Coed 19:1 FAO St-bernadette.org; 610-789-7676 Roman Catholic school provides a safe, positive and challenging service-learning environment that cultivates faith and values along with academics. Saint Katharine of Siena School K-8 435 $-$$ Spanish-K Wayne; Sksschool.org Coed 24 FAO 610-688-5451 Roman Catholic school with strong faith identity and sense of community educates the whole child. Dedicated & caring faculty; active parental volunteerism. $-$$ (PreK-K); Saint Peter’s School PreK-8 200 $$$ (1 up) French-PreK Phila. 19147 Coed 10:1 FAO St-peters-school.org; 215-925-3963 Non-sectarian day school with a tradition of innovation, creativity and character since 1834. Designed to prepare students for the challenges of high school and beyond. School in Rose Valley, The PreK-6 123 tech-integrated $-$$ (PreK); Rose Valley; Theschoolinrosevalley.org Spanish-PreK Coed 8:1 curriculum-3 $$ (K up); FAO 610-566-1088 A progressive program committed to the development of the whole child. Full- and part-time enrollment options available for PreK and K. $$$ (PreK-2); Shipley School, The French-7; Latin-7; PreK-12 460 1:1 laptops, Bryn Mawr $$$$ (3 up); Mandarin-7; Coed 7:1 STEAM -PreK Shipleyschool.org; 610-525-4300 FAO Spanish-PreK Private day school with a commitment to educational excellence. School develops within each student a love of learning and a desire for compassionate participation in the world.

22 MetroKids.com

OCTOBER 2018

GREENE STREET FRIENDS SCHOOL Open House dates: Thursday, Oct. 4 8:45 - 10:30am Saturday, Oct. 27 1:00 - 3:00pm

greenestreetfriends.org lclancy@greenestreetfriends.org 215.438.7005

Join our team.

Flexible hours and options

Thursday, Nov. 15 8:45 - 10:30am

FIND US

ONLINE

MetroKids.com

Greene Street Friends School Since 1855, Greene Street Friends School, located in historic Germantown, has educated children according to the Quaker principles of honesty, respect for the individual, peace, integrity and simplicity. While embracing these core values, the School has dared to be at the forefront of innovative educational practices. That tradition of innovation continues today with an emphasis on handson active learning, non-violent methods of conflict resolution, cultural understanding and cultural competency, community service and community connection, environmental education and the thoughtful incorporation of technology into the curriculum, including a 1:1 iPad program for the Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest students. Greene Street Friends School is perhaps the most diverse school in the Delaware Valley, welcoming and serving more than 300 children of all backgrounds in grades PreK through 8. Strong fundamentals in all academic areas and ethical strength through an outstanding social and emotional curriculum prepare our students for a rapidly changing world and enable them to progress with an enthusiasm for learning and for life. It is our hope that through their experiences, Greene Street children will discover and affirm themselves and others as they come to know and value differences in ability, language, skin color, sexual orientation, religion, family structure and family income.

Greene Street Friends School 5511 Greene Street, Philadelphia, PA 19144 215-438-7545; GreeneStreetFriends.org

Visit our campus for a Talk & Tour Selected Tuesdays from 9:30 - 11:00am

Find new partners interested in reaching Delaware Valley families. We are seeking friendly, connected parents to be our Marketing Consultant. Sales experience helpful but will train the right person. Send cover letter and resume to dweinmann@metrokids.com

OCTOBER 2018

MetroKids.com 23

School, Location Website; Phone

Grades Gender

Enrollment Student: teacher ratio

Tuition Financial aid

Languages Grade begins

Technology Grade begins

Extracurriculars

Other services

$$$ (PreK-4); Chinese-K; 1:1 laptops-5; Springside Chestnut Hill Academy PreK-12 1,025 $$$$ (5 up) French-7; Latin-7; 3D printing; Phila. 19118 Single-sex in 7:1 FAO Spanish-7 coding, robotics Sch.org; 215-247-4700 PreK-8 An independent school that oﬀers a rigorous curriculum and empowers its students to thrive independently and collectively. 85 Stratford Friends School $$$$ 1:1 Chromebooks; K-9 6:1 (elem.); Newtown Square FAO Innovation Center Coed 12:1 (mid.) Stratfordfriends.org; 610-355-9580 First Quaker elementary school in U.S. for children who learn diﬀerently. Multisensory Teacher Training Center on-site. Service learning begins in K. Trevose Day School/Neshaminy PreK-5 Montessori; Feasterville 10:1 $ French-PreK robotics/technology Coed Trevosedayschool.org; 215-355-4373 For more than 45 years, Trevose Day School and Neshaminy Montessori have provided an environment where children can discover their best intellectual, physical and emotional selves. $-$$ (PreK) Upland Country Day School Latin-6; PreK-9 145 $$$ (1 up) Kennett Square Spanish-K Coed 12:1 FAO Uplandcds.org; 610-444-3035 69-year-old school instills the 4 As: Attitude, Academics, Arts and Athletics. Service learning begins in PreK.

1:1 iPads-4; 1:1 laptops-6

Valley Christian School iPads; instruction; PreK-8 126 $ Spanish-PreK Huntingdon Valley laptops Coed 11:1 FAO Vcskids.com; 215-947-4581 Provides a curriculum that is developmentally appropriate, academically challenging and family-friendly. Critical thinking and problem solving take place within a God-centered context. Villa Maria Academy Lower School PreK-8 1:1 iPads; 285 $$ Spanish-PreK Immaculata Coed (PreK); instruction-PreK 20:1 FAO Villamaria.org; 610-644-4864 Girls (K-8) Focus on leadership and 21st century learning at girls’ Roman Catholic school with coed preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds. Faith-based and emphasis on STEM education. Walden School, The PreK-8 139 $-$$ Media Spanish-PreK Coed 20:1 FAO Thewaldenschool.org; 610-892-8000 Montessori-based academics in mixed-age classrooms foster intellectual curiosity and independent learning in a peaceful, respectful environment. Country’s first PreK-8 Fair Trade school. Waldorf School of Philadelphia, The K-8 250 $-$$ Spanish-1 Phila. 19144 Coed 8-24:1 FAO Phillywaldorf.com; 215-248-1662 Waldorf curriculum inspires critical thinking, confidence and boundless creativity by teaching arts alongside science, math and languages. 1:1 Chromebooks; Waldron Mercy Academy PreK-8 439 $$ Latin-4; 3D printer; Merion Station Coed 9:1 FAO Spanish-K robotics Waldronmercy.org; 610-664-9847 Catholic school twice recognized as a national Blue Ribbon School of Excellence as well as a Toshiba/NSTA Explora/Vision national winner for the past two years. West Chester Friends School PreK-5 145 $$$ Spanish-PreK STEAM program West Chester Coed 6:1 FAO Wcfriends.org; 610-696-2962 Quaker school with community service emphasizes literature, studio art and art history, music, science and health. Enriched integrated curriculum; diverse, international community. $$$ (PreK-5) Westtown School Latin-7; PreK-12 320 1:1 iPads-PreK $$$$ (6 up) West Chester Spanish-PreK Coed 8:1 FAO Westtown.edu; 610-399-0123 Quaker day school with boarding options in grades 9-12. School oﬀers a challenging, diverse curriculum emphasizing action-based learning, critical thinking, collaboration and service. $$$ (PreK-5); Chinese-6; 1:1 Chromebooks-3; William Penn Charter School PreK-12 505 $$$$ (6 up) French-6; Latin-6; 1:1 MacBooks-6; Phila. 19144 Coed 7:1 FAO Spanish-K iPad- Prek; coding - K Penncharter.com; 215-844-3460 Friends school that grounds vigorous academics, arts and athletics in Quaker values. 47-acre campus; math & writing centers; state-of-the-art performing arts center. Willistown Country Day School PreK-5 100 $( PreK) French-PreK; instruction-PreK Malvern & West Chester Coed NP $$(K-5) Spanish-PreK robotics Willistown.org; 610-647-4001 Montessori curriculum on three campuses taught by PA-certified teachers. Outstanding music program. 40+ years of academic excellence. $ (PreK-K); Wyndcroft School, The French-PreK; PreK-8 220 Tech programs-PreK $$$ (1 up) Pottstown Latin-5 Coed 8:1 FAO Wyndcroft.org; 610-326-0544 School’s mission is to oﬀer a rigorous academic program enabling the child to establish a firm foundation for a happy and successful future with confidence to succeed.

24 MetroKids.com

OCTOBER 2018

FAITH | INTELLECT | SERVICE | COMMUNITY | GROWTH

Strong Minds Brave Hearts SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20 | 8:45 AM FALL 6th GRADE SCHOLARSHIP EXAM REGISTRATION REQUIRED

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23 | 9-11:00 AM ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE GRADES K-12 www.SHAbrynmawr.org | 610-527-3915 480 S. Bryn Mawr Avenue, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010

phillywaldorf.com

Kindergarten is no place MetroKids_18.indd for pressure tactics. It’s for nurturing that leads to real growth.

Kindergarten is no place for pressure tactics. It’s for nurturing that leads to real growth.

Is there such a thing as an urban oasis for preserving childhood? At the Waldorf School of Philadelphia, there is. Our curriculum nurtures Kindergarten is no place for pressure tactics. your child’s body, mind and It’s for nurturing that spirit in a playful environment leads to real growth. that grows her capacity for learning, thinking and doing. Join us: Saturday, October 6 @ 10 am LifeAvelong. 6000 Wayne | Germantown

open

open open Join us: Saturday, October 6 @ 10 am | Germantown

6000am Wayne Ave Join us: Saturday, October 6 @ 10 6000 Wayne Ave | Germantown

OCTOBER 2018

8/16/18 11:42 AM

Kindergarten is no place for pressure tactics. It’s for nurturing that leads realschool, growth. At Philadelphia’s oldest to Friends we are

reimagining the classroom

From the experiential learning emerging indoors and outdoors on our 47-acre green campus, to the creative intellectual work taking place in our labs, maker spaces, and classrooms, to the stewardship and empathy taking root within our diverse and dynamic school community—we’re preparing students to lead and serve in the wider world.

Open HOuse sat., Oct. 13 Pre-K to 5 @ 10 am grades 6-12 @ 2:30 Pm

rsVP PennCharter.Com

re open

inventing classic

Join us: Saturday, October 6 @ 10 am 6000 Wayne Ave | Germantown

MetroKids.com 25

Family FamilyFun Fun

Sweater weather is in full swing, jack-o-lanterns perch on doorsteps and kids can’t wait to show oﬀ their Halloween costumes. Celebrate the season with harvest fun and haunted attractions throughout the Delaware Valley.

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Arasapha Farms, Glen Mills

Sat. & Sun. through Oct. In addition to U-pick pumpkins, hayrides and a maze, new activities at the pumpkin garden include a barn bounce, pumpkin jump and gem digging.

Hellerick’s Family Farm, Doylestown

Through Nov. 4 The farm’s new, 18-acre Aerial Park features four courses with 30 adventures and zip lines that vary in diﬃculty. Those who prefer solid ground are in luck: the farm hosts 40-plus other activities, including the harvest moon hayride (Fri. & Sat.).

Hurricane Hill Farm, Coatesville

Sat. & Sun. through Oct. Got football fans in the family? Team up to tackle the Eagles-themed maze, then check out the new combine harvester slide.

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KEY: not-so-spooky; elementary-age eerie; batten down the hatches! Shady Brook Farm, Yardley

Through Oct. Do your kids want a hint of spooky fun? Let them try the Barn of Horror Jr. and Alien Invasion Jr., scaled-down versions of the farm’s nighttime programming. On select dates, enjoy moonlight pumpkin picking and a ﬂashlight maze.

Snipes Farm and Education Center, Morrisville

Sat. & Sun. through Oct. Tour the farm museum, take a hayride to the orchard to pick pumpkins and apples, visit animals, conquer the maze and stock up on seasonal goodies.

Cherry Crest Adventure Farm, Ronks

Through Nov. 3; flashlight mazes Fri. & Sat. Whether you hop on a wagon or kiddietrain ride, crawl through the straw-bale tunnel, meet animals, hit the playground or get hands-on in the farm activity tent, this place boasts all the hallmarks of fall fun.

Freddy Hill Farms, Lansdale

Sat. & Sun. through Oct. Families enjoy a maze, pony rides, pig races, pick-your-own pumpkins, kids’ crafts and seasonal decorations.

Froelich’s Farm & Garden, Furlong

Sat. & Sun. through Oct. Fall festival weekends oﬀer scarecrow building, pumpkin picking, hayrides, moonbounces, a maze, pumpkin bowling, live music, games, a kids’ zone, community events and pumpkin painting.

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Linvilla Orchards, Media

Through Nov. 4 Carve out time to explore Pumpkinland, complete with 100 tons of pumpkins and towering scarecrows that highlight the legends and lore of the harvest season. After, hitch a hayride to the witch’s house for scary stories, jokes and treats.

Dutch Wonderland, Lancaster

Milky Way Farm, Chester Springs

Sat. & Sun. through Oct. Pumpkin harvest weekends let families search the ﬁelds for the perfect jack-olantern, navigate a sprawling maze and relax on a hayride around the farm.

Sat. & Sun., Oct. 13-28 There’ll be no scary surprises during Happy Hauntings, complete with an interactive trick-or-treat trail, 30-plus themed rides and entertainment.

OCTOBER 2018

Franklin Square, Phila.

Fri.-Sun. through Oct. Philly Mini Golf gets an eerie makeover with fog, lights, music and a few surprises. Stop by on select dates for trick-or-treat and pumpkin decorating.

Hersheypark, Hershey

Fri.-Sun., Oct. 19-Nov. 4 Chocolate World’s the starting point for the Trick-or-Treat Adventure, which brings families to 13 stops around the park. After, embark on a ﬂashlight tour of ZooAmerica and experience lights-out rollercoaster rides.

Longwood Gardens, Kennett Sq.

Through Oct. Bring your little ones to the Pumpkin Playground, where they can explore, get active and pose for pics with an 800lb. pumpkin.

Morris Arboretum, Phila.

Oct. 6-31 Cast your vote for your favorite in the Scarecrow Contest. Themed “A Moment in Time,” the display features dozens of creations crafted by local residents.

Beware of Scares Not for the faint of heart, these venues prey on your fears with special eﬀects, menacing characters and jump-worthy surprises guaranteed to terrify all who dare to enter. Active Acres Farm in Newtown serves up screams at Sleepy Hollow (Fri.-Sun., through Oct. 28), featuring the infamous hayride, haunted house and cornﬁeld. The Haunted Circus Mansion (Fri. & Sat., Oct. 12-27) at the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts transforms into an attraction with two journeys. Teens and adults can opt for the Attic Path, rife with shadows, cobwebs and ghouls. Or meet classic Halloween characters along the family-friendly Cellar Path. Brace yourself for Dorney Park’s Halloween Haunt (Fri. & Sat. through Oct.) in Allentown, featuring mazes, scare zones, themed rides and prowling monsters that are so frightening, kids 13 and younger are advised to steer clear.

OCTOBER 2018

Peddler’s Village, New Hope

Through Oct. 28 Take a break from holiday shopping to view the Scarecrow Competition and Display, ﬁlled with locally made, larger-than-life straw fellows themed to categories like Quite the Character, Kids Only and, new this year, Philly Pride.

Philadelphia Zoo, Phila.

Sat. & Sun., Oct. 13-28 Creepy-crawly fun abounds during Boo at the Zoo, including a walk through the non-scary Extinction Graveyard, photo opportunities at the giant pumpkin wall and a hay-bale maze.

Sesame Place, Langhorne

Through Oct. 28 Don your costume to join the Count’s Halloween Spooktacular, a whimsical celebration with themed rides, shows and parade hosted by Sesame Street characters.

Woodmere Art Museum, Phila.

Through Oct. 28 Created by area artists, the architecturally designed straw maze boasts unexpected twists, turns and plenty of spots for kids to climb and play. Take advantage of art-making activities on Sundays. Log on to MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

Kids younger than 7 aren’t permitted to enter Terror Behind the Walls (select dates through Nov. 10) at Philly’s Eastern State Penitentiary. The famous prison’s dark history, paired with spooks that lurk at every corner, guarantee a bone-chilling experience. Pennhurst Asylum (select dates, Oct. 5-Nov. 4) in East Vincent is a hospital of horrors, from the maximum-security wing to the morgue to an underground area used for medical experiments.

NUGGET & FANG September 29 at 2pm & 4pm ‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS… December 7-9 THE NUTCRACKER - Abridged & Narrated December 14 - 16

There’s nowhere to run aboard the Night Chills hayride at Warrington’s Winding Brook Farm (Fri. & Sat. through Oct.), where you’ll ﬁnd thrills and chills deep in the forest. With attractions like the aptly named Barn of Horror, Alien Encounter and Carnage, Shady Brook Farm’s HorrorFest (Fri.-Sun. through Oct.) is as terrifying as it sounds.

SNOW DAY - An Interactive Live Radio Show December 22-23 RAPUNZEL February 23 at 2pm & 4pm A SICK DAY FOR AMOS MCGEE Saturday, March 16 at 2pm & 4pm JACK & THE BEANSTALK Saturday, April 13 at 2pm & 4pm 609-570-3333 kelseytheatre.net

THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS Saturday, May 4 at 2pm & 4pm 1200 Old Trenton Rd. W. Windsor, NJ 08550

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Family Fun

Don't miss the family-favorite Great Pumpkin Carve, Oct. 1820, in Chadds Ford.

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR Special needs event Witches & Wizards Weekend

Oct. 19 & 20

Seasonal event

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

2 Tuesday

Fall Harvest Day at the Star Barn Village, Elizabethtown. Activities include a petting zoo, yard games and pony rides. FREE

4 Thursday

The Glow: A Jack-o-Lantern Experience at West Fairmount Park, Phila. See “Fan of,” p. 29. $$$$

5 Friday

Storytime at Morris Arboretum, Phila. $$$

6 Saturday

All Hallows Eve Fall Festival

20 Saturday

Bank of America Museums on Us, Phila. Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders get free access to participating venues, including the African American Museum in Philadelphia, Museum of the American Revolution, the National Museum of American Jewish History and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. FREE The Count's Batty Birthday Bash Dine at Sesame Place, Langhorne. $$$$ Fall Family Weekend at Morris Arboretum, Phila. Make scarecrows, paint pumpkins and sample diﬀerent varieties of apples. $$$

South Street Pumpkinfest

27 Saturday

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Harvest Festival at the Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg. Journey back in time and enjoy spinning, weaving and broom-making demos; folk entertainment; and kids’ activities including pumpkin decorating and horse-drawn wagon rides. $$

Haunted Hayride at Green Lane Park, Green Lane. The family-friendly trip ends with crafts and snacks. FREE Moshu-Boo at Penn’s Landing, Phila. Set sail on the Moshulu to enjoy costumed characters, pumpkin decorating and food. $$$$ Fall Harvest Festival at Newlin Grist Mill, Glen Mills. Features colonial trade demos, pumpkin painting, hayrides, dancing and live music. FREE Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire: Autumn Harvest Weekend at Mount Hope Estate and Winery, Manheim. $$$$ Midtown Village Fall Festival at 13th & Chestnut Sts., Phila. Family-friendly fun includes entertainment, merchant and vendor displays, crafters and kids’ activities. FREE Philadelphia Museum of Dance at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Join professional dancers for interactive activities. FREE Spooky Mini Golf at Franklin Square, Phila. $$ Tower Tour for Families at Fonthill Castle, Doylestown. Explore areas of the castle that are typically inaccessible. $$

OCTOBER 2018

7 Sunday

Animal Habitat Restoration Project at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Join park rangers to remove invasive plants from a small area. FREE Fall Family Weekend at Morris Arboretum, Phila. See Oct. 6. $$$ Fall Foliage Express on the West Chester Railroad, West Chester. $$$ Family Arts Academy: Painting Words at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make a masterpiece using your favorite word as the subject. FREE Farm-to-School Trail Run and Family Wellness Fair at Kimberton Waldorf School, Phoenixville. Little ones can partake in a kiddie run, animal show and activities. $$$$ First Sunday Family Day: Drum Like a Lady at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Try your hand at creative projects and percussion activities, including a performance by a local women’s drumming collective. FREE Harvest Festival at the Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg. See Oct. 6. $$ Old City Fest at 3rd & Arch Sts., Phila. Showcases work from local artists, designers, restaurants, theaters and galleries. FREE Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire: Autumn Harvest Weekend at Mount Hope Estate and Winery, Manheim. $$$$ Spooky Mini Golf at Franklin Square, Phila. $$

11 Thursday

Pennsylvania National Horse Show at the Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg. Through Oct. 20. $$$ Taste of Ardmore at Toyota, Ardmore. See “Parents’ Night Out,” p. 30. FREE

12 Friday

Grand Opening at Cherry Street Pier, Phila. See "New in Town," p. 30. FREE Halloween Ghost Lantern Tour at the Crystal Cave, Kutztown. Guides in Victorian garb share folklore, ghost stories and the site’s history. $$$$ Tall Trees Nature Playdate at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. FREE

13 Saturday

Birding and Bagels at Riverbend Environmental Education Center, Gladwyne. Learn how to use binoculars and choose a ﬁeld guide, as well as tips and tricks for bird identiﬁcation. FREE Boo at the Zoo at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$

Captain Cookie's Halloween Pirate Feast Dine at Sesame Place, Langhorne $$$$ David Pincus Extra Fun Day at Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, Phila. Named after a local philanthropist, enjoy games, food, art activities and live music. FREE DogFest at Silver Lake Nature Center, Bristol. Pups and their families enjoy demos, speakers and food. FREE Family Sewing Day at the Wayne Art Center, Wayne. Pick up the basics of fabric cutting and hand & machine sewing, then make a fabric pumpkin. $$$$ Franklin Square, Phila. $$ Bark-or-Treat Trail: Lead the family dog along a treat-laden course. Spooky Mini Golf. OctoberFEAST at Peddler's Village, Lahaska. Expect German food, drinks and live entertainment. FREE Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire: Halloween Daze and Spooky Nights Weekend at Mount Hope Estate and Winery, Manheim. $$$$ RiverCity Festival at Penn Treaty Park, Phila. Spend the day by the waterfront for live music, magic shows, ﬁeld games and an inﬂatable obstacle course and rock wall. FREE Webelos Scouts: Into the Woods at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. Find out how to identify trees and examine the stories behind growth rings. Each participant receives a native plant. $$$

14 Sunday

Boo at the Zoo at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Fall Foliage Express on the West Chester Railroad, West Chester. $$$ Family Arts Academy: Marble Making at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make a free-standing mobile drawing. FREE National Dog Show Charity Walk at Wilson Farm Park, Wayne. Enjoy dog demos and activities, celeb sightings and prizes. $$$$ Naturalist Foray: Birds of Autumn at the Peace Valley Nature Center, Doylestown. FREE Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire: Halloween Daze and Spooky Nights Weekend at Mount Hope Estate and Winery, Manheim. $$$$ Scarecrow-Making Workshop at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Straw is provided, but you’ll need to bring clothing and other materials. $ Spooky Mini Golf at Franklin Square, Phila. $$

FAN OF . . . JACK-O-LANTERNS

From cheery to chilling, pumpkins can be dressed up and decked out in an endless number of ways. The Glow: A Jack-o-Lantern Experience (Oct. 4-28) at Philly’s West Fairmount Park gives visitors plenty of ideas: The Halloween wonderland features more than 3,000 hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins transformed into colorful landscapes, iconic ﬁgures and intricate structures. Expert carvers will be on-site to share tips and take requests. OCTOBER 2018

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Family Fun The Great Pumpkin Carve at the Chadds Ford Historical Society, Chadds Ford. See Oct. 18. $$$ Great Train Robbery on the Strasburg Rail Road, Ronks. Journey back to the ‘30s to experience a Bonnie and Clyde-style heist. $$$$ Harvest Fest at Pennypack Farm and Education Center, Horsham. Vendors, food, live music and hayrides are all on tap. FREE Harvest Happenings at Pottsgrove Manor, Pottstown. Revel in the season with 18th century treats, cooking demos and crafts. $ International Archaeology Day at the Penn Museum, Phila. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the venue’s excavation sites. $$$

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

Foodies ﬂock to the annual Taste of Ardmore (Oct. 11) to try dishes from dozens of award-winning restaurants. Hosted by Ardmore Toyota, the event serves up wine and beer sampling, cocktails, indoor, outdoor lounge areas, live entertainment and food from both new and longtime-favorite eateries.

15 Monday

Children's Nature Series: Explore Fall at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Stories, crafts and a scavenger hunt focus on seasonal changes. $

16 Tuesday

Community Night at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

18 Thursday

The Great Pumpkin Carve at the Chadds Ford Historical Society, Chadds Ford. Enjoy hayrides, pumpkin painting and entertainment while viewing 70 lit pumpkins carved by local artists. $$$ Mother of All Baby Showers at the Please Touch Museum, Phila. This parents-only event features exclusive deals on products and services, spa treatments, info sessions and giveaways. $$$$

19 Friday

Homeschool Day at the American Helicopter Museum & Education Center, West Chester. Get hands-on during educational programming hosted by local museums and organizations. $$ The Great Pumpkin Carve at the Chadds Ford Historical Society, Chadds Ford. See Oct. 18. $$$ Spooktacular Family Night at the Cedar Grove Barn, Conshohocken. Halloween fun includes a haunted house, crafts and a costume contest. $

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Spooky Overnight at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. Don your costume to meet nocturnal animals and make crafts. $$$$ Witches and Wizards Weekend in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood, Phila. Watch a Quidditch tournament, navigate a straw maze, take hayrides and make a trick-ortreat tote. FREE

Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire: Halloween Daze and Spooky Nights Weekend at Mount Hope Estate and Winery, Manheim. $$$$ Pumpkinfest at Bridge & Main Sts., Phoenixville. Fill your day with derby races, a carnival and crafts. FREE Shiverfest at Riverbend Environmental Education Center, Gladwyne. Show oﬀ your costume for this mildly eerie festival, where past activities have included pumpkin decorating, a haunted trail, trick-ortreat and a “mad science” show. $$$$

20 Saturday

Abby's Halloween Magical Magician Ball Dine at Sesame Place, Langhorne. $$$$ Access to Science at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Kids on the autism spectrum and their families experience the museum before it opens to the public. $$$ All Hallow's Eve Fall Festival at Pennypacker Mills, Schwenksville. Enjoy hayrides, bean-bag toss, pumpkin painting, a cider press and corn shucking. $ Boo at the Zoo at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Children's Picture Book Festival at St. Paul’s Elkins Park. Authors and illustrators tell stories and sign books. FREE Fall Fest at Parkside Place Park, N. Wales. Activities include a kids’ costume contest, games and touch-a-truck. FREE Fall Workshop Day at Wayne Art Center, Wayne. Opt to make a paper wreath, painted pumpkin face, haunted mask, spooky laminate or corn-husk dolls. $$$$

NEW IN TOWN

Philly’s waterfront just debuted a new destination. Visitors can enter Cherry Street Pier for the ﬁrst time Oct. 12. The 55,000-square-foot former municipal shipping pier is now converted into a public spot that showcases work from local artists. The following day kicks oﬀ Festival for the People (through Oct. 28), featuring a full slate of programming, including events, sculptures and installations all about the revamped space and neighboring Race Street Pier.

OCTOBER 2018

Spooky Mini Golf at Franklin Square, Phila. $$ Toddler Time at the American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila. $ Witches and Wizards Weekend in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood, Phila. See Oct. 19. FREE

21 Sunday

Boo at the Zoo at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Family Arts Academy: Drawing in Motion at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make a series of drawings and paintings that’ll be turned into a video animation. FREE Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire: Halloween Daze and Spooky Nights Weekend at Mount Hope Estate and Winery, Manheim. $$$$ Spooky Mini Golf at Franklin Square, Phila. $$

22 Monday

Family Day of Clay: Dog or Cat Bowl at the Wayne Art Center, Wayne. $$$$

24 Wednesday

Full Moon Hike at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. FREE Owl Prowl Hike at the Brandywine Red Clay Alliance, West Chester. $

25 Thursday

Chrysanthemum Festival at Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square. View the country’s largest display of the ﬂower, including a thousand-bloom mum with 1,500-plus blooms on one stem. Through Nov. 18. $$$$

26 Friday

Franklin Square, Phila. Trick-or-Treat Tail: Decorate a bag in which to store your goodies. FREE Spooky Mini Golf. $$ Halloween Hike at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. See Oct. 26. $ Healthy Halloween at Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, Phila. Costumes are encouraged for this event that features messy art projects, live music and treats. $$ Hamilton Was Here: Opening Weekend at the Museum of the American Revolution, Phila. This hands-on “playscape” draws connections between modern Philly and Alexander Hamilton’s contributions to the country’s founding. $$$ Hound-o-Ween Dog Costume Contest at Schmidt's Commons, Phila. Pups and their humans vie for prizes in categories like most creative, most original, best presentation and best owner-and-dog costume combo. $$ Howl-o-Ween 5K and Dog Walk at Parkside Place Park, N. Wales. $$$$ Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix perform at Sellersville Theater 1894, Sellersville. Watch rescue dogs perform impressive feats, from the world’s only skateboarding basset hound and a ladder-climbing terrier. $$ Medieval Festival at the Glencairn Museum, Bryn Athyn. Watch stained-glass-blowing and weaponry demos and see a Gutenberg-style printing press in action. $$ Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire: Halloween Daze and Spooky Nights Weekend at Mount Hope Estate and Winery, Manheim. $$$$

Gaggles of Ghosts and Ghouls at the Peace Valley Nature Center, Doylestown.This slightly spooky trail walk explores myths about cats, rats, snakes and other creatures that go bump in the night. $

Philadelphia Shell Show at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Features competitive displays by collectors, artists and amateur scientists and an international market with jewelry, shells and books. $$$

Halloween Crafternoon at the Mercer Museum, Doylestown. Kids create black cats, candy corn and Frankenstein and his bride out of paper materials. $$$

Philly K-8 School Fair at Girard College, Phila. Meet reps from 100-plus public district, public charter and private schools in the area. FREE

Halloween Hike at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. Trek through the candlelit forest to meet nocturnal animals, then enjoy hayrides, crafts, food trucks and s’mores by a campﬁre. $$

Seaport Spooktacular at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila. Trick-or-treat on the decks of the Cruiser Olympia, see what’s hiding in mysterious mud at the science lab, listen to ghost stories and make glow bracelets. $$$$

Spooky Overnight at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. See Oct. 19. $$$$ Trick-or-Treat Weekend at Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Twp., NJ. $$$$

South Street PumpkinFest at Headhouse Square, Phila. Family activities include a straw-bale maze, seasonal food, hayride, face painting and storefront trick-or-treating. FREE

27 Saturday

Spider’s Tea Party at the Peace Valley Nature Center, Doylestown. Bring a stuﬀed animal to join Mrs. Spider for tea and tales. FREE

The Count's Halloween Party at Sesame Place, Langhorne. $$$$

Trick-or-Treat Weekend at Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Twp., NJ. $$$$

Boo at the Zoo at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ East Passyunk Fall Fest and Spooky Saturday at Passyunk Ave. & Tasker St., Phila. While the kids engage in pumpkin decorating, arts & crafts, trick-or-treat and costume contests, parents can browse vendors and try seasonal cocktails. FREE

28 Sunday

Boo at the Zoo at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Day of the Dead Celebration at the Penn Museum, Phila. Mark the Mexican holiday with music, dance, storytelling and arts & crafts. $$$

OCTOBER 2018

MetroKids.com 31

MomSpeak

Family Fun

The MomSpeak Roundup

Family Arts Academy: Gourd Animals at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Construct a critter from a gourd. FREE

Moms know things. Find out what kind of things at MetroKids.com/MomSpeak where we keep an eye out for the best local parenting blogs and share with you their tips, observations and humor. This month, check out these two.

Fall Family Day at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Phila. Festivities include a pumpkin patch, parade and picnic. $

Fall Experiences No season tickles the senses like fall — crunchy leaves, the ﬁrst wood ﬁres, geese honking on their trip south. Katie Chiavarone (Viewsfromastepstool.com) can show you how to make four fallthemed sensory bags so your babies and toddlers can experience autumnal wonder anytime they want.

Puppy Love “Being greeted with a classic golden-retriever smile and tail wag and starting with a game of hideand-seek just makes the work we do here fun,” writes Kelly Raudenbush (Myoverthinking.com) about her new venture, Project Puppy Love. Learn how she trains dogs to help families who have adopted or fostered children.

Halloween Spooktacular in downtown Ardmore. Celebrate the holiday with a mini parade and candy hunt. FREE Halloween Trick-or-Treat Bag Workshop at the Wayne Art Center, Wayne. $$$$ Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire: Halloween Daze and Spooky Nights Weekend at Mount Hope Estate and Winery, Manheim. $$$$ Philadelphia Shell Show at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. See Oct. 27. $$$ Spooky Mini Golf at Franklin Square, Phila. $$ Sundays on Stage: Keepers of the Culture at the Parkway Central Library, Phila. Listen to tales from African oral traditions and local African-American communities. FREE Trick-or-Treat Weekend at Storybook Land, Egg Harbor Twp., NJ. $$$$

30 Tuesday

Children's Nature Series: Creatures of the Night at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Stories and crafts focus on nocturnal animals often associated with Halloween. $

PERFORMANCES Seussical at the Players Club of Swarthmore, Swarthmore. Oct. 5-14. $$ Romeo and Juliet at the Academy of Music, Phila. Performed by the Pennsylvania Ballet. Oct. 11. $$$$ A Fairy Tale at the Montgomery Theater, Souderton. Oct. 19-28. $$$$ Young Frankenstein at the Spotlight Theatre, Swarthmore. Oct. 19-28. $$$$ Fiddler on the Roof at the Academy of Music, Phila. Oct. 23-28. $$$$ Log on to MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

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OCTOBER 2018

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

OCTOBER 2018

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 (7:45am to 5:45pm) and two-, three-, four-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 33

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

What are you looking for?

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

CHILD CARE

MetroKids.com/childcare

ENTERTAINMENT

PERFORMANCES

DAYCARE

Music, Art & Laughs!

Storybook Musical Theatre

Taking Applications NOW for

Making Magical Musical Memories

Adventures in Toyland

DRAWINGS, SONGS & SILLINESS

MrDavid.com 610 -239-8177

Dec. 12 to 30, 2018

Snow White

March 19 to March 31, 2019

Princess & the Pea

FALL ENROLLMENT Norristown Business Area

1920 Marshall Street Jeffersonville, PA 610-539-7743

May 7 - 18 & July 23 - Aug. 3 2019 All Shows at: Gratz College Theater, Melrose Park, PA

Subscribe Now! See All 3 Shows! Kids only $36, Adults: $42

www.storybookmusical.org

PARTIES

FESTIVALS

34 MetroKids.com

SCHOOLS

Brochure & Info: 215-659-8550

MetroKids - Oct./Nov. Edition

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

215-733-9271

6:00am-6:30pm Certified Teachers Member of Keystone Stars Program

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 OCTOBER 2018

Looking for the BEST school for your child? Browse the complete 2018-2019 Guide to Schools of the Delaware Valley on your favorite device to find information on over 200 independent schools that serve PreK-grade 12, including those that support learning differences. Benchmark School

2107 North Providence Road Media, PA 19063 610-565-3741 admissions@BenchmarkSchool.org www.BenchmarkSchool.org

Thurs., Nov. 8, 2018 Thurs., Feb. 7, 2019 Thurs., Apr. 4, 2019 Thurs., May 9, 2019 Thurs., July 18, 2019 ALL 9-11am

Benchmark Summer Camp: Language arts instruction and recreation program July 1-Aug. 2, 2019 Providing bright children who may exhibit dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, auditory processing difficulty or another learning difference with comprehensive, individualized instructional plans that create a formula for success.

Benchmark provides a comprehensive academic program tailored to the way each student learns best, fostering a mastery of executive function processes and 21st-century skills. The school’s passionate, gifted faculty uses the best current research and practices to develop a detailed understanding of each student’s strengths and challenges to create a profile that guides them in providing the most appropriate instruction for each student. Through an ongoing, ever-evolving continuum of communication and care, a team of teachers and counselors mentors students and works with their parents to develop the whole child. The history of Benchmark School is rich with success stories of thousands of alumni who know who they are as learners. They creatively apply the strategies they learn at Benchmark to take charge of their learning and meet with success in high school, college and their chosen fields. Benchmark graduates are self-advocates who understand their strengths and challenges, are persistent and resilient, confident in their abilities and have an expectation of success. Celebrating 48 years of helping bright students who have yet to reach their academic potential become confident and strategic thinkers, learners and problem solvers who meet with success in school and life.

Delaware Valley

Grades/ Ages

Enrollment Student: teacher ratio

Tuition Financial aid

AIM Academy 344 $34,912-$38,975 Grades Conshohocken 1-12 6-8:1 FAO, FAPE Aimpa.org; 215-483-2461 College-prep program for bright students with learning differences. LD

Support Services

Learning Strategies

Other services/ Ad page

, , OT, ST

PBIS, Orton Gillingham, SPA, Wilson Reading

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School Survey

ATG Learning Academy 30 , , $30,540 Association Method, Warminster; Atglearningacademy.com Grades K-12 FAO Wilson Reading 5:1 OT, ST 267-803-1751 Remedial language structure program strengthens weak cognitive capacities via computer, auditory & pen-and-paper exercises. COM, LD Benchmark School 178 Grades $35,200-$36,500 Language Media; Benchmarkschool.org , , ST 1-8 FAO decoding 3:1 610-565-3741 College-prep school for those with dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, auditory processing disorder and other learning differences. LD Camphill School, The Glenmoore; camphillschool.org 610-469-9236

Ages 4-21

110

Tuition on Request FAO

Waldorf

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Waldorf education rich in music, art & drama with various therapies and an animal/agricultural program. ASP, AUT, CP, DD, NI, PDD

Center School OrtonAges 95 $32,500 Abington; Centerschoolpa.org Gillingham, , ST FAO 6-14 8:1 p. 65 Wilson Reading 215-657-2200 Full curriculum for those with average or above-average learning potential and learning differences or a lack of reading and language skills. LD Concept School, The 30 Grades $20,750, Westtown; Theconceptschool.org Wilson Reading , , ST 7-12 Private pay 4:1 610-399-1135 Social thinking curric. for those who have difficulty focusing in class, struggle with reading comp. or find social interaction difficult. ASP, LD 100 Crefeld School; Phila. 19118 Grades $28,842-$32,918 Individualized p. 51 , Crefeld.org; 215-242-5545 7-12 FAO learning 5:1 Educates the whole child and provides a college-prep, hands-on and experiential curriculum with an emphasis on social justice. ASP, LD

Points of Pride: • Digital learning • Hearing tech • Counseling • Language decoding • Sports • Theater Grades: 1-8 Coed

of the

DIGITAL EDITION

Schools for Learning Differences/PA School, Location Website; Phone

Schools

In-Depth Profile

Transforming Futures. Empowering Success.

OPEN HOUSE DATES:

Guide

185 Delaware Valley Friends School Grades $33,950-$38,890 OrtonPaoli; Dvfs.org; 610-640-4150 3-12 FAO Gillingham 4:1 National recognized, coed, Quaker college-prep school for bright students who struggle with LDs in reading, writing, math, memory and more. LD

Enrollment: 180 S/T Ratio: 3:1

Tuition: $35,200-$36,500 Financial aid offered

Devereux PA - Brandywine 110 Ages PBIS, Trauma, , Glenmoore; Devereuxpa.org 7-18 FAPE informed care 12:1:1 OT, PT, ST 800-935-6789 Serves boys with a wide array of mental health, emotional & behavioral disorders, PDD and Tourette Syndrome. AUT, EMO, LD, PDD

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Devereux PA - Day School 50 Grades PBIS, Trauma, , Malvern; Devereuxpa.org FAPE 1-12 informed care 12:1:1 OT, PT, ST p. 62 484-595-6773 Serves students with a wide array of mental health, emotional & behavioral disorders, PDD, and Asperger syndrome. ASP, AUT, EMO, LD, PDD Devereux PA - Mapleton 50 Ages , , Malvern; Devereuxpa.org FAPE PBIS, Read 180 11-18 10:1:1 OT, PT, ST p. 62 610-935-6789 Multisensory education for males & females with mental health, emotional & behavioral disorders, ASDs, PDD & Asperger syndrome. AUT, EMO, LD, PDD Green Valley Academy; 75 Paoli and Parkesburg Grades ABA, Academic Club, FAO, FAPE Greenvalleyacademy.org 3-12+ PBIS 10:1 484-568-4409 Scholastic program that incorporates IEPs in low-enrollment classes with nurturing, support and mentoring. ASP, COM, DD, EMO, LD, PDD Hillside School 72 $24,500 Grades Macungie; Hillsideschool.org K-8 FAO, FAPE 8:1 610-967-3701 Rolling admissions at school for bright students with complex learning disabilities. LD

, OT, ST

Multisensory approach, Lindamood Bell

WHAT’S INSIDE:

At-a-glance surveys let parents view pertinent facts about regional schools and refer to In-Depth School Profiles for sponsor schools.

MetroKids.com/GuidetoSchools

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FAMILY FUN FOR FOUR PACKAGE including bowling, laser tag, game play, pizza and soda

$100 WORTH OF FOOD for the whole family for lunch or dinner.

$100 IN GIFT CERTICATES good at any of Rehoboth’s 130 stores, a coupon book and family fun shopping package

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ONE FREE HOUR for the family on the sports simulator9 holes of golf or any of 18 fun games

MetroKids.com/SouthernDETourism