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March 2019 | FREE

Smart. Local. Parenting.

Tikes & Teens

EXPLORE

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

Camp Abroad

PLUS: Dozens of Local Camps

HFS Summer Camp provides a welcoming community where campers are honored for their unique gifts and supported in growing to their full potential.

Age 2 - 2nd grade It's a Small World! Seuss Spectacular! Community Helpers Magnificent Magic! Hawaiian Adventure! Innovation and Imagination! Wilderness Expedition Halloween Hullabaloo! Awesome Art!

6/17 - 6/21 6/24 - 6/28 7/1 - 7/5 CLOSED 7/4 7/8 - 7/12 7/15 - 7/19 7/22 - 7/26 7/29 - 8/2 8/5 - 8/9 8/12 - 8/16

SummerCamp@hfsFriends.org •856-429-6786 • 47 N. Haddon Ave, Haddonfield, NJ 08033

hfsfriends.org/academics/summer_program

Simplicity Peace Integrity Community Equality Stewardship

OPEN HOUSE MARCH 7TH 9:30-11:00 AM 7:00-8:30 PM

APRIL 4TH

9:00 AM-NOON

TUESDAY MORNING TOURS • 8:30-9:30 AM

NOW ENROLLING

(856) 429-6786 | hfsfriends.org | admissions@hfsfriends.org 47 N. Haddon Avenue, Haddonfield, NJ 08033-2476

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MARCH 2019 Vol. 24, No. 3

Camp 2019 12 Teen Travel Camps 14 2019 Camp Directory

In This Issue 4 9 Secrets for New Moms 6 Find Quality Day Care 7 Win it! 8 How to Pick a Preschool 10 Occupy Your Little Explorer Family Fun 15 Day-by-Day Calendar 18 Cultivate Creativity

Ad Sections

3 Health; 6 Early Education 11 Camp; 19 Child Care

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MetroKids.com 3

Mom Matters

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

Got milk?

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

Doctor, doctor

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

Heavy lifting

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

Aaahh, spa day

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

4 MetroKids.com

mk smart. local. parenting.

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

Help me, help you

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

Don’t take it personally

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

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

Hush little mama

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

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

Oh, the drama

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

Emily Ondik ext. 105

Samantha Tuttle ext. 106

Classified Sales ext. 100

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

Ask and you shall receive

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

Cassi Denari is a freelance writer.

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

MARCH 2019

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Sundays, March 17 & April 14 11am-2pm

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An Enchanted Summer awaits Join us at an Open House! Save $100 per camper*

Tour our facility. Meet the directors. Enjoy crafts & food.

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Assistant Director Early Childhood Camps

MARCH 2019

Karen Cohen

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MetroKids.com 5

Sponsored

QUALITY

FIND CHILD CARE IN NJ Grow NJ Kids provides tools for parents to research child-care programs and for providers to improve.

By Susan Stopper Research shows that children who receive higher quality early child care are better prepared for school with stronger reading and math skills, larger vocabularies, and more advanced social and emotional development. How can parents find child-care programs that will deliver those benefits for their children? New Jersey has joined 40 other states, including Delaware and Pennsylvania, in offering a state-sponsored rating system of child-care and early-learning programs. Grow NJ Kids helps providers, who volunteer to participate, with the tools to assess and improve their programs. Participating programs are listed at GrownNJKids.gov and rated with one to five stars based on health and safety, curriculum and learning environment, family and community engagement, workforce and professional development of staff, and administration and management. Parents can search for participating programs based on location, rating, ages served or whether they are in a home or a center.

assessment process is so comprehensive. “It touches every part of the business, from how we wash hands, to the curriculum, to staff policies, to programs for parents,” says Wallen-Fort. “But the process is more important than the stars at the end. Every opportunity to improve along the way trickles down to the children.” The process has inspired Holding Hands to adopt a new research-based curriculum that blends learning into every part of the day. For instance, instead of working on reading at 10am and writing at 11am, reading and writing are integrated into all parts of the day, including playtime, so children see the connection of these skills to different aspects of their lives. “The curriculum is better matched to this stage of life when kids are active learners,” says Wallen-Fort. Holding Hands is aiming for more than three stars, but Wallen-Fort says that even a three-star rating indicates a quality program. “Star-rated programs exceed state licensing requirements. The difference between three, four and five stars may not be immediately apparent in the day-to-day experiences of the child or parent,” says Wallen-Fort. “It may be because the center offers one less parent workshop a year or does not participate in a home-visit program.”

Diﬀerentiation

Quality Standards

While the program is voluntary, Stephanie Wallen-Fort, director at Holding Hands Family Child Care and Play Center in Mullica Hill, NJ, says, “Our belief is that taking the step to participate shows our commitment to quality. We have always emphasized strong relationships between staff and the children, and that is a big part of this program.” Holding Hands enrolled in Grow NJ Kids in June 2018 but won’t receive a rating for 18 months to two years because the

6 MetroKids.com

While participating in Grow NJ Kids helps child-care providers meet quality standards, Wallen-Fort explains that providers can still differentiate themselves through individual philosophies and implementation techniques. For instance, Holding Hands is committed to flexible schedules that accommodate parents whose work schedules change or who only need one day of care a week. Providers can also choose how to implement rating standards. For example, all programs that participate must have a parent-communication policy, but how they communicate is the provider’s decision. Wallen-Fort says at Holding Hands they send lots of photos so parents can see their children as they learn and play. These individual differences, paired with Grow NJ Kids’ ratings, can help parents find a quality program that fits their needs and preferences. Susan Stopper is a freelance writer.

MARCH 2019

Are You Looking CONTACT US! for Child Care in Camden County? The Department of Children’s Services is here to assist you with: 

Child Care Referrals and Options.

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Selecting a quality child care program that meets the needs of your family.

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Department of Children’s Services 856.374.6376 children@camdencounty.com

Win It!

S uhpeeeerrrrooeess, ,

PRIZES Little ones are always on the move! Disney’s Frozen Quad Skates are just what they need. Adjustable between junior sizes 1-4, the skates are made of impactresistant polymer plastic and feature a safety strap closure. (Playwheels; 4+; $35) The Big Book of Superhero Bedtime Stories — written by Philly-based author Noah Smith — gives heroes-in-training a peek into the night-time routines of their fave DC characters. They’ll get answers to questions like: Does Batman sleep upside down like a bat? Or, does Green Lantern use his power battery as a nightlight? ($16.99) Log on to MetroKids.com/winit and enter to win your favorite prize, beginning March 1. MARCH 2019

MetroKids.com 7

Education

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

Ask questions

Look for these qualities

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

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

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

Visit schools

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

Find More Online • • • •

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

MARCH 2019

Moorestown Friends School Moorestown Friends School offers exceptional education for students in preschool through grade 12. We offer small classes, academic rigor and highly qualified teachers who encourage children to achieve their potential in a caring environment. This individual attention grows out of respect for the individual, a Quaker value that is at the heart of our enduring spiritual and ethical education. We welcome students of all faiths; only a small portion of our student body is Quaker. While many schools are transactional, MFS is transformational: We help children develop into better people. Starting in preschool, students learn life skills, from listening, fair play and cooperation to critical thinking, conflict management and decision making by consensus. We produce ethical, resilient young people, virtually all of whom go on to four-year colleges. Our average SAT scores are typically the highest in South Jersey by a significant margin. A cutting-edge Coding program, one of the few in the United States, is offered for students in preschool–grade 5.

HALF + FULL DAY PROGRAMS JUNE 17TH - AUGUST 30TH

Open Houses

Open Open Houses Houses -April -April 7th 7th May May 19th 19th

March 30th, April 11th & May 18th

Visit an Open House to see our school community for yourself! Dates can be found at www.mfriends.org. 110 East Main Street Moorestown, NJ 08057 856-914-4426 • www.mfriends.org

Great Kids Start Early Please join us at an upcoming Open House:

Tuesday, Apr. 16, 9 a.m.

Learn about our Coding Program! For more information or to RSVP, call (856) 914-4426, email admiss@mfriends.org or visit www.beginningsatmfs.org. 110 E. Main St., Moorestown, NJ 08057

MARCH 2019

Preschool • Prekindergarten • Kindergarten MetroKids.com 9

Parenting

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

Put together a book of facts.

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

Make up a scavenger hunt. Draw

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

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

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

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

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

Art museums They offer a variety of activities

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

Natural history museums Here kids can

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

Youth theatre Look for one in your region

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

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

MARCH 2019

Summer Camp

continued from p. 6

at Chesterbrook Academy • • • • • • •

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

For more information, visit ChesterbrookAcademy.com/Camp

CBA_MetroKids-Camp-Mar19_7.25x4.625.indd 1

2/13/19 9:48 AM

Open House- March 16, April 13 and May 18

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

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CAMP

MetroKids.com 11

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

Camp Camp

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

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

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

CAMP

MARCH 2019

THE #1 STEM CAMP

FOR AGES 7–19

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

Get a brochure and ﬁnd a camp near you!

Join our team. Flexible hours and options

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

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MetroKids.com 13

Camp Directory

GLOUCESTER

Navigate the directory by focusing on your preferences for: • Geographic area: Camps are grouped by county & outlying areas. • Category: Each description is prefaced by camp type — day, program, residential, special needs or travel. • Special features: See the key at the bottom of the page. Find a searchable version at MetroKids.com/camps. Contact camps to express interest and mention you saw their listing in MetroKids. BURLINGTON Camp Creek Run 199 Taunton Lake Rd., Marlton; 856-596-4250 campcreekrun@yahoo.com Campcreekrun.com

DAY Get close to nature at Camp Creek Run! Located in Marlton on 50 wooded acres, we offer certified teachers; sports, arts & nature programs; fishing & boating; swim instruction; pools; archery range; nature center; hiking trails; basketball, volleyball & gaga courts; challenge course; pollinator and vegetable gardens; and farm sanctuary.

NEW ESF Summer Camps

DAY ESF’s award-winning traditional, sports and specialty camps for ages 3-15, combine Education, Sports & Fun and offer 60+ activities for every interest. Join us for an Open House. Enroll online today!

Future Scholars Early Learning Center 1351 Rt. 38 W., B-1, Hainesport 609-518-1333 admin@futurescholarslearning.com Futurescholarslearning.com

DAY Summer Camp offers full & half days with various schedules available. Activities include field trips & in-house visitors along with science experiments, water play, cooking classes, music & sports, just to name a few! We continue to educate your child through our theme-based activities & curriculum so your child won’t fall behind this summer. Private tutoring available. 6:30am-6:30pm.

JCC Camps at Medford 400 Tuckerton Rd., Medford 856-751-1666 jcccampsatmedford.org

DAY, TRAVEL JCC Camps at Medford enriches children’s lives by teaching values and life skills in a fun, safe and inclusive Jewish environment, while building confidence, sharing successes and creating lasting friendships. Camp is built on the fundamental values of family, love, respect, justice and charity, ACA CIT SN compassion and kindness.

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

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

Moorestown Friends School Summer Programs 110 E. Main St., Moorestown 856-914-4493 mcameron@mfriends.org Summer.mfriends.org

DAY The Summer Scholars Program options include innovative and exciting approaches to science, robotics, technology, STEM, sports, design, thinking, arts, economics and more. In addition, Academic Transitions courses offer the chance for your child to improve in math, writing and study skills. Many Summer Programs Master Teachers are MFS teachers and department heads, most of whom hold advanced degrees from prestigious universities.

William Allen Middle School 801 N. Stanwick Rd., Moorestown NJ 08057 Info@esfcamps.com esfcamps.com

CAMDEN COUNTY Early Childhood Camps at the Katz JCC 1301 Springdale Rd., Cherry Hill 856-424-4444 ext. 1242 donnasnyder@jfedsnj.org Katzjcc.org/ecccamps

DAY Early Childhood Camps at the Katz JCC, an award-winning summer day camp, is the place for little campers ages 2-5 to have big fun! Through STEM activities, creative arts, theater, music, sports, swim lessons, cooking and more, our professional camp staff ensure your child has a fun summer SN experience.

Haddonﬁeld Friends School Summer Camp 47 N. Haddon Ave., Haddonfield 856-429-6786 ext. 211 Hfsfriends.org

DAY All activities are supervised by trained, experienced, certified educators. Each session incorporates an ageappropriate enrichment theme such as music, sports, cooperative games, crafts, drama, computers, science, cultural connections, nature study & water play. Many theme weeks culminate with events, performances & trips.

NEW Studio Brilliante

DAY Brand new to instruments? Try our Rhythm Explorers or Intro to Instruments day camps! Have a little experience? Sign up for a week-long intensive! Spend time in group music lessons, games, and explore the musical world! K-12th Grade.

Super Star Summer Camp 5 Larwin Rd., Cherry Hill 856-795-4599 theGCAcademy.com

DAY Super Star Summer Camp is where kids learn how to be awesome. We offer a variety of activities for children to enjoy, including swimming, ninja obstacle courses, flip-training, basketball, soccer, gymnastics, tumbling, cheerleading, arts & crafts and more. SN

125 Veterans Ln., Haddonfieldstudiobrilliante.com/summercamp.html

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

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

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

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

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

DAY Book your child’s best week of the summer at South Central PA’s favorite ski resort where campers enjoy a multitude of adventure-based activities including zip lines, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, archery, paintball, OGO balls, high and low ropes courses, the super slide, chairlift rides and much more. All right here on our beautiful 1200 acre mountain property. Day and residential camps available. Residential housing is in air-conditioned mountain chalets. CIT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RESIDENTIAL, TRAVEL No other marine science camp offers as many face-to-face encounters to closely observe and study whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and puffins in their own natural habitat. Board our research vessel for unmatched opportunities to observe marine life. Explore beaches, coastal trails and fishing villages on beautiful Grand Manan Island. Ask about our $40,000 College Scholarships, STEM projects & College Credits.

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

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

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

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

MERCER

OUTLYING AREAS

Key: Extended hours Oﬀers ﬁnancial aid Part-day or part-week sessions Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training program SN: Some special needs may be accommodated

14 MetroKids.com

MARCH 2019

Family Fun

Show off your green gear at North Wildwood's St. Patrick's Day Celebration, March 16.

MARCH

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR

Special needs event

Philadelphia Flower Show

March 2-10

Editor's Pick

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

1 Friday

Celebrating Seuss at the Gloucester Twp. Library, Blackwood. See “Town & County,” p. 17. FREE Dr. Seuss’s Funtastical Night at the Burlington County Library, Westampton. See “Town & County,” p. 17. FREE

2 Saturday

Emerald Isle Irish Dancers perform at the Garden State Discovery Museum, Cherry Hill. $$$

Harlem Globetrotters

3 Sunday

Jersey Crocs Rule at the New Jersey State Museum, Trenton. Discover the evolution of crocodiles, alligators and gharials via demos and specimens. Through June 8. FREE Maple-Sugaring Brunch at the Watershed Institute, Pennington. Learn about the history and science behind maple sugaring, then enjoy pancakes topped with the sweet stuff. $$$$ Paleopalooza at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. Explore the world of dinosaurs while you view a rarely seen fossil collection, watch presentations by paleontologists, meet reptiles and get hands-on at learning stations. $$$

Mother-Daughter Art Retreat

15 Friday

MARCH 2019

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

Sensory-friendly Laurie Berkner Concert at the McCarter Theatre, Princeton. This acoustic show features adjusted light and sound levels and designated quiet areas. $$$$

3 Sunday

Family Arts Academy: Portrait Blueprints at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make mixed-media portraits from unusual materials. FREE First Sunday Family Day: More Than Meets the Eye at the Barnes Foundation, Phila. Check out student artwork and solve a math mystery in the galleries. FREE Harlem Globetrotters at the Wells Fargo Center, Phila. $$$$ Once Upon a Time Family Festival at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Festivities include book making and a performance by the Pennsylvania Ballet II. Pay what you wish Paleopalooza at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila. See March 2. $$$ Winterfest Closing Day at Blue Cross RiverRink, Phila. Take one more whirl around the iceskating rink before it closes for the season. $$

mk smart. local. parenting. MetroKids.com 15

4 Monday

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

6 Wednesday

Seussology! at the Ferry Avenue Library, Camden. See “Town & County,” p. 17. FREE Storytime: The Night Before St. Patrick’s Day at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. Kids paint a shamrock handprint plate after the tale. $$$

7 Thursday

Storytime: The Night Before St. Patrick’s Day at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See March 6. $$$

8 Friday

Special Evening at Sam’s at Sahara Sam’s Oasis, West Berlin. Kids with special needs and their families enjoy a judgment-free evening featuring quiet rooms, modified lighting and sound, a relaxed dress code and the option to bring your own snacks. $$$

9 Saturday

Family Fun Concert: Jumpin' Jamie at the Hopewell Theater, Hopewell. $$$

Spirit Brands National Cheerleading Championship at the Wildwood Convention Center, Wildwood. $$

14 Thursday

Preschool Nature Class: Spring of Life at the Watershed Institute, Pennington. Little ones engage in outdoor exploration, stories and crafts. $$

15 Friday Mother-Daughter Art Retreat at Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, Elmer. Activities include painting, jewelry making and fused-glass workshops, yoga, dancing and a campfire. $$$$

16 Saturday

Night at the Movies at Masonic Home of New Jersey's Fellowship Center, Burlington. The Golden Eagle Community Band performs Hollywood hits from the 20th and 21st centuries. $$ Night at the Museum: Myths and Legends at the Academy of Natural Science, Phila. This slumber party features a scavenger hunt, animal presentation and exhibit exploration. $$$$ St. Patrick’s Day Celebration and Parade at City Hall, North Wildwood. FREE

17 Sunday

Family Hike at the Watershed Institute, Pennington. FREE

Family Arts Academy: Drawing in Motion at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make a series of drawings and paintings that explore simple animation methods. FREE

PNC Grow Up Great at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Phila. Kids are introduced to jazz and musical theatre. FREE

Community Night at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

Scout Day: Girl Scouts of the USA at the National Constitution Center, Phila. See March 4. $$$ Spirit Brands National Cheerleading Championship at the Wildwood Convention Center, Wildwood. $$ Storytime: The Night Before St. Patrick’s Day at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See March 6. $$$

10 Sunday

18 Monday

19 Tuesday

Read and Explore: Getting Ready for Spring at Terhune Orchards, Princeton. Read a themed story, then plant seeds to take home. $$

20 Wednesday

Storytime: If Elephants Wore Pants at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. Kids paint a picture of the animal following the tale. $$$

21 Thursday

Family Arts Academy: Collaged Connections at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make a masterpiece using patterns inspired by works in the galleries. FREE

Storytime: If Elephants Wore Pants at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See March 20. $$$

PECO Family Jams: Alebrije Animals at Philadelphia's Magic Gardens, Phila. Get inspired by a form of Mexican folk art to create colorful animal-themed works. $$

Intro to 3D Printing at the Franklin Institute, Phila. $$$$

23 Saturday

FAB FREEBIE

Celebrate creativity and ingenuity during the Makers Faire, March 23, at Westampton’s Burlington County Library, as part of the statewide Maker Day. Families learn about “maker” culture, meet reps from local businesses and organizations, watch demos and enjoy hands-on tech fun, DIY projects, crafts and STEM activities. 16 MetroKids.com

MARCH 2019

Family Fun

Makers Faire at the Burlington County Library, Westampton. See “Fab Freebie,” p. 16. FREE Nature Program: Rain, Rain, I’m Not Going Away at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge, Medford. Dig in the dirt, peek in bushes and check out trees to find where animals and insects hide during inclement weather. FREE

Girl Scouts Passport Around the World at the Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood. Travel from table to table to experience crafts, games, songs, traditions and food from cultures across the globe. $$ Sensory-friendly Sunday at the Franklin Institute, Phila. FREE

Read and Explore: Getting Ready for Spring at Terhune Orchards, Princeton. See March 19. $$

Sensory-friendly Sunday at National Constitution Center, Phila. $$$

Scout Day: Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA at the National Constitution Center, Phila. Scouts learn about American history and citizenship while they work toward merit badge and adventure requirements. $$$

Preschool Nature Class: Nature’s Symphony at the Watershed Institute, Pennington. See March 14. $$

SMASH: Crocs at the New Jersey State Museum, Trenton. Explore the portrayals of crocodiles in folklores, myths, art and pop culture. FREE

Nowruz Festival at the Penn Musuem, Phila. Meaning “new day” in Persian, this ancient spring celebration features cultural performances, art projects, storytelling, workshops and a bazaar. $$$

Storytime: If Elephants Wore Pants at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. See March 20. $$$ World Water Day Festival at the Watershed Institute, Pennington. Partake in the “Water Olympics,” explore the brook and take a water taste-test challenge. $

24 Sunday

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

Town & County: Read Across America

28 Thursday 30 Saturday

31 Sunday

Paint with the Easter Bunny at All Fired Up!, Collingswood. $$$$

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

Oh, the places you’ll go when you celebrate Dr. Seuss’s 115th birthday and Read Across America Day (March 2) at your local library! BURLINGTON COUNTY Learn a thing or two about Thing 1 and Thing 2 during Dr. Seuss’s Funtastical Night March 1 at the Burlington County Library in Westampton, complete with crafts, games and stories. CAMDEN COUNTY Stop by the Gloucester Twp. Library March 1 for the Celebrating Seuss event featuring crafts and treats. Over at the Ferry Avenue Library on March 6, the Seussology! program — hosted by the Cat in the Hat — dives into the author’s background and his beloved books. GLOUCESTER COUNTY The Glassboro Library knows how to party! Festivities at Dr. Seuss Day on March 2 include a magic show, a Cat in the Hat-inspired photo booth, and stories and games based on Seuss’s work.

PERFORMANCES Bye Bye Birdie at the Burlington County Footlighters, Riverton. March 8-10 & 15-17. $$ Peter and the Starcatcher at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. March 8-10 & 15-17. $$$$ A Sick Day for Amos McGee at the Kelsey Theatre, West Windsor. March 16. $$$$ Swan Lake at the State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick. Performed by the Russian National Ballet. March 16. $$$$ Finding Neverland (pictured) at the State Theatre New Jersey, New Brunswick. March 22 & 23. $$$$ Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day at WheatonArts, Millville. Performed by Surflight Theatre. March 23. FREE

MARCH 2019

MetroKids.com 17

Family Fun

Cultivate Creativity

Art classes and workshops for teens

Grounds for Sculpture, Hamilton Workshops for ages 10-14, inspired by exhibits at the sculpture park, combine guided gallery exploration and experimentation with a variety of materials and techniques.

Markeim Arts Center, Haddonﬁeld

NEW JERSEY

Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, Elmer Middle and high schoolers from Gloucester and Salem counties take part in the Teen Arts Festival, this year on April 19. Participants contribute their talent to exhibits and performances, receive feedback from professionals and get creative with new and familiar media during workshops.

Kids up to age 15 can enroll in after-school courses themed to pottery, drawing and wheel throwing.

Perkins Center for the Arts, Collingswood & Moorestown From classes in pottery, painting and jewelry design to comic-book illustration and calligraphy, there’s no shortage of ways for middle- and high-school students to hone their skills here.

PHILLY

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

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Saturday classes, week-long summer intensives and pre-college programs give high schoolers the opportunity to build a portfolio and hone their talent with guidance from faculty. Log on to MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

18 MetroKids.com

Free Fun for the

Whole Family These spots offer no-cost, all-ages programming on select dates. Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center, Millville Stop by for family workshops on select Saturdays. Coming up this month, brush up on the basics of printmaking, collagraphs and sculpture. The Barnes Foundation, Phila. First Sunday Family Day events feature themed activities and performances. Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Family Arts Academy, held weekly on Sunday, focuses on a different medium each session. Upcoming projects feature collages, fused plastic and filmmaking.

MARCH 2019

Child Care & Early Education Directory

FY: Full Year AY: Academic Year SP: Summer Program MP: Meals Provided

BS: Before School AS: After School DA: Diapers Accepted TP: Transportation Provided

SN: Special Needs DHS*: Licensed: Dept. of Health & Human Serv. DE*: Licensed: Dept. of Education DYF: Licensed: Dept. of Youth & Family Serv.

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

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

BURLINGTON COUNTY

CAMDEN COUNTY (continued)

BEGINNINGS AT MFS: THE MOORESTOWN FRIENDS SCHOOL Early Childhood Program, 110 E. Main St., Moorestown, NJ 856-914-4428 • MFriends.org Ages: 3 & up • Hours: 8:05am-3:10pm Beginnings at MFS: The Moorestown Friends School Early Childhood Program offers a values-based education for 3-year-olds and up. A project-based approach to learning and wide range of special subject areas are hallmarks of the experience. Moorestown Friends School is one of the only schools in the United States to offer a Coding Program to all Lower School students - Preschool through Grade 4. This innovative program has three strands: coding, problem solving and teamwork. These skills will be in high demand as the 21st century progresses. Half-day and full-day Preschool is available. Prekindergarten and Kindergarten are full-day programs. AY, SP, BS, AS, MSCES

SOUTH JERSEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 406 Church Rd., Sicklerville, NJ • 856-728-2001 www.sjchristianacademy.org • Ages: PK - 7th Grade • Hours: 8:15am-3pm M-F South Jersey Christian Academy offers an affordable Christian education for students, Preschool through 7th Grade, in the South Jersey area. We educate today’s children to be tomorrow’s Christian leaders. AY, BS, AS

ESSENTIAL BEGINNINGS LEARNING CENTER 1329 Rte. 38, Hainsport, NJ 609-667-7838 • info@essentialbeginningslc.com Essentialbeginningslc.com • Ages: 2-1/2 yrs.-13 yrs. Hours 6:30am - 6:00pm Essential Beginnings embraces the differentiation approach to teaching. This method ensures that all children can learn the content based on their learning style. FY, AY, SP, SN, DYF FUTURE SCHOLARS EARLY LEARNING CENTER 1351 Rte. 38 W., B-1, Hainesport, NJ 609-518-1333 • FutureScholarsLearning.com Ages: 6 wks.-13 yrs. • Hours: 6:30am-6:30pm “Where Generations Come and Grow” Full- and half-day classes available year round. Family-owned and operated with an owner on premises daily. Offering Infant & Toddler Care, PreSchool, Drop-In Hourly Daycare, Established Full-Day Kindergarten, Before- and After-School Care with bussing for township students, Private Tutoring and Summer Camp! We are your one-stop solution for early education and child care! STOP BY TODAY FOR A TOUR! FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DYF OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 32 W. Main St., Moorestown, NJ • 856-235-5371 • www.olgcnj.org/school Ages: 4 yrs.-6 yrs. • Hours: 8:30am-3pm • school@olgcnj.org Our Lady of Good Counsel School features full- and half-day pre-kindergarten programs, as well as full-day kindergarten. Children in first through eighth grades are educated in a top-notch, Catholic school environment, where our mission to form students in the image of Jesus Christ is reinforced daily. We provide education in music, art, specialized clubs, sports, after-school enrichment programs such as Lego Robotics and Latin, Spanish, technology, and physical education. Students do not need to be Catholic to attend our school. Please call to arrange a tour. Financial aid and volunteer opportunities available. AY, SP, AS

GLOUCESTER COUNTY BUILDING BLOCKS CHILDCARE Applewood Dr., Logan Township • 856-975-6247 www.buildingblockscc.vpweb.com • Ages: 6 wks-12 yrs • Hours: 24 hours Building Blocks Childcare is a 24-hr. home care facility. We have daily age-appropriate activities. We also go on local trips to the park and library, as well as field trips. We are very flexible and have rates from daily to rates that include overtime. We also accept Rutgers vouchers. Rutgers Resource and Referral. FY, MP, BS, AS, DA, TP, SN HOLDING HANDS FAMILY CHILD CARE & PLAY CENTER 138 Tomlin Station Rd., Mullica Hill, NJ • 856-467-6811 Ages: Infant-School Age • Hours: 6am-6:30pm A place for families providing exceptional care, engaged learning and everyday play. A full-service center in a new facility with a gym, three playgrounds, access control system and video monitoring. FY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS*

BUCKS COUNTY BRIGHT BEGINNERS ACADEMY 800 Clarmont Ave., Suite A, Bensalem, PA 19020 267-520-7200 • http://brightbeginnersacademy.com Ages: 6 wks.- 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

CAMDEN COUNTY BEECHWOOD SCHOOL, PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN 441 Beechwood Ave., Haddonfield, NJ • 856-429-0303 • TheBeechwoodSchool.com • Ages: 2½ yrs.-K Preschool, Kindergarten, Childcare. Beechwood School is a family-owned, independent, statelicensed school since 1951. We offer both half-day and full-day classes year round for children 2½ through kindergarten. Call for a tour. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DYF PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF CHERRY HILL 1875 Rt. 70 East., Cherry Hill, NJ 8856-242-0034 • www.primrosecherryhill.com Ages: 6 wks.-Pre-K • Hours: 6:30am to 6:00pm Primrose Schools® is a national system of accredited private preschools that provides a premier early education and child care experience for children and families. Our Franchise Owners, Leadership Teams and School Staff partner with parents to help build the right foundation for future learning and in life. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, MP, DA, SN, NAEYC

SARI ISDANER EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER AT THE KATZ JCC 1301 Springdale Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ • 856-424-4444 • KatzJCC.org/ECE Ages: 6 wks.-K • Hours: 6:45am-6:15pm, M-Th; 6pm, F The Sari Isdaner Early Childhood Center at the Katz JCC is an award-winning program and leader in early childhood education. We offer full day infant/toddler care as of six weeks old, nursery school, preschool, full day certified Kindergarten, pre-K and transitional Kindergarten. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DHS*, DE, NAEYC SHINING LIGHTS PRESCHOOL AND DAYCARE CENTER 1720 Springdale Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ • 856-424-4915 www.shininglightsonline.org • Ages: 6 wks.-5 yrs. • Hours: 7:00am-6pm M-F Bible-based curriculum designed by our degreed director and certified teachers focuses on your child’s individual needs. Each classroom boasts hands-on exploration and discovery promoting learning centers. Small class sizes allow a variety of programs, which include: field trips, holiday shows, cooking projects and themed days. State-of-the-art security system and fenced-in playground. FY, AY, SP, DA, DYF

MARCH 2019

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

FREE TO ENTER! enter at MetroKids.com/coverkids

Deadline: July 1, 2019 MetroKids.com 19

We help our students put their learning wheels in motion!

Private Special Education … an Option You Should Know About! Sometimes, it starts with a twinkle in the eye. Just a little spark of curiosity that soon blossoms into a journey of discovery, learning and achievement. That’s because at our private special education schools, we see beyond a child’s disability, and awaken the joy and creative expression within. Our schools are welcoming places where students feel at home and are able to enjoy a rich and rewarding social life. Our students feel cherished, well cared for and respected for a very good reason—it is part of our mission and our commitment. Students at our special education schools experience a school day as it should be—filled with discovery, achievement, learning and friendship. Here, they have people they know they can count on—outstanding teachers, therapists, counselors, psychologists and job coaches who constantly encourage and support them.

With individualized attention, on-site therapies and vocational training, our schools deliver unparalleled services for students with special needs. Our New Jersey Department of Education certified special education teachers, licensed therapists and counselors provide expert, advanced instruction and support … along with plenty of smiles.

These unique services are provided at NO COST for families. Find out if private special education is the right fit for your child. Our staff can help answer your questions. To find out more about what programs may be right for your child, call us at 1-800-697-8555 or visit SpecialEducationSchools.org