THE CITY’S BEST STORES FOR NURSERY AND KIDS FURNISHINGS MARCH 2012
March 2012
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FEATURES
COLUMNS
50 | AUDRA’S SONG
12 | EDITOR’S NOTE
Triumphant In Her Return To Broadway In Porgy And Bess, Audra McDonald Would Be The First To Say That Her Favorite Role Is Being A Mom
The Voice Of Inspiration
HOME & DESIGN 56 | For City Parents, The Search For A New Apartment Usually Goes Hand-In-Hand With Schooling Yourself About Local Education 62 | How Organic Living Expert And NYC Mom Alexandra Zissu Keeps Her Loft Clean, Cozy And Eco-Friendly 66 | The City’s Best Shopping For Nurseries And Kids Rooms—Plus Favorite Finds
FAMILY FUN GUIDE 16 | 10 GREAT EVENTS FOR MARCH 20 | THEATER Four New Shows On Broadway Expected To Score Big With Adults And Kids This Spring
HOME & AWAY
14 | CONTESTS & SPECIAL EVENTS A Plaza Hotel babymoon giveaway, the 7th Annual Carnival For A Cure, the 9th Annual Young Child Expo & Conference, plus GODSPELL tickets
22 | SCOOP The new giggle app, a Gaga Center for kids opens, The Kid Dictionary releases and more
24 | TREATS Greens & Blues: Springtime Kids Fashion Has A Focus On Al Fresco Hues
32 | PARENT IN PROFILE How Heidi Green Became One Of The City’s Go-To Family Photographers While Raising A Family On Her Own
34 | STARTING OUT Six Key Ways To Creating A Great Parenting Partnership
36 | NEW PARENT ESSENTIALS A Quick Guide To New And Exciting Products For Infants
72 | SPRING TRAVEL
40 | ACTIVITY OF THE MONTH
Five Family-Friendly Vacation Ideas For Spring
Young City Athletes Talk Spring Sports
74 | QUALITY TIME
46 | A GOOD IDEA
A Well-Stocked Arts & Crafts Cabinet Can Inspire Creativity In Children
Kimberley Clayton Blaine’s “Emotion Coaching,” Favors Empathy And Relationship-Building To Address Classic Childhood Challenges
76 | IN THE KITCHEN The Naptime Chef, Kelsey Banfield, Is Helping Hungry Parents Find Their Way Back To Enjoyable Home Cooking
78 | CAMP COUNTDOWN Serving Children With Special Diets And Allergies, Camps Are Putting A Lot More Effort Into Offering Cuisine That Is Nutritious And Tasty
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48 | A SPECIAL PLACE Karma Kids Yoga Now Offers Its Unique Mix Of Flexibility, Focus And Fun At A New Studio Catered To Adults
82 | THE LAST WORD To Ballet Or Not To Ballet?: A Mom Struggles With Whether To Enroll Her Daughter In A Popular Dance Class Or Hold Onto Free Family Time
MARCH
newyorkfamily.com
The Cover: Photography by Josh Lehrer (joshlehrer.com). Styled by beckiemartina, re-stylists (beckiemartina.com). Dress by Pamella Roland. Earrings & Ring by Kenneth Jay Lane. Bracelets by Ben-Amun. Hair by Chloma Valcourt. Make-up by Nikki Wang. Shot on location at the Dicapo Opera Theatre. www.newyorkfamily.com
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EdiTOr ANd CO-PUBLiSHEr Eric Messinger emessinger @ manhattanmedia.com SENiOr EdiTOr Whitney Casser wcasser @ manhattanmedia.com ASSOCiATE EdiTOr Kat Harrison kharrison @manhattanmedia.com ArT dirECTOr George W. Widmer gwidmer @manhattanmedia.com PrOdUCTiON MANAgEr Ed Johnson ejohnson @ manhattanmedia.com ASSiSTANT PrOdUCTiON MANAgEr Quarn Corley
www.naturino.com toll free 866 Falc USA
qcorley @ manhattanmedia.com PHOTO EdiTOr Andrew Schwartz aschwartz@ manhattanmedia.com CONTriBUTiNg PHOTOgrAPHErS Heidi Green, Thaddeus Harden, Michael Jurick CONTriBUTiNg WriTErS Sharon Beesley, Jessica Kobrin Bernstein, Meghan Gearino, Elizabeth Raymond, Joy Sherwood, Briehn Trumbauer, Mia Weber, Stephanie Wolf PUBLiSHEr John Hurley 212-268-3086, jhurley @ manhattanmedia.com ASSOCiATE PUBLiSHEr Mary Ann Oklesson maoklesson @ manhattanmedia.com SENiOr ACCOUNT MANAgEr Gina Waldman gwaldman @ manhattanmedia.com ACCOUNT MANAgEr Jennifer Lesser jlesser @manhattanmedia.com SPECiAL PrOjECTS dirECTOr Alex Schweitzer aschweitzer @ manhattanmedia.com NEW YOrk BABY SHOW Rebecca Martin 212-284-9732, rmartin @ manhattanmedia.com ASSiSTANT TO THE PUBLiSHEr Laura Mishkin lmishkin @ manhattanmedia.com CirCULATiON Joe Bendik jbendik@ manhattanmedia.com AdVErTiSiNg COOrdiNATOr Jennie Valenti jvalenti @ manhattanmedia.com BUSiNESS MANAgEr Shawn Scott sscott@ manhattanmedia.com ACCOUNTS MANAgEr Kathy Pollyea kpollyea @ manhattanmedia.com Manhattan Media PrESidENT/CEO Tom Allon tallon @ manhattanmedia.com CFO/COO Joanne Harras jharras @ manhattanmedia.com FOUNdiNg PUBLiSHEr Barbara Witt dirECTOr OF iNTErACTiVE MArkETiNg ANd digiTAL STrATEgY Jay Gissen jgissen @ manhattanmedia.com WEB PrOdUCTiON COOrdiNATOr Kathryn Fortuno kfortuno @manhattanmedia.com
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EDITOR’S NOTE
THE VOICE OF INSPIRATION Even though my 11-year-old daughter Elena is never going to be a professional singer, she loves watching reality show singing contests like American Idol and The Voice, and has also been known to spend time on YouTube re-playing her favorite performances. I like her interest in these shows because it’s a taste we share—and because they expose her to much more music than she might have otherwise heard just tuning in to the latest pop hits. So I was really excited for Elena when it turned out that our cover shoot with Audra McDonald was happening late enough on a Friday afternoon that she could sit in on it. Mind you, she’s never heard McDonald sing or seen her act, but her interest was definitely piqued when I explained how McDonald—now starring in Porgy and Bess—is one of Broadway’s biggest stars and has one of the greatest singing voices of our time. To bring the point home, I said something like, “You know all those singers on American Idol? She’s better.” As it turned out, McDonald’s daughter
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Zoe is only a few months apart in age from Elena, so when I introduced them McDonald knew exactly how to put Elena at ease, chatting knowledgeably about video games and asking Elena about her school and outside passions. As much as McDonald’s extraordinary voice helps us connect with our deepest emotions and aspirations, meeting her at the cover shoot was more grounding and real, and in a way more inspiring for both me and my daughter. McDonald seemed wise, pleasant, down-to-earth, strong and maternal—and I think this is just the person you’ll meet in our feature interview (page 50). When I think about other the stories in this issue that I wish to highlight, a number of them have to do with similar kinds of inspiring people. Green guru and NYC mom Alexandra Zissu comes right to mind (page 62), so does The Naptime Chef Kelsey Banfield (page 76). I would also make that case for Matt Schneider and Lance Somerfeld, the co-founders of the NYC Dads Group, who
Backstage with Audra wrote a very insightful story about how to better your parenting partnerships (page 34). And what about all those great young athletes who shared with us what they love about their sports (page 40)? I can’t put a face on some of the other stories, but I think there’s a lot of inspiration to be found in our round-ups of spring clothes (page 24) and children’s room furnishings (page 66), as well. Happy March, ERIC MESSINGER EDITOR emessinger@manhattanmedia.com
www.newyorkfamily.com
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Milstein Science Series
Extremophiles: LIFE IN EXTREME ENVIRONMENTS SUNDAY, MARCH 11
11 am – 4 pm Milstein Hall of Ocean Life Free with Museum admission
M
any organisms on Earth survive in extreme environments, from bacteria that live inside Antarctica’s solid ice to tube worms that thrive in volcanic vents on the ocean floor. In this program for the whole family, explore activity stations, meet scientists, and find out how they study “extremophiles.” You’ll also discover how their research may offer clues to finding life on other planets.
Proudly sponsored by the Paul and Irma Milstein Family. Open Daily | Central Park West at 79th St. | 212-769-5100 | amnh.org
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N e w yo r k fa m i ly c o N t e s t s & s p e c i a l e v e N t s
The New York Baby Show This Spring!
The New York Baby Show will take place the weekend of May 19 and 20. To be informed about event news and ticket sales, send us a brief note with your email address and you’ll be the first to hear when registration opens! Email us at newyorkbabyshow@manhattanmedia.com. TheRightCamp.com Launches
The New York Family Camp Fairs will be visiting Downtown Manhattan on Saturday, March 10, Brooklyn on Sunday, March 11 and the Upper East Side on Saturday, March 31—allowing parents to meet with directors from dozens of summer camps. For more info, visit newyorkfamilycamps.com. You can also visit therightcamp.com to generate a custom-made list of the best camps for your child.
9th Annual Young Child Expo & Conference
The 9th Annual Young Child Expo & Conference will take place April 18-20 at the Hotel Pennsylvania across from Madison Square Garden. Focusing on essential topics in early childhood development, this conference will help professionals address the special needs of normally developing children, as well as those with developmental disabilities. For more info and to register, visit youngchildexpo.com.
7th Annual Carnival For A Cure
On Sunday, March 11, join the Diabetes Research Institute for an afternoon filled with family entertainment and activities— for a good cause! With prizes to win, special guests to meet and nutritious food and drinks to enjoy, this benefit is not to be missed. The event will be held at the Metropolitan Pavilion from 12 to 3pm and will feature clowns, magicians, arts and crafts, as well as “spin art” t-shirts. And with Daylight Savings Time the evening before, don’t forget to change your clocks as we “spring forward” to a cure! For additional info and to register, please visit diabetesresearch.org/carnival2012.
CONTESTS & GIVEAWAYS
Win A Babymoon At The Plaza! For expectant and new parents with children up to two-years-old, the luxurious Plaza Hotel is granting one lucky couple a fabulous 2-night (Sunday-Thursday) babymoon! The award-winning hotel is a New York City landmark and offers the ultimate quick getaway for local parents. White glove butler service, exquisitely designed mosaic-tiled bathrooms and lavish dining await! For details and to enter, visit newyorkfamily.com and click on the Contests & Giveaways tab for details. Deadline is Friday, April 6. See GODSPELL For Free! If you’re a fan of musical theater, you don’t want to miss GODSPELL—the beloved musical from Stephen Schwartz. One of the most enduring stage shows, GODSPELL has come to Broadway in a brand new, one-of-a-kind production of friendship, loyalty and love. And we have 2 family four-packs to give away! For more details and to enter, visit newyorkfamily.com and click on the Contests & Giveaways tab for details. Deadline is Friday, March 23.
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www.newyorkfamily.com
2/21/12 9:26 AM
"Children are like pieces of music. We love to hear them play."
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Fa m i ly F u n g u i d e
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A Global Film Fest (For Kids)
Great events For march
Through March FOR MOM & DAD
For more event picks for families, check out our Family Calendar at
newyorkfamily. com/events
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Parents need to chuckle, too! Fresh off a successful world premiere last May, Rated P…For Parenthood makes its OffBroadway debut at the Westside Theatre. Every parent can relate to the heartfelt and hilarious musical vignettes that highlight everything from conception to college (and all the fun in between). Tickets are $89.50, performances run under 90 minutes. 407 West 43rd Street, ratedpthemusical.com.
March 2-25 A GLOBAL FILM FEST (FOR KIDS) [Ages 3-18]
Celebrating their 15th anniversary, the New York International Children’s Film Festival invites you to be a part of its Oscar-qualifying programming. With 100 films for kids and teens from all over the globe, every viewer is sure to find a genre they enjoy—from animation to live action. Plus, the fest boasts workshops and filmmaker Q&As for
added artsy fun. Check online for a complete list of showings, theaters and age recommendations. Tickets can be purchased in advance for solo screenings or for an all-access VIP pass. 212-349-0330, gkids.com.
March 3 OPERATION A-B-C [Ages 3-8]
Author Al MacCuish soars with his imaginative children’s book Operation Alphabet. A great way for children to learn their letters, come hear the story of Scottish student Charlie Foxtrot at the McNally Jackson bookstore. Young readers will get introduced to the Ministry of Letters, where every single word in the world begins their long and useful life. Al, along with a special guest, will be onsite to lead an alphabet art project as well. Free, 11:30am. 52 Prince Street, 212-2741160, mcnallyjackson.com. continued on page 18 www.newyorkfamily.com
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March 3-4 EAT YOUR VEGGIES Whether your kiddos are vegans, vegetarians, healthy eaters or simply love good-for-you food, the second annual New York Vegetarian Food Festival is sure to please all palates. Tons of food vendors, restaurants and wellness companies will set up shop in Chelsea’s Metropolitan Pavilion. And children will not run out of things to do! This year, join Vance at Vegcast on the Fun Stage to see an interactive veggiedriven cartoon show. Not to mention, all the yummy munching! 10am-5pm both days, tickets are $5. 125 West 18th Street, nycvegfoodfest.com.
You Lucky Duck
Mark L. seow
author, Yamaguchi’s books Dream Big, Little Pig and her latest installment, It’s a Big World, Little Pig rally the themes of persistence and self-belief. Yamaguchi will be signing books (and ice skates!) after the reading. Free, 6pm. Broadway and 112th Street, 212-678-1654, bankstreetbooks.com.
March 14-17 CELEBRATE CHERRY BLOSSOMS The Story That Never Ends
March 4 A COSTUMED CARNIVAL [Ages 1-5]
Come celebrate Purim with a fun-filled family carnival at the 92nd Street Y. Learn the story behind this Jewish holiday and meet the heroes of the Megillah, Queen Esther and Mordechai. Children will delight in games, mask-making and arts & crafts—hamentashen will also be served. Cute costumes are encouraged. Tickets are $10/adults, $15/children, children under 1 are free. 2-4pm. 1395 Lexington Avenue, 212-415-5500, 92Y.org.
March 6 AN OLYMPIC READING [Ages 4+]
Here’s a great way to kick-off the 2012 Olympic season—head out to Bank Street Bookstore for a reading with Olympic Hall-of-Fame inductee, Kristi Yamaguchi. Now a children’s book
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[All Ages]
Did you know that it is the 100th anniversary of the gift of cherry blossoms from Japan to New York City? To celebrate, head out to the American Museum of Natural History’s Japan Fest for a four-day fête of tradition and culture as part of the museum’s Global Weekends series. Prepare to be dazzled by a shadow puppet performance, flower-arranging and origami. And be sure to catch the woven cherry blossom installation by Loop of the Loom! Free with museum admission. Central Park West at 79th Street, 212-769-5315, amnh.org.
March 16-25 YOU LUCKY DUCK [Ages 4-8]
From the award-winning Broadway team of Henry Krieger (Dreamgirls), Bill Russell (Side Show) and Jeffrey Hatcher (Tuesdays with Morrie), comes The New Victory Theater’s newest production, Lucky Duck. This 75-minute musical journey will take children
J. robert schrader/coterie theatre
[Ages 2+]
on a clever (and choreographed) ride from the city to the forest. Get ready to hear the birds sing and the ducks harmonize in this family-friendly show. Tickets begin at $9. 209 West 42nd Street, 646-223-3010, newvictory.org.
March 22-25 THE STORY THAT NEVER ENDS [Ages 8+]
Fantasy fans, unite! The Neverending Story is coming to the stage at NYU’s Skirball Center for a limited four-day run. Follow the tale of Bastian, a boy who finds comfort in a book about a fictional land where dragons, talking turtles and sinking swamps thrive. Find out how Bastian enters the mythical world of Fantastica to fight and destroy The Nothing, a mysterious force that is trying to bring down this wondrous land. Production runs 80 minutes, tickets start at $20. 566 LaGuardia Place, 212-998-4941, skirballcenter.nyu.edu.
March 31 THE LUCK OF THE IRISH [Ages 5-12]
At the Irish Arts Festival, the Children’s Museum of the Arts brings Ireland to New York in a one-day Celtic cultural fiesta. Special features and hands-on activities include jig lessons, traditional storytelling, mythical animations and knitting workshops. Free with general admission. 1-5pm. 103 Charlton Street, 212-274-0986, cmany.org. www.newyorkfamily.com
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SOME FANTASY ACTION AND MILD RUDE HUMOR
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Kids Weeks give kids the chance to discover new skills, hidden talents and the thrill of performance—all taught by NEW VICTORY ® Teaching Artists at the NEW 42ND STREET ® Studios (where Broadway shows rehearse)! With a choice of three different themes, there’s a Kids Week that’s just right for your kid. Programs run Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm daily. CIRCUS WEEKS: $500 ($450/New Vic Members)
March 26 – 30 / April 9 – 13 / June 18 – 22 For ages 7-11
July 9 – 20 (2–week program) For ages 7-11
July 9 – 20 (2–week program) For ages 11-14
THEATER and PLAYWRITING WEEKS: $1000 ($900/New Vic Members)
Kids of all skill and experience levels welcome!
The N EW VICTORY ® Theater is a project of
Art: Tom Slaughter, Photos: Alexis Buatti-Ramos
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Fa m i ly F u n g u i d e
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t h e at e r
hOw tO SuCCeed with FaMilieS t. Charles erickson
Broadway Is Expected To Score Big With Adults And Kids Alike This Spring BY MeghaN geariNo Theatergoers, rejoice! Another Broadway season is midbloom and this spring, you can expect to see a few new shows fit for the family. Whether your child is athletic or a fairytale fanatic, here’s a taste of what’s about to hit the stage.
Godspell Currently Open Ages 4 and up
An exuberant production that’s been revamped for new audiences with pop culture references, like the Shake Weight and Steve Jobs. Watch as Jesus Christ (Weeds star Hunter Parrish) and his apostles learn lessons through a series of modern musical numbers ranging from rap to rock ‘n roll. the Circle in the Square theatre, 1633 Broadway, godspell.com.
Newsies previewS Begin: MarCh 15 Opening night: MarCh 29 Ages 6 and up
In this inspiring musical based on a true story, you’ll meet Jack Kelly (Joyful Noise’s Jeremy Jordan)—a newsboy striving for a better life. When two publishing titans raise the newspaper prices, it sends the newsies into an all-out revolt! Newsies features music by eight-time Academy Award-winner Alan Menken. nederlander theatre, 208 west 41st Street, newsiesthemusical.com.
Fan Faves Family favorites that are still rockin’ the spotlight. • how to Succeed in Business • the lion King • Mamma Mia
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• Mary poppins • the phantom of the Opera • Sister act • Spider-Man: turn Off the dark • war horse • wicked
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MaGic/Bird previewS Begin: MarCh 21 Opening night: april 11 Ages 8 and up
From the people who brought us Lombardi comes the story of how two intense rivals eventually become close friends. The play follows the lives of Hall of Famers Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Larry Bird—two seemingly different men who are both players in one of America’s most popular sports franchises. Incorporating classic footage throughout the 90-minute performance, audiences will come to understand how these two athletes formed a tight bond throughout the NBA draft, playoffs and the Olympics. The perfect lesson in good sportsmanship. longacre theatre, 220 west 48th Street, magicbirdbroadway.com.
peter aNd the starcatcher previewS Begin: MarCh 28 Opening night: april 15 Ages 10 and up
Where did Peter Pan come from and why does he refuse to grow up? Based on the popular prequel novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson written in 2004, Peter and the Starcatcher is a spin-off of the classic children’s story that will answer these questions and more. The New York Theater Workshop version debuted last year and received rave reviews. We expect big things for Broadway! Brooks atkinson theatre, 256 west 47th Street, peterandthestarcatcher.com.
where to Buy discount tickets Is a Broadway show outside of your family’s budget? Here are the best places to score cheap tix. BroadwayBox - Many of the popular musicals, like Mary Poppins, are featured here. Get a discount code for up to 50% off. broadwaybox.com givenik - We love anything with a
feel-good twist: 5% of every ticket purchase will be donated to the charity of your choice. givenik.com tKtS - Don’t let the daunting lines deter you. With three booth locations throughout the city (Times Square, South Street Seaport and Downtown Brooklyn), theatergoers can purchase tickets for both day-of and next-day performances depending on the booth. tdf.org www.newyorkfamily.com
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theatre allet diana byer
ARTS CENTER
artistic director
PERFORMING
Ne w Yo r k
presents
sleeping beauty
Family Series - 2011/12 Maximum Entertainment
The Magic School Bus, Live! The Climate Challenge Saturday, March 10 1:30PM • $25
Seatbelts everyone! The Magic School Bus® celebrates its 25th An Anniversary with an all-new musical adven adventure. Ms. Frizzle’s students are putting on a play about global warming, and they need some cold, hard facts. Ages 5 - 8
1 hour program perfect for kids!
Theatreworks USA
Nate the Great
March 10 & 11 For tickets & info, visit nytb.org This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council.
Photo: Richard Termine
Sunday, March 18 3PM • $25
Florence Gould Hall 55 East 59th Street
This young, pint-sized detective has found lost balloons, books, slippers, chickens, and even a goldfish! But when his neighbor Annie asks for help in locating her missing painting, Nate finds that unraveling mysteries is easier (and a lot more fun!) with a partner. Ages 5 - 9
Enjoy $14 tickets as a 10Club Member
Call 212-220-1460 for more information or Visit the Box Office located on the campus of the BMCC - 199 Chambers St., NYC. Order single tickets online: www.tribecapac.org • Follow us on Facebook & Twitter
A playful approach to classic jazz tunes—inviting families to sing, stomp, and swing together. J ALC .O RG /WE BO P C D
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Does Your Kid Speak Blubberish? Has your kid ever blown out the candles on another child’s birthday cake? There’s a word for that. What about when a child refuses to take a family photo? Yep, there’s a word for that, too. Local author Eric Ruhalter has penned a hilarious book to describe those indescribable things that all kids do. The Kid Dictionary releases this month and you won’t be able to put it down. It’s amazing how accurately Ruhalter—a father of three—captures the small moments that define childhood with hilarious new words. But you’ll have to pick up a copy to learn the lingo! A hilarious present for any parent, new or seasoned, to get them laughing (and in the know). For more information, visit sourcebooks.com.
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Game On At Gaga Check out the Gaga Center on the Upper East Side this spring—the first (and only) place in Manhattan dedicated to Gaga. Parents will be thrilled to find a place (other than their living rooms) where kids four and older can run, jump, dodge and throw. Founders and NYC moms Alissa Schmelkin and Marcy Singer wanted to get serious about this growing sport and have opened a 3,000-square-foot facility to host the dodgeballlike pastime. The center includes high ceilings, tons of sunshine, three pits and an amazing sound system. Interested in throwing a party at Gaga? They have a separate mezzanine just for celebrations. Classes start this month. For more information, visit gagacenter.com.
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STATIONARY
Boddington Knows Best Inside a whimsical Manhattan studio, Mr. Boddington’s hand-tailored paper goods—sporting playful patterns and fonts—will take your breath away. New parents will delight in selecting custom baby announcements in designs like “Pram in the Lane,” “Already for Caviar Baby,” and “What’s Up Buttercup?” Moms and dads can invent their own color combos or ask the studio for input. Correspondence has never been so chic! For more information, visit mrboddington.com.
Explore With Mohr Looking for a unique outdoor program in NYC? Rain or shine, you’ll find Mohr’s Explorers outside playing games, hiking, climbing, fishing, orienteering, building forts, identifying birds and learning basic wilderness survival. Mike Mohr offers an amazing after-school program in Central Park which takes kids on an exploration of the great outdoors for an afternoon full of fun. Mohr’s Explorers also offers summer camps, mini camps and camping trips— even an outdoor birthday party experience. Just be sure to check the weather first and come prepared with the right gear! For more information, visit mohrs-explorers.com.
APP
Giggle Goes Mobile Hooray for giggle! The popular multi-platform brand that sells baby products to city-dwelling parents has just launched its registry app. We love that it’s free and can be managed from virtually anywhere, but best of all, you can personalize your registry with notes on product picks: This would look cute in baby’s new nursery! Imagine how helpful it will be for the people buying you gifts— and how fun it’ll be for you to add items. The app lets you scan products via your iPhone, browse must-have and customer favorite lists and share your registry through Twitter and Facebook. Available from iTunes. For more information, visit giggle.com.
FOR A DAILY DOSE OF SCOOP, VISIT NEWYORKFAMILY.COM. www.newyorkfamily.com
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GReeNS BLueS Springtime Kids Fashion Has A Focus On Al Fresco Hues
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1. The Children’s Place Nautical Jacket $34.95, childrensplace.com This crisp, belted trench coat will keep young girls warm, dry and stylish all season long. We love the deep navy tone and roomy front pockets. 2. The Children’s Place Chino Short $17.95, childrensplace.com In 100% cotton twill, these mint green, traditional fit shorts have been specially treated for a cool, lived-in look. Front slash pockets help little hands stash outdoor treasures.
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3. The Children’s Place Plaid Woven Shirt $14.96, childrensplace.com A prepster-meets-woodsman look is a go-to for spring with this 100% cotton, yarn-dyed shirt. Prewashed for added softness, boys will love pairing this with a plain white or graphic tee. 4. Stella McCartney Kids Blue Cotton Jumpsuit $66, stellamccartneykids.com The Flo jumpsuit can transition with young style mavens from season to season. With a cinched waist and racer-back design, this one-piece is fashion-forward and super comfortable all at once. 5. Stella McCartney Kids Green Cotton Shorts $72, stellamccartneykids.com These aqua, ‘70s-inspired Hula shorts are great for the park on warm days. Two front button pockets add a touch of youthful flair.
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BY WhitNeY Casser Warmer weather is just around the corner! And springtime in Central Park means fresh air, blue skies and a green Great Lawn. So why not outfit your children in colors that imitate the great outdoors? Soft hues of greens and blues capture the beauty of the season in serene shades. So let nature lead the way to new wardrobe wonders for wee ones.
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6. Stella McCartney Kids Blue Cotton Jacket $131, stellamccartneykids.com The Otto boys hooded parka has enough zippers and snaps to keep Junior occupied on crowded subway rides. Best of all, this bright blue number is made out of cotton and is as durable as it is soft. 7. Andrew & Audrey Color Block Polo $42, andrew-audrey.com The classic polo gets a modern spin with this buttonless cotton shirt. It’s a more mature look for serious young boys. 8. Ralph Lauren RL Gang Swiss-Dot Romper $55, ralphlauren.com/rlgang This whimsical Swiss-dot cotton romper is ideal for outdoor play. The ruffle lace detailing provides a girly touch to this navy ensemble. continued on page 26 www.newyorkfamily.com
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1. Pearls & Popcorn Voilerouge Harem Jersey Pants $30, pearlsandpopcorn.com Little girls will find comfort in these loose drawstring pants, perfect for climbing on jungle gyms. And the three-button ankle detail leaves room for growth. 2. Sierra Julian Caddo Shorts $79, sierrajulian.com Belted shorts have never been so adorable. Sierra Julian’s navy pinstripes have tomboy panache but girly girl appeal, too. 3. Sierra Julian Cabana Dress $124, sierrajulian.com This full-skirted dress will have little ladies twirling for hours. And the shoulder bow adds a touch of whimsy in just the right way.
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4. Millions of Colors Shirred Front Dress $53, millionsofcolorsny.com The Millions of Colors all-girls label is for lasses 2- to 14-years-old—but the styles are sophisticated enough to make Mom jealous! This cinched-waist dress looks great with leggings. 5. Millions of Colors Asymmetrical Ruffle Skirt $53, millionsofcolorsny.com This multi-tiered ruffle skirt can be casually paired with a t-shirt or dressed up with a more formal blouse for a lovely spring birthday bash.
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6. Blume Small Pocks Baby Tee $48, blumebaby.com Pocket squares aren’t just for Dad anymore. Your little man can join in on the fun wearing Blume’s baby tees with sewn-in hankies. Our fav comes in ice blue with contrasting black. 7. Zutano O’Reilly Check Printed Hoodie $50, zutano.com This patterned hoodie combines cool blues and greens for springtime wear. The bold design is reversible to solid navy and is made of 100% Interlock cotton.
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8. 77kids by american eagle Sunny Skinny Jean $34.50, 77kids.com An ultra-light blue skinny jean is all your tween needs to put a spring in her step this season. 77kids has a super soft, stretchy version made of twilled cotton. continued on page 28
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www.newyorkfamily.com
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The Diller-Quaile School of Music
Early Childhood Music Classes (Infants - 6 Years) Music & Art Preschool Classes Instrument & Voice Lessons Orchestra, Chorus, Chamber Music & Suzuki Playing Classes High School Certificate Program Adult Programs & Teacher Training Concerts for All Ages The Diller-Quaile School of Music 24 East 95th Street New York, NY 10128 212-369-1484 www.diller-quaile.org Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Precollegiate Arts Schools
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1. Pediped Flex Jones Green $45, pediped.com The athletic and colorful shoe from Pediped’s Flex® line is multi-toned for active youngsters. With an all-natural rubber sole, this sporty sneaker stays in place thanks to a Velcro strap and Flex Fit System™.
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2. Think Outside Backpack $32, think-outside.com This water-resistant mini backpack is great for braving spring showers. Easy to adjust from a single strap carrier to double, this design encompasses two zippered, fully lined compartments to separate your little one’s gear. 3. Chaco Vitim $55, chacos.com A durable and quick-drying water shoe is all your mini explorer needs to navigate the city on stormy days. Along with an adjustable instep strap, the Vitim boasts a recycled non-marking rubber EcoTread outsole.
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4. Naturino #7703 $52-54.95, naturino.com Naturino’s canvas Celeste blue Mary Janes with a Velcro strap are flexible and comfortable for growing feet. Girls will especially love the pastel shade, perfect for playing hopscotch
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5. Cole Haan Mini Sail Strap $38, neimanmarcus.com Add some just-like-Dad footwear to your little guy’s wardrobe with these handsome shoes for spring. The contrast stitching and flexible rubber outsole make these loafers long-lasting.
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6. 77kids by american eagle Canvas Slider Belt $14.50, 77kids.com Add a pop of color to any boy’s blue jeans with this neon green woven cotton canvas belt. The adjustable black metal buckle will help it lengthen and last for years.
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7. Stephen Joseph Monkey Rain Boots $29.99, stephenjosephgifts.com These waterproof wellies have a removable insole, a non-slip sole (for splashing in puddles!) and a cotton-polyester lining to keep tiny toes warm and dry. Boys and girls alike will adore the bright monkey design on gray, rainy days. 8. Stephen Joseph Monkey Umbrella $14.99, stephenjosephgifts.com To coordinate your little one’s foul weather outfit, give your son or daughter this lightweight umbrella to match! It’s easy open-and-close system is ideal for tiny fingers.
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Spring is sprouting at Shoofly! New styles arriving daily! monday–saturday 10–7 sunday 12–6 42 hudson st (duane & thomas) nyc 10013 (212) 406–3270 any train to chambers st
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n e w y o r k fa m i ly p a r t n e r p r o f i l e
the artof
andrew Schwartz
learning At West End Day School’s Recent Student Art Exhibit, Creativity Wasn’t The Only Thing On Display—The Show Offered A Perfect Window Into An Educational Oasis Where Children Feel Safe, Happy And Brave By Jenna Helwig Excited students buzz around the auditorium at West End Day School’s recent art show, a major event on this special school’s annual calendar. Eager to show off their hard work, the children proudly dialogue with parents, grandparents and babysitters. And there’s a lot to admire—paintings, accompanying poems and digital works are all on display expressing this year’s chosen theme, “Wild About Animals.” According to Alyson Feldman, West End Day School’s speech-language pathologist, the art exhibit showcases all-things exceptional about this friendly school nestled on the Upper West Side: the day-to-day collaboration between the teachers and the specialists, the visible pride that the students take in their work, and the opportunity for parents to see their children stand out— often for the first time. While looking at the digital photography, one parent calls West End Day School “New York’s best kept secret.” Designed especially for bright, elementary school-age kids with mild to moderate learning, language and emotional issues, the school currently has 40 students. With small class sizes and two teachers in each class, every child is guaranteed a warm, personalized education designed specifically for their individual strengths and challenges. For many of the parents here, seeing their children paint, write poems and create digital projects in a safe, relaxed and happy atmosphere is nothing short of extraordinary. One parent recalls that at her son’s previous school he suffered from severe anxiety, was bullied and was also bored academically. “School became a daycare,” she remembers. “But since starting West End Day School, he is like a different person. I can’t say enough about the school. It saved him.” As the students enjoy milk and cookies and bounce from viewing their work to that of their friends, many seek out Robert Aitchison, a working artist and the school’s resident art specialist. It was Robert who guided the children as they created their pieces
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using acrylic paint on canvas. For most of the kids, this was their first exposure to these types of materials. But as Robert explains, he is always looking for ways to encourage the kids to challenge themselves and to test their comfort zone. “Art is a language. It’s another way for them to process their experience.” Lisa Spady, the school’s technology specialist, worked with the students on the digitally manipulated photos currently lining the tables at the edge of the room. The works all reflect each class’s study of a different group of animals. The oldest children, for example, created posters about endangered animals, while the youngest students superimposed their own smiling faces onto photographs of Arctic animals. “Sometimes mastering the software was challenging, but soon enough the kids would discover new ways to use it and would share their discoveries with their friends,” she explains. Lisa teaches regularly in the school’s computer lab, integrating the students’ social studies and science curriculum into her lessons. “I love helping kids use technology both as a learning tool and also as a means of expressing their creative outlet.” This kind of forward-thinking attitude is a constant at West End Day School. All of the professionals are dedicated to helping the students overcome their unique challenges while simultaneously helping them excel academically and exercise their creativity. As one parent says, “West End Day School is not just about fixing my son’s problems, but [also] about helping him shine.” Carrie Catapano, Head of School and a social worker herself, smiles as she points out one of her favorite photo projects at the exhibit—pictures of an endangered ocelot with the caption, “Little cutie needs help. Save the cutie.” She credits the show’s theme of animal appreciation and the extended studies within the classroom with generating great excitement among the children. “The art program enables our youngsters to show off, thrive and be proud of themselves. Kids feel safe here, so they feel freer to take risks while feeling confident and brave.” West end day school is located at 255 West 71st street. For more inFormation, visit Westenddayschool.org.
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parent in profile
all smiles!
Heidi Green photography
How A Former Nursery School Teacher Became One Of The City’s Go-To Family Photographers While Raising A Family On Her Own BY RoBiN SakS FRaNkel During her 10 years as a nursery school teacher at the Rabbi Arthur Schneier Park East Day School on the Upper East Side, Heidi Green was the kind of devoted educator who kids enjoyed seeing every day and parents counted as a blessing. In 2006, Green left Park East to pursue a career as a full-time family photographer, specializing in both portraiture and birthday parties—and has since become one of the most popular local photographers, in the family market. “Teaching, like photography came straight from my heart. It was never a ‘job’ but rather, like photography, more of a passion.” But the roots of her success go right back to the classroom, where photography was something fun to do with the students, capturing them in joyful and candid moments. When parents started clamoring to buy the pictures she was taking, a friend of Heidi’s joked that she might be in the wrong profession—and a dream was born.
the Green twins, rose and Harry.
“I have always loved kids and working with them came very naturally to me,” says Green. “If I hadn’t [gone] into photography, I’d probably still be teaching but with a side business or two, because toward the end my entrepreneurial juices were really flowing.” Behind the lens, Green started out photographing children’s birthday parties. And among parents planning very festive fêtes, she still has a reputation as one of the go-to photographers in the city. “I’ve photographed parties for new clients, where the relatives all assumed I was the host’s best friend,” says Green, a self-described people person. “By the end of the party, it’s sometimes the case!” 1. Know your subject. Choose a location where your child feels comfortable It didn’t take Green much time to establish herself and at ease. If your child loves to run, photograph her in the park. If he loves as a popular portraitist as well. For the last two years, to curl up at home and read his favorite book, use storytime as your setting. she’s been a finalist in the “Best Family Photographer” 2. Use natural light. A flash can frighten babies and young children, add harsh category in Nickelodeon’s local Parents’ Picks Awards. shadows and produce red eye. Try to use natural light, preferably sunlight, She’s also been featured on the TODAY Show in a segwhen possible. ment on holiday cards. 3. Focus on the eyes. A sharp, tight shot of your child’s eyes is like looking into “There’s something so rewarding about capturing their soul. Keep it simple. special moments for people, knowing they’ll treasure 4. Get down low with your child. The photos taken from their level and perthe photos forever. Since having my own kids, I’m even spective will be more unique and personal than those taken from up above. more in-tune with how important this is, as each develop5. Fill the whole frame. Don’t be afraid to get up close with your subject. But mental stage seems to fly by,” says Green, a single mom more active kids may be tough to capture, so keep your distance and use a zoom lens for the same effect. whose twins, Harry and Rose, recently turned three. Like most professional fields in the city, famFor more Great tips From Heidi, visit newyorKFamily.com. ily photography is competitive, and of course parents
Heidi Green’s top 5 tips on photographing children
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gravitate to photographers whose aesthetic appeals to them. The not-so-secret key to Green’s popularity is images that look friendly and naturally vibrant. “It’s all in the way you approach the children,” says the former nursery school Family photographer Heidi Green. teacher. “Kids are very smart and intuitive. They can sense when parents are tense about getting the holiday card shot. When you put them at ease, you get a natural smile.” Green also looks for unusual places to take pictures, shying away from the archetypical Central Park-posed shots. Her 2011 holiday photos of her own children, for example, were taken on a playground at an older school, where Green felt like the colors and chipped paint give the shots personality. “And they love it!” says Green of her children’s participation. “The only challenge is that whenever I’m taking photos or videos of them, they know to run up to me and look in back of my camera to see their pictures.” Much like her decision to pursue photography full-time, Green’s choice to become a single parent evolved over time. As she explains it, “There’s no expiration date on falling in love but NYFamilyadTLB.pdf 1 2/14/12 11:11 AM there is on fertility. The fear of not being a mom was much greater
to me than the fear of being a single mom. I didn’t ever want to look back and feel that I missed out on being a mom, as this is something I’ve wanted all my life.” For single women (or men) considering the path of solo parenthood, Green is a role model of someone with evident love for her kids and pride in how she makes it all work. At the same time, she’d be the first to caution that doing it on your own is not for everyone. Having a strong support system and being financially and emotionally secure is essential, she says. Her parents were encouraging from the start and live close by. Green also has a nanny and a photo assistant to help bridge the gaps. “My kids are at an age where they’re starting to realize that our family looks different from some others,” she says. “Instead of focusing on what we don’t have, I emphasize what we do have when we list the members of our extended family.” Looking back at the uncertainties in her life when she first took the plunge to become a full-time photographer, Green notes: “What has surprised me the most is that I don’t feel that anything’s missing. I’m so fulfilled with my kids and my growing business that I’m in a much better place than I was before. All of the pressure is gone to get married and have kids. I still think you can have everything, it just might not be in the order you thought. If I meet someone special now, it will just be icing on the cake. Any great single dads out there?’ For more about Heidi, visit Heidigreen.com
Robin Saks Frankel is a mother of two toddlers and a freelance writer, editor and social media addict.
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s ta r t i n g o u t
Come ToGeTher
Six Key Ways To Creating A Great Parenting Partnership
Whether it’s out of a desire for an equal and supportive relationship—or out of necessity—families are recognizing that life is a lot more manageable when both parents are competent, caring and willing to share the load. Parenting in partnership isn’t always easy, of course. It requires regular communication, flexibility and usually involves a few moments every now and then when you have to bite your tongue. But in our experience as the co-founders of the social and educational group NYC Dads Group—and particularly in our weekly New Dad Boot Camps—we’ve found that there are certainly best practices (for moms and dads) for producing better partnerships at home.
2. Parent As A Team When both parents are competent, they have a better opportunity to parent as a team rather than as master and apprentice. For example, nursing is a struggle and often a time when moms feels like they are in it alone. Dads can be very supportive of the nursing process. Bringing the baby over at feeding time, changing the baby’s diaper and getting the baby back to sleep are all ways in which dads can be intimately involved. More generally, the spirit of the idea is this: team players take initiative, they are generous to one another and they have a plan (so they’re not always debating who does what). If there is a sink full of dishes, a pile of laundry and a baby to put to bed, you’ve got to divide and conquer. Developing a plan to share the to-do list at the end of the day gets you a lot closer to the moment when both of you can sink in to the couch together with a glass of wine and the TV remote control.
1. Beware The Gatekeeper Tradition, popular culture and unwitting parents have conspired for decades to make moms feel and act as if they are the only ones who can properly take care of the baby—pushing everyone else away—a phenomenon often called “gatekeeping.” In the earliest weeks especially, parenting is about practice more than instinct, and both parents need opportunities to change diapers, to comfort the baby when she’s upset and to enjoy the quiet moments when she’s sleeping on your chest. This is the time for Dad to assert his role, express his willingness to learn and to demonstrate some competence. When both parents develop a skill set, Mom doesn’t feel like the weight of parenting is all on her shoulders, and Dad doesn’t feel left out.
3. Be Flexible When both parents have the flexibility to parent in their own way, it’s much easier to have each other’s backs when things get overwhelming. Relinquishing control means that things might not always be done your way. However, if both parents are capable, each can get things done in their own way and more can get done. In both of our families, we are the primary caregivers and we’ve both been known to give a skeptical look or comment when our wives don’t feed our kids the “right” snack or follow the “right” nap routine. We’ve recognized that doing this deprives ourselves of the opportunity to have a capable parenting partner, and it deprives our wives of having the loving, caring relationship that they want to have with their children. Bite your tongue, leave the room …and let your partner be a parent!
BY Matt SchNeider aNd LaNce SoMerFeLd
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4. Use Your Benefits Maternity workplace benefits have been in place for a long time and most new moms use them. Many companies are starting to offer new fathers benefits like paid paternity leave, flexible scheduling and telecommuting, but dads generally haven’t been taking advantage. We need a cultural shift in the workplace that allows mothers and fathers to be the parents they want to be while still being serious about their careers. As companies slowly institute family-friendly policies, we need more pioneering new fathers who can demonstrate that a two- or four-week leave has a huge impact at home and a minimal impact in the grand scheme of a 40year career. Dads, figure out what benefits you have and use them! If you don’t have any, start asking for them. Companies are much more likely to consider instituting family-friendly benefits when those of us with families step up and say we need them.
“Team players take initiative, they are generous to one another and they have a plan.” 5. Enjoy Your New Family Parenting isn’t all about dirty diapers, feeding schedules and naptime. Expecting parents should spend the weeks leading up to birth doing things you enjoy together—go to the movies, eat dinner out or see friends. After your baby is born, try to fit your
new baby into your routines rather than imprison yourselves in a cocoon of worry and to-do lists. It may take several weeks or even a few months, but try to take back some of those moments that are just about the two of you, rather than the baby. For example, use the time your baby is napping in the stroller to take a walk, grab a cup of coffee or get a bite to eat together. Better yet, set baby up in a rocker next to the kitchen table and sit down with a cup of coffee and the newspaper. Babies don’t require our attention constantly, and they’re often happy just sitting and watching you interact. 6. Remember Your Goals The transition from life as a couple to life with a baby may be the hardest road any of us will ever take (and we’re supposed to do it with a lot less sleep!). An awareness of these issues and an effort to engage in lots of communication will go a long way towards the three big goals: a happy child, happy partners and a happy partnership. Matt Schneider and Lance Somerfeld are the co- founders of the NYC Dads Group, a community of active fathers in the New York City area. Recently, they launched their New Dad Boot Camps, a three-hour workshop for expecting dads to learn from veteran dads. Find upcoming dates on nycdadsgroup.com.
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Join us for the whole summer [or] sign up by the week. March 2012 | New York Family
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New pareNt esseNtials
aLL aBouT BaBy A Quick Guide To New And Exciting Products For Infants
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BY CeleNe MCDerMott Whether you’re registering for a baby shower for the very first time or are on your second, third or fourth (go team!) pregnancy, it can be daunting to determine which products you need. To help guide your search, we’ve rounded up twelve new items that we think are fabulous for the expectant nursery.
1. Kids ii disney Winnie The Pooh Bouncer This bouncy chair cradles babies in its deep seat with comfy machine-washable fabrics and an adorable Pooh insert. Keep baby occupied with the toy bar that dangles Eeyore and Piglet, or help him fall asleep fast with the vibration settings. $49.99, babiesrus.com | 2. MunchKin nursery ProjecTor & sound sysTeM A two-step system for putting babies to bed! This miracle device plays soothing sounds like rain and classic lullabies while a rotating projector depicts images of the sky, rainforest and sea onto the nursery wall or ceiling. A voice-activated setting even triggers the sounds and images to respond to baby’s cries. $29.99, amazon.com | 3. ciTrus Lane deLuxe shoWer Box Pamper mom and her new arrival with a variety of goodies in one convenient box: Becoming Baby Jelly Balm, a Cloud B Sleep Sheep Rattle, a soft blanket by SwaddleDesigns Marquisette, a gift card to minted.com for birth announcements and more. $35, citruslane.com | 4. fridaBaBy nosefrida “The snoTsucKer” This BPA- and Phthalate-free nasal aspirator, devel-
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oped by Swedish doctors, has everybody talking about its brilliant design. Place the tube outside baby’s nostril and gently suck on the mouthpiece at the end of a connecting hose to draw out mucus. A moisture-absorbing polyurethane filter prevents the transfer of germs. $15, fridababy.com | 5. BéBé au LaiT LiLLe’s ThroW BLanKie Every baby loves a soft and silky blankie, and this fleece design with blue or pink satin trim offers an added function—it can be tucked into a spherical pouch! Decorated in vibrant color waves, the balled-up wonder can be tossed or rolled around for active play or simply to keep the blanket clean. $25, bebeaulait.com | 6. haTch Things coLd snaPTM Clip on this universal coat-extension baby cover when walking the city on a chilly, rainy day. Used with a baby sling or front carrier, this waterproof cover keeps body heat close and contains a soft, fleece lining for extra warmth. There’s also an insulation insert and removable, reversible hood. $129, bumpbrooklyn.com continued on page 38 www.newyorkfamily.com
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7. lazoo Boys rockn’ headphone printed romper This playful Japanese-American design company has paired stonewashed jeans with an adorable DJ-inspired printed shirt in a one-piece romper for your little guy. Available in sizes 6-9 months and 18 months, the outfit quickly snaps inside the thighs and on the left shoulder for easy dressing. $23.95, lazoo.com | 8. tiny love musical stack & Ball game This classic stacking toy is complete with electronic lights, musical feedback, rattling balls and easy-to-grasp rings. Babies can participate in a variety of activities to develop core cognitive skills. $29.99, tinylove.com | 9. BreathaBleBaBy mesh criB liner A safe, pediatricianrecommended alternative to the traditional crib bumper, this mesh liner incorporates Suffocation Prevention Technology that maintains air access when compressed and prevents babies’ arms and legs from getting caught in crib slats. Plus, BreathableBaby is hypoallergenic and available in a variety of colors and patterns.
$30, breathablebaby.com | 10. comFort & harmony momBotm deluxe pillow With a U-shaped fit that wraps around Mom, this pillow offers a unique Firm2Soft™ design. The firm side is ideal for nursing, while the soft surface is best for baby’s tummy time. There’s also an optional vibrating setting that calmly soothes little ones. Available in a variety of slipcover patterns. $49.99, babiesrus. com | 11. maclaren Beginning travel kit For BaBy Perfect for throwing into your diaper bag, this kit contains seven trial-sized, natural bath and body products that are based on holistic aromatherapy practices, with pure ingredients for sensitive skin. Sample Calming Bath Milk, Cocooning Massage Oil, Comforting Room Mist and more. $24, maclarenbaby.com | 12. manhattan toy rock with me! puppy Appropriate for ages 12 months and up, this adorable rocker is made from soft, plush material that is gentle for babies. It’s easy to use on any type of flooring, thanks to its wooden base. $130, manhattantoy.com
For more nursery must-haves, see our Born & Bred Blog at newyorkFamily.com
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activity of the month
FieldS OF
dreamS Young City Athletes Talk Spring Sports BY Gavriella Mahpour We’re at the tail end of a cold-ish winter that hasn’t yielded much in the way of outdoor snow play. It’s no wonder many city children (parents, too!) are looking forward to the fun and physical elements that spring sports programs have to offer. To kick off the season, we spoke with several young athletes who shared their thoughts and aspirations regarding their spring sport of choice.
LACROSSE Nigel Andrews, 14, Doc’s NYC Lacrosse What made you want to play lacrosse? When I was seven, my uncle brought me to a UVA lacrosse game. It was the semifinals of the national tournament and it was a great game; it went into overtime. Afterwards I started looking into the game and found that I actually liked it and I started playing for Doc’s. How often do you have to practice? I try to practice every day, because I have a little backyard and I have a rebounder wall so I hit the ball off the wall. I also have team practices twice a week. Who is your favorite professional lacrosse player? Probably Kyle Harrison who played lacrosse for Johns Hopkins. He was actually playing against UVA at the first lacrosse game that I saw, which I didn’t know at the time. Is lacrosse a good sport for kids to consider playing? A great resource is the City I think it’s helpful Parks Foundation’s free classes for kids in terms of in swimming, golf, tennis and schools. A lot of good other activities. Check out academic schools cityparksfoundation.org for also have great application deadlines. lacrosse teams, so if you’re good at lacrosse it can help you get into a good school.
Free Sports Clinics
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Nigel Andrews What has lacrosse taught you about life? It’s taught me that academics are much more important than sports. As I said before, a lot of great schools have great lacrosse teams, so if you’re not into academics and you don’t think it matters, then you probably aren’t going to go to a great lacrosse school.
SOFTBALL Julia Britt, 15, Yorkville Softball League for Girls What do you enjoy most about softball? The fact that everyone has to work together. We need to rely on each other, whether we play well or not. It’s nice to have people behind you no matter what the outcome is. What advice would you give other kids who are considering signing up for the sport? Don’t be afraid to try it. A lot of girls are in the same boat as you. Do you play any other sports? Softball and basketball at school, and soccer and volleyball at summer camp. I also enjoy snowboarding, when there’s snow! Who is your favorite athlete? Shaun White. He works really hard which allows him to push the limits of the sport. Why do you think that softball is good for kids living in the city? It’s a great opportunity to play outdoors while getting the chance to meet kids from all over. Do you plan on playing softball in the future? I would love to play in college and know I will continue to play every chance I get.
BASEBALL Alex Perel, 13, Manhattan Youth Baseball Why do you play baseball? I love the competitiveness. I also love the feeling of joy I get when I make a nice play or get a hit. After I make a great catch or turn a double play, I feel like I really accomplished something and helped the team. What position do you play? Anywhere Coach puts me, but I normally play middle infield, which is second base and shortstop. continued on page 42 www.newyorkfamily.com
2/17/12 5:45 PM
SportS | Swimming | ArtS & CrAftS | muSiC | fiELD tripS | SEnior CAmp ovErnight tripS | BuS SErviCE
FUNFiTneSSFRIENDSHIP June 28 – August 17, 2012 AGES 4–13 pee wee | junior | Senior CAMpS
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WHERE TO PLAY Baseball Asphalt Green, asphaltgreen.org The Baseball Center, thebaseballcenter.com Corbin’s Crusaders, corbinscrusaders.com Fastbreak Kids, fastbreakkids.com The JCC in Manhattan, jccmanhattan.org Kids in Sports, kisnyc.com Lil Sluggers, lilsluggersbaseball.com Manhattan Youth Baseball, manhattanyouthbaseball.com On Deck, ondeckny.com Simply Sports, simplysports.net SPORTIME Randall’s Island, sportimeny.com/manhattan YMCA, ymcanyc.org Yorkville Youth Athletic Association, yyaa.org
Alex Perel Do you play other sports? Yes, basketball, tennis and I run cross country. The agility and work needed to play these sports has helped me improve my speed and conditioning for baseball. How often do you practice? We have fielding practice on Saturdays and hitting practice on Sundays, so twice a week during the winter. During the spring and summer when we have games, we can play up to four times a week. Who is your favorite professional athlete? Albert Pujols, because he is the best baseball player in the Major Leagues and is an example of how success occurs when one works hard. Would you recommend baseball to other kids living in NYC? It serves as a relief from school and homework, and you do not need a lot to play, only a ball and two mitts, and you can have a catch and play almost anywhere.
SWIMMING Cole Collier, 12, Asphalt Green What do you like about your coaches and teammates? My coach, Jialin Hu, is a wonderful coach who emphasizes technique, hard work and respect. He is a former Chinese national champion swimmer and has taught me a lot. My teammates are very supportive and we are all very good friends. Most of them are from different schools around the city so I feel fortunate that I have an extended circle of friends. Do you play any other sports? I am currently training for my black belt in jujitsu. I also play tennis, sail and ski. Where do you hope that swimming will take you in the future? Currently I am ranked the #1 boy (12-year-old and under) in the Metropolitan area and my goals this spring are to become the #1 all-around swimmer in the Northeast and then go on to make the National level competitions and eventually the Olympic trials in the coming years. I also hope to swim competitively in college. Who is your favorite professional? My favorite professional athlete is Michael Phelps. I look forward to seeing him in the 2012 Olympics in London. continued on page 44
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Lacrosse Corbin’s Crusaders, corbinscrusaders.com Doc’s NYC Lacrosse, citylax.org Kids in Sports, kisnyc.com SPORTIME Randall’s Island, sportimeny.com/manhattan YMCA, ymcanyc.org Yorkville Youth Athletic Association, yyaa.org Soccer Corbin’s Crusaders, corbinscrusaders.com Fastbreak Kids, fastbreakkids.com Kids in Sports, kisnyc.com Kick & Play, kickandplay.com Manhattan Soccer Club, manhattansc.org Simply Sports, simplysports.net Soccer by Coach Fher, coachfher.com SocRoc, jcsocroc.com SPORTIME Randall’s Island, sportimeny.com/manhattan Super Soccer Stars & Super Soccer Stars Premier, supersoccerstars.com and starspremier.com Yorkville Youth Athletic Association, yyaa.org Softball Corbin’s Crusaders, corbinscrusaders.com SPORTIME Randall’s Island, sportimeny.com/manhattan Yorkville Softball, yslg.org Yorkville Youth Athletic Association, yyaa.org Swimming 14th Street Y, 14streety.org 92nd Street Y, 92y.org Asphalt Green, asphaltgreen.org Chelsea Piers, chelseapiers.com The JCC in Manhattan, jccmanhattan.org Physique Swim School, physiqueswimming.com Swim Jim, swimjim.com YMCA, ymcanyc.org Tennis 92nd Street Y, 92y.org Corbin’s Crusaders, corbinscrusaders.com Elftennis, elftennis.com The JCC in Manhattan, jccmanhattan.org NFCH Sports, kidstennisatnfchsports.com New York Junior Tennis League, nyjtl.org SPORTIME Randall’s Island, sportimeny.com/manhattan Sutton East Tennis, suttoneasttennis.com USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, usta.com YMCA, ymcanyc.org Yorkville Youth Athletic Association, yyaa.org www.newyorkfamily.com
2/17/12 5:45 PM
Photo: R. O’Connor
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Cole Collier
Maurice Russo TENNIS | Maurice Russo, 15, John McEnroe Tennis Academy
Julia Britt
What do you enjoy most about playing tennis? What I love most are all the small aspects that are crucial. Being an individual sport with no coaching, you can never sub-out of the game if you’re tired or not playing well, and you can’t call a time-out for coaching. What are your coaches and teammates like? All of my coaches and teammates are great people off court, but when we step on court, we all change. Our coaches get really tough on us, and good friends become rivals. We all like to be very competitive on court, because that’s how we learn to win. How often do you practice? I practice everyday, having the McEnroe Academy four times a week, fitness and lessons three times a week. Practicing every day is a big step to improving your game. Who is your favorite professional athlete? Having so much help and inspiration from him, John McEnroe has become my favorite athlete. Aside from him being a great coach at our academy, he is also a great guy to meet off the court.
SOCCER Kylie Stenzler, 9, Manhattan Soccer Club Why did you decide to start playing soccer? I was first introduced to soccer through my cousins who are older and who also play for Manhattan Soccer Club. How often do you practice? I practice four times a week. Do you play any other sports? I also play basketball and tennis and also enjoy ice skating. Who is your favorite professional athlete? Soccer player Abby Wambach. Why do you think that soccer is good for kids living in NYC? Living in NYC, it’s great to be able to spend time outside on the fields. Do you plan on playing soccer in the future? I love it and I can never imagine not playing soccer.
Kylie Stenzler
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growing up
|
A good ideA
PEaCEFuL PaRENTiNg As The Go-To Mom, Kimberley Clayton Blaine Has Popularized “Emotion Coaching,” Which Favors Empathy And RelationshipBuilding, To Address Classic Childhood Challenges Like Tantrums And Going To Sleep
Kimberley Clayton Blaine and her two sons.
BY elizABeth RAYMoNd After honing her skills as a trauma counselor for young children and having two sons of her own—ages 4 and 9—Kimberley Clayton Blaine quickly jettisoned into the world of professional parent coaching. As the executive producer of her popular Go-To Mom series, a web-based show that launched in 2006, LA-based Blaine is on a mission to help families with kids 0-7 years navigate the winding web of growing up. Here, Blaine discusses her latest book The Go-To Mom’s Parents’ Guide to Emotion Coaching Young Children (Jossey-Bass). In the reader-friendly volume, she provides practical suggestions for parents of young children. Blaine discusses everything from tantrums to pacifiers, and even makes the case for placing importance on the development of your parent-child relationship over the act of discipline. Find out how to turn your kid into a socially adept and responsible young person.
Describe what it means to emotion coach a child. [It] means assisting your young child to be more responsive and responsible as opposed to reactive. The easy steps to coaching are: acknowledging your child’s feelings, teaching him/her to recognize and express them, and [how to] stand up for themselves. The inspiration from your book came from working as a social worker, specializing in trauma. How does this intersect with emotion coaching? Developing communication skills in very young children allows them to maneuver [within] society without getting in trouble. Society expects us to sit still and be good, but not all children can do that. And they do it at different ages.
What’s the difference between a “hands-off” parent and a parent who emotionally coaches? The emotion coach is an observer, a Sherlock Holmes. The hands-off parent believes that the child is going to develop and get their skills by themselves. Looking to ignite your quest in becoming an emotion coach for your child? Consider these [But this] really does a child a disservice. local resources. A child needs to know that there are seedlingsgroup boundaries and social etiquette in life.
Local Resources For Emotion Coaching
This group of experts can instruct and guide you on exactly what to expect at every stage of your child’s development (and how to cope)—from ER trips to imaginary friends. seedlingsgroup.com The Bernard L. Pacella Parent Child Center This Upper East Side center offers classes on positive discipline for parents of children ages 3-6, one-on-one meetings with developmental specialists and a new program just for stay-at-home fathers. 247 East 82nd Street, 212-665-6309, theparentchildcenter.org
The New York Open Center Starting on Wednesday, March 7, this holistic non-profit will host a five-part daytime lecture series focused on positive parenting. Interested parents can sign up for the whole program or just for an individual lecture. 22 East 30th Street, 212-219-2527, opencenter.org
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Are there any red flags for parents that indicate that their parenting style isn’t working? If your child’s doing the same thing over and over again, then you need to take a different road with that behavior. Secondly, I would say if you’re always finding it’s a complete struggle [with] discipline, it might mean your issues are overriding your child’s. As a parent, we have to hold back some of our needs. If
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you find that you’re always heated during most of interactions with your kids—you need to revamp. In your opinion, what would you say is the number one mistake parents today make in raising a child? Thinking that the way you were raised is the right way. History tends to repeat itself.
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There is a ton of pressure on parents to be the first to wean their toddlers off the binky or thumb sucking, but you write about how these phases are actually fundamental to child development and should not be rushed. I think rushing things that aren’t detrimental to children just endangers your relationship with them. You have to pick your battles, and if it’s not a detriment to their development—[you] don’t have to battle it. Many parents struggle with the question of “How much TV is too much?” You touch on this in your book. Children two and under do not need TV and DVDs. It’s not a requirement for a healthy, developing child. But we’re not perfect and parents need a respite sometimes. I believe if you’re going to show your child (at any age) something, be sure it’s benign. [At our house], we love PBS KIDS, Disney and Nick Jr.—the stuff that’s got a really sweet message. You talk a lot about the need for parents to have complete control over their own emotions in order for them to effectively parent. What are a few suggested techniques for moms and dads who are feeling at the end of their rope? First, walk away for a few minutes so you don’t get overly heated. Second, call on resources to remind us that parenting is amazing. And third, it’s really important once you’ve made a mistake [that] you let your child know [that] you didn’t mean to do it. As our children grow older, does the emotion coach part of parenting move on too? Emotion coaching is for people of all ages. You’re always going to respect and deal with the emotional side of your relationship with your children. As they get older, we adjust. But you are always coaching.
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Strike A POSe From Parent And Child Classes To Glow-In-The-Dark “Gloga”—Karma Kids Yoga Unlocks A Unique Mix Of Flexibility, Focus And Fun For Children and Adults
Owner and Founder Shari Vilchez-Blatt
BY stephANie WolF
their child may not pay attention every second of the program. Kids don’t necessarily have the attention spans to stay engaged for a full class and will often become distracted. But Vilchez-Blatt insists, “They are taking in a lot more than you realize… They participate in their own way.” So while moms and dads shouldn’t expect a quiet, serene yogi experience at Karma Kids, Vilchez-Blatt maintains that they will still gain the benefits of yoga. “It’s kids yoga so we play,” she says. “We make it really fun.” Surprisingly, it wasn’t always “om” and “namaste” for Long Island native Vilchez-Blatt. Prior to opening Karma Kids, she spent 11 years in advertising, working for companies such as Hasbro, Binney & Smith™—a division of Crayola—Heineken and several smaller firms. When she got laid off unexpectedly, she decided to take a summer vacation from the breakneck pace of the advertising world and spent her time reading, resting and getting back into her yoga practice. As she continued her daily poses, Vilchez-Blatt noticed that her little nieces and nephews were imitating her. “I wasn’t sure if it was okay so I looked online and…it was.” She soon discovered there was a New York teacher training for kids yoga on the horizon. It was serendipitous. Without thinking twice, she enrolled in the course. Summer was drawing to an end and within a few months, Vilchez-Blatt found a space on 14th Street and opened the doors to
Stepping into the Magical studio of Karma Kids Yoga transports city kiddies into a whimsical yogi world of bright décor and floating butterflies. From special glow-in-the-dark mats to spongy green floors, straight down to the mini drinking cups—everything about this playful space is child-friendly. And as Manhattan’s only studio 100% devoted to kids, Karma Kids Yoga is an extraordinary place for little ones to experience fun and flexibility. Not to mention, focus. On a recent winter day, about two dozen little ones, from babes to tots, are fidgeting (and oh-so excited) while waiting for Story Time Yoga—a free half-hour class offered twice a week—to begin. Owner and Founder Shari Vilchez-Blatt kicks things off with a sing-a-long song. “Rub your hands, sit up tall, take a deep breath...OM!” The kids are engaged and animated as Vilchez-Blatt brings them along for a yoga adventure. Her passion for the practice and teaching it to children is evident in every pose and activity she leads. To ensure that everyone can enjoy the benefits of yoga, regardless of your economic As Vilchez-Blatt can attest, children situation, Karma Kids hosts a community yoga class four times a week. For only $10, gain a lot from practicing sun salutations children ages 2- to 5-years-old can drop-in and downward-face dog with Vilchezand downward-facing dog. But before Blatt and her staff of certified instructors. Parents should bring their children every class, she explains to parents that dressed in loose, comfortable clothing, which allows the young yogis to move freely.
Yoga On A Budget
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www.newyorkfamily.com
2/21/12 9:17 AM
Andrew Schwartz
Karma Kids Yoga in 2003. Nine years later, the studio is flourishing with a slew of popular classes, teacher training events and a growing clientele looking to capitalize upon the practice’s physical benefits, along with improved body awareness, confidence, selfdiscipline and relaxation. Karma Kids offers a variety of classes, ranging from a quick 30 minutes to an hour-and-a-half session. For the itty bitties (six weeks to walkers), there’s Baby Yoga where mom or dad plus baby move through basic yoga concepts. Once a child is a secure walker, he or she can advance into Parent and Child Yoga. This class turns yoga into playtime with puppets, songs and games. By the age of three, “kids only” classes are their chance to grow and learn without a grown-up by their side. The studio also offers adolescent, prenatal and adult restorative classes. Teen Yoga caters to the ups and downs of adolescence by incorporating components of meditation, nutrition, restoration and games. Most of these classes take place in Karma Kids’ newly acquired second space, the Peace-In studio, which has more of an “adult studio look,” according to Vilchez-Blatt. With the additional room, Karma Kids plans to expand its class offerings to include a post-natal core class and a beginner baby-free class. With a surge of interest in kids yoga, Vilchez-Blatt claims that her biggest business challenge these days is staffing her classes. She currently has 32 certified teachers and Karma Kids has been conducting their own youth yoga teacher trainings since 2005, but it’s still not enough to meet the growing demand. Taking the widespread interest in youth yoga into consideration, Vilchez-Blatt has aspirations to expand her company within
NYC and eventually throughout the country. Karma Kids is already extending its reach into pre-schools, daycares, elementary schools and high schools throughout Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn. It goes without saying, Vilchez-Blatt wants to share the benefits of yoga with as many families as possible. And with an abundance of classes to choose from and a staff of devoted yogis, it’s no surprise that Karma Kids Yoga is prospering so rapidly. The studio has evolved into a safe haven for New Yorkers to escape the everyday chaos of the city and get the whole family moving in partnered positions and salutations, creating a bonding experience that can “last a lifetime.” For more on Karma Kids Yoga and a peeK at some cool Yoga poses You can do at home, visit newYorKFamilY.com.
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Audra’s
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By Kat Harrison | Photography by Josh Lehrer Styled by beckiemartina, re-stylists 50
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yellow and red friendship bracelet is loosely twisted around Audra McDonald’s wrist, a daily reminder of her daughter Zoe, now 11. On the same hand, her engagement ring—an opal-set family heirloom from her fiancé, Priscilla Queen of the Desert’s Will Swenson—sits proud. This is Audra McDonald’s quiet. Now for her loud. McDonald, a four-time Tony winner and two-time Grammy recipient—perhaps most well-known for her earlier performances in Carousel, Master Class and four-season run as Dr. Naomi Bennett on ABC’s Private Practice—is a woman of dynamics. Just close your eyes as she takes the stage in The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess. With operatic grace, even when she stands completely still, McDonald’s voice cuts the air. It’s this steadily swinging balance, of crescendos and decrescendos, which brings Audra McDonald into focus—no matter if she’s singing or Tweeting about her daughter’s latest one-liner.
Do you have any advice for parents who want to nurture creativity in their children? If dance or music lessons are a little difficult to afford because it’s a terrible economy right now, see what’s available within your community: check out community centers, the YMCA, your church and school activities. But follow the child and encourage it. Let it grow. Someone that studies music already has a different look on the world. Diversity and tolerance comes along with pursuing the arts.
Is it true that your daughter Zoe was born on Valentine’s Day? Yes, best Valentine’s present ever!
“[The balance] is hard if you’re a theater performer because your child is gone at school during the day and then you perform at night. So we cherish all the time that we have together.”
Do you two have any special traditions? Usually the night before her birthday, she likes to hear the story of her birth—[it] was crazy, I went into pre-term labor [when I was] five and a half months pregnant with her. [Before], I was on bed rest for three and a half months. I had to cancel everything and lay on my back or left side. It was during the presidential election, the year with George Bush and Al Gore. You got to keep up with your politics, at least! And I watched a lot of TLC’s A Baby Story. I was starting to get so emotional that my husband at the time [orchestral bassist Peter Donovan] was like, “You can’t watch this anymore. It’s making you worse.” I [also] ordered her entire nursery online and had to meet her doctor on the phone. What’s it like raising Zoe in New York even though you had a Fresno, California childhood? We moved out of the city [to Westchester] when she was not even a year. So she has been growing up in the woods. She has a backyard but also has the added luxury of an apartment in the city. She has her piano lessons in the city, she’s seen every Broadway show that’s appropriate for a child to see—and maybe some that are not. I want her to be a theater kid. Her dad plays in orchestras everywhere. She’s been to Carnegie Hall, The New York Philharmonic—she’s getting all this incredible culture. She’s seeing the diversity of the city but she’s also fortunate enough that she’s getting the woods, catching frogs and hearing coyotes howl at night. The best of both worlds. So she loves the arts. Yes! She plays so many damn instruments—piano, violin, mandolin, saxophone and she’s working on the guitar now. That’s quite ambitious of her! Since her dad’s a musician, she just wants to do everything her daddy does. She just got cast in her school musical as one of the orphans in Annie. I don’t force any of it on her. It’s all Zoe-generated. There will never be a time in [her] life again when [she] will have the luxury and the time to explore because [then] real life comes into play. www.newyorkfamily.com
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Besides her artiness, what other qualities do you love in Zoe? She’s a really kind, sensitive soul. She’s very concerned about other people’s feelings and puts other people before herself—a bit too much. And then she’s got this fierce wit on top of it, which usually doesn’t go hand-in-hand, so the combo of the two is hysterical.
Tell me about it. We were at Disneyland and a couple of people were asking for my autograph. So she said to the person who was leading us around, “All I wanted to do was ride some rides and now my mom’s Mickey Mouse.” She’s got lots of great one-liners like that that come flying out of nowhere. Your Twitter feed is also full of hilarious one-liners from her. Every single quote is verbatim. This way I remember them all, too. What’s the most hilarious thing she said or did lately? She and my soon-to-be stepsons [Bridger and Sawyer] occupied the living room. It was time to go to bed and they decided that they didn’t want to. This was right when Occupy Wall Street was starting and they were studying the Constitution in school. So they established their own Civil Rights group and they wrote out a Declaration of Independence. They went into the living room, shut the doors and said they were occupying it. And I said, “This is not a Democracy. Who’s your President?” And they said Zoe. Then they marched into the den, where I was, and had a petition with six signatures on it—but I only had three kids in the house! Ha, what were the other signatures? They put Butler, who is our dog. It cracked me up! They went on and on until finally they passed out. The Occupation was over because they fell asleep. How do you balance such a hectic career with being a parent? I think that any working parent will tell you that any time spent away from your child is frustrating. We miss each other continued on page 54 March 2012 | New York Family
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“[A child] that studies music already has a different look on the world. Diversity and tolerance comes along with pursuing the arts.�
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a lot when we’re not together. It’s hard if you’re a theater performer because your child is gone at school during the day and then you perform at night. So we cherish all the time that we have together. You’re remarkable in Porgy and Bess. How do you do that day after day? It’s hard. If you thought about it, you couldn’t do it. You trained at Julliard. Did you always think that you would be doing what you’re doing now? Being on Broadway is the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do. Julliard felt like a little bit of a detour but it turned out that it was part of a higher plan—something I definitely needed. What drew you to the production, besides the timelessness of it? [Bess] is a role that I always dreamed about doing someday. I figured I would do it somewhere even if I sang it with myself. I just wanted to come back to Broadway. I was tired of commuting back and forth from LA [for Private Practice]—twice, sometimes three times a week. It was horrible but I had to; my daughter was here so I had no choice. Do you bring Zoe to the theater with you? Yes, she’ll hang out backstage—reading, playing on her iPod or with my make-up. So [that way], at least I’m getting to be with her and she’s feeling like we’re together. [Plus], she can hear me. She’ll even say things like, “Mommy, you sounded like you were a little scared in that one scene.” She sounds like quite the little critic! And with a trained ear to boot. She’s really good. We listen to the Broadway station on Sirius XM and I’ll say, “Who’s this singing?” And she’ll usually nail it. I love that she’s getting that type of education. Who do you admire most within and outside of the theater world? Zoe Caldwell, I named my child after her. Lena Horne, Judy Garland and Billie Holiday. Christine Quinn, I hope she’s our next mayor. I think she’s as smart as a whip, passionate and she’s living her life fully and truly. Speaking of passion…you’re engaged! Congrats. Is there a good story behind that? We were having dinner the night when Will proposed and he just seemed really distressed and preoccupied. The Denver Broncos just had a game and he thought they lost their playoff spot. So I was getting a little annoyed because I thought he was really upset about the Broncos and I was like, “Dude, you’ve gotta let this go. They haven’t been able to go to the show for a while now.” It turns out he was a little stressed out because he was going to ask me to marry him after dinner and I didn’t know. When we got back to the place where we were staying, there were roses all over the bed, chocolate-covered strawberries, champagne and it was a moonlit night. And he proposed. I cried and cried and cried like a baby.
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And the ring? It’s a very unusual engagement ring in that it’s opal. His mom was born in October and Will and his sister were born on the same day three years apart so opal is all of their birthstones. His mom passed away from cancer almost six years ago, at 62—nine months before my dad passed away in a plane crash. He was 62 as well, so we always kind of felt like our parents met…somewhere. She for some reason left this ring. Will didn’t even know me when she passed away—it was nine months before we met—and she left this ring to Will for some reason. He said it was always on her finger. I love it so much. Will has two boys of his own. How has it been joining the families? We’ve been hanging for a long time now. We kind of have a silly little name for the family—the Eggfartsons. It’s a name that his little boy Sawyer came up with. Three years ago, he was playing with Photobooth on the computer. We found all these videos and decided that would be the family crest and the motto was, “Always be an Eggfartson.” You played a mother on Private Practice while being a mother off-screen as well. Did that affect you at all? The whole arc with Maya getting pregnant and seeing how Naomi reacted to that—I got a lot of angry, angry mail. People were so furious that a mother would hit their child and then force them to have an abortion. For me, it was what Shonda Rhimes wrote. As far as Naomi saw it, her child’s life was now ruined and she wasn’t going to get to live a normal life. And in the heat of the moment, I totally understood that reaction. I was kind of glad that Shonda wrote that, because it was a real reaction. It was raw, but it was real. Some people just got really upset, but I understood it. In terms of audience reaction, it must be so different being on stage versus television. Do you feed off the energy of the live performance? The audience will let you know immediately how you are doing, by responding or not! How do you adapt? The only thing you can do is settle in, focus, listen to each other and make sure you are doing your job—which is telling the story. And if they don’t react, that’s not your concern. It can affect you, but at the same time, you have to stay focused. You can’t let it throw you. What lessons have you learned from motherhood—the good and the bad? Motherhood means never sleeping again. Because for some reason, even if you are not with your child, you are still thinking about them. It’s something you don’t know until you give birth. I also never knew how fiercely protective I could be. I would kill for my child. You don’t see that inside of you until you have [one]. And the level of love—it’s spiritual. Even on those days when you want to put them somewhere, find a mute button and say “STOP TALKING FOR 30 SECONDS!” Even on those days, the love is unbelievable. For a peek at more images from our cover shoot with Audra McDonald, visit newyorkfamily.com www.newyorkfamily.com
2/21/12 2:36 PM
How do I know which doctor is BEST for my child?
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For City Parents, the searCh For a new aPartment UsUally Goes hand-in-hand with sChoolinG yoUrselF aboUt loCal edUCation BY Eric MEssiNgEr We all know that parents—like most home seekers—don’t examine a property on its own when considering whether to buy or rent it. They care about outside factors like the neighborhood, the location relative to the office, and of course, the local school options. For responsible parents, the old saw “Location, Location, Location” goes hand-in-hand with “Education, Education, Education.” We all want our children to have a good education, for their growth and happiness as children and for their future. But the question of what’s a good education—or good enough—is deeply personal and very complex in a city where there are so many outstanding choices among public, private, charter and parochial schools (as well as mediocre choices). For that reason, when a city family with young children is in the market for a new apartment, it’s also a good time to do extensive research about local education—how to identify good schools, how to do admissions work on every level, from nursery through high school. In terms of education, what does living in a certain place guarantee you, if anything? We report stories about these issues all of the time, of course. (And you can find many of them on our website, newyorkfamily.com.) Think of this story less as a comprehensive overview for researching local education than as an informed starting point to education resources every parent should know while they’re researching where to live locally. For independent (i.e. private) nursery schools and ongoing
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schools, check out Victoria Goldman’s various tomes, with their straightforward info on schools and admissions policies. The Parents League (parentsleague.org) is another wonderful resource, as is the Independent School Admission Association of Greater New York, more simply known as ISAAGNY (isaagny.org). For public school, Clara Hemphill has three editions out— covering grade, middle and high school, respectively—and the website she founded, Inside Schools (insideschools.org), is the place to go for candid but reliable overviews of particular schools. But a local parent interested in public school should also become familiar with the Department of Education’s website (schools.nyc.gov)— especially its school search engine and data on particular ones of interest to you. At the very least you will be able to learn which local public grade school a particular building is zoned for. And then you will be able to check out some baseline data like reading and math scores by tabbing over to the area on “Performance & Accountability” and looking up ELA and Math scores by school from the last few years. By the way, the DOE website lists good charter info too, but interested parents should supplement it by visiting the Charter Center’s website (nycchartersschools.org). In selecting the following available properties, we aspired to our usual goal of trying to give readers a feel for the marketplace while hopefully turning them on to a few places they may like. This time however, the added thread is that every property is zoned for a good local public school (see sidebar matching properties and schools). But don’t take our word for it: do your own research. continued on page 58 www.newyorkfamily.com
2/21/12 9:24 AM
Congratulates
Lisa Lippman on a stellar 2011
• Most Cooperatives and Condominiums Sold • West Side Broker of the Year • West Side Listing Broker of the Year
Lisa Lippman, Senior Vice President and Director, has over 14 years of experience selling real estate. Lisa specializes in the sale of high end cooperatives, condominiums and townhomes throughout Manhattan. As is clear from her record, even in tougher times, Lisa excels at both selling and finding homes for her clients. A New York City resident for 25 years, Lisa offers impeccable knowledge of the market as it applies across all neighborhoods. She has lived downtown, on the Upper East Side, and now resides on the Upper West Side. Additionally, as the mother of three, she is actively involved in her childrens’ school and the surrounding New York community – she serves on two charter school boards and is active at UJA.
54 riverside, apartment 5C $2,975,000 • WEB# 1566019
160 west 86th street, 14th Floor $6,999,000 • WEB# 1532336
2628 Broadway, apartment 6C $1,999,000 • WEB# 1533596
245 west 99th street, apartment 16a $3,399,000 • WEB# 1565200
new york city
the hamptons
pa l m b e a c h
All information is from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, prior sale or withdrawal without notice. All rights to content, photographs and graphics reserved to Broker. Equal Housing Opportunity Broker.
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1. 424 West End Avenue, Apartment 16J West River House | Upper West Side In one of the few luxury rental residences on West End Avenue, this high-floor apartment has much to offer, including a gut renovation with condo-like finishes, a convertible 3 bedroom with 2.5 baths, approximately 1,400-square-feet with a gourmet chef’s windowed and eat-in kitchen boasting Costa Esmeralda granite counters and stainless steel appliances. There are customized closets and a large master bedroom with an ensuite master bath. The full-service building is pet-friendly, has a 24-hour attended garage, penthouse fitness center, a landscaped furnished roofdeck with magnificent views of the Hudson River and the city skyline, a bicycle storage room and exclusive Sky’s The Limit concierge service. Number of Bedrooms: Convertible 3 Asking Price (Rental): $8,595/month Contact: Manhattan Skyline’s rental office, 347-728-0367 2. 160 Riverside Drive, Apartment 1A Upper West Side This beautifully renovated, super bright 3-bedroom into 2 on Riverside Drive offers townhouse-style living within an excellent full-service prewar building. Currently configured with 2 bedrooms and a full-size den/library, this original 7-room floor plan can easily serve as a very spacious 3-bedroom. The apartment remains true to the old-world elegance, detail and scale of early century architecture, while enjoying a contemporary renovation with quality finishes throughout. The entertaining expanse is spectacular with a fabulous flow including an open side-byside living room and den, formal dining room and a beautifully renovated oversized gourmet eat-in kitchen. The FeATuRed PRoPeRTies & TheiR ZoNed PuBliC sChools
PRoPeRTY 160 Riverside Drive 2025 Broadwa 333 East 91st Street 330 East 70th Street 34 East 30th Street 10 Barclay Street 424 West End Avenue 59 John Street 20 Henry Street
sChool PS 166, 132 West 89th Street PS 199, 270 West 70th Street PS 151, 421 East 88th Street PS 183, 419 East 66th Street PS 116, 210 East 33d Street Spruce Street School, 12 Spruce St. PS 9, 100 West 84th Street Spruce Street School, 12 Spruce St. PS 8, 37 Hicks Street
School data was obtained using the school search engine at schools.nyc.gov.
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Number of Bedrooms: 3 Asking Price: $2,275,000 Maintenance/CC: $2,861 Agents: Deanna Kory, Corcoran, 212-937-7011; Ileana López-Balboa, Corcoran, 212-323-3214 3. 2025 Broadway, Apartment 2CD Nevada Towers | Upper West Side A wide open, lofty space that’s ideal for entertaining and still makes for easy living. This 3-bedroom also boasts a renovated kitchen and bath, plus a big open dining room right beside the spacious living room. With split bedrooms, new floors, smooth ceilings and a bright Western exposure, this home is almost too good to be true thanks to its super-prime location in a wellrun, full-service building that also includes a renovated rooftop sundeck. Number of Bedrooms: 3 Asking Price: $1,095,000 Maintenance/CC: $3,011 Agent: Brian Lewis, Halstead, 212-381-2252 4. 333 East 91st Street, Apartment 30AB AZURE | Upper East Side Two corner apartments have been combined to create this sprawling 4 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom condo-op with 10-foot ceilings and stunning floor-to-ceiling windows featuring amazing city and East River views. The spacious eat-in kitchen features pristine caesarstone countertops and appliances by Viking and Bosch. Each bedroom features an ensuite bathroom. The master bedroom boasts an oversized walk-in closet too. What’s more, AZURE’s 6,300 square feet of amenity space includes two rooftop terraces, a resident’s lounge, dining area, children’s playroom, game room and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The building is also pet-friendly. Number of Bedrooms: 4 Asking Price: $4,535,000 Maintenance/CC: $6,371 Agents: David Greczek and Ammanda Espinal, Prudential Douglas Elliman, 212-828-4848 5. 330 East 70th Street, Apartment 4D The Lawrence House | Upper East Side This beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is located in a full-service doorman building and features a marble entry and open floor plan. The kitchen has been fully updated and opens to a continued on page 60 www.newyorkfamily.com
2/21/12 9:24 AM
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646.505.5708 | 334 AMSTERDAM AVE AT 76TH ST a beneficiary of UJA-Federation
2/17/12 11:55 AM
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large dining and living area. The master bedroom has a renovated ensuite full bathroom and a large walk-in closet. The second bedroom has a quiet Southern exposure making it a perfect office or child’s room. The second full bath has been renovated with a shower-tub. The building is located on a charming tree-lined street, so you’re in the heart of the city but also apart from it. Number of Bedrooms: 2 Asking Price: $895,000 Maintenance/CC: $1,770 Contact: For sale by owner, 330e70th@gmail.com or 917-592-0701 6. 34 East 30th Street Murray Hill This full-floor loft with a private terrace is a dream space with a motivated seller. Approximately 2795-square-feet, the loft was fully renovated in 2008 and features an enormous living room, 4 beds and 2 full baths, and a pretty south-facing terrace with open city views. The co-op has condo rules, including unlimited subletting. There’s a full-time onsite super/attendant M-F, who accepts all deliveries. Pets allowed. Live/work allowed. Must be seen to be appreciated. Number of Bedrooms: 4 Asking Price: $2,695,000 Maintenance/CC: $3,253 Agent: Juliana Frei, Brown Harris Stevens, 212-396-5886 7. 10 Barclay Street Barclay Tower | Tribeca A classic and upscale Glenwood rental building and one of the most luxurious addresses in Tribeca, these stunning apartments feature public spaces furnished and decorated by acclaimed American designer John Saladino. The three-story Colonnade and main entrance showcases French-chiseled limestone columns and walls as well as hand-carved Italian gargoyles. The posh amenities carry on with spacious apartments, each with their own washer and dryer. The views are unsurpassed. There’s easy access to all the restaurants, shopping and recreational spaces that are making Downtown an increasingly popular area for families. And Barclay Tower has a great children’s playroom, too (see image). Number of Bedrooms: 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom rentals Asking Price (Rental): 1BR start at $3,795/month; 2BR start at $5,795; and 3BR start at $11,900 Contact: Glenwood Management’s Downtown rental office, 212-430-5900
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8. 59 John Street, Apartment 6C Five Nine John Lofts | Financial District/Tribeca Seller is offering 12 months paid common charges on this impeccable 1650-square-foot true 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath corner condominium residence with private storage. Five Nine John Lofts was designed by Andres Escobar and the residence has been beautifully embellished by artist Benjamin Lai. This spacious floor plan has an open chef’s kitchen, huge windows, custom closets and marble baths. The property has a spacious 24-hour attended lobby, media lounge with an adjoining garden, fitness center, roof terrace and live-in superintendent. This home is perfectly sandwiched between Fidi and Tribeca, and all the area has to offer. Number of Bedrooms: 3 Asking Price: $1,425,000 Maintenance/CC: $2,130 Agent: Marc J. Palermo, Warburg Realty Partnership, 212-380-2410 9. 20 Henry Street, Apartment 3A/S Brooklyn Heights This stunning loft home is located in the historic Middagh Building portion of the new Brooklyn Heights condominium, 20 Henry Street. Formerly home to the Peaks Mason Mints Factory, this loft conversion features one-ofa-kind historic elements such as oversized arched industrial windows and original exposed heavy timber structural beams and columns. These 19th century lofts are complemented with classically modern finishes throughout. Kitchens include premium Bosch appliances, caeserstone counters, custom Wenge cabinetry and Grohe fixtures. Spa-like master bathrooms feature custom teak vanities, Calcutta gold marble tiles, freestanding soaking tubs, polished Parthenon stone counters and Kohler fixtures. Number of Bedrooms: 3 Asking Price: $1,475,000 Maintenance/CC: $1,386 Agent: Michael Chapman, Stribling & Associates, 718-855-2823 PRiCes oN All PRoPeRties As of feBRuARy 15, 2012. foR MoRe tiPs oN ReAl estAte ANd desigN foR fAMilies, sigN uP foR ouR weekly NewsletteR At NewyoRkfAMily.CoM.
www.newyorkfamily.com
2/21/12 9:25 AM
LA ScuoLA D’ItALIA GuGLIELMo MARcoNI 12 East 96th Street, New York, NY 10128
Pre K-12th Grade
La Scuola d’Italia is a private unique Italian/English bilingual and bicultural school reflecting the best features of the Italian and American education. Knowledge of the Italian/English language is not a pre-requisite for admission to Pre-K through 9th grade. La Scuola d’Italia is chartered by the Board of Regents of the State of New York and by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Italy. The School is a member of the New York State Association of Independent Schools.
www.lascuoladitalia.org tel. 212-369-3290 email: secretary@lascuoladitalia.org
“is the best kept secret on the Upper East Side of Manhattan”
• Grades Nursery-Eighth • Co-educational • Small classes studentteacher ratio 10/1 • International student body • Exceptional teachers • Placement in the city’s best high schools
AdmiSSioNS opEN HouSES
RSVp to AttENd
Thursday, march 1 10:00am Wednesday, march 14 6:15pm Thursday, April 19 10:00am Thursday, April 26 6:15pm
Scholarships are available 319 East 74th Street, New York, NY 10021 212-249-2840 Fax 212-249-2847 info@cathedralschoolny.org
Advertorial
Kumon of Gramercy Park Awards $2,000 Tuition Scholarship to local student Kumon, the world’s largest after-school math and reading program, has given students across the northeast region the opportunity to invest in their education. As part of the “Kumon Fall Scholarship Sweepstakes,” the Kumon Math and Reading Center of Gramercy Park awarded a local student, Adam Fallis, with a $2,000 Kumon Tuition Scholarship. Kumon presented twelve scholarships, totaling $24,000.
“Our mission is to bring the Kumon Method of Learning to as many children as possible, and we felt that this sweepstakes gives more students the chance to commit themselves to furthering their education,” said John Marsh, general manager of the northeast region. “The Kumon Scholarship Sweepstakes was an opportunity for new students to experience the benefits of the Kumon Math and Reading Program and for existing students to continue enriching their academic career.” The contest received more than 16,000 entries during the month of October and was open to anyone over the age of 12 who visited a local Kumon Center and filled out an entry form.
Kumon of Gramercy Park class hours are: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m at 381 2nd Avenue, New York, NY, 10010. For more information, or to schedule a free placement test, please call (212) 683-1232 or gramercypark_ny@ikumon.com. Kumon’s individualized approach helps children progress by ability rather than age or grade. In the U.S., 220,000 students from preschool to high school are developing their math and reading skills independently and gaining confidence through Kumon’s Method of Learning. Kumon has 26,000 centers in 47 countries and more than four million students studying worldwide. Visit www.kumon.com or Facebook.com/Kumon to learn more.
© 2012 Kumon North America, Inc. All rights reserved.
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2/17/12 10:57 AM
The Green Guru
BY Paula Balzer Eco expert and author Alexandra Zissu’s West Village loft that she shares with her six-year-old daughter Aili and her partner Olli Chanoff lets off a cozy air amidst its über-green ambitions. The walls are painted soothing, muted shades, a mix of vintage and modern furniture is perfectly arranged for engaging adult conversation and piles of welcoming books are always within reach. But
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photos by andrew Schwartz
How Organic Living Expert And NYC Mom Alexandra Zissu Keeps Her Loft Clean, Cozy And Eco-Friendly rather than pointing out the collection of retro prints and eclectic furnishings that she’s gathered from her childhood home, Zissu is most excited about the perfect amaryllis that’s in full bloom on her dinner table. “Can you believe I planted that?” she says. “It was just a bulb with a tiny bit of green sticking out of the top.” The flower is vibrant poppy red, and, unquestionably, a cheerful touch on a cold winter day inside this green guru’s abode. www.newyorkfamily.com
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Back at the apartment, Zissu describes her living space as a Without a doubt, “wholesome urban home setting.” While the loft is a good example Zissu has forever been a of conscious design choices, like the sleek yet rustic dinner table, nature-minded ManhatZissu feels strongly that “it’s more about what’s green.” The layout tanite. “I had always of the family’s living space is a testament to her commitment to clean eaten super organically and responsible living. The first floor features a central lounging area because I was raised including an antique table paired with new hardwood chairs. The ofeating whole foods,” she fice furniture is hand-me-downs—solid wood and classic in design— says. “I joined a CSA while Aili sleeps on her mother’s childhood bed frame, topped with a [Community Supported new organic mattress, of course. Toys are neatly stacked in non-plasAgriculture group] in the tic bins and the rugs are made from natural fibers without backing. late 1990s and turned But Zissu is especially proud of her kitchen, and most notably, very organic, learning a her glass container collection. An entire cabinet filled with jars of little bit more about the all shapes and sizes is an attractive and safe alternative for storing way food was raised.” food. “Look…no plastic!” Zissu exclaims. Aili goes to school with But it wasn’t until Olli, Aili and Alexandra a stainless steel Japanese lunch box while her mom chooses to she started considering cook in enamel pans, never non-stick. “A good alternative is a cast pregnancy that Zissu really jumped on the eco-friendly bandwagiron pan. They cost about 25 dollars and last forever.” on. “I was talking to a friend who was also thinking about getting While committing to a green lifestyle may sound overwhelmpregnant,” she recalls. “I started researching everything from ing, especially to a busy parent, there are some simple steps you paint to nail polish to cleaning products, which can affect growing can immediately take to improve conditions in your home. children.” “Take off your shoes!” insists As Zissu dove deep into the Zissu. “It’s the public health world of eco-conscious parenting, alexandra’s great green advice: equivalent of washing your hands. she reacted like most moms-to-be. Books, Blogs, stores and more! We all walk around in NYC and “I started freaking out. It’s a house we know what we’re stepping on, of horrors. What am I sitting on? • The Complete Organic Pregnancy: What You Need to and then we see our kids crawling What kind of foam is in here? Is it Know—From the Nail Polish You Wear to the Bed You around on the floor [at home]. off-gassing? What am I breathing? Sleep In to the Water You Drink You wouldn’t let your kids crawl You get in the shower... there’s • The Conscious Kitchen: The New Way to Buy and Cook around the street. Right there bleach residue getting up in your Food—To Protect The Earth, Improve Your Health, and you minimize your exposure to feet. The nail polish you’ve loved Eat Deliciously pesticides, auto exhaust and even for years has hormone destructors! • Planet Home: Conscious Choices for Cleaning and dog poop.” To make shoe removal It’s going to do something unbeGreening the World You Care About Most easier for her own guests, Zissu lievably horrible!” she remembers • The Butcher’s Guide to Well-Raised Meat: How to Buy, has placed a charming bench with with humor. Cut, and Cook Great Beef, Lamb, Pork, Poultry, and More storage right next to her entryway. After methodically going • Zissu blogs at alexandrazissu.com and is Editorial Director for practicallygreen.com. When helping clients, she through each aspect of her home starts by finding the easy fixes. and work life in an effort to make and Her Favorite local resources include: “It might not be easy to throw out things more green, Zissu started • The city’s wonderful green markets (87 locations!) can your mattress [so] change what’s to become fluent in the organic be found at grownyc.org. already there… Look underneath and natural lifestyle. Her next • The Green Depot (greendepot.com) in the East Vilyour kitchen sink. What are you step, naturally, was writing The lage is the nation’s leading supplier of environmentally willing to give up? Take everyComplete Organic Pregnancy friendly building products, services and home solutions. thing out and switch it with green with Deirdre Dolan—the friend • The Children’s Environmental Health Center (childenproducts. Just doing this can result with which she shared that initial vironment.org) at Mount Sinai supports programs in in a drastic reduction in inner air conversation. research, education and patient care to protect kids pollution.” And that was just the beginagainst environmental health threats. • Kaight (kaightshop.com) on the Lower East Side sells With an apartment that’s as ning of her career. Six years and organic housewares and clothing for adults. pure as can be, Zissu now looks three more books later, Zissu fully forward to cultivating a green embodies the environmentally thumb. “I would like to grow responsible way of living, and things. To experience that full circle…watching something grow she writes about it regularly on her blog at alexandrazissu.com. from seed to corn.” Alexandra glances back at her amaryllis. One of her biggest must-dos? Shared meals at the family table “There’s something magical about growing things with a kid.” and purchasing food locally. “We spend Saturday afternoon at the farmer’s market at Abingdon Square. We can get apples, bread, fish, meat, eggs, everything. Then we usually head home for a For more tips on green living, read “Home, green farmer’s market lunch.” Home” at newyorkFamily.com.
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FURNISHING FOR FAMILY THE CITY’S BEST SHOPPING FOR NURSERIES AND KIDS ROOMS—PLUS FAVORITE FINDS BY ERIC MESSINGER Filling a child’s room with furniture and accessories is as much about smarts as it is about style. To help new families navigate the market and decide what’s right for them, we’ve asked some of the best local retailers for their tips and advice on buying beautiful, long-lasting and even eco-friendly furnishings. ALBEE BABY What are the store’s core offerings? [We run] the gamut of children’s products from car seats and strollers to cribs and nursery furniture, custom and designer bedding and décor, diaper bags, toys, bottles and feeding [items]. We have also expanded our layette and clothing offerings. Notice any interesting trends lately in nursery furnishings or accessories? [A] contemporary to modern look is still strong but we are seeing the trend turn to more of a traditional or transitional look. How long has Albee Baby been in business? 2013 will be our 80th year, owned and operated by our founder’s children and grandsons. Any advice for parents shopping for a nursery or big kids room? Know your space and lifestyle. Big kids rooms need your
BABIES “R” US What are the store’s core offerings? An unparalleled assortment of apparel, gear and furniture for little ones, and our best-in-class [online] registry. Plus, our “R” Market is very popular with parents who live or work in the area and need to make quick trips for food, formula, diapers, wipes— even paper towels. Notice any interesting trends lately in nursery furnishings or accessories? Convertible cribs, some of which even come with a conversion kit that allow for a transition to a full-size bed.
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child’s input—and should be flexible enough for growth in the child’s size and personality. 715 Amsterdam Avenue, 212-662-7337, albeebaby.com BEHR’S SUPERSTORE What are the store’s core offerings? Behr’s has the largest display of fine baby and kids furniture and accessories in the Tri-Sate area (over 30,000 square feet). Plus, all warehousing, deliveries and service is handled in-house. Notice any interesting trends lately in nursery or kids furnishings? Parents are much more knowledgeable and interested in matters of safety and health. How long has the store been in business? 106 years! We’re now the fifth generation. Any advice for parents shopping for a baby or kids room? Don’t even think about a used crib as it’s unlikely to meet the current safety standards. Please tip us off to a home product you just love. We’re big fans of the new Echelon line of furniture (above) by industry leader Muniré Furniture. This nursery furniture is made entirely in the U.S., using native hardwoods and veneers, and the
Any new developments on the big kids front? Actually, the store recently expanded its apparel, accessories, footwear and furniture offerings to cater to big kids as well. Please tell us about a home product you just love. The Twilight Turtle by Cloud B (above) is the first plush constellation nightlight, transforming any room into a starry night. 24-30 Union Square East, 212-798-9905, babiesrus.com
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designs are among the best you’ll find anywhere. 1220 Hicksville Road, Seaford, NY, 516-541-2347, behrsfurniture.com Brooklyn BaBy World What are the store’s core offerings, and what’s your most popular product category? We sell high-quality furniture and strollers. Our customers are mainly from the five boroughs as well as Long Island and New Jersey. We offer furniture delivery and assembly, as well as stroller assembly. Notice any interesting trends lately? Most parents are now purchasing convertible cribs. Any advice for parents? If you go with a convertible crib, purchase your conversion kit when you buy the crib. Please tell us about a home product you just love. Most babies chew on the wood of the crib when they are teething. Trend Lab makes a product called a crib wrap, a washable fabric that protects the wood and also protects the child. 7302 15th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 718-331-9498, brooklynbabyworld.com BuyBuy BaBy What are the store’s core offerings? We offer a full assortment of merchandise for children from birth to four years of age, including strollers, car seats, bouncers, bassinets, cribs, clothing, bottles, breast pumps, monitors and various personal care items. Any advice for parents shopping for a nursery or big kids room? Plan ahead. Think about what you’ll use beyond when the child is a baby. Find something that fits your space and your design aesthetic. Please tell us about a home product you just love. The Stokke® Sleepi™ Walnut Crib System (above) fits well within New York City spaces and grows with the baby. It offers a classic, elegant oval design void of hard edges, and goes from a bassinet to a crib in one simple step. 270 Seventh Avenue, 917-344-1555, buybuybaby.com kid’s supply What are the store’s core offerings? We make great furniture at a great price—no MDF (medium density fiberboard), no particle board—just sophisticated, green,
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giggle What are the store’s core offerings? Nursery and gear, which includes cribs, car seats, strollers, high chairs, bedding, layette and more—along with giggle’s own line of baby products, giggle Better Basics and giggle’s Best Baby Registry. Notice any interesting trends in nursery furnishings or accessories? 1. Lucite: Cribs with transparency. 2. iPhone-design inspired gadgets. 3. Bassinets meet cradles meet bouncers meet lounger —the new hybrid. 4. Techno-parenting epitomized by the Momaroo & now the Origami. 5. Navy, navy, navy. Please tell us about a home product you just love. Hands down the giggle Better Basics Harper Crib (above). It’s everything we think baby furniture should be, from the quality construction with solid birch wood to the clean, classic lines that fit every décor and every budget! Three Manhattan locations in Soho, Upper West Side, Upper East Side, 800-495-8577, giggle.com modern kid furniture. Our forte is the ability to customize and modify our furniture. Notice any interesting trends lately in kids furnishings or accessories? Silver, everything silver is selling. Any advice for parents shopping for a nursery? For a kids room? Don’t pay a lot for the crib. It goes away [after] age 2+. One should invest in a great dresser/changing table—that endures. Regarding a kids room, some people think a bed has to match their nursery furniture. I tell our clients: Go forward, don’t go back. Please tell us about a home product you just love. We love the fuzzy blankets and duvets, available in zillions of colors. The product name is Minky (right). 1343 Madison Avenue, 212-4261200, kidssupply.com nessalee BaBy What are the store’s core offerings? We feature luxury strollers, modern furniture, gear, layette and clothing. Plus, nessaleebaby.com is the only place you can search for baby gear used by celebrity parents. Notice any interesting trends lately? Acrylic is big in nurseries right now—so is grey. There are www.newyorkfamily.com
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Posh BaBy & teen What are the store’s core offerings? We sell only the safest-rated baby and teen furniture from Consumer Reports and the Baby Bargains book. We also provide a white glove delivery service which includes crib/bed assembly and room setup. Notice any trends lately? The ‘60s and ‘80s are coming back in color! The hottest new hue for bedding and accents? Bright orange! It’s a great gender-neutral color for the nursery. Also, children’s gear is all about
many great shades of grey and it complements so many colors to help make a fun but serene environment. Any advice for parents shopping for a nursery? Pick one thing to start with. It could be a color, the crib, a piece of artwork—having something to guide you will be a lot easier than throwing a bunch of things together and hoping they mesh. Please tell us about a home product you just love. I am loving Franklin & Ben. It’s a new furniture line and the pieces are beautiful. 346 Mounts Corner Drive, Freehold, NJ, 732-431-0008, nessaleebaby.com Planet Kids What are the store’s core offerings? Anything you need from zero to four-years-old. We carry toys, baby furniture, strollers, car seats, clothing, feeding, etc. Notice any interesting trends lately in baby furnishings? A contemporary look is in [as are] gliders. Any advice for parents shopping for a nursery? You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to get good quality furniture. Please tell us about a home product you just love. Young America furniture is changing the construction of their drawers. Starting mid-spring, they will now have gliding hardware. Two Manhattan locations on the Upper East Side (212-426-2040) and Upper West Side (212-362-3931), planetkidsny.com
Pottery Barn Kids What are the store’s core offerings? Pottery Barn Kids offers exclusive designs that create kid-friendly, stylish and innovative spaces for the nursery, bedroom and playroom. Product categories include baby and kids furniture, bedding, bathroom accessories, window
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four themes: vintage florals, outdoor adventure and spooky and fantastic surrealism. Any advice for parents shopping for a nursery or big kids room? New parents should make the crib their first nursery purchase, because it will affect how you approach your other purchases. Please tell us about a home product you just love. Young America’s The Bunkable Bed (left). 2935 Veterans Road West, Staten Island, NY, 718-227-7506, poshbabyusa.com
treatments, nursery essentials, lighting and gear. We also offer complimentary design services either in store or at the customer’s house. Please tell us about a home product you just love. One of our classic, iconic pieces that is great for a nursery, kids room or playroom is the Anywhere Chair. We offer a few different sizes perfect for babies, toddlers and kids. There are a variety of colors and patterns to choose from and they can be personalized which also makes them an ideal gift. 1311 Second Avenue, 212-879-4746, potterybarnkids.com resource Furniture What are the store’s core offerings and what is your most popular product category? We provide eco-friendly living solutions to any challenge, in any room, for any age—from toddler to grandparent. For families, for example, one of our most popular items is our bunk-bed system, which is only 12” deep when closed, and less than 40” deep when open. Notice any interesting trends lately? Parents are more frequently seeking eco-friendly solutions, whether that means reducing your carbon footprint in the materials you use, or by the sheer size of the physical whole space you live in. Any advice for parents shopping for a nursery or kids room? Over time you will save money and aggravation by purchasing quality, high-end pieces that will grow with your child. Please tell us about a home product you just love. Our Cleopatra Revolving Book Stands in powder-coated steel. Available with shelves or bins. [They have] a marble base so they are exceptionally stable. 969 Third Avenue, 4th floor, 212-753-2039, resourcefurniture.com For more great shoPPing tiPs For nurseries and Kids rooms, checK out our treats Blog at newyorKFamily.com www.newyorkfamily.com
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GREAT ESCAPES Five Family-Friendly Vacation Ideas For Spring
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BY MeghaN geariNo Spring Break is almost upon us, so it’s time to start planning that family getaway! When it comes to travel, there’s a little something for everyone—whether you crave tropical weather, historic sights or mountainous terrain—and we have the perfect family vacation ideas to get you started. FUN IN THE SUN Club Med – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic The Dominican Republic boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, so why not pack up your family and head down to Club Med for some seaside fun? Worrying about how the kids will keep busy is a non-existent problem at this all-inclusive resort. After a morning of swimming and splashing at the water park, children can check out the circus and trapeze school. Sports such as volleyball, basketball and water polo are also provided daily, while teens can enjoy dance and DJ lessons. All activities are age-specific and the resort even offers a Baby Club Med program. clubmed.us WINTRY WONDERLAND Keystone Ski Resort – Summit County, Colorado Keystone offers fantastic activities for fams well beyond skiing and tubing. Kidtopia Week takes place March 10-14 and 17-21 and includes festive fun like winter crafts, face painting and cookie decorating—not to mention a medieval dinner (cutely dubbed the “King’s Feast”) that finishes with fireworks. For thrill-seekers, be sure to check out Disco Tubing which sends you soaring down the mountain while listening to dance music. Finally, you won’t want to miss the snow fort, which includes a maze, slide and lookout tower. keystoneresort.com SET SAIL Disney Magic Cruise Pack your bags and visit our neighbors to the north with a New England and Canadian Disney Cruise. Leaving straight from New York City, this cruise will take you to the picturesque towns
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Woodloch Resort
of Halifax, Nova Scotia and Saint John, New Brunswick. Explore these quaint communities and see fishermen, historic sites and breathtaking views. While at sea, Disney provides endless entertainment for you and your clan. Meet all of your favorite characters, view the nightly fireworks, frolic in the pools and waterslides, and enjoy movies and shows nightly. disneycruise.com FOR HISTORY BUFFS Gettysburg Battlefield Bed & Breakfast Gettysburg, Pennsylvania Just because it’s a school break doesn’t mean the thinking cap comes off! Take the whole family to the Gettysburg Battlefield Bed & Breakfast to become a part of living history. This inn is close to many national parks for exploring and hiking, and also has an on-site petting zoo. Be sure to check out the famous house of President Eisenhower and schedule a battlefield tour for the full experience. Many attractions are close by, such as the Land of Little Horses Farm Park—a mecca of miniature horses and pig races. Horseback riding and carriage tours are also available. Friday night ghost stories kick off this historic and outdoorsy vacation where pets are welcome! gettysburgbattlefield.com OUTDOOR RETREAT Woodloch Resort – Poconos Mountains, Hawley, PA If spending your spring break at one with nature is what you’re looking for, search no further than Woodloch Resort in the Poconos. Jam-packed with family and children’s activities, boredom is not an option at this outdoor haven. Athletes will love the batting cages, climbing wall, pool games, waterskiing and zip lining. Collide with the kiddos in bumper cars, zip around in GoKarts, or just hang out for an afternoon in the game room. And be sure to compete in the classic family favorite competition, Double Dare! Mom and Dad shouldn’t miss the luxury spa, sports bar and nightclub for some fun of their own. woodloch.com FOR MORE FAMILY-FRIENDLY TRAvEL DESTINATIONS, CHECK OUT NEWYORKFAMILY.COM www.newyorkfamily.com
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Art On the SpOt There’s Nothing Like A WellStocked Arts & Crafts Cabinet To Inspire Creativity In Children BY StephaNie WolF Let’s face it. The newest generation of digital age children is less likely to be lured by arts and crafts than by TV and video games. Lately, adults have been turning to handmade endeavors— thanks to the DIY craze supported by sites like Etsy—as a relaxing escape from the everyday grind, but kids haven’t quite taken the cue. To break the cycle and engage them in wholesome quality craft time—not to mention, a bit of bonding with Mom and Dad—we’ve asked two experts for their advice on encouraging creative pursuits. Why Craft? For some city fams, crafting may seem frivolous amidst work, school and extracurricular activities. But avid art enthusiast and Owner of The Craft Studio on the Upper East Side Lindsey Peers strongly feels that crafting is worth clearing the family calendar. The benefits are obvious: children learn invaluable lessons from getting in touch with their creative side. “I think it’s extremely important, especially in a big city, because there’s so much stimulation… It’s something [kids] can focus on,” says Peers. Jo Pearson, a craft expert at Michaels Arts and Crafts, agrees and adds that reports have indicated that creative play such as crafting aids “in the development of fine motor, visual/spatial, cognitive and social/emotional skills.” How To Get Started Launching a crafty hobby can be intimidating for newbies, but you don’t need to be the next Van Gogh to reap the benefits. Pearson recommends starting small with a project that can be completed in a short amount of time. Additionally, crafting doesn’t need to cost a ton. Inexpensive materials or items you already have around the house such as wrapping paper, aluminum foil, cardboard boxes, uncooked pasta and buttons can often do the trick. You will be amazed at how creative children can be when given the right materials. Boys & Art Peers recommends getting reluctant boys on board by making t-shirts for their favorite sports team, decorations for game day or a “Go Team” decoupage or collage. Encourage them when they are young and they will grow up to have an understanding and appreciation for the arts. Sometimes, the mess is part of the fun, especially for boys. But for times when cleanup feels overwhelming, turn crafting into a family outing and hit up a local studio. “We have tiny spaces in Manhattan and you can leave the mess somewhere else,” Peers explains about the appeal of rolling up your sleeves at The Craft Studio, where there is no time restriction or sitting fee. Michaels meanwhile offers a variety of onsite arts and crafts classes and workshops year-round.
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The Craft Studio Ten MuST-HAve CrAfT MATeriAlS Here’s what the experts recommend you have on hand for spur of the moment craft-a-thons. 1. Construction Paper Every artist needs a canvas. This is a must for handmade cards, name plates, collages and more. 2. Age-Appropriate Scissors Shears will help shape your child’s project, but safety should always be taken into consideration. 3. Washable Markers or Crayons What’s your medium? Markers and crayons are inexpensive and easy tools for creativity. 4. Pom-Poms Kids love working with pom-poms. Kooky and colorful, they can spark all sorts of imaginative results. 5. Elmer’s Craft Glue Keep it together! A kid-friendly craft glue should be your foundation. 6. Pipe Cleaners The mess-free possibilities are endless. 7. Modeling Clay/Play-Doh If you don’t want to purchase modeling clay or Play-Doh, look for recipes online that use basic ingredients. 8. Popsicle Sticks Making a picture frame is a cinch with some popsicle sticks, craft glue and yarn. 9. Age-Appropriate Paint and Brushes Buy some inexpensive basics. 10. Yarn This simple material can be used to make jewelry, decorate frames or be incorporated into a collage. Craft Projects Between crafting books, specialty stores and the web, there are endless ways to find new project ideas. Michaels offers suggestions for all ages on their kid-oriented craft blog The Knack, with step-bystep instructions, a materials list and even a messiness rating. Peers’ go-to craft sites are Pinterest and CraftGossip. With these great resources, you can sit back and watch your family’s creativity blossom. for five fun SPrinGTiMe CrAfTS, See “ArT on THe SPoT” AT neWyorkfAMily.CoM. www.newyorkfamily.com
2/21/12 11:00 AM
WHAT ARE YOUR KIDS DOING THIS SUMMER? F
A
E RE
I M D
S
SIO
Renee Flax, director of camper placement of the ACA NY & NJ, will be on hand to answer parents’ questions and help guide them in their search for the right camp!
N
SATURDAY, MAR 10, 2012
SUNDAY, MAR 11, 2012
Downtown Grace Church School 86 4th Ave. 12PM - 3PM
Park Slope Union Temple 17 Eastern Pkwy 12PM - 3PM
SATURDAY, MAR 31, 2012
SUNDAY, APR 1, 2012
Upper East Side Upper West Side St. Jean Baptiste School Congregation Rodeph Sholom 173 E. 75th St. 7 W. 83rd St. 12PM - 3PM 12PM - 3PM New York Family magazine and the American Camp Association, NY & NJ are teaming up for their final fairs! Meet dozens of different camp directors from local DAY CAMPS and SLEEPAWAY CAMPS from across the region. Great for children ages 3 to 17!
pre-register at:
Newyorkfamilycamps.com For more info on summer camps:
TheRightCamp.com
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2/21/12 4:26 PM
h o m e a n d away
in the kitchen
sleep, prepare,
eaT
BY Jessica KoBriN BerNsteiN Kelsey Banfield is a foodie mom on a mission. Originally from New York but now settled in the Connecticut ‘burbs, Banfield was a dedicated home cook long before she became a parent—her daughter Daphne is now four. Frustrated by the meals she was making on the new baby’s timetable, and inspired by her dad’s stress-free meals growing up, Banfield reworked many of her favorite recipes so that the bulk of the preparation could take place during her daughter’s naptime—thus, The Naptime Chef was born. Debuting this month, The Naptime Chef: Fitting Great Food into Family Life (Running Press) seeks to help parents enjoy prepping meals for their families without reducing the kitchen experience to a daily chore. Her message is quite simple: if you enjoyed cooking before kids, you should be able to enjoy it after, too. “It’s not supposed to be daunting. You can cook during your downtime— find your own time and make it work for you,” Banfield explains. It’s this ability to restructure recipes into nap-length segments that makes Banfield’s new cookbook such a boon for parents. Flipping through, you’ll find that each recipe—from Apricot-Mustard Glazed Ham to Grammie’s Seven Layer Bars—comes with a
corinda cook
With The Release Of Her First Cookbook, Kelsey Banfield— Better Known As The Naptime Chef—Is Helping Hungry Parents Find Their Way Back To Enjoyable Home Cooking
“naptime stopwatch” which lets the likely harried home cook know how much prep and cooking time they need to set aside. Overall, Banfield’s food philosophy goes against many of the common trends in cooking for kids—the first being that parents need to adjust the types of foods they make in order to get dinner on the table in record time. Secondly, Banfield prefers to be inspired by fresh ingredients and favorite flavors, while foregoing freezer cooking—preparing huge batches or food once or twice a month that can be popped in the oven or microwave at dinnertime. Though she does recommend having some good meatballs or sauce in the freezer for an occasional off night. While so much of The Naptime Chef’s mantra is about cooking in one’s downtime, during a child’s snooze or while little ones are at school, Banfield also tries to involve her daughter in the kitchen when the opportunity presents itself. “Now that she needs to pack lunches for school, we’ve worked together to brainstorm sandwiches,” she says. The key, after all, is enjoying the process of cooking as well as the food. For more recipes From The NapTime cheF, check ouT her regular coNTribuTioNs To our YummY Delicious blog oN NewYorkFamilY.com.
sTrawberries & cream overNighT FreNch ToasT Naptime stopwatch: 20 minutes chef prep time, 50 minutes bake time makes 8 to 10 servings i assemble this at night after Daphne is asleep and let it chill in the fridge. with a healthy drizzle of warm maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream, a slice of this sweet berry custard is just the thing to get our day started. continued on page 77
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www.newyorkfamily.com
2/21/12 12:14 PM
Strawberries & Cream Overnight French Toast
www.newyorkfamily.com
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INGREDIENTS Unsalted butter, as needed 1 loaf day-old challah bread 2 cups heavy whipping cream 2 cups whole milk 8 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 5 teaspoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (or substitute frozen, about 1 1/2 cups) 1 cup maple syrup, warmed INSTRUCTIONS 1. Butter a 13 x 9-inch baking dish. 2. Cut the challah into 1-inch-thick slices and arrange them in the baking dish so that they are overlapping. 3. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream, milk, eggs, vanilla, sugar, cinna-
mon and salt until blended. 4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread. Using your fingers, press the bread down to immerse it in the egg mixture. 5. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight. 6. Preheat the oven to 350째F. 7. Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. 8. Tuck three-quarters of the sliced strawberries between the bread slices and scatter the remaining berries evenly on top. 9. Place the baking dish on a cookie sheet and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned, the bread has absorbed all of the liquid and the custard is puffed up. 10. Remove from the oven and cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving with a drizzle of maple syrup.
March 2012 | New York Family
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h o m e a n d away
camp c ountd own
“SecondS,
PleaSe!
”
Serving Health-Conscious Foodie Families And Children With Special Diets And Allergies, Camps Now Put A Lot More Effort Into Offering Cuisine That Is Both Nutritious And Tasty BY Jess Michaels Think you know what camp food is like these days? Think again. The fare has changed since your summers away. Now, camp directors consult with nutritionists, chefs and dieticians to plan out healthy and kid-friendly camp menus. Many day and resident camps also cater to special dietary requirements such as being Kosher, lactose intolerant or vegetarian, as well as having food allergies and celiac disease. Over the years, camp owners and directors have been educating themselves about children’s special dietary needs, allergies and food sensitivities and are happy to accommodate such requirements. Families shouldn’t assume that just because their child has food sensitivities or restrictions that they can’t go to day or sleepaway camp—yummy options abound. But it’s a two-way street when it comes to matters of the stomach and plate. “Whatever your child’s dietary needs may be, it is important for parents to be honest with the camp director at the camp they are interested in sending their child to,” says Adam Weinstein, Executive Director of the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. “Even if a camp doesn’t state their food policy on their website or in their brochure, parents should talk to the camp director and make sure they understand your child’s needs and that you also understand what the camp can handle and accommodate.” Camp owners understand that many kids are not only growing up in health-minded homes but also in foodie families. The result has been threefold: improved nutrition, a legion of choices and family-style eating. Family- or buffet-style serving has replaced the cafeteria trays of years past, though line serving still takes place in some cases. Generally, food is served on large trays passed around the table, allowing children a chance to enjoy each
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other’s company, and hopefully learn some table manners, too. In an era when families don’t always have the time to dine together, the family-style camp meal reinforces the value of spending quality time with those you care about. THE MENU For breakfast, many camps offer options like cereals, yogurt and fruit. During lunch and dinner, camps offer sandwich bars, pasta bars and salad bars with fresh vegetables, cottage cheese, grilled chicken, tuna and eggs. A lot of camps also have fresh fruit available for snacks throughout the day. “We have a registered dietician on staff who we work closely with to plan healthy meals made with natural foods that kids enjoy eating. Children like options, so we make sure that there are a number of different choices at each meal,” says Jeff Grabow, Director of Camp Echo, a coed resident camp in the Catskills. “Throughout the summer, we also have specialty and themed meals that give campers a variety of different foods including Italian Night, Chinese Food Night, Greek Night, Tex Mex Night and Jewish Appreciation Night. We make sure that campers are eating the foods that they want.” FOOD ALLERGIES And then there’s the rising concern of food allergies. With an increase in the prevalence of allergies among children, many traditional day and sleepaway camps are accommodating campers with a variety of food-related restrictions, including peanut and tree nut continued on page 80 www.newyorkfamily.com
2/17/12 6:10 PM
UNIS Summer Program
discovery camps June 25th through July 27th, 2012
The United Nations International School Summer Program was created to provide recreational and enrichment activities for children between the ages of 4 and 14, in a friendly and supportive environment that fosters friendship, develops sportsmanship and nurtures in spirit. The composition of both our student body and our professional and experienced faculty makes UNIS summer program unique. We welcome students from UNIS and from other schools, both in the USA and abroad. www.unis.org
EXPERIENCE MARINE SCIENCE
The
WHALE CAMP
at the
Fundy Marine Science Institute Face-to-face with whales, porpoises, puffins and lots of marine life
$40,000 College Scholarships Awarded HANDS- ON MARINE SCIENCE, OCEANOGRAPHY & WHALE RESEARCH ON GRAND MANAN ISLAND BETWEEN MAINE AND NOVA SCOTIA
Free Brochure & Info:
www.whalecamp.com
Ask About: STEM Projects • College Accredited Courses • Family Programs
junior campers age 2, 9 – noon
discovery campers ages 3 & 4, 9 am – 1 pm
babes on broadway
(formerly GDAT [Gymnastics, Dance, Art, Theater Camp])
ages 5 – 10, 9 am – 3 pm
251 West 100th Street at West End Avenue New York, NY 10025
discoveryprograms.com 212.749.8717
Mention Keycode WC NYF for $50/week Discount
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continued from page 78
allergies. Additionally, staff members are trained in how to handle children with allergies, how to read food labels and packages and how to administer EpiPens, while food service directors make sure that ordered food items do not contain peanut or tree nut ingredients. “Several years ago, Brant Lake Camp found that the welldocumented increase in the incidence of peanut and other food allergies was clearly reflected in our camper population,” said Dave Cramoy, a director at Brant Lake Camp. “Taking a proactive approach, we moved to make camp a safer environment for
CELIAC DISEASE Increasingly, there are both day and sleepaway camps that accommodate children with celiac disease, an intolerance to foods with gluten, the protein found in grains such as wheat, barley and rye. To comply, camp kitchens and staff will make changes to the types of food they order and serve in an effort to make the menu gluten-free. Camps are also diligent about ensuring that there is no unintentional cross-contamination with foods that contain gluten. Many camps, besides serving gluten-free meals for these campers, will allow parents to send their own gluten-free meals to camp for their children. Last summer, the New Jersey Y camps partnered with the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University Medical Center to create a Gluten-Free Kitchen and gluten-free program. Len Robinson, Director of the New Jersey Y resident camps in Milford, PA said, “We’ve had children with celiac disease, where parents would send gluten-free food to camp each summer and we would supplement it. But last summer was the first [time] we had this level of programming. A child with celiac disease can’t have one crumb of gluten without getting sick. We made a decision [that] we were going to do it the right way.” Along with the Gluten-Free Kitchen and program, NJY camps also wanted to change the camp culture. “Whenever we do inter-camp trips for sports, we make sure there is glutenfree ice cream. And all meals served at camp are matched up so children who eat gluten-free foods are eating exactly the same food as [the rest of the] children,” says Len Robinson. Debra Etelson Mayblum is a parent of three children with celiac disease and she sent her oldest child to NJY camp last summer for the first time. “I always wanted my children to go to sleepaway camp but as soon they leave the house, there are unanticipated snacks and field trips. It is very tricky. I had always heard good things about the NJY camps but when I found out they were committed to making a gluten-free kitchen, it was a no brainer for me to send my children there,” she says.
“Throughout the summer, we also have specialty and themed meals including Italian Night, Chinese Food Night, Greek Night, Tex Mex Night and Jewish Appreciation Night. We make sure that campers are eating the foods that they want.” affected children. We eliminated all nuts and nut-containing products camp-wide, encompassing dining room meals, candy/ canteen offerings, cookies and items sent to campers or brought into camp by staff, visitors and campers. No staff member or camper is allowed to bring nuts or nut ingredient products back into camp from trips or time off. The importance of hand washing before returning to camp is also underscored as an additional precaution.” To prepare families, letters and emails are sent before camp and prior to visiting day reminding parents that no nut products are allowed onto camp grounds and that any packages sent cannot contain nut products. Many resident camps will allow families to send prepackaged food for their child to make sure there is no unintentional cross contamination with other food products. Parents of day campers can pack nut-free lunches if the camp isn’t peanut- and tree nut-free and camps will make sure there is no cross contamination with the other campers’ food. Other food allergies are often dealt with on an individual case basis so parents should talk to the camp director about their child’s specific needs.
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VEGETARIAN/VEGAN Summer camps will also happily accommodate campers’ special dietary needs including vegetarian and/or vegan. The majority of summer camps offer a vegetarian option for each meal, as well as an elaborate salad bar at lunch and dinner which includes a variety of vegetables in addition to tofu, hummus, beans and pasta. There are also camps that will serve food for children that keep Kosher.
To help find The righT summer camp experience for your child, visiT TherighTcamp.com. www.newyorkfamily.com
2/17/12 6:11 PM
the
SAVE DATE Su2m01m2er! Open House March 24th, 10-2pm
17 Specialty Programs
SUMMER CAMPS at Purchase College
Weekly JOB 9-304 Sessions
6.925 X 4.7 NY FAMILY
ENROLL BY APRIL 2nd & SAVE! Door - Door Transportation for Manhattan Residents fscampswestchester.info 914.236.0977
Children’s Academy at LIU Brooklyn Saturday Sessions: March 24 – May 5, 2012 Summer Camp: July 9 – August 17, 2012
Creativity, Academics and Athletics for children ages 3-12 • Register by March 31st and receive $100 off Summer Camp
OPEN HOUSE SATURDAYS: March 24, April 21 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Pratt 120 & 121 LIU Brooklyn School of Continuing Studies 1 University Plaza • Brooklyn, NY 11201 • Corner of Flatbush & Dekalb Avenues For more information: 718-488-1364 • 718-488-1366 or childrensacademy@liu.edu • Visit liu.edu/childrensacademy
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2/17/12 11:12 AM
the last word
To BalleT or NoT To
BalleT?
A Stay-At-Home Mom Struggles With Whether To Enroll Her Daughter In A Popular Dance Class Or Hold Onto The Free Family Time They Love BY SharoN BeeSleY Last week, I got an email about arranging a ballet class for my six-year-old daughter Ella and her friends. A bunch of moms wanted to form a class at a posh dance studio for the girls on Monday nights. I ignored the email at first because I rarely sign up my kids for classes. Planned events and organized activities that start at a specific time are not my strength. As a mother of three, I’ve learned that I’m much happier when my kids have an open schedule. I treasure the flexibility. That’s not to say that my kids have empty schedules. It’s the exact opposite. We love being free to explore the city on a whim! On days off from school, we’ll run around the New York Botanical Garden or trek out to the Queens County Farm Museum. After school, we’ll take a stroll through Central Park. If we haven’t been to the Met in a while, we’ll take a cab over and roam the exhibits. If my kids are grouchy, we’ll hibernate, eat popcorn and watch movies together. As a stay-at-home mom, flexibility is the biggest perk of my job. As soon as my day gets too structured, the chance to be spontaneous is taken away.
Ella My sisters and I thrived. I never complained about my jam-packed schedule. I was having too much fun. And nothing made my mother happier than to cheer us on from the sidelines with her big toothy grin. I don’t know how she did it. On top of carting me and my sisters around, she also worked as a public school teacher. I’m sure some days felt like they would never end for her. But she kept at it. And the same goes for my dad. I don’t remember ever hearing them complain. When I was 18-years-old, my mother died from breast cancer, and left me with wonderful memories and a brilliant example of motherhood. I always wanted to be just like her. That is, until I became a mother. So here I was—rereading emails about the dance class. I checked and rechecked the schedule, tuition and the studio’s website. It really did look fabulous. Much nicer than any of the classes I took growing up in a small southwest Florida town. But as the email chain kept lengthening and the class list grew, I still hadn’t responded. I felt as if the only reason I would sign up Ella for this class would be out of obligation and guilt. But part of me felt like I wasn’t parenting correctly—like my parents had the magic formula and I was breaking it. Part of me felt like taking a ballet class is a modern milestone that every little girl should have. Every part of my husband wanted me to just sign her up so he could stop hearing me go around in circles and circles! Finally, after thinking it over, I made the decision to keep our Monday nights free and clear. But now, my daughter is in charge of planning our adventures. We can’t wait to see what the city teaches us.
“I always wanted to be just like [my mom]. That is, until I became a mother.” But emails about ballet kept flooding my inbox. More and more of Ella’s friends were saying “yes” to the class. When the number of girls reached ten, my guilt started kicking in. I began to wonder if Ella would feel left out. Finally, when I read about the girls participating in a recital and being fitted for costumes, my heart sank. I imagined how much fun she would have performing on stage. I started doubting my praise about the joys of a flexible schedule. Should I be signing my daughter up instead? I thought of my childhood, my mother and the hours she happily drove me (and my two sisters) to ballet, gymnastics, art instruction, community theater, piano lessons, soccer classes. . .the list is endless. I remember her telling me that when she was a kid, she longed to go to these kinds of classes, but her parents couldn’t afford them. As a mother, she was thrilled that she could provide this gift to us. And did she ever!
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Sharon Beesley is a wife and mother of twin four-year-old boys and six-year-old Ella. She writes daily at her blog NYC Taught Me (nyctaughtme.blogspot.com). www.newyorkfamily.com
2/21/12 9:21 AM
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2/16/12 2:48 PM