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April 2012
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APRIL
newyorkfamily.com
FEATURES
HOME & AWAY
22 | FILM
32 | STARTING OUT
46 | THE GILTED AGE
76 | ON THE MARKET
A Family Guide To The Tribeca Film Festival
How Gilt Groupe Entrepreneurs Alexandra Wilkis Wilson & Alexis Maybank Built An Online Shopping Empire—And Took On Manhattan Motherhood
Residential Buildings For EcoMinded Families
COLUMNS
Pregnant Women Have Lots Of Questions And They Often Turn To People Like Renee Sullivan For Guidance And Support
78 | TRAVEL
12 | EDITOR’S NOTE
For A Fun Weekend Getaway, New York Families Are Looking To Baltimore
Bump It Up
80 | QUALITY TIME
The New Amsterdam Bike Show (see story on page 30), a dream nursery giveaway, plus next month’s New York Baby Show
52 | MAMA STRUTS HER STUFF More Than 20 Moms Walked The Runway For NYC Fashion Week’s First Ever Show For Mothers
58 | REGISTRY RESCUE 10 Tips For Taking The Stress Out Of The Baby Checklist (Plus, Product Picks From The Pros)
64 | YOU’RE ONLY A DAY CAMP AWAY Our Guide To Finding The Right One For Your Child
Celebrate Earth Day With Green Eats, Crafts & Toys
FAMILY FUN GUIDE 16 | TEN GREAT EVENTS FOR APRIL 20 | THEATER The Dicapo Opera Theatre Makes An Intimidating Art Form Fun And Accessible For Kids
14 | CONTESTS & SPECIAL EVENTS
24 | SCOOP The First Annual National Princess Week, an app for little authors, local archery lessons and more
28 | TIP SHEET Transportation Alternatives’ Paul Steely White, Plus The Newest Bike Gear For Kids
36 | ACTIVITY OF THE MONTH From Childbirth Education To Postpartum Exercise, A RoundUp Of Prenatal And Postnatal Classes And Support Groups
42 | GROWING UP In Her New Book Bringing Up Bébé, Journalist And Mother Of Three Pamela Druckerman Argues That French Parents Do It Better
82 | THE LAST WORD One Mom Learns That The Best Way To Get Past Her Teenage Daughter’s Shut Bedroom Door Is To Remember Her Own
The Cover: Photography by Christopher Logan (christopherloganstudios.com). Styled by beckiemartina, re-stylists (beckiemartina.com). Alexis: Dress by More of Me Maternity, available at gilt.com. Necklace by Ranjana Khan. Alexandra: Dress, belt and bracelets, her own. Earrings by Citrine by the Stones. Ring by I’m Jewel. Hair and make-up by Ingeborg, using John Masters Organics.
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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
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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, Natalie Diaz, 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 CFO/COO Joanne Harras FOUNdiNg PUBLiSHEr Barbara Witt WEB PrOdUCTiON MANAgEr Jaime Negron jnegron @manhattanmedia.com WEB PrOdUCTiON COOrdiNATOr Kathryn Fortuno kfortuno @ manhattanmedia.com WEB dEVELOPEr Peter Hintz phintz@manhattanmedia.com
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editor’s note
BUMP IT UP There is an image of a baby bump— actually, two baby bumps—that I’ll never forget. Picture my wife and her good friend Patti, former college roommates, both around 40 and ready to give birth in two days. With nothing to do but rest, they took up positions at either end of our couch— two chatty, beautiful and big-bellied bookends—while I catered to their every need. The moment I took their picture, I knew it was a belly shot for the ages. Now, I have another one. I generally don’t like the way magazines photograph pregnant women—with the stress on them to look brazenly naked and heavenly maternal. For this month’s cover, we took a different approach. Alexis Maybank was over eight months pregnant when we had our cover shoot, and doesn’t she look as stylish and gracious as one might expect from the e-commerce buccaneer who co-founded Gilt Groupe? Don’t her and her old friend,
Gilt Co-Founder Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, look great? Two NYC moms, Alexis and Alexandra each have their own families, but as you might imagine, their lives are inextricably connected. My favorite part of our cover interview is when they explain how they’ve even come to complement each other as parents—Alexandra being the organized one who does the research; Alexis being the adventurous one who favors her instincts in letting kids be kids. But I suspect that many of you will enjoy their shop talk as well: designers, fashion, travel, a new book…just to name a few of their passions and endeavors. I especially love having a baby bump on this particular cover because it’s a perfect emblem for an issue filled with good stories for new and expectant parents, and for our biggest annual event—The New York Baby Show—coming up in mid-May. Want to know how to put together a wonderful registry with minimal
My Gilt trip with Alexis and Alexandra. stress? This issue’s got you covered, while also catering to our families with older kids with helpful stories on biking in the city and finding the right day camp, among others. Of course, I wish I had a second Editor’s Note to tell you all about The New York Baby Show, but suffice it to say, big bellies, infants and toddlers are welcome! And for more, visit newyorkbabyshow.com. Happy April Everyone, ERIC MESSINGER EDITOR emessinger@manhattanmedia.com
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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
NExT mONTh: ThE NEW YOrk BABY ShOW! The New York Baby Show for expecting and new parents with infants or toddlers will take place at Pier 92 in New York City on the weekend of May 19 and 20. The one-of-a-kind show is an extraordinary mix of goods, services, expert speakers and fun under one roof! For all the details and to purchase tickets, visit NewYorkBabyShow.com.
ThE SECONd ANNUAl mAmA GlOW FIlm FESTIVAl
Mama Glow—a maternity lifestyle brand created by prenatal wellness expert Latham Thomas—will hold its second annual film festival on Monday, April 16 featuring Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein’s documentary, More Business of Being Born. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with Rebecca Minkoff, Lyss Stern of Diva Moms, Denise Albert & Melissa Gerstein of The MOMS and Dee Poku of WIE Network. Cocktail hour starts at 6pm and the film will show immediately thereafter at Scandinavia House on Park Avenue. For additional info and to register, please visit mamaglowfilmfest.com.
ThE NEW AmSTErdAm BIkE ShOW
Wouldn’t you like to go for a ride? May is Bike Month in NYC and Manhattan Media’s bike-tastic event, The New Amsterdam Bicycle Show: Benefiting Transportation Alternatives, is back! The show takes place on the weekend of April 28 and 29 at the Skylight Soho and is sponsored by iconic Dutch brands klm royal dutch Airlines and Grolsch lager, as well as rAlEIGh USA. The show is a fun and energetic environment where families can learn safe cycling tips, check out one-ofa-kind bikes and accessories and get details on other bike events in the city. For details, see our story on page 30 and visit newambikeshow.com.
CONTESTS & GIVEAWAYS WIN ThE UlTImATE NUrSErY!
For expectant and new parents, here’s your chance to win a dream nursery courtesy of New York Family! One lucky reader will be gifted with everything you need to build a beautiful nursery for a newborn—complete with crib, mattress & bedding, furniture, glider & ottoman, layette, room décor, stroller, diaper bag, car seat & cover, toys, baby monitors, babysitting services and much more. The dream nursery is sponsored by aden + anais, Britax, The Children’s Place, Quinny & Maxi-Cosi, Citrus Lane, Lazoo, Naturino, Plum Organics, Nomie Baby, Pearhead, NessaLee Baby, pediped, Sensible Sitters, Little Pim and Skip Hop. For more details and to enter, visit newyorkfamily.com and click on the Contests & Giveaways tab for details. Deadline to register is Friday, June 1.
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FA M I LY F U N G U I D E
10
GREAT EVENTS FOR
APRIL
THROUGH APRIL CMA’S ANIMAL KINGDOM [Ages 5+]
For more event picks for families, check out our Family Calendar at
newyorkfamily. com/events
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Courtesy of The Jim Henson Legacy
The Muppet Man
Japanese artist Misaki Kawai brings her Love from Mt. Pom Pom exhibit for a threemonth stay at the Children’s Museum of the Arts. Captured by every medium—from sculpture to zines—the exhibit is a world where furry dogs and slimy snakes reign. Along with the show, CMA will also hold a bevy of art workshops and interactive programs throughout Kawai’s stay. Hosted by an artist who’s dedicated not to perfection but to trusting her gut, this is one creative display you should definitely catch! Free with museum admission. 103 Charlton Street, 212-274-0986, cmany.org.
THROUGH APRIL ANIMATION NATION [Ages 5-13]
Let’s face it—kids love cartoons. So why not take your ‘toon-lovers to the New York Hall of Science’s new exhibit, Animation? From start to finish, children will learn about animation from every perspective: drawing, filming,
movement and sound. They’ll even discover how it was done back in the day at the Penny Arcade via a station where kiddos can crank out their own animations using a Mutoscope. Plus, they can even view clips from Scooby Doo and The Powerpuff Girls to see exactly how these cult favorites were created. Free with museum admission. 47-01 111th Street, Queens, 718-699-0005, nysci.org.
APRIL 7 EVERYBODY BUNNY HOP [Ages 3+]
Egg hunts mark the official arrival of spring (and Easter). So escape the city and head to the Queens County Farm Museum for their annual Barnyard Easter Egg hunt in the orchard. Families can meet Whiskers the Bunny and have their photo taken—say cheese! Games like egg tosses and egg rolling will be recurring throughout the day so families will never bore. And don’t miss the farm animals and hayrides. Admission is $5, 12-4pm. 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park, NY, 718-347-3276, queensfarm.org. continued on page 18 www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:18 AM
Milstein Science Series
Bioluminescence: CREATURES OF LIGHT
SUNDAY, APRIL 22
11 am – 4 pm Milstein Hall of Ocean Life Free with Museum admission
N
inety percent of all ocean animals that live below 2,300 feet are bioluminescent. This family-friendly program explores what scientists know about these light-producing species and how they use light to communicate.
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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Fa m i ly F u n g u i d e
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1 0 G r e At e v e N t s
April 14 THE MUPPET MAN [Ages 5-10]
Join the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall for their delightful family concert, “Jim Henson’s Musical World.” Steven Reineke and Essential Voices join special guest John Tartaglia for two afternoon performances that spotlight both song and puppetry—a well-deserving tribute to the man who brought us The Muppet Show and Sesame Street. Tickets begin at $9, performances at 12:30 & 3:30pm. 881 Seventh Avenue, 212-247-7800, carnegiehall.org.
April 14-29 BEHOLD THE BUTTERFLY [Ages 7+]
Based on Patricia Polacco’s book of the same name, Making Books Sing’s newest production, The Butterfly, is a truly inspiring tale. Set in Europe during World War II, The Butterfly follows two girls whose friendship endures through unthinkable circumstances. Monique is Catholic and Sevrine is Jewish, but these friends do not let religious differences come between them. Tickets are $15/adults, $10/children (12 and under). Saturdays & Sundays, 2 & 4pm. The Mint Theater, 311 West 43rd Street, 3rd Floor, 212-573-8791, makingbookssing.org.
April 15 THE BASEBALLS AND THE BEES [Ages 4-10]
Celebrate National Poetry Month by bringing the kids to Poets House for a
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reading with the ever-clever Douglas Florian. He will be reading from both of his new books, Poem Runs and UnBEElievables. After you’ve finished laughing (trust us), stick around for a workshop with Florian. This is a great opportunity for aspiring poets to learn and grow. Free, 11am. Kray Hall, 10 River Terrace, 212-431-7920, poetshouse.org.
April 27-29 KID + INDIE = KINDIE [All Ages]
Brooklyn’s own Kindiefest, a threeday family music conference for both fans and artists alike, returns with some of our favorite names in the children’s sector. Performers include Dan Zanes, Gustafer Yellowgold, the Bari Koral Family Rock Band, KBC Kids and Caspar Babypants. In addition to rocking out, parents can hear panelists from radio stations, bands and record labels discuss the kindie entertainment business. Sunday features a family music festival for an additional fee. Tickets (excluding Sunday) are $95. Littlefield NYC, 622 Degraw Street, Park Slope, kindiefest.com.
April 28 RACE TO SAVE SIMBA [Ages 3-15]
Lions are among the planet’s most treasured creatures, and also happen to be some of the Bronx Zoo’s most popular furry friends. Do your part to save these beautiful animals (and their habitat!) by participating in the Wild Conservation Society’s 4th Annual Run for the Wild 5K and Family Fun Run. For serious athletes, a 5K will be held at 8am, while the Family Fun Run (strollers welcome) kicks off at 8:45am. Directly after, join the zoo for food, music, activities and complimentary admission—be sure to say hi to the lions! Registration fee: Adults/$35, Children (315)/$25. Aside from the registration fee, adults are challenged to raise another $30. 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, 718220-5103, bronxzoo.com.
Photo by Dmitry Gudkov
continued from page 16
Spring Awakening April 28 JUST KEEP SWIMMING [Ages 6-12]
Ready the swim trunks and goggles and head to Asphalt Green for their 17th Annual Big Swim Meet & Benefit. During the event—where everyone wins—not only will free age-appropriate races be held, but kids will get a chance to meet Olympic swimmers. At the benefit portion, families can meet and dine with triple Gold medalist Rowdy Gaines and Canadian Olympian Nikki Dryden. All proceeds go to Asphalt Green’s Waterproofing program, which teaches inner-city children how to swim. Meet is free, benefit tickets are $350/adults, $100/ children. 10:45am-2:30pm. 555 East 90th Street, 212-369-8890, asphaltgreen.org.
April 28-29 SPRING AWAKENING [All Ages]
Get ready to (cherry) blossom with a weekend of contemporary and traditional Japanese culture at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Sakura Matsuri Festival, which marks the end of Hanami. If music and grooving are what you love, check out Taiko drumming and Minbu folk dancing. Kids can even partake in an origami workshop, tea ceremony, or watch talented martial arts performers kick high to the sky. Fashionistas will not want to miss the Cosplay Fashion Show. $15/adults and $10/students (12+), children under 12 are free. 900 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, 718-623-7200, bbg.org. www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:18 AM
“5,000 years of of Chinese “5,000 years Chinese music and dance, music and dance, in one night.” in one night.” — The NewNew YorkYork Times — The Times
JANUARY SHOWS SOLD OUT
COMING BACK IN APRIL
“A “A marvelous evening… marvelous evening… I am completely I am completely enchanted.” enchanted.” — Her Royal Highness — Her Royal Highness Princess Michael of Kent Princess Michael of Kent
“Elegant and very “Elegant and very athletic, very skilled.” athletic, very skilled.” — John McColgan — John McColgan Riverdance Producer Riverdance Producer
extraordinary “An“An extraordinary experience…” experience…” — Cate Blanchett
— CateAward-winning Blanchett actress Academy Academy Award-winning actress
An extraordinary experience for the whole family!
“A mesmerizing “A mesmerizing performance...” performance...” — Donna Karan CreatorKaran of DKNY — Donna
Creator of DKNY
“Truly nourishes “Truly nourishes and lifts the spirit.” and lifts the — Stephen spirit.” L. Norris Co-founder TheNorris Carlyle Group — StephenofL.
Co-founder of The Carlyle Group
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DAVID H. KOCH THEATER Hotline: 800-818-2393 Presented by Hotline: Shen Yun800-818-2393 Promotions International
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Fa m i ly F u n g u i d e
Figaro For
|
t h e At e r
Families James Martindale
The Dicapo Opera Theatre Makes An Intimidating Art Form Fun And Accessible For Kids BY StephANie WolF Truth be told, the opera generally has a bad rep for being highbrow and impenetrable, especially to children. But, unbeknownst to many parents, plenty of operas sport characteristics that can appeal to a child’s imagination: fairytales, whimsical characters, elaborate sets and virtuoso music. The Dicapo Opera Theatre on the Upper East Side—an indie company boasting entire seasons of traditional productions—breaks the mold by making opera less intimidating for NYC families, while putting kids in the midst of the music and drama with their special weekend-only series, “Opera for Kids.” A self-proclaimed opera nerd, Dicapo’s General Director Michael Capasso started “Opera for Kids” with two goals in mind— to develop future opera-goers and Familiarize your to give his young chilDren With the Resident Artists the chance to perform linGo anD customs lead roles. At the helm oF an opera from the beginning, aria - A long solo, usually sung by one Capasso founded the of the leads. In the theater, the equivaDicapo with his high lent of an aria would be a monologue. school music teacher BraVa - If a female singer knocks your Diane Martindale in socks off, then shout brava. 1981 and gave the BraVi - When the entire ensemble blows you away, show your appreciation theatre a home on East 76th Street in 1991. with an exuberant bravi. BraVo - Exclaim bravo to acknowledge Having fallen in the excellent skills of a male singer. love with the opera DiVa - Literally means “goddess,” but at only seven years diva is also what you call a female opera old, Capasso knows star. first-hand the benefits encore - For when it’s so good, you of introducing it to need to hear it again. children. “Opera is an art form that enriches the soul…I fell in love with [it] at a very early age,” says the Long Island native who grew up in an Italian household full of rich tradition and culture. Surprisingly, Capasso didn’t develop his affinity for opera at home, but through
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la traviata the music program at his school. “I remember opera performances coming to our school and…field trips to the Metropolitan Opera.” He hopes to ignite that same creative spark in today’s youngsters. Now in its fifth season, “Opera for Kids” has taken off from its modest beginnings as a one-show run to five fully realized productions all performed in their original language, says Capasso. Lasting approximately one hour, the typical “Opera for Kids” event gives children ages 5 to 15 the chance to hear famous compositions, see costumed actors and even get a behind-the-scenes peek at a set change. Each morning begins with an introduction and narration by Capasso himself and concludes with a Q&A session where kids and parents can ask questions, meet the artists and grab photo ops. “It’s fascinating for them,” he says. “You know they’re enjoying it because they are quiet, pay attention, ask good questions and come back.” Sure, there are ways of introducing kids to opera at home— videos and recordings—but there is no substitution for seeing it live on stage. Capasso encourages parents to expose their kids to the performing arts regularly, if not through the Dicapo than at least through one of the many wonderful arts organizations throughout the city. In the meantime, he’s doing his part to cultivate the next generation of opera aficionados.
What’s on Deck The 411 on Dicapo’s last two “Opera for Kids” productions of the season. la traviata - april 21 & 22 Giuseppe Verdi’s masterpiece portrays the love story of Violetta and Alfredo. In the end, the pair sings one of opera’s most famous duets. Gianni schicchi - may 12 & 13 This one-act opera by Giacomo Puccini portrays the silly and bizarre mishaps of friends and foes out to inherit the fortune of a deceased millionaire. For more information, visit dicapo.com. www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:18 AM
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A FAmIlY GuIDE TO ThE TRIbECA FIlm FESTIvAl The Five Movies You Shouldn’t Miss
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Clockwise from top left: Fame High - Scott Kennedy, Knuckleball - Charles Miller, On The Mat - Joe Mulligan, Town of Runners - Jerry Rothwell
BY KAt HArrisoN Born in the tragic wake of 9/11, the Tribeca Film Festival (TFF) shows its true colors with consistently fresh programming. Now in its 11th year, the festival—which takes place April 18-29— received its highest number of submissions yet (almost 6,000!). And after combing through the finalists, we’ve hand-picked five choice films (and perhaps you’ll find a few other gems yourself)—showcasing especially strong in fields like sports and high school dramatics. So the question remains: why should you expose your tween to a primarily adult-focused film festival? Because going to the movies should not only be about escape, but also about growth. Here’s what we think you can learn from this year’s line-up. KNUCKLEBALL! – Documentary Two men, Red Sox veteran Tim Wakefield and the Mets’ own R.A. Dickey, made the unpredictable knuckleball their own. Find your seats for this inspiring sports story of two MLB players and their struggles and triumphs with the rare pitch. FOR FANS OF: Major League Baseball STRUCK BY LIGHTNING – Narrative Let the “Please, can we go?” beg-athon begin for this coming-of-age indie written by Glee’s ever-endearing Chris
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Colfer. From blackmail to high school cliques, the superstar smarts of Allison Janney, Christina Hendricks and Modern Family’s Sarah Hyland bring a series of flashbacks to comedic glory. FOR FANS OF: Glee; Mean Girls; Saved! ON THE MAT - Documentary You’ll recognize the familiar voice behind this high school success story— Parks and Recreation’s Chris Pratt, who also happens to be a wrestling alum of Washington’s Lake Stevens High. Follow this championship team through a season of injury and academia. (Contains some adult language.) FOR FANS OF: Win Win; Moneyball TOWN OF RUNNERS Documentary Bekoji is a small, rural town in Ethiopia where the young feel they have two options for a hopeful future: education or athletics. This touching film gives a three-year insight into two females as they run for the better. (In Amharic, Oromo with subtitles.) FOR FANS OF: The London 2012 Summer Olympics FAME HIGH - Documentary New York teens, meet your West Coast match: the Los Angeles County
High School for the Arts. Shown over the course of one year, this film documents how aspiring freshmen and senior students discover their performance passions while squabbling for the same roles. FOR FANS OF: The East Coast Fame; reality vocal/dance programs
TFF’S FuN FAmIlY EvENTS In addition to a bevy of films—the festival puts on two huge, free family events each year. We suggest you get there early! NYFEST SOCCER DAY Saturday, April 21 | 9am-6pm | Free Pier 40, 353 West Street Get your game face on! This soccer soiree features a celebrity showdown, a youth showcase, plus soccer clinics and skills competitions for all footballin’ levels. Pro coaches will be on hand to help out. STREET FAIR Saturday, April 28 | 10am-6pm | Free Greenwich Street (between Chambers and Hubert Streets) Last year’s fair attracted nearly 300,000 people! Don’t miss the infamous kite and bubble gardens, performances from some of your favorite Broadway shows and plenty of arts & crafts. www.newyorkfamily.com
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For BUddinG aUtHors In this day and age, it seems our gadgets can do it all. And with the release of the Scribble Press for iPad app, you and your child (ages 5 and up) can create a book in the palm of your hand. Using original artwork or uploaded photos, watch as visuals and text transform into an original story. Your child will delight in seeing his name as an author! And if you don’t have a story in mind, Scribble Pad offers over 50 idea templates for you to use. The finished product is instantly published on the Scribble Press eBook gallery for you to share, cherish and enjoy. The best part? It’s free! Scribble Press has locations on the Upper East and West Sides. For more information, visit scribblepressapp.com.
store
cHirp! cHirp! Stacey Fraser, top children’s clothing designer and owner of Pink Chicken, recently opened her first NYC store on the Upper East Side—to complement her location out East in Amagansett. Fraser, a mother herself, designs clothing for both little ladies (newborn through tween) and mommies, and is excited for her new boutique showcasing a bohemian look. Designs include bright colors, fun prints, jewel-encrusted hair accessories and summery silhouettes. Fraser brings her knowledge and experience directly to her work—designing not only for aesthetics but for functionality, as well. Celeb moms Nicole Richie and Jennifer Garner love Pink Chicken and now Manhattan mamas can have a piece of the bird, too. For more information, visit pinkchicken.com.
weBsite
sHop By celeBrity Do you ever see your favorite celeb photographed with great baby gear (OMG, Gwen Stefani and that amazing stroller) and wonder where she got it? Here’s how to get your fix: Along with all the wonderful baby items and familiar brands they sell in their New Jersey store and online, NessaLee Baby has a “Shop By Celebrity” tab that allows you to see what’s hot in Hollywood right now. This one-stop online destination provides you with pictures, pricing info and the option to buy. Expecting parents can also sign up for their gift registry. And be sure to check out their blog for up-to-date news and celebrity status on all-things baby! For more information, visit nessaleebaby.com.
celeBration
a week Fit For a princess April 22nd marks the start of National Princess Week, a first-ever celebration of all things pink, royal and tiara-topped. Created by Julie Andrews, she will also be collaborating with Target and Disney to mark the 10-year anniversary of The Princess Diaries. For National Princess Week only, Target.com will be selling special merchandise featuring Disney royalty like Snow White, Ariel and Cinderella. Plus, you and your little princess can celebrate this week at Let’s Dress Up!, a local princess go-to spot. A Princess Party includes a sit-down tea with food and pink lemonade, cake and party favors. And coinciding with National Princess Week is the release of Moey’s new CD, Princess Revolution. In this girl-power themed release, the NYC-based musician shows us that a princess can slay her own dragons and rescue the prince! For more information, visit target.com, letsdressupct.com and moeysmusicparty.com.
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activity
try For BUll’s eye Thanks to The Hunger Games, archery may start to gain a younger following. As a sport that requires patience, strength and focus, we also think it’s a great activity to teach to your child. But, where to go? Queens Archery, NYC’s largest archery range, offers lessons for both beginners and junior Olympians in their youth program. They make safety a priority and lessons are conducted by experienced coaches. Got a pro on your hands? Enroll her in one of the weekly tournaments, held on Sundays and Tuesdays. A free lesson is given with your first bow and arrow rental! Recommended for ages 8 and up. For more information, visit bigapplearchery.com.
For a daily dose oF scoop, visit newyorkFamily.com. www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:12 AM
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TIP SHEET
CYCLE
CITY
Anna, Zoe and Paul Steely White
Andrew Schwartz
AND THE
NYC Father And Front Man For Transportation Alternatives Paul Steely White Is All About The Bike BY ELIZABETH RAYMOND Paul Steely White is changing the landscape of New York City’s streets through his work as Executive Director of the nonprofit Transportation Alternatives. If he gets his way, the number of children playing in the parks, people pedaling to work and pedestrians using the city sidewalks will vastly outnumber the cars on our streets. Find out how this biking advocate—and father to Anna, three—aims to change the way we safely get around. How did you become such a bike enthusiast? When I was a youngster, my dad used to ride his gold Fuji 10-speed eleven miles to work each day. But as a really little kid, I didn’t think much of it. As I started to ride, I remember thinking how far it was: down the driveway, down the street, past the grocery store, past school, and suddenly I realized he was a superhero. How many bikes do you own and which is your favorite? I have two favorites: My featherlight Gary Fisher carbon road bike that I use for long rides and racing, and a Christiania Trike from Copenhagen that I use to ferry the most precious cargo—my daughter, Anna, and all the groceries she eats. Do you think Anna will share your enthusiasm for bicycling? Anna loves to run, scoot, climb, frolic, and yes, bike. Sometimes I do dream about her winning the Tour de France, or becoming a political leader who remakes our nation’s cities so that biking and walking are safe for everybody. But those are my dreams, not hers! I just want her to grow up as a healthy, street smart, free-range NYC kid. What are some of your tips for teaching kids to ride? It’s probably best to wait until they want it. Push bikes without pedals are best for small kids under five. They can focus on balance and not worry about pedaling.
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Tell us about Transportation Alternatives and your role within it. A lot of people don’t know that the organization is almost 40 years old! What makes us special is our 45,000-strong network of citizen supporters and a dedication to not just making bicycling better for New Yorkers, but walking and transit, too. What family resources does T.A. offer? [A child] playing on their street was once a common sight in neighborhoods. When we are at our best, we are restoring this vital element of city life by reclaiming New York City streets for families and making them safer for New Yorkers from 8 to 80 years old. What is the most common obstacle to biking in the city? According to the Department of City Planning, the biggest obstacle is the lack of secure bike parking. The real solution is coming this summer: Public bike share. With 10,000 bikes at 600 stations, riding will become as convenient as hopping on the subway. What are your top safety tips for biking as a family? Start riding in parks and greenways [and] then graduate to the street when you gain confidence and skills. Always wear helmets and bright clothing and, of course, blinky lights at night. Generally, moms and dads should ride behind the littler ones and a little more towards the middle of the street. What is your favorite biking path in NYC? The protected bike lane on Prospect Park West. I love riding in that lane on a Saturday morning with Zoe and Anna to the farmer’s market. Bikes and local food—what a combo!
DON’T MISS: The New Amsterdam Bicycle Show. Details: page 30. www.newyorkfamily.com
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The Newest Bike Gear Keeps Kids Safe And Stylin’ BY KAT HARRISON 1. LITTLE NUTTY HELMET BY NUTCASE IN DOTS $60, nutcasehelmets.com Show your brain some love! Bound to fit every noggin to perfection—thanks to its adjustable spin dial—the Little Nutty comes equipped with a soft chin strap for maximum comfort. Plus, its anti-pinch magnetic buckle lets your little one safely secure it one-handed.
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2. JOPO 16” CHILDREN’S BIKE BY HELKAMA IN BLUE $395, adelineadeline.com Let your child easily transition from a push to a pedal bike with this single-speed beauty by the popular Finnish company Helkama. Accommodating riders up to 25 lbs., the nostalgic Jopo model boasts adjustable seat and handlebar height for a just-right ride.
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3. BELL BY DRING DRING IN BORN TO RIDE $24, adelineadeline.com It doesn’t get much better than a hand-painted accessory. Void of solvents and toxic fumes, this rough-and-tumble metal bell is coated in eco-friendly paints. It’s bound to give both boys and girls an edgy biker boost. Next, watch them pop wheelies. 4. MAXI EASYFIT BY YEPP IN SILVER $189.99, gazelle.us.com Introducing the biking equivalent of the jogging stroller—but much sleeker. Yepp’s innovative child seat is suitable for kids aged 2.5-6 years, up to 48 lbs. A five-point harness and three rear reflectors ensure maximum protection and visibility for on-the-go Pop and Junior. 5. ALONG A LONG ROAD BY FRANK VIVA $16.99, alongalongroad.com Created as a continuous 35-foot-long piece of art, author and illustrator Frank Viva (perhaps you recognize his work from past New Yorker covers) manages to infuse his first storybook with the cadence of cycling in just five colors. Great for ages 3-6. 6. NIÑO HELMET BY BERN UNLIMITED IN MATTE RED $50, bernunlimited.com In this skate-influenced helmet, your cyclist will flip his lid over the lightweight and sleek, low-profile design (that’s the Zipmold® foam talking). Families will also get more bang for their buck as the Niño can transition from bike paths to ski slopes. TO WIN A COPY OF FRANK VIVA’S ALONG A LONG ROAD, VISIT OUR CONTESTS & GIVEAWAYS TAB ON NEWYORKFAMILY.COM.
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The New Amsterdam Bicycle Show 2012
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Benefiting Transportation Alternatives APRIL 28 & 29, 10am-7pm Check out the latest in biking gear and accessories at Manhattan Media’s— New York Family’s parent company—New Amsterdam Bike Show. Families can peruse exhibitors from the U.S., Europe and Asia, along with top local bike companies. There will also be a super cool fashion show, fab food and a few giveaways, too! Kids are welcome. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Skylight Soho, 275 Hudson Street, newambikeshow.com.
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3/26/12 8:21 AM
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Big Unknown Pregnant Women Have Lots Of Questions. They Often Turn To People Like Renee Sullivan For Guidance And Support. BY HeAtHer OuidA In honor of New York Family’s upcoming Baby Show (see page 14), I had the privilege of talking with doula, parent coach and Mommybites support group director, Renee Sullivan, about the many common questions and concerns on the minds of expectant moms. The first thing I want to talk about is a mom’s birthing choices because I feel like there is a lot of judgment around this. What should moms consider when deciding what scenario they and what their family unit is most comfortable with? You bring up a really good point. In the world today there are so many choices, from a traditional birth with just your OB/ GYN at the local hospital to working with a midwife, or a doula in other settings, including possibly your home. When you become pregnant other people start sending lots of opinions your way. Some people do great with lots of opinions and resources and then sort through them to make a decision. While others like to act a bit more intuitively to decide what may be best for them. The hardest part is just being able to spend the time to figure out what is really right for the family unit and not heed to all of the different advice that is offered.
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What do you think are the best ways to tell people you are pregnant—especially your boss? I’ve had moms who have very close relationships with their employers just come right out and say it. I’ve also had moms in the groups who have been six months pregnant and still hadn’t told them. Getting clear on what timing works best for you is really the best way. For me, the theme of there not being black and white answers to becoming a parent carries through to almost everything we will talk about. Parenting just does not happen like that! [laughing] In the groups moms always ask, “When does it get easier?” and I say, “Well I have a 6-year-old, I’ll let you know.” The cool thing is that we get wiser, we get more proactive so parenting doesn’t get easier per se, but we get smarter. One of the moms in the groups said, “I realized that becoming a mom has activated a super gene in my brain.” Becoming a mom helps us do so much more, take on so much more and be so much more. There’s a pot of gold on the other end, but we’re not sure if we’re going to meet a troll or a leprechaun along the way. www.newyorkfamily.com
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Speaking of meeting trolls along the way, even though I was warned about not sleeping after having a baby, I was truly unprepared for what chronic sleep deprivation felt like. Yes, it’s one of those things that you can try your best to describe but until you’ve actually had your baby, you really don’t know how prolonged sleep deprivation can feel like. And it’s the intensity of it. Never in our lives have we ever needed to always be “on”. Once you’re a parent, you’re always a parent. So I look at this not just as the difficulty of sleep deprivation but the whole bigger umbrella which is that we’re always in motion, always moving forward, always changing in ways we were not experiencing pre-baby.
the hardest part. Just when we get comfortable with a routine, things change. Keeping in mind that moms return to work after having a baby for many reasons—what are some of the things that come up in your groups around going back to work? Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a mom that works outside of the home, both want the same thing—balance. Everyone just wants to do what’s right for their family. How we define balance is different for everybody. Every few months you should ask yourself, “Am I fulfilled? Am I happy? Am I getting enough ‘me’ time? Enough baby time?”
How can pregnant moms deal with changing body issues? I hesitate to even ask this next question because I don’t want to It’s hard to see when you’re pregnant, but as soon as you have perpetuate the craziness, but should new moms even begin to the baby so much of our body concerns wash away. We all of a think about the whole NYC preschool scene? sudden get what’s real and makes us You know the whole idea of understand what’s really important. trying to predict the future doesn’t It’s like when you’re in the airplane work well for anybody. I’ve it’s really hard to see the destination. seen so many women worry and No matter how much you prep for worry about preschool, only to be the trip, read the guidebook and do transferred for work or move to Join Mommybites in The New Yorker all your research, you never really the ‘burbs or overseas. But if you Hotel’s grand ballroom on Wednesday, know what it’s like until you land. feel like you’re hearing too many May 2 at 6pm for an evening of learning, rumors and could use a solid socializing and shopping. Enjoy wine and Just to get a little shallow for one overview of the process, I like delicious food, mingle with other moms, second—what’s your magic secret Victoria Goldman’s Manhattan win incredible prizes, check out mustto stretch marks? Directory of Private Nursery have parenting products and services, and One of the best things is to stay Schools. take home fabulous goody bags! You’ll as moisturized as possible whether also hear from the best selling author of that’s using expensive creams, olive There’s a great John Lennon The Happiness Project, Gretchen Rubin, oil or cocoa butter. Another thing quote that says, “Life is what and get your parenting Qs answered from experts at the new speakers’ corner. that helps is doing our best to gain happens while you’re busy making Sign up at mommybites.com/newyork. weight slowly during the pregnancy other plans.” and also losing weight slowly Exactly! We fully experience postpartum. emotions and stress and then it shifts. And all of that stressing was really wasted energy. The OK, let’s talk sex pre-natal sex! more we can trust ourselves, believe in our child and live in the Ah, the first question a pregnant woman should ask herself is moment, the less stressed we’ll be with everything—not just “Do I want to have sex?” [laughs] Some moms want to have sex preschools! (keeping in mind you should always check with your OB/GYN). But for other moms, with all the changes of body and emotions I know some moms worry that they are doing their children a they just don’t want to and that’s OK, too. It’s important to disservice by raising them in such a fast-paced city. What do communicate to your partner that not wanting to have sex does not you tell them? mean you’re not attracted to them but rather with all the changes Yeah, NYC definitely has a different energy than other places. going on, you may not be feeling the need for it, right now. I think it’s important to consciously build in daily downtime for your children. There is so much activity in the city and often not We’ve talked a lot about a mom who gives birth biologically enough quiet time. Researchers have said that children need this but what are some questions that often come up with adoptive quiet time to process and synthesize all the external input and expecting parents? everything they have learned through the day. If you can create That’s a big one because their challenges are both similar this balance, NYC is a wonderful place to raise a family. and different. One of the biggest concerns is, “How are we going to bond with the child?” When you’re pregnant you have Heather Ouida is the Co-Founder of Mommybites, formerly so much time to get used to the idea of having a baby. Adoptive known as babybites. Renee Sullivan leads expectant and new mom parents often need more maternity leave because they didn’t groups around the city. Visit the new mommybites.com network for have those 40 weeks to adjust—and that’s OK, it’s only normal. extended education, support and advice to families with children Whether giving birth or adopting, it’s the unknown that is often of all ages.
The Ultimate Moms’ Night Out
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www.newyorkfamily.com
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activity of the month Stroller Strides
Mind, Body & Birth
From Childbirth Education To Postpartum Exercise, Here Are Some Of The City’s Best Prenatal And Postnatal Classes And Support Groups BY WhitNeY CAsser There is perhaps nobody with more questions—and the need for support—than a pregnant woman or new mother. To help, we’ve compiled a list of some of New York City’s best classes, venues and experts for maternal health and well-being.
MIND: EDUCATION, INFORMATION & ADVICE A group of trained HypnoBirthing Practitioners based in Brooklyn, A Mother’s Instinct specializes in HypnoBirthing, doula services, fertility hypnosis and belly casting. Birthing while under hypnosis is taught in a series of five once-weekly classes and groups are limited to eight couples. Classes are taught in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and North Jersey. amothersinstinct.com Founded by two trained doulas and Lamaze educators, Birth Day Presence has a bit of everything on offer, including childbirth education, breastfeeding and newborn care instruction, belly basics, CPR and even prenatal belly dance and photography services in their Park Slope and SoHo studios. birthdaypresence.net BklynBirth classes, led by local midwives, promote positive and safe birth experiences by informing women and their partners of all available options. Recognizing that the transition to becoming a parent is always unique, BklynBirth combines various schools of thought, along with professional and life experience
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to provide comprehensive guidance. Group and private classes available. bklynbirth.com Caribou Baby in Brooklyn sells baby supplies and toys focused on simple and healthy living, in addition to hosting events and expert-led classes like breastfeeding support, prenatal yoga, prenatal and post-pregnancy Pilates and postpartum support groups. Check out the store’s very full calendar online! cariboubaby.com From pregnancy through childbirth and parenting, Ellen Krug’s Choiceful Birth and Parenting offers informationseeking parents advice on how to make the most informed choices. Individualized counseling and psychotherapy offers parents the chance to explore various topics in a nurturing environment. choicefulbirth.com Choices in Childbirth is an education, outreach and advocacy organization that assists mothers-to-be in considering their prenatal options, choosing a provider and creating a birth philosophy and support team. Alongside comprehensive, childbirth education and workshops, postpartum services are also available. choicesinchildbirth.org Destination Maternity on the Upper East Side has more than just great clothes. Classes in prenatal yoga, Pilates, breastfeeding and childbirth are held on a daily basis, as well as mom support groups. destinationmaternity.com continued on page 38 www.newyorkfamily.com
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Through small evening classes limited to eight couples, Ellen Chuse Childbirth provides moms and dads with the necessary information on labor, birth, breastfeeding and newborn care. Mother’s Meetings are a great place to share experiences and gain insights. Classes held in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Private classes also available. ellenchusechildbirth.com With her expertise in childbirth education and lactation consulting, Fern Drillings schedules three-week childbirth and CPR classes and one-time intensives for couples who require private instruction. Classes are meant to be informal yet informative and are offered day, evening and weekends. ferndrillings.com Local pregnancy, birth and newborn parent consultant Lisa Gould Rubin is a published author and Founder of The Good Birth Company. With the belief that there is no right way to give birth, Rubin coaches parents in person, by phone, via email and video chat so that they can customize their own birth and new baby experience. thegoodbirthcompany.com Latham Thomas, a local specialist in maternal and child health and well-being, brings NYC families plant-based culinary services, holistic nutrition and prenatal, pregnancy and postpartum yoga instruction via Mama Glow. Her coaching supports the busy city mom who wants to integrate optimal wellness and self-care practices into her life. mamaglow.com With support groups in Manhattan, Brooklyn and also online, Mommybites presents local mothers with great opportunities to luncheon, meet in-person, attend seminars and workshops. Plus, their annual Mommybites Summit this May is an evening not to miss! mommybites.com Jessica Shapley’s Mom Support services include sleep workshops, mom support groups and parent counseling for mamas and papas with newborns and tots up to 18 months old. Programming available up and down the West Side of Manhattan, as well as the Upper East Side. momsupport.org Mom to Moms Advisor is a global childcare consultancy offering customized parenting and childcare solutions from a team of dynamic experts. In its fifth year, the organization hosts events and workshops for baby safety and nannies, as well as
Childbirth Education At Hospitals Most hospitals offer pre- and postnatal education and support classes (including Lamaze) and have come to view childbirth education as an important party of their mission. Their courses are typically more affordable than those outside of a hospital setting, and are open to any expecting or new parent, not just those planning to give birth there. Notably, St. Luke’s Roosevelt (nywomenshealth.com) offers a large menu of classes that includes everything from hypnobirthing to Lamaze refreshers. In Manhattan, Mount Sinai Hospital (mountsinai.org), NewYorkPresbyterian Hospital (nyp.org), the NYU Langone Medical Center (nyubaby.org), Beth Israel (wehealny.org) and Lenox Hill Hospital (lenoxhillhospital.org), among others, all have classes. If you’re interested in finding a class at a hospital near you, check out their websites and act promptly since many classes fill up quickly.
social events like Expectant Parents Cocktails and Dinner, as well as New Mom High Tea and New Dad High Tea support groups. momtomomsadvisor.com In addition to pregnancy guru Rosie Pope’s flagship Manhattan store, MomPrep offers an amazing curriculum of classes on childbirth and newborn care, birthing options, breastfeeding and sleep training. rosiepope.com From childbirth preparation to breastfeeding and baby care, Stork and Cradle helps expectant and new parents tap into their inner strength and build the confidence to take on parenthood. Through their association with NewYork-Presbyterian, Stork and Cradle teaches the hospital’s prenatal classes. storkandcradle.com The Tribeca Parenting education center offers a variety of classes like Expecting Reassurance, Preparation for Childbirth, Essential Baby Care and Breastfeeding Preparation. New parent classes include a Meeting Other Mothers series and Raise a Good Sleeper. Locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Jersey City. tribecaparenting.com Twiniversity has (you guessed it!) classes for parents of multiples. Courses like Twins Prep 101 and (the follow-up) 201 Intro to Twins offer plenty of tips and tricks on how to prepare and adjust for multiple bundles of joy. Private Skype sessions and home visits also available for booking. twiniversity.com continued on page 40
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oB/GYns, midwives, doulas & lactation experts If you’re searching for an OB/GYN, midwife, doula or lactation consultant, there’s no shortage of qualified people in the NYC area. Start by asking trusted friends for recommendations, but don’t take their advice as the last word. Follow your instincts. Use Google or one of your childbirth reference books to really understand the role of each provider, and take note of
questions to ask when interviewing the kind of health care provider you’re interested in working with. for oB/GYns: The major local hospitals have referral services. We also recommend trying the search engine at castleconnolly. com, which gathers Best Doctors lists using peer referrals. for doulAs: Try the following websites: DONA International (dona.org), NYC Doula Service (nycdoulaservice.com) and The Metropolitan Doula Group (metrodoula.
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The Upper East Side’s Yummy Mummy is a one-stop destination for information, products, services and classes devoted to the breastfeeding experience. Daily and weekly pre- and postnatal classes, including yoga, are offered for moms seeking support and guidance. yummymummystore.com
BODY: EXERCISE & FITNESS In addition to classes focused on transitioning into parenthood, baby safety and caring for a newborn, 92Y hosts New Dad Boot Camp, prenatal Pilates and prenatal yoga. 92y.org An eight-week weightless, water-based workout may be just the ticket for expectant mamas at AquaMom. These prenatal pool sessions promote strength, endurance, flexibility, better sleep and weight control. Small group classes are offered at private pools in the Midtown Sheraton Hotel and Léman Preparatory School in the Tribeca/Wall Street area. aquamom.com An experienced fitness instructor, Pamela Keefer founded Baby Body Boot Camp for full body conditioning targeted at moms and moms-to-be at all fitness levels. Classes are held outdoors at Battery Park City and personal training consultations are also available. b3nyc.com In its tenth year, Core Pilates NYC is conveniently located near Union Square and open seven days a week. With classes in Prenatal Tower and Prenatal Props Mat, pregnant women can focus on targeted muscles and challenge their bodies in new ways. All Pilates students can pay per class or buy packages. corepilatesnyc.com Spearheaded by Julie Tupler, Diastasis Rehab offers the famous Tupler Technique of how to lose the mummy tummy after baby. Her maternal fitness offerings are conveniently packaged in books and DVDs. You can also attend local seminars in Manhattan or Brooklyn or take part in online sessions from the privacy of your own home. Individual consultations also available. diastasisrehab.com Fitnotic is a haven for pre- and postnatal private training and group fitness classes. Offerings are geared toward expectant and new moms and women can sign up for Baby Belly Boot Camp, Pre/Postnatal Yoga, Pre/Postnatal Hoopnotica Hoopdance, D-Qube Prenatal Ballet, Pre/Postnatal Belly Dance and Pre/Postnatal Cardio Kickboxing. fitnotic.com At its new Peace-In studio, Karma Kids Yoga offers prenatal
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com). You can also speak to your OB/GYN. for midwives: Try the American College of Nurse-Midwives (midwife.org), and Choices in Childbirth (choicesinchildbirth. org)—also ask your OB/GYN. for lACtAtion experts: Try The New York Lactation Consultant Association (nylca.org). Finally, keep in mind that many of the educators we’ve highlighted in this piece could recommend good providers as well.
and adult restorative classes in yoga, Pilates, prenatal Thai yoga massage and more. Class packages are extremely flexible and your first prenatal yoga or Pilates class is free! Private sessions at home or in the studio can be 60 or 90 minutes long and require an appointment. karmakidsyoga.com With limited equipment required, Mind Over Matter Health & Fitness (MOM) brings in-home training to the forefront of prenatal and postpartum exercise. MOM helps each individual fit frequent workouts into their daily routine. Plus, mommy yoga classes are held at Manhattan Movement & Arts Center on the Upper West Side. mindovermatternyc.com The JCC in Manhattan hosts Movin’ Mamas Pilates Boot Camp and Movin’ Mamas Pilates Cardio Stroller Class, on days when the Central Park class is rained out. The intensity of the exercise increases with each class. Dads are welcome! movinmamas.com The first yoga center of its kind in NYC, the Prenatal Yoga Center’s schedule includes Pre- and Postnatal Yoga, New Mother’s Support Groups, Childbirth Education and a Breastfeeding Support Circle, all conducted in a calm, peaceful environment. Locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn. prenatalyogacenter.com The great outdoors becomes a parent’s perfect playground at Strollercize classes in all five boroughs. Founded over twenty years ago by retired ballerina Elizabeth Trindade, Strollercize has a calendar full of postnatal exercise classes, as well as a prenatal fitness program called Preparing to Push. Classes are membership based. strollercize.com Use your stroller to get a total body workout while spending time with your baby at Stroller Strides. If you’re expecting, try the Fit4Baby® class to get in shape while pregnant. Additionally, Body Back® offers high intensity workouts for women at any stage of motherhood. Classes are held in the morning and on Saturdays in Manhattan and Brooklyn. strollerstrides.com The Vanderbilt YMCA in Midtown offers two prenatal yoga classes per week while the McBurney branch hosts La Leche League of Downtown Manhattan’s breastfeeding support group. ymcanyc.org And don’t miss our new York BABY show on the weekend of mAY 19 And 20 in nYC. for event news And tiCket sAles, visit newYorkBABYshow.Com or emAil us At newYorkBABYshow@mAnhAttAnmediA.Com. www.newyorkfamily.com
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growing up
|
A good ideA
An
AmericAn
mOmIn
PAriS In Her New Book Bringing Up Bébé, Journalist And Mother Of Three Pamela Druckerman Argues That French Parents Do It Better The French may be onto something—and this time it’s not fashion or food. When American journalist Pamela Druckerman moved to Paris in 2003 and subsequently started a family, she took notice (and copious notes) on how differently the French parented compared to Americans. She has compiled her observations in a hilarious, relatable and smart new memoir, Bringing Up Bébé (The Penguin Press), which covers everything from schooling to snack time to sleeping habits. And while American critics seem quick to consider the book an antidote to Tiger Mom’s ferocious style of ultra-competitive parenting, a balanced temperament is what’s helping Druckerman make waves in the parenting world. Your book has recently released stateside. Would you say the reception in the U.S. has been good, critical or both? It’s interesting! I feel like the reaction in the media has been, at times, critical. But the reaction I’m getting from readers has been overwhelmingly positive. I’m struck by how there’s a larger conversation going on right now, and my book is just a small part of that. These conversations are about the intensive style of parenting that has developed in the United States over the past 20 years or so, and there’s a real hunger for alternatives. Is it more important to you that readers give you positive feedback, as opposed to the media? Absolutely! I definitely would like everyone to love me, but that’s just because I was over-praised as a child. Was there an exact moment of inspiration that made you decide to write this book? I think my “aha” moment was [what] I describe at the
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Benjamin Barda
BY MeghAN geAriNo
beginning of the book. I was at a restaurant with my 16-month-old daughter when I was on vacation and I noticed that the French families all around us were NOT having a horrible experience. From there, along with the things I had seen over that year and a half, everything just sort of clicked and I thought “I want some of that!” From there, it became this detective story for me to try and figure out what French parents were doing. It was both the reporter in me and the desperate mother in me. In the book, French women are perceived as more confident in both themselves and in their parenting skills. They definitely don’t worry that they’ve chosen the right parenting philosophy because there aren’t lots of different parenting philosophies to choose from. But also, I think they are really pragmatic—they stick with what works. That is one thing that struck me regarding French approaches. The French are not reinventing the wheel. They hone in on and stick with [a] few key things that really do work. You also talk about American women holding a lot of guilt in regards to parenthood. Guilt is very much in the room for French mothers—it’s not that they banish guilt or don’t talk about it. But they treat it differently. I think American mothers, in some way, embrace guilt. We feel it’s a tax we pay for being able to do the things we want. continued on page 44 www.newyorkfamily.com
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Illustration by Margaux Motin, Design by Darren Haggar
For instance, if we say: “I’m a bad mother,” then that allows us to take time for ourselves. We don’t think it’s OK to be selfish. French mothers say: “Guilt is a trap. The perfect mother doesn’t exist.” They don’t want to contaminate their scarce free time by feeling guilty. I loved your example about how French women don’t feel guilty for spending time alone with their husbands or going on dates. They think every human being, even a baby, needs time to themselves! That’s non-negotiable. You just have to be able to find that free time. French women often work full-time and they have just as many babies as we do in America, but they prioritize this time to themselves. As far as “American experiences” go, is there anything you feel that your children (or you!) have missed out on? Socially, it’s harder to make friends in France… There are no mommy groups and you’re probably not going to make friends for life with the mommy whose kid is playing with your kid in the sandbox... I’m also concerned about French schools later on; I think [they] get really tough. There’s a lot of emphasis on the negative, and not as much positive reinforcement in the schools.
So what role does sex play in a couple’s post-baby life? The French state pays for perineal reeducation, which is the reeducation of the birth canal [including muscle exercises]. Part of that is for health reasons, but part of that is so you can have a normal sex life again. Once you become a mom, it doesn’t mean you are no longer a woman. There’s a part in my book when I tell my French friends about the term MILF, and they thought it was hilarious because they think there is no reason why a woman shouldn’t be sexy just because she’s a mom!
What is the most important lesson we can take away from French parents? Definitely the lessons around food. There are no “kids foods” in France. You can find a chicken nugget if you look really hard for it, but its not like French kids are offered it everywhere they turn. In America, the fact that kids can eat everything and that they snack all the time is so different from the French way. French kids snack once a day, in the afternoon. That makes it more likely that they will actually be hungry when they sit down to eat. The tasting principle is also great! The French practice this, which basically means you don’t have to eat everything; you just have to taste it.
“I [told] my French friends about the term MILF, and they thought it was hilarious because they think there is no reason why a woman shouldn’t be sexy just because she’s a mom!”
You talk briefly about French fathers. How do they differ from American dads? If you look at the statistics at how much childcare and housework French fathers do, they do less than American fathers, on average. So I would say there’s less of a battle of the sexes in households. In general, I think French mothers don’t expect things to be 50/50 as much as Americans do. So when they don’t get it, they are less disappointed!
What about French marriages? When my American mom-friends and I get together, we do a lot of complaining about husbands and what they don’t do. Whereas with my French girlfriends, that conversation doesn’t go on as much. They might be just as unhappy as we are, but they don’t blame their unhappiness on their husbands. There’s definitely still divorce there, but couples in France have more of an assumption that after the first few tumultuous, all-consuming months after the baby is born, that you have to “find your couple” again, find each other again. Everyone in France expects that you are going to resume your relationship!
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Can you tell us about the practice of “autonomie” that the French teach their children? You said it was hard at first for you to get used to it. I think autonomy begins with reading kids’ clues and being in touch with their rhythms and not interrupting when they are absorbed in something. It’s not about turning them loose when they are babies. It’s about giving them freedom to entertain themselves, and having them learn how to cope with frustration and being alone. It’s important for them to be comfortable in their own skin and to enjoy their own company. And not need to be stimulated all the time. The reason I feel like I could write about French families is because I feel like I have a lot in common with them. They believe in reading to children, and talking to them and stimulating them—just not all the time! For more oF our interview with Pamela Druckerman, visit newyorkFamily.com. www.newyorkfamily.com
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Alexandra & Alexis Alexis: Dress by More of Me Maternity, available at gilt.com. Necklace by Ranjana Khan. Alexandra: Dress, belt and bracelets, her own. Earrings by Citrine by the Stones. Ring by I’m Jewel. Hair and make-up by Ingeborg, using John Masters Organics.
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www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:32 AM
The
GilTed
AGe By Erika Thormahlen
How Gilt Groupe Entrepreneurs Alexandra Wilkis Wilson & Alexis Maybank Built The Hottest Online Shopping Experience–And Took On Manhattan Motherhood
In just four months, NYC moms Alexandra Wilkis Wilson and Alexis Maybank grew their passion for sample sale shopping into a members— only “flash sale” e-commerce site alluringly coined Gilt Groupe, a lunchtime guilty pleasure at first only whispered on the lips of in-the-know fashionistas. Aimed at motivated customers with some disposable income and limited time, Gilt reaches a sophisticated and dynamic clientele—much like its founders. In just over four years,
Photography by Christopher Logan Styling by beckiemartina, re-stylists www.newyorkfamily.com
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the pair of Harvard Business School grads, who met as undergraduates at Harvard in a Portuguese language class, have grown their “shop by appointment” model into the web’s ultimate source for deals and steals on high heels and high-end handbags. April 2012 | New York Family
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Now, with over five million members and a bevy of incarnations within their brand ranging from Gilt Baby & Kids apparel and accessories to Gilt Taste’s gourmet foods, from Park & Bond’s menswear offerings to Jetsetter’s luxury travel packages, the duo share more than a penchant for bargain shopping and business strategies as both are working wives and mothers to children under the age of two. And while they’re often mistaken for one another—using that to their advantage during hectic times when they need to stand in for each other at the office—Alexis and Alexandra are two moms with similar hopes for their children, but each with a parenting style all her own. We sat down with the sample-sale savvy pair to talk motherhood and Mr. Valentino, and the world they’ve created in which the two actually can co-exist. Alexis, you’re currently due with your second child, a boy, in two and a half weeks. Rumor has it that you were wearing über-high heels very far into your pregnancy. Has your daughter Thomasina followed in the footsteps of Mom and caught the fashion bug yet? Alexis: She’s 16 months old now and obsessed with anything that can be a necklace, but that’s all in terms of fashion. I think she’d prefer to run around in a bathing suit as opposed to dresses. How would you describe your children’s personalities? Alexis: Thomasina is very active. She loves to throw balls, go climbing, and when she sees a rock she goes scrambling up it. Alexandra: My son, Conrad, is 22 months. As you can see today, at a photo shoot with 15 unfamiliar faces in the apartment, he’s not fazed. He’s very enthusiastic, very friendly. He’s like that on the plane; when we fly somewhere he literally wants to say “hi” to every passenger that walks by and he’s surprised when people don’t say “hi” back. You’re raising Conrad bilingual. Why was that meaningful for you? Alexandra: My mother is actually from Cuba so it’s important to me that he be comfortable in both English and Spanish. I actually speak five languages and my husband went to high school in Switzerland so his French is really good, but we thought: let’s start with two languages and then we’ll introduce more when the time is right. You both live in New York City. How do you spend a typical weekend with your families? Alexis: We’re always out playing in Central Park. In the snow, rain, any time, any weather. We bundle [Thomasina] up and we go out. We also do the museum thing quite a bit. The craziest one we went to was the Children’s Museum of Manhattan. Oh my, I felt like afterwards I needed a cocktail it was so crazy. But [she] loved it. Alexandra: We live really close to The Metropolitan Museum of Art and one Saturday afternoon Conrad was running around the Temple of Dendur and saying “hi” to all the Roman and Greek statues and looking at the Egyptian mummies. I look at my husband and, even though I grew up here, I’m still amazed at how lucky we are.
What excites you most about parenting right now? Alexis: My favorite thing is watching Thomasina grow, develop and become her own little person. Watching her discover a new word or learn how to scale her high chair in ten seconds. Alexandra: Two weeks ago, Conrad said “I love you” for the first time and that was a really special moment that I’ll remember forever. Tell us about some of the challenges of having children fast approaching the Terrible Twos. Alexandra: I expect that there are going to be challenges in parenting at all ages. At this stage, Conrad is opinionated but he can’t always communicate it. That must be frustrating for a child. Alexis: The most challenging thing is obviously balancing work and family. Each day you either feel like you’re a better professional woman, other days you feel like you’re a better parent. You never feel great at both. So, how did becoming a parent change your approach to work? Alexandra: The first two years of building Gilt Groupe were so physically and emotionally demanding I think it would have become very tough to enter motherhood at that stage. For those who know me both professionally and personally, they know it was hard for me not to be multitasking, so I was on email pretty quickly after becoming a mother, but I did actually take 12 weeks physically out of the office. Take us behind the scenes a working mom. How do you do it? Alexis: We have a wonderful woman who helps us during the week and then my mother helps quite a bit, too. My mother is also a very accomplished chef so I know [Thomasina is] eating well. There’s nothing Thomasina doesn’t eat at this point which is all a credit to my mother. Alexandra, you often travel on behalf of the company. How do you get your Conrad fix when you’re overseas? Alexandra: We Skype, we video chat and now he can talk on the phone to me. Even though there’s no replacement for putting a baby to bed and reading a bedtime story. So let’s talk chronology, when did you have the idea for Gilt Groupe? Alexis: Summer 2007. And when did it launch? Alexis: November 13, 2007. Alexandra: We move really fast. Alexis: But that’s part of the beauty of the Internet; you can have an idea and launch it in months, not years. What about the idea of an online sample sale attracted you both as businesswomen? Alexis: We felt if we’d drop anything, if we’d shape our own workdays around popping in line for ten minutes to check out what was at the Valentino sample sale, then it was something that might have legs. continued on page 50
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You’ve sold everything on Gilt from the opportunity to ski with the US Ski Team to tickets for Fashion Week shows. Which sales have amazed or excited you most? Alexis: We had Alexander McQueen’s last collection on the site. On a happier note, we had Mr. Valentino’s last runway collection; it was his very last show before he retired. We also sold men’s skirts from Thom Browne which surprised me at how quickly they flew off the shelf! Alexandra: The first time we did Christian Louboutin was pretty crazy, too. We warned our engineers that it was going to be big and even with all the warnings they didn’t anticipate the online frenzy that the brand created. How do you continue to grow Gilt Groupe when it was originally built around exclusivity? Alexis: When we launched the business as members-only, it was the antithesis of e-commerce. You’re not supposed to draw up a wall and not let people pass, but we did it and it’s allowed us to do some really unique things. Every time someone comes to visit the site we know exactly who she or he is, what they tried to buy, what they like to buy, the colors, the sizes, what they look at, every stroke of the mouse, if you will. So when an email goes out to millions of people, there’s over 3,000 versions of that one email reflective of what a person is interested in shopping for. When a shopper loses out on a sale, how do you get them to come back again? Alexis: We thought it would actually be hard to teach that. Alexandra: I think they realized that it’s appointment shopping. If you really are interested in a particular brand and miss out once or twice, you learn. Alexis: It’s usually just once! The very next time they get there at 12:01 PM Eastern Time.
Alexis: When [the publisher] told us it would be a year and a half to get the book out the door, we were like, “Really? It only took four months to get the business out the door!” What do you hope readers take away from the book? Alexandra: Hopefully, there’s a message in there for anyone whether it’s entrepreneurs looking to start a business or people who can adapt entrepreneurial lessons to their day-to-day jobs or lives. Speaking of sharing advice, have you received any parenting tips from one another that have been helpful as working mothers? Alexis: Alexandra is so organized. I basically replicate every decision she makes because I assume she has invested tons of time researching every decision. I trust her instinct. Alexandra: Alexis has a real adventurous side to her, a ridinghorses-bareback type of thing. I think that sense of adventure is really important especially with a boy. When we spend time together, I’m usually the one watching out to make sure the kids don’t fall and hurt themselves. She’s much more “let kids be kids, they’re going to learn for themselves.” I think she’s taught me a little bit of that. So, what’s penciled into your calendars this year either personally or professionally? Alexandra: We’re doing a lot more thematic sales that we didn’t do as much in the early days of Gilt. Sometimes women are just looking for the perfect trench coat or the little black dress, so now we mix the brands. Alexis: I’ll have two kids under two this year, and I’m not sure I’m going to remember any of 2012! G
G Your book By Invitation Only (Penguin), which releases this month, shares the story behind Gilt Groupe’s meteoric rise. Was writing the book similar to running a business? Alexandra: It’s a slow process. It’s a lot slower than how quickly we moved with Gilt.
By Invitation Only Tips For Modern Businesswomen
HIRE TO YOUR SHORTCOMINGS. When building any team, whether it’s part of a big company or starting a family concept, you have to look at how similar or dissimilar you are and hire to your shortcomings. If everyone is equally good at seeing the big picture but not as good as looking at the details you could all very easily be running down the same path in the wrong direction.
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GET A SOUNDING BOARD. Always form your own informal board of directors that you can turn to and ask questions so you have that unbiased source of feedback. NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK. It’s really true that you often do as well as those around you want you to do. Look at who’s in your life and who might be helpful for advice or business
relationships; it’s a great place to start when you have no business track record whatsoever. SEEK OUT ONLINE RESOURCES. Harvard Business Review is a fun and easy business resource. You can download things for just a dollar or two, like how to put together an effective presentation to venture capitalists or investors.
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Iman wows on the red carpet before the show.
Daniel S. Burnstein photos
M
“Nothing is more beautiful to me than wearing gorgeous, vibrant colors to bring on spring!”
Audrey McClelland of Mom Generations in T.J.Maxx.
ama StrutS
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With Gorgeous Clothes, Glamorous Styling And Even A Stroller Or Two, More Than 20 Hot Moms Walked The Runway For NYC Fashion Week’s First Ever Show For Mothers www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:29 AM
S
Melissa Gerstein of The MoMs in Tory Burch. Her daughter, Lily, is wearing The Children’s Place.
her www.newyorkfamily.com
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“My kids will hopefully be inspired to always do their best to live their dreams.”
Getty images for Fashionable Mom
“There were huge smiles on our models from ear to ear and that is something that you don’t see on every runway during Fashion Week.”
Denise Albert of The MoMs in pants by Bloomingdale’s and top by INC International Concepts @ Macy’s.
tuff
BY WhitNeY CAsser
April 2012 | New York Family
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“Before I went out for the first time, I was shaking like a leaf. But, once I made that first turn, I just let it all go and lived in the moment.”
“Moms need clothes that make them feel great and are easy to care for. I have clothes that make me happy, clothes that make me feel powerful, clothes that are fun and clothes I know will cause some stares.”
Holly Pavlika of MOM-entum in blazer by Chris Benz, dress by Laundry by Shelli Segal and handbag by IMAN Platinum Collection (hsn.com).
Vera Sweeney of Lady and the Blog in Marshalls.
A studded gold dress softened by a lightweight cream jacket makes for an ultra-glam metallic-and-neutral mix.
Carol Cain of NYCityMama in Macy’s.
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Photos by Daniel S. Burnstein and Getty Images for Fashionable Mom
Music prodigy DJ Fulano kept the energy pumping in threads by Gap.
This simple blue frock is loose enough for comfortable wear, but shows off a growing belly in its most flattering form.
Lauren Jimeson of A Mommy in the City in HATCH. continued on page 56
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“Casual in the city” easily transforms to “party in the Hamptons” with this tanand-tangerine number, perked up by a brightly colored hobo.
Nicole Feliciano of MomTrends in dress by Rachel Roy, handbag by IMAN Platinum Collection (hsn.com) and cuff by Virgins, Saints & Angels. So what was walking the runway like for this group of smartand-stylish-moms-cum-models? “The energy was palpable,” remarks Holly Pavlika, one of the show’s main contributors and President of MOM-entum. And with hits from Rihanna, Cyndi Lauper and Beyoncé bursting from the DJ booth—manned by an eight-year-old disc jockey—inside a packed house of about 250 attendees, the moms had a ball strutting their stuff and energizing the crowd with fresh ready-to-wear clothes and a clear message. “[It’s] simple,” says Vera Sweeney of Lady and the Blog. “There isn’t a single thing that moms can’t accomplish.” “I hope that Strut, along with a list of future initiatives, inspires women and mothers to fully accept fashion as a part of their lifestyle,” says Wolkoff. “Fashion should empower women to embrace their beauty at every stage of their life, and provide us with confidence to look and feel as wonderful as the families and careers we have strived to sustain.” To say that the days of mom jeans are gone forever would be a pipe dream, but Strut takes a sleek step in the right direction. “Our hope for the show was that moms would finally have a voice in the fashion space,” adds McClelland. “It’s essential for every woman—regardless of shape, size or age—to feel beautiful and confident.”
Daniel S. Burnstein photo
tyle maven, world-famous model and mother of two gorgeous girls, the iconic Iman attended New York’s most recent Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week greeted by a flock of eager photographers and fashion enthusiasts. And while she stunned onlookers in a purple lace top, matching skirt and black stilettos—Iman wasn’t navigating the catwalk with her signature swagger. This time, she was cheering on more than 20 other moms who were rocking the runway for Fashion Week’s first ever Strut: The Fashionable Mom Show. “This is the perfect example of moms following their dreams and making them happen,” says Denise Albert of multi-platform lifestyle company The MoMs. The idea for a fashion show dedicated to mothers was hatched when Albert and her business partner, Melissa Gerstein, decided that they could combine the habitually separate worlds of fashion and motherhood in an amazing production featuring real women. “We hit the ground running hard and brainstormed daily ideas,” remembers Gerstein. “Our golden ticket came when we decided to approach Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, the Director of Fashion for Lincoln Center. She loved us and the idea, and blessed it from day one. She opened so many doors for us and the rest is history!” With moms in mind, Wolkoff—an IMG Consultant—reached out to her contacts in the fashion world and started networking on behalf of the budding show. “When Strut was first proposed to me by the team behind The MoMs, I recognized its concept as engaging and nuanced,” says Wolkoff. “I green light initiatives that are presenting something unprecedented with a thoughtful spin.” As plans started to come together, the widespread family and home life communities became enthusiastic about the parentfocused fashion project. Clorox sponsored a Twitter-azzi pit right off the runway and major brands like T.J.Maxx, Marshalls, Matrix, Coldwater Creek, Clorox and Quinny, among others, got on board. And to give the show an extra bit of flair, Frederick Anderson and Douglas Hannant of Douglas Hannant donated a beautiful set design, complete with brilliant autumnal colors, a tree-lined double-runway and fake leaves that crunched underfoot. Showcasing versatile fashions that can be worn to the office or the playground (or even to that ever-elusive date night with the hubby), Strut presented looks that appeal to the modern mom regardless of her lifestyle, career or daily grind. The featured looks, which are all available in stores now, ranged from affordable to special splurges, from casual and comfy to elegant and chic. Meanwhile, Gerstein echoed a common sentiment among busy mothers of today: “We are always racing around for our children and the household chores so we take less time for ourselves or we cannot afford to focus as much on ourselves anymore.” Motivated by this nearly universal truth, Strut created a moment for mothers to turn the focus on themselves, how they look and—most importantly—how they feel. From the physical transformations accompanying pregnancy to the changes in taste and lifestyle that go with maturing as a mom, Strut found a way to speak to women in all phases of motherhood. “When we were younger, it was all about keeping up with the trends and the styles,” notes Audrey McClelland of Mom Generations and Co-Founder of Getting Gorgeous. “As we get older, it’s about bringing in the timeless pieces that are classic and fabulous.”
For a slideshow From strut: the Fashionable mom show visit newyorkFamily.com. www.newyorkfamily.com
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Res ue 10 Tips For Taking The Stress Out Of The Baby Checklist (Plus, Some Products Picks From The Pros) BY LeAh BLAck One of the first thoughts to strike a new parent—after feelings of joy, of course—is just how much stuff their new bundle of cuteness requires. Hence, the baby registry: a smart way to keep track of baby’s needs while providing loved ones with the chance to give you something they know you’ll love. But creating a baby registry can be an overwhelming process. I remember standing in the middle of buybuy BABY with my all-powerful laser gun, frozen with indecision over which changing pad to scan. There’s just so much stuff out there—and every parent wants the best. To help the over-stressed parent-to-be, we asked for 10 tips from the registry experts. continued on page 60
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1. Start early “This gives you plenty of time to consider your choices and change your mind,” says Ali Wing, Founder and CEO of giggle, who recommends registering four or five months before your due date. “It also allows for proper lead time on larger items and special orders,” she adds. And if the baby comes early, you’ll be glad everything is taken care of! 2. USe Starter checkliStS “Let someone else do the homework for you,” says Wing. Rather than beginning your registry from scratch, use checklists available at stores like giggle and community websites like thebump.com to help jumpstart the process—they outline the basic gear and clothing that newborns need. 3. talk to other new parentS With so many products on the market, it can be confusing to discern what you truly need. Asking new moms and dads who’ve been there can help. “They can tell you what was great, what worked for them and what they thought was pointless,” says Ingrid Prueher, Founder of NYC Baby Planner. 4. toUch and feel “It’s important to try out what you’re getting,” says Prueher. Sure, you don’t have to leave your home to create a registry, but it’s a good idea. A baby blanket may appear luxuriously soft on your computer screen, but have a very different texture when you get your hands on it. continued on page 62
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Britax Marathon 70 XE Convertible Car Seat Monte Design
Spruce Up Any Registry With Joya Rocker Hand-Picked Items From The Pros MOST POPULAR ERGObaby Performance Carrier. This new model is one-third lighter than the standard ERGO carrier and allows babies to be cradled with both legs to one side. (thebump.com) UPPAbaby Vista Stroller in Pink. Features both a bassinet and seat, folds super-easily and comes in a color exclusive to this store. (buybuy BABY) Baby Brezza One Step Baby Food Maker. Load food and water into the machine, pick a steam time and get a healthy baby puree in minutes. (Babies “R” Us) Dr. Brown’s Sterilizer Gift Set. The bottles help reduce feeding problems like colic, spit-up, burping and gas, and come with a sterilizing system. (Albee Baby)
THE TODDLER YEARS Chicco 360 Hook-On High Chair. It swivels 360 degrees, is machinewashable and folds up into a carry bag. (thebump.com) Britax Marathon 70 XE Convertible Car Seat. Grows with your child from birth to 70 pounds. (buybuy BABY) Chicco Polly Magic High Chair. This sturdy high chair has a snap-on tray and fits baby from the newborn stage to the toddler years. (Babies “R” Us) UPPAbaby G-Luxe Stroller. A lightweight umbrella stroller with a convenient carry strap and great sun canopy. (Albee Baby)
NEW & COOL Joovy Groove Stroller. A great value, the Groove umbrella stroller is available in four colors and can be used with babies as young as three months old. Featured n next page. (buybuy BABY) Boon Naked Collapsible Baby Bathtub. Can be reclined to cradle a newborn and collapses flat for easy storage. (thebump.com) Magnificent Baby Layette. A luxuriously soft layette with magnetic enclosures that make changing baby a breeze. (buybuy BABY) Chewbeads Jewelry. Stylish necklaces for mom made of colorful, non-toxic beads baby can teethe on. (Albee Baby)
NEW MOM INDULGENCE Beaba Bib’Expresso. It may look like a chic espresso machine but this one actually lets moms prepare a bottle of formula milk (or warm up breast milk) at the perfect temperature in just 90 seconds. (thebump.com) Belli Best Baby Bump Duo. Pregnant moms will love these two luxurious and non-toxic products: Elasticity Belly Oil and All Day Moisture Body Lotion. (buybuy BABY) Monte Design Joya Rocker. A modern rocker that mom will use beyond the baby years. (giggle) Timi & Leslie Diaper Bag. A stylish way to carry baby essentials. (Albee Baby) www.newyorkfamily.com
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5. Combine several registries into one Most parents end up registering at several stores. To make life easier for you and gift-givers, consolidate all your registries into one place by using a website like amazingregistry.com, recommends Prueher. 6. strike a balanCe between now and later “The amount of clothes we get for newborns is crazy because they outgrow them so quickly,” says Prueher. Instead of registering for countless onesies, include toddler gear like a high chair or umbrella stroller you’ll need later. 7. don’t stress over priCe points “Unlike bridal registries, it’s typical for a baby registry to have a lot of smaller items and everyday essentials,” says Wing. Choosing items with a range of prices lets you accommodate all budgets. Include splurges, too. “You never know when friends or family might want to go in together on a gift!” she says. 8. register for gift Cards If you’re unsure of what to register for, include a few gift cards. Family and friends are often happy to give them and “it leaves room for items you may need later on [after the baby is born],” says Wing. 9. don’t keep your registry a seCret People want to give you something you’ll use, so don’t be shy about spreading the word about your registry. Take advantage of stores that have insert cards for shower invitations, recommends Wing. “Or ask to see if they have an e-mail template so you can send notifications from their websites,” she says.
Joovy Groove Stroller
10. remember what’s important In the end, what’s on your registry isn’t going to make or break your life as a new parent. “Babies need a home, they need to be loved, to be changed and fed, and they need a certain amount of clothes,” says Prueher. “Everything else is just accessories.”
u
And don’t miss our NEW YORK BABY ShOW on the weekend of May 19 and 20 in NYC. For event
news and ticket sales, visit newyorkbabyshow.com or email us at newyorkbabyshow@manhattanmedia.com.
EDITOR PICKS
Bittylab BARE. This air-free baby bottle masterfully imitates a mother’s breast like no other. (bittylab.com) Lazoo Colors! Board Book. A bright and beautiful adventure, great for bedtime stories or read-onyour-own quiet time for children ages 1 and up. (J&R, Jr.) Lansinoh® Affinity® Double Electric Breast Pump. With hospital-grade performance and adjustable settings, this pump offers maximum efficiency. (Babies “R” Us) Zutano “What A Zoo” Baby Dress. A fun and colorful, 100% cotton outfit for little ladies to wear up to two years old. (zutano.com)
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BY MEGHAN GEARINO, KAT HARRISON AND ELIZABETH RAYMOND We doubt that anyone thinks of New York City as a summer camp mecca—but by most standards, it really is. Consider all the children’s activity centers and enrichment programs that the city is blessed with. Some go on hiatus and some slow down in the summertime, same programming but less of it. But many others take what they do best and build wonderful day camps around their core offerings. If you tally all of the day camps in the city along with all of the day camps within an hour’s drive, you have an extraordinary menu of summer experiences. From traditional day camps that offer a mix of sports, crafts and field trips, to camps that devote more of their day to culture, science, music and other specialties—chances
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are, you can find a camp that’s a good fit for your child depending on their age and interests. If you have a child who is four years old or younger, who may not be ready for a full day of camp much less a full summer, day camps typically offer scheduling options, including camp sessions that are just a few hours a day and one or two weeks long. If you have an older child, they might be ready (and you might be, too) to put them on a bus in the morning to a camp outside of city, so they can have camp fun in a more rural setting—and perhaps take the first step in the direction of a sleepaway camp experience. Whatever you decide is right for your child, there is one standard where you should not compromise: Camp should be fun, and your child should feel like he or she is making friends. If that’s not happening, it ain’t the right camp—keep looking! www.newyorkfamily.com
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GENERAL INTEREST DAY CAMPS OUTSIDE THE CITY Quintessentially summer, Woodmont Day Camp offers performing arts, athletics, and arts and crafts for each of its age-appropriate “villages”. Looking for a nurturing Jewish environment? The Neil Klatskin Day Camp will take your kiddo boating, hiking and even host a few carnivals. If your child is ready to unleash their creative side, don’t miss Gate Hill Day Camp for jewelry-making, tie-dye and ceramics. North Shore Day Camp also provides woodworking and leather arts. For something off-the-wall, Buckley Country Day Camp offers special events such as a camp-wide talent show, Olympics Week and pony rides. Can’t get your fish out of the water? Pierce Country Day Camp has their very own sprayground and water park with below ground geysers and fountains, and also offers water ballet and volleyball lessons. Only 35 minutes from Manhattan, The JCC’s Day Camp @ Pearl River offers twice-a-day swimming with a slide just for the big kids. Future farmers should check out The Nature Place Day Camp, which houses a chicken coop, bee hives and composting piles. Located in White Plains, Mohawk Day Camp has an onsite farm with chickens, cows and peacocks alongside gardens and an apple orchard. If petting zoos, gardening and fishing is more your child’s forte, check out Spring Lake Day Camp. For the athletic-minded, Deer Mountain Day Camp provides all-things fencing, archery, rugby, cricket and GaGa. In New Rochelle, Mount Tom Day Camp features a menu of more traditional sports such as kickball, football, golf and tennis. The New York YMCA Camp offers adventurous outdoor adrenaline rushes on their ropes courses, with some fast-flung archery in between. And the 92YCamps not only offer soccer, a minizipline and skateboarding activities—but the fun is a mere 20-minute bus ride away. GENERAL INTEREST DAY CAMPS INSIDE THE CITY It’s important to keep kids active when school’s out for the summer. The Summer Breeze Day Camp by Gymtime Rhythm & Glues and York Avenue Preschool is a perfect choice, letting young campers tuck & roll in a state-of-the-art gym while cooking and enjoying library time. And with a new facility in Battery Park City, Summer Day Camp at
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Asphalt Green has everything from t-ball to martial arts, with weekly trips to popular venues like the Bronx Zoo and Liberty Science Center. Speaking of animals, The Art Farm in The City is a diamond in the rough for city kids, with its on-site petting zoo and specialization in animal care. They organize the summer by themes like Tropical Excursion, Circus Mania and Wild Wild West. Special days like pajama and BBQ day dot The Mandell School’s Explorer Camp schedule, where all of the counselors are experiences teachers. Or you can give your tot a head start on the camp experience with Poppyseed PreNursery. This mini-camp allows you to join your toddler for picnics, singing and painting. For an all-around summer camp experience, look no further than Bank Street Summer Camp. Depending on their age, kids can partake in swimming, fishing, Spanish immersion and cabaret. A summer at Camp Léman features woodworking, silly science experiments and a rooftop playground. With multi-borough locations, Oasis Day Camp spotlights field trips and special guests. Plus, kids can get pumped up every morning with cheers and a song— classic camp-style. Thespians and dance aficionados ages 5-10 will love the Babes on Broadway camp by Discovery Programs whereas the LIU Children’s Academy Summer Camp leads children in a different direction, offering robotics, fashion design, cinema and comic book creation. SPECIALTY DAY CAMPS THEMATIC A haven for children ages 3 to 4—camp apple seeds engages kids in activities like cooking and dramatic play according to weekly themes such as American Road Trip and Make Believe. Running for 11 weeks, the Summer Days Camp at 74th St. MAGIC provides a plush, private rooftop for outdoor play—a boon for Growing In The Garden week. At Kidville, we’re especially tickled by the Fairy Princess and Superhero Training camps which let storybook heroes and heroines come to life for little ones. And then it’s all about the sea and the stars at Camp Intrepid, where campers ages 5 to 13 can curate their own exhibits, speak like a swashbuckler and explore the next frontier. MULTI-SPORT With low coach-to-camper ratios, your budding athlete (of any sport) is
sure to succeed in the age-divided Kids In Sports summer sessions, which also feature storytime and arts & crafts. Or join the Sports Academy at Chelsea Piers for a roster that includes volleyball and European team handball, among the usual sporty suspects. At Corbin’s Crusaders Day Camp—located a mere 25 minutes from the city—ultimate Frisbee, archery, GaGa, and Go-Kart fun will fill the hours. TENNIS Dust off those racquets! The Advantage Sea & Sports Camp gives your athlete a chance to play on the beautiful Maritime College waterfront and provides your child with 4-6 hours of instruction and practice, with an optional swim time. Another great option is the 2012 Excel Summer Camp by the John McEnroe Tennis Academy and SPORTIME Randall’s Island. Along with intensive instruction and technique development, campers can also participate in tennis-specific cross-training like soccer and ultimate Frisbee. SOCCER Just in time for Euro 2012, Super Soccer Stars offers various camps, depending on your little kicker’s age and skill set. Summer camp at the Carlos Oliveira Soccer Academy focuses on both individual skills and fundamentals of team play. This Brazilian-style soccer camp on the Upper West Side is available for half or full days BASEBALL Boost your slugger’s sense of sportsmanship and teamwork with The Baseball Center NYC’s summer program—which includes both indoor and outdoor segments of pitching, hitting, fielding and base running. And develop a real love for the game through On Deck NY with skill-building drills and daily competitions in Central Park. GYMNASTICS Tiny tumblers should somersault their way to Jodi’s Gym for parachute play and hands-on art fun for a summer camp where music usually reigns at the beginning of each day. And with two locations, NYC Elite offers families a full or half day option to experience a world of swimming, balance beams and storytime. www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:26 AM
Swimming - A Sport for Life • NEW location
at 86th and 2nd Ave • Specializing in Infants to Adults
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NEW YORK CITY
Join Us This Summer for Classes & Camps!
Classes for 0–5 yrs.
Week-Long Camps for K-9 gr.
Classes from May 29 – Aug. 9
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184 East 76th St. New York, NY 10021
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(212) 717-0703
Call Us Today! applauseny.com
3/23/12 3:56 PM
THE VENUES 74th St. MAGIC 74magic.com 92Y 92y.org Advantage Tennis Clubs advantagetennisclubs.com American Museum of Natural History amnh.org Applause NYC applauseny.com apple seeds appleseedsnyc.com Asphalt Green asphaltgreen.org Bank Street bnkst.edu Bronx Zoo bronxzoo.com Buckley Country Day Camp buckleycamp.com Butter Beans Food & Garden Camp butterbeanskitchen.com Carlos Oliveira Soccer Academy cosacademy.com Chelsea Piers chelseapiers.com Children’s Museum of the Arts cmany.org Collina Italiana collinaitaliana.com Corbin’s Crusaders corbinscrusaders.com Day Jams dayjams.com Deer Mountain Day Camp deermountaindaycamp.com
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Discovery Programs discoveryprograms.com Drake Bennett Summer Schools drakebennett.org French Institute Alliance Française fiaf.org Gate Hill Day Camp gatehilldaycamp.com Gymtime Rhythm & Glues gymtime.net HiArt! hiartkids.com Home Cooking New York homecookingnewyork. memberlodge.org Intrepid Museum intrepidmuseum.org JCC In Manhattan jccmanhattan.org Jodi’s Gym jodisgym.com Joffrey Ballet School joffreyballetschool.com Kids at Art kidsatartnyc.com Kids at Work kidsatworknyc.com Kids In Sports kisnyc.com Kidville kidville.com Launch Math launchmath.com Léman Manhattan Preparatory School lemanmanhattan.org LIU Children’s Academy liu.edu Lucy Moses School kaufman-center.org/lms
The Art Farm in The City www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:27 AM
The Diller-Quaile School of Music
30
yrs. of Fun, Frien ds, & Fitness !
Early Childhood Music Classes (Infants - 6 Years) Music & Art Preschool Classes Instrument & Voice Lessons
fo r k id s 9 mos to 12 yrs
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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Register now for 2012-2013 classes!
teeny tumblers • mighty muscle movers rockin’ rollers • jodi’s jumpstart • tumbling tots creative cartwheeling kids • funtastic gymnastics totally tumbling • motion evolution • mad science • creation station • open play • jodis to go • best birthdays ever • summer mini camps!
www.jodisgym.com
244 E. 84th St. NYC • 212.772.7633
3/23/12 3:59 PM
ACADEMIC Keep your kiddo’s mind fresh this August with the academic day camp offered by Drake Bennett Summer Schools. Divided into two sessions and housed at The Epiphany School, 1st-6th graders can brush up with lessons in literacy, math and science while chess and drama pepper the afternoon hours. Or join Mathnasium for their Summer Re-Boot Camp. Specifically for 2nd-8th graders, this half-day camp is filled with mathcentric games and activities. LANGUAGE Set your kid on the fast track to becoming bilingual. Collina Italiana is offering Italian Summer in the City Camp which includes Italian-infused music, theater, movies, cartoons and museum outings. Children as young as three can start learning bonjour and merci at the French Institute Alliance Française—culture and language will be taught through stories and workshops. The Language Workshop for Children is a great tool to get your child speaking like a native. Offering summer camps in Spanish, French and Mandarin Chinese, immersion activities include costume days, arts & crafts, baking and birthday celebrations LIFE SKILLS It’s never too soon to get your child prepared for the “real world”. She could be the next Donna Karan thanks to SewHo’s summer camp, which teaches a variety of both hand and machine sewing skills through projects like pillows, hand bags and American Girl doll apparel. The Textile Arts Center of Manhattan is offering two camps this sun-filled season—one concentrated on weaving and another on the surface design of textiles, which includes printing and dyeing. Worth every penny, the non-profit organization World of Money offers a three-week Youth Financial Literacy Training Institute program for campers ages 9-18 and teaches necessary financial skills such as budgeting, investing and money management. DANCE Culminating in a Friday family performance, the Joffrey Ballet School’s Summer Dance Camp lets its youngest
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dancers recreate the greatest stage stories of all time with basic movement concepts and DIY costumes. The Explore Dance program at The School at Steps caters to those who love the entire spectrum of movement—from hip hop to tap—and lets them mix and match the styles they like into an ideal schedule. For dancers ages 6-12 years old, Peridance Capezio Center is offering an August Dance Camp combining jazz, ballet and salsa, as well as elements of dance history and choreography. And for those who already have at least a year of classical ballet training under their belt, the New York Theatre Ballet offers its Summer Dance Camp complete with field trips to break up the intensive training. Prospective campers must be between the ages of 7-10 years and must audition in order to attend. PERFORMANCE Applause NYC’s week-long Musical Theater Intensives give your kids the chance to learn stage techniques, song placement and costume design in the presence of a Broadway star. If your little one’s interest lies more in the arena of choreography, Vital Theatre’s Junior Performance Camp gives your child a chance to work one-on-one with a professional choreographer and learn all the right moves. A guaranteed good time, the Kids Weeks at The New Victory Theater range from circus tricks to puppetry to playwriting. Performers ages 6-15 get the bonus swank of a major concert hall by attending the Summer Musical Theater Workshop by the Lucy Moses School. And at TADA! Youth Theater, the themed weeks (we’re especially intrigued by Broadway Bieber) culminate in an original camper composition. ART Unique in its location, we think Children’s Museum of the Arts’ Summer Art Colony on Governors Island is an escape all in its own. Kids can explore an NYC treasure while creating a few artistic keepsakes to take home. At HiArt’s Culture Bugs Surreal Summer Camp, creative types are introduced to the world of surrealism and bookmaking. Escape the heat and head to Kids at Art for 1/2-day workshops offering up the best in maskmaking, clay molding and paper mache
technique. And Make Meaning’s Creative Escapes program lets campers go on an artistic staycation, drawing inspiration from global cultures and test tubes. MEDIA Future video game creators will love the options of Summer Media Camp through Museum of the Moving Image where campers get to flex their software muscles learning animation, live action video and more. Or send your wannabe MTV VJ to New York Film Academy’s one-week Music Video Camp, designed for kids with little or no knowledge (but a passion) for the industry. And let’s not forget about summer camp at Take Two Film Academy, which will show your budding director the ins and outs of production, acting and editing. Each student gets to keep an online and DVD copy of their final products to show off to friends and family! COOKING Addicted to The Food Network? With 13 delectable themes, Taste Buds is offering a new Iron Chef Camp this summer where young gourmands will learn how to whip up treats and compete with their fellow campers. If you’re looking to instill a sense of food responsibility in your child, consider Butter Beans Food and Garden Camp so they can explore farmers markets, create their own sweet jam and write a cookbook utilizing a farmto-table philosophy. Home Cooking New York’s summer camp in Chelsea is a stellar introduction to kitchen basics as well as to cuisines from all around the globe. NATURE Wonder about wildlife? Kids ages 8-12 can get friendly with hyenas and lions at the Bronx Zoo’s Animal Kingdom Camp where they will observe creatures up close and learn how to best protect an animal’s habitat. Taking full advantage of Prospect Park, the Park Explorers’ Camp Explorers program is ideal for the elementary school set. Be prepared to get a little dirty as this camp takes a hands-on approach to Mother Nature—think sprinklers, hill-rolling and a host of field trips. And regardless of where you live, an awesome camp adventure awaits with NYC Parks Experience Summer Camp. With locations in every www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:27 AM
Pre-Professional Ballet Program and Special Boy’s Classes Ages 7-18
Mother & Child Classes Ages 2-3
Pre-Ballet, Tap, Modern and Drama Ages 3-6
Adult Open Classes All Levels Ballet, Tap, Zumba, Jazz, Pilates and Yoga
Summer ClaSSeS and our full-day SummerdanCe program begin June 25th.
Ballet aCademy eaSt
JOB 9-304 6.925 X 4.7 NY FAMILY
1651 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10128 212-410-9140 info@baenyc.com www.baenyc.com
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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3/23/12 4:00 PM
apple seeds
THE VENUES Make Meaning makemeaning.com Mathnasium mathnasium.com Mohawk Day Camp campmohawk.com Mount Tom Day Camp mounttomdaycamp.com Museum of the Moving Image movingimage.us Neil Klatskin Day Camp klatskindaycamp.com
New York Film Academy nyfa.edu New York Theatre Ballet nytb.org New York YMCA Camp newyorkymcacamp.org North Shore Day Camp northshoredaycamp.com NYC Department of Parks & Recreation nycgovparks.org NYC Elite nycelite.com
Oasis Day Camp oasischildren.com On Deck NY ondeckny.com Park Explorers parkexplorers.com Peridance Capezio Center peridance.com Pierce Country Day Camp piercecamps.com Poppyseed Pre-Nursery poppyseedprenursery.com SciTech Kids sci-techkids.com
Jodi’s Gym
SewHo sewinginsoho.com SPORTIME Randall’s Island sportimeny.com Spring Lake Day Camp springlakedaycamp.com Super Soccer Stars supersoccerstars.com TADA! Youth Theate tadatheater.com Take Two Film Academy taketwofilmacademy.com Taste Buds tastebudscook.com
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Textile Arts Center textileartscenter.com The Art Farm in The City theartfarms.org The Baseball Center NYC thebaseballcenter.com The Diller-Quaile School of Music diller-quaile.org The Language Workshop For Children languageworkshopforchildren.com The Mandell School mandellschool.org
The Nature Place Day Camp thenatureplace.com The New Victory Theater newvictory.org The School at Steps stepsnyc.com Vital Theatre Company vitaltheatre.org Woodmont Day Camp woodmontdaycamp.com World of Money worldofmoney.org www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:27 AM
WEEK LONG
CAMPS AGES 6-8 AND 9-14
CREATE A MINI-MUSICAL IN JUST 5 DAYS! NEW CAMP EVERY WEEK
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WHO SAID SCIENTISTS DON’T HAVE FUN? OUR KIDS HAVE A BLAST AT
SCITECH KIDS SCIENCE CAMP
more info? free open house may 5th
Camp starts and ends at The New York Junior League and travels throughout the City. SciTech Kids field trips include Central Park, Hall of Science, Liberty Science Center, Science Barge and so much more.
Weekly Sessions!
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Door - Door Transportation for Manhattan Residents
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Jun 11 TO
July 27
(ages 4–13) 9 AM TO 3 PM • SciTech Kids immerse children, ages 5-13 in the wondrous world of science and technology. From launching Alka-seltzer powered rockets, finding your center of gravity by walking a tightrope to learning the physics behind roller coasters, SciTech Kids spark children’s innate curiosity about science through captivating, hands-on activities which unlock their imagination.
BUDDING SCIENTISTS ENJOY ACTIVITIES INCLUDING:
17 Camps SUMMER 2012 Baseball Tennis Basketball Little Stars
Summer 2012
New York Junior League 130 E. 80th Street New York, NY 10028 For Registration, Call Today 212-804-7055 or www.sci-techkids.com
• Composting • Bird watching • Exploring Ecosystems • Robotics • Model Boat Sailing • Fishing • Cool science experiments • Golfing • DIY projects • Field trips • Sports, Music Arts, & Crafts AND MORE
3/23/12 4:01 PM
Asphalt Green
l irtua V A d Attenamp Fair ’s C amily
kF w Yor , p, Ne amp.com o h s htc stop o g t i r e d e n e Ao ite, th rce devot mp webs ou ct ca new e res perfe n i l e te a n h t a o r d is an gene ts fin o n t e t r i pa —day . Use help amps child c a f r i o e list nding so, for th made e atte Al k . i l m e o ’s cust t hom eared ay. It a w t a h p e rig fo g or sle amp fair eat in ver-soor gr al c f e u g t e r s n i i v ok 012 r tho ’re lo our 2 ing fo t r u a if you o p n e k r c p e s h mp o rd ays, c mmer Ca towa d p Su cam e To m. close Guid e ps.co t a m a Ultim kfamilyc or newy
Mohawk Day Camp
World of Money borough, this uber-affordable camp provides structured hiking, swimming and sports. MUSIC Stationed in Chelsea, the Kids at Work summer camp offers up an awesome blend of age- appropriate music and artistic activities for your groovy kiddos to engage in. Perfect for preschoolers, The Diller-Quaile School of Music is offering an Early Childhood Preschool Music and Art Program this June. Take
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The New Victory Theater in summertime music, engage in creative play and catch special concerts all before heading home. If you have more of a rocker on your hands, Day Jams lets rhythmic children learn and perfect their skills on guitar, bass, drums vocals and keyboard under the tutelage of a music pro. SCIENCE Inquisitive young minds will love the American Museum of Natural History’s Fossils and DNA Camp where they can
explore the evolutionary timeline. If your elementary school-aged child is more into constructing and electronics, the range of camp choices at Launch Math give him or her the chance to build rockets and robots or design video games. And budding scientists can use the city as their laboratory with the SciTech Kids Summer Camp. In Central Park, campers build solar ovens, learn about gravity thanks to the thrills of Victorian Gardens and make a few insect friends. www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 10:21 AM
z Ama
ing
fe rs, Li e m Sum
NTR
AL PA R
K
CE
lo n g F r
Get up to $100 off when you attend an info session!
iends
CENTRAL PARK & DOWNTOWN ✔
Located in Central Park on the UWS and Downtown on the LES!
✔
Beautiful athletic facilities and fields, ample indoor space, nature trails, Olympic-sized pool & more!
✔
Activities include athletics, fine & performing arts, nature exploration and swim instruction!
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Traditional 9am-5pm Day Camp for children ages 4-11!
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Teen Travel program for young adults ages 12-15!
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Early-Start Jr. Camper Program specially designed for 4 year olds!
✔
Hot lunch, transportation, early drop-off & late pick-up services available!
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Low camper to adult ratios with college-age staff or older!
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Flexible enrollment for 2-8 weeks!
This camp is licensed by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and is inspected twice yearly. The inspection reports are filed at the Bureau of Food Safety and Community Sanitation. If you have questions, please contact Oasis at (718)596-4900.
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Visit us for online registration & more:
WWW.OAsisChiLDREN.COm
Upcoming info session Dates Central Park 4/4 & 5/9 • Downtown 4/14 & 5/15 Call us at 800-317-1392 to RsVP!
3/23/12 4:01 PM
H O M E A N D AWAY
ON THE MARKET
AT
LIVING ITS GREENEST A Round-Up Of Residential Buildings That Offer Special Amenities For Eco-Minded Families BY ELIZABETH RAYMOND
1 4
2 3 1. THE CITIZEN | CHELSEA This spacious and architecturally stunning building on West 23rd Street meets all LEED energy efficiency qualifications, making it one of the greenest residential buildings in Manhattan. The triple-layered windows let natural light in and keep noise pollution out. Walls are specially formatted for soundproofing and have an extra layer of drywall for quiet serenity. The building boasts low-flow toilets for water efficiency and multiple secure bike storage spots. Should you need public transportation, The Citizen is located within blocks of major subway lines. The neighborhood is lively and buzzing with young families— providing playmates for your little ones and the perfect culture boost. Agent: Shelley O’Keefe, The Corcoran Group, 212-839-0124
2. EMERALD GREEN | MIDTOWN WEST Centrally located at 320 West 38th Street, Emerald Green offers eco-minded living with style, functionality and spectacular views from all angles. This pair of 24-story towers, encompassing a total of 568 apartments, is Glenwood’s very first LEED-certified rental building. Living up to its name, Emerald Green has been designed according to ecological guidelines with features like sustainable bamboo wood flooring, VOC-free interior finishes and water-efficient plumbing. Other green features include a parking garage complete with electric car charging stations. With families in mind, Emerald Green also has a hand-painted children’s playroom and a screening room with theater-style seating. The neighborhood offers a wide variety of shopping, food and fun. Plus, the neighby boasts plenty of parks and schools. Agent: Glenwood, 212-695-3838
3. THE HELENA | MIDTOWN WEST With its Gold status, The Helena on West 57th Street is the first voluntary LEED-certified residential building in the city. The building’s green features include recycled materials that produce less waste output, a blackwater system and extensive solar paneling. While at least 50% of The Helena’s purchased energy is wind-generated, it also offers glass walls to maximize sunlight and reduce electrical needs. Additionally, the spacious apartments sport amazing views and tons of room for the little ones to run and grow. The Helena comes with valet and cleaning services, a fitness room and a children’s playroom. Plus, the building is pet-friendly—so Fido can make himself right at home. Agent: James Manning, Durst Fetner Residential, 212-262-6500
4. NEW YORK BY GEHRY | FINANCIAL DISTRICT This much-admired building (towering at 76 stories!) is located at Eight Spruce Street and touts a ton of amazing amenities such as a fitness center, 50-foot swimming pool and indoor secure bike storage. Eco-minded touches include the installation of Energy Star appliances and use of lowemitting paints, coatings and sealants as well as regionally manufactured and recycled materials. The New York by Gehry has truly unique views and the neighborhood is familyfriendly and hip to boot. To top it off, the building is pet-friendly and also boasts a Tweens’ Den, Children’s Playroom and Screening Room with Gehrydesigned amphitheatre seating. Agent: Citi-Habitats Marketing Group, 212-877-2220
FOR MORE TIPS ON REAL ESTATE AND DESIGN FOR FAMILIES, SIGN UP FOR OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER AT NEWYORKFAMILY.COM.
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New York Family | April 2012
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h o m e a n d away
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BAlTIMORE
IN UNDER 36 HOURS
Charlie and Vivi make a life-sized bubble at Port Discovery.
Dubbed “Smalltimore” By Locals, New York Families Now Consider Maryland’s Big City A Fun Spot For Weekend Getaways BY JeNNiFer LehNer
ning a few hours behind schedule—a consistent theme in my family’s life—we opted to spend the rest of our post-lunch afternoon at the Port Discovery Children’s Museum. Housed in a high-ceilinged, 80,000-square-foot former fish market, Port Discovery boasts three floors of exhibits, many designed by Walt Disney Company Imagineers. It wouldn’t have been my first choice of attractions, if only because I would have preferred something more uniquely Baltimorean, like the Baltimore Museum of Industry. Port Discovery, however, was a wonderful place to wile away an entire afternoon with my three children, who range in age from two to seven years old. We spent nearly three hours there and the kids were fully engaged. Not to mention, virtually whine-free the entire time. Jack, my two-and-a-half-year-old, was mesmerized by the exhibit inspired by Scholastic Entertainment’s Clifford the Big Red Dog on PBS Kids. He could have spent the entire day loading in American history at oversized foam bones onto a conveyor belt Independence (p.s. the that spilled its contents into a life-sized blue Liberty Bell is right across dog bowl for the massive mutt. My other two the street). And the Please kids—Charlie, seven, and Vivi, five—preferred Touch Museum is a handsclimbing up, crawling in, jumping on and on funland for all. sliding down KidWorks, a three-story, up-only “urban treehouse” with entrances and exits on Washington D.C. all levels. But all three of my mini mes were Touch a real Lunar rock at inextricably drawn to the Wonders Of Water the National Air & Space Museum before picnicking (WOW!), complete with window squeegees, beneath the blooming water chimes and life-sized bubble hoops. They cherry blossoms at the eschewed the waterproof Land’s End slickers Jefferson Memorial. and candy-hued Crocs in favor of getting Admission is totally free completely soaked, a fact which the available to see the pandas at the full-body dryers did little to mitigate. Needless National Zoo, too. to say, Saturday came to a sopping end. On Sunday, we started off at Miss Shirley’s, —Kat Harrison
My family’s recent trip to Baltimore was an abbreviated one. One of those get-up-and-drive-on-Saturday-morning-and-comeback-on-Sunday-afternoon kinds of adventures—so we had a lot to pack into just 36 hours. First stop: Little Italy—a neighborhood chockablock with restaurants along its narrow, row house-lined streets—for lunch. We took a table at Amicci’s, a casual eatery serving up classic Italian dishes and offering a $4.95 children’s menu (quite the steal!). Their signature dish is the pane rotundo, a bread bowl brimming with creamy shrimp scampi. For dessert, we ducked across the street to Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry Shop and stocked up on their infamous cannoli and an assortment of butter cookies. Content and full (much like that caloric bread bowl) and run-
Other Great Cities (In 36 Words) Boston, Massachusetts Don’t be shy—touch the sharks and rays at the New England Aquarium while baseball fans take a tour of Fenway Park. End the day with a relaxing Swan Boat ride through the Boston Public Garden. Mystic, Connecticut A trip seaside is never complete without the Mystic Seaport’s maritime. Like caramel? Sample the Sticky Fractured Finger flavor at the Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream shop before “boarding” the
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new Titanic exhibit at the Mystic Aquarium. Newport, Rhode Island Pack sturdy shoes for Fort Adams’ tunnels, a free family adventure. Then fly a kite in Brenton Point State Park before adoring the abodes of the rich and the famous thanks to Amazing Grace Harbor Tours. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Walk through a giant heart at The Franklin Institute before soaking
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www.newyorkfamily.com
3/26/12 8:23 AM
Baltimore Hot Spots wHat to do national aquarium, Baltimore Pier 3/501 Pratt Street, 410-576-3800, aqua.org port discovery children’s museum Tip: Harbor Park Garage, attached to the museum, offers discounted parking on weekends. 35 Market Place, 410727-8120, portdiscovery.com wHere to eat amicci’s of little italy 231 South High Street, 410-528-1096, amiccis.com miss Shirley’s 750 East Pratt Street, 410-528-5373, missshirleys.com vaccaro’s italian pastry Shop 222 Albemarle Street, 410-685-4905, vaccarospastry.com wHere to Stay intercontinental Harbor court Baltimore Tip: Standard doubles typically run between $275-$305/ night, but we nabbed a room on Expedia for $125. 550 Light Street, Reservations: 800-424-6835, harborcourt.com
a Southern-inspired restaurant best known for its decadent breakfast dishes like cinnamon Danish pancakes drizzled with cream cheese icing and coconut cream-stuffed French toast. Although absent of a separate children’s menu, the restaurant’s vibe was decidedly kid-friendly and the huge portions likened to sharing. Afterwards, we headed to the National Aquarium, a true must-see for anyone visiting Baltimore. I’d be remiss if I didn’t highlight Animal Planet Australia: Wild Extremes, a 65,400-square-foot immersion exhibit filled with over 150 plants and 1,800 animals indigenous to Australia, like shield shrimp, barramundi and laughing kookaburra. My troupe climbed to the glass-encased tropical rainforest at the very top of the building, then wound our way down through the rest of the aquarium. Boasting a smart design, it is built in such a way that it feels as if you are descending deeper and deeper into the ocean and swimming with the sharks, rays, sea turtles and schools of fish rather than just peering at them from the other side of a tank. Luckily, while Sunday showed a similar aquatic theme, we didn’t end up drenched this time around. When the weather perks up, we hope to return to Baltimore again. Perhaps we’ll spend our time hopping from neighborhood to neighborhood via water taxi, take in an Orioles Game at Camden Yards, and sit outside and eat Maryland blue crabs. All in record time once more. For more Spring Break travel ideaS, viSit newyorkFamily.com. www.newyorkfamily.com
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NE
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FRENCH • SPANISH ITALIAN • CHINESE Ages
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Full Immersion • Native Teachers
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www.LanguageWorkshopForChildren.com April 2012 | New York Family
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H O M E A N D AWAY
QUALIT Y TIME
CELEBRATE EARTH DAY THE RIGHT WAY WITH GREEN EATS, CRAFTS & TOYS EDITED BY WHITNEY CASSER
AVOCADO PESTO PASTA Recipe courtesy of Chloe Coscarelli, author of Chloe’s Kitchen: 125 Easy, Delicious Recipes for Making the Food You Love the Vegan Way Put a healthful twist on a traditional Italian favorite. Adding avocados from your local farmer’s market to pesto creates a rich and creamy texture without using cheese. Kids often tell me this is the best pasta they’ve ever eaten. INGREDIENTS 1 pound linguine 1 bunch fresh basil, reserve some leaves for garnish 1/2 cup pine nuts 2 avocados, pitted and peeled 2 tablespoons lemon juice 3 cloves garlic 1/2 cup olive oil Sea salt Freshly ground black pepper 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes or sliced sun-dried tomatoes (optional) DIRECTIONS 1. Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside. 2. Make the pesto by combining basil, pine nuts, avocados, lemon juice, garlic and oil in a food processor. Process until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. 3. Toss pasta with pesto. Top pasta with cherry or sun-dried tomatoes. Divide pasta among 4-6 serving bowls and garnish with a basil leaf.
FOR LOCAL FARMERS’W MARKETS NEAR YOU, CHECK OUT GROWNYC.ORG.
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www.newyorkfamily.com
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McMaid
For all your cleaning needs 212-371-5555 www.mcmaidnyc.com gReeN toyS FoR totS Plan toys Assorted vegetable Set For the 18 months and up group, little ones can work up a healthy appetite segmenting a wooden tomato, mushroom, shallot, bell pepper and cucumber. $20.00, plantoys.com
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hAbA Chris Croak Push toy This all-natural beech wood frogger will wiggle his eyes and poke out his tongue as kiddos scoot him across the floor. $38.99, haba.de green toystM build-A-bouquet Budding florists can arrange a garden of lilies, daisies and petunias. Made with recycled materials and soy ink. $27.99, in stores June 2012, greentoys.com
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StyliSh Seed PotS Wave Hill, one of our favorite public gardens in the city, has a wonderful cultural center where families can enjoy arts & crafts, inquiry-based learning and the beauty of the changing seasons. Ilse Murdock, who leads the Family Art Projects, shares an easy craft idea for fams looking to add a little green to their homes this month. MAteRiAlS Ceramic terra cotta pot Elmer’s Glue Found objects: ceramic tiles, small stones, sea glass, shells, beads, buttons, yarn and ribbon
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Looking For Family Fun Close to Home this Summer? Come Join us at the
Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club Surrounded on 3 sides by the Long Island Sound Something for everyone in the Family • Right Around the Corner • Private Beach • Private Cabanas • Two Swimming Pools • Yacht Club and Docks • Indoor/Outdoor Waterfront Dining • Children’s Day Camp • 9 Har-Tru Tennis Courts with Pro
diReCtioNS 1. Look at patterns and ceramic designs from various cultures for inspiration. 2. Sketch out your pattern idea onto paper first with markers or crayons, and then transfer the design to your pot. 3. Using glue and lots of fun found materials, fill in your design and voilà! You’ve created a special pot for a favorite plant. For more information and to visit the garden, check out wavehill.org. FoR A gReAt liSt oF eARth dAy ACtivitieS tAkiNg PlACe loCAlly iN CeNtRAl PARk ANd beyoNd, See ouR FAMily CAleNdAR At NewyoRkFAMily.CoM/eveNtS. www.newyorkfamily.com
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Contact us today at 914-698-1130 info@mamaroneckbeachandyacht.com www.mamaroneckbeachandyacht.com April 2012 | New York Family
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THE LAST WORD
BEHIND CLOSED
DOORS
KEEP OUT
One Mom Learns That The Best Way To Get Past Her Teenage Daughter’s Shut Bedroom Door Is To Remember Her Own BY MARIA RILEY This wasn’t the first time my 14-year-old daughter Jordan and I fought about closed doors and, similarly, disrespect. In fact, we’d done it so much that my “the door is coming down” speech had grown stale and expected—practically inaudible to astute teen ears. Each time she tried to close the door mid-lecture, my anger swelled. Night after night, she ignored my husband, Bill, and my calls for dinner, requests to put the dishes away or feed the dog. It was as if she were no longer a part of our family. Where did we go wrong? As Bill and I took turns yelling, I noticed for the first time how Jordan looked at me—a stare of disbelief that said: you don’t get me and I don’t get you. I didn’t understand. The three of us had always shared such a wonderful and unique family dynamic. Jordan was our only child and we were—not to be cliché—the quintessential three musketeers. So why did Jordan hate us now? Bill and I decided that a metaphorical time-out was much needed, so we allowed Jordan to stay with a friend that evening so that we could have some time to plot a new strategy. We tossed around thoughts behind Jordan’s sudden urge to shut herself off from us, asking the usual questions about drugs, problems at school and possible romantic issues. That’s when I began thinking back to the ‘80s, when I too was 14. I visualized my bedroom with the powder blue comforter set and the Peaches Records crate perched next to my stereo filled with 45s, from KISS to Prince. I couldn’t picture my mom spending more than a minute within the walls of my room. Sure, arguments over curfew and mall money escalated at the threshold of my room or into the hallway, but rarely did they spill over inside my sanctuary. Behind closed doors, I didn’t plot to distance myself from my family, but rather contemplated ways in which I could connect with the person I was meant to be. I danced. I sang. I talked on my Trimline telephone with friends. I picked out outfits and accessories—leg warmers, hair glitter and Jordache jeans. I judged
my looks. I styled my hair, painted my nails and wrote boys’ names on my Nikes. I dreamt about the future. Over the following weeks, I bit my tongue every time Jordan’s door slammed shut and remained closed for hours. But I knew she needed that time alone. As hard as it was for me to let go of the control, I did. Because that’s what parents do. We raise our children and take the utmost of care with them, so that they can take care of themselves one day. From the other side of the door, I pictured her acting just like I did in the ‘80s, but with New Millennium flair. Chatting with friends on Facebook, blogging on Tumblr, watching Gossip Girl, listening to Maroon 5 and Adele on her iPhone while styling her hair, painting her nails and dreaming about her own future—I got it. Jordan turned 15 last winter. She spends more time than ever behind her bedroom door, but we don’t fight about it anymore. Slowly I’ve learned to let go in order to hold on. We only have a short time left living together in the same house. Before I know it she’ll be on her own in college, visiting us on the occasional weekend and living her own life on her own terms. For now, the three musketeers still watch movies as a family, cuddle on rainy days with a House Hunters International marathon and chat about the past week over Sunday brunch. We’ve grown to know each other as individuals, not just as parent and child.
Because that’s what parents do. We raise our children and take the utmost of care with them, so that they can take care of themselves one day.
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And every now and then I make it to the other side of the door, but only when she invites me in. Maria Riley is a social media consultant and writer who lives with her husband, teenage daughter and their 5 lb. Chihuahua on Roosevelt Island. She captures all-things New York on her blog Life of Riley NYC (lifeofrileynyc.com). www.newyorkfamily.com
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