A Saratoga TODAY Publication
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Back to School 2016
SaratogaMama.com
Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 3
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Owner/Publisher Chad Beatty
Hello I
t’s with slight reluctance and relief that I say goodbye to the summer of 2016. I wouldn’t say this summer has been the easiest but our family of four made the absolute best of every situation we were thrown - and there were a few doozies in there! I will be missing the days of endless summer adventures, lakes, pools, sprinkler parks, fairs and festivals that punctuated our summer. Equally, I will rejoice in the new school year, not having to plan 12-hour stretches of entertainment, and getting my family back on a somewhat normal schedule again. On the first day of school last year after following the school bus to school (stalker mama, right here!) I headed straight to Spa Cascada for a massage to melt away my back to school emotions. I may carry on that tradition this year, and I encourage you to come up with your own ‘first day tradition’.
Fall
If you need a little help preparing for back to school, check out our guide on page 35 which includes everything from getting your crew on a better sleep schedule, to making snack time a breeze, book recommendations for all ages, and tips to transition gracefully into the fall season. #AdoreAlert! We’re featuring some amazing (all local!) products this issue starting on page 10. Our birthday party at The Giggle Lounge was fabulous as you can tell from the photos that Keira Lemonis took, page 31. I hope your family was able to soak up the summer and make memories together. Sending best wishes to the teachers and parents and high-fives to the kiddos!
- Colleen
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General Manager Robin Mitchell Creative Director Alyssa Jackson Advertising Erin Boucher Jim Daley Cindy Durfey Graphic Design Alyssa Jackson Andrew Ranalli Morgan Rook Photography Keira Lemonis Getty Images Published by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper Five Case Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 tel: (518) 581-2480 SaratogaTODAYNewspaper.com SaratogaMama is brought to you by Saratoga TODAY Newspaper, Saratoga Publishing, LLC. Saratoga Publishing shall make every effort to avoid errors and omissions but disclaims any responsibility should they occur. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written consent of the publisher. Copyright © 2016, Saratoga TODAY Newspaper
Our Cover
Thanks to the Ballston Spa Central School District for lending us a bright shiny school bus for our back-to-school cover shoot! Our kids had fun picking out their “first day” outfits and playing pretend for the day but were happy to enjoy a couple more weeks of summer! Photographer Keira Lemonis captured the moments perfectly and we had a really hard time choosing between this shot and the one you can find on page 35 of this issue. (We had to put it in somewhere!)
Editor-in-Chief Colleen Pierre
L-R - Kendall, Angie, Gavin, Griffin & Robby
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Table of
Contents Seek
10 #AdoreAlert 56 Fall Fashion 20 Teaching the Art of Kindness to Our Kids
Find 36 40 42
Look For Less - Back to School 10 Tips For a Graceful Transition Into Fall Back to School Reading List From Northshire
47 50 44
After School Snacks with Jodie Fitz FALL Asleep Better Common Core Math - What Parents Need To Know
Learn
35
56
Play 62 31 66
Family Fun in the Fall Guide Birthday Party at The Giggle Lounge Fall Puzzles & Games
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40
10 31
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Our Contributors... Lauren Agius
Dr. Randy Cale
Lauren Agius graduated from the University of Vermont in 2010 where she studied Anthropology and Sociology. Raised in Saratoga Springs, she and her family owned and operated Brown’s Beach on Saratoga Lake from 1993 until 2004. She has returned to the shores of Saratoga Lake to raise her son Jack who will turn four this October. Since she was a child, Lauren has been an avid writer of poetry, short stories, essays and songs. Lauren can be reached via email at laurenragius@gmail.com
Kristen Corbisero
Dr. Cale is a Clifton Park-based parenting expert, author, speaker and licensed psychologist who offers practical, no-nonsense parenting advice for all ages. His website, terrificparenting.com, features hundreds of articles and dozens of parenting products that will help you achieve your goal of happier children and a peaceful home. Additionally, Dr. Cale also works with couples and provides individual counseling. He writes for many Capital Region publications including The Saratogian, The Record and The Community News. Submit questions to DrRandyCale@gmail.com and follow him on Facebook and Twitter.
Kristen Corbisiero is a Freelance Editor, writer, and project manager. This fall, Kristen's eldest son, Raffaele, will be attending Kindergarten. Reach Kristen at: Kristen.Corbisiero@gmail.com or 518-635-0375; learn more on her LinkedIn page: www.linkedin.com/in/ kcorbisiero.
Jodie Fitz
Ilissa Goman
Jodie Fitz is the creator and personality of the Price Chopper Kids Cooking Club and currently travels in a six-state region cooking with children to encourage taste testing fun through a hands-on cooking experience. She is a wife, mother of three and currently authors several monthly columns. You can always find what she’s up to in her kitchen at jodiefitz.com.
Ilissa Goman is a certified pediatric sleep coach and baby gear guru. She works families who are struggling to get their babies/toddlers/kids to sleep but are totally ready for a change. She gives parents the tools to make easy changes to bring sleep back into the home for everyone and restore the peace that once was. Ilissa lives with her husband and sassy two year old daughter in the Saratoga Springs area.
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Chris Leuzinger
Jan Snedaker
Chris Leuzinger has been an Elementary School Teacher for 11 years. The last three years were spent as an administrator where he was in charge of teacher development, raising standards in the classroom, and curriculum development. He has been an educational consultant for schools in Norway, Spain, and Trinidad and Tobago, and he has taught in both private and public schools all around the world. He is the owner of Nourishing Minds Tutoring Saratoga and has a wonderful wife and a 15 month old son that keeps him very busy. To see how Chris can help your child visit nourishingmindstutoring.com or 518-415-2423.
Jan Snedaker received a communication degree from Ithaca College and after switching gears for a while to become a special education teacher, she is following her passion; returning to her roots as a freelance writer and the creative director at SaratogaMama. Jan resides in Clifton Park with her husband and two adorable children.
Theresa St. John Theresa is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in Saratoga Springs, New York. Even though history was not on her radar while in high school, she has a deep interest in all things historical now. She has been on assignment for several magazines and is published in both print and on-line venues. Last year she traveled to Ireland on assignment, which, she states " was a trip of a lifetime." She is the proud mom to two young men and Nonnie to 6 rescued dogs, 2 Chinchillas and a bird. Life is good, she says.
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#adore
B y C olleen P ier re P hoto s by Keira Lemonis
ALERT
We wanted to show love to some exceptional local designers, artists, and businesses.These 'must-have' items will be your most treasured pieces for the fall. #AdoreAlert
2nd Street Cosmetics
J
ennifer Angley initially created 2nd Street Cosmetics (named after her apartment in Troy) to fill her personal need to find effective and safe skincare for her sensitive skin. Soon after, friends and family became hooked on her formulas and she started to produce products on a larger scale. Jennifer has done extensive research finding the absolutely perfect ingredients and combinations and specializes in herbal and botanical remedies. Her products are made using pure essential oils, creamy butters and ancient clays from around the world which penetrate deep into the skin leaving you with nourished, healthy glowing skin. Inspired by ancient medicinal botanics and Ayurvedic practices, 2nd Street Cosmetics has created each product with care, purpose and intent. Try out the products and you’ll adore them just as much as I do!
SHOP: Buy 2nd Street Cosmetics online at www.2ndstreetcosmetics.com
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Muddy Toes Terrariums
M
uddy Toes creates miniature living landscapes featuring bright green succulents and tropicals sitting atop carefully arranged layers of soil, locally foraged moss and shale from the shores of Lake Champlain. These lovely terrariums are housed in beautiful custom-designed glass, hand blown by local artisans. Muddy Toes Terrariums add beauty and a sense of calm to your home or office. A perfect way to capture and preserve the brilliant greens of spring and summer all year long.
Shop: You can find Muddy Toes terrariums at Healthy Living Market in Saratoga. You can e-mail owner Susan at susan@muddytoesterrariums.com for orders or custom requests.
Find Muddy Toes Terrariums on Facebook and coming this fall, www.muddytoesterrariums.com.
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Bon Bon Brazil NY
B
eautiful and delicious are two words that come to mind when I think of Bon Bon Brazil NY’s signature sweets, Brazilian Brigadeiros. Pronounced [bree - guh - day - rohs], these fudge-like treats are a mixture of milk, sugar, butter and chocolate, slowly cooked and hand-rolled into bite size balls. Bon Bon Brazil NY is the inspiration of Tais MasalaFinale; a resident of Saratoga Springs who was born and raised in Minas Gerais, Brazil. She is thrilled to bring this cultural delicacy to New York’s Capital Region. Customers have the option to select between 24+ delectable sweet flavors. I personal adore Coconut Kiss but with so many delicious options, it’s nearly impossible to choose just one.
Shop: Find Bon Bon
Brazil NY at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market on Saturdays or order online at www.bonbonbrazilny.com
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Pretty Polite Print Boutique
P
retty Polite is based out of Albany and is an online print boutique delivering high quality customizable cards, invitations and announcements to your doorstep. Pretty Polite allows customers to create beautiful custom prints that enhance life’s special events. There is nothing average or boring about Pretty Polite’s cards and you’re sure to find something fabulous in their online boutique. The ordering process is extremely user-friendly and creating your perfect card is fun and easy. We’re huge fans of their birth announcements and can’t think of a more beautiful way to announce the arrival of a sweet baby!
Shop: Customize online at www.prettypolite.com
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Feathered Antler
F
eathered Antler offers nature-inspired fashion and home accessories created by local artist Gretchen Louise Tisch. Gretchen’s one-of-a-kind creations are colorful and bohemian, brimming with character and beauty. An extremely gifted artist, Gretchen hand paints mason jars, hats, shoes and probably any type of garment you can think of. Feathered Antler’s jewelry line includes playful, easy pieces featuring horse charms, arrows, rainbow stones and other pretty elements. Feathered Antler is inspired by change, growth, uniqueness, new perspectives, adventure, exploration, wondering, and wandering. So much to adore!
Shop: Find Feathered Antler locally at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market and the Spa City Farmers’ Market. Shop online at www.featheredantler.com
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Refined Salvage
W
hen I was meeting with Traci, owner of The Giggle Lounge to plan our birthday party photo shoot (see page 31), she had just received a few more pieces from Leslie Allegretto, owner and creator of Refined Salvage. Just as the name suggests, Leslie takes reclaimed wood and creates beautiful hand-painted signs with custom quotes, monograms, symbols, or just about anything you can dream up. Her simple and stylish pieces can be customized to suit your personality and needs. I adore my custom monogrammed tray.
Shop: Contact Leslie at refinedsalvage@gmail.com or www.facebook.com/refinedsalvageNY
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Dawn Dishaw Ceramics
I
was drawn instantly to the symmetry and colors of these ceramic pieces created locally by Dawn Dishaw Ceramics. The idea of taking an everyday ordinary object and turning it into something dynamic is exactly what Dawn Dishaw achieves. With a focus on function and pattern, these wheel thrown and hand drawn pottery pieces will become your new favorite. I especially love how the pieces are so different individually yet compliment one another beautifully. Think about serving up something spectacular in one of Dawn Dishaw’s unique pottery pieces.
Shop: Visit www.DawnDishaw.com or shop online at www.etsy.com/shop/ dawndishawceramics
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Blue Firefly Designs
H
andmade in a small studio in Round Lake, Blue Firefly Designs is a jewelry line inspired by the everyday things that artisan Amy Brader Leach encounters. I came across Blue Firefly Designs while perusing Instagram. A pair of gorgeous silver earrings crossed my news feed and I had to find out more. Amy’s collection features a diverse selection of fine jewelry, architecturally-inspired pieces, fun and funky designs and truly ‘something for everyone’. I adore this “To the moon and back” pendant and know a lot of mama’s will share the same feelings. The Burlington Star Sunburst Pendant is inspired by the Victorian Architecture in the village of Round Lake. This bat necklace is quirky and just plain fun for fall!
Have a we shou n item you thin k ld featu re in the next
#Adore
Alert?!
DROP U S A LIN E! @Sa
colleen
ratogaM
ama.co
m
Shop: You can find Blue Firefly Designs online at www.bluefireflydesign.com or on www.facebook.com/BlueFireflyDesigns
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Teaching the art of
kindness to our children
“
STORY AND PHOTOS BY THERESA ST. JOHN
Kind people are the best kind of people.”
Someone said that, or wrote that, and even though they neglected to sign their name to the quote, their words ring true. Maybe today, more than ever before. It seems like it should be an easy thing to master, this 'being kind to others' thing. I mean, how difficult can it be, to treat others like we'd like to be treated? We only have to read the headlines, though, or listen to the news, to realize the exact opposite is true; that kindness is fleeting,it's left the building. Or, has it? As parents, I believe we instinctively want our children to be kind. We want to watch them help the underdog, lend a hand to someone less fortunate, do the right thing, be a good person. We talk to them about bullies; how we never want them to be a victim of meanness and how they better not ever be a bully themselves. Thankfully, there are many ways we can teach the art of kindness to our youth, ways we can help instill a bigger heart, moving forward, in the direction of our future. Let me talk, for a minute, about the acts of kindness I've recently encountered.
With a flag, a poster and a handshake Last month, I was guardian for a WWII vet taking part in the Leatherstocking Honor Flight to Washington, DC, 46 vets were accompanied to the Capitol, treated to a day of sightseeing and fun. It was a way to say 'thank you' for their service and proved to be a certainly moving experience. The most emotional thing, to all of us, was seeing the young people, lined up at the airport when we arrived at the start of our day. It was so early, only 6a.m., but they were standing with their waving flags, some holding up posters that read words of thanks. Many children were clapping and reaching forward to touch a vet. Some yelled out 'Welcome home!' Others wanted to shake the hand of a WWII or Vietnam soldier. It didn't matter that they didn't know them personally, the kids just wanted to express their gratitude to someone willing to sacrifice their own life for our country's freedom. Let me tell you, there wasn't a dry eye.
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It's all about the Snickle Jar
Mel Ziegler's Flag Exchange
Natalie, Heather and Erica are teachers at the Greenberg Childcare Center at Skidmore, here in Saratoga. They care for 20 students and have taken it upon themselves to teach our youth a number of ways to express and practice the art of kindness.
A group of youngsters walked into the Tang Teaching Museum and were led into a large auditorium, where the moving sight of 50 flags hung from the ceiling, greeted them.
The Snickle Jar is a classroom favorite. Used whenever a child does something nice and another youngster wants to draw attention to it, students and teachers gather around the jar to talk about said act of kindness. It's a simple gesture, putting a pom-pom into the jar, but it boosts morale and encourages more acts of simply being nice to another human being. Once the jar is filled with the colorful 'thankyou's,' the class votes together on a special treat.
They sat together on bleachers and participated in a lesson on America, her states and flags, many old and tattered, displayed in Ziegler's flag exchange.
The classroom has also adopted the Empty stocking at Christmastime, helping less fortunate families have a wonderful holiday, and St. Jude's Trikathon, where the children raised $2,287 last year alone. In this funfilled, community event, donations are pledged, as people try to guess how many times the students will ride their tricycles around the track. Scanning the classroom, I could see that there are all sorts of great projects, worked on in groups, each used to teach children about the environment and how to be kind to wildlife and ocean-dwelling creatures. When I was at Greenberg, the youngsters were learning about plastic bags and how they are sometimes mistaken for Jelly Fish, which can be deadly to other Jelly Fish and Sea Turtles. It was wonderful, to see how each child reacted to the lessons. Kindness CAN be taught, it CAN be instilled in these little ones. They were eager to think of ways they could help the earth and be nice to each other in simple,yet profound ways.
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Upper Hudson Valley. Children can dress up in costumes and 'step into someone else's shoes' for a short time. Doing this allows them opportunities to think about how life might have been for people in earlier years, when things were very different and often harder than they are today. It's an exercise that can groom tolerance, patience and insight into another child's lifestyle or family's predicament.
Other ways we can teach our children to be kind This is a project that took a few years to complete. Mr. Ziegler drove around the country, locating a flag in each state. He would exchange it for a new one, with any owner who was receptive to his idea. I watched the youngsters raise their hands to answer questions and it amazed me, when a little boy said, ' We need to respect the flag. It should never touch the ground. It should never be hung upside down.' He was so young! And so wise!
Double Dutch Albany's Visitor Center fosters many wonderful programs, all intent on educating children, some in the art of kindness. There are programs that take place at the center itself, while others are hosted at nearby Crailo State Historic Site. One of my favorite classes is called 'Double Dutch.' It's a well - received program that uses artifacts and life-size portrayals of both Native American and Dutch people, breathing life into the interesting stories surrounding the
• • • • • •
Offer to walk a dog Offer to mow a neighbor's lawn Pick wildflowers for a stranger Visit a nursing home Donate $ from a lemonade stand Offer a smile to another child
No matter how we choose to teach our children kindness, I have to believe that the lessons will take hold, making their world, our future, a much better place.
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The Power of
Inclusion BY LAUREN AGIUS
A
s fall approaches and another school year draws near, I contemplate all that I wish to happen for my son. At such a young age, each month is exciting as he so quickly grows and changes into an inspiring young man. I catch myself just staring at him in awe wondering if it is normal for a four year old to contain the wisdom he does. I have also been imagining all the events I hope my son Jack does not confront; hardships I pray he somehow slips past. It is no mystery that we will face difficult times, both when we are young and old. Seeing who Jack is now at four years of age, it is apparent that he will stand strong for himself and for others. I am hopeful my son will be, and am confident that I taught him to be, a person that protects and includes those that may need an advocate during difficult times; those amazing individuals whose life would be deeply impacted by another’s humanness to include. In the face of so many unique personalities and confronted by each person’s challenges, I hope he supports those who need it the most. Throughout my life I have been blessed with parents and inspirational people along the way that have made it so that it was second nature for me to act with compassion and to see that what is unique in each of us is the essence of life. I believe the greatest challenge is not so much “having” a physical or learning disability, but to be insightful enough to incorporate that which is seemingly different into our daily lives; to feel no better, no stronger, no more worthy than the person standing next to us. Embracing those distinctive individuals in our lives means we have welcomed in the most exceptional of people and provided the opportunity to have more love and understanding to carry us through our lives. In the spring of 2015 I boldly left an unfulfilling career that although would have been quite lucrative, left me burnt out and often sick from stress. I felt heavy from the knowledge that I was making no difference in anyone’s life by the work I was then doing. My mother had passed away a few months prior and the shortness of life was at the forefront of my mind. I knew not what I would do on my next journey, but it was clear to me that my next steps had to meaningful; I had to be a piece of something great in this world. Leaving my son each day has always torn at my heart, so when I go out to do my work, it better be something incredible. For the next four months I split my time floating on my boat with my incredible son trying to carve a new place in this world without my mom and searching for a new way of life.
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In September of 2015 I found my missing piece. I began working for AIM Services in Saratoga Springs. AIM Services is an agency “dedicated to supporting the "power of potential" in people with disabilities, including those with traumatic brain injuries. Through community and residential programs, advocacy and education, trained dedicated professionals focus on assisting individuals achieve their personal goals while promoting a sense of self-confidence and well-being.” AIM Services, to me, is mastering the art of inclusion. The recreational activities, community outreach, and employment services we offer have given opportunities to individuals to participate in the community just like anyone else. My agency helps to reaffirm the basic fact that we are all just human beings carving our unique paths and obtaining what we need and want in our own distinctive ways.
include children with different abilities, so that they grow up alongside one another as was meant to be. We can make these changes as parents and start lifting each other up.
“If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change. As a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards him. ... We need not wait to see what others do.” -Mahatma Gandhi
Becoming a part of AIM Services and working with individuals with disabilities has brought me closer to being the involved and wholly inclusive person that I have desired to become. I have surrounded myself with like minded coworkers and mentors and have been blown away by the abilities of those individuals that many would dismiss as unable. I truly have, through this experience, become the teacher and leader to my son that he deserves. He will not grow up knowing the sadness of an inexperienced mind who falsely assumes that any one of us is any more important than the other. He will carry in him the power of inclusion. Of upmost importance, my son will see that although we are apart each day of the week, it is because I am doing my part, however small, in supporting people in living a happy life. The burden of leaving my child has become lighter. As a parent I hold an incredible responsibility to demand of my child awareness and compassion. This is learned through example and it is up to me to set it. Jack is constantly reminded that we are no better than anyone else. We all look, feel and function differently because it is the point of life. Our palettes would be so empty without these perspectives. It is my hope that we see more parents bringing their children to functions and activities that
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THE GREAT ESCAPE
room Planning something unique and fun that your tweens and teens can enjoy together can be a tall order. What about having the group work as a team, communicate and together conquer a challenge?
Your answer: The Great Escape Room!
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The Great Escape Room is a real-life room escape game based on the popular computer and mobile phone escape games. After entering a room with your team, the door is locked behind you. 60 minutes are on the clock! You must work together in a group in order to find clues and solve puzzles that will lead you to your escape. It is part scavenger hunt and part puzzle game. Only about 20% of groups are able to meet the challenge and escape in time! The Great Escape Room is suitable for ages 12 and up. They offer birthday and private parties, and corporate events for groups of all sizes. Our tweens and teens loved their experience at The Great Escape Room. Here’s what Keegan, age 12 had to say:
“It was really cool. I liked solving the puzzles and ripping the room apart to find the clues.”
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Check out the website for more information: www.thegreatescaperoom.com/albany/
The Great Escape Room Albany 2 Kross Keys Drive, Suite #5, Albany (518) 380-6995
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BIRTHDAY
Party!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEIRA LEMONIS
We were eager to experience the area’s newest indoor play and birthday party location The Giggle Lounge. With a convenient Clifton Park Center location (easy parking plus a Marshall’s!), The Giggle Lounge tipped the scales for fun and ambiance.
THE GIGGLE LOUNGE, CLIFTON PARK
A HAPP Y BIRTH D AY AT T H E GIGGL E LOUNG E!
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Relax, Play, Sip, Socialize The Giggle Lounge features a coffee bar and cafe with healthy food options to please even the pickiest eaters. The soft and pretty decor is punctuated with adorable quotes scattered throughout, most created locally by Refined Salvage. Their indoor play area is thoughtfully designed and encourages creative and imaginative play.
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Party Time! You truly can sit back and relax with a birthday party at The Giggle Lounge. Owner and mom of two Traci Montanino has over 15 years of party planning experience. Not a single detail is overlooked and parties at The Giggle Lounge can be completely customized to your liking. Party guests play for the first hour, then head into the private party rooms for food, a craft or activity and then cupcakes. Parties include props and decor to match the theme, balloons, cupcakes, a coffee bar for parents, fruit-infused punch, and lots of food options from bagels and make-your-own parfaits, to pizza or ziti. After some super fun play time, we wrangled our little partygoers into the private party room where they enjoyed bagels with funfetti cream cheese from West End Bagels, fruit salad and yogurt parfaits.
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Lunch was cleaned up by our party attendant who then led the kids through a painting flower pot project. After the craft, it was cupcake time! Dolce and Biscotti in Clifton Park provided the amazing sweet treats. Our kids (reluctantly) departed The Giggle Lounge full of yummy food and birthday fun. Thankfully each party guest received a pass to come back for more fun! The Giggle Lounge is recommended for crawlers up to about age 8. Our kids were on the older end of that range and are asking to go back. Call The Giggle Lounge for more information on hosting your next party!
The Giggle Lounge 22 Clifton Country Rd, Clifton Park Celebrations@TheGiggleLounge.com 518.383.3386
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Fall guide intro
e d i u G l o o h c S Back to SaratogaMama.com
Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 35
back to school
Less
Dress for
$28
The Childre n
's Place
$70
Pott er y
Barn
Kids
So C ute!
$85om
.c Zappos
$30 Target
$30
$46
Target
Tommy Girl
Total: $201
Total: $88
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$33
J.Crew
$11
Old Navy
$28
$10
Under Armour
H&M
$17
Amazon.co
m
$35
Tea Collect io
n
Style without bank breaking the
$40
$23
Payless
Converse
Total: $136 SaratogaMama.com
Total: $61 Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 37
$28
$15
Crazy 8
Macy's
$25
$55
Crazy 8
Gap
$78
J. Crew
$30
Justice
$77
Nordstrom
Total: $238
$35 H&M
se Love the 3 overalls <
Total: $105
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$18 H&M
$56 Boden
$150 m
$65
.com
Amazon
.co
Amazon
$20 H&M
Comf ortab & coo le l
$35 Vans
$17
$48
Old Navy
Levi's
Total: $289 SaratogaMama.com
Total: $120 Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 39
10 Tips to Transition
Gracefully into the Fall Season By Kristen Corbisiero
A
s summer's warmer weather and long days start to draw to a close, the start of school (or work), cooler temperatures and shorter days mark the end of summer.
Saying goodbye to summer – including the swimming, barbecues, and vacations – may not be easy. The last weeks before fall can be fruitful; it can be a time to hit the reset button and take stock of your life, set new goals, and get organized for the upcoming season. To help you and your family transition more smoothly from the summer season, here are ten ways you can get into the fall groove, including a few activities to give summer its proper send-off!
1. Write About Your 10 Best Summer Memories Expressing gratitude and happiness can help your mind focus on the positive. Spend 20 or 30 minutes writing about each topic. Writing positive memories about summer can evoke a state of mindfulness as you close the chapter on the summer season.
2. Make a Photo Collage Preserving your memories in photos is one of the best ways to induce positive memories. Think of how happy you are when you look back at the pictures spent enjoying the summer season. Surround yourself with fun photographs that will keep you in happy spirits for months to come.
3. Clean, Organize, and Store Your Summer Gear Schedule time to wash, organize and store your summertime gear. This includes summer clothes and outdoor supplies like tents, tablecloths, grilling supplies, pool toys, and other items you've collected over the summer. Box everything, label it, and store it for next year.
4. Find Your New Flow Routines tend to shift with the seasons – and for many families, this means kids beginning a new school year and after-school activities. For others, this may mean a time to focus on work – be it in an office or starting new projects around the house. Going back to school, or starting school for the first time, doesn't have to be a bummer! It can be an exciting new chapter in your life, if you place your intention on setting new goals and having fun. When you start setting up your new routine, think about your responsibilities, health, and wellness as well as your favorite leisure activities. Make a list of what is important to you and your family. Get the whole family involved to ensure everyone is excited for the new fall routine! 40 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
5. Create a New Meal Plan
9. Take Some Down Time
I don't know about you, but over time, I tend to fall back on Bringing balance to your life with down time may help you the 'old standby' recipes, but if you break up your routine, you avoid the feelings of being overwhelmed or unfocused. For some may find yourself excited when it comes time to shop and prep people, this may mean watching TV, running errands, or reading for dinner. Fall means that new social media feeds. For others, down time seasonal fruits and veggies will means just that – no mental work and be in season. Revisit your meal just letting the mind and brain simply be. plan and design one around fresh This can be achieved by taking a bath, seasonal choices, and explore new gazing at a fire, or meditating. SET NEW GOALS, AND recipes for the cooler months. Try and minimize processed foods and seek out fresh foods, which can often be found around the outside perimeter of the market. Aim to get all the colors of the rainbow in your diet each day. Make it fun and involve the whole family when preparing your meals. Cooking together can be a lot of fun!
" "
GET ORGANIZED FOR
THE UPCOMING SEASON.
6. Get Daily Exercise or Movement
Being active is an important component to physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of exercise or movement every day. Cardio gets the circulation moving, strength-building exercises develop strong bones and muscle, and stretching helps loosen and lengthen your muscles. Choose an activity that you enjoy – hiking, yoga, cycling, swimming – and as long as you are having fun, you are more likely to keep it up.
10. Keep Soaking Up the Sun
While the days are getting shorter, the sun is still high in the sky. Get out there and soak up some vitamin D by taking a quick walk during lunch, before dinner, and on the weekends.
Transitioning gracefully from the summer back into fall routines can be fun, if that is your intention. A smooth transition boils down to identifying how you want to spend your time and creating new healthy habits for you and your family over the next six months. Remember to design your routine with balance in mind and you will be ready for a successful transition into the fall season.
7. Get Social Research has proven that individuals who lack social connections or report frequent feelings of loneliness tend to suffer higher rates of infection, depression, and cognitive decline, according to an article published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior. Plan get-togethers with friends or family regularly. It can be anything from a weekend getaway, lunch, dinner, or social gatherings with friends. Take the time to stay connected with others and have fun. Maintaining social connections with friends helps us to laugh more, have engaging conversations, and feel more supported.
8. Find an Activity For Shorter Days Hobbies and activities that keep us mentally stimulated and bring us joy are a great way to pass the time indoors when the temperatures drop and the days get shorter. Taking on creative projects like arts and crafts, and reading may help keep you engaged during the fall and winter seasons when outdoor activities are limited.
SaratogaMama.com
Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 41
ations Recommend
from
e r i h s h t r o N e r o t s k o o B
BACK TO
L O O H SC reading list THROUGH THE TOWN By Craig Shutttlewood, a Follow-the-Trail book.
This ingenious book features a recessed path for little fingers to follow on each double-page spread as it wanders left to right through the town. This tactile experience will help lay the foundation for literacy skills later on.
Baby & Toddler
DINOSAUR VS. SCHOOL By BOB SHEA
Preschool
Shea's obstreperous dino is back in another fun board book that celebrates that special kind of defiance you'll only get in a 3-year old. In the great contest of Dinosaur vs. School, who will win?
Lower Elementar y WHAT DO GROWN-UPS DO ALL DAY? By Virginie Morgand
Young students are now becoming aware that there are lots of things that grown-ups are busy at while kids are busy at school. This picture book catalog of adult activities is sure to intrigue, and to help make connections between what children do at school, and what adults do out in the world.
42 | SaratogaMama | Summer 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Upper Elementar y TOWERS FALLING by Jewell Parker Rhodes Remembrance of 9/11 has become part of the back-to-school tradition, and this novel, set in present-day Brooklyn, is a moving way to put the events of that day into context. Native New-Yorker and fifth-grader Deja' was too young when the towers fell to know what happened, and none of her schools have explained it to her. Her father's chronic illness has landed the family in a homeless shelter, and she enters a new school with a chip on her shoulder and a mystery to solve: why is her father so upset to learn that her teacher is talking about the towers?
Tweens & Teens
WHEN MR. DOG BITES
by Brian Conaghan
Being a teenager and starting the school year is already stressful enough. When you have Tourette's Syndrome, and may start swearing uncontrollably at a moment's notice - especially when trying to impress a girl - it's even worse! Dylan's predicament goes downhill fast when he forms the suspicion that he has only a short time to live, so he needs to take care of that bucket list asap. A wild twist on the usual high school story. Hysterical and poignant but be advised: the book has a lot of swearing. 13+
Adults READING PICTURE BOOKS WITH CHILDREN
by Megan Dowd Lambert
This educator from the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art offers teachers and parents really valuable insights about how to make story time a richer experience for everyone. Highly recommended for anyone who loves to read aloud with a child on the lap.
SaratogaMama.com
Summer 2016 | SaratogaMama | 43
Common Core Math What Parents Need to Know WRITTEN BY CHRIS LEUZINGER | Nourishing Minds Tutoring
Math.
For some people this simple combination of letters conjures up images of trepidation, confusion, and bad experiences. How many times have you heard someone say, or quite possibly even said yourself, “I can’t do math. I was more of an English person in school.” Or worse yet, “I hate math. It just doesn’t make sense to me.” For much of my life I was this person. All someone would have to do was utter the word ‘math’ in my general vicinity and I would be reduced to the fetal position, rocking back and forth on the floor asking for my mom. Seriously. It was that bad for me. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, math is defined as ‘the science of numbers and their
operations, interrelations, combinations, generalizations, and abstractions and of space configurations and their structure, measurement, transformations, and generalizations.’ Huh? Even a supposedly simple definition of math sounds confusing. Thankfully the folks at Merriam-Webster also give us this definition: math is ‘the science of numbers, quantities, and shapes and the relations between them.’ That’s a bit better, isn’t it? Now enter a parent’s worst nemesis. Homework. Believe it or not, I can make it worse. Add the words Common Core in front of the word math. Now you have Common Core Math. Have I hit a nerve yet? Well, I’m going to take it one step further. I’m here to tell you that I fully support the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), and when implemented correctly, they can and are responsible for changing young perceptions about math.
44 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
For the purposes of this article I’m going to ask that you forget everything that you have ever heard in the mass media regarding Common Core. I know, this may be a big task (especially since the internet never lies…), but bear with me. Here it goes, the million-dollar question: as a parent, what exactly do I need to know about the Common Core?
1.
The Common Core State Standards are not curriculum. They are also not standardized tests that schools are teaching to (contrary to the belief of the mass media). CCSS exist as a set of learning standards implemented in order to explain what we want children to learn. CCSS simply lay out the topics to be taught, and the rest is up to the teacher. The curriculum in each school will vary (many families will be familiar with Go Math, or Singapore Math), and it is what teachers actually follow or what they do in the classroom.
2.
The CCSS will enable your child to explain math, not just “do the math.” There is a big emphasis in Common Core in using verbal reasoning. Children can explain how they know what they know, how they solved the problem, and why they chose a certain approach over another. Consider the following example: You go into a store and buy something for $6.47. How much change do you receive if you pay with a $20 bill? A more traditional approach would have you use the standard algorithm where you align the two numbers and subtract the columns vertically.
20.00 - 6.47 Simple, right? Why don’t schools just stick with the basics? While there is nothing wrong with this method, it is nothing more than a memorized approach to solving a problem that doesn’t make the interactions between the numbers clear. Furthermore, how many people who learned this method were just told to put the bigger number on top, the smaller number on the bottom and subtract? Why? Because that’s just what you do. Sound familiar? You simply memorized the process to solve the problem – a series of steps, if you will, but you haven’t even begun to explain why you solve it this way. Now let’s consider the alternative. Using a number line – ‘the Common Core way’… SaratogaMama.com
+ 1c
+ 1c
6.47 6.48
+ 1c
6.49
+ 50c 6.50
+ $3 7.00
+ $10 10.00
20.00
Using the number line gives you the ability to visualize and manipulate the numbers which allows you to track the numbers more easily. Now I know there will still be some naysayers who insist the traditional approach is just simpler. There are less jumps and bumps, and it is just faster. The point of the number line is not to teach the most efficient method of performing calculations, but to understand what or why you have done something. Most people can follow the number line method in their head. It goes something like this:
$10 + $3 = $13.
50¢ + 1¢ + 1¢ + 1¢ = 53¢. $13 + 53¢ = $13.53
Compare that to the standard algorithm and try doing to standard algorithm in your head and completing the process without pencil and paper. Remember to borrow across all of those zeroes, cross out the old numbers, write down your new numbers, now start at the ones and perform all of the calculations. Sure, it works on paper – in your head it is another story if you have no means of showing written methods. That is the point. Common Core simply teaches alternative strategies for approaching problems, rather than the old-fashioned rote memorization.
3.
Your kids’ homework may indeed look a little bit bizarre to you or just downright weird (see above). But you know what? That’s ok and actually kind of cool, because rest assured, the ‘old’ traditional methods that we all learned (and loved) growing up are not being scrapped. Quite the contrary, they are still valued and are being taught; they are simply being supplemented with other approaches that have an emphasis on comprehension and understanding. You do not have to be a math guru. If helping your child complete their homework don’t be afraid to teach ‘your methods’, just stress that there are alternative ways, too. Ask for help. Ask their teacher. Research on the Internet, remember… it doesn’t lie! The most important aspect is to remain positive and try to change the negative connotations towards math. These are the lessons that will help your child learn how to learn and strategies to cope if it is difficult or they get an answer wrong. There is always another approach!
Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 45
4.
The ultimate goal of Common Core State Standards, as it relates to math, is to foster a deeper level of understanding using a variety of techniques. This allows children to approach problems in a variety of ways using multiple strategies. What does this mean? Simple. The standards for mathematical practice can be broken down into 8 aspects:
1) Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them. 2) Reason abstractly and quantitatively.
3) Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others. 4) Model with mathematics.
5) Use appropriate tools strategically. 6) Attend to precision.
7) Look for and make use of structure.
8) Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.
All of the above seems pretty reasonable to me. Why wouldn’t we want these things for our children? As a teacher I can say that high expectations are paramount to academic success, and it seems that the Common Core nails this. The Common Core encourages working collaboratively, focusing on situational problems with an emphasis on communication, and learning life-long skills. Jean Piaget once said, “The principal goal of education is to create individuals who are capable of doing new things, and not simply of repeating what other generations have done.” This statement sums up the Common Core State Standards perfectly. What parent doesn’t want more for their child? Rather than jumping on the bandwagon and crucifying schools, teachers, and Common Core State Standards, why don’t we embrace the changes and change the attitude toward mathematical thinking? And for all of the parents who are still frustrated and not familiar with the Common Core State Standards – know this. The CCSS are just one tool in producing children who are good at learning math. Students who are computing correctly, choosing the best way to do a given computation, students who can explain what they are doing when they solve a problem or use math to analyze a situation, and students who have the flexibility and understanding to find the best approach to the problem.
46 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
After School
By Jodie Fitz
Quick, Easy & Tasty!
It's back-to-school time again and with the addition of a new schedule and new routines come the added task of after school snacks. Here are three quick, easy and tasty bites to make for your hungry crew, with our without their help! Each one is designed to be easy, healthy, delicious and allow for some taste-testing and experimentation.
Follow along with Jodie for more recipe bites at www.jodiefitz.com
Banana Parfa 6 oz. vanilla y ogurt 1 tablespoon p eanut butter 1⁄2 teaspoon ci nnamon
butter t u n Pea ies: allerg
h cipe wit e r s i h t Make wer r sunflo o y o s e th ter. seed but
SaratogaMama.com
it
2 tablespoons granola cereal 1⁄2 banana
Directions : Fold the yogurt , peanut butter and cinnamon Cut the banan together. a into thin slic es . P la ce half the yogurt mixture into a parfait glass. T op the yogurt mix with 1 tablesp ture oon of the gra n ol a ce re al and half the banana slices. Add in the rem a in der of the yog mixture and to urt p with another ta b le sp oon of the granola cereal and the remain in g banana slices. recipe makes This one serving. Tip: The pea nut butter shou ld be room tem when making perature this recipe.
Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 47
Pinwheels 1 FlatOut® Fold-it® ple 1 golden delicious ap 1 tablespoon honey Directions: 400 degrees. Preheat the oven to . to create two rounds lf ha in ® -it ld Fo e Cut th sheet a non-stick baking Place the rounds on k cooking spray. coated with non-stic und. of honey on each ro r ye la ht lig a ad re Sp . d cinnamon together an se ee ch ed dd re Stir the sh . the cheese mixture ith w d un ro ch ea p To
dded
ck cheese, shre ½ cup Monterey Ja on ½ teaspoon cinnam
Top each ple into thin slices. ap e th e ic sl d an h Was te a pinwheel look. ea cr to es ic sl e fiv round with the amon to the top of nn ci of le nk ri sp a Add apples. e y 7 minutes, until th el at im ox pr ap r fo Bake d the e cheese is melted an bread is toasted, th softened. apples are slightly
48 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Reese’s
Fake Shake
2 cups ice 1 ½ cups low-f at milk 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
Dair y Allerg i es?
Swap the milk with either alm ond milk o r rice milk.
SaratogaMama.com
2 teaspoons v anilla extract ½ cup peanut butter 3 tablespoons honey Directions :
Add the ice, m
ilk, cocoa pow
der, t, peanut butter
vanilla extrac
and honey toge
ther in a blende r. Blend and serv e for an aftern oon treat or evenin g dessert.
Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 49
asleep better!
Getting Your Kids on a Healthy Sleep Schedule
N
by Ilissa Goman
ow that the summer days are winding down, it can be hard to get back into that back-to-school sleep groove. You’ll soon have a schedule filled with drop-offs and pick-ups, after school activities, and not to mention all the homework! Here are some easy tips to make the process go much smoother for all ages.
50 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
For Babies
…
While your baby might not be going to school, it is common for babies with older siblings to have to adjust to pick-up and drop-off schedules. Often, these times coincide with a baby’s naptime. If possible, try and preserve your baby’s morning naptime and have this not be a car nap. The morning nap is the most restorative nap of the day, and car sleep doesn’t let the brain get into a deep sleep to restore that energy. Grab a babysitter if you need to do an early drop-off multiple times a week to save that morning nap.
For Preschoolers
…
Your preschooler may now be adjusting to a schedule that doesn’t include the nap they once had. If your 3-year old is going to be missing a nap they would otherwise take, adjust bedtime a little earlier on the missed nap days to compensate. Even an earlier bedtime of 15-30 minutes can make a big difference. By age 4, most kids have dropped napping altogether, but if your child still takes a nap but has a hard time at bedtime, you may want to look at taking away that nap. It may be what is causing the bedtime issue.
SaratogaMama.com
Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 51
For Elementary School
…
This can be such a tricky age. Your child is still requiring about 12 hours of sleep yet there are after school activities and homework that are now creeping into the schedule. My usual advice is to pick one extra-curricular activity and aim for an 8 p.m. ‘in bed ready to sleep’ bedtime. Make sure homework gets done right after school so that it’s not pushing into bedtime.
For Teens
…
Make sure teens are not allowed to be on their electronic devices within an hour before bed. This includes phones! The blue light emitted from these devices inhibits the brain’s production of melatonin and can make it hard for the body to get into a deep, restorative sleep. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, teens need 8-10 hours of sleep at night to remain healthy and to be at their optimal brain functioning for learning.
For Parents
…
You need sleep too! Make sleep a priority. I know that sounds dumb because you’re thinking “I have a to-do list a mile long, and work, and kids, and the housework, and the list never ends”. Guess what? The list is never going to end. The list can wait till tomorrow. Sleep is so important to your health and the health of your family. Being an over-tired parent leads to lots of yelling, falling asleep at work or while driving, health issues like obesity, and so much more. Get those zzz’s in!
Need extra help with your family’s sleep? Visit www.BinxBaby.com for more tips! 52 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
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Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 53
3 SIMPLE STEPS TO
ENDING THE Struggles AND THE Drama Dr. Randy Cale BY
Dr. Cale is a Clifton Park-based parenting expert, author, speaker and licensed psychologist who offers practical, no-nonsense parenting advice for all ages. His website, terrificparenting.com, features hundreds of articles and dozens of parenting products that will help you achieve your goal of happier children and a peaceful home.
W
hile flying home to visit my parents a few weekends ago, security is at a standstill. TSA is surrounding a family. It’s loud. Why? Because a (roughly) 10-year-old boy is lying on the floor, screaming and refusing to go through the screening machine. Mom is yelling. Child is yelling. TSA staff looking befuddled. Of course, this is only one example of how a little thing can become a big struggle for parents. But we all see it, and many of you are dealing with this challenge. Your child turns a small request, a minor inconvenience or a tiny ‘moment’ into big battle, often with major drama. In my parent coaching, I find more and more parents (as well as teachers) dealing with these situations. These battles often evolve into huge drama plays, with tears, screaming and emotional upsets. Parents then try to find ways to avoid these embarrassing or frustrating moments, seeking immediate relief by eventually giving in…rather than seeking a healthy long-term solution. (By the way: If you haven’t handled this before getting to the airport, then your destiny is sealed…so to speak.)
While the tendency is to hope that these struggles will eventually just fade away, this is false hope. The reality is that these problems will predictably get worse, at least for most of us. Why? Because we believe that we need to talk to our children when they start to argue, battle and resist. This is false. This strategy will fail you, with the child or teen who wants to argue, battle and negotiate life to go their way. What’s the answer? Here is my three step solution to ending the daily struggles and the drama that goes with it!
Step 1: STOP ALL WORD STRUGGLES, BATTLES AND NEGOTIATIONS TODAY!
Take a breath, and see how these daily struggles are inevitably a repeat of the same words over and over, kind of like you’re living in the movie “Groundhog Day”. The same drama you try to avoid… just keeps happening. So please: Just stop the word battles. Stop the arguments. Stop the negotiations. Here’s why:
Psychologist Insider Secret: Child only negotiate, argue and battle… WITH parents who negotiate, argue and battle. So, step one: stop it. You may feel stuck, but you can get out. The first step you must take is to stop repeating the same losing battles. You can walk away. You must practice walking away. And…you will likely have to do this frequently…if you have been in the habit of arguing and battling with your child. Remember: you can do it!
Step 2: GET CLEAR ON THE
EXPECTATIONS THAT BUILD HEALTHY HABITS
Most of us do not see life from the perspective of daily habits. Yet, there is an inevitable, unstoppable force that strengthens over time, making us a slave to our habits; unable to fight the consequences of the daily effects of habits. 54 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
Stay LEAN on words. Make this a daily system, with no reminders or prodding. If you do this opens the door to arguments and negotiations. Of course, we have clearly explained how the system works…so we don’t have to do this daily. Allow kids to resist. Allow them to complain and argue… as you walk away. Allow a meltdown…while you are STILL walking away. We wait patiently. We wait for the expectations to be met, before we give them what they want. If it takes hours, we can wait hours. Guess what? We don’t have to win the word battle…we don’t even have to step into the ‘ring’…so to speak. Yet, many of us do not set up daily expectations that support healthy habits. We ‘fly by the seat of our pants’ and hope for the best. Starting today, let’s change that. What healthy habits do you want to promote? What habits, if you build them, will you feel good about 5 or 10 years from now? If you feel uncertain about that, then think about this: What habits do you want to avoid giving to your children? It is unlikely that will feel good about a teen spending more time on video games than homework. You will certainly be frustrated going through a 30-minute wake up routine to get your son out of bed. You will cringe when your daughter spends more time on selfies than on her community project. Be willing to see where the unhealthy habits are taking your family, and turn the other direction. Find those positive habits that will serve everyone. Then, establish the daily expectations that will build those habits. Write them down, and put them up for everyone to see.
But we will win the important battle, when we realize we hold the keys to the kingdom. We control all the goodies they care about. So patience is key.
In just a few (rather painful weeks), you will find your children learn to accept this. You are stepping into your parenting power, as you become more grounded in your actions… and step away from your words. It’s the key to ending those exhausting struggles!
Step 3: USE LEVERAGE TO COMPEL COOPERATION WITH THE EXPECTATIONS
This is where the magic begins. Rather than using words to try to get your kids on board with the daily expectations, use the leverage you have available. Remember: words simply do not work, so we must abandon that. Instead, turn to using leverage. Many of you may wonder what I mean by the term ‘leverage.’
Establish Daily Leverage: “Work, then play …every day.”
Consistent, daily leverage is essential to making your life at home easy (especially if you have a challenging or oppositional child). From a parenting perspective, you have much more leverage than you may realize. Everything your children wants is within your control. And, even better, you have the ability to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to those wants (i.e., the goodies). However, rather than trying to make this up as we go along, it is important to set up the consistent, daily expectations along with the daily leverage. We must be willing to maintain a day-to-day structure where we require the expectations to be met BEFORE the goodies are granted. SaratogaMama.com
Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 55
Fall Fashion
R
By Jan Snedaker
ecently, a good friend gave me a dress and said, ‘As soon as I saw this dress I thought of you’. I smiled and thanked her but felt completely confused why she felt the dress was a representation of me. Since becoming a mom a little over eight years ago, I probably wear a dress about three times a year. I am pretty much a yoga pants and t-shirt type of girl, and was very surprised someone would see me as anything more than that. It is funny how our perception of ourselves can be so different from how other people see us. I never would have picked that dress out for myself, but felt excited someone else had. Stepping out of my comfort zone and into an outfit I could not wear with my Uggs, made me realize there was a whole closet full of potential out there if I was willing to see myself as more than just a mom.
Soon after that, I bought a bathing suit that was not black and a dress that did not look like an over sized t-shirt. I no longer want to buy a bunch of clothes that look the same but rather spend my money on clothes that stand out from one another, and that stand out on me. It took one little dress and a good friend to break me out of a style rut that I was in for way too long. This fall I will still wear my beloved yoga pants and Uggs but I will also wear clothes that are truly ‘me’. Whether it be a silk blouse paired with jeans or a sleek black dress and heels it will surly be something people will look at and say, ‘that is so your style’!
What is your style?
Find your inspiration in our fall fashion picks.
56 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
2
1
3
4
1. Lace Panel Tunic Dress Miss Scarlett Boutique, Saratoga Springs
2. Leather Espadrilles H&M
3. Sunglasses Maui Jim
5
4. Leather Pants H&M
5. Dior Addict Lip Glow Sephora SaratogaMama.com
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7 6
8
9
10
It took one little dress and a good friend to break t me out of a style ru that I was in for
way too long.
58 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
t
ose l c e l o h w a s a there w re if e h t t u o l a i t n e t full of po lf e s y m e e s o t g in l I was wil
om. m a t s ju n a h t as more
6. Performance Stretch Jean Leggings Express
7. Harbour Print Jersey Top Caroline and Main, Saratoga Springs
8. Leather Sneakers H&M
9. Blush Floral Dress
12
Lucia, Saratoga Springs
10. Two-Tier Lace Dress Banana Republic
11. Avery Fit Lightweight Pant Banana Republic
12. Tomboy Style Sneaker Athleta
11
13. Rosehip BioRegenerate Oil 14. Light Metallic Puffer Jacket
13
GAP
15. Sofft Oakes Shoes The Walking Company
14 15
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60 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
HEY CAPITAL REGION!...
Did you recently find out you have a bun in the oven? No, not the glorious doughy kind, the tiny human kind that has you running to the bathroom every 5 seconds and longing to nap on any flat surface you see? Do you know how you're going to have this baby? I mean we all know HOW you have a baby. Kind of. Have you seen all the options that are out there locally in the baby realm? We bet you haven't really. Not really really. But it's ok because we got you. No, WE REALLY GOT YOU.
The Petite Retreat is not one of those crazy expo shows where you collect a bunch of free junk and people stand behind tables like zombies selling a pitch. This is an event we plan and organize all year long with the best in the birth and baby world both locally AND nationally. And we are going to hook you up with some REAL quality workshops with REAL information and REALLY good baby products. So put down your What To Expect When You're Expecting Book, get off of Baby Center's website, and step into a REAL realm of local experts who know how to birth babies, how to support new parents, and how to make you feel so incredibly empowered and prepared that your Aunt Sally's parenting critiques will roll off you like water off a duck's back. • Workshops on infant sleep, baby wearing, safety, fitness, easy meal prep and more! • Stroller Terrain Track full of the latest and greatest strollers to test out! • Meet and learn from Experts in all the parenting related fields!
Base camp tickets are just $25 and admit 2 people.
Want it ALL? Check out our awesome VIP upgrade tickets. We have both baby and toddler upgrade options available. www.TPRToga.com
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Fall 2016 | SaratogaMama | 61
Family Fun in the fall
Pick-your-own pumpkins and apples, get lost in a corn maze, take a hay ride, and fill up on some delicious cider donuts. There’s plenty of fun to be had this fall!
Saratoga Springs Sunnyside Gardens
Corn maze, hay rides, pumpkin patch, train ride, cider donuts and more. 345A Church Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 518-584-1034 www.sunnysidegardensllc.com
20-30 Minutes From Saratoga Bowman Orchards
Pick your own and picked apples, raspberries, blackberries, pumpkins (seasonally) cider, donuts and farm animals, too! 141 Sugar Hill Road, Rexford NY, 12148. 518-371-2042, www.bowmanorchards.com
Devoe’s Rainbow Orchards
10-20 Minutes from Saratoga
Apple picking, baked goods, and gift baskets. Rainbow Delights, their ice cream shop, is open April-October. 1569 Rt. 9, Clifton Park, NY 12065 518-371-8397 www.devoesorchards.com
Double M Hayrides & Corn Maze
Daytime hayride, corn maze, petting zoo and children’s activities Haunted hayride at night! 678 Route 67, Ballston Spa, NY 12020 518-884-9122, www.mmhauntedhayrides.com
Lakeside Farms
Apples, Indian corn, gourds, pumpkins, apple cider, cider donuts, and a restaurant serving breakfast and lunch. 336 Schauber Rd. Ballston Lake NY, 12019 518-399-8359. www.lakesidefarmscidermill.com
Ellms Family Farm
Pumpkin patch, hay rides, corn maze and more! 468 Charlton Road Ballston Spa, NY 12020 518-884-8168 www.ellmsfarms.com
Fo' Castle Farm
Apple picking at their orchard and fall treats including cider donuts, pies, breads at the country store. 166 Kingsley Road, Burnt Hills, NY 12027 (518) 399-8322, www.focastlefarm.com
Lindsey’s Idyllwood Orchard
Saratoga Apple
Apples, cider, fresh baked goods, and produce. Also an assortment of local, natural, and healthy food and gifts. Apple cider donuts are made daily all year round. 1174 Route 29, Schuylerville NY 12871, 518-695-3131
Schuyler Farms
Corn maze, hay rides, pumpkin patch, other fall fun! 1124 Route 29, Schuylerville, NY 12871 518-695-5308, www.schuylerfarms.com
Apple picking, cider, cider donuts, gourmet muffins. 267 Sugar Hill Rd Rexford, NY 12148, 518-371-5785 www.lindseyscountrystore.com
Malta Ridge Orchard & Gardens
Apples, other fruits, vegetables, farm fresh meats, produce, canned goods. 107 Van Aernem rd., Malta, NY 12020
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30-40 Minutes from Saratoga Liberty Ridge Farm
One of the area’s largest corn mazes, barnyard adventure, pumpkin picking, trolley ride, cow train and more family fun. 29 Bevis Road, Schaghticoke, NY 12154, 518-664-1515 www.libertyridgefarmny.com
Eagle Mills
Watch cider being pressed in an antique cider press, take a train ride, participate in a dino dig, and explore the family fun park. Visit the bakery for pies, cider donuts and other treats. 383 County Hwy 138 (Off Rt. 29), Broadalbin, NY 12025 518-883-8700, www.eaglemillsfun.com
Riverview Orchard
Apples, bakery, donuts, hayrides are free on weekends. 660 Riverview Road, Rexford, NY 12148-1433, 518-371-2174
Engelke Farm
ENGELKE FARM
SaratogaMama.com
Pumpkin picking, corn maze, haunted hayride, zip line, and animals. Be sure to call ahead for zip line reservations, they fill up quickly! 463 Garfield Rd, Troy, NY 12180 518-478-4939 www.engelkefarm.com
50-60 Minutes from Saratoga Hicks Orchard
Apple picking, wagon rides, hard cider tasting room, cider donuts, and apple wood fired pizza. Plus many family fun activities through the fall! 18 Hicks Road, Granville, NY 518-642-1788, www.hicksorchard.com
Indian Ladder Farms
Pick-your-own apples, berries and other produce. Visit the farm store and gift shop for a wide variety of decorative and unique items. 342 Altamont Road, Altamont NY, 12009, 518-765-2956 www.indianladderfarms.com
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31 KIDS! READY FOR SCHOOL PARTY AT NORTHSHIRE Join us for a morning party at 11 a.m. at Northshire Bookstore, located at 424 Broadway in Saratoga Springs. Authors Deirdre Sullivan and Linda Marshall will share their comforting picture books about the start of school, and local teachers will be on hand to share a craft project and talk about a typical school day. We'll also offer a special discount on school supplies and other back to school items. Recommended for incoming preschoolers and kindergarteners.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31 – MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 197TH ANNUAL SCHAGHTICOKE FAIR The Schaghticoke Fair, the 3rd oldest fair in New York State, returns this year bringing rides, exhibits, shows, entertainment and more!
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 7TH ANNUAL RUN/WALK FOR THE HORSES The certified 5k course, which begins at the Orenda Pavilion at Saratoga State Park, will wind its way throughout the beautiful park. Registration opens at 7am. Post time will be at 8:30 a.m. There will be refreshments, and prizes in all race/walk divisions. All proceeds benefit six local non-profits that rescue and provide second careers or homes for ex-racehorses. Cost: $25 for pre-race registration, race day registration $30. For more information visit www.trfinc.org/ event/5k, or call (518) 226-0028.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 – SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 FINAL STRETCH MUSIC FESTIVAL Downtown Saratoga, 7 – 11 p.m. Labor Day weekend brings the 2016 Saratoga Springs racing meet to a close. But don't worry, there's plenty of fun planned for Final Stretch Weekend to keep your spirits up!
Fall!
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 FREE 8-WEEK PRESCHOOL PROGRAM Join the Schuylerville’s Public Library for a free eight-week program beginning September 7. We will meet every Wednesday and Friday at 11:30 a.m. This program is based on skills that kindergarten teachers feel are most important for children to be working toward as they enter kindergarten. The program is run by a preschool teacher and is full of fun learning opportunities for your child. Stop into the Schuylerville Public Library to register, call the library at (518) 695-6641 or register online at www. schuylervillelibrary.sals.edu.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 MALTA BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION 5K The 7th Annual Malta Business and Professional Association 5K will be held Saturday, Sept. 10, 2016 starting at 8:30 a.m. This family-friendly 5k runs through the Saratoga Technology & Energy Park and the Luther Forest Technology Campus. Proceeds are donated to the Saratoga County Rural Preservation Company in support of their work with veterans in our community, to the Malta Ambulance Corps, the Round Lake Fire Department, and the Malta Ridge Fire Department. Register online at www.malta5k. com/registration.html.
2016 INSANE INFLATABLE 5K RUN, 8:30 a.m. Ellms Family Farm, 468 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa. Get ready to experience the most fun, wild and insane obstacle run in the world- Insane Inflatable 5K. Here's your chance to be a kid at heart, but insane by choice! For more information, visit www.insaneinflatable5K.com.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 SARATOGA SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Various Venues in Saratoga Springs, 9 a.m. – 11 p.m. An all-day rain/shine event! Local, national and international shorts and features, panels with industry professionals, innovative industry technology, family-friendly exhibitors and more!
24TH ANNUAL CLIFTON PARK FARM FEST It is a day of fun for the whole family, including farm tours, apple picking, hayrides, demos, animals, horse rides, country food, festive music, and more! Drive yourself to the many working farms in Clifton Park - this is a drive-it-yourself fall tour where you and your kids will love visiting the different local farms and orchards, getting an inside look at the animals and farm equipment. For more information, call (518) 371-6667.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 – SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 ADIRONDACK BALLOON FESTIVAL 2016 Hundreds of hot air balloons take to the sky at the 44th Annual Adirondack Balloon Festival. The balloon festival features the launch of dozens of balloons, all brightly colored, and many in fun and special shapes. Visitors can walk inside half-inflated balloons, watch riders prepare for the flight, and see the exceptional sight of air balloons taking off from the ground nearby, one after another, and floating into the sky.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 SOUTHERN ADIRONDACK FIBER FESTIVAL AND ROMNEY SHEEP SHOW The 8th Annual Southern Adirondack Fiber Festival is sure to delight experienced and beginner fiber enthusiasts alike! Located at the historic Washington County Fairgrounds in Greenwich, NY, the Southern Adirondack Fiber Festival continues to grow each year! Over 125 acres and an award winning farm museum will be open during the festival. Admission Price is just $5 for adults, kids 13 and under are free! For more information visit www. adirondackballoonfest.org.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 28TH ANNUAL GOOLD ORCHARD APPLE FESTIVAL This celebration of the arts, crafts and agriculture of the Capital Region offers fresh food, pick-yourown apples and pumpkins, live entertainment, craft vendors, horse drawn wagon rides, face painting, live music and more! Goold Orchard is located at 1297 Brookview Station Road, Castleton-on-Hudson, NY. Admission is $9 for adults, kids under 12 are free.
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SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9 THE WAY WE WERE" CAR SHOW Front Street, Downtown Ballston Spa, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The Ballston Spa Business and Professional Association and the Saratoga Automobile Museum present the 14th annual "The Way We Were" Car Show in Ballston Spa. Front Street will be blocked off from Milton Avenue past the Old Iron Springs to accommodate car exhibits and vendors. Besides the hundreds of show cars, enjoy live music, food and family activities. The event is free to spectators. Rain date is Sunday, October 16.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 16TH ANNUAL GREAT PUMPKIN CHALLENGE TO BENEFIT SARATOGA BRIDGES Saratoga Spa State Park, 9 a.m. A great community event with 2,000 walkers, riders and runners participating. This event takes place rain or shine and features a 5K (walk, ride – register with Ainsley’s Angels to ride or run) and 10K (run) and a Kid’s Fun Run (12 & under). Cost: 5K & 10K Fees: $25 (by 10/1); $28 (by 10/12) $30 (after 10/12) Kids Fun Run Fees (12 & under): $5. For more information, visit www.saratogabridges.org.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 2016 SARATOGA DBA FALL FESTIVAL Bring the whole family to celebrate the fall season in beautiful downtown Saratoga Springs with fun and games at the 15th Annual Saratoga Downtown Business Association Fall Festival from 11 am to 4 pm! Young and old alike will find themselves rediscovering all there is to love about the fall season at this fun-filled FREE event. Plus, with all of the fun activities planned, this is one event you and your family will not want to miss!
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30TH THE PETITE RETREAT The Petite Retreat is back for its third year and will take place on Sunday, October 30th at the National Museum of Dance from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Join us for the region’s premier luxury baby experience! This exclusive, educational day will be filled with interactive booths, speakers, demo classes, a stroller terrain track, a child drop-off area, deluxe attendee totes and more! Get your tickets early before they sell out! www.thepetiteretreatexperience.com/tickets/
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SCHOOL WORD SCR AMBLE YMG OBOK EGRDA HULNC LRUER LPAPE EDSK KSACN
Answers: Gym, Book, Grade, Lunch, Ruler, Apple, Desk, Snack 66 | SaratogaMama | Fall 2016 saratogaTODAYnewspaper.com
FALL CROSSWORD ACROSS
3. You see your friends and teachers here in the fall. 7. Used to gather the leaves that fall on the ground. 8. Fall starts in this month.
DOWN
1. A red fruit you might pick in the fall. 2. A sport that starts in the fall. 3. Scares crows from the fields. 4. You dress up on this day in October. 5. These change color in the fall and fall to the ground. 6. You make Jack-o-Lanterns out of these.
WORD SEARCH APPLES HALLOWEEN CIDER HARVEST FALL PUMPKIN SaratogaMama.com
F P T R O Q H F H F N K U E Y A V A H F N H C M R X L R A W F D K V P L R L D S V N E H O K L T R E A S Q W H P I S O L T V E A N F Z N Q P Q E R E D I C B Y P N K O S U S N Q Y A T B G Z L X F Q C H
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