1013BSP

OCT. 2013

FREE

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families Since 1996

BOSTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF PLAY RED SOX PITCHER RYAN DEMPSTER SPEAKS OUT ABOUT A PEDIATRIC GENETIC DISORDER

DOWN SYNDROME RESEARCH BREAKTHROUGH Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2012

FALL FASHION GOES URBAN

A 30 nn t uah l 2 OCTOBER2013 3

Cornerstone Academy Educating all learners in grades K-6

An elementary preparatory school that celebrates the individual.

Open House Sunday, November 3rd • 2-4 p.m.

Cornerstone’s education is like organic food, not processed or watered down.

Nourish your mind and your body with us!

• Offering Transitional Kindergarten and full day Kindergarten through Grade 6th curriculum.

• Highly qualified faculty trained to adapt curriculum to your child’s ability.

• Small classes, individual attention.

• Intellectually enriching environment.

• Solid academic foundation complemented by art, Spanish, music and physical fitness.

• State of the art technology utilized in all classrooms.

5 Oak Avenue • Northboro, MA 01532 • 508-351-9976 www.cornerstoneacademy.org BAYSTATEPARENT 2 3

Fall in to New England’s choice for style and value.

Over 50,000 items everyday.

Celebrating 15 years of outf itting your family

everythingcutie.com

Johnny Appleseed Plaza, 1021 Central St., Leominster • 978-534-6604 Mon-Sat 9-7pm, Thurs 9-8pm, Sundays 10-6pm

Come spend time with your kids in our exciting family classes— a rich musical environment that encourages your child to explore the joy of music.

Find out what beautiful music you and your family can make together.

MAKE BEAUTIFUL MUSIC TOGETHER. (800) 728-2692

•

MUSICTOGETHER.COM

FOR CLASSES IN EASTERN/CENTRAL MA: WWW.MUSICTOGETHER.COM/BSP 4 OCTOBER2013 5

Blossom Station

Daily Discoveries, Endless Possibilities

Please join us.

222 Main Street, Acton, MA 01720

978-266-2779

www.BlossomStation.com BAYSTATEPARENT 4 5

O

ages 15 Months - grade 8 | s. natick, ma | 508.655.7333

Join us for an Open House or Walk in Wednesday!

For Parents with Children Ages 15 Months - Age 5, meet us at the Children’s House: 49 Eliot Street, S. Natick •

For Parents with Children Entering Grades K - 8, meet us at the East Campus: 6 Auburn Street, S. Natick •

OPEN HOUSE

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, October 6th | 1pm-3pm

WALK IN WEDNESDAYS

An opportunity to tour our campus while school is in session, come see us live at 9:30am!

October 16th • October 30th November 13th • December 11th

Sunday, November 3rd | 1pm-3pm

WALK IN WEDNESDAYS

An opportunity to tour our campus while school is in session, come see us live at 9:00am!

October 23rd • November 6th December 4th

REGISTER TODAY - www.theriverbendschool.org/joinus 6 OCTOBER2013 7

Olivia Allen, 7 ½, Needham Captured by Stephanie Piscitelli, bellinipics.com

15

URBAN FALL FASHION

These siblings show off their fall fashions during a local photo shoot.

table

24

OCTBER 2013 • VOLUME 18 • NUMBER 6

pediatric health 22 NEW UMASS STUDY REVEALS BREAKTHROUGH

8 WELCOME 10 JUNK DRAWERS

IN DOWN SYNDROME RESEARCH

24 22Q DELETION SYNDROME: The Most Common Rare Syndrome You’ve Never Heard Of

29 OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO: October Calendar Of Events

26 GETTING TO THE HEART OF THE MATTER 28 ALTERNATIVES THERAPIES FOR CHILDREN

40 CAPTURED

42 FINALLY FOREVER 43 OCTOBER’S CHILD 43 CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

sneak peek e st BPARENTING

in advertising and design

in North America

EXCELLENCE New England Newspaper and Press Association

NOVEMBER

voted

f iINrstGENERAL

placed

DECEMBER

PUBLICATION

Local Media Association

SPREADING THE WORD

Red Sox Pitcher Ryan Dempster started an organization to help others learn about a rare genetic disorder.

the of the home

in every issue

newburyport chamber of commerce

michael ivins/boston red sox

bellinipics.com

our special guest

WINTER DESTINATIONS & THE HOLIDAYS THE HOLIDAY ISSUE & THE GIFT OF TECHNOLOGY

29

OCTOBER CALENDAR LISTINGS

Don’t miss out on more than 100 family friendly kids events from around the state.

something special 12

FINDING STRENGTH THROUGH FAITH AND FAMILY

15 URBAN FALL FASHION: With These Stylin’ Sibs 18 39

BOSTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: The Power Of Play Comes Along Way MAKE YOUR OWN: Halloween Treat Totes

advertising directories 44 bspADvantage 46 PARTY PLANNER 47 ADVERTISING INDEX

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families Since 1996

The Children’s Workshop Quality Child Care & Early Education Since 1990 Now Enrolling! Infants . Toddlers . PreSchool . PreK Kindergarten . Before & After School Programs Visit Us at www.ChildrensWorkshop.com Westborough (508)366-2148

.

Waltham .

Norwood .

(781)466-8640 (781)769-2363

North Attleboro (508)643-3458 BAYSTATEPARENT 6 7

Welcome When my son Derek was 8 weeks old, he got a fever. Until that time, he nor my older son, who was 3 ½ at the time, had ever been sick. We had just gotten back from visiting my grandmother who had just turned 100 years old.

My first thought was to give Derek some infant Tylenol. I looked at the label, and it said to call a doctor. I thought it meant to call them for a dosage amount, so I dialed the phone nonchalantly.

To my surprise, the on-call doctor came on the phone and simply said, “You have to take him to the emergency room.” I had no idea that you couldn’t give a newborn medicine, but I quickly scooped up my son in the infant car seat and headed to the local hospital.

In my haste, I went to the wrong location of the hospital (I had never taken my children to a hospital before). I went to where I gave birth, not where I should have taken him for pediatric care. Even though we were at the wrong hospital, the doctors said they would do a spinal tap to determine what was wrong. Watching

him cry uncontrollably during the procedure was almost unbearable.

After that, the doctor said we should go to the other hospital location. They would have gotten us an ambulance, but then what would I do with my car? And I hadn’t been away from my son even for a moment since he was born. I packed him up again, and we headed to the other hospital location.

As soon as we got there, the doctors were waiting to treat him.

I was keeping my husband in the loop about his care by phone because he was home with my older son at the time. Again, they did a spinal tap to determine what was wrong, and they said they thought it was viral meningitis, but the test would take some time to come back. They decided to start treating him for it despite not having the test results, and we were admitted.

Because of the headaches that go along with viral meningitis, Derek cried and cried from the pain. Up until then, he had been a calm baby only crying if he was hungry.

My husband and I took shifts – he did the overnight shift, and I stayed at the hospital during the day. The doctors were amazing as they cared for him. The staff and nurses were so supportive, usually giving us a break to go outside for a few moments together during the day and night.

We shared a room with another mother whose baby had more serious medical problems. She seemed to take it in stride, but I felt like I could break down at any moment. I’m the kind of mom who handles things during a crisis, but breaks down afterwards.

Derek was given a clean bill of health after about a week in the hospital and had no side effects.

Things began to get back to normal at our house, but for the first time it hit home that children can get sick. On Derek’s first birthday, we decided to give back to other children – we asked people to donate money in lieu of gifts so we could buy toys for the pediatric wing of the hospital as well as toys for the children’s room at our library. It was such a small gesture on our family’s part, but the staff at the hospital was so thankful.

This month Red Sox Pitcher Ryan Dempster shares his family’s story about discovering his daughter has a rare genetic disorder. He has since created an organization that helps spread the word throughout the country and the world in the hopes of finding a cure.

When one local family heard about a new breakthrough in Down syndrome research, one parent was hopeful while the other raised some concerns.

There are so many emotions that can surround our children’s health and wellness, and it can be hard to put our trust in doctors and experts. The best way to get through a medical emergency or problem is to have the support of friends and family to help you through it. And if you know of a family going through a difficult time, don’t be afraid to reach out and offer help. Your concerns and thoughtfulness will mean a great deal to them.

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families

baystateparent publisher KIRK DAVIS

interim associate publisher KATHY REAL 508-868-9293 sales@baystateparent.com

creative director PAULA MONETTE ETHIER 508-865-7070 ext. 221 baystateparent@holdenlandmark.com

editor JENNIFER LUCARELLI 508-865-7070 ext. 201 editor@baystateparent.com

graphic designer STEPHANIE MALLARD 508-865-7070 design@baystateparent.com

director of sales REGINA STILLINGS • 508-865-7070 ext. 210 regina@baystateparent.com

senior account executive EMILY LAVOIE • 774-364-4178 emily@baystateparent.com account executive NELLIE LIMA • 774-364-5073 nellie@baystateparent.com account executive AMY LeBLANC • 978-660-3227 amy@baystateparent.com contributing writers MATT BRUUN MANDY MULLIEZ CHRISTINE M. QUIRK LAURA RICHARDS MICHAELA SPAMPINATO

baystateparent

MEET THE COVER MODEL

22 West Street, Millbury, MA 01527

AGE 7 1/2, NEEDHAM

www.baystateparent.com campguide.baystateparent.com

508-865-7070

placed

1. What is your favorite thing to play with your sister? I love to play anything outside with her, especially if we get to run around!

book in the whole world! Right now, though, I’m reading the Books of Elsewhere series.

2. What’s do you like most about school? Recess! We get to build forts in the woods, and make things with sticks and slate. And I LOVE D.E.A.R (drop everything and read).

4. What was the photo shoot like?

What did you like best? It was cool.

I got to take pictures with Stephanie and my sister! Actually, I really liked Stephanie - she’s very nice. I also liked getting my hair done because the iron was really warm.

3. What is your favorite book? Don’t ask me that: I love almost every single 8 OCTOBER2013 9

copy editor BRYAN ETHIER photographers BELINNIPICS.COM MANDY MULLIEZ presidents KIRK and LAURIE DAVIS

Jennifer

Olivia Allen

f iINrstGENERAL

EXCELLENCE in advertising and design

New England Newspaper and Press Association

voted

e st BPARENTING PUBLICATION

in North America

Local Media Association

baystateparent Inc. is published monthly with a main office at 22 West Street, Worcester, MA 01527 508-865-7070 It is distributed free of charge throughout Massachusetts. www.baystateparent.com • info@baystateparent.com

bellinipics.com

1

3

Meet Regina Stillings Director of Sales for baystateparent

“Regina brings passion, deep market knowledge, creativity, advertising and digital savvy, and perhaps most helpful, experience as a ‘parent,’” says Kirk Davis, owner of baystateparent. “I have known Regina for many years, as have many of our colleagues on staff. Suffice it to say, I think she will be an incredible asset – a wonderful ambassador for all of our publications.”

Take 8 with Regina:

1

What did you do before coming to baystateparent? I have been in media sales and marketing my entire career. Most recently, I was a senior account manager at Worcester Business Journal.

What are three words that would describe you? Creative, funny (at least I think I am!), sparkly (I love all things that glitter and shine!). My son’s answer: energetic, embarrassing, cool (he really said that!).

3

What is the best part of your day?

Giving my son a hug, whether he likes it or not! Even at 16, it doesn’t get old...

5

4

2

Some people don’t know that: I was the lead singer in an all-male classic rock band.

What parenting advice would you give to other working moms? Being a working mom is one of the hardest jobs in the world. Be proud of that!

We are the role models for so many children! And never feel guilty about leaving dishes in the sink. Choose spending time with your kids over any housework! They’ll remember that more than how clean their house was growing up.

What is one thing you always tell your son?

Treat everyone equally. Be kind, respectful and compassionate. What goes around comes around...

6

7

What excites you the most about working at baystateparent? I’m excited to lead the sales team to levels they never thought were possible and create campaigns that work for our clients. I have so many ideas that my head is about to burst!

8 What is your hope for the future of baystateparent? That bsp will continue to win national awards, double in size and continue to be the BEST parenting publication in North America!

To contact Regina Stillings, email her at regina@baystateparent.com or call 508-865-7070 ext 210.

BAYSTATEPARENT 8 9

JUNK DRAWERS A LITTLE OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT

NO TRICKS, JUST TREATS Japanese term for crocheted stuffed animals. These are very cute with human features and happy expressions. They are sure to make you smile!

On Monday, Oct. 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Grinning Piglet will have a booth at Southborough’s annual Heritage Day Celebration. Please stop by to say hello and see the crocheted children’s items.

APPLE PIE

Use Cortland apples if you like your pieces to hold their shape. If you prefer more of an applesauce filling, use Macintosh.

Crust 2 cups flour 1 tsp. salt ¾ cup solid vegetable 5 tbsp. ice water shortening (more or less) Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Using a fork, stir the flour and salt together. Cut in the shortening with a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture resembles very course cornmeal. Stir in the ice water with a fork, a tablespoon at a time, until the pastry holds together. Press into a ball. Chill for 30 minutes. Divide the dough in half and roll out on a lightly floured surface, making the bottom crust slightly thicker than the top. Fit the bottom pastry loosely into a pie plate and trim the edges almost even with the rim. Set the top crust aside.

Filling 7 cups apples, peeled, cored and sliced ¼ tsp. nutmeg (about 2 lbs.)

1 tbsp. butter or margarine ½ to 1 cup sugar Mix the apples, sugar and spices. Spoon into the bottom pie shell. Cut the butter into small pieces and dot the mixture. Cover the pie with the top crust, sealing carefully. Cut steam vents. Bake at 425 degrees for about 50 minutes or until the crust is brown and the apples are soft. *Recipe courtesy of wilsonfarm.com

MAKE ‘EM LAUGH

Jack Robinson, a 12 year old in treatment for bone cancer, likes jokes and likes to laugh. He decided that jokes could help cheer up other kids with cancer too, so he collected jokes and riddles from them, their families and their doctors and nurses to create this book. There are chapters on Animal Antics, Sports Snickers, Food Funnies, Ghoulish Grins and more so plenty of laughs for anyone who likes to laugh.

All of the profits from the sale of this book will be donated to pediatric cancer research to help kids with cancer. When you purchase this book, you will make someone laugh ... and you can help make a difference for a child with cancer by contributing to the important research going on now to help fight pediatric cancer. To purchase the book, go to www.makeemlaugh.org.

Q&A

The Grinning Piglet is owned by Tina Dobberpuhl, of Southborough. It’s the perfect source for a unique item for your child or to give as a gift. Tina offers beautiful handmade crochet baby items including toys, afghans and security blankets. Custom orders are welcome to provide just what you’re looking for.

She also features various amigurumi toys, which is the

For more information, visit the Grinning Piglet’s Etsy shop at etsy.com/shop/grinningpiglet or on Facebook at facebook.com/TheGrinningPiglet.

As a special offer for baystateparent readers, use coupon code BAYSTATEPARENT to receive 15% off your first Etsy order.

What local organizations help children and families deal with a cancer diagnosis?

• Lucy’s Love Bus, Amesbury: The organization provides funds to pay for integrative therapies, the therapy that will best suit the cancer child. It could be swimming, acupuncture, gymnastics, hippo therapy (horseback riding), massage, etc. www. lucyslovebus.org.

• Why Me & Sherry’s House, Worcester: Why Me & Sherry’s house helps families of cancer kids get together and find support from each other. They provide housing for families that live far from the hospital and are flying to Massachusetts to have access to our exceptional medical care. www.whyme.org.

• Andrew’s Helpful Hands, Hudson: Andrew’s Helpful Hands Organization helps families going through a bone marrow transplant. They allow parents to focus on their child during recovery. If a donor is needed, they help organize a bone marrow drive. If finances are needed, they help with fundraisers, benefits, raffles, etc. andrewshelpfulhands.com.

• Kids Kickin’ Cancer, Berkley: The Kids Kickin’ Cancer Foundation was established to financially assist families in the New England Area with children diagnosed with cancer while in active treatment. www.kidskickincancer.net.

MEALS FOR MOMS

Have you ever wanted to send someone a meal for an occasion, but lack of time or distance has gotten in the way? Healthy Habits Kitchen in Wellesley has developed meal care packages that can be shipped all over New England under the direction of owner, Sue Schochet. Ideal for new moms, each package includes three family-friendly large meal kits for up to 12 servings, which contain all of the ingredients need to cook a healthy, restaurant quality meal (think Pumpkin Turkey Chili, Cranberry Salsa Chicken and Cocoa-Coffee Rubbed Pork with Root Beer Cream Sauce) in little as 10 minutes, as well as a fun little gift and card.

They are the perfect gift for anyone who is busy and can’t get out to grocery shop or spend hours meal planning and chopping. For more information, visit healthyhabitskitchen.com.

Junkdrawers strives to highlight the products, people and places of Massachusetts. Have an idea? Email editor@baystateparent.com.

10 OCTOBER2013 11

SM

U-PiCk ApPleS & PuMpKiNs NOW OPEN Great for all ages. Call for details.

Halloween FUN for Everyone!

FRIGHT FREE FUN at Davis Farmland FRIGHT NIGHTS at Davis Mega Maze

Opens in Oct – Call for details

DavisMegaMaze.com A Murder Mystery Treasure Hunt In The World’s Most Complex Adventure Maze.

Great for all ages.

DavisFarmland.com Children’s Discovery Farm

Relax & rediscover your family.

Pet & feed animals, splash, laugh & play.

(Adults must be accompanied by a child age 12 and under)

QR Calendar of Events:

978-422-MOOO(6666) DavisFarmland.com

145 Redstone Hill Rd. Sterling MA 01564 ©2013 Davis Farmland & Davis Mega Maze

Sign-up now for • Birthday Parties • Groups • Sleepovers

FREE! $3 Souvenir Cup of Animal Feed!

Not valid with other discounts or packages. Expires 10/31/13 BSP10

●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●

●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●

●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●

●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●● DFL BSP10 4.875X12 9-15-13.indd 1

BAYSTATEPARENT 10 11 9/15/13 9:45 PM

FINDING STRENGTH THROUGH

Faith and Family story and photos by mandy mulliez

Amy Newman sat outside the Boston Children's Museum one afternoon this past summer, waves of nausea and fatigue rolling over her. She had been fine when she left the house that morning with her husband and six children, ages 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14. The plan was to enjoy some badly needed family time in the city. She thought she had timed it right: it had been nearly two weeks since her last chemo treatment, and she usually felt fine by this point. But that day, perhaps because of the heat or the walk from the train, it hit her suddenly - and hard. She would have done anything to go home and rest.

“I spent the better part of the day outside the museum while my family

was inside,” she says. “I wanted to leave, but not alone and didn't want them to have to go.” Amy's family had made many sacrifices since her breast cancer diagnosis five months earlier, and she was determined that a trip to the museum was not going to be another casualty of her illness.

The Newman family lives in Whitman where Amy, 43, home schools her children. Her husband Jim, a paramedic, works long, unpredictable hours. After a routine mammogram last December, Amy was told they had found early-stage breast cancer and would need to come in for further testing.

“Our plate was already very full before the news. This felt like more

than we could possibly handle,” Amy says. Her sister had been diagnosed with the same type of breast cancer in 2010 - Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) - which is the presence of noninvasive abnormal cells inside a milk duct in the breast.

Amy and Jim Newman, of Whitman, are photographed here with their children, from left to right, Gabriel, 8, Patrick, 12, Maximilian, 6, Abigail, 10, John Paul, 4, and Andrew, 14.

12 OCTOBER2013 13

"When I got the call that they needed to do further imaging and a needle biopsy, they initially downplayed the chance of this being anything serious,” she says. “I never expected my situation to turn out the way it did."

After being formally diagnosed with Stage 0 DCIS, Amy went to meet with a breast surgeon at South Shore hospital and they scheduled a lumpectomy. Tissue removed during the lumpectomy showed something more serious - Stage 1 small invasive carcinoma. In addition, the surgeon was unable to get enough millimeters of clean tissue - a rim of healthy tissue beyond the tumor - during the lumpectomy. Instead of repeating the procedure and because they already removed 20 percent of her breast, her doctor recommended a mastectomy with immediate reconstruction.

Amy recalls that every step of the way seemed like it would be no big deal, but it always turned out to be much more serious than expected. “I went from having non-invasive, lowest stage breast cancer to having a double mastectomy and reconstruction,” she says. “I decided to do the other

breast too, although there was no cancer there. I had breast fed six children and after all of this I wanted to at least come out looking good!”

Another factor in her decision, beyond the family history of her sister's breast cancer, was the results of genetic testing she had done. She tested positive for the BRCA 2 gene mutation - something that puts her at increased risk for breast and ovarian cancer. Actress, humanitarian, and fellow mother of six, Angelina Jolie, put this issue into the spotlight earlier this year when she announced she had tested positive for the BRCA 1 gene mutation and was undergoing a preventative double mastectomy, thus greatly reducing her chances of developing breast cancer.

Amy's next step was to meet with a plastic surgeon. The 13-hour surgery, followed by a five-day hospital stay, was done at the end of February. The difficult recovery from that surgery was compounded by an additional blow: her lymph nodes had tested positive for cancer cells as well. Although there was no conclusive evidence that the cancer had spread, Amy’s doctors prescribed chemotherapy and

radiation.

“Overnight, my life turned into a series of doctors’ appointments,” she says. “I am a chiropractor by trade and have always taken a very conservative, holistic approach to health matters and have always been in excellent health.

We were thrown into all of this so fast and it was overwhelming. After my lymph nodes were diagnosed, things got so much more out of control."

Amy spent three months undergoing chemotherapy, followed by several weeks of radiation targeting under her arm where they removed the lymph nodes as well as her chest wall.

Because of her BRAC 2 diagnosis, Amy says she will most likely not only have her ovaries removed but also have a total hysterectomy in the coming months. She will also begin hormone therapy to help prevent the cancer from coming back.

Amy says she has not been traveling alone on this journey. Her husband of 13 years and six children form a close knit family, on which Amy’s illness has taken its toll, and she is emotional reflecting on how it has affected all of them.

"Although Jim is not the one who is

sick, he may have had a harder road in watching me go through this and in picking up the slack,” she says.

“It's difficult to be with someone who doesn't feel good. He has had to balance working and finding time to come to doctors’ appointments with me as well as taking care of the kids when I was in the hospital and sick."

She says they have tried to be as honest as they could with their children.

“Originally it was 'Mom has some cells that weren't working the right way,’” she says. “Then it was 'Part of mom's body has to be removed because it's not working right.' Then it became 'Mom is taking medicine to help her to stay healthy, but medicine kills the healthy cells too, so Mom gets sick and needs to rest.’”

The older children help out with the younger ones and on any given morning, Amy says, some "combination" of them accompany her to radiation. “Our kids are very functional and helpful because of their homeschooling, but they're still kids and it's a lot for everyone,” she says.

A major illness brings about personal change as well, particularly for mothers who are often the ones to keep all the balls in the air.

“I am learning to accept how little control I truly have over things,” she says. “Patience has been a huge struggle. And dealing with not feeling good - I hate that. I am not able to do what I need to do to run my household.

I was pretty hard core before I got sick!

It's been a true challenge. I feel like God is trying to tell me to accept help and accept that things don't have to be my way all the time.”

Fear is ever present, according to Amy, and learning to deal with it has perhaps been one of the biggest lessons of her experience.

“This is a huge faith journey,” she says. “My family is Catholic and our faith has been tested in a new way.

When I am truly depleted emotionally and physically, it is hard not to fall into these moments of extreme fear.

Will the cancer come back? Will I die from it? Will my family be ok? But I know I can't live the rest of my life like that. There is no guarantee for anything. I must turn it over to God and trust that we will get through it.

My doctors tell me that they are doing

everything they can to treat a chronic illness, and we have to live our lives."

Amy's family has found tremendous support in the community as well through friends and church families.

Old and new friends have brought meals, helped with childcare and even contributed with much needed financial support. A hospital social worker connected them with the Ellie Fund, a Massachusetts-based non-profit that helps ease the effects of cancer on patients and families by providing services like transportation, meals, and childcare. Amy's family submitted an application and received three months of grocery and gas gift cards which was a significant help in easing the tremendous financial strain put on their family since her diagnosis. The Ellie Fund connects with breast cancer patients through social workers, patient navigators and oncology professionals at over 50 hospitals and treatment facilities across the state.

Amy is sharing her story in part to urge other women to get regular mammograms and make use of the incredible technology that is available.

“In my case, I never found a lump in my breast,” she says. “It was a purely pathological diagnosis. You just never know - that's what I tell people.

Get your mammogram! It is truly lifesaving."

Now, Amy is working hard to establish a normal rhythm with her family and "reeling everyone back in" as she says. She has begun a new semester of home schooling and is trying to get back to being a mom working on all cylinders. It's a slow, steady recovery taken one day at a time.

Support the Ellie Fund by liking them on Facebook or following them on Twitter. Donations of all sizes are greatly appreciated and can be made through their website at Elliefund.org.

More information about upcoming fundraising events can be found at Elliefund.org/events.

Mandy Mulliez is a freelance writer, photographer and mother of two living in Needham. More information about photography can be found at www.mandymulliezphotography.com, and she can be reached at mandysjm@hotmail.com.

BAYSTATEPARENT 12 13

Nutcracker_2013_BSP-Cookies&Tea 9/13/13 6:48 AM Page 1

While you're busy at work, your child is busy at PLA Y !

12:00 – 4:00PM SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10TH

Cookies & Tea With Clara

Year

Meet Clara in the Promenade of the Hanover Theatre.You’re invited to her tea party and to enter her magical world of the Nutcracker. Read the Nutcracker story with Clara, receive a signed autograph picture and be the lucky child to dance away with Clara’s famous pointe shoes!!!!

Round * We were Enrollment voted “Best Preschool”

by Northboro Patch * Celebrating 10 Years • Family owned and run • Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K and Kindergarten Programs • EEC Licensed Teachers • The Letter People Curriculum • Lively Letters Curriculum • Indoor Gym • Sibling Discounts, Military Discounts • Music & Movement, Tumblebus • Tae Kwon Do

CALL 508.791.3233 FOR RESERVATIONS $12 per person Limited Seating

Nutcracker Performance

NGCC_OpenHouseAd_Aug15_Halfpg_BSP_Layout 1 7/25/13 7:36 PM Page 1

PHOTOGRAPH BY ALICE PEPPLOW

Tickets on Sale NOW!!

Nov. 29 – Dec. 1, 2013 Thanksgiving Weekend Call 877.571.SHOW or TheHanoverTheatre.org

New:Half day Preschool and PK programs at the Otis Street location.

172 Otis Street (behind Walmart) Northboro, MA • (508) 393-0798 348 Main Street (Rte 20) Northboro, MA • (508) 393-2100

www.skribbles.com

Hours: 7:00 AM TO 6:00 PM, 52 weeks a year

Infant • Toddler • Preschool • Pre-Kindergarten • Kindergarten

Next Generation Children’s Centers

OPEN HOUSE

ALL LOCATIONS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10TH • 7 AM – 7 PM

Call: (866) 711-6422

| Visit: ngccenters.com

Celebrating 20 Years As A Leader In Early Childhood Education Andover • Beverly • Franklin • Hopkinton • Marlborough • Natick • Sudbury • Walpole • Westborough • Westford 14 OCTOBER2013 15

Urban Fall Fashion

With These Stylin’ Sibs BAYSTATEPARENT 14 15

What was it like doing a photo shoot with your sister?

It was pretty cool especially when I had my sister on my back!

-Luke Boardman, 10, of Sterling

What did you think of the location of the photo shoot?

I liked the fan. I made funny voices with it.

-Eamon Snyder, 4, of Boston

How did you keep busy during the photo shoot? I had a book and my tablet.

-Laela Boardman, 8, of Sterling

Did you like the clothes you wore? I was wearing a wolf costume with a tail and eyes and ears on the back of the hood.

Eamon was wearing a fox coat.

-Aaron Snyder, 6, of Boston

What would you like to do when you grow up?

This may sound impossible, but EVERYTHING! I want to be a geologist, volcanologist, singer, candy store owner, artist, mommy: I could just do a different thing each day of the week.

-Mia Allen, 5 ½, of Needham

Did you like having your photo taken? It was pretty cool, actually, especially if it is Stephanie taking the pictures.

She’s understanding and just tells you what she wants you to do, and I can do that and have fun!

-Olivia Allen, 7 ½, of Needham

2.

1

On previous page in the center, Mia is wearing a Persnickety Hattie Skirt, long-sleeve ribbed top by Imoga and Peppercorn Kids Fox Scarf. Olivia is wearing a black and white dress from Little Goodall (etsy.com/shop/ littlegoodall) and leg warmers from Purl Lamb (purllamb.bigcartel.com).

2

To the right, brothers Aaron and Eamon are wearing coats from Little Goodall.

Below middle, Aaron is wearing a 3 Pommes Black coated jean and a plaid hoodie from Woolrich. Eamon is wearing Little Traveler red cargos, Knuckleheads Morrison sweater and hat.

3 4

Sisters Olivia and Mia are wearing coats from Little Goodall.

On the top right, Laela is wearing a Deux par Deux sweater, Ragdoll & Rockets stripe Mary Jane pant, Deux Par Deux faux fur vest and a Peppercorn Kids necklace. Her brother Luke is wearing IKKS slate pants and a Drill Clothing button down shirt. On the bottom right, Luke and Laela’s felt masks are from Seven Feather’s Tribe (etsy.com/shop/sevenfeatherstribe).

Photography: Stephanie Piscitelli (bellinipics.com) Creative Director: Paula Monette Ethier Editor: Jennifer Lucarelli Clothing and Styling: Epiphany Children’s Boutique of Northborough (facebook.com/epiphanykids) Hair and Makeup: Toni & Guy Salon/Academy, of Worcester (toniguy.com) 16 OCTOBER2013 17

3.

4.

Eamon Snyder, 4, Boston; Olivia Allen, 7 ½, Needham; Luke Boardman, 10, Sterling; Aaron Snyder, 6, Boston; Mia Allen, 5 ½, Needham; Laela Boardman, 8, Sterling.

BAYSTATEPARENT 16 17

baystateparent magazine is commemorating the Boston Children’s Museum on its 100 year anniversary with this special section

play THE

POWER OF

COMES A LONG WAY!

baystateparent is collaborating with Boston Children’s Museum to create a new, exciting supplement to our publication, which we’re entitling “The Power of Play.” Each month, we will include

ATTENTION

KIDS special features, content, fun ideas (and even some special offers) from this venerable institution which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.

100 Year Birthday Celebration A weekend of music, making and movement

October 4-6, 2013 Boston Children’s Museum will celebrate its birthday with a festival of indoor and outdoor music, performing arts, science, fitness, live animals, a floating birthday cake and more. This weekend caps-off a spring and summer of joyful programs and events that touched thousands of families and children and saw the generosity of numerous sponsors and partners of the Museum. They want to express their thanks to the Greater Boston community and welcome everyone to this fantastic weekend of fun.

Friday Oct. 4, 5-9 p.m.

It all starts on Friday with music and a dance party for all ages to enjoy. Powered by the ICA DJ Collective, Urbanity Dance, Lil’ Phunk, and Boston Children’s Chorus, activities will include a DJ battle, generation themed dance lessons and dance battles, and the 500 member Boston Children’s Chorus singing “I Am” written and composed specifically for the 100th Birthday of the Museum. All of this will be topped off with a delicious piece of birthday cake for everyone created by Montilio’s Baking Company.

18 OCTOBER2013 19

100 Ways for Children to Play Here are the next 10 in our list:

1. Have a freeze dance! Put on some music and dance like crazy. When the music stops, freeze in whatever wacky position you’re in.

4. Have a jump roping contest.

2. Play toe tac tic: but the goal is NOT to get three in a row.

6. Make crazy hats out of paper, paper grocery bags or fabric.

3. Make a whistle with a blade of grass. Check out some tips here: wikihow.com/Whistle-Using-Grass.

5. Build structures using straws and pipe cleaners or paper clips to connect them together.

to fill the cups with the pitcher…then ask them to fill the pitcher with the cups! Experiment with different sized cups.

8. Play “Thing-Go Bingo” on a long car ride (especially if it’s a daily commute) – each player picks 5 things 7. Practice pouring – give your young they think they’ll see on their car ride… first person to spot those 5 things child a small plastic pitcher and a few plastic cups in the bathtub and ask them calls out bingo! For instructions, go to

Saturday Oct. 5, 10:30 a.m.-1 a.m.

Saturday is filled with programs for kids and adults including live animal presentations, KidStage plays, visiting artists, an outdoor National Grid Tinker Tent filled with science and hands-on making and fixing activities and performers including Revels, Urbanity Dance, the Afro-Brazilian Ensemble, and Iskwelahang Pilipino Rondalla. The day will culminate with “Up Too Late,” a party for adults with music, dancing, improv, food and drink.

beyondthechalkboard.com/activities/ thing-go-bingo/.

9. Throw a bed sheet over your dining room or kitchen table to make an instant clubhouse.

10. Make up songs about your daily chores or routines, like taking out the garbage, washing the dishes or going to school.

For more details on times and events visit www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org/calendar Boston Children’s Museum extends special thanks to Centennial Lead Sponsors Highland Street Foundation and State Street Corporation and to Supporting Sponsors Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, New Balance Foundation, National Grid, Suffolk Construction, The Fallon Company, BNY Mellon, CBS Boston’s WBZ-TV and myTV38 (WSBK-TV), Massachusetts Cultural Council and The Boston Foundation.

Sunday Oct. 6, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fun events continue on Sunday with visiting

artists, live animals, New Balance games, and performers Karen Montanaro, Boston Bhangra, and Boston Ballet senior students.

BAYSTATEPARENT 18 19

Baystate_Layout 1 9/13/13 9:49 AM Page 1

LL NO O R W EN

C O M M O N W E A LT H BA L L E T The P R E S E N T S

Nutcracker

Acton-Boxborough Regional High School November 29 – 6PM November 30 – 1PM & 6PM December 1 – 1PM

Try a ss!

EE Cla

FR

Regis College, Weston December 20 – 7PM December 21 – 1PM & 6PM December 22 – 1PM

Order online at commonwealthballet.org or call 978-263-7794

Est 1974

So much more than piano lessons!

Our complete music program for 3 to 8 year olds includes: Piano Singing Harmony Rhythm

Tickets starting at $20

Worcester

Free parking

Guitar Note Reading Ear Training Composition

Recorder Ensemble Playing Music Theory Percussion

Westborough

Making Musi Last a LIFETIME! 508-898-3888

childrensmusicacademy.org

PHOTO: MIKE NYMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Infants • Toddlers Preschool Full Time and Part Time Kindercam in every classroom!

We have cameras in every classroom that parents can log onto throughout the day and watch their children at the center!

• Structured curriculum beginning at 15 months • All staff members are infant/child CPR and first aid certified • Weekly visits from The Story Teller, Music Man, My First Yoga, The Tumble Bus, Happy Feet and Hoop It (Kids Basketball)

Owned and operated since 1994 (19 years!)

New Location: Framingham (508) 872-3600 63 Fountain St. 20 OCTOBER2013 21

Very competitive rates

www.TheLearningZoneOnline Belmont (617) 489-1161 279 Belmont St.

Waltham (781) 891-3600 295 Weston St.

Weston (781) 642-6787 101 River Road

PEDIATRIC HEALTH 22 24 26 28

New UMass Study Reveals Breakthrough In Down syndrome Research 22q Deletion Syndrome: The Most Common Rare Syndrome You’ve Never Heard Of Getting To The Heart Of The Matter Alternatives Therapies For Children

HOW DO YOUR KIDS REACT TO THE DENTIST? COME TO THE KIDS’ DENTIST! This high tech dental practice combines the latest techniques in comfortable, kid-friendly dentistry with a nurturing, fun educational enviornment!

• Highly skilled doctors specializing in Pediatric dentistry and Orthodontics.

BrainCore Therapy

can provide you or your loved one with a unique drugless approach to treating Brainwave Dysregulation that may be associated with: ADD/ADHD • Learning Disorders • Headaches • Migraines Insomnia • Fibromyalgia • Traumatic Brain injury Panic Attacks • Anxiety Disorders • Memory Loss • Autism

Mention this ad for a FREE initial consultation to see if you qualify.

843.368.2952

BrainCore.Dianne@gmail.com www.braincoretherapy.com Mansfield & Jamaica Plain, MA

• Fun filled reception rooms including play house, Playstation3 and arcade games.

• Treatment for children age 1 and over.

• Hospital dentistry for fearful and anxious children.

• Orthodontics for children and adults.

• Parents invited to stay in the room during all stages of their child’s treatment.

Reema Dhingra, DMD, PC and Associates Drury Square Medical Center • 48 Auburn St. • Auburn, MA

www.newengland-kids.com

BAYSTATEPARENT 20 21

PEDIATRICHEALTH

New UMass Study Reveals

BREAKTHROUGH in Down Syndrome Research by christine m. quirk

S

cientists at UMass Medical School have discovered a way to “turn off” the extra chromosome responsible for Down syndrome.

“What we were attempting to do in this study is to test a new idea for how the problem of over-expression of many genes in Down syndrome might be addressed,” Dr. Jeanne B. Lawrence, professor of cell and developmental biology at UMass, says in a video provided by the school.

Harry and Dawn Brooks of Leicester have been watching the developments carefully. Their middle child and only daughter, 11-year-old Sydney, has Down syndrome.

“First day I read about it, I said, ‘When can I sign her up?’” Harry Brooks says. “If I could change this for her, I would, to make things easier for her.”

Humans are born with 23 pairs of chromosomes, but people with Down syndrome are born with three copies of chromosome 21. This extra chromosome causes a multitude of problems: cognitive disability, earlyonset Alzheimer’s disease, a greater risk of childhood leukemia, heart defects and immune and endocrine system dysfunction. It is, Lawrence says, the leading cause of intellectual disabilities in children.

The research uses a naturally occurring phenomenon. Males have two X chromosomes, while females have one X and one Y chromosomes.

A gene called XIST turns off that extra X chromosome in females, so, 22 OCTOBER2013 23

using stem cells, scientists took that gene and applied it to the extra 21st chromosome.

“It worked remarkably well,” Lawrence said. “Reducing the level returns those genes to near normal cells.”

This discovery is ground-breaking, according to a press-release from UMass, because correcting a whole chromosome has previously been unheard of, even in cultured cells.

“I think eventually this research is going to eradicate Down syndrome,” Harry Brooks says. “I think there will be a lot more information and education for parents to make decisions.”

The research paves the way for treatments for Down syndrome and other genetic disorders. Lawrence says this discovery makes it conceivable that one day drugs or other therapies might be developed to mimic the

XIST gene.

Though that day is still years away, it’s concerning to Dawn Brooks, who, she says, has the opposite view of her husband.

“I do see where Harry is coming from. I honestly do,” she says. “But I’m not willing to take that risk for a trial. What are the side effects? I don’t want her to be a guinea pig. I am so against it. What if we gave her a drug, and it made her worse instead of better?”

Sydney’s condition was a complete surprise to her family; Dawn’s pregnancy and labor were uneventful.

“We had no clue,” Harry recalls.

“Everything was fine, and my wife went into labor. I didn’t know anything about Down syndrome, but as soon as I saw her, I knew.”

Sydney had open heart surgery at age 3 and has had many sets of tubes in her ears. She’s also had her tonsils out,

but her father says considering the health challenges people with Down syndrome can face, she’s remarkably healthy.

She’s also had a terrific school experience, Harry says. He praises the Leicester School District, saying it has put in a great effort from day one to help his daughter.

“From preschool right off the bat, everyone wanted to work together,” he says.

Sydney is now a fifth grader at Memorial School. She receives speech services and has a 1:2 paraprofessional to help her, and though she receives special help with math and reading, for most of the day she is in the classroom with her typical peers.

Sydney also helps in an after school program at Leicester Primary School, working with kindergarten students.

“The principal saw how well she worked with the little kids when she was in second grade,” Harry Brooks says. “They’d all sit and do their work with her.”

Now, Harry Brooks says, that participation is tied to Sydney’s positive behavior at school – if the day goes well, she goes over the primary school and so far this school year, he says, she’s been able to go every day.

“She’s stubborn as heck, but she definitely knows right from wrong,” he says.

Her love of school is evident, her dad says.

“She loves to learn,” Harry Brooks says. “I picked up some workbooks for the summer, and they’re leveled, for grades 3, 4, 5 and 6. She did all four.

She’d say, ‘I have to do my homework.’

She’s pretty well up there.”

But Brooks is concerned that, cognitively, this level is as far as she will be able to go.

“At a certain age, I’ve discovered in living with Down syndrome, eventually it will stay at a certain level,” he says. “So I think [the research] is a great thing, cognitive-wise.”

He is also worried about Sydney’s social development.

“My biggest concern has been friendships,” he says. “She’s friends with everybody, but kids aren’t friends with her. She just wants to play. When she was little, no one really noticed and now that they notice no one wants to play with her. It’s horrible.”

The Brooks family is involved in Special Olympics, a sports program for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. With Special Olympics, Sydney plays soccer, basketball and baseball and this year began playing Worcester Youth Flag Football.

“The boys on the flag football team are wonderful with her,” Dawn Brooks says. “They make sure she’s doing what she’s supposed to. And it’s good for other members of society. It exposes the other children to the idea that the world is not perfect.”

“She loves sports,” Harry Brooks says. “I think it’s important to get her out and active in the community and give her what you’re going to give any other child.”

The Brooks’ hope for their daughter is not much different than those of any other parent, and their expectations for Sydney are the same as those for their sons, Bailey, 13 and Matthew, 8: They want their children to be happy, independent, hardworking, and self-sufficient. Sydney, her father says, wants to get married and have babies and be a nurse or a school teacher. Perhaps, Harry Brooks says, Dr. Lawrence’s discoveries and where those discoveries might lead will make those goals more attainable for Sydney.

“If she’s ever able to achieve those things, we’ll see,” he says. “We learn every day still.”

“We have her for a reason, and she is who she is,” Dawn Brooks says. “I am a firm believer in what’s meant to be will be. God gave us Sydney the way she is, and I haven’t figured out why, but it was meant to be.”

New Patient Special* $129

(Child First Visit)

Pediatric dentists: Dr. Jolanta Macdonald Dr. Sandhya Menon OrthOdOntist: Dr. Anita Bhatt General dentist: Dr. Craig Macdonald

508.393.9394

www.mychildrensdentist.com

38 SW Cutoff (Route 20) Northborough, MA 01532

Open House

Rein in a Dream Horsemanship Center

Thursday, October 17th 6-7 p.m.

Pre-Kindergarten through Grade Six

Free Ortho Consult

*Offer for new patients without insurance only.

Please present coupon at appointment. Expires 12.20.2013

Christine Quirk is a Central Mass. freelance writer and mom of two children.

“Where bright minds come together!”

$149

(Adult First Visit)

• Specializing in therapeutic riding.

• Lessons open to the public.

Limited spaces are available for the 2013/2014 school year.

• Serving children as young as two years old through adult.

The Brighton School is a non-profit, private, independent elementary school dedicated to providing a quality education that addresses the individual needs of students.

• Private and small group instruction.

• Accelerated Program Available • Individualized Curriculum • Small Class Sizes • Nurturing Environment • Specialized Instruction in: Music, Art, Science, Computer, French, Physical Education and Creative Movement

• Lessons offered yearround, seven days a week.

Call to learn more about our riding lessons, small animal care, and mini horses for our youngest children.

Perkins 360 Water Street, P.O. Box 3204, Framingham, MA 01705 508-877-8200 • www.brightonschoolofma.org

Rein in a Dream 868 Main Street Lancaster, MA

Contact Cherie Ansin, 978/368-4804 or

BAYSTATEPARENT 22 23

PEDIATRICHEALTH

22q Deletion

Syndrome:

The Most Common Rare Syndrome You’ve Never Heard by michaela spampinato

extraordinarily difficult for medical professionals to recognize.”

Parents of 22q kids, their clinicians and genetic counselors all agree that the earlier the child is diagnosed the easier the child’s journey will be.

michael ivins/boston red sox

Riley’s Story

R

iley Dempster is 4 ½ years old. Her father, Ryan Dempster, who joined the Red Sox in January, thinks her coloring skills are amazing. Though Dempster admits with a laugh, “I don’t know if at that age there is such a thing as a bad colorer.” Like most 4 year olds, she also loves music, dancing, cooking and dressing up like a princess. But having a professional pitcher as a father isn’t the only thing that sets Riley apart.

She has 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, a disorder caused by the deletion of a small part of chromosome 22.

24 OCTOBER2013 25

22q can cause over 180 different issues, from heart defects, immune deficiency and breathing issues to developmental delays and anxiety disorders. It is fairly common, between 1 in 2,000 and 1 in 4,000, though many, like Michelle BreedloveSells, the executive director of the Dempster Family Foundation, suspect this is inaccurate. She believes this figure is a “gross underestimate of the numbers in large part due to the many people who are undiagnosed for years and for their entire lives…

No two children who are born with 22q deletion syndrome have the same set of issues which makes it

Jenny and Ryan Dempster were lucky because Riley was diagnosed days after she was born. While she was pregnant with Riley, Jenny had polyhydramnios, an excess of amniotic fluid.

“When they did an ultrasound in utero the OB/GYN actually noticed that there was very, very little fluid in Riley’s stomach, which meant there was a possibility she wasn’t swallowing,” Ryan says. “After she went into the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)—she was little and tiny and dealing with issues of swallowing and things like that—they did a FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) test. It came back five days later, and it said that she had it. It started the ball rolling in the direction we wanted to go to get her as safe as possible first and obviously from there to get her to thrive.”

Riley’s early diagnosis has helped the Dempsters to be proactive, rather than reactive, regarding Riley’s treatment.

Her biggest obstacle physically was a lack of mobility in her esophagus. She

had a trach, a tube inserted to help her breathe, for the first year and a half of her life. This has caused some speech delay, a fairly common 22q symptom.

Now she is doing well.

“After going to preschool for the first few days of the week she’s a chatty Cathy,” Ryan says. She still goes to speech therapy twice a week, but the swallowing issues and ear infections are long gone. Doctor visits are fewer and farther between.

For parents of newly diagnosed kids, Ryan recommends that you read everything about the syndrome you can and most importantly, “Don’t be afraid to ask questions, although the thought of the answer might scare you… Jenny and I asked a lot of questions,” he says. “We probably drove the doctors crazy to be honest with you, but I think Riley has really thrived because of it.”

Learning More Betsy Leech, who runs the 22q-VCFS Center in Cincinnati has been a genetic counselor for 25 years. She says, even with her years of experience, this work pulls on every skill she’s ever acquired.

The challenge is not only in the multitude of possible symptoms and the lack of familiarity with the syndrome. In the past doctors

dempster family foundation

Heard Of diagnosed sets of symptoms and named the disorder they saw, so 22q is known by several names, including DiGeorge syndrome and Velo-cardiofacial syndrome (VCFS) among others.

No one understood the big picture until the laboratory treatment for this deletion was developed. Today there are several blood tests that can check for 22q including FISH, comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), whole genome or SNP array, and multiplex ligation-probe amplification (MLPA).

It is not currently included in statemandated newborn screening tests.

When kids are diagnosed early it’s often because of problems that need immediate attention, like heart defects or Riley’s swallowing difficulties. Once those are taken care of, the child may develop learning difficulties. For many parents, Leech says “this is a marathon, not a sprint.”

One of the most difficult pieces of information to share with parents is that adults with 22q are at 25% risk of schizophrenia, serious depression or bi-polar issues.

“That’s one of the hardest things to face about the syndrome and one of the most unique things,” Leech says. “We’re beginning to understand more about why. It’s the only genetic condition that does that.”

With this propensity for anxiety and depression it’s all the more important that parents of 22q kids don’t forget

to enjoy their children.

Between juggling the physical, occupational and speech therapies, Leech encourages “the families to put a day on the calendar when they don’t do 22q.” Don’t miss their childhood, worrying about what could be coming around the corner, she recommends.

Lastly, she emphasizes the variability of the syndrome.

“Having one chromosome not working like it should be doesn’t change the fact that the 45 other chromosomes are still doing all the things that make the child unique,” she says. People with 22q are artists, musicians and even fashion designers.

“You can get so focused on what goes wrong that you forget about what goes right.”

The Dempster Family Foundation The Dempster Family Foundation was formed a few months before Riley was born, with the purpose of supporting various worthy causes, including animal shelters and military families.

Riley’s diagnosis quickly shifted 80% of the foundation’s resources toward 22q deletion syndrome. Since the appointment of Michelle BreedloveSells, a family friend of the Dempsters and Riley’s godmother, in January, the entire focus of the organization is now 22q.

This work has been both profoundly personal and fulfilling for BreedloveSells because she was born with several medical issues including scoliosis and no thumb on her left hand. BreedloveSells is irrepressibly optimistic about her work. In addition to awareness, education and research for 22q, the foundation promotes fun for 22q kids and families with events such as beauty pageants and balloon releases.

“There are a lot of successes we want to celebrate,” she says. “These kids are incredibly strong children. They overcome some of the most incredible obstacles… It’s the most incredible job.”

“The biggest or most common story we heard from a lot of the parents, especially the children who are older with 22q, is ‘We didn’t find out till they were 4,’ ‘We didn’t find out till they were 6’… and that’s a tough thing to go through with a lot of unknowns and then you’re constantly trying to catch up to the curve or somehow try to find a way to get around it or on top of it,” she says about the families she met through her work at the foundation.

“The primary focus at the foundation is without question awareness,” Breedlove-Sells says as a result of what she learned from families.

The foundation not only supports education projects such as conferences for both clinicians and families, but also has set up community networks so that families can share the information they have culled with each other.

“It’s not like having cancer where there’s a Cancer Center of America,” she says. “(There are) a few clinics that we have supported over the years, but they are few and far between and most people have to travel to get to them. So people must deal with the professionals in their town. In the town where I grew up I promise you nobody knows about 22q but me.”

The future goals of the foundation include scholarships for kids graduating from high school, along with a parent advisory board to run them, and a free video education library, which would be immensely helpful to the many families who can’t afford to attend conferences. The foundation has also started contacting physicians who have patients with 22q who are willing to talk with other

physicians about what they know.

This way a parent in Oklahoma whose doctors are unfamiliar with the syndrome can direct them to the page on the website.

As for the future, Breedlove-Sells says, “I always feel like I’m failing because there’s always more to do and the job is so huge, but the reality is that there has been a tremendous amount of momentum for this community of families over the last few years.”

Ryan Dempster hopes that the foundation will continue its work for decades, not only driving awareness of the syndrome, but also helping put the 22q kids in a position to thrive. “Hopefully one day maybe it’s something that Riley can take the reins and work on if she wants,” he says. “Though I have a tough enough time telling her what to do now when she’s 4.”

You can find out more about 22q at dempsterfamilyfoundation.org.

Michaela Spampinato is a mother and freelance writer living in Cambridge. You can read more of her work in the Raising Boston section of the LFB (the-lfb.com/ category/lifestyle/raisingboston/).

Back to school has never looked so cool.

eye glasses.

Magay &Barron est.

1912

EYE CE NTE R

For all your eye exam and eyewear needs.

460 Lincoln Street : Worcester Magay.com : 508.852.3760 L O C AT E D N E X T T O H A N O V E R I N S U R A N C E

BAYSTATEPARENT 24 25

Getting to the HEART PEDIATRICHEALTH

T

here are a million little nightmares that come with being a parent. Losing sight of your child in a crowd of people for even a moment, for example. And I vividly recall carrying my infant daughter in our new house – she’d arrived two weeks early, and we’d barely unpacked any of our belongings – and tripping over a box in the hallway.

She seemed impossibly fragile to me in that moment, and I remember the millisecond of abject panic that coursed through me as I tried to regain my footing. Thankfully my still emerging parental instincts kicked in, and I kept her in my grasp. But I felt like I dodged a bullet.

That feeling pales in comparison, however, to what gripped our family in the summer of 2008. Just a few weeks shy of our daughter’s 5th birthday, she came downstairs from her afternoon

26 OCTOBER2013 27

of the MATTER by matt bruun

nap and said she felt funny. I sat on the couch next to her and put my arm around her shoulders, with my palm resting against her tummy. I could feel her heart racing in her chest, like a herd of Clydesdales at full gallop. I asked if she felt OK, and she said she was. There was no external sign of anything amiss.

It was off to the emergency room, where her heart rate was measured at 280 beats per minute. She responded instantly to the medicine she was given, and we were told that she was probably fine, but we should follow up with a cardiologist, just to be safe.

We were heading out of town the next day for a short vacation, and they said we had no reason to cancel our trip – but she was to be kept clear of any chocolate or caffeine until she was seen by the specialist. The lack of chocolate was a tall order, but our daughter was ready to face the adversity.

It took a couple weeks for us to get

an appointment with the cardiologist, and in the interim we researched a bit about supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), a term which had thankfully never been in our vocabulary before.

We learned that in some cases SVT occurs just once, without explanation, and never occurs again – but it can also be the result of a life-threatening condition.

There were no cardiac incidents on our vacation, and our daughter was her usual bubbly self, loving the hotel pool and enjoying being with her extended family. Upon our return, we went to the cardiologist. An EKG revealed our daughter had WolffParkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome – essentially an extra electrical pathway in her heart that caused the elevated rate. It’s a treatable condition and the doctor recommended an operation to repair it. In the procedure, called a catheter ablation, the surplus electrical pathway is zapped away with

radio waves. In an adult it can be an outpatient procedure, but for a 5-yearold it would require an overnight stay.

We were referred to a cardiologist at Children’s Hospital in Boston.

Another EKG confirmed the WPW diagnosis and the doctor echoed the recommendation of an operation to repair it. He told us he had performed thousands of similar procedures and never had a bad outcome, but we were to be mindful that any surgery carries risk. Our other option was to do nothing beyond keeping a close eye on our daughter and following up on a regular basis with the cardiologist.

But he noted that another of his patients – a girl our daughter’s age – was being observed and had dropped dead from the condition. We opted for the operation.

The cardiologist was wonderful to us, respectful of our concerns while being clear and direct about what was involved. He was also amazing

with our daughter, talking to her in language she could understand and projecting a kind confidence that everything was going to be OK. It took agonizing weeks for us to schedule the procedure, and we wrestled with constant fears that another incident was in the offing.

We just wanted our daughter fixed and safe. Our daughter was not very anxious, but we had shielded her from the scariest details of her condition.

We told her there was something broken in her heart that needed to be fixed, and that we were going to take her to the hospital to get it done. And when we were finished, she’d be all better, and could eat tons of chocolate again. That encouraged her.

We arrived at Children’s Hospital early the morning of the procedure, with our then-3-year-old son back home being watched by his grandparents. Our daughter enjoyed seeing the Boston skyline as we drove into the city at dawn, not betraying any fears about what was to come.

We’d assured her from the beginning that everything would be OK. I can’t say enough good things about Children’s Hospital, where we received a great deal of attention from the caring nurses and physicians we encountered. Knowing what a

busy place it is, it seemed remarkably personal to us, and we felt we were in capable hands throughout. Even in our brief time at Children’s, we saw many families whose children are facing much tougher battles with grimmer prognoses. I don’t know how those parents do it, but I salute them.

As our daughter awaited the procedure, she was delightedly watching television in her room while my wife and I sought to stifle our darkest fears. We had a welcomed break in the tension when our daughter received an oral sedative to make her sleepy in advance of the operation, and she was giggling drunkenly as she felt the medicine’s effects. But when they wheeled her away from us, I was as scared as I’ve ever been. At that moment I couldn’t look down and see that she was OK, or lean over to kiss her forehead and reassure her – and myself – that she was fine. At the same time, I was hopeful because she was in good hands and likely en route to a permanent fix for her condition. We knew the procedure should last about 90 minutes, and it was the longest hour and a half of our lives.

And then it was over. The doctor called us to say the procedure had gone well, and we could see our daughter soon. He reported that it had been

Nuturing Care For Your Child Designed by Experienced Child Care Professionals who are also Moms

an utterly routine operation. I know my daughter is special, I thought, but I was glad she didn’t seek to make an impression in this circumstance. The doctor told our daughter she was all better, and she was thrilled with a cup of hot chocolate at breakfast the next morning.

We left with the knowledge that our daughter was totally fixed, with a clean bill of cardiac health. A followup earlier this year – five years after the operation – yielded the same findings. All is well, and we know how lucky we are that our experience was merely a detour on this parental journey. As for our daughter, she speaks with pride about how bravely she confronted the time she “got my heart fixed.”

Sometimes I still catch myself thinking about those fears that gripped us five years ago, and count my blessings

that my daughter is a thriving and healthy 10-year-old – and that she doesn’t mind when her dad gives her a hug for no discernible reason.

Matt Bruun is a former journalist who lives in Massachusetts with his wife and their two children.

Little Hands Academy offers a developmental approach to education.

Limited Openings for the Fall Learn more and take a tour:

508-751-6985 childrensgarden@vnacarenetwork.org The Children’s Garden features: • Continuum of care for ages 8 weeks to 5 years • Serving families living and working in Central Massachusetts since 1989 • Convenient location at 120 Thomas St., Worcester, near downtown and I-290 “Since the first day we brought (our son) to the VNA, it has felt like a second family. He has grown so much over the years with the warmth and guidance of all of the teachers and staff.” – Laura and Ray “I am going to stay here forever and ever ‘til I’m a mom.” – Elise, age 4 Child Care Center

120 Thomas St., Worcester (Close to St. Vincent’s and MCPHS)

Our goal is to promote the cognitive, social, emotional and physical growth of your child.

We believe the needs and rights of the child come first.

• Educating learners from birth to PreK • Child centered, play based curriculum • Full Year and Summer Programs

Where children’s creativity, individualism and exploration thrive.

31B Union Ave, Sudbury, Ma 01776 Call us today for a tour.

978-440-7220 • www.lhasudbury.com BAYSTATEPARENT 26 27

PEDIATRICHEALTH

ALTERNATIVE Therapies for Children by laura richards

M

ost parents are dedicated to keeping their kids healthy by taking them to their well visits and to the doctor when they are sick, but more and more parents are looking to alternative care as well. With the overuse of antibiotics and other medications some parents are seeking options like acupuncture, chiropractic care, craniosacral therapy and homeopathy to keep their kids in top form.

Finding the root cause of illness and treating it is far more effective in the long run than popping a pill or just treating symptoms. As the old saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

You must check with your child’s pediatrician first before trying any therapies and alternatives, but used in conjunction with traditional Western medicine, alternative care can be extremely helpful if not more effective in some cases. More practitioners are open to alternatives when used wisely.

You just need to ask.

Linda Stoll, 44, is a former resident of Winchester and has a daughter who is now 5. Linda herself had gone to a natural life practitioner (NLP) and acupuncturist for 10 years to help various health issues so when her daughter was born, she took her there too. Linda let her regular pediatrician know she was doing this and he was OK with it.

Between the ages of 2 and 3, her daughter developed itchiness all over her body and would wake up nightly as a result. Her doctor and allergist thought it was eczema or dry skin so the doctor prescribed different lotions, none of which worked. She had tiny bumps on her body that were barely visible. Her doctor told Linda that it was OK to give her daughter Benadryl every night. Instead, Linda chose to seek alternative treatment based upon her own past success.

Her NLP ultimately diagnosed her daughter with parasites and gave her alternative whole food supplements as well as an herbal liquid mix.

28 OCTOBER2013

“My daughter took the supplements that he prescribed and was ultimately free of the itching,” Linda says. “The itchiness is completely gone now for over a year, and her skin has returned to normal. She is sleeping better, and I don’t have to give her Benadryl anymore.”

Linda continues to take her daughter to the NLP for checkups and wellness checks as well as her regular pediatrician for checkups.

“My core belief is that Western medicine is great for fixing things; emergency care, broken limbs etc., but an alternative therapy specialist often times will work to treat the root cause of the problem so that it does not become a larger issue,” Linda says. “His goal is to help people get their body back to optimum health by building a healthy immune system, addressing the root of the problems instead of just dealing with the symptoms, which does not help with reoccurrence. I do think that Western medicine and alternative medicine can work hand in hand.”

There are many options out there that have stood the test of time and just may help boost your child’s health when used as a supplement to traditional care.

Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle hands-on treatment that works on the sacrum, spine and head to improve the function of the nervous system. Specific conditions include all types of headaches, learning and attention problems, concussions, fatigue, constipation, back, neck and muscle pain and tension, asthma, gynecological issues, sinus congestion, temporomandibular joint (TMJ), chronic ear infections and seizure disorders. Some of these problems are much more stubborn than others and take a while to improve.

“Children benefit and often do much better than parents expect being relatively quiet and still on the treatment table,” says Alice Duddy, a licensed craniosacral therapist and physical therapist based in Framingham. Alice most commonly sees kids with chronic ear infections,

sinus congestion, ADHD, Autism, Asperger’s, constipation, headaches and concussions in teenagers. “Results vary from resolution to improvement.”

Chiropractic care is an alternative approach to treating the cause of pain and distress in the body. It addresses the nervous system specifically and works to remove any interference on the nerves. Chiropractic adjustments can correct misalignments in the spine and extremities that are causing interference. Misalignments of the spine in children can come from falls, accidents, illness or excessive strain during labor and delivery.

“There are many conditions that affect children besides aches and pains that can be addressed with chiropractic,” says Dr. Noel Cappillo, a licensed chiropractor in Wellesley who utilizes a gentle method of adjustment with an instrument called the activator that gives a low force, quick impulse to the joint being adjusted. “Pediatric ailments such as colds, trouble sleeping, GI issues, developmental and gross delay and anxiety have been treated using chiropractic care with successful outcomes. If necessary, chiropractic care can be used for treating ailments in conjunction with other alternatives like massage therapy or acupuncture as well as in combination with traditional medicine.”

Some of Dr. Cappillo’s success stories include a young boy just over a year old who was delayed in walking. After his first treatment he began pulling up on furniture and could use his legs more efficiently and was walking shortly thereafter. She has also successfully treated 17 year-old girl who had severe autism who had relief from GI issues after her first treatment and as a result started sleeping through the night on a regular basis.

More recently, a young girl anxious about starting fourth grade came in for a treatment. Afterward she reported being able to take much deeper breaths and felt more at ease for the start of school. These are just a few examples of why chiropractic is an important alternative treatment for children to

help them reach their fullest potential without prescription drugs.

Acupuncture is medical therapy that is over 3,000 years old and originated in China. An acupuncturist inserts small, sterilized, thin needles into the skin. Sometimes you may not feel anything or you may feel a dull, achy sensation. The needles are placed in specific areas of the body and multiple conditions can be treated at the same time. Children can be treated with needles or by a non-insertive method. The practitioners will gauge a child's sensitivity and use the most appropriate method.

“Acupuncture is great for kids,” says Dr. Robert Yauckoes, a licensed acupuncturist and owner of Acupuncture Connections in Framingham. “It’s gentle and safe, and we see children for a multitude of conditions or just to stay healthy. There are many conditions that we treat in the clinic, but a few conditions that we treat exceptionally well are children that are sick frequently, ear infections, sore throats, allergies (both food and environmental), GI issues, nightmares, stress, emotional sensitivity and headaches to mention a few.”

“Acupuncture is a complementary medicine. Some conditions are best treated when acupuncture and Western medicine are performed simultaneously,” he adds. “More and more doctors are referring patients to our practice as they learn about the benefits of acupuncture.”

If you are considering any alternative therapy for your child, first check with your pediatrician. Do your research and find a certified practitioner with experience.

Laura Richards is a freelance writer, professional organizer, wife and mother of four boys ranging in age from one to 11-year-old identical twins. She blogs from her website modernmothering. com and her organizing company is called Organization Works OrganizationWorks.biz.

OH, THE

Congratulations!

Today is your day.

You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!

PLACES YOU’LL

- dr. seuss

photo courtesy of the huntington theatre company

GO

GO BUILD: Come to the Lego Club at the Fitchburg Public Library weekly on Thursdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

photo courtesy of old sturbridge village

photo courtesy of mike the bubble man

photo courtesy of the fitchburg public library

GO WILD: The Jungle Book is playing at the Huntington Theatre Company in Boston through Oct. 13. Tickets start at $25.

GO BUBBLES: Don’t miss Mike the Bubble Man at the American Repertory Theatre at Oberon in Cambridge on Saturday, Oct. 5.

Tickets start at $10.

GO TRICK OR TREAT: Come to Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge on Friday, Oct. 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. for trick or treating.

It is free and open to the public.

BAYSTATEPARENT 29

science, engineering and technology. Explore the nano in your everyday life and discover the special and unexpected properties found at the nanoscale. Sponsored by Genzyme. 2 to 4:30 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

MELTDOWN WARNING: Before you pack up the mini-van, please confirm your destination. Although we’ve done our best to assure accuracy at press time, things can and do change…

30 OCTOBER2013 31

photo courtesy of edaville usa

Adult Child Youth Member Non-Member Per Person

oh, the places you’ ll go

A C Y M NM PP

Don’t miss Pumpkins Aglow at Edaville in Carver for three weeks of Halloween fun including carved Jack-o-Lanterns, amusement rides and ride the train.

Ongoing from Oct. 9 through Oct. 27.

1 tuesday Peep: Rolling Down a Ramp. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Visit the museum and discover the science of ramps. Using different objects and plenty of curiosity we’ll find ways to test what makes things go faster and slower. © 2013 WGBH Educational Foundation. Sponsored by Hologic and MEFA’s U.Fund and Fidelity Investments. 10 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Try It Out Tuesday. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. What’s it going to be? Provide your expert opinion and help us prototype a new idea, program, or exhibit component. Participate in shaping our future programs and spaces! Sponsored

by Genzyme. 2 to 4:30 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

ONGOING Cool Globes: Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet. The Boston Common, Boston. The exhibit features dozens of 5-foot in diameter globes designed by artists from around the world, including acclaimed Boston sculptors Nancy Schon and David Phillips. Each globe portrays a solution to climate change. The globes will primarily be on display in the Boston Common and the Esplanade, in addition to various locations throughout the city, such as Copley Plaza, the John Hancock Tower and Fenway Park.

Daily 10 a.m. to midnight. Ongoing through Oct. 15.

Coolglobes.org.

ONGOING Fall Restaurant Week. Participating restaurants, Nantucket. Experience exceptional food, wine and Nantucket hospitality in many of the island’s acclaimed culinary establishments.

Three course dinners offered from $25 - $45 make

these culinary events not to be missed. Ongoing through Sunday, Oct. 6. For more information, visit nantucketrestaurantweek.com.

ONGOING DinoTracks. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. The hunt for dinosaurs begins! Step into their footprints, hear and feel their footsteps, and come face-to-face with some of the dinosaurs who made them. DinoTracks starts where scientists first began studying dinosaurs (at their feet). Focusing on fossil discoveries, the exhibit engages visitors of all ages in trying out hands-on scientific study methods and getting down on the ground to put their new skills to work. DinoTracks is a please-touch exhibit presented in three languages: English, Spanish and French. ecotarium.org.

ONGOING Science + You. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Designed as a reallife – but child-sized – laboratory, Science + You allows children to explore how scientists impact health and wellness. Through interactive machinery, processes and technology, Science + You opens a window into the world of the research scientist and, through fun activities, shows how science keeps our bodies healthy. So, put on your lab coat and join in for a fascinating, hands-on journey through the laboratory! 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.daily. Free with museum admission. Ongoing through April 2014. ecotarium.org.

2 wednesday Exploring Nano: The Smallest Science. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Join in for hands-on educational activities about nanoscale

ONGOING The Jungle Book. Huntington Theatre Company, 264 Huntington Ave., Boston. From the imagination of Tony Award winner Mary Zimmerman (Candide) comes a captivating new musical adaptation of a timeless favorite. The jungle springs to life in a kaleidoscopic song-and-dance-filled production that chronicles young Mowgli’s adventures growing up in the animal kingdom. Based on Rudyard Kipling’s time-honored tales and featuring music from the classic Disney film (including “I Wanna Be Like You” and “The Bare Necessities”), this ravishing world premiere will enchant audiences of all ages. Ongoing through Oct. 13. Tickets start at $25. huntingtontheatre.org.

CastleKids StoryHour. Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. From damsels in distress to mighty dragons, join in on the first Wednesday of every month and share tales of adventure, from well-known fairy tales to modern picture books in the setting of our medieval Great Hall. Great for ages 3 to 5. $12 for adult w/ one child ($8 for museum members). Includes admission, program with craft related to the story and a snack. higgins.org.

Preschool & Toddler Wednesdays. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Join in every week for our special preschool and toddler program. Enjoy a story, meet a live animal and get creative with a supervised craft activity -- all geared especially for little ones aged 3 and under.

These preschool and toddler programs are very popular and space is limited. So, while they are free with admission, tickets are issued at the Ticket & Information Desk on a first-come, first-served basis.

Please note that these programs are designed for families. 10:30 a.m. ecotarium.org.

3 thursday Make A MESS: Sock Puppets. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Cut, design, glue, and imagine! What characteristics and attributes will your sock puppet have? Use our special selection of tools and materials to create a character that we can create a story about, and then share during story time. The Make a MESS (Math, Engineering, Science, & Stuff) program series introduces STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) concepts through exploration, imagination, and fun. Funded

by The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation. 10 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Thursday’s Tales – Sock Puppet Stories. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Join in for the weekly story time. They’ll share the sock puppet characters and adventures that were created in the Make A Mess morning session along with some favorite books. 11 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Children of all ages are invited to come and enjoy a story, complimentary mini-cookie and mini-milk at Panera Bread located at 321 Arsenal St., Watertown. In partnership with the Watertown Free Public Library.

Monthly every first Thursday until Dec. 5. 10:15 a.m. Preregistration required.

Watertowntownlib.org/panera-bread-story-time.

Thursday Plymouth Farmers’ Market.

Plimoth Plantation, 137 Warren Ave., Plymouth.

It’s Plymouth Farmers’ Market’s 10th outdoor season and calling Plimoth Plantation home again this summer. The traditional cowbell will open the original Plymouth market from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. each Thursday through October on the grassy field adjacent to the River Street museum entrance, rain or shine. plymouthfarmersmarket.org.

Budding Scientists: Clouds. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Curious little explorers conduct simple, safe, science and nature experiments in the EcoTarium’s Budding Scientists program. Held on the first Thursday of every month, you and your child will learn basic scientific principles while having fun with hands-on activities.

There are two identical sessions each month.

Please pick up a ticket for your session at the Information Desk when you arrive at the museum. Limited to first 10 adult-child pairs per session. ecotarium.org.

Speaker Series: David Hildebrand. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge. Early American music historian David Hildebrand will talk about the creation of the national anthem and explain how the 1812 Battle of Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to write the lyrics to the Star-Spangled Banner.

He will explain how music and poetry became musical expressions of patriotism during and after the War of 1812, illustrating his points with slides and music, and he will answer audience questions. Tickets are $10 per person, $8 OSV members. 6 p.m. osv.org.

4 friday

FREE Kids Protection Workshop. 761 Boston Post Rd., Sudbury. Do you know what would happen to your child if something unexpected happened to you? Atty. David Feakes will present an informative workshop for parents to help them understand guardianship, inheritance, the court process, and how to avoid six mistakes commonly made when drawing up a will. The goal is for your children never to spend one moment in the care of strangers and for your funds to be immediately available to take care of them. There will be time available for questions.

Registration required. 7 to 8:30 p.m. For more information, call 978-287-0221 or email lmatthews@jri.org. firstconnections.org.

ONGOING Story Time, Milk and Cookies.

Panera Bread, 321 Arsenal St., Watertown.

FREE First Friday Nights. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Join in with free admission and explore the museums at night on the first Friday of every month! They will gratefully accept donations for the Acton Food Pantry. Sponsored in part by Emerson Hospital with additional support from and the Local Cultural Councils of Acton-Boxborough, Billerica, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Harvard, Hudson, Leominster, Lexington, Littleton, Maynard, Waltham, Wayland, and Westford. 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Both museums open. discoverymuseums.org.

Meet the Scientists! The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. What’s it like to be a scientist?

Find out in this special program when you talk to real scientists and do hands-on activities that they’ve developed. Discover why they find science cool and exciting while learning about their research and interests in chemistry, biology, physics, and more. This event is led by scientists participating in our Portal to the Public program. 6 to 8 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Egg Collecting Cow Milking Pony Rides Children’s Activities Hiking

Family Farm Vacations!

HarvestFest, October 18-20 Step Back in Time, November 1-3 Veteran’s Day, November 8-11 Thanksgiving, November 27-December 1 Fall Family Farm Day November 11

photo courtesy of the puppet showplace theatre

ONGOING Lego Club. Fitchburg Public Library, 610 Main St., Fitchburg. Create and build using the Lego Blocks that we provide. Don’t bring your own unless you are prepared to leave them.

Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Weekly on Thursdays until Aug. 1. For more information, call 978-8291789 or email fplref@cwmars.org.

Sleeping Beauty is playing at the Puppet Showplace Theatre in Brookline from Friday, Oct. 11 through Monday, Oct. 14. For more information, visit puppetshowplace.org.

Jack and the Beanstalk. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Can beans make wishes come true? When Jack trades the family cow for a few magic beans -- which grow into a beanstalk overnight -- he climbs it to find adventure and fortune. Along the way he meets a feisty and funny chicken, a magic singing harp, and one real rat of a giant. This popular classic features beautifully crafted hand and rod puppets, colorful scenic design, special effects, and an original script in which Jack, with the help of a clever chicken, saves the day! Tickets are $12. puppetshowplacetheatre.org.

5 saturday Who’s Watching You? Owls of the World.

The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

Have you ever seen a live owl up close? Join

naturalist Marcia Wilson and photographer Mark Wilson in sharing their passion for owls!

Learn about field marks, signs and naturalist’s skills that you can use to find wild owls without disturbing them, and meet six live owls up close.

Everyone is treated to a hooting lesson, as well as tips on how to attract and protect owls near you. 1 p.m. This “All About Animals” program is sponsored by the Rosemary Davis Memorial Fund. discoverymuseums.org.

The Cape Cod Food Truck Festival.

Barnstable Fairgrounds, Barnstable. Twenty gourmet food trucks gather here to serve an endless menu of everything from grilled cheese to cupcakes. Trucks will serve sample-size portions and full meals. Kid’s activities, plenty of samplings, and live entertainment. 11 a.m. to 5 pm. Tickets $7 in advance, $10 on the day. foodtruckfestivalsofne.com.

FREE! 3 $ $

Souvenir Cup of Animal Feed.

Expires 10/31/13.

Not Valid with offer Discounts or Packages. BSP10

Create lasting family memories.

Reconnect with your family.

Enjoy an authentic farm experience.

Your year-round farm family vacation resort located less than 2 hours from Boston!

Indoor Pool

Farm Animals

Hiking

Arts-n-Crafts

Baby Animals

©2013 Davis Farmland

DFL BSP10 COUPON 4.875X2.875 9-15-13.indd 1

BAYSTATEPARENT 30 31 9/15/13 9:49 PM

oh, the places you’ ll go Who’s Bad: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Tribute Band. The Wilbur Theatre, 246 Tremont St., Boston. Who’s Bad’s power-packed tribute to Michael Jackson has ignited crowds on every continent and can only be described as a jawdropping, musical must-see. Tickets start at $22. boston-theater.com.

Mike the Bubble Man. American Repertory Theater at Oberon, 2 Arrow St., Cambridge.

Mike the Bubble Man brings magic and science to the stage with this interactive 45-minute indoor show about bubbles! Through music, choreography and comedy, bubbles—in all different shapes and sizes—come alive, sparking imagination and wonder. Exploring science through bubbles creates an entertaining learning environment that introduces shapes, color, and chemistry. A love for bubbles is never outgrown—especially when there’s a chance to see the world from inside of one! Tickets $10-$30 for a family of four. americanrepertorytheater.org.

ONGOING National Cranberry Festival.

Edaville, 5 Pine St., Carver. Edaville’s annual National Cranberry Festival is back by popular demand. Featuring all things cranberry, this two-day event offers excitement and education for the whole family. An artists’ marketplace of handmade goods and seasonal delights will

beckon you. Enjoy live music, dog agility, Irish step dancing, and giant bubble play. Get up close with the cranberry in its natural environment, and then get in depth with its history in our oneof-a-kind Cranberry World Museum. Helicopter rides, pony rides, and much more. Ongoing through Oct. 6; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. edaville.com.

Hopkinton PTA Carnival. Town Common, Hopkinton. This year’s carnival will feature inflatable fun, carnival games and prizes, pony rides, face painting, arts and crafts, a bake sale and so much more! Also look for exciting raffles, including an iPad mini. The carnival will take place on the town common, weather permitting, or at the Hopkinton YMCA, in the event of inclement weather. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. hptaonline.com.

Heifer International Global Harvest Festival. 261 Wachusett St., Rutland. Hands-on family activities & crafts in a must-be-seen Global Village. Pumpkins, hayride, food, workshops and more! Other hands-on activities like churning butter, roasting coffee, and digging potatoes will be on-going throughout the day. You can also hop on a hay ride to our pumpkin patch, eat a delicious, farm-fresh lunch, or bring your own picnic. Face painting, potato sack races, scavenger hunts and more family-fun activities and crafts are packed into this globally themed and one-of-a-kind fall festival. Admission is only $10 per vehicle, so guests are encouraged to fill a whole bus load!

Rain or shine. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. heifer.org.

ONGOING Apple Days. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge. Old Sturbridge Village hosts a weekend of events related to harvesting, preserving, and cooking this quintessential New England fruit. Activities include heirloom apple tastings, an apple pie baking contest for OSV Members, cider mill demonstrations, press-your-own-cider activities, crafts, and other apple-themed fun. Ongoing through Oct. 6. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. osv.org.

Friends’ Day. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge. Old Sturbridge Village’s day of recognition of and appreciation for you, members during Apple Days is here. In addition to special programs, all Members attending Friends’ Day will receive two admission passes to share with friends on future visits. osv.org.

6 sunday FREE Boston Local Food Festival. Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston. New England’s largest one-day farmers market and premier food event promoting the joys and benefits of eating local food. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit bostonlocalfoodfestival.com.

FREE Drop into Art. Danforth Art, 123 Union Ave., Framingham. Begin your visit exploring works of art through hands-on activities with our

p!

Barnyard Jum

Teen and Adult Docents in the Children’s Gallery and other exhibits. Next, visit the studios to create art of your own inspired by what you saw in the galleries. Different projects are offered each month in a variety of media, such as paint, charcoal, collage and found objects. 2 to 4 p.m. danforthart.org/firstsundayactivities.html.

Billingsgate Corn Maze & Farm Attractions.

Billingsgate Farm, 6 County Rd., Plympton. Be prepared to get lost on a fantastic adventure.

Inside our 3-acre Maize Quest® Corn Maze, you will find twisting pathways, questions and answers, and picture rubbings. It’s a maze, it’s a game, it’s educational, and it’s FUN! Spend quality time together with your family, friends, or group sharing experiences. The maze is the ultimate experience because you are lost and must work through the challenge together. This will allow you to share the victory together. Open 7 Days a Week! Monday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Also, don’t miss out on our special Flashlight Nights in the maze! billingsgatefarm.com.

Family Fiesta. Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards St., Springfield. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with fun activities, an appearance by everyone’s favorite girl explorer and music with a Latin Beat by Surcari. Free with museum admission. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. springfieldmuseums.org.

Family Concert - Heroes & Superheroes.

Boston Civic Symphony, Fine Arts Center-Regis

5 acre Corn M aze!

Full Moon Flashlight Night Maze October 18 & 19

Adventu

re Farm

e Golf!

Miniatur

“Family Fun Down on the Farm”

• Barnyard Jump, pedal karts, wagon rides and so much more!

• School Fall field trips For hours, pick your own pumpkin patch info and directions visit westendcreamery.com

481 Purgatory Rd., Whitinsville, MA, 508-234-2022 WestEndCreamery.com 32 OCTOBER2013 33

College, 235 Wellesley Ave., Weston. Join the Boston Civic Symphony, Max Hobart, conductor for a family concert featuring music from “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “The Lone Ranger,” “Spider Man,” “Superman,” and much more!

Children can come dressed as their favorite superhero. WBZ radio personality Jordan Rich will narrate two children’s classics, “Tubby the Tuba,” and “Peter and the Wolf.” Sixteen year old cellist Ju Hyun Lee will be the soloist. An instrument petting zoo will precede the concert. All this, plus free refreshments! Tickets are $10. csob.org.

7 monday Art and Seek: Hugging trees, playing with leaves. Museum of American Bird Art, 963 Washington St., Canton. A drop-in program for ages 2.5 to 5 with an adult (siblings welcome).

Each week is a different theme and will include a story, nature exploration, and art project. When the weather is nice we will spend time outside. $5m/$7nm per child/adult pair. 10 to 11 a.m. massaudubon.org.

8 tuesday Try It Out Tuesday. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. What’s it going to be?

Provide your expert opinion and help us prototype a new idea, program, or exhibit

component. Participate in shaping our future programs and spaces! Sponsored by Genzyme. 2 to 4:30 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Reaction Station: Adventures for Young Chemists. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Imagine yourself a chemist and use real laboratory tools to do experiments. Try your hand at doing wet chemistry in a model glove box and learn why some chemists use glove boxes and hoods. 2 to 4:30 p.m. Reaction Station is generously funded by the Camille & Henry Dreyfus Foundation. discoverymuseums.org.

FREE 6-Week First-time Moms Group.

First Connections, 111 ORNAC, Concord. This facilitated group focuses on issues that are unique to becoming a mother for the first time. The same moms attend each group, with a different discussion topic and handouts each week, including: adjusting to your new role as a mother, infant care concerns, making the return-to-work or stay-at-home mom decision, changes in your relationships, and connecting to your community.

Limited to 10 moms. Please register in advance.

Held on the Emerson Hospital campus. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. firstconnections.org.

9 wednesday ONGOING Pumpkins Aglow! Edaville USA, 5 Pine St., Carver. Three weeks of Halloween fun

at Edaville featuring an enchanted stroll through a garden of artfully carved jack-o’-lanterns, complete with atmospheric music and professional lighting. Ride the train, enjoy unlimited use of all amusement rides, and celebrate Halloween in a fun yet safe environment. Wednesday through Sundays, 4 to 9 p.m. edaville.com.

ONGOING Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus: DRAGONS. DCU Center, 50 Foster St., Worcester. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents DRAGONS is a once in a millennium event that celebrates The Year of the Dragon. Circus performers from the farthest reaches of the earth have assembled for Ringling Bros. Presents DRAGONS to showcase their astounding acts of bravery and astonishing athleticism. Ringling Bros.® Ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson presides over this fantastical celebratory tournament of circus champions that brings together mystic dragon lore with authentic circus feats. Ongoing through Oct. 14. For more information, visit ringling.com.

10 thursday

Pets and Their People. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Join in as staff members from Buddy Dog Humane Society, Especially for Pets and Tucker’d Out Pet Services share their adopted pets. Meet a few friendly, furry animals while learning some basics about

oh, the places you’ ll go responsible pet ownership and animal safety. 10 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Thursday’s Tales – Pets & Animals. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Join in for the weekly story time. They’ll read some of their favorite books about animals. 11 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Discovering the Archaeology of Pine Hawk. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Native Americans lived along the Assabet River in Acton more than 7,000 years ago. See replicas of the artifacts and stone tool flakes recently uncovered by archaeologist at the Pine Hawk site. Watch archaeologist Craig Chartier demonstrate the art and science of stone knapping as he creates tools and arrowheads. Try several hands-on activities to learn about techniques that archaeologists use to uncover and interpret important clues to the past. 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Sponsored by Genzyme. discoverymuseums.org.

11 friday Imagimotion Kidz: Turtles and Pond Life. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Come join the fun as kids dance, move and groove with Imagimotion Kidz. Today,

THE HOBBIT

Tolkein’s epic fantasy adventure Oct 25 - Nov 24

Tricks and treats for all kids in costume Train and unlimited amusement rides included Fun for the whole family!

Tickets: $15 - $35 617-879-2300 • tickets@wheelock.edu www.wheelockfamilytheatre.org

Online Special $5 OFF Wed.-Fri. $2 OFF Sat. & Sun. Use code “BSP” Tickets on sale now! www,Edaville.com (508) 866-8190

Classes and workshops for kids and teens A professional theatre located on the campus of Wheelock College in Boston’s Fenway Cultural District

www.WheelockFamilyTheatre.org BAYSTATEPARENT 32 33

photo courtesy of newburyport chamber of commerce

12 saturday 13 sunday

Don’t miss Newburyport’s Fall Harvest Festival from Sunday, Oct. 13 through Monday, Oct. 14 in Downtown Newburyport. This event is free and open to the public.

they will be inspired by turtles and pond life.

Imagimotion Kidz is a developmentally based creative movement program which has been stretching children’s imaginations through movement and music for over 20 years. 10 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

FETCH! Potion Commotion. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Water and oil don’t mix. But watch what happens when you factor in the fizz. Double, double, toil and trouble! © 2013 WGBH Educational Foundation. 2 to 4:30 p.m. Sponsored by Genzyme. discoverymuseums.org.

ONGOING Sleeping Beauty. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station Street, Brookline.

National Marionette Theatre is one of the oldest continually running marionette theaters in the United States. Founded in 1967 by artistic

director David A. Syrotiak, this award-winning company has been entertaining audiences around the world with their extraordinary productions for over forty years. Ongoing through Oct. 14. For more information, visit puppetshowplace.org.

ONGOING Driving Our Dreams Family Discovery Gallery. Heritage Museums and Gardens, 67 Grove St., Sandwich. Part of the “Driving Our Dreams: Imagination in Motion” exhibit at the Heritage Museum and Gardens, the Arbella Insurance Foundation Family Discovery Room will encourage children and adults to design their own concept cars, build miniature vehicles using an assortment of wooden parts, and test them for speed on a giant ramp. Plus, the gallery walls will be covered with blackboard paint, encouraging visitors to share their thoughts and ideas related to automobiles and transportation.

Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ongoing through Oct. 27.

Heritagemuseumsandgardens.org.

As Featured on “Chronicle” Fall s Serie

www.BayStateSkatingSchool.org Non-Profit 34 OCTOBER2013 35

Brookline Cambridge Medford Newton/Brighton Quincy Somerville South Boston Waltham West Roxbury Weymouth

Make a MESS: Paint Forensics. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. What, or who, made such interesting patterns? How did the paint splatter get so…splatty? Use your detective skills to observe some unique artwork, and then use a variety of tools and colors to recreate the scene. They’ll provide the evidence, you be the image investigator! 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Make a MESS (Math, Engineering, Science, & Stuff) program series introduces STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) concepts through exploration, imagination, and fun. Funded by The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation. discoverymuseums.org.

ONGOING Harvest Weekend. Fruitlands Museum, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. FREE with museum admission Celebrate the season with a variety of hands-on activities! Learn how to throw a Native American atl-atl, create cornhusk dolls and learn how to can and preserve the fall harvest with jams and jellies. Apple pie maven, Eileen Kronauer, will be on hand on Sunday to share her secrets for making the best apple pie and the Nashoba Valley Weaver’s Guild will have several types of looms for you to try your hand at! Ongoing through Oct. 13. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. fruitlands.org.

Take a Closer Look: Building the Small House. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge. Join OSV staff for a look at the making of the Small House, including insights into the archeological and architectural research that went into the construction of the building. 10 a.m. Members only. osv.org.

ONGOING Saturday Families @ WAM Tour & Make Art! Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury St., Worcester. Explore the museum galleries with your family on a docent-guided discovery tour. Hear fun facts, stories and enjoy sharing observations and time together. Tours last approximately 30 minutes. Free for children 17 and under; free for adults with museum admission; Admission free for all the first Saturday of each month between 10 a.m. to noon. Free with museum admission. worcesterart.org.

Exploring Nano: The Smallest Science.

The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

Join in for hands-on educational activities about nanoscale science, engineering and technology.

Explore the nano in your everyday life and discover the special and unexpected properties found at the nanoscale. Sponsored by Genzyme.

1 to 4 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

FREE & ONGOING Newburyport’s Fall Harvest Festival. Downtown Newburyport, 1 Market Square, Newburyport. Held Sunday & Monday of Columbus Day weekend, enjoy great live music, art, fine crafts, food from Newburyport’s best restaurants! Ongoing through Oct. 14. Business.newburyportchamber.org.

Parent Support Group. 44 Park Ave., Whitman. Parent support group for families of children with diagnosis like ADHD, anxiety, bi-polar, Aspergers, OCD, ADD, eating and learning disorders, and others. Run by licensed therapist, the group provides support, reources, companionship and a place to experience hope. It is open and free to anyone. allsantswhitman.com.

14 monday Caretaker for A Day. Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Rd., Lincoln. Have you ever been the sous-chef for a rabbit? What would a cow custodian’s or a mouse maid’s duties entail? If you are interested in animals and their care, join in for a day of chores ‘behindthe-scenes.’ This hands-on day of feeding, cleaning and observation will give you an opportunity to experience and understand the work of a livestock farmer and a wildlife care specialist. 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Children are $55m/$65nm. Suitable for children 10 to 14 years. massaudubon.org.

15 tuesday

Peep Science Adventures: Looking Closely.

The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

The Willard House & Clock Museum North Grafton, MA

October 6-November 17, 2013 Wednesday through Sunday, 10-4

Experience an unprecedented exhibit of nearly three dozen early American musical and chiming clocks. These mechanical marvels will afford the visitor an opportunity to hear the popular music of our ancestors, just as it was played two hundred years ago.

Made prior to 1830 and housed in the finest early American cabinetry, some have been silent for decades and never exhibited to the public.

This project will culminate in two books on early American musical clocks and their music. An exhibit catalog will be available. www.willardhouse.org • 11 Willard St., N. Grafton, MA • 508-839-3500 Guest Curators Gary R. Sullivan, Katie Van Winkle Keller

Try It Out Tuesday. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. What’s it going to be?

Provide your expert opinion and help us prototype a new idea, program, or exhibit component. Participate in shaping our future programs and spaces! Sponsored by Genzyme. discoverymuseums.org. 2 to 4:30 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

ONGOING Zoo Boo Days Trick or Treat.

Southwick’s Zoo, 2 Southwick St., Mendon.

Children 3-12 get free admission with costume.

Ongoing through Oct. 27. southwickszoo.com.

16 wednesday FETCH! Potion Commotion. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Water and oil don’t mix. But watch what happens when you factor in the fizz. Double, double, toil and trouble! © 2013 WGBH Educational Foundation. Sponsored by Genzyme. Drop-in 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey DRAGONS. TD Garden, Causeway St., Boston.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents DRAGONS is a once in a millennium event that celebrates The Year of the Dragon. Circus performers from the farthest reaches of the earth have assembled for Ringling Bros. Presents DRAGONS to showcase their astounding acts of bravery and astonishing athleticism. Tickets start at $25. ringling.com.

amazing and spectacular! Explore textures and colors while making a beautiful work of art using sponges to take your home with a special message for mom about staying healthy and strong. Sponsored by Hologic.

10 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Thursday’s Tales – All About Mom. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

Join in for our weekly story time. Today they’ll read some stories about amazing moms! 11 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Take Aparts. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Are you curious about what’s inside telephones and computers?

Discover resistors and capacitors as you uncover the inner workings of everyday objects. Sponsored by Analog Devices, Inc. 2 to 4:30 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

The Busy Tree. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. If you are between the ages of 3 and 5, bring your favorite adult for a thematic hour of a story, an activity, and a naturalist-led walk. Choose from the third Wednesday, Thursday, or Saturday of each month. Registration is required. 10 to 11 a.m. $3C/m, $4C/nm, Adults free. massaudubon.org.

18 friday

Witches Night Out. Downtown Newburyport, Newburyport. From 6 to 9 p.m., the streets of downtown Newburyport and the Tannery will be filled with Witches, warlocks and other Halloween type characters for Witches Night Out. This adult friendly event is a Halloween type invitation night coupled with merchant hospitality, seasonal Halloween treats, shopping and more! Attendees are urged to come in costume appropriate for the season - a witch, warlock, ghost - use your imagination! business.newburyportchamber.org.

17 thursday 19 saturday Moms Rock! Sponge Painting. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Moms—and grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and others—are

Discovery Day: Harvest Hullabaloo. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

photo courtesy of hanover theatre

Using magnifying glasses we will take a closer look at some everyday objects. What kinds of details will we notice when we observe them in a different way? © 2013 WGBH Educational Foundation.Sponsored by Hologic and MEFA’s U.Fund and Fidelity Investments. 10 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Come to Jim Henson’s Dinosaur Train Live! Buddy’s Big Adventure on Sunday, Oct. 20 at the Hanover Theatre in Worcester.

Tickets start at $29.

Ongoing activities throughout the day including Autumn Landscapes, Pumpkin Science, Gourd Games, Songs and Stories by the Campfire. For more information, visit discoverymuseums.org.

FREE Especially for Me! Free Evening for Families with Children on the Autism Spectrum. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Come join in all the fun and explore both museums during this special free evening for families with children on the autism spectrum.

Visitors may also drop-in for a workshop with Romy Wilhelm, a practicing music therapist from Indian Hill Music. Many studies have shown that music therapy is an effective tool for reaching this population, as it engages and fosters their capacity for flexibility, creativity, variability, and tolerance of change. Pre-registration required.

5:30 to 8:30 p.m. To register, visit tinyurl.com/ EspeciallyforMe2013-11.

Harvest Fair. Applewild School, 120 Prospect St., Fitchburg. Everyone is welcome at Applewild School’s Harvest Fair. Games, inflatables, raffle gift baskets, food, food, food. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. applewild.org.

FREE Newburyport’s Great Pumpkin Lighting & Stroll. Downtown Newburyport, 1 Market Square, Newburyport. This annual family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, October 19th, 2013 from 6 to 9 p.m. in Market Square. Families are encouraged and invited to bring a carved pumpkin that will be lit and placed on the stage in Market Square for all to enjoy!

Each family will receive a votive candle that will be lit all at once at dusk - approximately 6:15 p.m. After the lighting, attendees are encouraged to stroll the downtown and Tannery to “ooh and ahh” at all the pumpkins designed by local businesses! At the end of the evening families

baystateparent

HAS A NEW NEST! find us at

22 West St., Millbury, MA 01527

508-865-7070 For Sales, Contact Regina

regina@baystateparent.com BAYSTATEPARENT 34 35

spooktacular science programs, entertainers, and so much more! Event is held rain or shine. noon to 9 p.m. $15 per person, $12 for EcoTarium members. ecotarium.org.

oh, the places you’ ll go are asked to take their pumpkins home for safe keeping. business.newburyportchamber.org.

Applefest. Wachusett Mountain, 499 Mountain Rd., Princeton. Wachusett’s most popular fall festival, AppleFest features over 75 craft and farmers’ market booths, chainsaw carving demonstrations, a mountainside BBQ, pony and hay rides and a number of children’s performers.

And no fall festival would be complete without German Oktoberfest events, authentic German cuisine, a multitude of tasty beers in the beer garden, and live music. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. wachusett.com.

PumpkinFest Fundraiser for Clapboardtree Nursery School. First Parish Meeting Hall, 340 Clapboardtree St., Westwood. PumpkinFest will feature Baby Farm Animal Visits, Family Music Makers, bouncy houses, an inflatable obstacle course, games, prizes, crafts, a silent auction, a bake sale, lunch, and of course a pumpkin patch. Don’t miss this fun-filled day for the whole family. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. clapboardtree.com.

Great Pumpkin Fest. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Join in for the EcoTarium’s 10th annual Great Pumpkin Fest, featuring hundreds of carved pumpkins (illuminated after dark), free hay and train rides, free planetarium shows,

20 sunday Slingshots and Catapults Workshop.

Barefoot Books Flagship Store – Concord, 89 Thoreau St., Concord. Families with kids ages 4-13 can construct and test giant slingshots and experiment with catapult designs, led by museum educators. Each family can take their giant slingshot and catapults home to continue the fun.

2:30 to 4 p.m. $25 per family for members, $30 per family for non-members.

Jim Henson’s Dinosaur Train Live! Buddy’s Big Adventure. The Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester. Come join Buddy, Tiny, Shiny, Don and all of their friends and family in this upbeat interactive, multi-media live trip back to the Mesozoic! DINOSAUR TRAIN LIVE! BUDDY’S BIG ADVENTURE takes the whole family back in time to an age when dinosaurs roamed the earth....and rode in trains! From giant Laura to teeny Tiny, all of our friends will be brought to life in an exciting, original, musical story created just for the stage where our audience is always a part of the show. Tickets start at $29. thehanovertheatre.org.

Divorce Mediation If you can’t save your marriage, you can save your divorce.

Divorce can be expensive...

Mediation allows you to save time and emotional energy.

Protect your rights while preserving your family’s resources. certifieD by: AAML since 1991, Norfzeiger Institute since 1981 eDucation: St. Bernard High School, Assumption College, University of Paris - Sorbonne, Suffolk University Law School Languages: English, French, Spanish Articles: Divorce and the Wheel of the Addiction, Demystifying Divorce instructor: ABA family law section, MBA family law section, WBA family law section, Massachusetts Supreme Court study on Addiction and the Court, Mt. Wachusett Community College, Law Education Institute MeMber of: Fitchburg School Committee 2002-2010, Board of Directors - Montachusett Alcohol Committee, Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, Spectrum Health Services, Fay Club

95 Elm Street Worcester

Other AvAilAble ServiceS: • Flat Fees • Expedited weekend and night appointments • Limited Issues Mediation

58 Oliver Street Fitchburg

508-792-3006 978-345-2671 Since 1975 www.attyjfconnors.com James F. Connors SUPER LAWYER

36 OCTOBER2013 37

connorsesquire@gmail.com

21 monday ONGOING Knee High Naturalists 1. Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill St., Sharon. This is a drop-off program where your three-year old child can explore the wonders of Moose Hill once a week, all season long. We encourage young children to enjoy and explore the outdoors through games and other safe learning experiences and help them to establish a lasting relationship with the natural world.

Children have the freedom to play and interact with their environment under the guidance of trained staff. $228C/m, $293C/nm. Registration is required. massaudubon.org.

22 tuesday Try It Out Tuesday. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. What’s it going to be? Provide your expert opinion and help us prototype a new idea, program, or exhibit component. Participate in shaping our future programs and spaces! 10 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Celebrate National Chemistry Week!

The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

Discover the wonders of chemistry as we celebrate National Chemistry Week. Join us

for some fun, hands-on activities around this year’s theme Energy: Now and Forever! Explore the different ways we get and use energy in our everyday life – from solar power, to wind power and beyond. Get energized about chemistry! Sponsored by Genzyme. 2 to 4:30 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

23 wednesday Celebrate National Chemistry Week!

The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

Discover the wonders of chemistry as we celebrate National Chemistry Week. Join us for some fun, hands-on activities around this year’s theme Energy: Now and Forever! Explore the different ways we get and use energy in our everyday life – from solar power, to wind power and beyond. Get energized about chemistry! Sponsored by Genzyme. Drop-in 2 to 4:30 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

“Whose Story is it Anyway?” For Adoptive Parents. First Connections, 111 ORNAC, Concord. There are facilitated discussion about using pictures, books and toys to begin the conversation with your child about their adoption. Geared towards parents of children age 0-5. Childcare provided during discussion if needed. If interested in attending, send your contact information to lmatthews@jri.org. This

24 thursday Moms Rock: Nature’s Paintbrush. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

Moms—and grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and others—are amazing and spectacular! Explore shapes and colors while making a beautiful work of art using flowers as a brush to take home with a special message for mom about staying healthy and strong. Sponsored by Hologic. 10 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Thursday’s Tales – Fabulous Fall. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Join in for the weekly story time. Today they’ll share some stories about nature during this beautiful fall season. 11 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Celebrate National Chemistry Week!

The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

Discover the wonders of chemistry as we celebrate National Chemistry Week. Join us for some fun, hands-on activities around this year’s theme Energy: Now and Forever! Explore the

different ways we get and use energy in our everyday life – from solar power, to wind power and beyond. Sponsored by Genzyme. 2 to 4:30 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

25 friday

Imagimotion Kidz: Trains and Things with Wheels. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Come join the fun as kids can dance, move, and groove with Imagimotion Kidz. Today, you will be inspired by trains and things with wheels. Imagimotion Kidz is a developmentally based creative movement program which has been stretching children’s imaginations through movement and music for over 20 years. 10 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

ONGOING The Hobbit. Wheelock Family Theatre, 200 The Riverway, Boston. Based on the novel by J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit follows the quest of homebody Bilbo Baggins to win a share of golden treasure guarded by a terrifying dragon. By embracing the adventurous side of his nature and applying his wits and common sense, Bilbo gains a new level of maturity and wisdom.

Ongoing through Nov. 24. Tickets start at $20. wheelockfamilytheatre.org.

The Yankee Peddler. Puppet Showplace Theatre, 32 Station St., Brookline. Ever wanted to sing along with a sea shanty? Or dive deep into a fox’s den? Then join in for a whirlwind tour of

Murder Mystery Dinner Theater “Tessie and Tommy’s Rehearsal Dinner.” Salem Cross Inn, 260 West Main St., West Brookfield.

Tessie and Tommy are getting married and we hope that you will be joining us for the special rehearsal dinner the evening before the long awaited marriage. The only problem is, the parents of the bride and the groom are not as thrilled with the union as the love birds are. The tensions the parents bring to this dinner can only spell trouble for the loving couple. Show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $53 per person including tax and gratuity. salemcrossinn.com.

New England’s lesser-known folklore where you’ll discover a giant sailor, a fashionable bear, and the world’s largest wheel of cheese. Drawing from three hundred years of stories, songs, and local history, this show is a delight for audiences of all ages. Puppetshowplace.org.

ONGOING Halloween Family Fun Nights.

Heritage Museum & Gardens. 67 Grove St., Sandwich. Enjoy family-friendly Halloween activities designed for children of all ages.

Activities include a performance, hay rides, Hidden Hollow exploration, games, crafts and carousel rides. Friday Oct. 25 & Saturday Oct. 26 5:30 to 9 p.m. heritagemuseumsandgardens.org.

26 saturday

FREE Tricks & Treats. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge.

Trick-or-treating in the Center Village and family entertainment come together to create a unique pre-Halloween experience. Free and open to the public. 6 to 8 p.m. osv.org.

FREE Baby Sign Workshop. Harvard Public Library, 4 Pond Road, Harvard. The first form of communication with your baby is through touch. The next natural step is using gestures with your baby before he can speak. Once the vocal cords are fully developed, the final step is spoken language. Sheryl White will share with parents the benefit of using American Sign Language with your child, research on language development, and ways to teach your baby ASL signs. Each family will take home a “My First Signs” board book to help them get started. Limited to 25. Parents with or without their babies, grandparents, or other caregivers welcome.

Registration required. firstconnections.org.

Bog Fright Night. Tihonet Village, 146 Tihonet Rd., Wareham. Ride the road less traveled during our annual scary wagon rides that run through the dark forest and ghostly cranberry bogs during Bog Fright Night weekend. Reservations are very strongly recommended for this popular event.

Proceeds benefit the local non-profit groups that organize and staff the event. Ongoing through Oct. 27. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $7 in advance, $9 at night. tihonet.wordpress.com. variety of

FUn

& learning

activities

highly qualified

& caring teachers with

12

to customize your

child’s day

+average

years

experience

boroughs jcc.org

program is funded through a Mass. Dept. of Early Education and Care grant program serving all families in 12 towns with at least one child under age 9. Contact mrowlinson@jri.org for more information about our monthly post-adoption support group for parents of children over age 5.

10 to 11:30 a.m. firstconnections.org.

www.

w h at M a k e s u s u n i q u e ?

Our programs are intelligent fun! The themes, activities, crafts, classes and play are selected and designed to foster your child’s curiosity and interpersonal skills.

CheCk out our website or Call 508.366.6121 x23 for your own personal tour.

www.boroughsjcc.org

accredited

&

licensed

Toddler programs (starts at 15 months) • • • •

New full-day program (2–5 day options) Age-appropriate learning and play Mid-day lunch and nap, all snacks included Special toddler playground space

Preschool (starts at 2.9 years) Pre-K (starts at 3.9 years) K Kids (age 5 years by April 1) • Afternoon enrichment programs until 5:30pm • Age-appropriate learning, play, and curriculum with in classroom technology • Early drop-off and 2–5 day options

boroughs

JCC Preschool BAYSTATEPARENT 36 37

other children, in a safe, caring environment.

C$100/m, $125nm. massaudubon.org.

photo courtesy of the ecotarium

29 tuesday

Don’t miss Science + You at the EcoTarium in Worcester. The exhibit is on display through April 2014 and is free with museum admission.

Kids Dress-Up Costumes & Fall Coats are here!

Arts & Crafts Puzzles & Games Educational Toys Cuddly Plush for Newborns Slumber Party Activities Fall Fashions for Kids

Button Tree Kids - Tatnuck 1102 Pleasant St. Worcester, MA Fall Hours: Tue~Sat 10am-5pm Fridays Open til 6pm 508-926-8710 www.ButtonTreeKids.com info@buttontreekids.com facebook.com/ButtonTreeKidsTatnuck

38 OCTOBER2013

33rd Annual Mayo PTA Craft Fair and Fall Festival. 351 Bullard St., Holden. Centrally located in Massachusetts, this fair has always been one of the local preludes to all holiday fairs. More than 50 New England crafters will gather to sell their unique and distinctive handmade items. Raffle to feature crafts from vendors and selected donations from area merchants. Face painting, games, fall themed activities, and entertainment planned for children and families. Our cafe will feature hot foods and delicious baked goods. Free Parking. All proceeds support Mayo School PTA. 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information, call 508-829-3230 or email mayoptanews@yahoo.com.

27 sunday

ONGOING South Shore Arts and Craft Festival. South Shore Expo Center, Natalie Way, Plymouth. Admission is $7 for adults, kids under12 are free. Ongoing through Sunday, Oct. 27. Castleberyfairs.com/index.php.

Fall Nature Walk. Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton. Come investigate the sanctuary as wildlife gets ready for winter. Migrating, hibernating, new winter coat? Plants are busy too, and we will look for fall crops of nuts and seeds, late-season color, and other wonders of the woods. Registration is required. 1 to 3 p.m. A$6m/$8nm, C$3m/$4nm. massaudubon.org.

Things That Go Bump in the Night. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd., Sturbridge. A special evening of scary-but-safe fun! It includes trick or treating, storytelling, hundreds of lit pumpkins and a ‘Trail of Terror’ for daring older children. Old Sturbridge Village is the perfect setting for a family Halloween event. Come face-to-face with a haunted pumpkin patch. Trickor-treating around the Center Village. Entertainment and fun for the whole family. 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $12, children under 3 are free. osv.org.

Haunted Higgins. Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. A Spooktacular Halloween Party for the entire family.

Storytelling, trick or treating, creepy crafts, and ghouls and goblins around every corner. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. higgins.org.

Creepy Crawlies. Massaudubon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St., Natick. How do you hiss without using your mouth? Breathe without lungs or gills? Move if you don’t have legs? This program features some of the strange and creepy critters from our wild and wacky world of animals. You’ll meet tarantulas, amphibians, snakes and even some cool cockroaches!

Pre-registration required. Online registration available. 1 to 2 p.m. massaudubon.org.

28 monday

Discovering Nature as a Preschooler. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Rd., Worcester. This six-week series of nature classes is designed for young children ages 4 to 5 unaccompanied by a parent. Each week brings a new focus, but we’ll always begin indoors with games, activities, or crafts, and then explore the great outdoors on Broad Meadow Brook’s clearly marked trails. This is a wonderful opportunity for young children to learn about nature and meet

Make a MESS: Fun Formulas. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Science is all around us, even in the kitchen! What kinds of reactions will we get when we play around with mixing some common substances? 10 a.m.

The Make a MESS (Math, Engineering, Science, & Stuff) program series introduces STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) concepts through exploration, imagination, and fun. Funded by The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation. discoverymuseums.org.

30 wednesday

Spooky Science. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Join in as we use a little spooky science to create some strange substances. Whip up a batch of ooey, gooey slime or sink your hands into some odd oobleck. Is it a liquid or a solid…or both? Sponsored by Genzyme. 2 to 4:30 p.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Jolly Ol’ Jack-O-Lanterns. Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St., Mattapan. Celebrate the fall harvest and Halloween by creating your own carved pumpkin. Take part in pumpkin seed experiments and contests. Learn about the history of pumpkins, the Jack-O-Lantern story, and techniques to create spooky and silly designs.

Register a week in advance to ensure a pumpkin of your own. 6 to 8 p.m. Suitable for children 5 to 12. C$7m/$9nm. Adults free. massaudubon.org.

31 thursday HAPPY HALLOWEEN Make a MESS: Pumpkin Take Aparts.

The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton.

Have you ever really stopped to recognize all the different parts of a pumpkin? Let’s take some apart and examine and investigate the unseen contents which are hidden within. The Make a MESS (Math, Engineering, Science, & Stuff) program series introduces STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) concepts through exploration, imagination, and fun. Funded by The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation. 10 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

Thursday’s Tales – Spooky Stories.

The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Join in for our weekly story time. In celebration of Halloween we’ll ready some of our favorite spooky (but silly) stories. 11 a.m. discoverymuseums.org.

To submit an event, fill out our form at baystateparent.com By Oct. 1.

It’s all in the Bag or the Pail!

Supplies • Tacky glue • Foam sheets • Scissors • Plastic googly eyes • Fabric bag and sand pails from a local craft store

Cut shapes for the faces out of foam sheets (some sheets had sticky backs). Stick on shapes to front of sand pails and bag. Kids can use them for trick or treating, or for keeping candy in after Halloween. They can keep them year after year.

Oct 11 & 12, 2013 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

$5 Mass Audubon members $6 Non-members • $8 at the door At sundown, the sanctuary will be transformed into a magical enchanted forest.

Our resi-dent spirits, primarily native wildlife, will delight visitors young and old on this special romp through “Boo” Meadow Brook. During your walk, you will have a chance to learn about some of the most fascinating creatures of the forest.

Arrive anytime between 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. (Last tour leaves at 8:30 p.m.)

Held rain or shine. Festivities held indoors if it is raining.

Call 508-753-6087 for more information and to register!

Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary 414 Massasoit Road, Worcester, MA 01604 • bmbrook@massaudubon.org

Halloween Night Hike and Hayride

October 19, 2013 • 6 – 8 pm • Rain date: October 20 $5 members, $7 nonmembers; children $2 members, $3 nonmembers Experience the sounds of night on a guided hike through the fields and woods.

Then enjoy a hayride with friends and family.

Meet our resident vulture, do a craft and taste some goodies.

Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton, MA 01541 • 978-464-2712

www.massaudubon.org BAYSTATEPARENT 39

CAPTURED

Trick or Treat GETTING GROOVY: Abby Ganz, 11, Gavin, 9, and Casey Monteiro, of Sudbury, get ready to go trick-or-treating.

MOUSEKETEERS: Alexis, 3, and Shawn Gemme, 2, of Worcester, are huge Disney fans.

SIBLING SILLINESS: Mason, 26 months, and Madison Soohoo, 2 months, enjoy getting dressed up for Halloween.

SCARY MONSTER: Brayden Tiernan, 6, of Leominster, isn’t afraid of anything on Halloween.

CUTE AS A BUTTON: Gia Rigiero, 2, of Leicester, loves posing for pictures.

photo courtesy of sarah ashley photography

CUTE COUSINS: Mikey, Julie, Bella, Brianna and Frankie Rotondo, all of Marlborough, love dressing up for Halloween.

EGYPTIAN QUEEN: Nicky Sarmiento, 9, of Worcester, enjoys a Halloween party.

40 OCTOBER2013 41

LITTLE CREATURE: Shriram Shenoy, 26 months, of Shrewsbury, dresses up as a cute animal for Halloween.

,

FUN PARTY: Gabriela Brown, 4, Abigail DeJong, 4, Madison Brown, 7, and Emma DeJong, 6, all of Oxford, enjoyed a party at the Oxford Community Center.

ALL SMILES: Jayden, 6, and Ethan Stevens, 4, of Worcester, love dressing up as Cat in the Hat and Thomas the Train.

FAVORITES: Sean, 7, Ian, 4, and Nathan Dale, 2, get into the spirit of Halloween.

WINNIE THE POOH: Katelyn Siciliano, 2, of Lunenburg, is a big fan of Christopher Robin and his friends.

PEPE LE PEW: Ava Tuttle, 11, months, of Leominster, dresses up as a skunk.

RIBBIT ING News! book!

IE G IG P & T N A H A n ew E LEP from the New Y ork T imes bes t sell ing a uthor

Mo Wil lems!

Don’t miss Let’s Go for a Drive!, A Big Guy Took My Ball!, and all the other Elephant & Piggie books!

Mo’ Mo at

© 2013 Mo Willems

BAYSTATEPARENT 40 41

FINALLYFOREVER

Mommy, Daddy and BJ Makes THREE…

MY

husband Steve and I are the proud parents of a happy, energetic, 5-year-old boy. He has a great smile and a bubbly personality. If you ask him, he will tell you that he “loves us to the moon and back!” He is the child of our hearts. He has been our son for almost a year, and it is hard to imagine our lives without him.

The decision to build our family through adoption came out of necessity. I was born with a heart defect and at age 23 had an aortic valve replacement. The

so we turned to international adoption.

When choosing to adopt internationally you need to research your country choices and the rules and regulations for each country that you are considering. Travel requirements, ages of children available, how they match children, what type of contact you will have with your child before traveling (if any) are among the things you will have to consider and weigh before making your decision.

For example, you may find that the country you feel a great connection towards and want to adopt from not only requires you to spend a month in country,

Cindy and Steve adopted 5-year-old BJ from Taiwan in September of 2012.

surgery greatly improved my quality of life. However, the blood thinner that I must take for the rest of my life can cause birth defects. My husband and I did explore the possibility of new therapies that would allow us to attempt a pregnancy. However, after consulting with the doctors and specialists, we determined that this was not a reasonable option for us. We decided to pursue adoption.

Whatever your reason to adopt, you will need to do some research on the type of adoption you want (i.e. domestic vs. international). We began by looking at a domestic adoption. Through our research we found that this option was not going to be the best one for us. We learned that each state has their own rules and regulations regarding birth parent rights and timeframes that a birth parent can terminate the adoption. We didn’t want to have to deal with that, 42 OCTOBER2013 43

but that they do the match while you are there, which means you are there with multiple families and could possibly come home without a child. In another scenario you might need to take multiple trips to your country of choice before you can come home with your child. You might also find that the country from which you wish to adopt will not accept you as potential adoptive parents.

This initial piece of research will bring you into contact with several adoption agencies. You will need to select an agency that meets your needs in terms of country choice, process and results. It is important to keep in mind that even though all of the adoption agencies have the ultimate goal of helping couples become parents, they are not all alike. Each agency has different goals, policies, guidelines and countries with which they work. Cost may also vary from agency

to agency.

Although it doesn’t happen often, one of the scariest problems that you could encounter with international adoptions is that you could start working to adopt from a specific country and then find that the country you chose is changing their rules, and they are no longer allowing adoptions. Be sure to discuss this issue with the adoption agency you select. They are aware of the track record of the various countries and international agencies and can help you make your country choice decisions.

We felt that we could offer a stronger cultural link to a child from an Asian country than we could if we pursued other countries because Steve is a first generation Taiwanese American. After contacting several agencies that worked with various Asian countries, we found one that had a good track record for facilitating adoptions from Taiwan.

Finding an agency is the easy part. Now the work starts: paperwork and process - application forms, financial reports, home studies, interviews, medical reports, references, some sort of government paperwork, criminal background checks, fingerprinting, etc. There will be state forms, international forms, and forms that will need to be translated if you are adopting from a non-English-speaking country. Although the mountain of paperwork will cause you to wonder how and if you will ever to get through it all, rest assured: you will. When you are done and the agency is presenting you with the profile of your new child, all of the paperwork, meetings and hurdles won’t matter.

Then of course there is the waiting. It will seem like an eternity between submitting your application to the point where you are matched. As you go through this portion of the process there are a number of things that you can do to get yourself ready for the big day.

Our adoption agency required us to attend an adoption preparation seminar that gave us the opportunity to meet families that were doing domestic adoptions as well as a number of families adopting internationally. We also learned about child development, support networks, and what to expect when our child came home. The required session solidified for us that this is what we wanted to do and that we were really prepared for what was ahead of us.

You should also use this waiting time to learn about the country you are adopting from - talk to people who are from that country and others who have adopted from your country of choice, read books about the country and plan what you will do while you are in country. Search the web, but keep in mind that what you read on the Internet might not be true. In our case, Steve’s first-hand knowledge of Taiwanese/ Chinese culture was a real plus.

Decide what to do with your child’s name. Will you keep the birth name or incorporate it into his or her new name? We decided that given my husband’s

heritage and the fact that he has both an American and a Chinese name, we would do the same for our child and use his birth name as his middle name.

It is also important that when you are making this decision that you factor in your child’s age. With a younger child (infant – 2 years) this may not be as much of an issue as they may not be very attached to their birth name.

However, with an older child, as was the case with our adoption of BJ, he/ she will most likely have a stronger identification with his/her birth name.

If the child that you are adopting does not speak English, take a language class for adoptive parents. We were able to find a language tutor who taught Mandarin. Also, through an Internet search we found a CD that focused on Mandarin for adoptive families (additional languages available). The CD was great because it focused on key phrases that a parent would need for talking with a child. Also, don’t forget Google translator. It is another useful tool for easing the language transition.

At midnight, when you have a crying child, a few key phrases in their native language goes a long way. Even if you

can’t say them, hearing the words on a computer or mobile device can have a calming effect.

You will also need to determine when you will tell your family about your impending adoption. We let our family know that we were considering adoption as a way to grow our family shortly after we decided to adopt.

However, we didn’t say too much more to them about it until we knew that we had secured a referral. Even then it was only that we had been matched with a child and had some general information about him. We kept pictures to ourselves and a few key people until just before we traveled to Taiwan. We felt if we were having a biological child there would be few details available to our family until the “big day” arrived, so why should this be any different.

Once we were prepared and had done all of the proverbial homework, we were ready to receive our referral.

The day we got that phone call will always remain one of the best days of our lives. It came early one morning, as my husband and I were getting ready for work. Our adoption coordinator

read a story. To our surprise they had the same story in Mandarin (not planned). After each Skype session we felt a little closer to our son. If you have a similar opportunity we recommend that you look for and share common songs and stories that are translated into multiple languages (i.e. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” and “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star”).

We had our share of struggles with the process and sometimes felt that we were moving backwards instead of forward, but with each paperwork delay or snafu we would take a look at BJ’s photo or a saved copy of one of the Skype sessions and know that we were doing the right thing; it would all be worth it.

When we finally met our son in Taiwan in late September 2012, we knew that we were already a family!

said that the agency in Taiwan had reviewed our application, home study, letters of recommendation, etc. and had matched us with a little boy who, at the time, was 3 ½. We were overjoyed and could not wait for the day to bring him home.

Fortunately for us, the 11 month wait from acceptance of the referral until we traveled to Taiwan was made easier by getting regular updates from the agency that we were partnered with in Taiwan.

They also arranged four Skype sessions with our future son. The first time we got to see him on Skype was absolutely amazing.

Our local adoption agency suggested that we send a few care packages to him. They also recommended that we purchase duplicate toys to keep at home, thus assuring that if a specific toy we sent became a favorite and didn’t come to the U.S. with him, it would be at home waiting for him.

Christmas, Chinese New Year and his birthday provided occasions to send some clothes, toys, picture books and a teddy bear.

During our first Skype session in May of 2012 we shared the bears and

Cindy lives in Central Massachusetts with her husband Steve and their son BJ. If you have questions or would like to contact Cindy to discuss her experiences with adoption please email: dumplingstodonuts2012@gmail.com.

OCTOBER’SCHILD

Shianne

Fourteen-year-old Shianne is a joyful and easy going Caucasian girl.

She loves to spend time outdoors riding her bike. She also likes playing with her friends, dolls, stuffed animals and with her 3D DS. Shianne has an affinity for Disney movies. Teen Beach Movie is her current favorite. Shianne has developmental and emotional delays.

Her simplicity and sense of wonder of what life has to offer make her a joy to be around.

In her current foster home and school, Shianne receives the structure and positive reinforcement she

needs. She is generally happy and is easily redirected by caretakers and teachers. Shianne gets along well with other children in the home, but would also benefit from being the only child in the family.

Shianne needs a patient, loving family that will foster her innocence while helping her grow. Her worker feels that she would do best with a mother and a father, two mothers or with a single mother. Shianne has a visiting resource and siblings with whom she would need to maintain a connection. She is legally free for adoption and really wants a forever

family.

For more information on Shianne, please contact Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange WWK Recruiter Deirdre Madden at (617)-54-ADOPT. For more information about the adoption process in general, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) holds monthly informational meetings at their Worcester Office. The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 16th from 6 – 7:30 p.m. For more information about this meeting or to register please call (508) 929-2143.

CIRCLEOFFRIENDS Adoption from Foster Care Information Open House. Tuesday, Oct. 1, 4 to 6 p.m. Mass. Department of Children and Families (DCF)-Springfield, 140 High St., 5th floor, Springfield. For more information, call 413-452-3369.

Boston Adoption Informational Meetings-DCF. Wednesday, Oct. 16, 4 to 6 p.m. Mass Department of Children and Families (DCF)- Boston, 451 Blue Hill Ave., Dorchester. Learn how you can change the future of a child in need by becoming a foster or adoptive parent with

the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families. For more information, call Marsha Donovan at 617-989-9209. No registration is required.

Hospital, 9 Hope Ave., Waltham. For more information, call Karen Cheyney at 978-263-5400 or email kcheyney@ rfkchildren.org.

MAPP Training at Bright Futures Adoption Center. Saturday, Oct. 5 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.); Wednesday, Oct. 9 (6 to 9 p.m.); Saturday, Oct. 19 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ; white building conference room at RFK Children’s Action Corps, 220 Old Common Road, Lancaster). Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps, Bright Futures Adoption Center, Children’s

MAPP Training at Child & Family Services. Saturday, Oct. 5 & Saturday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Child & Family Services, 3057 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford. RSVP to Becky Baker at 508676-5708, ext. 4181.

MAPP Training at Cambridge Family & Children’s Services. Oct.

1, 5, 15, 19, 22 & 29; Tuesdays 6 to 9 p.m; Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cambridge Family & Children’s Services, 60 Gore St., Cambridge. For more information, cal Sarah Medrano-Palmer, LICSW, clinical coordinator for family services at 617-876-4210, ext. 160.

MAPP Training at Child & Family Services. Oct. 18, 19, 25, 26; Fridays 6 to 9 p.m.; Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 439 South Union St., Suite 203b, Lawrence. For more information or to register, call Kelly Desjardins at 978687-5852, ext. 234.

MAPP Training at the Home for Little Wanderers. Wednesdays Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 6 to 9 p.m. Home for Little Wanderers, 50 Redfield St., Suite 306, Dorchester. For more information, call Karin Gemeinhardt at 617-264-5368.

Please submit November’s adoption-related events by Tuesday, Oct. 1 at baystateparent.com (click calendar/submit an event).

BAYSTATEPARENT 42 43

Dance Schools There is still time to register for our Fall Season!

Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Irish Step, Hard Shoe, Pointe, Lyrical, Modern, Contemporary, Special Needs Dance, All Boys Hip Hop, Youth & Teen Ballroom, Drop Off Dance Starting at age 2...Come Dance With Us! The best directory of professionals from the Best Parenting Publication in

America.

O

ur directory is called bspADvantage because it offers our readers the distinct ADvantage of helping them make choices about extracurricular activities and hiring professionals in a clear and organized way. And it offers advertisers a cost-effective ADvantage over other advertising options, in addition to reaching our 100,000+ loyal readers across the Bay State. Get the bspADvantage today!

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Bring this ad with you at time of registration and receive first class FREE!

DNE School of Dance

51 Middlesex Street (Chelmsford Mills) North Chelmsford, Massachusetts 01810 978-251-1700 • www.dancenewengland.com

Divorce, Fa mily Law and Mediation Services

Child Care Centers and Preschools

Laurie Sherman Director

It’s important for children to have a healthy environment where they feel wanted, respected and secure. Through a developmental approach, we’ve created such a place providing daily opportunities to explore and create through varied learning activities. Our interactive and child-centered offerings take place in a very supportive environment which features 3 different classrooms designed for 12-24 months, 2-3 year olds and pre-school children. We’re also in a great location, easy on/off I-290 in Central Worcester!

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Registration fee waived with this ad.

15 Hill Street, Worcester, MA • 508-791-3100 • www.appleseedelc.com

Attorney Polly A. Tatum

Divorce Mediation with Worcester County’s Top Divorce Mediator: when it comes to the sensitive, complicated issues around family law and divorce mediation, you want a proven, compassionate expert to guide you through the process. Divorce, Child Support, Custody, Alimony, Property Division, Dividing Your Debts can be highly complicated. Polly A. Tatum has the experience and solutions to help you and your family – and to satisfy how local judges respond to your mediation agreements. Ninety percent of our clients come from referrals from satisfied former clients.

Come read our clients’ testimonials to learn more. Our office can accommodate all work life schedules, Sun thru Sat 9am – 9pm.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Complimentary 1/2 hour consultation and $100 your first session.

45 Linden Street, Worcester and Serving All of MASS 508-795-1557 • www.mediationadvantage.com

Brenda Katz Owner & Director

For the past 14 years, Blossom Station has been a leader in early childhood education by providing a nurturing environment to families that encourages each and every child with “Intentional Curriculum” that allows them to reach their potential academically, socially, emotionally and physically. We also provide quality enrichment programs in science, math, music, fitness, foreign language, community outreach and more! Inquire about our flexible, year round programs. We’re currently enrolling infants, toddlers, pre-K, Kindergarten and before and after school children in our spacious safe, secure indoor and outdoor play areas.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Registration fee waived with this ad.

222 Main Street, Acton, MA • 978-266-2779 • www.BlossomStation.com

Christian Preschool

A Ministry of Trinity Lutheran Church

All are welcome at our nurturing and safe environment for children from the community as well as children of church members! With a low child-to-teacher ratio and flexible scheduling, we’re here to meet the needs of your family! Our hands on activities, language rich environment, open-ended art projects, creative thinking and problem solving all contribute to the development of individual strengths.

Facilities include an indoor gymnasium, enclosed outdoor play area, and kitchen for cooking projects. Licensed by the Department of Early Education and Care.

Located with easy access to I-290 and near several colleges. Directly across from the Worcester Art Museum.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Two weeks free tuition with this ad (new enrollment only).

73 Lancaster Street, Worcester, MA • 508-753-2989 • www.trinityworc.org/tlc-preschool-2 44 OCTOBER2013 45

Photograph by Michael Stone

Fa mily Portraits

Michael Stone Portraits

When you decide it’s time to have a beautiful and enduring portrait taken of your family, Michael Stone is the gifted and talented portrait artist you deserve. His understanding and enjoyment of people shows in his captivating portraits. His “stunningly beautiful” work is his trademark, spanning over 30 years. Reward yourself and your family with a timeless family heirloom masterfully created and hand finished by this dedicated, sensitive artist. Call for your complimentary session.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Receive 1 complimentary portrait session with this ad (regularly $250)

100 Francis Street, Worcester, MA 01606 • 508-852-2689 www.facebook.com/MichaelStonePortraits

Music Classes and Lessons Learn to play piano with me! I offer a variety of lessons: Parent & Child, Private, Group and With A Friend. Come join the fun! Lessons are designed to have you making music right away and are taught at my studio or your home, school or church.

My “Natural Approach” focuses on the sheer pleasure of playing music. To learn more, explore my web site and let’s talk about the lesson plan for you.

Kate Hanley Kate Hanley Piano Studio

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? One Complimentary Lesson.

Serving Central Mass and MetroWest • 774-329-9758 • www.katehanley.com

K D

Private School Cornerstone Academy is a private school dedicated to the education of children from Transitional Kindergarten through Grade 6. We offer an academically challenging environment that utilizes a blend of traditional and innovative teaching techniques, such as hands-on teaching models to reinforce concepts and experiential learning through experimentation and field trips.

Karen McQuade Director

WHAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE? Half off application fee with this ad.

REASONABLE EATING DECISIONS

Our Registered dietitians are ready to help you with any of your dietary needs, through one on one personal education. We help parents learn to make Reasonable Eating Decisions, whether it be for underweight babies & toddlers, allergies or struggling with obesity, we can help. We help adults too, who are struggling with their diet goals.

Health Insurance Accepted!

Northboro, MA • 508-351-9976 • www.cornerstoneacademy.org Picky Eaters Allergies Excess Weight

Underweight Failure to Thrive Eating Disorders

Difficulty Swallowing Food Aversions

We offer Affordable Classes: Expecting

Parents (10/5, 10/26, 12/7); A Babies 1st Year (10/9, 11/6); Fruits & Veggies (10/16, 11/13, 12/12); Picky Eaters (10/17, 11./14) 6 Week Adult Weight Class (starts 10/10 & 1/2); Fad Diets (10/3, 12/14); Holiday Eating Tips (11/6, 11/21, 12/14)

WHAT’S YOUR

ADvantage:

Sign-up at www.ReasonableRD.com or call 508-541-4520

Do you “qualify” for an ADvantage? You do if you provide a valuable, personalized and skilled service to our readers and/or their children! Here are just some of the many categories we want to feature each month: • Adoption specialists • Au pair/nanny placement agencies • Child, family & marriage counseling • Doulas & Midwives • Fertility experts • Lactation consultants • Massage therapists • Musical instrument and

Specialties:

Obesity Pre-Diabetes Diabetes

He plays hard — make sure he eats right Learn from a Registered Dietitian Ours are credentialed

by Health Insurers

singing instructors • Newborn care specialists • Nutritionists • Orthodontists • Pediatric Dentists • Pediatricians • Speech therapists • Wellness coaches • And more...

“TAKE A LOOK!” Thursday, Oct. 3, 9 am See students and teachers in action

Ads average $120/mo and include COMPLIMENTARY

Head Shots, Design and Copywriting $150 Value

up sic

re,

HARVEST FAIR Fun for the whole family!

Saturday Oct. 19 10 am to 4 pm

OPEN HOUSE The best directory of professionals from the Best Parenting Publication in

For more information email sales@baystateparent.com

America.

Saturday, Nov. 16 1 to 3 pm BAYSTATEPARENT 44 45

fall into fun... plan your party today!

RSVP YOUR SPACE TODAY email sales@baystateparent.com

Big JOE Joe BIG

the Storyteller

All Ages.

Birthday Parties, Schools, Fairs, Day Care Centers, Etc.

Storytelling fun for Birthday Parties, Storytelling fun for Birthday Parties, Schools, Daycare Centers, Schools, Daycare Library Programs, SpecialCenters, Library Events and TV Programs, Special Featuring: Events and TV • Original & Classic Stories Featuring: • Puppets, Props and Surprises For Bookings and Info Call: 617-713-4349 • Original & BigJoe@BigJoe.com E-mail: Classic Visit meStories on the web at: www.BigJoe.com • Puppets, Props

and Surprises For Bookings and Info Call: 617-713-4349 E-mail: BigJoe@BigJoe.com Visit me on the web at: www.BigJoe.com

www.rosalitaspuppets.com 617-633-2832

Chuck Demers (of Chuck & Mud)

Folksongs for Kids, too!

Guitar •Banjo Autoharp Fun! Interactive!

Affordable!

508-798-3010 chuckandmud@aol.com Facebook

Henna Parties for kids AND grown-ups

Optional add-ons: Mini-manicures A henna-decorated cake Henna cone favors.

“All Live” Insects, Small Reptiles & Animals

Mobile Video Game Theater

Up to 28 players can play inside or out.

Will travel across MA

Mandy Roberge, ICNHA Certified Henna Artist 978-660-2394 ahroberge@gmail.com www.mandyroberge.com

The Coolest Party EVER! There’s Nothing Else Like It. School presentations also available.

Fordshometown.com 1-800-649-9992

Call to schedule...

617-942-7877

www.EastCoastGaming2u.com

Help Mom During The Holidays!

Don’t miss this crucial season to market your business 90,000 moms will see your ad each month November Issue Space deadline: October 10 December Issue Space deadine: November 10 46 SEPTEMBER2013

For more information contact Regina Stillings, Director of Sales regina@baystateparent.com 508-865-7070 x 210

INDEX Acton Bowladrome ���������������������������� 47 Applewild School ������������������������������ 45 Attorney Connors ������������������������������ 36 Ballet Arts Worcester ������������������������� 14 Bancroft School �������������������������������� 48 Baystate Skate ��������������������������������� 34 Blossom Station ��������������������������������� 5 Boston Children’s Museum ����������������� 32 Button Tree �������������������������������������� 38 Children’s Dentistry ��������������������������� 23 Children’s Garden/VNA ���������������������� 27 Children’s Music Academy ������������������ 20 Children’s Workshop ���������������������������� 7 Commonwealth Ballet ����������������������� 20 Cornerstone Academy �������������������������� 3 Cutie Patuties Children’s Consignment ���� 4 Davis Farmland �������������������������� 11, 31 Disney �������������������������������������������� 41 EcoTarium ���������������������������������������� 39 Edaville USA ������������������������������������ 33 Fay School �������������������������������������� 37 Inn at East Hill ��������������������������������� 31 Jam Time ���������������������������������������� 19

JCC Boroughs ����������������������������������� 37 Kosto Associates/Braincore ���������������� 21 Learning Zone ���������������������������������� 20 Little Hands ������������������������������������� 27 Magay & Barron ������������������������������ 25 Mass Audubon ��������������������������������� 39 Mount Wachusett ������������������������������� 2 Music Together ����������������������������������� 4 New England Kids Dentist ������������������ 21 Next Generation Children’s Center ������� 14 Parenting Solutions ��������������������������� 38 Perkins School ��������������������������������� 23 Reasonable Eating ���������������������������� 45 Riverbend School �������������������������������� 6 Salvadore Auto ��������������������������������� 36 Skribbles ����������������������������������������� 14 The Brighton School �������������������������� 23 West End Creamery �������������������������� 32 Wheelock Family Theater ������������������� 33 Willard Clock ������������������������������������ 34 Worcester Academy of Music �������������� 35 YMCA of Central Massachusetts ���������� 11

You WON’T Hear Them Say They’re BORED at...

THE DROME is the Acton areas complete family Entertainment Center!

Family owned and operated for over 43 years.

Book your next event or birthday party with us.

Keep busy during Summer Vacation!

• 16 Bowling Lanes • Awesome Arcade • Great Prizes!

Our BURGERDROME restaurant provides a 50’s style diner experience.

257 Main Street Acton, Ma

978-263-7638 • www.actonbowladrome.com

bsp’s HOW TO LIST baystateparent is proud to offer

COMPLIMENTARY ADVERTISEMENTS

to recognized not-for-profit organizations to promote their missions and events.

Preference is given to 501(c)3 organizations and organizations that support causes that are near and dear to us like children’s health and well-being, nutrition, special needs and adoption.

For more information, download our complimentary advertisement form at baystateparent.com. Go to contact then click advertise.

NATIONAL STUTTERING ASSOCIATION A nonprofifit organization dedicated to empowering children and adults who stutter, their families, and professionals through support, education, advocacy, and research.

119 W. 40th Street, 14th Floor, New York, NY 10018 224-305-2701

TO ADVERTISE in baystateparent, call Regina Stillings at 508-865-7070 x210 or email her at regina@baystateparent.com.

FOR HELP IN FINDING A SPEAKER AND/OR LOCATION for your next parenting-oriented event, please contact Stephen Warshaw at stephen@baystateparent.com.

WE’D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR IDEAS FOR A STORY.

To suggest or submit a story for baystateparent, please call Editor Jennifer Lucarelli at 508-865-7070 ext. 201 or email her at editor@baystateparent.com.

TO SUBMIT CALENDAR EVENTS

go to baystateparent.com/ calendar/submit.

All calendar events must be submitted by the 1st of the previous month to be considered for the print calendar.

BAYSTATEPARENT 47

Educating college-bound students Pre-K through Grade 12 Bancroft students discover themselves as leaders, learners, and global citizens, developing the skills to succeed in the world’s top colleges and beyond.

Pre-K-12 Fall Open House | Oct. 20 at 1:30 pm | www.bancroftschool.org

academics

arts

athletics

Lower, Middle, & Upper Schools

48 OCTOBER2013

technology

110 Shore Drive Worcester, MA 01605 508.854.9227 www.bancroftschool.org