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BigAppleParent APRIL 2017

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

Party-Planning Timeline

Green Your Kid’s Room Tips for Earth Day

Organize the perfect birthday for your child

SpecialParent

Amazing Accomplishments

• A Cookbook by a Boy with Autism • How Music Lessons Helped My Son

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

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BigAppleParent

NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

April 2017 ››

Features

16 The Ultimate Party-Planning Timeline Give your kids the birthday of their dreams— without driving yourself crazy 18 Detox the Toy Box Simple steps to reduce your kids’ exposure to environmental hazards

22 Mindful Games Two activities to help kids practice mindfulness 40 Chasing His Dreams How a teen with autism overcame his food aversions to create a cooking show and cookbook 44 15 Questions to Ask When Looking for a Special Needs Tutor Advice to find the right one

Connections

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 12 NYMP Q&A: Nicole Feliciano talks about being a “mom boss.” 54 Voices: How music lessons helped a child with autism and sensory processing disorder

Fun & Activities 14 15 15 24 27 38

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

Directories

46 52 52 52 53 53

Camp Guide Professional Services Open Houses Party Central Family Resource Guide and Party Planner Advertisers’ Index

Original photo by PhotoOp NYC (photoopnyc.com) Clothing provided by Appaman (appaman.com)

››

ON THE COVER ›› 16 Party-Planning Timeline 18 Green Your Kids Room facebook.com/nymetroparents

DIY Corner: Stitching Stars Media Matters: What to Watch for Earth Day Your Child Can Be IN the Circus! Outing: Minnewaska State Park Family Activities Calendar Where-To Guide: Minor League Baseball

40 A Cookbook by a Boy with Autism

54 How Music Lessons Helped My Son

@NYMetroParents

Visit NYMETROPARENTS.COM for family activities updated daily and more than 2,000 parenting articles!

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APRIL 2017 • Vol32• No.4

EDITOR’S NOTE

Creative Pursuits by Amazing Kids

y oldest daughter has recently gotten very interested in baking and cooking. She’s progressed quickly from brownie mix with lots of help from an adult to cookies from scratch, on her own (except for putting them in or taking them out of the oven, which we insist a grown-up still do). She follows recipes carefully, and while she occasionally expresses ideas for her own creations, she hasn’t ventured there yet. So I was fascinated to read about another young person who has his own YouTube cooking show and recently published a cookbook of his own recipes—impressive for any teen, but even more so for Chase Bailey, who has autism. As part of our Autism Awareness Month coverage, read an interview with Chase and try out some recipes from The Official Chase ‘N Yur Face Cookbook (p. 40). Chase isn’t the only super-impressive young person with special needs you’ll meet in this issue. For our Voices column (p. 54), Manhattan mom Michaela Searfoorce shares how her son James was transformed by music lessons, even participating in performances he previously would not have even been able to attend. And did you catch the beautiful photo of Ryan on our cover? The 14-year-old Queens resident was one of the finalists in our Kids’ Cover Contest last year. His mom captioned the photo she submitted: “I have autism but it doesn’t have me.” Meeting Ryan in person at our photo shoot, I realized how perfect that statement is. On a related note, this year’s Kids’ Cover Contest launches April 24. Go to nymetroparents.com/cover then to enter for a chance to see your child on our magazine cover. In the meantime, we have a unique opportunity for you to win a walk-on role for your child in Circus 1903 at the Theater at Madison Square Garden! Enter at nymetroparents.com/circus for this amazing chance to see your kid pulled onstage during a performance. Whether you hold your child’s birthday party at the circus or you’re more of a low-key athome party kind of family, planning our kids’ parties is an essential part to today’s parenting job description. Some parents enjoy and look forward to this, but I know my wife and I are not alone in feeling the pressure of our kids’ expectations and the difficulties of fitting party planning into our already busy lives. If you’re like us, you’ll want to check out our timeline for birthday planning (p. 16), so you can get organized and de-stress the process. April brings us Earth Day, our annual reminder of what we should be doing year-round to ensure our kids inherit a healthier, safer planet. If you’re looking to live greener, how about starting right at home, with your kids’ bedrooms or playrooms? Emma Steven explores some of the environmental dangers lurking in household items and offers pointers on how to eliminate them (p. 18). Of course, this month also brings Easter and Passover. Wishing a happy holiday to all of you celebrating, and a healthy, fun spring to everyone! Michael Kress Editorial Director, NYMetroParents

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Emma Steven (Manhattan); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERN: Sabrina Sooknanan

ADVERTISING SALES Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 Jessica Leonhardt, Jeunesse Jackson, Linda Pierce Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Ellen Klein Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Randi Shulman, Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Ellen Klein, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager, Dani Pollack Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Lisa Herlihy, Karen Shapiro To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATORS: Ray C. Guédez, Leonard Porter DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro ADMINISTRATION MANAGER: Erin Jordan

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR | PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Robert Reynolds DIRECTOR | DIGITAL CONTENT DEVELOPMENT: Sara Wentworth

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

MARKETING

HEAD OF MARKETING: Jacqueline Lachman

ADMINISTRATION

CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Diedra Smith EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Barbara Byrd

Davler Media Group CEO: David L. Miller

We’re Looking for Great Writing—By Your Kids! Does your child have a great story to tell about something that’s happened in her life? A strong opinion about an issue affecting him? An exploration of overcoming obstacles and achieving her dreams? NYMetroParents is seeking essay submissions from local tweens and teens—and the best ones may be published online or in a future issue of this magazine! Essays can be about virtually any topic of relevance to local children and families, but should be written entirely by your child, with minimal help from Mom and Dad. Submissions should be 600-800 words. Parents should email their child’s submission to nympwriter@nymetroparents.com. Be sure to let us know how old your child is and where you live. And remember: We’re also always on the lookout for great personal essays from moms and dads in our area! Submit your best take on life as a New York metro-area parent to the same email address above.

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

General Manager: Thomas K. Hanlon 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor, New York, NY 10018 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 nymetroparents.com davlermedia.com nybarbatmitzvah.com

BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN PARENT, and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2017, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. Subscription rates per year, per publication: $39

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NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS

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Who: Badger Day Camp What’s New: Nature and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) programs will provide campers with a variety of hands-on learning opportunities. Through the nature program, campers will learn about the environment by going on hikes, meeting little creatures, working with sustainable gardens, and more. The STEAM program will offer hands-on projects such as rocket building, coding, race cars, and 3-D printers. Through a partnership with the tech store MacInspires, Badger Day Camp aims to exceed the offerings of traditional day camps. Located in Larchmont, within Westchester County, Badger Day Camp serves kids ages 3-12, and has an Olympic-sized pool, which campers can swim in twice daily. Want More Info: 119 Rockland Ave., Larchmont; 914-834-1084; info@badgerdaycamp.com; badgersportsclub.com

Courtesy Badger Day Camp

Day Camp in Westchester Adds Programs

Badger Day Camp’s STEAM program offers hands-on activities such as rocket building.

Who: Row New York What’s New: Ownership of the Peter Jay Sharp Boathouse, which was purchased from the New York Restoration Project in spring 2017. Under Row New York’s ownership, the boathouse will continue to offer extensive access to the Harlem River and remain an important source of waterfront recreation for Sherman Creek Park. “Row New York is thrilled to be taking ownership of the Peter Jay Sharp Boathouse on the Harlem River,” says communications director Colleen Bailey. “We’ve enjoyed five years of running successful yearlong programs and summer camps out of this facility and consider it a second home.” Want More Info: Peter Jay Sharp Boathouse, 3579 Harlem River Drive; 718-433-3075; rownewyork.org

Courtesy Row New York

Rowing Program Takes Over Ownership of Boathouse on the Harlem River

Row New York provides programs for under-resourced NYC youth as well as classes for the general public and children with disabilities.

Who: MitoMedical What’s New: Research on children with autism spectrum disorder, which notes increased recognition that mitochondrial dysfunction is related to autism and empirical support for common mitochondrial treatments. “MitoSpectra is a product that we have developed specifically to help improve mitochondrial function and health. When layered in with other therapies that deal with sensory and motor function, language and cognitive abilities, and behavior, tremendous results can be achieved,” says Suzanne Goh, M.D., M.B.A., chief medical officer of MitoMedical. MitoMedical is a manufacturer of all-natural dietary supplements with a focus on mitochondrial function. Want More Info: 888-607-5958; mitomedical.com 8

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy MitoMedical

New Research in the Field of Autism

Suzanne Goh, M.D., M.B.A., is the chief medical offer of MitoMedical.

TAP JAZZ BALLET POINTE MODERN LYRICAL CONTEMPORARY HIP HOP MUSICAL THEATRE ACRO BALLROOM

SUMMER & FALL REGISTRATION Join Dance Workshop as we celebrate our one year anniversary at our Upper East Side location set in a brownstone on 64th street. We look forward to welcoming you to our studio! 6 Week Summer Program Every Tuesday from July 11th - August 15th Classes available for ages 2-teens! Fall Season Begins September 11, 2017 Registration available online now! 154 East 64th Street at Lexington Ave | NYC 10065 | 917.388.2013 | dance@danceworkshopny.com Schedule available online at danceworkshopny.com BigAppleParent

UOTABLES That first baby learning curve is steep, and there is no way to relax when, for the first time ever, you are responsible for something as huge as a human life with the tiniest toes you’ve ever seen. —Jill Krause, in a post entitled “if i knew then what i know now,” on her blog babyrabies.com

in an instagram Rainy day women portrait mode?!)

(also anyone else obsessed with the #iPhone

(Posted by @augustabelle, aka Belle Augusta Savransky, an East Village mom and photographer whose website is belleaugusta.com)

A SPECIAL MILESTONE

in an instagram She’ll be taking herself to school before I know it.

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(Posted by @chanynck, aka Chanyn Cheree Kirtman, who blogs at styliststandpoint.com)

“I know many moms have a hard time finding their footing in the career world after they have kids. I’ve already gotten over the fact that I’m not meant to be just a mom. It’s a beautiful life, it’s an unforgiving life and it’s not the life I want. I don’t feel sorry about it. Mama wants a career, kids. Sorry not sorry. —Brittany Minor, in a post entitled “Where the Hell did My 5-Year Plan Go?!” on mom.me

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

“The museum combines the history of cacao and chocolate with hands-on activities to make your own chocolate, and, the best part—chocolate tastings. The kids may want to breeze through the historical part of the museum, but it is definitely worth bringing them to try samples, play in the kids’ area, and make their own chocolate.” —Samantha Neudorf in an article entitled “A Look Into New York City’s First-Ever Chocolate Museum” Read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/chocolate-museum.

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: FUN IN SPRING: Download a free guide to the top Spring activities in the New York area (nymetroparents.com/spring-activities). PLAN YOUR CHILD’S SUMMER: Find the perfect camp at nymetroparents.com/camp-finder. HOPPIN’ GOOD TIME: Find local Easter events at nymetroparents.com/easter-nyc. MAKE YOUR OWN MATZAH: A Passover activity for the whole family (nymetroparents.com/matzah).

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BigAppleParent 11

NYMP Q&A

How to Be a ‘Mom Boss’›› By Bethany Braun-Silva

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

icole Feliciano is the founder of Momtrends.com, which offers trends and tips for moms who want to live a fashionable life. Her book Mom Boss: Balancing Entrepreneurship, Kids & Success was recently published. What is a “mom boss”? There are some women who really want to create a brand and do something like I have. If you’re looking to take a skill you’ve already got—say you’re a lawyer or you’re a consultant and you want to start up on your own— my tip would be to start getting some freelance clients before you quit your day job and see what it’s like, see what those hours turn out to be, how much money are you making per hour, could you live off of that salary if you project out what that’s going to look like in six or 12 months. But really focus on, “Where is my income going to come from and how is this going to affect my family life?” It’s a unique proposal when you’re a mom boss because I think a lot of entrepreneurs start and all they need is a great idea and the time and energy to throw into it. When you’re a mom entrepreneur you also have to factor in where your family is going to fit. You can’t work around-theclock when you’ve got young kids at home. Why do you think so many women, especially moms, are turning to entrepreneurship? I think it’s the deaf ears of corporations and the lack of flexibility in the workspace. So many of the women I spoke to said they just got so tired of asking for permission or for missing out on the moments of childhood and parenting that they were so invested in. A lot of women invest a lot of time and energy into their careers and then when they finally have kids they want to be super present; they’ve waited so long for this moment to happen and they don’t want to miss their memories. And workplaces have not flexed to accommodate the needs of working mothers. And mom boss life allows you to grow at the pace that you want to grow. When my kids were little, I was just kind of keeping the business small, and then as they’ve gotten older I’ve been able to ramp it up, and I’ve got more bandwidth to take on work projects, [so] I’ve been able to grow it at my pace. What advice do you have for moms who want to start their own business? I would definitely suggest making a one-year map for yourself. And that’s going to have the profitability. Where is that going to come from? I think a lot of women figure out products that are sellable that people will be attracted to buy but they don’t build in all of the expenses that go into marketing and building this product. So I’d love to see women spend more time and effort or get a coach or do networking where they can find a business partner who can walk them through the actual expenses of a business.

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BigAppleParent 13

DIY CORNER MATH FUN

Stitching Stars

Sometimes equations are too hard to solve, even for professionals! For these problems, people invent methods that are easy to compute and approximate the solution. This branch of mathematics is called Numerical Analysis. These numerical algorithms are usually done on a computer, and by doing more calculations you can make your approximate solution as good as you need. Curve stitching is a way to approximate a curve by drawing only straight lines, without any computation needed. The closer you draw the lines together, the better the approximation to the curve you make. We can use the same technique to make a variety of curves and shapes that can be turned into beautiful art. Materials Pencil and eraser Manila folder or very lightweight cardboard Ruler Pushpin

Corrugated cardboard or a bath towel Scissors Thread (embroidery thread, yarn, or other thick thread) Blunt needle

Stitch a Star 1. Using a pencil, lightly draw two lines in the shape of a plus sign on your manila folder. (Don’t press too hard; you’re going to erase them later.) Using your ruler, make even marks from the center point and moving outward along each line. 2. Using the pushpin, carefully poke a hole at each mark on your folder. This is easier to do if you put your folder over something that you can push pins into safely, such as a piece of corrugated cardboard or a thick, folded towel. 3. Lightly number two of the lines as shown (fig. 2). 4. Cut a piece of thread about the length of your arm and thread it onto your needle. 5. Starting from the back of your folder, push the needle through the hole you labeled No. 1. That is at the tip of your star. As you pull the thread through the hole, stop when there are a few inches still sticking through and tape the end of the thread down on the back of the folder very securely. Tug on the thread a little to make sure it won’t slip through.

Fig. 2: Lightly number two of the lines.

Fig. 4: Make a short stitch through the back of hole No. 2. From the front, connect the two No. 2 holes with another long stitch.

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

6. Your needle should be on the front side of your folder now. Push the needle down through the other hole marked No. 1 to make a long stitch. Your thread should connect the two dots. 7. Starting on the backside of your folder again, push the needle through the hole right next to it, which should be hole No. 2, making a short stitch. Then, from the front side, you can make another long stitch to connect both No. 2 holes (fig. 4). 8. Continue like this for the rest of the holes. You should have long stitches on the front side of your folder, and short stitches on the back. When you run out of thread, tape the end down on the back of your folder, cut another piece of thread, thread your needle, and keep going! When you’ve finished your curve, tape the end of the thread on the back of the folder and trim any long ends (fig. 5). 9. S titch the other three parabolas in the same way to finish your four-pointed star! You can number the other axes if you need to. Experiment with using different colors for your lines (fig. 6). 10. Gently erase any visible pencil marks. Excerpted from Math Lab for Kids by Rebecca Rapoport and J.A. Yoder with permission of Quarry Books

Fig. 5: Continue like this for the rest of the holes.

Fig. 6: Stitch the other three parabolas in the same way.

Media Matters: Movies & TV Shows

One Big Ocean (PBS)

Recommended age: 3+ H

Featuring biodiversity, environ

What to Watch for Earth Day

HHH

mental concerns in marine

Dr. Seuss: The Lorax (DVD, Stre

Recommended age: 5+

aming)

HHHHH

An outstanding 1970s Dr. Seu

ss parable about protecting

Planet Earth II (BBC America)

Recommended age: 6+

adventures

nature

HHHHH

This nature documentary seq

uel is a visual triumph.

Boy and the World (DVD, Stre

Recommended age: 7+

This poignant hand-drawn

aming)

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story promotes family and env

ironmentalism.

Chasing Ice (DVD, Streaming)

Recommended age: 13+

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A beautiful, affecting docum

entary about glacier retreat

In Theaters April 7: Smurfs: The Lost Village

Our Partner: Common Sense Media An independent nonprof it that helps families make smart media choices. Check out thousands of ratings and reviews at commonsensemedia.org

Parents need to know that Smurfs: The Lost Village is an animated comedy that—unlike The Smurfs and The Smurfs 2—doesn’t appear to have any live-action characters. Instead, this movie focuses solely on the Smurf world, where Smurfette (voiced by Demi Lovato), the only female Smurf in the whole village, struggles to find her purpose. She decides to set off on a quest into the Forbidden Forest to find the legendary Lost Village, accompanied by three other Smurfs—Clumsy (Jack McBrayer), Brainy (Danny Pudi), and Hefty (Joe Manganiello). Expect plenty of comic peril thanks to evil wizard Gargamel (Rainn Wilson), plus plenty of potty humor. But kids love these tiny blue people, and parents who liked the original Smurfs animated series may enjoy watching this movie with them.

See more at NYMetroParents.com/media

Jim Lee

SWEEPSTAKES

Your Child Can Be IN the Circus! ›› Enter for a chance to win a unique opportunity to see your kid on stage.

YMetroParents has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for one lucky child to have a part in an upcoming performance of Circus 1903 at the Theater at Madison Square Garden! The winner’s family will be sitting in premier seats while your child is invited to join the performers on stage. Kids dream about being in the circus—now yours may have a chance to make that dream come true! Go to nymetroparents.com/circus to enter. The Grand Prize winner’s celebrity moment will take place at the 6pm performance on Saturday, April 15, and the winner will receive four free premium tickets to the show. In addition, two second-prize winners will each receive a family four-pack of tickets to a Circus 1903 show in April. Enter today to for a chance to win this unique opportunity to make a memory that will last forever. There is no charge for entry; simply fill out the form at nymetroparents.com/circus.

More About Circus 1903

A brand-new show, Circus 1903 is the circus reimagined—more than two hours of edge-of-your-seat entertainment with an incredible cast of the most unique, spellbinding, and dangerous circus acts from all four corners of the globe. Sensational puppetry puts elephants back in the ring as never seen before while Ringmaster Willy Whipsnade takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the magic of the circus. *No purchase necessary. Open to individuals who are at least 18 years of age, a legal resident of, and located within, 100 miles of New York City at the time of entry, who are the parent or legal guardian of a child born between April 12, 2005, and March 21, 2012. Ends 11:59pm ET April 11, 2017. Must be available to attend 6pm performance on April 15, 2017 if Grand Prize winner. Void outside stated area and where prohibited. See Official Rules for complete details.

BigAppleParent 15

The Ultimate Party-Planning Timeline ›› How to give your kids the birthday of their dreams—without driving yourself crazy in the process By Bethany Braun-Silva

ids may look forward to their birthday parties all year long, but let’s face it: For many of us, planning that party can be stressful, yet another project in our already hectic lives. It can feel overwhelming even before you consider kids’ high expectations for the perfect birthday. But don’t panic— we are here to help! To keep you organized, here’s a timeline of everything you need to make the planning process run smoothly, whether you are hosting the party at home or at one of the many local birthday party places. From when to book the venue to when to buy supplies (hint, not as early as you may think!), we’ve got you covered.

Six Months Prior

This might seem like a very long time in advance to start planning your child’s birthday party, but if you’re thinking of doing it at a party venue, it can book up fast. Now is the time to start getting an idea of what your child wants, including themes, places, and the size of the guest list. It wouldn’t hurt to start calling possible venues about availability.

Three Months Prior

Book the venue! Better to be safe than sorry.   16

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Start thinking about a theme. If your child is old enough, discuss it with him. You can start putting together a Pinterest board to collect all of your ideas and inspiration. This is also a great way to get the birthday boy or girl involved, says Seri Kertzner, owner of Little Miss Party Planner, a party planning service in New York City and the Hamptons. “Kids love talking and planning for a specific theme especially when it comes to the look of the cake,” she says. “Let your little one help you sketch a picture of the cake to show your bakery.”   Do you want entertainment at your child’s party? Now is the time to start thinking about booking clowns, magicians, or any characters that will make an appearance. Be sure to ask all entertainers about set-up requirements and backups in case they are sick.

Two Months Prior

Confirm the date with the venue and go over the details. Be sure to find out what they will be providing in the way of food, cake, decorations, and favors. Pick menu items and décor and make a list of anything additional you will need to buy or prepare. Make arrangements to get whatever is not provided by the venue.

This is also a good time to start thinking about the guest list. If your child’s in school, there might be a policy in which all children in her class must be invited. If not, decide on the size of the party and be sure to keep your budget in mind. Many venues offer parties for 10-12 kids and can charge a hefty price for additional guests.

One Month Prior

Mail (or email) invitations and make sure they have a clear RSVP date. This is also another prime opportunity to get your child involved. The experts at MarthaStewart.com suggest, “Have him or her draw on paper (or a blank puzzle) and color in the designs, cut out pictures to glue onto blank invitations, or put stickers on cards.”   Make sure you line up help for the day of the party. Confirm that a babysitter, close friend, or relative will be on hand to help in whatever way you need.   Start shopping for supplies. “You don’t want to shop too far in advance for kids ages 3-6 years old—that may be too early,” says Marla Mase, owner of Party Poopers, a party planning company in NYC. “Remember, kids change their minds a lot— and what they liked three months ago may be very different than what they like today.”

Two Weeks Prior

Order the cake if you don’t plan on baking it yourself. And if you are baking it yourself, check the recipe, make your shopping list, and get the necessary ingredients.

snacks, and movies, and you’re set if you find you need to make a last-minute change,” Kertzner says.

The Day of the Party

Deep breaths! Hopefully, you have planned far enough ahead to only need to take care of a few minor details and do prep work on the big day. Here are some things to consider: • Get the house ready for the big day.   • Decorate, set the table, prepare activities, and confirm with entertainment that morning.   • Bake or pick up the cake.   • Know where the candles and matches are.   • Set up the food.   • Clear a table for presents.   • Make sure to have a pad and pen on hand when you open presents to record who gave what. Finally, “Be relaxed!” Kertzner says. “The most important thing is for your kids to have a good time. If you chose a good venue they will take care of every detail so you can be a guest and enjoy your child’s party.”

Several Days After

Write thank you notes. Have your child assist you in thanking her guests for coming to her party. Younger kids can dictate their message to you or draw a picture on the notes; older kids can sign their names, while those who can write their own notes should do so themselves.

If the party is at home, start thinking of games and activities for the children to play. There are plenty of online resources with ideas, and be sure to ask your child because he may have a very specific idea of what he wants to do at the party.

One Week Prior

The party is getting close! This is the time to start tying up loose ends and confirming all details are correct. Follow up on any unanswered invitations.   Prepare the goodie bags. You’ll need the bags themselves, of course, and the contents to go in them. And remember, you can give small games, pencils and erasers, or even small books in addition to, or instead of, candy, to cut down on the sugar. Make sure you have enough storage on your phone for pictures. Time to make some tough decisions! But better than being caught without a camera available at the party. Get the space ready. If you are having the party at home, now is a time to clean, clear space, and move valuables and breakable things out of the way.   If the party is not at home, confirm the timeline with your venue. What is the order of activities? When should the food arrive? And so on.   Have a back-up plan. “If you’re hosting a party outdoors you must have a back-up plan, including a space indoors. Check the weather and two days out make your call. Board games,

BigAppleParent 17

Detox the Toy Box

››

Simple steps to reduce your kids’ exposure to environmental hazards where they sleep and play By Emma Steven

he majority of Americans have at least 300 different environmental chemicals in their blood, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These include flame retardants in crib mattresses, formaldehyde in furniture, bisphenol A (BPA) in food, and phthalates in toys and toiletries; it’s enough to make even the most laid back parent anxious. Feeling overwhelmed? Here are some simple things you can do to help green your home, starting with kids’ rooms and playrooms.

Reality Check

The most common dangers at home are lead, pesticides, flame retardants, endocrine disruptors, cleaning products, and air pollutants. Before you start freaking out, give yourself a break— you can’t possibly stop your children from coming into contact with these chemicals completely. “I know that feeling of being the frontline of protection for your family, and it’s exhausting,” says Sonya Lunder, senior analyst at the nonprofit Environmental Working Group. “It’s not possible, and it’s not necessary.”

Beware of Lead Paint

If your home was built before 1978, have it inspected for lead paint. Dust and flakes are dangerous to children, who breathe in more than adults and put their hands in their mouths a lot. Make 18

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

sure any renovations are properly sealed, and check paint regularly for chips. Vacuum and wipe down surfaces weekly, using a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. My son’s lead levels became elevated last year after a workman scraped off lead paint from a door in his room without taking precautions.

Don’t Use Bug Treatments

A 2015 study found that use of household insecticides was connected to increased risk of leukemia and lymphoma in kids. Look for natural ways of controlling pests, such as blocking off access and vacuuming regularly. Never use pesticides in children’s rooms, and if you have to use them on your pets, keep them away from your kids and high-traffic areas for at least 24 hours.

A Safe Night’s Sleep

“The one thing you should do in your kid’s room is buy a new non-toxic mattress,” says Maia James, founder of the website Gimme The Good Stuff and a healthy home consultant. Many conventional mattresses are made from petroleum-based polyurethane foam covered with vinyl containing phthalates and sprayed with flame retardants. All of these things off-gas while your child is asleep. Don’t use hand-me-downs; mattresses made before 2005 may contain polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs),

highly toxic fire retardants that are now banned. There are lots of manufacturers who now make mattresses without flame retardants, and if you want to go even further, buy one made of natural materials such as cotton and wool and that has been certified by an independent body such as GreenGuard or Oeko-Tex. Don’t use pillows or changing pads that contain foam; replace them with organic wool or cotton instead. Finally, make sure you wash any new bedding, as lots of textiles are processed with dyes and formaldehyde.

Beds, Dressers, and More

When buying kids’ furniture, the best choice is solid wood rubbed with oil and made with non-toxic glues. However this isn’t an option for everyone due to budget or decor. The biggest dangers are flame retardants in foam and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde from composite wood, paint, furniture glue, and varnishes. The good news is that all furniture is becoming safer, thanks to laws that limit off-gassing. Look for brands with low emission standards such as California Air Resources Board (CARB or European equivalents) and foam without flame retardants. Avoid products with stain- or water-resistant finishes, which can contain perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs). There are lowor no-VOC paints and varnishes available, and if you have already renovated you can buy sealants to stop off-gasing.

Get a Wool Rug

Choose solid wood floors and natural flooring, as some carpets and their glues can off-gas formaldehyde and acetone. Avoid vinyl tiles (which can contain phthalates) and don’t forget rugs. “One

simple thing I tell people to do is get a wool rug,” James says. Studies have shown that wool flooring absorbs formaldehyde and nitrogen, making it a great choice for kids’ rooms.

Use Air-Cleaning Plants

Put a spider plant or peace lily on your kid’s dresser—not only will it look good, it will also improve the air quality. “Houseplants are surprisingly effective,” James says. In 1989, NASA conducted a now-famous study that revealed many common houseplants were able to filter VOCs such as formaldehyde, ammonia, and benzene.

Swap Plastic Toys for Natural Materials

The good news is you don’t have to throw away all of your kids plastic toys, Lunder says. “The really toxic phthalates have been banned from kids’ toys, and plastics are pretty hard to avoid,” she explains. “It’s nice to minimize plastic, but it’s almost impossible to avoid.” Some plastics are marked with a recycling symbol and a number, to tell you what sort of plastic they are; avoid anything marked with a “3” or made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC (such as beach balls), as these often have phthalates in them. Get rid of soft plastic bath toys and books, and don’t let young kids put plastic toys in their mouths. Use toys and teethers made of natural materials, such as wood and cloth, instead of plastic. Don’t let kids play with polycarbonate water bottles or containers (marked with a “7” or PC), as these are most likely to contain BPA, or chew on electronics such as phones and remotes, as they can contain flame retardants. Finally, be careful with kid’s jewelry; it can contain lead and cadmium. continued on next page ››

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‹‹ continued from previous page

Your Kid Can Be IN the

Circus!

Clean Up Safely

Break out that vacuum regularly in kids’ rooms and play areas to get rid of toxins that collect in dust. Choose one with a HEPA filter and follow up with a wet mop as often as possible. With cleaning products less is more. “Disinfecting products are simply not necessary outside a clinical setting,” Lunder says. Many contain strong chemicals that cause asthma, skin irritation, and even cancer. Warm water and soap is enough for daily cleaning. For something stronger, look for active ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide or citric acid. Using microfiber cloths and mops will also make it easier to clean up without chemicals.

Wash Your Hands

Get rid of the hand sanitizer by the changing mat and don’t use it on your kids’ hands. It may contain triclosan, trilocarbon,

CHEMICAL GLOSSARY

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Flame Retardants Found in polyurethane foam, such as nursing pillows, mattresses, changing pads, and car seats, as well as electronic items such as remote controls. Known carcinogens, neurotoxins, and endocrine disruptors. A recent study found that levels in the bodies of children were nearly five times higher than their mothers. Phthalates Found in personal care products, soft plastic toys (especially polyvinyl chloride, or PVC), teethers, vinyl clothes, some paints, air fresheners (parfum), food, and plastic food containers. Linked to a variety of health problems, including asthma, allergies, male infertility, and abnormal hormonal development. Bisphenol A (BPA) Found in plastic bottles and utensils, sippy cups, teethers, bottled formula, and canned food. Known endocrine disruptor that has been linked to breast cancer. Its replacement, bisphenol S (BPS), is also thought to be toxic. Formaldehyde Found in composite wood, furniture and carpet glues, and cleaning and personal care products. Known carcinogen. Causes asthma, eye and throat irritation, and allergies.

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April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Triclosan Found in antibacterial soaps, toothpaste, and hand sanitizers. Linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, liver toxicity, and thyroid dysfunction. Recently banned by the Food and Drug Administration for use in hand soaps. Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) Found in waterproof and stainproof shoes and clothes, furniture, and carpets. Suspected to be carcinogenic and to cause liver and thyroid problems. Parabens Used as preservatives in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals Some have been linked to endocrine disruption, sperm damage, breast cancer, and neurological and hormonal conditions.

or fragrances, which are suspected carcinogens and endocrine disruptors. Triclosan was recently banned by the Food and Drug Administration and is also found in antibacterial soap.

Lose the Air Fresheners

Throw away the air freshener, as it may contain phthalates among other nasties. James recommends a low-fi option: activated charcoal bags. Charcoal is a natural air purifier and may absorb some toxins, as well as bad odors. If you want to go one step further, buy an air filter such as the Austin Air Healthmate, which filters gases, odors, and particles. Finally remember to open windows often, as indoor air often contains higher levels of VOCs such as formaldehyde.

Activism for Change

Now for some good news: “Levels of BPA, triclosan, parabens, and some phthalate levels in blood have gone down between 2003 and 2014,” Lunder says. This is thanks to increased awareness and new laws and regulations. So speak up and support groups such as the Environmental Working Group that is campaigning to change legislation, and educate your friends and family to make smart choices. “It’s not a job that one person can do on their own, we have to change it on a national level,” Lunder says.

Useful Resources: • EWG.org • EPA.gov • CDC.gov

• GimmeTheGoodStuff.org • visual.ly/nasa-guide-air-filtering-houseplants • ceh.org/residential-furniture

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Mindful Games

››

Activities for kids to help them practice mindfulness, awareness, calmness, kindness, and compassion

indfulness is a popular buzzword these days. It is being used everywhere from the home, to the workplace, to how we parent and deal with other personal relationships. Now kids can get in on the action, too. Susan Kaiser Greenland is a mediation practitioner and an expert when it comes to teaching mindfulness to kids. She wrote the book Mindful Games as a way for children to develop focusing skills and respond in a calm way to situations. The games are simple and fun to play and Greenland suggests they are as equally beneficial for parents to play as well. Below is an excerpt from the book that includes two “mindful games.”

Drop the Monkeys

Drop the Monkeys is a remarkably useful visual demonstration of how kids work with the thoughts, emotions, and sensations that bubble up during anchor games. It is also a wonderful group facilitation tool that brings playfulness and a sense of humor to the check-ins that follow introspective practices. Using a children’s toy called Barrel of Monkeys as a prop, children joke about the thoughts that grabbed their attention. With the help of a colorful plastic toy, we build a chain of monkeys to demonstrate how we can notice thoughts and let them go. Life Skills: Focusing, seeing Target Ages: Young children, older children 22

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Leading The Demonstration 1. Talking points: Do you ever notice that instead of paying attention to what’s happening in the moment, you become distracted by a thought about something that happened in the past or something that might happen in the future? What are some examples? 2. In this game, each monkey represents a thought, emotion, or sensation that has grabbed our attention. Offer an example of a distracting thought and hold up a monkey. 3. Now you give me an example. For each distraction we think of, I’ll add another monkey to the chain. Take three to four examples from children, and add a monkey to the chain for each example. 4. These are all monkeys we can let go of, right? We don’t need any of these thoughts and emotions distracting us right now, so let’s drop them. Drop the monkey chain back into the plastic barrel. 5. That was fun. Let’s try it again. Can you think of more examples? Tips 1. Although the barrel of monkeys is used more like a toy with younger children, it can be a helpful visual aid when working with older children (and adults!).

2. Extend the demonstration by adding a discussion at the end. Here are some talking points: How often does your mind wander away from the present into the past or future? Do thoughts and emotions stay the same, or do they change over time? 3. Drop the Monkeys helps children turn distractions into success stories. Hold up the monkey chain and ask children what to call the moment when they notice they’re distracted. Kids shout, “Mindfulness!” because they know where their minds are at that instant. 4. Occasionally, children bring up a serious topic that merits further inquiry. If the timing and venue are right, there’s no better time to talk about what’s bothering them. But sensitive topics are sometimes raised at inappropriate times. If that happens, acknowledge the topic and the child’s concern, then shift the tone and subject matter of the discussion. Be sure to revisit the topic with the child privately at a more appropriate time and place. Next, young meditators choose a breathing anchor by noticing where they feel their breath most easily—near their noses, in their chests, or inside their bellies.

Tips 1. Choose Your Breathing Anchor can also be practiced lying down or standing. 2. When leading more than one child, ask them to put one hand on their head when they’ve chosen an anchor. Wait for everyone to choose an anchor before you continue. 3. It can be helpful to start the activity with a relaxing body scan. For example, “Feel your eyelids closed, feel your shoulders relaxed, feel your hands touching your knees, feel your legs touching the floor or the chair . . .” 4. When children have had some practice sitting for longer periods, you can extend this activity with a few minutes of Mindful Breathing. 5. To vary the game, ask children to choose another simple, neutral object to anchor their attention: a sound, a sensation, or counting, for example. Susan Kaiser Greenland is an internationally recognized leader in teaching mindfulness and meditation to children, teens, and families. She is the author of The Mindful Child and Mindful Games, and has studied meditation with teachers from the Tibetan Buddhist tradition since 1997.

Choose Your Breathing Anchor

We pay attention to the feeling of breathing where we notice it most—near the nose, chest, or belly—to help us relax and focus on the present moment. Life Skills: Focusing Target Ages: All ages

Leading The Game 1. Sit with your back straight and your body relaxed, resting your hands gently on your knees, and close your eyes if you’re comfortable. Notice what it feels like to breathe in and out right now. 2. Place one finger under your nose and feel your breath going in and out. Can you feel it? 3. Next, place your hand on your chest, above your heart. Can you feel your hand moving when you breathe? 4. Now place your hand on your belly and feel the movement of your breathing there. 5. Put your hands back on your knees and breathe naturally. Notice where you feel the movement of your breath most easily. Is it just beneath your nose, at your chest, or at your belly? 6. Now I’m going to ask you to make a choice and focus on your breathing where you feel it most. Wherever that is, that’s the place I’ll be talking about when I use the word “anchor.” We’re going to use this anchor for the rest of the game, so if you need to check again to see where it’s easiest to feel your breathing right now, go ahead. 7. Great. Let’s try this for a few more breaths together. See if you can keep your body relaxed and lightly rest your attention on your anchor at the same time. This is how we rest in the feeling of the movement of our breath.

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BigAppleParent 23

OUTINGS: Minnewaska State Park Preserve

nymetroparents.com/outings

Adventures with a View in Kerhonkson

Take in waterfalls, stunning cliff-edge views, and activities for everyone at the Minnewaska State Park Preserve. ›› By Melissa A. Kay

Courtesy New York State Parks

Courtesy Nicholas Margin

Courtesy New York State Parks

1 An aerial view of the vast landscape of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. 2 Guided hikes provide a group environment to take in the surroundings, including numerous waterfalls, while community conservation days provide an opportunity to clean up the park and give back. 3 Mountain laurels bloom in abundance during the early summer in Minnewaska State Park Preserve. 4 Nature-focused and family-friendly events take place year-round, giving kids of all ages an opportunity to interact with and learn more about their natural surroundings. 5 Minnewaska State Park Preserve is home to a Bird Conservation Area and has an Early Morning Birders program from April to October.

panning more than 23,000 acres of wild and scenic land, Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Ulster County is the largest of six New York state parks holding the distinction of being classified and protected as a park preserve. Take a hike, take a swim, and take in the picturesque views.

Year-Round Fun

Minnewaska State Park Preserve rests on land that used to hold a thriving mountaintop resort, dating back to the late 1870s. The park was founded in the early 1970s, and gained distinction as a park reserve in 1993. Set on the Shawangunk Mountain ridge, the park includes several waterfalls, sheer cliffs, dense hardwood forests, and four crystalline sky lakes fed by rainwater. Rock climbing is permitted and visitors can swim and scuba dive in the lifeguarded swimming areas of Lake Minnewaska and Lake Awosting in the summer. The park has a total of 85 miles of carriage roads, footpaths, and wood roads, on 24

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

which families can enjoy horseback riding, biking, hiking, snowshoeing, or even crosscountry skiing. The Shawangunk Ridge, a 500-foot tall prominent cliff, is home to rare plants and animals. Peregrine falcons are known to nest along the cliff lines of the ridge. Stop by the 3,000-square-foot Sam’s Point Visitor Center to learn more about the area.

Annual Events

A guided outing, Tuesday Trek, is offered the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from October to May. Depending on the weather, participants may rent snowshoes. Kids who are home-schooled can join others for an afternoon of nature and discovery through the Homeschooler Programs, offered the first Thursday of each month from March to June and September to December in the afternoon. I Love My Park Day, held on May 6, will mark the sixth year of the statewide event to improve and enhance New York’s state parks and historic sites. Volunteers will clean

up parklands and beaches, plant trees and gardens, restore trails and wildlife habitat, and more. Volunteer Trails Day on Sept. 17 is another opportunity to show the park some love by volunteering to help clean up.

April Highlights

Minnewaska State Park Preserve is home to a Bird Conservation Area. The Early Morning Birders program is designed for birding enthusiasts or those just looking to learn the basics and will be led by experienced birding volunteers and park naturalists. The family-friendly program runs Tuesday mornings from April to October. Bring your binoculars to see what you can find!

Details

Address: 5281 Route 44-55, Kerhonkson Directions: Approximately a 1-hour, 50-minute drive from Midtown Hours: Visit the website for seasonal hours Admission: $10 per vehicle For more information: 845-255-0752 or parks.ny.gov/parks/127

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Ideas When You Need Them:

Sign up for our FREE newsletter & never hear “I’m bored!” again. We email the top kids’ events every Thursday—just in time to make weekend plans!

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Turn the page for details on Street Games 2017 (No. 7 on our list).

APRIL

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WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar

EDITOR: EMMA STEVEN nyccalendar@davlermedia.com

CALENDAR 28 Editor’s Hot Tickets

33 Once Upon a Time

30 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!, Movers & Shakers

34 Fun Fairs & Festivals, Smarty Pants

31 Crafty Kids

36 Show Time!, Special Needs

32 Holiday Fun, The Great Outdoors

EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the 10 events we consider can’t-miss—the ones we’re taking our own kids to. Consider it your cheat sheet to the best of what’s great this month!

Family Treasures

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 12-4pm WHERE: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Learn from experts how to store family treasures such as photo albums, trinkets, and marriage certificates. Hands-on workshops, giveaways, preservation tips, and lots of family stories. WHY WE LOVE IT: Heirlooms can preserve our families’ stories for generations to come—but only if they’re carefully preserved. WANT TO GO? $10, $5 seniors and students; free for children younger than 12. 855-955-6688. mocanyc.org.

NYC Fire Museum Easter Egg Hunt

WHEN: Sunday, April 9, 10am WHERE: NYC Fire Museum, 278 Spring St., Soho AGES: All WHAT: Search for eggs on the apparatus floor of Engine 30 and meet the FDNY and EMS mascots. WHY WE LOVE IT: This event delivers a double whammy of firetrucks and Easter eggs! WANT TO GO? $8; $5 children ages 3-12. 212-691-1303. nycfiremuseum.org.

Tilt Kids Festival: The 7 Fingers: ‘Cuisine and Confessions’

WHEN: April 11-16, Tuesday-Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday, 2pm and 8pm; Sunday, 3pm WHERE: NYU Skirball Center for Performing Arts, 566 LaGuardia Place, Greenwich Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Part of the Tilt Kids Festival, this production combines the Montreal-based circus with cooking. 28

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHY WE LOVE IT: Acrobatics, kitchen appliances, food tastings, and music are the recipe for great show. WANT TO GO? $45 and up. 212-998-4941. tiltkidsfestival.org.

Earth Day New York FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 18, 12-7pm WHERE: Union Square, 33 E. 17th St., Union Square AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Earth Day as part of this annual environmental wake-up call. This event features information, entertainment, exhibits, activities for kids, and more. WHY WE LOVE IT: Educate the next generation about environmental activism. WANT TO GO? 212-622-0165. earthdayny.org.

The New York International Auto Show

WHEN: April 14-23, Monday-Saturday, 10am-10pm; Sunday, 10am-7pm WHERE: Javits Convention Center, 655 W. 34th St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: The oldest and most famous automotive show in the U.S. As well as all the new cars on show, many exhibitors have activities specifically for kids. Strollers are welcome. WHY WE LOVE IT: In addition to kids activities, there are lots of things to climb into. WANT TO GO? $17; $7 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 212-216-2000. autoshowny.com.

Annual Big Swim Big Kick FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 29, 11am-4:30pm WHERE: Asphalt Green: Upper East Side Campus, 1750 York Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 5-12

WHAT: Kids can take part in a swim meet in an Olympic-size pool and play soccer-based games on an outdoor turf field. Meet two-time Olympic swimming gold-medalist Maya DiRado, and watch a showcase of divers, synchronized swimming, and professional soccer freestylers. WHY WE LOVE IT: This annual event is a blast and totally free! WANT TO GO? 212-369-8890. asphaltgreen.org.

Street Games 2017 FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 29, 11am-3pm WHERE: Thomas Jefferson Park, 114th Street and First Avenue, East Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Ditch the screens and have some fun with classic, low-tech street games from the ’60s and ’70s. Have fun with stickball, pogo sticks, Hula-Hoops, double Dutch, and more. There will also be food and performances by a yo-yo master, hip-hop breakdancers, and the Dance Theatre of Harlem. WHY WE LOVE IT: Introducing a new generation to classic games. WANT TO GO? 212-360-1319. nycgovparks.org.

‘Wild Kratts LIVE!’

WHEN: Sunday, April 30, 2pm and 6pm WHERE: Beacon Theatre, 2124 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Learn about the natural world and have fun with puppets, animation, and the Kratt brothers themselves. WHY WE LOVE IT: A chance to see the PBS hit show come alive on stage. WANT TO GO? $45 and up. 212-465-6225. beacontheatrenyc.com.

Tribeca Film Festival

WHEN: April 19-30, see website for schedule WHERE: Multiple venues around New York City AGES: 9 and older WHAT: The 16th annual Tribeca Film Festival returns to the neighborhood. One of the highlights for families is the chance to see a free screening of Aladdin to celebrate its 25-year anniversary, featuring the voice of Brad Kane—Aladdin himself—performing a soundtrack favorite in a special pre-film sing-along. WHY WE LOVE IT: This year’s festival has more free family screenings than ever before. WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 212-941-2400. tribecafilm.com/festival.

LC Kids Presents ‘Campfire’ for Audiences on the Autism Spectrum

WHEN: April 15-30, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Lincoln Center, Clark Studio Theater, 165 W. 65th St., 7th Floor, Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A special version of Campfire for children with ASD and other developmental delays. This magical theater company uses puppetry and innovative staging to take audiences on a sensory trip to the great outdoors. Tickets are by application only, see website for details. WHY WE LOVE IT: Families with children on the spectrum will enjoy the tailored modifications of the show. WANT TO GO? $18; $12 members. 212-957-1709. family.lincolncenter.org. ››

STEM Camps

from pre-k to tween!

ages 4 -13

summer 2017:

real world math + science... out of this world fun!

• • • • •

coding with Scratch coding with Python digital animation LEGO® WeDo robotics Hummingbird robotics

• • • • •

physics rocket science engineering ScratchJr chemical reactions

Also at Launch: Math Programs • STEM Classes • Holiday Camps • Private Instruction 5 Manhattan summer locations • www.launchmath.com • 212-600-1010 • info@launchmath.com BigAppleParent 29

MOVERS & SHAKERS 14th Annual Colon Cancer Challenge

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 2, 8am WHERE: Randall’s Island, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: All WHAT: A fundraising run or walk for colon cancer awareness and prevention with a 5k route, walking route, and a kids race. WANT TO GO? $45. 914-305-6674. coloncancerchallenge.org.

Teen Nights FREE

Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the five no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome.

WHEN: Through April 7: Fridays, 4-7pm WHERE: Battery Park City Parks Conservancy, 6 River Terrace, Battery Park City AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Teens can drop in to this free session to meet friends and make new ones. Play table tennis, foosball, life-size chess, and more. WANT TO GO? 212-267-9700. bpcparks.org.

LC Kids Presents Artists at the Atrium: Gustafer Yellowgold FREE

NYRR Spring Youth Run FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 11am and 2pm WHERE: David Rubenstein Atrium, 61 W. 62nd St., Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: A chance to see a free show from Morgan Taylor’s beloved animated visitor from the sun. The surreal character appears using live music, animation, and storytelling to bring his adventures to life. WANT TO GO? 212-875-5000. kids.lincolncenter.org.

Tilt Kids Festival: ‘The Emperor and the Nightingale’ FREE

WHEN: April 1-2, Saturday-Sunday, 4pm WHERE: FIAF: Le Skyroom, 22 E. 60th St., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Stage actor Nicolas Bouchaud and cellist Sonia Wieder Atherton join forces to perform an original, musical rendition of Hans Christian Anderson’s fairytale performed in French. WANT TO GO? 646-388-6677. tiltkidsfestival.org.

Spring Family Day FREE

WHEN: April 1-2, Saturday-Sunday, 12-4pm WHERE: Carnegie Hall, Resnick Education Wing, 881 Seventh Ave., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Conduct an ensemble, build and play musical instruments created from everyday objects, and enjoy live performances at this afternoon of fun for families. Admission is granted on a first-come, first-served basis. WANT TO GO? 212-247-7800. carnegiehall.org.

Annual Shearing of the Heather FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 10:30am WHERE: Fort Tryon Park, Heather Garden, Cabrini Boulevard and Fort Washington Avenue, Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Annual rite of spring in Fort Tryon Park. Bring your musical instruments for a parade through the Heather garden, take part in a scavenger hunt, make crafts, and have your face painted. WANT TO GO? 212-795-1388. forttryonparktrust.org.

New York Tartan Day Parade FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 2pm WHERE: Sixth Avenue, West 45th to West 55th streets, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Get your kilts and pipes and make your way to this annual march celebrating Scottish culture. If you like bagpipes head down to Bryant Park before the parade at 11:30am to hear the pipers and drummers warming up. WANT TO GO? nyctartanweek.org. 30

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, April 9, 11am WHERE: Central Park, The Great Lawn, 85th Street, Central Park AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Shake off the winter blues by running 1.7 miles through Manhattan’s most famous park. The event will be staged in multiple heats for varying age groups. WANT TO GO? nyrr.org.

Watson Adventures’ Secrets of Central Park Family Scavenger Hunt

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 10:30am WHERE: Central Park, Fifth Avenue and 64th Street, Central Park AGES: 7 and older, adult WHAT: Explore the park below 72nd Street as your search for clues. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $22; $18 children ages 7-17. 877-946-4868. watsonadventures.com.

23rd Parkinson’s Unity Walk

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 8:30-11:30am WHERE: Central Park, starts at 72nd Street Bandshell, Central Park AGES: All WHAT: The annual 1.4 mile walk in Central Park gathers thousands of participants including patients, caregivers, family, and friends all walking together in the largest grassroots fundraiser for Parkinson’s disease research in the United States. WANT TO GO? Donations accepted. 866-789-9255. unitywalk.org.

Butterfly Yoga

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 2-3pm WHERE: Karma Kids Yoga, 25 W. 23rd St., 3rd Floor, Chelsea AGES: 3-8 WHAT: In this special class, kids will learn about the butterfly lifecycle and transform into butterflies themselves. Kids will decorate and flutter home in their own set of butterfly wings. WANT TO GO? $40. 646-638-1444. karmakidsyoga.com.

Gymnastics Kids Night Out

WHEN: April 7-28, Fridays, 6-9pm WHERE: 92 Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Gymnastics coaches lead a fun-filled evening of gymnastics, playtime, races, games, arts and crafts, dance, singing, pizza, and more. WANT TO GO? $45. 212-415-5500. 92y.org.

CRAFTY KIDS

Easter Eggstravaganza Children’s Art Workshop

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 10am and 2pm WHERE: Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Kids will decorate eggs using tissue paper, glitter, glue, and paint, and create nests for them. Bring two hard-boiled eggs per child. WANT TO GO? $10. 212-843-9381. stjohndivine.org.

FamilyDay@theCenter: Animal Architecture

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place, Greenwich Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Families will explore various homes for different animals, then design and build a model of an animal habitat. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $6; $12 children. 212-358-6133. cfafoundation.org.

Target Family Day FREE

WHEN: April 10-14, Monday-Friday, 11am-3pm WHERE: Cooper Hewitt Museum, 2 E. 91st St., Upper East Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: School break program that combines hands-on art workshops with storytelling in the galleries. WANT TO GO? 212-358-6135. cooperhewitt.org.

Drip Drawings

WHEN: April 15-16, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Young artists will make “Drip Drawings” by creating a squeezed paint illustration, hanging it while wet and allowing gravity to abstract their work. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1; seniors pay as you wish. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Spring Break Crafts and Games

WHEN: April 11-21, Tuesday-Sunday, 11am-4pm WHERE: Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, 421 E. 61st St., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Make a 19th-century craft and play historic games. If the weather is nice, there will be a collection of wooden toys outside in the garden. WANT TO GO? $8; $7 seniors and students; free for children younger than 12. 212-838-6878. mvhm.org.

Origami USA Special Sessions

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 10:30am and 2:30pm WHERE: The American Museum of Natural History, 15 W. 77th St., Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn the ancient art of paperfolding at these classes run by OrigamiUSA. Some experience required. WANT TO GO? $35. 212-769-5635. origamiusa.org/specialsessions.

Shadow Puppets

WHEN: April 29-30, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Help CMA celebrate the birthday of South African artist William Kentridge by making shadow puppets inspired by his work. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1; seniors pay as you wish. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Art Lab: Nature FREE

WHEN: April 6-30, Saturday-Thursday, 10:30am-4:30pm; Friday, 10:30am-6:30pm WHERE: The Museum of Modern Art, 4 W. 54th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Discover how artists and designers are inspired by the natural world in a new multi-sensory installation. Create a nature-inspired design, and draw and arrange natural materials. WANT TO GO? 212-708-9805. moma.org/artlab.

Family Sundays at the Rubin Museum

WHEN: Through May 28: Sundays, 1-4pm WHERE: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St., Chelsea AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Sunday workshop for families, linked to the various exhibitions in the museum and traditions from the Himalayan and neighboring regions. April’s workshops are all about sound, including the chance to record an OM to be included in the world’s largest OM. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 seniors and students; free for children 12 and younger. 212-620-5000. rubinmuseum.org. ››

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NYC Easter Parade FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 16, 10am-4pm WHERE: St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Fifth Avenue, between 49th and 57th streets, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Every year New Yorkers show off their Easter bonnets in this parade that marches north on Fifth Avenue, starting at 49th Street. Come and watch or even bring your own bonnet. The best place to watch is from the area around St. Patrick›s Cathedral. WANT TO GO? saintpatrickscathedral.org.

Vacation Week Art Workshop: Animal Character Puppets

HOLIDAY FUN

WHEN: April 13-16, Thursday-Friday and Sunday, 1-4pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Create a fantastical animal or character from the Passover story. Be inspired by the quirky world of artist Charlemagne Palestine and his sculptures of stuffed animals and found objects. WANT TO GO? $15; $12 seniors; $7.50 students; free for children. 212423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

Freedom Art Jam: Art and Dance Party for Passover

CMOM’s Annual Museum-Wide Easter Egg Hunt

WHEN: Sunday, April 9, 12-4pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Passover extravaganza with art, music, and dancing. Boogie to the soulful sounds of Vered and the Babes, create a musical instrument, craft a unique storybook, and add to a giant sculptural Seder plate installation. WANT TO GO? $15; $12 seniors 65 and older; $7.50 students; free for children. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

Matzo Madness

WHEN: Sunday, April 9, 11am-1pm WHERE: Eldridge Street Synagogue, 12 Eldridge St., Chinatown AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Moses, mystery, music, and matzo. A fun family event as part of Passover preparation. WANT TO GO? $20 per family. 212-219-0302. eldridgestreet.org.

TNF’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt & Bunny Fun

The Amazing Going Green Scavenger Hunt

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 1:30-5:30pm WHERE: Slattery’s Midtown Pub, 8 E. 36th St., Midtown AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Scavenger hunt to celebrate Earth Day and sustainability in New York City. A series of clues leads you around the city performing physical and mental challenges along the way. The hunt is run through an app called ScanQuest. WANT TO GO? $39. 718-344-8962. pogoevents.com.

WHEN: Saturday, April 15, 10:30am-3:15pm WHERE: Sakura Park, Riverside Drive and 122nd Street, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: This event features five egg hunts spread over the course of five hours. There will also be a photo opportunity with the Easter Bunny, snacks, and gifts. WANT TO GO? $25-$40; $13 for children younger than 1. 917-8306485. thinknfunnyc.com.

Celebrate Earth Day

NYSoM Easter Eggstravaganza 2017 FREE

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

WHEN: Saturday, April 15, 12-3pm WHERE: Target East Harlem Community Garden, 415 E. 117th St., between First and Pleasant avenues, East Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Easter fun for kids and families. There will be egg hunts every 15 minutes (first-come, first-served), egg painting, arts and crafts, and the Easter Bunny of course. WANT TO GO? nysomgroup.org.

Easter Kids Party Cruise

WHEN: Saturday, April 15, 1pm WHERE: Skyport Marina, 23rd Street and FDR Drive, Peter Cooper Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The Easter Bunny takes to the high seas with this kids cruise. Plus, enjoy entertainment such as balloon sculpting and face painting. WANT TO GO? $35; free for children younger than 1. eventbrite.com. 32

WHEN: April 15-18, Saturday-Tuesday, 10am-4:45pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Head down to CMOM for four days of egg and scavenger hunts. WANT TO GO? $12; $10 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 212721-1223. cmom.org.

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: Show your support for the environment by creating artwork out of recyclable or natural materials. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1; seniors pay as you wish. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Macy’s Flower Show 2017 FREE

WHEN: Through April 9: Monday-Friday, 9am-9:30pm; Saturday, 10am9:30pm; Sunday, 11am-8:30pm WHERE: Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W. 34th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Macy’s Flower Show has delighted generations of New Yorkers with its over-the-top presentations featuring millions of live flowers and lavish gardens. This year’s theme is a celebration of the iconic American carnival. WANT TO GO? 212-695-4400. macys.com.

Little Hell Gate Salt Marsh FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 11, 6pm WHERE: Randall’s Island: Little Hell Gate, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island

AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn about the ecology of Randall’s Island’s salt marsh, view wildlife up close, and learn how the island’s history has shaped our natural areas. WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Kids Week Manhattan: Payson Center FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 11 and Thursday, April 13, 2pm WHERE: Inwood Hill Park, Payson Center, Payson Avenue and Dyckman Street, Inwood AGES: All WHAT: Kids workshops in Inwood Hill Park during spring break, with reptiles and amphibians on Tuesday and birding on Thursday. WANT TO GO? 212-795-1388. nycgovparks.org.

Discovery Walk: Belvedere’s Kingdom FREE

WHEN: April 14-29, Friday-Saturday, 10am WHERE: Belvedere Castle, Mid-Park at 79th Street, Central Park AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Discover why the park is a sanctuary for plants, animals, and humans. WANT TO GO? 212-772-0288. centralparknyc.org.

Fort Tryon Kids Workshop: Birds of Cabrini Woods FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 29, 9-10:30am WHERE: Fort Tryon Park, Cabrini Woods, 190th Street and Cabrini Boulevard, Fort Washington AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about the diverse bird habitat of the Cabrini Woods during this educational event. WANT TO GO? 212-795-1388. forttryonparktrust.org.

Storefront Science: After-School Pop-Up Program FREE

WHEN: April 11-May 5, Tuesday-Thursday and Friday, 3-5pm WHERE: Fort Tryon Park-Anne Loftus Playground, 741 Fort Washington Ave., Fort Washington AGES: All WHAT: Explore the natural world around you. Learn how to identify different trees and insects. Test and play with various science tools, and play interactive games. WANT TO GO? 212-795-1388. nycgovparks.org.

Discovery Walks for Families: Beginning Birders FREE

WHEN: April 1-May 20, Saturdays, 10am WHERE: Central Park, see website for locations AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Explore Central Park’s woodlands, and learn the basics of bird identification along the way. WANT TO GO? 212-860-1370. centralparknyc.org.

The Butterfly Conservatory

WHEN: Through May 28: Daily, 10am-5:45pm WHERE: The American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: One of the museum’s most popular, annual events, this exhibit features up to 500 live, iridescent, tropical butterflies. WANT TO GO? $27; $22 seniors and students; $16 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME LC Kids Storytime at the Atrium: ‘You Don’t Want a Unicorn!’ by Ame Dyckman FREE

WHEN: Friday, April 7, 11am WHERE: David Rubenstein Atrium, 61 W. 62nd St., Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Find out why unicorns make the worst pets. WANT TO GO? 212-875-5000. kids.lincolncenter.org.

Saturday Morning Storytelling with the Hans Christian Andersen Storytellers FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 11am WHERE: Scandinavia House, 58 Park Ave., Murray Hill AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Fairy and folk tales and fantastic adventures from Scandinavia and the far north. This session’s theme is heroes, heroines, and tricksters. WANT TO GO? 212-779-3587. scandinaviahouse.org.

Launch Event for ‘My Kicks’ by Susan Verde FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 9, 1pm WHERE: Books of Wonder, 18 W. 18th St., Chelsea AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join best-selling picture book author, Susan Verde for an afternoon of reading, art, and supporting a good cause. Parents and children are encouraged to bring a pair of gently used shoes for donation to charity partner Soles4Souls. WANT TO GO? 212-989-3270. booksofwonder.com.

Reading into History Family Book Club

WHEN: Sunday, April 23, 2pm WHERE: The New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Author Sue Macy will discuss her book Wheels of Change: How Women Rode the Bicycle to Freedom (With a Few Flat Tires Along the Way), then families will view artifacts related to women’s suffrage and cycling. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 seniors; $12 students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 4. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.

Gateway Storytime

WHEN: Saturday, April 1 and Monday, April 24, 10:15am and 11:15am WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West and 79th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Story hours in the Discovery Room. Space is limited and tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors; $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

Storytime at Books of Wonder FREE

WHEN: Through April 30: Saturdays, 11am; Sundays, 11:30am WHERE: Books of Wonder, 18 W. 18th St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: Weekly story time in the children’s book store. WANT TO GO? 212-989-3270. booksofwonder.com.

Storytime in Nolen Library FREE

WHEN: April 2-30, Sundays, 2-2:30pm; Tuesday-Thursday, 3-3:30pm WHERE: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Gather around to look, listen, sing, and have fun with picture books; then continue your adventure with a self-guided gallery hunt. WANT TO GO? 212-570-3961. metmuseum.org. ›› BigAppleParent 33

Earth Day Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, April 22, 11am WHERE: Museum of the City of New York, 1220 Fifth Ave., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Family activities to celebrate Earth Day. Learn about activism in New York, take part in a scavenger hunt, read books, and enjoy healthy snacks. Design a pot and plant a seed to take home. WANT TO GO? $18; $12 seniors and students; free for children younger than 19. 212-534-1672. mcny.org.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS MOCACREATE: Celebrate Qing Ming + Welcome Spring

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 1-4pm WHERE: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., Chinatown AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the Qing Ming spring festival to honor ancestors. Mold clay people, tea eggs, drumsticks, oranges, almond cookies, and more to create your very own Qing Ming picnic scene. Then celebrate the new beginnings of spring by making decorative pinwheels and other seasonal paper crafts. WANT TO GO? $10; $5 seniors and students; free for children younger than 12. 855-955-6688. mocanyc.org.

Matzapalooza! Reimagining Passover

WHEN: Sunday, April 2, 10am WHERE: Museum of Jewish Heritage, 36 Battery Place, Battery Park AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Annual event featuring food, arts and crafts, a Passover sing-along, and a photobooth at which you can dress up as one of the Passover plagues. WANT TO GO? $10. 646-437-4202. mjhnyc.org.

Sakura Matsuri 2017

WHEN: April 29-30, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 900 Washington Ave., Prospect Heights, Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate traditional and contemporary Japanese culture, featuring Taiko drumming, a cosplay fashion show, tea ceremonies, Kabuki dance, Samurai sword fighting, Bonsai kids’ workshops, and more. WANT TO GO? $30; $25 students and seniors; free for children younger than 12 and members. 718-623-7200. bbg.org.

Spring Family Fair

WHEN: Sunday, April 30, 2-4:30pm WHERE: Morgan Library & Museum, 225 Madison Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: A spring fair that celebrates literature and art. Visit Mr. Morgan’s historic library, dress up for a 19th-century photoshoot, write your own poetry, create crafts, and explore exhibits. WANT TO GO? $20; $13 seniors and students; free for children ages 12 and younger. 212-685-0008. themorgan.org.

SMARTY PANTS

Luna Park 2017 Season Opening

Discovery Room: Meet the Scientist

Egyptian Cultural Festival

Stroller Tour: Whitney Biennial

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 10am-8pm WHERE: Luna Park, 1000 Surf Ave., Coney Island AGES: All WHAT: Kick off the season at Coney Island’s Luna Park and celebrate the 90th birthday of the Coney Island Cyclone with games, live entertainment, and prizes. WANT TO GO? Free general admission; tickets required for some activities. 718-373-5862. lunaparknyc.com. WHEN: Sunday, April 9, 12-3pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Egyptian culture at this festival. Workshops include collaborative pyramids, mythological masks, and stories from the Nile River. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1; seniors pay as you wish. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

The Tilt Kids Festival

WHEN: Through April 16: See website for times WHERE: French Institute Alliance Française, 22 E. 60th St., Upper East Side and other venues citywide AGES: All WHAT: This festival of culture from around the world continues into April. Many events are free, check website for details. This month see a symphony inspired by terracotta warriors, hear stories from teenagers, see a world-class circus, a Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale, and more. WANT TO GO? See website for ticket prices. 212-355-6100. tiltkidsfestival.org. 34

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 2:15pm, 3pm, and 3:45pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West and 79th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Visit the Discovery Room for a chance to talk with AMNH scientists as they talk about their specialties. WANT TO GO? $22; $17 seniors and students; $12.50 children ages 2-12. 212-769-5100. amnh.org. WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 9:30-10:30am WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., Meatpacking District AGES: Newborn to 2, adult WHAT: Tour of the 2017 Biennial just for parents and caregivers of babies. WANT TO GO? $25 with admission: $22; $17 seniors; free for children. 212-570-3600. whitney.org.

Family Tour at Met Breuer

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 11am-12pm and 2-3pm WHERE: The Met Breuer, 945 Madison Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Share ideas and enjoy stories, sketching, and other gallery activities that bring works of art to life. This month, explore the exhibition Marisa Merz: The Sky Is a Great Space. WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors; $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-570-3961. metmuseum.org.

Family Fridays at MoMath: ‘Ready, SET, Go!’ FREE

WHEN: Friday, April 14, 6:30-8pm

Summer Dance and Theatre Camp WHERE: The National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Chelsea AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Join the authors of the card game SET, all about visual perception. Learn about the game and the connection between games and math. WANT TO GO? 212-542-0566. momath.org/family-fridays.

Kids Week Manhattan: Belvedere Castle FREE

WHEN: April 10-14, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Belvedere Castle, Mid-Park at 79th Street, Central Park AGES: All WHAT: Head to Belvedere Castle for a series of workshops for kids during spring break. Monday focuses on geology and rocks; Wednesday is trees; and Friday is bugs. WANT TO GO? 212-628-2345. centralparknyc.org.

July 11 – August 11 | Ages 3.5 – 10 Save $75 off through April 10th!

Dance! Sing! Act! Create! • Camps led by Broadway Professionals • Classes • Camps • Private Coachings • Trial classes

March Madness Sale going on now!

April School Vacation Week

WHEN: April 8-18, Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: The New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Scavenger hunt and drop-in crafts celebrating the new exhibit about Thomas Jefferson. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 seniors; $12 for students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 4. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.

212. 777. 4435

Serving Lower East Side, Gramercy, Union Square and PCVST locations. info@icandothatnyc.com • www.icandothatnyc.com

ARTech: Adventures in Art + Technology FREE

WHEN: Through April 29, Wednesday-Thursday, 3-7pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: 459 W. 14th St., Meatpacking District AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A two-month long series of workshops, installations, and interactive activities in STEAM subjects in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. WANT TO GO? $10. 212-889-0440. artech.splashthat.com.

Family Program

WHEN: Through April 30: Saturday-Sunday, 11am WHERE: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Pier 86, West 46th Street and 12th Avenue, Hell’s Kitchen AGES: All WHAT: The Intrepid runs programs to help families make the most of their trip to the museum. In April, explore paper planes and flying underwater. WANT TO GO? $24; $20 seniors and college students; $19 children ages 7-17; $17 veterans; $12 children ages 3-6. 212-245-0072. intrepidmuseum.org.

Shinique Smith: Secret Garden Laughing Place

WHEN: Through June 25: Thursday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling, 898 St. Nicholas Ave., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Part labyrinth, part abstract painting, children are encouraged to crawl inside and engage physically with this installation by Shinique Smith. WANT TO GO? $7; $4 children, students, and seniors; free for children 8 and younger. 212-335-0004. sugarhillmuseum.org.

Bring the world to their ﬁngertips. Arts & Crafts | Swimming | 2000 sq. ft. playground | Indoor and Outdoor trips

Mummies

WHEN: Through Jan. 7, 2018: Daily, 10am-5:45pm WHERE: The American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West and 79th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A brand-new exhibition to give you a chance to get up close to one of the largest collections of mummies housed in North America. Featuring mummies from ancient Egypt to pre-Columbian Peru, the exhibit uses high-resolution CT scans and forensic reconstructions so visitors can “see” what’s inside as well as out. WANT TO GO? $27; $22 seniors and students; $16 children. 212-7695100. amnh.org. ››

MORNINGSIDE SUMMER OF SCIENCE PROGRAM June 19 - July 27 Open to 2.5 - 5.5 year olds Apply Online: morningsidemontessori.org 251 West 100th Street | Between Broadway & West End Ave.

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WHERE: The Players Theatre, 115 MacDougal St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: The production includes a family workshop to create a sea creature, one hour before each performance. WANT TO GO? $32 and up. 212-475-1237. theplayerstheatre.com.

Galli’s ‘The Princess and the Pea’

SHOW TIME! Treehouse Shakers’ ‘Olive & Pearl’

WHEN: April 1-30, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 151 W. 26th St. 7th Floor, Chelsea AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Prince Prince is looking for a princess. It seems like the right woman shows up at his door, but she has to pass the Royal Pea Test! WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaternyc.com.

WHEN: Saturday, April 1, 1:30pm WHERE: BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, 199 Chambers St., Tribeca AGES: 3-8 WHAT: The story of a young girl named Olive, who is lovingly raised by her Granny, Pearl. The live music score combines traditional string instruments and melodies of Bluegrass, Irish Fiddle, and lullabies. WANT TO GO? $21. 212-220-1460. tribecapac.org.

‘Nivelli’s War’

Bring Ya Mamma: Brunch Stand Up Comedy Show

‘Ferdinand’

WHEN: Sunday, April 2, 12:30pm WHERE: Village Lantern Comedy Club, 167 Bleecker St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: A comedy show over brunch that you can bring your mom to. WANT TO GO? $10. 212-260-7993. eventbrite.com.

Tilt Kids Festival: ‘Fanny de Chaillé: The Teens Library’ FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 11am-4pm WHERE: Albertine Books, 972 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: This performance piece tells the stories of a series of teens, most of them recent immigrants to the U.S, who will tell their unique stories. WANT TO GO? 212-650-0070. albertine.com.

LC Kids: ‘Campfire’

WHEN: April 1-9, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Lincoln Center, Clark Studio Theater, 165 W. 65th St., 7th Floor, Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This magical theater company uses puppetry and innovative staging to take audiences on a sensory trip to the great outdoors. WANT TO GO? Call theater for prices. 212-957-1709. family.lincolncenter.org.

Circus 1903: ‘The Golden Age of Circus’

WHEN: April 5-16, Wednesday-Sunday, see website for show times WHERE: The Theater at Madison Square Garden, 4 Penn Plaza, Midtown AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A 1903 circus rolls into town with strong men, contortionists, acrobats, knife throwers, high wire, and more. WANT TO GO? $39 and up. 212-465-6080. theateratmsg.com.

WHEN: April 28-May 7, see website for show times WHERE: The New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Inspired by a true story, this production mixes music, magic, illusion, and one incredible journey. WANT TO GO? $16-$38. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org. WHEN: April 1-May 13, Saturdays, 12pm WHERE: The Kraine Theatre, 85 E. 4th St., East Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The poignant story of Tom, a single dad, struggling to go with the flow and raise his son in a world determined to make him fight. WANT TO GO? $15. 212-777-6088. horsetrade.info.

SPECIAL NEEDS AMC Sensory Friendly Screenings

WHEN: Through May 13: See website for show times WHERE: AMC Magic Johnson Harlem 9, 2309 Frederick Douglass Blvd., Harlem; and AMC Loews 84th Street, 2310 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Every month this program provides a special opportunity for families to enjoy films in a safe and accepting environment. In April see The Boss Baby, Gifted, Smurfs: The Lost Village, and The Fate of the Furious. WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 212-665-6923. amctheatres.com.

Open Play Community Day FREE

WHEN: Through Aug. 12: Saturdays, 10am-12pm WHERE: ATLAS Foundation for Autism, 252 W. 29th St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: Every other week, ATLAS welcomes members of the autism community and their families to drop in, play, gather, and connect in a worry-free environment where acceptance is the norm. WANT TO GO? 212-256-0846. atlasforautism.org.

‘Something’

WHEN: Through April 16: See website for show times WHERE: The New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Theater District AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This contemporary cirque troupe from Milan, Italy combines crowd-pleasing aerial acts with physical theater. WANT TO GO? $16-$38. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

Coming up next month:

‘The Little Mermaid’ the Musical by Michael Sgouros and Brenda Bell

MAY 6: Peter Rabbit Tales at NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, Greenwich Village

WHEN: Through April 23: See website for show times

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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ARTS IN ACTION VAP CREATIVE SUMMER ART CAMPS Two Week Sessions, Sunny UWS Studio, Amazing Artist Staff! A.M. CAMP, EXPLORING MULTI-MEDIUM ARTS: Learn techniques, ancient through contemporary, in drawing, painting, printing, collage, wearable art, Sketching Park Trips, and more!

P.M. CAMP, FINE ART: Trips to Metropolitan Museum to discuss, sketch, AND be inspired by ancient through contemporary art. Learn skills, and techniques of drawing, painting, sculpture. Teen portfolio development too! Camps for all skill levels. Enrollees for AM and PM camp bring lunch

www.ARTSINACTIONVAP.ORG | 917-741-2297 BigAppleParent 37

WHERE-TO GUIDE

Catch a Minor League Baseball Game ››

nymetroparents.com/where-to

Research by Sabrina Sooknanan

Courtesy Brooklyn Cyclones

Take the family out to a ball game! For a fraction of the cost of a Mets or Yankees game, you can check out some of the sport’s up-andcoming big hitters at a local minor league game and soak up tons of fun perks for kids, such as hanging out on the field before the game, meeting the players, and free admission to some games. Please note that dates and prices are projected for the season. We recommend confirming details before heading out to the ballpark. Season begins April 20; home game April 28 Tickets: $12-$15; discounts for groups of 25 or more Kids ages 14 and younger can join the Kids Club for discounts and special events. Members are invited to Kids Club Day, when they can go on a behind-the-scenes tour of Bethpage Ballpark and get a chance to run the bases. Somerset Patriots TD Bank Ballpark, 1 Patriots Park, Bridgewater, NJ somersetpatriots.com Season begins April 21 Tickets: $9-$25 Children can join the Somerset Sluggers Kids Club for special opportunities such as posing with the entire Somerset Patriots team in the Somerset Sluggers team poster, exclusive Q-and-A’s with Patriots Players, and ballpark tours. AllStar birthday parties are available.

Sandy the Seagull and a young fan participate in the mascot race, one of the many in between inning contests that help make games at MCU Park so much fun from start to finish.

New York City Brooklyn Cyclones Class A Short-Season New York-Penn League (New York Mets) MCU Park, 1904 Surf Ave., Coney Island, Brooklyn brooklyncyclones.com Season begins June 17 Tickets: $10-$17 in advance Through the Field of Dreams program, youth baseball, softball, and Little League teams can stand side by side, in uniform, with the Cyclones while the national anthem plays at the start of the game (you must purchase a minimum of 15 tickets to participate in this program). Fireworks are free after every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday home game. On Sunday Fundays, kids can run the bases after the game and get the chance to play catch on the field before the game. 38

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Staten Island Yankees Class A Short-Season New York-Penn League (New York Yankees) Richmond County Bank Ballpark, 75 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island siyanks.com Season begins June 19 See website for ticket prices. The stadium offers group tickets that include discount ticket prices, fan gear, a chance for kids (ages 12 and younger) to run the bases after the game, and the opportunity to join Scooter’s Kids Club.

Atlantic League of Professional Baseball Double A – Triple A

Long Island Ducks Bethpage Ballpark, 3 Court House Drive, Central Islip liducks.com

Bridgeport Bluefish The Ballpark at Harbor Yard, 500 Main St., Bridgeport, CT bridgeportbluefish.com Season begins April 28 Tickets: $12; discounted rates for groups of 20 or more Kids ages 13 and younger can join the Kids Club for special events and activities throughout the season and during the off-season. Young athletes can join a Youth League Outing to accompany the players on the field during the national anthem, join the players on the field during team introductions, play catch with the players before the game, and more; see the website for details. Lancaster Barnstormers Clipper Magazine Stadium, 650 N. Prince St., Lancaster, PA lancasterbarnstormers.com Season begins April 21; home game April 28 Tickets: $7-$13

Several ticket packages available for groups and families. Children ages 12 and younger can gain one free lawn admission ticket if they wear their local, organized sport uniform to any home game.

The Baseball Buddies program allows youngsters to be introduced like the pro players and take the field with the Jackals for the national anthem. See website for details.

York Revolution PeoplesBank Park, 5 Brooks Robinson Way, York, PA yorkrevolution.com Season begins April 28 Tickets: $8-$14 Kids can join Rookie Revs ($27) for special events, and receive six ticket vouchers for any game.

Trenton Thunder Double-A (New York Yankees) Arm & Hammer Park, 1 Thunder Road, Trenton trentonthunder.com Season begins April 13 Tickets: $8-$13 The team offers Boomer’s Kids Club, presented by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia at University Medical Center Princeton at Plainsboro. The club is for fans younger than 12 and features special discounts, one-of-akind experiences, and on-field opportunities. Memberships are $25 for the first child and $10 per child after.

New Jersey New Jersey Jackals CanAm League Yogi Berra Stadium, 8 Yogi Berra Drive, Little Falls jackals.com Season begins May 18 Tickets: $12-$17

Find the full guide at ›› nymetroparents.com/ballparks.

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE Rebecca School is a therapeutic day school for children ages 3 to 21, promoting the education and development of children with neurodevelopmental delays in relating and communicating, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. Our curriculum is based upon the DIR® (Developmental Individual Differences Relationship-based) model of Dr. Stanley Greenspan, which considers the variations in individual motor and sensory processing systems and tailors each child’s program to his or her specific needs. We are committed to celebrating each child’s strengths and supporting their limitations.

Learning Through Relationships Elizabeth O’Shea, Admissions Director (212) 810-4120 ext. 234 eoshea@rebeccaschool.org

40 East 30th Street NYC 10016 www.rebeccaschool.org

Attention Parents of Babies, Kids, Teens

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2. Select 1 favorite photo of your child (ages < 1-16) 3. Upload the photo (jpg or png) to Facebook 4. Share with friends and vote daily!

For a complete list of rules: http://nymetroparents.com/CoverContestRules Promotion period 4/24/17 - 6/9/17

BigAppleParent 39

Robert Dahey

SpecialParent

Chase Bailey, a 15-year-old chef with autism who is host of his own cooking show on YouTube.com, recently published The Official Chase ’N Yur Face Cookbook.

Chasing His Dreams

››

How a teen with autism overcame his food aversions to create a cooking show and cookbook Interview by Katelin Walling; recipes by Chase Bailey

hase Bailey is a 15-year-old chef with his own cooking show on YouTube and a recently released cookbook, The Official Chase ‘N Yur Face Cookbook—and he’s using part of the proceeds to set up his Chase Yur Dreams Foundation. That is a huge accomplishment on its own, but what makes it even more impressive is Chase was diagnosed with autism as a toddler, a diagnosis that includes severe food aversions, speech delay, and other developmental and physical issues. “Some doctors told my mom that I would probably never speak, and would not be able to take care of myself,” Chase said in his cookbook introduction. He goes on to reveal that when he was 8, he started watching cooking shows with his grandfather—Eat Street is a favorite— which helped him overcome his food aversions. “These cooking shows helped me to see that food could actually be fun, and a big part of traveling—which is one of my favorite things,” he said. Chase took a minute to tell us about his inspiration, how he overcomes challenges, and advice he has for others. Plus, he shares three of his own recipes with us.

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

What inspired you to write your own cookbook? I didn’t plan on doing a cookbook. But someone asked my mom if I would be interested, so she told me about it and all the amazing stuff that doing a cookbook would be. I already had a journal of recipes, so I thought, why not bring it to the world, right? How do you come up with your recipes? Sometimes ideas literally just pop in my head. Sometimes when I’m eating something or see food on a show, I start thinking about how I would make something like it with different ingredients. Are there any challenges you’ve had to overcome—both with your YouTube channel and cookbook—as a young man with autism? One of the challenges I have is speaking. I know the words I want to say but it takes time for me to put them in order. I have an acting coach who helps me speak properly for my shows and interviews. I also have challenges with fine motor skills. Sometimes my hand strength is not very good, so l use tools like a

chopper and food processor to help me in the kitchen. Everybody has challenges to overcome. We all do life with a little bit of help. Can you tell me about the Chase Yur Dreams Foundation (ChaseYurDreams.org)—its mission and goals? There are a lot of kids with autism who have challenges and dreams like me. I want to help them with education, jobs, and things they need to make their dreams come true. Do you have advice for other children on the spectrum, or with other disabilities, about pursuing their passion? Find out what you love to do and go for it! And ask for help!

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

Year Round swimming lessons (Private & Group) for Special Needs • Tots • Children • Teens • Adults

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In Autistic & Special Needs • Fear of Water Swim Team Prep • Stroke Correction Classes

If you could say anything to those without special needs about having an autism diagnosis, what would it be? People with autism have dreams and can do things, too. Autism is like having something special or an extra body part. You just have figure how to make it work for you.

As featured in/on: WABC, WNBC, PIX11 Morning News, USA Today, Washington Post & Associated Press

Recipes excerpted from The Official Chase ‘N Yur Face Cookbook by Chase Bailey with permission of Chase ‘N Yur Face Media LLC Jessica Nicosia-Nadler

Pigs In A Waffle Ingredients 4 Waffles (recipe below) 12 thin slices of uncured maple honey ham 8 slices of provolone cheese ½ cup breakfast slaw (recipe below)

Hostos Community College 450 Grand Concourse, Building C, Bronx www.swimswimswimisay.com • 917-902- 3184

Located 2-5 minutes from Manhattan at Hostos Community College

Directions 1. On a warm waffle, add 2 slices of provolone cheese, 3 slices of ham, and ½ cup of breakfast slow to one side of the waffle. 2. Gently fold over to make a sandwich. 3. When serving to guests, add a 4-inch toothpick to keep the sandwich closed. Waffle Recipe Ingredients 1¾ cup flour ¼ cup cornstarch 2 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 2 eggs 1¾ cup milk ½ cup canola oil 2 teaspoons almond extract

Directions 1. Preheat waffle iron. 2. Combine all of the ingredients together in a bowl and whisk until smooth.

3. Use cooking spray to grease waffle iron. 4. As waffle irons vary in size, follow the instructions for your waffle iron to determine how much batter to pour onto the waffle iron. Breakfast Slaw Mix Ingredients 2½ cups green cabbage rough shred ½ cup Fuji apples diced 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 1½ tablespoons chopped walnuts 1 tablespoon dried blueberries 2-3 tablespoons ranch dressing (use your favorite)

Directions 1. Combine all of the ingredients into a bowl and stir together. continued on next page ››

Camp Huntington A Special Camp for the Special Camper

90 Minutes north of NYC Call Today: 855-707-2267

www.camphuntington.com BigAppleParent 41

PBNA Panini (Peanut Butter, Nutella, & Apple) Has your child been injured at school? Has your school district failed to meet your child's educational needs? GDPC will stop at nothing to get your son or daughter the services and supports they deserve. Our clients have been awarded MILLIONS since we opened our doors in 2013.

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Atlas School 2017/2018

252 West 29th Street 3rd Floor New York, NY 10001 AtlasForAutism.org Embark on The Journey

212-256-0846/ 914-494-9888 Info@atlasforautism.org

We are multi-strategic in our teaching models and very sensory friendly! 42

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Ingredients Cooking spray or 1 teaspoon of butter 2 slices of whole-wheat sandwich bread or gluten-free sandwich bread 1 tablespoon Nutella 1 tablespoon peanut butter 1 small whole green apple Directions 1. Use a peeler to remove the skin from apple 2. Use a knife or slicer to slice thin slices of apple. 3. Spread Nutella on one slice of bread. 4. Spread peanut butter on the other slice of bread.

Sloppy Chase’s Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 small yellow onion chopped 1 tablespoon minced garlic ½ cup chopped yellow pepper ½ cup chopped orange pepper ¾ cup chopped cremini mushrooms 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper 1 pound ground lamb 2 tablespoons sloppy Joe seasoning 1 6 ounce can of tomato paste 1 cup diced fire roasted tomatoes with the liquid ½ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano 3-5 French Brioche hamburger buns or regular hamburger buns Directions 1. In a medium pan, heat oil on medium-high heat and sauté onions for 3-4 minutes. 2. Add in garlic, yellow peppers, orange peppers, mushrooms, salt, and pepper. 3. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes. 4. Add ground lamb into sautéed vegetable mixture and cook until meat is done. 5. Drain excess grease. 6. Pour vegetable and ground lamb

Jessica Nicosia-Nadler

‹‹ continued from previous page

5. Place desired amount of apple slices on top of the peanut butter and place the Nutella slice on top. 6. Brush a small amount of butter on the top and bottom half of the sandwich or spray the top and bottom of the Panini maker with cooking spray. 7. Place the sandwich in the Panini maker and cook until golden on both sides.

Jessica Nicosia-Nadler

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

mixture back into pan. 7. Stir in the sloppy Joe seasoning, tomato paste, and roasted tomatoes, and return to heat. 8. Blend all ingredients well and turn heat down to simmer. 9. Cover and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. 10. To make a closed faced Sloppy Chase sandwich, put ½ cup of mixture on ½ of the hamburger or brioche bun and top with ParmigianoReggiano. To make an open faced Sloppy Chase put ½ cup mixture on each half of the hamburger or brioche buns and top with Parmigiano-Reggiano.

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

COOKING CLASSES FOR KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS If your child has expressed an interest in learning to cook, check out these programs in Manhattan that offer cooking programs for children and teens with special needs. The Creative Kitchen 718-406-7506 thecreativekitchen.com events@thecreativekitchen.com The Everybody Can Cook class tailors its lessons to various abilities, reinforces developmental and social skills, and can accommodate special dietary needs within any of its healthful recipes. Parties and play dates can also be customized for children with special needs using The Creative Kitchen’s Everybody Can Cook curricula, which provides adaptations for children with diverse physical and developmental abilities. JCC Manhattan 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side 646-505-4444 jccmanhattan.org The JCC’s Jack and Shirley Silver Center for Special Needs offers two cooking-related programs for teens with special needs: Community Cooks and Foodie Friends. Community Cooks (free) is an inclusive monthly program in which teens work together to prepare a home-cooked meal for the B’nai Jeshurun/Church of St. Paul and St. Andrew Homeless Shelter. In the weekly Foodie Friends ($75 for teens with special needs; $25 for teens without special needs), teens can connect, cook, and deepen friendships while enjoying a meal the group made together. LilChefs.com Special Events Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Bronx, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, New Jersey 516-338-0552 lilchefs.com; paula@lilchefs.com Chef Paula offers hands-on workshops and birthday parties at your location for ages 3-14 that include chef hats and aprons, as well as a personalized recipe booklet specific to the event, for each young chef. All parties and workshops are

HELPS STUDENTS AT ALL LEVELS ACHIEVE RESULTS

conducted in an inclusive environment, and Chef Paula can customize an event specifically for children with special needs, geared toward different abilities. Recipes can also be created for various dietary needs, and every event includes multi-sensory components relating to sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound. Liza’s Kitchen 917-579-7498 lizaskitchen.nyc liza@lizaskitchen.nyc Liza’s Kitchen offers cooking lessons for one to four children, focusing on fun and healthy foods beyond the typical kid favorites (pizza, pasta, chicken nuggets), as well as baking lessons and birthday parties—all offered in your home. Liza has experience teaching in a Montessori environment and has worked extensively with children with special needs, so she can adapt lessons for children of varying abilities. The Manhattan Behavioral Center 124 W. 95th St., Upper West Side 646-480-5756 manhattanbehavioral.com Once a week, kids can participate in the cooking class, which incorporates songs, stories, and an adapted recipe. Children will shop for ingredients and practice social skills at the grocery store, and create a gourmet treat in the center’s kitchen. SparKidz at P.S. 6 The Lillie Devereaux Blake School 45 E. 81st St., Upper East Side 917-930-6446 sparkidz.org The Saturday program, held from 10am-4pm in an environment in which children with special needs can build friendships and participate in activities, includes culinary arts. Children will learn practical and more exotic types of cooking including breakfast and lunch preparation, as well as making pastries and ice cream.

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• We begin with an Academic Evaluation • We testify on behalf of a student, attend IEP or • We develop a customized learning plan 504 meetings, and visit the student’s school • We provide personalized instruction by • We update you on your student’s progress certified teachers at accredited centers • We offer flexible schedules TUTORING

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involved in the production of the program. GBS-BAPad17(3.55x4.7)_Layout 1 3/24/17 2:01 PM PageHLC1818MAN0317 1

The Gillen Brewer School

ounded in 1992, The Gillen Brewer School provides a familyoriented, early childhood program for children ages 2.8 to 10 years old with language-based and non-verbal learning disabilities. We offer a 12-month program that provides developmentally appropriate academic instruction, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, play therapy and counseling, music, art, science, technology, sports and physical fitness. Learning and growing in a secure and nurturing environment, our students develop the skills necessary to overcome challenges. We work closely with their families to instill self-confidence and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and independence.

Uncover the Specialness in Your Child The Gillen Brewer School 410 East 92nd Street, New York, NY 10128

Contact Joe Surak, Director of Admissions at 212-831-3667 or joe@gillenbrewer.com Learn more about us at www.gillenbrewer.com

BigAppleParent 43

SpecialParent

15 Questions to Ask When Looking For a Special Needs Tutor ›› There are lots of considerations when looking for a tutor for your child with special needs. A mom of six—two of whom have special needs—offers advice on how to find the right one. By Michaela Searfoorce

f your child is struggling in math, spelling, or reading, you might be considering a tutor. If so, there are a lot of options to consider: Home or tutoring center? What can you afford? How often can you meet? When you add into the mix a child with additional special needs, things can quickly become overwhelming. Fortunately, many tutors and tutoring services are experienced in working with kids who have special needs. Finding the right one may require a little more research on the parent’s part, but those seeking clients who have special needs should be happy to spend the time answering parents’ questions to ensure they are the right fit for your child. I spoke with two experts—Carol Lovallo, an educational development supervisor from Huntington Learning Center, and Emily Levy, Ed.D., the founder and director of EBL Coaching— who were friendly, knowledgeable about the field, and helped me come up with this list of 15 things you may want to consider when seeking out the right tutor for your child with special needs: What disabilities do your tutors have experience with? As all of us parents are painfully aware, different disabilities are not created equal. A tutor who has experience with dyslexia may not know what to do with learning issues caused by autism, ADHD, or OCD. Instead of starting with, “My child has _________,” or “Do you 44

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

have experience with __________,” I have found it more helpful (and enlightening) to simply ask, “What disabilities and special needs have you had experience with?” Lovallo, for instance, touted Huntington Learning Center’s special ADHD program, in which the centers offer individualized help to children diagnosed with ADHD from teachers who have had specific training. Do you have any special qualifications, certifications, or credentials? Dr. Levy says parents should be asking about what specialized and research-based techniques are being used. As just one example, her company specializes in the Orton-Gillingham method for students who struggle with reading. How long have you been tutoring? This apparently means “how old are you?” in our house. Tutors come in all ages and experience levels, but it’s important to consider who your children will enjoy learning from and listening to—with whom they’ll click. My children have made their preferences known loud and clear and we do our best to accommodate. My oldest son and daughter prefer someone “not old like mommy,” and do very well with young, energetic, qualified college students. One of my middle boys, however, responds best to a woman closer to my own mother’s age who has more experience and a calm, quiet demeanor (to balance him bouncing off the wall, perhaps?).

How do you handle disruptive behavior, acting out, and attention issues? What’s your discipline strategy? Look, I love my kid, but when he starts rapidly clicking his pen for the 90th time after being asked to make change for a dollar, I can lose my cool. In calmer moments I’m redirecting, using mini M&M’S as positive reinforcement, or offering extra screen time for a successful finish to our homework session. It’s comforting to know the tutor’s (or tutoring center’s) strategies. What’s your expertise in the content area my child is studying? Now that you know the tutoring center specializes in ADHD, make sure it has tutors who also are knowledgeable in Spanish, calculus, or whatever subject(s) your child is struggling with. Do you have special needs references I can speak to?  “Special needs” is the key phrase here, because while Joe’s mom might rave about this place, Joe might be a B student who needed some basic math test prep. How does Maria’s mom, whose daughter has an autism spectrum disorder and is upset easily by certain noises, feel about their approach? Even better, do they have any clients with your child’s specific disability who would be willing to speak with you? Do you tutor at my home or only on-site? You should be able to find what you need fairly easily, and don’t need to compromise on this; do what is best for you and your child. Huntington Learning Center offers on-site tutoring with locations nationwide along with a search function on the website that will bring up a map of its nearby centers. EBL Coaching has tutors at several locations around the New York City area, as well as tutors who travel to students’ homes. What will the environment be like? If tutoring won’t be taking place in your home, it’s important to understand the surroundings where your child will be learning. Since my son has sensory processing disorder it’s important that there aren’t loud electric pencil sharpeners being used while he’s around. During his lessons, distractions and loud noises from sources such as gum, bubble wrap, or balloons need to be avoided. Will you be tutoring my child alone or in a group? Think about what approach might be best for your child. Is he motivated by a group and enjoys being around other children? Or does she struggle with social issues and is easily distracted? Many tutors and tutoring centers have different approaches. Some may start with a 1-on-1 approach and then increase the number of students per teacher (a practice which can help promote independence in the classroom). If you only want 1-on-1 tutoring, let it be known. How much do you charge per session? Is there a sliding scale? Are other fees involved? Make sure your budget includes the extras, such as possible fees for materials or assessments. How long is each tutoring session? What hours are sessions available? If your child struggles with attention issues, you might want to seek out a place that offers shorter, more frequent sessions. But if you’re trying to squeeze meetings into an already-packed schedule of extracurricular activities and therapists, perhaps fewer, longer sessions are what you’re looking for. What’s your policy for cancellations and make-up sessions? Don’t forget to check the policy both ways. What happens if your child is sick? How much notice is required to be able to reschedule without a penalty? What happens if the tutor can’t make it? At a larger center, perhaps a substitute is available, but ask: Will the substitute be brought up to speed on your child before you arrive? How do you evaluate progress? And what happens if my child doesn’t make progress? While you as a parent need to be clear on what progress you’re looking for your child to make, it should also be made clear how the center or tutor evaluates progress. Is it through test scores and report cards, or anecdotes gathered from your child’s teachers?

Huntington Learning Center uses more than one approach to form a baseline against which progress is measured, including interviews with parents and teachers as well as research-based tests. Lovallo says Huntington Learning Center actually uses hundreds of different curricula so there is always another way for a student to learn the material. At EBL Coaching, Dr. Levy says each student is constantly measured against his or her original baseline. She assures me that if a student isn’t making progress or responding, the plan is tweaked immediately. How will you communicate with me, and how often? How can I contact you with concerns? Some places opt for in-person meetings, while others include written reports for parents. Will you work with and communicate with my child’s teachers? With six kids, in my house a unified front is sometimes the only way we get through dinner, time-outs, and especially school work. Lovallo says tutors should be in touch with teachers as often as parents—they try to meet with or reach out to teachers at least once a month to make sure progress is being carried over to the classroom.

Getting What You Need

This might seem obvious, but make sure that you explain your goals and ask for concrete steps on how they will be met. At the end of our conversation, Lovallo remarks, “You need to understand who is going to be working with your child. When you’re looking for a tutor, you want to make sure the person is qualified, and at our center what is important about us is that we are a research-based, professional institution.” This particularly hit home for me. Many excellent tutors and centers focus primarily on academics and their ability to raise your child’s test score and report card grades. However, this might not always be the main focus for a parent of a child with special needs. My oldest child is seven grade levels behind in math, exempt from New York state testing, and has an IQ hovering in the mid-70s. I just want him to be able to tell time and make change as he gets older. Make sure you and any potential tutor have the same vision for what your goals are and what progress you are seeking ahead of time. Michaela Searfoorce is a home-schooling mother of six children. She makes time to write in the wee hours. You can find more of her stories at thefoorce.com or thecentralparkzoo.com.

SPECIAL NEEDS MARKETPLACE

BAKSHI LAW C. Lara Bakshi

Special Needs Attorney & Special Education Specialist Providing a clear road map of the law and zealously advocating for you and your child.

WINNING Record against DOE & Districts Winning record at due process hearings including failure to provide FAPE and tuition reimbursement.

SPECIALIZING in disciplinary matters for both special needs and general education students. Suspensions • Expulsions • Manifestation • Determination Hearings

CALL 917-244-6133 to set up a consultation

305 Broadway, 14th Fl., NY, NY 10007 Sliding Scale Depending on Income

lara.bakshi@gmail.com • www.lawbakshi.com Servicing Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk Counties), NYC Boroughs, Westchester, Rockland and Upstate NY

BigAppleParent 45

camp GUIDE 2017 All My Children Daycare and Nursery School

Various locations; call for information or check us online Manhattan: 212-419-5416 Brooklyn: 347-708-7827 Queens: 347-708-7827 allmychildrendaycare.com info@allmychildrendaycare.com

Arts in Action Visual Art Program

Angela Tripi-Weiss, program director 711 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side 917-741-2297 artsinactionvap.org

Badger Day Camp

119 Rockland Ave., Larchmont 914-834-1084 badgersportsclub.com info@badgerdaycamp.com

Ballet Academy East

1651 Third Ave. 212-410-9140 balletacademyeast.com

Breakaway Hoops

646-776-2021 x0 Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm breakawayhoops.com info@breakawayhoops.com

The British International School of New York

20 Waterside Plaza 212-481-2700 x204 bis-ny.org; bis-ny.org/summer-camp info@bis-ny.org

Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens 37 W. 65th St. 212-582-9304 322 W. 45th St. broadwaydancecenter.com

Camp Huntington

56 Bruceville Road, High Falls 855-707-2267 camphuntington.com dfalk@camphuntington.com

Center For Architecture

536 LaGuardia Place 212-358-6133 cfafoundation.org info@cfafoundation.org

Children’s Museum of the Arts 103 Charlton St.

212-274-0986 cmany.org

ConstructionKids

The British International School Of New York, 20 Waterside Plaza Corlears School, 324 W. 15th St. Avenues: The World School, 259 Tenth Ave. Dwight School, 291 Central Park West Brooklyn Navy Yard BLDG92, 63 Flushing Ave., Brooklyn The Co-Op School, 40 Brevoort Place, Brooklyn constructionkids.com info@constructionkids.com

Corbin’s Crusaders Day Camp – for boys and girls ages 3½ –14

471 North St., Greenwich, CT 914-939-2969; 212-875-8174 Main office: 351 E. 74th St., 5th Floor 212-875-8174 Westchester office: 5 Eagles Bluff, Rye Brook 212-875-8174 corbinscrusaders.com info@corbinscrusaders.com

Galli Theater New York

151 W. 26th St., 7th Floor 212-731-0668 gallitheaterny.com galliny@gmail.com

Incarnation Camp

253 Bushy Hill Road, Ivoryton, CT 860-767-0848 incarnationcamp.org info@incarnationcamp.org

I Can Do That NYC

334 E. 14th St. 212-777-4435 icandothatnyc.com info@icandothatnyc.com

International Ivy

Office mailing address: 61 Maple St., #636, Summit, NJ 908-899-1338 iisummer.com lily@ivyprograms.com

Jeff Lake Camp

38 Jefferson Lake Road, Stanhope, NJ 973-347-1230 jefflakecamp.com jamie@jefflakecamp.com

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Jodi’s Gym

244 E. 84th St. 212-772-7633 25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 jodisgym.com

K12: The George Washington University Online High School

866-968-6463; 877-382-2015 k12.com; gwuohs.com

Kweller Advanced Test Preparation

Kweller Prep Manhattan: 370 Lexington Ave., Suite 800 Kweller Prep Queens: 104-40 Queens Blvd. Suite 1C, Forest Hills kwellerprep.com; info@kwellerprep.com

Launch Math & Science Centers 173 W. 81st St., lower level 212-600-1010 launchmath.com info@launchmath.com

The Little Gym

2121 Broadway, 2nd Floor (between 74th and 75th streets), Upper West Side 212-799-1225 tlgupperwestsideny.com 207 E. 94th St. (between Second and Third avenues), Upper East Side 212-787-1124 tlguppereastsideny.com 28 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, NJ 201-445-4444; tlgwaldwicknj.com 777 White Plains Road, Scarsdale 914-722-0072; tlgscarsdaleny.com

M.A.D. Sports Camp St. Thomas Choir School 202 W. 58th St. 917-822-3359 madsportsinc.com madsportscamp@gmail.com

MakerState STEM Summer Camp 845-399-9300 maker-state.com info@maker-state.com

Manhattan Soccer Club

1 Sherman Square, Room 6K 877-423-4MSC (4672) manhattansc.org soccer@manhattansc.org

Morningside Montessori School 251 W. 100th St. 212-316-1555 morningsidemontessori.org

MWS Student Camps

514-531-4193 mwscamps.com vanessa@mwscamps.com

New York Historical Society

170 Central Park West 212-873-3400 nyhistory.org/childrens-museum

Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan

Oasis in Central Park PS 84, 32 W. 92nd St. 646-698-1800 oasischildren.com centralpark@oasischildren.com Oasis Downtown Stacie Soto, camp director 718-596-4900 oasischildren.com downtown@oasischildren.com

Portledge Summer Adventures Portledge School

355 Duck Pond Road, Locust Valley 516-750-3104 portledge.org/summeradventures mworth@portledge.org

Pusteblume International Preschool and Afterschool Programs

244 W. 14th St. 212-206-1137 pusteblumenyc.org carola.grundmann@pusteblumenyc.org

SPARK Business Academy

Upper East Side and Downtown locations 703-371-3155 sparkbusinessacademy.com summercamp@sparkbusinessacademy.com

SPORTIME Summer Camps - Tennis and Sports, ages 4-17 212-427-6150 sportimecamps.com/nyc campsnyc@sportimeny.com

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts 185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900; usdan.com

York Theatre Company Musical Theatre Training Program Summer Intensive

619 Lexington Ave. (corner of 54th Street) 212-935-5824 x214 yorktheatre.org; rklink@yorktheatre.org

CAMP MARKETPLACE

SLEEPAWAY CAMP PROGRAMS AVAILABLE FOR CAMPERS AGED 6 TO 15

AMERICAâ€™S OLDEST CONTINUOUSLY RUNNING CO-ED CAMP!

Many activites to choose from including; Sports, Arts, Ceramics, Music, Woodworking, Ropes Course, Culinary & Waterfront options.

Affordable rates, 2,4,6 & 8 week sessions available. Beautiful 700 acre property with mile long private lake

Open houses on April 8th & 299th, 10am to 4pm. Contact us for more info and a brochure www.incarnationcamp.org - info@incarnationcamp.org - 860-767-0848 6

BigAppleParent 47

CAMP MARKETPLACE

SINCE 1983

FRENCH LANGUAGE CAMPS in Montréal

Manhattan Soccer Club is NYC’s largest and most successful soccer club that is committed to all levels of program development and competition, from training-only programs at the youngest ages (3-7- year-olds) to local travel teams (8-12 years old) to nationally-ranked elite teams (13-18 years old). Our program develops outstanding athletes on and off the field by providing professional leadership and consistent coaching, with an age-appropriate curriculum focused on technical training and player development. We are running tryouts for the Fall 2017 season in early May.

Residential and day camp options • • For campers ages 7 to 17 • Located at McGill University in the centre of Montréal

www.mwscamps.com office@mwscamps.com

For details regarding travel team tryouts, dates, and locations, and for our 3-7 years old training programs, please contact Rich Corvino • rcorvino@manhattansc.org.

www.manhattansc.org

KEEP CALM AND COME TO CAMP! Daily Swim Instruction at our onͲsite pool Themed weeks including circus & safari! Music Jam Sessions P.E. & Soccer Science & Technology Enrichment Coding Lessons (seniors) Maths & Literacy Games and much, much more! When: June 26th Ͳ August 4th 2017 Ͳ 9am Ͳ 3pm For: Boys & Girls 3 Ͳ 10 years old 20 Waterside Plaza, East 23rd St, NY, NY, 10010 ▪ www.bis-ny.org/summer-camp ▪ ▪ camp@bis-ny.org ▪ (212) 481-2700 ▪ ALSO INTRODUCING CONSTRUCTION KIDS! At The British International School of NY - visit www.bis-ny.org/summer-camp for more details!

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

CAMP MARKETPLACE

PREMIER COLLEGE

Preparatory School

The George Washington University Online High School offers small class sizes and personalized, intensive college advising for grades 8–12. With our academically challenging education, your student will be wellprepared for college. Our numbers tell the story! • 100% of our graduates are accepted to one or more colleges* • $2.7 million in college scholarships offered to our graduates this year* *Graduation acceptance percentage based on student-reported data from 2016 graduates who applied to college; Scholarship amount based on the cumulative total of all scholarships offered to students accepted into college for the 2015- 2016 school year.

Learn more at an online information session. Visit gwuohs.com/event or call 877.847.1165 for more details.

Galli Theater's Acting Camp for children between 4-10 years. Spring Break: April 10th -14th, 9:30 am - 2:30 pm Summer Camps: July 3-7, 9am -1pm • July 10-14, 9am-1pm July 17-21, 9am - 1pm • Aug. 21-25, 9:30am - 2:30pm Aug. 27-Sept. 1, 9:30am - 2:30pm

Held At:

CITY COLLEGE West 139 Street Convent Avenue, New York, NY 10031 HUNTER COLLEGE 695 Park Ave, New York, NY 10065 MOUNT ST VINCENT COLLEGE 6301 Riverdale Ave, Bronx, NY 10471 STUYVESANT HIGH SCHOOL 345 Chambers St, New York, NY 10282

646.776.2021

Galli Theater 151 West 26th street, 7th Fl. New York, NY 10001 tel: 212-731-0668 email: galliny@gmail.com www.gallitheaternyc.com B-DAY PACKAGES • SCHOOL SHOWS • WEEKEND PERFORMANCES AT 2PM

over 20 years experience allmychildrendaycare.com/uws | 212-419-5416 Upper West Side and Lower East Side locations BigAppleParent 49

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Children’s Museum of the Arts Week-Long Hands On Art Making Day Camps For Ages 6 –15

Empowering the next generation of tech makers + thinkers.

LOOK MAKE

SAVE $75

Discount code: BAPNY17 Kids and teens follow their passion for technology at Digital Media Academy STEM summer camps. Save $75 on an unforgettable summer experience learning Programming, Filmmaking, Music Production, Robotics, 3D Printing, Game Design, and more!

Spring Art Colony • March 20 – April 14 Summer Art Colony • June 19 – September 1 REGISTER TODAY AT CMANY.ORG! Children’s Museum of the Arts

cmany.org

Visit www.DigitalMediaAcademy.org to register. Offer expires 5/31/17.

103 Charlton St. NY, NY 10014

SPORTIME SUMMER CAMPS

LANGUAGE SUMMER CAMPS

Home of the John McEnroe Tennis Academy

German & Spanish immersion for preschoolers & school-age children 7 weeks of fun-filled activities and language exposure

Pusteblume International Preschool and Afterschool Programs 244 West 14th Street, New York, NY 10011 212-206-1137 info@pusteblumenyc.org www.pusteblumenyc.org

Call and about ou ask r Sc Break Ca hool mps!

Tennis Whizz Ages 3-5

SPORTIME U10 Ages 5-10

JMTA Tennis Training Ages 7-18

* Pusteblume International Preschool admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

NYCFC Soccer Ages 7-14

212-427-6150 | www.SportimeCamps.com/NYC

3950BAP

Find out about our Summer Camps across Long Island and the Hamptons, in Westchester and the Capital Region at www.SPORTIMECAMPS.com. Camp programs vary at each SPORTIME location.

@JMTANY

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

STEM Summer Camp Jul 3 - Sep 1

Ages 6-12

Coding & Game Design, LEGO Robotics, 3D Design, Minecraft Engineering, Moviemaking, Flying Machines

Laser Tag & Outdoor Play Every Day!

SPORTIME RANDALL’S ISLAND

Upper West Side - Upper East Side Lower East Side - Park Slope

www.maker-state.com

Learn to code with us!

Multi-Sports Camp

Train Like An Athlete

LUCY MOSES SCHOOL

Fun

Financial Literacy Camps for Kids!

Get MAD

St. Thomas Choir School 202 West 58th Street New York, NY 10019

CAMP MARKETPLACE

917-822-3359 madsportsinc.com madsportscamp@gmail.com

Unique financial education summer programs for ages 5-18 praised by leading business publications and local parents UES and downtown locations!

Save $100 with coupon code NYPARENTS

sparkbusinessacademy.com 703.371.3155

Summer Musical Theater Workshop Jun 28 – Aug 3 • Ages 6 – 18

yrs. of Fun, Frien ds, & Fitness !

Summer Musical Theater Workshop is New York City’s only Summer Musical program that gives attendees the chance to perform original musicals, written just for them. Register Now!

G re at Pe rk s Fo r M em be rs

KaufmanMusicCenter.org • 212 501 3360

NEED to plan the perfect party?

FIND venues, entertainers, suppliers, and other ideas to create the ideal party in our online Parent Resources Directory.

Flexible MP SUMMER CA scheduling se You choo the days! You choose the weeks!

V is it O u r To ta Awe s o mll y e Ne w ly Re n ova te d Fa c il ity !

Fo r K id s 9 mos to 12 yrs

Nothing Else Even Comes Close! Gymnastics • Music • Playtime • Camp • Sports Ninja Challenge • Jodi’s To Go • Best Birthdays Ever

www.jodisgym.com NYMETROPARENTS.COM

244 E. 84th St. NYC • 212.772.7633 25 Hubbels Dr. Mt. Kisko • 914.244.8811 BigAppleParent 51

Professional

services

Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals LEGAL SERVICES

BAKSHI LAW Offices in the Financial District, Long Island, and Westchester 917-244-6133 lawbakshi.com; lara.bakshi@gmail.com Bakshi Law specializes in special education law, representing parents and children with disabilities, attending suspension hearings, CSE, and resolution meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance on a sliding scale. SPECIAL NEEDS BAKSHI LAW Offices in the Financial District, Long Island, and Westchester 917-244-6133 lawbakshi.com; lara.bakshi@gmail.com Bakshi Law specializes in special education law, representing parents and children with disabilities, attending suspension hearings, CSE, and resolution meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance on a sliding scale.

EASY PEASY POTTY TRAININGGREATER NYC AREA 516-318-5228 easypeasypottynyc.com EASY PEASY POTTY offers a customized potty training plan specific to your child’s needs, and at affordable prices. Consultation can be offered on the phone or in person. Complete the intake form online to begin the process. LITTLE OPTICS INC. 192-07 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows, Queens 53-15 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside, Queens 718-468-7500 Hablamos Español littleopticsinc@yahoo.com We provide eyeglasses and professional eye care for children, including infants and young adults. We also alleviate any self-esteem issues associated with the stigma of wearing glasses. When your child leaves Little Optics, rest assured that they will feel confident.

OPEN HOUSES 2017

ESF Summer Camps at Greenwich Academy

200 N. Maple Ave., Greenwich, CT 203-869-4444 esfcamps.com/greenwich ESF Summer Camps at Greenwich Academy will have an open house on Saturday, April 29 at 1pm, 2:15pm, or 3:30pm. RSVP online at esfcamps. com/greenwich/open-house.

ESF Summer Camps at Riverdale Country School

5250 Fieldston Road, Bronx 718-432-1013 esfcamps.com/riverdale kgongol@esfcamps.com Join us for an open house, Saturday, April 29 at 1pm, 2:15pm, or 3:30pm. RSVP online at esfcamps. com/riverdale/open-house.

Incarnation Camp

253 Bushy Hill Road, Ivoryton, CT 860-767-0848; incarnationcamp.org info@incarnationcamp.org Come and take a tour of our beautiful 700-acre property and learn all about our summer programs for campers ages 6-15. April 8 and 29, 10am-4pm, with refreshments provided. Please RSVP to info@ incarnationcamp.org.

Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan

Oasis in Central Park P.S. 84, 32 W. 92nd St. 646-698-1800; oasischildren.com centralpark@oasischildren.com Join us for an information session for Oasis Central Park (32 W. 92nd St.), on April 26, May 10 and 17, and June 6 and 20, from 6:30-8pm at P.S. 84, and at April 4 at the Mandell School.

Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan Oasis Downtown Stacie Soto, camp director 718-596-4900; oasischildren.com downtown@oasischildren.com Join us for an information session for Oasis Downtown at P.S. 110, 285 Delancey St., on April 5 and 27, May 11 and 24, and June 7 and 15, from 6:30-8 pm.

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900; usdan.com Young artists flourish at Usdan. Be part of a Usdan visit and information session: April 2 and May 7 from 11am-2pm. RSVP at usdan.org/visit.

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

PartyCentral Your local guide to entertainers, party places, activities, and other resources. PARTY ENTERTAINMENT CLOWNS.COM Proudly Serving Westchester, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx 516-577-0000 718-971-5862 clowns.com We are a family-owned and -operated entertainment company, offering a wide range of party and entertainment services including clowns, inflatable bounce houses, characters, magicians, princesses, magic shows, face painting, and party concession rentals. DAVE’S CAST OF CHARACTERS 914-235-7100 davescast.com Make your party a special one! Dave’s entertainment services include more than 100 costumed characters. From princesses and superheroes to pirates and tea parties, there’s something for everyone. PARTY PLACES THE FASHION CLASS 21 W. 39th St. 646-329-6663 thefashionclass.com Learn from real fashion designers with a runway or sewing party this year in our 2500-square-foot, bright, sunny, and pink fashion studio! Guests can choose from a variety of our most popular sewing projects, or put on a full runway show! FUNFUZION AT NEW ROC CITY 29 LeCount Place (Exit 16 off I-95), New Rochelle Party Central: 914-637-7575, option 1 funfuziononline.com Calling all birthday superstars! You and your guests will be dazzled by a unique, interactive party experience! GALLI THEATER NEW YORK 151 W. 26th St., 7th Floor 212-731-0668 gallitheaterny.com galliny@gmail.com Party with the Galli Theater New York. We offer a party package for any need and budget! Whether you opt for a

personally selected private performance or a workshop party showcasing your little one’s skills, a Galli Theater Birthday is one you will never forget! JODI’S GYM 244 E. 84th St. 212-772-7633 25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 jodisgym.com Kids run, jump, climb, tumble, slide, bounce, and giggle to their hearts’ delight at Jodi’s Gym, where action-packed parties and unmatched experience have won children’s hearts for 34 years. LAUNCH MATH & SCIENCE CENTERS 173 W. 81st St., lower level 212-600-1010 launchmath.com info@launchmath.com Launch Math & Science Centers provide full service birthday parties featuring hands-on STEM projects as entertainment at the UWS flagship center or in the home! THE LITTLE GYM 2121 Broadway, 2nd Floor (between 74th and 75th streets), Upper West Side 212-799-1225 tlgupperwestsideny.com 207 E. 94th St. (between Second and Third avenues), Upper East Side 212-787-1124 tlguppereastsideny.com 777 White Plains Road, Scarsdale 914-722-007 tlgscarsdaleny.com 28 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, NJ 201-445-4444 tlgwaldwicknj.com A private party at The Little Gym is a perfect way to celebrate your child’s next birthday. Gymnastics, games, obstacle courses, trampoline, sports, and music are tailored to your child’s interests! PIER 62 CAROUSEL Pier 62 at Hudson River Park (by Chelsea Piers) 718-788-2676 pier62carouselnyc.com info@nycarousel.com Enjoy a classic carousel-themed birthday party—includes 2 hours in VIP party tent, unlimited rides, games, goodie bags, and a host to help.

FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE To advertise: 212-315-0800 or nympads@davlermedia.com

PARTY PLANNER

WEEKEND GETAWAYS

Join

NYMetroParents

Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions and receive special notices. www.facebook.com/nymetroparents

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ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS Jodi’s Gym............................................. 51 BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES Big Apple Parent Party Planner............. 53 Chelsea Piers........................................ 25 Galli Theater.................................... 37, 49 Jodi’s Gym ............................................ 51 Little Gym ..............................................11 Pier 62 Carousel.................................... 21 CAMPS All My Children Day Care...................... 49 Arts in Action Visual Art Program........... 37 Benswic Camps..................................... 31 Breakaway Hoops................................. 49 British International School of New York....48 Broadway Dance Center......................... 5 Camp Huntington................................... 41 Center for Architecture........................... 48 Children’s Museum of The Arts............. 50 DMA Camp............................................ 50 Galli Theater.................................... 37, 49 I Can Do That NYC................................ 35 Incarnation Camp.................................. 47 International Ivy..................................... 47 Jodi’s Gym ............................................ 51 Kaufman Music Center.......................... 51 Launch Math.......................................... 29 Little Gym ..............................................11 Mad Sports Camp.................................. 51 MakerState............................................ 50 Manhattan Soccer Club......................... 48 Morningside Montessori School............ 35 MWS Student Camps............................ 48 New York Historical Society................... 21 Oasis Children Services........................ 56 Pusteblume International School........... 50 SPARK Business Academy................... 51 Sportime................................................ 50 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts........... 2

CHILD CARE/DAY CARE All My Children Day Care...................... 49 University Settlement - Early Childcare......21 CLASSES Ballet Academy East.............................. 23 Breakaway Hoops................................. 49 Broadway Dance Center......................... 5 Center for Architecture........................... 48 Chelsea Piers........................................ 25 Children’s Museum of The Arts............. 50 Dance Workshop..................................... 9 International Ivy..................................... 47 Kumon North America............................. 7 SPARK Business Academy................... 51 Sportime................................................ 50 DANCE Ballet Academy East.............................. 23 Broadway Dance Center......................... 5 Chelsea Piers........................................ 25 Dance Workshop..................................... 9 I Can Do That NYC................................ 35 DEVELOPMENTAL Atlas Foundation For Autism................. 42 Huntington Learning Center.................. 43 MWS Student Camps............................ 48 SPARK Business Academy................... 51 Swim Swim Swim I Say......................... 41 University Settlement - Early Childcare......21 EDUCATION All My Children Day Care...................... 49 Atlas Foundation For Autism................. 42 Bakshi Law............................................ 45 Bright Kids Inc....................................... 37 British International School of New York....48 Center for Architecture........................... 48 Gillen Brewer School (The)................... 43 Gina DeCrescenzo, P.C......................... 42 Huntington Learning Center.................. 43 International Ivy..................................... 47 K12 ....................................................... 49

The Mandell School .............................. 12 Manhattan Charter School..................... 19 Morningside Montessori School............ 35 MWS Student Camps............................ 48 Public Prep Network.............................. 35 Pusteblume International School........... 50 Rebecca School.................................... 39 University Settlement - Early Childcare......21 FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS / OUTINGS Children’s Museum of The Arts............. 50 Gazillion Bubble Show (The)................. 12 Inn at East Hill Farm (The).................... 37 New York Historical Society................... 21 Pier 62 Carousel.................................... 21 That Physics Show................................ 37 FAMILY TRAVEL Inn at East Hill Farm (The).................... 37 RCT Security......................................... 37 FITNESS Benswic Camps..................................... 31 Chelsea Piers........................................ 25 Dance Workshop..................................... 8 Mad Sports Camp.................................. 51

RESTAURANT / FOOD SERVICES Voila Chocolat........................................ 17 RETAIL Natural Bunch Kids................................ 13 RCT Security......................................... 37 Voila Chocolat........................................ 17 SERVICES Geico Insurance.................................... 26 SPECIAL EVENTS Pier 62 Carousel.................................... 21 SPECIAL NEEDS Atlas Foundation For Autism................. 42 Bakshi Law............................................ 45 Camp Huntington................................... 41 Gillen Brewer School (The)................... 43 Gina DeCrescenzo, P.C......................... 42 Huntington Learning Center.................. 43 Rebecca School.................................... 39 Swim Swim Swim I Say......................... 41 SPORTS

HEALTH Affinity Health Plan................................ 55

Benswic Camps..................................... 31

HOME SERVICES RCT Security......................................... 37

Mad Sports Camp.................................. 51

LEGAL SERVICES Bakshi Law............................................ 45 Gina DeCrescenzo, P.C......................... 42

Sportime................................................ 50

MUSIC Kaufman Music Center.......................... 51 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts........... 2

Galli Theater.................................... 37, 49

PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING. I Can Do That NYC................................ 35 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts........... 2

Breakaway Hoops................................. 49 Manhattan Soccer Club......................... 48 Swim Swim Swim I Say......................... 41 THEATER TUTORS Bright Kids Inc....................................... 37 Kumon North America............................. 7 Kweller Prep............................................ 3

BigAppleParent 53

SpecialParent

VOICES

Powerful Tunes

››

How music lessons helped my child with autism and sensory processing disorder By Michaela Searfoorce

s a former music teacher, I pride myself on all of the musical ways my children learn in our household. We have mastered the continents, days of the week, months of the year, and even our phone number and address through songs. My kids still can’t say their phone number without singing it. My oldest son, James, was born with a chromosome defect and multiple disabilities, among them autism and sensory processing disorder. Needless to say, his sensory issues and my knack for singing loudly in the car or playing Christmas carols on the piano at home didn’t make for a peaceful household. Instead of me passing on my love for music, we stopped attending concerts and started avoiding birthday parties just to circumvent the pre-song anxiety and the post-song meltdown. At school, I was called in more than once after James had become overwhelmed by a choir concert or classmate’s birthday. It reached a point where it became a given that if his class was performing in an assembly, James would stay back in the classroom. Even movie soundtracks or church hymns were enough to make him put a blanket over his head and start crying. As a musician, this music-phobia was particularly upsetting for me. When James turned 7 we moved to Manhattan. New York City was chock-full of special needs everything, integrated classrooms, sports teams—and as I would soon discover, music classes. After being called several times to pick James up early due to birthday songs, fire alarms, and choir assemblies at school, I decided it was time for drastic measures. With minimal searching online I found Daniel’s Music Foundation, which provides music classes to children and adults with disabilities. When I contacted DMF we were asked to come in for an interview, after which James was formally invited to join in on a drumming and percussion class as well as a recreational music and movement session. Incredibly, James seemed at ease both during the interview and the initial classes, in which he was able to participate as much or as little as he felt comfortable. The volunteers were helpful and friendly, and the other students were eager while not without their own struggles, which seemed to comfort James. It was as if he knew that music was being explored and shared in a safe space, which made the exposure to it less frightening. It wasn’t until several weeks later, when James made it through his first classmate’s birthday without tears, that I realized something incredible was happening. Later that

month, he did not hesitate when we broached the topic about participating in a performance. “Do you want to sing with your class? Up on a stage in front of a crowd?” I asked. “Sure, why not? Everyone in my class will be there,” he reasoned. But even considering this amazing progress, it was with no small amount of anxiety that I headed to his first winter concert at the end of the semester. The auditorium was packed and the audience was very enthusiastic throughout the show. As James walked onto the stage for the last number, people began to cheer and clap along and I could see him starting to lose his composure. I felt a thrill of dread in my stomach—what had I been thinking putting James up on stage when he couldn’t even sit through his own birthday cake? As I watched James grow more and more agitated and began formulating his escape route, a young man hopped up onto the stage next to James and whispered something into his ear. It was Michael Trush, one of DMF’s founders. Within moments he and James were high-fiving and the song reached its conclusion, with Michael and James still standing together. James stood on stage wearing a nervous, but triumphant smile. That miraculous moment occurred eight years ago. I want to make the story more interesting and say it was a long road with detours and U-turns, with setbacks and trials, but it was nothing so dramatic. It was more like finally finding the right exit off of the highway and smooth sailing to our destination from that point on. Many semesters later, James has performed on stage with DMF nearly a dozen times, including with the New York Yankees during HOPE Week and on the field at a Brooklyn Cyclones game. He sings hymns loudly at church and “Happy Birthday” to his siblings. There is a continuous stream of Michael Jackson and John Williams blasting out of his room, and I still can’t help but smile when I ask him to turn it down a little.

Michaela Searfoorce is a home-schooling mother of six children. She makes time to write in the wee hours. You can find more of her stories at thefoorce.com and thecentralparkzoo.com

April 2017 | nymetroparents.com

State Senator Leroy Comrie and Councilman I. Daneek Miller, invite you to the

SPRiNG FLING FAMILY FUN DAY

Rain or Shine

SATURDAY APRIL 22nd 12PM-4PM St. Albans Park, Jamaica, New York (Between Sayres Ave and 111th Ave)

Activities will include: Kidz Zone games, arts and crafts, face-painting Music and live entertainment Health screenings for all ages Zumba class And much more!

For information about this event, visit:

AffinityPlan.org/SpringFling

For more information about Affinity, call:

866.731.8001

TTY/TDD Users: 800.662.1220 Social Media Icons 2017:

BigAppleParent 55

Premier camp in every way!

centralf mpaanrhakttan!

your he d n Spe er in t in m rk sum test pald! greathe wor

»Programs for ages 3-16 »8:30am - 5:30pm »Extended hours available »Healthy, hot lunch option »AC transportation available »Low staff/child ratios »Flexible enrollment

In the heart o

Fun For Everyone! »Sports, games & outdoor adventure »Visual arts, crafts & performing arts »Special events & theme days »Carnivals & color war »Traditional camp activities » Red Cross Swim Instruction

Join us for an info session! Central Park Location April 4th at 6:30 pm @ The Mandell School (795 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10025) April 26th at 6:30 pm @ PS 84 (32 W 92nd St, New York, NY 10025)

Visit our other location in Downtown Manhattan @ PS 110! (285 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002) April 5th & April 27th at 6:30 pm