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BigApple igApple Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM PARENTS.COM MAY 2018

Family Health Guide • Decode Your Baby’s Skin Rash • Medicine Cabinet Makeover • Surviving Teen Acne

10 Things to Tackle in Your New Home Insurance Gaps Most Families Have (And How to Fix Them Fast)

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

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contents table of

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

by Appaman (appaman.com)

may 2018

11 34

health

Keeping Kids Safe Online

Expert tips to protect your children on the Internet

Family Fun a Ride Away

Four venues to explore when you want to take a day trip to get out of the city

16 Medicine Cabinet Makeover 18 Decode Your Baby’s Rash

44

20 Nixing Zits & Boosting Self-Esteem 22 Health Directory

New Home—Now What?

Now that you’ve found the perfect house for your family, there are things you‘ll want to take care of.

raising kids

things to do

family life

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Bracing Ourselves 11 Keeping Kids Safe Online 12 Independend School Spotlight 36 Camps-at-a-Glance Chart 43 Party Central 48 Open Houses 48 Professional Services 49 Family Resource Guide and Party Planner 49 Advertisers’ Index 50 Quotables

24 Sun Salutations

44 New Home—Now What?

25 Family Activities Calendar

46 Insurance You Need—But Might Not Have

34 Family Fun a Ride Away

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› facebook.com/nymetroparents

15 Family Health Guide

44 10 Things to Tackle in Your New Home 46 Insurance Gaps Most Families Have

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

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raising kids editor’s note

MAY 2018 • Vol.33 • No.4

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Deborah Skolnik MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf ASSISTANT EDITOR: Melissa Wickes

Here’s to Your Health!

P

arenthood has taught me plenty—for instance, it’s possible for a child to get chicken noodle soup in her armpit. And, if deprived of enough sleep, a new mom may misplace her wallet for hours, only to later find it in the refrigerator.

But the very earliest lesson that parenthood imparted to me was this: Babies don’t always look the way they do in diaper commercials—you know, all smooth and dewy and pretty. In fact, though I naturally thought that both of my daughters were beautiful as newborns, they were also kind of…well, pimply right at the beginning!

As I soon learned, that’s common, as are many of our little ones’ bumps, scales, and splotches. Ever wondered if what you’re seeing is cause for concern? In this issue, Bethany Braun-Silva speaks with experts to decode all sorts of baby skin rashes (p. 18).

Of course, infants aren’t the only ones with skin problems. Our focus on health continues with an article by Katelin Walling about teens’ acne and its effect on their psyche (p. 20). We share fixes that are more than skin-deep by explaining ways to buoy your kid’s self-esteem while battling those zits together. And once your child has gotten the proper acne medications, they’ll need to be safely stored. Learn how to keep your medicine chest in tip-top shape by reading Melissa Wickes’ article on p. 16.

While you’re tackling that project, take a look around the rest of your house. If you’ve recently moved in, you won’t want to miss “New Home—Now What?” on p. 44. We reveal 10 fix-ups that can make any house, new or not, more beautiful, valuable, and enjoyable for its owners. You’ll want to protect everything in your home—including its residents—so be sure to also check out my article on p. 46 about important insurance policies that even careful families often overlook. Lastly take a look at my essay about my younger daughter’s scoliosis (p. 10) and the surprising way in which it changed us both for the better.

And no, we haven’t forgotten that May is Mother’s Day! We’ve got a gift for the proud parent in you: a chance to get your child (the cutest in the world, natch) on the cover of one of our magazines. See p. 23 for more details, and visit nymetroparents.com/cover-contest-info to see how to enter.

Wishing you a beautiful month!

REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Whitney C. Harris (Manhattan, Westchester); Karen Lo (Brooklyn); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERNS: Cintia Feliz, Caitlin Sawicki To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents

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CEO: David L. Miller General Manager: Thomas K. Hanlon 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor, New York, NY 10018 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239

Keep in Touch: @nymetroparents nymetroparents.com editor@nymetroparents.com

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BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN •ROCKLAND 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

At The Little Gym, we complement the traditional school experience with unique classes that revolve around active play. Our students are encouraged to jump, flip, and swing their way towards increased health, focus, knowledge, and happiness.

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Comapny Courtesy Hex &

raising kids new places, new programs

Board Game Café Opens on the Upper West Side Who: Hex & Company What’s New: The first board game café on the Upper West Side, which opened in September 2017.

Families can enjoy more than 1,000 games, a wide range of food, and locally roasted coffee. The not-so-typical café provides after-school programs and summer camp for children ages 5 and older beginning June 18.

Hex and Company is a partnership between The Brooklyn Strategist (pioneering neurodevelopment programs through game play) and The Uncommons (NYC’s first board game café).

“Ours is a unique model that promotes community by providing a physically and psychologically safe space for everyone that enters,” says Jon Freeman, Ph.D., CBSM, owner and founder of Hex & Co. Want More Info: 2871 Broadway, Upper West Side; 212-429-1008; hexnyc.com

any d at Hex & Comp ard games offere A wide array of bo

YMCA of Greater New York’s camps

help children build lifelong skills.

Ariele Alon

Who: YMCA of Greater New York What’s New: A variety of summer programs, including progressive swim camps and science camps. Each camp activity will integrate health and wellness education.

The new camp programs being offered this year are swim camps, science camps, and performing art camps. All new programs aim to develop campers’ teamwork skills and self-confidence. Each program requires preregistration.

The YMCA will focus on incorporating the Social and Emotional Learning Character Development (SEL) and Coordinated Approach to Child Health (CATCH) Healthy Living curriculums within its camp activities, including the brand-new Teen Camp.

Want More Info: 5 W. 63rd St., 6th Floor, Upper West Side; 212630-9693; ymcanyc.org

Courtesy YMCA of Greater New York

NYC YMCA to Offer New Programs and Health Curriculum This Summer

Pediatric Physicians Group in Queens Offers ‘Telehealth’ At-Home Medical Screenings Who: Allied Physicians Group What’s New: TytoHome, a “telehealth” system powered by TytoCare, which gives parents the convenience of a comprehensive medical exam for their children without leaving home.

The device can be used to connect with your Allied doctor, without wait times, for many common conditions including ear infections and colds. The TytoHome exam kit includes a smartphone app and a hand-held examination tool to collect images and readings, which are sent to a pediatrician for review.

“Our mission is quality care without walls, enhancing the lives of our patients and parents,” says Ric Santiago, chief information officer at Allied Physicians Group.

Want More Info: myalliedtelehealth.com 8

May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Ric Santiago, chief information

officer at Allied Physicians Grou

p

SUMMER OF FUN MOVIES

HUDSON RIVERFLICKS FAMILY FRIDAYS FREE Fridays at Pier 46 at Charles St. JUL 13–AUG 24, 8:30 PM

SING-ALONG SCREENINGS FREE Thursdays at Clinton Cove at W 55 St. JUL 26–AUG 23, 8:30 PM KIDS

HUDSON RIVERKIDS FREE Mondays at Pier 25 at N Moore St. Thursdays at Pier 62 at 22 St. JUN 4–SEP 13, CHECK WEBSITE FOR TIMES HRPK ESTUARY LAB

BIG CITY FISHING FREE Learn to fish while engaging with educators about river science.

SUNDAYS JUL 1–SEP 30,* 11:00AM–3:00PM Pier 25 at N Moore St. SUNDAYS JUL 1–AUG 26,* 11:00AM–3:00PM Pier 84 at W 44 St. MONDAYS JUL 2–AUG 20, 5:00–7:30PM Pier 25 at N Moore St. Pier 46 at Charles St.

NEW! SCIENCE SATURDAYS FREE Experience hands-on activities such as experiments, microscopic investigations, nature-inspired crafts, and more!

JUN 2, JUL 14 & AUG 11, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM

ROVING RIVER FREE Observe river critters up close in this exhibit of Hudson River wildlife on wheels.

SUNDAYS JUL 1–SEP 30,* 11:00AM–3:00PM Tricycle travels between Pier 51 at Jane St. & Pier 25 at N. Moore St. *No program Sep 23 For information on times, locations and more fun events, check hudsonriverpark.org.

BigAppleParent

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raising kids voices

Bracing Ourselves ›› A straight-up look at the surprising way a mom was changed by her daughter’s scoliosis. By Deborah Skolnik

H

uh. I wasn’t expecting that,” the emergency-room physician said, frowning as he read the report from my daughter Genie’s chest X-ray. I shot a nervous glance at my pale, coughing 3-year-old.

“So she has pneumonia?” I asked.

“No, her lungs are clear—it’s just a cold. But there’s a note here saying that her spine is curved,” the doctor replied. I was glad Genie didn’t have pneumonia, but what did it mean that her spine was curved? I pictured a spine shaped like a question mark.

Once Genie was better, we visited an orthopedist our pediatrician had recommended. She diagnosed Genie with scoliosis, an abnormal, side-to-side spinal curvature. The curve stood at 18 degrees; if it progressed to 20 degrees, Genie would need to wear a back brace for 23 hours a day until sometime in her teens.

I prayed Genie’s curve would hold or improve. But a follow-up visit the next year brought devastating news: Her spine was now listing at 26 degrees. A brace-maker armed with a tape measure and clipboard was called in. Weeks later, we were presented with the hard, thick plastic shell that would encase my daughter’s torso for the next decade.

You don’t mess with scoliosis. Left unchecked, it can cause profound problems, from visible deformity and chronic pain to heart and lung trouble. My husband and I knew we needed to treat Genie at once, but that didn’t make it any less agonizing to buckle our wiggly child into a bulky, inflexible contraption. And it wasn’t like I could tell her “lots of kids have this.” They don’t, especially not at age 4. In fact, Genie was the only child in our elementary school’s 100-plus-year history to wear a back brace to classes.

Genie’s clothing covered the brace, but the outline of its front buckles was clearly visible through her clothes. The shoulder straps jutted upward, making her look like a pintsized linebacker. All I could think was that her new, slightly lumpy appearance was tantamount to social suicide.

But something surprising happened: Genie stayed happy-

“

10

May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

go-lucky, maybe because she was too young to feel selfconscious. She covered her brace in stickers and showed it off to her pals, acting like it was cool gear she was lucky to have.

She took her brace in stride, and, following her lead, so did those around her.

The years marched on. There was the occasional mean girl at camp or insensitive adult, but for the most part, people either disregarded Genie’s brace or were intrigued by it.

When a performer at a medieval fair selected Genie to ride on his shoulders, he discovered her brace as he lifted her. “She has her own armor!” he roared to the crowd.

Meanwhile, Genie was disarming me—stripping away the guilty awkwardness I’d long felt around people with visible differences. Because she didn’t view her brace as tragic, she didn’t view others’ medical equipment—or they themselves— as objects of pity. She’d say breezy hellos to people in wheelchairs, and coo over babies in headgear.

Several years ago, she made a best friend at camp and told me everything about her—except that the girl had impaired mobility and used a walker. I didn’t learn about it until visiting day, when I witnessed Genie happily helping her pal get up a hill while singing to her. Why didn’t she tell me about the walker? I wondered. Then I realized it was because to her, it wasn’t worth a mention.

I started to see that it wasn’t just Genie’s spine that needed help; my attitude toward people with disabilities needed some straightening out, too. I no longer avert my gaze from them, worried that they’ll see sorrow in my eyes. Instead, like Genie, I make a point of saying hi. I treat them the way I want people to treat Genie—the way I was supposed to have been treating them all along.

Genie’s now 14, and her spinal curve is almost completely gone. The day is coming when she’ll leave her back brace behind for good, but I know the compassion she gained from her years of treatment will last a lifetime.

She’s not just a kid with a straight back; she’s a person with real backbone.

raising kids in the know

Keeping Kids Safe Online ››

By Bethany Braun-Silva with Titania Jordan

K

eeping kids protected while they’re on the web is challenging. Here Titania Jordan, chief parent officer of bark.us, an award-winning app that monitors kids’ activities online and alerts parents of potential dangers, shares five ways parents can help keep their kids safe online.

Be where they are. Don’t let your child download an app, play a game, or visit a website unless you (at the very least) know about it first. Google the name of the platform plus the word “dangers”, or review its rating on Common Sense Media. Even better, spend some time with the platform and learn its ins and outs firsthand.

Have those difficult conversations. Often. As soon as your children are old enough to encounter content on a device, you need to talk to them about the importance of asking for permission before clicking on anything. Once they are older and more Internet independent, discuss the concept of personally identifiable information, as nobody needs to know your child’s name, age, address, school, baseball league, or anything else that can lead predators to them.

Get to know the parental control options on the various devices and platforms your children interact with. Next, look at what your Internet, cable, or mobile service providers offer. Utilizing the 4-digit pin is critical on Netflix, now that remotes are voice activated.

When in doubt, just say no. If something doesn’t feel right, go with your gut. So many parents these days give in to their children because everyone else a) is doing it b) is playing it c) already has a phone d) has seen the series e) has downloaded it or f) fill in the blank. So what. Go against the grain. Childhood innocence kept a little longer = parenting win.

Media literacy is key. Teach your children to not take everything they see online at face value. Encourage them to look for multiple sources, realize that anyone can copy a photo and create a fake profile, and be responsible with the content they engage with and post online. They need to know about algorithms that are tailored to them based on their search history and browsing preferences, and remember that everything they post on the Internet, even in a private “disappearing” message, is a screen shot away from lasting forever.

As CPO, Titania Jordan is Bark’s resident factotum, her role spanning across product, design, copy, customer acquisition and education, and media relations. Jordan holds a BBA in Marketing, and enjoys painting and building Lego cities with her family in her downtime.

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State-of-the-art facilities throughout Manhattan

BigAppleParent 11

raising kids independent school spotlight

IDEAL is dedicated to diversity throughout the organization, from board members to faculty and staff to its population of students.

Emphasizing Inclusion for a More Diverse Education

Students of all backgrounds and abilities are met with individualized instruction. ›› By Bethany Braun-Silva Name of school: The IDEAL School of Manhattan Grades: K-12 Size of student body: 182

Grand Opening in conjunction with the museum’s Children’s Festival May 19 & 20 | Free admission A family-friendly, interactive space where the focus is Native innovations throughout history that shape the modern world.

Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian One Bowling Green | New York City

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May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Educational approach or philosophy: The academic program at The IDEAL School is based on the belief that students learn best when the bar is set high. The faculty believes true learning is only possible when students feel understood and celebrated. Through various programs, IDEAL provides time for conversation, reflection, and leadership. The arts, STEAM, and athletics are integrated into the school’s program, fostering creativity and a healthy mind-body balance.

IDEAL graduates are equipped with outstanding critical thinking and academic skills, voice, self-assurance, and empathy. The IDEAL School will be graduating its first class this spring. “It’s exciting to see the first graduates, exciting to see the school succeed the way we imagined it would. To see each student at his or her own personal best and ready to take their next step, whatever it may be, is very rewarding,” says Audra Zuckerman, founder and parent of a graduating senior.

What makes the school unique: In the Lower School (kindergarten-fifth grades), general educators and learning specialists co-teach in the classroom using a research-based, differentiated curriculum. In the Middle School (sixth-eighth grades), small, seminar-style classes cultivate the skills students need to be independent thinkers. The unique High School model is based on a rotating curriculum that brings students in ninth to 12th grades together in intentional groups designed to inspire and challenge all learners to achieve personal and academic excellence.

“All individuals are honored and celebrated for their full identity and all students are encouraged to strive for personal and academic excellence,” says Janet Wolfe, head of school. “Teachers know their students as individuals and challenge, inspire, and support them in achievement. Within our nurturing learning community and with the guidance of our expert faculty, IDEAL students develop a growth mindset. They build on their talents, grow through practice and application, and take the healthy risks all children need to take to grow and thrive. Living and learning within a community that is intentionally diverse in every way...our students learn to collaborate, develop empathy and an understanding of the world beyond themselves, and celebrate the achievements of their peers, as well as their own,” she says.

Independent School Spotlight

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German for

Lessons Children

Bilingual German After School Program

NY State Accredited Language Program

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AUDITIONS Pre-Professional Program (ages 7-17) 2018-19 SCHOOL YEAR June 12: Ages 10-13* at 4:30pm June 13: Ages 7-9 at 4:30pm Ages 14-17* at 6:30pm

May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

SCHOLARSHIP June 15: Ages 15-17* at 4:30pm *Previous ballet training required Dates subject to change

THE AILEY SCHOOL 405 West 55th Street, New York, NY 10019 For more information and to register for an audition: TheAileySchool.edu or email juniordivision@alvinailey.org Advance registration required.

Photo by Rosalie O’Connor

JUNIOR DIVISION

online extras Everything’s blooming, and your child is sneezing, but does he have allergies or a cold? Find expert advice at ›› nymetroparents.com/allergies-or-cold

What really works to lower a fever in children? The answers may surprise you.

Get the lowdown from a pediatrician at ›› nymetroparents.com/lower-fever

Kids’ snoring can seem cute, but it could spell trouble. Find out why at ›› nymetroparents.com/snoring

Some germs are actually beneficial to kids’ health. Learn the reasons at ›› nymetroparents.com/good-germs

inside

raising kids family health guide

16 M edicine Cabinet Makeover: It turns out you may not need everything you’ve been stocking up on. ecode Your Baby’s Rash: Find out 18 D if what you’re seeing on your infant’s skin is normal. ixing Zits & Boosting Self-Esteem: 20 N How you can help your teen clear her acne—and keep her self-esteem intact.

22 H ealth Directory: Find health care providers in Manhattan.

Medicine Cabinet Makeover

››

It turns out you may not need everything you’ve been stocking up on, so add this oft-forgotten area to your spring-cleaning list. By Melissa Wickes

O

ur medicine cabinets have become at-home mini drugstores and are often the first place we turn when facing a medical issue, sometimes even before turning to the doctor. As parents, we want to have a plethora of medications on hand in case of any emergency, whether it’s the flu or the imaginary boo-boo your little one has because she wants to accessorize with character Band-Aids.

We’re right there with you: It’s comforting to know there are three bottles of children’s fever reducer within reach at all times. But every time we open the cabinet, we run the risk of an avalanche of cotton balls, cough drops, and painkillers falling on us, which doesn’t need to be the case! We’re here to help with advice from pediatricians and pharmacists to completely rethink what you need to have on hand, reorganize your medicine cabinet for safety reasons, and provide a little sanity when your kid gets sick.

Cabinet Clean Out

Doctors and pharmacists recommend cleaning out the medicine cabinet and taking inventory of the medications it contains once or twice a year. Check the expiration dates on over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and properly dispose of those that are no longer safe to take.

“The main problem with taking expired medications is decrease in efficiency,” says Eric Levene, M.D., a pediatrician at Allied Pediatrics in White Plains. “After the expiration date, the medicine won’t work as well, and you won’t be taking the right dosage because it will be less effective.”

Eye drops, creams, and even cosmetics that are stored in the medicine cabinet can harbor different types of bacteria, so when in doubt, throw it out. The irony of a medicine cabinet? Due to the moisture levels in your bathroom, it isn’t the best place for long-term medication storage, 16

May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

according to Joanna Tracy, Pharm. D., assistant director of Pharmacy at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital (NYU Langone). Most medications can be stored at room temperature, but you should always defer to the medication label when determining which conditions are best for storage. (Areas to never store your medications, though: the car or any other places subject to high temperatures.)

What to Have on Hand

Parents tend to buy a ton of medications to have on hand “just in case,” but this isn’t recommended, according to Dr. Tracy. While it can be anxiety relieving to have the comfort of a makeshift drugstore store readily available, this can actually do more harm than good.

Having a ton of medications laying around raises the risk of kids getting their hands on medicines that can be toxic to them and ingesting expired medications, and creates overall clutter in a place where it is important to be organized.

Additionally, over-the-counter medications, while helpful, often have active ingredients that provide the potential for incidental misuse and higher-than-recommended dosages, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a division of the National Institutes of Health. Some ingredients found in OTC medications that can be harmful include dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant, and loperamide, an antidiarrheal. These medications, when combined with other drugs such as alcohol and marijuana, are especially harmful because they can affect the brain in a similar way to opioids, according to NIDA. “There have been reports of over-the-counter medications causing life threatening side effects in children under two,” says Dr. Tracy, so it is important to pay attention to what medications are safe to give your infant. In the case that you need to give your

infant a pain reliever or fever reducer, it is safe to administer acetaminophen, but not ibuprofen. Though, Dr. Levene recommends herbal remedies, with mediation, for infants.

“Herbal remedies are the standard for infants, however just because they are natural does not mean they are always safe,” Dr. Levene says. “Always consult with your physician and let them know everything you are using to treat your baby because some medications can interfere with herbal remedies.”

For children younger than 6, you should refrain from administering cough medications, according to Dr. Levene. After age 6, saline sprays, ibuprofen pain relievers, and antihistamines such as Benadryl are generally okay, but you should always consult your doctor especially when children are at a young age.

In a series of studies involving 810 patients, more than twothirds of subjects reported having opioids left over after surgery, according to a report published by JAMA Surgery.

Only 4-30 percent of those study participants actually planned to or had already disposed of the leftover drugs, and even fewer had followed U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines to do so properly.

Remember: You should never flush any medications down the toilet or sink due

to the risk of contaminating the water supply. With that said, when you’re done taking a medication but have some left over, properly discard of it and don’t leave it laying around for anyone to get their hands on it. The best way to do this is through a New York state-approved medicine drop off location, according to Dr. Tracy; visit health.ny.gov to find one near you. There are also scheduled U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration take-back days; find more

information about these days in accordance with your area at takebackday.dea.gov.

“The inquisitive nature of children is an amazing thing, and we as parents and caregivers should do our best to give them a safe environment,” Dr. Kahn says. “Young kids love to explore!” If you are cognizant of where your medication is from the day it is picked up to the day you’re done with it, the medicine cabinet doesn’t have to be a scary place.

SUMMER CAMPS KIDSAIL JULY- AUGUST 2018

Keep Kids’ Hands Off

When arranging the medications in your cabinet, keep in mind what you’re putting within reach of your little ones. Any and all medications should ideally be kept in a place where children cannot reach them and only adults should be able to distribute them. This is especially important for antidepressants and opioids.

“If the medicine cabinet is in a place accessible to a child, for example a lower cabinet, then it is recommended that the cabinet be locked,” says Aimée Kahn, M.D., M.P.H., a pediatrician at Crystal Run Healthcare in West Nyack.

Disposing of unnecessary medications properly guarantees your children will not access them. And that’s no small concern: The nonmedical use of prescription drugs is a highly dangerous issue that is plaguing today’s youth. In fact, the rate of prescription opioid misuse is incredibly high and rapidly growing, according to the results of the 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

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Register at: northcovesailing.com BigAppleParent 17

Sponsored by

Decode Your Baby’s Rash

››

Find out if what you’re seeing on your infant’s skin is normal or if you should call a doctor. By Bethany Braun-Silva

F

inding a rash on your infant is fairly common given that baby skin is so sensitive. But as a new parent, “it can be difficult to determine the seriousness of a rash,” says Aimée Kahn, M.D., M.P.H., pediatrician at Crystal Run Healthcare in West Nyack.

“Most rashes are not life-threatening, but if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or feeling sick, bring your child in to be seen by their doctor.” Common symptoms of a serious rash include oozing, pus, blisters, broken skin, pain, tenderness, bruising, or redness, Dr. Kahn says.

A not-so-serious rash may be treated at home with emollients or can even be left untreated to clear up on its own. But “it is important to be aware of rashes that do not get better or appear to be worsening,” Dr. Kahn adds. “In these cases one should bring that child to see their pediatrician for an exam.”

Here we explain the rashes and skin ailments that commonly affect infants, and give you insight as to when it’s time to call the pediatrician.

Cradle Cap

Most common in newborns, cradle cap appears as yellow, crusty, or greasy, scaly patches. It will generally show up on your baby’s scalp, but may appear on his eyebrows, ears, and neck. This is a harmless skin condition and should clear up on its own within a few months. However, it can be treated with a mild soap and a soft bristle brush to help loosen the scales.

Call the pediatrician if the rash does not go away or gets worse; occasionally a baby may have a secondary yeast infection.

“In some cases even cradle cap will require a prescription shampoo or lotion to be treated,” Dr. Kahn says.

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May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Contact Dermatitis

This will show up as a dry and bumpy or red and oozing rash and will only be present in areas where your infant has been exposed to an irritant, such as Band-Aids, soap, or laundry detergent. Contact dermatitis can be avoided by simply no longer using the product that is causing the trouble, and you can apply a mild anti-itch or cortisone cream to ease the symptoms until the rash clears up.

Call the pediatrician if your baby has been exposed to a severe irritant such as poison ivy, as this may require treatment with an oral steroid or cortisone.

Diaper Rash

A diaper rash occurs when urine and stool act together to create an acidic environment that breaks down baby’s skin. Diarrhea can make diaper rash more frequent. A diaper rash shows up as redness or burn-like marks. Diaper cream should do the trick and can be applied with each diaper change.

Call the pediatrician if your child has severe rashes with open sores that do not heal easily. “On occasion, diaper rash can become secondarily infected. If an area of redness becomes scaly and bumpy, it is possible that the skin has become infected with yeast, which requires a topical antifungal medication. Babies can occasionally experience bacterial infections, like impetigo [see next page], due to severe irritation,” says Katherine Miao, M.D., a medical director at City MD Metro North Region. If baby has large, soft, yellow fluid-filled blisters, a staph infection may have developed. See your doctor; this needs prompt treatment with oral antibiotics.

Eczema

It looks different in infants than it does in older children. When an infant develops an eczema rash, it typically appears on her cheeks, trunk, or scalp; the areas look red, scaly, and sometimes crusty.

Call the pediatrician if the eczema gets worse despite treating with over-the-counter cream. Your child may have developed a bacterial infection, in which case antibiotics are necessary to clear it up. Eczema that isn’t getting better could also be the result of an allergy, especially to foods such as milk or soy. You may need to consult an allergist to find out the specific cause.

Hives

Impetigo

If your child develops yellow, crusty, oozing sores around his mouth, this may be a sign of impetigo. It’s caused by a staph or strep germ and can occur anywhere the skin has been broken and bacteria can enter.

Call the pediatrician if you notice the symptoms listed above.

Impetigo needs to be treated by a doctor either with antibiotics or a prescribed cream. If the outbreak does not go away after a few days of treatment, call the doctor again.

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Infant Acne or Milia

Milia are tiny white bumps that appear under your baby’s skin.

The bumps are normally present on the nose, chin, or cheeks and are caused by skin flakes trapped near the surface of the skin. Baby acne is red or white bumps on the forehead or cheeks, which are caused by hormones the baby receives from his mother at the end of pregnancy. Infant acne can be present when your baby is born or appear when she is 2-4 weeks old.

Both milia and baby acne will disappear in several weeks and are harmless. You can care for your baby’s acne by washing his skin with warm water and a mild soap and by avoiding oils and lotions on the affected area.

Call the pediatrician if the acne appears to be getting larger or appears swollen and is producing discharge. This could be a sign of a bacterial infection, which needs to be treated with antibiotics.

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Teen Broadway Jazz. Photo by Kyle Froman

These flat or slightly raised blotches are usually caused by an allergy, most frequently to food or medicine. A telltale sign that the rash is a hive is if it fades in one area and reappears in another. To treat, use a mild antihistamine or remove whatever is causing the allergy.

Call the pediatrician if your baby is having difficulty breathing, or has swollen eyes or lips in addition to hives. In fact, it is recommended you call 911 if any of these symptoms occur, as they are signs of a severe allergic reaction.

15th Anniversary

Arts Festival 2018

May 19th – 20th 11am – 6pm (Rain or Shine)

55 W. Railroad Avenue Garnerville, NY 10923 www.garnerartscenter.org Photo Credit: Kristi Veltidi

Where History & Contemporary Art Collide Amongst 14 Acres of 19th Century Industrial Spaces • Open Artist Studios • Workshops • Food Trucks • On Site Craft Brewery & More $8 Adults, $6 Seniors/Students, Children under 14 are free 1 and 2 day pass packages available with additional discounts.

Go to garnerartscenter.org for details.

BigAppleParent 19

Nixing Zits & Boosting Self-Esteem

››

In the unfair stage of puberty with changes happening all at once, here’s how you can help your teen clear her acne—and keep her self-esteem intact. By Katelin Walling

A

s a tween with the (seemingly) sudden onset of zits and blackheads clogging my pores, I devoured all the information I could find about acne, its causes (so I could avoid those factors to the best of my ability), and how to get rid of it once and for all. Because, really, who wants acne? I tried all the over-the-counter cleansers and spot treatments on the market. I convinced my mom to splurge and get me Proactiv. I was desperate to clear up my face because I was so self-conscious about breakouts—heck, I still am.

In middle school, I got bangs to hide any zits on my forehead.

In high school, I started dabbling in makeup to conceal blemishes.

I still conceal breakouts with makeup, but the difference between now and then is I actually know what I’m doing with makeup— YouTube tutorials didn’t exist when I was in my early teens. The only thing that kept me sane was the fact that some of my close friends were also struggling with acne.

Some tweens and teens might not be so lucky and escape serious self-esteem issues related to acne, especially when it comes to seeing the “perfect” pictures others are posting on social media.

(Thankfully Facebook was in its infancy and only open to college students and Instagram didn’t exist when I was in high school, so I didn’t have pictures of people with clear skin flooding my feeds.)

What’s encouraging, though, is a lot of celebrities are being real about their skin: Most notably, Lili Reinhart of Riverdale fame has been refreshingly honest about her battle with cystic acne.

“The struggle is real, as they say,” says Rachel Nazarian, M.D., F.A.A.D., who dealt with acne in her late teens. Dr. Nazarian is a board-certified dermatologist, a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, and sees patients at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City.

The one thing I didn’t do as a teen, regrettably, was talk to a dermatologist to figure out the best course of treatment for my skin.

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May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

All About Acne

There are two categories of acne: inflammatory lesions, which are more likely to scar such as cystic acne (usually deep, bumpy, tender, red nodules) and non-inflammatory lesions, such as whiteheads and blackheads, which are less likely to scar unless the teen picks at them, according to Dr. Nazarian.

Dietary factors may play a role in acne, but “it’s a pretty weak link at this point,” Dr. Nazarian says. There’s no hard evidence, but some studies have suggested dairy products containing natural growth hormones can stimulate over-oil production and cause pimples, and high-glycemic (sugary) and greasy, fried foods are also thought to be linked to acne, Dr. Nazarian explains. “But short of that, we know that most acne is actually just caused by a very normal reaction of the skin from internal hormones and chemicals in the body that can happen from stress, it can just happen from normal puberty, and certainly there are things that you can take [such as medications and supplements] that will absolutely cause acne, but that is not a regular cause,” she says.

“There are so many different treatments now depending on what the patient comes in with and truly how they feel about it, how quickly they need it gone, how distraught they are,” Dr. Nazarian says, and a number of those treatments can be used at the same time.

Topically, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, peels such as glycolic acid, and a range of retinoids can be found over the counter or by prescription, according to Dr. Nazarian.

Oral prescriptions include antibiotics such as doxycycline or minocycline, isotretinoin (more commonly known by the former brand name Accutane), as well as spironolactone, an option for females only, Dr. Nazarian says. Dermatologists also have tools, such as lasers and blue lights, they can use in the office.

One thing to keep in mind: The more your teen can do to prevent bacteria from clogging her pores, the better off her skin will be. Some easy things he can do are wash his face twice a day with a gentle cleanser but don’t over-scrub, change his pillowcase once a week, regularly wipe down his phone screen and headphone cords with an alcohol wipe, and use a facial cleansing wipe after playing sports or working out. While none of these will miraculously clear acne completely, each little step can help reduce the number of pimples she sees.

Supporting Self-Esteem

Puberty is an awkward phase of life, and you don’t have to be an expert to see that some teens are self-conscious or have self-esteem issues, says Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist and founder and director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. in New York City. But there are things you, as parents, can do to prevent your teen’s self-esteem from dropping—and help improve it.

“The longer acne lasts, the worse the emotional symptoms might be,” says Lindsay Macchia, Ph.D., associate psychologist at the Mood Disorders Center and Anxiety Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute. So the first step she suggests is to take your teen to a dermatologist. The faster acne is treated, the more likely the teen is to not have feelings of low self-esteem and low self-worth. “I would encourage a parent to find a doctor who is very empathic and validating and understands that, yes, this is a skin condition, but it can also effect the tween or teen emotionally too,” she says.

Additionally, parents should emphasize that they are part of their teen’s support system and validate his feelings. “If their self-esteem is starting to dip or they are starting to be concerned about their appearance…or what other people might be thinking of them or how they might be treating them, knowing that they can turn to their parents for support can go a very long way,” Dr. Macchia says.

“Parents, sometimes in their years of experience and feeling that their problems are so much bigger than their teenagers’ problems, are dismissive,” Dr. Hafeez adds. But “dismissing them makes them feel alone and the only people they can turn to for help are people who are also now not taking them seriously and sort of undermining or downplaying their problem.” Listen to your teen and tell her, “I understand. It must be really hard. Would you like to go see a doctor or a dermatologist with me?”

If you can talk to your teen, and spend time with him to help him feel heard and validated, acne or not, he’s going to feel a boost in his self-esteem because he feels important to those people who mean the most, Dr. Hafeez says.

When to See a Therapist

If your tween or teen suddenly changes her behavior—starts avoiding social activities such as parties, sports teams, after-school clubs, or school events; always covers or hides her face; seems more sad or irritable than usual; tries to skip school; or even verbalizes that she thinks she looks ugly—her self-esteem may be plummeting because of her acne, and it might be time to seek professional help.

If you’re anxious about asking your teen whether he wants to see a psychologist, Dr. Hafeez suggests saying, “I’m here for you.

I’m always willing to talk, but I don’t want to assume that I’m the answer to all of your problems. Maybe there are things you don’t want to tell me. I want you to be able to speak openly to someone who you feel isn’t going to judge you.”

“Just giving them those options makes the child feel like their parent cares enough about doing something about this, and it’s not just about how they feel now. Teenagers can be brats and they can be ungrateful, but someday that teenager is going to look back and be appreciative of those things,” Dr. Hafeez says.

BigAppleParent 21

Health Directory Allied Physicians Group

are part of something special at Asphalt Green Summer Day Camp.

3 Huntington Quadrangle, Melville 866-621-2769 alliedphysiciansgroup.com

The more than 120 physicians that comprise Allied Physicians Group are among the top pediatricians throughout Long Island, New York City, Westchester County, the Hudson Valley, and beyond. When you bring your children to an Allied pediatric practice, you know they are getting the very best care. Our doctors have access to resources, technology, and support that other, stand-alone pediatric practices simply cannot offer. Our doctors have more time for what matters most: you and your child! For more information, visit alliedphysiciansgroup. com or call us at 866-621-2769.

Asphalt Green Summer Day Camp

555 E. 90th St., Upper East Side 212-298-7900 212 North End Ave. (at Murray Street), Battery Park City 212-298-2900 asphaltgreen.org; camps@asphaltgreen.org

Asphalt Green Summer Day Camp builds character, confidence, and community. Our core camp values are focal points of every activity, creating a safe and healthy space for children to learn and grow. Whether playing sports, doing arts and crafts, or swimming, we encourage campers to be mindful of their actions. Children take the life lessons they learn at camp and apply them to school, sports, and social settings. Our state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor facilities combined with world-class instruction create the ultimate experience.

Rich with 30 years of spirit and tradition, you

Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex Summer Camps West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park Camps: 212-336-6846 chelseapiers.com/camp

Located along the Hudson River, Chelsea Piers is a 28-acre sports village that offers NYC’s biggest and most flexible summer camp program! For 22 summers, athletes of all ages have enjoyed the most dynamic sports curriculum available. With up to 11 weeks and 15 sports to choose from, we have a camp for every athlete and schedule. Our coaches are dedicated year-round to provide athletes with a clean, safe, healthy, friendly, and fun environment. Transportation service from many Manhattan and Brooklyn neighborhoods and after care are available. Summer Camps run June 18-Aug. 31. Early-bird pricing available through May 18.

The Creative Kitchen

718-406-7506 thecreativekitchen.com events@thecreativekitchen.com

enhance other traditional disciplines, such as reading, mathematics, science, social sciences, nutrition, music, art, history, and geography. The Creative Kitchen’s tried-and-true fruit, vegetable, and whole grain-based recipes and lesson plans have been developed and implemented since 1999.

JCC Manhattan Summer Camps

Camp Settoga 646-505-4430 jccmanhattan.org/campsettoga

Your summer of healthy adventure awaits at Camp Settoga! Nestled in the foothills of Harriman State Park, JCC Manhattan celebrates day camp excellence in a brand-new, state-of-the-art, 21-acre home. It’s everything you’ve come to expect from the JCC, with enriching and engaging programs in the arts, the Red Cross Learn to Swim Program, an adventure course, sports, and outdoor cooking! For information, please call the camp office at 646-505-4430 or email Genna Singer at gsinger@jccmanhattan.org.

Taters & Tots

The Creative Kitchen offers hands-on cooking classes throughout New York City, and works to foster a healthy relationship between children and food. The Creative Kitchen’s cooking classes are about more than just learning to cook. During activities, children strengthen their motor skills, self-esteem, socialization, cultural understanding, teamwork, independence, and personal responsibility. Cooking classes also

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A private, affordable chef for your baby.

Feeding your baby can be stressful and take up a lot of time. Our chefs are here to help guide you and show you how easy it is to cook healthy meals for your baby. Let our chefs come teach you or your caregiver, or hire us to do all the work. Get your baby on the right track to becoming a lifelong healthy eater. Email us to get started and check out our Instagram.

The Cathedral School 319 East 74th Street, New York City

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for 22

May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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646-998-4284

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3 Easy Steps to Enter: 1. Go to nymetroparents.com/covercontest or facebook.com/nymetroparents 2. Select your favorite photo of your child (ages 2-16) 3. Upload the photo (.jpg or .png) (Every entry will be automatically reviewed by Barbizon talent scouts)

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BigAppleParent 23

Sun things to do

where-to guide

✿

✿

Salutations

Compiled by Samantha Neudorf

Summer is within in our reach, and there’s no better way to help your kids to get their first tastes of summer vacation than to bring them to one of these exciting outdoor activities. Mini golf is a fun way for families to bond over a game. Zoos, nature centers, and botanical gardens are a great way to greet wildlife while soaking in some vitamin D, and if your children can’t get enough of animals, bring them to a nearby stable to ride horses (it’s the next best idea to getting them a pony!). But if your kids are not quite ready to meet a real horse, you can always bring them to a carousel in your area.

Here’s hoping your May gets you and your family ready for summer!

CAROUSELS Le Carrousel

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Bryant Park, West 40th Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues, Midtown 212-768-4242; bryantpark.org/amenities/le-carrousel Hours: March-May: daily, 11am-7pm; June-October: daily, 11am-8pm (hours are weather permitting) Price: $3 per ride; $20 for 10 rides Hear the sounds of Paris and the French Cabaret as you ride 1 of 14 prancing animals. During the summer, Flaubert Frog tells stories and plays games with kids on Saturdays from 1-2pm, and roaming magicians can be seen performing tricks on Sundays.

Find more>> carousels in Manhattan at nymetroparents.com/ carousels.

Riverdale Stables

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6100 Mosholu Ave., Riverdale, Bronx 718-548-4848; riverdalestables.com The center offers lessons for young riders and adults. An after-school riding program features riding, grooming, stable management, and horse care with pick-up at some Manhattan schools. The summer camp features riding lessons, leisure rides, and horse care. The stables also offer an Interscholastic Equestrian Association team in both Hunt Seat and Dressage disciplines for middle school and high school students, plus private boarding and leasing.

Find more>> horseback-riding stables in Manhattan at nymetroparents.com/horseback-riding

MINI GOLF Pier 25 Mini Golf

Pier 25 in Hudson River Park, North Moore and West streets, Tribeca 347-756-5813; manhattanyouth.org/pier-25/mini-golf.aspx Hours: May 15-Sept. 15: daily, 10am-10pm Price: $6; $5 for children 13 and younger This 18-hole course is a fun and challenging way for adults and kids to spend time together. Special features include a waterfall, a cave, and footbridges. There are golf clubs of varying sizes available for players of all ages, along with colorful golf balls.

✿

Find more>> mini-golf courses in Manhattan at nymetroparents.com/minigolf.

Julie Larsen Maher

HORSEBACK RIDING

Flock to the Central Park Zoo’s Polar Circle exhibit to see king penguins.

ZOOS, NATURE CENTERS, & BOTANICAL GARDENS Central Park Zoo

64th Street and Fifth Avenue, Central Park 212-439-6500; centralparkzoo.com Hours (through Nov. 8): Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm; weekends and holidays, 10am-5:30pm Admission: $12; $9 seniors; $7 children ages 3-12; free for children 2 and younger This zoo has daily feedings of the sea lions at 11:30am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm. You can also visit penguins at the Polar Circle exhibit and see snow leopards. The exotic indoor Tropic Zone is home to many species of free-flying birds as well as reptiles and lemurs. Admission includes entry to the Tisch Children’s Zoo, where kids can feed and pet goats, sheep, llamas, and other domestic animals.

Find more>> zoos, nature centers, and botanical gardens in Manhattan at nymetroparents.com/zoos.

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!

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on Bike Expo New York (No. 2 on our list).

MAY

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

EDITOR: WHITNEY C. HARRIS nyccalendar@davlermedia.com

CALENDAR 26

Editor’s Hot Tickets

27

We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

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Crafty Kids

29

Fun Fairs & Festivals, Special Needs

30

Dance Party, Animal Lovers

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Smarty Pants, Mini Musicians

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Show Time!

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Movers & Shakers, 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!

1

Harlem Children’s Theatre Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, May 5, 10am-1pm WHERE: Aaron Davis Hall, 150 Convent Ave., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy live performances, sing-alongs, puppetmaking, and a dress-up station. There will be ageappropriate plays and readings, written and produced by students in the graduate program.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This year’s festival features three new adaptations of myths and fairy tales.

WANT TO GO? 212-281-9240. ccny.cuny.edu/edtheatre.

Bike Expo New York FREE

WHEN: May 4-5, Friday, 10am-8pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm WHERE: Pier 36 at Basketball City, 299 South St., Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: More than 60,000 cyclists will meet, greet, and talk shop with one another and more than 100 exhibitors, from big brands to local innovators. There will be state-of-the-art equipment for races, fun giveaways, and panels.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Beginners can take lessons too!

WANT TO GO? 212-870-2080. bike.nyc/events/bike-expo-new-york.

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3

‘Don Quixote Takes New York’

WHEN: Through May 6: Saturdays and Sundays, 12pm WHERE: La MaMa Kids, 66 E. 4th St., East Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This playful show by Loco7 Dance Puppet Theatre transports the audience as Don Quixote and his friend Sancho Panza travel the five boroughs of New York City on a quest for love, honor, liberty, and justice for all.

WHY WE LOVE IT: The show has an inspiring message about conquering fears.

WANT TO GO? $10. 212-352-3101. lamama.org.

Children’s Day: Kodomo no Hi

WHEN: Sunday, May 6, 11am-4pm WHERE: Japan Society, 333 E. 47th St., Midtown AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Hang the koinobori (carp streamers) and don your kabuto (samurai helmet). Enjoy storytelling, music, dance, taiko drumming, and make treats such as kashiwa-mochi: rice cakes stuffed with bean paste and wrapped in oak leaves that symbolize strength.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Families will love watching samurai sword fighting demos and an amezaiku artist create animal-shaped candy for children.

WANT TO GO? $18; free for children younger than 2. 212-832-1155. japansociety.org.

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5

Mother’s Day Celebration

WHEN: Sunday, May 13, 9am and 1pm WHERE: Central Park Zoo, East 64th Street and Fifth Avenue, Central Park AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Families will meet a variety of zoo animal moms and their babies, make tasty morsels for some super animal moms, and go on an animal moms scavenger hunt that concludes with meeting a special animal guest.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kiddos will make a Mother’s Day craft and enjoy a yummy treat, too.

WANT TO GO? $75. 718-220-5100. centralparkzoo.com.

12th Annual Dance Parade and Festival FREE

WHEN: Saturday, May 19, 1-7pm WHERE: Parade starts at 21st Street and Broadway, East 8th Street to Avenue A, East Village AGES: All WHAT: Watch more than 10,000 dancers, DJs, and live bands perform to the theme The Cabaret of Life. Dancefest takes place after the parade at Tompkins Square Park, featuring more than 80 unique styles of dance.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This celebration is for everyone who enjoys visual art forms as varied as ballet and break dancing. Plus, there will be aerial performances and free dance lessons.

WANT TO GO? 267-350-9213. danceparade.org.

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7

17th Annual Mamapalooza FREE

WHEN: Sunday, May 27, 12-5pm WHERE: Riverside Park Pier I, 500 W. 70th St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate moms and the people who love them at this annual music and art-filled festival featuring family-focused vendors, wellness activities, face painting, art, and activism.

WHY WE LOVE IT: There will be a Gymboree play area, chair yoga sessions, and sungazing with the Amateur Astronomers Association.

WANT TO GO? 877-711-6667. mamapalooza.com.

Living History: Memorial Day Weekend

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WHEN: May 27-28, Sunday-Monday, 11am-4pm WHERE: DiMenna Children’s Museum at NewYork Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the opening of the exhibition Rockwell, Roosevelt, & the Four Freedoms. Living Historians portraying Americans from the Second World War will be stationed in the gallery to answer your questions in honor of Memorial Day. WHY WE LOVE IT: Families will enjoy the exhibit all about turning the idea of freedom into art.

WANT TO GO? $21; $16 teachers and seniors; $13 students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 4. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org/childrens-museum.

9

Fleet Week 2018 FREE

WHEN: May 23-29, daily, see website for times WHERE: Various locations, see website for addresses, New York City AGES: All WHAT: Now in its 30th year, Fleet Week is a celebration of the sea services, and an opportunity for New Yorkers to meet sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen. Hop aboard participating ships, take in exhibits and military band concerts, and witness other aviation events showcasing the skilled expertise of our dedicated sea service members.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This year is all about the #SelfieWithASailor.

WANT TO GO? 757-322-2853. fleetweeknewyork.com.

11th Annual World Science Festival 2018

WHEN: May 29-June 3, see website for times WHERE: Various locations, see website for addresses AGES: All WHAT: This year’s festival promises more than 70 events for curious minds of all ages. Through discussions and debates, theatrical performances, films, town hall gatherings, fireside chats, hands-on experiments, and outdoor explorations, festival-goers will travel with the world’s leading scientists to the very edge of knowledge.

WHY WE LOVE IT: The full schedule is about to be revealed soon!

WANT TO GO? TBA. 212-348-1400. worldsciencefestival.com.

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WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S 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.

35th Annual Hippo Playground Spring Fair FREE

WHEN: Sunday, May 6, 10am-4pm WHERE: Hippo Playground, Riverside Drive and West 91st Street, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: A fun-filled fundraiser featuring pony rides, bouncy castles, a petting zoo, games, prizes, crafts, food, entertainment, and more.

WANT TO GO? 212-870-3070. riversideparknyc.org.

Make Some Noise: A Celebration of Women and Music FREE

WHEN: Saturday, May 12, 5-8:30pm WHERE: Crabapple Grove at Riverside Park, 91st Street and Riverside Drive, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy unforgettable performances by student and alumni musicians from New York City colleges and universities in a lovely setting. Bring a blanket or borrow some chairs, and hear from up-andcoming women artists reinventing pop, jazz, funk, and more.

WANT TO GO? 212-854-9422. barnard.edu.

Japan Day and Run 2018 FREE

WHEN: Sunday, May 13, 8am WHERE: Central Park, 69th Street and Fifth Avenue, Central Park AGES: All WHAT: Bring the kids out to Central Park for running, fun activities, and an opportunity to learn about Japanese culture.

WANT TO GO? japandaynyc.org.

Design Kids FREE

WHEN: May 5-19, Saturdays, 11am-3pm WHERE: Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, 2 E. 91st St., Upper East Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Participants will design an inflatable using the Cooper Hewitt collection as inspiration.

WANT TO GO? 212-849-8400. cooperhewitt.org.

Family Fun Day Festival FREE

WHEN: Sunday, May 27, 11am-4pm WHERE: Governors Island, ferries leave from 10 South St., Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Held over Memorial Day Weekend, this outdoor festival features award-winning live music and theatrical performances, storytelling, arts and crafts, science and nature workshops, ice cream and snacks, a buildyour-own playground, and more.

WANT TO GO? 212-440-2200. govisland.com. ›› BigAppleParent 27

Family Afternoon: Blooming Blossoms

WHEN: Sunday, May 13, 1-4pm WHERE: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Drop in for free, hands-on family fun with all materials provided.

This afternoon’s theme is Blooming Blossoms.

WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors; $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

Tiny Tools

CRAFTY KIDS Studio Sunday with Lexy Ho-Tai

WHEN: Sunday, May 6, 10am-1pm WHERE: The Museum of Arts and Design, 2 Columbus Circle, Columbus Circle AGES: 3-17 WHAT: Join artist and Van Lier Fellow Lexy Ho-Tai to create a Kooker—a wild and wacky creature from a mysterious, playful, faraway world.

WANT TO GO? $16; $14 seniors; $12 students; free for children younger than 18. 212-299-7777. madmuseum.org.

MADmakes with Dana Melamed

WHEN: Thursday, May 10, 6pm WHERE: The Museum of Arts and Design, 2 Columbus Circle, Columbus Circle AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Participants will explore the different textures that can be created from everyday objects, culminating in the creation of mixed-media foil sculptures.

WANT TO GO? Free with pay-what-you-wish admission. 212-2997777. madmuseum.org.

Mother’s Day Card Workshop

WHEN: Saturday, May 12, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: The Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Battery Park City AGES: All WHAT: Show mom how much you care and create a fun, architecture-inspired Mother’s Day card.

WANT TO GO? $5. 212-945-6324. skyscraper.org.

Family Day: Building Ornament

WHEN: Saturday, May 12, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm WHERE: Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place, Greenwich Village AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Participants will go on a walk in Greenwich Village to find examples of different types of ornament, then return to the center to create their own building detail designs out of clay.

WANT TO GO? $6; $12 children. 212-358-6133. centerforarchitecture.org.

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May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: May 11-17, see website for dates, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: Inspired by the new exhibition Scale: Possibilities of Perspective, museum guests will design and create their very own teeny tiny tools.

Using toothpicks, young artists can learn to build miniature cutlery, pencils, hammers, nails, and more.

WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Family Tours

WHEN: May 12-26, Saturdays, 10:45-11:20am, 11:45am-12:20pm, and 12:45-1:20pm WHERE: The Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., Meatpacking District AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Join a short, interactive family tour of kid-friendly works on view. Learn about art together through lively discussion and fun gallery activities.

WANT TO GO? $25; $18 seniors and students; free for children 18 and younger. 212-570-3600. whitney.org.

What’s ‘Anthropomorphic’? Body Buildings!

WHEN: Saturday, May 26, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Battery Park City AGES: All WHAT: Buildings have skeletons just like people do. Trace your body on poster paper and use your own “skeleton frame” as a starting place for designing a bulding as unique as you are.

WANT TO GO? $5. 212-945-6324. skyscraper.org.

Finger Puppets

WHEN: May 21-27, see website for dates, 12-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: Use soft materials such as felt, yarn, and fabric to create your very own finger puppets.

WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Learning Through Art Presents A Year With Children 2018

WHEN: Through June 13: Monday-Wednesday and Friday, 10am5:45pm; Saturday, 10am-7:45pm; Sunday, 10am-5:45pm WHERE: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: An exhibition of more than 100 artworks by New York City Public School students from across the five boroughs culminates a year of collaborative learning.

WANT TO GO? $25; $18 seniors and students; free for children younger than 12. 212-423-3500. guggenheim.org.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS Haitian Cultural Festival

WHEN: Sunday, May 6, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: A celebration of Haitian culture with workshops and performances inspired by traditional and contemporary Haitian art. Enjoy storytelling and songs by Riva Nyri Precil, presented by the Haiti Cultural Exchange.

WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Ready, Set, Summer! FREE

WHEN: Sunday, May 6, 10am-5:30pm WHERE: Grand Bazaar NYC, 100 W. 77th St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: NY Handmade Collective is partnering once again with Grand Bazaar NYC to present this summer kickoff event, a juried showcase of goods, handcrafted exclusively by the NYHC, artisans, and designers.

WANT TO GO? 646-496-5305. nyhandmadecollective.org.

Bump Bash

WHEN: Monday, May 7, 7-8:30pm WHERE: Marlene Meyerson JCC, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: Adult WHAT: This promises to be a fun evening of mocktails and connecting with other parents-to-be and experts in sleep, breast-feeding, and other relevant topics to get you prepped for your new addition. Sponsored by Bugaboo.

WANT TO GO? $15. 646-505-5700. jccmanhattan.org.

Taste of Tribeca

WHEN: Saturday, May 19, 11:30am-3pm WHERE: Outdoor Food Festival, 334 Greenwich St., Tribeca AGES: All WHAT: This outdoor culinary festival features dishes from more than 65 of Tribeca’s best-rated restaurants. The family-friendly event will have Kids’ and Sports Zones and live entertainment. The annual fundraising event benefits local public schools P.S. 150 and P.S. 234.

WANT TO GO? $45 and up. 917-595-3056. tasteoftribeca.com.

NYC Vegetarian Food Festival

WHEN: May 19-20, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-6pm WHERE: Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St., Flatiron District AGES: All WHAT: Dig into all things vegetarian at this gathering of chefs, medical experts, nutritionists, and enthusiasts for a plant-based lifestyle.

WANT TO GO? $30; free for children 10 and younger. nycvegfoodfest.com.

Annual Children’s Festival: Celebrating imagiNATIONS! FREE

WHEN: May 19-20, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, 1 Bowling Green, Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the ingenuity of the indigenous cultures of the Americas.

WANT TO GO? 212-514-3700. nmai.si.edu.

Hester Street Fair 2018 FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 27: Saturdays, 11am-6pm WHERE: Hester Street Fair, Essex and Hester streets, Lower East Side AGES: All WHAT: The Hester Street Fair is part food court, part flea market, with rotating vendors in more than 60 spots almost every warm-weather weekend.

WANT TO GO? hesterstreetfair.com.

SPECIAL NEEDS Passport to the Arts Program for Children with Disabilities and their Families FREE WHEN: Saturday, May 5, 10:30am, 11:30am, and 12:30pm WHERE: Frederick P. Rose Hall, 60th Street and Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy a low-sensory Jazz at Lincoln Center WeBop: Adapted Music Class designed for young children with disabilities and their families.

WANT TO GO? 212-875-5375. lincolncenter.org.

Big Umbrella Festival

WHEN: Through May 6: Saturday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Lincoln Center, Broadway and 65th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 3-17 WHAT: The Big Umbrella Festival is the world’s first month-long festival dedicated to performing arts programs for children on the autism spectrum and their families, offering three original interactive theater productions made for your family, as well as relaxed performances across the Lincoln Center campus.

WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 212-875-5833. bigumbrellafestival.org.

Autism Spectrum Tour: The Discovery Squad FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 1: Saturdays, 9-10am WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, 79th Street and Central Park West, Upper West Side AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Families with members on the autism spectrum can attend a 40-minute tour led by specially trained guides, then spend some time exploring the Discovery Room before the museum opens to the public.

WANT TO GO? 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

Access+Ability

WHEN: Through Sept. 3: Sunday-Friday, 10am-6pm; Saturday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, 2 E. 91st St., Upper East Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: This powerful new exhibit displays more than 70 products, projects, and services developed by and with people with disabilities— physical, cognitive, and sensory—that expand their ability to lead independent lives and engage more fully in the world.

WANT TO GO? $18; $12 seniors; $9 students; free for children younger than 18. 212-849-8400. cooperhewitt.org. ›› BigAppleParent 29

Family Matinee Dance Performance

WHEN: Saturday, May 19, 2pm WHERE: New York Live Arts, 219 W. 19th St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: The all-female Ariel Rivka Dance celebrates its 11th season under the helm of choreographer Ariel Grossman while collaborating with the Amy Marshall Dance Company and choreographer/dancer Chanel DaSilva.

WANT TO GO? $15-$75; $1 for children younger than 18. 212-9240077. newyorklivearts.org.

Pratyaksha - Painting with Dance

WHEN: Sunday, May 20, 4-5:30pm WHERE: Dixon Place, 161A Chrystie St., Lower Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Seven creative, independent women of the Aalokam Dance Company will push the boundaries of Bharatanatyam with their debut performance, which uses classic Indian dance pieces to explore western arr.

WANT TO GO? $30. 212-219-0736. aalokam.com.

DANCE PARTY Shabbat Sing-Along! FREE

WHEN: Friday, May 4, 9-9:30am WHERE: Marlene Meyerson JCC, 334 Amserdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Bring your little ones to welcome Shabbat with singing and dancing. Join the celebration in the JCC lobby.

WANT TO GO? 646-505-5700. jccmanhattan.org.

17th Annual Irish Dance Festival FREE

WHEN: Sunday, May 6, 1-7pm WHERE: Pier I, Riverside Park South, Riverside Drive and West 68th Street, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Learn the difference between sean-nós, céilí, and step dance with opportunities for all to join in. Performers include festival favorites Donny Golden Dancers, Niall O’Leary Dance Troupe, Darrah Carr Dance, and Niall O’Leary School of Irish Dance, plus special guests.

WANT TO GO? 866-811-4111. irishartscenter.org.

Ballet Hispánico en Familia

WHEN: Sunday, May 13, 3pm WHERE: United Palace, 4140 Broadway, Washington Heights AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Before the show, join Ballet Hispánico artistic director Eduardo Vilaro on stage for Baila Con Mami (Dance with Mommy) to journey through Latino dance legacy from the cha cha cha to merengue. After the show, there will be a Q-and-A with the dancers.

WANT TO GO? $15; free for children 12 and younger. 646-765-4773. unitedpalace.org.

Loco-Motion Dance Theatre for Children

WHEN: Saturday, May 19, 7pm WHERE: Miller Theatre, 2960 Broadway, Morningside Heights AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Young dancers address the following subjects in their choreography: communication breakdowns in the age of social media, relationship dynamics in teen friendships, peer pressure, non-conformity, childhood anxiety under the Trump administration, and the border wall.

WANT TO GO? $25; $15 for children 12 and younger. 212-854-7799. lmdt.org.

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Lincoln Center Kids Presents: ‘Tetris’

WHEN: May 19-20, Saturday, 11am and 2pm; Sunday, 11am WHERE: Clark Studio Theater, Samuel B. and David Rose Building, 165 W. 65th St., 7th Floor, Upper West Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Inspired by the classic video game Tetris, this awe-inspiring performance features an extremely physical quartet of dancers.

WANT TO GO? $25. 212-721-6500. kidsportal.lincolncenter.org.

ANIMAL LOVERS Jackson Galaxy’s Cat Camp

WHEN: May 5-6, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6:30pm WHERE: Penn Pavilion, 401 Seventh Ave., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: This event will bring cat lovers and experts from around the world together to share advice, wisdom, and gear for both cats and their humans.

WANT TO GO? $25 and up; $13 children ages 6-12; free for children younger than 6. catcampnyc.com.

Birding Bonanza FREE

WHEN: Saturday, May 12, 10am-2pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Little Hell Gate Salt Marsh, Randall’s Island AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Explore 20 acres of natural habitat with live birds and information on bird rehabilitation from the Wild Bird Fund, and enjoy guided walks.

WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Meet the Fledglings with the Wild Bird Fund

WHEN: Saturday, May 12, 2pm WHERE: DiMenna Children’s Museum at New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Watch a presentation about the bird life of New York City and wild bird rehabilitation, then feed a baby bird in the Wild Bird Fund’s care.

WANT TO GO? $21; $11 children. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org/childrens-museum.

Boogie Down at the Bronx Zoo

WHEN: Through June 3: Saturday-Sunday, 10am-4:30pm WHERE: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate wildlife and the diverse culture of the Boogiedown Borough.

WANT TO GO? $36.95; $31.95 seniors; $26.95 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 2. 718-220-5100. bronxzoo.com.

SMARTY PANTS

MINI

MUSICIANS

Math Encounters: ‘Math for Democracy: The Mathematics of Voting Redistricting’ with Ben Blum-Smith FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, May 2, 4-5:30pm and 7-8:30pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Gramercy AGES: All WHAT: Join mathematician and educator Ben Blum-Smith and discover how recent advances in mathematics are being used to work for fairer elections.

WANT TO GO? 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Unlimited

WHEN: Sunday, May 6, 6:30-8pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Gramercy AGES: 9-17 WHAT: A fun-filled, math-focused night where you can hang out with old and new friends, enjoy cookies and hot chocolate, and dance.

WANT TO GO? $15-$25. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

The Amazing Mother’s Day Scavenger Hunt

WHEN: Sunday, May 13, 1:30pm WHERE: Slattery’s Midtown Pub, 8 E. 36th St., #3, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: A series of clues leads you around the city performing physical and mental challenges along the way.

WANT TO GO? $39. 718-344-8962. pogoevents.com.

Mindfulness for Families

WHEN: Sunday, May 13, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: The Rubin Museum, 150 W. 17th St., Chelsea AGES: 3-8, adult WHAT: Join Ayman Mukerji Househam, a mindfulness teacher and researcher, for this four-session series to cultivate a more mindful family.

WANT TO GO? $50. 212-620-5000. rubinmuseum.org.

Second Sundays Dig Drop-In

WHEN: Sunday, May 13, 12-3pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Kids discover a passion for ancient artifacts in the museum’s simulated archaeological dig.

WANT TO GO? $15; $12 seniors; $7.50 students; free for children 18 and younger. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

Art Explorers

WHEN: Through May 15: Tuesdays, 4-5pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Preschoolers and their adult companions can explore Scenes from the Collection, the museum’s new collection exhibit, through themed tours and engaging gallery activities, followed by a visit to the museum’s art studio.

WANT TO GO? $10. 212-423-3200. jewishmuseum.org.

Astronomy Live: Multiwavelength Universe

WHEN: Tuesday, May 29, 7pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, 79th Street and Central Park West, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: The universe is full of light, from the many hues of the visible spectrum to waves we can’t see like X-rays, gamma rays, and infrared light. What can these wavelengths tell us about celestial bodies and the universe at large?

WANT TO GO? $15; $13.50 seniors and students. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

Artist Series Concert: The Joao Martins Trio FREE

WHEN: Friday, May 4, 7-8pm WHERE: Turtle Bay Music School, 244 E. 52nd St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: This ensemble of accomplished performers presents a program of original compositions.

WANT TO GO? 212-753-8811. tbms.org.

Rug Concert

WHEN: Saturday, May 5, 10am-2pm WHERE: The Diller-Quaile School of Music, 24 E. 95th St., Upper East Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Experience musicianship in an atmosphere of interactive music making.

WANT TO GO? $25. 212-369-1484. diller-quaile.org.

WQXR Family Concert: Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf

WHEN: Saturday, May 12, 2pm WHERE: The Greene Space, 44 Charlton St., Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: Experience the magic of Peter and the Wolf in a unique and humorous interpretation performed by musicians from the Brooklyn Conservatory Community Orchestra.

WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 646-829-4000. thegreenespace.org.

Carnegie Hall Family Concert: My City, My Song

WHEN: Saturday, May 12, 12pm and 3pm WHERE: Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall, 881 Seventh Ave., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: A colorful, participatory experience that provides children with the opportunity to discover music from different parts of the world. Free pre-concert activities take place in Zankel Hall one hour prior.

WANT TO GO? $10. 212-247-7800. carnegiehall.org.

New York Philharmonic Young People’s Concerts, Inspirations and Tributes: ‘The Riddle of Shostakovich’ WHEN: Saturday, May 19, 2pm WHERE: David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Attendees are invited to arrive early to take part in YPC Overtures, at which children meet Philharmonic musicians and try out instruments.

WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 212-875-5030. lincolncenter.org.

Open Set 2018: A Night of Original Musical Performance

WHEN: Thursday, May 24, 6:30-8:30pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Gramercy AGES: All WHAT: Mathemusicians around the world sent in their best original mathematical lyrics or compositions.

WANT TO GO? $8. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Jazz for Kids

WHEN: Through May 27: Sundays, 2-3pm WHERE: Jazz Standard, 116 E. 27th St., Kips Bay AGES: All WHAT: Musicians ages 11-18 dish out jazz classics as family audiences devour the goods off Blue Smoke’s southern barbecue lunch menu.

WANT TO GO? $5 suggestion donation. 212-576-2232. jazzstandard.com. ››

BigAppleParent 31

‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show’

WHEN: Through May 20: Thursday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: DR2 Theatre, 103 E. 15th St., Gramercy Park AGES: 3-5 WHAT: A theatrical recreation of Eric Carle’s beautifully imaginative stories, featuring enchanting puppets during a magical 60-minute show.

WANT TO GO? $49.50 and up. 800-982-2787. hungrycaterpillarshow.com.

‘Geniuses’

WHEN: Through May 20: Friday, 7pm; Saturday-Sunday, 2pm and 4pm WHERE: TADA! Youth Theater, 15 W. 28th St., 3rd Floor, Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: A musical about two kids from a school for children who learn differently, who sneak into an elite private school for students with exceptionally high IQs and shake things up for the better, especially when they uncover one student’s evil plot to take control of the world.

WANT TO GO? $25; $15 children. 212-252-1619. tadatheater.com.

‘The Gruffalo: Live on Stage’

WHEN: Sunday, May 20, 1:30pm WHERE: BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, 199 Chambers St., Tribeca AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in Tall Stories’ magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

WANT TO GO? $30. 212-220-1460. tribecapac.org.

‘Peppa Pig Live!’

SHOW TIME! ‘Bindlestiff, Open Stage Variety Show’

WHEN: Monday, May 7, 7:30pm WHERE: Dixon Place, 161A Chrystie St., Lower Manhattan AGES: 3 and older WHAT: An uncompromising theatrical experience that includes aerial artists, wire walkers, sword swallowers, Kung Fu juggling, clown bands, trained rats, a heavy metal magician, a cougar contortionist, and a cowboy from the Bronx.

WANT TO GO? $12 suggested donation. 212-219-0736. dixonplace.org.

‘Seedfolks’

WHEN: May 4-11, Friday, 7pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 3pm WHERE: The New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 9 and older WHAT: From Ana, a crotchety old Romanian woman, to Gonzalo, a feisty Latino teenager, a fractured neighborhood comes together when spirited, young Kim plants some precious beans in a nearby vacant lot. Based on the book by Paul Fleischman.

WANT TO GO? $16 and up. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

‘Pinkalicious: The Musical’

WHEN: Through May 13: Sundays, 1pm WHERE: Theater at Blessed Sacrament, 152 W. 71st St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Pinkalicious can’t stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor’s office with Pinkititis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe. Only Pinkalicious can figure out a way to get out of this predicament.

WANT TO GO? $49.50. 212-579-0528. vitaltheatre.org.

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WHEN: May 19-20, Saturday-Sunday, 12pm and 4pm WHERE: Beacon Theatre, 2124 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Join Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, and more in a singing-and-dancing adventure full of songs, games, and surprises.

WANT TO GO? $30.75 and up. 866-858-0007. msg.com/family.

‘Pss Pss’

WHEN: May 19-20, Saturday, 11am, 3pm, and 7pm; Sunday, 11am and 3pm WHERE: The New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Inspired by the silent film era, this clowning couple fumbles through merry mishaps, absurd antics, and priceless pas de deux. They snicker and stumble, squabble and make peace, all without a word (but with a little help from the audience!).

WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

‘Aladdin’

WHEN: May 12-20, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater New York, 357 W. 36th St., Midtown AGES: 5-17 WHAT: When Aladdin finds a genie in a lamp his dreams of riches come true. But in order to win the love of the princess and save the kingdom, Aladdin will need more than a genie’s magic.

WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaternyc.com.

‘The Princess and the Pea’

WHEN: May 5-27, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater New York, 357 W. 36th St., Midtown AGES: 3-8 WHAT: A prince is looking for a princess. After a failed attempt at speed dating, the right woman shows up at his door. Only the Royal Pea Test will reveal if she is a true princess.

WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaternyc.com.

MOVERS & SHAKERS THE GREAT OUTDOORS Start with Art and Music

Central Park Tour Discovery Walk for Families: Gardens FREE

StoryDance Playgroup FREE

Central Park Discovery Walk for Families: Towering Trees FREE

WHEN: Thursday, May 3, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Look, move, and sing while exploring art and music together in the galleries. This month’s theme is Inside/Outside.

WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors; $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

WHEN: Through May 3, Thursdays, 9:30-10:15am WHERE: Downtown Dance Factory, 291 Broadway, 4th Floor, Tribeca AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Walking tots and preschoolers take part in story time, a craft, dance games, and activities, plus free play time.

WANT TO GO? 212-962-1800. downtowndancefactory.com.

Puppetsburg + WINE TASTING

WHEN: Sunday, May 13, 3:30-4:45pm WHERE: Some Good Wine Event Space, 13 E. 8th St., Greenwich Village AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Puppetsburg performs interactive shows that involve music, instruments, dancing, and plenty of 1-on-1 time with the handmade puppets.

Check out this interactive show that includes a wine tasting for adults.

WANT TO GO? $25. puppetsburg.com.

4th Annual Hudson River Park Games FREE

WHEN: Saturday, May 19, 9:30am-3:30pm WHERE: Hudson River Park, Pier 40, West Houston Street and West Street, Greenwich Village AGES: All WHAT: The daylong tournament will test strength and stamina, as teams fight to the finish in heats of dodgeball, volleyball, kayaking, basketball, and flag football, capping off the action with a “take no prisoners” championship match.

WANT TO GO? 212-757-0981 x742. hudsonriverparkgames.org.

Summer on the Hudson: Learn to Ride for Kids FREE

WHEN: Saturday, May 26, 10:30am-4:30pm WHERE: Hudson River Greenway, bike path at 135th Street, Harlem AGES: 5 and older WHAT: New riders will learn to balance, ride, and enjoy life on two wheels. Bring your bike and helmet. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org.

The Amazing Fleet Week Scavenger Hunt

WHEN: Sunday, May 27, 1:30pm WHERE: Slattery’s Midtown Pub, 8 E. 36th St., #3, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: This hunt celebrates our military as they descend upon New York City for this traditional week kicking off Memorial Day weekend. Each member of the winning team receives a New York City gift package.

WANT TO GO? $39. 718-344-8962. pogoevents.com.

WHEN: Saturday, May 26, 10-11:30am WHERE: Vanderbilt Gate at Conservatory Garden, Fifth Avenue between 104th and 105th streets, Upper East Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Spot thousands of blooms in Central Park’s Conservatory Garden and discover the difference between the various flowers and landscapes that make up the park’s formal garden.

WANT TO GO? 212-310-6600. centralparknyc.org.

WHEN: April 14-May 28, Saturdays, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, 110th Street between Lenox and Fifth avenues, Central Park AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Bring your family for a guided walk and discover why Central Park is a sanctuary for plants, animals, and humans alike. Learn about the architecture, landscapes, and ecosystems of the park through handson exploration using Discovery Kits: rugged backpacks filled with kidfriendly binoculars, field guides, and hand lenses.

WANT TO GO? 212-310-6600. centralparknyc.org.

Art on the Farm FREE

WHEN: May 5-Oct. 13, Saturdays, 2-4pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park Alliance, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Use the farm for inspiration for creating seasonal projects such as nature printing, watercolor painting, nature journals, and more.

WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Urban Farm Exploration Days FREE

WHEN: May 5-Oct. 14, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park Alliance, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Explore the Urban Farm’s variety of crops, fruit trees, fragrant herbs, and chickens too. Also, join for fun farm art projects on Saturdays from 2-4pm.

WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.

Governors Island Open Season

WHEN: May 1-Oct. 31, Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-7pm WHERE: Governors Island, ferries leave from 10 South St., Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: It’s time once again to hop on the ferry to Governors Island to enjoy beautifully lush landscapes and a calendar full of concerts and free programming.

Ferries will be free for all visitors during the first week of the season.

WANT TO GO? $3; free for children younger than 13; free for all passengers Saturday-Sunday until 11:30am. 212-440-2200. govisland.com.

Coming up next month: JUNE 9: The Great Randall’s Island Treasure Hunt at Field 80, Randall’s Island JUNE 12: Museum Mile Festival at Fifth Avenue, Upper East Side JUNE 17: Egg Rolls, Egg Creams and Empanadas Festival at The Museum at Eldridge Street, Lower East Side

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things to do

outbound

Family Fun a Ride Away

The historic mill and bridge at the Philipsburg Manor

Courtesy Margaret Fox Photography

Courtesy Bryan Haeffele

In Westchester County‌

Katonah Museum celebrates Spring Family Fun Day with traditional Persian dance performances.

Katonah Museum

Philipsburg Manor

The formerly thriving farm, milling, and trading center owned by a family of Anglo-Dutch merchants is now a beautiful landmark for hands-on activities of the 18th century. Learn about foodways, textile production techniques, and medicinal practices of the colonial Philipsburg inhabitants in the activity center. There are plenty of fun ways to get involved and learn about what life was like in colonial Philipsburg.

Visit it: 381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow; 914-366-6900; hudsonvalley.org

This non-collecting institution rotates exhibitions every year to explore different aspects of culture and tradition. Stop by the KMA Learning Center which is a fun activity space for children of all ages to enjoy art projects that coincide with annual exhibitions, create art, and learn about culture through puzzles and games. KMA Community Days offer unforgettable cultural experiences for the whole family that coincide with the annual art exhibition.

Visit it: 134 Jay St., Route 22, Katonah; 914-232-9555; katonahmuseum.org

Courtesy Land of Make Believe

Courtesy J. Rozell/ NYS Parks

o and bey nd!

Children can meet live animals at the Jones Beach Nature Center.

Children can ride on the Thriller Roller Coaster at this family-friendly amusement park in Hope, NJ.

Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center at Jones Beach State Parks

Land of Make Believe

Explore and learn about various marine habitats including the South Shore Estuary Reserve, the seashore, and the dune environment when the Jones Beach Nature Center opens at the end of May. Enjoy a beautiful day by the ocean to see the plants and animals that inhabit the dune environment. Inside the nature center, kids can meet live marine animals, walk through the butterfly garden, and even dig up whalebones in the Discover Bone Cove.

Visit it: Jones Beach Island, Wantagh; 516-780-3295; parks.ny.gov 34

May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

This family favorite amusement park is having its grand opening Memorial Day Weekend. Rides and attractions include the action river ride, the brand-new Ferris wheel, a roller coaster, and the Buccaneer Pirate Ship and wading pool. The newest ride, The Scream Machine 360, will be introduced at this year’s grand opening. The Land of Make Believe has been entertaining families for 60 years with its fun rides, shows, waterpark, picnic area, and more.

Visit it: 354 Great Meadows Road, Hope, NJ; 908-459-9000; lomb.com

SPECIALTY CAMP MARKETPLACE

Want to make the most out of your child’s summer?

Register them in JOAN’s SUMMER ART CAMP today!

NOT your ordinary day camp - group size limited from 6-8 kids for 8-11 year olds so hurry up and sign!

Joan is a working artist and educator with experience in public and private art education, and her assistant is an illustration major with fine art and experience with children.

There will be trips to museums, the aquarium, nature hikes, and swimming! Campers will respond to these visits in paint, mixed media, and modeling materials in Joan’s West Village studio. All artistic activities are designed to enhance outside experiences.

Dates: July 2 - August 17 Sessions last 1 week each. Schedule repeats every 2 weeks with some variations.

Time: 9am - 4:30pm | Cost per week: $650.00 ($520.00 for the week of July 2nd).

Get a 10% discount if you pay before May 15!

Get a 15% reduction for signing up a sibling, or a $100 reduction for a friend’s sign up! $25.00 extra per week for early drop-offs (8:30am) or late pick-ups (5pm).

55 Bethune St. C322 NYC, 10014 | Sign your child up at: joanroberts909@gmail.com Contact her at the following numbers: (347)-978-1045 | (212)-414-8419 Visit: www.joanstudioschool.blogspot.com | www.joanrobertsgarciart.com

STEM Camps

brand new topics!

summer 2018

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

• • • • • •

archaeology marine biology coding with Scratch Jr coding with Scratch coding with Python coding with App Inventor

• • • • •

biorobotics mBot robotics architecture sports science physics

Sign up for Launch’s exciting and educational one-week STEM summer camps with topics rotating weekly!

Also at Launch: Math Programs • STEM Classes • Holiday Camps • Private Instruction Multiple Manhattan Locations • www.launchmath.com • 212-600-1010 • info@launchmath.com BigAppleParent 35

Abrons Arts Center abronsartscenter.org Asphalt Green Day Camp asphaltgreen.org

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Dwight Summer Camp dwightsummercamp.org

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Boston Leadership Institute bostonleadershipinstitute.com

Chelsea Piers Summer Sports Camps chelseapiers.com

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Theater

STEAM/Robotics

PROGRAMS:

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Camp Guide

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SPECIALTY CAMP MARKETPLACE

Camp Clio

eventh S r u O nd Year a g din Expan ion iss Our M

a seriously fun place for adopted children...

Youths and Teens Camp Clio

(Ages 9 - 12)

July 1 to July 21, 2018 (1, 2, or 3 weeks) Held at Camp Claire Lyme, CT

Camp Clio Teen

(Ages 13 - 16)

July 1-6 or July 7-13, 2018 (1 or 2 weeks) Held at Middlesex County Camp Moodus, CT

YMCA

SUMMER CAMPS FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE

Observe whales, porpoises, puffins, seals, and a variety of other marine life up-close in their natural habitat. Explore a unique island ecosystem and make connections that will last a life time!

Hands-on programs in marine science, oceanography, and whale research on beautiful Grand Manan Island in the Bay of Fundy.

College credit program and $40,000 college scholarships available for high school students

For more information & FREE brochure, please visit: www.whalecamp.com

» SPACES FILL UP QUICK, REGISTER TODAY! «

NEW YORK CITY’S YMCA

ymcanyc.org/camp BigAppleParent 37

Ecole Internationale de New York einy.org

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Modeling Camp modelingcamp.com

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Pusteblume International Preschool pusteblumenyc.org

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Camp Guide

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SPECIALTY CAMP MARKETPLACE

SINCE 1983

FRENCH LANGUAGE CAMPS in Montréal

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

BANISH “I’M BORED!” THIS SUMMER STEM PROGRAMS THROUGHOUT AUGUST • For 5th-8th Graders • Fun Activities and Field Trips Conducted by STEM Professionals • Build Problem Solving Skills While Making New Friends!

Teen Creative Writing Classes in NYC & Online GOTHAMWRITERS. COM

USE CODE NYMETRO18 TO SAVE $60

Learn more and register at nyas.org/nymetro2018 customerservice@nyas.org

43rd St. Kids Summer Day Camp July 9th - August 17th One week sessions Ages 3 to 6 years 212-564-7496 • prekids43@aol.com www.43rdstreetkidspreschool.org

June 23-July 13, 2018 Weekly enrollment Ages 4 to 10 All levels of French welcome Early drop-off, late pick-up for busy families

LANGUAGE-IMMERSION SUMMER CAMP LYCÉE FRANÇAIS DE NEW YORK | 505 EAST 75TH ST., NEW YORK (212) 369-1400

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The Ballet Club theballetclub.com

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PROGRAMS: Half-Day

Flexible Scheduling

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SERVICES:

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SPECIALTY CAMP MARKETPLACE

Children’s Museum of the Arts

Week-Long Hands On Art Making Day Camps For Ages 5 –15 • June 18 - September 7

LOOK

MAKE

SHARE

SUMMER ART COLONY at 103 Charlton and on historic Governors Island! REGISTER TODAY AT CMANY.ORG!

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SPECIALTY CAMP MARKETPLACE Grapplin’ Gorillas, a unique youth wrestling program in Manhattan, offers more than grappling and takedowns this summer.

It’s all about movement!

The camp is open to boys and girls ages 4-13 and takes place at The Center at West Park on West 86th Street.

Teruelfamilyimmersion

Your whole family can learn Spanish together!

Available dates July 15

August 5

Teruel

Book your 2 week customized immersive experience.

Enjoy the small city lifestyle along your whole family in Teruel, the City of Love, in the cradle of Spanish language. We offer multiple ways to enhance your language skills as a family, and will tailor our programs to your specific ages and interests.

Day Camps for Children Aged 6 -14

Workshops Excursions Social Activities

917-273-1931 | www.grapplingorillas.com

Lodging & Meal plans available

THALIA BOOK CLUB CAMP

www.teruelfamilyimmersion.com info@teruelfamilyimmersion.com

For avid readers and writers ages 11–14

As featured on

Modeling Camp

TM

ON THE UPPER WEST SIDE

Camps for girls ages 11-17

Ballet & Theater Summer Day Camp at The Ballet Club

• Ballet • Drama • Music • Puppetry • Costume Shop • Yoga • Story Time • Outdoor Activities and More!

Select the days and weeks that work for you:

modelingcamp.com

July 9 – August 31

Call for more info:

9:30 am – 2:30 pm; Drop off 9:00 – 9:30 am

888-757-5575

Movement Mini-Camp (9:30 am-12:30 pm) & Movement & Art Camp also available

Register online today!

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yrs. of Fun, Friend s, & Fitness!

Great Perks For Members

Call 917-281-1030 or email info@theballetclub.com for more information.

Gymnastics •

visit www.theballetclub.com to register online.

Ninja Challenge •

Pusteblume

Music •

Jodi’s To Go • For Kids 9 mos to 12 yrs

V is it O u r To ta Awes o mlly e New ly Ren ova te d Fa ci lity!

Summer & School • Break Camps

German and Spanish language immersion

Best Birthdays Ever •

●Preschool ●After School ●Camps ●Ages 2-12

Nothing Else Even Comes Close!

www.jodisgym.com

25 Hubbels Dr. Mt. Kisco • 914.244.8811 244 E. 84th St. NYC • 212.772.7633

International School

212-206-1137 info@pusteblumenyc.org www.pusteblumenyc.org

Playtime •

a nurturing setting that cultivates the

!

growth and development of your child BigAppleParent 41

SPECIALTY CAMP MARKETPLACE @BaruchCamp

Visit our website or call us at:

Fees Based on Enrollment: Up to 3 weeks $725 per week Up to 6 weeks $575 per week Up to 8 weeks $425 per week

Week 1: BaruchSummerCamp Week 2: Week 3: Week 4: Week 5: Week 6: CO -ED! AGES 5-15!

Week 7: Week 8:

6/25 - 6/29 7/02 - 7/06 7/09 - 7/13 7/16 - 7/20 7/23 - 7/27 7/30 - 8/03 8/06 - 8/10 8/13 - 8/17

Visit an Open House to learn about our special discounted rates!

If paid in full by June 1st - $100 discount If paid in full by June 15th - $50 discount

Upcoming Open House Event Scheduled: Tuesday, May 22 • 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Check out our golf programs for kids in NYC, and Montauk Downs. ktuga.com

Galli Theater New York Princess and The Pea: May 5th, 6th, 27th, 28th at 2pm Aladdin: May 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th at 2pm Offering summer musical acting camps

Want more parenting tips, tools & resources...

NYMetroParents.com Helping parents make better decisions

Be Social

357 West 36th St. #202 galliny@gmail.com New York, NY 10018 gallitheaternyc.com 212-731-0668 BIRTHDAY PARTIES • CAMPS • WORKSHOPS

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PartyCentral PARTY ENTERTAINMENT BAKETIVITY 347-534-8131 baketivity.com; help@baketivity.com A scrumptious box of baking activities—along with fun and learning—delivered straight to your door!

Order a box to bake for a group or birthday party for a fun-filled experience!

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 BREAKAWAY HOOPS 646-776-2021 x0 breakawayhoops.com info@breakawayhoops.com Breakaway Hoops offers birthday packages for your child’s special occasion. Come celebrate the special day with us, and we will make it memorable.

BROADWAY DANCE CENTER CHILDREN & TEENS 37 W. 65th St., 3rd floor 212-582-9304 broadwaydancecenter.com Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens loves a good dance party! Your birthday dancer and guests are sure to love these birthday parties set in our beautiful, spacious studios. Choose a theme and party package.

Come celebrate with us!

CHELSEA PIERS SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park Field House Registration Desk: 212-336-6500 x6520 chelseapiers.com/youth Why cross the bridge for your next birthday party?

Because Chelsea Piers parties are action-packed, entertaining, and hassle-free, with more sports, activities, and fun than any other party venue in NYC! CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF THE ARTS 103 Charlton St. 212-274-0986 cmany.org/about/birthdays-rentals/birthdays

Your local guide to entertainers, party places, activities, and other resources.

Art-filled parties begin with time to explore the museum’s hands-on workshops. Experienced teaching artists lead children in your choice of private workshop. Parties end with food and cake.

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 357 W. 36th St., Suite #202 212-731-0668 gallitheaternyc.com galliny@gmail.com Party with the Galli Theater New York and experience the magic of live theater for your special event! Your child loves the theater and would love to be on stage?

Allow your child to experience the most amazing theater party in town!

INTREPID SEA, AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Pier 86, West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue 646-381-5166 intrepidmuseum.org Celebrate your child’s birthday with a one-of-a-kind party! The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum will captivate groups of all ages and interests. Choose from exciting themes, value packages, and customization options to create a birthday adventure they’ll remember forever!

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.

JUST KIDDING AT SYMPHONY SPACE 2537 Broadway 212-864-1414 x289 symphonyspace.org/justkidding Just Kidding parties are artsy, imaginative, and fun, designed to make party planning easy and engaging!

Through the show, kids have the chance to interact with Just Kidding artists creating a once in a lifetime birthday party experience.

KATE TEMPESTA’S URBAN GOLF ACADEMY 917-270-7257 ktuga.com/birthday-parties mari@ktuga.com KTUGA’s parties are customized to your child’s interests.

Think Pirate Golf Fun to Princess Castle Chipping. Ideal for ages 3-8. Select from different activities to highlight our golf games, including storytelling, shadow screen play, and music and movement.

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 914-722-0072 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!

PALISADES CLIMB ADVENTURE 4590 Palisades Center Drive, Level 4 of the Palisades Center, West Nyack 845-727-3500 palisadesclimb.com Palisades Climb Adventure offers the world’s tallest indoor ropes challenge course with 75 unique challenge elements. Our Sky Tykes kids’ ropes course is designed for ages 2-7. Both courses are available for birthday parties. Book your party today!

PIER 62 CAROUSEL Pier 62 at Hudson River Park (by Chelsea Piers) 718-788-2676 pier62carouselnyc.com; info@nycarousel.com Give your child the best birthday with our VIP Birthday Party Package at Hudson River Park’s whimsical carousel on the water!

ROBOFUN 2672 Broadway 212-245-0444 robofun.org; robofun@robofun.org Celebrate your next birthday making robots, video games, or animations with Robofun. Robofun birthday parties are the perfect combination of fun and creativity!

SEAGLASS CAROUSEL AT THE BATTERY Water and State streets 718-788-2676 seaglasscarousel.nyc/birthdays info@nycarousel.com Celebrate your next birthday at SeaGlass Carousel! VIP Birthday Packages start at $535 within your own exclusive party area. Book online: seaglasscarousel.nyc/birthdays.

USTA BILLIE JEAN KING NATIONAL TENNIS CENTER Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Flushing, Queens 718-760-6200 x0 ntc.usta.com Birthday party packages include 1 hour of court time with drills and games organized by our USTA Pro staff and 1 hour in a private room for pizza.

BigAppleParent 43

family life home

New Home—Now What? ››

Now that you’ve found the perfect house for your family, there are a few things you’ll want to take care of in the first year. By Barbara Russo

C

ongratulations...You just closed on your new home! The mortgage is set up, you’ve got the keys, and the family is all moved in.

What should you do next?

Well, the most stressful parts of buying a house are over, from filling out piles of paperwork to packing (and unpacking). But there’s still some settling-in work that needs to be done to make your house feel like a home. We’re talking about more than just hanging pictures or finding a place for everything.

To get you started, we spoke to experts and created a list of 10 things you should do in the first year to help set a strong foundation for an enjoyable home-owning experience now and in the years to come.

First Things First...Change the Locks!

You received the keys to your new house at the closing, but do you know how many people have copies? Changing the locks should be one of the first things you do after moving in, according to Anthony Marino, a licensed associate real estate broker based in southwest and downtown Brooklyn. “You would be surprised how many people don’t change the locks. They get the key at closing and think it’s the only copy, but meanwhile the previous family had five kids and everyone’s got keys,” he says.

Reassess Your Homeowners Insurance

It’s often necessary to have insurance in place even before making your home purchase. Many banks require new homeowners to roll their mortgage, insurance, and taxes into one payment each month. After about six months, once you’re comfortable and have gotten to know your house, it’s a good idea to take another 44

May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

look at your policy. “If you need to change things throughout the year—maybe you got too much or too little coverage—then go back to the insurance company and tell them what you need, and they should be able to work with you,” Marino says.

Special insurance is required if you’re in a flood zone; it’s not the same as homeowners insurance. “We know now from Hurricane Sandy, in certain parts of the city, we’re more susceptible to floods than we previously thought,” Marino says.

Update Your Address

You have a new address now, so make sure you officially change it.

Updating your address on your driver’s license through the DMV is a good first step to help streamline your mail service, but Marino recommends contacting utility and other service companies directly to let them know where you now live. “They don’t care who’s on the bill. They only care if someone is paying it,” Marino says.

“And if it’s not paid, they will turn off your gas, they’ll turn off your electric, and you’ll be responsible for it and not even know.”

Make Over the Kitchen and Bathroom

A well-built, fully functional, and structurally safe house is no doubt important, but many new homeowners choose to renovate the two most lived-in rooms: the kitchen and bathroom. “It’s one of the first things people do, even if the house is move-in ready,” Marino says. “I’ve seen people take a perfectly good kitchen and renovate it. It’s all about taste.”

Maintaining and updating your kitchen and bathrooms can also add instant value and purchasing appeal if you ever decide to sell your home.

Paint, Paint, Paint

Giving your new home a fresh coat of paint is an instant and easy way to freshen it up. “When you paint the house, it smells new and it feels like it’s yours,” Marino says.

Colors making a splash in 2018 home décor include turquoise, rich yellows, and earth tones, according to Elle Decor.

Family Owned & Operated for 62 Years!

Focus on the Floors

If you purchased a carpet-lined house, you might consider pulling it up. Not only is hardwood flooring a popular trend, it can also be healthier and cleaner. Carpets can hold allergens and dirt you can’t see, according to Tommy Meyers, a flooring technician based in Middletown. “It might look clean on the surface, but things like animal urine and spilled drinks will soak into padding like a sponge,” Meyers says. “Steam cleaning won’t work either—it only cleans the surface and looks good for about a week. As people walk on it, the carpet begins to soak up dirt from the padding.”

If having carpet under your feet gives you a cozy feeling, consider laying down an area rug. It’s cheaper than carpeting a whole floor, and when it’s time for a new look, you can roll it up and store it away.

Repair the Roof If Needed

Banks don’t require you to get a home inspection when taking out a mortgage, but it’s a good idea to get one so you know what problems exist before you purchase the house. Roofing is very important to look at, according to Meyers. “An inspector can climb on the roof to look for leaks and check to see how good the shingles are.

They’ll go in the attic and check for water damage,” he says.

If your inspection report comes back showing problems with the roof, improvement costs can be negotiated before you make the purchase.

Just be sure to fix the problems either before or as soon as possible after moving in so they don’t get worse or cause catastrophic damage.

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Clean Your Clothes Dryer

If your new home came with a clothes dryer, be sure to clean out its lint screens and ducts. This not only freshens it up, it saves you money and prevents a fire from occurring. Each year, 2,900 clothes-dryer fires are reported and cause an estimated five deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, a division of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. This is also good reason to clean your dryer’s lint screen before and after every load of laundry. Lint can build up behind the dryer, so check there too.

2018 Summer Program

Look at Your Landscaping

In Westchester and Manhattan

THE WINDWARD SCHOOL July 2 – July 27, 2018 (no class July 4) Enriching & Fun Half-Day and Full-Day Sessions for Grades 3–9

A house with curb appeal is nice to come home to every day. Depending on how big your property is, you can either stock up on the equipment you need to care for your yard, or research a reputable landscaping company in the area. Ask your new neighbors what landscapers they recommend. This could also be a good time to make friends in the neighborhood, which brings us to the last item on our list.

Have a Party!

After most of your first-year work is done, it might be fun to kick back and celebrate. Hosting a house-warming party is a great way to get to know your neighbors. “These are people you will possibly be spending the next 30 years of your life living next to. Get to know them, get to know the restaurants and local businesses,” Marino says.

Maintaining and updating your house over the years is a rewarding experience, and a great way to help build home equity. As most real estate experts will say, a home should always be gaining value, and that’s something to take pride in after putting in much work and care over the years.

Barbara Russo, a freelance writer with a bachelor’s degree in communications from the City University of New York, enjoys playing guitar, following current events, and hanging out with her rabbits.

• Reading, writing, math, science, arts, drama, sports, computers, and more • Courses taught by Windward-trained faculty • Morning academic courses and afternoon activities • Academic courses structured around the School’s research-based, multisensory curriculum

thewindwardschool.org/summerprogram summerprogram@thewindwardschool.org • 914.949.6968, ext. 1250

BigAppleParent 45

family life finances

Insurance You Need—But Might Not Have ››

These policies can shield you from financial headaches, and even devastating losses.

Isn’t it time you learned more about them? By Deborah Skolnik

O

ne evening a few years ago, Gerri Sanders* returned from work to an unexpectedly messy home. “Our housekeeper Susannah was supposed to have come by, but nothing had been straightened up,” she says. A few minutes later, Susannah’s son called with awful news: While Susannah had been cleaning the Sanders’ home, she’d climbed a ladder to reach a cobweb and had fallen, breaking her leg. Fortunately, she’d managed to call an ambulance.

“I was very worried about Susannah,” says Sanders, a mother of two in Scarsdale. “Then I also started worrying that she’d sue us and we’d lose everything, because she’d gotten hurt on our property while working for us. I didn’t sleep all night.” In the morning, Sanders called her insurance company and got some reassuring news: Among the family’s various policies was workers compensation, a type of insurance that provides wage replacement and/or medical benefits to workers hurt on the job. Susannah’s fall would be covered. “I was so relieved, I cried,” Sanders says.

Insurance isn’t something people spend a lot of time thinking about until they need to use it. While Sanders got lucky, many people find 46

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out too late that they are underinsured or not covered at all for their or their employees’ illnesses, accidents, and other adverse events.

Don’t be one of them! We asked experts what kinds of policies families typically overlook but may need—read on for their advice, and check with your insurance agent to determine which plans are right for you.

Disability insurance for both parents. “The most important insurance, statistically, is long-term disability coverage,” says Lou Cannataro, founder of and partner at Cannataro Park Avenue Financial. “We’ve got over a twenty-five percent chance of getting sick or hurt at some point in our lives and not being able to work.” Don’t count on your workplace disability insurance (if you have it at all) to provide you as much as you’ll need—typically these policies only cover a portion of your lost wages.

Life insurance for a non-working spouse. You likely have life insurance for the family breadwinner, but how about the at-home parent (if there is one)? “It’s a no-brainer,” Cannataro says. “That non-working spouse is extremely important,” he stresses, even

though he or she isn’t earning a salary. Think of what would happen should the at-home parent pass away, he explains: “Would the working parent be able to be in the seven o’clock meeting at work?

Who would be taking care of the kids at home? It’s a phenomenal expense.” A life insurance policy will help cover the cost of sitters, drivers, and others. “Also if there are insurance proceeds to pay off mortgages and fund college education, then there is less pressure on the working spouse to earn that higher income,” Cannataro says.

Workers compensation insurance. Being a parent often means having workers, such as cleaners or nannies, in the home. As Sanders learned, workers compensation insurance can help protect against claims domestic employees may bring for accidents on the job. (These accidents, by the way, don’t have to be in your residence—a worker could file a claim if he gets hurt while walking your dog around the neighborhood, for instance.) “It will cover hospitalization or medical care and replaces some of the income the worker may lose for not being able to work,” says Guy Maddalone, a licensed insurance broker and founder of GTM Payroll Services and GTM Employment Benefits.

In fact, families in New York that hire an in-home nanny for 40 or more hours per week are required to carry workers’ compensation.

“The penalties for being out of compliance are steep,” Maddalone warns. “A family can be fined as much as two thousand dollars for every ten days that they did not have workers compensation coverage. On top of that, if their nanny does get hurt on the job, the family may be liable for medical expenses and lost wages.” Worth noting: If you hire a nanny to work 40 hours per week, even for just one week, you need to have workers compensation insurance in place for the entire year.

Disability insurance for domestic employees. This insurance is also mandatory if you have a full-time domestic employee, Maddalone says. It covers employees for things that happen while they’re officially employed that prevent them from working, but that occur outside of work. Some examples: An employee hurts her back while at home, or is pregnant and needs to leave the job to have her baby.

(Household employees are also eligible for New York’s Paid Family Leave program, which provides a portion of their wages for six weeks if they must take a leave for qualified reasons, such as the birth of a child.) Many homeowners insurance policies won’t be able to add on workers compensation or disability insurance, Maddalone notes—you may need to go to another carrier to get these.

treatments? The answer is a resounding “maybe.” If you have enough money put away that a $1,000 or $1,500 bill won’t be damaging to your finances, you probably don’t need it, says Jason Hargraves, managing editor of InsuranceQuotes.com. Another factor to consider is your pet’s age: “If your pet or pets are in rather good health and young, it probably isn’t necessary. If they’re older and have had health issues, it might be worthy of consideration,” Foguth says.

Before signing on the dotted line, “find out what is covered and what the process is for you to be reimbursed,” Hargraves says.

“Some kinds of procedures may not be covered, or it might take months for you to get paid back—make sure you know forward and backward what is insured.”

Trip insurance. You’ve planned a family trip, but what happens if someone gets ill, your luggage gets lost, or you have to come home early due to an unforeseen circumstance? “Travel insurance for a family vacation is a good idea as long as you know exactly what it does and doesn’t cover, and that coverage matches up with your needs,” Foguth says. (A policy may not cover a flare-up of a preexisting condition, for instance.) And before you purchase a policy, “look at what you already have. Sometimes your credit card will cover you for trip cancellation,” Foguth points out.

Theater ticket insurance. It’s no secret that theater tickets for the family are expensive. What you might not know, though, is they’re insurable, generally for about $20 or less. Is it worth it? “First ask yourself if you could resell the tickets if you couldn’t go at the last minute,” Hargraves says. “And make sure what the insurance would pay out and the process of paying it out. But I would certainly go for it if it will give you peace of mind.” *Name has been changed.

Auto insurance for a nanny or other household employee.

“Add your nanny to your insurance policy if she will be regularly using your car,” advises Michael Foguth of Foguth Financial Group. “If she uses it only on rare occasions, you might not need to.” (Ask your insurer.) If your nanny uses her own car on the job, “ask to see a copy of her auto insurance policy, and make sure that it hasn’t lapsed,” Maddalone recommends.

An umbrella policy. This policy protects you when the rain really falls, so to speak. “Umbrella insurance provides for additional coverage beyond that of your homeowners and car insurance,” says Andrew Schrage, co-owner of Money Crashers Personal Finance. If someone is hurt in a car accident you’ve caused and sues you for a million dollars, for instance, your umbrella policy will help cover the amount that’s beyond the limits of your auto insurance. “An umbrella policy also protects you for other types of circumstances that you never had insurance for—for example, if you’re skiing and you accidentally run into another skier who then sues you,” Maddalone says.

Speech-language pathologist

Pet insurance. If you’re like many people, you probably consider your pet part of the family. So does it pay to have health insurance for your furry friend in case he needs surgery or other expensive

Specializing in language disorders, articulation disorders, stuttering, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome and behavioral difficulties.

MrSpeechPathology.com Info@MrSpeechPathology.com 347-399-4836 Bilingual (English/Russian) Conducting evaluations and providing treatment in the New York City area.

Initial free in-home assessment to address child’s needs.

Concierge quality house calls conducted in the privacy of the patient’s home.

BigAppleParent 47

Professional OPEN services Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals LEGAL SERVICES LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW COHEN, P.C. 250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com; ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high quality service at a reasonable cost.

SPECIAL NEEDS LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW COHEN, P.C. 250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com; ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high quality service at a reasonable cost.

LITTLE OPTICS INC. 192-07 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows, Queens 53-15 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside, Queens 718-468-7500 hablamos EspaĂąol 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 they will feel confident.

THERAPY & COUNSELORS MR. SPEECH PATHOLOGY 347-399-4836 mrspeechpathology.com info@mrspeechpathology.com Eugene Chuprin is a bilingual (English-Russian) speech-language pathologist conducting evaluations and providing therapy in the New York City area. His specialty is treating pediatrics with language disorders, articulation disorders, and stuttering.

HOUSES 2018

Baruch Summer Camp at Baruch College

55 Lexington Ave. 646-312-5096 athletics.baruch.cuny.edu/sports/2006/1/9/summercamp.aspx summercamp@baruch.cuny.edu Join us for an open house on Monday, May 21 from 5:30-7pm, and learn about our special discounted rates!

International Academy of New York

4 E. 90th St. 212-641-0260 ianyc.org info@ianyc.org Come join us on May 9 at 6pm for an open house at this Upper East Side bilingual Mandarin and Spanish early childhood and primary school, from nursery through eighth grade.

Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan Oasis in Central Park

795 Columbus Ave. 646-698-1800 oasischildren.com Join us for an open house for Oasis Central Park on May 8 at 6:30pm at The Basis Independent School, 795 Columbus Ave.

Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan Oasis in Downtown-P.S. 110

285 Delancey St. 649-519-5058 oasischildren.com Join us for an open house for Oasis Downtown on May 9 and 24 at 6:30pm at P.S. 110, 285 Delancey St.

St. Luke’s School Pre-K to eighth grades

487 Hudson St. 212-924-5960 stlukeschool.org sharriot@stlukeschool.org Please join us Wednesday, May 9 from 4-5:30pm. Meet faculty, current parents, division heads, and the head of school. Group tour dates: May 1, 2, 8, 9, 11, 16, 17, 29, and 30 at 9:15am. Space is limited; RSVP required.

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

To Advertise Call 212-315-0800 48

May 2018 | nymetroparents.com

185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900 usdan.org Join new families interested in learning more about Usdan. Meet with our admissions counselors and tour the campus. Refreshments, warm drinks, information, and 2018 registration available. Sunday, May 20 from 11am-2pm.

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

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raising kids ad index NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY metropolitan area! acrobatics / gymnastics

Jodi’s Gym ............................................41

birthday / party services

Big Apple Parent Party Planner ............49 Galli Theater .........................................42 Jodi’s Gym ...........................................41 Little Gym ..............................................7 Palisades Climb Adventure...................21

camps 43rd Street Kids ....................................39 Ballet Club (The)...................................41 Baruch College Summer Camp ............42 Breakaway Hoops ................................40 Broadway Dance Center ........................3 Bulldog Ball Club (The).........................42 Camp Clio .............................................37 Chelsea Piers .......................................52 Children’s Museum of The Arts.............40 Ecole Internationale de New York.........42 Gotham Writers ....................................39 Grapplin’ Gorillas ..................................41 Joan’s Summer Arts Camp ...................35 Jodi’s Gym ...........................................41 Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy ...42 KidSail Summer Camp .........................17 Launch Math .........................................35 Little Gym ..............................................7 Lycee Francais de New York ................39 Modeling Camp ....................................41 MWS Student Camps ...........................39 New York Academy of Sciences ...........39 Nory ...................................................... 11 Play On! Studios ...................................37 Pusteblume International School ..........41 Speakitaly NYC ....................................40 Symphony Space .................................41 Teruel Family Immersion ......................41

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts..........2 Whale Camp .........................................37 Windward School..................................45 YMCA of Greater New York ..................37

child care / day care

43rd Street Kids ....................................39 Mommybites .........................................45

classes

43rd Street Kids ....................................39 Ailey Extension (The) ...........................19 Alvin Ailey School (The)........................14 Ballet Club (The)...................................41 Boost! Learning and Behavior Therapy .................................22 Breakaway Hoops ................................40 Broadway Dance Center ........................3 Cathedral School ..................................22 Chelsea Piers .......................................52 Children’s Museum of The Arts.............40 German American School.....................14 Gotham Writers ....................................39 Joan’s Summer Arts Camp ...................35 Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy ....42 KidSail Summer Camp .........................17 Kumon Manhattan ................................13 Launch Math .........................................35 Lycee Francais de New York ................39 New York Academy of Sciences ...........39 Play On! Studios ...................................37 Speakitaly NYC ....................................40 Symphony Space .................................41

dance

Mr. Speech Pathology ..........................47 Pusteblume International School ..........41 YMCA of Greater New York ..................37

education

Cathedral School ..................................22 Ecole Internationale de New York.........42 German American School.....................14 Gotham Writers ....................................39 Kumon Manhattan ................................13 Launch Math .........................................35 Lycee Francais de New York ................39 Mr. Speech Pathology ..........................47 MWS Student Camps ...........................39 National Museum of the American Indian....................................12 New York Academy of Sciences ...........39 Nory ...................................................... 11 Pusteblume International School ..........41 St. Luke’s School ..................................14 Windward School..................................45

family entertainment / events / outings

Children’s Museum of The Arts.............40 Garner Arts Festival ..............................19 Hudson River Park Trust ........................9 Inn at East Hill Farm (The) ...................48 Kids Food Festival .................................5 Land of Make Believe ...........................47 National Museum of the American Indian....................................12 Speakitaly NYC ....................................40 Wild West City ......................................45

Ailey Extension (The) ...........................19 Alvin Ailey School (The)........................14 Ballet Club (The)...................................41 Broadway Dance Center ........................3 Play On! Studios ...................................37

family travel

developmental

fitness

Boost! Learning and Behavior Therapy....22

Inn at East Hill Farm (The) ...................48 Land of Make Believe ...........................47 Teruel Family Immersion ......................41 Wild West City ......................................45 Ailey Extension (The) ...........................19

Alvin Ailey School (The)........................14 Palisades Climb Adventure...................21

health

Allied Foundation ....................................9 Kids Food Festival .................................5

music

Hudson River Park Trust ........................9 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts..........2

performing arts / acting

Galli Theater .........................................42 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts..........2

religious

St. Luke’s School ..................................14

special events

Garner Arts Festival ..............................19 Hudson River Park Trust ........................9 Kids Food Festival .................................5 National Museum of the American Indian....................................12

special needs

Boost! Learning and Behavior Therapy .................................22 Mr. Speech Pathology ..........................47

sports

Baruch College Summer Camp ............42 Breakaway Hoops ................................40 Bulldog Ball Club (The).........................42 Chelsea Piers .......................................52 Grapplin’ Gorillas ..................................41 Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy ....42 Nory ...................................................... 11 Palisades Climb Adventure...................21 YMCA of Greater New York ..................37

theater

Galli Theater .........................................42

tutors

Kumon Manhattan ................................13

BigAppleParent 49

raising kids quotables

What has been your favorite Mother’s Day memory?

“It’s corny, but my first Mother’s Day as a mom is my favorite.

We had just brought Luke home a few weeks before and honestly the day had slipped my mind, but luckily not my husband’s. He surprised me with flowers and breakfast in bed where the three of us stayed all morning. It was the best!”

–Mary Hass, New City

“I told my mom I was pregnant with my first child on Mother’s Day 10 years ago. It was way before those viral videos…but my mom’s reaction was so great, I wish I’d filmed [it]. I could have started the trend much earlier.”

–Grace Skinner, Bayside, Queens

“Because I was adopted, Mother’s Day was always pretty bittersweet for me. I’m looking forward to making new Mother’s Day memories with my son, but not until next year. I’m not due until July!”

–Marisa Beyer, Tribeca

in an instagram Motherhood is a new chapter in life so make sure it’s a fabulous one!

(Posted by @scoutthecity aka Brooklyn mom and fashion blogger, Sai De Silva)

Do you remember that time? It is that odd stage of pregnancy when everyone swears by a certain method or book. I found it really overwhelming then. I stayed away then. Once, we found a stack of pregnancy books and swore we’d read them and eventually, just let them compile with the stack of unreadables. I’m sure they were insightful and beautiful, but my personal comfort in parenting is in just gut-feeling and asking questions with real-life living role-models.

–LaTonya Yvette in a post entitled “On Following The Gut-Feeling,” her blog latonyayvette.com

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“My husband’s mom passed when he was very young, so he never really celebrated. He’s more than making up for it now with me, and we always make sure to commemorate his mom in the process. Every Mother’s Day has been my favorite.”

–Cheryl H., Park Slope, Brooklyn

“My favorite Mother’s Day memory was last year with my girls and my mother and grandmother. It was so special to see all four generations together.”

–Julia Romanov, Piermont

Go For It! “Let me sleep in. To be able to wake up as late as I want would be awesome. Since this rarely happens, I’d appreciate it more than you could ever know. What this means for you, darling husband, is waking up when the kids wake up and making sure they understand that I’m not to be disturbed until I’ve decided to come out of my sleeping chamber.”

–Alice Currah in an article entitled “What Mom Really Wants for Mother’s Day;” read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/ what-mom-wants.

More NYMetroParents.com Highlights: CRAFTS FOR MOM: Make it a flowery Mother’s Day with these crafts (nymetroparents.com/mothers-day-crafts).

SAIL AWAY: Where to go catch a boat in the NYC area (nymetroparents.com/boat-rides).

UNDER THE SEA! Discover a marine life paradise at Atlantis Bahamas (nymetroparents.com/atlantis).

SPRING IN NYC: Check out all the fun NYC has to offer in the spring (nymetroparents.com/nyc-spring).

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