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Brooklyn B rooklyn Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM APRIL 2018

BIRTHDAY

BLOWOUT! Special Tips for Milestone Parties SpecialParent

Autism Awareness Month • Myths to Ignore • Keeping Happy as a Couple—Challenges and All

5 Easy Steps to a Cleaner, Greener Home

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

BrooklynParent

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contents table of

››

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

by Appaman (appaman.com)

april 2018

24 35

special needs 16 Autism Myths You Should Ignore

Build a Budget That Works

Here’s how to make a spending plan that covers the things you need—and helps you save for the things you want.

April Activities

Buy fresh produce at a local farmers’ market, root for the home (minor leage baseball) team, and more!

18 A Child on the Spectrum—and a Happy Marriage 20 Special Needs Directory

40

birthday parties 36 Planning a Blowout Birthday Party 38 Easy as Pie—Er...Cake

What Makes Toddlers Tick

This is why young children do the (sometimes) weird things they do.

raising kids

things to do

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 5 Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling 12 A Passion for the Performing Arts 40 What Makes Toddlers Tick 42 Is Your Child Ready to be a CIT? 44 Camps for Older Kids 48 Camps-at-a-Glance Chart 50 Meet the Doctor 51 Open Houses 52 Professional Services and Party Central 53 Advertisers’ Index 54 Quotables

26 Family Fun in Manhattan 27 Family Activities Calendar 35 April Activities

family life 22 Give Your Home a Health Check 24 Build a Budget That Works

NYMetroParents

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

15 Autism Awareness Month 22 5 Easy Steps to a Cleaner, Greener Home

36 Birthday Blowout!

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

BrooklynParent

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raising kids editor’s note

APRIL 2018 • Vol.14 • No.9

Special Times, Special Kids

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

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

W

hen my daughter Clara turned 3, I planned an at-home party with a clown and cake.

It seemed like the perfect idea—until the clown got lost on the way to our house.

For 45 minutes, 20 bored preschoolers ran wildly around my living room. The clown finally arrived at the same time the pizza did, so I told her she’d have to wait till the kids were done eating. A few minutes later, I spied her through our front window: She’d set up a lawn chair in front of my neighbor’s house and was smoking a cigarette. My neighbor was freaking out at the sudden appearance of a random, smoking clown. It was a party I’ll never forget—and neither will the family next door!

Birthday celebrations can be tons of fun, but only if they’re done right. That’s why I’m loving our birthday party section this month. “Planning a Blowout Birthday Party” by Samantha Neudorf (p. 36) reveals event planners’ secrets for throwing bashes, with advice on finding a venue, vendors, and more. “Easy as Pie—Er…Cake” (p. 38) features charming birthday cake recipes.

In addition to extraordinary occasions, extraordinary kids are on our mind right now: April is Autism Awareness Month. Turn to our Special Parent section on p. 15 to read two thoughtful pieces: “Autism Myths to Ignore,” by Katelin Walling, which debunks harmful stereotypes about those on the autism spectrum, and “A Child on the Spectrum—and a Happy Marriage,” by Madeleine Burry.

April is when Earth Day is observed. On p. 22, Emma Steven explores how to freshen your home by reducing toxins. We’ve also got a fresh look at toddlers’ quirky behaviors on p. 40.

And you won’t want to miss Lambeth Hochwald’s story on p. 42, “Is Your Child Ready to be a CIT?” We explore the traits that make a kid a great counselor-in-training.

Of course, this month also brings us Easter and Passover. Wishing a happy holiday to all of you observing, a fun and healthy spring to everyone, and not a smoking clown in sight!

Deborah Skolnik Editorial Director, NYMetroParents

Investigative Feature: “An Unimaginable Tragedy” by Stacey Pfeffer (nymetroparents.com/infant-mortality)

Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Manager Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager Lisa Herlihy Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Karen Shapiro, Gayle Sherman

PRODUCTION

DIRECTOR|PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz DIRECTOR|DIGITAL CONTENT DEVELOPMENT: Sara Wentworth

MARKETING

MARKETING MANAGER: Jaime Graham PUBLISHING & MARKETING MANAGER: Tom McCann

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

ADMINISTRATION

Profile: “Kids Making a Difference” by Julia Hyman (nymetroparents.com/making-a-difference)

CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Diedra Smith

Family Fun Column: Outings: “See the World in Miniature” at Gulliver’s Gate in Times Square by Katelin Walling (nymetroparents.com/gullivers-gate) and “Where Education and Inspiration Take Flight” at Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey by Caitlin Berens (nymetroparents.com/aviation-hall)

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Rebecca Dixon 917-572-9192

Personal Essay: “Powerful Tunes” by Michaela Searfoorce (nymetroparents.com/powerful-tunes)

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To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents

To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com

We’re proud to announce that our print magazine and website won eight awards for editorial and digital excellence at the annual Parenting Media Association Awards Banquet last month in St. Petersburg, FL.

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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 INTERN: Cintia Feliz, Caitlin Sawicki

DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATORS: Leonard Porter, Christopher Regalado

We Won! 8

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Melissa Wickes

Special Series: Me Time: “Battling Burnout” by Katelin Walling (nymetroparents.com/ battling-burnout) and “Extracurriculars vs. Extra Downtime” by Rosalind Muggeridge (nymetroparents.com/extracurriculars-vs-downtime)

Best E-Newsletter: NYMetroParents Weekend Planner (sign up at nymetroparents.com/register)

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Best Website: NYMetroParents.com

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raising kids new places, new programs

Your Stories, captured by

Who: Parent Craft What’s New: The Park Slope community hub for new and expecting parents.

Founded by Casey Selzer, CNM, RN, LCCE, Parent Craft offers pregnancy, birth, and postpartum classes in an intimate setting—Labor + Birth classes are limited to five couples.

In addition to the birthing class, Parent Craft offers Fourth Trimester, which helps parents prepare for the first few weeks after birth, and Breast-Feeding and Newborn Support. It also offers private sessions covering a range of topics, including preparing for twins and a childbirth refresher.

“I started Parent Craft to empower more families to have a satisfying birth experience and feel confident in the foundation they are building for the first year of parenthood,” Selzer says.

Parent Craft is founding member of the Parent Craft Collective, a group of local businesses that offer a variety of services for new and expecting parents.

Want More Info: 371 8th St., Garden Apartment, Park Slope; parentcraft.org; parentcraftcollective.com

Gwen Schroeder

Support System for New Parents Opens in Park Slope

From left: Gina Eichenb aum-Pikser of Commu nity Midwifery, memb Craft Collective; Casey er of Parent Selzer, CNM, RN, LCC E, founder of Parent Jennifer Mayer of Bab Craft; and y Caravan, member of Parent Craft Collect ive

Who: Elite Minds Montessori School What’s New: The preschool for ages 2½-5, which is scheduled to begin its first school year in September.

Preschoolers can expect to learn the alphabet, numbers, art, and more. The curriculum will also be dual-language, taught in French and English. For the school year, children can be enrolled in two-, three-, or five-day programs.

The Montessori school finished construction of its preschool in January. Before classes begin in the fall, it will host weekly summer programs from July 9-Aug. 17.

Registration for the summer program, with an early-bird discount available until April 30, is now open, and applications for the fall are currently being accepted.

Want More Info: 117 Union St., Carroll Gardens; 347-916-1433; elitemindsmontessori.com

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April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Laurie Torres

Carroll Gardens Montessori School Adds Preschool

Elite Minds Montessori School is environmentally aware, according to Natania Cortijo, educational director.

BrooklynParent

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N U F ER HERE

raising kids in the know

S M T R M A T U S S

5 Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling ››

By Bethany Braun-Silva with Zak Zarbock, M.D.

I

t’s no secret that when traveling you put yourself at risk for getting sick. Your chances of catching a germ or two are pretty high—after all, you’ll be doing everything from mingling with crowds to breathing recycled air on the plane. And when you’re traveling with children, your chances of contracting a bug are even higher. After all, kids love to put their fingers in their mouths, roll on the floor, and do many other not-so-sanitary things. But there are precautions you can take to ensure they (and you!) stay as healthy as possible.

Zak Zarbock, M.D., dad, pediatrician, and founder of Zarbee’s Naturals shares five ways you can keep kids healthy while traveling.

Sanitize once you get past security. Most fliers are required to take off their shoes at airport security. With everyone touching the bottoms of their shoes, germs and bacteria are being transferred to their hands, and then on everything else they touch past that point. Quickly using a hand wipe just past security can go a long way toward keeping germs at a minimum.

Be prepared. The best defense is a good offense. To ensure your family feels their best, take a multivitamin to fill any nutritional gaps in your diet. Also, focus on wholesome immune support ingredients such as vitamin C, zinc, and even elderberry.

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Wipe down contact points. When you get to your seat (both at the gate and on the plane), quickly wipe down the arm rests, handles, and side or tray tables before you settle in. You’ll feel better knowing your kid’s food, drinks, snacks, toys, and activities will be handled with clean hands on fresh surfaces.

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Hydrate. Make sure you and your family drink lots of water.

Planes are known to dehydrate people, and keeping hydrated will make everyone less vulnerable to dry skin, eyes, and mouths. Consider bringing a refillable water bottle or getting bottled water at the airport so you are prepared for the entire flight.

Golf • Performance Golf • Ice Hockey Acceleration Hockey • Ice Skating • Gymnastics Basketball • Elite Soccer • Sports Academy Ninja + Parkour • Urban Adventure for Teens

Wash your hands. No one wants to arrive at their destination only to find an illness coming on, so hand washing is a no brainer, and soap and water are always best to fight germs you might pick up en route to your destination. If soap and water aren’t available, use a baby wipe on the hands, followed by hand sanitizer.

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Zak Zarbock, M.D., was inspired to create Zarbee’s Naturals after looking for alternative wellness products, only to realize there weren’t many wholesome, safe, and chemical-free options on the shelf.

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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raising kids voices

A Passion for the Performing Arts ›› How sharing my interest in the arts helped me become a better parent. By Darren Critz

Courtesy Darren Critz

T

hough nothing has been disastrous (yet), I have managed to mess up many aspects of parenthood. A good example: Easter. Somewhere along the way, I began referring to the Easter Bunny as Peter—he bizarrely morphed with Peter Rabbit for a reason I can’t remember. To avoid a Sunday morning food-coloring feast because of my own aversion to chemicals in food dye, Peter would steal the Easter eggs from our house rather than leave them out to be found and consumed.

Perhaps even more reflective of my failures is the fact that this alternate history about the Easter Bunny came about at all, since my family has been Jewish as far back as anyone can remember.

Spoiler alert: Jews don’t celebrate Easter.

But I have done a lot of things right, too. I’ve demystified swearing and curse words, taught my daughter that avant-garde jazz isn’t always as terrible as people say it is, and, perhaps most importantly, I’ve helped instill in her a love for the performing arts.

From practically the moment she was born, I’ve been bringing my daughter to events, both at Symphony Space and all around the city. I’ve made efforts to make the arts a regular part of her life, and not just a once-a-year visit to the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes (thereby avoiding Christmas-specific events and balancing out the whole Jewish/Easter thing, I suppose).

I’ve taken her to music concerts that spanned genres, from rock to jazz to classical and just about everything in between. We’ve attended a ton of dance performances, seeing everything from tap to ballet to percussive dance. And we’ve been to more theatrical events than I can count.

The results have made a huge impact on her life. We’ve had discussions about what it takes to write songs and compose music, and where the different styles of music originated. I’ve watched her choreograph dances for stuffed animals and our cat after viewing dance performances (great stuff, despite the erratic performances by the lazy stuffed bears and the overly entitled cat, who studied briefly with Balanchine—as if we needed to hear that story again for the billionth time!).

I’ve also witnessed her take the things she’s seen and apply some amazing thoughts and questions to the world outside of the performances: How do bands decide where to put their instruments onstage? How do puppeteers transport their fragile-looking puppets without breaking them? How do performers create funny voices, and is that what the actor sounds like in real life?

And the results have helped her in school as well. Why write yet another story about a turtle, when a critique of the lighting for

Darren Critz and his daughter Regan

that circus show is so much more interesting? Don’t think math is important? How are you going to settle up with the venue for your 80-percent cut of the merchandise profits if you can’t figure out how to calculate percentages? (She’s way into money—the little capitalist!)

All of this is to say the arts have helped shape her as a thinker and communicator in ways I could never have done as successfully without their assistance.

Sure, you could argue there’s another dad out there who lets his kids eat the damn eggs crawling with Yellow Dye No. 6 (aka benzenesulfonic acid, treated with hydrochloric acid and sodium nitrite), and whose preference for baseball means he can testify that sports have had the same effect on his child as the arts has on mine. But I guess that kind of just strengthens what I’m saying, right?

When we find ways to share our passions, hobbies, loves, and interests with our children, we bond in ways we could never imagine, help expand our children’s minds, and become more communicative, responsive parents as a result. Thanks, arts!

Thanks, baseball! And thanks, Easter Bunny, for burying your eggs in Mr. McGregor’s garden and not in mine!

Darren Critz is director of Performing Arts Programs at Symphony Space, a performing arts center on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. He curates Symphony Space’s Just Kidding series, which will have its final performance for this season March 24. The 2018-2019 season will begin in October, with such performances as New Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s The Rainbow Fish in October, Elizabeth Mitchell and You Are My Flower in December, and more family performances most weekends through March 2019.

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April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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SpecialParent

online extras Chase Bailey, a teen with autism, hosts his own YouTube cooking channel and published a cookbook. Read more, and find some of his recipes, at ›› nymetroparents.com/chase-bailey

Your child with autism wants to form a secure bond with you, even if it doesn’t always seem that way. Learn how to understand signals at ›› nymetroparents.com/autism-connection

Advocates are pushing for a stop to the R-word. Find out how, and what you can do to help at ›› nymetroparents.com/r-word

Going out to dinner with a child who has autism can be very stressful. Find tips from a mom who’s been there at ›› nymetroparents.com/autism-dining

autism awareness month

16 Autism Myths to Ignore: There are a lot of stereotypes about autism spectrum disorder that just aren’t true—here are the five biggest misconceptions.

Child on the Spectrum—and a 18 A Happy Marriage Your child’s diagnosis can be challenging to your marriage. Experts share how to keep your bond strong. pecial Needs Directory: Find 20 S resources in Brooklyn for your child with special needs

Despite what many people may think, people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder do like spending time with peers. In fact, interacting with people on the spectrum is the best way to battle these misconceptions.

Autism Myths You Should Ignore

››

There are a lot of stereotypes about autism spectrum disorder that just aren’t true—here are the five biggest misconceptions. By Katelin Walling

W

hile the awareness of autism spectrum disorder has grown due to social media, increased research, Autism Awareness Month, and more, there are still many misconceptions about ASD, from its causes to the characteristics and abilities of those on the spectrum.

As its name denotes, autism is a spectrum, meaning not everyone diagnosed with autism displays the same traits, exhibits the same behaviors, or has the same abilities—just like you or me. So applying blanket statements to those on the spectrum would be like saying girls can’t throw or boys don’t cry.

We spoke to experts about stereotypes of ASD, and uncovered the truth behind five big misconceptions about the disorder and those diagnosed with it.

Myth 1: Vaccines cause autism.

Unfortunately we do still hear the misconception that autism is related to vaccinations, commonly the measles, mumps, rubella vaccination, says Sarah Kuriakose, Ph.D., BCBA-D, clinical assistant professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Langone Health. “Not only was the initial study that showed that a fraudulent study, but follow-up studies have debunked that many times,” she explains.

There are other concerns that autism is caused by “various environmental factors that a pregnant mother may be exposed to and in utero some of those environmental causative factors may have somehow affected the fetus,” says John Pfeifer, senior director of Clinical Services and the Family Center for Autism, part of Life’s WORC, a Long Island nonprofit that supports people with developmental disabilities and autism.

“There’s still ongoing research about the expansion of electromagnetic technology and various environmental chemicals and such that may be at play, but not knowing everything in the environment that may be affecting a fetus, either seen or unseen, makes it hard to decipher that.”

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April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

“What we do know about autism is there seems to be a genetic component, and about ten to twenty percent of cases with ASD are linked to an identified genetic disorder,” says Dr. Kuriakose, who is also senior director of the NYU Langone Autism and Developmental Neuroscience Initiative and the clinical director of the Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical and Research Program at NYU’s Child Study Center. “We anticipate that that number will go up with more genetics research. But even in identical twins, the concordance rate is not one-hundred percent, so we know there is some factor that is not genetic as well.”

Myth 2: People on the spectrum are anti-social and don’t have feelings.

Dr. Kuriakose says parents, teachers, and even doctors will tell her things like, “that child can’t have autism because…he’s affectionate, …she makes eye contact, or …he’s interested in other kids.”

“So what can end up happening is people have this very blackand-white picture that a person with autism is someone who is anti-social and isn’t interested in other people,” she says. “We know that those aren’t necessarily true.” Yet thanks to this persistent myth, a child who does have autism might not be given a diagnosis—his parents may be hanging on to the fact that their child is affectionate though he is struggling in other ways.

“It is often thought that people with autism don’t have feelings, which is a very sad misconception and very far from the truth,” adds Janet Koch, CEO of Life’s WORC. “They are capable of having loving relationships with family members and friends.”

Myth 3: People with autism exhibit challenging and/or maladaptive behaviors.

“It’s not fair to say that challenging behaviors are inherent in the diagnosis,” Pfeifer says. “They are often a byproduct of ineffective treatment

of some of the things that are inherent in the diagnosis, which are communication and socialization difficulties.” These behaviors could include flapping hands, rocking, or other self-stimulatory behaviors.

“We still unfortunately have the misconception from previous media portrayals that kids with autism are nonverbal, are going to sit in the corner, and just rock or flap their hands,” Dr. Kuriakose says.

As society becomes more educated about autism, people are learning about adapting communication efforts. “I have young children, and they’re learning in integrated classrooms about what these behaviors may mean. It could actually help a person [on the spectrum] to not escalate to such a significant behavior because they’ll be able to communicate more easily with people who have been taught how to communicate with them,” Koch says.

Myth 4: Those on the spectrum are savants and/or are fixated on one topic.

The media commonly portrays those with autism as being savants or having restricted interest in a singular subject area: Sam Gardner in Netflix’s Atypical and Shaun Murphy in ABC’s The Good Doctor are two recent portrayals. “Certainly we have kids and adults with autism who have an amazing depth of knowledge in a particular area, incredible memory, incredible pattern recognition skills, things like that that are going to set them up for a particular career,” Dr. Kuriakose says, but not all people on the spectrum show these characteristics.

In fact, the most recent criteria for an ASD diagnosis from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fall into two categories: social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors (RRB).

There are four traits that fall under the RRB category—repetitive speech or behavior/mannerisms, restricted interest, sensory challenges, and difficulty with transitions or insistence on sameness—and a person needs to only exhibit two of the RRB traits (and meet criteria from

the social communication category) to receive a diagnosis of autism, according to Dr. Kuriakose. “So you could have a kid who has some sensory challenges and insistence on sameness without any restricted interest at all and you could still have the diagnosis,” she says.

Myth 5: People with ASD can’t go to college, have jobs, or get married.

Because some people with autism may struggle with social situations, have communication challenges, and have difficulty with flexibility, there’s the misconception that they will not be able to attend higher education, have a job, or get married and have kids. “There are lots of examples of folks with autism who do successfully do those things, and the big thing that’s important is it’s all about the supports the environment can provide,” Dr. Kuriakose says.

When working with a patient who is looking at colleges or employment opportunities, Dr. Kuriakose looks for a setting that is supportive of that patient’s strengths and challenges. In fact, “a lot of individuals with autism are actually really great, dedicated, passionate employees, but it has to be a setting that can understand that they might process information and interact in ways that are slightly different from typical.”

In terms of getting married, Dr. Kuriakose says there are quite a few instances where she’s diagnosed a child with autism, and a few months later their parent will observe that they’re seeing some of the same characteristics in themselves or another family member.

“And these are all people who had families,” she says.

So how can we continue to combat these and other myths about people on the spectrum? “Just like with any other group, you shed your misconceptions when you have more close relationships with people in that group,” Dr. Kuriakose says. “And so I really would encourage people to engage with lots of individuals with autism.”

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A Child on the Spectrum—and a Happy Marriage ››

Your child’s diagnosis can be challenging to your relationship. Experts share how to keep your bond strong. By Madeleine Burry

H

ere’s a fundamental truth: Being married with children is wonderful and rewarding—but also really, really hard. And for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder, raising a child is a whole other level of difficulty. More and more moms and dads face this situation; 1 in 68 children have ASD, according to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s a diagnosis that’s life changing for the entire family.

“The diagnosis of a child with autism and the breakdown in communication create a major strain on a marriage,” says Alisha Griffith, Aud.D., CCC-SLP, autism parenting coach, author of Au-mazing Gift: A Journey to Autism Acceptance, and mom to an 11-year-old son with autism.

That sounds ominous. Marriage is hard enough without additional stress or strain. And it’s true: The time-consuming daily grind of parenting a child on the spectrum, along with the financial and emotional burden involved, can take over moms’ and dads’ lives, leaving little time to nurture your partnership. Neglecting a marriage does not tend to lead to good things. In fact, for years, despite no actual scientific source, people thought the divorce rates were significantly higher—80 percent—for parents of children on the spectrum. A 2010 study from the Kennedy Krieger Institute debunked the anecdotal rumor. The reality: The divorce rate for parents is the same, regardless of whether they have a child with ASD or not.

That points to something reassuring: Maintaining a healthy, happy marriage as a parent of a child on the spectrum may be challenging, but it’s definitely doable. We spoke to experts—couples therapists, coaches, and psychiatrists who are deeply familiar with the impact of this diagnosis on relationships—to find out practical tips to help your marriage stay strong.

18

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Pick a Path Together

Often, parents react to a diagnosis in very different ways: One parent may seek to become an expert, researching the condition constantly, while the other is subsumed by emotions, feeling sorrow, grief, and frustration. “There’s a misalignment in this response that creates distance,” says Tracy Ross, LCSW, a couples and family therapist who specializes in treating parents of children on the spectrum.

How can couples feel united in this fragmented moment? If it’s a matter of disagreeing over next steps, pick an expert and trust her to steer your path forward, recommends Gail Saltz, M.D., psychiatrist and author of The Power of Different: The Link Between Disorder and Genius. “To some degree, it’s useful to pick your maven and go with that. Pick someone you really both can feel confident in and then let them direct some of that decision-making,” she says.

This is also a moment to sharpen your communication skills, discussing everything from feelings to treatment. That can be harder than it sounds (there’s a reason we praise preschoolers and kindergarteners when they’re good listeners; listening isn’t easy!). Schedule time for judgment-free conversations, recommends Dr. Griffith. “Respect the role of speaker and listener. Take turns to truly listen to each other. Create rules for a safe conversation,” she says, so it doesn’t break down in screams or stony silence.

Make Sure Work is Shared

Typically, one parent becomes the primary caretaker for a child on the spectrum, Dr. Saltz says. (Yes, it’s usually the mom.) And that’s fine, so long as both parents have responsibilities and acknowledge each other’s contributions. “Caretaking doesn’t have to be fifty-fifty,” Dr. Saltz says,

but without participation from both moms and dads, resentment festers.

Ross adds that it’s helpful to recognize your spouse’s talents. Consider how your partner can help you become a better parent, and where your different skills can be most helpful to your child. “You can’t both be working on the same thing—there’s just too much to do. Divide and conquer is really better,” Ross says.

Bring Back Date Night (Or Day)

Your child can easily become the focus of your every conversation, activity, and thought. And, doing otherwise may induce feelings of guilt (I shouldn’t go to the movies when I have that towering pile of paperwork to tackle). But your marriage requires attention, too. “Make sure you do carve out time to do pleasurable things together and do not spend every waking moment on your child,” Dr. Saltz says.

“You have to keep your relationship interesting and spicy. You were married way before you were a parent, so you still have to nurture your marriage,” Dr. Griffith says. To that end, put date night on the calendar, just like any other important appointment. If you don’t feel comfortable leaving your child with a caretaker, or can’t afford one, Dr. Griffith suggests shifting date night to date day—after you drop your child off at school, skip out of your responsibilities for a few hours in favor of a long lunch, coffee at your local café, a walk in the park, or a trip to the museum or movies together.

Develop a Support System

It can be deeply lonely to be a parent of a child with ASD. “Parents who don’t have kids with special needs don’t know how hard it is.

[They] don’t know what you go through,” says Jennifer Kaufman, an occupational therapist who works in NYC public schools and mom to a 9-year-old son who is on the spectrum.

“When you have a typical child, you meet other families with

kids and your world expands, but when you have a kid on the spectrum your world can constrict, and that’s harder,” Ross says.

Simple social gatherings—like a trip to the park or a birthday party—are difficult for kids who are on the spectrum. That leads many parents to just opt out. “Parents with kids on the spectrum get embarrassed, feel judged, feel upset, so they tend to isolate, which can cause stress,” Ross says.

Instead of RSVPing no until the invites end, Ross recommends educating the people around you: Have a conversation with friends about what to expect from your child, and how to talk to their own child about being around kids on the spectrum.

As well as maintaining pre-existing relationships, look to make new connections. “Find other parents who may be having a similar struggle, so you have a community to be able to talk to about these [struggles],” Dr. Saltz says. Ross recommends seeking out parent groups.

Consider Volunteering

It can feel relieving and world opening to raise money or volunteer for autism-related causes, Dr. Saltz says. “Doing volunteer work together can be helpful and bonding,” she says.

Immersed in therapy, testing, and schedules, it’s easy to neglect caring for your marriage—but it’s not a small thing to overlook. As Ross points out, “It’s not a luxury to work on your relationship. It’s really important for the adults and the whole family.” Having a strong partnership reduces the likelihood of burnout, and allows you to do more on behalf of your children. So go ahead: Enjoy some time with your spouse, and make your partnership a top priority.

Madeleine Burry is a Brooklyn-based freelance writer and editor, covering everything from parenting to open data to workplace productivity. She’s held staff positions at Parents.com, Scholastic, and About.com. You can follow her on Twitter @lovelanewest.

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family life home

Some plants, such as Spider Plants, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, Peace Lilies, Aloe Vera, and Garden Mums are natural air purifiers, according to NASA. So this Earth Day, why not take your kids to pick out a little greenery for your home?

Give Your Home a Health Check ›› Five simple steps to reducing environmental toxins around your house

D

o you want to detox your home but don’t know where to start? Got a couple of green products in your kitchen but want to know what else you should you be doing? Consider this: The average family is exposed to thousands of environmental toxins and the majority of this occurs in the home. The good news? There are simple things you can do to make your living space greener and healthier for your family.

“The first point I would say is don’t get overwhelmed,” reassures Nneka Leibe, director of healthy living science at the Environmental Working Group. “There are simple changes that can make an impactful difference.”

Here are five expert-approved priority tasks you can do in your home to go a little greener:

Improve your air quality.

“One thing people don’t realize is that the indoor air is a poorer quality than the outdoors. Even in cities,” says Maia James, green home consultant and founder of gimmethegoodstuff.org. In fact, indoor air is as much as two to five times more polluted than air outside.

“A lot of people are thinking about the pollution they are exposed to outdoors,” Leibe says. “When we started to dig into the products we have indoors, we realized that a lot of the things we have in our home and furniture either release chemicals or are made with chemicals that we suggest to avoid.”

22

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

By Emma Steven

Don’t panic: You can improve your air quality by replacing or eliminating poly vinyl chloride (especially the flexible kind found in shower curtains, toys, raincoats, and kids’ mattress covers), flame-retardants, conventional cleaning products and air fresheners, dry cleaning that uses perchloroethylene (PERC), particle board and MDF, furniture with waterproof or stain-guard finishes, chemical pesticides, synthetic carpeting, lead paint, asbestos, and radon gas. Visit nymetroparents.com/green-home for more details about these common problem areas.

If you want to go one step further, James recommends investing in an air filter to actively clean the air. For a low-fi option, you can add wool rugs and plants—both have been shown in studies to be natural Volatile Organic Compound (VOCs include formaldehyde and benzene) absorbers. And don’t forget to open your windows every day!

Reduce household dust.

Those dust bunnies may look harmless, but nasties like lead, phthalates (endocrine disrupting chemicals or EDCs), BPA, flame-retardants, perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs), and chemicals from cleaning products lurk in them. Gary Ginsberg, Ph.D., an assistant professor and toxicologist at Yale School of Public Health, has studied household dust extensively. He says dust is a key source of children’s exposure to contaminants at home, with levels of phthalates, lead, and flame-retardants in dust relating closely to

levels in blood and urine. Children and babies ingest a lot because they spend more time on the floor and put things in their mouths.

They are also much smaller and still developing, so toxins have a much bigger potential impact on their health.

Vacuum regularly using a HEPA filter vacuum, wet-mop floors, and wipe down surfaces. Fit filters to heating and air-conditioning units, take off your shoes when you get home, and use a doormat to reduce the amount of outdoor dust and soil coming into your home.

Buy a water filter.

“Another small change that is really impactful is purchasing a water filter,” Leibe says. The quality of tap water can vary widely, so it’s important to check yours via your water utility’s website or a resource like the EWG Tap Water Database (ewg.org/tapwater). Just make sure to regularly clean the water container and change the filter.

Switch to cleaner personal care items.

Many beauty products contain small amounts of chemicals, including EDCs and lead. James recommends starting with the products that are used the most often and on the biggest areas such as moisturizers, sunscreen, and shampoos. Many people are surprised to hear the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not require safety testing for personal care and cosmetic products, so it’s up to the consumer to check labels. The EWG Skin Deep Cosmetics Database (ewg.org/skindeep) is a great resource for researching ingredients as are apps such as Think Dirty, which let you check on the go.

Ditch plastic and non-stick cookware.

Replace plastic bottles with stainless steel or glass. The dangers of BPA are well known, but the plastics used to replace it (like bisphenol S aka BPS) are also thought to contain EDCs, according

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to the EWG and James. Never heat food in the microwave in plastic as this can lead to chemicals such as phthalates leaching into it, and replace non-stick cookware as these are made with PFCs.

Don’t obsess.

All of the experts interviewed were keen to emphasize that we should not be lying awake at night (on our non-organic mattresses) panicking. “I know it’s hard to not freak out about this stuff as you begin to educate yourself,” James says. “But it’s helpful to remember that it’s all about cumulative risk. No one item in the home is going to make or break your family’s health.”

“It’s not a life or death situation,” Dr. Ginsberg agrees. “There are a lot of low-level risks out there. We are doing much better today than we were when I was a kid. We don’t want to overwhelm people because then [they] will be paralyzed.”

“All of these changes combine to reduce our body burden of chemical exposure,” Leibe adds. “They’re small changes but very, very important to reducing the number of chemicals we’re exposed to that lead to adverse health impacts.”

The onus is now on us, as consumers, to do the legwork to find out what’s in the things we use. “The biggest piece of advice is that because of lapses in regulation, parents have to become amateur investigators,” Leibe concludes. “They can’t rely on claims and advertising hype.”

By increasing your knowledge and making smart choices, it is possible to make your home a greener and healthier place. So you can sleep better in more ways than one!

Emma Steven is a British freelance writer living in Manhattan with her husband, two small kids, and two cats. Previously the Manhattan calendar editor for NYMetroparents.com, she writes about parenting and New York City. When asked about what she most misses about the UK she’s most likely to say British humor and least likely to say British weather.

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family life finances

Build A Budget That Works

››

Stop living from paycheck to paycheck! Here’s how to make a spending plan that covers the things you need—and helps you save for the things you want. By Katelin Walling

D

o you know how much, on average, you’ll spend each year on raising a child? $12,980, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture if your child was born in 2015. That’s $233,610 over the course of your child’s underage years, ages newborn to 17.

For good measure, add in another $51,000 for projected inflation.

And that’s not even taking into consideration how much you’ll need to save if you want to buy a house for your family, pay for a chunk of your children’s college educations, or contribute to your retirement. Oh, and speaking of college: Most parents in their 20s and 30s are paying off their student loans, too.

Is thinking about all of these numbers making your head spin?

Before you panic, consider doing this: making a budget. It will help you “create realistic goals by understanding your spending and savings behaviors and make sure you don’t spend more than you earn,” says Keri Danielski, consumer finance expert and spokeswoman for Intuit’s money management tools Mint and Turbo.

If you’re hoping the magic fix is cutting your daily latte habit or bringing a lunch from home instead of buying a $15 salad, you’re in for a rude awakening. While those small changes will certainly help you save money (as long as you actually save it), they’re only the start. What you really need to do is step back and take in the big picture of how much you earn—and spend.

“I know a lot of people struggle with this, but it’s worth the struggle. I tell my clients all the time: This is the foundation to financial planning,” says Kristen Euretig, CFP, founder of 24

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Brooklyn Plans, a financial planning service geared toward women in their 20s to early 40s. “This is what’s coming in and going out every month, and if you can get this piece right, you can do everything else.”

Before sitting down to tackle your finances, set yourself up for success by finding a system that both you and your partner feel comfortable using. “Whether it’s tracking everything manually in a spreadsheet or using a personal finance tracker like Mint to help track in real-time, you need something that works for you,” Danielski says.

“This will make budgeting easier and more enjoyable for you.”

Once you have a system figured out, creating your budget can be accomplished in four steps: Know how much you’re bringing in. Before you and your partner can even think about determining how much money to allocate to various expenses, you need to know your total net annual income.

That’s how much you’re both taking home after taxes.

“When we go to create a budget, we automatically go to the expenses side,” Euretig says. “But that side is meaningless if you don’t have the right income number because that’s how you actually figure out if you can afford your monthly expenses. So that’s the first step.”

The easiest way to figure out your total net annual income, if you’re salaried employees, is to multiply your last paycheck amount by however many pay periods are in a year. This will be a little trickier for freelancers, Euretig notes.

Determine your current spending habits. “People tend to underestimate what they spend and overestimate what they save,” says Daniel D’Ordine, CFP, founder of DDO Advisory Services LLC, which offers financial planning, investment management, and insurance solutions for families and business owners in New York City, the Hudson Valley, and New England. “You have to get a very good sense of what your steady spending habits are.”

He suggests reviewing 12 months of statements from credit cards and bank accounts to see what you actually spent in a year and on what. Categorize what you spent into fixed expenses (rent, transportation or commute, groceries, utilities, child care, etc.) and discretionary expenses (takeout, entertainment, clothes, gym memberships, vacations, birthday parties, etc.).

Then use the total amount you spent in the past year as a baseline to determine an average monthly expenditure. “It’s as simple as knowing that we spend around $8,500 a month all-in,” D’Ordine says. This will help you figure out how much of your total net monthly income you have left over to save for various goals.

Figure out your goals. First and foremost, D’Ordine suggests bulking up your emergency fund if you don’t have one. He advises keeping approximately three months of expenses in your savings account in case something happens, like you lose your job or your partner needs to take an extended leave.

Then sit down together and write down your goals, “and be very realistic,” Danielski says. Do some research on how much these goals will cost and how long it will take to reach them—a down payment on a house, retirement, paying off debt (find tips at nymetroparents. com/decrease-debt). “Once you identify how much you need to start saving, you can figure out your budget,” Danielski adds.

Periodically check in on your budget to make sure you’re meeting your goals. “I think that a monthly check-in provides accountability,” D’Ordine says. “So that when unexpected opportunities arise to spend money that maybe aren’t in the budget, something will go off in the individual’s brain that will say ‘this is going to come back to haunt me when we check in at the end of the month.’”

“The more you’re aware of your spending and savings habits, the better you’ll be able to meet your budget goals,” adds Danielski, who suggests couples plan “money dates” out of the house to make these check-ins something to look forward to.

“Weekly or bi-weekly meetings are helpful if you’re trying to cut back on spending habits,” she says. “Monthly and quarterly meetings may be a better fit if you’re checking in on the overall health of your budget and goals.”

These periodic check-ins are also a good time to take a peek at your emergency fund. “If it’s being depleted, that means you’re spending more than your average monthly amount or you’re spending more than is coming in,” D’Ordine says. You’ll want to review your discretionary expenses to see what you can trim (find tips at nymetroparents.com/spending-cuts). But, D’Ordine adds, “if that emergency buffer is creeping up, then that extra money is what you can throw into the college fund or save for a down payment.”

While all of this might seem like a massive undertaking, setting up a budget and attacking problem areas now will set you up for success down the road. “Once you’re cash-flow positive and you have more savings and you’re spending less than you earn, you can pay off debt, you can save for a home, you can save for other goals,” Euretig says.

“So it’s really crucial and it’s worth the time to get right because it sets you up for literally anything else you want to do financially.”

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A BUILDER: Has a good memory, notices emerging patterns, and can apply basic principles to new materials.

SAugust 17, 2018 July 9, 2018 – T S OL

A VISIONARY: Has a creative mind, is a thinker and a planner.

s t e a m sScience c i e n c e tTechnology e c h n o l o g y Engineering e n g i n e e r i n g Arts a r t s m at h e m at i c s Mathematics

THE BIBLE SPEAKS CHURCH, Home of THE BIBLE SPEAKS ACADEMY 5205 Foster Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11203 Phone: 718 629-4559 Website: www.tbsbrooklyn.org E-mail: info@tbsbrooklyn.org BrooklynParent 25

things to do

outbound

Family Fun a Ride Away

Celeste Roldan

Courtesy Long Island Aquarium

In Suffolk County…

Caumsett State Historic Park

Named after its Matinecock Indian name “Caumsett,” meaning “place by a sharp rock,” this estate contains almost 2,000 acres of land extending into the Long Island Sound. Families can jog, hike, or bike along the miles of paths surrounding the rocky shoreline and salt marsh. Bird watching, fishing, horseback riding, and environmental education are just some of the various activities Caumsett offers.

Visit It: 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington; 631-423-1770; caumsettfoundation.org

Long Island Aquarium

Visit one of the largest all-living coral reef displays in this hemisphere, a 120,000-gallon shark tank, several touch tanks, and more than 100 exhibits at the Long Island Aquarium. Upcoming events this month include behind the scenes tours, otter feeding, and an African penguin talk. On April 15, kids can also join their favorite princesses for a tea party.

Visit It: 431 E. Main St., Riverhead; 631-208-9200; longislandaquarium.com

Bellevale Farms Creamery Bellevale Farms Creamery is a small, family-run creamery located on a 450-acre dairy farm in Warwick. Families can choose from more than 50 flavors of homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, and more, all while enjoying the beautiful view over the rolling hills of Bellevale Farm. The creamery opens at 12pm daily, April-October.

Visit It: 1390 Route 17A, Warwick; 845-988-1818; bellvalefarms.com

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April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Connecticut Science Center

Adin Fuchs

o and bey nd!

Connecticut Science Center More than 165 hands-on exhibits, a 3-D digital theater, four education labs, and daily programs and events allow kids to build, design, learn, and more at the Connecticut Science Center. Permanent exhibits include Science Alley, Butterfly Encounter, Exploring Space, and River of Life. The center is perfect for children, teens, and adults who want to learn and explore all kinds of science from physics to forensics, geology, and astronomy.

Visit It: 250 Columbus Blvd., Hartford, CT; 860-724-3623; ctsciencecenter.org

Ideas When You Need Them:

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Turn the page for details on Dallas Children’s Theater’s ‘How I Became A Pirate’ (No. 8 on our list).

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nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar EDITOR: KAREN LO bkcal@davlermedia.com

CALENDAR 28

Editor’s Hot Tickets

29

We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

30

Crafty Kids, Special Needs, Animal Lovers

31

The Great Outdoors, Fun Fairs & Festivals, Browse & Buy

32

Show Time!, Smarty Pants

33

Mini Musicians

34

Movers & Shakers

5

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

Keeper for a Day: Otters and Friends

WHEN: Sunday, April 1, 2-3:30pm WHERE: New York Aquarium, Surf Avenue and West 8th Street, Coney Island AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Children will experience first-hand what it’s like to be an animal keeper. This fast-paced program is jammed full of special experiences that demonstrate just what it’s like to care for the animals that call the New York Aquarium home.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This informative day “at sea” gives your future marine biologist the chance to get up close and personal with some of the aquarium’s friendliest residents.

WANT TO GO? $55. 718-265-3474. nyaquarium.com.

Green Meadows Farm Easter Egg Hunt

2

WHEN: Through April 2: Thursday-Monday, 10am-4pm WHERE: Aviator Sports and Events Center, 3159 Flatbush Ave., Marine Park AGES: All WHAT: Admission includes the egg hunt, photo with Whiskers the Easter Bunny, a hayride, tiny tractors corn box, giant hay wagon slide, and more.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Families can also visit the farm and enjoy activities such as pony rides and a petting zoo.

WANT TO GO? $9. 718-224-5863. aviatorsports.com.

3

Kids Week Brooklyn: Fort Greene History and Colonial Games FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 3, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Fort Greene Park Visitor Center, Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park, Fort Greene AGES: All WHAT: Fort Greene holds an important place in the history of the colonies and the American Revolution. Learn about the traditions, dress, and

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April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

games of the colonial people and Native Americans who lived in this area of Brooklyn centuries ago.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Give your city kid an experience that will make them feel deeply connected to the past, no matter how young they are.

WANT TO GO? 718-722-3218. nycgovparks.org.

4

Opening Day Parade and Fair FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 7, 10am-3pm WHERE: Prospect Park Long Meadow, Grand Army Plaza Entrance, Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: More than 1,000 youth league players will parade down 7th Avenue, led by local marching bands and civic leaders, to the Long Meadow Ball Fields, where ceremonial first pitches will be thrown. Afterward, enjoy an afternoon of music, activities, and food.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Enjoy an 1860s style baseball game, walking tours of the park, and a community grill-out all in the same day!

WANT TO GO? 718-965-8951. prospectpark.org.

Jazz for Kids: Oran Etkin’s Timbalooloo Duo Workshop

5

WHEN: Saturday, April 7, 11am WHERE: National Sawdust, 80 N. 6th St., Williamsburg AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Using games, stories, songs, and movements, children learn to express themselves by making instruments come alive and speak the language of music. Your little ones will get an immersive musical history lesson, featuring artists from Mozart to jazz legend Herbie Hancock.

WHY WE LOVE IT: As they learn about music from all over the world, this expert-led workshop will even help young minds develop stronger speech, math, and motor skills.

WANT TO GO? $20; $5 children. 646-779-8455. nationalsawdust.org.

6

Brooklyn Folk Festival

WHEN: April 6-8, Friday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: St. Ann’s Church, 157 Montague St., Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: This three-day festival will feature more than 30 bands, vocal and instrumental workshops, a family-friendly square dance, jam sessions, film screenings, the famous Banjo Toss contest, and more.

WHY WE LOVE IT: This Brooklyn-born festival makes the city feel like a cozy small town, in a good way!

WANT TO GO? $25. 718-395-3214. brooklynfolkfest.com.

‘Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live: King for a Day!’

WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 2pm and 6:30pm WHERE: Kings Theatre, 1027 Flatbush Ave., Flatbush AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The characters from PBS’s wildly popular children’s series come alive in this lively theater show, in which Daniel and his friends introduce new songs to sing, new lessons to learn, and even a few surprise guests.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s an event filled with tigertastic fun, teaching the valuable lessons of kindness, helping others, and being a friend.

WANT TO GO? $30 and up. 845-469-2287. kingstheatre.com.

7

8

Dallas Children’s Theater’s ‘How I Became A Pirate’

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 2pm WHERE: On Stage at Kingsborough, 2001 Oriental Blvd., Manhattan Beach AGES: All WHAT: Based on the popular book, this swashbuckling musical adventure follows Jeremy Jacobs, a young boy whose day at the beach with his family takes a turn for the dramatic when he’s enlisted to help a band of pirates bury their valuable treasure. Young mateys will sing and dance along, and get the chance to meet the cast after the show.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids will love the energetic tale of buccaneers on the beach, and parents will love the catchy lesson in dental health, “Green Teeth.”

WANT TO GO? $12. 718-368-5596. onstageatkingsborough.org.

‘The Breadwinner’

WHEN: Sunday, April 22, 2pm WHERE: BAM Rose Cinemas, 30 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene AGES: 9 and older WHAT: After the wrongful arrest of her father, 11-year-old Parvana cuts off her hair and dresses like a boy in order to support her family. Parvana embarks on an epic quest to find her father, drawing strength from the fantastical stories she invents along the way. Based on the best-selling middle-grade novel by Deborah Ellis.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Young and old viewers alike will find hope and resonance in this beautiful story about preserving childhood during a dangerous time in the world.

WANT TO GO? $10; $7 for children 12 and younger. 718-636-4100. bam.org.

9

Secrets of the Zoo: Zoodunnit!

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 12-4pm WHERE: Prospect Park Zoo, 450 Flatbush Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: As participants collect and solve clues, they will explore bird nests and eggs, observe animal behavior, and meet a top-secret animal guest up close.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Animal lovers and mystery fiends alike will go wild for this zoo-themed game of Clue.

WANT TO GO? $30. 718-399-7339. prospectparkzoo.com.

10

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.

LoopDLoopKids Free Music Workshop FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 7, 10-11:30am WHERE: Brooklyn Arts Exchange, 421 5th Ave., Park Slope AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This workshop is for children and parents to bond through the fundamentals of music by singing, dramatic play, dancing, and instruments.

WANT TO GO? 718-832-0018. loopdloopkids.com.

Macy’s Flower Show 2018 FREE

WHEN: Through April 8: Monday-Saturday, 10am-10pm; Sunday, 10am-9pm WHERE: Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W. 34th St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Stop by Macy’s annual welcome to spring, when the store is transformed into floral scenes with blooms, flowers, and plants from around the world. This year’s theme is Once Upon a Springtime.

WANT TO GO? 212-695-4400. macys.com.

Discovery Hike: Forensic Forest FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Canarsie Park, Seaview Avenue and East 102nd Street, Canarsie AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Search for signs of spring along this round-trip hike and discover clues that nature has left behind.

WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org.

Family Art Workshop Hosted by Art Out of Anything FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: The Window Studio, 356 Marcus Garvey Blvd., Bedford-Stuyvesant AGES: 3-8 WHAT: This family art workshop teaches kids how to create to unique artwork from traditional and found materials. Each class focuses on a specific artistic element or technique, and all materials are supplied.

WANT TO GO? 646-643-9536. window-studio.com.

Farmhouse Family Day FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 11am-3pm WHERE: The Wyckoff House Museum, 5816 Clarendon Road, Canarsie AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Bring the family to explore New York City’s oldest house. Seasonal activities include scavenger hunts, artifact investigation, gardening, self-guided exploration, and hands-on activities.

WANT TO GO? 718-629-5400. wyckoffmuseum.org. ›› BrooklynParent 29

SPECIAL NEEDS Family Fun: Broadway Jazz Adaptive Dance

WHEN: Saturday, April 7, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Mark Morris Dance Center, 3 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene AGES: All WHAT: Explore classic songs and dance moves from Broadway. In honor of Autism Awareness Month, this class is specifically staffed and designed for participants with physical and developmental limitations.

WANT TO GO? $25 for a family of 2-3; $30 for a family of 4-6. 718624-8400. markmorrisdancegroup.org.

Sensory Room Family Hours

CRAFTY KIDS Platform Puppetry

WHEN: March 30-April 8, Tuesday-Sunday, 1:30-2:15 pm WHERE: New York Transit Museum, Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street, Downtown Brooklyn AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Create people-size “commuter” puppets and put on a parade.

WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children ages 2-17. 718-694-1600. nytransitmuseum.org.

Teen Night: Currents and Bolts FREE

WHEN: Friday, April 20, 5-7:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, Prospect Heights AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Explores the exhibit David Bowie is. Meet other teens, see and create art, participate in discussions and workshops, win raffles, and more.

WANT TO GO? 718-638-5000. brooklynmuseum.org.

Art Adventures!

WHEN: April 18-June 20, Wednesdays, 11:15am-12:15pm WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Each week children and caregivers explore art, experiment with materials, go on scavenger hunt challenges, and create masterworks.

WANT TO GO? $33. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.

Creativity Lab

WHEN: Through Aug. 31: Sundays, 4-5:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: Get messy, experiment with materials, and learn artistic techniques.

WANT TO GO? $16; free for children younger than 19. 718-638-5000. brooklynmuseum.org.

Stay Small Art Club

WHEN: Year-round: Thursdays, 9:30am WHERE: Edamama Cute Cuts & More, 568 Union Ave., Unit B, Williamsburg AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Little artists will explore a wide variety of art materials while developing excellent social and cognitive skills.

WANT TO GO? $15. 718-388-3663. edamama.com.

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April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Through Dec. 31, Thursday and Saturday-Sunday, 2-4:45pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Children of all abilities can explore their senses. The Sensory Room is a welcoming environment for children on the autism spectrum.

WANT TO GO? $9; $1 for children 1 and younger. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org.

ANIMAL LOVERS Breakfast with the Animals

WHEN: Sunday, April 1, 9-10:30am WHERE: New York Aquarium, Surf Avenue and West 8th Street, Coney Island AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy a light morning meal of “people food” along with child-focused activities, then participate in an animal encounter.

WANT TO GO? $45; $40 members. 718-265-3474. nyaquarium.com.

Anthropomorphic Beetle Diorama Class

WHEN: Sunday, April 22, 5pm WHERE: Quimby’s Bookstore, 536 Metropolitan Ave., Williamsburg AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Students will learn to make and take home their own shadowbox dioramas featuring carefully positioned beetles.

WANT TO GO? $65. 718-384-1215. quimbys.com.

Classic Mew-vie Night

WHEN: Friday, April 20 7:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Cat Café, 149 Atlantic Ave., Cobble Hill AGES: All WHAT: Watch a classic movie along with the cats of the Brooklyn Cat Café. Ticket price includes a snack and drink. Children younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

WANT TO GO? $20. 347-946-2286. catcafebk.com.

Touch Tank

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Saturday-Sunday, 12:30-1pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Meet and touchlive sea creatures, like starfish and sea urchins.

WANT TO GO? $11. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org.

Live Animal Adventure

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Saturday-Sunday, 4:15pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Learn about and touch an animal from the museum’s living collection.

WANT TO GO? $11. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Kids Week Brooklyn: Sea Shore Exploration FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, April 3, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U, Marine Park AGES: All WHAT: Urban Park Rangers will guide you on a tour of Brooklyn’s largest park, which features 530 acres of grassland and salt marsh, and several species of birds and native flora and fauna.

WANT TO GO? 718-421-2021. nycgovparks.org.

Kids Week Brooklyn: Campfire Activities FREE

WHEN: Thursday, April 5, 1-2:30pm WHERE: Fort Greene Park Visitor Center, Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park, Fort Greene AGES: All WHAT: Join the park rangers in Fort Greene Park for campfire activities.

Learn about campfire safety, and sing-along to some fun campfire songs.

WANT TO GO? 718-722-3218. nycgovparks.org.

Spring Break

WHEN: April 3-6, Tuesday-Friday, 12-5pm WHERE: Prospect Park, 95 Prospect Park W., Prospect Lefferts Garden AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the return of spring at Prospect Park with nature tours, animal encounters, and the first carousel rides of the year.

WANT TO GO? $2 carousel rides. 718 965-8951. prospectpark.org.

Girl Scout Earth Day Celebration

WHEN: Sunday, April 22, 11am-4pm WHERE: Prospect Park Zoo, 450 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Calling all Girl Scouts! Celebrate Earth Day at the zoo to enjoy environmental games, participate in a Citizen Science Project, meet animals, complete a scavenger hunt, and receive an event patch.

WANT TO GO? $10. 718-399-7339. prospectparkzoo.com.

Wild Waterfront

WHEN: April 18-June 20, Wednesdays, 10-11am WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Nature-loving students will explore Brooklyn’s own waterfront and learn about the local plant and animal life. This spring, students will also explore Spark’s special waterfront oyster estuary with the Billion Oyster Project.

WANT TO GO? $33. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.

The Means of a Ready Escape

WHEN: Through July 13: Wednesday-Sunday, 12-5pm WHERE: Brooklyn Historical Society, 128 Pierrepont St., Brooklyn Heights AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This exhibition highlights the 150 years of social history in Brooklyn’s backyard. Featuring more than 100 artifacts and documents, it tells the story of the 585 acres of forest, field, and swamp that Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux transformed into an urban oasis, and how the park has sustained generations of Brooklynites throughout the borough’s many eras of change.

WANT TO GO? $10; free for children younger than 12. 718-222-4111. brooklynhistory.org.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS 11th Annual National Grid Earth Day Celebration FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 21, 2-6pm WHERE: Weeksville Heritage Center, 158 Buffalo Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 3 and older WHAT: This event is designed to educate families on how they can play a role in caring for the Earth and creating a more sustainable future.

WANT TO GO? 718-951-4600. brooklyncenter.org.

Tuffy Tiger’s Family Festival

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 11am-3pm WHERE: Old Stone House, JJ Byrne Park, 4th Street and 5th Avenue, Park Slope AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: A community event filled with music, arts and crafts, games, and Tuffy Tiger. Admission is free.

WANT TO GO? $2-$5 activities. 718-768-3703. tuffytiger.org.

Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival

WHEN: April 28-29, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 900 Washington Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: The festival will feature all-day performances and kid-centric activities such as family tea ceremonies, taiko drumming lessons, an origami workshop, a tea-making workshop, and photo ops.

WANT TO GO? $25; $20 students ages 12-17; free for children younger than 12. 718-623-7200. bbg.org.

BROWSE & BUY

Junior League of Brooklyn Annual Belle & Beau of The Ball FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 9am-3pm WHERE: P.S. 161, The Crown School, 330 Crown St., Crown Heights AGES: 13-17 WHAT: An annual dress and suit drive, providing completely free formalwear for teens. The program includes mini-makeovers for girls, haircuts for boys, complimentary photos, and scholarship giveaways. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 917-710-8118. brooklynjuniorleague.org.

Spring Flea Market FREE

WHEN: Sunday, April 29, 9am WHERE: Bay Ridge Jewish Center, 4th Avenue and 81st Street, Bay Ridge AGES: All WHAT: The flea market returns with more than 50 vendors.

WANT TO GO? 718-836-3103. brjc.org.

Down to Earth McGolrick Park Farmers Market FREE

WHEN: Through April 29: Sundays, 10am-4pm WHERE: Park Church Co-op, 129 Russell St., Greenpoint AGES: All WHAT: Shop for foods from regional farmers and local food makers.

WANT TO GO? 914-923-4837. downtoearthmarkets.com.

Farmer’s Market FREE

WHEN: April 2-Dec. 31, Saturdays, 8am-4pm WHERE: Grand Army Plaza, Prospect Park West and Grand Army Plaza, Park Slope AGES: All WHAT: View an array of farm fresh products and to participate in the programming and cooking demonstrations that take place every Saturday.

WANT TO GO? 718-965-8945. prospectpark.org. ›› BrooklynParent 31

SMARTY PANTS Campfire Conversations

WHEN: Saturday, April 7, 7-8pm WHERE: Lefferts Historic House, Flatbush Avenue and Empire Boulevard, Flatbush AGES: All WHAT: A series of themed community conversations set around a campfire.

WANT TO GO? $3 suggested donation. 718-789-2822. nycgovparks.org.

Songs For Extraordinary People

SHOW TIME! ‘The Prince and the Magic Flute’

WHEN: Through April 1: Saturday-Sunday, 12:30pm and 2:30pm WHERE: Puppetworks, 338 6th Ave., Park Slope AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Enjoy this classic fairly tale as performed at the Smithsonian Institution and including glimpses of Mozart’s original score.

WANT TO GO? $10; $9 for children younger than 12. 718-965-3391. puppetworks.org.

‘The Little Black Fish’

WHEN: Friday, April 6, 6pm WHERE: Triskelion Arts, 106 Calyer St., Greenpoint AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The story of a young fish in a stream who yearns to see the world.

WANT TO GO? $21. 718-389-3473. triskelionarts.org.

WHEN: Saturday, April 7, 4pm WHERE: Barbès, 376 9th St., Park Slope AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Author and composer Michael Hearst, along with his five-piece band, presents this A/V presentation of some fascinating individuals.

WANT TO GO? $10 suggested donation. 347-422-0248. barbesbrooklyn.com.

French for Little Ones

WHEN: April 20-June 22, Fridays, 10:45-11:45am WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: This French language discovery class is specially designed for babies and toddlers. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $33. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.

Spanish at SPARK with Espáñate!

WHEN: April 20-June 22, Fridays, 9:30-10:30am WHERE: Spark by Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 1 John St., Dumbo AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children will build Spanish speaking skills as well as fine motor, social, and artistic skills through games and music. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $33. 718-852-2470. brooklynkids.org/spark.

Train Operators Workshop

WHEN: Sunday, April 8, 2pm WHERE: BAM Rose Cinemas, 30 Lafayette Ave., Fort Greene AGES: 5 and older WHAT: When a secret key unlocks a long-forgotten garden, more than one gloomy life is utterly transformed.

WANT TO GO? $10; $7 for children 12 and younger. 718-636-4100. bam.org.

WHEN: Through June 30: Saturday-Sunday, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: New York Transit Museum, Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street, Downtown Brooklyn AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Drop by the computer lab to take control of a NYC subway car.

WANT TO GO? $10; $5 seniors and children ages 2-17. 718-694-1792. nytransitmuseum.org.

‘Grow!’ Spellbound Theatre

Brooklyn Block Lab and Studio

‘The Secret Garden’

WHEN: Sunday, April 22, 10am and 11:15am WHERE: The Old Stone House, 336 3rd St., Park Slope AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Follow the life cycle of an apple seed through four seasons.

WANT TO GO? $15. 718-768-3195. theoldstonehouse.org.

Step Afrika!

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 3pm and 8pm WHERE: Brooklyn Center at Kumble Theater, 1 University Plaza, Fort Greene AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The dancers of Step Afrika! use their bodies as instruments, integrating stepping with African traditional dance.

WANT TO GO? $35. 646-765-4773. brooklyncenter.org.

‘The Jungle Book’

WHEN: April 14-Aug. 19, Saturday-Sunday, 12:30pm and 2:30pm WHERE: Puppetworks, 338 6th Ave., Park Slope AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Enjoy an artful retelling of The Jungle Book, Rudyard Kipling’s Fables of India, as adapted for marionettes by Nicolas Coppola and Adam Kilgour.

WANT TO GO? $11; $10 children. 718-965-3391. puppetworks.org.

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April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Through June 30: Thursday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Visitors develop engineering skills as they engage in open play.

WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-224-5863. brooklynkids.org.

Holding History

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: Sundays, 11am WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Children will learn about the history of artifacts from the museum’s collection through this tactical investigation.

WANT TO GO? $11. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.

Friday/Saturday Drop-In

WHEN: Through Dec. 31: 6:30-9:30pm WHERE: Brooklyn Game Lab, 310 7th Ave., Park Slope AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Drop in for Dungeons and Dragons and other role-playing games.

WANT TO GO? $48. 718-788-1122. brooklyngamelab.com.

We treat:

MINI

• Food Allergies • Asthma • Eczema • Hay Fever • Sinus Issues • Recurrent Infections • Hives • Insect Allergies & much more!

MUSICIANS

Board certified pediatric & adult allergist.

RRPH Presents: The Music of Disco for Kids

WHEN: Sunday, April 1, 11:30am WHERE: Brooklyn Bowl, 61 Wythe Ave., Williamsburg AGES: All WHAT: Groove along with your kids to the disco classics.

WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 1. 718-963-3369.

Stomp, Clap, and Sing with Bilingual Birdies FREE

WHEN: Friday, April 6, 11am-12pm WHERE: Brooklyn Public Library, McKinley Park branch, 6802 Fort Hamilton Parkway, Dyker Heights AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: The Bilingual Birdies celebrates language and culture in a funfilled live music and dance. Learn new words in Mandarin.

WANT TO GO? 718-748-8001. bklynlibrary.org.

Same Day and Evening Appointments Available.

Most Insurances Accepted.

10 Plaza Street East Suite 1E Brooklyn, NY 11238 & 311 Saint Nicholas Ave., Ridgewood, NY 11385

(347) 564-3211

www.brooklynallergyDR.com

Ma*Jid Album Release Party

WHEN: Saturday, April 14, 7pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bowl, 80 N. 6th St., Williamsburg AGES: All WHAT: NYC musician Ma*Jid will premiere his second, family-friendly album.

WANT TO GO? $25; $20 in advance. 646-779-8455. nationalsawdust.org.

Family Fun with Suzi Shelton

WHEN: Sunday, April 29, 11am WHERE: Jalopy, 315 Columbia St., Carroll Gardens AGES: All WHAT: Hear songs from Suzi Shelton’s new album.

WANT TO GO? $10; $5 children; $25 per family. 718-395-3214. jalopy.biz.

KNOCK!

WHEN: April 28-May 6, Tuesday-Sunday, 10:30am and 3:30pm WHERE: BAM Fisher, 321 Ashland Place, Fort Greene AGES: 3-5 WHAT: An innovative team of performers from South Africa turns pieces of forest wood into musical instruments and storytelling tools.

WANT TO GO? $15. 718-636-4100. bam.org.

Serving the Brooklyn Heights and Park Slope communities of Brooklyn, NY, Brooklyn Family Orthodontics is proud to provide quality care and individual attention to our patients in a modern, state-of-the-art facility

Orthodontic Specialist for Children and Adults Brooklyn Heights: 142 Joralmon Street | Suite 6B Park Slope: 73 8th Avenue (at Union Street) T: 718-625-2299 E: info@bkfamilyortho.com W: bkfamilyortho.com

Sing-Along with Ari the Singalong Guy

WHEN: Through June 29: Fridays, 11am WHERE: The Knitting Factory, 361 Metropolitan Ave., Williamsburg AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: An interactive sing-along with a rock-show feel, filled with classic songs that everyone knows and a few easy-to-learn originals sprinkled in.

WANT TO GO? $10 per family. 347-529-6696. aribrand.com.

Shabbat Songs and Stories FREE

WHEN: Through June 29: Fridays, 9:30-10:15am WHERE: Kings Bay Y, 309 Grand Ave., Suite 1, Clinton Hill AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Celebrate Shabbat as a community. This event is open to all.

WANT TO GO? 718-872-9445. fortgreeneclintonhilly.org.

The Buttons Weekend Sing-Along

WHEN: Year-round: Saturdays, 11-11:45am WHERE: Edamama Cute Cuts & More, 568 Union Ave., Unit B, Williamsburg AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Features 45 minutes of original tunes, classic kids’ songs, and oldies.

WANT TO GO? $15; $5 each additional child. 718-388-3663. edamama.com. ››

BUSHWICK

MONTESSORI

At the Julie Dent Learning Center

At Bushwick Montessori our objective is to nurture the development of the whole child.

Our thoughtful application of the Montessori method enables our children to become life long lovers of learning.

We offer full-day care, have financial aid packages and accept HRA and ACS vouchers.

www.bushwickmontessori.org

718.369.0145 | 803 Knickerbocker Avenue

BrooklynParent 33

MOVERS & SHAKERS Escape Room

WHEN: Monday, April 2, 12-6pm WHERE: Jewish Children’s Museum, 792 Eastern Parkway, Crown Heights AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Time is ticking and the pressure is on! Beat the clock and race to discover the clues and solve the puzzles needed to escape from Egypt.

WANT TO GO? $20. 718-467-0600. jcm.museum.

Ice-Skating Season

WHEN: Through April 2: Monday-Thursday, 9am-5:15pm; Friday, 9am-9pm; Saturday, 11:30am-9pm; Sunday, 11:30am-5:15pm WHERE: Le Frak Center at Lakeside, Prospect Park, Parkside/Ocean avenues entrance or Lincoln Road/Ocean Avenue entrance, Prospect Lefferts Gardens AGES: All WHAT: In addition to public ice-skating, the LeFrak Center features figure skating, ice hockey, and curling, indoor and outdoor dining at Bluestone Café, and an array of special events and public programming.

WANT TO GO? $6 weekdays; $9 weekends and holidays; $6 skate rentals. 718-462-0010. lakesidebrooklyn.com.

New York Islanders vs. Philadelphia Flyers

WHEN: Tuesday, April 3, 7pm WHERE: Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Ave., Prospect Heights AGES: All WHAT: The New York Islanders play a game against the Philadelphia Flyers.

WANT TO GO? $17 and up. 718-942-9587. barclayscenter.com.

Tot Shabbat FREE

WHEN: Friday, April 27, 5:30pm WHERE: Bay Ridge Jewish Center, 405 81st St., Bay Ridge AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Experience Shabbat with songs, stories, instruments, and dancing. Tot Shabbat concludes with challah and grape juice.

WANT TO GO? 718-836-3103. brjc.org.

Eat, Learn, Pray FREE

WHEN: Saturday, April 28, 9am WHERE: Bay Ridge Jewish Center, 405 81st St., Bay Ridge AGES: All WHAT: Come to partake in breakfast and engaging discussions led by the Rabbi, followed by an abbreviated Shabbat morning service.

WANT TO GO? 718-836-3103. brjc.org.

Little Makers Space

WHEN: Through April 30: Thursday-Sunday, 11am WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Little Makers Studio is filled with all new activities for young artists and their caregivers to explore together. Activity stations invite tots to build and refine their motor skills; engage in sensory exploration of materials; and learn how to share with others.

WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.

Mini Monkeys Learn and Play Group FREE

WHEN: Through June 25: Wednesdays, 9-11:30am WHERE: Monkey Do! Yoga, 279 3rd Ave., Gowanus AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Storybooks, integrated movement and mindfulness, language development, art, and music are all part of the weekly enrichment activities offered in Mini Monkeys Learn and Play groups, as well as access to an enclosed backyard space. Students may join open play sessions for free all semester long.

WANT TO GO? 347-987-3797. monkeydoyoga.com.

Block Party Exhibit

WHEN: Through June 30: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights AGES: All WHAT: Experience a real Brooklyn block party in the middle of winter.

Come hang out on the stoops at this cultural celebration featuring street games like hopscotch, jump rope, and skelly; sidewalk chalk drawing; mixing tunes at a DJ booth; “grilling” some summer treats; and getting to know your neighbors. This exhibit features photographs by local artist Anderson Zaca, who has been documenting block parties in New York since 2005.

WANT TO GO? $11; free for children younger than 1; pay as you wish on Thursdays, 2-6pm. 718-735-4400. brooklynkids.org.

New York Road Runners Open Run FREE

WHEN: Through Dec. 18: Tuesdays, 7pm WHERE: Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 6, Atlantic Avenue and Furman Street, Brooklyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: Open Run is a community-based initiative that empowers local volunteers to bring free weekly runs to local neighborhood parks. All runs are directed by volunteers, and courses are usually between 2½-3 miles. Open to all ages, experience levels, walkers, strollers, and dogs.

WANT TO GO? 718-222-9939. brooklynbridgepark.org.

The Little People Party Open Play

WHEN: Through June 1: Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm WHERE: The Backyard, 196 N. 14th St., Williamsburg AGES: 6 months to 3 years WHAT: The Little People Party is a children’s entertainment company with a current pop up tot party held at an indoor soccer field. The giant, enclosed, Astroturf-covered field is decked out with games and toys for kids and the bar sells refreshments for the adults.

WANT TO GO? $20. 646-707-4372. facebook.com/thelittlepeopleparty.

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Coming up next month: MAY 12: Touch-a-Truck Festival at P.S. 295, South Slope MAY 13: Breakfast with the Animals: Coral Reefs at New York Aquarium, Coney Island MAY 20: Party on Wheels at the New York Transit Museum, Downtown Brooklyn

April things to do

where-to guide

✿

✿

Compiled by Samantha Neudorf

Activities

Courtesy Brooklyn Cyclones

They say April showers bring May flowers, but why should a little rain stop you from getting outside? With the onset of warmer weather (and quite frankly more daylight now that we have sprung forward for Daylight Saving Time), there is no excuse to hibernate at home anymore. Get out to a farmers’ market to gather local, in-season produce or head to a fundraising walk to support a cause. Minor league baseball season is also around the corner, which is always a great reason to root for your home team.

And finally, books are always in season, so there’s no reason why you shouldn’t pay a visit your local bookstore to sharpen your child’s mind and imagination.

FARMERS’ MARKETS McCarren Park Greenmarket

✿✿

North 12th Street and Union Avenue, Greenpoint 212-341-3717; grownyc.org/greenmarket/brooklyn/greenpoint-sa Hours: Year-round, Saturdays, 8am-3pm (weather permitting) With seasonal produce, honey, preserves, baked goods, eggs, fresh dairy products, and an assortment of meat, this long-running market also offers music by local artists, market recipes, cooking demonstrations by local chefs and the market manager, and family-friendly activities.

Find more>> farmers’ markets in Brooklyn at nymetroparents.com/farmers-markets.

MCU Park offers a unique view of the Parachute Jump and the Atlantic Ocean.

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL Brooklyn Cyclones

Class A Short-Season New York-Penn League (New York Mets) MCU Park, 1904 Surf Ave., Coney Island brooklyncyclones.com Season begins June 16; tickets: $10-$17 in advance Through Field of Dreams, youth baseball, softball, and Little League teams can stand, in uniform, with the Cyclones while the national anthem plays at the start of the game (you must purchase a minimum of 20 tickets to participate). Fireworks are free after every Friday and Saturday home game. On Sundays, kids can run the bases after the game and play catch on the field before the game.

FUNDRAISING WALKS

Find more>> local minor league teams at nymetroparents.com/ballparks.

Kids For a Better Future

Find more>> children’s bookstores in Brooklyn at nymetroparents.com/bookstores.

Find more>> fundraising walks in Brooklyn at nymetroparents.com/walks.

✿

✿

BookCourt

✿

163 Court St., Cobble Hill 718-875-3677; bookcourt.com This independent shop has been family-run for more than 30 years, and has an impressive inventory of books for all ages. Children’s bestsellers are always 30 percent off, so feel free to pick up a few.

Prospect Park, 95 Prospect Park W., Prospect Lefferts Garden kidsforabetterfuture.org This charity sponsors an annual walkathon to better the lives of children around the world through supporting a new charity each year. Past charities include Seeds of Peace, cancer research, and various disaster relief funds. This year, Kids for a Better Future is joining the Generosity Series 5K Run/Walk to support the Arab American Family Support Center April 29.

BOOKSTORES

Peter Oberc Photography

Morgan I. celebrates her bat mitzvah, planned by The Event of a Lifetime Inc., with her friends

Planning a Blowout Birthday Party

››

Whether you’re celebrating a major milestone or simply want to have an extra-special party, these tips from event planners can help you create a totally terrific bash. By Samantha Neudorf

W

hen I turned 9, my mom planned a birthday party I will never forget: She rented a limousine for my friends and me to ride in for an afternoon tea party. We dressed up in gowns and heels, got our hair and nails done, and then enjoyed finger sandwiches, cookies, and lemonade as we were chauffeured around town. To this day it has been a favorite birthday party of mine, and a memory I continue to treasure.

Birthdays are occasions that kids will remember for the rest of their lives, and birthday parties are a way to hold those memories in place. Sometimes, you want to make those celebrations extra-big, either because you’re marking a major milestone—such as a bar or bat mitzvah, quinceañera, or sweet 16—or simply for the fun of it.

Planning a blowout birthday party can feel daunting, though. Where do you even begin? We asked event planners (though you may think they’re only for weddings, you can find those who plan children’s birthday parties, too) what to keep in mind.

Pick the venue and DJ (if you’re having one) first.

The venue is key when piecing together the rest of the details for your child’s party. This locks you into a specific neighborhood or town, and helps narrow down the options for additional elements, if desired, such as caterers and entertainment.

If you’re planning a bar or bat mitzvah and live in a town with a large Jewish population, it’s crucial to book your venue early. “If you wait too long, you may end up with a venue that’s too big or not big enough, or too expensive and not your style because you were stuck with what was available,” says Melisa Imberman, president of The Event of a Lifetime Inc., an event planning company based in West36

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

chester County. Imberman even suggests booking the venue and DJ before your child gets a bar or bat mitzvah date from the temple.

For other types of birthday parties, families should start booking a venue at least a month beforehand. Marla Mase, founder of PARTYpoopers, a kids’ party planning company serving the greater New York area, says families call her anywhere from a month to six months in advance for all types of parties, including first birthdays.

Securing a venue also allows you (or your event planner, if you’re using one) to see the space and pick out the décor and design for the party. “You can’t really plan décor and design if you don’t know where [the venue] is because you need to know what kind of space you’re working with,” Mase says.

Set a budget.

There is no particular amount of money families should set aside when planning a birthday party; it really depends on what they’re willing to spend. One helpful hint is to decide what aspects of the party to prioritize. For example, a family planning a daughter’s sweet 16 may invest more in having a DJ and photo booth, and may opt for cheaper food because it’s not the focal point of the party. “Your number of guests is the biggest contributor to your budget,” Imberman says. “There are some variables that are not going to change with your number of guests, but there are some, like food and beverage, that will.”

A benefit of hiring an event planner is they develop a rapport with vendors and venues and can offer discounts. Event planners have a list of clients they continually work with, which saves families the time and effort of doing their own research. “I represent a

potential party every weekend, so although most people want to make customers happy, [vendors] want to make me happy because I bring them repeated business,” Imberman says.

Adjust the party to your child’s personality.

Some kids may be outgoing and want the spotlight on them, and some may just want to lie low. Never force your child into a situation that would make him unhappy. The party and vibe should reflect your child’s personality and feel like it’s very much his own party. Mase plans parties for children of all ages and remembers planning a bat mitzvah for a shy girl who did not want a DJ or dancing, so she instead planned a murder mystery theme. “It was a huge success without any dancing,” Mase says. “You have to know your kids—don’t create an event for them that’s not for them.”

rowdy. “Sometimes kids are hanging out in the bathrooms trying to get alcohol,” Imberman says. “Security is very important.” It’s also advisable to have adult chaperones across the venue to monitor the kids.

Let the professionals do their jobs.

If you’re working with an event planner, resist the urge to become very hands-on and micromanage the details. It’s much wiser to trust that your event planner knows what she’s doing. “You’re hiring someone so that you can enjoy and be at your own party,” Mase says. “I have seen times where people undermined their own events because they were not having fun.” There’s no use in worrying about potential problems—that’s what the event planner was hired to solve.

BIRTHDAY PARTY CHECKLIST

Discuss details.

Event planners consider everything when putting together a party, from when food will be served to when dancing should start, and serve as liaisons to all moving parts. It’s a smart strategy for families to follow as well. For example, if there will be a candle lighting ceremony or speech, make sure that the first course of a meal will not be served at the same time, because no one will be able to hear what’s being said. If there will be a first dance, it shouldn’t start until after food service, so guests can finish their meals without the food getting cold. “Even if you have the best caterer and the best DJ, they likely will not talk to each other before the day, Imberman says: “I do a very detailed timeline and communicate it with everyone prior rather than running into an issue before the party.”

Whether you hire an event planner or not, here is a helpful checklist of things to keep in mind when putting together your child’s birthday party.

• • • • • • • • • •

Consider hiring security.

It’s strongly recommended for sweet 16s, when teenagers may get

Pick a date and time Secure a venue Choose your DJ or entertainment Send out invitations Select a theme and décor Arrange food and catering (don’t forget the cake and candles!)

Designate a photographer Plan your outfit Make party favors Mail thank-you cards

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Easy as Pie— Er...Cake ››

Three birthday cakes you can bake with your kids

I

f you’re throwing a birthday party for your child, impress everyone by baking your own homemade birthday cake—and get your children involved in the process! These three recipes are easy enough for kids to help make and will get them excited about baking and decorating. Besides, who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too?

Teddy Bear Cake

This would be the perfect cake to make for a younger brother or sister’s birthday. The cute smile is made out of delicious chocolate candy. You will have three cupcakes left over when you have made your bear, so you can check how good your cake is before the party!

Serves 10 You will need 1 quantity Large Vanilla or Chocolate Cake 1 quantity Small Vanilla or Chocolate Cake 1 quantity Chocolate Fudge Frosting Assorted chocolate drops and buttons

2 8-inch round cake pans Non-stick baking parchment 12-hole muffin pan, lined with 6 paper cupcake cases and 1 mini paper cupcake case Large plate or board with room for the cake, ears, and ribbon

Directions 1. P reheat the oven. Ask an adult to help you turn the oven on to 350°F, so it will be hot by the time you are ready to bake.

2. Put one of the round cake pans on the baking parchment and draw around it twice to make two circles. Cut them out. Scoop a little soft butter onto a paper towel and rub this all over the inside of the pans. Put the parchment circles into the bases of the pans and leave to one side.

3. Make the large quantity of cake batter and spoon it evenly into the two pans. Ask an adult to help you put it onto the middle shelf of the oven for about 30 minutes. Check that the cakes are done by pushing a metal skewer into the middle of one. If it comes out clean, the cake is cooked. Leave them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack. Turn them the right way up and leave to cool completely.

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April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

4. W hile the big cake is cooking, make the small quantity of cake batter. Spoon the batter into the mini cupcake case first and then evenly into the other cupcake cases. Ask an adult to help you put these onto the middle shelf of the oven and set a timer for 15 minutes. When the timer goes off, take out the mini cake and set the timer for another 10 minutes to finish cooking the other cupcakes. Leave the cakes in the tin to cool for 10 minutes and then move them to the wire rack to cool completely.

5. Make the Chocolate Fudge Frosting while the cakes are cooling.

6. Use a long, serrated knife to level the tops of the big cakes, if they are not flat. Place one cake on the serving plate and spread 3-4 tablespoons of chocolate frosting over the top. Put the second cake on top. Use three-quarters of the remaining chocolate frosting to cover the top and sides of the whole cake, spreading it evenly with a palette knife.

7. Cover the tops of two cupcakes with frosting. These are the teddy’s ears but they will need to be raised, so peel the paper case off another cupcake and cut it in half horizontally. Put one half under each ear and put the ears in their place by the head.

The ears should now be roughly the same height as the cake.

8. Peel the paper case off the mini cupcake and completely cover it with frosting. Put it in the middle of the cake to make the teddy’s nose. Arrange the chocolate drops on the face for the eyes, mouth, and ears. Make a bow out of ribbon and place at the teddy’s neck.

Lemon Cake with Candies

You can go wild with the decorations for this one, using lots of different varieties and colors of candies. The key is to add all the sweet treats to the cake no more than 1-2 hours before serving, otherwise they might soften and bleed into the frosting.

Serves 12

You will need Assorted candies 1 quantity Large Lemon Cake 3 sticks unsalted butter, softened 2 8-inch round cake pans 4 cups confectioners’ (icing) sugar Non-stick baking parchment 4 tablespoons lemon curd Directions 1. Ask an adult to help you turn the oven on to 350°F, so it will be hot by the time you are ready to bake. Put one of the round cake pans on the baking parchment and draw around it twice to make two circles. Cut them out. Scoop a little soft butter onto a paper towel and rub this all over the inside of the pans. Put the parchment circles into the bases of the pans and leave to one side.

2. Make the cake batter, and spoon it evenly into the two pans.

Ask an adult to help you put them onto the middle shelf of the oven for about 30 minutes. Leave the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack. Turn them the right way up and leave to cool.

3. When the cakes are cold, slice each one in half horizontally to give four even layers.

4. Make the frosting. Put the soft butter into a bowl and place a strainer (sieve) over the bowl. Add a few tablespoons of confectioners’ (icing) sugar to the strainer and sift over the butter. Now beat the mixture together with a wooden spoon, then add a little more sugar and mix again. Keep going until all the sugar has been mixed in and the frosting is smooth and pale.

Add the lemon curd and mix again until smooth.

5. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with 2 big tablespoons of frosting.

6. Top with another cake layer and 2 more tablespoons of frosting.

Repeat until you have four layers of cake and three layers of frosting.

7. Cover the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, spreading it evenly with a palette knife.

8. Decorate the cake with a whole range of your favorite candies!

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Our name “ume ume” reflects the focus of our program and the importance of bringing children together (ume = you + me) as we create and learn about our world through music and the arts.

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Design, photography, and illustration by CICO Books 2017. Reprinted from My First Cookie & Cake Decorating Book with permission of CICO Books.

Find the cake and frosting recipes you’ll need for these cakes, as well as a recipe for a Chocolate Fudge Birthday Cake at ›› nymetroparents.com/kids-cakes

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BrooklynParent 39

raising kids baby

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What Makes Toddlers Tick Why toddlers do the weird things they do.

M

y toddler will not keep his clothes on. Seconds upon entering our apartment he strips down to his diaper and pretty much stays like that until it’s time to leave again.

He also answers almost every question with a “no,” and will only eat out of a green bowl. While we entertain this weirdness because he is only 2, it turns out it might not be so weird after all. I’m sure most parents of toddlers have at least a few things they consider out-of-the-ordinary behavior, and like me, find themselves constantly chasing after a naked dictator while dodging attacks from his green bowl.

Toddlers are new to this earth and are figuring things out at their own speed and in their own weird way. Read on for some of the strangest things they do, and why they do them.

No Means No

Chances are if you ask a toddler a question, you will be met with…

“No!” “Do you want to go outside?” “No.” “Do you want to eat dinner?” “No.” “How about you put some pants on.” “No!” That last one wasn’t really a question, but you get my drift.

So what’s with the negative attitude, tots? Turns out, it’s not 40

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

››

By Bethany Braun-Silva

really so negative. Toddlers who are learning to express themselves use “no” as way to assert their independence and gain just a bit of control in a world where they are constantly told what to do and when to do it.

“Toddlers are gaining independence from their parents. Up until about eighteen months or so, kids really feel as though they are one with their mom (or primary caregiver). Their little brains don’t have the maturity to understand seeing the perspective of another person,” says Amy Webb, creator of the blog thoughtfulparent.com, who has a doctorate in Human Development and Family Sciences and is mom of two. “So as they are gaining this independence, they want to ‘do it myself’ for just about everything, and this could include dressing or just about anything else.”

While hearing “no” from your toddler all day long can be increasingly frustrating, just know it means your little one is growing up and growing into herself.

Here’s what you can do if your child’s refusal is becoming a bit too much: • Offer choices. Instead of telling your child to put pants

on, ask what color pants he would like to wear today. This leaves little room for a negative answer.

• Make it a learning game. Help your child count how many peas are left on her plate as she eats them one at a time. Make it fun!

• Watch your language. Toddlers are sponges and will pick up your behavior. Instead of telling your spouse, “No, I’m not watching another episode of The Bachelor tonight,” try saying, “How about we watch a movie we will all enjoy.”

• Don’t back down. Toddlers can be defiant, but they need their parents to set boundaries. If what your child is saying no to is a non-negotiable, stand your ground. It will get better.

Again, Again!

I have seen Moana at least 50 times. While it’s a great movie, I’m ready to move on. In fact, since starting this article we have moved on…I am currently on my 20th viewing of Trolls. Ughhhhh.

When my toddler finds a movie he likes, he will watch it every day, sometimes twice a day. Melissa Robles from Kew Gardens, Queens, has the same issue with her 2½-year-old. “Gracie is obsessed with reading Green Eggs and Ham. She would have me read it to her ten times in a day, and on more than one occasion, I have,” she says.

While this repetition is frustrating for parents, it’s extremely comforting for little ones. “Toddlers really thrive on repetition and it makes them feel safe and it’s also exciting and fun to them,” says Tanya Altmann, M.D., pediatrician, mother, and author of Baby & Toddler Basics: Expert Answers to Parents’ Top 150 Questions. “They like patterns, they like counting the steps walking up to preschool the same way every day, and will get mad if you skip a step.”

Toddlers rely on repetitive behavior to know what to expect.

Their communications skills are so minimal at this age that knowing what to expect is, in fact, key to their health and happiness.

Repetition is actually a great tool for parents, too because if you stick to the same routine, your toddler will know what’s expected of him and will likely do it. Dr. Altmann suggests using this behavior to your advantage. “The good thing about repetition is that you can change any toddler behavior that you want to change. Whether it’s getting them to sleep through the night or eat green vegetables, as long as you’re consistent for a week and offer positive reinforcements and ignore undesired behavior, you can change their behavior,” she says.

Nudity, Nose Picking, and Head Banging

No, this is not the name of the latest Tarantino film, but rather three distinct (and strange) behaviors you might witness from your little one. As I mentioned earlier, the main problem we deal with in our family is getting my toddler to keep his clothes on. While

we manage to keep our little nudist contained at home, sometimes he starts stripping in public.

Toddlers have no concept of what’s socially acceptable, so they don’t really see this as a problem. Same goes for nose picking.

If your toddler has an itch or a booger, she will stick her finger up her nose because she doesn’t realize it’s a gross thing to do.

Teaching your toddler social cues and what’s expected of him in the house and outside of the house will go a long way to making his behavior more acceptable.

As for head banging, that’s a bit different. Some toddlers will bang their heads against their crib at night or before falling asleep for a nap. While this behavior can seem worrisome or outright scary, it’s actually completely normal and a way for your toddler to self-soothe. Often head banging happens at night as way for her to get herself to sleep. She is soothed by the rhythm she is creating and will most likely outgrow it in no time.

When to Worry

Toddlers definitely display some strange behaviors from time to time, but there are certain behaviors that could raise a red flag.

For instance if your child is using the above-mentioned head banging as a way of cutting off interaction from you and others, it might be time to reach out to your pediatrician. Also, “if your child consistently is testing limits to the point where it’s driving you crazy and it’s disrupting everyone in the house and causing a lot of extra stress, that could be a sign that there is something else going on with your toddler, and you may want to talk to your pediatrician,” Dr. Altmann says.

Rafi Bilek, LCSW, director of Baltimore Therapy Center, suggests parents watch out for certain behaviors, as they may be indicators of something more serious going on, such as autism or a behavioral disorder: • Regression in language or motor skills (e.g., child was using many words but then can’t seem to speak in words at all; child was running but now can’t seem to walk) • Child screams for hours without a break • Child clutches at private parts anxiously (possible sign of sexual abuse) • Child is violent to the point of causing serious injury to self or others

As the parent, you know your child. If any of your toddler’s behaviors seem really strange or off to you, make an appointment with his pediatrician or even ask to chat over the phone. That’s what they’re there for.

Raising a toddler is one of the most challenging times for parents—they don’t call it the Terrible 2s for nothing. One thing I know for sure is my toddler is weird (but adorable!), and it’s my job as his mom to help him feel comfortable and safe enough to let his little freak flag fly.

From our sponsors: The mission of Allied Foundation is to impact and improve the health and well-being of residents within Allied Physicians Group’s geographical footprint, which currently includes Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk), Queens, Brooklyn, Richmond, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange. The Allied Foundation funds community-based strategies and initiatives, including Breastfeeding Support (toll-free Support Line: 866-621-2769; Breast Milk Depots), Community Education (free app—AlliedPG—and lectures about such topics as ADHD, managing food allergies, behavioral health, and infant CPR), Early Childhood Literacy (proud partner of Reach Out and Read and The BookFairies); and Community Service (Diaper Bank of Long Island). For more information, visit alliedfoundation.org.

BrooklynParent 41

raising kids teen

Is Your Child Ready to Be a CIT? ››

Find out what being a counselor-in-training really means, and what camp directors look for in their trainees. By Lambeth Hochwald

I

f you’re the parent of a teen who lives for anything related to camp, now might be the time to talk to him about applying for a summer job as a counselor-in-training. Turns out, becoming a CIT is the next best thing to being a camper because your teen will get firsthand experience and job training, and have a little fun, too.

How Do I Know My Child Is Ready?

Your teenager may have set up many a lemonade stand or sold Girl Scout cookies, but for most kids a CIT position will be their first job.

As a parent, you’ll know that your teen is a great CIT candidate if he or she is extra trustworthy. “An important question for parents to consider is, ‘Would I trust my teen to watch other people’s children?’ suggests Michael Halpern, director of Mosholu Day Camp in the Bronx. If your answer is yes, “That’s usually a good sign that you, as a parent, think that your child would be a great counselor-in-training.”

Also ask yourself how reliable your teen is, says Colleen Barnhart, camp director at Camp Claire in Lyme, CT. “When you ask him or her to do something and walk away, does it get done?” she asks.

Again, if you’re able to answer ‘yes’ to this question, your child probably is conscientious enough to make a good CIT. To help your teen get ready for the job, give her responsibilities around the house and hold her accountable, Barnhart says. “Assign her chores, show her exactly how to do them by participating with her as a partner, and then have her do that task alone the next week. If she messes up, don’t tell her that it is not her fault. Instead, be constructive. Tell her it’s okay because she is learning and show her how to do better next time.”

There’s one more important character trait your child should have: He should really love camp. At Mosholu, for example, 95 42 April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

percent of CITs are ex-campers, and supervisors there have worked up the ranks all the way from their days as campers to unit leader.

“The perfect CIT is one who grew up in my camp because they know how things go,” Halpern says. “That’s even more important to us than an application filled with babysitting experience. The fact that you’ve been in camp means that you know about the group dynamic,” Halpern explains. “As CITs, you’re not going to be oneon-one with a child ever, so we need to know that you’ve had that experience interacting in groups.”

Last of all, make sure your teen has the right motivation for applying for a CIT job. Does he want to work with kids, or does he just want to be back at camp? “CIT work is hard work,” Barnhart says. “To know if your child is really ready to be a CIT, ask what his goals are for the summer. Be sure he’s clear on why he wants this job.”

The Qualities Camp Directors Value

One of the key qualities of a CIT is an eagerness to to learn. “I want my CITs to take on a leadership role and add more responsibilities as they get experiences,” says Peter Corbin, founder and director of Corbin’s Crusaders Sports Club in Greenwich, CT, who hires five to 10 CITs each summer. “When they come to us as a CIT they don’t have a lot of experience. That’s why at the beginning we give them a taste of responsibility, and as they get more and more successful, we give them more. If they’re not as successful, we’ll give them more direction.”

The other qualities camp directors look for include good communication skills, maturity, responsibility, respect, care for others, interest in working and engaging with children, teamwork, and initiative, Barnhart says.

“At the beginning, initiative looks like being a willing buddy to a camper for trips to the bathroom or nurse,” she explains. “It’s also helping campers clean their area without being asked, and starting games with campers during downtime...Initiative is one of many qualities that is important for a camp staff to function as a team, because that is what we essentially are when it comes down to it.”

Familiarity with the camp can also be an important factor when a teen is hired to be a CIT, Halpern says. “We look at the type of camp they went to and if their camp was similar to ours,” he says.

In the end, a meeting without the parents present is a critical part of most hiring procedures. “We like to have a conversation with teens— without their parents there—so we can speak to their maturity and their abilities to be outgoing and friendly,” Halpern says.

What Kids Can Expect From a CIT Program

As a CIT, your teen may stay with her assigned bunk or switch around the camp depending on the need for extra help. She could be asked to pitch in on a variety of tasks, such as setting up the baseball fields before campers arrive (including making sure all the equipment is in place), assisting the arts and crafts counselors, or helping the swim instructors. “Typically we give the CITs the option to either be with a group or with an activity,” Corbin says. “I’ve had CITs learn how to become swim instructors and ultimately work as lifeguards, while others tend to work with a particular age group all summer.”

Regardless, CITs should expect to always have someone supervising them. Your child should also be prepared for long, tiring days. “CITs tend to get tired very easily because they’re working the full day and may have never done so before,” Corbin says. “They realize quickly that the work isn’t always easy, but it’s also really wonderful to see their sense of pride in the job—they often tell me how cool it was to work with such and such kids, or do a particular job.”

In addition, Barnhart says that while CITs should expect fun lessons and team-building activities, they should also realize that, unlike camp itself, not every second is going to be fun. “Working at a camp is a lot of hard, sometimes gross work, especially at resident camps where we are on duty twenty hours a day, six days a week,” she says. “CITs will get tired and frustrated, but it is all part of the process of maturing and learning how to be a camp counselor.” Another thing your child needs to realize is he will in all likelihood not get paid. CITs “are legally campers, so they pay to attend, but we write them letters for community service hours,” Barnhart says. Of course, CIT experience may lead to a paid counselor job in future years.

For some kids, it can be a bit of a transition to move from camper to counselor. Barnhart understands this. “I firmly believe in giving CITs the chance to grow into the role and rise to expectations, which is why I don’t call them ‘kids’ anymore,” she says. “They are no longer campers, except legally, so we start treating them like the young adults they are. They are never in charge of supervision but they certainly can assist us with it.”

In the end, consider this: Being a CIT is essentially one giant job interview for the next year. “We look for CITs to use feedback to grow,” Barnhart says. “We constantly give CITs feedback on how they are doing, what their strengths are, what we would like to see more of, and specifically what negative behaviors we would like them to be aware of and change. A great CIT will often go out of their way to ask for feedback...reflect on it, and actively try to do better.”

That feedback loop is what will enable your teen to become a CIT and then, hopefully, be asked back as a counselor for a future summer.

Lambeth Hochwald is a New York City-based journalist covering trends, relationships, and life in New York City.

Call for a Personal Tour Anytime!

June 25- Aug 3, 2018

LeifEricsonDaySchool BrooklynParent 43

Camps for Older Kids CAMPS FOR OLDER KIDS Aviator Sports and Events Center

3159 Flatbush Ave. Jason Vasquez, Youth Programs director: 718-758-7510 jason@aviatorsports.com Jenna Jones, Hospitality Department manager: 718-758-7549 jenna@aviatorsports.com aviatorsports.com/summer-day-camps As the oldest campers at Aviator Sports Summer Day Camp, the counselors and staff work closely with the campers in the Teen Division to empower leadership, meaningful participation, and discipline in order to get them ready for the Aviator Sports Summer Day Camp CIT (Counselor-in-Training) program for the following summer. Teen Division campers have access to all the facilities camp has to offer. Campers are game ready, working closely with staff to continue to develop their skills and comfort level. Teen Division campers attend weekly field trips in addition to on-site activities.

Brooklyn Music School

126 Saint Felix St. 718-638-5660 brooklynmusicschool.org contactus@brooklynmusicschool.org Due to popular demand, as part of the Summer Music and Dance Institute, for students ages 9-12 we are excited to offer several intensive music and dance courses including: Dance Intensive, Drums Intensive, Hip-Hop Intensive, Strings Intensive, Jazz Intensive, and Rock Band Intensive. These courses are tailored specifically to engage older, more experienced students. Rather than sampling a variety of music and dance classes, students have the opportunity to delve deeply into one specific instrument or subject matter.

Camp Clio

Held at Camp Claire 15 Oakland Ave., Lyme, CT Middlesex County Camp 298 E. Haddam Moodus Road, Moodus, CT 212-472-5207 campclio.org Camp Clio and our new Camp Clio Teen offer a unique experience for adopted children (ages 9-12) and

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teens (ages 13-16). Camp Clio campers and counselors, themselves adopted and serving as role models, share the intimacy and safety of being with other adopted friends, providing the opportunity to share feelings and adoption stories with others who understand adoption without explanation because they are “just like me”—all in a fun camp environment. Camp Clio Teen: July 1-13. Camp Clio Youth: July 1-21.

Campers may come for one or more sessions. Scholarships available.

Camp Maritime

3000 Emmons Ave., Sheepshead Bay 718-332-4859 campmaritime.com Camp Maritime provides an exciting, academic, youth development and leadership program, blending nautical activities, science, and wellness! Taught in small groups by U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captains and certified lifeguards and educators. Camp runs Monday-Friday from 8am-5pm, June 25-Aug. 31.

Water activities include sailing, boating, windsurfing, kite boarding, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, scuba diving, surfing, snorkeling, and fishing. On the final week, campers plan extended voyages—reading tide schedules, commanding the navigation, managing sail trim, and steering the course. Ten-week, five-week, or two-week programs and door-todoor pickup service available.

CBE KIDS CAMP Travel camps

274 Garfield Place, Park Slope 718-768-3814 cbebk.org/camp; bfinkelstein@cbebk.org Movin’ On Travel Camp is known as CBE KIDS’ cool camp for youth entering fourth through ninth grades. Trips to great places like baseball games, climbing walls, amusement parks, and two overnights (Camelbeach Water Park and Club Getaway). New this summer: Tuesday and Thursday are elective days and special events including coding, master chef, movie making, and sports.

Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex Summer Camps West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park, Manhattan Field House Registration Desk:

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

212-336-6500 x6520 Camps: 212-336-6846 chelseapiers.com/camp Urban Adventure camp at Chelsea Piers offers teens instruction in kayaking, rock climbing, and sailing, as well as opportunities to participate in more traditional sports such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, ice-skating, and fencing.

Campers put their newly acquired skills to use on short kayak and sailing trips, weekly Urban Game competitions, and weekly off-site excursions to various locations.

Our coaches are experienced in inspiring teens to challenge themselves and build camaraderie with fellow campers. After care, transportation, and lunch available for all full-day campers. Early Bird pricing available through May 18!

Keylab

94 Luquer St. 718-576-3514 keylab.nyc; info@keylab.nyc Keylab offers flexible scheduling and pricing for summer camps!

Our camps are educational, inspiring, and fun! Booking a camp experience at Keylab is a great way to get your kids involved with music, film, and podcasting. Camps run Monday-Friday, 9:30am-3:30pm, for kids ages 6-12 of all skill levels.

Book a full five-day camp, a single day, or purchase three-, five-, or 10-day camp packages. The more days you book, the better your price! Visit keylab.nyc/camps, email info@keylab.nyc, or call 718576-3514 for more information.

Mill Basin Day Camp

5945 Strickland Ave. 718-251-6200 millbasindaycamp.com Summers are times to spend with friends, make memories, and share experiences that last a lifetime.

MBDC is dedicated to providing exciting and fulfilling camp experiences for children through fun, recreational, and safe activities.

Our modern, air-conditioned, and private facility offers a wide range of activities for children entering pre-K through ninth grade.

There are six individual camps, each with unique and innovative programming. Bring the family for

a personal tour of the facility and discussion of the camp program.

The Park Slope Day Camp

Ronny Schindler, executive director 718-788-7732 parkslopedaycamp.com Think you’ve outgrown camp?

Think again. Park Slope Day Camp has the summer experience for you. Entering sixth-eighth grade?

On Wheels is the place to go because we go places! Daily trips including a weekly amusement park, two overnight experiences, and awesome workshops that hone your skills. Entering ninth or 10th grade? Leadership “what, what?!?!”

We build the next generation of committed and enthusiastic leaders through hands on workshops and real life opportunities, focused on strengthening public speaking, goal setting, and communication skills.

Urban Explorers Day Camp

38-32 Flatlands Ave. 718-951-9732 urbanexplorers.nyc admin@urbanexplorers.nyc Urban Explorers has more than 40 years of experience providing fun-filled, educationally sound programs geared toward a child’s learning and socialization. Each day provides new and exciting activities, each week new and exciting trips. Research shows that program diversity naturally enhances a child’s curiosity and innate ability to learn. This leads to our belief that the more children explore, the faster they discover themselves. If you live anywhere in Brooklyn, the Rockaways, or near the Brooklyn-Queens border, we will gladly provide free door-todoor transportation.

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

185 Colonial Springs Road, Wheatley Heights 631-643-7900 usdan.org Get your camp on at Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts—the perfect place for young artists ages 12 and older. With more than 100 classes to choose from, including Ukulele, Rock Band, Mobile Photography, Yoga, Quidditch, Cosplay, Matinee Idol: Mean Girls, Sculpture, and Hip-Hop Dance.

exclusive early morning access to the new Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit! Use promo code NYMETRO to receive an exclusive 10-percent discount on your purchase of summer camp! For more information, please visit our website at wcs.org/parks/camps, call 800-433-4149, or email edu@wcs.org.

Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Zoos and Aquarium

YMCA Summer Camps

Prospect Park Zoo: 450 Flatbush Ave. 718-399-7327 The Bronx Zoo: 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx; 718-220-5132 Central Park Zoo: 830 Fifth Ave., Manhattan; 212-438-6583 Queens Zoo: 53-51 111th St., Corona, Queens; 718-271-7361 New York Aquarium: 602 Surf Ave. 718-265-3457 wcs.org/education/programs Summer just got wild! Send your animal lover to summer camp at the Prospect Park Zoo and New York Aquarium! Campers will enjoy up-close animal experiences, Wildlife Theater performances, and age appropriate, hands-on STEM activities. Join us at the Aquarium for keeper chats, behind-the-scenes experiences, and

ymcanyc.org/camp bit.ly/2FgUwLs rho@ymcanyc.org At YMCA Summer Camps, children learn leadership skills and develop self-confidence in a safe, accepting, and stimulating environment. They also build robots, go on field trips, shoot hoops, learn to swim, make new friends, and laugh all summer long!

Our creative, educational camp programming—structured around the Y’s values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility— helps campers reach their fullest potential, physically, mentally, and emotionally. With six locations in Manhattan and the Bronx, find the perfect camp for your child!

Visit us at ymcanyc.org/camp to learn more today!

2018

There’s something for everyone, whatever your interest. Interested in having fun and honing your leadership skills? Check out Usdan’s Leadership Institute, where campers can meet and be mentored by visiting artists and performers. Enroll with promo code CampOn for $100 off. More info at usdan.org.

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The Learnatory S.T.E.A.M. Summer Camp Scholarships and Grants Available with Early Registration

The Learnatory S.T.E.A.M. Summer Camp Grades 1st - 9th | July 9 - August 17, 2018

St. Francis College 180 Remsen Street, Brooklyn, New York 11201 At The Learnatory, summer fun is S.T.E.A.M.-focused preparing campers for the real world, though they’ll be having too much fun to notice. In addition to outdoor activities, your child will experience personalized learning in Reading and Math, and explore XBox Game Creation, Animation, Coding, Spa Science, Flight & Aviation, Mobile App Development, Robotics, and YouTube Channel Production.

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WARNING: The Learnatory has been known to cause kids and teens to wake their parents up at 6:00 a.m. as a result of their excitement to get to class.

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The Learnatory

www.thelearnatory.org

(347) 787-0435 BrooklynParent 45

raising kids from our advertisers

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April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

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Meet the

Health Care Professional Pediatric Immediate Care 698 Manhattan Ave. 718-389-PEDS (7337) 150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-PEDS (7337); pediatricimmediatecare.com

Dr. Charlot Cascya - Allergy and Asthma Care of Brooklyn 10 Plaza St. E., Suite 1E 311 Saint Nicholas Ave., Ridgewood 347-564-3211 brooklynallergydr.com

Park Slope Kids Dental Care 150 4th Ave. 718-488-0200 parkslopekidsdental.com

Brooklyn Family Orthodontics Alexis K. Fermanis, D.D.S., M.S. 142 Joralemon St., 6B, Brooklyn Heights 73 8th Ave. at Union Street, Park Slope 718-395-6582; bkfamilyortho.com

Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. State-ofthe-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted.

Complete pediatric and adolescent care, as well as baby, camp, school, and sports physicals. Certified urgent care recommended by Urgent Care Association of America. Thirty years of dedication to our patients. The offices are open seven days a week including holidays, 8am-11pm.

At Park Slope Kids Dental Care, children who are first seen for a friendly examination and cleaning are able to enjoy the dental experience and build a bond of trust with us. A customized dental plan that includes prevention, growth development, and possible treatment is created to fit your child’s specific dental needs. We are committed to giving children the best possible experiences at our office to help set them up for a lifetime of good oral health.

Dr. Cascya Charlot is an award-winning, Harvard Medical School-trained physician who is board-certified in pediatric and adult allergy and immunology. She is the chief of pediatric allergy at Methodist Hospital in Park Slope, and medical director of Allergy and Asthma Care of Brooklyn in Park Slope and Williamsburg. She evaluates patients for a wide variety of allergic conditions including asthma, eczema, food allergies, sinusitis, and environmental allergies. Throughout her career, she has received numerous accolades including the prestigious Patients’ Choice “Most Compassionate Doctor” award in 2012 and 2013.

Dr. Alexis Fermanis is an orthodontic specialist who practiced in Brooklyn for 10 years before starting Brooklyn Family Orthodontics in 2014. She is a native New Yorker and enjoys running and traveling in her free time. Dr. Fermanis believes that a beautiful smile makes a great first impression and she is passionate about providing that to her patients. She is active in her alumni societies and local dental organizations, and regularly attends continuing education classes so she can provide the most successful results for her patients.

DISCOVER • PROTECT • INSPIRE Bronx Zoo

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April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Summer just got WILD! Join us for an unforgettable experience that includes age-appropriate, hands-on STEM activities, up-close animal encounters, and exhibit explorations!

Call 1-800-433-4149 or email edu@wcs.org for more info!

Central Park Zoo

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OPENHOUSES 2018 Aviator Sports and Events Center

3159 Flatbush Ave. Jason Vasquez, Youth Programs director 718-758-7510 jason@aviatorsports.com Jenna Jones, Hospitality Department manager 718-758-7549 jenna@aviatorsports.com aviatorsports.com/summer-day-camps Join us for an open house Saturdays, April 14 and 29, May 5 and 20, or June 2 and 16.

Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex Summer Camps

West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park, Manhattan Field House Registration Desk: 212-336-6500 x6520 Camps: 212-336-6846 chelseapiers.com/youth, chelseapiers.com/camp Join us for an open house and sample classes at the Golf Club on April 28 from 12-2pm.

Please RSVP.

The Learnatory

St. Francis College, 180 Remsen St.

347-787-0435 thelearnatory.org dthompson@thelearnatory.org Join us for an open house on March 24.

Session one: 9-10:45am; session two: 11am12:45pm. Also on March 31 from 9am12pm. Free Animation Class. RSVP required.

Mill Basin Day Camp

5945 Strickland Ave. 718-251-6200 millbasindaycamp.com Join us for an open house on April 8 or 22 from 11am-2pm.

The Park Slope Day Camp

Ronny Schindler, executive director 718-788-7732 parkslopedaycamp.com Join us for an open house at 339 8th St., just below 6th Avenue. Saturdays, April 14 and 28 at 1pm and 2:30pm.

Stepping Stones Nursery School 245 86th St., Bay Ridge 718-630-1000 Stepping Stones-The Next Step

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718-630-1001 steppingstones86.com steppingstones86@aol.com Join us for an open house on Wednesday, April 11 at 6pm.

Urban Explorers Day Camp

38-32 Flatlands Ave. 718-951-9732 urbanexplorers.nyc admin@urbanexplorers.nyc Join us for an open house on Saturday, April 21 from 1-4pm. Refreshments, free camp raffles, and takeaways for the kids!

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts

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. Sundays, April 15 or May 20, 11am-2pm.

BrooklynParent 51

Professional PartyCentral services

Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals 718-468-7500; hablamos Español littleopticsinc@yahoo.com We provide eyeglasses and professional eye care for children, including infants, and young adults. We also alleviate any self-esteem issues associated with the stigma of wearing glasses. When your child leaves Little Optics, rest assured they will feel confident.

DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS PEDIATRIC IMMEDIATE CARE 698 Manhattan Ave. 718-389-PEDS (7337) 150 E. Sunrise Highway, Suite 105, North Lindenhurst 631-956-PEDS (7337) 1077 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown 631-864-PEDS (7337) pediatricimmediatecare.com Pediatric Immediate Care is a team of hearts where kids come first. State-ofthe-art medical office equipment allows us to deliver your test results during your visit. Kid-friendly; walk-ins welcome; most insurance plans accepted.

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.

SPECIAL NEEDS LITTLE OPTICS INC. 192-07 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 53-15 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside

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A PIRATE Saturday

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From Dallas Children’s Theater Based on the book by Melinda Long

“Swashbuckling adventure!”

– Dallas Morning News

MEET THE CAST AFTER THE SHOW!

PARTY ENTERTAINMENT CLOWNS.COM Proudly serving Westchester, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx 516-577-0000; 718-971-5862 clowns.com We are a family-owned and -operated entertainment company, offering a wide range of party and entertainment services including clowns, inflatable bounce houses, characters, magicians, princesses, magic shows, face painting, and party concession rentals.

PARTY PLACES AVIATOR SPORTS AND EVENTS CENTER 3159 Flatbush Ave. 718-758-7551 aviatorsports.com/birthday-parties Aviator Sports and Events Center has 12 LOOKING FOR birthday party options for kids. From pool parties to ice-skating, there are parties for every season!

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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! FAIRYTALE ISLAND 7110-3rd Ave. 646-667-9096 facebook.com/fairytaleislandplayground icecream124@hotmail.com Fairytale Island provides a high quality, safe, and amazing indoor space for hosting birthday parties. This environment will also encourage social, emotional, language, cognitive, and physical skill development.

INTREPID SEA, AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Pier 86, W. 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, Manhattan 646-381-5166 Saving money on intrepidmuseum.org camp@intrepidmuseum.org a New York City Celebrate your child’s birthday with a familyparty! day is easy! one-of-a-kind 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!

KIDS ‘N ACTION Cityguideny.com has 1149coupons McDonaldand Ave.discounts for 718-377-1818 NYC sightseeing attractions, kidsnaction.com; restaurants,steven@kidsnaction.com stores and more.

Fun and thrills are what your kids will have Great New Kids Yorknever deals, at Kids ‘N Action. get bored savings, special offers enjoying our thrilling indoor rollerand coaster, deep discounts—for you and amusing winding train, exciting go-karts, and your action-filled arcade games. family—are yours Parties with include and rides. justunlimited a click ofsoft theplay mouse.

Photo: Courtesy of Dallas Children’s Theatre

All tickets: $12

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(718) 368-5596 www.OnStageAtKingsborough.org 52

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

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

Saving money on a New York City family day is easy!

GREAT DEALS? Cityguideny.com has coupons and discounts for NYC sightseeing attractions, restaurants, stores and more.

Great New York deals, savings, special offers and deep discounts—for you and your family—are yours with just a click of the mouse.

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

dance

Keylab............................................................................ 47

Aviator Sports Recreation........................................ 39, 46

School of American Ballet.............................................. 19

Llingsworth Music.......................................................... 50

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum................................ 13

Streb.............................................................................. 45

NFL Experience............................................................. 39

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts................................... 2

Ume Ume Music & Arts................................................. 39

Ume Ume Music & Arts................................................. 39 Wildlife Conservation Society ....................................... 50

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts................................... 2

developmental Mr. Speech Pathology................................................... 21

performing arts / acting

camps

School of American Ballet.............................................. 19

On Stage at Kingsborough............................................ 52

Aviator Sports Recreation........................................ 39, 46

YMCA of Greater New York........................................... 47

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts................................... 2

Bible Speaks Church (The)........................................... 25

Young People’s Day Camp - Brooklyn............................. 3

Brooklyn Music School.................................................. 46

religious

Camp Clio...................................................................... 47

education

Camp Huntington........................................................... 21

Bible Speaks Church (The)......................................... 125

Camp Maritime.............................................................. 46

Brienza’s Academic Advantage..................................... 17

Chelsea Piers................................................................ 10

Bushwick Montessori..................................................... 33

DGK Parochial School of Holy Cross............................ 23

FasTracKids Brooklyn / Staten Island........................... 51

Congregation Beth Elohim....................................... 11, 46

Leif Ericson Day School................................................ 43

Bible Speaks Church (The)........................................... 25 Congregation Beth Elohim....................................... 11, 46

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum................................ 13

DGK Parochial School of Holy Cross............................ 23

Keylab............................................................................ 47

FasTracKids Brooklyn / Staten Island........................... 51

Leif Ericson Day School................................................ 43

Huntington Learning Center.......................................... 21

Mill Basin Day Camp................................................. 5, 47

Leif Ericson Day School................................................ 43

Park Slope Day Camp............................................. 47, 56

Mr. Speech Pathology................................................... 21

Rab’s Country Lanes....................................................... 9

OHEL Children’s Home & Family.................................. 21

special needs

Smart Start.................................................................... 20

Stepping Stones Preschool........................................... 20

Stepping Stones Preschool........................................... 20

UFT Charter School....................................................... 37

Camp Huntington........................................................... 21

Streb.............................................................................. 45 The Learnatory.............................................................. 45 Urban Explorers Day Camp............................................. 7

family entertainment / events / outings

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts................................... 2

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum................................ 13

Wildlife Conservation Society ....................................... 50

Llingsworth Music.......................................................... 50

YMCA of Greater New York........................................... 47

NFL Experience............................................................. 39

Young People’s Day Camp - Brooklyn............................. 3

OHEL Children’s Home & Family.................................. 21 On Stage at Kingsborough............................................ 52

child care / day care

Rab’s Country Lanes....................................................... 9

Mommybites.................................................................. 55

Wildlife Conservation Society ....................................... 50

Smart Start.................................................................... 20 Stepping Stones Preschool........................................... 20

retail Llingsworth Music.......................................................... 50

Huntington Learning Center.......................................... 21 Mr. Speech Pathology................................................... 21 OHEL Children’s Home & Family.................................. 21

sports Aviator Sports Recreation........................................ 39, 46 Camp Maritime.............................................................. 46 Chelsea Piers................................................................ 10 Mill Basin Day Camp................................................. 5, 47 Streb.............................................................................. 45

fitness Camp Maritime.............................................................. 46

classes

Mill Basin Day Camp.................................................. 5,47

Brienza’s Academic Advantage..................................... 17

School of American Ballet.............................................. 19

Urban Explorers Day Camp............................................. 7 YMCA of Greater New York........................................... 47 Young People’s Day Camp - Brooklyn............................. 3

Brooklyn Music School.................................................. 46 Bushwick Montessori..................................................... 33

health

theater

Chelsea Piers................................................................ 10

Allergy & Asthma Care of Brooklyn......................... 33, 50

On Stage at Kingsborough............................................ 52

Congregation Beth Elohim....................................... 11, 46

Brooklyn Family Orthodontics.................................. 33, 50

DGK Parochial School of Holy Cross............................ 23

Park Slope Kids Dental Care................................... 14, 50

Keylab............................................................................ 47

Pediatric Immediate Care........................................ 14, 50

Rab’s Country Lanes....................................................... 9

tutors Brienza’s Academic Advantage..................................... 17

Smart Start.................................................................... 20

music

FasTracKids Brooklyn / Staten Island........................... 51

Ume Ume Music & Arts................................................. 39

Brooklyn Music School.................................................. 46

Huntington Learning Center.......................................... 21

BrooklynParent 53

raising kids quotables

What are some ways you’ve taught your kids kindness?

“Leading by example is always the best way to teach kids anything.

My husband and I do little things, like say, ‘please’ and ‘thank you,’ but we also show kindness and empathy to our children and to each other, which our kids see and emulate.”

–Carol Bermudez, New City

“When my daughter was 4 and in an especially not-so-nice mood my partner and I explained The Golden Rule, which is essentially, ‘treat people how you want them to treat you.’ Now when she says something mean or refuses to share a toy with her brother, we just say, ‘Stay gold, Roxie,’ and usually that does the trick.”

–Aisha R., Clinton Hill

“It’s so hard for kids to think beyond themselves, especially when they are so young, but it is also so important. We teach our son kindness in the larger sense. We encourage him not only to be kind to his friends, but to himself, to the earth, to animals. Giving him a broad perspective early on will teach him to be a conscious citizen in this big world...we hope.”

–Jeffrey Klimpton, Manhattan

in an instagram “I love this little guy so much! He’s going to be new to this big brother business but I know he’s going to have the baby laughing all the time with all of his jokes.”

“My kids’ school teaches a ‘Kind and Gentle’ philosophy that they carry over into all activities. The other day, I got what seemed to be my 100th call from a telemarketer and after some pretty foul language on my part, my daughter reminded my that I was not being K and G (kind and gentle). She’s the one who’s teaching me!”

–Paula Terrozzo, Long Island City, Queens

(Posted by @rattlesandheels aka Queens mom Adanna Dill)

Go For It!

Whatever ‘it’ is that you feel like you might be the only mom doing or not doing or feeling or not feeling, you’ve probably got company somewhere. Find another mom at library lap time or in the church nursery or at the pediatrician’s and lay ‘it’ on the line—wait for the blessing of hearing that mom say ‘me, too.’

–Elizabeth Spencer in a post entitled “New Mama, You Don’t Have to ‘Cherish Every Moment’,” on motherly.ly

54

April 2018 | nymetroparents.com

“It’s always great to see your children trying new things, watching their adventurous side coming to light. It’s especially gratifying when I see my son—who’s been diagnosed with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder—take a leap even when he is scared. I have done plenty of things while afraid and after I complete them I feel so freakin’ good. That’s exactly what he’s been doing lately, only it is much harder for him than for me, or for most of us. He’s been trying new things and just going for it, even when he’s scared.

–Eileen Carter-Campos in an article entitled “Helping a Child With Autism Try New Things;” read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/new-things-autism.

More NYMetroParents.com Highlights: FUN IN SPRING: Download a free guide to the top Spring activities in the NY area (nymetroparents.com/ spring-activities).

PLAN YOUR CHILD’S SUMMER: Find the perfect camp at nymetroparents.com/camp-finder.

HOPPIN’ GOOD TIME: Find local Easter events at nymetroparents.com/easter-nyc.

MAKE YOUR OWN MATZAH: A Passover activity for the whole family (nymetroparents.com/matzah).

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