Nassau Parent January 2020

LongIsland NASSAU EDITION

Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

JANUARY 2020

Education Decisions • Choosing the right school for your child • Schools and resources

What’s the big deal about TikTok? Our favorite podcasts for kids

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, NY 1-844-824-2778 | USDAN.ORG

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inside

Original photo by Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company (sarahmerians.com) Clothing courtesy Macy’s Backstage (macysbackstage.com)

january 2020 16 Choices, Choices, Choices How to choose the best learning environment for your child

22 Our Favorite Podcasts For Kids These audio stories are a great substitute for screens

36 What’s the Big Deal About TikTok? A primer for parents whose kids are captivated

38 Is Your Child Being Cyberbullied?

Learn how to read the signs, and how to help

COLUMNS 6 Editor’s Note 9 News: What’s Happening in the Community 12 Advice: Ask DadandBuried 14 Mommybites: Only Child No More 46 Last Word: What’s Your New Year’s

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Resolution For Your Kids?

THINGS TO DO 25 Family Activities Calendar

RESOURCES 20 Education Directory 40 Party Central 42 Professional Services 43 Open Houses

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38

Meet the Healthcare Professional 45 Advertisers’ Index

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Helping Parents Make Better Decisions facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

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

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editor’s note

JANUARY 2020 • Vol.11 • No.8

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

New Year, New Look!

T

he New Year always seems to mark a time when we can turn over a new leaf and start fresh (even if you’re not really into the whole resolution thing). And what better way for us to start fresh than with a new look?!

We’ve updated both our design and editorial content to give you what you want—all to help you make better decisions for your family.

You can still find a robust calendar near the middle of the issue (p. 25) with events organized by type—educational activities, events for kids who love nature, maker activities, ways to get active, museums and exhibits, and more—so you can find the perfect things to do with your kids.

You’ll also find articles that help you be a better parent. In this issue, you’ll learn why TikTok is so popular and whether it’s okay for your teen (p. 36), and how to tell if your child may be a victim of cyberbullying and what you can do about it (p. 38).

If you’re a fan of podcasts and have wondered if there are any good ones for kids, turn to p. 22. We rounded up our favorites for little kids, big kids, and teens. The best part? You’ll find them entertaining and fascinating, too, so you can listen together!

And don’t miss our new column, Ask DadandBuried (p. 12), featuring the wise, humorous, and tell-it-like-it-is advice from Mike Julianelle, the dad behind @DadandBuried.

While enjoying our fresh start, we hope you’re successful in yours, whatever it may be. Happy New Year!

Katelin Walling Editorial Director

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling PRODUCTION EDITOR: Melissa Wickes FEATURES EDITOR: Shana Liebman ASSISTANT EDITOR: Jacqueline Neber CALENDARS CALENDAR COORDINATOR: Whitney C. Harris EVENT RESEARCHERS: Kristina Johnson, Shara Levine DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke COPY EDITOR: Christina Vercelletto

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DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATOR: Elvins Cruz, Leonard Porter DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro MARKETING SERVICES MANAGER: Erin Jordan TRAFFIC COORDINATOR: Victoria Cocivera

PRODUCTION

Meet This Month’s Cover Kid! The teen on our January cover is 13-year-old (almost 14—happy birthday!) Jordan from Nassau County—a grand-prize winner in our 2019 Cover Kids Contest!

A huge thanks to Macy’s Backstage for the outfit Jordan’s rocking, and an even bigger shout out to Sarah Merians of Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company (sarahmerians.com) for the amazing photo!

Want to know when the 2020 cover contest opens? Sign up for our newsletter at nymetroparents.com/newsletter!

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com 6

DIRECTOR | PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz DIRECTOR | DIGITAL CONTENT: Silvia Balu

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BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN • ROCKLAND PARENT, STATEN ISLAND PARENT, and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2019, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher.

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

news

A rendering of New Jersey SEA LIFE Aquarium’s Urban Jungle exhibit, which will feature some of the most fearsome freshwater creatures, including red-bellied piranhas

City Under the Sea The NYC-themed New Jersey SEA LIFE Aquarium is slated to open this spring.

SEA LIFE, the world’s largest network of aquariums, recently announced its newest location: East Rutherford, NJ—at American Dream to be exact. The 25,000-square-foot New Jersey SEA LIFE Aquarium will feature more than 3,000 different creatures in more than 10 exhibits inspired by New York City’s most memorable moments and experiences.

“It offers a new wave of underwater adventures,” said Julie Estrada, head of public relations of North America for Merlin Entertainments, which owns and operates SEA LIFE as well as many other locationbased family entertainment experiences. “What’s amazing about it is, it’s really designed to be a child’s first experience with an aquarium.”

Find out more details at nymetroparents.com/sealife.

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Courtesy Andrea Worthington

news

Houseplant Love Jan. 10 is National Houseplant Appreciation Day, so show yours a little extra love—just be careful not to overwater them! Don’t have any of your own? Check out the nine reasons they’re good for your family (nymetroparents.com/ plants), then head out and pick up a few.

Andrea Worthington with her daughter, who’s the reason BabyGotChat.com was created 5 years ago

Healthy Family, Happy Family Teach your kids to sing “Happy Birthday” twice while washing hands for proper cleaning; ensure your children know the etiquette for coughing and sneezing—use a tissue or the crux of your arm— and model these actions; sanitize surfaces in the home—doorknobs, dining surfaces, remote controls, and telephones; and practice good food hygiene by sanitizing countertops and cooking surfaces regularly, always using a clean cutting board, and avoiding mixing uncooked plant- and animalbased foods.

—Philip Tierno, Ph.D., director of clinical microbiology and immunology at New York University Langone Medical Center, on keeping your family healthy during flu season

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The Mom Behind @BabyGotChat

A

ndrea Worthington launched BabyGotChat.com when she moved from Manhattan to Westchester as a soon-to-be-mom in 2014. “I made it my mission to find out all the things I could do with my new daughter. I did so much research it felt weird not sharing it with other moms who are just as eager to get out and about with their kids,” she says. Worthington started by posting about local events, along with tips and tricks, and has continued—three kids later and now with savvy Facebook and Instagram accounts (@babygotchat). “I also love sharing tips I’ve learned to make parenting easier,” she says.

What’s the best parenting advice you ever received?

What’s the best parenting advice you can give?

The advice I relate to the most is that our kids are more perceptive than we may care to admit, and the best thing you can do as a parent is relax if you want them to relax, have fun if you want them to have fun. I pay attention to my emotional temperature and I find that if I’m emitting the wrong vibes, it’s time to take a quick time out to reset myself so I can be a more stable presence.

Kids are flexible, so don’t be afraid to do little things to make your life easier. For example, we have a rule that our kids’ favorite toys, their loveys, don’t leave bed. This means we’ll never lose them in a parking lot or at an amusement park.

Sure, they can bring other toys out with them sometimes, but it’s never their must-have animal.

Read more from Worthington at nymetroparents.com/babygotchat

Connect with us

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

facebook.com/nymetroparents

@nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

New Places, New Programs

Advocating for Unity Day Preschoolers Learn Sign Language

Campers to Learn About Careers in Gaming Hofstra University Continuing Education will offer an Esports (professional video game playing) program beginning summer 2020. It’s for campers entering fourth through 10th grades, with campers separated by grade level. Campers will learn about the rise of collegiate and career opportunities in Esports and meet professional and college Esports athletes. The program will run Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm in three, two-week sessions and one, one-week session. 255 Hofstra University, Hempstead; ce.hofstra.edu/youth.

YMCA at Glen Cove Preschool is offering a sign language program to 2-, 3-, and 4-year-old classes beginning this month. Classes are held once a week for 30 minutes. Through songs, books, and play, students will learn how to sign phrases, animals, colors, food, and the ABCs. 125 Dosoris Lane, Glen Cove; 516671-8270; ymcali.org.

Charles Kolin, a junior at Greens Farms Academy in Westport, CT, has overcome bullying to spearhead an initiative that will hopefully result in Unity Day (Oct. 23) being officially recognized by Congress as a day for students to come together in support of kindness, tolerance, and respect. Charles is working with Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Congressman Jim Himes (D-CT), as well as the PACER Organization in Minnesota, to raise support for the resolution. Read more about Charles at nymetroparents. com/unityday.

What to Do When Your Child is the Bully

Diocese Implements Social-Emotional Learning Diocese of Rockville Centre is now offering Social and Emotional Learning training sessions for staff to enhance their ability to help students through selfawareness, self-management, responsible decision making, relationship skills, and social awareness. The SEL programs are an integrated part of elementary education from nursery through middle school. The goal is for students to develop healthy self-images, adequate coping mechanisms, empathy, and social skills.

516-280-2479; drvc.org.

Make sure your child knows the behavior is unacceptable and you expect it to stop.

Then discuss the reasons behind the bullying to see if you can come up with alternative suggestions. Talk about how your child made the other child feel, relating times when your child might have felt the same way.

Finally, brainstorm ideas of what your child might do to make the other child feel better. —Karen Horowitz, director of the Parenting Resource Network at the Friedberg JCC in Oceanside

LongIslandParent 11

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My son was dying to take drum lessons, so I signed him up and bought him a practice pad.

Now, a few weeks later, he doesn’t want to practice and says he hates playing the drums.

Should I force him to stay with it because it’s important to learn commitment, or let him quit and figure out something else he’s passionate about? —Allison R., Astoria, Queens

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

T

his is a tough one, and I feel for you. I can’t imagine allowing my son to play the drums in the house.

The kid is a walking migraine already! But hey, more power to you. As for the actual question—is it more important to teach kids perseverance and commitment than it is to stop the whining? It’s not an easy one.

My 9-year-old likes two things: video games (Zelda) and reading (Percy Jackson). We encourage the latter, and we try to limit the former by promoting a wider range of interests beyond screen-time. But it’s not easy! I’m not sure if you know this, but children are stubborn. And often lazy.

And sometimes annoying. And mine talk too much. Plus, they won’t go to bed on time. And don’t get me started on the snacking. Also—wait. I’ve gotten off-track.

I think you need to gauge your son’s personality before making a decision. Does he have a track record of bailing on things? Or is this truly a case of the drums just not being for him?

If you’re secure in the fact that percussion just isn’t for him and that there’s something else out there to wet his whistle, something he’ll give 110 percent to, I see no need to belabor it. But if it’s part of a trend—if he tends to quit activities he enjoys when the going gets tough—then maybe it’s a good idea to put on the black hat and force him to keep at it.

Just make him practice in the basement.

Our advice column features the wise and humorous commentary of Mike Julianelle, a 40-something blogger and influencer (aka @dadandburied), who lives in Brooklyn with his wife and two kids.

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DADANDBURIED? Send it to editor@nymetroparents.com with the subject “DadandBuried’s Advice.”

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mommybites

Only Child No More 12 things to do with your first child before the second one arrives

By Christina Vercelletto

D

uring your second pregnancy, it’s normal to have mixed feelings as your party of three nears its end. While there are even sweeter days ahead, you may feel melancholy and nervous about the change. How do you savor the waning weeks, while soothing any trepidation your child may be feeling? We came up with 12 ways to make this time memorable and reassuring.

Make your child king (or queen) for a day. Designate a day when your kiddo is unequivocally in charge (within reason). After making it clear that she can’t, say, shave the dog, let her dictate what you do, where you go, and what you eat for an entire day.

(Just keep reminding yourself this is a one-off. There is no harm in eating marshmallows for breakfast just this once.)

Be spontaneous. Since spur-of-the-moment is not going to be in your vocabulary for a little while, surprise him with a favorite adventure you’ve planned for the day.

Take a family portrait. Capture the final moments of your “first family” for posterity—and for your child. She’ll likely enjoy posing between her parents. And order a framed print to hang in her room.

Pick out a big kid bed. Not only does leaving the crib behind have a practical urgency, but it will make your child feel important and grown-up. Do this sooner rather than later to help ensure that lastminute jitters don’t make him cling to the crib. Also have him choose his bedding—even if it clashes with the walls you just painted.

Make something for the nursery. Explain that you need help decorating the baby’s room and suggest she create a masterpiece in whatever medium she prefers. Alternatively, browse through her artwork and ask if she’d be willing to donate one to the nursery.

Define “the baby.” Make sure your child knows exactly who you’ll be bringing home from the hospital—i.e. an immobile,

sleepy, wee creature, rather than a playmate. If you can’t introduce him to a newborn, show him videos and pictures online.

Come up with a secret language. Even if she’s 5 or 6 years old, she’s not yet able to clearly express herself when she feels jealous, worried, or confused. Come up with a simple signal—a word or a hand gesture—your child can use when she needs your reassurance.

Take a sibling-moon. An inexpensive yet intimate mini vacation is bound to make your child feel special. Plan a trip to see relatives who can shower your soon-to-be big sib with 1-on-1 attention. Or hole up in a nearby hotel and order room service for three.

Answer his questions. As much as you may try to hide any nervousness, you’re likely acting differently. The best thing you can do is explain as much as you can about everything that is going on. Answer his questions as completely and honestly as possible.

Read her stories. Nightly story time may be difficult to maintain for a couple weeks after birth, so use the opportunity now to prepare her for what’s ahead. Let your child choose a few books about becoming a big sibling and turn the pages slowly so she has time to ask questions.

Go shopping. Let your child pick out a welcome gift for the new baby, and then select a present for him. (T-shirts are popular, as are keepsakes or a toy your child has had his eye on.) Whether you frame it as a gift from the baby or from you as parents, it’s a way of celebrating your child’s transition to becoming a big sister or brother.

Pack her a bag. Even if your child will stay at home with friends or family, prep a bag for her that makes her feel like an official member of Team Baby. Pack pajamas, toothbrush and toothpaste, hairbrush, and a change of clothes. Then tuck in a note about how much you love her—and how much you know the baby will too.

Mommybites’ nanny boards only feature postings from nannies’ current families. You can rely on their recommendations. If you need a nanny or babysitter, visit Mommybites.com.

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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Choices, Choices, Choices Our area provides families with a variety of school options, allowing you to choose the best learning environment for your child. By Katelin Walling

W

e all worry about whether we’re making the best choices for our kids, and one thing most of us fret over is whether our children are getting the best education possible that is suited to their needs. In a lot of areas in the country, traditional district public schools may be the only option for kids. But living in the New York metro area, we are #blessed with an abundance of choices in addition to great public schools.

While one school option doesn’t necessarily provide a better education than another, each type has pros and cons for every individual family. It’s up to you to determine which school setting best suits your child’s needs. So in honor of National School Choice Week (Jan. 26-Feb. 1), we dove into the differences between charter, home, independent, international, magnet, and parochial schools to help you make the best education decision for your children.

Charter Schools “The most important concept to get is that a charter school is a public school,” says Ian Rowe, CEO of Public Prep Network, a system of three nonprofit charter schools in New York City. But charter schools often have a specific focus, one that typically responds to a need articulated by public school families. Public Prep schools, for example, are all single sex (two schools for girls and one school for boys) and have a focus in STEM education.

As with public schools, charter schools are tuition-free, though students have to apply for admission. Public Prep currently admits students via a lottery system due to high demand.

Charter schools, though, tend to operate with fewer regulations than traditional public schools and can set their own curriculum.

But there is typically an accountability system in which charters are evaluated each year to see if they are meeting the outcomes set by the state, Rowe adds. Plus, there is a renewal process every five years to determine whether the charter is able to continue. “So, there is a much greater accountability in return for the freedoms you have to operate as a charter,” Rowe says.

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Home Schools There are numerous motivations for a family to decide to homeschool their children, from religious and health reasons to a child’s learning style, aptitude level, or schedule (think child actors). There are also numerous options for home-schooling your child, whether you decide to take the lead in teaching, you enroll him in an online home-school program, such as the George Washington University Online High School, or you join a home-school community, such as Classical Conversations.

Parents who decide to home-school rather than enroll their child in a physical school need to submit a letter of intent, an Individualized Home Instruction Plan, and quarterly reports by specific dates, according to the New York City Department of Education.

Independent Schools Also known as private schools, independent schools are funded by tuition and charitable donations as opposed to taxpayer dollars. “It is independently funded for the most part and also independent from the state to a certain degree,” says Scott Nelson, headmaster of Rye Country Day School, a college preparatory day school in Rye. “For instance, we don’t follow the NYS testing program (Regents), so we have more independence as far as curriculum choices.”

To enroll in an independent school, students have to fill out an application, parents and the student have an interview, and the student has to take an entrance exam, either the Independent School Entrance Exam or the Secondary School Admissions Test, according to Nelson.

Though tuition is a factor in attending an independent school, many offer need-based financial aid. For instance, RCDS offers more than $5 million annually to 60 percent of students, Nelson says.

International Schools A second private school option, international schools are typically multi-cultural and integrate those different cultures into everyday learning. “We have families who hail from all over the world…and we embrace their backgrounds,” says Emily Benson, director of admissions at International Academy of New York in Manhattan.

“We celebrate different times of the year that are holidays for those different cultures, and if we don’t actually make a big celebration about it, we at least discuss it.”

Many international schools are bilingual. IANY, for instance, teaches Mandarin and Spanish, and students spend almost 40 percent of their time interacting in those languages. “When we have a family coming from, say, Egypt, we might be studying Spanish or Mandarin, but we will ask that child, how do you say this in Arabic,” Benson says of welcoming students’ cultures. “We encourage and embrace these other languages and we find that through the way we teach, our children are not only embracing different cultures...but they are also excited to share their home countries’ language and tradition.”

As with other private schools, international schools have an application process, and some require testing while others do not.

Many international schools also offer need-based financial aid. continued on next page

LongIslandParent 17

continued from previous page

Magnet Schools

Parochial Schools

Another tuition-free public school option, magnet schools are federally funded by competitive grants from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Over the past few years, the NYC DOE has won funding for 31 magnet schools across 12 districts in New York City, says Todd Levitt, executive director of magnet programs of NYC DOE. Because of the grants, the NYC DOE is able to offer specialized thematic programs, curriculum, and approaches to teaching, and provide professional development, partnerships, residencies, and extra funding to support special programs, he adds.

These 31 schools have a STEAM/STEM focus, and each individual school follows a theme (architecture, civic leadership, and global conservation to name a few). Partnerships are tailored to each school’s individual pursuits and include Columbia University, American Ballet Theatre, Lego, CUNY, NYIT, Apple Education, and Buck Institute of Education Project Based Learning.

The grants allow magnet schools to have state-of-the-art technology, purchase new art and science supplies, and provide specialty rooms like broadcast studios, hydroponic garden labs, maker spaces, and STEAM labs.

Though they are public schools, the NYC magnet schools have an application process through the NYC DOE Office of Enrollment and the magnet schools (email info@magnetschools.nyc for more information), but there is no screening or testing involved in applying.

Catholic schools are private schools that follow a traditional curriculum but with an added religious component. Students enrolled in a Diocese of Rockville Centre school, for instance, are taught in accordance with the New York state learning standards and take the same Regents exams and SATs as public school students, but learning is infused with a religious curriculum directed by the Diocese, according to Gary Layton, director of marketing and enrollment for DRVC. “Because we are a school that is run by a religious institution, we take a more holistic view. It is not just about educating. It is about building character, instilling values. It is about the kindness, the respect they show each other. It is about doing service projects,” Layton says.

Though the schools in the Diocese are Catholic schools, teach religion courses, and prepare students for their first Holy Communion and Confirmation, not all students practice Catholicism. Those that don’t practice are required to take and pass religion classes, but are not required to participate in religious events or sacraments.

The Diocese of Rockville Centre requires applicants to fill out admissions paperwork, and there is a “modest tuition” that is typically supplemented by the Diocese and the Parish that runs the school, Layton says.

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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LongIslandParent 19

Education Academic Enrichment & Educational Services

Sylvan Learning Centers of Mineola and Huntington

20 Roosevelt Ave., Roslyn 516-484-1789 roslynacademics.com info@roslynacademicprograms.com Roslyn Academic Programs offers enrichment programs for school age children in mathematics, physics, chemistry, robotics, programming and engineering, languages, music, and art. We also offer standardized test (ACT, SAT, etc.) and subject test preparation for high school students.

393 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola 516-743-9943 locations.sylvanlearning.com/us/mineola-ny 1160 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington 631-424-5600 locations.sylvanlearning.com/us/huntington-ny sylvanlearning@optonline.net Sylvan’s Personalized Tutoring programs in reading, writing, mathematics, SAT and ACT Prep will improve your child’s skills and confidence. We use a state-of-theart assessment, personal learning plans, and certified teachers to ensure the high level of quality instruction and support that Sylvan prides itself on.

Girls Inc. of long island

Variety Child Learning Center Syosset SLIDE Program

Advanced Academic Programs of Roslyn

819 Grand Blvd., Deer Park 631-940-3749 x3720 girlsincli.org Girls Inc. of long island inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Visit girlsincli.org to learn more about the Bold Future Leaders Program which brings together high school girls to focus on leadership development, college and career preparedness, and life skills to foster bold successful futures.

Huntington Learning Centers

656 Sunrise Highway, Baldwin • 516-867-4041 607 E. Main St., Bay Shore • 631-968-5100 79-81 Westbury Ave., Carle Place • 516-747-5600 Elwood Shopping Center, 1928B Jericho Turnpike, East Northport • 631-462-8900 Phillips Plaza, 639 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook 516-568-1900 1506 Northern Blvd., Manhasset • 516-365-4455 South Gate Shopping Center, 49-34 Merrick Road, Massapequa Park • 516-799-9500 Gateway Plaza, 499-5 Sunrise Highway, Patchogue 631-289-4900 443 S. Oyster Bay Road, Suite B, 2nd floor, Plainview 516-681-0400 Smithtown Shopping Center, 8 Miller Place, Smithtown 631-360-0422 • huntingtonhelps.com Huntington is the premier tutoring and test prep provider for students in kindergarten to 12th grades, including SAT/ACT and state tests. The company prides itself on personalized attention and proven results. Founded in 1977, Huntington’s mission is to give every student the best education possible.

Learn more about our mission at huntingtonhelps.com.

LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth

Director Dr. Lynne Manouvrier LIU Post, Brookville 516-299-2160 • liu.edu/giftedyouth The Long Island University program for gifted children was established in 1979 in response to the recognition of society’s special responsibilities for children with demonstrably superior intellectual ability. The LIU Center for Gifted Youth offers extraordinary teachers recruited from leading schools in the metropolitan area, and university-level facilities.

The Reading/Writing Learning Clinic at the Joan and Arnold Saltzman Community Services Center of Hofstra University

131 Hofstra University, Hempstead 516-463-5805 • hofstra.edu/rwlclinic Located at Hofstra University, the Reading/Writing Learning Clinic at the Joan and Arnold Saltzman Community Services Center is dedicated to providing literacy support to children and youth in a safe and supportive environment. The Clinic is committed to valuing students’ linguistic and cultural lives.

20

47 Humphrey Drive, Syosset 516-921-7171 VCLC is thrilled to bring you a new Saturday program called the SLIDE Program. SLIDE program will allow your child the opportunity to practice interacting with peers and enhance social development. Weekly themes will facilitate new experiences for your child to participate in as group activities in a cooperative environment.

Village East Gifted - Enrichment Center for the Gifted Learner

Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights 631-549-2313 villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted (VEG), open seven days-a-week, offers a rigorous and highly-creative academic program, in all subject areas, to gifted students ages 2-16. Its CORE curriculum includes instructional writing/grammar, geography, global studies, STEAM, mathematics, Latin/Greek Etymology, SAT/ ACT vocabulary enrichment, business, anatomy/physiology, advanced study skills, and creative problem solving.

YMCA of Long Island

Bay Shore, East Hampton, Glen Cove, Holtsville, Huntington, and Patchogue 855-2YMCALI (962254) • ymcali.org • info@ymcali.org The YMCA of Long Island’s before- and after-school programs support children in reaching their full potential by providing academic support and hands-on enrichment experiences in a safe, structured environment for children in kindergarten through middle school. The YMCA of Long Island partners with school districts in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Day Care & Child Care M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym & Early Childcare Education Center A Rainbow of Programs Under One Roof!

2629 Grand Ave., Bellmore 516-221-1330 171 Eileen Way, Syosset 516-496-7765 matsskidsgym.com “A Rainbow of Programs all under one roof.” Full daycare offered (Syosset), nursery school, infant and toddler classes, afterschool gymnastics, sports, dance, art, cooking, and STEM enrichment, classes (ages 20 months-12 years). Extended day (Syosset), summer day camp, afterschool care-grades kindergarten-fifth (Syosset), “Kids Night Out” events and birthday parties available.

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Parochial & Religious Schools Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island Diocese of Rockville Centre

Multiple Locations 516-280-2479 • licatholicelementaryschools.org Long Island’s Catholic elementary schools are 43 unique and beautiful schools in Nassau and Suffolk counties that educate the whole child in the spirit of service and compassion. Coupled with God’s love, we strive to inspire each child to grow spiritually and academically in a diverse and challenging world.

Holy Child Academy

25 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury 516-626-9300 • holychildacademy.org Holy Child Academy is Long Island’s only premier, independent Catholic elementary and middle school for children of all faiths-toddler through eighth grade.

Our creative educators help each child develop a joy for learning by seamlessly integrating our humanities and science curriculum with technology, fine arts, music, theater, and athletics.

Long Island Lutheran Middle & High School

131 Brookville Road, Brookville 516-626-1700 x546 luhi.org • admissions@luhi.org LuHi is a faith-based, college preparatory school serving students from sixth-12th grades and developing tomorrow’s leaders. We empower every member of our close-knit community to achieve and grow personally, academically, and spiritually. With an education at LuHi, students leave our campus fully prepared for the challenges of higher education.

St. Dominic Elementary School

35 School St., Oyster Bay 516-922-4233 • stdomsob.org Saint Dominic Elementary School was established in 1924 as one of the first Catholic schools on Long Island.

Our primary mission is to incorporate the teachings, values, and traditions of Catholic faith into the religious, academic, physical, and social development of students to prepare them to become leaders of tomorrow.

Saint Mary’s Elementary School

1340 Northern Blvd., Manhasset 516-627 0184 • stmary11030.org St. Mary’s Elementary School students flourish in an environment characterized by academic excellence, inspired faith, and creative learning as they grow in mind and spirit. With small classes, skilled teachers, the latest technology, and exciting extracurricular activities, we inspire excitement for learning while integrating Catholic values into our daily curriculum.

Preschools Countryside Montessori School

354 Lakeville Road, lower level, Great Neck 516-466-8422 • cmsgn.com • info@cmsgn.com Countryside Montessori School was founded in 1998 with the aim of providing a high quality early childhood education based on the philosophy, methods, and techniques developed 100 years ago by educational pioneer Dr. Maria Montessori. Everything in our school is designed to encourage and aid a child’s natural curiosity.

East Woods School

31 Yellow Cote Road, Oyster Bay 516-922-4400 • eastwoods.org East Woods, in Oyster Bay, is a private school for age 2-eighth grade. We are a friendly community of students, faculty, and parents that feels more like one big family. We have been inspiring confidence, excellence, and kindness since 1946.

We develop confident, motivated, and kind leaders.

Everbrook Academy of Glen Head

209 Glen Head Road, Glen Head 866-222-0269 • everbrookacademy.com Everbrook Academy is a 21st century preschool, with a STEAM curriculum. We offer integrated, hands-on learning experiences. Our programs for infants, toddlers, preschool, and pre-K students ensure that children are ready for school. And ready for life. Schedule an appointment at everbrookacademy.com to meet with our principal and enroll today.

Good Shepherd Lutheran School

99 Central Park Road, Plainview 516-349-1966 • gsplainview.org Good Shepherd Lutheran School is the leading Christian preschool in Plainview providing fully licensed year-round daycare, school year, and summer camp programs for children ages 6 weeks-5 years. Specific educational offerings include infant day care, toddler programs, nursery, and pre-kindergarten classes. We welcome families of all faiths and backgrounds.

The Green Vale School

250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville 516-621-2420 • greenvaleschool.org Green Vale is Long Island’s premier and largest coed, independent elementary school for pre-nursery through eighth grade. A program of exceptional academics and small class sizes is combined with emphasis on athletics, visual and performing arts, and character education at every grade level.

M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym & Early Childcare Education Center A Rainbow of Programs Under One Roof!

2629 Grand Ave., Bellmore 516-221-1330 171 Eileen Way, Syosset 516-496-7765 • matsskidsgym.com “A Rainbow of Programs all under one roof.” Full daycare offered (Syosset), nursery school, infant and toddler classes, afterschool gymnastics, enrichment, cooking, sports, and dance classes (ages 20 months-12 years). Extended day (Syosset), summer day camp, afterschool care for grades kindergarten-fifth (Syosset), Kids Night Out (Bellmore), and birthday parties available.

Private Schools Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island Diocese of Rockville Centre

Multiple Locations 516-280-2479 • licatholicelementaryschools.org Long Island’s Catholic elementary schools are 43 unique and beautiful schools in Nassau and Suffolk counties that educate the whole child in the spirit of service and compassion. Coupled with God’s love, we strive to inspire each child to grow spiritually and academically in a diverse and challenging world.

East Woods School

St. Dominic Elementary School

Everbrook Academy of Glen Head

Saint Mary’s Elementary School

31 Yellow Cote Road, Oyster Bay 516-922-4400 • eastwoods.org East Woods, in Oyster Bay, is a private school for age 2-eighth grade. We are a friendly community of students, faculty, and parents that feels more like one big family.

We have been inspiring confidence, excellence, and kindness since 1946. We develop confident, motivated, and kind leaders.

209 Glen Head Road, Glen Head 866-222-0269 • everbrookacademy.com Everbrook Academy is a 21st century preschool, with a STEAM curriculum. We offer integrated, hands-on learning experiences. Our programs for infants, toddlers, preschool, and pre-K students ensure that children are ready for school. And ready for life. Schedule an appointment at everbrookacademy.com to meet with our principal and enroll today.

The Green Vale School

250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville 516-621-2420 • greenvaleschool.org Green Vale is Long Island’s premier and largest coed, independent elementary school for pre-nursery through eighth grade. A program of exceptional academics and small class sizes is combined with emphasis on athletics, visual and performing arts, and character education at every grade level.

Holy Child Academy

25 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury 516-626-9300 • holychildacademy.org Holy Child Academy is Long Island’s only premier, independent Catholic elementary and middle school for children of all faiths-toddler through eighth grade. Our creative educators help each child develop a joy for learning by seamlessly integrating our humanities and science curriculum with technology, fine arts, music, theater, and athletics.

1340 Northern Blvd., Manhasset 516-627 0184 • stmary11030.org St. Mary’s Elementary School students flourish in an environment characterized by academic excellence, inspired faith, and creative learning as they grow in mind and spirit. With small classes, skilled teachers, the latest technology, and exciting extracurricular activities, we inspire excitement for learning while integrating Catholic values into our daily curriculum.

Special Needs The Hagedorn Little Village School, Jack Joel Center for Special Children

750 Hicksville Road, Seaford 516-520-6000 littlevillage.org • jon.feingold@littlevillage.org The Hagedorn Little Village School is a not-for-profit school highly regarded for providing outstanding educational and therapeutic services for children with a wide range of developmental disabilities. HLVS provides yearround programs and services that include diagnostic evaluations and treatment, early intervention, a preschool, an elementary school, SEIT, and related services.

Variety Child Learning Center

17 Fordham Ave., Hicksville 516-938-3846 x329 • hfsli.org Making a difference one child at a time. Students come from 31 Catholic parishes, 34 Long Island school districts, to be a part of this one great school. Our nurturing yet challenging program educates the whole child, in mind, body, and spirit.

47 Humphrey Drive, Syosset • 516-921-7171 Variety Child Learning Center at the Gallow School 72 Farmedge Road, Levittown • 516-490-3301 vclc.org Variety Child Learning Center provides services to more than 750 children and families annually. Services include evaluations to determine eligibility, early intervention, special education, Special Classes in an Integrated Setting, Special Education Itinerant Services, Applied Behavioral Analysis, Family Center Sunday Respite and Recreation Program, SLIDE Program, and Lufrano Training.

Long Island Lutheran Middle & High School

Winston Preparatory School

Holy Family School

131 Brookville Road, Brookville 516-626-1700 x546 • luhi.org • admissions@luhi.org LuHi is a faith-based, college preparatory school serving students from sixth-12th grades and developing tomorrow’s leaders. We empower every member of our close-knit community to achieve and grow personally, academically, and spiritually. With an education at LuHi, students leave our campus fully prepared for the challenges of higher education.

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE ON LONG ISLAND! SUNY COLLEGE FARMINGDALE AT OLD WESTBURY STATE COLLEGE 516.226.CAMP 631.769.CAMP

35 School St., Oyster Bay 516-922-4233 • stdomsob.org Saint Dominic Elementary School was established in 1924 as one of the first Catholic schools on Long Island.

Our primary mission is to incorporate the teachings, values, and traditions of Catholic faith into the religious, academic, physical, and social development of students to prepare them to become leaders of tomorrow.

ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE PATCHOGUE 631.572.0232

30 Deforest Road, Dix Hills 212-719-5598 x2213 • winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/li liadmissions@winstonprep.edu Winston Preparatory School is a highly individualized and responsive setting for students in grades third through 12th with learning differences. Our unique model of education for the individual provides intense skill remediation while encouraging students to build independence, resilience, responsibility, self-awareness, and self-advocacy.

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LongIslandParent 21

tech for kids

Our Favorite Podcasts for Kids These audio stories are a great substitute for screens

By Madeleine Burry

22

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

D

o you look forward to your commute because you can’t wait to hear the latest episode of a true crime story or get advice on anything from finance to relationships to grammar? Podcasts are entertaining and informative for grown-ups—and the same holds true for kids.

In fact, children of all ages can build important skills by listening to podcasts, says Maggie McGuire, the CEO of Pinna, an audio-streaming service for kids. Take toddlers: Exposing them to language-rich, ageappropriate audio “helps them build their emerging vocabulary and aids in building their background knowledge across a wide variety of topics and themes,” McGuire says. Plus, podcasts encourage imagination and curiosity.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options out there for little kids, bigger kids, and teens.

Podcasts for Preschoolers Story Time This bi-monthly podcast features simple but engaging 20-minute original stories, read by a rotating cast of narrators (many with British accents).

While the easy-to-follow tales are a natural fit for bedtime, there’s no reason not to listen in the morning, after lunch, or during a long car ride (bedtime.fm; ages 2-13).

Quentin and Alfie’s ABC Adventures Each of the 26 episodes covers a letter of the alphabet—which is a fun way to introduce kids to letters and sounds. The story follows the adventures of Alfie and his babysitter, Quentin, everywhere from amusement parks to the zoo (pinna.fm; ages 3-5).

Story Pirates This podcast is billed as “by kids, for kids.” Here’s how it works: Kids submit stories and the cast (actors, comedians, and musicians) turns them into hilarious sketch comedies and songs. It’s an upbeat, hilarious show—one episode features a song about trashloving raccoons (gimletmedia.com; ages 3 and older).

Podcasts for Big Kids Wow in the World NPR’s first podcast for kids, now in its third year, is co-hosted by Guy Raz and Mindy Thomas and aims to leave kids (and parents) saying “wow” at the end of each science-themed episode.

Explanations to intriguing questions like “why do zebras have stripes?” and “how do onions make us cry?” are paired with zippy background music (npr.org/podcasts; ages 4-10).

Grim, Grimmer, Grimmest Best-selling author Adam Gidwitz uses dramatic twists and flourishes to share fairy tales from the Brothers Grimm with a classroom of kids (who interject with feedback and opinions.)

Before each story, Gidwitz provides a content warning (in one episode he warned about name-calling), and assigns a rating of grim, grimmer, or grimmest to denote just how weird and scary the episode will be (podcasts.apple.com; ages 6-13).

Saturday Morning Cereal Box This 2-hour podcast bills itself as “a weekly music show for the whole family,” but (luckily) the songs avoid cheesy lyrics,

high-pitched voices, and poor production. Instead, the genrespanning, genuinely interesting music provides a perfect backdrop for hanging with the kids (saturdaycerealbowl. podbean.com; all ages).

Podcasts for Teens Stuff You Should Know This show explores topics as diverse as Ironman triathlons, paternity testing, scurvy, and how highways work. While it’s aimed at adults, curious teens will delight in finding out fascinating back stories they might not have thought about before (stuffyoushouldknow.com; ages 13 and older).

NPR Politics As we enter an election year, it’s important for teens (who will soon be voting) to understand the issues. This non-partisan shows digs into the news on a daily basis—drop into a current episode or tune in on Thursdays for a roundup of the week’s news (npr.org/podcasts; ages 13 and older).

Dear Hank & John John Green—the chart-topping YA author of books such as The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska—and his musician brother, Hank, answer questions, share advice (which they admit is “dubious”), and delve into pop culture. One recent episode featured a long and surprisingly funny discussion of cottage cheese (wnycstudios.org/podcasts; ages 15 and older).

LongIslandParent 23

K R A M UR AR YO END L A C

Sunday, March 8, 11am-2:30pm

Hofstra University David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex

Hosted by

Fun For Kids • Activities

• Crafts

• Bounce Houses

• Sports

• Games

Efficient For Parents Meet directors from camps, summer programs, destinations, local programs and more.

Pre-register today: licampfair.com

Exhibitor & Sponsorship Opportunities

Sign up at licampfair.com

24

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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Y R A U N A J

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

nymetroparents.com/register WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

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

npcal@davlermedia.com

26 Editor’s Hot Tickets 27 NYC Events Worth the Trek 28 Holiday Fun 29 Nature Lovers, Special Needs

30 Theater, Concerts, & Movies 31 Fairs, Festivals, & Markets,

Museums & Exhibits 32 Educational Activities

34 Little Makers

EDITOR’S

T O H TICKETS

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the January 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!

Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid,’ An Immersive Live-To-Film Concert Experience WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 4, 2pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: All WHAT: See The Little Mermaid like never before.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids who know the animated classic will love this live version!

WANT TO GO? $55 and up. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

New Year’s Party WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 7, 4:30-5pm WHERE: Mineola Memorial Library, 195 Marcellus Road, Mineola AGES: 2 and older WHAT: Miss Vivian will pass out noisemakers, refreshments, and celebrate with a Charlie Brown short film. Registration required.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A family-friendly way to ring in the New Year.

WANT TO GO? 516-746-8488. mineolalibrary.info.

Dinosaur World Live!

WHEN: Friday, Jan. 10, 7pm WHERE: Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post/720 Northern Blvd., Brookville AGES: All WHAT: Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World in this interactive new show for the whole family.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Meet a host of impressive creatures, including the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, and Segnosaurus!

WANT TO GO? $25-$51. 516-299-3100. tillescenter.org.

‘Frozen’ Princess Brunch WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 12, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Rolling River Day Camp, 477 Ocean Ave., East Rockaway AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Kids will enjoy brunch and meet their favorite movie characters.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids can expect plenty of singing and dancing, plus special guests including the Ice Queen, the Snow Princess and the Reindeer Prince.

WANT TO GO? $35; $30 enrolled campers. 516-593-2267. https://eventbrite.com/e/frozen-princess-brunch-tickets-78042381865?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.

26

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Disney On Ice Presents ‘Dream Big’ WHEN: Jan. 9-12, see website for showtimes WHERE: NYCB LIVE, Home of The Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: Share every magical moment filled with breathtaking ice skating and beloved songs and stories that give you a reason to believe!

WHY WE LOVE IT: The fun features Moana, Anna and Elsa, and Miguel from Coco.

WANT TO GO? $15-$140. 516-231-4848. nycblive.com.

‘The Rainbow Fish Musical’ WHEN: Jan. 18-26, Saturdays, 11am; Sundays, 12pm; Jan. 20, 11am WHERE: The Showplace at Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore AGES: All WHAT: See the international bestseller and award-winning book brought to life.

WANT TO GO? $12. 516-599-6870. plazatheatrical.com.

Big Apple Circus

HOT TICKET

WHEN: Through Feb. 2: see website for showtimes WHERE: Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Catch the 42nd season of this world-renowned circus, celebrating the heartbeat, everyday delights, and spirit of New York City with astounding talent from around the world, led by Brooklyn-born singer and Ringmaster Storm Marrero.

WHY WE LOVE IT: All your classic circus delights in a climate-controlled Big Top tent with tiered seating, perfect for families with young children.

WANT TO GO? $35 and up; free for children younger than 3 (on lap). 212-721-6500. bigapplecircus.com.

‘The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley’ WHEN: Jan. 25-Feb. 23, Saturdays, Sundays, and Feb. 21, see website for times WHERE: The Argyle Theatre, 34 W. Main St., Babylon Village AGES: All WHAT: The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley is filled with infectious songs and non-stop adventure, making this a perfect show to introduce young audiences to the magic of theatre. Sponsored

by Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Based on the best-selling book series, Stanley folds his way around the world with his flat-tastic hijinks!

WANT TO GO? $15. 631-230-3500. argyletheatre.com.

‘Thomas and Friends™: Explore the Rails’ WHEN: Jan. 18-May 10, 10am-5pm on operating days WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Climb aboard a large model of Thomas the Tank Engine, race trains along a giant track, work together to sort and load cargo, and maintain engines.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids engage in a variety of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) challenges in this exhibit, from a simple sorting and shape identification to more complex engineering obstacles.

WANT TO GO? $14; $13 seniors 65 and older; free for members.

516-224-5800. licm.org.

Tomatoland Popup WHEN: Through Jan. 25: Monday-Saturday, 12-8pm; Sunday, 12-7pm WHERE: Tomatoland, 484 Broome St., Soho, Manhattan AGES: 3 and older WHAT: The exhibition provides New Yorkers with view from a tomato’s perspective. The popup aims to remind New York residents to pay more attention to keeping a friendly environment while developing the city economy in the next decade.

WANT TO GO? $16-$22. 646-480-4849. thetomatoland.com.

Pow Comic Con WHEN: Jan. 25-26, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Brooklyn Expo Center, 72 Noble St., Greenpoint, Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Created by fans for fans, Pow Comic Con brings together the best in comic books, collectibles, gaming, sci-fi, fantasy, and more.

WANT TO GO? $20-$34. powcomiccon.com.

Big Apple Circus WHEN: Through Feb. 2: see website for showtimes WHERE: Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, Upper West Side, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: Catch the 42nd season of this world-renowned circus, celebrating the heartbeat, everyday delights, and spirit of NYC WANT TO GO? $35 and up; free for children younger than 3 (on lap). 212-721-6500. bigapplecircus.com.

NYC Events

WORTH THE TREK Cirque Mechanics’ 42FT WHEN: Through Jan. 5: see website for showtimes WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown, Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: With a brilliant blur of sequined stilts, feathered frocks, and flashing circus stripes, the endlessly inventive Cirque Mechanics upends expectations in a dizzying, dazzling array of acts.

WANT TO GO? $22 and up. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

‘Princess Particular’ WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2:30pm WHERE: The Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St., Long Island City, Queens AGES: All WHAT: Princess Particular is obsessed by her latest scheme to become a ballerina. Join perky palace-goers for pliés, pastries, and “toe food!”

WANT TO GO? $20 adults; $15 children younger than 17 (Family 4-pack for $40). 718-392-0722. secrettheatre.com.

Enroll Now

for 2020-2021 School Year

• LEADING CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL IN PLAINVIEW • YEAR ROUND & SCHOOL PROGRAMS FOR AGES 6 WEEKS THROUGH 5 YEARS OLD • FAMILIES OF ALL FAITHS AND BACKGROUNDS WELCOME • NEW YORK STATE CERTIFIED TEACHERS • ALL STAFF MEMBERS HAVE CPR AND FIRST AID TRAINING • LICENSED BY NEW YORK STATE & OFFICE OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES

Good Shepherd Lutheran School 99 Central Park Rd Plainview, NY 11803 (516) 349-1966

gsplainview.org Email: contact@gsplainview.org

LongIslandParent 27

Lunar New Year Celebration WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 8, 6-7pm WHERE: Freeport Public Library, 144 W. Merrick Road, Freeport AGES: 5-9 WHAT: Learn about the beautiful traditions and good luck symbols of the Lunar New Year. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $1. 516-379-3274. freeportlibrary.info.

Chinese Acrobat Li Liu FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2pm WHERE: Mineola Memorial Library, 195 Marcellus Road, Mineola AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with acrobat Li Liu as she performs amazing stunts and tricks, including balancing, plate spinning, and more! Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-746-8488. mineolalibrary.info.

Chinese New Year Vegan Style (Teen Edition) FREE

Holiday Fun Bayville Winter Wonderland WHEN: Through Jan. 1: see website for schedule WHERE: Bayville Adventure Park, 8 Bayville Ave., Bayville AGES: All WHAT: Be there for a spectacular display of holiday lights and other festive family attractions celebrating the holiday season.

WANT TO GO? $23.75; $20.75 children younger than 8; free for children younger than 12 months. 516-628-8697. bayvillewinterwonderland.com.

Animated Christmas Children’s Story FREE WHEN: Through Jan. 1: Saturday-Thursday, 8am-6pm; Friday, 8am-8pm WHERE: Hicks Nurseries, 100 Jericho Turnpike, Westbury AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy the animated Christmas children’s story all day every day. Admission is always free but Hicks Nurseries asks for the donation of a non-perishable food item to donate to the Long Island Cares food pantry.

WANT TO GO? 516-334-0066. hicksnurseries.com.

Magic of Lights WHEN: Through Jan. 4: Sunday-Thursday, 5-10pm; Friday and Saturday, 5-11pm WHERE: Jones Beach State Park, 1000 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh AGES: All WHAT: The magical route is overflowing with spectacular light displays that bring your favorite holiday themes and characters to life.

WANT TO GO? $20 per car. magicoflights.com.

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 2:30-4pm WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Celebrate Chinese New Year and the Year of the Rat the vegan way. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

Celebrate Lunar New Year with Chinese Dance FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 20, 11am-12pm WHERE: Syosset Public Library, 225 S. Oyster Bay Road, Syosset AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about several Chinese dance styles and interact with the artist by dancing with ribbons to celebrate Lunar New Year.

Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-921-7161. syossetlibrary.org.

Chinese New Year Cooking Program FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 23, 7-8pm WHERE: Glen Cove Library, 4 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Cove AGES: 12 and older WHAT: Learn a little about Chinese New Year and make your own traditional fried rice to take home.

WANT TO GO? 516-676-2130. glencovelibrary.org.

Chinese New Year Tea Light Holder FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 2-3pm WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Make a beautiful Chinese New Year Tea Light Holder to celebrate the Chinese New Year! Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

Family Program Lunar New Year Celebration! FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 2-3pm WHERE: Glen Cove Library, 4 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Cove AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Design a paper lantern and a dragon, and try your hand at Chinese calligraphy as you learn to write “whale” in Chinese!

WANT TO GO? 516-676-2130. glencovelibrary.org.

Nature Lovers First Day Hike New Years Day Seal Walks FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 1, 1:30-4pm WHERE: Jones Beach State Park, 1 Ocean Parkway, Field 10, Wantagh AGES: All WHAT: Welcome 2020 by taking a stroll. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-780-3295. parks.ny.gov.

BETTER SAVE GRADES WITH $100* HUNTINGTON! OUR STUDENTS INCREASE

2+ GRADE LEVELS

IN THREE MONTHS ON AVERAGE**

Birds & Dinos - Hi Cuz! (Family) WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching and Learning-Tanglewood Preserve, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Center AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Learn all about the descendants of dinosaurs and how this connection helps us understand how they may have lived.

WANT TO GO? $9. 516-764-0045. cstl.org.

Winter Bird Walk WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 2-3pm WHERE: Garvies Point Museum, 50 Barry Drive, Glen Cove AGES: All WHAT: Many species of birds live on the museum’s preserve yearround! Join a Garvies naturalist on a walk to observe these residents.

WANT TO GO? $4; $2 children 5-12 years. 516-571-8010. garviespointmuseum.com.

TUTORING Reading - Writing - Math - Study Skills - Vocabulary - Phonics ADHD - Algebra - Geometry - Trigonometry - Pre-Calculus - Calculus Earth Science - Biology - Chemistry - Physics TEST PREP SAT - ACT - State Tests - Advanced Placement (AP) SSAT - ISEE - SHSAT - TACHS - HSPT - ASVAB BALDWIN 516-867-4041 MANHASSET 516-365-4455

CARLE PLACE 516-747-5600

FLUSHING 718-358-7900

MASSAPEQUA PARK 516-799-9500

LYNBROOK 516-568-1900 PLAINVIEW 516-681-0400

CALL 1-800 CAN LEARN HuntingtonHelps.com ©2020 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. *Offer valid for Academic Evaluation, new students only. Not valid with any other offer. **Grade level results are based on cumulative average grade level increases in reading and math for 17,445 students from 2010 to 2014 using the full set of available student data. SAT is a registered trademark of College Board. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. None of these entities endorses or was involved in the production of the program.

Special Needs For Children With Special Needs: Sensory-Friendly Family Movie FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 4, 10:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Bethpage Library, 47 Powell Ave., Bethpage AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a movie in a theater with the lights turned up and the sound turned down.

WANT TO GO? 516-931-3907. bethpagelibrary.info.

Sensory Sensitive Sundays WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 5, 9-11am WHERE: Chuck E. Cheese’s, 162 Fulton Ave., Hempstead AGES: All WHAT: The facility reduces the lighting and noise, and the time includes food and games and a trained staff.

WANT TO GO? Cost varies. 516-483-3166. chuckecheese.com.

Music Exploration FREE WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 19, 10-10:45am WHERE: Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh AGES: 4-10 WHAT: Help Hope and The Smiles Foundation will be hosting a special needs/autism friendly music workshop. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-221-1200. wantaghlibrary.org.

LongIslandParent 29

Under The Sea Adventure WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 5, 4:30-6:30pm WHERE: Lolli Bop Cafe & Play, 398 Central Ave., Lawrence AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Hang out with your favorite under water princess!

Includes face painting, arts and crafts, meet and greets, photo opportunities, games, songs, and open play. Reservations required.

WANT TO GO? $25. 516-341-7777. lollibopkids.com.

‘The Magic of Alexo’

Theater, Concerts, & Movies Kids Movie: ‘Abominable’ FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 12, 12pm WHERE: The Showplace at Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore AGES: All WHAT: Alexo brings his mind-blowing, audience-engaging presentations to create a memorable experience for all involved.

WANT TO GO? $12. 516-599-6870. plazatheatrical.com.

Family Movie Matinee: ‘Toy Story 4’ FREE

WHEN: Friday, Jan. 3, 2-4pm WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees AGES: All WHAT: See a movie at the library with your friends.

WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 12, 2pm WHERE: Floral Park Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: All WHAT: Join the library for tasty snacks and Toy Story 4 (rated G), the hilarious adventure of Woody, Buzz, and the gang!

WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

‘Frosty the Snowman’

Jungle Bungle Friends FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 4, 2pm WHERE: BroadHollow Theatre at Elmont, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: All WHAT: Frosty and his friend Jenny must save the town of Chillsville.

WANT TO GO? $13; $11 in advance. 516-775-4420. broadhollow.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 19, 2-2:45pm WHERE: Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh AGES: Newborn to 6 WHAT: Families will enjoy guitar sing-alongs, animal puppets, and more. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-221-1200. wantaghlibrary.org.

‘Elf Jr.’

Beauty’s Enchanted Tea Party presented by Royal Princess Prep Party Company!

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 4, 2pm WHERE: The Merrick Theatre And Center For The Arts, 2222 Hewlett Ave., Merrick AGES: All WHAT: See this musical based on the classic holiday film.

WANT TO GO? $15. 516-868-6400. merrick-theatre.com.

A Fairy Tale Winter

WHEN: Monday, Jan. 20, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Chat Noir, 230 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre AGES: All WHAT: “Be our guest” at Beauty’s Enchanted Tea Party complete with a story-time and sing-along, and plenty of photo opps!

WANT TO GO? $35. 516-639-3939. royalprincessprep.com.

WHEN: Through Jan. 5: see website for schedule WHERE: The Showplace at Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore AGES: All WHAT: Cinderella and Snow White are preparing for the Crystal Ball!

WANT TO GO? $12. 516-599-6870. plazatheatrical.com.

Teen Karaoke Night FREE

Princess Breakfast

Toddler Drive-In Movie FREE

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 5, 9-11am WHERE: Glen Cove Mansion, 200 Dosoris Lane, Glen Cove AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Enjoy a breakfast buffet with Beauty and The Snow Queen.

WANT TO GO? $40; $29 children 3-12. 516-671-6400. glencovemansion.com.

WHEN: Monday, Jan. 27, 4:30-5:15pm WHERE: Mineola Memorial Library, 195 Marcellus Road, Mineola AGES: 18 months to 5 years WHAT: Decorate a “car,” then watch a short movie and enjoy snacks. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-746-8488. mineolalibrary.info.

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 23, 3-5pm WHERE: Mineola Memorial Library, 195 Marcellus Road, Mineola AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Everyone’s a star at karaoke. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-746-8488. mineolalibrary.info.

Monster Jam WHEN: Jan. 31-Feb. 2, Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 1pm and 7pm; Sunday, 1pm WHERE: NYCB LIVE, Home of The Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale AGES: All WHAT: See skilled athletes compete head-to-head in Monster Jam trucks, speedsters and ATVs, tearing up the dirt in Freestyle, 2 Wheel Skills Challenge™, and several racing competitions.

WANT TO GO? $20-$95. 516-231-4848. nycblive.com.

LIU POSTʼS CENTER FOR GIFTED YOUTH SPRING 2020 AND SUMMER 2020 PROGRAMS

Are You the Parent of a Gifted Child?

LIU Post’s Center for Gifted Youth announces its 40th annual program for gifted children. The spring program runs Saturdays from Feb. 1, 2020 to April 25, 2020 and the summer program runs Monday to Friday from July 6 to July 30, 2020. The spring program is open to gifted children K-8 and the summer program is open to gifted children 2-8. The program expands studentsʼ knowledge, develops creative and critical thinking skills, and offers children the opportunity to learn in an exciting and accepting environment.

INQUIRE ABOUT TRANSPORTATION!

‘Cinderella’ WHEN: Jan. 11-Feb. 15, Saturdays, 2pm WHERE: The Merrick Theatre And Center For The Arts, 2222 Hewlett Ave., Merrick AGES: All WHAT: See this classic fairy tale come to life on stage.

WANT TO GO? $15. 516-868-6400. merrick-theatre.com.

‘The Little Mermaid’ WHEN: Jan. 19-Feb. 23, Jan. 19 and Feb. 23, 11am; Feb. 1, 2pm WHERE: BroadHollow Theatre at Elmont, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: All WHAT: Journey “under the sea” with Ariel and her aquatic friends.

WANT TO GO? $13; $11 in advance. 516-775-4420. broadhollow.org.

Fairs, Festivals, & Markets

Admission is highly selective and enrollment is limited.

Feb. 1, 2020 - April 25, 2020 July 6 - July 30, 2020

For information call 516-299-2160 liu.edu/post/giftedyouth Now find us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter

LIU Post • School of Professional Studies • 720 Northern Blvd. • Brookville, NY 11548-1300 liu.edu/post/giftedyouth • Dr. Lynne Manouvrier, Director

Dobby’s Sock Drive FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 2, 10am-9pm WHERE: Mineola Memorial Library, 195 Marcellus Road, Mineola AGES: All WHAT: Harry Potter’s sock was enough to free Dobby the House Elf, and you can help others in need too! The library will be collecting and donating new, packaged socks.

WANT TO GO? 516-746-8488. mineolalibrary.info.

Sesame Street’s 50th Anniversary Celebration FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 21, 4:15-5:15pm WHERE: Mineola Memorial Library, 195 Marcellus Road, Mineola AGES: 1½-6 WHAT: Join the library for stories, songs, crafts, and cookies to celebrate this milestone! Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-746-8488. mineolalibrary.info.

Friends of the FP Library Book Sale FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 9am-4pm WHERE: Floral Park Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: All WHAT: The sale is sponsored by Friends of the Floral Park Library.

WANT TO GO? Admission is free; prices vary for goods. 516-3266330. floralparklibrary.org.

After School Classes & Programs - Grades K-12

Mathematics • Physics • Robotics • STEAM Coding • Test Prep • Homework Help • Private Tutoring And College Prep Programs - AP classes and tutoring

Our advanced curriculum provides deeper understanding of concepts and development of logic and creative problem solving.

Art, Music, Chess, Dance, Sports and Foreign Language classes are also available!

Contact us today

www.rosalynacademicprograms.com 20 Roosevelt Ave. Roslyn, NY (516) 484-1789 LongIslandParent 31

Sunday Science – Unusual Transportation!

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 5, 2:30pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching and Learning-Tanglewood Preserve, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Center AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids will be challenged to create and design vehicles from provided materials, and have a whole lot of fun doing it!

WANT TO GO? $14. 516-764-0045. cstl.org.

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation for Teens FREE

Educational Activities Code your Own Spaceship with Tynker Space Quest FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 1, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Microsoft Store - Roosevelt Field, 630 Old Country Road, Space #1140A, Garden City AGES: 6-17 WHAT: Students use beginner-friendly coding puzzles to guide your character in space. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-368-0060. microsoft.com.

Tynker Solar System FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 2, 11am-1pm WHERE: Microsoft Store - Roosevelt Field, 630 Old Country Road, Garden City AGES: 10-17 WHAT: Celebrate computer science education with this free twohour workshop where girls use block coding to program a moving model of the Solar System with Tynker. RSVP online.

WANT TO GO? 516-742-8001. microsoft.com.

Code Your Own Football Game with MakeCode Arcade FREE WHEN: Jan. 2-4, Tuesday, 3-5pm; Saturday, 12-2pm WHERE: Microsoft Store - Roosevelt Field, 630 Old Country Road Space, #1140A, Garden City AGES: 8-17 WHAT: Students will use block coding to create a football-themed video game with MakeCode Arcade. RSVP online.

WANT TO GO? 516-368-0060. microsoft.com.

Code Your Own Video Game with MakeCode Arcade FREE WHEN: Jan. 1-3, Wednesday, 2-4pm; Friday, 12-2pm WHERE: Microsoft Store - Roosevelt Field, 630 Old Country Road, Space #1140A, Garden City AGES: 8-17 WHAT: Students will use block coding to create a video game with MakeCode Arcade. RSVP online.

WANT TO GO? 516-368-0060. microsoft.com.

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WHEN: Monday, Jan. 6, 7-8pm WHERE: Syosset Public Library, 225 S. Oyster Bay Road, Syosset AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Investigate 3-D imagery, hidden messages, extract DNA, measure pH levels, and solve a mystery. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-921-7161. syossetlibrary.org.

Peppa Pig Storytime and Craft FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 10, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: Glen Cove Library, 4 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Cove AGES: 2-5 WHAT: Celebrate Peppa’s birthday in style!

WANT TO GO? 516-676-2130. glencovelibrary.org.

SAT or ACT Practice Exam FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 1-4:30pm WHERE: Syosset Public Library, 225 S. Oyster Bay Road, Syosset AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Choose which full-length practice exam you want to take.

Score reports will be emailed.

WANT TO GO? 516-921-7161. syossetlibrary.org.

Get Creative with 3D in Windows 10 FREE WHEN: Jan. 5-12, Jan. 5, Jan. 11, and Jan. 12, 12-2pm WHERE: Microsoft Store - Roosevelt Field, 630 Old Country Road Space, #1140A, Garden City AGES: 8-17 WHAT: Students will learn about Dr. King’s legacy and expand their creative horizons by creating 3-D paint artwork. RSVP online.

WANT TO GO? 516-368-0060. microsoft.com.

STEM Explorers – Surrounded by Stem WHEN: Jan. 11-12, 11am-3pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Join the Green Teens in a weekend filled with hands-on activities and demonstrations by STEM professionals.

WANT TO GO? $14; $13 seniors 65 and older; free for members.

516-224-5800. licm.org.

Easy Bake Oven Chemistry FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 13, 5-6pm WHERE: Mineola Memorial Library, 195 Marcellus Road, Mineola AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn how chemical reactions work with Easy Bake Ovens WANT TO GO? 516-746-8488. mineolalibrary.info.

‘Frozen’–Family Science Night WHEN: Friday, Jan. 17, 5-8pm WHERE: Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City AGES: All WHAT: Make messes, conduct experiments, and learn STEM skills— all in a wintry wonderland.

WANT TO GO? $15 admission in advance with pizza and drink; $10 members pizza and drink; $10 admission only. 516-572-4111. cradleofaviation.org.

Sunday Science - Lithographic Printing!

WHEN: Jan. 19, 2:30pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching and Learning-Tanglewood Preserve, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Center AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn all about lithographic printing.

WANT TO GO? $14. 516-764-0045. cstl.org.

School’s Out! MLK Day WHEN: Monday, Jan. 20, 9am-5pm WHERE: Center for Science Teaching and Learning-Tanglewood Preserve, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Center AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids spend the day exploring nature, meeting animals, conducting experiments, and more.

WANT TO GO? $70; $60 if paid 48 hours before program. 516-7640045. cstl.org.

Coding Workshop FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 21, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Glen Cove Library, 4 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Cove AGES: 12-17 WHAT: Take a beginner’s class on coding and work on a fun project.

WANT TO GO? 516-676-2130. glencovelibrary.org.

PlayHooray Kids FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 24, 12:30-1:15pm WHERE: Floral Park Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: 6 months to 4 years WHAT: Music, movement, and fun! Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

Electronics: Building with Snap Circuits, Jr. FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 30, 4:15-5:15pm WHERE: Mineola Memorial Library, 195 Marcellus Road, Mineola AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn how to build different projects! Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-746-8488. mineolalibrary.info.

Tiny Tots WHEN: Jan. 2-16 and 23-30, Mondays and Thursdays, 9:30-11am WHERE: Center for Science Teaching and Learning-Tanglewood Preserve, 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Center AGES: 1½-3 WHAT: Introduce your toddler to a variety of science topics.

WANT TO GO? $8. 516-764-0045. cstl.org.

St. Dominic Elementary School O N E J O U R N E Y T H R O U G H FA I T H & E D U C AT I O N Pre-K Early Childhood Development • Montessori based program

Elementary (K-5) • Age-Appropriate Core Curriculum with Extensive Enrichment Programs

Middle School (6-8) • Algebra and Living Environment Regents • Dolan Campus Science & Communications Center • State of the Art Science Labs • Multimedia Production Studio • Competitive Athletics • Enrichment Programs

Visit Our Open House: January 26th 11:00am - 1:00pm 516.922.4233 www.STDOMSOB.ORG 35 School Street, Oyster Bay NY 11771

LongIslandParent 33

Mother-Daughter Craft FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 6, 6:30pm WHERE: Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square AGES: 7-12 WHAT: Daughters will work together with their mothers to create some special crafts. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-488-3444. franklinsquarepl.org.

StoryCraft FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 6, 4:30-5:15pm WHERE: Floral Park Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Read a story and make a craft.

WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

Little Makers Little Brushes: Ocean Adventure WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 2, 3-5pm WHERE: Pinot’s Palette - East Meadow, 2557 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids will love this fun, colorful ocean scene almost as much as they’ll love personalizing it with their names!

WANT TO GO? $38. 516-390-8740. pinotspalette.com.

Sharpie Mugs FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 2, 7-8pm WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Create a DIY sharpie mug! Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

Little Brushes: Snowman’s Best Friend WHEN: Friday, Jan. 3, 4-6pm WHERE: Pinot’s Palette - East Meadow, 2557 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids will have fun while creating this whimsical painting.

WANT TO GO? $38. 516-390-8740. pinotspalette.com.

Mini Hockey Game FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 4, 9am-12pm WHERE: Home Depot, 600 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Your child will create their own game. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-488-8500. homedepot.com.

Crafts for Kids: Dancing Robot FREE WHEN: Jan. 4-5, 11am-3pm WHERE: Lakeshore Learning Store, 2079 Hillside Ave., New Hyde Park AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Visit the store and make a fun dancing robot to take home.

WANT TO GO? 516-616-9360. lakeshorelearning.com.

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Dagger, Dog Vinci FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 7, 4-5pm WHERE: Syosset Public Library, 225 S. Oyster Bay Road, Syosset AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Artist Yvonne Dagger will share the journey of her pet, Dagger, from therapy dog to famous canine artist and kids will get to paint their own painting. Please dress for a mess. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-921-7161. syossetlibrary.org.

Hot Chocolate Social FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 9, 3-4:30pm WHERE: Mineola Memorial Library, 195 Marcellus Road, Mineola AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Decorate a glass mug with an engraving of your design and enjoy some hot chocolate on the house! Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-746-8488. mineolalibrary.info.

Just 2 Fun FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 10, 10:30am WHERE: Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road, Franklin Square AGES: 2 WHAT: A special program designed for toddlers where they make simple crafts and play together. Registration required WANT TO GO? 516-488-3444. franklinsquarepl.org.

Crafts for Kids: Kid-Powered Boat FREE WHEN: Jan. 11-12, 11am-3pm WHERE: Lakeshore Learning Store, 2079 Hillside Ave., New Hyde Park AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Visit the store and make kid-powered boat to take home.

WANT TO GO? 516-616-9360. lakeshorelearning.com.

Thanking Our First Responders FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 7-8pm WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Teens will make a one-of-a-kind item to donate as a special thank you to a local police station. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

Tissue Paper Art FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 4:15-5pm WHERE: Floral Park Library, 17 Caroline Place, Floral Park AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Create a masterpiece with a canvas, tissue paper, glue, and water. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-326-6330. floralparklibrary.org.

Crafts for Kids: Fast-Flying Glider FREE WHEN: Jan. 18-19, 11am-3pm WHERE: Lakeshore Learning Store, 2079 Hillside Ave., New Hyde Park AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Visit the store and make a fast-flying glider to take home.

WANT TO GO? 516-616-9360. lakeshorelearning.com.

Winter Scene Canvas FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 21, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Island Trees Public Library, 38 Farmedge Road, Island Trees AGES: 5-10 WHAT: Create a frosty forest scene on an 8x10 canvas.

Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 516-731-2211. islandtreespubliclibrary.org.

Crafts for Kids: Off to the Races! Car FREE WHEN: Jan. 25-26, 11am-3pm WHERE: Lakeshore Learning Store, 2079 Hillside Ave., New Hyde Park AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Visit the store and make a car that really moves to take home.

WANT TO GO? 516-616-9360. lakeshorelearning.com.

Family Sundays WHEN: Jan. 5-26, Sundays, family tour at 1pm; drop in between 1:30-4pm

WHERE: Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Reconnect while talking about and making art together.

WANT TO GO? $3 materials fee per child for non-members plus admission: $12; $8 seniors 62 and older; $4 children ages 4-12 and students with valid photo ID; free for members and children younger than 4. 516484-9337. nassaumuseum.org.

Winter Crafts FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 28, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Glen Cove Library, 4 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Cove AGES: 5-10 WHAT: Come in out of the cold, and make some fun wintry crafts.

WANT TO GO? 516-676-2130. glencovelibrary.org.

Healthy Kids in the Kitchen

11:30am-12pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Little chefs use real cooking tools as they make healthy and yummy, kid-friendly snacks from start to finish.

WANT TO GO? $5 plus admission: $14; $13 seniors 65 and older; free for members.

516-224-5800. licm.org.

WHEN: Jan. 3-31, Fridays,

Providing Services for over 50 Years

The Hagedorn Little Village School, Jack Joel Center for Special Children (HLVS), is a not-for-profit program that provides services for infants and children up to 11 years of age with learning, language, and social delays, motor impairments, and autism with no direct cost to families:

• Evaluations • Early Intervention (Birth–3) • SEIT • CSE Itinerant Services • ABA Home Programs

Related Services: • Speech • OT/PT • Parent Training • Family Support Services

Special Ed Classes: • Preschool (3-5) • School age (5-11) • Inclusion

750 Hicksville Road Seaford, NY 11783 516.520.6000 • littlevillage.org

Funded and regulated by Nassau County (NCDOH) and Suffolk County (SCDOH) Departments of Heath, NYS, NYS ED Department Early intervention (EI) and Committee for Preschool Special Education (CPSE) services are for children who have or are suspected of having a developmental delay or disability. Evaluations must be referred by NCDOH/SCDOH for EI and/or to the local school district for CPSE. Services are provided based on an individual child’s elegibility as established by NYS DOH and/or NYS ED department and local government at no direct cost to parents.

Parents are responsible for fees/costs associated with childcare.

LongIslandParent 35

social media

What’s the Big Deal About TikTok? A primer for parents whose kids are captivated

By Melissa Wickes

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

T

ikTok has been downloaded more than 1 billion times in 2 years. Its short videos are mesmerizing kids, teens, and even adults all over the world. In fact, TikTok is one of the fastest-growing and most popular apps in the world, according to Business Insider. But like any exploding craze, there are questions, hiccups, and concerns—especially among parents. We spoke with social media experts and the parents of kids swiping through every day to understand why the app is consuming a generation.

What is TikTok? TikTok is a short-form video-sharing app similar to (the nowdefunct) Vine, with videos ranging from 5 seconds to 1 minute, according to Rafael Sales, data strategist at Sparkloft Media, a social media creative agency. Users scrolling through can find comedy, music, dance, and drama. Martin Stoll, CEO of Sparkloft Media and father of a 12-year-old and 10-year-old, explains that because TikTok is a very visual platform, it is perfectly suited to a younger audience. Think about it: What is more entertaining to a 10-year-old than 30-second videos you can react to with a sticker? Brands are even using it as a marketing tool: For example, Nike in Milan worked with athletes and TikTok influencers to create three challenges encouraging girls to show off their sports skills. The challenges garnered more than 100 million views and 540,000 likes—and inspired 46,000 usergenerated routines in response.

Why is it so popular?

One very obvious reason the app has become a worldwide sensation is, simply, because it’s entertaining. The short videos will make you laugh, sing, and mimic the creativity of others. As a result, its content is spreading like wildfire.

TikTok has also gained followers for its ability to hook into its users’ preferences using an algorithm: If you like “challenges” where people mimic choreography to a Mariah Carey song, for example, the app will continue to feed you similar videos.

“TikTok will quickly adapt to your taste to offer the most relevant, interesting, fun, quirky, head-turning videos that you’ll never want to stop watching,” according to the company.

The strength of this algorithm has its pros and cons. On the one hand, once the app gets to know your 13-year-old daughter, she will likely be consuming content that is suited for her (rather than, say, sexually explicit dance moves and cursing that is not). On the other hand, if your son is participating in a viral challenge and his account is public, his video may be seen by millions of people whom TikTok has also targeted as interested in that content.

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Controversy and Concerns Any product that takes off this quickly doesn’t do so without a hitch. So far there has been controversy due to TikTok’s Chinese roots and the rumor that it is being used as a “giant data vacuum” by China, according to Stoll. The company was also accused of censoring political content. Individuals have claimed their accounts were suspended for posting videos related to the Hong Kong protests and Chinese detention camps, according to The Washington Post. U.S. senators are investigating these allegations and TikTok has made official statements regarding the concern, claiming it’s committed to earning the trust of its users and happy to participate in any investigations.

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Should your teens TikTok? Luckily for parents, there are privacy and safety settings, as well as Screen Time Management and Restricted Mode options, according to Sierra Filucci, editorial director of Common Sense Media and mother of a 15-year-old. Parents can set these using a passcode.

TikTok also requires users to be at least 13 years old and receive a guardian’s approval if they are younger than 18.

Filucci, however, thinks parents should get to know the app before allowing access. “If parents are more hands-on, monitoring what kids are doing, have checked out the app, and feel comfortable with the content they see, then they can make the determination of whether or not their kid is ready for it,” she says. “I’m comfortable with my 15-year-old using TikTok because we talk about it a lot, I have a lot of visibility, and cursing isn’t a problem for me. It may be for other parents.”

Like with any social media, parents should have a conversation about TikTok and the responsibilities involved with posting on the internet, Stoll suggests. If safety boundaries are set, you familiarize yourself with the app, and you direct the conversation toward opinion rather than judgment, the app can open the door to laughter, bonding with your kids, and even creativity.

“Sometimes [my 15-year-old daughter and I] just lay on the bed and scroll through,” Filucci says. “I think it shows her I’m not dismissive of this thing she loves and that I can laugh along with her to the funny things.”

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LongIslandParent 37

kid’s life

Is Your Child Being Cyberbullied?

Learn how to read the signs, and how to help

By Emma Steven

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

N

ow that our kids are interacting on the Internet more than ever, the age-old act of bullying has gone from the playground to online. According to the Cyber Bullying Research Center, 36.5 percent of children aged 12-17 years old say they have been cyberbullied.

While there are now apps like mSpy that allow parents to monitor their child’s communication online, it’s difficult to predict or prevent a child from being a target.

Know the Warning Signs There are, however, some important things to look for so you can stay alert and offer support.

Stopping or starting social media accounts: If you notice your child is suddenly using her phone (or other devices) more or less than usual, take note—especially if she is wary to discuss it. Another important red flag is if she shuts down existing social media accounts and/or open new ones.

“If you see that your kid is not interested in their phone, that’s a big sign,” says Ross Ellis, founder and CEO of STOMP Out Bullying, the leading bullying prevention nonprofit.

Emotional texting: Does he get upset or angry when a text or email comes in? Does he laugh hysterically at something but won’t explain why? It’s important to pay attention to unusual emotional reactions to online communication—it could mean your child is feeling uncomfortable with something that’s developing.

Mood swings: Kids who are being cyberbullied often become withdrawn and depressed, and lose interest in activities, Ellis says. She can also become angry or anxious or complain of feeling ill more often. Take any change in mood seriously.

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Behavioral changes: Ellis also recommends looking out for a decline in grades, or changes in eating and sleeping habits.

Your child may also change his route home from school or start refusing to go to school all together.

Secrecy: Tweens and teens are notoriously private but it’s wise to start investigating if your child starts to seem much more concerned about hiding her screen.

Avoiding friends: If your child suddenly wants to avoid certain social situations, like hanging out with a specific group of friends, or doing a certain activity, he may be being bullied, Ellis says.

How You Can Help If you think your child might be a victim, it’s important to offer her support—but approach it delicately. Ellis recommends talking in general terms rather than asking directly. For example: “I’m reading a lot about cyberbullying and bullying and it’s really happening a lot. Does it happen at your school?

Do you know anyone it’s happening to?” Even if she doesn’t open up, it’s important to reinforce that you are there for her.

If you find out he is being cyberbullied, stopbullying.gov recommends keeping a record and screenshots, then reporting directly to the social media platform as well as your child’s school. If your child is receiving threats of violence or worse, or if a crime or illegal behavior is happening, report it to the police.

Finally, make sure your child knows the rules of the cyber road. “A parent has to be computer savvy,” Ellis says. “You have to communicate with your kids constantly. It’s not a onetime conversation. Parents need to raise responsible digital citizens because if they don’t, there’s a possibility their kids are going to bully someone, or they will be bullied.”

For more help and support, visit stompoutbullying.org and staysafeonline.org.

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12/10/19 12:06 PM

PARTY

C e n tr a l

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

Party Entertainment Clowns.com

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

Dynamic Beat Productions

Long Island, New York, and the Tristate area 631-399-6942 dynamicbeat.com dynamicbeat@optonline.net Your special event needs just the right mix of creativity, energy, and professionalism to get the celebration started. Dynamic Beat Entertainment has been making events memorable for 20 years. Our services include DJ, lighting, photo booths, lounge decor, and video production.

Erik’s Reptile Edventure

P.O. Box 612, Middle Island 631-335-9308 edventureshow.com edventures1@yahoo.com Have a World of Reptiles Party featuring 12 animals from all around the world! Wildlife education and fun with live reptiles and museum animals. We are ready to make your party an unforgettable event!

Kids Party with Ruby

646-683-1881 kidspartywithruby.com ruby@kidspartywithruby.com Kids Party with Ruby offers party planning assistance, kids party entertainment packages, bounce houses, balloon decorations, and party favors! We bring everything to your party to ensure all the kids have a fun and unforgettable experience.

Party Places As You Wish Parties

418A Bedford Ave., Bellmore 516-590-7878 asyouwishparties.org As You Wish Parties will make your child’s party dreams come true. Themes include Pretty Princess, Knightly Knights,

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Traditional Tea, PJ Party, Rock Star and Superheroes, Dessert Party, or Kids Canvas Painting.

BACH TO ROCK Music School

1015 Port Washington Blvd., Port Washington 516-441-5526 portwashington.bachtorock.com portwashington@bachtorock.com Be a star at B2R! At Bach To Rock music school, our parties will have everyone recording in a state-of-the-art studio with pro engineers. Choose from current pop and classic rock tunes, then sing on the main stage and enjoy pizza and cake!

Be The Best Sport

30 Beechwood Ave., Port Washington 516-453-0990 bethebestsport.org info@bethebestsport.org Be The Best Sport provides sport birthday parties for children with special needs.

Our qualified staff will make sure your son or daughter has a once in a lifetime experience! Please contact us to inquire about a birthday party!

BounceU Farmingdale

101 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale 631-777-JUMP (5867) bounceu.com/cities/farmingdale.ny farmingdale.ny@bounceu.com BounceU Farmingdale was voted “Best of Long Island” for Children’s Party Place and Family Amusement Center. We provide the ideal combination of inflatable structures, a clean environment, incredible customer service, and non-stop excitement in a private party atmosphere.

Celebrations In The Kitchen

63 E. Old Country Road, Hicksville 516-396-2193 celebrationsinthekitchen.com celebrationsinthekitchen@gmail.com The most unique, fun-filled, joyous event!

We have created a true baking experience for everyone to enjoy, including sugar cookie baking, all about pizza, cupcakes from scratch, doughnuts, chocolate and candy projects. Come in, call, or visit celebrationsinthekitchen.com for more information on parties.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor 516-692-6768 cshfha.org

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

steved@cshfha.org Celebrate your child’s next birthday at the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium! See the Hatchery & Aquarium’s exciting live exhibits. Feed the hungry trout and learn about fish, reptiles, and amphibians with an up-close animal encounter.

Gold Medal Gymnastics Centers

Nassau: 1100 Stewart Ave, Garden City 516-357-3636 gardencity@gmgc.com 210 Gardiners Ave., Levittown 516-735-4653 levittown@gmgc.com gmgc.com Long Island’s leading gymnastics center, “Where Every Child is a Champion” since 1973. Island-wide with six locations and fully certified instructors. We offer action-packed birthday parties!

Grady edu

1399 Jerusalem Ave., N. Merrick 516-401-4100 gradyedu.com parties@gradyedu.com Grady edu offers educational birthday parties with custom culinary workshops, a fashion design pajama party, or girl day jewelry making pamper day.

Gravity Vault Melville Indoor Rock Gym

Kiddie Playland

310 Hillside Ave., Williston Park 516-294-0111 kiddieplayland.com Celebrate your child’s special day at our eco-friendly indoor play space and enjoy watching your child have lots of fun. Three packages available with free invitations, pizza and drinks, play time, games, and dancing!

The Lanyard Ladies

433 Merrick Road, Oceanside 516-578-2248 thelanyardladies.com info@thelanyardladies.com The Lanyard Ladies friendship bracelet and lanyard birthday parties bring the party to you, or you can come to their brand-new party place! Many amazing themes and packages to choose from.

The Little Ladies Club

246 W. Old Country Road, Hicksville 516-939-CLUB (2582) thelittleladiesclub.com party@thelittleladiesclub.com The Little Ladies Club has been providing glamorous makeover parties for girls since 1998! Her Majesty will be sure to receive the royal treatment!

Long Island Aquarium

40 Melville Park Road 516-777-9255 gravityvault.com/locations/melville-ny melville@gravityvault.com Climbing is a great way to celebrate your birthday! Our awesome climbing parties give kids an exciting day they will never forget! Offering different party package options to accommodate your needs.

431 E. Main St., Riverhead 631-208-9200 xH20 (426), 631-208-9200 x125 longislandaquarium.com Have your child’s birthday party at the Long Island Aquarium. Party options include a choice of private rooms, select food items, and an ice cream cake. All parties get a guided tour, special seating at the Sea Lion Show, and rides on the submarine simulator!

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Long Island Nets

Pier 86, W. 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue, Manhattan 646-381-5010 intrepidmuseum.org groupsales@intrepidmuseum.org Celebrate your child’s birthday with a one-of-a-kind party! The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum will captivate groups of all ages and interests. Choose from exciting themes, value packages, and customization options to create a birthday adventure they’ll remember forever!

Key to My Art, Inc.

10 W. Oak St., Amityville 131 Main St., East Rockaway 877-539-2278 keytomyart.com At Key to My Art, our children’s paint parties include all supplies from aprons to easels. The guest of honor picks the theme, we provide the instruction, and each guest leaves with a finished painting!

NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale longisland.gleague.nba.com Long Island Nets birthday party packages are a great way to celebrate your next birthday. Receive exclusive gear and birthday shout outs.

M.A.T.S.S. Kid’s Gym & Early Childcare Education Center

A Rainbow of Programs Under One Roof!

2629 Grand Ave., Bellmore 516-221-1330 171 Eileen Way, Syosset 516-496-7765 matsskidsgym.com corporate@matsskidsgym.com M.A.T.S.S. Kids’ Gym offers a rainbow of themes and activities that will make your child’s next birthday party the ultimate celebration of their special day!

Main St. Board Game Cafe - Unplug Your Game

307 Main St., Huntington 631-729-0060 mainstboardgamecafe.com/reservation info@mainstboardgamecafe.com Unplug your game! Main St. Board Game Cafe hosts parties for kids, tweens, and teens. Supervised by our staff of board game experts, our parties are a fun yet enriching experience for your next birthday or event.

516-597-5193 1 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park 516-519-8787 3194 Lawson Blvd., Oceanside 516-442-2825 570 Main St., Westbury 516-876-0848 saf-t-swim.com Saf-T-Swim pool parties are never rained out! Our year-round parties include 24 guests, a private party room, pool time, lifeguard, invitations, and pizza.

Monster Mini Golf

Social Play Haus

410-C Commack Road, Deer Park 631-940-8900 monsterminigolf.com/locations/ deer-park All birthday packages include 90 minutes in a haunted mansion-themed private party room and a dedicated party host.

Guests will play a round of golf under black lights with monster-themed decor featuring fun-loving, animated monsters.

My Gym Children’s Fitness Center

1320 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook 631-751-KIDS (5437) mygym.com/stonybrook 128 W Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station 631-427-GYMS (4967) mygym.com/huntingtonstation Great South Bay Shopping Center 985 W. Montauk Highway, West Babylon 631-314-GYMS (4967) mygym.com/babylon At My Gym the goal is to make your party an amazing, customized celebration. You will have exclusive use of the entire gym with a rock wall, trampoline, trapeze, climbing structures, and slides.

Northwell Health Ice Center

200 Express St., Plainview 516-200-6444 socialplayhaus.com; info@socialplayhaus.com Social Play Haus is the newest and hippest cafe and event space created for modern families on Long Island. We specialize in first birthday celebrations, birthdays, showers, baptisms, reveals, fundraisers, and corporate events.

Sugar Factory - Meatpacking District 835 Washington St. Sugar Factory - The Row 700 8th Ave. Sugar Factory - Upper West Side 1991 Broadway 212-414-8700 sugarfactory.com sfny@sugarfactory.com Party where the stars play! Here at The Sugar Factory, we offer pre-fixed and customizable party packages for any celebration and budget! From private large-scale events to private dinners for two, a Sugar Factory celebration is one you will never forget!

Not Just Art

30 Beechwood Ave., Port Washington 516-767-7675 unlimitedsportsaction.com info@unlimitedsportsaction.com Unlimited Sports Action offers sports birthdays for ages 2 and older. Our parties offer one hour of sports and activities on a climate-controlled turf field, followed by 30 minutes of food, drinks, and birthday cake in a private room.

Nassau: 2050 Bellmore Ave., Bellmore 516-557-2114 625 Merrick Ave., East Meadow 516-538-6900 Located inside New York Sports Club 210 Gardiners Ave., Levittown

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Topics for Girls

Topics for Parents

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Don’t Stop Me Now (Leadership Skills)

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Upcoming Events And Opportunities Bold Future Leaders Program Leadership and Advocacy Training for HS girls girlsincli.org/boldfutureleaders/ Health Summit | Saturday, March 7th, 2020 Spring Empowerment Conference Saturday, April 25th, 2020

For more information contact Shaija Mills at smills@girlsinclongisland.org or 631-940-3749 ext 3775 WWW.GIRLSINCLI.ORG • (631) 940-3749

SLIDE

Thomas School of Horsemanship Riding Academy

250 Round Swamp Road, Melville 631-692-6840 tshcamp.com; tsh@tshcamp.com Birthday parties, scout parties, and class trips are always a blast at the Thomas School of Horsemanship. For groups of 14-18 children.

They receive one hour of riding time.

Saf-T-Swim School

INSPIRING ALL GIRLS TO BE STRONG, SMART AND BOLD

Sugar Factory

200 Merrick Ave., East Meadow 516-441-0070 northwellhealthicecenter.com Host your child’s birthday at Northwell Health Ice Center and have the coolest party in town. Our party planner will work with you to help plan a party experience that includes ice skating, skate rentals, pizza, and drinks.

183 South St., Oyster Bay 516-922-8300 notjustart.com; create@notjust art.com Not Just Art has oodles of excellent music, art, and science parties for ages 1-12 and beyond. Choose from our treasury of super imaginative projects or use favorite themes and activities as a creative springboard.

POW (HER) FUL SUMMIT

social learning interactive developmental experience

SLIDE program will allow your child the opportunity to practice interacting with peers, enhance social development and more.

Weekly themes will facilitate new experiences for your child to participate in group activities in a cooperative environment.

Unlimited Sports Action

Wowmoms World Long Island

328 E. Jericho Turnpike, Mineola 516-741-6667 wowmomsworld.com We do children’s birthday parties differently-ours are health-oriented, educational, and fun! Kids’ meals and cake are included, choose from activity options like princess and superhero visits, face painting, and obstacle courses!

WHO:

WHEN:

WHERE:

Groups will be available for children ages 3-9

9:30 AM - 11:00 AM on select Saturday’s

Syosset Campus

February:

2/1/2020 2/8/2020 2/29/2020

47 Humphrey Drive,

Syosset NY, 11791

PROGRAM DATES: March: April:

4/4/2020 3/7/2020 3/14/2020 4/25/2020 3/21/2020 3/28/2020

May:

5/2/2020

VARIETY CHILD LEARNING CENTER 47 HUMPHREY DRIVE SYOSSET NY, 11791 | 516- 921- 7171 www.vclc.org

LongIslandParent 41

Professional Services DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS PDM Family Dental

295 N. Broadway, Jericho 516-388-5002 pdmfamilydental.com; info@pdmfamilydental.com PDM Family Dental is a new dental office at the Hicksville Jericho border. We are here to provide comprehensive care for your entire family’s dental needs. We are open evenings.

The Tooth Pillow Dentistry

775 Park Ave, Suite 340, Huntington 516-317-2476 toothpillowny.com Your child will leave our office with all of their dental work completed, free from pain and bad memories. Trust your child with the experts in pediatric dental sedation.

DOCTORS AND MEDICAL PROVIDERS Advantage Care Health Center

189 Wheatley Road, Brookville 230 Hanse Ave., Freeport 516-686-4400 advantagecaredtc.org Advantage Care Health Centers and The Fay J. Lindner Center are Long Island’s premier Federally Qualified Health Care Centers (FQHC). We provide comprehensive medical, dental, and mental and behavioral health services to children and adults.

Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy

Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com Nassau: 516-216-1791 Suffolk: 631689-6858 Queens: 718-640-6767 Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, along with her group of therapists, supports families and children across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, and expressive and receptive language disorders.

FINANCIAL PLANNING & INSURANCE Bankers Life - Kimberly WilliamsRegnier

Serving NYC Metro Area, Nassau and Suffolk Counties, and Westchester 347-0247-7293 bankerslife.com

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kimberly-williams.regnier@bankerslife.com Our goal is simple, to offer solutions that meet your needs today and for the life of your retirement. Our agents begin by asking you a few questions. Knowing what’s most important to you, we can provide solutions.

LEGAL SERVICES Andrew Cohen, Esq., Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen

250 West 57th St., Suite 1216, Manhattan 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com; ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen provide personalized, high quality special needs estate planning and special education legal services at a reasonable cost. It also conducts free workshops on several topics for agencies, schools, and parent groups.

Fersch LLC

11 Broadway, Suite 550 Serving all of NYC and surrounding areas 212-422-2660 pffamilylaw.com familylaw@pffamilylaw.com Fersch LLC practices exclusively in matrimonial and family law. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and determined advocates for our clients. We provide care and attention to clients and their families of all income levels.

Law Offices of Brad H. Rosken, PLLC 534 Broadhollow Road, Suite 275, Melville 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He is also a parent of a child with special needs. He knows how far to push a school district to obtain the maximum that your child is entitled to under law.

Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP

3000 Marcus Ave., Suite 1E9, Lake Success 516-437-4385 570 Lexington Ave., Suite 1600, Manhattan 212-759-3500 255 Monmouth Road, 2nd floor, Oakhurst, NJ 732-531-8900 vmmlegal.com For 50 years, the law firm of Vishnick McGovern Milizio has helped private and business clients ensure their well-being, plan for their future, and protect their interests.

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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

LICE Fairy LiceMothers

2463 South Long Beach Road, Oceanside 866-561-0492 1755 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park 866-561-0492 679 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Head 866-561-0492 fairylicemothers.com fairylicemothers@gmail.com Our treatment centers are kid-friendly and our products are 100 percent non-toxic.

Treatments include two free re-checks.

Whether or not you use our service, we are here to help you.

Lice Clinics of America - Long Island 47 Jackson Ave., Syosset 566 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre 516-336-4099 liceclinicslongisland.com Lice Clinics of America will remove lice in just one hour! All lice and eggs—even Super Lice—are eliminated in a single, one-hour treatment. Affordable treatments, no toxic chemicals.

SPECIAL NEEDS Andrew Cohen, Esq.

Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen 250 West 57th St., Suite 1216, Manhattan 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com; ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen provide personalized, high quality special needs estate planning and special education legal services at a reasonable cost. It also conducts free workshops on several topics for agencies, schools, and parent groups.

and sibling programs, social events, vocational programs, and behavior intervention.

Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy

Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com Nassau: 516-216-1791 Suffolk: 631689-6858 Queens: 718-640-6767 Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, along with her group of therapists, supports families and children across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, and expressive and receptive language disorders.

The Tooth Pillow Dentistry

775 Park Ave, Suite 340, Huntington 516-317-2476; toothpillowny.com Your child will leave our office with all of their dental work completed, free from pain and bad memories. Trust your child with the experts in pediatric dental sedation.

TUTORS & TEST PREP Advanced Academic Programs of Roslyn

20 Roosevelt Ave., Roslyn 516-484-1789 roslynacademics.com info@roslynacademicprograms.com Roslyn Academic Programs offers enrichment programs for school age children in mathematics, physics, chemistry, robotics, programming and engineering, languages, music, and art. We also offer standardized test (ACT, SAT, etc.) and subject test preparation for high school students.

Law Offices of Brad H. Rosken, PLLC

Long Island STEM Prep LLC

Life’s WORC The Family Center for Autism

Long Island Tutorial Services

534 Broadhollow Road, Suite 275, Melville 631-379-9569 specialedcounselor.com brad@specialedcounselor.com Brad H. Rosken is an experienced trial attorney. He is also a parent of a child with special needs. He knows how far to push a school district to obtain the maximum that your child is entitled to under law.

1501 Franklin Ave., Garden City 516-741-9000; familycenterforautism.org The Family Center for Autism provides services and support for people with autism and their families. Programs include: insurance services, birthday parties, art, music, sports and culinary classes, camps, parent

Serving Nassau and Suffolk Counties 347-645-4980 listemprep.wixsite.com/listemprep listemprep@gmail.com We provide personalized sessions to improve science, math, and test prep outcomes for grade school into college. With more than a decade of experience authoring books, courses, and questions for standardized exams, our expertise helps students perform at their maximum potential.

173 N. Main St., Sayville 631-316-0426 litutorialservices.com litutorialservices@gmail .com Long Island Tutorial Services (LITS) provides award-winning customer service and firstrate instruction to families, island-wide. Call for a confidential consultation.

A great place to grow.

SAINT MARY’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A great place to grow.

SAINT MARY’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Sylvan Learning Centers of Mineola and Huntington

393 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola 516-743-9943 1160 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington 631-424-5600 sylvanlearning.com sylvanlearning@optonline.net Sylvan of Mineola and Huntington offer personalized tutoring programs in reading, writing, mathematics, SAT and ACT prep. Sylvan will help identify the right program for your child and exactly where your child needs to start to get the best results.

A great place to grow.

Village East Gifted - Enrichment Center for the Gifted Learner

Village East Gifted of Huntington 33 Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station 631-549-2313 Village East Gifted of Roslyn 216 Willis Ave., Roslyn Heights 631-549-2313 villageeastgifted.com info@villageeastgifted.com Village East Gifted provides after-school enrichment and private tutoring for gifted and talented students. We are a designated Johns Hopkins CTY and SAT testing center.

WhizKidz Tutoring LLC

A great place totolearn.

A great great place learn.

A placeto learn.

Nursery through Eighth Grade Nursery through Eighth Grade

OPEN HOUSE OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, OCT 20 | 2:00-4:30 PM

Serving Westchester, Rockland, and Bergen Counties and Long Island 914-200-3512 whizkidztutoring.com SUNDAY, JANUARY 26 | 12:00 PM emaltz@whizkidztutoring.com VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS AND OPTIONS WhizKidz Tutoring provides top notch tutoring services for students of all ages. You VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS AND OPTIONS can count on us to help boost your child’s confidence in school, develop a healthy FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT MRS. NORMANEW STAFFORD, | MANHASSET, 1340 NORTHERN BOULEVARD YORK 11030 relationship with learning, and improve grades across every subject.

DIRECTOR OFBOULEVARD ADMISSIONS AT 516 627 0184 OR NSTAFFORD@STMARY.WS | MANHASSET, | WWW.SAINTMARYSES.ORG 1340 NORTHERN NEW YORK 11030 516.627.0184

SUNDAY, OCT 20 | 2:00-4:30 PM

| WWW.SAINTMARYSES.ORG 516.627.0184 1340 NORTHERN BOULEVARD | MANHASSET, NY 11030 516.627.0184 | WWW.SAINTMARYSES.ORG

MAKE THE MOST OF PLAYTIME LAUNCH RIGHT IN WITH . . .

a SUPER SPACECRAFT!

GATHER THESE MATERIALS:

Pencil

2 toilet paper tubes

Paper towel tube

2. Draw a rounded 1. Lay a toilet

paper tube on top of a piece of cardboard.

Trace it.

nose to the traced shape. Then draw two rounded triangles for wings.

Small piece of cardboard

Markers or paint

3. Cut out the shape.

Scissors

(with an adult�s help)

Paper

Glue

5. Glue your cut tube on top of the cardboard in the shape of a spacecraft, and let it dry.

4. Trace the bottom of a toilet paper tube on top of another. Then cut out the round shape.

6. Color or paint your spacecraft. You

can also decorate it with stickers. Place a small toy inside and go for a ride. Tell a story about where you’re going!

TinkerActive Workbooks cover essential skills using curriculum-based exercises and interactive tinkering, making, and engineering activities using common household materials!

The Active Way to learn through play

Odd Dot

An imprint of Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group

AVAILABLE WHEREVER BOOKS ARE SOLD

LongIslandParent 43

openHOUSES Health Care Meet the

Catholic Elementary Schools of Long Island

Diocese of Rockville Centre Multiple Locations 516-280-2479 licatholicelementaryschools.org Come see how a safe and loving early childhood Catholic education will inspire your children, at an open house near you. Catholic Schools Week, Jan. 26-Feb. 1.

Hofstra Summer Camps

101 Oak St., Uniondale 516-463-CAMP (2267) hofstra.edu/academics/ce/summer-camp ce-camps@hofstra.edu Join us for our Summer Camps Open House on Feb. 2 from 12-2pm at the Hofstra Physical Education Building, North Campus. Discover more than 75 programs for kids kindergarten-12th! Register at hofstra.edu/camp or 516-463-CAMP.

Holy Child Academy

25 Store Hill Road, Old Westbury 516-626-9300 holychildacademy.org Holy Child Academy offers an exceptional curriculum that lays the foundation for future success. Call anytime for a tour.

School Districts Consult Attorneys.

Why Shouldn’t You?

School Districts ask their attorneys what is the minimum amount of services the law requires them to provide to special education students. Why shouldn’t you ask your attorney what are the maximum amount of services the law requires the School District to provide?

Going for your child’s first Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and don’t know what to expect?

I can give you the answers to those questions and many more. As your attorney, I solve problems.

Brad H. Rosken,

Counselor at Law

534 Broadhollow Road, Suite 275, Melville, New York 11747 (631) 379-9569 • Brad@specialedcounselor.com www.specialedcounselor.com 44

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Professional Advantage Care Health Center 189 Wheatley Road, Brookville 516-686-4400 230 Hanse Ave., Freeport advantagecaredtc.org

Dr. Mulqueen is board-certified in both internal medicine and pediatrics and is available to see patients of all ages. She has a particular interest in caring for children and adults with Down syndrome, autism, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. She holds professional memberships with the American Medical Association, American College of Physicians, and American Academy of Pediatrics. She is a member of the Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (DSMIG) and participates in the Annual Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group Symposium every summer.

The Tooth Pillow Dentistry 775 Park Ave, Suite 340, Huntington 516-317-2476 toothpillowny.com

The Tooth Pillow Dentistry is a group of board-certified pediatric dentists and dentist anesthesiologists who work together to safely provide dental treatment while your child “sleeps.” We provide this service for children who cannot be treated in the typical dental chair setting due to age, behavior, or other factors that hinder treatment. Your child will leave our office with all of their dental work completed, free from pain and bad memories. We will treat your child as if they were our own. Trust your child with the experts in pediatric dental sedation.

Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy Locations across Suffolk and Nassau: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com Nassau: 516-216-1791 Suffolk: 631-689-6858 Queens: 718-640-6767

Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, owns and operates Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy. With her group of therapists, she supports families and children across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, expressive and receptive language disorders (adults and children). Intensive feeding therapy for individuals who suffer from texture and consistency aversions, and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) are also offered. Seven affiliated offices across Long Island participate with most health insurance and offer evening and Saturday hours.

index birthday / party services

East Woods School ........................................ 17

religious

M.A.T.S.S. ...................................................... 15

Everbrook Academy of Glen Head .................... 5

Diocese of RVC ........................................ 13, 48

Urban Air........................................................ 23

Girls Inc of Long Island ................................... 41

Holy Child Academy ....................................... 15

Good Shepard Lutheran Church & School ...... 27

camps

Green Vale School ............................................ 7

Advanced Academic Programs of Roslyn ........ 31 Countryside Montessori School....................... 13 Future Stars - Old Westbury ........................... 21 Girls Inc of Long Island ................................... 41 Hofstra Summer Camps ................................... 3 LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................ 31 Sportime ........................................................ 12 Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts ................... 2 Village East Gifted .......................................... 19 Young People’s Day Camps - Nassau ................ 8

child care / day care Everbrook Academy of Glen Head .................... 5 Green Vale School ............................................ 7 M.A.T.S.S. ...................................................... 15

classes

Hofstra Summer Camps ................................... 3 Hofstra University / Saltzman Center .............. 39 Holy Child Academy ....................................... 15

Law Offices of Brad H Rosken ........................ 44 LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................ 31 Long Island Lutheran ...................................... 29 M.A.T.S.S. ...................................................... 15 St. Dominic Elementary School ....................... 33 St. Mary Elementary School ............................ 43 Sylvan Learning Center - Huntington & Mineola ......................................................... 37 Variety Child Learning Center ........................ 18

Once Upon A Child......................................... 12 Tinker Active .................................................. 43

special events Argyle Theater at Babylon Village ................... 47 Girls Inc of Long Island ................................... 41 Good Shepard Lutheran Church & School ...... 27

special needs Advantage Care Health Center ...................... 44 Fontanetta Neuropsychology PLLC ................. 37

Village East Gifted .......................................... 19

Hagedorn Little Village School ....................... 35

Winston Prepatory School - Long Island ......... 19

Huntington Learning Center .......................... 29 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.... 39, 44

Girls Inc of Long Island ................................... 41

events / outings

Music Institute of Long Island ......................... 39

retail

Huntington Learning Center .......................... 29

family entertainment /

LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................ 31

St. Mary Elementary School ............................ 43

Hagedorn Little Village School ....................... 35

Advanced Academic Programs of Roslyn ........ 31

Hofstra Summer Camps ................................... 3

St. Dominic Elementary School ....................... 33

Argyle Theater at Babylon Village ................... 47 Good Shepard Lutheran Church & School ...... 27 Urban Air........................................................ 23

Sylvan Learning Center - Huntington &

Law Offices of Brad H Rosken ........................ 44 Tooth Pillow Dentistry (The) ............................ 44 Variety Child Learning Center ........................ 18 Variety Child Learning Center-SLIDE ............... 41 Winston Prepatory School - Long Island ......... 19

Mineola ......................................................... 37

health

Variety Child Learning Center-SLIDE ............... 41

Advantage Care Health Center ...................... 44

sports

Village East Gifted .......................................... 19

Fontanetta Neuropsychology PLLC ................. 37

Future Stars - Old Westbury ........................... 21

developmental

Tooth Pillow Dentistry (The) ............................ 44

theater

Advantage Care Health Center ...................... 44

music

Fontanetta Neuropsychology PLLC ................. 37

Music Institute of Long Island ......................... 39

Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.... 39, 44 Variety Child Learning Center-SLIDE ............... 41

performing arts / acting Argyle Theater at Babylon Village ................... 47

education

Argyle Theater at Babylon Village ................... 47

tutors Advanced Academic Programs of Roslyn ........ 31 Huntington Learning Center .......................... 29

Countryside Montessori School....................... 13

play spaces

Sylvan Learning Center - Huntington &

Diocese of RVC ........................................ 13, 48

Urban Air........................................................ 23

Mineola ......................................................... 37

NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY metropolitan area!

LongIslandParent 45

last word

What is your New Year’s resolution for your kids?

“To make their own fun instead of curating every moment for them. When I was a kid, I remember some of the most fun times I had were just exploring the backyard or rearranging my bedroom furniture. I get so caught up in cramming every moment of the weekend with activities, I don’t give them enough time to make their own.”

—Andrea Worthington (@babygotchat), Westchester County

“I wish for a greater sense of confidence for my daughter, and for a continued self-growth and self-mastery for my son. He’s got quite the temper.”

—Jessica Arinella, Westchester County

“My resolutions for my son are to get him to keep his room decently clean and to teach him basic cooking skills.

He’s resistant to both!”

—Aimee Hartstein, Long Island

“To travel as often as possible, and to learn and grow outside the classroom.

We were fortunate to take a couple of trips outside the country last year and we want to keep capitalizing on this curiosity as often as possible for 2020.”

—Beth Beckman (@littlekidnyc), Manhattan

“After years of begging, we finally caved in and got a lovely puppy, Alfie. My hope for the New Year is that they get up at 6:30am and walk him. Of course, for them to be happy, healthy, and adventurous...but most importantly be kind to others and give back.”

Being content with who they are, keeping their heads up high, always being nice, and trying as hard as they can to ignore the nastiness that comes from kids around them (which often occurs when no adult is present to see or hear it).” —Stacey Gish Wallenstein (@themintchipmama), Long Island

—Cynthia Barron, Brooklyn

“Slow down in the New Year. With so many commitments and after-school schedules, I’d like for us all to stop rushing and enjoy the little moments together, have more impromptu dance parties, tea parties, movie nights—you know!” —Brianne Manz (@strollerinthecity), Manhattan

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b r o a dwa y co me s t o ba by l o n!

Mar 21stApr 19th

JAN 25TH - FEB 23rd

ACTING, SINGING, DANCING & IMPROV CLASSES grades K-12 Located in the Heart of Babylon Village, The Argyle Academy of the Arts Spring Intensive offers classes in acting, singing, dancing and improv for grades K-12.

Classes are taught in a supportive environment with theatre professionals.

Spring Intensive

JAN 27TH - MAY 5TH

Limited Enrollment Register Now!

Tickets: $15 Season Subscribers & Argyle Students: $12

Call our Box Office (844) 631-LIVE (5483)

jan. 16th - feb. 23rd

PARENT *Not to be combined.

Discount valid off premium main stage tickets only.

Special Pricing Tickets On Sale Now!

KIDS 12 & under $35*

*must call box office for kids pricing *Good for The Little Mermaid tickets only

34 W. MAIN STREET, BABYLON, NY 11702 | 844.631.live(5483) | argyletheatre.com LongIslandParent 47

2020 LI Parent CSW Back Cover :Layout 1 12/5/19 10:32 AM Page 1

Catholic S chools Week O pen Houses, Jan 26 - Feb 1

Visit an Open House near you during Catholic Schools Week.

St. Martin of Tours School Amityville • www.smtschool.org St. Christopher School Baldwin • www.stchris-school.org St. Patrick School Bay Shore • www.spsbayshore.org St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Regional School Bellmore • www.steas.com Our Lady of Providence Regional Central Islip • www.olprov.org Our Lady Queen of Apostles School Center Moriches • www.olqany.org Holy Family Regional School Commack • www.holyfamilyregional.com

S S Cyril and Methodius School Deer Park • www.sscmweb.org St. Mary School East Islip • www.saintmaryschoolei.org Trinity Regional School East Northport • www.trinityregional.org St. Raymond's School East Rockaway • www.srsny.org Our Lady of Victory School Floral Park • www.olvfp.org The De La Salle School* Freeport • www.delasalleschool.org St. Anne's School Garden City • www.stannesgcschool.org St. Joseph School Garden City • www.st-josephschool.com Holy Family School Hicksville • www.hfsli.org Our Lady of Mercy School Hicksville • www.olmshicks.org St. Patrick School Huntington • www.stpathunt.org

Long Beach Catholic Regional School Long Beach • www.lbcrs.org Our Lady Of Peace School Lynbrook • www.olpschoollynbrook.org Our Lady of Lourdes School Malverne • www.ollmalverne.org Our Lady of Grace Montessori* Manhasset • www.olgmanhasset.com St. Mary's Elementary School Manhasset • www.stmary11030.org St. Rose of Lima School Massapequa • www.stroseschool.net Notre Dame School New Hyde Park • www.ndsnet.org Holy Child Academy* Old Westbury • www.holychildacademy.org St. Dominic Elementary School Oyster Bay • www.stdomsob.org Holy Angels Regional School Patchogue • www.holyangelsregional.org Our Lady of Wisdom Regional School Port Jefferson • www.olowregional.org

St. Peter of Alcantara School St. Brigid/Our Lady of Hope Regional School Port Washington • www.stpeterspw.org Westbury • www.stbolh.org St. John Paul II Regional School St. Thomas the Apostle Riverhead • www.sjp2regional.org W Hempstead • www.stthomasschool.net St. Agnes Cathedral School St. Aidan School Rockville Centre • www.stagnes-school.org Williston Park • www.staidanschool.org Sts. Philip and James School St. James • www.sspjschool.net *Private Schools Maria Regina School Seaford • www.mariareginaschool.org St. William the Abbot School Seaford • www.stwilliamtheabbot.net St. Patrick School Smithtown • www.spssmith.org Our Lady of the Hamptons Regional School Southampton • www.olhamptons.org St. Edward The Confessor School Syosset • www.stedwardconfessor.org St. Martin De Porres Marianist School* Uniondale • www.stmartinmarianist.org Holy Name of Mary School Valley Stream • www.hnomschool.org www.LICatholicElementarySchools.org