Queens Parent January 2020

Queens Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

JANUARY 2020

Education Decisions • Choosing the right school for your child • Questions to ask on a tour • Schools and resources

What’s the big deal about Tiktok?

Our favorite podcasts for kids

Kon Gen International Preschool 196-25 42nd Avenue Bayside, NY 11358

Founded in 1993

Kon Wah Day School

135-27 38th Ave, 2nd Floor Flushing, NY 11354

718-353-4388 718-281-2338 kongeninternationalpreschool.com A unique preschool for children ages 2–5 Facility hours 7:45am - 6:00pm

FREE FULL-DAY Pre-K for All Program for 4 year-olds born in 2016

• Gifted and Talented Test Preparation • Dance studio/Gym, Indoor sensory room, Music room, Rooftop playground, Botanical Garden • Project based Curriculum aligned with NYS Common Core Learning Standards • Licensed by NYC Dept of Health

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

MS 358

The Magnet School for STEAM Exploration and Experiential Learning D i v e r s i t y

•

A c h i e v e m e n t

•

E q u i t y

What is student life like at MS 358?

• Life at MS 358 is fun, rigorous, challenging and transformational • Students learn through F.I.R.E. – Fellowship, Integrity, Resiliency, Excellence • Student-Led Conferences (SLCs) are designed for students to set goals and reflect on their progress • All students have access to technology every day during the school day • Arts are integrated into classroom experiences through strategic partnerships and residencies • Students can participate in a variety of clubs and enrichment activities including dance, debate team, sports and Saturday programs

MS 358 Provides Unique Experiences for All Students Through STEAM Unique Partnerships to Enhance Students’ Learning: • Blue Engine: teaching assistants in ALL math classrooms to decrease the student to teacher ratio • Middle School Quality Initiative: programs and resources to help close the achievement gap in literacy • Art Residencies and Experiences: » Alvin Ailey » Harmony Music Program » Materials for the Arts » Step & Dance Team » New Victory Theater Program » American Ballet Theater » Center for Arts Education • Individualized Learning Experiences Based on Students Interest: » Virtual Enterprise » Dance » Robotics » Advanced Spanish

MS 358 Facts: • 90% of students were admitted into their top 3 choices for High School • Students were accepted into Specialized High Schools including Stuyvesant, Bronx Science, Brooklyn Tech & Queens High School for the Sciences at York College • Students were accepted into specialized music programs at Forest Hills High School and Bayside High School • 16.9% Growth in Math for the 2018-2019 Academic Year, highest in District 28 • MS 358 was designated a 2018 NYS Reward school

OPEN HOUSE January 28 , 2020 • 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM th

For aspiring 7th Graders – Sept. 2020 start (current 6th graders) Families can explore the school, meet the teachers to learn about how STEAM experiential and explorational learning guides students in finding out what their interests are in High School and beyond.

“Sky Above Me, Earth Below Me, Fire Within Me” 88-08 164th Street • Jamaica, NY 11432 (718) 558-6240 • www.ms358.org MS358Q @358middle

FOR MORE INFORMATION: parentcoordinator@ms358q.org or ms358q@gmail.com www.ms358q.org (go to Magnet Application Survey)

(718) 558-6240 QueensParent

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inside

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

january 2020 14 Choices, Choices, Choices How to choose the best learning environment for your child

16 School Tour Questions These will help you guage which school is best for your child

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

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

40 Is Your Child Being Cyberbullied?

Learn how to read the signs, and how to help

COLUMNS 6 Editor’s Note 7 News: What’s Happening in the Community 10 Advice: Ask DadandBuried 12 Mommybites: Only Child No More

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46 Last Word: What’s Your New Year’s Resolution For Your Kids?

THINGS TO DO 25 Family Activities Calendar

RESOURCES 18 Education Directory 42 Party Central 44 Professional Services

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22

40

45 Advertisers’ Index

NYMetroParents

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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Committed to providing Neuropsychological and educational assessments to the children of NYC for more than a decade.

Our director, Dr. Sanam Hafeez, is a highly sought-after expert in child development and learning and is faculty at Columbia University.

She's a regular medical guest and expert on NBC, CBS, ABC, and CNN news shows, the Dr. Oz show, and contributes regularly to Web MD, Yahoo! Health and Parenting, Glamour, MSN, Women's Health Magazine, and more.

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Together they approach each case in a unique and tailored manner to deliver on-point assessments, clinical impressions, and recommendations, that help your child and family be happier, healthier and more successful.

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editor’s note

JANUARY 2020 • Vol.25 • No.5

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. 38), and how to tell if your child may be a victim of cyberbullying and what you can do about it (p. 40).

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. 10), 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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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.

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.

QueensParent

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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

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@nymetroparents

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New Places, New Programs

An Expanded Performing Arts Program The Magnet School for STEAM Exploration and Experiential Learning opened a dance space on Sept. 16, 2019. Made possible by a grant, the space is designed for the middle school dance and theater program. With the help of MS 358’s art teacher and partnerships with Alvin Ailey, American Ballet Theatre, and New Victory, students are exposed to all facets of the arts. 88-08 164th St., Jamaica; 718-558-6240; ms358.org.

Flushing Students Give Back The students at St. Kevin Catholic Academy are expanding their commitment to service through various acts, including a food drive, collections of blankets and emergency packages for The Legacy Center Community Development Corporation, and donations to Cohen’s Children’s Hospital. Additionally, Allison Murphy began as principal this school year after serving as principal at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Academy in Bushwick.

45-50 195th St., Flushing; 718-357-8110; stkevinca.org.

Advocating for Unity Day

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

Snow days are the best days!

(And thank you for the reminder to live in the moment, kiddo ) —Posted by @nihaonewyork Want to see your child in our magazine? Tag us on Instagram for a chance to be featured!

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

QueensParent

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advice

Ask DadandBuried 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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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.

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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.

Magnet Schools

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.

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.

Parochial Schools 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.

QueensParent 15

School Tour Questions These will help you gauge which school is best for your child.

By Andrew Campanella, president of National School Choice Week

1

What is your approach to education, and what makes your school unique? This question gives the school’s representative a chance to describe their school’s greatest asset or attribute—in their own words. School leaders should be able to give you a clear answer and describe the different ways that their school stands out.

2

What are your school’s academic expectations for students? Ask this question to let school leaders know that you are focused on your child’s academic success, and that you want to talk about learning. This question will, hopefully, lead to a larger discussion of the school’s approaches and methods.

3

What are some of the things that you do to make sure that students are learning at, or above, their grade levels?

This question will establish that you, too, have expectations for schools—while providing school leaders with opportunities to explain how they work toward accelerating student learning and success.

4

I want to make sure my son/daughter learns a lot.

Are the classes challenging and rigorous, but also relevant and interesting? Children can often rise to meet the challenges of rigorous coursework, if it is presented in a relevant and interesting way. Ask this question to determine how a school combines rigor and relevance, so that your child truly absorbs useful knowledge and information.

5

Can you please tell me what you look for when you recruit teachers? How do you define an effective teacher? Ask this question to determine if the school has a specific approach to finding knowledgeable, talented educators whose skills align with the school’s values and culture. Do school leaders consider student learning and success in determining whether teachers are effective?

6

How do you regularly monitor and evaluate student learning, and what do you do if students are struggling?

This question will help you find out when you will know if your child is learning at grade level, or if your child is struggling.

For example, you do not want to wait a whole year to discover that your child needs extra help in a specific subject.

7

How do you choose your curriculum and textbooks? Do you have a specific approach? Ask this question, because if a school uses one specific curriculum or type of textbooks for all or most of its classes, you can research it when you get

home and look at examples. If the school uses several different curricula, find out how the school decides which is best.

8

Do your teachers use a specific instructional strategy or method? (If so, what is it called, and can you explain what that means or how that works?) This question will help you know what, specifically, happens in a classroom. If the school uses a particular instructional strategy, ask them to explain it. For example, if you are told that the school uses “differentiated instruction,” you might ask, “Can you describe how that looks day to day?”

9

Can you please tell me more about the different types of classes and activities you offer? This question will help you determine whether the school offers the classes, clubs, activities, and sports programs that will be of interest to your child.

This question will also help you identify if the school offers catch-up coursework along with advanced or gifted classes.

10

How do you foster an environment of mutual respect between students, teachers, and parents?

Care and respect cannot be easily measured on a test, but they should be experienced every single day in a school building.

This question will help you gauge whether the school meets your standards for a caring environment and has built a culture of respect.

11

Please tell me more about your school’s approach to keeping students safe and preventing bullying.

Ask this question to determine whether the school has specific plans, policies, and procedures that align to your goals and priorities. If you are specifically concerned about bullying, I encourage you to ask follow-up questions about this, too.

12

Please tell me about your school’s approach to homework and testing. Even if you do not worry too much about homework or testing, you want to make sure you know exactly what will be expected of you and your child. This question will help you get specific examples of school practices, so you can see if they align to your goals and priorities.

13

What are the opportunities you have for parents to be involved, and what are your expectations of parents? By asking this question, you can determine whether a school has a thoughtful approach to parental involvement and engagement—activities that should go beyond just raising money for the school.

Excerpt reprinted with permission of Andrew Campanella, The School Choice Roadmap, Beaufort Books, New York, NY.

16

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Serendipity art school

Located in Broadway Flushing North Established 1997

For Ages 6 to Senior Citizens.

Small, Flexible, Personalized classes for beginners to the experienced Weekly Classes for: 1. Young Watercolor (6 yrs+) 2. Oil for all levels Monthly Workshops: 1. Graphite 3. Watercolor 2. Color Pencil 4. Pen & Ink

(718) 359-5696

Enriched curriculum including learning about artist’s lives, their techniques and their personalities.

• Students may participate in annual local art show • Special May Session: Try out a new Media for 4 weeks • Summer Program begins in July

www.dipity1983.com dipity1983@gmail.com @SerendipityArtSchool

QueensParent 17

Education Academic Enrichment and Educational Services CK Kids

68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village 718-366-7400 x247 ctkny.org CK Kids offers families one location for their educational and leisure activities.

We offer a variety of programs for ages 2-18. Our educational support programs for grades kindergarten-12th are designed to review and reinforce subject matter and skills necessary to achieve success.

On-site parking, reasonable prices, and flexible scheduling!

Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C.

114-20 Queens Blvd., Suite CS 2, Forest Hills 180 E. 79th St., Suite 1C, Manhattan 1-888-441-0015 comprehendthemind.com Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. is a group of school and neuropsychologists, that diagnose and assess a variety of conditions. We perform neuropsychological, educational, speech and language, and psychiatric evaluations to help you understand your child’s strengths and weaknesses, and plan for their educational success and emotional well-being.

Gooroo

646-791-3081 gooroo.com support@gooroo.com Gooroo offers in-person tutoring in your neighborhood! Our tutoring membership matches students to tutors based on their unique learning needs. Members have access to experts in more than 300 subjects. Gooroo provides continuous feedback, progress reports, and a designated Personal Learning Consultant to guide students through their learning journey.

Huntington Learning Center

35-30 Francis Lewis Blvd., Flushing 718-358-7900 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.

18

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.

Nina’s Tutoring Center

8702 Grand Ave., Elmhurst 718-205-7508 92-22 Corona Ave., Elmhurst 718-606-1056 tutornina@hotmail.com We tutor kids in kindergarten-12th grade.

For the past 11 years, we have provided quality education that helps kids excel.

We help improve skills in math, ELA, science, and social studies. We have an intensive preparation program for ELA, math, science, citywide and statewide exams, SAT and ACT.

Renascent Institute Spanish and Mandarin Immersion

PS 69 Jackson Heights, 77-02 37th Ave. 917-805-1232 renascentinstitute.org info@renascentintitute.org Spanish and Mandarin Saturday classes are offered in Jackson Heights. Give your child the gift of learning a foreign language taught by native, caring teachers.

Students will learn the language using puppets, storytelling, arts and crafts, board games, songs, and dancing. Learn a new language and have fun!

The Windsor School

37-02 Main St., Flushing 718-359-8300 thewindsorschool.com admin@thewindsorschool.com Students attend our summer school to earn course and Regents credit for acceleration, or to preview a course which will be taken during the upcoming school year.

Our schedule allows students to take up to two full year Regents courses. SAT/ ACT prep classes are also offered.

Charter Schools Our World Neighborhood Charter School 2 135-25 79th St., Howard Beach 718-392-3405 owncs.org/own2

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

admissions@owncs.org Our World Neighborhood Charter School 2 joined the District 27 school community.

Currently accepting applications for students in kindergarten-fourth grade, committed to an educational philosophy based on inquiry, active and experiential learning, and social justice. Through a literacy-based, integrated, and standards-driven curriculum students receive the broad education they need.

Day Care & Child Care Adventureland Child Care Center

32-04 31st Ave., Astoria 718-777-2011 adventureland.astoria@daycaremail. com 41-31 58th St., Woodside 718-274-4769 58stdaycare@daycaremail.com adventurelandchildcarecenter.com Adventureland Child Care offers exceptional care to families-since 1992! We offer full- and part-time programs for infants and toddlers, 2-year-olds, preschool, Pre-K for All, and after-school. We inspire learning through discovery of learning centers including: blocks, dramatic play, art, library, and writing. We offer yoga and our Kindergarten Readiness Promise!

Beautiful Minds Childcare

62-02 Myrtle Ave., Ridgewood 347-987-3270 beautifulmindsnyc.com beautifulmindsnyc@gmail.com We strive to find fun and creative approaches to empower children to be the best they can be. Our goal is to strengthen and encourage every child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being through the expertise of our staff and a unique partnership with parents. Full- and part-time available!

Commonpoint Queens Sam Field Center – Early Childhood Programs

58-20 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck 718-255-6750 x246 commonpointqueens.org/program/ early-childhood-programs tcampo@commonpointqueens.org Early Childhood Programs are designed for children ages 2-5, and include Nursery School and Childcare. Flexible scheduling offered with full- and parttime options. Our programs provide young children an opportunity to play, explore, and engage in multi-faceted learning activities under the guidance of professionally trained teachers.

Kon Gen International Preschool

196-25 42nd Ave., Bayside 718-281-2338 Kon Wah Day School 135-27 38th Ave., 2nd floor, Flushing 718-353-4388

We provide a nurturing environment that celebrates the uniqueness of each child. We offer creative dance, music, and art appreciation. Our educational program is based on monthly unit studies and a project based curriculum. We offer a roof-top playground, indoor play space, and a dance room!

SteppingStone Day School, Inc.

77-40 Vleigh Place, Kew Garden Hills 718-591-9093 steppingstonedayschool.com Since 1983, SteppingStone Day School has offered a unique, nurturing, and innovative preschool program for children of all abilities. In this enriched, diverse setting, children learn to play, negotiate, and interact with others, as a strong sense of well-being and the foundation for future learning success is instilled.

Magnet Schools MS 358: The Magnet School of Steam Exploration and Experiential Learning

88-08 164th St., Jamaica 718-558-6240 ms358.org; info@magnetschools.nyc At The Magnet School of STEAM Exploration and Experiential Learning, everyone learns with purpose. Classroom instruction incorporates passionate speaking, purposeful writing, powerful presentations, and digital literacy. Through project based and experiential learning students take intellectual risks, make real world connections, and explore authentic problems in their community and society.

Parochial & Religious Schools Archbishop Molloy High School

83-53 Manton St., Briarwood 718-441-2100 x155 molloyhs.org admissions@molloyhs.org Archbishop Molloy High School promotes intellectual curiosity, creativity, personal growth, and faith. Rooted in a tradition of high standards in academics, athletics, and service to others, students are challenged to excel by our top-tier faculty, dedicated coaching staff, and competitive curriculum.

Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School

71-06 31st Ave. E., East Elmhurst 718-898-3800 x2 msgrmcclancy.org Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School is a Catholic, coeducational, college preparatory school conducted in the educational tradition of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, providing a quality education for young men and women, fully interweaving gospel values and continued on page 20

THE WINDSOR SCHOOL LE AR N TO DAY. LE AD TO M O R ROW.

A Private College Preparatory School for Students in Grades 7 – 12 • Established in 1969 • Accredited by the Middle States Association of Secondary Schools and Colleges • Small class size providing individualized instruction • Personalized college advisement to support student goals

ROLLING ADMISSIONS Unhappy with your current school?

Not performing as well as expected?

IMMEDIATE TRANSFER AVAILABLE AFFORDABLE TUITION

7 mi. from Manhattan

• Merit Scholarship and Financial Assistance Available • Flexible Tuition Payment Plan

THE WINDSOR SCHOOL 37-02 Main Street, Flushing, New York 11354 (718) 359-8300 • www.thewindsorschool.com

Early Childhood Education at Commonpoint Queens’ Sam Field Center Extended Hours | Small Staff Ratios | Customizable Options Pre-K for All available, Child Care, Nursery School 2-5 Years Old • Music • Creative Arts • Building Blocks Math Program • Experiential Learning Centers • STEM Activities • Social Emotional Development • Physical Education • Literacy Development • Lunch Provided • Transportation Available 718-225-6750 x246 www.commonpointqueens.org 58-20 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck, N.Y. 11362

SEPTEMBER 2020 REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! QueensParent 19

continued from page 18 Catholic teachings with core curriculum.

Opportunities available for college credit and advanced placement.

St. John’s Preparatory School

21-21 Crescent St., Astoria 718-721-7200 stjohnsprepschool.org Faith, scholarship, and service are the hallmarks of a St. John’s Prep education. Exclusive Baccalaureate Program with S.J.U., challenging honors and AP Courses for college credit are offered. Exciting STEM programs that include science and health internships and museum apprenticeships. Creative visual and performing arts, competitive athletics program, and international travel available.

St. Kevin Catholic Academy

45-50 195th St., Flushing 718-357-8110 stkevinca.org At SKCA our STREAM Lab offers resources that allow students to supplement classroom experiences through problem-solving and project-based activities to develop a deeper understanding of science, technology, religion, engineering, arts education, and mathematics. We offer Mommy and Me, full- and half-day nursery and Pre-K for All, and before- and after-school programs.

St. Sebastian Catholic Academy

39-76 58th St., Woodside 718-429-1982 stsebastianacademy.org Nursery through eighth grade, including free Universal Pre-K for All. Free after-school academic and recreational programs are offered daily for students in grades sixtheighth, sponsored on-site by Maspeth Town Hall. An extended day program for students in grades nursery through fifth is available for an additional fee.

Preschools Adventureland Child Care Center

32-04 31st Ave., Astoria 718-777-2011 adventureland.astoria@daycaremail.com 41-31 58th St., Woodside 718-274-4769 58stdaycare@daycaremail.com adventurelandchildcarecenter.com Adventureland Child Care offers exceptional care to families-since 1992!

We offer full- and part-time programs for infants and toddlers, 2-year-olds, preschool, Pre-K for All, and after-school.

We inspire learning through discovery of learning centers including: blocks, dramatic play, art, library, and writing.

We offer yoga and our Kindergarten Readiness Promise!

20

Beautiful Minds Childcare

62-02 Myrtle Ave., Ridgewood 347-987-3270 beautifulmindsnyc.com beautifulmindsnyc@gmail.com We strive to find fun and creative approaches to empower children to be the best they can be. Our goal is to strengthen and encourage every child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being through the expertise of our staff and a unique partnership with parents. Full- and part-time available!

Commonpoint Queens Sam Field Center – Early Childhood Programs

58-20 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck 718-255-6750 x246 commonpointqueens.org/program/ early-childhood-programs tcampo@commonpointqueens.org Early Childhood Programs are designed for children ages 2-5, and include Nursery School and Childcare. Flexible scheduling offered with full- and parttime options. Our programs provide young children an opportunity to play, explore, and engage in multi-faceted learning activities under the guidance of professionally trained teachers.

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.

Kon Gen International Preschool

196-25 42nd Ave., Bayside 718-281-2338 Kon Wah Day School 135-27 38th Ave., 2nd floor, Flushing 718-353-4388 We provide a nurturing environment that celebrates the uniqueness of each child.

We offer creative dance, music, and art appreciation. Our educational program is based on monthly unit studies and a project based curriculum. We offer a rooftop playground, indoor play space, and a dance room!

SteppingStone Day School, Inc.

77-40 Vleigh Place, Kew Garden Hills 718-591-9093 steppingstonedayschool.com Since 1983, SteppingStone Day School has offered a unique, nurturing, and innovative preschool program for

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

children of all abilities. In this enriched, diverse setting, children learn to play, negotiate, and interact with others, as a strong sense of well-being and the foundation for future learning success is instilled.

Private Schools Archbishop Molloy High School

83-53 Manton St., Briarwood 718-441-2100 x155 molloyhs.org admissions@molloyhs.org Archbishop Molloy High School promotes intellectual curiosity, creativity, personal growth, and faith. Rooted in a tradition of high standards in academics, athletics, and service to others, students are challenged to excel by our top-tier faculty, dedicated coaching staff, and competitive curriculum.

Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School

71-06 31st Ave. E., East Elmhurst 718-898-3800 x2 msgrmcclancy.org Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School is a Catholic, coeducational, college preparatory school conducted in the educational tradition of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, providing a quality education for young men and women, fully interweaving gospel values and Catholic teachings with core curriculum.

Opportunities available for college credit and advanced placement.

St. John’s Preparatory School

21-21 Crescent St., Astoria 718-721-7200 stjohnsprepschool.org Faith, scholarship, and service are the hallmarks of a St. John’s Prep education. Exclusive Baccalaureate Program with S.J.U., challenging honors and AP Courses for college credit are offered. Exciting STEM programs that include science and health internships and museum apprenticeships. Creative visual and performing arts, competitive athletics program, and international travel available.

St. Kevin Catholic Academy

45-50 195th St., Flushing 718-357-8110 stkevinca.org At SKCA our STREAM Lab offers resources that allow students to supplement classroom experiences through problem-solving and project-based activities to develop a deeper understanding of science, technology, religion, engineering, arts education, and mathematics. We offer Mommy and Me, full- and half-day nursery and Pre-K for All, and before- and after-school programs.

The Windsor School

37-02 Main St., Flushing 718-359-8300 thewindsorschool.com admin@thewindsorschool.com Founded in 1969, The Windsor School is an independent, coeducational, college preparatory school for middle and high school students. Students are provided a rigorous curriculum designed to help gain admission to top-ranked colleges and universities. Merit scholarship and financial aid are available, offering an affordable tuition for most families.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS MS 358: The Magnet School of Steam Exploration and Experiential Learning

88-08 164th St., Jamaica 718-558-6240 ms358.org info@magnetschools.nyc At The Magnet School of STEAM Exploration and Experiential Learning, everyone learns with purpose. Classroom instruction incorporates passionate speaking, purposeful writing, powerful presentations, and digital literacy. Through project based and experiential learning students take intellectual risks, make real world connections, and explore authentic problems in their community and society.

Our World Neighborhood Charter School 2

135-25 79th St., Howard Beach 718-392-3405 owncs.org/own2 admissions@owncs.org Our World Neighborhood Charter School 2 joined the District 27 school community.

Currently accepting applications for students in kindergarten-fourth grade, committed to an educational philosophy based on inquiry, active and experiential learning, and social justice. Through a literacy-based, integrated, and standards-driven curriculum students receive the broad education they need.

Special Needs Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C.

114-20 Queens Blvd., Suite CS 2, Forest Hills 180 E. 79th St., suite 1C, Manhattan 1-888-441-0015 comprehendthemind.com Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. is a group of school and neuropsychologists, that diagnose and assess a variety of conditions. We perform neuropsychological, educational, speech and language, and psychiatric evaluations to help you understand your child’s strengths and weaknesses, and plan for their educational success and emotional well-being.

ASTORIA'S #1 PLACE TO PAINT, PLAY AND PARTY!

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Art based educational classes that emphasize a style of learning involving action and engagement, in a setting that is sensory sensitive, clean, and calm.

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SteppingStone Day School Inc.

GIVE YOUR 3-4 YEAR OLD The Gift of a Unique Preschool Experience

Celebrating 35 Years of Serving Young Children and Their Families

• Child-friendly, Nurturing and Creative Classroom Environments • Inclusive Education for Children with Diverse Learning Styles • Licensed by The NYC Department of Health • NYS Certified Teachers and Assistants • Family Support Staff and Parent Involvement Programs • Flexible Part Time Options for 3 year olds • Summer Program Option

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Before/After Class Care Available more information » For or to arrange a visit 718.591.9093 «

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Full Time Nurse on Site QueensParent 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 Word 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).

This JAN. ask about our Mid-Winte r & Spring Soccer Ma stery Clinic s

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Contact us for more info: info@superkickers.com | www.superkickers.com

1-(833)-superkickers or (718) 350-1535 QueensParent 23

ST. JOHN’S PREP CONGRATULATIONS to the Accepted Students for the Class of 2024 For information about SJP, please call 718-721-7200 ext.699

Educating Tomorrow’s Leaders St. John’s Prep promotes academic excellence, installs values and prepares young men and women to be “Tomorrow’s Leaders”. St. John’s Prep provides its students with an engaging academic program, significant service experiences and extensive co-curricular opportunities to lay the foundation for college success and a purpose filled life.

• Rigorous curriculum that offers an array of Advanced Placement, Honors, and College courses • Dedicated faculty who provide a safe, challenging, and nurturing environment • Co-curricular activities that offer exciting and enriching programs in the Arts, Athletics, and STEM • Stimulating opportunities through internships, global travel, and service 718.721.7200 | stjohnsprepschool.org 21-21 Crescent Street | Astoria, NY 11105

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

R A D N E CAL

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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

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26 Editor’s Hot Tickets 27 NYC Events Worth the Trek 28 Holiday Fun 30 Theater, Concerts, & Movies

32 Educational Activities 34 Nature Lovers, Special Needs 35 Get Active!

36 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!

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’

WHEN: Through Jan. 4: see website for showtimes WHERE: The Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St. (between 44th Avenue and 44th Road), Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Join Charlie Brown and his Peanuts gang in this heart-warming holiday musical as they dig past the commercialized gimmicks of presents and decorations to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas.

WHY WE LOVE IT: The performances feature the music of Vince Guaraldi, and new original dance and song numbers as well.

WANT TO GO? $25 ($22 advance); $15 children younger than 17 ($12.50 advance). 718-392-0722. secrettheatre.com.

Cirque Mechanics’ ‘42FT’ WHEN: Through Jan. 5: see website for showtimes WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown 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.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s a great introduction to full-length theater for young children!

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

‘Princess Particular’

HOT TICKET

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2:30pm WHERE: The Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St., Long Island City 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!”

WHY WE LOVE IT: Audience interaction encouraged! Plus, a photo opportunity after the performance with the actors.

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

Gingerbread Lane 2019 WHEN: Through Jan. 12: Monday-Friday, 9:30am–5pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am–6pm 26

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Visitors can marvel at homemade gingerbread houses made entirely of edible gingerbread, royal icing, and candy. The houses are drafted, designed, baked, planned, built, and decorated by chef Jon Lovitch over the course of an entire year.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Visitors can make their own gingerbread houses or trains during dedicated workshops.

WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission ($16 adults; $13 children ages 2-17). 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

Steam Lab! WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 10:30am WHERE: Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning (JCAL), 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: When mad scientist Dr. Loboto tries to take over the world, the kids in the audience must put their knowledge of STEAM to the test.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Everyone participates in the most outrageous multi-media game show ever, as they conduct experiments, solve clues, and figure out riddles!

WANT TO GO? $7 adult; $5 child. 718-658-7400. jcal.org.

Lunar New Year Celebration FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 12-4pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the Year of the Rat at QBG with crafts, performances, and activities for the whole family!

WHY WE LOVE IT: Welcome the New Year with a plant from the Lucky Plant sale. Pick something out as a family!

WANT TO GO? 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Mets Fan Fest WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 12-2pm; 2-4pm; 4-6pm WHERE: Citi Field, 120-01 Roosevelt Ave., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Fan Fest will feature appearances by new manager Carlos Beltrán, current Mets players, and Mets legends, and include games, ballpark tours, and other activities for the whole family.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Find the time that works best for your family and choose from three different 2-hour sessions.

WANT TO GO? $20 adults; $5 children younger than 13.

Spooktacular: Out of this World’s Fair!

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 2-4pm WHERE: Queens Museum, 111-01 Corona Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: For the 10th year in a row, the museum’s second-floor galleries will transform into a spooky space for the most distinct costume party of the year. Expect an afternoon of performances, live music, face-painting, art-making, scavenger hunts, raffle prizes, and tasty treats for all ages!

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s an affordable fundraiser that the whole family can attend.

WANT TO GO? $25. 718-592-9700. queensmuseum.org.

Hello Panda Lantern Festival WHEN: Through Jan. 26: daily, 5-10pm WHERE: Citi Field, 120-01 Roosevelt Ave., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the holiday season with a lantern park, diverse entertainment, food, modern art exhibitions, interactive games, cultural handcrafts, cultural heritage experiences, and live stage performances.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s the largest lantern show ever for New York, with over 120 sets of lanterns displayed.

WANT TO GO? $28; $25 children ages 3-12; free for children younger than 3. https://eventbrite.com/e/hello-panda-festival-citi-field-the-largest-lantern-festival-in-north-america-tickets-71941674485.

Escape the Room! FREE WHEN: Jan. 22-Feb. 19, Jan. 22 and Feb. 19, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library - Howard Beach Branch, 92-06 156 Ave., Howard Beach AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Players are challenged to solve a series of mental puzzles and riddles within a certain amount of time.

WHY WE LOVE IT: It’s an immersive and interactive experience perfect for teens!

WANT TO GO? 718-641-7086. queenslibrary.org.

Balloon Days

WHEN: Jan. 17-21, Friday, 5-8pm; Saturday-Tuesday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk, CT AGES: All WHAT: The museum’s first Family Fun Night kicks off Balloon Days, a sensational five-day pop party, with special guest Winnie the Pooh.

WANT TO GO? $15; $10 seniors 62 and older; free for children younger than 1, members and active duty military personnel and their families within the same household. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

‘The Rainbow Fish Musical’

WHEN: Jan. 18-26, Saturday, 11am; Sunday, 12pm; plus, Jan. 20, 11am WHERE: The Showplace at Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Avenue, Bellmore, Long Island AGES: All WHAT: See the international bestseller and award-winning book brought to life.

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

‘Year of the Golden Rat’: Nai Ni Chen Dance

WHEN: Jan. 25-26, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, NJ AGES: All WHAT: The stage will be transformed into a stunning garden of flowers, along with majestic dragons, acrobatic lions, elegant peacocks, twirling ribbons, and more to dazzle the senses.

WANT TO GO? $27-$35. 800-466-5722. njpac.org.

Bindlestiff Family Cirkus

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 26, 3pm WHERE: Academic Arts Theatre, 75 Grasslands Road, Valhalla, Westchester County AGES: All WHAT: Brain twisters and other risk-taking, gravity-defying feats are set to live music in a funny and interactive show!

WANT TO GO? $26; $24 seniors; $18 children younger than 13.

914-606-6262. sunywcc.edu/about/smartarts.

NYC Events

WORTH THE TREK 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, Long Island AGES: All WHAT: Share every magical moment filled with breathtaking ice-skating and beloved songs and stories that give you a reason to believe!

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

QueensParent 27

Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Program FREE

WHEN: Friday, Jan. 17, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Langston Hughes Library-Community Cultural Center, 100-01 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy a reading about Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. and use your creative skills to create a banner or sign.

WANT TO GO? 718-875-3500. littleflowerny.org.

Lunar New Year Performance FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 2-3pm WHERE: Forest Hills Library, 108-19 71st Ave., Forest Hills AGES: All WHAT: A memorable performance by the singing group and silver dancing group of the Austin Senior Center.

WANT TO GO? 718-268-7934. queenslibrary.org.

Holiday Fun

2020 & Sunny Dreams: A Jazz Dance & Poetry New Year Celebration! FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 9, 5:30-6:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, 95-06 Astoria Blvd., East Elmhurst AGES: All WHAT: Light up the New Year with dance, music, spoken word, and more, plus performances by Kristin D. Takyi and Goussy Célestin.

WANT TO GO? queenslibrary.org.

MLK Jr. Activities FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 14, 4-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, 54-22 Skillman Ave., Woodside AGES: All WHAT: Join the library to remember Martin Luther King, Jr. WANT TO GO? 718-429-4700. queenslibrary.org.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Poetry Writing Program FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 14, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, 204-01 Hollis Ave., South Hollis AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday with some poems to remember this very special man.

WANT TO GO? 718-465-6779. queenslibrary.org.

Gates Of Equality With Urban Stages FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 15, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library , 312 Beach 54th St., Arverne AGES: 6-12 WHAT: Children will hear the story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. WANT TO GO? 718-634-4784.

MLK Jr. Day Craft FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 4-5pm WHERE: Forest Hills Library, 108-19 71st Ave., Forest Hills AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Head to the library for a story and craft celebrating Martin Luther King Jr.! Get your ticket at the Children’s Room reference desk before the start of the program.

WANT TO GO? 718-268-7934. queenslibrary.org.

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

His Dream: A Look at the Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 11am and 1pm WHERE: Queens Library, 191-05 Linden Blvd., St. Albans AGES: All WHAT: See screenings of King of the Wilderness and Selma.

WANT TO GO? 718-528-8196. queenslibrary.org.

Lunar New Year Tradition: Puppet Making & Dragon Walk WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 2pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Make your own “tricky rat” puppets. Then go on a Dragon Walk with puppeteer and storyteller Luciano Cohen.

WANT TO GO? $10; $5 students and children; free for teens.

718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Lunar New Year Celebration FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 24, 3-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, 121-23 14th Ave., College Point AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with a story and a craft.

WANT TO GO? 718-359-1102. queenslibrary.org.

Dream to Read FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 2-4pm WHERE: Queens Library , 144-20 243rd St., Rosedale AGES: All WHAT: All are invited to a reading of various books.

WANT TO GO? 718-528-8490. queenslibrary.org.

Lunar New Year Craft FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 3-3:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Make a Chinese zodiac mask for the Year of the Rat! WANT TO GO? 718-225-8414. queenslibrary.org.

Lunar New Year Storytime Celebration FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 27, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, 60-05 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Stories will be told about Lunar New Year. Then make a craft.

WANT TO GO? 718-359-8332. queenslibrary.org.

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!

Beautiful Minds Childcare Monday - Friday 7AM –6PM • Ages 2–5

ABOUT THE PROGRAM:

• Foreign Language

• Baby Yoga

INCLUDED IN TUITION:

• A Year-Round Program

• Music and Movement

• Creative Curriculum with Thematic Units

• Arts & Crafts

• 7,500 Sq. Ft. Facility

• Potty Training

• Indoor/Outdoor Playgrounds

• Science and Explorations

• Daily STEM Activities

• Cooking Classes

• Large Classrooms

• Healthy Hot Meals Prepared (Breakfast, Lunch & Snack Provided)

• Candy and Nut Free Environment • ACS/HRA VOUCHERS ACCEPTED

62-02 Myrtle Ave Ridgewood, NY 11385 BeautifulMindsNYC@gmail.com • (347) 987-3270

www.BeautifulMindsNYC.com

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

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

Call for Details

Us! JoinWINTER OPEN HOUSE

FOR ACCEPTED STUDENTS Thursday, January 23, 2020 6:00-8:00pm

@molloyhs

/ArchbishopMolloy

@molloyhs @molloyhsadmissions

83-53 Manton Street, Briarwood, NY 11435 718-441-2100 |admissions@molloyhs.org |molloyhs.org

Follow us on Twitter

Party Packages Avaliable Year Round

Children’s Birthday Parties Teen Parties Corporate & Team Building Events Please call our party hostess Lisa for more information and to book your party today!!!

718-353-6300

www.WhitestoneBowlingLanes.com QueensParent 29

AGES: 3-4 WHAT: Toddlers and their caregivers will learn the rudiments of the guitar, get to touch and play a guitar, and have fun!

Preregistration required.

WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010.

‘Guess What’–The Family-Friendly Comedy Show WHEN: Jan. 18, 12:30pm WHERE: The Creek & The Cave, 10-93 Jackson Ave., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: The show is hosted by an 11-year-old and her dad.

WANT TO GO? $10. 718-706-8783. creeklic.com.

Open Mic Jokes For Belly Laugh Day! FREE

Theater, Concerts, & Movies Caribbean Arts Festival: A Tribute To The Late Great Roberto Clemente FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 4, 2-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, 144-20 243rd St., Rosedale AGES: All WHAT: The movie Clemente pays a tribute to one of baseball’s greatest players and a true humanitarian, Roberto Clemente.

WANT TO GO? 718-528-8490. queenslibrary.org.

Monthly Jazz Jam: Celebrating the Legacy of Louis Armstrong WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 8, 7-10pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Open to jazz students, musicians, and music educators to hone your skills and jam with your peers. Don’t play? Come listen!

WANT TO GO? $10; free for students and musicians. 718463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Five Boroughs Music Festival: Longleash WHEN: Friday, Jan. 10, 7:30pm WHERE: Flushing YMCA, 138-46 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Longleash marks the 250th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth with a program that features two Beethoven piano trios alongside contemporary responses by John Zorn and Reiko Füting.

WANT TO GO? $25 adults; $10 students; free for teens. 516-3342250. ymcanyc.org.

New Star Arts Center: Dance Performance FREE WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 12, 2-4pm WHERE: Flushing Library, 41-17 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: The Shiying Dance School introduces Chinese and Western cultures to American audiences through dance.

WANT TO GO? 718-661-1200. queenslibrary.org.

Guitar Exploration For Toddlers FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 6-6:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven 30

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Friday, Jan. 24, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, 169-09 137 Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Performers will sign up with the library staff with their joke or riddle and will be called up in a random order. Spectators are welcome.

WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

Cinema Saturdays FREE WHEN: Jan. 4-25, Saturdays, 2:30-4:30pm WHERE: Forest Hills Library, 108-19 71st Ave., Forest Hills AGES: All WHAT: Be entertained by Abominable, The Angry Birds Movie 2, Pokémon Detective Pikachu, and Peter Pan. WANT TO GO? 718-268-7934. queenslibrary.org.

‘Pirate Pete’s Parrot’ WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 2:30pm WHERE: The Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St. (between 44th Ave. and 44th Road), Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: A melodic medley of misfits promises music, mischief, and a boatload of laughs for everyone.

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

Grupo Rebolu: Season Welcome Party!

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 3pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Learn the traditional steps of cumbia, puya, mapale, and bullerengue, then enjoy some Afro-Colombian music and dance.

WANT TO GO? $14; $10 members; $8 children/$6 member children; free for teens. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Zhou Family Band WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 26, 2pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Zhou Family Band plays traditional wind and percussion music that accompanies birth and death celebrations of the people of Central-Eastern China for more than 600 years.

WANT TO GO? $18; $12 students; free for teens. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

‘Dog Man: The Musical’ WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 26, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Corona AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Dog Man loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But can he save the city from Flippy, the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Will he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat?

WANT TO GO? $15. 718-8600064. queenstheatre.org.

Family Movie: ‘Dora And The Lost City Of Gold’ FREE

website for showtimes WHERE: Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Corona AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Four decades before the Civil War, the African Grove Theatre Troupe sets out to stage Richard III, until another company snags a big star and attempts to stop them.

WANT TO GO? $20. 718-860-0064. queenstheatre.org.

Children’s Book Club and Performance Series WHEN: Through June 3: see website for showtimes WHERE: Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy live adaptations of children’s literature.

WANT TO GO? $9. 718-631-6311. visitqpac.org.

Teen Movie Night FREE WHEN: Through June 24: Wednesdays, 7-8:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Enjoy viewers’ choice movies every Wednesday.

WANT TO GO? 718-990-0778. queenslibrary.org.

Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School

WHEN: Monday, Jan. 27, 4:306:15pm WHERE: Queens Library, 85-12 Main St., Brairwood AGES: All WHAT: Watch Dora and the Lost City of Gold (2019, PG).

WANT TO GO? 718-658-1680. queenslibrary.org.

Watch a Book Movie Matinee: ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 29, 1-3:15pm WHERE: Kew Gardens Hills Library, 72-33 Vleigh Place, Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Watch the 1962 movie adaption of To Kill a Mockingbird. (NR) WANT TO GO? 718-261-6654.

Karaoke! FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 29, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: All WHAT: Sing your heart out or just listen!

WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010.

Titan Theatre Co.’s ‘The African Company Presents Richard III’ WHEN: Jan. 31-Feb. 9, see

NEW STUDENT RECEPTION Wednesday, January 22nd, 2020 • 7:00 PM 71-06 31st Avenue • East Elmhurst, NY 11370

McClancy Voices “McClancy’s best feature is the family-like atmosphere. All the teachers care for their students, and the staff makes you feel at home. I have grown educationally as a man, and McClancy has enhanced my personality.”

- Joseph Medina, Class of 2020 “I chose to attend McClancy because it fit my image of a high school, a welcoming community with a vibrant campus and many extracurricular activities.”

- Amanda Busanet, Class of 2020

CONTACT: Mr. Nicholas Melito (718) 898-3800 X2

EDUCATING IN THE TRADITION OF THE BROTHERS OF THE SACRED HEART QueensParent 31

Mama Tingo: Author Talk And Book Presentation FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 14, 4:30-6pm WHERE: Langston Hughes Library-Community Cultural Center, 100-01 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Join Raynelda Calderon to present her new children’s book, Mama Tingo, the inspiring story of a courageous peasant woman.

WANT TO GO? 718-875-3500. littleflowerny.org.

Parks And Playscapes With ArchForKids FREE

Educational Activities Out of This World (Exoplanets and More) FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 6, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library , 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Students will design an exoplanet.

WANT TO GO? 718-990-0778. queenslibrary.org.

Dream Work with Alyssa Bonilla FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 9, 6:30pm WHERE: Book Culture LIC, 26-09 Jackson Ave., Long Island City AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Alyssa Bonilla will read from her new book, Arana and the Mother Tree, and lead a short dream work session.

WANT TO GO? 718-440-3120. bookculture.com.

Family & Friends CPR Training WHEN: Friday, Jan. 10, 6-8pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Learn the lifesaving skills of adult hands-only CPR. WANT TO GO? $5. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Explore Gravity While Building A Pom Pom Drop FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 11am-12pm WHERE: Queens Library, 169-09 137 Ave., Jamaica AGES: 7 and older WHAT: Kids will work on concepts of design, shape, and structure.

WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

Scientist Talk with Moiya McTier, Astrophysicist FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2-3pm WHERE: Queens Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Columbia University scientist Moiya McTier will speak about exoplanets, citizen science projects, and more.

WANT TO GO? 718-990-0778. queenslibrary.org.

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 15, 4-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, 60-05 Main St., Flushing AGES: 6-12 WHAT: Children will learn urban planning basics as they design a park.

WANT TO GO? 718-359-8332. queenslibrary.org.

Kowai: Japanese Monsters FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 15, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, 92-25 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Beach AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Join an anime anthropologist as he shares his knowledge.

WANT TO GO? 718-634-1110. queenslibrary.org.

College Bound Workshop at M.S. 158 FREE WHEN: Through Jan. 15: Wednesdays, 5:15pm (no session Jan. 1) WHERE: M.S. 158, 46-35 Oceania St., Bayside AGES: 13 and older WHAT: The BEACON team will assist you at this workshop.

WANT TO GO? 718-423-2266. commonpointqueens.org.

Drag Queen Story Hour FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 15, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, 25-01 Jackson Ave., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: The program features a drag queen reading picture books, singing songs, and leading children in a craft activity.

WANT TO GO? 718-937-2790. queenslibrary.org.

Meet Your Compost Microbes WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Learn how to identify active biology living in your compost.

WANT TO GO? $6. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

From Here To There, Bridges Of NY FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 23, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Forest Hills Library, 108-19 71st Ave., Forest Hills AGES: 6-12 WHAT: Children will learn about the city’s notable bridges.

WANT TO GO? 718-268-7934. queenslibrary.org.

Baby/Toddler Sign Language FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 24, 10:30-11:30am WHERE: North Hills Library, 57-04 Marathon Parkway, Little Neck AGES: Newborn to 2

WHAT: Certified instructor Christina Napoletano will lead this program.

WANT TO GO? 718-225-3550. queenslibrary.org.

Belly Laugh Day at Friday Kids’ Club FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 24, 3:30-5:30pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: All WHAT: Read a joke, write an original, or tell a funny story.

WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

S.T.E.A.M. Saturday: Newspaper Shoes FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 11am-12pm WHERE: Queens Library, 169-09 137 Ave., Jamaica AGES: 7 and older WHAT: What will you design using just newspapers, scissors, and tape?

WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.

• Free Full Day Pre K for All • Nursery Half/Full Day Sessions • Us Together (Mommy & Me) • Regents-Math 9 & Living • Environment 9 • Before /After School Programs • 1:1 Chromebook Technology • Lab Learner Lab • Small Class Sizes • NY State Certified Faculty • Tuition Assistance

At St. Kevin Catholic Academy, Our Blessings Are Many!

The Art of the Brick

WHEN: Through Jan. 26: Monday-Friday, 9:30am-5pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am–6pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 4701 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Experience the world’s largest display of LEGO art.

WANT TO GO? $7 per person, plus museum admission ($16 adults; $13 children, students & senior citizens). 718-699-0005. nysci.org.

STEAM Ahead FREE WHEN: Jan. 7-28, Tuesdays, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, 191-05 Linden Blvd., St. Albans AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Develop problem-solving skills using science, engineering, and art.

WANT TO GO? 718-528-8196. queenslibrary.org.

THE PLACE TO GO, THE PLACE TO GROW! skca.apa

St. Kevin Catholic Academy

45-50 195th Street Flushing, NY 11358 CALL (718) 357-8110 TO INQUIRE www.stkevica.org

Lego Ev3 Mindstorm Robotics For Kids FREE WHEN: Through Jan. 28: select Wednesdays, 4-5pm WHERE: Queensboro Hill Library, 60-05 Main St., Flushing AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Learn to build a LEGO Ev3 robot and obstacle course.

WANT TO GO? 718-359-8332.

Beginning February Walk-in-Wednesdays 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Kids Going Green FREE WHEN: Jan. 9-30, Thursdays, 4-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library, 60-05 Main St., Flushing AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Use tablets to learn about animal conservation and design sustainable communities using interactive architecture-building sets.

WANT TO GO? 718-359-8332. queenslibrary.org.

STEAM Activities FREE WHEN: Through June 18: Thursdays, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library, 14-01 Astoria Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 6-11 WHAT: This program introduces children to the amazing world of science, technology, engineering, art, and math WANT TO GO? 718-278-2220. queenslibrary.org.

QueensParent 33

AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Enjoy pretend play examining animals, look at animal x-rays, groom the rabbits, and help take care of the turtles.

Students will love meeting the live animal guests.

WANT TO GO? $24. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Animal Care Trainee WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 26, 10am-12pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Help care for APEC’s animals. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? $24. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Art in the Garden: Recollections FREE

Nature Lovers Beth Sholom Day Camp Open House FREE WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 12, 10am-1pm WHERE: Beth Sholom Day Camp, 401 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights AGES: All WHAT: Meet the directors and members of the leadership team and take a tour of the unique indoor and outdoor facility.

WANT TO GO? 516-621-9257. bethsholomdaycamp.com.

APEC Adventure Time – Furry Friends WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 11am-12:15pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Touch and feel soft, furry friends including the rabbit and guinea pig. Toddlers and parents/caregivers enjoy some special time together as they socialize with other youngsters and learn about nature.

WANT TO GO? $20. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Food Webs And Me WHEN: Monday, Jan. 20, 9am-3pm WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Explore the importance of food chains and food webs in ecosystems around the Americas. Campers will explore exhibits around the zoo and even visit the zoo kitchen to see how we prepare food for the animals.

WANT TO GO? $100. 718-271-1500. queenszoo.com.

I Want to Be a Vet WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 26, 10am-12pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston 34

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Jan. 17-March 22: see website for days and times WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: See select works from the first ten years of exhibitions in QBG’s art gallery.

WANT TO GO? 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.

Nature Play Club FREE WHEN: Through April 23: third Sunday of each month, 2pm WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy free monthly sessions at the zoo and in nearby parks, connecting families back to nature through unstructured, free-play exploration. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 718-271-1500. queenszoo.com.

Special Needs Our Autism Lifestyle: A Parent Support Network FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 1-3pm WHERE: Queens Library - Woodhaven Branch, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: Adult WHAT: Parents, caregivers, and friends who have loved ones with autism are invited to come together, share information, and provide support. Adults only please. Moderated by Cheryl Ocampo, M.S., BIS (behavior intervention specialist).

Preregistration required.

WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010. https://facebook.com/pg/ ourautismlifestyle/about/.

Circle of Friends FREE WHEN: Through June 19: Fridays, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library - Astoria Branch, 14-01 Astoria Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 6-13 WHAT: This program is for children with autism spectrum disorder.

The goal of this program is to help children to learn social skills through simple science experiments, art projects, and board games. A therapist or caregiver must be present.

WANT TO GO? 718-278-2220. queenslibrary.org.

Get Active!

Minute-to-Win-It FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 9, 6-7pm WHERE: Queens Library, 92-06 156th Ave., Howard Beach AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Participants are given 60 seconds to complete challenges against each other using common household items.

WANT TO GO? 718-641-7086. queenslibrary.org.

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Team Jigsaw Puzzle Competition FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 20, 11am-3pm WHERE: Lost Battalion Hall Recreation Center, 93-29 Queens Blvd., Rego Park AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Teams of two will compete in the 100-piece puzzle division, while teams of four will compete in the 350-piece puzzle division.

The first team to complete the puzzle will win.

WANT TO GO? 718-263-1163. nycgovparks.org.

Fun Fridays FREE WHEN: Jan. 3-24, Fridays, 4-5pm (no session Jan. 17) WHERE: Queens Library, 40-20 Broadway, Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Join for fun activities including Bingo and crafts.

WANT TO GO? 718-721-2462. queenslibrary.org.

Meditation for Kids FREE

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WHEN: Jan. 27-Feb. 24, Mondays, 12:15-1:15pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Infants, toddlers, and caregivers enjoy songs, movement, finger plays, puppets, and other activities.

WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

NYRR Open Run Baisley Pond Park FREE WHEN: Through Dec. 26: daily, 9am; check-in 8:45 am WHERE: Baisley Pond Park, 156-10 Baisley Blvd., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Acommunity-based, volunteer-led running initiative– bringing free weekly runs and walks to local neighborhood parks.

WANT TO GO? 347-692-0488. facebook.com/ groups/328717541146271.

BRONX 718-597-1500

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.

Long Long Island Island Speech Speech & Myofunctional & Myofunctional Therapy Therapy

Baby Play Date FREE

Music And Movement For Infants And Toddlers FREE

BAY RIDGE 718-491-0900

CALL 1-800 CAN LEARN

WHEN: Jan. 8-Feb. 3, Jan. 8 and Feb. 3, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about the benefits and different methods of meditation.

WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010.

WHEN: Jan. 6-Feb. 24, Mondays, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Queens Library, 25-01 Jackson Ave., Long Island City AGES: Newborn to 2, adult WHAT: Join every Monday afternoon for open play!

WANT TO GO? 718-937-2790. queenslibrary.org.

LYNBROOK 516-568-1900

718-640-6767 • 516-216-1791 www.LIspeech.com

Licensed Speech Pathologists & Myofunctional Therapists Specializing in the Treatment and Correction of: Language Disorders • Memory & Auditory Processing Difficulties • Fluency • • Voice Disorders • Motor Planning Disorders • Deviate Swallowing • Tongue Thrust • • Feeding & Swalling Problems /Aversions • Thumb Sucking • Articulation Disorders • Oral Facial Muscle Weakness •

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Wantagh

Speech Pathology & Swallowing Disorder Services of Nassau 3375 Park Avenue., Suite 4010 Wantagh, NY 11793

516-221-3653

QueensParent 35

AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Build structures using gum drops, marshmallows, and toothpicks.

WANT TO GO? 718-357-6643. queenslibrary.org.

Throw Pillows FREE WHEN: Friday, Jan. 10, 4-5pm WHERE: Queens Library - Hunters Point Branch, 47-40 Center Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Make your own throw pillow to take home.

WANT TO GO? 718-990-4150. queenslibrary.org.

Family Painting: Winter Scene FREE WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 11, 2:30-4pm WHERE: Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Turnpike, Glen Oaks AGES: All WHAT: Paint a canvas with a winter scene. Registration required.

WANT TO GO? 718-831-8636. queenslibrary.org.

Little Makers Toothpick Workshop One: Make a Paper Strip Spinner FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 2, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library - Poppenhusen Branch, 121-23 14th Ave., College Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: You can make a spinner from paper strips and a toothpick!

WANT TO GO? 718-359-1102. queenslibrary.org.

Paint Night FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 6, 6-7:30pm WHERE: Queens Library - Hunters Point Branch, 47-40 Center Blvd., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Practice artistic skills and paint the “subject of the month”!

WANT TO GO? 718-990-4150. queenslibrary.org.

Snowflake Craft FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 7, 3-3:30pm WHERE: Queens Library - Douglaston-Little Neck Branch, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Children will make snowflakes from many materials.

WANT TO GO? 718-225-8414. queenslibrary.org.

Caribbean Arts Festival: Kids DIY Carnival Masks FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 7, 3:30-5pm WHERE: Queens Library - Douglaston-Little Neck Branch, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck AGES: All WHAT: Create amazing fun and festive fabulous carnival masks.

WANT TO GO? 718-225-8414. queenslibrary.org.

Winter Candy Structure FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 8, 4-4:45pm WHERE: Queens Library - East Flushing Branch, 196-36 Northern Blvd., Flushing 36

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Caribbean Arts Festival: Design Your Own T-Shirt FREE WHEN: Monday, Jan. 13, 4-5:15pm WHERE: Queens Library - Rosedale Branch, 144-20 243rd St., Rosedale AGES: All WHAT: Bring a white T-shirts to decorate using colorful paints.

WANT TO GO? 718-528-8490. queenslibrary.org.

Puppetry Workshops: Shadow Journeys WHEN: Jan. 8-15, Jan. 8, Jan. 9, and Jan 15, 6pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Chinese Theatre Works’ teaching artists will lead participants through the entire process of conceiving, crafting, and performing a short overhead projector shadow production.

WANT TO GO? $15; $10 students and members; free for teens ($30 for all three sessions). 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.

Jewelry And Beading FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 4-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library - South Ozone Park Branch, 128-16 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park AGES: All WHAT: Create bracelets and necklaces with colorful beads!

WANT TO GO? 718-529-1660. queenslibrary.org.

Toothpick Workshop Three: Hedgehogs! FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 4:30-5:30pm WHERE: Queens Library - Poppenhusen Branch, 121-23 14th Ave., College Point AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about spiny hedgehogs and create your own!

WANT TO GO? 718-359-1102. queenslibrary.org.

3-D Snowflake Craft FREE WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 16, 3:30-4:15pm WHERE: Queens Village Library, 94-11 217th St., Queens Village AGES: All WHAT: Learn to make a 3D snowflake!

WANT TO GO? 718-776-6800. queenslibrary.org.

Light Up Snowflake Wand Craft FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 22, 4-4:45pm WHERE: Queens Library - East Flushing Branch, 196-36 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 4 and older WHAT: Children will create a snowflake wand that lights up.

WANT TO GO? 718-357-6643. queenslibrary.org.

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Little Cooks: Pickle Party WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Make quick pickles and learn why fermented foods are good for you. Then feed a cucumber to a special animal friend.

WANT TO GO? $22. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.

Private Music Lessons

Jewelry Making Workshop FREE

Most effective way to start piano lessons. Perfect for beginners ages 4-8

WHEN: Jan. 15-Feb. 12, Jan. 15 and Feb. 12, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library - Ridgewood Branch, 20-12 Madison St., Ridgewood AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Join this monthly jewelry making workshop.

WANT TO GO? 718-821-4770. queenslibrary.org.

Origami: The Art Of Paper Folding FREE WHEN: Jan. 2-Feb. 20, every other Thursday, 5:30-6:30pm WHERE: Queens Library - Poppenhusen Branch, 121-23 14th Ave., College Point AGES: All WHAT: Origami, the Japanese art of paper folding, is a great way to get children engaged in math and problem solving.

WANT TO GO? 718-359-1102. queenslibrary.org.

The Hour Of Misfit Crafts FREE WHEN: Jan. 25-Feb. 29, Jan. 25, Feb. 8, and Feb. 29, 2-3pm WHERE: Queens Library - Woodhaven Branch, 85-41 Forest Parkway, Woodhaven AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Make bizarre crafts and spread joy through the world!

WANT TO GO? 718-849-1010. queenslibrary.org.

Needlework FREE WHEN: Jan. 7-May 26, Tuesdays, 4-5pm WHERE: Bayside Library, 214-20 Northern Blvd., Bayside AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Learn needlework. Material is limited.

WANT TO GO? 718-229-1834. queenslibrary.org.

Children Knit & Crochet FREE WHEN: Jan. 7-June 23, Tuesdays, 3-4pm WHERE: Queens Library - Windsor Park Branch, 79-50 Bell Blvd., Bayside AGES: 8-12 WHAT: Children can learn how to knit or crochet! Bring a crochet hook (size G or H) or knitting needles (sizes 7, 8, or 9).

WANT TO GO? 718-468-8300. queenslibrary.org.

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QueensParent 37

social media

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

By Melissa Wickes

38

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.

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.”

Register Now for Our Spring Semester!

Pre-ballet through Level Program Ages 2 to Adult Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre Dance Competition Team Toddler Classes & Playgroups

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718-520-0207 QueensParent 39

kid’s life

Is Your Child Being Cyberbullied?

Learn how to read the signs, and how to help

By Emma Steven

40

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.

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, you love her, and will do your best to help.

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.

openHOUSES 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.

Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School

71-06 31st Ave. E., East Elmhurst 718-898-3800 x2 msgrmcclancy.org At Monsignor McClancy High School, students are offered a holistic education. Join us at 7pm on Wednesday, Jan. 22 for our New Student Reception for both accepted and interested students.

MS 358: The Magnet School of Steam Exploration and Experiential Learning 88-08 164th St., Jamaica 718-558-6240 ms358.org; info@magnetschools.nyc Join us for an open house for aspiring seventh graders on Jan. 28 from 4-6pm. Families will learn how STEAM experiential learning guides students in finding their interests.

Our World Neighborhood Charter School 2

135-25 79th St., Howard Beach 718-392-3405 owncs.org/own2; admissions@owncs.org Please join us at one of our open houses on Jan. 17 at 10am or Jan. 25 at 11am. Contact Lucille Ranchor at 718-392-3405 or email her at admissions@owncs.org.

St. Kevin Catholic Academy

45-50 195th St., Flushing 718-357-8110 stkevinca.org We offer a safe, faith filled environment for nursery to eighth, including Pre-K for All. Join us for an open house on Sunday, Jan. 26 from 11am-2pm.

St. Sebastian Catholic Academy

39-76 58th St., Woodside 718-429-1982 stsebastianacademy.org St. Sebastian Catholic Academy, building strong values. Nursery through eighth grade.

Join us for open houses on Jan. 28 or 29 from 9:30-10:30am or Walk in Wednesdays beginning in February from 9:30-10:30am.

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PARTY

Central

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.

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.

YOURQUEENS.COM

Proudly serving the New York City Tri-State area, Westchester, New Jersey, and Connecticut 917-892-1654 yourqueens.com We are the first registered costume character company depicting the stories of real African kings and queens through storytelling, song, and dance. Now booking for camps, birthday parties, and special events.

Party Places American Dance & Drama

188-22 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village 718-479-8522 americandanceanddrama.net We are one of Queens’s largest and most exciting birthday party locations, offering dress-up, disco, and gymnastics parties. We also offer bubbles and fog machines, cotton candy, plus crazy craft, and princess parties!

Bee You Art Studio

32-43 Francis Lewis Blvd., (inside Bayside Plaza, upper level), Bayside 718-926-9728 beeyouartstudio.com beeyouartstudio@gmail.com Bee You Art Studio offers birthday parties for ages 4 and older! The whole studio is yours for two hours. Parties consist of a step-by-step painting of your choice. We offer canvas paintings, ceramic plates, or mugs.

42

Your local guide to en tertainers, party places, activities, an d other resources.

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.

CK Kids Birthday Parties

68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village 917-602-6271 ctkny.org jmichel@ctkny.org We know your child’s birthday is a special day-so we only book one party at time! Private party room available with two bounce houses, ball pit, disco lighting, cotton candy, face painting, tattoos, music, and games!

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.

Laser Bounce – Family Fun Center

The Shops at Atlas Park, 80-28 Cooper Ave., Glendale 347-599-1919 laserbounce.net Queens’ premiere indoor fun center featuring a gigantic arcade, laser tag, virtual reality, bouncers, 3D Simulator, and bowling. Specializing in private birthday parties for all ages. We have fun for everyone!

Music Together® With Music and Me

Celebrating our new look with our new name!

Wendy DeAngelis, center director (Mommy, Music & Me, Inc. since 2003) Gym-Azing in Astoria Bayside at Shotokai Karate, USA upper level of the Baybridge Commons Shopping Center The Reform Temple of Forest Hills in Forest Hills The Church in The Gardens in Forest Hills Tiger Schulmann’s MMA in Glendale 718-229-0033 musictogetherwithmusicandme.com info@musictogetherwithmusicandme.com We provide unique birthday party musical experiences for first through sixth birthdays. Call us to customize your child’s musical birthday. We can also come to your space.

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Sky Village NYC

23-05 29th St., Astoria 917-608-1658 skyvillagenyc.com skyvillageevents@gmail.com Sky Village NYC offers the best art themed birthday parties in Queens! Our space offers 15-foot high, floor to ceiling windows. Your child’s paint party will feel like a breath of fresh air as your guests enjoy a Zen play space.

Social Play Haus

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

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 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!

SUPERKICKERS

P.S. 69, Jackson Heights 718-350-1535 superkickers.com info@superkickers.com Super kickers party consists of soccer games, bouncy house, two staff members, setup and cleanup, basic color paper goods, pizzas, and juice for each child. Party is for 20 kids plus the birthday child.

USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center

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

Whitestone Lanes

30-05 Whitestone Expressway, Flushing 718-353-6300 whitestonelanes.net We are now booking children and teen birthday parties as well as corporate and team building events for 20192020. Call our party hostess Lisa for more information.

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

QueensParent 43

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

DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS Emanuel Mizrahi D.D.S., PC Forest Hills Orthodontic Associates 110-35 Jewel Ave., Forest Hills 718-897-6666 perfectsmilesareus.com Forest Hills Orthodontic Associates is a premier orthodontic practice with a reputation for patient comfort and compassion. We use the most advanced technology and techniques to ensure excellence of diagnostics and treatment.

DOCTORS AND MEDICAL PROVIDERS 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 Queens: 718-640-6767 Nassau: 516216-1791 Suffolk: 631-689-6858 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 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.

Lisa Macbeth, Financial Advisor

7 Hanover Square, Suite 800 212-764-6262 x-2820 mobile: 646-726-8332

44

noalgoldfarb.com/team lisa_macbeth@natfin.net Lisa Macbeth, M.B.A., non-fee financial planner with 20 years of experience in finance and investments-helping individuals, families, and businesses of all income levels develop realistic financial plans to achieve their dreams.

LEGAL SERVICES Fersch LLC

11 Broadway, Suite 550, Manhattan 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.

The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball

118-35 Queens Blvd., Suite 1220, Forest Hills 718-520-7754 488 Madison Ave., Suite 1120, Manhattan 212-223-4100 ballnyelderlaw.com With more than 25 years of experience The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball focuses on elder law issues, matters affecting the developmentally disabled of all ages, and trust and estate planning options including will preparation and estate administration.

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.

LICE Fairy LiceMothers

2463 South Long Beach Road, Oceanside 866-561-0492 1755 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park

January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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.

SPECIAL NEEDS Able Health Care Service

91-31 Queens Blvd., 6th floor, Elmhurst 718-606-7222 44 Court St., 10th floor (1001), Brooklyn 718-606-7222 ablehealthcare.com info@ablehealthcare.com Able’s special needs-certified home health agency provides comprehensive support to clients and their families with developmental disabilities. Services include: home health aide, therapy, skilled nursing, medical social worker, and nutritional counseling.

The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball

118-35 Queens Blvd., Suite 1220, Forest Hills 718-520-7754 488 Madison Ave., Suite 1120, Manhattan 212-223-4100 ballnyelderlaw.com With more than 25 years of experience The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball focuses on elder law issues, matters affecting the developmentally disabled of all ages, and trust and estate planning options including will preparation and estate administration.

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 Queens: 718-640-6767 Nassau: 516216-1791 Suffolk: 631-689-6858 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.

Lisa Macbeth, Financial Advisor 7 Hanover Square, Suite 800 212-764-6262 x-2820 mobile: 646-726-8332 noalgoldfarb.com/team lisa_macbeth@natfin.net Lisa Macbeth, M.B.A., non-fee

financial planner with 20 years of experience in finance and investments-helping individuals, families, and businesses of all income levels develop realistic financial plans to achieve their dreams.

Sky Village NYC

23-05 29th St., Astoria 917-608-1658 skyvillagenyc.com skyvillageevents@gmail.com We offer classes and open art play opportunities for children with special needs throughout the week! We offer a sensory sensitive environment for your child along with experiences that you will both enjoy such as painting, and making playdough and slime.

THERAPY & COUNSELORS Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C.

114-20 Queens Blvd. Suite CS 2, Forest Hills 180 E. 79th St. Suite 1C, Manhattan 1-888-441-0015 comprehendthemind.com Dr. Sanam Hafeez, an expert in diagnosing and treating all childhood psychological and learning conditions, has a refreshing approach; direct, warm, and competent. These qualities have made her sought after in the field of neuropsychology and child development.

TUTORS & TEST PREP Miss Anita – Private Math Tutor and Advisor

917-477-7953 workinganita@gmail.com Tutoring available for various levels of math: elementary and middle math, algebra 1, algebra 2, geometry, and tests like the GED. Experienced teacher, tutor, and advisor of 23 years who can help students pass any test.

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.

FAMILY RESOURCE GUIDE

Our Editors Find the Best Events for You!

TUTORS

NINA’S TUTORING CENTER Private Tutoring by Experienced Tutors.

For All Grades For All Subjects School Homework All School Tests

Every Thursday, you’ll receive a curated list of the best of what’s happening that weekend—from sports and theater to festivals and petting zoos.

Complies with Common Core Standards

SHSAT, TACHS, SAT, REGENTS, CITY/ STATE WIDE TESTS

• Reading Comprehension and Writing Classes • Math Classes OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • LOOK FOR YELLOW SIGN 87-02 GRAND AVENUE, ELMHURST, NY

Phone: 718-205-7508

NYMETROPARENTS.COM/NEWSLETTER

92-22 CORONA AVENUE, ELMHURST, NY

Phone: 718-606-1056

index Acrobatics / Gymnastics All Star Studio................................................. 37

Birthday / Party Services Sky Village NYC ............................................. 21 Whitestone Lanes .......................................... 29

Camps Adventure Childcare Center ........................... 10 All Star Studio................................................. 37 Archbishop Molloy High School ..................... 29 Beautiful Minds Childcare .............................. 29 Commonpoint Queens Samuel Field Center -Early Childhood ............................................. 19 Countryside Montessori School ...................... 11 Further Music Studio ...................................... 37 Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp .................. 11 Hofstra Summer Camps ................................. 13 Kon Gen International Preschool ...................... 2 Magic Day Camp ........................................... 48 Mill Basin Day Camp ...................................... 24 Rose Academy of Ballet .................................. 39 Serendipity Art School .................................... 17 Sky Village NYC ............................................. 21 Superkicker Sports Corporation ...................... 23 Windsor School (The) ..................................... 19 World of Discovery Camp .............................. 39

Child Care / Day Care Adventure Childcare Center ........................... 10 Beautiful Minds Childcare .............................. 29 Commonpoint Queens Samuel Field Center -Early Childhood ............................................. 19 Kon Gen International Preschool ...................... 2 Stepping Stone Day School ............................ 21

Renascent Institute ......................................... 10 Rose Academy of Ballet .................................. 39 Serendipity Art School .................................... 17 Sky Village NYC ............................................. 21

Health

Dance

Home Services

All Star Studio................................................. 37 Rose Academy of Ballet .................................. 39

Developmental Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.......... 35 Stepping Stone Day School ............................ 21

Education Adventure Childcare Center ........................... 10 Archbishop Molloy High School ..................... 29 Beautiful Minds Childcare .............................. 29 Commonpoint Queens Samuel Field Center -Early Childhood ............................................. 19 Comprehensive Consultation Psychological ...... 5 Countryside Montessori School ...................... 11 Gooroo .......................................................... 47 Huntington Learning Center .......................... 35 Kon Gen International Preschool ...................... 2 LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................ 29 Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School ....31 NYC Dept of ED - Middle School 358 ............... 3 Our World Neighborhood School ................... 17 Renascent Institute ......................................... 10 St. John’s Preparatory Catholic High School..... 24 St. Kevin’s Catholic Academy ......................... 33 St. Sebastian School ....................................... 33 Stepping Stone Day School ............................ 21 Windsor School (The) ..................................... 19

Family Entertainment / Events / Outings Whitestone Lanes .......................................... 29

Classes Further Music Studio ...................................... 37 LIU Center for Gifted Youth............................ 29

Fitness Superkicker Sports Corporation ...................... 23

Comprehensive Consultation Psychological ...... 5 Emanuel Mizrahi DDS PC Forest Hills Orthodontic Associates ...................................................... 13

Gooroo .......................................................... 47

Music Further Music Studio ...................................... 37

Performing Arts / Acting Magic Day Camp ........................................... 48

Religious Archbishop Molloy High School ..................... 29 Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School ....31 St. John’s Preparatory Catholic High School..... 24 St. Kevin’s Catholic Academy ......................... 33 St. Sebastian School ....................................... 33

Retail Tinker Active .................................................. 43

Special Needs Comprehensive Consultation Psychological ...... 5 Huntington Learning Center .......................... 35 Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech.......... 35 Sky Village NYC ............................................. 21

Sports Magic Day Camp ........................................... 48 Superkicker Sports Corporation ...................... 23 Whitestone Lanes .......................................... 29

Tutors Gooroo .......................................................... 47 Huntington Learning Center .......................... 35 Renascent Institute ......................................... 10 Windsor School (The) ..................................... 19

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

QueensParent 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.”

—Cynthia Barron, Brooklyn

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

“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

Connect with us 46

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January 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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CONFIDENCE

IN THE MAKING Connecting you to the best tutors to bring out the best in your child.

300+ Subjects Math English SAT/ACT Coding Science $50 Credit Towards Your First Month of Tutoring Code: BAP19 www.gooroo.com 646-791-3081

Official vendor of

QueensParent 47

Magic Day Camp

WE ACCEPT G PARTICIPATIN S UNION

PAYM E PLAN NT AVAI S LABL E

” ! l a c i g a M s i y a D “Where Every FREE Door to Door Transportation

Daily Swimming at Country Club Pool with instruction

2-8 Week Sessions Available • Daily Hot & Cold Lunches with Special BBQ and Pizza Days Included

Owned Family ed for at & Oper Years 0 Over 3

AIR-CONDITIONED Buses!!!

• Daily Swimming at a Private Country Club Pool with Instruction • Organized Sports • Professional Tennis Instruction • Arts & Crafts • Full Dance & Drama Program • 3 Exciting Trips Every Week • Spacious Outdoor & Indoor Play Areas with Air Conditioning We t Accep 9 119

OPEN HOUSE EVE NT: Sunday, February 16th 12 - 3pm Early Drop Off and Extended Day at Jib Lanes LICENSED PROFESSIONAL SUPERVISION Convenient Bayside Location Children Ages 4 to 15

We Can Be Reached at (718) 634-8109 • www.magicdaycamp.com