QueensParent JUNE 2017
NYMETROPARENTS.COM
Unexpected Ways to
Have Fun This Summer Plus: Top Beaches and Amusement Parks
Sick in Summertime Childhood ailments to watch out for this season
c
Last Call for the
2017 Kids Cover Contest See your child here
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NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions
Contents
June 2017 ››
17
Features
17 Unexpected Summer Fun Unique, unusual, and off-the-beaten-path things to do in NYC
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28 The Summertime Health Blues How to avoid—or beat—six childhood ailments that commonly strike during the warmer months 48 Grilling with Chef John Stage Tips for cooking on the barbecue from a grill master—just in time for a Father’s Day feast 50 It’s Never Too Early to Prevent Drug Abuse With changing laws and attitudes about recreational marijuana, it’s more important than ever for parents to talk to their kids about drug use.
Connections
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48
Family Activities CALENDAR ››
6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 11 NYMP Q&A: Diaper Dude’s Chris Pegula talks dads’ roles in parenthood. 13 Mommybites Tip of the Month 30 Voices of the Next Generation: My family celebrates the Muslim holiday Eid al-Fitr, which takes place in June this year— here’s why it’s so special to me 66 Voices: How we, a gay couple with two adopted sons, raised our kids during changing times
Fun & Activities
12 Last Chance to Enter the Cover Contest 14 Humor: Happy Father’s Day to the Fellas! 32 Outing: Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey 35 Family Activities Calendar 46 Where-To Guide: Beaches 47 Where-To Guide: Amusement Parks
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Original photo by PhotoOp NYC (photoopnyc.com) Clothing provided by Appaman (appaman.com)
Directories 52 61 62 63 64 64 65
Camp #SnapShots Open Houses Professional Services Party Central Meet the Health Care Professional Family Resource Guide Advertisers’ Index
››
ON THE COVER ›› 12 Last Call for the 2017 Kids Cover Contest 17 Unexpected Ways to Have Fun This Summer facebook.com/nymetroparents
28 Sick in Summertime
@NYMetroParents
46 Beaches
47 Amusement Parks
Visit NYMETROPARENTS.COM for family activities updated daily and more than 2,000 parenting articles!
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JUNE 2017 • Vol.22 • No.12
NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens
EDITOR’S NOTE
SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf REGIONAL EDITORS: Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Emma Steven (Manhattan); Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERN: Sabrina Sooknanan
Hidden Gems, Happy Days D
ADVERTISING SALES
Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 Jessica Leonhardt, Jeunesse Jackson, Linda Pierce
id you know you can see wild parakeets in Brooklyn? Visit a museum housed in an old freight elevator in Manhattan? Play on a former landfill on Staten Island? We at NYMetroParents pride ourselves on knowing all about how to have fun with kids around New York City, but to kick off summer, we decided to dig deeper. So Katelin Walling took on the challenging assignment of uncovering our region’s hidden gems—and found many exciting options we hadn’t known before. See her round-up of the best unexpected ways to have fun this summer (p. 17), and then get out and start exploring! Unfortunately, we all sometimes have to cancel fun plans to run our children to the doctor—their illnesses, ailments, and injuries certainly don’t take the summer off. That’s not unusual, as I learned from Stacey Pfeffer’s report on children’s summertime health issues (p. 28). From Coxsackie virus to athlete’s foot to lice, we offer advice on how to prevent summertime ailments, and failing that, how to treat them. June marks the end of our Kids Cover Contest, so make sure to enter your child before it’s too late! Submissions close June 9. Head to nymetroparents.com/cover and follow the directions there to upload a photo and enter the contest. Ten finalists will participate in a professional photo shoot, and any of them may appear on upcoming magazine covers. Two grand-prize winners will be guaranteed cover spots and will win awesome prizes—a family vacation at Kalahari water park or a Barbizon modeling scholarship. And once you’ve entered, don’t forget to get your friends and family to vote! The Fan Favorite—the child with the most votes—will be one of the 10 finalists (the others are chosen by our editors) and will win tickets to Sesame Place. There is so much to celebrate in June! Summer officially starts, graduations take place, and we’ll salute Dad on Father’s Day. If you’re planning a barbecue as part of your celebration, make sure to check out our tips—and recipes—for grilling meals everyone will love (p. 48). Plus, in our Voices column, dads Rod Howe and Mark Pedersen—who met and fell in love more than 30 years ago and are grandparents today—look back on parenting their sons during an era of changing attitudes about gay parents (p. 66). Muslims also are celebrating one of their biggest holidays of the year, Eid al-Fitr (which falls on different dates every year but in 2017 is in June); 12-year-old Farah Husain, a student at Manhattan’s Trinity School, shows us how she and her family celebrate this joyous festival (p. 30). If you have a unique personal story to tell about life as a parent, we want to hear from you: Submit essays (600800 words) to NYMPWriter@davlermedia.com. Happy Father’s Day to all you dads out there, and wishing all the best to our region’s graduates! Michael Kress Editorial Director, NYMetroParents
Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Ellen Klein Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Merrill Sugarman, Mary Wender Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Ellen Klein, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager, Dani Pollack Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Lisa Herlihy, Karen Shapiro To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATORS: Ray C. Guédez, Leonard Porter DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro ADMINISTRATION MANAGER: Erin Jordan
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR | PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Robert Reynolds DIRECTOR | DIGITAL CONTENT DEVELOPMENT: Sara Wentworth
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CREDIT MANAGER: Elizabeth Teagarden CREDIT ASSISTANTS: Rosa Meinhofer, Diedra Smith EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT: Barbara Byrd
Davler Media Group CEO: David L. Miller General Manager: Thomas K. Hanlon 498 Seventh Ave., 10th Floor, New York, NY 10018 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239
nymetroparents.com davlermedia.com nybarbatmitzvah.com
Keep in Touch: nymetroparents.com editor@nymetroparents.com
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NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS
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Who: Rainbow Child Development Center What’s New: Summer camps for children ages 4-6, plus a violin program for children ages 3½ and older. The camps will be held at Rainbow Child Development Center locations in Flushing, Fresh Meadows, and Little Neck from July 3-Aug. 25. “The kids in the summer program will enjoy engaging and entertaining day trips, learn valuable academic and life-readiness skills, and engage their creative side by participating in the arts and music,” says Christine Ye, Rainbow Child Development Center director. The violin program started at Flushing locations in March, and will expand to other centers in the fall. Want More Info: See website for locations; info@rainbowchildlearning.com; rainbowchildlearning.com
Courtesy Rainbow Child Development Center
Educational Child Care Center Adds Summer Camps
Rainbow Child Development Center provides child care and educational services for newborns to 6-year-olds.
Who: Rose Academy of Ballet What’s New: A four-week dance intensive for students ages 8-12. The dance intensive will meet Mondays and Wednesdays, from July 3-28. Students will focus on classical ballet, jazz, tap, and musical theater and drama. “We like to call it a triple-threat summer intensive,” says Melissa Wilson, program director. “The students will sing, they will dance, and they will act.” Wilson has a MFA from Tisch School of the Arts and was a member of regional dance companies in NYC and the East Coast. Want More Info: 70-11 Austin St., Forest Hills; 718-520-0207; racademyofballet@gmail.com; roseacademyofballet.com
Kari O’Tero
Ballet Academy to Launch Summer Intensive
Students in the summer dance intensive will focus on classical ballet, jazz, tap, and more.
Who: LIC Dental Associates What’s New: More staff, office renovations, and extended hours, all of which were added within the last year. LIC Dental Associates now consists of four dentists and an on-staff anesthesiologist. The office opened in October 2015 and has added three additional treatment rooms. It also has separate waiting rooms for kids and adults. “The children’s waiting room is a superhero theme,” says Ishwinder Saran, D.M.D., practice founder. LIC Dental Associates treats children and adults and is now offering extended hours Monday-Saturday. Want More Info: 50-02 5th St., Suite B, Long Island City; 347-537-6172; licdentalassociates.com
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June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Courtesy LIC Dental Associates
Dental Office in LIC Expands Offerings
LIC Dental Associates has a separate waiting room for kids, which has a superhero theme.
at Barnes & Noble this Summer MUST-READS for YOUNG READERS
Favorite Paperbacks
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FREE BOOK Ask a bookseller for details. Offer ends 9/5/17.
All offers subject to availability, while supplies last. *Lowest-priced qualifying paperback in the transaction shall be free. **Excludes titles priced $4.95 or less. Excludes digital editions.
Visit your local store or shop BN.com for these savings and much more. QueensParent
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UOTABLES I was watching Finding Nemo with Marlowe the other day, and there was an exchange between Dory and Nemo’s father that I hadn’t ever paid close attention to before. Nemo’s father tells Dory, anxiously, “But I told him I’d never let anything happen to him!” Dory replies, “But then nothing would ever happen to him.” And there it is. Letting go is hard, but wishing for a full, vibrant, messy, beautiful life for both of my children is a lot louder than my fear. I can guarantee I will never stop trying to fight for that. —Eva Amurri Martino, in a post entitled “Parenting a Rainbow Baby,” on her blog HappilyEvaAfter.com
in an instagram Nothing beats the big smiles of a few hours well spent in a playground. (Posted by @dadarocks, aka Adam Cohen, who blogs at dadarocks.com)
WRITE IT DOWN….TOGETHER
in an instagram I love this photo. It was taken right after a very serious conversation where I explained that it’s time to stop eating her boogers.....at least in public #loosingbattle She’s really struggling with this mandate. (Posted by @mochamommy_nyc, aka Nia Lawrence, who blogs at mochamommyinthecity.com)
“You also never know how much a kind glance or a few words can mean to a mom. Several years ago, we were in a restaurant and desperate to subdue Max, who was wailing loudly. Finally, we distracted him with a video. I felt drained and sad. A mom at another table caught my eye. “You OK?” she mouthed. And that was exactly the comfort I needed.” —Ellen Seidman, in a post entitled “Stop the Special Needs Mom Shaming,” on her blog LoveThatMax.com
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June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
“If you want to know what’s going on in your child’s head, you need to discuss things beyond, ‘How was school today?’ When you journal together, you can write about things like: ‘What is my biggest dream?’ and ‘What was my recent mistake and what have I learned from it?’ These are important conversational questions that are not typically asked at the dinner table.” —Stamford, CT, mom Alexandra Eidens in an article entitled “Why You Should Start Journaling With Your Child.” Read the whole thing at nymetroparents.com/journal.
MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: CELEBRATE DAD: Tips for making Father’s Day extra special (nymetroparents.com/fathers-day) DAY TRIP: Visit Hyde Park, home of President Franklin Roosevelt (nymetroparents.com/hyde-park). ACTIVITY QUIZ: Plan the perfect day for your family (nymetroparents.com/activity-quiz). FREE ADVICE: Download a helpful parenting guide at nymetroparents.com/freebies.
NYMP Q&A
You Got It, Dude! C
››
By Bethany Braun-Silva
hris Pegula is the founder of Diaper Dude, a brand of diaper bags and accessories for dads. His second book, Diaper Dude: The Ultimate Dad’s Guide to Surviving the First Two Years was recently published.
Why did you want to write a book for dads about parenthood? I felt that if there was something geared toward men it would help them feel more secure and confident in wanting to be prepared. Both of my books were written about approaching parenthood from a more emotional point of view and preparing men emotionally for the journey ahead. I give tips on how to not lose your identity when you become a parent; you throw yourself into this parenting world but it’s still important to nurture yourself and your relationships. There are plenty of books that tell you how a baby or pregnancy is developing, but I didn’t feel there was something that addressed the emotional things that men go through or how to be there for their partner or how to feel secure enough as a father for the first time or how to put on that dad role and still maintain your individual role as the person that you were. How have dads’ roles evolved? They have changed dramatically, and I felt that when I became a parent myself. I thought, “Why wouldn’t more dads want to be more involved?” So many women have gone back into the workforce after having children and solidified their positions as more powerful and financially stable then their counterparts, so there are more stay-at-home dads today. It’s exciting and tremendous to see that shift happening. What was the most challenging thing for you in your children’s early years? I have so much love for my children that it was almost to a fault. The love can confuse and alter your decisions as a parent; you just want to do anything and everything for your children. But I feel like being able to be strong with your discipline and set boundaries and establish your role as a parent is important so that you can set an example for what you expect from your children. It was challenging for me because I was kind of a pushover. My wife would be the first to say, “You need to be more stringent as a dad.” What are some ways dads can feel more involved? Having something that gives you confidence is so important and a great way for dad to get more involved in parenting. That’s where the ideas of the diaper bags came from. It helped to establish the connection that dads belong. Pregnancy can be especially difficult to connect to your baby because, after all, it’s growing inside of your partner. She’s experiencing everything and everyone is falling over her and congratulating her, and until you actually hold that baby in your arms, it can be very difficult to feel connected. I think products for dad that get him involved absolutely give him the feeling that he has a purpose and that he can be involved early on.
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PhotoOp
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››
H
undreds of local parents have already entered the 2017 Kids Cover Contest, hoping for a chance to see their child or teen on our magazine cover. Are you one of them? If not, what are you waiting for? The contest is open to kids ages 2-16 and closes June 9. This year, 10 finalists will participate in a professional photo shoot: Nine of them are chosen by our editors and the 10th is the Fan Favorite—the child with the most votes. So once you’ve entered, be sure to spread the word for your friends and families to vote! Our editors will choose two grand-prize winners from among the finalists, and both will be featured on upcoming covers of the magazine. One will also win a photo shoot from Barbizon and a one-year scholarship to Barbizon Modeling and Acting School, while the other will get a free two-night stay at Kalahari Resorts in the Poconos, the largest indoor
The finalists from last year’s Kids Cover Contest
water park in the U.S. The Fan Favorite will get four free tickets to Sesame Place, and all finalists have a chance to be on future covers. To enter, go to nymetroparents.com/cover. You’ll be asked to upload a photo of your child and you can add a caption, if you like. We’ll ask for your child’s name and age and for some information on how to contact you if your child is a finalist.
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June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
MOMMYBITES TIP OF THE MONTH
Create a Nanny Guidebook
››
Our friends at Mommybites are offering a monthly tip to help parents who employ—or are considering hiring—nannies. “Provide your nanny with a written ‘guidebook’ containing summaries of your family’s schedule, routines, and preferences. Make sure she has appropriate contact information. Does she know what to do in an emergency? Does she have allergy information? Jot down where she can find favorite snacks or treasured loveys in the event of a potential meltdown. Give her a neighborhood map and a list of age-appropriate activities that she can take the children to during the day. Leave a list of playdate contacts. Any information that you can provide to help her adjust to life in your ‘town’ will go a long way toward making her feel more capable in her new job.”
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Mommybites’ mom-generated nanny board and babysitting boards have been some of the most popular child-care sites in New York City for more than 10 years! See more at mommybites.com
Last Spots Going Fast!
QueensParent 13
© 2016 Alison Wong
HUMOR
Happy Father’s Day to the Fellas! Alison Wong is the writer and illustrator of New Mom Comics: The First Year, which offers a humorous and relatable take on the wild journey of parenting. “Daddy’s first Father’s Day! Having a little one makes you love your husband in a whole new way and more!” Wong writes in her book. Anyone celebrating Father’s Day this June will appreciate Wong’s illustration on what makes dads so great. Alison Wong is an illustrator, product designer, and innovation consultant. She lives in the San Francisco Bay area with her husband and son. Visit newmomcomics.com for more.
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June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
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June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
37 things to do in New York City that are unique, unusual, and off the beaten path
Katelin Walling
D E T C E P UNEX Fu n r e m m Su By Katelin Walling
W
e live near (what is arguably) the greatest city in the United States, with its dozens of museums and cultural institutions, landmarks, and historical sites. Yet, sometimes it can feel like you visit those kid-friendly locations too often already, and the thought of schlepping the kids there for the nth time is draining. Let’s face it: You and your kids are bored—itching for a new adventure. Now what? We scoured the city and created a scavenger hunt of 37 unique, unusual, or off-the-beaten-path things to do, see, or explore with your kids. If you post photos of your adventures on Instagram, make sure you tag us @NYMetroParents, and let us know if you find anything we should add to our list! continued on next page ››
The Fearless Girl statue will remain facing the Charging Bull in the Financial District of Manhattan through February 2018.
Each year Randall’s Island Urban Farm purchases 10 chicks to raise in the garden.
Steve Baldwin
Courtesy Randall’s Island Park Alliance
At Brooklyn Cat Café, run by Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition, families can play and hang out with adoptable cats.
Courtesy Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition Inc.
Giacomo Francia, courtesy the artists
Pinkie, a talking parrot from Pet Resources in the Bronx, is drawn by students at the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in Astoria, Queens, on March 8 as part of Lenka Clayton and Jon Rubin: ...circle through New York.
Several wild monk parakeets (aka Quaker Parrots) mob a bird feeder in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.
Hang with Animals without Going to the Zoo Get a hug from a golden retriever. If you’re walking around Chelsea in Manhattan, and you see a dog giving hugs, go ahead; stop and see if you can get a hug, too. Louboutina, or as her fans call her Loubie, became a social media sensation earlier this year for clinging to the legs of passersby. As with all dogs, make sure you ask her owner if it’s okay to get some puppy lovin’.
Hang out with adoptable kitties. Love felines but can’t have one due to an allergy in the family or a strict landlord? Head to 1 of 3 cat cafés in New York City, where you can enjoy snacks, play with cats, or cuddle with the adoptable felines while you read a book: Koneko Cat Café and Meow Parlour, both located on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, or Brooklyn Cat Café, located in Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn. Reservations are not needed but strongly recommended to guarantee time with the kitties. Visit nymetroparents.com/cat-cafes for information about what you’ll find at each location.
Go on a safari in Midwood, Brooklyn.
See all the animals mentioned in the Torah.
A Wild Parrot Safari, that is. Wild monk parakeets live near the Brooklyn College campus, and multiple sources have confirmed that they either escaped or were released from JFK airport, likely in the late 1960s, according to Steve Baldwin, who leads the tours. Participants gather at Brooklyn College, at the intersection of Hillel Place and Campus Road, and will be led on a tour to see and learn about the parrots. Summer tours are scheduled for Saturdays, June 3, July 1, and Aug. 12. Visit brooklynparrots.com to learn more and to RSVP for a tour date.
You can see every beast, great and small, named in the Hebrew Bible in taxidermy form at Torah Animal World, located at 1601 41st St., Borough Park, Brooklyn (torahanimalworld.com). Exhibits include Animals of the Torah, Birds of the Torah, and Animals of the Tefillah (prayer).
Become one with a brood. Every year the folks at Randall’s Island Urban Farm purchase 10 chicks and raise them in the garden. You can hang out with the chickens during Urban Farm Exploration Days on Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-5pm, through Oct. 14. Visit randallsisland.org for more information.
Spot the red-eared sliders in Central Park. I used to think the lake at the Loeb Boathouse was Turtle Pond, until I took the time to wander around Central Park and found myself near Belvedere Castle. That’s where Turtle Pond, a smaller, more secluded pond, is located (mid-park, between 79th and 80th streets). The man-made pond is home to five species of turtles, the easiest of which to identify is the red-eared slider—it has small red spots near its ears. See how many you and your kids can find.
Courtesy @governor_max
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You can follow Max’s adventures on Instagram @governor_max.
Talk to a parrot. Pinkie, a salmon-crested cockatoo from Pet Resources in the Bronx, will spend June at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, July at St. Philips Church in Harlem, Manhattan, and will return home in August, as part of …circle through New York, a unique project of circulating things commissioned as part of Guggenheim Social Practice. For more information about the project, and what Pinkie will be doing at each location, visit circlethroughnewyork.com.
YMCA SUMMER DAY CAMPS
Say “Hi” to Max on Governors Island. Governors Island (govisland.com) used to have a problem with too many goose droppings on the lawns—until Max, a border collie, was hired in 2015. Max’s job on the island, apart from being an official greeter, is to herd and discourage geese from hanging out to ensure the enjoyment and safety of guests. Jim Reed, the director of park and public space for Governors Island, adopted Max from the Mid Atlantic Border Collie Rescue Program in Maryland. Visitors are encouraged to take pictures, and are allowed to say hi if Max is not actively herding. continued on next page ››
YMCANYC.ORG/CAMPS
Long Island City YMCA QueensParent 19
Nina LoSchiavo
NYC Parks
Originally built in the mid-19th century as part of the Croton Aqueduct system, High Bridge opened in 2015 as a pedestrian walkway.
Activities for the Adventurous Explore the Gowanus Canal. Join the Gowanus Dredgers Canoe Club (gowanuscanal.org) for a self-guided canoe trip of the Gowanus Canal during walkup canoeing. The canoe trips aim to raise awareness of harbor issues, and you may even see such wildlife as ducks, herons, horseshoe crabs, fiddler crabs, and jellyfish. Walk-up canoeing is held Wednesdays, 6-8pm, MaySeptember, and Saturdays, 1-5pm, JuneOctober. Canoeing and equipment use is free, though donations are accepted, and no reservation is needed. Meet the club at the 2nd Street Launch Site: 165 2nd St., Gowanus, Brooklyn.
Let your kids play in a junkyard. No, not an actual junkyard! This summer, Governors Island (govisland.com) will again be home to play:groundNYC, a junkyard playground that gives young adventurers the opportunity to work with tools and building materials to explore physical, social, and emotional problem solving. Don’t
Pia Peterson ©2017
Children participating in canoeing with the Gowanus Dredgers Canoe Club must have a waiver signed by a parent.
Courtesy the Trust for Governors Island
Located at 61 Hester Street, Lower East Side, Manhattan, this mural was painted by Jessica Blowers as part of the 100 Gates Project.
The junkyard area of play:groundNYC on Governors Island, for kids only, is filled with materials and tools such as nails, hammers, saws, wood, tires, and fabric for children to create and play.
worry, though, trained staff provides support to help children construct and create. Play:groundNYC is free and open to the public through Oct. 1, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-3pm.
Bike, scoot, or walk across NYC’s oldest bridge. Built in the mid-19th century as a part of the Croton Aqueduct system, which carried water from the Croton River in Westchester to Manhattan, High Bridge is now a pedestrian walkway that connects Washington Heights in Manhattan and Highbridge in the Bronx. It’s accessible in Manhattan via a staircase in Highbridge Park (West 172nd Street and Amsterdam Avenue) or a ramp at 167th Street and Edgecombe Avenue; and in the Bronx at University Avenue and 170th Street, or a ramp north of there.
Whisper secrets to each other in Central Park. While most of us know about the Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Station, a lesser-known place to whisper
to each other is at the Charles B. Stover Bench—colloquially known as the “Whisper Bench” because if you whisper into one corner, your voice travels to the other side—in the Shakespeare Garden in Central Park (located on the west side between 79th and 80th streets).
Go on an art walk. In an effort to deter graffiti artists and beautify the Lower East Side, the 100 Gates Project—started by local artist and pro skateboarder Billy Rohan in 2014—connects local artists with businesses to collaborate on original murals that are painted on the roll-down security gates of those businesses. Over two years the project installed 100 gates throughout the Lower East Side of Manhattan, and currently has plans to expand to Harlem and Staten Island. Visit 100gates.nyc for more information and to find a map of the participating businesses.
Get your fortune told. A 1907 Cleveland Grandma, who sits in a wooden booth at Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park in Coney Island, Brooklyn,
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Offering Classes in: Ballet Tap Wonder what your future holds? Ask Grandma, located at Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park in Coney Island, Brooklyn.
has been predicting fortunes for almost 100 years. When her booth first opened, predictions were 1 cent, but due to inflation, they now cost a whopping 50 cents. Visit wonderwheel.com for more information about Deno’s.
Zip through the air in Glendale. Families can zipline, rock climb, or air jump at Zip Jump Climb, stationed at The Shops at Atlas Park (8000 Cooper Ave., Glendale), for just $10 each, but only through July 9. Visit zipjumpclimb.com to reserve your adventure. continued on next page ››
Jazz/Contemporary Hip Hop Acrobatics
Summer Dance Intensive
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Come Try ry Our NEW IImprov Dance Class! r QueensParent 21
Courtesy Black Tap
Katelin Walling
Hippo Ballerina will leave Manhattan’s Lincoln Center July 31
Katelin Walling
Black Tap milkshakes are piled high with goodies; pictured are Sweet N’ Salty, Cotton Candy, and The Cookie Shake.
Susan Gardner has been affixing items to her brownstone since just after 9/11 to create this amazing mural in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn.
Do It for the ’Gram
Stand with Fearless Girl
Snap a photo of the sunset.
The Fearless Girl statue appeared suddenly in Manhattan’s Financial District for International Women’s Day and immediately became a symbol of female strength and confidence. Snap a pic of your own fierce females posing with Fearless Girl this summer, if you haven’t already. While there has been controversy surrounding Fearless Girl (because of a plaque that used to be at her feet, and backlash from the artist of the Charging Bull), she is sticking around through February 2018, according to NY Daily News.
#DanceWithHippoBallerina
Indulge in over-the-top milkshakes.
But not just any sunset. Unique to Manhattan, Manhattanhenge— when the sunset is perfectly aligned with the grid of the streets in Manhattan—will occur twice this summer. If you miss the May 30 (8:12pm) sunset, mark your calendars for July 12 at 8:20pm. The best streets to get breath-taking photos are 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, and 57th, according to famed astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, Ph.D. Just make sure to be as far east as possible, while having a clear sightline west, and be in position 30 minutes before the above times. The installation of artist Bjorn Skaarup’s bronze statue has been dancing outside Lincoln Center since February, and will remain until July 31. Jeté over to Dante Park (at 64th Street and Broadway) on the Upper West Side of Manhattan to ’gram your tiny dancers before she disappears.
Milkshakes have taken over Instagram. No, not your classic milkshakes—we’re talking indulgent, over-the-top, work-of-art milkshakes from Buns Bar, located in Chelsea, Manhattan, and Black Tap, located in Soho, Manhattan. We won’t try to describe these treats with words—we’ll let the pictures do the talking.
Katelin Walling
Eat cereal out of a shoebox.
Enjoy a bowl of the traditional breakfast meal for lunch at KITH Treats, a cereal “bar” at which you can order up a combination of your favorite cereals (there are 23 different cereals to choose from) with choice toppings, or choose one of the specials. Plus, you choose how you eat it: in a commuter cup, a shoebox, or as a custom ice cream flavor or milkshake. KITH Treats is located within KITH Brooklyn (233 Flatbush Ave., Boerum Hill, Brooklyn), a clothing store founded by Queens native Ronnie Fieg.
Revel in the beauty of the mosaic house.
The Flat White, Cinnamon Toast Crunch with toffee crunch and almond milk, served in a shoebox at KITH Treats in Boerum Hill, Brooklyn
Katelin Walling
Stop by and see what treasures you can find affixed to the façade of a Brooklyn Brownstone. Susan Gardner, creator and inhabitant of the mosaic house, began affixing items to her brownstone after 9/11 because she didn’t want to be alone in her studio, she says in a Moonshot Productions New Yorkers video. The house is located at 108 Wyckoff St., Boerum Hill, Brooklyn.
Visit a locksmith.
Even if you don’t need keys made, you’ll want to stop by Greenwich Locksmiths to see an amazing key mosaic on the shop’s façade. Owner Philip Mortillaro, who started locksmithing in 1964 and opened this location in 1980, says he had always wanted to make a chair out of keys, and when that was accomplished, he started on his door and then moved onto the building itself. Greenwich Locksmiths is located at 56 Seventh Ave. S., West Village, Manhattan.
Courtesy Buns Bar
Philip Mortillaro, owner of Greenwich Locksmiths welded the key mosaic on the façade of his shop, as well as the chair sitting out front, and the inside of the door.
Call on the Ghostbusters!
Buns Bar adds artistic flair to its milkshakes by decorating the mug with frosting, cookies, cereals, and candies.
Well, actually, the firehouse that was used as the Ghostbusters’ home base in the 1984 movie. Hook and Ladder No. 8, located at 14 N. Moore St., Tribeca, Manhattan, was used for the exterior shots of Ghostbusters HQ, and the logo sign used in the movies still hangs in the station today. This is a working firehouse, so be prepared to move quickly if the firefighters are called into action. continued on next page ››
Courtesy Randall’s Island Park Alliance NYC Parks
Families can learn about agriculture during Urban Farm Exploration Days on Randall’s Island.
Explore Nature Explore the Urban Farm on Randall’s Island.
Courtesy Maria Viljoen
Families can ride their bikes around Freshkills Park on Staten Island during Discovery Day on June 4.
Home to Icahn Stadium and the site of Governor’s Ball music festival, Randall’s Island (randallsisland.org) is also home to an urban farm. Families can experience and learn about agriculture at the 40,000-square-foot environmentally sustainable garden and outdoor classroom during Urban Farm Exploration Days on Saturdays and Sundays, 11am-5pm, through Oct. 14.
Get a taste of the Adirondack Mountains in Manhattan.
Explore the North Woods of Central Park—one of the most secluded areas of the park—where the landscape isn’t manicured (located on the west side, between 101st and 110th streets). The highlight of the 90-acre section of the park is the man-made waterfalls— contrary to TLC’s advice, these are ones you definitely should chase.
Get your green thumb a little dirty.
A young forager on one of Marie Viljoen’s walks picked some dandelions, which are good for digestion, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
Bushwick City Farms is a community farm that relies on donations and help from volunteers of all ages to run. So if you want to work in a garden but don’t have the space for your own, you can stop by on Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30pm to dusk, to help with and learn about composting, animal care,
transplanting, weeding, garden cleanup, spreading wood chips, and other garden tasks. There are also opportunities to donate items and time in other ways. Bushwick City Farms is located at Lewis Avenue and Stockton Street, Bushwick, Brooklyn. Visit bushwickcityfarm. wordpress.com for more information.
Go on a foraging walk.
Did you know you can find edible plants in NYC’s parks? “Wildman” Steve Brill and Marie Viljoen offer foraging walks in various parks in the city to point out which plants—most of which are often thought of as weeds and destroyed—can be used in everyday cooking. Visit wildmanstevebrill.com or 66squarefeet. blogspot.com for more information and to sign up for a walk.
Play on an old landfill on Staten Island.
Freshkills Park is a new park being built over NYC’s former primary landfill on Staten Island. Opening in phases from the outside in, the park currently offers programs and events to learn about and explore currently closed sections of the landfill-to-park project. Events include Discovery Day on June 4, a bike tour on June 10, and kayak tours for ages 16 and older on June 18 and July 16 and 30. Visit freshkillspark.org for more information.
Courtesy Bushwick City Farms
REDEEMER LUTHERAN SCHOOL A great family school where learners thrive
Bushwick City Farm’s motto is “Give what you can, take what you need,” and all produce at the farm is free for community members.
Visit the largest rooftop soil farm in the city.
Brooklyn Grange’s Flagship farm hosts open houses on Saturdays (May 20-Oct. 21, 11am-4pm), but families should be sure to visit May 20, June 17, July 15, Aug. 19, or Sept. 16 for Family Farm Day, when City Growers, an educational nonprofit that connects urban communities with agriculture, food, and environment, hosts free family-friendly workshops and children’s activities geared toward children ages 2 and older at Brooklyn Grange. Family Farm Day activities vary, and are typically announced via City Growers’ social media—Instagram and Twitter: CityGrowersNYC; Facebook: City Growers. The flagship farm is located on the roof of 37-18 Northern Blvd., Long Island City. Visit brooklyngrangefarm.com to learn more.
Come join us at one of these
Now Accepting Applications for 2017-2018
Thursday, May 25th 6-8PM Saturday, June 10th 10AM-1PM
At Redeemer Lutheran School, we partner with families to nurture students in the mind AND spirit.
OPEN HOUSE DATES
Admissions exam for students entering grades 1-8.
Our caring faculty prepares students with rigorous and stimulating academics, and 90% of our graduates are accepted into their first and second choice high schools.
At all open houses, you will tour the school, meet faculty and get enrollment information.
Redeemer Lutheran School offers: Nursery, Free UPK, Kindergarten - 8th Before & After Care
UPK and Kindergarten Free choice of morning or afternoon care
Can’t make open house? Call 718.821.6670 to schedule your tour.
Faith-based approach and small classes where each student is special Art, music, technology, extracurriculars Family-oriented activities throughout the year Daily hot lunch prepared fresh by school chef Convenient to the Jackie Robinson Pkwy; bus options available
Experience Redeemer Lutheran School...Stop by an open house or call 718.821.6670 to schedule your tour.
6926 Cooper Ave in Glendale Central Park Conservancy
www.rlgschool.org
Established 1949
Get a taste of the Adirondack Mountains in the North Woods of Central Park in Manhattan.
N HOUSE
©Brooklyn Grange Rooftop Farm
OPE Small Classes Friday, June 9th 9am-2pm After School Program Transportation Available Separate Early Morning Drop Off Floor for Pre-K & Kindergarten Smartboard Technology Foreign Language, Music, Art Large Gymnasium and Outdoor Playing Fields Extracurricular Activities: Sports, Drama, Piano Affordable Tuition | Partial Scholarships Available Accredited By The New York State Department Of Education The Long Island City location of Brooklyn Grange hosts Family Farm Day, run by City Growers, the third Saturday of each growing-season month.
continued on next page ››
193-10 Peck Ave. • Fresh Meadows, N.Y. 11365 718-357-4747 • www.thenewhighlandschool.com
QueensParent 25
Katelin Walling
Jonathan Blanc/The New York Public Library
The original stuffed animals that inspired the stories of Winnie-the-Pooh are housed at the New York Public Library in Midtown, Manhattan
Courtesy Paul Klein
Courtesy Federal Reserve Bank of New York
Yonah Schimmel’s Knish Bakery is the oldest knishery in the U.S.
The City Island Land Ferry is free on the first Friday of the month, April-December.
Catch a ride to City Island in the Bronx. See real gold bricks at Federal Reserve Bank of New York (cropped)
Uniquely New York Check out one of Manhattan’s smallest museums.
Housed in a former freight elevator, Mmuseumm’s exhibitions aim to engage, educate, and inform the public in a unique cultural approach to looking at the current world. The tiny museum is located at 4 Cortlandt Alley in Chinatown, Manhattan, and the 2017 season opened May 11.
See a lot of gold.
Tour the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, located in Lower Manhattan, where you’ll learn about the role of the New York Fed and the Federal Reserve System through displays and interactive exhibits, as well as the U.S. economy and how money is made. Plus, you’ll descend into the Fed’s Gold Vault to see the gold bricks housed there. Unfortunately visitors can’t take pictures. Visit newyorkfed.org to reserve a free tour; children must be 16 and older.
Ride the subway through an abandoned stop.
There are two ways you can see the restored City Hall station on the 6 subway line in Manhattan: be a member of the New York Transit Museum and sign up for tour tickets quickly, or stay on the downtown 6 train as it turns around through City Hall station to head uptown. Look out the windows on the right side of the train as you’re facing the direction the train is moving (and make sure you double check with the subway attendant that it’s okay with them for you to stay on the train).
Adventure to City Island, which is reminiscent of a small fishing village, via the City Island Land Ferry. Ride the 6 train to the Pelham Bay Park station, and on the first Friday of the month (April-December) from 5:30-9:30pm, you can hitch a ride on the shuttle for free. While there, you can play at the Ambrosini Field playground, enjoy dinner, stop by Lickety Split Ice Cream for dessert, and watch the sun set before taking the land ferry back to Pelham Bay Park station.
See the stuffed animals that inspired Winnie-the-Pooh. The original stuffed animals of Pooh, Eeyore, Piglet, Kanga, and T-I-double Guh-Errr are housed in the New York Public Library’s Children’s Center at 42nd Street (Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, 476 Fifth Ave., Midtown, Manhattan). While you’re there with your little book lovers, check out a few books or participate in a story time.
Watch a giant chess match.
A larger-than-life chessboard is affixed to the north wall of 212 E. 48th St., Midtown East, Manhattan. Each Wednesday at 12pm, one piece is moved using a cherry picker, in a recreation of some of history’s greatest matches. You can learn more about the current match by visiting the concierge in the building’s lobby.
Enjoy a knish.
And not just any knish. Yonah Schimmel’s Knish Bakery, established in 1910 and located at 137 E. Houston St., Lower East Side, Manhattan, is the oldest knish bakery in the United States. And, man, are they delish!
Learn how pianos are made.
Participate in a Steinway & Sons Factory Tour and learn what goes into making a piano by going through the working factory in Astoria. Tours are free, and children younger than 16 are not allowed on the tours. Tours are offered Tuesdays, 9:30am-12pm, SeptemberJune. While tours are completely booked through December 2017, you can email tours@steinway.com to be placed on a waiting list for this year’s tours.
The DanceSource Have you ever tried a Dance Class?
Our smaller classes provide more attention in class, and more detail provide for each dancer. NEW: Russian speaking teacher on Thursdays! Наши новости: Уроки Танцев на русском языке по четвергам! The Dancesource offers Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Gymnastics, Zumba, Hip-Hop, Classical Barata Nathyam, Modern, Ballroom (Latin & Classics), Bollywood, Georgian Dance and Private Wedding Classes, Bat/Bar Mitzvah, Quincinera dances, Birthday Parties offered.
Administration available after school Monday-Thursday 4:30-7:30pm, Saturday 9:30am-2pm, and Sunday 9:30am-12:30pm. Rental space is available.
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If you think something is wrong with this picture, you should see what’s being served up in stores. Tobacco companies spend billions on colorful signs, special discounts and promotions in stores where kids can see them. And the more kids see tobacco, the more likely they are to start smoking. It’s time for tobacco marketing to hit the road.
Tobacco companies place most of their advertising in stores where
75
% OF
TEENS
shop at least once per week
Take action now at SeenEnoughTobacco.org facebook.com/TobaccoFreeNYS
@TobaccoFreeNYS
QueensParent 27
The Summertime Health Blues ›› How to avoid—or beat—childhood ailments that commonly strike during the summer months By Stacey Pfeffer
L
ike most parents, I am overjoyed when winter is over. This winter my house was a revolving door of germs with flu, strep, and pneumonia running rampant and causing my kids to miss way too many school days. When the warm weather approaches, I look forward to fewer trips to the pediatrician and hope my kids will have a fun-filled and illness-free summer. Yet there are some common childhood ailments that are actually more prevalent during the summer months. I spoke with area health experts to learn about the most common health problems for kids during the summer and what you can do to prevent them, or failing that, treat them effectively.
Coxsackie Virus
Dubbed the “summer flu,” Coxsackie virus is an enterovirus that lives in the gastrointestinal tract and can be spread through swimming pools. It is most common in young children and is highly contagious. Symptoms can include fever, sore throat, crankiness, and a rash that occurs on the hands, feet, and mouth. The virus is spread through nose and mouth secretions or from contact with the feces of an infected child, so thorough hand washing after diaper changes is key. All shared toys or objects should be cleaned since the virus can live on surfaces. Jay Berger, M.D., a Long Island pediatrician and the associate chairman of pediatrics of ProHEALTH Care, has seen his fair share of summertime Coxsackie cases. The virus often “masquerades as strep,” he says. “Unfortunately Coxsackie usually gets worse before it gets better,” Dr. Berger adds. “The patient might have higher temperatures or more blisters may appear before they start to feel better.” Sometimes young children with Coxsackie avoid solid food because it is too painful to eat, so it’s essential to ensure your child remains well hydrated with cold drinks. Avoid acidic or 28
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
tangy foods, which can aggravate mouth sores. Dr. Berger prefers Motrin for Coxsackie because it is anti-inflammatory, helping with pain and discomfort. He also suggests parents make a concoction of equal parts Maalox and Benadryl for their older children who can swish it around in their mouths and then spit it out. “This can really help heal the lesions in the mouth and alleviate discomfort,” Dr. Berger says. The rash and blisters can remain visible for several days, so parents often are confused about when the virus is no longer contagious. A good rule of thumb is when your child is fever free and has no visibly oozing blisters, she can return to camp or other summer activities.
Heat Exhaustion and Heat Rash
Searing temperatures during the dog days of summer can take a toll on young children who play outdoors for hours. Children are more prone than adults to heat exhaustion because a child’s body surface area makes up a much greater proportion of his overall weight than an adult’s. “Babies are also more likely to get heat exhaustion because they can’t self-regulate like older children. They are depending on adults to give them drinks or remove them from a sunny spot,” Dr. Berger says. Heat exhaustion occurs when children become dehydrated. Early signs can include lack of energy, fatigue, thirst, and dry lips and/or tongue. We’ve all heard that children should drink regularly before they get thirsty to avoid dehydration, but kids don’t really get thirsty until they’ve lost 2 percent of their body weight as sweat—so be sure to be giving them water regularly. If you suspect your child is suffering from heat exhaustion, get her into the shade or air conditioning. Make sure he is drinking water and eating salty pretzels or bananas to help replenish electrolytes.
Heat rash looks like tiny red dots or pimples on the skin. It tends to happen in hot, humid weather, and babies are most likely to get it. “Heat rash is actually a blockage of sweat glands,” Dr. Berger says. It can cause itching and discomfort in children. Most cases of heat rash go away after three or four days. Try to keep your child’s skin cool and dry and avoid overdressing her. Hydrocortisone cream can help alleviate the symptoms. If the heat rash is accompanied by a fever, contact your doctor.
Lice
Ask any lice removal specialist about his busiest week in business, and chances are he will say it is the week when kids return from sleepaway camp. In fact, many parents make a beeline to lice removal specialists for screening before their kids even step foot in their house. “I think that camps are a breeding ground for head lice and I think the reason is the close proximity of kids to each other, less supervision, sharing of towels, brushes, etc.,” says Anna Krosche, founder and owner of The Lice Lady of Westchester. “It really only takes one kid to have lice and then before you know it the whole bunk has it.” Children should be reminded not to share brushes, towels, or hair ties. Girls should keep their hair up and in a braid or tight bun to minimize exposure. Krosche suggests daily use of a lice-repellant spray with lemongrass, peppermint, lavender, or rosemary oils, which are lice-resistant. Krosche also recommends using an enzyme shampoo, which works well because the bugs themselves are made out of enzymes, so they can’t develop a resistance to it. “Some lice have actually become resistant to OTC [over-the-counter] shampoos such as Rid or Nix,” she says. When Krosche and her team treat a client, they will use a conditioner and combing solution, and she suggests combing the hair out in all four directions with a special nit-picking comb. “Nits are only on one side of an individual’s hair, so that’s why it’s important to comb it in all four directions.” Krosche and her team then blow dry the hair and do another lice check. “Parents should follow up with a comb-out each day for a week and then come back for a re-check after seven days. It is important to do daily comb-outs because if the lice lay eggs, it takes about three days for it to grow big enough to be removed with a comb-out,” she says.
Plantar Warts & Athlete’s Foot
Most kids love running barefoot in the summer, but this carefree attitude puts them at higher risk for plantar warts and athlete’s foot. “A wart is a virus, and a viral particle is tiny. The body is generally wellequipped to prevent warts, but the second there’s an opening through small cuts is when you can have trouble,” says Ari Rubinstein, M.D., a podiatrist at Lower Westchester Foot and Ankle. Dr. Rubinstein sees a large influx of kids with plantar warts during the summer. Warts are treated through several methods, including strong acid medicines, freezing (cyrotherapy), or laser treatments. Most cases can be treated with an excision and applying salicylic acid. “Several treatments might be needed though to fully eliminate the warts,” Dr. Rubinstein says. Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection that causes itching, redness, and burning between the toes. The infection thrives in moist, warm environments such as communal locker rooms and public showers. “Although there are several OTC products for it, a prescription product might be more effective and help speed up the healing process with a difficult case,” Dr. Rubinstein says. It’s also great to remind kids that flip-flops are their friends and can help prevent warts and athlete’s foot.
Sunburn
Parents need to be vigilant with sunscreen application and look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that offers both UVA and UVB protection, advises Julie Karen, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan and an assistant clinical professor at NYU Langone Medical Center. UVA and UVB refer to two kinds of harmful rays, ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B. “Both types of rays contribute to skin cancer, but a broad-spectrum sunscreen has to protect proportionately against both UVA and UVB rays,” she says. In fact, if a child has five or more sunburns in his lifetime, the risk for melanoma is doubled. With so many sunscreen options available, it can be difficult for parents to choose one. Dr. Karen prefers sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because, she says, “the benefits are manifold. They are not just physical blockers but they are also better tolerated for children with sensitive skin.” If your child is going to the pool or beach, opt for a water-resistant formula that is less susceptible to degradation from water exposure. Other helpful tips are to apply the sunscreen 20 minutes prior to sun exposure and then reapply every two hours, or sooner if your child is excessively perspiring or swimming. Keep the sunscreen in a temperate environment and check the expiration date on the bottle. “No one uses nearly enough sunscreen,” Dr. Karen says. “Always use more than you think you could possibly need and spend time rubbing it in.” She recommends complete sun avoidance for infants 6 months and younger. Children younger than 1 have particularly sensitive skin and should avoid the sun during peak hours (10am–4pm). Besides seeking shade and limiting sun exposure, children should also wear a broad-brimmed hat and clothing such as rash guards with ultraviolet protection factor. “Parents need to understand that sunscreens aren’t perfect,” Dr. Karen says. “They are not intended for you to wear and stay all day out in the sun. They are meant for the necessary exposure to the sun that comes with living a healthy, active lifestyle.” If your child still gets sunburned, a cool bath can help lower the skin’s temperature and then a gentle moisturizer should be applied to hydrate the skin. If your child has a high fever with the sunburn or your infant gets sunburned, call your pediatrician.
Swimmer’s Ear
Children are susceptible to swimmer’s ear because their small ear canals can easily trap moisture. “Moisture is a key ingredient for swimmer’s ear, so parents need to keep their children’s ears dry after swimming,” says Joey Bernstein, M.D., chief of the division of pediatric otolaryngology at New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai in Manhattan. Chlorinated pools are actually less of a risk factor for swimmer’s ear than swimming in lakes or rivers where bacteria counts are higher. Dabbing your ears with a towel is a good first step in keeping your child’s ears dry. Blow dryers on a low setting about a foot away from the ear can also help keep moisture out. “If simple things like this don’t work, some kids may need to wear ear plugs, but that’s rarely necessary,” Dr. Bernstein says. If you suspect your child has swimmer’s ear, it is important to treat it early, before the infection escalates and the pain becomes severe. Minor discomfort and itching are early signs of an infection. At-home treatments can help acidify the ear canal—meaning, make it a more acidic environment—which helps prevent bacteria from growing, while also helping dry the ear as much as possible. A 1-to-1 solution of white vinegar, an acidifier, and rubbing alcohol, a drying solution, can help. If this doesn’t work, pay a visit to your doctor, who can prescribe antibiotic eardrops. Stacey Pfeffer is a writer based in Chappaqua.
QueensParent 29
Courtesy Sahar Husain
VOICES of the Next Generation
The Magic of Eid ››
My family celebrates the Muslim holiday Eid al-Fitr, which takes place in June this year—here’s why it’s so special to me By Farah Husain
T
he sound of laughter echoed through the house as people bustled about, and the faint, delicate twinkling of glass bangles filled the apartment. This day was special, and the weather happened to be absolutely gorgeous. It was warm and the sun was beaming down onto New York City with a few wisps of pink-tinged clouds drifting lazily across the horizon. A couple of birds let out a few clear, sweet notes as if to announce that it was Eid. My parents, brother, grandfather, and some visiting cousins all sat around the table, cheerfully chatting as they ate the feast my mom had prepared. I noticed a few family members were missing, but they soon joined the merriment not too long after I did. I seated myself in between my younger brother and my cousin, Zoha. We all ate our fill. Once my mom was satisfied everyone was full, she started shooing us away to get ready. I put on a white kameez with gold embroidery and small, white, pearly beads over cotton straight pants with silvery-gold trimming. I had styled my long dark hair into loose, silky curls. Zoha sat next to me with her knees crossed wearing a dark green and light pink kameez over black leggings and natural makeup. The male members of my family were dressed in plain shalwar kameez in various shades of blue and black. My aunt and mom emerged from their rooms in outfits similar to Zoha’s and mine. Theirs finished with a necklace and high heels. Then everyone left for the Eid prayer except for the two older women, who stayed back to prepare the food for later. As our cab neared the mosque, I could see a throng of people surging through the big gates while calling out Eid greetings and hugging each other. On our way in, we stopped by the donation boxes and my dad paid fitr, which is money the mosque passes on to the poor. Fitr is mandatory because it helps us remember those who have less than us. The head of the family (in my case, my dad) has to give the appropriate amount for all family members, including our caregiver; Eid prayer is not accepted unless you pay fitr before praying.
Farah (in red clothes and glasses) is joined by her brother and cousins for a family photo on Eid.
After dropping the cash into the box, the women separated from the men as we all headed to our allocated sections. I could barely hold on to Zoha as we squeezed through the crowd to get to the prayer area. Women sporting their own cultural clothing in all sorts of colors were talking to each other while young children either clung to their mother’s clothes or happily played with one another. While we waited, we compared the intricate henna designs on our hands until the imam’s voice filled the room through giant speakers. He started off with the call to prayer, the adhan, and then started the actual prayer. Everyone stood up, shoulder to shoulder, all different skin colors, all different ages, but all equal in the eyes of God. Prayer ended with great scrambling as everyone tried to reach their shoes and get out of the way before they got swept up into the tide of people. When we returned home, we were met by the delicious smells of the food my aunt and mom had made in honor of Eid. After sampling some of these delicious dishes, we visited a few friends and stuffed ourselves with many more yummy treats. We exchanged gifts and greetings as we chatted about what we planned to do with the money we had received from elders throughout the day, and we snapped some pictures to preserve the memory of this Eid. We finally headed back home to unwind after a long day of visiting and fun. Zoha and I decided to finish a movie we had started watching the previous night and before long the rest of the cousins had joined us too. I sat on the bed sandwiched between Zoha and another one of my cousins, Areeb, with everyone else sprawled on the floor. Looking around, I smiled. To me, this is the magic of Eid: a time to share my joy and excitement with family and friends; a time to celebrate with others, no matter where they’re from or how old they are; a time to bring people together and spread happiness. Happy Eid!
Farah Husain, 12, attends the Trinity School in Manhattan. She enjoys horseback riding, tennis, and soccer, and plays the violin. She also volunteers with the organization Muslim Volunteers for NY.
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June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
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OUTINGS: Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey
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Where Education and Inspiration Take Flight 1
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© 2016 by the Aviation Hall of Fame of NJ
See real-life aircraft, learn about aerospace pioneers, and enjoy interactive exhibits in Teterboro, NJ. ›› By Caitlin Berens
1 Popular among younger visitors but appealing to all, guests can sit in an ejection seat from a B-52 bomber. 2 Visitors can board the cabin of an authentic Martin 202 airliner from the 1950s in the museum’s courtyard—it’s said to be the last one left in the world. 3 “Little Cut Up” is an airplane assembled from actual “cut-up” airplane parts. Children are encouraged to sit in the cockpit and make the control surfaces move on the wings and tail. 4 Learn more about the astronauts, aviators, and more who made an impact on New Jersey’s aerospace industry inside the Aviation Hall of Fame. 5 The Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey has 10 aircraft on display inside and outdoors.
H
ave you ever wanted to climb into the cockpit of an airplane? At the Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey you can do just that—and more. Founded in 1976, the Teterboro, NJ-based aviation museum offers a wealth of history, artifacts, artwork, and aircraft spanning “from early balloons to the space age,” says Shea Oakley, the executive director of the museum. The museum’s collections focus on the historic events and technological advances by New Jersey’s air and space pioneers over more than 200 years. The two-level museum has 10 aircraft on display (inside and outdoors), thousands of artifacts to view, more than 400 aircraft models, and interactive exhibits.
Think Like a Pilot
The museum offers a host of interactive exhibits, including a hot-air balloon basket that guests can carefully climb into and an ejection seat from a B-52 bomber that guests can sit in. A favorite among young visitors is “Little Cut Up,” an airplane assembled from actual “cut-up” aircraft parts. Kids are encouraged to sit in the cockpit of the aircraft and make the control surfaces move on the wings and 32
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
tail, just like a pilot would. The museum’s custom-built Fundamentals of Flight interactive aerodynamics exhibit provides hands-on opportunities for guests to experience the principles of flight.
exclusively for Scout troops—to the public in the future (for groups of 15 or more). It also hosts tours for school groups.
Get In the Cockpit
Though you can board two of the museum’s aircraft year-round (“Little Cut Up” and The Aviation Hall of Fame contains bronze an authentic Martin 202 airliner outside), plaques and information about the aerospace Open Cockpit Weekend is worth marking on the calendar. Held six weekends pioneers inducted from 1973 to present throughout the year, including June 17-18, who have made an impact on the New it allows guests to sit in the cockpit of most Jersey aerospace industry. Inductees include of the aircrafts on display at the museum. former NASA astronaut Buzz Aldrin as well as identical twins Scott Kelly and Mark Kelly, The annual Wings and Wheels Expo, Sept. 23-24 at Essex County Airport in Fairfield, both retired NASA astronauts and the only NJ, will have several aircraft, vintage military twins who have ever traveled to space (All vehicles, and show cars on display. three were born in The Garden State!).
Honoring Aerospace Pioneers
Inspiring the Next Generation
In addition to preserving the history of New Jersey aviation, the museum is also dedicated to educating and inspiring the next generation of aerospace pioneers. Through the Dare to Fly Program kids learn about aerodynamics by designing, building, and flying balsa wood gliders. The museum hopes to open its Night at the Museum program—currently offered
Want to Go?
Address: 400 Fred Wehran Road, Teterboro, NJ Directions: Approximately a 1-hour drive from Flushing Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm Admission: $8; $6 seniors and kids. Groups of 10 or more: $7; $5 seniors and kids. Open Cockpit Day: $10; $8 seniors and kids. For more information: 201-288-6344 or njahof.org
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Turn the page for details on LIC Bike Parade (No. 4 on our list).
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42 Smarty Pants, Movers & Shakers 44 Fun Fairs & Festivals, Great Outdoors, Special Needs 45 Show Time!, Once Upon a Time
EDITOR’S HOT TICKETS Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the nine events we consider can’t-miss—the ones we’re taking our own kids to. Consider it your cheat sheet to the best of what’s great this month!
1
Relay For Life of Bayside FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 3, 2-11pm WHERE: Bayside High School Athletic Fields, 204-09 29th Ave., Bayside AGES: All WHAT: Show your support for those that are fighting, and have fought, against cancer. There will be games, performances, fundraisers, and workshops about cancer prevention and treatment. WHY WE LOVE IT: It is an event that the entire community can come together in unity to fight back against cancer. WANT TO GO? relayforlife.org/baysideny.
Let’s Go Mets: Fireworks Night
WHEN: Saturday, June 3, 7:10pm WHERE: Citi Field, 126-01 Roosevelt Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: There will be plenty of fireworks on the field when the Amazin’s take on the Pirates. Plus, fans can enjoy a great fireworks show after the game. WHY WE LOVE IT: A wonderful night of family fun. WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 718-507-8499. mets.com.
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2
FIGMENT NYC
WHEN: June 3-4, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Governors Island, ferries leave from various locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan, see website for details, New York Harbor AGES: All WHAT: Get your hands dirty with art making such as painting and sculpture, as well as enjoying performance art and music. WHY WE LOVE IT: A trip to Governors Island is a summer must-do. WANT TO GO? $2-$2.75 ferries; some routes are free before 11:30am. 212-440-2200. govisland.com.
LIC Bike Parade FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 10, 11am-3pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: A visual spectacle of decorated bicycles 36
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
4
6 promoting solidarity in community activism, healthy living, and cycling safety for riders of all ages, including wild bike decorating workshops and parade float-making, bike repairs, and giveaways. The parade will leave the main gate of the park at 2pm, travel southbound along Vernon Boulevard, and culminate at Queensbridge Park. WHY WE LOVE IT: Families can transform their bicycle, tricycle, or scooter into a mobile work of art and flaunt it in the parade! WANT TO GO? 718-956-1819. socratessculpturepark.org.
5
The 12th Annual Jazz Age Lawn Party
WHEN: June 10-11, Saturday-Sunday, see website for times WHERE: Governors Island, Ferries leave from various locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan, see website for details, New York Harbor AGES: All WHAT: The Jazz Age Lawn Party, now entering its 12th year, is New York City’s original prohibition-era inspired gathering. Fans come together to discover music and zeitgeist of the 1920s and 1930s, learn the hottest dance steps of the time, frolic in their flapper dresses and glad rags, and enjoy sophisticated bites and vintage-inspired cocktails in a romantic, playful setting. WHY WE LOVE IT: The event features Kidland, a children’s area with carnival games and prizes for junior gents and Flapperettes. WANT TO GO? $55 and up; free for children younger than 12. 212-4402200. jazzagelawnparty.com.
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Kew Gardens Kids Art in the Park 2017 FREE
WHEN: Sunday, June 11, 11:30am-3:30pm WHERE: Kew Gardens Cinemas Park, Austin Street and Lefferts Boulevard, Kew Gardens AGES: 3-17 WHAT: The main attraction of this very popular event is a large-scale group mural, open to kids of all ages throughout the day to paint whatever they envision. Kids can also create individual masterpieces at the open arts and crafts workshop table, get their faces painted, and enjoy story time. WHY WE LOVE IT: A fun-filled day of painting, arts, and creativity for kids. WANT TO GO? 917-881-3358. facebook.com/kewgardensartevents.
Twist & Sprout FREE
WHEN: Sunday, June 11, 12-4pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 4350 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Sow the seeds of good health with cooking demonstrations, performance by Spencer the Gardener, bounce houses, potting up herbs to take home, fruit and veggie crafts, live music, and more. WHY WE LOVE IT: We’re all about healthy eating and outdoor exercise. WANT TO GO? 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.
7
Summer Solstice Celebration FREE
WHEN: Wednesday, June 21, 5pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park, 2-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy art-making workshops, oracle readings, face painting, dance, and more. Gather at the end of the evening for the traditional Solstice ritual cultivating inner light, reverence, and community. WHY WE LOVE IT: Celebrate the longest and most light-filled day of the year! WANT TO GO? 212-360-8172. cityparksfoundation.org.
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Taking it to the Streets: 1950s NY through the Lens of Flushing Photographer Frank Oscar Larson
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WHEN: June 25-Aug. 6, Saturday-Sunday, 12-5pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Before cellphones documented nearly every aspect of daily life, street photographers captured the humble, the mundane, and the ordinary. Opening reception on June 25 at 1pm. WHY WE LOVE IT: A time capsule of New York life before selfies and cellphones. WANT TO GO? $5. 718 463 7700. flushingtownhall.org. ››
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ON SCREEN Movie Under the Stars: ‘Secret Life of Pets’ FREE
WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the five no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome. First Friday FREE
WHEN: Friday, June 2, 10am-5pm WHERE: The Noguchi Museum, 9-01 33rd Road, Long Island City AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Enjoy extended hours and special programming. WANT TO GO? 718-204-7088. noguchi.org.
Nari Ward: G.O.A.T., again Opening Celebration FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 3, 3-7pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Take a tour of Nari Ward’s new artworks in G.O.A.T., sample local Jamaican food, and create your own G.O.A.T.-themed works of art. Then, make your way to the stage to choose the G.O.A.T.s of the evening at the Socrates Variety Hour, kicked off with a performance curated by Cumbe Center for African and Diaspora Dance. WANT TO GO? 718-956-1819. socratessculpturepark.org.
WHEN: Friday, June 16, 8pm WHERE: MacNeil Park, Poppenhusen Avenue between 115th Street and College Place, College Point AGES: All WHAT: Two mismatched mutts get lost in New York City after feuding and must find their way home. During their journey, they encounter a vicious bunny who plans to lead a group of abandoned pets on a revenge mission against humanity. WANT TO GO? 718-393-7370. nycgovparks.org.
Movie Under the Stars: ‘Sing’ FREE
WHEN: Friday, June 16, 8pm WHERE: Rochdale Park, Guy R. Brewer Boulevard between 130th and 137th avenues, Rochdale Village AGES: All WHAT: A koala impresario stages a singing competition in order to save his theater, and the contest attracts the attention of such musically inclined animals as a harried pig mom, a teenage gorilla, a shy elephant, and a punk porcupine. WANT TO GO? 718-393-7370. nycgovparks.org.
Lincoln Center Local Screening: ‘The American Revolution’ FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 24, 2:30pm WHERE: Bellerose Library, 250-08 Hillside Ave., Bellerose AGES: All WHAT: With loads of laughs and ingenious storytelling, this cheeky troupe from Chicago brings our country’s epic origin story to life using their bodies, voices, and pantomimed cannons. WANT TO GO? 718-831-8644. queenslibrary.org.
‘Journey to Space’ 3-D Movie
WHEN: Sunday, June 4, 6pm WHERE: Sunnyside Reformed Church, 4803 Skillman Ave., Sunnyside AGES: All WHAT: Join a group of volunteers and serve a meal to those in need. WANT TO GO? 718-426-5997. sunnysidenyc.rcachurches.org.
WHEN: Through June 30: Monday-Friday, 12pm and 3pm; Saturday-Sunday, 1pm and 4pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Moviegoers will learn about the important role of the International Space Station, uncover what NASA and the space community are working on, and discover the challenges they face to carry out bold missions such as capturing asteroids and landing astronauts on Mars. WANT TO GO? $6; $5 children with admission: $15; $12 children, students, and seniors. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.
Big Apple Barbecue Block Party FREE
Family Movie: ‘Storks’ FREE
Community Dinner FREE
WHEN: June 10-11, Saturday-Sunday, 11am-6pm WHERE: Madison Square Park, Madison Avenue and 23rd Street, Madison Square Park, Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: This event is a fun summer block party for all ages. The event benefits the Madison Square Park Conservancy. Come hungry! WANT TO GO? 212-661-6640. bigapplebbq.org.
Relay for Life of Middle Village FREE
WHEN: June 24-25, Saturday-Sunday, 3pm-7am WHERE: Juniper Valley Park Track and Field, Lutheran Avenue, between Juniper Boulevard and 71st Street, Middle Village AGES: All WHAT: Show your support for those that are fighting, and have fought, against cancer. There will be games, performances, fundraisers, and workshops about cancer prevention and treatment. WANT TO GO? 718-517-3206. relayforlife.org/middlevillageny. 38
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Friday, June 30, 3:30pm WHERE: Court Square Library, 25-01 Jackson Ave., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Junior, the company’s top delivery stork, lands in hot water when the Baby Factory produces an adorable but wholly unauthorized girl. Desperate to deliver this bundle of trouble, Junior and his friend Tulip, the only human on Stork Mountain, race against time to make their first baby drop before the boss finds out. WANT TO GO? 718-937-2790. queenslibrary.org.
Outdoor Movie Night FREE
WHEN: Through Aug. 20: Sundays, 8:30pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, Field 81, Randall’s Island AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Catch outdoor movies surrounded by great views from Randall’s Island every other Sunday. Watch Aladdin on June 11 and Zootopia on June 25. WANT TO GO? 212-860-1899. randallsisland.org.
HOLIDAY FUN Flag Day FREE
WHEN: Wednesday, June 14, 5pm WHERE: Broad Channel Park, Cross Bay Boulevard, East 16th to East 18th roads, Broad Channel AGES: All WHAT: In celebration of Flag Day, there will be children’s activities, a Playmobile, inflatables, arts and crafts, face painting, entertainment, music, refreshments, and giveaways. WANT TO GO? 718-318-4000. nycgovparks.org.
Father’s Day Craft FREE
WHEN: Wednesday, June 14, 4pm WHERE: Queens Village Library, 94-11 217th St., Queens Village AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids can show off their creativity and honor dad on his special day when they create Father’s Day crafts. WANT TO GO? 718-776-6800. queenslibrary.org.
Cool Pop Father’s Day Treat
WHEN: Sunday, June 18, 2-4pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, Long Island AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Paint a popsicle shape in bright fun colors to make “treat” stationery for your cool pop. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5828. licm.org.
Mets vs. Nationals
WHEN: Sunday, June 18, 1:10pm WHERE: Citi Field, 126-01 Roosevelt Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Dad on his special day when the Amazin’s they take on their NL rivals. The first 15,000 fans in attendance receive a Mets Father’s Day cap. WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 718507-8499. mets.com.
Family Day FREE
WHEN: Sunday, June 18, 1-4pm WHERE: Albert H. Mauro Playground, Flushing MeadowsCorona Park, Park Drive East and 73rd Avenue Terrace, Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Dad and enjoy an afternoon of games, crafts, an animal show, inflatables, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-393-7370. nycgovparks.org. ››
S u m m er 2 0 17 !
in Bayside
As Close to Sleep Away Camp as You Can Get! • Ages 3-16 • 8:30 am - 5:30 pm • Extended hours available • Hot lunch option • • AC transportation available • Low staff/child ratios • Flexible enrollment • • Sports, games & outdoor adventure • Visual arts, crafts & performing arts • • Special events & theme days • Color war & carnivals • Red Cross Swim Instruction •
Fathers’ Day Craft FREE
WHEN: Friday, June 16, 4pm WHERE: Broadway Library, 4020 Broadway, Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Make Dad a special gift and a classy card. WANT TO GO? 718-721-2462. queenslibrary.org.
Music in the Garden: Quintet of the Americas WHEN: Sunday, June 18, 2pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Dad and Grandpa, too, when this woodwind quintet, performs “Winds of Change,” a concert about the environment with ragtime, jazz, contemporary music, and poetry. WANT TO GO? $6; $4 seniors and students; $2 children ages 4-12; free for children 3 and younger. 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.
register online today!
646-519-5055 • www.oasischildren.com
@oasisdaycamps
Join us for an info session! At Queensborough Community College (222-05 56th Ave, Bayside, NY 11364) Library Building Rooms 6 & 25 June 3rd at 11:30am (tour to follow at 12:45 pm)
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CRAFTY KIDS
Saturday Sculpture Workshops: G.O.A.T. Monuments with Shellyne Rodriguez FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 3, 12-3pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Utilizing an array of materials, participants will be tasked with deciding on what they what their monuments want to convey and to create their own acronyms that reflect the underlying message of their creation. WANT TO GO? 718-956-1819. socratessculpturepark.org.
Boro-Linc: Queens Art Workshops FREE
ANIMAL LOVERS Beautiful Butterflies
WHEN: Saturday, June 3, 1:30pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 22806 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Learn about the amazing life cycle of butterflies with colorful photos, an engaging book, and live specimens. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $21. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.
A Reptile ‘Edventure’ with Erik Callender FREE
WHEN: Friday, June 23, 3pm WHERE: Sunnyside Library, 43-06 Greenpoint Ave., Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: This educational experience gives children a unique opportunity to see and learn about reptiles, amphibians, and even some large insects. WANT TO GO? 718-784-3033. queenslibrary.org.
Bug Bonanza
WHEN: Sunday, June 25, 2-4pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, Long Island AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Learn about bug anatomy and insects that help make up three-quarters of all animals on Earth. Create fun crafts, and enjoy a tasty insect treat. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free children younger than 1. 516-2245828. licm.org.
Faces From the Southern Ocean
WHEN: June 3-Sept. 3, Monday-Friday, 9:30am-5pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: View photographs by J.J. L’Heureux featuring some of the world’s most amazing creatures. WANT TO GO? $16; $13 seniors and children ages 2-17. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.
Sea Lion Feedings
WHEN: Through Dec. 31: daily, 11:25am, 2pm, and 4pm WHERE: Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Check out these animals year-round during their daily feedings. WANT TO GO? $8; $5 children. 718-271-1500. queenszoo.com. 40
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Through June 10: Saturdays, 12pm WHERE: Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, 161-4 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Build life-sized sculptures of animals, dinosaurs, and even parts of your own body, with papier-mâché, plaster, and tape. These community-engaged projects will be displayed at the JCAL Community Gallery at the end of the season. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 718-658-7400. jcal.org.
Saturday Sculpture Workshops: LIC Bike Parade FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 10, 11am-3pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Participants will transform their bicycle, tricycle, or scooter into a mobile work of art and then flaunt it in the annual LIC Bike Parade. WANT TO GO? 718-956-1819. socratessculpturepark.org.
Saturday Sculpture Workshops: Road to Freedom Paper Quilting with Queens Historical Society FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 17, 12-3pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: This workshop focuses on the Underground Railroad, including secret messages that were encoded through patchwork quilts to help guide slaves to freedom. Participants will create paper quilts using authentic symbols and messages. WANT TO GO? 718-956-1819. socratessculpturepark.org.
Saturday Sculpture Workshops: Who Am I? Zine-Making with Pam Reyes FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 24, 12-3pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids will create their own eight-page zine, a self-published book, in response to the question: Who am I? They can use biographical facts, or a picture book of memories, or even write the story of what kind of superhero they would like to be. WANT TO GO? 718-956-1819. socratessculpturepark.org.
Maker Space Friday FREE
WHEN: June 2-30, Fridays, 2:30-5pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: Familes can explore different materials, concepts, and ideas while making and tinkering together. Activities cover a wide range of topics including simple circuits, wind-powered racers, and hand sewing. WANT TO GO? 718-699-0005. nysci.org.
LITTLE FOODIES Young Chefs: Pasta Primavera
WHEN: Saturday, June 10, 10:30am WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 22806 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Young Chefs will prepare a vibrantly colored pasta dish for a fresh take on the classic pasta primavera. All materials included. WANT TO GO? $24. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.
Stop, Shop, and Eat FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 17, 11am-4pm WHERE: Sunnyside Reformed Church, 48-03 Skillman Ave., Sunnyside AGES: All WHAT: This outdoor event features a variety of treasures for purchase. Stop by to browse the tables, and enjoy homemade baked treats and grilled barbecue goodies. WANT TO GO? 718-426-5997. sunnysidenyc.rcachurches.org.
Kidz Kitchen: Caterpillar Crumbles & Butterfly Buns
DANCE PARTY Janis Brenner & Dancers: ‘Once You are Not a Stranger’ and ‘Soul River/Blues’ WHEN: June 1-3, Thursday-Saturday, 8-9pm WHERE: Gibney Dance Center at Agnes Varis Performing Arts Center, 280 Broadway, Lower Manhattan, Manhattan AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Janis Brenner & Dancers presents two works, created and inspired by two very different cultures. WANT TO GO? $25. 646-837-6809. gibneydance.org.
WHEN: Saturday, June 24, 1:30pm WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 22806 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Make cookie crumble caterpillars that crawl and butterfly cinnamon buns that will just fly out of here. WANT TO GO? $22. 718-229-4000. alleypond.com.
Kids in the Kitchen
WHEN: June 2-30, Fridays, 11:30am-12pm WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Little chefs use real cooking tools (with some help from adults) as we make easy, yummy, kid-friendly snacks from start to finish. WANT TO GO? $5 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5800. licm.org. ››
Indian Storytelling through Classical Dance: ‘Kathak’ FREE
WHEN: Thursday, June 22, 6:30pm WHERE: Ozone Park Library, 92-24 Rockaway Blvd., Ozone Park AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Celebrate the re-opening of the Ozone Park Library with Abha Bhatnager Roy and an evening of kathak. Kathak is a North Indian form of storytelling through classical dance. WANT TO GO? 718-845-3127. queenslibrary.org.
Welcoming Summer with Chinese Folk Dance FREE
WHEN: Sunday, June 25, 2pm WHERE: Flushing Library, 41-17 Main St., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: To welcome a beautiful summer season, the members of Ginger’s Dance Studio will perform a variety of Chinese folk dances. WANT TO GO? 718-661-1200. queenslibrary.org.
Dance, Dance Storytime FREE
WHEN: Friday, June 30, 11:15am WHERE: Rochdale Village Library, 169-09 137 Ave., Jamaica AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Giraffes can’t dance but can donkeys? These stories will have you dancing. WANT TO GO? 718-723-4440. queenslibrary.org.
QueensParent 41
can taste different bug-based products and learn about entomophagy, the practice of eating insects. WANT TO GO? $16; $13 children ages 2-17. 718-699-0005. nysci.org.
The Story I Tell: Creative Writing Workshop
WHEN: Through Aug. 29: Tuesdays, 7:15-8:45pm WHERE: Sunnyside Reformed Church, 48-03 Skillman Ave., Sunnyside AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Whether a beginner or a long-time writer, this workshop will help participants power up their prose and activate their creativity. Through in-class work, guided 1-on-1 support, essential principles, and group discussions, participants explore and write narrative through fiction, nonfiction, drama, and poetry. WANT TO GO? $25 per class; free for the first class. 718-426-5997. sunnysidenyc.rcachurches.org.
Drones: Is the Sky the Limit?
SMARTY PANTS Green Teens: How Does Your Garden Grow?
WHEN: Sunday, June 11, 11am WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, Long Island AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Come learn about soil, seeds, and sun. WANT TO GO? $13; $12 seniors; free for children younger than 1. 516-224-5828. licm.org.
Living Seeds with Rachel Mukon FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 17, 12pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park, 2-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: What does a seed need to germinate and thrive? Explore a variety of seeds, learn what they need to grow, and make a living seed necklace to observe germination. WANT TO GO? 212-360-8172. cityparksfoundation.org.
Drop-in Moving Image Studio
WHEN: June 3-24, Saturdays, 12pm WHERE: Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35th Ave., Astoria AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create media and other projects during a fun-filled afternoon of play and game design activities inspired by the museum’s collection of classic games. Activities include animating classic arcade characters, making your own mini arcade cabinet, and more. WANT TO GO? $15; $11 seniors; $7 children ages 3-17; free for children younger than 3. 718-429-2579. movingimage.org.
Bug Day
WHEN: Saturday, June 24, 12-4pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn about and handle a variety of bugs, and if you’re craving something more adventurous, eat some bugs at the Bug Café, where you
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June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
WHEN: Through Sept. 1: Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Pier 86, West 46th Street and 12th Avenue, New York Harbor, Manhattan AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This large-scale exhibition will reveal the history of drone technology, from its modern-day origins and its military development to its current applications in solving complex humanitarian challenges. WANT TO GO? $33; $31 seniors; $24 children ages 2-12; free for children 4 and younger. 877-957-7447. intrepidmuseum.org.
Picturing Female Robots and Androids
WHEN: Through Sept. 3: Monday-Friday, 9:30am-5pm; Saturday-Sunday 10am-6pm WHERE: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Corona AGES: All WHAT: View images of female robots, mannequins, and dolls in films, television, video games, and more. This exhibit, curated by Julie Wosk, is based on her recent book My Fair Ladies: Female Robots, Androids, and Other Artificial Eves. WANT TO GO? $16; $13 seniors and children ages 2-17. 718-6990005. nysci.org.
MOVERS & SHAKERS The Great Randall’s Island Treasure Hunt FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 10, 10am-2pm WHERE: Randall’s Island Park, Field 62-63, Randall’s Island AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Learn to use a map and compass and search for treasure. Have fun at this event for kids and adults. There will also be arts, crafts, and refreshments. WANT TO GO? 212-830-7722. randallsisland.org.
Mounted Cowboy Shooting Match
WHEN: Sunday, June 18, 11:30am-1:30pm WHERE: Old Bethpage Village Restoration Fairgrounds, 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage, Long Island AGES: All WHAT: The show is based on the historical reenactment of shooting events held at Wild West Shows during the 19th century. WANT TO GO? $10; $7 children ages 5-12; free for children younger than 5. 516-572-8400. islandlongriders.com.
Brooklyn Cyclones Opening Night
WHEN: Tuesday, June 20, 7pm WHERE: MCU Park, 1904 Surf Ave., Coney Island, Brooklyn AGES: All WHAT: Watch the Brooklyn Cyclones—in the team’s first home game of the season—take on the Staten Island Yankees. Fireworks follow the game. WANT TO GO? $10-$17. 718372-5596. brooklyncyclones.com.
Let’s Go Mets: Free T-Shirt Friday
WHEN: June 2-30, Fridays, 7:10pm WHERE: Citi Field, 126-01 Roosevelt Ave., Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy America’s pastime and cheer on the Amazin’s has they take on their NL rivals: Pirates on June 2, Nationals on June 16, and Phillies on June 30.
All fans in attendance will receive a Mets T-shirt. WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 718507-8499. mets.com.
Zip, Jump & Climb at Atlas Park FREE
WHEN: Through July 9: Thursdays, 4-10pm; Fridays, 4-10:30pm; Saturdays, 1210:30pm; Sundays, 12-7pm WHERE: The Shops at Atlas
Park, 8000 Cooper Ave., Glendale AGES: All WHAT: Featuring NYC’s only Zipline Attraction with three different challenges, Zip Lining, Rock Climbing, and Extreme Air Jump! No need for wings, a cape, or superhuman powers to fly across the mall! WANT TO GO? 718-326-3300. shopatlaspark.com. ››
Music and Movement
WHEN: Wednesday, June 21, 11:30am WHERE: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, Long Island AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Enjoy creative movement exercises and interactive sing-alongs that get little bodies moving to the rhythm. WANT TO GO? $3 with museum admission: $13; $12 seniors 65 and older; free for children younger than 1. 516224-5800. licm.org.
Tween Yoga
WHEN: June 3-24, Saturdays, 10:30am WHERE: Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Certified yoga instructor Grace Magee will lead participants out of their busy schedules into a place of serenity and strength. Bring a towel and water. WANT TO GO? $16. 718-2294000. alleypond.com.
Yoga in the Gardens
WHEN: June 1-29, Thursdays and Saturdays, 11:15am WHERE: Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury, Long Island AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Professional Kripalu Yoga instructor, Lorili Henry, will lead students through a dynamic, yet gentle, continuous flow of postures and conscious breathing. WANT TO GO? $18. 516-3330048. oldwestburygardens.org.
Queens College
SUMMER
CAMP
17 JULY 3– AUGUST 24, 20
Featuring
• NEW QC Sports Club for Children Ages 9–14
• 5 Great Educational & Recreational Programs for Children Ages 5–16
• STEM Academy in our Education & Sports Program • Theatre Arts
• Dance Academy • Counselor-in-Training for Ages 15–16
OPEN HOUSE TOURS
Saturday, June 3rd at 10am FitzGerald Gymnasium QC.SummerCamp@qc.cuny.edu www.QCCAMP.com 718-997-2777
Friend us at Facebook.com/QCcamp
Athletics_SummerCampAd_4_10_17.indd 1
43 QueensParent 4/6/17 12:40 PM
FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS
Queens International Music Festival
WHEN: Saturday, June 3, 12-5pm WHERE: Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: An exciting international music festival right in the heart of downtown Jamaica. See website for the list of performers. WANT TO GO? Call for cost. 718-658-7400. jcal.org.
10th Annual World Science Festival 2017
WHEN: May 30-June 4, see website for times WHERE: Various locations, see website for addresses, New York City AGES: All WHAT: Six days of groundbreaking discoveries and encounters with the scientists and thinkers who are changing the world. This year, the event will celebrate the achievements of Women in Science, and explore the impact of the award-winning teachers on the future of scientific discovery. WANT TO GO? $15 and up. 212-348-1400. worldsciencefestival.com.
The MOMpreneurs’ Summer Show & Tell FREE
WHEN: Sunday, June 11, 9:30am-1pm WHERE: Astoria Park, Great Lawn, Astoria AGES: All WHAT: Families will have the chance to spend the day at the park while getting to know about local, female-run businesses. There will be demonstrations for kids and parents, including a cooking class, book readings, giveaways, interactive art, open play spaces, and an obstacle course. WANT TO GO? 917-348-4972. cookwithyoursenses.com/communityevent.
Only in Queens Summer Festival hosted by Roxanne Shante FREE WHEN: Sunday, June 11, 5-8pm WHERE: Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Grand Central Parkway and Whitestone Expressway between 111th Street and College Point Boulevard and Park Drive East, Flushing AGES: All WHAT: Borough President Melinda Katz and NYC Parks presents this event featuring George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic. Don’t miss this P-Funk architect and funk innovator with a host of Queens’ own hip-hop pioneers. WANT TO GO? 212-360-8172. cityparksfoundation.org.
Fresh Meadows Family Day FREE
WHEN: Sunday, June 11, 1-4pm WHERE: Utopia Playground, between 73rd and Jewel avenues, Fresh Meadows AGES: All WHAT: A fun afternoon of games, crafts, an animal show, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-393-7370. nycgovparks.org.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS Community Volunteer Day FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 3, 10am-1pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 4350 Main St., Flushing AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Roll up your sleeves and keep the garden clean and green. Led by QBG staff, volunteers will participate in a variety of gardening activities. Registration required. WANT TO GO? 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.
Pollination Headquarters
WHEN: Saturday, June 24, 11am-4pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: See butterfly and insect displays, go on self-guided tours, take home pollinator-friendly plants, and adopt a bee condo. WANT TO GO? $8; $2 children; free for children younger than 6. 718549-3200. wavehill.org.
Kayaking from Socrates Sculpture Park Beach at Hallets Cove FREE
WHEN: June 11-25, Sundays, 1-5pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park - LIC Boathouse, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: A comfortable introduction for families to kayaking during a short trip to the shallow waters of Hallets Cove. No prior boating experience is required. Children must have a parent or guardian present, and life preservers are available for the family pets to join in the fun. WANT TO GO? 718-228-9214. licboathouse.org.
Queens International Children’s Festival FREE
WHEN: June 17-18, Saturday-Sunday, 12-5pm WHERE: Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: All WHAT: Two days of family fun, including arts and crafts, music, and dance, plus a video game tournament for tweens and teens on Sunday, June 18. WANT TO GO? 718-658-7400. jcal.org.
Summer Festival FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 24, 1-4pm WHERE: King Manor Museum, 150-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Head outside for a day of arts and crafts, historic games, and more. WANT TO GO? 718-206-0545. kingmanor.org. 44
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
SPECIAL NEEDS Sensory Sensitive Sundays
WHEN: Through Dec. 3: Sundays, 9-11am WHERE: Chuck E. Cheese’s, 40-24 College Point Blvd., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Children with autism and other special needs can enjoy food, games, and more with reduced lighting and noise led by a trained and caring staff the first Sunday of every month. WANT TO GO? Prices vary. 718-321-0400. chuckecheese.com.
SHOW TIME! ‘Princess Particular’
WHEN: Saturday, June 10, 2:30pm WHERE: The Little Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St., Long Island City AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Can you imagine what it’s like to be a princess, but want to be something else? See this little royal fusspot in a delightful musical. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 children. 718-392-0722. secrettheatre.com.
‘Charlotte’s Web’ FREE
WHEN: Monday, June 12, 1pm WHERE: Forest Park, Sobelsohn Playground, Park Lane South and Abingdon Road, Kew Gardens AGES: All WHAT: A performance of this classic presented by Plaza Theatrical Productions. WANT TO GO? 718-235-4100. nyc.gov/parks.
‘Pirate Pete’s Parrot’
WHEN: Saturday, June 17, 2:30pm WHERE: The Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St., Long Island City AGES: 3-8 WHAT: The play revolves around Pirate Pete, a lovable rogue on a mission to find his beloved runaway parrot. WANT TO GO? $15; $10 children; $40 for family four-pack. 718-3920722. secrettheatre.com.
A Saturday Afternoon with ‘The Golden Voice of Mali’ West Africa Awa Sangho & Friends FREE WHEN: Saturday, June 17, 2:30pm WHERE: Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Multi-talented Malian singer and songwriter Awa Sangho is a charismatic new solo star on the world music scene. WANT TO GO? 718-990-0700. queenslibrary.org.
Pan Asian Repertory Theatre: ‘Lost in Shanghai’
WHEN: Sunday, June 18, 4pm WHERE: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: An adventure love story set in 1940s Shanghai. WANT TO GO? $10. 718-463-7700. flushingtownhall.org.
CityParks PuppetMobile Presents ‘Cinderella Samba’ FREE
WHEN: June 4-25, see website for times WHERE: Various parks throughout Queens, see website for addresses AGES: All WHAT: A contemporary twist on the classic Cinderella, set in Brazil. WANT TO GO? cityparksfoundation.org/event.
ONCE UPON A TIME Storytime in the Park FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 17, 12-2pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park, 2-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Begin with traditional storytime, reading children’s books that explore the joy of art and creativity, with some even written by local Queens authors. Then, everyone gets a chance to be an author or an illustrator by participating in interactive storytime. WANT TO GO? 212-360-8172. cityparksfoundation.org.
Toddler Time FREE
WHEN: Through June 20: Tuesdays, 10:30am WHERE: Long Island City Library, 37-44 21st St., Long Island City AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Children and their caregivers enjoy interactive storytelling, songs, rhymes, and a letter of the week craft. WANT TO GO? 718-752-3700. queenslibrary.org.
Storytime & Craft FREE
WHEN: June 4-24, Saturday and Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St., Flushing AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Bring your little nature lovers for a relaxing afternoon featuring seasonal nature-inspired stories, followed by a botanically themed craft. WANT TO GO? 718-886-3800. queensbotanical.org.
LIC & Astoria Love Letter with Five Boro Story Project FREE
WHEN: Saturday, June 24, 1-4pm WHERE: Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City AGES: All WHAT: Participants will share their own stories, write a love note to their neighborhood, and leave their mark on the Park with participatory artmaking activities reflecting the local landscape. WANT TO GO? 718-956-1819. socratessculpturepark.org.
Science in the Park: Woodlands FREE
WHEN: Through June 25: Sundays, 1pm WHERE: Alley Pond Park, 76th Avenue and Springfield Boulevard, Douglaston AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Fun, hands-on science programming, topics include pond exploration, engineering, insects, and flight. WANT TO GO? 718-352-4793. nycgovparks.org.
Weekly Storytime FREE
WHEN: June 1-29, Thursdays, 11am WHERE: Astoria Bookshop, 31-29 31st St., Astoria AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: A wonderful morning of stories and fun. WANT TO GO? 718-278-2665. astoriabookshop.org.
Coming up next month: JULY 8-9: INSITU Site-Specific Dance Festival at Long Island City waterfront parks, Long Island City JULY 15: City of Water Day at Socrates Sculpture Park, Long Island City JULY 28-30: Thunderbird American Indian Mid-Summer Powwow at Queens County Farm, Floral Park QueensParent 45
WHERE-TO GUIDE
Beaches
nymetroparents.com/where-to
››
Research by Karen Lo
Courtesy New York City Department of Parks & Recreation
It’s time to feel the sand between your toes! Pack up an umbrella, some chairs, a picnic, and a good book, and hit the beach with the kids. We’ve got all of your local sandy spots to enjoy a sunny day this summer, so why hesitate? There’s an entire ocean out there waiting for you to splash around. Want some time to relax? Have the kids compete in a sandcastle contest so you can focus on “me time” until you have to pick a winner. Note: Dates and prices are projected; call ahead or check your local beach’s website to confirm all details. Cyclone rollercoaster: $10 (must be at least 54 inches tall to ride). New York Aquarium: $11.95; free for children ages 2 and younger. A 2.7-mile boardwalk, New York Aquarium, Luna Park (including the Cyclone rollercoaster), eateries, and outdoor spray showers Manhattan Beach 718-646-5913; 212-639-9675 nycgovparks.org/parks/manhattanbeachpark Hours: daily, sunrise to sunset; lifeguards on duty May 27-Sept. 4, 10am-6pm. Cost: Beach: FREE. Parking: $6 weekdays, $20 weekends and holidays. Boardwalk, two playgrounds, large baseball diamond, tennis, basketball, and handball courts
Staten Island
Coney Island boasts a 2.7-mile boardwalk and is home to the New York Aquarium and Luna Park.
Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk Far Rockaway to Neponsit (Beach 9th Street to Beach 149th Street; see website for entrance changes) 718-318-4000 nycgovparks.org/parks/rockawaybeach Hours: Sunrise to sunset; lifeguards on duty 10am-9pm. Swimming allowed Memorial Day Weekend through Sept. 4. Cost: FREE Basketball and handball courts, beach tennis, skate park, surfing, sitting areas, and playgrounds along the boardwalk and adjoining areas 46
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Brooklyn Brighton Beach, Coney Island, and Coney Island Boardwalk 718-946-1350; 212-639-9675 coneyislandfunguide.com nycgovparks.org; nyaquarium.com Hours: Beach and boardwalk, daily, 5am1am; lifeguards on duty May 27-Sept. 4, 10am-6pm. New York Aquarium: daily, 10am-4:30pm. Cost: Boardwalk: FREE. Luna Park: $1 per ride credit, $35 for 4-hour unlimited wristband (does not include specialty rides);
Midland Beach and Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk 718-987-0709; nycgovparks.org/parks/ fdr-boardwalk-and-beach Hours: daily, 10am-8:30pm; boardwalk closes at dusk. Swimming allowed May 29Sept. 4, 10am-6pm. Cost: FREE Sprinklers and playground, handball and shuffleboard courts, seasonal concession stands, bathrooms, and picnic areas. Site of the annual Back to the Beach Celebration (July 22-23) with food, games, sandcastlebuilding, boardwalk vendors, live music, and fireworks. South Beach nycgovparks.org Hours: daily, 10am-6pm Cost: FREE Children’s playground, handball and shuffleboard courts, bocce courts, ball fields, and fishing pier. Find the full guide at ›› nymetroparents.com/beaches
WHERE-TO GUIDE
nymetroparents.com/where-to
Amusement Parks
››
Research by Sabrina Sooknanan
Courtesy Fantasy Forest
Zoom down twisty roller coasters, splash around on a water slide, and don’t forget to collect a big prize at the arcade. This summer, take your family to a local amusement park, or get out of town for a weekend of big play. Every place on our list has kid-friendly rides and attractions, and something for the grown-ups, too. Call ahead or visit the website before your day out at the amusement park, as hours, ticket prices, and attractions are subject to change.
Take a ride on the Corona Cobra Coaster at Fantasy Forest.
Adventurer’s Park 1824 Shore Parkway, Bensonhurst, Brooklyn 718-975-2748 adventurerspark.com Hours: May 26-Sept. 4, check the website for hours. Price: Single ticket: $3.75; 10 tickets: $31; 30 tickets: $80; GoKarts: $8 ($12 with a passenger). Calling all adventurers! With family rides, water boats, and mini golf, this amusement park opens daily for the summer May 29. Fantasy Forest at the Flushing Meadows Carousel 111th Street and 55th Avenue, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens
718-788-2676 fantasyforestnyc.com Hours: Through Oct. 11: daily, hours vary; check the website. Price: Single ticket: $3.50; 3 tickets: $10; 10 tickets: $30; 20 tickets: $55; 40 tickets: $100. Weekly unlimited ride wristband: $25 (valid until 4pm). One roller coaster, family rides and games, and a carousel are right in the heart of Queens. Don’t miss tons of great family-friendly performances throughout the summer as well, every weekend. The carousel was brought to Coney Island in 1964 for the World’s Fair and is the only ride left from the World’s Fair
in Queens. Don’t miss the chance to ride this historical gem. Check website for a complete schedule. Victorian Gardens Wollman Rink, Central Park, Manhattan 212-982-2229 victoriangardensnyc.com Hours: May 27-Sept. 10: Monday-Thursday, 11am-7pm; Friday, 11am-8pm; Saturday, 10am-9pm; Sunday, 10am8pm. Occasionally closes early for events, check the website before visiting. Price: $8.50 weekdays; $9.50
weekends and holidays; free for children shorter than 36 inches (with a paying adult). $24.50 for unlimited-ride wristbands on weekdays; $27.50 on weekends; $4 for games. Enjoy rides and games for the whole family, plus live entertainment every weekend. Soar in circles on the Kite Flyer or play the tried-and-true WhackA-Mole game. New attraction: Grand Prix (a fast paced jet-ski race) and teacup ride. Luna Park at Coney Island 1000 Surf Ave., Coney Island, Brooklyn 718-373-5862 lunaparknyc.com Hours: May 23-Sept. 5: daily; hours vary. Sept. 10-Oct. 30: weekends. Check online for full details. Pricing: $1 per credit; 48 credits: $40; 75 credits: $60; and 140 credits: $100; $35 for unlimited Luna Park Ride Wristband, which includes 4 hours of unlimited rides on more than 22 rides in Luna Park. Platinum wristband includes 4 hours of unlimited rides, plus 5 extreme rides. Check online for additional deals. Mild to extreme thrill rides, games, and dining. New attraction this year: WindstarZ VR, which launched this season, has been enhanced with a virtual reality experience to make riders feel like you are actually hang gliding in a worldly environment. The ride holds 24 seats and is located next to Coney Joe.
Find the full guide at ›› nymetroparents.com/amusementparks
Courtesy Chef John Stage
FOOD & NUTRITION
Grilling with Chef
John Stage
››
Tips for cooking on the barbecue from a grill master—just in time for a Father’s Day feast By Katelin Walling; recipes by Chef John Stage
Chef John Stage, owner of Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Brooklyn and Manhattan, and, most recently, Flip Bird and Apizza Regionale, located in Gotham Market at The Ashland in Downtown Brooklyn
W
arm weather brings grilling season, and what better time to grill a feast than Father’s Day? But before you crank up the heat and throw some meat on the fire, you’ll want to check out these do’s and don’ts from Chef John Stage, the man behind Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, with nine locations, including Brooklyn and Manhattan, and two new restaurants located in Gotham Market at The Ashland in Brooklyn: Apizza Regionale, serving pizza made from locally sourced ingredients, and Flip Bird, serving rotisserie and fried free-range, antibiotic- and growth hormone-free chicken. So grab your tongs and wire brush, fire up the grill, and cook a feast fit for the king of your castle—maybe one of Stage’s recipes (right)?
Grilling Do’s
Clean your grill before and after cooking. Food releases more easily from a clean grill, so “while the grill is still warm, at the end of your grilling, take a wire brush to it and hit it pretty good. You don’t want all the build up from the grilling,” Stage says. “And do it again before you start [next time].”
Try fruits and veggies on the grill. Stage says any fruit or vegetable that won’t fall through the grate on the grill will work, but this time of year he especially enjoys grilled asparagus, and corn on the cob a little later in the season.
Grilling Don’ts
Manhandle the meat. Try to avoid poking the meat and flipping it too early. “If it doesn’t want to be flipped, it lets you know. If it’s sticking to the grill just leave it alone, don’t flip it. It will release on its own when it’s ready to flip,” Stage says. Buy just any meat. “I like to look for marbling,” Stage says. “I’m looking for a decent fat content.” You want to see the white flecks of fat throughout the meat, he says, which will self-baste the meat while cooking, and fat is the flavor of the meat. Lose your patience. This goes hand in hand with not manhandling the meat. Cooking on the grill takes patience, Stage says, and that’s when people flip the meat too early. “That’s the wrong approach,” he says.
Master the fire. Every grill has hot and low spots, Stage says, and you’ll want to know where they are. “There are some meats that you want to grill low and some you want to grill high. With any type of barbecue you want to go low, and you tend to go high on any type of grilled meat Use expensive cuts, especially if it’s your first time cooking on a grill. “Keep it simple,” Stage says. “Do a burger. That way if you like steaks or burgers or chops,” Stage says. “Then you want be able to screw it up, you’re not out a lot of money. That will give you a get that food from high to low to get it in a resting spot.” good understanding of how the fire and grill works.” Season your meat before grilling. Especially with a burger or Keeping all these do’s and don’ts in mind, as with anything, the steak, give it a good salt and then get a sear on it. “You want to get that crust. It’s a matter of putting the meat on the grill, getting more you practice, the better you’ll get at it. “Whether it’s a gas or that good crust, and leaving it on one side before flipping it so you charcoal grill, once you understand the nuance of it and understand the fire, get a good piece of meat, and have a little patience,” Stage do get that good sear. Then once you get that good sear, the meat says. “That’s how you get good at it.” will release from the grill,” Stage says. 48
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Serves 4 Ingredients For the steak: • 4 8oz. skirt steaks, trimmed • ¼ cup red rub (recipe below) • ¼ cup olive oil For the Salsa: • 1½ lbs. plum tomatoes • 2 Tbsp. olive oil • ¼ cup diced red onion • ½ tsp. minced garlic • 2 tsp. minced jalapeno • ½ cup avocado, diced • 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro • 2 tsp. lime juice • 1 tsp. kosher salt • 1 tsp. sugar • ¼ tsp. Tabasco sauce • 2 tsp. barbecue sauce For the Rub: • ¼ cup smoked paprika • ¼ cup Kosher salt • ¼ cup sugar in the raw • 2 Tbsp. dark chili powder • 1 Tbsp. granulated garlic • 1 Tbsp. granulated onion • 1½ Tbsp. black pepper • 1 tsp. cumin • 1 tsp. celery salt • ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper
Directions 1. Make the salsa: Fire up the
grill to medium heat. Core and split tomatoes in half lengthwise, place them in a bowl, and toss them with the oil. Grill them on both sides until charred, transfer them to a cutting board, and chop to a chunky texture. Add them back to the bowl and gently stir in the rest of the ingredients until combined. 2. Make the steaks: Mix rub ingredients together. Combine ¼ cup of rub and the olive oil in a bowl to form a paste and rub it on both sides of the steak. Preheat grill to high. Remove the steaks from the marinade and pat them dry. Grill steaks to desired temperature, let rest, and slice across the grain. 3. Serve with the Charred Tomato and Avocado Salsa.
Flip Bird’s Spatchcock: Chicken with Harissa spices
Courtesy Chef John Stage
Courtesy Chef John Stage
Red Rub Skirt Steak with Charred Tomato and Avocado Salsa
Cooked on a gas grill Chicken
Ingredients • 1 Whole Chicken, approximately 3½ lb. • 3-4 Tbsp. Harissa spices (recipe below) • 2 Tbsp. Olive oil Directions 1. To Spatchcock Chicken: Using poultry shears or a sharp knife, cut down on each side of backbone/spine and remove completely. Turn chicken over and press down, flattening chicken as much as possible. 2. Coat chicken with olive oil and spices, completely cover, and let sit in refrigerator for a couple of hours. 3. For gas grill, turn on two burners to medium high and leave off one burner. This will create indirect heat. You want the internal temperature of grill to be approximitely 350-375º. Adjust burners as necessary. 4. Place chicken skin side up on the side of grill with the burner off. Close lid and cook for 50 minutes, until the thickest part of thigh reads 165º.
5. Lower heat on burners to medium-low and flip chicken skin side down onto direct heat for 5-8 minutes to crispen and tender skin. Don’t let it burn. Remove from grill, let rest, light season, and serve. Harissa spices
Ingredients • ¼ cup smoked paprika • 2 Tbsp. fine sea salt • 2 Tbsp. Sugar • 1½ Tbsp. turmeric • 1½ Tbsp. cumin seed • 1½ Tbsp. fennel seed • 1½ Tbsp. granulated garlic • 1½ Tbsp. sumac • 1½ Tbsp. cinnamon • 1½ Tbsp. ground ginger • 1½ Tbsp. black pepper • 1½ Tbsp. Szechuan peppercorns Directions 1. Toast and grind cumin and fennel seed. 2. Blend all spices evenly.
Chef John Stage is the owner of Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, which has nine locations including Harlem and Brooklyn, and two newly opened restaurants in Gotham Market at The Ashland in Downtown Brooklyn: Flip Bird, a rotisserie and friend chicken establishment, and Apizza Regionale, which uses only locally sourced ingredients.
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Introducing tweens to new to hobbies such as hiking as a healthy way to cope with stress is one way to help prevent them from turning to drugs.
It’s Never Too Early to Prevent Drug Abuse ›› With changing laws and attitudes about recreational marijuana, it’s more important than ever for parents to talk to their kids about drug use. By Dana Klosner-Wehner
P
opular opinion on the legalization of recreational marijuana has changed dramatically in the last decade. Today, 57 percent of U.S. adults say the use of marijuana should be made legal, while 37 percent say it should be illegal. A decade ago, opinion on legalizing marijuana was nearly the reverse: 32 percent favored legalization, while 60 percent were opposed, according to a 2016 Pew Research Poll. While marijuana is still illegal federally, recreational and medical use is permitted in eight states, and medical use is allowed in more than half the country, including New York and New Jersey. “With legalization [for recreational use] comes increased availability and a decrease in the perception of harm among children and adolescents,” says Amy Goldstein, communications director of the National Family Partnership. But studies from the World Health Organization and The National Academy of Sciences show just the opposite: Marijuana can be addictive and harmful. Chances of becoming dependent on marijuana can be up to 50 percent for some users, according to Smart Approaches to Marijuana, an alliance dedicated to a health-first approach to marijuana policy, and regular use is dangerous to the adolescent brain—in some cases linked to permanent reductions in IQ, respiratory problems, injury, psychosis, and suicide. “When people begin using marijuana as teenagers, the drug may reduce thinking, memory, and learning functions and affect how the brain builds connections between the areas necessary for these functions. Marijuana’s effect on these abilities may last a long time or even be permanent,” Goldstein says. But with these new state laws, kids are being inundated with messages 50
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
that the drug is harmless—and it’s more important today than ever that parents understand the risks of marijuana when used recreationally. “There are new television commercials coming after kids and young adults,” says Sue Rusche, president and CEO of National Families in Action. She refers to the T-Mobile Super Bowl commercial featuring Martha Stewart and Snoop Dog having a potluck supper with thinly veiled references to pot. “There were purple cushions, marijuana vines, and other pot references,” she says. “That kind of stuff comes after kids. It’s the new tobacco industry, only worse.” Medical marijuana—which has been approved for treating symptoms of a number of diseases including cancer, HIV infection or AIDS, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy—is a different story: Though it remains controversial and the American Academy of Pediatrics disapproves of its use in children, it is a topic that parents should discuss with their doctor if their child suffers from one of these diseases. In states where marijuana is fully legal, there are billboards advertising where to get it. Nationally, there are websites such as weedmaps. com that tell you where you can buy pot and even have it delivered. Paraphernalia is not the only way to indulge anymore. Legalization has spurred a boom in pot “edibles.” THC concentrate is mixed into almost any type of food or drink, including candies, soda, and baked goods. Today, these edibles comprise at least half of Colorado’s marijuana market, according to a report by SAM. There are even edible recipes on the Internet. “These foods are being left around,” Rusche says. “Babies and toddlers are eating them. They are rushed to the ICU.” “Marijuana is more potent today than it was in the 1960s and ’70s
even through the ’90s,” Rusche continues. “In those days the THC levels were 1, 2, 3, 4 percent. As marijuana growers begin cross breeding the average level of THC is now 12-15 percent.” But all is not lost. “Parents have the power to help our children grow up to be healthy and drug free,” Goldstein says. And it is never too early to start.
Ages 3-6
Model a healthy relationship to drugs and alcohol. “In very young children parents want to model behaviors,” says Susan Newman, Ph.D., a social psychologist who specializes in parenting issues. “Always use drugs and alcohol moderately. You think kids aren’t watching but they are.” Take advantage of teachable moments. “There are teachable moments,” says Peggy Sapp, executive director of the National Family Partnership. “You can use gummy vitamins. You can say, ‘These taste like candy but they’re not, they’re medicine and you can only have one a day.’” Eat dinner as a family. Even at this young age getting together for meals has a positive impact on kids, Newman says. You can model listening and sharing events of your day. “There are several studies that show the more dinners you have with children, the less likely they are to try dangerous substances,” she says. “They feel supported, they get heard, and it’s a great opportunity to talk about all this.”
Elementary School
Express clear disapproval for drug use. “Marijuana use was much less prevalent among youths who perceived strong parental disapproval for trying marijuana once or twice than for those who did not,” according to the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. What Happens When You See Commercials and Billboards? “Help [kids] become media literate by asking questions about what they think the commercial or message are trying to tell them and why. It’s a good opportunity to ask questions about what they think they know about marijuana, what they’ve heard from their friends, who they perceive to be using it—and responding to those questions with facts, calmly and clearly,” Goldstein says. Tell your kids that even in states where marijuana is legal, it is only legal for adults of a certain age, and regulated by law the way alcohol is, until age 21. It is still considered illegal and harmful for teens and the developing teen brain, which is not fully matured until age 25, according to Josie Feliz, director of communications for the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. Talk about family values. “Discuss incidents with friends in general about anti-social behavior,” Newman says. “If some child in the neighborhood throws rocks at someone’s dog, you need to discuss values and what’s important. For example you can say, ‘In this family we value respect and not following negative examples.” Address negative behaviors. According to Joseph Lee, M.D., American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry member and expert specializing in substance abuse, there can be telltale signs and many years of behavior before a child turns to substance abuse. “A child might have behavior problems in school,” he says. “He could be telling white lies and have trouble with remorse or empathy. These issues should be addressed.”
Middle School
Know your kids’ friends. Studies show younger teens, those 13 and
older, are much more influenced by their peers. “Be aware of where your kids are and who they are with,” Newman says. “Being vigilant can pay off.” “Ask them how their friends are using and why they are,” adds Susan Weiss, Ph.D., director of the Division of Extramural Research at The National Institute on Drug Abuse. “Tell them, ‘Your friends may be taking risks with things you may not want to do.’” Team up with other adults in your kids’ lives. “Know who the parents are,” Goldstein says. “Work together with the parents of your children’s friends to set common boundaries and monitor behavior. There’s strength in numbers. By getting to know your children’s friends’ parents and joining forces, you are essentially building a safety net for your children. Plus, supporting each other during times when you feel worn out can empower you to stay focused on helping your kids grow up healthy and drug free.” Model and introduce healthy coping mechanisms and hobbies. Middle school can be a time of high stress, Goldstein says. Children go through puberty while experiencing pressure to fit in and gaining more independence. It’s important for children to be exposed to healthy ways of coping with stress, whether it’s through daily exercise, getting out in nature, yoga, meditation, or playing their favorite sport.
Teens and Young Adults
Be Available. Parents should be honest about the risk to kids, Weiss says. “But if your child is using it find out why—some are depressed, some are anxious. They are using it to solve problems. Tell them this is not a good way and there are better ways of coping.” Discuss family history and what they see in the news. Talk about family members with addictions and family members with mental illness, Weiss says. “When a celebrity or local person in the news is in trouble for marijuana or other substances, it is an opportunity for parents to take advantage of the situation and discuss it in detail,” Newman says. “You want to say something like this happened to this person and these are the dangers of using marijuana and other drugs.” Make them aware that not everyone is doing it. According to the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health, only 7 percent (1 out of 14) of 12- to 17-year-olds have reported using marijuana in the last month. “Sadly the misconception that everyone is doing it, which is common for teens, leads to increased use,” Goldstein says. “Many prevention organizations are aware of this and are investing in marketing campaigns, which help to reduce alcohol and drug use by educating teens about the actual use by their peers, based on surveys done in a school or community.” “You can show them a site like weedmaps.com and say, ‘Look how many sites are exploiting kids and breaking federal laws. These folks don’t care about your health, they only care about making money’,” Rusche says. Cultivate a positive family culture. It’s important that you spend quality time with your kids and have a good relationship, Goldstein says. Your kids need to know that they can trust and talk to you. “You don’t know what outside influences are going to do to your teenager,” Newman says. “The only way to combat this is by how you as a parent behave.” Dana Klosner-Wehner is a Long Islander who enjoys writing about parenting issues. Her topics are quelled from her own experiences in raising two kids.
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It’s not too late to register for camps and summer programs! See our sponsored Instagram posts showing what your child can experience.
nymetroparents Rose Academy of Ballet ›
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nymetroparents Who’s ready for a fun summer of sports, swimming, arts, and more at @ymcanyc? Long Island City YMCA | 32-23 Queens Blvd., Long Island City | 212-912-2568
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nymetroparents Christ the King Summer Camps›
nymetroparents Can’t wait for summer camp at #ChristtheKing! Christ the King Summer Camps 68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village | 718-366-7454
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nymetroparents Why choose one instrument when you can explore them all? This summer, kids can learn how to play the violin, cello, guitar and more! Queens Music Academy 46-01 Greenpoint Ave., 2B, Sunnyside | 347-699-6641
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nymetroparents LIU Center for Gifted Youth ›
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nymetroparents Sharpen their minds this summer at the #LIUCenterforGiftedYouth. LIU Post Center for Gifted Youth | LIU Post, Brookville | 516-299-2160
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REGISTER NOW!
70-11 Austin Street, 2nd Floor Forest Hills, NY 11375 racademyofballet@gmail.com | 718-520-0207 www.roseacademyofballet.com
REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER CAMP 354 Lakeville Road • Great Neck, NY • 516-466-8422 Visit our website: www.CMSGN.com
FIRST SHOT
BASKETBALL SCHOOL
SUMMER BASKETBALL! July and August - 2 hour evening sessions 6:30-8:30 PM at our Bayside location
•SHOOTING CLINIC - Designed to make your child a better scorer •Focusing on Free Throws, Lay-ups, Jump Shots, etc. •Full Court Games and more Skills Training: Ages 8-10 Tuesdays and Thursdays Advanced Skills Class: Ages 11-14 Mondays and Wednesdays
Pick and Choose your Dates! Enrollment limited to 20 per class
CALL NOW TO REGISTER • 718.275.7974 Astoria • Bayside • Flushing • Forest Hills • Glendale Schedule your FREE Trial Class Today! Weekday & Weekend Fall, Winter, Spring & Summer Sessions
718.229.0033 • MusicTogetherwithMusicandMe.com
SOC SOCCER Ages 18 Months & Up
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June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Year-Round Soccer Program General Classes After School Summer Camp Futsal League Travel Team Birthday Party All Girls Class Soccer in Spanish
www.firstshotbasketball.com
CAMP MARKETPLACE
UN SUMMER F THE KING AT CHRIST
NOAH’S ARK MP
7 - 16 irls · Ages G & s y o B For ly 10 - July 14 Week #1 Ju ly 17 - July 21 Week #2 Ju
SUMMER CA M
7 - 16 Girls · Ages & s y o B r o F ly 28 #1 July 24 - Ju Boys Week ugust 4 #2 July 31- A k e e W s y o B August 11 #3 August 7 Boys Week ust 18 August 14 - Aug k e e W ls ir G
2-10 year olds Competitive Rates Weekly Swim Classes at Cross Island YMCA Weekly Trips Dance Daily Sports Program Weekly Themed Parties Water Activities, Slides, Wading Pool Park and Sprinkler Fun Academic Review Sessions Breakfast, Lunch, 2 Snacks Games, Crafts and much much more
ROYAL’S G N I K E H CHRIST T CAMP
DING A E L R E E H C ges 7 - 16 A For Girls · ust 18 ug A August 14 -
CALL
s Boys · Age For Girls & t 11 July 3 - Augush 4t ly Ju p *no cam
NOW! 38-20 Bell Blvd. Bayside, NY 11361 For more info call: (718) 279-4251
62-48 Mt. Olivet Crescent Middle Village, NY 11379 For more info call: (347) 335-0044
www.noahsarkschool.com
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QueensParent 59
CAMP MARKETPLACE
Back by popular demand!
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Christ The King Summer Camp 2017
SE
NOW ENROLLING
SUMMER CAMP
July 3 rd - August 18 th
Mon-Fri • 8am-6pm
Academic Enrichment · Music · Science Art & Crafts · Computers · Field Trips
10% OFF $50 OFF ON SIBLINGS
Dance/Theatre Arts/Sports Camp for ages 3-14
American Dance and Drama Studio & Christ the King High School have joined together for the ultimate Summer Camp Experience!
If you register by June 1
Please visit us at isteinny.com 718.575.8877 · info@isteinny.com 107-06 71 st Rd, 2 nd Floor, Forest Hills, NY 11375
NEW! NEW! NEW!
REGO PARK’S FIRST CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS CAMP! Hosted by The DanceSource & Varta Academy of Musical Arts.
July 3rd-August 11th - 6 Week Program @ Christ The King Full Day or Half Day Options Available
You may sign up for 1-5 days per week. Early Drop-Off/Late Pick Up Included Dance/Theatre Arts/Sports Camp Activities: Dance, Hip-Hop, Arts & Crafts, Jewelry Making, Acrobatics, Cooking, Computers, Drama on Camera, Vocal, Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer. Outdoor playground • Moonbounce & Water Slides
ctkny.org Please Contact Cara Nicole for more info: 917 602-6271 68-02 Metropolitan Ave. Middle Village, NY 11379 60
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Boys and girls camp to run from June 30th−August 18th, a full Mon - Fri 8:00AM to 4:00PM (or later) camp
Arts, Crafts, Dance, Music, Field Trips and more.
Choose between weekly or monthly attendance. For more information contact The DanceSource 718-997-1278, info@dancesource.net and Varta Academy of Musical Arts 718-275-2725, info@vartamusic.com
OPENHOUSES2017 Blue Dolphin Summer Camp
80-22 Parsons Blvd., Queens 718-847-6470 bluedolphincamp.com info@bluedolphincamp.com Join us for an open house on June 6 from 4:30-6:30pm.
The Highland School
193-10 Peck Ave., Fresh Meadows 718-357-4747 thenewhighlandschool.com Join us at the private Highland School (pre-K to eighth grade) for our open house on Thursday, June 9 from 9am-2pm. Separate floor for pre-K and kindergarten. Partial scholarships available.
Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp
183-02 Union Turnpike, Flushing 718-380-4145 hjcdaycamp.org daycamp@hillcrestjc.org Open houses offered on Sundays in June from 10am-12pm, and on Wednesdays from 7-9pm. Sunday tours, registration, slideshow presentation, and Q-and-A sessions.
Hug Music, Creative & Nurturing Music Lessons for Everybody Music Lessons and Music Therapy
112-01 75th Ave., Lower Level, Forest Hills 718-487-4309 hugmusicny.com contact@hugmusicny.com Hug Music will host open house registration on Saturdays, June 10 and 17 from 9am-4pm. Please contact us for more information.
Magic Day Camp
216-15 Peck Ave., Bayside 718-634-8109 magicdaycamp.com
Come to our open house sessions on Sundays, June 4, 11, and 25 starting at 1pm at Jib Lanes. Summer magic is here with swimming daily and three trips each week!
Mill Basin Day Camp
5945 Strickland Ave., Brooklyn 718-251-6200 millbasindaycamp.com Please call for open house dates and times to learn more about our camp and tour the facility.
Music Together® With Music and Me
Celebrating our new look with our new name! Wendy DeAngelis, center director (Mommy, Music & Me, Inc. since 2003) 718-229-0033 Gym-Azing in Astoria Shotokai USA Karate in Bayside Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing The Reform Temple of Forest Hills in Forest Hills The Church-in-the-Gardens in Forest Hills Tiger Schulmann’s MMA in Glendale musictogetherwithmusicandme.com info@musictogetherwithmusicandme.com Call or click to schedule a free trial class with your family at one of our open house classes and get ready to make Music Together® with Music and Me!
Oasis Day Camp-Bayside
Queensborough Community College, Bayside Library room 14 (basement) 646-519-5055 oasischildren.com bayside@oasischildren.com Join us for an information session on June 3 from 11:30am-12:30pm, and a tour from 12:45-2pm.
Queens College Summer Camp 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Queens
July 3-Aug. 24 qccamp.com Join us for an open house at Queens College Campus, Fitzgerald Gymnasium on Saturday, June 3 at 10am.
Redeemer Lutheran School
6926 Cooper Ave., Glendale 718-821-6670 rlgschool.org Join us for an open house on Saturday, June 10 from 10am-1pm.
Rhythm NY
213-01 Northern Blvd., Bayside 70-68 Kissena Blvd., 3F, Flushing 718-224-3364 rhythmny.com jackkim@rhythmny.com Rhythm NY will host open houses on Sundays during June from 9am-2pm. Sign-up is required, please visit our website.
RoboMindTech S.T.E.M. Education Center Creativity, Science, Robotics & L-E-G-O Learning Fun 185-10A Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 718-264-ROBO (7626) robomindtech.com robomindtech@gmail.com Join us for an open house at our Fresh Meadows location on Saturday, June 3 from 10-11am. RVSP via email or phone.
Samuel Field Y Day Camp
58-20 Little Neck Parkway, Little Neck 718-225-6750 x261 sfysummercamps.org agavora@sfy.org; dschaefer@sfy.org Come check out our camp open house on Sunday, June 4 from 10am-12pm at the Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds located at 75 Colonial Springs Road in Wheatley Heights.
Now Registering
for Summer and Fall at our BAYSIDE and Manhasset Locations.
Get Ready for Pre-School Ages 8 months to 3 years Where Children and GroWn-Ups learn and play ToGeTher
Mommy & Me, Partial Separation, Separation, Infant Class, ABC Enrichment Classes Narrow Age Span Maximum 10 Children Per Class • ARTS & CRAFTS • MUSIC • STORIES
• CREATIVE MOVEMENT • PLAY TIME • SNACK
(516) 433-0003
VISIT WWW.JUSTWEETWO.COM E-MAIL – INFO@JUSTWEETWO.COM OTHER LOCATIONS: MANHASSET, PLAINVIEW, BKLYN HTS., N. STAMFORD, GREENWICH, PARK SLOPE
QueensParent 61
Professional services
Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals DENTISTS & DENTAL PROVIDERS AVENUE ORTHODONTICS 150-33 14th Ave., Suite 100, Whitestone 718-767-8400; avenueortho.com Dr. Eleni Michailidis and Dr. Abraham Chahine are highly trained orthodontic specialists. Schedule a complimentary consultation at Avenue Orthodontics to learn about the options available for your entire family. DOCTORS & MEDICAL PROVIDERS LONG ISLAND CENTER FOR SPEECH AND MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY Locations across Nassau and Suffolk: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com Queens: 718-640-6767 Nassau: 516-216-1791 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. FAMILY TRAVEL ROSHNI CRUISE PLANNERS AN AMERICAN EXPRESS TRAVEL REPRESENTATIVE 718-997-8888 iwantyoutotravel.com rkarnavat@cruiseplanners.com Specializing in customized vacation packages for families or groups to any destination, worldwide. Please contact Roshni at 718-997-8888 or rkarnavat@ cruiseplanners.com for a free quote. LEGAL SERVICES BAKSHI LAW Offices in the Financial District, Long Island, and Westchester 917-244-6133 lawbakshi.com; lara.bakshi@gmail.com Bakshi Law specializes in special education law, representing parents and children with 62
disabilities, attending suspension hearings, CSE and resolution meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance on a sliding scale. THE LAW OFFICES OF JOSEPH H. NIVIN, P.C. 118-35 Queens Blvd., Suite 1220, Forest Hills 347-642-0376 153-01 Jamaica Ave., Suite 201, Jamaica The Chanin Building 122 E. 42nd Street, Suite 2100, Manhattan nivinlaw.com; jhnivin@nivinlaw.com The Law Offices of Joseph H. Nivin, P.C. focuses on family and matrimonial law, including contested and uncontested matrimonial proceedings, custody, visitation, orders of protection, child support, spousal maintenance, and paternity. PHOTOGRAPHY GLYPH CREATIVE STUDIO, MARIANA MARTINIS 2525 Borden Ave. 718-838-4827 glyphny.com At Glyph Creative Studio we would love to capture your family’s exciting and precious moments of life in a fun, beautiful, and very spontaneous way. SPECIAL NEEDS BAKSHI LAW Offices in the Financial District, Long Island, and Westchester 917-244-6133 lawbakshi.com; lara.bakshi@gmail.com Bakshi Law specializes in special education law, representing parents and children with disabilities, attending suspension hearings, CSE and resolution meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance on a sliding scale. HUG MUSIC, CREATIVE & NURTURING MUSIC LESSONS FOR EVERYBODY MUSIC LESSONS AND MUSIC THERAPY 112-01 75th Ave., Lower Level, Forest Hills 718-487-4309 hugmusicny.com contact@hugmusicny.com We offer various fun and nurturing music classes, including music lessons on multiple instruments, music therapy for children with special needs, and baby-toddler music classes.
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
LITTLE OPTICS INC. 192-07 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 53-15 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside 718-468-7500 Hablamos Español littleopticsinc@yahoo.com We provide eyeglasses and professional eye care for children, including infants and young adults. We also alleviate any self-esteem issues associated with the stigma of wearing glasses. When your child leaves Little Optics, rest assured that they will feel confident. LONG ISLAND CENTER FOR SPEECH AND MYOFUNCTIONAL THERAPY Locations across Nassau and Suffolk: East Yaphank, Farmingville, Stony Brook, Commack, Jericho, Wantagh, and Lake Success lispeechandmyo.com Queens: 718-640-6767 Nassau: 516-216-1791 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. STEPS TO SOCIALIZATION 13 South Bayles Ave., Port Washington 516-767-0266 Steps to Socialization was created to help children who have difficulty socializing. We teach children how to think socially, step by step. Working in small groups, we cover a variety of topics, including how to establish and maintain friendships and initiating and maintaining conversations. SPECIALTY APPAREL BRAVO! DANCE BOUTIQUE 108-12 72nd Ave., Forest Hills 718-309-9787 bravodanceboutique.com bravodanceboutique@gmail.com Bravo! Dance Boutique understands the value of community. Our mission is to be able to provide local families the convenience of obtaining dance apparel at competitive prices.
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. LOUIS E. MORA, PH.D., PSYCHOLOGIST P.C. 70 Glen Cove Road, Suite 201, Roslyn Heights 347-740-5690 lmoraphd.com Dr. Mora specializes in psychological testing. This includes neuropsychological testing, giftedness examinations, and evaluating for the presence of psychological disorders. TUTORS & TEST PREP 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. Enriching every qualified, gifted child. We are also a John Hopkins CTY info and SAT testing center. WOMEN’S HEALTH VIVAEVE 888-749-7888 Main Office: 108-16 63 Road, Forest Hills Surgical Center: 25-15 Crescent St., Astoria vivaeve.com; info@vivaeve.com VivaEve specializes in providing comprehensive counseling and UFE (Uterine Fibroid Embolization) procedures to women looking for a medically advanced, safe alternative to the major surgery commonly used to treat fibroids.
PartyCentral PARTY ENTERTAINMENT CLOWNS.COM Proudly Serving Westchester, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx 516-577-0000 718-971-5862 clowns.com We are a family-owned and -operated entertainment company, offering a wide range of party and entertainment services including clowns, inflatable bounce houses, characters, magicians, princesses, magic shows, face painting, and party concession rentals. PARTY PLACES @ PLAY AMUSEMENTS 229 NY-110, Farmingdale 631-815-5355 atplayamusement.com info@playamusement.com Have your next party at the newly renovated @ Play Amusements! It offers 40,000 square feet of fun, ranging from 92 arcade games, inflatables, bumper cars, and roller coaster to a carousel, disco room, and laser tag! AMERICAN DANCE & DRAMA 188-22 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows 718-479-8522 68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village americandanceanddramastudio.com 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! BOUNCEU OF COLLEGE POINT Whitepoint Center, 13225 14th Ave., College Point 646-883-JUMP (5867) bounceu.com/college-point-ny collegepoint.ny@bounceu.com BounceU of College Point is where birthdays come to life! We provide the ultimate private party and play experience. Come celebrate with us today! 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 cookie baking and decorating, cupcakes “from scratch,” muffin and scone baking, and brownies. Come in, call, or visit celebrationsinthekitchen.com for more information on parties. FANTASY FOREST AMUSEMENT PARK Fantasy Forest Amusement Park at the Flushing Meadows Carousel 111th Street and 55th Avenue, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, next to the Queens Zoo fantasyforestnyc.com info@nycarousel.com Ready for a thrilling and fun birthday party? Our package includes private
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Your local guide to entertainers, party places, activities, and other resources.
seating area, unlimited rides, games, goodie bags, and a host to help. FOREST PARK CAROUSEL Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive, Woodhaven forestparkcarousel.com info@nycarousel.com Enjoy a classic carousel-themed birthday party. Includes 2 hours in VIP party tent, unlimited rides, games, goodie bags, and a host to help. 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 Shotokai USA Karate in Bayside Babies “R” Us in College Point Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing 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 1st through 6th birthdays. Call us to customize your child’s musical birthday. We can also come to your space. SOCCER FRIENDS USA INC. 106-06 Queens Blvd., 3rd Floor Gym, Forest Hills 718-261-2403 347-756-2568 (para Español)
soccerfriendsusa.com soccerfriendsusa@hotmail.com Soccer Friends USA wants to celebrate your child’s next birthday party with you! We offer soccer parties for children ages 2 and older at several fantastic locations. THINKERTOTS 222-14 Union Turnpike, Bayside 718-740-1616 1818 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park 516-488-3414 thinkertots.com thinkertotsnhp@gmail.com We can custom design your party with open playtime and music or you can rent out our location. We provide theme paper goods. 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 private room for pizza. WHAT’S COOKING? 30 E. Main St., Oyster Bay 516-922-COOK (2665) whatscookingny.com info@whatscookingny.com Martha Stewart, Newsday, and News 12 boast What’s Cooking? is a No. 1 Choice Birthday Party Place where children can explore their creativity in culinary arts.
12:23 PM
HUG MUSIC
MUSIC THERAPY Improve attention, communication Social, fine-motor and music skills. NEW: Social Skills Group PIANO, GUITAR & VOICE Lessons Private and Duo classes ; Annual student recital HUG MELODY®: Music Groups for 6 mo to 4 yrs old NEW: Drum & Rhythm Group for 3.5 to 8 years old REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER AND FALL SESSIONS
HUG MUSIC Forest Hills HugMusicNY.com 718.487.4309 contact@hugmusicny.com
QueensParent 63
Meet the Health Care
Louis E. Mora, Ph.D., Psychologist P.C. 70 Glen Cove Road, Suite 201, Roslyn Heights 347-740-5690 lmoraphd.com
PROFESSIONAL To be in this section, call 212-315-0800 or email nympads@davlermedia.com
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: 516-216-1791 • Suffolk: 631-689-6858 Janine Stiene, speech-language pathologist, is owner and operator of Long Island Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy. Along with her group of therapists, she supports families and children across Long Island, specializing in PROMPT, feeding, myofunctional therapy, voice disorders, fluency, augmentative communication, articulation, auditory processing disorders, and expressive and receptive language disorders (adults and children). Intensive feeding therapy for individuals who suffer from texture and consistency aversions, and FEES— Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing—are also offered. There is a total of seven affiliated offices across Long Island, all participating with most major health insurance companies and offering evening and Saturday hours.
Dr. Mora works with children and adults. He specializes in psychological testing, which helps improve diagnosing and treatment planning. Such testing includes neuropsychological testing, giftedness examinations, and evaluating for the presence of psychological disorders. This includes evaluating for ADHD and possible consequences of head injury. He has years of experience doing such testing with various populations. He earned his doctorate in clinical psychology and postdoctoral education in forensic psychology from St. John’s University. He is also an adjunct professor of psychology at St. Francis College.
Dr. Michael Gruttadauria, The Center for Integrative and Innovative Therapies (The CIIT Center) 131 Sunnyside Blvd., Suite 100, Plainview 516-243-8660 theciitcenter.com
Dr. Michael Gruttadauria heads up the operations at an advanced treatment center for autism spectrum disorder called The CIIT Center. The CIIT Center’s mission is to approach each child with autism as a total entity by enhancing the biomedical, neurological, nutritional, electrical, and immune system of each of our patients and combining this with occupational, physical, and speech therapies, along with applied behavioral analysis. Our comprehensive approach starts with identifying the underlying factors that may be holding the child back, not just treating their symptoms. This gives each child every opportunity to reach their potential.
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After School - Homework Help Math, English & Writing Enrichments SHSAT - Summer & Fall Private Tutoring (One-on-one, small group) Gifted and Talented Test Prep Reading Club SAT 64 ue Bayside NY 113 214-18 73rd Aven om u.c ed ep pr Website: www.top repedu.com Email: info@topp 73 TEL: (718) 928-86
To Advertise Call 212-315-0800 64
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
Call Anita at 917-754-6678 A2+B2=C2 SINGING AND SPEECH INSTRUCTION
Singing and Speech Teacher (All Styles Ages 9 thru adult)
Education, Juilliard & Boston Conservatory of Music
• Specialty in preparation for Creative Arts Schools • Also specializes in teaching speech, articulation, diction & conversational English • Will Produce your Demo. (20 years teaching and professional performance experience) Reasonable rates, Flexible Schedule, References Available Call Sandra 718-575-8363 sandysperformancestudio.com Checkout YouTube: Sandy Bosko
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ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS
YM-YWHA - Samuel Field .....................55
Garden School........................................53
Just Wee Two.........................................61
All Star Studio.........................................21
YM-YWHA - Samuel Field Early Childhood......................................55
Highland School.....................................25
Music Together with Music and Me........58
Huntington Learning Center...................19
Young People’s Day Camp - Queens.......3
Performing Arts Conservatory................37
Jack -N- Jill Nursery...............................57
DanceSource (The)................................27 BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES American Dance & Drama......................57
CHILD CARE / DAY CARE
BounceU - College Point........................37
82nd Street Academic............................52
Fantasy Forest at the Flushing Meadows Carousel..................33
All My Children Day Care.......................37 Braithwaite Nursery School ...................16
Music Together with Music and Me........58
Christ the King Continuing Education.....59
Soccer Friends, USA Inc........................58
Crayon Box (The)...................................31
USTA BJK National Tennis Center.........15
Ivy Day School........................................15
YMCA of Greater NY - LIC.....................19
Jack -N- Jill Nursery...............................57
YM-YWHA - Samuel Field .....................55
Noah’s Ark..............................................59
JEI Learning Center................................68 KENT Prep.............................................58 Noah’s Ark..............................................59
Queens Music Academy.........................53 Rhythm NY.............................................31 YMCA of Greater NY - LIC.....................19
Rainbow Child Development Center...... 11
PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING
Redeemer Lutheran School....................25
American Dance & Drama......................57
RoboMindTech........................................27 The Church-in-the-Gardens Nursery School.......................................12
RELIGIOUS Redeemer Lutheran School....................25
Tiny Footsteps........................................14 YM-YWHA - Samuel Field Early Childhood......................................55
RETAIL
Rainbow Child Development Center...... 11 The Church-in-the-Gardens Nursery School.......................................12
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT /
SERVICES
Tiny Footsteps........................................14
EVENTS / OUTINGS
YM-YWHA - Samuel Field .....................55
Glyph Creative Studio.............................61
American Dance & Drama......................57
Fantasy Forest at the Flushing Meadows Carousel..................33
CLASSES
Arts, Dance, Music Camp.......................60
Land of Make Believe.............................33
82nd Street Academic............................52
SPECIAL EVENTS
Christ the King Continuing Education.....59
Wheel Fun Rentals.................................33
DanceSource (The)................................27
Barnes and Noble.....................................9
Countryside Montessori School..............58
Wild West City........................................33
Just Wee Two.........................................61
Crayon Box (The)...................................31
LIU Center for Gifted Youth....................57
First Shot Basketball...............................58
Performing Arts Conservatory................37
Garden School........................................53
Rhythm NY.............................................31
Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp.........56
RoboMindTech........................................27
Wild West City........................................33
DANCE
FITNESS
Hug Music...............................................63
All Star Studio.........................................21
Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp.........56
Huntington Learning Center...................19
Magic Day Camp......................................7
Janine Stiene Suffolk Center
CAMPS All My Children Day Care.......................37 All Star Studio.........................................21 American D&D Christ the King Summer Camp.......................................60
Hug Music...............................................63 IStein......................................................60 Ivy Day School........................................15 Jack -N- Jill Nursery...............................57
American Dance & Drama......................57
JEI Learning Center................................68
Arts, Dance, Music Camp.......................60
KENT Prep.............................................58
DanceSource (The)................................27
Magic Day Camp......................................7
Hillcrest Jewish Center Day Camp.........56
Mill Basin Day Camp .............................13
Rose Academy of Ballet.........................58
Music Together with Music and Me........58 Noah’s Ark..............................................59 Oasis Children Services.........................39 Performing Arts Conservatory................37 Queens College Summer Camp.............43 Queens Music Academy.........................53 Rhythm NY.............................................31 RoboMindTech........................................27 Rose Academy of Ballet.........................58 Soccer Friends, USA Inc........................58
FAMILY TRAVEL Land of Make Believe.............................33 Wheel Fun Rentals.................................33
Barnes and Noble.....................................9
NYC Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene...16
Fantasy Forest at the Flushing Meadows Carousel..................33 SPECIAL NEEDS Bakshi Law.............................................49 C.I.I.T. Center...................................21, 64
Mill Basin Day Camp .............................13
for Speech........................................31, 64
Queensborough United Soccer Club......63
Louis Mora, Ph.D..............................49, 64
Rose Academy of Ballet.........................58
SPORTS
HEALTH
Christ the King Continuing Education.....59
DEVELOPMENTAL
C.I.I.T. Center...................................21, 64
First Shot Basketball...............................58
C.I.I.T. Center...................................21, 64
Fidelis Care New York..............................5
Magic Day Camp......................................7
Huntington Learning Center...................19
LIC Dental Associates .............................2 Louis Mora, Ph.D..............................49, 64
Mill Basin Day Camp .............................13
Janine Stiene Suffolk Center for Speech........................................31, 64
NYC Dept. of Health & Mental Hygiene...16
Louis Mora, Ph.D..............................49, 64
Tobacco Free NY....................................27
EDUCATION 82nd Street Academic............................52 All My Children Day Care.......................37
Queens College Summer Camp.............43 Queensborough United Soccer Club......63 Soccer Friends, USA Inc........................58
LEGAL SERVICES
USTA BJK National Tennis Center.........15
Bakshi Law.............................................49
YM-YWHA - Samuel Field Early Childhood......................................55
The Church-in-the-Gardens Nursery School.......................................12
Bakshi Law.............................................49
MUSIC
Barnes and Noble.....................................9
Arts, Dance, Music Camp.......................60
TUTORS
Tiny Footsteps........................................14
Braithwaite Nursery School ...................16
Hug Music...............................................63
IStein......................................................60
USTA BJK National Tennis Center.........15
Crayon Box (The)...................................31
IStein......................................................60
JEI Learning Center................................68
YMCA of Greater NY - LIC.....................19
Countryside Montessori School..............58
Ivy Day School........................................15
KENT Prep.............................................58
QueensParent 65
Rod Howe and Mark Pedersen
VOICES Three Decades and Counting ››
How we, a gay couple with two adopted sons, raised our kids during changing times By Rod Howe and Mark Pedersen
W
e met in Boston in 1986 and quickly cut to the chase. One of us indicated that he planned to adopt a child, since he had known he wanted to be a parent since the age of 12. The other shared he was HIV positive and had never thought about the possibility of parenthood. Fast forward through a brief romance, moving in together, marching in front of then-governor Michael Dukakis’ home to oppose an intolerant foster care policy, and then turning to foreign adoption options. It is now 31 years later; we have raised our two adopted sons from Cambodia and now are enjoying being grandfathers to two granddaughters. The journey in many ways is very different than the one we had envisioned, but it is ours, and we are in equal measures humbled, proud, a bit bruised, and ultimately contented. As far as we are concerned, whoever coined the phrase “Practice makes perfect” clearly was not a parent. We have made our share of mistakes—as did our parents and their parents and so on throughout history—but we haven’t been terrible parents. Sometimes it was the thing we swore we would never say to our child that we did say in the heat of the moment. Sometimes it was something of our own creation that was equally hurtful or certainly not very helpful. Sometimes it seemed like we didn’t have better options. Now that our sons are adults (ages 19 and 30) the challenges they present are vastly different from when they were younger (not surprisingly), and we are sometimes at a total loss for how to react or what to say. We try to remember the maxim that if you openly disagree with something your child is doing he will tend to cling all the more tightly to that behavior. And as parents of children from another culture, we have always had to consider whether our perspective is objectively “right” or only makes sense from the standpoint of the lens with which we see the world. Biological parents sometimes say their children are so different from themselves that they swear the child must have been switched at birth. We held no expectations that our children would look like us or act like us, and they haven’t disappointed. The world certainly has changed since we were in our 20s, especially in terms of how alternative families are perceived and
The authors’ sons when they were children, circa 2001
received. Not too long ago our teenage son introduced us to one of his friends, and she shrieked, “You have two gay dads! That’s awesome!” We were surprised that she—and everyone else in the school—didn’t already know, and we wondered if our son was somehow ashamed of our family constellation. (Weren’t we all ashamed of our parents for one reason or another at some point in our lives?) On the other hand, maybe he just did not see any need to mention it. In his last year of high school, this same young man came out to us as bisexual in the midst of a play in which he was acting. He had blocked us from a number of Facebook posts in which he had been questioning who he was, but some family members and friends had reported back to us already. Prior to this we had always been forbidden from setting foot anywhere near where he might be street dancing or acting in a play, so we knew something was up when he invited us to this performance. I’m afraid that the shock value wasn’t present on our faces as he made his announcement during the talk-back after the play. Both of our sons have felt free to experiment with who they are and are very accepting of others whose way of being in the world may not be considered the norm. They are very empathetic to those who are bullied or are somehow labeled and treated as different or other. Perhaps we haven’t done such a bad job after all.
Rod Howe is the product of a large, ever-expanding, and inclusive family from upstate New York, where he and Mark Pedersen have resided for the past 27 years. He is now the executive director of a history center after retiring from Cornell University. Pedersen, originally from the Boston area, now works for a local Unitarian Universalist congregation. Their two sons and grandchildren all live within 10 miles of each other.
66
June 2017 | nymetroparents.com
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