Issuu

WestchesterParent MAY 2017

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

Are You Raising a

Sugar

Addict? Tips for cutting back

SpecialParent The Campaign to

End the

‘R Word’

Kids Cover Contest 2017 See your child on our cover!

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

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WestchesterParent

NYMetroParents Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

Contents

May 2017 ››

Features

16 The Not-So-Sweet Truth Too much added sugar is detrimental to our health—here’s why and what you can do

20 Fitting Fitness Into Your Day Some easy ways to make sure you’re exercising daily 24 Avocado Toast—Elevated Kick up this basic meal with unexpected additions 26 Growing Up Mixed There are more mixed-race families than ever, but parents still face challenges raising kids in two cultures. 38 Putting a Stop to a Slur Parents of kids with special needs join other advocates to push for an end to the ‘R-word.’

Connections

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 Quotables 11 NYMP Q&A: Sam Weinman shares the benefits of losing. 58 Voices: Why I’m thankful for all the parenting advice I got along the way

Fun & Activities 12 13 14 28 31

DIY Corner: Fizzy Bath Bombs Media Matters: Summer Movies Get Your Kid on Our Cover! Outing: Gulliver’s Gate Family Activities Calendar

Directories

Family Activities CALENDAR ››

40 54 55 55 56 57 57

Camp Guide Party Central Professional Services Open Houses Party Planner Meet the Health Care Professional Advertisers’ Index

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

››

ON THE COVER ›› 14 Kids Cover Contest 2017 16 Are You Raising a Sugar Addict? 38 The Campaign to End the ‘R Word’ facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

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

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MAY 2017 • Vol.16 • No.7

NYMetroParents Publications EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Michael Kress MANAGING EDITOR: Katelin Walling

EDITOR’S NOTE

DEPUTY EDITOR: Caitlin Berens SENIOR EDITOR: Bethany Braun-Silva ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Samantha Neudorf REGIONAL EDITORS:

Healthy Kids, Healthy Parents

Samantha Beranbom (Rockland); Karen Demeter (Suffolk); Rosalind Muggeridge (Brooklyn); Jamie McGillian (Westchester); Dorette Saunders (Nassau); Emma Steven (Manhattan);

efore my kids were born, I thought I’d never be the type of parent to negotiate— let alone do battle—about desserts and sweets. Sure, I’d let my kids eat a moderate amount of junk, but I’d also be sure to have plenty of yummy fruits and vegetables around. Perhaps we’d cut them into fun shapes or make other irresistible but healthy snack creations. Then I actually had children. I know I am not the only one whose kids’ craving for sweets seems insatiable and all-consuming—and no, fruits and vegetables will not cut it. I am sometimes amazed at how much time and effort they spend thinking about—and conniving to acquire—their next snack. I am a firm believer in “everything in moderation,” but when it comes to kids and sugar, how much is too much? In this issue, Katelin Walling speaks with a nutritionist and other experts to find out, and the answer may surprise you (p. 16). Of course, our kids follow our example, so modeling a healthy lifestyle is essential. But how many of us feel we have the time to take care of ourselves and hit the gym with any regularity? To help fix that, we’re offering tips on how to make time and space for fitness in our busy lives (p. 20). And if you want to truly relax after a good workout, suggest that your child make you our “Fizzy Bath Bombs” (p. 12) for Mother’s Day. If it’s May, that also means the NYMetroParents Kids Cover Contest is in full swing! You know your kid is the cutest in the world, so go ahead, enter the contest for a chance to see him or her on the cover of one of our magazines. See p. 14 for more details and enter at nymetroparents.com/cover. We’re proud to feature our contest finalists on our covers throughout the year, showcasing amazing local kids who reflect the diversity of backgrounds, races, ethnicities, and abilities found in our communities—this month is no exception. As parents, we often tell our kids people come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors—differences that we should embrace and celebrate. This month, we have two in-depth reports on the challenges some kids face for being different. In the first, Samantha Neudorf explores the growth of multiracial families in our area by speaking with several local parents in mixed-race families—and she reflects on her own experiences growing up in two cultures (p. 26). In the second, we meet a group of moms who have been working hard in recent years to end use of the “R-word” (p. 38). Bullying takes many forms, but one pervasive example is calling kids with special needs “retards.” It’s a painful slur that is used all too often by adults as well as kids, in casual conversation as well as in schoolyard taunts. Sabrina Sooknanan takes us inside the efforts to end the use of that word. Happy Mother’s Day—and happy May—to all!

Gail Warren (Queens) DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke EDITORIAL INTERN: Sabrina Sooknanan

ADVERTISING SALES Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239 Jessica Leonhardt, Jeunesse Jackson, Linda Pierce 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 CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Jiyon Son DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Robert Reynolds DIRECTOR | DIGITAL CONTENT DEVELOPMENT: Sara Wentworth

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLLER: David Friedman

MARKETING

HEAD OF MARKETING: Jacqueline Lachman

ADMINISTRATION

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

Michael Kress Editorial Director, NYMetroParents

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

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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NEW PLACES, NEW PROGRAMS

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Who: Steffi Nossen School of Dance What’s New: Dancing Tots, a six-week program for caregivers and children ages 1-3, and Story Book Camp, a five-session summer camp for kids ages 3-5. Dancing Tots, held in Chappaqua and White Plains, focuses on the development of motor skills and musicality while accompanied by caregivers. Story Book Camp, held in White Plains, uses a different children’s story as the theme each week to interpret into movement, music, and art. Want More Info: Music Conservatory of Westchester, 216 Central Ave., White Plains; The Church of St. Mary the Virgin, 191 S. Greeley Ave., Chappaqua; 914-328-1900; info@steffinossen.org; steffinossen.org

Courtesy Ezra Goh

Dance School Adds Class and Summer Camp to Area Locations

Steffi Nossen School of Dance offers classes and performance opportunities for dancers of all ages.

Who: Chocolations What’s New: A chocolate piñata filled with candy, plus make-your-own pizza, which are party add-ons. The basic party package at Chocolations in Mamaroneck includes two hands-on activities: customized chocolate bars and cupcake decorating. Now children can also enjoy a chocolate piñata and custom-made pizza. The child of honor gets to smash the chocolate piñata, and guests can collect its candy contents in goodie bags. For make-your-own pizza, children get to stretch out the dough and add toppings; the staff will then bake it for children to enjoy during the party. Want More Info: 607 E. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck; 914-777-3600; chocolations.com

Courtesy Chocolations

Sweets Shop in Mamaroneck Expands Party Offerings

In addition to hosting parties, Chocolations can also bring chocolates and treats to wherever the party is being held.

Who: Corbin’s Crusaders What’s New: A Greenwich, CT, location for the sports and adventures day camp. The 38-acre location includes outdoor and indoor facilities such as sports fields, an adventure course, and pools.Campers ages 3-14 of all skill levels are welcome to attend and work with professional instructors on a range of sports including baseball, soccer, tennis, and flag football. Campers can attend all or part of the camp, held from June 19-Aug. 11. Door-to-door busing from as far as Manhattan is available, with campers engaging in age-appropriate trivia as they commute. Want More Info: 471 North St., Greenwich, CT; 212-875-8174; info@corbinscrusaders.com; corbinscrusaders.com/summer-day-camp

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Courtesy Corbin’s Crusaders

Sports Summer Camp Opens Connecticut Location

“We have a close-knit community and all are welcome to join it,” says Peter Corbin, owner of Corbin’s Crusaders.

Mignon Furman, Founding Director

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UOTABLES There are times, be it a short drive to school or a longer weekend trip, when I just want to lose myself in a blast of ‘Enter Sandman’ by Metallica without three toneless backup singers in the back seat fighting for the air-drumming rights. Yes, they know all the words. Even my 3 year old. —Lea Farrow, in a post entitled “7 Unexpected Things I Miss About Life Before Kids,” on her blog TheMethodMother.com

in an instagram 55 degrees! Perfect weather to follow dinosaur tracks and learn about fossils at #DinosaurStatePark #dinosaurs #travelandlearn #nyckids #weekendplans#littletraveler #familytravel #hartford #connecticut (Posted by @thelandoftwo, aka Aurora Aquino, a New York mom)

SKIPPING HOMEWORK

in an instagram Fearless #internationalwomensday #fearlessgirl #fearless #wallstreet #womenofthefuture #bravegirl #forceisfemale #fearce #disneyjunior #disney #disneyjr #artmonte (Posted by @a_a_almonte, aka Alexandra Almonte, a New York mom)

“When we bought this house, we pictured ourselves staying here forever, but I guess that’s normal. Humans don’t put down roots while simultaneously planning to uproot them. Still, I have spent the last several weeks mourning the childhood I assumed would take place right here.” —Rebecca Woolf, in a post entitled “And Keep Sailing,” on her blog GirlsGoneChild.net

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

“After giving up homework, she was able to spend hours doing things that children should have time to do: swing on the swing set, blow bubbles, plop down on the grass and watch clouds go by, catch fireflies, and make wishes upon stars. She could wonder about things.” —Diane Roncone in an article entitled “Why I Let My Daughter Say No to Homework;” read the whole thing at

nymetroparents.com/no-homework.

MORE NYMetroParents.com HIGHLIGHTS: CRAFTS FOR MOM: Make it a flowery Mother’s Day with these crafts (nymetroparents.com/mothers-day-crafts). SAIL AWAY: Where to go catch a boat in the NYC area (nymetroparents.com/boat-rides). UNDER THE SEA! Discover a marine life paradise at Atlantis Bahamas (nymetroparents.com/atlantis). SPRING IN NYC: Check out all the fun NYC has to offer this time of year (nymetroparents.com/nyc-spring).

NYMP Q&A

N U F ER HERE

Losing Is Winning ››

S M T R M A T U S S

By Bethany Braun-Silva

am Weinman is the digital editor at Golf Digest and has been a sports journalist for 20 years. His new book Win at Losing, which was inspired by his kids, shows the benefits of losing and what we can learn from it. What do we win from losing? Losing is great feedback. When you lose at a certain endeavor, you are learning something about where you need improvement. Losing exposes weakness and things you can be improving upon. So if it’s sport and you lose, you are ultimately given an indication at what you need to work on. The second thing is character. Losing is an inevitable part of life and the more we navigate that dynamic the better we get at it and the better we’re equipped to handle losing in whatever realm. Losing is a great character-building moment in that you are given the opportunity to experience something difficult and emerge from it and that is ultimately a really great growth opportunity. What should parents do after their child experiences defeat? I would start by telling your child everyone loses and encourage them not to despair when you go through these moments because it may not be right away but there will be something good to come out of that loss and something positive to take from it. If you can get your kid to wrap their brain around that and know good can come from losing, then they’re less afraid of trying new things because they will be less afraid of failing. The undesirable outcome can yield something positive. Anything parents shouldn’t do? The first thing is to not put your kid in a position where they are shielded from failure. There is a point when winning and losing is just part of the deal of growing up and I would be very leery of trying to protect your kid from that. Ultimately you are depriving them the opportunity to experience it and learn from it. The second thing is when your kids are upset after a loss, even if it seems trivial to you, don’t belittle how they are feeling. Try to meet them where they are and recognize that while it may seem insignificant to you, it’s a big deal to them and you should validate their feelings. Do you suggest letting kids win at a young age? Or should parents play fair from the beginning? At a very young age you are dealing with emotion versus reason so my feeling is when you’re engaging in an activity with your kid you shouldn’t be rewarding winning or losing as much as rewarding trying something different. Try to focus on the process of playing the game or having fun and that’s true even as they get older, that yes you don’t want to shelter your kids from failure, but you can still define success a lot of different ways. It can be trying something new or sticking to a process or plan, or when they understand the rules. There’s value in commending that.

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DIY CORNER TREAT YOUR MOM

Fizzy Bath Bombs

The main ingredient in bath bombs is the chemical sodium bicarbonate, aka baking soda. The other key ingredient is citric acid. These chemicals don’t do much as dry powders, but in water they react and dissolve to produce tiny bubbles of carbon dioxide gas, which is what causes the fizzzzzzzing! (A similar reaction is commonly used in volcano science projects to create foaming “lava.”) The fizzing helps the bath bombs dispense faster and, combined with the hot water, spreads whatever yummy scent you have chosen. Pamper Mom this Mother’s Day by making these with her favorite scents and colors for a bath-time treat she’s sure to enjoy! Maker Checklist Large bowl ½ cup citric acid 1 cup baking soda ½ cup cornstarch ½ cup Epsom salt Small bowl or glass

1 tsp. essential oil 1 tsp. water 1 tsp. olive oil Soap colorant in various colors Multiple small bowls Small plastic containers

Directions 1. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. 2. Stir wet ingredients together in a small bowl or glass. 3. V ery slowly add the wet mixture to the dry mixture and keep mixing! Mix, mix, mix, so it doesn’t fizz and bubble up! After it’s all combined, let your mixture sit for a few minutes. It should feel like wet sand and stay together when you squeeze it in your hand. If it’s still too dry or crumbly, add a drop of water or olive oil—but be careful not to let it get too wet! 4. S eparate the mixture into smaller bowls and add a drop of soap colorant. Mix well! We found mixing by hand was the most effective way to get an even color. It’s also nice to leave one bowl white for layering.

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

5. Layer your mixture into molds. We used plastic ornaments split in half and experimented with small plastic containers and other recyclables, like yogurt cups. 6. Pack the layers down tightly into the mold by pressing with your fingers. 7. Let dry for a few minutes before carefully removing the bath bomb from the mold. Don’t try to handle the bath bomb yet! Turn it out from its mold directly onto a surface to dry, and let dry a few hours or overnight. 8. Drop in a warm bath and enjoy! Reprinted with permission from Curious Jane © 2017 by Girls Dream Out Loud Inc. Published by Sterling Children’s Books. Photography by Elissa Josse and Samantha Razook Murphy.

Media Matters: Summer Movies

5 Movies Your Kids Will Want to See in May and June

Guardians of the Galaxy

Opens May 5 • Target Ag

Vol. 2

e: 11-13+

The sequel to the hit space adventure promises to be an actionpacked good time.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Th

Opens May 19 • Target Ag

e Long Haul

e: 9-12

The fourth Wimpy Kid mo vie has a new cast, but exp ect the same silly antics and potty hum or for which the series is kno wn.

Captain Underpants: The

Opens June 2 • Target Ag

First Epic Movie

e: 5-8

Expect plenty of rude lan guage and cartoonish vio lence in an animated movie based on the hugely popular boo k series.

Cars 3

Opens June 16 • Target

Age: 5-8

The Pixar racecar threequ el looks family-friendly, but with some intense moments.

Despicable Me 3  Opens June 30 • Target

Age: 5-8

The third film in the popula r, kid-friendly supervillain series promises to be a fun choice for kids and parents to enjoy together, with lots of laughs and positive messages.

Our Partner: Common Sense Media An independent nonprof it that helps families make smart media choices. Check out thousands of ratings and reviews at commonsensemedia.org

See more at NYMetroParents.com/media

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WestchesterParent 13

Get Your Kid on Our Cover!

››

WestchesterParent OCTOBER 2016

NYMETROPARENTS.COM

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Time for a Cellphone? Knowing when kids are ready for independence

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May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

•

THE POWER OF PRESCHOOL

ave you ever looked at the cover of this magazine and thought to yourself, “My child should be featured there”? Well, now’s your chance! The 2017 Kids Cover Contest will open April 24. And this year we’ve expanded it to include 10 finalists, all of whom will be professionally photographed and have a chance to be on our cover. Here’s how it works: 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. Our editors will choose nine of the finalists, and the 10th is the Fan Favorite—the entrant with the most votes. So after you enter, be sure to send the link to your friends and family and post it to your social media to get votes for your child. After the photo shoot, our editors will choose two winners from among the 10 finalists, and both are guaranteed to be on a future cover of the magazine. One winner receive a photo shoot from Barbizon and a one-year scholarship to Barbizon Modeling and Acting School, while the other will win a free two-night stay at Kalahari Resort in the Poconos, the largest indoor water park in the U.S. The rest of the finalists might be featured on future covers as well, and the Fan Favorite will win four tickets to Sesame Place. The cover contest is open to children ages 2-16 and ends June 9. Enter at nymetroparents.com/cover!

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The Not-So-Sweet Truth

››

Too much added sugar is detrimental to our health—here’s why, and what you can do about it. By Katelin Walling

ifty-six. That’s how many different names the food industry uses for sugar. Here’s another number: 19½. That’s, on average, how many teaspoons of added sugar each person in the U.S. consumes each day. To be clear: We’re talking about added sugar—the sugar the food industry adds to foods, not the sugar found naturally in foods. The daily maximum recommendation from the American Heart Association? Six teaspoons for women, 9 teaspoons for men, less than 6 teaspoons for children ages 2-18, and zero for children ages 2 and younger. Ready for another? One-quarter: the number of pounds of added sugar Americans are consuming daily, on average, which equates to 90-100 pounds of added sugar annually. “The problem is you’re really supposed to be consuming zero [added sugar], but you could consume an ounce or an ounce and a half,” says Robert Lustig, M.D., a pediatric endocrinologist, professor of pediatrics in the Division of Endocrinology at University of California, San Francisco, and author of Fat Chance: Beating the Odds Against Sugar, Processed Food, Obesity, and Disease. So, why is it a big deal that we’re consuming so much added sugar? Dr. Lustig—who was also featured prominently in the 2015

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

documentary Sugar Coated (available on Netflix) and is a member of the SugarScience team, an authoritative source for the scientific evidence about sugar and its impact on health—shares what we need to know and think about before saying “Yes” to dessert.

Glucose vs. Fructose

There are two main sugars found in foods, and it’s important to know the difference because one is necessary and one isn’t. Glucose, which is found in starch, is the energy of life, according to Dr. Lustig. “Glucose is so important that if you don’t consume it, your body makes it,” he says. The liver has a way of turning fat into glucose called gluconeogenesis. So while it’s necessary for life, it’s not necessary to eat. Fructose, on the other hand, is an entirely different molecule. “There’s no animal cell on the planet that needs fructose for any reaction at all,” Dr. Lustig explains, adding that it’s sweet, it’s energy, and it’s calories, but it’s not nutrition.

Effects of Too Much Sugar

Acutely, too much sugar doesn’t have significant effects on the body. It’s the long-term effects that are the issue.

Dr. Lustig says there are three things fructose does to our bodies that glucose does not: Liver fat: “Because of the way fructose is processed, it goes to the liver and excess gets turned into liver fat, and that liver fat gums up the workings of the liver. When that happens, you end up with a phenomenon called insulin resistance. You have a situation where the liver’s not responding to the insulin signal so the pancreas has to make extra,” Dr. Lustig says, which raises insulin levels all over the body and leads to hyperinsulinemia. Excess insulin, Dr. Lustig explains, does two things in your body to make you gain weight: It turns energy into fat cells, and it blocks leptin, the hormone that sends a signal to the brain when you’ve had enough to eat. Continued insulin secretion is also one of the major factors involved in chronic metabolic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, cancer, and dementia. “All of those are referred to in total as metabolic syndrome. Some people will get some of those diseases, some people will get others of those diseases, and some unfortunate people will get all of them,” Dr. Lustig says. “Anything that drives insulin is going to drive those, and because of the liver fat issue, fructose drives it.” Aging: Have you ever thought of why bananas brown? It’s a chemical reaction called the Millard reaction—the aging reaction. “All carbohydrates bind to proteins, all carbohydrates cause a mild reaction. But because of fructose’s unique chemistry, it causes that mild reaction to occur seven times faster and generate a hundred times the number of oxygen radicals called oxidative stress that damage proteins and lipids inside cells,” Dr. Lustig says. “So basically sugar drives aging faster than other carbohydrates.”

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Dopamine: Fructose causes the reward system to release dopamine, the reward response. When dopamine is released, it fosters continued consumption, according to Dr. Lustig. “That’s something only fructose does. So you get into a vicious cycle of consumption and disease.” To paint a clearer picture, Dr. Lustig compares fructose to alcohol: “Alcohol is calories, but it’s not nutrition. Consumption of alcohol is dangerous in two ways: It’s dangerous acutely, and it’s dangerous chronically. Fructose is not dangerous acutely, but it is dangerous chronically for the same reason that alcohol is. In fact, fructose and alcohol are metabolized exactly the same in the liver, and that’s why kids are getting the disease of alcohol—Type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease—without alcohol. Fructose sugar is the alcohol of the child. While we have the capacity to metabolize a limited amount of alcohol, excess is dangerous. While we have a limited capacity to metabolize the sugar in our diet, excess is dangerous.”

What Happens When You Cut Sugar From Your Diet?

When sugar is cut from your diet, “your metabolic primers get better, and you feel better, and your metabolic parameters improve, and you detox, and you don’t crave it as much. Everything gets better,” Dr. Lustig says, referring to a study his team published in October 2015. For that study, the research team studied the diets of 33 Latino and African-American kids with metabolic syndrome (obesity plus at least one other chronic medical condition) to determine a home-baseline diet. Then, for the next 10 days, sugar was cut from the kids’ diets. “What we did was we gave them starch instead so they would not loose weight. We took pastries out, and continued on next page ››

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‹‹ continued from previous page

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we put the bagels in. … We took the chicken teriyaki out, and we put turkey hotdogs in. We gave them processed foods, but there were no added-sugar foods,” Dr. Lustig explains. After those 10 days, the kids were assessed, and “every aspect of their metabolic health improved and their liver fat reversed. That is without any change in calories or any change in weight. This shows fructose is the primary driver because when we gave them extra glucose instead of fructose, it got better unrelated to calories and unrelated to weight,” Dr. Lustig says. “That proves that sugar is the driver of these metabolic diseases. It may not be the only driver, but it certainly is the primary driver, and the one that children are exposed to.”

Easy Tips for Cutting Sugar

When working the following tips into your family’s lifestyle, the first thing to keep in mind is to cut back gradually and make realistic goals for your family. “It’s really hard to go to an extreme. I work with families that want to cut everything all at once, and that’s usually unsuccessful,” says Nicole Silber, R.D., a pediatric nutritionist based in New York City. “Meet your child where they’re at, engage them in the plan, and cut back slowly, which I think will end up yielding more success than to cut back drastically.” Be weary of foods labeled as fat-free. “There are a bunch of fatfree items that tend to be loaded with sugar to compensate for the loss of fat in the product, especially in baked goods,” Silber says.

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Opt for fresh fruit over dried fruit or fruit sauce. With dehydrated fruit and sauces, it’s a matter of the source of sugar being concentrated, Silber says. For example, when you dehydrate a plum, what’s left is the fiber and natural fruit sugar. “It ends up being much smaller, so you could eat five prunes, which will fill your stomach the same amount as one plum, but you’re consuming five times the amount of sugar because you’re essentially eating five plums,” Silber explains. The same thing happens with applesauce. “It will take a child a few minutes to eat a whole apple, which has the skin, the fiber, the liquid. When you boil it down and puree it into a sauce, you can probably have four or five apples in the same amount of time it would take to eat one whole apple,” Silber adds. Choose plain yogurt over flavored. Yogurt can be unhealthy if you’re not picking the right one, Silber says. “If a child is used to high-sugar yogurts, you can add in your own fruit, jam, maple syrup, honey,” she advises. “You can even add in your own white sugar. I’m confident you will add in less than the food companies.” And make sure you check the labels on baby yogurts; Silber says some brands are really high in added sugar. Preventatively, don’t introduce infants to juice or sweetened foods in their first year. Silber advises to give babies more veggies and less fruit to accustom their taste buds to less sweet foods. When shopping for baby foods or making your own, opt for blends that have one or no fruit. Cut down your weekly dessert intake. Wherever your family is now, cut back one to two servings per week, Silber advises. “If a family has dessert every night, I would say cut back to five nights per week” Silber says. Another option is to substitute fresh fruit and eat the fruit when it’s extra ripe because it will taste sweeter.

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Drink water rather than sweetened beverages. Nearly two-thirds of kids in the U.S., ages 2-19, consumed at least one sugar-sweetened beverage per day, and roughly 30 percent of children consumed two

or more, between 2011-2014, according to a study published in January by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics. That includes soda, fruit drinks, sports and energy drinks, and sweetened coffees and teas. Silber says most kids don’t need to consume beverages aimed toward athletes. “Usually water and a nutritious snack before and after will be sufficient to restore the nutrition and hydration,” she says. Leave sugar out of recipes when possible. With cooking, Silber suggests cutting the sugar from the recipe entirely, or cutting it in half. “I do this a lot where I see a recipe for a marinade that has a lot of honey or white sugar that I will eliminate and I still think the recipe comes out tasty,” she says. For baking, Silber says to look for recipes that use more natural forms of sugar, such as honey, agave, or maple syrup because they’re more concentrated, so you’ll use less of it. And remember: “There is a time and a place for [sweets],” Silber says. “Just because it doesn’t have the white sugar doesn’t mean it’s a food that should be given all the time.” Read and understand the Nutrition Facts labels on packaged foods. The Food and Drug Administration announced a new Nutrition Facts label in May 2016, which among other changes includes an “Includes X g Added Sugars” field. Food manufacturers will need to implement the new label by July 26, 2018, while smaller companies will have an additional year to comply, according to the FDA. Until then, Silber suggests thinking about it in terms of a sugar packet, which is approximately 4 grams of sugar. If you choose a food product that has 8-12 grams of sugar per serving, “envision yourself opening up two or three sugar packets and pouring that into your dish. That can become quite alarming,” she says. Silber recommends choosing condiments (ketchup, salad dressing, and marinades) with less than 5 grams of sugar per serving, and foods (breads, yogurts, cereals, etc.) with no more than 10 grams of sugar per serving. An easy way to keep track of your added sugar intake is to convert the grams per serving into teaspoons. There are 4.2 grams of sugar per teaspoon, Dr. Lustig says. That comes out to less than 25 grams per day for children and teens, 25.2 grams for women, and 37.8 grams for men. “We’re currently at about 90 [grams per day] on average. That’s a big difference,” Dr. Lustig says.

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Breastfeeding is not special; it is normal. Human beings are mammals, and mammals, after pregnancy, lactate. There is nothing special about it, it’s just natural. Realizing that breastfeeding is normal and not special helps put things in perspective. It is true that breastfed babies have health benefits over formula fed babies. It is formula feeding that puts babies at increased risk of certain infections and illnesses. Breast milk is sometimes called, “ Baby’s First Immunization.” However, breast milk is not a magical potion and cannot protect babies from every ailment that comes along. Do not forego modern medicine because your baby is breastfeeding. Breast milk cannot prevent polio, tetanus, measles or other vaccine preventable illnesses. There is always so much focus on the health of babies and breastfeeding, but what about moms? After pregnancy, a woman’s body is EXPECTED to lactate. Again, this is natural for all mammals and is part of the physiologic process that helps reset the female body after giving birth. In a sense, if you turn off lactation, you are not allowing the body to “reset” and you are putting it at risk. Women who do not lactate are at increased risk of obesity, heart disease, hypertension and diabetes. While breastfeeding is always a personal choice, it is important for women and their doctors to fully appreciate the health implications of skipping lactation and breastfeeding after pregnancy. So, take breast milk and lactation off the pedestal and give them the support they deserve. They are normal and expected parts of a healthy life.

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Fitting Fitness Into Your Day

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As parents, our lives are crazy busy, so here are some easy ways to make sure you’re finding ways to exercise. By Rosalind Muggeridge

espite all the advice we parents get about self-care these days, our busy schedules—kids, work, extracurricular activities, and for many of us, aging parents—ensure that our fitness goals consistently end up last on our priority lists. To help remedy that, I spoke with Rachel Lozoff, a Pilates teacher, dancer, and founder of Daily Body Pilates, to get some tips for seasoned parents and new moms alike on developing and, even trickier, maintaining productive fitness habits.

You May Already Be Doing It

Make your daily routine work for you. It’s a fact that many of us are abysmally overscheduled, so finding an hour three times a week to hit the gym may not be practical for everyone. (Kudos to you if you are making that happen!) It turns out you can still work fitness into your life by simply noticing and taking advantage of what you may already be doing. “I always tell my clients that everything counts,” Lozoff says. “Walking up the stairs instead of taking the elevator, playing with and picking up your kids, stretching or moving your body while you watch TV, or 20

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

even adding a little aerobic exercise to your daily life by walking everywhere you normally walk, just a little more quickly.” Be aware. I remember being surprised at how physically strenuous taking care of my first child felt. Whether it’s wrangling a fractious toddler into a stroller or spinning kids around during a dance party, parenting can take a physical toll. Trying to tune into your movements is a great way to help strengthen your body and avoid any chronic pain from starting or worsening. Lozoff calls this type of awareness “Livelates”(pronounced live-a lot-ease, a term Lozoff has trademarked), and it is one of the main strategies she says she uses to help her “stay strong, functional, and able to have daily wrestling matches with two young boys.” Even when you’re not around your kids, you should try to maintain that awareness. Sometimes it makes sense to sweat the small stuff. “Alignment and posture are also things you can be aware of as a way to prevent overuse or injury,” Lozoff says. “Are you twisting your body to look at your computer screen at work? Do you carry all of your bags on the same shoulder all the time? Details like this may seem minor or unimportant in the

moment, but can contribute to general aches and pains, and even overuse injuries, over time.” Consider how you’re framing it. It may be helpful to think about working out in a way that speaks to you and your own personal needs and wishes. Maybe it’s a means to incorporate some time to yourself, a way to stay sane when everyone is wanting a piece of you, or simply something that is going to make you a calmer, better parent. “While the physicality of our lives in NYC can be taxing,” Lozoff says, “seeing your fourth-floor walkup as a daily opportunity to keep your legs and gluteals strong can help it feel less like torture and more like a few minutes of exercise that really will add up and make you stronger.”

Make a Habit of It

Take some time to plan before you start. Lozoff breaks down how to carve out time from our busy daily routines. The first step, she says, is to find 5-10 minutes of movement. “This can be from a class you take, a video you like, or one of many online fitness options,” she says. “If you can memorize the movement over time, this will make it easier to fit in to your daily life. Another thing Lozoff recommends is picking a time of day when you can squeeze in those few minutes. That could be first thing in the morning, after your child goes down for his nap, on your lunch hour, or after your kids go to sleep at night. “This five to ten minutes can be a manageable amount of time to start with and can still go a long way toward feeling good,” she says. “Once you get into the habit of fitting regular movement into your day, you can slowly start making your routine longer,” she adds. When I first began exercising after childbirth, I started by simply lying down on my yoga mat and trying to tune into my abdominal core muscles. Once I felt ready to move on, I worked up from there to include more strenuous exercises. Lozoff also advises trying to make the first 5 minutes of your session consist of the same exercises, so that over time you know the movements so well that you can lie down anywhere, anytime, and devote a few minutes to work out. Do it before you can talk yourself out of it. For many people this is in the morning. For me, it’s as soon as I put my youngest down for his afternoon nap. It helps if I’m already wearing workout clothes, thereby eliminating one more step that might get me off track. For Lozoff, “As soon as I put my son down to sleep, and before I do anything else like clean up toys or do the dishes, I get out my yoga mat and do my 25-minute routine. Though it has changed over the years, I still have that routine and at the end of each busy day, it still feels good to know I had that time for myself in my day. And there are still some days when I can only do five minutes! But it counts.” Have fun with it. I didn’t start being even remotely consistent about my fitness until I figured out that doing the loop in Prospect Park in Brooklyn is where my bliss lies. I go even more frequently if I’m meeting a friend who is expecting me to be there at a certain time. We try to finish the full 5-kilometer loop; sometimes we run half of it and sometimes we walk the whole thing quickly—it just depends on how we’re feeling that day. Tracking the subtleties of the seasonal changes allows me to become much more in tune with nature and makes me feel like I’m getting a respite from urban living. Plus, being outside on a regular basis clears my head and makes me feel much more calm and centered. Involving your family is also a great way to get motivated. (Check out the Movers and Shakers section of this month’s events continued on next page ››

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calendar on page 35 for ways to get out and moving with the whole family.) Or if you’re exercising at home try Lozoff’s tip: “Save your favorite TV show to watch while you exercise, so the whole thing feels like a treat.”

Post-Partum Moms

Take it slow, but try to check in with your body as often as possible. After my daughter’s extremely difficult delivery, I was overwhelmed by how disconnected I felt from my body. There were days I wondered if I would ever have the energy and motivation to even start thinking about getting back into shape. But as I learned, feeling fit doesn’t have to involve making a huge commitment. “Finding time to do something every day, even for just a few minutes, is really essential, especially when you’re postpartum,” Lozoff says. “Not only is it physically beneficial to move, stretch, and strengthen your body, but knowing you have a small part of the day that’s just for you can be both energizing and calming.” Lozoff ’s first son was born via emergency cesarean section. “Suddenly my life and my body were completely new to me,” she says. With help from her own fitness instructor—who even held her new baby during the workout—she was able to develop a 25-minute routine. “Scheduling and finances were such that I could only see my teacher a couple times, but once I had that routine, I had the tools to come back to my body and feel strong again.”

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FOOD & NUTRITION

Avocado Toast—Elevated

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Kick up this basic breakfast with some unexpected additions.

Avocado toast can be enjoyed in three simple steps: toast bread, top it with avocado (smashed or sliced), and eat. But Lara Ferroni shares 20 ideas to elevate the basic meal, from why-didn’t-I-think-of-that combos to unexpected and unusual flavor choices.

From left: Sourdough, smashed avocado, cucumber, chili flakes, fish sauce; sourdough, sliced avocado, strawberries, balsamic vinegar; sourdough, smashed avocado, nectarine slices, fresh mozzarella, fresh mint; sourdough, diced avocado, bacon jam, arugula

Clockwise from top: Brioche loaf, smashed avocado, banana, cinnamon, sugar; brioche loaf, sliced avocado, Nutella, pear slices; brioche loaf, smashed avocado, mandarin orange segments, coconut cream, fresh mint; brioche loaf, sliced avocado, scrambled egg, hot sauce

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Clockwise from top left: Baguette, sliced avocado, almond butter, honey, lemon juice; baguette, smashed avocado, radish slices, Herbs de Provence, flakey sea salt; baguette, sliced avocado, marmalade, flakey sea salt; baguette, smashed avocado, grilled romaine, boquerónes

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WestchesterParent 25

Courtesy Nicole Perrino

Courtesy Bicultural Mama Courtesy Betsy Vilca

Courtesy Jen Rabulan-Bertram

Suffolk County blogger Maria (who asked that her last name not be used) and her family at a birthday party. The kids are half Chinese and Maria hopes they embrace that side of their heritage.

Jen Rabulan-Bertram and her family live in Denville, NJ, and call themselves the “token mixed family” of their area.

Nicole Perrino and her family live in the Bronx, where she says the diversity makes them comfortable raising mixed-race kids.

Queens mom Betsy Vilca, who is Peruvian, says she and her husband, who is Irish, teach their kids about both cultures.

Growing Up Mixed

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There are more mixed-race families than ever, but parents still face challenges raising kids in two cultures. By Samantha Neudorf

here is no worse feeling than when people think you and your child are unrelated. At least, that’s how my mother felt. I am half German and half Filipina, and I remember many times when I would be out with my Filipina mother and people would come up to her and say, “What a cute child! Are you her nanny?” or “Is she adopted?” One person even went so far as to flat-out deny I was her daughter and insisted, “I just don’t see how that’s possible.” All because I did not look exactly like her. Incidents like these stuck with me and are among the major challenges parents face when raising a mixed-race child. I decided to speak with parents here in the New York metro region to hear their accounts of raising bicultural children today.

Looking Different

In my own experience, identifying as multiracial is complicated because you look “different” from others. It’s challenging because you do end up relating to one side more than another— yet you are not entirely of that race, so you are not always fully 26

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

accepted even within that group. On the other hand, it feels great to be able to celebrate more than one heritage and be able to better understand other cultures. According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2013, 9 million Americans identified as two or more racial categories when asked about their racial background, and a more recent Pew study put that number significantly higher. In Westchester, nearly 2½ percent of the population identified as “two or more races” in the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau, while statewide more than half a million New Yorkers did the same—and the number is surely growing.

A Cultural Melting Pot

Often revered as a cultural melting pot, New York City and its suburbs are home to people of countless ethnicities. It is therefore not surprising that interracial relationships are on the rise, and with them, the birth of multi-race children. Nicole Perrino is the founder of the blog Bronx Mamas and is Italian-Irish. Her boyfriend Luis is Dominican, and their

daughters are Briana, 10, and Gia, 4. They live in East Bronx and found that the area has a blend of both of their cultures. “It’s so diverse and you never know what a person is just by looking at them,” Perrino says. Betsy Vilca is a blogger and YouTuber at Thats Betsy V, and a mother of two children: Ziana, 4, and Gunner, 1. She is Peruvian and her boyfriend Bobby is Irish. They live in the Kew Gardens section of Queens, which is one of the most ethnically diverse places in the country. Vilca expresses concern about how her kids will be treated based on the current political climate. “I feel like it’s much more accepting to be a mixed-race family than it was years ago,” she says. “But at the same time, with Donald Trump in office we’re concerned our kids might be ostracized because they’re not white-white and they’re not Spanish.” Vilca is able to have her kids learn about both sides of their heritage in New York by going to St. Patrick’s Day activities as well as eating Peruvian dishes such as lomo saltado, a stir-fry of sirloin steak with onions, tomatoes, and French fries served over a bed of rice. “It’s very cultural here in New York and I feel like they’ll be able to identify more with different cultures when they get older,” Vilca says.

Preserving Tradition

One way to preserve tradition is to teach kids to be bilingual or to “speak their mother tongue.” Vilca’s daughter Ziana understands Spanish when she speaks to her, but sometimes refuses to respond because everyone around speaks English. Vilca grew up in Garden City Park on Long Island and felt the same way. “I grew up with a lot of Caucasians and my parents only spoke Spanish, so I couldn’t identify with those kids and was ostracized in that aspect,” Vilca says. She hopes her kids will grow up to speak Spanish fluently and understand it better than she does. Maria (who asked that her last name not be used) is the founder of the blog Bicultural Mama and is Chinese-American. She and her husband Matthew, who is Caucasian, live in Suffolk County and have two daughters: Ailin, 8, and Aimei, 2. Ailin is enrolled in Chinese school and Aimei will follow in her footsteps once she is old enough to attend. Maria wants her daughters to go to Chinese school because there are not many Asians in her area and her family lives out of state, so her kids do not have a chance to hear relatives speak Chinese very often. She attended Chinese school growing up and wants her kids to be exposed to the culture, language, and traditions. “Some of the challenges of raising mixed-race children are ensuring that the minority heritage traditions are passed down and that my kids are embracing it and proud that there’s this part of them,” Maria says. “It’s very easy for them to lose the minority heritage because they’re not immersed in it.” Maria hopes that her daughters will continue to celebrate both cultures. She says Ailin identifies more with her Chinese side, but says that could change if she decides she wants to choose to embrace her Caucasian side more. “My husband’s family is nearby and we see them several times a month,” Maria says. “That’s why I feel like I need to make sure that the other side is being reinforced as well.”

Uncomfortable Situations

Maria talked to Ailin about racism and what to do if she is bullied. She grew up in Michigan and said she was teased, so she wants to make sure her kids know what to do if that ever

happens. “I want them to be proud at a young age and try to protect them as much as possible.” There was an instance where Maria was with Ailin at the post office when she was a baby and an older woman approached them and said, “Oh my gosh, is that an ‘Amerasian’ baby?” The term “Amerasian” is used to define a person born in Asia to a U.S. military father and an Asian mother. It was first used during the wars in Korea and then Vietnam and could be applicable to U.S. citizens of any ethnicity, so this was a misinformed comment that made Maria feel taken aback. “I can tell that she didn’t mean it in an offensive way because she was smiling and said she knew other ‘Amerasian’ babies,” Maria says. “It was just kind of strange to be called out that way.”

Teaching Kids to Understand Others

Jen Rabulan-Bertram is the founder of the blog Next Kid Thing. She is Filipina-American and her husband Jeff is German, English, and Irish. Jen, Jeff, and their kids Jack, 9, and Josh, 5, live in Denville, NJ, and say they are the “token mixed family” of their area. Rabulan-Bertram grew up in Virginia, where she says people made racial jokes toward her and repeated racial stereotypes, so she made sure her kids learned how to embrace others. The common refrain in their household is that everyone is different, whether it’s how they look or if they are differently abled. Josh is in special education, so it is especially ingrained in her kids that they accept anyone regardless of race or physical differences. “You don’t know the other person’s story, so you just say that everyone is different,” Rabulan-Bertram says. Rabulan-Bertram says Jack has been learning about his culture in school and hopes he grows up to embrace both sides. “Having a mom that looks one way and a dad that looks another is definitely something he should be proud of,” Rabulan-Bertram says. “Whether it’s having awesome food and learning about how his grandparents grew up in a really cool island, I think it’s important for him to know that.” As for me, being bicultural has allowed me to understand the world and empathize with others through a lens not many people can use. I understand and accept that people will continue to give me weird looks because they cannot figure out what my ethnicity is. I understand that I will be too Asian in some people’s eyes and too white to others. I understand the struggle to be accepted in society because at the end of the day, I’m still a minority. And I would never change any of it because I am proud of who I am.

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WestchesterParent 27

OUTINGS: Gulliver’s Gate

nymetroparents.com/outings

See the World in Miniature

You can travel the world—and occasionally through time—without leaving Times Square. ›› By Katelin Walling

Katelin Walling

Courtesy Gulliver’s Gate

Katelin Walling

1 The Russian section of Gulliver’s Gate is entirely handcrafted (made of balsam wood and hand painted), while other countries utilized 3-D printing. 2 Iconic

buildings in New York City have been miniaturized, including the commuter hub of Grand Central. Various trains, vehicles, and even planes will move throughout the exhibit. Here the MetroCard shows just how tiny everything is at Gulliver’s Gate. 3 Visitors will see scenes from throughout history, including Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. 4 Until the masters of science and technology are able to make time travel happen, Beatles fans young and old will have to make do with seeing this iconic scene in miniature.

ulliver’s Gate (a nod to Gulliver’s Travels) is a re-creation of various major cities across the world in Lilliputian proportions—miniature models, built to scale. The extremely family-friendly venue— changing tables are in all bathrooms, a private nursing station is available for breast-feeding moms, and strollers are welcome—is set to become one of the most interactive miniature exhibits in America.

A Whimsical, Interactive Experience

Upon arrival, each visitor will exchange their ticket for a skeleton key (beginning May 9), which “unlocks” the interactive elements throughout the re-creation—until then, buttons control the elements. Examples include Nessie poking her head out of Loch Ness in Scotland and a bullring spinning to reveal a bullfight in which the bull, in an unusual turn of events, antagonizes the matador in Spain. (Keep an eye out for other humorous scenes like these as subtle and overt humor was integrated throughout—perfect for entertaining children and parents.) Bonus: You get to take the key home as a keepsake.

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

More Than Just Buildings

You’ll see renderings of famous buildings and monuments from all over the world—from the Statue of Liberty to the Eiffel Tower in France, among many others. Just don’t expect to see the full Empire State Building and One World Trade—they are so tall that even built to scale they don’t completely fit in the space. You’ll also see some scenes from history: the Beatles walking across Abbey Road, a Lenape village in New York, and Colossus of Rhodes standing over a harbor in Greece.

A Culturally Inclusive Exhibit

Eight countries took part in building Gulliver’s Gate, and the stylistic differences in the models show how the different countries interpret their regions and what they see as culturally significant. “One of the most important things for us is inclusion,” said Jason Hackett, head of marketing. “We want you to be able to see yourself in the model, no matter where you’re from.” And you actually can. Step into a 3-D scanner (for an extra fee) and be rendered as a Lilliputian-sized model citizen to become part of the exhibit.

Learn How It Works

Visitors can learn behind-the-scenes details about the miniature world. The wood and high-tech model shops are open for visitors to talk to the builders and learn how the mini cities were created, and a hallway is filled with projections of the entire building process. The command center that monitors the circuitry and interactive components of the miniatures is also open for visitors to see, and the engineers are encouraged to explain how things work in ways all visitors can understand.

Want to Go?

Address: 216 W. 44th St., Times Square, Manhattan Directions: Approximately a 40-minute train ride via Metro-North from White Plains to Grand Central, then take the Shuttle or 7 to Times Square Hours: Daily, 9am-10pm; last entry will be at 8:30pm Admission: $36; $27 seniors ages 65 and older and children ages 12 and younger For more information: gulliversgate.com

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Westchester Community College OSSINING EXTENSION CENTER

SUMMER SCIENCE PROGRAMS INTRO TO HUMAN ANATOMY: For Ages 8-12, 9:30-11:30 am GO GREEN! For Ages 8-12, 9:30-11:30 am THE SCIENTIST AS DETECTIVE: For Ages 8-12, 12:00 noon-2:00 pm THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD: For Ages 9-12, 12:00 noon-2:00 pm THE WORLD OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE: For Ages 13-17, 12:00 noon-2:00 pm THE SCIENCE OF FORENSICS: WHAT’S BEHIND CSI?: For Ages 13-17, 9:30-11:30 am All classes meet M/T/W/TH and are $160 each. Session A: July 31- August 10 Session B: August 14-24 For those who select a day-long experience, a 30-minute supervised lunch is scheduled between morning and afternoon sessions (student-provided lunch).

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May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

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Turn the page for details on Mother’s Day Weekend Garden Party (No. 3 on our list).

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CALENDAR 32 Editor’s Hot Tickets 33 Must-Sees in NYC 34 We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!, Special Needs, Crafty Kids

WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar EDITOR: JAMIE MCGILLIAN calendared@davlermedia.com

35 The Great Outdoors, Movers & Shakers

36 Show Time!, Once Upon a Time 37 Animal Lovers, Smarty Pants

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!

Raptors of Westchester

Mother’s Day Weekend Garden Party

WHEN: Sunday, May 7, 1-2pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Meet the Greenburgh Nature Center’s birds of prey with a naturalist and discover what makes these magnificent creatures the hunters of the sky. This event includes a visit to the outdoor bird aviary to feed the majestic Bald Eagles, Red Tailed Hawks, and Great Horned Owl. WHY WE LOVE IT: A must for bird lovers! WANT TO GO? $8. 914-725-6599. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

WHEN: May 13-14, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: NY Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: The most spectacular spring landscape New York City has to offer is the setting for live music, games, picnicking, and more. Make a reservation for a delicious brunch with mom and enjoy all of the special activities. WHY WE LOVE IT: What a memorable event for Mom! WANT TO GO? $25; $12 children. 718-817-8700. nybg.org.

Mothers and Others Tea Musicale

Mommy’s Lil Sprouts

WHEN: Saturday, May 13, 1pm WHERE: Caramoor, 149 Girdle Ridge Road, Katonah AGES: All WHAT: Take a tour of the extraordinary Rosen House, a Mediterranean-style villa. After the tour, a mini concert will take place in the Music Room right before the afternoon tea. WHY WE LOVE IT: Mom (or Grandma) will love this special treat for Mother’s Day. WANT TO GO? $60; $43 children. 914-232-5035. caramoor.org. 32

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, May 14, 1pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Visit the Greenburgh Nature Center with your little ones to celebrate all things spring. Gather in the Manor House to read a short story and meet some furry friends, then plant a variety of seeds to take home and nurture. WHY WE LOVE IT: Help your little one gain a love of nature! WANT TO GO? $8. 914-722-1300. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Get weekend activities delivered to you!

Mother’s Day Brunch

WHEN: Sunday, May 14, 11:30am and 1:30pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the mothers in your life at a festive Mother’s Day Brunch in historic Wave Hill House. WHY WE LOVE IT: Enjoy a delicious meal and a peaceful stroll with the whole family! WANT TO GO? $48; $33 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

CityBound Must-Sees in

N Y C Courtesy Enchantment Theatre Company

nymetroparents.com/register ››

Throw Mama to the Wolves!

WHEN: Sunday, May 14, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run, South Salem AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Mom and Mother Nature at the Wolf Conservation Center. Learn about the mythology, biology, and ecology of wolf families and discover why spring is a special time for packs in North America. WHY WE LOVE IT: If Mom is a wolf lover, this is a great family event. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 children. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

WHEN: Saturday, May 20, 12-5pm WHERE: Philipsburg Manor, 381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Step into the rhythms and get swept up in this springtime soiree featuring continuous performances of African drumming and dancing. WHY WE LOVE IT: This is an incredible drumming experience that your child will remember. WANT TO GO? $14; $12 seniors; $8 children ages 3-17. 914-3666900. hudsonvalley.org.

Commemoration of Memorial Day FREE

WHEN: Monday, May 29, 11am-4pm WHERE: St. Paul’s Church N.H.S., 897 S. Columbus Ave., Mount Vernon AGES: All WHAT: Recall the lives and stories of soldiers interred in the historic cemetery, with an emphasis on World War I veterans. The event also features living history military re-enactors, a performance, and sing-along of songs that soldiers would have sung and heard from the Revolutionary War through the 20th century. WHY WE LOVE IT: An educational and enjoyable day! WANT TO GO? 914-667-4116. nps.gov/sapa.

‘Mamma Mia!’

A Tale of Two Bunnies

Beatrix Potter’s famous hero, Peter Rabbit, has entertained children for more than 100 years. Peter Rabbit Tales tells the story of Peter and his friend Benjamin Bunny. They set off on an adventure that involves a rescue of the Flopsy Bunnies and of course, an escape from Mr. McGregor’s garden. Enchantment Theatre Company brings the beloved stories and characters to life using masks, puppets, and beautiful scenery reminiscent of Potter’s drawings. There will also be a preshow workshop in the lobby during which children can make their own Peter Rabbit puppets. May 6; 11am and 2pm. Age: 3-9, adult. $25-$29. Skirball Center for the Performing Arts at NYU, 566 LaGuardia Place, Greenwich Village. 212-998-4941. nyuskirball.org. Courtesy U.S. Navy

Djembes and Dance

Can Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny save the day?

WHEN: Through June 25: Wednesday-Sunday, 8pm WHERE: Westchester Broadway Theater, 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford AGES: 9 and older WHAT: A 20-year-old woman named Sophie wants to have a traditional wedding and hopes her father will walk her down the aisle, but there’s one problem: she has no idea who her father is! With help from her mother’s journal, she narrows the possibilities down to three men. Based on the catchy songs of the Swedish pop group ABBA. WHY WE LOVE IT: A fabulous show and soundtrack for tweens and young adults! WANT TO GO? $50 show only. 914-592-2222. broadwaytheatre.com. ››

U.S. Navy ships sail into New York Harbor as part of the Parade of Ships.

Ships Ahoy

Fleet Week 2017, the weeklong celebration of maritime services, has been sailing into NYC nearly every year since 1984. It offers lots of fun activities for families and is a great opportunity to meet sailors, Marines, and Coast Guard members, as well as get up close to reallife Navy ships. The event kicks off with the Parade of Ships, an aweinspiring flotilla of U.S. Navy, including U.S. Marine Corps personnel, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard, and Royal Canadian ships into the New York Harbor. Other highlights include the chance to visit actual working war ships (best suited to older children); a week of activities at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum; military band concerts; and aviation displays. May 24-30, times vary, see website for full activity schedule. Age: All. Various locations in New York City. Most events are free. fleetweeknewyork.com. WestchesterParent 33

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. Cinco de Mayo Party FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, May 2, 5pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Watch a traditional Mexican Dance and try some moves yourself. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Cinco de Mayo Cooking Class FREE

WHEN: May 3-5, Wednesday-Friday, 6-7:30pm WHERE: Riverfront Library, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Learn how to cook the food of Mexico with Chef Amalia Greco. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/riverfront.

Families with Young Children FREE

WHEN: Friday, May 12, 5:30pm WHERE: Temple Israel of Northern Westchester, 31 Glengary Road, Croton-on-Hudson AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Families with children are encouraged to participate in Tot Shabbat. WANT TO GO? 914-271-4705. tinw.org.

Teacher in the Library FREE

WHEN: May 1-30, Monday-Tuesday and Thursday, 4-6pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Homework help is here! Stop in and see the teacher. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Ice Cream Party FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, May 31, 5pm WHERE: Chabad of the Rivertowns, 303 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry AGES: All WHAT: Hear a reading of the Ten Commandments at this ice cream party. WANT TO GO? 914-693-6100. chabadrt.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS

BluePath Service Dogs Walkathon FREE

WHEN: Saturday, May 20, 10am-2pm WHERE: Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, Lot 4, 2957 Crompond Road, Yorktown Heights AGES: All WHAT: BluePath’s first annual walkathon will raise funds for the nonprofit to benefit autism service dogs. WANT TO GO? 845-377-0477. bluepathservicedogs.org.

Baseball Season FREE

WHEN: Through May 28: Saturday-Sunday, 11am WHERE: The Miracle League of Westchester, The Miracle Field, Ridge Road Park, Hartsdale AGES: All WHAT: Children and adults with disabilities can play baseball. WANT TO GO? 914-522-1547. mlwny.org. 34

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

CRAFTY KIDS Be Kind to Animals Craft FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, May 2, 4pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Make a special animal craft and take a book home. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Family Art Project: Kites

WHEN: May 6-7, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Join visiting artist Andrea Lomanto to design a paper kite to display your environmental dream for caring for the earth. WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Mother’s Day Cards FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, May 9, 4pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Make a sparkly Mother’s Day card. All materials supplied. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Fabric Frames and Lavender Sachets for Mom

WHEN: May 13-14, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Mom by creating a wrapped-fabric frame and adorn it with dried flowers and ribbons. Make a small, fragrant sachet gift tied with ribbons and bows and filled with dried lavender. WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Basics of Composition

WHEN: Saturday, May 13, 2-4pm WHERE: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburtone Ave., Yonkers

AGES: All WHAT: Learn the basics of drawing still life, figures, and fashion. WANT TO GO? $6; $3 children. 914-963-4500. hrm.org.

Clay Art Center Spring Youth Classes 2017

WHEN: Through May 18: Sundays, 10am-6pm WHERE: Clay Art Center, 40 Beech St., Port Chester AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Work with clay to develop creative problem-solving skills and building confidence while making new friends and having fun. WANT TO GO? See website for prices. 914-937-2047. clayartcenter.org.

Palisades in Plaster

WHEN: May 27-28, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Use plaster to create your own sculptural rock formation. WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Second Saturdays

WHEN: May 13-Dec. 9, the second Saturday of the month, 9:3011:30am WHERE: Boscobel House, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Explore the past through hands-on avtivities. Take a flashlight tour of the Boscobel mansion and plant your own mini herb garden. WANT TO GO? $45 for a family of four; $8 per additional person. 845265-3638. boscobel.org.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

MOVERS & SHAKERS Masala Bhangra Dance Class FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, May 2, 6-7pm WHERE: Riverfront Library, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: 13 and older WHAT: A blend of high-energy Bhangra dance steps with Bollywood moves. This class will be led by Deborah Kolb, a certified Bhangra dance instructor. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/riverfront.

Zumba FREE

WHEN: Thursday, May 4, 6-7pm WHERE: Riverfront Library, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Ditch the workout and join the party! Zumba combines Latin and international music with a fun and effective workout system. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/riverfront.

Fiesta! with Flor FREE

WHEN: Saturday, May 6, 11-11:30am WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-5 WHAT: A bilingual music program that teaches Spanish through music, movement, puppetry, and theater-based games. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Go The Distance Walk 2017 FREE

First Friday Music and Trolley

WHEN: Friday, May 5, 5:30-8:30pm WHERE: Bartow-Pell Mansion, 895 Shore Road, Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy live music, explore the museum, and stroll the garden. The trolley makes an hourly loop starting at 5:25pm from the #6 Pelham Bay Park subway station to BPMM to City Island. Registration requested. WANT TO GO? $12; $10 children. 718-549-3200. bartowpellmansionmuseum.org.

WHEN: Sunday, May 7, 9:30am WHERE: Westchester Medical Center, 100 Woods Road, Valhalla AGES: All WHAT: A 1-mile, non-competitive walk to raise money for Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. Individuals will walk to support the most advanced care available to more than 20,000 critically ill infants and children each year in Westchester, Hudson Valley, and Southwest Connecticut. WANT TO GO? 914-493-5368. events.westchestermedicalcenter.com/gtd17.

Getting Grounded FREE

Block Party FREE

WHEN: Through Sept. 29: Wednesday-Sunday, 1-1:45pm WHERE: Stone Barns, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Tour the field and engage in a conversation about farming. Learn why soil is key and what being a food citizen is all about. WANT TO GO? 914-366-6200. stonebarnscenter.org.

WHEN: Saturday, May 20, 11am WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: Come enjoy an hour of free play with the library’s huge collection of blocks. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Insider’s Tour

Family Yoga FREE

WHEN: Through Oct. 7: Saturday-Sunday, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Stone Barns, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills AGES: 13 and older WHAT: As you stroll through the pastures, talk about farm innovation and how to build a healthy and sustainable food system. WANT TO GO? $20. 914-366-6200. story.stonebarnscenter.org.

Family Farm Tour

WHEN: Through Nov. 17: Saturday-Sunday, 11:15am-12pm WHERE: Stone Barns, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills AGES: All WHAT: Walk around the farm to have a look at the animals and gardens. WANT TO GO? $10. 914-366-6200. story.stonebarnscenter.org.

WHEN: Thursday, May 25, 5:30-6pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: All WHAT: The whole family can join in to find some inner calm. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Musical Tots FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, May 31, 11:15am WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Join Lori Cohen for an interactive program of music and movement. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com. ›› WestchesterParent 35

‘Urinetown the Musical’

WHEN: May 28-June 4, Sundays, 2pm and 7pm WHERE: The Play Group Theatre, 1 N. Broadway, White Plains AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Urinetown is an outrageous, laugh-out-loud musical about a lovestruck young man who becomes the leader of a revolution. WANT TO GO? $18; $15 for children younger than 12. 914-946-4433. playgroup.org.

ONCE UPON A TIME Children’s Book Week Craft FREE

SHOW TIME! Petite Concerts FREE

WHEN: Friday, May 5, 11am WHERE: Larchmont Public Library, 121 Larchmont Ave., Larchmont AGES: 3-5 WHAT: A 30-minute live concert, specially programmed for children. Come join this musical experience and try out instruments after the concert. WANT TO GO? 914-834-2281. petiteconcerts.com.

The Manhattan Transfer

WHEN: Friday, May 12, 8pm WHERE: Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill AGES: 13 and older WHAT: Celebrating its 45th anniversary, this quartet is building upon the extraordinary legacy created by founder Tim Hauser, who organized the four-part harmony group in 1972 in New York City. WANT TO GO? $55 and up. 9147390039. paramounthudsonvalley.com.

‘Children of Eden’

WHEN: May 7-14, Sundays, 2pm and 7pm WHERE: The Play Group Theatre, 1 N. Broadway, White Plains AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A heartfelt and often humorous look at the age-old conflict between parents and children that’s great for every generation. WANT TO GO? $18; $15 for children younger than 12. 914-946-4433. playgroup.org.

‘Monkey Kingdom’

WHEN: Monday, May 1, 4pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Celebrate Children’s Book Week by making your own tiny book. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

Mother Goose FREE

WHEN: Thursday, May 4, 10-10:35am WHERE: Grinton I. Will Branch, 1500 Central Park Ave., Yonkers AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Songs, nursery rhymes, and more. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/grinton.

Bilingual Storytime FREE

WHEN: Monday, May 8, 11am WHERE: Riverfront Library, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Fun stories, songs, and rhymes in English and Spanish. Enjoy interactive stories, action songs, and crafts. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/riverfront.

America Reads FREE

WHEN: Thursday, May 11, 3-6pm WHERE: Yonkers Riverfront Library, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Students from Sarah Lawrence College will read with children. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/riverfront.

Toddler Time FREE

WHEN: Thursday, May 11, 11-11:30am WHERE: Riverfront Library, 1 Larkin Center, Yonkers AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Stories, nursery rhymes, fingerplays, and songs for children accompanied by a caregiver. WANT TO GO? 914-337-1500. ypl.org/riverfront.

WHEN: Saturday, May 20, 12pm WHERE: Jacob Burns Film Center, 364 Manville Road, Pleasantville AGES: 5-12 WHAT: A documentary about a band of monkeys who play, eat, and groom each other. But things get more complicated for one female when she becomes a mother, protecting her young from one challenge after another. WANT TO GO? $13; $7.50 for children 13 and younger. 914-773-7663. burnsfilmcenter.org.

Junior Critics Book Club FREE

The Jason Bishop Show

Interactive Story Time FREE

WHEN: Sunday, May 21, 2pm WHERE: Tarrytown Music Hall, 130 Main St., Tarrytown AGES: All WHAT: Jason performs original state-of-the-art magic, featuring illusions, sleight-of-hand, and “close-up” magic that is projected onto plasma screens. WANT TO GO? $35; $25 children. 877-840-0457. tarrytownmusichall.org. 36

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Monday, May 22, 4:30pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Join an ongoing book group for fifth-seventh graders with games, discussion, and yummy snacks. Books are available at the library and sign-up required. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com. WHEN: Through Aug. 9: Wednesdays, 11am WHERE: North Castle Public Library, 19 Whippoorwill Road E., Armonk AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Come listen to stories, sing songs, and play games with an interactive felt board every other week. WANT TO GO? 914-273-3887. northcastlelibrary.org.

Meet the Farmers, Greet the Season

WHEN: Through Nov. 19: Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: Stone Barns, 630 Bedford Road, Pocantico Hills AGES: All WHAT: Participate in all-day season, hands-on activities, and drop-in tours. WANT TO GO? $20; $10 children. 914-366-6200. story. stonebarnscenter.org.

SMARTY PANTS ANIMAL LOVERS

Early Morning Bird Walk

WHEN: Saturday, May 6, 8:30am WHERE: Wave Hill, West 249th Street and Independence Avenue, Bronx AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Join naturalist Gabriel Willow on a walk to spot the amazing diversity of birds in the gardens and woodlands. Registration required. WANT TO GO? $8; $4 children. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

Pack Chat for Kids

WHEN: Saturday, May 6, 11am WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run, South Salem AGES: All WHAT: Kids will learn about the mythology surrounding wolves and their important role in the natural world. This is an exciting time for wolves; they’re out searching for prey as they prepare for the birth of this year’s pups! WANT TO GO? $14; $11 children younger than 12. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

Full Moon Wolf Walk

WHEN: Wednesday, May 10, 7pm WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run, South Salem AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the May full moon with the WCC’s moon-loving wolves. Flowers spring forth in abundance this month, so enjoy the sweet aroma while keeping cozy by the outdoor fire pit. WANT TO GO? $20. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

Atka’s Birthday Bash

WHEN: Saturday, May 20, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Wolf Conservation Center, 7 Buck Run, South Salem AGES: All WHAT: Join the WCC staff and volunteers as we celebrate the birthday of the WCC’s ambassador wolf Atka. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 children younger than 12. 914-763-2373. nywolf.org.

Open Wide

WHEN: Sunday, May 21, 1-2pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Join a naturalist to learn about snakes and lizards during a handson presentation that is sure to engage and enlighten all ages. WANT TO GO? $8. 914-725-6599. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Former Poet Laureate Jean Valentine Poetry Reading

WHEN: Sunday, May 7, 4:30-5:45pm WHERE: Hudson Valley Writers’ Center, 300 Riverside Drive, Sleepy Hollow AGES: 13 and older WHAT: The Hudson Valley Writers’ Center is honored to host Jean Valentine and Fred Marchant for a night of poetry. WANT TO GO? $10. 914-332-5953. writerscenter.org.

Arts in the Afternoon

WHEN: Wednesday, May 10, 1:30pm WHERE: Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburtone Ave., Yonkers AGES: All WHAT: Yonkers photographers took photos of their city and its people with the then-new Kodak cameras in the 1890s. See these vintage images with curator Laura Vookles. WANT TO GO? $6; $3 children. 914-963-4500. hrm.org.

Lego My Library FREE

WHEN: Tuesday, May 16, 4pm WHERE: The Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Join the Lego My Library club if you love to build with Legos. WANT TO GO? 914-737-0847. fieldkids.wordpress.com.

CHIHULY

WHEN: Through Oct. 29: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-6pm WHERE: The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: CHIHULY will spotlight world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly’s bold innovation and experimentation in a variety of media throughout his celebrated career. WANT TO GO? Weekdays: $20; $8 children ages 2-12; weekends: $25; $10 children ages 2-12. 718-817-8700. nybg.org.

What in the World is a Herbarium?

WHEN: Through Oct. 31: Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm WHERE: The New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx AGES: All WHAT: This exhibit celebrates the Steere Herbarium as the centerpiece of the garden’s botanical research program, and a priceless resource for scholars. WANT TO GO? Weekdays: $20; $8 children ages 2-12; weekends: $25; $10 children ages 2-12. 718-817-8700. nybg.org.

For Shear Pleasure

WHEN: Sunday, May 28, 1-2pm WHERE: Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale AGES: All WHAT: Bring the whole family to the barnyard to celebrate spring. You’ll get to experience how wool becomes a sweater through touching the wool and having a go at carding, hand spinning, and a “wooly” craft. WANT TO GO? $8. 914-725-6599. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Coming up next month: JUNE 3: 23rd Annual Snapping Turtle Walk at Boscobel House and Gardens, Garrison JUNE 10-11: Global Gardens Spring Harvest Celebration at New York Botanical Garden, Bronx Park JUNE 24: Pollinator’s Weekend at Wave Hill, Riverdale, Bronx

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SpecialParent

Putting a Stop to a Slur

››

Parents of kids with special needs join other advocates to push for an end to the ‘R-word.’ By Sabrina Sooknanan

“ hate that word! I don’t want you to ever use that word again!” That’s what Kari Wagner-Peck yelled at a man who used the “R-word” in her son’s presence. Wagner-Peck, a Portland, MEbased blogger whose son has Down syndrome, says she felt as if the man understood her when she told him not to use language like that again. Not everyone is so understanding, however. Calling someone a “retard”—whether in supposed jest or as an insult—is common, with many people probably unaware how hurtful it is to people with intellectual disabilities. That’s why activists, many of them parents, are taking a stand against the R-word with the Spread the Word to End the Word campaign. Hurtful language is a constant battle for many people with intellectual disabilities, who are often stigmatized. Advocacy against the R-word has been ongoing for decades, says Soeren Palumbo, cofounder of the campaign, whose sister has an intellectual disability. “Spread the Word to End the Word was created as a grassroots,

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

youth-led campaign in 2009 as part of the Special Olympics World Winter Games being held in Boise, Idaho,” he explains.

From Clinic to Slang

The word “retard(ed)” comes from the Latin word retardare, which means to delay or make slow. The R-word was originally introduced as “mental retardation” to clinically define people with intellectual impairment. Initially, individuals were defined as having mental retardation if they received an IQ score of 70 or below. IQ looks at the difference between a person’s chronological age and his developmental age. “If you would score below a 70, the thought would be that you might have issues with verbal, performance, and adaptability to daily life,” says Nava Silton, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology at Marymount Manhattan College, located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Eventually, the R-word became part of everyday slang and

people began to use it in jokes and pop culture, and it came to be seen as a pejorative word. The gap between medical terminology and offensive language grew and the purpose of the word became blurred.

What’s So Bad About It Anyway?

Dr. Silton believes a big problem with the R-word is it dehumanizes the person with the intellectual disability. “I’m very much a proponent of people-first language, so [that means] saying you are an individual with autism or an individual with a physical disability,” Dr. Silton says. She adds: “You are a person first with all those things that are uniquely human and unique to you, and then you also happen to have a disability. When you use the R-word you are defining the person by that term, and that is so reductive to do that to somebody.” The language we use, advocates say, represents our values and can lead to certain behaviors, positive or negative. Using the R-word is a form of excluding and isolating people, but on the other hand, Palumbo says, “each decision to not use the R-word re-affirms the attitude that people with [intellectual disabilities] are valuable enough to not denigrate, valuable enough to include in shared human dignity.” For parents of and advocates for people with intellectual disabilities, using the R-word singles out certain people for different treatment—and is just plain hurtful. “[It has] the same effect and intent of any slur, whether racial, anti-Semitic, antiLGBT, anti-Muslim, etc.,” Wagner-Peck says. “It diminishes the person’s humanity. It is a hateful word whether the user acknowledges that or not.”

R-Word Offenders

Wagner-Peck works to call out those who use the word, unknowingly or not. This led her to publicly confront Chuck Klosterman, the best-selling author and former New York Times ethics columnist, about several occasions in which he used the R-word in print. In her open letter to Klosterman, she pointed out several instances when Klosterman had used the R-word and characterized the author as an “unrepentant hater of people with cognitive disabilities.” She ended the letter with a question: “What are the ethics of using the R-word?” Wagner-Peck says she didn’t expect Klosterman to respond to her letter, but he did—apologizing for his choice of words and even donating $25,000 for her to give to any charity. In his response, Klosterman wrote, “I realize the books that contain those sentiments were published over 10 years ago, but that is no excuse; I was an adult when I wrote them and I knew what I was doing.” Wagner-Peck says she reacted in yells and tears to his apology—and with shock to the donation. Ellen Seidman, a New York City blogger and mom of a son with disabilities, created a public message on her blog LoveThatMax.com to call out people who used the R-word and shed some light on the effects of it. Among her efforts is a YouTube video called “Would You Call My Child A Retard?” showcasing photos of her son Max and flashing phrases that detail offensive and belittling uses of the R-word. She begins the video by saying, “To me, he’s not a kid with disabilities. He’s just an awesome kid. But some people give him a bad name.” Seidman says most people would never say the R-word to a child’s face; however, she believes if you wouldn’t do that, then you shouldn’t use it in any place or situation. She writes in her blog post, “Ultimately, this isn’t just about a word—it’s about

respect. It’s about getting people to consider kids and adults with cognitive impairment equal members of society. It’s not about censorship, either; it’s about starting a conversation on how people can better treat Max and others like him.” In another post, Seidman tells a story of Joseph, a 9-yearold boy with autism spectrum disorder, and the amazing thing he did at a Target in Medford. While shopping with his family, Joseph noticed someone had arranged metal letters to spell out the word “Retards” on a shelf. He knew it was a bad word and spoke to his mother to confirm the meaning of the R-word. Joseph’s mom Tracy explained, “It’s a word people use toward people with disabilities or a word people use kind of ignorantly—instead of saying ‘stupid’ or ‘silly’ they choose to use that word and it’s really mean.” As a result, Joseph thought of his brother Max, who has autism, and felt that they needed to change the letters so nobody would see the bad word. Joseph searched the shelf for letters and rearranged them to spell his name “Joe” and the word “Dream.” He didn’t let the negative word affect him and he turned it into something positive, something Tracy says she really wanted Joseph to learn, according to Seidman’s blog post.

‘R-Word’ the Movie

Amanda Lukoff is a filmmaker whose older sister Gabrielle has Down syndrome. Inspired by Gabrielle, Lukoff is creating a film called The R-Word about “how the power of words, and the love between siblings, can inspire a movement.” In an interview, Lukoff recalled a time when she was little and a friend came over to her house to play. When the girl saw Gabrielle she asked to leave, and Lukoff ’s dad ended up driving the girl home. This was the first time Lukoff was exposed to other people’s negative reactions to her sister. She remembers that she, along with her and Gabrielle’s other sisters, were confused by the girl’s reaction because Gabrielle was their sister—and no different from other children in their eyes. “Growing up with Gabrielle made me and my [other] sisters more sensitive to the R-word—we advocated for Gabrielle by standing up to our peers about their use of the R-word,” Lukoff says. As a part of the film, Lukoff and her team created an animated short illustrating her experiences with the R-word and introducing her journey to find “how, when, and why the R-word became a part of pop culture, to discover if the R-word transcends American society, to uncover the lasting effects the R-word has on people with intellectual disabilities, and their friends and families, and ultimately, to try to empower people and communities and encourage everyone to think before they speak.” The film is set to be completed and screened this summer. No doubt, some people will inevitably come away from any discussion of the R-word unconvinced that it is a big deal. For them, Jonathan Franklin Stephens, a self-advocate with Down syndrome, has a message, which he conveyed in a Huffington Post article he wrote: “To all of you who use it, let me say it one more time, THE R-WORD HURTS. You don’t have to aim the word directly at me to hurt me and millions of others like me who live with an intellectual disability. Every time a person uses the r-word, no matter who it is aimed at, it says to those who hear it that it is okay to use it. That’s how a slur becomes more and more common. That’s how people like me get to hear it over and over, even when you think we aren’t listening.” Sabrina Sooknanan is a NYMetroParents intern.

WestchesterParent 39

camp GUIDE 2017

Acres of Adventure Summer Camp at Ann and Andy 2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-3027 annandandychildcare.com

American Academy of Ballet Junior Summer School-Ages 9-12-Purchase College-State University of New York

Camp Young Judea Sprout Westchester

500 Yorktown Road (Route 129), Croton-On-Hudson 914-271-7563 cyjsproutlake.org/daycamp/ sprout-westchester cathy.deutchman@youngjudaea.org

Campus Kids Weekday Sleep-Away Camp

735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase 212-787-9500 american-academy-of-ballet.com aaboffice@gmail.com

973-845-9260 campuskids.com

Artistree Performing Arts

605 Millwood Road (Route 133), Mount Kisco 914-218-8175 computeradventures.com westchester@computeradventures.com

114 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck 914-835-2200 artistreearts.com heather@artistreearts.com

Bach To Rock Mamaroneck

130 Mamaroneck Ave., Mamaroneck 914-341-1457 mamaroneck.bachtorock.com mamaroneck@bachtorock.com

Badger Day Camp

119 Rockland Ave., Larchmont 914-834-1084 badgersportsclub.com info@badgerdaycamp.com

Breezemont Day Camp

Gordon A Josey, owner and director 62 Cox Ave., Armonk 914-367-1936 breezemontdaycamp.com matt@breezemont.com

Camp Clio

Held at Camp Claire, Lyme, CT and Middlesex County Camp, Moodus, CT 212-472-5207 campclio.org

Camp Huntington

Computer Adventures Bits, Bytes & Bots

Concordia Summer Camp

171 White Plains Road, Bronxville 914-395-4848 concordiadaycamp.org

Corbin’s Crusaders Day Camp for boys and girls ages 3½-14

471 North St., Greenwich, CT 914-939-2969, 212-875-8174 New York City - Main Office 351 E. 74th St., 5th Floor, Manhattan 212-875-8174 Westchester Office 5 Eagles Bluff, Rye Brook 212-875-8174 corbinscrusaders.com info@corbinscrusaders.com

Destination Science - The fun science day camp for curious kids ages 5-11!

Fashion Arts Studio of Westchester 168A Irving Ave., Port Chester 917-995-3191 fashionartsstudio.com

Golf Camp at the Mitchell Spearman Golf Academy 800-733-1653 spearmanjuniorgolf.com

Gymcats Gymnastics Summer Camp 1 Odell Plaza, Yonkers 914-965-7676 gymcats.net

Harvey Cavalier Summer Camp at the Harvey School 260 Jay St., Katonah Off-season: 845-677-0491 Summer: 914-232-0581 harveycavaliercamp.org cdelcampo@harveyschool.org

Scarsdale, Tarrytown, Bedford, Bronxville, White Plains 845-363-1598 dramadiscovery.com

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

The Little Gym

777 White Plains Road, Scarsdale 914-722-0072 tlgscarsdaleny.com 2121 Broadway, 2nd Floor (between 74th and 75th streets), Upper West Side, Manhattan 212-799-1225 tlgupperwestsideny.com 207 E. 94th St. (between Second and Third avenues), Upper East Side, Manhattan 212-787-1124 tlguppereastsideny.com 28 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, NJ 201-445-4444 tlgwaldwicknj.com

The Milestone School

70 W. Broad St., Mount Vernon 914-667-3478 themilestoneschool.com

Hudson Country Montessori School

MVP Basketball Camp

1 Elm St., Ardsley 914-479-5419 houseofsportsny.com

340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle 914-636-6202 hudsoncountry.org

Incarnation Camp

253 Bushy Hill Road, Ivoryton, CT 860-767-0848 incarnationcamp.org info@incarnationcamp.org

Jodi’s Gym

Drama Discovery

2005 Palmer Ave., Larchmont 914-525-0328 linguakids.com

Mosholu Day Camp

Dicker Reading Center of Westchester

Camp Ramaquois

LinguaKids®, L.L.C.

House of Sports Westchester

Iona College Day Camp

75 Brook St., Scarsdale 914-472-0600 dickerreading.com

11 Rye Ridge Plaza, Rye Brook 914-202-2200 eastpointedance.com info@eastpointedance.com

Multiple locations in Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk counties 888-909-2822 destinationscience.org info@destinationscience.org

56 Bruceville Road, High Falls 855-707-2267 camphuntington.com dfalk@camphuntington.com 30 Mountain Road, Pomona 845-354-1600 ramaquois.com

East Pointe Dance

715 North Ave., New Rochelle iona.edu/about/iona-in-community/ summer-camp.aspx mreddington@iona.edu 25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 244 E. 84th St., Manhattan 212-772-7633 jodisgym.com

Kids Cookery

914-937-2012 lovekidscookery.com kidscookery@yahoo.com

261 Arden Valley Road, Bear Mountain 845-323-5794 mosholudaycamp.com John Nemsick, director of basketball operations 29 Homeside Lane, White Plains 914-946-1231 mvpbasketballcamp.org nmuyskens@mvpbasketballcamp.org

Oasis Summer Day Camp in Dobbs Ferry at Mercy College Upper Camp-Mercy College 555 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry 646-519-5057 Lower Camp-Masters School 49 Clinton Ave., Dobbs Ferry oasischildren.com dobbs@oasischildren.com

Pine Brook Fitness

130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle 914-636-1019 pinebrookfitness.com

PlayLand Ice Casino

100 Playland Parkway, Rye 914-481-5941 playlandice.com

The Pre-School Dicker Reading Center of Westchester 75 Brook St., Scarsdale 914-472-0600 mommyicanread.com

Purchase College Aquatics

Christine Klint, director 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase 914-251-6546 purchasecollegeathletics. com/sports/2011/6/14/ gen_0614112216.aspx christine.klint@purchase.edu

Purchase College Summer Youth and Precollege Programs in the Arts Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase 914-251-6500 purchase.edu/youth youth.pre.college@purchase.edu

Purchase Sports Camp at Manhattanville College

2900 Purchase St., Purchase 914-315-7507 purchasesportscamp.com info@purchasesportscamp.com

SPORTIME Camps - Westchester SPORTIME Lake Isle 660 White Plains Road

Lake Isle Country Club Tennis Courts, Eastchester 914-777-5151 sportimecamps.com/lisle campslisle@sportimeny.com SPORTIME Harbor Island Tennis Courts in Harbor Island Park, Mamaroneck 914-777-5050 sportimecamps.com/hi campslisle@sportimeny.com sportimecamps.com

Squire Camps Inc. at Maria Regina High School, Hartsdale 914-328-3798 squirecamps.com squirecamps@gmail.com

Studio B Dance Center

277 White Plains Road (entrance on Prospect Avenue), Eastchester 914-793-2799 studiobdance.com

Summer Kids College at Westchester Community College Extension Centers

Multiple Locations in Westchester Ossining: 914-606-7400 Peekskill: 914-606-7300 White Plains: 914-606-7500

sunywcc.edu/locations/ extension-centers-course-schedules jeanne.maloney@sunywcc.edu

Sylvan Learning Centers: Westchester

Sylvan Learning Center of Bronxville 850 Bronx River Road, Bronxville 914-237-4396 sylvanlearning.com/bronxville bronxville.ny@sylvanlearning.com Sylvan Learning Center of White Plains 180 S. Broadway, White Plains 914-948-4116 sylvanlearning.com/whiteplains sylvan4202@msn.com

Teatown Lake Reservation

1600 Spring Valley Road, Ossining 914-762-2912 teatown.org

Thornton-Donovan School

100 Overlook Circle, New Rochelle 914-632-8836 td.edu

Wagon Road Camp

Vince Canziani, director 431 Quaker Road, Chappaqua 914-238-4761 childrensaidsociety.org/ wagon-road-camp vincec@childrensaidsociety.org

Westchester Skating Academy (WSA) Summer Camp

91 Fairview Park Drive (Route 9A), Elmsford 914-347-8232 skatewsa.com

Westchester Summer Day

856 Orienta Ave., Mamaroneck 914-698-8900 x153 westchesterday.org

YWCA of White Plains

515 North St., White Plains 914-949-6227 ywcawpcw.org

The Windward School Summer Program

40 W. Red Oak Lane, White Plains 914-949-6968 x1250 Christopher Q. Eberhard, director of the Summer Program ceberhard@thewindwardschool.org Christine Teahan, co-director cteahan@thewindwardschool.org thewindwardschool.org, select summer program from the menu

Young At Art Workshop Inc.

1088 Central Ave., Scarsdale 914-723-9229

CAMP MARKETPLACE

WestchesterParent 41

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Learning the right answers will get your child through school. Learning how to learn will get your child through life!

Open House at 9:30am Weekdays

Please call to join one of our tours.

914-636-6202

Hudson Country Montessori School

Inspiring curious, creative, and gifted minds. Toddlers through 8th grade. 340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle, NY 10804 • 914-636-6202 • www.hudsoncountry.org

Your Child Could Be on Our Cover Plus Win Prizes

EASY STEPS TO ENTER: 1. "Like" at www.facebook.com/nymetroparents 2. Select 1 favorite photo of your child (ages 2-16) 3. Upload the photo (jpg or png) to Facebook (Every entry will be automatically reviewed by Barbizon talent scouts)

4. Share with friends and vote daily!

PRIZES: • Family Vacation at Kalahari Resorts* ($1,500 Value)

2016 Finalist Angelina, Westchester

For a complete list of rules: http://nymetroparents.com/CoverContestRules *Blackout dates apply.

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

• Barbizon Scholarship & Photo Shoot ($2,400 Value) • Tickets to Sesame Place ($260 Value)

Promotion period 4/24/17 - 6/9/17

CAMP MARKETPLACE

SUMMER CAMP

BASKETBALL, BASEBALL & SOCCER CAMPS

2017

Weekly Sports Camps ALL SUMMER • Excellent Camper/Counselor Ratio • Professional Coaching Staff • Ages 3 and up • Groups based upon age and ability • Focus on Skill Development in a FUN and supportive environment • Beat the heat! All Camps take place in 100.000 sq. ft. climate controlled sports facility in Ardsley REGISTER BY MAY 15TH FOR A

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HOS - Westchester Parent Print Ad: 7.375 x 4.75 - June, 2016

FREE DANCE DAYS May 1st - 23rd

WestchesterParent 43

CAMP MARKETPLACE

n i l l i h C Camp

YLAND ICE all OR PLAICE Y SKATING ACADEMY &DPLAYLAND EM It’s WESTCHESTER A C A G N TI A the about WESTCHESTER SK

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Offered at 2 convenient locations

Weekly Camps JUNE and AUGUST Full Day & Half Day Options Available

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91 Fairview Park Dr., Elmsford, NY

chill@playlandice.com PlaylandIce.com 914.481.5941 ext.104 100 Playland Pkwy, Rye, NY

WSA/Playland - Westchester Parent Print Ad: MARCH 2017: 7.3 x 4.7”

2017 WESTCHEST

TO SCHEDULE A TOUR OF OUR 26 ACRES PLEASE CALL 914.698.8900

W tch ter Summer Da •

WSD OFFERS CHILDREN ENTERING NURSERY THROUGH 6TH GRADE A FUN, SAFE AND EXCITING ENVIRONMENT ALL INFUSED WITH JEWISH CULTURE & ZIONIST VALUES.

Our program includes boating and sailing on the Long Island Sound, in-ground heated pools, superior sports program, robotics, arts & crafts, rock climbing, zip lining, and exciting trips, plus much more!

• PHONE

EAST POINTE DANCE RYE RIDGE PLAZA, RYE BROOK, NY

Birthday Parties!

Summer Camp June 26th – August 25th

Fall Registration Happening Now!

Classes begin September 11th

EASTPOINTEDANCE.COM

info@eastpointedance.com • (914) 202-2200 44

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

FALL PROGRAM

Family Owned & Operated Since 1973 Experienced Teachers • Serving Children 2 months–14 years • Field Trips • Stimulating Environment • Flexible Schedules • Beautiful Campus Setting

www.annandandychildcare.com • 914-592-3027 2170 Saw Mill River Rd, Elmsford

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Summer College for Kids 2017

at Westchester Community College connect to the perfect summer experience for your child or teen! Center for the Digital Arts, Peekskill Extension PEEKSKILL EXTENSION CENTER YOUTH ARTS TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM SUMMER 2017

July 10th - 20th | July 24th - August 3rd 914-606-7300 peekskill@sunywcc.edu/peekskillyouth

Westchester Community College Center for the Arts White Plains PRE-COLLEGE ARTS PROGRAMS, PUBLIC SPEAKING & DEBATE CAMP

June 26th - August 4th | Ages 10-18 914-606-7500 sunywcc.edu/arts Arts@sunywcc.edu

Ossining Extension Center SCIENCE ACADEMY

July 31st - August 10th | August 14th - 24th | Ages 8-17 914-606-7400 ossining@sunywcc.edu

Dobbs Ferry at Mercy College & The Masters School

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

Summer 2017!

646-519-5057 • www.oasischildren.com @oasisdaycamps

Join us for an info session! May 13th - Upper Camp at Mercy College (555 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522) At 11:30 am in Victory Hall Rm 107 Lower Camp at The Masters School (49 Clinton Ave, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522) At 1:00 pm in the Middle School Building May 20th - Upper & Lower Camp at Mercy College At 11:30 am in Victory Hall Rm 107

WestchesterParent 45

CAMP MARKETPLACE

yrs. of Fun, Friends, & Fitness!

Great Perks For Members

For Kid 9 mos s to 12 yrs

Children's Swimming Progam Upcoming Sessions Session 1 (6/19-6/30) Session 2 (7/3-7/14) Session 3 (7/17-7/28) Session 4 (7/31-8/11) Session 5 (8/14-8/19) Adult Lessons (6/20-8/1)

Mondays—Thursdays 3:30pm or 4:30pm (8 classes) Level 1-6 Mon, Wed & Fri @ 9:30 am Parent/Child Class & Levels 1–3 (6 classes) Adult lessons are held on Tuesdays at 6:30 pm

All of our instructors are American Red Cross-trained Water Safety Instructors For more information contact: Christine Klint christine.klint@purchase.edu | 914-251-6546 www.purchaseaquatics.weebly.com

Flexible MP SUMMER CA scheduling You choose the days! You choose the weeks!

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Nothing Else Even Comes Close!

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25 Hubbels Dr. Mt. Kisko • 914.244.8811

Begins June 26

Go wild and roam free Teatown Natural Science Day Camp At Teatown, kids learn by exploration and creative play, and grow respect for each other and all living things. Four 2–week sessions for kids ages 4 to 14. 1600 Spring Valley Rd. Ossining, NY 10562 (914) 762-2912 Register at www.teatown.org

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

We offer door to door transportation.

CAMP MARKETPLACE

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CAMP MARKETPLACE

Westchester’s BEST Summer Camp!

CONCORDIA

America’s oldest continuously running co-ed camp! Affordable rates for sessions in June to August Beautiful 700 acre property in Southern CT Programs for campers aged 7 to 15

2, 4, 6, & 8 week sessions available. Many activites to choose from including; Sports, Arts, Music, Ceramics, & Waterfront options.

www.incarnationcamp.org Spring open houses and tours available. info@incarnationcamp.org or 860-787-0848 for more details

Summer Camp 2017

AITIRIONED

ES! ILITI

D CON

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FRIDAY IS... WATER INFLATABLE FUN! H Grades 1–9 CAM H Early Childhood TOUR P H Enrichment Program AVAIL S ABLE H Sports Program H Basketball Camp H Conservatory Music Programs H Early Drop-off & Late Pick-up

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914-395-4848

Ask About Our Toddler Open Gym Programs! A walk in, non-instructional playtime for crawlers to 4 year olds Summer Camp

Full, Half & Extended Day • Boys & Girls Ages 4½-12 • No experience necessary Gymnastics, Sports Performance, Trips, Games & More

Gymnastics Classes

Boys & Girls • Ages 20 months & up Beginner-Advanced Cheerleading • Private Lessons

Private Birthday Parties

Air castles • Trampolines • Giant Slide Obstacles Courses, foam filled pit & more All of our famous parties are private, and our interactive staff will make your child’s party a very special one.

One Odell Plaza, Yonkers/Hastings border Located At

(exit 9 off Saw Mill River Pkwy)

914-965-7676 gymcats.net

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Junior Golf Camp

June 5 - September 1 / Ages 6 - 16 Multi-Week Camps - Best in New York Multi-Week and Multi-Golfer Discounts Register Online Today! Full Swing • Short Game • Putting • Course Play Games • Challenges • Prizes • Tournaments • Contests Small Groups - All Skill Levels and Abilities Advanced Video Analysis & Stat Tracking Special PeeWee Camps - Age 4 & Up!

GOLF INSTRUCTION IS WHAT WE DO www.spearmanjuniorgolf.com / (800) 733-1653 Located at Doral Arrowwood in Rye Brook, Westchester

CAMP MARKETPLACE Summer 2017 Youth | Arts Technology Program FOR AGES 7-17 Our STEAM program (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) is focused on engaging pre-college youth (ages 7-17) to problem-solve in future worlds, micro and macroscopic perception, while foreseeing a sustainable future. These courses are designed to spark the imagination and cultivate critical thinking skills that will serve students well as they move forward in this millennium. They have the opportunity to work collaboratively, express themselves as makers, and combine manual and digital skills to actualize a take-away portfolio project. Session Run: Monday, July 10 through Thursday, August 3, 2017 (in two-week intervals) sunywcc.edu/peekskill/peekskillyouth 914-606-7300 ▪ peekskill@sunywcc.edu

Westchester Community College PEEKSKILL EXTENSION CENTER

Children’s Learning Center @ the YWCA

www.ywcawpcw.org

viding Early Care & Education forCenter Infants, Children’s Learning @ Toddlers, the YWCA Early CareSchool-Aged & Education for Infants, Toddlers, reschoolersProviding & Elementary Children Preschoolers & Elementary School-Aged Children

Swim @ the YWCA Swim @ the YWCA

Learn to Swim Classes • Training/CPR Lifeguard Training/CPR Learn to Swim Classes • Lifeguard Competitive Swimming • Water Exercise mpetitive Swimming (Youth & Masters) • Water Exercise Tumble @ the YWCA

t grea p cam mer ! s ption

Youth Recreational Classes TumblePreschool @ theandYWCA

Competitive Team Programs Preschool and Youth Recreational Classes t rea g , o mp Als Competitive Get FitPrograms @ the YWCA Team er ca mm ! su

ons

opti

Fitness Center & Classes • Fencing • Karate Programs • Yoga and more! Get FitYouth @ the YWCA

Adult Classes • Fitness Center Youth Sports • Karate and more!

Call 914.949.6227 x208 for membership information or visit ywcawpcw.org Like us: Facebook.com/ywcawpcw YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester • 515 North Street • White Plains

for every child... for every family... join us at the

ywca

all 914.949.6227 x208 for membership information or visit: ywcawpcw.org

Like us: Facebook.com/ywcawpcw

CA White Plains & Central Westchester • 515 North Street • White Plains

WestchesterParent 49

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Wagon Road Camp is part of The Children’s Aid Society a non-for-profit charitable organization

For information, tour appointments & registration: 914.238.4761 janetl@childrensaidsociety.org • www.childrensaidsociety.org/wagon-road-camp

• Land Sports • Fine & Performing Arts • Pools & Lakes • Adventure Course

For Children 3 to 13 Call to schedule a tour 914-367-1936 gordon@breezemont.com

THE EXPERIENCE THAT LASTS A LIFETIME

www.breezemont.com 50

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

CAMP MARKETPLACE

SPORTIME WESTCHESTER SUMMER CAMPS

SPORTIME U10 Ages 3-7

Tennis Ages 8-15

EXCEL Tennis Ages 12-16

JMTA Tennis Training Ages 7-18

Two Great Locations! SPORTIME HARBOR ISLAND, MAMARONECK 914-777-5050 | www.SportimeCamps.com/HI SPORTIME LAKE ISLE, EASTCHESTER 914-777-5151 | www.SportimeCamps.com/LIsle

Camp programs vary at each SPORTIME location.

3950WP

Continuing Education

SUMMER 2017 SERIOUS FOUNDATION. SERIOUS FUN.

Youth & Precollege Programs in the Arts

Harvey Cavalier Camp A Summer Camp as Extraordinary as Your Child! A day camp for Pre-K–Grade 9 with over 50 courses from fine arts, theater, ice skating, science, gymnastics, sports, technology, swimming, music, and much more! Harvey’s 125 acre campus of open fields and woods provides a perfect setting for an extraordinary summer camp experience. The Harvey School • 260 Jay Street, Katonah, NY 914-232-0581 • harveycavaliercamp.org

A few spots remain. Call now to learn more!

DON’T DELAY REGISTER TODAY! June 26 –August 4, 2017

1, 2, & 4 Week Programs YOUTH: PRECOLLEGE: Grades 4-8 Grades 9-12

Architecture, Digital Arts Journalism, Music, Performing Arts, STEM, Visual Arts

www.purchase.edu/youth WestchesterParent 51

CAMP MARKETPLACE Reserve Your Spot NOW!

44th

This summer, children ages 5-13 will enjoy exciting, fun filled days at the Iona College camp. Our athletic facilities serve as the setting for an exciting summer. Your child will experience two periods of swimming, sporting events, a variety of dance, arts and crafts and music.

Offering Stimulating Courses Like...

• Computers • Theater • Robotics • Swimming • Digital Photography • Sports

Hartsdale, NY • Call: 914.328.3798 Email: Squirecamps@gmail.com

THE MILESTONE SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP

Musical Drama Day Camp

A fun-ﬁlled day camp geared towards ages 2-8

Age appropriate activities include: Soccer Tennis Capoeira Music Water Play “Early Phonics” Call today for a tour or visit our Website at: themilestoneschool.com

914-667-3478

THE M I S

OOL CH

STONE S LE

M ER CAM

French, Spanish & Other Languages For Children Ages 6 Months & Up! We can bring Linguakids to your Elementary School or Nursery – Ask us how!

LARCHMONT Studio 2005 Palmer Ave. SUMMER CAMP 2017 June 26 – August 25 FALL 2017 September 11 – February 2 (914) 525-0328

michele@linguakids.com

www.linguakids.com

www.facebook.com/linguakids

Session 1: June 26th–July 21nd • Session 2: July 24th–Aug 11th

• Extended Day Available • Hot Lunches Included • Transportation Available

NEW

Summer 2017 Camp Sessions

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

Drama Discovery

8/7-11 Be in: High School Musical 2 8/14-18 Be in: The Music Man 8/21-25 Be in: Charlie & Choc. Factory 8/28-9/1 Be in: James & The Giant Peach Sign up for ONE week or MORE! AUGUST S N Meet new friends! • Learn dance, voice, IO S SES acting skills! • Air conditioned spaces! Professional staff! • No experience necessary! Perform for friends and family! Grades K-1st and 2nd-7th Reasonable rates, full day 9 am-3pm

CORBIN’S CRUSADERS DAY CAMP A sports and adventure camp with a traditional sense of belonging!

• Daily Swim lessons and a free swim • Lunch and transportation included • Various sports & adventure programs all day long!

OPEN HOUSE APRIL 22ND 2:00 – 4:00

471 North Street, Greenwich, CT • (914) 939-2969 or (212) 875-8174 Info@CorbinsCrusaders.com | CorbinsCrusaders.com SPECIAL OFFER for Westchester Parent readers. Sign up by May 10, 2017 and save 15%. New families only and cannot be used with any other discount or coupon.

CAMP MARKETPLACE

E N ROL B E FOR L 5/31 FOE 10% OF R F!

For Boys & Girls, 4-14

Days Filled With Fun & Excitement!

2-8 Week Programs Available Operated by Licensed Teachers & Administrators We Accept All Union Rates Field Trips to Movies, Bowling & Magic Shows Sports & Games, Swimming, Soccer & Basketball Arts & Crafts, Face Painting & Talent Shows And More!

FOR INFORMATION ON OUR NEXT

OPEN HOUSE CALL 1-914-792-6555 OR 1-800-DAYCAMP (329-2267)

WestchesterParent 53

PartyCentral BIRTHDAY GIFTS AFFORDABLES A QUALITY CHILDREN’S CONSIGNMENT STORE 10 Main St., Dobbs Ferry 914-627-9462 affordablechild.com We are a quality consignment store, offering children’s clothing, maternity clothes, baby equipment, and toys. A great place to shop for a birthday gift! GIRL AGAIN 4 Martine Ave., White Plains 914-358-1460 girlagain.com girlagain@yesshecaninc.org Girl AGain is a resale boutique for gently used American Girl dolls and books, which make great birthday gifts! TILLY...A DEER’S TALE 914-764-5564 tillyadeerstale.com Tilly...A Deer’s Tale is about a real deer that lives in upstate New York and faces challenges after an accident. This powerful story is meant to inspire children living with physical challenges or limitations. The book makes a great birthday gift! PARTY ENTERTAINMENT AMANDABEAR PARTY RENTALS 347-326-5567 amandabearpartyrentals.com AmandaBear Party Rentals provides everything you need for an unforgettable party. AMY ROSEN COOKING BY DESIGN 917-903-1451 amyrosencookingbydesign.com amyrosencookingbydesign@gmail.com Have a cooking party for your child’s next birthday. From Cupcake Wars to Pizza Creations to chocolate melting, molding, and decorating, your kids will enjoy the fully hands-on experience. BUTTERFLY BIRTHDAYS 914-582-7793 butterflybirthdays.com info@butterflybirthdays.com Celebrate your special day with the wonder of butterflies. We bring our pavilion to you! Booking parties May-October, events large or small! info@butterflybirthdays.com. CLOWNS.COM Proudly serving Westchester, Long 54

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

DAVE’S CAST OF CHARACTERS 914-235-7100 davescast.com Make your party a special one! Dave’s entertainment services include more than 100 costumed characters. From princesses and superheroes to pirates and tea parties, there’s something for everyone. KIDS COOKERY 914-937-2012 lovekidscookery.com kidscookery@yahoo.com Kids Cookery’s passion is to make your child’s birthday a memorable, unique, exciting, and creative cooking experience! LONGFORD’S MOBILE SCOOP SHOPPE 197 Lakeview Ave., West Harrison 914-804-6969 Longford’s Ice Cream 4 Elm Place, Rye 914-967-3797 longfordsicecream.com Westchester’s first mobile scoop shoppe serving our award-winning ice cream at all of your parties, celebrations, and private events. Book your event today. Also, visit our retail store in Rye to order one of our custom cakes for your next party celebration. OUTDOOR LASER TAG, USA 914-413-7138 oltusa.com lasertagisfun@gmail.com Tired of the same old party? Outdoor Laser Tag plays like paintball but without pain or mess. We transform your property into an exciting, outdoor mission field. Our mission: create an action-packed, memorable experience for all! PARTY PLACES A-GAME SPORTS 856 Main St., New Rochelle 914-278-9477 agamesports.net; info@agamesports.net A-Game Sports offers a variety of

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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

birthday party packages for children of all ages. Each 90-minute party includes supervised playtime with two coaches on a private section of turf. ARTISTREE PERFORMING ARTS 114 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck 914-835-2200 artistreearts.com heather@artistreearts.com Artistree Performing Arts creates amazing birthday parties for children ages 1-10. Have your party in our beautifully renovated studio or let us come to you with just the entertainment. BACH TO ROCK MAMARONECK 130 Mamaroneck Ave., Mamaroneck 914-341-1457 mamaroneck.bachtorock.com mamaroneck@bachtorock.com Looking for a fun birthday party at a reasonable price? We have three different parties: Rock Star, Karaoke, or Rock City, for an unforgettable experience! BLUE MOON MEXICAN CAFÉ 7-27 Pondfield Road, Bronxville 914-337-4000 42 Kinderkamack Road, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 201-782-9500 23 E. Palisade Ave., Englewood, NJ 201-541-0600 327 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, NJ 201-891-1331 595 Broadway, Norwood, NJ 201-784-3311 bluemoonmexicancafe.com Looking to spice up your child’s next birthday party without sending your savings south of the border? Your party guests will revel in a fun-filled celebration with a mouth-watering menu. Call today to find out more! CHOCOLATIONS 607 E. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck 914-777-3600 chocolations.com maria@chocolations.com Have your child’s next party at Chocolations. Each child will become a chocolatier and create their own chocolate bar, and have a cupcake lesson in which they will transform a plain cupcake into an elaborate one. CREATIVE CORNER OF LARCHMONT 7 Addison St., Larchmont 914-833-2880

creativecornerlarchmont.com creativecornerlarchmont@gmail.com Creative Corner is the perfect place to celebrate a birthday! Art party options include wood toys, treasure boxes, canvas bags, ceramic piggy banks, and canvas paintings. We will help every step of the way. DAVE AND BUSTER’S PELHAM MANOR 881 Pelham Parkway, Pelham Manor 914-380-8506 daveandbusters.com/specialevents beatriz_peneda@daveandbusters.com Dave & Buster’s of Pelham Manor is the best place for birthday parties, with great food and games all in one place, it’s the perfect party space. DINOSAURS ROCK®, GEMS ROCK®, OCEANS ROCK® EVENTS AND SUPPLIES 800-411-3466 dinosaursrock.com dinosaursrocksuperstore.com dinosaursrock2@gmail.com We bring the museum to you! Amazing parties and school events for ages 3-13. Hands-on! Take home real fossils and minerals from a dig, excavation, or gemstone mining. Fascinating themes: Dinosaurs and Fossils, Minerals, or Oceans. FASHION ARTS STUDIO OF WESTCHESTER 168A Irving Ave., Port Chester 917-995-3191 fashionartsstudio.com Have a fashion design theme party with The Fashion Arts Studio. It offers three themes: a Fashion Drawing Party, a Fashion Tote-Making Party, and a Fashion T-Shirt Decorating Party! FUNFUZION AT NEW ROC CITY 29 LeCount Place (Exit 16 off I-95), New Rochelle Party Central: 914-637-7575, option 1 funfuziononline.com Calling all birthday superstars! You and your guests will be dazzled by a unique, interactive party experience! GYMCATS GYMNASTICS AND BIRTHDAY PARTY CENTER 1 Odell Plaza at Equalize Fitness, Yonkers 914-965-7676; gymcats.net We are famous for our unique private birthday parties. Our enthusiastic, interactive staff will have partygoers laughing and yelling as they swing on rings, jump, bounce, climb, and roll through our super obstacle course.

HOMMOCKS PARK ICE RINK Boston Post Road and Weaver Street, Larchmont 914-834-1069 hommocksparkicerink.org Have your birthday party on ice! Host your next special party at the coolest place in town, Mamaroneck’s popular enclosed Hommocks Park ice-skating rink. HOUSE OF SPORTS WESTCHESTER 1 Elm St., Ardsley 914-479-5419 houseofsportsny.com The House of Sports is Westchester’s ultimate birthday party zone for children of all ages! Give your child the party of their dreams by hosting a sports-themed bash at Westchester’s premier athletic facility. THE HUDSON CREAMERY 55 Hudson Ave., Peekskill 914-293-7811 thehudsoncreamery.com Westchester birthday parties with a sweet twist! Let us host your next birthday party. We provide the fun, a whimsical place, and all the ice cream you can eat. JODI’S GYM 25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 244 E. 84th St., Manhattan 212-772-7633 jodisgym.com Kids run, jump, climb, tumble, slide, bounce, and giggle to their hearts’ delight at Jodi’s Gym, at which action-packed parties and unmatched experience have won children’s hearts for 35 years. LIFE THE PLACE TO BE 2 Lawrence St., Ardsley 914-591-4400 lifetheplacetobe.com/kids-parties steven@lifetheplacetobe.com LIFE turns children’s parties into lifelong memories. Choose from a wide array of exciting themes, from laser tag to dance parties, runway glamour to inflatable madness to bowling, karaoke, and create-a-furry-friend parties! THE LITTLE GYM 777 White Plains Road, Scarsdale 914-722-0072; tlgscarsdaleny.com 2121 Broadway, 2nd Floor (between 74th and 75th streets), Upper West Side, Manhattan 212-799-1225; tlgupperwestsideny.com 207 E. 94th St. (between Second and Third avenues), Upper East Side, Manhattan 212-787-1124; tlguppereastsideny.com 28 Franklin Turnpike, Waldwick, NJ 201-445-4444; tlgwaldwicknj.com A private party at The Little Gym is a perfect way to celebrate your child’s next

birthday. Gymnastics, games, obstacle courses, trampoline, sports, and music are tailored to your child’s interests! MUSIC CONSERVATORY OF WESTCHESTER 216 Central Ave., White Plains 914-761-3900 musicconservatory.org Celebrate your child’s birthday at the Music Conservatory with an introductory music skills class, or perhaps treat them to a trial lesson in any instrument or voice! MUSICAL MUNCHKINS 167 Scarsdale Road, Tuckahoe 914-771-7000 musicalmunchkins.com Musical Munchkins is the perfect birthday party activity for babies through age 5! Enjoy group drumming, funny favorite sing-along songs, fabulous dancing scarves, and more! PLAYLAND ICE CASINO 100 Playland Parkway, Rye 914-481-5941 playlandice.com Kids and families love PlayLand Ice in Rye. You and your guests can have the ice all to yourself. Visit us online for more information. SPORTIME USA 380 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-2111 x2 sportimeusa.com Birthday parties? That’s our specialty! Celebrate your birthday at Sportime USA, the coolest place to have a party in Westchester. STUDIO B DANCE CENTER 277 White Plains Road (entrance on Prospect Avenue), Eastchester 914-793-2799 studiobdance.com Each party at Studio B is uniquely designed to give the birthday child an exciting, personalized experience. Boys and girls ages 2 and older enjoy dancing and playing games to their favorite music. WESTCHESTER SKATING ACADEMY (WSA) 91 Fairview Park Drive (Route 9A), Elmsford 914-347-8232 skatewsa.com Westchester Skating Academy: the coolest place to have your party! All parties include ice-skating, skate rentals, a private party room, a party facilitator, pizza, and beverages. YOUNG AT ART WORKSHOP INC. 1088 Central Ave., Scarsdale 914-723-9229 A unique birthday party experience—each child brings home a personalized piece of art!

Professional services

Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANTS COLLEGE ADVICE 101, JANE C. HOFFMAN, M.B.A., C.E.P. Larchmont 914-833-1573 collegeadvice101.com jane@collegeadvice101.com Personalized advice and support to students and parents as they navigate the increasingly complex college admissions terrain and research, apply, and gain admission to colleges. 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 disabilities, attending suspension hearings, CSE, and resolution meetings. Our attorneys offer assistance on a sliding scale.

PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS WESTCHESTER PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING CENTER Dr. Friedmutter, director 1088 Central Park Ave., Suite 224, Scarsdale 914-548-7509 wptcenter.com; wptcenter@gmail.com At Westchester Psychological Testing Center we offer psychological, psychoeducational, and neuropsychological evaluations to determine if an individual has a learning disability, autism, or Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and what specific test accommodations or special education services are necessary and appropriate. 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.

OPENHOUSES 2017 East Pointe Dance

11 Rye Ridge Plaza, Rye Brook 914-202-2200 eastpointedance.com info@eastpointedance.com Join us for open house June 12–16 from 1pm until close and June 17 from 9am-2pm. Take a tour of our studios, learn about our programs, meet instructors, and participate in free trial classes.

Hudson Country Montessori School 340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle 914-636-6202 hudsoncountry.org Tours are available each weekday

beginning at 9:30am. Please call to schedule a visit and see how we inspire a love of learning in each child.

Oasis Summer Day Camp in Dobbs Ferry at Mercy College

Upper Camp-Mercy College 555 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry 646-519-5057 Lower Camp-Masters School 49 Clinton Ave., Dobbs Ferry oasischildren.com dobbs@oasischildren.com Join us for an information session for Lower Camp, ages 3 to entering first grade, on May 13 and 20, from 1-2pm at Masters School Middle School.

WestchesterParent 55

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May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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ACROBATICS / GYMNASTICS Gym Cats Gymnastics............................48 Jodi’s Gym - Westchester.......................46 BIRTHDAY / PARTY SERVICES Bach to Rock - Westchester...................53 Blue Moon Mexican Café ......................29 Chelsea Piers - CT................................. 11 Dinosaurs Rock......................................14 Gulliver’s Gate........................................25 Gym Cats Gymnastics............................48 House of Sports......................................43 Jodi’s Gym - Westchester.......................46 Life The Place To Be..............................18 Little Gym - Westchester..........................7 Pinebrook Fitness...................................47 PlayLand Ice Casino...............................44 Sportime USA Inc...................................17 Westchester Parent Party Planner.........56 Westchester Skate Academy..................44 CAMPS American Academy of Ballet ....................9 Ann & Andy.............................................44 Bach to Rock - Westchester...................53 Badger Day Camp..................................46 Breezemont Day Camp..........................50 Camp Clio...............................................51 Camp Ramaquois...................................50 Camp Young Judea Sprout Westchester.....53 Campus Kids Summer Camp.................53 Chelsea Piers - CT................................. 11 Computer Adventures, LLC....................41 Concordia College..................................48 Corbin’s Crusaders.................................52 Drama Discovery Camp.........................52 East Pointe Dance..................................44 Harvey School Cavalier Summer Camp......51 House of Sports......................................43 Hudson Country Montessori.............42, 50 Incarnation Camp...................................48 Iona College Summer Day Camps.........52 Jodi’s Gym - Westchester.......................46 LinguaKids, LLC.....................................52 Little Gym - Westchester..........................7 Mabel’s Labels Inc..................................13 Milestone School (The)...........................52

Oasis Children Services.........................45 Pinebrook Fitness...................................47 Playland Ice Casino................................44 Purchase College / SUNY Aquatic Program.....................................46 Purchase College: Youth & Pre-College Program..............................51 Spearman Golf Academy........................48 Sportime.................................................51 Squire Advantage Camps.......................52 Studio B Dance.......................................43 Teatown Lake Reservation.....................46 Thornton Donovan School........................2 Wagon Road Camp................................50 Westchester Community College: Pre-College.......................................30, 49 Westchester Skate Academy..................44 Westchester Summer Day......................44 Young People’s Day Camp - Westchester.... 53 YWCA - White Plains..............................49 CHILD CARE / DAY CARE Ann & Andy.............................................44 Musical Munchkins.................................29 CLASSES Alcott Montessori....................................29 American Academy of Ballet ....................9 Bach to Rock - Westchester...................53 Computer Adventures, LLC....................41 East Pointe Dance..................................44 Easter Seals Project Explore..................14 Fin 2 Swim..............................................17 Gym Cats Gymnastics............................48 Harvey School Cavalier Summer Camp......51 LinguaKids, LLC.....................................52 Musical Munchkins.................................29 Purchase College / SUNY Aquatic Program.....................................46 Sportime.................................................51 Studio B Dance.......................................43 Westchester Community College: Extention Program..................................45 Westchester Community College: Pre-College.......................................30, 49 Westchester County Parks.....................47 YWCA - White Plains..............................49

DANCE East Pointe Dance..................................44 Studio B Dance.......................................43 EDUCATION Alcott Montessori....................................29 Camp Young Judea Sprout Westchester... 53 Children’s Jewish Education Group........14 Dicker Reading Method............................5 Gina DeCrescenzo Law Offices.............25 Hudson Country Montessori.............42, 50 LinguaKids, LLC.....................................52 Milestone School (The)...........................52 Sylvan Learning Centers........................15 Thornton Donovan School........................2 Westchester Community College: Extention Program..................................45 Westchester County Parks.....................47 FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS / OUTINGS Chelsea Piers - CT................................. 11 Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor.............29 Dinosaurs Rock......................................14 Gulliver’s Gate........................................25 Inn at East Hill Farm (The).....................27 Life The Place To Be..............................18 Sportime USA Inc...................................17 FAMILY TRAVEL Inn at East Hill Farm (The).....................27 FITNESS Jodi’s Gym - Westchester.......................46 Pinebrook Fitness...................................47 HEALTH Allied Physicians Group....................19, 57 Blais Orthodontics..................................21 Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry....................22 Caring for Kids Pediatric Dentistry..........57 Fidelis Care New York..............................3 Gentle Care Pediatric Dentistry..............21 Main Street Pediatric Dentistry...............23 Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital (The)....60 One Dent................................................15 Pediatric Associates of Southern Westchester............................23 The Lice Chicks......................................22

VS Paris Speech and Language Therapy .... 19 Westchester Family Orthodontics ..........22 HOME SERVICES Mabel’s Labels Inc..................................13 LEGAL SERVICES Gina DeCrescenzo Law Offices.............25 MUSIC Bach to Rock - Westchester...................53 Purchase College: Youth & Pre-College Program..............................51 PERFORMING ARTS / ACTING Purchase College: Youth & Pre-College Program..............................51 RELIGIOUS Children’s Jewish Education Group........14 RESTAURANT / FOOD SERVICES. Blue Moon Mexican Café ......................29 RETAIL Tilly...A Deer’s Tale..................................29 SPECIAL EVENTS Dave & Buster’s Pelham Manor.............29 Jewish Week (The).................................59 SPECIAL NEEDS Dicker Reading Method............................5 Easter Seals Project Explore..................14 Gina DeCrescenzo Law Offices.............25 VS Paris Speech and Language Therapy ...19 SPORTS Badger Day Camp..................................46 Camp Ramaquois...................................50 Fin 2 Swim..............................................17 Iona College Summer Day Camps.........52 Purchase College / SUNY Aquatic Program.....................................46 Spearman Golf Academy........................48 Sportime.................................................51 Squire Advantage Camps.......................52 TUTORS Dicker Reading Method............................5 Sylvan Learning Centers........................15

WestchesterParent 57

VOICES

Non-Judgment Day in the Village

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Why I am thankful for all the parenting advice I got along the way—from friends, family, and strangers alike. By Heather Ouida

rior to being a mother I thought I knew all there was to know about raising a child. I promised myself that when I had children, my kids would never watch TV, stay up too late, eat junk food, scream in the supermarket, be fresh, or throw sand in the sandbox. I was so judgmental I didn’t even realize I was being so—until I had my first child. As a mom, I’ve learned I don’t have all the answers, and there is no one right way to raise a child. I recognize that sometimes you can do everything right and your 2-year-old may still flop on the ground and pound his feet in a full-blown, screaming tantrum in the check-out line. I admit what I now profess to know only came about with the help of so many—mothers, friends, even strangers, who, in short, helped me be less judgmental of myself and of others. I realize now the wisdom of “It takes a village…” and am thankful for all the women who helped me along the way. When my older son was going through a difficult time and I would start a sentence by saying, “Why can’t he just… (fill in the blank: eat like other children, go to mommy-and-me classes without crying, etc.),” they would say, “Because he’s just himself.” This is a mantra from the Village I continue to carry with me today. Now that I’ve opened this Village door, I can see just how many

people have played a positive, non-judgmental role. When my younger son decided getting up at 3:50am was a totally acceptable time to start his day, my family and friends would call with suggestions, encouragement, and empathy (and the occasional Cosmo when things got really rough!). They reminded me, too, that just as I can’t take credit for all of my kids’ successes (as much as I would like to!), I also can’t take the blame for all the things they sometimes do wrong. “Don’t make this about you and your parenting,” they would say. “Just help them through it.” The Village cannot be a parochial or provincial place. On that note, I want to acknowledge all the strangers who have helped me out in airports, restaurants, and grocery stores over the years when I was having a hard time with my boys. I promise you and them that I will pay it forward. I will not give you a mean look when your child is screaming, I will not tell you I can’t understand why your child can’t happily share because mine always does. I will not look at my watch when I see your child is up past what I consider to be an acceptable bedtime. I will remember that I, too, have been there. I will remind myself what I have learned from so many others along the way. I will help you, offer you a hand and listen; I will not judge you. I am part of your Village, too.

Heather Ouida is the co-founder of Mommybites, a site that offers nanny boards, online parenting education, and other services. She lives in New York City with her husband, two sons, and her pet turtle Squirtle. This essay first appeared on Mommybites.com.

May 2017 | nymetroparents.com

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