Westchester Family

July 2017

Growing Great Families for 27 Years

2017 The best of everything for families, voted on by our readers Orthodontia: More Than Straight Teeth

179

Fun July Activities

Where to See Fourth of July Fireworks!

WestchesterFamily.com

HELP YOUR CHILD STAY IN THE GAME THERE ARE MORE WAYS TO PLAY THAN EVER BEFORE – AND YOU CAN GET INVOLVED!

Junior Team Tennis

Junior Tournaments

Kids can get active, have fun and make friends

Advance your game by getting on the court, learning from the best and connecting with your friends. Competing in Junior Tournaments will help take your game as far as you want to go – high school, college or the pros.

by playing tennis on a team. Junior Team Tennis allows kids to enjoy the sport for a lifetime from the very first day of play. Parents, why don’t you help manage a team? No tennis experience is required and it’s a great way to share a positive experience with your child.

Need Help Managing Your Team?

Think Outside The Court

When your child is ready to compete, there is PARENTS

AFTER-SCHOOL PROVIDERS

no better way to start than with USTA Junior Tournaments. Junior Tournaments are great for kids who want to test their games, get out on the court and make new friends along the way. There is local competition for kids of all levels—entry-level, intermediate and advanced —and as age and ability advance, there are

PE TEACHERS

HIGH SCHOOL COACHES

Contact Samantha Chin to learn more today at schin@eastern.usta.com or at 914-697-2389

also national level tournaments.

Contact Rob Festa at festa@eastern.usta.com or at 914-697-2398 to learn more today!

Thornton-Donovan School’s Summer Challenge Program Dates: July 3 – August 18, 2017 8:45 am to 3:45 pm • Ages 3–14 • Co-ed REGULAR RATE

EARLY BIRD RATE!

EARLY, EARLY BIRD RATE!!

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6

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5

$3,300

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$2,524

4

$2,640

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3

$1,980

$1,920

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2

$1,320

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1

$ 660

No discount

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NO. OF WEEKS

$660.00 Per Week

(Paid in full by May 1st )

• Swimming Instruction on Premises • In-Ground Pool

(Paid in full by April 1st )

• Lunch and Transportation Included • Accredited Summer School Program

100 Overlook Circle, New Rochelle, NY • 914.632.8836 • www.td.edu July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

3

CONTENTS July 2017

Volume twenty-seven • number 7

departments

6 Editor’s Note 8 Bits & Pieces 10 Fab 4

Four Great Water Parks

28 ASK THE SPECIALIST

Orthodontics

30 LET’S GO TO ...

Croton Gorge Park

46 Last Bite

Grilled Pizza

calendar

2017

Family Activities for July

33 Top Pick: Flamingos 36 Editor’s Pick: Live Butterfly Exhibit 38 Editor’s Pick: Katonah Museum Family Day 40 Light Up the Sky:

Fireworks 41 Connecticut Corner 42 City Picks

advertising

features 12

29 Orthodontists and Pediatric Dentists

2017 Family Favorites Awards

We asked and you voted! Now it’s time for the big reveal. Read our Family Favorites Award feature to find out who won the 2017 Family Favorites Awards.

We cover everything from ice cream to nature centers and baseball to academic enrichment. Learn what other parents say is the best of the best for families in our area.

July 2017

Growing Great Families for 27 Years

2017 The best of everything for families, voted on by our readers Orthodontia: More Than Straight Teeth

NTH ACTIVITIES

179

FUN JULY ACTIVITIES

Where to See Fourth of July Fireworks!

WestchesterFamily.com

4

Westchester Family | July 2017

on the cover 12

2017 Family Favorites Awards

28

Orthodontia: More Than Straight Teeth

33

179 July Event

40

July Fourth Fireworks

Coming Next Month Our Calendar of Events Looking to fill the last bit of summer with some family fun? Look no further than our calendar of events. There is something happening every day of the week.

See our online calendar at westchesterfamily. com for even more exciting kid-friendly activities.

Dutchess County Fair Summer isn’t over until you have been to a County Fair. Learn what you’ll find at this annual event in our parent review.

Plus … Westchester Family’s award-winning searchable calendar for families and much more!

Look for it starting July 26!

Our Goal is Zero.

We’ve We’ve come come a a long long way way in in getting getting kids kids covered covered and giving them a healthy start in life with and giving them a healthy start in life - with regular regular checkups, dental and eye care, immunizations, checkups, dental and eye care, immunizations, and and a a doctor doctor who who knows knows their their name. name.

But But today, today, there there are are still still more more than than 100,000 100,000 children children in New York State who do not have health insurance in New York State who do not have health insurance – – or or the the care care they they need need to to grow grow up up happy, happy, healthy, healthy, and strong. and strong.

It’s It’s a a troubling troubling statistic statistic that that we we can can change. change.

That’s That’s why why Fidelis Fidelis Care Care is is joining joining with New Yorkers everywhere with New Yorkers everywhere to to tell tell parents that learning about quality, parents that learning about quality, affordable affordable health health insurance insurance is is just just a call or click away. a call or click away.

Let’s Let’s Get Get Every Every Child Child Covered.

Covered.

Call: Call:

1-888-FIDELIS 1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547) (1-888-343-3547) 1-800-421-1220 1-800-421-1220 TTY TTY Visit: Visit:

fideliscare.org fideliscare.org fideliscare.org/offices fideliscare.org/offices Apply Apply for for Enrollment: Enrollment:

www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov

To learn more about applying for health To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Child Health Plus and insurance, including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY State of Health, The Medicaid through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.

Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www. nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777. nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

5

Editor’s Note //

Save This Magazine!

G

rab this magazine and hold onto it!

Our readers tell us that our July issue is a must save and we know why – our annual Family Favorites awards! Sometime during the next year there is a good chance you are going to ask yourself, where should we hold the next birthday party? Where should we go for tutoring? And what about joining a baseball team or signing up for an art lesson?

Who knows best? Other parents of course, so here’s a word-of-mouth survey that gives you the low-down on what is tops in Westchester. Thanks to all our readers who voted – we value your opinion and so do our other parent readers. Enjoy reading the 2017 Family Favorite awards feature this month.

Because it’s summer we decided to highlight a wonderful, free outdoor location that is perfect for cooling off. Read what our

parent reviewer Kate Angel says about Croton Gorge Park.

Our calendar editor Susan Goldberg has combed the county and found the best activities for families – don’t miss the Calendar of Events in this issue.

There are plenty of great events happening – from July 4th firework displays and marionettes to pirate sightings and Heritage Festivals.

No doubt you have the grill going so give the Whole Foods Market recipe for Grilled Pizza featured in this issue a try. You won’t be disappointed and it is tons of fun for the kids too!

2017

Happy Summer, Jean Sheff Co-Publisher, Editor

Westchester Family | July 2017

President & Publisher Jennifer Goodstein Westchester Family WestchesterFamily.com Publisher Clifford Luster cluster@cnglocal.com co-Publisher/ Editor Jean Sheff edit@westchesterfamily.com Managing Editor Vince DiMiceli Calendar Editor Susan Goldberg calendar@westchesterfamily.com ADVERTISING SALES Account Managers LynnMarie Hanley lynnmarie.hanley@westchesterfamily.com Nina Spiegelman nina.spiegelman@westchesterfamily.com PRODUctION Art Director Leah Mitch production@cnglocal.com

DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION Rare Sales Inc. Bob Engelman 914-661-3605 circulation@westchesterfamily.com Printed by Publication Printers Please recycle this magazine.

The Dalessandro’s are on their way to Smugglers’ Notch as the winners of Westchester Family’s 2017 Family Favorites contest.

Feedback Share your feedback and ideas!

6

CEO Les Goodstein

Production Staff Arthur Arutyunov Gardy Charles Earl Ferrer John Napoli Mark Ramos Michael Shirey

We Have a Winner!

Congratulations to the Dalessandro family!

Doug, Rosealie, Avery and Aurora Dalessandro of Cortlandt Manor are the Grand Prize winners of the 2017 Family Favorites contest. The Dalessandro’s will be enjoying a fourday/four-night family vacation for four at the fabulous Smugglers’ Notch Resort in Vermont.

“Voting in the Family Favorites award contest was fun and easy! We’re so happy to accept this prize and we are looking forward to visiting Smugglers’ Notch,” says Doug Dalessandro. They look very happy in their last family vacation photo (shown here) and we know they will be smiling extra bright in their Smugglers’ Notch vacation photo. Have a great time!

Published by Community News Group

Email us at edit@WestchesterFamily.com.

Westchester Family (ISSN 1043-6774) is published monthly by Community News Group, LLC. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. Limit of one free copy per reader. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the Publisher. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis. Editorial submissions are welcome.

Westchester Family 1 Metrotech Center Brooklyn NY 11201 © 2017 Community News Group LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Contests // SONNENGLAS Solar/LED Outdoor Lamp Enter to win a beautiful, functional, and socially-responsible new product for the home and garden. SONNENGLAS, a stylish mason jar with a solar panel lid containing LEDs that you can light up when the sun goes down. All the rage in Europe and Africa (with two million sold), SONNENGLAS combines green high-tech with superlative design, and is now making its debut in the U.S., with countless uses on the patio, in the garden, on the tabletop and much more.

But even better, SONNENGLAS is made in a socially sustainable way. It was developed in South Africa in 2011 as a source of light for people in areas with no access to electricity. It’s made from recycled glass, with 70% of the materials used coming from South Africa, where the company trains otherwise unskilled workers, and has created jobs for nearly 70 men and women who had no other job prospects. As such, SONNENGLAS is clearly a feel-good product. SONNENGLAS retails for $34.99, and is available at sonnenglas.net and amazon.com. Enter now at WestchesterFamily.com.

Sesame Street: Elmo Loves Animals Let your child explore animals in their natural habitats in this brand-new Warner Bros. Home Entertainment and Sesame Street release. As Sesame friends explore and use the power of imagination, children can learn about science, animals and nature such as what a paleontologist is, why bears hibernate, and what farm animals like to eat. Elmo and friends pretend to be all the wild animals that they come across. DVD includes more than three hours of content, plus a bonus full-length feature, Dinosaurs. Retail value, $14.97. Enter now at WestchesterFamily.com.

Children are growing up.

Parents are getting older.

You want to help both.

We’ll help you plan for the people you love.

Today, many families face more financial challenges than ever before, juggling decisions about saving for retirement, education, expenses, life and health insurance, and providing care for aging loved ones all at the same time.

At Morgan Stanley, we can help you define what’s important to you and create a financial plan that assists you in achieving your goals.

To see how, please call us at the number provided.

Judith Frost

Promo Code: 171033 • Expires: 7/31/18

Financial Advisor Morgan Stanley 860-313-7129 Judith.Frost@morganstanley.com www.morganstanleyfa.com/judith.frost Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC offers insurance products in conjunction with its licensed insurance agency affiliates.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP(with flame design) in the U.S. ©2017 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 1818308 06/17

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com LDC_W_NY_PARENT_QUEENS_.indd 1

6/12/17 12:38 PM

7

Bits & Pieces // Fast Facts and Timely Tips

Skip the Emergency Room: Firework Basics In Putnam and Rockland County you can put an extra shimmer in your 4th of July by setting off sparklers, which are legal.

But the sale of sparklers (as well as other fireworks) is still illegal in Westchester County. That doesn’t mean your child won’t be introduced to them. Remind children that fireworks are dangerous and are not for play. See our Calendar of Events for a complete guide to firework displays in our area.

Museum Madness Oh No! 1 in 10 Americans have never been to a museum.

Oh Yes! 1 in 5 Americans are more likely to visit museums with their child.

(Source: The Thinkwell Group) Museum visits make a great summer outing. Schedules are less rushed and it’s perfect for rainy or very hot days. Buck the trend and go to one of these great local museums.

• Hudson River Museum, Yonkers. hrm.org • Katonah Museum of Art, Katonah. katonahmuseum.org.

• Neuberger Museum of Art, Purchase. neuberger.org.

• Stepping Stones Museum for Children, Norwalk, Conn. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

• Westchester Children’s Museum, Rye. discoverwcm.org.

Kidpreneur Introduces Third Product!

Alina Morse asked, “why can’t we make a lollipop that’s delicious and good for your teeth?’” And then she made one – Zollipops, followed by Zolli Drops. Now the 11-year-old is introducing Zaffi Taffy, the sugar-free, gluten-free, vegan, dairyfree natural product that tastes good and cleans your teeth.

Find these products at Whole Foods Market, Toys “R” Us, Costco.com and Amazon.com.

8

Westchester Family | July 2017

Yummy: New Farmers’ Market Get ready for juicy tomatoes and other local produce, artisan bread and softripened cheese, fresh fruit and grassfed meats and Red Barn Bakery vegan and gluten-free treats.

Samantha Friedman has opened Eastchester’s first-ever farmers’ market. Stop by every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. now through Oct. 15 in the rear parking lot at Country Markets Supermarket.

Eastchester Farmers’ Market, 344 White Plains Road, Eastchester. ­Jean Sheff

A Brighter Summer Ahead 1-12th Grade • Enrichment Programs • SAT/ACT/ISEE PREP • STEAM Activities We make math make sense.

WINNER 2017

At Mathnasium, we teach math in a way that makes sense. Our summer programs are designed to combat summer learning loss—we’ll help your kids retain all they learned in math class this year, so they’re well equipped for a strong start in the fall!

A Brighter Now EnrollingSummer Ahead Su for

mmer

for TuToring

We make math make sense.

At Mathnasium, we teach math in a way that makes sense. Our summer programs are designed to combat summer learning loss—we’ll help your kids retain all they learned in math class this year, so they’re well equipped for a strong start in the fall!

TOP 5

MEnTion ThiS ad whEn SchEduling N ow TRial EnryouR o

2017

in STEM AnD AcTiviTiES & LEArning

lling Summer for

www.mathnasium.com Present

Mathnasium of [Location]

Mathnasium of [Location] ad to Ardsley-Irvington | 875 Sawthis Mill River Road | 914.295.2252 a (6284) Cortlandt | 50000-000-0000(0000) Dayton Lane | receive 914.502.MATH 000-000-0000 (0000) mathnasium.com/location Mamaroneck | 1009 W. Boston Post Road | 914.725.MATHmathnasium.com/location (6284) Address Line One Rye | 275 Purchase Address Street Line | 914.967.MATH (6284) Two Address Line One Tutoring Scarsdale | 747 White Plains Road | 914.725.MATH (6284) *THE ORIGINAL WESTCHESTER LOCATION!* Address Line Two Session!

Scarsdale Central Avenue | 450 Central Park Avenue | 914.725.MATH (6284)

FREE

TOP 5 2017

TOP 5 2017

TOP 5 2017

• MUSIC LESSONS FOR KIDS • ACTING CLASS FOR KIDS • CHILDREN’S THEATER COMPANY

CELEBRATING 22 YEARS IN THE COMMUNITY!

Music lessons for all ages, levels, styles and instruments.

MUSICAL INSTRUMENT SALES RENTALS AND REPAIRS NOW ACCEPTING REGISTRATION FOR SUMMER AND FALL SESSION AND OUR UNIQUE ROCK STAR VOCAL TRAINING PROGRAM. Come star in The Little Mermaid Jr. this summer. Ask us about our musical theater program today!

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

9

Fab 4 //

4 Best Water Parks in and Around Westchester When the temperatures soar there’s nothing like a refreshing dunk. A visit to a water park means the kids are entertained all day and it’s even pleasurable for adults.

Preschool Heaven Touted as America’s biggest little waterpark, this park doesn’t forget about the smallest kids.

The “Shipwreak Lagoon” kids-only area features a pirate ship with interactive geysers, dumping buckets and wet ‘n wild slides designed for preschoolers. Bigger, braver kids like the Humunga Half-Pipe, a two-person tube ride featuring a Zero Gravity Half-Pipe.

Day pass: over 42 inches: $30; children, 42 inches and under: $25. Season passes available.

Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

SplashDown Beach 16 Old Rte. 9 W, Fishkill, N.Y. 845-897-9600 splashdownbeach.com

Family Friendly There are rides, slides, waves, rivers and pools for all ages at this Long Island water park. Young kids like the Yellow Submarine wading pool and Monsoon Lagoon while older daredevils appreciate the Max Trax speed slides or Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror. Weekend Day Pass, 48 inches and under $37.99; over 48 inches tall: $47.99; parking $15.

Weekday prices are lower. Season passes available. Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Splish Splash 2549 Splish Splash Dr., Calverton, N.Y. 631-727-3600 splishsplashlongisland.com

So Close Wilslson’s Waves features a wave pool with three-foot waves for body surfing and two 18-foot high water slides. For little kids’ there’s an interactive water playground with sprays and fountains. A Westchester County Park Pass is required. Three year passes are $75 an individual or $150 for a family including two adults and any children ages 12-18. The unlimited visits Family Season Swim Pass is $300 for two adults and all children ages 5 to 18. Willson’s Waves East Lincoln Ave., Mount Vernon, N.Y. 813-6990 http://parks.westchestergov.com/ willsons-woods-park/willsons-waves

Water Park and More Add amusement park fun to a water experience at Lake Compounce. The amusement park offers roller coasters, thrill rides, kiddie rides and shows. The water park has a giant 300-gallon water bucket, thrilling slides and the gentle wave pool, Anchor Bay. Regular day rate (52” and taller), $43.99; Juniors, $30.99 (under 52” tall). Parking $9. Purchase tickets in advance online for a discount.

Season passes are available. Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday open until 9 p.m., Saturday until 10 p.m.

Lake Compounce Family Theme Park 186 Enterprise Dr., Bristol, Conn.

860-589-7974 lakecompounce.com – Jean Sheff

10

Westchester Family | July 2017

Now Enrolling for the Fall!

Great Specials Available!

Se eW

Born in Scarsdale …Now a National Sensation!

W

fr e W eT .g re ri aL aT P

La y.C CL om a /SC SS ar Sd aL e

Nationally Praised “A uniquely engaging experience for children of all ages!” — USA Today “I’ve seen it and it’s amazing! I could FEEL the energy in the room.” - Macaroni Kid

Locally Recognized

WiNNer four yearS iN a roW

★ Winner Birthday Party Place ★ ★ Winner Children’s exercise ★ ★ Winner indoor Playspace ★

914-713-3470

SUMMER HOURS: Open 7 days a week

10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Come Out and Play

utd Hands-on Exhibits + Birthday Parties + O

oor Play Area + Cafe and Museum

Store

Stepping Stones Museum for Children

www.greatplay.com/scarsdale

at Stepping Stones Museum for Children.

We’re having a Mega Summer! Rain or shine, we have all types of environments your child will enjoy. We have a tented outdoor courtyard and hands-on exhibits where children of all ages will explore, discover, create, test and learn in ways they have never imagined… see for yourself why everyone loves Stepping Stones. Plan your visit today.

steppingstonesmuseum.org/calendar

Norwalk, CT t Exit 14N or 15S off I-95

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

11

2017

Family Favorites Winners 2017 Let’s face it, who do parents ask when they want the truth about a neighborhood shop, an afterschool class or a party entertainer? Other parents of course!

This is what the Westchester Family Family Favorites contest is all about.

We’ve asked you, our readers, what your favorites are in 40 categories.

We’ve tallied the numbers and here are the results. Each category has an alphabetized list of the top five finalists with a highlight of the overall winner.

Keep this article handy so you can refer to it all year long. Tell your friends too. In addition, the article is always available just a click away in the complete digital July 2017 issue at westchesterfamily.com, where you can flip through the pages and click on the live links that take you right to the winners’ websites.

This list is compiled through a random survey of Westchester Family magazine readers, enewsletter subscribers and social media followers between March 1, 2017 and May 31, 2017. This list is not meant to represent an endorsement from Westchester Family or Community News Group. Westchester Family and Community News Group do not assume, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any person related to use of any business, service or individual included on this list. As of press time all contact information for winners was verified. All top five nominees are listed in alphabetical order. In the event of a tie in voting, all honorees with votes making them eligible to be in the top five have been listed and a special note of a tie is included.

12

Westchester Family | July 2017

Family Favorites 2017

Family Fun

Whether it’s indoors or outdoors, our readers tell us these are their family’s favorite places to play.

Amusement Center Top 5 • Great Play (Scarsdale) • Legoland Discovery Zone (Ridge Hill in Yonkers) • Rockin’ Jump (Mt. Kisco, Ridge Hill in Yonkers) • Rye Playland (Rye) • Sportime USA (Elmsford) WINNER 2017

The Winner Playland Playland Pkwy., Rye, NY 914-813-7010 or 7000 ryeplayland.org At Playland there are more than 50 rides for children, youngsters and adults, free entertainment, beach, pool, boardwalk and pier, lake boating, picnic area and mini golf.

Kiddyland is dedicated to the youngest visitors with rides that are age appropriate. Check their schedule for summer fireworks displays.

Family Resort Top 5 • Camel Back Resort (Tannersville, PA) • Great Wolf Lodge (Scotrun, PA) • Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Center (Pocono Manor, PA) • Rocking Horse Ranch (Highland, NY) • Smugglers’ Notch Resort (Smugglers’ Notch, VT) WINNER 2017

The Winner Smugglers’ Notch Resort 4323 Vermont Rte. 108 South Smugglers’ Notch, VT 855-240-9392 smuggs.com This mountainside resort village offers eight pools and four waterslides! There’s also a daylong children’s program for ages 6 weeks to 17 years that offers fun for kids and freedom for parents. Plus, plenty of daily activities for families to enjoy together. Visit their new $4.2 million FunZone 2.0, a 26,000-square-foot Family Fun complex!

Family Theatre (Live) Top 5 • Broadway Training Center (Hastings-onHudson) • Emelin Theatre (Mamaroneck)

• Play Group Theatre (White Plains) • Tarrytown Music Hall (Tarrytown) • Westchester Broadway Theatre (Valhalla) WINNER 2017

The Winner Westchester Broadway Theatre 1 Broadway Plaza, Elmsford, NY 914-592-2222 broadwaytheatre.com Families can see a wide variety of shows each year at the longest running year-round Equity theatre in the state of New York. Broadway performers, directors and designers create exciting productions just for the main stage, children’s theatre, special events and concerts that Westchester Broadway Theatre presents.

This July and August families can enjoy Annie, one of the world’s best-loved musicals and winner of seven Tony awards.

Museum for Families Top 5 • Hudson River Museum (Yonkers) • Katonah Museum of Art (Katonah) • Museum of Natural History (NYC) • Stepping Stones Museum for Children (Norwalk, CT) • Westchester Children’s Museum (Rye)

courtesy photo

Rye Playland offers tons of fun for kids of all ages.

courtesy photo

Families have great fun year-round at Smugglers’ Notch Resort in Vermont.

WINNER 2017

The Winner Westchester Children’s Museum 100 Playland Parkway, Rye, NY 914-421-5050 discoverwcm.org The Westchester Children’s Museum (WCM) is the first and only children’s museum in Westchester County. It was built by a determined grass roots effort that took years.

This vibrant, colorful, interactive museum lets children take the lead with numerous hands-on exhibits including a Toddler’s Beach, Build Your Own Roller Coaster, Makerspace, Reading Nook, KEVA Planks Construction Zone, Wind Tunnel Design and spaces for creative inspiration.

Photo by KOTA productions

See Peyton Ella play the role of Annie in West­chester Broadway Theatre’s summer 2017 production.

Nature Center Top 5 • Greenburgh Nature Center (Scarsdale) • Muscoot Farm (Katonah) • New York Botanical Garden (Bronx) • Stamford Museum & Nature Center (Stamford, CT) • Teatown Lake Reservation (Ossining)

By Lynda Shenkman Curtis

Children enjoy hands-on fun at the Westchester Children’s Museum.

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

13

Family Favorites 2017 Place to See Animals WINNER 2017

courtesy photo

This playground lets kids play in a natural setting.

The Winner Greenburgh Nature Center, Nature’s Discovery Playground 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale 914-723-3470 greenburghnaturecenter.org This 33-acre woodland preserve offers trails, a pond, gardens and a live animal museum. Plus, great family programming during the week and on weekends. Make sure to take the kids to the Nature’s Discovery Playground, an outdoor playground suitable for all ages. Here kids can climb, slide and swing in a natural setting. The treehouse-like structures are magical.

Place to Pick Apples

courtesy photo

Our readers chose Barton Orchards as the best place to pick-your-own apples.

Top 5 • Barton Orchards (Poughquag) • Fishkill Farms (Fishkill) * tie • Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard (North Salem) • Outhouse Orchards (North Salem) • Stuarts’s Farm (Yorktown Heights) • Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm (Yorktown Heights) *tie WINNER 2017

Julie Larsen Maher

See tons of animals, including mother and baby gorillas at the Bronx Zoo.

The Winner Barton Orchards 63 Apple Tree Lane, Poughquag 845-227-2306 bartonorchards.com Take the kids to pick their own apples from mid-August to November and enjoy the other activities at the farm. There’s a petting zoo, a wooden ship playground, gem stone mining, duck races and a Farm Market & Bakery with homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts and other yummy eats. Pick-your-own apples is a must for Westchster families,.There’s also a Hudson Valley Hot Air Balloon Festival held here on July 7, 8 and 9, 2017

Top 5 • Bear Mountain Zoo (Bear Mountain) • Bronx Zoo (Bronx) • Greenburgh Nature Center (Scarsdale) • Muscoot Farm (Katonah) • Summit Farm (North Salem) WINNER 2017

The Winner Bronx Zoo 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx 718-220-5100 bronxzoo.org The largest metropolitan zoo in the United States has 265 acres of parkland and naturalistic habitats for some 4,000 animals. Outdoor exhibits, indoor exhibits, camel rides, a Bug Carousel, lion and penguin feedings, a Wild Asia monorail, plus a dedicated children’s zoo all add to the year-round possibilities for fun and discovery.

Buy tickets online for 10 percent off.

Water Park Top 5 • Aquatopia Indoor Water Park (Camelback Resort, PA)* tie • Great Wolf Lodge (Scotrun, PA) • Hersheypark (Hershey, PA)* tie • Kalahari Resorts & Conventions (Pocono, PA) • SplashDown Beach (Fishkill) • Sesame Place (Langhome, NY) WINNER 2017

The Winner SplashDown Beach 16 Old Rte. 9 West, Fishkill 845-897-9600 splashdownbeach.com At America’s “Biggest Little Water Park” there’s an amazing number of awesome water rides for every age. The splash park with 50 interactive features is a hit with toddlers. Older kids like adventurous rides such as Humunga Half-Pipe and the Artic Plunge Racer. There’s also an indoor arcade if you need a break from the sun.

Activities & Learning Art Studio for Kids

courtesy photo

Kids have fun making art at the Katonah Art Center.

14

Westchester Family | July 2017

Top 5 • Clay Art Center (Port Chester) • Fun Craft of Scarsdale (Scarsdale) • Katonah Art Center (Goldens Bridge) • Pelham Art Center (Pelham) • Scribble Art Workshop (Dobbs Ferry) * tie • Young At Art Studio (Scarsdale) * tie

WINNER 2017

The Winner Katonah Art Center 65 Old Bedford Road, Goldens Bridge 914-232-4843 katonahartcenter.com

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Summer Camp

Full, half & extended day

BIRTHDAY PARTIES All of our Parties are Private. Our interactive staff will make your child’s party a very special one. Obstacle courses, Trampolines, Airslide, Foam Filled Pit, Air Castle & More!

Gymnastics, Arts & Crafts, Theme Days, Sports, Gym Games & More

Age 3 & Up Book Early!

GYMNASTICS CLASSES

Ages 2 & up | Beginner – Advanced Preschool open gym for 5 & under

BIRTHDAY PARTIES Our goal is to build a physical and mental foundation for ALL sports and to promote athleticism and good health through participation in gymnastics.

Gymnastics, Trampoline, Air Castle & More All parties are private and our amazing staff will make your party one to remember!

“We specialize in beginners.”

At Equalize Fitness

GymCats Gymnastics & Birthday Party Center One Odell Plaza, Yonkers (Exit 9 off Saw Mill River Pkwy)

(914) 965-7676 www.Gymcats.net

151 CROTONA AVE | HARRISON 914-835-0010 | ISGGYMNATICS.COM July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

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Family Favorites 2017 KAC currently offers125 visual arts classes for all ages and skill levels in their over 6,000-square-foot studio. There are specialty workshops for all ages, music classes, kid’s birthday parties and weekly half-day and fullday summer and holiday camps. There’s also a handy art supply retail store.

Children’s Theater Company

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Youngsters perform in shows such as The Music Man when they participate in Play Group Theatre’s MainStage Performance Program.

Top 5 • ARC Stages (Pleasantville) • Broadway Training Center of Westchester (Hastings-on-Hudson) • Children’s Theater Company of Peekskill (Peekskill) *tie • Mike Risko Music School (Ossining) • Play Group Theatre (White Plains) • Random Farms Kids Theater (White Plains) *tie WINNER 2017

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Kids have fun playing together at Gymboree Play & Music.

The Winner Play Group Theatre 1 N. Broadway, #111, White Plains 914-946-4433 playgroup.org Jill Abusch, artistic director and Steve Abusch, executive director, are co-founders of the Play Group Theatre (PGT), that offers a full component of programs for students ages 4 to adult. MainStage and Theatre Lab are performance programs culminating in public or open performances. Classes are offered in Design Tech, Little theatre (ages 4-6), Improv Troupe, acting, musical theatre dance, voice, college counseling, audition coaching and camps.

Indoor Playspace

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Kids get creative at A Maze in Pottery.

Top 5 • Great Play of Scarsdale (Scarsdale) • Jodi’s Gym (Mt. Kisco, NYC) • The Little Gym (Scarsdale) • Play Place (Elmsford) WINNER

Pottery Center Top 5 • A Maze in Pottery (Briarcliff Manor) • Clay Art Center (Port Chester) • Paint Your Own Pottery, Inc. (Scarsdale) • Fun Craft of Scarsdale (Scarsdale) • Westchester Putnam Pottery (Mahopac) WINNER 2017

The Winner A Maze in Pottery 76 N. State Road, Briarcliff Manor 914-502-0088 amazeinpottery.com There’s no appointment needed (except for a group of five or more) at this friendly studio.

Choose a piece of pottery, pick out your paint colors and have fun being creative. Return to pick up your glazed and fired piece that’s microwave and dishwasher safe. Kids birthday parties are a big hit here.

Movie Theater for Families Top 5 • Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (Yonkers) • City Center 15: Cinema de Lux (White Plains) • Jacob Burns Film Center (Pleasantville) • IPic Theater (Dobbs Ferry) • Showcase Cinema de Lux Ridge Hill (Yonkers) WINNER 2017

The Winner Alamo Drafthouse Cinema 2548 Central Park Ave., Yonkers 914-226-3082 drafthouse.com/yonkers Settle into your roomy seat for the show and be served a meal – there’s a kids’ menu too!

There are select “baby days” just for parents with babies. And Alamo Family movies mean there’s always something for kids to see.

A good reason Alamo makes a great kids’ birthday party venue. Check out Spider-Man Homecoming this month.

2017

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See Spider-Man Homecoming this summer at Alamo Drafthouse.

16

Westchester Family | July 2017

The Winner Gymboree Play & Music of Scarsdale 450 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-472-0192 gymborteeclasses.com For 40 years Gymboree Play & Music has been offering kids the chance to move and groove in their developmental classes that help develop cognitive, physical and social skills as they enjoy the art of play. Age appropriate classes for kids ages birth to 5. There’s everything from Baby Lab to School Readiness classes.

Academic Enrichment Program Top 5 • Hudson Learning Lab (Pleasantville) • Kumon (Croton-on-Hudson, Eastchester, Dobbs Ferry, Hartsdale, Mamaroneck, Mohegan Lake, Mt. Kisco, New Rochelle, Ossining, Pleasantville, Port Chester, Scarsdale, Somers, Tarrytown, White Plains, Yonkers, Yorktown Heights) • New Era Creative Space (Peekskill) • Mathnasium (Ardsley/Irvington, Cortland, Mamaroneck, Scarsdale, Rye) • Sylvan Learning Center (White Plains, Yonkers)

Don’t just sit there

Quality Music Education for ALL Ages and Abilities TOP 5 2017

• Private & Group Lessons • Suzuki and Early Childhood Programs • All New Jazz, Rock & Pop Offerings

Summer Theatre and Fall Programs Ages 4-17

Enrolling Now!

(914)

946-4433

playgroup.org Children’s Theater Company

Family Theatre (Live)

Acting Classes for Kids

We’re honored. Thank you!

• Music Therapy Programs • Scholarships for All Ages

NOW OPEN SUNDAYS! REGISTER ANYTIME 914.761.3900 info@musiced.org musicconservatory.org 216 Central Ave. White Plains, NY 10606

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

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Family Favorites 2017 WINNER 2017

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Kumon helps students excel with specialized math and reading programs.

The Winner Kumon Locations throughout Westchester 800-222-6284 kumon.com With 17 locations throughout Westchester, this academic program is specially designed to help kids build math and reading skills.

Children in preschool through 12th grade are taught to become self-learners. The program was developed by Toru Kumon, a math teacher who developed the materials and principles while tutoring his 8-year-old son.

Tutoring (Individual or Program)

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Math makes sense at Mathnasium.

Top 5 • Mathnasium (Ardsley/Irvington, Cortland, Mamaroneck, Scarsdale, Scarsdale/Central Avenue, Rye ) • Sylvan Learning (White Plains, Yonkers) • Kumon (Croton-on-Hudson, Dobbs Ferry, Eastchester, Hartsdale, Mamaroneck, Mohegan Lake, Mt. Kisco, New Rochelle, Ossining, Pleasantville, Port Chester, Scarsdale, Somers, Tarrytown, White Plains, Yonkers, Yorktown Heights) • The Kid Organizer, Marcella Moran (Hartsdale, Pleasantville, Rye) • Nancy Silva (travels to your location) WINNER 2017

The Winner Mathnasium Several locations in Westchester 877-601-MATH (6284)

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Professional instructors help students learn and enjoy the digital arts at Digital Arts Experience.

Acting Class for Kids

WINNER 2017

Students can experience the joy of performing at Play Group Theatre.

18

Westchester Family | July 2017

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Top 5 • Curious on Hudson (Dobbs Ferry) • The Digital Arts Experience (White Plains) • Mathnasium (Ardsley/Irvington, Cortland, Mamaroneck, Scarsdale, Rye) • STEM Alliance of Larchmont (Larchmont) • Sylvan Learning (White Plains, Yonkers) WINNER 2017

The Winner The Digital Arts Experience 170 Hamilton Ave., #100, White Plains 914-644-8100 thedae.com The Digital Arts Experience (DAE) helps students develop their interest in all things digital. The fully equipped classrooms feature the latest creative software, a makerspace with 3D printers and scanners, a photo and video studio, a recording studio and other equipment that makes learning digital easy.

Experienced instructors are passionate about teaching digital arts to kids. Summer Camps and after-school programs available.

Classes/ Lessons Top 5 • ARC Stages (Pleasantville) • Mike Risko Music Center (Ossining) • Broadway Training Center of Westchester (Hastings-on-Hudson)* tie • Play Group Theatre (White Plains) • Star Kidz (Chappaqua, Harrison, Rye Brook, White Plains) • Random Farms (Briarcliff Manor)* tie

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mathnasium.com The goal of Mathnasium is to help kids find how math makes sense. Experienced tutors use a customized learning plan and proprietary methods to help students succeed in math. If your student does well in math this method can help him excel grade level expectations. Tutoring is available for the elementary, middle school and high school student.

The Winner Play Group Theatre 1 N. Broadway, #111, White Plains 914-946-4433

playgroup.org Students can study acting and perform in MainStage and Theatre Lab productions at Play Group Theatre. Children from as young as age 4 can experience the joy of performing.

Private acting lessons, audition coaching and college counseling are also available. See their website for a complete guide to their classes.

Baseball Program for Kids Top 5 • A-Game Sports (New Rochelle) • Game On 13 (Elmsford) • Little League Baseball (Many in Westchester) • Perfect Pitch & Swing Summer Baseball Camp (Ardsley) • Yankees Baseball Summer Camp

4

WINNER WINNER

2015

2014

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

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Family Favorites 2017 WINNER 2017

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Play ball at A-Game Sports!

The Winner A-Game Sports 856 Main St., New Rochelle 914-278-9477 agamesports.net Readers highly recommend this Westchester youth sports organization that offers training programs, leagues, recreational activities, plus baseball, softball, basketball and soccer camps. Quality coaches teach skill and sportsmanship to players of all ages. Birthday parties also offered on-site.

Dance Class or Studio for Kids Top 5 • Academy of Dance Arts (Elmsford) • Breaking Ground Dance Center (Pleasantville) • Central Park Dance (Scarsdale) • Dance for Joy (Mohegan Lake) • Studio B Dance Center (Eastchester) WINNER 2017

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Dance classes at Studio B make kids jump for joy.

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The Winner Studio B Dance Center 277 White Plains Road, Eastchester 914-793-2799 studiobdance.com Since 1996, Studio B has provided a stateof-the-art dance facility with dance training in ballet, jazz, tap, musical theater, modern, contemporary and hip-hop. Classes include Baby Ballerinas for children ages 18-36 months through a series of age appropriate levels right up to the teens. Students can also participate in the Performance Company. Birthday parties are popular here.

Gymnastics Class Top 5 • GymCats Gymnastics Center (Yonkers) • Gymnastics City (Cortland) • The Little Gym (Scarsdale) • Jodi’s Gym (Mt. Kisco, NYC) • ISG Gymnastics (Harrison)

Kids have tons of fun at Jodi’s Gym.

WINNER 2017

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Harrison School of Music offers music lessons for all ages and all abilities.

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Westchester Family | July 2017

The Winner Jodi’s Gym 25 Hubbels Dr., Mt. Kisco 914-244-8811 jodisgym.com Great gymnastics classes and excellent instructors help kids stay healthy and fit.

Babies ages 9-14 months can get started with Teeny Tumblers and progress through a wide

variety of classes until their tweens. Jodi’s also offers private lessons, playtime, birthday parties, school break and summer camps, music and art.

Horseback Riding Stable Top 5 • Fox Hill Farms (Pleasantville) • Kentucky Riding Stables (Harrison) * tie • Rocking Horse Ranch (Highland, NY) • Summit Farm (North Salem) • Twin Lakes Farm (Eastchester) • Westchester Trail Rides (Croton-on-Hudson) * tie WINNER 2017

The Winner Summit Farm 24 Bloomer Road, North Salem 914-669-9622 summitfarmny.com Family-owned horseback riding stable and school offering riding lessons, horse boarding, training, trail rides and pony parties in a relaxed fun atmosphere. Lessons are available for beginners to advanced students. The facility includes outdoor and heated indoor arenas. Equine-assisted therapy for students with special needs is also available through the non-profit program H.O.P.E.

Music Lessons for Kids Top 5 • Belle School of Music (Scarsdale, White Plains, Yonkers) • Harrison School of Music (Harrison) • Mike Risko Music School (Ossining) • Bach to Rock (Mamaroneck) • Music Conservatory of Westchester (White Plains) WINNER 2017

The Winner Harrison School of Music 253 Halstead Ave., Harrison 914-698-1500 harrisonmusicschool.com Students from 4 to 70+ can take music lessons at Harrison School of Music. Classes are available in electric and acoustic guitar, piano, drums, singing, voice, bass, saxophone, violin, flute and clarinet. Professional, experienced musicians teach students of all ages and all abilities. Comfortable parent’s lounge makes waiting easy. Music recitals are held at least two times a year.

After 34 years, the world’s best-loved family musical comes back to the WBT!

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July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

21

Family Favorites 2017 Special Needs Recreation Program Top 5 • Backyard Sports (White Plains) • Green Chimneys (Brewster) * tie • KidAbilities (Hawthorne) • JCC of Scarsdale (White Plains) • South East Consortium for Special Services, Inc. (Mamaroneck) • Westchester Music Conservatory (White Plains) • tie courtesy photo

The stage is set for play and learning at Kidabilities.

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Learning tennis is fun at Play Place.

WINNER 2017

The Winner KidAbilities LLC 1 Skyline Dr., #298, Hawthorne 914-345-2400 kidabilities.com Children learn through play, and children with special needs are no different. Yet good therapy is not just play. At KidAbilities children learn through challenges designed to address their specific occupational, physical and speech needs. Licensed professionals are devoted to ensuring each student’s success.

Tennis Program for Kids Top 5 • The Play Place (Elmsford) • Club Fit (Briarcliff Manor, Jefferson Valley) • Yonkers Tennis Center (Yonkers) * tie • Brad Levine (Ossining) • New Rochelle Racquet Club at Pine Brook (New Rochelle) • Sportime (Mamaroneck, Eastchester) * tie

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There’s plenty of room for everyone on the ice at Hommocks Ice Rink.

Birthday Party Place

WINNER 2017

Our readers say kids love to celebrate their birthday at Studio B.

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Westchester Family | July 2017

2017

The Winner The Play Place 175-11 Clearbrook Road, Elmsford 914-347-5291 theplayplace.net With a philosophy of “putting the fun back in fundamentals” it’s no surprise that kids and parents appreciate the tennis program at The Play Place. The USTA 10 & Under Tennis Program, which uses appropriate-sized equipment, is taught here. Kids as young as 2 1 /2 years old can learn the basics of tennis.

Ice Skating Center Top 5 • Brewster Ice Arena (Brewster) • E J Murray Skating Center • Hammocks Park Ice Rink (Larchmont) • Playland Ice • Westchester Skating Academy WINNER 2017

The Winner Hammocks Ice Rink 140 Hommocks Rd., Larchmont 914-834-1069 hommocksicerink.org Owned and operated by the Town of Mama­ roneck, this enclosed public ice skating facility offers skating opportunities for all ages. Youth Hockey Leagues are organized in age groups from 5 to 12, and the figure skating program offers lessons for ages 4 and up. Recreational public skating is also popular here and rental skates are available. The rink also hosts birthday parties.

Services & Shopping Top 5 • Studio B Dance Center (Eastchester) • Breaking Ground Dance Center (Pleasantville) • Great Play of Scarsdale (Scarsdale) • Jodi’s Gym (Mt. Kisco, NYC) • Gymboree Play & Music (Scarsdale, Jefferson Valley, Yorktown)

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WINNER

The Winner Studio B Dance Center 277 White Plains Road, Eastchester 914-793-2799 studiobdance.com

Birthday parties are popular for boys, girls and co-ed gatherings of all ages at this dance center. Parties for ages 2 and up are held one at a time in their bright, attractive studio.

Party teachers lead the group in fun musical and dance activities. Unlimited free parking.

Children’s Exercise Program Top 5 • Club Fit (Briarcliff, Jefferson Valley) • Great Play of Scarsdale (Scarsdale) • The Little Gym of Scarsdale (Scarsdale) • Jodi’s Gym (Mt. Kisco, NYC) • The Rock Club at Pine Brook Fitness (New Rochelle)

SUMMER CAMP 2017 Classes for ages 6+ in 3D Printing, Coding, Photo/Video, & more!

WINNER 2017

THE DIGITAL ARTS EXPERIENCE TheDAE.com | 914-644-8100 | info@TheDAE.com

WINNER 2017

OUR FLAVORS

Our ice creams are freshly-made in small batches using only high-quality, local ingredients, including cream and milk delivered from Hudson Valley dairies.

We never use gums, artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners.

The results are undeniably delicious.

VISIT US AT OUR SHOP AND KITCHEN 580 Warburton Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY, 10706 • 914-525-1580 Tuesday–Thursday, 12–9 • Friday–Saturday 12–10 • Sunday 12–7

E N D L E S S WAYS TO E AT PE N NY LICK

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

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Family Favorites 2017 WINNER 2017

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Kids get exercise as they learn sports at Great Play.

The Winner Great Play of Scarsdale 969B Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-713-3470 greatplay.com/scarsdale This interactive gym for kids has programs for three age groups including toddlers (ages 6 months to 3 1/2), preschoolers (ages 3 1/2 to 5 1/2) and school-age kids (ages 4 1/2 to 10).

Start with a parent/child class and as your wee one grows explore other single or multi sport options. Kids develop motor and fitness skills in their Interactive Gym™.

it easy on parents to get the kids inside for the sometimes-dreaded haircut. The staff works to make the experience fun and quick.

Easy in, easy out is what parents want.

Ice Cream Top 5 • Blue Pig (Croton-on-Hudson) • King Kone (Pleasantville) • Carvel (Numerous location throughout Westchester) • Main Street Sweets (Tarrytown) • Penny Lick Ice Cream Company (Hastingson-Hudson) WINNER 2017

Exercise Program for Adults Top 5 • Club Fit (Briarcliff, Jefferson Valley) • Life Time Athletics (Harrison) • The Rock Club at Pine Brook Fitness (New Rochelle) • The Studios at Pine Brook Fitness (New Rochelle) • Yoga Haven (Tuckahoe) courtesy photo

Certified trainers are ready to help you get in shape at Club Fit.

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Our readers say Penny Lick Ice Cream is the best ice cream in Westchester County!

WINNER 2017

The Winner Club Fit Briarcliff Manor, Jefferson Valley 914-762-3444, 914-713-3470 clubfit.com Each Club Fit facility offers a wide range of fitness classes, there’s also an aquatic center, kid activities and sitting services. Racquetball and tennis courts are located in each location.

Locker rooms have sauna and steam rooms plus there is free towel service. There are massage therapists on-site. The Summer Camp programs fill up fast and summer memberships are also available. Birthday parties are popular here too.

Haircuts for Kids Top 5 • Just Kidz Hair Salon (Elmsford) • Kidsstyles (Bedford Hills) • Scarsdale Children’s Hair Salon (Scarsdale) • Fun Cuts for Kids (Larchmont) • Supercuts (Peekskill, Scarsdale, White Plains, Yonkers) WINNER 2017

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Besides great fashion, there’s also shoes, sandals and boots at LOL Kids Armonk.

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Westchester Family | July 2017

The Winner Scarsdale Children’s Hair Salon 450 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-574-5320 A salon that looks more like a toy store makes

The Winner Penny Lick Ice Cream Company 580 Warburton Ave., Hastings-on-Hudson 914-525-1580 pennylickicecream.com Made from real, fresh ingredients such as milk, sugar and eggs – this ice cream this is how ice cream was meant to taste. The classic flavors never go out of style and seasonal favorites such as Peach Cobbler, Raspberry Chip are very cool. Sold at Farmers’ Markets and in their store front in Hastings-onHudson. Birthday parties are held on-site.

Local Bakery for Kid’s Birthday Cake Top 5 • Anna Artuso’s Pastry Shop (Yonkers) • ABC Cakes (Mamaroneck) • Baked by Susan (Croton-on-Hudson) • Homestyle Desserts, Inc. (Peekskill) • Riviera Bakehouse (Ardsley) WINNER 2017

The Winner Riviera Bakehouse 660 Saw Mill River Road, Ardsley 914-693-9758 thewhimsicalbakehouse.com Whether it’s a birthday, graduation or other special occasion, custom cakes or cupcakes from Riviera Bakehouse adds a magical touch.

Everything here is made in-house and from scratch. The baked goods taste great and the whimsical designs are a work of art. Open seven days a week.

affordables

a quality children’s consignment store

Local Clothing Store for Kids (New Clothes) Top 5 • Lester’s Clothing (Rye) *Winner tie • LOL Kids Armonk (Armonk) * Winner tie • Neil’s Corner Spot (Mt. Kisco, Scarsdale) • Squires Family Clothing & Footwear (Chappaqua, Katonah) • Wyatt Lily (Scarsdale)

TOP 5 2017

LOTS OF SUMMER CLOTHING! • children’s clothing: sizes 0-14 • maternity clothes: casual, business & dressy • baby equipment: strollers, bouncers, cribs & more • toys, books, games • shoes & rain boots • trykes • scooters • bikes

Clothes to fit 18” Dolls!

WINNER 2017

The Winners Lester’s Clothing 18 Rye Ridge Plaza, Rye Brook 914-908-5688 lesters.com Lester’s carries clothing, shoes and accessories for contemporary juniors, young men, kids and baby. An amazing variety of brands fill the racks, which is a popular spot for sweet 16 and bar/bat mitzvah wear. Lester’s is now looking for new models so fill out the entry form online to enter your kid.

LOL Kids Armonk 384 Main St., Armonk 914-219-5232 lolkidsarmonk.com If you are looking for something special parents say you’ll find it here at LOL Kids Armonk. They carry high-quality clothing for babies, boys and girls from a collection of international designers.

They also carry distinctive boys’ and girls’ shoes, boots and sandals. Be sure to also check out their cute collection of toys, and trinkets, which make great gifts.

10 Main Street, Dobbs Ferry • 914-693-3610 Tuesday – Saturday, Closed Mondays

ABC CAKES Kids Parties ABC Cakes specializes in children’s parties of all kinds. With our parties, kids will be able to decorate and take their cakes home.

TOP 5 2017

Thank you for voting for us!

Consignment Store for Kids Top 5 • Once Upon a Child (Scarsdale) * tie • Once Upon a Child (Somers) * tie • Affordables (Dobbs Ferry) • Baby Chic, A Consignment Boutique (Tarrytown) • The Preppy Turtle (Bedford) WINNER 2017

The Winner Once Upon a Child Somers and Scarsdale 914-621-0003 / 914-874-5535 onceuponachild.com Now with two Westchester locations! Parents report finding good bargains at this shop that buys and sells gently used children’s clothes, toys and equipment. If the store wants your items, they make you an offer and if you accept you walk out with cash the same day. See their website for rules and what they are buying.

414 Mamaroneck Ave., Mamaroneck, NY 10543

914•630•2858

Your online resource for all things parenting WestchesterFamily.com provides a rich array of local resources, useful content, directories and interactive tools to help families meet and celebrate the challenges of parenting.

Visit us online today!

WestchesterFamily.com

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

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Family Favorites 2017 Dentist for Kids

Pampering Place for Mom

Top 5 • Main Street Pediatric Dentistry (Tuckahoe) • Meyers & Nakisbendi Dental Associates (White Plains) • Valley Pediatric Dentistry (Jefferson Valley) • White Plains Pediatric Dental Group (White Plains) • Summerfield Pediatric Dentistry (Scarsdale)

Top 5 • Angelface Day Spa (Yorktown) • Bronxville Wellness Sanctuary (Bronxville) • Michael Robert Salon & Spa (Mohegan Lake) • Oasis Day Spa (Dobbs Ferry, NYC) • Tranquility Day Spa (Scarsdale) WINNER 2017

WINNER

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The pediatric dentists (Penny Resnick-Graulich, DMD, Fran Ceron, DDS, and Emelie Preis, DDS) and the staff at Main Street Pediatric Dentistry make going to the dentist fun and easy.

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Our readers say the pediatricians at Pediatrics on Hudson are winners.

2017

The Winner Main Street Pediatric Dentistry 115 Main St., Tuckahoe 914-633-4440 mainstreetpediatricdentistry.com Penny Resnick-Graulich, DMD, Francisca Ceron, DDS, Emele Preis, DDS, and a team of dental hygienists offer excellent dental care in a kidfriendly environment. The staff is trained in a variety of methods that put children at ease, making the visit pleasant for the child, parent and dentist. Warm the kids up before going by visiting their website and watching the kidfriendly videos and playing fun games.

Pediatrician Top 5 • Chester Pediatrics (White Plains) * tie • NY Presbyterian Group, Lawrence J. Baskind, M.D. • Pediatrics on Hudson (Hastings-on-Hudson) • Scarsdale Pediatric Associates (Scarsdale) ** tie • Tomahawk Farms Pediatrics (Somers) • Westchester Health, Nicholas Germanakos, M.D., Mt. Kisco * tie • West Med Pediatrics (New Rochelle, Rye, White Plains, Yonkers) ** tie WINNER 2017

By Donna Mueller

Donna Mueller captures your child in everyday moments and special holiday memories.

Eating out with kids is easy at California Pizza Kitchen.

26

Westchester Family | July 2017

The Winner Pediatrics on Hudson 615 Broadway, Hastings-on-Hudson 914-963-1663 pediatricsonhudson.com Board certified doctors and nurse practitioners have been serving families here for 25 years. Care is given to children ages birth to 21. They are affiliated with The Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of Columbia Presbyterian and Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at Westchester Medical Center. A complimentary prenatal or “meet and greet” appointment is available. Open six days a week.

The Winner Tranquility Spa 917 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-713-0066 tranquilityspa.com Moms can use a little pampering from time to time and our readers have selected Tranquility Spa as the place they’d most like to go. Who wouldn’t like a massage, a facial or any one of the special body treatments they offer. Hint: gift certificates are available.

Pet Shop Top 5 • Petco (Baldwin, Hartsdale, Larchmont, Mt. Kisco, Mt. Vernon, Port Chester, Yonkers) • PetSmart (Greenburgh, Mohegan Lake, Port Chester, Scarsdale, Yonkers) • Bird Jungle (Scarsdale) • Bark & Meow (Tarrytown) • Pet Goods (Scarsdale) WINNER 2017

The Winner Pet Goods 1125 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-472-6050 Whether you have a dog, cat, fish, bird, reptile or other small animal you can find something for them at this family-owned business that was started in 1979. They carry a wide range of food products including Blue Buffalo and Orijen Dog Food plus animal supplies and accessories. View their monthly Pet Goods Promotions on their website that lists specials and a variety of frequent buyer, reward points and discount programs.

Photographer (for Family or Child) Top 5 • Jamie Kilgore Photography (Katonah) • Donna Mueller Photography (Pleasantville) • Greg Perry, (Ossining) • Leila Sutton Photography (Croton-on-Hudson) • Venture Photography (Greenwich, CT) WINNER 2017

The Winner Donna Mueller Photography Pleasantville 914-980-2267 greatkeepsakes.com As a mom of three boys Mueller knows how important it is for families to have great photos of your kids as they grow and change.

Mueller photographs weddings, first communions and all manner of portraits. She also creates celebratory DVDs. Visit her online galley to see examples of her work.

Place to Dine with Children Top 5 • Applebee’s (Larchmont, Eastchester) • Brother Jimmy’s BBQ (White Plains) • California Pizza Kitchen (Scarsdale) • City Limits (White Plains) • Smash Burger (Cortlandt Manor, Mamaroneck, Scarsdale, White Plains)

Your child’s next report card can be a great one!

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MATH, READING, STUDY SKILLS, WRITING AND MORE!

WINNER 2017

The Winner California Pizza Kitchen 365 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-722-0600 cpk.com Parents say they enjoy dining out with the kids when they go to Califor­ nia Pizza Kitchen. The food is good and ample, there’s a kids’ menu, you never have to worry about parking and there’s a full bar. They even offer delivery and curb side service. What more could you want?

Pizza Top 5 • Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria (Yonkers) • Lucio’s Pizza, (Pleasantville) • Nonna’s Brick Oven Pizzeria (Peekskill) • Pizza Mia (Eastchester) • Sal’s Pizzeria (Mamaroneck) WINNER 2017

The Winner Pizza Mia 9 Mill Road, Eastchester 914-793-0333 Some 18 Specialty Pizzas plus the traditional small, large, extralarge and Sicilian are served up daily. The menu also includes appetizers, salads, soups, pasta, hot and cold wedges, calzones and full dinners. Delivery is available.

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

27

Ask the Specialist //

Orthodontics It’s Not Just About Strightening Teeth

By Merissa Blais, DDS

C

an you believe that you might need to be taught how to breathe properly?

And that by not doing so, your overall health could be impacted? Did you ever think that your child’s craniofacial development would be poorly influenced by not breathing properly?

Who thought that something our bodies do involuntarily would require such practice? It turns out that the shape, size and functionality of our airways plays an integral role in how our faces develop – which, in turn, helps establish an overall level of wellness as a child and as an adult.

Modern Habits and How Form Follows Function Let’s begin by thinking about how our early ancestors functioned. They had wide, broad jaws, balanced profiles and could fit all 32 teeth in their mouths. They did not have crowding or malocclusions. Their facial form was a result of how they functioned.

Over the course of thousands of years, however, the introduction of new environmental stressors has changed the way our bodies function and develop. Here’s an example: over time, our diet has softened with the introduction of sugar, refined foods and additives. This shift away from raw, whole foods that require masticatory (chewing) effort has led to smaller jaws, smaller airways, crooked teeth and breathing compensations.

Poor posture and hanging our heads over phones for hours a day further feed into the need for breathing compensations.

Our 21st century faces, and the extraordinary demand for orthodontics in more than 80 percent of the population, are the result of changes to how we breathe due to environmental stressors. As a fellow colleague explains, “the changing shape of the face is a function of soft-tissue dysfunction.” Crooked teeth are a symptom of a larger issue. It’s the soft-tissue dysfunction (the position of the tongue, oral habits, mouth breathing, snoring) that is creating the need for orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.

What Does This All Mean?

First, we must understand the extent to which

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Westchester Family | July 2017

the decreased function of our jaw muscles and improper positioning of our tongues can adversely affect facial form. It’s a cycle – the jaw muscles and the tongue work against you when you don’t make them work for you!

Look around more closely and you may see breathing compensations in action. Is someone close to you experiencing interrupted sleep or regularly snores? Does your child routinely breathe through her mouth? Have you ever noticed a “low tongue posture” (the tongue sitting on the teeth instead of the roof of the mouth)? Does someone you care about speak with a lisp or swallow with his tongue in a forward position? These are all indicators of a small airway.

What does our appearance end up looking like when the tongue is not on the palate and our lips are apart when we breathe? We see longer faces, dark circles under our eyes due to a poor airway, upper and lower jaws that are small and set back, all of which create a convex profile (“no chin”) and possibly tooth crowding. It may also appear as if we have “buck teeth” and a huge overbite. But that is because our small upper jaw is adversely positioning the lower jaw down and back, instead of down and forward.

Imbalanced jaws are stuck in a growth pattern that only worsens over time, all the while impeding airway space – not a good thing for your child.

Lips Closed, Breathe Through Your Nose We want our upper jaw to be wide and our lower jaw to come forward so that our airway functions properly. Our bodies are programmed to grow the jaws down and for-

ward, but only under the proper environmental circumstances. I like to tell my daughter: “Lips closed, breath through your nose!” This practice ensures that her tongue is properly positioned on the roof of her mouth and can create a nice, wide upper jaw, acting as a “scaffolding” for all the permanent teeth.

As parents, we all aim to raise happy, healthy, thriving children.

Your orthodontist, pediatric dentist and pediatrician should not be waiting until “all the permanent teeth have fallen out” to start treatment. We should be looking at tonsils and adenoids, breathing habits, sleep patterns and diets – all from infancy.

Orthodontics is not just about straightening teeth. It’s about creating beautiful, balanced faces that allow proper airflow and, in turn, promote overall health and wellness by eliminating soft-tissue dysfunction. Don’t hesitate to consult your orthodontist to determine if early intervention can help your child breathe, look and function better.

Merissa Blais, DDS is the owner of Blais Orthodontics, PC, located in the village of Scarsdale. She received high honors from Columbia University School of Dental Medicine and completed her residency in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at the University of Pennsylvania, training in both early intervention orthodontics and adult orthodontics. She is a graduate of Wesleyan University. Blais recognizes the importance of guiding healthy growth and development to create stable, functional bites, beautiful faces and healthy and happy patients! She treats both children and adults. blaisortho.com. #lovethewayyousmile

Orthodontists and Pediatric Dentists Guide // Special Advertising Supplement Blais Orthodontics 2 Overhill Road, #300, Scarsdale 914-472-9595, Blaisortho.com Merissa Blais, DDS, is a Columbia and University of Pennsylvania trained Orthodontist, specializing in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics: braces, clear braces, Invisalign and TMJD treatment. She sees young patients starting at age 7 through adulthood. Blais works closely with her patients and families to create a “home away from home” environment putting even the most apprehensive patients at ease. She ensures that you feel comfortable and relaxed; in between creating gorgeous smiles and great bites, there’s always time to laugh! #lovethewayyousmile Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry 325 South Highland Ave, Briarcliff Manor 914-762-4151, briarcliffpediatricdentistry.com Their practice is geared towards providing comprehensive pediatric dentistry for infants, children and adolescents, and patients with special needs. Their mission is to provide the highest level of oral care possible for your child, using evidence-based dentistry and current technology, along with the most effective and gentlest techniques, to ensure the healthy smile of your child! Their modern state-of-the-art office is filled with fun-filled activities, games and toys to make your child’s visit enjoyable and memorable.

Main Street Pediatric Dentistry 115 Main St., Tuckahoe 914-633-4440, mainstreetpediatriocdentistry.com Chosen as one of Westchester’s Top Pediatric Dentists year after year for uncompromising care, Penny Resnick-Graulich, DMS, Fran Ceron, DDS, Emelie Preis, DDS, and their well-trained, nurturing staff at Main Street Pediatric Dentistry treats children of all ages, including special needs.

They use the “Tell, Show, Do” method so that nothing is scary. In fact, designed to look like the inside of a submarine, their offices offer a fun atmosphere your kids will love! Think Disneyland meets the dentist!

Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry A visit to the dentist can be like a day at the beach

What Makes Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry Unique? Truly unparalleled care • Great News! We now have extended hours, added in more days and accept most major insurances!

• Experts in Laser Dentistry; No Shots, No Drills • Tongue and Lip Tie Releases • Evening and Saturday Appointments available 914-762-4151 | briarcliffpediatricdentistry.com 325 South Highland Ave. | Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510

• Child-friendly environment and caring staff • Special needs welcomed • State-of-the-art technology and sterilization techniques • Game Rooms, Theater with large-screen TV • Serving the community for over 25 years

WINNER 2017

Voted one of Westchester’s Top Pediatric Dentists

Penny Resnick Graulich, D.M.D. Francisca Ceron, D.D.S. Emelie Preis, D.D.S. 115 Main Street, Suite 302, Tuckahoe, NY 10707 (914) 633-4440 MainStreetPediatricDentistry.com July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

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Let's Go To ... //

When You Go ...

Croton Gorge Park

By Kate Angel

C

roton Gorge Park is one of my most favorite places to spend a day when the weather is nice. As you enter the park, you will see the impressive cascading waters of Croton Dam. We like to take our bikes, a picnic and shoes we don’t mind getting wet so that we can spend the whole day.

Croton Gorge Park 35 Yorktown Road Croton-on-Hudson 827-9568 http://parks.westchestergov.com/croton • There is a small entrance fee; with a New York Park Pass entry is $5 or without a pass $10 a car for the entire day.

• The grounds and picnic area is stroller friendly, but the hiking trails are not, so a carrier is preferable for very small children.

• Don’t forget the bug spray and tick spray and check yourselves and your children for ticks after hiking.

• Dogs must remain on a leash and are not allowed in the picnic area.

• The park is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to dusk.

There are smooth, flat rocks that allow you to get up close to the falls and dunk your toes in the crisp, cool water. My daughter brought her dinosaurs to take a dip and had a blast splashing in the shallow pools at the base of the gorge.

Kate Angel

The impressive cascading water of Croton Gorge Park.

With 97 acres of green space, there is no shortage of things to explore and there is plenty of space for your family to spread out and stretch their legs.

The lush green picnic area has a huge lawn, lots of picnic tables, a public bathroom and a small playground. You can choose to spread out on a blanket under one of the large trees or at one of the picnic tables that overlook the falls. There were people throwing Frisbees, playing kickball and hiking around the huge tranquil space that this park offers.

Kate Angel

Plan to picnic and linger under the huge trees on the lush green lawn.

There are a couple of trails to choose from for hiking and exploring. If you follow the paved road you drove in on and go below the small bridge, next to the parking area, you will see an unmarked path that leads you down to the front of the falls.

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Westchester Family | July 2017

Kate Angel

The smooth, flat rocks allow you to get up close to the falls and dunk your toes in the crisp, cool water.

The other trail leads to the top of the damn and to the bridge that spans the Croton River and overlooks the whole gorge and reservoir. The views are stunning. We chose to walk our bikes to the top of the gorge so that we could ride them back and forth overlooking everything. The trail to the top is steep, but it’s short and is very doable for any age or ability. My 4-year-old could hike it with no problem.

After you have explored the park and gotten your fill of exercise and hiking, there are plenty of places nearby for a sweet treat.

My family absolutely loves The Blue Pig, located at 121 Maple Street in Croton-on-Hudson. Their homemade ice cream is quite delicious on a hot summer’s day! This small ice cream shop is privately owned and the ingredients are locally sourced and free of anything that does not come from nature, which is perfect after an excursion in the outdoors. They have very eclectic flavors and you will find that everything is in season.

Kate Randall was born and raised in New York, she has lives in Hopewell Junction with her daughter, husband and their chickens. She is a graduate of SUNY Albany with a degree in Linguistics and Latin American Studies. She enjoys flip-flops all year round and traveling.

HUDSON COUNTRY DAY CAMP Where Exploration Leads To Discovery

• Experienced Staff • Year round program • Flexible Scheduling (2 week minimum • full day & half day)

• Ages 18 months -12 years • Swimming Instruction (in-ground pool on premises)

• Sports, Science and Creative Development

340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle, NY 10804 • 914-636-6202 www.hudsoncountry.org • mrs.mcculler@hudsoncountry.org.

Jewish Learning Experience It’s NOT Your Parents’ Hebrew School!

Building Jewish identity through Jewish values.

Creating differentiated Jewish learning for all types of learners.

Grades K-3 meet Sunday mornings, beginning September 10.

Grades 4-7 meet Wednesday afternoons and Sunday mornings, beginning September 6.

First Hebrew Congregation

1821 Main Street, Route 6 On the border of Cortlandt & Peekskill Contact Rabbi Dana: 914-739-0500 rabbi@firsthebrew.org Visit www.firsthebrew.org July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

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Westchester Family | July 2017

Calendar

July

By Susan Goldberg

Colorful and intriguing, flamingos are on display at the Maritime Aquarium this month.

Flamingos Funny. flamboyant, and pretty in pink – flamingos are an intriguing species and they’re on display for a summertime exhibit at the Aquarium. Daily, 10am–6pm; July 1 – Sept. 4.

For all ages. $22.95 adults, $15.95 children. Reservations not required.

Maritime Aquarium, 10 North Water St., Norwalk, Conn. 203–852–0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

Courtesy Photo

Calendar What’s Inside Editor’s Pick: Butterflies

36

Editor’s Pick: Katonah Museum’s Family Day 38 Light Up the Sky: Firework Displays

40

Connecticut Corner

41

City Picks

42

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

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Calendar July //

1 Saturday

Around the World: Creative Kids. This month, the Museum explores the countries of South America, letting kids learn about Juego de Pelota (ball games).

Have fun exploring traditional Ecuadorian sports and create your own equipment during the craft workshop. 2–3pm. For children ages 2 and up. Free with museum admission: $15. Reservations not required. Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk, Conn. 203–899–0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

Classic Mansion Tours. This one hour tour is perfect for firsttime visitors to Lyndhurst. See the sumptuous Victorian architecture, the décor and European paintings. Be sure to explore Lyndhurst’s 67 acres of beautifully kept grounds. Thursdays – Sundays, 10am–4pm. For all ages. $16.

Reservations required. Lyndhurst Mansion, 635 S. Broadway, Tarrytown. 914–631–4481. lyndhurst.org.

Family Studio Projects.

On weekend days in July, junior docents and professional educators lead art and science projects.

Sundays’ art programs feature printing patterns; Saturdays’ science workshops teach how to view the eclipse coming in August. Kids also make a model of the sun and may look through the Museum’s solar telescope.

Saturdays and Sundays, 1–4pm, July 1 – July 30. For all ages. $6 adults, $3 youth. Reservations not required. The Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers.

Photo Courtesy of NBC Universal

Tim Kubert and the Space Cadets are musical dynamos at the Paramount Hudson Valley on July 9.

914–963–4550. hrm.org.

Flamingos. See page 33..

Flowering Art. See July 15.

Grasshopper Grove. The Museum’s outdoor Nature Play Area is a unique outdoor play space, open on weekends through mid-November. Saturdays and Sundays, 10am–4pm. For children

ages 2-6. $3. Reservations not required. Hudson Highlands Nature Museum, Muser Drive across from 174 Angola Rd., Cromwell, Cornwall.

845–534–5506, ext. 204. hhnaturemuseum.org.

Live Butterfly Exhibit. See Editors Pick page 36.

A Night on Fire. The fire juggling and comedy troupe

extraordinaire, A Different Spin comes to Sleepy Hollow with a fun and dramatic show featuring flame-wielding, fire-eating performers. It’s a jaw dropping evening combining humor, danger and spectacle. 8 and 9:30pm July 1; 8pm July 2. For all ages. $22 adults, $16 children. Reservations required. Philipsburg Manor, 381 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow.

914–631–8200. hudsonvalley.org.

Look for our complete calendar of events and activities online at WestchesterFamily.com.

Submissions

Send all calendar submissions via: • Email: calendar@westchesterfamily.com. Fax: 914-462-3311. Include: Dates, times, location with address, age recommendation, cost, public telephone number and Web site address. • Information to be considered for the September 2017 calendar must reach us

by July 31, 2017. • If you miss our print deadline, submit your event directly to our online calendar at WestchesterFamily.com. Click the “Post Your Own Event” link beneath the calendar on our home page. Online postings appear on the Web in approximately 48 hours after submission. Please call ahead to confirm dates, times and locations of all events.

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Westchester Family | July 2017

If you think something is wrong with this picture, you should see what’s being served up in stores.

Tobacco companies spend billions on colorful signs, special discounts and promotions in stores where kids can see them. And the more kids see tobacco, the more likely they are to start smoking.

It’s time for tobacco marketing to hit the road.

Tobacco companies place most of their advertising in stores where

75

% OF

TEENS

shop at least once per week

Take action now at SeenEnoughTobacco.org facebook.com/TobaccoFreeNYS

@TobaccoFreeNYS

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

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Calendar July // Pack Chat for Kids. A great introduction to wolves for families with young children, kids learn about the mythology surrounding wolves and learn about their important role in the natural world!

Guests can visit with Ambassador wolves Atka, Alawa, Zephyr and more. For all ages. Reservations required. 2pm today and July 8, 15, 22 and 29; 11am July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. $14 adult, $11 children. Wolf Conservation Center.

914–753–2373. nywolf.org.

Editor’s Pick

Westchester Children’s Museum. Turn your kids loose in this dynamic learning environment featuring 6,000-square-feet of interactive, hands-on exhibits for children including a beachthemed Toddler Zone, KEVA Planks construction exhibit, the Build Your Own Roller Coaster exhibit and two Makerspaces. For all ages. Reservations not required.

Wednesdays – Sundays, 10am– 4pm, through July 30. For all ages. $7. Reservations not required.

Westchester Children’s Museum, Boardwalk Galleries, Rye Playland, Rye. 914–421–5050. discoverWCM.org.

PepsiCo Sculpture Gardens. See July 16.

Philipsburg Manor. Visitors tour the 300-year-old house, participate in hands-on activities of the 19th century, see the working gristmill and learn about the lives of the Manor’s former inhabitants.

Wednesdays – Sundays, timed tours begin at 10:30am. For all ages. $12 adults, $6 children. Reservations not required. Philipsburg Manor, 381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow. 914–631–8200. hudsonvalley.org.

2 Sunday

Pirate Quest. See July 8.

See butterflies up close at the Greenburgh Nature Center this month.

Planetarium Show: We Are Aliens. This Planetarium show helps kids learn how different life forms - from tiny microbes to humans to massive whales - all connect to form Habitat Earth.

Saturdays and Sundays, 3:30pm, July 1 – July 30. For ages 8 and up. $6 adults, $3 youth. Reservations not required. The Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914–963–4550. hrm.org.

Butterflies. This summer, for a limited time, visitors can enjoy close encounters with live butterflies in a special exhibit. Take a good look at these colorful creatures and learn about their role in nature. One may even land on you! Saturdays – Thursdays, 10am–3pm, July 1 – Aug. 6. For all ages. $11 adults, $9 children.

Reservations not required. Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd., Scarsdale. 914–723–3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Pops, Patriots and Fireworks. See Light up the Sky page 40.

For all ages. Admission for rides: $30 adults, $20 juniors. Spectators pass (no rides) $10. Reservations not required. Rye Playland, 1 Playland Park, Rye. 914–813–7000. ryeplayland.org.

Rye Playland. One of the nation’s oldest amusement parks welcomes visitors to enjoy over 50 rides and attractions, including five roller coasters. Young visitors can have gentle fun in Kiddyland, while the more adventurous can enjoy thrill rides. Check website for hours throughout the season.

Tuesdays – Sundays, until Aug. 31.

Stone Barns Weekend.

Through November, Stone Barns requires the purchase of a one-day admission ticket on weekends. This allows visitors to participate in seasonal, handson activities, and drop in tours.

Admission is free during the week, although there is a charge for certain weekday events. Check

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Westchester Family | July 2017

son River are not to be missed.

Wednesdays – Fridays, 10:30am– 3:30pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10am–3:30pm. For all ages. $12 adults, $6 children. Reservations required. Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, 3 Sunnyside Lane, Irvington.

914–631–8200. hudsonvalley.org.

website for full schedule. Saturdays and Sundays, 10am–5pm.

For all ages. $20 adults. Weekend tickets sell out; it’s recommended to purchase in advance. Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, 630 Bedford Rd., Pocantico Hills. 914–366–6200. stonebarnscenter.org.

Washington Irving’s Sunnyside. Guides dressed in 1800s garb lead tours around this elegant estate, which was the home of noted author Washington Irving. The mansion, the beautiful grounds and the view of the Hud-

Float Like a Butterfly. Take a short walk with a naturalist to a find a magical world in the butterfly arbor! Learn about the life cycle and epic migration of Monarchs and see these beautiful creatures up close. 1pm. For all ages. $11 adults, $9 children.

Reservations not required. Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd., Scarsdale. 914–723–3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. This annual celebration of the Bard’s work features two of Shakespeare’s much-loved plays (Twelfth Night and Love’s Labour’s Lost) plus Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, as well as The Book of Will - a mostly true look backstage at The Globe Theater. Check website for schedule.

Daily through July 30. For adults and chlildren ages 5 and up. $21.75-$69.75 adults, $15.75-$40 children. Reservations required.

Boscobel, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison.

845–809–5750. hudsonvalleyshakespeare.org.

Marine Life Study Cruises.

Take a boat ride on the Long Island Sound to get a close-up look at an amazing variety of fish, crabs, mollusks and other creatures. Aquarium educators put participants to work collecting and examining sea animals brought up in the catamaran’s trawl net. Anyone under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Cruises run most days in July (no cruises July 1, 6-10, 15, 18 and 25); check website to confirm schedule. Guests must be 42” tall to board. $29.95. Reservations required. Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, Conn, Conn.

203–852–0700. maritimeaquarium. org.

A Night on Fire. See July 1.

Independence Day Celebration. A traditional 4th of July celebration featuring music, speeches, tasty treats and a reading of the Declaration of Independence. Hear the historic church’s bell toll for independence. 10:30am. For all ages. Reservations not required. St Paul’s Church N.H.S. 897 S. Columbus Ave., Mt. Vernon. nps.gov/sapa.

July 4th on Peekskill Riverfront. See Light Up the Sky page 40.

Macy’s Fireworks. See City Picks page 42.

Mamaroneck Fireworks Display. See Light up the Sky page 40.

Pirate Quest. See July 8.

Story Walk. Visitors read the story Deer Mouse at Old Farm Road by Laura Gates Galvin as they walk along a short hiking trail. The perfect marriage of nature and literature. Sundays, 10am–4:30pm, beginning July 2. For all ages. Reservations not required. Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd., Scarsdale.

914–723–3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

3 Monday

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. See Connecticut Corner page 41.

Fireworks Cruises. See Light up the Sky page 40.

Music Fest and Fireworks.

See Light up the Sky page 40.

4 Tuesday

Fireworks Cruises. See Light up the Sky page 40.

Fireworks on the Beach.

See Connecticut Corner page 40.

Holiday Fireworks at Playland. See Light up the Sky page 40.

5 Wednesday

Concert Series at Hudson Park. Enjoy hot music and cool breezes off the Long Island Sound at the Hudson Park Band Shell free summer concerts. There’s an eclectic menu of music, with concerts featuring everything from hip-hop to jazz to opera and more. The first July concert features The Nat Osborn Band, a Brooklyn-based indie rock group. Check the website for the rest of the summer schedule.

Wednesdays, 7–9pm, through Aug. 30. For all ages. Reservations not required. Hudson Park, 1 Hudson Park Rd., New Rochelle.

914–654–2087. newrochellearts.org.

WINNER 2017

Dancing at Dusk: Hoedown in the USA. It’s a classic American hoedown so come enjoy square dancing and line dancing set to fiddle music! Kids learn the fellowship of country dancing and no partners are necessary. The performance is preceded by crafts for kids. 5pm. For all ages. $10 adult, $5 children. Reservations recommended. Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd., Katonah. 914–232–1252. caramoor.org.

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

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Calendar July // Flowering Art. See July 1.

Itsy Bitsy Playgroup.

A drop-in playgroup led by an early childhood and music specialist provides moms and babies with a chance to bond and have fun with music, gross motor play and more.

Wednesdays, 10:30–11:30am, July 5 – July 26. For moms and babies under 18 months old. Reservations not required. Temple Sholom, 300 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, Conn. 203–869–7191. templesholom.com.

Editor’s Pick

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre. See City Picks page 42.

6

Thursday

Madison Square Kids Concert. See City Picks page 42.

Museum Minis. Toddlers and parents or caregivers come to the museum for a session of songs, moving and lots of fun. Meet up in Toddler Beach to play, dance, sing and socialize. Group size is limited; first come first served.

Thursdays, 10:30–11am, through July 27. For ages 18-24 months with adult. Free with museum admission: $7. Reservations not required. Westchester Children’s Museum, Boardwalk Galleries, Rye Playland, Rye. 914–421–5050. discoverWCM.org.

Sunset Jazz Concert. Relax on Lyndhurst’s great lawn and enjoy cool music from the Rocky Middleton Sextet. Grounds open at 4pm; music starts at 6:30pm.

For all ages. Free admission to concert, $5 per person to park.

Reservations not required. Lyndhurst Mansion, 635 S. Broadway, Tarrytown. 914–631–4481. lyndhurst.org.

7 Friday

Family Farm Tour. Take a guided tour around the farm to check out the animals, grounds and greenhouses. Enjoy the seasonal wonders of Stone Barns.

11:15-noon today and every Friday

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Westchester Family | July 2017

Weaving and fun are the focus at the Katonah Museum’s Family Day on July 23.

Katonah Museum’s Family Day. Wonderful Weaving is the focus of the Museum’s Family Day, so come grab some yarn and create your own woven and hooked art pieces. Enjoy weaving demonstrations and dance to music that mimics the rhythmic motion of weaving during a wild and wooly day of fun. Noon– 4pm July 23. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. Katonah Museum of Art, 124 Jay St., Katonah. 914–232–9555. katonahmuseum.org.

through Nov. 17. Children must be accompanied by a ticketed adult.

For families with children ages 2 and up. $10. Reservations not required. Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, 630 Bedford Rd., Pocantico Hills. 914–366–6200. stonebarnscenter.org.

Graham Clarke’s Summer Fridays. Popular children’s musician Graham Clarke entertains kids with fun songs and silly humor in this summer series of library performances.

Arrive early to find parking; there is no admittance 10 minutes after the show begins. Fridays, 10am through Aug. 18. For ages 12 months and up. Reservations not required. Rye Free Reading Room, 1061 Boston Post Rd., Rye. 914–967–0480. ryelibrary.org.

Play Days at Jay. On Fridays through October, families are welcome to pack a picnic and spend the afternoon at the John Jay Homestead. Kids can explore the Discovery Centers and help volunteers collect eggs from the chicken coop. Starting at 1pm, the Education staff leads a short hands-on activity. Fridays, noon– 2pm. For all ages. Reservations not required. John Jay Homestead, 400 Jay St., Katonah. 914–666– 7004. johnjayhomestead.org.

8 Saturday

Grasshopper Grove. See June 1.

Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. See July 2.

Morning Farm Chores. Do

you have what it takes to be a farmer? Find out by helping with the morning chores on a working farm for a fun and enlightening experience. 8–10am. For ages 8 and up. $6 per person or $20 for a family of 4. Reservations required.

Muscoot Farm, 51 Rte. 100, Somers.

914–864–7286. parkswestchestergov.com.

Pleasantville Music Festival. Great music combines with the great outdoors in this annual music festival - so bring chairs and sunscreen while you enjoy artists like Blues Traveler, The Alpaca Gnomes and Suzanne Vega.

There are 3 stages, 18 bands and activities for kids. 11am–9pm. For all ages. $60 adults, $35 children.

Reservations suggested. Parkway Field, Marble Ave., Pleasantville. pleasantvillemusicfestival.com.

Pirate Quest. Arrrr you ready for fun? Pint-sized pirates have swashbuckling fun as they hunt through Philipsburg Manor’s historic grounds for precious cargo, tattoos, sword fights and other pirate adventures. Saturdays and Sundays, 9:30–10:30am, July 1 – Aug. 27. Recommended for ages 5-8. $14 adults, $8 children.

Reservations not required. Philipsburg Manor, 381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow. 914–631–8200. hudsonvalley.org.

Planetarium Show: We Are Aliens. See July 1.

Stone Barns Weekend. See July 1.

9 Sunday

Pack Chat for Kids. See July 1.

Polish Heritage Festival. Celebrate the culture of Polish Americans with live performances, dance, cultural exhibits and ethnic food. There are fun activities for kids and the event is held rain or shine. Noon– 6pm. For all ages. Reservations not required. Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway Rd., Valhalla.

914–964–7275. parks.westchester-

gov.com.

Randy Newman Performs.

Randy Newman performs the songs that have made him a wellloved performer for many years.

Hear the hits from his albums and famous film scores. 7pm. For all ages. $58-$138. Reservations required. Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St., Tarrytown. 914–631–3390. tarrytownmusichall.org.

Rye Playland. See July 1.

Science Sundays: Creative Creatures. Have fun with kid-friendly experiments and crafts inspired by the Museum’s collections. 1–3pm today and July 30. For children ages 4 and up. $10 adults, $8 children. Reservations not required. Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Dr., Greenwich, Conn.

203–869–0376. brucemuseum. org.

Story Walk. See July 2.

Tim Kubert and the Sapce Cadets. A sandbox is fun, but what kids really want is an indie pop dance party! Tim Kubert, along with his band, the Space Cadets, performs musically rich, child-friendly songs with warmth and a spirit of fun. 1pm and 4pm.

For all ages. $23. Reservations suggested. Paramount Hudson Valley, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill.

914–739–0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com.

10 Monday

Outdoor Movies at Ridge Hill. Grab popcorn and a blanket and enjoy free outdoor movies in Ridge Hill’s Town Square. There are also fun, pre-film family activities. July 10: Moana; July 24: Toy Story; August 7: Back to the Future. 7pm activities; film at sunset. For all ages. Reservations not required.

Ridge Hill Shopping Center, 1 Ridge Hill Blvd., Yonkers. 914–207–2900. ridgehill.com.

Riverfront Children’s Evenings. Children enjoy fun

outdoor activities on select Monday evenings this summer. Each week has a special performer so check the schedule to see if there’s a clown, a mad scientist or a storyteller planned. In case of rain, the evening’s entertainment is moved to the Ford Administration Building (1031 Elm St.) Mondays, 7–8pm, July 10 – Aug. 17. For all ages. Reservations not required. Riverfront Green, 5 Hudson Ave., Peekskill. 914–734–7275. cityofpeekskill.com.

A High Note Above the Rest!

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Experienced, nuturing teachers Music, movement and friends Age-specific curriculum Fun-filled classes

11 Tuesday

Bruce Beginnings. Pick a time - there are drop in sessions for kids and parents Tuesday mornings and afternoons! Explore the collections and exhibits through picture books and hands-on activities. Topics change every week. 11–11:45am and 1–1:45 pm today, July 18 and July 25. For children ages 2-5.5 with adult. $10 adults, $8 children. Reservations not required. Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Dr., Greenwich, Conn.

203–869–0376. brucemuseum. org.

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Marine Life Study Cruises.

See July 2.

12 Wednesday

Concert Series at Hudson Park. See July 5.

Itsy Bitsy Playgroup. See July 5.

Backyard Concert. Head to the Museum’s Sculpture Garden to turn ho-hum Wednesdays into nights of garage band fun. Dog Bone entertains today; Sir Cadian Rhythm is the featured band on July 19. Doors open 6pm; concert begins 7pm today and July 19. For all ages. $20. Reservations recommended. Katonah Museum of Art, 124 Jay St., Katonah. 914–232–9555. katonahmuseum.org.

13 Thursday

Museum Minis. See July 6.

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Calendar July // Philipsburg Manor. See July 1.

Victory Summer Dance. See City Picks page 42.

Light Up the Sky

14 Friday

Family Farm Tour. See July 7.

Marine Life Study Cruises.

See July 2.

Graham Clarke’s Summer Fridays. See July 7.

Play Days at Jay. See July 7.

15 Saturday

Aldrich Third Saturday. On the third Saturday of every month, the Aldrich offers a free family workshop. Kids create art inspired by the works in the galleries. 10am-3pm. For all ages. Reservations not required.

Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, 258 Main St., Ridgefield, Conn.

203–438–4519. aldrichart.org.

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. See Connecticut Corner page 41.

Creature Feature Weekend.

The creatures that are featured this weekend are slithery ones as the museum presents its “Reptile Roundup.” Visitors meet a reptile and learn all about their special attributes. 1 and 2:30pm today - July 16. For ages 3 and up. $3. Reservations not required.

Hudson Highland Nature Museum, 25 Boulevard, Cornwall on Hudson.

845–534–5506, ext. 204. hhnm.org.

Family Studio Projects. See July 1.

Flowering Art. You can almost smell the art at the Hudson River Museum this summer, thanks to the floral beauty of two different exhibits featuring flowers. Come see what’s blooming in Yonkers.

Wednesdays – Sundays, noon– 5pm, July 1 – Sept. 17. For all ages. $6 adults, $3 youth. Reservations not required. The Hudson River

40

Westchester Family | July 2017

Photo by Clifford Pickett

Caramoor’s Independence Day fireworks light up the sky on July 1.

Fireworks Cruises. Enjoy a water view of local holiday firework displays on special outings aboard the Aquarium’s Spirit of the Sound. The cruise offers views of both the fireworks and their reflections on the water. 7:30–11pm July 3, 7-11pm July 4. Passengers must be 42 inches tall to board. $75. Reservations strongly recommended. Maritime Aquarium, 10 North Water St., Norwalk, Conn.

203–852–0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

Mamaroneck Fireworks Display. It’s an Independence Day tradition, so bring a chair or a blanket and come see the Fourth of July fireworks display. The show starts at dark. 9:30pm July 4.

For all ages. Free (parking fees may apply). Reservations not required - arrive early for parking.

Harbor Island Park, Boston Post Rd. and Mamaroneck Ave., Mamaroneck. 914–777–7784. village. mamaroneck.ny.us.

Holiday Fireworks at Playland. In honor of Independence Day, Playland is putting on a show with fireworks choreographed to patriotic music. The fun takes place on the pier. Admission and parking fees apply. 9:30–10pm July 4. For all ages. $30 adults, $20 children, $10 spectator (no rides). Reservations not required. (There are also fireworks every Friday night from July 7-Sept.1, Check website for details). Rye Playland, 1 Playland Park, Rye. 914–813–7010. playlandpark.org.

Music Fest and Fireworks. Celebrate Independence Day weekend with a music fest at the Kensico Dam! There is family-friendly entertainment, followed by a concert of American favorites, followed by a firework display. Bring blankets and chairs and try to carpool. Entertainment begins at 6pm, music at 8; fireworks at 9:15. July 3. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway Rd., Valhalla. 914–231–4033. parks.westchestergov.com.

July 4th on Peekskill Riverfront. Celebrate Independence Day in an outdoor setting with a beautiful view, and contemporary American music followed by a firework show. An AllAmerican evening of fun! In the event of rain, the performance moves indoors to Peekskill Middle School, 212 Ringgold Street. 7–9pm July 4. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. Riverfront Green, 5 Hudson Ave., Peekskill. 914–734–7275. cityofpeekskill.com.

Pops, Patriots and Fireworks. Get an early start on your Independence Day celebration at this concert featuring patriotic music to honor the stars and stripes. The music ends with a bang as fireworks explode to Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture.

8pm July 1. For all ages. $30-$85. Reservations required. Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd., Katonah. 914–232–1252. caramoor.org.

Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914–963–4550. hrm.org.

Imagination Movers. Live on stage for one show only: Imagination Movers, a high energy singing group that kids find endlessly amusing. Their TV show wins Emmys and their music wins fans.

3pm. For all ages. $23. Reservations suggested. Paramount Hudson Valley, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill.

914–739–0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com.

Connecticut Corner

16 Sunday

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. See Connecticut Corner page 41.

Hispanic Heritage Festival. Today’s festivities celebrate the culture of Hispanic Americans with live performances, dance, cultural exhibits and ethnic food. There are fun activities for kids and the event is held rain or shine. Noon–7pm. For all ages. Reservations not required.

Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway Rd., Valhalla. 914–964– 7275. parks.westchestergov.com.

Grasshopper Grove. See June 1.

Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. See July 2.

Pack Chat for Kids. See July 1.

PepsiCo Sculpture Gardens. The creatively landscaped garden on the grounds of the PepsiCo campus is the site of a wonderful collection of the works of major twentieth century artists.

After being closed for renovations, this beautiful Sculpture Garden is once again open to the public! Saturdays and Sundays, 10am–4pm. For all ages. Reservations not required. PepsiCo Sculpture Garden, 700 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase. 914–253–3150. pepsico.com Pirate Quest. See July 8.

Story Walk. See July 2.

17 Monday

Museum Insiders Club.

Teens get to know the Museum from top to bottom in this weeklong art-making adventure. There are different creative projects and gallery activities every day - sign up for one day or the whole week.

Pack a lunch. 9:30am–3pm, today – July 21. For ages 12-16. $60 per day or $275 for the week. Pre-paid registration required. Katonah Museum of Art, 124 Jay St., Katonah.

914–232–9555. katonahmuseum.org.

Riverfront Children’s Evenings. See July 10.

18 Tuesday

Bruce Beginnings. See July 11.

Courtesy Photo

See exotic animals every day at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. Cartography Camp. The Museum is sponsoring a week long mini-camp that lets kids explore the art of mapmaking. Children learn how modern mapping is used today. The camp experience includes several off-site walking excursions to map Danbury’s Main Street. 9-11:30am July 24 – July 28. For children entering Grade 1 to Grade 8. $25 per camper. Reservations not required. Danbury Museum and Historical Society. 203–743–5200. danburymuseum.org.

Choir! Choir! Choir! Choir! Choir! Choir! is a singing group with a unique performance idea: the audience is taught an original arrangement of a popular song and they become the choir. It’s like a flash mob for singers! 8pm July 31. For all ages. $35. Reservations not required. Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge, Ridgefield, Conn. 203–438–5795. ridgefieldplayhouse.org.

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. Connecticut’s only zoo features 300 animals including some rarely seen species such as Siberian tigers, a Brazilian ocelot and Golden Lion tamarins. Other highlights are a South American rain forest exhibit and a carousel.

Daily, 9am–4pm; July 1 – July 31. For all ages. $15 adults, $12 children. Reservations not required. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, Conn. 203–394–6565. beardsleyzoo.com.

Fireworks on the Beach. Feel the sand between your toes as you watch the sky light up! Pack a picnic and watch the show as fireworks are launched from a barge offshore. 9:15pm July 4. Rain date July 5. For all ages. $40 parking for non-residents.

Reservations not required - recommended to come early. Bayley Beach, 11 Pine Point Rd., Norwalk, Conn. rowaytoncurrents.com.

Museum Insiders Club. See July 17.

19 Wednesday

Backyard Concert. See July 12.

Concert Series at Hudson Park. See July 5.

Dancing at Dusk: Celebrating Mexico. It’s a casual evening of music and outdoor family dancing with a focus on Mexico.

The Calpulli Mexican Dance Company leads families in fun and easy to follow Mexican dance moves, following craft activities for kids. 5pm. For all ages. $10 adult, $5 children. Reservations recommended. Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd., Katonah. 914–232–1252. caramoor.org.

Itsy Bitsy Playgroup. See July 5.

Museum Insiders Club. See July 17.

20 Thursday

Museum Insiders Club. See July 17.

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

41

Calendar July // Museum Minis. See July 6.

City Picks

Victory Summer Dance. See City Picks page 42.

21 Friday

Family Farm Tour. See July 7.

Graham Clarke’s Summer Fridays. See July 7.

Museum Insiders Club. See July 17.

Play Days at Jay. See July 7.

Shabbat on the Sound. Families are invited to join Temple Sholom at Tod’s Point for an outdoor Shabbat concert.

Bring a chair or blanket and pack a dairy or vegetarian picnic. Parking has been arranged and a beach pass is not needed. 5pm. For all ages. Reservations required.

RSVP to alice.schoen@templesholom.com. Tod’s Point Beach, 6 Tod’s Driftway, Greenwich, Conn.

203–869–7191. templesholom. com.

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. Westmoreland’s outdoor theater is the site of a special, interactive performance of the timeless favorite You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown.

The audience gets to toast marshmallows after the show!

6:30pm today and July 28; 2 and 6:30pm July 22 and 29; 3pm July 23 and 30. For all ages. $22 adults, $15 children. Reservations required. Westmoreland Sanctuary, 260 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Mount Kisco. 914–666–8448. westmorelandsanctuary.org.

Photo courtesy of Madison Square Conservancy

Joanie Leeds performs in Madison Square Park on July 6.

Macy’s Fireworks. The nation’s largest Independence Day fireworks show dazzles the shorelines of Manhattan. The best viewing of this spectacular display are elevated portions of the FDR Drive and Brooklyn Bridge Park. See website for details. 9pm July 4. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. East River. 212–494–4495. macys.com/fireworks.

Madison Square Kids Concert. A favorite with kids, musical artist Joanie Leeds is well known for her child-friendly songs, including the award-winning hit “I am a Rock Star.” Joanie is appearing with her band, The Nightlights in Madison Square Park, a lovely green space in the center of Manhattan. 11:30am July 6. For all ages.

FREE. Reservations not required. Madison Square Park, Between 5th and Madison Avenues, from 23rd to 26th Street, New York. 212–520–7600. madisonsquarepark.org.

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre.

The Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre stages innovative marionette productions based on

children’s classics. Now showing in this Central Park theater: The Princess, The Emperor and the Duck, a modern retelling of three classic tales

by Hans Christian Andersen. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

The schedule varies; check website for times.

Daily, July 5 – July 31. For all ages. $12 adults, $8 children. Reservations not required. Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre, Central Park, 79th Street and West Side Drive, New York. 877–987–6487. cityparksfoundation.org.

Victory Summer Dance. Every summer, Victory Dance celebrates the artistry and diversity of the New York City dance world with affordable performances specially geared to young audiences. The July Program features internationally recognized dance companies presenting dynamic and personal choreographed works. The shows take place at The Duke, just down the block from the New Victory Theater. 7pm July 13 and 20. For ages 8 and over. $10. Reservations required. The Duke on 42nd Street, 229 West 42nd St. New York.

646–223–3010. newvictory.org.

22 Saturday

Brady Rymer and the Little Band That Could. Brady Rymer makes infectious, high energy rock and roll for kids and families. Don’t miss this Grammy winning artist’s dynamic and fun live show. 11am and 3pm. For all ages. $23. Reservations suggested. Paramount Hudson Valley, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill. 914–739–0039.

42

Westchester Family | July 2017

paramounthudsonvalley.com.

Family Art Project: Spray a Watercolor Garden. Paint the colors of summer into a garden painting made without brushes.

Combine mists of watercolors with paper flowers to create a blooming vision. 10am–1pm

today -July 23. For all ages. Free 7/22; free with admission 7/23 ($8 adult, $2 children). Reservations not required. Wave Hill Garden and Cultural Center, 675 West 252nd St. 718–549–3200. wavehill. org.

Family Fun Day. Stay cool

and have fun with a day of deejay music, games and family activities throughout the afternoon. Rain date July 23. Noon–4pm. For all ages. $15 per person, $10 parking. Reservations not required.

Tibbetts Brook Pool, 355 Midland Ave., Yonkers. 914–231–2865. parks. westchestergov.com.

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43

Calendar July // Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. See July 2.

Pack Chat for Kids. See July 1.

Pirate Quest. See July 8.

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre. See City Picks page 42.

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. See July 21.

23 Sunday

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. See Connecticut Corner page 42.

Family Gallery Tour. Don’t just browse - families can dig a little deeper and learn more about the gallery exhibits during interactive tours led by Museum educators. 11:30am–12:15pm today and July 30. For children ages 6-10. $10 adults, $8 children.

Reservations not required. Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Dr., Greenwich, Conn. 203–869–0376. brucemuseum.org.

Enjoy a sunset concert on the Lyndhurst grounds, July 6.

Family Studio Projects. See July 1.

Brown. See July 21.

Italian Heritage Festival. Celebrate the culture of Italian Americans with live performances, dance, cultural exhibits and ethnic food. There are fun activities for kids and the event is held rain or shine. Noon– 7pm. For all ages. Reservations not required. Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway Rd., Valhalla.

914–964–7275. parks.westchestergov.com.

Katonah Museum Family Day. See Editors Pick page 38.

Planetarium Show: We Are Aliens. See July 1.

Stone Barns Weekend. See July 1.

Story Walk. See July 2.

Photo by Clifford Pickett

24 Monday

Cartography Camp. See Connecticut Corner page 41.

Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. See July 2.

Marine Life Study Cruises.

See July 2.

Outdoor Movies at Ridge Hill. See July 10.

Riverfront Children’s Evenings. See July 10.

25 Tuesday

Bruce Beginnings. See July 11.

26 Wednesday

Concert Series at Hudson Park. See July 5.

Dancing at Dusk: Traditional Russia. It’s a casual evening of music and outdoor family dancing with a focus on Russia. Russian folk musicians and dancers follow crafts activities on the lawn. 5pm. For all ages. $10 adult, $5 children. Reservations recommended. Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd., Katonah. 914–232–1252. caramoor.org.

44

Westchester Family | July 2017

Sunset Jazz Concert. Relax on Lyndhurst’s great lawn and enjoy cool music from the DOMI Quartet. Grounds open at 4pm; music starts at 6:30. For all ages.

Free admission to concert, $5 per person to park. Reservations not required. Lyndhurst Mansion, 635 S. Broadway, Tarrytown. 914–631– 4481. lyndhurst.org.

28 Friday

Family Farm Tour. See July 7.

Itsy Bitsy Playgroup. See July 5.

27 Thursday

Live Butterfly Exhibit. See Editor’s Pick page 36.

Rye Playland. See July 1.

Museum Minis. See July 6.

You’re a Good Man Charlie

Philipsburg Manor. See July 1.

Graham Clarke’s Summer Fridays. See July 7.

Play Days at Jay. See July 7.

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. See July 21.

29 Saturday

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. See Connecticut Corner page 41.

Family Art Project: Sundials and Sunprints. Celebrate the glory of sunshine through handmade sundials. Learn how to tell time using the sun’s shadows, then create a print using the rays of the sun. 10am–1pm today and July 30. For all ages. Free 7/29; free with admission 7/30 ($8 adult, $2 children). Reservations not required. Wave Hill Garden and Cultural Center, 675 West 252nd St. 718–549–3200. wavehill.org.

Grease. The popular 1950’s teen musical is live on stage with show-stopping songs like “Summer Nights” and “Sandra Dee.” 7:30pm today; 1pm July 30; 7:30pm August 5; 1pm August 6.

Best for older children. $26 adults, $19 children. Reservations not required. Yorktown Stage, 1974 Commerce St., Yorktown Heights.

914–952–0606. yorktownstage.org.

Kitty Yoga. Fitness instructor Angela Brandt leads a yoga class while curious kittens wander around for stretches and cuddles. It’s yoga ... but with cats.

2–4pm. For adults. Reservations not required. Rye Free Reading Room, 1061 Boston Post Rd., Rye. 914–967–0480. ryelibrary.org.

story of Luis, a boy who loves to read. After hearing the story, children create a mini pop-up book of their own. 2–3pm. For children ages 5 and up. Free with museum admission: $15. Reservations not required but space is limited; get tickets at Welcome Desk. Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk, Conn.

203–899–0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

Family Gallery Tour. See July 23.

Grasshopper Grove. See June 1.

Grease. See July 29.

Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. See July 2.

Meet the Animals. Have wild fun with wildlife, when a naturalist presents an informative program that lets you get up close to some of the Nature Center’s animals. 1pm. For all ages. $8.

Reservations not required. Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd., Scarsdale. 914–723–3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Pack Chat for Kids. See July 1.

Science Sundays: Creative Creatures. See July 9.

Story Walk. See July 2.

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre. See City Picks page XX. You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. See July 21.

30 Sunday

Around the World: Show Me a Tale. This month, the Museum is exploring the countries of South America. During this event, kids are treated to Biblioburro, the

Special Advertising Supplement

Family Studio Projects. See July 1.

Pirate Quest. See July 8.

Stone Barns Weekend. See July 1.

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You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. See July 21.

31 Monday

Choir! Choir! Choir! See Connecticut Corner page 41.

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. See Connecticut Corner page 41.

Riverfront Children’s Evenings. See July 10.

July 2017 | WestchesterFamily.com

45

Last Bite //

Photo by Whole Foods Market

Make pizza on the grill this summer! It’s so much fun the kids will love to help with the preparation.

Summer Pizza: Make It on the Grill From Whole Foods Market

T

he only way to make pizza even better: grill it! Not only does grilling pizza result in a delightful, lightly charred crust, it’s also a perfect meal solution when it is too hot to turn on the oven. Tip: Use tongs or two spatulas to move the pizza easily on and off the grill if needed.

Ingredients Flour (to dust work surface) 1/2 pound of prepared pizza dough 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 cup to 1 cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes Mozzarella or other cheese to melt on top

46

Westchester Family | July 2017

Other toppings as desired: lettuce, spinach, herbs, veggies, cooked meats or other cheeses Grated Parmesan or other herbs for final topping Directions 1. Prepare the grill for medium high cooking.

2. Lightly dust your work surface with flour.

3. Start with 1/2 pound of prepared pizza dough and divide it into two equal pieces.

4. Stretch the dough and press each piece into 8-inch circles.

5. Place pizza dough on sheet pan and lightly brush both sides of the dough with two teaspoons of extra-virgin olive oil.

6. Place dough on the grill (either directly on the grill or on a perforated sheet pan). With the lid open, rotate crust often using tongs

or a spatula, flipping once until just toasted all over.

7. Take dough off grill and add tomato sauce and desired toppings.

8. Return to grill and close lid to heat topping and melt cheese.

9. Move to cutting board for serving and to add any toppings you do not want cooked such as fresh spinach, lettuce, grated cheese, etc.

Whole Foods Markets are located in Yonkers at One Ridge Hill, in White Plains at 100 Bloomingdale Road, in Port Chester at 575 Boston Post Road, and in Connecticut at 150 Ledge Road, Darien and 90 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich.

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