Westchester Family - January 2018

Jan. 13 & 14 See page 17 for details

Growing Great Families for 27 Years

January 2018

Hot Stuff!

Warm Drinks for Winter STEAM-y Projects for Chilly Days

Hands-on Learning

Happy New Year

157 Fun January Activities

Inside our 2018 Camp Directory WestchesterFamily.com

SHAHRAM RAZMAN, MD

LILLIAN BERDICHEVSKY, MD

DMITRY GERBER, MD

Suzanne Greenidge, MD with new mom Liliana Silva-Maldonado and her son

ROSALIE ALVARADO, MD

COMFORT

IN KNOWING I MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE CARRIE HIPPLE, DO

5 STAR MATERNITY AWARD Large Private Riverview Suites Award-Winning Obstetrical Care LAURE LAURISTON, MD

Nationally Recognized Safety Program Peaceful Post-Partum Recovery Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery

© 2017 St. John’s Riverside Hospital | All Rights Reserved.

Visit RiversideHealth.org for a Virtual Tour of our Maternity Suites

914.964.4DOC

Thornton-Donovan School’s Summer Challenge

CAMP OPEN HOUSE DATES: Sunday, March 4, 2018, 2:00 – 4:00 PM Sunday, April 15, 2018, 2:00 – 4:00 PM

Program Dates: July 2 – August 17, 2018 8:45 am to 3:45 pm • Ages 3-14 • Co-ed REGULAR RATE

EARLY BIRD RATE!

EARLY, EARLY BIRD RATE!!

7

$4,620

$3,700

$3,470 - Maximum Savings!!!

6

$3,960

$3,570

$3,375

5

$3,300

$3,068

$2,524

4

$2,640

$2,508

$2,320

3

$1,980

$1,920

$1,836

2

$1,320

$1,288

$1,254

1

$ 660

No discount

No discount

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 January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

3

CONTENTS January 2018

Volume twenty-eight • number 1

departments

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

Hot Stuff! Warm Drinks for Winter

30 ASK THE SPECIALIST

Donor Breast Milk Helps Premature Infants Thrive

32 LET’S GO TO ...

Two New Indoor Attractions in Times Square

46 Last laugh

Does This Fitbit Make Me Look Fat?

calendar Family Activities for January

35 Top Pick 38 Camp Fairs 2018 40 Native American Series 41 Celebrate MLK Day 42 Connecticut Corner 43 City Picks

features 12

Finding the Right Camp for Your Little Introvert

Like many parents, you may be eager to provide your child with the simple pleasures of summer camp – group campfires and singalongs, outdoor fun and lasting friendships. Yet if your child is on the quieter side – hesitant about new situations or just not a stereotypical rip-roaring camp type – you may worry. Will camp be a treasured memory – or, gulp, a disaster?

14

STEAM-y Projects for Chilly Days

Is winter putting a chill on your usual outdoor fun? Take advantage of the cold season to explore the natural world, experiment, and get creative. Add art to STEM activities, and you get STEAM. From snow to stars to survival of animals, these activities are sure to STEAM things up.

See page 17 for details

on the cover 10

Hot Stuff!

January 2018

Hot Stuff!

14 STEAM-y Projects

STEAM-y Projects for Chilly Days

35

Warm Drinks for Winter

157 January Activities

Hands-on Learning

Bilingual Education Why are many local parents opting for bilingual schools and even dual language preschools? What are the benefits of a bilingual, or even multilingual education, and how do these schools differ from others? Find out.

SpongeBob SquarePants on Broadway He’s popular on television, but can he make the leap to the Great White Way? Read our review before you buy tickets.

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

Look for it starting January 25!

Happy New Year

Cover Photo: iStock.com

157 FUN JANUARY ACTIVITIES

INSIDE OUR 2018 CAMP DIRECTORY WestchesterFamily.com

4

16 Camp Directory

Coming Next Month

Jan. 13 & 14

Growing Great Families for 27 Years

advertising

Westchester Family | January 2018

Is this the year YOU learn how to play?

FREE $60

Registration Fee SEE BELOW!

You or Your Child Can Learn How to Play Music at Harrison’s Largest and Most Award Winning Music School, the Harrison School of Music!

As winner of “Best Music Lessons for Kids” 2017 by readers of Westchester Family Magazine, and with over 500 students enrolled in our schools, we provide lessons for Violin, Guitar, Piano, Drums, Voice, Uklele, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet and more!

Take the next step and contact us online OR stop by 6 days a week for a tour!

Free Registration!

Save $60 with this ad!

EXPIRES 1/31/18

914-575-2288 Request More Info Online:

www.HarrisonMusicSchool.com 253 Halstead Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528 (near the Harrison Train station) January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

5

Editor’s Note //

Published by Community News Group CEO Les Goodstein 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

What’s New

T

he New Year inspires change, or at least that’s the traditional belief. If you need a fresh perspective this year – and one that can help you start the New Year off with a good laugh – read Lisa Beach’s take on the fitness tracker craze. Her article, “Do I Look Fat in this Fitbit?” challenges the norm and speaks up for those of us that prefer not to know just how few steps we take in a day.

You can also start the New Year fresh by visiting two new, and very different, indoor attractions in Times Square. Traci Suppa takes us to Gulliver’s Gate and National Geographic Encounter Ocean Odyssey. Both exhibits are a delight to the senses and fun for adults and kids! There’s nothing like a new experience to freshen up your outlook.

Keep the fun going with our feature, “STEAM-y Projects for Chilly Days.” Sara

Barry helps parents and teachers bring the outdoors inside with easy projects that educate and inspire kids. And if getting hands-on isn’t possible right now check out the books that Barry recommends. They can put a new wrinkle in your bedtime story ritual.

No matter how you choose to celebrate the New Year, including fun family time is always a good goal. Read our comprehensive Calendar of Events for great ideas on what to do every day of the month.

From our family to yours, warm wishes for a happy and healthy 2018!

Happy New Year, Jean Sheff Co-Publisher, Editor

Calendar Editor Ann McGovern 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 Production Staff Arthur Arutyunov Daria Avvento Gardy Charles Earl Ferrer John Napoli Mark Ramos DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION RareSales Inc., Bob Engelman Contact: Carol Magluilo 718-260-8319 cmagluilo@cnglocal.com

Have You Made a Resolution to Send Your Child to Camp in 2018?

We can help. Attend the free Westchester Family 2018 Camp Fairs: • Jan. 13, 2018, noon to 3 p.m.

Grand Prix New York, 333 N. Bedford Road, Mt. Kisco, N.Y. Bonus: Register for the GPNY Camp Fair and get a free 10 Credit Arcade Card for this familyfriendly arcade destination. One card per family, must be present to receive.

• Jan. 14, 2018, noon to 3 p.m.

Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club, 555 S. Barry Ave., Mamaroneck, N.Y. Meet and speak to the directors and representatives for some of the best local day camps, sleep away and specialty camps in person. Sending your child to camp is an important decision. Let us help you make the right choice. Children are welcome to attend. See you there!

Register now: WestchesterFamily.com/CampFair

Feedback Share your feedback and ideas!

6

Westchester Family | January 2018

Email us at edit@WestchesterFamily.com.

Please recycle this magazine.

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 © 2018 Community News Group LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

Contests //

Our January Contests A Chorus Line Enter to win a Family Four-Pack of tickets to see A Chorus Line at Westchester Broadway Theatre.

It’s a musical for everyone who has ever had a dream and gave it their all. Winner of nine TONY Awards, including Best Musical, A Chorus Line is a funny, poignant and exhilarating musical. Tickets include dinner and the performance. Winner selects date, show runs through April 1, 2018. Retail value, $336. Contest ends Jan. 22, 2018. Enter now at WestchesterFamily.com/WBT

The Royal Hanneford Circus Enter to win a Family Four-Pack to see the Royal Hanneford Circus at the Westchester County Center. The 2018 Royal Hanneford Extravaganza features Circus favorites old and new including The Royal Hanneford Elephants, tigers, high flyers, motorcycle daredevils and more! This traditional three-ring Circus has been entertaining area families for more than 40 years during the President’s Day Weekend. Retail value, $140.

Contest ends Jan. 22, 2018. Enter now at WestchesterFamily.com/Circus

FREE

& !

A progressive approach to early childhood education in the most nurturing of environments

First lesson & Consultation

Belle School of Music

“Where Learning is Fun!�

SPECIALIZING IN PIANO, KEYBOARDS KEYBOARDS AND ANDVOICE VOICE ! " ! ! " ! ! " # " # & !" $ ! # "" " Ages 2-4 with parent participation.

Plant the seed of music in your child!

MUSIC LAND Ages 4-5 with parent participation.

A delightful experience for Mozarts of the future MUSIC FOR LITTLE PEOPLE Ages 5-7 with parent participation. Unique Russian-Japanese method.

Experience the Magic of Music.

ADVENTURES IN KEYBOARD Ages 8-12. Tradition on a new note. Piano instruction for the child of the new millennium.

Bring out the musical talent in your child!

Eliza Corwin Frost’s approach to curriculum is emergent, integrated and child-led. All sessions offer yoga, movement & music, and after school enrichment.

' !% ! "# 17 Sagamore Rd Bronxville, NY 914-779-4852 elizacorwinfrost.org

TOP 5 2017

TOP 5 2016

Scarsdale: 1088 Central Park Ave White Plains: 283 Tarrytown Rd Yonkers: 1537 Central Park Ave

WINNER 2015

914-961-5511 www.belleschool.com

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

7

Bits & Pieces // Fast Facts and Timely Tips

Self-harm Increases The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports an increasing self-harm prevalence among U.S. girls.

The rate of emergency department visits for self-harm treatment among girls ages 10 to 24 rose by 8.4 percent annually between 2009 and 2015, with the rate of emergency department visits for selfharm among those ages 10 to 14 increasing by 18.8 percent annually during the same period, according to a CDC study in the Journal of the American Medical Association. For girls, navigating the path of adolescence and young adulthood continues to be fraught with emotional trouble. Should you suspect your daughter is suffering from depression seek professional help. Ask your pediatrician for guidance.

Kids’ Night on Broadway® 2018 On Feb. 27 more than 15 Broadway shows in New York City are hosting Kids’ Night on Broadway. The Broadway League invites young people ages 18 and under to attend a participating Broadway show for free when accompanied by a full-paying adult. For tickets and more information, visit KidsNightonBroadway. com.

Kids’ Night on Broadway, a program of The Broadway League, is generously presented by The New York Times and is sponsored by WABC-TV with additional support from Turnstyle and Westchester Family.

8

Westchester Family | January 2018

New PBS KIDS Series New year, new show! Next month PBS KIDS introduces “Pinkalicious & Peterrific” based on the bestselling HarperCollins Pinkalicious book series by the New York-born Victoria Kann. Designed for kids ages 3 to 5, the program encourages kids to engage in creative arts and self-expression through art forms such as art, dance and visual arts. Pinkalicious, an artist at heart, isn’t afraid to express herself although she sometimes needs help from and her brother Peterrific and her neighborhood friends. The first episode airs on Feb. 19, 2018.

New Year’s Resolutions If you’ve made a New Year’s resolution be warned, experts contend only 2 to 8 percent of these resolutions are successful? If you want to beat the odds keep these tips in mind when setting your New Year’s resolution goals.

• Specific and measurable. If you want to lose weight declare how much exactly, such as 10 pounds. If you want to work out more, define the program you are implementing: run three miles Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.

• Attainable. Be realistic – losing 50 pounds is hard but losing 10 pounds five times breaks down what might be an overwhelming challenge.

• Create a plan and write it down.

Read your goal every day, or more if needed to stay on track.

• Get support. Ask friends, family or professionals to help you by supporting your efforts and providing motivation.

• Forgive. If you slip up, and that is normal when changing habits, forgive yourself and get right back on your plan. Giving up is not an option. Make adjustments if needed.

• Congratulate yourself. Reward yourself for what you achieve.

Introducing Yale New Haven children’s emergency services at Greenwich Hospital.

The pediatric emergency specialists of Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital have teamed up with Greenwich Hospital to provide the most advanced emergency services in the area. You will have the peace of mind of knowing that your child is being treated by specialists from the top children’s hospital in Connecticut nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report. And the new facility is cheerfully designed to help kids feel more at ease. The advanced care of Yale New Haven Health and the Greenwich Hospital experience. Together for your child.

Greenwich Hospital 5 Perryridge Road Greenwich, CT 06830 greenwichhospital.org

Karen Santucci, MD

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

9

Fab 4 //

Hot Stuff! 4 Warm Drinks for Winter Oh, baby it’s cold outside! That means it’s time to think about warm beverages that can warm the tummy and the soul.

Hot Cocoa Sip the delicious hot cocoa at Blue Tulip while you watch chocolates being made by the team of experts lead by chocolatier and owner Diane Holland. Don’t even try and resist the truffles, tulips, barks and swirls. Be sure to ask about the new Butter Crunch.

Creamy, crunchy, buttery English toffee dipped in chocolate and rolled in roasted almonds! Sign up for a chocolate making workshop here for extra fun.

Tea Time Forget the pretend tea party at home. Silver Tips Tea is a great way to introduce your child to the real thing. This cheerful shop boasts more than 150 varieties of tea from all over the world. The expert servers help you select the perfect pot. Make sure to order either breakfast, lunch or tea-time dessert treats with your cuppa.

The shop also offers gifts and accessories for your favorite tea aficionado.

A is for Apple Most kids love apple juice so hot apple cider just might be a hit in your house. It is an ideal beverage after skiing, sleighing or ice skating. And it really is easy to make at home. Starting with a delicious cider is the most important step. Open all year round, Salinger’s Orchard is a great place to locate fresh cider and some delicious items from the bakery to go with your brew. Call ahead for availability.

Hot Toddy A traditional Irish beverage, a hot toddy is for adults only. Typically, this beverage is made of liquor (whiskey, rum or brandy), water or tea, sweetener, herbs and spices.

Some say a hot toddy can even cure the common cold. Whether that’s true or not, a hot toddy sure can make you feel better and warmer. At Bar’Lees you can also order tapas/small plates to enjoy with your beverage and the live music.

Blue Tulip Chocolates 137 Purchase St., Rye 914-481-4840 bluetulipchocolates.com

Silver Tips Tea 3 N. Broadway, Tarrytown 914-332-8515 silvertipstea.com

Salinger’s Orchard 230 Guinea Road, Brewster 845-277-3521 salingersorchard.com

Bar’Lees Wine & Whiskey Bar 157 Mamaroneck Ave., Mamaroneck 914-630-7512

– Jean Sheff

10

Westchester Family | January 2018

Schedule your annual physical!

• Comprehensive care from birth to age 21 • State of the art pediatric office • Convenient on-site parking

• Spacious child-friendly waiting area • Extended evening & weekend office hours • Most insurances accepted

Susan Meisler, M.D. • Hilary Smith, M.D. Lisa Mandelker, D.O. • Debra Etelson, M.D. 145 Huguenot Street, Suite 200 • New Rochelle, NY www.pasw4kids.com • 914.235.1400

Nearly 90 years of Exceptional Catholic Education

Pre-K 3 & 4 to Grade 8 After School Program Available OPEN HOUSE

January 31, 2018 from 9-11am Please contact us for information or to schedule a tour

Visit us at www.ihmscarsdale.org Mrs. Teresa Sopot, Principal

201 Boulevard, Scarsdale, NY 10583 • 914-723-5608

• 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 January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

11

Finding the Right Camp for Your Little

Introvert

By Connie Jeske Crane

L

ike many parents, you may be eager to provide your child with the simple pleasures of summer camp – group campfires and singalongs, outdoor fun and lasting friendships. Yet if your child is on the quieter side – hesitant about new situations or just not a stereotypical rip-roaring camp type – you may worry. Will camp be a treasured memory – or, gulp, a disaster?

Renee Flax, head of camper placement for the American Camp Association New York and New Jersey, says, “I’ve been doing this for almost 20 years and I get asked this question so often by parents. They won’t necessarily use the word ‘introvert,’ they’ll use the word ‘shy’ and ask, ‘Will they still be able to go to camp and do well?’”

So how to increase the odds your little introvert’s introduction to camp will be a huge success? We talked to Flax and Susan Newman, Ph.D., a New Jersey-based social psychologist and author of Little Things Long Remembered: Making Your Children Feel Special Every Day . Here’s their take.

Camp Has Real Benefits, Particularly for Introverts In a psychological sense, Newman says camp provides kids with wonderful practice at moving out of their comfort zones. “Leaving home, let’s face it, can be scary. However, for introverts, camp can be the catalyst that helps them open up.”

Flax agrees, and shares some personal experience, “I was that shy introverted afraidof-my-own-shadow kind of kid and my parents sent me off to overnight camp when I was 9.

And I was like ‘What did I do wrong?’ ‘Why

12

Westchester Family | January 2018

Resources Books • Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverted Kids, by Susan Cain, Gregory Mone and Erica Moroz (Puffin Books, 2017).

• Quiet Kids: Help Your Introverted Child Succeed in an Extroverted World, by Christine Fonseca (Prufrock Press, 2013).

• The Hidden Gifts of the Introverted Child: Helping Your Child Thrive in an Extroverted World, by Dr. Marti Olsen Laney (Workman Publishing, 2005).

Websites & More • Quiet Revolution, quietrev.com, under “Articles” and “Parenting and Kids” • Renee Flax, American Camp Association New York and New Jersey, 212-391-4208, ext. 1002 • American Camp Association New York and New Jersey, aca-nynj.org.

are they punishing me?’” She laughs, adding, “I went off thinking I was going to hate it and spent the next 15 years of my life there. It was truly an experience that changed me.”

Flax links camp with personal growth – your kids can’t keep coming to you to solve their problems, they must learn to advocate and become responsible for themselves. “That is the gift that camp gives a child.”

Sure, letting go is excruciating for parents, but Flax points to benefits later. “If the first time they ever leave home is when they go off to college, then college becomes

a struggle ... All kinds of studies have found that kids who’ve gone off to organized sleepaway camp do way better in college than kids who have not.”

Understand and Appreciate the Introvert Style Before selecting a camp, parents need to appreciate how a child’s personality factors in. Susan Cain, co-author of Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverted Kids, underlines that introversion is not about social anxiety but how we respond to stimulation and recharge. She provides this definition, a great one to keep in mind when evaluating camp environments, “We introverts … react more – sometimes much, much more – to stimulating environments such as noisy school cafeterias. This means that we tend to feel most relaxed and energized when we’re in quieter settings – not necessarily alone,

but often with smaller numbers of friends or family we know well.”

Do Your Research To find a good fit, says Flax, “Know the structure of the camp, know how they do things. For a child who’s a true introvert, you don’t need that hustle and bustle all day long, you don’t want a camp of 500 kids where the movement never stops. You probably want a smaller camp that’s a little more on the quiet and nurturing side, where you can get electives and an elective might be that I can just read a book by myself.”

Competitive camps probably won’t be good fit either, adds Flax, whereas facilities with libraries, or animals – or anything your child is passionate about – often work. Some camps offer “rookie days” where potential campers can visit for a weekend or a few hours, which Flax recommends. “The child,

at the end of the time, can realistically say, ‘I like it here’ or ‘I don’t like it here.’”

Be aware it takes time. Flax warns, “Don’t do this flying by the seat of your pants. Let’s just say you have an 8- or 9-year-old. Your kid could possibly be going to that camp until they’re 15 years old.”

Prepare Your Child After choosing a camp, prepare emotionally.

For example, says Newman, “Let your child know that you have confidence in her ability to be a camper.” And beforehand, “Build that self-confidence by praising other steps he takes – sleeping at a friend’s house or going to a birthday party at which he didn’t know anyone other than the birthday child.”

Talk about fun, sure, Newman says, “But also be understanding of your child’s hesitancy or fear. Ask ‘What you are worried about?’ Be empathetic.”

Flax is a big proponent of role playing and strategizing together around potential problems – talk about how your child might handle homesickness or a difficult bunkmate and convey that bumps are normal. “It’s like life itself – you’re going to have days that you don’t like as much as the day before … That’s all part of the adjustment of camp.”

Advocate for Your Child Finally, advise the camp director about your child’s needs, says Flax. “If you don’t explain to the camp director who your child is, how do you expect them to understand on day one, who this child is, what bunk they should be in? Advocate for your own child and they will end up in a better group and in a better situation.”

Connie Jeske Crane writes frequently for Westchester Family.

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

13

STEAM-y Projects for Chilly Days

By Sara Barry

I

s winter putting a chill on your usual outdoor fun? Take advantage of the cold season to explore the natural world, experiment, and get creative. Add art to STEM activities, and you get STEAM. From snow to stars to survival of animals, these activities are sure to STEAM things up.

Snow STEAM Instead of sledding or building a snowman, try studying snow. Talk about what happens when you bring snow inside. Most kids know it melts and turn to water. Now get curious.

Fill a jar with snow to do two experiments.

(No snow? Try these experiments with crushed ice.)

• Predict how long the snow will take to melt. Mark the time you brought the snow in and check in on it periodically. How much faster does it melt if you place the jar near a heater or warm stove than if you place it in an unheated room or near a window?

• Estimate how much water there will be in the jar when the snow melts. If the jar is full of snow, will the water be all the way to the top? Mark each person’s guess on the jar. Are you surprised at the results?

Then take a closer look at snowflakes.

Put a piece of black paper in the freezer for a few hours. Then bring it outside while it snows to capture flakes. Use a hand lens to take a closer look at the snowflakes. What do different snowflakes have in common? What differences do you see?

After exploring snow shapes, make your

14

Westchester Family | January 2018

own paper snowflakes. Cut circles out of white paper or use paper coffee filters. Fold in quarters (or smaller) and use scissors to cut intricate shapes. You can get templates online to help you create a variety of shapes inspired by actual snowflakes. Unfold to see your symmetrical snowflakes.

before bed to see if the moon appears to have moved. Track the moon for a month, watching how it changes as it waxes and wanes.

Use dark paper and white or silver paint to create your own constellation charts or moon maps showing your observations.

Read about it:

Read about it:

• The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats – This book for younger kids has less detail about snow, but you can talk about the snowball the boy puts in his pocket as part of your melting experiment.

• The Story of Snow: The Science of Winter’s Wonder by Mark Cassino – Learn about how snow crystals form and the answers to other questions about snow.

• Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs Martin– This is the story of Wilson Bentley, a real man determined to photograph snow. (You can find some of his images online at the Smithsonian Institute Archives.) The book includes an illustrated story and background notes in the sidebars.

Winter Sky STEAM Bundle up and go outside to look up at the night sky. The longer darkness of winter gives us more opportunity to view the stars. See if you can pick out constellations. Star guides come in books, maps, decks of constellation cards, and even apps to help you. Orion’s belt – three stars close together in a straight line – is usually an easy one to spot.

In addition to stars, try tracking the moon.

Go out early to see where the moon rises. Take another look in the afternoon and again right

• Zoo in the Sky: A Book of Animal Constellations by Jacqueline Mitton – Use this book as an introduction to constellations for young children.

• The Moon Seems to Change by Franklyn M. Branley – Learn more about why the moon changes size and shape.

• A Child’s Introduction to the Night Sky

by Michael Driscoll – Learn about stargazing, including the stories behind the constellations and how to find things in the night sky.

Animals in Winter STEAM Take a winter walk in the woods. Slow down and keep your eyes peeled for signs of animal life. Some things you might find: • footprints in snow or mud • scat • holes in the snow from burrowing animals • animal homes (beaver lodges, squirrel nests in trees) • packed areas in the snow where animals have slept • animals themselves Ask questions like: What do animals need for the winter? Where do they find the things they need? Which animals do we see signs of?

Where are other animals?

Talk about what kids know and have

observed already. For example, they may have seen geese migrating or learned about butterfly migration in school. Use the books below, field guides or the Internet to explore how particular animals cope in the winter.

Create a model of an animal winter habitat. Use a shoe box or other small box, clay, construction paper, paint, twigs or other objects gathered from nature to show how a specific animal spends the winter.

Read about it:

• Owl Moon by Jane Yolen – Get inspired to go owling (or for another night walk) yourself.

• Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner – Learn about animals including squirrels, bears, frogs, and more, and where they live over and under the snow.

• Someone Walks By by Polly Carson-Voiles – Explore the different ways animals thrive in

the winter.

There is so much happening in the natural world in every season. These STEAM activities are just a starting point for your winter exploration. What will you and your family observe, notice, wonder, and create next?

Sara Barry is a freelance writer who loves exploring the changes in her environment throughout the seasons.

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

15

Camp Directory // Special Advertising Supplement

Advertising Supplem l a i c ent Spe

SUMMER Art Camp

ALL SUMMER until Sept 1 Half-Day Weekly Camps

Ages 3-5 & 6-9

914-723-9229 info@youngatartworkshop.com www.youngatartworkshop.com Young at Art Studio Inc. 1088 Central Park Avenue Scarsdale, NY

16

Westchester Family | January 2018

Family Owned & Operated since 1973 Experienced Counselors

Licensed by the Health Department

Serving children 2 months–14 years of age Age appropriate activities including: tween trips, bowling, swimming, golf, drama, sports, water slide, zip-line, climbing wall, arts & crafts, computers, air castle and more!

Open house February 10th 10-1pm

Call for a Tour and Appointment! 914-592-3027 2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford, NY www.AcresOfAdventureSummerCamp.com

You’re invited!

Meet the directors and representatives of some of the best day camps and sleep away camps all under one roof. We know you have questions about camp, so here’s your chance to ask them face-to-face.

Sending your child to camp is a big decision – make sure you select the right camp for your child!

Children are welcome to attend. These events are free!

Register now at WestchesterFamily. com/CampFair

Jan 13, 2018, noon to 3 p.m.

Grand Prix New York 333 N. Bedford Road, Mt. Kisco Register for our Camp Fair at this familyfriendly indoor entertainment destination and get a free 10 Credit Arcade Card, one per family, registration required, must be present to receive card.

Jan 14, 2018, noon to 3 p.m.

Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club 555 S. Barry Ave., Mamaroneck

Early Childhood Music Classes OPEN HOUSE!

Saturday, January 20th • 12-2 pm • Demo Class 12:30 (Snow Date: January 27th)

New Student Discount: Enroll by January 31 and save $30 registration fee!

Continuing Education

SUMMER 2018

SERIOUS FOUNDATION. SERIOUS FUN.

ENROLL L NOW FOR SPRIN SPRING 2018!

Sequential music and movement classes for ages 3 months and up combine fun with learning, nurturing the development of the whole child.

Live Music • Certified Teachers • Parent/Child & Child Only INSTRUMENTAL CLASSES FOR YOUNG BEGINNERS Pre-Suzuki Strings • Recorder • Ukulele

Youth & Precollege Programs in the Arts Grades 4-8 / Grades 9-12

1, 2, & 4 Week Programs June 25–August 3 Architecture, Creative Writing, Digital Arts, Filmmaking, Journalism, Music, Performing Arts, Visual Arts

Save the Date: Open House is Saturday, April 21 WESTCHESTER’S PREMIER COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL

www.hbms.org • hb@hbms.org 25 School Lane, Scarsdale • 914-723-1169

Register by May 4 to receive Early Registration Discount

www.purchase.edu/youth January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

17

Camp Directory // Special Advertising Supplement

Katonah

ART

Center MER SUM P CAM1 -18 3 /2 Ages

Week long, half or full day!

Painting, drawing, pottery, cartooning, 3D printing & more!

9LNPZ[LY VUSPUL! RH[VUHOHY[JLU[LY JVT ŕ Ž (914) 232-4843 65 Old Bedford Road, Goldens Bridge, NY 10526

3345 Yea

r of Fun s , Friend s & Fitne , ss

Best ys Birthda!

Ever

WINNER 2017

for kid 9 moss to 12 yrs

www.jodisgym.com 25 Hubbels Dr .U ,JTDP Ĺ” 914.244.8811

ACT NOW TO ACT OUT! in cooperaĆ&#x;on with The City of Stamford

For over 25 years, Curtain Call, Inc. has oered year-round theatre arts programs for young and old!

Classes January to March, 2018 for ages ďƒžve to adult.

AcĆ&#x;ng for the stage, TV and ďƒžlm, dance, improv, musical theatre AND MORE! Discounts for siblings!

Scholarships and payment plans available!

Theatre Complex 203-329-8207 x16 Sterling Farms1349 Newďƒželd Ave. Stamford, CT 06905 curtaincallinc.com

18

Westchester Family | January 2018

A Child’s Dream 10 Mill Road, New Rochelle 914-633-4332 A Child’s Dream offers a fun filled camp that runs for seven weeks from June 11th -July 26th. Camp is a 1/2 day (9am-12pm) themed program. Campers can make their own schedule while supervised by experienced teachers with assistance from college-aged counselors. Call for pricing and to learn more.

Acres of Adventure Summer Camp @ Ann & Andy’s 2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-3027 acresofadventure-summercamp. com Acres of Adventure Summer Camp at Ann & Andy’s is a one to nine-week summer camp with an emphasis on outdoors for children ages 3 months to 14 years.

They offer customized schedules, individualized attention and hot lunches including barbeque Fridays. All buildings are airconditioned. Visit the website for more details.

Alliance Francaise of Westchester and Lyceum Kennedy French American School/Summer Camp 1 Cross Road, Ardsley 914-681-8735 afwestchesterny.org lyceumkennedy.org Alliance Francaise of Westchester and Lyceum Kennedy French American School have partnered to provide a Summer Camp for children ages 6-12. Workshops include outdoor activities, theater, games, cooking and arts & crafts.

No previous knowledge of French required (language or culture).

If you have any questions please call 914-681-8735.

Amadeus Summer Theater and Art Day Camp – Annie!

Chappaqua 914-238-0388 amadeusconservatory.com amadeusconservatoryofmusic@ gmail.com Performing arts musical theater

and art camp featuring ANNIE! Acting, Singing, Song writing, Ensembles. Private music lessons in 2 instruments by Amadeus faculty, Drawing and Painting, Dance, Set-making, June 25–July 13, ages 5–16, 9:30 - 3:00, M–F. Performance in professional theater. Three-week session.

Artistree Performing Arts Camp 114 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck 914-835-2200 artistreearts.com Artistree Performing Arts (formerly Applause Westchester) is pleased to present camps for school breaks and all summer long! Owners Heather and Peter Capelle hold week-long performing arts camps where students engage in acting, singing, dancing, filmmaking and more!

Artistree’s three-week summer intensives allow students to put on a full musical! Ages 3 to 18.

Belle School of Music Scarsdale, White Plains, Yonkers 914-961-5511 belleschool.com Children ages 18 months and up enjoy music in a fun-filled atmosphere. Whether you are introducing your child to the world of music, advancing his or her performing skills or jazzing up the summer with cool sounds and funky rhythms of rock, pop and blues, Belle School has it all.

Blue Rock Summer Play Camp at Blue Rock School 110 Demarest Mill Road, West Nyack 845-627-0234 summerplaycamp.org Summer Play Camp is a creative, discovery-based approach to summer fun. Children 3 to 12 explore art, music, nature & science, gardening, woodworking, drama, swimming, and free play on a charming, wooded property. Five weeks. Monday-Friday, 9:30am3pm. Open House: January 20 at pm. Please register at summerplaycamp@bluerockschool.org

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

19

Camp Directory // Special Advertising Supplement

Amadeus Musical Theater and Art Camp

Acting, Singing, Private Music Instruction, Ensembles, Choreography, Art

June 25 - July 13 9:30 - 3:00 914 238 0388 Chappaqua, NY amadeusconservatory.com amadeusconservatoryofmusic@gmail.com

Camp Birch Hill 333C Birch Hill Rd., New Durham, NH 603-859-4525 campbirchhill.com A classic New England summer camp focused on fun located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. A home away from home for boys and girls across the globe. Campers ages 6-16 choose from over 50 activities to create a personalized schedule, explore new interests, while developing friendships, memories and skills that last a lifetime.

Clay Art Center 40 Beech St., Port Chester 914-937-2047 clayartcenter.org/summercamp Discover the Art of Summer Make Friends, Memories and Art! Weekly themed, half-day and full-day clay camps for ages 6 to 15 from July 2 – Aug. 31. Taught by ceramic artists who specialize in kindling a passion for creative expression in children. Register before April 9 for a 10% discount.

2017 Westchester Family Favorite Winner!

Camp Louemma 43 Louemma Lane, Sussex NJ 973-875-4403; 973-287-7264 CampLouemma.com joe@camplouemma.com A day at Camp Louemma is filled with endless possibilities and personal achievement. Since 1941, their nurturing and caring staff engage campers in age appropriate activities geared towards building individual skills.

Campers learn to problem solve and become “Camp People” who by definition, look forward to giving back.

Corbin’s Crusaders Day Camp 471 North St., Greenwich, Conn.

212-875-8174 CorbinsCrusaders.com From team and individual sports to gaga, they focus on a skills, drills and thrills to allow campers to excel and have fun.

Children have a lesson and open swim each day and are bussed in on staff-monitored buses or dropped off at camp. Schedule a tour of the 38-acre campus today!

Camp Ramaquois 30 Mountain Road, Pomona (only 20 mins. from TZ Bridge) 845-354-1600 Located in Rockland County, featuring door-to-door transportation, age-appropriate activities for ages 3 to 15. Five-acre lake, nine heated pools and Water Works Spray Park, six tennis courts, zip line, air-conditioned dining room and gym, seven craft shops, group cabins and athletic fields. Hot lunch, towels, optional trips for children entering grades 3-10.

Challenge Camp Schechter Westchester 555 West Hartsdale Avenue Hartsdale 914-779-6024 challengecamps.com info@challengecamps.com Open the door to a delightful and meaningful summer of FUN and learning for your bright, curious child! Challenge Camp, an ACA accredited camp in Hartsdale, NY. Courses range from 3D printing, cooking, magic, robotics and more! Including Sports/Swimming. Bus transportation & early/ extended day options. For more info, challengecamps.com.

20

Westchester Family | January 2018

Crestwood Music Education Center 453 White Plains Road, Eastchester 914-961-3497 crestwoodmusic.com Offering private lessons in piano, guitar, voice, strings, woodwinds, brass, drums and percussion for students of all ages/levels. Suzuki programs in piano and violin.

World-class faculty provides a premier music education, including jazz instruction with top jazz artists in piano, woodwinds, saxophone, guitar and percussion. They rent, repair and sell instruments.

Curtain Call Located at Sterling Farms 1349 Newfield Ave., Stamford, Conn.

203-329-8207 curtaincallinc.com Curtain Call Theatre Arts Classes for Young and Old: After school, evenings and weekends for kids, teens and adults in acting, improv, musical theatre, on-camera, Shakespeare AND MORE January to March and April to June, and their Summerstock Program for ages 6-16, June through August.

ACT NOW TO ACT OUT!

ENROLL ONLINE FOR WINTER/SPRING aNd SummER!

Classes

and

Camp

for

Ages 3 – 18

Summer Camp should be fun, not lonely!

ARTISTREEARTS.COM - (914) 835-2200 114 W. BOSTON POST RD. MAMARONECK

If you are worried that your child won’t make friends at summer camp, then go to www.WhereICanBeMe.com/CampTips to get free information, tips, and strategies for picking the perfect summer camp.

CAMP BIRCH HILL

LOCATED IN THE BEAUTIFUL LAKES REGION OF NEW HAMPSHIRE

YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Voted Top 5 Overnight Camp in NH"

by Boston Parents Paper

Choose From over 50 Activities / Customize Daily Schedule!!!

ENROLL ONLINE TO DAY

TWO, FOUR and SIX WEEK SESSIONS AVAILABLE

BOYS AND GIRLS AGES 6-16 Many activities to choose: Ř /DQG 6SRUWV Ř :DWHU 6SRUWV Ř 7HQQLV Ř +RUVHEDFN 5LGLQJ Ř 3DLQWEDOO Ř *DJD 3LW Ř 'DQFH Ř =LS OLQH

Ř $GYHQWXUH Ř &DQRHLQJ Ř *ROI Ř DQG PRUH

Ř )LQH $UWV Ř &OLPELQJ Ř :DWHUVNL

!

Celebrating 20 years of friendship and memories of a lifetime SUMMER@CAMPBIRCHHILL.COM U WWW.CAMPBIRCHHILL.COM U (603) 859-4525 January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

21

Camp Directory // Special Advertising Supplement

summer camp 2018 Weekly themes for 2, 3, & 4 year olds June 11th - July 26 pick 1 week or 7 monday-Thursday / 9am-12pm supervised by experienced teachers

Now registering for 2018 Directors: Tiffany amaya & ana caldararo 10 mill road, New rochelle 914-633-4332

We want to hear YOUR story

Spring & Summer Ages 4-17

Enrolling Now!

(914)

946-4433

playgroup.org Children’s Theater Company

Family Theatre (Live)

Acting Classes for Kids

2017 2017

22

Westchester Family | January 2018

We’re honored. Thank you!

Digital Arts Experience 303 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-644-8100 Rob@thedae.com TheDae.com The DAE is a STEAM learning center that hosts summer camps, after-school drop-ins and Saturday classes in 3D Printing, Animation, Coding, Graphic Design, Photo/ Video and more! Come to the Winter STEAM Open House & Grand Re-Opening Party on Wednesday, January 17th from 5-8PM at our new location in Scarsdale!

Harrison School of Music 253 Halstead Ave., Harrison 914-575-2288 harrisonmusicschool.com Winner of “Best Music Lessons for Kids” in Westchester Family, offering music lessons year-round!

Summer’s a GREAT time to try a new instrument, add extra lessons, or prepare for the school year! Fun, patient teachers teach the songs kids want to learn on piano, guitar, voice, drums, violin, saxophone, flute and clarinet!

Enrollment open, space is limited!

Eliza Corwin Frost 17 Sagamore Rd, Bronxville 914-779-4852 elizacorwinfrost.org ECF Summer Camp for 2-5 year olds. ECF’s half-day camp is a four-day weekly experience combing two resources: Eliza Corwin Frost’s teachers and theirunique preschool facility. At ECF Camp the emphasis is fun!

Campers utilize the indoor gym, fully equipped classrooms and are exposed to cooking, crafts, planting and outdoor water play.

Harvey Cavalier Camp 260 Jay St., Katonah 914-232-0581 harveycavaliercamp.org Children (pre-K to grade 9) can pursue a wide variety of interests.

Including fine and performing arts, swimming, ice skating, gymnastics and sports all guided by professional educators and artists. 50 electives to choose from! Offering state-of-the-art facilities on 125-acres, the perfect setting for fun and exploration.

July 2 to Aug. 10.

Gate Hill Day Camp Stony Point, NY 845-947-3223 GateHillDayCamp.com Unconditionally welcoming since 1951. Gate Hill is a place where you matter most. Campers receive individual attention and parents are kept involved with personal conversations by phone and email. A first-rate facility, a thoughtful program and an infectious culture of nurturing improvement makes Gate Hill the ultimate day camp experience for campers age 3-15.

Hoff-Barthelson Music School 25 School Lane, Scarsdale 914-723-1169 hbms.org Hoff-Barthelson is the ideal setting for a stimulating and enjoyable summer! An exceptional faculty offers students in grades 2-10 a program individually tailored to their needs and desires. Featuring instrumental classes, ensembles, musical theater, jazz, rock, world drumming, music technology, chamber music and more! June 25 – July 27.

Hackley School Summer Programs 293 Benedict Ave., Tarrytown 914-366-2675 hackleyschool.org/summer Hackley offers an incredible array of summer enrichment programs for students K-12. Whether it’s sports or visual arts, nature adventures, theater or academic challenges your children are looking for, you will find wonderful opportunities led by Hackley faculty on our amazing 285-acre campus in central Westchester. Open to all.

Hudson Country Day Camp 340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle 914-636-6202 hudsoncountry.org Children delight in active, playful and healthy summer fun while parents rest assured they continue to learn, explore and develop.

Summer activities include water play, swim instruction, music, movement, hands-on science, cooking, gardening, tennis, nature investigation, field trips and more. Full- and part-time options available. Join them in celebrating 46 years of summer tradition!

IONA COLLEGE

Summer

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

Contact us at mreddington@iona.edu 715 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10801 www.iona.edu\summercamp

summer programs at hackley school Hackley offers an incredible array of summer enrichment programs for students grades K-12.

Whether it’s sports or visual arts, nature adventures, theater or academic challenges your children are looking for, you will find wonderful opportunities led by Hackley faculty right here on our amazing 285-acre campus in central Westchester.

Hudson River

Mt Kisco

9

100

For more information, visit our website at www.hackleyschool.org/summer.

684

15

Tarrytown HACKLEY SCHOOL

119

287

Greenwich

Scarsdale

Contact us at summer@hackleyschool.org.

Peter Sawkins, Director of Auxiliary Programs (914) 366–2675

95 87

Rye

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

23

Camp Directory // Special Advertising Supplement

Iona College Summer Camp 715 North Ave., New Rochelle 914-633-2305 iona.edu/summercamp This summer, children ages 5 to 13 will enjoy exciting, fun-filled days at the Iona College camp.

Their athletic facilities serve as the setting for an exciting summer. Your child will experience two periods of swimming, sporting events, a variety of dance, arts and crafts and music. Contact them at mreddington@iona.edu.

Jodi’s Gym 25 Hubbels Dr., Mt. Kisco 914-244-8811 jodisgym.com Join them for a morning of non-stop fun, Jodi’s Gym style!

Your child will run, jump, tumble, balance, stretch, sing, create, move and groove all under the supervision and care of their well trained and certified staff.

Flexible scheduling. Offered June 18 to August 31. Ages 3 to 7.

For grades K-6

S SummeratMCW.org

PIANO, IANO, VIOLIN, IOLIN, GUITAR, UITAR, VO OICE ICE & M MORE ORE HEATRE USICAL THEATRE MUSICAL AR RTS TS & CRAFTS RAFTS VEMENT OVEMEN NCE & MO ANCE DA *NEW Middle School Programs Coming!

-Half, Full and Extended Day Options Flexible Sessions June 25th - August 17th 914. 761. 3900

216 Central Ave. White Plains, NY 10606 musicconservatory.org

24

Westchester Family | January 2018

Katonah Art Center 65 Old Bedford Road, Goldens Bridge 914-232-4843 katonahartcenter.com The Katonah Art Center offers weekly half-day or full-day camps in painting, drawing, computer art, jewelry making, sculpture, pottery 3D printing and more. From Preschoolers to Young Adults, KAC camps have something for everyone!

Little Sprouts Mini Camp at Purchase Day Camp 914-949-2636 purchasedaycamp.com Get your preschooler off to an early start this summer at Purchase Day Camp. Little Sprouts Mini Camp for 3’s, 4’s and children entering kindergarten during the first three weeks of June. Daily swimming, sports, science, cooking, Friday pizza lunch and more! Register for one, two or all three weeks.

Summer Stars at Scarsdale Synagogue Scarsdale Synagogue Temples Tremont and Emanu-El 2 Ogden Road, Scarsdale 914-723-3001 mazeltots@sstte.org;bit.ly/ starsfamily

Summer Stars serves children 18 months to 5 years. The summer session runs from late June to mid Aug. Summer Stars features water play, soccer, nature, music, sports, special theme days, creative movement, yoga, cooking, storytelling, art and much more!

Please call or visit their website for more information.

Music Conservatory of Westchester 216 Central Ave., White Plains 914-761-3900 summeratmcw.org Summer Music & Arts at Music Conservatory of Westchester offers flexible day options for individual 2-week sessions from 6/25-8/17 for grades K-6 to learn piano, guitar, violin, voice, musical theater and more!

New musical programs for middle school students to be announced. Call 914-761-3900 or email info@musiced.org for more info!

Pine Brook Fitness 130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle 914-636-1019 pinebrookfitness.com Join them for fun tennis and rock climbing camps all year round. They offer camps during holiday vacations and over the summer. Kids have a blast climbing the walls, playing tennis and participating in fun games.

Make new friends, have fun, and stay fit!

Play Group Summer Theatre Programs One N. Broadway, White Plains 914-946-4433 playgroup.org At The Play Group Theatre®, they challenge the imagination and nurture the creative soul.

They offer professional-quality training in a one-of-a-kind artistically challenging yet nurturing environment in the spring, summer, and fall. Their camp is located in its own airconditioned performing arts complex which includes two theatres, and rehearsal and design studios. Ages 4-17.

Come See Our Beautiful Expanded Facilities!

Greenburgh Indoor Tennis A BRAND NEW INDOOR TENNIS FACILIT Y Cushioned Premier Court - Which is Easy On the Body New Renovated Park Bathrooms • Unlimited Parking Trailer Reception & Lounge with TV, Restroom, Water, & Wi-Fi Open to the Public • No Membership Fees, No Guest Fees

Register for for Spring and Summer Register Winter 2018 Private Lessons • World Class Faculty Children & Adults • All Levels & Ages Piano • Woodwinds Brass • String Voice • Guitar • Drums Jazz • Suzuki Chamber Music & Orchestral Programs

NEW 2-Court Bubble

Open Cour t time is available as well Contract Cour ts, Adult Clinics, & Junior Programming Hours of operation: Mon.-Sun. 7am-11pm Time slots available on a first come first serve basis. Reserve your court or class options as space is limited

Complimentary First Lesson

For more information, you can go to www.greenburghindoortennis.com

Located at: East Rumbrook Park 600 Dobbs Ferry Road, White Plains, NY Convenient to get to: Just off Dobbs Ferry Road (Route 100B) & the Sprain Brook Parkway

453 White Plains Rd., Eastchester, NY 10709

961-3497 • www.crestwoodmusic.com Dr. Gines Didier Cano, Director

Westchester’s Top Summer Tennis Camp June 26 - August 18 Summer Camp - Morning Session • • • •

All camp programs taught by our full time exprienced professional staff 8:45am - 1:00pm Daily Ages 8 - 16 Instructions and Match Play

USTA Tournament Training Camp • • • •

Mon - Thurs, 2:00pm - 4;00pm Training and Match Play MITL JUNIOR TEAM COMPETITION Campers must be evaluated for acceptance into this program

Full Day Camp Now Available!

• • • •

8:45am - 4:00pm Daily Tournament Training Match Play Campers must be evaluated for acceptance into this program

Mini Camp

• *NEW Times! 9 - 11 am or 1 - 3 pm • 4 days a week - Monday through Thursday • Ages 3 - 7

Summer Camp Programs

• All Camps are 1-Week Sessions • Indoor and Outdoor Courts • Har-tru and Plexi-cushion Courts

914-835-3030

•

www.ryeracquet.com January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

25

Camp Directory // Special Advertising Supplement

At World Cup Gymnastics kids FLIP for our

SUMMER CAMP Beginner to advanced gymnasts will love our fun gymnastics rotations, weekly field trips and traditional camp activities!

E N R O LL N OW !

Early Drop Off and Late Pick Up

Call today for more information

914-238-4967

New York’s Premier Gymnastics Facility Chappaqua, NY

Westchester Turf & Tennis is an all-weather, year-round, indoor sports facility

New 2018 Soccer Camp!

A premier level, air-conditioned soccer camp geared for boys and girls ages 9–14. Steve Carson, Director of Coaching FC Westchester Soccer Club runs the program.

Seven weekly sessions offered from July 2 to August 17, 9am–1pm. Coaches’ references and evaluation required.

Feature soccer, futsal, soccer-specific speed and strength training.

5 Browns Lane, Hawthorne | 914 592 3737

Call or email Mike Friedlander at mikef@turfandtennis.com

turfandtennis.com 26

Westchester Family | January 2018

Purchase Day Camp 914-949-2636 purchasedaycamp.com Offering a wide variety of activities for ages 3 to 15. 150 TEAM members for 375 campers.

Four heated pools, instructional swim, free swim, climbing wall, zip line, golf, rocketry, computers, crafts and sports twice daily.

Check website to find out why everyone says, “I just LOVE it here!”

Rye Racquet Club 3 South Road, Harrison 835-3030 ryeracquetclub.com Tennis is the name of the game for junior players. The nine-court indoor/outdoor facility offers eight one-week sessions of tennis camp for ages 3 to 16. Program includes instruction, practice play and match play. They also have a USTA tournament training camp and MITL team competition.

SUNY – Purchase 914-251-6500 purchase.edu/youth The Purchase College Summer Youth & Precollege Programs in the Arts are much more than camps! Immersed in a variety of exciting, fun, and enriching learning activities, students gain new skills in architecture, creative writing, digital arts, filmmaking, journalism, music, STEM, and performing and visual arts. Programs begin on June 25, 2018!

Sylvan Learning Center 850 Bronx River Rd., Bronxville 34 S Broadway #512, White Plains Bronxville 914-600-7179 White Plains 914-984-4438 sylvanlearning.com Avoid Summer Learning Loss at Sylvan! Summer workshops and STEM courses will boost your child’s confidence and enhance academic skills. Reading, Math, Writing and Study Skills workshops, plus new courses in Robotics and Coding, for students entering Grades K-9. Space is limited. Call Sylvan today for details and to reserve your space.

Twin Lakes Farm 960B California Road, Bronxville 914-961-2192 twinlakesfarm.com Twin Lakes Farm is a traditional riding academy maintaining more than 40 lesson horses of varying levels. Their goal is to expose children to English Riding in a safe and fun environment.

Summer camp is co-educational for ages 6 to 13, interested in friendship, horsemanship, riding and summer fun.

Squire Advantage Maria Regina School, Hartsdale 914-328-3798 squirecamps.com A camp for the child who wants it all. Children create their own schedule. Choose from over 50 different activities including photography, cooking, swimming, arts, robotics, sports and more. Campers may choose four, three or a total of seven weeks.

Hot lunch is included. Courses are taught by certified teachers.

Transportation available. Director: Matt Davanzo.

Squire Sports Camps Maria Regina High School, Hartsdale 914-328-3798 squirecamps.com Squire Sports Camps includes the Tennis Academy and an AllSports Academy. Squire offers top tier instruction and skill training from certified coaches. Campers may choose four, three or a total of seven weeks. Hot lunch and swimming is included. Transportation available. Director: Matt Davanzo.

Thornton Donovan Summer Challenge 100 Overlook Circle, New Rochelle 914-632-8836 td.edu Celebrating its 50th year, the Summer Challenge has been a source of joy, entertainment and enlightenment for boys and girls ages 3 to 14. Swimming instruction and recreational swim are a focal point, and the campus boasts one of the few outdoor instructional pools. Door-to-door transportation included.

EXPERIENCE MARINE SCIENCE

The

WHALE CAMP

at the

Fundy Marine Science Institute Face-to-face with whales, porpoises, puffins and lots of marine life

Saturdays from 11am-2pm on Feb. 3 • Mar. 3 • Apr. 7 • May 5

$40,000 Collegethat Make connections Scholarships Available will last a lifetime!

Ages 3 to 15 • Teachers in every group • 1:4 Ratio Lunch included • Swim Twice Daily • Towel Service Transportation • 4 Heated Pools • Sports • Archery Mini Golf • Tennis • Computers • Cooking Rocketry • Woodworking

HANDS-ON MARINE SCIENCE, OCEANOGRAPHY & WHALE RESEARCH ON GRAND MANAN ISLAND BETWEEN MAINE AND NOVA SCOTIA

Mention this Ad for a FREE Purchase Day Camp Drawstring Backpack!

Free Brochure & Info:

www.whalecamp.com Ask About:

Purchase Day Camp 2018 OPEN HOUSES

STEM Projects • Scholarships College Accredited Courses • Family Programs $40,000 College • College Accredited Programs STEM Projects Mention Keycode WC★LIP for $50/week Discount

t Contac s U !

TODAY

914-949-2636 PurchaseDayCamp.com

Regis t Onlin er e!

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.

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

27

Camp Directory // Special Advertising Supplement

Since 1941 … A summer of fun … A lifetime of memories A day at Camp Louemma is filled with possibilities and personal achievement. Our campers feel comfortable and enjoy success every day. We develop “Camp People” who look forward to giving back!

Athletics | Aquatics | Arts | Outdoors Skills | Day Trips | Overnights | More! $1000 TUITION SAVINGS FOR ALL FIRST YEAR CAMPERS 6 Week Full Summer: June 24 - Aug 5 Session One: June 24 - July 15 Session Two: July 15 - Aug 5 LOCATED IN SUSSEX, NJ

Call for more information and to schedule a tour (973) 287-7264 (ACA Accredited Overnight Camp)

www.camplouemma.com

Scarsdale Synagogue Temples Tremont & Emanu-El 2 Ogden Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583

Nursery School & Summer Programs

For Children 18 months through Age 5 www.sstte.org | 914-723-3001

Westchester Turf & Tennis 5 Browns Lane Hawthorne 914-592-3737 http://turfandtennis.com mikef@turfandtennis.com A premier level soccer camp geared for boys and girls ages 9-14. Steve Carson, director of Coaching FC Westchester Soccer Club runs the program July 2-Aug 17th from 9am-1pm. Coaches references and evaluation required.

Feature soccer, futsal, soccer-specific speed and strength training.

Email or call Mike Friedlander for details.

The Whale Camp, Inc./ MarineBiology Camps 610-399-1463 whalecamp.com Located on beautiful Grand Manan Island, named the third best small island in the world to visit! No other marine biology summer camp or marine science camp offers as many direct face to-face encounters to closely observe and study whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and puffins in their own natural habitat.

World Cup Schools 160 Hunts Lane Chappaqua 914-238-9267 worldcupgymnastics.com This fun summer camp for youths ages 5 1/2 - 12, combines superior gymnastics training with a traditional camp experience ensuring each camper has the best summer. Their state-of-the-art complex allows room to engage in tons of recreational activities and gymnastics. Each week there is an exciting field trip, arts & crafts, cooking and more.

Young at Art Studio Inc. Summer Art Camps 1088 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale 914-723-9229 youngatartworkshop.com Half-day weekly art camps for children aged 3-12. Each week features new art projects, with daily creative movement, games, and snack. Camps run through the last week in August. We teach the elements of fine art, while focusing on building self-esteem.

Professional teachers, small class sizes.

493 Sprain Road, Yonkers, NY 10710 914.968.6918 | yonkerstennis.com Like Yonkers Tennis Center on Facebook to stay up-to-date on all our latest happenings! @YonkersTennis

• • • • • • • • • • •

28

Westchester Family | January 2018

D.A.T Junior Program Summer Camp Programs Adult & Flex Clinics Private Lessons Tournaments Quickstart for Adult Beginners Men & Women’s Match Play USTA Summer League Play Women’s USTA Tournament Series Birthday Party & Facility Rentals Pickleball

AwARd winneR 2017 inSpectoRS cHoice!

Open HOuse and Carnival FeBruarY 3rd FrOm 1-4 pm

(Grades 1-9) located at Maria Regina HS, Hartsdale Transportation & Extended Day • Hot Lunch included

SquirecampS.com • 914-328-3798

LK

AFW

Summer Camp CHILDREN AGES 6-12 • FLEXIBLE WEEKS • NEW PLAYGROUND Outdoor Activities, Theater, Games, Cooking and Arts & Crafts No previous knowledge of French required 1 CROSS ROAD, ARDSLEY • 914.681.8735 • AFWESTCHESTERNY.ORG • LYCEUMKENNEDY.ORG January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

29

Ask the Specialist //

Donor Breast Milk Helps Premature Infants Thrive

By Janine Annett

B

efore she gave birth to premature twins at 26 weeks, Danielle Gerbino knew very little about the benefits of donor milk. But the mother of Ava and Savannah, now 1 year old, says she quickly learned just how important donor milk was during the hundreds of hours she spent in the Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (RNICU) at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, a member of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network.

Because of their delicate digestive systems, Ava and Savannah, could not tolerate formula and because Gerbino could not provide enough of her own milk, donor milk was the only safe alternative. Savannah, who spent 154 days in the hospital, and Ava, who was there for 114 days, received donor milk for more than 12 weeks, Gerbino says.

“To have the donor milk available was a huge relief,’’ says Gerbino. “Their tiny little digestive systems could not handle formula and a lot of moms cannot produce their own milk because of the stress. It made me realize how hard it must be for families of preemies who don’t have access to donor milk.’’

Alana Bellizzi, agrees. She credits donor milk for her now 15-month-old son Rocco’s progress. Rocco was born at 30 weeks and Bellizzi says while she was supplying some of her own milk, it wasn’t sufficient to feed Rocco. The fact that lactose intolerance runs in her family added to her concern about giving Rocco formula.

“Within his first two weeks, he received donor milk and it made a huge difference,’’ she says. “Now I shout about donor milk from the rooftops. I don’t think Rocco would be thriving the way he is without it.”

The Value of Human Milk Human milk is an essential component of health for all babies, but particularly for premature infants, for whom it can mean the difference between life and death. Premature infants are susceptible to serious infections including Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), a deadly disease which is found in 10 percent of premature infants under 30 weeks. Those

30

Westchester Family | January 2018

courtesy photo

Boriana Parvez, M.D., a neonatologist and director of the donor milk program at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital demonstrates the program’s state-of-the-art milk analyzer.

who survive can have long-term disabilities and require costly long-term care as a result.

Studies have shown that human milk helps to reduce the incidence of NEC, something that has proved to be true at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, which has seen the rate of NEC drop from 15 percent to 3.7 percent in the donor milk program’s first two years. All donor milk is pasteurized and sanitized for maximum safety.

“Exclusive human milk diet with mother’s own or donor milk or a combination of the two is the medical recommendation for all infants, but especially for premature infants, who have higher nutritional needs and are more susceptible to complications from exposure to formula,” says Boriana Parvez, M.D., a neonatologist at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital and the director of the donor milk program. “Our RNICU is committed to delivering the very best care to our region’s tiniest babies and providing the lifesaving benefits of human milk is an essential part of this commitment.”

The Donor Milk Program Parvez has been the driving force behind a groundbreaking donor milk program designed to improve the health of premature babies cared for at the hospital’s RNICU. For the past three years, Parvez, along with her colleagues at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, have built a comprehensive donor milk program from the ground up. The program has provided donor milk for more than 200 babies since its inception in 2015. Parvez and her colleagues wrote grant applications and were successful in obtaining more than $600,000 in funding for the program. The neonatology team’s efforts resulted in the

passage of a New York State legislative measure that now requires Medicaid to cover the cost of donated human milk for premature infants weighing less than 3 pounds. This can be a great expense for parents, costing an average of $120 a day to feed a full-term infant.

The donor milk program at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital took a huge leap forward this past fall with the purchase of a unique piece of technology that allows the analysis of human milk which works to ensure that infants are receiving the appropriate calorie and nutrient intake. Soon, the donor milk program will reach another important milestone with the addition of a milk pasteurizer, followed by the creation of a physical space that will house the hospital’s one-of-a-kind “Liquid Gold Preemie Milk Bank.” Pre-term milk is donated by carefully screened and medically cleared mothers of premature babies from the RNICU with abundant milk supply. Pre-term milk is richer in nutrients and protective factors when compared to term milk. Existing milk banks provide almost exclusively full term donor milk, donated by mothers of full term babies.

Gerbino says that the preemie milk bank would add another layer of comfort for moms and safety for premature infants like her daughters.

“Every factor is critical when it comes to preemies,’’ she says. “Anything that can be done to boost their health and immune systems is vital.’’

Janine Annett is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in outlets such as The New York Times, Real Simple, Woman’s World, Healthline, Huffington Post, Mommy Poppins and others.

2018 WeStcheSter FAMily

CAMP FAIRS

YOU’RE INVITED

Meet the directors and representatives of some of the best day camps and sleep away camps all under one roof.

Sending your child to camp is a big decision — make sure you select the right camp!

Children are welcome to attend. *Register for ir, the GPNY Camp Fa e fre a t ge and rd 10 Credit Arcade Ca dly ien -fr ily m to this fa ent indoor entertainm n. tio na desti One card per family.

JANUARY 13, 2018 Grand Prix New York 333 N. Bedford road, Mt. Kisco From Noon to 3 p.m.

JANUARY 14, 2018 Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club 555 S. Barry Ave., Mamaroneck From Noon to 3 p.m.

For more information, visit WestchesterFamily.com/CampFair

* Must be present at the camp Fair in Mt. Kisco to receive 10 credit arcade card.

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

31

Let's Go To ... //

When You Go …

Two New Attractions in Times Square Gulliver’s Gate and National Geographic Encounter Ocean Odyssey

Gulliver’s Gate 216 W. 44th St. (between 7th and 8th Avenues) gulliversgate.com Cost of Admission: adults 13+, $36; seniors 65+, $27; children ages 6-12, $27; 5 and under, free.

TIP: There is a $5 discount on tickets purchased online, and you’re assigned an entrance time. If you buy tickets on-site, you may have to wait for the next available time slot.

National Geographic Encounter Ocean Odyssey 226 W. 44th St. (between 7th and 8th Avenues) natgeoencounter.com Cost of Admission: adults 13+, $39.50; seniors 65+, $36.50; children ages 2-12, $32.50; under 2, free. (A portion supports the nonprofit National Geographic Society.)

TIP: Buy tickets online to avoid the ticket window. This gives you a reserved timed entrance; otherwise you must wait on-site for the next available time slot.

Courtesy photo

Gulliver’s Gate, a 50,000 square foot walk-through exhibit is a series of miniature displays of well-known sites (New York City’s Guggenheim Museum is shown above) in 25 cities across five continents.

By Traci L. Suppa

D

uring the winter months, my family’s idea of fun is a New York City day trip. We recently checked out two new – and very different – indoor attractions in Times Square.

Gulliver’s Gate With a name inspired by Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels, this 50,000 square foot walk-through exhibit is a series of miniature displays of well-known sites in 25 cities across five continents. Each piece is at a 1:87 scale, so a 6-foot-tall person is only 0.8 inches. In amazing and intricate detail, you’ll see the Empire State Building, Eiffel Tower, Buckingham Palace, the Great Wall of China, the Great Pyramids, and more. You start in New York City, with its 311 buildings, 6,000 windows, 33 yellow taxis, and 47 pizzas.

From there, it’s on to New England, Latin America, the Middle East, Asia, Europe and Russia.

Interactive elements make it even

32

Westchester Family | January 2018

more fun. Everyone gets a key that unlocks motorized elements. You turn it to operate dump trucks, move trains, awaken Zeus, or get the Loch Ness monster to emerge above water. You can take your picture in front of Niagara Falls, or for a (hefty) fee, you can have a “Model Citizen” figurine made in your likeness and added to the display.

Water features, sound, light and other special effects enhance the experience, changing scenes from day to night. Signage at each section explains how many model makers worked on the exhibit, and how long it took. There’s also a “Spot Me” challenge.

For example, in the Middle East, you can find Snoopy, the Obamas and the Fiddler on the Roof. In fact, the longer you spend watching, the more details you catch, like lights turning on and off in apartment windows.

If you have a train fan in your family, note that there are about 1,000 trains throughout. The longest track is 475 feet; the scale equivalent of about eight miles. Moving vehicles of all types travel through tunnels,

over bridges, through countryside and cities.

My daughter was particularly impressed by the barge coasting through a river’s locks.

The airport – the world’s largest model airport model – is the grand finale. “Swift Airlines” jets take off into the air every 15 minutes.

All ages are welcome here, and strollers are permitted. While I think there’s enough here to interest preschoolers, the issue is the height of the displays, which sit on waistlevel platforms. Plan to pick up and carry the younger members of your crew often so they can see everything.

National Geographic Encounter Ocean Odyssey Our next stop was literally two doors down from Gulliver’s Gate. We didn’t know what to expect before entering the National Geographic Encounter Ocean Odyssey.

My best guess was that it was going to be a virtual aquarium; but that turned out to be just a small part of it. This is a walk-through experience that simulates an overnight journey across the Pacific Ocean, beginning at the Solomon Islands and ending at the west coast of North America at sunrise. Through six different “underwater” scenes, you won’t feel one drop of real water.

You begin in The Shallows, on an interactive floor that looks like you’re

standing in the surf at the shoreline. As the waves roll in and out, you almost feel like you’re moving. Spotted sting rays swim underfoot. Then guides escort you through the Coral Reef, a 3D model where you learn about bioluminescence as you watch colors emerge under the black lights.

Next is an immersion into the Deep Ocean at Night, then a Squid Battle where you follow the images of two giant Humboldt squids baring 40,000 teeth. The Kelp Forest is a fun mirror maze that ends in a gallery where you “play” with sea lions on screens that react to your motions. In the Bait Ball, you stand in front of a 3D movie screen, watching increasingly larger creatures at feeding time. Spoiler alert: you end up in a whale’s stomach.

The final stop is Exploration Hall, where hands-on displays teach through hologram stations, laser games and a scavenger hunt.

There’s an underlying environmental message tying everything together. The point is clear – Earth’s majority of life is in the ocean, and humans must protect it.

Through it all, amazing technology is at play. My teenager was thoroughly impressed by the underwater creature sounds, sourced

Photo courtesy National Geographic Encounter Ocean Odyssey

Experience an interactive ocean floor at Encounter Ocean Odyssey in this walk-through experience that simulates an overnight journey across the Pacific Ocean.

from libraries all over the world, delivered through 230 loudspeakers. The life-size photos are recreated at 8K resolution at 60 frames per second.

This experience is best suited for school age children, in my opinion. The pitch-black Deep Ocean room has loud, startling sound

effects. The Kelp Forest could be confusing and frightening. Strollers are not permitted, and there are stairs.

Traci L. Suppa, frequent Westchester Family contributor, writes about travel, parenting and family life. WordScapesny.com.

YOUR PRE-SCHOOLER CAN LEARN TO READ

How would you like to feel?

Your child will learn 15-30 words in their first session!

HYPNOCLINIC in Westchester

1 (844) 554-9766 yes@hypnoclinic.com

A Miracle In The Making!”

- CBS TV • Your child will learn to read their first book fluently • It’s fun, easy and life’s most exciting game.

• One-on-One Instruction in a caring and nurturing environment • Ages 3 and older • 35 years certified experience • FREE Consultation Your pre-schooler or kindergartener will develop a love for reading & school!

Dicker Reading Method 75 Brook Street, Scarsdale

914.472.0600 • www.MommyICanRead.com

Lose weight now that the holidays are over.

I can help!

Jamie Feit, Registered Dietician 914-304-4008 • www.JamieFeitNutrition.com January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

33

34

Westchester Family | January 2018

Calendar

January

By Ann McGovern

Children can explore their senses in “Our Senses: An Immersive Experience” exhibition at the American Museum of Natural History.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience In this highly experiential exhibition a series of 11 funhouse-like galleries dare visitors to rely on their senses ¬– and then reveal how and why what we perceive is not all, or exactly, what’s occurring around us. Explore hearing, balancing, touch, smell and more. Daily, 10am–5:45pm; Jan. 1 – Jan. 30. For all ages. General admission: $23 adults, $13 children ages 2-12. One special exhibition, film and Space Show, $28 adults, $16.50 children ages 2-12. Reservations not required.

American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at West 79th Street, Upper West Side, New York. 212–769–5200. amnh.org.

Courtesy photo

Calendar What’s Inside Editor’s Pick: 2018 Camp Fairs

38

Editor’s Pick: Native American Series

40

Celebrate MLK Day

41

Connecticut Corner

42

City Picks

43

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

35

Calendar January //

1 Monday

All Aboard with Thomas and Friends. Thomas & Friends™ are pulling into the station. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet Really Useful Engine and get your photo taken. Join Thomas on a fun-filled, sing along performance, Thomas’ Budding Adventure, where kids help Thomas discover the steps to grow a beautiful garden! Various times, until Jan. 15. For all ages. $30 adults, $18 children 2-12, free under 2. Reservations required.

New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. 718–817–8700. nybg. org.

Mega Making Exhibit. Designed to encourage creativity in all children, this interactive exhibit gives kids the materials, tools and help from museum educators to become “makers.” Children work with needles and thread, screwdrivers and batteries, art supplies and more, to transform ideas into reality. Daily, 10am–5pm; until Feb. 28. For all ages. $15. Reservations not required. Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk, Conn. 203–899–0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

Sea Turtle Nursery. The Aquarium is featuring a special exhibit featuring a rescued baby loggerhead sea turtle, who will be followed through its first year of life, before being released into the ocean next fall. Daily, 10am–6pm, until Feb. 28. For all ages. $22.95 adults, $15.95 children. Reservations not required. Maritime Aquarium, 10 North Water St.,

Courtesy Photo

The Delaware Valley Raptor Center introduces you to the fascinating world of raptors at the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum. See Jan. 20.

Norwalk, Conn. 203–852–0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

Springs Sprockets and Pulleys. This exhibit glorifies crazy contraptions that spin, rock, make music, and move around! Sculptor Steve Gerberich creates outlandish large-scaled kinetic sculptures and installations out of old machine parts, kitchen utensils, toys and carnival figurines. It’s art in motion and crazy fun! Mondays – Saturdays, 9am–5pm, Sundays, 11am–5pm, until Feb. 3. For all ages. Free with Museum admission: $10 adults, $5 children. Reservations not required.

Stamford Museum and Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Rd., Stamford, Conn. 203–322–1646.

2 Tuesday

The Bronx Zoo. Come see giraffes, lions, birds, penguins and more. As a special treat, there are now five young gorillas at the Congo Gorilla Exhibit - watch their playful interactions with their parents and each other.

Check website for specific winter schedule. Daily, 10am–4:30pm; Jan. 2 – Jan. 31. For all ages. Total Experience tickets $28.95 adults, $20.95 children ages 3-12, 2 and under free. All day parking $16.

Reservations not required. Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd. at Boston Road, University Heights. 718–220– 5103. bronxzoo.com.

New Exhibit at KMA. “Objects Out Loud,” is a stunning new exhibit at the Museum, combining the works of two contemporary artists, Nick Cave and Arman. This exhibition includes 20 works of sculpture, film and photography.

Both artists’ works are bold and full of symbolic meaning and social commentary. Tuesdays – Saturdays, 10am–5pm, Sundays, noon–5pm, until Jan. 7. For all ages. Free with museum admission. Reservations not required.

Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay St., Katonah. 914–232–9555. katonahmuseum.org.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi in IMAX. It doesn’t get much big-

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 February 2018 calendar must reach us by December 30, 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.

36

Westchester Family | January 2018

ger than the latest installment of Star Wars, except if you’re watching The Last Jedi on a six-story IMAX screen! In an unprecedented move, The Maritime Aquarium is suspending its regular schedule of 40-minute IMAX documentaries for one month to present only The Last Jedi. Episode VIII continues the saga of Luke, Leia, Rey, Finn, and your other favorite Star Wars characters in that galaxy far, far away. Daily, 1pm, 4pm, 7pm and 10pm, until Jan. 15. $15 for adults, and youths ages 13-17, $12.50 for children ages 3-12. The Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water Street, Norwalk, Conn. 203–852–0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Mummies. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick page 35.

3 Wednesday

Mother Nature’s Storytime.

Children, along with a parent or caregiver, enjoy days at the Nature Center with nature-themed stories, nature walks, live animals, and/or crafts. Dress for outdoor activity.

Except in extreme weather conditions, a portion of each class is spent outdoors. Class size limited to 12. Daily, 10am–11am; Jan. 3 – Feb. 7. For ages 2 - 4. $90/child and caregiver for all six sessions. Reservation required. Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd., Scarsdale.

914–723–3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Itsy Bitsy Play Group. See Connecticut Corner page 42.

Mummies. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

Wednesday Crafternoons.

See Connecticut Corner page 42.

4 Thursday

The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Victor Hugo’s epic story of love, acceptance, and what it means to be a hero becomes an unforgettable musical when paired with the Academy Awardnominated score from the Disney film of the same name. Introduce your kids to 15th-century Paris, Quasimodo, Esmeralda, and some truly beautiful music. 11am Jan. 4; 7pm Jan. 5, 6, 12, 13; 2pm Jan. 7, 10 and 14. For children 10 and up.

Starting at $33. Reservations required. White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Place, White Plains.

914–328–1600. wppac.com.

Museum Minis. A half an hour of songs, moving and plenty of fun! Meet up in Toddler Beach for social play, muscle and brain builders, tumbling and jumping, music and instruments, dancing, and story time. Group size is limited, first come first serve. 10:30–11am today and Jan. 11, 18 and 25. For children ages 18-24 months. Free with admission $7 per person. Reservations not required. Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye. 914–421–5050. discoverwcm.org/new-events.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

IT’S A FAMILY TRADITION!

WESTCHESTER COUNTY CENTER 3!4 s &%"

THRU

-/. s &%"

WHITE PLAINS

$!),9 3(/74)-%3 AM s PM s PM

ALL SEAT RESERVED: 02%-)5- s 2%'5,!2 BOX OFFICE HOURS: Tuesday - Friday

OR AT ALL

AM s PM 914-995-4050 #!3( /2 #2%$)4

800-745-3000

/54,%43

4)#+%4-!34%2 #/-

Box ofďŹ ce closed Saturday to Monday except for ticketed events held that day.

Mummies. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

5 Friday

Evergreen Express. Hop aboard our play train and pretend to ride the rails! Hike winter trails and find evergreen trees and shrubs. Warm up inside the cozy Discovery Center while learning more about amazing evergreen plants. Make a festive evergreen swag bundle to brighten up your home. classic train songs led by

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

37

Calendar January // E d ito r ’s Pi ck

Ralph’s banjo-playing musician and about every 45 minutes, follow the costumed train and engineer on a musical parade through the Adventure Garden.

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 1:30pm-5:30pm; Wednesdays 1:30pm-5:30pm; Saturdays and Sundays 10am-5:30pm, until Jan. 21. For all ages. Weekdays $23 adults, $10 children ages 2-12, under 2 free. Weekends $30, $18 children ages 2-12. Reservations required. New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx.

718–817–8700. nybg.org.

Fish Tales. Toddlers and their caregivers enjoy fish-themed stories, songs and activities during a fun morning get together. The games and stories encourage children’s emerging language skills, and are followed by a period of free play. Children must be able to sit quietly with their grown-up.

Fridays, 10:15am, Jan. 5 – Jan. 26.

For toddlers, up to age 5. Free with admission: $22.95 adults, $15.95 children. Reservations not required. Limited space, first come first served. Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, Conn.

203–852–0700. maritimeaquarium. org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Mummies. See City Picks page43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

6 Saturday

Chinese New Year Art Workshop. Celebrate the Chinese New Year by constructing mythical Chinese animals with wood, paper and paint. 9:30– 11:30am. For all ages. Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult. $15. Reservations not required. Mamaroneck Artists Guild, 126 Larchmont Ave., Larchmont.

914–834–1117. mamaroneckartistsguild.org.

38

2018 Camp Fairs

about the weight of water, tree rings, and more. Designed by Teaching Scientist-in-Residence Dr. Allegra N. LeGrande. 1–4pm today and Jan. 13, 20 and 27. For all ages. $6 adults, $3 youth. Reservations not required. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers.

914–963–4550. hrm.org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Trying to find the perfect summer camp for your children? Come to the 2018 Westchester Family Camp Fairs and get all the information you need to make the right decision. Camp directors and representatives from many of the best day camps and sleep-away camps are ready to meet you and answer all your questions.

Children are welcome to attend! Jan. 13 at Grand Prix New York, 333 N. Bedford Rd., Mt. Kisco Jan. 14 at Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club, 555S. Barry Rd., Mamaroneck. Families that register for the Grand Prix New York Camp Fair receive a free 10-credit Arcade Card. One card per family, must be present to receive. Register now! Noon–3pm For all ages. Free. Register at WestchesterFamily. com/CampFair.

Family Art Project: Create Your Year—Hello 2018!

Check out a farmer’s monthly seed calendar explaining what fruits and vegetables to plant when.

What do you want to see grow in 2018? Create an abundant garden or personal vision for your very own calendar at this signature Wave Hill program. Free with admission to grounds. Grounds admission free until noon. 10am– 1pm today and Jan. 7. For all ages.

Reservations not required. Wave Hill, W. 249th St., and Independence Ave., Riverdale. 718–549–3200. wavehill.org.

Family Studio Projects.

Creative activities are led every weekday day by junior docents and professionals in the fields of art and science. There are art projects every Saturday and Sunday.

Choose your own perspective to create landscape artworks inspired by “Walks with Artists: The Hudson Valley and Beyond”. Saturdays and Sundays, 1–4pm, Jan. 6 – Jan. 28.

Ages 7 and up. $6 adults, $3 children. Reservations not required.

Hudson River Museum, 511 Warbur-

Westchester Family | January 2018

ton Ave., Yonkers. 914–963–4550. hrm.org.

First Saturday Art Workshop. Drop in for a hands-on art workshop led by fine arts and crafts specialists from craft store A.I. Friedman. 11am–3pm. For all ages. $7 per person, free under 12 months. Reservations not required. Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye. 914–421–5050. discoverwcm.org/ new-events.

Music with Graham Clarke. Rock out at the Rye Free Reading Room when popular children’s musician Graham Clarke performs. Kids love Graham’s silly humor and fun songs and will enjoy moving and grooving to the beat. 11– 11:45am. For toddlers and preschool children. Reservations not required. Mount Pleasant Public Library, 350 Bedford Road, Pleasantville, NY 10570, Mount Pleasant.

914–769–0548.

Science Projects. Learn how to uncover the history of a landscape through interactive workshops

Mummies. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

7 Sunday

Brrr! It’s Cold Outside.

Winter is the most stressful time of year for New York’s wildlife. But animals have strategies for survival in winter – hibernation, migration, or toughing it out. Learn all about the physical and behavioral adaptations animals use in the winter!

Admission includes entrance to the Wildlife Education Center.

10am–4pm. For all ages. $7 adults, $5 children. Reservations not required. Hudson Highlands Nature Museum Outdoor Discovery Center, Muser Drive across from 174 Angola Rd., Cornwall. 845–534–5506, ext.

2014. hhnm.org.

Drop in Art Class. This is a one-time-only opportunity for artists to drop in and try their hand at clay. It’s a fun and messy introduction to ceramics, guided by a professional. Materials are included and projects can be picked up 2-3 weeks after class. 2–4pm today and Jan. 14, 21 and 28. For ages 5 and up. $30 adult, $20 children. Reservations required. Clay Art Center, 40 Beech St., Port Chester.

914–937–2047. clayartcenter.org.

Party Planning Showcase. Come meet over 30 vendors specializing in entertainment, photography, décor, flowers and more at the Temple’s annual showcase.

Open to the community. 11am1pm. For all ages. Reservations

not required. Temple Sholom, 300 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, Conn.

Conn. 203–869–7191.

Seal-Spotting & Birding Cruises. Get out on the Long Island Sound for some memorable family fun. These two-and-a-half hour cruises seek out some of the seals and waterfowl that spend their winters just off the shores of The Maritime Aquarium. Binoculars provided. Make sure to bring plenty of warm clothes! 10am today; 2pm Jan. 13 and 14; 1pm Jan. 27 and 28. All participants must be at least 42 inches tall. $22.95.

Reservations are strongly recommended. Dates and times for these cruises are tide-dependent. The Maritime Aquarium, 10 North Water St., Norwalk, Conn. 203–852–0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Mummies. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

8 Monday

Free Week of Dance.

Experience the Joy of Dance at the Steffi Nossen School of Dance.

During the “Free Week of Dance� every core and technique class has an open door. Start the New Year dancing! Try unlimited age and level appropriate classes in ballet, modern, jazz, tap, hip hop as well as parent and toddler classes and classes for kids with special needs.

Call for class schedule. For all ages. Reservations are required.

Steffi Nossen School of Dance, 216 Central Park Ave., White Plains.

914–328–1900.

Mother Goose Time.

Rhymes, songs and stories that encourage early literacy skills for the littlest library-goer from birth to 2 years old with caregiver. To make sure everyone is safe and comfortable, tickets are given out on a first-come, first-served

basis 30 minutes before the start of program. Please arrive early.

11–11:30am today Jan. 22 and 29.

For birth to 2 years with caregiver. Reservations not required.

White Plains Library, 100 Martine Ave., White Plains. 914–422–1476. whiteplainslibrary.org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 43.

FAMILY SERIES 2018 EVENTS Shows at 11AM & 1:30PM | All tickets $15

CURIOUS GEORGE: THE GOLDEN MEATBALL | SUN, FEB 11 DOKTOR KABOOM! LIVE WIRE! THE ELECTRICITY TOUR! | SUN, MAR 11 LIGHTWIRE THEATRE PRESENTS DINO LIGHT | SUN, MAR 25 THIS FEBRUARY BREAK AT THE EMELIN!

9 Tuesday

Playland Ice. Public skating sessions are held seven days a week at this Rye institution, on either the Main or Studio Rinks. Check the website for times. Daily, See website for times. Through Jan. 31. For all ages. $9.75, $7.75 children, $4.25 skate rental. Reservations not required. Playland Ice, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye. 914–481–5941.

Acting Camp

Mon-Sat | Feb 19-24 Children Ages 6-16 Everyone gets a part! $165-$195/week

for tickets & more info

emelin.org | 914.698.0098 153 library lane mamaroneck, ny 10543

Trains & Tracks. Stop by the library for free play with their huge collection of Thomas and Friends Trains. 11am–noon.

For all ages. Reservations not required. Field Library, 4 Nelson Ave., Peekskill. 914–737–0847. peekskill. org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 43.

10 Wednesday

Makers & Shakers Afterschool Club. This four-week, drop-off program allows children to explore, build and experiment with scientific concepts using Museum exhibits in a small group environment with Museum educators. Jan. 10, Roller Coaster Challenge; Jan. 17, The Cantilever Bridge; Jan. 24, One of Mother Nature’s Most Interesting Forces; Jan. 31, What Floats Your Boat? Space is limited. Wednesdays, 4:30– 5:30pm. For students in grades

845-268-4000

www.BounceValleyCottage.com 612 Corporate Way, Valley Cottage, NY 4WITTER "OUNCE3PORT s &ACEBOOK COM "OUNCE4RAMPOLINE3PORTS January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

39

Calendar January // E d ito r ’s Pi ck

3-5. $120 per child. Registration required. Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Parkway, Rye. 914–421–5050. discoverWCM.org

Native American Series

Planetarium Shows. Expand your world and see a planetarium show. See “Earth, Moon and Sun” and learn how the Earth, Moon and Sun work together as a team.

Show is 26 minutes long with a question and answer session afterwards. Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30. Today – Jan. 28. For ages 5 and up. $6 adults, $3 children plus Planetarium entrance: $4 adults, $3 children ages 3-18. Reservations not required. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers.

914–963–4550. hrm.org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Itsy Bitsy Play Group. See Connecticut Corner page 42.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

Wednesday Crafternoons.

See Connecticut Corner page 42.

11 Thursday

A Chorus Line. For 17 dancers, this audition is the chance of a lifetime. It’s what they’ve worked for – with every drop of sweat, every hour of training, every day of their lives. It’s the opportunity to do what they’ve dreamed – to have the chance to dance. Winner of nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this powerhouse musical is funny and exhilarating.

Daily, Check website for times.

Jan. 11 – April 1. For older children and adults. $57-$84. Reservations required. Westchester Broadway Theatre, One Broadway Plaza, Elmsford. 914–592–2222. broadwaytheatre.com.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Museum Minis. See Jan. 4.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

12 Friday

Fun with Toddlers.

Songs, games, activities, and stories for children 20 to 29 months old with caregivers. For children “Almost Two” and “Just Two”! Today’s program: “Five Little Penguins.” On Jan. 26, “Five Little Kittens.” To ensure the comfort and safety of patrons, tickets are given out 30 minutes before the program starts. Please arrive early.

40

1 N. Broadway, White Plains, NY, 10601, White Plains. 914–946–4433. playgroup.org/theatre-programs/ mainstage.php.

Courtesy photo

Meet master storyteller Jonathan Kruk and listen to Native American tales.

Master storyteller, Jonathan Kruk, tells “Native American and Animal Stories”. This interactive program gives kids the chance to become the animals featured in the stories. This is the first in a series of storytelling programs. 11am–noon. Jan. 27. For families and children ages 4-12. $10. Reservations required. Westmoreland Sanctuary, 260 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Mount Kisco. 914–666–8448. westmorelandsanctuary.org.

11–11:30am today and Jan. 26. For ages 20-29 months with caregiver. Reservations not required.

White Plains Library, 100 Martine Ave., White Plains. 914–422–1476. whiteplainslibrary.org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

artists guide themed weekly projects. Materials are included; projects are fired and can be picked up 2-3 weeks after class. Saturdays, 2–4pm, until Feb. 28. For ages 5 and up. $30 adults, $20 children.

Tickets go on sale day of class at 10am. Clay Art Center, 40 Beech St., Port Chester. 914–937–2047. clayartcenter.org.

Fish Tales. See Jan. 5.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

13 Saturday

Drop-In Clay Class. A fun and messy introduction to clay for all ages. This one-time drop in class is an introduction to clay for the whole family. Professional ceramic

Westchester Family | January 2018

Guys and Dolls. Considered to be the perfect musical comedy, this Tony Award winner follows the antics of some small-time gamblers testing their luck on love.

Take a delightful musical romp from the heart of Times Square to the cafes of Havana, Cuba. 8pm today and Jan. 20; 2pm Jan. 14, 15 and 21. For all ages. $18 adults, $15 children under 12. Reservations required. The Play Group Theatre,

Underwater Bubble Show.

Plunge into a glistening blend of laser technology, snow cannons, soap-bubble tornadoes, and optical illusions as the effervescent Mr. B is transported to Bubblelandia, a blissful ocean utopia where colors explode and dreams take flight. Inspired by the artistry of Cirque du Soleil, this lavish Latvian production features drama, mime, dance, puppetry, juggling, sand art, and theatrical magic. 7pm. For all ages. $16-$40. Reservations required.

The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford, Conn. 203–325–4466.

Westchester Family 2018 Camp Fairs. Come to the 2018 Westchester Family Camp Fairs and get all the information you need to make the right decision.

Camp directors and representatives from many of the best day camps and sleep-away camps are ready to meet you and answer all your questions. Children are welcome to attend! Jan. 13 at Grand Prix New York, 333 N. Bedford Rd., Mt. Kisco. Jan. 14 at Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club, 555 S. Barry Rd., Mamaroneck.

Families that register for the Grand Prix New York Camp Fair receive a free 10-credit Arcade Card. One card per family, must be present to receive. Register now! Noon– 3pm. For all ages. Free. Register at WestchesterFamily.com/CampFair.

Winter Farm Tour.

During the cold-weather months there is still much to see, experience and learn about on the farm.

Just stroll the grounds or take a Make the Rounds Tour from noon12:30pm and a Meet the Animals or Vegetables from 1:30-2pm.

Saturdays and Sundays, 10am– 5pm, through Jan. 28. For all ages.

Reservations not required. Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, 630 Bedford Rd., Pocantico Hills.

914–366–6200. stonebarnscenter. org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Family Art Project: Freedom Quilting Bee. See Celebrate MLK Day page 41.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

14 Sunday

Cardboard Explosion. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind puppetry experience! Original stories come to life using nothing but cardboard and the power of your imagination. With help from the audience, puppeteer Brad Shur transforms simple cardboard shapes into elaborate puppet characters, then brings them to life right before your eyes. Get ready to outsmart dragons, choose-your-own superpower, and train adorable animal sidekicks in this fun, energetic, participatory show. 3pm. $12.50.

For ages 5 and up Reservations required. The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic Street, Stamford, Conn.

203–325–4466.

Feeding Fun. It’s mealtime for the animals! Join naturalists for a hands-on program and learn about the care that goes into feeding the Museum’s indoor animals as well as birds of prey and barnyard. 1–2 pm. For all ages. $8. Reservations not required.

Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd., Scarsdale. 914–723–3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Celebrate MLK DAY A Raisin in the Sun. In honor of MLK Day see this timeless classic. Featuring star-making performances from the entire cast, including Sidney Poitier, Ruby Dee, and Louis Gossett Jr., A Raisin in the Sun is the story of one black family’s desperate pursuit of the American dream. Adapted

by Lorraine Hansberry from her own Pulitzer prizewinning play. 5:30pm. Jan. 15. For all ages. $13.

Reservations not required. Jacob Burns Film Center, 405 Manville Road, Pleasantville. burnsfilmcenter.org.

Community Curation Family Day. Create a piece of artwork inspired by MLK’s values of compassion, love, courage, forgiveness, and community and hang it on the Museum’s walls among other visitors’ works of art, contribute to a community sculpture and give back by donating a canned food item to the food drive. At 11am and 1pm, listen, move, sing, and co-create songs with Cyd Slotoroff.

Seating limited. Receive one free museum admission for each nonperishable food item donated.

10am–4pm. Jan. 15. $10 adults, $8 children, free for under 5. For ages 4 – 8. Reservations not required.

The Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Dr., Greenwich, Conn.

203–413–6770. brucemuseum.org.

Family Art Project: Freedom Quilting Bee. In 1966, Martin Luther King, Jr., visited the Gee’s Bend Community in rural Alabama and the Freedom Quilting Bee was established. These now-famous quilts would later go on to fund aspects of the community’s freedom. Create your own brilliant, improvisational compositions out of bountiful squares of donated fabric. 10am–1pm Jan. 13 and 14. For all ages. Grounds and activities admission free until noon, after activity is free with admission $8 adults, $2 children ages 2-18.

Reservations not required. Wave Hill, 675 W. 252nd

Courtesy photo

See the artwork, “Martin Luther King” by Paul Giovanopoulos at the Bruce Museum and participate in Community Curation Family Day on Jan. 15.

St., Bronx, NY. 718–549–3200.

Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Library Barnes & Noble Book Fair. The Library holds a series of free events during the Barnes & Nobles Book Fair that benefits the Library. Events include arts & crafts, story time, author readings and talks and music. 11am–4pm. Jan. 15. For all ages.

Reservations not required. Barnes & Nobles, 230 Main St., White Plains. 914–525–3076.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Westchester Family 2018 Camp Fairs. See Jan. 13.

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

Family Art Project: Freedom Quilting Bee. See Celebrate MLK Day page 41.

15 Monday

Winter Wolves on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Learn about the mythology, biology and ecology of wolf families and discover why this season is such a magical time for packs in North America. Visit Ambassador Wolves Atka, Alawa, Nikai, and Zephyr as well as the WCC’s critically endangered red wolves and Mexican gray wolves. Guests enjoy hot beverages in our woodstove-

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

Stam-Pede. See City Picks page 43.

Afternoon Studios: Clay Play. Come get your hands dirty while learning the basics of modeling and terracotta clay. All visitors can take their sculptures home the same day! 2–4pm. For all ages.

Free with Museum admission, $10 adults, $5 students 13 and up, free 12 and under. Reservations not required. The Aldrich Contemporary

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

41

Calendar January // heated classroom. Please dress for cold weather. 11am. For all ages. $15 adults, $12 children under 12. Reservations required. Wolf Conservation Center. 914–753–2373. nywolf.org.

Connecticut Corner

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

All Aboard with Thomas and Friends. See Jan. 1.

Itsy Bitsy Play Group. See Connecticut Corner page 42.

A Raisin in the Sun. See Celebrate MLK Day page 41.

Makers & Shakers Afterschool Club. See Jan. 10.

Community Curation Family Day. See Celebrate MLK Day page 41.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Library B & N Book Fair. See Celebrate MLK Day page 41.

16 Tuesday

Full Moon Wolf Walk.

Celebrate the first full moon of 2018 (a.k.a. the “Wolf Moon”) with wolves! Keep warm by the outdoor fire pit, and enjoy warm drinks, sugary treats and likely the symphony of howls from the 30 wolves that call the WCC home. Learn about the history of wolves in the United States, the importance of wolves in a healthy ecosystem and the efforts to save these magnificent creatures for future generations. Please bring flashlights.

6pm. For all ages. $20. Reservations required. Wolf Conservation Center. 914–753–2373. nywolf.org.

Studio Tots. Play with printmaking and discover how different textures and materials make marks.

Using craft foam, toys, rollers and paint create one-of-a-kind prints that combine processes and colors to display in The Studio, or take home! 10–11am. For ages 2-5. $15.

Reservations strongly advised The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, 258 Main St., Ridgefield, Conn.

42

Westchester Family | January 2018

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

17 Wednesday

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Wednesday Crafternoons.

See Connecticut Corner page 42.

Courtesy photo

Help LEGO® experts create an enormous Aquarium-themed scene using everyone’s favorite building blocks during LEGO Weekend.

Itsy Bitsy Play Group. 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. You do not have to be a member of the Temple to participate. 10:30–11:30am Jan 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31. For all ages. Reservations not required. Temple Sholom, 300 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, Conn. Conn. 203–869–7191. CT LEGO® Weekend. Help LEGO® experts create an enormous Aquarium-themed scene using everyone’s favorite building blocks during LEGO Weekend. LEGO experts from Play-Well TEKnologies engineer a big fun project made entirely out of LEGO blocks in Newman’s Own Hall (near the seals). The experts create the scene, but it needs animals! Aquarium guests can build a small LEGO marine creature to be a part of the finished piece, or create pieces of their choosing. Look for additional LEGO-focused activities in the Aquarium during the special weekend. Daily, 10am–5pm; Jan. 27 – Jan. 28. For all ages. Free with admission, $22.95 adults, $20.95 youths ages 13-17, $15.95 children ages 3 -12. Reservations not required. The Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, Conn.

203–852–0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

Wednesday Crafternoons. Each Wednesday the Nature Center offers drop-in craft projects for youngsters. On Jan. 3, “Create Your Own Hand Warming Mittens”; Jan. 10, “Craft Your Own Squarely Friend”; Jan. 17, “Craft Your Own Snowflake”; Jan. 24, “Craft Your Own Animal Footprint Masterpiece”; Jan. 31, “Create Your Own Popsicle Snowman”. 10am–3pm. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. New Canaan Nature Center, 144 Oenoke Ridge, New Canaan, Conn. 203–966–9577. CT

18 Thursday

Bolshoi Ballet’s The Taming of the Shrew. Acclaimed choreographer Jean-Christophe Maillot entertains with his vision of Shakespeare’s battle of the sexes. Set to Dmitri Shostakovich’s colorful music, the tale of an ill-tempered young woman who meets her match is a battle of wits between stormy individualist Katharina (Ekaterina Krysanova) and smug Petruchio (Vladislav Lantratov). Maillot brings out the fast-paced athleticism of the Bolshoi Ballet dancers as the two leads clash and eventually fall for one another. 2pm. For all ages. $30.

Reservations not required. Jacob Burns Film Center, 405 Manville Road Pleasantville, NY 10570. burnsfilmcenter.org.

Funky Dawgz Brass Band.

The Funky Dawgz Brass Band are one of the premier touring acts on the live music scene today. Emerging from Connecticut, these young men have engulfed the spirit and traditions of New Orleans. They play an upbeat mix of traditional New Orleans R&B, original music, hip hop, funk, and today’s top hits with a brass twist. The band frequently gives performances and

master classes to young musicians in elementary, middle and high schools across the region. 8pm.

For all ages. $20, $25. Reservations required. Paramount Hudson Valley Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill.

914–739–0039. paramounthudsonvalley.com/events/funky-dawgzbrass-band.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Museum Minis. See Jan. 4.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

19 Friday

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Fish Tales. See Jan. 5.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

20 Saturday

City Picks 16th Annual Holiday Transit Show.

Dazzling children and adults, the display features Lionel trains traveling along a 34’ long, two-level, “O” gauge model train layout. Departing from a miniature replica of Grand Central Terminal on their way to the North Pole, this year’s exhibition showcases the Transit Museum’s Lionel MetroNorth, Polar Express, and vintage subw ay train sets. Weekdays, 8am-8pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-6pm, until Feb. 4. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. NY Transit Museum at Grand Central Station, 89 E. 42nd St. at Park Avenue, New York. 212–878–0106. nytransitmuseum.org.

Touch-a-Boat Tour. The New York Boat Show drops anchor at the Jacob Javitz Center this month with the new Touch-a-Boat Tour featuring actual working vessels from the NY Fire Department and a variety of recreational boats throughout the show floor. Kids can climb aboard, talk with to captains, snap a pic at the helm and learn the ropes of life on the high seas. Noon–9pm Jan. 24, 25, 26; 10am–9pm Jan. 27; 10am-6pm Jan. 28. For all ages. $16 adults, children 12 and under free accompanied by adult. Reservations not required. Jacob Javitz Center, 655 W. 34th St., New York. NYBoatShow.com.

Close Encounters with Birds of Prey. The Delaware Valley Raptor Center introduces you to the fascinating world of raptors. Be enthralled as you experience the majesty of hawks, falcons, owls, and eagles up close, while gaining an understanding of how important these birds are to the balance of nature. Leave the program with a greater respect and appreciation for these magnificent birds! 6–8pm. For all ages. $15, adults and children. Reservations not required. Hudson Highlands Nature Museum Wildlife Education Center, 25 Boulevard, Cornwall on Hudson. 845–534–5506, ext. 204. hhnm.org.

10:30am–2pm. For ages 3 and up.

Reservations not required. Jacob Burns Film Center, 405 Manville Road Pleasantville. burnsfilmcenter.org.

JBFC Kids Day. Participate in fun hands-on activities and a family-friendly shorts program featuring recent student work and festival favorites. Enjoy watching, animating and coloring together.

You can also visit the Media Arts Lab, where the education programs are held, for free tours.

One River School of Art + Design Grand Opening Weekend. Come celebrate the grand opening of One River School of Art + Design’s new Larchmont location with artist talks, meet and greet with staff, instructors and art workshops for all ages. 10am–5pm today and

Stam-Pede. A blockbuster afternoon of the best in percussive dance by seven celebrated companies. From lively tap dance to innovative body percussion, and from exhilarating Irish dance to gorgeous Indian Kathak, this impressive collection of companies offers a one-stop feast for those who love the power and precision of this dynamic genre. Appropriate for ages 5 and up; expected run time is 120 minutes. 3 pm. Jan. 14.

For ages 2-7. $17. Reservations required. Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at W. 94th St., New York.

© 2015 The Field Museum, A115204d_012C, photographer John Weinstei

A thousand years ago, this false head would have sat atop a mummy of the Chancay culture in what is now Peru. On view until Jan. 7.

212–864–5400. symphonyspace.org.

Mummies. Get an up-close look at one of the largest collections of mummies housed in North America. Through high-resolution CT scans and forensically reconstructed sculptures, visitors can glimpse people from centuries ago and learn how contemporary scientists have gleaned stunning details about their ages, practices, and even their causes of death. Interactive touch tables let visitors virtually “unravel” or see inside the mummies.

Daily, 10am-5:45pm. Jan 2 – 7. $27 adults, $16 for children. American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at W. 79th Street, New York.

212–769–5200. amnh.org.

Jan. 21. For all ages. Reservations required for arts workshops. One River School of Art + Design, 2081 Boston Post Rd., Larchmont. 914– 893–6111. larchmont,oneriverschool. com.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

21 Sunday

Family Gallery Tours. This interactive, discussion-based tour of the Museum’s current exhibitions, including the new exhibit, “Patriotic Persuasion: American Posters of the First World War.” Make sure to see “Changes in Our Land,” an ongoing visual display of the environmental and historical development of the local area that includes a minerals gallery, wigwam, life-size woodland habitat and a

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

43

Calendar January // live animal marine tank. 11:30am– 12:15pm today and Jan. 28. For all ages. $10 adults, $8 children, free under 5. Reservations not required.

The Bruce Museum. 203–413–6740. brucemuseum,org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

One River School of Art + Design Grand Opening Weekend. See Jan. 20.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

Courtesy Photo

22 Monday

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Mother Goose Time. See Jan. 8.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

23 Tuesday

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

24 Wednesday

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Itsy Bitsy Play Group. See Connecticut Corner page 42.

Makers & Shakers Afterschool Club. See Jan. 10.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

Touch-a-Boat Tour. See City Picks page 43.

Wednesday Crafternoons.

See Connecticut Corner page 42.

44

“The Underwater Bubble Show” plunges you into a glistening blend of laser technology, snow cannons, soapbubble tornadoes and optical illusions. See Jan. 13.

25 Thursday

Teacher in the Library. Are after-school “homework help” held by a certified teacher for elementary school students (K-6). This is NOT a tutoring program. First come, first served.

Please call ahead during inclement weather. 4:45–7:45. For elementary school students. Reservations not required. John C. Hart Memorial Library, 1130 E. Main St., Shrub Oak. 914–245–5262.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Museum Minis. See Jan. 4.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick see page 35.

Touch-a-Boat Tour. See City Picks page 43.

26 Friday

The Addams Family. Random Farms Kids’ Theater presents this story of this lovable family of creepy kooks is alive and well and living in their super-spooky mansion in Central Park. 8pm today; 7pm Jan. 27; 2pm and 7pm Jan. 28.

For all ages. $23-$18. Reservations required. Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St., Tarrytown. tarrytownmusichall.com.

Westchester Family | January 2018

Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Based on Disney’s classic animated film, this fishy fable with its colorful characters and irresistible songs. Presented by Clocktower Players Jr. Teen Troupe.

7pm today and Jan. 27. For all ages. $20 adult, $15 students in advance. $3 more at the door. Reservations are required. Irvington Town Hall Theater, 85 Main St., Irvington.

845–797–9183. seethewish.com.

Stroller Tours at KMA. Stroller tours at the KMA are a unique opportunity to connect with other new parents and caregivers seeking culturally enriching activities to share with their babies. These conversational tours refresh your spirit and expand your mind. Enjoy a new topic each month followed by coffee and snacks. Crying babies welcome!

For adults with children under 18 months. 9:30am–10:30am.

Adults with children under 18 months. Free with admission, $10 adults. Reservations not required.

Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay St., Katonah. 914–232–9555. katonahmuseum.org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Fish Tales. See Jan. 5.

Fun with Toddlers. See Jan. 12.

Touch-a-Boat Tour. See City Picks page 43.

27 Saturday

Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great. Sheila Tubman, otherwise known as Sheila the Great, comes of age in a lively and poignant musical, based on Judy Blume’s popular novel, about discovering the person within.

11am and 2pm. For all ages. $15.

Reservation required. Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge, Ridgefield, Conn. 203–438–5795.

Circle Time! with Sukey Molloy. Join Sukey Molloy for a special hour of movement play and song created specifically for toddlers and preschoolers with their parents! The event features 45 minutes of interactive educational music and movement activities, followed by 15 minutes of dialogue and informative sharing. Handouts included. 11am.

Ages 1-5 with caregiver. Call library to register: 914-271-6612. Croton Free Library, 171 Cleveland Dr., Croton-on-Hudson. 914–271–6612. crotonfreelibrary.org.

Family Lego Club.

Stop by the library and use their Legos to create your ideas. Get out of the house for some hands-on fun and meet like-minded friends.

2–4pm. For all ages with an adult.

Reservations not required. Chappaqua Library, 195 S. Greeley Avenue.

914–238–4779. chappaqualibrary.org.

SKATETACULAR’s Dreams on Ice. This full-length musical on ice is a family-friendly show with an original narrative. Professional skaters, sensational music and an enchanting storyline bring a wintry wonderland experience, fusing theatre and the art of figure skating. 8pm. For all ages. $30 adults, $28 students, $24 children under 13. Reservation required.

Westchester Community College Academic Arts Theater, 75 Grasslands Rd., Valhalla. 914–606–6262. sunywcc.edu.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

LEGO® Weekend. See Connecticut Corner page 43.

Native American Series. See Editor’s Pick page 40.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick page 35.

Touch-a-Boat Tour. See City Picks page 43.

28 Sunday

Animal Tracks and Traces.

Join a naturalist on a wintry walk to discover “secrets in the snow” left by winter active animals. Go on a track “hunt”, learn how to identify animal tracks, and create a track shirt. Each person must take a plain white pre-washed T-shirt.

10am. For all ages. $7 adults, $5 children. Reservations not required. Hudson Highlands Nature Museum Outdoor Discovery Center, Muser Dr. across from 174 Angola Rd., Cornwall. 845–534–5506, ext.

2014. hhnm.org.

Painted Papers and the Stories of Eric Carle. What better season than winter to cuddle up with stories you love – like Eric Carle’s tales illustrating the wonders of nature. Hear Family Art Project

storyteller Rama Mandel tell some of these enchanting favorites, then learn from Eric Carle’s techniques as we cut and layer hand-painted papers to form bright and colorful images. Free with and admission to the grounds. Grounds admission is free until noon. 10am–1pm today. For all ages. Reservations not required. Wave Hill, W. 249th Street and Independence Ave., Riverdale. 718–549–3200. wavehill.org.

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Party Directory Special Advertising Supplement

LEGO® Weekend. See Connecticut Corner page 42.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick page 35.

Touch-a-Boat Tour. See City Picks page 43.

29 Monday

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page xx.

Mother Goose Time. See Jan. 8.

New! Teddy B ear Stuffing Parties !

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick page 35.

FOR ALL PARTY NEEDS We bring the party to you!

30 Tuesday

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Our Senses: An Immersive Experience. See Top Pick page 35.

31 Wednesday

16th Annual Holiday Transit Show. See City Picks page 43.

Itsy Bitsy Play Group. See Connecticut Corner page 42.

• Jumping Houses • Slides • Popcorn Machines • Cotton Candy • BBQs • Party Balloons • Face Painting • High Peak Tents • Tables, Chairs & Linens

347-326-5567 • amandabearpartyrentals.com Westchester Family The Digital Edition

Sign up for a free digital subscription at WestchesterFamily.com and we’ll send you an email when the new issue comes out!

Makers & Shakers Afterschool Club. See Jan. 10.

Wednesday Crafternoons.

See Connecticut Corner page 42.

WestchesterFamily.com

January 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

45

Last Laugh //

Do I Look Fat in this Fitbit?

By Lisa A. Beach

T

apping into the latest trend, my wellintentioned husband recently bought me one of those omnipotent fitness tracker wristbands. This tracker monitors your every ARE YOU? move (literally) with a built-in GPS and KIDDING loads of features, making it a top-seller that (supposedly) fits every lifestyle.

That is, every lifestyle but mine.

I practically hung my head in ungrateful shame as I returned his gift, because isn’t it the thought that counts? What does this say E YOU AR about me if I returned a gift, not because it DING? ONLY ID K didn’t fit or it’s the wrong color, but because I just didn’t like it? What kind of monster am I? And yet, I’m ready to be branded with a scarlet letter as I returned my fitness tracker that my husband scored at a 20 percent discount, no less! I’m probably the only person in the world who’s jumping off the ONLY wearable technology bandwagon.

Why? For starters, I’m just not into exercise. I mean, I occasionally walk and do yoga, but only because I know I should. And I’ve given up trying to master the Dance Off the Inches Hip Hop Party DVD I bought a few years ago, foolishly thinking I could do complex choreography “so simple anyone can do it.”

Well, thanks for making me feel like an idiot, girl-with-rock-hard-abs-on-the-DVD-cover.

When Fit Blonde Girl instructs her hip-hop High-Tech Features for a wannabees to “pop it,” the only thing that Low-Tech Girl pops (and cracks) is my arthritic hip.

• I don’t need a wristband to monitor my And I do try to incorporate movement water intake. When I can feel the cotton in into my daily life. I kick butt in word games, my mouth, I know it’s time to take a drink. throw a fit when my teen mouths off to me, • I don’t need anything to tell me I was run daily errands, jump to conclusions and restless 35 times last night. I looked at dance around uncomfortable conversations. the clock 14 times during the night, felt These activities don’t really burn many exhausted in the morning and see the dark calories, but, at least I’m not totally circles under my eyes. I’m very aware I had sedentary. a crappy night’s sleep.

But the fitness tracker is a little too Big • I don’t need a device that’s waterproof up Brother for me, with my every movement to 10 meters, given my penchant for never being monitored 24/7. To get the most out of going scuba diving. my tracker I need to wear it all the time, even • I don’t need a fitness monitor to vibrate when I’m sleeping, shackling me like an I’mevery hour to tell me I’ve been inactive for on-house-arrest ankle bracelet. It just dangles too long. When I feel my derriere going on my wrist all day, recording every arm numb from sitting at the computer too swing as I walk or reach for another glass of long, I know it’s time to get moving. wine. Who needs that judgment all day long?

I feel like I should be wowed by this And then there’s the whole guilt factor. “wonder product” that is chock full of On days when I think I’ve been somewhat features that track not only your exercise, active I check my wristband only to discover but also your sleep patterns, your water that I racked up an unimpressive 415 steps consumption, your calories and your – and it’s already 3 p.m. This sets off a miniheart rate. rage, as I yell at my wrist monitor, “Why are

415?

46

Westchester Family | January 2018

5 41

415?

you silently judging me? Who are you to tell me I’m below my goal today?”

On top of all this, I’m always just a few steps behind what’s trending. Case in point – Breaking Bad was three seasons old before I even heard about it. And I just read a fashion article that pantyhose are coming back in, which made me wonder, when were they out?

So, it feels a bit premature for me to jump on the fitness tracker bandwagon just yet.

I’m also not what marketing experts would call an “early adopter.” I don’t upgrade my cell phone every year. I have zero desire for a smartwatch. I don’t want a drone. And, after great resistance, I finally forced myself to get on Twitter now that it’s almost 10 years old. I’m always late to the trend party by choice.

Now, if my husband can find me a Witbit to monitor my sarcasm, I’d be all over that.

But a Fitbit? Thanks, but I’m good.

Lisa Beach is a freelance journalist and copywriter. Her work has been published in Good Housekeeping, USA Today Back to School, Parents, Edible Orlando and more.

LisaBeachWrites.com.

Euro Bungee

Authentic Costumes - Professional Actors Complete Carnival and Theme Party Packages

Cliffhanger

Ultimate Wild One Optical Course

MAGICIANS, CLOWNS, PONY RIDES, CARNIVAL GAMES, INTERACTIVE RIDES

Frozen $PUUPO $BOEZ $BSUT o 1PQDPSO o )PUEPHT o 4OP $POF o 5FOUT Castle 5-in-1

Frozen Parties w/DJs & Karaoke

Bounce Castles, Big Slide, Airplane Ride, Trackless Train, Junior Challenge, Noah’s Ark, Interactive Adventure, Laser Tag, Batmobile, Airborne Spaceship Ride, Sea of Balls, Puffer the Magic Circus Train New Dave's Cast Family Zumba Parties!

100+ Charac ters!

World of Disney

Terminator Rampage SHARK BIG BITE SURF & SLIDE

Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Communions Baptisms Sweet Sixteens

D.J’S & MUSI C

TENTS CHAIRS CASINOS RACE CAR RIDES

TOTAL PARTY PLANNING

914-235-7100 www . davescast.com

Wrecking Ball

Hamster Balls “The Honey Beats�

Photo Booth

Polar Plunge

OVER 20 ANIMALS TO CHOOSE FROM! Pony Rides

Inflatable Carnival Fun ICE QUEEN & PRINCESS SHOW NEW YELLOW MONSTER PARTIES

PRINCESSES

Mastering mathematics.

Counting blessings.

Invest in a Catholic education when it makes the most difference. Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of New York offer a unique combination of academic and spiritual development that helps children of all backgrounds get the best start in life. Our students learn in an environment where respect, courtesy and service to others are always part of the curriculum— and they are outpacing New York State and New York City public school students in both Math and English Language Arts (ELA) proficiency standards.

We invite you to see the value of a Catholic education: schedule a tour at a nearby school at any time, or attend one of the upcoming TOURING TUESDAY open house events being held at 133 participating Catholic elementary schools.

Open Houses: January 9 & January 30 from 9-11am.

2018-19 ADMISSIONS ARE OPEN Book a Tour at a School Near You or Apply Today

CatholicSchoolsNY.org/admissions Bilingual Helpline: (646) 794-2885