Syracuse parent august 2015

AUGUST 2015

How to save on school supplies

Favorite Fair Foods

How to be a good youth sports parent

Enjoy nature’s roller coaster Add some fun and excitement to your summer - spend a day whitewater rafting on the nearby Black River! Whitewater Challengers offers a full day of adventure that includes all the top-notch equipment you’ll need, as well as a highly-trained New York state licensed guide in each raft.

Start your day by hopping aboard nature’s roller coaster as you ride the waves through no less than 14 rapids ranging from mild to wild.

Hit the exploding waves in Zig, avoid the rock in Zag and scream down Rocket Ride.

Will you get wet? You bet! Raft, swim, jump and play your way down the river. Then, as the rapids calm, it’s time to put the paddles aside and sit back, relax and laugh about the days events while you soak up the scenery of the lower canyon during their pontoon boat raft tow to the take-out.

Whitewater Challengers offers trips from May through September. They’re easy to find, located near Watertown, off Exit 46 of I81.

Call 1-800-443-RAFT, or visit them on the web at whitewaterchallengers.com.

submitted photo

day trips

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WE OFFER

Day Trip Contest winner chosen

Xiomara Cordoba has won Syracuse Parent’s Day Trip Contest, with not one but six examples of having fun in Central New York in one day.

Pictured are two of those photos.

She has won a family four pack of tickets to Pole Position.

Grab the family and head out for a day trip in Central New York, then snap a photo of the kids enjoying themselves and send it to us.

We will pick one of the photos to run in next month’s edition, and the lucky winner will receive a family four pack of tickets to Thunder Island (good TuesdayThursday.) Simply email your photo, along with your name, kids’ names, where you’re from and where the photo was taken to jwing@ eaglenewsonline.com.

Contest continued!

Connor Needle, from Baldwinsville, having a great time at Thunder Island; at left, Connor and Penelope Cordoba, picking strawberries at Abbott’s Farm.

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day trips

AUGUST 2015 SYRACUSE PARENT

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meals in minutes

fast and easy meals to get your family to the table on time

Favorite fair foods State and county fair season has arrived, and that means there will be rides and games galore. While many people are drawn to fairs by the entertainment, just as many are willing to stand in line for the unique and tasty foods that seem to embody fair and carnival fun.

If it can be served on a stick or deep fried, chances are you can find it at a fair. Everything from chocolate-dipped bacon to deep-fried butter may turn up on fair stand menus. The following are some of the more coveted foods revelers can expect to find at their local fairs and carnivals.

• Funnel cake: Funnel cake and it’s close cousin, zeppole, have long been fair favorites. Topped with powdered sugar, funnel cakes can be pulled apart and shared with others.

• Chocolate milk: There’s nothing that can quench your thirst quite like a trip to the Rainbow Milk Bar at the fair. Whether you choose chocolate or white milk, it’s cold, creamy and refreshing!

• Corn dogs: Corn dogs are essentially hot dogs on a stick that have been covered in cornmeal and fried. Like funnel cakes, corn dogs have become so synonymous with fairs and carnivals that few people have ever enjoyed them anywhere outside of their local fairgrounds.

• Baked potato: Get in line and pick your toppings! A great way to get full for a low price, this fair favorite brings smiles to young and old.

• French fries: French fries are a favorite at fairs, and carnival-goers can choose from savory shoestrings to hearty steak-cut potato chunks.

• Cotton candy: What fair would be complete without a cotton candy vendor? Cotton candy is made by heating up granulated sugar until it is liquified enough to be blown into thin threads. Those threads are collected and wound into a sweet treat that is loved by kids and adults alike.

• Pie: Fair-goers are likely to happen upon a pie-eating contest or pie-tasting tent. Many prefer to indulge in a piece of pie while at the fair, preferring such treats to sweeter, heavier desserts.

• Corn on the cob: Corn on the cob is proof that carnivals and fairs provide some healthy fare for customers in addition to the many decadent treats on display. Corn on the cob is most popular in corn-producing areas and can be the ideal complement to burgers and other fair foods.

• Anything on a stick: Each year fair vendors experiment with culinary oddities that can be served on a stick. One day it may be skewered pork chops and the next a sleeve of cookies.

Those who want the full fair experience should consider trying something served on a stick.

What’s new?

When it comes to unusual food, we’ve seen it all, from fried Oreos and Twinkies to chocolate-covered bacon — or so we thought! New this year: A deep fried burger, topped with deep fried bacon, deep fried pickles and cheddar cheese between two grilled cheese sandwiches, as described on the Facebook page for the Fried Specialties stand at the Fair.

what’s inside

2 3 19

day trips Enjoy nature’s roller coaster.

Contest winner chosen; contest continues.

Build a sand castle.

meals in minutes 4

Favorite fair foods.

from the editor 6

All’s fair...

dollars & sense 7

How to save on school supplies.

calendar 8

What’s happening around you.

family FYI 11

contents

‘Groundhog Day’ Mom edition.

learning curve 13 14 15

Signs a tutor might be necessary.

Strategies to help kids focus on their schoolwork.

You do the math: College tuition, fees on the rise.

safety zone 16

How to help teenagers become better drivers.

back to school 17

Bus stop basics: Make their back to school comfy, stylish.

healthy family 18

Growing farm-to-school programs.

back to school basics

Bag it!

Backpacks, lunch boxes that bring style to their first day For more back to

TEAM SPIRIT: Syracuse Orange Elite Backschool style pack, $59.95; shop.cuse.com. Buffalo Bills see page Insulated Lunch Bag, $9.99; 17 nflshop.com.

PRETTY IN PINK: Vera Bradley Campus Backpack in Katalina Pink, $109, Lighten Up Lunch Coller in Katalina Pink Diamonds, $34; verabradley.com.

AUGUST 2015 SYRACUSE PARENT 5

from the editor

All’s fair...

Let’s talk about fairness, regarding summertime. In my book, it’s not fair...

3 That summer is almost over.

3 That I didn’t have time for many of the projects, large and small, that I intended to complete during these past couple of months.

3 That I feel I’ve finally rotated my wardrobe out to warmer clothes, and the stores are letting me know Jennifer Wing that I need to take a look at jeans, jackets and boots Editor again.

3 That my kids are already talking about what sneakers (or boots or jeans) they need for back to school.

Although August is my favorite month, weather-wise, it’s very bittersweet.

Everything is at its brightest hue, the trees and grass and flowers are bursting with that vitality that is just on this side of fall, when it starts to fray around the edges.

The water is warm enough for swimming; the kids all have that healthy, golden glow to their skin that’s snuck by the sunblock.

We all get a bit used to the ability to run out of the house without a jacket or gloves and almost begin to take the good weather for granted.

I said almost, however, because, as Central New Yorkers, we don’t have the luxury of complacency when it comes to fair days. We know, lurking around the corner, is that first frost, that day where you grab a sweater to go out to the mailbox.

The kids’ thoughts go from ice cream cones and swimming holes to football and homework.

But, wait, there’s one more thing that has to happen before summer’s official end: The New York State Fair.

With its concerts, food, animal barns, rides and midway games, what better way to cap off what, to me, is the best season of the year? All’s fair as the cooler temperatures of fall battle the warmth of summer and slowly take over. If the Fair is the consolation prize, I’ll take it, and some fried dough as well.

publisher

David B. Tyler 434-8889 ext. 302 dtyler@eaglenewsonline.com

editor

Jennifer Wing 434-8889 ext. 340 jwing@eaglenewsonline.com

associate editor

Alyssa LaFaro 434-8889 ext. 306

ad sales

Linda Jabbour 434-8889 ext. 304 ljabbour@eaglenewsonline.com

business manager

Lisa Congdon

434-8889 ext. 303 lcongdon@eaglenewsonline.com

circulation manager

Lori Newcomb

434-8889 ext. 333 lnewcomb@eaglenewsonline.com

creative director

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We want your news! Contributions can be sent to Jen Wing, Editor, Syracuse Parent Magazine, 2501 James Street, Suite 100 Syracuse, New York 13206. Original contributions become the property of Syracuse Parent Magazine. Contributions cannot be acknowledged or returned. To contact us please call 315.434.8889, or fax 315.434.8883

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Syracuse Parent Magazine is a unit of Community Media Group LLC. Published monthly. Deadline for advertising and calendar events is the 10th day of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates available upon request. Syracuse Parent Magazine reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. We do not guarantee any of the information, services, or products published in this or any issue. The opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this paper. Copyright © 2008 by Syracuse Parent Magazine. No portion of Syracuse Parent Magazine may be reproduced without permission from the editor.

making, spending & saving - tips and techniques for family finances

dollars & sense

How to save on school supplies

end up saving you money in the long run, even if the initial pill is somewhat tough to swallow.  Use technology to your advantage. Department stores and businesses that sell school supplies, such as pharmacies and office stores, may or may not discount too many items once back to school season hits full swing. But savvy parents can still find deals by using technology to their advantage when shopping for school supplies. Download apps like RetailMeNot to your smartphone and enable its updates so your phone essentially notifies you of any discounts the moment you walk into a given store. If you don’t receive any updates, search for discounts via the app or the Internet as you shop. Chances are strong that there are deals to be had, even if you don’t learn of the deals until you arrive at the store.

School supplies can be expensive, but parents can employ several strategies to save on school supplies now and in the future.

BLESSED SACRAMENT SCHOOL

3 year olds through 6th grade Elementary School Accredited by the Middle States Commission Offering Faith, Knowledge, Discipline, Morals, and Dividends for Life since 1931.

Providing your child with academic excellence in a positive and personal environment!

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Back to school season can be as expensive for parents as it is exciting for students. Once the initial letdown of the end of summer vacation wears off, many kids are excited to return to school, where they can see their friends, study their favorite subjects and participate in extracurricular activities.

Parents of school-aged youngsters may share in that excitement while also knowing that back to school season can stretch their budgets. One of the ways to salvage those budgets is to save on school supplies. Fortunately, there are several ways parents can do just that.  Be patient. Shopping early can save shoppers money in many instances, but parents may benefit by exercising patience when it comes to buying school supplies for their children.

Teachers often give students lists of supplies they will need for each class, and parents who wait to receive such lists can avoid spending money on items their kids won’t need. Even if you wait it out, you may be able to get a head start, as some teachers may post supply lists on school websites, while others might email lists to parents before back to school season hits full swing.  Take inventory. If you have more than one child, chances are you already have lots of school supplies around the house. Dust off kids’ backpacks and study areas from last school year to determine which supplies you need to buy and which you already have. Going forward, encourage kids to store their supplies in a predetermined area once the school year ends, as this will make next year’s inventory that much easier to examine and assess.  Spend more now to save later. While inexpensive supplies can be hard to resist, such items likely won’t withstand the test of time, forcing you to spend time and money each year buying replacement supplies. Paying more now for certain items, including stronger backpacks and more highly rated calculators, may

Tours available. Call for an appointment.

3219 James Street • Syracuse, NY 13206 315-463-1261 • www.blessedsacramentschool.org AUGUST 2015 SYRACUSE PARENT

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Staff on call 24 HOURS A day!

calendar

here is what’s happening around you

Saturday, Aug. 1

Syracuse Dragon Boat Festival

9 a.m.-4 p.m., Waterfront Park, Inner Harbor, 412 Spencer St., Syracuse; syracusedragonboat.com.

In this inaugural event community teams will paddle in friendly competition on a 200-meter race course in the Inner Harbor. Free for spectators. Watch the racing while enjoying food, music, vendors and children’s activities. A portion of the team registration will benefit the Food Bank of CNY.

Breakfast Canoe Tour

7:30 a.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com. Advance registration required. During these early morning hours, animals may be seen along the shore, and overhead. In the middle of the excursion will be a campfire pancake breakfast, after which attendees will return to the canoes to complete the exploration. Cost: $5 adults; $3 child plus $10 canoe rental.

Artful Tales

1 p.m., Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse; everson.org. For children ages 3 and up and their caregivers. Enjoy an afternoon of storytelling and gallery exploration with a Museum docent. To register, contact Kimberly Griffiths, 474-6064 ext. 308. $5 suggested donation.

Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 1-2 Pulaski Old Home Days

Sunday, Aug. 2

601 North Way Phone: 487-1541

LIVERPOOL

8086 Oswego Rd. Phone: 652-1070

Bavarianfest 44942_5

FREE

Prenatal Consultation!

South Park. For more information, call 532-5919.

CAMILLUS

www.pediatricassociatesny.com

Oneida Shores Park, 9400 Bartell Road, Brewerton. See irongirl.com for event details. Free for spectators.

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball VS. Pawtucket Red Sox

7:05 p.m. each night, NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse; milb.com. Ticket prices vary.

Thursday, Aug. 6

Summer Film Under the Stars Series; Family Night: “The Lego Movie�

8:30 p.m., Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse; everson.org. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and snacks and settle in on the Everson Community Plaza to enjoy films projected onto the façade of the museum building. Pre-film activities at 7 p.m., screening at 8.30 p.m. Free.

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Serving Lunches Daily!

OPEN ROCK & BOWLING Friday & Saturday Night 9pm

Athleta IronGirl Women’s Triathlon

Monday-Wednesday, Aug. 3-5

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BOWL

Noon, Long Branch Park at Onondaga Lake Park, 3813 Long Branch Road, Geddes; bavarianclubalmenrausch.org. Free.

Mon-Thurs 11am-Midnight Fri & Sat 11am-1am Sun noon-9pm

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Thursday-Saturday, Aug. 6-8 Williamstown Field Days

Parade 6 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 964-7789.

Saturday, Aug. 8 Canine Carnival

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Jamesville Beach Park, 4110 West Shore Manor, Jamesville; pmawf.org. This annual event features hundreds of animals for adoption from dogs and cats to horses, animal demonstrations, horse carriage rides, a Red Cross Blood Drive, food, music and back by popular demand, a Sports and Kids Zone with CNY sports teams. It will be held rain or shine. Bring your pets-but all dogs must be on a short leash at all times within the Canine Carnival area. The Canine Carnival will also feature dog washing and grooming and Spay and Neuter Syracuse (SANS) will again offer micro-chipping for your pet. Veterinary Medical Center of CNY will have an emergency triage center on site for your pets. Free.

Corner Store Country Run 5k

SRC Arena, 4585 West Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse; see cornerstorerun.com for schedule. A farm-themed 5k where folks are encouraged to dress in their finest country duds and stick around afterwards for a country fair with free sponsor swag, live music, food, carnival games, face painting and two free beer tickets for adults. All proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters and local children’s charities.

Eastwood Market Day 2015 $BMM r XXX DB[TQPSUTCPXM DPN 3PVUF 5PXO $PVOUSZ 1MB[B $B[FOPWJB /:

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9 a.m.-2:30 p.m., POMCO Parking Lot, 100 Grant Blvd. Syracuse’s premier community “garage� sale featuring 50-plus vendors with items from gently used household items, clothes, toys, antiques, collectibles and so much more! Craft items and food will be available as well.

calendar continued on page 10

SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2015

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GOTOCNYARTS.ORG Film Under the Stars: The Lego Movie

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August 6 Everson Museum

Giant Puppet Circus

At Manlius Pebble Hill School, we guide bright kids toward even brighter horizons!

August 15 Blessed Sacrament School

• CNY’s only independent PreK through Grade12 school.

Tinker, Thinker, Science Maker Summer Camp

• Rigorous academic programs and innovative extracurriculars.

• Small class sizes allow for a highly personalized student experience.

August 3-7 Museum of Science and Technology

• Teachers with the freedom to help each student reach their full potential.

Asian Elephant Extravaganza August 22 Rosamond Gifford Zoo

Visit us and find out what a world of difference an MPH education can make for your child.

For more events from around CNY gotocnyarts.org

Office of Admissions • 446-2452, ext. 117 Admissions@mph.net • www.mph.net

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

3 year old program beginning in September

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• Full Day Kindergarten • Hot Lunch Program • Pre-K - 6th grade • Art Appreciation • One of the top academic schools • Technology Classes integrated in a three-county area on NYS tests. throughout the school • Spanish taught beginning in • Transportation available • Tuition Scholarships available Kindergarten • Instrumental & Vocal Music Programs • After School Program

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Faith & Values • Academic Excellence • Family & Community

Enrichment Pre-K program

Applications Available 400 Salt Springs Street • Fayetteville • 637-3961 www.icschool.org Applications now being accepted. Please call for an appointment and personal tour.

Prestigious Middle States Accreditation

AUGUST 2015 SYRACUSE PARENT

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calendar

here is what’s happening around you

Monday– Sunday, Aug. 10-16

Madison Bouckville Antique Week & Big Field Show

Gambling might seem like harmless fun at first but can become an obsession and can lead to other risky behaviors.

More than financial health is at risk.

8 a.m.-5 p.m., Antique Show Site, 6994 State Route 20, Bouckville; madison-bouckville.com. This event, in its 44th year, will once again bring buyers, collectors, admirers and dealers from across the globe to the largest antique event in New York State and one of the largest outdoor events in the country. This week-long, town-wide, free admission event will bring quality merchandise and interesting collectables to this age old show.

Wednesday, Aug. 12

KidsFest: Aesop’s Fables - Music and Stories with Susan Reed

11 a.m.-noon, First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles, 97 E. Genesee St., Skaneateles; skanfest.org.

As part of the Skaneateles Festival, nationally recognized singer-songwriter, violinist, banjo player and storyteller Susan Reed blends folk music and stories in a participatory program of Aesop’s fables and her own original songs. Free.

Wednesdays-Saturdays, Aug. 12-Sept. 5 Skaneateles Festival

This summer music festivals, set in the beauty of the Finger Lakes Region, is community-inspired and recognized for its creative and dynamic concert programming, education, and outreach. For times, dates and locations of performances, visit skanfest.org.

Thursday, Aug. 13

Stargazing with the CNY Observers

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8 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks. com. Advance registration required. The CNY observers host an introductory lecture to the night sky, focusing on planets and other objects observable during August and September. Cloud date is Aug. 20. Free with nature center admission.

Kids that gamble are: t NPSF MJLFMZ UP ESJOL t NPSF MJLFMZ UP TNPLF t NPSF MJLFMZ UP CF JO USPVCMF XJUI UIF MBX

KE PARENTS CAN MA A DIFFERENCE IT’S TIME TO HAVE THE GAMBLING TALK… IT’S NOT JUST NICKELS AND DIMES For more information or to schedule a parent presentation contact:

Thursday-Saturday, Aug. 13-15 Hannibal Field Days

Parade 7 p.m. Thursday. For more information, call 564-6617.

Friday, Aug. 14 Baby & Me Tours

11:30 a.m., Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse; everson.org. Moms, dads and caregivers can enjoy a tour while babies enjoy the stimulating colors and shapes of the artwork.

Afterwards, stay to eat lunch (or feed baby) in the Everson Lounge. Bring your own lunch, or purchase one from the Everson Lunch Cart.

Friday-Sunday, Aug. 14-16 Constantia Field Days

Parade 6 p.m. Saturday.

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball vs. Buffalo Bison

7:05 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 1:05 p.m. Sunday, NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse; milb.com. Ticket prices vary.

Saturday, Aug. 15

Solar Party with Bob Piekiel

1–3 p.m., Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus; baltimorewoods.org.

With special telescopes, sunspots, solar prominences and magnetic storms can be viewed clearly and safely. Back-up date Aug. 16. Preregistration is available online. Cost: $6 members, $9 nonmembers.

Giant Puppet Circus

2–3:30 p.m., Open Hand Theater, 518 Prospect Ave., Syracuse. Check out the amazing skills of the students in Open Hand Theater’s Theater Arts Circus Camp as they dazzle the audience with feats of dance, juggling, comedy and puppetry. Free. Interested in being part of the circus? Registration and tuition information are available at openhandtheater.org.

Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 15-16 Oktoberfest

Noon, Long Branch Park at Onondaga Lake Park, 3813 Long Branch Road, Geddes; germanamericanscny.com. Free.

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SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2015

some helpful information for your family

‘Groundhog Day:’ Mom edition

FYI

now I accept the dull thunk as a “yes,” and proceed with the checklist that makes NASA look like amateurs.

The day ends much like it began.

“Bed in five minutes.”

“Go brush your teeth.”

(Gets sidetracked by a book.)

“Did you brush your teeth?”

(No.) “Brush your teeth.”

“Good night.” (Hugs and kisses good night.)

“Mom?” he asks, as I’m inches from the door. “Can I have another hug?”

“Yes.” Because some things are worth repeating.

Karen Bergamo Moore lives in Camillus with her husband and son.

She works in the communications office at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, is active in Boy Scouts and enjoys running 5Ks with her son. Follow her on twitter at @kmoore623.

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adds another layer the table?”

B er g a m o- M re n of déjà vu, and “Don’t forget to oo a K heaven help us feed the cat.”

(I trip over a if there are two sports on cat begging for the same day. food.)

“Do you “Did you have your feed the cat?”

(No.) “Feed the pads and stick?” cat.”

A mo “Water “Did you brush ve ther ’s perspecti bottle?” your teeth? (No.) Go “Where are your brush your teeth.” shin guards?”

(Gets sidetracked by the nowfed and happy cat.)

“Goalie gloves? … No, I don’t know where your gloves are. I “Why aren’t you brushing didn’t wear them.” (Oh no! I’ve your teeth?” turned into my mother!)

“Don’t forget to grab your The question moms of boys backpack … What do you will relate to, “Do you have mean you don’t know where your cup?” I have learned this your backpack is? … Where question is never answered with did you have it last? … a “yes,” but the act of said child Don’t forget your homework, rapping his knuckles on the cup saxophone, gym clothes, hat, to prove it is indeed in place. gloves or boots.”

Some day I will uncover the This is to get out the door in meaning of this ritual, but for the morning. A sport activity re

There are times I feel I’m trapped in a bad remake of the movie “Groundhog Day.” Every day I hear myself saying the same things over and over.

I’d tell The Boy I sound like a broken record, but that means nothing to him.

Seasons don’t matter. There’s little variation to the patter throughout the year. Feel free to sing along, you know the words or at least similar lyrics.

“Good morning. It’s time to get up.”

“Waffles or cereal? … We’re leaving in half an hour. ” “Come take your allergy medicine.”

“Did you take your allergy medicine?”

(Gets sidetracked by TV.) “Why is your allergy medicine still sitting here?”

“When you’re done eating, put your dishes in the sink.”

“Why are your dishes still on

family

AUGUST 2015 SYRACUSE PARENT

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calendar

here is what’s happening around you

Sunday, Aug. 16 VW Car Show

Oneida Shores Park, 9400 Bartell Road, Brewerton; vwccny.com. Car show dedicated to the Volkswagen enthusiast. Prizes awarded for a number of categories.

Thursday, Aug. 20

Summer Film Under the Stars Series; Date Night: “Grease”

8:30 p.m., Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse; everson. org. Pre-show activities begin at 7 p.m., screening at 8.30 p.m. Before the screening enjoy a 1950s-themed evening. Enjoy a malt, see some classic cars, and bebop to music from the era. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and snacks and settle in on the Everson Community Plaza to enjoy films projected onto the façade of the museum building. Free.

Saturday, Aug. 22 Barefoot Hike

1–3 p.m., Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus; baltimorewoods.org. Barefoot Bob reconnects you to this underutilized and healthy mode of transportation. Join Bob for a half-mile barefoot hike along the valley trail over grass, wooden bridges, leaves and soil. This program is not intended for families with strollers. Cost: $6 members, $9 nonmembers.

Asian Elephant Extravaganza

10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse; rosamondgiffordzoo.org. Celebrate the zoo’s Asian elephants and the cultures of their native countries. Visitors will experience special elephant demonstrations that only occur once each year, participate in games and activities and watch authentic cultural performances. Free with zoo admission.

GiGi’s Playhouse 5K

Registration: 8-9:30 a.m., Dash for Down Syndrome: 9:30 a.m., One Mile Walk: 9:45 a.m., 5K Run/Walk: 10 a.m.; Starts at Saw Mill Creek Shelter, Willow Bay at Onondaga Lake Park, Liverpool; gigisplayhouse.org. Cost: $30 per person.

Street Scene Car Show

8 a.m., Long Branch Park at Onondaga Lake Park, 3813 Long Branch Road, Geddes; onondagacountyparks.com. Central New York’s premier import, sport compact and sport truck meet/show. Admission: $20.

Monday–Wednesday, Aug. 24-26

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball vs. Rochester Red Wings

7:05 p.m. each night, NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse; milb.com. Ticket prices vary.

Wednesday, Aug. 26

Kevin Hart – What Now Tour

7 and 10:30 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; oncenter.org. The multi-talented entertainer, actor and comedian will be doing two shows due to popular demand.

Thursday-Monday, Aug. 27–Sept. 7 The Great New York State Fair

NYS Fairgrounds, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse; nysfair.org. Every year, nearly one million people experience this affordable, 12-day celebration of delicious food, eye-opening exhibits, captivating entertainment and outrageous fun. The Fair showcases thousands of animals, hundreds of commercial attractions, scores of exciting midway rides and entertainers.

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SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2015

Saturday, Aug. 29

Bats!

7–8:30 p.m., Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus; baltimorewoods.org. Come spend and evening, indoors and out, as we find out why bats are truly beneficial creatures, with undeserved reputations. Meet at the lower parking lot. Cost: $6 members, $9 nonmembers.

Incredible Edibles

10:30–11:30 a.m., Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus; baltimorewoods.org. Forests have a number of plants with medicinal and delicious properties. Find out how to identify and use these practical plants. For ages 10 and up. Cost: $6 members, $9 nonmembers.

Saturday–Monday, Aug. 29-31

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball vs. Lehigh Valley IronPigs

7:05 p.m. Saturday and Monday, 1:05 p.m. Sunday, NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse; milb.com. Ticket prices vary.

Sunday, Aug. 30

Syracuse Jewish Music & Cultural Festival

Noon-6 p.m., Jewish Community Cultural Center, 5655 Thompson Road, Syracuse. Free event for the entire family—you don’t have to be Jewish to enjoy! Food, beer, artisans and music, including Keyna Hora Klezmer Band, Alhambra Sephardic Ensemble, Robin Seletsky and the Big Galut(e) Ensemble and Farah.

Saturday-Sunday, Sept. 5-6 Redfield Old Home Days

Parade 6 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 599-7762.

Saturday–Monday, Sept. 5-7

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball vs Scranton/Wilkes Barre

7:05 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 1:05 p.m. Monday, NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse; milb.com. Ticket prices vary.

Friday–Saturday, Sept. 11-12 Syracuse Irish Festival 2015

Clinton Square, Syracuse; syracuseirishfestival.com. Enjoy amazing Irish food, vendors, music and more. Free.

Saturday–Sunday, Sept. 12-13 30th Annual CNY TomatoFest

Emerson Park, 6914 E. Lake Road, Auburn; cnytomatofest.com. Enjoy entertainment. food offerings, live music, and so much more. For the younger set, there are fun and games available at the Family Fun Tent. Free shuttle bus (courtesy of Centro) from Auburn High School to the main gate.

Proceeds will be donated to participating area food pantries. Cost: $3 per person; children are free with a donated canned item.

Golden Harvest Festival

10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks. com. This event is an old time country fair and traditional harvest festival wrapped up in one. Nonstop music, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, a supernatural midway for kids, wildlife programs, canoeing and kayaking, hayrides, a variety of food and more. Admission: $5; $1 ages 6 to 17; 5 and under free.

the ins and outs of educational and stimulating activities for your children

learning curve

Signs a tutor might be necessary School is not always easy, and some students struggle as they transition from grade to grade. As students get older, some who may have experienced smooth sailing as youngsters may find they need some extra help grasping the material as coursework becomes more complicated.

Those who need some extra clarification and reinforcement may first turn to their parents. But parents may not be familiar with certain subjects or capable of explaining concepts in terms kids can understand. In such situations, tutors can prove to be valuable resources to get kids back on the right academic track.

One-on-one attention from a tutor can benefit all types of learners.

Students who discover newfound success under the guidance of a tutor may have more self-confidence in the classroom. Parents wondering if a tutor can help their children may want to consider the following indicators that students may need tutors.

• Consistently falling grades: Tutors may be necessary for students whose grades are gradually on the decline. First speak with your child’s teachers, who may recommend tutors who specialize in certain subjects.

• Confusion in and out of the classroom: Some kids struggle to grasp certain concepts, and such confusion can sometimes be remedied with the kind of intense study available in tutoring sessions.

• Low confidence: Some kids’ confidence wanes when their grades suffer. Kids whose grades have been on the decline may feel a sense of defeat even before they take a test or work on an assignment. Tutors can help restore confidence by creating small victories that slowly build up to larger successes.

• Indifference to coursework: No student will be captivated by every subject he or she studies, but there should be some subjects that students find engaging. Students battling indifference toward their coursework may benefit from a dynamic tutor who can present subject matter in new ways and revive students’ interest.

Students who are struggling in the classroom may need some extra help outside the classroom, and many tutors are adept at reviving interest in subjects kids are studying at school. Some teachers may recommend certain tutors, while others may do some tutoring work themselves.

This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number H49MC00067, Eliminating Disparities in Perinatal Health for $1.2M annually, 100% government financed. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.

AUGUST 2015 SYRACUSE PARENT

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learning curve

the ins and outs of educational and stimulating activities for your children

Strategies to help kids focus on their schoolwork Some youngsters experience difficulty when the time comes to focus on their schoolwork.

Such difficulties may be linked to a variety of factors, and parents can be overwhelmed as they attempt to identify the root cause of their youngsters’ struggles in the classroom.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 6.4 million American children between the ages of four and 17 have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.

ADHD most often occurs in children, and these children may have difficulty with concentrating, paying attention, staying organized, and remembering details. But not all children struggling to focus on their studies have ADHD. Parents who want to help their kids overcome their issues with regard to focusing can consider a host of approaches and strategies.

• Speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

Because ADHD is so common, parents

should seek the opinion of a licensed healthcare professional to determine if their child has the disorder. According to the National Resource Center on ADHD (help4adhd. org), psychiatrists, pediatricians, neurologists, psychologists, and certain licensed counselors or therapists are qualified to diagnose ADHD. Determining if a child has ADHD is a great first step toward helping that student overcome his or her struggles in the classroom.

A qualified healthcare professional

can help develop a strategy to improve focus, and that may include prescribing medication to improve the child’s ability to concentrate.

• Speak with your child’s teacher.

Students who don’t have ADHD can still have trouble focusing on their schoolwork, and parents of such students may want to speak to their children’s teachers to solve the problem. Educators have significant experience dealing with students who have trouble focus-

ing, and they may be able to make certain suggestions to help kids focus on their work.

• Minimize distractions at home. Some kids may do well in class but find it hard to focus once they arrive home.

That’s because home often has far more distractions than the classroom. Once the time comes for your child to do his or her homework, minimize distractions that can compromise his or her ability to focus.

Turn off the television and take kids’ phones away. Dur-

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ing homework time, only allow them to use their computers for their lessons and not to connect with friends via social media. Parents also should make sure they aren’t the distraction. Let kids do their work in peace and quiet, offering to help if need be, but steering clear of kids work areas so they are encouraged to focus and not strike up conversations with mom or dad.

• Make lists. Some kids focus better when they know exactly what they have to do. Encourage such youngsters to make lists of their assignments and check items off as they are completed. Checking items off can give kids a sense of accomplishment, which can motivate them to stay focused on their schoolwork going forward.

• Encourage breaks.

A breather every so often can help kids avoid growing tired. Make sure kids don’t take up another task, such as playing video games or watching television, during their breaks. But keep in mind that standing up every so often to walk around or get a glass of water can help them stay sharp and energized over the long haul.

the ins and outs of educational and stimulating activities for your children

learning curve

You do the math College tuition, fees on the rise According to the College Board Annual Survey of

%

Colleges, the average published tuition and fee price for full-time, in-state students at public four-year colleges during the 2014-15 school year was $9,139. That marks a nearly 3 percent increase from the preceding year, but it’s still a considerable bargain when compared to the tuition and fee costs full-time, out-of-state students attending four-year public colleges will have to pay.

Such students paid $22,958 for the 2014-15 school year, a 3.3 percent hike from the year before. Such figures do not include the cost of room and board, which averaged roughly $9,800 for the 2014-15 school year at public four-year colleges (in-state and out-of-state).

Private, non-profit, four-year colleges remained considerably more expensive than their public counterparts, costing students an average of more than $42,000 per year for tuition, fees and room and board during the 2014-15 school year. The 3.7 percent rise in tuition and fees at such institutions also represented the highest average increase of any four-year colleges or universities.

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Call 446-1017 for a free sample class!

Visit greenlakesmusictogether.com for more information.

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safety zone

the best ways to play while keeping danger away

How to help teenagers become better drivers A new crop of teenagers is ready to take to the roads with their newly minted drivers’ licenses. Most teenagers are anxious to get behind the wheel because having a license and access to a car means freedom they may not have had before. However, parents and guardians may be worried about these teens on the road because they lack the practice and experience of more advanced drivers. Continuing to educate young drivers about safety can help reduce the risk of accident.

Traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that vehicular accidents account for 35 percent of all fatalities among people 15 to 20 years old.

What puts teens particularly at risk is the tendency of many young drivers to engage in reckless behavior and/or distracted driving.

It is often up to parents to reinforce the rules of the road and also consistently work with their children so that the teens can become better drivers. l Practice safer driving.

As with any activity, practice helps hone skills and teaches people through their own mistakes. Driving is no exception. Mistakes on the road can be serious; therefore, it is best for teen drivers to practice driving in areas that are not heavily populated or full of traffic.

Parents may want to establish rules that the teen is not able to drive solo until he or she passes the requirements

16

Traffic accidents account for many injuries and fatalities among teens. Education and practice are essential to helping teenagers become better drivers.

set forth by Mom or Dad. Parents can routinely ride around with their teen children to gauge how progress is coming along. l Get the facts. Talk to teens about road risks and how to stay safe. Research the laws and statistics pertaining to teenage drivers and share that information.

It may not always be well

SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2015

received, but there’s a good chance that some of the message will get through. l Set a good example.

According to a 2007 study from Students Against Destructive Decisions, the biggest influence on how teens drive is their parents. Almost two-thirds of high school teens say their parents talk on a cell phone while driv-

ing, almost half say their parents speed and almost one-third say their parents don’t wear a safety belt.

Parents should be mindful of their own behaviors when driving and the impression those behaviors are making on youngsters. l Establish rules. Distracted driving is claiming more and more lives each year. Many accidents are as the result of texting while driving. According to Distraction.org, in 2010, 3,092 people were killed in crashes involving a distracted driver and an estimated additional 416,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving a distracted driver. Text messaging creates a crash risk 23 times worse than driving while not distracted. Also, research has found that sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, the equivalent -- at 55 mph -- of driving the length of an entire football field blind.

Parents can implement rules, such as that cell phones are not allowed to be on while in the car or the phone should be stored in the back seat or trunk while a teen is driving. Parents also may want to set rules that multiple passengers (friends) are not allowed to ride in the car until the teen is more accustomed to driving.

Driving is an activity that offers freedom and mobility.

It is also one that places a very large and potentially destructive piece of machinery into the hands of a driver. Education should be ongoing as teens learn to drive.

Bus stop basics Make their back to school comfy, stylish

All-boy attire Nike KO Football 3.0 Ignite, $40; nike.com Old Navy boys loose fit jeans, $16; oldnavy.gap.com Timberland Junior Premium six-inch waterproof boots, $130; timberland.com

Diva duds Girls’ Under Armour Rival printed cotton hoodie asphalt heather, $39.99; underarmour.com Justice denim jeggings, $20; shopjustice.com Bailey Bow boots in cerise, $140; uggaustralia.com.

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healthy family

tips and ideas for keeping your family fast, fit, and feeling great

Growing farm-to-school programs Farm-to-school programs offer children better, fresher, more nutritious, and more local food choices that empower children and their families learn more about the food on their plates and make better food choices. These programs also help strengthen rural and small town economies by creating economic opportunities for local farmers and ranchers as well as local food processors.

As part of the upcoming Child Nutrition Act Reauthorization, Congress needs to build on the success of farm to school by strengthening and expanding the program’s scope and by providing additional mandatory funding.

Earlier this year, Representative Jeff Fortenberry (R-Nebraska) and

Representative Marcia Fudge (D-Ohio) took a huge step in that direction when they introduced the Farm to School Act to expand and strengthen the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm to School Grant programs. Senator Thad Cochran (R-Mississippi) and Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont) introduced a companion bill in the Senate.

As Rep. Fortenberry explained at the

Established in 1973, the Center for Rural Affairs is a private, nonprofit organization working to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities through action oriented programs addressing social, economic and environmental issues.

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time, schools throughout Nebraska and across the U.S. are eagerly embracing local foods from local farms, with more than 10,000 schools participating in Farm to School programs nationally. The Farm to School Act will also expand existing USDA Farm-to-School Grant programs to include preschools and summer and after school programs. The Center for Rural Affairs applauds Rep. Fortenberry, Rep. Fudge, Senator Cochran and Senator Leahy for their effort to promote the use of fresh, locally produced food in even more schools and educational programs.

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By John Crabtree, johnc@cfra.org, Center for Rural Affairs

Build a sandcastle

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Life should be a day at the beach – and there are a lot to choose from in CNY. You need only hop in the car and take a short drive to get to some sand, sun and surf.

Bring the kids, a picnic lunch and some shades and you’re all set for a day of relaxation and fun. Some of the more popular spots to try include Green Lake State Park, Fayetteville - 637-6111, nysparks.com; Jamesville Beach Park - 4355252, onondagacountyparks. com/jamesville-beach-park; Oneida Shores, Brewerton - 676-7366, onondagacountyparks.com/oneidashores-park; and, with its own amusement park, Sylvan Beach on Oneida Lake, sylvanbeach.org.

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315-598-8016 315-589-8016 21 Wilcox Road, Fulton, NY 13069