Staten Island Parent February 2014

FEBRUARY 2014

.com SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY PARENTING

KIDS & iPADS What You Need to Know

HOW TO START BABIES ON SOLID FOODS

AESOP’S FABLES

How Working With Fables Helps Children Build Literacy

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TABLE OF CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2014

ADVERTISER INDEX 95

COVER STORY 28 Simple Ways to Show Your Kids Love Your kids know you love them, right?

I'm sure they could still use a few extra strokes or simple reminders of how important they are to you. Try some new ways this month to say "I love you."

Read more on page 54

ARTICLES 26 Aesop’s Fables Use Aesop’s famous tales to teach decency and common sense

32 Kids and iPads What parents should know before handing over the iPad

52 Honoring our Presidents Interesting facts about two great American leaders

56 How to Start Babies on Solid Foods Know how your child is developmentally ready to accept solid foods

60 What’s Behind Dental Cavities Knowing what causes cavities can help you prevent them

COLUMNS 38 Ask the Doctor

by Anthony Barone, MD

44 Good Sports

by Joe LoVerde

48 Dear Teacher

CONTESTS & CLUBS 4 American Girl Doll Giveaway 41 Tommee Tippee Giveaway 69 Contest Winners 94 Birthday Club

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

62 Parent & Child Time

by Ann Clinton

66 Growing Up Online

by Carolyn Jabs

70 Gigi’s World

by Gigi & Gina LaGuardia-Schrecker

FAMILY NEEDS 64 It’s In The Cards 96 Party Services 98 Family Classifieds 100 Professional Directory

S. I. LIVING 20 Community & School News 41 Birth Announcements 68 Facebook Chatter 72 Family Calendar

SPECIAL SECTIONS 40 OMG...I’m a Mom! 50 Coupons

If You Can’t Get Out to Pick Up a Copy of S.I. Parent, View it Online Anytime on Your Tablet or Smartphone

www.siparent.com/digital_magazine.php

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Dear Friends, February is a month filled with celebrations and activities. Super Bowl Sunday and Ground Hog's Day start off the month. Please be sure to join us on our website www.siparent.com and Facebook page as we share plans, recipes and more. It is Children's Dental Health month - great time to call one of the the dentists sharing their brand in this month's issue. Also please go online to our Health Directory for more information about our dental community. If you always wondered about cavities, our article "What's Behind Dental Cavities" will provide you with useful information. You can always share with your dentist what you learned by reading S.I. Parent.

Valentine's Day of course is a special day for everyone regardless of age. How do you let your kids know you love them? One of my favorites is spend time with them - number 9 in our article "28 Simple Ways to Show Your Kids Love." Share with us on our Facebook page your unique ways.

If you are expecting or know someone who is please suggest our section "O.M.G. I'm a Mom" with them.

You can easily do this via our digital version which is found on our website. We have product reviews, an interesting article, giveaways, birth announcements and more in this section. If your baby is ready for solid foods what are your thoughts about our article "How to Start Babies on Solid Food" on page 56? Share your experience with us on our Facebook page.

Our team's goal is to provide you with the information you need to raise your family in Staten Island. Your feedback is always appreciated and wanted by us. We are at the beginning of the year, please email the team at info@siparent.com and let us know what you would like to read about in our upcoming issues.

Yes, the weather is cold and often a challenge during this time of the year. However you do not have to stay at home. Many of our advertisers offer activities that your children will enjoy. Go through the issue and you can find a lot of fun stuff to do with your children. Our Calendar of Events is bursting with activities for your family. www.siparent.comAs a reminder always go to our website www.siparent.com for updates and events that missed our print edition.

Win Isabelle, American Girl Doll's 2014 Girl of the Year

Whatever plans you make for your family this month, I hope that S.I. Parent has provided you with the information you need.You are important to us and we let you know by providing you with all the information you need to raise your children in Staten Island. Thanks for your loyalty and support - we love you. Happy Valentine's Day!

Isabelle, an inspired dancer with a flair for design, is studying ballet at a performing arts school in Washington, D.C. Each doll comes with a paperback book.

A $120.00 value!!

Enter online at siparent.com Click the “Contests & Clubs” Tab

STAFF

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Roselle Farina Hecht PUBLISHERS Roselle Farina Hecht Luciano Rammairone SENIOR EDITOR/ DESIGNER Gerri Friscia DESIGNER Michelle Yannaco

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & FINANCES Linda Bellesi EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Elizabeth Thompson OFFICE ASSISTANT Carole Stillman

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ilene Cohen Janine Mulé Cecilia Saccomagno Jodi Fatto TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Alex Levy

You can use a QR Code scanner on a smartphone to visit our website. Download one of the following free apps: QR Reader for iPhone, Barcode Scanner for Android and ScanLife for Blackberry S.I. Parent magazine is published 12 times a year. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. The publishers of this magazine do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or writers.

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News

A guide to community events

February has so many wonderful themes, it’s easy to just pick one and run with it!

Groundhog’s Day Valentine’s Day, Presidents’ Week, Black History Month are all great starting points for learning projects. If you have a child born in 2009, note that the NYC Public Schools Kindergarten admissions deadline is February 14th. Hunker down and enjoy the cozy warm comfort of your family this month!

Important February School News Monday, February 1: Chancellor’s Conference Day for staff development in all high schools. Only non D75 high school students will not be in attendance Tuesday, February 4: Spring Term begins for HS students Friday, February 14: Kindergarten Admissions Application Deadline (link to application at siparent.com) Monday, February 17: Presidents’ Day (Catholic Schools Closed) Monday, February 17 - Friday, February 21: Midwinter Recess (Public Schools Closed) Wednesday Evening, February 26: Intermediate Schools Parent-Teacher Conferences Thursday Afternoon, February 27: Intermediate Schools Parent-Teacher Conferences

hibernation and winter will continue for another six weeks. If he does not see his shadow, he will emerge to find a mate, signaling an early arrival for spring. For the Groundhog Day event, the Zoo's gates will open at 6:30am, with the ceremony beginning at 7am. The event is free to the public. You can make reservations to attend a breakfast with Chuck following the ceremony.

National Wear Red Day Friday, February 7 is National Wear Red Day. This is the 10th anniversary of the event, which helps raise awareness of women’s heart disease. Heart disease is the #1 killer of women, killing more women than all forms of cancer combined. Since launching the campaign back in 2003, National Wear Red Day has made tremendous strides in the fight to end heart disease in women, but there is still a lot more that needs to be done.

Aside from wearing red on February 7, you can help to end the disease by donating to Go Red for Women or creating a fundraising page. Visit www.goredforwomen.org to find out how you can help put an end to this deadly disease.

Groundhog Day at the Staten Island Zoo

National Children’s Dental Health Month

Once again Staten Island's very own groundhog, Chuck, will be making an appearance on February 2 to predict an early spring or an extended winter. According to tradtion, if Chuck emerges from his burrow and sees his shadow, he will return to

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Institutes of Health stress the importance of the first dental visit by one year of age to promote good oral health for your baby.

Flip through S.I. Parent magazine to find a friendly, local pediatric dentist who will keep your child’s smile beautiful and bright.

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Creating beautiful, healthy smiles in Staten Island

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News GMO-Free Cheerios Here’s some good news for parents looking to cut out GMOs in their child’s diet. General Mills is moving to eliminate genetically modified organisms from its Cheerios cereal. Nutritionally and chemically, the cereal will be identical to the previous version. This will simply give consumers who do not like to support planting more acres to genetically engineered crop varieties the option for a GMO-free version.

Lost Credit Card or Wallet If you lose a credit card of wallet, you can call the three national credit reporting agencies to immediately place a fraud alert on your name and social security number.

There are many companies that offer similar services but these are the three that are free and most reputable: Equifax – 800-525-6285 • Experian – 888397-3742 • TransUnion – 800-680-7289 You can request your free credit report from each of these organizations once a year, so it’s best to space your requests for every four months to cover the entire year.

Additionally, the number for Social Security Administration fraud line is 800-269-0271.

National Eating Disorders Awareness Week Sunday, February 23 to Saturday, March 1 is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. The ultimate goal of NEDAwareness Week is to increase outreach and awareness of eating disorders and body image issues, while reducing the stigma surrounding the disorders and improving access to treatment resources. There are several ways to get involved during NED Awareness Week: distribute info pamphlets and put up posters, register as a Volunteer Speaker or host a Volunteer Speaker, post information on social media, or plan interactive and educational events like a community meeting, panel discussion, Barbie event, movie screening, art exhibit, and more.

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If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, including

Eden II Programs is Pleased to Announce New

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• Do you struggle to find activities for your child during the summer?

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2-Week Bridge Program (children with autism ages 6-9) • A condensed version of the 6-week intensive program • Perfect for children who need focused preparation for the school year

Several payment options available FEBRUARY 2014

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News compulsive overeating, anorexia, and bulimia, Staten Island Overeaters Anonymous offers daily meetings covering a range of topics.

Each meeting is free and open to the public.

Children are also welcome to attend, if needed. You can find a link to their support group under the Resources tab at www.siparent.com.

Basketball History Scholarship Do you know a high schooler who lives and breathes basketball? If he can translate his love for the game through an original essay, a video, or photographs, he can be eligible for a $1,000 college scholarship. To celebrate their “The Black Fives” exhibition, the New-York Society is initiating a scholarship contest open to all metropolitan area high school students. Students are asked to submit essays, videos, or photographs answering the question: How has basketball profoundly changed NYC history, US history, or your own personal history? One entry in each category will be selected for a grand prize $1,000 college scholarship. More info can be found at www.blackfives.nyhistory.org.

Avoid Foreclosure

Hirshel Kahn, MD • Caroline Penrose, MD • Lisa Micik, PA

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Facing foreclosure and not sure what to do? NHS of Staten Island Inc., a 501c3 Not for Profit Organization, would like to help Staten Islanders take the steps to avoid foreclosure by offering free foreclosure prevention orientations throughout the months of February and March. This month’s orientations will be held Tuesdays, February 11 and 25. Visit our calendar on page 72 for details, including time and location.

That’s What Friends Are For Are you a member of our Family of Friends list? If not, you’re missing out! S.I. Parent’s Family of Friends members get first dibs on exclusive giveaways, fun recipes for kids, family-friendly events, and so much more!

Ballet ticket giveaway and fun fruit recipes are just a few of the features our Family of Friends enjoyed last month. To sign up, simply go to siparent.com and click the link on the top right of the page. We promise we won’t spam you; we’ll only send the good stuff!

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PARENTING 411

>>>

TEACHING DECENCY USING AESOP’S FABLES

ver 2,500 years ago, Aesop, a humble Greek slave storyteller lived and told fables that would endure for generations to come. His stories were gathered across the centuries and told in many different languages.

Many stories personify animals and inanimate objects that speak, solve problems, and carry universal lessons that stand true to this day. Even Abraham Lincoln would walk miles to borrow the great titles from Aesop’s Fables.

O

How are they relevant today?

Aesop’s fables are about decency and using common THE MANY LESSONS ILLUSTRATED BY AESOP’S FABLES ARE RELEVANT sense. Children today grow up TEACHING TOOLS, EVEN TODAY. very fast and are bombarded by media and technology. They are The printed word, like no other medium, has the power to exposed to some poor role models in sports and music. stay with us. Stories have always had the way of seeping into Decency is not as easy to achieve as one might think. our very core. Everyone has at least one story that has changed us or enlightened us in some way. The lessons While we fuss and panic about reading, writing, math tests, learned in Little Red Riding Hood were certainly not lost on and core curriculum, are we losing basics like respect, loyalty, me: Be careful who you trust; always listen to your parents; and a sense of fair play? Have we become a generation of always choose the path that you know to be the correct one. educated and privileged people who are willing to do As I child, I was Little Red Riding Hood, visiting my anything it takes to “get ahead?” Is this what we want for our grandmother, walking the neighborhood, following my children? mother’s precise directions.

We have the tools for teaching values at our fingertips.

First, there is you. Children learn what they live, and you are your child’s first and most important teacher. Think about the adult you want your child to be, and then be that adult.

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Teaching values to children is an important, albeit difficult, part of parenting. Retelling or reading fables is a way to make it fun and impressionable. Aesop, a captured slave, knew bad behavior when he saw it and he wanted people to be better,

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Below are several of Aesop’s fables. As you read the fable with your children, try discussing what you think the lesson might be before you read the moral.

Let’s begin with sincerity. Very young children don’t understand the truth and it is not unusual for them to live in a fantasy world. Once they enter the age of reason (usually by first grade), they can comprehend the difference between facts, opinions, and made-up tales. No childhood is complete without discussing the famous story of: “The Boy Who Cried Wolf” From this story derived the idiom,“cry wolf,” meaning to give a false alarm. This story of the shepherd boy who can’t help lying for attention is sure to grasp your child’s attention. Moral: If you often lie, people won’t believe you even when you are telling the truth.

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but he knew no wanted to be told they were bad. The tales he wrote are short and should be incorporated into your child’s regiment of reading. Read them aloud with your children on neutral ground. At the end of a fable, Aesop often tells us a lesson we should learn.

The lesson is called the moral of the story.

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“The Fox and the Grapes” Have you ever heard the expression “sour grapes?” In the story, the fox cannot reach his desired grapes so he gives up trying, telling himself, “I did not want those old grapes anyway, I’m sure they are sour.” Moral: When people cannot get what they want, they sometimes devalue it to make themselves feel better.

“Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” People sometimes use the phrase “a wolf in sheep’s clothing”, to describe someone who appears to be harmless or friendly, but is really dangerous or untrustworthy. In the story, a wolf disguises himself as a sheep to stroll among a flock of lambs. He preyed on the sheep until the shepherd decided to

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take the oversized ‘sheep’ for his own supper. Moral #1: Beware of someone trying to trick you. Moral #2: If you pretend to be what you are not, you might get caught.

There are many fables that warn against being greedy. Children seem to understand them very quickly.

“The Goose That Laid The Golden Egg” Killing a goose that lays golden eggs is an idiom used for an unprofitable action motivated by greed. This story is a bit gruesome as the greedy farmer does cut open the goose only to find nothing remarkable inside. His actions cause the demise of the goose, and hence the end to his profit. Moral: He who wants more often loses all. When you want something, be patient. If you are greedy, you might lose what you already have.

“The Dog and His Reflection” In this story, a dog, not content with the bone he is carrying, tries to take a bone from what he thinks is another dog. In reality, he is seeing his own reflection in a stream of water, and loses his bone when it falls in the water.

Moral: Don’t give up the real thing for something imagined. It is foolish to be greedy.

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Perseverance and patience and are important qualities to develop in today’s fast-paced world.

“The Tortoise and the Hare” In this very popular fable, a quickrunning hare ridicules a slow-moving tortoise. The tortoise then challenges him to a race, during which the overconfident hare takes a nap midway through the course while the tortoise trudges on even though he’s tired-eventually winning the race. Moral: Slow and steady win the race.

“The Crow and the Pitcher” In this story, a thirsty crow cannot drink from a pitcher because his beak is too long. One by one he drops pebbles

in the pitcher until the WHY TEACH WITH FABLES? water rises to within • Working with fables helps children build literacy. Children learn to recognize reach. Moral: Necessity is predictable narrative structures and patterns. They then can apply these to their the mother of invention own writing.

Fables are often used as passages on standardized test. and when there is a will, there is a way.

• They build ethical and moral development.

Aesop taught about.

“The Frog and the Well” Two frogs desperate for water, contemplate jumping into a well that may be the end of them.

Moral: Look before you leap.

• They develop an understanding of a metaphor.

Friendships and • They make connections to real world events. relationships need to be cultivated and nurtured.

Aesop had many stories teaching the morals of being a good “The Wild Boar and the Fox” friend and sticking together.

A fox taunts a boar, calling him silly for constantly sharpen his tusks. The boar knows that the time to sharpen his tusks is “The Lion and the Mouse” before they need to be sharpened. Moral: Be prepared.

A mighty lion saw no need to have a meekly mouse as a friend, until one day it is only the mouse that could free the lion The final fable is truly the most important one in my opinion. caught in a hunter’s trap by gnawing at the ropes. Moral: Little friends may prove to be great friends.

“The Crab and His Mother” A mother chastises her son for walking in a clumsy manner.

“The Lion and the Three Bulls” The child asks the mother to show him the correct way. It is In this story a lion tries to attack three bulls that were kept then that she realizes he is walking exactly as she does! Moral: together. By trickery, he separates them and each is not so Lead by example. powerful. Moral: United we stand, divided we fall.

Caution, discretion and preparation are three more qualities

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ELECTRONICS

>>> KIDS

AND IPADS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

ou love your iPad, and the kids do too.

However, you’re hesitant to hand over your tablet because various disaster scenarios keep popping up in your mind: Your preschooler deletes all of your apps. Your toddler ends up on the Internet. Purchases you didn’t authorize show up on your credit card statement. Your elementary schooler starts using questionable new words she heard on YouTube. And so on and so forth. Is there a way to make iPad use safe for you and your kids…or is it best to just keep your iPad out of reach of little hands?

Y

THERE ARE SETTINGS EVERY PARENT NEEDS TO KNOW BEFORE HANDING OVER THE IPAD Relax, and take your iPad down off the top shelf. A new book will help you to gain “Also, remember that educating yourself about how to peace of mind while your kids are tapping, sliding, and typing make your iPad kid-friendly isn’t just for your protection; it’s away. for theirs, too,” she adds. “When children are on the Internet with few or no restrictions, other people will have access to “Before you simply hand your iPad over to your kids and them, which no parent wants.” hope for the best, you should first do what you can to make using the device as safe as possible—but that can be a Here are some tips on how to set up your iPad so that the daunting task for iPad newcomers,” says Jinny Gudmundsen, whole family can enjoy the latest that technology has to author of iPad Apps For Kids For Dummies. “As a mother offer: myself, I understand how important it is for parents to have a reliable resource that will help them to make good choices Set up a password for your iPad. If you want to be in charge for their kids.” of iPad playtime, the easiest thing to do is make your kids come to you to unlock it. That way, Gudmundsen says, you’ll “Yes, iPads are easy to use, but they’re also so capable and always know when and where they’re using it. You can lock complex that most people don’t know half of the things that your iPad by turning on the Password Lock feature, which could go wrong until disaster has already struck,” she says. you’ll find by tapping Settings→General→Password Lock.

“That’s why it’s so important to have a guide that tells you Toggle the switch to turn the Password Lock to “On,” then what you should know up-front. I’ve spoken with numerous create a password. You can also set how quickly the Autoparents who had no idea that their kids could rack up major Lock comes on if the iPad is idle and whether closing the charges while playing a supposedly ‘free’ game, or that a cover triggers that lock. certain number of incorrect password guesses could erase all of the personal data on the device!

Turn off the Erase Data option. Imagine that your iPad is stolen (gasp!). The thief tries to break into it by guessing your FEBRUARY 2014

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password, but after ten failed attempts, the iPad “figures out” that something is up and a safety feature automatically erases your personal data. What a relief for you! But now picture this: Your kids get hold of your iPad, try to figure out what your password is, and the same thing happens. Suddenly, that dataerasing safety feature doesn’t look so great. If you want to keep your data safe in case your kids turn into pint-sized wannabe hackers, turn off the Erase Data option under Password Lock. Just be extra-careful not to leave your iPad in a place where it’s likely to be stolen!

Turn on the parental controls. Apple’s version of parental controls is called “restrictions.” To browse and activate them, go to Settings→ General→ Restrictions, and toggle the ones you want to use to “On.” Be aware that you’ll need to create another password for these, and that the options you see will vary depending on which iPad you are using and the operating system you are running. In general, though, you should be able to decide whether your kids will be able to: • Surf the web (Safari on the iPad) • Go to iTunes • Install apps • Delete apps • Use Siri (This option is only for iOS 6) • …And more!

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Set media parameters. Every parent knows the depth and breadth of the content that’s at the fingertips of anyone with Internet access…and that knowledge can be downright terrifying!

There are so many things you don’t want your children to see, hear, and read.

“Thankfully, the iPad allows you to set the age appropriateness of the media your kids use,” Gudmundsen says. “The setting you want is called Allowed Content, and you’ll find it under Restrictions. The options cover music and podcasts, movies, TV shows, books, and apps.

“It’s also worth noting that many apps made for kids now sport links to Facebook, Twitter, and the like,” Gudmundsen adds.“Because you have to

be 13 to use those social media services, it doesn’t make sense to clutter up a title page with those links, which take your child out of the app to a social network they can’t (and shouldn’t) be exploring. That’s why some app developers are putting those links under a child lock, which keeps kids away from information or links directed at parents. I’ve seen apps have parents tap five times in a row, use a combination of swiping, solve a math problem, and more in order to unlock the link.”

Don’t reveal your location. The iPad’s ability to pinpoint your geographical location can come in handy for the adults in your household (think searching for a great local restaurant while you’re on vacation), but it’s best not to take chances where your kids are concerned. If you have iOS 6, you can turn off an app’s ability to use your child’s location by going to Restrictions→Privacy.

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Turn off in-app purchases. Did you know that many free apps make money by offering players the option to spend real money on things used in the game? And did that little tidbit chill you to the bone? If so, you’re concerned for good reason: Kids have been known to run up hundreds— even thousands—of dollars of charges by playing “free” apps. These in-app purchases are frequently confusing to kids who have difficulty distinguishing between buying things with in-game currency and buying them with real money. If you opt to let your kids explore these games, make sure the InApp Purchases option is ‘Off,’ or at least make sure that you set the password requirement to ‘Immediately.’

Otherwise, if you enter your password and buy something for your child, he can then purchase more items without having to enter your password again for 15 minutes afterwards. These settings are found under Settings→General→Restrictions→All owed Content.

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at least, how many changes can be made—in just a few minutes. To protect your account from inadvertent (or mischievously purposeful) edits by your kids, select Don’t Allow Changes under Restrictions. With this tool, you can keep kids from adding, modifying, or removing e-mail, contacts, and calendars.

Restrict access to Apple’s Game Center. Game Center is an Apple app that comes pre-loaded onto your iPad. Users can play a variety of games with other people from around the world.

“Because Game Center can match players who don’t know each other, I recommend that you don’t allow these options for kids,” Gudmundsen shares. “This is a service meant to be used by older teens and adults. Set Multiplayer Games to ‘Off’ in Restrictions if you don’t want your kids to play with others.”

Buy a protective cover. This one is fairly self-explanatory!

Sturdy as it is, an iPad is still a fragile device, especially in the hands of children. You should talk to your kids about the iPad’s fragility, and you may also want to set rules about where it can be used.

Be wary of “free” apps. The adage “nothing in life is free” applies here. If a publisher offers an app for free, the app is

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FEBRUARY 2014

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probably still making money for the publisher somehow.

The most common model is to monetize a free app by placing ads inside it. Other free apps are only a “lite” version of the real thing, or require the player to buy things inside the game.

“The few exceptions to this rule are apps developed by nonprofit organizations and foundations—such as Alien Assignment, created by the Fred Rogers Center at Saint Vincent College, and good, free apps intended as advertisements for another product, such as LEGO Creationary,” she adds.

No matter how many safety features you activate on your iPad, don’t skip talking to your kids about what is and isn’t allowed, and make sure there are consequences in place for on-purpose iPad rule breaking. Overall, though, if you take the time to think about settings and restrictions, using the iPad will be safe, age-appropriate, and fun for your kids…and for you!

By Jinny Gudmundsen, author of iPad Apps For Kids For Dummies® and Kid-Tech columnist for USA TODAY and the Gannett newspaper chain. She is an authority on technology for kids, works for Common Sense Media, and is the editor of ComputingWithKids.com.

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A pregnant woman can unwittingly pass a bacterial or viral infection to her unborn baby, and the consequences can be devastating. These prenatal infections are a significant cause of illness for a fetus, and the effects can last throughout the child’s life — or can be fatal.

February is designated as International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month: to promote education on prenatal infections and help give every baby a chance at a healthy start to life.

Much of the discussion around prenatal infections focuses on what doctors call the TORCH infections. In many instances of these various infections, the mother may become only mildly ill, but the baby can still experience serious and lasting consequences.

TORCH is an acronym for a group of diseases that cause congenital conditions if a fetus is exposed to them in the uterus. TORCH includes toxoplasmosis, syphilis parvovirus, varicela, mumps, rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes.

Toxoplasmosis is a blood infection that can be contracted by eating contaminated foods or from exposure to cat feces.

Women who have lived with cats for some time may develop immunity to toxoplasmosis; a blood test can screen for that immunity. Effects of toxoplasmosis on a fetus might include epilepsy, jaundice, blindness, and premature birth.

Parvovirus is also included in the TORCH infections. It’s spread mainly through saliva and nasal secretions, but it can also spread through the blood. This is not the same parvovirus that affects cats and dogs; this parvovirus most often occurs in young children. Teachers get worried about it when they’re pregnant because if the kids have it and pass it on, it causes mom to get parvovirus and causes severe anemia in the baby.

Parvovirus can also be fatal to the baby, in rare cases.

Rubella, also known as German measles, is an infection often recognized by a telltale red rash. The MMR vaccine is effective in preventing the disease, which is why women considering becoming pregnant should check with their doctor to make sure they’ve been inoculated. Rubella can cause birth defects, deafness, or even the loss of a fetus.

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CMV is transmitted through bodily fluids such as saliva and blood; pregnant women are usually exposed to CMV. If a

pregnant woman becomes infected with CMV, her baby may develop permanent problems such as deafness, vision loss, or mental disabilities.

Herpes is a concern for pregnant women especially as the delivery date approaches. The infection can be transmitted during labor if the mother is contagious at that time. Newborn herpes is relatively rare, but it can be extremely serious. In some cases, a Cesarean delivery is required to prevent transmission to the baby. Some cases of newborn herpes are contracted after birth as well, so an infected mother’s precautions should continue after delivery.

Other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are also a major concern for pregnant patients in terms of prenatal infections, Dr. Barone says. “We need to make sure women get proper prenatal care so they can identify if they have any STDs and can be treated before the baby is born or gets infected. Even in the case of HIV, today a baby can almost always avoid sharing the mother’s infection, if she takes the necessary precautions. If it’s treated and mom is put on medication, transmission to the baby right now is nonexistent. They’ve gotten very good results if mom seeks proper care.

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In all cases, diagnosing the infection in the mother and monitoring the unborn child are critical to protecting the health of both. The bottom line is that good prenatal care is the crucial key to preventing prenatal infections. In order to receive optimal prenatal care, the expectant mother should share her complete medical history with her doctor. Be open with physicians about any past illnesses.

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Unconventional Spellings Unusual and borderline eccentric spellings have become the simplest way to become distinctive. The names are still traditional in their pronunciation, yet extremely unique in their spellings. Rules of grammar and morphology aside, this is a perfect fusion for parents who don’t want to stand out, but still want to give their child a name with a modern twist. As a way of breaking from stereotype, parents choose Izak, Karder, Riyan, Kooper, Mykel, Emhily, BrookeLynn, or Meeya.

It’s All About Show Business Every year there are new TV shows, movie blockbusters, and celebrity babies that serve as inspiration for parents when choosing a name for their child. We saw it when Twilight Saga’s Isabella became the most popular feminine given name in the U.S. a few years ago, when Aria from Pretty Little Liars skyrocketed from absolute zero popularity to one of the most favorite, and when Addison switched its usage from a boy to a girl thanks to the attractive and intelligent Dr. Addison Montgomery on Private Practice. The 2014 favorites will be Hayley and Camille from vampire craze The Originals, Piper from Orange Is the New Black, and Ichabod and Katrina from new TV series Sleepy Hollow. As for celebrity babies, odds are in favor of Milan (Shakira’s baby boy), Lincoln (Kristen Bell’s son), Everly (daughter of Channing Tatum), or Autumn (Jennifer Love Hewitt’s newborn).

Hispanic is Caliente Hispanic names are more and more popular, and not only with the Latino parents. With a rise in the Latino community in the United States, increasing number of White couples are giving their children Hispanic names. They might not appear among the first 10 most popular names in the US, but there’s no doubt their popularity will expand within the next decade.

Hence names such as Lola, Maria, Carmen, Sierra, Ernesto, Diego, Santos, Miguel, or Luis are likely to soar.

Return to the Bible Who wouldn’t like to go back to old traditions at some point?

After a few years of innovations and experimenting, parents are restoring old customs to regain the essence of religious values - welcome Isaac and Naomi! Biblical names are nothing new. Names like Jacob, Michael, or Noah have been scoring the highest popularity ranks for years, but the surge of other, previously less frequent Biblical names is about to hit in 2014: Caleb, Levi, Luke, Isaiah, Naomi, Shiloh, or Judith.

Mythological Names

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Our youngest son was a different person when he returned to high school in the fall to start his senior year — and a lot of his closest friends didn’t recognize him. Starting last spring, he put himself on a diet and fitness program that resulted in the extraordinary weight loss of 70 pounds. But the change has had much more than cosmetic benefits.

Mike was always athletic, so the 235 pounds he was carrying didn’t really look unhealthy. But when you reach the high school varsity level, the best players are typically bigger, stronger and faster.

So he decided to eat a more healthy diet, choosing fruit and carrots as his snacks of choice, and accelerated a fitness program he had been engaged in. He cut out the French fries, which isn’t easy when all your friends are scarfing them down all around you, and chose grilled chicken wraps instead.

The benefits, especially on the athletic field, have been quite drastic.

He’s got more speed, doesn’t tire as easily and is stronger. So even for a sport like baseball, where there is a lot of standing around, I’ve witnessed first hand the difference fitness can make for a young athlete.

How can your son or daughter best prepare to compete in the sport of their choice? The American Chiropractic Association lists some musts for youth athletes: • Wear the proper equipment • Eat healthy meals • Maintain a healthy weight • Drink water • Drink milk • Avoid sugar-loaded, caffeinated and carbonated drinks • Follow a warm-up routine • Take vitamins daily • Avoid trendy supplements • Get plenty of rest These days, kids seem to think that getting dressed for their games means having that tough hairstyle, wearing titanium

bracelets and necklaces, or using eyeblack as war paint. But it’s a heck of a lot more important to have helmets, pads, and shoes that fit properly. Baseball, softball, lacrosse, and hockey players should consider heart guards.

GIVE YOUR YOUNG ATHLETE THE CARE THEY DESERVE AT

Eating healthy was probably the most important change my son made, and not just because it helped fuel the weight loss.

He no longer has elevated blood pressure, something that is reaching epidemic levels for kids these days.

Going to the gym, running a few miles at the park, and banging out sit-ups and crunches when watching TV were also factors in helping him get to the perfect weight and stay there.

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Water is a constant. It will keep an athlete hydrated, which allows the body to perform at its optimum level and prevents the body temperature from going haywire.

When I was a kid, we were only allowed to drink milk and not sodas. Mom was right.

Failing to warm up for any activity, especially as kids reach their teens, is asking for an injury. And even though the real young ones usually are plenty flexible, teaching them to warm up is a good habit.

Being our youngest, Mike often kept late hours as we dragged him to his brothers’ or sister’s activities. But the new, improved version gets to bed at a decent hour much more regularly.

My wife and I are surely relieved that we now have a healthier child, but it’s also just nice to watch how it’s made a difference for him as an athlete. He leads the pack during warmup runs instead of bringing up the rear, and has so much more energy and confidence.

That can only lead to a lot more enjoyment on the playing field — which is why you play the games in the first place.

Joe LoVerde has been coaching youth sports on Staten Island for nearly 40 years. He’s also a longtime newspaper editor and sportswriter.

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DEAR TEACHER

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

Teaching Children to Deal With Failure Question: How can you teach kids to deal with failure? When my child brings home a bad grade, she freaks out. What can I do to help this situation? -- Freak Out's Mom

Solid Advice on Improving Children’s Basic Skills and Addressing Parental Concerns

Answer: Everyone likes to succeed. Who doesn't want to get the promotion, ace the quiz or be on the winning soccer team?

It is natural to be disappointed when you fail at something.

Nevertheless, children have to learn to cope with failure, from losing a board game to failing a test. This does not mean accepting that they won't do well in an endeavor, but rather learning how to turn things around so they are successful most of the time.

When children get bad grades, it is usually because they simply have not mastered the material. For the most part, children need to improve their study skills. This can mean paying closer attention to what is said in class, reading and rereading textbook materials, and consistently doing homework.

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When your child brings home a bad grade, make it a habit to go over the paper or test with her after she has calmed down.

Help her explore where she made mistakes and how she could have done better. Be sure to talk long and hard about the material that she handled correctly and why this happened. This is important. Also, it is essential that she correct all of the material that was incorrect so she can say: "Now I understand what the right answers are." By doing this, she will be able to handle the material when she sees it again, as usually happens.

School just gets harder and harder every year, so you want your child to begin to develop a "can do" attitude. You do not want her to become a child who gives up easily and expects to fail. Should there be an area in which your child is truly in over her head, get her help as soon as possible.

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Question: My second-grader simply can't sound out most new words; however, she is a very good reader. If you tell her what a word is, she remembers it or figures it out through context. Her teacher's reaction is: "Some kids just don't get phonics." This remark bothered me. Is it important for my child to become more skilled with phonics? -- Good Reader

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Answer: Children learn to read in different ways. Your daughter is a sight reader. This is the way children were taught to read years ago. It would be helpful if your daughter could use

phonics to recognize the first sound in words, as it would make it easier for her to use context in recognizing them. While she may never be great at phonics, it is highly probable that she already has some knowledge of phonics simply through her ability to read so well.

You should be able to increase your child's knowledge of phonics by teaching her some common word families. A word family is a combination of letters that makes a certain sound. If your child knows the sound of a word family, such as -ay, she would be able to sound out and read -ay family words including hay, day, may, say and pay.

The word family approach is incorporated in many basal reading series, phonics systems, reading-readiness lessons and spelling series. When your child cannot sound out a word, recognizing a word family in it will help her to do so.

Here are the 38 most commonly used word families used in one syllable words: -ay,- ill, -ip, -at, -am, -ag, -ack, -ank, -ick, -ell, -ot, -ing, -ap, -unk, -ail, -ain, -eed, -y, -out, -ug, -op, -in, -an, -est, -ink, ow, -ew, -ore, -ed ,-ab, -ob, -ock, -ake, -ine, -ight, -im, -uck and -um.

Your daughter can have fun learning these words. Introduce her to a word family and then have her see how many words she can write. For reading practice, visit dearteacher.com and look at our Skinny Books that are word family readers.

The Kindergarten Readiness Assessment Test Question: My child has to take a kindergarten-readiness assessment before she will be allowed to sign up for kindergarten. How should I help her to prepare for this test? I definitely want her to get a good score. – Testing Answer: To be honest, you should not feel obliged to prepare your child for this test because there is usually very little at stake.

For the most part, kindergarten-readiness tests are used to identify children who may need special instruction and to individualize kindergarten instruction. Only 25 percent or less of all school districts use these tests to recommend that a child's entry into kindergarten be delayed. You can easily find out the purpose of this readiness test by contacting the school.

You can, of course, go online and look for kindergartenreadiness tests if you want to see what they are like. As far as preparation goes, you could make sure that your child can print his or her name and identify most of the letters of the alphabet.

And do be sure to describe the testing situation to the child so he or she will feel comfortable on test day.

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U.S. HISTORY

HONORING OUR PRESIDENTS residents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln both made their marks on American history, so much so that every year Americans celebrate their birth and influence with Presidents' Day. Established in 1800, President's Day once went by a different name. Known as Washington's Birthday, this day was meant to celebrate the first President of the United States, George Washington, whose birthday was February 22. Congress declared that day a federal holiday more than 200 years ago, and eventually the holiday grew to become a celebration of President Abraham Lincoln, who was born on February 12.

The holiday is now a celebration of the lives and accomplishments of every U.S. president.

P

Few Americans would be hard pressed to identify George Washington's visage, which is depicted on some American currency, including the $1 bill. Born in 1732 to Virginia planters, Washington's interests included western expansion, which he was able to take part as a teenager, helping to survey the Shenandoah lands at the age of 16.

Washington was also interested in military arts, and he was commissioned a lieutenant colonel in 1754, eventually playing a role in what became the French and Indian War. In 1787, Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, where the new Constitution was ratified. Within two years Washington was unanimously elected as the first President of the United States.

Though the current two-term limit was not law at the end of Washington's second term, he chose to retire from the Presidency anyway, leaving office in 1797. He would retire to his Virginia home at Mount Vernon, where he still engaged in various business dealings. Within three years of his retirement, however, Washington would fall ill of a throat infection that ultimately took his life on December 14, 1799.

Washington's legacy is that of a hero who led an army of colonists to a victory over a dominant empire. The Washington Monument and Mount Rushmore are two of the more notable monuments honoring the first President of the United States. In addition, the nation's capital of Washington, D.C. is so named in honor of George Washington.

George Washington may have been the country's first president, but Lincoln is perhaps more frequently celebrated for his profound efforts to abolish slavery. He is best known for presiding over the United States during the Civil War and signing the Emancipation Proclamation, which liberated slaves across the country. While much is widely

known about Lincoln and his life, there are some lesserknown tidbits that only historians or history buffs seem to know. Here are some facts about the man that aren't as widely known: Towering over others at a height of 6 feet 4 inches tall, Lincoln remains the tallest president to hold office. It is likely his stature helped to present an air of authority during his presidency. Despite his stature, however Lincoln apparently had a high-pitched voice and not a deep timbre.

Lincoln had two romantic interests before he married Mary Todd in 1842. Lincoln was in a relationship with Ann Rutledge, who died of typhoid fever. He also courted Mary Owens for some time before they ended their relationship.

Lincoln was notoriously messy. His law office was often cluttered, much to the chagrin of his partner William Herndon. It is said Lincoln kept an envelope on his desk marked, "When you can't find it anywhere else, look into this."

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Lincoln was the first president to be photographed at his inauguration. His future assassin, John Wilkes Booth, can be seen in a photo standing close to the president.

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In 1849, Lincoln obtained Patent No. 6,469 for a device that was designed to lift and keep boats afloat when they passed over a sandbar or entered shallow water. Lincoln served as a ferry operator and flatboat pilot prior to entering politics.

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Lincoln took his dreams seriously and was purported to be interested in psychic research and activities. Before his election to the presidency, Lincoln said he was startled by a vision of a double image of himself. The second image was pale, according to accounts. His wife was led to believe the vision meant Lincoln would be elected to two terms as president and die during the second.

Lincoln's beard is almost as famous as the man. He was urged by advisors to grow a beard during his first term to soften some of his harsh features.

Lincoln was born to Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks.

Actor Tom Hanks is a distant relative of the former president.

Lincoln accepted a challenge to a duel with James Shields, a state auditor. Lincoln chose a broadsword as the weapon, but Shields decided to work through his differences with Lincoln amicably rather than face him in the duel.

The contents of Lincoln's pockets on the night he was killed were not revealed until February 12, 1976. They included: two pairs of spectacles and a lens polisher, a pocketknife, a watch fob, a linen handkerchief, and a brown leather wallet containing a five-dollar Confederate note and nine newspaper clippings, including several favorable to the president and his policies. * *Source of contents list: The Library of Congress, American Memory

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COVER STORY

28 Simple Ways to Show Your Kids

Your kids know you love them, right?

I'm sure they could still use a few extra strokes or simple reminders of how important they are to you. Try some new ways this month to say "I love you."

1. Surprise them with a new game on Saturday morning. Enjoy donuts and hot chocolate while learning to play the game. Be sure to include the whole family.

2. Tell them the story of their birth. Show pictures of how they looked as a newborn and talk about who came to visit in the beginning. Make sure they know how excited you were when they entered your life.

9. Play outside together on a cold day. Make snow angels.

Go sledding one more time.

10. Accompany them to walk the dog. Ask about their day at school or a budding friendship. Listen more than you talk.

11. Allow them to be messy. Play with finger paints and play-doh.

Go outside and spray silly string on each other.

3. Love them despite their faults. Offer them grace freely and often.

4. Find a unique quality about each of your children and praise them for it. Whether it's a sensitive spirit toward a sibling or a quickto-forgive gesture toward friends, tell them how it makes them special.

5. Indulge in a child-specific treat and enjoy some one-on-one time together. Ask for input and make plans ahead so your child knows it's a special occasion.

6. Compliment your child in front of another adult. Be specific with an example of good behavior as you beam with pride.

7. Praise their efforts, not just results. Don't expect perfection on every chore or straight-A's on every report card. Let them know you notice when they do their best.

8. Let them pick their favorite book and read to them, even when you don't want to.

12. Display their artwork on your refrigerator or window. Talk about what a great job they did and how you love to look at it every day.

13. Put a surprise in their lunch. Include a note that says, "I love you."

14. Get off social media and completely tune in when they're talking. Refrain from multi-tasking and focus on their needs.

15. Patiently help with homework. Don't raise your voice when you have to explain it one more time.

16. Ask for their ideas when you plan your next vacation. Look at fun places to visit on the computer and dream together for future trips.

17. Sit under the stars and talk about the beauty of God's creation.

18. Take off your serious hat and make them laugh. Tell jokes or watch a funny movie together. Tickle them until they cry.

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19. Offer a no-rules day. Let your kids stay in their pj's all day and eat and play whatever they want.

20. Ask your child to sing to you. Join in and finish the song as a duet. Let your child know you love hearing her beautiful voice.

21. Surprise them with a simple gift through the mail such as a comic book, a glow-in-the-dark pencil, or their favorite player's card. Include a note of "I love you."

22. Make s'mores around the fire pit or roast marshmallows in the fireplace. Include a cup of hot cocoa or favorite beverage with it.

23. Start fun traditions for holidays and birthdays that your child can look forward to as a family.

24. Get to know their friends and encourage healthy friendships. Take everyone out for a movie night or bowling night once in awhile.

25. Be their biggest fan. Let them experiment with sporting activities, music lessons, and other extracurricular activities. Cheer them on as they seek to find what fits for them.

26. Allow them to be different from you.

27. Treat them with respect. Don't interrupt when they're talking. Ask for their opinion as often as possible and include them in family decisions as they get older.

28. Hug, kiss, and shower them with physical affection every day. Tell them at least once a day, "I love you."

Bu Gayla Grace, a freelance journalist who is always looking for new ideas on how to show love to her five children.

PARENTING 411

>>>

HOW TO START BABIES ON SOLID FOODS

s many new parents can attest, a new baby brings with it many mysteries. Considering children do not come with instruction manuals, it's up to Mom and Dad to learn the ropes through trial and error and with some advice from pediatricians, friends and relatives.

A

One error new parents commonly make is introducing solid foods to their infants before the babies are ready.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and Health Canada now recommend infants should not start solid foods until age six months. Breast milk or infant formula should be the food of choice for infants younger than six months.

IT'S NOW RECOMMENDED THAT PARENTS WAIT UNTIL THEIR INFANT IS SIX MONTHS OF AGE BEFORE INTRODUCING SOLID FOODS TO HIS OR HER DIET.

A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity surveyed 1,334 women before they gave birth, and nearly every month during the first year of the child's life.

Mothers were asked to report feeding habits. Forty percent of mothers gave their babies solid foods prior to age four months. The most common reason for giving the food was the mothers believed the baby was old enough to begin eating solid foods. Mothers also said that the baby seemed hungry a lot and was not satiated by breast milk or formula alone. More than 50 percent of mothers in the study responded that a doctor told them the baby could start solid food before four months old.

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Children who are introduced to solid foods too early may not be developmentally ready to accept these foods. Studies also have linked the early introduction of solid foods with an increased risk of chronic diseases, such as obesity and eczema, later in life. Babies also may not be physically able to move their tongues and swallow properly to handle solid foods. Here are some guidelines for knowing when and how to introduce solid foods to a baby's diet.

Recognize readiness signs. Signs that your child is ready for solid foods include the ability to sit up and lean forward, good head control, the ability to pick up food and try to put it in his or her mouth and the ability to turn his or her head away to indicate fullness. If the baby watches you while eat and seems interested in your food, this may also indicate a readiness for solid food.

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“A Lifeline for a Lifetime” Serving Staten Island Residents of All Ages Who Are Developmentally Challenged • Clinical outpatient services including diagnosis, treatment, specialized therapies, and supportive services for children and their families • Full day preschool inclusion classes at Head Start centers • Saturday socialization groups for children with autism • Parent partnership in all programs

Comprehensive CPSE Evaluations

718.448.9775 657 Castleton Ave. www.simhs.org Early Childhood Program services are funded by local and state taxes earmarked for special education and other services. Transportation for the Preschool Inclusion Classes available at no cost to parents.

SUMMER DAY CAMP

ACCEPTING REGISTRATION FOR:

at Big Bird’s Playhouse

Toddler, Nursery & Summer Camp UPK classes for Children Born in 2010

Serving Staten Island Since 1991 While Providing Children With a Safe, Fun-filled Summer

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Beautiful, Safety Surfaced Playground Easily Accessible • Plenty of Parking Licensed Experienced Teachers • Family-Like Atmosphere Licensed by the NYC Dept of Health Bureau of Day Care Open 6:30am-7:00pm Accommodating Working Parents Accepting Children Ages 2-5 for Our Toddler, Nursery & Pre-reading Skills Programs - P/T & F/T: 1 to 5 Days 20% 2nd child discount and ACS Vouchers Accepted ENRICHMENT CLASSES: Tue, Wed & Thurs • 3:15 - 4:15

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STATEN ISLAND’S PREMIER BASKETBALL CENTER ays, Field D More! l o o h c rS ls & Great fohool Rehearsa c S Dance

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CELEBRATE YOUR CHILD’S BIRTHDAY PARTY AT FASTBREAK BASKETBALL CENTER We’ll entertain the kids with the best 2 hour basketball party ever!

Children will play on our new basketball court with instructors for fun & games; we provide pre-printed basketball invitations, party room with pizza, drinks, cake coffee and paper goods.

Birthday child receives a Fastbreak Basketball T-shirt.

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FRIDAY NIGHT OPEN GYM (ALL YEAR ROUND) 7PM-10PM Co-Ed grades 3-8 $15 for three hours of fun & games Music, Basketball, Ping Pong, Knock Hockey, Karaoke, Wii

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SPRING PROGRAMS FUNdamental Clinic K-2nd Grade Your children will learn to dribble with both hands and shoot a lay-up, pass/catch, play defense and most important–the basics of team play!!

10 week session.

Adhere to the recommended guidelines. Breast milk and formula are nutritionally sound food sources for growing babies. Introducing complementary foods too early can lead to nutrient deficiency.

Begin with one food at a time.

Most pediatricians recommend starting out with iron-fortified cereals as the first solid foods because they're least likely to cause an allergic reaction. These cereals can be diluted with milk or formula to make them more palatable. Others prefer to start with an iron-rich vegetable. Good starter vegetables include sweet potatoes, squash and peas. Before adding any more solid foods, stick with the initial food for at least one week or more to determine if the child can tolerate the food.

Pay attention for signs of allergies.

Rashes, wheezing, gas, fussiness, vomiting, and diarrhea could be indicative of a food allergy. If your child exhibits such symptoms, stop giving him or her the food and consult your pediatrician. Wait until your baby is at least one year of age before introducing foods that commonly cause allergies, including citrus foods, shellfish, nuts, and egg whites.

Avoid honey. Honey can contain life-threatening botulism. It should be kept off the menu until your child reaches his or her first birthday. Many parents wait until a child becomes a toddler before introducing honey.

Small Group lessons • Grades 3-9 Ball handling, passing, shooting, defense, rebounding, screening, etc.

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New class every six weeks A great opportunity to introduce young children to a wide range of sports and games. Each week a different sport will be the focus of drills and games teaching young athletes the basic skills of soccer, football, basketball, hockey, baseball and much more. Experience sports in a fun and exciting atmosphere.

236 Richmond Valley Rd 718-948-3710 • www.fastbreakhoops.com

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Introducing solid foods to infants should only be done when the child is developmentally ready.

Read S.I. Parent on your Tablet or Smartphone

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Traditional Japanese Karate on Staten Island Since 1981 FEBRUARY 2014

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HEALTH

>>>

WHAT'S BEHIND DENTAL CAVITIES?

avities are a problem for adults and children alike. Some people seem more susceptible to cavities than others, and the pH of the mouth and other factors may play a role in the formation ofcavities.

C

The number of dental caries, or cavities, increases with age.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, dental decay remains the most prevalent chronic disease in both children and adults, even though it is largely preventable. Although it may seem like children who love sugar would have the highest rate of cavities, data actually shows that 92 percent of adults in the U.S. age 20 to 64 have dental caries in their permanent teeth and an average of 3.28 missing teeth. Canadian oral health statistics indicate that 96 percent of adults have dental caries.

KNOWING WHAT CAUSES DENTAL CAVITIES CAN HELP YOU PREVENT THEM.

What causes a cavity?

Bacteria is the main culprit behind cavities. Bacteria migrate into the mouth and are constantly present on the gums, teeth and tongue. While most oral bacteria are not harmful, certain types can prove troublesome. Bacteria attach to the enamel of the teeth and eventually start to form a colony. Proteins present in saliva mix with the bacteria, which then forms a hard layer on the tooth known as plaque.

Sugar plays a role in the process because the bacteria use sugar as a food source. The sugar also helps them stick to the tooth surface, making it more difficult for bacteria to be cleared away with saliva. As bacteria eat the sugar, they produce waste, which is acidic. Over time, this acid can wear away at the tough enamel on teeth, making it porous. These holes can become bigger, eventually forming what is known as a cavity.

It may take a while before you realize you have a cavity because the enamel of the tooth doesn't have nerve fibers. But once the cavity becomes large enough to expose the sensitive dentin within, pain ensues.

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Preventing cavities Cavities can be largely prevented by brushing and flossing regularly to remove extra bacteria from the teeth, and preventing them from attaching and building up on the teeth.

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings also play a preventative role. Dentists have equipment that can effectively clean teeth in areas that can sometimes be difficult to keep clean with just manual brushing.

High susceptibility to cavities Medications and biology can affect the pH of a person's mouth and contribute to the formation of dental caries. When pH drops, demineralization of the tooth enamel occurs and cavities form.

Some forms of bacteria contribute to tooth decay more than others.

As mentioned, sugar feeds bacteria growth. Research by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has found that it's not often the amount of sugar eaten at a given time, but the frequency of sugar exposure that can lead to cavities. Sucrose, it seems, is bacteria's prefered energy source. Saliva production is important for keeping bacteria at bay. Individuals who produce less bacteria, due to medication or their physical history, may be more susceptible to cavities.

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Universal Prekindergarten Open Enrollment For All Classes All Year Round Free Universal Pre-K for Four Year Old Children (Extended Hours Available) Servicing the South Shore for 20 years

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michaeldesimonetherapy.com

HELPING ADULTS, CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH

Anxiety • Fears & Worries • Anger Depression • Grief & Sadness Insecurity & Shyness Self Esteem & Relationship Problems In a Private, Comfortable and Confidential Setting

For information or consultation call 718-650-9000 or e-mail michael.w.desimone@gmail.com 175 Burbank Ave (New Dorp) Follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/MichaelDeSimonePhD

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PARENT & CHILD TIME

By Ann Clinton

Erica drove her car up into the driveway, shut off the engine and sat back. She looked at her sister as Monica began to gather up the grocery bags.

Icicles and “I think we remembered everything we need to Cookies bake our Valentine cookies,” Erica said as she looked at Monica for agreement.

“With three grocery bags, I hope we have everything for our Valentine cookies,” Monica laughed as she opened the car door. She got out of the car and picked up the one grocery bag Erica had not taken when she got out of the car.

Monica stood for a moment. It was a cold night, and there still was some snow left on the ground. She kept looking at the house and called to Erica who was now by the front door.

Erica put down the two grocery bags and walked back to stand next to her sister.

“What am I looking at?” she asked.

Monica responded by pointing up at the eave and saying, “What does that look like? Does it remind you of anything?”

Erica followed the direction Monica was pointing at and saw icicles hanging off the edge of the house. “I see icicles hanging over the side of our house.”

“Do the icicles remind you of anything?” Monica asked.

Erica stepped back another foot or so and looked up at the icicles and said, “I just see cold, icy icicles.”

Monica looked at her sister and said, “Yeah, there are icicles. Do they remind you of anything? To me, the icicles hanging there at the edge, the five icicles remind me of five long, cold fingers.”

Erica looked at the icicles, the five icicles and said, “I didn’t see that right away but now that you mention it, the icicles do look like fingers – there is the longest one in the middle and the chunky end one could be a thumb. And, now I’m freezing, let’s go in and bake cookies and get warm.” She started to walk toward the front door and Monica followed her. Suddenly, Erica stopped. Monica almost bumped into her.

“Erica, why did you stop? I thought you were cold.”

“I am, Monica, but I’m reminded of something about icy fingers.”

“I know what you mean, Erica.”

“How do you know what I’m thinking?” Erica asked her sister. “Can you read my mind?”

“No, I’m not reading your mind exactly. I just remember reading some of Grandma’s poems when you were typing them. You mentioned one, I don’t remember the title but it had something like icy fingers,” Monica explained.

“Yes, that’s it,” Erica agreed.

“Can we go inside now? I’m freezing.”

QUIZ

“Me, too,” Erica said as she opened the front door and walked inside.

Monica followed and said, “Oh how lovely it is in a warm house on a cold night.”

“Why were the two of you standing outside looking at the sky?” their mom wanted to know.

“We weren’t looking at the sky. We were looking at the icicles on the house. Some looked like fingers, I thought. Want to see?” Monica answered.

Their mom laughed. “I’ll look when I go outside again. It is too cold now.”

Erica said, “As soon as I put these groceries down, I’m getting Grandma’s poems.”

“Why do you need Grandma’s poems?” their mom asked.

“Wait till I get the right poem. I’ll read it and I think you will see why I’m thinking of the poem now,” Erica explained.

Monica started assembling the ingredients they needed to bake the Valentine cookies while Erica went to look for the poem.

In a few minutes, Monica had all the ingredients lined up on the counter and Erica returned to the kitchen with a clear plastic folder.

“Here are the poems. It is in here. It will just take a second to find the right one.”

Erica had turned several pages before she finally said, “Here it is. It is called ‘Seasons.’ The line I like that today’s icicles reminded me of is: ‘Crystal fingers tap on the panes.’”

Before either Erica or Monica could say anything else, they heard their mom say at the front door, “I thought I saw you boys walking up to the house. Come on in.”

“Hi, Aunt Ann. Are Erica and Monica here?” Liam asked.

“Yeah, Aunt Ann. We came over to watch a movie with Monica and Erica,” Philip remarked.

Monica and Erica greeted their cousins and Monica said, “We’re going to start our Valentine cookies and then we’ll watch the movie. Is Ryan coming?”

Philip said, “No, Ryan is working on some papers for law school” “Okay, then. Do you want to help us with the cookies or do you want to watch TV?” Erica asked.

Philip said, “I’ll watch the hockey game,” and Liam said, “I’ll help with the cookies. I like to break the eggs.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Why did Erica and Monica buy groceries?

What did Monica notice on the house?

Where was Ryan?

How many grocery bags did they have?

Why did Philip and Liam come to see Erica and Monica?

Ann Clinton is a Staten Island grandmother who enjoys creating stories for her grandchildren.

South Shore Toddler Academy & Preschool Preschool Ages 2-6

Established 1969

• Social/emotional skills stressed • Readiness curriculum in all areas • Full & Half Day Sessions Zumba, • Flexible Hours Kinderdance • Outdoor Play Yard & Tai-Chi • Licensed Staff and School • Accepting UPK Applications

718.356.3563 • 11 Sampson Ave (Off Giffords Lane in Great Kills)

Created By You PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY STUDIO

PAINTING WITH THE EASTER BUNNY April 5 & 6 $25 per person Reserve Your Spot– Four Sittings: 11am, 12pm, 1pm • Paint an Easter Plate • Story Time & Pictures with Easter Bunny (Bring your camera!)

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FAMILY NEEDS It’s In The Cards

Interested in Advertising?

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FAMILY NEEDS It’s In The Cards

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GROWING UP ONLINE

by Carolyn Jabs

Home of the Staten Island Special Education Parent Center

Does Your Child Have A Disability or Special Health Care Needs?

YOU ARE NOT ALONE! “WE CARE, WE’VE BEEN THERE”

Parent to Parent is a support network and is the Staten Island Parent Resource Center for children with Special Education Needs, Developmental Disabilities, Behavioral Challenges and Special Health Care Needs.

Founded and directed by parents of children with special needs.

For More Information Call 718.494.4872 Fax: 718.494.4805 1050 Forest Hill Rd • SI, NY 10314 Email: siptp@aol.com

Big Bird’s Playhouse Spanish Speaking Teacher

Early Childhood Development Program

REGISTER NOW FOR PRE-SCHOOL EXTENDED HOURS AVAILABLE FROM 6:30AM-6:30PM

Meals & Snacks Included Daycare & Pre-School 6 Weeks to 5 Years Before & Afterschool Drop Off / Pick Up at P.S. 22, P.S. 54, P.S. 58, P.S. 60, P.S. 69 Trained in First Aid and CPR • Low Tuition (Breakfast and Lunch Included) Register Now UFT, 1199, ACD & HRA Vouchers For Half Day UPK– Children in Diapers Accepted Free for children 9 Fully Air-Conditioned Classrooms born in 2010.

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When the Oxford Dictionary pronounced “selfie” word of the year for 2013, they simply confirmed what parents already knew. Thanks to cellphones equipped with cameras, people, especially kids, are taking lots of pictures of themselves and posting those pictures on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Vine and other social media sites.

COMMON SENSE ABOUT SELFIES

The urge to capture an image of one’s self has been controversial ever since Narcissus starved to death because he couldn’t look away from his own reflection. Today parents are asking whether a selfie is an unhealthy form of self-absorption or a creative form of self-expression? The answer, of course, is “It depends.”

For better or worse, taking selfies and getting reactions from other people has become one way that teens answer the age-old questions: Who am I and how do I fit into the world? Since there’s no way to put this genie back into the bottle, parents need to help teens think about the role that selfies should play in their lives.

Instead of making hard and fast rules that will inevitably get broken, parents can use the selfie explosion as a teachable moment that will help children think about who they want to be and how they present themselves. Here are some topics worth talking about: What’s the motive? People have lots of different reasons for takin selfies. Teens, in particular, may want to try out different looks, experiment with creative effects, record experiences or share those experiences with friends. In general, parents can encourage selfies that get a young person to reflect on their own experiences. Unfortunately, because selfies are posted in social media, many teens become hyperaware of the effect they are having on others. In pursuit of “likes”, teens may post photos that reveal too much or are intended to provoke envy in others. Help your child understand that although everyone enjoys approval from other people, self esteem has to be based on something more solid. Is your child living up to their own ideals? Do they have the respect of people they trust? If so, likes, and for that matter dislikes, will matter much less to them.

What’s the platform? Parents can learn a lot by knowing where a teen prefers to post selfies. Facebook has earned the derogatory name of Fakebook because so much of what shows up there is carefully curated to make the person look happy, normal and successful. At the other extreme, Snapchat tends to be used for photos that are funny, outrageous or provocative. Because the selfie is supposed to disappear in a few seconds, there’s more of a sense that anything goes. On Instagram, selfies tend to be more carefully composed, and users are often aware that they are playing a part for the camera. Talk to your child about where he or she posts and why that’s the preferred platform.

How frequent are posts? Many young people go through a phase in which they want to document everything that happens in their lives. Although these photos may be meaningful to your child, encourage her to be selective about what goes online. One research study found that, instead of promoting closeness, posting too many selfies actually decreases the sense of connection. You may also want to talk about how taking pictures alters and may diminish an experience. In one interesting study, researchers found that young people on a trip to a museum were much more likely to remember what they had seen if they weren’t taking photos.

What about editing? Loving the face and body you have can be challenging in adolescence, so kids are often tempted to use tools that will “improve” upon their looks. Some apps add filters, frames and splashes of color. Others make it possible to alter the photo itself, airbrushing out flaws and doing what one commentator called “selfie surgery.” Although girls seem more drawn to these tools than boys, there are plenty of selfies in which guys have substituted a better six-pack. Talk to your child about what tools they use to change their selfies. Is this a digital version of dress-up?

Where do they get their ideas about how people “should” look?

What are the complications of looking one way in a photo and another way in real life?

Are sexy selfies OK? In a culture saturated with sexual images, it’s not surprising that young people want to imitate what they see.

This is one area where rules may actually be helpful , but before you talk to your child, think about your own sense of what’s appropriate.

Are you OK with photos of kids in swimsuits? What about pajamas or underwear? Is it OK for a teen to post a selfie from bed? In front of the bathroom mirror? Coming out of the shower? How much make-up is acceptable? How do you feel about the sexy pout, aka the duck face? Sometimes, for pre-teens and teens, the simplest rule is the best—if you’d be embarrassed to show the photo to your Mom, don’t put it online.

How about an unselfie now and then? Most adults find they are happiest when they think less about themselves and more about other people. Give your child a glimpse of this possibility by encouraging unselfies that highlight connections with other people or activities done for the common good. Some people have also begun using unselfies to promote ideas and causes that make the world a better place. You’ll find examples you can share with your child at www.unselfie.me.

The point of all of these conversations is to bring selfies out of the shadows so kids can think more clearly about what they are doing. When selfies make young people more self-aware, they can definitely be a constructive part of growing up.

By Carolyn Jabs, M.A., who raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has written Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses conflict. Other columns are available at www.growing-up-online.com. @ Copyright, 2014. Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

N EW D ORP CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 259 Rose Ave & 10th St (New Dorp)

tion” ve Excellence in Academic and S “Achie piritual Educa

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CALL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO TOUR NDCA Nursery School Classes for 3 & 4 Year Olds Extended Day Care Hours Also Available Full Day Kindergarten Through 8th Grade Christian Performing Arts Program K-8th Grade Computer Classes After School Activities • Safe Environment Discounts for Siblings • Free Bus Service Operating Since 1974

718.351.4442 FEBRUARY 2014

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L

t Social! e G s ’ t e S.I. PARENT asked:

What's on your "Bucket List?"

Is there some adventure or experience you are yearning to accomplish?

COMMENTS:

Pamela Renee: Driving cross country and seeing every single state!

Erica Walsh: Sleep?? Lol. My big thing is one day i want to go to the Kentucky Derby.

Ronni Ettinger: Every year I put together a bucket list and try to do 2-3 things on it. Whether it's somewhere I've always wanted to visit or something I've always wanted to do I really do try to cross some items off. Last year I swam with the dolphins and visited Hollywood, LA. This year I'm starting with Archery and will be taking a class with friends on Saturday!

r e t t a h C

Last month on Facebook we chatted about the snow storms, deer sightings on Staten Island, pet peeves, and so much more! Aside from all the Jeannie Chan: Hmmm... Now that I'm thinking I have a bunch! I want to go to a input you'll get from fellow Staten drive-in movie, go snorkeling and go to the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade!!

Islanders, it's where we post updates on what's going on, as well as Noelle Briney Roman: MEET JON BONJOVI, Swim with dolphins, some funny cartoons – because we all I live in Staten Island NY & want to experience New Years need a laugh from time to time. Join us.

Eve in Times Square.

We'd like to hear what you think!

Like us on Facebook.com/siparent to see more on these and other topics.

Join us & over 6,600 of our closest friends to discuss today's issues.

It's fun!

S.I. PARENT asked:

Now that you're a mom, what's your definition of a fun day, with kids or without?

COMMENTS:

Mandi Biello-Dionisio: Sending one to day care, one to school, taking off work to get things I need to get done - fun fun fun!

Constance Iannacone Samways: I loooove my quiet days at home with my boys the best.

Nowhere to go, catch up on house stuff, them vegging.

Lori Del Percio: A fun day is with kids, in a clean house, baking together, watching movies and eating junk food! Them not bickering would make it extra fun lol!

Jennifer Fuller Geoghegan: I love my wine stay-cations when my husband takes the kids for a day/night at Granny and Pop Pop's!

Qundeel Sajjad: I don't have any definition without my kids.

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Hidden Cake For a chance to win an 8-inch

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GAMES • LAMPS • MOBILES • PUZZLES • SWINGS • BOUNCERS • DRESSERS • WALL HANGINGS • GATES

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Imagine a place where you can get paid for cleaning out your closets! That place is Once Upon A Child. We buy and sell new and gently used children’s clothing, accessories, toys, furniture and equipment. And we pay you immediately for all items accepted. Go through those closets and bring us your kids’ stuff today.

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DECOR ITEMS • BEDDING SETS • BLANKETS • HIGH CHAIRS • ACCESSORIES

Think You Won One Our Contests?

Go to siparent.com and click on the Contests and Clubs tab to find out!

BRAND NAME APPAREL • TOYS • CRIBS • STROLLERS • BOOKS • SHEETS

find the cake (pictured above) in this issue. Then log on to www.siparent.com, click on the “Contests & Clubs” Tab to fill out the entry form. One winner is chosen each month.

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Specialized Care for YOUR Child

Phyllis G. Merlino, DDS

GIGI’S WORLD

by Giavanna and Gina Schrecker

Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry • Infants • Children • Adolescents • Special Needs • Sedation Dentistry

268 Todt Hill Road Corner of Westwood Ave Near Slosson Avenue

718.761.2090 www.DrMerlino.com

February is Children’s Dental Health Month

Call y Toda

Child Friendly, State-of-the-Art, Modern Office

Hi! My name’s Giavanna, but everyone calls me Gigi.

There’s so much going on in my life that I want to share with you. That’s why, with the help of my mom Gina LaGuardia-Schrecker, VP of Content Development and Social Media for The CollegeBound Network, I am writing a monthly kid’s-eye view of what it is like in my world.

A Heart-Healthy February At first I told mom I wanted her to write about my love of baking with chocolate for the month of February, since it’s the month of love and chocolate. But we didn’t think we’d have enough for a whole column, so we started brainstorming about people I love and things I love to do, but we’ve written about those a gazillion times. That’s when mom started thinking about the concept of “hearts” and we thought of the weekly gym sessions my sister and I do with my dad. That’s right, we stay “heart healthy” by getting our butts into the gym twice a week to exercise with a personal trainer.

About two years ago, my dad signed us up for a kids’ group fitness class at Dolphin Gym in Oakwood, and we loved it. Each week, we’d join other kids of all ages to get our heart rates up, play gym games, and laugh while spending some time being super active, which made our parents happy. When the class ended, we enjoyed one of our instructors so much that dad worked with him to put together some training sessions for my sister and I. So now, twice a week, we accompany dad to the gym and get our own two-on-one time with Vincenzo, our trainer, who is really funny and cool. Vinny, as we call him, keeps us motivated through a bunch of exercise circuits thanks to the handy-dandy stopwatch that he uses to count everything down for us.

While dad is running on the treadmill or lifting weights, we’re spending our hourly sessions with Vinny personalized attention to

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improve our fitness level and boost our strength. We do circuit training that includes suicides, which is usually a set-up of five cones that we run back and forth from. We also jump up and down on a box; do squats and snowboarders (side lunges) on the Bosu ball; and maneuver in and out of little hoops like we’re training for the army. There’s also leaps and jumps over hurdles, stretching, and those running-out-of-breath series of jumping jacks, bear claws, crab walks, butt kicks, and high knees, all of which get our hearts totally pumping.

And it doesn’t end there. We jog or run around the exterior of the room (usually it’s running), and to make it fun, we play a lot games – red light-green light, soccer, or bouncing the medicine ball. We’ve even participated in some friendly month-long competitions where my sister and I compete for points based on our activities and accomplishments, and Daddy dangles Modell’s gift cards as prizes – $20 for the winner and $10 for the runner-up.

I’m pretty sure we’re Vinny’s youngest clients; most of the kids our age are in the childcare room while their parents work out, but Daddy wanted us to learn to enjoy exercise at an early age, so he inquired about kidsspecific training.

I’m not going to lie … I don’t always feel like going and I sometimes want to just lay on the floor in the middle of our sessions, but I always try my best. That’s all Dad and Vinny ask for.

According to mom, though the gym may seem like it’s all about the actual exercises we’re doing, really it’s about dedication and learning that though we sometimes have to do things that are hard, they’re worth it in the long run.

Though I may not fully understand the value of this extra curricular activity at the present time beyond it usually being a fun time (even when it’s tough), I think I'll work out for the rest of my life … as long as I can fit it into my schedule in between baking, of course!

Staten Islanders Giavanna & Gina Schrecker invite you to write to them at editorial@siparent.com or post to www.facebook.com/siparent

SPECIALS

Communions • Confirmations Sweet 16's Specializing in Balloons, Centerpieces, Tulle & Lights, Candelabras, Invitations, Arches, Sign In Boards, Draping, Life Size Figures, Candy Displays & More WINTER BREAK ART February 17th - 20th.

All Day Camp 10am - 3pm. $85- per day ages 5 to13. Call for details.

255 Nelson Ave (Great Kills) • 718.227.7600 Denise Cartelli-Arena, Art Director & Licensed Art Teacher

COMPLETE ART C ENTER

FOR ALL YOUR

ARTISTIC N EEDS

WWW.SIWIZARD.COM

FEBRUARY 2014

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FEBRUARY IS: American Heart Month

FAMILY CALENDAR

National Black History Month National Children’s Dental Health Month Library Lovers’ Month

IMPORTANT DATES:

THE LIBRARY IS A GREAT PLACE TO TAKE THE KIDS. For local Library Hours and Locations, visit www.siparent.com/library_hours.php

MORE FUN FAMILY EVENTS ONLINE! Visit www.siparent.com’s home page and click on the “More Events” button under the calendar icon.

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Groundhog Day - Feb 2 Super Bowl XLVIII - Feb 2 Valentine’s Day - Feb 14 Presidents’ Day - Feb 17 Midwinter Recess - Feb 17-21

Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free PLEASE NOTE: Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. We strongly suggest calling to confirm times, prices, ages, etc. before you attend.

Knitting Hour South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1

The Night Sky Wolfe's Pond Park 718-390-8000 6:00pm • Free

Birding with Friends of Blue Heron Great Kills Park 718-987-6729 9:00am • Free Memoir Writing Workshop St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00am • Free Ecosystems – In the Wild & In the Backyard Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 11:00am • Free Kids & Kritters – Woodchucks Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 11:00am • Free

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2 Forest Garden Friends Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 12:00pm • Free

Emergency Preparedness: Extreme Weather Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free Groundhogs in the Greenbelt Hike High Rock Park 718-667-2165 1:00pm • Free

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3

Jewelry Making West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4:00pm • Free Read Aloud Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 4:00pm • Free Picture Book Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:30pm • Free Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 5:00pm • Free

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4 Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:00am • Free

La Leche League Daytime Meeting Christ Church of New Brightton 10:30am • Free Crochet and Knit Club Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00am • Free

Computer Class Basics Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free

Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 11:30am • Free

Krafty Kids – Valentine Craft Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free

All Join In! Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:00am • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free

Saturday Showtime Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 2:00pm • Free

VITA Income Tax Preparation Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 12:00pm • Free

Children’s Game Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 3:00pm • Free

Family Movies – Ice Age: Continental Drift New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free

Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free

Preschool Program New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free

Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free Friendship Bracelets Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free Loom Jewelry Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free NYPL Resources Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4:00pm • Free

THE NIGHT SKY Saturday, February 1 Wolfe's Pond Park All ages Free 718-390-8000 www.nycgovparks.org

Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4:00pm • Free

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6

BabyTime South Beach Library 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free

Toddler Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free

Teen Club New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00am • Free

Movies for Teens Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free

Google Series: Getting More Out of Google Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00 am • Free

Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4:00pm • Free

VITA Income Tax Preparation Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00 am • Free

Kiddie Storytime

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free

Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00pm • Free Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4:00pm • Free

Urban Park Rangers will be your guides to the solar system, discussing the science, history and folklore of the universe.

Picture Book Time/Reading Aloud New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00pm • Free

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Bookcraft Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 4:00pm • Free

Tween Activities St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free

Learn to Knit Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 3:00pm • Free Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free Reading Aloud and Coloring Craft Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free

FEBRUARY 2014

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Homework Help St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free Family Movie Night Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 6:00pm • Free

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Toddler Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 10:30am • Free

Toddler Time Port Richmond Library

718-442-0158 10:30am • Free

718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free

Toddler Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30am • Free

Wii Gaming South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free

Preschool Story and Craft Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free

Reading Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Free

Toddler Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Free

Children’s Video Gaming West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4:00pm • Free

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: EXTREME WEATHER

Toddler Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 11:00am • Free

Sunday, February 2

Coffee and Books Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 11:00am • Free

Blue Heron Nature Center 1pm Ages 8+ Free 718-967-3542

Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free

preserve2.org/blueheron

Emergency Preparedness provides families and individuals with helpful information on how to be ready when an emergency situation arises. Dress appropriately for cold weather.

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Doodlebug FunTime – Series 1 Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00am • Free

La Leche League Weekend Meeting Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 11:00 am • Free Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free Young Adult Afternoon Movie Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 2:00pm • Free Family Movies – Escape from Planet Earth New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free

FEBRUARY 2014

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Crafternoon Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 2:00pm • Free Nature Illustration Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 2:30pm • Free Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:00pm • Free Knitting Hour South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free

GROUNDHOGS IN THE GREENBELT HIKE Sunday, February 2 High Rock Park 1pm Ages 7+ Free 718-351-3450 www.sigreenbelt.org

4th Annual Valentine’s Day Fundraiser DaNoi Restaurant 718-720-1650 7:00pm • $75 Owl Prowl Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 7:00pm • Free

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Storytelling Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free

Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free Lunar New Year Celebration 2014 Snug Harbor Cultural Center 718-448-2500 2:00pm • $10 Natural Science Club – What’s in a Rock?

Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 2:00pm • Free

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10 You won’t see Chuck, but you will hike through High Rock Park in search of groundhogs and other rodent relatives and magnificent mammals that live in the Greenbelt.

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Baby and Me Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11:00am • Free All Join In! Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:00am • Free

VITA Income Tax Preparation Dongan Hills Library

718-351-1444 12:00pm • Free Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free Rainbow Loom Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 3:00pm • Free Film Program West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free Collage Notebook Craft Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free Valentine Craft for Kids Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4:00pm • Free Read Aloud Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 4:00pm • Free Picture Book Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:30pm • Free Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 5:00pm • Free

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Avail

s & a du lt s e g a l l a f o n childre Cl as s e s for C O M P E T IT IV E & RECREATIONAL CLASSES IN Ballet, Lyrical, Tap, Jaz z, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Ac ro, Cheer Funk, Leaps, Jumps, Turns & O pen Stretch Ha v e y o u r

A m a n d a D a l l i , M a n ag i n g D i r e c t o r Ba chelor of A rts in Da nc e From H unter Colleg e

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BIRTHDAY PARTIES

a t C e n te r S t a g e .

C a l l o r e m a il fo r i n fo r m a ti o n .

FEBRUARY 2014

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:00am • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free

Crochet and Knit Club Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00am • Free

Yoga for the Young at Heart Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 3:00pm • Free

Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 11:30am • Free Preschool Story Time Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 1:00pm • Free

OWL PROWL

Saturday, February 8

Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free Teen/Tween Sewing Workshop Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4:00pm • Free Foreclosure Prevention Orientation NHS of Staten Island Inc. 718-442-8080 6:30pm • Free

Blue Heron Nature Center 7pm All ages Free 718-967-3542

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12

www.preserve2.org /blueheron

Each prowl will venture to a different section of the park in search of resident owls.

Downloading e-Books on Kindle Fire Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 12:30pm • Free Teen Club New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free

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718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free

Video Games Dongan Hills Library

Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4:00pm • Free Kiddie Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00pm • Free Cut & Craft Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4:00pm • Free Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4:00pm • Free Picture Book Time/Reading Aloud New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00pm • Free Tween Activities St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free Bookcraft Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 4:00pm • Free

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 Preschool Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00am • Free

FEBRUARY 2014

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11:00am • Free Google Series: Google Drive/Docs Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00am • Free VITA Income Tax Preparation Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00am • Free Book Babies!

Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:00am • Free

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION 2014 Sunday, February 9

Computer Help South Beach Library 718-816-5834 12:00pm • Free Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free Movie Matinee Movie and Snacks Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 3:00pm • Free Learn to Knit Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 3:00pm • Free

Celebrate the Year of the Horse with colorful costumed Chinese folk dances, classical and Hip-Hop style Lion Dancing, and hands-on Chinese Arts & Crafts, all presented and shared with you.

Reading Aloud and Coloring Craft Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free Silly Science West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4:00pm • Free Valentine’s Day Craft New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00pm • Free Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free

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Open Lab – 1 on 1 Computer Help Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 5:30pm • Free

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 Toddler Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 10:30am • Free

Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free Toddler Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Free

Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free

Snug Harbor Cultural Center 2-4pm All ages $10 718-448-2500 www.snug-harbor.org

718-816-5834 4:30pm • Free

Movies South Beach Library

Preschool Storytime South Beach Library 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free Preschool Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11:00am • Free Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free Teen Advisory Group New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free Tween Cyber Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 3:00pm • Free

FEBRUARY 2014

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free Valentine’s Day Craft Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free Wii Gaming South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free

Family Movies – Pete’s Dragon New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free

Reading Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Free

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15 Birding with Friends of Blue Heron Mount Loretto State Park 718-482-4942 9:00am • Free Cold Feat 10K Trail Run La Tourette Golf Course & Greenbelt Trail System 718-351-1889 10:00am • $25/30

COLD FEAT 10K TRAIL RUN

Memoir Writing Workshop St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free

Saturday, February 15

Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00am • Free

La Tourette Golf Course & Greenbelt Trail System 10am All ages $25/30 718-351-3450 www.sigreenbelt.org

Registration for the race is required.

This race will be professionally timed, culminating in an awards ceremony. Refreshments and race appropriate apparel are provided for runners.

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Scavenger Hunt Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 11:00am • Free Forest Restoration Workshop High Rock Park 718-667-2165 11:00am • Free Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free Saturday Showtime Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 2:00pm • Free

Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free Knitting Hour South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16 Winter Bird Hike with Mike Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 10:30am • Free Exploring Our Climate Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free Sea Shanty Sessions Noble Maritime Collection 718-447-6490 2:00pm • Free

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Kids Week Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:00am • Free

FEBRUARY 2014

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Preschool Fun Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00am • Free Crochet and Knit Club Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00am • Free Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 11:30am • Free Kids Week Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free

SCAVENGER HUNT Saturday, February 15

718-727-0427 2:00pm • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free Children’s Game Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 3:00pm • Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free Teen/Tween Craft: Mardi Gras Masks Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free Friendship Bracelets Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free

Blue Heron Nature Center 11am All ages Free 718-967-3542 preserve2.org/blueheron

Loom Jewelry Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free

Search for nature clues to complete a scavenger hunt. All supplies are provided.

Read Aloud South Beach Library

NYPL Resources Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4:00pm • Free

718-816-5834 4:00pm • Free

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Kids Week Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free

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Bookcraft Stapleton Library

Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4:00pm • Free Kiddie Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00pm • Free Read Aloud West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4:00pm • Free Picture Book Time/Reading Aloud New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00pm • Free Tween Activities St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20 Toddler Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00am • Free Toddler Time West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 11:00am • Free MS Word 2010 for Beginners Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00am • Free

• Baby Buzz 4-12 months • Tot-Time Together 12 - 28 months • 2 Year Old Toddler Program • 3 & 4 year Old Classes Half & Full Day Programs • State-of-the-Art Outdoor Playground • Large Indoor Gym • Certified Staff

CELEBRATING 28 YEARS! Curriculum reflects the changing needs for today's child including • Early Literacy • Critical Thinking Skills • Handwriting Program • Music Enrichment Including SMART Board Educational Technology

all through an integrated curriculum

• Reasonable Rates

OPEN REGISTRATION Begins Saturday, February 1st • 9am-11am

1657 Victory Blvd • 718-442-5350 • www.castletonhillpreschool.com

FEBRUARY 2014

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

VITA Income Tax Preparation Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00am • Free

Learn to Knit Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 3:00pm • Free

Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Free

Kids Week Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free

Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free

Baby Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 11:00am • Free

Winter Hike: Signs of Life High Rock Park 718-667-2165 1:30pm • Free

Reading Aloud and Coloring Craft Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free

Sensory Activity Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 11:00am • Free

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free

SEA SHANTY SESSIONS Sunday, February 16

Teen Tech Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free Adult Craft South Beach Library 718-816-5834 5:30pm • Free

Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free

Family Movie Night Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 6:00pm • Free

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21

Noble Maritime Collection 2-5pm All ages Free 718-447-6490 noblemaritime.org

Musicians, singers, and the listening public are cordially invited to participate in a continuing tradition of songs, stories, random history, and lore of ports and places, near and far.

Kids Week Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free

Toddler Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 10:30am • Free Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free Baby Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30am • Free Preschool Story and Craft Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free

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Toddler Time

Kitchen Herbs for Health and Flavor Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free Wii Gaming South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free Reading Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Free Puzzle and Coloring Hour West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 4:00pm • Free

Party Like an Animal At...

Open Play Time

PEDIATRIC MULTI-DISCIPLINARY DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION SITE SEIT PROGRAM & TREATMENT CENTER • SEIT Services • CPSE Evaluations • Private Evaluations • Private Therapy– All Ages Welcome

is BACK!!!

Tuesday & Wednesday 12:00-3:00pm Friday 10:00am-1:00pm. $6 per child, no charge for the adults.

GIRAFFE ROOM Weekday packages start @ just $249

MONKEY ROOM Weekday packages start @ just $299

BIRTHDAY CHILD FREE! 15 Children and 15 Adults

SE PLEA UR O T I VIS OR ITE F WEBS PLETE COM AGES PACK

.ThePartyJun gle www .c o

m

– Speech – Occupational Therapy – Physical Therapy – Vision Therapy – Counseling – Signing to Enhance Vocabulary

WE ARE HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE Please call to set up your appointment

718-984-5826 •Email: Therapy905@aol.com www.wordsnmotion.com 905 Annadale Rd (Annadale Town) • Programs are for children who have or are suspected of having a disability • Special education services are at no cost to parent • Services and their location are determined by the CPSE (local school district)

B BOYS OYS & G GIRLS IRLS 2 2-ADULT -ADULT COMPETITIVE C OMPETITIVE & NON COMPETITIVE ETITIVE C CLASSES LASSES COME JOIN THE

EV O L U T I O N DANC E COMFAMILY PANY !

Offering Classes for Children ldren with witth h Special Special Needs eds A ABA BA C CERTIFIED ERTI T FIED Tap ✰ Ballet ✰ Jazz JJa azz ✰ Lyrical Lyyrrical ✰ Contemporary ✰ Pointe Po P ointe ✰ Modern/Contemporary Hip Hop Hop ✰ S alsa ✰ A crro o ✰ ZZUM UMBA Hip Salsa Acro ZUMBA

Mid Mi M id y yea year ea ar r

FREE F RE EE ER REGISTRATION EG E GI G IST TR RATION & HALF HALF O OF FF OFF 1 m month's on nt th's tuition... tu t uition... not join!!! n ot o tt too oo llate at te et to o jjo oi n n!! !!! st s t

917.579.8575 9 17.579.8575 16 16 B Barrett arrettt A Ave ve ((off off of of Forest Forest Ave) Ave) FEBRUARY 2014

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22 Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free

Birding with Friends of Blue Heron Clove Lakes Park 212-639-9675 9:00am • Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00am • Free

KIDS WEEK

Monday, February 17Friday, February 21

Birding: Winter Birds Clove Lakes Park 212-639-9675 11:00am • Free Kids & Kritters – Winter Hike and Tracking Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 11:00am • Free Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free Krafty Kids – Potato Print Craft Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free Young Adult Afternoon Movie Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 2:00pm • Free Foodie Fun West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 2:00pm • Free

Blue Heron Nature Center 1pm All ages Free 718-967-3542 preserve2.org/blueheron

School is out! Take the kids to the park to enjoy a variety of nature programs. Get outside and get excited.

1:00pm • Free

Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:00pm • Free Knitting Hour South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free Owl Prowl Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 7:00pm • Free

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23

90

FEBRUARY 2014

www.siparent.com

Nature Exploration Hike (moderate) High Rock Park 718-667-2165

Tours of the Conference House The Conference House 718-984-6046 1:00pm • Free Sounds of Silence Hike High Rock Park 718-667-2165 1:00pm • Free SIOutLOUD presents Twelve Years a Slave Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 2:00pm • Free Explorers of the Wild – Muscles and Bone: The Biology of Movement Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 2:00pm • Free

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Baby and Me Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11:00am • Free All Join In! Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:00am • Free VITA Income Tax Preparation Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 12:00pm • Free Teen Cafe Remixed New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free Rainbow Loom Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 3:00pm • Free Film Program West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free

FEBRUARY 2014

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91

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Family Movie Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free Read Aloud Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 4:00pm • Free Picture Book Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:30pm • Free

FAMILY OF FRIENDS

Are you a member of our Family of Friends list? If not, you’re missing out.

Our Family of Friends members get first dibs on exclusive giveaways, family-friendly events, fun recipes, and so much more! To sign up, go to siparent.com and click the link on the top right of the page.

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 5:00pm • Free

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:00am • Free

Crochet and Knit Club Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00am • Free Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 11:30am • Free Preschool Story Time Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 1:00pm • Free Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free Yoga for the Young at Heart Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 3:00pm • Free Math & Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free NYPL Resources Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 4:00pm • Free Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4:00pm • Free

92

FEBRUARY 2014

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Foreclosure Prevention Orientation NHS of Staten Island Inc.

718-442-8080 6:30pm • Free

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Teen Club New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00pm • Free

Video Games Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free Family Story Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4:00pm • Free Kiddie Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00pm • Free Cut & Craft Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4:00pm • Free Picture Book Time/Reading Aloud New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00pm • Free Tween Activities St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00pm • Free Bookcraft Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 4:00pm • Free Pajama Story Time West New Brighton Library 718-442-1416 7:00pm • Free

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Preschool Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00am • Free

Teen Tech Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free

Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free

Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11:00am • Free

Movies South Beach Library

Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:30pm • Free

Advanced MS Word 2010 Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00am • Free VITA Income Tax Preparation Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 11:00am • Free Book Babies!

Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:00am • Free Computer Help South Beach Library 718-816-5834 12:00pm • Free Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30pm • Free Learn to Knit Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 3:00pm • Free Teen Lounge Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free Reading Aloud and Coloring Craft Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 3:30pm • Free

718-816-5834 4:30pm • Free Family Film Night Movies and Snacks Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 5:00pm • Free Open Lab – 1 on 1 Computer Help Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 5:30pm • Free

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Toddler Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 10:30am • Free

Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30am • Free Toddler Time Dongan Hills Library 718-351-1444 10:30am • Free Preschool Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11:00am • Free Doodlebug FunTime – Series 2 Blue Heron Nature Center 718-967-3542 1:00pm • Free Tween Cyber Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 3:00pm • Free

Wii Gaming South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free Reading Aloud Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30pm • Free

BIRDING: WINTER BIRDS

Saturday, February 22 Clove Lakes Park 11am All ages Free 718-967-3542 preserve2.org/blueheron

Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in New York City; this time view birds in Martling Pond.

To enhance your experience, you are encouraged to bring binoculars and field guides, or ask a Ranger to borrow a pair.

FEBRUARY 2014

www.siparent.com

93

BIRTHDAY CLUB

Join S.I. Parent Magazine’s BIRTHDAY CLUB! Log on to www.siparent.com and click on the “Contests & Clubs” Tab

February

FEBRUARY 1 Shaun Christian Sanders Viviane T. Mejia Sylvia Franze Amara Agu Isabella La Greca Jake Maiello Stephanie Brandi Foye Jimmy wepyTyler Hummler Bella Weinerman Victoria Lamberti Carmen Spurrell Alexandra Mauro Riley Corson Robert Ralph Russo Rebecca Stengle-Wilson FEBRUARY 2 Liana Mannino Andrianna B. Castillo Alexa Marie Avallone Eric Puletti Jr. Gregory Perriri Anthony Guirguis Naim Ibroci II Nevin Ibroci Angel Espada Joanne Mary Darretta James Phelan Gianna Phelan Angeliah Negron FEBRUARY 3 Justin Thompson Melina Ortiz Brianna L. Quinones Brandon M. Quinones Dennis J. DeLuca Jr. Vanessa Palmer Sergio Rigau Jr. Tiffany Bonello Andrew Zuppardi Heavenlia Janvier Justin Levine Juan Carlos Robles-Corona George Elkik Giavanna Anwar Corey Newell-Hopkins FEBRUARY 4 Crystina Hynes Gabrielle Cestone Joseph R. Thompson Jr. Amanda Guarino Silvia Sereno Hiba Ahmed Blake Benevento Samantha Smith Alyssa Bavaro FEBRUARY 5 Sha-anne Goddard Kayla Dawson Andrew N. Gargiulo Camilla Abdalmegeed Fatima J. Gonzalez Olivia Frances DePeppo Lori Caban Mariham Tharwat

Leilani Jenkins Jason Anzalone Matthew Tzur FEBRUARY 6 Julia Widmayer Catherine Mignano Bashkim Ardolic Chioma Agu Nicole Buccellato Kevin Schoenau Nicholas Dropp Elizabeth Maira FEBRUARY 7 Sharon Jorge Patrick James Calvo Dominick Maruffi Noah Samuel Liebman J.D. Overton Xavier Gonzalez Stefania R. Santoro Gabrielle Darretta FEBRUARY 8 Stephanie Craven Fernando Rigau Jr. Julie Higgins Robert Butler Ashley Lambert Gianna Clarke Gabrielle Morri Kyle Taylor FEBRUARY 9 Gregory Neal Orlando Molina Jr. Joseph Fornito Samantha Pugliese Devin Bernard Bester Jessica Vasquez Anthony Di Leo, Jr. Ryan Rocchio Dennis Mitchell Giada Gagliardotto Susan Borazzo FEBRUARY 10 Mario Anthony Coca William Torres Naijuwan Dawson Kyanda Lewis D.J. McKay Maliyah A. Greene Kerri McCarthy Kristen Ann McGill Jason Young Gia Reyes Roshan Mathew Alexandra Nat Bajek Kristinia Lamberti Nicholas Barbieri Lily Olsen Ryan Milone Rivka Steinherz Michael O’Leary Juliana Rae Melisi

FEBRUARY 11 Bianca Kneski Caitlyn Rowan Gianna Taylor Clark Brittani Taylor Agosta Venus Collins John Castelucci John Rutherford Katie Schoenau Gianna Borriello Ayana Angell Aiden Ciero Liam Morales Aza Villodas FEBRUARY 12 Megan Keenan Joseph Caballero Anthony Saldana Jessica Saldana Nicholas Murphy Steven Cintron Jr. Jared Moller Alexis Compton Lauren Ormond Salvatore Polemeni Joseph Sciarrone Hunter Pesin Lisa Lamberti Ryan Rocchio Kassandra Mojica FEBRUARY 13 Giavanna Esposito Ashley Meyers Taylor Nicole Bove Omar Hegazy Olivia Becker Julianna Milillo Joel Rivera Rebecca Holzer Alishah Warraich Sophia Deserto Brianna Sampson FEBRUARY 14 Emily Earle Matthew Caban Daniel J. Londono Mariesa Cay Antonio Bella Linda Newman Elliot Taylor Ryan Angelica Reyes Maxwell Roach Salvatore Isolda Sophia Esposito FEBRUARY 15 Felicia Ann Sboto Robert Sacaccio Marina Guirguis Shannon Denise Massey Joseph Di Leo Joseph Anthony Guarnieri Michael Joyce Chris Best Brianna Osorio Alyssa Cianfrone

FEBRUARY 16 Ricky Cariddi James Anthony Modica Joseph Paul Ursini Mabel Wei Ming Chadwick Sophia Rose Jernigan Melanie Akilova Amber Rose McBryer Alexander Olinsky John Doyle Tyler David Antoinette Lamberti Anthony Sercia Joseph McDonough Alexandra Nonnenmacher FEBRUARY 17 Denzel M. Green Alyssa Lynn Sperrazza Valerie Colon Anthony Guidotti Michael Joyce Kaitlin Jennifer Arroyo Joseph A. Temperino Jr. Samantha Taylor Slovitz Michelle Piazza Joseph DePalo Alyssa Sperrazza FEBRUARY 18 Brian Lemberg Tanya Lemberg Dante Acquatico Darnell Louden Sabrina Bodden Lucas S. MacDonald Santo Agosta Jr Stephanie De Molfetto Kate Hagen Kendall Savino Adrian Rzonca Gia Koppie Christina Losinno Christian Wikande Jenna Hershkowitz FEBRUARY 19 Marc Grossman Lauren Zaremba Chelsea Pisarri Mathew Abramowitz Michael Delaney Gabriel Todd Lanette Batts Anaya Fieros Joseph Vann Jordan Clanton Emily Retino Jade Yu Joseph Gottlieb Juan Diego Cordova Tyrese Tucker FEBRUARY 20 Jennifer Marie Karlovits Anthony J. Scavuzzo Radwa Ahmed Liana Ortiz

Grace Angelica Rignola Jalen K.M. Payne Jakub Rodriguez John Chernack Nadia Chernack Francesca Saccomagno David Kurbalidze Joe Lamberti Paulie Battipaglia David Ginsburg FEBRUARY 21 Jessica Mallozzi Matthew Vuotto Chris Corrado Nicholas J. Aspromonte Justin Joseph Sterlacci Andrew Snyder Lauren Marino David Kholodovsky Christena Armento Victoria Lopez Tyler Wise FEBRUARY 22 Katherine Pasquarelli Rashalae Stalworth Victoria L DiGianni Samantha Schlemovitz Dominique Scherma Rebecca Marie Panarello Neyla Ibroci George Lambert, Jr. Grace Paulina Tabora Nicholas Medordi Connor Kealy Sienna Gallego-Montantine FEBRUARY 23 Charles Kramer Alex Nunez Alyson Taylor Wallin Diana Sarola Kristi Salvatore Tiffany Marie Alberino Ian Sacknoff Kali Young Sarah Westin Christopher Slinger Constandina Haralambidis Sanuli Dharmawardena Samantha Sicari Sabrina Mogollon Jenna Labarbera Michael Vergo Olivia Medordi FEBRUARY 24 Daniel Rammairone Desiree C. Hernandez Samantha Schiavo Justin Peter Blank Christian Spears Brittany Ariel Sheridan Nader F. Tallat Michael Charles Biscotti Alexis Rivera Daniel Agarunov Jose Carlos Aguilar Jr.

Antonio M. Antonaros Matthew Marino Christopher Zandler Vincent Villani Sean Keag Hunter McCarthy Anthony Del Re FEBRUARY 25 Amanda Marie Giglio Joseph Mannino Justin Thiel Nicolas Fichtl Anthony R. Cassieri Lawrence Frank Joseph Pellegrino Daniel Guariglia Daniel Dewakumara Giselle Rau FEBRUARY 26 Merissa Scarabino Donald McAlpin IV Paige Victoria Sofia Michael Kelly Kyle Ryan Guzman Antonio Facciolli Comfort Majekodunmi Emily Becker Zachary Bellantoni John Marsh, Jr. Francesca Delapi Nicholas Garcia Jessica Paoli Ava Valenti Meaghan Viviani FEBRUARY 27 Michael Pecorino Kiara Nelson Elizabeth DiLiberto Antonio T. Frierson Michael Notaroberta Myah Simms Jaysen Sullivan Nina Russo Jordan Hafiz Thomas Mantellino Dominique Litrell Lauren Minks FEBRUARY 28 Thomas John Gonzalez Shannen Richards Joseph Lipari James Lipari Nicholas Casuccio Victoria Rymer Jordan Roman Jordana Roman Andrew Trapani Cristina Mogollon Diandre Green Ayden Villodas FEBRUARY 29 Joseph A. Toto Daniel Korenski

Birthday Club members are entitled to receive

10 FREE TOKENS AT FUNSTATION Funstation is located on 3555 Victory Boulevard • 718.370.0077 Good only for birthday club members on this list. Not to be combined with any other offers. Offer valid on child’s birthday only.

ADVERTISER INDEX Adelphi Academy ..............................51

Games on Wheels ..............................31

RockStar Party ......................................36

Advantage Medical ..........................44

Gingerbread Leaning Center ........103

Roller Jam..............................................18

American Karate ................................35

Hampton Inn & Suites..........................75

Ruby Falls ..............................................46

Athletic Edge ..........................................5

Hugs & Kiddies......................................44

S I Academy ........................................47

Bario's Catering....................................42

Huntington Learning Center..............69

S I Braces................................................21

Big Bird's Playhouse ......................57, 59

Inspirations in Dance ..........................30

S I Day Camp ........................................8

Bricks4 Kidz ............................................30

JCC Day Camp ..................................77

S I Pediatric Dentist ..............................53

Brienza Academic Advantage ........85

JCC First Foot Fwd................................81

Seido Karate ........................................59

Building Blocks Montessori ................33

JCC Reality Check ..............................66

Shades of Color ..................................28

Carnival Kids ........................................13

Kahn Dermatology ............................24

Showplace Entertainment ................15

Casa Belvediere ................................102

Kids Dental ............................................10

SI Children's Museum..........................34

Castleton Hill Moravian ......................87

Kidz n Shape ........................................27

SI Comm Charter School ..................85

Center Stage Dance ..........................79

Kumon of Silver Lake ..........................66

SI Mental Health ............................38, 57

Children at Play....................................87

La Tea Da ..............................................31

SI United Soccer Academy................79

Children's Harbor Montessori............70

Marina CafĂŠ ........................................42

Silhoutte Dance....................................33

Circle Urgent Care ..............................22

Master Curry Karate..............................7

Small World Dental ..............................39

Created by You....................................63

Mathnasium..........................................25

Small World Preschool ........................57

CSI Center for the Arts ........................46

Mini World Preschool ..........................62

South Shore Toddler Academy ........63

Curves ....................................................33

New Dorp Christian Academy ........67

St. George Theatre..............Back Cover

DEA Music..............................................12

New Dorp Moravian Church ............34

St. Joseph Hill Academy ....................34

Dr. Michael D'Anna..............................37

Notre Dame Academy ......................14

St. Paul's School of Nursing ................81

Dr. Michael DiSimone..........................62

Once Upon A Child ............................69

Sunny Days Consulting ......................44

Dr. Michelle Giumenta........................52

Our Lady Star of the Sea ....................33

The Sunnyside school of Music ........49

Dr. Phyllis Merlino..................................70

Paramount Oral Surgery ....................25

The Village Preschool..........................35

Dynamic Dental ..................................48

Parent to Parent....................................66

Total Dental ..........................................83

E. J. Michaels ........................................28

Party Jam Party Centers ....................29

Victory Gymnastics ............................49

Eden ll ....................................................23

Party Jungle ..........................................89

Volunteers of America ........................83

Eltingville Lutheran School ................57

Pinott's Palette ......................................24

Wagner College Summer Prog ........71

Evolution Dance ..................................89

Pole Position Raceway ......................49

Wizard of Art ..........................................71

Fairy Lice Mothers................................30

Rab's County Lanes ............................19

Words n Motion ....................................89

Fast Break Basketball ..........................58

Richmond County Day Camp ........11

YMCA........................................................6

Fastrackids ............................................43

Richmond County Savings Bank ......2

Young People's Day Camp ................9

Fidelis Care............................................61

Richmond Hill Children's Center ......52

Fun Station ......................................16, 17

Richmond University Medical Ctr ....91

FAMILY NEEDS Party Services DJs, MCs, Vocalists, Dancers, Videographers, Photographers, Pro Light Shows, Intelligent Lights, Photo Booth, Live Animal Shows, Candy Carts, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Plasma TVs, Rides, Magicians, Clowns, Limousines, Karaoke, Costume Characters, Casino Night Tables, Fully Insured

YOUR ONE STOP DJ & ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY

partywithf2k.com 718.554.4780

Your Audience Will Laugh & Have a Great Time at a Fun Filled Show With Magic, Comedy, Balloons & Audience Participation Face Painting | Costume Characters Available

Call Today 917.754.5755

Party With Us Now!

• Disc Jockeys • Video Taping • Karaoke • M/F Dancers • Party Servers • Dancing Gorillas • Caricaturist • Magicians • Singing Telegrams • Celebrity Look-a-Likes

• Costume Characters • Clowns • Puppet Show • Petting Zoo • Theme Parties • Double Dare Mini Circus • Dress Up Tea Parties • Carnival Games • Cotton Candy

Full Time DJ Service

375

4 hour basic party

718-370-3962 • partypeoplepromo@gmail.com

www.partypeoplepromotions.com

CHARACTER-A-CISE

Call

Established 1985

MOUSE-A-CISE

718-984-5546

www.siparent.com

Party Smarty 718-556-9475 Entertainment Face Painting, Glitter Art Tattoos Sculpture Balloons, Temporary Tatoos, DJ’s, Entertainers, Karaoke, Rides, Spin Art, Sand Art, Candy Art, Arts & Crafts, Theme Parties, Stuff a Bear Parties, Candy Cart, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Snokones, Pretzels, Sundae Bar, Carnival Games, & More!

www.partysmartyentertainment.com

COSTUME CHARACTERS

718-984-5546 or 732-360-1616

WORK OUT WITH MR. OR MRS. MOUSE

• Jousts • Catapillar • Lazer Maze • Birthday Machine • Obstacle Course • Casino Parties • Photo Favors • Balloon Typhoons • Chair Rental • And More!

Affordable Party Packages

Excludes weddings, sweet 16’s, bar/bat mitzvah and communion parties.

With coupon. Staten Island only.

Not valid with other offers or prior purchases.

Boogie with your favorite costume character.

Children’s Party Craft Parties Entertainment for All Ages

• Stuffed Bears • Airbrushed Tattoos • Wax Hands • Candle Art • Rides • Moon Walks • Ball Crawl • Super Slide • Dunk Tank • Gyro • Train • Carousel

718.556.9475

From children’s parties to elegant affairs.

Serving Staten Island since 1994.

$

• Candy Carts • Ice-Cream Sundae Bar • Sno-Cone Machines • Hot Dog Wagon • Candy Sticks • Craft Parties • Sand Art • Spin Art, T-Shirts & Pictures

www.PartyTimeEntertainmentInc.com • 718.667.8998

Party People Promotions We love what we do and it shows.

FEBRUARY 2014

494.0709 drr927@aol.com www.littleshopstudios.com 864 Post Ave • SI, NY 10310

PARTY TIME ENTERTAINMENT

Carmini The Magician

96

YOU CHOOSE THE THEME. WE THROW THE PARTY!

Donna Ribertelli • 917

With any DJ booking, cannot be combined.

Childrens Party Entertainment Set to Music

At Little Shop Studios Specializing in children’s birthday parties, team parties and tween dance parties.

$100 OFF

le Re l i a b b le A f fo r d a e d nc E x p e r i e re d su Fu l l y I n

BIG SHOT PARTIES

Full Line of Costume & Cartoon Characters to Enhance Your Child’s Party DJ/Costume characters packages available for 1st birthdays & christenings

(Excluding Sweet Sixteens or Weddings)

Kids Dance Parties

c: 718-986-6510 • p: 718-698-2712

Call Sherry: 718-317-7439

FAMILY NEEDS Party Services

Gourmet chocolate novelties for all occasions Doreen@itsdelicious.biz

917-417-3481

www.itsdelicious.biz

Party on the Wild Side Live Animal Shows for Birthdays, Classrooms, and Summer Camps.

• Reptiles • Birds • Mammals 732-264-1879 • Bugs

www.partyonthewildside.com Featuring: Inflatable Rides • Popcorn • Cotton Candy Sand Art • Spin Art • Magicians • Caricaturists * WE SPECIALIZE IN PHOTO FAVORS *

BIRTHDAY PARTY

718

356-8723

ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGES AVAILABLE

www.BeeLineEntertainment.com Sweet 16’s • Birthday Parties • Christenings Communions • Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Confirmations Private Parties • Block Parties • Company Parties & More

KIDS CREATE JEWLERY PARTIES “THE THAT PARTY TO COMES O Y U!”

BIRTHDAY PARTIES BOYS WELCOME

PERFECT FOR GIRL SCOUT TROOPS

917.560.6550

10%

DIVA DOLL PARTYS SPA PARTIES FOR CHILDREN’S BIRTHDAYS & SPECIAL OCCASIONS

OFF

www.DivaDollPartys.com 718-290-3904

ANY

PACKAGES INCLUDE Manicures, pedicures, hair styling, make-up applications & more!

SERVICE WITH

Karaoke, games and crafts to entertain your guests for a truly fun and memorable event.

Invitations Included!

THIS AD

Extravaganza Entertainment Moon Bouncers Giant Slides Water Slides Obstacle Course Bungee Run Pedestal Joust

Party Host Clowns Magicians Puppet Shows Circus Performers Impersonators Make Your Own Bears Major Credit Cards Accepted

Cotton Candy Popcorn Sno Kones Pretzels Hot Dog Candy Cart Sundae Bar

Balloonists Face Painters Tattoo Art Sand Art Spin Art Candle Art Wax Hands

Photo Favors Fantasy Photos Carnival Games Casino Games Mini Golf Dunk Tank Radar Sports

Check Out Our Website: www.extravaganzaent.com FREE BROCHURE • 718-273-7137 FEBRUARY 2014

www.siparent.com

97

FAMILY NEEDS Classifieds CONFUSED ABOUT COLLEGE? at ACADEMIC WISDOM

we can help.

Call us for an appointment.

Consultation is FREE!

917-453-4448

Believe + Succeed LLC

Staten Island Family Music

Executive Function Deficits & Time Management Skills

The premier music enrichment program for babies, toddlers, 3, 4 & 5 year olds and their grown-ups!

3 convenient locations.

Morning, afternoon & weekend classes.

PAULINE SCANLON LEARNING COACH

www.SIFamilyMusic.com 718.207.1128 Mary Lee Aloia, Director

917.364.1644 • LDCSINY@gmail.com

Tutoring By Christine

“Help Bring Your Child’s Education to the Next Level”

ADVANCED TUTORING All Grades & Subjects K-12 NYS CERTIFIED TEACHERS READY TO WORK WITH YOUR CHILD

C: 718-755-3025

Affordable private & small group instruction offered by certified, experienced teachers.

KAREN L. GOLDMAN, MA, LMHC-BC PSYCHOTHERAPIST & BEREAVEMENT SPECIALIST

By Appointment Only • 1076 Forest Ave 347-850-2322 karengoldmansitherapy.com kl.goldman@yahoo.com NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor Treating Adults, Teens, Children & Families for Over 20 Years Evening and Weekend Hours

Certified Private Tutor

Tots “R” Us Daycare, Inc.

DYSLEXIC and NON-DYSLEXIC Is your child struggling with reading, spelling, writing or comprehension?

6 WEEKS–12 YEARS • EARLY PRE-SCHOOL CURRICULUM OPEN 6AM-6PM (EXTENDED HOURS AVAILABLE) • Free Breakfast, Lunch & Supper • Over Nights & Weekends • Hablamos Espanol • Summer Camp & Recreational Activities • NYS Licensed, ACD & HRA Accepted

WILSON READING PROGRAM MULTI-SENSORY APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM METHODOLOGY

Carol 347-215-2417 crlvsky@msn.com

98

FEBRUARY 2014

www.siparent.com

Accepting Admission at our Newest Location–Call for Info!

LOCATIONS LOCATED OFF AVE, NEAR PS 22 718-954-4108 5FOREST

Email: totsrusdaycare@hotmail.com

Raise Your Score on the Common Core!

Classes for Grades 3-7 Begin the Week of January 6 Register before December 1 Get $50.00 off Refer a Friend and Receive One Free Private Tutoring session!

917.748.9089 christine@tutoringbychristine.com

www.tutoringbychristine.com

Lessons For All Ages and Levels in Studio or Your Home Group Discounts Available

Common Core Tutor

NYS Certified Teacher

PRIVATE TUTOR GRADES K-8

Specializing in Early Reading Development Phonics • Homework Help • Test Prep

718.490.1787 • mdorazio11@hotmail.com “Teacher of the Year” 2011-2012 school year

Interested in Advertising? Call Today!

718.761.4800 x7139 Be part of the S.I. Parent Family and watch your business grow!

25 years of proven results!

READ S.I. PARENT ON YOUR TABLET OR SMARTPHONE! GO TO WWW.SIPARENT.COM FEBRUARY 2014

www.siparent.com

99

FAMILY NEEDS Professional Directory ATTORNEY

ATTORNEY

Cassandra & Gullo , PLLC

Special Needs Children Need Special Plans for

DIVORCE

Child Custody • Alimony • Child Support • Domestic Violence CRIMINAL

Former Brooklyn Prosecutor with over 20 years experience

Desk appearance tickets • DWI Drug & Sex Crimes • Homicide Pleas • Sentencing

Staten Island: 718-698-1130

PERSONAL INJURY Car Accidents • Slip and Fall Construction Accidents Premises & Product Liability Negligence Including Personal Trainer Negligence

FREE Initial Consultation

Adam B. Cohen, Esq.

Divorce Attorney

Call

Brooklyn: 718-701-2100

ATTORNEY

Parent Support “When family matters”

ORTHODONTICS

Attorneys at Law

718.442.7004

Retreats • 2 Day Programs • Sessions

Integrative Approach - 1 Family at a Time

Identify Core Issues • Gain Positive Communication Skills Create Harmonious Resolutions PARENTS WITH CHILDREN 5 YRS UP: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self Esteem, ADHD, Bullying, Oppositional Behavior, etc.

Bea Fulciniti MSEd, MSSpecEd, PhD Retired School Psychologist

718.948.2102 ~Affordable Rates~

JOHNSON & LANGWORTHY, P.C.

COUNSELING / COACHING

~Free Initial Consultation~

4060 Amboy Road in Great Kills

• Special Needs Trusts • Guardianships • Parents’ Wills

Deborah White, RN MS HNC Board Certified Holistic Nurse

917-932-3083 • www.twoangelshealing.com ORTHODONTICS

PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALIST, P.C. Dr. Michael Donato, Jr. Let Dr. Donato and his staff treat you to a quality orthodontic experience in a warm, caring & attentive setting.

Children • Adults • Invisalign™

(718)987-7688 199 Clarke Avenue Richmondtown

www.straightteeth.net

Salvatore R. Indelicato, D.M.D. Specialist in Orthodontics

GENTLE, PERSONAL, QUALITY CARE FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS 444 Huguenot Avenue • SI, NY 10312

(718) 967-5213

Member American Association of Orthodontists

Kim Williams-Jenkins

DIANE MILIO, L.C.S.W.

• Advanced Integrative Therapy • Indiv/Couples/Family • Special Needs/Identity/Self Esteem • Work & Educational Issues/ Abuse-Recovery • Autism/Aspergers SOME CREDIT CARDS ARE ACCEPTED

2504 Richmond Road • 10306

917-613-4009

Hour Phone Service

Attorney at Law

www.krichardspc.com 718.720.1000

1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY

COUNSELING SERVICES

KAREN L. GOLDMAN

NYS Licensed Psychotherapist Bereavement Specialist

MA, LMHC-BC

For Individuals, Groups, Adults and Children • Play & Art Therapy • Anxiety • Grief & Loss Issues • Relationship Issues • Depression • School/Career Issues

1076 Forest Ave • S.I. 347-850-2322

By Appointment • Day & Evening Hours

PSYCHOLOGIST

David Lerman Psy.D

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Culturally Competent Compassionate Counseling

Family Court • Child Custody Spousal & Child Support Domestic Violence • Adoptions Name Changes • Annulments Separation Agreements Free Initial Consultation for Divorce Actions 24 Kurt T. Richards, P.C.

NY/NJ CERTIFIED SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST

PSYCHOTHERAPIST LCSW-R, MSEd, CRC, CASAC

DIVORCE ATTORNEY

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, couples and families

EVALUATIONS INDIVIDUAL THERAPY SESSIONS GROUP MOTOR CLASSES MARTIAL ARTS PROGRAM Most Insurance Accepted Most Major Credit Cards Accepted

NYS LICENSED PSYCHOLOGIST

Individual / Family Therapy Psychoeducational Evaluations School Consultation Autism Program Case-manager Tel: 917.783.5378 Fax: 718.494.2352 Email: Dr.lerman@gmail.com

www.starspediatrictherapy.com

27 Washington Avenue (Side Entrance) Staten Island, NY 10314

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

718.317.7030 3710 Richmond Ave

Pediatric PROMPT and Feeding Therapy Marissa Ramos-Vitarelli MA, CCC-SLP-PC

Over 25 Years Experience Most Insurance Accepted Evening & Saturday Appointments Available

Speech-Language Pathologist PROMPT Certified Instructor for the PROMPT Institute

718.317.5782

917.887.8820

47 Lucy Loop • SI, NY 10312

120 Rathbun Avenue Staten Island, NY 10312

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

DOE APPROVED TO PROVIDE MONO AND BILINGUAL SERVICES FOR PRE-SCHOOL AND SCHOOL AGE CHILDREN.

Speech and Language Pathology Practice Serving You and Your Children

Autistic Spectrum Disorders, PDD, Craniofacial Differences, Fluency Disorders, Apraxia of Speech, “Late Talkers,” Hearing Impairments & Phonological / Articulation Disorders 347.640.4SLP (4757) • 188 Hylan Blvd • 10305 www.bbslp.org • Email: info@bbslp.org

Most Insurances Accepted

SPEECH PATHOLOGY 718-967-0359 • 3767 Richmond Ave www.brightstartspeech.com brightstart@si.rr.com

Speech & Language Pathology, P.C.

• Private practice with energetic & talented Speech Language Pathologists • Extensive experience • Full range of services (diagnostics & evaluations) • Occupational Therapy Now • NYS & ASHA Certified Accepting CPSE & RSA • Multi-Lingual Therapists

Offering Homecare

WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS. FREE CONSULTATIONS.

SPEECH PATHOLOGY FIND THE FUN IN FEEDING is a twelve-week feeding program, utilizing the SOS Approach to Feeding. It utilizes a non-invasive developmental model, that teaches your child how to interact, tolerate and eat a variety of foods in a non-stressful, supportive environment. Parent/caregiver training is a key part of this program to foster success at home.

A multidisciplinary approach is also utilized, incorporating the expertise of a feeding therapist, an occupational therapist, a nutritionist, a pediatrician or any relevant professional working with your child.

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR

718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308

CALL US AND HAVE YOUR BUSINESS ADVERTISED HERE!

Sandra Mazzucco M.A., C.C.C.-SLP

NYS LICENSED SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

Evaluations & Therapeutic Intervention for Children & Adults

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

HOME-BASED PEDIATRIC & ADOLESCENT SPEECH, LANGUAGE & FEEDING THERAPY & EVALUATIONS

• ASHA Certified •

ALLISON WEISS M.S. CCC-SLP

New South Shore Location:

NYS Licensed, ASHA Certified PROMPT Trained Certified SOS Feeding Provider

465 Belfield Ave • Annadale Town North Shore: 1076 Forest Ave

718-815-6024 SPEECH & OT

646.831.1981

ALLISONWEISSSLP@GMAIL.COM WWW.ALLISONWEISSSLP.COM

SPEECH, OT/PT

QUALITY CARE SPEECH CENTER, INC.

EVALUATION & TREATMENT OF PEDIATRIC SPEECH & LANGUAGE, FINE & GROSS MOTOR DELAYS & DISORDERS • Department of Education CPSE & CSE Tertiary Designation • Most Insurance Accepted • Homecare and School Services Offered

718-608-1508

southshorespeechtherapy.com 520B Bloomingdale Rd SI, NY 10309 415 Route 34, Suite 218 Colts Neck, N.J. 07722

NYS Licensed Speech Pathologists, Occupational & Physical Therapists Evaluation and Treatment of Pediatric Speech, Language, Feeding, Oral, Fine & Gross Motor Disorders, P.R.O.M.P.T., Russian Bilingual Services, State of the Art Sensory Gym Dept of Ed Provider (CPSE & RSA) Top of Tertiary Tier Designation

718.605.4301 3767 Hylan Blvd (Great Kills) Randi Pino M.A., CCC-SLP/TSHH, Director

www.qualitycarespeech.com

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY ASSOCIATES OF STATEN ISLAND, PLLC PROMPT TRAINED THERAPISTS SOS FEEDING APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM & WILSON TRAINED THERAPISTS EAROBICS

Individualized and Customized: Language Enhancement Programs, Auditory Training Programs, Fluency Enhancement Programs, Oral-Sensory-Motor Plans, Voice Treatment Programs, Accent Reduction Programs, Feeding Treatment Plans, Pediatric & Adult Clients We welcome NYC DOE clients, and we are now an associate of The Perfect Playground for all CSE cases.

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com NEW LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR LOCATION 718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

CLAIRE GUTTSMAN M.A., C.C.C. - SLP

Speech Language Pathology PC

1076 FOREST AVE. (corner of Manor Rd.)

718-447-5501 Certified professional, providing quality evaluations and treatment of adults and children for over 35 years.

718-761-4800 x7139

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

ADDITIONAL SERVICES: Public Speaking Improvement, Accent Reduction, Corporate Speech Pathology & Lecturing

• Diagnosis & treatment of infants, toddlers, adults • Autism, learning and communication disabilities • Articulation, impaired language, stuttering or lisps • All major credit cards and insurances

PreCare, SLP, PC • Radmila Gurevich, MA, CCC-SLP

WWW.SLPMD.COM

718.259.4001 • 1829 Richmond Rd

102www.siparent.com FEBRUARY 2014

Look For THE Re-Opening of our North Gannon Ave. School

As per Section 4410 of Article 89 of the Education Law

• Group or Individual Curriculums at Your Home, Preschool or our Center.

• Diagnostic Evaluations and Therapy by Licensed Certified Professionals. Placement determined by NYC CPSE. • NYS Approved Preschool Evaluation Site.

• FREE TUITION AND TRANSPORTATION* * For all eligibile children. Funding provided through state and local agencies. Parent may transport for reimbursement.

• Developmental Areas: Behavior and Socialization, Cognitive Development, Speech and Language Hearing Loss, Physical and Occupational Therapy.

• Three Convenient Staten Island Locations.

• Call or Visit our School & Pick Up a Free Brochure.

• For Information Concerning the Early Intervention Program Call 311.

WWW.GINGERBREADLCTR.COM ~Equal Opportunity Employer~

Ages 0-5 Programs Available 718 80 Woodrow Rd • 471 North Gannon Ave • 144 Bloomingdale Rd E-Mail: GingerbreadLearn@aol.com

5 Days - Full Day/Half Day

Not responsible for any typographical errors.

Extended Daycare Hours 7am-7pm Available FEBRUARY 2014

www.siparent.com

103

PRST STD

SOLUTIONS TO EVERYDAY PARENTING

1200 South Avenue • Suite 202 Staten Island, New York 10314

www.siparent.com

U.S. POSTAGE PAID STATEN ISLAND, NY PERMIT NO. 493