Staten Island Parent Magazine

APRIL 2015 AwardWinning Parenting Media Association Member

SOLUTIONS FOR EVERYDAY PARENTING

Soothing a

COLICKY BABY

“BUT I DON’T WANT TO GO TO SCHOOL!” WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CHILD DOESN’T WANT TO GO TO SCHOOL

5 Reasons Your Child Should Go To

SUMMER CAMP

SPECIAL NEEDS DIRECTORY AVAILABLE AT

www.siparent.com

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ADVERTISER INDEX PG. 93

TABLE OF CONTENTS APRIL 2015

COVER STORY Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders. April is National Autism Awareness Month. While autism covers a wide spectrum of disorders that should be diagnosed by a trained professional, this article by author Pamela Bryson-Weaver gives an overview of some of the common disorders.

Read more on page 50

COLUMNS

ARTICLES

32 Ask the Doctor

26 It's Easy Being Green!

by Kevin McDonough, M.D.

38 The Gift of Summer Camp 42 Prom & Graduation Party Dangers

40 Good Sports

by Joe LoVerde

54 The Cost of Having Kids

46 Life Is Grand!

56 When Your Child Doesn’t Want To Go To School

52 Growing Up Online

62 Organized Sports

60 Dear Teacher

by Marianna Randazzo

by Carolyn Jabs

66 Gigi’s World

by Gigi & Gina LaGuardia-Schrecker

S. I. LIVING 16 Community & School News 58 Birth Announcements 68 Family Calendar

FAMILY NEEDS

STAFF

SPECIAL SECTION 58 OMG...I’m a Mom! 91 Birthday Club

It’s In The Cards Party Services Family Classifieds Professional Directory

find all on

siparent.com!

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

64 Soothing a Colicky Baby

37 88 90 92

EASTER EVENTS, SPRING EVENTS, BASKET AUCTIONS AND MORE

New ! ne Onli

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Roselle Farina Hecht

DESIGN Michelle Yannaco

PUBLISHERS Roselle Farina Hecht Luciano Rammairone

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & FINANCES Linda Bellesi

SENIOR EDITOR/ DESIGNER Gerri Friscia

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Nicole Farina Jeannine Cintron

AWARD-WINNING MAGAZINE SINCE 2010

Disney LIVE!

Three classic FairyTales Tickets

Party Planning & Dance Directories ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ilene Cohen Janine Mulé Cecilia Saccomagno Jodi Fatto

Win

Sunday, April 19 • 3pm IZOD Center • East Rutherford, NJ 4 VIP Floor Seats • A $350 Value!

www.siparent.com to enter.

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.

1200 South Avenue, Suite 202 • SI, NY 10314 Advertising: 718.761.4800 x7139 | Info@siparent.com

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Regi Now ster Sum for m & Sa er ve!

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At Athletic Edge Sports Center Summer Camp, children ages 4-12 will receive professional instruction in Gymnastics, Dance and Cheer Technique. Other activities will include: arts & crafts, basketball, soccer, football, baseball, hockey & martial arts. Our full time campers will also enjoy special days which include pizza, ice cream, water games and movies. Our camp will be indoors and outdoors (weather permitting). Our staff is full of trained professionals with the goal of teaching your child the sport of their expertise in a safe and fun environment. All employees are safety certified and trained in CPR.

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SPARKLE THIS SPRING WITH SOME BRACES BLING Want a Beautiful, Healthy Smile? Here's what we can offer you: • Outstanding orthodontic care for all ages • Friendly, courteous, organized staff • Beautiful, clean, comfortable environment • Sterilized instruments & equipment • State of the art self-ligating brackets (Metal or Clear)

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League Play

Open Play

Staten Island's ONLY XTREME Family Entertainment Center BOWLING • ARCADE • BAR SNACK BAR • PRO-SHOP

CLASSIC BIRTHDAY PACKAGE 1 hour of bowling, party attendants, 45 minutes in a private room, 20 arcade tokens per child, shoe rental, pizza with unlimited soda, paper goods, invitations, balloons & Bowling Pin Sport Cup for Birthday Child.

ADULT PARTIES ALSO AVAILABLE Have a fun night out with family, friends or co-workers.

Packages available.

MONDAY NIGHT BOWL-TILL-YOU-DROP 9:30 PM to 12:30 AM $10 per person (minimum 4 people per lane) ALL YOU CAN BOWL!

$2 TUESDAYS from 9:30 PM to 11:00 PM $2 Games (maximum 4 games) $2 Shoes, $2 Slices of Pizza, $2 Tap Beers

DAILY BOWLING SPECIAL– ONLY $25

MERS SUMG E LEANOU W FO

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Monday thru Friday / Noon till 5 PM 1 Hour of Bowling, up to 4 shoe rentals & a pizza pie

SATURDAY & SUNDAY MORNING MADNESS 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM $10 per hour / per Lane

Subject to Lane Availability. Management Reserves All Rights. Rain Days, Holidays & Black Outs may Void All Specials. Mention at Desk upon Check-In.

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141 East Service Rd (Exit 7 Off West Shore Expwy)

www.showplacebowling.net • (718) 477-BOWL (2695)

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Birt h Par day ties

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STATEN ISLANDS #1 PRIVATE DAY CAMP SINCE 1995!

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Private, Air-Conditioned Facility ALL SPORTS AND SWIMMING ARTS & CRAFTS, DANCE, AND MARTIAL ARTS DAILY TRIPS & SPECIAL EVENTS MOVIES, SKATING & BOWLING, BASEBALL GAMES, AMUSEMENT PARKS & MUCH MORE!

Adult supervision, F/T medical staff, CIT programs Sibling Discounts, Free Payment Plans No Registration Fees or Hidden Costs

Kathy & Larry Marantz, Directors

718-761-1492 • 1075 Woodrow Rd

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S.I. LIVING

y t i n u m Com & l o o h C s

Bakery Bakery

s nes e r wa re’s A e h t m utis ether eds in A wh il is l ne at Apr h, and specia a gre . ’s rt h nt Mo ld wit not, it suppo m i r r s a ch r life o w you n auti h you to sho rself o esearc u r e ’t tim ate yo fund d don c n to Edu onate s. A ht It m ! a or d progr to Lig pril 2 t A and forge ue on Bl Children’s s Boutique Up

important April school Dates April 2 – Holy Thursday (Catholic Schools Closed) April 3-10 – Spring Recess (Schools Closed) April 13 – School Resumes April 14-16 – NY State English Language Arts (ELA) Exams (Grades 3-8) April 17-21 – Make-Up Dates for ELA Exams (Grades 3-8) April 22-24 – NY State Mathematics Exams (Grades 3-8) April 27-29 – Make Up Dates for Mathematics Exams (Grades 3-8) April 23 – Pre-Kindergarten Non-Attendance Day April 24 – Pre-Kindergarten Application Deadline April 28 – Catholic School Touring Tuesday

shine a light on Autism Thursday, April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day. In honor of the day, the group Autism Speaks is encouraging the world to “Light It Up Blue” to spread awareness. The initiative is supported globally, with such iconic landmarks as the Empire State Building, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Sydney Opera House glowing blue in past years. You can show your own support by wearing blue clothes or accessories, switching your outdoor lights to blue bulbs, or sharing your “LIUB” pictures on social media using the hashtag #LIUB. Visit

siparent.com/liub to learn more ways to go blue on April 2 and to learn how you can make a donation to Autism Speaks.

new school holidays Mayor De Blasio and Schools Chancellor Farina recently announced

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Pet Shop

that two new holidays will be added to the NYC public school calendar, starting in the 2015-2016 school year. The dates of each holiday will vary, and can occur anytime throughout the year. For the 2015-2016 year, schools will be closed on September 24 in observance of the Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha and in July 2016 (for summer school students) for Eid al-Fitr. Students will not lose any instructional days as a result of the new holidays. According to Mayor De Blasio, the changes to the calendar were made in order to reflect the diversity of our city and out of respect for our fast-growing Muslim community of almost one million people.

mlB Goes Peanut Free Forget the peanuts and crackerjacks; baseball fans with nut allergies don’t want them to ever come back. Major (and some minor) league stadiums across the country have begun to offer nut-free days, and some have even created permanent nut-controlled seating, so that baseball fans who suffer from peanut allergies can finally enjoy a day at the ballpark. The New York Mets Fifth Annual Peanut Controlled Suite Day will be on Sunday, April 19, vs. the Florida Marlins. Visit siparent.com for a link to purchase tickets. The New York Yankees have offered peanut free days in past years as well, but the 2015 nut free game date has yet to be announced.

Anti-Drug initiative Did you know that, of the five boroughs, Staten Island has the highest proportion of youth who binge drink as well as the highest percentage of youth who have abused prescription medication?

APRIL 2015

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S.I. LIVING

Art Lab, Inc.

Community & School News

Staten Island's Art School & Gallery

CELEBRATE 40 YEARS OF ART LAB! Take a class! Visit our gallery, winner of SI Advance's Reader's Choice Award as best Gallery on Staten Island.

Classes for All Levels Ages 3 thru Adult

Have Your Child's Birthday Party at Art Lab! Call for details!

Comic Book Art, Drawing, Mosaics, Painting, Photography, Printmaking & Sewing Art Lab archival photo

Classes also offered at Conference House Park

2015 Highlights:

June 2015 April 2015 • Start of Spring Semester April 6th • Children's Summer Camps • Summer Studio • Art Lab's 40th Anniversary Party Scholarship Program • 40 for 40 Anniversary Exhibition

Art Lab 1000 Richmond Terrace • Staten Island, NY 10301 718.447.8667 www.artlabsi.org • info@artlabsi.org Follow Us On:

Suzanne’s Fashion Corner Ltd. & Baby

h Baby Children’s Wear

COMMUNION DRESSES & BOYS COMMUNION SUITS, WHITE & NAVY SIZES 5-14 ~HUSKY SIZES 8H-18H~

SHOP EARLY for Mother's Day LADIES SPORTWEAR, EVENING WEAR, JEWELRY, HANDBAGS AND CHILDREN’S WEAR

~Lay Away Welcome~ 10% SENIOR DISCOUNT EVERYDAY (Not to be combined with other offers or on Christening/Communion outfits) 10am-6pm 718-442-8992 • 656 Forest Avenue Mon-Sat Credit & Debit

www.suzannesfashioncorner.com

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Cards Accepted

District Attorney Daniel M. Donovan, Jr. recently announced a new anti-drug presentation that is now being offered to all high schools and intermediate schools on Staten Island. The program, called “No D Initiative” is a play on the term “OD,” an abbreviation for overdose. It includes a powerful, interactive 35minute classroom presentation that focuses on real life examples of opioid abuse, the horrors confronted by families of addicts and the penalties associated with drug-related crimes.

The goals are to break through the myth of teenage invincibility, educate youth about the true dangers of drugs, and prevent cocaine, heroin and pill addiction before it starts. The program combines a PowerPoint display with a lecture provided by two Assistant District Attorneys with experience prosecuting narcotics cases. The first program was held at the Michael J. Petrides School back in February, and Tottenville, Susan Wagner, and Port Richmond have since signed up as well.

Summer Youth Employment Staten Island teens and young adults looking for summer jobs can apply through the city’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP).

Qualified youths, ages 14-24, will be placed in paid, entry-level summer jobs for six weeks in July and August. SYEP also provides workshops on job readiness, career exploration, financial literacy, and opportunities to continue education and social growth. Visit

siparent.com/teenjobs for more information and to find out how to apply.

Moms in Training Fight Cancer Here’s your chance to get in shape and have fun while raising money to save lives! Moms in Training is a social, flexible 10-week fitness program which enables moms to come together with their kids and exercise their power over cancer. You can even train with your baby in a stroller! Participants will train for an optional walk/run event in Central Park on June 13 while raising money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Moms in Training has raised over $1.3 billion to fund research and advances for cancer patients around the world. Want to join? The group meets at 9am on Sunday mornings at Clove Lakes Park. Visit siparent.com for a link

to the online registration form.

Free Anti-Bullying Workshops For anyone who has ever been a victim of

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News bullying, it helps to know you aren’t alone. The anti-bullying organization Play It Forward has begun offering free monthly workshops for kids and teens who have been bullied or teased, where they will be able to share their story in a safe environment and meet others who have been through similar experiences. Parents are welcome to join and meet with other parents.

The workshops will take place from 4-6pm on April 21 and May 12 at the Rossville AME Zion Church (basement) at 584 Bloomingdale Road.

For more information, call Debra Barone at 646765-6531.

St. George Day 2015

Specializing in Children’s Optometry Dr. Linda Bui is a graduate of the Southern California College of Optometry where she graduated with honors. An optometrist who loves taking care of children, she is an expert at performing eye exams on children age 5+ and a contact lens specialist as well.

If your child may be having trouble with their vision or you just want to be sure they have healthy eyes, call us today at 718-984-7616 to make an appointment.

Dr. Bui also can fit first time contact lens wearers as well, and we have a wide selection of both eyeglasses for children and contact lenses to offer in our optical shop.

www.silasik.com New Victory Blvd Location!

1500 Victory Blvd SI, NY 10301

877-4SILASIK •718.984.7616 20

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The St. George Day Festival, a local Earth Day and arts celebration, will take place Saturday, April 25 from 11am to 5pm in and around Tompkinsville Park. This free, North Shore event will include kids’ activities, family oriented fun, outdoor art installations, live music, street performance, crafts, and Earth Day demonstrations. Three of St. George Day’s signature offerings, Earth Day Zone, the Festival Dragon Parade, and the giant puppet spectacle, “St. George & the Friendly Dragon,” will again be presented. Visit siparent.com for a link to

further details.

Second Chance Toys Did you know that nearly 14 million children in the United States – 22% of all children – live in families with incomes below the federal poverty level? Second Chance Toys is an organization dedicated to rescuing and recycling plastic toys for children in need, thereby helping the environment as well by keeping nonbiodegradable plastic out of landfills. The group holds toy collections twice yearly, in December for the holidays and in April for Earth Week. You can run a local collection of your own or bring your toys to a local drop-off location. The nearest drop-off centers are located in New Jersey in the towns of Maplewood, River Edge, and Fair Lawn.

Visit siparent.com for a link to more information.

School Discipline Reforms Schools Chancellor Farina recently announced there will be a series of school climate and discipline reforms in NYC public schools to hasten the decline of crime in schools, a measure which Mayor De Blasio feels will allow all students to be fairly set up for success.

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APRIL 2015

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Pouch Day Camp

Owned and operated by Boy Scouts of America

Boy Scouts of America

A fun-filled outdoor experience consisting of 120 acres of pristine wilderness in the heart of Staten Island’s Green Belt. William H. Pouch Scout Camp has miles of hiking trails and a gorgeous 17-acre lake.

Pouch Day Camp is accredited by the Boy Scouts of America and regularly inspected by the NYC Dept. of Health. Children are supervised by well-trained counselors and accredited program staff.

William H. Pouch Scout Camp 1465 Manor Road 212.651.3073 • Marcelle Grant www.PouchCamp.org PROGRAM ACTIVITIES: • Theater Arts • Trains, Planes, Boats & Maps • Swimming • Crafts • Scavenger Hunts • Water Bottle Rockets • Fishing • Nature and Ecology Learn About: • Field Sports/Olympics Science • Archery Technology • Hiking Engineering • Climbing Wall Mathematics • Knot Tying • Camp Olympics • Weekly Themed Activities • Friday BBQ MONTHLY TRIPS: • BounceU • S.I. Yankees • Aquarium FOR SCOUTERS: • Artist • Citizenship • Emergency Preparedness • Scientist

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For Grades 2-6 $199 by May 31st $300 after May 31st Call Today!

Mon-Fri 9am-4pm Extended Hours 7am-6pm

S.I. LIVING Community & School News Under the new policy, principals will need to seek authorization to suspend younger students, school staff will be discouraged from calling 911 to report incidents, and new procedures will be set forth for restraining aggressive students, to name a few of the new rules. The reforms have been met with controversy from parents who fear a more relaxed discipline code could cause even more problems in classrooms, rather than promise a safer environment for teachers and students.

Visit siparent.com for a link to the list of changes being implemented under the new policy.

High Rock Park Challenge Grab a buddy and get ready to rock the competition! The 2015 High Rock Challenge Adventure Race will be held on Saturday and Sunday, April 25 and 26. Held in memory of NYPD Officer John Kelly, two-member teams must run together at all times and compete in mystery events located throughout the approximately 10k course. It runs along almost the entire length of the Greenbelt trail system. Visit siparent.com for a link to the registration form. If you are interested in volunteering to assist with handing out refreshments and directing the runners, call 718-667-2165 ext. 311.

Dancing and Donating Local teens danced the night away for a good cause last month at the 31st Annual SuperDance Fundraiser. The event was held on March 7 at Monsignor Farrell High School and raked in over $67,000 in donations for local charities.

The annual event is organized by a group of hardworking and generous students from Monsignor Farrell High School and St. Joseph Hill Academy High School who call themselves FOSI (Friends of Staten Island). The proceeds from this year’s successful dance will be split amongst four Staten Island charities: Gianna Nicole’s Heart of Hope Foundation, Camp Good Grief, Cross Road Foundation, and Protectors of Pine Oak Woods.

Free After School Programs City Parks Foundation, in partnership with School's Out New York City (SONYC), is offering free after school programs for middle school students at Faber Park Field House on Richmond Terrace and Faber Street. Students can make films, play sports, discover nature, receive

WOULD YOUR CHILD BENEFIT FROM A SMALL NURTURING ENVIRONMENT?

UP TO ME! Workshop

Welcoming eds Special Ne Students

By Sabrina Panfilo, author of The Belly Bug Bully, Our Special Fish Dish Wish, Tomey and the Caterpillar, Cosmo’s Crave & Guppy’s Gall Saturday, May 2 • 9am – 12pm 308 Seaview Ave. (Freedom From Fear Downstairs Meeting Room)

$99 Early Registration Fee (1/2 Off if you join with a sibling or friend) Includes Writing & Illustration Instruction for 4 Monthly Classes, All Supplies, Printing & Publication Expenses. Scholarships Available. Call to inquire.

Workshops welcome children from elementary, middle & high school who have a love for the arts, learning, and themselves!

UP TO ME! is a child empowerment program that teaches kids of all ages to believe in themselves so that they will achieve greatness. The Program teaches children how to keep a positive mental attitude and excel personally and academically through the art of creativity.

UP TO ME! magazine is published and distributed on a monthly basis and will be the work of our aspiring future leaders.

sabrina@sabrinapanfilo.com 347.729.2729 www.sabrinapanfilo.com

New Social & Academic Programs Coming Fall 2015

Small Classes

STATEN ISLAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL is the place for you!

PRE-K AND KINDERGARTEN-8TH GRADE 2 & 3 YEAR OLD TODDLER PROGRAM AVAILABLE Edu Progressive Elementary Curriculum Exc cationa e l S Full Academic Program incellence 1965 Full Size Gym (including yoga) Science, Cultural Subjects, Computers, Art & Music Fun, Interactive & Educationally Enriched Day Trips

for Call our aT

718-967-2196 • 4240 Amboy Rd (Great Kills) www.simontessorischool.com Licensed by NYC, Chartered by NYS

More Than A Birthday Center – It's A Magical Experience!

9 THEMED PARTY PACKAGES

Plumkin, Doll & Me, Fashionista, Dragon, Stuffkins, Princess & Knights, Ice Princess, Fairies & Pirates, Spa In our Enchanted Forest with 10,000 flowers, butterfly garden and mushrooms GLASS SLIPPER Back B ack b byy Popular Popular PRINCESS Demand Demand MEET & GREET & ROYAL TEA PARTY Sat, April 25 • 10am JAKE THE PIRATE MEET & GREET Sun, April 26 • 10am MOMMY & ME BRUNCH Sat, May 9 • 10am Purchase tickets through Eventbrite on our Facebook page. All sales are final.

718.494.6000 • 800.203.4157 3801 Victory Blvd • SI 10314 www.plumkinvillesi.com Follow us on Facebook @ plumkinville of staten island party@plumkinvilleofsi.com

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S.I. LIVING Community & School News homework help, enjoy trips and more! Space is limited, so visit siparent.com to find out how you can secure a space for your middle schooler.

Special Election Governor Cuomo has set May 5 as the date of the special election for New York’s 11th congressional district, which encompasses all of Staten and and parts of southern Brooklyn. The seat was left vacant after its most recent representative, Republican Michael Grimm, resigned in January after pleading guilty to tax evasion. Are you registered to vote? Remember, every vote counts! Visit siparent.com for a link to a

voter registration form.

March for Babies This year, three million people will join their family, friends, and colleagues in nearly 700 communities across the nation to raise awareness and funds to benefit babies in the annual March of Dimes event, March for Babies.

The money raised supports community programs that help moms have healthy, full-term, pregnancies. This year, the Staten Island March for Babies will take place on Sunday, April 26 at the Staten Island Mall (in the Sears parking lot). Visit

siparent.com for a registration form.

That’s What Friends Are For

Fun family-friendly events, exclusive online giveaways, big savings from local merchants, and always up-to-date seasonal happenings are just a few great reasons to become a Family of Friends member! To start receiving the S.I.

Parent weekly newsletter, just go to siparent.com and fill out the form in the upper right box of our home page. You can also sign up directly from our Facebook page by clicking on the “Sign Up” app button. We promise we won’t spam you; we’ll only send you the good stuff!

Here’s What You’ll Find Online

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For loads of more info on the items above, check out SIParent.com’s Community and School News Section (it’s under the SI Living tab) for links: ~ Light It Up Blue for Autism Awareness ~ NY Mets Peanut Controlled Suite Day ~ Summer Youth Employment Program ~ Moms In Training ~ St. George Day ~ Second Chance Toys ~ NYC Public School Discipline Reforms ~ Voter Registration Form ~ March for Babies

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EARTH DAY

>>>

KERMIT WAS WRONG IT’S EASY BEING GREEN!

ince 1970, the month of April has been synonymous with Earth Day. Although this day of awareness is now 45 years old, it is still gaining popularity as more and more people become interested in finding ways to “go green” for the health and benefit of their children and family, as well as protecting the planet.

S

Looking at a complete revamp of a lifetime of habits is overwhelming, but don’t be discouraged. The best way to tackle a lifestyle makeover is to employ the same advice you tell your children about school projects: Break it into smaller chunks. Take it one step at a time.

Focusing on one change a month or one change a week will allow you to celebrate successes more often along the way to achieving your goal.

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY BY GOING GREEN. IT’S EASIER THAN YOU THINK!

Lifestyle Changes: • Bring reusable bags when shopping; use reusable lunch boxes and wrapping. This is an easy one to start with. The reusable bags are available everywhere; they hold more items; and big bonus: you won’t have all those annoying flimsy plastic bags to dispose of.

• Plant a garden and grow some vegetables, herbs, and fruit.

Connecting with the earth and seeing how food is grown will help teach children about science, nature, agriculture, and so much more.

Depending on the size and nature of the garden, it can help save money and beautify your surroundings.

• Reduce or eliminate paper and plastic products, such as plates, napkins and even paper towels. Here is another easy starter. Using “real” plates, cups and glasses just makes meals more enjoyable and less like you are eating fast food. Using cloth napkins could be a second-stage switch if you don’t want to change all at once.

• Spend more time outdoors with kids enjoying nature. A simple walk around your neighborhood will help your children appreciate nature, community and culture. Keep up the conversation with questions and observations. It is always good for them to know their surrounding area.

• Drive less—carpool, combine errands, walk when you can.

Planning out your errands conserves both gas and time.

• Bake from scratch. It’s really not so hard (especially with so many simple recipes available on Pinterest and elsewhere) and it tastes so much better! Added bonus: you know exactly what you’re eating and feeding your kids. Baking with kids is a wonderful activity that combines math and manual dexterity with bonding and fun! It’ll save you money and teach your children skills they can use for a lifetime. Sounds like win-win, don’t you agree?

• Turn off lights, TV, and other electronics when you are not using them. Implement the good advice your dad always gave you—You are not related to the Rockefellers, you know! It’s also a good idea to actually unplug charging wires from the outlets when they aren’t in use as electricity is still running live through the wire.

• Wash full loads only in the washer and dishwasher. Be careful not to overload the washing machine though, or your clothes won’t be properly cleaned.

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• Switch to a glass water bottle to eliminate the need to purchase and throw out all those small plastic ones, plus water tastes so much better from glass without chemicals leaching in from plastic (especially if it gets warmed). There are many options available with silicone coverings to protect the glass from breaking.

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• Recycle batteries. FYI: the Greenbelt Nature Center has a small bin on the bench just inside the door where you can drop off old batteries. While you’re there, use the opportunity to take a hike in the Greenbelt or attend one of the Nature Center’s classes to have your kids learn more about animals and the environment.

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Shopping Choices: • Be mindful when shopping—look for products with less packaging. If a product is reusable or refillable, even better! Less is more when it comes to packaging. The same is true when it comes to the ingredient list.

Look for foods that are not processed or minimally processed. Read the ingredient list and stay clear of high futrose corn syrup, partially hydrogenated oils, and food dyes.

Making these changes in what your family is consuming is a great, and important, first step to clean eating.

• Switch to eco-friendly cleaning products. There are several eco-friendly companies that use less chemicals and toxic ingredients. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to protecting human health and the environment. They publish a guide to healthy cleaning with safety ratings for more than 2,000 products. www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners • Buy more organic fruits and vegetables.

Choose organic for produce that is especially high in pesticides. Again, the EWG is a great resource for this. They highlight the cleanest and dirtiest conventionallyraised fruits and vegetables so you can make an informed choice. There is even an app you can install on your smartphone for quick reference when you are at the supermarket facing a great sale on conventional avocado and pineapple. Spoiler alert: Avocado and pineapple contain virtually no detectable pesticides.

• Select grass-fed beef when shopping for meats. Also, butter made from grass-fed cows. You’ll taste the difference as well as benefit from a healthier diet.

• Buy eggs from free-range hens. This is not only a matter of being humane, but hens raised this way produce eggs that are higher in vitamins. Conventional-raised hens are confined in coops or cages that restrict their movement, crowding them so much that they often cannot even lift their wings. An environment like this is not only cruel, but produces nutritionally inferior eggs compared with hens raised on pasture.

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• Skip the antibacterial soap. A U.S. FDA advisory committee found that plain soap and water killed bacteria and microbes just as well as antibacterial soaps without exposing your family to all the chemicals, like triclosan, which can pose serious health hazards. Get a foaming hand soap, and then refill with just a couple of tablespoons liquid castile soap (like Dr. Bronners) and water, adding a few drops of sunflower or olive oil (for moisture and to keep the pump in good shape). This will save money while protecting your family’s health. Cha-ching!

• Shop at the Farmers Market! Support local farms and enjoy fresh produce that hasn’t traveled thousands of miles. A nice Saturday activity for a family, too.

Staten Island Farmers Markets: • Saint George Greenmarket St. Marks & Hyatt Streets (inside St. George Theatre parking lot) Open Saturdays, 4/4 – 12/26, 8am-2pm • Staten Island Mall Greenmarket 2655 Richmond Avenue (inside main entrance parking lot) Open Saturdays, 6/13 – 11/21, 8am-3pm • Heritage Farm at Snug Harbor Opening in May; call for details

If you have a favorite tip for going green, please share it with us to pass along.

Post on our Facebook page (we are friends, aren’t we?) or email editorial@siparent.com.

We need to all work together for a better world.

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify around 1 in 68 American children as on the autism spectrum–a ten-fold increase in prevalence in 40 years. This increase is partly explained by improved diagnosis and awareness. Studies also show that autism is four to five times more common among boys than girls.

There is often nothing about how children with autism look that sets them apart, but they may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from most other children. The learning, thinking, and problemsolving abilities of those with autism can range from gifted to severely challenged.

Recent research confirms that appropriate screening can determine whether a child is at risk for autism as young as one year. While every child develops differently, we also know that early treatment improves outcomes, often dramatically. Studies show, for example, that early intensive behavioral intervention improves learning, communication and social skills in young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

The following "red flags" may indicate your child is at risk for an autism spectrum disorder: • No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months or thereafter.

• No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or other facial expressions by nine months or thereafter.

• No babbling by 12 months • No gesturing (pointing, waving bye-bye) by 12 months.

• No words by 16 months.

• No two-word meaningful phrases (without imitating or repeating) by 24 months.

• Any loss of speech or babbling or social skills at any age.

EARLY SIGNS OF AUTISM:

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• Doesn’t make eye contact (e.g. look at you when being fed).

• Doesn’t smile when smiled at.

• Doesn’t respond to his or her name or to the sound of a familiar voice.

• Doesn’t follow objects visually.

• Doesn’t point or wave goodbye or use other gestures to communicate.

• Doesn’t follow the gesture when you point things out.

• Doesn’t make noises to get your attention.

• Doesn’t initiate or respond to cuddling.

• Doesn’t imitate your movements and facial expressions.

• Doesn’t reach out to be picked up.

• Doesn’t play with other people or share interest and enjoyment.

• Doesn’t ask for help or make other basic requests.

Typical infants are very interested in the world and people around them. By the first birthday, a typical toddler interacts with others by looking people in the eye, copying words and actions, and using simple gestures such as clapping and waving "bye bye.” Typical toddlers also show interest in social games, like peek-aboo and pat-a-cake. But a young child with ASD might have a very hard time learning to interact with other people.

ASD begins before the age of 3 and lasts throughout a person's life, although symptoms may improve over time. Some children with ASD show hints of future problems within the first few months of life. In others, symptoms may not surface until 24 months or later. Some children with an ASD seem to develop normally until around 18 to 24 months of age and then they stop gaining new skills, or they lose the skills they once had. Studies have shown that one third to half of parents of children with ASD noticed a problem before their child’s first birthday, and nearly 80%–90% saw problems by 24 months of age. It is important to note that some people without ASD might also have some of these symptoms.

It is essential to remember that missing any individual milestone by itself—for example, how a child manages transitions, engages in meaningful interactions with adults, or uses her imagination—can be typical. However, a pattern of unusual behaviors and constant use of certain behaviors over time or problems with communication or social skills are cause for concern.

Presently, we don’t have a medical test that can diagnose autism. Instead, specially trained physicians and psychologists administer autismspecific behavioral evaluations.

Parents know their children best. If you have any other concerns about your child's development, don't wait. Speak to your doctor now about screening your child for autism.

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We Did It Again!

S.I. Parent Wins Multiple Awards at the Parenting Media Association (PMA) Editorial and Design Competition

n February 28th, at the culmination of their annual three-day Convention, the PMA announced the winners of its 2014 awards for leading parenting publications. We are so pleased to announce that S.I. Parent was awarded a Silver and a Bronze Award for entries in two design categories!

O

The PMA’s Awards Competition recognizes excellence in journalism, photography, and design achieved by publishers, editors, writers, and designers at member publications. A panel of 19 judges, coordinated by Professor Daryl Moen of the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism, reviewed entries from many publications to choose the winners in each category. All judges drew upon significant professional experience in selecting the winners.

S.I. Parent is proud to add this year’s awards to the list of Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards from previous years.

S.I. Parent is also pleased to claim that our designer Michelle Yannaco’s entry was selected as the winner of the PMA logo design competition.

PMA is a nonprofit organization whose member publications represent a monthly circulation of 5 million and a readership of 11.5 million. Parenting continues to be a powerful and productive niche for publishers delivering targeted ads and editorial.

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SUMMER FUN

>>>

FIVE REASONS TO GIVE YOUR CHILD THE GIFT OF SUMMER CAMP

treasure the stories my children tell after arriving home from summer camp. The week-long adventures include experiences sure to build character and bond relationships. Every camp has a unique way of teaching kids their value while giving them opportunities to experience all kinds of fun they would never find at home.

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The spring months are the perfect time to begin exploring summer camps. To find one that fits your child's needs, seek out opinions from friends and neighbors; ask teachers and church counselors what camps they recommend.

Whether day camp or overnight camp, there's sure to be one your child will love and gain valuable skills from while attending.

Camp counselor Jamie Newman, SUMMER CAMP CAN BE A GREAT EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR CHILD. who has worked the past two summers at a children's camp for hobbies they can't experience at home, without academic pressure or kids ages 5-16, expresses her enthusiasm for sending kids to camp. She expectations. Kids gain self-confidence through trying new things and says, "Camp encourages kids to try new things and teaches them discovering talents they didn't know they had. confidence through new experiences. They learn valuable life lessons when encouraged to work through their fears and try something even 3. Camp teaches good sportsmanship by encouraging each child to if it doesn't feel comfortable to them. Also, when kids are thrown be fair and kind, win or lose.Team activities teach kids how to cooperate together in a cabin for a week, they're forced to learn how to get along with another and the value of getting along with others through with others and often build lasting relationships that can continue working together and supporting one another. when they return home."

Our five kids have attended summer camps ranging from athletic camps to church camps to choir and band camps. Each camp plays a unique role in building character qualities and creating life-long memories through everyday activities and interactions with others.

4. Camp fosters new friendships with kids who come from varying backgrounds--helping kids gain an understanding of how others live outside their community. In a relaxed atmosphere, kids easily make friends while they play, sing, work, eat, and bunk together.

If you need some encouragement to give your child the gift of summer camp, here are a few thoughts to consider:

5. Camp creates life-long memories of new adventures in places they've never experienced before. Camp offers carefree days where kids can learn how to thrive outside the structure of over-scheduled days.

1. Camp encourages independence and allows children a chance to make decisions on their own in a safe, caring environment. Kids benefit from new relationships with camp counselors who care about them and want to help them with everyday struggles.

2. Camp forces kids to unplug from technology and enjoy the beauty and benefits of nature. Through outside activities, kids find new

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So what are you waiting for? Have you signed your child up for camp yet? There's adventure and character-building experiences waiting for your child this summer!

By Gayla Grace, a freelance writer and mom to five, who sends her kids to camp every summer and always looks forward to hearing new stories when they return.

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LOOKING FOR AN EXCITING AND FUN SUMMER JOB?

GOOD SPORTS

by Joe LoVerde

Adults Cheat and Kids Suffer!

Little League season gets underway across Staten Island this month and, if you have a child registered in one of the borough’s leagues, you might want to ask: Are all of the players in our league from within the correct boundaries?

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This comes to mind with the action taken recently by Little League Baseball to strip last year’s storybook national champions, the Jackie Robinson West Little League of Chicago, of its title because it used players from outside the league’s boundaries.

“This is a heartbreaking decision," Little League International President and CEO Stephen D. Keener said in a statement. “What these players accomplished on the field and the memories and lessons they have learned during the Little League World Series tournament is something the kids can be proud of, but it is unfortunate that the actions of adults have led to this outcome.”

You might ask: Could it happen here?

It already has — lots of times, to my knowledge.

Only one team from Staten Island was actually caught — a Little League girls’ 10-year-old All Star team in 1997. That team went unbeaten into the championship game of the tournament before a protest led to an investigation that uncovered that at least four players should have been playing for other leagues.

The night the protest was lodged was ugly, with parents from both sides shouting accusations at each other and 9- and 10year-old girls in tears.

The district chose not to disqualify the team or force it to forfeit any games, instead making four players ineligible for the title game, which that offending team went on to win. The team moved on to the sectionals — where the league chose to allow the ineligible players to compete. No one in Queens, where the sectional tournament took place, knew about the district ruling, so the adults in charge just figured it was OK to cheat again.

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I know of other teams with similar infractions that never got caught, for one reason or other. One of my own children played on a Little League All-Star team with three 12-year-olds and nine 11-year-olds. The coaches entered that team into an out-of-state tournament to warm up for the Little League tourney, which wasn’t allowed. What’s worse, though, is that the manager entered the team into an 11-and-under tournament, doctoring the birth certificates of the three 12s.

There have been other instances I’ve witnessed in my roles as coach and parent since 1974, and not just in Little League. No doubt there are others.

The father of Tre Hondras, one of the Robinson league’s players, said his son was “distraught” by Little League decision to yank the national title.

“It hurts,” the dad said. “He’s pretty emotional about it.” Not surprising.

Remember the case of Danny Almonte? He was the star pitcher who led Rolando Paulino Little League in the Bronx to the Little League World Series in 2001. Paulino made it to the United States championship game before losing. But weeks later, after Mayor Rudy Giuliani had given the team the key to the city, it was discovered that Almonte was 14 years old old (two years over the maximum age limit) and the team was forced to forfeit all of its tournament victories.

The kids from Jackie Robinson West will be branded cheaters, just as Danny Almonte was. But in both cases, the kids weren't the cheaters. The adults were.

And these kids aren’t the only victims.

For every Little League or Babe Ruth League team that adds a kid from outside their boundaries, there is a child who rightfully belongs on an All-Star team who is left off or sits on the bench.

For every non-roster player that a travel team sneaks into a game, a child who should be playing — who rightly made the team and whose parents coughed up the registration fee — is made to watch from the sidelines.

What are we teaching our children when we knowingly break the rules?

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TEENS

>>>

PROM & GRADUATION PARTY DANGERS

s a parent would you ever put your signature on this permission slip?

A

An Underage Drinking Permission Slip Because my son/daughter has told me he/she is not driving and that he/she can handle a few drinks, I give him/her permission to drink 12+ beers and/or up to 15 shots of liquor during the night. I am aware that because he/she is legally intoxicated, he/she will probably get into a car driven by someone else that has been drinking and that he/she will be more likely to engage in unsafe or unwanted sex. I am also acknowledging that drunken kids sometimes take recreational drugs and get a little crazy. Please do not arrest him/her because that could hurt his/her future.

–Signed, Concerned Parent It is highly unlikely that a parent MANY TEENS USE PROM NIGHT AS AN EXCUSE TO ABUSE DRUGS AND ALCOHOL. would ever sign permission for their child to abuse alcohol and drugs but Prom Nights + Alcohol = Dangerous Mix by looking the other way and not having important conversations, they Students have a right to enjoy an evening of prom dresses, tuxedos, unwittingly have signed a permission slip that potentially makes their flowers, music, and good friends but it shouldn’t be an excuse to drink, child the next statistic. use other drugs, or put themselves and others in danger.

As we enter prom and graduation seasons the likelihood that your Parents, it isn’t the time to allow your child to drink ‘just this one time’ Staten Island teenager will be involved in a party scene or gathering or host a pre-prom (or graduation) party where alcohol is allowed. that will put her or him at risk is high. Over 95% of Staten Island parents Don’t look away if you think your child might be at a place where and caregivers report having family rules about alcohol use, yet only he/she can consume alcohol. BE the PARENT who sets and enforces 50% report having had a conversation with their children about alcohol limits. If nothing else makes sense, remember that it is ILLEGAL for your risks and use. teenager to possess any alcoholic beverage and it is a CRIME in New York State to provide alcohol to minors.

On Staten Island, close to one in three youth report having used alcohol in the past month, with 15% reporting consuming more than Consider what possible good can happen in a rented motel room far five drinks on one occasion. The average age for first alcohol use is 12.7 from home with only teens present? Parents need to be involved in years and, of students who drink, one in three report getting alcohol knowing the prom plans. Check who is in the limousine. Call all other from someone they know, including parents and older siblings. The parents. Speak to the limo driver AND the company. Know the preconsequences of this are sobering. prom party plan and call hosts. If you are the host, do NOT serve alcohol.

Check backpacks and water bottles. Lock up your own liquor. Speak Alcohol + Prescription Drugs = Fatal Mix with your child about your expectations and set consequences. Speak Our teenagers today have different drinking patterns than most with other parents for a unified front. parents. Today’s youth are more likely to drink liquor and distilled spirits over beer, and are more likely to binge drink. They are also more likely Most of all, BE AVAILABLE AT ALL TIMES. Teenagers need to feel that to mix alcohol with medications (prescribed or misused). It is a different they can reach out to you when they are in a risky situation. party world from when their parents were young.

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For up-to-date information on community strategies to address youth substance abuse, follow TYSA on facebook.com/tysa2020. To

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request a parent workshop for your school or group, please contact Adrienne Abbate at 718-226-0256 or adrienne@sipcw.org Provided by Tackling Youth Substance Abuse (TYSA), a coalition of people and organizations who have come together for the sole purpose of decreasing youth substance abuse on Staten Island. It is a dynamic partnership of both private and non-profit organizations; city and state government agencies; philanthropists; parents, teachers and teens, many of whom have been working to combat alcohol and drug abuse for years. Staten Island doctors, pharmacists, law enforcement officials, drug treatment providers hospitals, educators and youth organizations are all working together to help one another, and the whole community, tackle youth substance abuse.

TYSA is supported through the generosity of the Staten Island Foundation and a grant from Office of National Drug Policy Control.

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If you or someone you know needs help with alcohol or substance abuse, please visit siparent.com’s resources tab for a listing of drug and alcohol programs, centers and helplines.

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LIFE IS GRAND!

by Marianna Randazzo

Grandparenting a Child with Autism Ten years ago, grandparents Bob and Suzanne Wright founded Autism Speaks, an organization that conducts awareness and outreach activities aimed at families, governments, and the public. Autism Speaks’ goal is to change the future for all who struggle with an autism spectrum disorder. They have been an inspiration to grandparents everywhere.

While a diagnosis of autism does not lessen or dilute the infinite love we feel for our children’s children, it could be a shock into a world that we may not be familiar with. What is worse, we see our own children struggle with the adjustments. The impairments in language, communication, behavior, and social relationships are often difficult to understand and accept. Usually first diagnosed in early childhood, these symptoms can range from the most severe form, called autistic disorder, to a much milder condition, Asperger's syndrome.

What role do grandparents play? According to a 2010 study by the Interactive Autism Network, grandparents are often the first to suspect a child may have autism and play a major role for children once diagnosed. Many make major adjustments in their lifestyle and finances to become proactive in their grandchildren’s lives.

The following are tips from parents, grandparents, and caregivers for those living with children on the spectrum.

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• Expected the unexpected—be prepared. With a child with autism, you never know when something will throw them into a major meltdown. So try to roll with the punches as best as possible. Use the words or actions that you know work the best in the situation and bring the child back. Try making it a game or injecting humor even when you feel like crying.

• Let it go. As with dealing with all grandchildren, it is not up to us to decide bedtime, rules, eating habits, what is good or not so good for them. If you want a good relationship with the children, respect their choices. If you must, gently offer an opinion but remember, you want to help not cause more stress. Respect boundaries as a grandparent and remember that you are not the child’s primary caregiver. Raising a child with special needs often demands strict adherence to structure and routines. Children with disabilities may have trouble coping with changes.

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• Support your children in their efforts to come to terms with and negotiate this challenging path. Listen, affirm, and avoid offering quick judgments and/or solutions. What parents need most is to be supported and to feel affirmed that they are good parents and they will be able to cope.

• Cherish the cuddly moments; they may not come often but they will in their own way. Make new memories, even a simple walk around the neighborhood will be cherished. Don’t play therapist. Chances are that your grandchild already has a variety of therapists committed to

addressing his various needs. Your grandchild should look forward to time spent with you.

Provide your children with respite opportunities. Offer to watch your exceptional grandchild for a few hours in order to afford your children a chance to unwind and reconnect with each other and/or their other “typical” children. Parents often forfeit their own relationships in order to respond to the full-time demands of raising a child with special needs.

imagine

• Learn to love the quirks. Work with them and use them. Remember to view the disability in perspective. Your grandchild’s diagnosis is only one facet– it does not define the whole child. Your grandchild has a unique personality and capabilities, gifts and weaknesses that are hers alone. Your ability to embrace and accept your grandchild will also do wonders for her self-esteem.

What Your Child Could Accomplish...

• Be reliable and available when possible; however, you do not have to be available 24/7.

It is okay to have boundaries. Grandparents should have their own interests and life; it makes for happier and healthier seniors.

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• Spending time with the rest of the grandchildren is equally important. So often, home life is so centered on the special needs child that siblings get lost in the shuffle.

• If it is all new to you, educate yourself.

There are lectures and family groups that deal with autism. (Check siparent.com/resource.)

Learn the lingo and follow the lead of the parents.

• Once a child is diagnosed, move forward. If the parents accept the diagnosis, questioning or doubting might be very stressful for them.

Be supportive.

• Be careful about relaying information you have read on the Internet or have seen on television shows. A lot of information is controversial or unsound. Stick with respected websites for information.

• Never, say anything that could be construed as placing blame or responsibility on the parents.

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• Don't make rash promises about babysitting or financial support, if you are not in a good physical or financial state. Be accessible, be loving, and be realistic.

By Staten Islander Marianna Randazzo, author, educator, and a newly minted grandmother.

APRIL 2015

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COVER STORY

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utism is a wide spectrum of disorders that overlap among each other yet has distinct characteristics making each case unique, even among siblings. Collectively, they are called Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Any of these disorders can affect both children and adults. Currently, it has NO known cures. They are also genetic in nature.

According to recent data from the CDC, this developmental disorder affects 1 out of every 68 children in the U.S. alone. Though it is known to affect more boys than girls, grouping together a child’s symptoms can be tough. To understand ASD better, here are some basic markers to consider:

Autistic Disorder

Simply referred to as “autism,” it is also recently being described as “mind-blindness” or the lack of Theory of Mind, creating major barriers in communication and socialization. This collection of neurological and developmental disorders is usually diagnosed in the first 3 years of life. A child with autistic disorder engages in repetitive behaviors, appears to have a world of his own, shows little or no interest in others, and has obvious lack of social awareness. A child with autism is often focused on consistent routine with interest transfixed in repetitively odd or peculiar behavior. Almost always, children with autism have communication issues, avoid direct eye contact, and manifests limited attachment to others.

Regressive Autism Spectrum Disorder

Regressive ASD is sometimes referred to as autistic regression or autism with regression, or acquired autistic syndrome and setback-type autism. It usually occurs when a seemingly normal child starts to lose speech and social skills from 15-30 months of age. Amid researches and studies done over the years, however, there is still no definite distinction between autism with- and without regression. Some believe that this type of autism is just an early-onset autism diagnosed at a later date.

Some feature early delays while others are diagnosed after later losses.

This is believed to affect approximately 20-30% of children in the spectrum.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

Called PDD-NOS or atypical personality development, this type of autism refers to the “sub-threshold” condition wherein some, but not all features of ASD or other explicitly identified PDD are identified in a child.

PDD-NOS is a diagnosis which covers cases marking impairment of communication, social interaction, stereotyped behavioral patterns and interest—but does not include autism’s full features or explicitly defined pervasive personality disorder/PDD.Take note that most of those in PDDNOS have less impaired social skills than those in “classical” autism.

Asperger’s Syndrome

Also known simply as Asperger’s or Asperger Disorder, this ASD is usually diagnosed between the ages 2-6. A child with Asperger’s manifests good verbal skills and good cognitive skills but is rather clumsy, socially awkward, and often engages in odd, repetitive behaviors and interests. This is named after Austrian pediatrician, Hans Asperger, who conducted a study on a group of children in 1944.

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

Known as Heller’s syndrome or disintegrative psychosis, this type of ASD is very rare. Children with seemingly normal development suddenly lose motor, social, and language skills around the ages 2 to 4. This severe

regression usually presents a dramatic loss of skills and can develop later than autism does.

Rett Syndrome

Coined after Dr. Andreas Rett’s study, Rett’s Syndrome or Rett’s Disorder is a condition that used to be called cerebroatrophic hyperammonemia. This is an extreme form of ASD characterized by zero verbal skills with 50% not being able to walk. Most of those who have Rett’s have small hands and feet, with notable deceleration of head growth, repetitive stereotypical hand movements, and some 80% experience seizures. Scoliosis, growth failure, and other gastrointestinal disorders are also common for children with Rett’s Syndrome. Almost all of the cases reported under this spectrum occur in girls, but studies reveal that this can also affect boys.

As more and more research is being conducted on Autism Spectrum Disorders, we can only surmise that more types of autism will be identified. Geneticists recently pointed out that the right term to be used is “autisms”(plural) rather than “autism” due to the variety of genetic forms the developmental disorder represents.

When diagnosing Autism, parents should seek professional diagnoses from specially trained professionals, including pediatricians, psychologists, school counselors, and others. Lists can be found at http://livingautismnow.com/directory and http://www.autism-society.org.

By Pamela Bryson-Weaver, author of Living Autism Day by Day: Daily Reflections and Strategies to Give You Hope and Courage. Bryson-Weaver, whose youngest son has autism, is the past president of the Autism Society in New Brunswick. www.livingautismnow.com.

Sources: Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, WebMD, Livestrong and Yale School of Medicine

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GROWING UP ONLINE

ELTINGVILLE LUTHERAN SCHOOL

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Emoji Acronyms, and Emoticons: What Does it all Mean?

If you feel like reading text messages has become an exercise in code breaking, you’re right. Some people still send plain text but many— especially kids—stuff their messages with abbreviations and acronyms, smileys and slang, winking hearts and piles of poo.

All these devices are an attempt to restore some of the richness and fun of face-to-face (FTF) communication. In the absence of body language, facial expression and tone of voice, symbols are a way to convey additional information about thoughts and feelings.

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Kids are especially drawn to these symbols, in part because every generation enjoys having a secret language that baffles their elders. To get a grip on what kids are saying, parents need to know the most common forms of code.

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Acronyms. Take the initial letter of each word in a phrase. Throw in a number that sounds like a word– 4 and 8—or stands for something else.

Acronyms can be silly—ROLF (Rolling on the Floor Laughing), practical— BRB (Be Right Back) or subversive–420 (using marijuana). A very complete list of acronyms including fifty that every parent should know, appears at Netlingo.com.

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Emoticons. Emotion icons, aka smilies, were reportedly invented back in 1982 by a computer scientist who was worried that people weren’t getting the humor or sarcasm behind messages on an online bulletin board. Using the characters on a standard keyboard, people have created thousands of clever combinations that turn into faces if you turn your head sideways. An exhaustive list is available at cool-smileys.com/textemoticons.

Kaomoji. Most smartphones include alternate keyboards which open up even more creative possibilities. Kaomoji, for example, take advantage of the much larger character set needed for Japanese. See examples at japaneseemoticons.net.

Emoji. Loosely translated as picture character, these tiny cartoon-like drawings were unleashed in Japan in 1995. Informally, emoji is often used to refer to any tiny graphic that occupies the space of one character.

Technically, emoji are the 722 characters that have been incorporated into the Unicode keyboard. (The consortium plans to introduce 250 more characters later in 2015, including faces with different skin tones).

Companies are given latitude in interpreting the characters, so an emoji won’t necessarily look the same on Apple, Google, Twitter or Microsoft. (To see all the official characters and how they look in different platforms, check out emojipedia.org.)

Stickers. These graphic elements aren’t associated with the keyboard.

Some are embedded in specific apps and won’t work anywhere else.

Others can be purchased and pasted wherever you please. To avoid adware and other problems, be sure kids download free sticker apps only from trusted sources like the Apple Store or Google Play.

All of these elements enliven text messages. They are popular in part because they are quick. Instead of thumb typing a sentence about feeling sad, your child can insert a weeping emoji. Some observers also feel that emojis in particular soften online communication, extracting the sting from messages that might otherwise seem harsh. For parents, the question isn’t so much whether kids are using code but how. Here are some things to consider:

Discuss ambiguity. Emojis and even acronyms are open to interpretation—and misinterpretation. Pop almost any acronym into acronymfinder.com and you’ll come up with multiple meanings. BYOB, for example, might mean bring your own beer… or bike… or even book. Emojis can also be misunderstood. In Japan, a pile of poo is regarded as good luck though that isn’t necessarily the first thought that springs to mind in other countries. If you post a tiny fist are you threatening to punch someone or offering a congratulatory fist bump? Talk to kids about the risks of sending the wrong message and strategies for repairing miscommunication.

Consider intent. For most kids, adding code to text is simply a way to connect with friends. Still, parents need to be aware that acronyms in particular can be used to camouflage messages about illicit activities including sex and drugs. Children need supervision so you can be sure they are texting only with friends who won’t lead them into situations they aren’t mature enough to handle.

Recognize limits. No matter how many ways you dress them up, text messages won’t do justice to certain kinds of communication such as apologies, condolences or even gratitude. Remind your child that FTF is still the best way to make a heartfelt connection with another person.

Reiterate rules. Texting of any kind should be subject to all the usual rules about online communication. Don’t abuse or harass other people. Don’t talk to people you don’t know in real life. Don’t send sexually explicit messages. Be sure your child understands that texting privileges are contingent on following these rules.

Like every other form of communication, texting creates connections with other people. Being aware of the secret language of texting—and talking about it now and then—creates one more opportunity for parents to help kids develop relationships that are healthy and rewarding as well as fun.

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Appreciate the creativity. Remember rebuses? These charming books had pictures embedded in the text so little children could participate in “reading” before they could decipher text. Emoji capture that playful joy. Like music and painting, the images used in text are an effort to capture ideas and feelings that aren’t easily put into words. Deepen your child’s emotional intelligence by talking about the nuances of emotion in emoji faces.

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• Remediation program, school counselor & meeting room • NJHS Chapter; Student Government • Science, Engineering and Technology Club; • Grade 8 Honors Math • Spanish Grades 3-8 Pre-K • State of the art athletic center with two new gymnasiums and an outdoor soccer field to 8th • Before and after care school program Grade • Full time school nurse

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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.

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PAYING OFF DEBT

>>>

3 WAYS TO PAY FOR THE COST OF HAVING KIDS

aving kids is an amazing, unforgettable experience, but it isn’t cheap. Everyone told you kids would be expensive, but you never quite understood what that meant until you had your own.

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When they’re little, you’ve got the diapers, the formula, the clothes they never stop growing out of and the endless amounts of food. Then they get a little older and there’s daycare and more clothes and toys.

Then there are sports teams and extracurricular activities and college tuition. And have you heard that college tuition is expensive?

You want to provide the best for your kids, but it’s hard to do that when you’re stressed out by money.

So how do you cut back on these costs while making the most of the time you have with your kids?

WITH A BUDGET, A SAVINGS ACCOUNT, AND A LITTLE BIT OF DISCIPLINE, THE COST OF HAVING CHILDREN DOESN’T HAVE TO BE SO HIGH.

Start with a budget. That’s your plan.That’s how you tell your money where to go instead of wondering where it went. Put the diapers, the wipes, the sports uniforms and all the food in the budget. That’s everything. Use a spread sheet, a pencil and paper, or an online tool and put down all your expenses. Your income minus your outgo should equal zero—it’s called a zero-based budget.

If you still don’t have enough, then you’ll need to pull some money from another category, like cable or entertainment. And be sure to include a “miscellaneous” category for stuff like unexpected birthday parties and school trips. It might take you a few months to get your budget right, but once you do, you’ll have a great foundation in place.

Next, let’s start saving. I want you to put a $1,000 emergency fund in place. This is just a small savings account you can quickly access when “life happens”—like when your sixth grader loses a couple of teeth or when your teenager’s car blows out a tire. Later on, once you’re out of debt, you can focus on building a larger emergency fund consisting of three to six months of expenses.

Notice I didn’t mention credit cards. Why? Because credit cards should never be your emergency plan! Don’t make a tough situation worse by going into debt!

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Once you have that in place, then I want you to focus on debt.

Your biggest wealth-building tool is your income. And when all your hard-earned money has the bank’s name on it, then it’s hard to make any progress paying off debt.

Use the debt snowball—pay the minimum on all your debts except the smallest, and pay as much extra as you can on it. Once you have the smallest debt paid off, then move on to the next smallest. Continue until you’re completely out of debt!

The more debt you pay off, the more money you have to spend. That means you can afford more of that “fun stuff’ your kids want, and you’re more equipped to deal with any emergencies that come your way.

Please don’t spend money you don’t have to keep up images.

Remember, the Jones’ are probably broke, no matter what their life looks like on social media.

I want you to make a great life for your kids, and the best way to do that is to budget, save and get out of debt. Once you make those decisions, you’ll be amazed how in control and confident you feel about your finances.

By Rachel Cruze, a seasoned communicator and presenter helping Americans learn the proper ways to handle money and stay out of debt. Her book Smart Money Smart Kids, co-authored with her dad Dave Ramsey, debuted at #1 on the New York Times best-sellers list. Twitter @RachelCruze, www.rachelcruze.com or facebook.com/rachelramseycruze.

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PARENTING

>>>

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CHILD DOESN’T WANT TO GO TO SCHOOL

here are many different reasons why your child doesn’t want to go to school. It starts out gradually, “My stomach hurts,”“I can’t wake up,” and so on. As a parent, it is difficult to monitor and differentiate between real pain vs. imaginary. It is also difficult to get to the bottom of the real reasons why your child doesn’t want to be in school. Here are some suggestions to help you take a look at issues that may be underlying your child’s resistance.

T

If your child is reporting being in pain, keep in mind that it could be emotional just as much as physical.

Your child may not have the emotional vocabulary to express what he or she may be feeling, so they tell you about their stomachache. There may be other kids in the class that make fun of your child and just thinking about LEARN THE REAL REASON YOUR CHILD IS REFUSING TO GO TO SCHOOL. daily exposure to being laughed at or bullied makes your child tighten If the situation involves bullying, it is important to notify the teacher his/her stomach. Likewise, an extremely shy child can experience anxiety and possibly an assistant principal. It is also important to let your child and stress over not having anyone to sit with at lunchtime, manifesting talk about how they are feeling and ask what would be helpful to them itself as a physical pain such as a stomachache. in that situation.

What can you do as a parent? Well, it’s important to establish an open If the child is suffering from a social anxiety, like being in a public family dialogue. Activities such as having dinner together and asking place, a parent may need to notify the school, as well as ask for additional each member of the family their “best and worst” of the day could lead support from a school social worker or school psychologist. to important revelations about what is going on during your child’s day at school. It is also important to have some alone time, maybe right If there are traumas happening within the home, such as domestic before bed, to ask some more questions about school and friends your violence, divorce, or separation, this could also affect your child’s ability child is making. Some things may be difficult to share in front of the to concentrate in class. Make sure you are keeping lines of communiwhole family but may be easier to disclose in one-on-one time. Being cation open and continue to be available to discuss difficult topics. available to your child is key when dealing with social and academic issues connected to school. Every parent should carve out 10 minutes a There are many reasons that lead to a child’s resistance to school. day to ask about their child’s daily activities.

Reach out to the school staff. Remember, they are in the school with your child when you are not; collaboration is key. By continuing to check in Once your children share their issues, it is vital to brainstorm together with your child and remaining available to help intercede with and try to come up with the best solution to lessen your child’s worries problems, you will succeed together as a family. about the situation. If it is shyness, role play with your child on how to start conversations, or remind them how many fun things they know

By Anna Ioffe, LCSW is a social worker who dedicates her time counseling and encourage them to share with their peers.

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children in New York public schools. Ms. Ioffe holds an LCSW, as well as numerous licenses in child and family development.

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Tips • Prod Fun uc t

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O.M.G. I’m a MOM!

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Product Review

Vulli Sophie the Giraffe Teether

Sophie is a teething superstar, boasting over 4,000 positive reviews on Amazon.com! Kids love this lightweight, easy to grasp giraffe toy. Her bumpy head relieves sore gums, she squeaks softly when squeezed, she's made of all-natural rubber and is safe to chew, and her durability guarantees years of fun and teething relief.

Teething Time Few parents avoid the misery associated with the painful infant teething phase. Feeling helpless?

Learn the dos and don’ts of teething: • DO freeze wet washcloths and allow baby to chew away; tie one end in a knot to maximize pressure to gums.

• DO massage baby’s gums with your clean finger.

• DO wipe the drool from your baby’s face often to avoid chafed skin and rashes.

• DO let baby chew on a cold toothbrush to ease discomfort and promote early good hygiene.

• DO offer large chunks of carrot or frozen banana in a mesh baby-safe feeder (if the baby is old enough for solids).

medical experts believe these symptoms are likely not linked to teething.

• DON’T use benzocaine-based teething gels, which can lead to a potentially fatal condition called methemoglobinemia • DON’T put teething rings or toys in the freezer, as they can explode or be too harsh on baby’s gums. They should be refrigerated instead.

• DON’T use amber teething necklaces, as they pose a choking and strangulation risk.

• DON’T give your baby oral homeopathic remedies or medicinal painkillers without consulting your pediatrician first to learn the risks, side effects, and proper dosage for your child.

• DON’T rub whiskey or other alcohol on baby’s gums (no matter what your grandmother says!).

• DO visit your pediatrician if fever or diarrhea persists for more than a day, as

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Neckerchew – The Neckerchew combines the popular dribble bib concept with an attached chewy teether to soothe painful gums. It’s stylish, reversible, absorbent, machine washable, BPA and phthalates free. SRP $18.99 - $23.50. www.cheekychompersus.com.

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DEAR TEACHER

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts

Reversing Letters and Numbers Is Not Necessarily the Sign of a Problem Question: My son who is in kindergarten writes certain letters and numbers backward a lot of the time. He especially confuses the letters "b" and "d." He also will write the numbers 2 and 5 backward. How can we help him write these letters and numbers correctly? – Confused Answer: Relax. It is generally considered normal for children under the age of 7 to reverse "b" and "d," along with some numbers. Time and instruction usually stop these reversals. If not, there is the possibility of the existence of more serious problems.

You can accelerate the correct writing of letters and numbers in several ways. One way is to over teach a letter or number that is frequently reversed before going on to another letter or number.

You can start by making a huge "b" with masking tape on the floor. Your son should walk along the letter while saying its name. The next step can be his tracing the letter on a piece of paper with a finger then a pencil while saying it. Then the child can copy the letter while saying how it is formed.

Each step should be repeated many times over several days.

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The confusion between "b" and "d" can be improved by having your son put his fists together and sticking up his thumbs to show how the letters face. Or you can have him stretch out both hands and use his thumbs to form "L's." Then the backs of his wrists or palms can be labeled appropriately with these letters for additional help to be used when he is writing.

Child’s Shyness – Ways to Overcome Question: My daughter is in middle school and is beginning to hate school. She is an academic superstar; however, her shyness is stopping her from feeling comfortable at school. She feels uncomfortable answering questions in class or participating in class discussions. She also is reluctant to talk to more than a few students in her classes. What can be done to help her overcome her shyness? -- Too Shy Answer: Most people have some degree of shyness. According to Philip Zimbardo, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Stanford University, shyness is a mental attitude that predisposes people to be extremely concerned about the social evaluation of them by others. It involves keeping a very low profile by holding back from initiating actions that might call attention to oneself.

We recommend that you read Professor Zimbardo's book "The Shy Child: Overcoming and Preventing Shyness From Infancy to Adulthood." It has some of the best suggestions that we have seen for helping parents combat shyness in their children. These include: --Do not label your child as shy. Never say: "Don't be shy."

--Encourage talking at home.

--Seek cooperation from teachers in reducing shyness in the classroom.

--Teach your child how to compliment their teachers and peers.

--Teach and display listening skills.

--Compliment the shy child and other family members when possible.

--Find a younger playmate for your child to help the child practice social skills and to be more assertive.

Frequently, gifted children like your daughter suffer from shyness, as they perceive themselves as different from others.

Enrolling her in a gifted program this summer could be helpful. Learning new physical skills also could contribute to building her selfesteem.

Eliminating Recess Is not a Wise Punishment Question: My third grade son does not always get all his work done on time in the classroom. At times, he is apparently restless and does not behave as well as he should.

What happens at least once or twice a week is that he is denied recess for these behaviors. Is this a wise punishment for not completing work or goofing off in the classroom? -- No Recess Answer: Little boys are notorious for being restless. Cooping them up in the classroom as a punishment just isn't smart.

Recess lets all children, especially boys, burn off their energy. In fact, creative teachers find ways to increase children's activity levels in the classroom. It is not surprising that research shows that children act out less frequently when they are more active and have recess.

Not getting his work done is another issue.

Instead of punishing your child, the teacher should be searching for the underlying cause and developing strategies to address it.

Recess even contributes positively to academic performance.

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Talk to your son's teacher about how punishing your child by taking away recess for not getting work done or misbehaving has not been successful. Suggest that more activity such as running errands or getting out supplies might make him less restless, along with having recess every day. Also, be sure to find out what is stopping your child from getting his work done on time. Perhaps there are skills that you could work on improving with him.

Finally, if this teacher is adamant about denying recess to children, find out what the school's policy is on recess. If there is no policy, the parent/teacher organization should work on implementing one. Having recess is not only important for academic and behavioral reasons, it also contributes to helping children develop and sharpen their social skills. Recess has been called the pause that refreshes.

Parents should send questions to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the columnists’ website at www.dearteacher.com.

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HEALTHY LIVING

>>>

5 REASONS KIDS SHOULD PLAY ORGANIZED SPORTS

n the past 30 years, obesity has more than doubled in young children and quadrupled in adolescents, potentially leading to a host of chronic diseases later in life, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

I

Conversely, the CDC reports that regular physical activity provides a long list of physical benefits for children, but that’s not all. Daily exercise also promotes mental and emotional well-being that includes self-esteem.

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“By now, I don’t think anyone is surprised that regular exercise is good for children and inactivity Begin your search with places them at risk for illnesses later www.siparent.com/sports-leagues-organizations in life, but when you take a moment to consider the data in-depth for children who exercise and play organized sports, the details of a child’s future come to life,” says WHILE THE PHYSICAL ASPECT OF PLAYING AN ORGANIZED SPORT CAN PROVIDE MANY Danyel Surrency Jones, president of BENEFITS THERE ARE OTHER GREAT REASONS TO ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO PLAY SPORTS. Power To Give and co-founder of feel that sense of accomplishment in outdoing your last performance at Powerhandz Inc., a company specializing in athletic training products to the gym,” Danyel says. “Kids feel a similar way learning new skills and improve performance in baseball, basketball and football. succeeding in a game, except more so.”

Danyel and her business partner and husband, Darnell Jones, a • Builds better peer relationships: Kids want to fit in, but it’s not former professional basketball player who also co-founded always easy. Organized sports hurdles the high wall of social Powerhandz, want kids in their community and beyond to benefit from awkwardness so many children feel. Team sports such as baseball, the values learned from youth sports. basketball and football demand participants to work together for a common goal, which is a valuable lesson some adults still haven’t “We believe in the power of sports to change a kid’s life for the learned while interacting at work. better,” says Darnell, who lists five significant benefits of youth sports.

• Cultivates a positive attitude: Sports are demanding. Come game time, a young athlete wouldn’t last long with a negative mindset.

“Practice is no cakewalk either,” Darnell says. “As adults, we understand the need to hype ourselves before hitting the gym. The rewarding feeling we get walking out from the gym is similar to what young people feel after a game or tough practice.”

• Offers a sense of accomplishment, confidence and self-esteem: As the CDC noted, simply being physically active builds self-esteem. We are physical beings who are not meant to sit in front of a videogame for several consecutive hours. “Again, if you’re a physically active adult, you

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• More restraint in avoiding risky behavior: Ideally, parents can get their children engaged – in anything that’s productive, really. Bored or disengaged children have a way of getting into trouble. A student is less likely to misbehave in class or break the law if it means getting kicked off the team of a sport they love.

• Greater family attachment and frequent interactions with parents: Famous athletes say it all the time, “Thanks Mom. Thanks for driving me to and from practice, and thanks for showing up at the games.” And that doesn’t even count helping a child with actual practice – playing catch, squaring off one-on-one, etc.

By Danyel Surrency Jones, COO and Co-Founder of Powerhandz Inc., (powerhandz.com)

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INFANT ISSUES

>>>

SOOTHING A COLICKY BABY

here's no magic formula for parenting a newborn.

Parents do their best to prepare for the moment they bring their new son or daughter home for the first time, but it's only through trial and error that most parents learn which childcare techniques work on their children.

T

One condition new parents often face is infant colic. Spells of crying mixed with discomfort and inability to get settled can make for worn-out babies and equally frazzled mothers and fathers.

"Colic" is a term used to describe uncontrollable crying in an otherwise healthy infant. Babies who are younger than five months old and who cry for three or more hours per day during a period of three or more days a week, with such episodes lasting for at least three CARING FOR A COLICKY NEWBORN CAN BE A VERY FRUSTRATING EXPERIENCE, weeks, are classified as having colic.

BUT THANKFULLY A TEMPORARY ONE. "Colic" is a term, not a specific Hold the baby as upright as possible during feedings and burp him disease, and there are no long-term health effects. or her often.

Parents often find that colic arrives when a baby is two or three weeks Avoid potential allergy-inducing foods if you are breastfeeding. old, according to Baby Center. The American Academy of Pediatrics says Consider switching formulas to one with broken down proteins which it is quite common for episodes of colic to occur between 6 p.m. and are easier to digest. midnight, right when parents are looking to wind down themselves.

Roughly one-fifth of all babies will develop colic.

Use white noise, such as a fan, running clothes dryer or another steady, rhythmic sound, to help the baby fall asleep.

Colic may be blamed on gas or sensitivity to milk protein in formula or breastmilk. But colic often occurs because the child's nervous system Some babies like to be held closely and comforted. When you cannot is immature and the baby is unusually sensitive to outside stimulation. hold your baby, try swaddling. Swaddling an infant can help make them The infant cannot self-console, and it could take several weeks or feel calm and secure. Learn the proper method of swaddling, though, as months for him or her to grow accustomed to outside stimuli. improper swaddling (tightly wrapping baby’s legs straight down) may cause damage and lead to hip dysplasia.

Distraught parents may think there's no end in sight when facing an infant with colic. But many cases of colic resolve by the time the child is Rocking motions or riding in the car can soothe some children. three or four months old. In extreme conditions, colic may last until the child is six months old.

A warm bath may help calm a crying baby.

Parents who suspect their child has colic should first rule out any Infants may sense if their parents are tense. So if you are feeling other medical conditions, such as acid reflux, hernia or another illness. If anxious, leave the room or get out of the house and ask a friend or family the child is otherwise healthy, one or more of these methods may help member to sit with the baby for a little while until you can calm down. soothe a colicky baby.

If you suspect gas, gas-relief medications can be administered under the advisement of a pediatrician. Probiotics also may help maintain a natural balance of good bacteria in a baby's digestive tract.

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Colic is a mystery to parents and doctors alike. It can be a trying experience, but one that resolves itself in time.

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GIGI’S WORLD

by Giavanna and Gina Schrecker

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“Jordanna’s World” The other night, my sister, Jordanna, asked my mom why I have a column and she doesn’t. We figured this day would eventually come.

Mom said she told her that it’s simply because I was born first and that this is really about our family – her included. We also promised her that we’d dedicate one of our future columns just to her, so I’d like to take some time this month to sharing a bit about my little sister.

Jordanna is 7 years old and in the second grade. She has mediumlength, brown, curly hair. She’s very helpful and she’s an awesome dancer, especially in Irish step and hip-hop. She’s really good at playing school and teacher, which I think would be a great job for her one day.

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I like to play school with her; she’s a good student. In fact, I’ve actually taught her a lot during our pretend school days– she knew a lot of her multiplication tables before she even got to the first grade! I also taught her nouns and verbs, tips for reading comprehension, and even tough spelling words.

Every so often, we have what we call “Sister Sleepovers,” which are pretty fun. We usually do them in my sister’s room because she has cozy space underneath her loft bed. We set up a fort with a gazillion blankets and watch Netflix movies on my tablet while snacking on popcorn and ice cream.

I’m most thankful for Jordanna when she lets me go first with things, like when we take turns talking about our day at the dinner table.

Sometimes, even though it’s her turn to start, she lets me go anyway. (I think it’s because she is super hungry and just wants to eat, but I appreciate it nonetheless!)

Mom and Dad say that although we each may not realize it fully just yet, we really are each other’s best friends. They say they most love to hear when Jordanna and I laugh and giggle as we’re wrestling or playing games together… it’s like music to their ears.

My parents also go on and on about how heartwarming it is that we take care of each other. I don’t mind making her breakfast in the morning or helping her put her lunch together when Mommy oversleeps. And, when I need something, my sister is the first one to happily help me.

She’s got a really sweet way about her.

So, here you go, Jordanna – a column all about you and how much you mean to me. You’re pretty cool for a little sister. You deserve the attention!

By Gigi Schrecker (with a little help from her mom, Gina LaGuardia-Schrecker, VP of Content Development for CareerCo). Since she was 4 months old, Gigi has been providing S.I. Parent readers with a kids'-eye perspective into life growing up on Staten Island.

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Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11:00 am • $5 • Ages 1-5 PLEASE NOTE: Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. We strongly suggest calling to confirm times, prices, ages, etc. before you attend.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1 Midweek Bird Walk The Conference House 718-984-6046 10:00 am • Free • All ages

Dinosaur Encounter Staten Island Zoo 718-442-3100 10:00 am • Free w/admission • All ages Baby Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 10:30 am • Free • Ages 0-3 Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30 pm • Free • All ages Bookcraft Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 4-8 Tween Activity St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 8-12 Family Storytime Tottenville Library 718.984.0945 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Picture Book Time/ Reading Aloud New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3+ Teen Crafts Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4:30 pm • Free • Teens

THURSDAY, APRIL 2

Light It Up Blue for World Autism Awareness Day 888-288-4762 All day • Free • All ages Toddler Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 A Helluva Choir Noble Maritime Collection 718-447-6490 1:30 pm • Free • All ages CloseKnit Noble Maritime Collection 718-447-6490 2:00 pm • Free • All ages Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30 pm • Free • Grades 6+ Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 5:00 pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Teen Advisory Group Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 6:00 pm • Free • Ages 12-18 The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 718-984-6060 7:30 pm • Free • All ages

FRIDAY, APRIL 3

Baby Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Toddler Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Preschool Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 11:30 am • Free • Ages 3-5 Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3, & 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Read Aloud Fridays Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 3+

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Shape Up NYC: Mind Body Fusion The Conference House 718-984-6046 8:00 am • Free • Adults Trimara Sports SINY Half Marathon Midland Beach Parking Lot www.trimarasports.com 9:30 am • $50 Mike Brennan 5K Harrier Run Clove Lakes Park 212-639-9675 10:00 am • 0-30 • All ages Easter Egg Hunt New Dorp Moravian Church 718.351.0090 11:00 am • $5 • Ages 1-10 Free Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00 am • Free • Grades Pre-K-3 Art Studio SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:00 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 North Mount Loretto State Forest Mount Loretto State Park 718-482-4942 1:00 pm • Free • All ages Family Movies: Hugo New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00 pm • Free • All ages Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:00 pm • Free • All ages Free Math Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00 pm • Free • Grades Pre-K-8

SUNDAY, APRIL 5

Art Studio SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:00 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Diabetes Prevention Group Rossville A.M.E. Zion Church 718-356-0200 1:30 pm • Free • Adults

MONDAY, APRIL 6

Blood Drive Richmond University Medical Center 718-818-1234 7:00 am • Free • Ages 16+

CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Shape Up NYC: Mind Body Fusion The Conference House 718-984-6046 8:00 am • Free • Adults All Join In! Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:00 am • Free • Ages 2-4 Bilingual Birdies St. George Library 718-442-8560 11:00 am • Free • All ages Baby Space Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:45 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Wii Gaming Port Richmond Library 718.442.0158 2:45 pm • Free • Ages 5-11

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Go blue in honor of World Autism Awareness Day! Share your support by switching your outdoor lights to blue bulbs for the day, wear blue clothes or accessories, and share your blue on social media using the hashtag #LIUB. Go to siparent.com/liub for more ways to go blue!

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Picturebook Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-8

Free Math Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30 pm • Free • Grades Pre-K-8

Read Aloud Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 4:00 pm • Free • All ages

Free Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30 pm • Free • Grades Pre-K-3

Poetry Month Celebration Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 5+

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

Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 5:00 pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 5:00 pm • Free • Grades 1-6

“Where the Wild Things Are” Reading Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 4+

TUESDAY, APRIL 7

Blood Drive Richmond University Medical Center 718-818-1234 7:00 am • Free • Ages 16+ Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:00 am • Free Ages 0-1.5 Baby Bounce Port Richmond Public Library 718-442-0158 10:30 am • Free Ages 0-1.5 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11:00 am • $5 • Ages 1-5 Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 718-982-6983 11:00 am • Free • All ages Outdoor Adventures: Snug Harbor Snug Harbor Cultural Center 718-448-2500 11:00 am • Free • All ages Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30 pm • Free • Grades 6+

LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 5:30 pm • Free • All ages

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8

Blood Drive Richmond University Medical Center 718-818-1234 7:00 am • Free • Ages 16+ Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Kids Movie St. George Library 718-442-8560 2:00 pm • Free • All ages Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30 pm • Free • All ages Bookcraft Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 4-8 Kiddie Story Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Family Storytime Tottenville Library

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

718-984-0945 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Picture Book Time/ Reading Aloud New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3+

THURSDAY, APRIL 9

Blood Drive Richmond University Medical Center 718-818-1234 7:00 am • Free • Ages 16+ Preschool Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30 am • Free • Ages 3-4 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11:00 am • $5 • Ages 1-5 Baby & Me

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Library staff and volunteers will be on hand to provide study assistance for children.

Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Outdoor Adventures: Conference House Park The Conference House 718-984-6046 11:00 am • Free • All ages

Toddler Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-2.5

Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 2-10

Toddler Time Tottenville Library 718.984.0945 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

A Helluva Choir Noble Maritime Collection 718-447-6490 1:30 pm • Free • All ages

Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 718.442.0158 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718.984.0945 2:30 pm • Free • Grades 6+

Itty Bitty Play Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 11:00 am • Free • Ages 0-3

Blown Away by Poetry Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 4-12

Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3, & 4:00 pm • Free • All ages

Kiddie Tech Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00 pm • Free Ages 6-11

Read Aloud Fridays Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 3+

Movies South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4:30 pm • Free All ages Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 5:00 pm • Free Ages 5-12 Teen Advisory Group Port Richmond Library 718.442.0158 6:00 pm • Free • Ages 12-18 The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 718-984-6060 7:30 pm • Free • All ages

FRIDAY, APRIL 10

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Preschool Storytime South Beach Library 718-816-5834 10:30 am • Free • Pre-K

Blood Drive Richmond University Medical Center 718-818-1234 7:00 am • Free • Ages 16+

Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30 pm • Free • All ages Peter Pan performance Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 4+

SATURDAY, APRIL 11

Shape Up NYC: Mind Body Fusion The Conference House 718-984-6046 8:00 am • Free • Adults Forest Restoration Workshop High Rock Park 718-667-2165 10:00 am • Free • All ages Free Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00 am • Free • Grades Pre-K-3

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

You are not alone! “We care, we’ve been there.”

STATEN ISLAND SPECIAL EDUCATION PARENT CENTER

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 & directed by parents of children with special needs.

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

www.parenttoparentnyinc.org

INSTRUCTIONAL SPORTS CAMPS at St. Joseph by the Sea High Shool

Registration Forms on www.JosephSea.org (Click ‘Important Links’ on our Homepage) For Further Info Call Richard Bruno, Director of Camps at 718.984.6500 x5316

JULY 13-JULY 16

JULY 27-JULY 30

JULY 20-JULY 23

AUGUST 10-AUGUST 13

Football (Grades 5-10) 9am-12pm Co-Ed Tennis (Grades 5-10) 9am-12pm

Boys Basketball (Grades 5-10) 9:30am-2:30pm Co-Ed LaCrosse (Grades 5-12) 9am-12pm Softball (Grades 5-9) 9am-1pm

Girls Basketball (Grades 5-12) 9:30am-2:30pm Girls Flag Football (Grades 5-10) 9am-12pm

Co-Ed Soccer (Grades 5-12) 9am-1pm Co-Ed Volleyball (Grades 5-10) 9am-12pm

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Kiddie Craft Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 11:15 am • Free • Ages 4-11 Art Studio SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:00 pm • Free • Ages 2-10

Free Math Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00 pm • Free • Grades Pre-K-8

SUNDAY, APRIL 12

Nature Walk Greenbelt Nature Center 718-351-3450 10:30 am • Free • All ages

Saturday Showtime: Night at the Museum: Secret Tomb Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 2:00 pm • Free • All ages

Art Studio SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:00 pm • Free • Ages 2-10

Family Movies: Animal Atlas New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00 pm • Free • All ages

Diabetes Prevention Group Rossville A.M.E. Zion Church 718-356-0200 1:30 pm • Free • Adults

Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:00 pm • Free • All ages

Little Red Riding Hood and The (Not So) Bad Wolf College of Staten Island 718-982-2000 3:00 pm • $18 • All ages

PETER PAN PERFORMANCE Friday, April 10

MONDAY, APRIL 13

Shape Up NYC: Mind Body Fusion The Conference House 718-984-6046 8:00 am • Free • Adults All Join In! Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:00 am • Free Ages 2-4

Great Kills Library 3:30pm Ages 4+ Free 718-984-6670 nypl.org

Enjoy an exciting performance of Peter Pan presented by the Traveling Lantern Theater Company.

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Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11:00 am • Free Ages 1.5-3 Bilingual Birdies St. George Library 718-442-8560 11:00 am • Free

Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Read Aloud Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 5:00 pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 5:00 pm • Free • Grades 1-6

TUESDAY, APRIL 14

Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:00 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby Bounce Port Richmond Public Library 718-442-0158 10:30 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11:00 am • $5 • Ages 1-5 Preschool Fun Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00 am • Free • Ages 3-5 Preschool Storytime Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 11:00 am • Free • Ages 3-5

All ages

Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 718-982-6983 11:00 am • Free • All ages

Baby Space Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:45 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30 pm • Free • Grades 6+

Baby and Me Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Preschool Program New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5

Picturebook Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-8

Teen/Tween Sewing Workshop Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 10+

Little Smarties Learning Center

Now enrolling new students at two convenient locations

Where fun and learning go hand in hand Now accepting ages 8 months–5 years old

• Family Daycare – only 12 children with a minimum of 2 teachers • Babies ages 8 months–24 months with a ratio of 2 children to 1 adult • Highly skilled teachers in early childhood education. CPR and First Aid Certified.

• 3 homemade hot meals + healthy snacks (Most ingredients delivered from Amish Farms) • Outdoor play and field trips • The best comprehensive curriculum After School & for young children Tutoring • Curriculum aligned with for Older Common Core Learning Standards Kids • Program promotes readiness for the available Gifted and Talented Test • Hands-on activities, music, art, sports & more LITTLE SMARTIES LEARNING CENTER ~Two Convenient Locations~ 718.351.6102 347.631.5441 259 Slater Blvd 81 Husson St SI, NY 10305 SI, NY 10305

www.facebook.com/littlesmartiesdc

Michael De Simone Ph.D, LCSW

michaeldesimonetherapy.com

INSTILLING CONFIDENCE, DISCIPLINE, TECHNIQUE AND EXPRESSION WHILE HAVING FUN

Inspirations in Dance Miss Jenn’s Center for Dance and Fitness

★ Ages 2 to Adult

SIGN UP NOW FOR SUMMER DANCE CAMP & CLASSES

Creative Movement, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern, Hip Hop, Pilates and Adult Fitness Classes

Get 10% OFF with this ad.

www.inspirationsindance.com 1652 Richmond Avenue – Minutes from the S.I. Mall Coral Island Shopping Center • Corner of Richmond and Victory

718-494-6280 FRIENDLY AND FAMILY ORIENTED SCHOOL WITH A POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT

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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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Free Math Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30 pm • Free • Grades Pre-K-8 Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Kiddie Game Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 6-11 LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 5:30 pm • Free • All ages

SPRING IS IN THE AIR Want to be included on all of the latest springtime happenings in Staten Island?

Check out siparent.com/spring for Easter Events, Basket Auctions, Springtime crafts and activities, and more!

And don’t forget to join our Family of Friends list for access to exclusive online giveaways, the S.I. Parent E-Shop, and tons of other great stuff! Sign up at siparent.com today!

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 Midweek Bird Walk Clove Lakes Park 212-639-9675 10:00 am • Free • All ages

Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30 pm • Free • All ages Bookcraft Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 4-8 Tween Activity St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 8-12 Kiddie Story Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Family Storytime Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Picture Book Time/ Reading Aloud New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3+

THURSDAY, APRIL 16

Toddler Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11:00 am • $5 • Ages 1-5 Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Paint Day SI Children's Museum

718-273-2060 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 A Helluva Choir Noble Maritime Collection 718-447-6490 1:30 pm • Free • All ages Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30 pm • Free • Grades 6+ Book Buddies Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30 pm • Free • All ages After School Park Rangers New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 5:00 pm • Free • Ages 5-12 The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 718-984-6060 7:30 pm • Free • All ages

FRIDAY, APRIL 17

Toddler Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Preschool Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 11:30 am • Free • Ages 3-5 Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3, & 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 4+ Read Aloud Fridays Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 3+

PRIVATE CANVAS PARTIES

F R E E Full Day UPK

Large Outdoor Play Yard

5 Spacious Classrooms

Created By You PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY STUDIO

Diapers OK • Video Security

Academic Curriculum • Certified Teachers

Preschool • Daycare • Free UPK • Summer Camp Children Ages 2-6 • Open 7am-6:30pm

Seats are Limited Call to schedule a Tour

718 494-7422 • 501 Richmond Hill Rd www.rhccny.com Check us out on www.siparent.com & Facebook

FOR ADULTS 8 or more painters. You pick the date and the painting. $35 per painter.

CHILDREN'S ART CLASSES MIXED MEDIUMS Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30 till 6pm.

Introductory price: $10 per class, per painter.

WE ALSO OFFER: Birthday Parties • Canvas Painting Ladies Night • Field Trips

$30 OFF

birthday parties booked by April 30.

718.979.1841 • Walk Ins Welcome!

59 New Dorp Plaza North • 10306 www.created-by-you.com

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30 pm • Free • All ages

SATURDAY, APRIL 18

Art Studio SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:00 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Spring Bird and Wildflower Walk Wolfe's Pond Park 718-390-8000 1:00 pm • Free • All ages

Shape Up NYC: Mind Body Fusion The Conference House 718-984-6046 8:00 am • Free • Adults

Family Movies: Field Trip Planets New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00 pm • Free • All ages

Jr. Science Club: Make the Connection Staten Island Museum 718-727-1135 10:00 am • $8 • Ages 8-13

Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:00 pm • Free • All ages

Free Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00 am • Free • Grades Pre-K-3

Long Pond Park on a Spring Evening PS 6 718-697-3760 6:00 pm • Free • All ages

SEA SHANTEY SESSION Sunday, April 19

Noble Maritime Collection (Snug Harbor) 2:00pm All ages Free; donations welcome 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!

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Free Math Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00 pm • Free • Grades Pre-K-8

SUNDAY, APRIL 19

Nature Walk Graniteville Quarry Park 718-477-1974 11:00 am • Free All ages Soarin’ Over Staten Island Fresh Kills 718-727-1135 11:00 am • Free All ages Art Studio SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:00 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Crooke’s Point Great Kills Park 718-987-6729 1:00 pm • Free • All ages Diabetes Prevention Group Rossville A.M.E. Zion Church 718-356-0200 1:30 pm • Free • Adults Sea Shantey Sessions Noble Maritime Collection

718-447-6490 2:00 pm • Free • All ages

MONDAY, APRIL 20

Shape Up NYC: Mind Body Fusion The Conference House 718-984-6046 8:00 am • Free • Adults All Join In! Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:00 am • Free • Ages 2-4 Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11:00 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Bilingual Birdies St. George Library 718-442-8560 11:00 am • Free • All ages Baby Space Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:45 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby and Me Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Wii Gaming Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 2:45 pm • Free • Ages 5-11 Picturebook Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-8 Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Read Aloud Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 5:00 pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 5:00 pm • Free • Grades 1-6

Win

Disney LIVE!

Three classic FairyTales Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Tickets

Sunday, April 19 • 3pm IZOD Center East Rutherford, NJ

4 VIP Floor Seats A $350 Value!

Visit www.siparent.com to enter.

St. John’s admits students of any race, color and national or ethnic origin.

Games, Music & Food

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, April 18 from 12-3pm

Inflatables Pony Rides & Petting Zoo

Face Painting

Unlimited Ride Bracelets Available

UPK • PRE-SCHOOL THRU 8TH GRADE

Raffle Baskets & More!

Project-Based Learning Enrichment Classes Small Class Attention Smartboards • Laptops iPads • Title 1 Service Lutheran Schools Outdoor Playground Indoor Gym Association Member Extended Day Program AM & PM Available Christian Values After School Programs • Sports • Music Middle States Accreditation Middle-School Preparation for Over 60 Years all Types of High Schools of Quality Education

Sprin g Festival

www.stjohnslutheransi.org Call For a Tour!

718.761.1858

Saturday, May 2 • 12-4pm 663 Manor Rd • 10314 (Raindate: Sunday, May 3 • 12-4pm)

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TUESDAY, APRIL 21

Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:00 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby Bounce Port Richmond Public Library 718-442-0158 10:30 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11:00 am • $5 • Ages 1-5 Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 718-982-6983 11:00 am • Free • All ages Teen Lounge Tottenville Library

EARTH DAY: OCEAN IN A BOTTLE Wednesday, April 22

Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 3:30pm Ages 5+ Free 718-494-1642 nypl.org

Earth Day! Come and read some stories about the earth and make your own ocean in a bottle! All materials will be provided.

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718-984-0945 2:30 pm • Free • Grades 6+ Free Math Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30 pm • Free • Grades Pre-K-8 Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Anti-Bully Support Workshop Rossville A.M.E. Zion Church 718-356-0200 4:00 pm • Free • All ages LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 5:30 pm • Free • All ages Board of Trustee Meeting Staten Island Community Charter School 347-857-6981 6:30 pm • Free •

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22

Family Storytime Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Presley & Melody: Dr. Seuss Celebration Read to Succeed Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 4+ Picture Book Time/ Reading Aloud New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3+

THURSDAY, APRIL 23

Huge Children’s Consignment Fun Station 718-370-0077 12:00 am • Free • All ages Preschool Time St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:30 am • Free • Ages 3-4 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11:00 am • $5 • Ages 1-5 Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30 pm • Free Ages 2-10

Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 2-10

Board Games South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30 pm • Free All ages

A Helluva Choir Noble Maritime Collection 718-447-6490 1:30 pm • Free • All ages

Earth Day: Ocean in a Bottle Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 5+ Bookcraft Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 4-8 Kiddie Story Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00 pm • Free • All ages

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30 pm • Free • Grades 6+ Book Buddies Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30 pm • Free • All ages Kiddie Tech Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Movies South Beach Library

CALL FOR A VISIT • ON-GOING REGISTRATION

THE VILLAGE PRE-SCHOOL A Multi-Sensory Approach to Learning

Early Bird Special For Camp & Fall Registration VISIT US ON FACEBOOOK AGES 2-6

• Core Curriculum

• Emphasis on Language and Communication Skills

• Over 25 Years Experience

• FLEXIBLE PROGRAM SCHEDULE Monday-Friday Half & Full Days Available • Discount for families With More Than One Sibling • Early Drop Off

BUILDING BLOCKS MONTESSORI SCHOOL at beautiful Silver Lake

718.967.5809 • 76 St. Albans Pl (off Amboy) www.villagepreschoolsi.com • village.preschool@gmail.com Liz Brandefine - Educational Director • Established 1990 Licensed by the Bureau of Day Care

Preschool • Kindergarten Elementary Grades 1st - 5th

Complete Montessori Curriculum • Small Classes Individualized Instruction • Spanish • Yoga Art • Music • Gym • Multi-Cultural Studies

NOW ENROLLING FOR SEPTEMBER CALL FOR A TOUR! Flexible & Extended Hours • Convenient to Ferry NYC Licensed

Quality Education Since 1972

55 Forest Avenue 718-448-2992

www.buildingblocksmontessori.com APRIL 2015

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CALENDAR EVENTS at siparent.com Expanded & Enhanced

718-816-5834 4:30 pm • Free • All ages Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 5:00 pm • Free • Ages 5-12 The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 718-984-6060 7:30 pm • Free • All ages

FRIDAY, APRIL 24

Huge Children’s Consignment Fun Station 718-370-0077 12:00 am • Free • All ages Toddler Time Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

ST. GEORGE DAY Saturday, April 25

Toddler Time Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 10:30 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Itty Bitty Play Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 11:00 am • Free • Ages 0-3 Preschool Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 11:30 am • Free • Ages 3-5 Kidz Cook SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 2, 3, & 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Fun Fridays Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 4+ Read Aloud Fridays Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 3+ Wii Love Gaming Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:30 pm • Free Ages 5-11

Tompkinsville Park 11am-5pm All ages Free 212-639-9675 stgeorgedaysi.org

The Earth Day & Arts Festival is the Island’s largest Earth Day celebration. There will be art set up around the park, music and dancing, a Dragon Feast Food Zone, a Kid Zone, giant puppets and so much more!

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Wii Time South Beach Library 718-816-5834 3:30 pm • Free All ages

SATURDAY, APRIL 25 Huge Children’s Consignment Fun Station

718-370-0077 12:00 am • Free • All ages High Rock Challenge High Rock Park 718-667-2165 8:00 am • All ages Shape Up NYC: Mind Body Fusion The Conference House 718-984-6046 8:00 am • Free • Adults Sensory Story Time St. George Library

718-442-8560 11:00 am • Free • Ages 2-10 St. George Day Tompkinsville Park 212-639-9675 11:00 am • Free • All ages Free Reading Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00 am • Free • Grades Pre-K-3 Kiddie Craft Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 11:15 am • Free • Ages 4-11 Art Studio SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:00 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Nature Walk Long Pond Park 718-768-9036 1:00 pm • Free • All ages Saturday Showtime: Annie Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 2:00 pm • Free • All ages Family Movies: Sonic the Hedgehog New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 2:00 pm • Free • All ages Cinema Saturdays Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 3:00 pm • Free • All ages Free Math Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 11:00 pm • Free • Grades Pre-K-8

SUNDAY, APRIL 26 March of Dimes Walk Staten Island Mall 718-983-6100 8:00 am • Fee • All ages

Art Studio SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:00 pm • Free • Ages 2-10 Nature Walk Mount Loretto State Park 718-482-4942 1:00 pm • Free • All ages

STATEN ISL AND T EN N IS C AM P Mon-Fri • 9am-4pm • Ages 6-17 6 Indoor Air Conditioned Courts 6 Outdoor Courts

Swimming & Other Activities

SI Community Tennis Center at the College of Staten Island

718.982.3355

.

Also Available:

• Leagues/Random Courts • Junior Tennis Program (ages 4 & up • beginner-advanced) • Day~Evening ~Weekends Available • Private or Group Instruction

ST. JOHN VILLA ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP June 29 thru August 14 • 9am-3:45pm • Ages 5-12

• 5 & 3 Day Programs Available (Early drop off and late pick up) • Sibling Discounts • 2 Swimming Pools (Lessons available)

Gift tes ica Cer tifilable Ava

Ear l y by Bir d 2 May 2

• • • • •

Creative Arts and Crafts Mad Science Same Carnival Rides Rates as 2012 Talent Show Interactive Learning Programs

Information, application materials and rates on www.sjva.org or call Mary Ellen at 718.447.4150 x156 57 Cleveland Place • SI, NY10305

Win

Disney LIVE!

Three classic FairyTales

Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs

Tickets

Sun, April 19 • 3pm IZOD Center East Rutherford, NJ

4 VIP Floor Seats A $350 Value! www.siparent.com to enter.

APRIL 2015

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Diabetes Prevention Group Rossville A.M.E. Zion Church 718-356-0200 1:30 pm • Free • Adults Carnegie Hall Performance: Emily Eagen & Friends Snug Harbor Cultural Center 718-448-2500 2:00 pm • Free • All ages The Wizard of Oz Tottenville High School Performance Tottenville High School 718-668-8800 2:30 pm • • All ages The Wizard of Oz St. George performance St. George Theatre 718-442-2900 3:00 pm • $20 • All ages

MONDAY, APRIL 27

Shape Up NYC: Mind Body Fusion The Conference House 718-984-6046 8:00 am • Free • Adults All Join In! Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:00 am • Free • Ages 2-4 Toddler Story Time Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 11:00 am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Baby Space Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 11:45 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby and Me Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 0-1.5

BABY SPACE

Wii Gaming Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 2:45 pm • Free • Ages 5-11

Monday, April 27

Picturebook Time St. George Library

Stapleton Library 11:45am Ages 0-1.5 Free 718-727-0427 nypl.org

Come for playtime, stories, and songs for babies and their caregivers.

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TUESDAY, APRIL 28

Baby Space St. George Library 718-442-8560 10:00 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby Bounce Port Richmond Public Library 718-442-0158 10:30 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11:00 am • $5 • Ages 1-5 Preschool Storytime Richmondtown Library 718-668-0413 11:00 am • Free • Ages 3-5 Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 718-982-6983 11:00 am • Free • All ages

718-442-8560 4:00 pm • Free Ages 3-8

Author Joseph Luzzi, “My Two Italies” Garibaldi-Meucci Museum 718-442-1608 2:00 pm • $10 • All ages

Story Time Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4:00 pm • Free Ages 3-12

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30 pm • Free • Grades 6+

Read Aloud Huguenot Library 718-984-4636 4:00 pm • Free All ages Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 5:00 pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 5:00 pm • Free • Grades 1-6

APRIL 2015

Dyslexia Workshop Institute For Basic Research 718-494-0600 7:00 pm • Free • Adults

Making Sense of Sensory Thursday's Child 718-980-1700 7:00 pm • Free • Adults

Free Math Tutoring New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 3:30 pm • Free • Grades Pre-K-8 Read Aloud South Beach Library 718-816-5834 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Craft Corner Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 718-494-1642 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Kiddie Game Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 6-11 LiteracyINC: Story Hour Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 5:30 pm • Free • All ages

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29 Midweek Bird Walk Wolfe's Pond Park 718-390-8000 10:00 am • Free • All ages

Clay Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30 pm • Free • Ages 2-10

Kiddie Story Time Mariners Harbor Library 212-621-0690 4:00 pm • Free • All ages Family Storytime Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3-12

Teen/Tween Cardmaking Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30 pm • Free • Ages 10+

Picture Book Time/ Reading Aloud New Dorp Library 718-351-2977 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 3+

Bookcraft Stapleton Library 718-727-0427 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 4-8

Teen Crafts Port Richmond Library 718-442-0158 4:30 pm • Free • Teens

Tween Activity St. George Library 718-442-8560 4:00 pm • Free • Ages 8-12

BASKET AUCTIONS Want to help raise money for local schools and maybe win some sweet prizes for yourself too?

Schools all over Staten Island are hosting their annual springtime Basket Auctions to help fund programs for students.

Find an auction near you by visiting siparent.com/basketauctions

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THURSDAY, APRIL 30 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 11:00 am • $5 • Ages 1-5

Baby & Me Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 11:00 am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Paint Day SI Children's Museum 718-273-2060 1:30 pm • Free Ages 2-10 A Helluva Choir Noble Maritime Collection 718-447-6490 1:30 pm • Free All ages

Visit siparent.com for more events and check out our NEWEST DIRECTORIES: • Dance • Party • Photography

Plus, we have tons of resources that put handy phone numbers and websites right at your fingertips!

Teen Lounge Tottenville Library 718-984-0945 2:30 pm • Free • Grades 6+ Book Buddies Great Kills Library 718-984-6670 3:30 pm • Free • All ages Homework Club St. George Library 718-442-8560 5:00 pm • Free • Ages 5-12 The Pipes Are Calling St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 718-984-6060 7:30 pm • Free • All ages

Be sure to bookmark siparent.com in your web browser!

CAN YOUR DENTIST DELIVER THESE SERVICES? • Intravenous and Oral Sedation • Nitrous Oxide “sweet air” • Painless injections with “The Wand.” One of only

• 38 years of experience with over 2,000 hours of continuing education • CPR and emergency management trained staff

four Dentists in the NY area to have this technology • Comfort care cleanings • Doctor’s cell phone number

• Always see the same Doctor

• Drill free dentistry

• One hour hygiene visit devoted to oral health

• 5 year warranty on dental work • State of the art oral cancer screening with Vizilite • Financing available • An overall heath approach with blood pressure and blood sugar testing • Be seen on time!

and comfort • Availability of topical gels for gum comfort during hygiene visits • Understand your dental needs; see it on TV with our intra-oral camera!

• Ask us about the 25 other ways we can help you!

• Evening and weekend hours

If your answer is “no,” you need to call

STATEN ISLAND DENTAL CARE 718-761.5757 Dr. Frederick S. Hecht, D.M.D., P.C. Crown Council Humanitarian Dentist award for overseas dental missionary trips

Special Web Offer! www.AfraidOfTheDentist.com 1520 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314 We are sorry but we are not able to accept Medicaid APRIL 2015

www.siparent.com

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FAMILY NEEDS Party Services Party Smarty 718-556-9475 Entertainment 718.556.9475

Affordable Party Packages 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 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 FREE PHOTO BOOTH

$100 OFF

With any DJ booking, cannot be combined.

With any supreme package, cannot be combined.

We Bring the Fun to You!

www.BerniesFunHouse.com• 718.442.0069

ONLINE ADVERTISING Opportunity for Party Service Businesses...

GET YOUR OWN PERSONAL PARTY PAGE on siparent.com.

2 Options: $199 or $249 For the whole year!!!!

Call before the prices go up!

Call 718.761.4800x7139

88 www.siparent.com APRIL 2015

Games • Carnival Parties

Costume Characters

• Magicians • Face Painting • Clowns • Balloon Artists • D.J.’s •

Featuring DJ Chris Est 1985

(Excluding Sweet Sixteens or Weddings)

c: 718-986-6510 • p: 718-698-2712

PARTY TIME ENTERTAINMENT

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

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

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

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

www.PartyTimeEntertainmentInc.com • 718.667.8998

FAMILY NEEDS Party Services ~WE SET UP & CLEAN UP~

MOBILE SPA

We Travel to Homes, Hotels, Party Halls & School Events for Children’s Parties, Proms, Bachlorette Parties, Sweet 16’s & More!

347-248-9542 dpartyplanning@aol.com

Call for Packages

Directory Online Now At siparent.com APRIL 2015

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FAMILY NEEDS Classifieds Ms. H.’s Place Small Group Tutoring & Enrichment

KAREN L. GOLDMAN, MA, LMHC-BC

Grades 2-5 1-3 Students Per Class

PSYCHOTHERAPIST & BEREAVEMENT SPECIALIST

$25

Per Hour

917.923.9044

151 Woolley Ave • Entrance on Garrison Ave

www.mshsplace.com Staten Island Family Music

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

3 convenient locations.

Morning, afternoon & weekend classes.

www.SIFamilyMusic.com 718.207.1128 Mary Lee Aloia, Director

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

ONLINE ADVERTISING Opportunity for Classified Business Get your business listed on siparent.com!

Tots “R” Us Daycare, Inc. 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

Call 718.761.4800 x7139 or email info@siparent.com

ACCEPTING ADMISSION AT OUR NEW LOCATION ON ST. PAUL'S AVENUE

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

Email: totsrusdaycare@hotmail.com

Certified Private Tutor Dyslexic and Non-Dyslexic Is your child struggling with reading, spelling, writing or comprehension?

COMMON CORE STANDARDS WILSON READING PROGRAM MULTI-SENSORY APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM METHODOLOGY

Carol: 347-215-2417 www.carolvisoky.com

“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

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Interested in Advertising?

Call Today! 718.761.4800 x7139 Be part of the S.I. Parent Family of Advertisers & watch your business grow!

26 years of PROVEN results!

BIRTHDAY CLUB

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

April APRIL 1 Thomas DeSantis Robert Joyce Joseph M. DelliSanti Joshua Falero Christopher Ruggeri DeAndre Niles Isabella Jimenez Stephanie Fetik Alyssa Owens Mike Spaventa Caitlin Corson David Corson Journey Ine Thome APRIL 2 John Galante Alexis Lopez Lauren Lopez Breanna Behan Kristen Mullins Teresa Picciallo Sean Cahill Joseph McDermott Melissa Aldorasi Alyssa Murphy Juliana Romeo Christopher Spotorno Traore Aich Elizabeth McIsaac Gina Siclari Liam O’Brien APRIL 3 Elaine Kristal Colon Owen Turitto Sonny M. Alloway Jr. Dean Grande Michael Cahill Jason Ruggiero Ryan Salazar Ande-Marie Balla Anna Storberg Daniel Hansen Derek Bailey APRIL 4 Racquel Siclari Kelsey Ann Ahr Ashley Suechee Brianna Lorenzo Giana Long Aviana Auleley Sophia Mostovoy Chyanne Jeffrey JZ Auriel Rivers APRIL 5 Madison Policastri Teresa Capretta Tyler N. Kruppa Hersh Ranade Dana Loren Mattera Alyssa Nicole Hughes Bianca Marie Ulloa Alexa Marotta Mariano Fiallo Abby Bocola Jacob Bajek Kingsley Liang Jonathan Perfetto APRIL 6 Kathryn Grieci James Tazzetto

Michael Tesoriero Vincent Notabartolo Michael Tortora Joseph Donato Kristylynn Cahill Jake Anthony Alessi John Caputo Anthony Guadagno Kristen DiGiulio Angelina Vinocur Chyanne Jeffery Cheyenne Raven Williams Damari Royer APRIL 7 Matthew Kelly Monica Saad John Saad Micheal Saad David A. Vasquez Jr. Nicole Vulovich Russell E. Doyle, IV Kyle Guaragno Victor Lopez Alessio Iacono Jennifer Sorrentino Kayleigh Nelson Nicolette Mazella John Butler Zachary Weeks Alyssa Hughes Jaiden DiLorenzo Olivia Cordova Angelo Giuseppe Sorci APRIL 8 Sean Mack Amanda Paige Risi Juianna Masseria Ryan Arazi Brandon Vasta Samantha Vasta Jonathon Yanovsky Gianna Bello Jason Piccolomini Brandon Piccolomini Diamond Hopkins Hannah Sportbert Patrick Casey Daniel Casey Michael Bergstrom Leah Gunther Dante Rose Samantha Weisberg Caleigh McCulloch APRIL 9 Nicolette Jones Frankie Troland Jennifer A. Gutiervez Sabrina Kraker Michael Moyle Zephan Pardee John Mills Ryan Pollio Sabrina Perrotta Taylor DiPietro Robert Ellefsen Summer Rose Donato Hailey Papa APRIL 10 Edward M. Murphy Patricia Ebrahim Kathleen Lee O’Connell

Ashley Kate Farley Sarah Sebastiano Michael Klink Michael Russo John Arambages Antonio Zingaropoli Angelise Maldonado Rihanna Marshall APRIL 11 Andy Murnieks Mark R. Horvath Dillon Thomas Clark Samantha Seblano Dara DePalma Richie Santangelo Christa Louisson Olivia Vallario Antonio Zingaropoli Stephen Yannaco Richard Byer APRIL 12 Daniel Brandon Shostak John Vincent Torres III Anthony Sutera Jaime Pugliese Clarissa Ciccotto Christina Ciccotto Helena Ettu Gavin Avaltroni Reese Kroski Anandah Porter Nora Cruce Zakeia Mohammed APRIL 13 Gianna Hynes James Soren Matthew Rivera Jason Santana, Jr. Stephen Dapello Jillian Ippolito Nicolette Hillery Sophia Hillery Jimmi Love Spaulding APRIL 14 Brittany Piro Kelley A. Sito Isabella Kaminski Cherry Buckley Taylor Terlizzi Gianna Marie Maggio Joseph Jennerich Frank Geosits Julia Feliciano Delmar Hinton APRIL 15 Dominick Abbriano Michael Abbriano Caroline Murray John Vincent Boccanfuso Joshua P. Rodriquez Amber Quick Kristen Sitro Sebastian DeFrancesco Christina DeRossi Jessica Fetik James Basich Ashlyn Gravagna Sebastian Scala Daniel Zapata Liam Cragan

APRIL 16 Regina Branche Jonathan Maxwell Cator Angelica Stringer Heather L Smith Destini M. Harris Sam Seidito Vincent Hetzel Giana Maria Caputo Erin Murphy Brian Hemmer Aryana Latchman Thomas Bland Nicholas Bland Joseph Litrell APRIL 17 Salvatore Candrilli James J Grome III Alissa Cianci Kristen M Auciello Jessica Starek Juliana K. Ohene Anya Kiser Xavier Barrow Andrew Finazzo Christopher Campbell Charles Jackson Christian Bedoya APRIL 18 Dylan Cappiello Sandra Prendergast Maria-Lisa Ceparano Thomas Hopkins Anthony Galante Christopher Evans Ilyssa J. Chapan Giovanni Maranzano Antonio Santoro Stephanie Ferrandino Nicholas Mejia John Gall Juliette Armenia John Gall APRIL 19 Ryan Cottone Christopher Marchetti Justin Pettinato Antonio Morales Robert Brian Birch Elif Ismail Brandon De Lapi Anthony Gargiulo Nicholas LaMorte Maria Vazquez Didier Sauersinger Ryan Callahan Bradley Vaval Anthony Carlsen APRIL 20 Danielle Tripodi Joseph Tripodi Christie E Barnes Lauren Amber Amato Dianne Marie Fallucca Jacqueline Cautela Courtney Miller Danielle Reiss Carlos V. Cortez Alia Soto Michael Shana

Jason Lamantia Alexa Winchel Christopher Brown Colleen Walsh Angelina Walsh APRIL 21 Kimberly Russo Renee Ann Russo Frankie Siclari Sonia Rose Reyes Christian Jensen Christopher John Torres Nicolette D’Alessio Nicholas D. Scheuerman Lauren Albanese Christina Muraca Joseph Tsuei Julianna Orlando Shyanne Swain APRIL 22 Jazmin R. Sepulveda Jennifer M. Nygard Stephen Thomas Phraner Thomas Byrne Frank Daniel Adinolfi Stephen Z. Trombetta Kayla Hughes Michael Luis Ramos Erik Konvise Nicholas DePaulo Madison Boyd Quentin Green-Lind Daniel Dunleavy Gina Barberie Antonio Jude Tizio Deanna Squarciafico Quentin GreenLind APRIL 23 Tiffany Pompa Marvin Centeno Josephine Mariano Gabriella Palmieri Mikayla Hoff Mikayla Logan Justin Selznick Gabriella DiMattina Caitlyn Paige DeMuro Robert Mauro Amanda Singler Vincent Gargiulo Rithika Lingala Kyla Graham APRIL 24 Ryan Manahan Liam Canavan Jasmine Donato Victoria Pagan Nicholas Scott Morra Clare Rose Higgins Anthony Ventrone Christopher Hansen Madison Kravitz Giacomo Maniscalco Kayla Medina Kravtiz April Breanna McGlynn Alyssa Demarest Dovan Maidenberg APRIL 25

Lisa Renee Boynton Amanda Russo Philip DePalma Saleema Josey Thomas Casuccio Maggie Deignan Jillian Frances Cannon Tommy Barnes Vincent Pellegrino Michael Minetello APRIL 26 Michael A. DiMartino Melissa Tronolone RitaMarie Blake Alicia Anne Cohen Andrew C. Anderson Jr. Emilyrose Buxbaum Rita Blake Jessica Mills Erin Hagen Theodore Yanni-Shehata APRIL 27 Allen Burgos Sonja Svindland John P. Gilman Jr. April Sinclair Keyon Faulkner Terrill Littman Jr. Salvatore C. Mosca Lola Antoinette Mosca Vincent Borriello Krystal Valdez Julianna Puca Jessica Christine Klapak Giovanna C. Perricone Jayden Perez Jeremy Castro Melanie Ann Tapia APRIL 28 Alexandria Stringer Daniela De Santis Brianna Rezza Emily Bianco Alyssa Owens Lela Kay Ally Rainbolt Antonia Forte Steven Antoine Williams Jada Sullivan Simisola Adebayo Emma Callahan Ryan Viviani Gabriella Mutate Benjamin Nicholas Rondo Watson APRIL 29 Robert Phelps Stephen Bruno Carmine J. Ambrosino Gianna Ramage Kristen Raskin Brendan Jones Emily Sandford Natasha Watler David Loffe Luke Macwan Liliana Adame Michael Skeans APRIL 30 Nicholas Lufrano

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.

FAMILY NEEDS Professional Directory

DIVORCE ATTORNEY

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.

Hour Phone Service

COUNSELING SERVICES

KAREN L. GOLDMAN

NYS Licensed Psychotherapist Bereavement Specialist

MA, LMHC-BC

For Individuals, Groups, Adults and Children

Attorney at Law

• Play & Art Therapy • Anxiety • Grief & Loss Issues • Relationship Issues • School/Career Issues • Depression

www.krichardspc.com 718.720.1000

1076 Forest Ave • S.I. 347-850-2322

COUNSELING SERVICES

THE THERAPY ZONE

Licensed Clinical Social Work Services

Angela Mullane, LCSW 718-967-0490 • 3710 Richmond Ave (Eltingville) www.thetherapy.zone

COUNSELING FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Social Skills Training, OCD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders, Learn Coping Strategies, Relaxation & Calming Techniques, Private Insurance, CPSE and RSA

1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY

By Appointment • Day & Evening Hours

ORTHODONTICS

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Kim Williams-Jenkins

DIANE MILIO, L.C.S.W.

LCSW-R, MSEd, CRC, CASAC Culturally Competent Compassionate Counseling

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

• 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

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

718.317.5782 47 Lucy Loop • SI, NY 10312

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.

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

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

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

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

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

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

PROMPT TRAINED THERAPISTS SOS FEEDING APPROACH ORTON-GILLINGHAM & WILSON TRAINED THERAPISTS EAROBICS

1076 FOREST AVE. (corner of Manor Rd.)

ART THERAPY Stephanie Socolick, ATR-BC, LCAT NYS Licensed, Board Certified Art Therapist Improves coping and communication skills in an engaging and supportive environment.

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

SPEECH AND LANGUAGE THERAPY ASSOCIATES OF STATEN ISLAND, PLLC

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

Working with children ages 3 & up with Anxiety

Psychotherapy and Art Therapy for ADULTS TOO!

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

PLLC

LISA JIANNETTO, MA, CCC-SLP, DIRECTOR

718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

SPEECH, OT/PT

PreCare Speech Language Pathology PC

QUALITY CARE SPEECH CENTER, INC.

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

WWW.SLPMD.COM 718.259.4001 • 1829 Richmond Rd

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

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

• Private practice with energetic & talented Speech Language Pathologists • Extensive experience Now • Full range of services Offering (diagnostics & evaluations) Homecare • Occupational Therapy • NYS & ASHA Certified

Speech & Language Pathology, P.C.

• Multi-Lingual Therapists • NYC Dept of Ed Contracted Agency for Preschool & School Age Children

WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS. FREE CONSULTATIONS.

SPEECH & OT

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

Family of Friends Members gain access to exclusive contests and giveways!

SPEECH PATHOLOGY

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

NYS Licensed Speech Language Pathologist

EVALUATIONS & THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTION FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS PROMPT Trained Oral Motor & Feeding Therapy Specializing in Fluency ASHA Certified 465 Belfield Ave • Annadale Town North Shore: 1076 Forest Ave

SIGN UP FOR OUR FAMILY OF FRIENDS ON SIPARENT.COM

718-815-6024

ADVERTISER INDEX A Taste of Honey ........................28 American Karate ........................53 Art Lab ..........................................18 Athletic Edge..................................5 Bario’s Pizzeria..............................39 Big Bird’s Playhouse....................65 Boy Scouts of America ..............22 Bricks 4 Kidz ..................................60 Building Blocks Montessori ......81 CareerCo......................................79 Carnegie Hall ..............................19 Casa Belvedere ..........................85 Children at Play ..........................81 Children’s Harbor Montessori................................83 Created By You ..........................77 Dea Music ....................................47 Dr. Lisa Lazzara (Kids Dental) ..63 Dr. Michael D’Anna ......................6 Dr. Michael D Simone ..............75 Dr. Michelle Giumenta ..............67 Dr. Phyllis Merlino ........................52 Ed Perpetua Tennis Academy ....................81 Eden II............................................43 Eltingville Lutheran School ........52 Families on the Move ................46 Fastbreak Basketball ..................41 Fastrackids....................................31

Fidelis Care ..................................59 Fun Station....................................13 Fun Station Day Camp..............12 Genesis Fertility ............................77 Go Health Urgent Care................8 Gingerbread Learning Center......................95 Hampton Inn................................14 Hugs and Kiddies ......................66 Inspirations in Dance ................75 Ian’s Majestic Murals..................83 Island Eye Surgery ......................20 J+J Academy ..............................63 JCC Day Camp ..........................27 JCC Early Childhood Center ..48 JCC Richmond Gymnastics ....55 Kids ‘N Shape ..............................28 Kings Building Supply ................17 LA Dance......................................39 Lifeguard Training ......................40 Little Smarties Daycare ..............75 Marist High School......................44 Master Curry Karate ....................3 Mathnasium ................................32 Mini World Preschool ................63 Music Together of SI....................17 New Dorp Christian Academy................57 Notre Dame Academy ............45

Once Upon A Child....................68 Our Lady Star of the Sea ..........53 Parent to Parent ..........................73 Party Jam Party Centers............71 Pinot’s Palette ..............................75 Plumkinville ..................................23 Pole Position ................................73 Pool Depot ..................................32 Pool Doctor ..................................21 Pouch Day Camp ......................22 Rab’s Country Lanes ..................15 Richmond County Day Camp ..............................11 Richmond County Savings Bank ............................2 Richmond Hill Children’s Center....................77 Richmond University Medical Center ......................49 SI Academy..................................34 SI Academy Camp ....................29 SI Children’s Museum ................24 SI Community Charter School........................30 SI Community Tennis ..................83 SI Dance and Art Center ..........40 SI Day Camp ................................9 SI Dental........................................87 SI Mental Health Society............60

SI Montessori School ..................23 SI Pediatric Dentistry ..................61 SI Skating Pavilion ......................57 SMB Studio Arts ............................44 Serena’s Catering Hall ..............35 Showplace Entertainment ........10 Silhouette Dance Center ..........67 Small World Dental ....................33 Small World Preschool ..............77 St. George Theatre ....Back Cover St. John Villa Academy Camp....................83 St. John’s Lutheran School ........79 St. Joseph by the Sea ................73 St. Joseph Hill Academy............81 St. Paul’s School of Nursing ......71 St. Peter’s Prep ..............................46 Suzanne’s Fashion Corner ........18 Total Dental ..................................35 The Village Preschool ................81 Thursday’s Child ..........................94 Up to Me ......................................23 Victory Gymnastics ....................66 Volunteers of America ..............67 Wagner College External..........30 YMCA ..............................................7 Young People’s Day Camp ....25 Xaverian High School................65

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APRIL 2015

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8 Week Program: $1500 Register Early Before June 1st.

For Only $1300

Gingerbread Pre-K Summer Program Registration I s Going On Now !

A $200 SAVINGS! 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: gingerbread@gingerbreadlctr.com

5 Days - Full Day/Half Day

Not responsible for any typographical errors.

Extended Daycare Hours 7am-7pm Available APRIL 2015

www.siparent.com

95

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