Staten Island Parent Magazine December 2017

december 2017

SOLUTIONS FOR PARENTING IN STATEN ISLAND

holiday giveaway–

14 winners, $1,400 in prizes!

our ulitmate holiday fun guide!

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events & Things to do

Cover sticker sample.indd 1

holiday Recipes and crafts siparent.com

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contents • december 2017 Advertiser Index page 62

Ultimate Holiday Fun Guide!

siparent.com Your link to all the fun!

The Marco family of Rossville celebrating the holiday season

we got hacked!

Follow our new Instagram page @ statenisland_parent No hackers please! LOL.

Birthday Freebies

See which local stores give you a special treat on your birthday. siparent.com/birthday-freebies

Kids Eat Free

Check out the list of Staten Island restaurants offering a day when you can bring the kids to eat for free! siparent.com/kids-eat-free-restaurants

Free Times at NYC Museums

Save big when you time your museum visit to take advantage of free admission offers. siparent.com/free-times-at-nyc-museums

event calendar

Keep up-to-date with fun activities for the kids everyday. siparent.com/events

Bookmark siparent.com

• December TOC.indd 1

You’re going to want to keep this one! Holiday shows, tree & menorah lightings, and breakfast with Santa are just a few of the fun experiences Staten Island families look forward to each year. Check out our mega coverage of what is going on this season, and the only problem you’ll have is how to fit it all in!

37 Tree Farms

32

Breakfast

with Santa

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Holiday Lightings

38

Holiday Gift

Holiday Shows

Giveaway

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Easy Holiday

Goodies

42

Holiday Appetizers

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33 Holiday Events 34 Holiday Fairs 35

Things to Do In &

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Super Kid-Friendly

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44

Holiday Events

Holiday Crafts

at the Library

features 10 18

Comfort Dogs: Helping Students and Staff

Dear Teacher Q & A: Educators Weigh In On Current Topics

20 Early Life Nutrition: The Crucial First 1,000 Days 22

Tech Gifts—for People Who Truly Need Them

24 Sports Gifts for the Holidays

28 Smile! The Elf – Okay, Instagram, is Watching!

48 Why Bedtime Stories Make a Difference

stuff you need fun stuff 6

Community & School News

26

59

Family Classified

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Professional Directory

44 60

Publisher & editor-in-chief Roselle Farina Hecht senior editor/Designer Gerri Friscia junior Editor Jeannine Cintron Art and Production Michelle Yannaco operations & finance Director Linda Bellesi Account Executives Ilene Cohen Janine Mulé Cecilia Saccomagno Jodi Fatto Assistant Nicole Farina

Toy Drives

Around NYC

Staff

16-time AWard Winning Magazine Member of the Parenting Media Association (PMA)

16 Shenandoah Avenue • Suite C Staten Island, NY 10314 Advertising: 718.494.1932 Info@siparent.com

siparent.com Follow us on Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest 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 publisher of this magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or writers.

Birthday Club Birth Announcements Family Calendar Party Needs

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community and school news

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everything you need to know about your community

Send a Letter, Grant a Wish The best way to kick off the Christmas season is with a letter to Santa – and it’s even better when it’s for a great cause.

Now through December 24, bring a letter addressed to Santa to Macy’s and drop it into the big red letterbox or send a letter online at macys.com/believe and for each letter received, Macy’s will donate $1

to Make-A-Wish, up to $1,000,000. On December 8, Macy’s stores nationwide will celebrate National Believe Day with special celebrations and fun. The Believe campaign is based on The New York Sun’s famous “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus” editorial. Make-A-Wish is one of the world’s leading children’s

charities, granting a wish somewhere in the United States every 34 minutes. The wonderful program is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year of making wishes come true for sick children. Visit siparent. com to learn more and get your kids started on their letters.

Emma finishes off her letter to Santa at Macy’s in the Staten Island Mall.

Photo credit: Kathryn Schnell

Kids Night on Broadway Why should grown-ups have all the fun? Kids Night on Broadway lets kids under 18 see a Broadway show for free when accompanied by a full-paying adult. It also includes family-friendly restaurant deals, parking discounts, and activities. This year, Kids Night on Broadway will take place on Tuesday, February 27th. Tickets go on sale on in early December. Be sure to save your appetite! Many Times Square area eateries offer specials for Kids’ Night on Broadway ticket-holders, including free entrees for kids. For a list of participating shows, how to get tickets, and more information, visit siparent.com.

Freezin’ for a Reason!

Miss the beach? Don’t wait until next summer to go back. The 11th annual Staten Island Polar Plunge is set for Sunday, December 3, when participants will brave the icy waters of South Beach to raise money for the athletes of the Special Olympics. Awards will be given to the top fundraisers. Go to sparent.com to link to a registration form or to support a Plunger.

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Important School Dates December 5 Catholic Schools Touring Tuesday december 25-January 1 Winter Recess: schools closed january 2 School resumes

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community and school news

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everything you need to know about your community Holiday Happenings Guide

Rising Runners

’Tis the season to trade out turkeys for tinsel! The holidays are here and we want you to make the most of the season with your family. Go online to see our Holiday Happenings Guide to get up-to-the-minute info on local holiday fairs, Christmas & Hanukkah events, toy drives, seasonal crafts and recipes, holiday TV schedules, our famous annual Gift Guide Giveaway and so much more!

Five New York City students, one from each of New York City’s five boroughs, served as Grand Marshals for the 2017 TCS New York City Marathon recently. The Grand Marshals were all participants in Rising New York Road Runners, a free youth fitness program launched by New York Road Runners at the start of the 2016-2017 school year.

Staten Island’s Very Own Winter Wonderland!

Feeling festive but don’t feel like leaving the Island? Then don’t! This holiday season, Richmond County Bank Ballpark will transform into a larger-than-life Winter Wonderland, complete with ice skating, a 34-vendor holiday market, a nightly light show, Santa’s Workshop, a life-sized working Gingerbread House bakery, an Igloo bar, and nightly live entertainment, rides, games, and experiences for guests of all ages.

The 85,000-square-foot family-friendly event promises an “immersive holiday experience” for patrons and an “interactive and innovative blend of both traditional holiday charm and modern entertainment.” Go to siparent. com to link to their Facebook page and more info, and use the hashtag #winterwonderlandsi to follow all the fun.

‘Way of the Warrior Kid’ Author Inspires Local Kids

Jocko signs copies of his book at Petrides for young Total Fitness Challenge participants.

Photo credit: statenislandusa.com

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It was a motivational moment at the Petrides School recently, when Former Navy SEAL, New York Times bestselling author and leadership instructor Jocko Willink visited the school to meet with the children who participated in the Borough President’s Summer Reading Challenge. Willink spoke to the students who read his book, The Way of the Warrior Kid, took questions, and spent time motivating the kids to be the best they can be. After Willink’s talk, the NYC Parks Department provided fitness activities for the kids.

“It was a thrill to observe how many people came out to see Jocko Willink,” said BP Oddo. “I am a fan of his motivational tactics and believe everybody can benefit from his inspirational words on discipline and personal responsibility.”

The young Rising New York Road Runners are pumped for the race!

Photo credit: tcsnycmarathon.org

Staten Island was represented by Grand Marshal Oluwaseni Johnson, 12, from New World Preparatory Charter School, who said: “Every year, I watch the New York City marathon at home with my dad and sister. I’m inspired by it because it shows me that people will push themselves to do more, even if others think they won’t be able to do it. I really hope I’ll be able to run the TCS New York City marathon one day since I enjoy running. If I run the marathon I would want everyone I know to run the marathon with me so they would be able to push themselves to their limits and be their best selves.

I am inspired by the marathon and its runners because it shows people can accomplish things if they set their mind to it.”

In addition to the Grand Marshals, more than 3,000 young runners of all ages participated in youth running events during race week and on race day, including the Rising New York Road Runners Jamboree.

Holiday Toy & Winter Coat Drives No child should be left without a gift under the tree come Christmas morning. Make sure that those less fortunate get something this year by donating to a local toy drive. You can also donate gently used coats to keep those in need warm when the temps begin to drop. See page 36 for locations.

find links mentioned here on siparent.com Click on the Community & School News tab to download or receive more information on: • Macy’s Believe • Kids Night on Broadway

• Freezin’ for a Reason • Holiday Happenings

• Staten Island Winter Wonderland

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column / ask the doctor

community concerns: mike reilly

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COMFORT DOGS Helping Students and Staff

By Community Education Council 31 President Michael Reilly.

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In 2016, the NYC Department of Education rolled out the Comfort Dog program as part of the Office of Counseling Support Programs. The initial phase included seven schools across the city. In September 2017, the DOE expanded the program by 30 schools. There are six Staten Island schools participating in the program through the recent expansion– P.S. 22, Staten Island Technical HS, SI School of Civic Leadership, The Michael J. Petrides School, I.S. 7, and P.S. 1.

The DOE works closely with each school in the program to adopt a rescue animal that has been evaluated by the North Shore Animal League America. The school and a staff member who adopts the dog are provided with training and resources in the “Mutt-I-Gree” curriculum for free. The curriculum includes lesson plans and strategies to engage students and incorporate the dog into the school’s social-emotional supports.

Comfort dogs contribute to various aspects of a school culture and climate, including for both at-risk and mandated counseling. The dogs become an integral part of a school’s crisis intervention protocols and support de-escalation and bereavement counseling. The dogs have also become a support for teachers and other staff members as well.

“A comfort dog is a counseling support,” said Jaye Murray, Executive Director of the Office of Counseling Support Programs. “They possess the two most important qualities of an effective social worker or counselor--unconditional acceptance and warmth.”

The Comfort Dog program’s innovative approach to social-emotional learning provides students with life skills critical to their success, not only in the classroom but in other aspects of their lives as well. Social-emotional supports can be integrated into classroom teaching and guidance counseling to help students develop effective communication and teamwork, conflict-resolution and problem-solving techniques, and relationship building.

During my recent visit to P.S. 1 in Tottenville to present an Internet Safety – Cyberbullying student assembly, I had the opportunity to meet Banjo, PS 1’s newest family member. Banjo’s presence has helped improve student attendance and reinforced positive outcomes as classes earn a visit from Banjo for good behavior.

Banjo came to visit us during the K-2 Assembly. When he entered the auditorium, I immediately thought the students were going to be distracted and lose focus. I was truly amazed to see that it was quite the opposite. Some students briefly smiled, waved and called to Banjo, but without having to say a word they refocused on our discussion. I was extremely impressed and witnessed first-hand how Banjo has become part of the P.S. 1 family.

Although the benefits are great, there is also some apprehension surrounding the Comfort Dog program. Some families have raised concerns about the students with severe allergies being exposed. These students may be prone to asthma attacks brought on by the allergies to dogs, requiring maintenance medication and nebulizer treatments. The DOE has incorporated some protocols to reduce the impact on students with allergies. These protocols include avoiding student contact and interaction with the comfort dog, as well as adding an air purifier to the student’s classroom if the condition is extreme.

Schools that wish to participate should begin the discussion with their School Leadership Team (SLT), which is comprised of parent and staff members. If the school applies to the DOE and is accepted, they must provide parents the opportunity to opt out in writing of activities and contact with the comfort dog. At the November 6th Community Education Council 31 meeting we discussed these concerns regarding the comfort dog problem and requested that the DOE work to improve community outreach and impact on students with allergies and other health concerns that may be present.

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Dr. Alecia Giovinazzo Board Certified Obsterics and Gynecology

“WishingYou Peace, Joy & Love This Holiday Season”

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feature / dear teacher

important educational questions educators weigh in on current topics

Experienced educators and authors Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts give solid advice about everything schooland education-related.

Read more Q & A @ www.siparent.com/dearteacher

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Dear Teacher.indd 2

Question: Do you have any ideas about toys that can replace phones and tablets while my young children are waiting around at doctor’s appointments or riding in the car? – Game-Minded Answer: Play is so important for young children. At the same time, the amount of time that they can devote to play seems to be coming in shorter and shorter increments of time.

Obviously, there are apps that have games that can be played in a short period of time. This is good because they can be educational in nature.

Nevertheless, it is not deemed to be healthy for children to spend all their free time on phones and tablets.

To get young children away from playing only with electronic games, parents should carry around with them small toys in the car or in toy bags. There are starter sets of Legos that are reasonably priced. There are also many miniature collectibles that allow children to have opportu-

nity for imaginative play. Plus, there are many appealing card games. Many of these toys are close to check-out in toy stores. And for children who can read, there is no substitute for reading books – even on electronic devices.

Parents: New Year’s is the time of year when resolutions are made to increase exercise or lose weight or one of a million things that people feel will help them to improve their lives.

Resolutions focus on change! Every year as society becomes more and more high tech, families are spending less and less time communicating with each other because of absorption with their own electronic devices.

This year parents should make a resolution along with their children to turn off all electronic devices and select one or more of the activities below or one of their own choosing to do at least once a week to focus on building better family face-to-face communication: • Resolve to eat dinner together as a family.

• Resolve to find a hobby to do together as a family.

• Resolve to start a family game night.

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• Resolve to talk together daily about your everyday experiences. Make an effort to find out what happened that was especially enjoyable.

• Resolve to learn a new skill with your children.

• Resolve to attend a cultural event with your children.

• Resolve to start reading the newspaper as a family.

Then have family discussions about world affairs, weather, movies and sports based on what the family has read in the newspaper.

• Resolve to start exercising together whether it is jogging, yoga or tai chi

Question: Some students in my daughter’s elementary school are using digital flashcards. Are they likely to be more helpful than traditional flashcards?

– Old-fashioned Answer: The old-fashioned flashcards are definitely not as smart as the digital ones. The new ones can expose students to reviews at planned intervals. They also repeat the cards based on the ones that students have the most difficulty with frequently. For example, a digital math flashcard would repeat the seven multiplication facts that are causing a student problems more than the easier learned two’s.

Many digital flashcard programs are free and also allow users to create their own quizzes in preparation for tests. Students like the convenience of being able to use these cards whenever they have downtime. Some research shows students using these cards are getting better grades.

In addition, because students love using electronics so much, they are more likely to use digital flashcards more frequently than traditional ones. This is important because it remains important for basic math facts to be mastered so students can answer them in three seconds or less.

Question: It is the same old story this year. My kid’s lunchbox comes back almost every day with a lot of uneaten food.

Besides being wasteful, it’s unhealthy for her not to eat lunch. Is there a solution?

– Lunch Diet Answer: You really need to look carefully into what the real problem is. Could it be that she skips eating much of her lunch because she wants to get out on the playground? If so, you should address this problem with the teacher. At many schools, there is a definite lunch time before the children can play.

You also need to discuss the uneaten food situation with your child. Is it because she does not like the food?

Is it possible that you are giving her too much food? Be sure to find out what she would really like to eat for lunch.

Giving the child a healthy version of her preferred foods could result in an emptier lunchbox. Also, many children like finger foods. Plus, you might try giving her less food if you are giving her more food than she would normally eat at home for lunch.

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Dear Teacher.indd 3

19 11/20/17 4:47 PM

sponsored content We’ve all heard the saying, “You are what you eat,” but scientific research now shows that what a mother eats in the period from preconception through to postnatal— those first 1,000 days of the baby’s life—has such a great impact on the health of the baby that the baby is really what the mother eats!

In basic terms, a mother’s health during this period where the baby is directly dependent on her for nutrition greatly impacts the long-term development and health of her child.

For most well-meaning parents, this knowledge opens a new dimension in their attempts to give their children the best possible start in life. Those first 1,000 days offer a unique window of opportunity to positively impact the long-term health of a child.

What is Early Life Nutrition?

The term “early life nutrition” is used to refer that critical window of opportunity in which you can positively influence a baby’s health through proper nutrition. The right nutrition from preconception, pregnancy, infancy and through to toddlerhood, can have a profound impact on a child’s development and long-term health.

The early stages of life are about rapid growth and development. From the first day of pregnancy until about 2 years of age, all organs and tissues are being formed and educated. Therefore, what the mother does and eats in these first 1,000 days will make a difference for the rest of the child’s life.

early life nutrition: the crucial first 1,000 days Raquel Roxanne Nowak is a certified holistic nutritionist, prenatal wellness expert and founder of Bump2Beyond Wellness. Raquel, a Staten Island mother of two, is the Chapter Leader of the Staten Island Holistic Moms Network. She is passionate about empowering other women to make informed decisions on their journey from bump to beyond. www.bump2beyondwellness.com

Nutritional deficiencies or malnutrition at this stage can cause irreversible damage to children’s brain development and can even put them at increased risk of developing illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancers later in life.

A person’s genetic makeup is said to influence at most 20% of lifelong health, that means that at least 80% of your risk of any disease is influenced by environmental factors, with nutrition and lifestyle being critical players in this complex dynamic.

As a mother, you can ensure that your baby gets the best start in life by ensuring that you are at optimal health at each stage of pregnancy.

Preconception This is the ideal time to focus on your journey to optimal health. To prepare yourself for pregnancy, you should: • Follow a healthy diet.

• Stop smoking and/or consumption of alcohol.

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• Focus on adding foods rich in folate to your diet.

Pregnancy Baby will be depending on you, the only source of nutrition, for all the nutrients needed for optimal growth. It is therefore important that you: • Eat for two. This doesn’t mean eat twice as much, however. It means to focus on getting nutrients that are essential for a growing baby and that help you meet the demands of pregnancy.

• Find out what your ideal weight gain should be based on your pre-pregnancy weight, and try to gain weight slowly and steadily during the duration of pregnancy. Research shows that mothers are twice as likely to gain the right amount of weight during pregnancy if they know how much weight to aim for.

• Continue to monitor any preexisting medical conditions you have.

• Focus on proper nutrition, getting adequate physical activity, and managing stress.

Did you know that taste preferences start in the womb and are influenced by maternal diet? Now is a good time to make healthy choices.

Postpartum New mothers need to replenish their bodies with nutrients that they have lost for the benefit of their new little one. Lactation requires an even higher number of nutrients than pregnancy, so as a nursing mother you should ensure that you: • Consume nutrient-dense foods.

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• Ensure that any existing health conditions are being treated or under control.

• Get to a weight that is healthy and ideal for your body type.

• Breastfeed for as long as possible.

Not all moms are able to breastfeed, but breastfeeding for as long as possible, even if it’s only partial breastfeeding, is protective against a significant number of immune-related diseases such as asthma, diarrhea, and respiratory infections.

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feature / growing up online

tech gifts—for people who truly need them give the gift of technology to families in need

Award-winning columnist and author Carolyn Jabs, M.A. helps parents understand issues our kids are facing in the digital world.

Read more columns @ www.siparent.com/growinguponline

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These days gift-giving holidays are all about gadgets—cellphones, educational toys and smart devices for the home. Families lucky enough to take technology for granted have a big advantage. Not only do they have the fun of giving the latest technogizmos, they are also more comfortable figuring out how things work, navigating virtual spaces and doing the inevitable problem-solving.

Since technology plays such a big part in education as well as adulthood, it would be great if everyone had easy, early access. Instead, we face what’s often been called a digital divide. Families that don’t have ready access to technology often fall behind, creating a bigger gap between haves and have-nots.

During the holidays, when people who have more look for opportunities to share with people who have less, it’s worth thinking beyond warm mittens and turkey dinners. Consider participating in one of these efforts to make the digital divide less of a chasm.

1. Donate money. The simplest way to get technology into the hands of kids who wouldn’t otherwise have it is to donate to well-run organizations.

One Laptop Per Child has an ambitious goal— get a rugged, connected, low-cost computer

into the hands of every child in the world.

The laptops weigh less than a lunchbox and come equipped with simple software that allows children to read, write, record, measure and make music. With partners around the world and in low-income regions of the US, they have already distributed over 2.5 million computers.

The Rural Technology Fund was founded by a tech executive who had limited access to computers when he was growing up in rural Kentucky. His organization helps out-ofthe-way schools get equipment and books that will ignite a “spark” for studying electronics, programming or engineering. The organization also gives scholarships to students from rural communities who hope to pursue careers in technology. (ruraltechfund.org) 2. Adopt a classroom. Public schools are another way to give kids access to technology.

Teachers usually know what would make a difference in their classrooms, and playing Santa can be very rewarding.

Your local school district. Find out if teachers at your child’s school have technology on their wishlists. Or make a gift to your local school

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foundation. If your district is affluent, consider reaching out to a school in a community that has more challenges.

Donors Choose is one of several websites that give teachers a chance to explain how they would use specific pieces of equipment. The site makes it possible to search by location or curriculum. In many cases, a relatively modest donation will put current technology in the hands of teachers eager to use it with their students. (donorschoose.org) 3. Donate Equipment. If family members get tech gifts during the holidays, you may have used equipment to donate. Or share the joy by giving another child a game your child loves.

The Non-Profit Locator helps donors identify local organizations that might need equipment they aren’t using anymore.

Enter a zip code to get a list of local agencies and detailed information about the kinds of equipment they could use. (www.donatetechnology.com) Child’s Play gets video games to children’s hospitals and shelters for kids who have experienced domestic violence. A map on their website shows the organizations in their network.

Each group has an Amazon wishlist which usually features popular video games and systems. The website also includes a helpful guide to “therapeutic games” that help children cope with pain, boredom and anxiety. (childsplaycharity.org) 4. Volunteer. The holidays are also an excellent time to make resolutions about doing good in the new year. Regardless of whether or not you consider yourself a geek, there are ways to help children learn about technology.

Code.org hopes to make computer science a standard part of the curriculum, just like biology or chemistry. The group provides lesson plans for grades K-12 and organizes an annual Hour of Code campaign, which has reached 10% of all students in the world. They actively recruit volunteers to help with the Hour of Code and equip them with a helpful toolkit. (code.org/volunteer/guide.)

Community Corp identifies volunteer opportunities for people who have more technical expertise. Their search engine allows you to find virtual or in-person projects in a variety of areas (communitycorps.org) 5. Set up passive donations. Perhaps the easiest way to support these (and other) charities is registering with a site that makes a microdonation every time you do something simple like searching or shopping online.

Goodsearch is an ordinary search engine powered by Yahoo that makes a tiny donation to a chosen charity each time you search. For families that do a lot of research, the numbers add up. Their sister site, GoodShop, makes it easy to donate a fraction of every of every online purchase to good causes.

Giving Assistant is a coupon marketplace that offers discounts from big retailers like Best Buy, Kohl’s and Bed Bath and Beyond. A percentage of what you save goes to the charity you designate.

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Whatever you decide to do, involve your kids as much as possible. Encouraging them to imagine life without their beloved devices may very well be the gateway to a lifelong habit of empathy and generosity.

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good sports for the holidays Support Your Favorite Athlete with the Perfect Gift Local sportswriter Joe LoVerde coached youth sports on Staten Island for nearly 40 years.

He’s now joined by his son, Mike, a sandlot baseball player on the Island and a senior at Lyndon State College in Vermont, where he’s on the baseball team and majors in Electronic Journalism Arts.

Read more sports advice @ www.siparent.com/goodsports

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Playing organized sports can be a pricey proposition. Between registration, equipment, lessons, camps and clothing, the annual price per child can easily reach $1,000. And since most kids only play organized sports these days as opposed to pick-up games in the neighborhood, chances are you’re incurring these costs.

Did we mention that’s per child?

If you’re looking for a way to make those expenses less painful, consider making some of them part of your child’s holiday gift options.

In our family, once there was more than one youth athlete, there was a need to get creative about being able to afford it. So the kids’ holiday wish lists always included sports equipment.

Athletic shoes are great to give children

during the holidays. Kids’ feet grow rapidly, and it’s not unusual for their shoe sizes to jump substantially between the fall and spring seasons.

If your child is playing on a travel team, chances are the team is ordering special team warmups or T-shirts or jackets or equipment bags — or all of the above.

Putting those items on the holiday gift list makes good sense.

The holiday season is also a great time to get your child his or her pricey equipment.

A new hockey stick or gloves would make fine gifts. So would a baseball bat or glove.

Tennis rackets, golf equipment, lacrosse sticks or pads would be welcome presents as well.

In spite of Ralphie’s disgust when Santa offers to get him “a nice football” in the classic movie “A Christmas Story,” a new

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football, soccer ball, bowling ball or basketball, for that matter, are always welcome.

Practice equipment can also make a suitable gift.

A portable basketball hoop or baseball backstop, a batting tee, hockey net and other piece of training gear can be too expensive to just pick up during the year, but making it a holiday gift can be appropriate. It can even be a shared gift among several siblings.

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Sometimes children want to get lessons during the off-seasons of their sports, or they have a special summer camp in mind that’s expensive. Giving it during the holidays serves more than one purpose.

Exercise equipment or a gym membership can help your older child reach his or her full potential as an athlete. Just make sure he or she knows how to use the equipment or work out correctly.

718.967.2412 • 6795 Hylan Blvd • 10309 (Corner of Page Ave) www.smallworlddental.com

Kids might not like to get clothes for the holidays, but they like clothing items they can wear for practice, like special shorts or socks or dri-fit shirts. Or maybe the holidays would be a good time to get those high-priced replica team jerseys with your child’s favorite player’s name and number on the back. (And if you’re buying a jersey for a Yankee fan, don’t get one with a name on the back. That’s a dead giveaway that it’s not authentic.)

Going to a professional sports event can be very expensive before you even set foot in the arena.

Tickets and parking costs are one thing, but after hitting the snack stand it’s a couple hundred dollars before the day is through. Tickets to a sports event, especially if it’s a special event (like tickets to the NHL Winter Classic that Mike is getting this year) is a fantastic gift.

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Memorabilia from pro teams or your child’s favorite pro player might not be something you’d like to spend money on most days, but as a holiday gift it could make sense.

There are plenty of options for your young athlete, and making these items holiday gifts can take some of the pain out of the high cost of playing and loving sports.

Have a great holiday, everyone!

Sign Up! Staten Island Parent emails will give you access to many more events and opportunities for you and your children. Take advantage of them!

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10 free tokens at fun station Sign up for the Birthday Club on siparent.com’s home page.

DECEMBER 1 Kaitlyn Korenski Nicole Gambella Rafael Torres Sean Giovanniello Jennie Cavallo Anthony Russo Kevin John Bucchieri Aubree Jude Purcell Samantha Diaz Kyle Olivia Norman DECEMBER 2 Westley Paloscio Natalie Cenatiempo Mekhi Johnson-Maura Stephanie Keane Nikki DePetro Kira Rasmussen Christian Rasmussen Alyssa Ann Stetter DECEMBER 3 Dominque Barizone James Edward Tonrey III Sabrina Martin Imani J. Stevenson Joseph Piacenti James Tonrey Ryan Kvetny Nethuli Wickramanayake Kaitlyn CianFrone Sara Attarian DECEMBER 4 Adrian Rzonca Matthew Levy Jocye Jade Van Drost Joseph Lepore Donae Graham Anna Sereno Megan Nagengast Dominick DePaolis Jordyn Savannah Hill DECEMBER 5 Marissa DeBiase Kristen Nicole Pillarella Thomas A. Mahoney Travis Torres John Tuchy Ranell King Tyler McAnuff Scott Hightower Jillian Katz Lucas Canada Alivia D. D’Ascanio Deandra Cruz DECEMBER 6 Douglas Goetz

Jenna Palermo James Hightower Natalie Puletti Dylan Horton Danielle Horton Angela Bunay Joseph Menoni Vincent Gigante Justin Lopez DECEMBER 7 Joshua Van Dusky Steven Marshall Peter Ferrigno Alyssa Hidalgo Timmy Keane Briana Lane Jayden Kranzke Toby Yuen Gianna Buenaventura DECEMBER 8 Frankie Dunn Makayla Murphy Raquan Jenkins Seyid Hakan Sagdic Lisa Foreman Jack Kushner Gabriel Reuben Jillian Katz Michael Russo DECEMBER 9 Faith Iannone Gia Tallegra Destiny Bruzon Tommy Ryan Jake Mannino Kaydence Kennedy Thomas Graber Paige Distefano Chase Bertone Kaydence Lennon Gia Tallegra DECEMBER 10 Stephanie Montemarano George Marage Peter Nicholas Gambino Dante Pascale Michael Migliorisi Christina Daquara Adam Cohen Sabrina Todaro Anaya Passi DECEMBER 11 Kaylan A. Mark Jeremiah E. Kapadia Gabriella La Greca Elizabeth McDonough

Isabella Stein James Spaulding Mando Ramos Samantha Devito Thomas Byrnes Jr Nicole Falanga

Zachary Perskin Joseph Willis Ashley Kelly Elizabeth Liliav Deborah Arianna Morales Deborah Morales

DECEMBER 12 Joshua Paul Birch Victoria Yzaguirre Daniel Yzaguirre Dylan DiGiacomo Vivian Tsuei Maria Rose Martorano Olivia Andruszkow Faith Chambers Samantha Walfish Jaden-Ramen Watson Gabriel Prather

DECEMBER 17 Kierstan Etheridge Taylor Rivera Angelica Beltran Brianna Raucci Thomas Loverdi Michael Mauro Saniyah Salman Sabrina Frascona Sofia Aziz Chassidy Rodriguez Joseph Falanga

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DECEMBER 15 Noelle Mulligan Anthony Johnson Jayson Alfredo Guevara Nicholas Devito Vincent Rozza Michael Raimo Jasmine Burgos Gabrielle Pennachio Walter Broncano Matthew Recca Aniyah Meredith Kayleigh Clark

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Alyssa Gonzalez Maria Chinappi Ava Riccardi Sykla Degratto TJ Chow Abraham Fenton Matthew Gibb TJ Chow Hailie Velez Danielle Harrell Julian Arapi DECEMBER 22 Vanessa Kraker Bryanna Braithwaite Avery Parchment Karissa Noelle Bove Michael Yarbrough Jo-Anna Stabile Ibrahim Hamdallah DECEMBER 23 Nicholas DeMatteo Evan Chrust Antonio Gonzales Makayla Wilcken David Fetik Kevin Kushner James Kushner Alysea Parchment Nicholas Ahlborn Mya Young DECEMBER 24 Kaitlyn Samantha Lutz Chris Mendozza Stephanie Rivera Kyle Mackey Ariana Canessa Matthew Attardo Desirey Madden Giulianna Mary Dolce DECEMBER 25 Kristen Noel Proscia Christina Quirindongo Tiffani Mei Lee Randall Gip Lee Eric Towse Confesora Pacheco Jackson Harrison II DECEMBER 26 Christopher Philips Kelly Wills Louis Virgilio Jr. Nathanael Cameron Tiffani-Lena Bungay Carly Ann Boller Zachary Bellantoni John Thaten

Daniel Soto Jadin Edmonds Ava Rose Sheehan DECEMBER 27 Fjay Noel Pagtakhan Schuyler Lynch Portocarrero Elisabeth Tonrey Tyler Moor Maria Vazquez Jackson Costa DECEMBER 28 Leanna Rose Joseph Doyle-Yearwood Chelsea Debarros Lanaisha L. Miles Matthew Garin Nicole Africano Tyler Moore Olivia Millone Tyler Samuel Haneef Madyun DECEMBER 29 Marie Avenoso Matthew Hargraves Christopher Misiti Merlin Sabu Serena Tesler Zachary Becker Jcologero Messina Nikki Damante Cristina DiMaria Tara Leonard-Lentz Julia Deluca DECEMBER 30 Michael C. DiGaetano Amara LaMassa Jerry Mitchell Iyana Jenkins Angelo John Mirto Sofia Russo Danielle Dono Thomas Dono Andre Jeremiah Cooper Vincent Francis Homan Vincent Homan DECEMBER 31 Christopher Lopez Kevin Yazici Katherine Thompson Camron DiMickens Darrius Ingram Eden Sage Ramos Paul Teplitskiy Efraim Agarunov

Fun Station 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.

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Bounce House Parties Now Available

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LAZER TAG EXTREME BIRTHDAY PARTY 1 hour rides, 1 session of lazer tag, 10 tokens per child, ice cream cake, pizza, soda & chips.

3555 Victory Blvd • 718.370.0077 • Visit us at funstationsi.com december 2017

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feature / the holidays

smile! the elf – okay, instagram – is watching The Picture-Perfect Holiday Season is Within Reach After All

Take a moment to picture your childhood memories of the holidays. They were so carefree and cheery, filled with gifts, guests, and laughs galore. Family members would come and go, always smiling and well-fed, spending hours at the dinner table while trays of delicious food and baked goods would continuously appear throughout the day.

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Fast forward to present day. Now, it’s your turn. Somewhere along the line, you became the grown-up and thus the provider of all those gifts, meals, and assorted laughs. Doesn’t it seem so easy and carefree now, does it?

And whether it’s the Elf, the Mench, or your collection of Instagram and Facebook followers (many of which you may or may not actually know in real life), everyone seems to be watching and judging. Like it or not, the pressure is on to have a picture-perfect holiday season and, of course, post tons of proof.

Take a deep breath and maybe a few sips of wine. Then take a step back and realize it CAN be done. It really is possible to have an enjoyable holiday season without losing your mind in the process. Here’s how.

Get organized. This should be your first order of business. A good friend of mine uses her insane excel skills to map out a master to-do spreadsheet, complete with gift lists, holiday menus, shopping lists, total budget, etc. But you

don’t need Microsoft to know how to make lists – and stick to them.

Speaking of budgets, don’t forget that your gift budget is only part of the total spend for holiday season.

Holiday cards. If you’re planning to send out a fancy card featuring the whole family, pets and all, donning matching outfits and professionally photographed outdoors, well, good luck with that. Um, it’s December? But no worries.

Just prop the kids in front of the tree, hit up an online photo site like Snapfish or Shutterfly, and print at Walgreens or Costco within the hour.

You know your kids are gonna look adorable no matter what kind of card you send!

Gifts. If your family is small, exchanging gifts with a few relatives should be simple. But how many small families do you know in Staten Island? This year, get creative to save yourself money and time. Try a Secret Santa, a single gift exchange, or stick to just buying gifts for the kids. This is an area where Pinterest shines,

11/20/17 5:47 PM

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STATEN ISLAND PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Celebrating 40 Years of Caring for Your Children

Specializing in Dentistry & Orthodontics for Children, Adolescents & Patients with Special Needs INVISALIGN AVAILABLE • DIGITAL X-RAYS Deborah Gries, D.M.D., M.S.

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Look for our Preschool and Daycare Directory in the January 2018 issue!

Also available online at www.siparent.com/preschools-daycare-centers

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so check out siparent.com to see some of the best gift swap ideas we found for you.

For co-workers, neighbors, and neighborhood helpers, a little baking goes a long way. Fill festive holiday tins from the dollar store with homemade pizzelles or rainbow cookies. Or go store bought; it’s the thought that counts! Be sure to make extra for the holiday dessert table.

Food. I’ve got two words for you: Pot Luck. Don’t be afraid to ask for as much help as your guests are willing to offer. Seven different kinds of fish sounds like seven different ways to have a nervous breakdown if no one is lending a hand. Plan your menu as far in advance as possible and shop around for local deals or coupons. If everyone is too busy (or just really bad at cooking), each family could chip in and order catering.

Entertainment. Most families stay entertained just catching up at the holiday table. But if you aim to take the fun a step further, give the kids a reason to look up from their screens and make eye contact with actual people— some of whom they may find out they are related to – by taking to the internet for some family-friendly holiday party ideas. Go to siparent.com for some of our favorites.

Décor. Keep it simple. It doesn’t have to look like Santa’s workshop exploded in your living room. Going overboard on decorations takes up valuable time and space in your home. On the big day, keep the fine china in the closet and opt for disposable dishes and silverware to make cleanup a breeze.

The week before. The week before a holiday is a frenzied one, so don’t go in to holiday overdrive by doing everything at the last minute. Gift wrap as you go, instead of waiting to do it all at once. Assemble toys ahead of time if you have a good hiding spot for them. Make and freeze extra batches of meals in the weeks leading up the big one so that your weeknights are free from cooking. Plan or purchase everyone’s outfits in advance. Do whatever you can to keep yourself from losing it that week.

The important stuff. The holiday memories you make today are your kids’ childhood memories of tomorrow. Try to scale back the stress and just live in the moment. Then, when it’s their turn to be the gown-ups, all you’ll have to do is sit back with the Elf and take in the joy of the season.

See siparent.com for some of our favorite party game ideas, cool DIY gifts and treats, family events, and other suggestions.

We’d love to share your favorites with our Staten Island Parent families, too. Email us at jcintron@siparent.com or message us on Facebook.

11/21/17 10:59 AM

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718-887-4947 • 311 • EarlyStartInc.com Like us on Facebook

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holiday guide

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holiday events & Things to do Christmas Tree, Menorah Lightings & Holiday Lights Conference House Annual Grand Illumination Friday, December 1 • 7pm The Conference House 7455 Hylan Blvd. • 718-984-6046

Annadale Tree Lighting Sunday, December 3 • 5-7pm On Annadale Road next to Richmond County Savings Bank Text SSBID to 313131 for info DJ, train ride for kids, bouncy houses, live performance by Miss Caroline’s Dance Elite, photos with Santa. Holiday discounts at local restaurant or businesses after event.

Christmas in Richmond Town Sunday, December 3 • 11am-7pm Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Avenue • 718-351-1611 Tree Lighting is at 5pm.

18th Annual Memorial Service & Tree Lighting Ceremony Monday, December 4 (Last Names A-L) • 8pm Tuesday, December 5 (Last Names M-Z) • 8pm Old Bermuda Inn 301 Veterans Rd W. 718-948-7600 RSVP surveymonkey.com/r/MemorialTreeLighting

Borough Hall Menorah Lighting Thursday, December 14 • 6:30pm 10 Richmond Terrace • 718-816-2000 Please call venue to confirm dates and times prior to attending as dates and times may change.

The service is designed to honor the memory of those who have gone. The trees are adorned with ornaments selected by the family members. The ornaments serve as a symbol, that they are loved and not forgotten. Please drop off a small, non- breakable ornament prior.

Breakfast & brunch with Santa

Borough Hall Tree Lighting Wednesday, December 6 • 6:30pm 10 Richmond Terrace • 718-816-2000

Troop 2 High Adventure Crew Breakfast With Santa Saturday, December 9 Immanuel Union Church 693 Jewett Avenue Seatings every 30 minutes between 9am-11am $10 per adult • $7 per child All you can eat pancake breakfast while Santa visits with children and families. Bring your own camera for FREE pictures.

4th Annual New Dorp Lane Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Festival Thursday, December 7 • 5-7pm New Dorp Ln bet. New Dorp Plaza & 10th St 718-477-1400 ext 827 Caroling, family photo booth with Santa, trackless train, animals, costume characters & more.

3rd Annual Richmond Road Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Festival Sunday, December 10 • 3-5pm Santander Bank Parking Lot 1630 Richmond Rd. • 718-477-1400 ext 828 Free photos with Santa, trackless train, caroling, free refreshments, raffles and giveaways, and dance demonstrations.

Breakfast & Bowling with Santa Sunday, December 17 • 9am-12pm

If your organization is having a holiday event and would like to be included in our online list, email jcintron@siparent.com

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Rabs Country Lanes 1600 Hylan Blvd. • 718-979-1600 One hour of bowling includes rental shoes, breakfast buffet, and photo with Santa.

photo credit Eddie Anguiano

Brunch With Santa Saturday, December 17 Seatings begin at 11:00 am Grand Oaks County Club 200 Huguenot Avenue For tickets call 718-356-2771 Pics with Santa & free gifts for kids Brunch with Santa and Magician Mike Lane Saturday, Dec 16 • 9am-12pm Sunday, Dec 17 • 9am-12pm Harvest Café 694 New Dorp Ln • 347-857-6888 Take a photo with Santa!

Brunch with Santa at Old Bermuda Inn Sunday, December 3, 10, 17 Starting at 11am 301 Veterans Road West • 718-948-7600 Annual Breakfast with Santa at Applebees Sunday, December 10 • 8:30am-10am Staten Island Mall location 2655 Richmond Ave • 718-370-3761 New Dorp location 430 New Dorp Lane • 718-980-7800 Expressway Plaza location 1451 Richmond Avenue • 718-477-1300 Outerbridge Crossing location 115 Bricktown Way • 718-943-1200 *Proceeds will benefit the GRACE Foundation.

Tickets must be purchased in advance online.

Beastly Breakfast with Santa Saturday, December 16 9:30-11am or 1-2:30pm 614 Broadway • 718-442-3131 x33 Includes hot breakfast or lunch, intimate animal encounters, carousel rides, crafts and activities, gift from Santa and pictures with Santa (bring your camera). Reservations required. Limited seats.

Please call venue to confirm dates and times prior to attending as dates and times may change.

Shows The Nutcracker with Staten Island Ballet Saturday, December 16 • 2-5pm Sunday, December 17 • 2-5pm College of Staten Island 2800 Victory Blvd. • 718-980-0500

Free parking, closer than Lincoln Center!

Holiday Show with Richmond County Orchestra Sunday, December 3 • 3pm St. John’s University Gymnasium 300 Howard Ave. • 718-990-5892 Performances include the New American Youth Ballet performing the “Neopolitan Dance” from Swan Lake, plus highlights from The Nutcracker, excerpts from Italian operas, and a Santa visit.

Richmond Choral Society presents Holiday with Brass Saturday, December 16 • 8pm Church of St. Clare 11 Nelson Avenue • 718-448-3656 Featuring Christmas Cantata, Glory to God, seasonal selections, holiday favorites and more.

The St. George Theatre Christmas Show St. George Theatre • 35 Hyatt St 718-442-2900 Friday, December 8 • 7pm Saturday, December 9 • 3 & 7pm Sunday, December 10 • 3pm & 7pm A high energy, rhinestone-studded series of songs and dances the whole family will enjoy. All ages.

Jacob Marley’s “A Christmas Carol” The Conference House 7455 Hylan Blvd. • 718-984-6046 Thursday – Sunday, December 7-10 Thursday – Sunday, December 14-17 Please call venue to confirm dates and times prior to attending as dates and times may change.

events Winter Wonderland Staten Island November 25 to December 23 Richmond County Bank Ballpark 75 Richmond Terrace hello@winterwonderlandsi.com Rides, games, Elf mini-golf, light show, ice skating, Santa’s workshop.

Sensory Santa Saturday, December 2 • 10am-4pm Person Centered Care Services 150 Granite Ave • 718-370-1088 ext. 250 Enjoy some time with Santa in a noise-free environment. Fun arts and crafts. Please call ahead to schedule appointment for photos.

The Polar Express Pajama Storytime Friday, December 1 • 7pm Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue • 718-982-6983 All aboard! Come in your PJs and join us for a magical evening as we host our annual Storytime

of the beloved classic The Polar Express. Coloring and activities to follow.

Gingerbread House Craft Saturday, December 2 • 9-12pm Home Depot All Staten Island locations • 800-466-3337 Build holiday memories in our hands-on workshop where you and your child can put together a wooden gingerbread house. Once the gingerbread house is built, your child can decorate it with paint and stickers.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Storytime Saturday, December 2 • 11am Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue • 718-982-6983 This classic, heartwarming story about the effects of the Christmas spirit will grow even the coldest and smallest of hearts three sizes. Activities follow.

Merry Music Series at the S.I. Children’s Museum Saturday, December 2 • 3pm Nutcracker with Brighton Ballet Theatre Saturday, December 9 • 2pm & 3pm Navidad Flamenca Sunday, December 10 • 2pm Annabella Gonzalez Dance Theatre Sunday, December 17 • 2pm & 3pm Hanukkah performance and sing along 1000 Richmond Terrace • 718-273-2060 Colonial Christmas Sunday, December 3 • 11am-4pm The Conference House 7455 Hylan Blvd. • 718-984-6046 Tour the decorated Colonial Manor House, enjoy live music and visit with “Father Christmas.”

Annual Wreath Making December 16 • 10am-12pm The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West • 718-967-1976 Create a holiday wreath using fresh greens.

Please RSVP. Santa’s Magic Key Storytime December 23 • 11am Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue • 718-982-6983 In this holiday story, a boy realizes on Christmas Eve that his new house does not have a chimney. When the boy finds a mysterious key, he’ll discover how this key will solve his problem. Activities to follow.

New Year’s Eve (Day) Party Sunday, December 31 • 1-3pm Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace • 718-273-2060 Ring in the New Year at the Children’s Museum!

Celebrate with music, games, crafts, and light refreshments. Count down to 2018! The Museum closes at 3:00 pm.

Please call venue to confirm dates and times prior to attending as dates & times may change.

Visit siparent.com for an updated version of these events. december 2017 www.siparent.com

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holiday guide

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Games, crafts, food, 50/50, raffle baskets, vendors.

fairs Diva’s Night Out Holiday Shopping Friday, December 1 • 7pm-10:30pm Z-Two • 2925 Veterans Rd W • 718-356-6800

Trinity Lutheran TLC Fair Saturday, December 2 • 10am-2pm 309 St. Paul’s Avenue • 718-447-0526 Arts, crafts, music, and more.

Christ Church New Brighton Annual St. Nick’s Fair Saturday, December 2 • 9am-3pm 76 Franklin Ave • 718-727-6100 Lunch, vendors, pics with Santa.

Stapleton UAME Church Holiday Fair Saturday, December 2 • 11am-5pm 49 Tompkins Avenue • 718-273-2857 Raffle baskets, craft table, children’s crafts, food, vendors, pictures with Santa.

The Edible Island Market at the Staten Island Museum Saturday, December 2 • 11am-3pm 1000 Richmond Terrace • 718-727-1135 Local gastronomic specialties and gifts.

Art Lab, Inc. Holiday Fair Saturday, December 2 • 11am-4pm 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-8667 Arts & crafts by local artists and Art Lab faculty and staff.

Island Shores Senior Residence Fair Saturday, December 2 • 12-4pm 1111 Fr Capodanno Blvd.

718-667-0666 Raffle baskets, 50/50, crafts, bake sale, trash & treasure Immanuel Union Church Fair Saturday, December 2 • 9am-3pm 693 Jewett Avenue • 718-448-1584 Santa, holiday gifts, raffle baskets, baked goods, clam chowder, and sandwiches for purchase.

St. Rita School Christmas Fair Saturday, December 2 • 12-6pm Sunday, December 3 • 9am-3pm 30 Wellbrook Avenue • 718-761-2504 Pics with Santa & his elves (you may see Rudolph!)

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Eltingville Lutheran’s Mistletoe Halls Saturday, December 2 • 10am 300 Genesee Avenue • 718-356-7811 Vendors, raffles , gifts & food!

St. Teresa Christmas Fair Saturday, December 2 • 10am-3pm Sunday, December 3 • 12-6pm Saturday, December 9 1634 Victory Blvd. • 718-442-5412 Vendors, photos with Santa, food, raffles: name brand bags, gift certificates & more.

JCC Holiday Fair Sunday, December 3 • 10am-4pm 1466 Manor Road • 347-419-5685 Over 35 vendors selling pocketbooks, jewelry, decor, clothing, makeup & toys.

Farrell Christmas Fair Sunday, December 3 • 10am-5pm 2900 Amboy Road • 718-987-2900 Santa, vendors, crafts, refreshments, live music, raffle tables, prizes, collectibles, 50/50.

255 Ionia Avenue 6-9pm • 718-984-1422 Pics with Santa, vendors, crafts, ceramics & more.

St. Christopher School Christmas Fair Saturday, December 9 15 Lisbon Place 12-6pm • 718-351-0902 Vendors, over 100+ raffles, pictures with Santa, food, games, & a grand prize raffle!

Castleton Hill Christmas Fair Saturday, December 9 1657 Victory Blvd.

10am-4pm • 718-442-5215 Santa visit and more.

New Dorp High School Holiday Fair Saturday, December 9 465 New Dorp Lane 9am-4pm • 718-667-8686 Raffles, face-painting, Santa Moore Catholic High School Sunday, December 10 100 Merrill Avenue Time TBA • 718-761-9200 Please call venue to confirm dates and times prior to attending as dates and times may change.

St. Ann’s Holiday Fair Sunday, December 3 • 9am-4pm 125 Cromwell Avenue • 718-351-4343 Christmas in Richmond Town Sunday, December 3 • 11am-7pm 441 Clarke Avenue • 718-351-1611 Gifts, decor, ornaments, crafts, baked goods and Mrs. Claus’ Attic Treasures.

P.S. 37R Holiday Fair Monday, December 4 & Tuesday, December 5 15 Fairfield Street 6-9pm • 718-984-9800 Vendors, holiday novelties, raffle baskets, pics with Santa.

P.S. 58 Holiday Fair Wednesday, December 6 77 Marsh Avenue 6-9pm • 718-761-2155 Hot chocolate and dessert, Polar Express ride, pics with Santa, vendors.

P.S. 36 Holiday Fair Friday, December 8

Enter our Holiday Gift Giveaway. See page 38 and 39 for prizes! december 2017 www.siparent.com

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things to do in and around new york city The Holiday Train Show Now until January 15 New York Botanical Garden 2900 Southern Boulevard • Bronx 718-817-8700 Model trains zip through a display of 150 New York City landmarks re-created with bark, leaves, and other natural materials on nearly a half-mile of track.

Visit the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center Now until January 7 45 Rockefeller Plaza • Manhattan 212-332-6868 The iconic Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center typically stands at a towering 80 feet high (or higher) and the tree lighting serves as the unofficial start of the holiday season.

See the Dyker Heights Lights Throughout December Between 11th & 13th Avenues from 83rd St and up • Brooklyn The Dyker Heights section of Brooklyn is known for its over-the-top holiday displays, attracting visitors from all over to its traffic-halting Christmas scenes and lights.

Saint Patrick’s Cathedral Throughout December 14 East 51st Street • Manhattan 212-753-2261 The gothic-style church is stunning all year long, but it is especially magnificent in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Visit the World’s Largest Menorahs December 12 through December 20 Grand Army Plaza at Fifth Avenue & West 59th St. • Manhattan Grand Army Plaza at Flatbush Avenue & Vanderbilt Avenue • Brooklyn New York City can stake its claim to not one, but two of the “World’s Largest Menorahs,” each standing at a whopping 32 feet high.

Macy’s Santaland Now until December 24.

Macy’s Herald Square at 151 W 34th Street Manhattan • 212-695-4400 Grand Army Plaza at Flatbush Avenue & Vanderbilt Avenue • Brooklyn See the 13,000 square foot Christmas Village filled with cheerful holiday scenes and magical

characters as you wait to take a photo with Santa.

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular Now until January 1 Radio City Music Hall 260 Avenue of the Americas • Manhattan 1-866-858-0007 This famed annual holiday show features everything from dancing Santas to a live reenactment of the very first Christmas.

Laurie Berkner Holiday Concert Sunday, December 3, 12 & 4pm iPlay America in at 110 Schanck Road Freehold, New Jersey 212-222-6834 A live holiday concert performance

by The Laurie Berkner Band playing their most popular hits and song selections from the Christmas album.

Holiday Tea with American Girl Fridays in December (until Christmas) American Girl Place at 75 Rockefeller Plaza (new location) • Manhattan • 877-247-5223 Enjoy a holiday-themed high tea with your child’s favorite doll featuring crafts and lunch.

Elf the Musical December 13 through December 29 Madison Square Garden at 4 Penn Plaza Manhattan 1-800-BROADWAY See Buddy the Elf live in this musical adaptation of the modern-day Christmas classic.

Latkepalooza December 10, 10am-12pm Museum of Jewish Heritage 36 Battery Park Place • Manhattan 646-437-4202 Join this a one-of-a kind Festival of Lights celebration featuring food, music, and hands-on activities for children ages 3 to 10.

Menorah Mania December 10, 11am-1pm Museum at Eldridge Street at 12 Eldridge Street • Manhattan 212-219-0888 This special exhibit featuring dozens of menorahs of all shapes and sizes plus a scavenger hunt, a Chanukah sing-along, crafts, edible dreidels and more.

Christmas Night of Lights at Coney Island Daily until January 1 (including holidays).

1208 Surf Avenue • Brooklyn

718-373-5862 Ride along in your car through a two-and-ahalf-mile long show of over a million lights synchronized to holiday music and larger than life trees, snowflakes, dancing candy canes and tunnels of lights.

Santa Rescue at NYC Fire Museum Sunday, December 3 at 11:30am sharp 278 Spring Street • Brooklyn 212-691-1303 Watch FDNY firefighters rescue Santa from the roof of the Museum, after which he will sit with children and pose for photos.

A Very Furry Christmas at Sesame Place November 18 to December 31 100 Sesame Road • Langhorne, PA 215-702-ELMO Hang with the whole Sesame crew for a holidaythemed version of the park featuring shows, lights, rides and more.

Holiday Lights Spectacular at Turtle Back Zoo Weekends until mid-December, then daily until January 2 560 Northfield Avenue • West Orange, NJ 973-731-5800 See over 50 winter and animal characters under the sparkling lights decorating the zoo.

Jenkinson’s Sea of Lights Festival December 15, 16, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 from 6-9pm 300 Ocean Avenue • Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 732-892-0600 See the boardwalk light up and join in Winter Wonderland activities, games, pictures with Santa crafts, holiday shopping and more. iPlay America Holiday Fun Saturdays & Sundays until December 23 110 Schanck Road • Freehold, NJ 732-577-8200 Indoor amusement parks are hot spots for chilly winter weather, and you can meet Santa before you venture off to play some skee ball or laser tag.

Peddler’s Village Christmas Festival Saturday, December 2 • 10 am to 6 pm Sunday, December 3 • 10 am to 6 pm

Holiday recipes on page 42 and Holiday crafts on page 44. december 2017 www.siparent.com

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holiday guide

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Holiday Shopping Throughout December What’s the holiday season without a little shopping? Charming holiday fairs and markets dot the busiest corners of the city throughout December where shoppers can find everything from handmade ornaments and jewelry to antique gifts for friends. In Manhattan, you’ll find holiday markets in Union Square, Grand Central Terminal, Bryant Park, and Columbus Circle.

Routes 202 & 263 • Bucks County, PA 215-794-4000 This Victorian Village is a charming winter wonderland throughout the holiday season; their Christmas Festival features a Santa Parade, the annual Gingerbread House Competition, holiday shopping, live entertainment, and a million twinkling lights.

Christmas Ice Caverns Daily until Christmas Jodi’s Silk Florist 437 US Highway No 46 West • Fairfield, NJ 973-808-5639 This walk-through animated display is one of North Jersey’s most popular Christmas traditions. See dozens of life-sized storybook displays and characters, and shop for some Christmas gifts.

Please call venue to confirm dates and times prior to attending as dates and times may change.

library events

NYC Window Shopping Throughout December Primarily Fifth Avenue Manhattan Window shopping in New York City at Christmas is the best kind of shopping-- you won’t spend a dime strolling down Fifth Avenue and taking in one dazzling display after another. Ok, no one “strolls” in New York, but the store windows are still worth checking out, especially Lord & Taylor, Barney’s, Macy’s, Saks, Bloomingdales, and Bergdorf Goodman’s.

Winter Village at Bryant Park Daily until March 4, 2018 476 5th Ave, Manhattan (917) 438-5166 Over 150 shops and a free, 17,000 square-foot ice skating rink combine for a must-see attraction in Bryant Park throughout the holiday season (and well into the following cold-weather months).

Origami Holiday Tree November 20 to January 7 American Museum of Natural History Central Park West at 79th Street • Manhattan 212-769-5100 Once you head up to see the dinos, go check out the traditional Origami Holiday Tree on the fourth floor. It’s decorated with handmade origami models inspired by items in the permanent halls, current exhibitions, and Museum collections.

Kwanzaa 2017 Saturday, December 30, 12-5pm AMNH at Central Park West at 79th Street Manhattan • 212-769-5100 The program will feature a live musical performance, an overview of the Kwanzaa principles, and a marketplace that showcases local artisans from the African-American community.

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Make & Take: Holiday Edition December 2 • 1pm St. George Library 5 Central Avenue • 718-442-8560 Get started on getting ready for the holidays with us! Drop by and make a holiday cards, wrapping paper, snowflakes, and more!

Toddler Craft: Santa’s North Pole Workshop December 5 • 11am Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane • 718-984-6670 Help Santa prepare for the holidays by constructing his North Pole Workshop out of cardstock and stickers. For ages 1 1/2 - 3 and caregivers. Pre-registration is recommended.

Silly Season Celebration December 5 • 11:30am Dongan Hills Library 1617 Richmond Road • 718 351-1444 Celebrate the joy of the season with Mr. Patrick, his guitar and his silly puppet friends as we sing and dance to the holiday classics. For babies to 7 years old.

Winter Holiday Puppet Playtime December 5 • 4pm Richmondtown Library 200 Clarke Avenue • 718 668-0413 A holiday-themed version of the above show, perfect for babies 0 to 6 years old with parent/ caregiver. Presented by Nicola McEldowney The Music, Bubble, and Comedy Show: Winter Wonderland December 5 • 4pm Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library 2550 Victory Boulevard • 718 494-1642 The Music, Bubble And Comedy Show: Winter Wonderland! is a snowy, musical experience for children and families. The show engages children with comedy, songs, bubbles, music technology and children’s stories which foster literacy, storytelling and a lifelong love of your local library!

Afterschool Craft: Foam Gingerbread People December 8 • 3pm Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane • 718-984-6670 Decorate your foam gingerbread man (or woman) and get them ready for this festive season.

The Gingerbread Man December 11 • 4pm Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road • 718 984-0945 The classic story of a little running cookie - with a holiday twist. Sing along as the Gingerbread Man outwits and outruns various hungry animals - and figure out what he really wants for Christmas.

Ages 2-6.

Music for Aardvarks: Time of the Season December 12 • 3:30pm Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue • 718-984-4636 Join in a musical extravaganza, complete with original songs about the season’s holidays, weather, activities and more. Musical instruments, finger play and movement will ensure fun all around! Be ready to dance, sing and make some awesome musical memories! (must register) Silly Season Celebration December 12 • 11:30am Dongan Hills Library 1617 Richmond Road • 718 351-1444 Celebrate the joy of the season with Mr. Patrick, his guitar and his silly puppet friends as we sing and dance to the holiday classics. Best for babies to 7 years old.

Snowman & Santa Holiday Craft Party December 14 • 4pm Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road • 718-984-0945 Join in Santa & Snowman stories, crafts & fun! For ages 4 and up. Pre-registration begins one week in advance. Space is limited.

Family Movie Night: The Nightmare Before Christmas December 14 • 4:30pm South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road • 718-816-5834 Movie night! Jack Skellington, king of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas Town, but his attempts to bring Christmas to his home causes confusion.

River Rose and the Magical Christmas Storytime December 16 • 11am Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue • 718-982-6983 It’s Christmas Eve and River Rose wants to stay up all night to hand-deliver a note to Santa, but she and her dog fall asleep only to find they’ve been

Holiday TV schedule on siparent.com/holidaytv december 2017 www.siparent.com

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swept off on another magical adventure. Activities to follow.

The Music, Bubble, and Comedy Show: Winter Wonderland December 20 • 5pm Stapleton Library 132 Canal Street • 718 727-0427 The Music, Bubble And Comedy Show: Winter Wonderland! is a snowy, musical experience for children and families. The show engages children with comedy, songs, bubbles, music technology and children’s stories which foster literacy, storytelling and a lifelong love of your local library!

Holiday Crafts to the Max December 21 • 3pm Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue • 718-984-4636 Holiday crafting fun.

Watercolor Holiday Lights December 22 • 3:30pm South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road • 718-816-5834 Holiday watercolor fun.

Movie Event: Elf December 26 • 4pm Dongan Hills Library 1617 Richmond Road • 718 351-1444 A human raised by elves searches for his birth father.

Habiak Farms 315 Deans Rhode Hall Rd. South Brunswick Township, NJ 08810 732-287-2737

Woodsedge Tree Farm 118 Beechwood Road • Belvidere, NJ 07823 908-763-9920

Keris Tree Farm 848 Route 524 • Allentown, NJ 08501 609-259-0720

Wyckoff’s Christmas Tree Farm 249 County Road 519 • Belvidere, NJ 07823 908-475-4508

Lantier Tree Farm 163 Dey Grove Road • Englishtown, NJ 08831 732-446-9799

toy drives

Staten Island Parent wishes you and your family a healthy and happy holiday season!

Winter Holiday Extravaganza December 28 • 4pm New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane • 718-351-2977 Winter activities and fun, New Year’s Eve Celebration December 29 • 3pm South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road • 718-816-5834 New Years activities and fun.

Please call venue to confirm dates and times prior to attending as dates and times may change.

tree farms Ann Allen Tree Farm & Shop 114 Daum Road • Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-786-9277 Barclay’s Christmas Tree Farm 35 Orchardside Drive • Cranbury, NJ 08512 609-799-1855 Bullock Farms 83 Emleys Hill Road • Cream Ridge, NJ 08514 609-758-8726 Cherryville Farms 352 Quakertown Road • Pittstown, NJ 08867 908-806-4580 Giamarese Farm 155 Fresh Ponds Rd • East Brunswick, NJ 08816 732-821-9494

Lazy Susan Tree Farm 184 Sharon Road • Robbinsville, NJ 08691 609-208-0784 McLaughlin Tree Farm 1312 Old York Road • Robbinsville, NJ 08691 609-259-8122 Meadow View Farms 60 Birdsall Road • Farmingdale, NJ 07727 732-938-7181 Patterson Greenhouses 636 Adelphia Road • Freehold, NJ 07728 732-431-5271 Simonson Farms 118-260 Dey Road • Cranbury, NJ 08560 609-730-1110 The Evergreen Farm 4 Bass Lane • Lebanon, NJ 08833 908-236-9550

23rd Annual Richard Gardner Jr. Memorial Toy Drive Collecting new, unwrapped toys. Also accepting monetary donations.

Collection location: Please send donations to Richard Gardner Jr Memorial Fund, 37 Windom Ave., Staten Island, NY 10305.

Contact: If you would like to make a donation please call (718) 981-2016 or (718) 273 9386 or email toys@rgtoydrive.org.

Event: Annual Toy Drive Event night will be December 2 at 9pm at Castleton Corners Pub. Island to Island Toy Drive Collecting unwrapped toys for kids in Puerto Rico affected by Hurricane Maria until December 14.

Collection locations: Gateway Church • 200 Boscombe Ave • Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm & Sunday 8:30am-1pm Atmosphere Essentials • 7481 Amboy Rd. Assemblyman Ron Castorina, Jr. • 7001 Amboy Rd., Suite 202E Toys for Tots Accepting brand new, unopened, unwrapped toys or monetary donations for less fortunate children in the community until December 8 (may vary by location).

Collection locations: Toys R Us, Babies R Us, Cabo, Kids Dental, Staten Island Diner, Richmond County Savings Bank, Five Below, Clark’s House of Flowers, Comprehensive Pediatrics, Pinot’s Palette, Standard Burger and Walgreens. You can also donate at toysfortots.org.

NY Cares Coat Drive Accepting clean, new or gently used jackets and coats until December 29.

Locations: 120 Precinct • 78 Richmond Terrace 121 Precinct • 970 Richmond Avenue 122 Precinct • 2320 Hylan Blvd.

123 Precinct • 116 Main Street PSA 1A • 154 Lamport Blvd.

Various car dealerships on Hylan Blvd. and at Dana Ford Lincoln at 266 W Service Road Please call venue to confirm dates and times prior to attending as dates and times may change.

Westhaven Farm Inc. 725 Route 524 • Allentown, NJ 08501 609-259-2186

New Year’s Eve party games on siparent.com december 2017 www.siparent.com

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holiday guide: gift giveway

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Pulse Performance Products Chopster E-Motorcycle

TWELVElittle’s Unisex 3-in-1 Foldover Tote $189

$189

Barbie® DreamHorse & Doll $99.99

Armitron Leather His & Hers Watches $145

American Girl BeForever Doll $115

38 Holiday Gift Guide.indd 1

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T-fal OptiGrill Plus

Tonka Mighty Builders 100-piece Gift Set $107.96

$149.99

Mensch on a Bench Package with Ask Bubbe & Dreidel Dog $67.97

People Blocks 31-Piece Set $59.99 (2 winners)

Dromida KODO FPV Drone $89.99

Wham-O Air Thunder Snow Sled $19.99

Kurio Snap $69.99

Circle with Disney $99

Still time to enter! Go to siparent.com/contests

over $1,400 in Prizes!

Holiday Gift Guide.indd 2

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LIPM holiday guide: recipes

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easy holiday goodies Not sure what to send in for your child’s holiday party? Every kid will love these adorable no-stress treats!

reindeer rice krispies treats Ingredients

• Premade Rice Krispies Treats (or you could make your own) • Candy Eyeballs • Red M&M’s or other red candy • Dark Cocoa Candy Melts • Craft Spoons or popsicle sticks

Directions:

1. Carefully push craft spoons into the Rice Krispies Treats.

2. Melt chocolate following the instructions on the package and then spoon it into a plastic baggie.

3. Cut a small hole in the corner of your bag and draw the antlers.

4. Use a small dot of chocolate under the candy eyes and m&m nose to attach to the Rice Krispies Treat.

From from Eighteen25.com

more recipes

christmas tree brownies Ingredients

• Box (1 lb 6.25 oz) brownie mix • Water, vegetable oil and eggs ( called for on brownie mix box) • 2 or 3 drops green food color • 2/3 cup vanilla frosting (from 16-oz container) red and green M&M’s • Miniature candy canes (2 inch), unwrapped

Directions:

1. Make brownie mix as directed on box for 9-inch square pan. Cool completely 2. To cut brownie into triangles, cut into 3 rows. Cut each row into 5 triangles 3. Stir food color into frosting. Spoon frosting into ziploc bag with snipped end or piping bag and frosting brownies.

4. Decorate with sprinkles and M&M’s 5. Break off curved end of candy cane; insert straight piece into bottoms of triangles to make candy cane trunks.

christmas grinch fruit kabobs Ingredients

Mini Marshmallows Green Grapes Strawberries, leafy tops removed Bananas, sliced Toothpicks, skewers or lollipop sticks

Directions:

1. Pierce a green grape with the lollipop stick (or whichever stick or skewer option you choose) and slide through. On top of the grape, layer a sliced banana – followed by a strawberry (point facing up) and top with a mini marshmallow.

2. Follow this process until all fruit is used, or desired amount is prepared.

From GiveawayBandit.com

From TheWhoot.com

can be found on siparent.com/recipes

40 Recipe spread.indd 2

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11/21/17 11:44 AM

Serena’s Catering Hall

HOSTING BIRTHDAYS, CHRISTENINGS, ENGAGEMENTS, BABY & BRIDAL SHOWERS, GRADUATIONS, ANNIVERSARIES, SWEET 16’S, COMMUNION & MORE! ACCOMODATING GUESTS UP TO 110

192 Ebbitts Street S.I., NY 10306

718-980-0001

www.serenascateringhall.com

LARGE SELECTION for Newborn Baby, Infants, Toddlers, Big Girls 7 - 14, Boys Suits up to size 14, Missy, Petites, Plus Sizes & Plus Size Petites.

Boutique Clothing & Accessories for Missy, Petite, Women & Children

SUZANNE’S

FASHION CORNER

Large Selection of Styles for Special Occasions, Mother of the Bride, Weddings, Christenings, Baptism, Bris, Communions, Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, AY LAY AW E Graduation & Holidays.

WELCOM 656 Forest Avenue • 718.442.8992 www.suzannesfashioncorner.com Mon-Sat 10am-6pm All Major Credit Cards & ATM Cards Accepted

Sign Up! Staten Island Parent emails will give you access to many more events and opportunities for you and your children. Take advantage of them!

Sign up on

siparent.com/signup

ount – Senior Disc ay! r 10% Everyd d with othe

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holiday guide: recipes

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appealing holiday appetizers While the main course is in the oven and guests mingle in anticipation this holiday season, tide them over with easy, cheesy appetizers that will please any crowd.

antipasti holiday skewers Ingredients

• 1 package (9 ounces) cheese-filled tortellini, cooked al dente and cooled • 1/2 cup fat-free Italian dressing • 1 block (8 ounces) reduced-fat Swiss cheese, cubed • 2 cups baby spinach leaves • 32 pieces turkey pepperoni • 3 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes • 16 wooden skewers, 9-10 inches each

Directions:

1. n large bowl, marinate tortellini in Italian dressing 30 minutes in refrigerator.

2. To assemble skewers, start with two pieces tortellini, one cheese cube, two spinach leaves, one pepperoni slice (folded in fourths), one tomato and repeat. Each skewer will have total of four pieces tortellini, two cheese cubes, four spinach leaves, two pepperoni slices and two tomatoes.

3. Repeat until skewers are complete. Refrigerate until serving.

From MidwestDairy.com

baked spinach and artichoke yogurt dip Ingredients

• 1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped • 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach frozen, thawed and drained • 8 ounces plain low-fat yogurt • 1 cup shredded, low-moisture, part-skim Mozzarella cheese • 1/4 cup green onion, chopped • 1 garlic clove, minced • 2 tablespoons red pepper, chopped

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350 F. 2. Combine artichoke hearts, spinach, yogurt, cheese, onion and garlic; mix well.

3. Pour mixture into 1-quart casserole dish or 9-inch pie 4. Sprinkle with red peppers.

From MidwestDairy.com

cheese & garlic cracked bread Ingredients

• 1 crusty loaf, preferably sourdough or Vienna • ¾ cup shredded Mozzarella cheese (or other melting cheese) • 7 tbsp unsalted butter, softened • 2 large garlic cloves, minced • ¾ tsp salt • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F. 2. Combine butter, garlic and salt in a heatproof bowl and melt in the microwave. Stir through parsley.

3. Cut the bread on a diagonal into 2cm/1” diamonds but do not cut all the way through the bread (just like you would cut a french stick for garlic bread).

4. Use your fingers or a knife to pry open each crack and drizzle in a teaspoon of butter and stuff in a pinch of cheese.You don’t need to be too neat; it’s nice to have some of the butter drizzled over the crust.

5. Wrap with foil and bake for 15 minutes until the cheese has mostly melted, then unwrap and bake for 5 minutes more to make the bread nice and crusty.

6. Serve immediately. To make ahead, after wrapping with foil, wrap with cling wrap as well. Store in fridge overnight or freeze to store for longer. To cook, thaw then follow recipe instructions to bake.

From RecipeTinEats.com

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december 2017

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holiday guide

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Stained Glass Hanukkah Menorahs You will need: • black construction paper • white or light colored pencil • silver tissue paper • colored tissued paper • glue stick 1. Draw an outline of a menorah and candles on a piece of black construction paper with a white or light-colored pencil. Then cut out the candles and the menorah with a craft knife.

2. Cut out rectangles of silver tissue paper that will fit behind the cut out menorah and cut out

pieces of colored tissue paper that will fit behind the cut out candles.

3. Using a glue stick glue the tissue paper to what will be the backside of the stained glass. Make sure that you put glue around the cut outs so that when you trim the paper your tissue paper will stayed glued to the construction paper.

4. Cut off the excess black construction paper leaving a border of black construction paper approximately 1/4 inch. ~ from UpperWestSideMom.com

Paper Plate Christmas Trees You will need: • Paper plate (1 per tree) • Clear tape • Green paint • Glue • Multicolored pom poms (you can also use stickers, beads, gems, buttons, or sequins)

2. Roll the plate into a cone shape and seal with tape. Since you will be painting the cones, roll the tape to keep it on the inside.

1. In order to make the cone shape, you will need to cut a chunk out of your paper plate. Find the center and cut out

4. After the paint dries, glue on all your pom poms (or other decorations).

a wedge. Cut out an entire quarter of the plate.

3. Paint your cone green. You could paint the plate before you make it into a cone, if you prefer.

~ from CreativeFamilyFun.net

birth announcements Kids Eat Free

Restaurant Listings on siparent.com.

Click on the Family Fun tab!

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Fun Page.indd 1

>> Submit your baby’s birth announcement on siparent.com/birth-announcements

Alexander Joseph Lopez

Lyanna Jacqueline Canfield

Luna Addison Villa

Nicholas Brent Devito, Jr.

September 27, 1017 7 pounds, 14 ounces Parents: Abigail and Joseph

October 19, 2017 8 pounds, 2 ounces Parents: Lucille and Daquan

October 25, 2017 7 pounds, 14 ounces Parent: Amanda

Jayce Dean Ligotti

August 18, 2017 8 pounds, 1 ounce Parents: Tiffany and Joe

October 8, 2017 3 pounds, 8 ounces Parents: Ashley & Nicholas

december 2017

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11/21/17 12:47 PM

K I D S

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CLASSES IN DRAMA, SONG & DANCE Ages 5-12 & 13-17

Presents...

What Are We Watching at The Cabaret?

Dec. 9 • 4pm & 7pm HELD AT

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church 309 St. Paul’s Ave • 10304 For tickets call 917-754-8957

Pediatric Multi-Disciplinary Diagnostic Evaluation Site SEIT Program & Treatment Center Special Education Services: SEIT Services • CPSE & Private Evaluations CPSE Related Services (approved tertiary) PRIVATE THERAPY Speech, Occupational, Physical, Vision, Counseling, Signing to Enhance Vocabulary

All Ages Welcome

Special Education Services are at No Cost to Parent Services and their location funding provided by county are determined by the taxes & state funds for CPSE (local school district) special education services

Mid-year Registration for Musical Theatre Classes Register at the Dec. 9 4pm or 7pm Shows for New Student Discount.

CAN’T MAKE THE SHOW? CALL 917-754-8957 & REGISTER NOW! CLASSES BEGIN DECEMBER 15

Spring Shows: May 18-20

Directors: Tom Gonzales, Diane Zerega Choreographer: Dee Kanevsky Musical Dir: Damien Santry

Is proud to share our innovative productive programs & events for children, teens, young adults, and their families living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Sun, Dec 10 from 8:30–10am at Applebee’s across S.I. Portions of the proceeds to benefit GRACE Visit The GRACE Foundation face painting booth at the upcoming “Winter Wonderland” Experience 75 Richmond Terr from Nov 25–Dec 23

718.984.5826

905 Annadale Rd (Handicapped Accessible) Email: Therapy905@aol.com

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For more information or to register for programs: 718-983-3800 460 Brielle Avenue Facebook.com/graceofny graceofny.org

Join us for our 35th Season BALLET, TAP, JAZZ, HIP HOP, LYRICAL, CONTEMPORARY, TECHNIQUE, JUMPS & TURNS, ACRO & COMBO CLASSES FOR TOTS! RECREATIONAL CLASS LEVELS ALL THE WAY TO COMPETITIVE CLASS LEVELS

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december 2017

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feature / good nights

why bedtime stories make a difference grandmother’s secret to the perfect bedtime routine

Does reading a bedtime story to our kids really help them go to sleep?

Or is it just an out-of-date, pre-electronics tradition?

You probably won’t be surprised to learn that the ritual isn’t as common these days as it was a generation ago. A recent survey found that only 64% of respondents read bedtime stories to their kids, even though 91% of them were read to when they were young.

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Parents report they are “too stressed” and don’t have enough time to continue the tradition. Fewer than half of children under the age of 5 in the United States are read to daily, says the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Nevertheless, current parenting experts still recommend reading a book to your child as part of their bedtime routine. Mostly praised for its cognitive benefits, reading to kids has been shown to improve vocabulary and creativity.

The Real Magic of a Bedtime Story But a new study confirms what Grandma seems to have known all along... fairy tale magic in bedtime stories not only causes a prince and princess to fall in love, but also causes the whole kingdom to fall into a deep sleep. Reading induces drowsiness.

When the goal is to calm overstimulated nerves for bed, concludes a stress-reduction study, losing yourself in a book is the ultimate relaxation.

Researchers believe the distraction of being taken into a literary world eases the tension in muscles and the heart. In fact, subjects lowered their stress levels by 68% after just six minutes of reading, compared to playing video games which lowered stress by only 21% from their highest levels.

Few of us is lucky enough to have a grandma nearby to read our kids a bedtime story. But fitting in a sleep-inducing fairy tale after an evening of rushing home from soccer practice, setting food

on the table, getting the laundry washed, and finishing homework for the next day just might be worth the effort for both kids and parents Tips for a Sleep-Inducing ‘Bedtime Story’ Routine Dim the lights. Bright lights stimulate our internal clock, so include dim lighting as part the bedtime story atmosphere.

Avoid using an ebook. One Harvard study links e-reading to sleep deprivation. Light-emitting ebooks caused participants to take ten minutes longer to fall asleep.

Create feelings of well-being. Along with the soothing effects of predictability, bedtime routines that include reading a book with a parent create feelings of comfort and closeness. There’s a warmth in cuddling up together and cracking open the doorway into an imaginary land through the words and pictures of a book.

Help kids share their concerns. The American Academy of Pediatrics says reading together can encourage kids to share their feelings about the day as they identify with a character or event in the story. Younger kids may connect with their emotions through the pictures. Discussing concerns can relieve the mental stress that might otherwise have contributed to sleeplessness.

By Karen Kight, a freelance writer who looks forward to bedtime stories with her grandkids.

11/21/17 10:37 AM

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1520 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314

We are sorry but we are not able to accept Medicaid december 2017

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events and activities

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descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Friday, December 1

Toddler Storytime: Toddler Time Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 10:15am • Free • Ages 1-3

718-442-8560 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Lego Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Preschool Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-5

Books & Coloring Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 4-8

Baby Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4:30pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Toddler Storytime & Craft Activity Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-5

No Shush Shabbat Service Temple Israel 315 Forest Ave 718-727-2231 6pm • Free • Ages 4-12

Toddler Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11:30am • Free • Ages 1-3 Staten Island Babywearers Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 12pm • Free • Adults Toddler Playtime Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 12pm • Free • Ages 1.5-5 Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2:30pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Chess Club South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • All ages Game Day South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • All ages Family Storytime West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3+ Game On! St. George Library 5 Central Avenue

December Calendar.indd 1

Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 11am • Free • All ages Homework Help New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11am • Free • Grades PreK-8 Music & Movement New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11am • Free • All ages Staten Island Babywearers West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11am • Free • Adults Culture Shop Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 11am • Free • Adults

december Is:

National Human Rights Month Safe Toys & Gifts Awareness Month National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

important dates:

Pearl Harbor Day - December 7 Hanukkah - December 14-20 Winter Begins - December 21 Kwanzaa - December 26 -January 1 Christmas Eve - December 24 Christmas Day - December 25 New Years Eve - December 31 Seussical the Musical Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-207-1128 7pm • $20 • All ages

Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Freshkills Park T-Shirt Contest Freshkills Park 350 Wild Avenue 212-602-5374 11:55pm • Free • All ages

Color Lounge South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 1pm • Free • All ages

Saturday, December 2

Gingerbread House Craft Home Depot - Targee 545 Targee Street 800-466-3337 9am • Free • All ages Educator Holiday Shopping Event Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 10am • Free • Adults In Alice’s Garden: Fall Service Day

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-12 Tech Zone Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Family Film Saturdays New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • All ages

Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Knitting Social South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • Adults Clay Date South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Nocturnal Animals The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 3pm • Free • All ages Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages Seussical the Musical Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-207-1128 10pm • $20 • All ages

Sunday, December 3

NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages

Outdoor Skills: Shelter Building Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free • Ages 8+ Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages Seussical the Musical Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-207-1128 10pm • $20 • All ages

Monday, December 4

Baby Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road

11/21/17 10:31 AM

events and activities

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descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

718-816-5834 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Toddler Time Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Bouncing Babies West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Krazy Kidz West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Crafternoon West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5+

Yo-Yo Mania St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 212.421.1380 3:30pm • Free • All ages

Little Picassos St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Pizza Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12

Homework Help New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free • Grades PreK-8

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-8

Tween Tuesdays New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free • Ages 9-12

Pipsqueak Picasso’​s New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 5pm • Free • Ages 6-12

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12

Lego Free Play New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 5pm • Free • Ages 4+

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Tuesday, December 5

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 1-3 Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free • Ages 1-3 Baby Space!

St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1

Holiday Lighting ceremonies page 32

Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 w/ admission • Ages 2-4 Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Afternoon Storytime & Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Read Aloud & Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12

December Calendar.indd 2

Preschool Time & Phun with Phonetics New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5 Anti-Bully Support Workshops Projectivity 51 Broad Street 646-765-6531 4pm • Free • All ages NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Road and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, December 6

NYC Compost: Farm & Garden Work Days Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3558 9am • Free • All ages Bird and Nature Walk Wolfe’s Pond Park Cornelia Avenue 718-727-1135 10am • Free • All ages Baby Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Family Storytime & Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11am • Free • All ages Toddler Time Mariners Harbor Library

206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11am • Free • Ages 1-3 Family Playtime Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 3-5 Turn & Learn Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 1pm • Free • All ages Clay Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission • Ages 2-10 Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Children Coloring Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Craft Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 3pm • Free • Ages 3+ Storytime w/ Literacy Inc Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:30pm • Free • All ages STEM Wednesdays St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages Teen Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • Ages 13+ Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 3+ Anti-Bully Support Workshops Rossville A.M.E. Zion Church 584 Bloomingdale Road 646-765-6531 4pm • Free • All ages Family Storytime: Stay & Play Storytime

11/21/17 10:31 AM

events and activities

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descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 4pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Tween Tech Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4:30pm • Free • Ages 9-12 Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-8 Lego Free Play New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 5pm • Free • Ages 4+

Thursday, December 7

Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • $3 • Ages 2-3 Toddler/Preschool Story Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 2-3

Breakfast & Brunch with santa page 32 & 33

December Calendar.indd 3

Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3 • Ages 3-4

Homework Help South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • Grades PreK-8

Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • 5 w/ admission • Ages 2-4

Korean Drama Club South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4:30pm • Free • All ages

DIY Lava Lamps Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 11am • Free • Ages 3+

Spell it, Write it, Read it New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 5pm • Free • All ages

Baby Storytime: Baby & Me Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 11am • Free • Ages 0-1 Bouncing Babies West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby/Toddler Social St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 12:30pm • Free • Ages 0-1

Friday, December 8

Toddler Storytime: Toddler Time Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 10:15am • Free • Ages 1-3

Baby Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby and Me Story Time Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Paint Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Toddler Storytime & 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission • Ages 2-10 Craft Activity Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street CloseKnit 718-442-0158 Noble Maritime Collection 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-5 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 Toddler Rhyme Time 2pm • Free • Adults New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane Homework Help 718-351-2977 Port Richmond Library 11:30am • Free • Ages 1-3 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 Toddler Playtime 3pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street Imagination Station 718-442-0158 New Dorp Library 12pm • Free • Ages 1.5-5 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 Science Time 3:30pm • Free • All ages SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace ProjectArt Workshop 718-273-2060 Port Richmond Library 2:30pm • Free w/ admission • All ages 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 Kidz Cook 3:30pm • Free • Ages 10-15 SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Story Time 718-273-2060 SI Children’s Museum 3pm • Free w/ admission • All ages 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 Game Day 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road Minecraft EDU 718-816-5834 Mariners Harbor Library 3pm • Free • All ages 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 Game On! 4pm • Free • Ages 7-12 St. George Library 5 Central Avenue

718-442-8560 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4:30pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Saturday, December 9

Homework Help New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11am • Free • Grades PreK-8

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure Big Golden Book Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages Mysteries of Magnets SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 12pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Preschool Storytime South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 1pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Turn & Learn Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 1pm • Free • All ages Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-12 Storytime with P.S. 44 Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • All ages Tech Zone Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Family Film Saturdays New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • All ages Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Intro to Tai Chi Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 2pm • Free w/ admission • 8+

11/21/17 10:31 AM

events and activities

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descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Movie Matinee Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • All ages

Deer Exploration Hike The Conference House 298 Satterlee Street 718-967-3542 1pm • Free • All ages

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-8

Tween Tuesdays New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free • Ages 9-12

Knitting Social South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • Adults

Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Lego Free Play New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 5pm • Free • Ages 4+

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Anime and Manga Club South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 5pm • Free • Ages 13+

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Birding: Owls High Rock Park 200 Nevada Avenue 718-967-3542 6pm • Free • All ages

Sunday Salon Alice Austen House Museum 2 Hylan Blvd.

718-816-4506 5pm • $15 • All ages

Sunday, December 10

Monday, December 11

Tuesday, December 12

Blood Drive Staten Island Borough Hall 10 Richmond Terrace 718-816-2000 9:30am • Free • Ages 16+

NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages

Baby Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 1-3

Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Playtime!

Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free • Ages 1-3

Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

Baby Space!

St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1

Krazy Kidz West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages

Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3pm • Free • Ages 6-11

Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 w/ admission • Ages 2-4

Crafternoon West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5+

Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Train Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12

Afternoon Storytime & Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3pm • Free • Ages 3-12

holiday shows page 33

December Calendar.indd 4

Teddy Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 4+ Literacy Inc. Read Aloud St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 4pm • Free • Ages 4-13

Read Aloud & Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Homework Help New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free • Grades PreK-8

Preschool Time & Phun with Phonetics New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5 Drop in Watercolor South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 5pm • Free • Adults NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Road and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, December 13

Baby Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Babies & Brew: Playtime for Them, Coffee for You! Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-3 Family Storytime & Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11am • Free • All ages Toddler Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11am • Free • Ages 1-3 Family Playtime Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 3-5 Clay Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission • Ages 2-10 Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace

11/21/17 10:31 AM

events and activities

LIPM

Follow us on social media

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Children Coloring Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Family Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:15pm • Free • All ages STEM Wednesdays St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12

Family Storytime: Stay & Play Storytime Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 4pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Tween Tech Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4:30pm • Free • Ages 9-12 Lego Free Play New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 5pm • Free • Ages 4+

Thursday, December 14

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Escape Room – Kids edition Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 12am • Free • Ages 9-12

Teen Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • Ages 13+

Greenbelt Peepers Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 9:45am • $3 • Ages 2-3

Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 3+

Toddler/Preschool Story Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 2-3

holiday fairs page 34

Greenbelt Tree Tots Greenbelt Nature Center 700 Rockland Avenue 718-351-3450 11am • $3 • Ages 3-4 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 w/ admission • Ages 2-4 Baby Storytime: Baby & Me Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 11am • Free • Ages 0-1 Bouncing Babies West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Staten Island Babywearers West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 12pm • Free • Adults Baby/Toddler Social St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 12:30pm • Free • Ages 0-1 Paint Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060

December Calendar.indd 5

1:30pm • Free w/admission • Ages 2-10 Toddler Playtime Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street Homework Help 718-442-0158 Port Richmond Library 12pm • Free • Ages 1.5-5 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3pm • Free • Ages 6-11 Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace ProjectArt Workshop 718-273-2060 Port Richmond Library 2:30pm • Free w/ admission • All ages 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 10-15 Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Story Time 718-273-2060 SI Children’s Museum 3pm • Free w/ admission • All ages 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages Game Day South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road Homework Help 718-816-5834 South Beach Library 3pm • Free • All ages 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • Grades PreK-8 Game On! St. George Library 5 Central Avenue Family Movie Night: 718-442-8560 The Nightmare Before 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Christmas (1993) South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road Lego Hour 718-816-5834 Mariners Harbor Library 4:30pm • Free • All ages 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Family Literacy Workshop New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane Lego Challenge 718-351-2977 Great Kills Library 5pm • Free • All ages 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 7+ Friday, December 15

Toddler Storytime: Toddler Time Tottenville Library 7430 Amboy Road 718-984-0945 10:15am • Free • Ages 1-3 Preschool Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-5

Baby Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby and Me Story Time Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Toddler Storytime & Craft Activity Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-5 Toddler Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11:30am • Free • Ages 1-3

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4:30pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Saturday, December 16

NYC Compost: Farm & Garden Work Days Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3558 10am • Free • All ages

Outdoor Skills: Fire Making Blue Heron Nature Center 222 Poillon Avenue 718-967-3542 11am • Free • All ages Homework Help New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11am • Free • Grades PreK-8 Music & Movement New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11am • Free • All ages Super Science Saturdays: Invent It! Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135

11/21/17 10:31 AM

events and activities

LIPM

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descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

11am • $10/$5 Museum Members • 8-13 with an adult

718-351-2977 2pm • Free • All ages

Preschool Storytime South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 1pm • Free • Ages 3-5

Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Turn & Learn Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-425-3504 1pm • Free • All ages

Knitting Social South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • Adults

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-12

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Tech Zone Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-11

I Am Empowered Youth Program Paul Mitchell Partner School Leadership Center 187 New Dorp Lane 718-682-1567 7pm • Free • Ages 13-18

Happy Birthday Mariners Harbor Library!

Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • All ages Family Film Saturdays New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane

Sunday, December 17

NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages

Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Sea Shanty Sessions Noble Maritime Collection 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-447-6490 2pm • Free • All ages Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

holiday events page 33

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Monday, December 18

Baby Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Toddler Time Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3 Toddler Storytime Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

December Calendar.indd 6

Krazy Kidz West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-3

Read Aloud & Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12

Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3pm • Free • Ages 6-11

Homework Help New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free • Grades PreK-8

Crafternoon West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5+

Tween Tuesdays New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free • Ages 9-12

Mad Scientist Monday’s New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 6+

Tinker Time West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 3:30pm • Free • Ages 7+

Homework Help Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 5pm • Free • Grades 1-8

Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12

Lego Free Play New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 5pm • Free • Ages 4+

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Tuesday, December 19

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 1-3 Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free • Ages 1-3 Baby Space!

St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1 Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages

Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • 5 w/ admission • Ages 2-4 Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Afternoon Storytime & Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3pm • Free • Ages 3-12

Preschool Time & Phun with Phonetics New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5 NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Rd and Forest Ave 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, December 20

Bird and Nature Walk Great Kills Park Hylan Blvd. & Buffalo Street 718-727-1135 10am • Free • All ages Baby Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 10:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Family Storytime & Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11am • Free • All ages Toddler Time Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 11am • Free • Ages 1-3 Family Playtime Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 3-5

11/21/17 10:31 AM

events and activities

LIPM

Follow us on social media

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Clay Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/ admission • Ages 2-10 Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Children Coloring Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Family Storytime Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:15pm • Free • All ages STEM Wednesdays St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

cut your own tree farm page 37

Teen Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • Ages 13+

Homework Help South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 4pm • Free • Grades PreK-8

Picture Book Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 3+

Around the World Stories & Craft New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • All ages

Tween Tech Time Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 4:30pm • Free • Ages 9-12 Literacy Inc Story Hour West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 4:45pm • Free • All ages Lego Free Play New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 5pm • Free • Ages 4+

Thursday, December 21

Toddler/Preschool Story Time St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 2-3

Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 w/ admission • Ages 2-4 Bouncing Babies West New Brighton Library 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 11:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Baby/Toddler Social St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 12:30pm • Free • Ages 0-1 Paint Day SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission • Ages 2-10 Homework Help Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3pm • Free • Ages 6-11 ProjectArt Workshop Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3:30pm • Free • Ages 10-15 Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

December Calendar.indd 7

Party with Bubbles Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • All ages

Friday, December 22

Baby Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

Baby and Me Story Time Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane 718-984-6670 11am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Toddler Storytime & Craft Activity Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-5 Toddler Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11:30am • Free • Ages 1-3 Toddler Playtime Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 12pm • Free • Ages 1.5-5 Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2:30pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Game Day South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • All ages Game On! St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Books & Coloring Great Kills Library 56 Giffords Lane

718-984-6670 3:30pm • Free • Ages 4-8 Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4:30pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Saturday, December 23

Homework Help New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11am • Free • Grades PreK-8 Preschool Storytime South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 1pm • Free • Ages 3-5 Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-12 Family Film Saturdays New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • All ages

Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Intro to Tai Chi Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 2pm • Free w/ admission • 8+ Movie Matinee Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3pm • Free • All ages Knitting Social South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • Adults Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages Ursids Meteor Shower Wolfe’s Pond Park Cornelia Avenue 718-967-3542 6pm • Free • All ages

Sunday, December 24

NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages

11/21/17 10:31 AM

events and activities

LIPM

Follow us on social media

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Monday, December 25

Merry Christmas!

Tuesday, December 26

Family Playtime Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 3-5

Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 11am • $5 w/ admission • Ages 2-4

Kid Fun Days Staten Island Zoo 614 Broadway Thursday, December 28 718-442-3100 12pm • Free w/ admission • Ages 2-12 Tot’s Time Plus SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Little Engineers: 718-273-2060 Building Challenges 11am • $5 w/ admission • Ages 2-4 St. George Library 5 Central Avenue Bouncing Babies 718-442-8560 West New Brighton Library 12pm • Free • Ages 6-12 976 Castleton Avenue 718-442-1416 Holiday Break Workshop11:15am • Free • Ages 0-1.5 Statement Necklace Staten Island Museum Kid Fun Days 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A Staten Island Zoo 718-727-1135 614 Broadway 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages 718-442-3100 12pm • Free w/ admission • Ages 2-12 Clay Day SI Children’s Museum Little Engineers: 1000 Richmond Terrace Building Challenges 718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/admission • Ages 2-10 St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 Imagination Playground 12pm • Free • Ages 6-12 SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Holiday Break Workshop718-273-2060 1:30pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Fancy Frames Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A Science Time 718-727-1135 SI Children’s Museum 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 Paint Day 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Children Coloring Time 718-273-2060 South Beach Library 1:30pm • Free w/admission • Ages 2-10 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 Homework Help 3pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street New Year’s Craft 718-442-0158 Huguenot Library 3pm • Free • Ages 6-11 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 ProjectArt Workshop 3pm • Free • Ages 3+ Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street Secret of a Book 718-442-0158 Mariners Harbor Library 3:30pm • Free • Ages 10-15 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 STEAMtastic Thursdays 4pm • Free • Ages 10-14 Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue Story Time 212-621-0690 SI Children’s Museum 4pm • Free • Ages 7-12 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 Story Time 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace Teen Time 718-273-2060 South Beach Library 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 Family Movie Night: F 4pm • Free • Ages 13+ rozen (2013) South Beach Library Picture Book Time 21-25 Robin Road New Dorp Library 718-816-5834 309 New Dorp Lane 4:30pm • Free • All ages 718-351-2977

Tot Time Tuesday The Interpretive Center 2351 Veteran’s Road West 718-967-1976 10am • Free • Ages 1-3

Holiday Break WorkshopPasta Mandala Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Cool School Holiday!

SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 10am • Free • All ages

Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Toddler Time South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free • Ages 1-3

Afternoon Storytime & Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 3pm • Free • Ages 3-12

Baby Space!

St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1

holiday library events page 36

Read Aloud & Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • Ages 3-12 Homework Help New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free • Grades PreK-8 Game On! Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 4pm • Free • Ages 6-12 Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages Preschool Time & Phun with Phonetics New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 4pm • Free • Ages 2.5-5 NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Road and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Wednesday, December 27

Family Storytime & Craft Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11am • Free • All ages

December Calendar.indd 8

4pm • Free • Ages 3+

Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages

Lego Free Play New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 5pm • Free • Ages 4+

11/21/17 10:31 AM

events and activities

LIPM

Follow us on social media

descriptions & details on the events listed here can be found on siparent.com Events announced in this calendar are subject to change. Call to confirm before you attend.

Friday, December 29

Preschool Play Huguenot Library 830 Huguenot Avenue 718-984-4636 10:30am • Free • Ages 3-5

Baby Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 10:30am • Free • Ages 0-1.5

New Year’s Eve (Day) Party Sunday, December 31 • 1-3pm Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 sichildrensmuseum.org Ring in the New Year at the Children’s Museum! Celebrate with music, games, crafts, and light refreshments. Count down to 2018!

The Museum closes at 3:00 pm.

Toddler Storytime & Craft Activity Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 11:30am • Free • Ages 1.5-5 Toddler Rhyme Time New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11:30am • Free • Ages 1-3

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, Dec 1, 2 & 3 Snug Harbor Cultural Center 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-207-1128 spotlighttheatresi.org SEUSSICAL is a family-fun, action-packed musical adventure featuring some of our favorite Dr. Seuss characters: Cat In The Hat, Horton the Elephant, The Grinch & many more!

Perfrct musical entertainment for the whole family!

December Calendar.indd 9

Art Studio SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Music & Movement New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11am • Free • All ages

Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

The Story of Ferdinand Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages

Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Holiday Break Workshop at the Staten Island Museum Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Toddler Playtime Port Richmond Library 75 Bennett Street 718-442-0158 12pm • Free • Ages 1.5-5

Holiday Break WorkshopStamps and Prints Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Little Engineers: Building Challenges St. George Library 5 Central Avenue 718-442-8560 12pm • Free • Ages 6-12

Get Crafty!

Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 1:30pm • Free • Ages 6-16

Holiday Break WorkshopMacaroni Monsters Staten Island Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A 718-727-1135 1pm • Free w/ admission • All ages

Seussical the Musical

Homework Help New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 11am • Free • Grades PreK-8

Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages Kidz Cook SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 3pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Lego Hour Mariners Harbor Library 206 South Avenue 212-621-0690 3:30pm • Free • Ages 5-12 Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4:30pm • Free w/admission • All ages

Saturday, December 30

Zentangle South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 11am • Free • All ages

Family Film Saturdays New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 2pm • Free • All ages Science Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 2pm • Free w/ admission • All ages Korean Drama Club South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 2pm • Free • All ages Knitting Social South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3pm • Free • Adults Story Time SI Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terrace 718-273-2060 4pm • Free w/ Admission • All ages

Sunday, December 31

NYRR Open Run Conference House Park 7455 Hylan Blvd.

855-569-6977 9am • Free • All ages

Monday, January 1

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Tuesday, January 2

Toddler Storytime: Toddler Hour South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 10:30am • Free • 18 months to 3 Tuesday Storytime Barnes & Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue 718-982-6983 11am • Free • All ages Homework Help – Math & Reading Tuesdays New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free • 3-12 Tween Tuesdays New Dorp Library 309 New Dorp Lane 718-351-2977 3:30pm • Free • 5-12 Family Storytime: Read Aloud and Craft South Beach Library 21-25 Robin Road 718-816-5834 3:30pm • Free • All ages NYRR Open Run Silver Lake Park Silver Lake Park Road and Forest Avenue 855-569-6977 7pm • Free • All ages

Friday, January 5

No Shush Shabbat Service Temple Israel 315 Forest Ave 718-727-2231 6pm • Free • 4-12

11/21/17 10:43 AM

family classfied

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Happy Hearts Daycare

Staten Island Family Music

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

3448 Richmond Ave • 10312 718.967.2637 • 201.417.7969

Advanced Tutoring

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

All Grades & Subjects K-12

3 convenient locations.

Morning, afternoon & weekend classes.

www.SIFamilyMusic.com 718.207.1128 Mary Lee Aloia, Director

• Warm & Caring Atmosphere 10% Off New • Clean & Safe Environment • Ages 6 Weeks to School Age Registration.

Mention ad.

• Early Hours: 6am-6pm

Orton-Gillingham Certified Tutor

Teacher with 17 years of experience teaching children how to read Orton-Gillingham is an instructional approach intended for use with individuals who have difficulty with reading, spelling, and writing of the sort associated with dyslexia. It is most properly understood and practiced as an approach, not a method, program, system or technique.

917-538-7383 • mlevine388@gmail.com

Dance Studio 2½ to adult

Dance Birthday Parties

Kinder Combos • Ballet • Tap Modern • Jazz • Hip Hop 230 Livingston Ave (near Wagner HS)

718-727-2649 www.silhouettedancestudio.net

NYS Certified Teachers Ready to Work With Your Child

C: 718-755-3025

Piano Lessons with Suzanne Odessa • All Levels • All Ages • Personalized Instruction Discount available for adults and seniors

917.797.9681

musik2kids@gmail.com

Tots “R” Us Daycare, Inc.

• Companionship • Respite Care • Medication Reminders • Meal Preparation • Chores and Errands • Appointment Escorts

For Your Peace of Mind (718) 477-1144

1330 A Rockland Ave. Staten Island, N.Y. 10314 statenisland@comforcare.com • www.comforcare.com/statenisland

6 weeks–12 years • early pre-school curriculum open 7am-5:30pm (extended hours available) • Summer Camp & Recreational Activities • NYS Licensed, ACD & HRA Accepted • Hablamos Espanol • Free Breakfast, Lunch & Supper • Over Nights & Weekends • Children Ages 2+ Must Wear a Uniform Accepting Admission at our New Center Coming Soon: 472 Netherland Ave.

Email: totsrusdaycare@hotmail.com

Locations Located Off 718-954-4108 5Forest Ave, Near PS 22

Tots “R” Us Daycare, Inc. 11 6 weeks–12 years • open 7am-6pm early pre-school curriculum

• • • •

NYS Licensed, ACD & HRA Accepted Hablamos Espanol Free Breakfast, Lunch & Supper Children Ages 2+ Must Wear a Uniform

917-397-8937 helendockett@yahoo.com 2 Locations off Forest Avenue (near P.S. 22 & P.S. 44)

december 2017

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party needs

LIPM

Follow us on social media

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

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

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check out our party directory on siparent.com

december 2017

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professional directory

LIPM

Follow us on social media

attorney

attorney

Divorce 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

Attorney at Law

www.krichardspc.com 718.720.1000

1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY

MA, LMHC-BC

Jesse David Eisenberg, Esq. Child Accident Attorney When the Unthinkable Happens...Think of Us. 2555 Richmond Avenue, Ste 2 718.966.0877 JESSE@JDELAW.NYC JDELAW.NYC

psychotherapist

Kim Williams-Jenkins

Michael DeSimone

Culturally Competent Compassionate Counseling

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

For Individuals, Groups, Adults and Children

Gentle, Personal, Quality Care for Children & Adults

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

444 Huguenot Avenue • SI, NY 10312

1076 Forest Ave • S.I., N.Y. 347-850-2322

www.bracesbydrindelicato.com

By Appointment • Day & Evening Hours

(718) 967-5213

Member American Association of Orthodontists

SPEECH, OT & PT

Speech, OT & PT

QUALITY CARE SPEECH CENTER, INC.

Ph.D, LCSW Helping Adults, Children and Adolescents with

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

Anxiety, Fears & Worries, Anger, Depression, Grief/Sadness, Insecurity/Shyness, Self-Esteem, Relationship Problems

Some Insurances Accepted

michael.w.desimone@gmail.com 175 Burbank Ave (New Dorp) michaeldesimonetherapy.com

15 1st Street, 2nd Floor • 10306 917-837-1317 CulturallyCompetentCounseling@Gmail

Karen L. Goldman

NYS Licensed Psychotherapist Bereavement Specialist

Psychotherapist LCSW-R, MSEd, CRC, CASAC

orthodontics

counseling services

Private, Comfortable & Confidential

718-650-9000

speech pathology

Speech and Language Therapy Associates of Staten Island, PLLC PROMPT Trained Therapists SOS Feeding Approach Orton-Gillingham & Wilson trained therapists

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

www.pediatricandadultspeech.com

Lisa Jiannetto, MA, CCC-SLP, Director

718.356.6604 • 4056 Amboy Rd • 10308

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) Primary Designation for Physical Therapy Top Tier for Speech & OT

Evaluation & treatment of pediatric speech & language, fine & gross motor delays & disorders

• Department of Education CPSE & CSE Tertiary Designation • Most Insurance Accepted • Homecare & School Services Offered

718.605.4301

718-608-1508

southshorespeechtherapy.com 520B Bloomingdale Rd Staten Island, NY 10309

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

www.qualitycarespeech.com

speech pathology

PreCare

Speech Language Pathology PC

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

718.259.4001 www.slpmd.com

1829 Richmond Rd SI, NY 10306 3099 Coney Island Ave Bklyn, NY 11235

speech pathology

speech pathology

speech pathology, physical & occupational therapy

M.A., C.C.C.-SLP

claire guttsman m.a., c.c.c. - slp

Intellectual Gift, Inc. is a multilingual early intervention agency.

Our highly experienced clinicians perform multi-disciplinary evaluations and homecare services for children ages 0-3.

Sandra Mazzucco 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

718-815-6024

1076 forest ave. (corner of Manor Rd.)

718-447-5501

Certified professional, providing quality evaluations and treatment of adults and children for over 35 years. additional services: Public Speaking Improvement, Accent Reduction, Corporate Speech Pathology & Lecturing

Services Offered • Core & Supplemental Evaluations • Speech Pathology • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Special Instruction • Family Counseling • ABA Services

49 Cranford Court Staten Island, NY 10306 917-553-0424 december 2017

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advertiser directory

American Karate.................................. 29

Gingerbread Learning Center....45, 63

Showplace Entertainment.................. 17

Art Lab..................................................... 21

Grace Foundation............................... 47

SI Academy........................................... 11

Attorney Ralph Gerstein...................... 31

iPlayAmerica......................................... 43

SI Dental Care....................................... 49

Bario’s Restaurant................................. 19

JCC Reality Check............................... 12

SI Pediatric Dentistry............................. 30

Big Bird’s Playhouse............................. 29

Jimmy’s Fine Jewelry........................... 41

SIUH Northwell Health.........Back Cover

Bump2Beyond Wellness..................... 20

Master Curry Karate............................... 3

Small World Dental.............................. 25

Casa Belvedere.................................... 46

Music Together of SI............................. 29

Small World Preschool......................... 31

Creative Learning Clubhouse........... 21

Notre Dame Academy....................... 16

St. Joseph Hill Academy..................... 23

Cutest Cookies........................................ 7

NYBG Train Show.................................. 43

Suzanne’s Fashion Corner.................. 41

Delco Drugs........................................... 43

Proud Moments Therapy.................... 45

The Village Preschool.......................... 19

Dr. Alecia Giovanazzo......................... 13

Rab’s Country Lanes............................ 15

Triple Threat Theatre ............................ 47

Dr. Lisa Lazzara (Kids Dental) ............ 45

Reflections in Dance............................ 47

Vik’s Fine Jewelry.................................. 41

Dr. Biaggio Pacifico............................. 14

Richmond County Day Camp............ 9

Words in Motion.................................... 47

Early Start, Inc........................................ 31

Richmond County Savings Bank........ 2

Zion Lutheran Preschool...................... 23

Freedom Day Camp........................... 21

Richmond University Med. Ctr............. 5

Fun Station ............................................ 27

Serena’s Catering Hall......................... 41

62 • Advertiser Index.indd 2

december 2017

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11/21/17 12:23 PM

~Equal Opportunity Employer~

To you, they’re learning.

To them, they’re having fun.

For Information About The Early Intervention Program Call 311.

UPK/Pre-K For All Full Day Program available with Master Degree level teachers Rated Very High ECERS and CLASS scores on Staten Island Programs Available for Ages 0-5 5 Days - Full Day/Half Day Extended Daycare Hours Available As per Section 4410 of Article 89 of the Education Law

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

• FREE Tuition & Transportation*

• Diagnostic Evaluations and Therapy

by Licensed Certified Professionals.

• Classroom Based Programs With ABA Instruction for 2-3 years olds (limited space)

Placement determined by NYC CPSE.

• NYS Approved Preschool Evaluation Site.

Not responsible for any typographical errors.

* For all eligibile children. Funding by state & local agencies. Parent may transport for reimbursement.

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

718-356-0008 www.gingerbreadlctr.com ~Two Convenient Staten Island Locations~ Call or Visit our School & Pick Up a Free Brochure.

80 Woodrow Rd • 471 North Gannon Ave Email: gingerbread@gingerbreadlctr.com

december 2017

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PRST STD

SOLUTIONS TO EVERYDAY PARENTING

16 Shenandoah Avenue • Suite C Staten Island, New York 10314

U.S. Postage Paid Staten Island, Ny

www.siparent.com

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