Staten Island Parent Digital Magazine May 2021

May 2021

siparent.com

Mother’s Day MEGA Gift List 2021

Family Health Guide

Is Your Teen Sexting?

Anxiety & Your Child:

When to Worry

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

There are only two schools on Staten Island to receive an A+ rating—and only one serving students from Pre-K3 through Grade 12.

Sometimes, grades do matter.

Call us today to schedule a personal tour. 718-303-7802 On Campus 2 May 2021 • siparent.com

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May 2021 • siparent.com

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Advertiser Index page 39

SEE YOUR CHILD ON OUR COVER! Submit your photo on siparent.com/childphoto

Editor Jeannine Cintron

Inside

Digital Director Michelle Yannaco Production director Jiyon Son traffic director Heather Gambaro

may 2021

Account Executives Janine Mulé, Jodi Fatto, Desiree Cannone

Philip Solfaro, age 7

12

Publisher & editor-in-chief Roselle Farina Hecht

Is Your Teen Sexting?

Learn the signs and be prepared.

29

information Advertising: 718.494.1932 Questions: info@siparent.com keep in touch

ILPM siparent.com davlermedia.com facebook.com/siparent instagram.com/statenisland_parent twitter.com/siparent pinterest.com/siparent

Family Health Guide

Resources, local professionals and important info for keeping your family super healthy!

37

Incredible Kids

Meet our latest Incredible Kids Awards recipient, Carline Santlofer!

23-time AWard Winning Magazine

Member of the Parenting Media Association (PMA)

Nominate an amazing kid!

raising kids

8 16 18 22 30 34

11 Tips to Finding the Right Day Camp Dear Teacher: Real Questions from Real Educators How to Prepare Your Child for Preschool Why My Mother’s Day Won’t Revolve Around My Kids Brain Gains: Healthy Food for Kids Child Anxiety: When to Worry

fun stuff

24 26 38

Eight Novels By Moms You’ll Love 40 Unique Mother’s Day Gift Ideas Birthday Club

4 May 2021 • siparent.com

guides 10 20 29 39

Camp Directory Preschool Directory Health Care Guide Professional Services

Staten Island Parent 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.

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LIPM OPEN HOUSE

AGES 4–14 FRIEND & SIBLING DISCOUNTS

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Visit our Website for a Virtual Tour 718.569.5426 • 3555 Victory Boulevard

Chris Mancusi, Director

May 2021 • siparent.com

5

editor’s note

Celebrating Moms!

J Comments? Questions?

Suggestions? Don’t be shy!

Email me at jcintron@siparent.com

get news, tips, and humor all month long

siparent.com/signup @siparent @siparent

ustin Timberlake wasn’t kidding when he said “It’s gonna be May!” He’s understandably excited (yes, I know that’s not really what he says but just go with it).

May really is awesome. At the end of the month we celebrate Memorial Day, which marks the unofficial start to summer. And that means this weird school year is just a month away from finally coming to an end. Yay! May is also the time to celebrate the most important woman in your life — MOM! If you’re reading this, there’s a pretty good chance you’re a mom yourself. That means you should also be celebrating YOU! Make time this month — and every month — for some serious self care. Turn to page 22 to read how one mom isn’t even spending Mother’s Day with her kids at all — and why you might want to consider doing the same (in the name of self care, that is). Then check out page 26 for a ginormous list of gift ideas to make all the moms in your life feel as special as are.

Many health organizations designate May as a time to raise awareness for their cause. It’s a good reminder to make sure you’re in tiptop shape for the summer! Flip to page 30 to see our Family Health Guide for local resources and tips on staying healthy.

From one (soon to be) mom of a teenager to another, I genuinely hope you won’t relate to the story on page 12. But at some point in the next few years, you just might.

Be prepared by learning the signs of teen sexting and what to do if your child is sending or receiving inappropriate messages.

If you’re not already following us on our new Instagram @SIParent, go do it now.

And sure to bookmark SIParent.com for updated events and info all month long!

Editor, Staten Island Parent

to the North Shore Ti n y Tr e a s u r e s A c a d e m y • 3 6 0 V a n D u z e r S t r e e t , 1 0 3 0 4 • 6 4 6 - 9 4 6 - 6 5 8 5

6 May 2021 • siparent.com

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STATEN ISLAND ACADEMY

www.statenislandacademy.org/summer/welcome • 718-303-7845 dcrowe@statenislandacademy.org ~or~ cbruno@statenislandacademy.org

2021 DAY CAMP OPEN HOUSE DATES: Sunday, May 15, 2021 • 11am-3pm

LOOK FOR THESE PROGRAMS THIS SUMMER:

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION Deadline: Saturday, May 15, 2021

Lego Robotics Patrick Academic Resource Center PARC Camp Ed Perpetua Tennis Academy Talented and Gifted

2021 DAY CAMP DATES: June 14 to August 13 CLOSED Monday, July 5

May 2021 • siparent.com

7

camp

11 Tips to Finding the Right Day Camp

S

By Denise Yearian

ummer day camp is a place where children can learn new skills, acquire new interests and make new friends. But there is no one-size-fits-all camp. To find the right day camp for your child, consider these 10 tips.

Consider your child

variety of subjects. As their attention span develops, they may want to focus on a single activity. If you go with a specialty camp, find out how intense the program is. It may be labeled “specialty” but only have a one- or two-hour component with other activities scheduled in.

Talk it over and narrow the options based on your child’s interests and needs. Find out what he wants from the experience and together make a list of things he might like to do. Also consider his developmental needs. Is he ready for an all-day program? Would he be more comfortable in an intimate versus large group setting? If your child likes sports but has shown some interest in drama or art, encourage him to step out of his comfort zone. It may just spark a new passion.

Look at location

Gather info

Ponder program length

Attend camp fairs, or pick up a local camp guide copy.

Circle programs of interest then comparison shop. Call each prospective camp to inquire about philosophy, daily schedule and other topics important to you. Invest this time up front and you may find a camp to stay with for several years.

Traditional or specialty

When choosing between a traditional versus specialty program, consider this rule of thumb: The younger the child, the more varied the activities should be. Children between the ages of 7 and 11 thrive in a setting where they can sample a 8 May 2021 • siparent.com

Find a camp close to your job or home to shorten travel time and allow quick access to your child in an emergency.

Convenience, however, shouldn’t be the primary factor. Balance your decision with what the camp has to offer. If your child really wants to participate in a given camp, consider your willingness to drive out of the way. Or see if there’s a neighbor you can carpool with.

Program length should be viewed in light of the family and child’s needs. If your schedule dictates him having to stay a full day ask about before- and after-care. If he’s younger, find out about naps or quiet times. It’s also important to find out who runs the before- and after-care program. Is it the same staff your child has all day? What activities will he be engaged in during this time?

Scout out schedules

Before enrolling, ask about the daily schedule. What themes and related activities are planned? Will there be field trips or

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LIPM special guests coming in to keep camp exciting and extend theme-based learning? Will your camper receive any reading, writing or math experiences? Done properly, kids can enjoy games and activities that keep those academic skills sharp.

Also look at resources the camp has to offer and inquire how often your child will participate in them. Don’t assume that just because there’s a pool, ropes course or archery field on the brochure it will be part of your child’s session. Ask to make sure.

WE OFFER

A FAMILY OF LEARNING

• Theme Based Art • Social Groups/Role Playing/ Public Speaking • Sensory/Proprioceptive Play Sessions • Reading Intervention/Book Clubs • Speech Therapy • Multicultural Linguistics • Parent Training

Ask about staff

Find out how staff and counselors are chosen, their experience, background, age and training, as well as counselorto-camper ratio. Also ask how counselors are screened and what background checks are done. If you’re going with a specialty camp, what kind of in-depth knowledge and experience do the counselors have teaching the subject?

Consider cost

Compare program costs and find out what the fees actually cover. Some camps include field trips, materials, meals and t-shirts into their initial fee; with others it’s an add-on. Also find out the camp’s refund policy and rules regarding transfer of weeks if your plans change or your child gets sick. If the camp is out of your price range, is a scholarship or financial assistance available?

At Sensorielle we have vision of providing our community of children with a multiple intelligence approach to learning. We believe in having children fully immersed in their learning.

We are committed to exceeding the expectations of our families with modern explorative experiences.

We are experienced working with children with varying degrees of speech and language delays, sensory processing disorder, children with ASD from newborn to school age.

ALL OUR THERAPISTS ARE LICENSED IN THEIR FIELD. 3930 Richmond Avenue • 347-341-6849 • Sensoriellenyc.com Follow us on Instagram @sensoriellenyc

Explore open houses

Visiting an open house can get children acclimated to the environment and give you a better perspective of the staff, facilities and activities. Is the staff smiling and friendly? Do they immediately bond with the children? Are the facilities well maintained, clean, and free of safety hazards?

Peruse policies

Eliminate future problems by reviewing the camp’s policies and procedures before you sign up. You don’t want to learn after the fact that your child can’t turn on his cell phone or that drop-off and pick-up policies differ from what you thought.

Share pertinent information with your child too, so there are no surprises on his end.

Ask about Covid regulations

Ask if there were any Covid cases reported last year and, if so, how they were handled. Check if there are strict regulations in place to prevent spreading and how they are monitored. Ask about their plan of action in the event of any positive cases.

By Denise Yearian, former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.

May 2021 • siparent.com

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2021 CAMP & SUMMER Guide

Find More CAMPS Online: siparent.com/directory/summer-camps

Art Lab

1000 Richmond Terrace • Bldg H • 10301 718-447-8667 info@artlabsi.org • artlabsi.com facebook.com/artlabsi • instagram.com/artlabsi Children will enjoy hands-on activities in drawing, painting, and sculpture. Various techniques of fine and applied arts are explored as children create exciting, take-home art projects! Half days available all summer long.

Big Bird’s Playhouse

1859 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314 718-982-0550 bigbirdsplay@aol.com bigbirdsplayhouse.com​ facebook.com/bigbirdsplayhouse Children will enjoy trips to parks, roller skating, aquarium, Liberty Science Center, Turtleback Zoo, swimming, bowling, movies & sports. Choice between on site or traveling.

July 6-August 27. Established 1991. Give your child the best summer ever!

Camp Half-Blood Staten Island

55 Washington Street Brooklyn, New York • 11201 929-397-9393 info@plato-learning.com • camphalfbloodbklyn.com facebook.com/chbbklyn • instagram.com/camphalfbloodbk pinterest.com/platolearning Calling all heroes! Based on Percy Jackson and Olympians, our fully-outdoor mythology-based day camp needs YOU to defend Clove Lakes Park from monster attacks this summer. Are you brave enough?

Fun Station Day Camp

3555 Victory Boulevard • 10314 718-569-5426 funstationdaycamp@yahoo.com funstationdaycamp.com • facebook.com/FunStationDayCamp FSDC offers both local and travel camp packages starting at as low as $30 per day. Free lunch, free door-to-door transportation, free extended hours. Come join Staten Island’s fastest growing camp! We offer friend/sibling & NYC employee discounts.

10 May 2021 • siparent.com

Richmond County Day Camp

6581 Hylan Boulevard • 10309 718-761-1492 rcdaycamp@gmail.com • rcdaycamp.com facebook.com/richmondcountydaycamp • instagram.com/rcdaycamp/ Richmond County has been the Island’s most popular camp since 1995. Located at Mt. Loretto, we provide a combination of traditional activities with trips and special events.

We opened in 2020. Enroll now.

Staten Island Academy Day Camp

715 Todt Hill Road • 10304 718-303-7845 cbruno@statenislandacademy.org statenislandacademy.org/summer facebook.com/StatenIslandAcademyDayCamp twitter.com/SIA_Summer_Camp Staten Island Academy Summer Day Camp is for kids ages 3-14, Monday to Friday from 9am-4pm. We offer flexible schedules, extended hours, academic enrichment, trips, events, and hot lunch! Join us for 5 day weeks or choose a schedule that fits your busy life. We are here to provide the safe, secure campus you expect for your family.

Staten Island Jewish Community Center Day Camp

1301 Manor Road • 10314 Sept-Jun 718.475.5231 July-Aug 718.983.9000 gwechsler@sijcc.com camp.sijcc.org facebook.com/StatenIslandJCCDayCamp instagram.com/sijcc_camp Explore nature at a picturesque 100-acre campsite! Camp programs include sports, aquatics, performing arts, music, coding, woodworking, STEM, archery, boating, and more. Proven safety track record, all CDC protocols followed. Accredited by the American Camping Association. Register for the same rates as 2020! Marvin’s Camp for Children with Special Needs and inclusion opportunities also available.

Wagner College Department for Lifelong Learning

One Campus Road • 10301 718-390-3221 lifelong-learning@wagner.edu wagner.edu/lifelong-learning facebook.com/wagnerlifelong instagram.com/wagnerlifelong twitter.com/wagnerlifelong With a wide variety of programs for children and teens, we are committed to providing an enriching, diverse, and nurturing environment that promotes personal, academic and social growth.

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LIPM All Camps are Run by Sea’s Varsity Coaching Staff

INSTRUCTIONAL SPORTS CAMPS at St. Joseph by the Sea High Shool Registration Forms on www.JosephSea.org (Click on Sports tab at top of Home Page)

Richard Bruno, Director of Camps at 718.984.6500 x5316

JULY 12-JULY 15

JULY 26-JULY 29

Girls Basketball (Grades 5-12) 9am-12pm

Viking Players (Grades 6-12) 9am-1pm Baseball (Grades 5-10) 9am-12pm Co-ed Lacrosse (Grades 5-12) 9am-12pm

JUNE28-JULY 1

JULY 16-JULY 19

Football (Grades 6-9) 9am-11am

JULY 19-JULY 22

AUGUST 16-AUGUST 21

AUGUST 2-AUGUST 6

Co-ed Tennis (Grades 5-12) 9am-12pm

Science Camp (Grades 5-8) 10am-1pm

Wrestling (Grades 5-12) 9am-12pm Girls Flag Football (Grades 5-10) 9am-12pm Boys Basketball (Grades 5-10) 9am-12pm

Softball (Grades 5-9) 12pm-3pm Co-ed Soccer (Grades 5-12) 9am-12pm Co-ed Volleyball (Grades 5-10) 9am-12pm

ks)

mas (and

Registration is now open for our outdoor, mythology-themed summer camp @

/

/ P: 929-397-9393

E: info@plato-learning.com

Program details and COVID policies can be found on our website: https://camphalfbloodbklyn.com

May 2021 • siparent.com

11

raising kids

Is Your Teen Sexting?

Sending sexual images and messages is increasingly common among teens and tweens. What can parents do about it?

By Margaret Hetherman

M

any parents of tweens and teens are accustomed to seeing a phone attached to their kid—like an appendage. It’s so common, in fact, that it can be easy to forget that texts and emails can wreak havoc if things go unexpectedly wrong. Case in point: Sexting—the sending or sharing of sexually explicit images or content via a cellphone or other device—which is becoming increasingly common among tweens and teens. A JAMA Pediatrics report estimates that 14.8percent of kids ages 12-17 have sent sexts while 27.4- percent have received them. And these numbers continue to rise.

For example, Julia*, a former Manhattan technology teacher, saw fallout firsthand when her (then) 17-year-old daughter, Emma, got tangled up in a digital nightmare. Emma’s boyfriend had talked Emma into sending nude photos of herself. Eventually, they broke up and Emma started dating a guy named “Eric.”

12 May 2021 • siparent.com

When the ex-boyfriend found out and was infuriated, he proceeded to send a nude photo of Emma to all the “Erics” on Emma’s Facebook page. To complicate things further, one “Eric” was the ex-boyfriend of Emma’s older sister. He notified the family. “Your heart races 100 miles a minute and you’re terrified because this could ruin you. It could literally ruin you,” Julia says.

The Consequences of Sexting

Situations like this one are embarrassing and horrifying for everyone involved—and the ramifications can also be extreme.

In many states, sharing or possessing nude or partially nude images of minors is considered child pornography and can be a felony—even if exchanges are consensual. Another danger is that these images could be picked up and distributed by strangers.

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LIPM Hackers and cyberbullies can cause great emotional harm (or worse) if they get access to a naked picture of a tween or teen.

Elizabeth K. Englander, Ph.D., professor of psychology and founder of Massachusetts Aggression Reduction Center at Bridgewater State University, says although these repercussions can be alarming, emphasizing the worst possible outcome isn’t helpful. “There’s a real downside to preaching consequences that are designed to be very frightening, that are very rare,” she says. To maintain credibility when educating kids, she suggests the “bad things can happen, but they don’t necessarily happen” approach.

And it seems that many teens do understand the risks of sexting.

One Brooklyn high schooler explained, “It’s always done on Snapchat because it’s impossible to screenshot a picture without letting anyone know.” (Caveat: Someone can use another phone to take a picture of the image on the first phone). Teens also understand that sexting mishaps could lead to them losing certain opportunities—which happens in about 2- percent of cases, according to Dr. Englander.

In Julia’s case, her daughter is now “more cautious, more tech-savvy in understanding that if it’s out there, it’s out there forever.” Emma’s younger siblings learned from her mistake, too. As Julia puts it: “Do you want the whole world to know?

Then you don’t put that on the phone because there’s always that chance.”

says “the number one step [in good digital parenting] is to talk early, talk often about how to stay safe online, including what to send, what not to send to friends, to relatives, and particularly what not to send to strangers…it’s a difficult and awkward conversation but one that has to happen.”

Kids are using smart phones at increasingly younger ages.

“These incredibly powerful devices are finding their way into the hands and pockets of elementary school kids, never mind middle school, so the conversations that go with those powerful devices have to happen at an earlier and earlier age,” he says.

Balkam cautions against a cookie-cutter approach and recognizes that values vary from family to family. Conversations about safe sexting are similar to conversations about safe sex.

“Only, only send an image to someone you know and that you trust. Do not show your face or any other obvious physical mark, like a tattoo…and that’s ONLY if they’re in a family that would be okay with that.”

Yaelle Yoran, LMSW, a trauma therapist and a Brooklyn mom, sees kids who would have benefited from parental talks about sexting. Many of them were wounded by the process and believed at the time that they were merely flirting by sending “cute” pictures. These kids need to understand that this isn’t a normal romantic process, she says. Sexting can, in fact, contaminate the concept of love and intimacy—which should come first in a healthy relationship. Not the other way around.

What to do if You Discover Your Teen is Sexting

First of all, don’t panic. “It’s really important to remember that these behaviors don’t mean your child is disturbed, depressed, or has poor self-esteem,” Dr. Englander says. “By age nineteen or twenty, about half of kids will have engaged in sexting. It’s not something that is done by a small, deeply disturbed group of kids.”

She does, however, note that sexting varies with age. “Younger kids are usually compelled by negative pressures, such as people making fun of them or threatening them if they don’t do it. For kids over 14, it’s less about pressure and more likely to involve someone they are dating, sexually active with, or someone ‘nicely’ asking for a photo.”

Talk to Your Kids About Sexting

The biggest concern, Dr. Englander says, are the circumstances that lead kids to sext. She suggests parents ask: “‘Are people pressuring you to do this? Do you feel like you’re going to get something out of this? Can you tell me what’s going on with you and this person? Who are they (maybe you know them)?’ Listen to them and make sure they understand the risks.”

Stephen Balkam, founder of Family Online Safety Institute,

Margaret Hetherman is an Independent Journalist and Essayist. Her work can be found in Washington Post, NY Daily News, Gothamist/WNYC, Scientific American, Parents.Com, Your Teen and more. She is based in Brooklyn, NY. Follow her on Twitter: @hetherman

May 2021 • siparent.com

13

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

HELLENIC CLASSICAL CHARTER SCHOOL 1641 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY 10314

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Grades Pre-K to 3rd for September Apply NOW!

OFFERING IN-PERSON AND LIVE REMOTE LEARNING OPTIONS! Replicated after The Hellenic Classical Charter School Park Slope, a National Blue Ribbon School

For inquiries call 718.499.0957, press 2 hccs-nys.org | email: officesi@hccs-nys.org 14 May 2021 • siparent.com

Now offering UPK!

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LIPM OPEN BOWLING 7 DAYS A WEEK RESERVE YOUR LANE BOWLATRABS.COM!

HOST YOUR CHILD’S NEXT PARTY WITH US! AT RAB'S EVERY GUEST IS TREATED LIKE ROYALTY! 2 HOUR PARTY PACKAGES INCLUDES: • BOWLING • BEHIND LANE SETUP • PIZZA & SODA • BALLOON CENTERPIECE

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• INVITATIONS & PAPER GOODS • USE OF BOWLING SHOES • USE OF LIGHT WEIGHT BOWLING BALLS • BOWLING PIN FOR THE GUEST OF HONOR

Youth bowling programs for all ages.

Learn more & register today! bowlatrabs.com/youth

1600 Hylan Boulevard Staten Island, NY 10305 | Phone: 718-979-1600 www.bowlatrabs.com

@bowlatrabs

May 2021 • siparent.com

15

raising kids

Dear Teacher Helping Children Become Responsible

Experienced educators and authors Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts offer solid advice on school and education topics.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com

16 May 2021 • siparent.com

Question: My parents never reminded me to do schoolwork. I somehow had a built-in desire to handle it myself. How can I get my children to have the same attitude?

– Lacking Responsibility Answer: It is not just schoolwork that your children need to be responsible for as they grow up. It is a lot of other things from making their beds and cleaning their rooms to putting dirty dishes in the sink and dishwasher. So, what you have to do is to teach them to be responsible people from early childhood, and it will extend over to handling their schoolwork with some special help from you.

Taking responsibility is an action that brings pride to children as they are doing things by themselves and not having their parents do things for them. It starts when parents invite their children to help with indoor or outdoor chores. You begin by showing them how to handle a small task such as matching pairs of socks. And then give them this responsibility. It is always important to choose responsibilities that are age-appropriate and to praise them for doing these chores. You certainly do not need to reward children for being responsible for

everyday chores. Save rewards for doing things that go far beyond ordinary responsibilities.

One thing that parents often forget to give children is the responsibility of monitoring their work. By this, we mean looking at tests, homework and assignments and seeing what they have done right or wrong. When they have been successful, they need to think about why this happened so it can be repeated. Parents can foster this responsibility by giving their approval for a job well done.

On the other hand, when students do poorly, they need to evaluate why it happened. Did they work too fast? Did they fail to get needed help?

Finally, handling homework successfully depends a lot on having strategies to handle it effectively. This involves parental involvement in helping children learn which assignment they should handle first (easiest or most difficult) and what to do when they run into work that they can’t do. The answer is usually to study examples of similar work that they have done at school.

Handling homework responsibly makes children feel both capable and confident.

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Should My Middle Schooler Have a Cell Phone?

Question: My son who is 11 will be going into middle school in the fall. He is begging for a cell phone as most of his friends seem to have one. He is allowed to have a phone at his new school. If we decide to get him a cell phone, what rules should we set?

– No Cell Phone Fan Answer: First of all, the decision to get your child a cell phone is yours – not your son’s. Base your decision on how mature and responsible your child is. Ask yourself if he is likely to abide by your and the school’s limit to his usage. And consider if he usually keeps track of his possessions. Then before you ever get him a phone, work with him to devise rules about when and where he will use the phone.

If you go online, you will find a number of websites that offer parent/child contracts on phone usage. You might want to adapt and use one of them. You also need to discuss cell phone etiquette, cyberbullying and internet usage. At his age, you will want to know the passwords for any social media accounts he will have. And you should be the one who determines what new apps you will purchase for him. Plus, you definitely need to discuss how many text messages and minutes you are giving him as well as what will happen if he runs over.

LIPM ST. JOSEPH HILL ACADEMY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Providing a premier Catholic education, Pre-K to Grade 8, to the Staten Island community for over 100 years.

Middle States Accredited

Mother Franciska Early Childhood Center featuring 3 & 4 year old programs. Call for info.

Virtual Open House

May 19th • 3-4 pm • Breakout sessions will be grade levels & programs • Visit our website for info

Before & After Care Available

850 Hylan Blvd, SI, NY 10305

718-981-1187 x9136 • stjosephhillacademy.com

Keeping School Skills Sharp this Summer Question: How can I keep learning alive for two fairly good students in the summer? I don’t want them to lose basic skills.

– Building Skills Answer: Most parents realize that the secret to continued academic success for their children is to keep them reading during the summer. If you are running short of ideas, go online to readwritethink.org and search for summer reading. Here you’ll find activities to help children from ages 4 to 18 explore reading and writing all summer long.

And don’t forget to bolster your children’s math skills. Most lose more ground in math than reading. Try to play games with them that require math. If your children like to use the computer, have them search online for “summer math activities.” For lots of fun with math, have them work with “Learning Activities -Math” on our Dear Teacher website.

Beyond bolstering their basic skills, remember that summer is a wonderful time to help your children expand their horizons.

Depending upon the social distance requirements from covid-19, they could try new sports. They also could take art or music lessons.

Many would probably enjoy throwing clay on a pottery wheel and then painting the unique creation. Start researching now for what safe opportunities are available in your community.

May 2021 • siparent.com

17

raising kids

How to Prepare Your Child for Preschool

By implementing simple routines and transitions at home, parents can help prepare their young children for preschool.

By Allison Tibaldi

C

OVID-19 has demanded that parents take on some teaching duties. After months of limited or no in-person school, parents are feeling understandably overwhelmed and stressed. For parents with preschoolers, the lack of in-person school has been especially difficult. Neuroscientists tell us that birth to age 3 is the most critical time for brain development. While school-aged kids may be able to benefit from remote learning, younger children are still in the pre-operational stage, making it unrealistic to expect them to gain much from screen-based school.

In the preschool classroom, separation and autonomy, rather than curriculum, are the primary objectives. As a former preschool teacher who specialized in teaching toddlers, my primary goal for my 2-year-old students was that they feel comfortable without their parent or adult caregiver in the room. With many families spending their days isolated at home during the pandemic, it’s been impossible to re-create the parent-child separation that is inherent in the in-person classroom.

But there is an important objective of the preschool experience that can happen at home, without demanding too much of your time 18 May 2021 • siparent.com

or causing too much additional stress. For toddlers, implementing a brief at-home routine that includes a few simple transitions can lay a strong foundation for when they finally do start or return to school.

After all, a predictable set of routines forms the core of any good toddler program. Activities such as circle time, washing hands, and snack take place in the same order each day in the classroom. The predictability and sequence of these activities is repetitive but not trivial. In fact, the repetitive nature of these transitions helps toddlers understand that they can manage basic life skills independently and without undue anxiety. After a few weeks, they know the routine and can anticipate what is coming next.

The routine can and should be based on the parent and child’s interests, while including activities that focus on both small and large motor skills. And a good transition makes a natural connection between the sequence of activities.

If you play the guitar or enjoy singing, consider a short sing-along followed by a transition to dancing to expend some toddler energy, then transition to washing hands and a snack. Or, make story time or drawing time the first activity followed by a round of Simon Says, then move on to washing hands and a snack. Keep in mind that stirring, mixing, and stringing are important for fine motor skill development, so preparing the snack with the help of your child could be part of the routine too. Some of my student’s favorite edible activities included stringing Cheerios onto shoestring licorice and cutting slices of bread into shapes with large cookie cutters.

Choose a time of day when your toddler is well rested. If you can designate a section of your home or apartment for the sequence of activities, ideally different from where your child usually plays, even better. Remember: The specific activities you choose aren’t necessarily key; it’s the fact that the activities follow a pattern that toddlers come to recognize and eventually depend on.

The toddlers in my program were only in the classroom for 2 hours, twice a week. Four hours per week together wasn’t a tremendous amount of time but it was enough for them to get comfortable with the classroom routines. The at-home routine doesn’t need to last more than 20 or 30 minutes. It’s the consistency that matters.

Allison Tibaldi is a freelance travel, food, and parenting writer. She did graduate work in early childhood education at Bank Street College of Education and has traveled and lived on three continents with her own children.

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raising kids JCC of Staten island

2021 Preschool & Daycare Guide Find More Schools Online: siparent.com/directory/pre-school-daycare

Big Bird’s Playhouse Corp.

1859 Richmond Avenue • 10314 718.982.0550 • BigBirdsPlay@aol.com BigBirdsPlayhouse.com

Programs: Mon-Fri. 6:30am-6:30pm. 6wks-12 yrs. Summer Hours From 7am- 6pm. Meals included. Low tuition. Spanish speaking teacher. Free Pre-K 3 (born 2018), Free Pre-K For All (born 2017). Afterschool program drop off and pick up PS 54, PS 58, PS 60, & PS 69.

Objective: Children learn through arts & crafts, stories, songs & hands-on projects. Music, indoor and outdoor playgrounds.

CASTLETON HILL MORAVIAN CHURCH PRESCHOOL

1657 Victory Boulevard • 10314 Betty Jane Bullen 718.442.5350 • mtobia@castletonhillpreschool.com castletonhillmoravianpreschool.com

Programs: Baby Buzz 4-12 months, Baby Book Worms, Tot-Time-Together 12-20 months old, 2 year old toddler classes, 3 year old half day classes, 3K For All, Pre-K For All.

Objective: A creative early childhood program where the

developmentally appropriate curriculum encourages children to enjoy being young while they look forward to growing older.

Holy Child Preschool

4747 Amboy Road • 10312 718.356.5159 • JoAnn Gaal holychildprek@gmail.com • holychildsi.com

Programs:Toddling Around for 2 year olds; Preschool for 3 & 4 year olds.

Objective: We believe that each child is a unique person

who will develop according to their own individual abilities.

Emphasis is on developing socialization, language, literacy, & math skills laying the groundwork for elementary school.

Children learn through structured lessons, hands-on activities and play in learning centers.

20 May 2021 • siparent.com

1466 Manor Road • 10314 2221 Richmond Avenue • 10314 1297 Arthur Kill Road • 10312 485 Victory Boulevard • 10301 718.475.5230 • Jayne Smith jsmith@sijcc.com • sijcc.org

Programs: Day care starts at 3 mos, 3-K For All & Pre-K For All, extended hours available.

Objective: We offer a stimulating, individualized

age-appropriate curriculum. A developmental approach fosters social & emotional growth.

LITTLE MIRACLES PRESCHOOL & EARLY CHILDHOOD Center

309 St. Paul’s Avenue • 10304 718.727.8202 • lrinaldi@eden2.org • eden2.org • FB/TW/ YouTube

Programs: Center-based full-day program, SEIT & SETSS

services to children with autism or PDD. Preschool & SEIT services for children ages 3-5 who are classified by their school district’s Committee on Preschool Education (CPSE) as a preschooler with a disability. SETSS services are provided in school and at home.

Objective: The goal is to provide children with autism

a highly structured, intensive learning environment which includes individualized programming using Applied Behavior Analysis.

Most Terrific Child Center

555 Tompkins Avenue • 10305 718-273-0334 • mtcdaycare@yahoo.com • mtcdaycrae.com facebook.com/Most-Terrific-Child-Center-105004707711431

Programs: We are an early education center that provides free Full-day 3K and Pre-K programs.

Objective: Children engage in critical and fun environments through art, music and movement, learning technology, & science.

St. Joseph Hill Academy

850 Hylan Boulevard • 10305 718.981.1187 • Eileen Gregor egregor@stjhill.org • stjosephhillacademy.com facebook.com/SJHA1919 • instagram.com/sjhaes

Programs:PreK 3–8 grade. PreK 3 & PreK 4; full or half days. SJHA is a Project Lead The Way School.

Objective: SJHA has been providing a premier Catholic education to the Staten Island community for over 100 years.

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LIPM Staten Island Academy

715 Todt Hill Road • 10304 718.303.7803 Caroline S. Crane ccrane65@statenislandacademy.org www.statenislandacademy.org

Programs: Children explore, create and investigate in SI’s only independent Pre-K3 to Grade 12 school. Extended day included.

Objective: PreK fosters independence,

encourages children to pursue individual interests and nurtures developing language and social skills.

Tender care preschool

6581 Hylan Boulevard • 10309 718.317.2849 or 718.317.2858 catalla@cc-si.org • mountloretto.org mountloretto.org/tender-care-preschool Facebook: Tender Care

Programs: Half or full day 2 year old class. FREE full day 3-K and Pre-K. Extended hours 7am-6pm.

Objective:We offer a developmentally

appropriate and nurturing environment for children ages 2 to 5.

The Children’s Center–College of Staten Island 2800 Victory Boulevard • 10314 Bldg. 2R / Rm 104 718.982.3190 csi.cuny.edu/childcare

Programs: Infant/toddler programs, Preschool program, 3K and Pre-K for All full day, School age program (pending enrollment.)

Objective:Early education & child care.

Flexible scheduling. Subsidized fees for children of CSI students. NAEYC Accredited.

Tiny Treasures Academy

360 Van Duzer Street • 10304 646-946-6585 • anevradakis@gmail.com TinyTreasuresDaycare.com facebook.com/TinyTreasuresAcademy

Programs: A daycare and wellness center with a twist on traditional ways of enhancing our children’s development and supporting the modern-day parent.

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May 2021 • siparent.com

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celebrating moms

Kids y M d n u o r A e lv o v e R ’t My Mother’s Day Wono feel guilty about it! …and I refuse t

By Pam Moore

L

ike orphaned socks, random game pieces, and naked dollies, my mom guilt pops up nearly everywhere. I wonder if I spend too much time on my phone and not enough time listening to my girls’ (repetitive) stories. I snap at my preschooler and mentally berate myself for staying up reading, which makes me tired, and consequently, impatient. I procrastinate asking my husband whether he minds putting the kids to bed so I can go out for a friend’s birthday because I feel guilty for leaving, regardless of the fact that I am home with my kids practically all day, every day.

This Mother’s Day, my kids will probably give me homemade cards and pictures, which I’ll treasure. But the gift I’ll cherish most is the one my husband gave me via our shared Google calendar: An invitation to an event called “Pam do whatever Pam wants.” I plan to do exactly that—without guilt.

Taking care of myself is not just good not just for me, but for my family, too. Here’s why.

Instagram feeds and wonder how everyone else makes it look so easy, if we’re doing it #allwrong.

I’m not saying a day to yourself will cure insomnia or depression, but it can do wonders for your perspective. If you come back to your family refreshed and happy, that vibe will trickle down to the whole family as they catch your mood. My husband will be happy to tell you, giving me time to myself is more than worth the hassle of parenting solo while I’m out. But even if your family isn’t happy about the inconvenience of your yoga class, or you meeting a friend for a walk, Julie Burton, author of “The Self Care Solution: A Modern Mother’s Must-Have Guide to Health and Well-Being,” argues your self-care is still worth prioritizing. According to Burton, the earlier you establish your self-care routine, the easier it will be for your family to eventually accept it.

If Mama isn’t happy, no one is happy.

Even God rested on the seventh day. Moms are on call constantly.

Since having kids, I have become that annoying person who sets their phone down on the table at a restaurant, in case the sitter texts. I refuse to sleep in a yurt in the mountains with my husband while our kids stay with their grandparents so I can be accessible just in case. (Also, I also don’t feel like sleeping in a yurt.) As mothers, even when we’re apart from our children, part of us, however small, remains focused on them.

When we are with them, even when (or more accurately, especially when) we attempt to focus elsewhere, our children make it nearly impossible. I can’t be the only one who makes a phone call when my kids are engrossed in an imaginary fairy world, only to find they are

This old saying might sound like a manipulative way for Mama to get the whole family to bend to her every whim, but it’s not. In fact, emotions are contagious, and you can catch them from anyone.

It just so happens that many women, feeling crushed by the stress of motherhood, battle insomnia for years after their babies sleep start sleeping well. We tend to carry the weight of not just our professional lives, but also commitments to the PTA, carpool, doctors’ appointments, dental visits, scheduling daycare and sitters and camps, and planning birthday parties. All the while, we scroll through our 22 May 2021 • siparent.com

Taking a break makes me a better mom.

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LIPM STARVING or BLEEDING as soon as the other party picks up.

Research shows that employees are happier and more productive when they have ample vacation time. As a mom, your higher-ups (or more accurately, your lower downs) wouldn’t see you as a team player if you sat in your room with the door shut during business hours.

They would, however, love to see you back from a vacation day with your batteries recharged, ready to tackle the next project—be it a boo-boo, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a French braid—with renewed enthusiasm.

I’m modeling the importance of self-care.

Our kids learn from what we do, not what we say. When my daughters see me taking time to nourish my own interests, we all win. I get to spend time doing what makes my heart sing, and they get to grow up thinking that that’s what normal moms do. (Because everyone thinks their parents are normal, at least for a while.) Says Burton, prioritizing self-care sends a message that “empowers children to be able to make healthy choices and advocate for their own self-care as they go through life and are faced with tough decisions like saying no to drugs because they care for and respect their body, or deciding to go out for the soccer team because they want to blow off some steam after school, stay active, and have fun with their friends.”

Since having kids, I’ve had to cut way back on some of my

activities. Gone are weekly craft nights and spontaneous happy hours.

But I cling tightly to parts of my old self. I’m still an avid reader. My girls know when we go to the library, I’ll read them whatever they want after I’ve picked up my books from the hold shelf. My entire adult life, I’ve been an athlete. My girls may grumble about gym childcare, but they know I teach spin every Monday. When I return from a run, they inquire, “How was your run, Mama?” and often join me for some stretching. I would be thrilled if I can raise girls who carve out the time to engage in the recreational pursuits they love (even if those pursuits make their legs hurt), especially if they become mothers.

This Mother’s Day, I will run a 5k. I won’t do it with a stroller or walk/jogging with my daughters. I will run hard. I will grimace in pain while reminding myself to relax my jaw, to smile, that I am lucky I get to do this. I will do it not because I hate myself (though I can see where you’d think that), but because testing my body’s limits brings me joy. Afterward, I will fully relax into the facial I have scheduled.

Sure, I’d love a mimosa brunch with my family. But what I’d love more this Mother’s Day is the chance to replenish my soul with some self-care.

Pam Moore is an author, body positive health coach, occupational therapist, and certified personal trainer who helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com.

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23

celebrating moms

increasingly anxious and detached, and we rooted for her as she re-invented herself as a professional. So, we feel for her when her children cut Jake out of their lives, leaving Phoebe to decide where her loyalties lie.

The Boston Girl by Anita Diamant

Eight Novels Featuring Moms You’ll Fall in Love With

By Pam Moore

N

ot sure what to add to your summer reading list? Here are some page-turners to toss in your beach bag featuring mom characters you’d totally hang out with in real life.

The Widow of Wall Street by Randy Susan Meyers This is a fictionalized version of Bernie Madoff’s descent from a life of affluence and luxury to his exposure as a fraud when his Ponzi scheme crumbles, ruining thousands of lives. In this compelling story, we meet Jake and Phoebe Pierce as students.

Alternating between Jake’s and Phoebe’s perspectives, Meyer chronicles a marriage clouded by deceit. When Jake’s lies are exposed, Phoebe must face the truth: she never really knew her husband.

As Phoebe’s life implodes, the public judges and shames her, assuming her complicity in her husband’s crimes. We however, have known her since she was a teenager, desperate to get out from under her overbearing mother’s roof. We worried for her as Jack grew 24 May 2021 • siparent.com

This is a poignant, funny coming of age story chronicling the life of Addie Baum. Born to Jewish immigrants in Boston at the turn of the twentieth century, Addie’s early life is characterized by her struggle to escape her parents’ expectations and forge her own path. As she unspools her story in response to her granddaughter’s request for an interview (“How did you become the woman you are today?”), we are transported to early 1900’s Boston, where Addie goes to great lengths to obtain an education, forges enduring friendships, faces losses, and searches for love. Addie’s sharp insight, wicked sense of humor, and vast wisdom make you want to sit down with her over a cup of coffee and a platter of blintzes and hear more of her stories.

Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng The story is set into motion when sixteen year-old Lydia Lee’s body is found in a local lake in small rust-belt town. But the drama begins long before Lydia was even born. The story takes root when Lydia’s mother, Marilyn, a Radcliffe co-ed with dreams of becoming a doctor, meets her father, James, a Harvard professor who is the American-born son of Chinese parents. A masterful storyteller, Ng exposes the mountain of secret hurts and desires the Lees have harbored over the years, which ultimately leads to Lydia’s death.

Initially, it’s easy to lay blame on Marilyn. As a mother, she is frequently absent, cool and demanding when she is present. But as Marilyn’s character is revealed to us—her

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LIPM dreams and longings juxtaposed against her own mother’s stifling expectations—our hearts break for this bereaved mother.

The Husband’s Secret

by Liane Moriarty

Cecilia Fitzpatrick, mother of three, loving wife, and a fixture in her community, lives a comfortable life, until she stumbles upon a letter that upends her world. On the envelope are the words “Cecila, if you’re reading this, then I’ve died,” written by her husband, who is still very much alive.

Cecilia goes back and forth on whether to open the letter, revealing an inner life we can all relate to. Despite appearances, she struggles with the ubiquitous challenges of managing the invisible work of motherhood, maintaining a marriage, and connecting with her kids without smothering them. This page-turner begs the question of whether it’s possible to fully know another person or even ourselves.

When it Happens To You

by Molly Ringwald

(Yes, that Molly Ringwald). This trio of stories contains the frailties and complexities of human nature, the intense bonds of family, and the complicated, charged dynamics of marriage. Three distinct narratives intersect to reveal the connections between the characters linking the stories. The action revolves around Greta and Philip, a couple whose marriage is collapsing as Greta endures fertility treatments and the never-ending work of mothering their sassy, energetic, six-year-old daughter. Greta’s inner monologue regarding everything from the disappointments of her life (including her husband’s infidelity), to her observations of the mundane, ring heartbreakingly true.

The Light Between Oceans by M.L Stedman We meet Isabel, as an innocent young woman with a kind heart who falls in love with a stoic older man. Recently back from serving in the Australian military during World War, Tom Sherbourne has accepted a position as a lighthouse keeper on a desolate island. There, he and his new bride create a beautiful, simple life. The only thing missing from their perfect world is a child.

Having endured two miscarriages and just days after delivering a stillborn, Isabel finds a baby in a boat that has drifted ashore. Against her scrupulous husband’s wishes, Isabel nurses and cares for the baby, urging Tom not to report the mysterious arrival. Despite the unsavory circumstances, we smile along with Isabel when the baby provides a light that shines through the shadow of her crushing losses.

The baby is two when Tom and Isabel return to the mainland.

At that point, they must face the fact that another family has been crushed by the loss of the baby they’ve claimed as their own.

Still Life With Breadcrumbs by Anna Quindlen

Rebecca Winters is a divorced photographer whose career peaked decades ago.

With a grown son needing occasional financial help, an aging mother to care for, and a dwindling income, Winters is desperate to make ends meet. Under mounting pressure, she sublets her beloved New York City apartment and takes up residence in a dilapidated cottage in the country. There, she finds renewed inspiration for her art and a simpler way of life, along with an unexpected romance.

Though she enjoyed fame and recognition for her art, Rebecca is anything but pretentious. She captures our hearts as she navigates the transition from city life to the slow place of a small town. And though she may have regrets about her ex-husband, it is without a trace of self-pity that she recounts the injustices of her marriage. By the time she meets her new flame, we are thrilled for Rebecca to finally meet someone who deserves her.

Room by Emma Donoghue Told from the perspective of five-year-old Jack, Room is the story of a mother and her son trapped in a basement where a kidnapper has kept them for years. While the small room is the only home Jack has ever known, it is his mother’s jail. Known only as “Ma,” (we never do find out her real name), Jack’s mother is a strong, courageous, creative woman, whose love for her son burns white-hot. Though most of us couldn’t fathom being imprisoned by a madman, we connect with Ma’s commitment to her beloved son and her undying drive to protect him.

Pam Moore is an author, body positive health coach, occupational therapist, and certified personal trainer who helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com.

May 2021 • siparent.com

25

celebrating moms

40 Unique Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

By Jeannine Cintron

I

t’s the mother of all Mother’s Day gift lists! This year, don’t get her something she needs. Get her something she wants – even if she doesn’t know she wants it!

Think of something she might not buy for herself or try any of these unique ideas.

Wood farmhouse sign.

Go funny, personal or sentimental with a decorative sign for the house. Etsy has a huge variety.

Stylish face masks. It

doesn’t look like they are going away anytime soon, so get her some super fancy or super comfy ones. Or both!

Our faves are from kitsch.com.

Noise-canceling headphones. This is

especially great for work-at-home moms, moms with teens who listen to loud music, or children who fight 24/7. The top brands are Bose, Sony, 3M and Logitech.

Weighted blanket. It’s like giving the gift of a warm hug! Amazon has a great selection.

26 May 2021 • siparent.com

Heating pad. Everyone experiences the wrath of sore

muscles or back pain at some point. Top brands include Vremi, Mighty Bliss and Sunbeam.

Earbuds. Even if she already has

a pair, it’s great to have a backup handy because they are so easy to lose! No need to spend a fortune on Apple AirPods, either. Look to Amazon for dozens of affordable options.

Foot spa. This gift is so underestimated!

There are some top-notch ones with fun features for soothing tired, achy feet or doing at-home pedicures. Top picks include Kendal, Homedics, Revlon and Conair.

Yeti tumbler. She can fill it with

coffee, water, wine, whatever -- and it stays cold (or hot) for a looooong time. You can even get it monogrammed for Mom at yeti.com.

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LIPM Pajamas. We’re all spending more time at home than ever, so comfy pj’s are something you can never have too much of. We love J.C. Penney’s cozy but affordable selection.

Hot chocolate bombs. They’re the latest food trend you didn’t know you needed in your life, and Mother’s Day is the perfect time to indulge.

Bathtub caddy.

Does Mom love relaxing in the tub after a long day?

A bathtub caddy can hold her phone, tablet, candles, a glass of wine, anything she needs handy while she soaks her cares away. Amazon has a great variety to suit any style.

Sunglasses. Summer’s

Learn-to-knit kit.

Perfect for the retired or empty-nest mom. Michael’s has everything you need.

One-step hair dryer. These convenient gadgets

can dry and style at the same time. There’s a lot of options, but Revlon seems to be at the top of the list in most reviews.

coming! Get her the perfect sunnies for the season. Some sites, like Warby Parker, even let you try before you buy.

Vintage record player. For the nostalgic music

lover, vintage-style record players combine old and new technology seamlessly. Victrola. com offers a wide selection.

Ancestry kit. Learn where your ancestors are from!

Ancestry, 23AndMe, and MyHeritage are popular sites to try.

Robot vacuum. Give the gift of a clean floor! Top brands include Bissell, Ecovacs, iRobot and Neato.

Personalized photo book or calendar. Guaranteed

to make grandmas cry (the good tears). Create one on any photo-sharing site like Shutterfly or Snapfish.

Gift certificate for bras. Good

bras, the kind that actually fit, are neither cheap nor easy to find.

Experts recommend having at least five perfectly-fitting bras.

Try ThirdLove.com or a local bra shop for an in-person fitting.

Adult coloring books. Like the kids say, these are just so satisfying. Choose from tons of options on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

Gardening apron and glove set.

Green thumb grandma? Step up her gardening game with monogrammed gloves or a specialty apron designed for whatever she’s growing in the yard. GardeningChannel.com can help you narrow it down.

Under-the-desk exercisers. For moms who

spend a lot of time behind a desk, these small bikes are perfect for staying in shape while getting work done. Top brands include DeskCycle, Cubii and Sunny Health.

Personal journal.

Moms who struggle with mental health – as many do – will benefit from a journal to write their thoughts in. As you might expect, Amazon has an enormous selection. Some also offer sweet personalization options.

Silk pillowcase. Did you know that silk pillowcases are naturally hypoallergenic, good heat regulators, and keep your hair and skin looking and feeling beautiful (as in bed head be gone!).

Slip is our fave brand; find it at Sephora or Nordstrom.

May 2021 • siparent.com

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celebrating moms

Engraved cutting board. Every kitchen

needs a cutting board – and they aren’t always for cutting. Display the family name on a beautifully carved board. Go to Etsy for tons of selections.

Air purifier. Air purifiers work by sanitizing the air, which may include pollutants, allergens, and toxins, so you’ll be literally giving the gift of clean air. Top brands include Dyson, Honeywell, Blue Pure and Coway.

A language course. Is your mom planning to visit another country soon? Has she always wanted to learn the language of her ancestors? Does she enjoy learning new things? There are tons of courses she can take: Rosetta Stone, Babbel, and Duolingo are popular ones.

Charity donation in her name. If there

EN MADE IN A DONATION HAS BE R CHARITY YOUR NAME TO OU

is a cause that your mom holds near and dear to her heart, this is probably the most thoughtful gift you can ever give.

Bangle bracelet with inscription.

Jewelry is a timeless gift —adding a special message just for mom will take it to the next level. Most jewelry stores will add an engraving option for a fee, or try Etsy for a more affordable option.

CBD oil. Despite what your mom might

believe, CBD oil is neither illegal nor will it make you feel high. It can, however, help to alleviate pain, anxiety, depression and more. You can easily buy it at the pharmacy, but search brands on Amazon for more options.

28 May 2021 • siparent.com

Blue light glasses.

Too much time on screens can cause headaches and other vision problems. Everyone should have blue light glasses – and your mom might not even know they exist.

Find them at Warby Parker or Ray-Ban.

Puzzles. Give her a

huge puzzle, 1,000 pieces or more, featuring an image that you just know will make her happy.

Then tell her you want to do it together!

Merch from her fave show.

If she’s an Office fan and doesn’t own a Dunder Mifflin coffee mug, have you even bought her a gift before? You can find fun merchandise from literally any show – past or present – on the Internet. Google away!

Monthly subscription boxes.

Subscription boxes have changed the game for gift-giving because you can give a super special gift that just keeps on giving. There are endless ideas for everyone. Here are some of our faves: wine, coffee, international snacks, cooking, murder mystery, flowers/plants, cheese, makeup, books. Just google each with “subscription boxes” and you’ll find loads of options!

By Jeannine Cintron, Staten Island Parent Editor and mom of two cute but crazy kids.

Health Care GUIDE Meet Your Local family Health Care Professionals

8 Ways to Reach a Healthy Blood Pressure

T

o take care of your heart, it’s important to know and track your blood pressure. Millions of Americans have high blood pressure, also called hypertension, but many don’t realize it or aren’t keeping it at a healthy level.

For most adults, healthy blood pressure is 120/80 millimeters of mercury or less. Blood pressure consistently above 130/80 millimeters of mercury increases your risk for heart disease, kidney disease, eye damage, dementia and stroke. Your doctor might recommend lowering your blood pressure if it’s between 120/80 and 130/80 and you have other risk factors for heart or blood vessel disease.

High blood pressure is often “silent,” meaning it doesn’t usually cause symptoms but can damage your body, especially your heart over time. Having poor heart health also increases the risk of severe illness from COVID-19. While you can’t control everything that increases your risk for high blood pressure – it runs in families, often increases with age and varies by race and ethnicity – there are things you can do. Consider these tips from experts with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI) The Heart Truth program:

Know your numbers. Everyone ages 3 and older should get their blood pressure checked by a health care provider at least once a year. Expert advice: 30 minutes before your test, don’t exercise, drink caffeine or smoke cigarettes. Right before, go to the bathroom. During the test, rest your arm on a table at the level of your heart and put your feet flat on the floor. Relax and don’t talk.

Eat healthy. Follow a heart-healthy eating plan, such as

NHLBI’s Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH). For example, use herbs for flavor instead of salt and add one fruit or vegetable to every meal.

Move more. Get at least 2 1/2 hours of physical activity

each week to help lower and control blood pressure. To ensure you’re reducing your sitting throughout the day and getting active, try breaking your activity up. Do 10 minutes of exercise, three

times a day or one 30-minute session on five separate days each week. Any amount of physical activity is better than none and all activity counts.

Aim for a healthy weight. If you’re overweight, losing just 3-5% of your weight can improve blood pressure. If you weigh 200 pounds, that’s a loss of 6-10 pounds.

To lose weight, ask a friend or family member for help or to join a weight loss program with you. Social support can help keep you motivated.

Manage stress. Stress can increase your blood

pressure and make your body store more fat. Reduce stress with meditation, relaxing activities or support from a counselor or online group.

Have a Healthy Pregnancy. High blood pressure during pregnancy can harm the mother and baby. It also increases a woman’s risk of having high blood pressure later in life. Talk to your health care provider about high blood pressure. Ask if your blood pressure is normal and track it during and after pregnancy. If you’re planning to become pregnant, start monitoring it now.

Stop smoking. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can harm your heart and blood vessels. Seek out resources, such as smoke free hotlines and text message programs, that offer free support and information.

Work with your doctor. Get help setting

your target blood pressure. Write down your numbers every time you get your blood pressure checked. Ask if you should monitor your blood pressure from home. Take all prescribed medications as directed and keep up your healthy lifestyle. If seeing a doctor worries you, ask to have your blood pressure taken more than once during a visit to get an accurate reading.

To find more information about high blood pressure as well as resources for tracking your numbers, visit nhlbi.nih.gov/ hypertension.

By the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute via Family Features

May 2021 • siparent.com

29

health care guide

Brain Gains:

F

7 Foods to Boost Kids’ Academic Performance

act is, all the books, tablets, and notepads kids use for studying are useless if their brains are not in top functioning form. There are certain nutrients that are crucial for their brain development, and better brain development means better brain function, memory, and concentration—all of which contribute to better academic performance.

To keep your kids’ performance at optimum levels, we’ve rounded up seven of the best brain foods to help boost their mental power, and also talked to Brainly’s parenting expert, Patrick Quinn, for pro parenting tips on how to incorporate them into your kids’ daily diet.

1 Nuts & Seeds

Nuts and seeds are packed with nutrients that are essential for brain health including essential fatty acids, protein, zinc, and B-vitamins.

They’re also natural mood boosters that are portable and versatile, making them an excellent choice for study snacks.

Parent tip: Kids aren’t always going to love these. But mixing them in a trail mix with a few chocolate pieces or yogurt chips is a great way to get them munching on the healthy nuts and seeds. Just be careful not to send this in as a school snack in districts where nut allergies can affect other kids.

2 Greek Yogurt

Full-fat Greek yogurt packs a lot more protein than other yogurts (and much less sugar), and can help keep brain cells in good form for sending and receiving information. It’s also full of protein and B-vitamins—essential for the growth of brain tissue, neurotransmitters, and enzymes. Greek yogurt is also a great source of Calcium and Vitamin D. Parent tip: Mix in a teaspoon of honey and some cinnamon to turn this healthy option into a delicious one as well. The problem for me at that point is avoiding eating it myself before the kids get it.

3 Berries

Berries are rich in a variety of compounds that may help promote academic performance and protect brain health. Berries (including blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries) are especially high in flavonoid compounds called anthocyanins, believed to improve mental performance by increasing blood flow to the brain. They also protect against inflammation and improve certain signaling pathways that promote nerve cell production and cellular processes involved in learning and memory.

Parent tip: Berries make an easy study snack, but they can cause sticky fingers that can lead to messy keyboards and homework papers. Try putting several different types of berries on kid-friendly skewers for a fun, healthy, and mess-free desk snack.

30 May 2021 • siparent.com

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May 2021 • siparent.com

31

health care guide 4 Fish

Fish is an excellent source of Vitamin D and the Omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA— both essential for brain growth and function. Consuming more Omega-3s means kids will have sharper minds and better mental skills.

Parent tip: Fish can be a tricky one with kids. If you get them accustomed to eating it when they’re young, they’ll be more likely to be open to new fish dishes when they’re pre-teen and teenagers. You can make fish tasty for kids by serving it simply grilled, like fish sticks, or including it in tacos or in tuna sandwiches.

Another option is using canned salmon to make delicious salmon salad sandwiches that can be mixed with reduced-fat mayo or non-fat Greek yogurt, raisins, chopped celery, and carrots.

5 Eggs

The versatile egg is a great source of protein, and egg yolks are packed with choline, which helps memory development. Eggs can be served in a variety of ways and can be enjoyed at breakfast, as a mid-afternoon snack, or even at dinner.

Parent tip: Eggs are great for making grab-and-go breakfasts kids can eat on the road. Scramble eggs into a whole grain tortilla to make a grab-and-go breakfast burrito, or make your own version of an Egg McMuffin at home by putting a fried egg on top of a toasted English muffin and topping it with a slice of low-fat cheese.

Bonus tip: Eggs aren’t only a great healthy option that will keep them full thanks to the protein, but it’s also a really great gateway to cooking for the budding chef. Teach them how to make scrambled eggs, a fried egg, or a veggie omelet, and you’re fostering a whole new side of creativity. Plus… you might get the occasional breakfast out of that deal!”

6 Oatmeal

Oats are extremely nutritious and they can provide the energy and fuel for the brain that kids need first thing in the morning. Oatmeal is also a fiber-rich food that keeps heart and brain arteries clear. In one study, kids who ate sweetened oatmeal did better on memory-related school tasks than those who ate sugary cereal.

Parent tip: Delicious AND helps with memory at school? Oatmeal should really be considered a bit of a superfood for our kids. It’s another food option that can be endlessly tweaked to suit the tastes of your individual kiddos. You can dress oatmeal up with applesauce, dried fruit, almonds, and banana to make it tastier and more appealing to kids. Due to its natural compounds, adding cinnamon also gives oatmeal an extra ingredient that will help to protect brain cells.

7 Apples and Plums

Kids usually have a craving for sweets. Apples and plums are lunchbox-friendly items that contain quercetin, an antioxidant that helps fight the decline in mental skills. Keep them organic to get the best benefits.

Parent tip: These are some of the few snacks that are on the ‘help yourself’ list in my house. It’s great because kids can grab one when they get home from school while doing homework, or anytime they want a quick bite. For a heartier snack, you can also cut apples into chunky slices and spread them with almond or peanut butter, or you can freeze pitted plums and add them to a favorite nutrient-rich fruit smoothie.

32 May 2021 • siparent.com

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May 2021 • siparent.com

33

health care guide

Child Anxiety:

This Is When You Should Start to Worry

It’s normal for kids to have bouts of fear—but when should you start to worry about your child’s anxiety?

By Stacey Feintuch

K

ids of all ages worry. Your baby cries when you leave the room. Your toddler may fear clowns. Separation anxiety may make your preschooler cry. Your elementary schooler may have a stomachache on the day of a spelling test. Middle schoolers may be nervous about making a presentation in front of their virtual or in-person class. Your high schooler may worry about getting a pimple.

Children have bouts of fears, worries, and anxiety at some point; these are totally normal feelings. “If you don’t have a range of emotions, that’s abnormal,” says Joel Friedman, Ph.D., clinical director at the Center for Family Guidance in Marlton, NJ. Normal childhood anxieties from new people, places, and experiences come and go throughout a child’s life. They need time to learn about, work with, and get comfortable with something new. “Kids are resilient,” says Sanam Hafeez, Psy.D.,

34 May 2021 • siparent.com

a New York City-based licensed clinical neuropsychologist, teaching faculty member at Columbia University’s Teachers College, and founder and clinical director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. “They’re able to shake off a lot of stuff.”

Some kids ask a lot of questions when they’re anxious.

Others figure things out on their own, which can have negative consequences. “Children often ‘fill in the blanks’ with assumptions that can trigger anxious feelings,” says Connecticut-based psychotherapist Haley Neidich, LCSW.

Signs of Child Anxiety It can be difficult for parents to admit when their child has a problem, Dr. Hafeez says. Usually, though, it will be so obvious

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LIPM that you can’t ignore it. “You have to pay close attention to the signs and know when it’s time to get help,” she says. “Most of us are reluctant to admit that there is a problem. But on some level, we know.”

Here are some signs of when to worry about child anxiety: • tendency to worry about what can go wrong in any scenario • avoidance of specific activities, situations, or people • persistent stress despite an adult’s reassurance • trouble sleeping at night, insisting on sleeping with parents, or waking up with bad dreams • fears or worries that interfere with normal daily activities and are difficult to control • changes in appetite • phobias and fears that they’ll likely never encounter • headaches, fatigue, rashes, stomachaches, or other physical symptoms that are unrelated to other medical conditions • unrealistic worries (concerned about getting pregnant without having sex) • anxiety is out of proportion and they lack the insight to realize their worries are exaggerated (worry about SATs while only in grade school) • overly self-conscious (they won’t order in a restaurant for fear of humiliation) • anxiety is uncontrollable (crying at schooling because think their parent will die when they’re apart) • difficulty concentrating • significant change in anxiety in a short period of time • changes in relationships such as choosing not to be around people

When to Worry About Child Anxiety Fears and worries are a natural reaction to new or stressful situations. “You should worry when the anxiety becomes persistent, constraining, and/or begins to impact or interfere with the child’s daily functioning. Facing anxiety or worry is normal and expected throughout childhood. It’s how the child copes when confronted with anxiety that makes the difference,” says Francyne Zeltser, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist in the New York metropolitan area. “If your child is having trouble coping and the anxiety or worries seem overbearing, it’s time to intervene and help.”

Speak directly to your child when you notice something isn’t typical for him, Dr. Friedman says. Younger children will be more vague, not provide as much insight, and won’t be able to pinpoint exactly how they’re feeling—hey may say they have a stomachache, for example. For older kids, choose a time of day to talk about their concerns or worries and why those are reasonable fears, then table the discussion for the day. “If they carry it with

them all day long, it gets a life of its own,” Dr. Friedman says.

With kids home more due to the pandemic, they have less transitional time (they may not be on a school bus, for example) and structure that would typically distract them from their thoughts. “With their environment not changing, they may tend to focus more on what’s bothering them, and that makes it more intense,” he says. “They’re living too much in their head and not really living.”

How to Help Your Child Try to figure out why your child is feeling anxious.

Consider what triggers the anxiety, how long your child is anxious, what helps reduce the anxiety, and what worsens it. “By better understanding why the anxiety occurs, you can help your child plan, so they feel prepared and confident to navigate the anxiety-producing situation,” Dr. Zeltser says.

Don’t dismiss your child’s feelings.

You don’t want him to believe that something is wrong with him, so “it’s important to validate his feelings,” says Jessica Senick, MSW, LCSW, a psychotherapist who practices in Red Bank, NJ. Don’t take what’s happening personally: “It’s not necessarily indicative of something that you as a family have caused,” she says. If you pressure your child to feel a certain way, she may hide her real emotions, making it harder to see the seriousness of her anxiety. Ignoring an anxiety disorder puts him at increased risk of substance abuse, self-harm, and other negative coping strategies. “Helping your child heal from anxiety can help them learn to trust that their caregivers will be there for them when life gets bumpy in the future,” Neidich says.

Consider professional help.

Get your child treatment from a mental health professional if what you’re doing isn’t working. “Childhood anxiety is common and treatable, especially when caught early on,” Dr. Zeltser says.

Your child will be taught coping skills to help her manage the anxiety and reduce physical, emotional, and cognitive issues. She may be prescribed medication.

With proper treatment and support, most kids eventually outgrow childhood anxiety. “Remember, anxiety is rooted in a real or perceived fear of the unknown,” Dr. Zeltser says. “Providing your child with the tools they need to better circumnavigate their worries will accelerate their ability to overcome the anxiety.”

Stacey Feintuch is a freelance writer for print and online publications. She lives in Bergen County, NJ, and is mom to two boys.

May 2021 • siparent.com

35

family health care professionals

Salvatore Indelicato DMD, PC

A long time resident of Staten Island, Dr. Salvatore Indelicato has been providing personal, gentle, quality orthodontic care to the Staten Island community for over 25 years. He received his dental degree, with highest honors, from the University of Florida and completed his orthodontic specialty training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Our state-of-the-art practice provides digital scanning and orthodontic treatments for children as well as adults. Recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, Dr. Indelicato is Board Certified and is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics.

444 Huguenot Avenue Staten Island, NY 10312 718.967.5213 Instagram @bracesbydrsal

bracesbydrindelicato.com

Michael DeSimone Ph.D, LCSW

Offering Telehealth therapy sessions via telephone or video during the pandemic. Treating a number of Acute Stress Disorders triggered by the ongoing threat of Covid 19. I continue to provide mental health services related to anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, loss and grief for adults, adolescents and latency age children. Private and confidential.

175 Burbank Ave (New Dorp) 917.301.5962 michael.w.desimone@gmail.com

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Dermatology

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At Vanguard Dermatology your skin is our passion. It’s our privilege to provide expert and personalized skin care to you and your family. We offer medical, cosmetic and surgical services.

With over 25 years of specialty experience, Dr. Lazzara and her staff serve children of all ages and those with special needs. We offer general anesthesia and sedation in our office or at Staten Island University Hospital. We are board certified pediatric dentists.

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36 May 2021 • siparent.com

fun stuff

Congratulations...

Caroline Santlofer

Staten Island University Hospital’s Incredible Kids Awards Recipient

Nominate an incredible kid

C

ongratulations to March’s Incredible

Kid of the Month, 9-year-old Caroline Santlofer! Caroline was nominated by her mom, who said: “I am nominating my daughter, Caroline, because every day I learn from her. She is intelligent, driven, curious, creative and funny. She does well in school and is well liked in her school community. She cares about all people and calls out injustice when she sees it. She cares about others’ feelings and feels deeply herself. She reminds me often to be a better person, and easily finds something good in anyone she meets. Throughout the pandemic she has been patient and accepting of change, and has adapted to anything she has been asked to do. She makes me laugh and always brightens my day, and I believe that the world is a better place with her in it.”

Staten Island’s Incredible Kids Awards recognizes and honors outstanding children in the community. Nominees have helped others in need, donated time or effort to an important cause, boast impressive achievements at a young age, or simply stand out for their kindness and compassion.

The nominations for May’s Incredible Kids Awards are open May 1-15, 2021. To nominate a child, go to siparent.com/ incrediblekids and upload a photo, then explain in detail why he or she deserves to be selected as the Incredible Kid of the Month.

Each selected honoree will be featured in an issue of Staten Island Parent and receive a $150 Amazon gift card, courtesy of Staten Island University Hospital. Voting begins May 16.

Previous nominees may reenter for any upcoming month.

Featured Pediatric Specialist Dr. Dolly Sharma, director of pediatric infectious diseases, is a board-certified specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of children’s diseases caused by bacteria, fungus, parasites, and other infectious agents. She has treated a wide variety of infections, including meningitis, Lyme disease, skin infections, diarrheal illnesses, complicated pneumonia, and bone and joint infections.

Dr. Dolly Sharma, MD

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May 2021 • siparent.com

37

fun stuff

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club members on this list. Offer valid for the month. Call before to check availabilty.

Sign Up @ siparent.com/birthday-club Enjoy these Birthday Freebies on your big day!

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Professional Services Directory Seeking out nearby resources in legal services, speech development, therapy or other specific need?

These local professionals can help.

attorneys Kurt T. Richards, P.C. Attorney at Law 1200 South Ave, Ste 201 • SI, NY 718.720.1000 www.krichardspc.com

Divorce, Family Court, Child Custody, Spousal & Child Support, Domestic Violence, Adoptions, Name Changes, Annulments, Separation Agreements.

Free Consultation for Divorce Actions. 24 Hour Phone Service.

orthodontics Salvatore R. Indelicato, D.M.D., p.C. Our office follows all Covid-19 safety guidelines from the CDC, 444 Huguenot Avenue • SI, NY 10312 718.967.5213 • www.bracesbydrindelicato.com

ADA & AAO. Mini & Clear Braces, Invisalign, Digital Scanner, Free Consults. Gentle, personal, quality care for children/adults.

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psychotherapists Michael DeSimone Ph.D, LCSW 175 Burbank Ave (New Dorp) • 917.301.5962 michael.w.desimone@gmail.com www.michaeldesimonetherapy.com

Offering Telehealth therapy sessions via telephone or video during the pandemic.

Treating a number of Acute Stress Disorders triggered by the ongoing threat of Covid 19. I continue to provide mental health services related to anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, loss and grief for adults, adolescents and latency age children. Private and confidential.

speech pathology Sandra Mazzucco M.A., C.C.C.-SLP Annadale Town: 465 Belfield Ave North Shore: 1076 Forest Ave 718.815.6024

NYS Licensed Speech Language Pathologist. Evaluations & Therapeutic Intervention for Children & Adults, PROMPT Trained, Oral Motor & Feeding Therapy, Specializing in Fluency. ASHA Certified. Following COVID-19 Guidelines. Telehealth available.

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Hellenic Classical Charter School.................... 14 Holy Child Preschool........................................ 20 St. Joseph Hill Academy Elementary School................................. 17, 20 Staten Island Academy................................ 2, 21 Tiny To Tall Tutoring and Test Prep................. 39

Big Bird’s Playhouse................................... 19, 20 Castleton Hill Moravian Preschool.................. 20 CSI Children’s Center....................................... 21 Little Miracles................................................... 21 Most Terrific Child Daycare....................... 20, 21

Art Lab.............................................................. 10 JCC of Staten Island.............10, 20, Back Cover Master Curry Karate........................................... 3

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