Back to School Online Issue

BACK TO SCHOOL S P E C I A L

O N L I N E

I S S U E

PUBLISHED BY LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP • WWW.LONGISLANDMEDIAGROUP.COM

2

CONTENTS Page 4

How To Ease Kids’ Transition To A New School

Page 6

Pre-College Arts Programs

Page 7

How School Shopping Has Changed In The Pandemic Era

Page 8

How Parents Can Utilize Their Local Library

Page 10

How Students Can Transition To Life On A College Campus

Page 12

How Volunteering Benefits Students

Page 14

What Parents Can Do To Help Kids As The First Day Of Kindergarten Draws Near

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Page 17

Tips For Dorm Room And Campus Safety

Page 19

Tips For Finding An Afterschool Program

Page 26

How To Support Students Interested In The Arts

3

St. Patrick Youth Community 280 E. Main St • Smithtown, NY (Located on Main St. between Terry Rd. & Rte. 111)

Programs for 3-15 Years Old

FALL PROGRAMS: • Enrichment Center & Playtime with Mommy • CYO Basketball • Co-op Prep Course • Dek Hockey • Children’s Choir & Folk Group • CPR & First Aid Training

Enrichment

Learning Center Tutoring

Camp

For More Information Call 631-360-0185 stpatsyouth.com • spyouth@optonline.net

394792N081821

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Intramural Basketball Coming Soon!

Sports

Youth Group & More

4

Back To School

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

How To Ease Kids’ Transition To A New School

Being the new kid in school can be a tall order for youngsters. Children who change schools may face a host of challenges that studies suggest can affect both their social and academic development.

In addition to the toll transferring schools can take on their academic performance, students also may experience difficulty assimilating into their new schools.

Though there’s no formula to make such transitions easier, parents can try various strategies to help their kids successfully adjust to new schools.

• Speak with children about the transition.

Pathways.org, a notfor-profit organization devoted to providing free child development information to parents and health professionals, recommends parents speak with their children about transitioning to a new school. Encourage children to share what excites and worries them about the transition.

The way parents discuss

transitions can go a long way toward shaping how kids view the change.

• Stay true to your routine. Pathways also recommends parents of students who are transitioning to a new school do their best to replicate first day of school routines from years past. Some familiar traditions might help calm kids’ concerns about their first day in a new school.

• Assimilate into a new community before the school year begins.

The education resource Edweek.org notes that the most common causes of students changing schools are residential moves related to parents’ jobs or financial instability. Parents on the lookout for a new job or those who may need to relocate for financial reasons may want to delay moving until the current school year has ended. Moving between school years gives families time to acclimate to their new communities.

That means kids will get time

to make new friends.

Some familiar faces on the first day at a new school can go a long way toward alleviating the fears children may have.

• Volunteer at your child’s new school.

Parental involvement at school can have a profound impact on children. The National Education Association notes that children whose parents are involved at school are more likely to perform academically than students whose parents are uninvolved.

In addition, such students are more likely to have good attendance and exhibit stronger social skills than children whose parents do not involve themselves in their children’s school.

It stands to reason that students transferring to a new school may benefit from parental involvement even more than other students, as seeing their parents approach a new school with excitement and energy may inspire children to follow suit.

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

390659N081821

5

6

Back To School

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Pre - College Arts Programs No two students are the same, and that diversity is often reflected in the activities kids choose to participate in outside the classroom. Academic clubs, scholastic sports and arts programs are just a few of the many extracurricular activities available to students.

Such offerings ensure students with various interests have access to school-based activities outside the classroom.

Arts programs cater to an array of students, from the musically inclined to those who love to paint to the next generation of movie stars. Parents and students may be surprised to learn there are a host of pre-college arts programs that can help students interested in the arts take their passion to the next level. and • Acting Performance Summer Institute: This threeweek online program hosted by the University of California, Los Angeles focuses on theater arts.

The program encompasses performance training programs, movementbased techniques and a final showcase where students create their own content through the devised theater process.

Participation in the program is by admission only. UCLA notes that the program is designed for students interested in participating in a university theater program when they attend college.

• ArcStart: ArcStart is a two-week prearchitecture program for rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors as well as rising college freshmen.

The program is offered

through the Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning at the University of Michigan.

ArcStart is designed to give students an opportunity to study various aspects of architecture.

Students will learn to use specialized drawing, drafting and modeling tools while also exploring architectural history. Students also will enjoy a virtual visit to a thriving architecture firm and be tasked with creating original design proposals. Application is by admission only and there is no minimum GPA requirement to apply.

• Art as Experience: A three-week program offered by Cornell University, Art as Experience is designed to expand students’ understanding of the ideas and practices of art today. The threeweek course is open to pre-college students and undergraduates and introduces a broad range of mediums to

students. The course is open to all registrants and culminates in an exhibition where students will be responsible for the organization and installation of selfdirected art work.

• College Audition Preparation: This program at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University Bloomington is designed for vocalists, brass and woodwind players, and composers entering grades 11 and 12. The program is ideal for students who are planning to apply for entrance to college music programs.

Participants in the oneweek program will work with real audition panel members who will help young vocalists and musicians master their auditioning skills.

Pre-college programs can be ideal for young artists who want to immerse themselves in the arts and hone their skills as they prepare to further their educations.

7

Back To School How School Shopping Has Changed In The Pandemic Era Back to school shopping sales have long been indicators that the summer vacation season is coming to a close. Students and their parents may visit area stores or browse online looking for items to make the coming school year a success. Those lists have looked similar for decades, but shopping for school supplies in the pandemic era may prove to be a unique experience.

Though hundreds of millions of adults and adolescents have now been vaccinated against COVID-19, there figures to be some lingering effects of the pandemic during the upcoming school year.

That could affect which school supplies families buy in the weeks to come. Here’s a look at some of the latest trends.

• A shift from physical stores: According to data from IBM’s U.S. Retail Index, the pandemic has accelerated a shift away from physical stores to digital shopping by about five years. It’s likely that school shoppers will turn to the internet for their supplies, which means local brick and mortar shops should increase their web presence and digital shopping capabilities to reach online shoppers. • Reassessment of what’s essential: The pandemic This includes omnichannel fulfillment, such as buy may have changed which items consumers consider online and pickup in store (BOPIS) options. essential. For example, clothing became less significant as a greater number of students were

enrolled in virtual learning. Back to school shoppers may purchase less clothing and focus more on tech items, among others.

• Traditional supplies become less necessary: In 2020, Deloitte forecasted that a shift in preferences and intentions would result in parents buying fewer traditional supplies, such as notebooks and office supplies, as they chose to invest in digital resources to supplement children’s education. That shift likely will continue into this school year.

• Support for local retailers: Community spirit grew in the early days of the pandemic and continues now.

Many people prefer to shop in locally owned stores.

Eighty percent of customers surveyed feel more or as connected to their communities, according to the business industry consultant company Accenture.

• Customers are trying new brands and products: Shoppers are trying new products out of curiosity as well as necessity. Back to school shopping may include novel brands and other items that may not have been readily purchased in years past.

Back to school shopping may continue to look a bit different than in previous years, spawning trends that may ultimately become the new normal.

Get Ready To “See” The New School Year

Your health & safety are very imortant to the team at Stony Brook Vision World

In response to the COVID-19 epidemic we are following all current CDC safety recommendations.

Hours are now 10am-5pm. For those needing repairs, adjustments, eyeglasses or contact lens pick ups, please call ahead.

2194 Nesconset Hwy. (Red Lobster Shopping Center), Stony Brook • 631-246-5468 • Andrew N. Polan, F.N.A.O.

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Most Insurance & Union Plans Accepted

August Is Children’s Eye Health/Safety Month

394661BN081821

• Eye Exams • Prescriptions Filled • Lab On Premises

8

Back To School

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

How Parents Can Utilize Their Local Library

The COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging for everyone. As the world adjusted to lockdowns, school closures and remote working, parents have been faced with especially unique challenges, and many of those challenges were still present a year after lockdowns began.

Finding productive ways for their children to fill their time has been an ongoing issue for parents since the pandemic began.

School-age children may not be going to school for full days, and many virtual learning programs also end around lunchtime, but a familiar local resource may be just what parents need to keep their kids occupied at home on weekday afternoons.

Local libraries are invaluable community resources, and that value has become even more apparent during the pandemic. Parents

can utilize local libraries in various ways, each of which can help fill youngsters’ time during those hours when school is not in session.

• Online story time: In normal times, many libraries host in person story time sessions for young children. Many libraries have been unable to host in person story time since the start of the pandemic, but those same libraries may have transitioned to online story time.

For example, the New York Public Library in New York City hosts weekday story times through its website.

During such sessions, librarians read books, sing songs and even share literacy tips. An archive of story times is available at https://www. nypl.org/education/kids/ storytime, and many local libraries offer similar services. sessions: • Craft Some libraries even offer free craft projects

to members. Supplies can be picked up at the library on predetermined days of the week, and then families can work on the projects together at home or with other families through Zoom calls hosted by library employees. Parents can inquire with their local libraries to see if such programs are available in their communities.

• Academic support: Some local libraries even offer academic support, which can be especially valuable in the era of virtual learning when kids have little one-on-one time with their teachers. Tutoring services may be available via a local library, which also may supply supplemental materials like interactive learning tools that can bring lessons to life.

Local libraries can help families confront the academic and social challenges posed by the pandemic.

Call Now to Register For a Tour

9

Just Celebrated 40 Years of Excellence

Limited Space Available Following All Regulations

Just Kids Early Childhood Learning Center

Registration for 2021-2022 School Year Is Ongoing Openings for 3 or 4 Year Old Classes Monday-Friday 8:30AM-3:30PM 2, 3 & 5 day programs available

382410N081821

887 Kellum St. Lindenhurst, NY 631-884-3000

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Looking For Teacher Assistants in our Lindenhurst Location-Call for Details

10

Back To School How Students Can Transition To Life On A College Campus

community. The Health, Counseling and Disability Access Services at the University of MissouriSt. Louis urges students to take advantage of opportunities to engage in their new communities as early as possible. The HCDAS notes that firstyear experiences are designed to help students connect with their new life on campus and make new friends. All incoming freshmen are facing the same set of unique circumstances as the 202122 school year begins. That includes the adjustment from remote learning with limited social contact with peers to a return to more traditional academic and social settings. Navigating that transition alongside Some students may other incoming freshmen be a little anxious as can make it a little easier they prepare to return to handle. to campus this fall.

That transition could • Plan ahead. Parents be especially difficult and their college-bound for incoming college children can prepare for freshmen, who must the coming school year by overcome any pandemic- learning about on-campus related concerns about policies over the summer. returning to campus while Will masks be mandated? also making the transition Will classrooms remain to life on a college socially distanced? Are campus. The following are vaccinations required to some ways to make that attend class in person? The transition go smoothly. sooner families learn these policies, the sooner they in the can begin planning for life • Engage

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Much has been made of the challenges that have faced students and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic. The shift to remote learning and shortened school days was difficult for many families, forcing students to adapt to virtual school on the fly as their parents adjusted to working from home full-time while doing their best to keep kids engaged in their studies and occupied when school let out each day.

Given those challenges, it’s no wonder so many families are looking forward to what figures to be a more normal school year in 2021-22, but that return will pose its own unique challenges as well.

on campus. Parents also can look into on-campus resources designed to help students readjust to being back among their peers.

Knowing where to go for help should students need it can ensure any issues that arise are addressed promptly.

• Encourage students to share their concerns.

Opening up about any concerns they may have can help students as they emerge from the pandemic. Many parents were concerned about returning to the office in person, and they can share those concerns and the ultimate outcomes of their returns with students concerned about moving onto a college campus.

Parents are urged to periodically check in with college students about any anxieties they may have about being on campus.

Returning to full-time, in-person learning after the pandemic may be especially challenging for incoming college freshmen. Such students can work with their parents over the summer to conquer their fears and prepare for the coming school year.

11

MOVING/BACK TO SCHOOL SALE $ 89 $ * 159 WE ACCEPT MOST INSURANCE & UNION PLANS

BACK TO SCHOOL

KIDS GLASSES

single vision poly lenses or $149 flexible frame

Some RX restrictions may apply. See store for details.

SPECIAL CONTACT PROMO Monthly Disposables, 2 Boxes = 6 Month Supply (Non-Toxic).

Includes Eye Exam.

(Extreme H20) Some Rx restrictions may apply. See store for details.

199

$

Sunrise Promenade 5284 Sunrise Highway Massapequa Park

Frames from selected group and scratch warranty.

Some Rx restrictions may apply. See store for details.

Dr. Candice Distefano, O.D.

$125

DESIGNER FRAME SALE

Plus A 2nd Pair Free From Select Group Excludes Some Designer Brands

Some RX restrictions may apply. See store for details.

224 Sunrise Mall • Massapequa • 516-795-3030 Se Habla Español Monday - Saturday 11am-7pm • Sunday 12pm-6pm

394241N081821

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

cfo005@cohensfashionoptical.com

*

DIGITAL PROGRESSIVE NO-LINE BIFOCALS

12

Back To School How Volunteering Benefits Students Volunteering is often seen through the lens of how volunteers help to improve their communities.

Though there’s no denying the valuable role volunteers play in strengthening their communities, it’s worth noting just how much volunteers can benefit from donating their time and effort to worthy causes.

A 2020 study published in the Journal of Happiness asked 70,000 participants about their volunteering habits and mental health.

The study found that, when compared to those who did not volunteer, people who had volunteered in the previous 12 months were more satisfied with their lives and gave their overall health higher ratings.

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Volunteering

can

benefit anyone, and can be especially valuable to students, benefitting their overall health and helping in myriad other ways as well.

• Volunteering can get a foot in the door. The National Association of Colleges and Employers reports that employers expect to hire 7.2 percent more new college graduates from the class of 2021 than they did from the class of 2020. That’s encouraging news, but recent graduates will still face stiff competition as they look for their first job. Volunteering with an organization in their field can be a great way for current students and recent graduates to get their foot in the door.

Even if a volunteering opportunity does not

ultimately lead to a job offer, the experience students gain can help them stand out in a crowded pool of job applicants down the road.

of undergraduates in associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs who had declared majors changed their majors at least once within three years of their initial enrollment. The same report noted that roughly one in 10 changed majors more than once.

Those statistics suggest that many students are uncertain about what they want to study at the onset of their college careers.

Volunteering before and during college can help students explore their interests and see where their skills are applicable.

They can then rely on that experience as they choose • Volunteering can help a major. students find a career • Volunteering expands path. A 2017 report from students’ social horizons. the U.S. Department Volunteers serve and work of Education found alongside people from a that about 30 percent variety of socio-economic

backgrounds. That’s a great way to see the world through a new perspective, and it also can positively affect students’ eventual careers. Professionals who have worked with people of various backgrounds are in better position to effectively communicate with a wider array of people, which can help them build a more diverse set of business relationships.

Organizations recognize that value and often prioritize hiring candidates with the kind of strong interpersonal skills students develop through volunteering.

Volunteering can be a great way for students to develop an array of skills that can benefit their personal and professional lives for years to come.

394192N081821

13

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

14

NOW REGISTERING !

NOW ENROLLING FOR SEPTEMBER SCHOOL YEAR 2021-2022 Offering High Quality Child Care, Early Learning, Pre-School, Pre-K & Summer Camp • Full day “Creative Curriculum” taught to all ages and all levels • Weekly sign language classes for all age groups (including infants) • Trained and OCFS qualified staff • Organic/all natural meals and snacks served daily (included) • Free parent app for daily reports and insight into your child’s day • Warm home-like loving environment • Affordable options We Meet & Exceed All CDC & OCFS Guidelines For Disinfecting & Sanitizing!

TinyTreasuresEI.com

631.650.0564 3500 Sunrise Highway - Sunrise Business Center Great River / East Islip

Facebook.com/TinyTreasuresEI

Back To School

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

What Parents Can Do To Help Kids As The First Day Of Kindergarten Draws Near Children experience many firsts as they make their way through infancy and into childhood.

Parents often remember their child’s first word and the day they took their first step, as both are major milestones in youngsters’ lives.

One of the most memorable firsts children experience is their first day of kindergarten.

Though many youngsters now attend daycare and/ or preschool before beginning kindergarten, the first day of kindergarten is still something special for both children and their parents. As the big day approaches, children about to begin kindergarten may experience a range of emotions, including excitement, anticipation and even a little anxiety or nervousness. Parents can help their children manage such emotions by taking various steps to make the first day of kindergarten as fun as possible.

• Request a class list. Some schools may not provide a class list and some will. Parents who can access the class list can go over the list with their children before the start of school. Doing so can • Discuss activities with school officials, including lessen youngsters’ anxiety as they will no doubt recognize a few familiar names on the list. Knowing teachers. Some kids may not be nervous about going friends will be in class alongside them will no doubt to kindergarten, but might not be looking forward make kids more excited for their first day. to the end of summer. In such instances, reaching

out to teachers and/or other school officials to learn what kids will be doing in kindergarten can help. Discuss first-day and early-year activities with teachers and then share that information with kids.

Once kids learn how much fun they’ll be having in kindergarten, they might be less reluctant to say goodbye to summer.

• Let youngsters choose their clothes for the first day. When shopping for first-day-of-school attire, let kids choose their own outfits, explaining to them that the first day of kindergarten is a special day worthy of new clothes. Once the big day arrives, kids may forget their nerves and just be excited to get dressed and show off their new duds, especially if they’re wearing clothes they handpicked themselves.

• Attend a school orientation day. If your child’s school hosts a student/family orientation day, be sure to attend. Orientation will give kids a chance to see their classroom and meet fellow students as well as their teacher. That familiarity can calm kids’ nerves on the first day.

The first day of kindergarten is a milestone.

Parents can employ various strategies to calm any nerves kids may have as the big day approaches.

394786BN081821

Ages 6 Weeks - 5 Years Of Age Child Care & Pre-School Includes: Flexible days (6 weeks - 5 years old)

15

Be Part Of... The Magic... The Excitement... The History... Dance At...

Why Choose Center Stage Dance Studio?

Director: Jeanette Mangulis

- Large Spacious Facility With Three Dance Rooms, A Comfortable Lobby And Separate Dressing Area - Full Time Office Staff To Assist You During Class Times - Ample, Well Lit Parking Area - Oversized Viewing Windows In All Rooms - Affordable Tuition, Easy Payment Plans, Multi-Class Discounts - Professional, Experienced, Adult Teachers - Recreational Classes Geared Towards Promoting Self Esteem, Social Skills And Discipline - Competitive Classes Geared For The More Serious Dance Student - Pre-School To Adult-Beginner To Advanced Classes Available

• Tap • Ballet • Jazz • Combo • Lyrical • Hip-Hop • Acro • Musical Theatre • All Boy • Pointe

REGISTRATION DATES:

TUESDAY, AUGUST 31ST 5 - 7PM WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1ST 5 - 7PM Adult Classes

Call Or Email For Further Information 516-293-2019 csdance@ymail.com

Classes Begin September 13th

Pre-School Starting From Age 2!

www.csdancestudio.com • (Meat Farms/Retro Fitness Shopping Center)

392208N081821

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

1011 Route 109, Farmingdale • 516-293-2019

16

REGISTRATION IS ONGOING

2 1/2 YEAR OLD PROGRAM Monday/Wednesday 12:30-2:30PM $160/Month Must be 2 by July 31st 2021.

3 YEAR OLD PROGRAM Tuesday & Thursday $175/Month 9:15AM-11:45AM or 12:30PM-3:00PM

4 YEAR OLD PROGRAM

3 Day A Week $210/Month Monday/Wednesday/Friday 9:15-11:45AM or 12:30-3PM 5 Day A Week $280/Month Monday - Friday 12:30-2:30PM

Teaching & Caring For Children For Over 36 Years

631.226.1440 36 East John Street • Lindenhurst, NY

stjohnsnurseryschool@gmail.com

Non-Refundable Registration Fee: $50 REGISTRATION FEE & FIRST MONTH’S TUITION ARE DUE WHEN REGISTERING

369707N081821

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

For More Information Or To Set Up A Visit:

17

CONTEMPORARY FASHION FOR TODAY’S WOMAN

from Petite to Plus Sizes UNIQUELY YOURS • 516-221-2246

25% off

3839c Merrick Road • Seaford 516 -221-2246

Shop In Store or Online At www.shopuniquely.com HOURS: SUN 10AM-3PM • MON - WED 9AM-5PM • THURS - SAT 9AM-6PM

Any Purchase Of $50 or More SHOP ONLINE CODE “SHOPATHOME” MULTI-USE

LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER. NEW PURCHASES ONLY. Discount Doesn’t Apply To Private Shop Events or Gift Certificates. With Coupon. Can’t Be Combined With Any Other Offer. Expires 9/1/21

393721N081821

Back To School Tips For Dorm Room And Campus Safety

Life on a college campus can be exciting, especially for freshmen enjoying their first taste of life away from home. As exciting as campus life can be, it also can be a bit nervewracking for students who have never before had to fend for themselves.

Students need not live in fear on campus, but embracing various safety measures can make life at

stairwells are common places for assailants to target victims. If you ever feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and err on the side of caution.

• Hide or lock up valuables. You never know what may catch the eye of a thief. Devices and cash are near the top of lists of most commonly stolen possessions, but a desperate student may steal notes or even expensive textbooks if he or she is struggling.

Always close doors and lock dorm rooms when leaving.

Keep valuables out of sight at school. Consider buying a dorm room safe and lock your locker at all times.

• Prepare for emergencies.

Research the school’s policies on emergency preparedness.

Some have text alert systems for emergency situations like adverse weather conditions, while others have clear guidelines on what students should do

• Install window alarms.

Many retailers sell batteryoperated window alarms that can be adhered to windows. The alarms will activate if the window is opened or the glass breaks.

These alarms can provide extra security even if your dorm room isn’t on the ground floor.

if they feel threatened in any way. Participate in fire drills and learn the nearest exits and protocols for emergency evacuations.

move around, but it can’t hurt to schedule certain classes, particularly if they take place after dark, with a friend so you can walk to and from classes • Utilize the buddy system. together. Security experts Most campuses are safe to say that elevators and

• Be alert when ridesharing. The safety resource Safety.com says rideshare crimes are on the rise. Always identify your driver and vehicle before getting in and ask the driver to identify your name, as he or she will have it and your destination. Wait for the

ride in a safe place, and try to avoid riding alone.

• Maintain personal health. Be sure to visit the doctor and stay current on necessary vaccinations, such as the one for meningococcal disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the risk for meningococcal disease in college students is slightly higher than the risk in other teens and young adults who are not attending college. Other communicative diseases can spread more easily on campus as well.

Campus and dorm safety is multifaceted. Informed students can reduce their risk of being involved in accidents or being targeted by criminals.

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Administrators and security personnel work to make school environments as safe as possible, but incidents can happen on any campus. A recent report from Campus Safety and Security, there were 38,100 reported criminal offenses, including burglary and identity theft, on college campuses in the United States in 2017.

school that much safer.

18

G race Nursery school “Caring, Nurturing Child Centered Environment”

Your Trusted Neighborhood Nursery School Since 1990!

REGISTRATION FOR 2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR

Enroll Your Child In The Best Nursery School

Is Ongoing

OPENINGS FOR 2, 3 & 4 YEAR OLDS

DON’T MISS OUT! ENROLL NOW! WE HAVE SPECIAL CLASSES AVAILABLE 2 DAY CLASSES FOR 2 YEAR OLDS 2 OR 3 DAY CLASSES FOR 3 YEAR OLDS 3 OR 4 DAY CLASSES FOR 4 YEAR OLDS

Limited Space Smaller Class Sizes

OPENINGS STILL AVAILABLE FOR ALL CLASSES

Following All Regulations

d Qualifie & Staff Caring

Contact Us At:

957-3917 www.graceumclindy.com

(631)

gracenurseryschoollindy@gmail.com

369708N081821

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

515 South Wellwood Avenue, Lindenhurst

19

Back To School Tips For Finding An Afterschool Program Today’s children grow up differently than their parents did. Technology has changed the way students learn in the classroom, but perhaps the biggest difference between how today’s kids grow up and how their parents were raised concerns the dynamic at home.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, both parents worked in 63 percent of households that were home to married-couple families with children.

Many of those parents likely did not grow up in households in which both of their parents worked full-time throughout their childhoods, marking a significant difference in the dynamics of modern families compared to those of yesteryear.

Afterschool programs take on heightened importance when both parents work full-time, especially if neither parent works from home.

Many schools and community organizations offer afterschool programs. While it’s great to have options, too many options can make it daunting for parents to find the program for their children.

The Afterschool Alliance (www.afterschoolalliance. org), which works to ensure all youth have access to affordable, quality afterschool programs, offers the following tips to parents as they look to find afterschool programs for their children.

• Contact educators at your child’s school. Many

schools have afterschool programs on school premises. Speak with school administrators or teachers about school-sponsored afterschool programs. Even if a school does not have such a program, educators might be able to provide a list of nearby programs other students attend.

• Contact community organizations. The

631 224 7134

Afterschool Alliance notes that many community organizations, such as the YMCA, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the 4-H Council, may offer afterschool programs. Local churches, synagogues and mosques also may offer afterschool programs to local families, regardless of their religious affiliation.

When speaking to community organizations, discuss how kids are typically transported from school to the program.

• Speak with fellow parents and neighbors. Your community is a great resource. Fellow parents and neighbors, even those whose kids may be in high school or even out of the house, may be able to recommend local programs. Reach out at schoolsponsored events or via social media.

• Contact your local government. Local government offices and officials also can help parents find afterschool programs in their communities.

Local Child Care Resource and Referral agencies (www.childcareaware.org) can be valuable assets for parents having trouble finding afterschool programs for their children.

Afterschool programs are invaluable to families in which both parents work. Finding the right program may involve a combination of strategies.

181 Freeman Avenue • Islip

Located by Gold’s Gym

Ballet • Tap • Jazz • Hip-Hop • Pointe • Contemporary Special Toddler, Preschool, & Combo Programs Performance Companies • Teacher Training Program

Discover the Dance Connection Difference

Whether you’re just starting out or dream of dancing down Broadway, there is a class for you at Dance Connection!

PROFESSIONAL RECITAL Every dancer is a star on stage in our state-of-the-art recital productions!

390667N081821

REGISTER NOW FOR FALL CLASSES Three Easy Ways to Register 1. Stop by the Studio 2. Call (631) 224-7134 3. Register Online at www.lidanceconnection.com

Registernline O

WWW.LIDANCECONNECTION.COM

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

ALL AGES & ABILITIES

20

ONLINE BOOKING

Levittown Lanes

LEAGUES NOW FORMING FOR WINTER 21/22 Ladies, Men, Children and Senior Plus 50 Leagues

Check Our Website For Dates, Times & Details!

SATURDAYS AT 1:00PM

Starting S tarting S Sept. ept. 1 11, 1, 2 2021 021 tthru hru J June une 1 11, 1, 2 2022 022

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

$20 Registration Fee MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES: 2 D Discounted isccounnted G Games ames of Bowling Shoe Rental Weekly $8.00 Customized &S hoe R ental W eeklyy ffor or $ 8.0 00 & a C ustomized T-Shirt Email uss a at: E mail u t:: sstarsnstrikesbowling@gmail.com taarsnstrrikesbowliing@ @gmail.com or Kristine 376-7218 Mike 503-5908 ccontact ontact K ristine ((516) 516) 37 76-7 7218 8 oorr Mik ke ((516) 516) 503-59 908 8 and any ffor or rregistration egistratioon an nd an ny aadditional dditional qquestions. uesstions. **PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS NOT A DROP OFF EVENT**

SENIOR CITIZENS LEARN TO BOWL APPRECIATION DAY! Levittown Levi Le vitt vi ttow tt own ow n La Lane Lanes ness Co ne Co-S Co-Sponsor -Spo -S pons po nsor or C Councilman ounc ou ncil nc ilma il man ma n De Denn Dennis nnis nn is D Dunne unne un ne S Sr. r.

Wee aare W re In Inviting nvitting A ANYONE NYON NE 5 50+ 0+ ffrom rom tthe he S Senior enior C Community ommunity ttoo Co omee oonn D ow wn, gget et aacquainted cquainted aand nd LLearn earn ttoo B OWL! Come Down, BOWL!

Enjoy 3 FREE Games of Bowling on US!!

Bring B riing Friends! Lear Learn rn too Bow Bowl wl • LLight igght Re Refreshments efreshmennts FUN N ffor or aallll Se eniors!

Seniors!

Friday, September 3rd, 2021 Coffee C offee & R Registration egistration sstarting tarting a att 10 10:15am 0:15am Bowling begins begins at at 10:30am 10:30am Bowling

56 Tanners Lane • Levittown • 516-731-5700 (Directly Across From AMC Theater Sign on Hempstead Tpke.)

NS-2167182601H134

See Our Specials & Coupons Online At: www.levittownbowling.com

NEW SUMMER HOURS

MONDAY 3PM TO 12AM TUESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY 1PM TO 12AM SATURDAY 3PM TO 1AM SUNDAY NOON TO 6PM

394250N082521

STARS & STRIKES BOWLING A Special Needs League

JENNIFER NAPOLITANO’S

SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS LONG ISLAND’S TOP TECHNIQUE STUDIO

21

AS SEEN ON SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE NEXT GENERATION ON FOX 5 PLUS ABBY’S ULTIMATE DANCE COMPETITION & DANCE MOM’S

FEATURED ON MULTIPLE SEASONS OF LIFETIME’S DANCE MOMS

Students Seen On Broadway, National and International Tours, TV, Film, Commercials, Music Videos And Are Contracted Wilhelmina Models.

Prestige WORLD RENOWNED Come Join The World Renowned Prestigious, Undefeated, Perfect Score First Place Overall Division and Category Winner of Every Age, Style and Level Dance Studio!

STAFF Master Ballet

SPECIAL SIBLING DISCOUNTS

FREE

Gymnastics / Acro / Tumbling Program For All Registered Students

JNPA DANCE WAS RANKED THE #1 DANCE STUDIO IN NEW YORK AND #2 DANCE STUDIO IN THE U.S. Full Phenomenal Recreational Program For All Ages, Styles, and Levels Private Auditions Available.

Please Contact The Studio for Details: jnpastarsdance@yahoo.com World Renowned Highest Caliber Teaching Staff All Perfect Top & Highest Scoring Studio At Long Island Regional & National Competitions!

COME JOIN LONG ISLAND’S TOP TECHNIQUE, TOP CHOREOGRAPHY, UNDEFEATED DANCE STUDIO WHERE YOUR CHILD WILL RECEIVE TOP QUALITY INDUSTRY TRAINING LIKE NO OTHER!!!

Program

SPECIALIZING IN:

• BALLET • TAP • JAZZ • LYRICAL • CONTEMPORARY • HIP HOP (BY THE STAR FROM “STEP UP 3D” & “BATTLE OF THE YEAR” MOVIES) • POINTE • MUSICAL THEATER • ACTING • GYMNASTICS • VOICE • TV/FILM ACTING • ALL LEVELS 2 & UP • BROADWAY TRAINING • AUDITION PREPARATION • PRIVATE VOICE

393712BN081821

Setting The Elite Industry Standard In Performing Arts

FALL REGISTRATION IS ONGOING • VISIT JNPADANCE.COM TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SCHOOL & DANCERS

3951 Merrick Road, Suite 200, Seaford, NY • 516-785-STAR

Entrance In Rear/Next To Seaford Cinemas

jnpastarsdance@yahoo.com

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

NOW HIRING! CALL TODAY! WHILE HELPING THE COMMUNITY

FOR CDL DRIVER BUS AND VAN $500 FOR NON CDL DRIVERS WILL TRAIN QUALIFIED APPLICANTS

WE HAVE OPENINGS FOR SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Don’t miss an opportunity for a great job where you can serve your community and make good money doing it. We provide the training you need to obtain your commercial drivers license.

394782DN081821

22

EARN EXTRA MONEY

SIGN ON BONUS $2,500

WE OFFER: Flexible Hours • 401k Plans With Matching Funds Health Insurance • Life Insurance • Emergency Family Leave • Safety & Attendance Bonus Twice A Year

NEW STARTING SALARIES BIG BUS

$26.18/Hr Non-Benefit Rate

VAN

$23.41/Hr Non-Benefit Rate

RETIREES WELCOME! • EASY TO DRIVE VANS • FREE CDL TRAINING

AND...

• Positions Available For Mechanics & Bus Attendants • Become A NYS Certified School Bus Driver

EDUCATIONAL BUS TRANSPORTATION

CALL TODAY

631.789.2300

POSITIONS AVAILABLE FOR NASSAU AND SUFFOLK

23

Fall Registration!

Classes Start Tuesday Sept. 7th Explore In Dance Fall Season 3 COMPANY Mini Company Classes

RECREATIONAL Tiny 2’s: Saturday 9:20-10:00 3’s: Saturday 10:00-11:00 4’s: Saturday 10:00-11:00 AcroTOT: Tuesday 5:30-6:15 K-2 Ballet/Tap Combo: Saturday 11:00-12:00 Tuesday 4:30-5:30 K-2 Jazz/Lyrical Combo: Thursday 4:30-5:30

Mini Ballet: Wednesday 4:30-5:30 Mini Tap: Friday 5:30-6:30 Mini Hip Hop: Monday 5:30-6:30 Mini Lyrical/Contemporary Combo: Monday 6:30-7:30 Mini Technique: Wednesday 5:30-6:30

Junior Company Classes

Junior Ballet: Thursday 6:30-7:30 Junior Tap: Friday 6:30-7:30 Junior Jazz: Friday 5:30-6:30 Junior Hip Hop: Friday 7:30-8:30 Junior Lyrical: Thursday 7:30-8:30 Junior Contemporary: Monday 5:30-6:30 Junior Technique: Wednesday 7:30-8:30

Teen Company Classes

Teen Ballet: Thursday 8:30-9:30 Teen Tap: Friday 6:30-7:30 Teen Jazz: Thursday 5:30-6:30 Teen Hip Hop: Friday 7:30-8:30 Teen Lyrical: Wednesday 8:30-9:30 Teen Contemporary: Monday 7:30-8:30 Teen Technique: Tuesday 6:30-7:30

Ballet Ages 8-11: Wednesday 5:30-6:30 Ballet Ages 12-14: Thursday 8:30-9:30 Ballet 15 & Up: Wednesday 8:30-9:30 Tap Ages 8 & up: Friday 4:30-5:30 Jazz Ages 8 & up: Wednesday 6:30-7:30 Hip Hop Ages 5-7: Monday 4:30-5:30 Hip Hop Ages 8 & up: Friday 6:30-7:30 Lyrical Ages 8 & up: Thursday 5:30-6:30 Contemporary Ages 11 & up: Monday 8:30-9:30 Musical Theater: Thursday 4:30-5:30 Modern: Wednesday 6:30-7:30 Pointe: Thursday 7:30-8:30 Acro 1: Tuesday 5:30-6:30 Acro 2: Tuesday 6:30-7:30 Acro 3: Wednesday 4:30-5:30 Acro 4: Tuesday 4:30-5:30

Senior Company Classes

631.226.8800

382442N082521

122 W. Montauk Hwy • Lindenhurst

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Senior Ballet: Wednesday 8:30-9:30 Senior Tap: Monday 8:30-9:30 Senior Jazz: Thursday 6:30-7:30 Senior Hip Hop: Monday 7:30-8:30 Senior Lyrical: Wednesday 7:30-8:30 Senior Contemporary: Thursday 8:30-9:30 Senior Technique: Tuesday 7:30-8:30

24

BE READY FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR!

The pandemic has had a major impact on the world, including on our children’s education. The subject that has been hit the hardest? Math.

To help make up for math learning loss, thousands of parents are turning to Mathnasium. Our customized learning plans have been proven to improve grades and help students catch up, keep up, and get ahead. No matter their grade or skill level in math. Take control of your child’s math education and give them the edge they need in school with live, face-to-face instruction in our center or online.

5071 Merrick Road Massapequa Park, NY Call/Text 516-974-MATH (6284)

382439N081821

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

MASSAPEQUA PARK

Believe And Become

25

St. Martin of Tours Catholic School 30 Union Avenue, Amityville

Are you happy with your school’s education plan for the upcoming school year? St. Martin of Tours has openings in all its classes, Nursery to 8th Grade.

• Open 5 Days a Week • Before and Aftercare Programs • Following NYS and CDC COVID-19 Requirements and Protocols To ensure social distancing guidelines and student safety, we have added more sections in some of our grade levels.

Visit Our Website: www.smtschool.org For more information or to schedule a private tour, please contact the school office at

631-264-7166

394748N081821

• Faculty Run Before and After Care • After School Clubs and Sports • Algebra 1 Regents Math • Living Environment Regents Science • Chromebooks, iPads, Smartboards & Video Conferencing

CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION

54 4% OF YOUTH

in the Massapequas have talked with a parent in the past year about the dangers of alcohol and drug use.*

* 2020-21 Massapequa Public Schools DFC Core Measures Survey Results for Youth Grades 6-12

390624N081821

Like us on

Facebook

This project was supported in whole or in part by funding under grant number NH28CE002530-03 from the Office of National Drug Control Policy, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The content is the responsibility of MTAC and does not necessarily represent the official views of CDCor NYS OASAS.

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

Get Parent Tips at mtacoalition.com

26

Back To School SIGN UP FOR A

FALL CLASS NOW!

How To Support Students Interested In The Arts

Above and Beyond Community Classes

Our nonprofit, Blue Umbrella Experience offers meaningful community learning and social experiences for individuals of all abilities! We are just down the hall from Dynamic Fitness and The Cube at 150 Motor Pkwy, Hauppauge.

Our online and in-person educational, enrichment and fitness classes are taught by professionals and include: Intro to Animal Care, World Cultures, Writing Fan Fiction, Professional Voice Overs, Music Appreciation, Yoga, Martial Arts, Math and Finances for Life, Cooking, Dungeons & Dragons, Performance Acting & Improv, Art, History, Psychology and MORE!

Take a class...join a community!

For more information, email chawkins@buexperience.org or visit abcommunityclasses.org

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

150 Motor Pkwy, Hauppauge

Schools are diverse communities in which people from all walks of life gather to teach, learn and pursue an assortment of interests and passions.

Students are perhaps the best reflection of that diversity, as even small schools are home to young people who excel in sports, music, theatre, and of course, academics.

Many young people harbor a strong interest in the arts, which can provide some surprising benefits. For example, the National Endowment for the Arts reports that students with high arts participation and low socioeconomic status have a 4 percent dropout rate. That’s five times lower than their low socioeconomic status peers. In addition, a report from the Rice Kinder Institute for Urban Research found that arts education experiences reduce the proportion of students in school receiving disciplinary infractions by 3.6 percent.

Despite the myriad benefits of participation in arts education, which can include improved

performance in the classroom, Americans for the Arts notes that not all students have access to art-based educational experiences.

Parents of students who are interested in the arts can try various approaches to nurture those interests.

• Support school-based arts education programs.

Funding for arts programs is perpetually in jeopardy.

Each state and school district is different, but a 2013 report from the National Association of State Boards of Education found that federal funding for arts and humanities programs totaled roughly $250 million a year, while the National Science Foundation received around $5 billion annually. Arts and sciences are both important, and parents can support legislation that directs more federal funding for the arts while urging local legislators to direct more money to arts education.

• Make art a part of life at home. Americans for the Arts recommends that parents make the arts part of life at home.

Participating alongside children as they sing, dance, draw, play music or pursue other artsbased interests is a great way to incorporate the arts into home life while showing kids how fun the arts can be.

• Research local performing arts schools.

Children who exhibit an especially strong interest in the arts may benefit from enrolling in a school that specializes in performing arts.

Such schools may be open to kids as young as five and extend all the way through high school. Some performing arts schools require prospective students to audition or apply.

Arts high schools still offer instruction in core academic subjects, but parents should explore each school’s curriculum before deciding if a given school is right for their children.

Arts education can have a profound impact on the life of a young person.

There are many ways for parents to nurture and encourage their children’s interest in the arts.

27

STANFORD

CHILD CARE CENTER WWW.STANFORDCHILD.COM

Providing the highest standards of care, education and support

OPEN ENROLLMENT Morning Or Afternoon • Half or Full Day Sessions Available

FREE UNIVERSAL PRE-K FOR 4 YEAR OLDS RESIDING IN COPIAGUE

Reasonable Rates!

Pre-School Learning Center Full Time And Part Time Year Round Schedules Before/After School Programs Available Free Busing To/From Copiague Elementary Schools Tutoring By N.Y.S. Certified Teachers Multiple Child Discount Full Playground, Summer Activities, Outdoor Fun, Etc. 1275 Montauk Highway M-F 7am-6pm P: 631-225-4600

CONTACT

info@stanfordchild.com P: 631-225-4600 F: 631-225-9390

394530N080421

COPIAGUE

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

• • • • • • •

28

A GREAT FOUNDATION FOR ALL SPORTS Congratulations To Our Former Gymnast

Andrew Capobianco

On His Olympic Silver Medal Performance In Synchronized Diving

Quality Instruction & Competition Programs For Boys & Girls Starting At 13 Months

Progress Through Progression • Professional Experienced Staff

CELEBRATING OUR 45TH ANNIVERSARY!!!

Session 1 2021-2022 September 9th - January 22nd Registration Always Accepted

Visit Our Website

bkgymnastics.net For Details & Schedule

BKGymnasticsCenter

bkgymnastics76

25 SOUTH JEROME AVE., WEST BABYLON

Centrally Located - Just South Of Sunrise Highway Between Belmont Ave. And Little East Neck Rd.

390602N082521

SPECIAL ONLINE ISSUE - HEALTH & WELLNESS - 2020

631-422-0116