Boston Parent October 2017

OCTOBER 2017

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Is that Me Yelling?

8 TIPS TO QUIT!

Understanding Special Education and IEPs

YOUR GUIDE TO FALL FUN!

EVENTS & FESTIVALS PUMPKIN-PICKING FARMS HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES

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2017

2017

TOP 5

WINNER

Medical

Mental Health

Primary Care Pediatrics Dentistry Therapeutic Services & Specialty Clinics Rehabilitation Surgery

Inpatient & Outpatient Mental Health Community Based Acute Treatment Children’s Wellness Initiative

Education Kennedy Day School Franciscan Family Child Care

30 Warren Street Brighton, MA 02135 617-254-3800 FranciscanChildrens.org

Infants • Toddlers • Preschool Full Time and Part Time

Kindercam in every classroom!

We have cameras in every classroom that parents can log onto throughout the day and watch their children at the center!

Cummings Center in Beverly Enrolling Now (978) 969-6679

• Structured curriculum beginning at 15 months • All staff members are infant/child CPR and first-aid certified • Weekly visits from The Story Teller, Music Man, My First Yoga, The Tumble Bus, Happy Feet and Hoop It (kids basketball)

Owner-operated since 1994

Very competitive rates

www.thelearningzoneonline.com.

Woburn (781) 932-1070 23 Warren Ave. 2

Framingham (508) 872-3600 63 Fountain St.

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

Belmont (617) 489-1161 279 Belmont St.

Waltham (781) 891-3600 295 Weston St.

Weston Beverly (781) 642-6787 (978) 969-6679 101 River Road 600 Cummings Ctr

W hy An I n d e p e n d e nt Sc ho o l ?

Small Classes • Commitment to Diversity • Performing Arts Programs • Sense of Community Afternoon Programs • Athletics • Dedicated Teachers • Individual Attention • Travel Programs High Academic Standards • Visual Arts Programs • Experiential Learning

A group of Greater Boston independent schools invites you to attend Open House Programs SCHOOL NAME •The Rivers School •Boston University Academy •Commonwealth School •The Learning Project •Fay School •Dana Hall School •Newton Montessori School •Park Street School •Boston Trinity Academy •Noble and Greenough School •The Sage School •The Cambridge School of Weston •Delphi Academy •Montrose School •The Newman School •Meridian Academy •Beaver Country Day School •St. Sebastian’s School •Belmont Day School •German International School •Meadowbrook School •Pingree School •The Roxbury Latin School •Waldorf High School of Mass Bay •Brimmer and May School •Chapel Hill-Chauncy Hall School •Dedham Country Day School •The Fessenden School •Shady Hill School-Lower School •Shady Hill School-Middle School •The Woodward School •Kingsley Montessori School •The Rashi School •Charles River School •Concord Academy •BB&N Lower School •BB&N Middle and Upper School •Dexter Southfield School •Lexington Montessori School •Thayer Academy •Waldorf School of Lexington •The Advent School •Atrium School •Cambridge Montessori School •Jackson Walnut Park Schools •The Park School •Tenacre Country Day School •Derby Academy •Adams Montessori School •Cambridge Friends School •Milton Academy K-8 Division •The Chestnut Hill School •Lesley Ellis School •Newton Country Day School •The Winsor School •Fayerweather Street School •Thacher Montessori School •The Fenn School

CITY/TOWN Weston Boston Boston Boston Southborough Wellesley Newton Boston Boston Dedham Foxboro Weston Milton Medfield Boston Boston Chestnut Hill Needham Belmont Boston Weston South Hamilton West Roxbury Belmont Chestnut Hill Waltham Dedham West Newton Cambridge Cambridge Quincy Boston Dedham Dover Concord Cambridge Cambridge Brookline Lexington Braintree Lexington Boston Watertown Cambridge Newton Brookline Wellesley Hingham Quincy Cambridge Milton Chestnut Hill Arlington Newton Boston Cambridge Milton Concord

AGES AND GRADES 11-18 years (6-12) 13-18 years (9-12) 14-18 years (9-12) 5-12 years (K-6) 5-15 years (K-9) 10-18 years (girls 5-12) 15mo-12 years (T-6) 2-12 (Toddler-6) 11-18 years (6-12) 11-18 years (7-12) 3.2-14 years (PK-8) 14-18 years (9-12) 2.9-13 years (PK-8) 11-18 years (girls 6-12) 13-19 years (7-12) 11-18 years (6-12) 11-18 years (6-12) 12-18 years (boys 7-12) 4-14 years (PK-8) 3-18 (PK-12) 4-14 years (Jr.K-8) 14-18 years (9-12) 12-18 years (boys 7-12) 14-18 years (9-12) 4-18 years (PK-12) 14-18 years (9-PG) 4-14 years (PK-8) 4-15 years (boys PK-9) 4-10 years (PK-4) 11-14 years (5-8) 11-18 years (6-12) 2-12 years (T-6) 5-14 years (K-8) 4-14 years (PK-8) 14-18 years (9-12) 4-12 years (PK-6) 12-18 years (7-12) 4-18 years (PK-12) 18 mos-14 years (T-8) 10-18 years (5-12) 6wks-14 years (PK-8) 4-12 years (PK-6) 4-14 years (PK-8) 21 mos. to 14 years (T-8) 18 mo -12 years (T-6) 4-14 years (PK-8) 4-12 years (PK-6) 4-15 years (PK-8) 15 mo -12 yrs (T-6) 4-14 years (PK-8) 5 -14 years (K-8) 3-12 years (Beginners-6) 2.9-14 years (PS-8) 10-18 years (girls 5-12) 10-18 years (girls 5-12) 3-14 years (PK-8) 15 mos. to 14 years (T-8) 9-15 years (boys 4-9)

OPEN HOUSE DATE(S) : TIME(S) PHONE Sun., September 17: 1-3:30 pm v Sat., Oct. 28: 9-12 pm 781-235-9300 Sun., October 1 & Sun., November 5: 1-3 pm 617-358-2493 617-266-7525 Tue., October 3: 6-8:30 pm v Sun., Nov. 5: 2:30-5 pm 617-266-8427 Tue., October 3: 4-6 pm v Sat., October 21: 11-2 pm 508-490-8201 Thurs., October 5: 10-12 pm v Sun., Nov. 5: 1-3:30 pm Thurs. Oct. 5: 5-7 pm (MS) v Sun., Oct. 22 (MS/US): 1-3 pm 781-235-3010 Wed., Oct. 11: (T-PK) 8:30-9:30 am v Sun., Oct. 22 (K-6) 1-3 pm 617-969-4488 617-523-7577 Wed., October 11: 9-11 am v Mon., Oct. 23: 6-7:30 pm Sat., October 14: 12-2 pm v Tues. Nov.,14: 6:30-8:30 pm 617-364-3700 781-320-7100 Sat., October 14: 9-12 pm v Tue., Dec. 5 : 6:30-9 pm Sat., October 14: 9-11 am & Wed., Nov. 8: 8:30-10:30 am 508-543-9619 Sun., October 15: 1-4:30 pm v Sat. November 4: 9-12:30 pm 781-642-8650 Sun., October 15 and Sun., December 3: 12-2 pm 617-333-9610 508-359-2423 Sun., October 15: 11-1 pm v Thurs., Nov. 30: 7-9 pm Sun., October 15: 11-1 pm 617-267-4530 Wed., October 18 & Mon., December 11: 6:50-8:30 pm 617-277-1118 617-738-2725 Thurs., October 19: 7-8:30 pm v Fri., Nov. 10: 8:15-11:30 am Thurs., Oct. 19: 5:30-8:30 pm v Thurs., Nov. 30: 7-8:30 pm 781-449-5200 Sat., Oct. 21: 9:30-11:30 am 617-484-3078 Sat., Oct. 21: 10-1 pm v Thurs., Nov. 16: 8:30-11:30 am 617-783-2600 781-894-1193 Sat., October 21: 1-3 pm v Tue., Dec. 5: 9-10:30 am Sat., October 21: 10-2 pm 978-468-4415 Sat., October 21: 10-1:30 pm v Sun., Nov. 5: 12:30-4 pm 617-477-6317 Sat., October 21: 1-3 pm 617-489-6600 Sun., October 22 (Lower School) 1 pm, (MS/US) 2 pm 617-738-8695 Sun., October 22 & Sun., November 5: 12:30-3 pm 781-314-0800 781-329-0850 Sun., October 22: 1-3 pm v Thurs., Nov. 9: 8:30-10:30 am Sun., October 22 : 1-3 pm v Tue., Nov. 14: (PK-K) 6:30-8 617-630-2300 Sun., October 22: 2-4 pm 617-520-5200 Tue., November 7: 7-9 pm 617-520-5200 Sunday, October 22: 12-2 pm 617-773-5610 617-226-4927 Tue., October 24: 8:45-10:45 am v Sun., Nov. 5: 1-3 pm 781-355-7318 Tue., October 24: 9:30 am v Sun., Nov., 19: 10:30 am Sat., October 28 and Sun., November 12: 2-4 pm 508-785-8213 Sat., October 28: 9 am-1 pm 978-402-2250 Sat., October 28: 12-2:30 pm 617-800-2471 Sat., October 28: 9-12 pm (US), 10-12 pm (MS) 617-800-2136 617-454-2721 Sat., Oc. 28 (Gr. 6-12): 9-12 pm v Sat., Nov. 5 (PK-5): 9 -11 pm 781-862-8571 Sat., October 28: 10-12 pm v Tues., Jan. 9: 9:30-11 am Sat., October 28 (US) & Sat., Nov. 4 (MS): 9:30-12 pm 781-664-2221 Sat., October 28: 10-12 pm v Sat., January 20: 10-12 pm 781-863-1062 617-742-0520 Sun., October 29: 1-3 pm v Wed., Dec. 6: 9-11 am 617-923-4156 Sun., Oct. 29: 1-3 pm v Fri., Nov. 17: 9-10:30 am Sun., October 29: 1-3 pm 617-492-3410 Sun., October 29: 12-2 pm v Wed., Nov. 8: 5:30-7:30 pm 617-202-9772 Sun., October 29: 12-3 pm 617-277-2456 781-235-2282 Sun., Oct., 29: 1-3 pm v Tues., Nov. 18: 8:15-10:15 am Thurs., November 2 and Thurs., December 7: 9-11am 781-749-0746 Sat., November 4 & Sat., January 20: 10-12 pm 617-773-8200 Sat., November 4: 1:30-4 pm 617-354-3880 Sat., November 4: 1:30-3:30 pm 617-898-2509 Sun., November 5: 1-3 pm 617-566-4394 Sun., November 5: 1-3 pm (PS-8) v Wed., Nov. 15: 7 pm (MS) 781-641-1346 Sun., November 5: 1-3 pm 617-244-4246 Fri., November 10: 8:30-10:30 am 617-735-9503 617-876-4746 Sat., November 18: 1-4 pm v Sat., Jan. 6: 10-12 pm Sat., Nov. 18: 10:30-12 pm v Thurs., Dec. 7: 9:30-11 am 617-361-2522 Sun., November 19: 1-3 pm 978-369-5800

WEB ADDRESS rivers.org buacademy.org commschool.org learningproject.org fayschool.org danahall.org newtonmontessori.org parkstreetschool.org bostontrinity.org nobles.edu sageschool.org csw.org delphiboston.org montroseschool.org newmanboston.org meridianacademy.org bcdschool.org stsebs.org belmontday.org gisbos.org meadowbrook-ma.org pingree.org roxburylatin.org waldorfhighschool.org brimmer.org chch.org dedhamcountryday.org fessenden.org shs.org shs.org thewoodwardschool.org kingsley.org rashi.org charlesriverschool.org concordacademy.org bbns.org bbns.org dextersouthfield.org lexmontessori.org thayer.org thewaldorfschool.org adventschool.org atrium.org cambridgemontessori.org jwpschools.org parkschool.org tenacrecds.org derbyacademy.org adamsmontessori.org cfsmass.org milton.edu tchs.org lesleyellis.org newtoncountryday.org winsor.edu fayerweather.org thacherschool.org fenn.org

CALL LISTED NUMBERS OR VISIT WEB SITES FOR MORE INFORMATION AND DIRECTIONS. The schools listed above do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity or family composition in their admissions, financial aid, or in the administration of their educational policies.

October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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Contents

October 2017 Volume 33 • Number 2

F E AT U R E

18

Understanding IEPs

Would Your Child Benefit from Having One?

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E 6 Family F.Y.I

Special Needs Guide Backpack Fit Pizza Anyone?

10 Out and About

The Thrill is On

12 Bookshelf

16 Family Matters Is That Me Yelling?

22 Family Calendar

Open House Events......28 Pumpkin Patches.........32

What’s in a Name?

34 Singleminded

Diverse Books

14 Family Cents Allow Kids to Make Dumb

4

Spending Decisions

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

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Boston Parent 841 Worcester Street Suite 344 Natick, MA 01760 Tel/Fax 617-522-1515 Visit us online at BostonParentsPaper.com PUBLISHERS Robert and Tracy McKean ART DIRECTOR Debbi Murzyn

Directories 17 Farms 25 Schools & Childcare Centers 30 Classes and Enrichment 33 Entertainment & Party Needs

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jean Abernathy CALENDAR EDITOR Andrea Michelson ADVERTISING SALES Holly Castro, David Morney

Boston Parents Paper is published monthly by Parenting Media Inc. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer.

60,000 copies of Boston Parents Paper are distributed to more than 1600 locations in the region. Past issues are available on our website, www.BostonParentsPaper.com Send letters to the editor or article submissions to editor@bostonparent. com.

Submit events to our Family Friendly Calendar at bostonparentspaper. com/event/

F abulous F all

FasHIoNs! TM

2017

HALLOWEEN COSTUME HEADQUARTERS!

WINNER

SHOP US FIRST!

We have the best values for for fall & winter clothes for all ages

A destination worth the trip! Open 7 days a week.

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Make a difference in the lives of your patients while working close to home!

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• Full Time, Per Diem and Weekend Baylor positions available in the Greater Boston and South of Boston areas • Qualifications: licensed to practice in MA, minimum 1 year experience, home care experience preferred We are an equal opportunity employer To apply and learn more please visit:

careers.vnacare.org

BUY TICKETS AT BOCHCENTER.ORG

BOCH CENTER BOX OFFICE 800.982.2787

GROUPS OF 10+ CALL 617.532.1116 Boch Center is a trademark of The Wang Center for the Performing Arts, Inc.

October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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✼ Family F.Y.I. Your Child with Special Needs Our 2017 edition of Your Child with Special Needs is filled with information on how to help kids with special needs thrive, what to look for in a mental health care provider, and valuable local resources and support groups. Available online at BostonParentsPaper.com – just click on Your Child with Special Needs in the “Our Magazines” tab.

LEAVE IT TO US

O

ctober is magical in Massachusetts with a bounty of fall foliage. If you’re looking for colorful spots to take in the beauty of autumn, check out our guide to the 12 best towns in New England for witnessing the changing colors: BostonParentsPaper.com/fallfoliage. From Shelburne Falls to Vermont’s Addison County and Maine’s Camden, there are places near and far to take in the splendor.

Importance of Proper Backpack Fit

W

ith the new school year in full swing, Peak Physical Therapy & Sports Performance, a South Shore practice, is providing a little education on the longterm effects of carrying a heavy backpack. “We’ve all seen those comical pictures of children carrying backpacks that look as though they outweigh them but there’s nothing funny about the damage a too heavy backpack can do to a child’s spine,” said Eric Edelman, PT and owner.

5 basic tips for a proper backpack fit: • Backpacks should weigh only 10-15% of your child’s bodyweight; i.e. if they weigh 100 pounds, their backpack should carry 10-15 pounds of books • Heaviest books should be kept closest to the body and the lightest books furthest away • Straps should be adjusted properly so that the backpack sits no lower than the top of the buttocks • It’s ideal to purchase a backpack that has additional support straps that go across the chest and waist to help evenly distribute the weight • Wear the backpack using both straps and not slung over one shoulder

ACCIDENTAL OVERDOSE MEDS

A

By Meg McCabe, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Boston Children’s Hospital

ccording to a study done by Safe Kids Worldwide, approximately 160 kids go to the emergency room every day as a result of accidental medication overdoses. In 2013 alone, 60,000 kids were seen in the hospital for ingesting items like prescription drugs, pain relievers and vitamins. In most cases, these medications were left in places accessible to young children such as unlocked cabinets, on the floor, in purses, diaper bags and pill boxes. Some kids can even find their way into “child proof” pill bottles. Unfortunately, childproof drug packaging is generally not enough to keep children safe. Of these 60,000 children, the majority of incidents happened when the kids were left alone, away from adult supervision.

When a young child explores the nooks and crannies of their home, it’s easy to understand why these ingestions occur. Some pills and liquids are colorful and even smell or taste good- they can easily be confused as candy or juice by little ones. This is why it is important to protect your children and grandchildren from accidental overdose by keeping these items locked and out of reach or “up and away.” It is crucial that adults put medicine away immediately after using them. Do not leave medications out in the open.

6

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

Another way to prevent accidental overdose of medications is to purchase baby-proofing items that will prevent children from accessing hazardous materials and medications. For instance, sliding locks on lower cabinets can prevent accidental overdose. Purchasing a medication lock box is also an option, which will safely store medications in a locked container that requires a key or combination code to open.

Keeping medications “up and away,” utilizing baby proofing strategies, and implementing vigil adult supervision is the safest way to prevent accidental overdose in children.

Parents, education plays an essential role in your child’s safety. Be sure to educate your child’s grandparents on medication safety so they may also take the appropriate measures to protect your children within their home. When your child is old enough, be sure to talk to them about medication safety too.

Finally, it is important to always be prepared for an emergency. Post the poison control number (1-800-222-1222) on your refrigerator and save it into your mobile devices.

“The best hands-on Museum I’ve seen.”

usscm.org | 617-426-1812 • Interactive exhibits for all ages!

• Open 7 days a week • Admission by donation

Kahal B’raira

Get Ahead this School Year with Brain Training

Troubled by executive function struggles, ADHD, autism, anxiety, or learning/behavioral problems? We provide safe, effective, drug-free treatment that starts with a quantitative EEG brain map. Once we pinpoint discordant rhythms in the brain, our neurofeedback sessions correct brain imbalances and promote sustained improvements in function, resulting in a substantial reduction or elimination of symptoms.

We host free educational workshops: visit us online for details!

Hunamistic Judaism in Greater Boston Since 1975

ow Call N ree F a r fo lt Consu

Jolene Ross, Ph.D., Director

Licensed Psychologist | Over 30 Years of Experience

781.444.9115 • Needham

www.AdvancedNeurotherapy.com

Upcoming at The Carle PLEASE JOIN US.

Visitors are welcome at all events and services.

Check our website for dates.

October 15: Celebrate Sukkot with us!

Humanistic Judaism celebrates Jewish culture, identity, and community in a fun, welcoming environment.

Inspiration Day at The Carle!

October 7, 10:00 am–4:00 pm Free with Museum Admission Join these celebrated artists from Collecting Inspiration: Contemporary Illustrators and Their Heroes for a fun day of drawing, storytimes, presentations, and book signings!

Sophie Blackall Bryan Collier Laurie Keller LeUyen Pham Robin Preiss Glasser Mo Willems

Sandra Boynton Tony DiTerlizzi Loren Long Jerry Pinkney Lane Smith

See www.carlemuseum.org for schedule.

Learn more:

www.communityofchoice.org 617-431-3994 Pre-K to 9 • Bar/Bat Mitzvah Study • Adult Ed

Lovecat. © 2017 Sandra Boynton.

125 West Bay Road, Amherst MA

413.559.6300

www.carlemuseum.org October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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✼ Family F.Y.I.

65

That’s how many apples the average person eats in one year, which seems like a lot but considering the old adage is “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” we’re all falling about 300 short! Help your family fulfill their apple fix this fall by heading to one of our fabulous area apple picking farms. To help you map out which spot is best (and closest) to you, head over to our convenient list of places to pick at BostonParentsPaper.com/applepicking. But, hey, leave a few apples for us!

Trick or Treat

T

his October, UNICEF USA is calling on kids to Trickor-Treat for UNICEF and make a difference in the lives of their peers around the world.

Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF – one of America’s longest-running youth volunteer initiatives – encourages kids to bring the spirit of giving to Halloween and go door-todoor with the signature orange Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF boxes to collect lifesaving donations for kids who need more than candy.

An American tradition since 1950, Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF has raised $175 million+ dollars to provide children around the world with medicine, nutrition, clean water, education and emergency relief.

For more information, visit www. trickortreatforunicef.org.

Pizza Anyone?

C 1

reative things to consider whether making pizza at home or dining out at California Pizza Kitchen with Brian Sullivan, SVP of Culinary Innovation.

Have a color challenge – One of the easiest ways to ensure you’re eating a healthy meal is to include a variety of colors – colorful veggies, that is – on your plate. Turn this into some healthy competition by seeing how many different colors each family member can fit on their pizza. Bell peppers, eggplant, carrots, Brussels sprouts – the options are endless!

2

Experiment with the crust – Sure, you need a good dough to hold all of your delicious pizza toppings, but instead of the typical crust, you can try a crispy thin crust, a healthier whole wheat crust or low-carb cauliflower crust. If you’re making pizza at home, most of these varieties are available fresh or even frozen at your favorite grocery store. At California Pizza Kitchen, we also offer a delicious gluten-free crust option.

3

Get saucy – Who says pizza has to have tomato sauce? Try pesto, hummus, BBQ The original BBQ chicken pizza sauce, extra virgin olive oil or no sauce at all.

Getting creative with flavors and textures ensures you’ll never get bored.

4

Play with protein – The classic sausage and pepperoni are delicious, but try adding grilled chicken, steak, roasted salmon, sautéed shrimp or even marinated tofu to your pizza instead. Just remember to properly cook the protein before adding it to the pizza to make sure your meat is cooked thoroughly and your crust doesn’t burn.

5

Get inspired – Recreate your favorite CPK recipe and add your own personal touch. If you love the Carne Asada, The Original BBQ Chicken, or Wild Mushroom Pizza at California Pizza Kitchen, you can try to recreate it at home with the “Taste of the Seasons” cookbook! It’s packed with some of CPK’s favorite recipes from CPK’s kitchen and creative ways to use the season’s freshest ingredients.

The Great Pumpkin P

icking the perfect pumpkin is a little easier when you understand the difference between popular varieties. If you’re baking a pie, pick an Amish Pie or Baby Pam Sugar Pie varietal. Carving contest? Go for a Cinderella, which was reportedly cultivated by the Pilgrims and served at the second Thanksgiving. For a list of pumpkin patches, head here: BostonParentsPaper.com/pumpkins.

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Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

NEW THIS YEAR Ride the Soaring Eagle Zip Ride and witness 5,000 pumpkins from 115 feet in the air.

presents

October 5 – November 5

and don’t miss SPOOKY ZOO: October 28 and 29 Trick or Treat with the Animals!

Kids 12 and Under in Costume ½ Price

For more information visit rwpzoo.org

IN THE HEIGHTS “SPLASHY, PEPPY, SUGAR-SPRINKLED HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT.” – THE NEW YORK TIMES

October 27 - November 19

NOV. 28 - DEC. 10

Music & Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Book by Quiara Alegria Hudes Conceived by Lin-Manuel Miranda

wheelockfamilytheatre.org 617-879-2300 Recommended for ages 10+ PROFESSIONAL, ACCESSIBLE THEATRE FOR EVERY GENERATION!

BUY TICKETS AT BOCHCENTER.ORG

BOCH CENTER BOX OFFICE 800.982.2787

GROUPS OF 10+ CALL 617.532.1116 Boch Center is a trademark of The Wang Center for the Performing Arts, Inc.

October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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✼ Out and About Barrett’s Haunted Mansion is a Halloween mainstay, promising all kinds of bewitching fun for those who love to be spooked. Part of its appeal is that no matter whether you’re inside the mansion or out, there’s always something lurking in the darkness. Never let your guard down; Barrett ’s Haunted Mansion will keep you on your toes at all times. Ages 13 and up. 1235 Bedford St., Abington, 781-871-4573; bhmansion.com.

Whether you are going on the haunted hayride or walking through any of the haunted Halloween scream parks at Witch’s Woods, you’ll never be alone … and we’re not talking about the other revelers who populate this spooky spot. In every shadow creepy creatures await, hoping to stir up thrills and chills as you approach. 79 Powers Road, Westford, 978-692-3033; witchswoods.com/the-woods.

There will be no relaxing on the 90-minute Haunted Harbor Cruise, which hits the water during the month of October. The “crew” will tell you stories that will make your skin crawl, but don’t get too caught up in their tales; there are monsters walking about. 24 Congress St., Salem, 978-825-0001; mahicruises.com/haunted.

The Thrill is On!

H

alloween is creeping up on us yet again and there’s no better place to entertain your little guys and ghouls this time of year than the Boston area.

If you’re looking for some hauntingly fun events with different degrees of scare, visit one of these haunted attractions in Massachusetts – if you dare!

The Haunted Salem Magic Show will not only amaze, but terrify you at the same time. Enjoy this interactive 80-minute show during the month of October for a side of supernatural scare with your hocus pocus. St. Peter’s Church Hall, 24 Saint Peter’s St., Salem, 888-3403584; salemmagicshowstore.com.

Get your exercise in by embarking on a 90-minute walking tour led by Boston Ghost Tour. Not only will you learn about the historic city of Boston, but you’ll hear some of the city’s most famous ghost tales. At the end of the walk, get the skinny on different secrets that are rumored to lay under the city. Boston Common, 617605-3635; hauntedboston.com.

Factory of Terror promises to scare you out of your mind with five spooky attractions all in one place. It is all indoors and they advise thrill seekers to enter at their own risk. From the name alone, we’d advise littles stay home. 201 Graft on St., Worcester, 508-754-4077 and 33 Pearl St., Fall River, 508-324-1095; factoryofterror. com.

Haunted Halloween Nights at Hammond Castle is an annual tradition for those who are brave enough to explore the spine-tingling halls. This medieval castle was built between 1926 and 1929 for John Jays Hammond Jr. as a wedding present to his wife. Its rich history sets the scene for a bone-chilling night. Tour the castle and the 24 rooms that are said to be haunted during select October dates. 80 Hesperus Ave., Gloucester, 978-283-2080; hammondcastle.org.

Hammond Castle

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Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

“…Mary was a bookworm. Sometimes when her siblings went out to play, she’d stay at home reading. Other times when she joined them, as often as not she’d eventually slip away to a secluded spot where they’d find her later, engrossed in a book.”

— From A World More Bright: The Life of Mary Baker Eddy

by Isabel Ferguson and Heather Vogel Frederick

FIRST and THIRD TUESDAY of each month

10:30-11:15 AM In this children’s program, young visitors will not only listen to stories but also engage in playful activities. Recommended for bookworms 5 years old and younger with adults.

No registration required.

200 Massachusetts Ave., Boston 02115 For more information, please contact our Educational Programs Coordinator 617-450-7203 | palladinom@mbelibrary.org

DOMESTIC PLACEMENTS Live In or Out

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Premium Packages starting at $78!

Special Needs • Chefs/Cooks Eldercare • Drivers TM

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2017

December 14-17

TOP 5

1-888-453-2277

Shubert Theatre

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Personal & Professional Service

BUY TICKETS AT BOCHCENTER.ORG

BOCH CENTER BOX OFFICE 866.348.9738

GROUPS OF 10+ CALL 617.532.1116 Boch Center is a trademark of The Wang Center for the Performing Arts, Inc.

October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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✼ Bookshelf

By Allyson Bogie MaryAnn Ann Scheuer Byand Mary Scheuer

Diverse Books A window into the lives of others.

W

e read to know that we are not alone and to hear another person’s story. Because stories help us see into the lives of other people, as well as into our own lives, it’s vitally important that we share with our children a wide variety of books— especially fresh, contemporary voices. We connect to characters; we feel their pain and delight in their joy.

It’s more than stories, though--it’s the conversations that stories can start. Here are a selection of new books to share and read alongside your children.

MIDDLE GRADE (AGES 9-13) “Amina’s Voice,” by Hena Khan (Salaam Reads / Simon & Schuster; 208 pp.; $16.99; ages 9-11). As Amina starts middle school, everything seems to be changing fast with both her friends and family. When her mosque is vandalized, she starts to thinks more deeply about her Muslim identity, her courage to stand up in front of others, and the support of her family, friends and community. Amina’s voice and feelings resonates strongly in this touching novel.

“The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora,” by Pablo Cartaya (Viking / Penguin; 256 pp.; $16.99; ages 9-13). Every Sunday, 13-year-old Arturo joins his extended CubanAmerican family at their restaurant La Cocina de la Isla.

When a shady land developer threatens to put up flashy high rise condos, Arturo joins forces with his cousins and friends to fight back. Cartaya delightfully navigates Arturo’s awkwardness, humor and conviction as he develops his first crush and fights for his family’s restaurant.

“The First Rule of Punk,” by Celia C. Pérez (Viking / Penguin; 336 pp.; $16.99; ages 9-13). María Luisa wears Chuck Taylors, listens to punk rock, makes zines, and goes by the nickname Malú. She’s devastated when she has to move to Chicago, leaving behind her dad and his record store. At her new strongly Latino school, Malú must navigate finding new friends, balancing her

12

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

Mexican culture with her interests, and speaking out against unfair rules. A fun, fresh story about claiming your own style.

“Someday Birds,” by Sally J. Pla (HarperCollins; 336 pp.; $16.99; ages 9-12). Charlie and his family will stay with me a long time. Charlie’s autism and obsessive compulsive disorder makes his cross-country trip with his siblings difficult, but they are on a mission to visit their father in the hospital. Charlie is sure that finding all of the birds on the list he created with his father will ensure that his father recovers. A touching, heartfelt journey.

“Patina,” by Jason Reynolds (Atheneum / Simon & Schuster; 240 pp.; $16.99; ages 9-13). After Patina (Patty) reacts to coming in 2nd place, Coach assigns her to the 4x800 relay team.

Meanwhile, Patty has to juggle being responsible for her little sister, feeling out of place at her private school, and taking care of her mom who’s “got the sugar” (diabetes). Reynolds’ writing explodes during race scenes and he authentically captures Patty’s inner voice. I loved the track and teamwork elements of this story, with the importance of supporting each other and being in step with one another.

YOUNG ADULT (AGES 14-18) “The 57 Bus: A True Story of Two Teenagers and the Crime That Changed Their Lives,” by Dashka Slater (Farrar, Straus and Giroux / Macmillan; 320 pp.; $17.99; ages 14-adult). In 2013, a teen set fire to another student’s skirt during their bus ride home. Was it goofing around? Was it a hate crime against an LGBTQ youth?

Journalist and author Dashka Slater provides a nuanced, thoughtful look at this complex intersection of two lives, helping readers challenge their own assumptions about prejudice, justice and prosecution.

“When Dimple Met Richi,” by Sandya Menon (Simon Pulse; 380 pp.; $17.99; ages 14-18). This sparkling romantic comedy about two first-generation Indian Americans meeting at a computer coding camp the summer before

they head to college is set in motion when their parents set up an arrangedmarriage and it backfires in a big way. Both Dimple and Richi grapple with their aspirations, plans and identities, giving this charming romance novel depth that will resonate with many teens.

“The Hate You Give,”

by Angie Thomas (Balzer + Bray / HarperCollins; 464 pp.; $17.99; ages 13-adult). Sixteen-year-old Starr navigates through two very different worlds: her home in a poor black urban neighborhood, and her suburban, privileged private school. When she witnesses the unprovoked police shooting of her best friend and his death becomes national news, she must cope with her personal grief and the public turmoil. Thomas shows how the personal is politi-

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Mary Ann Scheuer is a teacher librarian. Find more books Mary Ann recommends sharing with children at her blog, Great Kid Books, http://greatkidbooks.blogspot. com.

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✼ Family Cents

Allow Kids to Make Dumb Spending Decisions — But Only a Few

By Aaron Crowe

A

s parents, it’s a standard part of the job description to let children fail every once in awhile.

Fall down, brush yourself off and get back up again. Resilience is a good skill to learn.

Even in adulthood, learning from your mistakes is a good trait.

The same is true with managing money. I don’t mean letting children fail so much that they’re reluctant to manage money at all, but enough to show them that money is limited and they should consider how they use it.

Earning an allowance at a young age is a start. But what I think really kicks it into high gear for kids is when they start spending money — or want to spend it — on their own. It’s one thing to go to the store and have your parents buy you clothes because you’re outgrowing everything in your closet.

It’s another to go to the mall with your friends to buy your own clothes with your own money.

For my daughter, this lesson is kicking in at age 13. And since it’s her money, I’m letting her make some dumb spending decisions — up to a point.

After buying her the necessities of life, it’s up to her to pay for any extras she wants such as a shopping trip at the mall for a poster to decorate her room or a boba tea.

This has got her more interested in doing her weekly chores at home and earning her allowance, along with seeking extra work as a dog walker and babysitter in our neighborhood.

Along the way she’s made a few poor purchases that I think she might admit don’t make much sense afterward. Nicknacks from her hobbies, such as anime, are losing their popularity in our house.

They’re small and easily get lost or stepped on and broken, and the initial

14

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

glow of a purchase doesn’t last too long when they get home.

A few bigger examples: But some expenses can be big enough that the regret is that much bigger if you don’t get as much joy out of them as you thought you would.

An iPod is one example. About two years ago I gave my daughter my old iPod after I bought a new phone and didn’t need the iPod anymore. She used it to get online and to text friends, and we limited her time on it daily.

of her own money because she made the mistake of letting someone else drop and break her expensive gadget.

At least I don’t want her to have to learn from that mistake again until she graduates from high school.

Then she’s no longer a “kid” and has a whole lifetime of spending mistakes ahead of her to learn from.

Here’s another example. When I was a kid I really wanted a motocross bike.

I didn’t want just any motorcross bike, but one designed by a friend of a friend who used rebuilt bike parts to make

It’s one thing to go to the store and have your parents buy you clothes because you’re outgrowing everything in your closet. It’s another to go to the mall with your friends to buy your own clothes with your own money.

We told her not to take it outside of the house, such as to a friend’s house, because if she lost it or it broke, we wouldn’t replace it. One day we relented and she took it to a friend’s house to take some photos. A younger child asked if she could look at it, and my daughter gave it to her to hold. The child dropped it and the iPod broke.

My daughter knew the rule — she’d have to buy a new iPod herself if she wanted one. She used some money from her savings account and worked for months to earn money doing chores at home, and finally she had enough money to buy an iPod. I wouldn’t call it a dumb spending decision on her part, because it was something she really wanted and is her main way of going online. But is it worth the $500 or so that she could have avoided spending by not giving it to a 3-year-old to hold? That’s one reason why we’re now holding tight to the rule of only using the iPod when my wife and I are around.

I don’t want her to be in the situation again of having to spend another $500

bikes. It cost about $100, which I had to come up with myself.

I had a paper route at the time, so I had money coming in that I could spend freely. My dad advised me against buying such a bike, saying it might not be the best designed and might not last long.

I bought the bike anyway, saving up for a few months to buy it. I outgrew the bike within a year and regretted spending so much of my hard-earned money on something that ultimately didn’t give me as much satisfaction as I had hoped it would.

Was that the spending mistake that would send me on my way to being a frugal spender the rest of my life? I doubt it. But it’s one financial mistake I remember making early on, and I’d like to think that it taught me to be a better shopper and to value my money more.

Aaron Crowe is a freelance journalist who specializes in writing about personal finance. He writes for a number of websites, including his own at CashSmarter.com.

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15

✼ Family Matters

Is That Me Yelling?

By Rona Renner, RN QUESTION: “My son gets anxious when things don’t go as planned. I get so frustrated, like the other day when we were heading out the door and he realized he forgot to do his math homework.

He had a meltdown, and refused to go to school. I yelled at him, which only made things worse. It’s a terrible way to start the day. What can I do?”

—Ian, father of a 10 year old.

ANSWER: Ian, you are not alone! If you find yourself yelling at your son most days, it’s time to understand more about why you yell. Maybe you were raised by a yeller, and you can’t seem to kick the habit of letting your feelings spill out and land on your child. Or perhaps you’re stressed and rushed in the morning and have temporarily misplaced your compassion and kindness. You may be raising a sensitive and distractible child who is not good at organization and who has strong reactions. Perhaps you can see that your mood had a lot to do with your yelling at your son’s mistake.

You can learn to stop yelling at your kids!

Most parents yell at their children occasionally. Losing it with our kids comes with the territory of parenting—we’re tired, they’re tired, it happens. Often you can apologize, laugh together, and get back to your patient approach to child rearing. But if you are yelling just like your mother used to yell, or so hard that your throat hurts, then it’s time to focus on how to reconnect with yourself and your child.

Fortunately, we can learn from our mistakes and change our habits and conditioning. It’s never too late to start fresh.

Am I yelling or just being firm?

When parents yell—regardless of their volume—they are often angry or frustrated and have lost some degree

16

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

of self-control. The outcome is often to express frustration and let kids know that they had better listen “or else!”

In contrast, the assertive communication you use thoughtfully as a part of the way you discipline is not the same as yelling. There are times you may need to be firm to get a child, who tends to tune his parents out, to listen to requests.

Most people agree that it is appropriate to yell sometimes, especially in dangerous situations when someone might get hurt—to stop a child who is reaching for the hot stove or about to dash into a busy street.

6

Think about how you can connect with your child so that respectful communication comes more easily to both of you. “We have a problem here, how shall we deal with it?”

7

Work on setting limits and establishing family rules. Being proactive is easier on everyone.

8

Get enough sleep so your irritability is lower and your patience is higher.

An easy way to remember to not react intensely is to do the ABCDEs when you feel yourself getting angry: A—Ask your self what you are feeling and thinking.

Here are a few tips to help you begin on the path to yelling less:

B—Breathe. Take some easy breaths as you sense your body. This will help to lower your stress response.

1

C—Calm yourself. Wait till you have calmed down before you communicate with your child.

Ask yourself, “Why do I want to yell less?” Reflecting on the consequences of losing it will help you change. Is your child afraid of you? Does yelling causes a distance between you? Are you teaching your child how to solve problems?

2

Think about the reasons you use yelling as a form of discipline.

Maybe you don’t know what else to do, or yelling is what you learned from your parents.

3

Become aware of the signs of stress and anger in your body. Do you get warm, does your breathing become rapid, do you clench your jaw? Notice your thoughts and feelings when your child does something that bugs you. Replace, “He’s so oblivious” with, “He’s just a kid with a lot on his mind.”

4

Learn how your child’s temperament and yours impacts your yelling. Maybe he’s intense and you’re sensitive.

5

Imagine a hidden camera in your house. What would you see?

D—Decide what your child needs. Perhaps he needs a hug, a consequence, encouragement, or a clear boundary.

E—Empathize. Put yourself in your child’s shoes and try to sense what he is feeling or thinking.

If you can’t calm yourself after taking deep breaths, tell your child that you are getting angry and you’ll be back in a minute to figure out how you can solve this problem together. Get yourself a cup of tea and remember that your child is not acting this way to get your goat, he is struggling and needs your guidance.

It’s worth being a little late if you can keep your relationship positive.

Your decision to yell less will allow you to start right now down the path of calm, connection, and peace.

Rona Renner, RN (“Nurse Rona”), is a nurse, a parent educator and a temperament specialist. You can learn more about her at www. nurserona.com

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27 17

9/10/17 12:02 AM

Understanding IEPs

A

By Brian Spero

lot has changed in the educational landscape since most of us parents were in school, however there still remains some mystery and misconceptions surrounding special education and IEPs. Simply put, an IEP stands for Individualized Education Program, and it applies to any child who has been deemed eligible through an official evaluation process to receive special education and related services.

For parents of children with an IEP, it’s fortifying to know the school system is legally obligated to provide a custom-built plan to address a student’s unique educational requirements. But be aware, while the law demands every child be provided a “free appropriate public education,” it is extremely important for parents to become informed of their rights and remain closely involved to ensure the system works to the extent of its purpose and potential.

18

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

Should My Child Be Evaluated?

According to Julie Sinclair of the Federation for Children with Special Needs, the way things typically start for families of young children with special needs or developmental concerns is through Early Intervention (EI). A referral is made and EI comes in to do what Sinclair refers to as a “family focus,” offering families guidance and providing therapy to the child in the natural environment. “If the early intervention professional feels the child may need additional support when turning 3, then they will start the process with the public school,” says Sinclair.

There are generally two broad categories of circumstances where families are compelled to request an evaluation for an IEP: those who have a child who has been diagnosed from a young age with a disability, such

There are generally two broad categories of circumstances where families are compelled to request an evaluation for an IEP: those who have a child who has been diagnosed from a young age with a disability, such as autism or Down syndrome, and those who for one reason or another are concerned that something just isn’t right. as autism or Down syndrome, and those who for one reason or another are concerned that something just isn’t right. While in both cases it is essential to request an evaluation to confirm eligibility for an IEP and assess the needs of the child going into preschool and beyond, when the circumstances are less cut and dry the process can sometimes be difficult and conflicted.

Perhaps your son or daughter isn’t acting the way their siblings did at similar ages or they are overly rough with other kids or exhibit behavior you just don’t understand. In the event you have concerns at any stage of development, Sinclair recommends visiting your doctor and asking for recommendations. The child may need to see a neurologist or other professional who will determine if he meets the criteria that would fall under a disability type.

IEP Eligibility The three general questions asked in the evaluation process are: • Does the child have a disability?

• Is the child not making effective progress because of the disability?

• Does the child require specialized designed instruction to make progress?

The law states that the school has the first right to evaluate, and they are obligated to evaluate every area of suspected disability. Parents know their kids, but they don’t always know how to classify their behavior. It is important to share your diverse concerns with the assigned certified specialist so the most thorough evaluation can be performed.

Shadi Tayarani of the Commonwealth Learning Center, a nonprofit organization specializing in working with students with an identified learning need, agrees accessing support and understanding your rights are essential for navigating the IEP process. “You have to show up as prepared as possible to get the most out of the situation,” says Tayarani.

“Lots of parents don’t know you have the right to look at the testing the school has done two days prior to the (IEP) meeting,” Tayarani continues. “You have to request that – a school isn’t going to automatically send home that testing.” She recommends parents review the material beforehand so they can go in, ask questions and clarify any misunderstanding rather than having pages and pages of testing presented that they’ve never laid eyes on.

More on IEPs IF YOU HAVE A CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

approaching school age or are concerned about a potential learning disability, get up to speed regarding the IEP process. Contact your school district or an agency like Early Intervention. The Federation for Children with Special Needs is also an invaluable resource in educating families of their rights, the services available to them and what to expect step by step throughout the IEP process.

• Become informed and empowered to be an advocate for your kids, especially being aware of your rights.

• Consider the best interests of your child in getting everybody on the IEP team on the same page to form a culture of support and accountability.

• Keep your emotions in check. Bring people you trust to your IEP meeting, such as a grandparent or your family doctor, to get a rounded perspective and help guide productive conversation.

• Think independently and critically, be assertive and unyielding, but also respectful, especially with the school. Building relationships is a cornerstone of success.

• Take advantage of parent training available to you on the service delivery grid in the IEP process.

• Seek support from your local Parent Advisory Council, a committee made up of parents of children with special needs. It’s a great resource for getting advice, sharing connections and learning from others’ experiences.

– Brian Spero

October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

19

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Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

Questioning the Evaluation In the event an IEP is denied or the evaluation doesn’t seem to accurately reflect your child, families have recourse. You have the right to agree to only some of the proposed assessments, ask for additional assessments or request evaluation from an independent provider.

According to Joseph Moldover, a developmental neuropsychologist who frequently works with children with special needs, families often wish to go outside the public school for a more in-depth evaluation from a professional with a higher level of expertise.

“Families also can feel there exists a built-in conflict dealing with an entity responsible for determining whether a child’s needs are getting met and are at the same time responsible for meeting those needs,” Moldover says. “[An outside evaluator] can make recommendations independent of budgetary concerns, political concerns and more purely on the basis of the child’s needs.”

The Least Restrictive Environment Every child is entitled to a free and appropriate education, and that includes the right to have that education in the least restrictive environment. “The least restrictive environment is being educated alongside your typical

peers as much as possible. If that isn’t working, if the student isn’t able to access the education in a general classroom, then we might go to more time outside the classroom or a separate classroom or a separate school,” says Tayarani. “It becomes more separate as the need becomes greater.”

According to Sinclair, it’s about figuring out what the child needs to access learning and how the content can be modified to master skills impacted by the disability. For instance, if you are working with a child who has a visual impairment, that might mean modifying the content by making it bigger and more visible, or by limiting the number of items on the page. The parents, along with a team of educators, school representatives and related service providers, must work together to identify everything from the way the child learns best to how progress will be measured toward meeting goals.

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Continuing Assessment and Advocacy While school districts must reevaluate students with IEPs every three years, reevaluation can and should be conducted more frequently. “It’s not necessarily wise to take a wait-and-see approach,” says Tayarani. She advises parents with concerns to go to their child’s teacher for help and information, and to proceed together in determining the appropriate next steps.

“Things go off the rails at all different times,” says Moldover, adding that bright, hard-working children are often able to compensate and therefore mask developmental issues until the later grades. Moldover says the development of the brain can fail to match up with the demands of the environment at all different times, so it is not uncommon for kids of varying ages who have never been evaluated to have concerns pop up on the radar in middle school or beyond.

While it is important to stay in tune with your child’s progress and thoroughly investigate concerns relating to academic performance, social development or any number of dynamics, Tayarani says she feels schools are increasingly equipped to identify disabilities, thanks to benchmark evaluation assuming a more prominent place in the educational landscape. wshe says.

Going the Distance The clear take-away in all this is the importance as parents or caregivers to know your rights and get the support necessary for successfully navigating the complex and emotional journey of raising a child who has an IEP. “It’s not a sprint, it’s a walk – a walk together and it takes time,” says Sinclair.

As the old saying goes, your kids don’t come with a manual – and that’s a realization most parents of a child with special needs understand all too well. From the first chapter, and all along the way, you have to remember everybody’s story, just like the IEP itself, is unique. It just has to be the right story for your kid. ■ Brian Spero is a freelance writer and parent of a school-age son.

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Saturday, Oct 28, 2017 9:30am—12noon

MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 5-8)

Saturday, Nov 4, 2017 9:30am—12noon

WINTER OPEN HOUSE (US & MS) Monday, Jan 8, 2018 | 5:30pm—8pm

Thayer Academy 745 Washington Street, Braintree, MA 02184 Accessible by the Red Line (Braintree

Station)

October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

21

By Andrea Michelson

THURSDAY OCT. 5

6-10:30pm, Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, R.I. A nighttime display of over 5,000 illuminated jack-olanterns, many of them professionally carved masterpieces.

Through Nov. 5. $1218. 401-785-3510; rwpzoo.org

22

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

BY ERIC KILBY

Jack-OLantern Spectacular

Want more events? Go online today! BostonParentsPaper.com

1 Sunday

3 Tuesday

Topsfield Fair

Peek a Blue Hike

Hours vary, Topsfield Fairgrounds, 207 Boston St., Topsfield. A traditional agricultural fair featuring animals, a giant pumpkin contest, parades, sand sculptures and more. Through Oct. 9. $11 and up. 978887-5000; topsfieldfair.org

11am, Houghton’s Pond, 840 Hillside St., Milton. Join the Friends of the Blue Hills for their bi-weekly baby and toddler hiking series. Snacks and drinks provided. FREE. 781-828-1805; friendsofthebluehills.org/peekablue

The Big E 8am – 10pm, Eastern States Exposition, 875 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. The largest fair in the Northeast returns with top-name entertainment, rides, animals and amazing cream puffs. Final day. Adults, $15; youth, $10. thebige.com/fair

5 Thursday Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular 6-10:30pm, Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood

Heifer International’s Global Harvest Festival 10am – 4pm, Overlook Farm, 216 Wachusett St., Rutland. See the Dale Perkins Horse Show, hear live music, press cider and meet the farm animals. Adults, $10; youth, $5. 508-886-2221; heifer.org

Not So Spooky Halloween 10am – 8pm, Edaville USA, 5 Pine St., Carver. Dress up in your favorite costume, trick or treat and enjoy the rides.

Fridays - Sundays through Oct. 29. Also includes Monday Oct. 9. $34 and up. 508-866-8190; edaville.com

King Richard’s Faire 10:30am – 6pm, King Richard’s Fairgrounds, 235 Main St., Carver. Entertainment, exciting rides and skilled games abound at New England’s largest Renaissance Festival. Adults, $31; youth, $16. Weekends and Monday holidays through Oct. 22. 508-866-5391; kingrichardsfaire.net

Kids Really Rock 11am – 5pm, Lawn on D, 420 D St., Boston. Ten of the country’s top kids bands come to The Lawn on D for a day of play. FREE. kidsreallyrock.com

Hayfest Noon to 4pm, Jackson Homestead and Museum, 527 Washington St., Newton. A hands-on family festival celebrating 19th-century family life. P, make butter, dip candles and more. FREE. 617-796-1450; historicnewton. org

Roslindale Day Parade 1pm, Adams Park to Fallon Field, Roslindale. The 42nd annual parade features marching bands, floats, community groups, costumed characters and more.

FREE. 617-327-4886; roslindaleparade.com

2 Monday

Beacon Hill Nursery School Over 60 Years of Excellence In Early Childhood Education

OPEN HOUSE

Wednesday, September 27 Monday, October 23

6:30 - 8pm

An RSVP to admissions@bhns.net is appreciated, but not required

Two on-site Playspaces Toddler through Kindergarten Programs Morning, Afternoon & Extended-Day Programs

74 Joy Street - Boston

www.bhns.net

We can’t wait to meet your children, but this event is for adults only. We want to give you our undivided attention!

Enrollment Down?

Advertise Here!

MFA Playdates 10:15am, Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston. Bring your toddler to enjoy story time and looking activities in the galleries. Theme: Painting With Nature. Free with admission. 617-267-9300; mfa.org

Call

617.522.1515 October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

23

Oct. 1 through Oct. 9, Topsfield Fair Hours vary, Topsfield Fairgrounds Ave., Providence, R.I. A nighttime display of over 5,000 illuminated jack-o-lanterns, many of them professionally carved masterpieces. Through Nov. 5. $12-18. 401-7853510; rwpzoo.org

6 Friday HONK! Festival Davis Square, Somerville. A festival of activist brass street bands featuring several days of performances, dance parties, processions and a lantern parade.

Through Oct. 8. FREE. honkfest.org

Hispanic Heritage Month Programming Various times, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Enjoy Hispanic art, music and dance.

Through Oct. 9. Free with admission. 617-426-6500; bostonkids.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOPSFIELD FAIRGROUNDS

as you enjoy music, food and kids activities. Through Oct. 8. Adults, $10; children, free. 508-322-4000; cranberryharvest.org

Harvest Festival 11am – 3pm, Verrill Farm, 11 Wheeler Road, Concord.

An old fashioned fair with a petting zoo, pony rides, carnival games, music, hayrides and more. Benefits Emerson Hospital. FREE. 978-369-4494; verrillfarm.com

Fall Festival 10am – 4pm, Blue Hills Trailside Museum, 1904 Canton Ave, Milton. Create autumn memories and enjoy live animal presentations, apple cider pressing, face painting and an annual yard sale. Through Oct. 8. $8. 617-9838500; massaudubon.org

8 Sunday

Fall Harvest Feast

Professor Wunders’ School of Magic

5:30pm – 8pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Enjoy a locally-sourced meal, lawn games and a tour of our fields. Members: Adult $42; youth, $15. 781-259- 2200; massaudubon.org

10am, Gallows Hill Museum Theater, 7 Lynde St., Salem.

Meet a friendly wizard in a live, interactive stage show for families who want to enjoy magical Halloween fun. Sundays through Oct. 29. $10. 978-825-0222; gallowshillsalem.com

7 Saturday Cranberry Harvest Celebration 10am – 4pm, A.D. Makepeace Home, 158 Tihonet Road, Wareham. Get a peek at the cranberry harvest process

24

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

Harvest Festival 10am – 4pm, Chestnut Hill Farm, Chestnut Hill Road, Southborough. A day-long celebration of fall on the farm, with pumpkin carving and painting, goat milking,

Discover Montessori

EXCELLENCE WITH JOY

PreK – Grade 8

• “Atrium in Action” Tours (PreK – Grade 8) Thursday, Oct. 12, 9-10:30am • “A is for Atrium” Aquarium For young children and parents/caregivers Tuesday, Oct. 17, 9:30-11am • Open House (PreK – Grade 8) Sunday, Oct. 29, 1-3pm Visit us at atrium.org for additional information

Discover Thacher TODDLER THOUGH 8TH GRADE

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, November 18 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Full and Half Day PreK options

for children who turn 4 years old by Sept. 15

69 Grove Street, Watertown 02472 Please contact sdunn@atrium.org or call 617.923.4156 x125 atrium.org

Milton, MA 02186 | www.thacherschool.org

TM

2017 TOP 5

October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

25

food, live music and more. $30 per car. 508-785-0339; ttor.org

Howl-o-ween Parade 1pm, Artist’s Row, Salem. Bring your well-behaved pet to a Halloween costume contest and parade. FREE. salemmainstreets.org

Teddy Bear Picnic 1-3pm, The Stevens-Coolidge Place, 137 Andover St., North Andover. Bring your bear and a blanket and join in storytime and a picnic in the teddy bear garden. $10.

978-356-4351; ttor.org

New England Harvest Feast 5:30pm, Plimoth Plantation, 137 Warren Ave., Plymouth.

Discover the table manners and recipes of the 17th century as you enjoy songs and dinner with Pilgrims. $35 and up, includes museum admission. 508-746-1622; plimoth.org

Boston. The museum opens its doors to the public on this day of gallery browsing, musical performances, art making and family tours. FREE. 617-267-9300; mfa.org

Family Fun Day 10am – 2pm, The Stevens-Coolidge Place, 137 Andover St., North Andover. Play lawn games, make crafts or go on a fall scavenger hunt. FREE. 978-356-4351; ttor.org

13 Friday Archaeology Fair 10am – 4pm, Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston.

Dozens of hands-on activities, live presentations and special programs celebrating archaeology. Free with admission. 617-723-2500; mos.org

Imagination Playground 3-8pm, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Children can create their own play spaces with

9 Monday - Columbus Day Fall Open House 10am – 5pm, Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave.,

SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE CENTERS

OPEN HOUSE T U E S D A Y OCTOBER 17 8:30AM

Come Take A Closer Look At Dedham Country Day! Open House: October 22 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Classroom Observations: November 9 & 30 | 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m COED • PRE-K TO GRADE • 8 WWW.DEDHAMCOUNTRYDAY.ORG

Call 617-254-3110 | visit www.stcps.org TM

Partnering with BOSTON COLLEGE to provide a superior PreK through grade 8 education grounded in Catholic values.

2017 WINNER

2 5 ARLINGTON STREET, BRIGHTON, MA 02135

JACKSON WALNUT PARK

Join us for an Open House on our Historic Newton Campus

OCTOBER 29 • 12 - 2 P.M. NOVEMBER 8 • 5:30-7:30 P.M.

www.jwpschools.org

617-202-9772 • apply@jwpschools.org 26

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

Imagination Playground’s unique blue foam blocks. Free with admission. 617-426-6500; bostonkids.org

Pumpkin Carving 4-6pm, Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park Street, Attleboro. Help staff at Oak Knoll carve pumpkins, then make sure to come back for the Halloween Spooktacular at Attleboro Springs to see your pumpkin aglow! FREE. 508-223-3060; massaudubon.org

Frightful Fridays 7 & 8:15pm, Gore Place, 52 Gore St., Waltham. The 1806 Gore mansion provides the perfect setting for an evening of spooky tales and haunted activities. Fridays through Oct. 28. $15. 781-894-2798; goreplace.org

14 Saturday Nature and Art Lab: LEGO Critter Creations 9:30-11:30am, Mass Audubon Museum of American Bird Art and Wildlife Sanctuary, 963 Washington Street, Canton. Explore the sanctuary, learn about fall wildlife and create a LEGO animal to take home. $25. 781-8218853; massaudubon.org

Fall Foliage Fun Day 11am – 2pm, Ward Reservation, Andover. Make kites, take a guided hike and enjoy the autumn colors and view of Boston from the top of Holt Hill. $15 per car.

978-356-4351; ttor.org

SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE CENTERS

HOT TIP

Room a View Ages 15 months - 5with years Combine the most popular climb in Boston, vibrant fall foliage and a stun Brighton • Porter Sq. • Kendall Sq. sunset during a free sunset foliage hike on Oct. 17, hosted by the Friends the Blue and Blue Hills Ski. Meet at theNewton ski area to check in, then take South End • Hills Needham • West your picnic dinner to enjoy at the top with complimentary hot beverages.

After sunset, thePlain lights of the ski area will illuminate your walk down.

Jamaica South St. ✼ Sunset Hike, Oct. 17, 4-7pm, Blue Hills Ski Area, 4001 Washington St., Can Jamaica Plain Revere St. FREE. 781-828-1805; friendsofthebluehills.org.

SchoolGabrielle YearJacobs andofSummer Programs North Easton admires the sunset over the Blue Hill Full and Extended Day

Chemis Throug discove

pies and an open-faced apple tart. $45. 508-785-0339; thetrustees.org.

Give your child the gift of education!

19bilingual Monday

21 W

MFA Playdates, 10:15am, Museum of Fine Arts, and465 seeHuntington Ave., Boston. See Oct. 5 listing.

Come visit why we were voted Family Favorite 20 Tuesday 2015 2016 2017 4 years in a row!

WINNER Float,WINNER WINNER Great Pumpkin 5:30pm, Pope John Paul IIWINNER Park, TM

TM

TM

WEST Hallow Come in hunt an gorepla

TM

Dorchester. Hundreds of costumed children will float pumpkins down the creek and enjoy cocoa and treats.

Bring a 6-8 inch carved pumpkin. Floats and candles provided. FREE. 617-333-7404; mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr.

EnrollmentPVP@gmail.com 617-416-7763 WEST

www.MyBilingualPreschool.com Chemistry Colors Our World, 2-4:30pm, The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. Celebrate National

22 T

Read f Museum record millions 617-426

SCHOOLS & CHILDCA

Open Houses JCC Early Learning Centers 6 weeks to 5 years – Age varies by location

Newton – Godine Early Learning Center

333 Nahanton St. (Leventhal-Sidman Center) • 617-558-6420 Thursday, October 19 • 9-10am Thursday, November 2 • 5-6pm Thursday, December 7 • 9-10am

Sharon – Gilson Early Learning Center 25 Canton St. (Temple Sinai) • 781-795-4900 Sunday, October 29 • 9:30-10:30am Sunday, December 3 • 9:30-11:30am

Hingham – JCC Early Learning Center

1112 Main St. (Congregation Sha’aray Shalom) • 781-752-4000 Wednesday, October 25 • 9:30-10:30am Tuesday, November 7 • 9:30-10:30am

Brookline/Brighton – JCC Early Learning Center 50 Sutherland Rd., Brighton • 617-278-2950 Tours available by appointment Everyone welcome

bostonjcc.org/earlylearning

Op

• An unhurried childhood • Rich academic curriculum • Two foreign languages grades 1-8 • Drama, chorus, strings • Arts, athletics and gardening

UP

MID

Ad

UPP

MID

Open House October 28 10am-12pm

745 W

Preschool to Grade 8 739 Massachusetts Ave | Lexington, MA 781.863.1062 | thewaldorschool.org October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

27

Diwali Celebration 11-3:30pm, Boston Common. Join in the Diwali festivities with dance performances, bright diya, colorful rangoli and tasty sweets. Through Oct. 15. FREE. 617426-6500; bostonkids.org

Open House Events More Events Online at www.BostonParentsPaper.com

Fall Foliage Sunset Hike 4:30-7:30pm, Blue Hills Ski Area, 4001 Washington St., Canton. Take in the season’s finest colors from the region’s highest hill. Picnic at the top, then hike down by the lights of the ski area. FREE. 781-828-1805; friendsofthebluehills.org

Halloween Spooktacular 4:30-8:30pm, Attleboro Springs Wildlife Sanctuary, 1417 Park Street, Attleboro. Explore pumpkin-lit trails and interact with forest inhabitants who will share the history of the sanctuary through fun skits and stories.

FREE. 508-223-3060; massaudubon.org

15 Sunday Flower Fairy Festival 10am to noon, The Stevens-Coolidge Place, 137 Andover St., North Andover. Build fairy houses and wands, dance and hear stories as you say goodbye to the garden season. $15. 978-356-4351; ttor.org

Boston Babies Clothing Swap Noon to 1:30pm. Showa Institute, 420 Pond St., Jamaica

SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE CENTERS

ARLINGTON

CHESTNUT HILL

International School of Boston Preschool and Kindergarten Open House October 28, 2017 @ 9:30 am – 12:00 pm. 17 Irving St https://www.isbos.org

Brimmer and May Fall Open House October 22, 2017 @ 1:00 pm 69 Middlesex Rd www.brimmer.org

Lesley Ellis School Open House November 5, 2017. 34 Winter St www.lesleyellis.org

Dedham Country Day Open House October 22, 2017 @ 1:00 pm 90 Sandy Valley Rd www.dedhamcountryday.org

BOSTON The Learning Project Open Houses October 3, 2017 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm and October 21, 2017 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm. 107 Marlborough St www.learningproject.org The Newman School Open House October 15, 2017 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. 247 Marlborough St www.newmanboston.org

BRAINTREE Thayer Academy Upper School Open House October 28, 2017 @ 9:30 am – 12:00 pm. Middle School Open House. November 4, 2017 @ 9:30 am – 12:00 pm. 745 Washington St www.thayer.org

BROOKLINE The Park School Open House October 29, 2017 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm. 171 Goddard Ave www.parkschool.org St. Mary of the Assumption School Open House October 18, 2017 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am. 67 Harvard St www.stmarys-brookline.org

CAMBRIDGE International School of Boston Middle and Upper School Information Night October 12, 2017 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Lower School Open House October 28, 2017 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm. 45 Matignon Rd www.isbos.org Cambridge Friends School Open House November 4, 2017 @ 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm. Middle School Open House. November 7, 2017 @ 9:00 am – 11:30 am. 5 Cadbury Rd www.cfsmass.org

28

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

DEDHAM

The Rashi School Head of School Coffee. October 24, 2017 @ 9:30 am – 11:00 am. The Rashi School Information Session. November 19, 2017 @ 10:30 am – 12:00 pm.

8000 Great Meadow Rd www.rashi.org

FITCHBURG Applewild School Open House November 5, 2017 @ 1:00 pm.

120 Prospect St www.applewild.org

MILTON Thacher Montessori School Open House November 18, 2017 @ 10:30 am – 12:00 pm. 1425 Blue Hill Avenue www.thacherschool.org

NATICK Riverbend Admissions Open Houses November 4, 2017 33 Eliot St www.riverbendschool.org

WATERTOWN Atrium School Open House October 29, 2017 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. 69 Grove St www.atrium.org

WELLESLEY Saint John School Open House October 11, 2017 @ 8:00 am – 9:30 am. 9 Ledyard St. www.saintjohnschool.net

WESTON The Meadowbrook School of Weston Open House October 21, 2017 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. 10 Farm Rd www.meadowbrook-ma.org

Open House Events May Be Posted Online at www.BostonParentsPaper.com/content/open-house-submission.html

SCHOOLS AND CHILDCARE CENTERS

Little People’s Playhouse

Lesley

Les

Preschool - Grade 8

Educating and caring for your child like their own!

Fall Open Houses 15 mos. to 6 yrs. • Pre K • Kindergarten Before & After School Ages 6-12 • 7am - 6pm Sunday, November 5 Part-time Preschool • 7am - 1pm - 3 p.m.

Join us at one of our 1Preschool - Grade 8 ♦ Literacy based academic program upcoming open focusing on the whole child houses!

Wednesday, November 15 ♦ Tutoring available ♦ Catered hot meals included

7 - 8:30 p.m.

Middle School (Grades 5 - 8)

ONGOING ENROLLMENT

www.peopleplayhouse.net 32 South Fairview Street ♦ W. Roxbury/Roslindale Line ♦ 617-323-2566 4019 Washington Street ♦ Roslindale/Jamaica Plain ♦ 617-323-6144

Outstanding academics.

Lifelong learners.

Critical thinkers.

Tricia Moran Director of Admission 781.641.1346 tmoran@lesleyellis.org

34 Winte

SCHOOLSwww.lesleyellis.org & CHILDCA

34 Winter St. | Arlington, MA 02474 | 781.641.1346

Fall Open Houses Tuesday, October 3rd: 4pm-6pm Saturday, October 21st: 11am-2pm Thursday, November 9th: 4pm-6pm

Joyful Journeys Caring Community Innovation Ignited

΀

Exceptional Educators Independence Instilled Expression Encouraged Rigor Redefined

t The Meadowbrook School of Weston provides academically inspiring and uniquely joyful education to students in grades K-8.

Learn more about how we’re REDEFINING RIGOR at meadowbrook-ma.org.

| Oct. 21, 2017, 1–3PM | Dec. 5, 2017, 9–10:30AM

BRIMM R

1880

OPEN HOUSE

INSPIRED TO LEARN • ENCOURAGED TO EXPLORE • EMPOWERED TO LEAD

A co-ed day school in Boston’s Back Bay. Accepting applications for Kindergarten 2019 and K-6 2018.

107 Marlborough St. - Boston - www.learningproject.org

Open House

Our mission is to create an early childhood program that fulfills the cognitive, emotional, social and physical needs of what is known to be the most significant period of human development.

OCTOBER 22, 2017 Lower School - 1 pm Middle/Upper Schools - 2 pm

Walk-in-Wedneday Parent Led Tours - 8:15 am October 25, November 8 & 15, December 6, January 10

New Innovation, STEAM & Maker Labs

open house

Friends Childcare offers an exciting, creative curriculum, as well as fun and stimulating learning activities for all age groups. Tailor-made Saturday, November 2015Regular in-house enrichment schedule 7AM-6PM, 5 days 7, a week. programsfrom such as nature exploration, music, gross 1:30 PM to 4 PM motor program, and baby massage are included in theall tuition.

It’s you need, all in one place.

• A mission and curriculum • Infants that (Birth to 15 Months) reflect your values

• Toddlers

• Engaging project-based (15 Months to 33learning Months)

Preschool/ • A thoughtfully•planned extended Pre-Kindergarten day program(33 Months to 5 Years) • Specialists in art, music, dance, and physical education

Independent | Co-Educational | Pre-K to12th Grade www.brimmer.org | Chestnut Hill, MA

Cambridge Friends School 5 Cadbury Road Cambridge, MA 02140 www.cfsmass.org 617.354.3880

Brookline • 617-731-1008 • 617-739-0854 • A warm, welcoming community RSVP to Callfor or students email us toand schedule a tour • friendschildcare.brookline@gmail.com families cfsadmission@cfsmass.org www.friendschildcare.net October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

29

B

CH

CH

Plain. Donate or swap baby clothes, momma gear and toys. Extras donated to Cradles to Crayons. $5 per family; free with donation of 18m-3T clothing. meetup. com/clothing-swap

CLASSES AND ENRICHMENT

17 Tuesday Peek a Blue Hike 11am, Houghton’s Pond, 840 Hillside St., Milton. Join the Friends of the Blue Hills for their bi-weekly baby and toddler hiking series. Snacks and drinks provided. FREE. 781-828-1805; friendsofthebluehills.org/peekablue

20 Friday Milking Time 3:30-5pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Feed the cows their evening hay, try your hands at milking a dairy cow and enjoy a dairy treat. $15.50. 781-259-2200; massaudubon.org

FALL

REGISTRATION

Halloween Hike at Boo Meadow Brook 6:30-8:30pm, Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 414 Massasoit Road, Worcester. Meet our resident spirits and native wildlife on a sundown tour through the woods lit by glowing luminaria. Through Oct. 21. $7.

508-753-6087; massaudubon.org

Art & Crafts Classes for Children

31 Thorpe Road Needham, MA

Painting • Sculpture • Clay Printmaking • Fiber Arts Knitting • Collage • Mosaics Sculpture and much more!

Birthday Parties • Individual Instruction • Drop-ins

Open Enrollment for ALL classes!

www.nicolesartspot.com • (781) 343-1250

Beginner- Advanced classes - Tots classes Intensive & Xcel programs - Tumbling

www.EnergyFitnessGym.com 617-795-7177

ALPHA 4.17 ActionUnl.qxp_Alpha Martial Arts 4/1/17 12:56 PM Page 1

Private Lessons • Group Classes • Ensembles • Concerts

Now registering for

Ninja Camp • After School Program Adult & Parent Classes • Teens & Kids Classes

ALPHA MARTIAL ARTS 40 Vinal Square N. Chelmsford, MA 978-251-1331 www.alphatkd.com

30

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

21 Saturday

24 Tuesday

Head of the Charles Regatta

Owl-o-ween

8am – 5pm, various locations along the Charles River, Boston & Cambridge. The world’s best crew teams head to the Charles for the ultimate rowing competition. View the race and explore the expo.

Through Oct. 22. FREE. 617-868-6200; hocr.org

3:30-5pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Visit the owls, create owl masks and prowl about. Whooo’s ready for Owl-o-ween? $15.50. 781-2592200; massaudubon.org

Boo at the Zoo 11am – 3pm, Stone Zoo, 149 Pond St., Stoneham.

Trick-or-treat among the animals, create creepy crafts, run a haunted maze, watch the animals interact with pumpkins and more. Free with admission. Through Oct. 22. 781-438-5100; stonezoo.org

Halloween at Hutch 4-6pm, Governor Hutchinson’s Field, Milton. Celebrate Halloween with a fun, non-spooky party complete with hot cocoa, cider, crafts and a pinata. Come in costume! Adults, $5; youth, $3. 617-542-7696; ttor.org

25 Wednesday Tots @ 10 10am, Assembly Row, 300 Grand Union Blvd., Somerville.

Meet at Baxter Park for a Halloween Show with Stacey Peasley. FREE. 617-684-1511; assemblyrow.com

26 Thursday Halloween at the Museum

22 Sunday

3-4:30pm, Blue Hills Trailside Museum, 1904 Canton Ave, Milton. Meet nighttime animals, make animal masks, play games and enjoy a Halloween treat at this nonscary, family-friendly Halloween. $10. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org

Pumpkin Float

Tales of the Night

Boston Common Frog Pond, Boston. Bring your carved pumpkin to join the others on an illuminated float.

Stay for treats, a parade, music and kids activities.

FREE. 617-635-2120; bostonfrogpond.com

3:30-5pm, Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 S Great Road, Lincoln. Prowl the farm, take a haunted hayride and visit the ghoulish graveyard for spooky snacks at

CLASSES AND ENRICHMENT We bring the instrument and the instructor.

Private in-home lessons available Contact Molly Howard at 617-999-8794 pianoplaytime@yahoo.com www.pianoplaytime.com

Fresh Pond

Ballet

Bay State Skating School As featured on “Chronicle”

Medford, Newton-Brighton, Quincy, Somerville, Waltham, West Roxbury, Weymouth

49 Years Experience Children (41/2 –18 years)

781-890-8480 • www.BayStateSkatingSchool.org

Now Enrolling

We have space in fall classes Nina Alonso, Director, FPB 1798a Mass Ave Cambridge • 617.491.5865

GET THE BEST REPORT CARD YET! GET AHEAD IN MATH & READING. Join us as we play math games, read books and apply our studies to our daily lives.

Call in today to reserve a slot!

TM

TOP 5

Circle & Larz Anderson),

LEARN TO SKATE CLASSES for Recreational • Figure • Hockey Skating Skills

www.freshpondballet.com

2016

Cambridge, Brookline (Cleveland

32 South Fairview St., Roslindale, MA

617-323-2566 SPACE AVAILABLE

Exxcel Gymnastics and Climbing Ongoing Fall Class Enrollment 2017 TM

WINNER

Gymnastics, Rock Climbing, Ninja Trainer, Tumbling Trial Classes Available Where Kids Upcoming Vacation Camps Matter Most!

Columbus Day – Oct. 9th Veterans Day – Nov. 10th Ages 3 and up!

Half, Full & Extended Day

88 Wells Avenue • Newton • 617 244-3300 • www.exxcel.net

The Math Club

REGISTER NOW FOR FALL

Inspiring and effective preparation for the Mathematical Olympiad Contest and Applied Mathematics Challenge - 2018 for elementary & middle school students.

21 year program with high success rate • Fun and supportive learning environment • Builds strong math foundation • Critical thinking techniques

TM

2017 TOP 5

781-860-9012 • www.TheMathClub.com October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

31

Pumpkin Patches!

Do you like your pumpkins tall and skinny or short and fat? Head to one of these pumpkin patches and find one that suits you just right.

• Belkin Family Lookout Farm, 89 Pleasant St. South, South Natick. 508-653-0653; lookoutfarm.com.

• Cider Hill Farm, 45 Fern Ave. Amesbury.

978-388-5525; ciderhill.com.

• Connors Farm, 30 Valley Rd. (Rt. 35). Danvers.

978-777-1245; connorsfarm.com • Crescent Farms, 140 Willow Ave., Bradford, 978-914-3158; crescentfarm.com.

• Davis Farmland, 145 Redstone Hill Rd., Sterling.

978-4226666; davisfarmland.com •Lanni Orchards, 294 Chase Road, Route 13 Lunenburg. 978-582-6246; lanniorchards.com.

this frightfully fun evening for the whole family!

Through Oct. 27. $17. 781-259-2200; massaudubon. org

27 Friday Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland 1pm & 7pm, The Dorothy and Charles Mosesian Center for the Arts, 321 Arsenal St., Watertown.

Join the Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts and other memorable characters as they find their way through Wonderland. Through Oct. 29. $12. 617926-2787; mosesianarts.org

Halloween Prowl 6:15pm, Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill Parkway, Sharon. Discover the history of Halloween and encounter costumed characters on a candle-lit trail, then return to the Nature Center for a campfire sing-a-long and snacks. Through Oct. 29. $10. 781-784-5691; massaudubon.org

28 Saturday Boston Blooms with Daffodils Various locations. Help plant 2,000 daffodil bulbs as a part of Mayor Walsh’s beautification initiative.

FREE. 617-961-3006; boston.gov/boston-blooms

Boston Book Festival

• Pakeen Farm, 109 Elm St., Canton.

781-828-0111; pakeenfarm.com.

Copley Square, Boston. Readings and book-related activities for the whole family. FREE. 617-945-9552; bostonbookfest.org

• Russell Orchards, 143 Argilla Rd., Ipswich.

978-356-5366; russellorchards.com

Nori’s Boo Bash

• Smolak Farms, 315 South Bradford St., North Andover. 978-682-6332; smolakfarms.com.

• Ward’s Berry Farm, 614 South Main St., Sharon.

781-784-3600; wardsberryfarm.com.

Find even more pumpkin patches at mass.gov/agr/ massgrown/pumpkin_pyo.htm.

9am – 6pm, Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South St., Providence, R.I. Come in costume and have a blast with games, crafts and Nori the dragon. Free with admission. 401-273-5437; childrenmuseum.org

Fall Family Arts Festival 10am to noon, The Dorothy and Charles Mosesian Center for the Arts, 321 Arsenal St., Watertown.

Celebrate fall with free, family-friendly performing and visual arts activities, costume dress-up and more. FREE. 617-926-2787; mosesianarts.org

Zoo Howl 11am – 3pm, Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Road, Boston. Trick-or-treat among the animals, explore a haunted maze, watch the animals interact with pumpkins and more. Free with admission.

Through Oct. 29. 617-541-5466; franklinparkzoo.org

National Chemistry Week Celebration: Chemistry Rocks!

11am – 4pm, Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Put on your lab coat and explore the wonderful world of rocks, fossils and minerals. Free with admission. 617-426-6500; bostonkids.org

Pumpkins in the Park 5:30-8pm, Francis William Bird Park, Polley Lane, East Walpole.Trick-or-treat on the nocturnal trail,

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Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

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413-658-1100; carlemuseum.org.

29 Sunday

participate in a pumpkin-decorating contest and play Halloween games. $5. 508-668-6136; ttor.org

The Enchanted Forest, 10:30am, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. Artbarn, a youth Sleepy Hollow-een Tour community theater company, presents the tale of a family vacation gone wrong.

Adults, $13; youth, $10.Road, 3:30-5pm, Concord Museum, 200 Lexington 617-734-2501; coolidge.org.

Concord.

Take a tour through Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

with a Concord Museum historian as your guide. $10.

NORTH 978-369-9763; concordmuseum.org Ward Winter Fest, noon to 3pm, Ward Reservation, Andover. Explore the property on a guided hike, or Hillside bring yourHalloween snowshoes and sled to play. Then warm up with refreshments by the fire. $10 per car.

10am – 5pm, Fruitlands Museum, 102978-886-5297; Prospect Hill ttor.org.

Road, Harvard. Trick-or-treat on the hillside, go on a museum scavenger hunt and enjoy seasonal crafts.

Kids in costume get free museum admission this weekend! Adults, $15; youth, $5. Through Oct. 29.

WEST 978-456-3924; fruitlands.org Backwards Storytime, 10am, The Discovery Museums,

31 Tuesday

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Snacks and drinks Music Specialist provided. FREE. 781-828-1805; friendsofthebluehills. org/peekablue Lots of Participation & Fun for All!

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October 2017 | BostonParentsPaper.com

33

Peter is Peter r O’Malley O’Malley O is Magic!

Magic!

✼ Single Minded

What’s In a Name?

By Susan Solomon Yem

W

hen my friend, Anna, got married five years ago, she chose to keep her maiden name.

Anna is French-Canadian with an Armenian background. In those traditions, women hold on to their names for a lifetime. Anna is very happily married and definitely not considering separating from her husband.

I was excited to take my husband’s name when I wed.

I often stumbled over my own alliterative appellation.

Two names beginning with S did not roll off my tongue easily. I also liked downsizing from three syllables to one. Solomon is frequently misspelled with at least one of the o’s becoming an a. Surprisingly, Yem can be spelled incorrectly too -- Wem, Yam, Yen. The possibilities are almost endless.

One of the first questions my attorney asked when I began divorce proceedings was whether I wanted to keep my married name. Without hesitation, I said yes.

It was my name almost as long as it wasn’t.

At the time of my divorce I was married for almost half my life. I was a newlywed when we moved from California to Massachusetts. We were starting a new life in a new state and I was forging a new identity. My friends and colleagues knew me only as Susan Yem. They had never met Susan Solomon. I would always remain a Solomon. I abandoned my middle name of Lilli and used Solomon in its place. (I wasn’t really a fan of Lilli.)

As a writer my byline was updated from Susan Solomon to Susan Solomon Yem so that friends and editors, who knew me as a single woman, would still know that I was the author of the book or article they were reading.

It’s my children’s last name I suspect that people create their own narratives when they meet moms whose last name is not the same as their children’s. Well, at least that’s my tendency. I am proud to be identified as the mother of my children and I do not want anything to confuse that.

In an ironic twist two of my children are using Solomon as their last name – my daughter and my oldest son. When I hosted my daughter’s college friends at a dinner near her campus, they all thanked Mrs. Solomon.

“Mrs. Solomon was my mother,” I corrected them. They responded with puzzled expressions. See what I mean about confusing people!

34

Boston Parents Paper | October 2017

It’s my professional name My business card reads Susan Solomon Yem so the people I interact with professionally will not anticipate greeting a small Asian woman when I schedule meetings.

(I am 5’8” and Jewish.)

More than one boss has asked if he has to call me Susan Solomon Yem when introducing me. I’m Susan Solomon Yem in print. I’m Susan Yem in person.

I do enjoy the looks I get when I walk in a room of people anticipating someone who is quite different from me. Inevitably they ask, what kind of name is Yem? I do not want to deny those years when I was married.

While mine was a difficult marriage, there were many years of satisfaction. My ex-husband and I built a life together. We created a home and raised five children. I hold those memories dear. Family photos that include him adorn my living room. I am the person I am today because of our years together.

I still like being called Mrs. When Ms. came into common usage after the publication of Ms. Magazine in 1971 it was the default title for a woman whose marital status was unknown. In more recent years people have started to assume that Ms. is used to identify a divorced woman. Not necessarily, according to Emily Post, the acknowledged authority on etiquette. Ms. Post tells us, a divorced woman who chooses to keep her ex-husband’s name can use Mrs. or Ms., but if she reverts to her maiden name then Ms., not Miss should precede it.

Nowadays we’re rarely identified by our last names. In doctor’s offices, supermarket check out lines, and insurances companies, we’re all on a first name basis. I work in a school, where students still need to address adults as Mr., Miss., Mrs., or Ms. and I like being called Mrs. My friend, April, divorced two years ago. She is in the process of adjusting her last name. During the first year, she continued to use her ex-husband’s name. This year she has created a hyphenate of her maiden and married names and next year she will drop the back end and use her maiden name only. That’s a little too complicated for me. Just call me Mrs. Yem Susan Solomon Yem is singleminded about raising her five children to adulthood. She’d like to hear your stories about single parenting. Contact her at susansyem@gmail. com

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