KiDS! A Special Section of The Record-Review | March 10, 2017
KIDS!
PAGE 2A | THE RECORD-REVIEW
MARCH 10, 2017
Kids! Cover Contest Winner Olivia Poti COVER WINNER
Inside Kids! LEARNING: From confidence to cooperation, kids learn early....... 3A PARENTING: Regular routines benefit even the youngest children........... 4A ALLERGY PREVENTION: Peanuts no longer on the no-no list................ 6A UNPLUGGED: Kids healthy, happy with active lifestyle....................... 8A HEALTH: Healthy eating habits for kids begin at home....................... 11A BOARD GAMES: Quality time, learning and fun........................... 12A PARENTING: Don’t forget to set aside some ‘YOU’ time......................... 14A
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usan Clark of Bedford keeps getting great news. In 2014, grandson Nicholas Poti was the cover winner. Last year, granddaughter McKenzie Munson was the Division 2 winner. This year the top honor goes to another granddaughter, Olivia Poti, 3-year-old Nicholas’ 1-year-old sister. This photo on the beach in Cape Cod, where the Potis live, was taken for Christmas on a sled given to Olivia by her grandfather. “She loves going to the beach,” Susan said. “She’s definitely going to be a beach girl. We had a lot of fun that day. Her aunt and uncle were there, too. Her uncle Matt took the photo.” Olivia is starting to walk a little now and “she has found her voice,” her grandmother said: “She gets very excited, very happy and screams and yells and is just so overcome sometimes it’s kind of crazy.” Susan travels to see Olivia — and Nicholas, of course — at least once a month. “I like to sit on the floor with her and play,” Susan said. “She likes to do puzzles and she’s starting to learn to put shapes together, roll the ball. We go out for walks. She’s only a year old, but we sit and read and look at books. She loves that. She loves her toys and stuffed animals in her room.”
SUPER CUTE KIDS!
PARENT’S GUIDE: How tos and what’s new ...........................21A -25A
2017 Record-Review
DAY CAMP GUIDE
Ursula Georgie Dur
M.J. Arkin
Clare Julia Dur
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Kids! A special section of
The Record-Review P.O. Box 455, Bedford Hills, NY 10507 914-244-0533 www.record-review.com PUBLISHER...........................Deborah G. White SECTION EDITOR............................ Todd Sliss ART DIRECTOR...................... Ann Marie Rezen ADVERTISING DESIGN..........Katherine Potter
Nicholas Poti
AD SALES ............................... Francesca Lynch Thomas O’Halloran, Barbara Yeaker and Marilyn Petrosa ©2017 THE RECORD, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART IS FORBIDDEN WITHOUT PUBLISHER’S WRITTEN PERMISSION.
Christopher Vega
THANK YOU to all of our adorable 2017 Cover Kid contestants!
KIDS!
MARCH 10, 2017
THE RECORD-REVIEW | PAGE 3A
From confidence to cooperation, kids learn early BY LINDA LEAVITT
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n his 1986 best seller, “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten,” Robert Fulghum stressed sharing, playing fair and picking up after oneself. But today’s children are expected to learn these things before they go to kindergarten. Parents can make the transition to school easier by modeling and teaching behaviors that will help their children feel safe and happy, get along with other kids and respond positively to teachers.
Safety first The most important thing to teach your preschooler is safety, and it’s a tricky one. You have to walk a fine line between warning of danger and making your child anxious and fearful. Involve your child in staying safe by asking him or her help you look both ways before you cross the street and watching for back-up lights in a parking lot. Tell your child you must be able to see him at all times on the playground or beach and assure him that you will never leave without him. Instruct her never to leave the area with anyone other than you, or a friend or relative you designate. If your child is lost in a public place, tell him to look for a policeman or another mother with a child and ask for help. Children need to know their parents’ full names and address. If you’re off to the zoo or other crowded place, consider writing your cell phone number on a piece of paper and putting it in the child’s pocket. Be sure to tell the child it’s there.
Building confidence Giving your children the freedom to run around and explore in an enclosed place like a playground helps build confidence that will stand them in good stead when they start school. Jody Glassman, director of the Mazel Tots program at Scarsdale Synagogue, believes “It’s really important for parents to help
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KIDS!
PAGE 4A | THE RECORD-REVIEW
MARCH 10, 2017
Regular routines benefit even the youngest children BY EVE MARX
T
aylor Gaines is a Katonah mom and preschool teacher at Play Care in Chappaqua. Working with 2-year-olds, she knows what kids need. “Routines help children feel they have some control and helps them learn independence,” she said. Gaines uses signifying bells in her preschool classroom to help children master transitions. “Whether it’s time to start cleaning up, or to prepare to go outside, there’s a bell that tells them they are about to change what they are doing,” Gaines said. As the school year moves on, Gaines builds on established routines so the children know when they hear the bell something is expected of them. “When they hear the bell at snack time, they know it’s time to get their place mats and water bottles and sit in their seats,” Gaines said. “We just started adding to that getting napkins. Adding to established routines over time means learning new tasks isn’t overwhelming. Routines instill great independence over time. It’s also a great method for working with children who have sensory issues, because once they get used to something you’re not changing it, you’re just adding on.” Cynthia Shaster Schmitt, another Katonah parent and occupational therapist working with young children at Theracare in White Plains, said routines are “the most important element when working with kids with special needs.” “Typically special needs children thrive on routine,” Schmitt said. “It helps them navigate their world when they know what to expect. The most important thing for any child to learn in preschool is not their letters or their numbers, but how to follow a daily routine and navigate changes within the structure of the day.” Erika Glick is the owner and director of Katonah Village Kids. “Routines are important because children feel safer when they know what to expect,” she said. “Routines are calming for children. Routines provide a sense of security.” When children understand expectations and can live up to them, this enhances their confidence, according to Glick. “A predictable routine allows children to feel safe and develop a sense of mastery in handling their lives,” she said. “As this sense of mastery is strengthened, they can tackle larger challenges.” Routines are also useful for eliminating power struggles and increases cooperation, a boon, obviously, for parents. What can parents do to foster the routine habit? “Parents are probably already fostering routines at home without even realizing it,” Glick said. “Bedtime routines, washing hands before a meal, various self care tasks become predictable for children.” Glick said that while it may be tempting — and more efficient — for parents to do certain jobs themselves, it benefits children, even very young children, to have a feeling of independence. Routines, Glick added, are also a way of fostering connection: “That expected snuggle at bedtime, conversations at dinner, singing while you’re waiting for something, these are wonderful opportunities for connection.” A good pre-school, Glick said, models for families how to
implement and facilitate routines. “It’s important to remember that a routine is not necessarily a schedule,” Glick said. “The two are not synonymous. Life is unpredictable and the ability to be flexible is key. If you are able to model how to handle changes in routine and deal with stressful situations that spontaneously arise, that reinforces the fact that establishing a routine is part of a process.” Just like any other process, establishing and reinforcing routines takes time, effort, and consistency. “But the payoff is immeasurable,” Glick said. For many parents, sticking with routines can be a challenge. “You know that you’re not going to get your kids in bed at the exact same time every night,” Glick said. “But the kids should know that before bed they always brush their teeth.” Even if things don’t always go as planned, she said, make sure the important routine is accomplished: “Even if you were out until midnight, they still brush their teeth before getting into bed. They learn teeth cleaning is always followed by bedtime. It’s the routine of the teeth cleaning that helps them understand what happens next.” Cheryl Smith, the Director of St. James The Less Nursery School in Scarsdale, uses a daily schedule chart “with picture and word clues” for they day’s activities. “These help the children to understand what is coming next,” Smith said. “Imagine a child is playing in the blocks. They can look at the schedule and know that soon it will be snack time. This gives them time to understand that their activity will end and to anticipate comes next. Hill Each day 219what Watermelon Rd. the schedule clues are changed so they know the routines Mahopac, NY 10541 for that day and can anticipate a day’s special activity — music, special visitors, playground,845.621.4450 etc. We have found especially
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with children who are anxious about transitions that having a visual guide to their day is very helpful.” The St. James The Less program is play-based and is balanced between free play, small group activities, one-on-one teacher interactions, morning meeting as a large group and daily activities like snack, reading, music, outdoor play or large space indoor play. “From the first days we guide the children through our transitions to help them acclimate to all the classroom routines,” Smith said. “As the year progresses, sometimes, we intentionally change our routines so that they can handle a change in routine as well.” Smith and her staff advise and coach parents about how their individual child responds to transitions and change. “We suggest they use similar techniques at home to those we use at school and give helpful hints including a household routine of laying out clothes the night before, putting everything needed for school the next day in one set area, showing the child and their caregivers a schedule for the day or week,” she said. Smith recommends there should be a visual the children can access at any time. “In our younger classrooms, our daily chart uses actual photos to lay out the routine,” she said. “In our 4s class we introduce words and images to help them. This reinforces their ability to transition, and at the same time allows for the development of word recognition skills.” Smith said she and her staff also remind parents of the importance of advance warning about an upcoming transition or changes in the routine. “That is extremely helpful and important,” she said. “We understand each child is unique, and we strive to work with parents to help them help their child.”
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Early learning CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3A
their children feel capable. Don’t carry them into school, let them walk. Be encouraging and make them feel you have faith in them. Your worries should be your own and not put on the child.” If you are positive about going to school, your child will see it that way too. “Self-love and confidence help children function within a community,” says Dina Bove, director of Scarsdale Community Baptist Nursery School. It requires patience to stand by while a child learns to dress herself, put her toys away or help unpack groceries, but children who can do these things are more self-assured and better prepared for school than kids who are accustomed to having everything done for them. At Scarsdale Community Baptist, kids have rotating jobs like setting the table for snack time, feeding the fish, leading the line to the playground and taking care of the class library, Bove says. These tasks make them feel like productive members of the group.
Socializing For most children, preschool at age 2, 3 or 4 is the first communal experience without a parent present. In these early years children are “learning how to become a friend and get along with people, not just one on one in a playdate, but also as part of a group,” said Jane Arcaya, director of Elmwood Nursery School in White Plains. “Kindness and empathy” go a long way, she said, adding, “Children learn to go with the flow, give and take.” Bove says her teachers emphasize kindness and make sure to praise children when they show empathy for others. Parents can foster
KIDS!
THE RECORD-REVIEW | PAGE 5A
these qualities by identifying emotions and modeling useful responses to feelings, like counting to 10 when you’re angry or explaining why you feel hurt or frustrated. Reading books and talking about the characters’ feelings helps children connect with others. Young children are naturally selfish, but they are also naturally empathic. In experiments, even babies detect abuse of one puppet by another and sympathize with the puppet who is being abused. Parents can tap into kids’ instinctive sense of fairness to teach kindness. “We try to help children see opportunities in disappointment,” said Mazel Tots’ Glassman. For example, a child who is upset because a desired color of paper is unavailable can be helped to see new possibilities in using another color, or trading with another child. “We try to help them understand what they can do, not so much what they can’t do,” Glassman said. Bove said Scarsdale Community Baptist also focuses on the positive. Whenever possible, teachers try to avoid negative commands. Instead of calling out “Don’t run!” they say “Walking feet!”
Sharing Sharing can be a major challenge, but it’s an essential part of getting along with others. Simple board games that don’t require reading teach turn taking, following rules, fairness and winning and losing gracefully. At Mazel Tots, teachers “have a variety of ways to handle sharing,” Glassman said. Children are taught to say, “When you’re done with that, I’d like a turn.” Sometimes teachers CONTINUED ON PAGE 22A
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PAGE 6A | THE RECORD-REVIEW
KIDS!
MARCH 10, 2017
ALLERGY PREVENTION: Peanuts no longer on the no-no list BY MAJA TARATETA
F
or years, parents have avoided peanuts. The roasted nut — one third of the ingredients in the iconic American childhood classic PB&J — has been effectively ostracized. It begins its solitary confinement on the list of no-nos for parents when they introduce foods to their babies. Why take the risk that a child might be allergic? While peanuts won’t be appearing in school lunch rooms any time soon, new information about effective ways to prevent the rise of peanut allergies in children is changing the way parents and pediatricians view the much-maligned nuts and their place in children’s diets. Whereas parents were often cautioned to avoid exposing children to peanuts in infancy in case of allergy, recent scientific research has shown that peanut allergies can in fact be prevented by introducing peanut-containing foods into the diet of children early in life. “Contrary to our prior thinking,” said Dr. Subhadra Siegel, M.D., a pediatric allergist and immunologist at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital in Valhalla, “early exposure to peanuts is preventative. Before the study, it was grey.” This new thinking has been integrated into changes to the guidelines for the prevention of peanut allergies in the United States. The new guidelines, for both pediatricians and parents, were announced by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at
the beginning of the year. The guidelines come as a result of research that shed new light on effective ways to prevent peanut allergies from developing in children. Researchers conducted a clinical trial called “Learning Early About Peanut Allergy (LEAP)” with more than 600 infants considered to be at high risk of developing peanut allergy because they had severe eczema, egg allergy or both. The scientists randomly divided the babies into two groups. One group was given peanut-containing foods to eat regularly, and the other group was told to avoid peanut-containing foods. They did this until they reached 5 years of age. By comparing the two groups, researchers found that regular consumption of peanut-containing foods beginning early in life reduced the risk of developing peanut allergy by 81 percent.
Pediatricians are already embracing the new guidelines. “The idea is that exposing children early to peanuts significantly lowers their risk of peanut allergy,” said Dr. Robert Rosenberg, M.D., of Hartsdale Pediatrics. “It is not necessary to limit peanut exposure. The idea is to develop tolerance by exposure.” Based on the strength of the LEAP findings, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health, worked with professional organizations, federal agencies and patient advocacy groups to develop clinical practice guidelines to address the prevention of peanut allergy. Allergists are quick to highlight the details of the guidelines. “This is about prevention,” stressed Dr. Craig Osleeb, M.D., a pediatri-
cian who specializes in allergy and immunology at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco. “It has nothing to do with kids who are already allergic. And kids at high risk need to be evaluated first. These are important points.” For children who do not present risk factors for peanut allergies, peanut products (not peanuts themselves, which are choking hazards) should be introduced with solids and definitely before 11 months of age, said Dr. Osleeb. Pediatricians should be talking about peanuts with parents when the begin talking about solid foods, he said, by 4 to 6 months of age. The important things to keep in mind are whether the kids are at low risk for peanut allergies, high risk for peanut allergies or already allergic to peanuts. Each type of patient requires a different approach to the goal of peanut-allergy prevention. “What I talk to parents most about now is early introduction of peanuts for children at low risk for peanut allergies,” Dr. Siegel said. “But of course there are kids that are truly peanut allergic… For high-risk kids, it makes sense to work with an allergist.” Dr. Siegel said she will sometimes recommend children at high-risk for peanut allergies take a “challenge test” in her office, where peanuts can be slowly introduced and reaction can be monitored. She also recommends waiting until children who are at high-risk for peanut allergies are old enough to express themselves clearly CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE
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MARCH 10, 2017 CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE
if they are having reactions like lip swelling or difficulty breathing before introducing them to peanuts, even in a controlled, medical office environment, as the symptoms of adverse reaction can be difficult to see in infants who cannot yet express themselves clearly. The move to prevent peanut allergies in children comes on the heels of studies that confirm a growing suspicion among parents: that peanut allergies occur in much higher numbers of children today than when they themselves were kids. According to a 2010 study by the Jaffe Food Institute at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, peanut allergies more than tripled in the United States from 1997-2008. Approximately 1.4 percent of children are thought to have peanut allergies. And with reactions that can include anaphylaxis, and, although rare, even
KIDS!
death, the allergy, which can be lifelong in 80 percent of patients, is “a significant burden for people,” said Dr. Osleeb. But parents whose children do not present risk factors for peanut allergies should not be avoiding the nut in their children’s’ diets, recommend pediatricians. Many suggest an easy way to introduce peanut products to children is in the form of a puffed snack called BAMBA, which is popular in Israel. Interestingly, Israeli children have a lower incidence of peanut allergy. Pediatricians are telling parents whose children are not at risk for allergies to embrace the introduction of more foods, with the goal being allergy avoidance. “For children who don’t have eczema or signs of food allergies, they should be exposed to all foods,” summarized Dr. Rosenberg, “except honey.” Well, you can’t have everything.
THE RECORD-REVIEW | PAGE 7A
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EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
New Peanut Allergy Guidelines The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases released the following guidelines in January 2017 to provide a starting point for conversations with an infant’s healthcare provider about how best to prevent the development of peanut allergy.
Guideline 1 If your infant has severe eczema, egg allergy, or both (conditions that increase the risk of peanut allergy), he or she should have peanut-containing foods introduced into the diet as early as 4 to 6 months of age. This will reduce the risk of developing peanut allergy. Check with your infant’s healthcare provider before feeding your infant peanutcontaining foods. He or she may choose to perform an allergy blood test or send your infant to a specialist for other tests, such as a skin prick test. The results of these tests will help to determine if peanut should be introduced into your infant’s diet and, if so, the safest way to introduce it. If your infant’s test results indicate that it is safe to introduce peanut-containing foods, the healthcare provider may recommend that you introduce peanut-containing foods to your infant at home. Or, if you prefer, the first feeding may be done in the healthcare provider’s office under supervision. On the other hand, testing may indicate that peanut should be carefully introduced at a specialist’s facility or not introduced at all because your child may
already have developed an allergy to peanut. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for introducing peanut-containing foods to your infant.
Guideline 2 This suggests that if your infant has mild to moderate eczema he or she may have peanut-containing foods introduced into the diet around 6 months of age to reduce the risk of developing peanut allergy. However, this should be done with your family’s dietary preferences in mind. If peanutcontaining foods are not a regular part of your family’s diet (and your infant does not have severe eczema, egg allergy or both), do not feel compelled to introduce peanut at such an early stage. Your child’s healthcare provider can tell you whether your child’s eczema is mild to moderate. You may then choose to introduce peanut-containing foods at home. However, if you or your healthcare provider prefer, the first feeding can be done in the provider’s office under supervision.
Guideline 3 Finally, if your infant has no eczema or any food allergy, you can freely introduce peanut-containing foods into his or her diet. This can be done at home in an ageappropriate manner together with other solid foods, keeping in mind your family’s dietary routines and preferences as described in Guideline 2. — Maja Tarateta
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PAGE 8A | THE RECORD-REVIEW
KIDS!
MARCH 10, 2017
UNPLUGGED: Kids healthy, happy with active lifestyle BY MAJA TARATETA
I
like to move it, move it! I like to move it, move it!” So sang King Julian in the movie “Madagascar.” But getting kids to “move it, move it,” and be “physically fit, physically fit, physically, physically, physically fit,” to quote the song, is getting harder and harder. As children become more “plugged in” at a younger age, the resulting decrease of physical activity is taking a toll on their fitness, health and mental well-being, experts say. Physical activity is key to good health. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans: “Regular physical activity in children and adolescents promotes health and fitness. Compared to those who are inactive, physically active youth have higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness and stronger muscles. They also typically have lower body fatness. Their bones are stronger, and they may have reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.” They also have a better chance of being healthy throughout their lives. “Youth who are regularly active also have a better chance of a healthy adulthood,” the Guidelines continue. “Children and adolescents don’t usually develop chronic diseases, such as heart disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or osteoporosis. However, risk factors for these diseases can begin to develop early in life. Regular physical activity makes it less likely that these risk factors will develop and more likely that children will remain healthy as adults.” The problem preventing today’s kids from
participating in physical activities? There is a confluence of issues, beginning with screen time. Among high school students, 35 percent report watching three or more hours of TV per day. Not to mention the countless hours wasted in the “black hole” of cell phones, social media and texting. Children ages 11 to 14 consume more than eight hours of digital media every day. For children ages 8- 11, more than five and a half hours of digital media is consumed daily. And the consumption of digital media is leading directly to a decrease in physical activity. Only 11 percent of girls and 24 percent of boys in high school said they were physically active at least one hour per day, which is the minimum recommended by the Centers for
Disease Control. Coupled with the recent cuts to gym classes and diminished recess time in some schools, and the movement from walking or bicycling to school to getting there via bus or car rides, the physical fitness of America’s kids is on a decline that experts say should be counteracted by encouragement from families to “get a move on.” Starting early can make a big difference in developing healthy fitness habits. “The best way to teach a healthy lifestyle is to incorporate physical activities at a young age,” advised Haley Ruotolo, assistant skating director at Westchester Skating Academy in Elmsford. “It is very important for children to learn that being active can be fun and exciting. At each
stage of development children naturally learn new elements of fitness, from crawling and walking to running and climbing. Children can be introduced to physical fitness programs as young as the toddler age.” At the skating academy, children can start as young as 3 years old, Ruotolo said. Children begin in the Parent and Me class, where they learn to “fall down, stand up, march and glide on the ice, all with the comfort of their parent by their side. We teach through games and activities that are engaging and age appropriate,” she said. Some activities can begin even earlier. At Purchase College, Director of Aquatics Chris Klint says swimming classes start at 6 months of age, and actual lessons start at age 3. “I feel that kids of all ages should be involved in swimming all year long,” she said, noting that she is, of course, biased to the water sport she loves. “It is a skill they will be able to do all their life and will be even more important if they have to rehab from injuries, suffer with asthma, get older and cannot be active with higher impact sports such as jogging and running, or playing basketball.” Getting involved in physical activities is more than just good for the body. It can also directly counteract the negative effects of too much screen time. “The first thing it does is get them moving,” Klint said. “Secondly it makes them engage with other people, adults and children. They learn to look at people in the eyes and actively listen to directions, corrections and praise.” “As long as we can keep kids engaged and having fun with physical activities like skating,” CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE
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MARCH 10, 2017 CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE
said Ruotolo, “they realize that they would rather spend their time moving than participating in digital activities.” Being active can also bring emotional benefits. “I have had doctors, social workers and school psychologists send students to me because of self-esteem issues, lack of confidence, anxiety, and other concerns,” Klint said. “I have seen these children blossom and gain self-worth and pride in learning new skills.” Some kids are involved in plenty of sports and other physical activities — maybe even too many at one time. This, coupled with academic and other pressures, said Betsy Kase, owner of Yoga Haven in Scarsdale and Tuckahoe, can lead to stress and emotional imbalance. Her antidote? The mindfulness and coping mechanisms of yoga. “We know physical activities are important for their bodies — to stay healthy, we have to move,” Kase said. “Yoga is a complement… Exercise, yoga and relaxation make you feel good.” Starting yoga early helps build muscle memory. “We want muscles to be pliable, strong and supple,” Kase said. “We get locked into this strength thing.” Like all types of fitness, yoga offers benefits to children beyond the physical. “Focus, concentration, adaptability, managing stress,” Kase listed. “It is important to connect mentally to our bodies, to teach children to listen to their bodies. We tend to ignore our bodies. Becoming a good listener to your own body… is something that can make a change in someone’s life.” The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time for children to less than two hours per day. But a recent study
by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that young people spend more than seven hours per day on average consuming digital media. However, putting down the cell phone, tuning out social media, walking away from the video game and turning eyes from TV screens is more than just a way to improve physical fitness. The consumption of digital media has been shown to produce changes in brain chemistry and hormones that increase irritability and cause depression and other mood concerns. Gaming has been shown to release so much dopamine — a feel-good chemical in the brain — that children effectively become “hooked” on electronics. “When kids are on video games, social media and texts, they get a dopamine hit, like a high,” Kase explained. “Yoga movement clears the system, teaches patience and calms the system.” Instead of the sympathetic nervous system being on all the time — also known as fight or flight — the parasympathetic system gets turned on, brining relaxation and healing, she said. “We need to actively turn this back on,” Kase urged. “The way is through exercise, yoga and mindfulness.” Getting kids moving can take serious effort, and is best achieved by example, said the experts. “Kids love to get fit with their families,” Ruotolo said. Going outside for exercise can also make important inroads in counteracting screen time stresses. According to an article in Psychology Today, “Research has shown that time outdoors, especially interacting with nature, can restore attention, lower stress and reduce aggression. Thus, time spent with electronics reduces exposure to natural mood enhancers.” The article is, fittingly, titled “Screentime is Making Kids Moody, Crazy and Lazy.” Fitness can help.
THE RECORD-REVIEW | PAGE 9A
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KIDS!
MARCH 10, 2017
Overcome Learning Challenges Are you seeing this? Children can exhibit behavior such as avoiding homework, acting out, trying to skip school, showing signs of depression and seeming lethargic. These behaviors can reflect the student’s problems with school. Different issues arise with gifted students. They need to be challenged at a higher level to prevent them from losing interest in school.
Mathematics: the poetry of logic
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an array of learning materials that help develop mathematical thinking. Through manipulating and arranging blocks, beads and puzzles, children develop spatial awareness, pattern identification and grouping skills, and absorb concepts like place value. As children’s understanding of math concepts becomes more secure, the school turns to elements of Singapore Math, which emphasizes inquiry and problem-based learning without sacrificing computational fluency. Throughout, students strengthen their problem-solving skills and practice using mathematical language to explain their reasoning. Areas of study include patterns and algebraic relationships, number sense and operations, statistics and probability, and geometry and measurement. The Children’s School strives to make math as natural and compelling for children as play. Visit childrensschool.org.
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Math is as essential to our understanding and appreciation of how the world works, and our place within it, as the spoken and written word. It has been described as “the poetry of logic.” As Maureen Murphy, head of The Children’s School in Stamford, Conn., explains, “A practical and needed tool, math is also a language, a window to deciphering the physical world as well as the forces that govern it. It also teaches an important habit of mind — problem-solving — that is crucial for children to begin learning.” The Children’s School brings math to life by anchoring it in the concrete, the domain that young children can grasp most easily. At every turn the program offers opportunities and materials for the development of mathematical concepts. The curriculum has its roots in the work of Maria Montessori, a visionary in her insight that children are capable of understanding high-level mathematical concepts such as multiplication and division. Like Jean Piaget, she believed that young children learn best through the concrete, and she designed
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THE RECORD-REVIEW | PAGE 11A
Healthy eating habits for kids begin at home BY MAJA TARATETA
S
kinny. Low fat. No sugar. Low cholesterol. Whole grain. All natural. Gluten free. Diet. And how about the famous, “You can have your dessert only if you eat all your vegetables.” Experts agree, marketing buzz words can lead to mistakes when it comes to families hoping to develop healthy eating habits in their children. And so can rewarding food choices. But nutritionists and others involved in helping develop healthy eating habits in families also agree that it is never too early to begin to encourage a family focus on nutrition. “Research shows early intervention is a learned behavior that over time lowers chronic disease incidence such diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer,” said Linda Arpino, RDN, CDN, FAND, who specializes in chronic disease prevention at Life Forces Nutrition in Stamford, Conn., and Rye Brook. Amy Rosenfeld, MS, RD, CDN, a registered dietician (or nutritionist) who is also the youth program coordinator and coordinator of the president’s junior leadership council in the department of Community Health, Education & Outreach at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, agrees that sooner is better when it comes to developing healthy eating habits. “Research and clinical practice show that eating habits are very difficult to change as children age — the earlier
children develop healthy habits the better off they are,” she said. “In fact, food preferences and eating habits develop as early as the first year of life.” Erica Leon, MS, RDN, CDN, CEDRD, is a certified eating disorders registered dietitian and a certified intuitive eating counselor in White Plains. “It is important to develop healthy eating habits early on because children are like sponges soaking up all the information around them,” she said. “From birth, when an infant has the first bottle or breast milk, they are learning to satisfy their body’s need for nourishment. Babies will generally stop drinking milk when they are sated. In other words, they can internally regulate their intake, which is important for regulating their normal, healthy body weight.” Many experts say healthy eating habits can actually begin before a baby is born. “Some research even suggests that what a mother eats during pregnancy and breastfeeding influences her child’s taste preferences and eating habits later on in life,” Rosenfeld said. “Children are never too young to develop healthy eating habits, but I recommend starting with the introduction of their first foods.” So what is healthy eating? “Consuming nutrients required to maintain health over a lifetime,” Arpino said. “These nutrients not only include the basic carbohydrate, protein, fat, vitamins, minerals and water, but the thousands of phyto-nutirients found in plant-based foods.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 20A
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PAGE 12A | THE RECORD-REVIEW
KIDS!
MARCH 10, 2017
BOARD GAMES: Quality time, learning and fun BY MARY LEGRAND
M
ost adults have fond memories of playing board games with their parents and friends. It turns out that what we as children and teens thought was “just” fun also has wide-ranging benefits, the first of which may simply be spending time together with peers or family members. The website scholastic.com notes that “what your child most wants — and needs — is to be with you with no goal in mind beyond the joy of spending time together. He wants you to take pleasure in him, play with him and listen to him. Nothing bolsters his self-esteem more! So why not pull out an old board game tonight? Playing games is an easy way to spend unhurried, enjoyable time together. As an added bonus, board games are also rich in learning opportunities. They satisfy your child’s competitive urges and the desire to master new skills and concepts.” Scholastic’s experts include number and shape recognition, grouping and counting; letter recognition and reading; visual perception and color recognition; and eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity in the skills reaped while playing board games. “Games don’t need to be overtly academic to be educational, however,” scholastic.com continues. “Just by virtue of playing them, board games can teach important social skills, such as communicating verbally sharing, waiting, taking turns and enjoying interaction with others. Board games can foster the
ability to focus, and lengthen your child’s attention span by encouraging the completion of an exciting, enjoyable game.” Scholastic’s viewpoint on games for preand primary school-age kids is that parents are there in part to “help guide [children] through the contest. When a playing piece falls to a lower level, our kids really feel sad; when it rises up high, they are remarkably proud and happy, even if we adults know that it happened only by chance. Therefore, you need to help balance your child’s pleasure in playing the game with his very limited ability
to manage frustration and deal with the idea of losing.” There’s a right game for every age, according to scholastic.com: “While in the long run we need to teach values, ethics, academic skills and the importance of playing by the rules, in the early years the primary goals are helping your child become more self-confident and ambitious and to enjoy playing with others.” When playing with more than one child, scholastic.com says, “divide the family into teams, giving each player a job he can do well.
A younger child may be responsible for rolling the dice (which he considers important, since that is where the luck comes from), and an older child the job of sorting the Monopoly money.” Age does count in game-playing ability. Scholastic.com notes that as children approach age 5, “they have more sophisticated thinking skills and can begin to incorporate and exercise their number, letter and word knowledge in literacy-based games. By age 6, children may prefer more cognitively challenging games like checkers, which require and help develop planning, strategy, persistence and critical-thinking skills.” Scholastic’s picks for the younger set include Scrabble Junior, “the younger cousin of the tremendously educational and challenging Scrabble, which we all know and love;” Boggle Junior, “in which players link pictures to letter and words,” teaching letters, words, spelling and matching skills; Zingo, a Bingostyle matching game that encourages quick thinking; Monopoly Junior, which develops math, color recognition, reading, reasoning and social skills; Junior Labyrinth, in which “players have to figure out what to do when circumstances change unexpectedly—a good life skill to learn.” Jonathan H. Liu, who writes geekdad.com, suggests games for young kids based on the skill sets these games provide. For example, he believes the game Tsuro, “or other games in which each turn is short,” work well for children who are just beginning to play games. CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE
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MARCH 10, 2017 CONTINUED FROM THE PREVIOUS PAGE
Math skills can be learned through playing Numbers League, “or nearly any game with numbers,” Liu writes. “Not every board game requires math, but a vast number of them do rely on at least some basic arithmetic. Playing games will give your kids practice, improving their math skills and setting them up for STEM careers down the road.” There are “all sorts of benefits to exercising your brain when you’re older, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t start young,” Liu writes. “Playing games is a great way to keep your mind flexible and active.” He offers the suggestion of playing Ghost Blitz or Set to benefit this goal. “More complex games require you to think about not just what you’re doing this particular turn, but what your long-term strategy is,” Liu writes. “It doesn’t help to capture your opponent’s pawn if it means they’ll take your queen in the next move. The ability to think ahead while playing games will help your kids think ahead in real life, too.” Toward that end, Liu suggests that children play Pirate Dice, or Robot Turtles for young kids. “Actions have consequences,” Liu writes. “Your actions can have positive and negative consequences on both yourself and on others. Games give you a closed environment in which the cause-and-effect can be more easily tracked, but they help develop a mindset that will help you think about the consequences of your actions in a real world.” He suggests Zooloretto Mini as a game to play to emphasize this trait. “After your kids understand that actions have consequences, the next step is the ability to make difficult decisions,” Liu writers. “Games often require you to choose between equally rewarding (or punishing) options, and
playing them builds your ability to decide which criteria are relevant and what to ignore, and how to balance risk and reward.” To that end, Liu suggests playing the game Tahiti, in which “carrying more stuff means you get fewer actions, resulting in difficult decisions.” Flash Point: Fire Rescue and Forbidden Desert are games Liu suggests for building teamwork. “Cooperative games are on the rise, and they’re particularly great for parents,” he writes. “With these, you can ignore the ageold dilemma: Do I go easy on my kids, or teach them to get used to losing?” Being a good sport is important in game playing and life, too. “Playing competitive games with your kids lets you model how to be gracious, whether you win or lose. They’ll come to see that what you love is the play, not just the win,” Liu writes, suggesting Flash Duel can teach a valuable lesson. “One of my favorite things about getting my kids into a board game is that, for once, they’re not clamoring to sit in front of a screen,” Liu writes. “Playing games can provide rich faceto-face interaction that’s hard when your kid is playing Minecraft (not that Minecraft isn’t awesome).” His game suggestion is Krosmater Arena — “the giant figurines are such a tactile and visual feast.” To build a common bond, Liu recommends the game Fortune & Glory, calling it a shared experience of “pretty much fun that everyone enjoys.” Liu’s somewhat tongue in cheek theory about building a family bond by playing games is this: “By getting my kids hooked on games while they’re young, I’ll have a stronger relationship with them. Then when they become teenagers, I won’t have to worry about them getting into trouble because they’ll want to hang out with me and play games, right? Right?
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THE RECORD-REVIEW | PAGE 13A
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MARCH 10, 2017
PARENTING: Don’t forget to set aside some ‘YOU’ time BY MARY LEGRAND
P
arents with young kids and teens often feel immerse — even on the verge of drowning — in the never-ending process of raising their children. The kids can be in one’s face, 24/7, and mostly that’s fine. But many experts agree that parents must find time for themselves, too, both as individuals and couples. Doing that may quite literally save one’s sanity, but more importantly, make parents better at the job of raising children. Lara Honos-Webb, Ph.D., in an online Parenting magazine response to a question from a parent on parenting.com, wrote, “Parents need their own downtime and personal lives. If you are spending all of your free time running your children to their commitments, you’re not taking good care of yourself. Your marriage needs time for you and your spouse to have an adult conversation. If you are single, your romantic life needs you to have energy to spend in connecting with other people.” Also on parenting.com, Deborah R. Gilboa, M.D. offered advice on the physical aspect of regularly stepping back from parenting. “When adults take time for ourselves we relax,” she writes. “Blood pressure is lowered (unless ‘time for yourself’ means smoking or eating a whole lot of junk food!). We smile more, sleep better and have a more positive outlook. All of these factors combine to help us to be more positive in the rest of our lives — at work, at home and with those we love.” Dr. Gilboa notes that many parents give up working on their own hobbies or stepping away from parenting “because they believe
that there is no time, or their family needs them too much. Help your family value you more by valuing yourself. Your children will learn to show you respect when you show yourself that same respect, by pursuing an interest, hobby or activity that brings you pleasure. Your family members will have the opportunity to each take on one extra responsibility to free you up for a few hours a month while you do something that brings you joy. And they will find out how resilient they are when they step up and do a little more.” Doing this, according to Dr. Gilboa, will help children repeat the patterns of their parents, and, in doing so “create a healthy pattern in your home, where adults value their own passions and make a little time for those interests. Do you want your kids to grow up and value themselves and their abilities? They will learn from you, by example!”
2017
Women may disregard themselves more than men. On today.com, experts say that’s no surprise. “Women often feel guilty about taking time for themselves,” writes psychiatrist and Today contributor Dr. Gail Saltz. “There is some maternal ideal of being self-sacrificing that just isn’t consistent with having time for yourself. You have to put on your oxygen mask first. If you go to pieces, everyone is going down with you. So you have to give time to yourself. That is healthy — not selfish or narcissistic. That is a tough concept for a lot of women.” Even 15 to 30 minutes a day spent stepping away can suffice, Dr. Saltz notes in today.com, acknowledging that moments of free time can be few and far between for women: “Nobody is super human. If you are caring for your parents [in addition to children], ask other family members to pitch in, too. It’s okay to ask for help.”
From the website scanva.com, a section titled “Self-Care for Parents” offers practical advice. “Many parents today are overwhelmed with the stresses of family life,” scanva.com reads. “In fact, a lot of parents feel like they’re just treading water trying to keep up with the daily tasks associated with caring for children. Being a parent is not easy — it can feel as though we’re constantly focused on our children: feeding, clothing, teaching, disciplining and more all day long. But are you taking time to focus on yourself, too? If you’re like most parents, you need to be told that you’re worth focusing on, and that it’s okay to take time to take care of yourself.” Scanva.com suggests that physical self-care for parents can include “eating regularly in healthy ways; getting enough exercise; receiving regular, preventative medical care; sleeping enough; getting time away from the phone, email, TV, etc.; and spending time outdoors in fresh air and natural light.” If parents are not doing these basic things, “It’s time to rethink your daily routine,” scanva. com writes. “Maybe getting up 30 minutes early would give you a chance to take a walk or make breakfast before your children wake up, and going to bed an hour earlier would allow for more adequate sleep.” Scanva.com’s suggestions for emotional/ social/psychological self-care can include “spending time with friends and family; staying in touch with other people in your life; expressing emotions, allowing yourself to cry and finding things that make you happy; reading; working on your marriage and other relationships; getting a massage or going to a spa; reducing CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE
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stress; and saying no to other responsibilities.” The website’s suggestions for artistic/creative/spiritual self-care can include “giving yourself quiet time for self-reflection; attending a local place of worship; writing in a journal; spending time out in nature; and enjoying a hobby or trying something new.” Jennifer Patterson, ARCT, writes in psycentral.com about “The Benefits of Solitude for Kids and Parents Alike.” “By the time they’re born, [children] need to be loved and played with and stimulated,” she writes. “But that doesn’t mean you have to be hanging over their shoulders every minute of every day. There’s a line parents must balance between giving their children enough attention and overwhelming them with too much attention.” Patterson counsels that “allowing your children (and yourself) to have ‘me’ time enhances both of your lives, and can even strengthen your bond with each other. The goal is to balance family time with solitude. Take a look at the benefits of solitude and how to find the time for it.” There is “a lot of power in allowing both children and adults to spend time by themselves,” Patterson writes. “Experiencing solitude helps individuals learn certain tasks, think creatively and deal with their emotions. The right amount of time spent alone can even improve empathy and social skills.” Patterson acknowledges the busy nature of parenting these days: “According to one study, time spent actively engaged in teaching and playing with your kids has increased in recent decades, even though parents are working more than they used to. That means parents and children are spending less and less time alone. What’s worse is that if you leave your
THE RECORD-REVIEW | PAGE 15A
children alone — to ride their bikes around town, or to play games in their own bedrooms — there’s a good chance you’ll be judged for ‘neglecting’ them. Remember this: solitude and neglect are not synonymous.” She offers the opinion that quality time with children is more important than the quantity of time. “In fact,” Patterson writes, “as you spend more and more time with your kids, the effect on your children can worsen. When parents don’t get enough solitude, they become stressed and sleep-deprived, which adversely affects their kids. When you feel wiped out, exhausted or anxious, you aren’t giving your kids your best. What does matter is the quality of time you spend with them. Again, balance is key. Both children and parents need time spent together and apart.” Patterson’s practical solutions for those wondering how to follow her suggestions include reevaluating everyone’s schedules, perhaps even dropping an activity or two: “Taking on too much will only stress everyone out, and for health and well-being, you all need a couple of minutes alone every day. “Your time of solitude is a time to relax. You may use it to meditate or pursue a hobby. It is not a time to do chores, or check your work emails before bed. Try to take your ‘me’ time day by day. Go with the flow. Will it help you de-stress today? What are you in the mood for? Taking alone time may seem selfish in the eyes of other parents. If you’re met with judgment, remind yourself this is truly in everyone’s best interest. Give yourself permission to take a break and recharge. When you take care of yourself, you can better care for your children, because you’ll be operating at your best. And so will they. It’s a win-win scenario.”
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KIDS!
July 3rd - 21st, 2017 (closed July 4th) n
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Established in 1991, Camp Summerset is sponsored by The Learning Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering a lifelong passion for reading, writing, and learning.
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DAY CAMP GUIDE Amadeus “Grease” Theater and Art Day Camp
Camp Summerset at The Learning Institute
201 KING ST. CHAPPAQUA, NY (914) 238-0388
P.O. BOX 186 GOLDENS BRIDGE, NY 10526 (845) 223-4724
amadeusconservatoryofmusic@gmail.com www.amadeusconservatory.com Philosophy: The Amadeus Musical Theater Camp gives
Camp address: St. Matthews 382 Cantitoe St. Bedford Hills, NY Contact: Gina Santorini gina@thelearninginst.org campsummerset.org Philosophy: Summerset is a creative literacy experience
children ages 5-16 the opportunity to perform “Grease,” study two instruments, compose their own songs, play in jazz percussion, chamber and rock ensembles, create sets, dance and learn choreography and study studio art. Camp will culminate in a public performance of “Grease” in a professional theater, as well as an art show. Enrollment: 10-25 Camper-counselor ratio: 3:1 Calendar: Three-week session, June 26- July 14. One- or two-week sessions also available. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Fees: $2,477, $1652 (two weeks) or $726 (one week).
Boys & Girls Clubs of Northern Westchester 351 MAIN ST. MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 (914) 666-8069 Director: Barbara Cutri bostrye@bgcnw.com Philosophy: Entering its 21st year, Summer Adventure
Club is a fun, local four- or eight-week summer camp for children entering first-ninth grades. Located on 12 acres in the heart of Mt. Kisco, the camp offers onsite swimming three times per week, sports, outdoor games, arts and crafts, digital arts, game room and dance. Campers enjoy special programming and events (STEM, inflatable waterslides, petting zoo and Camp Olympics) and trips (Playland, adventure ropes course and more). New for grades 7-9, Adventure Travel Camp will feature three trips per week. Camp includes snack and lunch prepared by Ladle of Love. Enrollment: 250 Camper-counselor ratio: Grades 1-2, 6:1; grades 3-5, 8:1; grades 6-9, 10:1 Calendar: Four weeks: June 26-July 21 or July 24-Aug. 18. Eight weeks: June 26-Aug. 18. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Early care starting at 8 a.m., late care until 6 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: Call for info or to schedule a tour Special programs/other: Westmoreland, Playland, SplashDown, adventure ropes course and more. Registered with Westchester County Department of Health.
Breezemont Day Camp 62 COX AVE. ARMONK, NY 10504 (914) 367-1936 Director: Gordon Josey infor@breezemont.com breezemontdaycamp.com Philosophy: Breezemont’s exciting program includes a
variety of sports, arts and aquatics activities specifically designed to be age-appropriate for each group of campers. Breezemont is dedicated to finding the deeper intrinsic value of activities and promises to enrich your child’s experience at day camp. Campers navigate their day by learning new skills, taking healthy risks and accomplishing meaningful goals, all while developing their curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Enrollment: Over 500 Camper-counselor ratio: 4:1; 15 kids maximum per group Calendar: June 26-Aug. 18 Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: Door-to-door bus and SUV transportation Fees: See website Special programs/other: Breezemont provides personal tours for families seven days a week. To arrange a tour call or email the office.
Brunswick Sports Camps and Clinics 1252 KING ST. GREENWICH, CT 06831 (203) 625-5854 Director: Johnny Montanez summercamps@brunswickschool.org www.bwick.org/summersportscamp Philosophy: Developing strong minds and athletes
with an emphasis on character by providing a positive and safe atmosphere with experienced teachers and coaches. Enrollment: Varies by week Camper-counselor ratio: 6:1 Calendar: June 12-July 21 Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Early and late options available. Transportation: Yes Fees: $475.
Camp Critter SPCA OF WESTCHESTER 590 NORTH STATE RD. BRIARCLIFF MANOR, NY 10510 (914) 941-2896, EXT. 28 Director: Alice Shanahan alice@spca914.org spca914.org Philosophy: Campers learn about animals, animal
sheltering, how they can help animals find their forever homes and what they can do for them to make their time at the shelter as enriching as possible. Daily interaction with shelter animals. Enrollment: 20 campers per session Camper-counselor ratio: 4/5:1 Calendar: Six weeks beginning July 10 and ending on Aug. 18. Campers are limited to one week each so as many children as possible can be reached. Weeks of July 10 and 24 and Aug. 7 are for 6-9-year-olds, while the weeks of July 17 and 31 and Aug. 14 are for 10-12-yearolds. Hours: 1-4 p.m., Monday-Friday Transportation: No Fees: $350. Family discounts are available Special Programs/Other: Clicker training; animal cruelty prevention workshops; safety with animals.
Camp Hillard 26 ELIZABETH ST. SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (914) 949-8857 Directors: Jon and Jim Libman camp@camphillard.com
www.camphillard.com Philosophy: Campers learn skills while having fun in a
safe, active and well-supervised environment with first class facilities and superb staff. Celebrating 89 years of one-family ownership. Located on 20 beautiful acres in the Edgemont section of Greenburgh. The program is a balance of outstanding swimming and sports instruction combined with high quality creative and performing arts programs and exciting special events. Enrollment: 800 Camper-counselor ratio: 3:1 Calendar: June 26-Aug. 18 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: Door-to-door air-conditioned school buses driven by professional drivers and supervised by camp staff. Fees: Mini day: 3s and 4s, $7,175; Full day: $9,175 (both programs include transportation and lunch). Any four, five, six or seven weeks also available. Call or visit website for more information. Special programs/other: Activities include swim instruction in seven heated pools, baseball, basketball, hockey, soccer, softball, lacrosse, flag football, tennis, gymnastics, pony rides, arts and crafts, drawing, painting, jewelry, ceramics, nature, theater, music, zip line, flying squirrel, climbing wall, mini golf, archery, gaga, mini sleep away program, day trips, horseback, golf and sports specialization programs for older campers.
Camp Keshet at Bet Torah Nursery School 60 SMITH AVE. MT. KISCO, NY 10549 (914) 666-7595 Directors: Amy Portnoy, Caryn Strongwater aportnoy@bettorah.org www.bettorah.org Philosophy: Camp Keshet is a developmentally appro-
priate pre-school morning program for children entering a 3s, 4s or kindergarten fall program. Daily indoor and outdoor explorations include art, movement, gardening, science, music, nature, cooking and Shabbat celebration. Enrollment: 39 Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: June 12-Aug. 4 Hours: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: $800-$1995 depending on number of weeks enrolled Special programs/other: Camp Keshet offers themed weeks such as Wild West Week, Outer Space Week and Dinosaur Week. Special pizza Friday Shabbat lunches.
that takes place each summer in Bedford Hills. It is founded on the belief that children need a safe and nurturing place to learn and grow, where each child’s interests and individual expression are nurtured and celebrated within a community of learners. At Summerset, learning is exciting, fulfilling, and fun. Since The Learning Institute was founded in 1991, the goal has remained the same, seeking to provide children with a summer experience that is fun, enjoyable and rewarding to foster and reinforce a passion for reading and writing that will last a lifetime. The many children who return every year is a testament to the program’s success. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor ratio: n/a Calendar: July 3-21, closed July 4 Hours: 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Enrichment programs (Art & Nature, Sports & Wellness, Destination Imagination) 12:45-2:15 p.m. Extended day 2:15-3 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: See website. Discount prior to June 1. Special programs/other: Bring a snack for regular day, lunch for enrichment programs. Campers who sign up for enrichment programs will experience all programs on a rotating basis. There is a $50 activity fee, which includes pizza Friday, healthy snacks, visiting artists and celebration night. Prior to beginning the journey, a language arts assessment is sent to each child’s present teacher. This assessment helps to determine successful group placement.
Creative Summer at the Mead School 1095 RIVERBANK RD. STAMFORD, CT 06903 (203) 595-9500 EXT. 63 Director: David L. Jackins creativesummermead@yahoo.com www.creativesummermead.org Philosophy: Children as artists working with artists. Chil-
dren 6.5-16 years old pursue five daily classes for four weeks. Course offerings may include musical theater, dance, video, creative writing, drawing, painting, design, role play, animation, improv, cartooning and more. Staff are professional artists, entertainers and/or educators. The program ends with Festival Day, a celebration of all the arts experienced during the program. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor ratio: 8:1 Calendar: One four-week session, June 26-July 21 Transportation: No Fees: $1,995 Special programs/other: Performing, visual and expressive arts.
Ethical Culture Nursery School Summer Camp 7 SAXON WOOD RD. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10605 (914) 948-1132 Director: Ea Jensen mynurseryscl@gmail.com www.ecswnurseryschool.com Philosophy: This program, for 2s and 3s (from current
2s and 3s classes), includes outdoor play, water, sand, mud, work in the vegetable garden, art experiences and CONTINUED ON PAGE 17A
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The Record-Review 2017 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16A music. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: Monday, June 26-Friday, July 28 (five weeks)
for four or five days per week (choose either one or all five weeks) Hours: 9 a.m.-noon Transportation: No Fees: Available upon request. Special programs/other: Incoming 2s Camp, July 5-26, 9-10:15 a.m. This program is for children who have signed up for the 2s program starting in the fall 2017.
French Immersion Camp FRENCH AMERICAN SCHOOL OF NEW YORK 111 LARCHMONT AVE. LARCHMONT, NY 10538 (914) 413-3665 Director: Sara Parson-Lobner camps@fasny.org www.fasny.org/camps Philosophy: Using years of excellence in bilingual educa-
tion, FASNY has designed a unique program where children will learn French by doing. Research shows that an early start, teachers with native fluency, total immersion and practical experience are essential steps on the path to language proficiency. From experience we know that, if the enjoyment is there, the learning of the language will naturally take place. That’s why FASNY’s program revolves around fun, hands-on activities led by native French instructors who will stimulate the children’s conversation skills, but also open them to the French and Francophone cultures. FASNY welcomes preschoolers as young as 3 years old, half day or full day, as long as they are potty-trained and ready for this wonderful adventure. In small groups, the children will hear and speak French all day through fun activities that will respect their rhythm. Quiet time is also scheduled. The program for children in grades 1-5 will stimulate their conversation skills while exposing them to fun and unique activities such as music in French with our artistin-residence, cooking, science and technology projects, dance and yoga, art, sports and more. There is one hour of French class per day for all campers. Enrollment: Ages 3-13 Camper-counselor ratio: 8:1 Calendar: June 26-July 21 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with optional extended day Transportation: No Fees: Half day, $250; full day, $500.
Future Stars Summer Camps SUNY PURCHASE COLLEGE 735 ANDERSON HILL RD. PURCHASE, NY 10577 (914) 273-8500 Director: Jordan Snider purchase@fscamps.com www.fscamps.com Philosophy: Dreaming of a place where your child can
advance his or her skills as well as have the time of their life during the summer? Look no further than Future Stars Summer Camps located at state-of-the-art facilities in the heart of Westchester. The staff and limited enrollment allows campers the opportunity to maximize their skill development and become well-rounded athletes and individuals. Campers can choose and combine weeks from 19 personalized specialty programs: tennis, soccer, basketball, baseball, boy’ and girls’ lacrosse, flag football, football, multi-sports, field hockey, cheerleading, volleyball, circus arts, magic, softball, diving, horseback riding, swim, STEAM education and rising stars (the youngest campers). Each program includes three to four hours of specific training in the chosen sport, as well as supervised recreational swimming and instructional swim for Rising Stars. Campers are encouraged to play with confidence, enthusiasm and a genuine love of the game. Enrollment: 600 ages 4-16 Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: Weekly June 19-Aug. 25 Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: Door-to-door transportation available
from most of Westchester. Fees: Call for fees Special programs/other: Lunch option available.
Harvey Cavalier Summer Camp 260 JAY ST. KATONAH, NY 10536 (914) 232-0581 Director: Vinny Alexander cavaliercamp@harveyschool.org www.harveycavaliercamp.org Philosophy: The six-week summer program offers kids
ages 4-14 a chance to explore their interests and talents in an enriching and nurturing environment where fun abounds. Kids create their own summer schedule, choosing from a host of electives in fine arts, crafts, theater, dance, music, swimming, ice skating, sports, science and more. Enrollment: Pre-k through first grade (Little Cavs), 40; grades 2-9, 230 Camper to staff ratio: 3:1 Calendar: July 5-Aug. 11 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (10 a.m.-2 p.m. option for Little Cavs) Transportation: Bus routes limited to those living in the Armonk/Mt. Kisco/Chappaqua and Briarcliff/Millwood areas at an extra fee. Fees: $2,600 for Little Cavs (extended day options available); $4,300 for grades 2-9. Fee includes lunch. Weekly options available at pro-rated fees.
Hoff-Barthelson Music School Summer Arts Program 25 SCHOOL LANE SCARSDALE, NY 10583 (914) 723-1169 Director: Joe Piscitelli summerarts@hbms.org hbms.org Philosophy: The program offers a stimulating, chal-
lenging and enjoyable summer experience in music, visual arts and theater for second-10th-graders. Lessons, ensembles and weekly concert performances. Basic morning program can be combined with a variety of extended day options, such as world drumming, musical theater workshop, chamber music or jazz workshops, wind serenade, composers corner, music tech lab and HB Rocks! guitar ensemble. Enrollment: Second-10th graders Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: June 26-July 28 Hours: 9 a.m.-noon for basic program; extended day options to 2 or 5 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: See website. Early bird discount on full program until March 31. Special programs/other: Scholarships available.
Hole-In-One Junior Golf Camp DUNWOODIE AND SPRAIN LAKE GOLF COURSES, YONKERS; HUDSON HILLS, OSSINING; MAPLE MOOR, WHITE PLAINS; SAXON WOODS, SCARSDALE; AND MOHANSIC, YORKTOWN HEIGHTS (914) 231-4673 Director: Beth Bricker babc@westchestergov.com www.parks.westchestergov.com/children-camps Philosophy: Young people ages 10-17 can learn the
fundamentals of golf and hone their skills under the direction of top PGA pros in Westchester. Enrollment: Varies Camper-counselor ratio: Varies Hours: Vary Transportation: No Fees: $50/session
John Jay Homestead Summer Camp 400 JAY ST. P.O. BOX 832 KATONAH, NY 10536 (914) 232-5651 EXT. 101 Director: Ariana Scecchitano Ariana.scecchitano@parks.ny.gov
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p DAY CAMP GUIDE www.johnjayhomestead.org Philosophy: Delve into the exciting world of spying,
(203) 322-0253 Directors: Geoff, Herm and Myrna Alswanger
espionage and secret agents. Learn the tools and methods people have been using to spy on each other since ancient times. Discover what it takes to become a secret agent through games, activities and special guests. Join us if you dare. Enrollment: 24/week, grades 2-6 Camper-counselor ratio: 8:1 Calendar: July 17-21 and 24-28 Hours: 9a.m.-3:30 p.m. Transportation: No Fee: $300/week. Ten percent discount for registrations received by April and a 10 percent discount for family level members of Friends of John Jay Homestead.
mail@longridgecamp.com www.longridgecamp.com Philosophy: Set on 15 acres in Connecticut’s beautiful
Karate Camp at Westchester MMA-FIT 333 N. BEDFORD RD. SUITE 228 MT KISCO, NY 10549 (914) 244-8888 Director: Chad Weiss contact@westchestermmafit.com westchestermmafit.com/karate-camp.html Philosophy: Every day is an awesome experience when
your child joins Karate Camp. Through martial arts activities, kids will build confidence, improve motor skills, develop coordination, enhance listening skills and learn how to keep a positive attitude. Activities include martial arts classes, traditional outdoor camp games, arts and crafts and trampoline time at Rockin’ Jump. Camper-counselor ratio: 8:1 Calendar: July 31-August 25 Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: $250-$497/week Special programs/other: Special savings for early enrollment, multi-week discounts.
Katonah Arts Center Summer Camps 65 OLD BEDFORD RD. GOLDENS BRIDGE, NY 10526 (914) 232-4843 katonahartcenter.com/summer-camps/ Philosophy: Art & Imagination Camps (ages 3.5-5) are
designed to provide a warm, welcoming environment geared specifically towards the creative spirit of the young child. Kids Camp (grades 1-5) is a great alternative to full-day summer-long programs. Small camp groups enable students to receive individual attention in a warm, family-like atmosphere. All art camps are oneweek sessions with half-day, full-day and extended-day options. Teen Camp (grades 6 and up) is a great option for teens that love art and might be too old for or bored by traditional day camps. Each one-week session will focus intensively on a single topic. The goal is to instill in each camper the skills needed to continue to explore the subject independently. Young Adult Art Academy (grades 9 and up) is a new intensive art program for high school students who are looking for a sophisticated and passionate environment to explore multiple mediums of art. Enrollment: Check the description for specific age groups. Camper-counselor ratio: n/a Calendar: n/a Hours: Art & Imagination Pre-School Camps: mornings, 9:45 a.m.-12:15pm; afternoons, 1:15-3:45 p.m. Kids & Teen Camps: mornings, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; afternoons, 1-4 p.m. Young Adult Academy: afternoons, 1-6 p.m. Mornings 8:30-9:30 a.m. costs $10/day; afternoons 4-5:30 p.m. costs $15/day. Early drop-off or late pick-ups that exceed 15 minutes will be charged the extended day rate. Transportation: No Fees: Call for info. Special programs/other: Freaky Fridays: Each Friday the entire KAC staff and campers are encouraged to come to camp dressed as outrageously as possible. A visit from the ice cream truck completes the fun (don’t forget to bring your ice cream money). Fridays will include KAC’s Comic Con.
Long Ridge Camp 478 ERSKINE RD. STAMFORD, CT 06903
countryside right over the Pound Ridge border, children ages 3-14 experience a traditional day camp setting. The program includes expert swimming instruction, baseball, basketball, soccer, crafts, nature, dance, drama, ropes with zip line, special events and so much more. Individual achievement is encouraged and taught by the staff of experienced and highly trained counselors. Ask about pre-school/nursery camp for 3-5-year-olds. Call the Alswanger family, directors for the past 55 years. Enrollment: 350 Camper-counselor ratio: Better than 3: Calendar: June 26-Aug. 18. Four-, five-, six-, seven- and eight-week sessions available. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., with early drop-off (starting at 8:15 a.m.) and late afternoon pick-up (until 5:15 p.m.) at no extra charge. Transportation: Provided to Armonk, Chappaqua, Bedford, Pound Ridge, South Salem, Cross River, Katonah, Pleasantville, Rye Brook and surrounding towns. Fees: Available upon request.
Mitchell Spearman Junior Golf Summer Camp DORAL ARROWWOOD 975 ANDERSON HILL RD. RYE BROOK, NY 10573 (800) 733-1653 Director: Joanna Dove info@mitchellspearman.com www.spearmanjuniorgolf.com Philosophy: Premium instruction and a positive learning
experience are the foundations to golf success. The camp works on all aspects of the game — full-swing, short game, putting, on-course strategy and play — as well as utilizing the latest in technology. Enrollment: Ages 6-16 Camper-counselor ratio: 6:1 Calendar: June 5-Sept. 1 Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-noon Fees: $1,195/week. Sign up for one week minimum. Multi-week, multi-golfer and early registration discounts available. Special programs/other: Winter indoor program running now. Max six per session. Spring program outdoors commences April 1. Many sign-up options running MondayFriday, 4-6 p.m. and weekends 2-6 p.m. Minimum one day per week. Two-hour classes. Pee Wees for ages 4-7 will beheld Wednesdays and Sundays. Join in any time as long as space is available for one-hour classes.
Mohawk Day Camp 200 OLD TARRYTOWN RD. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10603 (914) 949-2635 Director: Adam Wallach Fun@CampMohawk.com www.CampMohawk.com Philosophy: Mohawk Day Camp is excited to celebrate
its 88th summer. Mohawk provides campers with an authentic, traditional camp experience with a focus on aquatics and instructional programs in sports, adventure, creative/performing arts and adventure. Campers ages 3-13 are placed in grade-specific groups led by teachers and college-aged counselors. Facility highlights include eight heated-pools, 14 tennis courts, two field houses, farm, water slides, ropes course and more. New for 2017 Mohawk is adding a Performing Arts Center, which includes a theatre, gymnastics center and dance studio. Tuition includes air-conditioned bus transportation, daily snacks, hot lunch, towel service and camp apparel. The mission at Mohawk Day Camp is for campers to have fun, be active and enjoy a spirited and caring community where they can grow. The careCONTINUED ON PAGE 18A
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Director: Kirstin Zarras director@prccplayschool.com prccplayschool.com Philosophy: PRCC offers a half-day mini-camp program
fully selected and trained staff has an unrivaled knack for inspiring fun, fostering camaraderie and creating a safe, supportive and stimulating environment. For more information or to schedule a tour, visit the website or call the camp office. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor ratio: 3:1 Calendar: Main Camp, June 26-Aug. 18 Hours: Full day, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (ages 3-13); mini day, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. (ages 3-entering kindergarten); half day, 9 a.m.-noon (ages 3-4) Transportation: Door-to-door on air-conditioned buses with counselor, included in tuition. Fees: Call for tuition and flexible enrollment options.
Mount Kisco Child Care Center
dmeyerski@mkccc.org www.mkccc.org Philosophy: Kids say, “The best part of summer is no
school and no homework!” But the learning never ends at Mount Kisco Child Care Center. Children spend the summer engaged in farming/gardening and cooking activities and create a working farmer’s market to sell produce grown on site. They are involved in exercise programs and daily swimming at the town pool. They are also involved in creative arts programs and weekly field trips and/or special events. The full day camp program begins at the end of June and runs eight weeks through the end of August. Mount Kisco Child Care Center has been creating fun and stimulating camp programs for school-age children for 46 years. There are designated age-appropriate play spaces, both indoors and outdoors. The supportive, highly qualified teachers — all of whom are over 18 years of age — provide a warm and safe environment for your child. It has always been MKCCC’s mission to provide high quality child care with an emphasis on enhancing each child’s self-esteem and celebrating the diversity of our community. Enrollment: 130 infants through school-age Camper-counselor ratio: Varies by age group, but exceeds all licensing requirements Calendar: June 26-Aug. 25 Hours: 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: Vary Special programs/other: Farming/nutrition program, intergenerational program, field trips, music, swimming.
MVP Basketball Camp 29 HOMESIDE LANE WHITE PLAINS, NY 10605 (914) 946-1231 Director: Noel Muyskens nmuyskens@mvpbasketballcamp.org www.mvpbasketballcamp.org Philosophy: The camp teaches boys and girls from 6-16
the fundamentals of basketball and allows for plenty of gameplay within relatively narrow age groups. Enrollment: 250/week Camper-counselor ratio: 6:1 Calendar: June 26-Aug. 4 in Rye and White Plains Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Early drop-off and extended hours available. Transportation: Busing options vary by week from Mount Kisco, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon and Yonkers. Fees: Five-day camps, $400/week. Multiple child and multi-week discounts available. Special programs/other: Quality coaches and great guest speakers helped MVP get recognized as a “Best of Westchester” day camp.
New York Rock Academy 225 NORTH GREELEY AVE. CHAPPAQUA, NY 10514 (914) 238-3123 DAY CAMP LOCATION:
MUSIC IN CHAPPAQUA 225 NORTH GREELEY AVE. CHAPPAQUA, NY 10514 Director: Janet Angier mail@musicinchappaqua.com www.newyorkrockacademy.com Philosophy: New York Rock Academy is a specialty
program designed to maximize the potential of every student. Students ages 8 and up form groups alongside those of similar experience and immediately begin making music. Beginners will find themselves performing complete arrangements of their favorite songs by the end of a single session. Advanced players will have an opportunity to fine-tune their skills, learning subtle and not-so-subtle lessons about instrumental or vocal technique and the organization of a rock ensemble. The motivating force at New York Rock Academy is excitement. Regardless of level, all students will be encouraged to explore the music they truly love. Our experienced staff provides a stimulating, fun atmosphere. Enrollment: n/a Camper-counselor ratio: 4:1 Calendar: Weekly sessions from June 26-Aug. 18 Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: $750/weekly session, $75 registration fee (this fee is waived for matriculating students).
Patriot Camp at Ridgefield Academy 223 WEST MOUNTAIN RD. RIDGEFIELD, CT 06877 (203) 894-1800 Contact: Donna Kauth (ext. 106) dkauth@ridgefieldacademy.org. ridgefieldacademy.org/summerprograms Philosophy: This summer, Ridgefield Academy is cel-
ebrating over 30 years of extraordinary camp programs and you’re invited to celebrate, too. Patriot Camp (for children ages 5-11) is designed to integrate physical activity and educational opportunities. The excellent staff is comprised of teachers, teacher assistants, as well as energetic college and high school students. Activities vary and are based on weekly themes. Depending on the week, campers will have the opportunity to enjoy whacky science experiments, take a variety of fun field trips, cook in the kitchen lab, create fun arts and crafts projects, participate in exciting sports, as well as enjoy a wide variety of games and water activities. Enrollment: Ages 5-11 Camper-counselor ratio: n/a Calendar: TBA Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Before care available from 8-9 a.m. for an additional charge. Transportation: n/a Fees: Call for info.
Pound Ridge Community Church Mini-Camp 3 POUND RIDGE RD. POUND RIDGE, NY 10576
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p DAY CAMP GUIDE (914) 764-4360
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95 RADIO CIRCLE MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 (914) 241-2135 Director: Dawn Meyerski
for 3-5-year-old, preschool age children. Every year PRCC follows a fun and exciting theme with coordinated, developmentally appropriate activities. This year’s theme is, Get Up and Go! This theme is built around movement, games and fun nature activities. Children will spend plenty of time in outdoor play. They will also experience arts and crafts, music, snack and story each day. PRCC will also include a water day and a bike day. The goal is to provide a fun and relaxing camp experience for your young child. Enrollment: Call the school or email the director for application and further information. Camper-counselor ratio: 6:1 Calendar: June 12-23 Hours: 9:15 a.m.-noon Transportation: No Fees: $200/week if payment made on or before May 1. After May 1, fee increases to $250/week.
Pound Ridge Tennis Club Summer Camps 2 MAJOR LOCKWOOD LANE POUND RIDGE, NY 10576 (914) 764-8871 Directors: Austin Gardella, Candice Srubar Leonard GardellaAustin@gmail.com poundridgetennisclub.com/summercamps.aspx Philosophy: Instruction available for all ability levels. Enrollment: Up to six weeks Camper-pro ratio: 5:1 Calendar: June-August Mondays-Thursdays, dates TBA Hours: Pee Wee (ages 4-6), 3:30-4:30 p.m., Monday
and Wednesday; Baseliner (ages 7-9), 4:30-5:30 p.m., Monday and Wednesday; Spinners (ages 10-12), 3-4 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday; Extreme (ages 13-17); 4-5:30 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday Transportation: No Fees: See website Special programs/other: Suitable white attire and tennis sneakers required. Junior team clinic also available.
Sound Scientist Summer Camp THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK 10 N. WATER ST. NORWALK, CT 06854 (203) 852-0700 EXT. 1201 Director: Ann Marie Lisi campdirector@maritimeaquarium.org maritimeaquarium.org Philosophy: Children between the ages of 5-15 discover
the fun side of scientific inquiry in summer sessions at the aquarium. Kids go beyond the books with exciting, age-appropriate, hands-on activities in private classrooms, unique exhibits, new research vessel and larger-than-life IMAX movie theater. Activities and topics vary by session. Enrollment: 30/session (except where noted on program brochure) Camper-counselor ratio: 7:1 Calendar: Week long sessions June 19-Aug. 25. Special three-week Teen Apprentice sessions July 10-28 and Aug. 7-25. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; optional pre-care 8:30-9:30 a.m. and post-care 4-5:30 p.m. Teen Apprentice hours 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: Member/non-member pricing. Session fees vary by topic. Refer to maritimeaquarium.org/fun-learning/ kids-families/vacation-and-summer-camps-see-note/ summer-sound-science-camp for more specifics. Special programs/other: Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.
Summer at Wooster WOOSTER SCHOOL 91 MIRY BROOK RD. DANBURY, CT 06810 (203) 830-3921
Director: Jeff Carone summeratwooster@woosterschool.org summeratwooster.org Philosophy: Summer is a time for kids to be kids. It’s as
simple as that. Wooster’s camp experience is designed around giving kids the chance to tap into what makes them happy, what challenges them, what sparks curiosity, what causes fits of giggles, what inspires creativity, what drives ambition, what creates lasting friendships. And kids — with their boundless energy and fearless excitement — know how to do all this much better than rule-abiding, schedule-stickler grown-ups can do. So, Wooster’s role as “not-so-stuffy, kids-at heart” adults is to provide a variety of activities, letting campers design their perfect day…and to give parents confidence that their child’s time at Wooster strikes that healthy balance of lots of learning tucked inside lots of fun. Campers are discoverers and explorers. Wooster provides the safe and nurturing environment for them to find activities that match their interest. And then, through a “createyour-day” approach, to let them explore the unexpected world of Summer at Wooster in ways that ignite their brain, move their bodies, and fuel their passions. During the last 21 years of Summer at Wooster, they camp has learned a thing or two about encouraging kids to become their very best selves. And they’ve become better leaders and happier people each and every season. It’s all about child’s play — your child’s play — and Wooster wouldn’t have it any other way. Enrollment: 200 pre-k to eighth grade Camper-counselor ratio: 10:1 Calendar: Seven weekly sessions, June 26-Aug. 11 Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Extended hours are 7:30-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. (additional fee). Fees: $350/week Special programs/other: Let’s Put On A Musical: “Disney’s Alice in Wonderland, Jr.,” is a two-week, all-day course. Sessions 4 and 5, July 17-28. Costs $750. Let’s Put On A Play: “The Phantom Tollbooth,” a one-week, all-day course. Session 3, July 10-14. Costs $400.
Summer Fun at Temple Shaaray Tefila Early Childhood Center 89 BALDWIN RD. BEDFORD CORNERS, NY 10549 (914) 666-3133 Director: Debra Frankel dfrankel@templest.org shaaraytefila.org/learn/early-engagement/summeractivities Philosophy: The eight-week summer program for tod-
dlers and preschoolers is open to children enrolled in the regular school-year programs, as well as children who will join only in the summer. Based in the classrooms, the camp offers a balance of outdoor play, water play, large and small scale arts and crafts activities, sports, theme days, mud play and music, ultimately providing a nurturing summer experience for young children not quite ready for a full-day camp experience. Enrollment: Mini camps for two weeks and full camps for six weeks Camper-counselor ratio: n/a Calendar/hours: Mini Camp for current 2s: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Monday, June 12-Friday, June 23, 9:15 a.m.-noon. Mini Camp for current 3s and 4s: MondayFriday, Monday, June 12-Friday, June 23, 9:15 a.m.-noon or 2 p.m. Regular Session Camp for new, incoming 2s and 3s to be: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Monday, June 26-Friday, Aug. 4, 9:15 a.m.-noon. Regular Session Camp for returning 3s to be and 3s: Monday-Friday, Monday, June 26-Friday, Aug. 4, 9:15 a.m.-noon or 2 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: See website. Special programs/other: Nut-free and allergy aware. All families are invited to weekly Family Shabbat Celebrations on Fridays at noon. All indoor play spaces are fully air-conditioned.
Summers at Landmark Preschool BEDFORD, NY (914) 393-2293 Director: Ann Hirsch CONTINUED ON PAGE 19A
MARCH 10, 2017
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THE RECORD-REVIEW | PAGE 19A
p DAY CAMP GUIDE Transportation: No Fees: $160-$728, plus $8.25 registration fee Special programs/other: Other programs offered are
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18A ahirsch@landmarkpreschool.org
RIDGEFIELD, CT (203) 894-1800 EXT. 109 Director: Alison O’Callaghan
public speaking and debate camp, teen art institutes, fashion camp and teen art portfolio development.
aocallaghan@ridgefieldacademy.org
YWCA Summer Camps
REDDING, CT (203) 544-8393 Director: Ann Hirsch
YWCA WHITE PLAINS & CENTRAL WESTCHESTER 515 NORTH ST. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10605 (914) 949-6227 Philosophy: YWCA Summer Camps strive to create the perfect setting in which children can experience the best of summer camp: develop lasting friendships and memories, increase self-esteem by meeting fun new challenges and learn and play in a nurturing, individualized, safe environment. Camp Funkist for children turning 4 through teens, while the Gymnastics Summer Program for ages 6-15 features seven action-packed weeks of fun on all the Olympic events. Camper-counselor ratio: n/a Calendar: Begins June 26 Hours: Vary by program. Early drop-off and late pick-up for an additional fee.
ahirsch@landmarkpreschool.org
WESTPORT, CT (203) 226-6982 Director: Siobhan Powers spowers@landmarkpreschool.org landmarkpreschool.org Philosophy: Landmark Preschool is an independent day
school serving children ages 1-5. Affiliate with Ridgefield Academy, Landmark has four campuses. The mission of Landmark Preschool’s summer program is to provide children with a fun and enriching experience that celebrates the excitement of being a child. Landmark’s summer program offers a low student-to-teacher ratio in a safe environment. The energetic staff guides children through fun and unique experiences. Daily activities include music, arts, stories, technology, indoor play, outdoor play and water activities. Enrollment: Programs for ages 1-5. Registration begins in April. Camper-counselor ratio: n/a Calendar: n/a Hours: n/a Transportation: n/a Fees: Call for info. Special programs/other: Landmark Preschool is accredited by the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools.
Teaches Basketball Camps 59 SOUTH GREELEY AVE. CHAPPAQUA, NY 10514 (914) 238-0278 Director: Terry Teachout teacheshoops.com Philosophy: Teaches is celebrating its 30th year of
camps. The success is based on all children participating and having fun. Various skill levels welcome. Throughout the week there are a variety of competitions and league play for everyone. Structured teams make league play organized with an assigned coach to each team for the week. Every camper receives a basketball, bag and camp shirt. There are various locations throughout Westchester County: Rye Brook, Chappaqua, Armonk, Irvington, Sleepy Hollow, Yorktown, Cortlandt and Rye. Also Ridgefield, Conn. Enrollment: 30-100/week Camper-counselor ratio: 7:1 Calendar: June 26-Aug. 25. You can enroll for one week at a time or multiple. Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Transportation: No Fees: $325-$440 Special programs/other: Teaches offers unique NBA
player camps. Throughout the summer different locations will be NBA player specific, a great way to meet and experience celebrity players. Teaches also has two weeks of Shooting Camps in Armonk.
Westchester & Fairfield Swim Camp MAILING: P.O. BOX 34 PLEASANTVILLE, NY 10570 PHYSICAL: PACE UNIVERSITY 861 BEDFORD RD. PLEASANTVILLE, NY 10570 (914) 588-2971 Director: Katherine Palladino kpalladino@westfairswim.com westfairswim.com Philosophy: Developing an important life skill while
having fun doing it. Camp focuses on individual swim development and water safety for all levels of campers between the ages of 4-14. Swimmers receive instruction in small groups where the children are of similar age, skill and experience. Every camper is personally monitored to ensure there is improvement in this life-saving skill. Extra private instructional swim time is provided when needed. To balance out the day, a variety of land activities are built in such as field games, fun fitness, obstacle courses tie-dying, carnival days and scavenger hunts. The unparalleled staff includes seasoned Ameri-
Linda Arpino, RDN, CDN, FAND Registered & Certified Dietitian/Nutritionist Serving Children, Teens and Families for 35 Years
Weight Management Cholesterol Intervention Chronic Disease Prevention Sports Nutrition Eating Disorders Vegetarian Diets ADHD & Downs Syndrome One-to-one consultation in office. Learn about Environmental Nutrition including Genetically Modified Foods & Health Optimization. We accept most insurance. Visit www.lifefocusnutrition.com 14 Rye Ridge Plaza, Suite 223 Rye Brook, NY
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can Red Cross Water Safety instructors and teachers selected for their expertise, but also for their ability to be exceptional role models. Enrollment: 85/week Camper-counselor ratio: 5:1 Calendar: June 26-July 28 Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Extended hours available. Transportation: No Fees: $425/week Special programs/other: Junior Lifeguard Training.
Westchester Community College Center for the Arts Art Camp WESTCHESTER COUNTY CENTER 196 CENTRAL AVE. WHITE PLAINS, NY 10606 (914) 606-7500 Director: Lisa Santalis Arts@sunywcc.edu Sunywcc.edu/arts Philosophy: Explorations may include drawing, painting,
sculpture, printmaking and more. Students will be introduced to and work with a variety of quality materials and will experiment with different styles, inspired by artists and art movements. This interactive program blends fun with fine art (clay sculpture, drawing, painting, digital art, crafts, mixed media, architecture). Enrollment: 60 Camper-counselor ratio: 16:1 Calendar: June 26-Aug. 18 Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Transportation: Fees: See website. Special programs/other: Minimum of two weeks
required for gymnastics program.
Zephyr Farm Summer Camp 219 WATERMELON HILL RD. MAHOPAC, NY 10541 (845) 621-4450 zephyrfarminc.com/summercamp.html Philosophy: Founded in 1994, Zephyr Farm is a full
service equestrian training facility owned and operated by leading horsewoman and trainer, Carla Sacco. Whether you are an accomplished junior, amateur, adult or beginner rider, the staff will hone your skills to help you achieve your riding goals. Riders of all levels are welcome and are afforded the very best training by a staff of experienced, caring professionals who are committed to excellence in equitation, hunters and jumpers. Camp day includes: 1-1.5 hour riding lesson; lectures on topics including breeds, care and handling of horses, tack and equipment, stable safety and management; guest speakers including equine dentist and farrier; hands-on horse care; and arts and crafts projects Enrollment: Weekly sessions Camper-counselor ratio: n/a Calendar: June 26-Sept. 1 Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Extended day available, 1-4 p.m. Transportation: No Fees: See website.
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Healthy eating CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11A
Said Rosenfeld, “Healthy eating is about incorporating a variety of whole, unprocessed foods into your diet that provide the nutrients needed to maintain your health and energy levels. These nutrients include lean protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fat, water, vitamins and minerals.” “I define healthy eating as having a wide variety of foods in moderation,” Leon said. “Healthy eating means there is no deprivation and recognizes that some foods are more nutrient dense than others. In other words, there are some foods we eat more often for their nutritional benefits — ‘everyday’ foods like dairy, lean meats and fish, legumes, fruits, vegetable, whole grains, and healthy fats, and ‘sometimes’ foods we enjoy, but eat less frequently, like sweets. However, I never describe foods as good or bad and never place any moral judgment on a food value.” There are many ways parents can promote or encourage healthy eating in their children. Arpino advises including three food groups at each meal: protein, vegetable or fruit and whole, unprocessed grain or starchy vegetables such as sweet potatoes, and choosing protein more often from plants, such as beans, lentils, tofu and nuts or nut butters. She also says families should avoid eating on the run, something that is often easier said than done, but is very important. “Plan meals to be relaxed and sitting down without distractions,” Arpino said. “This helps hormonal balance and lowers adrenal and cortisol build up.” Arpino also advises limiting foods that are
KIDS!
high in sugar, salt and saturated fat from animals, such as cheese. “Select less-processed foods using whole, fresh fruit and vegetables, not veggie chips,” she said. Rosenfeld has five top tips for parents to promote healthy eating. The first? Model good behavior. “Children learn what, when and how much to eat through their own experiences with food and, of course, by watching others,” Rosenfeld said. “A child learns food habits from Mom and Dad. Think about it, if you make healthy choices, your children are more inclined to follow your lead. Eat with your children so they can see what healthy eating looks like. If it is too early for your dinner time, have a portion of veggies with them while they eat. Let them eat off of your plate — sometimes your food just looks more appealing.” Second, encourage self-regulation. “Instead of encouraging your children to clean their plates, let them listen to their internal hunger and satiety cues — let them decide when they are full,” Rosenfeld said. “When they are hungry, they will eat!” Leon calls this “the division of responsibility in feeding.” She said, “This means it is the parent’s job to provide food, as well as structure with meals and snacks, and it is the child’s job to decide how much of the food they will eat and whether they will eat it… It is important to have nutrient-dense foods from all the food groups available, but it is the child’s job to decide if they will eat them. Kids are notorious for picky eating. Parents often don’t realize that it can take a child 10, 12, 15 times of being exposed to a new food before they accept it. So parents should not give up on offering their child fruits or vegetables, for example.”
Third, involve your kids in cooking and grocery shopping. “Have your kids help you in the kitchen,” Rosenfeld said. “Together, research recipes that they would like to try. Visit a farm or have them grow veggies at home. Research shows that the more involved children are in the food process, the more likely they are to eat healthily.” Fourth, try and try again. “It takes the average person seven tries to acquire a taste for a new food. Children are just like us, but little — they may just enjoy foods prepared in a different way,” Rosenfeld said. “Just because your children hated broccoli once doesn’t mean they won’t like it again. Roasted, steamed or sautéed, there are a variety of ways to prepare healthy foods. I guarantee you’ll find one your child will enjoy.” And fifth, put the veggies right up front. “While sneaking vegetables into a muffin or smoothie can be a fun way to promote healthy eating, make sure to add a side of veggies to your child’s plate too,” Rosenfeld said. “When veggies are visible, kids see that they’re part of every meal, and you get the bonus of additional veggies behind the scenes.” Advises Arpino, parents should “offer one food a child loves, one food they like and one new food at meals to increase the variety and textures of foods” kids eat. Parents should also lead by example, said Dr. Scott Loeser, DDS, of Urgent Care Dental in Scarsdale. And this means not skipping meals. “A lot of people start off the day with just a cup of coffee in the morning,” said Dr. Loeser, citing the “breakfast is the most important meal of the day” mantra. “This is not the best idea for teenage kids.” And when it comes to his area of expertise — tooth health — consuming sugary drinks
MARCH 10, 2017
are a real no-no. “They are the number one cause of tooth decay,” he said. Indeed, parents have the potential to negatively impact their childrens’ eating habits if they are not careful. “Parents who have rigid attitudes about ‘good’ or ‘bad’ foods set children up for a difficult relationship with food,” Leon said. “If a home is too health conscious it can feel deprivational and a child will often seek out the food on their own, and eat lots of it. Also, rigid attitudes about food and worries about the prevention of obesity can backfire and unintentionally lead to disordered eating. If a parent has a general emphasis on appearance and weight control, it can promote eating disordered behaviors.” Going it the complete opposite direction and letting kids eat whatever they want is also not a good choice. “If parents do not set any limits around meals, such as eating haphazardly, not having regular meals and snacks available, a child may also eat haphazardly, having more snacks than meals and crowding out important nutrients,” Leon said. “Parents need to be mindful of their language and messages around food that can unintentionally contribute to poor body image or self-esteem.” Rosenfeld said developing a “healthy relationship with food” is equally as important as developing healthy eating habits. “I encourage people of all ages to develop an appreciation for healthy food as well as special treats,” she said. “Food should be viewed as a form of nourishment that fuels our bodies — rather than ‘good food’ or ‘bad food.’ Instead, look at food in terms of ‘sometimes foods’ and ‘everyday foods.’ If you develop this relationship with food, healthy eating will be sustainable.”
One generation plants the trees; another gets the shade. — Chinese proverb
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MARCH 10, 2017
THE RECORD-REVIEW | PAGE 21A
Parent’s Guide: HOW TOs & WHAT’S NEW Blue Sky Eschool spearheads new way of learning Chinese Want to try something new in the summer? Learn Chinese with Blue Sky Eschool! Blue Sky Eschool, blueskyEschool.com, has designed a summer program just for kids with no Chinese language background: 16 lessons in eight weeks with 1.5 hours for each lesson. Blue Sky Eschool was founded in 2011 and has developed a curriculum accommodating different needs for different groups of students. For non-Chinese speaking students (Chinese as second language, or CSL) at elementary school, it uses “My First Chinese Reader” as the main textbook. For more advanced students or middle and high school students, the “Integrated Chinese” textbook is used. Blue Sky Eschol’s private lessons provide individualized curriculum to assist students for learning Chinese at school using the textbook assigned by their school. As China’s population and economy grow, fluency in Mandarin Chinese becomes an incredibly useful skill. More and more students are starting to take Chinese as a foreign language at school or outside of school. Since Chinese does not have roots in the Romance languages like English and has very special characteristics — for example, written Chinese is completely different from spoken Chinese — learning Chinese is not as natural for English speakers as learning some other foreign languages such as French or Spanish. Thus, frequent exposure to the language and practice play even more important role in learning Chinese than other Romance lan-
guages. Nowadays most students are very busy with school works and extracurricular activities outside of school. How can they add learning Chinese to their workload when it requires more time commitment? Blue Sky Eschool provides the solution by creating online programs for learning Chinese and practicing it. It is online, but with live teachers, unlike other self-study programs that use recorded videos. It eliminates the need for parents to drive their children to class, removing commuting time from both parents’ and kids’ busy schedules.The students take lessons online using a software that specializes in web conference and education. Students communicate with the classmates and teacher instantly via webcams. They can also choose a frequency for lessons based on their own schedule. Blue Sky Eschool has programs offering classes once a week, twice a week or even three times a week if the student’s schedule allows. To guarantee the teaching quality, even group lessons at Blue Sky Eschool are capped at maximum of five students per class, so each student will get individual attention and practice time during class. With this small group setting, the class time is more flexible and accommodating of each student’s individual schedules, too. Unlike some video language learning software and websites, which require the student to be very self-disciplined and motivated, Blue Sky Eschool’s programs provide a classroom setting with the best of both worlds: group lessons that give students peer interaction
An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 23A
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KIDS!
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use an egg timer and tell the child, “When the sand runs out you can find a new toy or give the toy you’re playing with to someone else.” A kitchen timer also works as an impersonal way of saying “time’s up.” Preschoolers are as covetous of other kids’ toys as they are zealous in guarding their own. It’s not uncommon for young children to take a playmate’s toy, hiding it or claiming the other child gave it to them. Rather than accuse a child of lying or stealing, a parent could suggest that the friend may only have meant to lend it and insist that the child offer to bring it back.
Manners Even children as young as 2 can learn basic manners. This includes not only “Please,” “Thank you” and “You’re welcome,” which are easy to teach and model, but also “Hello,” “Goodbye,” “Excuse me” and “I’m sorry.” Children should be taught to respond, with eye contact, when spoken to, not to interrupt, not to call people names or use bad language. Parents should monitor their own language and manners and be willing to apologize when the situation warrants it. Being polite to a child is not a sign of weakness. In some cases, “Sorry” is not enough. If a child has caused serious damage, parents should help him find a way to make amends. If he broke a friend’s toy, you might suggest he give the friend a toy of his own.
Transitions and routines Children love routines. They like to know what to expect and delight in having their expectations met — that’s why they want you to
MARCH 10, 2017
read the same book over and over again. Following routines at home is a great way to prepare your child for the routines of a school day. But transitioning from one activity to another is a major challenge for children who become very involved in play. Getting out the door in the morning can be stressful. Here again, the kitchen timer can be a boon, as can learning to tell time. If children can read numbers on a digital clock, parents can ask them if it’s time to get ready. One school of parenting holds that parents should apply natural consequences whenever possible. Often, the consequences of not doing what one should are too dire to risk. But if there’s an optional outing and a child is balking about getting ready, a parent can explain that if you don’t leave by a certain time it will be too late to go (the museum will close, it will get dark out, etc.) and let the child miss the outing.
Dramatic play Children practice skills, try on different roles and learn to express their feelings primarily by pretending. Dramatic play is a vital activity for children at Elmwood Nursery School. “There’s always a scenario going on,” Arcaya said. The children are building something, playing restaurant, making lunch for a teddy bear. “If you pretend play with your kids at home, you prepare them to play with friends,” she said. “It’s Important for your child to be at ease with other children, follow the flow of sustained play, have relationships, be open to trying new things.” Versatile toys that encourage imagination are best. By the time they’re 5, most of today’s kids are well socialized and ready for all the new adventures that await in kindergarten.
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(NAPS)—Experts say play is an impor tant part of kids’ daily lives, teaching social skills, problem solving and cognitive devel opment. Parents can get expert advice, play tips and ideas based on their children’s ages and developmental stages from the Genius of Play website at www.thegeniusofplay.org. Kids can enjoy fun activities, easyto read stories and beautiful illustrations in Tanille Edwards’ “Jordan & Justine’s Week end Adventures: Wildlife Parts 1 & 2”, while learning about protecting nature. Half the profits go to the Wildlife Alliance. More at www.firefliesentertainment.com, www.wild lifealliance.org, www.jordangogreen.com and (212) 5611654. Parents can teach kids to be upstand ers—not bystanders—about bullying, says Dr. Colleen Logan, program director for the MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling at Walden University, who spe cializes in bullying issues. Learn more at www.WaldenU.edu/bullyprevention. The popular YouTube show for kids “Talking Tom and Friends,” created by mobile leader Outfit7, has been viewed nearly 850 mil lion times. The show is based on the series of apps with 5 BILLION downloads. Check it out at www.youtube.com/user/TalkingFriends. Parents of infants or toddlers should replace corded window coverings with cordless ones certified by the Window Cov ering Safety Council, which has created the Best for Kids program. Learn more at www. windowcoverings.org. Kids need outdoor play to be active, burn up excess energy and have fun, says Joan Law rence, also known as “The Toy Safety Mom.” You can find steps you can take to protect them from injury at www.PlaySafe.org.
To help prevent learning loss when school’s out and fight the achievement gap, the YMCA offers the Power Scholars Acad emy to support K–8 students in literacy, math, enrichment activities in STEM and the arts, along with a health curriculum. Learn more at www.YMCA.net. AbsencesAddUp.org offers parents and community members information on the importance of school attendance and resources to learn how to help children who are struggling in school, being bullied, managing chronic illness or dealing with mental health challenges. Absences Add Up is run by the U.S. Department of Edu cation, the Charles Stewart Mott Founda tion and the Ad Council. The 4H Food Smart Families program provides families with nutrition education, cooking skills and food budgeting skills to bring more affordable, nutritious foods into their households. Moodster Mirror, Meter and Flashlight books and toys can help children 3 to 7 years old learn the importance of feelings and how to manage them. Made by Kids Preferred, they’re available at Target and Target.com. Learn more at www.themood sters.com.
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MARCH 10, 2017
THE RECORD-REVIEW | PAGE 23A
Parent’s Guide: HOW TOs & WHAT’S NEW CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21A
and encouragement so they do not feel as if they are learning alone—even classmates’ talking during the class is still an exercise of the language for the student — and individual practice and one-on-one attention from the teacher assured by the small number of students per class. For a minor extra fee of $75 per semester, parents can upgrade the small group lesson into a semi-private lesson (max of three students per class). Blue Sky Eschool also offers private lessons for students with very packed schedules. Blue Sky Eschool can open a new group class for anyone who can find three students or a new semi-private class with two students. Another benefit of Blue Sky Eschool’s online learning is the low cost. Using the advanced internet technology, Blue Sky Eschool is able to bring good teachers from China at very compettive rate. Small-group lessons are only $325 per semester (16 weeks of classes twice a week, with 1.25 hours per class).
When world is too much: helping sensitive children succeed
CONTINUED ON PAGE 24A
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Alex complains his teacher doesn’t like him and that kids at school talk too loudly. He makes up fanciful stories about aliens while swinging higher and faster on the swings than his older brother. Receiving even gentle criticism can result in explosive tantrums. Alex prefers to be by himself, reading chap-
ter books on ocean life or building Star Wars LEGO sets. His parents feel like they are riding a rollercoaster every day. Alex is getting ready for kindergarten in the fall. Sophia fears having her hair washed at every bath. In order to get into her mother’s car after school, she needs to use her favorite chewy toy and hear the Barney clean up song. Sophia cries during diaper changes. If her teacher is out sick, she can have a meltdown before lunchtime. Her mother wonders if she will ever be able to take her daughter to big family events without a scene. Sophia is currently in a special needs second-grade classroom. Jake has always resisted new foods or games, and is slow to warm up to strangers. He can get carsick while driving to the grocery store. When school begins, Jake complains that the long sleeves of his new clothes “hurt” him. He loves to use his backyard trampoline to relax after school. His mother wonders to herself how he will handle middle school social events while she sneaks pureed vegetables into his favorite comfort foods. Jake is in Little League and takes karate lessons. He attends a typical fifth-grade classroom. What do these children have in common? Their sensitivity makes life much harder for them. Having loving parents isn’t enough to help them overcome their discomfort, anxieties or fears. Alex is a gifted child, routinely overwhelmed by the complex thoughts and intense feelings that his brain generates effortlessly. Sophia has been diagnosed with autism. She has exceptional difficulty with multi-sensory pro-
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MARCH 10, 2017
Record-Review Parent’s Guide: HOW TOs & WHAT’S NEW CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23A
cessing, situations in which she has to concurrently interpret and respond to touch, sound, sight and movement. Jake’s comfort level with most sensory-based experiences is very low, but he is able to handle the demands of school and home life with lots of encouragement and adaptations. Sensitive children are not seeking attention or avoiding responsibility. Telling them to stop their irrational behavior simply doesn’t work. Current researchers theorize that certain forms of sensitivity are based in the brain’s unique structural arrangement and wiring. Although the structure of the brain is permanent, targeted therapeutic experiences and interactions can create new connections and alter a child’s perception and behavior. Regardless of the reason for increased sensitivity, every child can expand their comfort zone when the underlying issues are recognized and they receive effective treatment. Without it, children can interpret comments like, “There’s nothing to cry about,” as a denial of their experience, or worse, as criticism and rejection. Understanding a child’s situation often begins with a structured parent interview and observation of the child’s reactions to everyday events and experiences. There may be specific situations that are priorities for the family, such as sleep or aggressive behavior at school. It is important to look at other issues that can influence behavior, such as ADHD, dermatological or digestive problems and allergies. Parents (and children, based on their level of comprehension) need to learn about the
ways that sensitivity manifests as challenges in daily life. Receiving an explanation for behavior can be enough to shift the family dynamic away from blame and toward engagement. The child’s home and school environment may be arranged to reduce sensitivity. These can be simple changes, such as altering the ambient lighting and sound or different mealtime or morning routines. These minor differences will not inconvenience their peers or family members, but they can make an immediate difference in a child’s behavior. When sensitive children are young, they are still learning how to tolerate limits on their behavior and express their emotions. These skills are important for all children; they are building blocks for self-calming and developing trusting connections to others. Sensitive children may need direct training in social and emotional communication, delivered with more warmth and compassion than typical children require. Choosing the right tone and approach for sensitive children is essential. Failure to take their sensitivity into account can result in a child interpreting instruction as criticism. Finally, children can benefit from therapy that provides targeted play experiences that change a child’s ability to handle input and alter their understanding of themselves in the world. As children reach a cognitive age of approximately 7-8 years old (the gifted child will achieve this level sooner) they will be capable of learning how to manage their sensitivity in daily life without adult intervention. Therapy then becomes more like a coaching experience, with the child as an active partner. Alex knows that if he uses his “rescue breathing” he can calm down when he is
frustrated at school or when plans change without notice. A weighted blanket helps him sleep more deeply. When he becomes upset, he wraps himself in his blanket while reading. His parents realize that Alex needs daily solitude to process his complex thoughts and feelings, so they are no longer worried that he is antisocial or depressed. Sophia’s mother has learned to use both consistent routines and targeted sensory input when she is helping Sophia get dressed and change her diapers. She uses specific activities in the morning to start the day on a positive note. She now brings Sophia to family gatherings early to avoid overwhelming her. Sophia is more calm and focused, which has resulted in faster progress with speech. Her therapists are thrilled. Jake is now able to wear new clothes without a struggle and he can handle short car rides easily. His teachers report that he is enjoying messy art classes. His mother can offer Jake a new food occasionally without a meltdown. Jake has more strategies to calm down without automatically running outside to his trampoline. Intense sensitivity has a positive side as well. Sensitive children may grow up to fight for social justice and they often show immense kindness to their friends or to strangers. The unique challenges they face in childhood aren’t insurmountable obstacles to a happier life. They can become more tolerant of their world and move through it with more enjoyment when they receive the support they deserve. Cathy Collyer, OTR, LMT is a pediatric occupational therapist in private practice. Visit tranquilbabies.com
Summer youth art programs from WCC Westchester Community College Center for the Arts in White Plains announces summer programs for children and teens. Summer class offerings include painting/drawing, jewelry, cartooning, clay sculpture and more. Classes will be offered once a week for six weeks. For teens 15-18, the center will again offer the successful Teen Art Institute, where students hone their artistic skills while building an art portfolio to prepare for college admission. New this summer, Center for the Arts will offer Fashion Camps for ages 8-12. These camps will run Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Aug. 7-11 and Aug. 14-18. This week is all about fashion. Each day will consist of a new theme: styling and accessorizing, visual merchandizing and jewelry making, as well as cosmetic creation and application. Students will learn the basics of fashion photography and document their work. Strike a pose and get ready for your close up. Classes at the Westchester County Center are taught by seasoned art professionals from New York City and Westchester County. Students will learn to express themselves and foster a sense of creativity while constructing art projects with their peers. Classes run from June 26 to July 27. The Teen Art Institute will run in two-week sessions. Discounts are available for those who sign up for multiple classes. Call 606-7500 or email arts@sunywcc edu. Visit www.sunywcc.edu/arts.