Queens Family November 2019

november 2019

newyorkfamily.com

contents

November 2019 NewYorkFamily.com

pg. 10

pg. 30 pg. 20

pg. 22

FEATURES 10 | Special Needs Developmental milestones and when it’s time for early intervention 12 | Special Needs Five things one mom wishes she knew when her child received a special needs diagnosis 22 | The Ultimate Guide to Family Holiday Fun Festive things to do with kids in NYC this season

Stories & columns 4 | Editor’s Note Cue the holiday fun 6 | Mom Hacks: The Best Healthy Snacks The best healthy grab-and-go snacks for the whole family 16 | Ask the Expert Author and nanny Erika Veurik shares on how caregivers and parents can have stronger relationships

Family fun 26 | Calendar Unmissable events in Queens and beyond for November

directory 14 | Special Needs Listings Our picks for Special Needs resources

18 | Family Health What you need to know about the dreaded pink eye 20 | Mom Stories Essay: Rethinking the family photo 30 | We Asked What we are grateful for this Thanksgiving

on the Cover

Photo: Nick Lee | nicklee.com Hair & Makeup: Buffy Hernandez | buffysaintmarie.com Clothing: Rockets of Awesome* | rocketsofawesome.com

*Poppy (second from left) wearing her own t-shirt

November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

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Editor’s Note

NewYorkFamily.com Publisher: Hester Aba Executive Editor: Donna Duarte-Ladd Digital Editor: Katarina Avendaño Senior Adviser: Susan Weiss Director, Business Development: Mary Ann Oklesson Partnership Managers: Erik Bliss, Erin Brof, Mary Cassidy, Shelli Goldberg-Peck Ad Ops Coordinator: Charlotte Sauvagnat Art Director: Leah Mitch Web Developer: Sylvan Migdal Graphic Designers: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti Nina Gallo Photography

Cue the Holiday Fun For this month’s cover, we trekked to Central Park with our kids in tow, climbed up on one of the highest rocks, and had an exhilarating photoshoot with five energetic children.

Afterward, we were exhausted. We learned a lot this day - a) have more coffee on hand for the adults b) kids are more likely to listen to other kids’ parents than their own own, and c) bring better snacks next time. Thankfully we have The Best New Snacks (page 6) in this issue, so you (and the New York Family Team) will have the best treats on hand for the entire family.

For parents wondering if their child is reaching their milestones and what the next step should be if not, check out When it’s time for Early Intervention on (page 10). And if you ever wondered how your relationship with your child’s caregiver could be stronger,

Author and Nanny Erika Veurink shares her thoughts in What a Nanny Wants you to Know (page 16).

Last but certainly not least, New York City is glorious during the holidays. When I was a kid, I would watch holiday movies based in New York, and even on-screen New York twinkled. Our own kids and families who visit NYC at this time of year are in for a treat when they come here. This is why for our November cover, we have The Ultimate Guide to Family Holiday Fun (page 22).

We recommend tearing out this section or heading to newyorkfamily.com to print out the digital version to pop in your handbag or diaper bag this season. We hope you enjoy it!

Graphic Design Intern: Elvia Caballero Editorial Contributor: Mia Salas Editorial Interns: Taryn Schofield, Keana Demming

Contact Information

ADVERTISING: (718) 260-4554 Advertising@NewYorkFamily.com Circulation: (718) 260-8336 Tina@NewYorkFamily.com

Address: New York Family Media/Schneps Media 1 MetroTech Center North, Third Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201

President: Victoria Schneps-Yunis CEO: Joshua Schneps Group Publisher: Clifford Luster

Donna Ladd Executive Editor New York Family has been recognized for editorial and design excellence by PMA. New York Family is published monthly by Queens Family Media, LLC.

get in touch Share your feedback and ideas about family life in the city!

Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily

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Queens Family | November 2019

Reproduction of New York Family Media in whole or part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. ©2019 Queens Family Media, LLC

+DSS\ KHDOWK\ ORYHG These are the dreams we have for our families and friends.

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November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

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MOM HACKS

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The Best Heal�hy Snacks

Some delicious options to keep us going, between busy workdays and after-school activities!

BY KATARINA AVENDAÑO

L

et’s get real! Although having your three daily meals is super important, snacks are what keep us going between finishing a deadline at work or getting the kids to their extracurricular activities. With little time to spare, we need something that is going to do the job in between meals.

If you haven’t already heard about these snacks, we think that it’s time that you put these on your radar and keep your kitchen pantry stocked.

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Queens Family | November 2019

1. LesserEvil Organic Popcorn “No Cheese” Cheesiness Next time you are thinking about popcorn, you have to try LesserEvil’s “No Cheese” Cheesiness. This organic, vegan popcorn makes a great alternative to other cheeseflavored popcorn. Not only is it healthier and a good source of fiber, it has a unique and tasty flavor, with a hint of coconut from the coconut oil that it’s popped in. This snack is a family favorite and a must for the kitchen pantry. Order from their website in cases of five, 12 and 25, or go to lesserevil.com to find a nearby location where you can grab a bag or two.

2. Tortilla Chips Seasoned With Brussels Sprouts, Garlic, Onion & Parsley Kids may wrinkle their noses and say “ewww” when they hear that these tortilla chips are brussels sprout flavored. Well, they are in for a surprise and will be blown away with fantastic flavor. These chips are absolutely delicious, made with white corn and rice flour, potato flakes, and freeze-dried brussels sprouts. They are cut into triangle pieces, baked, and tossed into an array of spices that fully complete the chip — perfect for packing into a lunch for a little crisp treat! Go to traderjoes.com to find a nearby location.

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November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

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Mom hacks

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3. PopCorners Kettle Corn You may have seen these at your grocery stores if you have made your way down the snack aisle. If you have, make sure to grab a bag because these are a snack game-changer.

PopCorners bring corn chips to a whole new level. A personal favorite is their kettle corn flavor that is made with sunflower oil, cane sugar and just a pinch of salt. These crispy snacks are gluten-free, vegan, nut-free and dairy-free. Order from their website in cases of 12 and 40. Alternatively, you can use their store locator at popcorners.com to find a nearby location where you can purchase these snacks.

5. LesserEvil Egg White Curls Huevos Rancheros Who would’ve known that a breakfast favorite could be made into a snack? These paleo puffs are made from American Humane certified egg whites, avocado oil and have a slight kick of spice with each bite.

They make a great option for your snack drawer at work or for your kids’ lunches.

Order a case or find a nearby location at lesserevil.com.

4. Trader Joe’s Sun Dried Apricots Trio Pack This sealed trio pack of Sun Dried Apricots is a great snack to throw in your purse, backpack or really whatever bag. It makes for an easy way to get nutrients and they are also mess-free. You can find this snack within the dried fruits and nuts section at Trader Joe’s. To find your nearby Trader Joe’s, go to traderjoes.com to find a location.

6. Protein Bites Looking for a way to incorporate more protein into your family’s diet? Protein Bites are absolutely perfect for that with a chocolatey, truffle-like bite. These Bites are not only packed with 6 grams of protein, but they are also loaded with great flavor from sunflower seed butter and dairy-free chocolate. Order online or find a store at enjoylifefoods.com.

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Queens Family | November 2019

7. Bare Baked Crunchy Fuji and Reds Now that we are in the fall season, these Bare Baked Crunchy Fuji and Reds make the perfect seasonal snack. You get the sweet apple taste paired with the crisp and crunch of the chip. And parents, the best part about this ingredient list is that it’s just apple — that’s it! They make a great source of fiber and there is no sugar added. See where you can buy these at baresnacks.com.

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Special needS

When It’s Time for Early Intervention Your child’s developmental milestones and what to do if they are not met

By Jean Sheff

A

s soon as your child is born their health and development become your paramount concern. Family and friends are sure to ask if your little one is rolling over, crawling, walking or talking. It’s best not to get pulled into comparing your child’s progress with others, but it’s also important to educate yourself on what the childhood developmental milestones are so you can recognize if your child might need early intervention services.

Milestones defined Vicki Iannotti, M.D., Chappaqua Pediatrics, a division of Boston Children’s Health Physicians, LLP, says there are volumes of material written on children’s developmental milestones, as it is the cornerstone of what pediatricians do for children. “Currently, one in six children in the U.S. has a developmental disability,” Iannotti says. “It is the stance of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) that general pediatricians take a more active role in the evaluation and diagnosis of developmental delays than in the past.”

At birth, pediatricians assess newborn babies through a physical exam. The results, and the newborn’s prenatal history, age of gestation, maternal health, and delivery give an initial picture of the newborn’s development. “There are five streams of development that when typical, occur in an orderly, timed, sequential pattern, affecting each other in a predictable manner,” Iannotti explains. The five streams of development are gross motor, fine motor, language, visualmotor problem solving, and social skills.

See the side bar for specific examples of childhood developmental milestones.

Other tools The AAP recommends the use of a formal questionnaire, “Ages and Stages,” to assess development in each of the five areas at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, 18 months, 24 months, 30 months, 36 months, 48 months, and 60 months of age. “The questionnaire is completed by the child’s parents, as they know their child best. It identifies strengths and any areas of

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Queens Family | November 2019

Developmental Milestone Examples

Vicki Iannoti, M.D. describes Gross Motor Milestone Development across a child’s first 15 months and Language Milestone Development in a child’s first 3 years.

Gross Motor Milestone Development • 1 month old: can lift their head off the table when lying prone • 2 months old: can lift their head and chest off the table when lying in the prone position • 3 months old: can lift head and upper chest up to elbows bearing weight on their forearm • 4 months old: can lift themselves up to support weight of upper body on wrists and can roll from prone to supine • 5 months old: can roll from supine to prone (back to front) and can sit up with support • 6 months old: can sit up without support • 9 months old: pulls himself up to stand and cruises along furniture • 12 months old: taking steps unassisted • 15 months old: child is running.

Language Milestone Development • 1 month old: alerts to sound

potential concern to monitor,” Iannotti says.

In addition, Iannotti says, at wellchild visits pediatricians use the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT), a validated developmental screening tool for toddlers between 16 and 30 months of age.

It is designed to identify children who may benefit from further evaluation.

When to be concerned Parents should be concerned when their child’s development in any area is not made over one to three months of the expected time frame, or if development regresses.

“If a child has a delay of six months or more in meeting milestones in one or more

• • • • • •

•

•

•

•

•

•

2 months old: social smile 3 months old: coos 4 months old: laughs 6 months old: babbles 8 months old: says “dada” and/or “mama” non-specifically 10 months old: understands “No”, says “mama” and “dada” specifically 12 months old: follows one-step commands with a gesture, twoword vocabulary 18 months old: points to one picture, identifies greater than two body parts, has a seven- to 10-word vocabulary 21 months old: points to two pictures, 20-word vocabulary, twoword sentences 24 months old: follows two-step commands, 50-word vocabulary, two-word sentences 30 months old: understands the concept of “I”, points to seven pictures, uses pronouns 36 months old: follows two-step commands, 250-word vocabulary, uses three-word sentences.

areas of development, it is significant and should be evaluated further,” Iannotti says.

Evaluation can include medical genetics, pediatric specialists including neurology and developmental pediatrics, ENT, and/or audiology to name a few.

Iannotti says if parents are concerned they should schedule an appointment with their pediatrician to initiate an evaluation.

“They should not wait until a scheduled wellcare visit,” she advises.

The importance of early intervention The good news is many developmental delays can be positively addressed. “Evaluating de-

velopmental delays, determining a diagnosis, and establishing a treatment plan usually involves specialists in neurodevelopmental pediatrics, physiatry, and a therapeutic team of specialists and educators who provide the necessary interventions over a period of months to years,” Iannotti says.

Keep in mind that from infancy to age 3, your child can receive help through early intervention services. The Individuals with Disabilities Act, a federal law, requires states to provide early intervention. You can request a free evaluation from your state’s early intervention service program. If your child qualifies, services may be provided to your child at no cost. A team of educators will develop an Individualized Family Service

Plan for your child.

The evidence for early intervention (EI) is irrefutable, Iannotti says. EI programs support parent-child interactions, provide parental education on child development, reduce parental stress and guide parents to become strong advocates for their children.

“Neurocognitive research has shown that there are optimal periods of brain development, more recently termed “sensitive periods,” during which learning is most efficient and almost critical to future success,” Iannotti says. Intervention during these early, sensitive periods of development can maximize the child’s functional potential and further minimize the secondary behavioral, social, and emotional problems that often stem from

developmental delays that are not addressed until school age.

In short, EI and targeted therapy has proven to be of tremendous value.

What can parents do to help their baby reach their milestones? “Parents provide the nurturing environment that facilitates brain development, feelings of security and stability to promote emotional well-being,” Iannotti says. “Reading, talking, singing, playing on the floor, supporting motor development through playful situations, and teaching through experiences has immeasurable benefit to the developing infant and child.”

Jean Sheff is co-publisher and editor of Westchester Family.

November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

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special needs

5 Things I Wish I Knew When We Received a Special Needs Diagnosis

By Gena Mann

“P

DD NOS,” said the developmental pediatrician to my husband and me that summer day in our Upper Eastside apartment. With those six letters — which are so meaningless, nobody even uses that term anymore — she changed the entire course of our lives. At the time, I felt shattered. We finally had an answer to why our beautiful brown-eyed, 2-year-old boy would run in circles, page through the same board books over and over again, and had zero interest in interacting with other children. The answer felt like all of the dreams we had for his future — sports, prom, and college evaporated with this diagnosis. This was 15 years ago. At the time, I knew not one fellow parent who had a child with autism. I knew nothing about interventions and therapies and diets.

I allowed myself about a day to hide and cry and feel sorry for myself. The next morning I woke up and started the research. Research that was not at the level it is now. It was the early days of Google. I didn’t know which search words to Google.

I found a friend who put me in touch with another NYC mother whose child had been diagnosed the year prior. She patiently sat on the phone with me, suggesting the agencies and therapists I needed to contact.

Through this one mom, I was able to connect with a support group where I learned from their hard lessons. I found helpful advice and resources to help my son. This new community gave me a jump start in helping me to learn how to navigate this new world of being a Special Needs Mom. My second son was diagnosed five years later at the very other end of the spectrum: verbal, social, some would say “high functioning,” but with a host of other challenges. As I write this, with the benefit of 15 years of experience raising not one, but two children on the spectrum, I wish I could tell my 31-year-old self so many things.

If you are reading this and are facing a recent diagnosis of any kind of developmental difference for your child, I can tell you the

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Queens Family | November 2019

top 5 things I wish I knew when I heard those six letters.

1. The child that developmental pediatrician was talking about was still the same delicious, loved, the spectacular child he was before she added those six letters after his name. My husband expressed this wisdom that very same day.

He will still have a beautiful life, he will make a difference, he is still our boy. This has all proven to be true.

2. You cannot try every single intervention that exists. Well, you can, but you will be bankrupt and likely no further along than if you hadn’t. Do research.

Different interventions are better for different kinds of kids — so, at least some stuff that is evidence-based and widely known. And then try some stuff (therapies/supplements/ experimental treatments/healers, etc.) here and there that “speak” to you. Try one new thing at a time so you can really see what is helping.

3. Celebrate and nurture your child’s strengths. They may be wildly different than you thought they would be. My son used to make incredible art using candy on my bathroom floor. He was happy and calm when he did it, so we bought bags of candy and let him set it up on our bathroom floor!

He has since moved on to other types of artistic endeavors working with his hands.

You never know where it will go.

4. Set your child and your family up for success. Try to resist the urge to do all of the “kid” activities your friends are doing with their kids. I used to insist on going apple picking every fall because it is a standard autumn family activity where we live. It was a sensory overstimulation nightmare for my kids, and we sweated and struggled every time we went when they were little. I eventually found activities that were more

appropriate for my kids (a special needs gymnastics class, therapeutic horseback riding, swimming), and these have been amazing and way less stressful.

5. Fight your city/town/school district for everything your child is entitled to. My personality is someone who never ruffles feathers. But when it comes to my kids and what they need academically and socially and emotionally to thrive, I am unstoppable.

I know the law (and surround myself with people who know it better-advocate, lawyer) and I will not stop until they have everything.

Gena Mann is an experienced Photo Editor from New York City working for brands such as Elle, O, The Oprah Magazine, and CosmoGIRL! She left magazines shortly after her second son was born and her first child was diagnosed with autism at 2-years-old. Gena knows first hand how lonely, terrifying, and costly it is to navigate everything that comes with having children with special needs—and the special needs moms around the world she connected with on Instagram felt exactly the same way. Together, Carissa and Gena decided the best way to support special needs moms was to create a modern lifestyle app that would help special needs moms make meaningful connections in their neighborhoods and find resources they could trust. The Wolf + Friends app is what I wish I had when my son was first diagnosed with autism.

HUNTINGTON Offering Clinic and Home Based Services for Behavioral (ABA) and Speech Therapy We are centrally located in Forest Hills, Queens and we also provide home based services throughout the 5 boroughs, Long Island, Hudson Valley and the Capital District.

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©2019 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. *Offer valid for Academic Evaluation, new students only. Not valid with any other offer. SAT is a registered trademark of College Board. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. None of these entities endorses or was involved in the production of the program.

STEPPINGSTONE DAY SCHOOL, INC. A Preschool Program for Children With and Without Disabilities Not for Profit — Established in 1983

Queens/Bronx Preschool Programs ‑ CPSE Evaluations Speech/Language, Occupational, Physical Therapy & Counseling Services Family Support Services • Preschool self-contained and integrated classrooms; Pre-K for All • Nurturing, child-friendly learning environments • Ongoing communication between parents and professionals • Meeting the needs of the families through concrete and social work services

To find out more about SteppingStone Day School For the Queens Location, call Nancy Rybacki 718-591-9093 • For the Bronx location, call Sheri Bushansky 718-554-2025 SteppingStone Day School’s Preschool Program is Funded and Regulated By The New York State Department of Education, The New York City Department of Education and Licensed by The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Bureau of Daycare

November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

13

special needs Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

Advantage Care Health Centers and The Fay J. Lindner Center for Autism Long Island – Nassau County 189 Wheatley Rd., Brookville, NY 230 Hanse Ave.,Freeport, NY 516-686-4400 advantagecaredtc.org Meet Long Island’s premier federally qualified health centers. They participate in Medicaid, Medicaid Managed Care Plans, and Medicare. They also accept most insurance plans. The mission of these Centers is to provide the highest quality comprehensive primary, dental, mental and behavioral health care services. They offer these services to all members of the community with a commitment to those who might otherwise be excluded from the health care system, while still remaining cost-effective and efficient. The health center specializes in providing services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Their vision is to provide compassionate, efficient and accessible community-based health care services.

Achieve Beyond Pediatric Therapy & Autism Services Services available in all five boroughs and Long Island 718-762-7633 631-385-7780 info@achievebeyondusa.com achievebeyondusa.com Achieve Beyond believes that early intervention services make a difference and provide pediatric therapy to children and students ages infant-21, aiding each child to reach their full potential through education, therapy, and family support in over 30 different languages. They offer initial screenings, parent or school consultations and comprehensive evaluations.

Their professional and

licensed staff is committed to serving special needs children with physical and developmental disabilities/ delays. Services are provided in home, clinic, or community environments. They offer speech and language therapy, occupational and physical therapy, special education and more.

Direct Behavioral Services New York City areas and New Jersey 347-559-6131 directbehavioralservices@ gmail.com Direct Behavioral Services (DBS) offers insurance funded Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) home services in New York City areas and New Jersey. They are a private group of board certified behavior analysts (BCBA)/ licensed behavior analysts and registered behavior technicians who work collaboratively in improving the lives of children and adults with autism by providing individualized high quality programming at the individual’s home and community. They work on academic and social skills, daily living skills, fine and gross motor skills, to name a few. They accept most health insurances, and they advocate on behalf of clients with insurance companies.

For more information, call 347-559-6131 or send an email to directbehavioralservices@ gmail.com.

Family Speech Center Several locations in Astoria and Flushing 718-939-0306 familyspeechcenter.com familyspeechcenter@verizon. net Their certified speechlanguage pathologists are trained professionals who evaluate and diagnose adults and children to identify

We’re so Social 14

Queens Family | November 2019

specific speech, language or swallowing difficulties.

Services include speechlanguage evaluations and treatment for individuals with articulation and stuttering problems. Assessment procedures depend on the age of the client; very small children are assessed in an informal play-based environment. Medical plans and Dept. of Ed IEPs are accepted for both preschool and school age children.

Operated by Niki StagiasCoulianidis, MA, CCC-SLP and Errika Nathenas-Dimitrakis, MS, CCC-SLP, speech language pathologists.

The Huntington Learning Center Locations throughout Westchester County, Rockland County, Long Island, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and Manhattan. huntingtonhelps.com 1-800 CAN LEARN Huntington is the leader in K-12 tutoring and test prep.

They help students at all levels achieve results. Their certified tutors provide individualized instruction in reading, phonics, writing, study skills, math, executive functioning, ADHD, dyslexia, and learning disabilities. They also help students prep for the SAT/ ACT, state and standardized exams, including Regents.

Huntington also testifies on student’s behalf, attends IEP or 504 meetings, and makes school visits. Founded in 1977, Huntington’s mission is to give every student the best education possible.

SteppingStone Day School, Inc. 7740 Vleigh Pl., Flushing, NY 718-591-9093 steppingstonedayschool.com Established in 1983, as a private, not for profit, infant and preschool program for children with/without special

needs for children ages 3-5.

Their mission is to provide collaborative evaluation, education, therapy, and family support services so children can develop to their full potential and become members of the community.

They are able to provide services to children with varying degrees and severity of disability. They’ve been in the forefront in providing integrated classrooms since the early 1990’s. Licensed/ certified special educators, therapists, social workers, and psychologists are part of a multidisciplinary team dedicated to their philosophy that all children are entitled to an education that is safe, nurturing and in an enriched environment. They are fully licensed.

Long Island Center for Speech Locations across Suffolk and Nassau Counties 1-844-5-SPEECH lispeech.com Specializing in the treatment and correction of language disorders, memory and auditory processing difficulties, fluency, voice disorders, motor planning disorders, deviate swallowing, tongue thrust, feeding problems/aversions, thumb sucking, articulation disorders and oral facial muscle weakness. Janine Stein, speech-language pathologist, is the owner and operator of the Suffolk Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy.

Along with her exceptional group of therapists, she supports families and children across Long Island and Queens. There are seven affiliated offices across Long Island, all participating with most major health insurance companies and offering flexible hours and scheduling, including evenings and Saturdays.

Follow us @newyorkfamily on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter and tag us #newyorkfamily in your NYC adventures!

FAMILY SPEECH CENTER EVALUATION & TREATMENT

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provides customized ABA services and social groups (funded by your health insurance) to children and adults with autism in Manhattan, NYC areas & NJ. No waiting list.

We work on social skills, language, play skills, self-help skills and academic skills at home, school and community. Supervised by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).

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516-686-4400 Advantage Care Health Centers are state of the art centers that provide people with access to the following high quality health services: • Primary and Preventive Medical Care for children and adults • Comprehensive Dental Care for children and adults • Psychiatry • Psychotherapy • Psychological Assessments • Women’s Health • Podiatry Specializing in providing services to children and adults with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families and the general public.

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www.advantagecaredtc.org November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

15

ask the expert

What a Nanny Wants You to Know How to build a stronger understanding and communication between caregiver and parent

By Erika VEurink

F

inding a good family to nanny feels like winning the lottery, that is, if the lottery is sustainable employment rooted in mutual respect and open communication. After years of “ok” nannying experiences that seemed to blur together, I’ve recently celebrated a year with a family I feel lucky to work for.

My connection to the boys has been crucial to the success of the whole endeavour. Their parents’ support of my pursuits within the role and outside of it have been, too. Beyond that, there are a few things that have made this experience not only lovelier, but more worthwhile, than the rest.

It all started last August, after a few frantic months of working as an office coordinator for a fashion label. I was burnt out, fresh out of undergrad, and in desperate need of some time to sort what was next.

I thought back to work experiences I had enjoyed in the past. Babysitting came to mind almost immediately. I logged back into my online nannying profile, updated my profile picture, and hoped for the best.

After sorting through a sea of cryptic postings, I came across a simple request for an after-school sitter for two boys. I applied.

My future employer responded. We talked on the phone briefly. I went over to the apartment to meet the family that weekend.

First impressions This wasn’t my first Nannying in New York Rodeo, not by a long shot. Over the years, I’ve been a babysitter in virtually every neighborhood. The best experiences always involve being introduced by the parents to the children upon first meeting. It sounds simple, but there have been a few occasions where I’ve had to request an introduction before showing up at hopefully the right door step in order to be greeted by what I assume to be the right child.

These first meetings are much like first dates — a bit awkward, usually ok in the end, but imperative for determining if there’s any chemistry. I’ve been on a few first meetings that resulted in a polite decline of moving forward, and thank goodness. Once, I walked into a cluttered, cat hair coated basement

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apartment, only to be abandoned with a 2-year-old while the mother took a work call.

Another time, I leaned on a stack of books I’d set up as a prop for a Facetime introduction that promptly toppled onto the floor.

When I met the family I babysit for now, I felt instantly at ease in their sunny apartment. The boys and I connected over their latest Lego creations. The parents were calm, kind, and attentive. There’s something to be said for gut reactions, especially when it’s work as personal as caregiving.

Talk about timeline After an excellent first meeting, I was thrilled to receive an offer from my employers.

Thanks to a comfortable and candid conversation during our first meeting, I felt confident moving forward. I knew what hours would be kept, how compensation would work, and even what to expect for sick day procedure. Taking the time to sort this all out before I even began gave me a sense of assurance and made me feel prepared.

It doesn’t necessarily have to be formal, but both parties benefit from honesty, especially when it comes to future plans.

No one wants to be stranded without support. In my current position, a formal contract outlined expectations plainly. I apprehensively mentioned graduate school as soon as I started applying last fall.

My employers met my nervousness with generosity and encouragement, reaffirming the truth that discussing early and often fosters the healthiest lines of communication.

When I was accepted to my first choice low residency program, I couldn’t wait to share the news.

Communication is key Channels of communication are just as important as the act of corresponding. I’ve worked for families that expected constant text messages while I was with the children.

One mother asked for a photograph of her child every hour, on the hour. There are only so many smiling in the swing photos one can take, come hour three in the park.

Another parent insisted on leaving written summaries in a notebook before I went home. “Normal day. Made pasta for dinner.

Listened to Hamilton soundtrack. Was beat at chess, again.” The journal entries stunted the natural flow of conversation, plus served as a constant reminder of my lack of improvement in chess.

Now, I check in when my employer arrives home, usually debriefing on the day, catching up, etc. We email when I’m not with the boys and when I am, short texts or phone calls are exchanged. I love sending her snapshots of our days and even made a short film of favorite moments as part of a holiday gift. It feels empowering to be trusted and at the same time, know that both parents are accessible. There’s always a communication learning curve, in any relationship. But being able to speak to what feels most productive out of the gate can help to avoid missed memos or a general sense of overwhelming aloneness.

Teamwork makes the dream work And nothing is worse, as a nanny, than feeling alone. Once, during a particularly spirited after-school argument with his sister, a child I was babysitting locked himself in the bathroom. I scoured cabinets for ingredients, resorting to homemade pancakes for dinner with pantry staples. The boy burst into the kitchen a minute later to alert me the tub was overflowing. The sister called from her bedroom at the exact moment informing me that the dog had peed on her rug. Neither of the parents could be reached and after an emergency group outing to the bodega for cleaning supplies and pizza, I collapsed on the velvet settee, until I remembered we were late for dance.

Understanding my role as a nanny in the web of support that keeps the boys’ lives running smoothly not only takes the pressure off of the work, but also helps keep everything in balance. On any given day, I nod at the familiar ferry coordinator, greet the doorman, and smile at the neighbors next door. When family visits from out of town, I feel excited to catch up and thrilled for the extra attention for the boys. By introducing me to family members and family friends, my employers helped me to feel bolstered and supported — a veritable part of the family’s circle.

Build routines We take the stairs down to the scooters, snap on helmets, and race off to the ferry that always seems to beat us to the pier. We settle into our specific row, unpack snacks, and start a story, usually about a bad guy named Jason and always featuring a chase scene. We arrive home, unpack backpacks, and I start dinner.

It took us about a month of trial and error to define this series of moments that set us up for a blissfully uneventful afternoon. And even on the days when we have an activity or engagement, the boys like to ask what we would normally be doing at that time. “We’d be waiting for the ferry,” or “We’d be running a bath,” serve as metrics for our time together.

In the past, lack of routine made it hard on everyone involved. Loads of last minute messages being exchanged with the parent could distract from the essential after school debrief on the walk home. Or interrupting a project could make moving to the next activity nearly impossible. Now, something as simple as choosing a recipe on Tuesday, shopping for ingredients on Wednesday, and baking on Thursday has become our tried and true rhythm.

Plan ahead Some nights, the boys crack open the window and yell adorably indiscernible farewells from three flights up. Other nights, we race around

the hallway. However we say goodnight, my employers are always acutely aware of my departing on time. It’s a simple gesture that speaks volumes to their respect for my life outside of babysitting.

Holidays when the boys are off school are discussed weeks in advance. Vacation time is always discussed months before. The more planning becomes customary, the easier it is to express flexibility when events come up.

When I’m away at school or on holiday, I find myself missing the structure and delight of my time with the boys. I get back to the book I’m reading or the train I’m racing to catch, but not without gratitude for the work I love and the family that makes it possible.

November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

17

family health

Keep an Eye Out for Conjunctivitis Pink eye can spread fast, here is what you need to know about this viral infection

By Pramod Narula, m.d.

We are only a few months into the school year and already two of my daughter’s classmates have pink eye! Can you tell me more about the infection, how it is spread, and ways to make sure my children aren’t infected?

P

ink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane that lines the eyelid and part of the eyeball. This membrane, known as the conjunctiva, is usually clear.

However, if irritation or infection occurs, it can become red, swollen, and uncomfortable.

The cause of pink eye is commonly a viral or bacterial infection or an allergic reaction. Allergic conjunctivitis is usually a reaction to irritants such as animals, pollen, chemicals such as the chlorine found in pools, and cigarette smoke. Though the pink, itchy eyes are indeed uncomfortable, allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious, and the symptoms will fade once the irritant is removed.

Most cases of conjunctivitis are caused by viral infections. However, both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are very contagious, which is why early diagnosis and treatment is the best way to limit its spread.

Pink eye may develop and show symptoms in one or both eyes. The most common symptoms include redness, itchiness, a gritty feeling, discharge that forms a crust during the night, and/or tearing. In the case of conjunctivitis caused by a virus, there is no simple “cure” – the infection simply must run its course while the body fights it off.

The good news is, a case of viral conjunctivitis typically goes away in seven to 10 days, and children can usually return to school in three to five days. While those days can be very uncomfortable, nonprescription remedies such as warm or cold compresses can help to alleviate some of those symptoms. Unlike pink eye due to a viral infection, pink eye that is caused by

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bacteria can be treated by antibiotics, and the child can return to school 24 hours after an antibiotic has been started, provided that symptoms have improved.

The best way to avoid the discomfort of pink eye is to prevent the infection from occurring at all. Practicing good hygiene is the best way to control its spread. Make sure that that hand washing is frequent as her fingers will no doubt be near her eyes several times a day. Although hand-to-eye contact is the most common mode of transmission, objects such as make-up applicators or other

instruments that touch the eye area can also carry conjunctivitis from one eye to the other.

There’s no need to panic; pink eye is a minor eye infection, but left untreated, it can develop into a more severe condition. If you suspect your child has pink eye, take her to the pediatrician as soon as possible, for her sake and for her classmates’ as well.

Pramod Narula, M.D. is the Chairman of the Department of Pediatrics at NewYorkPresbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital.

Em

g

’s Tutori a n m

• Taught Grades Pre-K – 5 • 10 Years Teaching • General Education and Special Needs • Specializes in Math and ELA

We Work Through Mistakes

• Master’s Degree • Establishing Good Rapport with Students is Important • Safe Learning Environment

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November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

19

mom stories

Rethinking the

FAMILy PHoTo When it comes to capturing what makes your family special, let’s all go after the truth

By Veronica rogers

IN THE REAL IS THE BEAUTIFUL. IN –Yan Plamer THE TRUTH IS MAGIC.

I

n the real is the beautiful. I read that line over and over again as I sat completely enamored with the photography on this photographer’s blog. Her images felt different.

The images Yan Palmer took showed life in a way I had never seen — and I’ve seen a lot of photography. You see, I am a Creative Director and Prop Stylist by trade, which means I spend a lot of time crafting really pretty images. Images, that if I’m being totally honest, aren’t real at all. Take, for example, a crème blush makeup ad I did recently. To create the image we use the actual blush, plus we added in a little paint and some glycerin to achieve the perfect texture. The final images look like beautifully creamy makeup that you would definitely want to buy. But real? Yes — sort of, but with a few tweaks, of course.

We live in a time where “real — sort of” has become the air we breathe. We talk often about loving authenticity and “keeping it real” on social media. But the “real” we see is often a filtered reality, similar to the makeup ads I style.

This year, as another summer came to an end, I was faced with the annual question of “are we going to do family photos… again?” I am the mom to two beautiful girls, now 4 and 6 years old, and the wife of an incredibly supportive and wonderful man.

As someone who creates photos for a living, it was surprising to my husband that my desire to take family photos had waned over the last few years. The thought of enduring the high stress experience had felt like too much for me at times. It always began with making a mental list of all the things I needed to make it happen: a perfect fall day with the right amount of brightly colored leaves on the ground, cute outfits for our family that all coordinate, and if we were getting really

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Queens Family | November 2019

i want to feel at ease in my space, play with my kids, and allow the photographer to capture the real moments we had with one another. into it (which I always did) pumpkins and a flannel blanket for us to sit on — to really play up the fall vibes. Next, I would begin to make a mental list of all the ways I could bribe my children to get them to stay still as they were corralled into a line, told what to wear, fidgeted with, and told to smile — really smile — no less than twenty times. My goal for our family photoshoots was to get it done before our summer glow faded into a depressed winter pale — that way, if we used the photo as our annual Christmas card, it would elicit the desired “Wow! They’re thriving!” reaction from friends and family.

The art of styling consists of staying on top of all the tiny little details to design imagery that tells a story in creative and unique ways. It is a job that requires a certain level of perfectionism — so it is no wonder when it came time to take our family photo, the perfectionism would take over and tell me that this, too, was my opportunity to create another perfectly styled photo. Perfect outfit, perfect background, perfect smiles, and perfectly behaved kids equals a perfect photo. So simple, right? The reality would look more like a stressed out mom telling her

family what to wear, how to behave, to sit still and smile, and to listen to the photographer “or else,” totally unsure of where the “or else” would lead. Funny how much easier it is to control paint and glycerin than your own kids.

As I looked at the alluringly raw photos Yan Palmer had taken of families within their own homes, I realized that these are the moments I want to remember. I want to remember what my home looked like at this very point in time. I want to remember what stuffed animals my 4-year-old was playing with and what her bedroom looked like.

I want to remember the things we would do together around the house. I don’t need another picture of the four of us smiling at the camera. I want to feel at ease in my space, play with my kids, and allow the photographer to capture the real moments we had with one another as we just spent time together as a family. That kind of photoshoot excited me.

One of my best friends, Megan Haughery, is a talented family photographer. She was the one who first introduced me to Yan’s work.

She and I sat on my blue Formica countertops having long talks together about the idea of shifting family photography from controlled and posed to a more freeform depiction of reality within the family. She suggested the idea that she could shoot my family in our house this year. Do something different. As I looked around at my little rancher house, still a far cry away from the hopes of a big renovation, I hesitated at the idea. It seemed like a great idea in theory, but capturing my little family in our home felt vulnerable and out of control. But I wanted to take a step to shift my own thinking, so I agreed.

Leading up to the shoot, the stylist in me wanted to change everything. Put a blanket here, a plant there. I wanted to change my curtains — just for the shoot — so the yellow wouldn’t be so “loud.” I was tempted to go prop shopping as I normally do for all my

Megan Haughery of The Penny Gray Photography Co

Megan Haughery of The Penny Gray Photography Co

photoshoots. I had to keep reminding myself that there is beauty in the unfinished and the goal would be to remember my family and my life as they truly are.

The day came, and it was the opposite experience of what I was used to when it came to the family photo experience. We were all relaxed, barefoot, and hanging out. I wore a dress because I wanted to feel flowy and free,

and my kids wore what they normally wear — my oldest always chooses the dress, and my youngest is always in some sort of cozy romper. We turned on the music, pulled out the books and paints, and laughed and played together with ease. There was no rush, there were no forced smiles. It helped that we all knew our photographer well, so there was no fear with her around. It was a good day. Not

all days are good days, and I hope to capture a not-so-great day, too — so we can remember that even when it was bad, it was good.

When it comes to family photography, many of us have fallen into thinking that the stressed out family shoot is all there is. The goal of eliciting the “look how great they’re doing!” on the annual Christmas card has blinded us from what our hearts will long to look back on 20 years from now — and that is to remember the real moments in that one fleeting period of time in our life.

When it comes to family photos, let’s all go after the truth. Let’s take that step of vulnerability and invite a photographer into our home to capture our family doing the things we love to do together. If a meltdown happens, let it happen. I promise that when you look back on those tears, you will be brought back to that very moment in time, with all its ups and downs, and it will feel perfect. We no longer need to create a filtered sublimity of our lives because the reality is that our lives are beautiful because we are human, we are alive, and we are connected.

We feel love, we feel frustration, and we go through challenges. That is the human experience. Let’s begin to capture what it really looks like and continue to remind each other and ourselves that in the real is the beautiful.

November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

21

The Ultimate Guide to

Terrific things to do with kids in NYC this season

By Mia Salas

T

here are so many ways to get into the holiday spirit in New York City. We’ve got the classics, like watching the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular and ice skating at Rockefeller Center, but we’ve also mixed in some less well-known ideas for holiday fun, such as the NYCRUNS Cocoa Classic 5K & 10K and holiday-themed storytimes at bookstores and libraries. Make the most of the holiday season before it’s over with our Ultimate Guide to Family Holiday Fun!

Manhattan What better way to get into the holiday spirit than with ice skating? Bryant Park has an ice rink in the Bank of America Winter Village with free admission, and the rink at Rockefeller Center is always a winter classic.

Wollman Rink in Central Park is another great option, especially with the picturesque Central Park views surrounding you as you skate.

Make your kids’ dreams come true by bringing them to meet Santa Claus! There are many places to meet and greet Santa throughout the city. The best free or low cost options to see Santa are at ABC Carpet & Home in Union Square, Santa in Central Park, Macy’s Herald Square and Santa’s Corner at Bryant Park’s Winter

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Queens Family | November 2019

Village. Be sure to bring your best camera to take adorable photos of your little ones with Santa Claus!

Catch the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular!

Whether you’ve seen the show every year or have never seen it before, the Rockettes always dazzle their audience of toddlers, kids, teens, and adults. Ticket prices start at $25 and vary depending on the day and seat.

Your Christmas tree may be great, but there’s nothing like the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center. This enormous tree, with its multicolored lights, provides the perfect backdrop for photos, which may even make it into your holiday cards! The Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on December 4, 8-10pm, when the tree will be lit for the first time this year.

Don’t miss out on New York’s largest holiday festival, Winter’s Eve at Lincoln Square on December 2, 5:30-9pm! Enjoy live entertainment by world-class performance groups, food tastings, including hot soups, drinks, and desserts from the Upper West Side’s top local kitchens, and the iconic tree lighting ceremony. Winter’s Eve also features plenty of kidfriendly activities, music, and holiday crafts.

Head to Central Park Holiday Lighting on December 5, 5:30-6:30pm at the Charles A. Dana Discovery

Nick Lee

November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

23

Center! Meet Santa Claus, sing carols on the Plaza, and enjoy delicious hot chocolate and cookies. Then watch the lighting of several trees on Harlem Meer to kick off the holiday season!

Looking to celebrate or learn more about Kwanzaa?

Head to the American Museum of Natural History this December to experience one of the country’s largest Kwanzaa celebrations! There will be live performances, film screenings, a local artisan marketplace, and fun giveaways. Your whole family is invited to learn about African-American heritage and the cultural and artistic legacy of the African-American community.

Spend the day at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan to take part in a variety of holiday-themed activities.

Build your own Christmas tree, paint a mug for your hot cocoa, create a gigantic marshmallow sculpture, explore snow that never melts, design your own gingerbread puppet, listen to the Nutcracker storytime, make your own holiday cards, and ring in the new year at the kidfriendly New Year’s Eve Ball Drop & Dance Party!

Visit the Grand Holiday Bazaar for the ultimate holiday gift shopping. There will be over 150 handpicked, independent local artisans and dealers. Choose from candles, jewelry, chocolates, decorations, and so much more. This is a great place to buy unique gifts for your kids, and kids get a kick out of shopping for gifts here as well. Opening day is November 24, and then the Bazaar will be open on December 1, 8, 15, and 22.

The holidays aren’t all about Christmas — they also include Hanukkah! On December 15, 11am-4pm, make your way over to the Jewish Museum to celebrate. Build a sculptural Hanukkah lamp, dance to Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights, sketch Hanukkah lamps from around the globe on a gallery tour, and watch a Haukkah story come to life through a drawing performance. Hanukkah Family Day is included with museum admission.

Always a spectacle for kids and adults of all ages, the New York Transit Museum brings back their Holiday Train Show for its 17th year at the Museum’s Grand Central Gallery Annex & Store! Set against a backdrop designed by artist Ebony Bolt, the trains travel around a 34-inch long, two-level track. Your little ones will definitely get a kick out of watching the trains in action.

Brooklyn Bring the kids to the beautiful Kings Theatre at 1027 Flatbush Avenue to watch the beloved classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer live December 1st at 1 pm and 4:30 pm. Also, with Rudolph, you’ll see favorite characters from the beloved tv special such as Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, and more! The performance runs 90 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission.

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Queens Family | November 2019

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights are back again this year for another magical display of Christmas! This well-loved and well-known NYC holiday display features life-size Santas, sleighs, snowmen, Christmas carols, and, of course, lots of lights. There’s an ongoing competition among neighbors in the area to create the best, most extravagant holiday display, which makes for a collection of spectacular sights.

The Brooklyn Children’s Museum has everything you need to celebrate Kwanzaa with your family! As the 11th Annual Celebrate Kwanzaa!, on December 26-31, this is the largest family Kwanzaa event in NYC. Explore Kwanzaa’s seven principles, learn about the history of Kwanzaa, and embark on a fun exploration of culture and heritage through arts and crafts, activities, and discussions.

It wouldn’t be the holiday season without a trip to Prospect Park to join in on the holiday-themed programming. There’s a Family Christmas Bird Count at the Audubon Center on December 15, 10am-1pm, and Winter Recess from December 26-30, which features games, nature explorations, DIY discovery packs, animal encounters, and more. Watch the New Years Eve fireworks on December 31 and January 1, and then prepare for Winter Zoo Wonderland. On weekends in December and January, learn about which animals love the cold temperatures and post your “Zoo Year” resolutions on the wall.

Celebrate Hanukkah with Brooklyn’s Largest Menorah in Grand Army Plaza. There will be a live kickoff concert on the first night of Hanukkah, and then stop by the menorah every day of Hanukkah to watch the next candle get lit. Kids will also receive small gifts, and everyone can enjoy hot latkes and live music. Lighting times are as follows: 4pm on the first night (December 22), 6pm on the second through fifth nights, 3:30pm on the sixth night, 7pm on the seventh night, and 5:30pm on the eighth night.

Another amazing (and might we add, delicious!)

Hanukkah celebration is The 11th Annual Latke Festival on December 16, 6-8:30pm at the Brooklyn Museum. Restaurants such as Jacob’s Pickles NYC, Brings Jam & Marmalade, bricolage, Benchmark Restaurant, Baoburg Brooklyn, and many more will come together to make delectable latkes, and you get to help the judges decide the winner. Enjoy the best and most creative potato pancakes in the city. All proceeds go to The Sylvia Center, a nonprofit that focuses on teaching cooking in underserved communities. Ticket prices range from $75-$120.

Queens See what Queens County Farm has to offer during the holiday season! There’s the Queens Farm Holiday

Market, December 1-23, which features Christmas trees, wreaths, games, toys, handmade stuffed animals, and plenty of other unique items for gifts. On select weekends in December, sign up for a Wreathmaking Workshop, no experience necessary. Then right after Christmas, December 26-28, head to the Holiday Open House for kids crafts, fireplaces, tours, mulled cider, and more.

Take the holiday celebrations from the farm to the garden at Queens Botanical Garden. Christmas in the Garden features free festive activities, such as live musical performances, photos with Santa (additional fee), tree lighting, holiday crafts, and amazing sales at the shop. Get into the holiday spirit on December 8, 12-5pm, with your family.

Looking for places to shop one-of-a-kind holiday gifts? Pop into Flushing Town Hall’s Holiday Market on December 8, 1-5pm, for a selection of goods from artists and crafts people from Queens. And don’t miss out on the performance of The Nutcracker, by Salzburg Marionette Theater, at Flushing Town Hall. The show will take place on December 4 at 7pm, and the cost is $14 for adults, $8 for kids, and free for teens.

If you always get into a cooking and baking kick once the holiday season rolls around, then sign up for the Winter Solstice Workshop: Rice Ball & Dumpling Making at Flushing Town Hall on December 15 at 2pm! Learn about traditions and stories of Chinese culture, like the Lunar New Year. Kids ages 4 and up are welcome to come, along with a caregiver. The cost is $10 for adults, $5 for students and kids, and free for teens.

As the record-holder of the Guinness World Records for Largest Gingerbread Village, made up of more than 1,300 gingerbread houses, GingerBread Lane 2019 at the New York Hall of Science is a must-see this holiday season! Candy canes are railings on staircases, pieces of gum make brick walls, and M&Ms, candy corn, jelly beans, and Necco Wafers make colorful rooftop shingles. If your little ones, ages 4 and older, want to make their own gingerbread houses or trains, sign up for a GingerBread Lane Workshop for $15. GingerBread Lane 2019 is free with museum admission. Return to the museum on January 12 for the GingerBread Lane House Giveaway, when you can take home one of the gingerbread houses, first-come, first-served.

Feeling creative? Kids ages 3 and up can come make spiced ornaments at Hands on History: Make Your Own Scented Pomander on December 7, 1-4pm.

Oranges used to be a very special fruit in the 18th and 19th century, because you could only eat them in the winter. Some of the oranges were used to make pomanders to decorate and fill homes with a lovely

scent of holiday spice. Bring your pomander home and hang it on your tree! Afterwards, visit the rest of King Manor Museum in Rufus King Park to check out their holiday decor.

Watch the production of The Nutcracker at LaGuardia Performing Arts Center in Long Island City on December 15, 3:30-5pm. Watch a little girl’s fantasy world of dolls, toy soldiers, an army of mice, snowflakes, princes, and fairies unfold on stage. After the show, kids get to meet and greet cast members and Santa in the magical Toyland, where each child will receive a special gift. Tickets are $20.

Bronx You can truly never get enough of Winter Wonderlands, so also check out Family Affair: Winter Wonderland at The Bronx Museum of the Arts. On December 7, 1-4pm, celebrate winter and the holidays with your friends and family at the museum. There will be plenty of festive art activities and games for kids ages 4 to 12 and their caregivers.

Visit the iconic Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden between November 23 and January 26. The incredible display features more than 175 famous New York landmarks, and this year’s show showcases Central Park with its beautiful landscape, architecture, and history, including Belvedere Castle. In addition to the show, there’s The Poetry of Trains: Billy Collins and Young Poets readings of poems inspired by trains, the holidays, and NYBG. Kids can also explore Evergreen Express for train-inspired fun in the Adventure Garden, including a child-sized train, crafts, sing-alongs, and an outdoor puppeteer theater!

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or both, bring your family to the Holiday Lighting Ceremony at the New York Botanical Garden! Watch the annual tree and menorah lighting on December 5, 4-5:15pm.

Gather around the tree or menorah for family photos and sing along to holiday jams with carolers.

The Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo are back and better, bigger, and greener than ever! Stroll through the zoo to see the animal lanterns, animated sculptures, colorful designs, and beautiful, bright displays of holiday magic. Holiday Lights officially opens November 29-December 31 and January 3-5, but there are also preview days on November 21-24.

Wave Hill always has something fun in store for kids, and the holiday season doesn’t disappoint. Drop in for a holiday-inspired Family Art Project during the winter months. Kids and parents will learn about the selected topic or theme, and then get creative together as they work on an exciting craft. Stop by Wave Hill anytime between 10am and 1pm for the Family Art Project!

November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

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family fun

10 MUSEUMS

MUSIC

THEATER

ATTRACTIONS

FOOD

Outdoors

Great Kid-Friendly November Events in Queens By mia salas

DIWALI DANCE PARTY: KATHAK, BHANGRA & BEYOND November 2 Celebrate Diwali at this festival and dance party for all ages! There will be special performances, cooking workshops, henna painting, Indian handicrafts, Indian food for sale, and so much more. The event features Kathak classical dancer Abha Roy and Basement Bhangra’s DJ Rekha. Learn Bollywood, bhangra, and Kathak dance moves before trying them out yourself on the dance floor! $20 adults, $15 members, $10 students & kids, free for teens, 1-4pm.

Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Boulevard, Flushing, Queens, NY 11354, flushingtownhall. org

HANDS ON HISTORY: PAINT YOUR OWN MINIATURE PORTRAIT November 2 Learn all about miniature painting in this Hands on History workshop! Check out miniature portraits from all around the world, including the United States, France, and India before making your own mini masterpiece to take home. Kids ages 6 and up and their families are welcome to

join! Free, 1-4pm. King Manor Museum in Rufus King Park, 150-03 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica, Queens, NY 11432, nycgovparks.org

MINEFAIR November 2-3 Are you a Minecraft fan? If so, join other Minecraft players and their families at the New York Hall of Science on the first weekend of November! Compete in tournaments, participate in the famed costume contest, check out the live stage shows, shop at the world’s largest official Minecraft merch store, solve your way out of the Minecraft Escape Room, get creative in the LEGO building zones, and so much more. Ticket prices vary, 9 am-5 pm. New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th Street, Corona, Queens, NY 11368, nysci.org

MARVEL MOVIE MARATHON November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Whether your family has seen every Marvel movie or only caught the last Avengers movie in theaters, this Marvel Movie Marathon is the perfect way to relax, unwind, and be entertained for hours! Note that these movies are PG-13, so the marathon is geared towards middle school age kids and up. Free 2-4 pm. Howard Beach Library, 92-06 156 Avenue, Howard Beach, Queens, NY 11414, queenslibrary.org

WILDLIFE WEEKENDS November 2-3, 9-10 There’s something for the whole family at Wildlife Weekends! Go on a pony ride or hayride, feed the animals, watch the Frogs, Bugs & Animals Show, and hop on a historic farmhouse tour. Spend the weekend at the farm as you learn all about wildlife and make memories with your family. Advanced tickets all ages $12, door tickets $15, free for members, 11 am-4 pm. Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park, New York, NY 11004-1129, queensfarm.org

Meet the frogs — and other animals — at two Wildlife Weekends at the Queens County Farm Museum.

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Queens Family | November 2019

TALES FROM THE SHED November 10 Chickenshed NYC is back at Queens

Theatre with their encore performance: Tales from The Shed! This interactive and inclusive show for young kids and families incorporates stories, songs, dancing, and plenty of laughs.

Kids ages 0 to 6 get to hang out with furry friends and follow along the immersive theater experience. $15, students and seniors $13, 1 pm and 3 pm. Queens Theater, 14 United Nations Avenue South, Corona, Queens, NY 11368, queenstheatre.org

NYCRUNS FALLING LEAVES HALF MARATHON & 5K November 16 The semi-chilly autumn weather makes for a perfect 5K or half marathon! Enjoy the fall foliage views as you run and eat a well-deserved bagel afterwards. All runners receive a medal, a t-shirt, and there are awards for all age categories, even for little ones! Registration through November 4: Half $75, 5K $40, until online registration closes: Half $85, 5K $50, Race day: Half $100, 5K $60, 9 am. Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, NY, nycruns.com

OPENING DAY OF GINGERBREAD LANE 2019 November 23 The breathtaking display of over 1,300 gingerbread houses is back this year to spread holiday cheer. Visit GingerBread Lane 2019 on opening day to be among the first to see the record-breaking gingerbread village. Kids get a kick out of the delicious candy and icing that

is used for decor. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be surprised if your little ones ask you for their own gingerbread house afterwards! Free with museum admission, Monday-Friday 9:30 am-5 pm, Saturday-Sunday 10 am-6 pm. New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th Street, Corona, Queens, NY 11368, nysci. org

Enjoy a special interactive theater performance with Tales from the Shed at the Queens Theater on November 10.

HOLIDAY FOOD SCIENCE FESTIVAL November 23-24 Learn all about the science of food, from hacks to tasty flavor combinations, in preparation for your holiday creations! Kids ages 8 and up and their families will explore the science behind making their favorite cheese, how to cook in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way, and explore the many holiday tables set up with delicious food and demonstrations. Free with admission, 12-4 pm.

New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th Street, Corona, Queens, NY 11368, nysci.org

PAJAMA STORY TIME - WILD NYC November 29 Explore the natural world and wildlife at night at the zoo! Learn about ways to help local wildlife even during the winter months and meets & greet animals. Sit back and relax for story time in your pajamas, and then enjoy delicious milk and cookies to conclude the evening â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a great way to spend a chilly November evening! $24, members $20, 5:30-8 pm. Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th Street, Corona, Queens, NY 11368, queenszoo.com November 2019 | NewYorkFamily.com

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family fun

Featured event

Events Around the City

By Mia Salas

AESOP’S FABLES November 1-3 Aesop escapes his master and embarks on a journey to Mount Olympus. He’ll learn many lessons along the way about overcoming challenges and thoughtful planning. This opera show features songs in both English and a mix of South African languages with a live score of marimba music. Aesop’s Fables is recommended for ages 7 and up. Tickets start at $17, Nov. 1, 7pm; Nov. 2, 2 pm and 7 pm; Nov. 3, 12 pm and 5 pm; show is approximately 70 minutes.

The New Victory Theater, 209 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036, newvictory.org

2019 BAYSIDE SPELLING BEE November 6 Start practicing your spelling bee words for Bayside’s Annual Spelling Bee! There will be a winner from all three age categories: 3rd-4th graders, 5th to 6th graders, and 7th to 8th graders. This is a fun way to encourage education outside of the classroom and boost your little one’s confidence! Free, 4:305:30 pm. Bayside Library, 214-20 Northern Boulevard, Queens, NY 11361, queenslibrary.org

DARTMOUTH FOOTBALL VS. PRINCETON UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL November 9 While you may associate the Yankee Stadium with baseball, get ready for the stadium to be turned into a football field! Come watch the two Ivy League schools compete and dress in the colors of the team you’re cheering for. Grab some hot cocoa, get spirited with the cheerleaders, and watch an intense

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Queens Family | November 2019

Turkey Cupcakes Workshop November 23 and 27 Get in the Thanksgiving spirit with turkey cupcakes! Learn how to make a delicious chocolate cupcake that looks just like a turkey. The first workshop on November 23 is for ages 5

and exciting football game as a family.

Tickets start at $39, 2 pm. Yankee Stadium, 1 East 161st Street, Bronx, NY 10451, goprincetontigers.com

DIY FALL FEST GAMES November 9-10 Savor the remaining days of fall with DIY Fall Fest Games! Kids ages 6 and up are invited to make their own fall-inspired games, such as ring toss, corn hole, and giant jenga. Drop in to Art, Artists & You for some fun and games that you can bring home to play with your family. Free with museum admission, 1-3 pm. Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 West 83rd Street, New York, NY 10024, cmom.org

DIY WRAPPING PAPER FAMILY ART WORKSHOP November 10 Get ready for the holiday season with this wrapping paper workshop!

Kids and their parents will learn kidfriendly printmaking techniques to

to 8 with a caregiver and the second is for ages 2 to 5. $45 per child with one caregiver, Nov. 23, 9-10am; Nov. 27, 4:30-5:30pm. Taste Buds Kitchen, 109 West 27th Street, New York, NY 10001, tastebudskitchen.com

decorate their own wrapping paper.

Everyone leaves with a full roll of their own wrapping paper to wrap their presents for the holidays. This event is recommended for kids ages 3 and up and parent participation is required. $40 for one child and parent, 10:3011:30 am. Private Picassos Art Studio, 237 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215, privatepicassos.com

NYCRUNS GO NUTS FOR DONUTS 5K November 10 Run a 5K with your family before the temperatures really drop in the winter months! Afterwards, enjoy jelly, frosted, glazed, sugared, and custard-filled donuts. Take in the amazing views of Manhattan as you run along the East River and get your adrenaline up by starting and ending the race on the Icahn Stadium track. There will be prizes for all age categories, including ages 9 and younger. $45 until online registration closes, $50 race day, 9:30 am. Icahn

Stadium, 20 Randall’s Island, New York, NY 10035, nycruns.com

VETERANS DAY IN PROSPECT PARK November 11 Get excited for family-friendly programming on Veterans Day in Prospect Park! There will be lawn games, nature exploration, DIY discovery packs, animal encounters, carousel rides, and more. Spend the day in the park as you enjoy the last of the fall weather and have fun with friends and family. Free, additional cost for carousel rides, 12-4 pm. Several locations in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, NY, prospectpark.org

DDAT: NATIVE AMERICAN HIP HOP JAZZ FUSION FAMILY PERFORMANCE November 16 Named by NPR as one of the top 10 bands in the US - DDAT combines hip hop, jazz, funk and soul with an original southwestern feel. DDAT consists of four talented musicians - Chris Bidtah (Navajo) on vocals, Delbert Anderson (Navajo) on trumpet, Nicholas Lucero on drums, and Mike McCluhan on bass. Bring your family for an interactive and exciting performance with dancing, improvisation, live painting, and more! $14 adults, $10 members, $8 kids, $6 kids who are members, free for teens, Flushing Town Hall, flushingtownhall.org

Keith Pattison

Experience a South African take on “Aesop’s Fables” at the New Victory Theater on November 1 to 3.

THE KNIGHTS: FAMILY SHOW November 23 Experience the joy of classical music in a fun and interactive environment! In this one-hour family show, little ones will learn about classical music through hands-on

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experiences, singing, and dancing. The Knights are known for connecting with audiences of all ages, making education entertaining! $10 advanced tickets, $14 day of show, 2-3 pm. BRIC House Ballroom, 647 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217, bricartsmedia.org

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We asked

Illustration by Elvia Caballero

What Are You Grateful for?

My mantra is, don’t let the things you want make you forget the things you have. and what I have — my family, our health, and our freedoms — is more than enough for me. @tarynmohrman This season I am grateful for the support system I have that helps me stay sane as a mom! Between my mom, husband, neighbors, friends, and trusted caretakers, I know how incredibly lucky I am to have so many people in our lives. I know I would not be able to balance work, kids, and basically life without these special people who are there to help me on my parenting journey. @kaityvelez I am grateful for my husband, who helped me create my son. Without them, my personal life would be far less fulling. I’m thankful for my handful of best girlfriends — they keep me grounded and laughing. Last but least, grateful for my therapist and Lexapro — without, both I would not have survived my depression this year (seriously). @julesgarces I’m grateful to spend time with my daughter and reflect on what she has learned this first semester, and have some quality time with her over the holidays and learn about giving back. Plus it’s fun to stay up later and bond over festive movies and activities! @lessav 30

Queens Family | November 2019

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