Issuu

March 2022

siparent.com

Our

Camp

Directory is here See page 28

Parental Burnout

Recognizing it — and how to move on

Hidden gem

Why Snug Harbor is one of NYC’s best-kept secrets

Family fun Check out our March Calendar of Events!

Now part of

New York Family Media

APPLICATIONS

for all grades (K–8th) are now being accepted.

PRIDE RESPECT EXCELLENCE PURPOSE New World Preparatory Charter School (NWP) is a small Public College Preparatory Charter School. For our 2022-2023 school year we will serve kindergarten through 8th grade. Founded to respond to the academic, social, and emotional needs of children from Non-English speaking households, as well as the North Shore Community of Staten Island. OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY Mar 12 | 10AM–12PM | South & West SOUTH CAMPUS 130 Merrill Ave, S.I., 10314 WEST CAMPUS 355 Morningstar Rd, S.I., 10303 EAST CAMPUS 285 Clove Rd, S.I., 10310

SCAN ME

A B C

HOW TO APPLY Pick up an application at Main Ofﬁce, NWP Print an application from newworldprep.org Apply online at nyccharterschools.schoolmint.net

www.newworldprep.org | 718.705.8990

March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

contents

March 2022 SIParent.com

pg. 30

pg. 24 pg. 8

pg. 36

pg. 38

FEATURES 22 | Podcasts Mental health podcasts for parents

Stories & columns 6 | Editor’s Note

Family fun 40 | Calendar The best family-friendly events

8 | Community and School News 30 | Education The advantages of a Charter School education 36 | Parental Burn Out How to recognize it and move on 38 | Alexis Kristiana on Mom Wisdom

10 | Mom Hacks Organize your nursery like a pro 14 | Ask the Expert Creating a social and emotional curriculum

Directories 28 | Camp Listings 34 | Preschool & Daycare Directory 45 | Professional Services

18 | Ask the Expert Bringing a baby home during COVID 24 | Visit The hidden gem that is Snug Harbor 32 | Family Day Out The Minecraft exhibit at the Liberty Science Center will delight the kids 45 | Fun Stuff Birthday Club! 46 | Staten Island Kids with Special Needs Succeeding through the Girl Scout Cookie Program

SIParent.com | March 2022

on the Cover Credit: Getty Images

CAMPS FOR EVERY KID NYC LOVES IT From S.T.E.M. to swim, sports to arts & crafts— there are so many reasons kids love Y Summer Camp.

March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

Editor’s Note

Marching Ahead! I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I just hit the submit button on both my son’s high school application and my daughter’s middle school application. It’s sure to be a busy spring with all these seniors in my house! But right now I’m still wrapping my head around the fact that I’m soon to be finished with elementary school forever – and that I’ll be the parent of a high school student in September. It’s crazy with a capital “C,” you guys. The most confusing part of the application process is where it asks you to list a bunch of choices to ensure your child receives an offer. But there are only so many schools in Staten Island! So I found myself wondering what charter schools have to offer. Although they’ve been around for a while, many parents still don’t even know what a charter school is. If that sounds like you, flip to page 30 to read all about why you might want to consider this type of education for your child. Speaking of starting high school, having a teenager is bringing me to levels of stress I never knew existed! I doubt I’m alone. Regardless of your kids’ ages, you’re probably feeling your own kind of exhaustion. Parenting is no picnic at times. Go to page 36 to read about the signs of parental burnout and what you can do about it. Mid-winter recess flew by in a flash and my kids are longing for spring break already, which unfortunately isn’t until April. But with the weather soon warming up – in like a lion, out like lamb? – you’ll find plenty of ways to fill the weekends with fun in this issue! Browse the pages for the month’s best events, and guides to family-friendly outings

NewYorkFamily.com Publisher: Clifford Luster Editorial Director: Jeannine Cintron Reporter: Barbara Russo Community Content Creator: Shara Levine Executive Director: Donna Duarte-Ladd Associate Publisher: Erin Brof Advertising Director: Stacie Goldberg Digital Editor: Courtney Ingalls Senior Adviser: Susan Weiss Partnership Managers: Lauren Alperin, Lauren Anchin, Joan Bergman, Mary Cassidy, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, Annene Guertin, LynnMarie Hanley, Lisa Herlihy, Janine Mulé, Selene Rodriguez, Nina Spiegelman, Gwen Tomaselli Marketing & Strategy Director: Rosalia Bobé Sales & Marketing Coordinator: Mykael Fields Art Director: Leah Mitch Web Developer: Sylvan Migdal

at Snug Harbor Cultural Center, and the Minecraft Exhibit at Liberty Science Center. As we head into spring this month, parents are reminded to start their search for the best camps and summer programs for their children. You’ll find our 2022 Summer Camp Directory on page 28, which should be a huge help as you get started planning for the long break. I‘ll probably spend mine crying into my kids’ yearbooks.

Graphic Designers: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti

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

Happy March!

Jeannine Cintron

President: Victoria Schneps-Yunis CEO: Joshua Schneps COO: Clifford Luster

2021

New York Family has been awarded the PMA Gold Award for Excellence in Website Design and the Silver Award for Excellence overall. New York Family is published monthly by Queens Family Media, LLC.

get in touch Share your feedback and ideas about family life in New York! Email us at editorial@newyorkfamily.com and tag us at #newyorkfamily

SIParent.com | March 2022

March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

Community News

What’s Happening

on Staten Island

New App Available for SI parents of Public School students There is a new app for Staten Island parents of public school students to help them stay up-to-date on their child’s education. The NYC Department of Education’s Staten Island School District 31 recently launched an app— the NYC District 31 Staten Island app by New York City Geographic District 31 (Staten Island). It’s designed to be a one-stop-shop for resources that parents can use to stay informed and involved in their child’s education. The app also has a student feature that includes information on financial aid, educational workshops and other resourceful topics. Funded by a $100,000 New York State grant to help improve parent engagement, the app is a result of a brainstorm between district superintendent Dr. Marion Wilson

and Jermaine Cameron, principal of the Eagle Academy of Staten Island, Clifton. Features of the app include: Social Media – The superintendent’s

Staten Island Chuck has Spoken! The city’s most adorable meteorologist— Staten Island Chuck—predicted last month that spring is on its way. The chonky groundhog emerged from his house at the Staten Island Zoo and did not see his shadow on Feb. 2, Groundhog Day. This means—according to tradition—that spring will come early this year. However, one of Chuck’s fierce competitors, Punxsutawney Phil, another local groundhog weather forecaster, disagrees. After seeing his shadow during a ceremony that took place in his hometown of Punxsutawney, PA, Phil reported that we’ll have six more weeks of wintry weather. So, who’s right? Even though it’s March, it’s still really hard to say. The two weatherpredicting rodents have had a friendly rivalry going for many years and have not always been in agreement on spring’s scheduled arrival. Fans of fair weather will be happy to know that several other regional groundhogs are siding with Chuck this year. Lady Edwina of Essex at the Turtle Back Zoo, West Orange, NJ, and Stonewall at Space Farms Zoo and Museum,

SIParent.com | March 2022

Sussex, NJ, also predicted an early spring. To help settle the issue, a human from the NYC Parks Dept. shared some expert insight. “Staten Island Chuck may be a fine meteorologist, but trust us at Parks to tell you when the flowers are blooming,” said Matthew Morrow, NYC Parks director of horticulture. “We’re already seeing snowdrops peeking up at us in Central Park and Washington Square Park, and it won’t be long before we’re graced with the buttery yellow charms of Narcissus carpeting the city. Whether earlier or later than in years past, you can definitely count on our spring blooms to herald in the new season.” No matter whose prediction is correct, the first official day of spring this year is Sunday, March 20.

twitter feed that includes posts highlighting the school district. Translation Feature – To help ensure families with language needs get access to content. Alerts – This includes notifications about upcoming meetings and workshops. Meet the Staff – Parents can read bio information on staff who work in the district office. They can also get in touch with staff members directly from the app. Program Information – Parents can get access to information about important resources when they become available, including broadband benefits, federal student aid information, health screening information and much more. Information about Individual Schools – Including elementary, middle and high schools. The app is available in the App Store and at Google Play.

IMPORTANT PUBLIC SCHOOL DATES THIS MONTH •

Wednesday, March 2 Evening parent-teacher conferences for elementary and K-8 schools. •

Thursday, March 3 Afternoon parent-teacher conferences for elementary and K-8 schools. Students in these schools will be dismissed three hours early. •

Wednesday, March 9 Evening parent-teacher conferences for middle schools and District 75 schools and programs. •

Thursday, March 10

Photo courtesy of Freshkills Park and the City of New York

Construction Nears Completion at the Freshkills’ North Park The Freshkills Park Alliance announced that construction for its North Park Phase 1 is almost complete, making it the first park project to be built within the boundary of the former Fresh Kills landfill. The park will have several sustainability features, including a composting comfort station with solar panels for lighting. It will be a self-contained unit that will not require any water. A parking lot equipped with bike racks and a bike repair station was built to support the use of alternative transportation and recreation usage. “We are thrilled that construction at

North Park Phase 1 is so close to completion,” Eloise Hirsh of the Freshkills Park Alliance said. “This is the first project to be completed in the interior of the former landfill and visitors will experience first-hand the transformation—the beauty of the wetlands and creeks and the wonders of the engineered landscape with its rolling green hills.” Construction is scheduled for completion in April. Afterward, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation must complete its certification of the site before it can open to the public. An opening date has not been announced.

Afternoon parent-teacher conferences for middle schools and District 75 schools and programs. Students in these schools will be dismissed three hours early. •

Wednesday, March 16 Evening parent-teacher conferences for high schools, K–12, and 6–12 schools. •

Friday, March 18 Afternoon parent-teacher conferences for high schools, K–12, and 6–12 schools. Students in these schools will be dismissed three hours early. •

Tuesday-Thursday, March 29-31 3-8 ELA assessment administration. March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

mom hacks

Organize Your Nursery Like a Pro Tips and tricks for a functioning room

By Laura KinseLLa of urBan Organyze

elcoming your baby home is one of life’s most precious moments. And while it is true that all a newborn really needs is sleep, food, and love, they sure come with a whole lot of stuff! As a professional organizer & mom, I’m breaking down how to organize your nursery like a pro in order to gain more time, order, and sleep for you and your littles. Designate a Changing Station No matter their size, babies will go through a multitude of diapers. Setting up a proper changing station makes the process enjoyable, efficient, and safe. It’s also what you’ll be most grateful for when experiencing those unexpected (yet inevitable) diaper blowouts! Utilize a basket next to your changing pad (look for one that has wipeable components or a washable liner) for storing a handful of diapers, wipes, creams, hand sanitizer, and

SIParent.com | March 2022

any other essentials. When restocking, take items completely out of their packaging so you aren’t fumbling with plastic or cardboard when you need them most. If you’re low on surface space, nest items in a top drawer or on a 3-tiered rolling caddy. Having a designated home for these items makes changing your baby that much easier, and builds muscle memory when you’ve got one eye open for those early morning or middle of the night changes. Pro tiP: Nest your diaper pail and hamper within arms reach, so dirty items are disposed of immediately (no lingering piles of questionable clothes!) Divide & Conquer Dresser Drawers Dresser drawers can be quite large and deep for baby items. Subdivide the drawers with expandable drawer dividers or small bins to better utilize the space, and to maintain easy organization. These allow multiple categories to live in one drawer, without small items

getting lost in one big shuffle. While your space and items will vary, here are suggested ways to group and organize your dresser drawers: Top Drawers: Diaper necessities, medicinal items, toiletries & small accessories (ie: nail care, thermometer, nasal aspirator, hats, mittens, scalp brush, etc.) Middle Drawers: Clothing & cloths (ie: socks, short sleeved vs. long sleeved onesies, footed PJs, pants, bloomers, tights, sweaters, bibs, burp cloths, washcloths, etc.) Bottom Drawers: Linens & other items (changing pads, crib sheets, swaddles, etc.) Pro tiP: File fold your clothing for a birds eye view! This method allows you to see what you have, and grab items (with one hand) without disrupting the entire drawer. Maximize Closet Storage & Beyond There is nothing sweeter then itty bitty outfits on hangers! To keep items neat and orderly, swap out the free baby hangers for slimline vel-

Thinking of Changing Schools? Consider a Catholic Education for Your Child.

Now is a good time to invest in a Catholic education! Are you interested in helping your child succeed academically in a caring, structured and safe environment? Or moving to a new home? If so, now is a good time to consider moving to a Catholic school. A Catholic education is the stepping stone to a child’s future journey. Beyond an excellent education, New York Catholic schools instill family values, spirituality, and a sense of community. For many, Catholic schools are a home away from home – a safe, nurturing learning environment in a rapidly changing world. Financial assistance is available at most schools. Families who apply early have better chances of receiving an award.

We welcome families from Pre-K3 through Grade 8 who are thinking about changing schools for the 2022–23 school year.

Admissions are open now.

APPLY NOW! Apply online or call our helpline to arrange a phone or in-person visit at participating schools.

CatholicSchoolsNY.org/apply or call our bilingual helpline: (646) 794-2885 March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

mom hacks

vet ones. Not only do they elevate the aesthetic and give a clean look, they grip the clothing so nothing slips to the floor. Add clothing dividers to separate by size (and later on by type or season.) This eliminates losing sight of precious items you were gifted so your baby can wear them when the time is right! Time is precious, and nap windows are that much more sacred. To avoid searching in every nook and cranny of the closet for that sleep sack, place everyday items in easy to reach areas, and everything else (like out of season or backstock items) in containment up high with labels. Work with your closet’s existing footprint and add components like baskets, stackable bins, or even a free standing drawer unit to maximize vertical space. Truth be told your baby’s items will naturally extend beyond the walls of the nursery. Carving a little space for your very important family member in multiple areas of your home provides flexibility as routines change. For example, creating a station for bottles or pumping gear in the kitchen keeps all parts just as easy to prep as they are sanitize. Future feeding gear will eventually replace the bottles, followed by sippy cups and your kiddos first lunch box! (I know, it’s all too much!) Pro tiP: When space is very limited, utilize a back of the door solution. These can be used for books, shoes, hair accessories, future potty training stations and so much more! implement a Donation Station & Keep Storage No matter how much we wish our babies will stay small, growth spurts will ensue. In order to keep up with the revolving door of clothes and gear, set up these 2 areas so systems stay afloat: Donation Bag: Hang a spare tote bag in a closet for items you no longer need. When something no longer fits and you don’t wish to keep it, resist the urge to toss it back into a drawer and instead place in your donation bag! When the bag is full, the bonus is it’s already totable to drop off at your local donation store or drop-box. Keep Storage: There is nothing wrong with

SIParent.com | March 2022

DesignaTe a Changing sTaTion

subDiviDe Drawers

maximize CloseT sTorage saving items to pass down or as your family potentially expands! Toss any items you wish to keep in clear closed bins to assess at a later date. When the bin is full, label it with your child’s age so you know when to pull it out again (0-6 months, 6-12 months, etc.) Pro tiP: Designate a separate box for sentimental items you wish to preserve for small baby keepsakes like their hospital bracelet or first blanket. tame the toys In the beginning months, the only entertainment your baby will need is you! Of course there will come a time when they will want to explore everything with their 5 senses (ie: shove things in their mouths) so keeping it simple is always best. Decorative baskets on the floor are a wonderful start for age appropriate toys, stuffed animals and books! They are accessible, childproof, and set your future toddler up for success in understanding basic organizing principles and clean-up. Modular cubby systems and bookshelves are great to grow into, just be sure to secure any furniture with straps as your little one begins to explore and grow.

Tame The Toys Pro tiP: Rotate toys from their closet or other areas so everything isn’t always out at once. This tames the clutter, avoids overstimulation, and reignites your child’s interest and attention!

Laura Kinsella is a mom, wife and owner of Urban OrgaNYze, a New York City based professional home organizing company. Since 2015, she has helped transform hundreds of homes to be more efficient, elegant, and meaningful. She has been featured as a Professional Organizer on A&E’s Hoarders, and more! She loves color-coded closets, The Container Store, and everything about being a mama, minus the glitter.

Join us for an Open House to learn how independent schools provide students of all ages with

ALL-SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE Saturday, April 30 9 AM-12 PM Students entering Pre-K 3 through Grade 11 and their families

Learn more online at statenislandacademy.org or call 718-303-7803.

March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

ask the expert

Creating a Social and Emotional Curriculum Steps for parents to take with their school curriculum and lessons that can be adaptive By Donna Duarte-LaDD

t has been a little over two years since the first coronavirus case was reported in the United States. And as we enter into year three, parents, well, we are all still figuring it all out. While many facets of life- new variants, remote life, school class quarantines, inflation are just a few of those icky adult issues we are dealing with, we all know kids have had to adapt in a way that we frankly did not have to during our school years. Recently considerable health experts have shared that some children are experiencing a mental health crisis and learning challenges. How can parents know their child is struggling? What steps can they take with their school curriculum, for we all know that school is essential for their education and emotional state? I chatted with Elizabeth Fraley, M.Ed. The CEO of Kinder Ready Inc., who shared advice on adapting lessons as well as creating social and emotional curriculums for our kids. What behavior should a parent look out for in their kids when concerned with their child’s demeanor? Some behaviors to look out for in children that could be affected by the pandemic could include: restlessness, anxiety, lack of eating, or sleeping. Teachers, caregivers, and parents should keep a close eye on children to ensure that all of their academic, social, and emotional needs are not overlooked during this time. Parents and teachers can also work on communication techniques with kids. Eye contact, politeness, and the ability to engage are very important milestones in your child’s

SIParent.com | March 2022

development. It is important to look out for ways in which children communicate. Is the child communicating with a positive tone? Is the child using polite and proper grammar when communicating? Outside of school, children can work on techniques to build their demeanor and let their natural personalities shine around others, whether peers or other adults. The best we can do as educators and parents is model the behaviors we want to see in our

children, as children will usually copy or mimic as they are learning. The way we talk to our children becomes their inner voice. The more we can be aware of our communication the better impact we will have on our children. We are entering into year three of this pandemic; for kids experiencing learning challenges, where does a parent first start addressing these challenges?

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March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

ask the Expert

As soon as any abnormal or different behavior is observed, parents and teachers should start addressing challenges and communicate them to each other as soon as possible. The main areas of concern could be lack of interest in schoolwork, fatigue, and fear of the virus that impacts school and life routines. Students need periodic assessment to monitor their learning needs. Checkin with your child’s teacher. The teacher can make recommendations beyond the classroom if more remediation or enrichment is needed. Some families are able to provide outside educational support focusing on early learning and social and emotional support through supplemental teachers, therapists, and outdoor schools and playgroups. That said, we are seeing families from low socioeconomic backgrounds being impacted the most with more Covid exposures and repercussions from the virus pointed back to children. For the families that cannot rely on such services, social and emotional programs through local schools and mental health facilities should be our communities’ top priorities during the pandemic. Literacy has been a thoughtful way to explain the pandemic to children. Children need to know first and foremost that they will be okay and have strategies to follow to avoid coming in contact with Covid. One of our favorite Covid books now in the Kinder Ready collection is Bray Bray Conquers The Coronavirus by Ashley Maxie-Moreman. I really loved this children’s book because it brought awareness that African Americans are disproportionately affected by Covid-19 compared to other cultural groups. Another children’s book Kinder Ready loves is called Together by Kevin Poplawski and Illustrations by Michael Rausch. This children’s book focuses on strategies to avoid and care for oneself and others after an exposure. Many students are experiencing tiredness from the stress created from the pandemic. To aid in all of the changes children are experiencing, they need to have consistent routines that ensure they’re getting plenty of sleep. Children also need to eat nutritious diets that are consistent and low in sugar and fat. Children can also participate in yoga and other mindfulness groups through private classes or online for free. Many students are fearful of the unknown and the extended time in which masking has been required in schools. While many students are unphased, some are

SIParent.com | March 2022

“With the lack of interactions and the broken chain of communication with mask-wearing, children’s overall learning abilities, social and emotional growth, and sense of normalcy has been greatly altered compared to what we had pre-pandemic.” dramatically impacted. Check-in with your child’s mental health, seek the guidance of teachers and mental health professionals. As soon as your child is observed acting differently or is under situational stress, seek the guidance of professionals right away. What are your own experiences and unique education from dealing with kids going through challenges? It is imperative for preschoolers and young children to be able to experience and recognize feelings and learn to express themselves, as these are the most important social and emotional fundamentals. But unfortunately, with a mask, many of these teachable moments and experiences have diminished, putting our children’s early development and readiness at risk. With the lack of interactions and the broken chain of communication with mask-wearing, children’s overall learning abilities, social and emotional growth, and sense of normalcy has been greatly altered compared to what we had pre-pandemic. However, schools and teachers can readopt social and emotional curriculums to cover ways in which we can communicate and express ourselves while masked in the classroom. Students need strategies to better communicate and grow during the unprecedented time from 2020 to current. Many outdoor playgroups and experiences can help keep children unmasked and safe during these unprecedented times. As an educator, I can be there for my students to make sure that their social and emotional needs are being met. During the early part of the pandemic, I worked with younger students and helped them understand how masks keep us safe. We used masked teddy bears to help young students practice putting on masks and help them learn the importance of keeping them safe. I have also reviewed with students the importance of proper handwashing and taking care of ourselves. Zoom has also been a great resource to see a child without a mask

in the comfort of their own home. What is your advice for parents on adapting lessons and keeping open lines of communication with your child’s teachers and at home? Keeping an open line of communication with parents is so important, especially during these unprecedented times. One way to keep an open line of communication is through a journal. I will write daily notes in a student journal that is sent home from the classroom each day. After each learning session, we also email parents to keep them in the loop on all things related to their child’s everchanging academic and social and emotional needs. Instagram is another easy tool for sharing pictures of learning and highlights from the day with parents. There are many ways in which lessons can be adapted. For example, on Zoom a lesson would be shorter than a live lesson where children have more interaction with their teacher. If lessons are on Zoom, tactile learning really helps to keep a child engaged. Materials for these lessons are sent ahead to the families. With the pandemic, we have had to adapt and resort to Zoom instruction time and time again with the surges in cases. Elizabeth is the current CEO/Founder of KinderReady, Inc. After spending over three years as a director of an early elementary program, Elizabeth started her own educational service company. Elizabeth is an education contributor for Huff Post. Elizabeth’s teaching philosophy offers a structured curriculum along with progressive approaches to highly, individualized teaching and learning. Elizabeth has over a decade of experience in early learning specializing in assessment, curriculum development, English Language Learning, and progress monitoring for grades preschool-6th grade. Elizabeth has specialized training in Love and Logic, a social and emotional curriculum. Elizabeth enjoys working with families and working with children to help them reach their fullest potential as learners.

March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

ask the expert

Bringing Home a Baby During a Covid-19 Surge By The BaBy Whisperers Jeri Ford, rN, BsN and Kayla loschKy, rN, BsN

onsistently throughout the pandemic we have heard how Covid-19 seems to effect children and infants less than adults. Although that may have previously been true, the recent Omicron variant has proven to effect children more than past variants. As pediatric nurses, we have seen a large spike in hospital admissions with this variant. Children younger than 5 have already consistently had the highest hospitalization rate of all children’s age groups for Covid-19 (Vox). Couple this with the already present

SIParent.com | March 2022

stress of bringing home a newborn, and new parents have a lot to worry about. Below are practical tips we have gathered from years of working with newborns and families as pediatric registered nurses. 1. Wash your hands….and often! This is not a new concept, but we cannot stress this enough. In nursing school, we would make the joke that if there was ever a multiple choice question with an answer of “hand washing”- that was always the answer. Handwashing is so important that nursing schools and post-nursing school exams continuously reinforce the topic. How you wash your hands matters, too.

Make sure you are washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap to kill the most germs. Make sure to get all the cracks and crevices! If a sink is not close, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer should be used. Hand sanitizer is wonderful if you are in a rush, but hand washing is always the most effective. 2. Wear your mask. After two years into the pandemic, we finally know that Covid-19 is transmitted through droplets. This means that you are most likely to spread the virus by speaking closely with someone or by being around someone coughing. The best way to add another layer of protection against this is by asking visitors to wear a mask, especially while holding the baby. 3. Get your Covid-19 vaccine. As of the time this article was written, the Covid-19 vaccine has not been approved

STATEN ISLAND ACADEMY www.statenislandacademy.org/summer/welcome • 718-303-7845 cbruno@statenislandacademy.org

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ask the Expert

for infants. The best way to protect your infant is by having visitors and yourselves be vaccinated.

Learn more

For more information about preventing other newborn viruses (like RSV), visit our blog post (yourbabywhisperers. com/post/ahh-it-s-rsv-andflu-season-what-can-i-do) about RSV and more Covid19 newborn information at yourbabywhisperers.com/post/ caring-for-your-newborn-duringthe-coronavirus-pandemic.

4. Keep your newborn inside. It is often recommended if you have a newborn to keep him or her inside for the first two to three months of life. Infants are still adjusting to their new environment and there are many new germs around in general, let alone during a pandemic. If it is not realistic for you to stay inside for a couple months, keep your newborn covered. This means in the stroller with a cover over it or in a baby carrier with a lightweight cover to help block airborne germs.

the pandemic, visit our blog post about breastfeeding during Covid here.

5. Breastfeed if you can. If you have had the Covid vaccine or had Covid naturally (or both), your breastmilk is incredibly valuable to your newborn baby. Breastfeeding your baby as much as you can, even if just a little, can help them. You can even breastfeed your baby while you have Covid-19 as long as you wear a mask. For more information about breastfeeding during

6. Limit visitors. Limiting visitors can be an incredibly difficult thing to do during this time. Your newborn is here, and family is eager to meet him or her. Although difficult, limiting visitors can be key in preventing a Covid-19 infection in you or your newborn. We have spoken to many new parents during the pandemic who have said that this time to

SIParent.com | March 2022

focus on themselves and the baby, without constant distraction with visitors, has been a wonderful gift to them. Focusing on your health and the health of your newborn is the first priority. 7. Know the symptoms of Covid in babies. Reported symptoms in newborns with Covid-19 are fever, being overly tired, runny nose, cough, vomiting, diarrhea, poor feeding, and trouble breathing. If your baby develops symptoms, get in touch with your baby’s pediatrician as soon as possible. If your baby is having warning signs such as trouble breathing, call 911 or take to ER immediately. Baby Whisperers is the only private baby nurse agency that matches families with baby nurses who are licensed Registered Nurses. To find out about the different types of newborn caregivers, check out our Baby Nurse, Nanny, Newborn Care Specialist, Oh My! blog here. For more information, visit our website at www. yourbabywhisperers.com.

Prodigy is designed to be a home away from home for children where they can learn, laugh, grow, and have fun. Our program focuses on inspiring creativity and independence through a socially stimulating and academically challenging curriculum.

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March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

Podcasts

Mental Health Podcasts for Parents By Courtney Ingalls

fter the two-plus years we have had, I think many people can easily say that 2022 is all about focusing on mental health. While some people might try using methods such as working out or incorporating reading into your routine, listening to a mental health podcast has also shown to be a good alternative to try as well! Whether you are looking to get advice from a professional or are looking to get some comedic relief, these popular podcasts are a great starting point when it comes to bettering your mental health! The Hilarious World of Depression Available on Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts

Veteran Radio host John Moe wants to take the stigma surrounding depression away and give people a way to listen to others stories while also having a good laugh. Moe brings comedians on to his show to talk about their experiences while dealing with depression and hopes to give some comedic relief to those who listen.

Santos will bring you through a different misconception of what it means to be happy and helps her viewers realize what makes them truly happy. The Self Work Podcast Available on Apple Podcasts

After having 25 years of psychology experience, Dr. Margaret Rutherford is using her podcast as a platform to give her listeners a form of therapy or experience they need to continue bettering their mental health. Dr. Rutherford uses a compassionate direction when speaking about serious topics to give people both a soothing and educational experience while listening. Therapy for Black Girls Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify

Dr. Joy Harden Bradford is a licensed psychologist and created her podcast to encourage the mental wellness of Black women and girls. Bradford focuses on mental health and personal development and her episodes cover a variety of mental health topics that are all about becoming the best possible versions of ourselves.

The Happiness Lab Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify

Tara Brach Available on Apple Podcasts

Have you ever told yourself that you would be happy once you get your dream job, make lots of money, etc.? Well Dr. Laurie Santos proves that not to be true in her podcast The Happiness lab. During each episode,

If you are someone that can’t just listen to podcasts, but have to physically take action, then this is the podcast for you! Known for her meditation techniques and as a published author, Tara Brach uses her podcast platform

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as a way to give listeners weekly guided meditations. These mindful meditations focus on spiritual awakening and getting rid of emotional suffering that many of us continue to hold on to. The Mental Illness Happy Hour Available on Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts

Creator and comedian Paul Gilmartin describes his popular podcast as “more like a waiting room that doesn’t suck,”. Gilmartin (who is a recovering alcoholic and was diagnosed with clinical depression) talks to people who are living with mental health issues and uses humor to hopefully encourage others to seek professional help. Although The Mental Illness Happy Hour is not meant to replace any kind of medical care, it does help normalize talking about mental health while also adding comedic relief to your day. Terrible, Thanks for Asking Available on Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts

Are you a person who constantly says they are “fine” when someone asks how they are doing, even though you know deep down you are not? Well Nora McInerny makes listeners think about how they really are with Terrible, Thanks for Asking. McInerny talks to real people who share their complicated and honest feelings to show others that it is ok to open up and show others that you might be struggling.

JCC Early Childhood Education Center Over 50 years of experience in early childhood education

Pre-K For All & 3-K For All spots available! •Four convenient locations •Small class size •Abides by all NYC DOHMH regulations •All COVID-19 protocols followed •Indoor & outdoor play areas •Licensed by the NYC Bureau of Daycare •Extended morning & evening hours and extra-curricular activities available •Socialization, thematic curriculum & experiential centers

First Foot Forward

The JCC has over 30 years of experience serving preschool children with special needs! Funded by New York City and State 3 convenient locations We specialize in helping children with: •Speech/Language Delays •Socialization Concerns •Developmental Delays •Poor Motor Skills •Sensory Needs •Autism Spectrum Disorder

For more information, visit SIJCC.org March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

Family day out

Snug Harbor: NYC’s Hidden Gem Find something for everyone at this Staten Island hotspot By Barbara Russo

t’s well known that arts and entertainment is alive in New York City. But off the city’s beaten path is a cultural hotspot where art thrives, community connects and nature inspires. Staten Island’s Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden is a hidden gem that many New Yorkers outside the borough have yet to discover. Set on a sprawling 83-acre campus dotted with trees, gardens, museums, historic architecture and so much more, Snug Harbor provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Sure, Staten Island is already known as the “borough of parks.” But Snug Harbor is packed with parks and more, making it a prime cultural center in the Big Apple. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, nature lover or appreciate live music and performances, there’s something for families and individuals of all ages to enjoy at Snug Harbor. Eva Scripps-Callahan

History of Snug Harbor on Staten Island Snug Harbor was originally established through an endowment as a retirement home for sailors in the 1800s. Back then, it was called “Sailors’ Snug Harbor.” By the mid-20th century, the number of residents at Sailors’ Snug Harbor started to decrease, due in part to Social Security and other programs becoming available to financially help retirees. Snug Harbor’s history is rich and deep, and through the years, it eventually became the cultural locale that Staten Islanders know and love today. When you visit, you can simply meander through the beautiful grounds, or pop into some of the on-site attractions. There are 26 historic structures, botanical gardens, a 2-acre urban farm, wetlands and parkland, and so much more at Snug Harbor. It’s important to note that it’s free to enter the grounds, but some on-site institutions do charge admission. Museums at Snug Harbor Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical

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Garden is home to five educational and exciting museums: Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art

This is Snug Harbor’s main art gallery. It is one of the first buildings visitors see upon entering the campus from the Richmond Terrace entrance, which is located off of Staten Island’s north shoreline. Set in a Greek-Revival building on the front lawn, the museum serves as Snug Harbor’s Visitor Center. And of course, it’s a great place to see art. The galleries feature exciting and experimental art from across the world. Hours: Call 718-425-3524 for information. Admission: $5; $4 seniors; free for children 5 and younger. The Staten Island Children’s Museum

Kids of all ages enjoy this whimsical and educational museum. The museum offers cultural, imaginative and creative experiences for kids ages 1 and older. It’s

home to 12 indoor and outdoor exhibits, workshops and lots of events for kids and families to enjoy. Be sure to say hello to Francis the Praying Mantis, a giant metal mantis-shaped art installation, when you stop by! Hours: Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm and 2-5pm. Also open on many school holidays. Admission: $8. Free for children younger than 1. Staten Island Museum

Children and adults with a passion for nature and the environment will enjoy the Staten Island Museum. The museum’s history traces back to 1881 when a group of young naturalists began to pool their collections with a goal to keep record for future generations and advocate for environmental preservation. It opened as a public museum in 1908. Through the years, the museum grew, and today, it maintains exhibits that focus on connections between art, natural science and history.

March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

Family day out

Hours: Friday-Sunday, 11am-5pm; Suggested admission: $8; $5 seniors; $2 ages 2-12.

established artist and community groups. Hours and admission: Call 718-447-8667 for information.

Noble Maritime Collection

Botanical Gardens at Snug Harbor

If you love learning about local waters, you’ll love this museum at Snug Harbor, home to exhibits that celebrate the working waterfront of New York Harbor in the tradition of artist John A. Noble (1913-1983). The museum preserves Robbins Reef Lighthouse and the history of Snug Harbor when it was a home for retired sailors. Curious about Robbins Reef Lighthouse? Owned by the Noble Maritime Collection, it is located between Staten Island’s North Shore and the Statue of Liberty. Hours: Thursday-Sunday, 12-5pm. Admission is by donation.

The botanical gardens at Snug Harbor are plentiful. Most are free to enter, but there is a charge to enter the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden ($5; $4 seniors; free for children 5 and younger). Other gardens include: Rose Garden Perennial Garden White Garden Allee RCSF Tuscan Garden Connie Gretz Secret Garden Wetlands Healing Garden

Art Lab: School of Fine and Applied Arts and Gallery

Snug Harbor also offers a variety of public events, activities, programs and more.

The Art Lab offers classes and workshops, and maintains gallery space. It provides opportunities for exhibitions of the work of students, faculty, emerging artists,

Plan Your Visit Where is Snug Harbor located? Snug Harbor is located in Staten Island

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at 1000 Richmond Terr. It is accessible by S40 bus from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal. The bus ride from the ferry is approximately 10 minutes. When is Snug Harbor open? The grounds of Snug Harbor are open daily, dawn to dusk, but individual museum hours vary. How much does it cost to visit Snug Harbor? Visiting the outdoor grounds is free, but admission varies per museum. What are Snug Harbor’s current COVID guidelines? Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required for visitors ages 5 and older to enter all indoor spaces. Face coverings for visitors ages 2 and older are required in all indoor spaces and the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden, as well as in outdoor areas when social distancing is not possible. For more information, visit snug-harbor.org.

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March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

Camp Directory | Special Advertising Supplement Art Lab

Fun Station Day Camp

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

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

Big Bird’s Playhouse 1859 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY bigbirdsplay@aol.com bigbirdsplayhouse.com facebook.com bigbirdsplayhouse Children will enjoy trips to parks, roller skating, aquarium, Liberty Science Center, Turtleback Zoo, swimming, bowling, movies & sports. Parents have the choice between on site, infants - 5 year olds or Traveling camp ages 5-10. July 5 - August 26. Established 1991. Give your child the best summer ever!

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JCC Day Camp 1301 Manor Road Sept-Jun 718.475.5231 July-Aug 718.983.9000 gwechsler@sijcc.com camp.sijcc.org facebook.com/ StatenIslandJCCDayCamp instagram.com/sijcc_camp Fun is our tradition! Explore nature at a picturesque 100acre campsite. Camp programs include sports, aquatics, performing arts, music,

coding, woodworking, STEM, archery, boating, and more. Proven safety track record, all CDC protocols followed. Accredited by the American Camping Association. Marvin’s Camp for Children with Special Needs and inclusion opportunities also available.

Marvin’s Camp for Children with Special Needs 1301 Manor Road 718.475.5268 Lirizarry@sijcc.com camp.sijcc.org facebook.com/ StatenIslandJCCDayCamp instagram.com/sijcc_camp Marvin’s Camp for Children with Special Needs is committed to providing an educational, creative, social, and safe environment for kids and teens with disabilities. All Marvin’s programs are led by highly experienced staff with degrees in special education, social work, and school psychology. Low staff-to-camper ratios. We also offer an inclusion program in our traditional camp program. Interview required for all new campers.

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

Super Soccer Stars x Pro Soccer Kids Over 90 locations across NYC, LI, and Westchester 606 Columbus Ave. at 89th St., Manhattan, 212-877-7171 55 Front St., Suite 7, Rockville Centre, 516-740-7171

soccerstars.com info@soccerstars.com Super Soccer Stars is NY’s #1 Youth Soccer Program for 20 years. Certified coaches lead small, age-specific group classes, promoting teamwork and offering individual attention, following safety guidelines. Parent & Me, FUNdamentals, Development Training, Multi-sport, and NEW Scrimmage Games programs. Private classes also available - anytime, anywhere. Ages 1-12+. Save $20 – Code: NYFSPRING

Young People’s Day Camp 3250 Richmond Avenue Staten Island, NY ypdc.com/staten-island-daycamp 718-679-2917 Located out of the beautiful Elks Lodge on Richmond AVE, the programs are packed with activities: swimming, sports, arts and crafts, karate, weekly trips to baseball games, amusement parks, aquariums & more! Camp Director Chris Igneri is

a former licensed NY and NJ school teacher and had over 20 years experience with camp. Flexible tuition and payment plans are available.

YMCA of Greater New York Summer Camp ymcanyc.org/camp YMCA Summer Day Camp offers the best of adventure, aquatics, sports & games, creative arts, camp traditions, special guests & trips, and summer learning. YMCA programs for ages 3-15 are designed to meet your child’s interests and abilities. In 2022, they are offering a theme for each of their two-week sessions: Camp at Sea, Out of this World, Summer of Imagination and The Greatest Color War, providing unique activities and campers with special memories. Two-week sessions run June 27-Aug 19 with a bonus Camp Rocks! week from Aug 22-26. Inperson and virtual open house option. Enrollment extras available.

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Education

The Advantages of Charter Schools By HannaH Mallard and donna duarte ladd

significant advantage of living in New York is that we have fantastic school resources. One education choice for New York students that continues to grow is Charter Schools. What is a Charter school, and how do they work? What is a Charter School? Charter schools are independently-operated public schools accountable for advancing student achievement. This combination of freedom and accountability allows charter teachers to adapt their classrooms based on their students’ needs while pushing for high academic achievement. New York City’s 267 charter schools are independent of the New

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York City Department of Education, but they can be closed if they don’t meet certain student achievement standards. Charter schools offer students opportunities for academic success that unfortunately cannot be said for some of the city’s public schools. NYC Charters Outperform Other Public Schools According to New York state exams statistics in 2019, 63% of charter students in grades three through eight passed the state math exam and 57% of charter students were proficient in English Language Arts. New York’s charter students outperformed their peers from traditional public schools: 46% of traditional public school students passed the state math exam

and 47% of these students were proficient in English Language Arts. NYC Charters Do Not Succeed at the Expense of District Schools A common myth is that as New York’s charter schools succeed, the city’s traditional public schools fail as a result. A 2018 study by the Manhattan Institute concluded that “competition from New York City charter schools has either no effect, or a positive effect,” on the city’s traditional public schools. In fact, district schools have improved significantly as charter schools have spread throughout New York City’s five boroughs. Funding for district schools has also increased as the student population at charter schools has gone up over the years.

Charter Schools are Specialized, with No Tuition Costs Charter teachers adapt their classrooms and teaching methods to the current needs of their students. This freedom in the curriculum, teaching style, school missions and policies resembles that of private schools, enabling charter schools to provide the very best approach to academics that fits their students. Though teachers have flexibility, charter schools are held accountable for high academic achievement levels. Charter School is a Lottery System New York City’s charter schools admit students through a lottery system; they cannot select their students. This process gives students from all backgrounds and education levels an equal opportunity to attend and achieve academic success at charter schools. Charter Students have had Access to Great Schooling Despite COVID-19 When the COVID-19 pandemic hit New York, charter schools across the five boroughs immediately transitioned to remote learning that

Freedom in the curriculum, teaching style, school missions and policies resembles that of private schools, enabling charter schools to provide the very best approach to academics that fits their students. adapted to the students in each classrooms’ needs. 75% of New York’s charter schools had created a remote learning procedure before the March 2020 lockdown. Charter students only had to wait an average of three days to begin remote learning after in-person learning was closed. Both charter students and teachers had the tools to continue learning and teaching from home. 80% of New York charter schools provided students with devices for remote learning before schools were closed and 98% of New York’s charter school teachers had the technology to conduct remote instruction. Charter schools have been able to keep students accountable and maintain a high level of learning despite COVID-19 and its ramifica-

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tions on education. 85% of New York’s charter schools continued to introduce new learning content to students through the pandemic and charter schools were three times more likely to take attendance during remote classes compared to traditional schools. Charter schools also expanded nonacademic programs such as social-emotional counseling and family outreach during the pandemic. 75% of charter teachers increased their office hours during remote learning and 91% of charter teachers increased their time spent on communication with families during the pandemic. Learn more about Charter Schools with our Charter School Listings online at newyorkfamily. com/?s=charter+schools

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Family day out

Minecraft Exhibit will Delight Kids Liberty Science Center show fosters creativity and fun By BarBara russo

re you ready to get your game on? It’s time to head to Liberty Science Center in Jersey City for its new, upcoming exhibit: Minecraft: The Exhibition, featuring the scenes and characters from the popular video game, Minecraft. The interactive exhibit, which opens on Feb. 18, gives Minecraft fans an opportunity to step inside the world of the game, surrounded by blocky scenes and characters from Minecraft builds. But you don’t have to be a Minecraft wiz to enjoy the exhibit. Those who aren’t familiar with the game will still learn the fundamental skills and moves at game stations inside the gallery to start building their own worlds. Minecraft (for anyone who’s heard of it but isn’t sure) is a video game where players explore a blocky, virtual world and discover raw materials, craft tools, build structures and much more. According to Common Sense Media, it can also be educational, and its focus on building can reinforce geometry concepts, as it strengthens players’ logic skills, creativity, and even collaboration. What to Expect This is the East Coast premiere of the exhibit, which was created by MoPop, the Museum of Popular Culture, in partnership with Mojang Studios. The exhibit is a 6,000-square-foot multimedia experience designed for both Minecraft players and non-players of all ages. Highlights of Minecraft: The Exhibition include: Life-Size Characters: The exhibit features photo opportunities with 15 life-size characters from Minecraft, including the explosive Creeper and mysterious Enderman. A diorama includes a Minecraft tree, zombie, and wolf. Phantoms fly overhead, chickens scramble underfoot and baby pandas play in a bamboo forest.

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Courtesy of Liberty Science Center.

Time-Lapse Builds: Videos showing time-lapse builds and veteran players at work designed to help museum visitors become experts at the game. Crafting Table: Players can use cards that represent building materials from the game to make their own objects and tools. These materials include wood, iron and obsidian.

10am-4pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm. The exhibit will be available through Sept. 5.

What to Know About Visiting Where is the Liberty Science Center located? Liberty Science Center is located at 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City, NJ.

What are the Liberty Science Center’s current COVID guidelines? Liberty Science Center requires proof of full COVID-19 vaccination for all visitors age 12 and older.

When is Minecraft: The Exhibition open? Minecraft: The Exhibition is open anytime Liberty Science Center is open. Regular winter hours are Thursday-Friday,

How much are Liberty Science Center Minecraft: The Exhibition tickets? Tickets are $8, plus general admission to the museum ($29.99; $24.99, ages 2-12). Tickets are on sale now.

For more information, visit lsc.org or follow the Liberty Science Center on Facebook or Instagram.

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Preschool & Daycare Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

Castleton Hill Moravian Church Preschool 1657 Victory Blvd., 10314 718-442-5350 Betty Jane Bullen mtobia@castletonhillpreschool. com castletonhillmoravianpreschool. com Programs: Tot-Time-Together 12-20 months old, 2-year-old toddler classes, 3-year-old halfday classes, 3K For All, Pre-K For All Objective: A creative early childhood program where the developmentally appropriate curriculum encourages children to enjoy being young while they look forward to growing older.

The Children’s Center – College of Staten Island 2800 Victory Blvd., 10314 Building 2R, Room 104 718-982-3190 csi.cuny.edu/childcare Programs: Infant/toddler programs, Preschool program, 3K and Pre-K for All full-day, school-age program (pending enrollment) Objective: Early education and

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child care. Flexible scheduling. Subsidized fees for children of CSI students. NAEYC accredited.

Children’s Harbor Montessori School Located in Snug Harbor Cultural Center, Building G, 3rd Floor 1000 Richmond Terrace , 10301 718-442-6112 Dina Baio-McLaughlin,Director childharborms@aol.com childrensharbormontessori.com Programs: Toddler and PrePrimary programs including Pre-K for All (PKA Full Day) and Kindergarten, full- and half-day options. Objective: Since 1978, our Montessori philosophy, creative curriculum, and loving staff have developed the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of our students. Each student’s unique personality is encouraged and respected as an important member of the Montessori community. Our students can work at their own pace to indulge in the innate willingness to learn.

JCC of Staten Island

Prodigy Preschool

1466 Manor Road • 10314 2221 Richmond Ave.,10314 1297 Arthur Kill Road • 10312 485 Victory Blvd., 10301 718-475-5230 Jayne Smith jsmith@sijcc.org • sijcc.org Programs: Day care stars at 3 months, 3-K For All, and Pre-K For All. Extended hours available. Objective: We offer a stimulating, individualized, age-appropriate curriculum. A developmental approach fosters social and emotional growth.

3080 Arthur Kill Road .,10309 718-948-4800 Jessica Turkus jessicaturkus@thepavilion.org pavilionprodigypreschool.com Programs: Preschool. Free Full-Day UPK. Summer Camp. Ice-skating lessons. Extended hours available. Objective: Prodigy is designed to be a home away from home for children where they can learn, laugh, grow, and have fun! We promote problem solving, physical fitness, independence, and teamwork.

Most Terrific Child Center

St. Joseph Hill Academy

555 Tompkins Avenue, 10305 718-273-0334 mtcdaycare.com mtcdaycare@yahoo.com facebook.com/Most-TerrificChild-Center-105004707711431 Programs: We are an early education center that provides free full-day 3K and Pre-K programs. Objective: Children engage in critical and fun environments through art, music and movement, learning technology, & science.

850 Hylan Blvd., 10305 718-981-1187 stjosephhillacademy.com Eileen Gregor egregor@stjhill.org facebook.com/SJHA1919 instagram.com/sjhaes Programs: Pre-K3 to eighth grade. Pre-K3 and Pre-K4; full or half days. SJHA is a Project Lead The Way School. Objective: SJHA has been providing a premier Catholic education to the Staten Island community for more than 100 years.

Staten Island Academy 715 Todt Hill Road ., 10304 718-303-7803 statenislandacademy.org ccrane65@statenisland academy.org Programs: Coed college prep school for Pre-K3 to grade 12. Free extended day 7am-7pm. Full-day 3- or 5-days-a-week program offered for Pre-K3 students. Summer programs. College guidance program. Academic Resource Center staffed with Orton-Gillingham trained specialists. Needbased Financial Aid available beginning in Kindergarten. Objective: Pre-K fosters independence, encourages children to pursue individual interests, and nurtures developing language and social skills.

Tender Care Preschool Catholic Charities of Staten Island 6581 Hylan Blvd. 718-317-2849 lherman@cc-si.org Programs: Full-day 2-year-old class. Free full-day 3K and preK. Extended hours: 7am-6pm.

Objective: Tender Care Preschool is a loving and caring place for children and families. We support children where they need it and challenge them when they are ready for the next step. At Tender Care Preschool, children become lifelong learners with a strong foundation and are well prepared for their educational journey.

A MODERN CHILDCARE AND WELLNESS CENTER

Tiny Treasures Academy 360 Van Duzer St., 10304 718-273-5157 tinytreasuresdaycare.com Alina Nevradakis main@tinytacademy.com Programs: Ages 6 weeks and older. Extended hours available. Objective: We are a day care and wellness center with a twist on traditional ways of enhancing our children’s development and supporting the modern-day parent. We differentiate ourselves by offering a holistic approach in both body and mind to equip kids with tools for a healthier and happier life. Tiny Treasures has few holiday closures.

Call or visit our website to learn more TinyTreasuresDaycare.com • (718) 273-5157 360 Van Duzer Street, 10304

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March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

Parental Burnout How to recognize it and expert advice on how to move on By Courtney Ingalls

e all know that life as a parent can be stressful. Some parent’s feel like they can never catch a break, especially due to Covid-19 keeping kids at home during the designated alone time that all parents need. If you have noticed that you have been in a constant funk or have been developing more stress,that could be signs that you are experiencing parental burnout. We spoke with Natalie Weder, MD, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at the Child Mind Institute about some common signs of parental burnout and what steps you can take to prevent it. First off, can you talk a little bit about what parental burnout is? Typically as a parent you spend a lot of time taking care of your children, spending a lot of your energy making sure they’re safe, making sure that they are stimulated, making sure they have what they need. So sometimes parents,either because of environmental aspects like Covid or all of a sudden having to be teachers and tutors in addition to just parenting because they are studying from home, or you have less access to resources that you would access otherwise, have to spend so much time taking care of kids that sometimes they start neglecting their own needs. As a result, they can experience burnout, and burnout has different aspects to it: One is the typical you feel very fatigue, you feel very exhausted and it’s hard to feel that you recover from that exhaustion. There is also this sense of either shame or guilt because you know you’re not supposed to ever feel bad about being a parent or you’re supposed to always enjoy time with your kids and those types of things.

SIParent.com | March 2022

You can also start feeling kind of emotionally distant from your kids because there is so much exhaustion and it’s so constant that it’s very hard to then feel a sense of wanting to connect or being able to connect. It can also have a toll on your mental health because you feel more isolated, you feel sad, it’s hard to find the joy in things. What are some of the most common signs of a burnout the parents should look out for? The most common ones tend to be excessive fatigue, feeling that you are exhausted all the time, feeling like you feel more distant from your children that you can’t be emotionally present or that you can’t find the emotional resources or the emotional availability to be connected with them. And then kind of finding it hard to to enjoy things and enjoy being a parent, enjoying your time with them and feeling more joy in the moment. How has parental burnout been even harder since the start of Covid? I think the way we typically as parents balance the needs of our children and what we have to sacrifice and invest daily in their well being, is by having breaks and having them have their own structure while you do things that are important to you and taking care of your own needs and well being. Also using your community as your support. We know that in cultures where the role of parenting is to some extent shared or supported by family members, friends or the community and there tends to be less burnout because there’s a sense of shared experience and you tend to have more support. Whereas in more individualistic cultures where it’s typically just one or two parents- it can typically feel more intense.

So I think with Covid, not being able to first have our structure and routine which we all depend on so much for well being is totally destroyed or changed. Also the sense of uncertainty, not knowing when it’s going to end- we don’t have that. You never know when the new variant’s

this lack of being emotionally present or this lack of enthusiasm. And so the kids first start worrying about their parents because they notice that something is wrong. Secondly they many times tend to internalize things, saying “oh maybe this is my fault”, “maybe I’m not being a good child” and kids can feel guilty themselves. Sometimes kids also try to use their own strategies to help the parent and sometimes that makes things worse because they might demand even more attention because they are worried about the bond or they’re worried about the parent and that ends up being more stressful for the parent. Sometimes when a parent is experiencing burnout, they don’t have the same degree of emotional resources so they can lose their temper, they can be more irritable, they can snap or they can angry more and kids tend to feel that. What are some changes you can make into your regular routine to help prevent parental burnout? The first thing is to feel comfortable talking about it. Really work on the guilt and be able to vent to people that you trust or to other parents, whoever is in your support system that’s an adult. Being able to talk about your feelings, being able to talk about your problems just in itself can be a huge relief. The other piece is to evaluate your stress. Sometimes when we’re so stressed out we can just go on automatic and don’t stop to think and pause to see what’s happening. So get a sense of “How am I doing?”, “What do I need?”, “What’s missing in my life?”. Then to really work on consistency and self care. Sometimes parents feel like they have to spend every minute with their child and if they don’t or they go out to exercise, they are neglecting them when in fact the better the well being of the parent, the better the well being of the child.

going to come or when schools are going to shut down and someones going to get sick and you’re going to have to quarantine. Also not being able to use your support system- no playdates, no birthday parties, no visiting the grandparents, no letting them have a sleepover with someone- those are all

moments in which you would typically get some degree of rest. How could parental burnout affect kids? Kids are very perceptive and they know their parents really well. So they can sense this- they notice this fatigue and they notice

For parents that are trying to keep it all together, what kinds of techniques can they use to help with their parental burnout? Some of the things we have mentioned should help with the burnout that they have. Now if it’s going beyond- like sometimes it starts as stress and burnout and then it can end up in depression or extreme anxiety- to the point where it is impairing their wellbeing or the wellbeing of the family that they seek out professional help. There are ways and treatments available to help them feel less depressed or feel less anxious and so on. March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

A Mom’s Wisdom Alexis Kristiana on sharing her breastfeeding and parenting journey

By Donna Duarte-LaDD

first learned of Alexis Kristiana via mutual friend Denise Nicole (@abrooklybabe). She did what many savvy parents do these days and introduced a group of moms to each other on Instagram. I immediately gravitated to Alexis’s fashion IG @liquidgoldvintage, where she sells curated picks for nursing and onthe-go momsI also love Alexis for sharing her parenting experiences, such as breastfeeding, on her platform. When I started to follow her IG (@alexiskristiana) I was on child number two and felt a bit distant from other parents as my son was being diagnosed early with Autism, and I was not meeting other moms. It was refreshing to revisit the experiences I had with my first son and know that we moms are on a similar journey. I was not breastfeeding at the time, but I appreciated Alexis’s wisdom on breastfeeding. Along with her amazing husband, Tolu Adegoke, they have fun. Yet, they can still be frank and raw with their parenting experiences with their two children Zion, 2.5 years old, and new baby Zuri, five months. Any seasoned mom will tell you; moms need moms- Alexis Kristiana’s wisdom and shared journey is reminder that you are never alone. How has your journey of breastfeeding evolved from Zion to Zuri? When I first started my breastfeeding journey with Zion, I had no idea what I was doing. My mom did not breastfeed us because she was stationed away in the Navy and was not able to. I didn’t have any close family to look to for resources at the start of my journey. So it was a lot of learning and guesswork. That journey is what sparked me to start sharing more of my breastfeeding experiences through social media so that other first-time moms would not feel as lost as I did as well. With Zion, I experienced extreme oversupply and this additional supply led to some problems with nursing. I would have to pump or express

SIParent.com | March 2022

before every feed to make sure that he wasn’t choking while he was eating. It sounded like such a great problem, but it was a stressful time for us in our journey. This led to him also developing a brass preference because one of my breasts had more of a slow type of flow for him to take down the milk and this caused me to have uneven breasts for the remainder of my journey. And I only fed off of that one breast up until the birth of Zuri. With Zuri, everything is so much easier and stress-free. Our journey has been beautiful from the start. We have not had any issues this time- I know what to look for and what to do and what not to do. What’s been different the second time around is that I am tandem nursing. Zion is starting to naturally self-wean and I feel like our journey might slowly start coming to an end with tandem nursing. We are taking it day by day and seeing where we go. He only does 1-2 feeds a day now and there have been days where he doesn’t even ask to nurse. So we’ll see where we end up. Can you share how tandem breastfeeding works? Us mothers are being touched often, how do you know if it is for you? With tandem nursing, you definitely can feel an overwhelming sense of being touched out. As you mentioned, we are constantly being touched as mothers, which can leave one feeling just massively overstimulated and wanting to be alone at the end of the day. Tandem nursing can bring these feelings more to the surface and if you feel like that is something that might not be good for your mental health it might not be for you. If you feel like this is something you want to experience, go ahead and try it out, see how you feel, I believe that you won’t know if you want to tandem nurse until you start to do it. I had a whole different idea of what tandem nursing would look like before I started and it was completely impractical. You see all these pretty pictures online of women

tandem nursing - you think it looks calm and beautiful. The reality of it is that it can be incredibly stressful, tiring on your body and your mental health. You are feeding two children from one body, which is a lot on top of the day-to-day of motherhood. Some women choose to feed two children with both latched on. However, you can also tandem nurse without ever latching on both your children at the same time. What has worked for me to not feel overstimulated is to nurse Zion and Zuri at different nursing sessions. I adopted my second child, and breastfeeding wasn’t in the cards for my son and me. What about the mothers who can’t or choose not to breastfeed? How can parents not feel left out when there is so much emphasis on breastfeeding? My heart does go out to women who strongly want to breastfeed and, unfortunately, are not able to. My mother was one of them. For those mothers who cannot experience this journey, I hope they find comfort and joy in establishing other types of bonds that they can through motherhood. There are countless ways to bond and connect and feel one with your child, and yes, breastfeeding is one of them, but it is one in a long list of many. I know that there is a feeling that breastfed is best at times, but I firmly believe that feeding is best and that whatever way you choose to nourish your child- what matters at the end of the day is that the child is healthy, growing and loved. Your family unit is tight; we all fell in love with your husband Tolu at the cover shoothow do you two keep your relationship so strong? My husband and I have known each other since we were 18, so we have grown up together- we have seen each other through so many changes and seasons in life that we truly have become best friends and life partners. Having kids only solidified our bond and we have grown closer in parenthood. The

Photo by Yumi Matsuo

days are long and hard, but we find solace in each other, at the end of the night, we make sure to tap in and check in with one another. It’s little things here and there that we do for you throughout the days just to remind one another that we care. My Husband is truly unique and I would not be able to do half of the things I’m able to do if it weren’t for him. It is about us always making sure we have each other‘s back and the beauty in this is it unifies you in a special way. One of the main

things that keep us strong is our faith - that right there is the foundation to it all. You share on your platform the unsolicited advice & toxic comments as a new mom. How do you deal with these comments? Do you have a bit of a thicker skin with baby #2? As a first-time mom comments like this got to me. And I took them all to heart, and as a result, I was always affected by things that I heard being said to me. But as you grow

into yourself as a mother, you learn to push things aside that you don’t need to hear. This is what I do. I keep moving. Someone can tell me whatever they want, give me (unsolicited ) advice they think I need to hear but I keep moving forward. I think this comes with time, as a mother as you feel more seasoned and comfortable in your role. Being a mom of two, you definitely can’t tell me anything right now that I don’t want to hear cause I’m just not having it! March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

calendar Things to do in March

Spring Bird Walk

inter is in full swing, and there’s plenty of fun activities planned throughout the borough! Here are some of this month’s most exciting events in Staten Island and nearby. Be sure to call ahead or visit event websites to confirm details and COVID precautions. Go to siparent.com/events for details on the events listed here and even more stuff to do with your family throughout the month!

Tavern Concerts Saturdays through April 2 Two shows: 6 and 8 pm

SIParent.com | March 2022

Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave.

This indoor winter concert series will take place in the newly restored Guyon Tavern. The tavern boasts a wood-burning stove, flickering candles, live music and the feel of a 19th century saloon. Tot Time Tuesdays Tuesdays in March 10-11:30am Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve, 2351 Veterans Rd. West

Explore a different nature theme each week during this indoor

free play group. A guided story time begins at 10:30am, followed by a short hike at 11am, weather permitting.

Stroller Tour Thursday, March 3 10am-11:15am Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway

Tap Dance Workshop for Kids Wednesday, March 2, 6:308pm; Saturday, March 5, 12:30-2pm Greenbelt Recreation Center, 501 Brielle Ave.

Enjoy an interactive, strollerfriendly tour for the youngest museum-goers and their caregivers.

Join the Parks Dept. for a series of free tap dance workshops for ages 12-17 in partnership with New York City Center. All levels welcome. You don’t need tap shoes, sneakers will do!

Gluten-Free Sugar Cookie Canvases Saturday, March 5 1-3pm

Faber Park, 2175 Richmond Terr. Head to this fun class to learn how to make edible art, hosted by Noelle Casella.

March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

calendar

March

“Scenes from the Staten Island Ferry” 2022 March 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13; multiple showtimes.

New Dorp Moravian Church Theatre, 2205 Richmond Rd. Enjoy a presentation of new and original plays that are set on the Staten Island Ferries, coinciding with Sundog Theatre’s 20th year. NYC Compost Project Saturday, March 5 9:30-10:30am Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, 1000 Richmond Terr.

Ever been curious about composting? Join the NYC Compost Project hosted by Snug Harbor for a tour of the compost demo site. Discover how compost is made across NYC, see different compost systems and learn more about turning compost into an environmental resource.

Tot Time Tuesday

Children’s Cooking Class Tuesday, March 8 4-5pm

Bring a flashlight if you have one. Registration required.

Italian Cultural Foundation at Casa Belvedere, 79 Howard Ave. Learn how to make Lucky Charms cereal crispy treats.

Staten Island Jazz Festival 33 Saturday, March 12 5pm St. George Theatre, 35 Hyatt St.

Navigating Naturalists for Homeschoolers Thursday, March 10 10am-12pm

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve, 2351 Veterans Rd. West This program is geared toward homeschoolers ages 8-13. Hunt for treasures and learn to navigate Clay Pit Ponds’ trails using various types of maps. Includes a 1-mile hike. Registration required.

A celebration of the life of Sajda Musawwir Ladner, founder of the Universal Temple of the Arts. Virtually Game On! Wednesday, March 16 4-4:45pm Online

SIParent.com | March 2022

and gardens. Look for witch hazel, snow drops, crocus and possibly skunk cabbage.

Signs of Spring Walk Thursday, March 17 and Saturday, March 19 1-2:30pm

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve, 2351 Veterans Rd. West Experience the spring migration of song birds and waterfowl along the Atlantic Flyway at Clay Pit Ponds. Bring binoculars if you have them. Participants will hike up to 2 miles. Registration required.

Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, 1000 Richmond Terr. Bring your camera to capture the first glimpses of spring. Explore Snug Harbor’s forest, wetlands

Spring Bird Walk Saturday, March 19 8-9:30am

Wizard of Oz SensoryFriendly Show Sunday, March 20 1pm

Frogwatch Night Hike Saturday, March 12 6-7pm Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve, 2351 Veterans Rd. West

Frogs and toads are an important part of wetland ecosystems. Join in this community science project to monitor the frogs in Clay Pit Ponds. Participants will walk up to 1-mile in the dark.

Join the Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library for an hour of virtual fun with virtual telephone and other fun online games. Recommended for teens ages 13-17. Registration required.

Wizard of Oz

St. George Theatre, 35 Hyatt St. Join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, the Cowardly Lion and Toto as they travel the universe of Dorothy’s imagination. The show is presented in a friendly, supportive environment for children and adults who are diagnosed with intellectual developmental disabilities (I/ DD) or on the autism spectrum, and their families and friends.

March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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FREE KIDS MEAL at WENDY’S (Staten Island only) 300 Bay St, 10301 | 1761 Forest Ave, 10303 1661 Hylan Blvd, 10305 | 6420 Amboy Rd, 10309 25 Putnam St, 10312 | 26 Richmond Hill Rd, 10314 MARCH 1 Isabella La Greca John Marfoglio Angelina Rose Frascona Lucca Ulitto Carter Smalls Jaiden Castillo Autumn Carletto Amber Sanchez MARCH 2 Angeliah Negron Giordana Florio Marcus Payet Breanna Body Kristina Chu Chelsy Midy Kristina Chu Madison Peragine Vincent Cassieri Giordana Florio MARCH 3 Keil Ortiz Jr. Antoinette Chow Josiah Montantine Christopher Allegretti Aiden Reese Josiah Montantine Gabriella Chicchetti Matthew Moseychuk Matthew Cintron Christopher Allegretti Georgia Rose Correll MARCH 4 Samantha Smith Billy Jernigan, Jr. Isaiah Pizarro Hiba Ahmed McKenna Whitney Zachary Kizer Christopher Bradshaw MARCH 5 Christopher Redmond Kellie Betances Lena Lane Eddie Kraus Madison Terzo Jonah Hecht MARCH 6 Amanda Rose Davies Timothy Aust Kayla Mulvey Kaitlyn Alavarces Shannon Delaney

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FREE $5 BONUS PLAY & 250 TICKETS at iPLAY AMERICA 110 Schanck Road • Freehold, NJ 07728-2938 732-577-8200 Riley Breen Christian Spinelli Casey Jo Velasco Leslie Salas Juliet McKenna Noah Aviles MARCH 12 Georgia Rose Correll Matthew Cocozello Vincent LaBella Liana Bowman Taylor Marie Billera Jonathan Crockett Harper Omholt Isabella Pilzer Gwen Ruffino Chace Ruffino Arlind Zhabjaku Giada Rosa Scarlett Mercado Evelyn Cisneros Giada Rosa Georgia Rose Correll MARCH 13 Naveen Abdepuiahab Gabrielle Iacono Catherine Farley Cameron Bracker Evie Spinelli Julianna Triano Gabriella Triano MARCH 14 Camryn Vitale Madilyn Dolce Joshua Elias Lyla Atlas Riviera Marie Occhipinti Gabriella Juliette Alonso Sydney Cilente Avery Shearin Angel Ripalda Nayeli Collazo MARCH 15 John Lopez Jodi Walters Ciara Dove Ryan Villamagna Joseph Ditre Ryan Villamagna Justin Assante Ava Aragona Andrew Giampietro

MARCH 16 Anna Kalil Samantha Weisselberg Isabella Marie Ramos Ethan Gorinshteyn Justin Vargas Breanna Rice Juan Hernandez Nicaletta Zumbo Julian Gilberti Melania Ruggiero Santiago Quintero MARCH 17 Patrick Cashin Santana Fonseca Jacklyn Pellegrino Shane Santomassino Nicole Marolla Malachi Moore Kiana Hernandez Sean Costa Isaiah Roland Patrick Cashin Luca Grimaldi Mishal Chugtai John Carbonaro Hadley Gomez Isaiah Roland MARCH 18 Samantha Troia Meleena Troia Chianne Montgomery Brianny Montanez Madison Rivera Danielle Parisi Isabella Rose Alba Liam Reese Tiffanee Gentner Serena George Isabella Sanabria Symphani Caesar MARCH 19 Andreas Romero Ryan Gould Eugene Gregoretti Isabella Moreira Thomas Patrick Moane Gabriella Grinberg Daniella Cordova Usha Lingala Madison Catalano Ava Lynn Correa Sophia Mallette Cassandra Mai

Skylen Rivera Jenny Ortiz MARCH 20 Matthew Piccione David Kurbalidze Zack Douhour Kaylie Portaro Ivanna Elkik John Santora Ronald Gasparik Vincent Charles Villarreal Gaspare Randazzo MARCH 21 Christina Nicole Fallon Jamie Pugliese Lauren Marino Kaylie Portaro Frank Paoli Mallory Colon Jeffrey Huhem Gerard Apoe Henry Whitford Norah Quinones MARCH 22 Lauren Pilatsky Veronika Hirsch Vincent Grillo Lucas Velasquez Karinna Marie Ramos Marianna Finn Romina Greco Amira Vailes Cassie Mai Leo Wong Serenity Hanley Hunter Crimmins Aiden Maisonet MARCH 23 Anthony Santoro Marissa Mauro Anthony D’Alessandro Angela Dinkle Briaca Gosk Brian Edward Donges Kayleigh Echavarria James Olsen Anthony Tesi Michael Wilson Jr. Julianna Masoni Mia Ramos MARCH 24 Mark Stroud

Haley Ferri Victoria Roca Jessica Pavia Joseph Ferrandino Jamir McNab Maliyah McNab Carmela Maggio Steven Snyder Ava Raschella Jordan Koffler MARCH 25 Emily Enriquez Vinessa Vasquez Nikita Kasmauskas Nicholas Appugliese Nicholas Lombardi Staci Stabile Jake Bozzo Thomas Hughes Mason Perrone MARCH 26 Jessica Agu Joseph Devito Darby De Sapio Jayden Luke Alexandria Sicari Robert Goldstein Alexis Fox Kurtis-Joseph Duncan Ava Lynn Wepy Matthew Dominguez Jackson Stefanski Sofia Rise Mia Torres MARCH 27 Henson Cho Gianna Colon Julian Chapman Gianna Colon Peter Anthony Mazzoli Gianna Colon Esosa Oghayore Nota Lemberg Riley Kelly MARCH 28 Ryan Falco Anthony Naselli Maria Tirado Natalie Bland Allison DiMare Ava Beck Charlotte Morrelli

Please present this page. Good only for birthday club members on this list. Offer valid for the month. Call before to check availabilty.

MARCH 29 Adrian Rosales Alexandria Rodriguez Kayla Callahan Khamani Clapp Joseph Orlando Bryonna Pearson Dante DiPietro Sebastian Lopez Reginald Jordan Olissa Rijo Francesco Citera Nicholas Joseph Serenity Smith MARCH 30 Antonio Brittain Jackie Rocchio Nicholas Pizzo Brian Badalamenti Anthony Siminson Jr. Jessica Orihara John Santomassino Anthony Siminson Jr. Brian Badalamenti Brandon Perrotta Dylan Marin Kai Williams MARCH 31 Gloria Danza Hailey Kohler Birttany Blacknall Paige Marie Campanelli Meaghan Harris Michael Pira Egidio Fioribello Matthew Mascetta Kimora Pratt Lucas Lago

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March 2022 | Staten Island Parent

Spotlight

Tough Cookies Staten Island kids with special needs succeed with Girl Scouts cookie program By Barbara Russo

hin Mints. Lemon-Ups. Do-Si-Dos. When you buy Girl Scouts cookies, you’re not only getting a sweet treat, but giving back to a good cause. There’s a Girl Scouts cookie program on Staten Island that not only supports the organization’s overall mission, but young girls who have special needs. Girl Scouts Troops 5227 and 5312, based out of the Bernikow JCC of Staten Island and P37R, Great Kills, respectively, began their annual cookie sales in January. Scouts in both troops have special needs and disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and other conditions. Many of these scouts, ages 5 to 21, are nonverbal. Some have difficulty communicating for a variety of reasons, and some have limited mobility. Despite their challenges, the troops have sold—to date—an impressive 12,000 boxes of cookies and counting. At $5-6 per box, that’s a lot of cookie dough to be proud of. Cookies are sold online, but also in per0son. The scouts based at P37R, a NYC School District 75 school for children with special needs where scout leader Lisa Rosenfeld works, have been selling their cookies in school while honing their sales skills. “My principal allowed the girls to go around from classroom to classroom,” says Lisa, a Huguenot resident. “In the beginning it was difficult for them to sell and kept looking at me for guidance on what to say. Some of the girls are nonverbal, but use a device that can say ‘buy cookies please.’ Those three words made these girls big cookie sellers. And then the other girls just followed.” Sort of like a chain of confidence that followed one scout to the next. Much of the credit of the troops’ success goes to Lisa,

SIParent.com | March 2022

who founded Troop 5312 20 years ago, and two years later, Troop 5227. At the time, the community did not have a troop for girls with special needs. “I felt that the girls in my school deserved to be part of something that every other little girl could be part of,” says Lisa. “They needed a troop to call their own and to be proud to wear that Girls Scouts vest.” Both local troops are open to girls of all abilities and offer opportunities participants might not have elsewhere. Several members of the troops travel to Staten Island from the Bronx, Manhattan, and Brooklyn to participate. In addition, the troops allow children with disabilities to participate and make memories with their siblings. “Without our Girl Scout troops, many of these sisters would not have the chance to participate in an extracurricular activity together,” says Lisa. Proceeds from cookie sales help cut the

participation costs for the two troops. For all members of Troops 5227 and 5312, this is an opportunity not only to raise money for their troops but also to develop valuable communication, social and life skills. “We are so proud of our Girl Scouts troop for being a safe space for girls of all abilities to grow and have fun together,” says Orit Lender, CEO of the JCC of Staten Island. “We hope you’ll support our hardworking Girl Scouts by buying a box of cookies.” The troops have two upcoming events where they’ll be selling the cookies in person: The JCC of Staten Island, 1466 Manor Rd., on Sunday, March 13, 1-3pm P37R, 15 Fairfield St., on Friday, March 18, 12-2pm Cookies can also be purchased from Troop 5227 at digitalcookie.girlscouts.org/ scout/troop75227-161 and Troop 5312 at https://digitalcookie.girlscouts.org/scout/ troop75312-161.

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Meet with day & sleepaway camps in a safe environment to ﬁnd a great camp for your child.

2022 CAMP FAIR SCHEDULE:

Saturday, March 5th in Westchester at Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club Sunday, March 6th in Downtown Manhattan at The 14 Street Y Sunday, March 13th in the West Side, Manhattan at Congregation Rodeph Shalom Saturday, March 19th in the East Side, Manhattan at St. Jean Baptiste High School Sunday, March 20th in Cobble Hill Brooklyn at Kane Street Synagogue Saturday, March 26th in Long Island City Queens at The Plaxall Gallery Sunday, March 27th in Park Slope Brooklyn at Congregation Beth Elohim Sponsored by Blue Man Group

One family will win 4 tickets to see the Blue Man Group!

(Must be present to win)

To RSVP and ﬁnd out more please visit: www.newyorkfamily.com/campfairs or email: summer@newyorkfamily.com

All events are indoors, to attend the camp fair you must be fully vaccinated and wear a mask while inside at all times.

FUN is our

tradition!

75 wooded acres at Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds (1131 Manor Road) 3 Olympic sized swimming pools Marvin's Camp for Children with Special Needs and inclusion program on site Sports & specialty camps also available Licensed by NYC Department of Health & accredited by the American Camping Association

Space Space is is limited, limited, reserve reserve now! now!

Camp.SIJCC.org