Staten Island Parent - April 2022

april 2022

siparent.com

Safety First NYPD Detective offers practical advice to parents

Tough Talks

How to discuss the war with your kids

+ Fun April Events!

P.S.56

Strong

Remembering Principal Carollo

Special needs Resources for families

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April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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contents

April 2022 SIParent.com

pg. 44

pg. 34 pg. 18

pg. 42

FEATURES

Stories & columns

18 | Special Needs How to support your child who stutters

6 | Editor’s Note

20 | Special Needs Helpful special needs glossary

10 | Ask the Expert Talking to kids about the war in Ukraine and other tough topics

38 | Travel Paris getaway for a mom trip or adventure with the family 42 | Mikaela Pabon Shares on family, design and the joy of beautiful colors and patterns

siparent.com | April 2022

Family fun 44 | Calendar Family-friendly events this month

8 | Community and School News

14 | Ask the Expert NYPD detective shares tips he uses to keep his family safe

Directories 24 | Special Needs Listings

30 | Spotlight- Local Hero April 29 designated “P.S. 56 Strong Day” in honor of adored late principal 34 | Mom Hacks How to ace eco-friendly thrift shopping

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pg. 38

on the Cover Photo: Getty Images

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Editor’s Note

Springing into April

I

love the smell of freshly-cut grass, but I hate the constant noisy hum of the lawnmower.

Such is life, right? With the good comes the bad. We love the excitement of early spring, knowing the summer sun is not far away, but we have to weather a few cold and rainy days before we get there. I hope you have a good umbrella!

Unfortunately, there is nothing good about what is happening in Ukraine right now. The images of the damage and devastation are heartbreaking. Your kids probably have some tough questions about the war, so we’re sharing expert advice on discussing difficult subjects with them (page 10). We also spoke with an NYPD detective for advice on keeping your children safe in school and elsewhere – flip to page 14 to read his tips.

Our April issue is always dedicated to Special Needs Awareness. I am not a special needs parent, but I know many parents with wonderful children who are differently abled. As our society continues to evolve in our understanding of the varying needs of children, I want to always stay as wellinformed as possible, and be empathetic to the struggles felt by families with children who have developmental disorders and other special needs. Our glossary (page 20) is sure to be helpful for these families, but it will also serve as a useful aid for parents of neurotypical children like myself, so that we can help maintain a universal awareness, not just in the month of April, but all year long.

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 Marketing Assistant: Tilejah Gilead Art Director: Leah Mitch Web Developer: Sylvan Migdal

Be sure to peruse the whole section for other great resources and information.

As always, you’ll find lots to do with your family this month in and around Staten Island in this issue and online at siparent. com. If you’re not already subscribed, go to siparent.com/signup to start getting our newsletters so you never miss a thing!

Happy April!

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get in touch Comments? Questions? Suggestions? Email Jeannine at jcintron@siparent.com Get news, tips and humor all month long: siparent.com/signup

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April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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Community News

What’s Happening

on Staten Island

NYC Mayor Commissions New Sandy Ground Ferry All aboard! New York City Mayor Eric Adams commissioned the Sandy Ground, a new Staten Island Ferry named for New York’s first free Black community. Located on Staten Island’s South Shore, the community was settled in 1828 and served as a stop on the historic Underground Railroad. The Sandy Ground is the first Staten Island Ferry boat named to honor the history of Black New Yorkers living on Staten Island.

“I am honored to commission a new Staten Island Ferry named for a community of New Yorkers who represent the best of our city and our country,” Adams said. “The settlers of Sandy Ground were our ancestors, and they worked hard to build a vibrant community that became a safe haven for so many seeking freedom. This boat will forever be a testament to them, their legacy, and their contributions to the New York City we live in today.”

The Sandy Ground, an $85 million, 4,500-person boat, is the second of three new ferries that will enter service this year. The boats are collectively known as the Ollisclass vessels. The new ferries are larger, more modern, and better equipped for extreme

weather than the existing fleet, according to a NYC press release. They will feature popular design elements of past Staten Island ferries, phone charging outlets, and comfortable seating, as well as an oval upper-deck promenade that will, for the first time, serve as an outdoor “walking track” for riders.

The Sandy Ground is expected to be in service this spring, according to the mayor’s office. The first boat in the class, the Staff Sergeant Michael H. Ollis, took its inaugural ride in February. The final Ollis-class ferry is expected to be commissioned later this year.

Sandy Ground’s history as a free Black community dates back nearly 200 years to 1828, when ferry boat operator Captain John Jackson became the first Black person to own property on Staten Island, buying in what is now the South Shore community of Rossville. Over time, Sandy Ground was settled by Black oystermen who fled Maryland’s more restrictive laws. New York’s booming oyster trade allowed residents there to own their own property, boats, and businesses.

Freshkills Park Alliance Hosts Volunteer Projects The Freshkills Park Alliance announced new volunteer opportunities running now through November. The organization is working with schools and community organizations to offer the projects, which take place in a variety of areas around the Travis-based park, including Schmul Park, the New Springville Greenway, the Freshkills Studio and Gallery, the Visitors Center and the Kayak Launch.

Available service projects include planting and maintaining a biodiversity garden, wetland and stream clean-up, invasive species removal, painting and repairs, fundraisers, and tabling and event support.

Volunteer opportunities are typically available for children ages 10 and older. Groups of younger children when accompanied by adults may be considered on a case-by-case basis, the organization said.

Credit for school service hours is available. For more information, contact education@freshkillspark.org.

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siparent.com | April 2022

New Charleston Library Opens on Staten Island

By Barbara Russo

C

alling all bookworms! The New York Public Library (NYPL) opened the brand-new Charleston Library today on the South Shore, and it’s a must-see for Staten Islanders of all ages!

Voracious readers will love the extensive book collection, which features approximately 20,000 covers. But there’s more to check out here than just great reads. The 10,000-square-foot library boasts computers, a children’s room, a teen room with lounge space, on-site programs and more for the community to enjoy.

“The opening of the Charleston Library symbolizes an important moment in the history of the New York Public Library and the city we serve—representing a time of growth and renewal after extraordinary challenges,” Anthony W. Marx, president of the NYPL, said.

“Libraries are singularly equipped to provide New York City’s communities with spaces that foster connection and collaboration.”

Construction of the Library Groundbreaking for the $17 million library was in 2019, but construction was stalled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The project, which was managed by the New York Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) with Gilbane Building Company and designed by Ikon 5 Architects, is LEED Gold, and is the first net zero/net positive library in the city, making the building environmentally friendly. It’s energy efficient, according to NYPL, with solar panels providing nearly 100% of the building’s energy.

Situated in the bustling Bricktown Commons shopping center, the library is a result of advocacy from the community. The NYPL solicited feedback from residents to identify amenities and services most needed in the neighborhood.

“When you think about it, there’s nothing more democratic in the world than a public library,” Vito Fossella, Staten Island borough president, said. “Anybody of any means, of any race, of any gender, can walk through the doors of the New York Public Library and be exposed to that repository of preserved knowledge where you can learn, discover, explore and then go out and build based on what you just absorbed.”

The Charleston Library is the 14th NYPL branch to open in the borough. The last branch to open was in Mariners Harbor in 2013.

“Having spent nearly a decade at NYPL early in my career, I know firsthand the power of branch libraries as a community anchor.

As we recover from the pandemic and drive the economic recovery, the educational and small business resources available at your local branch are more important than ever,” said NYCEDC President and CEO Andrew Kimball.

What to Expect at the Library There’s lots to see and do at the Charleston Library. Here’s a look at some of the library’s top features: Community Connection: Flexible community spaces for programs such as Little Movers Storytime, Infant Lapsit, book discussions, technology workshops Cozy Comforts: A special “branch chair” from furniture maker Thos. Moser, a Maine-based company. The chairs were built to be reminiscent of the special chairs that architects Carrère and Hastings designed for the 42nd Street library in 1907, still in use at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building Children’s Room: Features a story-time area, stroller parking, computers and a bathroom Teen Room: Features computers and lounge space Adult Reading Room: Has lots of

!

computers and views of Fairview Park Entry Plaza: Features bench seating Art lovers will enjoy the library’s permanent artwork by artist, Mark Reigelmän, commissioned by the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs’ Percent for Art Program. The piece, “Curiouser,” is inspired by literature and consists of a collection of objects capturing the essence of important literary items and stories. The small metal sculptures, ranging from keys to cats, are installed on the interior and exterior of the building where they can be discovered by library visitors of all ages.

As if these features aren’t incentive enough to spark a visit, the NYPL, along with the Brooklyn Public Library and Queens Library, announced last year they will no longer charge late fees for overdue books and other circulating materials.

Visiting The Charleston Library The Charleston Library is located at 225 Bricktown Way in Staten Island. The Library is open Monday-Thursday, 10am-7pm; Friday-Saturday, 10am-5pm and is free to use.

Jennifer Giordano is the branch manager.

Allison De Luca and Liz Lipari are the children’s librarians. For more information about the Charleston Library, visit nypl.org.

Important Public School Dates April 15-22: Spring Recess. This includes Good Friday and Passover.

April 26-28: Grades 3 to 8 math assessment administration.

April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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ask the expert

Talking to Kids about the War in Ukraine and other difficult topics

By Courtney Ingalls

A

s we continue to watch the conflict in Ukraine unfold, kids are also starting to hear more and more about what is going on with the war. Difficult world events such as this one can be hard for kids to understand and it could be a scary topic for them.

Whether your child comes to you asking questions about the current conflict or you want to have a discussion but not sure how to tackle it, we sat down with Andrea Barbalich, Editor in Chief of The Week Junior to talk about tips and strategies for talking to your kids about Ukraine and other future difficult topics.

With everything going on in Ukraine, Why is it important to talk to your kids about world events?

Children count on adults to help them make sense of events and feel safe when frightening events are happening, and the war in Ukraine is a global event receiving a massive amount of media coverage.

Nothing quite like this has happened since World War II and certainly not in the lifetime of young children who are growing up now. All but the very youngest children are aware that it’s happening, it’s being discussed in homes, and at school and among friends, it’s on TikTok, so it is very much a topic for a family conversation.

It’s a complicated situation even for adults to understand so kids may be confused, worried or frightened and they need trusted adults that they feel they can go to and who will tell them the truth.

How would you go about talking about world events that could be scary for kids to think about?

Our approach at The Week Junior is to tell the truth calmly and straightforwardly without

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providing more detail than is appropriate for their maturity level. This depends on the child and parents know their kids best.

Different children respond differently to different information. At The Week Junior, we focus on ages 8-14 and some of the children on the older end may have a more sophisticated understanding of what’s happening, and may be able to handle more details.

While for younger children, it may be sufficient to understand that there is fighting between these two countries, people around the world are calling for peace and standing with Ukraine and governments and humanitarian organizations and individuals are providing help for the people of Ukraine.

What are some tips that parents should keep in mind when talking to your kids about these difficult topics?

First and foremost I would say tell the truth simply and clearly, again without providing more details than is appropriate for the child’s maturity level. I think it’s really important to open a dialogue with children to ask them what they think.

They may come to you with questions or you may initiate a conversation with them and ask them what they think about what’s happening. Giving them a chance to share their thoughts helps them feel empowered and letting them know that you’re there to listen is very reassuring to them, and as your children grow up, you want to keep that line of commu-

nication open so they can come to you when they have questions or they’re concerned about something.

Also if they are worried about something that is inaccurate, you’ll have a chance to correct it. Oftentimes children will think something is happening and get incorrect information that will actually cause them to be more worried, and being able to talk it out with a trusted adult can help actually lower their anxiety level rather than increasing it.

A couple other suggestions I have are to emphasize the helpers. There are people around the world standing with Ukraine who want this war to end. There are governments and nonprofit groups and even people in Ukraine and at the border of Ukraine who are doing everything they can to help the people of Ukraine.

The governments are doing what they can to put pressure on Russia to stop the fighting.

One thing we like to say at The Week Junior is there are always more people that help than people who hurt and that’s an important message to send to kids is that there are all these people who feel the same way they do, that they really do not want this war to be happening.

The other thing I would say is that a conversation like this is opportunity to reinforce your family’s values. You can say “I’m concerned for the people in Ukraine”, “I’m concerned for the people in the military and other people who are fighting”, “I’m concerned for the people in Russia who do not want this war”, and “our family hopes for peace”. That

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ask the Expert

is a way to make the child safe within your family and that this is something that you are concerned about as a family.

Something else I would say is try to keep up with the news yourself as much as you can and feel comfortable with so when your child does have questions you will be able to answer them. At the same time, it’s okay to say I don’t know. There are a lot of things that nobody knows right now. Nobody knows when the fighting will stop, nobody knows exactly what Russia plans to do so it’s ok to say “I don’t know that right now, no one does but we might know more next week, we might know later this week” and things like that.

Another suggestion that I would have: just as people around the world are helping, kids can help as well. That can give kids a real sense of agency and generation alpha (which is the generation of children with The Week Junior) they are a very passionate and caring generation of children who really want to make a difference in the world and they want to speak up about the things they care about, and they want to take action.

So talking to them about things they per-

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Giving children a chance to share their thoughts helps them feel empowered and letting them know that you’re there to listen is very reassuring to them. sonally can do to reach out to others can help them feel more in control and less anxious and more reassured, and it’s a great feeling for them to know they are doing something in the face of something so difficult.

Are there areas of conversation or information that parents should steer clear of during these discussions?

I would advise not going into great detail about violence and deaths. I think that can be very frightening, however if a child asks directly “have people died in this war?” I would tell the truth and say yes some Ukrainians have died and Russians have died as well unfortunately and I would just be truthful. It’s just really important, especially when asked a direct question, to tell the truth.

Are there certain resources that parents

should go to to prepare for these kinds of difficult talks?

I can’t resist telling you about our online information hub that we’ve created just in the past several days to put all of our information about Ukraine all in one spot. It’s available to everyone at theweekjunior.com/ukraine, and we have advice on talking to kids, we have our two news stories from the past week that very clearly explain what’s happening so that if parents are looking for language to use or word choice, or just how to explain the history between the two countries and why this may be happening and what the real world reaction has been and how are people helping.

There are some very clearly written articles that are posted on that page that parents could consult. We also have all of our suggestions on how kids can make a difference and how they can get involved.

Join us on campus to learn about Staten Island Academy and Summer Day Camp.

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.

April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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Safety First!

NYPD Detective shares tips he uses to keep his family safe

By Jeannine Cintron

“M

om, can you come pick me up?

Everyone is talking about gun threats in school today. I’m really nervous.

Please come get me!”

This is the jarring text I received from my 13-year-old son back on Dec. 17. Like many other kids that day, he was shaken by rumors of “National Shoot Up Your School Day,” a morbid “challenge” many claim to have started on TikTok. While the challenge itself turned out to be a hoax, the threat of gun violence in schools is very real.

After one and a half torturous years of remote learning, I thought I’d be more excited to have the kids back in school full time. But between the increasing violence in schools and my ongoing love affair with

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true crime documentaries, I’m not far from locking them in their rooms forever – which is not recommended if you don’t want to end up the subject of a true crime documentary.

As a parent, there simply seems to be no limit to my anxieties involving the safety of my children. It starts the moment they head to school and subsides only once they are home safely with me.

I spoke to recently retired NYPD Detective and father of three Dominick La Torre in search of some advice on keeping kids safe in a world where it seems evil lurks around every corner. He shared the following tips, all of which he uses to keep his own family safe.

Start Safety Practices Early.

Det. La Torre says parents shouldn’t wait

until their kids are in school to implement safety practices, citing the importance of preparing them for a time when mom and dad aren’t always around. “When my kids were very little, I made up a simple but catchy tune that incorporated our address,” he said. “We sang it together every day: ‘I live at ______ Court, Staten Island, New York!’ We also sang our phone number together—area code included, of course.”

Everyone Needs An ID. La Torre also suggests parents create identification cards, preferably laminated, to keep in their child’s backpack and/or jacket at all times. “Try to update the cards with a new photo every six months so that you have the most recent image of your child to share with police in the event of an emergency,” he explains.

You can also get an official ID card for your child through the Operation SAFECHILD program, a free public service that provides you with a card containing your child’s name, biographical information (date of birth, gender, height, weight, hair and eye color, and other identifying data), and a fingerprint image of both index fingers. It serves a dual purpose when used in conjunction with the NYS AMBER Alert and Missing Child Alert programs. It “allows

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Safety

essential missing child information to be disseminated, statewide if necessary, within minutes and dramatically increases the possibility of bringing a missing child home,” according to nysheriffs.org. For information on how to obtain a SAFE CHILD Card for your child or to host an event in your community, contact the Community Affairs Officer at your local precinct.

Role Play Helps.

It might seem silly to some, but role play is an invaluable tool for teaching children — old and young— how to manage certain situations. La Torre recommends parents envision various scenarios and demonstrate to their children how each should be handled.

“I tell my kids not to be afraid to make a scene if a stranger ever approaches them.

The louder they are, the better,” he cautions.

“They know to run as fast as they can into a store, a school, a bank, a police station.

Anywhere they can be seen on camera is good. We routinely go over a list of safe places to go if they are in danger or lost.”

Another scenario — perhaps the most worrisome of all — is that of an active shooter in school. Unlike “stranger danger,” this is not the time to make a spectacle and attract attention. La Torre says it’s important for students to remain as quiet as possible, move out of sight, and follow their teacher’s directions carefully.

Parents can register with Notify NYC to receive information about emergency events. Schools train and drill all staff and students in the General Response Protocol, which describes what to do in an evacuation, shelter-in, or lockdown, according to the New York City Department of Education. The training is tailored for different grade levels so that it’s age-appropriate and not scary or upsetting.

Have Regular Chats With Your Kids.

Consistency is one of the most important things to keep in mind when going over safety practices with your family, according to La Torre. “Don’t just talk and assume that they’re listening. Have them repeat your words back to you. Despite your best attempts to make it interesting, eventually your kids will be tired of discussing what to do in dangerous situations. But don’t get discouraged because those discussions might save their lives one day,” La Torre urges.

Track Them.

Most older kids have cell phones, which

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“Keep the dialogue with your children as open as possible, and never shame them for being afraid or nervous.

Teach them to trust their gut." makes keeping track of their whereabouts easy with an app you can download to your phones, such as Life 360 or Google Maps. But what if your child is too young for a phone, or like my son, has a phone but forgets it at home every other day?

La Torre recommends using a GPS tracking device like the LandAirSea 54 Tracker, the Jiobit or the Lil Tracker 2G Kids’ GPS Tracker Watch. These devices can be sewn into the lining on your child’s coat, clipped onto a backpack, or even worn on the wrist. A subscription is usually required, but it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind in knowing your child’s exact location at all times.

Do Your Research.

Did you know you can easily find out if you live near a registered sex offender by searching a public online directory? The New York State Sex Offender Registry contains a variety of information about registered sex offenders, including photos, names and aliases, home and/or work addresses, and convictions that required registration.

This information is readily available at criminaljustice.ny.gov, where you can also get information on missing persons and crime statistics in your area.

Trust No One. Unfortunately, nearly 75 percent of abductions are executed by someone known by the victim. La Torre advises parents to routinely remind their children not to trust or go with anyone without permission. “My kids and I have a secret code word we use if they are in danger. If they are approached by a family friend, neighbor, or even a relative, they should use caution. If this person can tell them the code word, they will know they are safe with this person. It’s sad, but it’s the world we live in and it’s better to be safe than sorry.”

Maintain An Open Dialogue.

“It’s crucial that your children feel comfortable coming to you with any concerns or problems they’re having,” La Torre says.

Since so many abductions involve someone familiar to the victim, kids need to know they can talk to you when someone they know is acting strangely or inappropriately toward them. They should also feel safe coming to you if they hear talk of any threats in school, have knowledge of another student bringing dangerous weapons to school, or if anyone has threatened their well-being in any way.

“Keep the dialogue with your children as open as possible, and never shame them for being afraid or nervous,” La Torre continued.

“Teach them to trust their gut. If something or someone seems off, they should come to you immediately.”

Monitor Phones And Internet Use. There are a million reasons to stay on top of your child’s social media, and steering clear of predators is at the very top of that list. Children (and parents, for that matter) should never share any personal information on the internet, a fact that needs to be repeated over and over again. Even the most careful of children can fall victim to illintentioned people online. La Torre strongly recommends Bark, a parental control app that monitors more than 30 of the most popular apps and social media platforms, including text messaging and email, for signs of digital dangers. Parents receive alerts on bullying, predators, sexual content, and more. If you don’t want to purchase an app, make sure you know all of their passwords and regularly check their internet history, pictures, text messages, and all social media accounts.

Talk To A Mental Health Professional.

This stuff is scary. Most of us never experienced school lockdowns and online predators in our own childhoods, so it can be difficult to relate to what our kids are dealing with today. If your child is feeling heightened stress or anxiety about their safety that isn’t due to any direct threats or emergencies, have them speak to a therapist or child psychologist about managing their fears.

“As parents, the most important thing we can do when we are worried about our kids is remain vigilant,” La Torre says. “If you worry whether you’re doing the right thing when it comes to your child’s safety, then you probably are. It’s the parents who worry that are getting it right.”

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April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

17

SPECIAL NEEDS

How to Support Your Child Who

Stutters What to look for — and how to listen

BY MIA SALAS

K

ids trip up on their words a lot, especially when they’re still learning how to talk. As parents, we worry about everything, so we’re bound to wonder if maybe there’s something else going on.

Stuttering is actually not too uncommon as you may think– 5% of young kids stutter and about 1% of all people do, which is 70 million people.

If you’re navigating a potential or diagnosed stutter in your child, we’re here to help. You probably have a million questions, so we caught up with Travis Robertson, VP of Programming at The Stuttering Association for the Young (SAY) to get your questions answered. Read on to learn about how you can best support your child through their speech journey.

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siparent.com | April 2022

What causes stuttering “Stuttering is a neurological difference in the way that people process speech,” says Robertson. More often than not, a stutter will reveal itself very early as kids are still developing their speech. Robertson explains how a common misconception is that stuttering is caused by trauma or nerves: “Those are things that can exacerbate a stutter perhaps or can bring to light a stutter, but the neurological challenge exists independently of that.” The only caveat being brain damage due to a physical head injury.

Stuttering is also not related to your capabilities as a parent. As parents, we know how easy it is to blame ourselves and to wonder what we could have done differently.

In the case of stuttering, it is not caused by anything you did as a parent. Your job

moving forward? To support your child as they navigate this challenge.

How parents can recognize stuttering So if stutters develop at a young age, how can parents recognize the difference between stuttering and typical kid-like mispronunciations? Robertson recommends seeking a diagnosis even if there’s a small concern, because stuttering can look very different from person to person. The SAY Stuttering 101 Guide outlines three generalized “types” of stutters: Sound repetitions: repeating one sound or syllable over and over again Sound prolongations: extending one sound for a long time Silent blocks: pauses between words, a complete stop in sound

If you recognize one or more of these in your child, or some variation of them, then you’ll likely want to see a specialist.

It’s important to note that a stutter does not indicate a learning disability. “People who stutter know what they want to say and are, more often than not, confident in what they want to say. It’s not necessarily a situation of forgetting your words. It’s just the process of creating the sound of the word that is in your mind,” explains Robertson.

How to get involved with your child’s speech pathology Especially if you have young kids, you’ll want to be involved with your child’s speech therapy sessions to some degree. What might this look like? Goal setting. “Families have options. Work with a speech pathologist to collaborate on what those goals are,” advises Robertson. “What do you want for your speech? Do you want to stop stuttering? Or be able to stutter confidently and help people understand exactly what is going on? Is it that you want to make a new friend? Is it that you want to answer questions in class without the fear of stuttering?”

The goal for a person who stutters does not have to be to stop stuttering altogether.

And for little ones around other kids in school or after-school programs, they may have other priorities that feel more urgent to them, such as raising their hand in class without feeling nervous about their stutter.

Encourage your child to think about these smaller successes, and work alongside your speech pathologist to set realistic, thoughtful goals.

How stuttering may impact your child emotionally It’s key that as a parent, you’re aware of what your child who stutters may be experiencing emotionally. “Below the surface there can be feelings of fear, anxiety, trauma, insecurity,” says Robertson, “There are a lot of things that I may be processing in my head: What are the words that I think I’m going to stutter on? Is there an alternative word I can use? Can you tell that I stutter? How is this going to affect the next interaction I have with you?” This is just an idea of what your child may be experiencing. Just as stuttering presents itself differently for everyone, it’s emotional impact will also be different.

It’s important to note that a slight or mild stutter doesn’t necessarily mean that your child is not experiencing insecurity or doubt. Vice versa, Robertson explains: “If

“People who stutter know what they want to say and are, more often than not, confident in what they want to say.

It’s not necessarily a situation of forgetting your words. It’s just the process of creating the sound of the word that is in your mind.”

I’m a person who has a very strong stutter, that does not necessarily mean that I’m emotionally in a bad place. I may be very confident, secure, and comfortable in the experience that I’m having.” As parents, we have to try our best not to assume. Read on to learn how to talk to your kiddos about what they may be thinking and feeling.

How to best support your child after a stuttering diagnosis “One of the most important things is just to be able to talk about it,” insists Robertson.

The only way to find out what your child is experiencing on the inside is to talk and listen. “Often times, there can be a hesitation to mention the thing or talk about things that are hard, sometimes in hopes that they will go away, or as not to draw more attention to them. It’s important to be able to make space to have the conversation and to make it a collaboration with your child,” says Robertson.

Talking about the stutter may be difficult at first for both you and your child, but it creates a strong emotional support system moving forward.

If your child does not seem to want to talk about it at first, don’t be discouraged.

Their speech progression journey will take

time, and at some point during that time, your child will lean on you because they’ll know you’re there to support them. Ask your child how they felt after their speech pathology sessions, discuss any nerves they may have before heading to school for the day, and check-in with them to see how they feel about their speech progression.

Now, of course their stutter shouldn’t be the only thing you talk about, because you don’t want your child to feel as if they are defined by it. But just let them know that you are open to conversation whenever they are, and that there is nothing wrong with them.

“I think it’s important for young people and families to understand that stuttering is okay. It’s okay to be a confident and clear communicator, and still be a person who stutters,” says Robertson.

Tips for listening to your child Listening sounds like an easy concept, but it can be a lot harder than you think to be a good listener. “The most impactful thing that parents, families, teachers, and everyone in the community can do is to listen,” says Robertson.

There are a few things that you’ll want to refrain from doing when it comes to listening to your child who stutters. First, try not to finish their sentences. “It comes with the best intentions,” explains Robertson, “But that’s a form of not really making time and space for someone. If someone is trying to guess the word that I’m trying to say before I have the chance to communicate it, on some level it can read as a microaggression: I don’t have time to give you space to say what you have to say. It goes a really long way if you as a listener are able to just listen.”

Next, try not to use phrases such as “slow down” or “take a breath”. “Again, it comes with good intentions, but it’s much more of a complex experience than just taking a breath and slowing down. It goes much deeper than that,” says Robertson. It can be difficult, but do your best not to simplify stuttering with these phrases.

At the end of the day, being a good listener means being able to show that you are fully present. Make eye contact, use body language to show that you’re engaged, and be patient to allow your child to say what they want to say. Other children may not always give them the same time and space at school, so you’ll want to make sure that they have it at home.

Let your child know that their words matter, and they are worth waiting for!

April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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Special needS

SpEcial NEEDS Glossary Keywords that every special needs family should know

By Mia SalaS

P

art of navigating a special needs diagnosis is knowing the words used to describe it. But it can be intimidating to ask what everything means, especially when doctors or websites seem to be speaking another language with acronyms like “ERSS” and “OT”. We’ve all been in that confusing place before and, as parents, it’s not a fun feeling. That’s why, we’ve created a glossary for keywords that you may want to know as a parent of kids with special needs. This guide includes common special needs words, phrases, and acronyms so that you can feel more confident in your parenting journey!

Special Needs Diagnosis Developmental disability: Physical, learning, language, or behavioral impairments that will delay your child’s development. ADHD, Autism, learning disabilities, etc. are all examples of developmental disabilities.

ADHD– Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A developmental disability that makes it difficult for your child to pay attention or stay focused. Look out for squirming and fidgeting, talking a lot, not being able to wait for their turn, or trouble concentrating.

ASD– Autism Spectrum Disorder: A developmental disability that may delay your child’s speech, motor, learning, and social skills. Early intervention (see below) can help improve skills.

Down Syndrome: A condition caused by an extra chromosome that affects how your child’s brain and body develop. Diagnosis typically happens before or during birth.

Emotional Disturbance: Mental health disorders such as anxiety, bipolar, OCD, etc. that have no direct, identifiable cause.

Be on the lookout for aggressive behavior,

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withdrawal or nerves related to social environments, and vocal outbursts in public places.

Learning Disability: Difficulty learning and grasping new concepts. Learning disabilities include dyslexia (reading), dysgraphia (writing), and dyscalculia (math). See Special Education for more.

Stutter: A speech disorder that makes it challenging for your child to say what they want to say. You may hear them repeat a sound a lot, hold one sound for a long time, or stop speaking mid-sentence.

Special Needs Resources OPWDD– Office of People with Developmental Disabilities: A New York organization that can help connect your family to nonprofit services, based on what kind of treatment/therapy they need, and provide funding.

Transition planning: Creating an action plan for what your child with special needs will do after high school. This is often a part of your IEP (see below).

Service provider: An agency or organization that will help your special needs family navigate some aspect of your journey. This could be everything from speech therapy to after school programs with a focus on special needs to horseback riding as a form of physical therapy.

INCLUDEnyc: A non-profit organization that

advocates for young people in NYC to be included in their communities: classrooms, workplaces, etc. They have super informative resources for parents of kids with special needs, and they can connect you with professionals who can help you navigate your options even further.

Special Education Inclusion: Everyone in the classroom feels welcomed by the school, teacher, and classmates. For special needs kids, inclusion is definitely a keyword to look for when choosing a school!

IEP– Individualized Education Program: A written plan for your child’s education as a special needs student. According to the NYC Department of Education (DOE), this means your child is guaranteed a free and appropriate public education in a Least Restrictive Environment (see below). Your child’s IEP will also include development and progress reports, evaluation results, specific needs, and anything else that is relevant to your child’s success.

IEP Teams: Your IEP team will be made up of you (as a parent/guardian), a school psychologist, a special education teacher (and sometimes a general education teacher), and the district representative.

It may also include a school physician or other service providers who have worked with your child.

Marvin's Camp for Children with Special Needs Low staff-to-camper ratios Door-to-door transportation available Sports, swimming, games, trips & more!

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April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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special needs

LRE– Least Restrictive Environment: Your child will be in a classroom with kids who do not have special needs.

SETSS– Special Education Teacher Support Services: Either a special education teacher will design specific activities for children with special needs or the special education teacher will collaborate with the general education teacher to modify the entire classroom to accommodate.

SEDL– Special Education Distance Learning: Modifying special needs education for virtual/online students. This became especially important during the pandemic.

SWD– Students With Disabilities: Used to refer to special needs children in the classroom.

SC– Special Class: If your child’s needs cannot be met in a general education classroom, they will have all classes taught specifically by a special education teacher.

These classes are typically very small in NYC schools, with up to 12 students for elementary/middle school and up to 15 for high school.

PBIS– Positive Behavioral Interventions & Support: NYC school-wide approach that encourages positive behavior instead of punishing or pointing out the negative. One example of this is changing a poster from “No Food. No Weapons. No Drugs.” to “School Rules: Be Safe, Responsible, Respectful”. This positive environment is especially important for special needs education.

Special Needs Treatment & Evaluation ADL– Activities of daily living: Day-to-day actions like brushing your teeth, going to the bathroom, walking up and down stairs, etc. that are used to determine your child’s diagnosis and progress.

Early intervention: Services and support for infants and young children with developmental disabilities. Early intervention can often help improve your child’s skills and progress.

OT– Occupational Therapy: Focuses on ADL’s (see above) and other everyday skills that your child will work on.

PT- Physical Therapy: Focuses on physical

developmental disabilities and helps your child with mobility and movement.

Speech pathology: Focuses on language and speech disabilities to help your child communicate their thoughts.

Regression: Your child loses skills that they previously had. If regression happens, you may want to revisit and revise your child’s IEP (see above).

AT– Assistive technology: Any device that helps your child’s special needs by improving their capabilities. AT’s include wheelchairs, text to speech, voice recognition, and more.

ABA– Applied Behavior Analysis: A positive-reinforcement program designed to understand your child’s behavior in real life situations. It is most commonly used for children with Autism, but it can also be effective for other developmental disabilities.

Developmental milestones: Key movements, expressions, speech etc. that show your child’s progress. For little ones, this may include smiling at people, crawling, copying sounds, and reaching for toys.

First Foot Forward 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

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Full Day Special Education Classes Evaluations SEIT/Related Services Self Direction/Fiscal Intermediary Respite CHILDREN AT PLAY AND PARENTS...

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April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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Special needs Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

A Friendly Face 1887 Richmond Ave Suite# 5-10314 718-698-1300 460 Midland Ave 718-667-7770 AFFAutism.com Welcome to A Friendly Face Family where they understand the difficulties and frustration in finding professional assistance for your child.

A Friendly Face’s goal is to provide a highly skilled and trained behavior professional team to assist your child and family to acclimate to a life of loving and caring for someone on the Autism Spectrum.

Children at Play 40 Merrill Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10314 718-370-7529 info@childrenatplayeic.org childrenatplayeic.org Children At Play (CAP) has provided services to the Staten Island special needs community for over 30 years!

CAP offers educational and waiver services for children and adults. CAP is

committed to providing each student and participant with a unique and individualized experience. Call 718-3707529 for more information.

The Grace Foundation 460 Brielle Avenue 718-983-3800 Graceofny.org The Grace Foundation improves the lives of individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Grace provides programs including Site Based Respite/In-Home Respite, Day Hab, Com Hab and SEMP for ages 5-30. The ultimate goal is to enable individuals with ASD to lead independent and productive lives.

The Community School High School: 201-862-1796 CHSOffice@ CommunityHighSchoolnj.org 1135 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ Lower School: 201-837-8070 office@communityschool.us 11 W Forest Avenue, Teaneck, CommunitySchoolk12nj.org

Community School serves the bright child with learning & attentional disabilities.

For 53 years the school’s primary goal has been to help children achieve a level of classroom performance that is fully commensurate with their abilities, intellects & talents. Located in Teaneck, NJ, just over the George Washington Bridge.

Eden II Programs 15 Beach Street, Staten Island, NY 718-816-1422 info@eden2.org Eden II Programs supports individuals with autism throughout their lives to achieve their full potential through service, science, and passion. Programs and services include Preschool, school, SIET, SETSS, adult services, residential services, community habilitation, respite, afterschool recreation, consultation support, and other supports and programs for children and adults with autism.

First Foot Forward 1466 Manor Road 1297 Arthur Kill Road 2221 Richmond Avenue jsmith@sijcc.com 718.475.5265 First Foot Forward is a preschool program for children 2.6 to 5 years old with developmental needs.

Our individualized curriculum allows children to reach their full potential in a nurturing environment. New York City and State fund programming.

All services (evaluations, transportation, tuition) are at no direct cost to parents.

INCLUDEnyc INCLUDENYC.org FREE one-to-one direct assistance, resources, and training to Staten Island families of young people with any disability, birth to age 26. Connect with us about early childhood questions, special education processes, transitioning to adulthood, and more! WE CAN HELP! CALL: (212) 677-4660 TEXT: (646) 693-3175.

…that each and every one of our students can excel and that all deserve the opportunity to reach their fullest potential…

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The High School Program provides a complete high school ������������������� bright adolescent with learning disabilities, providing basic preparation for studies at the college level or within a post-secondary program.

High School: 201-862-1796 1135 Teaneck Road, Teaneck, NJ 07666 Lower School: 201-837-8070 11 W Forest Avenue, Teaneck, NJ 07666 www.CommunitySchoolk12nj.org

ABA Therapy for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

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718-667-7770

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201-339-7770

S E R V I C I N G N E W YO R K C I T Y + N E W J E R S E Y April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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Special needs Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

Los Ninos 535 8th Ave 6th FL New York NY 10018 losninos.com Our specialty is serving young children who have developmental delays or disorders such as autism, pervasive developmental delay, speech delays/ disorders, motor delays/ disorders, cognitive and overall delays, adaptive delays. We are staffed by professionals:special education, speech pathology, psychology, social work, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition, vision specialists, board certified behavioral analysts, and behavioral technicians.

James P Murphy Staten Island Preparatory 23 Summit Street Staten Island,NY 718-285-9377 ahrcnyc.org At the James P. Murphy Staten Island Preparatory

School, we are proud to provide a rigorous curricular program combined with ABA programming to meet the needs of students with disabilities from ages 3 to 13.

Our curriculum includes ELA, mathematics, science and social studies with the use of the Next Generation Learning Standards modified for our students to access instruction.

Marvin’s Camp for Children with Special Needs 1301 Manor Road, Staten Island, NY 718-475-5268 lirizarry@sijcc.com Camp.sijcc.org 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.

Person Centered Care Services 150 Granite Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10303 718-370-1088 pccsny.org Person-Centered Care Services is a not-for-profit organization creating social change within communities by supporting people with disabilities on their search for identity and acceptance.

Services available include Community Support, Residential Support, Career Supports, Day Support, Family Education & Training, Self Directed Support.

Sandra Mazzucco, SpeechLanguage Pathology 465 Belfield Avenue, Staten Island, NY 917-825-9005 Providing speech and language therapy to the Staten Island community

for over 40 years. Toddlers - seniors. Specializing in fluency and stuttering, language and feeding disorders. Prompt trained for Apraxia of speech and phonological and articulation disorders. ASHA certified.

New York state license in Speech and Language Pathology. Department of Education RSA accepted.

Sunny Days Consulting Services 1110 South Avenue, Suite 405 Staten Island, NY 10314 718- 556-1616 sunnydays.com Home-Based Early Intervention Program specifically geared toward helping infants and toddlers birth-3 years with developmental delays. We evaluate and treat children with delays and offer Speech, Physical and, Occupational Therapy, Special Instruction and ABA services. We have almost 30 years of experience in the field of special services.

Person Centered Care Services is a not for profit organization creating social change within communities by supporting people with disabilities on their search for identity and acceptance.

SPECIALIZING IN ARTICULATION, PHONOLOGY, LANGUAGE, STUTTERING, FEEDING, ORAL MOTOR DISORDERS Prompt Trained, ASHA Certied, NYS License in Speech Pathology, Accepting RSAs

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We offer career and residential supports, community and day programs, self direction, family education training, community and allyship trainings and more!

150 Granite Avenue Staten Island, NY 10303 (718) 370-1088 www.pccsny.org Info@pccsny.org @pccsny

AHRC NYC James P. Murphy Staten Island Prep

The mission of Eden II Programs is to support people with autism throughout their lives to achieve their full potential through service, science, and passion. Programs and services include: Preschool, school, SEIT, SETSS, adult services, residential services, community habilitation, respite, afterschool recreation, consultation support, and various other supports and programs for children and adults with autism spectrum disorders.

EDEN II PROGRAMS

eden2.org

At the James P. Murphy Staten Island Preparatory School, we are proud to provide a rigorous curricular program combined with ABA programming to meet the needs of students with disabilities from ages 3 to 13.

Our curriculum includes ELA, mathematics, science and social studies with the use of the Next Generation Learning Standards modified for our students to access instruction.

Our school is excited to provide on-site related services and a social emotional learning emphasis for each student in our building. Small classroom ratios and specially trained staff allow for an individualized experience and approach to learning.

Agency Headquarters | 15 Beach St • 10304 facebook.com/eden2programs twitter.com/Eden_Two instagram.com/eden2programs/ youtube.com/user/EDEN2Programs

April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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Summer Camps are Thriving!

Whoo-hoo, we are so happy that Summer Camp is in full swing.

If you’re wondering what to expect this summer, we asked camp experts to share why camp is so wonderful for kids and what families can expect this summer!

“Over the past few years, we’ve all come to appreciate the power of in-person connection. At JCC Day Camp, kids have the opportunity to socialize without screens, make special childhood memories together, and form lasting friendships.”

—Glenn Wechsler, Camp Co-Director, JCC Day Camp

“Socialization is important for campers of all ages especially post Covid. The ability for children to be able to interact with each other in a safe and secure setting is invaluable.”

—Chris Bruno, Director of Summer Programs, Staten Island Academy

“We pride ourselves on being Staten Island’s Fastest Growing Camp!. Ten years ago we started with 24 campers; in 2021 we had 300+ campers enrolled. Many feel our flexible hours, free lunch and home facility make us unique but we feel our extensive & exciting off-camp trip schedule with trips like Keansburg Waterpark, Chelsea Piers & Nickelodeon Universe are the big reason why campers keep returning.”

—Chris Mancuso, Fun Station Day Camp

“All campers will practice good sportsmanship including encouragement, patience and understanding of other campers’ skill levels and backgrounds” —SJHA Summer Camps

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

2022 DAY CAMP OPEN HOUSE DATES: Sunday April 3 10AM-2PM Saturday, April 30 10AM-2PM

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION Deadline: Monday, May 2,2022

LOOK FOR THESE PROGRAMS THIS SUMMER: Talented and Gifted LEGO Robotics and Drones *New Adventure/CIT Program* Ed Perpetua Tennis Academy Academic Tutorial Service Patrick Academic Resource Center

2022 DAY CAMP DATES:

June 13-August 12, 2022 Closed Monday, July 4th April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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Spotlight

In Memorium April 29 designated “P.S. 56 Strong Day” in honor of adored late principal

By Barbara Russo

A

widespread outpouring of love and condolences for P.S. 56 Principal Phil Carollo continues to ripple through the community as Staten Islanders mourn the loss of the beloved educational leader, who passed away suddenly from a heart attack on March 1.

The hashtags #PS56Strong and #LiveLikePhil spread like wildfire on social media in the weeks following his passing, so district leaders decided to designate April 29, 2022 “PS56 Strong Day” to show support.

Students are encouraged to wear tee shirts donning the slogan that day, and schools will likely dedicate a moment of remembrance in the cherished principal’s honor.

The 49-year-old husband and father of two loved his family, his job and his students. And they all loved him back.

“Phil had a knack for making everyone feel special and important,” his wife Erin Carollo said. “He loved being a principal and he loved P.S. 56. He was one of the very few people I know who got up each day and loved going to work. He loved the kids.”

Carollo, who lived with his family in Tottenville, had a passion for teaching that resonated through the school every day. He was charismatic and fun, according to Erin, and wasn’t the type to stay in his office all day–he preferred engaging with the students. He was at every arrival and dismissal, giving highfives to the kids. He was even known to break out a boom box, crank up the music and hold impromptu dance parties in the hallways.

The beloved principal’s passing has left parents and students feeling a tremendous loss.

Heather Gambaro, whose 6-year-old son, John, is a student at P.S. 56, is heartbroken.

“He was an amazing principal. He wanted students to not only learn, but have fun doing it,” Gambaro said. “My little guy would run to him every day to get hugs and high-fives, and do Spiderman poses. They’d have a full on conversation about movies.”

Gambaro recalled a time when Carollo helped her through some difficulty her oldest

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Phil Carollo with his wife Erin and children. Sophia and Giovanni son, Marc, was experiencing when he was a younger student attending the school.

“I remember we were having some problems with my older son, so my husband and I had a meeting at the school,” Gambaro said.

“Principal Carollo helped us and listened. He always believed in Marc and made him feel like he could accomplish anything.”

Carollo was a fan of singer, Post Malone.

Linda Acevedo, a special education teacher at P.S. 56, is organizing a petition asking the singer to record a brief video to honor the late principal. To date, the petition has over 1,400 signatures.

The friendly and fun principal was wellknown for popping into classrooms at any time to pose for selfies with the kids. He organized many events and fundraisers for P.S. 56 and made student- and school-safety a priority.

“He really understood that in order for kids to learn, they need to feel safe and loved,” Erin, who is also a teacher, said. “That’s the atmosphere he created in school. He did a lot of fun things with them which gave him the in to give them what they needed academically. They took such pride in being students at that school that they really did thrive.”

His fun-loving teaching style and engagement with the students didn’t stop when COVID-19 started. During the pandemic, Carollo made it a point to stay connected with his students every day by reading them bedtime stories on Facebook. He was also a strong advocate for having technology in his schools, even before the pandemic hit.

As passionate as he was for his career, Carollo didn’t always want to be a teacher.

Some of his earlier jobs were in finance and construction. It was when he began coaching his nephews in baseball that he realized his passion was in teaching.

“It sparked something in him and he knew that he wanted to work with children,” Erin said.

After going back to school to get his education credits, Carollo began his teaching career in 2000 at P.S. 44, Mariners Harbor. Ten years later, he became the assistant principal of P.S. 22, Graniteville, before taking the role of principal at P.S. 56, Rossville, in 2017.

Family Life Coaching baseball is not only how Carollo discovered his passion, but how he met Erin, too.

“Phil and I met at a South Shore Little

April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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Spotlight

League game where he was coaching his nephews. I was there to see my friend’s brother and some kids I used to babysit, and I saw him there. Phil used to always tell the story of how as soon as he saw me, he told the other coaches, ‘that girl doesn’t know it yet, but she’s gonna be my wife.’ I met him that day, and we were inseparable since.”

The couple was married for 17 years. His two children—Sophia, 15, and Giovanni, 10—brought him so much joy, and his family meant the world to him. He loved them very much.

Carollo’s Italian heritage was also important to him. He had a very close relationship with his parents, who are trying to cope with their son’s death.

“It sounds cliché, but Phil really was the American dream. His parents were immigrants from Sicily. They wanted to give him all the opportunities that they didn’t have,” Erin explained.

Carollo also leaves behind a sister, a sisterin-law and two brothers-in-law.

His dog, a Lhasa apso named Chewy, still waits for him to come home.

“Phil had a knack for making everyone feel special and important. He loved being a principal and he loved P.S. 56.”

Condolences and Support While it’s been very difficult for Erin and her children, having the support of family, the school and community is helping her through this tragic time.

“I think it’s so important for my kids to see how much their father meant to so many people,” Erin said. “To my kids he was ‘dad,’ and we loved him because he was ours. But it’s important for them to see the impact he made on so many people.”

Dr. Marion Wilson, superintendent for Staten Island public schools, spoke about Carollo’s dedication to his job and his students.

“Phil Carollo was a beloved principal in District 31 and a true champion for children,” Wilson said. “Phil had high expectations for his students and provided his teachers with all of the support to ensure students were socially, academically and emotionally successful. He touched the life of everyone he met, and his legacy will remain with us forever.”

David Banks, NYC schools chancellor, shared his condolences.

“I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Philip Carollo and the entire school community at PS 56 for this tragic loss. It is clear that Principal Carollo was a truly beloved leader at P.S. 56, filled with school spirit and passion for his work.

I know he will be missed dearly, and I am so grateful for all the work he has done to support his students over the years, touching the lives of so many.”

Erin and her family continue to be thankful for the condolences and support from the community.

“It’s wonderful,” she said. “From the day I met him, I knew that he was something special.

I’m just glad that the world got to see what I always knew.”

Phil Carollo was laid to rest in the Cemetery of the Resurrection, Pleasant Plains, on March 5, 2022.

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April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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mom hacks

How to Ace Eco-Friendly

Thrift Shopping

By Courtney Ingalls

A

ccording to the Environmental Protection Agency, in 2018, 17 million tons of textile waste ended up in landfills.

This number is growing every year.

There are significant advantages to shopping vintage. For parents who have younger children, second-hand or vintage clothing is an excellent option since kids’ are constantly growing and it is a budget-friendly way to shop. It also teaches kids that thrifting is good for the environment and fun when scoring some fabulous pieces.

Now for those of you (including myself) who are trying to dip their toes into the world of thrifting, Natalie Sky, Owner of Mother Vintage NYC, shares her experience with thrift shopping with terrific tips for us newbies!

How did your fascination for thrifting/vintage shopping begin?

I grew up thrifting out of necessity — my mom was a single mom of 5. Thrift shops were somewhere that she could get us all

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clothes without really breaking the bank.

Funny thing is, we didn’t know we were shopping at Thrift Shops or that the clothes were secondhand until we got older. She called The Salvation Army “Sallys.”

We always looked at Sallys as a cool place where we could find unique clothes that our friends didn’t have. So even after I became a teenager/ adult, I continued shopping there for cool, unique clothes!

How did the idea of your store, MOTHER VINTAGE, come to be?

Growing up in the thrifts, my love for thrifting never ended! My twin sister and I tour the world as singers/ DJ’s. Anytime we land in a new city I map out where the closest thrift/ vintage shops are and we head out to shop before our shows.

While acquiring clothes for ourselves, we started collecting cute vintage kid clothing that reminded us of outfits we wore growing up. Then we had kids of our own and we found ourselves shopping at Thrift shops for our kids. That’s when the idea of MOTHER VINTAGE came about.

Here we are doing the same thing our mother did, thrifting for clothes for our kids! Although we could always shop in other stores– we were always back at the thrifts! MOTHER VINTAGE is really a nod to our mother who introduced us to thrifting + vintage, but it’s also our way to give other people the chance to shop some

of our finds + scoop up some of that NYC 90’s – 2000’s Aesthetic for their kids. That’s what MOTHER VINTAGE collections are inspired by, what we saw + wore growing up in NYC in the late 90’s – early 2000’s.

Vintage/thrift shopping has become so popular over the past couple of years. Why do you believe that is?

So many reasons! The reason our Mother brought us, to save money! Because you can find high quality clothing at low prices. Because it’s fun, it’s like searching for treasure you never know what unique pieces you will find while thrifting. Because most fashion trends are rip offs of past fashion anyway!

Right now y2k style is making a comeback — low rise jeans, bucket hats, that Ed Hardy vibe — these are all things you can currently find at the thrifts! And of course because It’s eco-friendly and sustainable!

What are some of the benefits of second hand clothes shopping, especially when it comes to kids clothing?

Kids outgrow clothing so fast! Thrifting is budget friendly, you can shop for a full season of kids clothes for a fraction of the price you would pay at regular department stores.

April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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mom hacks

There’s so many different styles & items to shop — new styles & past seasonsvintage to designer.

When your child outgrows their current wardrobe, you can donate those & pick up something “new.” I love bringing my kids to pick out their own clothes at the thrift store!

It really is a way to find unique clothing and allow them to make their style their own since there’s so much to choose from and as they get older you can teach them how thrifting is sustainable and you’re actually helping the earth by shopping there!

For those (like myself) who would like to start thrift shopping, what are some tips/ techniques to help get your started?

Dress comfortably! Some thrift shops have fitting rooms, some don’t. So be ready

to try on clothing over your clothes if necessary.

Check all buttons/ seams/ zippers & stains and then — DOUBLE CHECK! I’ve come home with the perfect leather jacket only to find out the zipper was broken. I was able to get it fixed, but that isn’t always the case so make sure you inspect your items before bringing them to the checkout.

Size doesn’t always matter. Vintage clothing tends to run smaller than modern day sizing so don’t be scared to shop in different size sections than you’re used to.

Always check for deals! Most

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siparent.com | April 2022

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thrift shops have color tag sales. So like on a Monday there might be 50% off green tags — or even multiple colors. Check for the color tags of the day for an extra little discount.

Lastly, be ready to dig/ hunt for those treasures.

Some days at the thrift store you might strike gold & find tons of awesome pieces — the next day you might not. But that is the thrill of the find!

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April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

37

TRAVEL

Paris �e�aw�y

Add this chic city to your next #momtrip or family bucket list

BY DONNA DUARTE�LADD

A

year plus into the pandemic, it hit me that I was no longer daydreaming; never mind goals — a goal seemed like a fool’s game. Mentally and emotionally, I was exhausted.

One day, I began to do something I had not done in a while; I created a vision board.

My vision board consisted of one theme.

Paris. Crazy lady, I know. I went from not considering anything for myself to dreaming of taking a trip to another country. No kids, no partner — just a fun mom trip.

Was flying to another country going

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to solve my gloominess, of course not, but getting away was only going to do good. It also would gift me something I hadn’t had in years…time to myself.

So I took the trip. Along with a fellow mother/friend who also needed solo time, we packed our bags with clothes we hadn’t worn in, let’s say…two years (!) and hopped on a jetplane to France.

Au revoir!

Getting There One of the perks of my job is that we are offered many trips, some to faraway places. It surprises people, but I am pretty particular when

accepting a travel trip. One huge factor is, yes, the kids. Another big one is that I want to go on an aspirational trip and provide our readers with something that will feel like a dose of selfcare. What is the point of sharing a trip that our readers will not want to take?!

The Flight: Things to Know about French Bee French bee checks all the boxes for team New York Family. It is the first French smart-cost long-haul airline. In New York, we have many French families, and I love this airline for our French parents who fly to France often. It also is perfect for families who want to take that dream trip and an airline such as French bee can take the entire family without breaking the bank.

French bee flies modern Airbus A350s and offers three customizable ticket options Basic, Smart and Premium. Currently, fares start at $199 one-way from New York to Paris, and booking is an À la carte experience. Working with your budget, you pick what fits for you. Since my trip was a ‘mom getaway,’ I chose Premium, yup,

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April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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Travel

no regrets. I had plenty of legroom; all French bee seats include USB and electrical ports, headphone plugs, and unlimited in-flight entertainment. I had a yummy breakfast after I slept, which was the first time I slept on a flight. The flight attendants were kind, and the vibe was joyful. I had the wrong mask on (I was rusty), and they graciously supplied one that was compliant for flying. They asked us continuously if we needed anything-honestly my friend and I needed some TLC; we take care of everyone, and we are not often asked if we are okay or need something. So, merci for this.

Another cool thing French bee offers is to combine your plane ticket with your train destination when you book your flight. You receive a special rate on your train tickets, including guarantees of your train trip in case of delay or cancellation, which when traveling to another country this is a huge task to check off the list.

Helpful Planning Resources I am a research kind of person- most parents are as we are use to our time being tight. Working with Atout France, I streamlined the spots we wanted to visit. I also used the site to stay up to date regarding COVID in France. I highly recommend visiting this site as it was essential for planning a smooth trip.

Also, if one of the main to do’s on your list is visiting all the museums you can, consider the Paris Museum Pass.

The pass allows you to skip the lines (but not security, of course!) at some of the best museums-check online to ensure your museum is on the list. You can choose between three passes: 2, 4 or 6 days, and is activated at first use.

If you plan on visiting many museums, this pass is cost-effective.

Tip: for the 18 and younger set, most museums are free- this pass is best for adults.

Bonjour, what to do in Paris (with or without kids) There are so many great parts of Paris to stay at and really you should stay in the nook that works for you and your family.

We stayed in Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement- which is a neighborhood I would recommend staying in with kids or adding to your must-visit list. The

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When you bring the kids... restaurants and cafes are all unique and friendly. As a mom to a special needs child, I know what works or wouldn’t for my son, and I know we will come back here (soon I hope) and stay in Montmartre.

There were kids on scooters and parents dropping and picking up kids. The Metro (subway) is central to this area. The vibe felt familiar which is always a goal personally for me when traveling- and my friend and I seamlessly fit right in.

Visiting France in the time of COVID We all know that health protocols are ever-changing. My trip was relatively recent, and at the time, a Health Pass was required. You need to get to a French Pharmacy as soon as you get settled, which isn’t difficult as they are everywhere in France. To learn more on how to acquire this pass, click here.

According to the U.S Embassy and Consulate of France: As of February 12th fully vaccinated travelers coming from any green or orange nation, including the United States (as well as minor children under 12) no longer require a covid test to enter France, and may enter with proof of vaccination and a sworn statement they do not have symptoms of COVID-19 nor contact with someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19.

Helpful Tips • If you are babywearing your babe, you will want to bring a comfortable baby carrier, as wearing your little one will make your life much more manageable than lugging a giant stroller. The museums are busy and the restaurants packed. Carrying your baby will help you to maneuver around smoothly.

• When it comes to eating in restaurants, the French eat pretty late, so you may want to eat fairly early before the bistros get crowded when eating with young kids.

• Regarding strollers, leave your huge city stroller at home and bring a lightweight easy to fold stroller. There are narrow sidewalks in some arrondissements and cobbled streets, but let’s be honest, a toddler will only walk so much, and a folded stroller will come in handy.

• There are great parks in Paris; bring comfy shoes and wear them just like you would in your neighborhood park.

Standouts of Montmartre Dali Paris Museum (Salvador Dali) at 11 rue Poulbot (children under 8 are free) Since Notre Dame (still worth visiting) is being repaired, Sacre Coeur is located at the city’s highest point and is a beautiful church to visit.

Place du Tertre in Montmartre with Kidssitting on top of Paris’ largest hill; this artistic spot is full of street art, bistros, and even a little train for kids to hop on.

Museums that should be on your list Lourve Museum: We went in the afternoon but would recommend going first thing in the morning if you have little ones as it does get busy.

Musée de L’Orangerie: Kids will love this beauty of a museum. You will love it for being the stunning showcase of Claude Monet’s monumental series of water lily paintings.

Musee Picasso Paris Picasso-Paris National Museum: Keep in mind there are many stairs -thankfully there are elevators if you have little kids or a stroller.

The Centre Pompidou Modern Art Museum: This museum is terrific; you can spend hours at this iconic museum with the kids. There is much to do and visit; I recommend going online to plan your visit if you bring the family.

Kid-friendly restaurant recommendations via Atout France LouLou Paris: located in the courtyard just outside the Louvre, this restaurant has fantastic views of the Louvre and its glass pyramid as well as the Eiffel Tower and the Tuileries gardens. If you’re looking for a post-museum meal, this is a great spot. Probably best for slightly older children; website is only in French sorry but the images will show you what a great setting.

Brutus: crepes are great for kids and adults and this restaurant presents a more modern take with both savory and sweet creations. It’s also Paris’ first cider bar and while there are 25 types of cider for adults, they also offer organic apple juice. They also have a kids menu and coloring activities to keep the kids occupied while you wait for those crepes. It’s in the Batignolles neighbourhood in the 17th arrondissement.

Galeries Lafayette Paris Hausmann: this is the classic Paris department store so after you’re done shopping for the family, there are several types of restaurants to choose from. Jour is a good casual spot for made-to-order salads and fresh juices.

There’s always Angelina: the mainstay on Rue de Rivoli famous for its decadent hot chocolate if you’re looking for a snack spot.

The Paris Tourist Office also has several family-friendly restaurants on their website (https://en.parisinfo.com).

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April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

41

Ready for Joy!

Mikaela Pabon of @dressedinjoy on family, home and bold moves

By Donna Duarte-LaDD

A

s we all make our way out of this pandemic, I have felt the tug of wanting aspiration and inspiration infused into my closet and home. I believe Instagram caught on as I was searching for stylish people, and one day, Brooklyn-based Mikaela Pabon popped up on my feed.

This mom of two IG posts are full of bright, colorful clothing, mixed prints — and I find myself always wanting to see more.

I am not the only one, many women are inspired by this wardrobe stylist, content creator and founder of the statement-making athleisure line @dressedinjoy.

Via her social media feeds, Mikaela shares daily (@mikaela.pabon) on her life as she and her husband Dre juggle their young children (Christian, age 8, Elle, age 4) while sharing tips and cheering on others.

At the photo shoot — our tightknit crew found ourselves seamlessly fitting in with the kids, Mikaela's amazing husband, and even the dog made it into the photo shoot. You can’t fake that kind of energy — just pure love and openness.

While Mikaela is undoubtedly stylish, her quiet confidence intrigued me while we were at their home that snowy day in Brooklyn.

So yes, while she is one of the chicest moms I have met in some time, her whole vibe is bright, and yes, the next day, I went full-on bright palettes and print mode!

Let’s first discuss your style? Does it come naturally, or do you have to work the vibrancy of colors and prints into your life?

My style absolutely comes naturally.

Often, I’ll imagine an outfit in my head before I put it together. Color and print have been a part of my wardrobe for as long as I can remember! I’ve studied Hawaiian dance since I was eight years old, and we’d always

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wear the brightest colored costumes, lots of greenery, bold floral prints — that stuck with me over the years and it’s why I am still so drawn to them now.

Can you share with us about your collection Dressed in Joy? Dressed in Joy is like my love letter to little Mikaela. Since I was a young girl, designing clothes has been my dream, but I squashed that dream myself when I didn’t think it was a realistic career. Isn’t that crazy? That I made that decision for myself at such a young age! What started as designing a hoodie for myself that I couldn’t find anywhere in the market (and I looked for months!) has turned into more than I could have ever imagined. I started Dressed in Joy when I was still working my corporate job at Jetblue, hoping to sell at least ten hoodies in my first weekend. I ended up selling 52! It’s been uphill from there. People all around the world — from Japan to Germany to Australia — are Dressed in Joy. From the likes of Tabitha Brown to Jessica Alba, being on the TODAY Show with Al Roker and local NYC news stations, my brand has gone farther in the last two years than I ever thought was possible.

After just over a year of selling athleisure exclusively, I launched a Ready-to-Wear collection in May of 2021, which did exceptionally well. So well, I launched another for Spring 2022. It has been received extremely well, and I am looking forward to offering more JOY for my customers. It’s been an indescribable feeling to know that my work brings joy to so many people worldwide.

Many of us have a pile of cozy sweats from the last few years of being stuck at homecan you share tips on how one can get out of a style slump?

Well, here’s the thing, you can still be cute in cozy sweats! Not only are they available in so many more colors but also

in vibrant prints (*cough* Dressed in Joy *cough*)! Get yourself a pair of fun, colorful sneakers that can turn into your everyday shoe (because really, who’s wearing heels every day anymore?), and you’re golden. You can also switch out your joggers for a pair of high waist denim. You can still throw on your hoodie, but try tucking the front of it and throw on a leather jacket over it for a cool weekend look.

Now that spring is coming around, more dresses and skirts are showing up in stores, which is another way to transition out of your joggers! They can be just as cozy without the stigma that wearing joggers can sometimes carry. Most of all, wear what brings you joy and have fun!

At the photoshoot, we chatted about how at one point, you had too much going on, something many of us moms can relate to.

How did you step back and check-in with yourself so you could move forward?

Oh man, yeah. I know many of us get overwhelmed with everything we have to do and all the thoughts and information we have to keep in our brains. I had gotten completely overwhelmed with my corporate job, with a baby who cried all the time while trying to keep a drowning business afloat. Something had to give. When I realized I was crying and feeling overwhelmed more than enjoying my family or taking time for myself, I knew it was time to take a break. It was HARD. It was really hard to let my business go (before Dressed in Joy, I owned another online boutique) because it felt like a part of my identity, but there was no way to sustain it all.

And on top of it all, I didn’t enjoy it anymore.

It was work I dreaded, and that’s never a good feeling. I talked it through with Dre and he supported whatever my decision was 100%. And thank God I did that! It was only when I allowed myself the time to breathe, be

Photo by Yumi Matsuo

inspired, and relax that the idea for the first Dressed in Joy hoodie came to me.

You have equally stylish mom friends. How are you and your @momstylematters there for each other?

We are all so much alike! From family structures (we each have two kids, boy & girl) to our bold and colorful styles and being fashion entrepreneurs, it’s easy for us to support each other because we’re all going through similar challenges. We connected

initially via style and then motherhood and entrepreneurship. There’s nothing like being able to call your girlfriend and complain about running your business and toddler drama all at the same time!

You have a creative and tight-knit family; even your dog Indi is lovely! How do you and Dre, your husband, keep the family in sync?

Thank you! Honestly, a lot of it came naturally to us because we have the same goals for our children — to raise good

humans who aren’t afraid to do what they love. We are both very encouraging to our kids, whether they want to be a dentist (Elle) or an Engineer/YouTuber (Christian) because ultimately, we want them both to know that we have their backs with whatever they decide to do, as long as they remain kind and happy people. Dre and I do our best to set the example for doing what we love and living out our dreams and it is our hope that they both remember that about us as they grow into adulthood.

April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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calendar Things to do in April

S

pring has arrived, 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, April 2 and 9 Two shows: 6 and 8 pm

Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave. These indoor concerts 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. Ticket information is online.

Mall Photos with the Bunny Daily through April 16; 8am-11pm (Times can vary so check the mall website or Facebook page for periodic updates)

Staten Island Mall, 2655 Richmond Ave. Get some hoppy photos of your little ones with the Easter Bunny.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

Flip Circus Daily through April 11; Monday-Friday, 7pm; Saturday-Sunday, 2, 5 and 8pm

Staten Island Mall, 2655 Richmond Ave. The circus is in town! Enjoy entertainment including clown

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Happy hunting at the Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza at Clay Pit Ponds State Park on April 16. acts, acrobatics, jugglers and more.

Ticket information is online.

Tot Time Tuesdays Tuesdays; 10-11:30am

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve Nature Interpretive Center 2351Veterans Rd. W. Explore a different nature theme each Tuesday during this indoor free play group. Registration required.

B – The Underwater Bubble

Show Friday, April 8, 6:30pm

St. George Theatre, 35 Hyatt St. Inspired by childhood standards like Alice in Wonderland, The Little Mermaid and Peter Pan, B – The Underwater Bubble Show is a modern fairy tale with a twist. Ticket information available online.

Environmental Trail Walk for Kids Saturday, April 9; 9am-12pm

Zimmer Club Youth Conservation Program of Staten Island 4411 Arthur Kill Rd. Kids ages 10-17 will learn about conservation, the environment and habitat awareness.

Easter Holiday Market Saturday, April 9; 1-6pm

NYC Arts Cypher, 12 Broad St. Enjoy Two floors of vendors, music, raffles, games and photos with the Easter Bunny. Donations collected for Pajamas for Pals.

april

calendar

Cub Scout Day Saturday, April 9; 12-3pm

Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave. Bring your little scout to Historic Richmond Town for a day filled with fun and activities.

Registration required.

Easter Sunday Family Photo Day April 14-17; 1-4pm

SI Food and Art Market; 20 Cebra Ave. Come dressed in your Sunday best to have your photos taken with family and friends by Marcie Photography.

Egg Hunt Eggstravaganza!

Saturday, April 16; 10am-1pm

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve Nature Interpretive Center 2351Veterans Rd. W. Hunt for eggs along the trails of Clay Pit Ponds., and enjoy activities, crafts, and presentations all about eggs! Bring your own basket.

Forest Restoration Workshop Saturday, April 16; 10-12pm

Mount Moses parking lot (Rockland Avenue and Manor Road) Help Protectors of Pine Oak Woods improve local forest by cutting invasive woody vines. Service credit available.

Registration required.

Earth Day Celebration Friday, April 22; 10am-2pm

Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve Nature Interpretive Center 2351Veterans Rd. W. Celebrate Earth, and drop-in any time during this Clay Pit Ponds event to engage in educational activities, crafts, and more.

Tracy Morgan SIUH Benefit Show Thursday, April 28; 8pm

St. George Theatre, 35 Hyatt St. Head to the St. George Theatre to see comedian, Tracy Morgan, perform live at his “Laughter is the Best Medicine” show. All ticket proceeds to benefit the

(Top) Experience a Tavern Concert at Historic Richmond Town, April 2 and 9. (Center) Tracy Morgan brings his stand-up to the St. George Theatre on April 28. (Bottom) Catch the Flip Circus at Staten Island Mall through April 11.

Pediatric Cancer Center at Staten Island University Hospital.

Ticket information is online.

Basket Auction Friday, April 29; 6pm

St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 76 St. Alban’s Pl. Ring in spring with St. Alban’s Episcopal Church’s basket auction event. A $5 donation includes coffee and cake. Soda and water available for purchase.

Earth Day Celebration: Seed to Soil Saturday, April 30; 1-4pm

Staten Island Museum, 1000 Richmond Terr.

Learn something new as you help protect the Earth. Explore the ground below and world above with activities and presentations in art, science, and history.

April 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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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

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Camp.SIJCC.org