Capital District Parent Pages January 2018

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Inside:

January calendar listings

arent pages

Capital District

Volume 22 • Number 01 • JANUARY 2018 • Complimentary

Resolutions for blended families

The Resource for Parents

Breakfast in hand

Picture your child here See details inside

Triplets turn 10 cdparentpages.com

cdparentpages.com JANUARY 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 1

Free Babysitting

You receive 2 hours of free baby-sitting every day with your family membership. Enjoy your workout while we watch your child. Monthly Value = $80.

CDPP 1.18

YOU BELONG AT THE Y Not a member yet? SAVE $100! Bring this ad to any branch of the Capital District YMCA by January 31, 2018 and we’ll waive the joiner’s fee.

CAPITAL DISTRICT YMCA • 518.869.3500 • www.CDYMCA.org BETTER TOGETHER — The Capital District YMCA is a leading Capital Region Charity.

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AS 2017 COMES TO A CLOSE, IT’S TIME TO START THINKING ABOUT PRESCHOOL AND SUMMER CAMPS FOR 2018!

Come check out The Herman and Libbie Michaelson Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel!

Located right next to St Peter’s Hospital

Temple Israel Nursery School offers: • Care for children 18 months 5 years • Register for 2 - 5 days per week, Full Day 8:00am - 5:30pm or Half Day 9:00am - 1:00pm • Unique Hebrew immersion program, ages 3 - 5 years • Music, art, gardening, and so much more every day!

Summer Camp is right around the corner…Registration begins March 1 for our 2018 Summer Camp season!

Take a tour, learn more, or register by contacting: Amie Bloom, Director • 518 438-7858 x120 amiebloom@tialbany.org • 600 New Scotland Ave, Albany 103648_4

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Go inside out this winter Don’t let the weather chill your family’s appetite for outdoor fun

W

e spend a lot of this January issue of Parent Pages encouraging you and your family to go outside and enjoy the winter wonderland that the Capital District becomes when blanketed with snow. (See pages 10-11.)

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arent pages

Capital District

Editor’s desk

The Resource for Parents

January 2018 Features Winter fun

10-11

Columnists Let’s Cook British Nanny

But I’ll admit, outdoors in January is not my natural habitat. Many days, I will find a million and one excuses to not even leave the house.

I don’t like to be cold, but hibernating isn’t healthy for humans. Add a couple of bored kids to the mix, and hunkering down at home begins to sound a lot less appealing. And here’s another confession: Once I am up and out the door, I actually enjoy the snow. I’m a big fan of sledding and snowshoeing because there are no special skills required, and I’ve been known to wobble my way around an ice rink. (I’m always happy to make a fool of myself if it makes the kids laugh!)

5 6-7

Triple Threat

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24-hour Shift

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What’s new On the bookshelf Cover kids

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My point is, sometimes we need to go out and play whether the weather is cooperating or not. And when we push ourselves to take that step, we may find we’re having fun in spite of the chill. So this January, resolve to go outside more, and stock up on the cold-weather gear you’ll need to do it comfortably. It’s a long way till spring.

Resources

Looking to balance out your outdoor fun? Consult our calendar listings on Pages 14-18 for a month of activities for kids of all ages.

Calendar 14-18

Also in this issue, we renew our annual appeal for your pictures to grace our 2018 covers. Dozens of local kids have been featured over the years, and your child could be next. These full-color covers peek out from newsstands all across the Capital Region for an entire month. See Page 13 for more details about submitting photos for cover consideration. Please keep in mind the size and resolution when sending a photo. Oftentimes a picture can look great on a cellphone but not so good when it’s enlarged. As your local parenting magazine, we know how important it is to feature local kids on the cover, and we need your help to make it happen!

Finally, we’d like to wish you a Happy New Year! As always, thanks for reading.

Please feel free to send your suggestions, ideas, comments and pictures to me at robertsk@ spotlightnews.com. You can also check out the latest at www.cdparentpages.com.

Kristen Roberts, editor

Cover submissions: Parent Pages is always accepting photos for potential covers.

Submissions should be at least 8-by-10-inches with a dpi of 400.

They can be sent via email to robertsk@spotlightnews.com.

Kid fun page

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publisher - John

McIntyre editor - Kristen Roberts advertising sales - Denice Mau art director - David Abbott graphic design - Martha Eriksen Capital District Parent Pages is a unit of Community Media Group LLC. Published monthly. Deadline for advertising and calendar events is the 5th of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates are available on request.

Capital District Parent Pages reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. We do not guarantee any of the information, services or products published in this or any issue. The opinions expressed by the contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this paper. Copyright 2013 by Capital District Parent Pages. No portion of Capital District Parent Pages may be reproduced without written permission from Community Media Group LLC. Rachelle & Lawrence Stallman Founders of Capital District Parent Pages

JANUARY 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 3

On the Bookshelf

Read the chilly days away ‘Winter Dance’

‘South’

by Marion Dane Bauer; illustrated by Richard Jones

by Daniel Duncan After a lonely fisherman finds an injured migrating bird on his boat, he treats its injuries and heads south, as together they form a special friendship and enjoy life at sea until both the healing process and the journey come to an end. Abrams Books for Young Readers

A fox wonders how he should prepare for the coming winter, but what other animals do will not work for him. Then, he meets a golden-eyed friend who shares the perfect way to celebrate the snowfall. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

‘We’re Going to Be Friends’

by Jack White; illustrated by Elinor Blake Based on the White Stripes beloved song of the same name, this book is an ode to childhood friendships with bold illustrations that harken back to the Golden Book era. Third Man Books

“THE HOMEWORK WARS” WORKSHOP

Does your child struggle to complete homework each night?

If so, it may be due to a visual problem.

As many as 1 in 4 children have a learning-related visual issue that affects their ability to read, learn, comprehend and even pay attention.These visual issues are often undetected in standard eye exams.

If you would like to learn more about how we can help you and your child, please join us for an informative presentation by

DKI Acting Academy is for teens who want to expand their skills in acting, public speaking, and performing, while building confidence and creativity.

And that foundation can have a dramatic impact on academic, personal and professional success.

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Dr. Robert Fox, O.D., F.C.O.V.D. On January 24th, 2018 at 6:30 PM

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4 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2018

1202 Troy-Schenectady Rd., Latham, NY

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Vision therapy will change how you see the world!

Let’s Cook!

Jodie Fitz

W

e are back to busy schedules after the holidays, and boy does getting back into the swing of things hit hard! Breakfasts are like a juggling act with school, kids and work in the mix.

In my house, we have our granola, yogurt, fruit and breakfast bar fallbacks, but I often look for items I can have in the freezer to make it easier to share an occasional hot breakfast as we run out the door.

One option is my Chocolate Waffle Breakfast Sandwich. It’s a delicious combination of cocoa power, whole grains, bananas and more. I double this recipe, make it on the weekend and freeze the extras so that all we have to do is toast up the waffle, spread a little peanut butter and add some sliced bananas for a quick bite.

Get more recipes from Jodie Fitz through the Price Chopper Kids Cooking Club at www.pricechopper.com. To learn more about her, visit www.jodiefitz.com.

Chocolate Waffle Breakfast Sandwich 1 large egg 1 cup all-purpose unbleached flour 1 cup white whole wheat flour ¼ cup cocoa powder 4 oz. cinnamon applesauce 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 ½ cups low fat milk ½ cup brown sugar Peanut butter Cinnamon Banana Honey (optional) Using a whisk, mix the egg, flours, cocoa powder, cinnamon applesauce, baking powder, vanilla extract, low fat milk and brown sugar together.

Cook the batter in a waffle maker.

Cut each waffle into four parts. Spread

peanut butter onto one quarter, add banana slices, sprinkle cinnamon and a drizzle of honey (optional). Add another waffle part on top and serve as a breakfast sandwich.

Makes 4-5 waffles. Extra waffles? Let the extra waffles cool. Wrap each waffle individually in waxed or parchment paper and place them in a freezer bag and freeze. Simply toast on busy mornings.

Well-nourished kids are ready to learn, grow, and play!

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) helps childcare providers pay for healthy meals and snacks.

Visit ChildcareMealsNY.org to learn more.

Quality nutrition adds up!

CACFP reimburses providers for serving healthy meals and snacks. A daycare home provider serving five children a morning snack, lunch, and supper 20 days per month could receive up to $565 per month in reimbursement. That’s up to $6,780 per year!

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Waffles on the go

= up to $565 per month to nourish kids

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JANUARY 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 5

British Nanny

speech matters

Resolutions for blended families

L

Take your time and be a good listener to help everyone adjust

ast year was one of transitions for our family -- schools, jobs, and for my daughter Ellie and grandson Copeland, an enlarging of their family unit as two families blended into one. Copeland went from an only child to the youngest of four, and Ellie found herself falling in love with not just one new adult partner (Henry), but three little ones (Isaac, Maya and Felix). Did I mention that she also just started college full time and holds down a job!

Happy, healthy and harmonious relationships in any single family can be difficult, blending two families into one can, at times, seem like insanity. Despite bucketloads of enthusiasm and good intentions, it can take several bumpy years to settle into a comfortable rhythm. Add to that the higher divorce rate among blended families, and it would be sane to question the whole “Brady Bunch” concept.

Get used to life filled with impossible schedules, daily meltdowns (including the adults), ex-partner issues and a new partner whose parenting style at times may clash significantly with your own.

Blended families can be messy, complicated and, at times, bone-achingly exhausting. Even the seemingly simple blended families are presented with their own set of challenges.

Having said that, there are also many opportunities for extended love and joy. In addition, because you have to work so hard to build each relationship, everyone learns many important lessons that will take them through life.

ing with your new family that your relationship with your own child doesn’t suffer. Expect that your own child’s behavior may change for a while. The younger the child, the easier it will be to merge into this new life. Just like you, your child will sometimes miss the way it So, how do you navigate the was before. My grandson Copeinitial rocky road of a blended land clearly enjoys his newfamily and keep growing? found family as he was an only I’ve combined my seasoned child, prior to this. It can, howperspective and my daughter ever, be overwhelming at times.

Ellie’s fresh perspective from My daughter is sensitive to ground zero, and here’s this and spends regular what we’ve learned. “mom-and-Copey by time.”

Be realistic and patient.

Sharon Cole

This will take time. Blending a family is not for the faint of heart. You are probably not the Von Trapps in the “Sound of Music.” It’s unlikely that your newfound family will form a singing band and harmonize as they ride off into the sunset. Given a whole lot of work, blood, sweat, tears and a great deal of humor, you will, however, find a comfortable rhythm.

Ellie’s observations: “It’s OK to not be OK sometimes.

Blending a family is not an easy job.”

Take one-on-one time with your own children.

Be mindful as you are bond-

Ellie’s message to Copeland regarding his adjustment to his new family arrangement: “Shout out to the kindest human being I have ever known. This past year has definitely taken its toll on us both. Watching you develop and adjust to this new chapter in our life has been truly amazing. You have jumped leaps and bounds from an only child to the youngest of four. Thank you for holding my hand and leading the way through this life.

Try to find humor when stressed.

When all else fails, try to see the lighter side. Laugh at yourself, and encourage the children to laugh. Laughter is a natural

stress reducer. Ellie and Henry use humor often to de-stress their household.

Ellie’s observations about handling stress: “Nothing that some wine and a Snickers bar can’t fix!”

Get to know the parts of the whole.

Make a commitment to all the individual members of the family. Set aside some special time. My daughter Ellie is able to tell me about each child’s particular personalities. This has helped me understand, bond and even pick out appropriate gifts on special occasions. Ellie is also sensitive to the fact that her step-daughter is the only girl in the pack. She takes time to nurture Maya’s special talents and do girly outings, such as manis and pedis.

Ellies observations on Maya: “I had the privilege of taking this fearless princess to get her ears pierced today.”

Be sensitive to a child in transition.

Children in blended families often undergo multiple transitions on a weekly basis. When returning from one parent to the other, it’s not unusual to experience “re-entry” difficulties. Don’t take any “distance” personally. My own children

“It’s OK to not be OK sometimes.

Blending a family is not an easy job.”

6 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2018

Continued ...

LEFT: Ellie remembers to make oneon-one time with Copeland to keep their relationship strong.

RIGHT: Ellie and her blended family are making new memories every day.

... Continued

had a very difficult time shuffling back and forth to this home and that. Sunday night anxiety and mood swings were a common event. Much will depend on the configuration of the family and the personalities of each of itsmembers. Let each child warm up at their own pace. My grandson Copeland is always very quiet for the first 30 minutes or so when transitioning.Mommy and son cuddle times fit perfectly into these moments.

Hold regular family meetings.

It’s important that each family member feel they have a voice.

Ellie’s observations: “It’s important to give everyone their own space.”

This can happen at a set special time, or it can happen around the dinner table. This is the time to acknowledge difficulties and praise growth. Even the youngest members can participate with their feelings.

In our family we held regular family meetings, and each member took turns heading up the meeting. It wasn’t always comfortable, but it always cleared the air.

Be sensitive to your own transitions.

Ellie’s observations: “The lone wolf dies, but the pack survives.”

You are more set in your ways than you realize. There will be times no matter how much you love your new life that you miss parts of your old life. Own that feeling and don’t buy into any guilt. Ellie finds herself, at times, missing her own uninterrupted space. Find time to step away for brief moments. For some, that could mean curling up with a good book. For others, it means regularly catching up with old friends who knew the old you.

Ellie’s observations: “As a grownup, I hide on the front porch and listen to the rain.”

Find someone to listen to you.

Whether it’s the crazy schedules, sadness at saying goodbye to a child or anger at your child’s biological parent, everyone needs a shoulder to cry on sometimes. There will be many times you simply need to vent to save your sanity. For some it’s a best friend or trusted co-worker.

Many people schedule regular sessions with a therapist. The goal is to be able to get it off your chest. If dealing with an

ex-partner is high on the vent list, its particularly important to take that outside the family unit. Nothing good ever came from bad mouthing a child’s parent in front of the child.

Ellie has found more than one path and the “Mom, I just need to vent” conversations have become part of our mother/daughter bond.

Ellie’s observations: “Breakdown averted. Next breakdown scheduled for next Thursday the 14th. Thanks for always talking me off the ledge!”

Find activities that unite.

Nothing binds like doing activities together as a family. The old saying that the family that plays together stays together has a great deal of truth to it. Ellie and Henry take full advantage to bond as a family with a variety of fun activities, from creative at home projects, such as making cookies, to camping and ice skating.These activities not only connect them, but they are a solid basis for building new family memories.

Ellie’s observations: “Always make time for the things that make you feel happy to be alive!”

Take time out as a couple.

A family is only as good as its strongest parts. It’s important for couples to take some shelter from the storm. For Ellie and Henry, this could be as simple a few stolen moments over a glass of wine or an impromptu vacation for two.

This weekend Ellie and Henry took some time to recharge and recommit while skiing in Vermont.

Ellie’s observations: “Never lose focus on what brought you together. Never lose sight of the love, and let everything else just fall away.”

The overall key to blending families is to never lose sight of love. The struggle is real, but watching Ellie and Henry navigate this new life, the love is easy to see. As an extended family, we are looking forward to all of the love and growth that 2018 promises.

Sharon Cole is a speechlanguage pathologist and proud grandmother based in Albany.

She is the owner of Vocally Clear Communications PLLC. Vocally Clear’s goal is to promote effective communication for all ages. She can be reached at Vocallyclear. com or message her at “British Nanny” on Facebook.

JANUARY 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 7

Triple Threat

parenting triplets in the Capital District

Then and now: 10 years later

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n the beginning, Harlan After my cesarean section, the and I had three babies nurses took such good care of who did not make much me at St. Peter’s Labor and Denoise. There were a few livery. They were kind enough grunts and something that to wipe the tears pooling sounded like a kitten when around my ears and reassure the last of the triplets me that all three babies left the womb. looked good. We by I’ve joked many were prepared for a times that it was stay in the NICU Rebecca giving since most triplets the “all clear,” are preemies and letting everyone need interventions know that all of some kind. We babies were present were still scared. and accounted for. Or Fast forward an entire she was crying because she decade. I am having a hard was alone. I cried because she time believing that I have three was the only baby I was able to 10-year-old children. Just like see for the briefest of seconds before she was whisked into the their mom (oh no!), the kids have started counting down to next room with the others for things such as sleepovers, their evaluations and then off to the Bar and Bat mitzvahs, going NICU as planned.

As they turn 10, the Steuer triplets are looking ahead to new and exciting experiences.

Jennifer Steuer

Newmeadow Preschool

5-hour Integrated Preschool Program Fostering Self-Esteem and Confidence Developing Leadership Skills For Life Prepare Them For Learning.

Prepare Them For Life.

has opened some exciting doors for him. He is now very focused on getting his learner permit so he can drive when he is 16!

He only has six years to study.

Ben plans to be a stay-at-home dad. Harlan and I have both let him know that a trade or an education of some kind is also important. He will be a wonderful father. I thing Benjamin has an amazing role model.

Olivia’s (first baby) amazing and joyful soul has become a beautiful butterfly. Her artistic expression captures different aspects of things that I love to see. According to Olivia, the worst part of the past 10 years is the number of chores. The best parts have been moving to our new house and our new yard with all the great gardens.

Continued on Page 13

Get the word out!

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Send calendar submission by the 5th of the previous month to: Capital District Parent Pages, Attn: Calendar, P.O. Box 100, Delmar, N.Y. 12054 email: robertsk@spotlightnews.com

103642_4

List your event for parents & children in our calendar section.

Clifton Park

8 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2018

I look at pictures of them before they were crawling and talking to remind myself of times when the swing or bouncy chair made them happy.

At 10, it gets a little more complicated because of outside influences. I watch videos we took of them playing outside and hear their squealing, happy voices. All I want for each of my children is for them to be happy with themselves.

Benjamin (second baby) has great plans for the next 10 years of his life. He has been seizure-free since July, which

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places alone, high school and college. Harlan and I keep telling them to not think so far in the future, or they might miss out on wonderful adventures today.

parenting is a full-time job

I

The 24-hour shift

From infertility to adoption

nfertility and adoption are often spoken of in the same breath. If someone is unable to conceive a child, and other resources have been used without success, then adoption is the next logical step, right?

People who are infertile will always be infertile. It doesn’t go away. If someone is infertile and is thinking about adoption, keep in mind that adoption is not a cure, nor does it replace infertility. People who are infertile need to let go of a lot of things that they were hoping for if they were able to conceive a biological child before considering adoption.

A child who is adopted should not be expected to fill a void or “replace” the child the person could not conceive. That is not the child’s responsibility.

Do not pin your hopes and

dreams of the lost child to the adopted one. To state the obvious, your child won’t be like or even look like you. Adopted children bring in their own unique traits and personalities to the family.

Also, even though adoption has a happy ending, the plot has so many twists and turns, ups and downs that “the wait,” as it is sometimes called, makes a roller coaster look boring. You are trading a few hours of physical pain into months worth of heartache.

Adoptive parents never know when “the call” is going to come, or when they will bring home their child. It takes months to finalize an adoption, so a child isn’t yours right away, even if they live with you. It can by take years for a forever family to get to eventually bond. This is especially true for foster families.

There are no gender reveal parties, or baby showers. Sometimes there is no choosing a name either.

Theresa Davis

Adoption is vastly different from expecting your biological child. Parents have nine months to bond with their baby, and then they bring it right home.

Infertile/adoptive parents must accept that they are still grieving a loss, a loss that will impact them in different ways.

Sensitivity toward infertile women is especially welcome

because they are mourning the loss of a power known only to women – carrying a child. An infertile woman will never feel a life growing inside of her, never feeling that first kick, or what giving birth is like. Men won’t get to cut the cord or share the stories of their partner’s labor.

Infertile/adoptive couples may miss out on a lot of things they had been hoping for in the past.

While infertility doesn’t go away, adoption is a fantastic choice, and allows for a whole different experience in bringing a child into your life.

Theresa Davis is a former early childhood educator and has worked in childcare centers for more than 15 years. She is also an adoptive mother, living and taking care of her family in the Capital District.

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JANUARY 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 9

There is no escaping winter in the Capital District, and really, why would you want to? There’s nothing like a brisk day outside to invigorate the senses. There’s no need to hibernate when winter fun is right outside! Below is a roundup of local winter hotspots.

Embrace the ice The ice skating rink at Empire State Plaza is one of the winter jewels of downtown Albany. The rink is open daily through March 11, from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. and skating is free. Special events, including learnto-skate clinics, are scheduled throughout the winter, and skate rentals are available whenever the rink is open for $3 for kids and $4 for adults (free on Fridays). Amenities include a full-service snack bar and a skate lounge with lockers and music.

Skaters of all abilities are welcome, so don’t

10 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2018

worry if your kids are a little wobbly at first – this is a great place for beginners, and skating aids are available.

There are a lot of area skating spots that are ice permitting, so it’s best to check first if weather conditions exist to allow for safe skating. Among those are Swinburne Skating Rink, at 810 Clinton Ave., Albany. The Swineburne rink provides an all-weather protected skating area with free parking available at Bleecker Stadium. Weatherpermitting, the rink is open seven days a week with rates ranging from 50 cents for 18 and younger to $1 for adults. Skate rentals are $3. For hours and ice conditions, call (518) 434-5699.

Other outdoor rinks in the Capital District include: • The Crossings Pond at 580 Albany

Shaker Road, Colonie. Skating is free; call (518) 438-5587 for hours and conditions.

• Saratoga Spa State Park has two seasonal outdoor rinks, off Avenue of Pines and near Victoria Pool. Once again, these rinks are dependent on weather conditions, so a mild winter may make this option unavailable.

• In Glenville, Indian Meadows Town Park offers free, seasonal opportunities for skating. Rinks are open sunrise to sunset, with a warming hut open on weekends.

Hours vary, depending on ice conditions, but when the skating rinks gates are open, the rinks are open.

In the event of an unseasonably warm January, your family can still get a skating fix at a number of indoor facilities, including the Bethlehem YMCA (cdymca.org/lo-

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With outdoor recreation opportunities galore, there’s nothing better than a Capital District snow day! cations/bethlehem-ymca); Albany County Hockey Facility in Loudonville (www. albanycounty.com/Government/Departments/HockeyFacility.aspx); The Weibel Avenue Ice Rink in Saratoga Springs; Clifton Park Ice Arena (www.cliftonparkarena. com); The Conway Ice Rink at HVCC (www.hvcc.edu/facilities/ice.html); and the Schenectady County Recreation Facility ((518) 384-2445) among many others.

Varying usage and rental fees apply, but most come in well under $5 per person.

Skiing, hills or no There are plenty of ski resorts within a short drive of the Capital District (it’s the Northeast, after all), but there is also one right in our own backyard, which makes a nice option for families looking to make it an easy low-key day of outdoor fun.

Maple Ski Ridge in Schenectady is open weekdays from 3-8 p.m., and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. You can rent everything you need to get started on site for $25-$30 per day. Day passes range from $26-$38. Visit mapleskiridge.com for more information.

can pick some used ones up on the cheap at Play It Again Sports in Latham), area state parks, town parks and golf course also provide ample skiing trails for any skill level.

If cross-country skiing is more your speed, check out the miles of groomed woodland trails at Pineridge Cross Country Ski Area in East Poestenkill. Lessons, ski rentals, guided tours, a warming lodge, and a retail shop are all available. Rates range from $9-$20, with free skiing for those 6 and under. They even offer firsttime skier packages that include a lesson, ski rental and day use fee. Reservations are recommended. Visit pineridgexc.com for more information.

Let’s talk sledding hills. This is the very best free winter activity there is, and sledding is also a fantastic way to burn those midwinter calories. Everyone has a favorite hill, but it’s important to gauge a sledding hill by how appropriate it is for your child’s age. Super-fast and steep hills are great fun for tweens and older kids, but they present a risk for young ones. Really great hills, like the one at Tawasentha Park in Guilderland, have different “runs” that appeal to different ages. It’s also important to remind your kids of some sledding

If you have your own skis already (you

It’s all downhill

Continued on Page 18 JANUARY 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 11

n u P F a s g d i e K Coloring Fun

12 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2018

Creative Word Find

ARTIST ARTWORK COLOR CRAFTS

DECORATE FASHION INSTRUMENT MUSIC

PAINTING PHOTOGRAPH RECIPE THEME

Local faces

Picture your child on our cover We are currently accepting photos of local children to be featured on Parent Pages’ glossy covers throughout the year.

Y

Check out some of last year’s covers!

ou’ve always known your child should be in the pictures, and now is your chance to get his or her photo displayed prominently on the cover of the premier parenting publication in the Capital District.

It is our mission to run photos of local kids being their awesome selves each and every month, and we need your help.

We are looking for high-resolution portraits and candids.

Covers are planned out far in advance, so we will be accepting photos featuring all of the seasons. Keep in mind our cover dimensions, and choose pictures that aren’t too busy and feature your child’s face prominently. Email your submissions to Pictures robertsk@spotlightnews.com with “Parent Pages cover submission” in the subject must be at line. Please include your child’s name, age least 8-by-10 and hometown. Also needed is a current inches with a phone number or email where you can be reached. resolution

Photos may be used at any point throughout the year.

n Triple Threat continued from Page 8 When I asked Olivia what she wants to be when she grows up, she says an artist or teacher (maybe an art teacher?) and a mom. That‘s my girl!

The youngest of my trio, Rebecca, is so excited to be 10 years old this month because I told her I might reconsider my ban on sleepovers. I share a passion with Rebecca: reading.

Sometimes I call the kids for dinner, and there is no Rebecca.

I have to go searching for her. I am never sure what little nook or chair I will find her in or what book she will have become so invested in that she doesn’t hear anyone. Rebecca aspires to be a lawyer, librarian or a mother. Or all three.

When Harlan and I started talking about having kids and what that would be like for us, we knew that the goal of having

a healthy baby was possible.

Never in our wildest dreams did we think that we would have three amazing children.

During my pregnancy, we had people who tried to scare us with worst-case scenarios and push us down a road we had no desire to even consider.

Harlan and I knew that having three kids at once would be expensive, but we did the best we could. Now, we are looking at three absolutely amazing 10

year olds who push us to be the best parents possible. Some days are like uncooked Pop Tarts.

Other days are full of hot pizza and lemonade. We just try for fewer Pop Tart and more pizza days.

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JANUARY 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 13

Calendar of events

family fun for January

January

Pick of the month

Teen Time Play games on the PS4, have snacks and talk with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-19. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit www.rensselaerlibrary.org.

Storytelling Evening

Preschool Movies A series of short, literature-based films for children 3-6 and families, 10:15 a.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

A Mule Named Sal: Songs and Stories of the Erie Canal

ARTfull Afternoons

Write to Your Favorite Author Join us and use our supplies to write a letter or draw a picture that we’ll mail to your favorite author, 3-7 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 S Main St, Castleton-On-Hudson.

For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

4 Thursday Peaceful Playgroup A playgroup for babies and toddlers and their caregivers, 9-11:30 a.m. Christ Church, 35 State St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 729-8215.

Read to Lacey Children are invited to read aloud to Lacey, the therapy dog, with 15-minute individual reading time available on a first-come, firstserved basis, 4-5 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 S Main St, Castleton-On-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

3 Wednesday

Children ages 5 to 14 are introduced to art in the collection and exhibitions, then explore the concepts they learn in the Art Studio creating their own masterpieces, 2:30 p.m. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www.hydecollection.org.

8 Monday

Jan.

27

Join musician Dave Ruch for a special concert celebrating the Erie Canal featuring music for all ages on an intriguing assortment of instruments including mandolin, banjo, guitar, jaw harp, bones, spoons and more, 2 p.m. Free. New York State Museum, 222 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 474-5877 or visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

5 Friday Story Art Toddlers and preschoolers can enjoy the museum by listening to a story, exploring objects from the teaching collection and creating a fun art project, 11-11:45 a.m. Free.

New York State Museum, 222 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 4745877 or visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

First Friday Friends

Children ages 12 to 36 months and their parents are invited to the Library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books and puzzles, 10 a.m.

Anime Club Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Join other like-minded anime fans, 5-7 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, p.m. For ages 13-19. Rensselaer Public Library, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

676 East St., Rensselaer. For more informaFamily Movie Night: tion, call (518) 462-1193 or visit www.

The Lego Ninjago Movie rensselaerlibrary.org.

This month’s family movie is The Lego Tours for Tots Ninjago Movie (PG), 6 p.m. All ages welcome.

Children ages 5 and younger learn about Castleton Public Library, 85 S Main St, a work in the museum, then spend time in Castleton-On-Hudson. For more information, the Art Studio making their own creations, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castleton10:30-11:30 a.m. Free with museum publiclibrary.org. admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Cinderella Tales Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit Also Saturday and Sunday. A compilation www.hydecollection.org. of three of the 900 versions of Cinderella: Egyptian Cinderella, The Glass Slipper, 14 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2018

and an Irish Cinder-lad tale Billy Beg & the Bull, 7 p.m. Friday and 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tickets cost $15. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 438-5503 or visit www.steamer10theatre.org.

6 Saturday CSI: Critter Scene Investigation Do you have what it takes to be on a team of nature investigators, solving Pine Bush mysteries, by examining evidence? A 30-minute indoor introduction followed by a 0.9-mile outdoor trek to look for clues and evidence of what lives in the Pine Bush, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cost is $3. For ages 6 and up.

Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush. org.

Art for All Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art studio on Saturdays for drop in art making with activities are based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost is admission of $10-$12. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

Join Bright Forest Storytelling as they perform a variety of stories for all ages, 6:30 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 S Main St, Castleton-On-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

Messy Monday Children and their grown-ups will use playdough, clay, shaving cream, paint, bubbles and other ooey gooey concoctions to make a creative mess, drop in 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost is $5 per child. The Wonder Room, 896 Saratoga Road (Route 50), Ballston Lake. For more information, call 602-0237 or visit www. thewonderroomschool.com.

9 Tuesday Kid’s Urban Art Class w/ Young Futures Young Futures is an organization that is dedicated to providing children with the opportunity to explore and express their creative passion, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Stage 1 – Albany Barn, 56 2nd St., Albany. For more information, visit www.albanybarn.org.

Pine Bush Pups: Neat Feet Also Wednesday. How does the size and shape of an animal’s foot help or hinder walking in the snow? Learn the answer, including how to recognize various animals’ footprints!

A song, book, game, craft and short walk are all included, 10-11 a.m. Register children, not adults. For ages 2-6. Cost is $3. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Preschool Storytime Multi-age level storytimes with an emphasis on early literacy. Books, rhymes, songs, a short video, and an art activity, 10 a.m. For ages 2 to 5 with a caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Continued on the next page

Calendar of events

9 Tuesday (cont.)

Church, 35 State St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 729-8215.

10 Wednesday Teen Time Play games on the PS4, have snacks and talk with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-19. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit www. rensselaerlibrary.org.

ARTfull Afternoons Children ages 5 to 14 are introduced to art in the collection and exhibitions, then explore the concepts they learn in the Art Studio creating their own masterpieces, 2:30 p.m.

Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www. hydecollection.org.

11 Thursday Tours for Tots Children ages 5 and younger learn about a work in the museum, then spend time in the Art Studio making their own creations, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www.hydecollection.org.

Library Tots Children from newborn to 36 months with a caregiver will enjoy choral book reading, action rhymes, and songs all focused on developing your baby’s skills, 9:45 a.m. or 10:45 a.m. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Peaceful Playgroup A playgroup for babies and toddlers and their caregivers, 9-11:30 a.m. Christ

Anime Club Join other like-minded anime fans, 5-7 p.m. For ages 13-19. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit www. rensselaerlibrary.org.

Parachute Play Children ages 3-4, accompanied by an adult are invited to join library staff for songs and games with a parachute, 10 a.m. Registration begins Jan. 2. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park.

For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

12 Friday Tea Rex Party Dress in your finest dino duds and grab a gracious Cretaceous friend to enjoy stories, a craft, cookies and tea. For children up to age 6 with caregiver, 10 a.m. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary. org.

Dental Health Month

Bring awareness of your practice and educate readers about your area of specialty.

Don’t miss this opportunity to advertise in our February issue!

World Language Fridays: Spanish This international story time will include stories and songs in foreign languages and English, plus a craft, 10 a.m. For children ages 3 and up accompanied by an adult; no registration required. Capital Region Learning Center. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park.

For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

13 Saturday

RATES

NYS Great Places and Spaces Celebrate what’s great in New York State history while you take a trip around the state without leaving the museum, noon-4 p.m. An array of the state’s historic sites and cultural institutions offer families fun hands-on activities, educational artifacts to explore, and information on regional events to visit throughout the year. Free. New York State Museum, 222 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 474-5877 or visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

Continued on the next page

(includes full color)

Full Page $ 900 - $ 1,000 1/2 Page $ 750 • 1/4 Page $ 450

ISSUE DATE: February 1, 2018 AD DEADLINE: January 9

Total Distribution – OVER 18,000

p

arent pages The Resource for Parents

Denice Mau (518) 439-4949

103677_4

Be the star of your own library card when we set up the green screen to create a Bad Kitty READ poster that we’ll use to print a personalized library card on the spot. Sign up at www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org for the 2-3:30pm OR 3:304:30pm timeslot. Cards will be processed on a first-come basis. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Capital District

My Best Library Card

FEBRUARY is…

National

family fun for January

maud@spotlightnews.com JANUARY 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 15

Capital District

p

arent pages

Calendar of events 13 Saturday (cont.)

An Introduction to Snowshoeing Drop in for a 30-minute mini-lesson as we go over the basics of how to put snowshoes on (and take them off), walk and turn, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Free, but registration required. Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call (518) 475-0291 or visit www.dec. ny.gov/education/1835.html.

The Resource for Parents

Upcoming Monthly Themes & Deadlines

Cinderella Tales Also Sunday and Monday. A compilation of three of the 900 versions of Cinderella: Egyptian Cinderella, The Glass Slipper, and an Irish Cinder-lad tale Billy Beg & the Bull, 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday. Tickets cost $15. Steamer No. 10 Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 438-5503 or visit www.steamer10theatre.org.

February Children’s Art & Culture Deadline: January 8th

Family Yoga Class Play Explore Yoga incorporates songs, games, traditional yoga poses, arts and crafts and mini-mediation, 10:30 a.m. Sign up is required for this free class for kids ages 3-9 and their caregivers. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit www.rensselaerlibrary.org.

March

Kidz Expo All About Babies/ Family Health Deadline: February 5th

Art for All Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art studio on Saturdays for drop in art making with activities are based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost is admission of $10-$12. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

April

Summer Camp Guide (Part 1) Special Needs Deadline: March 5th

14 Sunday Art Lab

May

Summer Camp Guide (Part 2) Mother’s Day The Family Rensselaer County: Parenting Resources Deadline: April 2nd

A gallery and art-making activity that explores the “A” in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math), 1-4 p.m. For families with children ages 6 and older, but anyone can participate. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www.hydecollection.org.

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call

Owl Investigation

Denice Mau at 439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com

Learn about the owls that live in the Pine Bush Preserve and the signs they leave behind with a short presentation and then dissecting owl pellets, 1-2 p.m. Cost is $3. For ages 8

16 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2018

103644_4

family fun for January

and up. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

15 Monday Lego Jr. Maker Get inspired by readings about building and creativity, then start putting bricks together to make whatever you’d like, 10:30 a.m. For grades K-3 and caregiver; please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Bricks & Blocks Get building with our Lego bricks and Minecraft blocks on the laptops, you can create anything that you can imagine, 2 p.m.

For grades 4-7; please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Dr. MLK, Jr. Family Storytime Share stories about Dr. King, friendship, respect and celebrating each other with a craft to follow, 11 a.m. This is a drop-in storytime for children ages 5 and up and their families.

Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Super Stinky Storytime Enjoy a stinky tale or two, test your sense of smell and create some fake poop to take home, 10 a.m. For children ages 3 and up with caregiver. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary. org.

STEM Challenge: Spaghetti and Marshmallow Towers Work in teams to see how tall you can build a tower using only spaghetti and marshmallows, 2:30-3:15 p.m. For grades K-5. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Meet the Ozobot Evo Check out the newest Ozobot — the Evo. The Evo has sensors to react to changes in its environment and a social personality, 6:307:30 p.m. For grades K-12. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

Calendar of events

family fun for January

Preschool Storytime Theme-based, multi-age level storytimes with an emphasis on early literacy. Books, rhymes, songs, a short video, and an art activity, 10 a.m. For ages 2 to 5 with a caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.17

Teen Time Play games on the PS4, have snacks and talk with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-19. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit www.rensselaerlibrary.org.

Mend-A-Bear Drop in with your stuffed animals or dog toys for free mending by Kathy Meyer, 6-7 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 S Main St, Castleton-On-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

17 Wednesday ARTfull Afternoons Children ages 5 to 14 are introduced to art in the collection and exhibitions, then explore the concepts they learn in the Art Studio creating their own masterpieces, 2:30 p.m. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www.hydecollection.org.

18 Thursday Library Tots Children from newborn to 36 months with a caregiver will enjoy choral book reading, action rhymes, and songs all focused on developing your baby’s skills, 9:45 a.m. or 10:45 a.m. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Tours for Tots Children ages 5 and younger learn about a work in the museum, then spend time in the Art Studio making their own creations, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www.hydecollection.org.

Peaceful Playgroup A playgroup for babies and toddlers

and their caregivers, 9-11:30 a.m. Christ Church, 35 State St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 729-8215.

Anime Club Join other like-minded anime fans, 5-7 p.m. For ages 13-19. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit www.rensselaerlibrary.org.

20 Saturday Robots and Coding Play with robots and learn about coding and how a 3D printer works, 1 p.m. For ages 4-12. No sign-up needed. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit www.rensselaerlibrary.org.

Children’s Star Sighting Interactive program identifies stars, planets, comets and constellations in the night sky, 11 a.m. Geared to children ages 3-7 and their families. $3 all seats. Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center, 25 Quackenbush Square, Albany. For more information, visit www.albany.org.

Art for All

rhymes, songs, a short video, and an art activity, 10 a.m. For ages 2 to 5 with a caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

tion, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www. castletonpubliclibrary.org.

25 Thursday Tours for Tots

Kid’s Urban Art Class w/ Young Futures Young Futures is an organization that is dedicated to providing children with the opportunity to explore and express their creative passion, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Stage 1 – Albany Barn, 56 2nd St., Albany.

For more information, visit www. albanybarn.org.

24 Wednesday Teen Time Play games on the PS4, have snacks and talk with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-19. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit www.rensselaerlibrary.org.

Recycled Art Come make cool art using recycled items, 3-6 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 S Main St, Castleton-On-Hudson. For more informa-

Children ages 5 and younger learn about a work in the museum, then spend time in the Art Studio making their own creations, 10:3011:30 a.m. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www.hydecollection.org.

Library Tots Children from newborn to 36 months with a caregiver will enjoy activities to develop baby’s skills, 9:45 a.m. or 10:45 a.m. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Peaceful Playgroup A playgroup for babies and toddlers and their caregivers, 9-11:30 a.m. Christ Church, 35 State St., Troy. For more information, call (518) 729-8215.

Continued on the next page

Adults and children of all ages are welcome to join us in the Albany Institute art studio on Saturdays for drop in art making with activities are based on current exhibitions, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost is admission of $10-$12. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

Duct Tape Crafts A rainbow of duct tape to match your imagination, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 S Main St, Castleton-OnHudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

22 Monday PJ Story Time A quiet story time for working parents to spend with their children, ages 2-6, 6:15 p.m.

Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

23 Tuesday

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16 Tuesday

Preschool Storytime Theme-based, multi-age level storytimes with an emphasis on early literacy. Books,

JANUARY 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 17

Calendar of events 26 Friday World Language Fridays: Japanese This international story time will include stories and songs in foreign languages and English, plus a craft, 10 a.m. For children ages 3 and up accompanied by an adult; no registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more

Submit an event

family fun for January

information, call 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

The NeverEnding Story

27 Saturday Stories, Songs and Yoga Stretches Learn the concept of yoga through very simple poses, intertwined with some of our favorite stories, as well as play some fun yoga games, 10:30 a.m. For ages 3-7 with parent or caregiver. Please register. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvil-

• Tork’s Hill in Voorheesville

continued from Page 11

Get back to nature

etiquette before they go zooming off. You should always check below to make sure the sledder ahead of you has finished their run and knows you are on your way down. It’s also not a bad idea to have your child wear a helmet on the bigger hills. Accidents can happen quickly if you are not careful.

The nature centers in the area don’t hibernate when it gets cold. Expect to find a full schedule of family activities, from snowshoeing to bird watching, throughout the winter. Most activities are free or available for a nominal cost.

Other popular sledding hills in the Capital District include: • Capital Hills Golf Course and Lincoln Park in Albany • Elm Avenue Park in Bethlehem • Frear Park in Troy • Kinns Road Park in Clifton Park • Schenectady’s Central Park • Indian Meadows in Glenville

18 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2018

Art for All

Adults and children of all ages are welcome on Saturdays for drop in art making, Also Saturday and Sunday. A boy who needs a friend, finds a world that needs a hero, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cost is admission of 7 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Saturday $10-$12. Albany Institute of History & Art, and Sunday. Tickets cost $15. Steamer No. 10 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit Theatre, 500 Western Ave., Albany. For more www.albanyinstitute.org. information, call (518) 438-5503 or visit www.steamer10theatre.org.

• To have your event included in our print edition, email the information, including date, time, place, cost and contact information to robertsk@ spotlightnews.com by the 10th of the preceding month. Events run space permitting, and submission does not guarantee publication.

n Winter wonderland

lelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Five Rivers Environmental Education Center is located in the Town of Bethlehem and boasts easy trails for snowshoeing and winter hiking for all abilities and an indoor nature center with animals and educational displays. See their schedule of events at www. dec.ny.gov/education/1835. html.

The Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center, located in Thacher State Park, offers yearround educational programs, and trails for hiking and skiing lead from the nature center to

29 Monday PJ Story Time

A quiet story time for working parents to spend with their children, ages 2-6, 6:15 p.m.

Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Teen Time Play games on the PS4, have snacks and talk with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-19. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St., Rensselaer. For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit www.rensselaerlibrary.org.

Cool Science: Marshmallow Catapults Make catapults and experiment with the laws of physics using marshmallows, 4-6 p.m. Castleton Public Library, 85 S Main St, Castleton-On-Hudson. For more information, call (518) 732-0879 or visit www.castletonpubliclibrary.org.

31 Wednesday

30 Tuesday

ARTfull Afternoons

Preschool Storytime

Children ages 5 to 14 are introduced to art in the collection, then explore the concepts they learn to create their own masterpieces, 2:30 p.m. Free with museum admission of $12. Hyde House Art Museum & Historic House, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls.

For more information, call (518) 792-1761 or visit www.hydecollection.org.

Multi-age level storytimes with an emphasis on early literacy. Books, rhymes, songs, a short video, and an art activity, 10 a.m. For ages 2 to 5 with a caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791. the lake, through woodlands and fields. Kids and adult snowshoes are available to borrow at $5 per pair for guided snowshoe hikes. Visit the New York State Parks website for more information.

The Albany Pine Bush Preserve holds numerous family programs and guided hikes throughout the winter, with snowshoes available to borrow with program registration. Go to www.albanypinebush.org for schedules and information.

Spend the weekend exploring the winter trails at Wilton Wildlife Preserve with $5 ski and snowshoes rentals. Kids and adult sizes are available.

Visit www.wiltonpreserve.org for more information.

Festivals for all For those hearty souls that find it more festive when it’s freezing, there are a couple of winter festivals in January that

will fit the bill.

On Saturday, Jan. 27, chill out at the 23rd Annual Frost Faire at Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater. The event will be held snow or no snow. If there’s snow, BYO sled for a turn on the “Big Hill.”

Enjoy wagon rides, a noontime nature walk and scavenger hunt, campfire and hot cocoa, along with a number of indoor activities such as crafts, games and dancing. The event takes place from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and is free.

The Huyck Winter Festival opens the month of February.

Kicking off at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 3, at the Huyck Preserve and Biological Research Station in Rensselaerville, the event features sledding, ice skating, ice fishing and rescue demonstrations, along with hot cocoa, indoor activities and an artisan market. Plus, it’s all free!

Our students say it all.

Love of learning

is what it’s all about for students at Rochester School for the Deaf.

Since 1876, our students have been discovering the

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H Focusing on infant, early childhood, K-12 grades, up to age 21

H Sign language learning programs and community outreach services

Get in touch today and give your student the love of learning.

Lily, 2nd Grade signing “Love”

Rochester School for the Deaf Celebrating our 140th Year!

1545 St. Paul Street | Rochester, NY 14621 585-544-1240 • www.RSDeaf.org • email info@RSDeaf.org 103649_4

JANUARY 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 19

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20 PARENT PAGES — JANUARY 2018