Capital District Parent Pages October 2018

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Inside:

October calendar listings

arent pages

Capital District

Volume 22 • Number 10 • OCTOBER 2018 • Complimentary

No substitute for sisters

The Resource for Parents

Adoption and attachment A path to reading

cdparentpages.com OCTOBER 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 1

We’re all about family.

At Burdett Birth Center, we want your birth experience to be as special as your new infant.

That’s why we offer a range of personal options to make your experience your own, including access to highly-experienced OB/GYN and midwife providers, as well as private rooms and state-of-the-art services. Childbirth education and support groups are also available.

Burdett Birth Center. A family experience.

Located on the second floor of Samaritan Hospital in the heart of Troy. burdettbirthcenter.org | 2215 Burdett Avenue, Suite 200, Troy, NY 12180 | (518) 271-3393 | 105591_4

Herman and Libbie Michaelson Early Childhood Education Center at Temple Israel Is your little one ready for preschool?

We are excited to announce our newly expanded 5 day per week Hebrew Immersion Class….. this is a wonderful way to give your child the gift of learning a foreign language!

He is ready to play with friends She is ready for art activities, music, circle time and more!

What do you do?

Come check out The Herman and Libbie Michaelson Early Childhood Center at Temple Israel The teachers at Temple Israel are experts in the field of Early Childhood Education and truly understand what makes each child be their best!

• Programming available 2, 3, 4 or 5 days per week!

• Classes for children ages 18 months – 5 years

• Child care is available from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and can be used regularly or on a drop in basis.

For information about our program or to arrange a tour, please call Amie Bloom (518) 438-7858 x120.

We are located at 600 New Scotland Avenue right next to St. Peter’s Hospital.

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• Woodworking, music, art and gardening are part of our daily curriculum

Our pages are your pages

O

ne of my favorite things about being a part of Capital District Parent Pages is interacting with our community of readers.

It is you, the readers, who supply the pictures for our glossy covers every month — not some generic photo service. Every child we feature lives in the Capital District, and it is always a thrill when I get to tell the parents we selected their photo for a particular month. Sometimes it will be a photo that was sent nearly a year before but has just come back into “season,” like the autumn scene on this month’s cover. Please see the guidelines at the bottom of the page if you would like to submit your own cover photo.

Over the years, our readers have become contributors, too. Parent Pages reader Jennifer Steuer reached out to us to start her Triple Threat column as a way to share her frustrations and joys of parenting triplets. Her unvarnished honesty has made regular readers, like me, feel almost like an extension of her family as we get a first-hand look at their life together.

Other local columnists have made their mark and moved on. Longtime readers will remember The Family Chow, who reviewed local restaurants from the viewpoints of Mom, Dad and the kids. It was a fun look at the realities of family dining.

(What’s on the menu that a kid who only likes hamburgers will eat?) For many years Kitchen Table Talk and then Grandma’s Got Gigs gave some grandmotherly advice on ways to engage in intergenerational learning and fun. Among our past Parent Pages contributors, we’ve also had a local doula, a parent coach, a mom raising an autistic son and a dad with a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor.

Each and every one has added something special to this community, but there is room for more. We are always accepting written contributions about parenting in the Capital District for possible publication in upcoming editions of Parent Pages.

Do you have a unique point of view you’d like to share with others in the area? Let us hear about it! As parents, we take strength in the communities we build, including the one we experience through Parent Pages.

As always, thanks for reading. Check out our articles and resource listings at www. cdparentpages.com and mail your story ideas and pictures to Capital District Parent Pages, P.O. Box 100, Delmar, NY 12054, or e-mail me at robertsk@spotlightnews.com.

Kristen Roberts, Editor, Capital District Parent Pages

On the cover: Chase,7, Blake, 5, and Drew, 18 months, are all smiles on a sunny autumn day in this picture submitted by their mom, Alix, and taken by Ashley Brown Photography. 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.

p Capital District

Editor’s desk

arent pages The Resource for Parents

October 2018 Features Kids that give Understanding anxiety

9 10-11

Columnists Let’s Cook Triple Threat

5 6-7

24-Hour Shift

8

What’s new On the Bookshelf Kids fun page

4 12

Resources Calendar 13-18

publisher - John

McIntyre Roberts advertising sales - Denice Mau art director - David Abbott graphic design - Martha Eriksen editor - Kristen

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

OCTOBER 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 3

On the Bookshelf

Spooky stories are a treat ‘Stumpkin’

‘Samurai Scarecrow: A Very Ninja Halloween’

by Lucy Ruth Cummins

by Rubin Pingk

Stumpkin is the most handsome pumpkin on the block, there’s just one problem, he has a stump, not a stem. Will anyone give Stumpkin his chance to shine? Atheneum Books

A little ninja embarks on a season of carving pumpkins and planning a costume with his samurai friends before his adoring sister copies him one too many times, provoking an outburst that he later regrets.

Simon & Schuster

‘Mother Ghost: Nursery Rhymes for Little Monsters’

by Rachel Kolar; illustrated by Roland Garrigue From “Mary, Mary, Tall and Scary” to “Wee Willie Werewolf,” this collection of classic nursery rhymes turned on their heads will give readers the chills – and a case of belly laughs. Sleeping Bear Press

The Capital Region’s music school of choice for more than

40 years

Beginning in October at

THE MUSIC STUDIO Classes for Young Children (ages 2-4) Classes for Children with Special Needs (ages 4-8)

Call 518-459-7799 TheMusicStudio.com facebook.com / themusicstudiotms

1237 Central Avenue • Albany, NY • 518-459-7799

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Let’s Cook! by

Jodie Fitz

S

A breakfast to flip for

chool mornings can be hectic, with family members running in all directions as they prepare for the day ahead.

Sometimes it’s all you can do to get a bowl of cereal or a piece of fruit into your child before they bolt out the door.

Thank goodness for weekends!

It’s a great time to slow down over breakfast, like these yummy

blueberry pancakes. Since you’re not in a rush, let the kids help out in the kitchen. Not only is it good family bonding time, it also reinforces math, reading, motor skills and more.

PICK YOUR OWN PUMPKINS GOURDS & INDIAN CORN

Fun activities in a unique farm and country setting in the beautiful Schoharie Valley

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.

September 22 - October 31

Blueberry Pancakes $5 per person/2 and under Free 105548_4

please Join us For Our

FAll FAMIly FuN DAy 1 egg 1 ¼ cup all-purpose, unbleached flour 1 cup milk ¼ cup brown sugar 4 oz. cinnamon applesauce 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon sea salt 1 cup blueberries, fresh Rinse the blueberries and let dry.

Beat the egg in a bowl with a whisk until fluffy. Using a whisk, stir together the egg, flour, milk, brown

sugar, applesauce baking powder, vanilla extract and sea salt.

Use a spoon stir in the blueberries.

Cook the blueberry pancakes on a preheated griddle that has been treated with non-stick cooking spray or butter. Cook the pancakes over low to medium heat on one side until they are toasted and the edges begin to change and the center starts to bubble before flipping to cook the other side and middle of the pancake.

saturday, October 13 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. $5 per person Games, music, arts and crafts, and food.

Sponsored by Friends of

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apply now foR fall

2019

Toddler • Early Childhood • Elementary • Middle School

saturday, november 17 12:30-3 pm saturday, January 12 snow Date Jan.26 12:30-3 pm 100 Montessori Place • north Greenbush • woodlandhill.orG 105545_4

OCTOBER 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 5

Triple Threat

parenting triplets in the Capital District

No substitute for sisters M

The bond can be intense – in good times and bad

y sister Janet and I really got to be friends when I was 21 and she was 14 years old.

She came to visit me for the weekend at Russell Sage College, and it cemented our bond as friends. Sisters are so intense in their feelings for each other. Sometimes it can feel like a love/hate thing, and sometimes sisters just never get to the point of being friends.

To me that is just heartbreaking.

Now, I have a brother. I love my brother, and he’s a very cool guy. He is the uncle who tries to get the kids to do all kinds of cool things. I have serious respect and love for John.

by

Olivia and Rebecca are the kind of sisters that I can see living in the same town, possibly in the same building, so that their kids can grow up together. They will be the sisters that walk around the city together repeating the phrase: “When we were kids, all of this was strip malls and car dealerships!” My girls will wander around as little old ladies holding hands and hiking up their underpants because the elastic is shot. They will visit

Jennifer Steuer

Janet and I shared a room for almost 12 years. There is so much trouble two girls can get into in 12 years! We would fight. We would talk. We would laugh and just

6 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2018

be silly. We tormented each other the way big sisters and little sisters do. Our room was spotless … unless it was a huge mess. I remember the bunkbeds we had and matching comforter and sheet sets with little blue flowers.

Continued on Page 7

n Triple Threat continued from Page 6 the library (or whatever the place is that has access to books), go to the grocery store and then carry their bags back to their shared assisted living facility apartment bickering the entire way.

They love each other but feel the need to contradict whatever the other says … or agree with 100 percent. It’s painful to sit near them and listen to a conversation because I want to jump in and solve something that isn’t a problem for them or even my problem to solve.

My girls are sisters. They are friends. They are enemies. The majority of life’s events will happen right around the same time, which is leading to some pretty interesting conversations at dinner. Sometimes, Harlan thinks he is being super sly with his secret language, or Benjamin will break the code, announcing with ignorance what a period is, what a sticky pad is for and why chocolate is a necessity. This generally leads to some Girlsplainin’!

I can also see the parts of sisterhood that are less than sweet and more WWE Slamfest. Apparently, the hair pulling during a fight is a genetic thing that gets triggered by hormones. I watched it happen with a weird sense of awe. I’ve seen my sweet little girls turn vicious toward each other.

NHL players don’t drop their gloves and go after the opposing team as fast as my girls.

What I have also seen are two girls who already know that the sister bond is special. Olivia and Rebecca know that there is something that holds them together for the rest of their lives. When they get older and graduations, marriages and babies start coming, I have a feeling my girls will bounce ideas and look to each other for help. Benjamin is a special part of their lives as their brother, but that is a different dynamic.

Olivia and Rebecca are two very different young ladies. Each has different goals. I do see that spark. I see a bond that began before the girls were born. I see my daughters sharing a bed and reading stories into the summer night, giggling and hearing the future that I hoped was possible.

I watch the relationship grow and the trust build. More than once, my devious darlings have brought me joy beyond measure and given me the gift of seeing them in my mind, all grown up.

Sisters. There is just no substitute.

Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom whose busy household includes her husband, Harlan, and 10-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca.

Follow her on Instagram: jennifersteuer.

They love each other but feel the need to contradict whatever the other says … or agree with 100 percent.

It’s painful to sit near them and listen to a conversation because I want to jump in and solve something that isn’t a problem for them or even my problem to solve.

OCTOBER 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 7

The 24-hour shift

parenting is a full-time job

The importance of attachment

W

hen thinking about, planning for or finalizing an adoption, an important factor to consider is attachment. Attachment in the most basic sense is when a child will attach to an adult who meets their needs consistently, and the adult will reciprocate and attach to the child they are caring for.

Attachment is important in two ways. It can help us understand the “why.” Like why a child may want to go home despite what has occurred there, any harm that has come to the child, and the conditions of the physical environment. Also, it helps with breaking the ice when a child first enters a new home.

Some foster families might wonder, “How can she want to go home? This house is clean,

she gets clean clothes, good food. She is one ungrateful kid!”

But no matter what happened or didn’t happen, you could put a child in a palace, and they would still miss and love their family. Despite your feelings about the birth family, you need to respect them and the child. Tell the child it’s OK to miss and love their family, even if they will not be returned home. Assure them that your home is their home as well.

Start forming an attachment right away when a child first comes into your home, and start small. You may have to understand their home language first, or they may be reluctant to ask for anything right away. Provid-

ing for their needs first is a gateway for deeper things such as finding out their likes, dislikes, talents and pursuits. Just be present when your child is near you, even if they are not interacting with you.

Do something that by doesn’t absorb all your attention.

This will show you are there for them.

Theresa Davis

Bear in mind that with older foster children and foster children that have moved from home to home a lot, attachment might be a struggle. Give it a lot of time and a lot of space.

They are reluctant to attach with you because it’s a survival tactic.

They don’t expect to be with you long, so they don’t want to settle in too comfortably. They

may have attached to a family early on, but had to move out to another family. Don’t treat them as guests, even though they may act like it. Give them what they need, and again, be present. You may get pushed away, but keep at it and don’t take it personally.

Attachment is essential in forming a lasting bond with your forever child, and it helps us as adoptive parents see why a child behaves or thinks the way they do when they come into a new home. A child who gets the time and attention they deserve is more likely to become strong, healthy and happy.

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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8 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2018 AGX-2A001D 3.5x10 4CMG.indd

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Good deeds

Albany County Executive Dan McCoy thanked sisters McKenna and Caidyn Mahan for their charitable work at the unveiling of their little library.

Trail blazers

Two Bethlehem children are reminding their neighbors that age is not a barrier when it comes to giving back to their community.

McKenna Mahan, 5, and her sister, Caidyn, 8, recently asked their grandfather to build a free “mini-library” near the intersection of Hudson Avenue and Adams Street in Delmar. Installed last month on the HelderbergHudson Rail Trail, it aims to encourage locals to stop and read while enjoying the trail, as well as inspire people to donate books of their own to it.

kids at Albany Med, [and] they raised over $4,000 from a lemonade stand to benefit a police officer fighting cancer,” he said.

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Sisters set up a little library along the Helderberg-Hudson path in Bethlehem

Bethlehem Supervisor David VanLuven noted the importance of individuals’ efforts for the greater community and how “it’s particularly inspiring that we see by it expand generations, where we have the grandfather building [the mini-library] … and the girls actually making it happen.

It’s a multi-generational thing, and that’s what makes a town into a community.”

“People can stop and take a break and read a book or donate a book,” said Caidyn.

“Reading can make you smart and it’s fun!”

During the unveiling, Albany County Executive Dan McCoy thanked the Mahan sisters for their past charitable efforts.

“They both have donated blankets to hospice, food to the Ronald McDonald House, sent [Valentine’s Day] cards to the

McCoy said the mini-library “gives more people interaction.

It gives [families] an opportunity to coach [their kids] into the library and say, ‘Hey, get a book, let’s read it as you’re walking, put it back, exchange books.’ Again, it probably is about getting kids away from their controllers, their Xbox and Wii and PlayStation, and getting them to get outside to exercise. … We can educate our kids as we have them out on the Rail Trail without them realizing what we’re doing.”

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Diego Cagara

OCTOBER 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 9

Addressing school an

Educators urge families with students of all ages to be aware o

A

fter about a month into the new school year, most young people are starting to learn the routines and expectations of the classroom, but it is normal for students to feel anxious and uncertain about this time. This goes for kindergarteners through 12thgraders, as well as university students.

Anxiety, which is characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts and physical changes like increased blood pressure, is something high schoolers routinely deal with, according to Kimberly Leva, the department coordinator for school counseling at Colonie Central High School.

by

“There are many smartphone apps out there to help students with stress management or support relaxation and mindfulness,” she said. “There are even apps for meditation.”

She said that students should be aware of their college’s resources,like counseling centers and academic advising offices.

Diego Cagara

Leva said that some anxious high school students confide in friends first before their families, while others “shut themselves off and don’t tell anyone.”

Dr. Dolores Cimini, director for behavioral health promotion and applied research and an adjunct clinical professor at the University at Albany, focuses on college students and how the transition to college is very significant for many.

She said that high school lives are structured with classes. Parents and friends are more present, and students generally have daily emotional and financial support. But upon entering college, there is a higher expectation of independence, and there’s less structure, as students may move away from home and can select a flexible schedule of classes.

“Students are expected to handle schedules, finances, social lives, work lives in some cases, health issues and, on top of that, demanding classes,” Cimini said. “It can explain why anxiety is very common among college students. In fact, it’s the No. 1 mental health concern in college.”

She also cited higher pressure to succeed academically and land a paying job, as well as competition within college.

10 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2018

For university students, Cimini recommended practicing good time management and creating a schedule to pace one’s studying and avoid procrastination.

Heidi Andrade, associate professor in educational psychology and methodology at the University at Albany, said students are rarely taught explicitly how to manage their learning and motivation, and self-regulate their emotions.

Leva said ninth-graders are more likely to have anxiety about the new school and building, since they are making the transition from being the oldest in middle school and now “have to start over as being the youngest in high school.”

“Anxiety is part of being a teenage high school student,” she said. “But when it manifests into something more extreme, that’s when you may have a student who either has stomachaches, headaches or maybe tell their parents they don’t feel well. If there’s a repeat of that, it can be an indicator of anxiety. In severe anxiety bouts, students may cry or literally shake in the classroom.”

“It’s really a tough balancing act,” she said.

“It sounds straightforward but many don’t know how to best stay motivated and develop strategies for learning,” Andrade said.

Students may develop a negative habit where if they are failing academically, they assume teachers will not help them because they think they are unintelligent. Lack of sleep, having nightmares, hiding and saying, “I don’t want go to school!” are all signs of worsening anxiety.

“There’s things they may fear, too, like bullying, drug abuse, sexual abuse, peer pressure and, good grief, school shootings,” Andrade said.

But when anxious emotions start to creep in, Andrade has some simple advice.

“This might sound ridiculous, but breathe,” she said. “When anxiety happens, [students] start breathing shallowly, which physically tells their body they’re panicked.”

Cimini, Leva and Andrade all suggested that young people be encouraged to be open with peers and family, and that family members and school officials be informed of the seriousness of anxiety, with professional help being an option.

Parents should also know that anxiety is something educators are on the lookout for, too.

“Anxiety is a very important topic, and we want kids to feel comfortable and confident to be successful,” said Principal Dave Ksanznak at Hamagrael Elementary School. In Bethlehem “We want to work with [the students] and their families. If they’re happy and comfortable, they’re going to learn.”

anxiety

are of the signs “Anxiety is part of being a teenage high school student. ... But when it manifests into something more extreme, that’s when you may have a student who either has stomachaches, headaches or maybe tells their parents they don’t feel well. If there’s a repeat of that, it can be an indicator of anxiety.” ‑­ Kimberly Leva, department coordinator for school counseling at Colonie Central High School

OCTOBER 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 11

n u F s d i K e g Pa

Color By Number

Color By Numbers 1- black 2-pink 3-red 4-purple 5-grey 6-brown 7-blue

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

12 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2018

Calendar of events

family fun for October

October 1 Monday

2 Tuesday

3 Wednesday

Library Tots

Preschool Storytime

Library Friends Play Time

Join Miss Amy at 9:45 or 10:45 a.m. for an early literacy program that emphasizes sharing books, flannel board stories, music, rhymes, and playtime together. For children from newborn to 36 months. Attend either session; no registration required. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Theme-based, multi-age level storytimes with an emphasis on early literacy. Books, rhymes, PJ Story Time songs, a short video, and an art activity, 10 a.m. For ages 2 to 5 with caregiver. Voorheesville Library, Relax with a quiet story time for working parents and their children, ages 2-6, 6:15 p.m. Pajamas 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) encouraged. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, 765-2791. call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Pre-K Storytime

Submit an event

Drop-in storytime for ages 2-6, 11 a.m. Siblings welcome. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St, Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.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.

Chess Club Sign up for one session per night and try your hand at chess with teen volunteers, 5:30-6:30 OR 6:30-7:30 p.m. All experience levels welcome. For grades K-5.

Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar.

For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Children and their parents are invited to the library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books, and puzzles, 1:15 p.m.

For ages 3-6. No registration required; siblings welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

4 Thursday Family Fun Outdoors After School Get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and have fun outdoors after school with a different theme each week, 4:30-5:30 p.m. For children in grades K-5 and their caregivers. 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.

Science Explorers Discover the different ways in which science is all around us, 10:30 a.m. For all ages. Free with museum admission. The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 584-5540 or visit cmssny.org.

MERRITT

Marvel Universe Live Also Friday, Saturday and Sunday. An actionpacked, legendary battle to defend the universe from evil with Spider-Man, the Avengers and the Guardians of the Galaxy joining forces with Doctor Strange, 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Saturday; and noon and 4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets start at $15 plus fees. Times Union Center, 51 S. Pearl St., Albany. For more information, call (518) 487-2000 or visit www. timesunioncenter-albany.com.

Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-18. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St, Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot).

For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

E N T ER E CRecreation C N & DA Recreation & Competitive Dance

Competitive Dance

Pre-school through Advanced Levels ••Pre-school through Advanced Levels

★ TAP BALLET ★ ACRO/GYM H TAP★H JAZZ JAZZ H★BALLET H ACRO/GYM ★ TWIRLING BATON TWIRLING HIP HOP H BATON H HIP HOP H★KINDERDANCE ★ KINDERDANCE

LOWCOMBINATION COMBINATION RATES LOW RATES 105547_4

Still SUMMER Time to Register!

Beginner thru Advanced Classes DANCE CAMP

Certified by Dance Masters of America & Dance August 6 -Educators 9 of America 1360 Albany Street (2 miles below Mohawk Commons) Certified by Dance Masters of America &

518-372-5282 • www.merrittdancecenter.com Dance Educators of America 1360 Albany Street

(2 miles below Mohawk Commons)

372-5282

Get the word out!

www.merrittdancecenter.com

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

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

OCTOBER 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 13

Capital District

p

arent pages

Calendar of events 5 Friday World Smile Day Family Fun Night A fundraiser for a goal of 700 surgeries with Smile Train for the 1 in 700 children born with a cleft palate, with food, DJ, games and prizes, 4-7 p.m. A $20 suggested donation per family. Afrim’s Sports, 636 Albany Shaker Road. To donate, visit www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3580956.

The Resource for Parents

Ghosts of Albany Walking Tour

Upcoming Monthly Themes & Deadlines

Also Saturday and Sunday. Hear stories of ghosts, antique sites, scandalous tales, haunted places, mysterious sightings of apparitions, strange and unusual accounts of centuries past, legendary stories, folklore and the supernatural intrigues of Albany, 8-9:30 p.m. The tour starts in front of the Hilton Albany, 40 Lodge St., Albany. Price is $15$30 depending on the date. For further information, go to our website at www.ghostsofalbany. com or telephone (718) 591-4741 or our email at drphil@nycwalks.com.

November

Santa’s Arrival Holiday Happenings Holiday Road Trips Deadline: October 9th

Keepsake Trick-or-Treat Bag Listen to a spooky story, then decorate a small fabric bag, 10 a.m. Sign up each child individually.

For 18 months and older with family and friends.

Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

December

Library Friends Play Time

The Holidays Theatre Deadline: November 5th

Children and their parents are invited to the library to play with others while using age appropriate toys, books, and puzzles, 9:10 a.m. For ages 12 to 36 months. No registration required; siblings welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

January

Story Art

Winter Sports & Activities Staying Healthy Deadline: December 3rd

Enjoy the Museum by listening to a story, exploring objects from the teaching collection and creating a fun art project, 11 a.m. For toddlers and preschoolers. Free. New York State Museum, Albany. For more information call (518) 474-0079 or visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

6 Saturday Brilliant and Bristly Buckmoths

February

Discover the amazing world of the buckmoth, a large beautiful moth with bold black and white wings that flies for only a brief window of time during daylight in the early fall, 11 a.m. For all ages.

Free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany.

For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

Children’s Art & Culture Deadline: January 7th

Beaded Ornament Workshop

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call

Denice Mau at 439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com 14 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2018

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Learn to create a beaded strawberry pin cushion/ornament with Mohawk artist Wilma Cook Zumpano, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. All materials for this workshop will be provided with the $40 registration fee. For ages 12 to adult. Iroquois Indian

family fun for October

Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave. For more information, visit www.iroquoismuseum.org or call (518) 296-8949

Old Growth Forest Hike Take a hike to the old growth forest and marvel at these tree giants with science educator George Steele, 1-3:30 p.m. Cost is $5 per person and $15 per family for members; $15 per person and $25 per family for nonmembers. Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance. For more information, call (518) 875-6935.

7 Sunday Carrot Festival Enjoy delicious food, fun activities for children, more than 50 vendors and crafters, a community service tent, a farmer’s market, a “Touch-a-Truck (and more)” area, a pet adoption clinic, voter registration, and of course carrot cake, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Music and entertainment are scheduled throughout the day, featuring a special afternoon concert by The Accents. Congregation Agudat Achim, 2117 Union St., Niskayua. For more information, visit www. agudatachim.org/carrot-festival.

‘The Way We Were’ Car Show In addition to food and merchandise vendors, the show will feature live music and a “Kids Zone”with free activities, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free for spectators. Front Street, Ballston Spa. For more information, call (518) 885-2772 or visit www.ballston.org.

Storytelling Sundays Listen to stories in the museum’s historic 1850s log cabin with Mohawk storyteller, Amanda Tarbell, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free with museum admission.

Iroquois Indian Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave. For more information, visit www. iroquoismuseum.org.

Lego Building Challenge: Animals Also Monday. Let your imagination soar and have fun as you compete for awards with teams from across the Capital Region, 1-3 p.m. Sunday; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-4 p.m. Monday. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Register online.

Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 4634478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

8 Monday Smokey Bear Day Drop in and meet Smokey Bear and friends and learn how the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission uses prescribed fire to keep this habitat healthy, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be interactive exhibits and Smokey goody bags. For all ages.

Free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany.

For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

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Calendar of events

family fun for October

8 Monday (cont.)

Pre-K Storytime

11 Thursday

Science Explorers

Seth & the Moody Melix

Drop-in storytime for ages 2-6, 11 a.m. Siblings welcome. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St, Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Library Tots

Discover the different ways in which science is all around us, 10:30 a.m. For all ages. Free with museum admission. The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 584-5540 or visit cmssny.org.

Bring the whole family to hear this awardwinning, toe-tapping trio play upbeat songs that impart good values, 11 a.m. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

The Puppet People Present: The Three Little Pigs An Ann Seegal Memorial Storytelling event!

An inventive retelling of the classic story using puppets, colorful sets, humor and audience participation, 10 a.m. OR 2 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

9 Tuesday 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 caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

10 Wednesday Library Friends Play Time Children and their parents are invited to the library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books, and puzzles, 1:15 p.m.

For ages 3-6. No registration required; siblings welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Pine Bush GPS Adventure Search for hidden objects using a handheld Global Positioning System (GPS) unit that will help you navigate the trails. Learn which buttons do what, how to locate your position on Earth, and how to find your way back to places you’ve been, 10:30 a.m. GPS units are provided. For ages 6-10 with a caregiver.

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

Join Miss Amy at 9:45 or 10:45 a.m. for an early literacy program that emphasizes sharing books, flannel board stories, music, rhymes, and playtime together. For children from newborn to 36 months. Attend either session; no registration required. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Family Fun Outdoors After School Get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and have fun outdoors after school with a different theme each week, 4:30-5:30 p.m. For children in grades K-5 and their caregivers. 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.

Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-18. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St, Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot).

For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Early Explorers Play Group A time for caregivers and their children to visit the museum, enjoy some light snacks, and form a community of encouragement and acceptance, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cost is $2 per family. World Awareness Children’s Museum, 89 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 7932773 or visit www.worldchildrensmuseum.org.

12 Friday World Language Story Time: Spanish Stories, songs, and a simple craft; no previous exposure to other languages needed, 9:10 a.m.

For children 3 and up accompanied by an adult.

Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

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OCTOBER 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 15

Calendar of events

family fun for October

12 Friday (cont.)

Pick of the month

Fire Prevention Storytime Join library staff at the Elsmere Fire Station (15 W. Poplar Drive, Delmar) for stories, songs, a craft and an up close look at the fire trucks, 10:30 a.m.

Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Howes Cave. For more information, visit www. iroquoismuseum.org.

15 Monday Morning Concert: Music Therapy Join some friends from the Center for Disability Services for a morning with music therapists Erin Lancraft and Ashley Cook from Expressive Journeys, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Library Friends Play Time Children and their parents are invited to the library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books, and puzzles, 9:10 a.m. For ages 12 to 36 months. No registration required; siblings welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

PJ Story Time

Annual Duck Derby for Autism

Ghosts of Albany Walking Tour

Oct.

The annual Duck Derby for Autism, a family event with Also Saturday and Sunday. Hear stories of ghosts, antique sites, scandalous tales, haunted food, games, music and prizes, is a fundraiser hosted by the places, mysterious sightings of apparitions, strange Autism Society, a nonprofit organization that supports all and unusual accounts of centuries past, legendary who are affected by autism, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Mohawk stories, folklore and the supernatural intrigues of Harbor, 240 Harborside Drive, Schenectady. For more Albany, 8-9:30 p.m. The tour starts in front of the information, call (518) 355-2191 Hilton Albany, 40 Lodge St., Albany. Price is $15$30 depending on the date. For further information, go to our website at www.ghostsofalbany.com or telephone (718) 591-4741 or our email at drphil@ and more! There will be stories, songs and nycwalks.com. rhymes for children ages 0 to 5 and their families, 10:30-11 a.m. Free, but registration Families Cook: is recommended. To register, email waldronv@ World Food Day Halloween Hoot albanyinstitute.org or call (518) 463-4478 Listen to a story, then use herbs and spices ext.

404.

Albany Institute of History & Art, Join Diane Payette and friends for our annual grown this summer to make a few delicious dishes 125 Washington Ave., Albany.

For more Halloween Hoot and parade, 2 p.m. Children must information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www. that will be sure to please, 2 p.m. For children in be accompanied by an adult. Light refreshments grades K and up with an adult. Registration is albanyinstitute.org. will be served. No registration required. Clifton required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Harvest Fest 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

A family-friendly event featuring a bounce 8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org. house, hayride, box maze, caramel apple making Storytelling Sundays and much more, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Hosted Family Storytime: Listen to stories in the museum’s historic 1850s

by Abounding Love Christian Fellowship and Tales of Birds and Beasts log cabin with Mohawk storyteller, Amanda Hope Full Life Center Inc. Faith Plaza, 2481 Route A special story time at the museum to Tarbell, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free with museum admis9W, Ravena For more information, call (518) tell tales of caterpillars, unicorns, polar bears sion. Iroquois Indian Museum, 324 Caverns Road, 756-9091.

6

14 Sunday

13 Saturday

Relax with a quiet story time for working parents and their children, ages 2-6, 6:15 p.m. Pajamas encouraged. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

16 Tuesday 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 caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Pre-K Storytime Drop-in storytime for ages 2-6, 11 a.m. Siblings welcome. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St, Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot).

For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

17 Wednesday Skype a Scientist Video chat with Dr. Rebekah Rogers about woolly mammoths, being a scientist and more, 4-4:45 p.m. For grades K-5. Sign up online or call.

Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

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Branching Out...

Seeking a Safer Tomorrow

To advertise on our website, call Denice Mau at 439-4949 Check us out at:

Help the Manatees, Adopt One Today!

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www.cdparentpages.com

16 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2018

savethemanatee.org Photo © Wayne Hartley

Calendar of events

Library Friends Play Time Children and their parents are invited to the library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books, and puzzles, 1:15 p.m. For ages 3-6. No registration required; siblings welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

18 Thursday Library Tots Join Miss Amy at 9:45 or 10:45 a.m. for an early literacy program that emphasizes sharing books, flannel board stories, music, rhymes, and playtime together. For children from newborn to 36 months. Attend either session; no registration required. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-18. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St, Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot).

For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Family Fun Outdoors After School Get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and have fun outdoors after school with a different theme each week, 4:30-5:30 p.m. For children in grades K-5 and their caregivers. 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.

Science Explorers Discover the different ways in which science is all around us, 10:30 a.m. For all ages. Free with museum admission. The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 584-5540 or visit cmssny.org.

19 Friday Costume swap Bring your gently used costumes to the library between Oct. 1-18 and receive a ticket to pick out a new-to-you costume from 5-7 p.m. Friday Oct. 19. The library is accepting costumes in all sizes – including adult! You can drop off a costume even if you’re not interested in choosing a new one. Leftover costumes will be donated to charity. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 4399314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Library Friends Play Time Children and their parents are invited to the library to play and interact with others while using

age appropriate toys, books, and puzzles, 9:10 a.m. For ages 12 to 36 months. No registration required; siblings welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Ghosts of Albany Walking Tour Also Saturday and Sunday. Hear stories of ghosts, antique sites, scandalous tales, haunted places, mysterious sightings of apparitions, strange and unusual accounts of centuries past, legendary stories, folklore and the supernatural intrigues of Albany, 8-9:30 p.m. The tour starts in front of the Hilton Albany, 40 Lodge St., Albany. Price is $15$30 depending on the date. For further information, go to our website at www.ghostsofalbany.com or telephone (718) 591-4741 or our email at drphil@ nycwalks.com.

20 Saturday Big Truck Day Check out the big trucks and meet the people who drive them, like construction trucks, dump trucks, emergency vehicles, Jim Becker and his race car, and many more, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost is $5 per child; $1 per adult. Guilderland High School, 8 School Road, Guilderland Center.

National Chemistry Day Children and families will have the chance to take part in interactive chemistry demonstrations, fun hands-on activities, and experiments, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. There will also be door prizes, as well as a student-illustrated, chemistry-themed poetry contest. Create an illustrated poem at the event or bring yours to the museum by noon.

Free. New York State Museum, Albany. For more information call (518) 474-0079 or visit www. nysm.nysed.gov.

Little Wonders of Science Inspires curiosity through stories, play, and special hands-on activities specifically created for children ages 3-5 inspired by “The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything” by Linda Williams, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Cost is $5 plus regular admission of $5 for children, $8 for seniors and $10 for adults.

MiSci, 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 382-7890 or visit www.misci.org.

Halloween Owl Prowl Learn about the owls of the Arboretum woods and listen for and explore these nocturnal birds of prey, 7-8:30 p.m. Cost is $5 per person and $15 per family for members; $15 per person and $25 per family for nonmembers. Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance. For more information, call (518) 875-6935.

Continued on the next page

SCAP Early Head Start Child Care Partnerships

Nature. wisdom. wellness.

We are a FREE Infant Toddler Program for families who qualify and live in Schenectady County.

Saturday, November 17th 10am - NOON

OPEN HOUSE

(EHS-CCP)

We provide: • Free diapers and formula • Nutritious meals and snacks • Family support services • Developmental screenings • Special Education Services (Speech, OT, PT) • Assistance getting health services • Nurturing learning environment Give us a call today.

518.377.2015

Information Session @ 10am Tours Starting @ 10:30am

AGES 2.5 - 5TH GRADE Full-Time and Part-Time Schedules Available

913 Albany St. • Schenectady

Inspire your child’s life-long love of learning with our progressive education for the whole child.

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17 Wednesday (cont.)

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family fun for October

12 Fisher Blvd., Slingerlands, NY

518-478-0224

www.bethlehemchildrensschool.org

Start a CHILD CARE PROGRAM in your home ATTEND A FREE START UP CLASS Call 518.426.7181 to register TUESDAY, OCT. 9, 6:30–8:30P Child Care Council 91 Broadway, Menands THURSDAY, OCT. 18, 5:30–7:30P Bornt Library 948 State St., Schenectady For more information and dates, visit cdcccc.org.

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OCTOBER 2018 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 17

Calendar of events 21 Sunday Albany Comic and Toy Show Featuring new and vintage toys, comic books and collectibles of every kind including: Star Wars, GI Joe, Transformers, Mego, Horror, Movie memorabilia, Wrestling, Non Sports Cards, Model Kits, Original art and more, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost is $5 per person. Red Lion Inn, 205 Wolf Road, Albany.

For more information, call (518) 884-9498

Maker Dad: DIY Frankenstein Operation Game Use your own kid’s drawing or a photo to make an electronic monster operation game with LEDs, wires, 2-3:30 p.m. Supplies will be provided, no electronics experience needed. For grades 3 to 8 with a caregiver. Please register at the Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville, www. voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

22 Monday

family fun for October

Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot).

For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Make a Great Pumpkin You bring the pumpkin; the library will provide the decorating supplies. Then watch the Charles Schulz classic, “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” 6:30-7:30 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar.

For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Family Fun Outdoors After School Get some fresh air, stretch your legs, and have fun outdoors after school with a different theme each week, 4:30-5:30 p.m. For children in grades K-5 and their caregivers. 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.

PJ Story Time

26 Friday

Relax with a quiet story time for working parents to spend with their children, ages 2-6, 6:15 p.m. Pajamas encouraged. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Library Friends Play Time

23 Tuesday 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 caregiver. Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville For more info, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Pre-K Storytime Drop-in storytime for ages 2-6, 11 a.m. Siblings welcome. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St, Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

24 Wednesday Library Friends Play Time Children and their parents are invited to the library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books, and puzzles, 1:15 p.m.

For ages 3-6. No registration required; siblings welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

25 Thursday Teen Anime Club Watch anime, discuss manga and pop culture, and hang out with your friends, 4-6 p.m. For ages 13-18. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St,

18 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2018

Children and their parents are invited to the library to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books, and puzzles, 9:10 a.m.

For ages 12 to 36 months. No registration required; siblings welcome. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call (518) 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Storytime Friday A different cultural story and craft each month, 10:30-11:30 a.m. For ages 3 and up. Free with admission. World Awareness Children’s Museum, 89 Warren St., Glens Falls. For more information, call (518) 793-2773 or visit www.worldchildrensmuseum.org.

27 Saturday Monster Mash Bash Halloween Family Storytime Featuring not so scary stories and some terrifyingly delicious snacks as well as a simple craft, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Please come dressed in costume! Ages 2-7 with caregiver. Please register at the Voorheesville Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville, www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Children’s Halloween Concert Concerts for Tots presents an exciting musical experience that features favorite children’s songs, soundtracks, sing-alongs, fun classical music, and costumes, followed by a costume parade, 10:30 a.m. For babies, toddlers, parents and caregivers. Tickets are $10. To purchase tickets and for more information visit www. concertsfortots.com. Concert takes place at New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 916 Western Ave., Albany.

Family Storytime: Tales of Birds and Beasts A special story time at the museum to tell tales of caterpillars, unicorns, polar bears and more! There will be stories, songs and rhymes for children ages 0 to 5 and their families, 10:30-11 a.m. Free, but registration is recommended. To register, email waldronv@albanyinstitute.org or call (518) 463-4478 ext. 404. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

Halloween Party Play spooky games, have treats and make a dragon mask, 1-2 p.m. Costumes encouraged. For ages 4 and up. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St, Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

Family Book Discussion: Charlotte’s Web A PBS Great American Read event! Read and discuss E.B. White’s classic story as a family, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary. org.

28 Sunday Halloween Spooktacular Join the New York State Museum for the new Halloween Spooktacular filled with tricks and treats for everyone, along with crafts, games, dancing, story-telling and spooky science, noon-3 p.m. Costumes are encouraged, and there will be a children’s costume parade at 3 p.m. Free.

Free. New York State Museum, Albany. For more information call (518) 474-0079 or visit www. nysm.nysed.gov.

Making Connections An early intervention program for children on the spectrum and their families to explore the museum during this special off hour time, 9:30 a.m.

The Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 584-5540 or visit cmssny.org.

Mummy Birthday Children are invited to bring in a small doll or stuffed animal and learn about the mummification process by mummifying their toy, noon-4:30 p.m.

Families will also enjoy an interactive dance performance with the Ellen Sinopoli Dance Company and face painting. Included with paid admission.

Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

SenseAble Science A sensory friendly science center experience

for those with autism and other sensory needs, 10 a.m.-noon. Presented by the Autism Society of the Greater Capital Region, Schenectady ARC, and miSci with additional funds from sponsors. Cost $5 for children, $8 for seniors and $10 for adults.

MiSci, 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady. For more information, call (518) 382-7890 or visit www.misci.org.

29 Monday Escape Room: Halloween An Escape Room with a spooky twist. Use puzzle-solving skills to unlock the box in time, 4 p.m. For grades 6-12. Sign up online or call. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar.

For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

30 Tuesday Sensory Night Hike On this multi-sensory tour of the Pine Bush after sun-down, we will explore nocturnal adaptations through hands-on activities, 6:30 p.m. For all ages. Free, but reservations required. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Halloween Snacks Special treats for kids and teens will be served (please inform staff of any allergies), and there will be small prizes for costumed trick-or-treaters, beginning at 3 p.m. Rensselaer Public Library, 676 East St, Rensselaer (across from the Amtrak parking lot). For more information, call (518) 462-1193 or visit rensselaerlibrary.org.

31 Wednesday Library Trick or Treat Stop by the Children’s Place any time from 10:15-10:45 a.m. OR 2:15-2:45 p.m. on and trick or treat in a safe, dry place. Costumes are optional.

Treat bags will be provided. For ages 0-6 and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call (518) 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Children’s Halloween Concert Concerts for Tots presents an exciting musical experience that features favorite children’s songs, soundtracks, sing-alongs, fun classical music, and costumes, followed by a costume parade, 10 a.m.

For babies, toddlers, parents and caregivers. Tickets are $10. To purchase tickets and for more information visit www.concertsfortots.com. Concert takes place at New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 916 Western Ave., Albany.

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BEFORE HALLOWEEN: Plan costumes that are bright and reflective.

Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.

Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.

Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.

Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, cut larger eye holes in masks or consider non-toxic and hypo allergenic makeup as a safe alternative.

When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.

Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.

Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.

Teach children their home phone number and to how call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost.

Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone.

Review with your children the principle of “Stop-Drop-Roll”, should their clothes catch on fire.

Consider purchasing individually packaged healthy food alternatives (or safe non-food treats) for those who visit your home.

Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.

FUN ALTERNATIVES: Find a special event or start one in your own neighborhood.

Community Centers, Shopping Malls and Houses of Worship may have organized festivities.

Share the fun by arranging a visit to a Retirement Home or Senior Center.

Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.

Adult partygoers should establish and reward a designated driver.

BEFORE NIGHTFALL ON HALLOWEEN: A good meal prior to parties and trick-ortreating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.

Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors.

While children can help with the fun of designing a Jack O’ Lantern, leave the carving to adults.

Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.

Always keep Jack O’ Lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking.

Do not permit children to bicycle, rollerblade or skateboard.

Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home.

Along with flashlights for all, older children and escorts should wear a wristwatch and carry coins for non-emergency phone calls.

Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare household pets for an evening of frightful sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and cats are wearing collars and proper identification tags. Consult your veterinarian for further advice.

Enjoy a SAFE and HAPPY HALLOWEEN from all of us at Capital District Parent Pages!

WHILE YOU’RE OUT TRICK-OR-TREATING: A Parent or responsible Adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.

Remind Trick-or-Treaters to use a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others.

Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where you are going.

Only trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.

Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.

If no sidewalk is available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic.

Never cut across yards or use alleys.

Never enter a stranger’s home or car for a treat.

Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.

Always walk. Never run across a street.

Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom).

Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or alley.

Don’t assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn’t mean others will.

Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered.

No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an Adult at home.

Law Enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

AFTER TRICK-OR-TREATING: Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible Adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.

Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween.

Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard candies), are given only to those of an

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Happy. Healthy. Loved. These are the dreams we have for our children.

So we cherish the moments when little giggles fill the room, imaginations take us on great adventures, and when it seems our hearts could burst with pride and love.

Here and now, we’d stop time if we could. Because when kids are being kids, we all feel better.

Let’s get every child covered.

If your child needs health insurance, Fidelis Care is just a call, click, or visit away.

Call: 1-888-FIDELIS Click: fideliscare.org Visit: A Fidelis Care community office near you. Search for locations at fideliscare.org/offices

HHHHH Fidelis Care is a top-rated plan in the 2017 New York State Consumer’s Guide to Medicaid and Child Health Plus.

1-888-FIDELIS • fideliscare.org (1-888-343-3547)

TTY: 711

To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, and Qualified Health Plans through NY State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777.

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