Capital District Parent Pages October 2017

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Inside:

October calendar listings

arent pages

Capital District

Volume 21 • Number 10 • OCTOBER 2017 • Complimentary

Pumpkin perfection

The Resource for Parents

The mindful child Homework woes

cdparentpages.com OCTOBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 1

BIRTHDAY PARTIES Host your child’s next birthday party at the Bizzy Beez! We offer a bright party room and activities that are creative, individually inspired and age appropriate.

Birthday Parties are available for children 3 years and older.

Come Play...

TODDLER PROGRAM FOR 2-3 YEAR OLDS • Stimulating Environment • Engaging Staff • Play Based Learning • Positive Peer Interaction • Gross Motor Development • Language Skills Development

with Purpose

JOIN THE AFTER SCHOOL CLUB! SENSORATIONAL SATURDAYS • Structured Free Play in Sensory Gym Free Play in a sensory friendly • Organized Games environment – EVERY Saturday • Homework Help for Children 9 AM – 10:30 AM Kindergarten to Fifth Grade

The region’s only multi-sensory play center built to amaze!

Individual/Group Reservations Welcome The Spotted Zebra Learning Center 26 Computer Drive East Albany, New York 12205 (518) 438-4800 www.spottedzebra.org Bizzy Beez Activity Center is a program of the Spotted Zebra Learning Center 101292_4

We’re all about family.

Burdett Birth Center. A family experience. .QECVGF QP VJG UGEQPF ƃQQT QH 5COCTKVCP *QURKVCN KP VJG JGCTV QH 6TQ[

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2 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2017

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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.

It’s easy to fall in love with autumn Spend a day on the farm this month enjoying the Capital District’s bounty

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all in the Capital District is our reward for putting up with the long snowy winters and unpredictable summers. Ask anyone who lives here what their favorite season is, and chances are, they will say fall.

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arent pages

Capital District

Editor’s desk

The Resource for Parents

October 2017 Features Fall on the farm

10-11

Columnists

It’s hard to narrow down the list of our favorite things about fall. There are the leaf piles, the brilliant colors, the crisp nights that call for fuzzy pajamas, the cider and doughnuts served at every autumn event, and apples and pumpkins everywhere.

Visiting local orchards and farms during harvest time has become such a ubiquitous family activity in the Capital District that many of us might take for granted how lucky we are to live in an area where agriculture is nurtured and respected. Sure, farming is one tough way to make a living, but the success and growing reach of farmers markets and the way people flock to the fields at harvest time proves that we are doing our part to support those efforts.

For many area farms, the stampede of families in the fall months is a cash crop, and they welcome visitors with petting zoos, hayrides, corn mazes and more. Some get really creative, like Liberty Ridge in Schaghticoke with its “Discover America” corn maze and jumping pillow, and the pumpkin cannon at Pick a Pumpkin in Esperance. Others stick to what they know – agriculture, with the selling point being pick-your-own produce. In the end, we at Capital District Parent Pages believe that whatever gets families closer to their food source is a good thing, and nothing beats a bright autumn day on the farm.

Read all about how to keep your pumpkin prize-worthy through Halloween, as well as a listing of area farms to visit this fall on Pages 10-11. Also check our monthly calendar on Pages 13-18 for even more fall and Halloween-themed fun. *** We always welcome potential cover shots for Parent Pages; email them to me anytime at robertsk@spotlightnews.com. (See guidelines below.) Also feel free to send your suggestions, ideas, comments and pictures to me at robertsk@spotlightnews.com. You can check out the latest at www.cdparentpages.com.

Kristen Roberts, Editor

On the cover: Benjamin Walker, 3, of Delmar, selects a prime pumpkin in this photo shared by his mom, Anna Walker. 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.

24-Hour Shift

5

British Nanny

6

Triple Threat

7

Acorn Advice

8

Let’s Cook!

9

What’s new On the Bookshelf

4

Kids fun page

12

Resources Calendar

13-18

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

OCTOBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 3

On the Bookshelf

Reading is an October treat ‘Pug & Pig Trick-or-Treat’

‘In the Middle of Fall’

By Sue Lowell Gallion;

By Kevin Henkes;

illustrated by Joyce Wan

illustrated by Laura Dronzek

Pig is excited about Halloween but Pug loses his holiday spirit because of his uncomfortable costume in this adorable picture book that’s perfect for pet lovers of all ages.

Beach Lane Books

This story details the sights, sounds, smells and textures of the autumn season, describing in simple, alliterative text and striking imagery how its transformations culminate in the frosty winter. Greenwillow Books

‘Monster Trucks’

By Joy Keller; illustrations by Misa Saburi From one Halloween to the next, ogres, mummies and other monsters stay busy driving monster trucks as they pave roads, plow snow and haul muck. Godwin Books, Henry Holt and Company

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

40 years

THE MUSIC STUDIO Classes for 2, 3, and young 4-year-olds begin October 2

Classes for Children with Special Needs www.dramakids.com (518) 458-1313

facebook.com / themusicstudiotms

TheMusicStudio.com 103499_4

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Call 518-459-7799

JOIN US!

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

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begin October 14

parenting is a full-time job

The 24-hour shift

Adopting a new attitude

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This is particularly true when adopting older children who have been through a few foster homes. These kids know the “routine”: Get the house tour, go over the house rules, be shown where to sleep, and repeat when it’s time to move on again. They have loved, gotten attached, and then had to leave. They have been taken from their parents and the only life they’ve known so they frequently act out in their first foster home for attention or out of anger and fear – maybe all of the above and then some.

Foster parents call the placement agency and have them removed, and then the cycle continues at the next house. Often, by the time they get to you, they fall into old habits because they figure they will be sent away anyway. They might as well start acting out to “get it over with.”

Older kids may try to make

Sometimes foster children who have been in and out of the system act out because they are afraid of getting attached.

STAY FOCUSED.

STAY IN THE GAME.

by

Theresa Davis

Go on the defense against asthma.

themselves the worst kid you’ve ever seen so they can make you get rid of them. For them, this is a survival tactic, as well as something that makes them feel safe. Like the foster parents, they are afraid of attaching too. A forever family is a pipe dream, so they shy away from any sign of warmth.

In five convenient locations — Albany, Niskayuna, Troy, Saratoga & Clifton Park CALL 518.434.1446 CERTIFIEDALLERGY . COM 103500_5

The best thing to do is hang in there because it might get rough.

Apply for as many services as the child qualifies for. Keep in continuous contact with your social service workers, the post adoption worker and the child’s school. Don’t give up on the child or yourself. If you have finalized the adoption, the child is your child, the same as if you gave birth to her yourself. Under no circumstances is there a return or exchange policy on a child.

Newmeadow Preschool

Prepare Them For Learning.

Prepare Them For Life.

5-hour Integrated Preschool Program Building Kindergarten Readiness Skills

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.

Fostering Self-Esteem and ConĮdence Developing Leadership Skills For Life

NEW LOCATIONS NOW OPEN!!

GROUP TOURS CliŌon Park October 11th, 25th 9:30 am—10:00 am

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hen thinking about fostering or adopting children, it is very important to learn as much as you can about attachment.

Foster parents walk a dizzying tightrope in which they must try to form an attachment with a child even while preparing to say goodbye at any time. Some adoptive parents expect an instant family, which often does not happen right away. It can take years to form a family, even after an adoption is finalized.

23 SiƩerly Road, CliŌon Park, NY 12065 (518)899-9235 220 Broadway, Fort Edward, NY 12828 (518)338-3482 www.newmeadow.org ൟ www.Facebook.com/NewmeadowSchool

OCTOBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 5

British Nanny

speech matters

Mindfulness at any age Teach children ways to be present in the moment

‘N

o, Nanny.

I need my space!” These words of wisdom from my 3-year-old grandson Jack was the response to a play suggestion made after a somewhat stressful swimming lesson.

In these times of overscheduling ourselves and our children, knowing when to take a break is important to mind, body and soul. This applies to both children and their caregivers.

For many young children, having to live a life in sensory hyperdrive can literally be painful.

This includes, but is not limited to, those on the autism spectrum, as well as those with sensory disorders and anxiety. When overloaded, these children will often display distraction, confusion, meltdowns and, at times, rage.

simple and relevant.

Start early and make it a regular part of the family’s day.

Include grandparents if they are a regular part of the routine. It’s much easier for young children to be fully engaged in each moment than it is for adults.

Create a peace space. Provide a quiet area that your child can retreat to when they’re feeling overwhelmed. Include soft blankets or a bean bag chair and some sensory items if by these help regulate your child. Keep the area uncluttered. My daughter Ellie has a background in early education, working with 3- and 4-year-olds. She is also the mother to my 4-year-old grandson, Copeland. She says cozy corners are essential for early learning into adulthood. At her apartment, she has a beanbag chair and some pillows under a teepee. She also keeps sensory and calming materials in the corner next to the tepee.

Create a spot like this in your home and encourage your child to practice some mindfulness exercises in this spot daily.

Sharon Cole

There is a growing body of evidence that suggests mindfulness can help children improve their ability to pay attention and calm themselves when they start to get upset so they can make better decisions. It helps with emotional regulation and focus and learning to control their attention span.

What is mindfulness? It’s the ability to notice what is happening as it’s happening and stay in moment. Babies and very young children do this naturally. I watch as my 14-month-old granddaughter, Cadence, experiences each mindful moment – tasting, touching, listening and watching with joyful intent.

When teaching mindfulness to young children, keep it

6 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2017

Superhero strength. Help your child develop an awareness of breathing. Have them lie down in their quiet space with a favorite stuffed animal on their belly (for Jack, it’s Blue Bear) and rock it to sleep with the belly movement as they breathe in and out.

Superhero senses. Teach your child to turn on their strong, super focused senses of sight, smell, hearing, taste and touch.

Superheroes are aware of everything that goes on around them.

LEFT: Three-year-old Jack, shown with his mindfulness stones, uses the practice to stay calm and focused in a hectic world of sensory overload. ABOVE: At 14 months old, Cadence is naturally mindful – observing each moment with joyful intent.

They can use their superhero senses indoors and out.

The following two exercises are simple ways to teach young children to develop awareness.

Mindfulness stones Kids love stones and rocks.

Have your child sit comfortably in their peace space. Put a variety of stones in a bowl and have your child pick out a stone with their eyes closed. Have them hold the stone and notice how it feels as they touch it, and how it makes them feel inside.

Have them open their eyes and look at the stone they picked.

Give your child some paints or markers and encourage them to decorate their rock however they want. Some children may want to decorate it based on how it made them feel. When finished, your child can place their special rock in their peace spot.

When they get anxious or upset, it’s always there to touch and remind them to calm down.

Super safari search Going on a safari search with superpowers is a great way to

teach your child to pay attention using all of the senses. Tell your child that they’re going on a safari, and they have to see how many birds, bugs and other animals they can find. They can take along a small magnifying glass to find the really tiny creepy crawlers. This will require them to focus all their senses and attention to find them.

Your child will generally learn what they live. They watch and learn from their caregivers, especially Mom, Dad and grandparents. The best method to teach mindfulness, therefore, is to develop your own practice daily.

Take responsibility for the energy you bring into any given moment. Teach your children to do the same. Teaching mindfulness helps to ground us at any age.

Sharon Cole is a speech-language 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.

parenting triplets in the Capital District

Triple Threat

Allergies complicate holiday Daughter has to sit out trick-or-treating on Halloween for her own safety

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e knew before Olivia was 2 years old. We knew before her first birthday party at a friend’s house. We knew when she broke out in hives and started chewing on her fingers because the itching was so intense that our lives would be forever changed. There was a very slim chance that Olivia would outgrow her peanut and tree nut allergies, but her last blood work did not show a decrease in the histamine reaction so she will most likely bring these allergies into adulthood.

She will never be able to eat a creamy peanut butter and strawberry jam sandwich on Italian bread from Freihoffer’s when she pantry and said “Can I have a needs comfort food. I love pea- PB and J? It would make life so nut butter, and I ate plenty of it much easier.” I stopped in my while I was pregnant and while tracks because she was right. I I pumped. I had peanut butter remember my own mom talkcrackers. Olivia’s allergy isn’t ing me through how to make from lack of exposure; it a PB and J, heavy on is just a DNA thing. the PB and lite on We don’t know if by the J, while she was Rebecca and Ben nursing my brothare allergic to nuts er. Even though because we don’t her comment serve them, but was semi-joking, neither child has I knew there had ever had any kind of been a shift in her reaction to foods. thinking. Mid-September was the tipping I have been waiting for the point: Halloween is coming emotional reaction from Olivia and all her friends are going when she realizes that she is trick-or-treating. Olivia is not missing out on some things … and neither is Benjamin or other kids without allergies take Rebecca. Poor Olivia has been for granted. I’ve been waiting inconsolable. She sobbed into for eight years for her to get the spot between my chin and upset about Halloween (and my shoulder. “I wish I didn’t Valentine’s Day, birthday parhave a nut allergy!” ties, cakes, cookies and lunches).

This summer, I noticed a change Having a daughter with a in her demeanor while I was food allergy is hard for the juggling the kids’ needs and adults and the siblings in the Harlan’s dialysis schedule. I was family. I will never be able to trying to get lunch pulled tosay to Olivia that she should gether when Olivia opened the just order the PB and J at

Jennifer Steuer

If you see a teal pumpkin on a porch, it means the residents are handing out treats that are safe for kids with allergies. school if she doesn’t care for the hot lunch option. She knows how to jab the Epi-pen into her thigh and dial 911.

Olivia trained Rebecca and Benjamin so they will know too. We have never had to use an Epi-pen on Olivia. Never.

Ever. But I will never have a small purse since carrying an Epi-Pen, inhaler, air chamber, Benadryl and tissues takes up so much space.

As a family, we protect Olivia. Our goal is for her to never have to use her emergency supplies. It’s scary to think that simply sharing lunchbox items could be fatal. By empowering Olivia, from the time of her diagnosis to today, she is aware of what questions she needs to ask and how to care for herself in case of an emergency. I know that Olivia is a very lucky girl because her friends’ families all know she is allergic, and we always supply an Epi-pen and inhaler in case of emergency.

Birthday parties are hard on her sometimes, but she knows that it isn’t about her.

As Halloween comes swooping in quietly as a ghost, our family will be preparing for our third year of the Teal Pumpkin Project. We will have pencils, erasers and other non-food items for all the ghouls and goblin types. Olivia will be handing out the treats on Halloween. I know she is really bummed that trick-or-treating isn’t a safe activity for her, but at some point, she will realize that her mom and dad didn’t keep her from enjoying that one night a year, we kept her safe so she could celebrate every night.

For more information and amazing ideas check out the Teal Pumpkin on www.foodallergy.org. DIYnetwork.com and Pinterest.com have great ideas for decorating and treats to hand out.

Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom whose busy household includes her husband, Harlan, and 9-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca. Follow her on Instagram: jennifersteuer.

OCTOBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 7

Acorn Advice

growth from within

Homework battles begin Q

uestion: My son is just parents and teachers question a few weeks into ninth its efficacy in student achievegrade and already failing to ment. The biggest bone of keep up with homework assign- contention seems to be over ments. I’m not sure if the teach- how much time children should ers are assigning too much, if spend on homework. I looked it’s too difficult or if my son at the research and found is just not managing his that the recommended time effectively. We amount of time is by are home most evemore modest than nings so it seems one might expect. to me there is time For example, to finish it. Lately Good and Brophy I have tried taking (2003) cautioned things like his phone that teachers must away if he doesn’t comtake care not to assign plete his homework, but too much homework. even that doesn’t motivate him They suggested that homework must be realistic in length and enough. I am sick of this battle difficulty given the students’ already! What do I do? abilities to work independently. nswer: Homework has Thus, 5 to 10 minutes per come under fire over the subject might be appropriate for past few years as more and more fourth-graders, whereas 30 to

Help your child establish their own personal goals that will help motivate them to do their homework.

Julia Cadieux

A

60 minutes might be appropriate for college-bound high school students.

Another question concerning homework is the degree to which parents should be

involved. Understand it is not your role to teach or police your child’s homework assignments.

Creating a situation where homework becomes subject to

Continued on Page 16

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Let’s Cook! by

Jodie Fitz

Apple treats the right size

I

love looking at the beautifully decorated candied apples that make their debut this time of year and remember that, once upon a time, we bought them. The children picked their own, one or two bites would be taken, and then they would be thrown out a day or two later.

We even tried buying one to slice it to share, but the outer

PICK YOUR OWN PUMPKINS GOURDS & INDIAN CORN Fun activities in a unique farm and country setting in the beautiful Schoharie Valley

layer would always break away, leaving it in jumbled pieces.

I came up with a solution. I make the kids these mini candied apple bites. They are easy, and one bite is all that is needed so there’s no waste.

You can join Jodie monthly and get more recipes through Price Chopper Kids Cooking Club at www.pricechopper.com. To learn about her, visit www.jodiefitz.com.

September 23 - October 31

Mini Candied Apple Bites 1 golden delicious apple (yields 12 bites)

$5 per person/2 and under Free

1 cup dark chocolate candy melts

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1⁄2 cup white chocolate candy melts

SINCE 80% OF LEARNING IS VISUAL, standard eye exams are just not enough!

Caramel apple wrap 4-inch candy sticks Waxed or parchment paper Toothpick

Slide a candy stick into the center of each apple on the cut side. Carefully wrap a piece of caramel candy apple wrap around each apple and connect the two ends together so that it doesn’t come off in the dipping process. The wrap will not cover the entire apple and that’s OK. Only a taste of caramel is being added. Place the caramel-wrapped apple pieces onto a flat surface covered with or parchment paper.

Heat the dark chocolate wafers in a glass dish in the microwave on high for one minute. Stir the chocolate together until it is fully melted. Dip each apple piece into the chocolate one at a time

and let the excess chocolate drip off before returning it to the waxed paper surface. Let set until it is hard.

To give your child the best chance for success in school and sports, schedule a comprehensive eye exam.

Melt the white chocolate in a separate glass dish in the microwave on high. Stir the chocolate together until it is fully melted. Dip the tip of a spoon into the melted chocolate and drizzle it back and forth and all over each one to make it look like spider webbing. Let the webbing set until it’s fully hardened. * Optional: Create white chocolate bugs by dripping a circle of chocolate on to a piece of waxed paper.

Spread out legs with a toothpick. After they are set, attach to each dipped apple by using melted chocolate as the glue.

Vision is so much more than just seeing 20/20!

Comprehensive eye exams provide a complete assessment of eye focusing, eye teaming and eye movement abilities.

Visual deÀcits can impact a child’s ability to read, comprehend, pay attention, focus and play sports.

For more information, please visit our website at www.FoxVisionDevelopment.com

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Wash and dry the apple. Slice it off the core and cut it into eighths. On a cutting board, cut a caramel wrap (or two) into 12 strips that are approximately 3⁄4 inch in width.

Dr. Robert S. Fox

This is a classic Let’s Cook! that originally ran in the October 2014 issue of Parent Pages.

OD, FCOVD

1202 Troy-Schenectady Rd., Latham, NY

(518) 374-8001

Vision therapy will change how you see the world!

OCTOBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 9

Great gourds Keep your family’s jack-o’-lantern grinning through Halloween by selecting a pumpkin with staying power and following some simple preservation techniques Picking a pumpkin and carving it into a jack-o’-lantern is a fun fall tradition for old and young alike. Whether you go to a pumpkin patch or stop by a roadside stand, you’ll want to get a great gourd. Here are some tips for selecting good pumpkins and preserving them after carving.

1.

Pumpkins come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. What will work best for your carving needs? Medium-sized pumpkins with flat bottoms generally work the best for carving. You may need smaller or larger pumpkins, however, for your creations. Whatever sizes and shapes appeal to you, make sure the pumpkins are in good condition.

2.

Color is a great indication of a pumpkin’s condition.

10 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2017

The best pumpkins are bright orange with bright green stems. They are also firm and free of bruises, cracks, splits, soft spots, insect holes and other damage. Whatever pumpkins interest you, make sure you give them a tap. If they sound hollow, they should work well for carving.

4.

Carving pumpkins can be great fun.

There are all kinds of kits available, or you can go it alone. However you go about the carving, you will want to preserve the jackby o’-lanterns for as long as possible to ensure they last through Halloween and maybe even a few When you days beyond. Decomhave selected position begins the moment some pumpkins, be of carving.

The pumpkin’s careful transporting them. Use protective skin is no longer a wagon if provided or carry them gingerly to the checkout intact, and various organisms like bacteria and fungi counter one at a time. Be just as careful when you get home. get inside and start breaking it down. The oxygen in the Move the pumpkins indoors air speeds up decomposiwith care. You don’t want to spend half a day in a pumpkin tion as does dehydration. patch locating the best pump- The pumpkin will begin kins only to drop and damage drying out the moment it is carved. To reduce the rate them when you get home.

Tresa Erickson

3.

of decomposition, there are a couple of things you can do. You can sterilize and seal the pumpkin’s surfaces. First, wipe down the outside of the pumpkin. Then mix a tablespoon of bleach per quart of water and spray it inside the pumpkin. This will eliminate any organisms present. Let the pumpkin dry, and after you have carved it, rub down the carved surfaces with petroleum jelly to reduce dehydration.

5.

Proper storage is a must to keep your carving creations intact. You should store your jack-o’-lanterns someplace cool until you are ready to put them out for the holiday.

When you do put them out, try to place them out of the sun to prevent further dehydration.

Capital District pumpkin patches and autumn activities Altamont Orchards

The Farm at Kristy’s Barn

Pumpkins, cider doughnuts and gifts.

6654 Dunnsville Road, Altamont (518) 861-6515; altamontorchards.com

Pumpkins, pick-your-own apples, cider mill, picnic area, petting zoo and more.

2385 Brookview Road, Castleton (518) 477-6250; www.kristysbarn.com

Bowman Orchards Pumpkins, pick-your-own and picked apples, cider and doughnuts.

141 Sugar Hill Road, Rexford (518) 371-2042; www.bowmanorchards.com

Double M Daytime corn maze, hayrides, petting zoo and bounce house. Haunted hayrides at night.

678 Route 67, Ballston Spa (518) 884-9122; doublemhauntedhayrides.com

Hay Berry Farm Pumpkin patch or pick in the field.

1176 Babcock Lake Road, Hoosick Falls (518) 285-9039; hayberryfarm.org

Indian Ladder Farms Pick your own, farm store, petting zoo and much more.

342 Altamont Road, Altamont (518) 765-2956; www.indianladderfarms.com

Engelke Farm Corn maze, pumpkin patch and pick your own, zip line, haunted corn maze, tractor-pulled hay rides and more.

463 Garfield Road, Troy (518) 279-3971; www.engelkefarm.com

Corn maze, pumpkins, pumpkin patch, haunted corn maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, haunted house and more.

29 Bevis Road, Schaghticoke (518) 664-1515; libertyridgefarmny.com

Goold Orchards Pick in the field or pumpkin patch, fall festival, corn maze, horse-drawn hay rides, tractor-pulled hay rides, haunted house and cider mill.

1297 Brookview Station Road, Castleton-onHudson (518)732-7317; www.goold.com

Ellms Family Farm Corn maze, pumpkin patch, hay bale maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, wagon rides and more.

448 Charlton Road, Ballston Spa (518) 884-8168; www.ellmsfarms.com

Liberty Ridge Farm

Kettle Farm Corn maze, corn cannon, slingshots, pumpkins and more.

5154 Route 7, Hoosick Falls (518) 686-0992

Pick a Pumpkin — Pumpkin Patch Pick your own pumpkins and gourds, hayrides, farm animals, pumpkin cannon and more.

2716 Creek Road, Esperance (518) 868-4893; www.pickapumpkin.com

Riverview Orchards Pick your own apples, hayrides and more.

660 Riverview Road, Rexford (518) 371-2174

Schuyler Farms Corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides, petting zoo, hay maze and haunted hay maze.

1124 Route 29, Schuyerville (518) 695-5308; schuylerfarms.com

Sunnyside Gardens Pumpkin patch, hayrides and train rides.

345 Church St., Saratoga Springs (518) 584-1034; www.sunnysidegardensllc.com

Before planning a visit, call ahead for hours and prices.

OCTOBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 11

What Rhymes with…

n u F s Kid Page

List 10 words that rhyme with “bat.”

1..

1

2.

3.

4..

4

5.

6.

8.

9.

7.

7.

10.

Q: What kind of pants do ghosts like to wear? ?

Some answers: at, cat, fat, gnat, hat, mat, pat, rat, sat, vat

JO K E S

Name Na N Na N Name That That Character Character There are many Halloween characters. Fill in T the blanks to name some of them.

A: Boojeans.

Q: How do phantoms s travel?

1

V A __ __ I R E S

2

W E __ E W __ L V E S

3

Z __ M B I E __

4

G H __ S __ S

5

G O __ __ I N S

6

__ I T C H __ S

7

M U __ __ I E S

A: Ghost to ghost!

Coloring Fun

Answers: 1) Vampires, 2) Werewolves, 3) Zombies, 4) Ghosts, 5) Goblins, 6) Witches, 7) Mummies

Y P P HA TING N U HA

COLO

Fact or Fiction?

Superstition Challenge Walk under a ladder, and you’ll have bad luck. This is just one of many superstitions. Here are some questions about Halloween superstitions. How many can you answer correctly?

1) If you put your clothes on inside out and walk backwards on Halloween, you’ll see a mummy. Fact or Fiction?

2) If you ring a bell on Halloween, you’ll scare away any evil spirits.

Fact or Fiction?

3) If you spot a ghost on Halloween and walk around it 100 times, you’ll make it disappear. Fact or Fiction?

4) If you come to a crossroads on Halloween and listen to the wind, you’ll find out what is going to happen to you in the next year.

Fact or Fiction?

5) If you see a candle blow out on its own on Halloween, you’ll know there are good spirits nearby. Fact or Fiction?

6) If you cross paths with a black cat on Halloween, you’ll meet a witch.

Fact or Fiction?

7) If you hurt a black cat on Halloween, you’ll have seven years of good luck.

Fact or Fiction?

COLORING PICTURE

8) If you hear a black cat meowing on your porch or around your window, you’ll receive money in the coming weeks.

Fact or Fiction?

9) If you see bats flying around on Halloween, you’ll know there are ghosts nearby. Fact or Fiction?

10) Superstitions are not facts; they are beliefs that rarely come true.

Fact or Fiction?

Answers: 1) Fiction, you’ll see a witch, 2) Fact, 3) Fiction, you have to walk around it nine times, not 100, 4) Fact, 5) Fiction, evilspirits are nearby, 6) Fact, 7) Fiction, you’ll have bad luck, 8) Fiction, 9) Fact, 10) Fact

12 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2017

COLORING PICTURE

COLO

family fun for October

Calendar of events

October 1 Sunday Storytelling Sundays Traditionally, stories are shared after the first frost ensuring that the earth’s inhabitants are not distracted from their duties or neglectful of their responsibilities so step back, settle in, and enjoy a timeless Haudenosaunee tradition, 10 a.m. Free with museum admission of $8, $6.50 for seniors and students, and $5 for children. Iroquois Indian Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave. For more information, visit www.iroquoismuseum.org or call (518) 296-8949.

Kids Cooking Class: Scones and Apple Cider Floats Kids get an interactive cooking class that focuses on kitchen techniques and understanding recipes. Once the recipes are ready students eat what they made, 11 a.m. Registration required; cost is $25. For ages 7 and up. Serendipity Arts Studio, 26 D Congress St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 886-9553 or visit www.serendipityartsstudio.com.

3 Tuesday Rubber Ducky Bedtime Stories Wear your PJs and bring a stuffed friend to enjoy fun and stories before bedtime, 7 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 4399314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Tuesday for Tots Younger visitors gain preschool readiness skills in a fun and social environment, drop in 10 a.m.-noon. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

4 Wednesday ARTfull Afternoons Children ages 5 to 14 are introduced to art in the collection and exhibitions, then 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.

Alphabet Soup Learn a new letter of the alphabet each week through the use of stories, songs, activates, crafts and more, 10-10:30 a.m. For ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

Number Jungle Explores numbers through the use of songs, activities, crafts and more, 10:30-11 a.m. For ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

5 Thursday Family Fun: Outdoors After School Get some fresh air after school, stretch your legs, and have fun outdoors, 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 Weekly program to discover the ways in which science is all around us, 10:30 a.m. For ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

6 Friday Story Art

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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) 474-5877 or visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

Five Rivers: Nightlife Explore the nighttime world through the ears and eyes of the animals, 6:30 p.m. For ages 6 and up. 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.

First Friday Friends Children ages 12 to 36 months and their parents are invited to play and interact with others while using age appropriate toys, books and puzzles, 10 a.m. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Rubber Ducky Sensory Playtime A playtime for children up to age 6 where they can use their senses to explore the world around them, 10 a.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehem publiclibrary.org.

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OCTOBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 13

Capital District

p

arent pages

Calendar of events

Upcoming Monthly Themes & Deadlines

9 Monday

Family Yoga Workshop

Storytelling Program: Travel the World in Tales & Tunes

Naturalists as Reading Partners Read “A Seed is Sleepy” by Dianna Aston, then go outdoors on a discovery walk to explore some of the themes in the book, 10 a.m.

Appropriate for children ages 3-7. Adults must accompany children. 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.

November

Santa’s Arrival Holiday Happenings Holiday Road Trips Deadline: October 2nd

8 Sunday Fall Foliage Walk and Tree Identification Workshop Join science educator George Steele to enjoy the fall colors while learning how to identify trees, 2 p.m. Cost is $15 per person, $255 per family. George Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance. For more information, call (518) 875-6935 or visit landisarboretum.org.

December The Holidays Theatre Deadline: November 6th

Little Chefs: Cooking for Preschoolers Preschoolers to learn basic kitchen skills in this interactive cooking class making pumpkin muffins with orange glaze. They are also given time to socialize and play before eating what they made, 11 a.m. For ages 2-6. Reservations required; cost is $15. Serendipity Arts Studio, 26 D Congress St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 886-9553 or visit www. serendipityartsstudio.com.

January

Winter Sports & Activities Staying Healthy Deadline: December 4th

Storytelling Sundays Step back, settle in, and enjoy a timeless Haudenosaunee tradition, 10 a.m. Free with museum admission of $8, $6.50 for seniors and students, and $5 for children. Iroquois Indian Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave. For more information, visit www.iroquoismuseum. org or call (518) 296-8949.

February Children’s Art & Culture Deadline: January 1st

Delmar Fire Department Open House

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call

Denice Mau at 439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com 103502_4

14 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2017

7 Saturday Partner with your children in simple, animated poses that help to strengthen coordination and build body awareness, 10 a.m. All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please register online or in person. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

The Resource for Parents

family fun for October

The library will be hosting a storytime and craft at the annual open house (145 Adams St.), 1-3 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

A storytelling extravaganza featuring audience participation, tales, tunes and drama representing each of the seven continents, 2-3 p.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 4399314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

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. All ages. Free.

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

Music with Evan Gottfried Sing along with Evan Gottfried and enjoy a highly interactive musical performance, 11 a.m. This is a drop-in program for families with children ages 3 and up. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Lego Building for All Ages We’ve got bricks for all ages and stages, toddlers to tweens, everyone is welcome to drop in and enjoy building together, 1:30-3 p.m. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

10 Tuesday Tuesday for Tots Younger visitors gain preschool readiness skills in a fun and social environment, drop in 10 a.m.-noon. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

11 Wednesday Great stART: Pointillism Listen to a story then create art with your loved ones by using small dots of color to compose a simple painting, 6:30 p.m. Best suited for children in grades K-5 and their families. No registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www. cphlibrary.org.

Continued on the next page

Calendar of events

family fun for October

11 Wednesday (cont.)

Number Jungle

Alphabet Soup

Explores numbers through the use of songs, activities, crafts and more, 10:30-11 a.m. For ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

12 Thursday Science Explorers

Weekly program to discover the different ways in which science is all around us, 10:30 a.m. For ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

• To have your event included in our

Submit an event

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

14 Saturday Domino Building Basics

World Language Storytime: Russian with Mrs. Marina Stories, songs and a simple craft; no previous exposure to other languages needed, 10 a.m.

This is a drop-in program for children ages 3 and up accompanied by an adult. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Busy Bees Open playgroup is for young visitors and their caregivers, 10-11 a.m. Ages birth to 24 months. Free with museum admission of $8.

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

Decorate a small keepsake fabric bag. Sign up each child individually, 10 a.m. Sign up online or call. For 18 months and older with family and friends. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information,

MERRITT D

Learn the basics of building with dominos with BCHS student Jacob Koplik, 3-4 p.m. For kids and families. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary. org.

Birds Take Flight Join an early morning adventure to observe some of the amazing birdsat the Pine Bush and see our science team in action, 7:30 a.m.-9 a.m. All ages. Cost is $3 per person and $5 per family. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Oak Trees Feed the Forest

Color a Trick-or-Treat Bag

Discover how these mighty giants provide food for many of the forest’s inhabitants, 10:3011:30 a.m. 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.

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C E N T ER E C AN Recreation &

Competitive Dance

• Pre-school through Advanced Levels + TAP + JAZZ + BALLET + ACRO/GYM + + BATON BATON TWIRLING + HIP HOP + KINDERDANCE

LOW COMBINATION RATES

Still Time to Register!

Beginner thru Advanced Classes KURTIS SPRUNG performing in Cirque du Soleil show “Love” in Las Vegas

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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.

call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary. org.

13 Friday

CertiÀed by Dance Masters of America & Dance Educators of America 103509_4

Learn a new letter of the alphabet each week through the use of stories, songs, activates, crafts and more, 10-10:30 a.m. For ages 3 and up.

Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

Environmental Education Center, 56 Game Farm Road, Delmar. For more information, call (518) 475-0291 or visit www.dec.ny.gov/education/1835.html.

1360 Albany Street (2 miles below Mohawk Commons)

372-5282 • www.merrittdancecenter.com OCTOBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 15

Calendar of events 14 Saturday (cont.)

National Chemistry Day: Chemistry Rocks!

The day’s activities include interactive chemistry demonstrations, fun hands-on activities, experiments and door prizes, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. New York State Museum, 222 Madison Ave., Albany.

For more information, call (518) 474-5877 or visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

S.T.E.A.M. Saturday A fun and exciting morning, 10 a.m. For families with children ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs.

For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

15 Sunday Kids Cooking Class: Crepes Kids get an interactive cooking class that focuses on kitchen techniques and understanding recipes. Once the recipes are

Acorn Advice continued from Page 8 punishment destroys the adolescent’s intrinsic motivation and defeats the purpose of homework. Let’s look again at the research: Epstein and colleagues conducted a series of studies to identify the conditions under which parental involvement enhances homework (2001). They recommended the following: • Parents receive clear guidelines spelling out their role.

• Teachers do not expect parents to act as experts regarding content or to attempt to teach the content.

• Parents ask questions that help students clarify and summarize what they have learned.

Teachers who give appropriate homework assignments will keep the role of parents in mind and carefully monitor student assignments to make sure they are at the right level of difficulty

16 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2017

Seasonal sweets

family fun for October

ready students eat what they made, 11 a.m.

Registration required; cost is $25. For ages 7 and up. Serendipity Arts Studio, 26 D Congress St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 886-9553 or visit www.serendipityartsstudio.com.

17 Tuesday Tuesday for Tots Younger visitors gain preschool readiness skills, drop in 10 a.m.-noon. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

Make a Great Pumpkin You bring the pumpkin; we’ll provide the decorating supplies. Then watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” 4 p.m. For ages 3 and up with family and friends. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

18 Wednesday Halloween Hoot Join Diane Payette and friends for the

to be challenging yet completed independently. If you feel this is not the case, schedule time to talk to the teachers sooner rather than later.

Give yourself and your son a “do-over” on the homework starting now. You can read this reply together and then set aside some time to discuss a game plan (not when you’re fighting about it).

Some questions you can ask him as a jumping off point are: • What are some of your personal goals for ninth grade?

• What are you hoping to achieve academically this school year?

• How would you grade your homework performance so far?

• Do you think you get too much homework?

• Do you think the assignments are too difficult for you to do alone?

• What is your plan to over-

annual Halloween Hoot and parade, 6:30 p.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Light refreshments will be served. No registration required. Clifton Park-Halfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 3718622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Miniature candied apple bites are perfect for parties or everyday treats.

Alphabet Soup Learn a new letter of the alphabet through stories, songs and more, 10-10:30 a.m. Ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission of $8.

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

19 Thursday Family Fun: Outdoors After School Get some fresh air after school, stretch your legs, and have fun outdoors, 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.

come these challenges?

• How would you like to be supported in this area?

• What do you think the consequences of not completing your homework should be?

• Can I help you come up with a plan to meet your academic goals?

Now, a teenager is not likely to have sufficient answers for these questions; executive functioning skills are still immature in the adolescent brain. The point of asking him these types of questions is to strengthen his muscles of self-reflection, and to make clear that he is ultimately responsible for his academic successes and failures (better to learn this now than freshman year at college). He may not have the ability yet to course-correct this situation on his own, but he has to be part of the solution. So, this conversation with you is step one in the problem-solving effort. Step two is meeting together with his teacher(s) so that you can

Page 9

Science Explorers Discover the different ways in which science is all around us, 10:30 a.m. For ages 3 and up.

Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

20 Friday Little Wonders of Science: Moonbear’s Shadow Also Saturday. Introduce preschoolers to astronomy with “Moonbear’s Shadow” by Frank Asch and hands-on activities, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Cost is $2 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.

Continued on the next page get a better understanding of what is being asked of both him and you. The teacher should share ideas about how to best support your son. Step three is to come up with a plan for how the homework is to be completed each day, understanding that it is his responsibility and that your role is supportive, not punitive. Hopefully this new approach will allow your son to open up, accept help, and take ownership over his schoolwork.

Sources: Good, T. L., & Brophy, J. E. (2003). Looking in classrooms (9th ed.).

Boston: Allyn & Bacon Epstein, J. (2001). School, family, and community partnerships: Preparing educators and improving schools. Boulder, CO: Westview.

Julia Cadieux, a PCI Certified Parent Coach and Capital District mom, helps other parents look within for the answers they seek and believes there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to child-rearing. Send you questions and comments to julia@ thesupportedparent.com.

family fun for October

Calendar of events

20 Friday (cont.)

Rubber Ducky Fine Motor Playtime A time for children up to age 6 to play while developing fine motor skills, 10 a.m. Bethlehem Public Library, 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar. For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Candlelight Halloween Event The Candle Light Halloween Party will feature cannon fire demonstrations by fire light, along with historical storytelling by two local historians, Revolutionary War reenactors dressed as ghostly figures wandering through the property, and spooky guided tours of the Mansion, 7 p.m.

Cost is $5 per child, $7 per adult. Van Schaick Mansion, 1 Van Schaick Ave., Cohoes. For more information, call (518) 235-2699 or visit www. vanschaickmansion.org.

21 Saturdayy 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.

National Reptile Awareness Day Meet some of the scaly creatures that live at the museum, learn some cool facts and play a game that shows the relationship between animals and their homes, 1 p.m. Free with $5 museum admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology (CMOST), 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For more information, call (518) 235-2120 or visit www.cmost.org.

Halloween Owl Prowl Join science educator George Steele for our traditional end-of-the-year family program to search for, to listen for, and to maybe see owls, 7 p.m. Cost is $15 per person, $25 per family. George Landis Arboretum, 174 Lape Road, Esperance. For more information, call (518) 875-6935 or visit landisarboretum.org.

Discover the Pine Bush An extraordinary journey into the Albany Pine Bush – a globally rare, nationally significant and locally distinct inland pine barrens, 10:30 a.m.-noon. All ages. Free. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

It’s the Great Pumpkin: Movie and Crafts Enjoy this classic film together followed by some crafts, 11 a.m. Drop-in program for

families with children ages 3 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

S.T.E.A.M. Saturday A fun and exciting morning filled with programs designed around Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math, 10 a.m. For families with children ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs.

For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

22 Sunday Storytelling Sundays Traditionally, stories are shared after the first frost ensuring that the earth’s inhabitants are not distracted from their duties or neglectful of their responsibilities so step back, settle in, and enjoy a timeless Haudenosaunee tradition, 10 a.m. Free with museum admission of $8, $6.50 for seniors and students, and $5 for children. Iroquois Indian Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave. For more information, visit www.iroquoismuseum. org or call (518) 296-8949.

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Hallowtween Creativity Lab Join us for a monstrously good time zombifying some action figures, making Frankenstein marshmallow pops and reanimating some Frankenworms, 2-3 p.m. For grades 4-6; please register. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

Kids Cooking Class: Mini Cheese Quiches Kids get an interactive cooking class that focuses on kitchen techniques and understanding recipes. Once the recipes are ready students eat what they made, 11 a.m. Registration required; cost is $25. For ages 7 and up. Serendipity Arts Studio, 26 D Congress St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, call (518) 886-9553 or visit www.serendipityartsstudio.com.

Please Join Us For Our

FALL FAMILY FUN DAY Saturday, October 14 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. $5 per person

Games, Touch-a-Truck, arts and crafts, and food.

Sponsored by Friends of

24 Tuesday Tuesday for Tots Younger visitors gain preschool readiness skills in a fun and social environment, drop in 10 a.m.-noon. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

Continued on the next page

ADMISSIONS

OPEN HOUSE

APPLY NOW FOR FALL

2018

Toddler t Early Childhood t Elementary t Middle School

Saturday, November 4 12:30 - 3 pm

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OCTOBER 2017 — CDPARENTPAGES.COM 17

Calendar of events

family fun for October

25 Wednesday

Pick of the month

Sensory Night Hike A multi-sensory tour of the Pine Bush after sundown, where you willexplore nocturnal adaptations through hands-on activities, 6:30-7:30 p.m. For ages 6 and up. Cost is $3 per person and $5 per family. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www. albanypinebush.org.

Cunning Coyotes

Alphabet Soup Learn a new letter of the alphabet each week through the use of stories, songs, activates, crafts and more, 10-10:30 a.m. For ages 3 and up.

Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

Number Jungle Explores numbers through the use of songs, activities, crafts and more, 10:30-11 a.m. For ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

26 Thursday Family Fun: Outdoors After School Get some fresh air after school, stretch your legs, and have fun outdoors, 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 Weekly program to discover the different ways in which science is all around us, 10:30 a.m. For ages 3 and up. Free with museum admission of $8. Children’s Museum at Saratoga, 69 Caroline St., Saratoga Springs. For more information, visit cmssny.org or call (518) 584-5540.

Pokémon Card Gamers Bring your Pokémon trading cards to play and meet with other gamers, 4-5 p.m. All skill levels are welcome. For kids and families.

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

27 Friday World Language Storytime: Spanish with Señora Gloria Stories, songs and a simple craft; no previous exposure to other languages needed, 10 a.m.

This is a drop-in program for children ages 3

18 PARENT PAGES — OCTOBER 2017

Spooky Spiders Take a closer look at spides, including an opportunity to learn about the Chilean Rose Hair Tarantula that lives at CMOST, 1 p.m. For ages 5 and up. Free with $5 museum admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology (CMOST), 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For more information, call (518) 235-2120 or visit www. cmost.org.

Trick or Treat Street

Oct.

31

Looking for a spooky, safe, and fun place to celebrate Halloween? Bring your family to Trick or Treat Street for an evening of games, activities, ghastly treats, and candy, 5-8 p.m. No adult will be admitted without a child; no children under the age of 14 will be admitted without an adult. Free. Albany Law School Gymnasium, 80 New Scotland Ave., Albany.

and up accompanied by an adult. Clifton ParkHalfmoon Public Library, 475 Moe Road, Clifton Park. For more information, call 371-8622 or visit www.cphlibrary.org.

Busy Bees Open playgroup is for young visitors and their caregivers, 10-11 a.m. Ages birth to 24 months. Free with museum admission of $8.

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

28 Saturday International Observe the Moon Night Come to miSci for a special astronomy program by the Dudley Observatory for International Observe the Moon Night, 7-9 p.m. Free with 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 Spooktacular Tricks and treats for everyone with crafts, games, dancing, story-telling, and spooky science, noon-4 p.m. Children’s costume parade at 3 p.m. New York State Museum, 222 Madison Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 474-5877 or visit www.nysm.nysed.gov.

Pumpkin Science Do pumpkins sink or float? Are they fruits

or vegetables? Can you learn anything from pumpkin seeds? Join us as we use the scientific method to answer these questions and more, 1 p.m. For ages 5 and up. Free with $5 museum admission. The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology (CMOST), 250 Jordan Road, Troy. For more information, call (518) 235-2120 or visit www.cmost.org.

Happy Halloween Family Storytime and Party After some frightfully good, not-sospooky tales and songs, parade through the library and enjoy a mini-celebration and craft befitting the holiday, 10:30 a.m.noon. For ages 2-7 with caregiver; please register. Voorheesville Public Library, 51 School Road, Voorheesville. For more information, visit www.voorheesvillelibrary.org or call (518) 765-2791.

29 Sunday Mummy Birthday Children are invited to bring in a small doll or stuffed animal and learn about the mummification process by mummifying their own toy, noon. Free with museum admission of $10 for adults, $8 for students and seniors and $6 for children. Albany Institute of History & Art, 125 Washington Ave., Albany. For more information, call (518) 463-4478 or visit www.albanyinstitute.org.

Start inside with a short talk about the history and biology of the eastern coyote then hike 0.9 miles in the preserve as we pause to look for coyote signs and explore the habitat of one of the smartest, most elusive animals in the Pine Bush, 1-2:30 p.m. For ages 6 and up. Cost is $3 per person and $5 per family. Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany. For more information, call 456-0655 or visit www.albanypinebush.org.

Trunk or Treat This event will be held rain or shine and is open to all ages. There will be entertainment, fun and lots of candy at this free community event, 5-6:30 p.m. Parkside Church and The Mission Community Church, 14 Jarose Place, Clifton Park. Visit www.parksidecc.org for more information.

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 is $5-$10 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.

Storytelling Sundays Traditionally, stories are shared after the first frost so step back, settle in, and enjoy a timeless Haudenosaunee tradition, 10 a.m. Free with museum admission of $8, $6.50 for seniors and students, and $5 for children. Iroquois Indian Museum, 324 Caverns Road, Howes Cave. For more information, visit www.iroquoismuseum. org or call (518) 296-8949.

31 Tuesday Trick or Treat at the Library Stop by the Children’s Place any time during the above times and trick or treat in a safe, dry place, 10:15-10:45 a.m. or 2:15-2:45 p.m. Costumes are optional, but fun is not! Treat bags will be provided. For ages 0-6 and families.

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

Halloween Safety Tips 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 nontoxic 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.

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.

BEFORE NIGHTFALL ON HALLOWEEN: Never cut across yards or use alleys.

A good meal prior to parties and trick-orNever enter a stranger’s home or car for a treat. treating will discourage youngsters from filling Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations. up on Halloween treats.

Always walk. Never run across a street.

Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom). or special effects, and do not block exit doors.

Remove any mask or item that will limit While children can help with the fun of eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or designing a Jack O’ Lantern, leave the carving alley. to adults.

Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns Don’t assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in because one car stops, doesn’t mean others decorations and costumes. will.

Always keep Jack O’ Lanterns and hot electric Never consume unwrapped food items or open lamps far away from drapes, decorations, beverages that may be offered. flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking.

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

Do not permit children to bicycle, roller-blade or skateboard.

Law Enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful Agree on a specific time when revelers must activity. return home.

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

Wait until children are home to sort and check Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible household pets for an evening of frightful Adult should closely examine all treats sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or and cats are wearing collars and proper suspicious items. identification tags. Consult your veterinarian Try to apportion treats for the days following for further advice.

Halloween.

FROM ALL OF US AT...

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

Have a safe & Happy Halloween

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