Brooklyn Family February 2015 Features Columns 6 Tails of Love 16 Fabulyss Finds Love Can Be Expressed in Many Ways by Lyss Stern by Patrick Hempfing 18 Dear Dr

DentalChildren’s HealthFebruary 2015 BROOKLYN FREE Family Where Every Child Matters Love is all around! • Showing kids love • Recharging a long-time relationship • Loving your in-laws!

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PIER 86, W. 46TH STREET AND 12TH AVENUE, NEW YORK CITY Brooklyn Family February 2015 Features columns 6 Tails of love 16 FabuLYSS Finds Love can be expressed in many ways By lySS Stern By Patrick HemPfing 18 Dear Dr. Karyn 8 Simple ways to show your kids love By Dr. karyn gorDon By gayla grace 28 Mommy 101 10 Filing taxes for child care By angelica SereDa Navigating the rules for paying your caregivers By care.com 34 Behavior & Beyond By Dr. marcie Beigel 12 Misty Copeland: Breaking down 46 Divorce & Separation barriers By lee cHaBin, eSq. A ballerina who inspires — on and off the stage By SHnieka l. JoHnSon 50 Family Health 14 Falling in love again By Dr. PramoD narula, mD Make time for romance with your spouse — over 52 Healthy Living and over again By Danielle Sullivan By carolyn WaterBury-tieman 24 54 Parents Helping Parents 22 Pediatric dentists By SHaron c. PeterS Why growing teeth need a specialist By Dr. taneSHa franciS 56 Good Sense Eating By cHriStine m. PalumBo, rD 24 Dental health for kids February is National Children’s Dental Health Month 58 The Book Worm By Jamie loBer By terri ScHlicHenmeyer 30 Learning to love your mother-in-law 60 A Letter from College — or daughter-in-law! By aglaia Ho How to make the most of a relationship with a bad 62 Just Write Mom reputation By Danielle Sullivan By Jan Pierce 38 64 Ask an Attorney 32 Strangely magical, or magically By aliSon arDen BeSunDer, eSq. strange? Kid movie critics review ‘Strange Magic’ 76 New & Noteworthy By liSa J. curtiS 36 Secrets to earning extra money Six ways to earn free goods, prizes, and cash By alexa BigWarfe calendar 38 Family fun in Philly 70 February Events Full of history and so close to New York! By SHnieka l. JoHnSon special sections 44 Off the walls 20 Children’s Dental Health How museum family guides can enrich children’s experience 40 Catholic Schools Directory By SHnieka l. JoHnSon 77 The Marketplace 48 Ice queens This team is taking the figure skating world by storm By tammy ScilePPi 68 Twists, turns with cuddly character Kid movie critics review ‘Paddington’ 70

February 2015 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 3 Letter from the publisher Desperate need of love ’m pretty sure it taged by an array of have naturally written about ways ing to learn a new way of operating was more than St. devastation. We pale to love better and more success- through this magical thing we call I Valentine’s Day with disbelief that any fully. Perhaps more importantly, love. When to give and when not that prompted a cel- child’s reality could we have attempted to talk about to becomes our new mantra and ebration of love in the be so shocking and so methods for teaching love to our modus operandi. month of February. devoid of love that in children. We have had experts in Enjoy this crazy winter month Living in the Northeast it’s place is obscenity. this topic give us some sound di- and have fun in the snow and ice. means that by now we Yet we also know these rection to find some keys to the For sure, we will be getting it. It’s are sick and tired of are truths and that the process. We have even touched on February in the Northeast. Be joy- winter and are looking headlines don’t lie. the topic of in-laws and it’s not just ful and love each other. As Lennon forward to anything to Knowing these hor- comedians who understand the sig- and McCartney said “Love is the help us feel warm and nurtured. rendous truths should prompt all nificance of that source of possible Answer.” Without a doubt. Just like holiday lights at Winter of us who are largely blessed with friction. Thanks for reading. Solstice, love and hearts and choc- prosperity, health, and opportu- In thinking about love, I my- olate candy sounds pretty darned nity, the means and skill to be pro- self, have pondered the difficulty good in early February. found nurturers and love givers/ of letting go as well as holding on. As we read the horrible news teachers. Sometimes the better expression headlines emerging around the We have mused on this topic of of love is in not being active, but in globe, one has little doubt that this love in many ways in this issue. We stepping back and watching from world is in desperate need of love. have of course pointed out events afar. For me and for most “empty- Susan Weiss-Voskidis, We read about the horrors of chil- around town that will help us cel- nesters” not being the parent who Publisher/Excutive Editor dren whose childhoods are sabo- ebrate the Cupid in us all and we is loving up close anymore is hav- [email protected]

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tight ponytails to prepare Jessie’s hair for the scissors, I observed a mother holding her 1-year-old son in the chair next to Jessie’s. The little guy did pretty well until the hairdresser broke out her noisy shaver, which resulted in a few tears. My eyes moved back and forth between the two young customers. The one received a slight trim, while the other lost a lot of hair. My mind wandered back to the scene in our kitchen years ago, when Mattie gave Jessie her first haircut. At the time, I highly questioned her decision to do it herself, as I remembered Mattie’s only haircut- ting experience, the “trim” she gave our first dog. The long strands on the sheltie’s hindquarters touched the ground and dragged leaves into the house. That didn’t happen after Mattie made some lopsided cuts and then had to even them out. The remaining fur barely covered the poor dog’s behind. Thank goodness dogs can’t talk — oh that’s right, mine is competing to be my wife’s Valentine. The hairdresser cut off Jessie’s two ponytails and carefully placed Tails them in a plastic bag, then posed with our pretty, short-haired girl for some pictures. At home, we addressed a padded envelope and slid in the bag containing Jessie’s hair, along with her name and address. Many times, I’ve left the post office of love feeling happy that in a few days, a the last few years, as Jessie started card, letter, or photo I had mailed Love can be Cherish The lobbying for Mattie to choose her. would make someone’s day. I won’t Could Valentine’s Day get any more soon forget the feeling I had when I MoMenTs challenging? Surprisingly, yes. mailed my daughter’s hair. Love can expressed in Jessie is now also campaigning on be expressed in many ways. By Patrick HemPfing behalf of our dog, Sadie, who joined in I’m confident that in the days many ways the competition to be Mattie’s Valen- ahead, I’ll overcome my daughter’s attie, will you be my tine. Jessie sends e-mails and hand- rivalry, as well as my dog’s, and win Valentine?” On Feb. 1, written notes, some stamped with an Mattie’s heart for another Valentine’s “M I’ll pose this question inked dog paw, and often with draw- Day. And when I hug my Valentine to my wife of almost 30 years. She’ll ings or cut-out hearts, signed by the this year, I’ll think about other hus- be noncommittal. Over the 14 days dog. One example read, “Dear Woofy bands who are thankful they can hug that follow, I’ll continue to romance Mom, I love you! Be my Woofitine.” their wives, regardless of how much Mattie with poems, small gifts, and How can I compete with dog love? hair either spouse has. various acts of service in an effort to Recently, though, I witnessed a Until next month, remember to convince her that I’m the Valentine beautiful display of love that didn’t cherish the moments. for her. Finally, late in the evening on involve poetry, flowers, chocolate If you’d like to learn more about Valentine’s Day, Mattie will say, “Yes, — or removing ink from a dog’s paw. Pantene Beautiful Lengths and I’ll be your Valentine this year.” The love came from Jessie’s head as Locks of Love hair donation oppor- We started playing this game be- she had nine inches of hair cut off tunities, please check out their web- fore we were married. It’s not easy to and donated it to an organization sites at http://pantene.com/en-us/ come up with fresh rhymes 14 times that makes wigs for women fighting experience-main-section2/beautiful- each February, even for a writer. A cancer. Of course, I had my camera lengths and www.locksoflove.org/. wiser man would have quit years and camcorder to capture Jessie’s Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year pro- ago. I thought things would get eas- haircut. Mattie pulled away from fessional career in banking, accounting, ier when my 10-year-old daughter, work. Even Jessie’s grandmother, and auditing before he became a father Jessie, was younger. She joined in who happened to be in town, came at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, the efforts to convince her mom to to watch. The beauty salon should stay-at-home dad, and writer. Follow him select me. Unfortunately, my propo- have sold tickets. at www.facebook.com/patricklhempfing nent turned into my opponent during As the hairdresser formed two and on Twitter @PatrickHempfing.

6 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 EBRATIN EL G C YEARS 0 The School of American Ballet AT LINCOLN CENTER

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February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 7 Refrain from multi-tasking and focus on their needs. • Pa t i e n t l y help them with homework. Don’t raise your voice when you have to explain it one more time. • A sk for their ideas when you plan your next vacation. Look at fun places to visit on the computer and dream together for future trips. • S i t under the stars and talk about the beauty of god’s creation. • Ta ke off your serious hat and make them laugh. Tell jokes or watch a funny movie together. Tickle them until they cry. • O f fe r a no-rules day. Let your kids stay in their pjs all day and eat and play whatever they want. • A sk your child to sing to you. Join in and finish the song as a duet. Let your child know that you love hearing her beautiful voice. • Surprise them with a simple gift through the mail such as a comic book, a glow-in-the-dark pencil, or their favorite player’s card. Include a note of “I love you.” • M a ke s’mores around the fire pit or roast marshmallows in the fire- for it. Whether it’s a sensitive spirit place. Include a cup of hot cocoa or toward a sibling or a quick-to-forgive favorite beverage with it. Simple ways to gesture toward friends, tell them how • Start fun traditions for holidays it makes them special. and birthdays that your child can • I n d u l g e in a child-specific treat, look forward to as a family. and enjoy some one-on-one time to- • G e t to know their friends and show your kids gether. Ask for input and make plans encourage healthy friendships. Take ahead so they know it’s a special everyone out for a movie night or occasion. bowling night once in a while. • C o m p l i m e n t your child in front of • B e their biggest fan. Let them another adult. Be specific with an ex- experiment with sporting activities, ample of good behavior as you beam music lessons, and other extracur- with pride. ricular activities. Cheer them on as • P r a i s e their efforts, not just re- they seek to find what fits for them. sults. Don’t expect perfection on • A l l ow them to be different from every chore or straight-As on every you. love report card. Let them know you no- • Tr e a t them with respect. Don’t By Gayla Grace tice when they do their best. interrupt when they’re talking. Ask • L e t them pick their favorite book for their opinion as often as possible our kids know you love them, and read to them, even when you and include them in family decisions right? I’m sure they could still don’t want to. as they get older. Y use a few extra strokes or • Pl ay inside together on a rainy • H u g , kiss, and shower them with simple reminders of how important day. Make forts with chairs and blan- physical affection every day. Tell they are to you. Try some new ways kets or play a game of hide-and-seek. them at least once a day, “I love you.” this month to say, “I love you.” • Accompany them to walk the • Surprise them with a new game dog. Ask about their day at school Books to help your on Saturday morning. Enjoy donuts or a budding friendship. Listen more kids feel loved and hot chocolate while learning to than you talk. “You Are Special” by Max Lucado play the game. Be sure to include the • A l l ow them to be messy. Play “Little Things Long Remembered: whole family. with finger paints and Play-Doh. Go Making Your Children Feel Special • Te l l them the story of their birth. outside and spray Silly String on each Every Day” by Susan Newman Show pictures of how they looked as other. “101 Ways to Make Your Child Feel a newborn, and talk about who came • D i sp l ay their artwork on your Special” by Vicki Lansky to visit in the beginning. Make sure refrigerator or window. Talk about “Oh, The Places You’ll Go” by Dr. they know how excited you were what a great job they did and how Seuss when they entered your life. you love to look at it every day. As a freelance journalist, Gayla Grace • L o v e them despite their faults. • P u t a surprise in their lunch. In- loves sharing experiences to encourage Offer them grace freely and often. clude a note that says, “I love you.” other parents. She is thankful for her five • F i n d a unique quality about each • G e t off social media and com- children, who love her despite her not- of your children and praise them pletely tune in when they’re talking. so-perfect parenting.

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February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 9 W-2s are due on Jan. 31, but the IRS allows an additional business day to take care of this requirement since the due date is on a Saturday. Send Form W-2 Copy A and Form W-3 to the Social Security Admin- Filing taxes istration by March 2. These forms list the same information as the W-2 form you provide your employee. The Social Security Administration uses these forms to give her credit toward her eventual Social Security income and Medicare during her re- for child care tirement years. Note: Families that file their W-2 By Care.Com your employee during the months Copy A electronically have an ex- Navigating of September, October, November, tended deadline of March 31 and do he new year is here, and and December, as well as pay the So- not have to file a W-3. the rules for many families are settling cial Security, Medicare, and federal Attach a Schedule H to your per- T back down from the holiday unemployment insurance taxes you sonal income tax return. A Schedule rush. But for the millions of fami- owe as a household employer. H is used to summarize the Social Se- paying your lies that hired a nanny, babysitter, NOTE: Families are allowed to in- curity, Medicare, federal unemploy- or other childcare professional to clude this 1040-ES payment with their ment insurance and federal income caregivers work in their home last year, there’s personal income tax return. However, taxes sent to the IRS throughout the still work to do before they can say there is a risk the family could be as- year. The total household employ- goodbye to 2014. That’s because the sessed an underpayment penalty due ment taxes you paid for 2014 should IRS considers any family that pays to the IRS’s safe harbor rules. be entered on line 60a on your per- $1,900 or more to one of these em- File your state tax returns (gener- sonal income tax return. ployees to be a household employer ally) by Feb. 2. All families must file Once these items are checked off with tax responsibilities similar to their state unemployment insurance your list, you’ve completed all your many businesses. taxes and most will also file state in- household employer tax responsi- The majority of these responsi- come tax returns (if they live in state bilities for 2014! Additionally, you’ve bilities have already been met, but with income taxes). However, the fre- helped your employee both in the below are what families should do quency the family has to file and the short and long-term, because paying between now and the April 15 tax- deadline may not be the same for all legally allows her to have the follow- filing deadline to make sure their families. Generally, state unemploy- ing benefits: taxes and their employee’s taxes are ment insurance and state income employment history. An employ- properly taken care of: tax returns are filed quarterly and ment history is required for a car By Jan. 15, send your fourth esti- due by the last day of the month fol- loan, a mortgage, and other lines of mated tax payment to the IRS. You lowing quarter close. However, this credit. If your employment is not doc- will use IRS Form 1040-ES to send the year that day falls on a Saturday, and umented, it’s as if you don’t work. Social Security, Medicare, and fed- many states will allow one additional Unemployment benefits. When eral income taxes you withheld from business day for returns to be filed. paid legally, employees are entitled That means families will need to receive approximately 50 percent to file their fourth quarter of their salary for up to six months if state tax returns no later than they lose their job due to no fault of Feb. 2. To check the require- their own. ments in your state, visit www. Social Security and medicare myhomepay.com/Answers/ benefits. When your employee re- RequirementsByState. tires, she’ll receive money for living NOTE: If you live in a state and medical expenses. How much with income taxes, you may she receives is based on how much also be required to file an an- is paid into her Social Security ac- nual reconciliation form. The count. Those who are paid under the form simply summarizes the table don’t receive any retirement state income taxes you with- benefits, so they’ll never be able to held from your employee dur- stop working. ing 2014. Healthcare subsidies. The Af- Prepare and send your em- fordable Care Act requires all indi- ployee a W-2 by Feb. 2. You viduals to have health insurance or have the option of mailing the pay a fine. If your employees pur- W-2 or giving her the form in chases an individual policy on the person, but she’ll need it to file health insurance Marketplace and is her personal income tax re- paid on the books, they could qualify turn. The W-2 lists the wages for a subsidy to reduce the cost of she earned from you and the their premiums. taxes you withheld from her It is tax season, and the experts at pay throughout the year. Like Care.com HomePay can offer excellent the state returns, normally helpful insight.

10 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 11 Misty Copeland Breaking down barriers

By Shnieka L. JohnSon perform with the American Ballet book itself is dedicated to her men- A ballerina Theatre. She has endured not only tor Raven Wilkinson, the first Afri- isty Copeland’s path to a difficult upbringing that called for can-American ballerina to tour the who inspires dance was not a tradi- much adversity, but also cultural country. M tional one, as she entered pressure associated with the role Copeland has been very vocal the practice quite late. She was she has assumed. about the lack of diversity in clas- — on and off 13 when first introduced to bal- In her children’s picture book, sical ballet. She has worked very let, and she took classes offered “Firebird” (profiled in last month’s closely with the development of the stage at her local Boys & Girls Club. Bookworm story), which is a col- Project Plié, a comprehensive ini- Quickly considered a prodigy, she laboration with author and illustra- tiative to increase racial and eth- has spent the entirety of her career tor Christopher Myers, Copeland nic representation in ballet. Proj- with the American Ballet Theatre seeks to inspire other young danc- ect Plié seeks to combine training (the only African-American woman ers. The title holds significance, and support of ballet students and to do so). She is the third soloist as it was one of the first princi- dance teachers from underrepre- of African-American background pal roles that she performed for sented communities. Project Plié (and the first in two decades) to the American Ballet Theatre. The will also include a new partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to introduce participants to bal- Project Plié let — aiming to take an important Project Plié will award the fol- step toward helping the classical lowing annual scholarships to ballet profession better reflect the promising students, aged 9 to 18: racial and ethnic diversity of our • 15 Full Scholarships to attend country. the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis I recently spoke to Misty Cope- School at American Ballet Theatre land about being a child prodigy, Children’s and Pre-Professional Di- her lengthy career with the Ameri- visions. can Ballet Theatre, and how she • 15 Full Scholarships to attend plans to influence diversity in clas- American Ballet Theatre’s Summer sical ballet. Intensive Programs, five of which Shnieka Johnson: You were a will include housing stipends. teen when you were first intro- • 10 Full Scholarships to A.B.T.’s duced to ballet and were quickly Young Dancer Summer Workshop considered a prodigy. When did in New York City, a two-week pro- you come to the realization that gram for young dancers, aged 9 this was indeed your passion? to 12. Misty Copeland: I realized ballet Scholarship recipients will be was my passion a few weeks after identified through auditions con- I took my first class. The process ducted throughout the United in the studio was so intriguing to States and nominations made by Photo by Rosalie O’Connor me. Knowing everyday I was going A.B.T.-certified teachers during Erica Lall and Naazir Muhammad of Project Plie. to learn something new was some- the Company’s 25-city Summer In- thing I needed in my life at that tensive audition tour and at master to receive comprehensive training toring, health assessments, career time. Something structured, but ar- classes held in all five boroughs of in classical dance; financial as- guidance and mentoring from the tistic. Performing was such a thrill. New York City. Project Plié schol- sistance for uniforms, shoes, and theater’s dancers and teaching SJ: How did you initially become arship recipients will be eligible travel; and access to academic tu- staff. affiliated with A.B.T.? MC: My first ballet teacher, Cindy,

12 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 (Top) Misty Copeland with members of Boys & Girls Club of America. (Above) Copeland with author and illustrator Christopher Myers, who co-wrote “Firebird.”

forts in advancing diversity in bal- Upcoming American Ballet The- Photo by Jade Young let with “Project Plié” for young atre performances with Misty Cope- showed me videos of ballerinas to the Firebird is a leader and mentor girls of diverse backgrounds. Can land: show me what was possible. They for young dancers, the same type you tell me more about your role • “ L e s Sylphides” – May 14 evening were all A.B.T. ballerinas. My first of inspiration that Raven Wilkinson with that? (New York, NY) live ballet performance was A.B.T.’s was for me. MC: I am on the advisory coun- • “ L a Bayadère” – June 2 evening “Don Quixote” at the Music Center SJ: You mention Raven Wilkin- cil of Project Plié. A.B.T.’s C.E.O. (New York, NY) in Los Angeles. Paloma Herrera and son as inspiration to you. When Rachel Moore came to me directly • “ R o m e o and Juliet” – June 20 Angel Corella were the leads. I fell were you first introduced to her with the idea. She wanted to hear matinee (New York, NY) in love with the company. work? At what time were you able my experiences and what changes • “ Sw a n Lake” – June 24 matinee SJ: Your most-recently pub- to share this with her? needed to be made to create an (New York, NY) lished work is in partnership with MC: I saw the “Ballet Russes” environment where minority danc- For more visit: author and illustrator Christopher documentary when I was maybe ers felt support from their peers • www.booksofwonder.com Myers for the picture book “Fire- 27 years old. I immediately felt and the staff. The strongest asset I •www.bgca.org bird.” Why did you choose that a connection and attachment to bring is simply my experiences. •global.penguinrandomhouse. character to center the children’s her being a black ballerina. It was SJ: What advice do you give com book? To share this message? amazing to hear her struggles and young aspiring ballet dancers? •www.A.B.T..org MC: Firebird was the first lead- see someone who looked like me. It MC: Believe in yourself. Surround •www.A.B.T..org/education/pro- ing classical role I danced with wasn’t until I was maybe 28 that I yourself with people who are going jectplie A.B.T. She is a powerful character met her. I cried when I met her. She to be your support system during Shnieka Johnson is an education con- who had been portrayed by some was my hero and she was real! those moments when you may have sultant and freelance writer. She is based of the most iconic ballerinas in his- SJ: You have openly spoken doubts and fears. Enjoy the process in Manhattan where she resides with her tory. Christopher and I took that about what it is like to be an “only” of becoming your best self! husband and son. Contact her via her character and made her me. Misty in your field. A.B.T. has made ef- • • • website: www.shniekajohnson.com.

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 13 municative, distant, and to take thee for granted for as long as we both shall live.” All too often, I see couples in- vesting more time, energy, thought, and money on planning and prepar- Falling in ing for their wedding day than they will ever spend on their relationship again. Maybe we need to require that couples be married for at least a year, better yet five years, before they get a wedding. If only we were love again as committed to creating lifelong, satisfying relationships as we are to throwing perfect weddings! Then By Carolyn WaterBury- tions make it impossible to touch one maybe all our talk about the impor- Make time for tieman piece without moving all the others. tance, value, and even sacredness Some may teeter wildly while others of marriage would be more than romance with s Valentine’s Day rolls around barely quiver, but they all move. The just talk. again, I find myself reflecting same is true of families. What affects One of the most common excuses your spouse A on love relationships in gen- a person in one relationship will af- for a marriage gone stale is lack eral and marriage in particular. You fect all of her other relationships. In of time. Well, I’m here to tell you may be wondering why I am writing short, your parenting will be affected that courting couples have the same — over and about marriage in a parent resource by your marriage and vice versa. 24 hours in their day as married magazine. The answer is simple: the I have been puzzling over the couples. Courting couples are often over again model for marriage (or any commit- question of why we assume dating full-time students who hold jobs, or ted relationship) we provide for our and courtship are active and stimu- are both employed full time, or em- children has implications for genera- lating, whereas marriage is passive ployed full time and have children. tions to come. and routine? Most wedding ceremo- Married couples who complain of The intricate connection between nies are chock full of action words having no time for each other some- marriage and parenting can perhaps — promises to love, honor, cherish, how find time to chat and text or do best be illustrated by comparing a support, nurture. So far, I haven’t at- lunch with friends or co-workers, family to a mobile. If you have ever tended a wedding in which one of the watch television, surf the net, and carefully observed a mobile, you vows was, “I promise to become less participate in social media. probably noticed that all the connec- attractive, less affectionate, uncom- Clearly, what has changed are a

14 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 couple’s priorities, not the amount Learn and practice rules for fight- of time available. When you care ing fair. Learn and practice the about someone, you make time to steps for problem solving. First TIRED OF FIGHTING let them know it. If only couples and foremost, identify and define would work as hard to keep each the problem. The more accurately OVER GRADES? other as they did to get each other you define the problem, the more in the first place. The key word likely you are to arrive at a mutu- here being “work.” Every one of us ally agreed upon, effective solu- HUNTINGTON CAN HELP. who has ever been involved in a tion. (If you discover issues in your For over 37 years, Huntington’s highly trained tutors have given students committed relationship knows how marriage that you are not sure how the skills, confidence, and motivation needed to get back on the right track. to court. We must have been fairly to address, get professional help. good at it at one time. There is no Marital therapy is not restricted ACADEMIC SKILLS K-12 Reading • Writing • Math • Study Skills • Spelling • Vocabulary • Phonics good reason for stopping. Marriage to couples with serious problems. SUBJECT TUTORING MIDDLE SCHOOL-COLLEGE doesn’t extinguish the desire to be Seek help before what is simply ir- Pre-Algebra • Algebra • Geometry • Trigonometry • Pre-Calculus courted. ritating becomes a crisis.) Calculus • Earth Science • Biology • Chemistry • Physics As a culture, we are in love with Revisit your courtship. Re- EXAM PREP SAT • PSAT/NMSQT • ACT falling in love. Unfortunately, this search has shown that one char- Advanced Placement (AP)*• State Tests • GED • ASVAB obsession with falling in love is not acteristic of couples in lasting ISEE • SSAT • SHSAT • ELA • Regents • TACHS • HCHS conducive to long-term, commit- marriages is a fond recollection Huntington is accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA). To find out more about Huntington Tutoring Programs, CALL NOW! ted relationships like marriage. But of their earliest times together perhaps it could be if we changed — their meeting and courtship. WHEN YOU the rules a bit. We tend to believe Take time to recall how you met $ ** that falling in love with a person and what you did to attract one SAVE 100 CALL TODAY! can happen only once. Then when another in the first place. If it you fall out of love with that per- worked then, chances are it will son, you move on to the next. The work now. 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None of these entities were involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this program. **Offer valid for Academic Evaluation or Tuition, new students only. Not valid with any other offer. HPA101-BKFam (2/15) Falling in love is easy. Staying in Create opportunities for fall- love is the real challenge. Here are ing in love. Schedule time to a few suggestions for meeting the spend together regularly. Spur-of- challenge: the-moment outings are lovely, but Continue becoming yourself. don’t depend on them happening I once heard a university provost in the fast-paced lives we live. Take say, “Becoming is superior to a walk and talk. Learn how to do Antonette Jones, Deangelo Brown and being.” “Being” describes a static something new as a couple. Choose TNA Professional Wrestler Kurt Angle state, while “becoming” recognizes a book and agree to read and dis- present the active, evolving nature of the cuss it. Better yet, read aloud to self. Becoming also suggests that one another. Time together doesn’t Dare To Be Extraordinary’s the process is one over which we have to be spontaneous or expen- 1st Annual National Developmental Disabilities have control. Take responsibility sive to be meaningful. Awareness Month Expo for knowing what your needs are, Relationships that last involve for communicating them to oth- two people committed to spend- March 21, 2015 March 21, 2015 ers, and for getting them met. Your ing a lifetime falling in love again. 12:30–3:30 p.m. spouse is not capable of know- So that is my wish for you this Pacplex Center ing or responsible for fulfilling all Valentine’s Day. May you look for 1500 Paerdegat BE AN EXHIBITOR/VENDOR your needs. And the only way he opportunities and find reasons to Avenue N Brooklyn, NY can know what you need or want fall in love with one another over Dare to Be Extraordinary Children’s Expo is our opportunity 11236 to meet face-to-face with parents, educators, facilitators, is if you tell him. Have realistic and over for as long as you both fellow organizations, providers and manufacturers. expectations for yourself and oth- shall live. You and your children Don’t miss out on your chance to take home orders ers. Remember, the only person will reap the rewards. Special Guests Scheduled to and get leads that will help sustain your business. you can change is yourself. Con- Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman has Appear: To register and to request a vendor registration form, tinue becoming the best version degrees in Child Development, Fam- call the Dare to Be Extraordinary offi ce at 347.831.5688 Kurt Angle & or email us at [email protected]. of yourself. ily Studies, and Marriage and Family Phil Taitt Learn and practice effective Therapy. Waterbury-Tieman has been For information on Exhibit Space, Tables and Pricing, Other guests visit us at www.daretobeextraordinary.org. communication. Increase your married for 29 years and has two sons, may be added feeling word vocabulary. The more ages 24 and 14. She spent 15 years in “Events that empower Special Needs Children and accurately you can identify your various agencies and clinics as a fam- equip parents with the resources to build, protect Games feelings, the more likely you are ily therapist and parent educator and Photo Shoots and ensure greater developmental health to enjoy to effectively express them and has written extensively on the topic of Entertainment throughout the years ahead.” —Antonette Jones get the associated needs met. Ac- parenting. To read more, visit www. cept conflict as a natural part of aparent4life.com or follow A Parent any intimate relationship. Arguing for Life on Facebook. To contact her, does not have to be destructive. please e-mail [email protected].

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 15 Women Cupid and the city hether you are watch- our family? Should we stay ing a romantic film, eat- in the city — or is it pos- W ing a DeLysscious box sibly time to go where the of chocolate, or having a candlelit grass is literally greener — dinner, you’re sure to have a the suburbs? “ wonderful, lovable, #FabULyss It is a tough decision for ev- Valentine’s Day! If you’re still eryone involved, parents and kids looking for something to do, alike. There is no right answer, and Fabulyss try these suggestions. for many there are considerations not If you are able to score a just including finances, schools, com- Finds sitter (Urban Sitter www. mutes — but more importantly how Lyss stern urbansitter.com and a family will be raised. There is not a DK Nannies www. perfect answer for any one family, and dknannies.com are it is a very subjective process. great babysitting ser- For those that end up staying vices), try and make a reservation there are endless things to discuss at one of my favorite DeLysscious such as summers and the plan for restaurants — Il Mulino, Daniel, and your name — and you that, schools and more. For those Gramercy Tavern, just to name a few. receive a PDF to print at home. that decide to leave for the ’burbs, A new favorite of mine is The Upsider, www.sophieandlili.com. the tough part then begins of decid- located in Midtown East (you will . . . ing where to go. A mother of four love this awesome new restaurant). I am always looking for new #Fab- young kids, who a few years ago was Il Mulino [86 W. Third St. between ULyuss children’s books to read with in the same situation of leaving the Thompson and Sullivan streets in NoHo, my kids. I recently came across the city and trying to figure out where (212) 673–3783; and 37 E. 60th St. at new book written by Wall Street to go, created a unique business Madison Avenue in Midtown, (212) 750– mogul and dad Steven Schoenfeld, centered around this move to the 3270, ilmulino.com] “Can You Buy Me the Wind?”, a chil- suburbs. It was extremely difficult to Daniel [60 E. 65th St. between Park dren’s book for this age of instant figure out where to look and, more and Madison avenues in Midtown, (212) gratification. Inspired by actual importantly, get truly objective ad- 288–0033, danielnyc.com] events between his daughter and vice on which suburbs to look in. She Gramercy Tavern [42 E. 20th St. be- her grandparents, “Can You Buy Me had no idea where to start, and knew tween Park Avenue S and Broadway the Wind?” illustrates the tug-of-war that the wrong decision of where to in the Flatiron District, (212) 477–0777, between teaching values and making move would be a costly one both gramercytavern.com] a child happy. When Sammy’s grand- emotionally and financially. The Upsider [1004 Second Ave. at parents come to sit, they decide that Alison Bernstein launched the E. 53rd Street in Midtown East, (646) the 4-year-old should earn the toy Suburban Jungle Realty Group to 726–4760, theupsidernyc.com] she wants by doing simple chores, help young families free of charge. It Then, kick off Valentine’s Day and Sammy is eager to comply. is the first of its kind — a real estate weekend and the start of the city’s But when there is no wind to fly the strategic relocation firm dedicated public school’s February break by kite, Sammy asks grandma to buy her exclusively to helping young families attending The DivaMoms Sweetest the wind — a rational question for a leave New York City for the suburbs! Valentine Party at Creative Dreams child who up until then has received Each family works with their per- Party for singing, dancing, and deco- everything she ever asked for. After sonal strategist as well as our reloca- rating chocolates with your sweet learning about the value of hard work, tion team to find the right town, and little valentines. Sammy hears that not everything can then of course the right home! Their The DivaMoms Sweetest Valentine be earned or bought. “Can You Buy award-winning “town first” approach Party at Creative Dreams Party (25 Wa- Me the Wind?” addresses both issues to real estate helps to make certain terside Plaza at E. 26th Street in Rose in a fun, light-hearted way. Sammy ab- that families are looking in the right Hill, [email protected]) on Feb. 13 sorbs a great lesson about working to places, and more importantly asking from 5 to 7 pm. earn the kite that she wants, but more the right questions. Valentines sure have come a long important, she learns that it takes All of their services are free. The way from the generic boxed sets we more than money to earn the things firm has now helped hundreds of bought in the drugstore back when in life that really matter. Illustrated families, and is now expanding to Chi- we were kids (I know, I’m dating my- by Chuck Gonzales. It is available at cago, San Francisco, LA and Miami. self). One of my favorite designers, bookstores and online through www. www.suburbanjunglerealty.com Sophie & Lilli, is offering customized canyoubuymethewind.com and www. Wishing everyone a sweet Valen- Valentine’s cards where you get to amazon.com. tine’s Day filled with lots of hugs and pick out a girl with a likeness to you. . . . kisses! They’re available, in two styles — Many young families are always Lyss Stern is the founder of DivaLyss- fill in your own info or custom with asking me “How do we want to raise cious Moms (www.divamoms.com).

16 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 Women Cupid and the city hether you are watch- our family? Should we stay ing a romantic film, eat- in the city — or is it pos- W ing a DeLysscious box sibly time to go where the of chocolate, or having a candlelit grass is literally greener — dinner, you’re sure to have a the suburbs? “ wonderful, lovable, #FabULyss It is a tough decision for ev- Valentine’s Day! If you’re still eryone involved, parents and kids looking for something to do, alike. There is no right answer, and Fabulyss try these suggestions. for many there are considerations not If you are able to score a just including finances, schools, com- Finds sitter (Urban Sitter www. mutes — but more importantly how Lyss stern urbansitter.com and a family will be raised. There is not a DK Nannies www. perfect answer for any one family, and dknannies.com are it is a very subjective process. great babysitting ser- For those that end up staying vices), try and make a reservation there are endless things to discuss at one of my favorite DeLysscious such as summers and the plan for inin BrooklynBrooklyn BridgeBridge ParkPark restaurants — Il Mulino, Daniel, and your name — and you that, schools and more. For those Gramercy Tavern, just to name a few. receive a PDF to print at home. that decide to leave for the ’burbs, A new favorite of mine is The Upsider, www.sophieandlili.com. the tough part then begins of decid- Amazing Summers...Lifelong Friends located in Midtown East (you will . . . ing where to go. A mother of four - Traditional Day Camp for kids ages 5-11 love this awesome new restaurant). I am always looking for new #Fab- young kids, who a few years ago was Il Mulino [86 W. Third St. between ULyuss children’s books to read with in the same situation of leaving the - Early Start Imagination Camp for pre-K kids ages 3-5 Thompson and Sullivan streets in NoHo, my kids. I recently came across the city and trying to figure out where - Teen Travel for emerging teens ages 12-14 (212) 673–3783; and 37 E. 60th St. at new book written by Wall Street to go, created a unique business Madison Avenue in Midtown, (212) 750– mogul and dad Steven Schoenfeld, centered around this move to the - 8:30am-5:30pm with extended hours available 3270, ilmulino.com] “Can You Buy Me the Wind?”, a chil- suburbs. It was extremely difficult to - Beautiful outdoor facilities Daniel [60 E. 65th St. between Park dren’s book for this age of instant figure out where to look and, more and Madison avenues in Midtown, (212) gratification. Inspired by actual importantly, get truly objective ad- - Ample air-conditioned indoor space 288–0033, danielnyc.com] events between his daughter and vice on which suburbs to look in. She - Sports & Recreation • Outdoor Adventure Gramercy Tavern [42 E. 20th St. be- her grandparents, “Can You Buy Me had no idea where to start, and knew tween Park Avenue S and Broadway the Wind?” illustrates the tug-of-war that the wrong decision of where to - Daily Red Cross Swim Instruction in the Flatiron District, (212) 477–0777, between teaching values and making move would be a costly one both - Arts programming with KIDS CREATIVE gramercytavern.com] a child happy. When Sammy’s grand- emotionally and financially. - Hot Lunch & Transportation available The Upsider [1004 Second Ave. at parents come to sit, they decide that Alison Bernstein launched the E. 53rd Street in Midtown East, (646) the 4-year-old should earn the toy Suburban Jungle Realty Group to - Low Ratios with Mature Staff 726–4760, theupsidernyc.com] she wants by doing simple chores, help young families free of charge. It - Flexible enrollment for 2-8 weeks Then, kick off Valentine’s Day and Sammy is eager to comply. is the first of its kind — a real estate weekend and the start of the city’s But when there is no wind to fly the strategic relocation firm dedicated Come meet us at our next info session! public school’s February break by kite, Sammy asks grandma to buy her exclusively to helping young families attending The DivaMoms Sweetest the wind — a rational question for a leave New York City for the suburbs! February 21 • 11am Valentine Party at Creative Dreams child who up until then has received Each family works with their per- Party for singing, dancing, and deco- everything she ever asked for. After sonal strategist as well as our reloca- St. Francis College • 180 Remsen St. rating chocolates with your sweet learning about the value of hard work, tion team to find the right town, and little valentines. Sammy hears that not everything can then of course the right home! Their The DivaMoms Sweetest Valentine be earned or bought. “Can You Buy award-winning “town first” approach oasischildren.com Party at Creative Dreams Party (25 Wa- Me the Wind?” addresses both issues to real estate helps to make certain terside Plaza at E. 26th Street in Rose in a fun, light-hearted way. Sammy ab- that families are looking in the right Hill, [email protected]) on Feb. 13 sorbs a great lesson about working to places, and more importantly asking 800.317.1392 from 5 to 7 pm. earn the kite that she wants, but more the right questions. Valentines sure have come a long important, she learns that it takes All of their services are free. The way from the generic boxed sets we more than money to earn the things firm has now helped hundreds of bought in the drugstore back when in life that really matter. Illustrated families, and is now expanding to Chi- we were kids (I know, I’m dating my- by Chuck Gonzales. It is available at cago, San Francisco, LA and Miami. self). One of my favorite designers, bookstores and online through www. www.suburbanjunglerealty.com Sophie & Lilli, is offering customized canyoubuymethewind.com and www. Wishing everyone a sweet Valen- Valentine’s cards where you get to amazon.com. tine’s Day filled with lots of hugs and pick out a girl with a likeness to you. . . . kisses! They’re available, in two styles — Many young families are always Lyss Stern is the founder of DivaLyss- fill in your own info or custom with asking me “How do we want to raise cious Moms (www.divamoms.com).

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 17 Parenting

want their life story to matter! When I was starting my career I had a great opportunity to sit down Generations with a senior human resources manager at a large company and not knowing exactly what to ask him, I decided to ask him to share about his career journey. He had allocated 20 & motivation minutes for our meeting, but once he started sharing about his career and life story, his lessons learned and the Use values to engage all ages advice he would recommend to the next generation, more than an hour Dear Dear Dr. Karyn, ily upbringing, gender, and personal- had passed. He felt valued and I was Thank you for sharing your in- ity. No wonder relationships are so grateful to hear his incredible insight! Dr. Karyn sight about the five generations last tricky — we often approach our re- Dr. Karyn GorDon month! My husband and I were dis- lationships assuming that the other Boomers (51–69): cussing some of the tips over dinner person thinks and values what we appreciation and it was great to talk about infor- do (and he doesn’t)! So the secret to Boomers work hard! They work mation that applied both to myself healthier relationships, at home and hard at the office and with their at home with the kids — and he with at work, is to understand what each families! In fact, many experts say this employees at the office! person and generation values! that it was this generation that cre- Here are five tips you can use to ated the 70-hour workweek (it didn’t he topic of understanding gen- engage all generations: exist before)! If you want to engage a erations is truly fascinating! boomer, you need to appreciate and T As part of the three-part se- traditionalists (70–93): recognize their hard work! I often tell ries on this topic, below are my five respect my teen clients that if they want to tips on how to engage and motivate If you want to engage a traditional- see the best version of their parents, all generations. Next month, I’ll focus ist, you need to respect him! Every get in the regular habit of genuinely on communication and generations. generation values respect, but each saying “thank you.” We are all different! Once we can defines it slightly different. To most Last year when I was working with truly realize this we won’t be so traditionalists respect means you a 17-year-old boy and his mom at our disappointed when we discover that arrive early (they will often interpret counseling center, I told the son pri- our boss, daughter, or spouse is not lateness as disrespectful) and seek vately, “I don’t care if you have a dif- like us! What we value is shaped by their guidance and wisdom. They ferent opinion than your mom, trust many variables including our life ex- have lived longer and experienced me — start telling her ‘thank you’ perience, generational history, fam- more than the rest of us, and they for the hundreds of things she does for you and you will see her be more reasonable towards you.” Fortunately I had a great connection with this teen and he listened. Within two weeks there was a re- markable difference in their relationship simply because he was tapping into what she valued and in return he was able to receive more flexibil- ity, which he valued. Win-win!

gen-X’ers (35–50): independence Gen-X was the generation of the latchkey era. Many of our parents (yes, I’m Gen-X) were busy working (nearly three-quarters of both parents were working in the ’80s), so we grew up faster than other generations. We didn’t have parents check- ing on our homework or teachers calling to make sure assignments were done on time — that was our responsibility and we carry that same belief now as parents and employers. If you want to engage a Gen-X parent or manager you need to be more independent. This does not

18 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 mean you pretend like you know Gen-Z’ers (5–19): everything, but rather that you Relevance ask when you have questions and How relevant are you as a parent (most importantly!), ask for realis- or boss? Are you talking about what tic timelines within which you will you experienced growing up (ex, “I get feedback. had to walk 10 miles in five feet of Several years ago I was doing snow to get to school”) just for the training with an organization on the sake of it — or do you have a point? generational differences. As part of After listening to well over 10,000 this training they wanted me to do hours of Gen-Y and -Z in our coach- an exit interview with a Gen-Y’er ing office, it has dawned on me that who had abruptly quit. In my con- many of them had a secret question versation with him he said, “Karyn, in their minds that needed answer- I started my job in September and ing, which is: “What’s the point?” didn’t get any feedback until Decem- “What’s the point of trying hard ber. Honestly, I felt abandoned!” in grade 10, it doesn’t count — I’ll PeDiAtric I discovered that his manager start trying in grade 12?” “What’s was a Gen-X’er who just assumed the point of this math stuff — I’m he was capable of doing his job, not going to use it anywhere in my and left him to it (aka indepen- life?” “What’s the point of talking dently). Gen-X managers tend to to my dad — he is never going to delegate tasks to others and expect change?” “What’s the point of mak- that they will figure it out and get it ing my bed — I’m going to get it all DentiStry done (that is how we were raised), messy again by tonight?” but Gen-Y employees are used to I’ve learned through practicing getting a lot of support, feedback, for nearly 20 years now that a key coaching, and collaboration (that’s component to engaging Generations how they were raised). Y and Z is that the information that If you want to engage and moti- I want to share has to be relevant, Lois A. Jackson, D.D.S. vate a Gen-X parent or employer, make sense, and connect to their remember that they value inde- lives in a way that is going to make pendence! them better, easier, or more meaningful. Outstanding parents, coun- & Associates Gen-Y’ers (20–34): selors, teachers, and bosses know Speed how to connect regular information Gen-Y’ers love speed and for in way that excites their audience things to happen quickly! Not only by making it relevant and current. do they like speed in technology — One of my teen clients was taking but also in how things are taught, a grade 12 math course to get ahead. when promotions are going to hap- Before the course even started she pen, and how they are being commu- was frustrated that she had signed Two LocaTions: nicated to. This generation has often up for this while all of her friends been criticized for not being patient were traveling, vacationing and en- or for wanting instant gratification, joying their summer. Yet, after her and yet as I shared last month, part first day, she had a session sched- of this is that they were raised dur- uled with me, and she came in ener- 16 court street, suite 2211 ing the era of the internet and our gized, engaged, and extremely posi- “buy now, pay later culture.” tive (I thought perhaps she had can- Brooklyn, new York 11241 If you want to engage Gen-Y’ers, celed the course). Surprisingly, she look at your speed. They are en- said, “Karyn, I love this class! Did gaged by moving quickly and will you know that math is everywhere? 718-855-8833 disengage when things are too Every time I go shopping, buy a slow. Intuitively I knew this, but it concert ticket, use my cellphone or was recently reinforced for me dur- computer — I’m using math.” My cli- ing one of my all-day leadership ent had an outstanding teacher that events, “Dare To Dream: Building knew how to make grade 12 math 505 LaGuardia Place Emotional Intelligence.” One of the relevant to my client’s life, which as participants, an 18-year-old, during a result engaged and motivated her! new York, new York 10012 the break said to me, “Karyn I love Dr. Karyn Gordon is one of North your style.” When I got curious to America’s leading relationship and what he was referencing (silly me, I parenting experts. She is a regular 212-995-8888 thought he was going to say it was contributor to “Good Morning Amer- the practical content, inspirational ica,” founder of dk Leadership, best- videos or ultra-funky office space), selling author of “Dr. Karyn’s Guide he said, “It’s because you talk fast. To The Teen Years” (Harper Collins), I love teachers who talk fast — they and motivational speaker to a quarter www.drloisjackson.com keep me engaged. It means I can’t of a million people. Visit her at www. allow my mind to wander and I dkleadership.org and on Twitter: @ need to stay on task.” DrKarynGordon.

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 19

Garden Dental Arts 511 Clinton Ave, Ground Floor Meet 718-230-3183 or www.gardenartsdental.com The Practice At Garden Dental Arts, our goal is to help patients reach the highest level of oral health possible so they may enjoy the benefi ts of a healthy, functional, and attractive smile. Dr. Samantha Ifi ll, Dr. Roger Castro, and our team believe that good oral health contributes signifi cantly to total well-being. Brooklyn is a vibrant community and one in which our practice enjoys being active, both professionally and personally. GDA does community outreach to local schools and other organizations, to educate Tracey H. Joseph, D.D.S. individuals about the importance of good oral health. 1655 Flatbush Avenue, Suite A 104 Our general and restorative dental treatments include: 718-377-1319 or www.brooklynfamilydds.com Periodontal treatments; Cosmetic dentistry with Philips A Dental offi ce providing quality care for Zoom! teeth whitening and Invisalign® clear aligners; Dental the entire family. Modern techniques and implants and implant-supported dentures; Sleep apnea and state of the art dental equipment are used snoring prevention; and Comprehensive pediatric dentistry. for regular and emergency treatment. A Garden Dental Arts takes full advantage of the newest commitment to provide the most effective advances in technology, including digital X-rays, intraoral service of preventive and cosmetic options cameras, and the E4D Dentist™ crown fabricator, to provide help patients achieve a cleaner, healthier a comprehensive and accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. and more attractive smile. We look forward to meeting you and helping your achieve a lifetime of ideal oral health! Their comprehensive services include; cosmetic bonding, teeth whitening, children’s dentistry, crown and bridges, implant restorations, root canal therapy and dentures. In addition, a percentage of the practice is devoted to providing oral health care to children. Tracey H. Joseph, D.D.S. works in conjunction with parents to become partners in infl uencing their child’s dental experience and perception of oral health. Reneida Reyes D.D.S., M.P.H. 1 Hanson Place, Suite # 706 718-230-0380 or www.allaccessdental.net

Dr. Reneida E. Reyes has been actively engaged in the practice of Pediatric Dentistry at One Hanson Place (the former Williamsburg Lois A. Jackson, DDS, PC & Associates Savings Bank building) for about 30 years. 16 Court Street, Suite 2211 Although the building has been converted to 718-855-8833 or www.drloisjackson.com luxury residential condominiums, Dr. Reyes Welcome to our practice, conveniently may still be found in the building in suite 706. located in Manhattan and Brooklyn. For Dr. Reyes received her pediatric dental P E D I A T R I C training at The Children’s Hospital of Boston and Harvard Y Dr. Lois Jackson, as well as our other D E N T I S T R University School of Dental Medicine. She also holds a master’s practitioners, the top priority is to in Public Health Degree from Harvard School of Public Health in Lois A. Jackson, D.D.S. provide patients with comprehensive & Associates the area of Maternal and Child Health Studies. Two Locations pediatric dental care in a pleasant and 16 Court Street, Suite 2211 • 718-855-8833 Professionally Dr. Reyes has been actively engaged in Brooklyn, New York 11241 compassionate environment. We not 505 LaGuardia Place • 212-995-8888 organized dentistry with a strong focus on children’s oral New York, New York 10012 only provide dental care for our patients, www.drloisjackson.com health, having served as chair of the Oral Health Committee of but we truly care for our patients. We Second District Dental Society (Brooklyn and Staten Island) and believe in personal attention and individualized treatment. State Chair of National Children’s Dental Health Month for the We strive to give your child the care and dental health care New York State Dental Association establishing the Sugarless information that will prevent tooth decay and keep your child’s Wednesday Program, which received National recognition from smile beautiful for life! the American Dental Association (ADA) as a Recipient of the Our Brooklyn offi ce is located at 16 Court Street, Suite 2211, Golden Apple Award in 2007. in Brooklyn Heights near Borough Hall. Our Manhattan offi ce is Dr. Reyes had been Section Chief of Pediatric Dentistry at located at 505 LaGuardia Place, Suite L4, in Greenwich Village New York Methodist Hospital, Division of Dental Medicine since near Washington Square Park. We have convenient weekday 1997. Dr. Reyes received the New York State Dental Foundation and Saturday hours in both offi ces with evening appointments award of excellence in community service on Oct. 12, 2009. available.

20 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 Special Advertising Section Kaufman Children’s Dental Hospital Fidelis Dr. Elan Kaufman 1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547) 2120 Ocean Avenue or www.fi deliscare.org 718-645-1588 Fidelis Care offers full dental At Children’s Dental Hospital, rely on coverage for preventive and us for your child’s total dental needs. We routine care. You will receive quality service from some of the top dental providers in the treat infants, children, and adolescents, area. No referrals for network providers. Fidelis Care members and patients with special health needs. have a lot to smile about. Our doctors are board certifi ed in pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, and anesthesia. Our focus is prevention, early detection, and treatment of dental diseases, in a comfortable, painless, relaxing environment. We offer all types of sedation for children needing extra comfort. Feeling anxious about dental care should never prevent your child from having a beautiful, healthy smile. We are open on weekends and holidays, and accept insurance! Park Slope Kids Dental Care Dr. Elan Kaufman is a board certifi ed diplomate in pediatric 150 4th Avenue (between Butler St. & Douglas St) dentistry. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric 718-488-0200 or www.parkslopekidsdental.com Dentistry, and associate member of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Kaufman earned his Doctorate of Dental Park Slope Kids Dental Care is a brand Medicine (DMD) in Boston, at Tufts University School of Dental new state-of-the art offi ce, completely Medicine, with high honors. decorated and geared towards children. Dr. Kaufman, a faculty member at Columbia University Our primary goal is to make every College of Dental Medicine, also served as Chief of Pediatric child’s trip to the dentist a positive Dental Medicine & Surgery at St. Luke’s, Roosevelt, and and fun experience. Dr. T. Francis and Coney Island Hospitals for over fi fteen years. He also held the staff makes sure that both parents many leadership positions, including serving as Chairman of and children are aware and educated the Oral Health Committee NY Chapter II of the American about the special dental health needs Academy of Pediatrics. while providing a warm, caring and professional service. The objective is to put your children’s mind at ease by having: • a fun loving staff that can be comforting to them • soft music and television to entertain them while getting their treatment • rewards for a job well done Dentistry at the Heights Our pediatric dental offi ce is colorful, fun, and child-friendly. 142 Joralemon St, Ste 12C Dental phobias are often rooted in childhood, so it is essential 347-492-1018 or www.heightsdentistry.com that the child feel comfortable, safe, and trusting of the dentist from the outset. We have a unique vocabulary designed to From the moment you enter Dentistry at ward off fear of seeing the dentist. Cavities are ‘sugar bugs’ the Heights in beautiful Brooklyn Heights, and injections are ‘sleepy juice’. The reason grown adults come you’ll feel welcome. Our dental team is to fear trips to the dentist is because someone terrifi ed them genuine, outgoing and able to make your along the way, making dental visits seem like punishment or visit a comfortable, relaxing one. even torture. We’re here to change all that. Our staff at Dentistry at the Heights We are not just any kids’ dental offi ce. We are changing the pride themselves on delivering the most advanced dentistry way people view dentistry for kids! Just step into our amazing available, utilizing some of the most incredible technology to state of the art offi ce and you’ll see why we are unlike any give you life-changing results in a timely, effi cient manner. It dental offi ce you’ve ever visited. From the moment you enter is our goal to give you a smile that matches your lifestyle and you will see kid-fun technology, TVs, and a relaxed reception success, as well as the image you want to convey to the world. area for parents. It’s a place that evokes smiles of everyone. When it comes to your dental health and the dental needs When you visit our offi ce, your child’s smile is our top priority. of your family, you deserve a team that strives for perfection. Our entire team is dedicated to providing your children the From regular checkups and hygienic cleanings, to complete personalized, gentle and comprehensive care that they deserve. functional restorations with dental implants, every one of your unique dental needs and goals is attainable at Dentistry at the Heights. We provide dental treatment to adults and children of all ages. To arrange an initial evaluation with these Brooklyn Heights dentists, call 347-492-1018, or request an appointment via email today!

Special Advertising Section February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 21 Pediatric dentists Why growing teeth need a specialist

By Dr. Tanesha Francis teeth will stay put until about age plete up to three additional years 6, when they begin to fall out and of specialty training in the unique s someone who specializes be replaced by permanent, adult needs of children’s teeth. in the treatment and care of teeth. Although children lose their Some of the topics we study A little people’s teeth, parents first set of teeth, poor oral care in that are unique to working with often ask me how important it is to those early years can lead to issues children include behavior manage- take children to a pediatric dentist. and disease that lasts throughout ment, pediatric pharmacology, in- In fact, many don’t realize that this is life. terceptive orthodontics, speech, an option in the first place. A pediatric dentist specializes minor oral surgery, sedation, trau- Yes, there are options! There are in instructing families on how to matic injuries, dental care for chil- dentists, like me, who specialize in care for teeth before there are even dren with developmental disabili- the unique needs of infants, chil- teeth! ties, and more. dren, and young teens’ teeth. Alter- Parents often think of trouble- Since the dental journey includes natively, there are family dentists some sicknesses such as asthma growing a first set, losing them, and who are qualified to care for patients and allergies; however, dental then growing an adult set, there’s of all ages. problems such as early childhood a lot to keep up with during each Naturally, I believe that pediatric caries (an infectious disease also stage. dentists are the way to go when par- known as baby bottle tooth decay We specialize in helping families ents have the option, and here are or bottle rot) are five times as com- make it a healthy journey from the my reasons: mon. start. We also offer key advice on maintenance through those critical Teeth development What sets pediatric candy-and-sweets-eating years. in children dentists apart Think 6 plus 6! Generally speak- Pediatric dentists have a lot to Specialized ing, a baby’s first teeth will begin to learn! Unlike general dentists, pedi- treatment options break through at 6 months; those atric dentists are required to com- Parents know that taking care of children — especially health exams like regular dentist visits — can be stressful at times. Pedi- atric dentists are great at knowing how to make visits as painless and pleasant as possible. Our offices are full of color, activities, and warmth that can make kids’ experiences fun and educational, too. Dentists often recommend dental appliances and corrective treatments during the childhood and adolescent years. We also have the most up-to- date knowledge about treatment options and advancements in the field for children. And in the end, children and teens are all about the “cool factor” with a pediatric dentist, our finger is on the pulse of colorful and engaging tools and appliances that will keep them inter- ested in their own dental health. We all want the best for children. When it comes to keeping their mouths, teeth, and gums healthy for the long haul, a pediatric dentist just makes sense! Dr. Francis can be found at Park Slope Kids Dental Care [150 Fourth Ave. between Douglas and Butler streets in Park Slope, (718) 488–0200]. 22 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 Pediatric dentists Why growing teeth need a specialist

By Dr. Tanesha Francis teeth will stay put until about age plete up to three additional years 6, when they begin to fall out and of specialty training in the unique s someone who specializes be replaced by permanent, adult needs of children’s teeth. in the treatment and care of teeth. Although children lose their Some of the topics we study A little people’s teeth, parents first set of teeth, poor oral care in that are unique to working with often ask me how important it is to those early years can lead to issues children include behavior manage- take children to a pediatric dentist. and disease that lasts throughout ment, pediatric pharmacology, in- In fact, many don’t realize that this is life. terceptive orthodontics, speech, an option in the first place. A pediatric dentist specializes minor oral surgery, sedation, trau- Yes, there are options! There are in instructing families on how to matic injuries, dental care for chil- dentists, like me, who specialize in care for teeth before there are even dren with developmental disabili- the unique needs of infants, chil- teeth! ties, and more. dren, and young teens’ teeth. Alter- Parents often think of trouble- Since the dental journey includes natively, there are family dentists some sicknesses such as asthma growing a first set, losing them, and who are qualified to care for patients and allergies; however, dental then growing an adult set, there’s of all ages. problems such as early childhood a lot to keep up with during each Naturally, I believe that pediatric caries (an infectious disease also stage. dentists are the way to go when par- known as baby bottle tooth decay We specialize in helping families ents have the option, and here are or bottle rot) are five times as com- make it a healthy journey from the my reasons: mon. start. We also offer key advice on maintenance through those critical Teeth development What sets pediatric candy-and-sweets-eating years. in children dentists apart Think 6 plus 6! Generally speak- Pediatric dentists have a lot to Specialized ing, a baby’s first teeth will begin to learn! Unlike general dentists, pedi- treatment options break through at 6 months; those atric dentists are required to com- Parents know that taking care February is National Children’s Dental Health Month of children — especially health exams like regular dentist visits — can be stressful at times. Pedi- atric dentists are great at knowing how to make visits as painless and pleasant as possible. Our offices are full of color, activities, and warmth that can make kids’ experiences fun and educational, too. Fidelis Care offers full coverage Dentists often recommend dental appliances and corrective treatments during the childhood and adolescent years. for preventive and routine We also have the most up-to- date knowledge about treatment options and advancements in the dental care for kids. field for children. And in the end, children and teens are all about the “cool factor” with a pediatric Quality service. No referrals for network providers. dentist, our finger is on the pulse of colorful and engaging tools and ap- And with some of the top dental providers in the area, pliances that will keep them inter- ested in their own dental health. Fidelis Care’s youngest members have a lot to smile about. We all want the best for children. When it comes to keeping their To learn more about applying for health insurance including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY State of mouths, teeth, and gums healthy Health, the Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777. for the long haul, a pediatric dentist just makes sense! Dr. Francis can be found at Park 1-888-FIDELIS | fideliscare.org Slope Kids Dental Care [150 Fourth Ave. (1-888-343-3547) • between Douglas and Butler streets in Park Slope, (718) 488–0200]. February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 23 Dental health for kids February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

By Jamie LoBer

he Department of Health for New York State says that it T is important for children to develop good oral health habits at an early age because practicing healthy habits can prevent or reduce tooth decay in infants and children. “Parents often do not think of the value of what they are doing for their kid’s oral health at home until an issue arises,” said Dr. Jonathan Shenkin, dentist and spokes- man for the American Dental Association. Teeth tend to appear between 6 to 8 months-old and by age 3, all 20 primary teeth should be in the mouth. Start- ing around age 6, baby teeth are replaced by permanent teeth, but it’s important to remember that both sets of teeth matter. “When teeth first come they are exposed to saliva and the minerals that exist in the saliva and fluoride that enables minerals to be deposited completely into the tooth,” said Shenkin. You have to give the teeth time to become strong. Diet plays a big role, and soda can be one of the worst culprits. “If you are continually con- suming sugars throughout the day you are constantly reducing the acid level in your mouth

24 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 manual dexterity to appropriately “It is important that remove plaque,” said Shenkin. Sometimes the right tooth- parents monitor brush can make a big difference. “Electric toothbrushes can in- toothbrushing until spire children to brush their teeth KAUFMAN CHILDREN’S kids tie their own and they do a better job if they are excited about the process,” DENTAL HOSPITAL shoelaces because said Shenkin. You’ll also need a trustworthy they do not have dentist who can help with the cleaning. • Board Certified Pediatric Dentists, Orthodontists, and the manual dexterity “We typically recommend at age 1 or within 6 months of the erup- Anesthesiologists to appropriately tion of the first tooth to have the • Affordable, safe, and gentle dental care for infants, remove plaque,” first visit to find out what kind of children, and adolescents by specialists risk factors exist,” said Shenkin. “We recommend seeing the dentist • Laughing gas and general anesthesia available making teeth more susceptible based on your risk level so some • Convenient hours and locations to decay processes, so it is about kids go once a year and some need the frequency and consumption,” to go 4 times a year.” said Shenkin. The dentist may have some indi- “Poor oral hygiene combined vidualized recommendations that with poor nutrition can cause consider your child’s needs. tooth decay in kids that could be “Parents do not realize the im- easily avoided.” portance of dental sealants at the Set an example of how children age of 6,” said Shenkin. Evidence 2120 Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn should take care of their teeth by shows they work wonders. “The 718 645-1588 taking care of your own. most decayed tooth in the mouth “If you do not have appropri- for all of us is the adult first molar www.kcdh.org ate behaviors that improve oral on the biting surface and the most 103 St. Mark's Place, Manhattan health you put your kid at great effective way of reducing risk for Hablamos risk for developing disease,” said tooth decay in young kids is to put 212 432-5234 Español! Shenkin. a dental sealant or a little plastic 1/15BKLYNPED1/4 To do so you’ll need to have the coating on it to dramatically reduce right tools. the incidence of tooth decay,” said “A big change we made in the Shenkin. It is advised to do that on last year and a half is recom- all permanent molars for kids. mending fluoride toothpaste for If your child wants sugar, it is HAPPINESS children as soon as the first tooth best with a meal. erupts in the mouth,” said Shen- “Do not have sugars in between Is A Healthy Mouth kin. “We used to say age 2 was the meals because having it with Help Your Child Start The School Year first time you would provide fluo- meals would expand the time pe- With A Healthy Smile. ride toothpaste, but we changed riod that there are higher levels of Healthy Smile... Healthy Children it based on the amount you use acidity in the mouth,” said Shen- and the age of the child.” kin. “Mistakes parents make are And you should know your putting kids to bed at night with measurements. a bottle with fermentable sugars, “We recommend at the erup- juices, or milk because it can re- tion of the first tooth to start sult in decay.” using a piece of toothpaste the February is National Children’s size of a piece of rice to help par- Dental Health month, making it ents visualize the amount, which the perfect time to talk with your is extremely small to minimize child about why taking care of his ingestion. And then at age 3 we teeth matters. And it may sound recommend a pea-size amount,” basic, but folks easily overlook Dentistry For Children said Shenkin. the importance of dental health. Your Child’s Teeth Are Too Precious To Waste Your child should be brushing “The most important thing we twice a day. have recognized is how kids can A Proper Diet, Good Oral Hygiene “Morning and night is impera- come to the dentist earlier to re- And A Bi-Annual Check-Up From Age 1 tive and it is not just about putting duce disease levels, educate par- CanSave Teeth And Money the toothbrush in the mouth, it is ents, and redirect behaviors in about removing the plaque on the the household,” said Shenkin. Call Reneida E. Reyes, D.D.S., M.P.H. Today teeth and the sugars that cause Jamie Lober, author of “Pink Power” at her ofﬁ ce for your son or daughter’s appointments the decay,” said Shenkin. “It is im- (www.getpinkpower.com), is dedicated portant that parents monitor tooth- to providing information on women’s One Hanson Place - Suite 706 brushing until kids tie their own and pediatric health topics. She can be Brooklyn, NY 11243 shoelaces, which is at 6 to 7 years of reached at [email protected]. age, because they do not have the © 2015 Jamie Lober (718) 230-0380 Fax (718) 230-0358

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 25 ¨ We ¦¦¯¢ª¯ offer £¢©z¨ sedation ¥¤ª«¨ and laughing gas

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February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 27 Parenting

love her.” I remind her. She proceeds to yank Julia off my lap so she can climb onto her Sisterly love seat. “No, she’s not my best friend,” like to think I’m doing a good she’s not supposed to do, Olivia she’ll respond, and I remind her job of fostering a unique bond never misses the opportunity to again that they are the best kind I between my daughters. Actu- complain about her little sister, of friends. ally, I’m very adamant that they not like big sisters do. I understand I have a much younger, half-sis- only love each other, but that they how frustrating it can be to have ter who I’m crazy about. She’s an also be best friends. to share your toys, space, and par- awesome auntie who’s close to the My oldest, Olivia, will constantly ents with someone else, but what girls, and we have a close bond with complain about her little sister I’m constantly reminding her when- each other as well. We’re alike in a mommy 101 Julia. Whether she’s playing with ever she complains about Julia is lot of ways, except she’s extremely angelica sereda one of her toys, sitting too close that that’s her sister: “She’s your intelligent. I get by, but she’s the to her (or me), or doing something sister, your best friend. You have to genius in the family and everyone knows it. She very much looked up to me growing up and I hope that she still does. The difference is, and it’s a very big one, we didn’t grow up living together. She lived with my dad and I always lived with my mom when I was younger. We’re also 16 years apart. That’s a huge difference. If I’m being honest, we probably don’t have much in common and we’ve always been at different stages in our lives. But like any relationship worth having, we’ve made a big effort to remain close and to be a part of each other’s lives. I want my daughters to see how great having a sister can be. Luckily, my daughters won’t have some of the challenges that my little sister and I have had. They will, undoubtedly, be spending a lot of time together. They will get tired of all the time they have to spend together, they will fight, and I will keep reminding them to love each other. I look at my daughters and see how lucky they are to have each other. They’re only two and a half years apart and all I can see is the fun ahead of them: playing together, sharing stories and secrets, being by each other’s side. I feel like laughing just thinking of the stories they’ll keep from me and how they’ll defend each other when they’re in trouble, but isn’t that what siblings are for? A few days ago while my mom was watching the girls she mentioned that Olivia was bragging about her sister. Julia’s just learning to pick herself up and takes a few steps at a time. Not quite walking, but getting there. Olivia said, “You got it, Julia!” and looked over at my mother and said, “I love my sister, she’s my best friend.”

28 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 BRINGING WORLD-CLASS Leif Ericson Day School PERFORMANCES HOME SUCCESS WITHOUT STRESS Small Class Size Graduates to finest high Nursery-Grade 8 schools Computer Technology Lab Spiritual Formation Professional, Caring Staff Academic Excellence NYC DOE Services Community Chapel & HOT FEET RAPUNZEL! RAPUNZEL! Assemblies From The Paper A Very Hairy Fairy Tale Bag Players Dynamic Music Program From Wally Jones & Casa Saturday, February 28 Manana Theatre NYS Learning Standards at 2:00 p.m. | $12 Book, Music, and Lyrics by “Pure pleasure for everybody!” Janet Yates Vogt & Mark Friedman – The New York Times Saturday, April 18 OpEn Call today to learn more about at 2:00 p.m. | $12 HOUSE Leif Ericson Day School’s 49 year “A colorful and zany musical that history of quality education in will delight the kids and charm Wednesday, the parents!” – Greenville Online January 21st a safe, caring environment MEET THE CAST AFTER THE SHOWS! 7-8:30 pm (718) 748-9023 | 1037—72nd Street (718) 368-5596 www.OnStageAtKingsborough.org Brooklyn NY 11228 • http://ledsny.org

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WINDMILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL Accredited Preschool, Elementary, JHS & Academic Summer Camp A PEACEFUL PLACE TO LEARN SINCE 1941 Proudly Celebrating 73 Years of Quality Education Windmill’s environment encourages children to Toddler & Nursery Programs • Learn Naturally At Their Own Pace Ages 6 months–5 years • Find And Develop Their Own Interests, And Open DAily ACTiviTies: • Get The Individual Attention Needed To Thrive HOuses Tue., Feb. 10 Literacy Development • Math • Science CURRICULUM ADVANTAGES Wed., March 4 Art • Cultural Studies • Social Skills • Music Thurs., April 16 Montessori Method, French, Computer Skills, Wed., May 13 1.2, Full & Extended Day Available Physical Education, Yoga, Music, Art 9–10:30 am Free Breakfast, Snack & Dinner PLUS MORE Participant in Voucher Program Small Class Size, Dedicated Staff, Outdoor Recreation, Summer Camp A/C Classrooms, Curriculum-based Trips, Open 7:30 am–6 pm After School Program (3:40-5:45pm) Happy Learners and Happy Campers 718-375-7973 H 718-375-4277 e-mail: [email protected] website: www.windmontsch.org Windmill is non-sectarian. Licensed by The New York City Department of Health Affiliated with The American Montessori Society 2020 Avenue X • (718) 332-2296 1317 Avenue T @ East 14th Street • Brooklyn, NY 11229

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 29 Learning to love your mother-in-law ...or daughter-in-law!

By Jan Pierce no wrong in their precious sons, ful relationships and what trouble How to make even when they’re acting like rats. spots reared their ugly heads over ecently, I sent a list of six ques- How to combat the stereotype? and over? the most of a tions to my women friends How to do better? Here are the six questions I asked. R asking about their relation- One place to begin in under- You might want to jot down some ship with their mother-in-law or their standing this uncertain relationship answers of your own. relationship daughter-in-law. The answers came is to think of our own nuclear fami- • I f you have a good relationship back almost immediately, telling me lies. Ideally, relationships between with your mother-in-law or daughter- with a bad this is a hot topic. parents and children are based in-law, name three reasons why. I remember the day my son an- on a foundation of unconditional • I f there are problems in the re- nounced his engagement. I was love. We love our parents and they lationship, give the general areas reputation thrilled — just filled with happiness love us. We love our children and of tension, e.g. parenting, holidays, for him and his intended bride. But they love us. But even in this most communication, etc. soon after came the realization natural of relationships, there are • N a m e three areas that might be that I’d be a mother-in-law. I wasn’t tensions. Add to that a merging of “touchy” in the relationship. quite as thrilled. two different family backgrounds • When you experience tension Why? Well, to be honest, moth- and traditions, and the room for or misunderstandings, what helps? ers-in-law have a bad reputation. misunderstanding and animosity is Conversation, heart-to-hearts, let- They are the butt of jokes about multiplied many times. ting it go? Other? their heavy hand, their unwanted So what were the findings? What • Ta l k about the role of advice in advice, and their tendency to see themes ran through all the success- your relationship. Do you appreciate it? Feel confident in giving it? Hate it? Tips for daughters-in-law Tips for mothers-in-law • W h a t would be the ideal in-law • A l l ow your mother-in-law to continue to play a • Accept the fact that your son has chosen an- relationship in your opinion? role in her son’s life. She’s earned it. other woman to love and respect. • K n ow that strong relationships take time to build. • Display love and affection honestly. Know The Findings In the meantime, be willing to let things go for it may take some time for the relationship Not surprisingly, the most suc- the sake of a future relationship. to mature. cessful relationships were built on • D o n’ t assume your mother-in-law will • Overlook flaws or failings in your mutual trust and understanding. be just like your own mother (or any other daughter-in-law. Try to remember what Many younger women spoke of un- person you know). Top it was like to be a new wife. certainty and lack of confidence • A s much as possible, keep conversa- • S p e a k positive things to her and in their role as daughters-in-law tion positive, free of gossip, and respectful. Tips about her. in their early years of marriage. • A g r e e to disagree on touchy topics. • Understand she is young and may As they were learning to be a wife, • Appreciate efforts to help even if you have change some of her opinions and habits. they also had to take on the re- to set boundaries. • Refrain from giving unsolicited advice, sponsibility of a relationship with • Learn to listen to advice without necessarily tak- even if you’re “right.” a woman they barely knew. Those ing it. • B e supportive and willing to help if needed. who developed a positive rela- • B e patient. You may one day become a mother- • B e patient. You were once a young, inexperi- tionship, even a friendship, went in-law. enced woman. through a time of testing, learning to trust, and deciding to “let it

30 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 go” when there was the possibility of misunderstanding words or circumstances. One of the loveliest answers I got was from a woman in her 50s who spoke of accepting her mother-in- law just as she is — a quirky, sometimes inappropriate, and seemingly unloving woman. She has learned to accept strange, random re-gifts rather than store-bought ones, she has learned to understand the woman will not play the role of a loving grandmother to her children, but still she determined to love her as she is and not as she wishes she would be. Another young woman spoke of feeling offended and even attacked by her mother-in-law when she received unwanted advice and criticism about things such as time management, finances, and discipline of her children. The solution to this relationship in jeopardy came when the husband stepped up and stood with his wife. Once the wife felt affirmed, she was free to see words of advice in a better light, not as condemnation, but as alternate choices and ones she was free to follow or ignore. The key was not feeling ganged up on by a mother-and-son combo. Almost universal was the concept of mutual respect. Respect doesn’t mean taking advice or believing the same ways. It doesn’t mean managing another’s behavior or changing their personality. What it does mean is letting the other person be themselves, warts and all. I’d have to add that kindness and a sense of humor go a long way in any new or awkward relationship. Giving the benefit of the doubt relieves the tension of per- ceived competitive or jealous am- bitions, the tendency to judge or be judged, and the possibility of offending without meaning to. Many pitfalls are avoided if both women see the other through eyes of love and acceptance, ascribing positive motives to their sometimes less- than-admirable behaviors. In general, the answers to the six-question survey were heartfelt — the topic mattered to the women who answered. Very few reported a perfectly smooth road to a healthy relationship, but rather they learned over time to build a friendship based on acceptance, kindness, and love. Jan Pierce is a retired teacher and freelance writer specializing in education, parenting, and family-life. Find her at www.janpierce.net.

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 31 Strangely magical, or magically strange?

KIDS FIRST! FIlm CRITIC While the story is inspired by nificent voice actors portraying the Kid movie Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer’s characters. This film has a talented Producer George Lucas has turned Night Dream,” George cast, including Alan Cum- critics review his charms onto the tale “Strange Lucas has adapted this ming, Kristen Chenoweth, Magic,” a new animated film that is a story in a manner that Evan Rachel Wood, and ‘Strange Magic’ madcap fairy tale musical inspired by is enjoyable for younger Maya Rudolph. I have a Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s audiences. That’s not huge respect for voice ac- Dream.” Popular songs from the past an easy task to do, es- tors because all the char- six decades help tell the tale of a pecially when taking on acter’s emotions comes colorful cast of goblins, elves, fairies, Shakespeare’s work. solely from their voice. In and imps, and their hilarious misad- The film’s music spans this film, every actor suc- ventures sparked by the battle over a several decades, from cessfully does that. powerful potion. nostalgic rock to pop, The animation and de- and includes various love sign are exquisite. The his is an original, visionary, songs. The song choices are perfect characters look exactly like some- animated musical, inspired for this film. Every song sets the thing Lucas would create. The for- T by a classic tale by William tone for each scene — whether it’s est is literally flourishing with life. Shakespeare. An assortment of fast-paced action or slower-paced We see beautiful fairies and impres- characters, from fairies to goblins romance. While the songs appear sive goblins with incredibly rich to elves, who live in two different spontaneously, they are where most details showing their scales, teeth, worlds, clash over a magical love of the comedy comes from, and the and wings. Plus, their movements potion. Their encounter teaches characters poke fun at them from are fluid and believable. You are them all that everyone deserves to time to time. successfully transported into their be loved. It also helps when there are mag- world.

32 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 I have to admit, this movie is different from anything I have ever seen before — but I’m Poly Prep not sure whether that’s a good or bad thing. Summer My favorite character is the Bog songs are by popular artists songs Swimming Lessons for children 2 and up King (voiced by Alan Cumming). and have been on the radio. For Camp Programs for children ages 4–16 Not only do I admire the mosquito example, Kelly Clarkson’s “Stron- 2015 look of his character, but also the ger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” is voice actor who plays him. Cum- featured, and that is something I ming is a wonderful performer liked. But, something I am not a whether he’s on stage or film. He is fan of is that the film is directed at Bus a capable singer and actor, which children, but has some very ma- Service he proves again in his portrayal of ture things in it. Available this character. This movie is unpredictable, My favorite scene is the duel which isn’t a good thing all the duet between the Bog King and time. “Strange Magic” takes a turn Marianne (Evan Rachel Wood). so unexpected that I had no idea This is where the animators re- how it even happened, to be hon- ally show off their skills. The fight est. I don’t even know how it got is swift and the witty comments to where it ended. It all went so between the two characters make fast that I didn’t get time to under- the scene even more entertaining. stand what was happening at the The message this film stresses is moment. Other times, it is kind that everyone deserves love. The of cool seeing what is happening love potion supposedly makes an next. But overall, I didn’t exactly admirer’s crush feel the same way like how things move so fast, and towards him. However, through a I never really got the concept of misunderstanding, the Bog King what was going on. doesn’t think anyone can love him, One thing that I love about even with a love potion. “Strange Magic” is that the char- I give this film 5 out of 5 stars acters are different. There are fair- and recommend it to 5- through ies, goblins, and imps. I really liked 18-year-olds. Adults will enjoy that mythical feel. this, too. Kids might be amazed This movie may look like it’s by the imaginative animation, and for kids, but trust me, it’s not. parents can enjoy the blast-from- There are things that I didn’t even the-past music. understand, so I doubt that kids Programs from June 15 – August 21, 2015: — Keefer B., age 14 younger than me will understand See his video review at: http:// what is happening. There are DAY CAMP youtu.be/aP2CRCoqt-I also some mature scenes in the ... movie that made me unsure if it is SPORTS CAMPS trange Magic” is an kid-friendly or not. For example, animated film about the husband cheats on his wife VISUAL ARTS CAMPS “S two worlds: one where on their wedding day. That hap- there is happiness, singing, and pened within the first 20 minutes PERFORMING ARTS CAMP love in the air. In the of the movie. second world, every- I am recommend- ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT thing is evil, with mys- ing this movie for ages SAT/PSAT PREP CLASSES tery around every cor- 10 to 13, because it still ner and its leader — a has a kid-friendly touch SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CAMPS heartless ruler called that would draw little the Bog King (voice by kids in. But, like I said, it OPEN HOUSES FOR ALL PROGRAMS Alex Cumming), bans all does have some mature love in his dark world. scenes. I am giving this Sunday, January 25th, 10 AM–12 PM These two worlds have movie 3 out of 5 stars, be- Saturday, February 28th, 10 AM–12 PM always been separated cause it isn’t something I Saturday, March 7th, 10 AM–12 PM until one fairy princess liked, but I know that Please join us to meet our staff and tour our campus. No RSVP needed. Children welcome. named Marianne (voice by Evan some kids would. Gary Rydstrom, Rachel Wood) crosses the barrier the director, and George Lucas, and changes everything. the producer-writer, do a good job Poly Prep Country Day School I have to admit, this movie is on this film, but it is just not some- different from anything I have thing I personally enjoyed. 9216 Seventh Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11228 ever seen before, but I’m not sure — Samantha A., age 11 www.polyprep.org/summer2015 whether that’s a good or bad thing. See her video review at: http:// It is a musical and most of the youtu.be/SsnwrNWr2Rg

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 33 Advice Ending a tantrum before it even starts ids are like sponges; they ab- You know the usual suggestions: find a way to take my mind off the sorb everything. Even when take a deep breath, walk away until time. How about we sing a song (or K you think they are fully im- you’re calm, close your eyes and practice our spelling words or play mersed in the latest version of “My count to 10. Start applying these I-Spy)?” This models what you want Behavior Little Pony,” a piece of their mind is techniques — or any relaxation tech- your kids to do when they are upset, watching every step you take and niques — in your life. It’s not impor- tell you how they are feeling and do & Beyond listening to every word that comes tant what you do, but rather that you something to change it. Dr. Marcie Beigel out of your mouth. Your behavior is do something to avoid the explosive Be the model for the behavior you a model for their behavior. This is behavior. Need motivation to make want to experience. Talking about both a good thing and something to this change? Do it for your children! how to have good behavior will only be concerned about. Model the behavior you want them go so far. Your actions truly makes a If you’re dealing with tantrums to have now and in the future. difference! in your kids, I’m going to have to Changing behavior is hard. Before Dr. Marcie Beigel is a behavioral ther- ask this question: what behaviors you ask your kiddo to change her apist based in Brooklyn. She has worked have you been modeling? I would behavior, you need to change yours. with thousands of families for more than bet there are times when you lose You can’t expect your child to handle 15 years, and has condensed her ob- your cool and engage in behaviors her emotions better than servations into her prac- that could be defined as an adult you do. Start putting tice and programs. tantrum, including: yelling, scream- the tools in place to For more on her, ing, grabbing, and pounding your fist make it happen. My visit www.Be- against a table. If your “small being” favorite is actually haviorAndBe- (my word for “kids”) is in the room, talking (calmly) yond.net. she is learning that those behaviors about my feel- are appropriate ways to deal with a ings. This shows challenging situation. your small The absolute best way to stop being that your child from having tantrums is emotions don’t to stop throwing your own tantrums! dictate behav- That’s right — stop your adult tan- ior. Say some- trum! thing like, “I’m Stop yelling at your kid when he so frustrated accidentally spills juice on his shirt. that I am going Stop yanking your daughter’s arm to be late because to leave the park when she simply this line is moving won’t get off the swings. Stop rolling so slow.” Maybe your eyes when you get annoyed at even take the next the slow cashier at the supermarket. step and say, “Let’s Most certainly, stop fighting with the other adults in your home. Yes, this is all much harder to do than to say, but it’s a critical key to stop explosive behavior in your child. You will still get angry, frustrated, or annoyed in countless situations. Changing behavior is not about changing or denying how you feel. It is about changing your behavior while acknowledg- ing your feelings. What will you do with those big emotions? Right now the tantrum is letting emotions dictate your behavior. Control your behavior in the face of challenging or overwhelming emotions. I’m not asking you to deny your feelings when they occur.

34 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 Advice Ending a tantrum before it even starts ids are like sponges; they ab- You know the usual suggestions: find a way to take my mind off the sorb everything. Even when take a deep breath, walk away until time. How about we sing a song (or K you think they are fully im- you’re calm, close your eyes and practice our spelling words or play mersed in the latest version of “My count to 10. Start applying these I-Spy)?” This models what you want Behavior Little Pony,” a piece of their mind is techniques — or any relaxation tech- your kids to do when they are upset, watching every step you take and niques — in your life. It’s not impor- tell you how they are feeling and do & Beyond listening to every word that comes tant what you do, but rather that you something to change it. Dr. Marcie Beigel out of your mouth. Your behavior is do something to avoid the explosive Be the model for the behavior you a model for their behavior. This is behavior. Need motivation to make want to experience. Talking about both a good thing and something to this change? Do it for your children! how to have good behavior will only be concerned about. Model the behavior you want them go so far. Your actions truly makes a If you’re dealing with tantrums to have now and in the future. difference! in your kids, I’m going to have to Changing behavior is hard. Before Dr. Marcie Beigel is a behavioral ther- ask this question: what behaviors you ask your kiddo to change her apist based in Brooklyn. She has worked have you been modeling? I would behavior, you need to change yours. with thousands of families for more than bet there are times when you lose You can’t expect your child to handle 15 years, and has condensed her ob- your cool and engage in behaviors her emotions better than servations into her prac- that could be defined as an adult you do. Start putting tice and programs. tantrum, including: yelling, scream- the tools in place to For more on her, ing, grabbing, and pounding your fist make it happen. My visit www.Be- against a table. If your “small being” favorite is actually haviorAndBe- (my word for “kids”) is in the room, talking (calmly) yond.net. she is learning that those behaviors about my feel- are appropriate ways to deal with a ings. This shows challenging situation. your small The absolute best way to stop being that your child from having tantrums is emotions don’t to stop throwing your own tantrums! dictate behav- That’s right — stop your adult tan- ior. Say some- trum! thing like, “I’m Stop yelling at your kid when he so frustrated accidentally spills juice on his shirt. that I am going Stop yanking your daughter’s arm to be late because to leave the park when she simply this line is moving won’t get off the swings. Stop rolling so slow.” Maybe your eyes when you get annoyed at even take the next the slow cashier at the supermarket. step and say, “Let’s Most certainly, stop fighting with the other adults in your home. Yes, this is all much harder to do than to say, but it’s a critical key to stop explosive behavior in your child. You will still get angry, frustrated, or annoyed in countless situations. Changing behavior is not about changing or denying how you feel. It is about changing your behavior while acknowledg- ing your feelings. What will you do with those big emotions? Right now the tantrum is letting emotions dictate your behavior. Control your behavior in the face of challenging or overwhelming emotions. I’m not asking you to deny your feelings when they occur.

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 35 Secrets to earning extra money By AlexA BigwArfe ers returning. And secondly, in 2010 new movie previews. The surveys Six ways to McKinsey and Company released a can range from five minutes to 30 re you looking for a few ways statistic that 92 percent of consum- minutes, and the reward points re- earn free to either earn some extra ers trust word of mouth more than flect the time spent on the survey. A cash or receive free prod- any other marketing on products, You trade your points for rewards ucts just for trying them out? With catapulting the social marketing including Amazon gift cards, PayPal goods, prizes, a small investment of time, there and word of mouth companies. This cash, Visa cards, and more. are plenty of opportunities to earn creates a win-win situation for com- Cash for shopping online. It’s and cash some cash and products on the side. panies looking to spread the word really that easy. Shop online at the For free. about their product, while allowing stores you already shop and earn Why would companies spend consumers to try products free of cash. Here are two of many op- the money to provide free products charge. tions: and rewards? First, it builds trust Six tried and true ways to earn • Ebates is a must if you do a lot and loyalty, keeping their custom- some extra cash, free gifts and of your shopping online. It is free other prizes: to join, and when you make your Social marketing companies. first purchase, you will get a $10 gift Practice your name-dropping Also known as “word of mouth” card to your choice of a selection companies, these are a fantastic of major department stores. The Four popular social marketing guests. You receive product, cou- way to get free goods for your fam- concept is easy. If you’re already companies: pons, and more. In exchange, ily. Companies like House Party and shopping online at Macy’s, Kohl’s, BzzAgent https://www.bz- you spread the word about these BzzAgent rely on marketing through the Gap, Amazon, Living Social, zagent.com. Provides products products. word of mouth. So, in exchange for and many more stores, you simply to consumers and facilitates the Crowd Tap http://www.crowd- your word of mouth via social mar- log onto ebates and shop via the sharing of the consumer opin- tap.com. “Tap In” to the products keting platforms, these companies ebates website. As you shop, you ions with friends and family via marketed through Crowd Tap by send you full-size sample products earn a percentage back in cash. You reviews, Facebook posts, photos answering surveys. These sur- to try and tell your friends about. can also receive cash for referring and videos, blog posts and more. veys may or may not result in se- Online surveys. Take surveys on- friends and family. House Party http://www. lection to try products and host line, share your opinion, and you • S i g n up and shop through the houseparty.com. Join for free, fill parties. earn cash and gift cards. Ipsos-I UPromise site for a percentage back out surveys about the products influenster http://www.influ- Say (i-say.com) is a great option for of your purchases. You can also you use, and then sign up to enster.com. Gain badges by an- anyone who enjoys taking surveys apply for a credit card and receive be selected to host a party at swering questions and reviewing and giving her opinion on products. an additional percentage when you your house. House Party sends products you use. Earn points to There are many survey sites out shop with that or use it at one of the all materials needed to host, as qualify for a “Vox Box” full of com- there, but this is my favorite. The participating restaurants or grocery well as a “party pack” filled with plimentary samples from brands surveys cover a wide variety of top- stores. UPromise also offers an on- items for you to share with your you love. ics and products. Sometimes you line tool — the Turbo Saver, which may even review fun products like will prompt you if you are on a web-

36 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 site of one of its stores to ensure you get your bonus on your purchase. Coupons for cash programs. These are easy and user-friendly programs. Create your free account and link your grocery store loyalty cards. Earn cash. • Saving Star is one of my favorite ways to earn cash. The concept is simple. You log onto your account and “activate” any of the savings deals you want. For example, save $3 when you buy $10 of Classico sauces before Dec. 31. Your grocery rewards cards are linked, and the website keeps track of your purchases. Once you’ve purchased the $10 of Classico sauces, $3 is added into your account. At $5 or more in your account, you receive a payout. The Saving Star coupons usually align with the current local coupons as well, so you get double coupons and cash in your account. Win-win. It has recently also begun a “Cashback Mall,” which operates like Ebates. • W i t h Cellfire.com, simply select your coupons and they are auto- matically loaded to the loyalty card of your choice. It’s an easy way to save money with coupons without having to keep up with any paper coupons. Rewards programs. Earn cash, gift cards, coupons, free promo codes, and more by saving your rewards codes. You may have noticed the codes for beverage program rewards and dia- per rewards on different consum- able items. Set up your free account for any of these products online, log in your codes, and exchange the points for coupons, free products, or charitable donations. Consignment. Do your spring cleaning a little early and get rid of unnecessary items around your house by consigning them. If you are cleaning out children’s clothing and toys, check to see if you have a “Once Upon A Child” consignment store. This store gives you cash upon acceptance of your items. Tra- ditional consignment stores give a percentage of sale price, but it can still be a great way to get rid of un- used items and earn some cash. These are six of many ways to earn or save some money with little to no effort. You may be amazed at what you can get for “free” by invest- ing a little bit of time. Alexa Bigwarfe is the mother of three. She spends her “free time” finding ways to stretch the budget and earn things for free. Alexa also enjoys writing, shopping, and saving money.

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 37 D. Cruz for Visit Philadelphia Family fun in Philly By Shnieka L. JohnSon foundation of our country. In fact arts scene with a young, creative Full of history most of Philadelphia’s historic sites culture in the city. Day and night, nown as the birthplace of and attractions are free. For in- you can walk around the city and and so close American democracy or, stance, the National Historical Park find treasures like public art, gal- K more affectionately, the — an urban park that includes fa- leries, museums, restaurants, and “city of Brotherly Love” — Phila- mous landmarks and icons, such as shops — all of which are located to New York! delphia is a just an hour and a half Independence Hall and the Liberty in or within walking distance of from New York City by train. If you Bell — provides a preserved model downtown. Beginning in the spring are looking to take a day trip or of history right in the heart of the of 2015, visitors can purchase a day long weekend for fun family expe- city. You can also utilize The Con- pass and bike around downtown, riences that involve history, arts, stitutional’s maps and guides to when Philadelphia introduces its and culture, then Philadelphia is embark upon your own self-guided bike-sharing program, which will the city for you. walking tour around historic Phila- include more than 600 bikes at From an educational perspec- delphia. The tour goes through a more than 60 stations. A nice al- tive, Philadelphia has a lot to offer, square mile of historic sites, and is ternative to biking (and walking) so leave the history textbooks and a free and fun-filled activity for the is the Victorian-style trolleys that packets at home. The entire city entire family. Remember to dress travel to most of the notable sites presents United States history in accordingly and wear comfortable, and attractions in the city. an experiential way for its visitors, weather-appropriate clothing and There are a number of places to and provides the whole family a shoes. see and things to do in Philadelphia, compelling way to learn about the Philadelphia also offers a lively including the great cuisine in the

38 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 city to experience that stretches throughout the calendar year. far beyond cheesesteaks (although There is also a trolley shuttle quite delicious). There are also re- (included in the admission price) nowned performing arts and muse- to take you to other cultural in- ums, and, for sports lovers, there stitutions. are professional basketball, foot- [2600 Benjamin Franklin Park- ball, hockey, and baseball teams. way, (215) 763–8100, www.phila- There are so many things to see museum.org] and do, and you’ll want to visit again and again. Philadelphia Zoo Provided below is a list of 10 The 42-acre Victorian garden of my favorites things to do in was the first zoo chartered in the Philadelphia. United States. With its petting zoo and tree house, it is always a Franklin Institute great family-friendly outing. Interactive exhibits, touchable [3400 W. Girard Ave. off N. 34th attractions, and science explora- Street, (215) 243–1100 www.phila- tion is abound at the Franklin delphiazoo.org] Institute. A favorite component of At Brooklyn Friends School, the permanent collection is “The Philly Phlash Sports Challenge,” which illus- Service returning in the spring, we have all the makings of a trates the physics of sports with the shuttle costs $2 per person strategically placed multimedia. per ride ($5 for an all-day pass). great education. [222 N. 20th St. between Race Some children (4 and under) and and Winter streets, (215) 448–1200, seniors are free. An independent, Quaker school for www.fi.edu] [20 stops through Philadelphia, preschool -grade 12 since 1867 (484) 881-3574, http://phlvisitor- Liberty Bell center.com] 375 Pearl Street, Brooklyn NY 11201 Considered a symbol of free- 718-852-1029 dom, all are welcomed to view Please Touch Museum www.brooklynfriends.org this massive artifact. There are The 38,000-square-foot space no tickets required to visit the boasts interactive exhibits for Summer programs in June and July Liberty Bell Center. Please note, children of all ages. Kids are en- visitors must go through security couraged to dress up, create, for Preschool-Grade 8 screening. laugh, and to play. [526 Market St. at N. Fifth Street, [4231 Avenue of the Republic Traditional Sleepaway Camps in Litchfield, CT - 2 hours from NYC (215) 965–2305, www.nps.gov/ Memorial Hall between W. and E. ST 2, 4, 6 or 8 Week Sessions inde/liberty-bell-center.htm] roads, (215) 581-3181, www.please- O IN touchmuseum.org] W G Special “Rookie Week” for Mural Arts A D. Cruz for Visit Philadelphia first time campers Founded as an anti-graffiti pro- Rodin Museum gram in 1984, Mural Arts has There are more than 120 sculp- Family operated for 60+ years become an internationally rec- tures, drawings, paintings, and ognized community-based public studies of Rodin on display at this (800) 66-CAMPS For Boys 6 - 16 For Girls 6 - 16 arts organization. You and your museum. Several large pieces are kids can view contemporary art on view in the garden and there is Family fun in Philly throughout the city. Take a free a nearby reflecting pool. tour of the many vibrant murals. [2157 Benjamin Franklin Park- By Shnieka L. JohnSon foundation of our country. In fact arts scene with a young, creative [901 Market St., Level 2, be- way and N. 22nd Street, (215) 763– Full of history most of Philadelphia’s historic sites culture in the city. Day and night, tween N. Ninth and S. 10th streets, 8100, www.rodinmuseum.org] nown as the birthplace of and attractions are free. For in- you can walk around the city and (215) 925–3633, www.muralarts. and so close American democracy or, stance, the National Historical Park find treasures like public art, gal- org] Reading Terminal K more affectionately, the — an urban park that includes fa- leries, museums, restaurants, and Market “city of Brotherly Love” — Phila- mous landmarks and icons, such as shops — all of which are located National Constitution Offering a variety of foods, the to New York! delphia is a just an hour and a half Independence Hall and the Liberty in or within walking distance of Center market showcases more than 80 from New York City by train. If you Bell — provides a preserved model downtown. Beginning in the spring This museum is an interactive vendors. Kids will like watching are looking to take a day trip or of history right in the heart of the of 2015, visitors can purchase a day space centered upon the docu- the cooking demonstrations and No Summer Vacation Was Ever This Much Fun! long weekend for fun family expe- city. You can also utilize The Con- pass and bike around downtown, ment on which our nation was the other events taking place in riences that involve history, arts, stitutional’s maps and guides to when Philadelphia introduces its founded. It is a fun, multimedia the market. Come experience the Awosting & Chinqueka difference. and culture, then Philadelphia is embark upon your own self-guided bike-sharing program, which will experience for the entire family. [51 N. 12th St. at Arch Street, Watersports, Zip Line & Extreme Activities, Team Sports, the city for you. walking tour around historic Phila- include more than 600 bikes at [525 Arch St. between N. Fifth (215) 922–2317, www.readingtermi- Performing Arts, Go-Karts, Motocross, Mini-Golf & more! From an educational perspec- delphia. The tour goes through a more than 60 stations. A nice al- and Sixth streets, (215) 409–6700, nalmarket.org/ Awosting & Chinqueka are brother-sister camps, 5 miles apart. tive, Philadelphia has a lot to offer, square mile of historic sites, and is ternative to biking (and walking) http://constitutioncenter.org] • • • Call to schedule a visit or do a virtual tour on our web site. so leave the history textbooks and a free and fun-filled activity for the is the Victorian-style trolleys that Shnieka Johnson is an education packets at home. The entire city entire family. Remember to dress travel to most of the notable sites Philadelphia consultant and freelance writer. She is presents United States history in accordingly and wear comfortable, and attractions in the city. Museum of Art based in Manhattan where she resides Great savings if you enroll today & a friend enrolls too! an experiential way for its visitors, weather-appropriate clothing and There are a number of places to Visitors can tour 80 period with her husband and son. Contact her and provides the whole family a shoes. see and things to do in Philadelphia, rooms in this museum space. via her website: www.shniekajohnson. awosting.com chinqueka.com compelling way to learn about the Philadelphia also offers a lively including the great cuisine in the Free family programs are offered com.

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 39 St. Francis Xavier Catholic Academy Catholic Schools Park Slope Providing a Christ-Centered Education since 1914 Directory Pre-K-3 through Grade 8 Bishop Loughlin St. agatha School memorial High School 736 48th Street 357 Clermont St. 718-435-3137 or www. 718-857-2700 or www.blmhs.org saintagathaschool.blogspot.com Bishop Loughlin Memorial High Located in the Sunset Park com- School is a Catholic, college pre- munity, we have been providing generations of families with the paratory high school that draws its best in Catholic education (Nursery Christian perspective from the faith through 8th Grade) since 1922. We tradition of the Roman Catholic believe in excellence without excep- Church and the Lasallian tradition tion for every student, regardless of of the Brothers of the Christian “Grow in faith, love, and knowledge” ethnic background or religion. Each Schools. Loughlin fosters academic student is provided with a caring success, builds character, devel- and nurturing environment where Open House ops future leaders, and nurtures a they are encouraged to develop is held every Thursday from 9 to 10am vibrant personal relationship with their God given talents and abilities God. Loughlin stimulates and sup- to their greatest potential. ports a student’s quest for intel- You are invited to visit and see what makes our school special: Students consistently receive lectual, spiritual, physical, moral competitive scores on standard- caring teachers, high academic standards and and civic development. Students ized tests. Most graduates are a deep respect for Catholic values are challenged to achieve their full accepted at their High School of potential to strive for excellence 763 President Street • Brooklyn, NY 11215 1st choice, and many receive schol- and to further their education at arships. The High Schools that For information call: 718-857-2559 colleges and universities. Loughlin have chosen to recruit St. Agatha or visit our website students, faculty, and staff are com- graduates include: Xaverian, Bishop www.sfxsparkslope.org mitted to an inclusive community Ford, Xavier, Stuyvesant, Bishop that respects diversity in its many St. FranciS college PartnerS hiP • Middle StateS a ccredited Kearney, St. Savior, Regis, St. John’s forms and values excellence in Prep, Fontbonne Hall Academy, St. scholarship. Joseph, La Guardia, Brooklyn Tech and many more. St. Francis of Assisi Our Lady of Grace St. Agatha School also emphasizes School the importance of service and char- 385 Avenue W ity. Our students are encouraged Catholic Academy 718-375-2081 or www.olgbk.org to live out their values and make a positive impact in their community 400 Lincoln Road • Brooklyn, NY 11225 Mrs. Meghan Sarno, Principal and the world at large. Considering a Catholic school for your child? Take a moment to con- Saint Brigid Catholic sider the benefits of Our Lady of Grace School. academy 438 Grove Street Parents choose our school for their 718-821-1477 or sbcaprincipal@ children because of our high aca- gmail.com demic standards, Christ-centered Saint Brigid Catholic Academy education, and a safe school envi- has served the communities of + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + ronment. We stress the value of Ridgewood and Bushwick for over self-discipline and commitment in 100 years. The St. Brigid commu- Serving children in Pre K ~ Grade 8 our students, and encourage fam- nity continues its mission of pro- FREE Pre K (UPK) ily involvement in every student’s viding a program of total religious education. For Academic Excellence formation for each of its students, Our students consistently score coupled with an excellent academic For a Faith-Based Education significantly about the national program. For Creative Arts, Music and Drama averages in standardized testing. We are proud to provide students Our faculty and staff are commit- with a value-based and enriched For 21st Century Technology Education ted to the best education for every academic course of study following + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + student, and they are role models the State Common Core Standards. of faith, of learning, and of service Every classroom has a state-of-the Tours, Interviews & Registrations: to the community. While not all stu- art Smart board, which enables us 8:30 AM Tuesday mornings starting in February dents who come to Catholic schools to engage each student in a more are Catholic, all share experiences meaningful and interactive learn- Call: 718-778-3700 or email: [email protected] of faith and values that are univer- ing environment. In addition to www.sfabrooklyn.org sal. Our Lady of Grace is where stu- the Common Core curriculum, our dent grow in faith and wisdom! Continued on page 42 40 BROOKLYN FamiLY • February 2015 Special Advertising Section Registration 2015 – 2016 Every Day 9am–1pm OPEN HOUSE January 25th • 1-3pm

Nursery & Pre-K Saint Brigid Full Days & 1/2 Days Middle States Accredited Catholic Academy Full Day Kindergarten & Grades 1-8 438 Grove Street • Brooklyn, NY 11237 Regents Program for Junior High [email protected] • 718-821-1477 Smartboard Technology - Grades N-8 Toddler Time Program • 2 Year Olds Principal: Ms. Lisa Ross Before & After School Available School Tours Available Upon Request For More Information After School until 6 p.m. Call Mrs. Sarno, Principal • 718-375-2081 Hot Breakfast and Lunch (Reduced & Free Rates Available) After School Clubs including Drama Club, Our Lady of Grace School School Newspaper and Media Club 385 Avenue W, Brooklyn, NY Full Day Pre-k 4 “A Family Tradition” & #" % ! & #" % !

St. Patrick Catholic Academy Offering The BEST In Catholic Education Nursery - Grade 8 Early Morning and Extended Day Programs

♣ Enrichment Programs ♣ State-Of-The-Art Computer Lab ♣ Library/Media Center ♣ Fully Equipped Science Lab ♣ Student Orchestra ♣ Girls’ Choir & Boys’ Choir ♣ Art Program ♣ Drama Club ♣ Parent & Play (Baby & Toddler Program) ((( - Tuesdays 9:15 - 10:30 # " $ ((( 401 - 97th Street ÜÜÜ°Ã>ÌÃ>ÛÕÀV>Ì V>V>`iÞ°À} # " $ Brooklyn, NY 11209 [email protected] ÜÜÜ°Ã>ÌÃ>ÛÕÀV>Ì V>V>`iÞ°À}0DXUD /RUHQ]HQ 3ULQFLSDO Call Us At 718-833-0124 0DXUD-XOLDQ /RUHQ]HQ 3DUKDP 6DQWDQD3ULQFLSDO For A Personal Tour $GPLVVLRQV-XOLDQ DQG 3DUKDP 0DUNHWLQJ 6DQWDQD &RRUGLQDWRU Special Advertising Section $GPLVVLRQV DQG 0DUNHWLQJFebruary 2015 &RRUGLQDWRU • BROOKLYN FamiLY 41 Catholic Schools Directory

OPEN HOUSE Continued from page 40 St. Francis of Assisi Catholic students have classes in Spanish, Academy (SFACA) is located in the Thursday, February 26, 2015 music, computer and physical edu- Prospect/Lefferts Gardens area of 5pm-7pm cation. Flatbush. St. Francis has educated We celebrate our different cultures children for more than 103 years in Afterschool Clubs and our special gifts. We offer our the Catholic tradition of excellence. and Activities students opportunities to express The school follows the NYS cur- AP Classes their individual talents. We also riculum for the core subjects. offer a diversity of after-school Specials include Physical Education, Community Service clubs that interest the students at and Youth Retreats Technology, Music, Art, and no charge to the family. Performing Arts. Students are Competitive Sports Programs The staff and faculty are committed instructed to act as peer mediators, Music Recording Studio to growth in leadership and to fos- classes include focus on conflict Performing Arts Program tering academic opportunities that resolution and non-violent behavior and the school’s Peace Garden is a Scholarships allow students to develop positively. Ms. Ross, the school principal, continual reminder of our commit- AND MUCH MORE … www.blmhs.org states, “The teachers are dedicated ment to creating a peaceful soci- and hardworking. Teamwork is ety. Students graduate St. Francis Bishop Loughlin Memorial H.S. is an award winning Blue Ribbon school what makes Saint Brigid a success- equipped with strong study skills, located in the beautiful Clinton Hill section of Brooklyn. ful school.” Please contact the time-management and note-taking Loughlin is a college preparatory high school, that fosters academic success, school for a tour by phone or email techniques that prepare them for builds character, develops future leaders and nurtures religious faith. to see firsthand all we have to offer. High School and College.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Financial aid is available through St. Francis of Assisi programs sponsored by the Roman ADMISSIONS: 718-857-2700 EXT. 2246 400 Lincoln Road Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn and [email protected] 718-778-3700 or www. the SFACA Alumni Scholarship Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School 357 Clermont Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11238 sfabrooklyn.org Program.

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42 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 Special Advertising Section V E R I A A N Catholic Schools XAVERIAN X Become a part of Xaverian’s 57 year TACHS#011 R

E M S A tradition of academic excellence and enjoy I P I R C E A Directory the following: S M T E A B L L A V O C . R M . Y O N [ A cutting edge, one-to-one learning O K L Y N Please visit us at www.sfabrooklyn. Full day three-year-old program, environment complete with Smart A Catholic, college classrooms and an iPad for each student org for a virtual tour. You can con- early morning and extended day [ preparatory boys’ tact us by calling 718-778-3700 or programs are available. The Michael T. Strianese ‘74 STEM Program at Xaverian offers project and high school in the tradition emailing us at office@sfabrooklyn. problem based learning through hands- on classroom experiences in the areas of of the Xaverian Brothers org. St Saviour Catholic Science, Technology, Engineering, and since 1957. Academy Math. The growth of St. Francis Xavier the highly acclaimed STEM program, 701 8th Avenue which was implemented through a Be our guest as a partnership with Project Lead the Way, Catholic Academy 718-768-8000 or www. has been bolstered by a recent $1 “Clipper for a Day.” 763 President Street saintsaviourcatholicacademy.org million gift donated by Spend a day on our campus Mr. and Mrs. Michael T. Strianese ‘74. 718-857-2559 or www. Principal – Maura Lorenzen and experience what life is sfxsparkslope.org [ College credit opportunities available like as a Clipper! Located in Park Slope, the school through numerous Advanced Placement, Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8 St. John’s University, and Syracuse has a diverse and vibrant student University courses Opened in 1914, St. Francis Xavier body and attracts children from all School continues to provide a faith [ Impressive college placements in which over Brooklyn. The long tradition of the class of 2014 earned $23,279,608 in filled, value-centered Catholic excellent education continues with scholarships to top colleges, including education with high academic Cornell University, Princeton University, new programs, upgraded facilities University of Pennsylvania, Macaulay standards and expectations. The and an inspired faculty. Classes Honors College at CUNY, Boston dedicated faculty and staff are com- University, College of the Holy Cross, range from Nursery through Grade University of Notre Dame, US Naval mitted to providing a challenging, 8. We offer a balanced curriculum, Academy, US Military Academy at West structured, creative, caring environ- rigorous academics, and a strong Point, and US Coast Guard Academy ment where your child can obtain arts program. Each year we add [ A robust college guidance and internship the necessary skills for success in program (see www.xaverian.org/ipax for For more information, please contact: innovative programs and recently a full list of internship partners) Mr. Mark Spelman ’92, Director of Admissions high school and college. In addi- partnered with our local YMCAs (718) 836-7100 x117 tion to developing the student’s [ Dynamic extracurricular offerings, to enrich our physical education. In including the renowned Music at Xaverian or [email protected] talents and abilities, St. Francis addition to extended school, there (MAX) program 7100 Shore Road, Brooklyn, NY 11209 Xavier School encourages good is an exciting Enrichment Program. Private Bus Service Available! www.xaverian.org/admissions study habits, leadership qualities Each year our graduates are and sound decision making skills, accepted into prestigious Catholic, along with a respect for life within public and private high schools. a faith community. For more information, please visit us during our In accordance with Catholic values, open house every Thursday from 9 we educate students in mind, body a.m. – 10 a.m. and spirit.

St. Patrick Catholic Xaverian High School Academy 7100 Shore Road, Brooklyn 718-836-7100, ext 117 or www. th 401 97th Street 736 48 Street, Brooklyn, NY 11220 • 718-435-3137 xaverian.org 718-833-0124 or www. Ms. Alice Rios, Principal ~ saintagathaschool.blogspot.com Xaverian offers a strong liberal st-patrickschool.org “Our Doors Are Always Open For You” Andrea Denic - Principal arts core program, complemented by the opportunity to enter a • Strong academic, physical and • Well-equipped hands-on Science and Offering children in nursery to Pre-Professional Pathway of spiritual development. Math Labs. eighth grade the best in Catholic study. There is a wide array of • Learning Center for support in Literacy • After-school program providing education. Advanced Placement and college & Math. homework help, socialization and • Dept. of Ed. Title I services in activities until 6:00pm. Their outstanding Music Program credit courses through St. John’s Guidance, Literacy, Math and ESL. • Exemplary Reading and Math results includes vocal instruction begin- University and Syracuse University. • A full-time Nurse provided by the NYC on NYS exams. ning at nursery level, a Student Xaverian students are also exposed Dept. of Health. • Home School Association. Orchestra, a Boys’ Choir, and a to real world application of knowl- • Aquinas Program affiliated with the • Dedicated Alumni Association. Girls’ Choir whose CD Angelic edge through a robust Internship Diocesan Aquinas • Wi-Fi Internet Access throughout the Voices features selections of • Updated Computer Lab equipped school. Program. The widely acclaimed with Lenovo Computers, Laptops and • Tuition assistance programs available. Christmas music. STEM (Science, Technology, Interactive Whiteboards. • After school clubs include robotics, Enrichment programs are offered Engineering, and Math) Program is • Multimedia Center with Internet basketball, game development, etc. to academically talented students offered through a partnership with access to the NY Public Library • Monthly Liturgies and Seasonal Prayer databases. in grades one through eight. A fully Project Lead the Way (PLTW). Our Services. • Art and Physical Education. • Smart Board equipped classrooms equipped Science lab, state-of- unique educational approach is the-art computer lab, and Library/ bolstered by the use of the iPad, an Registration Ongoing Media Center provide students with invaluable tool which is issued to research and technology skills that each student for his 4-year tenure For Fall 2015 ensure future academic success. at Xaverian. Full day Pre-K class for 4 yr. olds • Ask about our Early Morning Drop-Off Full Day and Half day Jr. Pre-K class for 3 yr. olds • Free Yellow School Bus Service Find Family online at www.NYParenting.com Please call at 718-435-3137 or access our blog for further information.

Special Advertising Section February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 43 New-York Historical Society / Glenn Castellano The Annie Liebovitz “Pilgramage” exhibit at the New York Historical Society comes alive with a family guide. Off the walls By Shnieka L. JohnSon I spoke to Alice Stevenson, director so dense, we wanted to make sure How museum of the DiMenna Children’s History kids walked away from the exhibi- any museums in New Museum, about the addition of a tion with a deeper understanding family guides York City are making ef- family guide for an exhibit like “Pil- of these important figures in Ameri- M forts to not only attract grimage.” can history. families with children, but to also Shnieka Johnson: What is the SJ: What types of activities are can enrich engage them. For instance, the Met- family guide? included? ropolitan Museum of Art has family alice Stevenson: “The Annie Lei- aS: We selected 10 photographs children’s guides available to use when ex- bovitz: Pilgrimage Family Guide” from the exhibition and for each ploring the space, and the Museum is a way for kids and grown-ups to image we have two pages. One of Modern Art offers art cards as explore the exhibition together — page has “Look” questions direct- experience well as a space dedicated to hands- to look closely, to discuss, to form ing families to notice details in the on learning for children and fami- opinions, and to learn something photographs. The second page has lies. I recently visited the New York new. It first encourages families to “Learn” text layering in relevant his- Historical Society, also home to look closely at Leibovitz’s work in torical information and hopefully the DiMenna Children’s Museum, order to appreciate the composi- some surprising facts. We wanted to view the Annie Leibovitz exhibition, the mood, the objects, and Annie Leibovitz’s photographs to tion, “Pilgrimage.” It was a pleas- to ponder her intentions; and sec- speak for themselves, and then we ant surprise to see that the exhibit ond it layers in historical informa- wanted the historical figures to had a family guide available so that tion about the places, events, and “speak” to the families. After all, my child could be engaged as we people related to the photographs. these are all portraits of people, in walked through the gallery space. The history she is representing is their own way.

44 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 both more deeply understand the past and perhaps gain perspec- “By connecting with tive on their own lives as New stories, kids can Yorkers. Are you a mom SJ: Did the photographer have both more deeply a preference for which images were used in the guide? who wants to understand the AS: No, we were able to chose from her works on view. past and perhaps SJ: How does the guide help the make money? gain perspective family flow through the exhibit? AS: Museum visitors some- on their own lives times come in to exhibitions with the expectation that they have to as New Yorkers.” see every object. As an adult that can be tiring, but as a kid it can be exhausting. For example, at first, families Family guides and programs won’t be aware they are looking help this by highlighting a few ob- at Abraham Lincoln’s top hat. We jects around a theme, or suggest- start by asking them to notice ing a mode of looking. things like the wear on the hat, We hope that families visit all or where someone would wear a the photographs in this guide, hat like this. Once families have and then if they have an appetite looked closely at the hat itself, we for more they will keep exploring. then introduce Lincoln, and share I always encourage grown-ups that it was worn the night of his to stop at a handful of objects, assassination. and then see where their interest Tops hats are associated with takes them. Lincoln in general, but this object SJ: What is the suggested age is so specific to this momentous range for the guide? night in our history. AS: 6 and up. SJ: Why was it important to SJ: Why this and not an audio draw families to this particular tour? exhibit? AS: We have done audio tours AS: The New-York Historical for families in the past — this Society is committed to engag- summer we had one for “Madeline We want you to join our team. ing families in all of our exhibi- in New York: The Art of Ludwig tions, in addition to the DiMenna Bemelmans.” Children’s History Museum. We For this guide we chose a We are looking for a do this in a variety of ways — written piece because we really through performing arts classes wanted to encourage contempla- motivated candidate. related to Chinese American: Ex- tion of the works, and that is clusion-Inclusion, or a scavenger a very subjective experience. I hunt that brings families through might think looking for two min- No sales experience necessary, our permanent collection, or our utes is enough, someone else Reading into History book club might want to look for five min- but a car and liking people looking at documents in our li- utes. brary. An audio guide felt too one- is a must! One of the things I love about size-fits-all for what we wanted to “Pilgrimage” is that the photo- accomplish with this guide. Full benefits, salary and graphs are a personal explora- SJ: Are there upcoming family tion of Leibovitz’s interest in his- programming or family-friendly commission tory. We encourage kids to con- events related to this exhibit? nect with and wonder about the AS: In addition to the family people in American history, and guide, our Little New-Yorkers pro- their struggles and triumphs. By gram will hold a storytelling proj- connecting with stories, kids can ect in the gallery.

Annie Leibovitz “Pilgrimage” exhibit closes Feb. 22. DiMenna Children’s Mu- Email resumes to [email protected] seum at the New York Historical Society [170 Central Park West at 77th Street on or call Tina at 718-260-8336 the Upper West Side, (212) 873-3400, ‎www.nyhistory.org/childrens-museum] The Metropolitan Museum of Art [1000 Fifth Ave. at 82nd Street on the Upper East Side, (212) 535–7710, www.metmuseum.org/learn/for-kids/family-guides. Museum of Modern Art [11 W. 53rd St. between Sixth and Fifth avenues in Mid- town, (212) 708–9400, www.moma.org/learn/kids_families/visits Shnieka Johnson is an education consultant and freelance writer. She is based in Manhattan where she resides with her husband and son. Contact her via her website: www.shniekajohnson.com.

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 45 Relationships

know he believes. This president won’t learn anything from them, and may come to believe that his view is the only valid one. That there are no alternatives. Now imagine the president sur- rounded by cabinet members who share various ideas, and discuss the merits and disadvantages of numerous and perhaps opposing courses to follow. This president would hear about different options and their consequences. Divorce & Now consider yourself the president. Which advisors would you Separation want on your team? The ones who Lee Chabin, esq. tell you only what you want to hear — or the ones who help you clearly see the situation so that you can make the best decisions possible? During my own divorce, Steve, a close friend from out of state, never had anything bad to say about my wife. He didn’t tell me what I was entitled to or to fight for it. He did, though, ask me these questions: Block out the “How’s your daughter doing?” “Are you taking good care of her?” That second question made me angry. badmouthing True, I was broken up. My work for a publishing company suffered. I was terribly sad. Seek support that really helps But when it came to caring for my child, I didn’t miss a beat; a source of ou’re right not to let him when we are angry or afraid. Take pride even now, many years later. spend time with the kids. us out when we are lonely. Pick up I wondered how could my friend “Y He didn’t take care of groceries. Have our kids over for a ask me that question? you; he didn’t take care of them. You play date so that we have more time After a moment, it hit me that don’t owe him anything. The kids are to handle what we need to. Steve was an even better friend than better off without him.” These actions and countless oth- I had realized. Steve cared about Statements like this one — sup- ers are constructive and lessen our me, and my daughter as well. Living portive of one spouse or partner and burdens. But relentless criticism of elsewhere, he couldn’t know if I was very antagonistic toward the other the significant other is something doing a good job as a father at that — are common when a relationship else altogether. difficult time. So he asked me a hard ends. Friends and relatives are there Why? To be blunt, many of those question. for us, taking our side no matter close to us don’t know what they’re Thankfully, I was holding it to- what, against a partner who has hurt talking about or have a skewed view gether as a parent. But what if I or betrayed us. They help us keep of the partner. That’s because most wasn’t? Fortunately, I had a friend going when we are exhausted and of us — even when a relationship is who was ready to help me face that feeling hopeless. Where would we be good — tell others many more nega- problem and deal with it. For me, without them? tive things regarding our partners that was tremendous, and infinitely Probably better off, if bashing our than positive ones. Over time, sup- more supportive than if he had said partners is all they do. porters may become hostile to the nasty things about my spouse. Yes, most friends and relatives partner. When the split occurs, they New York City and Long Island-based are well-intentioned. But listening understandably blame the partner divorce mediator and collaborative di- to them badmouth the other person and don’t have anything good to say. vorce lawyer Lee Chabin helps clients can worsen problems rather than Often, this is to our detriment. end their relationships respectfully and solve them. without going to court. Contact him at What’s wrong with [email protected], (718) 229– What’s the problem hearing what we 6149, or go to http://lc-mediate.com/. with a friend already believe? Follow him on Facebook at www.face- standing by me? Consider a president and his or book.com/lchabin. There are many ways for people her cabinet. The cabinet members, in Disclaimer: All material in this column is for informational to be supportive. They can listen speaking to him, only say what they purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

46 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 The Brooklyn Charter School AcceptingThe Brooklyn Applications Charter School for K-5! Families are invited to Open House and Tour Sessions to learn more about Acceptingour school and our academic Applications program. for K-5! Families are invited to Open House and Tour Sessions to learn more about our school and our academic program.

ABOUT US: •Free, no tuition ABOUT•Rigorous academic US: program supported by the arts and technology •Free,•Highly no qualiﬁed, tuition well-trained teachers •Rigorous•Average classacademic size programof 20 students/2 supported teachers by the arts per and class technology •Highly•Fully inclusive qualiﬁed, classrooms well-trained & ELLteachers instruction •Average•After-school class programs size of 20 students/2 teachers per class •Fully•Active inclusive family participation classrooms & through ELL instruction Family Action Committee •After-schoolBCS upholds a non-discriminatory programs policy and welcomes applications from all families regardless of race, gender, religion or culture. We welcome students with disabilities and English Language •ActiveLearners. family participation through Family Action Committee

BCS upholds a non-discriminatory policy and welcomes applications from all families regardless of race, gender, religion or culture. We welcome students with disabilities and English Language RecruitingLearners. for 2015 school year: Tour Dates: Wednesdays, 10AM February 4, 11, 25 • March 4, 11, 18, 25 • April 1, 2015 Open House Sessions: Thursdays at 6PM January 29, February 26, March 26, 2015 RecruitingJanuary 14, 21, for 28 2015 • February school 4, 11,year: 25 • March 4, 11, 18, 25 Apply online at www.brooklyncharter.org April 1, 2015 545RecruitingJanuary Willoughby 14, 21, Ave,for 28 3rd 2015 • floorFebruary school Brooklyn, 4, 11, year:NY 25 11206 • March 718 302-2085 4, 11, 18, 25 www.brooklyncharter.orgOpen House Sessions: Thursdays at 6PM April 1, 2015 Building Bridges To Tomorrow January 29, February 26, March 29, 2015 February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 47 ApplyOpen Houseonline atSessions: www.br ooklyncharter.orgThursdays at 6PM January 29, February 26, March 29, 2015 Apply online at www.brooklyncharter.org 545 Willoughby Ave, 3rd ﬂoor Brooklyn, NY 11206 718 302-2085 www.brooklyncharter.org Building Bridges To Tomorrow 545 Willoughby Ave, 3rd ﬂoor Brooklyn, NY 11206 718 302-2085 www.brooklyncharter.org Building Bridges To Tomorrow Ice queens By Tammy Scileppi Piers, to Queens’ World Ice Arena ber team has been together for six to This team is and City Ice Pavilion, as well as seven years. When you watch them ll over the city lots of fami- Brooklyn’s popular McCarren Park skate, you can tell they’re having fun taking the lies are celebrating winter Rink, just to name a few. — and it’s no wonder, because they A by hitting the ice and getting If your family adventure takes you all love the artistic creativity that their glide on. Skating is a cool bond- to the Sky Rink, you may catch a goes into creating unique choreogra- figure skating ing activity, a great form of exercise, glimpse of a fabulous skating team, phy. And they know the importance and a fun way to get rid of those win- Reach for the Sky Rink All Stars, of being an inclusive community, world by ter blues. And it really doesn’t matter rehearsing for its next show on Feb. while enhancing the very precious much whether you and the kids are 14. relationships they have with each agile skaters or kind of uncoordi- Under the direction of the team’s other. storm nated (in a cute way). Skating is an beloved coach Marni Halasa, this The talented skaters come from exciting and “forgiving” sport that’s all-girl group of awesome figure skat- private and public schools in the open to everyone, at any level. So go ers has been Sky Rink’s longest-run- city, and dedicate at least three to six ahead, put on those heavy sweaters, ning ensemble team for the past days a week at Sky Rink. Their strong dust off and lace up those skates, seven years, and has performed team spirit, collective drive, and pas- and get to the nearest rink. And various routines at Rockefeller Cen- sion for skating, combined with their when you’re done, relax and take a ter. Check out www.youtube.com/ amazing “perform on a dime” skills, hot cocoa break. watch?v=atUvMRQrBKw for a look at will definitely help them succeed in There are several great rinks in the team’s in action. their future careers, and in everyday the city, from the iconic Rockefeller The girls range in age from 12 to life. Skating has taught them valu- Center and the Sky Rink at Chelsea 18 years, and the close-knit, 15-mem- able lessons. “I’m really proud of these girls, even though they have rigorous school schedules, battle injuries, lack of sleep … they are all really committed and keep the team going,” said Halasa. “We performed five shows in December and even with different casts, and not much rehearsal time, the girls made it work ‘on the fly.’ ” Watch this video featuring the girls performing as Santas at the 2014 Holiday on the Hudson Skat- ing Show at Chelsea Piers’ Sky Rink, where they wowed the audience with their humorous routine to the holiday hit (from the movie “Elf”), “Nobody Cares About Santa Claus” this past Dec. 19: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=H-xaxcOs7WA. The team members, who were the 2014 and 2013 Showcase National medalists, won first place at the Great Neck (Long Island) ISI Compe- tition on Dec. 7. “The competition was fierce and judging is always subjective, but the girls managed to pull ahead in spectacular fashion,” said Halasa. “I try to teach them that it’s not always about skating perfectly; it’s about the chemistry they have with each other, emotionally connecting with an audience, becoming a character

Photo by Peter Cecere and taking risks during performance (Above) Coach Marni Halasa with Reach for the Sky Rink All Stars. (Opposite) Rehearsing at Sky Rink in 2010. to up the ante — intangibles that

48 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 Mona Johnson, 16, who calls Chi- natown home, feels that during the past seven years the team has become a second family, “and we know we’re there for each other.” Although she says she’s not at every practice, she has realized that the team really provides “a safe environment, where we can brainstorm and experiment with ideas. We push each other to achieve the best of our abilities, but also don’t judge each other.” Halasa says that this kind of artistic team skating “is significant for the universe of figure skating” because membership had been dropping from the US Figure Skating, the national governing body of the sport. “No longer do parents strive for the unrealistic goal of going to the Olympics as an individual, but support their child’s participation as a member on a national synchro or production team,” she added. Now that more children are involved in figure skating, membership for the US Figure Skating and Skating Club of New York has increased, she said, and the new trend allows New York families to embrace more realistic expectations for their children, because “showcase teams don’t have such rigorous participation rules; anyone of any level can join, and be part of the team — which fits in well with the rigorous schooling of city schools.” The All Stars also have an outreach mission, in which they’ve taught kids in Brooklyn to skate at the Abe Stark Arena, helped children hard-hit by Hurricane Sandy, and donated their time to Ice Theatre of New York for community service. Teens and parents can now see, first-hand, how skating can be a won- derfully fulfilling activity. “Participants learn skating skills, social skills, responsibility, time- management, dedication, and how Photo by Marni Halasa to generate good ideas,” Halasa said. can catapult a performance to an skills that I’m sure I will use later in of my shell. I’ve been a quirky circus “We have a U.S. Nationals pair com- entirely new level.” life,” she said. “What’s great is that I character, a Santa Claus that doesn’t petitor, a Showcase National indi- get to be a leader, as well as a friend get any respect, and Velma’s an- vidual bronze medalist, as well as About the All Stars to my teammates. But what I really noying husband from Chicago’s ‘Cell Ice Skating Institute competitors all The Reach for the Sky Rink All notice is our overall progress — with Block Tango,’ ” she recalled. “Play- skating together to create an amaz- Stars is made up of senior and junior every experience, we are all becoming all these different characters is ing production number. You don’t re- teams, and the great thing about ing more confident in our own skins. not only fun, but helps me feel more ally get that chance in other sports, being on a showcase team like theirs “Seeing the audience’s reactions comfortable with my solo skating to compete on a national level, and is that it accommodates all levels of is an incredible feeling. We throw in and other athletic activities.” the kids really benefit from that ex- skating. This means that your teen a lot of comedy and I love hearing Chelsea resident Jean-Li Spencer, perience.” daughter doesn’t have to be an aspir- the audience laugh throughout our 15, also feels incredibly accepted by For more on the team, check out its ing Olympic athlete to get in. performances.” her teammates. Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ Team Captain Catherine Mayer, Emma Wender, 16, who lives in “When I skate with my friends I skyrinkallstars?ref=br_t 15, lives on Manhattan’s Upper West Midtown West with her family, en- feel really free, which is a feeling that All Stars at the Skating Club of New Side and skates on the senior team. joys embodying a whole host of is really hard to achieve skating solo. York’s Showcase Competition at the Sky “It’s hard work, but it really pays characters in her routines. Skating together with my friends is a Rink [61 Chelsea Piers 23rd St. at the off. Being on the team gives me a “I’m normally pretty shy, but when place where we can all be ourselves Hudson River in Chelsea, (212) 336– chance to practice many different I perform with my friends, I come out and do what we love together.” 6100, www.chelseapiers.com] Feb. 14.

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 49 HealtH

Family HealtH Dr. PramoD Narula, mD Chairman of Pediatrics New York methodist Hospital

Preventing pinkeye

Several children in my daughter’s treatment is the best way to limit care or school in three to five days. class have recently been diagnosed its spread. Unlike pinkeye due to a viral in- with pinkeye. I certainly want to make The most common symptoms of fection, pinkeye that is caused by sure that she isn’t next! Can you tell pinkeye include redness in one or bacteria can be treated with anti- me more about the disease, how it is both eyes, itchiness in one or both biotics, and the child can return to spread, and ways to make sure my eyes, a gritty feeling in one or both school 24 hours after an antibiotic children aren’t infected? eyes, and tearing and-or discharge of has been started if symptoms have fluid in one or both eyes that forms a improved. inkeye, also known as con- crust during the night. A distinguish- The best way to avoid the discom- junctivitis, is an inflammation ing characteristic between viral pink- fort of pinkeye is to prevent the infec- P or infection of the transpar- eye and bacterial conjunctivitis is the tion from occurring at all. Practicing ent membrane that lines the eyelid color of the discharge; viral pinkeye good hygiene is the best way to con- and part of the eyeball. This mem- tends to have a clear discharge, while trol its spread; poor hand-washing brane, known as the conjunctiva, is bacterial pinkeye is often opaque, is the main cause of the spread of usually clear. However, if irritation or with a greenish-yellow hue. pinkeye. Sharing an object, such as infection occurs, it can become red In the case of conjunctivitis a washcloth or towel, with a child and swollen. caused by a virus, there is no simple who has pinkeye can also spread the The cause of pinkeye is com- “cure” — the infection simply must infection. monly a viral or bacterial infection, run its course while the body fights There’s no need to panic; pinkeye an allergic reaction or — in new- it off. A case of viral conjunctivi- is a minor eye infection, but left un- borns — an incompletely opened tis typically goes away in seven to treated it could develop into a more tear duct. Most cases of conjuncti- 10 days, and over-the-counter rem- serious condition. A visit to the pe- vitis are caused by viral infections. edies, such as warm or cold com- diatrician if you are concerned that However, both viral and bacterial presses, can help alleviate some your child has pinkeye can ensure conjunctivitis are very contagious, of the symptoms in the meantime. that conjunctivitis doesn’t have you which is why early diagnosis and Children can usually return to day seeing red. Or pink.

50 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 The Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts 234 Roosevelt Hall, 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11210 Over 30 years of music, theater, and dance instruction for children age 3 and up. Spring Semester begins February 5th New classes for Spring include • Dance for age 3 and up • Theater classes for age 5 and up • Music and movement – first music class for age 3 and up • Group piano and guitar classes for age 5 and up • Beginner to advanced instrument and voice lessons for children and adults • Weekend and weekday lessons and classes Please call 718-951-4111 for complete information on spring classes and registration. Visit our website www.bcprepcenter.org

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 51 HealtH Pet safety in winter he frigid temperatures around doors is no place for pets. of the skin may peel and eventually the country are not just incon- Here are 10 cold-weather tips for turn black. Use warm (not hot) com- T venient; they can be incred- your pets: presses on the affected areas and ibly dangerous for our pets. Experts then seek medical care. say frostbite can set in in less than 15 anti-freeze can be fatal minutes, and animals are not exempt Anti-freeze is poisonous. Even a Cars can be death traps from this, despite their furry coats. lick or two on a quick walk can add It’s worth remembering that a cold Hypothermia is the most danger- up to distress for your dog. Keep an car can be just as deadly as a hot car HealtHy ous hazard when the weather gets eye out for any liquid on sidewalks for a dog. They can freeze to death in this cold. Signs of hypothermia in- and steer clear of it. Also, do not let a vehicle with no heat. Not only are living clude “violent shivering followed by your dogs roam freely where you they already at freezing temps, but Danielle Sullivan listlessness, a rectal temperature cannot monitor their activity. If there cars can act as a refrigerator, keep- below 95°F (35°C), weak pulse, leth- is any doubt that your dog may have ing all the coldness inside. argy, and coma.” It can become fatal ingested anti-freeze, take him to the very fast. vet immediately. Stay away from salt It goes without saying that every Be on the lookout for salt on side- dog and cat needs to be indoors dur- Pay extra attention walks and driveways, which can irri- ing cold temperatures like these. I to puppies tate and even burn your pup’s paws. would argue, however, that dogs and Puppies are more susceptible to Wipe their paws off with a paper cats need to be indoors during any the cold than dogs due to their ten- towel or warm cloth when you re- cold temperatures. If you are cold, der age. They will suffer from the turn from a walk. they are cold, simple as that. Out- harsh realities of the cold quicker and should not spend much time Check on outdoors in harsh weather condi- neighboring pets tions. In addition, they may have It’s imperative to remember that some issues potty training during if we see an animal left outside in cold spells. Understandably, puppies this weather, we must report it to may have more accidents in this the proper authorities ASAP. Dogs weather. left outside in cold temperatures suffer needlessly and can easily die. Cars and feral cats It is a form of abuse. We are the Cats are particularly vulnerable protectors of animals and need to to the cold and can freeze to death. be vigilant about their well being at They are also crafty and smart and all times. will do what they have to do to stay warm and alive. When left outside, Indoor comfort many cats seek to find warmth in car When indoors, try to let your dog hoods and engines, and can easily sleep in a warm spot. Ideally, every be killed when cars are turned on. dog should have a bed (or share Take a peek under your hood and yours) and not sleep on a hardwood tires before turning on your car. floor. Make sure to place the bed away from doors and drafts. leash and collar When walking puppies and dogs, More food make sure their collars are secure Dogs that are kept outside often and never let them off the leash. Get- need extra food in the winter months ting lost in sub-zero temps is deadly. to keep warm. If you must keep your Their scent trails are compromised dog outside for periods in the day- in the snow, and frostbite and hypo- time (not recommended), make sure thermia can set in quickly, leaving you are supplying them with extra them unable to find their way back calories all day long (and a shel- home. tered, cozy doghouse). And never, ever leave your dogs out at night! Frostbite Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, Frostbite most often occurs on the has worked as a writer and editor in the thin, exposed areas of a dog such as parenting world for more than 10 years. their ears, tail, scrotum, and paws. Sullivan also writes about pets and par- The skin may look blue or white, but enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find Sul- will appear red and inflamed when livan on her blogs, Just Write Mom and circulation comes back. The surface Some Puppy To Love.

52 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 HealtH 3$5.6/23(:,1'6257(55$&(%$<5,'*(&$552//*$5'(16 Pet safety in winter he frigid temperatures around doors is no place for pets. of the skin may peel and eventually the country are not just incon- Here are 10 cold-weather tips for turn black. Use warm (not hot) com- T venient; they can be incred- your pets: presses on the affected areas and ibly dangerous for our pets. Experts then seek medical care. say frostbite can set in in less than 15 anti-freeze can be fatal minutes, and animals are not exempt Anti-freeze is poisonous. Even a Cars can be death traps from this, despite their furry coats. lick or two on a quick walk can add It’s worth remembering that a cold Hypothermia is the most danger- up to distress for your dog. Keep an car can be just as deadly as a hot car HealtHy ous hazard when the weather gets eye out for any liquid on sidewalks for a dog. They can freeze to death in this cold. Signs of hypothermia in- and steer clear of it. Also, do not let a vehicle with no heat. Not only are living clude “violent shivering followed by your dogs roam freely where you they already at freezing temps, but Danielle Sullivan listlessness, a rectal temperature cannot monitor their activity. If there cars can act as a refrigerator, keep- below 95°F (35°C), weak pulse, leth- is any doubt that your dog may have ing all the coldness inside. argy, and coma.” It can become fatal ingested anti-freeze, take him to the very fast. vet immediately. Stay away from salt 23(1+286( It goes without saying that every Be on the lookout for salt on side- February 28 dog and cat needs to be indoors dur- Pay extra attention walks and driveways, which can irri- ing cold temperatures like these. I to puppies tate and even burn your pup’s paws. would argue, however, that dogs and Puppies are more susceptible to Wipe their paws off with a paper 339 8 Street cats need to be indoors during any the cold than dogs due to their ten- towel or warm cloth when you re- Just below 6 Ave cold temperatures. If you are cold, der age. They will suffer from the turn from a walk. they are cold, simple as that. Out- harsh realities of the cold quicker and should not spend much time Check on Presentations outdoors in harsh weather condi- neighboring pets 75$',7,21$/'$<&$03 1:00pm & 2:30pm tions. In addition, they may have It’s imperative to remember that Outdoor, fun, stimulating programs for campers some issues potty training during if we see an animal left outside in ages 3.5 to 14 in addition to specialty programs: cold spells. Understandably, puppies this weather, we must report it to may have more accidents in this the proper authorities ASAP. Dogs FEBRUARY MINI-CAMP weather. left outside in cold temperatures &,548(G·(7( suffer needlessly and can easily die. Acrobatics, circus skills, clowning and more Join us for fun day trips and Cars and feral cats It is a form of abuse. We are the Cats are particularly vulnerable protectors of animals and need to for campers entering grades Pre-K-5 wacky camp culture! to the cold and can freeze to death. be vigilant about their well being at For grades PK – 6 They are also crafty and smart and all times. 632576$&$'(0< will do what they have to do to stay warm and alive. When left outside, Indoor comfort Specializing in soccer skills February 16 - 20 many cats seek to find warmth in car When indoors, try to let your dog for campers entering grades 1 - 5 hoods and engines, and can easily sleep in a warm spot. Ideally, every be killed when cars are turned on. dog should have a bed (or share Take a peek under your hood and yours) and not sleep on a hardwood 21:+((/6 tires before turning on your car. floor. Make sure to place the bed Travel camp featuring daily and overnight trips away from doors and drafts. leash and collar for campers entering grades 6 - 8 When walking puppies and dogs, More food make sure their collars are secure Dogs that are kept outside often /($'(56+,3(;3(5,(1&( a Kids Orbit program and never let them off the leash. Get- need extra food in the winter months ting lost in sub-zero temps is deadly. to keep warm. If you must keep your for teens entering grades 9 - 10 Their scent trails are compromised dog outside for periods in the day- &ODVVHVLQ3DUN6ORSH&DUUROO*DUGHQV in the snow, and frostbite and hypo- time (not recommended), make sure Very flexible registration, extra long season and accomodating :LQGVRU7HUUDFH %URRNO\Q+HLJKWV thermia can set in quickly, leaving you are supplying them with extra hours, free morning transportation from most Brownstone them unable to find their way back calories all day long (and a shel- %URRNO\Q6RQLFV&RPSHWLWLYH7HDP home. tered, cozy doghouse). And never, Brooklyn neighborhoods, door to door transportation available ever leave your dogs out at night! for most other Brooklyn locations, air-conditioned buses $JHVWKURXJK Frostbite Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, Frostbite most often occurs on the has worked as a writer and editor in the thin, exposed areas of a dog such as parenting world for more than 10 years. @psdcbk 36'& their ears, tail, scrotum, and paws. Sullivan also writes about pets and par- The skin may look blue or white, but enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find Sul- will appear red and inflamed when livan on her blogs, Just Write Mom and parkslopedaycamp ZZZSDUNslopedayFDPSFRP circulation comes back. The surface Some Puppy To Love.

February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 53 Parenting When step-parents step into kids’ lives

Parents Dear Sharon, My ex-husband is living with a woman. She likes my kids and I’m glad for that, but I’m having some helPing uncomfortable feelings about it, too. He has partial custody and they stay there two nights a week. They like her a lot and somehow it makes me feel bad and jealous, and I get angry with myself for hav- Parents ing these feelings. What do you think? Sharon C. PeterS, Ma

Dear Mom, your question, moms and dads know parent dilemma. Having opportuni- Thanks for your honest question. that children benefit from positive ties to laugh or strategize about em- I think many people in your situa- relationships with any adult who en- barrassing or complicated topics can tion have the same understandable joys their company and cares about also greatly lighten almost any load. reactions. their well-being. The friend or part- It is also useful to remember that Single parents often are surprised ner of a parent can be a nice addition the mother-child bond is deep and by and get “angry” at themselves to any child’s life. Whatever is good unique, and there is no set of circum- when even a hint of insecurity or for children is ultimately good for stances that can change that reality. jealousy surfaces when a step-par- parents, but intellectual understand- I am sorry that you are feeling ent figure appears. ing by itself does not necessarily emotional pangs associated with Intellectually, as you mentioned in keep emotions at bay. this addition to your children’s lives, Talking to other single moms but I trust that over time your very Sharon C. Peters is a mother and director of Parents helping Parents, about jealousies and other aspects understandable response will fade. 669 President St., Brooklyn (718) 638–9444, www.PhPonline.org. of parenting after divorce can help I predict that in five years all kinds If you have a question about a challenge in your life (no issue is too big a great deal. Hearing similar stories of changes will happen in the life of or too small) e-mail it to Dear Sharon at [email protected]. can break through the isolation that your family that will put this phase in is often a big stumbling block for any a different perspective.

54 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 Parenting :H¶UHOHDUQLQJVWHSE\VWHSDW«« od Mont :H¶UHOHDUQLQJVWHSE\VWHSDW«« wo es d so When step-parents i r M i SchoolSchool Programs Programs 2-Year Old Toddler Tykes Class step into kids’ lives rr 2-Year Old Toddler Tykes Class rr 3-Year 3-Year Old Old Little Little Learners Learners Class Class r 4-Year 4-Year Old Old Preschool Preschool Pals Pals Class Class Parents Dear Sharon, r My ex-husband is living with a woman. She likes my kids and I’m glad for that, but I’m having some OPEN HOUSE helPing uncomfortable feelings about it, too. He has partial custody and they stay there two nights a week. AfAfterter SchoolSchool They like her a lot and somehow it makes me feel bad and jealous, and I get angry with myself for hav- Programs FOR SUMMER & FALL Parents ing these feelings. What do you think? Programs 2015 ENROLLMENT th th KindergartenKindergarten through through 5 5 grade grade Sharon C. PeterS, Ma Wed., February 4, 2015 Pre-School & Kindergarten 6:30pm to 8:30pm for children born in 2013 only Summer Program FullFull And And Half Half Da Dayy Programs Available Wed., March 4, 2015 Transportation Available Programs Available 6:30pm to 8:30pm School Session: September – June 2825 Bedford Avenue • 253-3242 School Session: September – June for children born all ages at Glenwood Road 245 86th86th Street Street Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY | |718-630-1000 718-630-1000 | steppingstones86.com | steppingstones86.com www.midwoodmontesssori.com [email protected]@aol.com credit cards not accepted credit cards not accepted

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February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 55 HEALTHY EATING Playing with food Study reveals benefits to toddlers’ messy eating

organ Delack was at her wit’s end when her daugh- M ter was 1. “Almost every time I put her in the highchair to feed her, she would GOOD SENSE throw her food on the floor,” she says. “She was trying to play with me EATING and get my attention. She knew she’d CHRISTINE M. PALUMBO, RD get a response.” Whether your child is throwing food or making a spectacular mess with it, it’s difficult to see a good result. After all, this mess-making is creating more work for you! Believe it or not, there is a silver lining in this developmental stage. According to a study published in the journal Developmental Science, the messier a toddler gets while eating, the more he’s learning. And eating in a highchair is the best place for that learning. at a table. The researchers offered tically explored the foods by poking, The study explored how well the toddlers foods such as pudding, throwing, and picking them up were 16-month-olds learned the names applesauce, juice, and soup, but gave more likely to correctly identify them of non-solid foods and other objects them made-up names. when the researchers put foods out while seated either in a highchair or The toddlers who most enthusias- in different sizes or shapes. And the tots seated in highchairs were better at correctly identify- ing the objects compared to those Swedish pea soup seated at tables. Because the foods vary in shape and size, the context in ACTIVE PREPARATION TIME: Seven 1 tsp. low-sodium herbal seasoning which the child touches it matters. minutes blend “It turns out that being in a TOTAL PREPARATION TIME: One 1 bay leaf highchair makes it more likely hour 30 minutes to two hours (not 1 tsp. marjoram you’ll get messy, because kids including soaking) 1 tsp. thyme know they can get messy there,” says lead author Lar- SERVINGS: Eight servings (almost 1 DIRECTIONS: Cover the dried yellow issa Samuelson. cup each) peas with water and soak overnight. So the next time your lit- Pea soup dates back to ancient Drain the peas and place them in a large heavy pot. Add the remain- tle one smears mashed peas all Roman times, when it was a nutri- ing ingredients, stir well, cover with over, reframe it as a “learning ex- tious, peasant food staple, but it a lid, and bring to a boil over high perience.” eventually became one of the time- heat. Reduce the heat to medium and “The study shows the cascading honored foods of Sweden. Made with simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring influence that the context of every- yellow peas, this simple soup is pre- occasionally, until the peas are ten- day activities — such as mealtimes pared with sweet, zesty mustard. der. Add water as needed to replace for 4 to 6 hours on high or 8 to 10 — has on children’s exploration, at- INGREDIENTS: moisture lost to evaporation. Remove hours on low. tention, and word learning,” wrote the bay leaf before serving. the authors. “When young children 1 pound (454 g) dried yellow peas NUTRITION FACTS: 203 calories, 14 g Traditional Swedish pea soup uses messily eat and explore food at each 6 cups water protein, 36 g carbohydrate, 1 g fat, 0 g whole yellow peas (not split). If you meal, they are learning both about 1 medium onion, diced saturated fat, 15 g fiber, 5 g sugar, 59 are unable to find whole yellow peas, mg sodium, 28% DV thiamine, 39% individual foods and also about non- 1 tbsp. reduced sodium vegetable substitute split yellow peas, but reduce DV folate, 10% DV calcium, 16% DV solid substances more generally.” broth base the cooking time by about 30 minutes. iron, 17% DV magnesium, 16% DV Christine Palumbo is a Naperville-reg- 1 tbsp. prepared mustard (e.g., To make this in a slow cooker, soak potassium, 12% DV zinc istered dietitian nutritionist. Follow her Swedish, whole grain, or Dijon) and drain the peas, then combine Used with permission by Sharon Palmer, RDN, on Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook at ½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper with the other ingredients and cook author of the book, Plant-Powered for Life. Christine Palumbo Nutrition, or Chris@ ChristinePalumbo.com.

56 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 57 books Perfect-for-kids nonfiction ave you ever wanted to do always watched out for one another. something big — but you When one lacked, the others shared, H didn’t know how? and that made her proud. It might have been a small action, But the Klan was another matter, and it might have been something and every black person in Bumblebee great, but never giving up was the knew it. Even Stella’s teacher, Mrs. way to go. In the new book “Stella Grayson, understood the seriousness by Starlight” by Sharon M. Draper, of what was happening and she tried for instance, a young girl wanted to to keep her students calm and safe become a writer. Her daddy wanted by distracting them with writing and characters. The book to vote. with stories. Stella loved stories, and Those characters are sec- When Stella Mills saw the sparks she loved writing but she didn’t think ond on the list: I loved Stella! She’s worm from across Kilkenny Pond that night she was any good at either of them. sunny and smart, and her determina- Terri Schlichenmeyer in 1932, she knew there was nothing That would change, though, when tion will make it easy for your child good about the nine hooded men her friend, Tony, told her to write to want to know what happens to her surrounding it. Quickly she and her what she knew — and so Stella did. and her family. brother ran to wake their parents She wrote about the Klan and their I also liked the way Draper lends because they knew that everybody dragons; about airplanes and books child-friendly, not-too-detailed, not- in their neighborhood was in danger and grown men making boys bleed. too-scary action in this chapter when the Klan was about. She wrote about gifts, her father’s rea- book, and the anti-racism theme re- Normally life in Bumblebee, North son for celebration, and the courage it ally struck me as timely. Carolina, was a safe place for Stella took to stand up for your rights. And then there’s the … well, I and her friends. Yes, it was true Yep, I loved “Stella by Starlight,” could go on and on, but let’s just say that there were places they couldn’t and there are many reasons why. that this is the perfect book for a 7-to- go because they weren’t white and Its authenticity is at the top of the 12-year-old reader who enjoys a good no, their blacks-only school wasn’t list. Author Sharon M. Draper gives historical novel. For that kid, “Stella nearly as nice as the whites-only this story a historical basis, yet she by Starlight” is a book she’ll want. school, but Stella loved her school- keeps it fictional so young readers “Stella by Starlight” by Sharon M. mates and neighbors because they can understand and identify with the Draper [336 pages, 2015, $16.99]. Action, adventure, history, & pooches our dog is always finding couldn’t look at the light, but when your child will want you to dish up. things to chew on. he finally opened his eyes, he was in It’s easy to get caught up in this Y Sometimes, he even asks a dusty, loud place with big animals, story because Messner makes her you to throw those things for him, funny smells — and a woman’s frantic characters so likeable and the scenes just so he can find them again. voice. Someone was lost, and Ranger so authentic. Kids, I think, will like Normally that leads to a fun heard a familiar word: “Find!” the flow between then and now, and game. But what if he found some- Sam Abbott knew he was going to I think they’ll be clinging to the edges thing that was important? What miss his family. He hated leaving the of their seats once they get to the big if, as in the new book “Ranger farm, too, but his pa made the deci- finale. Be sure, too, that they read the in Time: Rescue on the Oregon sion to move. Now there was a long author’s note at the back. It’s a nice Trail” by Kate Messner, his dis- trip ahead of them: it would take wrap-up. covery could save a life? weeks and weeks to get to Oregon by All together, this book is a great Squirrels were the main reason foot and by wagon train. Leaving ev- introduction to a new hero that 7-to- Ranger the golden retriever flunked erything behind would make it seem 10-year-olds will look forward to see- out of Rescue Dog training. He was even longer. ing again. If your child is ready for really good at finding people with his And now there was this dog tag- a fantasy-history-non-fiction-based nose, but Ranger just couldn’t stop ging along, but Sam didn’t mind. chapter book, then “Ranger in Time: chasing squirrels. The dog had found Sam’s little sister Rescue on the Oregon Trail” is the Luke, Ranger’s boy, knew that and when she wandered off. He warned one to find. he loved Ranger just the same. Ranger the family when a herd of buffalo “Ranger in Time: Rescue on the was a good dog, he just didn’t pay at- stampeded. He was a good dog but Oregon Trail,” by Kate Messner [144 tention — and sometimes, neither did where did in the world — or out of pages, 2015, $17.99 hardcover, 5.99 pa- Luke. Luke didn’t notice that when it — did that dog come from? perback]. Ranger was digging in the dirt, he’d Action, adventure, history, and Terri Schlichenmeyer has been read- found a metal box. And therefore, pooches. If this sounds like the per- ing since she was 3 years old, and Luke didn’t see Ranger disappear. fect recipe for a new chapter book she never goes anywhere without a The box hummed and a white light series, then “Ranger in Time: Rescue book. She lives on a hill with two dogs came from the edges of it. 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February 2015 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 59 teens Surviving the slump The struggle to focus plagues many sophomores

eturning to Williams College over and that you are growing up. My freshman year, I loaded up for my sophomore year, I was Classes, grades, and your future ca- on “resume-building” activities that R extremely excited and pre- reer are now much closer and every- were competitive and taxing. Return- pared to brave another academic se- thing feels more real. You might have ing sophomore year, I found that mester at my home-away-from-home. gotten away with going to a party these clubs and teams did not make A letter After a long summer of internships instead of finishing an assignment as me happy. I was happier figure skat- and vacation, I was ready to get back a freshman, but your decisions now ing and singing a cappella. These from college on campus. Gone were the butter- have more apparent consequences. activities will probably do little to AglAiA Ho flies in my stomach that plagued me Having experienced this “slump,” improve my credentials for my future freshman year. I was familiar with I attest that it can be a challenge (I have no intention of being a profes- the campus, knew the faculty, and to overcome. Getting through my sional figure skater or a musician), had so many great friends waiting to first semester of my sophomore year but these were the groups I needed do things together. was not smooth sailing. I had phases more in my life. The activities we did, But despite the initial buzz of of ups and downs. However, what and the people who did them with me catching up with old friends, start- helped me persevere through this always managed to brighten my day ing brand-new classes, and jumping difficult time was focusing on the big- and bring a smile to my face. back into extracurricular activities, I ger picture and, rather than dwelling Most importantly, do not be afraid started to feel a little down. on my discomfort, finding ways to to get help and talk to others about I was not homesick, but my brighten each day. your situation. I found that the more classes began to go by in a blur, The slump can interfere with your I opened up about my sophomore some extracurricular activities that schoolwork. When you are constantly slump, the quicker I realized that this used to be fun were now a chore, and preoccupied, it can become difficult was a universal problem for all my some friendships had become dis- to focus. Even though you are in sophomore friends. Other students tant. Worst of all, a mounting pres- the classroom when your professor could easily relate to the feelings and sure swept over me, making getting is lecturing, your mind is lingering hardships I was coping with, and through each day rather difficult. somewhere else. I always found it they offered their own advice and It was not quite a depression, but hard to shake the stress of the most outlook on the matter. Seeking out a “sophomore slump,” a common recent exam or paper from my mind. support from psychological services, case of the blues that plagues some Thus, despite my efforts to pay at- chaplains, and deans at your school second-year college students when tention in class, my mind was racing is also a great idea. I paid a couple their experience fails to live up to around concerned about my perfor- of visits to psych services to discuss their expectations. mance on a test or how I was going to my issues and also spoke to a dean The “slump” emerges from finish my 10-page paper. about my concerns. A lot of times, the harsh reality that After half of a semester fighting the school can ease your burden the “summer camp” internal mental battles, I realized that by providing some academic accom- period of freshman this was not productive. Although I modation to help you handle your year is was stressed, there was nothing I schoolwork and your emotions. could do to change that situation. Lastly, like any other issues and On top of that, by worrying about rough patches you will experience it, I was not absorbing the material in life, know that none of these are that was being presented to me. I permanent. Realizing that what you have learned that you need to focus feel right now will not be what you on the present, especially when you feel forever does provide comfort. are carrying a lot of weight. What- Look at the bigger picture. College, ever problem you have now will most especially your sophomore year, is likely be a problem after your class is only a small slice of what you will over, so push it aside and focus on the experience in your life. Even if life task at hand. is less than ideal, your situation will Ensuring that your schoolwork change. What helps, nevertheless, does not slip because of your emo- is if you take steps to initiate the tional state is important, but it is change and make your life as enjoy- equally crucial you find a way to im- able as you can, even when you are prove your mood. Realize that you singing the blues. might not be the same person you Aglaia Ho is a sophomore at Williams were last year. The activities that College and a native New Yorker. She is gave you joy as a freshman may not also the author of “Aglaia’s New York,” be what you need as a sophomore. her blog at aglaiaho.weebly.com.

60 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 61 Parenting Save-at-home mom eciding to stay at home as a Shopping Cook at home more mom is a huge undertaking, Plan to spend some time plan- When I was working full-time, D and not one taken lightly. ning to shop. Every time I plan out there were many nights where I’d Many are just not able to accom- exactly what I will purchase and get home late and we’d order out. plish it financially, and not every- do my homework by staking out Huge money eater! By planning a one wants to, but if you are already the best deals at the stores, I save week’s worth of dinner on Sunday a stay-at-home mom or think you money. You can learn a lot of stuff night (while perusing your super- might want to be and may possi- just browsing circulars and web- market circular and tailoring the Just write bly be able to swing it financially, sites. For example, did you know dishes around the sales), you will consider that there are quite a few that Toys ’R’ Us has a “price match save. mom ways to save money. guarantee” that not only says if you Small grocery savings tips? Buy Danielle Sullivan In my career, I have been a full- find an item cheaper at another a long-term traveling water bottle time worker, part-timer, and free- store, it will match that price, but for your child, instead of weekly lancer, and I’ve also been a stay-at- also if you find it cheaper on Toys- juice packs for the lunchbox, and home mom, too. RUs.com or BabiesRUs.com, it will refill at night. When it comes to Here are some of my tips to help also match. buying meat, choose the thicker you save money: cut pieces, and slice and dice at think ahead home. Thinner cuts cost more. Last-minute shopping equals paying more nearly every single extra income time. When I was working full-time, If you have the time to take on I lost a lot of money that way. Now additional tasks and are looking that I freelance, I have more time to for some extra income, chat it up pick and choose and plan ahead for at your child’s school. Often, work- every holiday and occasion. It also ing moms are looking for someone helps to get those reward store local to pick up their kids and cards, and it’s only an extra five watch them for a few hours each minutes to fill out the application day. If you like to write or are good for them. The next time you visit at technology, a quick daily perusal that store, you’ll already have the of Mediabistro.com just might re- card and be on your way to earning sult in a gig here and there. There reward points. are many of these out there now, Another tip? If you buy a blouse, especially in blogging and social shirt or bag you love, ask yourself media. if anyone on your birthday or holiday gift list would also like it. Then Consider the buy another at the sale price. Even instant savings if the birthday is months away, you Even if you don’t gain an extra save money. When shopping online, income, just think about all the before you place any order, Google money you can save from the daily the word “coupon” and then “code” keep up while working. From day- along with store’s name. Eight out care costs, clothing, and dry clean- of 10 times, I’ll find a code that al- ing to lunches, dinners, and coffees lows free shipping or a percentage out (not to mention guilt gifts for off my order. the kids), you may be saving more than you think. Some moms report groceries 101 that when they factor in the costs Supermarkets these days can it takes to work outside the home, eat your money like no other type they almost negate the costs of of store. When that weekly circu- staying home. And that’s where the lar comes to your door, mark off above supermarket and shopping what is on sale and stock up. Note tips come in handy! the fine print, however, because Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, sometimes, it will say you must buy has worked as a writer and editor in three, or four, or five of the items the parenting world for more than to get the deal. Buy things you’ll 10 years. Sullivan also writes about always need in bulk, but if you only pets and parenting for Disney’s Bab- need one of that item over the next ble.com. Find Sullivan on her blogs, six months, it probably isn’t a good Just Write Mom and Some Puppy To deal for you. Love.

62 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 63 Advice

cushion the blow of a tax bill arising from a small business ownership interest. An irrevocable life insurance The facts of trust can be used as a vehicle to hold insurance policies so that the death proceeds are payable to the trust and pass to the trust beneficiaries free of life insurance estate tax. Why would I need life insurance insurance is that it is not “tax free.” How does an and how should I structure it? Income generated by whole-life poli- irrevocable life cies are income tax free but they are insurance trust work? mong the common purposes not estate-tax free. The proceeds of a You gift money to the trust. Usu- Ask An of life insurance are: policy will be calculated as part of your ally, you transfer enough money to Attorney A • To provide your loved gross taxable estate for the purpose of cover the annual premium. In order ones with immediate liquidity to pay calculating the applicable estate tax. to avoid paying gift taxes on the gift Alison Arden Besunder, estate taxes and funeral expenses An irrevocable life insurance trust (or decreasing your available tax ex- esq. until your estate is administered can help exclude life insurance from emption at death), the trust usually through probate or a trust. This is your gross taxable estate and thereby gives the trust beneficiaries an imme- especially helpful where an estate from estate taxes. It is a form of irre- diate right to withdraw the gift contri- consists primarily of illiquid assets vocable trust that owns (and con- bution (usually a short window like 30 such as real property. trols) and is the beneficiary of your days). This is known as a “Crummey • To equalize beneficiaries who life insurance policies. It is irrevo- power” for the court decision that have received other assets (say, the cable, which means that it cannot be sanctioned it permissible for render- family business), or to leave dispro- changed or amended once created ing the transfer qualified for the an- portionate assets to beneficiaries if (although the grantor can always nual gift tax exclusion ($14,000 in that is your intention. stop making gifts to the trust to pay 2014). Although not expressly stated • To buy out a business partner, so the premiums). Existing policies are in the trust itself, the beneficiaries that you need not remain in business transferred to the trust, or the trust usually understand that they will ulti- with your partner’s spouse when buys new policies on the grantor’s mately receive more by not exercising your partner dies. life. The trust is named beneficiary of their withdrawal right and leaving the • To pay any outstanding mort- the policy, and the terms of the trust gift inside the trust to purchase the gages or maintain properties until dictate who receives the proceeds of life insurance. other assets can be liquidated. the policy and when. The trustee of the trust then pur- • To ensure that your beneficiaries For owners of small businesses, life chases life insurance on your life (de- have funds available to pay other po- insurance can be a crucial part of a pending upon how the trust is set up, tential future tax liabilities, such as solid estate plan. For many business the trust may purchase insurance estate, annual estate income or capi- owners, their net worth is inextri- on the joint lives of you and your tal gains taxes. cably intertwined with the business spouse). When you die, the trust re- A common misconception about life itself, and the business is an illiquid ceives the insurance proceeds from asset that cannot be readily sold. The the life insurance company. Internal Revenue Service is not sym- The irrevocable life insurance trust pathetic. It demands that estate taxes has many other benefits depending Grantor be paid in cash within nine months of on the client’s objectives, such as death, even if you file for an extension ensuring preservation of principal (You) to file the taxes. Although there is a against creditors, remarriage of your provision in the tax code for apply- spouse or of children-beneficiaries, Gifts of money ing for an “installment plan,” it is not or from the beneficiaries themselves a request that is readily granted and in the case of a spendthrift or where the government charges interest on substance abuse is an issue. It can the installments. Often the survivors help ensure that capital will remain of business owners must use the little in the trust for future generations if Purchase insurance cash or liquid investments that were desired. A forced sale of other assets and pay premiums left to them — and on which they under duress or in bad market condi- Insurance expected to depend to satisfy daily tions can also be avoided or the im- ILIt needs — to pay the estate taxes and pact softened. In short, the irrevoca- companY Insurance proceeds expenses of administrating the estate. ble life insurance trust is an excellent paid to trust Some are forced to sell the business vehicle for ensuring your financial in a fire sale under duress to raise legacy, regardless of your net worth the funds. Life insurance can help or anticipation of estate taxes.

Disclaimer: This column is provided by the Law Offices of Alison Arden Besunder P.C. and New York Parenting Media as a public service to inform readers of legal issues. It is not intended to advise. Since legal issues vary with an individual’s situation and needs, one should consult with an attorney. It is impossible to cover all aspects of the law in an article. Please be advised that the laws are constantly changing. The content in this article reflects the current law. Nothing contained in this article is intended as advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and the firm. Individual consultation with an attorney is required to determine the specific facts and circumstances of any particular situation. A written retainer agreement between you and the firm is required before any attorney-client relationship may be created. Circular 230 Disclosure Notice: To ensure compliance with Treasury Department rules governing tax practice, we inform you that any advice contained herein (including in any attachment) (1) was not written and is not intended to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty that may be imposed on the taxpayer, and (2) may not be used in connection with promoting, marketing or recommending to another person any transaction or matter addressed herein. 64 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 2014-15 Private/Independent School Guide

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February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 67 a part of our family. I recommend “Paddington” for kids ages 8 to 16. However, it’s great for the whole family and anyone who loves bears. It’s rated PG, but there isn’t anything that really need to look out for. I give it 5 out of 5 stars. It’s a great film that makes you feel good. — Brianna B., age 15 See her video review at: http://youtu. be/wo4A3uyYKyc ... rom the producers of the Harry Potter franchise comes F another children’s film that many families will love for its humor, storyline, special effects and of course — the bear! “Paddington” will be loved by families everywhere. This movie has a nice core expects, but finds a family that’s will- of humor with an ing to take him in and look after him intriguing story Twists & turns with for just a little while. This is when that is intense, everyone’s adventure begins. but lighthearted Paddington is so outgoing and too. Breathtak- adorable. You can’t help but love this ing special ef- bear. He has an innocent way about fects, animation, and a strong feel of a cuddly him, but still is a little mischievous adventure round out the show. and gets into trouble. His visual ef- The story starts when a very fects and fur looks very real and intelligent family of bears is sadly life-like. separated. An earthquake happens Nicole Kidman’s character (Milli- and the aunt must send her young character cent) is very determined to add Pad- nephew to London for a better home. dington to her collection of stuffed After arriving in London, this young KIDS FIRST! FIlm CRITIC animals. She will stop at nothing to bear is taken in by a family but imme- Kid movie get him. She’s fierce, frightening, and diately starts running into challenges From the producers of the Harry intimidating. I love the story line, of fitting in to the human world. critics review Potter series comes this 21st-Century humor, and definitely the action. I This film is wonderful. I love the version of “Paddington,” with all the liked that the climax of this film is cast — lots of talented and wonderful ‘Paddington’ charm that this classic character de- very unpredictable and shocks the people. Ben Whishaw plays the voice serves. The story line follows a young audience. of Paddington and is excellent at Peruvian bear who travels to London My favorite character would have making his character seem adorable in search of a home. Finding himself to be Paddington. He truly thinks and innocent, yet smart and caring lost and alone at Paddington Station, of the wellbeing of others and his at the same time. The humor is off- he meets the kindly Brown family, who curiosity is adorable. He reminds the-charts amazing and the camera offer him a temporary haven. “Pad- you of a child learning new things. angles and shots are one-of-a-kind. dington” is in theaters starting Jan. 16. A scene that I would call my favorite Some shots I could not get over and is when Paddington tries to return had to watch again and again. addington” is a great a man’s wallet, after it drops out of My favorite scene is when Pad- adventure, with lots of his pocket while he’s walking out of dington tries to say his name to Mr. “P twists and turns. This an antique shop. Paddington chases Brown, who is kind of the father of film is playful, comedic, enjoyable, him, trying to get the wallet to him. the family. But, Paddington says it and definitely a great film for friends Finally, he catches up with the man in bear language. When Mr. Brown and family. by falling on him from the air. When tries to repeat it, Paddington looks Paddington (voiced by Ben he falls on the man they both tumble horrified and says, “How rude!” It is Whishaw) is a down and about 30 wallets fall out of a funny and lighthearted scene and rare breed of the man’s coat. Paddington catches a kind of sets the right mood for this bear that travels pickpocket and ends up in the paper funny film. all alone to Lon- on his first day in London. It’s a very This film is definitely meant for don. He wants to comical scene that makes the audi- kids, but adults will enjoy it as well. find a home after ence crack up. I recommend it for ages 8 to 18 and his is destroyed. One of the messages of this film give it 5 out of 5 stars. While there, he is that families are not just made up Gerry O., age 12 discovers that by the people who are related to us, See his video review here: http:// it’s not what he but friends and even animals can be youtu.be/ngnl97CLjj4

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Hop aboard for all types of fun • Get Kinetic on Jan. 31, and Feb. cables, and a realistic deck. The at the New York Transit Museum 1, 7 and 8 at 1:30 pm follows in the workshop is also offered during All aboard throughout February. Rube Goldberg tradition and allows mid-winter break from Feb. 17, 18, Children of all ages can learn children 6 and older to assemble 19, and 20 at various times. about one of the greatest transit wacky and winding machines. • The museum is hosting Elec- for fun! system in the world in a variety of • On Feb. 8 the museum part- tricity Life and Curve City Lab workshops and programs: ners with Extreme Kids and Crew during midwinter break at various • Budding engineers 10 and for another special day for families times during the day for children older can operate a subway car with special-needs children. The of all ages. simulator and travel the virtual museum is open from 10 am to 1 All events are free with mu- miles of track every Saturday from pm and offers fun for everyone. seum admission. For times and 2 to 4 pm. • On Valentine’s Day weekend additional information visit our • Younger train buffs 2 to 5 years (Feb. 14 and 15) as well as Feb. 21 calendar. old can stop by the Motion Lab on and 22 at 1:30 pm, children 5 and New York Transit Museum [Boerum Jan. 31, and Feb. 1, 7, and 8 from older learn about the Verrazano Place and Schermerhorn Street in 11:30 am to noon to unlock the Bridge in Very, Very, Verrazano, Brooklyn Heights; (718) 694–1600; mysteries of motion. and build a model with towers, www.mta.info/mta/museum]

70 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar and to use their imaginations to help Submit a listing create scenarios to be performed. City Squirrels: Fort Greene Park This calendar is dedicated to Visitor Center, enter park at Myrtle bringing our readers the most Avenue and Washington Park; (718) comprehensive list of events in 722–3218; 1 pm; Free. your area. But to do so, we need your help! Learn all about the urban variety. Send your listing request to To the Moon: Brooklyn Children’s brooklyn[email protected] Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. — and we’ll take care of the rest. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; Please e-mail requests more www.brooklynkids.org; 1:30 pm; Free than three weeks prior to the with museum admission. event to ensure we have enough Children discover why some tra- time to get it in. And best of all, it’s FREE! ditions are based on the moon and touch a real rock from outer space. Get Kinetic: 1:30 pm. New York Transit Museum. See Saturday, Jan. Sat, Jan. 31 31. In Brooklyn “Salute to Broadway”: Regina Photo by Gary Hodges Quilting Kids: Brooklyn Children’s Opera, 5902 Sixth Avenue at 60th Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Street; (718) 259–2772; www.regi- Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; naopera.org; 3 pm; $12 ($5 teens; www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am; Moving right along! children free). Free with museum admission. Children travel From Here to sail positions. This two-hour concert features Discover the art of quilts, share sto- show-stopping Broadway tunes. ries, and decorate a quilt square to There at the Brooklyn Children’s From Here to There consists of take home. Museum from Feb. 6 through May 12 fun, interactive exhibits, and is Hawaiian Dance Class: Brooklyn 10. divided into three main catego- Botanic Garden, 1000 Washington Motion lab: New York Transit Mu- Ave., at Eastern Parkway; (718) 623– seum, Boerum Place at Schermerhorn Lift, launch, and levitate as ries: transportation by land, sea, Street; (718) 694–1600; www.mta. you experiment with hands-on and air. 7220; www.bbg.org; 3:30–4:30 pm; info/mta/museum; 11:30 am to noon; exhibits that make learning about From Here to There, daily, Free with Garden admission. Free with museum admission. gravity, friction, and the laws of Tuesday through Sunday from 10 Teens are transported to a south Pa- Unlock the mysteries of motion. motion fun. Ride a hovercraft am to 5 pm. Free with museum cific paradise and learn traditional hula Young engineers experiment with to experience how air pressure admission of $9. and Tahitian ori dances with Spoke the ramps and tracks, wings and wheels, works, adjust wind speed to form Brooklyn Children’s Museum [145 Hub instructor and Polynesian cultural ambassador Kaina Quenga. and things that glide and things that fabric into an airfoil, and float Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Avenue slide. Suitable for children 2 to 5 years your sailboat to experiment with in Crown Heights, (718) 735–4400; Ecumenical Church Service: St. old. the effect of wind, rudder, and www.brooklynkids.org] Theresa of Lisieux, 1281 Troy Ave; 4 Subway Safari: New York Transit pm; Free. Museum, Boerum Place at Schermer- Grenada’s 41st Anniversary Commit- horn Street; (718) 694–1600; www. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am tee of Independence in NY welcomes mta.info/mta/museum; 11:30 am– www.brooklynkids.org; 1:30 pm; Free and 2:30 pm; Free with museum all to a church service celebrating Gre- noon; Free with museum admission. with museum admission. admission. nada’s 41st Independence. The Sleepy Subway covers the many Children discover why some tra- Discover the art of using quilts to animals that sleep underground in ditions are based on the moon and share stories and symbols. Learn the the winter to keep warm. Games and Wed, Feb. 4 touch a real rock from outer space. meanings of some popular West Afri- hands-on activities. In Brooklyn Get Kinetic: New York Transit Mu- can “adinkra” symbols, then decorate Jazz 4 Kids: Brooklyn Public Library’s seum, Boerum Place at Schermerhorn a quilt square to hang at home. “Rhythm Stories”: Kumble The- Central branch, Flatbush Ave. at East- ater at Long Island University, DeKalb Street; (718) 694–1600; www.mta. “A Fine Dessert”: powerHouse on ern Parkway in Grand Army Plaza; and Flatbush avenues; (718) 488– info/mta/museum; 1:30 pm; Free with 8th, 1111 Eighth Ave. between 11th (718) 230–2100; www.brooklynpub- 1624; www.brooklyn.liu.edu/kumble- museum admission. and 12th streets; (718) 666–3049; liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. Teams plan and construct wacky, theater; 10 am and 12:30 pm; $25. jsp?branchpageid=265; 1 pm; Free. www.powerhousearena.com; 11:30 winding machines. For children 6 years am–12:30 pm; Free. Khadijah never realized all the things Vocalist and educator Lauren and older. Authors Emily Jenkins and Sophie she could discover at her new school Hooker introduces kids to Cab Cal- just be studying history. Join her and loway, Duke Ellington, Mongo Santa Blackall introduce their newest chil- Sun, Feb. 1 dren’s book. RSVP requested. classmates on their journey and expe- Maria, and Sonny Rollins. rience the dance, song, and poetry of The American Revolution: Fort In Brooklyn Motion lab: 11:30 am – noon. New African-American heritage. Greene Park Visitor Center, enter park Winter Bird Stroll: Brooklyn Bo- York Transit Museum. See Saturday, Jan. 31. at Myrtle Avenue and Washington tanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave., Thurs, Feb. 5 Park; (718) 722–3218; 1 pm; Free. at Eastern Parkway; (718) 623–7220; TheatreSports: Gallery Players, 199 Urban rangers lead a discussion www.bbg.org; 10 am; Free with Gar- 14th St. between Fourth and Fifth av- In Brooklyn on the history of New York from the den admission. enues; (212) 352–3101; www.gallery- “Rhythm Stories”: 10 am and and Revolutionary War to the post-colonial Spot birds around the park. players.com; Noon; $10. 12:30 pm. Kumble Theater at Long period. Quilting kids: Brooklyn Children’s TheatreSports with the Gallery Play- Island University. See Wednesday, To the Moon: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. ers offers an opportunity for kids to Feb. 4. Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; watch and participate in live theater, Continued on page 72 February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 71 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 71 Human Lard Dog & The Band of Shy 421–2021; 1 pm; Free. world. Fri, Feb. 6 present “Life’s A Real Dream,” an in- Children learn about the weather To the Moon: 1:30 pm. Brooklyn teractive audio-visual performance for and our changing climate. Children’s Museum. See Sunday, Feb. In Brooklyn all ages. To the Moon: 1:30 pm. Brooklyn 1. “Rhythm Stories”: 10 am, 12:30 To the Moon: 1:30 pm. Brooklyn Children’s Museum. See Sunday, Feb. Chinese New Year: Brooklyn Chil- pm and 7:30 pm. Kumble Theater at Children’s Museum. See Sunday, Feb. 1. dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at Long Island University. See Wednes- 1. day, Feb. 4. Get Kinetic: 1:30 pm. New York St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; Get Kinetic: 1:30 pm. New York Transit Museum. See Saturday, Jan. www.brooklynkids.org; 2 pm; Free Transit Museum. See Saturday, Jan. 31. with museum admission. Sat, Feb. 7 31. Puppetry in Practice presents this celebration with a telling of the story In Brooklyn Chanting: Carmine Carro Commu- Tues, Feb. 10 about the Chinese zodiac told with nity Center, 3000 Fillmore Ave. at E. BAMKids Film Festival: BAM Rose Shadow Puppets. A Dragon Parade 30th Street; 2 pm; Free. In Brooklyn Cinemas, 30 Lafayette Ave. between follows. Lafayatte Avenue and Hanson Place; All ages are invited to bring their Music greats: Barnes and Noble, (718) 636–4100; www.bam.org; 10 own instrument and play along, dance, 267 Seventh Ave. at Sixth Street; (718) I Love You Just Like This: Barnes am – 4:30 pm; $10 (13 and under; $14 play, sing or listen. 832–9066; www.barnesandnoble. and Noble, 267 Seventh Ave. at Sixth com; Noon; Free. Street; (718) 832–9066; www.barne- adults and $9 for members). Janice Marie Robinson: Brooklyn Children join in for a special story- sandnoble.com; 2 pm; Free. Bringing the best in short features Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. and animation from around the globe. time in honor of Black History Month. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; special storytime. Plus magic shows, stop-motion activi- www.brooklynkids.org; 2 pm; Free “Abraham and Mary Lincoln – ties, face painting, and more. with museum admission. A Conversation”: Parish House, Train Operator school: 2–4 pm. Winter tree ID hike: Prospect Park Cultural Connection presents a live New Utrecht Reformed Church, 18th New York Transit Museum. See Satur- Audubon Center, Enter park at Lin- performance — “Melodic Magic.” This Ave. at 84th Street; (718) 256–7173; day, Feb. 7. 7:30 pm; Free. coln Road and Ocean Avenue; (718) interactive event entertains children of 3, 2, 1, Happy Chinese New 287–3400; www.prospectpark.org/ all ages. This presentation offers a unique Year: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, perspective at looking at our 16th audubon; 11 am; Free. Train Operator school: New York 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Av- Rangers lead a hike through the president’s career and presidency. Rob- enue; (718) 735–4400; www.brook- Transit Museum, Boerum Place at ert Costello as Honest Abe and Cheryl park. Recommended for older children Schermerhorn Street; (718) 694–1600; lynkids.org; 2:30 pm; Free with mu- because of light hiking. Mustachio as Mary Todd tell a whole seum admission. www.mta.info/mta/museum; 2–4 pm; different story. “Rabbit Gets Ready”: Barnes Free with museum admission. Children 5 and younger celebrate and Noble, 267 Seventh Ave. at Sixth Children 10 and older take control the holiday and then create a New Street; (718) 832–9066; www.barne- over a virtual subway car and gravel up Wed, Feb. 11 Year’s craft to take home. sandnoble.com; 11 am; Free. and down the miles of track. Limited In Brooklyn capacity. Ready Rabbit knows he should get Hot Feet: Kumble Theater at Long Sun, Feb. 15 up, but there are so many more inter- Island University, DeKalb and Flatbush In Brooklyn esting things to do. Sun, Feb. 8 avenues; (718) 488–1624; www. The Year of the Sheep: 12:30 pm. Lloyd H Miller: Brooklyn Historical In Brooklyn brooklyn.liu.edu/kumbletheater; 10 Brooklyn Children’s Museum. See Sat- Society, 128 Pierrepont St. at Clinton am and noon; $8. urday, Feb. 14. Street; (718) 222–4111; www.brook- Special day for special kids: The paper Bag Players premier their lynhistory.org; 11 am; Free. New York Transit Museum, Boerum new show that will have you singing, Animal tracking: Salt Marsh Na- Place at Schermerhorn Street; (718) Children join in for a sing-a-long, dancing, and laughing from start to ture Center, 3302 Avenue U; (718) 694–1600; www.mta.info/mta/mu- featuring songs, stories, skits, movies finish. 421–2021; 1 pm; Free. seum; 10 am–1 pm; Free with mu- and more. Rangers teach the tips and tricks to seum admission. identify animal tracks and understand- Blooming Babies: Brooklyn Chil- The museum is partnering with Ex- Thurs, Feb. 12 ing animal nature. Recommended for dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. treme Kids and Crew for a fun day for In Brooklyn children 8 years and older. at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735– families with special needs children. 4400; www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 Hot Feet: 10 am and noon. Kumble To the Moon: 1:30 pm. Brooklyn BAMKids Film Festival: 10 am– am–12:30 pm; Free with museum Theater at Long Island University. See Children’s Museum. See Sunday, Feb. 4:30 pm. BAM Rose Cinemas. See admission. Wednesday, Feb. 11. 1. Saturday, Feb. 7. Children 18 months to 2 years cele- “My Selma” and “A Defiant brate Black History Month and learn all Free to Dance!: Brooklyn Chil- Sat, Feb. 14 Leader”: Tabla Rasa Gallery, 224 about famous African Americans and dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at 48th St. between Second and Third In Brooklyn their contributions. St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; avenues; (718) 833–9100; www. www.brooklynkids.org; 11 am; Free Handmade History: Brooklyn His- Motion lab: 11:30 am–noon. New TablaRasaGallery.com; 2–3:30 pm; with museum admission. torical Society, 128 Pierrepont St. at York Transit Museum. See Saturday, Free. Clinton Street; (718) 222–4111; www. Jan. 31. Children of all ages learn to jump A preview reading by Willie Mae like Pearl, stretch like Alvin Ailey and brooklynhistory.org; 11:30 am; Free. Brown, taken from her memoirs. Suit- Shine and the Moonbeams: be inspired by African-American danc- After visiting one of the Brooklyn able for children 15 years and older. Brower Park Library, 725 St. Marks ers. RSVP required. Historical Society’s galleries, partici- The works commemorate the 50th Ave. at Nostrand Avenue; (718) 773– Blooming Babies: 11:30 am–12:30 pants take part in an art-making proj- anniversary of the voting rights march 7208; www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; pm. Brooklyn Children’s Museum. See ect that they can take home. from Selma to Montgomery and 1 pm; Free. Saturday, Feb. 7. The Year of the Sheep: Brooklyn “Bloody Sunday.” A soulful musical extravaganza. Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. Motion lab: 11:30 am – noon. New 3, 2, 1, Happy Chinese New “Life’s A Real Dream”: Jalopy at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; York Transit Museum. See Saturday, Year: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, Theatre, 315 Columbia St. between www.brooklynkids.org; 12:30 pm; Jan. 31. 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Av- Hamilton Avenue and Woodhull Free with museum admission. enue; (718) 735–4400; www.brook- Street; (718) 395–3214; www.jalopy. Nature’s workshop: Salt Marsh Celebrate Lunar New Year and learn lynkids.org; 2:30 pm; Free with mu- biz; 1:30 pm; Free. Nature Center, 3302 Avenue U; (718) about sheep in art from around the seum admission. 72 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar Children 5 and younger celebrate and feature works of Danish composer the holiday and then create a New Carl Nielsen. Year’s craft to take home. Wed, Feb. 18 Mon, Feb. 16 In Brooklyn In Brooklyn Electricity live!: 10:30 am, 11:30 Discovery days: Brooklyn Botanic am, 12:30 pm and 2 pm. New York Garden, 1000 Washington Ave., at Transit Museum. See Tuesday, Feb. 17. Eastern Parkway; (718) 623–7220; Discovery days: 11 am to 1 pm. www.bbg.org; 11 am to 1 pm; Free Brooklyn Botanic Garden. See Mon- with admission to the grounds. day, Feb. 16. Children explore exotic habitats from around the world and have some Curve City Lab: 11 am–noon and hands-on science fun during midwin- 1–2 pm. New York Transit Museum. ter break. See Tuesday, Feb. 17. “Sleeping Beauty”: Puppetworks, 3, 2, 1, Blast Off!: Brooklyn Chil- 338 Sixth Ave. at Fourth Street; (718) dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at 965–3391; www.puppetworks. St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; org; 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm; $9 ($10 www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am adults). and 2:30 pm; Free with museum Enjoy the mid-winter break with the admission. telling of the classic fairy tale as it is Children take a journey and learn brought to life through the wonderful about African-American women in puppetry of marionette artist Nicolas space. Dr. Mae Jemison tells of her trip Coppola. Recommended for children 4 into space. Children then make a space years and older. craft to take home. Kids week: Salt Marsh Nature Cen- “Sleeping Beauty”: 12:30 pm and ter, 3302 Avenue U; (718) 421–2021; 2:30 pm. Puppetworks. See Monday, 1 pm; Free. Feb. 16. School is out, so come on down and Kids week: 1 pm. Salt Marsh Nature participate in nature-related activities Center. See Monday, Feb. 16. with the Rangers.

Tues, Feb. 17 Thurs, Feb. 19 In Brooklyn In Brooklyn Electricity live!: 10:30 am, 11:30 Electricity live!: New York Transit am, 12:30 pm and 2 pm. New York Museum, Boerum Place at Schermer- Transit Museum. See Tuesday, Feb. 17. horn Street; (718) 694–1600; www. mta.info/mta/museum; 10:30 am, Curve City Lab: 11 am–noon and 11:30 am, 12:30 pm and 2 pm; Free 1–2 pm. New York Transit Museum.

with museum admission. Photo by Gerry Goodstein See Tuesday, Feb. 17. Discover the secrets of how currents Traffic Lights: Brooklyn Children’s travel along the third rail to power the Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. trains. For all ages. Paper Bag gets ‘Hot’ Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; Discovery days: 11 am to 1 pm. www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am Take a hot step over to On costumes and sets, sing-along Brooklyn Botanic Garden. See Mon- and 2:30 pm; Free with museum day, Feb. 16. Stage at Kingsborough for the songs, and funny stories. Join in admission. new Paper Bag Players produc- a world of dancing cookies, a Red means stop, green means go. Curve City Lab: New York Transit tion of “Hot Feet” on Feb. 28. runaway chicken, and a bustling Then, make a traffic craft to take Museum, Boerum Place at Schermer- The Paper Bag Players cele- subway car. home. horn Street; (718) 694–1600; www. mta.info/mta/museum; 11 am–noon brates its 56th anniversary with a “Hot Feet” on Feb. 28 at 2 pm. “Sleeping Beauty”: 12:30 pm and and 1–2 pm; Free with museum production of short plays includ- Tickets are $12. 2:30 pm. Puppetworks. See Monday, admission. ing “Happy Day.” You will be sing- On Stage At Kinsborough [2001 Feb. 16. ing, dancing, and laughing from Oriental Blvd. at Oxford Street in Curves are found all around the Kids week: 1 pm. Salt Marsh Nature New York City transit system — in the start to finish with the group’s Manhattan Beach (718) 368–5596; Center. See Monday, Feb. 16. design of subway stations and tunnels. blend of paper and cardboard www.onstageatkingsborough.org] Children explore the designs and ex- Sing-a-Long: Brooklyn Children’s periment with whirled and twirled ma- Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. terials to get a lesson in curvilinearity. Anansi and discover how this African Center. See Monday, Feb. 16. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; For all ages. tale traveled around the world. Chil- www.brooklynkids.org; 6 pm; Free Denmark Chamber Choir: Beth- with museum admission. “Anansi the African Spider- dren 2 and older make a spider to take man”: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, home. lehem Lutheran Church, Ovington Gwen Sumpter tells a tale and then 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Av- Avenue and Fourth Avenue; 7:30 pm; invites all to a sing-a-long featuring “Sleeping Beauty”: 12:30 pm and enue; (718) 735–4400; www.brook- $15. songs from the African American spiri- 2:30 pm. Puppetworks. See Monday, lynkids.org; 11:30 am; Free with mu- Singers from the University of tual tradition. Feb. 16. seum admission. Southern Denmark and from the island “The Pajama Game”: Brooklyn Listen to tales of the mischievous Kids week: 1 pm. Salt Marsh Nature of Fionia will perform Danish standards Continued on page 74 February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 73 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 73 Free with museum admission. www.brooklyn.liu.edu/kumbletheater; ents this jazz, classical, and gospel con- Music School Playhouse, 126 St. Felix This performance introduces children 7 pm; $5 ($3 with student ID). cert celebrating Black History Month. St. between Lafayette Avenue and to African percussion instruments, The fifth-annual event features the The Omni Ensemble: Brooklyn Hanson Place; (718) 638–5660; brook- music, and vocals from the African and styles of traditional and modern Af- Conservatory of Music, 58 Seventh lynmusicschool.org; 8 pm; $25 at the Caribbean culture. rican clothing. There will also be live Ave. between Lincoln Place and Sev- door. drumming and singing. Presented by Train Operator school: 2–4 pm. enth Avenue; (718) 622–3300; www. the African Student Association. The fifth-annual musical produc- New York Transit Museum. See Satur- bqcm.org; 8 pm; $15, ($10 students tion performed by the Brooklyn Players day, Feb. 7. and seniors). Community Musical Theatre. Suitable Sat, Feb. 28 Celebrate the 32nd season with a for all ages that can sit through a two- “Making ‘The Dance’ ”: Inger- concert featuring soprano Charlotte and-a-half hour Broadway production. soll Community Center, 177 Myrtle In Brooklyn Dobbs. Avenue at Prince St.; (718) 855–2923; Teatre Tre: BAM Fisher, 321 Ash- Fri, Feb. 20 3–5 pm; Free. land Pl. between Hansen Place and Join art educators from FOKUS for Lafayette Avenue; www.bam.org/visit/ Sun, March 1 In Brooklyn a youth and family workshop cel- buildings/bam-fisher; 10:30 am and In Brooklyn Electricity live!: 10:30 am, 11:30 ebrating the visual artist and former 1:30 pm; $12. Gull walk: Prospect Park Audubon am, 12:30 pm and 2 pm. New York Fort Greene resident Emilio Cruz. Par- Sweden’s oldest troupe presents a Center, Enter park at Lincoln Road Transit Museum. See Tuesday, Feb. 17. ticipants will reinterpret Cruz’s 1962 physical comedy created especially for and Ocean Avenue; (718) 287–3400; painting “The Dance” by creating their younger audiences (3–7 years old). 11 am–noon and www.prospectpark.org/audubon; 8 Curve City Lab: own abstract artworks, and more. Clowns use blocks to build, break, and 1–2 pm. New York Transit Museum. rebuild relationships to space and each am–9 am; Free. See Tuesday, Feb. 17. “The Pajama Game”: 3 pm and 8 Hike with the rangers and discover pm. Brooklyn Music School Playhouse. other. Jammin’ Out: Brooklyn Children’s how many types of gulls reside in the See Thursday, Feb. 19. Family Boogie: Brooklyn Historical park. Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Society, 128 Pierrepont St. at Clinton Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; Street; (718) 222–4111; www.brook- Teatre Tre: 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am Sun, Feb. 22 lynhistory.org; 11 am; Free. BAM Fisher. See Saturday, Feb. 28. and 2:30 pm; Free with museum In Brooklyn Enjoy a day of exploration, a trea- admission. Cosmic creations: 11:30 am and 2 “Unbought and Unbossed”: sure hunt of the building, and dance pm. Brooklyn Children’s Museum. See Black History Month is explored with Together in Dance. by learning about traditional African 11:30 am and 2 pm. Brooklyn Chil- Saturday, Feb. 28. instrments. dren’s Museum. See Saturday, Feb. 21. Family Boogie: Brooklyn Historical Society, 128 Pierrepont St. at Clinton Arts of the African Diaspora: Long-running “Sleeping Beauty”: 12:30 pm and Street; (718) 222–4111; www.brook- 12:30 pm. Brooklyn Children’s Mu- 2:30 pm. Puppetworks. See Monday, lynhistory.org; 11 am; Free. In Brooklyn Feb. 16. seum. See Saturday, Feb. 21. Enjoy a day of exploration, a trea- “The African Drum”: PS 3 The Kids week: 1 pm. Salt Marsh Nature The Night Sky: Prospect Park Audu- sure hunt of the building, and dance Bedford Village School, 50 Jeffer- Center. See Monday, Feb. 16. bon Center, Enter park at Lincoln Road with Together in Dance. son Ave. at Franklin Avenue; (212) and Ocean Avenue; (718) 287–3400; Cosmic creations: Brooklyn Chil- 724–0677; www.shadowboxtheatre. “The Pajama Game”: 8 pm. www.prospectpark.org/audubon; 7 dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at org; Wednesday, Jan. 28, 10:30 am; Brooklyn Music School Playhouse. See pm; Free. Thursday, Feb. 19. St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; Thursday, Jan. 29, 10:30 am; Friday, Take a trip through the universe www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am and Jan. 30, 10:30 am; Tuesday, Feb. 3, with the Rangers and learn all about 2 pm; Free with museum admission. 10:30 am; Thursday, Feb. 12, 11 am; Sat, Feb. 21 the folklore and history of our solar Learn about astronomy and the Wednesday, March 4, 10:30 am; system. Thursday, March 5, 10:30 am; Friday, In Brooklyn planets, stars, and space with Dr. Neil Degrasse Tyson, a contemporary Afri- March 6, 10:30 am; Monday, March 9, Handmade History: 11:30 am. can-American astrophysisist. Make a 10:30 am; Tuesday, March 10, 10:30 Brooklyn Historical Society. See Satur- Wed, Feb. 25 shooting star to take home. am; Wednesday, March 11, 10:30 am; day, Feb. 14. In Brooklyn Friday, March 13, 10:30 am; $10 in “Hot Feet”: On Stage at Kingsbor- Told It First Hand: Conversations advance ($15 at the door; $8 group “Unbought and Unbossed”: ough, 2001 Oriental Blvd. at Oxford with Hip-Hop’s “Do-ers”: Brooklyn rates). Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Street; (718) 368–5596; www.on- Historical Society, 128 Pierrepont St. at Listen to the wit, wisdom, and Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Avenue; stageatkingsborough.org; 2 pm; $12. (718) 735–4400; www.brooklynkids. Clinton Street; (718) 222–4111; www. humor of traditional folk tales and The Paper Bag Players celebrates the org; 11:30 am and 2 pm; Free with brooklynhistory.org; 6:30 pm; $10. learn how the turtle got its shell, and 56th anniversary with a production of museum admission. three more African fables woven into Brooklyn Bodega’s Wes Jackson sits short plays including “Happy Day.” Tells the story of Shirley Chisholm, down with Albert Johnson, author an interactive shadow puppet ad- the first African-American woman to of “K’wan,” and Johnny Temple of Black history month: Barnes venture of little Kjana and her animal be elected to Congress. Akashic Books to talk about hip-hop in and Noble, 267 Seventh Ave. at Sixth friends. Presented by the Shadow Box the literary world. Street; (718) 832–9066; www.barne- Theatre. Arts of the African Diaspora: sandnoble.com; 2 pm; Free. Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Ice skating: Lefrak Center in Learn about Rosa Parks and Jackie Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Avenue; Prospect Park, Parkside and Ocean Thurs, Feb. 26 Robinson. (718) 735–4400; www.brooklynkids. avenues; (718) 594–7439; info@ org; 12:30 pm; Free with museum In Brooklyn Train Operator school: 2–4 pm. brooklynice.org; www.brooklynice. admission. Free Thursday!: Brooklyn Chil- New York Transit Museum. See Satur- org; Tuesdays – Thursdays, 11 am–6 Children connect to the past and dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at day, Feb. 7. pm, Fridays, 11 am–8 pm, Saturdays, St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; 10 am–9 pm, Sundays, 10 am–6 pm, learn about the traditional and con- The Phantazia String Players: www.brooklynkids.org; 3–6 pm; Free. Now – Tues, March 31; $6 ($8 on Sat. temporary customs of the African Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 and Sun) plus $6 skate rental. people. Join in for a afternoon at the Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Avenue; museum. Families have a great time twirling Grace Drums: Brooklyn Children’s (718) 735–4400; www.brook- and skating and enjoying the rink . Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Fashion Show: Kumble Theater at lynkids.org; 3 pm; Free with museum Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; Long Island University, DeKalb and admission. Art Kids: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- www.brooklynkids.org; 1 and 2 pm; Flatbush avenues; (718) 488–1624; The Noel Pointer foundation pres- seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks 74 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar Avenue; (718) 735–4400; www. Feb. 20, 2:30 pm; Saturday, Feb. 21, brooklynkids.org; Fridays, 11:30 am 1:30 pm; Sunday, Feb. 22, 1:30 pm; and 2:30 pm, Now – Fri, March 6; Free Free with museum admission. with museum admission. Children work together to build a gi- Children explore a new style of art ant-sized model of the Verrazano Nar- and discover the artistic process while rows Bridge while learning about the developing artistic skills. towers, anchorages, cables and deck “We the People: The Citizens that make this suspension bridge an of NYCHA in Pictures and Words”: engineering marvel. Suitable for chil- Brooklyn Historical Society, 128 Pier- dren 5 years and older. repont St. at Clinton Street; (718) Ringling Bros. and Barnum & 222–4111; www.brooklynhistory.org; Bailey Circus: Barclays Center, 620 Wednesdays – Sundays, Noon–5 pm, Atlantic Ave. at Pacific Street; (917) Now – Sun, March 8; $10. 618–6100; www.barclayscenter.com; This collection exhibits candid pho- Friday, Feb. 20, 7 pm; Saturday, Feb. tographs and interviews with African 21, 3 pm; Sunday, Feb. 22, 11 am; Americans and Latinos residing in New Monday, Feb. 23, 11 am; Wednesday, York City Housing Authority housing, Feb. 25, 7 pm; Thursday, Feb. 26, 7 taking a different look at the stereo- pm; Friday, Feb. 27, 10:30 am; Satur- types surrounding them. day, Feb. 28, 7 pm; Sunday, March 1, Sensory room: Brooklyn Chil- 11 am; Monday, March 2, 11 am. dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at Ringling Bros. presents “CIRCUS St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; XTREME,” featuring artists who go www.brooklynkids.org; Tuesdays, to the extreme, from the latest BMX Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, riding tricks, to a new twist on the 11:30 am–12:30 pm and 2:30–3:30 high wire, to animals from around the pm, Now – Sun, Feb. 22; Free with world. museum admission. Africa in Bed-Stuy Movie Matinees: BAM Rose Cin- For children with autism spectrum emas, 30 Lafayette Ave. between disorder and their families. Space lim- Africa comes to Brooklyn when The fables are accompanied by Lafayatte Avenue and Hanson Place; ited, first come first served. the Bedford Village School pres- original and traditional African ents “The African Drum” through music performed on the “talking (718) 636–4100; www.bam.org; “Sleeping Beauty”: Puppetworks, Sundays, 2 pm, beginning Sun, Feb. 338 Sixth Ave. at Fourth Street; (718) March 13, inviting kids ages 3 to 7 drum” and other authentic Afri- 22; $7 children ($10 adults and $9 for 965–3391; www.puppetworks.org; to sing and dance their way on a can instruments. members). Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 pm and trip through the grasslands. “The African Drum” on Feb. 3 Curated by BAMcinematek, the se- 2:30 pm, Now – Sun, March 29; $9 Kijana and her animal friends and 12; and March 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, ries offers families an introduction to ($10 adults). — including talking leopards, a and 13. Show times are at 10:30 the classic films and new indie selec- The classic fairy tale is brought to wise old loon, and a turtle — teach am and 11 am, check the listings tions. From Charlie Chaplin to Walter life through the wonderful puppetry life’s lessons, as they lead visitors for exact times. $10 in advance; Lang. of marionette artist Nicolas Coppola. Recommended for children 4 years on a wondrous adventure through $15 at the door; $8 group rates. Further Afield storytelling and such traditional The Bedford Village School [50 and older. Tropical discoveries: New York African folk tales as “How the Ani- Jefferson Ave. between Bedford and Needlework and games: Lefferts Botanical Garden, 200th St. and Ka- Historic Homestead, 452 Flatbush Ave. mals Got Their Colors,” “How the Franklin avenues in Bedford-Stuyve- zimiroff Blvd., The Bronx; (718) 817– between Empire Boulevard and East- Turtle Got Its Shell,” and “Why the sant, (212) 724–0677; www.shadow- 8700; www.nybg.org; Tuesdays – ern Parkway; (718) 789–2822; www. Egret Flies Free.” boxtheatre.org]. Fridays, 10 am–5 pm, Now – Fri, Feb. prospectpark.org; Saturdays and Sun- 27; Free with garden admission. days, 1–3 pm,; $3. Children explore the differences Join in with staff and make a small Children are invited to imagine and Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. between tropical and temperate sampler and play board games. create new worlds and explore the at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; plants in the Everett Children’s Gar- den, where they can pot a tropical Nature playtime: Prospect Park museum. www.brooklynkids.org; Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am–5 pm, Fri, Feb. 6 plant to take home. They will also Zoo, 450 Flatbush Ave. at Ocean Ice skating school: Lefrak Center – Sun, May 10; Free with museum make bark rubbings, count tree rings, Avenue; (718) 399–7339; www. in Prospect Park, Parkside and Ocean admission. and fill up a field notebook with in- prospectparkzoo.com; Sundays, 10:30 avenues; (718) 594–7439; info@ teresting facts. am–12:30 pm, Now – Sun, April 26; brooklynice.org; www.brooklynice. This innovative exhibit teaches the Free with zoo admission. org; Mondays and Wednesdays, science of how things move by land, “Galapagos – Nature’s Wonder- The workshops are designed to help 4–6:30 pm, Now – Tues, March 10; sea, and air. Visitors can heat up and land in 3D”: New York Hall of Sci- families explore nature through play, Free. launch a hot air balloon, operate an ence, 47-01 111th St., Queens; (718) authentic canal lock system to move a activities include nature inspired arts Instructions, fitness, homework help 699–0005 X 353; www.nyscience. boat, and experiment with pneumat- and crafts, insect observation, playing and lots more. Preregistration required. org; Weekdays, 11 am & 2 pm, Sat- with snow and more. Children receive ics, pulleys, hydraulics, and levers to urdays and Sundays, 1 & 3 pm, be- a nature play activity guide to the park. Ken Siegleman’s Poetry out- move objects mechanically. ginning Sat, Feb. 14; $6 adults; $5 reach: Barnes and Noble, 267 Sev- Each workshop is led by a trained teen Very Very Verrazano: New York children. enth Ave. at Sixth Street; (718) 832– discovery guide. Transit Museum, Boerum Place at In this 3D movie, travel to the Gala- 9066; www.barnesandnoble.com; Schermerhorn Street; (718) 694–1600; pagos archipelago to meet giant Arty Facts: Brooklyn Museum, 200 Thursdays, 6:30 pm,; Free. Eastern Pkwy. at Washington Avenue; www.mta.info/mta/museum; Satur- half-ton tortoises and marine iguanas Anthony Vigorito hosts a night of (718) 638–5000; www.brooklyn- day, Feb. 14, 1:30 pm; Sunday, Feb. that spit sea-salt from their noses, poetry featuring guest poets each museum.org; Sundays, 11 am, Now 15, 1:30 pm; Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2:30 hunt fishes with the colorful blue- week. For teens and adults. – Sun, May 17; Free with museum pm; Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2:30 pm; footed boobies, and swim with tiny admission. From Here to There: Brooklyn Thursday, Feb. 19, 2:30 pm; Friday, penguins. February 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 75 New & Noteworthy BY LISA J. CURTIS

Precious What their heart desires Love is so Serve up some love with a side cups, utensils, a guest check pad, metal of fried egg with Alex Toys’ Sweet- pencil, and credit cards. The set puzzling! heart Cafe play set. Recommended also has a hamburger, fries, ice There are special for cooks, waiters, and diners ages cream, and other tempting dishes. For a sweet — and sugar-free! — girls and women in 3 and up, the 40-piece set includes This is a toy that will be enjoyed — Valentine’s Day gift, the Sweet Talk your life, although you everything a little restaurateur by chefs, servers, and diners — for Cube Puzzle gets to the heart of the may not always remem- could want: an apron, hat, and years to come. Bon appétit! matter. This toy, inspired by Erno ber to tell them what they napkins in matching heart-print Sweetheart Cafe by Alex Toys, Rubik’s popular puzzle from our own mean to you. With the person- fabric, menus, place mats, plates, $44.99, www.alextoys.com. childhoods, challenges the gamer — alized “You Are Loved” necklace ages 8 and older — to match the from Chasing Fireflies, you can candy heart-inspired messages on remind your daughter, mother, each face. Their brains will be work- grandmother, sister, or aunt how Six strings attached ing overtime as their fingers spin the much they mean to others. The 2 1/4-inch-high cube’s faces, trying to 18-inch-long, sterling silver What could be a heart-shaped sound hole! The 30- arrange a whole side of hearts that necklace features a 10-milli- sweeter way to en- inch guitar, which is recommended proclaim, “Cutie Pie” or “Tru Love.” meter disc stamped with “you courage music ap- for musicians ages 6 and older, Sweet Talk Cube Puzzle, $9.98, are loved” and the 15-millime- preciation than comes with a pick, extra string, www.hearthsong.com. ter heart can be stamped with a cotton-candy tuning pegs, and a carrying case. a name — up to eight charac- pink acous- Schoenhut’s design incorporates ters long. The necklace also has tic guitar? six metal strings, a molded com- a pretty, faceted bead of pink Schoenhut, posite body, and a birch sound jade. Don’t wait — extra time is a respected board. All that’s needed is the required to personalize the pen- maker of toy sheet music to “My Bonnie Lies dant before Valentine’s Day. pianos, also Over the Ocean.” Personalized You Are Loved ma nufactures Six-string Acoustic Guitar by Necklace, $88, www.chasing-fire- child-size guitars Schoenhut, $41.99, www.target. flies.com. with a lovely twist — a com.

heels over this new member Sweet dreams, baby… of the family. Another favorite tune of mine is the title Suz Slezak’s first children’s album, full of haunting original and classic track, a lullaby that helps “Watching the Nighttime Come,” music which drops on Feb. 10. Par- baby say “goodbye to the makes a big impact on the listener ents can’t help but identify with the sun.” There’s much more to enjoy on at 7 pm at with a slate of quiet songs imbued wonder and awe of a new mother this eclectic album — such as a 16th Rockwood Music Hall, with the powerful love a parent has holding her baby in Slezak’s “Where century round and a Mexican lullaby. Stage 1, 196 Allen St. in Manhattan. for their child. A member of the indie Did You Come From?” “You Got Slezak will perform an album release Watching the Nighttime Come CD folk band David Wax Museum, the Love” is a soothing list of all of the show, “Sweet Love and Lullabies,” by Suz Slezak, $15, www.davidwax- vocalist-fiddler went solo for this CD relatives who have fallen head-over- (for listeners 21 and older) on Feb. 13 museum.com.

76 BROOKLYN Family • February 2015 theMarketplace

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