Queens Family

of PediatricsThe WorldMarch 2011 QUEENS FREE Family www.webfamilyny.com

CAMP GUIDE 10 questions parents should ask Graduating to sleep-away camp

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Month 2011 • XXXXX Family 2 March 2011 • Queens Family 3 Letter from the publisher Crying at the camp bus hen my to the very little kids, are offered both in our and snowy winter, but spring will daugh ter was the newcomers, who communities, through- come and so will summer, W 6 years old, I she had a special gift out the city and in the and before we know it, sent her to a terrific day of working with and re- surrounding country- the kids will be getting camp on Staten Island. lating to. She still does, side that many of us will on the bus, or we will A bus came to pick her and nothing pleases select as the summer home/ be dropping them off up and bring her back me more than seeing activity for our kids. There is so at camp and another every evening. I was an her interacting with much diversity, with all kinds of summer of fun will be on- emotional wreck every small children in that camps and programs that will going. Don’t wait too long day for the first few special way she has enhance every child’s possibili- to start your search and weeks, but she was ex- that endears both her ties. There are full-time and part- make sure to read the camp cited and adored her bus counselor. and them to each other. time schedules to accommodate articles each month that will She was so happy, and it was the She also went to local mini-camps every economic reality, and hap- help you ask the right ques- closest thing to the country that a when there were school breaks, and pily, there is literally something for tions, and look for the most fit- city kid could get while still com- thank goodness for those because everyone’s kid. ting program for your youngsters. ing home at the end of the day. She working parents need to fill in the You have to do the homework, in- Have a great month! Thanks for LOVED that camp! She loved it so gaps that these breaks pose. So quire, and ultimately select the right reading! much that each summer experience many wonderful programs are out program for your family’s needs, developed a camp “family,” and as there and the terrific people who run your pocketbook, and your child. the years passed she graduated and staff them do us a service that is This month we present some of the from camper to junior counselor priceless. many possibilities, and there will be and then on to full counselor. She It’s that time of year when we more in the months ahead. ended up being a fantastic mentor present in earnest the programs that I know this has been a long, cold Susan Weiss-Voskidis, Publisher

Staff contact information

Publisher / Advertising / editoriAl: Advertising: Web or Print Address Susan Weiss (718) 260-4554 Family Publications New York/CNG Publisher / business MAnAger: [email protected] or 1 Metrotech Center North Clifford Luster [email protected] 10th Floor sAles MAnAger / Advertising: Brooklyn, NY 11201 Sharon Noble circulAtion sPeciAl AdMinistrAtive AssistAnt: (718) 260-8336 Tina Felicetti [email protected] www.webfamilyny.com sAles rePs: Linda Smith, Stephanie Stellaccio, Jay Pelc editoriAl Production MAnAger: Keith Oechsner (718) 260-4554 Art director: Leah Mitch [email protected] Production director: On Man Tse lAyout MAnAger: Yvonne Farley The acceptance of advertising by Family Publica Join the conversation on Facebook. Web designer: Sylvan Migdal tions New York does not constitute an endorse- Family Publications New York has been recog- grAPhic designers: Arthur Arutyunov, ment of the products, services or information nized for editorial and design excellence by PPA. being advertised. We do not knowingly present Patty Coughlan, Mauro Deluca, Earl Ferrer, Family Publications New York is published Irene Liberman any products or services that are fraudulent or misleading in nature. monthly by Family Publications New York/CNG. Subscription rate is $35 annually. Reproduction Editorial inquiries, calendar information, advertis- MAnAging editor: Vince DiMiceli of Family Publications New York in whole or part ing rates and schedules and subscription requests without written permission from the publisher is AssistAnt editors: Meredith Deliso, may be addressed to Family Publications New prohibited. All rights reserved. Copyright©2011 Courtney Donahue th York/CNG, One Metrotech Center North, 10 Readership: 220,000. 2010 circulation audit by CAC. coPy editor: Lisa J. Curtis Floor, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. cAlendAr editor: Joanna Del Buono Family Publications New York can also be contributing Writers: Risa Doherty, reached by calling (718) 250-4554, emailing Helen Klein, Allison Plitt, Candi Sparks, [email protected] or by visiting our website, Mary Carroll Wininger webfamilyny.com 4 Queens Family • March 2011 Queens Family March 2011

Features columns 6 The house of jazz 34 Ask the Professional Icon Louis Armstrong’s home is now a museum by Deborah Berger By Mary Carroll Wininger 38 Twice the Advice 8 Recession 101 by Jacqueline and Kerry Donelli The economic downturn vs. hopes for college By Candi Sparks 39 Growing Up Online by Carolyn Jabs 10 Graduating to sleep-away camp By Laurie Roberts Karol 40 Newbie Dad By Brian Kantz 12 The perfect camp 10 questions to ask when researching for summer 48 It Figures By Cynthia Washam 22 Having a baby on her own One woman’s choice of artificial insemination 50 New & Noteworthy By Allison Plitt The hottest new products 24 Looking at eyes How vision problems can create trouble in school calendar of events By Ilana Gelfond-Polnariev, OD, FCOVD 42 Going Places 30 A show with heart Take the family out and find out what’s Queens theater company gives back going on in your town By Allison Plitt 32 The ‘Tiger’ wars special sections Examining the controversial author’s strict style By Risa C. Doherty 14 Camp Directory 28 The World of Pediatrics 36 Bonding with teens How to connect even when they’re pulling away 24 By Michele Ranard, M.Ed. March 2011 • Queens Family 5 AROUND TOWN The house of jazz

BY MARY CARROLL WININGER while he was in the Colored Waifs’ about the details of his life and time, Icon Louis Home for Boys that he received his which is evident through the 86 jazz trumpeter who had 50 first music lesson. scrapbooks, 5,000 photographs, 120 Armstrong’s years of hit songs, dozens Sixty years later, he had far- awards and plaques, five trumpets, A of jazz standards, 30 films, reaching influence in the worlds of and innumerable papers, letters and and a legion of fans, Louis Arm- music and cinema, major sociopo- manuscripts all found in the house. home is now strong most enjoyed coming home to litical events of the 20th century, “[Louis Armstrong] was the orig- Queens and playing his trumpet for and American pop culture at large. inal archivist of the house,” says the local kids, teaching them about Although he toured extensively, he Dyer. “Before the house was even a museum music and his life. Now you, too, can was always glad to come back to designated as a museum, Louis had visit his home and learn about his northeast Corona, where he and his already done a lot of the work for us, music, life and legacy. wife, Lucille, had established their as far as record-keeping and organi- Born on Aug. 4, 1901, Armstrong permanent home base in 1943. (Lu- zation of media and other materials. grew up in an area of New Orleans cille decided they should settle in We were…already sitting on a gold so rough that it was nick- Queens because she hailed from mine of stuff.” that borough.) Approximately 5,000 schoolchil- Upon their deaths, Lucille dren visit the museum annually, and willed the modest little frame the majority of visitors are families. house on 107th Street to the city, The museum’s longest-running and which deemed it a national land- most successful program to date, mark. “Pops is Tops,” is an annual concert In 2003, the Louis Armstrong series held in May, during which Educational Foundation, an or- more than 1,600 kids from all over ganization created to promote Queens listen to jazz bands per- and preserve Armstrong’s leg- form in the Japanese-themed gar- acy, decided to convert the den adjacent to the house. Every house into a museum, because Fourth of July, the day which Arm- there continues to be so much strong was originally thought to interest in the jazz musician. have been born, the museum hosts “Long after he passed away, a free, open-to-the-public birthday fans kept showing up [to the party in honor of the jazz great. And house],” says Deslyn Dyer, the during the annual Halloween party, museum’s assistant director. there are tours and costume prizes The main draw of the mu- awarded every hour. (But any child seum is the hourly guided who shows up dressed as Armstrong tours, during which visitors receives an automatic prize!) can see rooms and furnish- For all the places he saw and the ings left untouched since the people he met in his lifetime, what Armstrongs were residents: Louis Armstrong most enjoyed was a Chinese-inspired, red, spending time at home and teaching lacquer bench in the dining room; others about his music and life, just named “The Bat- knickknacks from around the world; as the Louis Armstrong House Mu- tlefield.” He lived a streamlined kitchen, in which the seum continues to do today. in stark poverty cabinets were finished in a vibrant Louis Armstrong House Museum [34- with his mother turquoise; and a bathroom where 56 107th St. in Corona, (718) 478-8274]. and sister, and the ceiling and walls are covered in Open Tuesday through Friday 10 am-5 left school at the mirrors. pm, Saturday and Sunday 12-5 pm. The age of 7 to work Visitors can also hear audio clips 40-minute guided tours start every hour odd jobs such as of Louis’s vast personal collection on the hour, with the last tour at 4 pm. delivering coal and of home recordings, in which he $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, children and selling newspapers. practices the trumpet or chats with groups. Children under 4 and members (He later attended friends. These recordings — which free. For more information, visit www. school intermit- encompass some 1,200 hours of reel- louisarmstronghouse.org. (Top) Louis Armstrong jams with tently through the to-reel tape — make up a fraction of Mary Carroll Wininger is a writer some neighborhood pals in front fifth grade.) Armstrong was jailed in the museum’s collection. Armstrong based in New York City. She is a frequent of his house in Corona in the mid- 1912 for firing a pistol in the street to was an avid amateur historian; he contributor on topics ranging from eti- 1960s. (Above) The house today. celebrate New Year’s Eve, but it was enjoyed keeping extensive records quette to feng shui.

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FREE Family Da y Saturday March 12, 2-4 pm

Children’s Garden Program Registration Underway!

The HSBC Children’s Garden at the Queens Botanical Garden offers hands-on discovery for ages 5 – 12. Children’s imaginations and knowledge blossom as they plant and harvest vegetables and ﬂowers, visit the bee garden and more!

Saturdays This Spring! (no class May 28) Summer II Tuesdays & Thursdays (9 am - 4 pm) Children’s Garden enjoys lead March 26 – June 11, 9:30 am - noon Full 7 weeks: July 7 - August 18: $900/ $810 members support fromHSBC Bank USA, N.A. $325 Register at Family Day & Save! July only: July 7 - July 28: $490/$441 members Additional support has been provided by the New York City Department of Cultural August only: August 2 - August 18: $420/$378 members Summer Sessions Booking Now! Affairs; the Zoos, Botanical Gardens, and Aquariums Grant Program of the New York Summer I Mondays & Wednesdays (9 am - 4 pm) State Ofﬁce of Parks, Recreation, and Full 7 weeks: July 6 - August 17: $900/ $810 members To learn more, contact: [email protected]; Historic Preservation; and the Walter July only: July 6 - July 27: $490/$441 members 718-886-3800, ext. 230 Kaner Children’s Foundation. August only: August 1 - August 17: $420/$378 member www.queensbotanical.org/childrensgarden

March 2011 • Queens Family 7 Education

Recession 101 By Candi SparkS college today without thinking about available; environment; reputation; The economic how to pay for it,” says Carol, a New crime rate — on and off campus — t used to be widely accepted Yorker who has a checklist for her and lots more. It is also important downturn that going to college would lead daughter, Julie, who is now a high that the student’s grade point aver- I to a good-paying job, so families school sophomore. age and learning style is one that can saved and borrowed money in order “Start looking at colleges as soon meet the requirements of the college vs. hopes for to send their children to school. Un- as possible,” advises Carol, who and is one that will be a good fit for fortunately, the economic downturn started during her daughter’s fresh- her learning style. college is affecting our ability to make, save man year. In addition to finding out which col- and borrow money for our day-to- The junior year of high school leges meet your child’s needs, it is crit- day expenses, making college less af- is generally the time that most stu- ical that all financial info is up-to-date fordable for many families. Moreover, dents start visiting campuses. How- and available when the college ap- students are not only vying against ever, in the current economic cli- plications and financial aid packages other high school grads to get a spot, mate, their list of preferred schools have to be filled out and turned in. but now out-of-work adults are re- may take longer to weed through Keep an eye on deadlines and require- turning to school in record numbers. because the families require more ments for financial aid, scholarships, And now, even with a bachelor’s de- time to look for funding. loans and grants. The transition from gree, there’s no guarantee that a col- The criteria for choosing a school high school to college is a process — lege degree will land our kids a job. should include which setting fits and largely a financial one. The recession has hit our children’s your child the best; cost, including “Don’t be afraid to ask a college for hopes for higher education. tuition, books, room, board, and dis- a re-evaluation of your financial aid What can we do about it? tance; majors offered; school rank- package. Learn the art of the bargain,” “You cannot think about going to ing; loans, grants and scholarships says Kristen Campbell, executive di-

8 Queens Family • March 2011 rector of Kaplan college prep pro- sonable price,” predicts Jacquelyn grams [what’s her exact title? what’s Nealon, EdD, vice president of New the exact name of the company? ex- York Institute of Technology [in ecutive director of Kaplan’s college Brooklyn??]. “Focus will shift from prep program division?]. According the cost of higher education to to Campbell, financial aid is one of the value of high education. Fami- for the Performing Arts colleges’ biggest recruiting tools. lies will emphasize reducing loan “Keep in mind that you don’t debt, earning impactful degrees necessarily have to take the first that result in good jobs right after financial aid package that is of- graduation, and learning about our fered to you,” says Campbell. “By ‘shrinking world’ through an em- STA R the time a school accepts you as phasis on global education.” a student, it sees you as a worth- It is evident that the recession is while investment on its part, so causing students to re-think their it will usually want to help you educational prospects. Surprisingly, figure out financing. Schools want for some, there is value in going into TREK to work with families and students hock for a prestigious degree. The to find a way to make themselves current high unemployment — and LIVE affordable.” underemployment — rates are con- Campbell says a Kaplan 2010 tributing factors. SATURDAY, MARCH 12 AT 2 PM survey saw an increase in the num- “Top-tier colleges are seeing a ber of students entering college in dramatic increase in the number a gap year. So, if college is not af- of applications that they receive,” Audience members join Starfleet Academy only to be unexpectedly fordable right now, consider enroll- says Barry Lenson, a college coun- whisked into an adventure that combines cutting-edge special ing in the next year or two, while selor and blogger at MyUsearch. effects, unmatched audience interaction, and cool science to you continue to look for the right com and Straighterline.com, where create an exhilarating and unforgettable theatrical experience. package — and your student can he comments on college education Star Trek is a thrilling journey for audiences of all ages! take advantage of that time to bank and educational funding. “I think some money — at least to cover it is because students and their the cost of books. families believe that a degree from Schools are also seeing a rise a top school will assure a job after in students transferring from top graduation. Interesting that this Dallas Children’s Theater in 10 and other four-year colleges to trend is insulating Harvard and community colleges because of af- the other elite schools from harm fordability. [From Lisa: Here, the during this post-recessionary pe- writer is saying that students want riod.” Of course, enrollment in an GIGGLE to transfer from a good school to Ivy League school may not result a community college, because cc’s in graduation from that school or are more affordable, but this con- guarantee a lucrative post-gradu- GIGGLE QUACK tradicts the quote which follows, ation job. which says that students want to Parents and their students save money by going to cc for two should have an ongoing dialogue years and then transfer TO the about college and how to make it good school. Are these contradict- happen. To assist families in the ing each other? Or are they both process of evaluating their options, true? And if they are both true, college admission counselors in then we need write a segue that both the public and private sectors makes that clear. At the moment, it are available. There are also sev- reads like we made a mistake.] eral online resources that can help “The rise in interest in trans- manage the student’s educational ferring also seems to be because needs and evaluate what a particu- more middle-class students that lar college has to offer. Many com- would not usually go to a commu- panies, such as Connected, http:// SUNDAY, MARCH 27 AT 2 PM nity college otherwise, are going www.connectedu.com, offer infor- Sponsored by NIC Holding Corp. because it’s simply more afford- mation and services to students, able — even though they still want and the adults who work with to transfer to a great school after them, to assist in the process. Visit tillescenter.org to see the entire season of two years,” explains Chris Good- There are options out there that macher, co-author of “The Transfer can make college more affordable. Great Fun for the Whole Family. Book,” and its blog, www.thetrans- With research, planning and pa- ferbook.com/blog. perwork, students can realize their “A major market correction will dreams of earning a degree that is TILLESCENTER.ORG or TICKETMASTER.COM occur in the college selection pro- personally fulfilling and will help TillesCharge 516.299.3100 or Ticketmaster 1.800.745.3000 cess. Students and families will lead them to a promising career. move away from selecting colleges Candi Sparks is the author of the C.W. Post Campus | Long Island University with ‘coffee table cache’ and high “Can I Have Some Money?” book se- These performances are made There is a per ticket fee for all tickets ordered possible in part by public funds stock prices, and instead lean to- ries and is on Facebook and Twitter. alway use on white background (no exceptions). by Internet or phone. No refunds or exchanges. from the New York State Council ward lesser-known schools offer- She is the mother of two and currently Programs, artists and dates subject to change. on the Arts, a State Agency. ing high-quality education at a rea- resides in Brooklyn.

COLORS - CMYK Blue – C:100 M:57 Y:0 K:38 Yellow – C:0 M:17 Y:80 K:0 March 2011 • Queensstart – 0% yellow Family 9 midpoint – 25% end – 100% yellow camps

Graduating up to sleep-away camp

By Laurie roBerts KaroL ing a camp is assessing your child’s tunity to meet directors and head interests, strengths and personality counselors. You’ll also get the op- our child has gone to day in order to find the best program, in portunity to compare and contrast camp, and now he wants to the best location, for the appropriate the many aspects of camping. Y try sleep-away camp. How do length of time to suit your child’s — Spending time at each camp will you decide if he is ready? And how and your family’s — needs. It can be also help your child. Many younger do you choose which type of camp overwhelming and daunting to cull children hear about sleep-away will be right for him? from the many options that are avail- camp from babysitters, children at You may turn to the Yellow Pages, able to children during the summer. school, or older kids. If there is no the Internet, friends, or to relatives. If possible, visit the camps. Each one in your family who has gone And they all may have different sug- camp has its own strengths and to camp, the thought of sleep-away gestions — “Go for single sex,” “You re- philosophies, so by spending time at camp might conjure up all sorts of ally want co-ed,” “All sports, he’ll love a camp, you can get a sense of how images in your child’s mind. Even if it,” “You need a well-rounded camp.” your child would fare in that environ- he is resistant to the idea of sleeping The most important part of choos- ment. Plus, this gives you an oppor- away during the summer, visiting a

10 Queens Family • March 2011 camp now may eliminate the fear looking to prepare for college or of the unknown and spark enthusi- careers have tremendous options asm. Many camps may even allow today. There are many programs the him to stay overnight, or available on college campuses even attend camp for sev- both in the United States and eral days. abroad. Students can take Camps and summer courses that interest programs range from tradi- them — sometimes for tional to travel, academic to college credit — and special needs, sports to fine arts preview what life is like and religious — not to mention as a college student. co-ed, single sex, half-summer Summer Day Camp only, full-summer only, flexible Language weeks — the list is endless. immersion For Your Child’s Summer Here are some options: Whether it’s living with a family in a home stay, taking Recreational Needs Traditional camps intensive language classes, or trav- These camps offer a tremen- eling in a foreign country, many AGES 4 TO 14 dous variety of activities and spe- opportunities exist to learn a new are invited aboard cial events, from color war to inter- language or improve upon a lan- camp tournaments to barbecues. guage of study. Typically, traditions, songs and ac- Fly The Magic Carpet tivities are passed down through Community service the generations of campers. These From Tanzania to New Orleans, camps are generally located in service options exist domestically To A Fun-Filled Summer! rural settings and provide a range and in many areas around the of living conditions and facilities. world. A teen can participate in a All Inclusive Rates construction project, help children • Door to Door Transportation Specialty camps in an orphanage, work with senior 2-8 Week Whether it’s sports, fine and per- citizens, assist in an animal shelter, • Small Groups • Private Pools forming arts, outdoor wilderness, teach, or work on environmental • Spacious Indoor & Outdoor Play Areas Sessions academic, or travel camps, these projects. Available specialty camps provide campers • Exciting Trips & Special Events - Daily! with a single focus to help them de- Internships • Drama • Lunch & Snack velop skills. Campers benefit from Teens can live in a city of their small groups and intensive instruc- choice and get real hands-on work • Personal Attention tion in their area of focus. experience in a field of interest. We teach skills in the following sports: Internships are available in many • Swimming – learn to swim Special-needs fields including fashion, advertis- OPEn camps ing, law, medicine, and real estate. HOuSES • Basketball • Tennis Children with special needs gain By working in the corporate world, • Soccer • Softball a sense of independence in a secure teens can gain independence, self- Most Please Call environment at these overnight knowledge, and experiences to Sundays • Touch Football For Dates, Time, camps. The owners, directors and help shape their search for college and Location staff at special needs camps are and for life beyond. well equipped to understand and • • • manage problems that may arise. While the task may be daunt- Family Owned And Operated Their low staff-to-camper ratio and ing, being an educated parent will LIcEnSED PROFESSIOnAL SuPERvISIOn nurturing environment provide make the decision-making process these children with an experience much easier. Being able to compare REASOnABLE RATES they won’t soon forget. and contrast the many programs Beautiful “Air conditioned” Bayside/Flushing Location will help narrow down the choices. Teen tours When the suitable camp or pro- call For More Information 718.634.8109 For adolescents entering sixth gram is selected, it will provide grade and older, teen tours pro- growth in your child through the www.magiccarpetdaycamp.com vide lifetime experiences that help acquisition of new skills, new rela- them build confidence, gain inde- tionships, and, most importantly, pendence and hone their social cherished memories. skills. Tours can last from two Laurie Roberts Karol is a former to six weeks and range from U.S. camp director and is currently a profes- trips to trips in Canada, Alaska, sional camp consultant with The Camp Europe, Australia and beyond. Experts and Teen Summers, a free Shorter regional trips are available advisory service that guides families to younger teens, while older teens through the decision-making process can explore places and cultures and assists in planning summer camp around the world. visitations. For more information, visit www.campexperts.com. Contact Lau- Pre-college study rie at (516) 780-6464, (718) 766-8005, High school students who are or [email protected].

March 2011 • Queens Family 11 Camps The perfect camp

ou are beginning to search families are with camp directors, the out if the camp program is inspected 10 questions for a summer camp for your better informed they will be when it each summer by the Department of Y child, but with all of the op- comes to making a decision. Health. Understand what it means to to ask when tions, how do you choose? The good What is your camp’s program? be accredited by the American Camp news: there is a camp for every Consider what activities are must- Association. The Association is the child with any interest. But as a par- haves for your child. Then ask the only national organization that estab- researching a ent, you want to make sure you are director how many electives the chil- lishes uniform standards for review- choosing the right camp program for dren get and what kind of help they ing camps, so ask if this program has summer camp your child. Where do you start? receive in choosing them. How long chosen to participate. The American Camp Association, is each activity? Sensitivity to camper needs: New York and New Jersey, recom- What type of training and edu- Ask how the camp handles special mends that families talk to the camp cation do you and your staff have? considerations for your child such as director and ask the following 10 The American Camp Association food allergies, religious obligations, questions before choosing a sum- recommends directors possess a Attention Deficit Disorder, vegetar- mer camp: bachelor’s degree, have completed ian food options, etc. in-service training within the What are the policies on par- past three years, and have at ent-camper communication while least 16 weeks of camp ad- in camp? For resident camp, can ministrative experience before you send and receive e-mails from assuming the responsibilities your child? Can you call and talk to of director. At a minimum, the child during his time at camp? camp staff should be trained Ask for references from the in safety regulations, emer- camp Parents shouldn’t be afraid gency procedures and com- to ask for references. This is gener- munication, behavior manage- ally one of the best ways to check ment techniques, child abuse a camp’s reputation and service prevention, appropriate staff record. Ask other parents about and camper behavior, and spe- the experiences of their children cific procedures for supervi- at the camp. Find out if the chil- sion. Families should ask about dren seemed comfortable in talking camper-to-staff ratios, and su- about their experiences with staff pervision in cabins and for var- and campers. Ask if they are going ious activities, like swimming back the next summer. Ask if the and athletics. parent was pleased with the com- Enrollment options: What munication received from the camp. is the length of the program Ask these parents for the names of offered? Is there flexibility? other parents and children who have What is the length of the day? attended the camp. What is your camp’s philosophy Is transportation available? . . . and program emphasis? Can the di- What is the staff composition? Whatever your child’s interests rector easily explain the program’s Who is caring for your child? Ask may be, and whatever standards you mission statement and goals? Ask the about age, experience, pre-season may have, there is a summer camp director about the type of child that and on-going staff training, child out there for your family. It just takes is a successful participant in her pro- abuse training, background checks, a bit of research. gram. Each camp is unique, and pro- the interview process, and camper- The American Camp Association has vides unique programming and ap- staff ratios. been serving the camp community and proaches. Families need to consider What are the safety procedures? families for 100 years. To find the right carefully whether or not the camp’s Ask about the safety measures that camp for your child, visit www.campwiz- philosophy matches their own. Asking are in place for things like medical per- ard.org, or call (800) 777-CAMP for free, questions about learning approaches, sonnel on property, emergency plans one-on-one advice in finding a summer how behavioral and disciplinary prob- (i.e. evacuation, inclement weather), camp. American Camp Association-ac- lems are handled, and how adjust- staff screening procedures, and in- creditation is a parent’s best evidence ment issues are addressed will give structor qualifications. of a camp’s commitment to health and families a better understanding of the Is your camp accredited? Find out safety, and ensures that children are camp’s position. Don’t be afraid to ask if the program follows a nationally- provided with a diversity of educational about policies regarding discipline known accreditation process. Ask for and developmentally-challenging learn- and communication. The more open those standards to be outlined. Find ing opportunities.

12 Queens Family • March 2011 Get off the couch and get some fresh air! No need for video ggames when you can have more fun with your new friends at OasisO Queens in Astoria! OasiO s Queens in Astoria offers boys and girls ages 4-14 a summer experience unrivaledu by even the most expensive private day camp programs. This location offerso campers an array of activities in a safe, exciting and nurturing environment. OasiO s campers develop teamwork skills, friendships and most importantly have fun! � Many Special Events: dance parties, visual & performing arts, field trips and so much more � Experienced Counselors: dedicated role models & mentors college age and older � 1:6 Counselor to Camper ratio: children are always supervised and attended � Expansive Facility: access to the 65 acre Astoria Park, basketball courts, outdoor track and sport fields, playgrounds and multiple nature trails � Nutritional Snacks: provided on the premises daily � Bus & Shuttle Service: available for pick-ups & drop-offs at select locations Campers come in to new friends and leave with lifelong memories. Come enjoy the summer at Oasis Queens in Astoria!

Oasis Queens in Astoria Better than video games!

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March 2011 • Queens Family 13 PROOF PROOF

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Give your child a summer of Happy Memories & Happy Days! Summer Programs Inviting All Counselor/ Children DIRECTORY Camper Ages 4-14 Ratio 3:1 all star studios Beth Sholom Day Camp offers boys 108-12 72nd Avenue, Forest Hills and girls, ages 2-15, the opportunity to 718-268-2280 or www. reach their goals in a warm, friendly, allstarstudiosnyc.com and noncompetitive atmosphere. Call for All Star Studios is more than just a dance Activities include music, dance, com- 1-8 Week Special January studio; Theater, Triple Threat, and Acro puters, gymnastics, Young Israelites classes are also offered. Dance classes arts and crafts and karate, as well as Sessions Only Rates! include Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Hip hop for all outdoor field sports, tennis, and Available children starting from age 3 to adults. an Adventure park Experience. Red Celebrating their 7thseason in Forest Hills Cross swim instruction is offered in (formerly Just East of Broadway), this our 3 heated pools. A unique C.I.T. ALL INCLUSIVE RATES rapidly growing studio never loses sight of (Counselors In Training) program is • Door-to-door transportation • Weekly trips their philosophy of keeping the fun in the available for 9th and 10th graders. • Lunches proudly prepared (Bowling, movies and much more) arts. Why choose them? Small teacher- Older boys and girls in grades 5-8 participate in the Sports Academy by Buddy’s Kosher Deli • Exciting, fun weekly excursions student ratio, superior customer service, and Tween Experience. These pro- • Beautiful air-conditioned indoor facility (Amusement parks, indoor rec facilities) great relationships with their students, and their ability to instill a love of the arts grams blend day trips to Splish Splash, • Swimming at a private pool club • Open Houses Weekly in their students! Adventureland, baseball games, and shows, with all regular camp activities. aviator sports and They also go on two overnight trips. OWNER/DIRECTOwner/Director:OR: AndyANDY Foss FOSS Recreation The camp provides excellent supervi- DirectorDirector Magic Carpet Carpet Day Day Camp Camp 2005-2010 Hangar 5 at Floyd Bennett Field sion, with a counselor-child ratio of 4:1. Asst.Asst. Director Magic Magic Carpet Carpet 2001-2005 718-758-7550 or www. Beth Sholom serves hot, Glatt Kosher GroupGroup Leader & Assistant Boys Boys Head Head Counselor Counselor aviatorsummercamps.com lunches in an air-conditioned lunch- CampCamp BrookwoodBrookwood 1995-1997 Aviator Sports and Recreation is offer- room, and we are a nut-free environ- GroupGroup Leader (Kutchers (Kutchers Camp Camp Anawana) Anawana) 1990-1995 ing an All Star Day Camp and a variety ment. Door-to-door, air conditioned LicensedLicensed NYC NYC Teacher Teacher Since 19951995 of specialty sport camps this summer transportation is also provided. Beth catering to ages 3-17. The All Star Day Sholom also offers full and mini-day camp will be offering instruction in rock nursery-kindergarten programs. Call for more information 718-888-0264 climbing, gymnastics, and ice skating WWW.XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX.COMwww.HappyDaysCamp.com along with a variety of sports, group Central Queens ym-yWHa games, field trips and craft activities. 67-09 108th St., Forest Hills OUTDOOR SUMMER DAYCAMP for The sports camps specialize in ice-skating, children ages 5 to 15 years. Welcome basketball, soccer, lacrosse and ice hockey. to quality outdoor camping programs! Camp hours are 9 am to 4 pm, both pre Campers ride on our air conditioned & and post camp supervision is available NYC GIFTED TALENTED school buses to arrive at our stunning along with transportation service from 375 acres of campgrounds and nature Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan. PROGRAM PREP trails in Huntington, Long Island. There Searching for a summer program that will provide your “Belle arti” Center for the is an optional Kosher lunch program child with stimulating, academic enrichment? arts, l.l.C. for grades Kindergarten through 5th Kent Prep is proud to offer a Gifted and Talented 108-10 72nd Avenue, Forest Hills, grades and a daily Kosher snack is provided. A registered nurse is on staff Summer Program for current Pre-K to 1st graders. 718-261-2237 or www.belleartiny. com at the campgrounds and many of our Have your child excel and be prepared for the 2011 Is the first and only music school of staff and administrators are CPR and new school year! Call (718) 423-5757 to learn more European heritage in Forest Hills. Under First Aid certified. Shaded campsite about our summer and on-going yearly G&T programs the direction of two internationally areas and comfortable shelters are or visit www.kentprep.com. renowned concert pianists, husband provided. Mature, experienced and and wife, Massimiliano Facchini and skilled counselors and unit heads. Activities include: Daily Red Cross swim • Date: Summer I (Jul. 5~Aug. 11) Claudette Munné, “Belle Arti” offers instruction in our 4 pools; sports on Summer II (Aug. 22~Sept. 1) a curriculum that follows the methods used in the most famous music con- our athletic fields, including soccer, bas- • Days & Time: Mon. - Thurs. servatories in Europe and the United ketball, tetherball, wiffleball and more; 9:00 am~2:15 pm States. Our teachers are all graduates arts & crafts; playground areas; Jewish from such leading music schools as Culture; nature center; exciting weekly 718.423.5757 Manhattan School of Music, Mannes trips to such places as Adventureland, KENT PREP College of Music, and The Juilliard Hot Skates, Fun Zone, Liberty Science 194-11A Northern Blvd. School and European music conservato- Center and more, depending on age. ries. We offer lessons on piano, violin, For a brochure contact Mitch Karpp, cello, guitar, voice, woodwinds, music Director of Youth Services, 718-268- theory and Musical Aurora®, a unique 5011, x201, or email Mkarpp@cqyjcc. music program for children between org. ALTERNATIVE INDOOR SUMMER the ages of 2 to 5. Two recitals a year of ARTS & SPORTS PROGRAM for are organized at Flushing Town Hall and children ages 5 through 11 years. Your students are encouraged to take a jury child can partake in a fun-filled sum- Find Family online at exam, giving them the opportunity to mer adventure combining the best they demonstrate their technical and musical have to offer in creative and perform- achievements. ing arts, sports, swimming and fitness. www.webfamilyny.com With our flexible schedule, campers can Beth sholom Day Camp enroll for full-days or half-days, one to 401 Roslyn Road, 516-621-9257 or seven full weeks of summer fun. Some www.bethsholomdaycamp.com of the program’s options include clay 14 Queens Family • March 2011 FLEX PASS Summer Programs AGES 18 Months – 14 Years WEEKSOFDROP INCLASSES -ONDAYn&RIDAY DIRECTORY "UYA0ASSOF ORUNLIMITED SEASONPASSFORONLY workshops, painting, science, dance, Please call for more information and SUMMER CAMP drama, cooking, swim instruction, gym- dates and locations of our open houses. !'%31/ – 14 YEARS 77-02 37 Ave. nastics, basketball, baseball, hockey, Jackson Heights, NY Kent Prep martial arts and more. For a complete s3/##%2s-53)#!243 schedule and brochure, contact Dale 194-11A Northern Blvd., Flushing Stark, Director of Health & Fitness, 718- 718-423-5757 or www.kentinstitute. s"/5.#9(/53%s302).+,%23 268-5011, x501, email: Dstark@cqyjcc. com org. FOR CHILDREN AGES 3 to 5 call Summer does not mean learning should WEEKSsWEEKS Robin Kaufman, Manager of Parenting be put on hold! July 5th – August 11th WEEKS Department, at x482 for information (Summer I) & August 22nd – September on our Nearly Camp and Nursery Camp 1st (Summer II) Kent Prep offers a WWWSUPERKICKERSCOMs programs. Gifted and Talented Summer Program for current Pre-K to 1st graders. Your Christ the King summer child will be exposed to developmen- Camp tally appropriate G&T enrichment cur- 68-02 Metropolitan Avenue, 718- riculum that will set them forth in the 366-7400 Ext. 313 or www.ctkce.org upcoming school year. Call to learn Summer camp Looking for a summer camp? Find 3 more about our summer and fall 2011 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. exciting programs to choose from at G&T programs! Reasonable Rates! Open House Christ the King! Certified Counselors! April 26,2009 Kew-Forest school 10am-2pm Royals Basketball Camp bring together Refreshments 119-17 Union Turnpike, Forest Hills Arts & Crafts! will be served young players from all over the area in 718-268-4667 extension 114 or SUMMER7:00a.m.–6:00p.m. CAMP Trips! • 3 Meals per-day! an environment that will teach them www.kewforest.org Reasonable Rates! Certified Counselors! the skills of the game as an individual boys & Girls Ages Offers an idyllic summer children enter- Summer and stressing the idea of being a part • Ages 2-12 • Swimming • Arts & Crafts 2 to 12 Are invited Aboard of a team. ing grades K-6 enjoy a full-day program give yOuR day camp 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. featuring mornings • 2 Trips per week • Enrichment • 3 MealsCHild per A day Call Now To Register American Dance & Drama Camp SuMMer To of academics and afternoons of rec- reMeMber includes activities such as ballet, tap, reation, or a half day of either option. Call Now To Register 718-276-3722 • 516-805-4202 718. 276. 3722/516. 805. 4202 jazz, hip hop, acrobatics, arts/crafts, Academic sessions focus on enrichment 247-11 Francis Lewis blvd. • rosedale, Queens drama, vocal and much more. Full & in reading, writing, and math; recre- 247-11 Francis Lewis Blvd. Rosedale, Queens half days available. ation options range from computer lab Aviator Summer Camp transportation to tennis to swimming, cheerleading/ to & from Aviator Sports and Event dance to martial arts and field trips. For Center. Ice skating, rock climbing, teens, grades 7-12, there’s a Summer swimming, weekly field trips, and much Institute and C.I.T. program. Register for more. Call for special open house and half- or full-day sessions, by the week pricing information. or for the full eight weeks. CENTRAL QUEENS YM&YWHA The Crayon Box Preschool Kidz yoga SUMMER CAMPS 44-10 192nd Street, Flushing 27-14 23rd Avenue, Astoria. 718-888-9341 or www. 347-455-3661 or visit www. crayonboxpreschool.com kidzyoga.net Offers a fun and enriching summer Tina Mavrelis-Charalambous always had program for children 2.9 to 5 years old. a vision of keeping kids fit and healthy! At the Crayon Box Preschool, learn- “As a proud member of our commu- ing and fun are all rolled into one! All nity, I would like to give back the gift teachers are NYS certified with a great of health to our area.” With that mis- teacher/student ratio. They offer hours sion in mind, Kidz Yoga offers a roster and programs to fit all schedules, as of classes for ages 5 months to adult. well as family discounts. They are cur- Foe children, programs include Yoga, rently registering for Summer Camp ASK ABOUT OUR EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT PRICES Capoeira, Zumba, Mommy & Me and and September 2011. Call or visit their Mommy & Me Bootcamp. Classes for website for more information. adults include TRX Suspension Training, Happy Days Day Camp Yoga, Capoeira, Zumba, Fitness Boxing NURSERY CAMP 718-888-0264 or www. and more. The center is also available PIONEER DAY CAMP happydaysdaycamp.com children’s birthday parties. Kids can At Happy Days day camp we never lose choose from a theme such as beach, Ʉ sight of our job, which is to take care of farm zoo, princess, pajama, spa party TEEN TRAVEL CAMP your most prized possessions your chil- and many more. dren. At Happy Hays we foster a caring Parties include entertainment, face CAMP POYNTELLE (SLEEP AWAY CAMP) nurturing environment where children painting, funhouse bouncer, dancing can feel safe and make friendships that and many games and activities. NEARLY NURSERY CAMP can last a lifetime. Happy Days day SUMMER OF ARTS & SPORTS camp offers an all inclusive day camp Kimmy ma aRTstudio where transportation, lunches, trips and 190-19 Union Turnpike, Fresh a 3 to 1 camper to counselor ratio are Meadows, 646-209-9352 or www. kimmyma-artstudio.com or Email: all provided by an experienced staff. ANOTHER QUALITY COMMUNITY CENTER OF THE SAMUEL FIELD Y! Our indoor facility is spacious and air- [email protected] Her studio is dedicated for art instruc- ƂƃƠżƅɄŽżƄɄƇɄɄ ƇɄɄŽŽſƃƁɄƌɄƃŽƄƠžƂƄƠƁżŽŽƇɄžżž conditioned. Our meals are top notch WWW.CENTRALQUEENSY.ORG with catered meals provided daily by tions in paintings and drawings for Buddy’s kosher delicatessen of bayside. Continued on page 16 March 2011 • Queens Family 15

HHQV)DPLO\B&2/LQGG 3 O ne B o ES f t Va T he THEATRE ARTS lue Cam T A s p Summer Programs in N YC CENTER DIRECTORY MUSICAL THEATRE & DANCE ACTING Continued from page 15 In Oasis programs, children have the TH ST TH TH Musical Theatre: July 5 - 31 / Teen Acting: June 27 - July 24 youth and adult. Young learners are opportunity to explore, learn from adult encouraged art making in an artistically role models, develop self-confidence, AGES 7 to 19 * supportive and constructive learning use their imagination, and find adventure in a safe environment! Oasis is for Ì Perform in a fully-staged show in environment. an 800-seat Professional Theatre! Younger & Young ARTIST PROGRAM boys and girls ages 4-11. Our popular for School Year Schedule: September Teen Travel program is offered for ages Ì Learn with Show Biz Pro’s from through June, Mondays-Fridays after 12 to 14. Oasis programs include sports B’way, Regional Theatre, TV & Film! 3:30pm & Saturdays 9-4p. and recreation, visual and performing arts, swimming, field trips, an outdoor Ì 4 Companies by Age & Ability! Winter Break 2/21-2/25 & Summer education component that includes Full day with your age group! Mornings 7/6-8/19: Mini ART Club environmental studies, orienteering and (Grade K & up): explore arts, crafts, much more! Bring the entire family to Ì Two Options for Teens— designs, collages & ink. Opt to attend 3 Musical Theatre/Dance OR an Info Session! Visit the Oasis website Acting Ensemble! or 5 half-days 9:45-noon. for site info, discounts, busing info, and Summer Afternoons 7/6-8/19: Younger IS online registration! PACE Ì Serious Fun for Talented S D. & Young Artist Program for Mondays to IMITE Young Performers! L DAY! Fridays 1-3pm & Sat. 10-noon. Our Kids Place summer LT O CAL Mrs. Ma holds M.A/Ed. from New York Camp University. Her Art also participated 247-11 Francis Lewis Blvd., Rosedale in Travel Exhibitions in Italy & various (718) 276- 3722 or www.

exhibitions in NYC. As a dedicated art ourkidsplacecares.com 718-595-2905 instructor and lecturer, she engages Our Kids Place Summer Camp, located actively in art forums and public arts in Rosedale, Queens has designed an TheatreArtsCenter.com projects in various schools and educa- eight week program to accommodate tion institutions in our Queens commu- campers’ ages three to eleven. During * BY AUDITION. Call for appointment. nity for the past decade. the eight weeks, your child will participate in educational enrichment which Broadway Caliber in a Suburban Campus Setting The learning Tree includes math and reading. Campers PROFESSIONAL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Middle Village, 718-899-2020 or will enjoy trips, arts & crafts, and sports QUEENSBOROUGH COMMUNITY COLLEGE — BAYSIDE, QUEENS, NYC www.thelearningtree.org activities such as swimming, tennis, soc- Learning Tree has been providing qual- cer, ballet, bowling, etc. Rest assured ity educational services since 1972. that your children will be under the Situated in Middle Village, the nurtur- careful watch of our certified and caring environment is safe, creative and ing counselors. Please call to register or non-competitive. Age-appropriate visit our website. Give your child a sum- curriculum, equipment, and positive mer they will never forget. social interaction are the nursery’s key successful elements. Nursery and super Kickers soccer Pre-Kindergarten programs for ages Camp 2011 13 Weeks OF CAMP sTArTing JUne 6Th 2-4, and camp programs for children 77-02 37th Ave, Jackson Heights 2-13 includes A/C facilities, and on-site www.superkickers.com swimming and instruction. After school Our Summer Camp is for Boys programs are also available. and Girls; we have Mornings and Afternoons Camps. SOCCER-ARTS- magic Carpet Day Camp MUSIC-BOUNCY HOUSE for kids Ages: 718-634-8109 or www. 2.5 TO 6 YRS, Time: 9 AM TO 1PM magicdaycamp.com INTENSIVE SOCCER for Ages: 7 TO 14 Magic Carpet Day Camp is getting YRS, Time: 1 PM TO 5 PM. 2 weeks: ready to board and its destination is $400, 4 weeks: $700, 6 weeks: $1050, a Summer of Fun for boys and girls 8 weeks: $1200. Registration is open! ages 4 to 14. There will be a new We also have Drop-in class everyday in and exciting adventure each day. This the summer and packages are 10, 20, summer, the “flight plan” will take 30 or unlimited classes and you can use you to the following landing zones: your Flex Pass any day you want. Adventureland, Fun Zone, Mad Science, Bounce U, Pump-It-Up, bowling and Fee: $150 to $360. Go Online and first run movies. choose the best package for your child. Magic Carpet provides a wide variety of Public transportation available; R, V, F, popular summer sports. Music, arts and E, 7, at Roosevelt Ave Station. crafts, drama, dance and dance instruc- Theatre arts Center tion are also part of the fun. In Summer Residence at Door to door transportation, on-site hot Professional Performing Arts Center lunch, and a T-shirt and tote bag are Queensborough Community College, provided. Bayside, Queens 718-595-2905 or www. Oasis in Bayside TheatreArtsCenter.com at Queensborough Professional quality close to home. Community College You’re center stage in a four-week 718-596-4900 or www.oasischildren. Performing Arts Workshops for tal- com Continued on page 18 16 Queens Family • March 2011 at Christ the King HS www.ctkce.org Three Popular Programs to Choose From Royals Basketball Camp Boys & Girls Ages 7 to 16 s"OYS7EEK!UGUSTn s'IRLS7EEK!UGUSTn s"OYS7EEK!UGUSTn &ORMOREINFORMATIONCALL*OSEPH!RBITELLO Xs2OYALS"ASKETBALL CTKRHSORG

American Dance AVIATOR SUMMER CAMPS "OYS'IRLS!GESn & Drama Camp NEW "OYS'IRLS!GESTO s*UNETO!UGUST s*ULYTO!UGUST )CE3KATING 'YMNASTICS 0OOLS 3KY*UMP 2OCK#LIMBING +AYAKING &ORMOREINFORMATION &IELD4RIPS 3PORTS #ALL#ARA.ICOLE OVER 26 GREAT ACTIVITIES!!! 4RANSPORTATIONFROM#+TO!VIATOR ORCFRAGIAS CTKRHSORG &ORMOREINFORMATIONCALL X

March 2011 • Queens Family 17 Summer Programs The Learning Tree Now Registering For DIRECTORY FREE UNIVERSAL PRE-K (children born in 2007) Continued from page 16 Boulevard, Jamaica; 718-739-6600 or ented 7- to 19-year-olds. Three Musical www.ymcanyc.org/jamaica Nursery & Pre-K Programs for September 2011 Theatre/Dance Companies by age & Long Island City YMCA 32-23 Queens ability or Teen Acting Ensemble. Full Boulevard., LIC; 718-392-7932 or Extended Hours 7:00 am - 6:30 pm day (Mon – Fri) includes acting, musi- www.ymcanyc.org/lic; cal theatre/dance, voice, on-camera, 214-13 35th Avenue in Bayside 718- improv, and more. Learn with working 229-5972 Beacon Center at JHS 189 professionals from Broadway & beyond. 154-60 17th Avenue, Whitestone 718- Students perform in fully staged shows 961-6014 Beacon Center at JHS 194 for the public. Musical Theatre (ages 144-80 Barclay Avenue, Flushing 718- 7-19) July 5-August 1. Teen Acting 747-1364 Beacon Center @ MS210 Ensemble June 28-July 25. Fifth week cabaret workshop option for advanced 93-11 101st Avenue, Ozone Park 718- Registration Open for Summer Camp teen vocalists. One of the best values 659-7710 in NYC! By audition. Space is limited. YMCA of Greater New York Day Camps call for open house dates Robert Laconi & Kristine Lewis, Artistic provide youth with supervised activities SPORTS • FIELD TRIPS • MUSIC • DANCE • ARTS & CRAFTS Directors. that teach core values, conflict resolu- FILTERED POOL • SWIMMING INSTRUCTION ON PREMISES tion and leadership skills. Kids have fun The West side Tennis Club while making new friends, building self- Camp confidence, appreciating teamwork and Junior Group – Ages 2 to 4 1 Tennis Place, Forest Hills growing in self-reliance. Middle Group – Ages 5 to 6 718-268-2300 extension 127 or Their program includes playing games, Senior Group – Ages 7 to 13 www.foresthillstennis.com arts & crafts, exploring science and tech- Former home of the US Open, offers the nology, swimming, field trips, appreciat- PRIVATE GROUNDS premier tennis and swim camp in NYC. ing nature and values of many cultures. They offer juniors the opportunity to use All camps are accredited by the TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE state-of-the-art facilities: 39 courts, four American Camping Association. different surfaces, Junior Olympic swim- 74-15 Juniper Blvd. No., Middle Village Registration for Summer 2011 will be ming pool and historic stadium. 718-899-2020 • www.thelearningtree.org beginning soon. Please contact your The EXCEL Program includes three nearest YMCA of Greater New York hours of tennis instruction, two snacks, Day Camp for more information: catered lunch, swimming and supervised match play. The ELITE Tournament Team young People’s Day Camp includes all aspects of national level train- of Queens Kimmy Ma ing. The facility is two blocks from major 800-DAY-CAMP or 1-800-856- subway lines; transportation is also avail- 1043 or www.ypdc.com or www. able from Manhattan and Queens. queenscamp.com ARTStudio Have you played at Forest Hills? Since 1972, our family run camp has provided safe, fun-filled summers for ymCa of Greater new thousands of Queens youngsters. york Day Camps YPDC of Queens is accredited by the Launching Creative Minds Catalpa Center YMCA 69-02 64th American Camping Association, the Street, Ridgewood; 718-821-6271 or New York Camp Directors Association Embrace Originality & Build Confidence www.ymcanyc.org/catalpa and is supervised by licensed teachers via Creative Process. Cross Island YMCA 238-10 Hillside and administrators. The camp’s philoso- Avenue, Bellerose; 718-479-0505 or phy is to “grow” children intellectu- www.ymcanyc.org/cross Younger Kids Art & Young Artist Program ally, physically, and spiritually in a FUN Flushing YMCA 138-46 Northern environment. For children, ages 4 to 15. Art Instructions in Painting & Drawing Boulevard., Flushing; 718-961-6880 Free transportation available. Choose Afterschool & Weekends or www.ymcanyc.org/flushing from 2 to 8 weeks of camp. Ask about Jamaica YMCA 89-25 Parsons our Special Discounts. Leisure ART Club Adult Art Enthusiasts & Parent Groups Summer Youth ART Club Monday-Friday (Explore Ink, Painting, Drawing, Calligraphy & Designs) Mini ART Club 9:45am-Noon Technique Workshops 1-3pm MUSIC LESSONS FOR ALL AGES! Kindermusik • Guitar • Vocal Ensembles • Adult Classes • Piano • Voice • Guitar • Violin • Viola Instructions by Mrs. Ma, a well recognized Art Educator, Master of Art in the School of Education from NYU Cello • Bass • Flute • Clarinet • Saxophone • Oboe • French Horn • Trumpet • Trombone • Baritone Tuba • Percussion • Drums • Dance & More! 190-19 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadow, NY 11366 (30% of our Students are Adults / 10% OFF for Senior Citizens) For curriculum & program description, WWW.JOESMUSICCENTER.ORG JOE’S MUSIC ACADEMY LOCATIONS visit www.kimmyma-artstudio.com 114-04 Farmers Blvd. 545 Brooklyn Ave Joe’s Music Store 646-209-9352 • [email protected] St. Albans, NY 11412 Brooklyn, NY 11225 114-02 Farmers Blvd. 718-454-3036 718-774-0700 St. Albans, NY 11412 | 718-454-3030

18 Queens Family • March 2011 FOREST HILLS KIDS CORNERTM Register Now for Summer Classes Let Your Child Learn From the Best

Instrumental Instruction Dance & Theater Arts Voice & Music Theory

718.261.2237 718.268.2280 Begins Tuesday, July 5 www.BellArtiNY.com www.AllStarStudiosNYC.com Ends Friday, August 26 108-10 72nd ave 108-12 72nd ave On-site water and outdoor play

Enrollment begins March 2011 for Summer and September 2011

For Children Ages 2 to 15 Our 47th Year! Incredible Facilities Stimulating Activities • 30 Acres • 6 Ball Fields • 3 Heated Pools • Swimming Instruction • Game Room & Gym • Air Conditioned • All Sports Instruction Indoor Activities & Dining Room • Tennis • Scuba • Crafts • Glatt Kosher Meals • Nut Free • Music • Dance • Computer • State-of-the-Art Early Childhood Center Special Events Nursery • Kindergarten Exciting & Educational Trips • Full Day & Mini Day Kindergarten • Sports Academy for Boys: • Flexible 4-8 Week Sessions Grades 5-8 • Professional • Tween Experience for Girls: • Air Conditioned Door-To-Door Grades 5-8 Transportation • Unique CIT Program: Grades 9-10

Open Daily Director: Ginger Bloom Facility From Tours! 516-621-9257 Call for Appt. 10am-2pm www.bethsholomdaycamp.com & Directions 401 Roslyn Road • Roslyn Heights, NY 11577

March 2011 • Queens Family 19 specialSPECIAL needs NEEDS Some ‘Special’ advice Tips for getting the most from public schools

BY JOANNA DELBUONO what’s best for their kid, and Cutler with a teacher; how to get the best provides the means in an empathetic, possible Individualized Education ou, Your Child, candid way so that parents can take Program from the first notice to the and Special advantage of the necessary programs final resolution and most impor- “Y Education,” by for their special needs child. tantly, how to say “no” and fight for Barbara Coyne Cutler, is In this latest revision, parents their child’s rights if the individual- an informative guide for learn not only the legal entitlements ized program is not acceptable. And parents of special needs and available options, but how they finally, she offers advice on how to children. The book, in can best provide the most appropri- monitor and implement the child’s simple and easy-to-read ate education, from Pre-K through program. language, helps these graduation and beyond. Cutler also provides listings of parents negotiate the Cutler offers straightforward ad- hundreds of disability-related orga- often murky and con- vice and step-by-step instructions nizations and agencies, associations fusing waters of the on how to arrange, prepare for and and groups, and the appendix full of public education sys- conduct classroom observations; on Web sites is an invaluable resource tem. Cutler offers en- how the school system works and guide that can be easily accessed couragement as par- how to navigate the power struc- through your computer. ents wade through ture of the school system, including “You, Your Child, and Special Educa- the tangles and webs of bu- school politics and the best way to tion: A Guide to Dealing with the Sys- reaucratic red tape to get the best effectively negotiate with school per- tem,” Revised Edition by Barbara Coyne possible services for their child. sonnel; how to discuss your ques- Cutler with Sue Pratt; Brookes Publish- Let’s face it: every parent wants tions, concerns, and observations ing, 312 pages, $24.95.

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Whitestone Kew Gardens Hills 172-20 26th Avenue 70-18 Main Street Flushing, NY 11358 Kew Gardens Hills, NY 11367 718.747.0393 718.575.9300 www.straightenwithbraces.com

March 2011 • Queens Family 21 HealtH Having a baby on her own One woman’s By Allison Plitt t 37-years-old, Leslie, choice of a Queens resident, A had a successful career and was ready to be a artificial mother. But she didn’t have a partner to join her in conceiv- insemination ing a child, and Leslie was very aware that her biological clock was ticking. “I was the great aunt — successful in my career, could take my nieces and nephews here and there, buy them whatever, and then they’d go home,” Leslie said. “I kind of always saw myself with a child, but I didn’t have any serious boyfriends. I decided I wanted to have a child on my own.” The first option Leslie considered was artificial insemination, or intrauterine insemination, a procedure by which she could choose from two different like skinny’ because everybody in sperm is placed into her reproduc- “cryobanks” — laboratories where my family was fat.” tive tract to impregnate her. To sperm and other tissues are stored Leslie understood that, despite inquire about the process, Leslie at sub-zero temperatures — one in choosing her desired traits, there went to North Shore University Hos- Virginia and the other in California. was always the chance her child pital in Manhasset, Long Island. Leslie looked at the two web- would not inherit the father’s genes. The doctors there asked her sites and learned she was able to A fter choosing three possible sperm about her reasons for having a child choose the type of man the sperm donors, Leslie had her doctor go as well as her support network in came from — including his level of over them with her. caring for her baby. As Leslie ex- education. Her first choice, she was told, was plained to them her situation, the “There was one site called ‘doc- a no-go, because her doctor found doctors also checked her medical torate’ for men who had doctorates, that conceiving from that particu- history to make sure she did not and since I had always liked being lar donor could put her child at risk have gynecological problems. After around smart people, I chose the of contracting a certain illness. Her considering her case, they decided doctorate site,” she said. “I chose other choices didn’t have that risk, to go through with the procedure. ‘tall’ because everybody in my fam- and Leslie pressed on. The doctors informed her that ily was short, and I also chose ‘waif- During her next ovulation, she

22 Queens Family • March 2011 was inseminated with her second his children in the future, Leslie choice’s sperm two days in a row, — for economic reasons — chose but it was unsuccessful. The fol- a donor who did not wish to be lowing month, she opted to be contacted by any of his children. inseminated three times, at which “I wanted Kelly to meet her point she became pregnant. father, but I just couldn’t afford Smiles for Kids Leslie’s pregnancy went it,” Leslie said. “I have a lot of in- smoothly. When she went into formation about him. I have his PediatRic deNtistRY labor, her sister brought her to baby picture, essay questions he H the hospital where Leslie gave answered, things that he wrote, dental care For infants children birth to a baby girl, whom she and an audio CD of his voice.” teenagers & Patients with special Needs named Kelly. She has been rais- Kelly is registered on a website ing her in Queens for the past five that lists the children of specific years. sperm donors, and Leslie knows Kelly has no medical problems that her daughter has six siblings, 3 child Friendly environment and is thriving in school, but Les- including one whose birthday is lie confessed that raising a child close to her own. as a single parent The entire in- 3 Warm, caring staff has been challeng- semination pro- ing. cess cost Les- “Friends would “I kind of always lie $8,000. “The 3 Lcd televisions in all Rooms complain, ‘Oh, my sperm that I chose husband doesn’t saw myself with a cost $350, so it do anything, he cost $500 each 3 doesn’t help.’ But I child, but I didn’t time I got insemi- Kids’ toys, Video Games & Movies tell them, ‘You can have any serious nated, because I run to the store. I also had to pay the 3 can’t. If I’ve got to boyfriends. I doctor for the pro- Mt. sinai Hospital affiliation run to the store, cedure. I also had I’ve got to pack up decided I wanted to pay for the stor- 3 Kelly.’ ” age of the sperm, Pain Free Procedures But Leslie says to have a child on which was a one- she has only ex- time, $800 fee,” 3 perienced one my own.” Leslie explained. 24 Hour emergency services awkward moment “My insurance while being a sin- wouldn’t cover the 3 gle parent. expenses, because you need to special Needs children are Welcome “When Kelly was about 2-and- show you had been trying for at a-half, one of her teachers asked least six months to get pregnant 3 what Kelly should make for a Fa- [in order to quality].” Many insurance Plans accepted ther’s Day gift in class,” Leslie Although Leslie is raising Kelly said. “I told her Kelly has un- alone, she admits she feels lucky cles and a grandfather, and if she to have had support from friends ever had any other questions, she and family who live nearby and could ask me.” have helped during sleepless And when Kelly recently asked nights and parenting crises. Les- about her father, Leslie was pre- lie has also been lucky to have a pared. job that has provided her with a “I’ve already talked to her steady income, especially during about how I didn’t have a husband the recent recession. and the nice man gave his seed,” Despite some of the difficulties Leslie said. “When she asks ‘Why she’s encountered in raising her FRee don’t I have a dad?’ I always an- daughter, Leslie is happy with the swer, ‘Well, I haven’t found — yet way things have turned out. “It Orthodontic — the right person to love, who was the best decision I ever made. will love us and we’ll love.’ ” I have never regretted it. I have exam Instead of focusing on the ab- the best daughter, we are a happy sence of a father, Leslie has pre- family and I am the luckiest mom ferred to talk with Kelly about in the world!” different kinds of families. She To find out more about artificial said, “I’m more into reading books insemination, you can visit the website about different types of families www.northshorelijivf.com. — some people just have a mom, Allison Plitt, a mother of a pre- Dr. Tsivas Kourtsounis, DDS some people just have a dad, how school-age daughter living in Queens, 18-15 Francis Lewis Blvd. • Whitestone, NY 11357 everybody’s family looks differ- is a staff writer for Family Publica- ent.” tions. If you have any ideas you’d like 718-746-1230 Because a donor’s sperm is to share with her about resources for 1150 Portion Road • Holtsville, NY 11742 more expensive when he indi- families in Queens, please contact her cates he would be willing to meet at [email protected]. 631-451-7700 MarchMonth 2011 2011 • • Queens XXXXX Family 23 HealtH Looking at eyes How vision problems can create trouble in school By Ilana Gelfond- learning-related vision problems — • B i n o c u l a r fusion: the ability to PolnarIev, od, fCovd may lead to poor school perfor- use both eyes together at the same mance and other issues that can time. f a child appears to be strug- ultimately affect the child’s quality • Stereopsis: binocular depth per- gling in school or performing of life. Early eye exams are critical ception (three-dimensional vision). I below his ability, a vision prob- for children in order to prevent a • C o l o r vision: the ability to differ- lem could be the cause. misdiagnosis. entiate colors. Vision problems that interfere The American Optometric Asso- At the completion of a thorough with a person’s ability to learn — ciation recommends a child have a evaluation, a combination of glasses, comprehensive vision exam vision therapy, and/or other multi- by 6 months of age, followed sensory intervention (occupational by one at 3 years of age, at therapy, physical therapy, speech 5, and every year that the therapy, etc.) may be recommended child is enrolled in school for the child. thereafter. An eye exam that tests distance vision is NOT What is vision an adequate evaluation of a therapy? child’s visual development. A Vision therapy addresses the child should have a thorough problems listed above that the child evaluation by a developmen- may be having and which are inter- tal optometrist, which is an fering with his learning process. optometrist who specializes Optometric vision therapy is an in dealing specifically with individualized treatment program testing for the visual skills prescribed for a patient in order to: critical to reading and learn- • Provide medically necessary ing, and with diagnosing and treatment for a diagnosed visual treating learning-related vi- dysfunction; sion problems. • Prevent the development of vi- A child’s comprehensive sual problems; or eye examination should in- • E n h a n c e visual performance to clude age-appropriate test- meet the defined needs of the pa- ing of the following visual tient. skills: Optometric vision therapy is an • Acuity-distance: visual appropriate treatment for visual acuity (sharpness, clearness) conditions including an eye turn, a at a distance of 20 feet. lazy eye, focusing problems, eye- • Acuity-near: visual acu- teaming problems, tracking and ity for short distance (spe- scanning problems, and visual per- cifically, reading distance). ceptual disorders. • Focusing skills: the abil- The systematic use of lenses, ity of the eyes to change prisms, filters, occlusion and other focus and maintain clear vi- appropriate materials, modalities, sion at varying distances. equipment and procedures is inte- • Eye tracking and fixation gral to optometric vision therapy. skills: the ability of the eyes The goals of the optometric ther- to look at and accurately fol- apy are to alleviate the signs and low an object; this includes symptoms, achieve desired visual the ability to move the eyes outcomes, meet the patient’s needs across a sheet of paper while and improve the patient’s quality of reading. life, as defined by the American Op- • Convergence and eye tometric Association. teaming skills: the ability of Early diagnosis of a child’s learn- the eyes to aim, move and ing-related vision problem can make work as a coordinated team. all the difference in improving that

24 Queens Family • March 2011 Symptons of possible Does Your Child’s Eyesight vision problems Make the Grade? The College of Optometrists in Vision Development designed the Vision problems are a leading cause of following chart for parents and teachers: poor school performance. So make sure your child can see clearly. SymptomS poSSible viSion problem Make an appointment today for a complete eye exam. • Complains of blurred vision Nearsightedness, farsighted- • Emergency Care Available • Rubs eyes frequently ness, or astigmatism (inability • Squints to see clearly in the distance or up • Convenient Evening and Saturday Hours close) • Most insurance Plans including Healthplus, Fidelis, Affinity, AmeriChoice, • Closes or covers one eye Eye coordination problems (in- AmeriGroup, Healthfirst, Neighborhood and Medicaid are accepted. • Occasionally sees double ability to coordinate the eyes to- • We provide transportation for our qualified patients (call for details). • Able to read for only a short time gether effectively) • We speak Spanish, Russian, Thai and Hindi • Poor reading comprehension • Medical and Surgical • Infections • Holds things very close Eye focusing problems (inability • Complains of blurred vision to easily refocus eyes or maintain Eye Care • Eye Trauma • Poor reading comprehension clear focus) • Routine Eye Exams • On-site Laser Surgery • Says eyes are tired • Diabetes • Contact Lens Fitting • Able to read for only a short time • Has headaches when reading • Moves head excessively when reading Eye tracking problems (inad- • Frequently loses place and/or skips equate ability to smoothly and accu- lines when reading rately move the eyes from one point NY EMPIRE MEDICAL P.C. Eye Care Center • Uses finger to keep place to another) • Poor reading comprehension Dr. Panus Romsaitong, Ophthamologist • Short attention span 98-76 Queens Blvd., Suite LLI Rego Park, NY 11374 • Mistakes words with similar Faulty visual form perception 718.897.0300 • www.nyempiremedical.com beginnings (inability to discriminate differences Entrance from the left side of the building next to the flower shop • Difficulty recognizing letters, words, in size, shape, or form) or simple shapes and forms • Can’t distinguish the main idea from insignificant details • Trouble learning basic math concepts of size, magnitude, and position Give • Trouble visualizing what is read Faulty visual memory (inability • Poor reading comprehension to remember and understand what Your Child A Healthy • Poor speller is seen) • Trouble with mathematical concepts Make an Appointment • Poor recall of visually presented Future. material today! • Sloppy handwriting and drawing Faulty visual motor integration • Reputable and • Can’t stay on lines (inability to process and reproduce experienced dentists • Poor copying skills visual images by writing or drawing) • Gentle, friendly and • Can respond orally but not in writing caring staff • Trouble learning right and left Difficulty with laterality and di- • Excellence in Dentistry • Reverses letters and words rectionality (poor development of of ALL types for • Trouble writing and remembering left/right awareness) ALL ages letters and numbers • Flexible evening and weekend hours child’s quality of life. of New York College of Optometry. She Dr. Ilana Gelfond-Polnariev is is a recipient of the honorary award Free Dental exam! board-certified in vision development for extensive knowledge in behavioral and vision therapy. She is currently vision therapy, and has published and Call to schedule your child’s free appointment a New York State coordinator for the lectured on children’s vision. College of Optometrists in Visual De- For more information, and to find 146-10 45th Ave. | Flushing, NY 11355 | 718-445-7600 velopment and specializes in pediat- an optometrist in your area, visit www. 1-888-WE-PREFER | www.PDC.GS - (GS for a great smile) ric vision, vision therapy, and head covd.org. trauma rehabilitation for children and Dr. Ilana Gelfond-Polnariev [Allied We are here to help you adults. A 2002 graduate of Pennsylva- Health Staff at Staten Island Univer- Mon-Sat: 7:30am-10:00pm | Sun. 11:00am-6:00pm nia College of Optometry, she com- sity Hospital, 50 Cooper Ave., Staten FREE Parking Available | Multilingual Staff pleted a residency in rehabilitative Island, (718) 979-2020]. For more infor- Emergencies and Second Opinions Welcome vision therapy at the State University mation, visit www.eyesoncooper.com.

MarchMonth 2011 2011 • • Queens XXXXX Family 2515 Is Your Child Suffering From ADD/ADHD/LD, Autistic Spectrum Disorders - Autism/PDD Looking for fun Now there’s a way to help your child using advanced technologies to eliminate or reduce the many problems associated with these disorders. with the kids? NEUROTHERAPY PROVEN NON-MEDICATION TREATMENT Documented in Science/Medical Literature Safe, Painless • Time Limited • Effective Permanent Results Dr. Cohen and Special Education Professionals Work Directly With Your Child, Family, & Teachers as Part of a Comprehensive Individualized Program That Includes: Tutoring • Family Counseling • Neurotherapy WIN Parenting Strategies • Individual Therapy • Educational Planning Caring for children and adults for over 30 years

Joan Dorfman Cohen Ph.D., aPrn, BC TICKETS Neurotherapy • Psychotherapy • Brainmapping 350 Northern Blvd., Suite 310, Great Neck (516) 482-3312 For you & your family (4) Queens to local Become family friendly a fan of Family on shows Visit our website www.webfamilyny.com and register to win Facebook Search: Queens Family

Pappas Pediatric Dentistry Attention All Writers!

We’re looking for Warm child friendly personal essays environment about you, your family and life TV/DVD in waiting room and in your community. operatories Partner with us and share your stories and your memories. Turn Your Child’s Dental Visit Into A Fun Experience

Email [email protected] to Come Pet the Friendly Dinosaur have your piece included in our • Convenient afternoon and Saturday Appointments magazine and on our website. • Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) analgesia • 30+ years experience • Accepting many insurances as full or partial payment • Digital radiography • Zoom Bleaching (for our older patients)

Despina Pappas D.D.S Elayne Pappas D.D.S. 215-41 23rd Road Bayside, NY 11360 718 224-0443

26 Queens Family • March 2011 Dr. Galina’s

� Most Major Insurances Accepted � NYS Medicaid Provider � After-school, Evening & Weekend Appointments Invisalign® Certiﬁed � Friendly staff speaks: Spanish, Farsi & Vietnamese PEDIATRICS Dr. Galina Orenshteyn, M.D. Board Certified in pediatrics with over 20 years FREE Cons ultations 122 Atlantic Avenue Brooklyn NY 11201 of experience tel 718-852-4414 www.houseoforthodontia.com WELCOMES YOU TO HER NEW OFFICE • Full range of medical services for infants, children and adolescents (till 21 years old) Leap • In-office laboratory services • Same day appointments Into • Convenient hours - open nights and Saturday • 7 days a week, 24 hours answering service LOCATED AT: Spring • Most insurance plans are accepted 21-34 Broadway, Astoria with Scratch & Win • Assistance in getting insurance for patients New York 11106 VisitViisit HoHouseuse off OOrthodontiarthodod ntiia without medical coverage (Corner of 23rd Street) for a Chance to Win Up To $500 OFF Start of Treatment • Assistance in filling of WIC and school forms 718-204-6900 ~ Valid for New Patients Only. Prize Amounts May Vary. Cannot Be Redeemed for Cash. Offer Expires May 31, 2011. Doctor speaks English Doctor habla Espanol Доктор говорит по-русски

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March 2011 • Queens Family 27 House of Orthodontia • 122 Atlantic Preferred Dental Care Avenue • (718) 852-4414 or www.houseoforthodontia.net • 146-10 45th Avenue, Flushing • (718) 445-7600 or Dr. Galina’s Pediatrics • 21-34 Broadway, Astoria (corner of 23rd Street) www.preferreddental.net Panus Romsaitong, MD • 98-76 Queens Blvd, Suite 1K • (718) 897- (718) 204-6900 0300 www.nyempiremedical.com We would like to invite you and your family to visit the Preferred Dental Care provides high quality dentistry and Dr. Galina Orenshteyn, M.D. welcomes you to her new House of Orthodontia. We are a family oriented, state of the specializes in providing all specialties under one roof. It takes a Dr. Romsaitong is a board - certifi ed ophthalmologist. He offi ce. Board Certifi ed in pediatrics with over 20 years art, environmentally friendly Orthodontic practice. You can gentle hand and lots of personal care to help children through provides a full range of eye-related services including the of experience. easily access us by public transportation via trains, buses the, sometimes new, experience of going to the dentist. Doctors diagnosis and treatment of cataract, glaucoma, diabetic eye Dr. Galina offers a full range of medical services for and the LIRR. For your convenience, we offer evening, after show them the instruments and explain all that we do so they desease, macular degeneration, dry eyes, infections and eye infants, children and adolescents (till 21 years old). school and weekend appointments. are comfortable and feel safe. The staff are well trained and trauma. Routine eye care for both adults and children is In-offi ce laboratory services are provided. Same day Our clinical director, Dr. Mani Alikhani earned his Dental have years of experience caring for patients. Preferred Dental also a priority, with on-site eyeglass and contact fi tting. appointments, convenient hours – open nights and Degree at Tufts University and his Orthodontics Certifi cate services nearly 20,000 patients a year and is well known On-site services include YAG and Argon lasers for treatment Saturdays, 7 days a week with a 24 hour answering at New York University. He is an Assistant Professor & throughout Queens as a top notch, state of the art facility of eye disease, visual fi eld testing, pachymetry, ocular service. Most insurance plans are accepted. Assistance Director of Orthodontic Research at New York University where patients come for not only the dentistry but the warm, ultrasonography and full optical and contact lens services. College of Dentistry. in getting insurance for patients without medical friendly environment. The offi ce is a place where people know Dr. Romsaitong is a Clinical Assistant Professor of With years of experience and equipped with the newest, and top-of-the-line they get the right dental care from people that take care of them and are professionals coverage, assistance in fi lling of WIC and school forms Ophthalmology at New York Medical College and is a core faculty member in the technology (temporary anchorage devices, digital x-ray’s and virtual digital in the industry. From cleanings to major treatment to welcoming patients with a smile, are provided. NYMC Brooklyn/Queens Ophthalmology Residency Program. models) Dr. Mani Alikhani and his offi ce staff provide comprehensive orthodontic Preferred Dental Care does it all. care for all ages and for every type of jaw and dental problem. We encourage and welcome you to visit our practice for a FREE Consultation. Come ask questions and discover how our team of professionals can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Call us to learn more about the insurance plans we participate with, and our affordable in-house fi nancing with no down payment. Keep in mind you can also visit us online. Why Us?: FREE Consultation, No Down Payment, Only $199 p/month, • 215-41 23rd Road, PM Pediatrics • 18-15 Francis Lewis Blvd., Whitestone Evening & Weekend Appointments, Invisalign Certifi ed, Ceramic Braces, Lingual Pappas Pediatric Dentistry • 210-31 26th Avenue, Bay Terrace Shopping Center Dr. Tsivas Kourtsounis (516) 677-KIDS (5437) • www.pmpediatrics.com Braces (iBraces), Temporary Anchorage Devices (tad’s), Digital Models, Most Bayside, NY 11360 • (718) 224-0443 (718) 746-1230 Insurances Accepted, NYC Medicaid Panel Provider, Bilingual staff: Spanish & Or “Dr. K” as he is called by the little ones, is one of Farsi, Environmentally Friendly, Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics Dr. Despina Pappas has been practicing pediatric PM Pediatrics, the preeminent provider Whitestone’s favorite pediatric dentists. Like pediatricians, (ABO),Member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). dentistry for over 30 years, She graduated from of after-hours pediatric urgent Dr. Kourtsounis has limited his practice to infants, toddlers, Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery care in New York, operating urgent and all children including those with special needs. Because and completed the post graduate program there, She care practices in Nassau, Suffolk of this, he is able to keep current on the latest diagnostic established her offi ce in 1979. Her primary goal was and Westchester, opens its newest and treatment procedures for young people. Pleasant visits and is to provide quality dental care in a warm caring location in Bayside on March 11. The to the dental offi ce promote the establishment of trust and environment. She likes to spend time with her patients jungle-themed practice, marking the and their parents, explaining treatment options and company’s fi rst NYC location, welcomes families into a uniquely themed child-friendly confi dence that will last a lifetime. Just as the pediatrician Dr. Kourtsounis will goals. Her daughter Elayne, a graduate of Stony environment for a one-of-a-kind healthcare experience. PM Pediatrics was founded monitors development from infancy, Brook’s School of Dental Medicine and the Hospital’s by Dr. Jeffrey Schor, former Director of the Pediatric ER at New York Hospital Queens. evaluate your child’s dental condition regularly to provide Pediatric Dental Residency Program, has recently Dr. Maritza Arzuaga-Del Toro will serve as Medical Director overseeing all medical the highest level of prevention and treatment. He enjoys teaching children the joined the practice. Their main objectives, aside from operations for the Bayside site. Open 365 days a year (5pm - midnight weekdays; importance of oral health care and how good care will benefi t them throughout their The World Of 12pm - midnight on weekends and holidays), PM Pediatrics is staffed with Pediatric providing their dental treatment, are to instill in their patients a good preventive lives. Emergency Specialists providing specialized care and treatment for a broad range of regimen and to make them feel comfortable in the dental setting. Dr. Kourtsounis received his Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the State University illnesses and injuries. Each site features digital x-ray, a comprehensive laboratory, and of New York at Stony Brook and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University the most effi cient follow-up with primary care providers and specialists. Turning a fearful, anxious, nervous child into a relaxed, happy patient gives them their Of Maryland College of Dental Surgery. He completed his pediatric dental residency Pediatrics greatest satisfaction. training at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.

1(888) 809-8009 1(866) 509-7999 or Dr. Aaron Milchman D.M.D., P.C. Health Plus • 836 Union Street • Joan Dorfman Cohen, PH.D, APRN, BC Neurotherapy, Psychotherapy, Brainmapping • 350 Northern Blvd, Ste 310, 172-20 26th Avenue Flushing • (718) 747-0393 www.healthplus-ny.org Great Neck • (516) 482-3312 70-18 Main Street Kew Gardens • (718) 575-9300 or www.straightenwithbraces.com Since 1984, Health Plus, one of the largest HMOs in the New York area, has worked Dr. Cohen is a board certifi ed, neurofeedback specialist and expert in the treatment Dr. Milchman received his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from to ensure that every child and adult in of ADD/ADHD/LD/PDD and Autistic Spectrum Disorders. EEG biofeedback the University of Pennsylvania where he graduated with Honors and the fi ve boroughs and Nassau County (neurotherapy), a proven non-medication treatment, provides received two additional awards in the specialty of Periodontics. He has access to free or low cost healthcare. permanent results as well as eliminates many behavior problems. expanded on his training with a one year General Practice Residency Today, the not-for-profi t organization is Dr. Cohen and special education professionals work directly with at Montefi ore Medical Center. Dr. Milchman went on to complete a the plan of choice for over 300,000 New Yorkers -- proof that it is well on its way to you, your child, and teachers to provide an individualized dual degree Orthodontic Residency Program at Temple University. In seeing its mission fulfi lled. program including neurotherapy, parenting strategies, addition to his certifi cate in Orthodontics, Dr. Milchman has also earned Health Plus offers four quality comprehensive plans: Child Health Plus, for children family counseling, individual therapy, educational a Masters of Science in Dentistry. In pursuit of the highest standards in and teens under age of 19; Family Health Plus, affordable health insurance for planning, and tutoring. Her practice includes his specialty, Board Certifi cation, Dr. Milchman has successfully passed qualifi ed adults, ages 19-64; Health Care Plus, Medicaid managed care, and Health individual psychotherapy for adolescents and the American Board of Orthodontics Written Board Exam and Clinical Case Exam. Dr. Milchman adults as well as marriage counseling. Dr. serves the needs of the pediatric, adolescent, and adult community in his two private offi ces in Plus Elite (HMO), Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug & Special Needs plans. Cohen has cared for children and adults Queens, New York. In addition, he is currently an Attending Orthodontist at St. Barnabas Hospital for over 35 years. and Wyckoff Heights Medical Center. To learn more about Health Plus, visit www.healthplus-ny.org or call 1-888-809-8009 or 1-866-509-7999 for Health Plus Elite (HMO). TTY/TDD: 1-800-662-1220 for the hearing impaired.

28 Queens Family • March 2011 House of Orthodontia • 122 Atlantic Preferred Dental Care Avenue • (718) 852-4414 or www.houseoforthodontia.net • 146-10 45th Avenue, Flushing • (718) 445-7600 or Dr. Galina’s Pediatrics • 21-34 Broadway, Astoria (corner of 23rd Street) www.preferreddental.net Panus Romsaitong, MD • 98-76 Queens Blvd, Suite 1K • (718) 897- (718) 204-6900 0300 www.nyempiremedical.com We would like to invite you and your family to visit the Preferred Dental Care provides high quality dentistry and Dr. Galina Orenshteyn, M.D. welcomes you to her new House of Orthodontia. We are a family oriented, state of the specializes in providing all specialties under one roof. It takes a Dr. Romsaitong is a board - certifi ed ophthalmologist. He offi ce. Board Certifi ed in pediatrics with over 20 years art, environmentally friendly Orthodontic practice. You can gentle hand and lots of personal care to help children through provides a full range of eye-related services including the of experience. easily access us by public transportation via trains, buses the, sometimes new, experience of going to the dentist. Doctors diagnosis and treatment of cataract, glaucoma, diabetic eye Dr. Galina offers a full range of medical services for and the LIRR. For your convenience, we offer evening, after show them the instruments and explain all that we do so they desease, macular degeneration, dry eyes, infections and eye infants, children and adolescents (till 21 years old). school and weekend appointments. are comfortable and feel safe. The staff are well trained and trauma. Routine eye care for both adults and children is In-offi ce laboratory services are provided. Same day Our clinical director, Dr. Mani Alikhani earned his Dental have years of experience caring for patients. Preferred Dental also a priority, with on-site eyeglass and contact fi tting. appointments, convenient hours – open nights and Degree at Tufts University and his Orthodontics Certifi cate services nearly 20,000 patients a year and is well known On-site services include YAG and Argon lasers for treatment Saturdays, 7 days a week with a 24 hour answering at New York University. He is an Assistant Professor & throughout Queens as a top notch, state of the art facility of eye disease, visual fi eld testing, pachymetry, ocular service. Most insurance plans are accepted. Assistance Director of Orthodontic Research at New York University where patients come for not only the dentistry but the warm, ultrasonography and full optical and contact lens services. College of Dentistry. in getting insurance for patients without medical friendly environment. The offi ce is a place where people know Dr. Romsaitong is a Clinical Assistant Professor of With years of experience and equipped with the newest, and top-of-the-line they get the right dental care from people that take care of them and are professionals coverage, assistance in fi lling of WIC and school forms Ophthalmology at New York Medical College and is a core faculty member in the technology (temporary anchorage devices, digital x-ray’s and virtual digital in the industry. From cleanings to major treatment to welcoming patients with a smile, are provided. NYMC Brooklyn/Queens Ophthalmology Residency Program. models) Dr. Mani Alikhani and his offi ce staff provide comprehensive orthodontic Preferred Dental Care does it all. care for all ages and for every type of jaw and dental problem. We encourage and welcome you to visit our practice for a FREE Consultation. Come ask questions and discover how our team of professionals can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Call us to learn more about the insurance plans we participate with, and our affordable in-house fi nancing with no down payment. Keep in mind you can also visit us online. Why Us?: FREE Consultation, No Down Payment, Only $199 p/month, • 215-41 23rd Road, PM Pediatrics • 18-15 Francis Lewis Blvd., Whitestone Evening & Weekend Appointments, Invisalign Certifi ed, Ceramic Braces, Lingual Pappas Pediatric Dentistry • 210-31 26th Avenue, Bay Terrace Shopping Center Dr. Tsivas Kourtsounis (516) 677-KIDS (5437) • www.pmpediatrics.com Braces (iBraces), Temporary Anchorage Devices (tad’s), Digital Models, Most Bayside, NY 11360 • (718) 224-0443 (718) 746-1230 Insurances Accepted, NYC Medicaid Panel Provider, Bilingual staff: Spanish & Or “Dr. K” as he is called by the little ones, is one of Farsi, Environmentally Friendly, Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics Dr. Despina Pappas has been practicing pediatric PM Pediatrics, the preeminent provider Whitestone’s favorite pediatric dentists. Like pediatricians, (ABO),Member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). dentistry for over 30 years, She graduated from of after-hours pediatric urgent Dr. Kourtsounis has limited his practice to infants, toddlers, Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery care in New York, operating urgent and all children including those with special needs. Because and completed the post graduate program there, She care practices in Nassau, Suffolk of this, he is able to keep current on the latest diagnostic established her offi ce in 1979. Her primary goal was and Westchester, opens its newest and treatment procedures for young people. Pleasant visits and is to provide quality dental care in a warm caring location in Bayside on March 11. The to the dental offi ce promote the establishment of trust and environment. She likes to spend time with her patients jungle-themed practice, marking the and their parents, explaining treatment options and company’s fi rst NYC location, welcomes families into a uniquely themed child-friendly confi dence that will last a lifetime. Just as the pediatrician Dr. Kourtsounis will goals. Her daughter Elayne, a graduate of Stony environment for a one-of-a-kind healthcare experience. PM Pediatrics was founded monitors development from infancy, Brook’s School of Dental Medicine and the Hospital’s by Dr. Jeffrey Schor, former Director of the Pediatric ER at New York Hospital Queens. evaluate your child’s dental condition regularly to provide Pediatric Dental Residency Program, has recently Dr. Maritza Arzuaga-Del Toro will serve as Medical Director overseeing all medical the highest level of prevention and treatment. He enjoys teaching children the joined the practice. Their main objectives, aside from operations for the Bayside site. Open 365 days a year (5pm - midnight weekdays; importance of oral health care and how good care will benefi t them throughout their The World Of 12pm - midnight on weekends and holidays), PM Pediatrics is staffed with Pediatric providing their dental treatment, are to instill in their patients a good preventive lives. Emergency Specialists providing specialized care and treatment for a broad range of regimen and to make them feel comfortable in the dental setting. Dr. Kourtsounis received his Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the State University illnesses and injuries. Each site features digital x-ray, a comprehensive laboratory, and of New York at Stony Brook and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University the most effi cient follow-up with primary care providers and specialists. Turning a fearful, anxious, nervous child into a relaxed, happy patient gives them their Of Maryland College of Dental Surgery. He completed his pediatric dental residency Pediatrics greatest satisfaction. training at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.

March 2011 • Queens Family 29 around town A show with heart By Allison Plitt and photos. Queens theater Bloom is a man who truly Queens community theater cares about his community company gives company is giving disadvan- — and his diverse cast. A taged children the chance to “It’s wonderful working back to the enjoy their own night on the town with a cast that’s multi-gen- — just like the lead character from erational,” he says. “We have its current production, “Annie.” In- people who are seniors. We community spired by the spunky orphan in De- have people who are middle- pression-era New York City who is aged and, of course, we have welcomed into the home of a billion- the young people.” aire during the Christmas holidays, And Theater By The Bay It’s a hard knock life: The company is giving kids Bayside’s Theater By The Bay is giv- believes in encouraging and ing free tickets to underprivileged like the disadvantaged girls in “Annie” free tickets nurturing those young cast kids throughout the boroughs. to see the show. Isabel Robin (below) stars. members. “We wanted to reach out to the “‘Annie’ is special because community, and we’re doing that free tickets to kids in the Manhat- there are a lot of kids in the cast, but in several ways,” says Lawrence F. tan-based organization Kids with a even in past productions, there were Bloom, who is producing and direct- Promise, which was established by always a few kids in there,” says Sta- ing the play this month at the Bay- the Bowery Mission and provides at- cey Zable, publicity director for the side Terrace Jewish Center. risk youth with counseling and edu- company. “It’s a very nice, loving First, the company visited St. cational opportunities for a chance environment. Larry is great with the Mary’s Healthcare System for at more promising futures. kids. And the experience gives them Kids in Bayside, which helps “These young people, who are exposure to the great musicals.” special needs kids and their disadvantaged in a sense and don’t “Annie” is the 14th production families, and put on a free have a chance to see live theater, will for Theater By The Bay, which was concert that showcased sev- be able to come as our guests and founded in 2004. In the fall of 2011, eral songs and dances from be entertained and participate in the the company will stage the musical “Annie.” arts,” explains Bloom. “Annie Get Your Gun.” Anyone can “I’ve organized these Cast member Roseann Kytka, who audition for the shows, which the types of events before. The is the director of childhood educa- company advertises on websites and performers are just as excited tion at the Ascension Church in For- in newspapers in Queens and Long — if not more excited — than the est Hills, has been able to distribute Island. Bloom says cast members audience to whom we present this,” free tickets to needy kids through past and present have come from all says Bloom. “It’s just a nice gift back.” her network of churches and organi- five boroughs and New Jersey. The troupe has also given zations in Queens. And the company As many of the younger cast mem- also reached out to New Hope Com- bers have gone on to attend the munity Church in Staten Island with LaGuardia High School of Music & free tickets for underprivileged kids Art and Performing Arts and the in that area. Frank Sinatra School of the Arts, Theater By The Bay has even more Zable adds, “It’s a nice step to — who special offers for children who come knows? — maybe Broadway.” to see the show. There will be free For audition information, visit www. snacks for kids under 12 who dress debsliweb.homestead and www.spotligh- up as either Annie or Daddy War- tonstage.com. Theater By The Bay’s pro- bucks for the March 6 matinee perfor- duction of “Annie” at Bay Terrace Jewish mance. That same day, actors Isabel Center [1300 209th St. in Bayside, (718) Robin and John Canning, who play 428-6363], Saturdays March 5, 12 and 26 the roles of Annie and Daddy War- at 8:30 pm, and Sundays March 6, 13, 20 bucks, will sign autographs and pose and 27 at 3 pm. Tickets are $20 for adults, for photos with audience members. $18 seniors and children under 12. Following the matinee perfor- Allison Plitt is a staff writer for Fam- mances on March 13 and 20, the ily Publications New York and a mother 50 cast members will be available living in Queens with a preschool age to answer questions from the audi- daughter. If you have any ideas you’d ence. After the discussion, there like to share with her about resources will be an opportunity to meet with for families in Queens, please feel free to all of the performers for autographs contact her at [email protected].

30 Queens Family • March 2011 At 11:15 pm, she needs to be treated like a princess, not just a patient.

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March 2011 • Queens Family 31 PARENTING The ‘Tiger’ wars BY RISA C. DOHERTY that her daughters were capable parenting. Examining the of achieving the grades demanded. Chua says she believes that my Chua is sparking con- I would be wary of placing such when young children are allowed controversial troversy across the country inflated expectations on all chil- to choose their activities, they will A — enraging, intriguing and dren. Sometimes children fail — invariably choose what is fun over author’s strict inciting discussion over her recent even with the child’s best efforts. It what is productive, and that chil- bestselling book, “Battle Hymn of seems that parents who subscribe dren sampling a myriad of activities the Tiger Mother,” in which she re- to Chua’s approach react to failure without focusing on any one will parenting veals her strict parenting style. with horror and shame. In the face lead to the them being proficient in Most parents want their children of failure, I prefer to help the child nothing. techniques to reach their potential and become learn from the experience and fos- She overlooks both the fact that exceptionally successful, and Chua ter the growth of future resilience. exploring may lead to the discovery is no different. Most parents, how- Parents are not just “fair weather of a hidden talent, as well as the ever, may not take the same ap- fans.” fact that, at some juncture, learning proach that the Yale law professor I believe it is the school’s job to to make choices is in itself a skill does with her children. She explains edu cate my children, although necessary for growth. She also that, as a “Tiger Mother,” based on presupposes that the traditional Chinese parenting an enormous style, she is uncompromising about Chua demands the amount of prac- her expectations for her children tice will yield re- and pushes them to excel by adher- best. One wonders sults. ing to a strict set of rules, and invest- She was fortu- ing a substantial amount of time and who benefits from nate that when it effort enforcing them. this: the parent or came to her chil- Although Chua has since denied dren, that was the that her book is a “how to” manual, the child? case. Some chil- but rather a memoir of her journey dren do not have through parenthood — the book musical aptitude, jacket presents itself as a parenting I would supplement but instead have la- primer, with the heading, “How To their learning from time tent art, athletic, or Be A Tiger Mother.” One cannot help to time. But it has never dramatic talent. Oth- but think Chua has declared herself been my goal to homeschool ers may never excel an expert. my children, and fortunately or un- at any extra-curricular In the book, she explains that fortunately, my recollection of math activity. Childhood is the perfect she demands that her children get or science, beyond the fourth grade, time to try new activities. Granted, straight A’s in school, become ac- is limited. parents who over schedule their complished musicians by playing Diametrically opposed to Chua’s children are doing them a disser- either the piano or the violin, and traditional Chinese approach is vice in another manner, but there is refrain from playdates, sleepovers, “Western parenting,” where the par- a middle ground. watching television, and playing ent is sensitized to the self-esteem Many readers balked at Chua’s video games. For her, gold med- of the child and promotes a freedom rejection of the homemade birth- als are the prize and silver is of no of individual choice. Many parent- day cards her daughters presented value. ing experts, like Wendy Mogel, au- to her, saying that they were not When one of her daughters waf- thor of “The Blessing of a B Minus: acceptable. She thought the cards fled in math, Chua tutored her, em- Using Jewish Teachings to Raise evidenced a minimum amount of ploying numerous practice tests for Resilient Teenagers,” have weighed thought and effort. To her, it is not hours until her daughter became in on the issue. Mogel is a strong the “thought that counts.” the “math kid.” She ridicules West- proponent of teaching children self- She is correct, in that many times ern parents because she claims reliance by allowing them to make children are self-absorbed and need they “[would] get to have a glass mistakes and get grades that are to be directed so that they can learn of wine and go to yoga class,” while not ideal. She believes that children to think of others. But she goes she would stay home, yelling at her need to experience failure to culti- astray when she rates the card that kids about homework or practice. vate coping skills. is supposed to be her child’s offer- Apparently, she misses the fine line Another parenting author, Ayelet ing to her. To many parents, the best between positive parent involve- Waldman, criticizes Chua’s cookie- cards are the ones that may not be ment and over involvement. cutter approach, and advocates for the prettiest, so long as the child Chua was fortunate to the extent a more individualized strategy for is giving from her heart and taking

32 Queens Family • March 2011 pride in her work. she wishes she had allowed her Chua has also been reviled for daughters a little more choice, had calling her daughter “garbage” for not been so harsh and had not been talking back to her. She defended so overconfident with all her deci- her comment, justifying it as a result sions. of cultural differences. To be honest, Despite her children’s public I have told my children that I am al- support, “tiger parenting” can lowed to speak to them in a harsher have detrimental effects on manner than they are allowed to the parent/child relation- speak to me, as we are not equals. ship. Waldman cited higher Still, there is a limit to the language suicide rates among Asian- that is appropriate, and adults are American girls, and I have supposed to set an example as to a friend who chose to move how to behave. across the country to es- Child psychologists will tell par- cape her “tiger mom.” ents to carefully target the child’s New York Magazine’s Po behavior for disapproval, and not Bronson claims that Amer- the child herself. Even with this goal ican parents will use the in mind, it is often difficult to temper tiger methodology, but one’s reaction to an incendi- adapt it in a more mod- ary situation and tailor one’s erate manner, to create words so carefully. the uberachievers Childhood should not be their children are all about work and achieve- destined to become. ment — the mantle of adult Bronson believes that responsibility forces that American parents have upon us soon enough. But just been waiting for permission even after acquiescing and to toughen up. Bronson may be allowing her daughter to correct about the generation play tennis, Chua was on of parents who got all their automatic pilot, micro- cues from books like “What To managing the lessons Expect When You’re Expecting,” behind her daugh- followed by “What To Expect the ter’s back once she First Year.” saw potential for suc- Since I did not have the ben- cessful competition. efit of “What to Expect: The To her credit, she did Toddler Years” in 1992, I was not confront her with convinced that I would be look- criticism, but to really let ing for advice for years two to go, Chua would need to 30. I hope other parents come leave the training to to the conclusion I did: parenting trusted professionals is trial by fire. Although it is com- and to her daughter’s forting to commiserate with others desire to achieve. and to seek the guidance of more- Chua seems to be seasoned parents, invariably, good consistent in her focus, common sense is the best guide. stressing not just the ef- In her book, Chua seemed to as- fort, but the results. She cribe to a very narrow definition of demands the best. She also parental success. It is not all about believes in bringing pride to one’s the grades, the Ivy League and the family. Of course, neither of these glory. I beam with pride faster when things are bad. Still, though, one effort. I never got a that I could do no better. someone tells me that my daughter wonders who benefits from this: the pat on the back for As an attorney, Chua might know “is a mensch,” than when they act parent or the child? Chua might say doing that which was that many courts look to the best impressed by the school she might both — the parent is proud of the expected of me, and I do interests of the child when faced attend or the award she won. success and the child is encouraged not agree with the philosophy that with domestic relations issues. As My father used to say he was “the by it. The flaw in this reasoning, be- everyone who participates should a parent, I believe the standard Tsar,” because he acted as a benevo- yond the extreme pressure placed get a trophy — that makes true should be the same. Although Chua lent dictator. Based on her account, upon these children to achieve, is achievement less meaningful. A sil- has proved herself to be devoted Amy Chua could have used a little that she believes that there is no ver medal, a bronze medal, or even to her girls, by dedicating innumer- more benevolence. merit in an activity in which one an honorable mention hard-earned able hours — day in and day out Risa C. Doherty is an attorney and does not excel. was worthy of praise. Still, no more — to study with them, guide them freelance writer, who encourages her My father taught me “E for effort.” was expected from me beyond my and schlep them to lessons and children to reach their potential and I always knew there was a difference best effort, and my parents never recitals, her methods were overly tries to suppress the occasional urge to between a measly effort and my best thought it was their job to ensure harsh. Chua recently told me that become a “Tiger Mom.”

March 2011 • Queens Family 33 advice Divorce & education After a split, who makes decisions for your kids? My husband and I have recently divorced. Our lawyers have worked out a settlement and child support until our children turn 18 (one is 10 and the other 13). Who makes the school-education decisions? Do these things need Ask the to be spelled out? Can you elaborate a bit about how we deal with questions professionAl regarding education now that we are Deborah berger no longer a couple?

here are some common issues that come up for children T when parents are divorced or separated. Some are as simple as who can sign a permission slip for a school trip, and some are more complex, such as who can file for a due process hearing for a disagreement with the Committee on Special Edu- cation’s program for your child. In cases of divorce it is a good idea for parents to sit down together or with a mediator to determine who will make education decisions for the children and how any dispute between the parents will be resolved. You may also do this with your re- vorce decree and allow that parent of protection, you must provide it to spective attorneys. to make decisions. In special edu- school personnel. Please make sure Depending upon what you agree cation matters where both parents that you give this order to the cor- to, both parents can retain the right retain education rights, the school rect personnel. Each school district to make education decisions for district must hold a due process has different personnel who handle their child, one parent can make hearing if one parent disagrees and orders of protection, so it is a good all the decisions, or you may decide requests an impartial hearing. idea to call the school principal to to have something in-between. For In many cases of divorce, both par- ask how this is handled at your example, both parents may have to ents see the child an equal amount of child’s school. All school personnel agree about major education deci- time. As long as your child resides who deal with your child should sions — such as school placement with each parent approximately 50 be alerted that there is an order of or agreement with a program for percent of the time, you and your ex protection so that your child is safe a special education student — but may select the school district your while at and traveling to and from, either parent can sign permission child attends. Your agreement should school. slips, tests, contact the teacher, and spell this out so that it is clear that As for child support and issues meet with school personnel about you have agreed to have equal time involving college payments, you the child’s performance. with your child and that your child should consult with your family law You should also spell out in your may attend school where either you attorney. In New York State, children agreement which parent will have or your ex reside. receive child support until the age of access to your child’s education re- There are some cases in which 21, not 18. cords — will it be both or just one? one or both parents have been or- Deborah Berger is an attorney who The school district will look to dered by a court to have no contact concentrates in Education Law. She rep- the court order or the agreement of with their children, which is known resents parents and students in Long the parents to determine who has as a court-issued order of protection. Island, NY. Visit her online at www. the right to make education deci- If your ex has been issued an order deborah berger.com. sions for the child and what to do DisclAimer: “Ask Debbie” is a public forum and questions and responses are not private or confidential or protected in case there is a dispute between by the attorney-client privilege. This is not a solicitation for business but is general information. Ms. Berger is not your at- the parents. Usually, in case parents torney, and the response above is not legal advice. You should not read this response to propose specific action or address cannot agree, the school district will specific circumstances, but only to give you a sense of general principles of law that might affect the situation you describe. Application of these general principles to particular circumstances must be done by a lawyer who has spoken with you in determine who the custodial parent confidence, learned all relevant information, and explored various options. Before acting on these general principles, you is based on the agreement or di- should hire a lawyer licensed to practice law in the jurisdiction to which your question pertains or an education advocate.

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35 Queens Family • March 2011 Parenting Bonding with teens By Michele RanaRd, M.ed. them disappear with the contents of Follow a sports team together: How to my wallet! In their defenses, they feel 3.Try to have everyone home for ave you noticed it’s tough I frequently use my time with them the big game or match on TV and, if connect even getting penciled into a teen’s primarily to lecture. So here are 10 possible, see your team in person. H social calendar, because it’s tips for parents to create more posi- Shop online: It will be impos- often triple-booked? If there is an tive connections with teens: 4.sible for you not to learn a ton when they’re adolescent living under your roof, i nvite them to bake: Trying a about your child as you both surf then you know it takes a little effort 1. new recipe can be a riot even his favorite stores’ websites and pulling away to not drift apart. if your lack of culinary skills is leg- hunt for sales. Ask about bands and/ Meg, a good friend of mine, is endary. Think of the drama and the or causes he would like to support learning to snowboard just to find memories! My kids help to bake (teens are huge supporters of non- common ground with her rad kids yeast breads or bagels, and because profits that sell merchandise to fund — which not only affects her vaca- of the rising time, it means they lin- a cause). tion choices, but keeps her body in ger longer than if we were simply in a word, bacon: Truly. My shape! Another friend inspired me throwing in a pizza. It is difficult to 5.sons come running at the smell when she recently said, “I’m not that feel moody when the whole house of bacon. I’m not clogging their arter- interested in golf, but my teen is, so smells like heaven. ies every day, and I don’t just serve it I’m taking lessons, so we’ll be able to Reminisce: Whether they roll for breakfast. Teens show up for pork share it even when I’m old.” 2. their eyes or not, teens love to fat. They just do. So share some. hear about precious, naughty, or funny Submit to youTube: Your teens Come together things they did as children. Keep tell- 6.are dying to introduce you to It’s as important as ever to make ing the old stories and laugh at your- hilarious videos that only kids their efforts to connect. Sometimes I feel self when they bring up the moments age can discover. Laughing together all I do is service my teens and watch that were maybe not your finest. is sweet relief from all the inescap- able daily nagging. Welcome their buds: This is 7.one of the best ways to see more of your kids. Frequently, the pres- ence of their friends can loosen them up and better facilitate certain dis- cussions than if you were alone, so take advantage. hit the road: Sometimes to re- 8.connect, you’ve got to put miles between your family and the daily grind. Even if it is a day trip, make the commute special and set ground rules they’ll love, i.e. no lectures, arguing, or discussing sore subjects like grades and school work. create moments: Don’t wait for 9. a birthday — light candles and play weird music on a Wednesday when it’s just spaghetti on the menu. Bake something decadent on a ran- dom night, plating it creatively like a restaurant. Surprise them with bowling on a weeknight. Take them for a one-on-one lunch at their favorite restaurant. Write a love note: Ever feel 10.tenderness springing up, but they’re not home to absorb it? Write it down. Express gratitude for them and leave the note on their pillow. Even if they don’t mention it, it matters. Michele Ranard has a husband, two teens, and a Master’s in counseling.

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March 2011 • Queens Family 37 Parenting How do I get my son interested in sports?

dear Twins, it. (He’s very small in stature.) How I was thrilled when I had a son, can we protect him? after having three daughters. But my — Signed, Hiding twice the son, who is now 11, is not into sports Kerry says: Have you asked your at all. In fact, my daughters are all in son whether the kids at school tease advice soccer and basketball leagues. I’m him? While it’s good that you are Jacqueline and so disappointed — as I always imag- looking out for his welfare, you may Kerry donelli ined we would be going to games be fretting in vain if nothing has hap- together, talking shop about teams pened yet. Instead, continue to love and that sort of father-and-son-thing. him for who he is. Allow him to ex- Any advice on how to encourage him plore and embrace himself. The best to join a sport? thing you can do for your son is to — Signed, Disappointed Dad develop his self-esteem and encour- Jacqueline says: It’s pretty clear age self-love. Kids typically don’t what you want, and what your pick on confident kids. son wants, are two very different Jacqueline says: I would start things. And the message you’re letting your son know that you love sending to your son about your and accept him. Learn by asking disapproval for his lack of enthu- your son questions such as: do you siasm for sports is, most likely, like school? Are you being bullied? destroying his self-esteem. How Let him know it is safe for him to about talking to your son about open up to you. Be alert to your son’s what is important to him, about his moods. Know his friends. Inquire dislikes and likes, and forming a sports with your daughters. with his teachers. Kids can be brutal, father-and-son bond around those . . . so communication is key. mutual interests? Give your sports- dear Twins, . . . achieving daughters the love and One of the kids in our school dear Twins, support they may be seeking from carpool is constantly late; conse- I “caught” my 11-year-old daugh- their father instead. quently making all the kids late for ter with her 11-year-old male friend Kerry says: I hope you can find school. What is the best approach to in her bedroom laughing and gig- other reasons why you are satisfied this problem; speaking to the kid or gling — and both of them almost with having a son and not focus on his mom? — Signed, Late naked! The kids tried to tell me it the fact that he’s not into sports, Kerry says: I would speak to his was because it was so hot, but I think because inevitably, he will sense mother. Let her know that if he con- they were doing a little “exploring.” I this, and it may damage his self-es- tinues to be late, he will have to be made the boy go home, and I called teem. Instead, find other things you out of the carpool, as it is not fair his parents, but they didn’t think both have in common. Allow him to that the other kids have to be late anything of it! Since when do 11-year- explore what interests him and find for school. If he continues to be late, olds fool around? And since when ways to encourage him to do that. then follow through. don’t their parents care? Then, be willing to get involved in Jacqueline says: You seem timid — Signed, Disturbed what interests him. Once you let about this situation. You have the Kerry says: I don’t think there’s go of any preconceived notion of right to get your kid to school on anything to be alarmed about. They what a son should be into, such time. Talk to both the boy and his probably were curious and were as sports, you’ll be far less disap- mother and straighten this nonsense doing a little harmless exploring. pointed. Embrace other things you out once and for all. You clearly let them know you were might have in common and you will . . . not at all happy about it. I would let maintain a healthy father-son rela- dear Twins, it go. Chances are they feel ashamed tionship. Share the commonality of My husband and I have three and won’t do it again. sons, ages 16, 15, and 12. We feel very Jacqueline says: I disagree with strongly that our youngest may turn Kerry, they are too young to be fool- Jacqueline and Kerry donelli, twin sisters, are multiple award winning out to be gay. Even his older brothers ing around. If this continues, what’s filmmakers. They are currently getting their Masters in Mental Health and think so, although no one has said next, sex at 12? A baby at 13? My have a radio show on WBcr-aM also called, “Twice the advice” — where one twin gives advice and, often, the other completely disagrees! Please this to him. Our concern is not that question is for you, Mom: why are e-mail them at [email protected]. he might be gay, but that other boys you allowing an 11-year-old boy in might abuse him or beat him up for your daughter’s room? 38 Queens Family • March 2011 TechnologyTechnology Get smart about the risks of Smartphones ids want smartphones, but, nar last fall, experts warned that Parents should also help kids like other technologies, there there aren’t yet studies about how think through what they will do K are risks that go along with cellphone use might impact young if another driver is texting while the rewards. Here’s some you should brains over time. To be on the safe they are in the car., like offering to GrowinG Up know about: side, try to limit the amount of time text on the driver’s behalf. Giving • R a d i a t i o n : All cellphones emit kids spend with phones pressed the phone to a passenger is a per- online radio waves, and for years, some against their heads. If your child’s fectly reasonable strategy when Carolyn Jabs people have worried their use may social life depends upon a lot of your child is driving. be associated with brain tumors. cellphone talking, consider getting a • G P S location: Cellphones sold A National Institutes of Health fact headset. Using the device for texting, in North America have GPS track- sheet — which summarizes recent gaming or other purposes, is less ing capability so 911 operators can research — concludes that the larg- likely to expose children to risk. locate users in an emergency. This est study done to date found that • Hearing loss: Many smart- technology can also be used by “overall, cellphone users have no phones have headphones and music parents — and predators. All of increased risk for two of the most players, and here the evidence is the major carriers allow parents common types of brain tumor.” (The clear: listening to loud music through to add a service that will provide complete fact sheet is available at headphones can cause hearing loss. location alerts and, for that mat- http://www.cancer.gov/cancertop- A study done by researchers at Har- ter, allow you to track your child’s ics/factsheet/Risk/cellphones.) vard University found that one in five movements on a map. On a more cautionary note, at teens already can’t hear whispering. Parents need to think carefully National Toxicology Program semi- Getting teens to take this prob- about whether these services sup- lem seriously isn’t easy: if they can port or undermine their efforts to hear you when you tell them to turn build trust and encourage respon- the volume down, they may actually sible decision-making. crank it up. • • • Once you’ve gotten your child’s at- Of course, having a smartphone tention, put an indelible mark on the also puts the Internet in your child’s cellphone to show when the volume is pocket, so before you hand one turned halfway up. If your child sets over, you’ll want to be confident the device higher, enforce time limits. that he understands how to be safe Offer noise-canceling headphones, and responsible in a variety of on- because if there’s less interference line environments. from background sound, your child If your child’s online skills are won’t need as much volume. still emerging, you may want to in- If you or your child uses Apple vest in nothing more than a simple devices, check its website for free cellphone that makes emergency downloads that will automatically calls. Or, consider a monitoring limit volume. program like CellSafety (www.web- • D i s t r a c t e d Driving: The many safety.com) or Phone Advocate capabilities of smartphones make it (www.phoneadvocate.com). Both more likely that teens will use them will alert parents if kids stray into while driving. Even if you can con- forbidden territory, such as sexting vince your child that it’s dumb to or cellphone cheating. text and drive, you may find it harder Most of all, remember that, de- to make the case against finding a spite their names, smartphones musical selection or GPS directions. aren’t smart. Like other tools, their Inexperienced drivers need to give value always depends upon whether their full attention to driving, so all they are used in smart ways by these activities put them at risk. smart people. Talking about the risks of distracted Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writ- driving should be your first step. ing about families and the Internet for If your teen isn’t getting the mes- over 15 years. She is the mother of three sage, you can get applications like computer-savvy kids. Other Growing Up Zoomsafer (www.zoomsafer) which Online columns appear on her website, blocks signals to a phone in a mov- www.growing-up-online.com. ing vehicle. @ Copyright, 2011, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

March 2011 • Queens Family 39 Parenting What I believe it means to be a dad ecause I write a column about ment of great children. to do with the amount of money you my experiences as a dad, peo- Whether you are a stay-at-home spend on your kids. It has to do with B ple mistakenly think that I’m a dad or a father with a demanding recognizing life’s simple pleasures Newbie DaD “parenting expert.” Excuse me while work schedule, there are some spe- — reading to your kids, celebrating Brian KanTz I stop laughing. Believe me, I’m no cific ways to provide your child with a birthday, playing catch in the back- expert. I’m just trying my best not to the unique influence of a father’s love. yard. Dads can take an active role in mess things up. Still, I’m often asked First, creating wonderful children all of those moments. what I think it means to be a dad. is largely about modeling appropri- Dan Yaccarino’s children’s book, Well, if you really want to know… ate behavior. From a very young “Every Friday,” written from the son’s First of all, I think it’s clear that age, kids pick up on the words and perspective, tells the story of a much- the era of the “passive dad” is long deeds of their parents. If a parent anticipated weekly father-son break- gone. It’s no longer vogue to pace says or does something, then it must fast date. The story is not just about around in the waiting room at the be right. “Daddy knows everything” a man buying his son pancakes, it’s hospital handing out cigars; is a typical mantra for children. Be about the time they spend together dads are invited to be in the aware of your actions. You don’t in their leisurely walk though the delivery room for the birth have to be perfect and you don’t city and the bonding, trust and love of their child. That’s a great have to be Superman, but you should that results from their routine. This thing. And it’s no longer act the way you expect your children boy can count on his dad. de rigueur for a man to act. Don’t berate the Little League Of course, in addition to being to come home from umpire if you don’t want your child there for the joyous times, fathers work and plop in his to do the same at the next game. also need to prepare children to deal easy chair while his Second, fathers are so important with life’s disappointments and chal- wife makes dinner to their children because they usually lenges. Dads can do this by listening and tends to the chil- offer something a little different than to their children, providing appro- dren; dads are encour- — and complementary to — mothers. priate support, and offering advice aged to help. That’s a Many dads, for example, enjoy being from their own experiences. Reflect great thing, too. the family comedian or the one to roll on your own childhood and your Heck, society no lon- on the floor and dig in the dirt with relationship with your father. What ger mandates that the the kids. Dads should relish these things did he do well? What aspect of man of the household roles and connect with their children his parenting style can you emulate? work and the woman through play, or whatever other posi- What didn’t he do well? What aspect stay home; based on tive method suits their personality. In can you avoid repeating? changing attitudes, other words, do what you do best. So, jump right in from the start better paying jobs for “Being silly is one of the great and become involved as a dad. Don’t women, and numer- untalked-about joys of fatherhood, be afraid to make mistakes — and ous other factors, don’t you think? Kids love to see don’t be afraid to adapt your parent- dads are accepting otherwise reserved and dignified ing style if you find that your current being the primary adults making fools of themselves,” style is not effective. Again, no fa- caregiver for their explained Mick Cochrane, author of ther is perfect, but you should know children. According to U.S. Cen- the novel “The Girl Who Threw But- that being there for your children sus data, about 160,000 Ameri- terflies” and a father of two. “When is a precious gift in itself. By taking can men now call themselves you’re about to become a father, ev- on kid-related tasks (from changing “stay-at-home dads” and 2.9 mil- eryone tells you about the responsi- diapers to helping with homework) lion American preschoolers are bility, the long hours — nobody talks and house-related duties (from vacu- cared for by their dads while about the belly laughs.” uming to paying the mortgage), you their moms work. When it comes down to it, all par- are showing responsibility for your This “modern dad” concept ents just want their children to be family. And that is something that shouldn’t be looked at as a trou- happy and healthy. Conveying hap- benefits everyone. blesome burden. It should be piness, joy and hope is so crucial in Brian Kantz would like to reiterate: viewed as a grand opportunity. developing great children. Let your he is not a parenting expert. Still, if you’d It takes work, for sure, but being children know that you love them. like to pay him a large amount of money an involved father is incredibly Leave no doubt about that. Take it on to talk to your group about parenting, he fulfilling. Better yet, the active in- as your goal to provide regular mo- can make some stuff up. Visit Brian on- volvement of a dad is a pretty ments of joy in your child’s life. line at www.briankantz.com or drop him good way to ensure the develop- And this has absolutely nothing a note at [email protected].

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March 2011 • Queens Family 41 Going Places

Long-running Learn claymation: Museum of the Submit a listing Moving Image, 35 Avenue at 37 Street; Going Places is dedicated to (718) 777-6888; www.movingimage.us; bringing our readers the most Daily, 1 pm; Now – Sun, Feb. 27; $10. comprehensive events calendar Children create their own three-di- in your area. But to do so, we mensional characters made from clay, need your help! then animate them using the same tech- All your have to do is send nique used to create popular animated your listing request to calendar@ films. cnglocal.com — and we’ll take care of the rest. Please e-mail Storytime: Barnes & Noble, 176-60 requests more than three weeks Union Tpk at Utopia Parkway; (718) prior to the event to ensure we 380-7077; www.barnesandnoble.com; have enough time to get it in. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 am & 7 pm, And best of all, it’s FREE! Free. Children enjoy stories and a cookie break. Children 7 to 11 make homemade maple granola and fresh fruit parfaits. Project posterity: Central Queens All materials included. Pre-registration YM & YWHA, 67-09 108th Street; (718) required. 268-5011; www.cqyjcc.org; Tuesdays, 3:30–5 pm, Now – Tues, April 12; Free. Wild Thing: Barnes & Noble, 176-60 Seniors (55 and older), meet with high Union Tpk. at Utopia Turnpike; (718) school students each week to document 380-7077; 1 pm; Free. their individual life stories. Take a picture with the creatures from Maurice Sendak’s book, “Where Class registration: Great Neck Arts the Wild Things Are.” Bring your own Center, 113 Middle Neck Rd. at Maple camera. Drive; (516) 829-2570; www.greatneckarts.org; Mondays – Thursdays, 9 am–9 Survival guide: Forest Park Visitor pm, Fridays, 9 am–8 pm, Saturdays, 9 Center, Forest Pk Dr. at Woodhaven am –3 pm, Sundays, 9 am – 3 pm, Sun, Boulevard; (718) 846-2731; www.ny- March 6 – Sat, March 12; Free. cgovparks.org; 1 pm; Free. Courses include art, acting, ballet, In the four part series learn about the ceramics, chess, cartooning, drawing, basic elements of wilderness survival: painting, fencing, jazz, mommy and me, shelter, water, fire, and food. musical theatre and dance. For children “The African Drum”: The National and adults. Pre-registration required. Black Theater, 2031-33 Fifth Ave. between 125th and 126th streets; (212) Fri, Feb. 25 724-0677; www.shadowboxtheatre. org; 2 pm; $15 ($20 at the door). Kids Week: Fort Totten, Fort Totten; African American folk tales. (718) 352-1769; 1 pm; Free. Children 12 and younger learn history and nature and take home a craft. Sun, Feb. 27 Mad scientists: Alley Pond Environ- Sat, Feb. 26 Simply ‘Incredible’ mental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd. 718-229-4000; www.alleypond.com; his is one incredible show. Breathtaking and polished to Global Warming 101: Alley Pond 10:30 am–12:30 pm; $15 ($19 non- Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern On March 6, the New perfection, their singular skills members). Blvd. 718-229-4000; www.alleypond. Shanghai Circus come to amaze and delight audiences of Children eight to 12 dissect an owl com; 10 am– noon; (15 ($19 non- T Queens College’s Kupferberg Cen- all ages. pellet. Snack included. Pre-registration members). ter for the Arts with “The Incred- “The Incredible Acrobats of required. Children 8 and older learn about the ible Acrobats of China.” China” at Kupferberg Center for the phenomenon and what it means for our Winter wonderland: Fort Totten, future. Children must be with paying The New Shanghai Circus has Arts, Queens College [65-30 Kissena Fort Totten; (718) 352-1769; 11 am; adult. Pre-registration required. won more gold, silver, and bronze Blvd. at 65th Avenue in Kew Gardens Free. medals in domestic and interna- Hills, (718) 544-2996], March 6 at 3 Take a stroll through the park, plus a Young Chefs: Alley Pond Envi- tional circus competitions than pm. Tickets $18 for adults, $12 chil- nature related scavenger hunt. Supply of ronmental Center, 228-06 Northern snow shoes limited. Blvd. 718-229-4000; www.alleypond. any other Chinese acrobatic com- dren 12 and younger. For info, visit com; 10:30 am – noon; $18 ($23 non- pany. www.kupferbergcenter.org. Learn to create hand-drawn flip- members). books: Museum of the Moving Image, 42 Queens Family • March 2011 Going Places 35 Avenue and 37 Street; (718) 777- tration required. 6888; www.movingimage.us; 11:30 am; $5. Climate change workshop: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St. Children learn about moving images 718-699-0005; www.nysci.org; 1–3 and create a hand-drawn flipbook to pm; Free with museum admisison. take home. Examine global warming and help The Beauty of Ballet: Queens The- create public programming for the mu- atre in the Park, Flushing Meadows seum. Registration required. Corona Park; Box Office 718-760-0064; Administration 718-760-0686; www. The Incredible Acrobats of queenstheatre.org; 1 and 3 pm; Free. China: Colden Auditorium, Kupferberg Center for the Arts, Queens College, Students from The School of Ameri- 65-30 Kissena Blvd. 718-544-2996; can Ballet perform excerpts from The www.kupferbergcenter.org; 3 pm; $18, Nutcracker and The Sleeping Beauty. ($12 children 12 and under). Tues, March 1 “Annie”: 3 pm. Bay Terrace Jewish Cengter. See Saturday, March 5. “The African Drum”: 10 and 11:30 am. The National Black Theater. See Sat- urday, Feb. 26. Tues, March 8 Dr. Seuss Day: Barnes & Noble, 176- Boating lessons: 7:30 pm. Old Mill 60 Union Tpk. at Utopia Turnpike; (718) Yacht Club. See Tuesday, March 1. 380-7077; 10:30 am; Free. Celebrate his birthday with fun activi- Sat, March 12 ties and favorite Dr. Seuss stories. Classes for everyone Nature photography: 10:30 am– Boating lessons: Old Mill Yacht ome and enjoy a week of in all disciplines and has been noon. Alley Pond Environmental Center. Club, 163-15 Crossbay Blvd. (718) 623- free classes at The Great recognized nationally as a pre- See Saturday, March 5. 3114; [email protected]; 7:30 pm; Neck Arts Center and wel- mier venue for art, music, drama, $80. C “Jemima Puddle-Duck”: Queens come its newest director of edu- dance, film and literature. Theatre in the Park, Flushing Meadows Flotilla 11-3 of the US Coast Guard cation, Audrey Dyer. From March Pre-registration is required for all Auxiliary presents a seven week course Corona Park; Box Office 718-760-0064; classes. The Center is open Monday with an exam to follow. Pre-registration 6 through 12, children and adults Administration 718-760-0686; www. required. may sign up for a class in art, act- through Thursday, 9 am-9 pm; Fri- queenstheatre.org; 11 am and 1 pm; ing, ballet (including pointe), ce- day, 9 am-8 pm; Saturday, 9 am-3 $12. Wed, March 2 ramics, chess, cartooning, draw- pm; and Sunday, 9 am-3 pm Puppet version of Beatrix Potter’s chil- ing and painting, fencing, jazz, Great Neck Arts Center [113 Mid- dren’s classic. “The African Drum”: 10 and 11:30 mommy and me, musical theatre, dle Neck Rd. at Maple Drive in Great “There’s a Dinosaur in the am. The National Black Theater. See Sat- social dance and tap. Neck, (516) 829-2570]. For more in- Closet”: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 urday, Feb. 26. The Center has been a staple in formation, visit www.greatneckarts. Northern Boulevard; (718) 463-7700; the community, producing artists org. www.flushingtownhall.org; 11:15 am; Thurs, March 3 $12 (10 members; $8 children; $6 member children). “The African Drum”: 10 and 11:30 Puppet show for children five and up. am. The National Black Theater. See Sat- required. 0686; www.queenstheatre.org; 2 and 8 urday, Feb. 26. pm; $42 ($40 seniors $25 Students). “Time Bandits”: Museum of the Science family day: New York Hall The best of Russian classical ballet Moving Image, 35 Ave. at 37th Street; “The Green Hornet in Tut’s Fe- of Science, 47-01 111th St. 718-699- training and tradition. (718) 777-6888; movingimage.us; 12:30 ver”: Museum of the Moving Image, 0005; www.nysci.org; 11 am–4 pm; pm; Free with museum admission. 35 Ave. at 37th Street; (718) 777-6888; Free with museum admisison. “The African Drum”: 2 pm. The Sean Connery, Shelly Duvall and John movingimage.us; 2 pm; Free with mu- Join Sid the Science Guy and learn National Black Theater. See Saturday, Cleese star in this comedy adventure. seum admission. fun stuff. Feb. 26. The 1940’s classic starring Gordon Animal workshop: Alley Pond En- “Mi bebe es un heroe”: Repertorio “Annie”: Bay Terrace Jewish Cengter, Jones and Key Luke. vironmental Center, 228-06 Northern Espanol, 138 E. 27th St. (212) 225-9920; 1300 209th St. between 82nd Avenue Blvd. 718-229-4000; www.alleypond. www.repertorio.org; Noon; $12. and Union Turnpike; (718) 428-6363. com; 1:30–3:30 pm; $15 ($20 non- Fri, March 4 8:30 pm; $20 ($18 seniors and children Bilingual puppet show that teaches members). the importance of love and family val- under 12). “The African Drum”: 10 and 11:30 Children ages three to four learn ues. For children two and up. Theater by the Bay presents the quint- am. The National Black Theater. See Sat- about the different homes animals make urday, Feb. 26. essential sunshine musical with such fa- “Fantastic Voyage”: Museum of the vorites as “The Sun Will Come Out To- for themselves in winter. Must be toilet “The Green Hornet in Tut’s Fe- Moving Image, 35 Ave. at 37th Street; morrow” and “It’s a Hard Knock Life.” trained. Pre-registration required. (718) 777-6888; movingimage.us; 12:30 ver”: 2 pm. Museum of the Moving Family day: Queens Botanical Gar- pm; Free with museum admission. Image. See Thursday, March 3. Sun, March 6 den, 43-50 Main Street; (718) 539- The 1966 Sci-Fi classic. 5296; www.queensbotanical.org; 2–4 Sat, March 5 “The Green Hornet in Tut’s Fe- Animal care trainee: Alley Pond pm; Free. ver”: 1, 2 and 3:30 pm. Museum of the Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Enjoy Spring and the Children’s Nature photography: Alley Pond Moving Image. See Thursday, March 3. Blvd. 718-229-4000; www.alleypond. garden. Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern com; 10 am–noon; $12 ($16 non- Blvd. 718-229-4000; www.alleypond. St. Petersburg Classic Ballet: members). Nature hike: Alley Pond Park, 76th com; 10:30 am–noon; $54 ($60 non- Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing Children eight to 12 learn how to Ave. & Springfield Blvd. (718) 846-2731; members). Meadows Corona Park; Box Office 718- brush, clean and feed the local animals. 5 pm; Free. For children six to 11. Pre-registration 760-0064; Administration 718-760- Snack and certificate provided. Pre-regis- Continued on page 44 March 2011 • Queens Family 43 Going Places Continued from page 43 is. Presented by the Lawrence Eis- Search for bats, raccoons, and other man Center for Preparatory Studies in creatures of the night. Bring your own Music. flashlight. “All of Me”: Kupferberg Center - Sun, March 20 Queens College, 65-30 Kissena Blvd. at March for Earth: Queens Botanical 64th Avenue; (718) 793-8080; www. Garden, 43-50 Main Street; (718) 886- kupferbergcenterarts.org; 8 pm; $38 3800 X204; www.queensbotanical.org; ($36 students and seniors). call for times. Free. Linda Eder brings her signature blend Enjoy the first day of Spring and vol- of songs from pop and country music unteer to keep the gardens beautiful. legends. Pre-registration required. “Annie”: 8:30 pm. Bay Terrace Jewish Cengter. See Saturday, March 5. Scavenger hunt: Kissena Park, Rose and Oak avenues; (718) 846-2731; www.nycgovparks.org; 11 am; Free. Sun, March 13 Children of all ages hunt for hidden “Time Bandits”: 1 pm. Museum of treasures throughout the park. the Moving Image. See Saturday, March “Annie”: 3 pm. Bay Terrace Jewish 12. Cengter. See Saturday, March 5. “There’s a Dinosaur in the Laurie Halse Anderson: Leonard Closet”: 2:15 pm. Flushing Town Hall. Nimoy Thalia, 2537 Broadway at West See Saturday, March 12. 96th Street; (212) 316-4962; www. symphonyspace.org; 4 pm; $15 ($12 Mon, March 14 members). Poetry slam: Barnes & Noble, 176- The author talks about her books 60 Union Tpk. at Utopia Turnpike; (718) “Speak” and her newest release, 380-7077; 7:30 pm; Free. “Forge” the sequel to “Chains”. Share your original works and listen to others. Hosted by Susan Yang. Sat, March 26 Justin Roberts and the Not Tues, March 15 Ready for Naptime Players: Peter Poetry workshop: Barnes & Noble, Jay Sharpe Theatre, 2537 Broadway 176-60 Union Tpk. at Utopia Turnpike; at West 96th Street; (212) 864-5400; (718) 380-7077; 7:30 pm; Free. www.symphonyspace.org; 11 am and 2 Get helpful hints on honing your pm; $13-$27. craft. This Grammy award winning nominee presents his high energy pop sound Sat, March 19 that will get everyone, including mom and pop, on their feet dancing and sing- “The Very Hungry Caterpillar”: ing along. Barnes & Noble, 176-60 Union Tpk. at Utopia Turnpike; (718) 380-7077; 11 “Annie”: 8:30 pm. Bay Terrace Jewish am; Free. Cengter. See Saturday, March 5. Eric Carle’s favorite fuzzy insect. Animal workshop: Alley Pond En- Sun, March 27 vironmental Center, 228-06 Northern “Annie”: 3 pm. Bay Terrace Jewish Blvd. 718-229-4000; www.alleypond. Cengter. See Saturday, March 5. com; 1:30–3:30 pm; $15 ($20 non- members). Children ages five to six learn about Skip naptime for this Tues, March 29 the different homes animals make for ubbed “kid-rock royalty” On March 26, he brings his “Sesame Street”: Barnes & Noble, themselves in winter. . Pre-registration by the Chicago Tribune, Not Ready for Naptime Players 176-60 Union Tpk. at Utopia Turnpike; required. we say that Justin Rob- to Symphony Space, where he’s (718) 380-7077; 10:30 am; Free. D Activity sheets, stories and fun. “Sol y Canto- Twice as Many erts could be in the running for a favorite year after year. Go see Friends”: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 king. why. Northern Boulevard; (718) 463-7700; The Grammy nominee has Justin Roberts and the Not Ready Sat, April 2 www.flushingtownhall.org; 2:15 pm; $12 ($10 members; children $8, $6 been compared to James Tay- for Naptime Players at Symphony “Rocknoceros”: Thalia Theatre, 2537 member children). lor, Elvis Costello, Loudon Wain- Space’s Peter Jay Sharp Theatre Broadway at West 96th Street; (212) Bilingual, interactive fiesta of origi- wright III, and even Green Day, [2537 Broadway at 95th Street in 864-5400; www.symphonyspace.org; nal music. but Roberts sings comical lyrics Manhattan, (212) 864-5400], March 11 am; $10. that get to the heart of what it’s 26 at 11 am and 2 pm. Tickets $25, Featuring the talents of Coach Cotton, Meet the Composer: LeFrak Con- Williebob and Boogie Woogie Bennie. cert Hall, Queens College, 65-30 Kis- like to be a kid, from the horrors $27 day of show for adults; $13, $17 It’s a rocking good time for everyone. sena Blvd. 718-793-8080; www.kup- of school-picture day to monsters day of show for kids. For info, visit ferbergcenterarts.org; 3 pm; $12. under the bed. www.symphonyspace.org. “Mi bebe es un heroe”: Noon. Rep- Find out who the mystery composer ertorio Espanol. See Saturday, March 5. 44 Queens Family • March 2011 Going Places March events at Queens Libraries away, 1637 Central Ave. at Mott Av- Tues, March 8 ots and teens can enjoy of all — it’s all free. enue; (718) 327-2549; 3 pm; Free. exciting and educational For additional information visit a Create your own superheroes with il- Stage workshop: Bay Terrace, 18-36 T events all month long at branch near you or online at www. lustrator Neil Numberman. Bell Blvd. at 23rd Avenue; (718) 423- the Queens Library, and — best queenslibrary.org. 7004; 3:30 pm; Free. Hatha Yoga: Queensboro Hill, 60-05 For budding actors. Main St. at 63rd Avenue; (718) 423- Long-running Northern Blvd. (718) 229-1834; Mon- 7004; 4 pm; Free. Watercolor workshop: Rosedale, days, 6 pm, Now – Mon, June 20; Free. For beginners. Wear comfortable 144-20 243rd St. at 145th Avenue; (718) Book buddies: Hillcrest, 187-05 Volunteer instructors teach beginners. clothing and bring a mat. 528-8490; 4 pm; Free. Union Tpke. (718) 454-2786; Tuesdays, Children seven to 12 get the basics 3:30 pm, Now – Tues, March 29; Free. from artist Margo Clarke. Pre-registra- Tweens 12 and up read to younger Tues, March 1 Fri, March 4 tion required. children and enjoy stories. Picture book time: Glen Oaks, 256- Game day: Bay Terrace, 18-35 Bell “Dungeons and Dragons”: 4:30 Teen tuesdays: Hillcrest, 187-05 04 Union Tpke. at 256th Street; (718) Blvd. at 23rd Avenue; (718) 423-7004; pm. Baisley Park. See Tuesday, March 1. Union Turnpike; (718) 454-2786; Tues- 831-8636; 11 am; Free. 2:30 pm; Free. days, 4 pm, Now – Tues, June 21; Free. Circle of Friends is for children ages Checkers, chess and other board Nutrition workshop: 4:30 pm. Ridgewood. See Tuesday, March 1. Play games, do crafts, listen to music three to five and includes songs, arts games. and crafts. and hang with friends. Comic Book workhsop: 3 pm. Far Laptop for teens: Hollis, 202-05 “Dungeons and Dragons”: Baisley Rockaway. See Thursday, March 3. Wed, March 9 Hillside Ave. (718) 465-7355; Mondays Park, 117-11 Sutphin Blvd. at Foch Bou- Mother Goose time: 10:15 and levard; (718) 529-1590; 4:30 pm; Free. Chess club: Auburndale, 25-55 Fran- – Thursdays, 4 pm, Now – Thurs, March cis Lewis Blvd. at 45th Drive; (718) 352- 11:15 am. Bayside. See Wednesday, Children nine and up play fantasy role 31; Free. 2027; 3:30 pm; Free. March 2. Play games and learn the basics. games. Pre-registration required. Master Paul gives hints on the game. Picture story time: 10:30 am–Noon. Nutrition workshop: Ridgewood, Knights of Queens: Queens Village, Fashion workshop: Corona, 38-23 Lefrak City. See Wednesday, March 2. 20-12 Madison St. at Forest Avenue; 94-11 217 St. at 94th Avenue; (718) 104th St. between 38th and 39th av- (718) 821-4770; 4:30 pm; Free. Crafts: 11 am. Queens Public Library at 776-6800; Wednesdays, 3:30 pm, Now enues; (718) 426-2844; 4 pm; Free. Sip teachers share tips for healthy eat- Steinway. See Wednesday, March 2. – Wed, March 30; Free. Children 11 to 14 create their own ing and how to manage and maintain a Children six to 16 learn chess basics. trends and designs. Magic show: Fresh Meadows, 193-20 healthy weight. For children 11 to 14. Equipment provided. Horace Harding Expy. (718) 454-7272; Intergenerational plant project: 4 pm; Free. Drama Posse: Hillcrest, 187-05 Union Hollis, 202-05 Hillside Ave. (718) 465- Wed, March 2 Learn the tricks of the trade. Tpke. (718) 454-2786; Thursdays, 3 pm, 7355; 4 pm; Free. Now – Thurs, March 24; Free. Mother Goose time: Bayside, 214- Children six and older along with se- Crochet: 4 pm. Astoria. See Wednes- Get your acting chops on. Weekly re- 20 Northern Blvd. at 215th Street; (718) nior adults participate together in writ- day, March 2. hearsals required. Performance 3/24/11. 229-1834; 10:15 and 11:15 am; Free. ing, memories and plants. Pre-registra- Interactive program for children two tion required. Crochet: 4 pm. Bayside. See Wednes- Girl Scouts: Queens Village, 94-11 day, March 2. 217 St. at 94th Road; (718) 776-6800; and one-half years old. Pre-registraiton required. Game time: Bellerose, 250-06 Hillside Thursdays, 4 pm, Now – Thurs, April Ave. at 249th Street; (718) 831-8644; 4 28; Free. Dr. Seuss Day: Pomonok, 158-21 pm; Free. Thurs, March 10 Informational meeting. Jewel Ave. at Parsons Boulevard; (718) For tweens. Hatha Yoga: 4 pm. Queensboro Hill. 359-1102; 10:30 am; Free. Teen happy hour: Flushing, 41-17 See Thursday, March 3. Celebrate with stories and crafts. For Main St. (718) 661-1200; Fridays, 3:30 Sat, March 5 Swing concert: Cambria Heights, pm, Now – Fri, March 25; Free. children infant to three years and their caregivers. Piano concert: Flushing, 41-17 Main 218-12 Linden Blvd. at 221st Street; Friends, board games, video games St. (718) 661-1200; 2 pm; Free. (718) 528-3535; 6:30 pm; Free. and music. Picture story time: Lefrak City, 98- Aquarius Duo performs the Carl the Music Man and Teri-Ann per- 30 57th Ave. at Junction Boulevard; Game players club: Hillcrest, 187-05 works of Dvorak, Faure, Mozart and form jazz, blues, calypso and rock and (718) 592-7677; 10:30 am–Noon; Free. Union Tpke. (718) 454-2786; Fridays, 4 Tachaikowsky. roll. pm, Now – Fri, May 27; Free. For children 18 months to five years. Zumba: Long Island City, 37-44 21 St. Board games for children six to 14. Crafts: Queens Public Library at Stein- at 43rd Avenue; (718) 752-3700; 3:30 Fri, March 11 Math help: Flushing, 41-17 Main St. way, 21-45 31st St. at 21st Avenue; pm; Free. Game day: 2:30 pm. Bay Terrace. See (718) 661-1200; Saturdays, 10 am, Free. (718) 728-1965; 11 am; Free. Friday, March 4. Tutoring for children in grades four For children two to four years old. Sun, March 6 Chess club: 3:30 pm. Auburndale. See to 8. Crochet: Astoria, 14-01 Astoria Blvd. Friday, March 4. (718) 278-2220; 4 pm; Free. Klezmer concert: Central Library, 89- Tutoring: Bayside, 2124-20 Northern 11 Merrick Blvd. (718) 990-0700; 3:30 Teens make their own creations. Watercolor workshop: St. Albans, Blvd. (718) 229-1834; Mondays, 3:30–5 pm; Free. pm, Saturdays, 10 am–noon, Free. 191-05 Linden Blvd. (718) 528-8490; 4 Crochet: Bayside, 214-20 Northern Isle of Klezbos performs. pm; Free. Teen volunteers offer homework help. Blvd. at 215th Street; (718) 229-1834; 4 Children seven to 12 get the basics Open mic: Central Library, 89-11 Mer- pm; Free. Mon, March 7 from artist Margo Clarke. Pre-registra- rick Blvd. (718) 990-0700; Sundays, 2 Teens make their own creations. tion required. pm, Now – Sun, April 10; Free. DIY prom: Flushing, 41-17 Main St. (718) 661-1200; 4:30 pm; Free. Intergenerational plant project: Guest readers offer prose and poems. Thurs, March 3 Learn to accessorize. Supplies 4 pm. Hollis. See Friday, March 4. Teen chess club: Bayside, 214-20 Comic Book workhsop: Far Rock- provided. Continued on page 46 March 2011 • Queens Family 45 Going Places Continued from page 45 Wed, March 23 Game time: 4 pm. Bellerose. See Fri- day, March 4. Mother Goose time: 10:15 and Puppets do Potter 11:15 am. Bayside. See Wednesday, March 2. Sat, March 12 wo of Beatrix Potter’s most Picture story time: 10:30 am–Noon. Horror and science fiction: Flush- beloved stories come to Lefrak City. See Wednesday, March 2. ing, 41-17 Main St. (718) 661-1200; life this month at Queens Noon; Free. T Crochet: 4 pm. Bayside. See Wednes- Meet author Al Vermette and the staff Theatre in the Park. day, March 2. of “Blood Moon Rising” horror magazine. On March 12, the Hudson Vag- abond Puppets perform “Jemima Thurs, March 24 Mon, March 14 Puddle-Duck” and “The Story of the Fierce Bad Rabbit” in a pup- Book club: Poppenhusen, 121-23 Irish music: Flushing, 41-17 Main St. pet ballet filled with astonishing 14th Ave. at College Point Boulevard; (718) 661-1200; 6 pm; Free. costumes and masks and set to (718)359-1102; 3:30 pm; Free. Shannon Breeze performs traditional music by William Walton. For children in grades four to six. and contemporary songs. It’s an imaginative performance Hatha Yoga: 4 pm. Queensboro Hill. Family night: South Jamaica, 108- that does justice to Potter’s vivid See Thursday, March 3. 41 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. between 108th children’s classics. and 109th avenues; (718) 739-4088; 6 “Jemima Puddle-Duck” and “The pm; Free. Fri, March 25 Story of the Fierce Bad Rabbit” at For all ages. Board games, Wii and Game day: 2:30 pm. Bay Terrace. See light refreshments served. Queens Theatre in the Park [Flush- Friday, March 4. ing Meadows Corona Park, beside “The Paranormal Adventurers”: the Queens Museum, the Ice Skat- Chess club: 3:30 pm. Auburndale. See South Ozone Park, 128-16 Rockaway Friday, March 4. Blvd. at 128th Street; (718) 529-1660; ing Rink and the Unisphere, (718) 6:30 pm; Free. 760-0064], March 12 at 11 am and 1 Game time: 4 pm. Bellerose. See Fri- Authors Joseph Flammer and Dianne pm. Tickets $12. For info, visit www. day, March 4. Hill take you on a journey of ghosts and queenstheatre.org. famous graveyards. Mon, March 28 Tues, March 15 Thurs, March 17 Main St. (718) 661-1200; 11 am; Free. Arts and crafts: Hillcrest, 187-05 Representatives from various commu- Union Tpke. at 188th Street; (718) 454- “The Storyteller’s Candle”: Co- Book club: Long Island City, 37-44 nity groups offer advice to parents on 2786; 6 pm; Free. 21st St. between 49th Avenue and 47th rona, 38-23 104th St. (718) 426-2844; summer camps, child care programs and Children six–14 create a spring project. Road; (718) 752-3700; 10 am; Free. 4 pm; Free. educational programs. ”The Sea Wall” by Marguerite Duras” Read author Lucia Gonzalez’s book Craft club: Long Island City, 37-44 is this month’s title. about the first Latina librarian Pura Bel- 21st St. between 49th Avenue and 47th pre and watch a puppet show. Sun, March 20 Road; (718) 752-3700; 6 pm; Free. Puzzle day: Lefrak City, 98-30 57th All ages. Ave. at Junction Boulevard; (718) 592- Hatha Yoga: 4 pm. Queensboro Hill. Open mic: Central Library, 89-11 Mer- 7677; 4 pm; Free. See Thursday, March 3. rick Blvd. (718) 990-0700; 2 pm; Free. Tues, March 29 For children six to 12 years old. Featured reader Nicole Cooley. Trivia contest: Steinway, 21-45 31st “Dungeons and Dragons”: 4:30 “Dungeons and Dragons”: 4:30 St. at 21st Avenue; (718) 728-1965; 6 pm. Baisley Park. See Tuesday, March 1. pm. Baisley Park. See Tuesday, March 1. pm; Free. Mon, March 21 Share knowledge of St. Patrick’s Day. Nutrition workshop: 4:30 pm. Animal workshop: Corona, 38-23 Wed, March 30 Ridgewood. See Tuesday, March 1. 104th St. between 38th and 39th av- Fri, March 18 enues; (718) 426-2844; 3 pm; Free. Mother Goose time: 10:15 and 11:15 am. Bayside. See Wednesday, Science lab: Central Library, 89-11 Children six to 10 learn about animals Wed, March 16 March 2. Merrick Blvd. (718) 990-0700; 11 am; and which ones make the perfect pet. Mother Goose time: 10:15 and Free. Space is limited. 11:15 am. Bayside. See Wednesday, Crochet: 4 pm. Bayside. See Wednes- day, March 2. March 2. Game day: 2:30 pm. Bay Terrace. See Animal workshop: Jackson Heights, Friday, March 4. 35-51 81st St. between 35th and 37th Picture story time: 10:30 am–Noon. avenues; (718) 889-2500; 4:30 pm; Free. Thurs, March 31 Lefrak City. See Wednesday, March 2. Chess club: 3:30 pm. Auburndale. See Children six to 10 learn about animals Friday, March 4. Arts and crafts: Cambria Heights, Crafts: 11 am. Queens Public Library at and which ones make the perfect pet. 218-13 Linden Blvd. (718) 528-3535; Steinway. See Wednesday, March 2. Image seminar: Rosedale, 144-20 Space is limited. 3:30 pm; Free. 243rd St. at 145th Avenue; (718) 528- Swing concert: North Forest Park, Children in grades three to five deco- 8490; 4 pm; Free. Irish music: Sunnyside, 43-06 Green- 98-27 Metropolitan Ave. (718) 261- point Ave. (718) 784-3033; 6 pm; Free. rate a mini skateboard. Pre-registration 5512; 1 pm; Free. Teens get helpful hints about their at- required. titude and personal perspective. Pre-reg- Traditional and contemporary songs. Carl the Music Man and Teri-Ann per- Hatha Yoga: 4 pm. Queensboro Hill. form jazz, blues, calypso and rock and roll. istration required. Tues, March 22 See Thursday, March 3. Arts and crafts: Queens Village, 94- Game time: 4 pm. Bellerose. See Fri- Sci-Fi workshop: Hillcrest, 187-05 11 217 St. at 94th Avenue; (718) 776- day, March 4. “Dungeons and Dragons”: 4:30 Union Tpke. at 188th Street; (718) 454- 6800; 4 pm; Free. pm. Baisley Park. See Tuesday, March 1. 2786; 6 pm; Free. Kids create a St. Patrick’s project. Sat, March 19 Nutrition workshop: 4:30 pm. Time travel: Is it real? for teens 15 and Crochet: 4 pm. Bayside. See March 2. Family resource day: Flushing, 41-17 Ridgewood. See Tuesday, March 1. older. Light refreshments served. 46 Queens Family • March 2011 ~ Party Planners ~ Happy Henry Carmini the magiCian “The Wizard/Magician Clown” Children’s Parties Best prices in town Close Up Magic Your audience will laugh and have a H Cute Clowns H MusICAl GAMes at its very finest H H • Hands-on Magic great time at a fun-filled show with CARtoon PICtuRe • Balloon aniMals magic, comedy, audience participation, CHARACteRs tIMe • Face Painting H BAlloon H MAGIC • illusions and Hundreds fun for young and old sCulPtInG H Cotton oF costuMe cHaracters H FACe PAIntInG CAnDY MACHIne Birthdays, Bar Mitzvahs, christenings, magic, Clowns, Ventriloquists, Balloons, children’s and adult Parties Face Painting and Characters We Come to You and Bring Smiles to Your Children! Corporate aCCounts welCome (718) 683-1739 • (516) 987-9288 seen on 917-617-3698 718.633.9137 • 917.754.5755 vIsIt ouR weB sIte At 3CPARtIes.CoM! HBo www.HappyHenrytheWizard.com

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March 2011 • Queens Family 47 It figures By Cynthia Washam Food Facts Percent increase from 2008 to 2009 in the number of U.S. households 19: growing their own produce.

Money for produce, per season, that a family can save from $530: investing $70 in a home garden.

Times more likely preschoolers are to eat fresh produce if it’s two:home-grown and not store-bought.

Percent of 4th through 6th graders who enjoy 96: working in the garden.

Percent who enjoy taste-testing fresh 98:fruits and vegetables.

Percent of Percent of children 25: children’s 60:who consider daily intake of watermelon their favorite vegetables that fruit. comes from French fries. Percent whose 30:favorite is apples. Percent of 40:their fruit intake that comes from juice. Rating Rides

Percent of children whose Four:favorite amusement park ride is the merry-go-round.

Percent whose favorite is the roller 55:coaster.

Year the U.S.’s first roller 1884:coaster, the Switchback Railway, opened in Coney Island, Brooklyn.

Year the world’s oldest continuously operating roller coaster 1912: opened, in Melbourne, Australia.

Photo by Gregory P. Mango Sources: Real Simple, Parenting, Journal of the American Dietetic Association, Scholastic.com

48 Queens Family • March 2011 community marketplace

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March 2011 • Queens Family 49 New & Noteworthy Tutu cute It doesn’t get much cuter than this. Your little princess will be ready for her close-up in this tiny tutu by Bijou Baby Boutique. With 30 colors to choose from, you can find the one that’s perfect for her as a photography prop or just for playtime. The tutu also comes with a matching hair accessory, featuring a soft, stretchy headband with a removable flower hair clip. The set is tailored for babies newborn to 24 months. Tutu by Bijou Baby Boutique, $18.50. For info, visit www.etsy. com/people/BijouBabyBoutique.

Laptop ready It’s never too early to start. With My Own Leaptop from Leap Frog, your little one can play on a personalized — albeit toy — T is for trendy computer. These are some artful tees. Choose and download songs Bushwick-based Soft Clothing has — internet connection required — launched a Brooklyn Artists Tee Se- to create your child’s customized ries, inspired by the street art scene prints — ranging from a sailboat to playlist. On their Leaptop, kids can and the artists surrounding its de- cavorting kids — but don’t wait long. explore the alphabet, pretend play, sign studio. These tees are available for a limited music, animals and computer lit- Soft Clothing commissioned three time only. eracy with six learning activity sta- of those local artists to create the Brooklyn Artists Tees are $18.50 each tions. And you can connect to the shirts, and the result is imaginative and available at Sprout Kidz [849A online LeapFrog Learning Path for play with patterns, photographs, and Union St. at Seventh Avenue in Park learning ideas and insights. to computers — and safer than let- mixed media printed on long-sleeve Slope, (718) 398-2280] and online at The devices come in two col- ting them use yours. cotton jerseys. Choose from three www.softclothing.net. ors — green or purple — and are My Own Leaptop by Leap Frog, geared towards children 2- to $24.99. For info, visit www.leapfrog. 4-years-old. It’s a nice introduction com. Bring in this funk “Groove” to this funky new chil- create what he could not find for his dren’s CD. son: music reminiscent Baking fun “Groove Kid Na- of growing up in the For a delicious read on-the-go, tion: The Wheels funk-filled, soul-infused without the hassle of bringing a on the Bus” features 1960s and ’70s. bulky book with you, check out classic children’s Each tune features “Maid Marian Muffins.” songs redone as a whimsical animal Jamie and Jessica Vander Salm’s soul foot-stompers. character performing light-hearted tale reveals a muffin But it’s only for the technologi- There’s “Itsy Bitsy a solo on its instru- fan’s journey from mere admirer cally savvy. “Maid Marian Muffins” Spider,” “The Alpha- ment, a nd a n enclosed to Brooklyn baking sensation. It’s was created strictly for use on the bet Song,” and, of 10-page booklet fea- based on the real-life adventures of iPod Touch, iPhone and iPad. course, “The Wheels tures illustrations of co-author Jessica, Brooklyn’s one- “Maid Marian Muffins,” $2.99 for on the Bus,” as well these new animal friends. and-only bicycling baker, with over iPad, $1.99 for iPod Touch and iPhone. as original material. “Groove Kid Nation: The Wheels on 36 pages of hand-drawn illustra- For info, visit www.maidmarianmuffins. The CD is the brainchild of musi- the Bus,” $15.98. For info, visit www. tions by Ana Benaroya. com. cian Rodney Lee, who wanted to groovekidnation.com.

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Month 2011 • XXXXX Family 3 Swimming Singing Smiling (A Lot) YMCA Camp. It's what kids want for summer.

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Month 2011 • XXXXX Family 4 Financial assistance is available.