BROOKLYN FREE Family Fall Where Every Child Matters Kid Fit! 10 Easy Athletic Tips for Any Family Social Media and Your Teen Older Moms, New Challenges

School GuideAugust 2015 BROOKLYN FREE Family Fall Where Every Child Matters Kid fit! 10 easy athletic tips for any family Social media and your teen Older moms, new challenges

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For more information about Medicaid Managed Care call New York Medicaid Choice at 1-800-541-2831. For more information about Medicaid and Child Health Plus call New York Health Options at 1-800-541-2831. To learn more about applying for health insurance through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777. 1-888-FIDELIS | fideliscare.org (1-888-343-3547) • Brooklyn Family August 2015 Features 6 10 tips to help you set fitness goals for your family By Sara Dimmick 8 Issues facing the older mom As science allows births later in life, mothers face new challenges By Allison Plitt 10 Too connected How sexting, texting, and the social media frenzy are affecting and shaping our adolescents By Tammy Scileppi 14 Keep an eye out Tips for parents on protecting their child’s eyesight By Behlor Santi 16 Wheel power How to prepare your child for riding a bike to school By Jennifer Warner 20 The post-baby blues 22 Understanding postpartum mood disturbances By Denise Yearian 22 Fight summer learning loss! columns Five things that New York City kids should pick up 18 Dear Dr. Karyn 51 Good Sense Eating this season By Dr. Karyn Gordon by Christine M. Palumbo, RD By Dr. Deborah Antoine and Rhea Wong 24 Ask an Attorney 52 Mommy 101 38 The art of conversation By Alison Arden Besunder, Esq. By Angelica SerEda Preschool kids are the perfect age to learn the social 35 Dear Teacher 53 Tips for Feeding Kids aspect of language by Peggy Gisler and By Jenny Gensterblum By Thomas C. Daus Marge Eberts 56 The Book Worm 41 Keeping kids with food allergies 36 Healthy Living By Terri Schlichenmeyer safe by Danielle Sullivan By Dr. Buck Parker 66 New & Noteworthy 38 Behavior & Beyond By Lisa J. Curtis 45 Lots of fun with these ‘Pixels’ By Dr. Marcie Beigel Kid film critics weigh in on Adam Sandler’s latest effort 40 Family Health calendar By Dr. Pramod Narula, MD 48 Rash judgments 58 August Events Your basic guide — from itchy and perplexing to 42 Just Write Mom kind of creepy by Danielle Sullivan special sections By Christa Melnyk Hines 44 FabuLYSS Finds 26 Fall 2015 School Guide 54 Discover the Finger Lakes by Lyss Stern 65 The Marketplace By Shnieka L. Johnson 46 Growing Up Online by Carolyn Jabs 50 A Letter from College By Aglaia Ho

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 3 letter from the PublIsher August already? alfway through Tammy Scileppi has in my purse where it largely stays. women explored life, love and new the summer? It given us another won- Even when I’m at my desk, that’s careers, there was naturally often H can’t be but it derful insightful piece where my phone is stored. It doesn’t a delay in not only having children is. The weeks fly by in on the important world follow me everywhere and when I get but in entering into committed rela- a way they don’t when of social media and its home, I seldom am aware of its pres- tionships. Anyway, there are indeed there’s snow and ice affect on our adoles- ence, which is why I still have a land unique issues and this is a good on the ground. Right? cents. Through a fasci- line, otherwise no one can reach me read. Whether it’s vacations nating interview with by phone. But I am not an adolescent Make sure the summer is not going away or days in the Dr. Melissa Robinson- and in fact, am strongly categorized by with your kids no longer reading, park or at the beaches, Brown, they discuss the as a digital immigrant. These young- writing and engaging in learning ac- summers in the city are growing cultural phe- sters are natives. tivities of some kind. The loss of never long enough. nomenon. Make sure to read “Too And don’t miss reading the piece continuity is detrimental. Visit the li- Our issue this month presents our Connected.” on “Older Moms” by another of our braries and read as a family. It’s such annual Fall School Guide. We hope I am a part of this world too. I text, resident writers, Allison Plitt. As one a bonding pleasure. you will take a good look at the many I email, I have two Facebook accounts of those gals myself, I am a true tes- Enjoy the final month of summer. I options around your borough for and am no stranger to social media. tament to the trend that has been know I will. Thanks for reading! education opportunities. So many However, when I end my day and developing, although I do take issue fine professionals throughout our am in our office building elevator, I with her contention that 20 years communities are offering wonderful often am the only rider not holding ago it was unheard of for a woman in choices from daycare to high school. a smartphone and either reading her 40s to be giving birth. Actually, There’s something for everyone. or typing. When I dine out with my it was just starting to be a trend and In addition, this issue has an ar- 20-something daughter, her phone a woman over 35 having a first time Susan Weiss-Voskidis, ticle I think is very important and is always present and beeping with pregnancy was no longer referred to Publisher/Excutive Editor is a must-read. Our resident writer texts coming in and mine is stored as having a “change of life baby.” As [email protected]

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August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 5 tips to help you set fitness goals for your family

By Sara Dimmick porating it into their family time. ing low self-esteem and feeling dis- 10 This trend could very well be a criminated against. And, children t is a warm summer day in one response to the increase in child- and adolescents who are obese are of our many city parks, and a hood obesity. According to the Cen- likely to be obese as adults and are I few families are gathered on the ter for Disease Control, childhood therefore at higher risk for adult lawn doing a combination of stretch- obesity has more than doubled in health problems such as heart dis- ing exercises, an obstacle course, children and quadrupled in adoles- ease, type-2 diabetes, stroke, and and sprints. They are led by an in- cents in the past 30 years. several types of cancer. structor who encouragingly moti- Children who are obese are more Parents and caregivers play a vates each member of the group to likely to have risk factors for car- critical role in shaping how their do his best. This scene is becoming diovascular disease, such as high kids think about living healthy. commonplace throughout the city, cholesterol or high blood pressure Whether it’s setting fitness goals, as more parents are making fitness a — not to mention psycho-social going regularly to the gym, or mak- priority for their families and incor- issues related to obesity including smart food choices, it is impor-

6 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 Parents and caregivers play a critical role in shaping how their kids think about living healthy. Whether it is setting fitness goals, going regularly to the gym, or making smart food choices, it is important for children to see adults Give The Gift Of modeling healthy behaviors and routines. Self Expression! tant for children to see adults 10 tips to get you started: modeling healthy behaviors and Make workouts part of your routines. With demanding work 1. family ritual and schedule the schedules and extracurricular time on your family calendar, so activities, it can be a challenge everyone knows what to expect to find the time for exercise and and when. healthy meal planning. Renee Eanes-Belgrave, a mom Allow kids to decide what of six, says that although she 2. your workout will be (jogging, and her husband Clyde struggle bike riding, calisthenics, etc.). with finding time to exercise, they Reward family members for are trying to make it a part of 3. their participation (movie, a their family routine, because it’s trip to the toy or clothing store, something healthy that their kids screen time). enjoy. Use sprints and obstacle “Family time is so important to courses to create friendly us,” says Eanes-Belgrave. “With 4. competition. This makes workouts such a range of ages in our family, more exciting. exercise is a great activity that brings us all together. And, a little Rotate who in the family will healthy competition amongst the 5. lead a group workout. kids motivates them to do what Encourage kids to food shop they can.” 6. with you. If they are part of One of the most important the process of choosing what to ways to teach kids about living stock the fridge with, they will healthy is to show them that it is more likely want to eat their selec- fun! Norman Turkowitz, a dad of tions. two who has run the New York marathon more than 20 times, For that picky eater in your says he can still recall the special 7. household, keep introducing times he spent with his dad play- healthy food over and over. Re- ing sports and exercising. Today, member it takes 10-plus times for a child to take to a food. he tries to create similar experi- Weston Heather Photo by ences and memories for his kids. Leave your fruit bowl in a “It’s all about setting realistic 8.place where kids can easily goals and having fun while trying grab an apple or a banana. to reach them.” Stock your fridge with veggies Dr. Cindy Baskin, internist at and cover all the colors of the Weill Cornell Medical Center, 9. rainbow: red peppers, zucchini, Dance • Drama • Music • Art agrees that kids are impression- broccoli, purple cabbage. Have able and need to be exposed to kids help you prepare meals. positive habits in order to adopt them. Plan active vacations that 310 Atlantic Avenue • Brooklyn, New York 11201 “Children are far more likely 10. involve walking, hiking, or to develop healthy habits if they other sports-related activities. If a 119 Union Street • Brooklyn, New York 11231 see their parents making smart relaxing vacation is planned, try to diet choices and living an active do one active thing each day. lifestyle,” says Baskin. “That mes- Sara Dimmick is a new mother and sage is so much stronger than a co-founder of Physical Equilibrium, 718.797.5600 doctor who tells a child to ‘eat which provides fitness and wellness your fruits and vegetables and do experiences for New York City fami- daily exercise.’” lies. Her motto is “create balance and www.creativeartsstudio.com Want to kick-start a healthy have fun!” Ask her your fitness-related routine for your family? Here are questions at [email protected]. August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 7 created in their 30s, when they were more fertile. There are many reasons for women postponing childhood. One Issues facing the motive could possibly be that people, in general, are living longer lives. Another factor is that women are finding fulfilling careers during their childbearing years. Some women have not yet found a partner with whom to have a child. Lois Nachamie, a board-certified psychotherapist, counsels women older mom having children later in life, as well as their families. Fifteen years ago, By Allison Plitt gies, women have more opportuni- Nachamie, who was 42 when she As science ties available to them to have chil- had a baby, published a book called he number of women in the dren after 35. “So Glad We Waited: A Hand-Holding allows births United States giving birth to Just recently the media has fo- Guide for Over-35 Parents,” with a for- T children after the age of 35 cused on several women, such as ward by actress Debra Winger. Fifteen later in life, is rising, according to a report pub- singer Sophie B. Hawkins, who have years later, 35 doesn’t seem so old to lished in 2014 by the Center for Dis- decided to have a baby at the age wait and have a baby now that moth- mothers face ease Control and Prevention. of 50. They have been able to get ers are becoming pregnant at 50. Twenty years ago it would have pregnant through technological de- “I think by the time a woman is 50, new challenges been unheard of for a woman to give velopments with in vitro fertiliza- she’s made an active decision. You birth in her 40s. Thanks to advances tions, such as using donor eggs or can’t rely on your regular cycle. You in assisted reproductive technolo- unfreezing eggs or embryos women have to make use of a lot of assisted

8 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 don’t like sitting on the floor and playing games. That depends on KAUFMAN CHILDREN’S “The birth of a child the personality of the mother.” to an older mother Older mothers, furthermore, can find their teenage children emotion- DENTAL HOSPITAL is a very treasured ally challenging when they reach adolescence, Nachamie believes, and cherished event. saying “these kids may be embarrassed by their mothers when they Setting limits is reach their teen years. Children sometimes harder than start to worry that their parents are going to die, which they often when you have a child don’t talk about, but they certainly are aware of.” at a younger age.” From her work counseling families, she’s seen the problem technology poses to older mothers. reproduction by the time you’re 50, “If a woman is over 50, her rela- so these women have made a con- tionship with technology, no matter sidered choice,” Nachamie says. how technically savvy she is right Nachamie also takes into consid- now, is still a real, hard disconnect • Board Certiﬁ ed Pediatric Dentists, Orthodontists, & Anesthesiologists eration the rising life expectancy in between how much kids use tech- • Affordable, Safe, And Gentle Dental Care For Infants, Children, And the United States and other econom- nology and how much time they Adolescents By Specialists ically developed countries. spend with their family. Common “Our life expectancy has cer- sense tells you that the more a kid • Laughing Gas And General Anesthesia Available tainly increased dramatically and is involved with any kind of technol- • Convenient Hours, And Many Insurances Accepted the ability to combat disease and ogy, the less they’re involved with maintain a preventive kind of life- another human being,” she says. www.kcdh.org style means that a woman in her Another obstacle Nachamie con- 50s in this day and age, if she’s siders is the possibility of older 2120 Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn taking care of herself, is pretty mothers becoming grandparents. (718) 645-1588 healthy. She’s not like a woman in “An older mother might be a Kaufman Children’s Dental Hospital 103 St. Mark’s Place, Manhattan @KCDentalH her 50s fifty years ago,” she says. grandparent, but if your own child She also says older mothers in wants to wait until they’re 40 years Мы говорим по-русски. (212) 432-5234 Hablamos Español! good physical health should not be old to have a baby, then the mother too anxious about the physical chal- is 90. I don’t think that should stop lenges of raising a toddler. anybody. I just don’t think it’s some- “I think people are often worried thing that hits people until they are about the physical challenges, but older and their child is older.” NOEL POINTER FOUNDATION even if you might have creaky knees Despite the challenges mothers when you’re 60, if you’re in good 50 and older experience, Nachamie September 2015 – May 2016 shape, the physical challenges aren’t still holds their tenacity and deter- as horrendous as people fear.” mination in high regard. She advises older mothers to “The 50 year old who has de- Saturday String Program take precautions when parenting, cided to have a child, in my opin- 9:00 am – 4:30 pm telling them not to indulge to their ion, is a very brave woman. I be- New! Parent & Me Classes child’s every whim. lieve from a psychological point Saturdays 8:30 – 9:00 am “The birth of a child to an older of view, when the biological urge Children ages 3 – 4 with a parent/guardian mother is a very treasured and cher- was upon her, she had other things ished event. It’s not a mistake by any going on and so now, psychologi- Music and Theory Instruction stretch of the imagination. Because cally, she is allowing love into her the child is so wanted in terms of life,” she says. Violin • Viola • Cello parenting, it becomes a little trick- “Clearly what a child does is Double Bass • Guitar • Piano ier,” she cautions. “Setting limits is bring love into the home,” she adds. sometimes harder than when you “It gives us someone to love uncon- Open House have a child at a younger age be- ditionally. So I think the 50 year September 12th • 10:00 am – 2:00 pm cause you’re so happy to have this old who has decided to do that is a kid that you kind of don’t want to very brave human being. I admire Special 5% Discount say ‘no.’ ” them tremendously and they have Nachamie has also seen older brought something to this relation- Applied to All Tuition Paid in Full mothers struggle in raising tod- ship that a younger woman may by September 15th, 2015 dlers. have not.” “I think the other thing for To learn more about Lois Nach- 247 Herkimer Street women over 50 is that the tod- amie’s books and insights into parent- (Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration) dler years can be trying and ex- ing, visit www.loisnachamie.com. hausting. Some people find it just Allison Plitt is a freelance writer noelpointer.org fabulous and they think everything who lives in Queens with her husband [email protected] their kid does is spectacular. Other and young daughter. She is a frequent women are really bored and they contributor to New York Parenting. 718-230-4825

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 9 Too connected By Tammy Scileppi reach out to someone — but it seems sharing, a growing desire for instant How sexting, back then, folks had more of it. gratification (which we may be pass- s millennials pass the torch Everyone enjoyed chatting, gos- ing on to our kids), and an obsessive texting, and to a new generation of amaz- siping, sharing and commiserat- need to connect and reach out 24 A ing kids, and the social ing — offline. Friends and relatives hours a day, seven days a week, yet the social media frenzy reaches fever pitch, would enjoy passing actual photos in limited and perhaps, less mean- parents are getting even more frus- around and carried several in their ingful ways. These changes have trated with the amount of time their wallet or purse. And it worked just gradually transformed how we and media frenzy youngsters spend texting, and worry fine. Many folks, who remember that our kids relate to each other and about the sexting epidemic they era, talk about those days with a others in our personal and profes- are affecting keep hearing about. sense of longing. Some youngins sional lives. Even though they’re all signs of refer to them as “dinosaurs.” Flirt- Some signs are already there: and shaping the times, these issues may be creating and courting was done the old- Consider how difficult it is for many ing an emotional fireball that could fashioned way, as well, not by texting tweens and teens to converse with affect your child’s psyche, and trig- and sexting, of course. And it was so each other or with family members our adolescents ger negative repercussions down the romantic! How can texts with smiley and peers one-on-one. And, why road. faces and flowery e-mails replace read articles and books when you pillow talk (you and your true love can get quick info and news from the Kids these days! chatting over the phone at bedtime) internet, they ask. We, as parents Recent TV commercials are great and hand- or type-written love let- know that some of what’s out there examples of how our culture is evolv- ters sprayed with perfume? in cyberspace is misleading or inac- ing. One favorite shows a dad and his In fact, until recent times, most of curate, but they don’t quite get it. two teen daughters relaxing on their us were quite “innocent,” and didn’t Putting pen to paper is becoming a living room couch; he’s sitting in the even know what sexting meant, until thing of the past, as is cursive writ- middle. The girls are texting away a certain local politician made head- ing and learning penmanship. It’s on their cellphones. Curious, dad lines (several years back) when his quicker and easier to send important asks them if they’re texting each salacious cellular escapades were messages or express certain emo- other. The girls respond yes matter- suddenly uncovered. tions (OMG! LOL!), and even say “I of-factly. He seems a bit baffled and love you” via text or email. #what a is probably wondering: why can’t Our information age shame! they just talk to each other?! How lucky we are to live in an Undoubtedly, social media is a Another popular commercial exciting era marked by constant powerful, dynamic force in our lives. sends a similar message, but in this change and possibilities; overflow- It’s fun, entertaining, and extremely one, the parent seems to be taking ing with newfangled technology and useful, but as we all know, it can also her kids’ texting craze in stride and state-of-the-art gadgets, created by serve as a force for evil. Like the inter- has probably decided: If you can’t great minds! It’s hard to believe we net, and tweeting, it’s a double-edged beat ’em, join ’em. A family gath- practically have the entire universe sword — and can be dangerous. ers at the breakfast table; they’re at our fingertips; that we can reach anxiously waiting for their favorite out to others in a variety of excit- Friends and likes? waffles to pop out of the toaster. The ing ways in just milliseconds, and It’s a known fact that less Face- adolescent daughter and her mom across cyberspace — without ever book “likes” and cyber-bullying can are texting back and forth in a funny, uttering a word or speaking to an- cause kids to feel unpopular, de- heated battle over who will be the other human being if we so choose. pressed, and even suicidal. Parents waffle winner, as the youngest child Happily or sadly (depending on your and caregivers: keep reminding snatches one and runs off with it. perspective), there’s no going back; those kids that hundreds of social In real life, most parents probably the genie is forever out of the bottle, media “friends” aren’t as important wouldn’t go for a one-on-one texting granting our collective, ever-increas- as having just a few real ones. And scenario at meal time. Would you? ing wish for speed, progress, and the that sometimes, BFFs aren’t your Before the words internet, e-mail, next coolest thing in a culture that best friends forever; they can turn instant messaging, chatting, texting, some say is marred by superficial- around and say mean things about sexting, tweeting, likes, friending, ity, ignorance, and self-destructive you with a few cunning keystrokes and hashtag were coined, people divisiveness. and clicks. But it’s our job to remind (younger and older) connected with We’re witnessing so many won- them that it’s definitely not the end one another the old-school way: by derfully innovative developments, of the world! And that they aren’t de- simply talking face-to-face, or over but at what cost to our kids? fined by that meaningless nonsense. the phone, and by writing notes and One day, when we look back, we’ll Every era and time period, like letters. Sure, it was boring and basic, see that the Zeitgeist — the spirit every person, has its own personal- and far less creative than today’s of our times — was in large part ity and spirit. We are all a product plethora of communication options defined by the high-tech revolution, of our times in some ways — the — and it also took a bit more time to speedy information gathering and culture we grew up in. That said,

10 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 In this enlightening, informative interview, the mother of two helps parents and caregivers understand a growing cultural phenomena, i.e. social media, texting, and sexting. She talks about how all this stuff affects our children as they transition into real-world relationships. Tammy Scileppi: Why has sexting become so popular? Melissa Robinson- Brown: Puberty and adolescence have his- torically been a time of change and identity development. Moreover, teens experience significant distress over these two key elements. Teens are curious and hormonal. They are trying to fit in, trying to develop relationships, exploring their sexuality, and testing limits — their own and their parents’. Today’s generation does a large majority of this exploration via technology and social media. A significant majority (if not all) of adolescents have a phone or some access to the internet, and they are constantly staying in contact with peers. Long ago, we used the phone or in-person conversations to have sug- gestive or flirtatious conversations with our potential or current part- ners. We might have talked about sex and even suggested that the person might get to “see!” Remember that old line, “You show me yours, I’ll show you mine?” Well, that hasn’t many parents are changed. It’s just become more tech- now witnessing nologically advanced. Teens don’t how their tweens and have to wait until they are physically teens are being affected by with someone to “show theirs.” It can the culture they live in, and ers to keep them as safe as possible quences, or about cause and effect be done with a quick “snap photo” would agree that the sexting craze no matter how old they are, and keep — and that’s a big problem! and “send.” It has become a part of and social media frenzy a bit scary. the lines of communication open — Dr. Melissa Robinson-Brown is an courting and flirting. It’s all done via They’re just not sure how to deal despite their protests to leave them assistant professor in Pediatrics and technology. with it, since “everybody’s doing it” alone. And kids should be reminded Psychiatry, co-director of Psychol- Given that brain development is and there’s so much peer pressure. often that inappropriate texts, sex- ogy Training Program, and licensed still happening during adolescence Sound familiar? ting, and questionable social media clinical psychologist at the Mount and impulsivity is high, often, teens But there does seem to be a way posts can end up in the wrong hands Sinai Adolescent Health Center in aren’t thinking about the possible to better grasp how this cultural and cause havoc in their young lives. Manhattan. She provides individual, repercussions of sending pictures of phenomena can be dealt with and Future employers, friends, and love group, and family therapy, as well their bodies via text message. It’s not reined in. interests can easily look back and as psychological testing. The cen- something that previous generations view all that awkward, embarrass- ter provides medical, mental health, had to think about, which means Protecting them ing, unfiltered stuff posted on kids’ dental, and optical services to ado- parents may not always be thinking We know that kids’ personalities, Facebook pages when they were lescents and young adults ages 10– about how these discussions have to values, and ideas are partly molded younger, very naïve, and caught up 24. happen when they hand their teen a by their parents, but also by outside in the moment. And it’s going to be She lives in Edgewater, New Jer- smartphone! forces: cultural and societal influ- there forever. sey with her family — daughters TS: How can sexting trigger emo- ences that dictate how they think Since adolescent and teen brains Kyah (5), Kahlia (2), and husband tional or mental instability in adoles- and act. Since adolescents and teens aren’t fully developed, youngsters Antoine (a senior director and part- cents and teens? are so impressionable and vulner- tend to focus only on the present; ner at an advertising agency) — but MRB: Well, again, brain develop- able, it’s up to parents and caregiv- they don’t think much about conse- has always practiced in New York. Continued on following page

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 11 Continued from previous page Gotham and doing stuff that will ment and emotional maturity are stimulate your kids’ minds? The idea still developing during adolescence. is to get them away from all those So, already, the foundation is a lit- devices! And for older teens, plan tle rocky. Adolescents deal with so regular activities that will hone their many different emotions already. socialization skills. They are constantly trying to figure As the planet turns, it seems likely out who likes them, who are their that no matter how brilliant, forward- friends, what group they want to be thinking, and tech-savvy our kids a part of, will they be a unique indi- become, and how fast our modern vidual or someone that follows the culture evolves, socializing, connect- crowd? All of these factors affect so- ing, and sharing will always remain cialization. When that sext gets sent, at the core of who we are as human it sometimes goes to the intended beings, while we search for more person and that’s where it stays. But ways to reach out and communicate other times, it has now become a tool in a complex, global world that’s get- for someone else to use, often to bully ting smaller. and degrade individuals. It’s used to Ironically, social media was cre- start rumors and label individuals ated to bring people together, but a “hoe” or a “thot” (that hoe over over-dosing on social media and tex- there). Once that picture has been ting tends to pull us further apart. It spread, there is little that the indi- would be nice if our kids truly under- vidual can do to deny that he or she stood this concept and learned how might be portraying a certain image. to better interact with others in per- At least in previous generations, son, or over the phone, or by writing if a guy claimed to have slept with a letter and mailing it. a girl or guy, it would be a case of he-said–she-said and perhaps, the Unplugging and rumor would eventually die. Now, tuning out there is hard evidence that some- Psychologist Dr. Melissa Robinson-Brown (pictured with daughters Kyah and Kahlia) Everybody has the ability to tune thing happened or at least that the speaks about the dangers of sexting for teens. in to what’s happening out there in a said individual was willing to send flash. Or, choose to unplug and tune the sext. Being bullied or portrayed the message and, unfortunately, so- they don’t want you around, par- out for a while. in this way when it was not the in- cial media can help a picture or sext ents, caregivers, counselors, teach- Some families are experimenting tention of the sext instantly creates spread pretty rapidly! ers, should be paying attention. with a great “new” way of interacting, feelings of anger, sadness, helpless- TS: Is mental illness awareness based on an old-school concept — ness, and shame. When these feel- regarding kids improving? A brave, complicated, it’s called family time. During dinner, ings interact with an already rocky MRB: Mental health awareness and scary new world or at designated times (during the adolescent period, this is definitely a definitely needs to improve! This is Growing up in our fascinating, pro- week, or on weekends), all devices recipe for emotional instability. especially true in teens that often gressive, and brave new world is great; are turned off and put away. Instead TS: In some ways, has social hide symptoms or lack the aware- these are exciting times for everyone, of focusing on their phones, kids media become the culprit for these ness to know that they are having but things are changing around us at spend quality time with their family issues? significant symptoms. A teen doesn’t lightning speed and sometimes, for members, talking about their day or MRB: Social media is a signifi- have to express a depressed mood the worse. And many parents worry week; issues are addressed openly cant part of today’s adolescent pop- for you to know that he or she is that their children are being shaped and hopefully resolved. Discussing ulation. These public forums set the depressed. Instead, parents, caregiv- by what some describe as an anything- current events is optional, and joke- stage for socialization, popularity ers, teachers, counselors, coaches, goes, no-holds-barred society, which telling is especially encouraged, as contests, and bullying. It’s about how and other individuals who work with is hyper-focused on sex, hot celebs, are board games. You never know, many “friends” you can attain and teens need constant psychoeduca- looks, reality TV, social media, and this “radical” idea could eventually how many “likes” you get on a post. tion on what signs to look for. Adults legalizing pot. Some are concerned become a nation-wide trend! Many times, social media makes it need to become more aware of their with a disturbing mind-set and trend Another recent commercial easier to start conversations, meet children’s habits! among some teens, who have a get- seems to sum up the Zeitgeist that people, and become bold! Teens Every time I first meet with a rich-quick-without-working-for-it atti- defines our crazy culture: A family (and adults) say things on social parent of a teen that I am seeing, I tude. How all these variables manifest of four waits in line at the airport; media that they wouldn’t normally praise that parent for recognizing a in our kids’ lives, remains to be seen. they’re looking forward to their is- say in person. It gives you permis- need to seek out professional help Only time will tell. land getaway vacation. While their sion to take off the filters, and I be- for a problem, no matter how big or And there’s evidence that all these teen daughter and adolescent son are lieve it also interferes with the abil- small! That means the parents were distractions — the electronic devices, busy on their cellphones, mom and ity to learn about appropriate social paying attention and that’s where the endless texting and preoccupa- dad happen to mention that there’s cues and in-person socialization. we as parents need to gain mas- tion with social media are very addic- no wifi where they’re going, so they Text messages, messaging on Fa- tery! We need to know our kids and tive. Let’s face it, we adults can’t live suggest that when they get there, cebook, direct messaging on Insta- watch their movements. Are they without our cellphones, iPads, and the kids might want to actually talk, gram, creating stories on Tumbler, eating? Are they sleeping? Have they computers either, and feel lost and for a change. Shocked by this news sending quick messages on Snap- become more withdrawn? How are disconnected without them. flash and visibly shaken, the siblings chat, etc., it all gives teens permis- they doing in school? Who are they Here’s a no-brainer: Now that briefly pause, glance at each other sion to take off the filters and express chatting with on the phone or on text summer’s here, why not spend more and consider the implications. Decid- themselves in a way that they might message? Are they on their phone quality time outdoors with your fam- ing that talking isn’t such a great idea, not otherwise do in person! As such, until late hours? ily, just having good, old-fashioned they shake their heads no, as mom individuals are more likely to send Just pay attention! Even when fun close to home, or exploring turns to dad and says, “I like it!” 12 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 600 DeGraw Street (3rD & 4th aveS)

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August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 13 Keep an eye out By Behlor Santi recommendation, that few parents Emphasize nutrition Tips for abide, toward ‘mindful screen time’ In addition to making your child ot only is August the month in today’s media-manic world.” play, feed him nutritious food. Ex- parents on of hot days and school shop- cess sugar, salt, and fat can lead to N ping, but for the past decade Get your child’s eyes obesity, hardening of the heart’s ar- it’s also been Child Eye Health And examined regularly teries, and elevated blood pressure, protecting Safety Month, a time to observe the According to Prevent Blindness, factors in poor eye health. Struc- health of your children’s eyes. Here an organization dedicated to edu- turing a diet to prevent diabetes are seven tips to ease the stress and cating the public about eye health, also will have an influence on your their child’s yet make certain your child’s eyes parents should first network with children’s health as he grows older. are in good shape: friends, relatives, and co-workers to Diabetes can damage vision. eyesight find eye doctors good with children. Stay up-to-date with “The best thing to have is good infor- Special attention for a screen time research mation,” says Dr. Steven E. Brooks, special-needs child Traditionally, the American Acad- chief of pediatric ophthalmology at If your child has such conditions as emy of Pediatrics has suggested Columbia University Medical Cen- Down syndrome, developmental delay that children over age 2 watch less ter in Manhattan. Just before your and juvenile arthritis, Brooks suggests than one or two hours of television child’s appointment, prepare ques- setting up appointments with pediat- daily. In October 2014, the academy tions for the eye doctor and bring a ric ophthalmology specialists. Chil- debated its recommendations. In teddy bear or other toy along. dren with special needs dispropor- an article published in Slate, Lisa tionately suffer from eye problems. Guernsey of the New America Foun- Protect your child’s • • • dation’s Early Education Initiative, eyes from the sun “I’m an advocate of children re- says, “Let’s face it: Raising chil- Make sure that your child uses ceiving high-quality vision care,” dren turns our hair gray sunscreen. Encourage the use of says Brooks. “Appropriate atten- no matter what. But sunglasses that block excess ultra- tion to safety is always important at least it moves violet, or UV, rays. to make sure preventable injuries us from a ‘no are prevented … annual evaluations screen time’ Sports and eye of vision are important to detect vi- safety go together sion problems early, but also to raise Whether your child plays bas- awareness.” ketball or prefers skateboarding, Regular eye checkups benefit chil- emphasize the wearing of safety dren whether eye problems are de- eyewear. tected or not. For conditions such as strabismus, or crossed eyes, pediat- Get your kids active ric ophthalmologists have effective If your child’s a little couch po- treatments, such as applying deme- tato or video-game fan, encourage carium bromide, or injecting Botox him to be physically active. TV time into affected eye muscles. Even if is not connected to blindness, but your child’s eye health is normal, reg- researchers have found a connec- ular checkups encourage good eye tion between TV or computer time, care. Children see their eye health as called “close work,” and nearsight- important as dental health or fitness. edness. Less close work, and more Check out Eye Spy (http://eyespy. time playing, can reduce the risk of preventblindness.org/index.php), a causing or worsening nearsighted- free, educational website with age- ness, as well as maintain a normal appropriate information on eye anat- body mass index. omy and how the eye works, as well as eye safety. Also check out the National Cen- ter for Family Professional Partner- ship website (www.fv-ncfpp.org/ index.php?cID=567). It has valuable resources concerning eye health for children on the autistic spectrum, as well as resources for parents of children with vision impairment. This August, do more than stay cool and prepare your child for the school year. Protect your child’s sight and allow him to see every day well. 14 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 After School Center Congregation Beth Elohim After School Center 274 GarfieldCongregation Place, Park Beth Slope, Elohim Brooklyn 274 Garfield Place, Park Slope, Brooklyn INSTRUCTIONAL CLASSES IN A WIDE VARIETY OF AREAS INCLUDING t48*. It7NSTRUCTIONAL*%&0 CLASSESt. IN"/%"3*/ A WIDE$)*/&4& VARIETY t'OF "3.AREAS505"#-& INCLUDING$00,*/( t)"33:1055&34105*0/4 t4103548*. t$t7*%&0)&44 t4t.1"/*4)"/%"3*/$)*/&4& t#t'"3.00,.",*/(505"#-&$00,*/( t4t)"33:&8*/(1055&34105*0/4 t5t4)&"5&310354 t$00,*/()&44 t0t41"/*4)1&/"35456%*0 t1t#"1&300,.",*/(.",*/( t1t4)050(3"1):&8*/( t3t5)&"5&3&$:$-&%30#054 t#t$"--&500,*/(5"1%"/$& t$t00.165&341&/"35456%*0 t:t10(""1&3.",*/( t-t1&(04)050(3"1): t3&$:$-&%30#054 t#"--&55"1%"/$& t$0.165&34 t:0(" t-&(04

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August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 15 Wheel power

By Jennifer Warner a better mood and were better able school a smooth and pleasurable How to to process feelings after they biked. experience. here’s a group of kids that A separate study published in the Invest in a good floor pump and prepare your have an unfair advantage Journal of Pediatric Psychology dis- make sure you have everyone’s T over your children. They do covered that regular exercise im- tires properly inflated. Also, have better in school, are more social, proves self-esteem in children, and a secure bike lock for each of your child for and have fewer health problems in research shows that kids who bike kids’ bicycles and practice locking childhood and adulthood than all regularly are less likely to be over- them up properly together. U-locks their peers. Who are these overweight in childhood and nearly 50 and cables are an effective combi- riding a bike achieving stars? They are the kids percent less likely to be overweight nation and lightweight enough that who bike to school. as adults. your kid can probably tote them in to school For many adults, the idea of biking With schools devoting less and a backpack without a problem. to school seems like a quaint mem- less time to physical education and Not sure how to lock up a bi- ory of a bygone era, but the families sports, one in three children in the cycle? Visit mycitybikes.org/bike- whose children are pedaling to the U.S. is dangerously overweight or to-school for step-by-step instruc- classroom each morning know dif- obese, and 6.5 million kids living tions. ferent. They know that daily dose of with attention deficit hyperactivity biking improves their kids’ academ- disorder, it is more important than Drive it first ics and attitude, and makes up for ever for parents to take control. The scariest parts of biking to the lack of physical activity they may One of the most affordable and school are intersections. What bet- experience at other times. practical ways to make sure your ter way to know how to deal with The benefits of biking are so pow- children are thriving and getting the traffic than to drive in it? Think erful, in fact, that a regular bike ride daily physical activity they need is to about your family’s route from a has actually been proven to help ease bike them to school. It’s easier than car’s perspective. Where are the the signs of attention deficit hyperac- you think. If you live within five miles blind spots? Where are the cross- tivity disorder! A study by Specialized of your child’s school, getting there walks? Use this knowledge to map Bikes Foundation and RTSG Neurosci- by bike may actually take you less out the safest route, and keep in ence (a team of physical education time than getting there by car. mind that you may be one of the consultants) explored whether or not Once you have your prep down, it’s very lucky people who can incorpo- children diagnosed with ADHD could a breeze, and you’ll enjoy the added rate a bike path into the commute. benefit from a bike ride. What they benefit of getting some exercise Bike paths are separated from traf- found was incredible. yourself! To start biking your kids to fic and have fewer intersections For children with attention issues, school, just remember these tips. with roads and the cars that drive the study found that a bike ride on them than riding on the sidewalk actually changed the neuro-electric Air in the tires or bike lane. activity of their brain to a more “nor- A little prep goes a long way Check your local app on mycity- mal” pattern. Study participants had towards making your bike ride to bikes.org/new-york or traillink.com

16 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 to see where the bike paths life easier, but you’ll be more com- are in your area. fortable knowing that your surrogate bike leader has the same expecta- Helmets for everyone tions and plans as you do. Sharing Make sure everyone has their the responsibility will free up some safety gear on. Including you. Prop- of your mornings while ensuring that erly fitting helmets, front and rear your kids are getting the best pos- blinking bike lights, and bright-col- sible start to every single day. ored and reflective jackets, vests or To build up your own confidence accessories will keep you safe and on the bike, consider taking a main- visible on your ride. tenance class or joining a group ride You are your child’s example, so hosted by your local bike shop. For save yourself the hassle of an “I’m example, 718 Cyclery in Brooklyn not wearing that” tantrum by show- hosts regular city riding clinics to ing your kids how you strap on your teach less-experienced riders how helmet, turn on your bike lights, to maneuver their bike and handle and wear your safety gear. What’s biking in traffic scenarios. normal for you will become normal Many shops like 718 Cyclery for them. have free, scheduled maintenance classes where you can learn basics Divide and conquer like changing a flat tire, adjusting When you share the respon- the seat height, or keeping a bike’s sibility of driving your kids moving parts clean and lubricated. to school with neighbors or You’ll feel more confident and in family members, it’s called control when you learn how to save “carpooling.” Do the same the day in the event of a technical by bike and you’re “bike- mishap. pooling.” Visit mycitybikes.org to connect Plan your route and safety proto- with a local bike shop in your area cols together with another trusted and find local bike ed opportunities parent. for grown-ups. Do all the steps above together at Jennifer Warner is a beginner bik- least once, so you make sure you’re ing advocate and outreach director at on the same page. My City Bikes, the first and only public Not only will this make everyone’s health campaign dedicated to support-

SOURCES Nearly two-thirds of children 9–13 do not participate in any organized physical activity outside of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention school, and 23 percent don’t engage in any free- http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html time physical activity at all. http://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/obesity/ Duke, J., et al., 2003 – Physical activity levels facts.htm among children aged 9–13 years: United States, Can cycling help manage ADHD in kids? 2002, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 52, http://www.specialized.com/OA_MEDIA/pdf/ 785-788 Specialized_infographic_2.23.15_novideo.pdf Participation in physical activity is positively re- Children who ride a bike two or more times a lated to academic performance in children. week are less likely to be overweight. Singh, A., et al., 2012 – Physical activity and Dudas, R., and M. Crocetti, 2008 – Association performance at school: A systematic review of the of bicycling and childhood overweight status, Am- literature including a methodological quality assess- bulatory Pediatrics, 8, 392–395 ment, Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescents who participate in bicycling, in-line Adolescent Medicine, 166, 1 skating, or skateboarding more than four times a week Regular exercise reduces depression and im- are 48 percent less likely to be overweight as adults. proves self-esteem in overweight children. Menschik, D., et al., 2008 – Adolescent physi- Petty, K., et al., 2008 – Exercise effects on cal activities as predictors of young adult weight, depressive symptoms and self-worth in overweight Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, 162, children: A randomized controlled trial, Journal of 23–28 Pediatric Psychology

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 17 Parenting Five tips to reduce performance anxiety

Dear Dr. Karyn, My daughter is 26 years old and although she is an adult, she still lives Dear at home with us and suffers a lot of performance anxiety at her new job. Dr. Karyn Growing up she was an overachiever Dr. Karyn GorDon — always struggling to be at the top of her class and sport teams, and now I see this in her professional life. The irony is that all my friends think I have this dream child, but really I am deeply concerned for how much pressure she puts on herself and her overall happiness. She seems miserable and very unhappy. Any suggestions would be helpful!

ou may be surprised how many people actually experi- Y ence anxiety or performance anxiety. In fact, years ago when I was speaking at a human resources conference in Ottawa, I shared that we are seeing epidemic rates of anxiety among those from Generation Y (those born generally between early 1980s and early 2000s), and I was approached by a millennial immediately after my presentation. She thanked me for helping her better understand herself and admitted that the week prior she had been out for dinner with several of her Gen Y colleagues, and learned that she ing center and we consistently see that is underlying it (ex. what if I was the only one not on anti-anxi- outstanding results; we have found don’t pass this test?; what if I don’t ety medication. She was concerned the first and most important step is get this promotion?; what if I don’t that employers needed to hear more to simply understand it. I trust you get into this university?) The feel- about this, because it is such a prev- will find these five tips helpful! ing is not the problem — it’s the alent part of the millennial experi- thought! Anxiety tends to be driven ence, and that more sick days should Understand anxiety by thoughts related to the future and be made available to employees who Many people think anxiety is bad “what if’s.” struggle with anxiety. or wrong, which is simply not true! Regardless of what you think of Part of managing emotions is un- Understand the her suggestion I will tell you that it’s derstanding them. The truth is we performance easy to criticize and point fingers have hundreds of emotions (some anxiety ‘lie’ at this generation until you start experts say up to 3,000) and anxiety Performance anxiety is a more to understand why they are this is simply one of them. Feelings are specific type of anxiety in that it is way! I strongly believe that the root not good or bad — just pleasant or connected directly to performance of this anxiety epidemic is that we unpleasant. I often say anxiety is our (school, sports or work). I see this a have not done a great job at helping “friend” not our enemy — it’s simply lot when I work with high-perform- and teaching these next two genera- trying to tell us something and we ing students, athletes, professionals tions, Y and Z, to learn how to cope need to stop and pay attention! and entrepreneurs. The irony is that with adversity, failure, and rejection. Thoughts drive emotions — so on the outside, these people (usu- Anxiety is one of the most common when someone is feeling anxious it’s ally over-achievers) appear great! topics we work with at our counsel- usually because of a toxic thought They are often the top of their class,

18 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 receiving the highest professional ing on my speaking ability, not my awards or getting the latest promo- character or who I am. tions. I had to make sure my self-worth And I want to emphasize that was not connected to whether or there is nothing wrong or un- not I was a good speaker. Speaking healthy about achieving, but the was simply a job I was doing and I challenge arises when these high- needed to be able to study the data performers start to attach their so I could improve, not obsess over self-worth to what they do — that’s whether people liked me! the real problem! Their thinking is “I’m okay if I achieve,” so they often Accept what you struggle with issues of confidence cannot control and perfection. In fact, I often say When I think about the high- that anxiety, low self-esteem, and performing individuals I’ve worked perfection are three best friends with regarding their anxiety, the who often hang out — they are all common thread is that they are separate issues that are very inter- living their life opposite to what connected. I suggest for tips four and five. They are focusing on what they Focus on what can’t control, which will drive their you can control anxiety through the roof. We can- The secret to changing how we not control whether people like feel (we can’t do it directly) is to us, whether we get the job promo- change how we think. Our minds tion, or anything else that is in the are extremely powerful, and the future. great thing is that we can control But we can control today — how the thoughts we are telling our- we think and what we do! We can selves! If we feed ourselves toxic control whether we are telling our- thoughts, we will feel terrible! If we selves healthy thoughts, detach- feed ourselves healthy thoughts, ing our self-worth from our perfor- we will feel confident, happy, and mance, trying our absolute best, or peaceful. surrounding ourselves with those When I speak at schools and or- we can learn from and simply ganizations or work with individu- learning from our “failures.” These als, I emphasize that we need to are the strategies that will not only IndoorIndoor AAttractionttraction • LEGOLEGO® RidesRides • LEGOLEGO® MINILAND change the thinking from “I’m okay minimize anxiety, but also lead to LLEGOEGO® StudiosStudios 4D Cinema • PlayPlay Zone • SShophop anandd CafCaféé if _____” to “I’m okay as I am! Yes, greater success! LEGO® Master Builder Academy • LEGO® Factory Tour I may like to work on _____, but Many of my anxious high-per- LEGO® Racers: Build & Test • Birthday Rooms my self-worth is not based on my forming clients have admitted to achievements.” me that they were afraid to let go of When we have the courage to their unrealistic, unhealthy, unlov- change the things within our con- ing thinking that their self-worth is trol (and have a plan to do so), based on their achievement. They we will start to feel our anxiety were afraid that if they didn’t think decrease. this way their performance and SAVE $10 drive would decrease (even though Re-define failure they would likely be happier). Can a on One Child Ticket Part of healthy thinking is re-de- person change her thinking? Abso- 7cidcb8]gW`U]aYf.C YfjU`]XZcf%$c cbYghUbXUfX fining failure or negative feedback. I lutely!! We’ve helped thousands of child admission ticket price at LEGOLAND®8]gWcjYfm 7YbhYfKYghW\YghYf"AUmbchVYWcaV]bYXk]h\Ubm once heard someone say that when clients radically reduce their anxi- ch\YfX]gWcibhg Wcidcbg cfc Yfg"BchjU`]Xk]h\ he fails he simply studies the fail- ety and increase their confidence! dfY!Vcc_YX cb`]bYh]W_Yhg UbXV]fh\XUmdUfh]Yg" ure as data. He doesn’t personalize What surprises most of them is Cf][]bU`WcidcbaighVYdfYgYbhYXUhh\Yh]aYcZ difW\UgY"5``W\]`XfYbaighVYUWWcadUb]YXVmUbUXi`h" it, it’s simply information for him that not only are they much hap- 5Xi`hgaUmcb`mj]g]hk]h\UW\]`X cfcbgY`YWh5Xi`h to study and learn from so he can pier, but they also often achieve 9jYb]b[g"8id`]WUh]cbcfgU`YcZh\]gc Yf]gdfc\]V]hYX" improve. This type of thinking is more because they are more fear- BcWUg\jU`iY"BchfYXYYaUV`YZcfWUg\cfWfYX]h" extremely healthy! less and courageous with taking Valid thru 6/30/2016. GC: 151052 When I started speaking profes- risks. What a great side-effect of sionally many years ago, I decided eliminating anxiety! it was imperative to always (and I Dr. Karyn Gordon is one of North mean always) get feedback sheets America’s leading relationship and from my audience. This can be a parenting experts. She is a regular little risky, because feedback in- contributor to “Good Morning Amer- Call today – 866.243.5664 cludes both the positive and the ica,” founder of dk Leadership, best- www.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com/Westchester negatives! At first when I started selling author of “Dr. Karyn’s Guide asking for this feedback, I will To The Teen Years” (Harper Collins), admit that I often took the negative and motivational speaker to a quarter feedback personally, but I quickly of a million people. Visit her at www. @9;C h\Y@9;C`c[c h\Y6f]W_UbX?bcVWcbÑ[ifUh]cb h\YA]b]Ñ[ifYUbX realized I needed to stop doing dkleadership.org and on Twitter: @ LEGOLAND are atrademarks of the LEGO Groip. ©2015 The LEGO Groip. this. People were simply comment- DrKarynGordon.

AugustMonth 2015 2015 • BROOKLYN • XXXXX FamiFamilyly 1947 The post-baby Understanding postpartum mood disturbances blues By Denise yearian O’Neill. Shortly after her daughter of depression and knew I needed was born, this mother began experi- help.” ost women experience encing troubling symptoms. “Up to 80 percent of new mothers some form of postpartum “It started in the hospital when experience baby blues and have mild M mood disturbance follow- I had problems with breastfeed- feelings of depression, but problems ing the birth of their child. For many, ing, and by the time I got home, I that persist beyond two weeks could the symptoms are mild and disap- was feeling all the pressures of new be pointing to postpartum depres- pear within two weeks. But a small motherhood,” she says. “That first sion,” says Janet Brown, a perinatal percentage of mothers go on to de- week, I was very teary, but I chalked behavioral health specialist. “And its velop one or more postpartum mood it up to baby blues and thought I’d be appearance may be delayed for up to disorders including depression, anx- OK soon. By week two, I found my- a year after giving birth.” iety, and psychosis. self waking up shaking due to panic Dr. Katharine Weymouth, a private The good news is that with inter- attacks. I wasn’t able to eat or sleep practicing psychiatrist specializing vention, women can recover. either. Having been a social worker, in women’s mental health, agrees. This was the case with Julie I was familiar with the symptoms “The symptoms go beyond fatigue,

disorder that occurs in only one to More on postpartum mood disorders two percent of women who deliver. Women with a personal or family sion and can include sadness, lack breathing, tight chest, and numb- Symptoms usually develop within history of mood disorders should of interest in things (particularly ness in hands and feet. 48 to 72 hours postpartum and can talk with their physician prior to bonding with the baby), feelings • Postpartum obsessive-compul- include delusions, hallucinations, conceiving, as they are at a higher of guilt or inadequacy, worthless- sive disorder symptoms include disorganized speech, and inappro- risk of developing conditions while ness, irritability, impatience, sense repetitive behaviors or thoughts priate behavior. Symptoms may also pregnant or postpartum. If any of of hopelessness, insomnia, change which cause anxiety, worry or be preceded by a period of restless- these symptoms of postpartum in appetite or concentration, dif- panic. It may also be accompanied ness or agitation. Women with a mood disturbances persist two ficulty enjoying things, and recur- by protective behaviors and con- history of bipolar disorder are at a weeks after delivery, women should ring harmful or suicidal thoughts. stant, obtrusive thoughts related higher risk for developing postpar- get an evaluation by their physician Symptoms can occur soon after de- to the baby’s safety. Note this is tum psychosis, and in-patient psy- or mental health professional. livery or up to a year postpartum. not postpartum psychosis. Women chiatric treatment and medication Baby Blues occur in up to 80 Postpartum anxiety disorders, with obsessive-compulsive have may be required immediately. percent of new mothers due in which include anxiety, panic, ob- no intent of harming their child. part to hormonal changes postpar- sessive-compulsive, and post-trau- These thoughts are very disturbing Resources tum. Symptoms, which include ex- matic stress disorders, occur in to them, and because they don’t • Postpartum Support Inter- treme tearfulness, irritability, anxi- up to 10 percent of women suffer- understand it, the condition is ac- national is an organization dedi- ety, mood swings, feelings of inad- ing with postpartum depression. companied by fear, shame, and cated to providing information, re- equacy, insomnia and fatigue, can Symptoms vary according to disor- emotional turmoil. This is, in fact, sources, and support on postpar- appear right after delivery, peak at der and may come and go, but one the one disorder people know the tum issues. For more information, five days, and usually disappear by common characteristic they share least about and most women are visit www.postpartum.net, or call 12 days postpartum. A small per- is excessive worry that interferes afraid to talk about for fear others (800) 944–4773. centage of women with baby blues with one’s ability to function. Fol- will think they are crazy. • Www.MedEdPPD.org was de- go on to develop postpartum de- lowing is a breakdown: • Postpartum traumatic stress veloped by the National Institute for pression. Baby blues are the only • Postpartum anxiety disorder disorder occurs in women who Mental Health to provide informa- one of these conditions considered symptoms could include feeling experienced trauma during preg- tion about postpartum depression. a disturbance, not a disorder. keyed up, tiring easily, irritability, nancy, labor, or delivery. Symp- • Www.womensmentalhealth. Postpartum depression occurs fidgety, insomnia, and difficulty fo- toms, which can occur up to two org is an online resource created in up to 13 to 15 percent of women cusing. months after delivery, can include by Massachusetts General Hospital and is said to be the most com- • Postpartum panic disorder is flashbacks about what happened, as a way to provide up-to-date in- mon complication of childbearing. characterized by sweating, trem- nightmares, and hyper vigilance. formation and resources on wom- Symptoms parallel clinical depres- bling, nausea, dizziness, difficulty Postpartum psychosis is a rare en’s mental health issues.

20 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 rib cage and stabbing me in the heart. I didn’t want to interact with my daughter, either. I would sit and watch her play, but instead of joining in, I’d curl up in a ball and cry,” she says of her now 3-year-old. “I knew I needed help, but I thought I could take care of it myself. On top of that, I was embarrassed and didn’t want anyone to know.” Then two-and-a-half years later, while taking her daughter for a checkup, Lohr broached the subject. “I told the doctor I knew I suffered from postpartum depression, and now it had gotten worse. So she asked me, ‘On a scale from one to 10, how happy are you right now — 10 being the happiest?’ I told her ‘three,’ then burst into tears,” she says. Lohr was diagnosed with anxiety and severe depression that stemmed from postpartum. “The doctor explained that it’s like a disease and needs to be treated. I started on Citalopram [an antide- pressant], and a week later, I was feeling better,” she says. Treatment options vary depending on the disorder and severity of symptoms. “Some women do fine with support groups. But others may need one-on-one therapy with a mental health professional to help develop new coping strategies,” says Brown. “Medication may also be adminis- tered where symptoms are significant.” One thing O’Neill found particularly helpful were the support group meetings. “It was good to be with other moms who were feeling the same way. We connected through our struggles and drew strength from one another,” she says. O’Neill, in fact, continued to attend meetings even after she had re- covered, to encourage other moms, and has since started a second sup- irritability, and difficulty concentrat- and intervention is key. diagnosed with postpartum depres- port group that meets at a different ing. That’s considered normal when “What many people don’t realize sion and anxiety. They put me on location. More recently, she joined caring for an infant,” she says. “Post- is women are at risk for these condi- medication with continued moni- the team of Postpartum Support In- partum depression can include sad- tions while pregnant as well. So I sug- toring and recommended I join the ternational to work as an advocate ness, irritability, insomnia, fatigue, gest they talk with their doctor be- support group offered through the for new mothers and their families. feelings of guilt or worthlessness, fore they conceive to avoid potential hospital. Six weeks later, I was feel- Today, she’s on a mission: “I want change in appetite or concentration, problems, particularly if they have ing better.” to tell mothers that postpartum de- difficulty enjoying things, and recur- a history of depression or anxiety,” For Crystal Lohr, intervention pression is treatable, and you’re ring thoughts of harming one’s self.” says Weymouth. wasn’t immediate, and she suffered not alone. With the help of support In addition to postpartum depres- By week’s end, O’Neill had con- severely as a result. A week after giv- groups, counseling, and medication, sion, mothers may experience one tacted her physician. But the doctor ing birth to her daughter, this single it will get better,” she says. “Now that or more of the four postpartum anxi- on call phoned in a prescription her mother started having nightmares I’m expecting again, I have the tools ety disorders or postpartum psy- insurance wouldn’t cover. that left her trembling in sweaty to get through this, should it happen chosis, a rare condition character- “That Monday, I took myself to sobs. again.” ized by disorganized thinking, hal- the hospital, and they referred me “A-year-and-a-half later, I began Denise Yearian is the former editor lucinations, and delusions. With any to their Perinatal Behavioral Health having painful anxiety attacks that of two parenting magazines and the of these conditions, early detection Department,” she says. “There I was felt like someone was squeezing my mother of three children.

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 21 foods, and see distinctive architec- ture. Visit the city’s world-class museums, many of which offer cheap — or even free — admission. a meditation practice. The posi- Fight summer tive impact that mindfulness meditation has on adults’ health and well- being is extensively documented. But studies also show that meditation helps kids calm down, focus, and can even boost their test scores. learning loss! Concentration is a particularly important skill these days, as kids are By Dr. DeBorah antoine other sports. To learn about tennis increasingly bombarded with visual Five things anD rhea Wong opportunities for kids throughout stimulation from TV, videogames, New York City, visit www.nyjtl.org. and mobile devices. For meditation that NYC his season, most kids will ex- a book. Summer reading is a tried resources for children, visit www. perience the all-too-common and true way to combat learning loss. teachchildrenmeditation.com. T phenomenon known as “sum- One of the many benefits kids reap This summer, our two organiza- kids should mer learning loss.” from reading is a more robust vocabu- tions — New York Junior Tennis & The National Summer Learning lary, which is crucial for standardized Learning and Breakthrough New York pick up this Association reports that the major- tests. Visit www.btny.org/resources — are embarking on a new partner- ity of students lose two months of for recommended books and vocab ship. New York Junior Tennis & Learn- grade-level equivalency in math over apps. Additionally, parents should ing’s brand-new Cary Leeds Center for season the summer months, with low-in- read the same books and engage their Tennis & Learning in the Bronx’s Cro- come students also falling behind kids in conversation about the plot, tona Park will serve as the third site of two months in reading. Furthermore, characters, and themes. Breakthrough New York’s year-round most children gain weight more rap- a pen. Writing well is vital for academic enrichment program. idly during summer break. success in school, and it helps kids Kids participating in summer pro- To help prevent this seasonal become more analytical and expres- gramming at the Cary Leeds Center backsliding, we compiled a list of sive. The trick is to make it enjoy- will boost their brains and bodies, five things that New York City kids able. Some kids like keeping a jour- so that they’re ready for success in should pick up this summer: nal, but many do not. Writing and school come September. For those a racquet. Everyone knows ten- performing spoken word poetry and kids who aren’t participating in this nis is great exercise, but it is also music lyrics are effective ways to get kind of enrichment programming, proven to uniquely build kids’ cogni- kids excited about expressing them- picking up these five things is a great tive abilities, academic performance, selves through words. way to turn learning loss into sum- and character. According to a United a MetroCard. On weekends, visit mer gain. States Tennis Association study, different parts of New York City. Ex- Dr. Deborah Antoine is president and children who play tennis get better pand your child’s worldview by em- chief executive officer of New York Ju- grades, have fewer behavioral prob- barking on outings to new neighbor- nior Tennis and Learning. Rhea Wong lems, and are more likely to aspire to hoods to experience diverse cultures, is executive director of Breakthrough attend college than those who play hear different languages, taste ethnic New York.

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August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 23 ADVICE How citizenship can affect an estate plan I am a United States citizen, but my spouse is not. Are there special requirements we need to incorporate in our ASK AN estate plan or last will and testaments? ost definitely yes. Part of ATTORNEY a married couple’s estate ALISON ARDEN BESUNDER, M plan may include utilizing ESQ. what is called marital deduction in the estate of the first spouse to die — in order to avoid paying any estate taxes until after both spouses are deceased. This is particularly true if each or either spouse has a gross estate more than the estate tax threshold, currently at $5.43 million for federal taxes and $3,125,000 in New York (for 2015). This exemption is only permitted when the surviving spouse is a U.S. citizen. When a surviving spouse is not a U.S. citizen, the estate tax for assets exceeding the estate tax exemption would ordinarily be due. Perhaps recognizing the inherent problem in depriving the surviving spouse from the use of assets to support herself during her lifetime, the IRS allows non-citizen spouses to choose to put but does exceed the New York State is currently residing in the U.S. with assets in excess of the exemption limit, there is no need to set up a no intention of leaving. Or, stated an- into a special type of trust, called a Qualified Domestic Trust in order to other way, if the evidence indicates Qualified Domestic Trust. This al- take advantage of the marital deduc- that the U.S. is the place to which lows the surviving spouse to enjoy tion provisions. the person intends to return when the benefit of the marital deduc- Another key point to be mindful of they are away. tion, while giving comfort to the IRS is that U.S. domiciliaries (even if they The prudent ex-pat will enlist the that the government will receive the are non-U.S. citizens), remain subject services of an accountant and at- taxes due on the death of the sec- to U.S. gift and estate tax on their torney to ensure that they are posi- ond spouse (rather than have the worldwide assets. Non-domiciliaries tioned in the most efficient manner surviving spouse “abscond” to the are only subject to the U.S. transfer both for income and estate taxes. A home country and deprive the U.S. tax system only to the extent of their U.S. will, with or without a Qualified government of the tax on the remain- U.S. property. Many international cli- Domestic Trust, can be a crucial part ing assets). ents think they are “safe” if they of ensuring efficient disposition of In light of the increase in the al- don’t declare the assets. This is a assets in the most tax-efficient man- lowable exemption, fewer non-U.S. mistake, as the IRS could charge in- ner possible. citizen couples find themselves in a terest and penalties and also lien the situation that would require a Quali- assets located in the U.S. Guardianship fied Domestic Trust to preserve Although “domicile” is a very fact- In addition, there are important assets after the death of the first intensive inquiry and analysis, that considerations for ex-pats who have spouse. very much depends on the circum- children during their residence in the In addition if your estate does stances, a foreign national is con- U.S. There are two circumstances not quite reach the federal limit, sidered “domiciled” in the U.S. if he to consider: what would happen to

Disclaimer: This column is provided by Arden Besunder P.C. and New York Parenting Media as a public service to inform readers of legal issues. It is not intended to advise. Since legal issues vary with an individual’s situation and needs, one should consult with an attorney. It is impossible to cover all aspects of the law in an article. Please be advised that the laws are constantly changing. The content in this article reflects the current law. Nothing contained in this article is intended as advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and the firm. Individual consultation with an attorney is required to determine the specific facts and circumstances of any particular situation. A written retainer agreement between you and the firm is required before any attorney-client relationship may be created. Circular 230 Disclosure Notice: To ensure compliance with Treasury Department rules governing tax practice, we inform you that any advice contained herein (including in any attachment) (1) was not written and is not intended to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty that may be imposed on the taxpayer, and (2) may not be used in connection with promoting, marketing or recommending to another person any transaction or matter addressed herein. 24 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 the care and raising of minor chil- and have legal custody. Second, for dren if both parents were to die, the many ex-patriates living in New but also if both parents become York City, it means that extra care disabled while the child(ren) are must be taken to communicate to Brooklyn Arts Exchange minors? Frequently, the choice of the court why the appointment 25 Years of Teaching & Learning guardian by a non-U.S. citizen in of a non-domiciliary individual as his Will is a family member who guardian is in the best interest of 421 Fifth Avenue, Park Slope, Brooklyn | 718.832.0018 lives in the home country and is your minor children. These specif- not a U.S. citizen. In that case, a ics can be spelled out in the will Fall Classes Start designation of stand-by guardian itself or in a separate writing that is crucial to help bridge the gap be- should be properly executed. September 16th tween the time that the parent(s) The other thing to consider is are incapacitated or have died, up that many non-U.S. citizen parents DANCE, MOVEMENT, THEATER & TUMBLING CLASSES until a court has made a determi- reside in the U.S. with no real inten- for children ages 12 months to 18 years at a nationally nation of a permanent guardian. tion to leave, but are insistent that acclaimed youth arts education center. The U.S. will also helps determine their children be raised in their Register before August 14, use coupon code FALLBAX5 the guardianship of your children home country. The thing they fail when you register for Fall Classes and receive a 5% discount. upon death of both spouses, rather to consider is that a child who is than leaving it up to the full discre- raised in the U.S. his entire life may VIEW CLASS SCHEDULES AT YOUTH.BAX.ORG/CLASSES tion of the U.S. court. not want to leave the U.S. when Financial Aid Available The procedure to name a guard- he is 10, 14, 15, and his entire life ian for minor children is to nomi- is based here. It is a very differ- nate an individual or individuals ent situation when the child is an in your will to take legal custody of infant or toddler and could easily your child. This can but does not adjust. If a parent wants the child OPEN need to be the same individual(s) to be repatriated to the home coun- as the “minor’s trustee,” who will try, the child’s citizenship may be HOUSE oversee the management of any a factor bearing on the judge’s Saturday, finances left to the minor child. decision. If the parent applied for A guardian nomination is just or obtained dual-citizenship from SEPTEMBER 12 that: a suggestion to the court her home country for the child, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm that, in most cases, will be up- this may be deemed evidence by held if the individual qualifies as the judge of the parents’ intent for For more information, visit a fiduciary, meaning a person in their child to keep a connection a position of trust. In New York a to the parents’ country of origin. person is not eligible to be a fidu- It has the added impact of provid- ciary if he is a “non-domiciliary ing a basis for which the guardian alien […] except [….] one who in the home country can request HAPPINESS shall serve with one or more co- assistance from her own state de- fiduciaries, at least one of whom partment or diplomatic agency to is resident in this state.” That said, repatriate the child. In the absence Is A Healthy Mouth the court may still appoint a non- of dual citizenship, the home coun- Help Your Child Start The School Year domiciliary alien or a New York try’s state department lacks stand- With A Healthy Smile. resident as a fiduciary in his or ing to assist. This, together with Healthy Smile... Healthy Children her discretion. An individual who basic border-control issues, poses is mentally incompetent, a felon, an obstruction to relocating a child or who otherwise “does not pos- to another country either tempo- sess the qualifications required of rarily pending the proceeding or a fiduciary by reason of substance permanently. abuse, dishonesty, improvidence, Because estate tax laws con- want of understanding, or who is stantly change, it is important to otherwise unfit for the execution revisit your estate plan as set up in of the office” is also unfit to serve your last will and testament over as a fiduciary, as is anyone else time. If either or both of you are who is ineligible in the court’s not U.S. citizens, it is important to Dentistry For Children discretion. The court may also de- discuss with your estate planning clare as ineligible to act as a fidu- attorney the possibility of includ- Your Child’s Teeth Are Too Precious To Waste ciary “a person unable to read and ing a Qualified Domestic Trust in A Proper Diet, Good Oral Hygiene write the English language.” your wills. What does this mean? For in- Alison Arden Besunder is the found- And A Bi-Annual Check-Up From Age 1 ternational clients, it means that ing attorney of the law firm of Arden CanSave Teeth And Money while they should nominate the Besunder P.C., where she assists new guardian of their choice based on and not-so-new parents with their Call Reneida E. Reyes, D.D.S., M.P.H. Today substance (i.e., their true qualifica- estate planning needs. Her firm as- at her ofﬁ ce for your son or daughter’s appointments tions in substance to provide the sists clients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, best care for their children), the Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties. One Hanson Place - Suite 706 choice is a mere nomination and You can find Alison Besunder on Twit- Brooklyn, NY 11243 is subject to the judge’s approval ter @estatetrustplan and on her web- and order of who will raise a child site at www.besunderlaw.com. (718) 230-0380 Fax (718) 230-0358

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 25 Don’t Let Your Child Fall Behind Fall 2015 School Guide You Have A Pal Directory

To Give Your Child AltSchool, Brooklyn Brooklyn Free School Heights 372 Clinton Avenue A Headstart 84 Montague St. or brooklyn@ 718-499-2707 or www. altschool.com or www.altschool. brooklynfreeschool.org Preschool Program & Universal Pre-K com/brooklynheights Brooklyn Free School (BFS) is a K-12, Ages 2-5 AltSchool believes every child should independent, non-profit school, have access to an exceptional, per- now in its ninth year, which places • Full Day 8am-6pm • Educational Trips sonalized education that enables him a strong emphasis on the personal development as well as the academic • Certified Teachers • Social Service Staff or her to be happy and successful in an ever-changing world. Inspired by development of each student. With • Healthy Meals & • Safe Indoor/ Montessori and Reggio approaches, an emphasis on play, exploration, con- Snacks Outdoor Facilities AltSchool educators engage each structivist teaching and collaborative child’s passions, skills, and learning learning, BFS, guided by democratic • Services For • Parent Committees/ styles to create a personalized learn- principles, empowers every student Special Needs Workshops ing experience that fosters both aca- with the responsibility to make impor- demic and social-emotional growth. tant decisions about how their school is run and the learning activities they PAL A&M Schwartz PAL Carey Gardens PAL World Of Creative Exp. Combining project-based learning, rig- will pursue throughout their time 452 Pennsylvania Ave. 2964 W. 23rd Street 280 Livonia Ave. orous academics, frequent field trips, Brooklyn, NY 11207 Brooklyn, NY 11224 Brooklyn, NY 11212 and diverse co-curricular, AltSchool at the school. Students also learn 718-342-4141 718-372-4044 718-345-5219 prepares students to be well-rounded, through hands on activities the impor- 21st century citizens of the world. We tance of working to support their PAL Woodside Early Learning Center PAL La Puerta Albierta encourage students to understand school and greater community. 50-37 Broadway 2864 W. 21st Street themselves, develop growth-mindsets, Woodside, NY 11377 Brooklyn, NY 11224 seek and solve problems, and respect Brooklyn Friends School 718-278-3616 718 -373-1100 others and the environment. AltSchool 375 Pearl Street, offers multi-age classrooms with low 718-852-1029 or www. student to teacher ratios. AltSchool brooklynfriends.org Please Call For InFo Brooklyn Heights is part of the grow- www.palnyc.org ing AltSchool network of schools that BFS is a vibrant, thriving community use technology to empower teachers of learners who are actively engaged to focus on what they do best: teach. in intellectual growth and participation in the arts and athletics. Founded Accepting applications for Pre-K to 5th in 1867, Brooklyn Friends provides a grade for 2016-2017 as well as limited college preparatory program serving transfer spots for 2015-2016. Please students from Preschool - Grade 12. Mo contact us at [email protected] od n It is committed to educating each o te for more information or sign up for an student intellectually, aesthetically, w ss upcoming information session. physically, and spiritually in a cultur- d o ally diverse community. Guided by the i r Bambi Day Care Centers Quaker principles of truth, simplicity i Located in Bedford-Stuyvesant and and peaceful resolution of conflict, M Crown Heights. Brooklyn Friends School offers each 300 Rogers Avenue student a challenging education that 138 Hancock Street develops intellectual abilities and 718-771-1603 or BambiCare@gmail. ethical and social values to support com a productive life of leadership and For over 30 years, we have provided service. BFS offers the International an exceptional early educational expe- Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program rience for the children of Brooklyn. for high school juniors and seniors. Our curriculum is child-focused and balanced, creating a nurturing envi- Brooklyn Heights ronment for academic and general Montessori School developmental skills through play. 185 Court St, Brooklyn Teachers focus on growth in literacy, 718-858-5100 or www.bhmsny.org reading comprehension, writing skills, At BHMS students ages 2-14 learn in math concepts, natural science, eco- three-year mixed age groups develop- awareness, cultural diversity aware- Pre-School & Kindergarten ing collaboration and leadership skills, ness as well as physical development compassion, and mastery of the aca- through dance, musical-movement Summer Program demic subjects. and in our indoor/outdoor play areas. Transportation Available We celebrate the uniqueness of each BHMS engages students in a challeng- child and foster strong self-esteem ing and meaningful curriculum that 2825 Bedford Avenue • 253-3242 and creativity. Our schools offer enroll- inspires independence, confidence, ment for 2-5 year olds and provide full curiosity, leadership and collabora- at Glenwood Road day sessions, early drop-off, meals, a tion. Offering a global curriculum that foreign language program and sum- includes language arts, social sciences, www.midwoodmontesssori.com mer camp. For more information, mathematics, science, Spanish, tech- please call 718.771.1603 or email us at nology, athletics, and the arts. [email protected]. Continued on page 28 26 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 Special Advertising Section Preparing students for the Register future through personalized NOW! learning experiences within micro-school communities Accepting Children 2-5 years • Full Day Sessions • Free Universal Pre-K – Children Born 2011 • Creative Theme Based Teaching • Early Drop-oﬀ / Extended Day • Foreign Language Program • Nutritious Balanced Meals • Summer Camp For over 30 years we have provided an exceptional early educational experience. Our curriculum is child-focused and balanced, creating a nurturing environment for children to exceed academically as well as emotionally, socially and physically through purposeful play. We celebrate the uniqueness of each child to foster strong self-esteem and creativity. Accepting applications for Crown Heights Bedford-Stuyvesant Pre-K to 5th Grade 300 Rogers Avenue 138 Hancock Street for the 2016-2017 school year Brooklyn, NY 11225 Brooklyn, NY 11216 at our Brooklyn Heights school 718.771.1603 718.230.3487 AltSchool.com/BrooklynHeights www.BambiDCC.com • [email protected]

185 COURT STREET TWOS / PRESCHOOL / ELEMENTARY / MIDDLE SCHOOL BROOKLYN, NY 11201 718-858-5100 PREPARING STUDENTS WITH THE CRITICAL THINKING bhmsny.org & PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS ESSENTIAL FOR SUCCESS IN OUR RAPIDLY CHANGING WORLD. BHMS inspires independence & collaboration, conﬁdence, curiosity & leadership in students with Brooklyn Heights an academically challenging & meaningful curriculum. Montessori School CALL OUR ADMISSIONS OFFICE TO SCHEDULE A TOUR AT 718-858-5100 has an institutional commitment to the principles of diversity. AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM & SUMMER CAMP OPTIONS

Accredited by AVAILABLE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! NYSAIS & AMS. VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT BHMSNY.ORG

Special Advertising Section August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 27 We’re learning step-by-step at...... :H¶UHOHDUQLQJVWHSE\VWHSDW«« Fall 2015 School Guide Directory

Continued from page 26 Our curriculum emerges from the chil- Our students thrive in an environment dren’s interests, ideas and experiences. that supports individual learning styles Children have a strong disposition to and the freedom to learn at their own explore and discover and are encour- SchoolSchool ProgramsPrograms pace. BHMS nurtures each child to aged to become active participants encourage compassion, respect, and in learning. An emergent curriculum Two Year Old Program •r 2-Year Old Toddler Tykes Class independence of thought. builds on natural curiosity, enabling • Three Year Old Program A recent expansion added 11,000 children to interact, question, con- r 3-Year Old Little Learners Class square feet to the existing campus, nect, problem solve, communicate and • Four Year Old Program including a new library, learning reflect. r 4-Year Old Preschool Pals Class kitchen, a new Middle School suite We are an inclusive community and with a math and science lab, larger are committed to maximizing the After School outdoor terraces, and a state-of-the- potential and participation of all types After School Please art performance space. of learners in our classrooms. We Programs Brooklyn Heights Montessori School believe individual differences between Programs is accredited by NYSAIS and the students and families are a source of th KindergartenKindergarten through through 5th 5 gradegrade call American Montessori Society and a richness and diversity. member of the National Association of for more Independent Schools. CBE KIDS Tots on the FullFull And Half Half Da yDay Move Brooklyn Pre-School of ProgramsPrograms Av Availableailable 8th Avenue and Garfield Place, information Science 718-499-6208 or www. School Session: September – June congregationbethelohim.org School Session: September–June 11 Wyckoff Street 347-844-9699 or www. Congregation Beth Elohim Early Childhood Center offers a series 245 86th Street Brooklyn, NY | 718-630-1000 | steppingstones86.com brooklynpreschoolofscience.com Accepting: Two’s, Three’s and Four’s of innovative programs specifically [email protected] designed for you and your young Carmelo the Science Fellow has been child. These classes have three goals: credit cards not accepted teaching children in Brooklyn for the to provide children and their adults for past 17 years. During this time, he has an opportunity for social interaction, educated thousands of children and to create an atmosphere which fosters he has come to realize the importance close adult-child bonding, and to give and effectiveness of introducing a sci- young children a sense of indepen- ence based curriculum to his students. dence and self-confidence through Young children starting preschool the development of new skills. Terrific bring a sense of wonder and curiosity Twos, Art for Tots and Keshetot begin- about the world. Whether they are ning October 2015. For more informa- handling gerbils, flying kites, melting tion please visit cbebk.org. ice cubes, or excavating for fossils, children are engaged in discover- ing out how the world works. The Charles R Drew Brooklyn Preschool of Science will Learning Centers brings this curiosity and wonder to 2804 Glenwood Road, Brooklyn, NY life, and uses it to provide a founda- 11210, 718-434-1693 tion for meaningful math, language, 165-15 Archer Avenue, Jamaica, NY and literacy development. 11433, 718-523-7600 109-45 207th Street, Queens CBE KIDS Early Village, NY 11429, 718-740-2400 Childhood Center Charles R. Drew Early Learning Center 274 Garfield Place has been serving the community since At Brooklyn Friends School, 718-499-6208 or www. 1971, providing early care and learning congregationbethelohim.org to children ages 2 to 5 years old. we have all the makings of The Congregation Beth Elohim Early Charles R. Drew has three centers Childhood Center is dedicated to located in Queens and Brooklyn, providing children aged 2 to 5 with New York. Our professionals believe great education. a learning environment that nur- that all children can learn and our tures their growth, curiosity and program provides a setting that An independent, Quaker school for self-esteem. Our lively, hands-on cur- acknowledges the wide range of preschool–grade 12 since 1867 riculum is developed through direct children’s abilities, needs and learn- observation of children’s interests and ing styles. Our education program 375 Pearl Street, Brooklyn NY 11201 individual needs. The traditions and is based on the Creative Curriculum, 718-852-1029 basic values of the Jewish culture are which is an award winning research- www.brooklynfriends.org integrated throughout to strengthen based curriculum with a long, rich our learning community. Established history. The Creative Curriculum New Upper School Building for Grades 9-12 in 1978, Congregation Beth Elohim’s features exploration and discovery as Opening in MetroTech in September 2015! Early Childhood Center is one of the a way of learning, enabling children most highly regarded preschools in to develop confidence, creativity and the New York Metropolitan area. Continued on page 30 28 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 Special Advertising Section Rivendell School provides a warm, creative environment where children develop independence, respect for each other, and a lifelong love of learning.

sSelf-directed student initiatives sNo mandatory homework or tests sCollaborative curriculum sInternship opportunities s$EEPCOMMITMENTTOPLAY s&OCUSONDIVERSITYANDSOCIALJUSTICE

A Montessori inclusion school Learn more about this unique Pre-K through High School program at our Open Houses or on out website: serving children two to six years old

for more than thirty years. Pre-K Information Session: 9/2 9 AM Open Houses: 10/21 6 PM & 11/18 6 PM 277 3rd Avenue (bet. Carroll & President Streets) brooklynfreeschool.org 718-499-5667 Brooklyn &ree School | 372 Clinton Ave, Brooklyn, NY | (718) 499 -2707 Prepare Your Children For The Future With Quality Education and Care

Offering FREE Universal PreK (UPK)

• Pre K – 8th Grade • Small Class Sizes • Individualized Attention • Foreign Language • After School Program • Computer Lab

PARKWAY SCHOOL One of Brooklyn’s premier private schools. 5566 Kings Highway, Brooklyn, NY 11203 Tel: 718-346-0369 Fax: 718-346-0371 www.parkwayschool.org

Special Advertising Section August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 29 Fall 2015 School Guide Directory

Continued from page 28 offers its students a safe and caring critical thinking skills. Our curriculum atmosphere. Please call 718-748-9023 is fully aligned with the Head Start or visit http://ledsny.org to find out Child Development, Early Learning more about this unique school that Framework and state early learning combines tradition values with a mod- standards. Contact us today to find ern world. your local center or to inquire about tuition and openings at one of our LePort Montessori centers. Cobble Hill Greene Hill School 292 Court Street, Brooklyn 718-340-3550 www.leportschools. 39 Adelphi Street com/bk 718-230-3608 or www. greenehillschool.org LePort Montessori Preschool is opening their doors in Fall 2015 with Charles R. Drew Greene Hill School is an independent Early Learning Centers part-time and full-time Montessori lower and middle school with a sliding programs for infants, toddlers, and scale tuition. At Greene Hill, children *Free Full-Day UPK *Early Learn: ACS *Private Fee Paying Childcare preschool. We also offer a Spanish are actively engaged in their world Immersion option for toddler and pre- *SEIT *Self-Contained Classroom *Integrated Classrooms through critical thinking and open- school. At LePort, children are guided ended investigations; teachers provide Charles R. Drew Early Learning Center has 44 years of experience in providing preschool education. at every stage of development to expertise and consistent, thoughtful gain the essential knowledge, think- Our agency is staffed by well-trained, NYS certied teachers. We rmly believe that all children guidance; parents are important con- ing skills, and strength of character can be successful if given the proper pre-academic foundation and parental support. We have a tributors to the school environment, necessary to flourish as joyous children strong commitment to working with children and families. Attendance at our program is the rst and the local community is a natural today, and as successful adults tomor- step towards getting college and career ready. www.charlesrdrewforsuccess.org extension of the GHS classroom. Tours row. Visit our website to learn more for families of children from Pre-K and to sign-up on our interest list through 8th grade will commence 165-15 Archer Avenue 109-45 207th Street 2804 Glenwood Road so you can be notified of upcoming in October 2015. For more informa- Jamaica, NY 11433 Queens Village, NY 11429 Brooklyn, NY 11210 admissions events, tours, and parent tion please visit our website www. (718) 523-7600 (718) 740-2400 (718) 434-1693 education seminars. greenehillschool.org. Email admis- [email protected] with any questions. Little Sun People, Inc. 4 Convenient 1360 Fulton Street Just Wee Two 718-789-7330 or www. Brooklyn Locations: littlesunpeople.com With locations in Brooklyn Heights Prospect Heights, and Park Slope, 800-404-2204 or Little Sun People, Inc. is a unique Sunset Park, www.justweetwo.com community childcare service founded Borough Park, Just Wee Two offers a very special in 1980 by Fela Barclift, an African Coney Island time for children to enjoy pre-nursery American mother of four and lifetime school activities with the security of resident or the colorful community of knowing Mommy (or another care- Bedford-Stuyvesant. giver) is there. A great preparation for Little Sun People, centrally located in pre-school, the Mother & Child pro- the Bedford-Stuyvesant community, gram is available for children as young has been especially designed to foster as 14 months. Partial separation and the development of the younger child. separation classes are also available. Something that sets them apart, how- The school has a pre-nursery program, ever, is that at Little Sun People, they arts & crafts, music, play, stories, made the decision from inception that snack and creative movement. attention and responsiveness to the heritages and cultures of all people Leif Ericson Day School would be a very important part of 1037 72nd Street how they would frame the preschool 718-748-9023 or www.ledsny.org curriculum. Leif Ericson Day School, a private They have made it their special mission Christian elementary and middle to highlight the long, wondrous his- school located in Dyker Heights, cel- tory, as well as illustrious and diverse ebrating over 48th year of academic ways of life of all people of color on excellence for students in pre-school the planet, with a particular emphasis through grade 8. The pre-school class, on people of African ancestry. a combined 3- & 4-year old program, where communication skills, motor Magic Moments skills, cognitive skills, and person/social skills are a part of the curriculum, also Academy includes, English language arts, sci- 1078 Fulton Street ence, math, social studies, Christian 347-464-5544 or info@ studies, music, and computers. With a magicmomentsacademy.com or small class size, a teacher and an assis- www.magicmomentsacademy.com tant, this unique learning environment Continued on page 32 30 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 Special Advertising Section Introducing half day and full day classes for two year olds

WINDMILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL Accredited Preschool, Elementary, JHS & Academic Summer Camp A PEACEFUL PLACE TO LEARN SINCE 1941 Proudly Celebrating 73 Years of Quality Education Windmill’s environment encourages children to • Learn Naturally At Their Own Pace • Find And Develop Their Own Interests, And Open • Get The Individual Attention Needed To Thrive HOuses CURRICULUM ADVANTAGES Thurs, Sept. 17 Thurs, Oct. 1 Montessori Method, French, Computer Skills, 9–10:30 am We invite you to learn more about our emergent Physical Education, Yoga, Music, Art play based program PLUS MORE Click here to schedule a tour. Small Class Size, Dedicated Staff, Outdoor Recreation, A/C Classrooms, Curriculum-based Trips, Accepting applications for the 2016/17 school year After School Program (3:40–5:45pm) beginning November 4th, 2015 Happy Learners and Happy Campers 718-375-7973 H 718-375-4277 Learn more and visit us at: e-mail: [email protected] CongregationBethElohim.Org website: www.windmontsch.org 274 Garfield Place at 8th Ave. | 718.499.6208 Windmill is non-sectarian. Licensed by The New York City Department of Health Affiliated with The American Montessori Society All faiths and backgrounds welcome 1317 Avenue T @ East 14th Street • Brooklyn, NY 11229

Give Your Child an Early Learn Pre-School Experience Here at Urban Strategies Early Learn I and III Enrollment is going on for 3 to 4-year old children. We offer head start, child care, dual and universal pre-k services.

We educate with excellence. We promote innovation and culturally sensitive learning experience with total parental involvement in our program. We have well qualiﬁ ed, experienced and nurturing staff and highly skilled therapists who work with special needs children. Our staff speaks English, Spanish and Bengali. We also offer Computer Education, Music and Movement and Martial Arts. How to Enroll: Visit us Monday to Friday from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm. Your child will need a complete medical and dental examination before enrollment. We also accept ACS and HRA eligible children. Presently, we give priority to children who belong to low income families, dental, hearing and vision screening during the year. Our Friendly Staff Will Welcome You!! URBAN STRATEGIES EARLY LEARN *NYC DOHMH Licensed Provider* 1091 Sutter Avenue (at Atkins Ave.) • 1084 Elton Street (at Flatlands Ave.) Brooklyn, NY 11208/11239 Tel. # 718-235-6151/718-348-9349 [email protected] • [email protected]

Special Advertising Section August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 31 Fall 2015 School Guide Directory

Continued from page 30 Center, 50-37 Broadway Magic Moments Academy is a 718-342-4725 or www.palnyc.org brand new Child Care and Early Offers full day sessions. Some sites Learning center in the Heart of Bed- have Universal Pre-K programs as well Stuy expecting to open its doors in as inclusion classes. Hot meals are September, 2015. Magic Moments provided. PAL Headstart is a leader Academy is proud to offer a conve- in early literacy; children learn all nient, yet distinctive child care and subject areas in a nurturing environ- early childhood education solution ment. PAL not only educates children, to the families of Bedford-Stuyvesant but provides a wide array of parent and neighboring areas. Our dedicated workshops. Special programs in the directors and staff have years of child arts and sciences include field trips. care experience in the community All programs are free. Contact Asneth and are excited to welcome this latest Council, Director. location! Magic Moments Academy provides a safe and nurturing environment, with a creative emphasis on Parkway School the fundamentals of early childhood 5566 Kings Highway development and integrated educa- 718-346-0369 or www. tional components. parkwayschool.org Parkway School is a private not for Our newly renovated space is conve- profit institution that is dedicated to niently located on Fulton Street and academic excellence. Educating stu- steps away from the Franklin Ave. dents from pre-kindergarten through subway station. We look forward to eight grade. Learning is the epicenter serving our Bed-Stuy community in of activities at Parkway. Our students our new space. engage in stimulating curriculum, Now enrolling for Infant /Toddler Care, which encourages intellectual curios- 2’s & 3’s Preschool and 4’s Pre-K. ity and critical thinking. By giving our students the ability to critically and Midwood Montessori objectivity analyze, we can be confident that they will seek to change 2825 Bedford Avenue at Glenwood what they conclude needs changing Road and to defend and strengthen that 718-253-3242 or www. which is worth preserving. Academics midwoodmontessori.com and critical thinking skills are not the We are situated in a charming Tudor only lessons learn at Parkway. “Children’s House.” The school provides a rich curriculum tailored Parkway school has an excellent after to each child’s pace. Children served school program in our Custodial Care are ages 2.9 to 6 in pre-school and which runs from 3-6 p.m., the children kindergarten. Special attention is are supervised until they are picked given to encouraging socialization, up. Generally, they do their home- while the academics are taught on a work or play educational games with where children and grown-ups learn and play together one-on-one basis by a dedicated and other children. In our tutorial program nurturing staff using the Montessori which runs from 3:15 – 4:15 p.m. hands-on methods. The school offers children are tutored in specific subject For 8 months – 3½ years full time art and music teachers, three areas depending on their individual needs. Children do not have to be outdoor play areas, an indoor gym, enrolled at Parkway School to partici- manipulatives, cultural studies, practi- pate in programs. Children may be Register Now for Summer & Fall! cal life and sensorial materials, lan- enrolled in a combined Custodial and guage arts, math, science, and geog- BrOOkLyN HeiGHTS LOCaTiON Park SLOPe LOCaTiON Tutorial Program. Our Lady of Lebanon Church Park Slope Jewish Center raphy. AM, PM and full day sessions, summer camp, early drop off, and 111 Remsen Street (off Henry) 8th Avenue & 14th Street transportation service are available. Rivendell School 277 3RD Avenue; Bet Carroll & Join Us For Fun Police Athletic League, President Street We Offer 718-499-5667, ext. 14 or www. • Arts & Crafts Inc. Headstart/ • Music • Stories Parent/Child Classes rivendellnyc.org • Creative Movement Collaboration Programs A Montessori pre-primary inclusion • Playtime “Just For Me” Locations include: school was founded in 1977 as The • Narrow Age Spans • Maximum 10 Children Per Class Separation & Partial Separation Classes PAL W.O.C.E. 280 Livonia Avenue; Children’s House of Park Slope and incorporated into Rivendell School in • 1½ Hour Classes Wee Step Up – Pre-Nursery Program PAL Carey Gardens, 2964 W 23rd St. • Professional Staff PAL La Puerta Abierta, 3001 West 1998. Rivendell provides a respectful, 37th St. inclusive community that helps chil- Infant Classes and ABC Enrichment Classes also available PAL Schwartz, 452 Pennsylvania dren feel powerful and confident as For information call 1-800-404-2204 or 516-433-0003 Avenue, learners and as social and emotional Or log onto our website: www.justweetwo.com PAL Western Queens, 10-26 41st beings. Other Locations: Bayside, Plainview, Manhasset, Greenwich, & North Stamford, CT Avenue; Toddler, half day and extended day PAL Woodside Early Learning Continued on page 34 32 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 Special Advertising Section Leif Ericson Day School SUCCESS WITHOUT STRESS Small Class Size Graduates to finest high Nursery-Grade 8 schools Computer Technology Lab Spiritual Formation Professional, Caring Staff Academic Excellence NYC DOE Services Community Chapel & Assemblies RegistrationRe gistr Dynamic Music Program SeptemberS ati 9th epte on NYS Learning Standards mb Children ageser 99tht 20-28 months h Child accompanied by adult OpEn Call today to learn more about HOUSE Leif Ericson Day School’s 49 year Wednesday, history of quality education in LEARN MORE AND VISIT US AT January 21st a safe, caring environment www.congregationbethelohim.org 7-8:30 pm (718) 748-9023 | 1037—72nd Street 274 GARFIELD PLACE AT EIGHT AVE. Brooklyn NY 11228 • http://ledsny.org (718) 499-6208

Little Sun AN INDEPENDENT PROGRESSIVE AN INDEPENDENT PROGRESSIVE LOWER AND MIDDLE SCHOOL IN LOWER AND MIDDLE SCHOOL IN FORT GREENE, BROOKLYN FORT GREENE, BROOKLYN PEOPLE Information about curriculum, admissions and Information about curriculum, admissions and sliding scale tuition are available on our website sliding scale tuition are available on our website www.greenehillschool.org www.greenehillschool.org AN INDEPENDENT PROGRESSIVE 39 Adelphi Street, Brooklyn, NY 11205 AN INDEPENDENT PROGRESSIVELOWER AND MIDDLE SCHOOL IN 718.230.3608 [email protected] LOWER39 Adelphi AND Street, MIDDLE Brooklyn, SCHOOLFORT NY 11205 GREENE, IN BROOKLYN Now Registering For 718.230.3608FORT GREENE, admissions @BROOKLYNgreenehillschool.org Information about curriculum, admissions and Fall 2015 Information about curriculum,sliding admissionsscale tuition andare available on our website sliding scale tuition are availablewww.greenehillschool.org on our website www.greenehillschool.org 39 Adelphi Street, Brooklyn, NY 11205 718.230.3608 [email protected] 1360 Fulton St., Brooklyn, NY 11216 39 Adelphi Street, Brooklyn, NY 11205 littlesunpeople.com Tel: 718-789-7330 • Fax: 718-789-3181 718.230.3608 [email protected] [email protected]

Special Advertising Section August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 33 OpEning FALL 2015! Quality Child Care and Early Learning Fall 2015 School Guide in the Heart of Bed-Stuy Directory Programs offered: Continued from page 32 Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) Infant / Toddler Care programs are available (two through Programs are offered at our Sunset 2’s & 3’s Preschool six years). Park, Borough Park and Coney Island and 4’s Pre-K Rivendell School offers beautiful Locations. We designed the classrooms to accommodate our UPK Contact us for Montessori classrooms, an excellent student/teacher ratio, and a warm, program. This enriched program offers registration information quality education for children who and upcoming tours cooperative atmosphere where children learn to work and play. Shelly are at the age of four/born in the year [email protected] Wolf Scott is the Admissions coordina- 2011. Please contact us for details at 1078 Fulton Street tor. any of our locations. 347-464-5544 Stepping Stones Urban Strategies Early MagicMomentsAcademy.com Nursery School Learn 245 86th Street 1091 Sutter Avenue/1152 Elton 718-630-1000 or www. Street EXPLORE CREATE LEARN GROW steppingstones86.com 718-348-9349/718-348-9349 We believe in engaging every child For nearly three decades, Urban in small and large muscle activities, Strategies preschool programs have sensory and discovery exploration, been working with children and their social interaction and creative expres- families to prepare them for the transi- sion with an educational curriculum. tion into kindergarten. By the time Classes for two, three and four year our students enter elementary school, olds are offered with a choice of full- they are well developed academi- or half-day programs. They are open cally, socially and physically to meet 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. An After-school the challenges in their new learning Program is available for Pre-K-5th environment. Our caring staff is also grade with free pick-up service from diligent in their work to encourage PS 185 and DGK Holy Cross. parents to become active in making decisions concerning their children’s education. Additionally, we partner Sunny Skies Preschool with the Committee of Pre-School Multiple Locations Education to provide a quality learn- Sunset Park ing experience for our students with 4228-10th Ave, 718-372-4665 x 420 special needs. Private/Independent Coney Island / Sheepshead Bay / Our students are also given free nutri- Gravesend / Midwood tious meals: breakfast, lunch and Private/Independent 2585 Coney Island Ave, 718-372- snack. USEL is licensed by the DOH School Guide 4665 x 320 and Mental Hygiene and funded by Borough Park the federal government through the Private/IndependentSchool Guide 4301-10th Ave. 718-372-4665 x 419 City of New York. Prospect Heights Private/Independent 720 Washington Ave. 718-372-4665 Windmill Montessori School Guide x 200 At sunny Skies Preschool, our mission School School Guide is to provide the families we serve 1317 Avenue T with a program that fulfills the educa- 718-375-7973 or 718-375-4277 or tional, emotional and social needs of www.windmillmontessorischool. their children in a fun, loving and safe org environment. The children thrive in For over 70 years, has been a peaceful the curriculum especially designed by place to learn, with an environment Sunny Skies Preschool. that encourages your child to prog- Our four locations are all large and ress at his/her own pace. The family- vibrant facilities and are staffed by oriented Montessori method nurtures highly qualified teachers and assistant students in grades Pre-k to 8th, emo- teachers encourage learning at every tionally and academically, promoting moment throughout the day. Each a sense of purpose, a love of learning moment is a teachable moment. and civility. Our STEAM room provides an oppor- Small classes meet the students’ tunity for children to explore and individual needs. Curriculum-based learn through Science, Technology, trips, from puppet shows to muse- Engineering, Arts and Math. We have ums, culminate in JHS overnights incorporated computers, Samsung “Learning About History By Living tablets, SmartBoard, a variety of chil- It,” with trips to Boston, Gettysburg dren’s books, and cookware. With and Williamsburg, VA; and “Meeting proper assistance from teachers, Our Lawmakers” in Albany and children are encouraged to share and Washington, D.C. French, yoga, phys. Check it out on NYParenting.com execute simple healthy recipes, such as ed., music, art, and computer skills milkshakes, fruit salads, etc. enliven the school day. 34 BROOKLYNCheck Fami it lyout • August on 2015 NYParenting.com Special Advertising Section Check it out on NYParenting.com Check it out on NYParenting.com EducationEducation Structuring your schooltime routine dear teacher, ule for your children that includes tertaining themselves — often with We start each new school year breakfast and departure times. tablets or mobile devices — or sim- Dear Teacher with the best intentions of getting our • Include in your routine time for ply misbehaving. Since the develop- Peggy gisler and kids out the door without too much brushing teeth and putting on out- ment of language in young children Marge eberts hassle and handling after-school ac- erwear. is strongly dependent on adult-child tivities, including homework. But the • U s e timers for dressing and eat- conversation, it only makes sense sad truth is that we slip up and throw ing. for cellphones to be put away when in the towel after a few weeks. What is • H av e a strategy for making adults are around children. the secret of making our family’s life school lunches or paying for them. go smoother this year? • U s e music as a transition to eat- choosing the ing or leaving home — different tunes perfect planners dear parent, for each activity. This can be pro- dear teacher, Perhaps the secret for your family grammed into an electronic device. The school wants our young chil- is not to do too much at first. Start • Eliminate all use of electronic dren in elementary school to use by choosing to structure either the media. planners. However, the teachers have morning or the after-school routine. • Po s t the routine in a prominent not made very specific recommenda- And select the routines that fit your spot. tions. What should I be looking for? family’s personality and are age-ap- • B e willing to change parts of the propriate for your children. Remem- routine that simply do not work. dear parent, ber that changing behaviors takes after-school routines The type of planners children time. Don’t give up too quickly. • Successful afternoon routines use depends upon their grade level. Morning routines will need to have some latitude, as The younger the child, the smaller • Successful morning routines activities do vary. You may need dif- the planner should be. They do start the night before. Clothes should ferent routines for different days. not need heavy, bulky planners. In be selected, baths taken, alarms set • Include a time for snack. Kids love early elementary school, a planner and backpacks laid by the door. them, and snack time is a great time to should have: • C r e a te a realistic morning sched- talk about what happened at school. • Pl e n t y of space to write down • C h o o s e a specific time for assignments, as younger children homework, dinner, and going usually have large handwriting. to bed. • A front and back pocket to bring • I n c l u d e a definite play work home from school and assign- time for fun each day, if pos- ments and forms to school. sible. • A spiral binding so papers will not fall out and be lost. talk, talk, talk Depending on a teacher’s require - to children ments, it can also be handy to have dear teacher, pages for logging the books a stu- All I see everywhere is par- dent has read and spelling words. ents either talking, texting, or As children advance to later grades, searching for messages on schools may provide planners or re- their cellphones in the pres- quire a specific planner. These plan- ence of their children. No one ners are usually larger and will offer seems to talk to children anymore options. A calendar is definitely more. How is this affecting necessary so the children can write children? down the dates when assignments and reports are due, as well as the dear parent, schedule of family events, extracur- There has been very lit- ricular activities and appointments. tle research on the effects of adults (parents and care- Parents should send questions and givers) being tied to their comments to dearteacher@dearteacher. phones in the presence of com or ask them on the columnists’ web- kids. One study noted that site at www.dearteacher.com. ©Com- children in fast-food restau- pass Syndicate Corporation, 2014. rants reacted either by en- Distributed by King Features Syndicate

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 35 HealtH

HealtHy living Danielle Sullivan

Teenage disease nobody’s heard of

ulia Swanson was a vivacious, active, concentrate, socialize, or do edness, heat intolerance, exercise smart, and fun-loving teen until, anything she would normally enjoy intolerance, insomnia, headaches, J quite abruptly, she wasn’t. One doing. gastric problems, chronic pain, and day, she felt dizzy, nauseous, and Every doctor she visited missed near-fainting or full fainting spells, her heart was racing before leaving the diagnosis. It wasn’t until her especially upon standing upright for school. Thinking she was coming mother, Elaine, took her to a psy- or walking. The symptoms are “se- down with the flu, she brushed it off. chiatrist to rule out any psychiatric vere enough to limit daily function- After a few days, the flu never set in conditions, but the doctor said he ing” says Dr. Blair Grubb, a leading but Julia kept having these symp- didn’t think she had any mental is- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia toms. Then she almost passed out in sues at all. In fact, she was reacting Syndrome specialist in the country. school after walking up the stairs. very normally for someone going Many compare the quality of life Doctor after doctor could not through such terrifying physical ex- to that of having congestive heart identify why a healthy teen was periences day in and day out. “She failure. experiencing such debilitating may have POTS,” he said. It was the There is no cure for it, but a symptoms. One said it was simple first time that Elaine had heard the variety of medications and life- tachycardia — an abnormally rapid term before. style modifications help alleviate heart rate — brought on by the Postural Orthostatic Tachycar- symptoms. The first primary ther- stress of school. Another said it dia Syndrome is a form of dys- apy is extra fluids and extra salt could be anxiety or panic disor- autonomia (when the autonomic to increase the blood volume, as der. Another said it was irritable nervous system malfunctions) that most people with suffer from hy- bowel syndrome. Yet another said affects a large portion of teens. povolemia, or low blood volume, it was a hormonal imbalance. The Symptoms may include heart pal- which increases their orthostatic last one said it was allergies. Julia pitations, extreme fatigue, brain intolerance. became unable to walk very far, be fog, nausea, headache, light-head- Postural Orthostatic Tachycar-

36 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 Resources for patients and their families: • Dysautonomia International: A wonderful website and Face- The most popular Tot Shabbot book page, provides vital information, lists top doctors nationally and helps identify doctors in your area; www.dysautonomiainter- programs in Park Slope! national.org. • D I N E T: A comprehensive website and organization aiming to spread awareness, doctor finder; www.dinet.org. May 1, 8, 15, and 29 • DY N A : Brochures can be printed to explain Postural Orthos- 4:00 p.m. to 5 p.m. Guitarist and singer Yoshie Fruchter will tatic Tachycardia Syndrome to family, friends, schools, etc. Fridays at have your preschooler singing and • www.dynainc.org dancing. Of course, we’ll welcome Shabbat • Standing Up To POTS: website with loads of information on liv- 4:00 with challah and grape juice, too! FREE. ing with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, treatments, research, and advocacy, including a letter to bring to each doctor, May 2, 9, and 16 titled “What Every Doctor Should Know About POTS.” 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. • POTSibilities Parents: Facebook group for parents of children Movement, music, and stories that with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome; invaluable infor- bring Jewish ideas about the world mation offered and vibrant community that helps each other. to life. Theme for May: Hellos and • Fa c e b o o k and Twitter: each has multiple groups and pages Goodbyes. For kids up to age 6. FREE. with vital information. dia Syndrome may be diagnosed disease, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Join our e-mail list and learn about all our activities: by doing a “poor man’s tilt test,” Chiari malformation, mast-cell ac- in which the heart rate increases tivation disorders, mitochondrial Call: 718-638-7600 of 30 or more beats per minute disease, and tumors. Still many Email: [email protected] (or a rate that exceeds 120 beats other causes exist. per minute) that occurs within Postural Orthostatic Tachycar- the first 10 minutes of standing. A dia Syndrome is not a rare dis- formal tilt table test or advanced ease, but it is not widely know UNION TEMPLE autonomic testing are typically either, even by many physicians. A Reform Jewish Congregation 17 Eastern Parkway performed for official diagnosis, The top hospitals in the country Brooklyn, NY 11238 although some doctors do not put in the research and treatment are www.uniontemple.org their patients through it and are Mayo Clinic, Vanderbilt Univer- able diagnosis clinically. Many sity Medical Center, and Cleve- patients become very dizzy, nau- land Clinic. Postural Orthostatic seous, and many pass out while Tachycardia Syndrome is treated Dentistry for Adults undergoing the test. usually by a cardiologist and a “To imagine POTS for yourself: neurologist combined, but a full and Children number one, fast for 24 hours; treatment team may also include number two, donate a pint of your a gastroenterologist, infectious Tracey H. Joseph, D.D.S., PLLC blood; number three, go home disease doctor, allergist, rheuma- and turn your thermostat up to tologist, geneticist, and of course, 'ENTLE &RIENDLYAND.UTURING#AREFOR9OUR&AMILY 100 degrees Fahrenheit; number a psychologist to help the patient four, stand motionless. Enjoy the learn to live with such a debilitat- symptoms,” says Dr. Jeffrey Boris, ing chronic condition. s3CHOOL&ORMS s7HITE&ILLINGS a pediatric cardiologist at Chil- Julia and her parents are still s%XTRACTIONS s3EALANTS dren’s Hospital of Philadelphia. visiting specialists and determin- The level of disability in pa- ing which treatments might work s&LEXIBLE0ARTIALS s.IGHTGUARDS tients varies, from those func- best, but are hopeful now she has s$ENTURES s)MPLANTS tioning with symptoms to those been finally diagnosed. rendered bedridden. Many teens, “At least we know what we are in the prime of the life, cannot dealing with now,” says Elaine. s4EETH7HITENING:OOM endure the simplest of things, “We are hopeful that new re- like attend school, hang out with search will bring better treat- s3PECIAL!TTENTION4O.ERVOUS!ND!PPREHENSIVE0EOPLE friends, or even go shopping, ments options and hopefully one s(OUR2OOT#ANAL4REATMENT without experiencing immediate day, a cure.” symptoms and possibly passing To learn more about Postural Ortho- New Ultramodern Facility Conveniently Located At out. The recovery period is often static Tachycardia Syndrome, watch &LATBUSH!VENUEs3UITE! a long and arduous one. When “The Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome” by Dr. Jeffrey Boris on Flat (Philip Howard Apartments) Digital Syndrome develops in adoles- YouTube. Screen TV Xrays & cence, 20 percent of teens make Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, 718-377-1319 Intraoral & Patient Camera a full recovery within 10 years. has worked as a writer and editor in Headset Recovery is typically dependent the parenting world for more than 10 WWWBROOKLYNFAMILYDDSCOMW on the underlying cause, although years. Sullivan also writes about pets WE SPEAK SPANISH in many cases, no identifiable and parenting for Disney’s Babble. -OST-AJOR)NSURANCES !CCEPTED cause is ever found. Some known com. Find Sullivan on her blogs, Just causes are viral infections, Lyme Write Mom and Some Puppy To Love.

AugustMonth 2015 •2015 BROOKLYN • XXXXX Fami Familyly 37 9 Advice The truth is, you’re an amazing parent

Behavior & Beyond Dr. Marcie Beigel

ive yourself a hand! For real, There are so many ways to find that being a parent is not about beat- stop what you’re doing right information, and in the parenting ing yourself up every time you hit a G now. Put this magazine down world, there are an overwhelming bump. for just a moment and give yourself a number of different techniques, The key is to recognize what you hand. Stand up tall and celebrate you tools, strategies, opinions, and per- did well and repeat the same action because you’re an amazing parent! spectives about what you’re doing again in the future. Being aware of You might be thinking, “What wrong and how you can do it bet- the choices you make and reflection does Dr. Marcie know about me?” ter. It can be a real challenge for a on what you did well or not is the Well, several things that you’re doing contemporary parent, because the key to being a great parent. After all, right now let me know that you’re a cacophony of voices constantly tells isn’t this what we teach our kids? great parent. you that you’re messing up To become really great at some- You are reading a parenting maga- In this moment, let’s focus on thing you need lots of practice. You’ll zine: This shows you’re interested in what you’re doing right! You’re tak- make mistakes and that is okay. It’s learning how to improve yourself, ing the time to read lots of views and about recognizing the mistakes and and that is an indication that you at opinions. You’re considering what learning from them, then trying your least know enough to be curious. experts say and then living your life! best the next time. You’re doing this! You are reading a column written At just the right moment, you’ll re- Keep it up! by a behavior therapist (me!). You’re call something you read somewhere, Keep learning, growing and ex- aware that all children and parents give it a try, and realize it was a great ploring new parenting ideas, theo- have behavior problems. It’s amaz- strategy. At other moments, you’ll ries and tools. Keep celebrating all ing that you’re proactive about this follow your own parenting instinct the good moments you have as a reality. that has guided you well time and parent, as that is the best way to be- You actually took the time to cel- time again. You will realize that you come an even greater parent! ebrate yourself (and if you haven’t do know what you are doing! Dr. Marcie Beigel is a behavioral yet, then do it now!). You recognize Are there moments when you’re therapist based in Brooklyn. She has that reinforcement is a good step to less than perfect as a parent? Of worked with thousands of families for keep humans happy. So you’re con- course, you’re human! Are there more than 15 years and has condensed sidering giving yourself some of the times when you wish you made a her observations into her practice and praise that you so heavily provide to different choice? Of course, you’re programs. For more on her, visit www. your children. human! Let’s remember, however, BehaviorAndBeyond.net.

38 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 The art of conversation By Thomas C. Daus to be taught which allow for Preschool greater social language expan- ave you ever won- sion. The areas of requesting kids are the dered how children (yes or no questions, “who,” H develop the ability to “what,” “where,” “when,” and perfect age introduce, maintain, and also “why” questions), action re- close a topic of conversation? quests (i.e. give me), descrip- Well, there is a great deal of tion identifications (i.e. that’s to learn the learning that goes into our my ball), responses (that’s young children’s minds within not a dog), conversational social aspect the arena of social communi- devices such as politeness cation. Pragmatics is the term markers (i.e. please, thanks), of language used to describe the social and also communication func- aspect of language, and how tions (i.e. the protesting of ob- we “use” our chosen words jects — “don’t touch the car”) with others. Although it is es- are all appropriate teachings. sential for parents to continu- It is exciting to learn the ously work on enhancing a pragmatic aspects of our lan- young child’s understanding guage. The more we teach our and verbal expression, pragmatic ward. Pragmatic skills are learned children pragmatics, the more we development can be considered the at a very early age, and it is carried increase the likelihood of molding icing on the cake with regard to lan- with us throughout our adult lives. them into well-rounded, polite, and guage development. Parents should take the time to have socially integrated children. We can all remember having inter- short conversations, throughout the Thomas C. Daus is a speech-language actions with people whereby either course of one’s day, to allow for op- pathologist. For further information on a lack of eye contact, difficulties portunities to teach, through model- pragmatic development strategies, and with staying on topic, and perhaps ing of target, pragmatic goals. also an overall understanding of speech an abrupt ending to a conversation For our preschool students, there and language development, visit speak- may have left us feeling a bit awk- are numerous pragmatic functions ingfromtheheart.org.

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August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 39 HealtH Stay screen smart How to balance computer time and health

Lately, I have read a lot about the harms of “screen addiction” for children, and the problems that can arise from too much time spent on smartphones, tablets, video games, Family HealtH and other screen-based media. How- Dr. PramoD Narula, mD ever, my teenagers, who are both Chairman of Pediatrics good students, tell me they still need New York methodist Hospital to use computers every day for their schoolwork, to write papers, and do research. How can I balance their need for that kind of “screen time” against its negative impacts?

or certain, parents and children alike are living in an F increasingly screen-driven world, and you are very right to note it is having negative effects on childhood development. We know for sure that the brain is highly sensitive to stimuli from computer or smartphone screens, and screen addiction is already associated with increased risk of type-2 diabetes, particularly when an electronic device becomes a substitute for physical activity. Constant electronic device usage may also stunt a child’s social development and increase her chances of conduct problems high schools students are assigned, have clear citations and have been and emotional issues. on average, every day. It seems that verified for accuracy. And paper But you’ve also touched upon a there are no easy solutions — yet. does not emit light! Hitting the old- note that often goes unaddressed The good news is that there fashioned books can thus improve — namely, that not all screens are are straightforward steps you can the quality of a student’s sleep and, created equal. It may not be nec- take to minimize the effects of any as a side-benefit, the quality of her essary for a child to send 50 text schoolwork “screen time.” As a very work, too. messages a day or to watch movies first step: if your child is using an on- It’s important to note that, screen on an iPad, but desktop computers line source for academic research, or no screen, a healthy wind-down themselves are mandatory for many encourage her to just print it out time after homework and before day-to-day academic tasks, particu- and read it, and simply recycle the bed (at the minimum 30–60 min- larly for high school-age students. paper after it is no longer needed. utes) is still a necessity, and ignor- College essays and applications are Avoid researching “on-screen.” In ing this necessity is like ignoring the now completed digitally — and, for addition to the harmful effects that necessity to exercise — might work better or worse, the internet is often constant light exposure can lead to, for a while, but is bound to catch up the first place a student will look to studies have suggested that the way with you sooner or later. To make do academic research. articles are navigated on screen as that happen, maintaining a realistic The developing brain was not opposed to in text on pages also im- schedule is key. designed to stare into a computer pairs comprehension. And touching It’s good that you have recog- screen, and yet, for many tasks, on academics — one of the reasons nized that this is a complex issue, there is no practical way around that children use their computers and that some screens are easier to it. And yet, teenagers also rightly to do research is, simply, because turn off than others. But these steps need at least nine hours of sleep it is fastest to do everything on are a good start to making sure that per night, which comes at math- screen, even if it unintentionally the combination of “computer time” ematical odds with time that must reduces the accuracy and verifiabil- and “study time” has the least im- be devoted after school activities ity of schoolwork. It might sound pact on your child’s development and 3.5 hours of homework that “old school,” but published books through her school years.

40 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 ing: hives, abdominal pain, vomit- ing, diarrhea, wheezing, repetitive coughing, throat swelling, tongue Keeping kids with swelling, dizziness. • Anaphylaxis can happen anywhere at any time, and it can be deadly if not treated quickly and properly. Parents must educate food allergies safe themselves, their children, their friends, their family, schools, By Dr. Buck Parker camps, babysitters, and anyone else caring for their child about the rips to the emergency room severity of food allergies and how for kids with food allergies to avoid life-threatening allergic re- T are on the rise. Many are actions. being brought in for a severe and • B e vigilant about cross contam- life-threatening allergic reac- ination. Battling food allergies is tion — called anaphylaxis not only about avoiding consump- — and are having a second tion of the allergen, but also severe reaction hours later, about avoiding contact with when they are still in the the allergen. Wash hands hospital. So, what can parents of with soap and water and kids with food allergies do to avoid keep kitchen surfaces and the terror of an emergency room tables clean. Do not share visit, other than doing their best to five things parents of food, drinks, or utensils. avoid the foods their children are children with food allergies • A l w ay s have a second dose of allergic to? must do to keep their children safe epinephrine with you and use it if Many of these severe reactions and out of the emergency room: a second reaction starts to occur could have been prevented in the • D o not be afraid to administer again. first place. Avoidance of the aller- epinephrine. Give epinephrine at Dr. Buck Parker is a trauma surgeon gen is key and most parents will do the first sign of a severe allergic and one of the stars of NBC’s show everything in their power to protect reaction. develop at any time, so always be “The Island.” He provides expert medi- their child from that particular sub- • N o one is immune to food al- aware of severe allergic reaction cal opinions on the web, radio, and tele- stance, but in addition, there are lergies, and new food allergies can symptoms to look out, for includ- vision programs nationwide. The Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts 234 Roosevelt Hall, 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11210 Over 35 years of music, theater, and dance instruction for children, teens and adults • MUSIC – for age 3 and up Beginner to advanced instrument and voice lessons, group classes, Suzuki programs for violin, cello, and flute for very young children • DANCE – for age 3 and up Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop, Combo classes • THEATER – for age 4 and up Creative Dramatics for the Very Young, Theater Workshops, Musical Theater Workshops Registration is now open for the 2015-2016 school year. Classes begin September 18th. Please call 718-951-4111 for a registration consultation or visit our website at www.bcprepcenter.org for complete course listings.

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 41 PARENTING

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION 2015 Bronze Award Winner When I just knew Editorial Awards Competition I was having a boy hen I was pregnant for back to that very moment, crossing a Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, the first time, I just knew quiet Brooklyn street knowing I was has worked as a writer and editor in the W that my baby was a girl. carrying my son. My boy is now 12 parenting world for more than 10 years. JUST WRITE We never found out beforehand, but and a skilled and passionate guitar Sullivan also writes about pets and par- when the doctor said, “It’s a girl!” player. While he usually plays alter- enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find MOM I wasn’t shocked at all. With our native and metal songs, he surprised Sullivan on her blogs, Just DANIELLE SULLIVAN second daughter, we skipped know- me recently and began playing Write Mom and ing the gender again, wanting to be “Ants Marching,” knowing Some Puppy surprised at birth. In the beginning, the full story behind To Love. I had no idea, but towards the end, I that song. You know was 99 percent sure she was a girl. how you always Right again. think the best With our third child, I had no idea moments in life initially. This pregnancy was a little are the big ones? different. I was nauseous 24 hours a They’re really day, seven days a week after never not. Sometimes having any morning sickness with they are a week- my first two. Thoughts of boys were day afternoon on my mind (even though the idea when you are of actually raising a boy terrified me simply listening a bit). But I still wasn’t having any to the quiet strum- strong feeling either way, until one ming of a sweet boy very ordinary day. who fills your heart. A few months into the pregnancy, I had just gotten off the subway and was on my way home. I was listening to a Dave Matthews Band song on my iPod, which I did nearly everyday on my commute home. I was enjoying a song that I had listened to about a million times before that day, “Ants Marching.” I thought nothing of it, and began mentally checking my to-do list as I took each step. And then Dave sang the line: “Goes to visit his mommy. She feeds him well, his concerns, he for- gets them. And remembers being small. Playing under the table and dreaming.” It stopped me in my tracks, liter- ally. I slowed my pace and just smiled, wondering if what I was feeling was actually true. This baby was a boy. In that moment, I just knew it. I felt a certain warmness and happiness that I hadn’t experienced before. A few weeks after that day, a sonogram confirmed he was indeed, a boy. It was one of the few magical times I’ve had as an adult. Of course, whenever I hear that song it takes me

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August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 43 WOMEN The recipe for a healthier lifestyle

he scale: every mama’s worst FABULYSS enemy. I know how stressful T it is to look in the mirror and see an extra 10 to 20 pounds star- FINDS ing right back at you. Let’s face it, LYSS STERN mamas, we aren’t 18 anymore! We can’t eat whatever we want without gaining a pound. That doesn’t mean that you can’t look absolutely Fabu- Lyss no matter what stage of life you are at. Since my fathers passing seven months ago I put on some extra weight (to say the very least) and just haven’t been feeling myself. So, I am about to embark on a skinny Lysscious summer journey to get fit, the right way — the healthy way! No more late-night birthday cake ice-cream or Magnolia cupcakes. It’s going to be kitchen closed at 8 pm rule for moi this summer! The boys are away and it’s my time to get back to where I want to be — skinny jeans in the fall! The first step for me was going to see Carolyn at Food Trainers. Food Trainers was created by Lau- ren Slayton (my FabuLyss friend) to cater to clients who were busy and motivated, but needed help to eat healthier. Located on 65 Central Park West, these private nutrition sessions help thousands of New Yorkers who are trying to be healthier and lose weight. It’s hard to eat healthy! Lyss fun. Unlike the treadmill, time I invite all the moms to take these Believe me, there is nothing I love flies by during a Flywheel class. The challenges on with me. It’s time to more than carbs and ice cream, but Flywheel challenge is a two-week doing something for you! It will make the nutritionists at Food Trainers are tune up that includes five Flywheel you feel like a whole new person there to support you through your classes per week, early booking for when you start to eat clean and exer- whole journey. A support system classes (so you can get a good bike), cise. You’ll have energy you haven’t can get you through anything, even an exclusive 14-day nutrition plan, had since before you had kids! I also when all you want to do is eat a bag recipes, two nutrition conference want to tell my mamas that it’s im- of chips. Follow me on Instagram @ calls with Self Magazine nutrition- portant to be healthy, but it’s also diva_moms for this journey of mine ists, instructor coach to keep you on important to love yourself no matter — should be interesting to say the track, Flywheel workshop to help you what size you are. You are a super- very least. become more efficient on the bike, hero, and superheros are strong, Food Trainers, http://foodtrainers. and a closing gift. I know that going independent, FabuLyssly fierce, and com/main. to the gym sounds less than appeal- confident. I want all of you to remem- My next step is to take the Fly- ing on most days, but Flywheel is a ber that the next time you are buying wheel challenge at Flywheel Sports guaranteed full body workout that clothes. Beauty has no size, so strut and start incorporating more Fly- pushes you to your limits while also down the street like the FabuLyss wheel into my weekly routine. Spin having a FabuLyssly fly time. mamas that you all are! is a great way to burn a lot of calo- Flywheel Sports, www.flywheelsports. Lyss Stern is the founder of DivaLyss- ries while still having lots of Fabu- com. cious Moms (www.divamoms.com).

44 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 recommend it for ages 9 through 18 WOMEN and older, and give it 5 out of 5 pixelated stars. — Gerry O., age 13 See his video review at https://youtu. be/pHRaEiwcii0 • • • his movie directed by Chris The recipe for a Columbus full of action! “Pix- T els” starts off in 1982, when three teens compete in the Video Arcade World Championships. After the championship, Brenner’s (Adam healthier lifestyle Sandler) life goes downhill. Years later his best friend, now the Presi- he scale: every mama’s worst dent of the United States, calls on FABULYSS enemy. I know how stressful Brenner to help with an alien inva- T it is to look in the mirror and sion that could destroy the world. see an extra 10 to 20 pounds star- Brenner and his team have to defeat FINDS ing right back at you. Let’s face it, the 1980 video LYSS STERN mamas, we aren’t 18 anymore! We games in real life. can’t eat whatever we want without The plot is in- gaining a pound. That doesn’t mean teresting, unique, that you can’t look absolutely Fabu- and original, and Lyss no matter what stage of life could lead to a you are at. Since my fathers passing sequel. The com- seven months ago I put on some puter animation is extra weight (to say the very least) Lots of fun with realistic, detailed, and just haven’t been feeling myself. and so incredible. I know some peo- So, I am about to embark on a skinny ple don’t dig Sandler, but I really Lysscious summer journey to get fit, think he is very good in this role. the right way — the healthy way! The audience clapped at achieve- No more late-night birthday cake ments and laughed at all the funny ice-cream or Magnolia cupcakes. It’s these ‘Pixels’ parts. It was so cool to hear their going to be kitchen closed at 8 pm connection with the movie. rule for moi this summer! The boys The highly toted film, “Pixels,” opens blowingly fantastic. I still can’t figure One of my favorite characters is are away and it’s my time to get back Kid film critics this weekend to much applause. When out how they did some of them. The Eddie (Peter Dinklage). He is very to where I want to be — skinny jeans aliens misinterpret video feeds of clas- acting is spot on. One scene I really funny and he is very committed to in the fall! weigh in on sic arcade games as a declaration of liked is where two kids are competing his character. The first step for me was going war, they attack the Earth in the form on classic arcade machines with Don- My favorite part of the movie is to see Carolyn at Food Trainers. Adam Sandler’s of the video games. Directed by Chris key Kong loaded on them. The direc- when Brenner, Violet (Michelle Mon- Food Trainers was created by Lau- Columbus and starring Adam Sandler, tor makes it so you see them playing, aghan), and Cooper (Kevin James) ren Slayton (my FabuLyss friend) to latest effort Kevin James, and Michelle Monaghan, their points, and the screen, as well go up against Donkey Kong. All of the cater to clients who were busy and this is sure to be a hit with families as the reflection of the games in their computer animation is incredible. It is motivated, but needed help to eat looking for summer entertainment. eyes. It looks amazing! so realistic, and I found myself wish- healthier. Located on 65 Central Park My favorite scene is when they are ing I had been part of the action on West, these private nutrition ses- rom Donkey Kong to Pac-Man, facing Pac-Man set when the characters all jumped sions help thousands of New Yorkers from Adam Sandler to Josh in Mini Coopers over the barrels and up the ladders. who are trying to be healthier and F Gad, this film really has any- that are designed This movie is an interesting blend lose weight. It’s hard to eat healthy! Lyss fun. Unlike the treadmill, time I invite all the moms to take these thing you could imagine. “Pixels” is to be the ghosts of comedy, science fiction, and ac- Believe me, there is nothing I love flies by during a Flywheel class. The challenges on with me. It’s time to the funniest film of the year so far! who chase and tion. Even though there is some in- more than carbs and ice cream, but Flywheel challenge is a two-week doing something for you! It will make This is, of course, a comedy. How- destroy Pac-Man. appropriate language and question- the nutritionists at Food Trainers are tune up that includes five Flywheel you feel like a whole new person ever, along with that, there is a lot When Brenner’s able jokes, and in one scene kind of there to support you through your classes per week, early booking for when you start to eat clean and exer- of drama and a hint of romance car is the only one inappropriate dance moves, I still whole journey. A support system classes (so you can get a good bike), cise. You’ll have energy you haven’t all packed into one huge adventure left and Pac-Man enjoyed this film. Since this movie is can get you through anything, even an exclusive 14-day nutrition plan, had since before you had kids! I also made for the entire family to enjoy. just gets a “power up” — which, like new, funny, has amazing computer when all you want to do is eat a bag recipes, two nutrition conference want to tell my mamas that it’s im- The story features Brenner (Adam in the game, allows him to eat the animation, is well casted and trans- of chips. Follow me on Instagram @ calls with Self Magazine nutrition- portant to be healthy, but it’s also Sandler) who installs electronic ghosts — Brenner pulls of an awe- formed me, I give it 4 out of 5 stars. diva_moms for this journey of mine ists, instructor coach to keep you on important to love yourself no matter equipment for a living. However, some and insane stunts to run away. I recommend this movie for 11 to 18 — should be interesting to say the track, Flywheel workshop to help you what size you are. You are a super- when an alien species attacks in the It is action-packed and just stupen- year olds and think adults will enjoy very least. become more efficient on the bike, hero, and superheros are strong, form of 1980s classic video games, dous to watch! it, too. I do believe some younger Food Trainers, http://foodtrainers. and a closing gift. I know that going independent, FabuLyssly fierce, and Benner and his friends are the only This film is good for kids, adults, kids still could enjoy this film. It just com/main. to the gym sounds less than appeal- confident. I want all of you to remem- ones capable of stopping them. And, and gamers, of course. I do believe depends on how much they under- My next step is to take the Fly- ing on most days, but Flywheel is a ber that the next time you are buying to do so, they must beat the aliens, people in their 30s and 40s would stand the jokes and if they recognize wheel challenge at Flywheel Sports guaranteed full body workout that clothes. Beauty has no size, so strut as if they were in the game. like this the most because they can the video games from the 1980s. and start incorporating more Fly- pushes you to your limits while also down the street like the FabuLyss This film is fantastic! The special understand a lot of the older game — Mia A., age 11 wheel into my weekly routine. Spin having a FabuLyssly fly time. mamas that you all are! effects are absolutely mind blow- references. I don’t think younger kids See her video review at https://www. is a great way to burn a lot of calo- Flywheel Sports, www.flywheelsports. Lyss Stern is the founder of DivaLyss- ing. There are no boring scenes, and should watch this, due to the adult youtube.com/watch?v=hcdLQ6FZWsU& ries while still having lots of Fabu- com. cious Moms (www.divamoms.com). some special effects are simply mind- language and mature references. I feature=youtu.be

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 45 Technology Apps that connect families and nature

o your children enjoy being outdoors? According to a re- D cent study from the Nature GrowinG Up Conservancy, 82 percent of Ameri- can parents feel that spending time online in nature is “very important” to a Carolyn Jabs child’s development, second only to reading. Despite that sense of priority, 65 percent of parents in Brazil, China, France, and Hong Kong as well as the U.S. regard lack of time outdoors as a serious problem. The Children and Nature Network has compiled research connecting what it calls “nature deficit disorder” to attention problems and diminished awareness of the senses as well as physical inactivity and obesity. Ironically, both of these organiza- tions responded to this problem by developing websites. Naturerocks. activities on the go (naturefind.com). family can sign up to record changes org, a partnership between the Na- Parkfinder provides concise infor- in a specific site such as a favorite ture Conservancy and Disney, offers mation about city, state, and national park or your own backyard. Then a rich collection of activities that will parks. A menu of activities allows you use the app to make regular field get kids outdoors to engage with the to search for parks where your family notes. Specific questions encourage natural world, as well as an interac- can pursue your favorite pastimes children to notice seasonal changes tive map that points families toward (ohranger.com). for plants, birds, and other creatures. beaches, campgrounds, aquariums all Trails is a source for informa- Those observations become part of and zoos. The Children and Nature tion about 50,000 trails in the U.S. and a database that helps scientists track Network has a list of nature clubs Canada. In addition to information migration patterns (usanpn.org/na- for families (childrenandnature.org/ about level of difficulty and scenery tures_notebook). movement-directory). along the way, you’ll have access to inaturalist, an app and a website, Going online in order to strengthen comments from other hikers. The is the brainchild of college students your family’s connection with the great basic app is free. For $50 a year, you whose ambitious goal is a “living outdoors may seem counter-intuitive, can get very detailed maps produced record of life on Earth that scien- but in our wired age, it does not make in a partnership with National Geo- tists and land managers could use sense to ignore the many websites and graphic (alltrails.com). to monitor changes in biodiversity, apps that promise to inspire and sup- and that anyone could use to learn port a deeper involvement with the get involved more about nature.” Younger kids world beyond the screen. A number of apps motivate users may need help in uploading photos, to take the next step and become cit- but they will have the satisfaction of Where to go izen scientists, reporting their obser- knowing that they are contributing Yes, you can explore the natural vations and taking action to preserve to a massive database that records world in your own backyard or in the threatened species and habitats: life on the planet (inaturalist.org). park down the street. But when you Project noaH (Networked Organ- Think of these apps as bridges that have the urge for a bigger adventure, isms and Habitats) encourages wildlife will connect the virtual world in which these apps can guide you: lovers, young and old, to take photos most kids spend most of their time natureFind pinpoints all sorts of of what they see and upload them and the natural world where there are places where families can satisfy an to a website. The photos help scien- miracles waiting to be discovered. appetite for exploration. In addition tists track wildlife populations. And Carolyn Jabs has been writing Grow- to nature centers and natural history a global community is ready to help ing Up Online for 10 years and is working museums, the website provides de- your child identify unknown plants on a book about constructive responses scriptions and directions for zoos, bo- and animals (projectnoah.org). to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online. tanical gardens, and wildlife refuges. nature’s notebook takes a differ- com to read other columns. A mobile version makes it easy to find ent approach to observation. Your Copyright, 2014, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

46 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 NEW YORK SPECIAL CHILD

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August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 47 Rash judgments Your basic By Christa Melnyk hines larmed by that angry red rash guide — from splashed across your child’s body? A Rashes run the spectrum, signal- itchy and ing anything from a mild viral infection to a chronic or even life-threatening illness. perplexing to Since the list of rashes and their causes is extensive, you may wonder what’s kind of creepy what and when to call the doctor. First, avoid self-diagnosis. “Viral and allergic rashes both can present as a diffuse, splotchy, blanching, pinkish rash. Because the rashes look similar, it can be impossible sometimes to tell the differ- ence just by appearance,” says dermatologist Dr. Regi- nald B. Henry. Below are the more common types of childhood rashes and typical treatment methods. Check with your family physician or dermatologist to correctly diag- nose and treat a mysterious rash.

Diaper rash Even the most conscien- tious diaper-changing parent may see an uncom- fortable, red, puffy rash blossom on her baby’s bottom. Babies can suffer from diaper rash after a bout of diarrhea, as a side effect from antibiotics, or if they recently started eating solid foods. Change your baby’s diaper frequently, and use wipes without alcohol or fragrances to gently pat the area dry. Treat the area with a protective barrier oint- ment after each diaper change. If the skin appears infected with blis-

48 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 ters, oozing discharge, or painful on their own, “due to the fact they open sores, call your are contagious, we tend to treat pediatrician. them with a spray or liquid nitro- gen every one to two weeks until Are you a mom Eczema they are gone,” says dermatologist About 10 Dr. Donna Corvette. “We can also percent of in- treat with various topical acids and who wants to fants and chil- sometimes we use blister beetle dren suffer from juice, which is quite effective.” atopic dermati- make money? Rash tis, or eczema. Parasitic The chronic A pimple-like skin rash that’s ex- disease is espe- tremely itchy and contagious could cially common in be caused by scabies, which is a families with a his- mite that burrows into the skin. Be- judgments tory of allergies and cause scabies can spread quickly asthma. According to through skin-to-skin contact, your the National Eczema physician may recommend treat- By Christa Melnyk hines Association, 65 percent ing the entire family with a topical Your basic of children are diagnosed medication. larmed by that angry red rash in their first year of life and guide — from splashed across your child’s body? 90 percent by the time they Fungal A Rashes run the spectrum, signal- are 5 years old. Eczema is ex- The name might make you shud- itchy and ing anything from a mild viral infection to tremely itchy, but is not conta- der, but ringworm (tinea corporis), a chronic or even life-threatening illness. gious. It appears as red, scaly dry a red circular skin rash, is caused by perplexing to Since the list of rashes and their causes skin and can vary in severity. a fungal infection, not a worm. The is extensive, you may wonder what’s Physicians generally treat ec- rash doesn’t always itch, but can kind of creepy what and when to call the doctor. zema first with an over-the-counter spread from skin-to-skin contact. First, avoid self-diagnosis. cortisone cream to calm the red, in- Treat with an anti-fungal product. “Viral and allergic rashes flamed skin. Throughout the year, both can present as a diffuse, treat skin with moisturizers. Allergies splotchy, blanching, pinkish “Lotions are better in the humid Rashes like hives are allergic re- rash. Because the rashes look months, ointments in the winter actions that are typically splotchy, similar, it can be impossible months,” Henry says. “Don’t over- blanching, pinkish, and intensely sometimes to tell the differ- treat your child if the dermatitis itchy. A new food or a new medica- ence just by appearance,” isn’t really bothering her.” tion could be the culprit. Consult says dermatologist Dr. Regi- with your doctor for diagnosis and We want you to join our team. nald B. Henry. Bacterial treatment. Seek immediate medical Below are the more com- Staphylococcal and streptococ- attention if your child has trouble mon types of childhood cal bacteria often cause infections breathing or experiences swelling We are looking for a rashes and typical treatment with rashes, including impetigo, of the tongue, lips, or face. methods. Check with your scarlet fever (strep throat with Contact dermatitis like poison ivy motivated candidate. family physician or derma- a rash), folliculitis and cellulitis. or exposure to other irritants can tologist to correctly diag- Lyme disease, caused by the bac- also cause itchy allergic reactions. nose and treat a mysterious terium Borrelia burgdorferi and Treat the area with an over-the- No sales experience necessary, rash. transmitted by ticks, can cause a counter cortisone cream. For insect bull’s-eye rash. If you suspect Lyme bites, try ammonia-containing prod- but a car and liking people Diaper rash Disease, seek medical attention im- ucts like AfterBite Kids. Henry also Even the most conscien- mediately. recommends oatmeal baths, baking is a must! tious diaper-changing par- Bacterial infections are typically soda compresses, and Sarna lotion, ent may see an uncom- treated with antibiotics. or Noxzema cooled in the refrigera- fortable, red, puffy rash tor to help relieve itching. Full benefits, salary and blossom on her baby’s Viral When should you seek emer- commission bottom. Babies can suf- Viral-related rashes are splotchy, gency care? fer from diaper rash after blanching (disappears when “Special care and concern should a bout of diarrhea, as a pressed), pinkish-colored and usu- be given to the child who appears side effect from antibiot- ally accompany other symptoms acutely ill with fever and rash,” Cor- ics, or if they recently like fever, diarrhea, sore throat, vette says. “Seek prompt care in an started eating solid and lethargy. Typical childhood emergency room setting for urgent foods. Change your ba- viruses that present with a rash treatment. Do not procrastinate on Email resumes to [email protected] by’s diaper frequently, include Fifth Disease; molluscum these types of rashes.” or call Tina at 718-260-8336 and use wipes without contagiosum; chicken pox (vari- Writer Christa Melnyk Hines is a alcohol or fragrances to cella); roseola; and hand, foot, and mom of two sons, ages 8 and 9, who gently pat the area dry. mouth disease. Depending on the have sported a variety of questionable Treat the area with a diagnosis, your physician may pre- rashes over the years. She is the author protective barrier oint- scribe antiviral medications. of “Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: ment after each diaper Warts are another viral skin con- Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a change. If the skin ap- dition commonly seen among kids. Digital World.” Visit her at www.chris- pears infected with blis- Although warts generally resolve tamelnykhines.com.

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 49 teens Share your voice and talents online

have always loved writing. When made fashion guru Bethany Mota a posting work on the web can also be A letter I was little, I dreamed of being household name. For creative and extremely dangerous. Be aware that I a published author. Thanks to ambitious teenagers, gaining atten- anything you post will forever have NY Parenting, my wish came true tion for their work is challenging. a footprint on the internet. Thus, it from college much earlier, for which I am so grate- They bring a new perspective and is best to be cautious about the ma- AglAiA Ho ful. Creativity, however, is neither shed light on the realities of the next terial you choose to share. Cherry- formulaic nor scheduled. Some- generation that adults fail to under- pick any personal information you times, thoughts and opinions do not stand, but companies and agents do disclose. Technology makes it quite emerge on a regular basis and other not always find young talent that de- simple for a stalker to find out more times — more common than an ex- sirable. Age and lack of experience is about you, so do not make his job ception — I have more words to put a hamartia. So is the fact that school easier by posting too much private on paper than can be printed. I have hinders teenagers’ work availability. and personal information like your turned to an online blog as an alter- Not to mention, actively submitting address, telephone number, or im- nate platform to share my voice with work to potential agents or employ- ages of your neighborhood. Also, others. It can be like projecting into ers can be daunting for youngsters, take a second to review how you a void not knowing whether anyone due to the fear of rejection and their present yourself to an online com- will see my site. Yet, it can also be delicate self-esteem. munity. This includes choosing like broadcasting your life because The web provides a diverse plat- wisely the language you use and the someone might actually be looking form that can unlock many new op- images or videos you share. Do not at your work. portunities for teens. In the past convey yourself as anything your The internet is undoubtedly one decade, websites have emerged that grandmother would not be proud of of the best inventions, especially for have allowed for sharing of all types — or a creeper could relish in. Don’t teenage artists, activists, and vision- of media. YouTube provides filmmak- forget that your work, if on a public aries who need a public platform for ers a public screen and musicians a platform, is available for teachers, their projects. The web has spawned stage. Instagram allows young pho- future employers, or college recruit- and uncovered plenty of young sen- tographers to share their portfolios. ers to see. Be careful about posting sations. It has propelled singer Justin Writers can log onto plenty of differ- anything that specifically criticizes Bieber to fame (and notoriety) and ent sites — Tumblr, Blogger, Weebly your school or work. (which I use) — to create an One question that might still linger online journal for their stories, is whether posting online will actu- editorials, and essays. Even ally be effective. The truth is you can young activists can publicize never be sure. When I first started my their campaigns on social net- blog, I never thought it would be the working sites and even ask talk of teenagers all across America. for donations through crowd It still is not, but I have had some op- funding. College applicants portunities that have resulted from can even create their own site my newfound online presence. Yet, to showcase all their talent even if nothing becomes of my blog and achievements. The bot- in the future, I still intend to commit tom line is whatever dream to writing for it. It gives me a sense of you have, the internet has a worth and significance by being able place for it. The web will not to post my work. discriminate based on your My writing is more useful being age, gender, or race. Those less online for anyone to read than it sure about their own abilities is taking up memory on my lap- can even post anonymously top. Give yourself the opportunity and do not have to face direct to share your work with one or with criticism. Harsh words and thousands. Remember that if what constructive advice are buff- you do is really your passion, you ered behind usernames and win either way. can allow a teenager as much Aglaia Ho is a rising junior at Wil- privacy and personal space as liams College and a native New Yorker. he or she needs. She also writes for her own blog at www. It goes without saying that aglai aho.weebl y.com.

50 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 HealtHealtHyhy eating eating Picking safe foods at farmers markets hopping at a farmers’ market not only offers some of the S freshest fruits, veggies, and Good sense other foods, but it also offers the opportunity to buy locally, support eatinG small business, and connect with Christine M. PaluMbo, rD your community. But as you explore farmers’ markets in your area, pay attention to the vendors’ food safety. Vendors often sell products outdoors where they are exposed to dirt, bugs, and pollutants. In addition, they usually have little access to water for product washing. Most markets have their own food safety rules as well as related government regulations. But there are basic guidelines you should follow, too: • C h e c k the stands’ overall cleanli- ness, including gloves and clean utensils, covered garbage cans, coolers for perishables, and clean bags. • B e sure to use separate reusable and vegetables. To reduce your risk: inside when you cut or peel them. grocery totes for raw meat and poul- Go early for the best selections, wash • Refrigerate cut or peeled fruits try and ready- to-eat foods. It’s im- fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and and vegetables within two hours. portant to wash your reusable totes dry them with a clean cloth or paper • O n l y buy pasteurized milk prod- often. Unwashed grocery bags are towel. Avoid produce with mold, ucts. Pregnant women, young chil- breeding grounds for bacteria. bruises, or cuts. dren, and people with weakened • Harmful food-borne pathogens • Wa sh produce even if you plan to immune systems are at higher risk like E. coli, salmonella, listeria, and peel it. Bacteria on the outside of mel- for illness caused by listeria. Soft norovirus may contaminate fruits ons and bananas can be transferred cheeses made from unpasteurized milk are one common source. • E g g s should be properly chilled Raspberry-blackberry at 45-degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure greek yogurt ice pops eggs are clean and the shells are not cracked. Makes 6 to 8 (depending on the size of the mold) • M e a t should be kept in closed INGREDIENTS: coolers with ice. Perishables must be 2 cups fresh (or frozen and thawed) blackberries or refrigerated within two hours (one raspberries hour if it’s more than 90-degrees 1/4 cup powdered sugar Fahrenheit), so bring an insulated 16 ounces honey-flavored Greek-style yogurt bag for the way home. Separate meat from other ready-to-eat foods, so the DIRECTIONS: Combine berries with powdered sugar in juices from raw meat do not come in a blender or food processor, pulse until smooth to make contact with other foods. purée. spoon half the yogurt into a bowl and stir in 2 • O n l y buy juice or cider that has tbsp. of purée so it is stained pink. spoon into ice pop been pasteurized. molds, add the rest of the purée, then the rest of the • To locate a farmers’ market near yogurt. Push in ice pop sticks and freeze until solid. you, go to www.localharvest.org. NUTRITION FACTS: 90 calories, 16 g carbohydrate (14 g Christine Palumbo is a Naperville-reg- sugar), 6 g protein, 0 g fat, 25 mg sodium, 136 mg potas- istered dietitian nutritionist. Follow her sium, 2 g fiber on Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook at adapted from the oregon Raspberry and Blackberry Commission. Christine Palumbo Nutrition, or Chris@ ChristinePalumbo.com.

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 51 PARENTING

MOMMY 101 ANGELICA SEREDA

mentioned, it can get messy when a toddler is trying to help out in that area. I’m worried she’ll spill things, How I teach or worse, accidentally cut herself when trying to do it “like Mommy.” But seeing her light up any time she can help with a meal makes me so responsibility happy. It also makes me happy to see her little sister wanting to do the ’ve been trying to teach Olivia does not do: put away her laundry, same things. If a 4 year old is making about responsibility. At almost and she said, “Mommy, that’s your a mess in the kitchen, imagine what I 4 years old, there’s a lot she can responsibility!” I realized then that an 18 month old can do! do to help out around the house she had a full understanding of the Now that I have children of my — she’s able to clean up her toys word. own, I admit that I didn’t help out (which I’ve made easy by purchasing I like talking to other parents enough around the house enough a bunch of bins), she tidies up when about this topic on whether or not when I was younger. Even as a teen- she sees that something is not in its their toddlers help around the house. ager, I felt like housework was such place, and she even feeds the pets, Some say that they’re still too young, a chore. Yes, housework is a chore when she’s up to it. and others say that while they do (even if you have help with it), but When we started this whole intro- ask them to do some things, it never part of being responsible is taking duction to the word “responsibility” gets done the right way. Granted, Ol- ownership of it and getting it done. a few months ago, she asked me ivia doesn’t always organize her toys I like to think I’m preparing my what it meant. I explained to her that the way I would like, and when she’s kids for the real world. They’ll need it meant she is expected to take care doing other things, especially in the to take care of themselves and of her toys and clean up after herself, kitchen, there are some messes, but we’re starting with what they can something she needs to do every that’s to be expected. She’s learning do at home. Once they’ve mastered day. I could tell she felt empowered while making those mistakes and cleaning up toys and being mom- and like a real “big girl.” For a while, gaining confidence in her abilities to my’s little helpers, I think the pos- she went on about her new responsi- help out. sibilities are endless. I’m thinking bilities with pride. Then, I asked her I’ve been hesitant to let her help dish washing is next. That makes to do something that she normally around the kitchen because, as I me very happy.

52 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 HealtHealtHyhy eating eating Grilling fruit, veggies

veryone has their favorite grill with pasta, or use anywhere you Grilled eggplant and portobello recipes, which usually involve would use regular tomatoes. mushroom burgers E meats and marinades. Don’t Serves four skimp on the veggies this summer Grilled tomato bruschetta INGREDIENTS: with these tips and recipes. Serves four 1 medium eggplant INGREDIENTS: 4 portobello mushrooms, cleaned grilled citrus 1 pint grape tomatoes and de-stemmed Charring the cut side of a lemon 4 tbsp olive oil, plus 1 tbsp for grill- 1 tbsp vegetable oil Tips for or lime adds a smoky flavor when ing 4 whole-wheat buns or English squeezed over grilled meats, fish, 1 pinch red pepper flake Muffins feeding kids or vegetables. You can also use the 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar Jenny Gensterblum grilled citrus as the acid in a vin- Salt and pepper, to taste 1 tbsp olive oil aigrette that will have more depth 1/2 tbsp sherry vinegar Your favorite burger toppings: than a typical citrus vinaigrette. 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, washed cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions and dried Salt and pepper, to taste Grilled lemon vinaigrette 1/2 whole baguette, sliced DIRECTIONS: Cut eggplant cross- Serves four DIRECTIONS: Cut grape tomatoes wise into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Sea- INGREDIENTS: in half lengthwise. Prepare two foil son eggplants and mushrooms with 2–3 lemons, cut in half packets using aluminum foil. Place salt and pepper. Drizzle oil on both 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil tomatoes inside each, drizzle with 1 sides of the eggplants and mush- 1 tsp dijon mustard tbsp olive oil, red pepper flakes, and rooms. On a hot grill, place a single Salt and pepper, to taste salt and pepper. Close the foil pouch layer of the eggplant and mushrooms. DIRECTIONS: Place lemons, cut and grill on a medium hot grill for Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side side down, on a hot grill. Remove about 18 minutes, or until the toma- until dark grill marks appear. If the when nicely charred. When cool, toes burst and release their juices. vegetables are getting to dark and squeeze out the juice into a small When slightly cooled, put tomatoes aren’t cooked through, transfer to a bowl. Add the mustard and whisk to- into a bowl. Add the remaining olive cooler part of the grill to finish cook- gether. While whisking, slowly driz- oil, minced garlic, sherry vinegar, ing. When cooked through, transfer zle in olive oil, until combined. Sea- and salt and pepper to taste. Tear to a platter and drizzle with vinegar son with salt and pepper to taste. the basil leaves with your hands and oil. Assemble burgers. and add to the bowl. Mix gently until grilled tomatoes combined. Top each slice of baguette grilled desserts Summer is the season to enjoy with a heaping mound of tomato Make room on the grill for dessert. ripe, farm-fresh tomatoes. So as to mixture. Try pineapple, peaches, grapefruit, not lose all the juices and great fla- bananas, or watermelon straight on vor, try grilling tomatoes in a foil Cut to grill the grill and your favorite berries in packet with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, When grilling vegetables, make a foil pouch. and pepper. Use as a bruschetta top- sure to slice them properly. For ping, to make a smoky salsa, toss quicker, more even cooking, make Grilled peaches with ricotta sure to cut veggies in large pieces yogurt and honey that will expose more of the sur- Serves four face to the grill. Instead of chunks, INGREDIENTS: cut eggplants, zucchini, or sum- 4 peaches, halved & pitted mer squash into rounds or thick 1 cup ricotta cheese slices lengthwise. 1 cup greek yogurt Honey, for drizzling How long to 1 tsp olive oil grill veggies? DIRECTIONS: In a bowl, mix to- Similar to roasting or gether ricotta and yogurt. Brush the blanching, some vegetables cut side of each peach with olive simply take longer than others oil. Over a medium-hot grill, place (potatoes vs. asparagus, for ex- the peaches, cut side down. Grill for ample) on the grill. about 5 to 8 minutes, or until soft- To get perfect vegetables on ened and lightly charred. Remove the grill, toss them in oil, salt peaches to a platter. Fill each peach and pepper, then sear on the half with ricotta yogurt. Drizzle with grill over high heat. Once they honey and serve. are nicely charred, move them to Chef Jenny Gensterblum is executive a cooler part of the grill to finish chef at Léman Manhattan Preparatory cooking the insides. School.

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 53 Photo by Robert Wagoner

(Clockwise from left) The main draw of Watkins Glen State Park are the waterfalls. Learn all about glass at Corning Museum of Glass. The Taughannock Falls State Park offers a picturesque view.

Museums The Corning Museum of Glass [1 Museum Way in Corning, (800) 732–6845, www.cmog.org] Founded in 1951 by Corning Incor- porated, this museum is dedicated Discover the to telling the story of glass. Glass is a versatile, ancient material and has been explored by artists, scientists, and historians for thousands of years. The rich history of glass is dis- played in the Glass Collection Galler- ies. Your family can learn about the Finger Lakes science and technology behind glass and recent innovation via hands-on By Shnieka L. JohnSon Don’t forget your hiking boots exhibits in the Innovation Center. to explore the Finger Lakes State There, concepts behind optics, ves- he Finger Lakes region lies Parks. sels, and windows can be explored. within the triangle between There are also a number of cul- You will even have an opportunity to T Syracuse, Rochester, and tural institutions accessible to the delve deeper into glassmaking with Corning in central New York and in- area, like the Rockwell Museum in Make Your Own Glass sessions (for cludes the 11 lakes in that area. The Corning, the National Museum of beginners) offered daily. The studio Finger Lakes is a family-friendly and Play in Rochester, or the Rosamond also offers year-round courses in all culture-filled region that has some- Gifford Zoo in Syracuse. levels of glassmaking that range in thing for every age and interest. Looking for an amusement park? length and level of difficulty. The region caters primarily to Seabreeze amusement park (and Museum of the earth [1259 Tru- those interested in outdoor activi- waterpark) overlooks Lake Ontario, mansburg Rd., Ithaca, (607) 273– ties, especially those looking to and offers roller coasters, thrill 6623, www.priweb.org] escape the city for something dif- rides, and live shows for all ages. The Paleontological Research ferent and a chance to sleep under The road trip to central New York Institution was founded in 1932 to the stars. There are numerous will provide lifelong memories, and care for collections of specimens campgrounds with accommoda- now is the perfect time to go. Here’s and publish findings in paleonto- tions ranging from traditional tent 10 of my favorite attractions from logical research. The institute, for camping to cabins and cottages. the Finger Lakes region: many years, boasted research, col-

54 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 hike the trails — ranging from easy Links to moderate difficulty. www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org Robert H. Treman State Park www.museumofplay.org (105 Enfield Falls Rd., Ithaca) School GuideAugust 2015 FREE www.rockwellmuseum.org Robert H. Treman State Park BROOKLYN Fall is just south of Ithaca and hosts www.seabreeze.com a gorge called Enfield Glen. Your www.flcheesetrail.com family can take advantage of the www.fingerlakes.org/things- hiking trails that lead to the 115 Ft Family Where Every Child Matters to-do/museum-trail Lucifer Falls. www.nyparks.com/regions/ Fillmore Glen State Park (1686 finger-lakes St. Rte. 38, Moravia) Fillmore Glen State Park has Kid f it ! dense woods that lead to a nar- 10 easy athletic lections, publications, and public row gorge. tips for any family education. It was not until 2003 Taughannock Falls State Park that the Museum of the Earth was (2221 Taughannock Rd., Trumans- established to provide the general burg) Social media public with a unique venue to see Taughannock Falls State Park’s and your teen its artifacts. The museum encour- namesake waterfall is one of the ages critical thinking about life highest in the region with sur- on Earth (past and present). Your rounding trails for exploration. Older moms, family can explore a mix of natu- Note that there is a balcony acces- new challenges ral history displays, interactive sci- sible from the upper parking lot ence features, and art exhibitions. near Route 89. There are hands-on, visual exhi- Watkins Glen State Park bitions and community outreach. (Route 14, Watkins Glen) The museum’s permanent collec- Watkins Glen State Park has not tion will take your family on a only gorges, but also 19 different Find us online at www.NYParenting.com journey through history — billions waterfalls and cascasdes. The base of years. entrance is available off Route 14. Sciencenter [601 First St., Ithaca, (607) 272–0200, www.sci- Trails encenter.org] Fingerlakes Cheese Trail, loca- Founded in 1983, Sciencenter is tion varies a nationally recognized museum, Renowned for its wineries and If you like hosting guests not only in Ithaca natural beauty, the Finger Lakes but also worldwide through travel- region is also has abundance of ing exhibitions and outreach. This farms and orchards. The Finger the magazine bright hand-on space is perfect for Lakes Cheese Trail started in 2010 families. The museum itself was a is a collaborative of small farms community effort, operating from whose goal is to drive business storefronts for nearly a decade and and visitation to the farms and you’ll love then taking volunteers an addi- help bolster tourism in the Finger tional 10 years to expand a small Lakes Region as an agri-tourism permanent space to the now ex- attraction. Your family can take the site. panded Sciencenter in 2003. This a tour with the use of the trail’s is truly a beloved museum. map. Museum Trail, location varies Parks, falls and gorges The Finger Lakes Tourism Alli- There is an abundance of state ance has partnered with nine mu- parks in the Finger Lakes region, seums, attractions, and historic making for beautiful scenery. Each homes to create the new Finger Check us out! park has its own unique charm, Lakes Museum Trail. The aim is with some offering a lake-front for visitors (and residents alike) view while others boast gorges to explore the history and culture and waterfalls. Some waterfalls in within the Finger Lakes region. NYParenting.com the area can be seen from the The museums include institutions street and for others you’ll have to like the Womens Rights Museum make your way along a park path and sites such as the home of Har- or hiking trail. riett Tubman. The museums of the Buttermilk Falls State Park Finger Lakes are entertaining and (105 Enfield Falls Rd., Ithaca) educational. Where every family matters and Buttermilk Creek flows down the Shnieka Johnson is an education steep valley side toward Cayuga consultant and freelance writer. She is where New York parents find help, Lake and the falls are visible just based in Manhattan where she resides off Route 13 south of Ithaca. Your with her husband and son. Contact her family can swim at the base of the via her website: www.shniekajohnson. info and support. falls during the summer months or com.

August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 55 BOOKS A hair-raising true story In the middle of World War II, when terproofed with wax and gas- resources and money were both oline, but nobody gave that scarce, a trip to the circus was a huge much thought — until the fire treat. Families sometimes saved for spread, and so did panic. months for the chance to see big cats, Screams filled the air and elephants, trapeze acts, and clowns. circus-goers raced for exits, According to the true story in “Big some of which were blocked Top Burning” by Laura A. Woollett, by animal chutes. A few peo- that was the case for many residents ple escaped beneath the cir- of Hartford, Conn., when the Ringling cus tent. Others fell to the THE BOOK Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus ground and were crushed. came to town that day in early July Within 10 minutes, the Big WORM 1944. Tent had burned to the TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER “More than 6,000 people attended ground, injuring more than the circus on that hot July 6 after- 480 people and killing 167 noon,” says Woollett. people, 59 of which were The Big Tent (which was “mas- children under age 10. sive” and weighed more than 75,000 But how did the fire start, pounds) filled quickly with circus- and who were the people whose book is intended (10 and up). goers, clowns and horses, bears and bodies were never claimed? The an- I was riveted by the personal ac- lions, tigers, chimps, and elephants. swers to those questions are still counts of this tragedy, and I think Large chutes at the entrances unknown. the lingering mystery at the end will whisked the animals in and out, the It’s summertime. Who wants to capture kids’ interest. air smelled like popcorn, and the af- read history books in the summer, While the photographs inside this ternoon promised to be a fun one. anyhow? Give your child “Big Top book aren’t terribly graphic, some It’s likely, then, that few people no- Burning,” and rest assured that he of the narrative might be a bit much ticed the tiny flame on the side of the will. for sensitive young readers. Just be tent in the corner by the men’s room. With a sense of urgency and just aware because, even for an adult, Those who did probably thought the the right setting in time, author “Big Top Burning” can be a hair- circus workers would take care of Laura A. Woollett presents this true raising book. it; fires were pretty common at cir- story in a way that will resonate well “Big Top Burning,” by Laura A. Wool- cuses at that time. The tent was wa- with the age group for which this lett [167 pages, 2015, $18.95]. Looking for answers to icky questions? No, you’re not a baby anymore. water is removed. After another day humans but for plants and animals You can tie your shoes, comb your or so, digestion is complete and you’ll as well. own hair, and nobody needs to be ready to flush what’s left down This information — and the trivial feed you. You can even use the the toilet. bits that accompany it — is helped potty by yourself — but what hap- Then what? Everything goes along by illustrations by Richard pens after you do? down a long pipe, under the ground, Watson, both in the main part of You’ll find out in the book “In and into a sewer. There, it mixes the book and in the fun-to-find flaps One End and Out the Other” by with things that other people have that give kids even more knowledge Dr. Mike Goldsmith, illustrated flushed and heads to a sewage treat- about the everyday function of their by Richard Watson. ment plant where it gets dumped bodies and their cities. Just like gasoline in a car, through screens into chambers and Even though I’m well beyond food is fuel for your body and becomes sludge. the target age of this book (5–7), the first step in making that fuel There, germs break down the I learned a lot from it, and I think is the saliva in your mouth that sludge in the same way your body your kids undoubtedly will, too. If helps “mush up the food.” breaks down food. you’re looking for answers to st-icky Once you’ve finished a bite and At some plants, sludge gets dried questions, “In One End and Out the swallowed, the “gloopy” mixture goes and becomes food for plants, while Other” is flush with facts. down your esophagus and, 10 sec- “dirty water” is cleaned with “good “In One End and Out the Other,” by onds later, it enters your stomach, bacteria” that makes it safe to put Dr. Mike Goldsmith [14 pages, 2015, where it becomes something called back into rivers. $12.99]. “chyme.” Your stomach works the With a mix of words kids feel com- Terri Schlichenmeyer has been read- chyme, then sends it to your small fortable using, and real technical ing since she was 3 years old, and intestines, where nutrients are ab- and medical terms, Dr. Mike Gold- she never goes anywhere without a sorbed and, about seven hours later, smith explains what happens from book. She lives on a hill with two dogs it enters your large intestines, where mouth to months later, not only for and 12,000 books.

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Come and listen to the fantabu- treat she will offer a sneak peak of lous Mil’s Trills at the Gerritsen new numbers from her upcoming Mil’s Trills thrills Beach Library on Aug. 21. album “Now That We’re Friends,” Children are treated to a special with titles including “Say Hey,” and concert by Amelia Robinson, of Mil’s “Everybody’s Got a Buddy.” Trills, sharing her unique brand of Mil’s Trills, Aug. 21 at 2 pm. rock and roll on her electric uku- Free. lele. Her rocking band will take ev- Gerritsen Beach Public Library eryone on an expedition of music [2808 Gerritsen Ave. between Bartlett from around the world, including Place and Gotham Avenue in Ger- urban funk, blues, honkey tonk, ca- rtitsen Beach; (718) 368–1435; www. lypso and more. And as a special brooklynpubliclibrary.org]

58 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 Never miss a great event! Sign up for our FREE newsletter and get twice-a-week ideas for you and your family right in your mailbox. NYParenting.com Calendar Homestead, 452 Flatbush Ave. between Empire Boulevard and Eastern Submit a listing Parkway; (718) 789–2822; www. This calendar is dedicated to prospectpark.org; 2 to 5 pm; $3. bringing our readers the most Scrub that dirt right out of these comprehensive list of events in reproductions of 19th-century cloth- your area. But to do so, we need ing using tubs, washboards and a bar your help! of soap. Send your listing request to brooklyn[email protected] Mon, Aug. 3 — and we’ll take care of the rest. Please e-mail requests more In Brooklyn than three weeks prior to the Get Up & Go!: McCarren Park, 776 event to ensure we have enough Lorimer St. between Bayard Street and time to get it in. And best of all, Driggs Avenue; www.cityparksfoun- it’s FREE! dation.org/sports/kids-fitness; 10–11 am; Free. The City Park Foundation hosts “Get Sat, Aug. 1 Up & Go,” where instructors will help youngsters increase their core skills In Brooklyn such as running and throwing, as well Coffee Bark: Prospect Park Picnic as motivate them through contests, House, Prospect Park West and Fifth races, and obstacle courses. Street; www.prospectpark.org; 7 to 9 am; Free. Tues, Aug. 4 Bring the whole family — especially the pups. There will be goody bags for In Brooklyn our four-pawed friends, and informa- Summer Reading Storytime: tion tables. Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Granite Pros- pect, Old Fulton Street at Furman Animal Yoga: Brooklyn Children’s Street; (718) 222–9939; www.brook- Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. lynbridgepark.org; 10:30 am; Free. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; www.brooklynkids.org; 10:30 am; Listen to Brooklyn Heights librarians Free with admission. read stories from the Brooklyn Public Library’s reading list. Young yogis, what is your favorite animal? Explore movement as we stretch like a cat and go upside-down Wed, Aug. 5 for downward facing dog. In Brooklyn Soap making: Wyckoff Farmhouse Children’s concerts: Fort Greene Museum, 5816 Clarendon Road and Park Visitor Center, Enter park at Ralph Avenue; (718) 629–5400; www. Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park; nycgovparks.org; 1 pm to 3 pm; Free. (718) 722–3218; 10 am; Free. Older teens learn how to make soap What’s in the tunnel? Get on board and hop to it with Ho- using a combination of ingredients in- palong Andrew. cluding essential oils and a variety of Fantastic Tunnels is now New York City Transit system and herbs and flowers. Advance registra- boarding at the New York Tran- discover their secrets. Summer garden: Highland Park, tion required. sit Museum on Aug. 15, 16, 22, Fantastic Tunnels, Aug. 15, 16, Highland Blvd. and Vermont Place; and 23. 22 and 23 from 1:30 pm to 2:15 pm. www.nycgovparks.org; 2 pm to 4 pm; Time capsules: New York Transit Free. Museum, Boerum Place at Schermer- What do engineers do? Find Free with museum admission out in this super interesting work- New York Transit Museum Children 7 to 12 years old explore horn Street; (718) 694–1600; www. the gardens and connect with nature. mta.info/mta/museum; 1:30 pm to shop especially geared to chil- [Boerum Place at Schermerhorn 2:15 pm; Free with general admission. dren 5 years and older. Examine Street in Brooklyn Heights; (718) “The Hunger Games – Mocking- MTA employees unearthed a time the miles and miles of under- 694–1600; www.mta.info/mta/mu- jay, Part 1”: Prospect Park, north end of Long Meadow, Enter at Grand capsule buried in 1950. Now you can ground tunnels that make up the seum] record your 2015 journey and make a Army Plaza and Prospect Park West; 7 capsule of your own. For all ages. pm; Free. Movies under the stars in Prospect Ezra Jack Keats Story Hour: Drop by the computer lab and take Sun, Aug. 2 Park. Entertainment starts at 7 pm, Imagination Playground, Ocean Ave- control of a subway car. Great for chil- movie starts at sundown. For tweens nue and Lincoln Road; www.prospect- dren 10 and older. In Brooklyn and teens. park.org; 2 pm to 3 pm; Free. Pier Kids: Pier 6, Joralemon St. and “The Hunger Games – Mock- Gather around the statue of Peter Furman St.; (718) 802–0603; 11 am; ingjay, Part 1”: Irving Square Park, Thurs, Aug. 6 and Willie, two characters from Keats, Free. Halsey St. and Wilson Avenue; (212) and listen to a story read by Tammy Volunteers of Wildlife introduce kids In Brooklyn 639–9675; www.nycgovparks.org; Hall. to birds of prey. Get Up & Go!: Calvert Vaux Park, 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm; Free. Train operator school: New York Time capsules: 1:30 pm to 2:15 Calvert Vaux Park Greenway and Movies under the stars in Prospect Shore Parkway; www.cityparksfoun- Transit Museum, Boerum Place at pm. New York Transit Museum. See Park. Entertainment starts at 7 pm, dation.org/sports/kids-fitness; 10–11 Schermerhorn Street; (718) 694–1600; Saturday, Aug. 1. www.mta.info/mta/museum; 2 pm to movie starts at sundown. For tweens am; Free. 4 pm; Free with general admission. and teens. Washing day: Lefferts Historic Continued on page 60 August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 59 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 59 Summer reading: Pier 3 Greenway The City Park Foundation hosts “Get Terrace, Furman St. and Pierrepont St.; Up & Go,” where instructors will help (718) 514–7359; 10:30 am; Free. youngsters increase their core skills Enjoy a fun storytime with librarians such as running and throwing, as well from the Brooklyn Heights branch. as motivate them through contests, races and obstacle courses. Wed, Aug. 12 Get Up & Go!: Sternberg Park, Boerum Street between Lorimer and In Brooklyn Leonard streets; www.cityparksfoun- Hybrid Movement Company: dation.org/sports/kids-fitness; 12:30– Sunset Park Playground, Sixth Ave. 1:30 pm; Free. and 44th Street; www.cityparksfoun- The City Park Foundation hosts “Get dation.org; 10:30 am; Free. Up & Go,” where instructors will help Dance, acrobatic, and a visual arts youngsters increase their core skills troupe. such as running and throwing, as well Summer garden: 2 pm to 4 pm. as motivate them through contests, Highland Park. See Wednesday, Aug. races and obstacle courses. 5. Get Up & Go!: Seth Low Play- “Happy Feet”: Long Meadow ground, Bay Parkway at W. 12th North at Prospect Park, West Drive Street; www.cityparksfoundation.org/ and Prospect Park Southwest; (718) sports/kids-fitness; 12:30–1:30 pm; 802–3777; 7 pm to 11 pm; Free. Free. Grab a picnic basket and blanket The City Park Foundation hosts “Get Adventure on the pier and get ready for a movie under the Up & Go,” where instructors will help Pier Kids is a fun way to spend Socks Fun Time Band in for a con- stars. youngsters increase their core skills a Sunday on Aug. 2 and Aug. 9, at cert and activities. such as running and throwing, as well Brooklyn Bridge Park. Pier Kids, Aug. 2 and 9, at 11 as motivate them through contests, Thurs, Aug. 13 races and obstacle courses. On Aug. 2, Volunteers of Wild- am. Free. life brings birds of prey to the Pier 6 [Joralemon Street and In Brooklyn Sat, Aug. 8 park, and children can learn all Furman Street in Brooklyn Heights; Get Up & Go!: 10–11 am. Calvert about these fascinating hunters (718) 802–0603; www.brooklyn- Vaux Park. See Thursday, Aug. 6. In Brooklyn of the sky. Aug. 9 brings the Dirty bridgepark.org]. Get Up & Go!: 12:30–1:30 pm. Animal Yoga: 10:30 am. Brook- Sternberg Park. See Thursday, Aug. 6. lyn Children’s Museum. See Saturday, Get Up & Go!: 12:30–1:30 pm. Aug. 1. August, peaking around Aug. 9–13. chefs, including Frank Langello of Seth Low Playground. See Thursday, Babbo, Dan Drohan at Otto; Mario La New York Horses: New York Aug. 6. Transit Museum, Boerum Place at Sun, Aug. 9 Posta from Babbo Boston, John Katz Schermerhorn Street; (718) 694–1600; at Tarry Market; Andy Nusser of Tarry www.mta.info/mta/museum; 1:30 In Brooklyn Lodge and Anthony Sasso of Casa Sat, Aug. 15 Mono. Reservations and pre-purchase pm to 2:15 pm; Free with general Hip Tot Family Day: LeFrak Center In Brooklyn admission. at Lakeside, 171 E. Dr. at Ocean Av- tickets suggested. India day: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- Before trains there was the horse- enue; (718) 462–0010; www.lakeside- seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks drawn street car. Learn all about this brooklyn.com; 11 am; Free. Mon, Aug. 10 Avenue; (718) 735–4400; www. with a visit from the Kensington Sta- Family music group Rolie Polie Gua- brooklynkids.org; 10 am – 4:15 am; bles. For all ages. camole and Dog on Fleas featuring In Brooklyn Free with museum admission. Grammy-winning songwriter Dean Ezra Jack Keats Story Hour: 2 Get Up & Go!: 10–11 am. McCarren Jones perform a free lakeside concert Aug. 15 is India’s Independence pm to 3 pm. Imagination Playground. Park. See Monday, Aug. 3. at Prospect Park. Day. It’s a whole day of learning, danc- See Saturday, Aug. 1. “Mrs. Doubtfire”: Coney Island ing, and celebrating. Have your hand Pier Kids: Pier 6, Joralemon St. and Train operator school: 2 pm to 4 Beach, 1001 Boardwalk West at W. painted with henna; try your luck at Furman St.; (718) 802–0603; 11 am; 10th Street; (718) 594–7895; www. playing pachisi; make a Rahki bracelet pm. New York Transit Museum. See Free. Saturday, Aug. 1. coneyislandfunguide.com; 7:30 pm; to celebrate siblings and friends; hear Sing, dance and draw with Dirty Free. Indian instruments like the sitar and “Tales of Brier Rabbit”: S. Oxford Socks Fun Time Band and hands-on Grab a blanket and some popcorn tabla; sing songs in English, Bengali, Park, S. Oxford St. and Cumberland activities for children of all ages. and enjoy this family-friendly comedy and Hindi with Raga Kids; then learn Street; www.nycgovparks.org; 5 pm Time capsules: 1:30 pm to 2:15 starring Robin Williams and Sally Fields. Bhangra dancing from Ajna Dance to 6 pm; Free. pm. New York Transit Museum. See Company at a rooftop dance party fea- Presented by the City Park’s Foun- Saturday, Aug. 1. turing DJ Rekha. dation and the Puppet Mobile. Follow Tues, Aug. 11 Sand Sculpting Concert: Co- the tales of the feisty Brier Rabbit, who Further Afield In Brooklyn ney Island Boardwalk, Surf Ave. and is always getting into trouble. Part of Family dinners: New York Botani- W. 20th Street; www.eventbrite. SummerStage Kids. Tree care: Green space, 90 Kent cal Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. in Ave. a N. Eighth Street; www.nycgov- com/e/25th-anniversary-coney-island- Perseid Meteor Shower: Salt the Bronx; (718) 817–8700; www. parks.org; 10 am – noon; Free. sand-sculpting-contest; 11 am to 4 Marsh Nature Center, 3302 Avenue U; nybg.org/m/family-dinners.php; 5 pm pm; Free. Join with Human Impacts to help (718) 421–2021; 9 pm to 11 pm; Free. to 7:30 pm; $85 for adults ($35 for Experience one of Coney’s most care for local trees and green spaces. Urban Park Rangers guide you to children 2 to 12 and free for children popular event in this 25th annual sand Registration recommended. the solar system, discussing the sci- under 2). concert. Amateurs and semi-profes- ence, history, and folklore of the uni- Cooking demonstrations and din- Summer Reading Storytime: sional sculpting artists of all ages com- verse. This is one of the brighter me- ners celebrating the Edible Academy, 10:30 am. Brooklyn Bridge Park’s pete for prizes and bragging rights. teor showers of the year, occurs every and all prepared by Mario Batali’s Granite Prospect. See Tuesday, Aug. 4. And if you can’t sculpt you can cheer 60 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar your favorite artist on. Registration re- Train operator school: 2 pm to 4 quired for artists. Hosted by Astella pm. New York Transit Museum. See and Brooklyn Community Services. Saturday, Aug. 1. Fantastic tunnels: New York Further Afield Transit Museum, Boerum Place at “Al E Gator and Friends”: 11 am. Schermerhorn Street; (718) 694–1600; Goat on a Boat Puppet Theatre. See www.mta.info/mta/museum; 1:30 Friday, Aug. 21. pm to 2:15 pm; Free with general admission. What do engineers do? Find out Sun, Aug. 23 in this great workshop for children 5 In Brooklyn years and older. Field Day: Pier 5, Joralemon St. and Ezra Jack Keats Story Hour: 2 Furman St.; www.nycgovparks.org; 10 to 3 pm. Imagination Playground. See am – 2 pm; Free. Saturday, Aug. 1. Bring the whole family for fun games of basketball, soccer, bocce, Train operator school: 2 to 4 pm. handball, volleyball and more. New York Transit Museum. See Satur- day, Aug. 1. Fantastic tunnels: 1:30 pm to 2:15 pm. New York Transit Museum. See Camping: Prospect Park Picnic Saturday, Aug. 15. House, Prospect Park West and Fifth Street; www.prospectpark.org; 6 pm to 7 am; Free. Old-school family fun Wed, Aug. 26 Families enjoy the great outdoors It’s a fun family day at the to keep everyone busy through- In Brooklyn under the starts for a sleepover. Tents Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum on out the day. Summer garden: 2 pm to 4 pm. are provided, space is limited; chosen Aug. 29. Family Day, Aug. 29 from 11 am Highland Park. See Wednesday, Aug. by lottery. Get a tour of the house and to 3 pm. Free. 5. “Remember the Titans”: Jackie learn about games and activities Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum Movie Night: Brooklyn Botanic Gar- Robinson Playground, Marion St. and of by-gone times. [5816 Clarendon Rd. and Ralph Av- den, 1000 Washington Ave., at East- Patchen Ave.; (212) 234–9607; www. There will be scavenger hunts enue in Flatbush; (718) 629–5400; ern Parkway; (718) 623–7220; www. nycgovparks.org; 8:30 – 10:30 pm; a plenty and hands-on activities www.nycgovparks.org] bbg.org; 6 to 8:30 pm; Free with ad- Free. mission to the gardens. Tweens view a screening of this film Bring a picnic basket and enjoy a about a high school football coach and special screening of “The Goonies.” a difficult road. Tues, Aug. 18 Fri, Aug. 21 Night Sky: Fort Greene Park Visitor In Brooklyn In Brooklyn Fri, Aug. 28 Center, Enter park at Myrtle Avenue Mils Trills: Gerritsen Beach Public In Brooklyn and Washington Park; (718) 722– Summer Reading Storytime: Library, 2808 Gerritsen Ave. between 3218; 9 pm to 11 pm; Free. 10:30 am. Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Family camping: Marine Park, E. Granite Prospect. See Tuesday, Aug. 4. Bartlett Place and Gotham Avenue; 36th St. and Avenue U; (718) 421– Urban rangers take you on a jour- (718) 368–1435; www.brooklynpubli- ney through the stars discussing the 2021; nycgovparks.org; 7 pm to 7 am; clibrary.org; 2 pm; Free. Free. science, history, and folklore of the Wed, Aug. 19 Live in concert with her funky brand universe. Night Sky programs highlight Families enjoy the great outdoors of kids rock and roll is Amelia Robin- under the starts for a sleepover. Tents the history and folklore of the solar In Brooklyn son. Suitable for children 3 to 11 years are provided, space is limited; chosen system, using the naked eye to locate Summer garden: 2 pm to 4 pm. old. by lottery. stars and planets. Highland Park. See Wednesday, Aug. 5. Further Afield Sun, Aug. 16 “Al E Gator and Friends”: Goat Sat, Aug. 29 Double Dutch: Pier 2 Brooklyn on a Boat Puppet Theatre, 4 Hamp- In Brooklyn In Brooklyn Bridge Park, Furman St. and Pierre- ton St., Sag Habor, Staten Island; (631) Animal Yoga: 10:30 am. Brook- pont St.; www.nycgovparks.org; 7 pm 725–4193; www.goatonaboat.org; 11 Fantastic tunnels: 1:30 pm to 2:15 lyn Children’s Museum. See Saturday, pm. New York Transit Museum. See to 9 pm; Free. am; $8 $10, $12. Aug. 1. Saturday, Aug. 15. Learn to skip rope the double Dutch Children 2 to 8 years old will enjoy way. Open to all ages and abilities. For this marionette variety show. Family Day: Wyckoff Farmhouse Museum, 5816 Clarendon Road and Mon, Aug. 17 children 15 years old and up. Sat, Aug. 22 Ralph Avenue; (718) 629–5400; www. In Brooklyn nycgovparks.org; 11 am to 3 pm; Free. Thurs, Aug. 20 In Brooklyn Kid-friendly tours, hands-on activi- Get Up & Go!: 10–11 am. McCarren ties and scavenger hunts. Park. See Monday, Aug. 3. In Brooklyn Animal Yoga: 10:30 am. Brook- lyn Children’s Museum. See Saturday, The City of Tomorrow: New York Get Up & Go!: 10–11 am. Calvert “Guardians of the Galaxy”: Aug. 1. Transit Museum, Boerum Place at Coney Island Beach, 1001 Boardwalk Vaux Park. See Thursday, Aug. 6. Schermerhorn Street; (718) 694–1600; West at W. 10th Street; (718) 594– Fantastic tunnels: 1:30 pm to 2:15 www.mta.info/mta/museum; 1:30 Get Up & Go!: 12:30–1:30 pm. pm. New York Transit Museum. See 7895; www.coneyislandfunguide.com; Sternberg Park. See Thursday, Aug. 6. pm to 2:15 pm; Free with general 7:30 pm; Free. Saturday, Aug. 15. admission. Grab a blanket and a bucket of pop- Get Up & Go!: 12:30–1:30 pm. Ezra Jack Keats Story Hour: 2 Children take a journey into the fu- corn and enjoy Coney Island Flicks on Seth Low Playground. See Thursday, pm to 3 pm. Imagination Playground. ture and look at transportation and the Beach. Aug. 6. See Saturday, Aug. 1. Continued on page 62 August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 61 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 61 Sundays, 1 to 2 pm and 3 to 4 pm,; technology. For all ages. Free. Ezra Jack Keats Story Hour: 2 Families with children 15 and pm to 3 pm. Imagination Playground. younger learn about aquatic ecology, See Saturday, Aug. 1. fishing safety and collect their own bait. Train operator school: 2 pm to 4 Macy’s fishing clinics: Prospect pm. New York Transit Museum. See Park Audubon Center, Enter park at Saturday, Aug. 1. Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue; (718) Further Afield 287–3400; www.prospectpark.org/ audubon; Saturdays and Sundays, 1 Arthur Ashe Kids Day: USTA to 2 pm and 3 to 4 pm, Sat, Aug. 1 – Billie Jean King National Tennis Cen- Sun, Aug. 30; Free. ter, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Children under 15 years old learn Queens; (866) 673–6749 (OPEN- TIX); www.usopen.org; 9:30 am to 4 about aquatic ecology, fishing safety pm; $10 general admission ($25 loge and collect bait. tickets). Bird Watching: North end of Espla- Presented by Hess, the 29th an- nade, East Drive and Ocean Avenue; nual event includes live performances www.nycgovparks.org; Saturdays and from Rolling Stone “Artist You Need Sundays, 1 to 2 pm and 3 to 4 pm, be- to Know” Bea Miller, “hip-pop” duo ginning Sat, Aug. 1; Free. Kalin and Myles, Flo Rida protégé Nat- Families with children 15 and alie La Rose, MTV’s “Artist to Watch” younger join with a ranger and identify Jacob Whitesides and chart-topping the more than 250 species of birds in pop-rock act American Authors. Chil- the park. dren will enjoy a host of activities Needlework and games: Lefferts and meet with tennis champs Novak Game, set, match! Historic Homestead, 452 Flatbush Ave. Djokovic, Marin Cilic, and others for a The 29th annual Arthur Ashe schedule of tennis games geared between Empire Boulevard and East- day of tennis, music The annual event ern Parkway; (718) 789–2822; www. kicks-off the 2015 US Open, which Kids Day swings into the Billie toward kids, see an exhibition prospectpark.org; Saturdays and Sun- runs from Aug. 31 to Sept. 13. Jean King National Tennis Center match and skills competitions on Aug. 29. with Novak Djokovic and Marin days, 1–3 pm; $3. Presented by Hess, the event Cilic, and meet with the tennis Join in with staff and make a small Sun, Aug. 30 sampler and play board games. includes live performances from greats after. In Brooklyn Rolling Stone “Artist You Need to Arthur Ashe Kids Day on Aug. Sensory Room: Brooklyn Chil- The City of Tomorrow: 1:30 pm Know” Bea Miller, “hip-pop” duo 29 from 9:30 am to 4 pm. Tickets dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; to 2:15 pm. New York Transit Mu- Kalin and Myles, Flo Rida protégé are $10 for general admission and seum. See Saturday, Aug. 29. www.brooklynkids.org; Tuesdays and Natalie La Rose, MTV’s “Artist $25 for loge seating. Thursdays, 2 pm to 4:45 pm, Wednes- to Watch” Jacob Whitesides, and Billie Jean King National Tennis days and Fridays – Sundays, 2 pm to 4 Long-running chart-topping pop-rock act Amer- Center, Arthur Ashe Stadium (Flush- pm, Sat, Aug. 1 – Sun, Aug. 30; Free In Brooklyn ican Authors. ing Meadows Corona Park, www. with museum admission. An inclusive place where children of Grand Army Plaza Greenmar- Families can enjoy an exciting arthurashekidsday.com). all abilities can engage with peers and ket: Grand Army Plaza, Union Street explore their senses. between Flatbush Avenue and Pros- pect Park West; www.grownyc.org; ever wonder things like that? Then tions encourage families to explore na- Historic games: Lefferts Historic Saturdays, 8 am–4 pm; Free. you would make a terrific naturalist! A ture. For all ages. Homestead, 452 Flatbush Ave. be- Families can pick up fresh produce tween Empire Boulevard and Eastern naturalist observes plants, animals, and Totally tots: Brooklyn Children’s and artisinal items. other living things closely, asks ques- Parkway; (718) 789–2822; www. Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. prospectpark.org; Saturdays and Sun- tions, and tries to learn the answers. Pattern Wizardry: Brooklyn Chil- Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; days, 2 pm top 5 pm, Sat, Aug. 1 – dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at Kayaking: Brooklyn Bridge Park’s www.brooklynkids.org; Tuesdays Mon, Aug. 31; $3. St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; Granite Prospect, Old Fulton Street at – Sundays, 11:30 am, Sat, Aug. 1 Come relax in the shade and learn www.brooklynkids.org; Tuesdays Furman Street; (718) 222–9939; www. – Sun, Aug. 30; Free with museum how to play Nine Man Morris, then – Sundays, 10 am–5 pm, Now – brooklynbridgepark.org; Saturdays, 10 admission. make your own board to take home. Sun, Aug. 30; Free with museum am–3 pm, Now – Sat, Aug. 29; Free. Toddlers enjoy a new hands-on ex- admission. Bargemusic: Fulton Ferry Landing, Glide along the Brooklyn waterfront perience for our littlest learners! The new exhibit teaches the rel- Old Fulton Street and Furman Street; during free public kayaking. Children evance of patterns. Features hands-on “Jack and the Beanstalk”: Pup- (718) 624–2083; www.bargemusic. activities. under 18 must be accompanied by an petworks, 338 Sixth Ave. at Fourth org; Saturdays, 4 pm, Now – Sat, Sept. adult guardian. All levels welcome, no Street; (718) 965–3391; www.pup- 26; Free. The Art of Discovery: Brook- experience is necessary. petworks.org; Saturdays and Sundays, Walk across the planks for a family- lyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Washing- Family discovery weekends: 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm, Now – Sun, friendly concert. ton Ave., at Eastern Parkway; (718) Aug. 23; $9 ($10 adults). 623–7220; www.bbg.org; Tuesdays Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Wash- “A Midsummer Night’s The classic adventure comes to – Fridays, 8 am–6 pm, Saturdays, 10 ington Ave., at Eastern Parkway; (718) Dream”: Gallery Players, 199 14th am–6 pm, Sundays, 10 am–6 –m Now 623–7220; www.bbg.org; Saturdays life with puppets in this musical per- St. between Fourth and Fifth avenues; – Sun, Aug. 30; Free with admission to and Sundays, 10:30 am – 2:30 pm, formance based on old English folk (212) 352–3101; www.galleryplay- the gardens. Now – Sun, Aug. 23; Free with garden melodies. ers.com; Thursdays – Saturdays, 7:30 What do baby ladybugs look like? admission. Fishing Fun: North end of Espla- pm, Sundays, 3 pm, Now – Sun, Aug. Why don’t ferns have flowers? Why Experiment, learn and play together nade, East Drive and Ocean Avenue; 2; 18. are there pigeons everywhere? Do you in the Discovery Garden. Hands-on sta- www.nycgovparks.org; Saturdays and Gallery Players presents Shake- 62 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar speare’s play about fairy king Theseus’s tration is required online. feud with his queen Titania. Track and Field: Betsy Head Summer Safety: Jewish Children’s Playground, Strauss St. and Livonia Museum, 792 Eastern Pkwy. at Kings- Avenue; www.cityparksfoundation. ton Avenue; (718) 907–8833; www. org/2015-summer-; Mondays and jcm.museum; Sundays – Thursdays, 10 Wednesdays, 9:30 am – 10:30 am, am, Now – Mon, Aug. 31; $13 ($10 for Now – Wed, Aug. 12; Free. seniors). The City Parks Foundation is again Children learn about the rules of the hosting a track and field program for road at the Safety Road exhibit. Inter- the summer for the city’s school chil- active exhibits, with a crosswalk, traffic dren. Registration online required. For lights and a shopping strip. children 5 to 7 years old. Play Streets: Park, 61st St. between Track and Field: Betsy Head Fourth and Fifth avenues; www. Playground, Strauss St. and Livonia palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, Avenue; www.cityparksfoundation. Now – Fri, Aug. 21; Free. org/2015-summer-; Mondays and The Police Athletic League’s Sum- Wednesdays, 9:30 am – 10:30 am, mer Playstreets Program offers a safe Now – Wed, Aug. 12; Free. environment for youngsters to play The City Parks Foundation is again traditional sidewalk games, including hosting a track and field program for double Dutch jump rope, hopscotch, the summer for the city’s school chil- Nok Hockey, and basketball. dren. Registration online required. For children 8 to 16 years old. Play Streets: Coney Island Houses playground, 3030 Surf Ave. between Golf: Herbert Von King Park, Marcy W. 30th and W. 31st streets; www. Ave. and Greene Avenue; www.cit- palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, yparksfoundation.org/2015-summer-; Now – Fri, Aug. 21; Free. Sculptures of sand Mondays and Wednesdays, 9:30 am – The Police Athletic League’s Sum- 10:30 am, Now – Wed, Aug. 12; Free. mer Playstreets Program offers a safe Grab your pails, shovels, and Everyone has the chance to The City Parks Foundation is again environment for youngsters to play imagination — it’s the 25th an- turn sand into a towering mas- hosting golf lessons as part of its Sum- traditional sidewalk games, including nual Sand Sculpting Contest in terpiece. mer Sports program for the s city’s school children. Registration online re- double Dutch jump rope, hopscotch, Coney Island on Aug. 15. Preregistration required for all Nok Hockey, and basketball. quired. For children 9 to 16 years old. Sponsored by Astella Devel- entrants. Play Streets: Kelly Playground, Av- opment Corporation and Brook- Sand Sculpting Contest, Aug. Summer Sports: Sunset Park Play- enue S and East 15th Street; www. lyn Community Services, the 15 from 11 am to 4 pm. Free. ground, 44th St. between Fifth and palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, Seventh avenues; (718) 972–2135; Coney Island Boardwalk (Surf Av- Now – Fri, Aug. 21; Free. family-friendly event is open to [email protected]; The Police Athletic League’s Sum- amateurs and semi-professional enue and W. 20th Street in Coney www.nycgovparks.org; Weekdays, 10 mer Playstreets Program offers a safe sand sculpting artists of all ages Island; www.eventbrite.com/e/25th- am – 6 pm, Now – Fri, Sept. 4; Free. environment for youngsters to play competing for cash prizes and anniversary-coney-island-sand- Pitch, shoot and score with the traditional sidewalk games, including bragging rights. sculpting-contest). city’s new program. Each day you can double Dutch jump rope, hopscotch, take your pick of what activity meets Nok Hockey, and basketball. your fancy. Registration is required by e-mail. Play Streets: Fox Playground, East City Parks Foundation is again host- Filmore Ave. and Stuart Street; www. 52nd St. and Avenue H; www.palnyc. ing tennis lessons for children as part cityparksfoundation.org/2015-sum- Tennis in the Parks: Jackie Robin- org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, Now – of its Summer Sports program. Regis- mer-; Mondays and Wednesdays, 9 son Playground, Malcolm X Blvd. and Fri, Aug. 21; Free. tration is required online. am to noon, Now – Fri, Aug. 14; Free. Chauncey St.; www.cityparksfounda- City Parks Foundation is again host- tion.org/2015-summer-; Tuesdays and The Police Athletic League’s Sum- Tennis in the Parks: Kaiser Park, ing tennis lessons for children as part Thursdays, 9 am to noon, Now – Fri, mer Playstreets Program offers a safe Neptune Ave. and Bayview Avenue; of its Summer Sports program. Regis- Aug. 14; Free. environment for youngsters to play www.cityparksfoundation.org/2015- traditional sidewalk games, including tration is required online. City Parks Foundation is again host- summer-; Mondays and Wednesdays, ing tennis lessons for children as part double Dutch jump rope, hopscotch, Tennis in the Parks: McCarren 9 am to noon, Now – Fri, Aug. 14; of its Summer Sports program. Regis- Nok Hockey, and basketball. Park, N. 13th Street between Bedford Free. tration is required online. Play Streets: Alice Branch Family City Parks Foundation is again host- Ave. and Berry Street; www.cityparks- Shelter, 1040 East New York Avenue; ing tennis lessons for children as part foundation.org/2015-summer-; Mon- Tennis in the Parks: Leif Ericson www.palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 am to of its Summer Sports program. Regis- days and Wednesdays, 9 am to noon, Park, Eighth Ave. and 66th Street; 5 pm, Now – Fri, Aug. 21; Free. tration is required online. Now – Fri, Aug. 14; Free. www.cityparksfoundation.org/2015- The Police Athletic League’s Sum- City Parks Foundation is again host- summer-; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 mer Playstreets Program offers a safe Tennis in the Parks: Kelly Play- ing tennis lessons for children as part am to noon, Now – Fri, Aug. 14; Free. environment for youngsters to play ground, Avenue S and E. 14th Street; of its Summer Sports program. Regis- City Parks Foundation is again host- traditional sidewalk games, including www.cityparksfoundation.org/2015- tration is required online. ing tennis lessons for children as part summer-; Mondays and Wednesdays, of its Summer Sports program. Regis- double Dutch jump rope, hopscotch, Tennis in the Parks: McKinley Nok Hockey, and basketball. 9 am to noon, Now – Fri, Aug. 14; tration is required online. Free. Park, Seventh Ave. and 75th Street; Tennis in the Parks: Fort Greene www.cityparksfoundation.org/2015- Track and Field: Kaiser Park, Nep- City Parks Foundation is again host- Park Visitor Center, DeKalb Ave. and S. summer-; Mondays – Thursdays, 9 am tune Ave. and Bayview Avenue; www. ing tennis lessons for children as part Portland Avenue; www.cityparksfoun- to noon, Now – Fri, Aug. 14; Free. cityparksfoundation.org/2015-sum- of its Summer Sports program. Regis- dation.org/2015-summer-; Mondays City Parks Foundation is again host- mer-; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 tration is required online. and Wednesdays, 9 am to noon, Now ing tennis lessons for children as part am – 10:30 am, Now – Wed, Aug. 12; – Fri, Aug. 14; Free. Tennis in the Parks: Marine Park, of its Summer Sports program. Regis- Continued on page 64 August 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 63 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 63 Gotham Avenue; (718) 368–1435; Free. www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Fri- The City Parks Foundation is again days, 2 pm,; Free. hosting a track and field program for Kids receive a free book when they the summer for the city’s school chil- sign up, on their birthday, and every dren. Registration online required. For third week if they checkout two books children 5 to 7 years old. per week. Track and Field: Kaiser Park, Nep- Game On! Board Games: Sunset tune Ave. and Bayview Avenue; www. Park Public Library, 5108 Fourth Ave. cityparksfoundation.org/2015-sum- at 51st Street; (718) 965–6533; www. mer-; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Fridays, am – 10:30 am, Now – Wed, Aug. 12; 3:30–5 pm,; Free. Free. Kids play games such as Connect 4, The City Parks Foundation is again Uno, Clue, and Monopoly. hosting a track and field program for Tween Teen Tech Time: Sunset the summer for the city’s school chil- Park Public Library, 5108 Fourth Ave. dren. Registration online required. For at 51st Street; (718) 965–6533; www. children 8 to 16 years old. brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Fridays, Track and Field: Linden Park, Lin- 3:30–5 pm,; Free. den Blvd. and Vermont Street; www. Tweens and teens enjoy books, Nin- cityparksfoundation.org/2015-sum- tendo and Playstation videogames, mer-; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 and music, while participating in Read- am – 10:30 am, Now – Wed, Aug. 12; A ride under the sea ing is Fundamental. Free. Friday Night Fireworks: Coney The City Parks Foundation is again Take a ride beneath the sea in beautiful Tiffany and Company Island Boardwalk; Fridays, 9:30 pm, hosting a track and field program for the SeaGlass Carousel opening Foundation Woodland Gardens Now – Fri, Sept. 4; Free. the summer for the city’s school chil- on Aug. 20 at The Battery. before reaching the brand-new dren. Registration online required. For The new one-of-a-kind ride fea- attraction. Further Afield children 8 to 16 years old. tures a huge nautilus shell with 30 SeaGlass Carousel is open Science Playground: New York Golf: Marine Park, Ave. S and E. luminescent fish to give you the daily beginning Aug. 20, from 10 Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., 32nd Street; www.cityparksfounda- ride of your life. Unlike traditional am to 10 pm and costs $5 per Queens; (718) 699–0005 X 353; tion.org/2015-summer-; Tuesdays and carousels, this one has you sit- ride. Access to the Battery and www.nyscience.org; Weekdays, Thursdays, 9:30 am – 10:30 am, Now ting inside the fish instead of on gardens is free. 9:30 am–5 pm, Saturdays and Sun- – Wed, Aug. 12; Free. days, 10 am–6 pm,; $5 plus museum SeaGlass Carousel (The Battery The City Parks Foundation is again top — letting you glide through admission. hosting golf lessons as part of its Sum- the sights and sounds of a 360-de- at the Battery Park Underpass in Children are encouraged to explore mer Sports program for the s city’s gree aquatic adventure. Lower Manhattan; www.thebattery. science through slides, seesaws, climb- school children. Registration online re- Visitors walk through the org) ing webs, a water play area, sand quired. For children 6to 8 years old. boxes, and more, weather permitting. Golf: Marine Park, Ave. S and E. Rocket Park Mini Golf: New 32nd Street; www.cityparksfounda- Eastern Parkway; (718) 623–7220; Children enjoy Bird nerd games; nature York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th tion.org/2015-summer-; Tuesdays and www.bbg.org; Tuesdays, 1:30 pm to on the go and animal encounter. St., Queens; (718) 699–0005 X 353; Thursdays, 9:30 am – 10:30 am, Now 3 pm, Now – Tues, Aug. 25; Free with Free hours: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- www.nyscience.org; Saturdays and – Wed, Aug. 12; Free. garden admission. seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Sundays, 10 am–6 pm,; $6 (adults), $5 The City Parks Foundation is again Children 2 to 4 years old with a Avenue; (718) 735–4400; www. (children and seniors), plus museum hosting golf lessons as part of its Sum- caregiver plant a carrot seed, touch a brooklynkids.org; Thursdays, 2 pm to admission. mer Sports program for the s city’s wriggly worm and hear a story about 6 pm, Now – Thurs, Aug. 27; Free. Golfers of all ages can learn about school children. Registration online re- nature. The drop-in program is out- Children enjoy the museum free of key science concepts such as propul- quired. For children 9 to 16 years old. doors and is cancelled in inclement charge on Thursdays in the summer! sion, gravity, escape velocity, launch Tennis in the Parks: Bensonhurst weather. window, gravitational assist, and more! Playdate: South Brooklyn Children’s Park, Cropsey Ave. and Bay Parkway; Transit Tots: New York Transit Mu- Garden, 204 Columbia St. and Sack- Children’s Zoo: Bronx Zoo, 2300 www.cityparksfoundation.org/2015- seum, Boerum Place at Schermerhorn ette Street; www.nycgovparks.org.; Southern Blvd. at Boston Road, The summer-; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1 Street; (718) 694–1600; www.mta. Fridays, 9:30 am to 11:30 am, Now – Bronx; (718) 220–5103; www.bronx- pm to 4 pm, Now – Fri, Aug. 14; Free. info/mta/museum; Thursdays, 10:15 Fri, Sept. 4; Free. zoo.com; Daily, 10 am – 5 pm; Now – City Parks Foundation is again host- am, Now – Thurs, Oct. 1; Free with Fri, Oct. 30; $5 with Zoo Admission. ing tennis lessons for children as part general admission. The garden is open to all children 18 months to 5 years old to play in the The newly renovated area is open of its Summer Sports program. Regis- Educator Polly Desjarlais entertains sprinklers, water the plants, dig in the and features new species, new exhib- tration is required online. children with games, stories and fun. dirt and have a messy good time. its, and a domestic petting zoo. Chil- First Discoveries for Toddlers: For children 2 to 5 with an adult. dren of all ages enjoy learning about Toys, Games, and Puzzles: Ger- Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Wash- Nature Exploration: Prospect Park the giant anteaters, sloths and mini ritsen Beach Public Library, 2808 Ger- ington Ave., at Eastern Parkway; (718) Audubon Center, Enter park at Lincoln goats. ritsen Ave. between Bartlett Place and 623–7220; www.bbg.org; Tuesdays, Road and Ocean Avenue; (718) 287– SeaGlass Carousel: SeaGlass Car- Gotham Avenue; (718) 368–1435; 1:30–3 pm, Now – Tues, Aug. 25; Free 3400; www.prospectpark.org/audu- ousel, The Battery, Battery Park Un- www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Fri- with admission to the gardens. bon; Thursdays and Fridays, Noon–4 derpass, Manhattan; www.thebattery. days, 10:30 am–11:30 am,; Free. Toddlers 2 to 4 years old with care- pm, Now – Fri, Oct. 30; Free. org; Daily, 10 am to 10 pm; beginning Playtime for kids aged 0–5. givers plant a carrot seed, touch a wig- Join the Prospect Park Alliance for Thurs, Aug. 20; $5 per ride. gly worm and listen to a story. nature education programs at the Pros- Reading is Fundamental: Ger- A beautiful, huge crystal nautilus First discoveries: Brooklyn Botanic pect Park Audubon Center, the first ritsen Beach Public Library, 2808 Ger- shell with 30 grand luminescent fish, Garden, 1000 Washington Ave., at urban Audubon Center in the nation. ritsen Ave. between Bartlett Place and takes riders on an aquatic journey. 64 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015 theMarketplace

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August 2015 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 65 New & Noteworthy BY LISA J. CURTIS Splash safely Cracking the ‘Code’ As the long, hot days of summer On Aug. 2, a new board game beat down, the time is ripe for pool will be released that will assuage parties and trips to the beach! For parents’ fears that they aren’t times when parents are chatting and doing enough to help their kids attempting to supervise their kids, prepare for a career in a digital iSwimband can be an important world — Code Master. While Code assistant in helping maintain your Master is a single player game, it vigilance. This wearable, drowning can be enjoyed with a friend or detection sensor is 1.5-inches wide by a parent-and-child team and can be snapped into a rubber as they cheer each other on wristband for toddlers (or other non- to solve the puzzles and get swimmers) or snapped into a head- their avatar to the portal to- band for swimmers. gether. The iSwimband alerts a parent’s In packaging that evokes compatible Bluetooth device with Mojang’s beloved Minecraft a sound akin to a submarine dive video game, Code Master inven- alarm when a swimmer has been tor Mark Engelberg has assembled submerged too long or if a non- a board game that effortlessly in- instructions are encouraging, say- swimmer enters the water. We were troduces “while” loops, “if-then- ing it’s a simple matter of “debug- able to download the free app onto else” conditional branching, and ging your program,” so try again. our iPhone 4 and were impressed by more while the child (ideally age 8 Rewards are built into Code Mas- its streamlined, helpful instructions. or older) merrily puzzles out how ter: Every time the player reaches a The parent customizes the settings to help their adorably pixelated portal, he is elevated to the next for their child’s swimming abilities, avatar pick up power crystals and level, graduating from beginner, to or lack of ability, and how soon they ascend to the next level. intermediate, to advanced, and fi- want the alarm to sound if the sen- headband can also attach to goggles, The player unwittingly “writes” nally, to expert. There are 60 logic sor is submerged. making the it even less noticeable.) a program with his action tokens puzzles in the game to provide The sensor can monitor from up The manufacturer, Aquatic Safety by putting them in a sequence on hours of brain-teasing challenges. to 100 feet away — as long as the Concepts, says the sensor is not in- the guide scroll that directs the av- Code Master Programming Logic parent has an unobstructed view tended as a replacement for adult su- atar’s actions. He even learns from Game by Think Fun, $19.99, www. or path for the signal. We tested the pervision. And they report that the his mistakes; if it doesn’t work, the target.com. sensor in the wristband and also in iSwimband battery should last for the headband on kids playing in a hundreds of hours of splish-splash- pool and found both ways of wearing ing fun. the sensor to be effective. iSwimband drowning detection de- Ode to Calvin and Hobbes (For self-conscious tweens, the vice, $59.99, iSwimband.com. Set your kids’ sails for an adven- strips, “Dragon and Captain” (Flash- ture with “Dragon and Captain,” the light Press) is a graphic novel that debut picture book from P.R. Alla- moves between illustrations of real Summer style ‘Bee’ blooming bach. It’s a rollicking celebration of life and the active imaginations of summer days and unleashed imagi- the two boys who transform into the Sunflowers evoke graphic on the front of nations that will especially delight dragon and captain. Captain’s boat is happy memories of the dress is joined by readers ages 4–8. Like Bill Watter- missing and the lighthearted, kinetic summer and sun- an embroidered bee, son’s Calvin and Hobbes comic illustrations by Lucas Turnbloom de- shine, so it’s under- and the sleeves are pict the two friends’ thrilling journey standable that the capped with flutter- to find the ship and infiltrate a band new watercolor-style ing wings of raw-edge of pirates in order to recapture it. print on the organic fabric. In the imaginations of Dragon and cotton dress from The sunflower Captain, a pocket watch becomes a Burt’s Bees Baby dress set, which compass and a paper towel tube be- would be utterly irre- comes in sizes new- comes a telescope. It’s a reminder sistible. The dress comes born, 0–3 months, 3–6 that children don’t need lots of stuff with a matching diaper months, 6–9 months, to be entertained during their vaca- cover and features con- and 12 months, is a tion days; they need unstructured trasting, orchid-colored sweet, eco-conscious time, imagination, and a friend. sleeves and trim around the snap-clo- gift for a baby girl. “Dragon and Captain” book by sure collar. Just as the Helianthus at- Sunflower Dress Set by Burt’s Bees P.R. Allabach, $17.95, www.barne- tracts bees, butterflies, and birds, the Baby, $22.95, BurtsBeesBaby.com. sandnoble.com. 66 BROOKLYN Family • August 2015

The NCE CIE at the Cosmic Cove! S

CARMELO F E L LO W

• After School Classes The Cosmic Cove for more info: • Birthday Parties 300 Atlantic Ave 718.722.0000 718.344.4631 • Science Summer Camps Brooklyn, NY 11201 • Trips www.carmelothesciencefellow.com • Toddler Classes • Science Play group

Teaching kids about themselves, about others, the world, and about 11 Wyckoff Street the environment, through hands-on Brooklyn, NY 11201 inquiry based science. for more info: 347-844-9699 For Ages 2.5 to 5 years old 718-344-4631