August 2016 Queens FREE Family Where Every Child Matters It’s still summer! Plan it all with our calendar

Preparing for Kindergarten

Teaching your children about mindful eating

A fun social media detox

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Features columns 6 Nurturing nature’s gifts 14 Just Write Mom Encouraging your children to embrace by Danielle Sullivan science and the arts By Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman 18 Dear Dr. Karyn By Dr. Karyn Gordon 8 Teaching children about 26 Tips for Feeding Kids 12 mindful eating By Joanna DeVita A therapist’s new book offers help for families struggling with weight issues 27 Behavior & Beyond By Allison Plitt By Dr. Marcie Beigel 10 Taking it offline 34 New & Noteworthy New game encourages social media detox By Lisa J. Curtis By Laura Varoscak-DeInnocentiis 12 Preparing for kindergarten calendar A teacher’s advice for the big day By Alexa Bigwarfe 28 August Events 20 Coming up Rosie O’Donnell’s program gives theater-loving special sections kids a brighter future By Tammy Scileppi 16 Education Directory 33 Party Planners 22 Fitbit to be tied A device that tracks all my fitness activity? No thanks! By Lisa A. Beach 24 An online minefield How to help your kids, tweens, and teens safely navigate social media By Lisa Beach 46

August 2016 • queens Family 3 letter from the publisher

Summer in the city ummer fun is hap- building one of the many families are taking advan- if you want to have an even greater pening all around most beautiful and in- tage of our beautiful facilities and expanded look around town for S New York. The tricate sand castles I wonderful lawns. One doesn’t even happenings beyond your own bor- beaches have been re- had ever seen. Then have to see it, usually you can smell ough, log onto to our website, NY- ally friendly this year there are the boogie the aroma of grilling going on. Parenting.com, click on the calen- with great weather boarders and even re- New York City is wonderful in dar, and also sign up for our news- overall. Not too hot and ally young surfers. By the summer. With lots of families letters on the homepage. steamy, but just hot the way, what’s really going in and out of town on vaca- Have a great August and happy enough to make being changed is the num- tions and many of the kids away Labor Day, too! at the beach simply de- ber of adults who have at sleep away camps, most of the licious. The beach is gotten into the joys of neighborhoods are less crowded, Thanks for reading. great for everyone in the family, but boogie boarding. It’s not just kids and if you have a car, it’s a lot especially for kids. It’s, after all, a anymore, which makes trying to easier to park and get around. Pub- really big sandbox, and what kid swim or take a dip sometimes fairly lic transit is lighter, too, and that doesn’t love the sandbox? hazardous. makes everyone happier who takes I was out at the beach last week- It’s been a great summer for pic- it on a daily basis. But watch out for end as usual and was marveling nicking in the park and if one walks the cyclists. They are everywhere. Susan Weiss-Voskidis, at the amount of work and tal- or drives by our parks on any week- Our calendar is full of wonderful Publisher/Excutive Editor ent some of the kids had put into end, you can see for yourself how ideas for you and your family, and [email protected]

Community News Group Contact information ceo: Les Goodstein advertising: Web or Print address President & Publisher: Jennifer Goodstein (718) 260-4554 New York Parenting Media/CNG [email protected] 1 Metrotech Center North 10th Floor New York parenting circulation Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 260-8336 Publisher / executive editor: [email protected] Susan Weiss Publisher / business Manager: editorial www.NYParenting.com Clifford Luster (718) 260-4554 [email protected] oPerations associate: Tina Felicetti calendar sales rePs: Alexis Benson, Erin Brof, (718) 260-2523 Jay Pelc, Stephanie Stellacio art director: Leah Mitch Web designer: Sylvan Migdal The acceptance of advertising by New York Parent- New York Parenting has been recognized for ing does not constitute an endorsement of the editorial and design excellence by PMA. graPhic designers: Arthur Arutyunov, products, services or information being advertised. New York Parenting is published monthly by New Daria Avvento, Gardy Charles, Yvonne Farley, We do not knowingly present any products or ser- York Parenting Media/CNG. Subscription rate is Earl Ferrer, John Napoli vices that are fraudu lent or misleading in nature. $35 annually. Reproduction of New York Parent- Editorial inquiries, calendar information, advertising ing Media in whole or part without written per- rates and schedules and subscription requests may be mission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights Managing editor: Vince DiMiceli addressed to New York Parenting, One Metro tech reserved. Copyright©2016 Readership: 185,000. Center North, 10th Floor, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. 2015 circulation audits by CVC. assistant editor: Courtney Donahue New York Parenting can also be reached by calling coPy editors: Lisa J. Curtis, (718) 260-4554, emailing [email protected] or Shavana Abruzzo by visiting our website, NYParenting.com. calendar editor: Joanna Del Buono Join the conversation on Facebook. 4 queens Family • August 2016 Pappas Pediatric Dentistry

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August 2016 • queens Family 5 science. They are born to create, to want to express and communicate their experience — art. From the beginning, infants use all of their senses to figure out what things are and how they work. Nurturing When they do begin to talk, they start naming things. Their earliest attempts at conversation are filled with questions — what, how, and why. They replicate sounds and hum. Their bodies move rhythmi- cally. Give a child a pencil, and he nature’s gifts will draw. Provide music, and he will sing and dance. Listen, and By Carolyn WaterBury- are a body full of potential. Within he will tell you a story. That every Encouraging tieman that miniature body, cradled in our human culture has art and science arms, exists the potential for ev- is not surprising. What is surpris- your children ooking into a newborn’s eyes, erything he will ever become. ing is how rapidly the artist and there is something ancient, Whether or not that potential scientist is socialized out of our to embrace L yet completely innocent in is fully realized is primarily in our children. his gaze. A hint of the divine lurks hands. We take our young budding art- within the depths of those lim- Like all of nature, our children are ist and scientist and say, “I can’t science and pid pools. While utterly dependent exquisite works of art and science. look at that right now. I’m too upon us for their survival, they ap- As members of the human race, their busy.” “I’m doing something. Be the arts pear to have forgotten more than legacy is to become both scientists quiet.” “Sit still.” “Don’t touch we will ever know. Like the energy and artists. They are born to wonder, that.” “Don’t make a mess.” “Stop stored in an object at rest, they to want to understand and explain — asking so many questions.” We put

6 queens Family • August 2016 sential and prerequisite to the practice of any other science or As parents, we are art — conscience. Just as biol- responsible for making ogy is the knowledge of living When your little angel things, conscience is the knowl- sure our children edge of the difference between right and wrong. The dictionary thinks he’s a daredevil... develop a healthy defines conscience as knowledge of one’s guilt. I prefer to think conscience, and setting of conscience as recognizing the a good example is implications of one’s choices. Conscience should not just kick the best teacher. in after a poor choice has been made. A healthy conscience is proactive and serves as a guide a screen in front of them to keep when faced with challenging de- them occupied, so we can get cisions. back to our important work. Like all sciences, conscience is By the time children start learned. It is learned by our chil- school, science has become a dren at our knees and elbows, in dreaded subject that seems un- the back seats of our vehicles, related to their existence. Art and in our homes. It is learned has become something they can- by observing as well as listen- not do, are not good at, or are ing because “while they may not not supposed to like because of listen to everything we say, they their gender. They have learned are watching everything we do.” to doubt or mistrust the artist They are taking note of whether and scientist within. Then we the actions match the words. entice them with contests and Conscience reminds us that just trophies to get them enthusiastic because we can do something, about things for which they had a doesn’t mean we should. natural affinity. As parents, we are responsible How ironic that our children, for making sure our children de- as living experiments moving velop a healthy conscience, and around in a veritable natural lab- setting a good example is the Better have a good pediatrician. oratory with science constantly best teacher. When our children Make sure your kids are covered.covered. going on inside and around witness us using our perceptive them, are convinced science is skills and demonstrating empa- something that is only relevant thy toward others in our deci- to people called scientists. How sion-making and actions, they unfortunate that they become in- learn how to exercise conscience. Contact Affinity Health Plan hibited by the social definitions When we express appreciation of art and the evaluative pro- for their conscientious choices at 866.247.5678 to obtain more cess, considering themselves un- and institute related, reasonable qualified to create a masterpiece consequences for their failures information about Child Health Plus, on their life’s canvas, assuming to do so, we help strengthen their someone called an artist can do conscience. a free or low-cost health insurance it better. Jiminy Cricket told Pinocchio, In our efforts to arbitrarily as- “Conscience is that still small program sponsored by New York sign monetary value, we have voice that people won’t listen treated art and science as mutu- to.” We must make sure our chil- State for kids under the age of 19. ally exclusive rather than inex- dren not only hear and recognize tricably connected. There is the that still small voice, but that anatomy, chemistry, and physics they listen to it. Practicing con- To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY State of Health, The Official of visual art. The physics of mu- science in art and science, in life, Health Plan Marketplace, visit nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 855.355.5777. sical sound. The anatomy of sing- significantly increases the likeli- ing. The psychology of literature hood that our children will make and theatre. worthwhile contributions to the There is no inherent value of world as they seek to fulfill their one over the other. Each is en- potential. hanced by an understanding of Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman is a resi- and appreciation for the other. dent of Lexington, Ky. She has been Together they make us the unique married for 29 years and has two sons. creatures we are. Together they She spent 15 years in various agencies allow us, unlike any other crea- and clinics as a family therapist and ture on Earth, to understand, parent educator and has written ex- create, and assign meaning to tensively on the topic of parenting. To AffinityPlan.org/CHP our existence. contact her, please e-mail parent4life@ There is a science that is es- yahoo.com.

August 2016 • queens Family 7 Teaching children about mindful eating

By Allison Plitt because, “Diets don’t work,” says A therapist’s Maidenberg, “Ninety-five percent o you have a child with a of dieters regain their lost weight new book weight problem and wish in one to five years … Encourag- D you could do something to ing dieting can undermine parents’ offers help help him? Are you upset watching intent and actually contribute to an your child deal with this difficult increased risk of obesity.” problem alone and feel you have Instead, she advocates “a consis- for families failed him as a parent? Psycho- tent practice of healthy eating and therapist Dr. Michelle Maidenberg exercise [that] will making long- struggling with has written just the book to assist term, incremental changes. The you with this dilemma — “Free goal for any child is to promote weight issues Your Child from Overeating: 53 diet-free living and mindful eating Mind-Body Strategies for Lifelong with all foods eaten in modera- Health.” tion.” As of 2010, more than one-third of the children and adolescents Working together in this country were overweight The second part of the book or obese. It is a serious national details how the family can collab- health issue, since overweight or oratively work together to help the Matt Carr obese children are 10 times more Dr. Michelle Maidenberg. overweight child and even them- likely to become overweight or selves. Most often, an overweight obese adults. And food manufac- child usually has an overweight turers know how to lure kids to opposed to mindlessly eating a bag parent, so the author has the par- eat unhealthy food; kids are now of potato chips in front of the tele- ents write about their behavior eating five to six times more sugar vision. Maidenberg wants the child and attitude towards food. Even if than the three teaspoons a day rec- to experience and savor the food’s the family has another child with- ommended by the American Heart flavor, and share his thoughts and out a weight problem, Maidenberg Association. feelings with his parents. Mindful- advises treating both children the ness stops impulsive behavior, and same in regards to mealtimes and Mindful eating lets parents help their child navi- eating. The book, written for children gate his emotions. The more frequently parents 10 to 18 years old, is broken down The child is asked to write in the made comments to their children into three parts. In the first part of book about his mindful-eating ex- about their weight, the more nega- the book, Maidenberg introduces perience. Then, he should assess tively the children felt about their the concept of “mindful eating” to his values in life, such as family, bodies. Family members should kids. She explains, “One popular friendship, compassion, and integ- never tease their child about being definition of mindfulness is paying rity. Once a child establishes his overweight, nor should they weigh attention in a particular way, on core beliefs, he can begin to formu- their child or bribe him to lose purpose, in the present moment, late an idea about how he is going weight. and nonjudgmentally.” to change his lifestyle to eat more In addition to buying healthier She suggests parents talk to nutritiously and exercise. foods, parents may decide not to their child about mindful eating, as This book is not about dieting, buy “trigger foods” that cause their

8 queens Family • August 2016 child to overeat. If parents do choose to bring trigger foods Research shows into the home, they should not that when the Teaching children about have them easily accessible in the kitchen. family attempts Research shows that when the family attempts weight weight loss loss and healthier lifestyles to- gether, children are more suc- and healthier cessful at losing weight. When families eat meals together, lifestyles together, kids tend to eat healthier and children are more are less likely to be over- mindful eating weight. successful at Parents shouldn’t label food as “junk” or “bad” food. losing weight. By Allison Plitt because, “Diets don’t work,” says Sometimes the overweight A therapist’s Maidenberg, “Ninety-five percent child will steal or hide food o you have a child with a of dieters regain their lost weight to avoid being seen eating it. ers should also learn to as- new book weight problem and wish in one to five years … Encourag- If there is shame associated sert themselves in restaurants D you could do something to ing dieting can undermine parents’ with eating a specific food, or other situations when they offers help help him? Are you upset watching intent and actually contribute to an it is more likely the child need to ask for healthier food your child deal with this difficult increased risk of obesity.” will try not to be seen eat- alternatives. problem alone and feel you have Instead, she advocates “a consis- ing it, and may overdo it. Parents are encouraged to for families failed him as a parent? Psycho- tent practice of healthy eating and Besides following a use empowering words when therapist Dr. Michelle Maidenberg exercise [that] will making long- healthier eating plan, chil- discussing their child’s health, struggling with has written just the book to assist term, incremental changes. The dren should adopt an exer- such as “fit,” “strong,” and “ac- you with this dilemma — “Free goal for any child is to promote cise routine. Many studies tive.” Parents should encourage weight issues Your Child from Overeating: 53 diet-free living and mindful eating have found a direct cor- their children to love their bod- Mind-Body Strategies for Lifelong with all foods eaten in modera- relation between screen ies regardless of their weight, as Health.” tion.” time and kids being over- humans are all different shapes As of 2010, more than one-third weight and obese. and sizes. Parents should also of the children and adolescents Working together Family meals should stand up for their child if they are in this country were overweight The second part of the book be screen-free and fam- being bullied at school because of or obese. It is a serious national details how the family can collab- ily members should their weight. health issue, since overweight or oratively work together to help the

Matt Carr commit to no more than “The prevalence of weight dis- obese children are 10 times more Dr. Michelle Maidenberg. overweight child and even them- two hours of screen crimination has significantly in- likely to become overweight or selves. Most often, an overweight time per day. Studies creased in recent decades and is obese adults. And food manufac- child usually has an overweight have also shown that comparable to the rates of racial turers know how to lure kids to opposed to mindlessly eating a bag parent, so the author has the par- exercise has numerous discrimination. Weight is the main eat unhealthy food; kids are now of potato chips in front of the tele- ents write about their behavior benefits. For example, it enhances reason for teasing and bullying at eating five to six times more sugar vision. Maidenberg wants the child and attitude towards food. Even if academic performance, improves Sticking to it school,” Maidenberg writes. Chil- than the three teaspoons a day rec- to experience and savor the food’s the family has another child with- mood, promotes better sleep, and Teenagers are at the age where tunity and enhances your child’s dren should have access to health- ommended by the American Heart flavor, and share his thoughts and out a weight problem, Maidenberg increases energy. they want to be independent, but self-awareness and ability to prob- ful foods at school and should also Association. feelings with his parents. Mindful- advises treating both children the If you never discuss your child’s they actually need parental support lem solve. [He] is practicing working receive some type of nutritional edu- ness stops impulsive behavior, and same in regards to mealtimes and weight problem, you could be seen more than ever because of their “rag- through challenging situations to get cation. Mindful eating lets parents help their child navi- eating. as ignoring it, even though you may ing hormones and impulsive behav- back to her values of healthful liv- The most important lesson of all The book, written for children gate his emotions. The more frequently parents be thinking about it. And one study ior,” the author says. The last part ing,” Maidenberg writes. The author is for children to learn that hard 10 to 18 years old, is broken down The child is asked to write in the made comments to their children showed that how you talk about it of the book discusses how parents leaves space in the book for when a work provides positive feedback. into three parts. In the first part of book about his mindful-eating ex- about their weight, the more nega- matters. According to the study, if can help their child if they slip by child makes a mistake, he can write “The person who sticks it out — the book, Maidenberg introduces perience. Then, he should assess tively the children felt about their parents engage in weight-related binging. Kids can have self-defeating down his thoughts and feelings, and who decides to stay with it despite the concept of “mindful eating” to his values in life, such as family, bodies. Family members should conversations, those children were thoughts, and parents can talk them how he intends to resolve the di- any setbacks, frustrations, and dis- kids. She explains, “One popular friendship, compassion, and integ- never tease their child about being more likely to diet, use unhealthy through these ideas, so they can re- lemma. appointments — is left feeling confi- definition of mindfulness is paying rity. Once a child establishes his overweight, nor should they weigh weight-control measures, and binge sume their improved lifestyles. The family must support the child dent and proud, recognizing that the attention in a particular way, on core beliefs, he can begin to formu- their child or bribe him to lose eat. But, when the parents dis- Teenagers should learn that no and his needs — whether it means result is worth all the effort!” Maid- purpose, in the present moment, late an idea about how he is going weight. cussed healthful eating behaviors, one is perfect. And if they binge, they calling a restaurant ahead of time enberg concludes. and nonjudgmentally.” to change his lifestyle to eat more In addition to buying healthier the adolescents were less likely should try to get back on track as to find out the menu or accompa- Allison Plitt is a frequent contributor She suggests parents talk to nutritiously and exercise. foods, parents may decide not to to diet and use unhealthy weight- soon as possible. nying their child on a walk around to NY Parenting and lives in Queens with their child about mindful eating, as This book is not about dieting, buy “trigger foods” that cause their control behaviors. “Every slip is a learning oppor- the neighborhood. These teenag- her 10-year-old daughter.

August 2016 • queens Family 9 “Free Me: The Game” creators Jose Pablo Cantillo and Jeff Levine. Photo by Robert Chong Taking it offline By Laura Varoscak- indiscretion, and both men acknowl- They can only bear to abstain New game DeInnocentIIs edge their excessive use of popular for a couple of days, but this newly technology platforms, despite their found freedom opened their eyes to encourages t all started with a father taking a efforts to keep it at a minimum, espe- the constant addictive pull of social peek at his 9-year-old daughter’s cially around their families. networking sites around them. They I open diary: “My Dad is always They also understand the dam- stop to watch a mother in a play- social media on his phone every min. of every sec- age social networking sites cause by ground. She holds coffee in one hand ond, it is so annoying, he can’t even creating a false sense of connection and her cellphone in the other. While detox look at anything besides his phone. I that fools people into believing they simultaneously texting and convers- wish he could just play with me.” are more connected than ever be- ing on speakerphone, she kicks her Jeff Levine, (a.k.a. “annoying dad”) fore. They realize that being on their baby back and forth on the swing! rushes off to catch an early flight phones for “every minute of every This image perfectly illustrates the to New York, but he cannot escape second” encourages those around ridiculous lengths people will go to the sting of his child’s words. On the them to do the same. feed their insatiable social media ap- plane, he joins his close friend and Comedians at heart, Jeff and Jose petite. business partner Jose Pablo Cantillo also poke fun at the extremes of The trip becomes the impetus for (best known for his acting roles on social media mania. By the time the a brilliant idea: a new, groundbreak- “The Walking Dead” and “Sons of plane lands, they challenge each ing card game that aims to change Anarchy”) who immediately senses other to live without their digital de- the way people view their online something is wrong. Jeff confesses his vices for as long as possible. identities. Jeff and Jose brainstorm 10 queens Family • August 2016 Each card depicts a funny scenario that illustrates how ridiculous and out of hand social media postings can get. on their flight back from New York the bride had her phone in hand to Los Angeles. Inspired by their and frantically began posting. An- heightened awareness, they apply noyed, the groom asked her to put their sharp wit and dedication the phone away, but she refused. to family to create “Free Me: The An argument ensued, and the Game,” which emerged after 11 groom walked out on his bride. A months of development. few days later, he filed for divorce. Designed with teenagers and After playing “Free Me,” I young adults in mind, players from strongly support the game’s mis- all walks of life are enjoying this sion. Everyone who participates entertaining card game. Its goal is enjoys spending meaningful of- to bring people together to form fline time with family and friends. authentic connections through The game does have an ingenious laughter. Finding humor in social hook: It ends with the loser post- media creates a feeling of camara- ing penalty tasks to their real so- derie, which cannot be duplicated cial media pages. Even if younger through a screen. generations miss the satire behind In this fast-paced card game, the the game, at least they will spend first person to lose all friends and less time online and become more followers is the winner. The first mindful of what they post on social and most important rule is to put media sites. away all cellphones and electronic As a writer, educator, psychol- devices. There are different catego- ogy student, and mother, I appre- ries of cards that you can give, take, ciate this game on many different or swap with other players. Dare levels. The intelligence behind its cards challenge players to perform design will raise awareness about silly tasks in front of the group. If a the social media epidemic in our phone card is selected, players en- country and serve as an enticing gage in “hashtag battles.” alternative to digital devices as Each card depicts a funny sce- the primary means of relating to nario that illustrates how ridicu- others. The game also supports lous and out of hand social media the serious problem of cyber-bully- postings can get. One card shows a ing by donating $1 of every online man standing in front of a machine purchase to anti-bullying organiza- in his underwear. A bright orange tions. liquid squirts out, splattering his “Free Me: The Game” has much Promo Code: 161053 • Expires: 6/30/17 face. The caption reads: “Spray tan to offer the millions of people who malfunction ruins your selfie photo remain isolated from the outside session.” world and disconnected from Another card displays a couple face-to-face human interaction. sitting at a romantic dinner table. Although the development and Both of them stare at their phones growth of social media are amaz- with smiles on their faces. The ing technological achievements card reads, “You post how great with many benefits, their overuse your date is going. Your date does is tearing apart the precious gift the same. You haven’t actually spo- that created them in the first place: ken.” This absence of intimacy in a joining of hearts and minds. today’s culture is exactly what the Laura Varoscak-DeInnocentiis is a game aims to highlight. teacher, freelance writer, and mom liv- The card in the last example ing in Brooklyn. She is an award-win- reminds me of a recent news story ning contributor to New York Parenting about a couple who just got mar- and a member of the Parenting Media ried. As they entered the reception Association, and she has a master’s for the first time as man and wife, degree in clinical psychology.

August 2016 • queens Family 11 and it is very encouraging for the stu- dents if you remain calm and upbeat. The children are able to sense when a parent is stressed or sad. Preparing for Can you recommend any good books that can help prepare mom and dad for the first week? The best children’s book I know is “The Night Before Kindergarten.” Otherwise, I think books for parents would vary depending on the kind kindergarten of child. what are some great ideas if par- By AlexA BigwArfe what are the most important things ents want to bring in a gift for the A teacher’s a parent can do to prepare her child teacher the first week? he summer has passed by for kindergarten? The biggest gift is having support advice for more quickly than you Before school begins, you could and knowing that you have parents T thought, and now you may be visit the school and take a tour — to help you. But for the parents who panicking because you are sending visit the important places: kinder- aren’t able to help out in class, I the big day a child to kindergarten. Is he ready? garten hall, cafeteria, etc. Practice know they like to show their support Are you ready? Kindergarten is one getting in and out of car seats, so and love other ways. So for me, the of the largest milestones in a young that the car line will be less stressful worst part of preparing for my day is child’s life, and you want to ensure when starting your day, or visit the making lunch. When a parent offers you and your child transition bus stop and talk about the proce- to bring me lunch that is a wonderful smoothly. dures for riding a bus. gift. Coffee is great, too! Kindergarten teacher Have your child practice writ- As far as a present, I can’t speak Summers McBride ing his name with a pencil. Practice for all teachers, but things we can graciously answered counting objects and counting aloud. use in the classroom are very help- some questions about And most importantly, read books ful: pens, stationery, tissues, Clorox preparing for the big daily and ask questions as you read wipes, hand soap, etc. start to school. She of- the books. There are simple things fers important insight you can do to help develop pre- Any other tips or pointers for moms and suggestions reading skills while reading together and dads? for making the — point to each word on the page as Just try not to worry, and if you jump to kinder- you read, have your child point to have any questions, thoughts, or con- garten: the words as you read, ask him how cerns, feel free to talk to your child’s many words are on a page. teacher. I am huge on communica- tion and being on the same page with where do you see parents putting a parents, so that things are kept con- lot of unnecessary effort? sistent for children. Having great com- I think we are all guilty of this, but munication helps everyone involved. worrying too much about things that Other tips for once the school don’t truly matter — things like hav- year starts: ing to have the perfect outfits, shoes, Bring a snack when you pick your hairstyles, lunch boxes, and sparkly child up from school. Many of the school supplies. kindergartners eat lunch very early, Additionally, do not panic if your so by the end of the day, they are children do not know their letters, very hungry. numbers, or are not reading. Chil- Be prepared for homework. Yes, dren will be assessed prior to school in kindergarten. Many schools give and placed appropriately. There is daily homework, even to the kinder- a large variation in skill level for gartners. children entering school for the first Plan for rest time. School is going year, but by the end of the year, your to wear them out. Especially those child will be caught up to where he children who have never been in an needs to be to enter first grade. all-day program or are still used to taking a nap. Do you have any advice or tips for a Good luck as you begin this very first-time kindergarten parent? exciting and sometimes scary ad- Trust and talk with your child’s venture into education. Remember teacher often. We love your children these tips and try to enjoy it! just like they are our own, and we Alexa Bigwarfe is the mother of three truly want the best for each and young children and a freelance writer. every child in our classroom. She writes about her experiences as a Keep the morning goodbye short, mother and is particularly familiar with sweet, and positive. Some students this topic as she prepares her middle are very anxious the first few days, child for kindergarten in the fall.

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Astro Turf Field PARENTING The Pokémon wave ummer 2016 just got even more eventful with the new Poké- S mon GO App. And if you have a child, teen, or even young adult, you know what I’m talking about. My old- est and my youngest have been hap- pily spending hours walking the city in search of Pokémon. The new app JUST WRITE lets each user become a trainer and through his phone’s navigation sys- MOM tem and camera, shows him exactly DANIELLE SULLIVAN where the creatures are hiding, so he can go catch them all. It also locates the PokéStops in your vicinity, which are center locations where users can gain helpful accessories, and Poké- mon Gyms, where users can battle other Pokémon. The game shows you real-life pho- tos of key places, such as landmarks and businesses in your neighbor- hood, and tells you to go to them to collect more. Yesterday, my son and daughter went to the local playground after seeing that the sprinkler area was a gym. When they got there, they saw people of all ages gathered with It was nothing but fun. Later on, when pursuing a Pokémon, and veer- their Pokémon music blaring from Mike got into the Gameboy games ing into the street, or walking into a their phones, trying desperately to and had to have the Pokémon Yellow high-crime neighborhood because acquire accessories while also grab- and then Pokémon Gold and Silver to a PokéStops exists there, but with a bing that longed-for Eevee (a rare catch the creatures on his Gameboy. little common sense and awareness, Pokémon species). Pokémon had become the dominant the game can be loads of fun. The day before, as my son and I subject of many days back then, and It will surely bring customers to were on the train crossing the Man- birthday and Christmas gifts were many businesses, as users seem to hattan Bridge, the app located a live easy — they were always a game, gather wherever the Pokémon are. Pokémon in the train car that he console, pack of cards, T-shirt, or ac- I’m seeing big marketing bucks for could potentially catch. cessory of some sort. the creators here. Already, stores The first time I tuned into the I even remember rewriting the are putting up signs letting custom- Pokémon craze was in the late ’90s popular 1999 Macy Gray song, “I ers know that they are a stop. On an- when my nephew, Mike, would col- Try” to be a Pokémon song, “I try to other positive note, it also gets kids lect the cards. He introduced my say goodbye to Machoke, try to walk walking all over. If the kids are young daughter Amanda to it, although at away from my Squirtle, though I try enough, it gets parents walking with five years his senior, she didn’t quite to hide it, it’s clear, my world crum- them, so the fitness component is a have the training abilities that he bles when Pokémon’s not here.” Hey, double win. possessed. Mike was the most dedi- it made the kids laugh. I would have never thought that cated 10-year-old trainer you could I thought the allure had finally nearly 20 years later, I’d still be think- ever find. died down until my kids downloaded ing about Pokémon, but the saying He’d keep every card in a plastic the app a couple of days ago, and “whatever is old becomes new again” wrap, and buy scrapbooks in which it seems like everyone — adults in- sticks around for a reason. So if you he carefully organized each card ac- cluded — are hunting Pokémon. Now see a group of kids or adults gath- cording to its Pokémon group (water, they are hunting in groups and tak- ered around making gestures and air, or land). The fun back then was ing pics of the creatures, then Insta- posing for photos with things that that you never knew which cards gramming the photos, which show aren’t really there, rest assured … would be in a pack, so every time the Pokémon on the bus or in the car, and then watch out, because there you purchased a pack for just a or in my case, on my head in a Lower just might be a Pikachu behind you! couple of bucks, it was like buying East Side Starbucks. Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, is a lottery ticket. I remember those As a mom (and a worrier), I can a writer and editor living in New York walks home from the store with him see the potential pitfalls, such as City. Sullivan also writes about pets and screaming, “I got a Charizard!” not watching where you are going parenting for Disney’s Babble.com.

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Special Advertising Section August 2016 • queens Family 17 Parenting Helping your kids get through divorce

Dear Dr. Karyn, navigate this tough time. Here are one on one; they need to know that I am currently going through a pain- three tips to consider: you are close by during this difficult ful divorce, and my kids are really time. They may be angry, frustrated, Dear struggling. We were in a toxic relation- Filter what you say distant, or aggressive, and blaming ship, but now my kids are really suffer- Be sure to filter what you are say- one parent more than another. Ex- Dr. Karyn ing. I realize this is a loaded question, ing not only to your kids, but also pect a wide range of emotions and Dr. Karyn GorDon but are there any suggestions you when your kids are around. (They validate their feelings. (Don’t ratio- could give to parents in this type of often overhear the late-night phone nalize your behavior or the deci- situation? calls if you’re discussing your ex.) The sion to divorce.) Listen, listen, and golden rule is to say something posi- listen some more (yes, I intentionally recently did a segment for a na- tive, neutral, or nothing at all! When wrote “listen” three times), and allow tional television show on helping children hear negative comments (di- them to experience the huge range I kids through divorce with the rectly or indirectly), they often feel of emotions they face. Divorce is simple dos and don’ts for parents. that they need to choose sides, and like a type of death — in fact, many Divorce is rarely easy or straightfor- this often creates an enormous bur- people experience the same cycle ward — every family’s situation is den that is unfair and unhealthy. of emotions as if a person has died unique. And yet, I’ve seen firsthand Also be sure to filter what you say (shock, anger, sadness, acceptance, — while working with hundreds of when talking directly to your kids. forgiveness). Give them time to ex- families — that how parents deal When a parent makes comments perience and grieve this. with the divorce greatly impacts such as “You are so much like your how “healthy” or “damaged” the father,” but at another time says, “I Surround yourself with kids end up. Many kids (includ- can’t stand your father,” your child supportive friends ing teens and young adults) don’t may interpret that you can’t stand Many children mirror the emo- know how to voice their needs to him. It confuses him! tions of their parents, so the sooner their parents, so I often become Just remember to honor your you can work on getting yourself the spokesperson to the parents, partner (even if you disagree on healthy and happy again, the better! providing practical tips for how to many things) in his or her absence. To do so, make a list of the people in your life that can be on your sup- Focus on your kids portive team (friends, family, coun- It’s important to put extra focus selor), but definitely do not put your and energy on connecting and en- kids on that team. gaging your kids during this time! Kids (including teens but also This can often be tough for par- young adults) should never be the ents going through divorce, because counselor or go-to person for their many tell me they feel like they are parent. Yes, they can help in sup- falling apart and have nothing left porting you when you are strug- inside to give. gling, but they should never have to My encouragement is to try your feel the burden of being the person best (and get your own support, as you are relying on — it’s too big and I list below). Your kids are losing the heavy for them. One of the most family “that they know,” and it is a damaging things a divorced parent very big deal for them. Even though can do is to unload to their kids. divorce is extremely common, it’s a Be intentional to get help from your new experience for your children, adult supportive team, so you can and it’s important to not minimize return to emotional health and be a their experience, and to recognize better parent to your kids. the pain it may cause them. When Dr. Karyn Gordon is one of North talking with your kids be sure to America’s leading relationship and par- emphasize: enting experts. She is a regular contribu- • T h a t they still have two parents tor to “Good Morning America,” founder that love them. of dk Leadership, and best-selling au- • T h a t the divorce is not their thor of “Dr. Karyn’s Guide To The Teen fault. (It is never the fault of any Years” (Harper Collins). Visit her at child.) www.dkleadership.org and on Twitter: Be sure to spend time with them @DrKarynGordon.

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August 2016 • queens Family 19 Coming up Rosie By Tammy Scileppi All of the above still holds true O’Donnell’s today. Tomorrow’s rising stars are parking lifelong appreciation expected to train hard and aim high program gives for the arts with classes in for their personal best and to strive S dance, singing, and acting, for excellence, especially if they’re Rosie’s Theater Kids — created by chosen as Rosie’s Theater Kids, theater-loving actor-comedian Rosie O’Donnell — where the code word is achieve- provides city youngsters with cre- ment — not only in the performing kids a brighter ative opportunities. Its fun, triple- arts, but in school as well. threat approach to learning has The staff and industry profes- future shaped the lives of 60,000 boys and sionals are there to help students girls since the organization’s start develop and hone their creative tal- back in 2003. And now, two child- ents, but the programs take learn- hood friends from Hell’s Kitchen ing a step further, with life-prepping are celebrating the scholarships re- guidance along the way. cently awarded to them by Rosie’s After all, the road to stardom can Theater Kids, which has given them get rocky, and finding your inner Photo by Rosalie O’Connor thousands more reasons to sing and Hamilton or Nicki Minaj doesn’t Rosie O’Donnell (with Broadway star dance for joy. come easy for anyone. Kristin Chenoweth) loves the theater. In a challenging, sometimes cut- The color yellow throat world, a hefty dose of self-es- At one time, funny, big-hearted ing my core, formerly frozen and teem and confidence-boosting makes O’Donnell was considered brash uninhabitable … They got yellow all the difference, and all kids and and controversial. But since she left from me, and I felt yellow giving it teens benefit from knowing that the her talk show, she has been leading to them, and it was all good … So, people around them believe in them a quieter life and doing “ordinary” why am I leaving my show? It took and support their chosen path. things, like raising her children and my yellow. I wanted it back. Without That’s especially true for Rosie’s posting family stuff on her Facebook it, I can’t live. The gray kills me.” Theater Kids, who deal with diffi- page. And her two loves — kids and So, when she dreamt up the cool- cult challenges. Some have grown theater — seem to be keeping the est kids’ theater program in town up in the housing developments or busy mom out of trouble. while sitting at her kitchen table, you have families impacted by crime. Every kid has a dream, and par- can bet she had probably imagined ents like O’Donnell understand that a warm yellow. Sharing Broadway A triple threat if that dream isn’t channeled prop- and the performing arts with local Rosie’s one-of-a-kind programs erly, and if it isn’t nurtured and cel- kids became her calling. Like many focus on academics, nutrition, and ebrated, chances are, it will eventu- of her program’s students, O’Donnell art, and the staff works hard to pro- ally fade to gray. came from humble beginnings and vide an exciting, well-rounded the- So, when she launched Rosie’s knew what it was like to have that ater education. Theater Kids, offering performing- burning-in-your-belly desire to be- Last year, Rosie’s Theater Kids’ arts classes as well as free Broad- come something more. Her mother, ACTE II Program received the Na- way shows to fourth graders at- who died when O’Donnell was 10, tional Arts and Humanities Youth tending PS 51 — located near the introduced her to the theater. And Program Award, the nation’s highest city’s theater district and filled with her beloved former teacher, Pat Mar- honor for out-of-school arts and hu- many students whose families can’t avel, helped her heal and find her manities youth programs. Perform- afford tickets to the shows, the voice, so O’Donnell named the pro- ing to loud applause for First Lady kids’ lives were changed forever. gram’s home on Manhattan’s West Michelle Obama at the White House, O’Donnell realized the irony in the 45th Street the Maravel Arts Center 12 students accepted this honor. situation and said it was, “Like liv- in her memory. In 2014, the program was awarded ing in Hawaii, and never having ac- a $500,000 grant to establish the cess to the beach.” Well-rounded kids rule SAM Scholarship for Scholastic and The comedian’s favorite color is In the old days, to get into show Artistic Merit, an ongoing scholar- sunshine yellow, which she prefers biz you had to know how to carry ship program that provides gradu- to the limelight. In her book, “Celeb- a tune, dance (and tap dance) your ates with full scholarships of gap rity Detox,” she writes, “Fame stole heart out, take elocution lessons, funding (the amount of money that is my yellow. Yellow is the color you and learn how to project your voice owed once scholarships, grants, and get when you’re real and brutally to the audience. But most of all, you parent contributions are accounted honest. Yellow is with my kids … had to have personality and a win- for) to the college of their choice. The bundle of bright yellow warm- ning smile. Whatever is left (generally loan

20 queens Family • August 2016 abilities to win it, but it’s because ev- eryone in my class is so deserving,” said Karen. “It’s truly an honor to win such an amazing scholarship.” Karen said her mom was waiting by the door when she told her she Coming up Rosie had won $50,000. They hugged and started tearing up. She then told her By Tammy Scileppi All of the above still holds true dad, and they both hugged her. O’Donnell’s today. Tomorrow’s rising stars are “My younger sister started yell- parking lifelong appreciation expected to train hard and aim high ing in excitement,” she recalled. “I program gives for the arts with classes in for their personal best and to strive had never seen my family so happy, S dance, singing, and acting, for excellence, especially if they’re but something that I will never for- theater-loving Rosie’s Theater Kids — created by chosen as Rosie’s Theater Kids, get from that night is when my dad actor-comedian Rosie O’Donnell — where the code word is achieve- told me, ‘Karen, this is the best gift provides city youngsters with cre- ment — not only in the performing I have ever received in my 46 years kids a brighter ative opportunities. Its fun, triple- arts, but in school as well. of life.’ ” threat approach to learning has The staff and industry profes- Karen has been looking at New future shaped the lives of 60,000 boys and sionals are there to help students York colleges, like State University of girls since the organization’s start develop and hone their creative tal- New York Purchase and others. She back in 2003. And now, two child- ents, but the programs take learn- hasn’t started applying yet, because hood friends from Hell’s Kitchen ing a step further, with life-prepping she just finished her junior year at are celebrating the scholarships re- guidance along the way. Talent Unlimited High School, but cently awarded to them by Rosie’s After all, the road to stardom can may major in communications or Theater Kids, which has given them get rocky, and finding your inner Photo by Rosalie O’Connor look into bachelor of fine arts pro- thousands more reasons to sing and Hamilton or Nicki Minaj doesn’t Rosie O’Donnell (with Broadway star grams in acting. dance for joy. come easy for anyone. Kristin Chenoweth) loves the theater. Karen enjoys the theater scene In a challenging, sometimes cut- and said she recently saw the plays The color yellow throat world, a hefty dose of self-es- “The Humans” and “The Father” on At one time, funny, big-hearted ing my core, formerly frozen and teem and confidence-boosting makes Broadway, and performances by the O’Donnell was considered brash uninhabitable … They got yellow all the difference, and all kids and Photo by Rosalie O’Connor Jessica Lang Dance Company and and controversial. But since she left from me, and I felt yellow giving it teens benefit from knowing that the Karen Herrera and Kathy Gaweda celebrate their scholarship wins thanks to Rosie’s Theater Kids. SteeleDance Company. her talk show, she has been leading to them, and it was all good … So, people around them believe in them “I’ve really been wanting to see a quieter life and doing “ordinary” why am I leaving my show? It took and support their chosen path. amounts) need not be taken, and ence is something I will never forget. gala with Rosie’s, I realized that I had ‘Dear Evan Hansen,’ ‘The Curious In- things, like raising her children and my yellow. I wanted it back. Without That’s especially true for Rosie’s the scholarship will pay for that. The When I got home and told my mom, so much fun when I was performing cident of the Dog in the Night-Time,’ posting family stuff on her Facebook it, I can’t live. The gray kills me.” Theater Kids, who deal with diffi- funds will be used to cover tuition, she was super excited as well. We that from then on it held a special ‘Fiddler on the Roof,’ ‘The Color Pur- page. And her two loves — kids and So, when she dreamt up the cool- cult challenges. Some have grown room and board, books, and other cried happy tears together.” place in my heart.” ple,’ and of course, ‘Hamilton,’ which theater — seem to be keeping the est kids’ theater program in town up in the housing developments or necessary items that come with the Kathy, who attends the Profes- Although her interests include is on everyone’s must-see list.” busy mom out of trouble. while sitting at her kitchen table, you have families impacted by crime. cost of higher education. sional Performing Arts School in photography, writing, humanities, Earlier this year, she saw Deaf Every kid has a dream, and par- can bet she had probably imagined Manhattan, as a musical theater and women’s studies, Kathy plans West’s production of “Spring Awak- ents like O’Donnell understand that a warm yellow. Sharing Broadway A triple threat Kathy and Karen major, said she is looking at small on entering freshman year with an ening,” and recalled being brought if that dream isn’t channeled prop- and the performing arts with local Rosie’s one-of-a-kind programs win big liberal arts colleges not too far from open mind, taking whatever classes to tears as the songs came to life erly, and if it isn’t nurtured and cel- kids became her calling. Like many focus on academics, nutrition, and For the first time in Rosie’s The- New York so she can stay close to interest her, then choosing an aca- through American Sign Language. ebrated, chances are, it will eventu- of her program’s students, O’Donnell art, and the staff works hard to pro- ater Kids’ history, two city students her parents. Her top choices are demic path later on. Her fave theater actors, singers, ally fade to gray. came from humble beginnings and vide an exciting, well-rounded the- were selected to receive this schol- probably Brown and Vassar. Like many New Yorkers, she needs and dancers include Jonathan Groff, So, when she launched Rosie’s knew what it was like to have that ater education. arship. When Katarzyna (Kathy) “We’re going to start applying in her culture fix every now and then. Frank Langella, Misty Copeland, Lin- Theater Kids, offering performing- burning-in-your-belly desire to be- Last year, Rosie’s Theater Kids’ Gaweda, 16, garnered a much-de- the fall, so we can get teacher rec- “I recently saw ‘Dear Evan Han- Manuel Miranda, Beth Malone, Audra arts classes as well as free Broad- come something more. Her mother, ACTE II Program received the Na- served $100,000 scholarship from ommendations and write our essays. sen’ at Second Stage Theatre and it McDonald, and so many others. way shows to fourth graders at- who died when O’Donnell was 10, tional Arts and Humanities Youth Rosie’s Theater Kids, she said she Rosie’s helps the seniors so much was absolutely incredible! I loved Rosie’s Theater Kids has lifted the tending PS 51 — located near the introduced her to the theater. And Program Award, the nation’s highest couldn’t imagine a greater feeling — with the college application process, the music and the story so much, curtain on an exciting world of pos- city’s theater district and filled with her beloved former teacher, Pat Mar- honor for out-of-school arts and hu- until her best friend, Karen Herrera, which is a huge comfort to us and to and since it’s moving to Broadway, sibilities for Karen. many students whose families can’t avel, helped her heal and find her manities youth programs. Perform- also 16, was called up moments later our parents,” she said. I’m hoping to see it again. I’m also “[It] has changed my life com- afford tickets to the shows, the voice, so O’Donnell named the pro- ing to loud applause for First Lady to accept a $50,000 scholarship at Thanks to Rosie’s Theater Kids desperate to see ‘Hamilton’ (but who pletely,” she said. “Without this pro- kids’ lives were changed forever. gram’s home on Manhattan’s West Michelle Obama at the White House, the annual spring benefit. and their scholarships, both girls isn’t?), as well as ‘Waitress’ and ‘The gram, I would have no idea what O’Donnell realized the irony in the 45th Street the Maravel Arts Center 12 students accepted this honor. Both girls are former PS 51 stu- have applied to colleges they would Color Purple,’ ” she said. I would be doing now. I am truly situation and said it was, “Like liv- in her memory. In 2014, the program was awarded dents. Kathy and Karen were in- never have even dreamed of apply- As the daughter of two Mexican grateful for the investments made in ing in Hawaii, and never having ac- a $500,000 grant to establish the troduced to the program during a ing to before. immigrants, Karen also grew up me and will forever be thankful to be cess to the beach.” Well-rounded kids rule SAM Scholarship for Scholastic and school visit in the fourth grade. “Rosie’s is one of the most accept- in modest circumstances. She at- a part of such an amazing program The comedian’s favorite color is In the old days, to get into show Artistic Merit, an ongoing scholar- “I was so incredibly excited. I ing and loving communities I’ve ever tributes her strong work ethic to that gives children the opportunities sunshine yellow, which she prefers biz you had to know how to carry ship program that provides gradu- started crying out of happiness, and been a part of. Every member of the her mother, a home keeper, and her to succeed and excel in life.” to the limelight. In her book, “Celeb- a tune, dance (and tap dance) your ates with full scholarships of gap when Karen’s name was announced, staff genuinely cares so much for father, a bike messenger. And she For more, visit www.rosiestheaterkids. rity Detox,” she writes, “Fame stole heart out, take elocution lessons, funding (the amount of money that is the tears just kept coming,” said each student and the students are credits her sister Kiara, who is deaf, org. my yellow. Yellow is the color you and learn how to project your voice owed once scholarships, grants, and Kathy, the daughter of Polish immi- always there for each other. As the as one of the reasons she has such Tammy Scileppi is a Queens-based get when you’re real and brutally to the audience. But most of all, you parent contributions are accounted grants. “We’ve shared experiences students get older, they became car- appreciation for musical theater. freelance writer and journalist, parent, honest. Yellow is with my kids … had to have personality and a win- for) to the college of their choice. since first grade and to be able to ing for and helping the youngest stu- “I honestly had no idea I was going and regular contributor to New York The bundle of bright yellow warm- ning smile. Whatever is left (generally loan share such a life-changing experi- dents,” Kathy said. “During my first to win. It’s not that I doubted my Parenting.

August 2016 • queens Family 21 ARE YOU ARE YOU KIDDING? KIDDING?

ONLY ONLY 415? 415? 415 415

Fitbit to be tied A device that tracks all my fitness activity? No thanks!

By Lisa a. Beach ing it a top-seller that (supposedly) What kind of monster am I? fits every lifestyle. And yet, I was ready to be apping into the latest trend, That is, every lifestyle but branded with a scarlet letter as I my well-intentioned hus- mine. returned my Fitbit to Sports Au- T band recently bought me a I practically hung my head in un- thority (that my husband scored Fitbit, one of those omnipotent grateful shame as I returned his gift, at a 20 percent discount, no less!). fitness-tracker wristbands that because isn’t it all about the thought I’m probably the only person in the works with your smartphone. The that counts? What does this say world who’s jumping off the Fitbit Fitbit monitors your every move about me if I returned a gift, not be- bandwagon. (literally) with a built-in navigation cause it didn’t fit or it is the wrong Why? system and loads of features, mak- color, but because I just didn’t like it? For starters, I’m just not into

22 queens Family • August 2016 • I don’t need a Fitbit to moni- tor my water intake. When I can To get the most feel the cotton in my mouth, I Kimmy Ma out of my Fitbit, know it’s time to take a drink. • I don’t need a Fitbit to tell me ARTStudio I need to wear it I was restless 35 times last night. I looked at the clock 14 times “Launch Creative Minds” all the time, even during the night, feel exhausted Enroll Now!! when I’m sleeping, in the morning, and can see the dark circles under my eyes, so Fall Session begins 9/9. shackling me like an I’m well aware I had a crappy night’s sleep. Art for Beginners: I’m-on-house-arrest • I don’t need a device that’s ARE YOU ARE YOU waterproof up to 10 meters, given (K-3rd) Mon. 4-5:30; Sun. 9:15-10:45; 3-4:30 • (3rd-MS) Sun.11-12:40 ankle bracelet. Who my penchant for never going (Age 7 & up) Illustrations & Comics: Sun. 1-2:30 KIDDING? KIDDING? scuba diving. Fine Art with ability level instructions: needs that judgment • I don’t need a Fitbit to vibrate T/W/Th 3:30-5:30 (age 9-MS) every hour to tell me I’ve been all day long? inactive for too long. When I feel Skill assertive learners (MS/HS): my derriere going numb from sit- Fri 4-6:30 & Sat 9:15-11:45 & Sat 12:15-2:45 ting at the computer too long, I exercise. I mean, I occasionally know it’s time to get moving. Lead curriculum designer: walk and do yoga, but only be- And then there’s the whole Mrs. Kimmy Ma, cause I know I should. And I’ve guilt factor. On days when I think given up trying to master the I’ve been fairly active, I check Master of Art in the School of Education, NYU, with a creative “Dance Off the Inches Hip Hop my Fitbit only to discover that I team of qualifi ed art instructors. ONLY ONLY Party” DVD I bought a few years racked up an unimpressive 415 ago, foolishly thinking I could steps today, and it’s already 3 For curriculum & 16-wk art calendar, 415 415 do complex choreography “so pm. This sets off a mini-rage, as www.kimmyma-ARTStudio.com simple anyone can do it.” Well, I yell at my wrist monitor, “Why thanks for making me feel like are you silently judging me? Who 646-209-9352 415? 415? an idiot, girl-on-the-cover-with- are you to tell me I’m below my 190-19 Union TPK, Fresh Meadow, NY 11366 rock-hard-abs. When Fit Blonde goal today?” Girl instructs her hip-hop wan- On top of all this, I’m always https://www.facebook.com/kimmyartstudio/ nabees to “pop it,” the only thing just a few steps behind what’s that pops (and cracks) is my ar- trending.  thritic hip. Case in point — “Breaking And I do try to incorporate Bad” was three seasons old be- movement into my daily life. I fore I even heard about it. And kick butt in word games, throw I just read a fashion article that $OO.LGV&DQ/HDUQ a fit when my teen mouths off to pantyhose are coming back in, me, run daily errands, jump to which made me wonder, when conclusions, and dance around were they out? So it feels a bit 6LQFH uncomfortable conversations. premature for me to jump on the These activities don’t really burn Fitbit bandwagon just yet. Tutoring & Test Prep Services many calories, but, at least I’m I’m also not what marketing • Experienced NYS certified teachers • Aligned to the new Common Core not totally sedentary. experts would could an “early • Top ten IVY LEAGUE tutors • Guaranteed grade improvement But the fitness tracker is a adopter.” I don’t upgrade my cell- little too Big Brother for me, with phone every year. I have zero After School Academy Weekend Academy my every movement being moni- desire for an Apple Watch. I don’t Center Opens 3pm to 6:30pm Saturday & Sunday 9:15am to 12pm tored 24-seven. To get the most want a drone. • Shooting Star (G3-6) • Test Prep (SAT/SHSAT/HunTer) out of my Fitbit, I need to wear it And, after great resistance, I (for Children who Demonstrate • nyS elA/Writing/Math all the time, even when I’m sleep- finally forced myself to get on Advanced Cognitive Ability, & • Chinese Class Fitbit to be tied ing, shackling me like an I’m-on- Twitter now that it’s almost 10 Passion for Learning) Free placement tests 8/27/16 & 9/2/16 house-arrest ankle bracelet. It years old. I’m always late to the • Test Prep For Current Grades 6 & 8 just dangles on my wrist all day, trend party by choice. (ShSAt/hunter/Regents) A device that tracks all my fitness activity? No thanks! recording every arm swing as I Now, if my husband can find • Writing Workshop walk or reach for another glass me a Witbit to monitor my sar- (hunter Essay/NyS ELA) By Lisa a. Beach ing it a top-seller that (supposedly) What kind of monster am I? of wine. Who needs that judg- casm, I’d be all over that. But a • Homework & Beyond fits every lifestyle. And yet, I was ready to be ment all day long? Fitbit? Thanks, but I’m good. (Custom-tailored tutoring) apping into the latest trend, That is, every lifestyle but branded with a scarlet letter as I I feel like I should be wowed Lisa Beach is a freelance writer, • Chinese Class (Beginner, my well-intentioned hus- mine. returned my Fitbit to Sports Au- by this “wonder product” chock- blogger, humorist, and recovering ho- Intermediate & Advanced) T band recently bought me a I practically hung my head in un- thority (that my husband scored full of features that track not meschool mom who lived to write Early registration and Fitbit, one of those omnipotent grateful shame as I returned his gift, at a 20 percent discount, no less!). only your exercise, but also your about it. Check out her writer’s web- sibling discount available. fitness-tracker wristbands that because isn’t it all about the thought I’m probably the only person in the sleep patterns, your water con- site at www.LisaBeachWrites.com and works with your smartphone. The that counts? What does this say world who’s jumping off the Fitbit sumption, your calories, and visit www.TweeniorMoments.com, Call Ms. Wendy, M.S. Ed. • 718-664-7408 Fitbit monitors your every move about me if I returned a gift, not be- bandwagon. your heart rate. Beach’s humor blog about mid-life, For more information please log into www.Allkidscanlearn.net (literally) with a built-in navigation cause it didn’t fit or it is the wrong Why? High-tech features for a low- family, friends, and all the baggage system and loads of features, mak- color, but because I just didn’t like it? For starters, I’m just not into tech girl: that goes with it. 96-19 69 Avenue, Forest Hills, NY 11375

August 2016 • queens Family 23 An online minefield How to help By Lisa Beach hink before you post. your kids, It se e m s l i ke com mon se n se , T but a lot of kids, tweens, and teens just aren’t heeding this advice tweens, and when they use social media — and are getting themselves into trouble in the process. teens safely Just ask attorney James Muel- ler, a managing partner with Verner navigate Brumley McCurley Mueller Parker, a Dallas-based family law firm. “Some of the things kids put on- social media line [are] going to affect them, be- tional Behavior and Health cause it doesn’t go away,” says Muel- Therapist, agrees. ler. “It will follow them in life.” “In laying down the As a family lawyer, Mueller sees rules, especially for this at first hand. younger kids, it’s im- “In one custody hearing, a daugh- portant to give kids ter gave the judge all these reasons the logic behind the why she didn’t want to live with rule and provide ex- mom. We found out that, when we amples that dem- checked the girl’s Instagram ac- onstrate the bad things that could your action, you can’t control other count, she didn’t want to live with happen,” says Dr. Gluckman, who people’s actions.” mom, because dad allowed her to advises a collaborative approach, Realize what you post is perma- smoke marijuana and drink while at asking kids what kind of rules they nent — even if you later delete it. dad’s house,” recalls Mueller. “The could live with and then negotiate. Once you hit send, you create a per- next thing you know, she’s kicked off “When you’re a nurturing — rather manent cyber-record of your words her sports team, the judge has now than authoritative — parent, you’re and images delivered via status up- seen all of this, and dad is in trouble. educating and empowering kids, dates or news feeds. Someone might The sad part is it all came from an which will help them learn to think have already saved or shared your Instagram post.” things through themselves.” post by the time you delete it from Kids need to realize that these So how can kids, tweens, and your account. days, everyone looks at their social teens engage online in a more re- Be aware that your online activ- media activity, including teachers, sponsible way? Here are some tips: ity affects your reputation. When coaches, lawyers, colleges, scholar- Think before you post. If you’d you realize that other people be- ship committees, and potential em- be embarrassed to show what you’re sides your friends are checking out ployers. Stories abound in the media going to post to your grandmother, your social media accounts, you’re about athletes getting kicked off then don’t post it. If you’d be compro- more likely to do the right thing teams, students losing their scholar- mising your safety (such as posting online. ships, and kids getting arrested for where you’ll be at a certain time or With kids of all ages texting, ex- some of their questionable antics that you’re home alone), then don’t ploring social media, and posting that got posted on social media. post it. If you’d be hurting or embar- photos, parents can use these tips to “When any potential employee rassing someone else, then don’t help them navigate the use of social sends me a resume, the first thing I post it. media in a safe, responsible way. do is pull any social media accounts assume what you post isn’t pri- Lisa Beach is a freelance writer whose that I can,” points out Mueller. “You vate — even if you send a private work has been published in dozens of can find out an unbelievable amount message. Mueller points out that just print and online publications, including of information.” because you intended something to Brain, Child, Parents, Scary Mommy, Mueller advises that parents, as be private when you sent it, doesn’t Good Life Family, Calgary’s Child, and the first line of defense, need to play necessarily mean the other person Orlando Family. Check out her writer’s an active role in their kids’ online understands (or wants to adhere to) website at www.LisaBeachWrites.com lives by providing age-appropriate your intentions of keeping it private. and visit her humor blog at www.Twee- limits. Dr. Sandy Gluckman, a Func- As he says, “You can only control niorMoments.com.

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August 2016 • queens Family 25 HealtHy eating Farm stand specials or many of us, August is a time them for a corn salad with you don’t have to worry to get out of the city and enjoy all of those same ingre- about sealing and dry F the tranquility of summer. For dients plus a can of storing the jam. Use the others, August is a time to enjoy the drained, rinsed delicious jam over the tranquility inside the city, with less black beans or next week or two for crowds and a slower pace. Wherever chickpeas. all kinds of things you find yourself this month, make including puff-pas- sure you find your way to a farm tomato try tart filling, pan- Tips for stand. The sun-warmed, ripe toma- time cake topping, or toes, plump eggplants, juicy melons, I love sum- a fancy sandwich feeding kids and gem-like stone fruits of August mer tomatoes spread with some Chef Joanna DeVita make the produce stand look like a so much that I good brie or cam- candy shop. Treat these ingredients refrain from eat- embert. The ideal simply, and let their natural flavors ing them most of picnic food! shine! the year, because nothing compares to try a watermelon try something the juicy sweet, acidic flavor salad or soup new with corn blast of August tomatoes. My favorite We all love juicy sliced water- My family loves corn on the cob, breakfast during the tomato season melon and classic fruit salad. But simply grilled and served with salt is the traditional pan con tomate of when there are more melons around and butter. After shucking the corn, I Spain. This snack is so delicious and than we know what to do with, try rub it with olive oil and a few cracks requires no cooking except toasting mixing it up with a savory applica- of black pepper. When ready to grill, some good bread slices. (See the tion. Watermelon salad with mint I wrap the seasoned corn in alumi- recipe below.) or an ice-cold watermelon gazpa- num foil and place onto a hot grill. If The garlicky tomato topping can cho are both elegant additions to a you are lucky and have a campfire, be used for a number of things in friend’s pot luck cookout or a sunset you can place the corn directly on addition to toast, such as a sauce beach dinner. the hot coals of the fire. Just make for grilled chicken, a pizza topping, a sure to turn the wrapped ears fre- pasta salad sauce, and a condiment now is the time for quently. for steamed greens. eggplant Parmesan When corn is cooked to your liking Every year in August, I put aside (about five to 12 minutes depending Make jam some time to make a classic Egg- on the fire heat and your preferred My family’s favorite jam is blue- plant Parmesan. It takes time to do level of char), let the corn cool in its berry, hands down. Making jam it right. foil packet. This allows it to continue doesn’t have to be a huge project, You need to salt and drain the to steam as it cools. and is a great way to make sure no raw eggplant slices, bread and fry You can then add butter and serve fruit goes to waste. Blueberries can each slice, assemble the layers in — or try it Mexican-street style with be very runny, but if you add a fruit a casserole dish with fresh mozza- mayonnaise, chili powder, a squeeze that is high in pectin such as plums rella, basil, Parmesan, and a simple of lime, chopped cilantro, and some or apples, it will thicken it right up tomato sauce. The results can be crumbled cotija cheese. If you can’t naturally. sublime. find cotija, queso fresco or a mild feta Make a small batch in a heavy-bot- Although this is not an easy or will work. tomed sauce pan. Keep the few jars quick dish, it is well worth making Make a few extra ears and save that it yields right in the fridge so when eggplants are at their beauti- ful peak. Either make a small batch and eat it over a few days or make Pan con tomate multigrain — whatever you prefer the tomato pulp. a giant batch as I do, and freeze the Yields enough to top four slices of DiRECTiONS: Cut the tomato(s) in season the tomato pulp with 2 of leftovers in family-sized portions in toast half. Using a cheese grater, grate the the tablespoons of olive oil, black gallon Ziploc bags. If you get all the air out of the bag and make sure iNGREDiENTS: tomato’s cut-side until only the peel pepper, and a pinch of salt. remains. Let mixture sit to develop flavor it is sealed tightly, these precious 1 large, ripe beefsteak tomato or 3 leftovers will be perfect long after while you toast the bread. medium ripe plum tomatoes discard or eat the peel. reserve the eggplants are out of season. 3 tbsp. excellent-quality olive oil grated tomato insides in a small mix- spoon or brush the tomato mixture Joanna DeVita is executive chef at 1 raw garlic clove ing bowl. over the hot, toasted bread. Léman Manhattan Preparatory School. 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper grate half of the clove of garlic on drizzle the remaining olive oil over DeVita is the mother of two children flake sea salt (preferred), kosher salt, a microplane. reserve the ungrated the bread, letting it drip down the and loves nothing more than sharing or fine sea salt, to taste clove for another use, and add the sides. sprinkle with some more sea her love and respect for nature, good 4 slices toast — sourdough, ciabatta, grated garlic to the mixing bowl with salt, to taste. enjoy! ingredients, and the joy of cooking with them.

26 queens Family • August 2016 HealtHy eating AdviceAdvice Farm stand specials Don’t take a summer or many of us, August is a time them for a corn salad with you don’t have to worry to get out of the city and enjoy all of those same ingre- about sealing and dry F the tranquility of summer. For dients plus a can of storing the jam. Use the break from parenting others, August is a time to enjoy the drained, rinsed delicious jam over the tranquility inside the city, with less black beans or next week or two for ummer is a time when every- crowds and a slower pace. Wherever chickpeas. all kinds of things one wants a break. We work you find yourself this month, make including puff-pas- S hard all year and we deserve sure you find your way to a farm tomato try tart filling, pan- it! When it gets warm and the days Tips for stand. The sun-warmed, ripe toma- time cake topping, or Behavior are long, we all expect time at the toes, plump eggplants, juicy melons, I love sum- a fancy sandwich beach, lighter schedules, and more feeding kids and gem-like stone fruits of August mer tomatoes spread with some & Beyond time with friends. Chef Joanna DeVita make the produce stand look like a so much that I good brie or cam- Dr. Marcie Beigel After working hard to keep your candy shop. Treat these ingredients refrain from eat- embert. The ideal small beings in line all year, you simply, and let their natural flavors ing them most of picnic food! may also want a parenting vacation. shine! the year, because This means less structure at home nothing compares to try a watermelon and more flexibility with the rules, try something the juicy sweet, acidic flavor salad or soup for example, you’ll say “yes” more new with corn blast of August tomatoes. My favorite We all love juicy sliced water- often to ice cream and “no” to daily My family loves corn on the cob, breakfast during the tomato season melon and classic fruit salad. But clean up. simply grilled and served with salt is the traditional pan con tomate of when there are more melons around While it may seem like the right and butter. After shucking the corn, I Spain. This snack is so delicious and than we know what to do with, try choice at the moment, the reality is rub it with olive oil and a few cracks requires no cooking except toasting mixing it up with a savory applica- that you’ll have to work harder in the of black pepper. When ready to grill, some good bread slices. (See the tion. Watermelon salad with mint longer run. Consider that carefully I wrap the seasoned corn in alumi- recipe below.) or an ice-cold watermelon gazpa- when you decide to have a summer num foil and place onto a hot grill. If The garlicky tomato topping can cho are both elegant additions to a vacation from parenting. you are lucky and have a campfire, be used for a number of things in friend’s pot luck cookout or a sunset Here are your options, warts and you can place the corn directly on addition to toast, such as a sauce beach dinner. all: the hot coals of the fire. Just make for grilled chicken, a pizza topping, a sure to turn the wrapped ears fre- pasta salad sauce, and a condiment now is the time for Take the summer off quently. for steamed greens. eggplant Parmesan and pay for it as you go When corn is cooked to your liking Every year in August, I put aside You don’t want to scream at your (about five to 12 minutes depending Make jam some time to make a classic Egg- kids at the family barbecue, but on the fire heat and your preferred My family’s favorite jam is blue- plant Parmesan. It takes time to do I assure you that’s what will hap- level of char), let the corn cool in its berry, hands down. Making jam it right. pen if you let go of all structure. have dessert every other day rather is seamless. Your kiddos learned foil packet. This allows it to continue doesn’t have to be a huge project, You need to salt and drain the When you look the other way as than just on the weekends, or baths all summer that structure does not to steam as it cools. and is a great way to make sure no raw eggplant slices, bread and fry your kiddo eats a second dessert, every day instead of every other. inhibit fun. You can then add butter and serve fruit goes to waste. Blueberries can each slice, assemble the layers in it means that bedtime will end up Whatever the change, you talk My suggestion is to put option — or try it Mexican-street style with be very runny, but if you add a fruit a casserole dish with fresh mozza- being at 11:30 pm, instead of the about it and do it with intention. three into action. Select family rules mayonnaise, chili powder, a squeeze that is high in pectin such as plums rella, basil, Parmesan, and a simple regular 8:30 pm. The road back in September will be that help your small ones thrive and of lime, chopped cilantro, and some or apples, it will thicken it right up tomato sauce. The results can be You will see that bad behavior bumpy. but not grueling. keep them in place all year round. crumbled cotija cheese. If you can’t naturally. sublime. starts to happen more often. Also, Make small adjustments as seasons find cotija, queso fresco or a mild feta Make a small batch in a heavy-bot- Although this is not an easy or while you can pretend that your Rules change only change, because dramatic changes will work. tomed sauce pan. Keep the few jars quick dish, it is well worth making child understands the shift in rules during vacation are confusing. Keep your children’s Make a few extra ears and save that it yields right in the fridge so when eggplants are at their beauti- during the summer, it’s not the case. You keep all your regular rules mind stimulated throughout the ful peak. Either make a small batch It will take an intense amount of and expectations in place, especially summer as their bodies are in mo- and eat it over a few days or make work and be a grueling process to when it comes to routines around tion. Pan con tomate multigrain — whatever you prefer the tomato pulp. a giant batch as I do, and freeze the transition your kiddo to school-time treats and bedtime. This signals to Do what is in your kids’ best in- Yields enough to top four slices of DiRECTiONS: Cut the tomato(s) in season the tomato pulp with 2 of leftovers in family-sized portions in rules if you let everything go during your child that the rules are in his terests and help them flourish year toast half. Using a cheese grater, grate the the tablespoons of olive oil, black gallon Ziploc bags. If you get all the the summer. best interest. Also, you maintain round! air out of the bag and make sure some daily reading and homework For a special gift especially for iNGREDiENTS: tomato’s cut-side until only the peel pepper, and a pinch of salt. it is sealed tightly, these precious Make a set of time, so that your small ones keep remains. Let mixture sit to develop flavor New York Parenting readers please 1 large, ripe beefsteak tomato or 3 leftovers will be perfect long after summer rules learning all summer. Doing so helps visit: https://drmarcie.leadpages.co/ while you toast the bread. medium ripe plum tomatoes discard or eat the peel. reserve the eggplants are out of season. You acknowledge that the sum- them see learning as part of life, not quick-video-for-ny-parenting/ 3 tbsp. excellent-quality olive oil grated tomato insides in a small mix- spoon or brush the tomato mixture Joanna DeVita is executive chef at mer has more space for flexibility, something that only exists during Dr. Marcie Beigel is a behavioral 1 raw garlic clove ing bowl. over the hot, toasted bread. Léman Manhattan Preparatory School. but you will create structure that school. therapist based in Brooklyn. She has 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper grate half of the clove of garlic on drizzle the remaining olive oil over DeVita is the mother of two children inhibits problem behavior. You’ll talk When you are on vacation to- worked with thousands of families for flake sea salt (preferred), kosher salt, a microplane. reserve the ungrated the bread, letting it drip down the and loves nothing more than sharing with your kids about the shift in ex- gether, you relax the rules a bit and more than 15 years and has condensed or fine sea salt, to taste clove for another use, and add the sides. sprinkle with some more sea her love and respect for nature, good pectations when they are on holiday let your children know exactly what her observations into her practice and 4 slices toast — sourdough, ciabatta, grated garlic to the mixing bowl with salt, to taste. enjoy! ingredients, and the joy of cooking with and that there are adjustments you you are doing. This plan ensures programs. For more on her, visit www. them. are making. Maybe you decide to that the transition back to school BehaviorAndBeyond.net.

August 2016 • queens Family 27 Calendaraugust

Tee off at CityParks Golf now Cunningham Park (Union Turnpike and Baisley Boulevard in St. Albans) through Aug. 25 at Cunningham and 193rd Street in Fresh Meadows) At Kissena Park Corridor on Sink that Park, Park of the Americas, Nau- At Park of the Americas on Mon- Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 tilus Field, and Kissena Park Cor- days and Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10:30 am for children 6 to 8 and ridor. to 10:30 am for children 6 to 8 and from 10:30 am to noon for children putt! Children ages 6 to 17 can learn from 10:30 am to noon for children 9 to 17 years old. the basics of the sport, from tee- 9 to 17 years old. Kissena Park Corridor (Colden ing off to how to sink that hole- Park of the Americas (41st Avenue Street and Geranium Avenue in Flush- in-one. and 104th Street in North Corona) ing) City Golf is now through Aug. 25 At Nautilus Field on Mondays City Golf is free and is presented at Cunningham Park on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:30 to by René Lacoste Foundation and and Thursdays from 9:30 am to 10:30 am for children 6 to 8 and CityParks Foundation. 10:30 am for children 6 to 8, and from 10:30 am to noon for children Registration online is required: from 10:30 am to noon for children 9 to 17 years old. www.city­parksfoundation.org/sports/ 9 to 17 years old. Nautilus Field (Merrick Boulevard register

28 queens Family • August 2016 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 pm; Free. Join the Friends of Cunningham Submit a listing Park for a free performance of this This calendar is dedicated to classic Shakespeare play. The perfor- bringing our readers the most mance will be preceded by an inter- comprehensive list of events in active theater workshop, Kids and your area. But to do so, we need Classics, for children at 7 pm. your help! Send your listing request to Fri, Aug. 5 queens­[email protected] — and we’ll take care of the rest. In Queens Please e-mail requests more Rocket Park Recess – Hack: New than three weeks prior to the York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St.; event to ensure we have enough (718) 699–0005 X 353; www.ny- time to get it in. And best of all, science.org; Noon to 4 pm; Free with it’s FREE! admission to the hall. Visitors meet creative hackers and learn new tools for putting their Mon, Aug. 1 unique stamp on different aspects of their lives. In Queens Family Camping: Fort Totten Photo by Julie Larsen Maher “Hotel Transylvania”: Sobelsohn Visitor’s Center, Ordinance Road at Playground at Forest Park, Park Lane Shore Road; (718) 352–1769; www. 8 South and Jackie Robinson Park- A quest for wildlife nycgovparks.org; 7 pm to 7 am; Free. way; (718) 393–7370; 8 pm to 10 We camp to create lasting memo- pm; Free. Take the challenge to learn all animals that live in New York ries, connect with the natural world, Welcome to the Hotel Transylva- about wildlife in a new program City’s waterways while discov- and bond with our families. Camp- ing affords us the opportunity to un- called the Quests at Queens Zoo ering simple ways to help keep nia, Dracula’s lavish five-stake resort, plug from the diversions of everyday where monsters and their families now through Sept. 5. the New York seascape clean for life and to laugh and play with our can live it up, free from meddling The Quests are geared to chil- wildlife and people. families. Space is limited and partici- humans. For Drac, catering to all dren, but adults may participate Farm Fun – The zoo is home to pants are chosen by lottery. To enter of these legendary monsters is no as well. Visitors learn about wild- a wide range of domestic animals, your family into the lottery, please problem, but his world could come life in scavenger hunt format and including sheep, goats, chickens, visit our Program Registration page. crashing down when one ordinary embark on a nature adventure and horses. Participants will play “Show Boat”: Festival Site in guy stumbles on the hotel and takes to identify local birds, discover farm-themed games and learn Flushing Meadows Park, Meridian a shine to his daughter Mavis. Movie ways to reduce pollution, learn about the fuzzy domestic friends Road; (347) 472–3705; 8 pm to 10 begins at dusk. You should come about ocean and other aquatic who live on the zoo’s farm. pm; Free. early to get a spot and bring a chair habitats, and more. Participants recieve a Quest “Show Boat” tells the 40-year or blanket. All ages welcome! The four Quest stations are: map brochure at the start of each story of the lives of performers, stagehands, and dock workers who Outdoor Exploration – Chil- adventure, then visit several sta- “Marry Poppins”: Astoria Park are the denizens of the Cotton Blos- Lawn, Shore Boulevard between the dren will get their hands dirty tions around the park to com- som, a Mississippi River show boat. Hell Gate Bridge and the Pool; (718) as they play, explore, and experi- plete science and conservation At the time, the New Yorker noted 728–7820; 8:30 pm to 10 pm; Free. ence nature at the zoo. challenges that the show “was a radical de- When the children of the wealthy Bird Station – Visitors will Quest Stations is offered now parture in musical storytelling, mar- rying spectacle with seriousness”. and uptight Banks family are faced identify the amazing birds at the through Sept. 5, Wednesdays You are welcome to bring a blanket, with the prospect of a new nanny, zoo using binoculars provided by through Sundays, 11 am to 3 pm, staff. You will also discover how and is free with zoo admission. beach chair and as many friends as they are pleasantly surprised by the you want to enjoy these historical arrival of the magical Mary Poppins scientists protect birds and what Queens Zoo [53-51 111th St. be- performances. (Julie Andrews). Winner of five Acad- you can do to help. tween 53rd and 54th streets in Co- emy Awards in 1965. Sea Lion Station – Visitors will rona, (718) 271–1500, http://queen- learn about the amazing aquatic szoo.com] Sat, Aug. 6 In Queens Tues, Aug. 2 Hands-on History: King Manor In Queens Wed, Aug. 3 Thurs, Aug. 4 Museum, Jamaica Avenue and 150th “You’re a Good Man Charlie Street; (718) 206–0545; http:www. In Queens In Queens kingmanor.org; 1 pm to 4 pm; Free. Brown”: Flushing Meados Parking Poetry slam: Flushing Town Hall, Make and decorate pretty fans in- Lot, 111th Street and 108th Avenue; “Mr. Amoeba and the Geos”: Highland Park, Elton Street and Ja- 137-35 Northern Blvd.; (718) 463– spired by the dress and grooming of (718) 760–6560; 11 am to noon; 7700; www.flushingtownhall.org; 6 the 19th-century. Take a free tour of maica Avenue; (718) 235–4100; 6 Free. pm; $5 (free for members). King Manor Museum! Families with pm to 7 pm; Free. Join the Peanuts gang in this fast- Open mic for poets of all ages, children are welcome. Follow Mr. Amoeba and his stu- paced, lighthearted musical, guar- free-style rappers, and emerging art- Cido the Clown: Forest Park Car- anteed to please audiences of all dents Cindy Circle, Stevie Square, ists of all kinds. Hosted by poet and ousel, Forest Park Drive and Wood- ages! Musical numbers include “My and Tuttie Traingle as they confront storyteller Bobby González. haven Boulevard; (718) 788–2676; 2 Blanket and Me,” “The Kite,” “The the garbage-eating Wizard who “As you Like It”: Cunningham pm to 4 pm; Free. Baseball Game,” “Suppertime,” and wants the whole world to drink soda Park, 196th Street and Union Turn- Cido is a member of the World “Happiness.” and eat litter. pike; (718) 217–6452; 8 pm to 10 Continued on page 30 August 2016 • queens Family 29 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 29 streets. With no prospects for salva- Clown Association and Clowns of tion in sight, mutant crime-fighters America International. From his red Raphael, Leonardo, Donatello, and nose to his big feet, Cido is a pro- Michelangelo leap into action. The fessional clown to the fullest. This movie begins at dusk. You should clown magic show is sure to be fun come early to get a spot and bring for all! a chair or blanket. All ages are welcome! Story Time and Craft: Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St.; (718) 539–5296; info@queensbotani- Sat, Aug. 13 cal.org; www.queensbotanical.org; 2 In Queens pm to 3 pm; Free with Admission. Bring your little nature lovers for a Intermediate Canoeing: Beach relaxing afternoon featuring nature- 35th Street and Beach Channel Drive; inspired stories, followed by a botan- (212) 628–2345; 2 pm to 3:30 pm; ically themed craft activity. Free. Few experiences compare with Dance at Socrates: Socrates being on the open water in New Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd.; York City. The rhythm of the waves, 718–956–1819; www.socratessculp- the sun on your face, and the exhila- turepark.org; 4 pm; Free. ration of slicing through the water Now in its fourth season, Norte all add up to an experience you’ll Maar’s Dance at Socrates offers a never forget. This program is for residency and performance program ages 8 yeasr and older. Some prior that brings New York-based chore- canoeing or kayaking experience ographers and their dancers to So- Laughs at graduation preferred. First-come, first-served. crates’ unique waterfront environ- ment. Three weeklong residencies Get ready to chuckle till your graduation show. Dance at Socrates: 4 pm. So- will each culminate in a free dance sides hurt at the Kids ‘N Com- Kids ‘N Comedy graduation crates Sculpture Park. See Saturday, Aug. 6. performance on an outdoor stage edy Graduation Show at Gotham show on Aug. 12 at 2:30 pm. within the grove of trees. Comedy Club on Aug. 12. There’s a $10 cover and a one “Zootopia”: Borad Channel Park, Camp Kids ‘N Comedy is cel- item minimum. There is a lunch Cross Bay Boulevard and W. 17th Sun, Aug. 7 ebrating the latest bunch of funny menu and a kids menu available. Road; (718) 318–4000; 8 pm to 10 pm; Frfee. In Queens men and women in their gradua- Reservations required and only tion — yes, that’s right, these kids by phone. In a city inhabited by anthropo- Magical Miles Thorn: Fantasy morphic animals who have aban- (14 to 17 years old) are ready for Gotham Comedy Club [208 W. Forest Amusement Park, 111th Street doned traditional predator-prey roles and Corona Avenue; (718) 788– the big time. So come on down 23rd St. between Seventh and Eighth in favor of civilized co-existence, up- 2676; 2 pm and 4 pm; Free. and get a laugh fest as the com- avenues in Midtown, (212) 877– tight rabbit police officer Judy Hopps Miles Thorn is a professional ma- ics move over their tassels in a 6115]. is forced with charismatic fox con gician and illusionist who offers a artist Nick Wilde to crack a major unique Las Vegas-style magic and il- case involving the mysterious disap- lusion show for all types of events. Building 10 on Governors Island, homeland. pearance of some carnivorous citi- The show is filled with fast-paced vi- Manhattan; (347) 425–7770; www. zens. There will be popcorn. Bring a sual magic, live animals, and incred- brooklynartery.com; 1 pm to 3 pm; blanket or chair. ible displays of juggling. He strives Free. Wed, Aug. 10 to set himself apart from the com- Hosted by Brooklyn ARTery In Queens petition, and leave audiences with a Sun, Aug. 14 Soundstage, the event features Re- magical experience they are sure to “Julius Caesar”: Unisphere at gina Ress. In Queens remember! Flushing Meadows Park, River Ter- race and Warren Street; (718) 760– Make your own wind chime: “Goosebumps”: Beach 20th 6560; 6:30 pm; Free. Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Tues, Aug. 9 Blvd.; (718) 463–7700; www.flush- Street Overlook, Pedestrian Way and This sensational political thriller ex- ingtownhall.org; 2 pm to 3 pm; $5 the Boardwalk; (718) 393–7370; 8 In Queens plores the tension between private (free for members). pm to 10 pm; Free. “My Reptile Guy”: Alley Pond loyalties and the public good, and A teenager named Zach reluc- Park, 76th Avenue and Springfield unflinchingly questions the price of Create musical wind chimes tantly moves from New York City Boulevard; (718) 352–4793; 10 am to freedom. A children’s show starts from found objects with Exploring to the quiet town of Madison, Del., 11 am; Free. at 6:30 pm. The main performance the Metropolis Con Edison/Flush- where he quickly realizes that his re- Enjoy this original and educational starts at 7:30 pm. ing Council on Culture and the Arts clusive new neighbor is in fact the show featuring the display of several Composer-in-Residence and wind horror author of the Goosebumps exotic animals. chime artist Skip LaPlante. Some of series. Zach learns R.L. Stine’s iden- Fri, Aug. 12 Skip’s imaginative wind chimes will Teatro Sea: Flushing Meadows tity when he is drawn to the writer’s In Queens be on display. Bring something spe- daughter Hannah, but soon discov- Park, 111th Street and 53rd Avenue; cial from home to attach to your ers the dangerous secret inside their (718) 760–6560; 11 am to noon; “Teenage Mutant Ninja Tur- wind chime (optional). Maximum 25 home — the creatures from Stine’s Free. tles”: Crocheron Park, Corbitt Road participants. Materials are provided. famous stories are real, and are kept Hop aboard “La Chivta,” a bi- and 35th Avenue; (718) 393–7370; 8 Suitable for children over 7 years old. locked away inside their original lingual show about a magical bus pm to 10 pm; Free. manuscripts. that journeys through the heartland The sinister Shredder has seized Further Afield of Colombia. Join lovable charac- control of New York City’s police Storytelling festival: Nolan Park, Further Afield ters that share traditional songs, and politicians, leaving his ruthless Building 10 on Governor’s Island, Storytelling festival: Nolan Park, dance, and stories of their beloved Foot Clan to spread chaos in the Manhattan; (347) 425–7770; www. 30 queens Family • August 2016 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar brooklynartery.com; 1 pm to 3 pm; ploration the old-fashioned way. Free. While sailing past the Statue of Lib- Hosted by Brooklyn ARTery erty we’ll learn about the sea crea- Soundstage, the event features Arif tures we caught, examine plankton Choudhury. through a view-scope, test the water to learn how animals live here, and Mon, Aug. 15 learn about our marine ecosystem. The sail is recommended for chil- In Queens dren aged 5 and up. Reservations “Finding Nemo”: Buddy Monu- required. ment, Park Lane South and Myrtle Avenue; (718) 235–4100; 7:30 pm to Storytelling festival: Nolan Park, 10 pm; Free. Building 10 on Governors Island, After his son Nemo is captured, Manhattan; (347) 425–7770; www. Marlin, a clownfish, sets out on an brooklynartery.com; 1 pm to 3 pm; adventure with another fish named Free. Dory to find him. Please bring a Hosted by Brooklyn ARTery blanket or low chair. Soundstage, the event features Julie Pasqual and puppets. Tues, Aug. 16 In Queens Mon, Aug. 22 Music with Darlene Graham: In Queens Alley Pond Park, 76th Avenue and Moth Story Slam: Flushing Town Springfield Boulevard; (718) 352– 4793; 10:30 am to 11:30 am; Free. Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd.; (718) For children of all ages with her 463–7700; www.flushingtownhall. interactive and exciting performance. Rockin’ time travel org; 7:30 pm; $10. Open to anyone with a true story Puss in Boots: Flushing Meadows Travel to the past, present, and summer has just begun. to share on the night’s theme: and Park, 111th Street and 53rd Avenue; future with Edge in the new musi- “Summer Rock,” Aug. 11 and Back to School. When the doors (718) 760–6560; 11 am to noon; cal “Summer Rock” at the Daven- 12 at 8 pm, Aug. 13 at 2 pm and Free. open, storyteller hopefuls put their port Black Box Theatre on Aug. 8 pm, and Aug. 14 at 2 pm and Presented by CityParks Puppet- names in The Moth Hat. A half hour 11, 12, 13, and 14. 6 pm. Tickets are $30 for adults Mobile, this is the old tale — with later, names are picked, and story- a twist. Once upon a time there Summer just got a new set and children 11 and older, and tellers take the stage. Each person lived a young man named Ferguson of heroes. Edge and his friends $25 for seniors and children 10 has just five minutes! Ten featured Mundingle. Fergus has just the bare discover a way to travel into the and younger. stories are scored by teams of judges essentials in life — a roof over his past, but they will need to travel Davenport Black Box Theatre selected from the audience, which head, the clothes on his back, and into the future facing their great- [354 W. 45th St. between Ninth and picks the StorySLAM winner. Your his ever faithful pet cat. One day est challenge in a race against Eighth avenues in the Theater Dis- story may be heard on NPR. Sign up when lamenting his poor lifestyle, time to save his younger sister. trict, (516) 252–4114; www.summer- or just enjoy the show! Fergus is astounded when his cat The roller-coaster ride of the roc​kanewmusical.com]. stands up, begins talking and intro- duces himself as Puss. Tues, Aug. 23 In Queens members; $8 children; $6 child Playground, 135th Street and 83rd Thurs, Aug. 18 members). Avenue; (718) 393–7370; 8 pm to 10 Puss in Boots: Alley Pond Park, In Queens Jack’s incredible journey begins pm; Free. 76th Avenue and Springfield Boule- vard; (718) 352–4793; 10:30 am to Full Moon drumming work- when he agrees to trade his cow for Take a trip back in time to when shop: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 some magic beans. Maritime Mari- star Monsters, Inc. employees Mike 11:30 am; Free. Northern Blvd.; (718) 463–7700; onettes from Nova Scotia retells the Wazowski and James P. “Sulley” Sul- www.flushingtownhall.org; 7 pm; $5 popular folktale that follows Jack’s livan were just two promising young Thurs, Aug. 25 (free for members). incredible journey from his humble students at Monsters University in Celebrate the Full Moon with mas- cottage, up a giant beanstalk, to a this frightfully fun Disney-Pixar pre- In Queens ter drummers Nan Bao, then jam castle in the sky. This lighthearted quel. Movie begins at dusk. You “As you Like It”: Crocheron Park, with the entire group under the presentation features marionettes, should come early to get a spot and 35th Avenue and Cross Island Park- shadow puppets, music, and story- moon. Space is limited to 20 par- bring a chair or blanket. All ages way; (718) 352–4793; 6:30 pm; Free. telling. For ages 10 and under. welcome! ticipants per workshop. Drums pro- Hip to Hip Theatre Company’s vided. All are welcome from begin- Dance at Socrates: 4 pm. So- 10th anniversary season has some- ner to professional, just bring your Further Afield crates Sculpture Park. See Saturday, thing for everyone. Join us for two enthusiasm and participate! Aug. 6. Ecology Sail: Schooner Pioneer leaves from Pier 16 at South Street of Shakespeare’s best-loved and most action-packed plays, complete Sat, Aug. 20 Seaport, Manhattan; https://web. Sun, Aug. 21 ovationtix.com/trs/pr/961826; Noon with political intrigue, romantic mis- adventures, vibrant music, civil war, In Queens In Queens to 3 pm; $45 ($40 children). Come aboard the schooner Pio- a wrestling match, and a venge- “Jack and the Beanstalk”: Story Time and Craft: 2 pm to 3 neer and set sail past Governors Is- ful ghost! This interactive children’s Maritime Marionettes: Flushing Town pm. Queens Botanical Garden. See Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd.; (718) land for the fishing grounds of Bay workshop is offered one hour before Saturday, Aug. 6. 463–7700; www.flushingtownhall. Ridge. Children and adults help raise each performance. org; 10:30 am and 2 pm; $13 ($10 “Monsters University”: Manton the sails so we can continue our ex- Continued on page 32 August 2016 • queens Family 31 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 31 718–956–1819; www.socratessculp- Fri, Aug. 26 turepark.org; Saturdays, Noon to 3 pm, Now – Sat, Sept. 24; Free. In Queens Saturday Sculpture Workshops are The Tee-Tones: Brookville Park, designed for kids (ages 5 to 13) and Brookville Boulevard and 144th Av- their families. Participants will work enue; (718) 393–7270; 6 pm; Free. with a different artist each week, ex- The Tee-Tones combine soulful ploring innovative art mediums and harmony with passionate vocal per- a variety of subject matter. formances of the classics for the Bio Bus: New York Hall of Science, great R&B groups of the ’50s, ’60s 47-01 111th St.; (718) 699–0005 X and ’70s. Presented by The Kupfer- 353; www.nyscience.org; Satur- berg Center For Arts at Queens Col- day, Aug. 6, 12 pm; Sunday, Aug. lege. Bring a chair or blanket and 7, 12 pm; Monday, Aug. 8, 11 am; enjoy the show! Tuesday, Aug. 9, 11 am; Wednesday, Aug. 10, 11 am; Thursday, Aug. 11, Sat, Aug. 27 11 am; Friday, Aug. 12, 11 am; Free In Queens with admission to the hall. Families can travel into worlds Arthur Ashe Kid’s Day: USTA smaller than the eye can see when Billie Jean King National Tennis Cen- they board the BioBus, the world’s File photo by Steve Solomonson ter, Corona Park; (866) OPEN-TIX only state-of-the-art microscope fa- (673–6849); www.usopen.org; 9:30 cility housed on a solar-powered am to 4 pm; $10 general admission 1974 transit bus. ($25 loge tickets). Masterpieces in sand Alley Pond Adventure course: The 21st annual even is presented Grab your pails, shovels, and turn sand into a towering mas- Alley Pond Park Adventure Center, by Hess. Singing sensations Flo Rida, imagination — it’s the 26th an- terpiece for a chance to win cash Zara Larsson, Troye Sivan, Jordan Alley Pond Park; (718) 217–6034; nual Sand Sculpting Contest in prizes and bragging rights. Fisher, Laura Marano, and Forever In www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers; Sun- Your Mind will team up with reign- Coney Island on Aug. 20. Preregistration required for all days, 9:30 am to noon, Now – Sun, ing 2015 US Open Champion Novak Sponsored by Astella Devel- entrants. Aug. 28; Free. Djokovic and two-time US Open opment Corporation and Brook- Sand Sculpting Contest, Aug. This outdoor adventure fosters Champion Rafael Nadal to kick-off lyn Community Services, the 20 from noon to 4 pm. Free. trust, communication, and team the 2016 US Open. family-friendly event is open to Coney Island Beach (Off Board- building at Alley Pond Park. The amateurs and semi-professional walk between W. 10th and W. 12th program is a two-hour adventure, Sun, Aug. 28 sand-sculpting artists of all ages. streets, www.wearebcs.org/bcs/ which includes both low and high Everyone has the chance to news_events/sand-sculpting2016/). elements. The Adventure Course is Further Afield open to individuals, small groups of Storytelling festival: Nolan Park, friends, and family, ages 8 and up. Building 10 on Governor’s Island, Minors must be accompanied by an cas, 41st Avenue and 104th Street; CityParks Golf: Kissena Park Manhattan; (347) 425–7770; www. adult. Valid photo identificaiton is www.CityParksFoundation.org.; Corridor, Colden St. and Geranium required. You must wear sneakers. brooklynartery.com; 1 pm to 3 pm; Avenue; www.CityParksFoundation. Mondays and Wednesdays, 9:30 am Space is limited and participants are Free. org.; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 to noon, Mon, Aug. 1 – Thurs, Aug. chosen by lottery. Please visit our Hosted by Brooklyn ARTery Sound- am to noon, Mon, Aug. 1 – Thurs, 25; Free. Urban Park Rangers’ Events Registra- stage, the event features Megan Aug. 25; Free. Hicks. Youngsters ages 6 to 17 learn the tion page to enter your name in the proper use of equipment, the basics Garden Workdays: Queens Bo- lottery. of the sport, and hone up on skills. tanical Garden, 43-50 Main St.; (718) Long-running Online registration required. 539–5296; www.queensbotanical. Further Afield In Queens CityParks Golf: Nautilus Field, org; Wednesdays, 9 am to noon, SeaGlass Carousel: SeaGlass Car- Now – Wed, Aug. 31; Free. Rocket Park Mini Golf: New York Merrick Blvd. and Baisley Boulevard; ousel, The Battery, Battery Park Un- Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St.; (718) www.CityParksFoundation.org.; Teens 16 and older get a chance derpass, Manhattan; www.thebat- 699–0005 X 353; www.nyscience. Mondays and Wednesdays, 9:30 am to experience farming, and learning tery.org; Daily, 10 am to 10 pm; Now org; Mondays and Wednesdays – to noon, Mon, Aug. 1 – Thurs, Aug. how to harvest, plant and compost. – Sat, Aug. 20; $5 per ride. Fridays, 9:30 am to 5 pm, Tuesdays, 25; Free. Registration required. A beautiful, huge crystal nautilus 9:30 am to 5 pm, Saturdays and Quests program: Queens Zoo, shell with 30 grand luminescent fish Summer Sports: Playground For Sundays, 10 am to 6 pm, Now – Sun, 53-51 111th St.; (718) 271–1500; takes riders on an aquatic journey. Oct. 30; $6 ($5 children) plus admis- All Children, Corona Avenue and queenszoo.com; Wednesdays – Sun- 111th Street; (718) 393–7370; www. Mario Batali’s Kitchen Gar- sion to the Hall. days, 11 am to 3 pm, Now – Mon, dens: New York Botanical Garden, nycgpvparks.org; Weekdays, 3:30 pm The game reveals that the same Sept. 5; Free with zoo admission. 2900 Southern Blvd. at Fordham to 5:30 pm, Now – Fri, Sept. 2; Free. laws of motion and gravity that The Quests are geared to children, Road, The Bronx; (718) 817–8700; guide the path of a spaceship con- Children learn about sports and but adults may participate as well. www.nybg.org; Tuesdays – Sun- trol the motion of golf balls here on play basketball, soccer, track and Visitors learn about wildlife in scav- days, 1:30 pm to 6 pm, Now – Sun, Earth. In this nine-hole miniature field, and street hockey! enger hunt format and embark on Nov. 20; Included in All Garden Pass golf course, players will explore key CityParks Golf: Cunningham Park, a nature adventure to identify local Admission. science concepts such as propulsion, Union Turnpike and 193rd Street; birds, discover ways to reduce pol- Garden beds are filled with plants gravity, escape velocity, launch win- www.CityParksFoundation.org.; lution, learn about ocean and other featured in the favorite recipes of dow, gravitational assist, and more. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 am aquatic habitats, and more. the chefs from Mario Batali’s restau- Recommended for ages 6 and older. to noon, Mon, Aug. 1 – Thurs, Aug. Sculpture Workshop: Socrates rants. Kids can explore the gardens CityParks Golf: Park of the Ameri- 25; Free. Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd.; to solve Mario’s Menu Mystery. 32 queens Family • August 2016 Party Planners

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August 2016 • queens Family 33 New & Noteworthy By Lisa J. Curtis Designing with nature The Student Gel Printing Plate ing for design inspiration indoors, Kit from Gelli Arts is a versatile you can use bubble wrap, cotton set of tools that can be used out- swabs, or even a cardboard tube to side and can easily incorporate apply or take away paint. (The Gelli items such as leaves and feathers Arts blog has inspirational videos into monoprint designs. Artists of that we enjoyed watching over and all ages can use the 5-inch-square over again.) “gelli” printing pad, brayer, and Changing colors on the flexible two 5-inch-square geometric sten- printing square — and clean up — cils over and over again to make is a breeze: use water or hand sani- frame-worthy prints, gift wrap, tizer and wipe with a paper towel, or decorative papers. (And these or just use baby wipes. With this tools can be used to print on fab- printing plate kit, kids can begin ric, too.) making monoprints in minutes, Parents supply the acrylic paint, but there is a seemingly infinite paper, and encouragement to wee number of possible tool and color artists to find items from the yard combinations to make for hours of or park that could be used to make enjoyment. interesting patterns in the paint. Student Gel Printing Plate Kit by Gelli If it is a rainy day, and you’re look- Arts, $24.99, www.gelliarts.com. Bring da Noize All ‘Manor’ of fun For a lighthearted and (discreetly) educa- For a family game night that is sure to be tional soundtrack on your next family road remembered, check out ThinkFun’s Escape the trip, look no further than “Phineas McBoof Room: Mystery at the Stargazer’s Manor, Nicholas Crashes the Symphony” — the latest musical Cravotta and Rebecca Bleau’s tabletop version of from Doctor Noize. the popular, real-life escape-the-room events. Composer-performer Cory Cullinan, aka Recommended for ages 10 and up, it challenges Doctor Noize, has recruited an impressive ros- players to travel back to 1869 and visit the mansion ter of artists to record this spirited two-act, two of a reclusive astronomer to get to the bottom of the CD set. The City of strange sights, sounds, and smells emanating from Prague Philhar- within. When your band of sleuths enters the manor, monic Orchestra, you will be “locked” in a room, and that’s when the under the baton clock starts on the fun of opening envelopes to re- of Kyle Pickett, veal clues to solve puzzles that beget more clues gives a soaring Savor memories until your family — hopefully — escapes. per for ma nce, You can mine culinary gold at summer The game night can be and they’re more potluck dinners with Valerie McKeehan’s as elaborate as you’d like; than matched wire-bound Keepsake Kitchen Diary, where the website offers tips on by Grammy-gar- family cooks can log in nearly 200 of their how to evoke a mood with nering opera favorite recipes, as well as their memories costume accessories and stars Nathan of each dish. period music. Gunn and Isabel Leonard. The Metropolitan Write in when you first tried the dish, the Escape the Room: Mystery Opera’s John McVeigh, in the role of Mama’s occasions when it has been enjoyed, and the at the Stargazer’s Manor by Boy, pleads for courage in the adorable “I name of the person who likes it the best. ThinkFun, $21.99, www.tar- Could Be Someone.” The recipes are conveniently sorted under get.com. Cullinan, a former high- school music teacher, tabs designating type (starters, soups and sal- has sprinkled tantalizing tidbits about orches- ads, main courses, side dishes, desserts, and tration, instrumentation, and music history miscellaneous). throughout his lively story. “Phineas McBoof” And finally, the pretty 9-by-10-inch cook- is recommended for all ages, but those listen- book includes 12 tear-out recipe cards, so you ers ranging from age 8 to 13 especially appreci- can share your beloved recipes with the next ate the witty banter. Bravo, Doctor Noize! generation, too. Grandma would approve. “Phineas McBoof Crashes the Symphony” two The Keepsake Kitchen Diary by Lily & Val, CD set by Doctor Noize, $19.99, www.cdbaby.com. $45.99, www.lilyandval.com.

34 queens Family • August 2016 Fall–Winter 2015–2016 NEW YORK FREE NEW YORK SPECIAL CHILD New & Noteworthy www.NYParenting.com SPECIAL CHILD By Lisa J. Curtis The risks of misdiagnosis

How social media LONG ISLAND Designing with nature supports parents The Student Gel Printing Plate ing for design inspiration indoors, Strategies SPECIAL CHILD Kit from Gelli Arts is a versatile you can use bubble wrap, cotton for language set of tools that can be used out- swabs, or even a cardboard tube to side and can easily incorporate apply or take away paint. (The Gelli 4 inspiring items such as leaves and feathers Arts blog has inspirational videos success stories WESTCHESTER/ROCKLAND into monoprint designs. Artists of that we enjoyed watching over and Eliminating all ages can use the 5-inch-square over again.) problem foods “gelli” printing pad, brayer, and Changing colors on the flexible SPECIAL CHILD two 5-inch-square geometric sten- printing square — and clean up — cils over and over again to make is a breeze: use water or hand sani- 200+ Trusted since 2008 frame-worthy prints, gift wrap, tizer and wipe with a paper towel, resources or decorative papers. (And these or just use baby wipes. With this tools can be used to print on fab- printing plate kit, kids can begin

ric, too.) making monoprints in minutes, Spring/Summer 2015 Parents supply the acrylic paint, but there is a seemingly infinite LONG ISLAND FREE Informing & enriching paper, and encouragement to wee number of possible tool and color SPECIAL CHILD artists to find items from the yard combinations to make for hours of www.NYParenting.com or park that could be used to make enjoyment. “Special Needs” interesting patterns in the paint. Student Gel Printing Plate Kit by Gelli A holistic If it is a rainy day, and you’re look- Arts, $24.99, www.gelliarts.com. approach to families ADHD Challenges throughout NYC, and changes Bring da Noize All ‘Manor’ of fun in Special Ed Long Island For a lighthearted and (discreetly) educa- For a family game night that is sure to be Autism-friendly tional soundtrack on your next family road remembered, check out ThinkFun’s Escape the traveling tips & Westchester/Rockland trip, look no further than “Phineas McBoof Room: Mystery at the Stargazer’s Manor, Nicholas Benefits of Crashes the Symphony” — the latest musical Cravotta and Rebecca Bleau’s tabletop version of music therapy from Doctor Noize. the popular, real-life escape-the-room events. 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SPECIAL CHILD www.NYParenting.com per for ma nce, You can mine culinary gold at summer The game night can be www.NYParenting.com and they’re more potluck dinners with Valerie McKeehan’s as elaborate as you’d like; than matched wire-bound Keepsake Kitchen Diary, where the website offers tips on Advocating Like us on our Facebook page, NYParenting for your child by Grammy-gar- family cooks can log in nearly 200 of their how to evoke a mood with or follow us on Twitter nering opera favorite recipes, as well as their memories costume accessories and stars Nathan of each dish. period music. The stigma Gunn and Isabel Leonard. The Metropolitan Write in when you first tried the dish, the Escape the Room: Mystery of medication To advertise your business and or services Opera’s John McVeigh, in the role of Mama’s occasions when it has been enjoyed, and the at the Stargazer’s Manor by habits for Boy, pleads for courage in the adorable “I name of the person who likes it the best. ThinkFun, $21.99, www.tar- effective contact us at 718-260-4554 Could Be Someone.” The recipes are conveniently sorted under get.com. parenting Cullinan, a former high- school music teacher, tabs designating type (starters, soups and sal- 7 or e-mail us at [email protected] has sprinkled tantalizing tidbits about orches- ads, main courses, side dishes, desserts, and Recognizing tration, instrumentation, and music history miscellaneous). auditory issues throughout his lively story. “Phineas McBoof” And finally, the pretty 9-by-10-inch cook- is recommended for all ages, but those listen- book includes 12 tear-out recipe cards, so you New York Parenting/CNG ers ranging from age 8 to 13 especially appreci- can share your beloved recipes with the next 150+ 1 MetroTech Center North - 10th Fl. • Brooklyn, NY 11201 ate the witty banter. Bravo, Doctor Noize! generation, too. Grandma would approve. resources “Phineas McBoof Crashes the Symphony” two The Keepsake Kitchen Diary by Lily & Val, 718-260-4554 • [email protected] CD set by Doctor Noize, $19.99, www.cdbaby.com. $45.99, www.lilyandval.com. 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