January 2017 Manhattan FREE Family www.NYParenting.com Cool kid stuff Find what’s good on TV A daughter’s first date Young star in the kitchen Talking politics Catholic Schools Week January 29 - February 4, 2017
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Features columns 6 Writing out your 19 Healthy Living resolutions by Danielle Sullivan How making a list can help you reach 24 FabuLYSS Finds your goals by Lyss Stern By Lara Krupicka 25 Tips for Feeding Kids 8 Kids & TV By Dawn Lerman Ratings, recommendations, and guidelines for parents 26 Just Write Mom By Myrna Beth Haskell by Danielle Sullivan 12 This kid’s got chops 27 Behavior & Beyond NYC cooking prodigy tells us about his By Dr. Marcie Beigel prize-winning dish By Shnieka L. Johnson 28 Ask an Attorney By Alison Arden Besunder, Esq. 14 First-date jitters Daughter’s first dance brings out 36 Divorce & Separation mom’s teen nostalgia By Lee Chabin, Esq. By Kara Martinez Bachman 38 New & Noteworthy 20 Talking politics By Lisa J. Curtis How to handle election discussion with your children By Shnieka L. Johnson special sections 16 Activity Directory calendar 22 Catholic Schools 30 30 January Events Directory 37 The Marketplace
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 3 letter from the publisher Short days and long nights ’m writing this on the of the glorious things about Rolling out soon will be the “new look” shortest day of the year, life in New York are all the of our website, NYParenting.com, and we I Dec. 21, and I can only wonderful parks that make hope you will visit it often. It works well say how happy I am to know our city so enjoyable in every with any device and offers a great calen- that every day from here on season. dar, helpful guides and of course all of our will grow longer. It’s draining It won’t be long before we editorial, both recent and archived. Our to get up when it’s dark and have a snowfall that leaves Online Camp Guide 2017 will be launching to leave work when it’s dark accumulation on the ground, soon. Be sure to look for it. also. I miss the light and don’t and what kid doesn’t love Wishing all of you and our staff and know anyone who doesn’t. finding a good hill in a park contributors a very Happy New Year! We Kids especially have a really and sledding or snow tubing hope you have started out the year right difficult time in the winter, particularly down? And what about those ice rinks? and that good health and prosperity will now that most of them are engaged in af- There are many wonderful rinks in all the be a part of your every day life in 2017. ter-school programs. By the time they too boroughs and I urge you to make sure that Take nothing for granted. Enjoy! Thanks are finished, it’s dark and also cold, not the your family begins this fun practice really for reading. best recipe for outdoor fun. early on in your child’s life. Light is very important to our psyche The holidays were fun as they always and we have to take advantage of the week- are but now we’re on to a New Year and ends in the winter in particular to make new experiences. New York is exciting all sure we get enough outdoor light time. year long and winter is no exception. This Getting yourself and the kids up early issue offers a variety of ideas of how to Susan Weiss-Voskidis, enough on weekend days to get outside stay healthy, eat well, and prioritize and Publisher/Excutive Editor and frolic is of the utmost importance. One make the cold months internally warmer. [email protected]
Community News Group Contact information ceo: Les Goodstein advertising: Web or Print address President & Publisher: (718) 260-4554 New York Parenting Media/CNG Jennifer Goodstein [email protected] 1 Metrotech Center North 10th Floor circulation Brooklyn, NY 11201 New York parenting (718) 260-8336 [email protected] Publisher / executive editor: Susan Weiss editorial www.NYParenting.com Publisher / business Manager: (718) 260-4554 Clifford Luster [email protected] oPerations associate: calendar NEW YORK Tina Felicetti (718) 260-2523 sales rePs: Alexis Benson, Erin Brof, Parenting Jay Pelc, Stephanie Stellacio art director: Leah Mitch The acceptance of advertising by New York Join the conversation on Facebook. Parenting does not constitute an endorse- New York Parenting has been recognized for Web designer: Sylvan Migdal ment of the products, services or informa- editorial and design excellence by PMA. tion being advertised. We do not knowingly graPhic designers: Arthur Arutyunov, present any products or services that are New York Parenting is published monthly by Richard Chance, Gardy Charles, Earl Ferrer, fraudu lent or misleading in nature. New York Parenting Media/CNG. Subscrip- tion rate is $35 annually. Reproduction of John Napoli, Mark Ramos Editorial inquiries, calendar information, New York Parenting Media in whole or advertising rates and schedules and subscrip- part without written permission from the tion requests may be addressed to New York th publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Parenting, One Metro tech Center North, 10 Copyright©2017 Managing editor: Vince DiMiceli Floor, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. assistant editor: Courtney Donahue New York Parenting can also be reached by coPy editors: Lisa J. Curtis calling (718) 260-4554, emailing Family@ NYParenting.com or by visiting our website, calendar editor: Joanna Del Buono NYParenting.com.
4 Manhattan Family • January 2017 T:8”
AMAZING is OUTSMARTING A BRAIN INFECTION.
While on a family Thanksgiving trip to NYC, Brandon had what was thought to be just a cold. Then he started to lose feeling in his limbs. On the advice of a doctor at their hotel, his mom rushed him to NewYork-Presbyterian, where pediatric specialists found extensive clots and a severe infection in his brain. Brandon had four emergency T:10.5” surgeries in five days, and then a full team of doctors and rehab therapists helped him to a full recovery in time to return home to St. Louis for the holidays.
See Brandon’s story at nyp.org/kids
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 5
NYPK3235_KidsCreativeLaunch_ManhattanFamilyMag_FINAL.indd Manhattan Family Mag
Job Info Approvals Client NewYork-Presbyterian Users Jovan Sekulovski / Derek Rush Art Director Tim x265 Job NYPK 3235 Current Date 11-3-2016 9:47 AM Copywriter Steve Creation Date 11-3-2016 9:46 AM Account Dana x210 MATERIALS PREPARED BY Live 7” x 9.5” Studio Artist Jovan x250 Trim 8” x 10.5” Printed at None SEIDEN Proofreader 212.223.8700 Bleed 8.25” x 10.75” Page # 4 Project Mgr Meredith x239 Inks Fonts Notes TheSans (B4 SemiLight), The Sans Bold- (Bold Plain), Neutraface Display (Titling) Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black Images 373335_NYPK_Master_Box_BRANDON_SWOP.tif (CMYK; 1369 ppi; 21.9%), WC_CD_NYP_Logo_Lockup_KO.ai (78.27%) Round: FINAL Writing out your resolutions How making a list can help you reach your goals
By Lara KrupicKa desires comes up. If your intention is that this will be the year you take up water- ow that the calendar has color painting, you will be more likely to turned and you have a notice the article in the local paper about N whole year before you, a woman opening a studio to offer water- what will you do? Whether you favor color classes. Not only will you notice it, New Year’s resolutions or not, there’s but you will be mentally prepared to take nothing like the positive image of pos- action — to check your calendar to see sibility that lies in the fresh begin- which class fits your schedule and then nings of Jan. 1. And tapping into that phone to register for the class. You will inspiration can take your family on make it happen. adventures all year long, if you adopt the right mindset. A call to celebrate You and your children have listed This year I will… what you look forward to this year. But Try this exercise with your children: consider this: those lists can also pro- write (or print out) the phrase: “This vide a reminder of what you want to cel- year I will…” ebrate — be it a milestone you anticipate Then, have your children list out as or an accomplishment someone is aiming many things as they can think of. If you for. So while the year is young, think about need to, prompt your child with a few how you would like to acknowledge special expected events, but also encourage events. Will you have a party? Or will a her to consider new ideas of hopes she certain reward correspond with cross- wants to make happen. For example, a ing off a goal? Talk as a family about child may write: “This year I will turn 6, when and how this year you will all start first grade, learn how to ride a two- commemorate those occasions. wheeler, and go to Grandma’s for my first If you can, post your lists out in the long overnight without Mom and Dad.” open where you can see them and be Ask younger children to draw pictures Power in writing reminded regularly of where your family of what they hope will come in the next Just having written those thoughts down wants this year to take you. Commit to year. Then you can write underneath the will make a difference. As Henriette Anne reviewing your lists once a month or so — pictures a description of what each one Klauser says in her book, “Write It Down, perhaps as a family night activity. As you depicts. Make It Happen,” “Writing down your review, cheer each other on for any prog- While your children are working on dreams and aspirations is like hanging up ress made toward attaining your goals, or their lists, write your own. Again, if it a sign that says, ‘Open for Business.’ ” milestones you have passed. helps, start off with the occurrences you She goes on to explain how the act of Unlike New Year’s resolutions, where can be fairly certain will happen. Note any putting a goal in writing stimulates a part often we hope to break a bad habit or initi- special events you are looking forward to. of your brain (the reticular activating sys- ate a difficult one, “This year I will …” lets Then delve into your desires of what you tem) that filters out the unnecessary and you look forward to all that the new year would like to see take place during this non-urgent and latches on to what is rel- will bring with anticipation. And it keeps calendar year. evant to the stated goal. generating enthusiasm long after others’ Consider also creating a list that you “Once you write down a goal, your brain resolutions have died. can share together: “This year we will…” will be working overtime to see you get it, So what will you do this year? There may be overlap between your indi- and alert you to the signs and signals that Lara Krupicka is the author of “Family vidual lists and the shared list. It doesn’t were there all along,” Klauser explains. Bucket Lists: Bring More Fun, Adventure & matter. The important thing is that you In practical terms, it means that you will Camaraderie Into Every Day” and mom to take the opportunity to look ahead at how pause and pay attention when information three girls who have plenty they plan to make you will spend time as a family. related to one of your “This year I will” happen in 2017.
6 Manhattan Family • January 2017 mind over matter Give the Gift of a Personal Trainer!
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January 2017 • Manhattan Family 7 Kids & TV Ratings, recommendations, and guidelines for parents
By Myrna Beth haskell gist, co-author of “Unplug: Raising Kids “In terms of negative in a Technology Addicted World” and knew a mom several years ago who founder of Technology Wellness Center had a “no TV” policy. She was ada- programming, I always (www.technologywellnesscenter.com), I mant about a television-free environ- reports, “The American Academy of Pe- ment, so she didn’t own one. What she say that turning on any diatrics (AAP) recommends no televi- may not have known was that her son sion for children under the age of 2. For would visit his friends’ houses and make media is like opening the children older than 2, the recommenda- a beeline for the tube, instead of choos- door to your living room. tion is no more than one to two hours of ing to play soccer down at the park or go quality programming a day. TV watching for a bike ride. Would you let kids in who and technology use can impede valu- Television programming has changed able developmental activities like explor- immensely in the last 20 years. There are were being violent, mean ing, playing, and interacting with others. so many choices that it can make one These functions are vital to learning dizzy at times. Part of the positive aspect to each other, or making and healthy physical and social develop- of this change, however, is that there are fun of other kids?” ment.” plenty of quality choices available. Experts also remind parents that TV Perhaps the quandary for parents time includes watching programs on the today is not if their children should watch computer and iPad. TV but what they should watch and how school work, and family time. Dr. Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, a New often they should tune in. Parental con- “Television can be a source of learning York City-based clinical psychologist and trols as well as resource websites (i.e. and entertainment,” explains Dr. Sanam supervising psychologist for Family & www.commonsensemedia.org) provide Hafeez, a licensed neuropsychologist Children’s Services of Nantucket, says, parents with control and information and founder and director of Comprehen- “Don’t have it playing in the background. that they didn’t have decades ago. sive Consultation Psychological Services, Keep screens and other media out of P.C. (www.comprehendthemind.com). children’s bedrooms and do not use right How much is too much? “However, too much TV can take away before bedtime. There really isn’t a sub- Have you ever tried to have a con- from other activities, such as exercising, stitute for reading to a child in terms of versation with a child engrossed in his playing with friends, reading, and doing the boost this gives to early literacy and favorite TV show? It’s like trying to get homework.” the opportunities for interaction between your dog’s attention when he’s just gotten Hafeez warns parents of additional parents and children.” a hold of his new, stuffed bone. He knows concerns. If televisions are not in children’s bed- you’re there, but he’s too busy chomping “Studies have shown that kids who rooms, the battle is half won, because it to acknowledge you. watch too much TV are more likely to be will be easier to monitor screen time if Balance is the operative word. Some- overweight, and depending on the con- the television is in a central location used times we all — parents included — need tent of what they see, more aggressive. by all family members. a bit of a break from the “real” world. Excess TV viewing has also been linked It’s not unhealthy if quality television to poor grades, sleep problems, and be- Quality programming programs are viewed in moderation and havioral problems.” What should parents look for in quality are not interfering with social activities, Dr. Lisa Strohman, a clinical psycholo- programming?
8 Manhattan Family • January 2017 Kids & TV Ratings, recommendations, and guidelines for parents
By Myrna Beth haskell gist, co-author of “Unplug: Raising Kids “In terms of negative in a Technology Addicted World” and knew a mom several years ago who founder of Technology Wellness Center had a “no TV” policy. She was ada- programming, I always (www.technologywellnesscenter.com), I mant about a television-free environ- reports, “The American Academy of Pe- ment, so she didn’t own one. What she say that turning on any diatrics (AAP) recommends no televi- may not have known was that her son sion for children under the age of 2. For would visit his friends’ houses and make media is like opening the children older than 2, the recommenda- a beeline for the tube, instead of choos- door to your living room. tion is no more than one to two hours of ing to play soccer down at the park or go quality programming a day. TV watching for a bike ride. Would you let kids in who and technology use can impede valu- Television programming has changed able developmental activities like explor- immensely in the last 20 years. There are were being violent, mean ing, playing, and interacting with others. so many choices that it can make one These functions are vital to learning dizzy at times. Part of the positive aspect to each other, or making and healthy physical and social develop- of this change, however, is that there are fun of other kids?” ment.” plenty of quality choices available. Experts also remind parents that TV Perhaps the quandary for parents time includes watching programs on the today is not if their children should watch computer and iPad. TV but what they should watch and how school work, and family time. Dr. Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, a New often they should tune in. Parental con- “Television can be a source of learning York City-based clinical psychologist and trols as well as resource websites (i.e. and entertainment,” explains Dr. Sanam supervising psychologist for Family & www.commonsensemedia.org) provide Hafeez, a licensed neuropsychologist Children’s Services of Nantucket, says, parents with control and information and founder and director of Comprehen- “Don’t have it playing in the background. that they didn’t have decades ago. sive Consultation Psychological Services, Keep screens and other media out of P.C. (www.comprehendthemind.com). children’s bedrooms and do not use right How much is too much? “However, too much TV can take away before bedtime. There really isn’t a sub- Have you ever tried to have a con- from other activities, such as exercising, stitute for reading to a child in terms of “Look for educational content, respect- creator of the current hit, “Daniel Ti- ‘Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood’ fits this versation with a child engrossed in his playing with friends, reading, and doing the boost this gives to early literacy and ful language, take-home messages or les- ger’s Neighborhood” (PBS Kids) as well bill because of its socio-emotional sto- favorite TV show? It’s like trying to get homework.” the opportunities for interaction between sons which are congruent with your val- as “Blue’s Clues” (Nick Jr.) and “Super rylines, preschool musical strategies your dog’s attention when he’s just gotten Hafeez warns parents of additional parents and children.” ues, and what you feel are important per- WHY!” (PBS Kids). She advocates televi- about sharing, going to the potty, dealing a hold of his new, stuffed bone. He knows concerns. If televisions are not in children’s bed- spectives you would like your children to sion viewing in moderation: a good bal- with disappointments, and trying new you’re there, but he’s too busy chomping “Studies have shown that kids who rooms, the battle is half won, because it have towards their fellow human beings,” anced diet of healthy media! foods. These are life lessons that this to acknowledge you. watch too much TV are more likely to be will be easier to monitor screen time if says Tausig-Edwards. When it comes to preschoolers, San- young age group is able to grasp with mu- Balance is the operative word. Some- overweight, and depending on the con- the television is in a central location used “I’ve always recommended a rich diet tomero counsels, “Interacting and physi- sical strategies that help and guide both times we all — parents included — need tent of what they see, more aggressive. by all family members. of good, quality educational media that cal touch is the most important stimu- parents and kids together.” a bit of a break from the “real” world. Excess TV viewing has also been linked kids are interested in, want to talk about, lation for babies and toddlers. When “Go with calm, quiet programs. Slower- It’s not unhealthy if quality television to poor grades, sleep problems, and be- Quality programming and want to learn more from,” explains television is introduced, it should be at paced viewing gives small children time programs are viewed in moderation and havioral problems.” What should parents look for in quality Angela Santomero, a child development a slower pace so that it is not overstimu- to think and absorb. Lots of random activ- are not interfering with social activities, Dr. Lisa Strohman, a clinical psycholo- programming? expert, TV executive producer, and co- lating. Continued on following page
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 9 ity, like the kind in action-adventure car- toons, confuses them,” Hafeez describes. “Instead, choose simple programs that em- How to interpret TV ratings phasize interactivity. Ideal shows inspire Here are Dr. Strohman’s explana- geared toward children, your child to make sounds, say words, tions of Federal Communications but they are appropriate sing, and dance.” Commission (FCC) ratings. for all ages by most par- ents. They do not con- Santomero suggests the following shows Ratings directed tain excessive violence, for various age groups: towards children: expletives, or sexual ref- For preschoolers: TV-Y: These programs are not erences. “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” (PBS expected to frighten or upset TV-PG: These pro- Kids: Socio-emotional) young children as they are spe- grams may contain some “Creative Galaxy” (Amazon.com Inc.: cifically designed for viewers violence, some suggestive Art) between the ages of 2 and 6. or sexual material, and occa- “Super WHY!” (PBS Kids: Literacy) TV-Y7: These programs fea- sional strong language. They “Blue’s Clues” (Nick Jr.: Kindergarten ture fantasy that young chil- are likely not appropriate for readiness show) dren may not have the develop- young children to watch unat- mental skills to understand and tended, but are acceptable for For young kids: are typically not appropriate for older children. “Wild Kratts” (PBS & PBS Kids: Adven- children under 7. The make-believe TV-14: Parents are cautioned to ture learning) plot lines are more likely to frighten not allow children under 14 to view “Wishenpoof!” (Amazon.com: Adven- young children. these programs without supervi- ture learning) sion. These programs might include “Word Girl” (PBS & PBS Kids: Literacy) Ratings directed toward overtly sexual situations, inappropri- general audience: ate dialogue, indecent language, or For tweens: TV-G: These are not “specifically” graphic violence. “Master Chef Jr.” (FOX: Cooking) “Project Runway Jr.” (Lifetime: Fashion creation) Tausig-Edwards points to Albert Ban- ship can and should be.” “The Amazing Race” (CBS and Travel dura’s seminal work in this area. Channel: Reality adventure) “The work showed that children are Some general guidelines “The Gilmore Girls” (Warner Bros. and affected by instrumental violence. For “Overall, I believe in watching age- Netflix: Family drama) example, if they see it, they are likely to appropriate content that is enriching “Fuller House” (Sequel to “Full House.” try it subsequently. Content is crucial and inspiring,” says Santomero. “I also Netflix Original Series: Family drama) as children are not able to differentiate believe that, as a parent, you are doing between real and cartoon violence until your best when you are interested, ac- For teens: they are much older.” tive, and involved in what your kids are “Downton Abbey” (PBS: Period drama Hafeez agrees. doing. Get into the content that they are series) “Younger children tend to model be- watching as deeply as possible. Read “Friends” (Reruns on TBS and NIK: havior they see and don’t always un- the books, play the app, do related ac- Comedy drama) derstand the difference between reality tivities, or just sit over a snack and have Also recommended for teens: and entertainment. Therefore, exposure a good old-fashioned discussion about “Scorpion” (CBS: Tech-driven drama se- to sex and violence through the me- your child’s favorite show.” ries) dia’s influence can cause aggressive or Hafeez advocates critical viewing. “Bunheads” (Freeform: Dance drama) anti-social behavior. Media can influence “Even young children can learn to “The Fosters” (Freeform: Family about children to believe violence is a good so- watch without ‘tuning out.’ Encourage foster teens) lution to solve problems or desensitize your child to ask questions and relate and cause a lack of empathy for human what’s happening in the show to her own What to avoid suffering.” life. For example, if you and your toddler Santomero advises, “In terms of nega- In terms of the consequences of being have just finished watching a ‘Sesame tive programming, I always say that turn- exposed to sex and violence on televi- Street’ segment that introduces a num- ing on any media is like opening the door sion, Dr. Hafeez states, “Kids exposed to ber, talk about it later and find other to your living room. Would you let kids sex on TV are almost twice as likely to ini- examples to show him. While setting the in who were being violent, mean to each tiate sexual intercourse. Some research table you might say, ‘Hey, today’s number other, or making fun of other kids? De- suggests that kids who watch violence was 3, and there are 3 places to set!’ ” pending on the age of your child, the im- on TV are more likely to display aggres- All experts advise encouraging social mersive experience of media creates an sive behavior.” For young children, she activities that draw kids away from ob- image that can hardly ever be erased, so suggests that scary shows be avoided sessing about what’s on the screen. be careful of what stories you decide to as well. have your kids be part of and what char- Santomero adds, “Watching violence Myrna Beth Haskell is an award-winning acters you want your kids to be friends on television is not only a modeling con- author, columnist, and feature writer. Her work with. Also, be ready to talk about any and cern for kids, but might also motivate has appeared in national and regional pub- all issues that they see.” kids to be more violent in nature. Watch- lications across the U.S. as well as interna- Experts have studied the effects of vio- ing sexual content, before [one is] ready, tionally (www.myrnahaskell.com). She is also lent and sexual content affecting young could cause confusion or lack of under- cofounder and senior editor of “Sanctuary” viewers’ behavior for decades. standing about what a positive relation- (www.sanctuary-magazine.com).
10 Manhattan Family • January 2017 Come Play Preschool
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January 2017 • Manhattan Family 11 This kid’s got chops NYC cooking prodigy tells us about his prize-winning dish
By Shnieka L. JohnSon
en’s Beginners is an interactive program and contest that aims to B make cooking an activity that bring families together. Offering a cash prize to kitchen-savvy kids, the contest is simple: submit a photo of you and your family making a rice-based dish together to the Uncle Ben’s rice company. Manhattan sev- enth grader and cooking prodigy Jesse Gunn did just that. His “Lop Chung Fried Rice” earned him $15,000 and an additional $30,000 for his school. Thanks to Gunn’s creativity in the kitchen, the East Side Community School will now have a lunchroom makeover. Gunn shared his experience with us. Shnieka Johnson: Who taught you to cook? Jesse Gunn: My dad taught me how to cook. His favorite thing to tell me is noth- ing is hard, you just have to try and learn Matt Hurst, Corporate Affairs Manager at Mars Food North America, and Ben’s Beginner’s recipe from your mistakes. He is not a chef, just a winner Jesse Gunn celebrate Jesse’s prize — $30,000 for his school’s lunchroom makeover. foodie. We spend a lot time together in the kitchen with me cooking and him cutting perimenting, but the most fun is when I do to help our school with the cafeteria make- onions and cleaning up after me, ha! We molecular gastronomy. It’s like doing sci- over and help promote healthier eating. work as a team. We get to talk about the ence, which is one of my favorite subjects. SJ: Do you want to go into culinary day, video games, our next projects, and SJ: Who do you cook with now? arts? things like that. JG: I cook with my dad and sometimes JG: At the moment, I have been asked SJ: At what age did you start cooking? my friends come over and they want to to do a series of cooking videos called JG: I started helping my dad in the learn how to make something. I have cook- “Recipes from the Studio.” kitchen when I was really young by stir- ing play dates, and I show them how to The guys Manny and Peter are great, I ring and mixing ingredients. Later on, make French macaroons, profiteroles, Chi- get to cook whatever I want. I am involved my dad got me interested in tasting new nese food, and other things. Other times in a lot of cool things in addition to cook- things. When I was 8, I used to watch “Bi- I cook with other chefs doing demos or ing. I love music and playing guitar. I am in zarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern” and teaching classes. two bands right now, and we play out in began to start eating things like chicken SJ: What inspired your dish? nightclubs like the Bitter End, where Bob feet, tripe, snails, and frogs But I really JG: We came up with a lot of amazing Dylan and Janis Joplin used to play. I am got into cooking when I was 10. I had seen dishes, like rice pudding, crème brulee, also into building and designing drones. “MasterChef Junior,” and I saw how good mango sphere on top of coconut rice on I have been building them since I was 8 those kids were and was a little sad — I a bed of Crème Anglaise, but the rice dish years old and right now, I am the young- thought I could never be that good. But we posted, I think 15 minutes before the est professional drone training pilot in the my dad asked me if I would be interested contest ended, was Lop Chung fried rice world. I have trained more than 700 people in trying out. I said “no,” so he said, “ok, with transformation egg. What makes our how to fly a drone. I do this with the aerial well, I can teach you if you really want to fried rice different is that almost every sports league at the Maker Faires across do it.” So for the next six to seven months, fried rice dish uses a plain scrambled egg. the country. I was cooking with him three times a week. We put umami in ours. If you’re passionate about something Each week, it was always something differ- It is based on a Japanese dashimaki and put the time and work into it, no mat- ent and harder, reinforcing the basics and tamago-styled scramble egg, which is full of ter what it is — sports, science, music, art, learning new techniques. At the last min- umami, which totally changes the egg to a writing, school, or cooking — you will see ute, my dad entered me into “MasterChef.” I different flavor — sweet, salty, savory, sour results. Anyone can cook, you just have to lasted eight episodes and went out on team — and plays with your taste buds. The sec- get in the kitchen and start! challenge. Since the show, I have learned ond reason is anyone can make fried rice Shnieka L. Johnson is an education consul- and improved so much, and with cooking super easy and every ingredient is inter- tant and freelance writer. She is based in Man- you never stop learning! changeable, so if you don’t have Lop Chung hattan, where she resides with her husband SJ: Have you always enjoyed it? — Chinese sausage — you can use chicken and son. Contact her via her website: www. JG: Yes, I love trying new things and ex- or sausage beef. We really wanted to win shniekajohnson.com.
12 Manhattan Family • January 2017 Fall–Winter 2015–2016 FREE NEW YORK SPECIAL CHILD www.NYParenting.com NEW YORK This kid’s got chops The risks of misdiagnosis
How social media NYC cooking prodigy tells us about his prize-winning dish supports parents SPECIAL Strategies for language
4 inspiring By Shnieka L. JohnSon success stories CHILD EliminatingLONG ISLAND Fall/Winter 2014 –2015 en’s Beginners is an interactive problemSPECIAL foods CHILDFREE program and contest that aims to 200+www.NYParenting.com resources make cooking an activity that bring Motivate B your children families together. Offering a cash prize to LONG ISLAND DIAGNOSING kitchen-savvy kids, the contest is simple: PANDAS submit a photo of you and your family Nursery through 8th grade (ages 3-13) making a rice-based dish together to the City museums offer SPECIAL access French and American curricula Uncle Ben’s rice company. Manhattan sev- programs with an international perspective enth grader and cooking prodigy Jesse Gunn did just that. 150+ CHILD Mandarin introduction in 3rd grade resources and Spanish in Middle School Spring–Summer 2016 His “Lop Chung Fried Rice” earned him FREE $15,000 and an additional $30,000 for his WESTCHESTER/ROCKLAND 3 campus locations around Madison Square Park school. Thanks to Gunn’s creativity in the SPECIAL CHILD www.NYParenting.com kitchen, the East Side Community School WESTCHESTER/ Advocating OPEN HOUSE DATES will now have a lunchroom makeover. for your child ROCKLAND Gunn shared his experience with us. The stigma Thursday, January 12 - 6:00 PM Shnieka Johnson: Who taught you to of medication Wednesday, January 25 - 8:15 AM habits for cook? effective parenting SPECIAL Jesse Gunn: My dad taught me how to 7 TO SCHEDULE A PRIVATE TOUR, VISIT EINY.ORG Recognizing cook. His favorite thing to tell me is noth- auditory issues Matt Hurst, Corporate Affairs Manager at Mars Food North America, and Ben’s Beginner’s recipe 111 East 22nd Street, New York , NY 10010 | 646.410.2238 ing is hard, you just have to try and learn 150+ CHILD from your mistakes. He is not a chef, just a winner Jesse Gunn celebrate Jesse’s prize — $30,000 for his school’s lunchroom makeover. resources foodie. We spend a lot time together in the kitchen with me cooking and him cutting perimenting, but the most fun is when I do to help our school with the cafeteria make- Trusted since 2008 onions and cleaning up after me, ha! We molecular gastronomy. It’s like doing sci- over and help promote healthier eating. work as a team. We get to talk about the ence, which is one of my favorite subjects. SJ: Do you want to go into culinary Informing & enriching day, video games, our next projects, and SJ: Who do you cook with now? arts? things like that. JG: I cook with my dad and sometimes JG: At the moment, I have been asked SJ: At what age did you start cooking? my friends come over and they want to to do a series of cooking videos called “Special Needs” families JG: I started helping my dad in the learn how to make something. I have cook- “Recipes from the Studio.” throughout NYC, Long Island kitchen when I was really young by stir- ing play dates, and I show them how to The guys Manny and Peter are great, I ring and mixing ingredients. Later on, make French macaroons, profiteroles, Chi- get to cook whatever I want. I am involved & Westchester/Rockland my dad got me interested in tasting new nese food, and other things. Other times in a lot of cool things in addition to cook- things. When I was 8, I used to watch “Bi- I cook with other chefs doing demos or ing. I love music and playing guitar. I am in For more information about distribution zarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern” and teaching classes. two bands right now, and we play out in began to start eating things like chicken SJ: What inspired your dish? nightclubs like the Bitter End, where Bob or how to get your free copy, feet, tripe, snails, and frogs But I really JG: We came up with a lot of amazing Dylan and Janis Joplin used to play. I am please e-mail us at [email protected]. Harlem Hebrew is a tuition-free dual-language public got into cooking when I was 10. I had seen dishes, like rice pudding, crème brulee, also into building and designing drones. charter school focusing on an immersion approach to “MasterChef Junior,” and I saw how good mango sphere on top of coconut rice on I have been building them since I was 8 Visit us online at Modern Israeli Hebrew and the study of Israeli culture those kids were and was a little sad — I a bed of Crème Anglaise, but the rice dish years old and right now, I am the young- and history. All are welcome! We have two (and thought I could never be that good. But we posted, I think 15 minutes before the est professional drone training pilot in the www.NYParenting.com my dad asked me if I would be interested contest ended, was Lop Chung fried rice world. I have trained more than 700 people sometimes three) teachers in a classroom throughout in trying out. I said “no,” so he said, “ok, with transformation egg. What makes our how to fly a drone. I do this with the aerial the day and provide our students with outstanding well, I can teach you if you really want to fried rice different is that almost every sports league at the Maker Faires across Like us on our Facebook page, NYParenting instruction across all curriculum areas.* Come visit to do it.” So for the next six to seven months, fried rice dish uses a plain scrambled egg. the country. or follow us on Twitter learn more about us! Tuesday morning tours are available I was cooking with him three times a week. We put umami in ours. If you’re passionate about something by appointment: Email: [email protected] Each week, it was always something differ- It is based on a Japanese dashimaki and put the time and work into it, no mat- ent and harder, reinforcing the basics and tamago-styled scramble egg, which is full of ter what it is — sports, science, music, art, To advertise your business and or services *As with all public schools, we are non-sectarian and do not teach religion. learning new techniques. At the last min- umami, which totally changes the egg to a writing, school, or cooking — you will see contact us at 718-260-4554 147 St. Nicholas Ave. • New York, NY 10026 ute, my dad entered me into “MasterChef.” I different flavor — sweet, salty, savory, sour results. Anyone can cook, you just have to or e-mail us at [email protected] lasted eight episodes and went out on team — and plays with your taste buds. The sec- get in the kitchen and start! Ph: 212-866-4608 challenge. Since the show, I have learned ond reason is anyone can make fried rice Shnieka L. Johnson is an education consul- and improved so much, and with cooking super easy and every ingredient is inter- tant and freelance writer. She is based in Man- New York Parenting/CNG you never stop learning! changeable, so if you don’t have Lop Chung hattan, where she resides with her husband 1 MetroTech Center North - 10th Fl. • Brooklyn, NY 11201 SJ: Have you always enjoyed it? — Chinese sausage — you can use chicken and son. Contact her via her website: www. 718-260-4554 • [email protected] www.harlemhebrewcharter.org JG: Yes, I love trying new things and ex- or sausage beef. We really wanted to win shniekajohnson.com.
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 13 First-date jitters Daughter’s first dance brings out mom’s teen nostalgia
By Kara Martinez BachMan
his weekend, I had the first-date jitters. My heart raced a little. My T hands shook. My nerves were on fire. As the big day neared, I had made sure everything was perfect. Shoe heels: high enough to be attractive, but not high enough to attract the wrong glances. Dress: Just the right amount of sparkle — but not too much! (Remember: there’s a fine, but very important, line between “Frozen” snow queen and over-the-top drag queen.) Makeup: just a touch, on the eyes only. When the day of the winter dance came, the big event was the first thought I had when waking up and the last I had before going to sleep. My daughter had a blast. Yeah, the big date was, of course, hers. At age 46 and married for more than 20 years, I’m a little old for first dates. And believe me, if for some reason I had one, I’d spend less time worrying about how I looked and more concerned with whether I’d brought a Tylenol, two antacid tablets, and if I’d make it home before the news started. When I was her age, there was no eighth-grade dance. Not the kind where anyone brought dates, at least. These days, though, things are different. Every- thing seems to happen at younger and younger ages. I wonder why that is, why there’s a mad rush on for childhood to start — and thus, end — sooner. Why? Does everyone want vously with her date and posed for a few report card, or wait on medical test re- to just “get it over with,” so our children awkward photos; when I adjusted her wrist sults, or when it’s almost midnight and our can move on to more important things, corsage — because it was too loose — and oldest child is still not home such as making money and continuing the felt a misty hint of tears well up; when she When the genie’s popped out of the competitive climb? left the house beaming, but returned say- bottle, all we can do is watch, wait, and go It’s sad to rush something so precious ing, “Well, that was okay, I guess. Nobody ahead and take those two antacid tablets, and brief. Rushing the years of first dates danced much … ”; the genie of nostalgia hoping she uses her three wishes wisely. and terrible, but exciting, kisses is a mis- was on the loose. Kara Martinez Bachman is author of the take. I look back on those times, and I wish In the end, her first date at winter dance humorous essay collection, “Kissing the Crisis: I could grab and hold them. I wish I could was more about the preparations than the Field Notes on Foul-mouthed Babies, Disen- bottle up those sweet teen days and set thing itself, just as it was for me back in chanted Women, and Careening into Middle the bottle (it would be pink) on my fire- the 1980s. Age.” She’s read her work on NPR, and it has place mantle. I wish, maybe every decade It was more about what was to come, appeared in dozens of magazines and news- or so, I could open the bottle and release a a reminder to me that I’d some day lose papers, including The Writer, Funny Times, the tiny whiff of carnation corsages and punch her, and a herald of all the dreams of most New Orleans Times-Picayune, and many more. bowl punch and let a bit of that genie out of every girl: marriage, children, friends, job. She is managing editor of Parents & Kids–Gulf the bottle. Just for a minute. And as every mom knows, our jitters may Coast, Parents & Kids–Pine Belt, and Parents & And that’s kind of what happened this momentarily subside as dance night winds Kids–MS Delta magazines in Mississippi. Find weekend. When my daughter stood ner- down, but still crop up when we open the out more at KaraMartinezBachman.com.
14 Manhattan Family • January 2017 Opening in New York in September 2017
Wetherby-Pembridge School will be located progressive student-centred teaching on the Upper East Side, in a superb building approach. Wetherby-Pembridge School is next to Central Park on East 96th Street. part of the prestigious Alpha Plus Group. The school will off er a bespoke curriculum It will bring to New York the rich traditions model combining the rigorous British and academic excellence that are at the heart National Curriculum with New York’s of its thriving UK schools.
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For further information on our events please contact us at [email protected] T: 212.328.9529
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 15 Activity Directory
Language Arts Collina Italiana 4 Weeks Upper East Side / Financial District for $149 1556 Third Avenue & A free Next evolutioN & MARtiAl ARtS uniform 165 William Street Kioto BRAziliAN Jiu JitSu 212-427-7770 1786 Third Ave. AT 99Th sT • 212-828-5678 www.collinaitaliana.com Italian classes allow children to benefit from a comprehensive approach to learning in an age-appropriate and inviting atmo- “We are a Reading in Preschool family. We hired them since my sphere. Classes for children, which consist of three to eight daughter was reading ready but not overly interested in books. In all students, include Girotondo, Il Giardino dei Bambini (drop-off honesty, I saw her interest in reading immediately increase after the fi rst lesson. 6 sessions later my daughter is reading simple words where on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 9-12) and Paint with Italian ever she goes. Bottom line, if you want money well spent buy this class.” (Art Workshop). Children gather around to share learned words — Valoree H. - UWS and expressions through playful, skill-building activities such as games, songs, dances and stories. For all the bellissimi details on Collina Italiana, call the Italian instructors today. ReadingReadingin in Preschool Learning Enrichment Preschool Bright Kids, Inc. ReadinginPreschool.com | 917-723-1159 225 Broadway, Suite 1504 [email protected] | [email protected] 177 E 87th Street, Suite 402 646-434-1084 www.bright-kids.com New York’s premier tutoring and publications company was founded in 2009 by a Harvard Business School graduate and mother of three who wanted a high quality institution to cater WeSTcheSTer FAMi ly to young children who need admissions-based test preparation. 2017 It’s now a full-service tutoring and publications company special- izing in test prep and subject tutoring for elementary, middle, and high school students. The company utilizes technology to produce unforgettable experiences for students and their fami- lies. Almost every tutoring package begins with a diagnostic or assessment to determine a student’s strengths and areas of improvement. The team then uses these results to build a cus- YOU’RE INVITED tomized curriculum for each student. Try a session for only $40! Contact one of the offices today by visiting our website and find Meet the directors and representatives out how. of some of the best day camps and sleep away camps all under one roof. EBL Coaching Take your time speaking 17 East 89th Street or in your HOME with some of the best camp experts 212- 249-0147 in the camping world. www.eblcoaching.com Sending your child to camp EBL Coaching offers one-one-one HOME tutoring for students is a big decision — in grades pre-k to 12. They use research-based, multi-sensory make sure you select the right camp! strategies, including the Orton Gillingham technique, to develop Children are welcome to attend. reading, writing, reading comprehension, math, organization and study skills. They also offer three-week intensive academic summer programs at the elementary and middle school/high JANUARY 22, 2017 school levels. Students are initially assessed and then matched with one of EBL’s highly trained learning specialists. Sessions can Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club 555 S. Barry Ave., Mamaroneck be held at the home or at EBL’s Upper East Side learning center. From 1 to 4 p.m. Specialized tutorial programs for students with dyslexia and learning disabilities are available. For more information, visit WestchesterFamily.com/CampFair
Continued on page 18
16 Manhattan Family • January 2017 Special Advertising Section Galli Theater: Fairytale Theater for the Whole Family
Performances * School Shows=Qb]PS` ab * Parties *\R&bV'bV Workshops Help Your #bV $bVOb ^[ Snow White Dec. 31st,/ZORRW\ Jan. 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th Showtime:/ZORRW\( 2pm EVS\/ZORRW\¿\RaOUS\WSSnow White is a young woman Child SOAR! W\OZO[^VSQO\[OYS[OUWQwhose stepmother is jealous of her beauty. When the magical QO`^SbaÀgO\RVWaR`SO[a]Tmirror on the wall says that Snow One-On-One HOME Tutoring `WQVSaQ][Sb`cS 7\]`RS`b]White is the “fairest of them all,” eW\bVSZ]dS]TbVS^`W\QSaathe stepmother makes a plan to get Grades pre K-12 O\RaOdSbVSYW\UR][/ZORRW\Snow White out of the castle and eWZZ\SSR[]`SbVO\OUS\WS¸aout of her life forever! Recommended[OUWQ age: 3 years & older Hansel and Gretel Learning =Qb]PS`January \R 21st, !`R 22nd, 'bV! bVOb 28th, 29th ^[ BVSBV`SS:WbbZS>WUaShowtime: 2pm Disabilities BVSBV`SS:WbbZS>WUaHansel and Gretel are brought into 5]`Rg>S`YSgO\RA\]]hg^WUathe woods and cannot find their & ADHD VOdSZSTbbVS\SabO\R[cabPcWZRway back! A witch lures them into V]caSa]TbVSW`]e\ =\SaSbbZSaT]`her little house with all kinds of Instruction O_cWQY¿f BVS]bVS`^cbaOZWbbZStasty treats. Can clever Gretel trick SZP]eU`SOaSW\b]Wb 0cb]\Zg]\Sthe witch and get them bOYSabVSbW[Sb][OYSOV]caSbVObsafely back home? abO\Rac^b]bVS^S`aWabS\QS]TORecommended age: 5 years & older QS`bOW\e]ZT BVSE]ZT[OgVcTTO\R ^cTTPcbbVWaWa]\SV]caSVSQO\\]b Mid-Winter Acting Camp -PZ]eW\ Price: $410 Monday, February 20th • Friday, February 24th • 9am - 1pm
Galli Theater Tel: 212 731 0668 151 West 26th Street, 7fl. Email: [email protected] New York, NY 10001 www.gallitheaternyc.com For tickets, birthday parties,school shows and camps please visit gallitheaternyc.com, email us at [email protected] or call us at 212-731-0668
Winter New Location Improve up to Two Grade Levels session starts in the Financial Reading comprehension & writing January 30th District! Multi-sensory math Phonics instruction & reading fluency Girotondo (Circle of Fun) Ages 2-8 State test preparation An Italian language program which Study & organizational skills improves fluency through songs, stories, games and arts & crafts Orton-Gillingham based instruction Specialized programs for students with Il Giardino Dei Bambini Ages 2-5 dyslexia, ADHD, and learning disabilities. A drop-off playground. Children may join in on the fun every Mon., Tues. & Thurs. from Home tutoring available in NYC, 9-12 on an as needed basis. Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Westchester Painting Workshop Italian Art Workshop EBL Coaching • 212-249-0147 Tutoring Services 17 East 89th Street Inquire About Adult Classes or in your home! 1556 Third Avenue @87th, Suite 603 Dr. Emily Levy, Director 212.427.7770 www.collinaitaliana.com www.eblcoaching.com info@ collinaitaliana.com
Special Advertising Section January 2017 • Manhattan Family 17 Activity Directory
Continued from page 16 Reading In Preschool 917-723-1159 www.ReadingInPreschool.com Children are prepared and confident going back to school, thanks to the tutors of Reading in Preschool who teach advanced reading skills, and inspire children to love learning by using the learn through play method. Children as young as 3 years old are learning to read like first graders. Imagine how quickly a first grader could learn to read with this program. Your children deserve the best! Let them thrive in school and in life with this new found love for learning! *If you’re thinking of giving your 2 year old the opportunity to learn to read when they turn 3 or 4, call in today to get your spot on the waiting list!
Performing Arts The Galli Theater New York 151 West 26th Street, 7th Floor 212-731-0668 www.gallitheaternyc.com Galli Theater aims to spread joy to its audiences. Fairy tale adap- tations are never grim! Written by award-winning playwright and philosopher Johannes Galli, they’re humorous exciting, philosophical, and engaging. Actors ask the children to come on stage and interact with them. Children never have to sit quietly at the Galli Theater! Performances are Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm and are appropriate for children between the ages of 3-10 years old. They also offer birthday parties, school shows, workshops and camps. Visit gallitheaternyc.com or email [email protected] to find out more.
Sports Physique Swimming Afterschool FiDi 25 Pine Street Like us on 212-725-0939 www.physiqueswimming.com The After School Aquatics program at the Pine Street School located, in the heart of the Financial District, is offered on Mondays and Wednesdays with instructional swim at Seahorse Aquatics. Students are bused from Pine Street School to the pool. The specialized After School Swim Program offers supe- or follow us on rior instructional swimming with an emphasis technique on competitive level. It’s a great opportunity for beginners and for swimmers who are looking to enter the world of competition. Aquatic instruction is customized to your child’s swimming goals and needs. The pool at Seahorse features 5 lanes, 25 yards, starting blocks, 3.5 feet shallow in the shallow end and 10 feet deep in the deep end. It’s the perfect pool for beginner and advanced swimmers. Students return to Pine St School at 5pm for homework help, educational games and art. Facebook Search: NYParenting
18 Manhattan Family • January 2017 Special Advertising Section HealtHealtHhyy eating eating
Good sense eatinG ChrisTinE M. PaluMbo, rD
a whole-wheat crust. Try some new seasonings. Explore the herb and spice aisle and bring home a few that sound interesting. While you’re at it, clean out your spice cabinet by tossing any that have lost their fragrance. Clean out the refrigerator more often. At least once a month, pull everything out of the fridge and toss foods that are “ques- Ten easy nutrition tionable.” Wipe down the entire interior, then put things back with an eye on keep- ing more healthful foods front-and-center. Consider holding an end of week “buffet” resolutions for ’17 in order to use up leftover foods before they go bad. ew Year’s resolutions tend to focus than 200 households in New York over the Try some new whole grains. Cook on a few themes: Lose weight, stop course of seven months, we buy roughly up a pot of barley, quinoa, buckwheat, N smoking, and so forth. How about twice as many calories per serving in food brown rice, or wheat berries. Keep it in declaring some nutrition resolutions that in the first three months of the New Year the fridge and warm up a bowl at a time will benefit your family now and in the than during the holidays. Despite New for a rib-sticking breakfast once you add future? Here are a few resolutions to try Year’s resolutions to eat better, consum- chopped fruit (frozen or fresh), nuts, and a in 2017: ers buy the healthy foods they promised teaspoon of sugar. Plan meals more often. While it may themselves they would, along with the un- Put legumes on the menu every week. appear you simply don’t have time to do healthy foods they promised themselves Enjoy legumes such as beans, peas, and this, once you get into the habit, you’ll they wouldn’t. Whoops. lentils as a replacement for meat at least realize how much time and money this ul- Try a new vegetable each shopping one day a week. They’re near-perfect foods timately saves. Meal planning can impact trip. People who eat a wider variety of with loads of fiber, protein, folate, potas- your family’s eating habits as much as vegetables tend to be thinner, probably sium, iron, and other vitamins and min- anything else you do. because they’re displacing higher-calorie erals. Replace that side of rice, potatoes, Get out of your recipe rut. Admit it: foods. About half of all Americans’ vegeta- or noodles with beans or lentils. Cook up While you have an endless supply of reci- bles are iceberg lettuce, potatoes, onions, a pot of chili or bean soup in your slow pes at your disposal, you cook less than and canned tomatoes. Have the kids help cooker, and there’s dinner for a few days. 10 of them regularly. Set aside 30 minutes you with choosing something new and Or make a bean salad. on the weekend to comb your trove of look up creative ways to prepare it. switch from tuna to salmon. Canned recipes. Prepare a shopping list with ingre- Enjoy a familiar food in a new, un- salmon has more healthy omega-3 fats dients for one or two recipes you haven’t expected way. Pizza is the second most than canned tuna and the salmon is al- made in the last year. Try a new, healthful common entrée Americans consume. The most always wild. entrée once a week. number one type? Pepperoni and cheese Christine M. Palumbo is a registered dieti- Keep an eye on your food-purchasing pizza. There are ways you can shift to a tian nutritionist in Naperville, Ill. Her nutrition habits. Believe it or not, you’re likely buy- healthier pizza. Substitute vegetable top- resolutions are to use her slow cooker more ing more at this time of year than any pings for the pepperoni and use smaller often and to finally “nail” her homemade pizza other time. According to a study of more amounts of cheese. Some places even offer recipe.
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 19 Talking politics How to handle election discussion with your children
By Shnieka L. JohnSon thought that the outcome of the election disappointment in themselves, but also would change their lives. Most teens who their children’s dismay. Clinton said dur- s our country prepares to inau- took the poll also ranked issues — like gas ing her concession speech, “To all the little gurate its 45th president, Donald and food prices, education, health care, girls who are watching this, never doubt A J. Trump, it would be an under- war, and the environment — as “very im- that you are valuable and powerful and de- statement to say that there are still mixed portant” to them. serving of every chance and opportunity feelings amongst many Americans. The Regardless of personal politics, parents in the world to pursue and to achieve your election is over, and we must accept the are still tasked with promoting certain own dreams.” results, regardless of political designation. ideals in their children in the face of divi- Parents can use this moment as an op- As parents, we focus on our kids — their siveness surrounding our political leaders. portunity to show our kids how to voice questions, concerns, and opinions. Now Although we are no longer inundated with their opinions, respect others’ opinions, more than ever, children (as young as el- election coverage and advertisements, we and value differences. Start by sharing ementary aged) are politically informed. have not seen the end of negative talk on your own opinions on these subjects, and Due to social media and mass media our screens, which will continue to raise then ask your children their opinions. En- coverage, children engaged with their par- questions and reactions for children. Add- courage expression, questions, and feel- ents more than they might have during ing to the challenge in discussing the cur- ings, to ensure children become comfort- previous presidential election cycles. In rent news coverage with children is that able voicing these difficult emotions. fact, children are quite aware of the sig- parents may still be struggling with their Talking about the election result will nificance of this most recent election ac- own feelings about this election. add to their learning and critical-thinking cording to KidsHealth.org poll, where 75 For example, a task for parents who skills. It will also allow for you to hear their percent of kids and 79 percent of teens hoped Hillary Clinton would become the thoughts and correct any misconceptions. answered “yes” when asked whether they first female president, is how to cope with Maybe your child has fears about the fu-
20 Manhattan Family • January 2017 ture. Possibly something a candidate said or did while campaigning is still concern- Although we are no longer inundated with election ing to them. Actively listen to your child, her concerns, and reassure her, but also coverage and advertisements, we have not seen encourage her to think about the future. Let your children know that they can also the end of negative talk on our screens, which will make a difference in their greater com- munity, and help them think of things that continue to raise questions and reactions for children. they can do for others, or identify a cause that they can more actively support. Although it can be difficult at times to their emotions and learn to manage them and counting to 10 to diffuse anger, or decipher the complications of this elec- appropriately. using positive self-talk to overcome fear tion, parents must model a positive ex- or sadness. ample and provide support for their kids Managing emotions as the 45th president takes office. Research has shown that children — and Talking to teens adults — who can’t manage their emotions When children understand their own Strategies for have more difficulties academically, profes- feelings and those of others, they can act helping children sionally, socially, and psychologically. with self-control, compassion, and empa- Denise Daniels is a Peabody Award-win- It’s never too early, or too late, to begin thy. When teens have developed emotional ning broadcast journalist, author, and par- the process of helping children develop intelligence, they are better able to resist enting and child development expert, who “emotional intelligence” — so that they peer pressure and stay true to themselves. specializes in the social and emotional learn to act with civility and respect, de- When young adults act responsibly, development of children. She offers the spite any bad examples they may have they will vote with care and conviction. following strategies and discussion tips for seen during the election season. Our world — and our endless election helping children understand the election: cycles — will be better for it. Talking to kids Find this and other tips online at www. Actions and values Help older children feel comfortable denisedanielsparenting.com. We’re guided by our values, but we’re talking about their emotions by listening Shnieka Johnson is an education consultant judged by our actions. And actions, es- without judgement and emphasizing that and freelance writer. She is based in Manhat- pecially in children, are almost always all feelings are okay. Then teach your chil- tan where she resides with her husband and inspired by feelings. That’s why one of our dren strategies for managing their emo- son. Contact her via her website: www.shnieka- key jobs is to help our kids understand tions, whether it’s taking deep breaths johnson.com.
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January 2017 • Manhattan Family 21 Catholic Schools Directory
Our Lady of Pompeii School 240 Bleecker Street 212-242-4147 www.ladyofpompeii.org Principal- Sister Diane Mastroianni A Catholic elementary school located in the heart of Greenwich Village. Rooted in the love of the Heart of Christ, OLP promotes aca- demic excellence in an atmosphere that nourishes the spiritual, intel- lectual, emotional, physical, and moral development of each child while fostering a sense of community. While Building the City of God, Our Lady of Pompeii School continues to be a beacon of light in an ever-changing landscape and an oasis instilling Catholic values in students, in addition to providing rigorous academic preparation. For more information please call or visit our website.
The Mary Louis Academy 176021 Wexford Terrace, Jamaica Estates 718-297-2120 www.tmla.org Principal – Sister Kathleen McKinney The Mary Louis woman is offered an array of intellectually challeng- ing courses that provide academic foundation. Each student develops her program incorporating honors and advanced placement courses focusing on her strengths and interests and leading to a Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation. SMARTBOARD Technology is used throughout the school. Over 100 computers are available for student use. Guidance Counselors offer personal and academic counseling beginning in the first year. TMLA has a unique and extensive college program which focuses on acceptance to top level colleges and universities. Student talents are developed and interests cultivated through participation in more than 50 extracurricular clubs and activities.
Private/Independent Xaverian High School 7100 Shore Road, Bay Ridge School Guide 718-836-7100 x117 www.xaverian.org A Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory school in the tradi- tion of the Xaverian Brothers since 1957. A cutting edge, one-to- one learning environment with iPads for every student. Project and problem-based learning through hands-on classroom experiences within the Michael T. Strianese ’74 STEM Program, Xaverian’s highly acclaimed Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math curriculum in conjunction with Project Lead the Way. Private bus service is avail- able. Now offering Parent Tour Thursdays or spend a day on our campus as a “Clipper for a Day”.
Open HOuse January 10th & 31st, February 14th, March 14th
Our Lady of Pompeii School is a Catholic elementary school serving PreK-3 through grade 8 located in the heart of Greenwich Village. Come to one of our open houses to learn more about us!
West 4th Street: Our Lady of Pompeii School A, B, C, D, E, F, M trains; 240 Bleeker Street, NY NY 10014 Check it out on NYParenting.com Christopher St.:1 212.242.4147 | ladyofpompeii.org
22 Manhattan Family • January 2017 Special Advertising Section The Mary LouisThe MaryAcademy Louis Academy At The Mary Louis Academy, you will find your own voice — distinctive, confident, Atintelligent, The Mary Louis creative, and empowered — a voice that will be one of your greatest assets in life. At The Mary Louis Academy, you will find Academy, you will find your own voice— distinctive, confident, your own voice— intelligent, creative, and SHADOW A STUDENT distinctive, confident, empowered—a voice [email protected] intelligent, creative, and that will be one of your SHADOW A STUDENT greatest assets in life. empowered—a voice [email protected] that will be one of your 176-21 Wexford Terrace Jamaica Estates, NY 11432 greatest assets in life. Phone: 718-297-2120 Fax: 718-739-0037 VISIT OUR WEBSITE @WEARETMLA www.tmla.org #HILLTOPPERNATION 176-21 Wexford Terrace TACHS #016 The Mary Louis Academy is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood, New York. Accredited by the Middle States Association Jamaica Estates, NY 11432 of Colleges and Schools and Chartered by the State of NY. Phone: 718-297-2120 Fax: 718-739-0037 VISIT OUR WEBSITE @WEARETMLA www.tmla.org #HILLTOPPERNATION TACHS #016 176-21 Wexford Terrace, Jamaica Estates, NY 11432 • Phone: 718-297-2120 • Fax: 718-739-0037 • @WEARETMLA • #HILLTOPPERNATION • TACHS #016 The Mary Louis Academy is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood, New York. Accredited by the Middle States Association The Mary Louis Academy is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood, New York. Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and Chartered by the State of NY. of Colleges and Schools and Chartered by the State of NY.
V E R I A A N X
V E R I A A N X
R E M E R S A V I A P I A N I R C X E A S M T E A B L L A V O C . R M . Y R O E XAVERIANM N O S A K L Y N P I I R C E A M S T A B E L C . R L A V O R M . Y O E M XAVERIAN N OS A PK L Y N I I R C E A M S T A B E L L O C . R A M V Y O . XAVERIAN N Xaverian now offersO K L Y N VISIT US Parent Tour XaverianThursdays. now offers Spend a day onVISIT our campusUS as a Parent Tour Thursdays. Spend a day on our campus as a For more information,Xaverian contact now the offers “Clipper for aVISIT Day” US and For more Parentinformation, Tour Thursdays. contact the Spend“Clipper a day for on a Day” our campus and as a PRIVATE Admissions office at 718-836-7100 x117 experience what life is like as a Clipper PRIVATE AdmissionsFor more office information, at 718-836-7100 contact thex117 experience“Clipper what life for is likea Day” as aand Clipper BUS BUS Admissions office at 718-836-7100 x117 experience what life is like as a Clipper PRIVATE A Catholic, co-educational,A Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory college preparatory numer ousnumer AP,ous St. AP, John’s St. John’s University, University, and and Syracuse Syracuse SERVICEBUS SERVICE school in the traditionschoolA Catholic, in ofthe the tradition co-educational, Xaverian of the Brothers Xaverian college Brothers preparatoryUniversity University numercourses ouscourses AP, St. John’s University, and Syracuse AVAILABLE!SERVICEAVAILABLE! since 1957, Xaveriansinceschool 1957, offers: inXaverian the tradition offers: of the Xaverian Brothers University courses O CollegeO College placements placements at prestigious at prestigious schools schools AVAILABLE! OAsince cutting 1957, edge Xaverian, one-to-one offers: learning such as Brown University, Columbia University, OA cutting edge, one-to-one learning such as BrownO College University, placements Columbia at prestigious University, schools environment with iPads for every student Cornell University, Georgetown University, environment with OiPadsA cutting for every edge ,student one-to-one learning Cornell University,such as Br ownGeorgetown University, University,Columbia University, environment with iPads for every student MacaulayCornell Honors University, at CUNY, Georgetown New York University, University, O Project and problem-based learning throughMacaulay Honors at CUNY, New York University, O PrincetonMacaulay University, Honors Universityat CUNY, New of Notre York University,Dame, Project andhands- problem-basedO onProject classroom and problem-basedlearning experiences through within learning the through PrincetonUniversity PrincetonUniversity, of Pennsylvania, University, University University US of Military Notre of Notre Academy Dame, Dame, hands-on classroomMichaelhands- experiences T. Strianeseon classroom ‘74 within STEM experiences Program, the within the Universityat West Universityof Pennsylvania,Point, andof Pennsylvania, US Naval US MilitaryAcademy, US Military Academy with Academy the Michael T. StrianeseXaverian’sMichael ‘74 highlySTEM T. Strianese acclaimedProgram, ‘74 STEMScience, Program, Technology, at Westclass Point,at of West 2016 and Point, earningUS Navaland $36,880,924 US Academy, Naval Academy, in scholarships!with with the the Xaverian’s highlyEngineering, acclaimedXaverian’s and highly Science, Math acclaimed curriculum Technology, Science, in conjunction Technology, with Project Lead the Way class ofO 2016 Uniqueclass earning of extracurricular2016 earning$36,880,924 $36,880,924 offerings, in scholarships! includingin scholarships! Engineering, and MathEngineering, curriculum and Math in conjunction curriculum in conjunction with Project Lead the Way the Orenowned Unique extracurricularMAX (Music at Xaverian)offerings, including with Project LeadO College the Way counseling and Internship ProgramO Unique extracurricular offerings, including Program,the renowned as well as MAX a competitive (Music at Xaverian) athletic O CollegeO College credit counseling opportunities and Internship available through Programthe r enownedprogram forMAX boys (Music and girls at Xaverian) O College counseling and Internship Program Program, as well as a competitive athletic O College credit opportunities available Program,through asprogram well as for a boys competitive and girls athletic O College credit opportunities Foravailable more throughinformation, program please contactfor boys Xaverian’s and girls Office of Admissions at (718) 836-7100 x117 or [email protected] For more information,7100 Shore please Road, contact Brooklyn, Xaverian’s NY 11209 Office | www.xaverian.org/admissions of Admissions at (718) 836-7100 | TACHS x117 or #011 [email protected] For more information, please7100 contact Shore Xaverian’sRoad, Brooklyn, Office NY 11209 of Admissions | www.xaverian.org/admissions at (718) 836-7100 | x117TACHS or #011 [email protected] 7100 Shore Road, Brooklyn, NY 11209 | www.xaverian.org/admissions | TACHS #011
Special Advertising Section January 2017 • Manhattan Family 23 PARENTS A new year, and a new you ew year, new you, new be- ginnings! Wishing every- N one a FabuLyss New Year! I made a few New Year’s resolutions, FABULYSS FINDS and I look forward to keeping them. LYSS STERN A new year is like a blank book — the pen is in your hands. Now it’s your chance to write a beautiful story for yourself. Talking about stories, I cannot wait for you to read my new book. coming out in spring 2017. mandatory to see this show. It’s been • • • a few weeks since we saw the heart- The cutest new book that I piercing musical, and we cannot stop have been reading to my daugh- talking about what we experienced in the ter every night is “Curlee Girlee.” theater for the first time ever. From the Curlee Girlee’s hair makes her director of “Rent” and “Next To Normal,” mad! She wants it to grow down run (don’t walk) to see this show — you her back like spaghetti, not will thank me. sideways and all curly-whirly. “Dear Evan Hansen” at Music Box Theater Curlee Girlee wants to look like (239 W. 45th St. between Seventh and Eighth everybody else — and she’ll try avenues in the Theater District, http://dear- anything to solve her problem. evanhansen.com ). Then one day, she discovers • • • that her curly hair is perfect I hope everyone has a wonderful start just the way it is. Curlee Girlee to the new year! Another one of my New doesn’t need to look like everyone else to “Curlee Girlee” Year’s resolutions is to visit some of the be beautiful. After all, everyone is beauti- is available on Amazon.com. city’s tourist spots that my kids have ful inside and out. • • • never been to. I want to be a tourist in “Curlee Girlee” is written by Atara Sometimes there are Broadway shows my own city with my children. I want to Twersky, a New York City mom of three that affect you for a lifetime. Most re- take them to the top of the Empire State young children. Both myself and my cently, I took my 13-year-old son to see Building, on a trip to Ellis Island, and to young daughter have very curly hair, and “Dear Evan Hansen.” I will warn you, the Top of the Rock. I wish I could have read this book when I bring lots of tissues. I think every middle Lyss Stern is the founder of DivaLysscious was a young girl — many moons ago. school and high school should make it Moms (www.divamoms.com).
Surprise cookies 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract sheets, about two inches apart. Bake until cookies begin to spread and become firm, I am loving these surprise cookies from 12 large marshmallows, cut in half horizontally 10 to 12 minutes. Martha Stewart, who says she was inspired Chocolate frosting to make them by mugs of hot chocolate Remove baking sheets from oven, and place topped with marshmallows. DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. a marshmallow, cut-side down, in the cen- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ter of each cookie, pressing down slightly. INGREDIENTS cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt; set Return to oven, and continue baking until 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted marshmallows begin to melt, 2 to 2 1/2 3/4 cup cocoa powder with the paddle attachment, cream together minutes. butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool 1/2 teaspoon salt two minutes. Add egg, milk, and vanilla, and beat until well combined. Add reserved completely before frosting. Spread about 1 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened flour mixture; mix on low speed until com- tablespoon of frosting over each marshmal- 1 cup sugar bined. low, starting in the center and continuing 1 large egg Using a tablespoon or 1 3/4-inch ice cream outward until marshmallow is covered. 1/2 cup milk scoop, drop dough onto ungreased baking www.marthastewart.com/356831/surprise-cookies
24 Manhattan Family • January 2017 HealtHealtHhyy eating eating Smart snacking for cold weather
Tips for feeding kids Dawn lerman
hummus dipping sauce or turkey meat- balls dunked in warm vitamin C-loaded marinara sauce.
Serve it in a mug After school, kids are tired and hungry and need a quick, soothing pick-me-up. Nothing promotes a feeling of calm and comfort like warm liquids. Fill their mugs with magnesium loaded hot chocolate, sprinkled with blood stabilizing cinnamon, s the temperature drops, kids need satisfy their cravings while supplying vital or have them indulge in a cup of rich bone warm, nourishing foods to keep minerals and vitamins for optimal health: broth — infused with ginger, garlic and A their immune systems strong and turmeric — promoting healthy joints, im- their energy up. Snacks loaded with an- Serve it on a stick proved digestion, increased concentration tioxidants, spices, and superfoods as op- Kids eat with their eyes. The more fes- and a better night’s rest. posed to sugar and processed ingredients tive and colorful the presentation, the more will keep sniffles and sore throats at bay. likely they are to get excited about it. Warm your house With a couple of easy tricks, you can fill Try assorted roasted vegetables on a with sweetness your kids’ bellies with delicious treats that skewer with a protein-loaded sweet potato Nothing creates better memories than the aroma of brownies, granola, or muffins cooking in the oven. Baking from scratch ½ teaspoon salt Peanut butter love — the gives you the opportunity to infuse your best flourless Blondie 1 teaspoon baking soda children’s treats with superfoods like nut These peanut butter chip squares resemble ¾ cup dark, semisweet chocolate chips butters, flax seeds, eggs, and coconut oil. a Blondie or a nestles Toll House Cookie; Butter or oil for greasing the pan From the time my kids were old enough to only they are protein-loaded and contain DIRECTIONS: preheat oven to 325 hold a spoon, I let them cream the butter, zero flour — a winning combination for degrees. in a bowl, mix the peanut butter, crack the eggs, and fold in chips or raisins optimal taste and health. maple syrup, milk, and mashed banana. to whatever sweet snack we were making. Makes 12 squares Mash it all up and combine well. Then mix Kids feel a sense of pride and accom- plishment when they are involved in the INGREDIENTS: in the beaten eggs, vanilla, salt, and bak- ing soda. Mix together until well blended preparation process. Even picky eaters 16 ounces natural, no sugar-added peanut and smooth. stir in half the chocolate might be open to experimenting with new butter chips. pour the batter into a well-greased flavors, textures, and ingredients in the ½ cup pure maple syrup 8-inch-square pyrex dish. scatter the context of following the directions of a ½ cup original soy milk or nondairy milk remaining chips on top. recipe. of choice (i use nondairy milk that has Dawn Lerman — also known as the Snack- Bake for 55 minutes, checking after 15 about 7 grams of sugar per serving.) ing Mama — is a top Manhattan nutritionist, minutes to make sure the edges do not get founder of Magnificent Mommies, and the 1 ripe banana, mashed too brown. if the top looks very brown, author of the best-selling book, “My Fat Dad: A 2 eggs, beaten cover with foil and bake for the remaining Memoir of Food, Love and Family, With Reci- 1 teaspoon vanilla 40 minutes. Cool and serve. pes.” Follow her on Twitter@DawnLerman
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 25 PARENTS
JUST WRITE MOM DANIELLE SULLIVAN
because she didn’t have a man in her life. The pressure to have kids when you want them and can’t have them is nothing short of huge. Any kind of negative comment from a mother is damaging. And let’s not even go there about how plain horrifying it is to make a woman’s life all about land- ing a man. Don’t get dirty: Girls should experi- Hurtful words ence everything that boys can. One of my absolute favorite memories as a child was playing with the mud in my yard. Give me a What not to say to your daughters spoon, and I could dig for hours. You deny a girl a lot when you expect her to stay s there anything that matters more flower, but if her little girl is a tomboy, let clean all the time. Kids — boys and girls — to a little girl than what her mother her embrace who she is. If a mother is ob- were meant to explore, have adventures, I thinks of her? sessed with frilly dresses and shoes, she and sometimes, get dirty! Quite possibly, what her mother says should wear them, and not force them on What will the family, neighbors, or to her. her unwilling daughter. other girls think? So a girl doesn’t want to To some, a mother is a little girl’s whole Don’t be rude: Sometimes life calls go to a sleepover, join Girl Scouts, or dress world, so when she says something nega- for being rude. So many times, it calls for the way her friends do. Mothers should tive, her daughter takes it to heart (and standing up for oneself. The old-fashioned never have a girl question any decision by often keeps it in her psyche for years to (and disgusting) notion that girls need to asking what her family or friends would come). In teens, whose feelings are magni- be nice all the time creates people-pleas- think. Not unless they want the girl to fied times a thousand, one demoralizing ers — who please everyone else except make every decision based on what others comment can make her see herself in a themselves. think rather than what she thinks. terrible light, which can lead to low self- You can’t do that: Whether it’s become Put on some lipstick before you go: esteem. a scientist, win a contest, take that calcu- Which snidely means that how you look Even as adults, we don’t want to hear lus course, or become the next president, sans makeup is not good enough. More our mothers questioning our judgments any time you tell a girl she can’t do some- moms need to encourage girls that they in a condescending way. Yes, we do want thing, it creates a negative thought pattern don’t need to hide their faces under a their advice, but not their harsh criti- in her brain. Pretty soon she may internal- mountain of cosmetics. cism. ize that she really can’t do many things, Just smile: Or “Don’t look so angry, Luckily, it seems like many of us have and then of course, once she believes that, sad, or bored.” Every time you tell a girl surpassed the old-fashioned way of rais- she will stop trying. to mask her own feelings for the sake of ing girls, even though that is exactly how You are running out of time to have looking good for the neighbors, friends, or many of us were raised. Yet, there are kids: Words hurt even when you’re an family, you are telling a girl to hide how she many moms who still let some things slip adult. Remember the part in the movie really feels, which will only make her feel without even realizing the damage they “The Help,” when Emma Stone’s charac- much, much worse. If a girl is angry, for are doing. ter’s mother, Charlotte Phelan, told her God’s sake, let her be angry! With that in mind, here are some things daughter, “Your eggs are dying. Would it Have something to add to this list? Let a mother should never say to her daugh- kill you to go on a date?” If you do, then us know on Facebook! ter: you probably also remember how terrible Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, is a Be girlier: A mom might be a feminine she made her very smart daughter feel just writer and editor living in New York City.
26 Manhattan Family • January 2017 AdviceAdvice Teaching kids to clean up
Behavior & Beyond Dr. Marcie Beigel
packed away, give the job of closing the box to someone. Either you or him, doesn’t matter, as long as you say it aloud. “I am going to close the box now that all the pieces are away.” Putting the game back in the closet is another specified job. Assign it to some- one and then make sure that person does it. “You get to put the box back in the closet.” This is how you teach your kiddo to he holidays have come and gone. tinue to feel like a maid and frustrated clean up! Your home is now filled with new that games purchased two months ago Now, there are variables that can be T toys that will be played with and are useless. added. Wait to raise the bar until this then tossed aside, giving a new covering to Here is how you teach cleaning up: joint clean up is mastered. Then you can your carpet. You think to yourself, “What Play a game with your small being — start having him clean up toys when he would it take to get my children to actually together. plays independently. Providing the spe- clean up when they finish playing?” At the end, say, “Let’s clean up.” Then, cific elements to clean up will be a great You have heard that they clean up in give him a specific part of the game to way to support your kids accomplishing school. One catchy song from the teach- clean up, and you pick another part to the goal of getting all the pieces away. ers, and they are all about it. Yet, when clean up. This is a clear direction. Over time, you can reduce the details, you say “clean up” and then sing a song, “You put all the red pieces away, and I and your small being will be a fantastic nothing happens. will get all the green pieces.” cleaner upper! Day after day, you spend precious time Make sure you only put away your One day you will get super fancy and picking up Legos and puzzle pieces, figu- pieces and wait for him to clean up his. add in choices: “What piece do you want rines, and Zingo tiles. You realize, this is If there are then more pieces left, assign to clean up first?” why half the games can’t be played — the them to your small being or yourself. It’s a great goal to work towards, but pieces are lost in the piles of toys left When your small being pushes back, know that it is not a great place to start. unsorted. saying, “No, I don’t want to,” simply stick Start with clear directions and then move Enough! to your guns and repeat the direction. into choices. Today is the day that you start teach- Wait until he cleans up his pieces before Dr. Marcie Beigel is a behavioral therapist ing your small ones to clean up. Here another game can be started. Make sure based in Brooklyn. She has worked with thou- is the secret: cleaning up is a skill that to stock up on patience, as the first few sands of families for more than 15 years and needs to be taught. Just like the alphabet times you do this, it might take some time has condensed her observations into her prac- or tying shoes. If you teach them, they for him to realize you mean it. tice and programs. For more on her, visit www. will clean up. If you don’t, you will con- Once all the parts of the game are BehaviorAndBeyond.net.
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 27 ADVICE
ASK AN ATTORNEY ALISON ARDEN BESUNDER, ESQ.
other half going to any surviving chil- dren. And, there are many people who hold themselves out to be husband and wife (or spouses) but in fact are not le- gally married. New York State does not have common-law marriage. Often people lose sight of what is in- volved to administrate an estate, and Don’t have a will? the fact that it can be less organized and require additional paperwork than in a probate estate. For example, for unmar- ried persons, you can try to go to court Know the risks to have a judicial declaration of a mar- riage, but it is a high burden of proof and ust” is not justice. when someone pulls something off the an uphill battle, one that encounters legal People often think that if they internet and just has it notarized, or has costs. Those costs are always considered “J die without a will, everything will it witnessed by one of the beneficiaries in determining the cost-benefit analysis just get taken care of. named in the will. of whether to proceed in a certain di- “Oh, I don’t need a will. Everything There are rules about the order of pri- rection. Estate taxes can also be higher will just go to my spouse.” Or, “I don’t ority about who stands to inherit from an in those cases, where a decedent was need a power of attorney. Worst comes intestate estate and who has “standing” not actually married to his partner, who to worst, they’ll just get a guardian- — the right to petition to be the fiduciary now will not receive the assets of the ship.” of the person’s estate. The fiduciary is decedent because he or she has no legal Often, these statements are driven by called an “Administrator” and not an standing as a non-spouse. the speaker’s desire to avoid paying legal “Executor,” a term which applies to pro- Also, if there are minor children, those fees, making it easier to resort to his vi- bate estates where a decedent died with minor children are not legally competent sion of focusing on what he thinks is the a will. (By the way, in New York State, to own property. Therefore, the parent ultimate result — rather than the process female fiduciaries are no longer called must seek appointment as a Guardian of required in order to get there. “Executrix” or “Administratrix” since the the property in order to receive the as- When someone dies without a Last diminutive suffix was abolished by court sets, at which point those funds must be Will and Testament, the rules of descent rule in 1997, yet many people continue to held jointly with the Clerk of the Court, and distribution of property under the incorrectly use these terms.) and the Court’s permission is required laws of intestacy — that is, dying with- The application of the laws of intestacy for a withdrawal of those assets. out a will — apply. These rules also may have unintended consequences. For This puts the Court in control of the apply when someone leaves a will that example, the spouse does not take all. In- assets, and not the child’s parent. The is invalid and does not comply with the stead, the spouse takes the first $50,000, parent is then required to seek the Sur- formalities of the statute, for example, and then half of the remainder, with the rogate’s Court approval every time she
Disclaimer: This column is provided by Arden Besunder P.C. and New York Parenting Media as a public service to inform readers of legal issues. It is not intended to advise. Since legal issues vary with an individual’s situation and needs, one should consult with an attorney. It is impossible to cover all aspects of the law in an article. Please be advised that the laws are constantly changing. The content in this article reflects the current law. Nothing contained in this article is intended as advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and the firm. Individual consultation with an attorney is required to determine the specific facts and circumstances of any particular situation. A written retainer agreement between you and the firm is required before any attorney-client relationship may be created. Circular 230 Disclosure Notice: To ensure compliance with Treasury Department rules governing tax practice, we inform you that any advice contained herein (including in any attachment) (1) was not written and is not intended to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty that may be imposed on the taxpayer, and (2) may not be used in connection with promoting, marketing or recommending to another person any transaction or matter addressed herein.
28 Manhattan Family • January 2017 or he wants to access some of the child’s conservative family members and don’t Even though he was not culpable in his money for childcare expenses. In New speak with them once arriving in the Big wife’s death, the Court barred him from York County, the Guardianship depart- Apple. Nonetheless, in this case, blood taking in intestacy. ment has an unspecified rule (not cod- really is thicker than water, and they will Children who are “adopted out” may ified anywhere) that there should be stand to inherit if there is no will to stand also not inherit from the biological par- enough money left for the child to go to in the way of that situation. ent. Stepchildren are not included in the college. There are no guidelines for what Without a will, you lose the option of intestacy list, no matter how emotionally this means. College tuition at a state choosing the person who will administer close the relationship. school or a private university? an estate, or serve as trustee. Often in an You need to look no further than es- Although the child is legally entitled intestacy situation, in cases where there tates of celebrities to visualize what to whatever is left in the account once he is no one suitable to serve, or even where happens. Prince died unexpectedly this or she reaches the age of 18, many would there is no family, the Public Administra- year without a will. Now his estimated agree that no child should have access to tor will serve as fiduciary. This is a per- $300-million estate will be distributed large sums of money at 18, particularly son appointed by the Court to administer among six siblings. This is complicated when that child has experienced a trag- those estates that are without someone because of the nature of his assets. Un- edy like losing a parent. to serve. surprisingly, other potential heirs have In addition, there are certain factors In certain circumstances, even those surfaced claiming to be Prince’s out-of- that render a person ineligible to serve people who are otherwise entitled to take wedlock child, including a federal prison as a fiduciary, such as a felony convic- under the statute can be barred from inmate. tion. Although a will does not necessarily that entitlement. For example, a parent There are serious consequences to not overcome that statutory barrier, at least or spouse who abandoned the decedent leaving a valid will, yet nearly two-thirds you would be able to state why you want cannot inherit, nor can a person who of American adults fail to do so. Don’t be that person to serve notwithstanding the murdered the decedent or was culpable one of them. And remember that this is defect or barrier to serving. in their death (known as the “Son of Sam” not a “do-it-yourself” project. In other situations, the decedent might rule). Alison Arden Besunder is the founding at- not have gotten along with his or her A Surrogate Court recently took that torney of the law firm of Arden Besunder P.C., siblings, or parents, from whom he or logic one step further: A husband who where she assists new and not-so-new parents she was estranged, or distant cousins murdered his wife’s mother (his mother- with their estate planning needs. Her firm as- whom he or she never met. Often, people in-law). The wife — the heir of the mur- sists clients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, in same-sex relationships, particularly dered woman’s estate — post-deceased Nassau, and Suffolk Counties. You can find Ali- those who hail from the South or “fly her mother, also intestate, leaving her son Besunder on Twitter @estatetrustplan and over” states, had a falling out with their husband as the sole heir of her estate. on her website at www.besunderlaw.com. Digital CAMP “INGENIOUS BUBBLE WIZARDRY.” GUIDE -THE NEW YORKER
Telecharge.com or 212.239.6200 For gpgroups or birthdaysy call 866.642.9849 New World StageStagess 334040 W. 50t50thh St. Check it out on nyparenting.com GazillionBubbleShow.comGazillionBubbleShow.com
JanuaryMonth 2017 •2017 Ma •n XXXXXhattan Family Family 2923 Calendarjanuary
Who is the fairest of them all? Evil stepmothers, seven dwarfs, a magi- Will the handsome prince be able to cal kiss — it’s “Snow White” at the Galli save the day? Come and see for yourself. Theater, weekends now through Jan. 15. For children 3 years and older. Snow White is a young woman whose “Snow White,” weekends now through stepmother is jealous of her beauty. When Jan. 15. Show times are at 2 pm, box office the magical mirror on the wall says that opens 1:30 pm. Tickets are $20, $15 for Snow White is the “fairest of them all,” children, and $35 for a family combo. the stepmother makes a plan to get Snow Galli Theater [151 W. 26th Street between White out of the castle and out of her life Seventh and Sixth avenues in Chelsea, (212) forever! 731–0668; www.gallitheaterny.com].
30 Manhattan Family • January 2017 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
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Sun, Jan. 1 In Manhattan Come calling: Merchant’s House Museum, 29 E. Fourth St.; (212) 777–1089; 2 to 5 pm; $20 ($10 members). Paying calls on friends and family on New Year’s Day was one of Old New York’s most cherished customs. Join us for tours of the house, 19th-century readings about New All aboard for this show Year’s Day celebrations, and punch and con- fectionery, as we continue the 19th-century Hop aboard and come see the Holi- to the North Pole. This year’s ex- tradition of renewing, reviving, and reaffirm- day Train Show at Grand Central Termi- hibit showcases Lionel’s Grand Cen- ing friendships. nal now through Feb. 26. tral Express, Metro-North, Pennsylva- “Snow White”: Galli Theater, 151 W. 26th The 15th annual display features nia Flyer, Polar Express, and vintage Street, seventh floor; (212) 731–0668; www. iconic holiday images of a model train subway train sets against a backdrop gallitheaterny.com; 2 pm; $20 ($15 children; whirring by as it circles the base of designed for the museum’s 40th an- $35 combo). a brightly-lit tree, evoking feelings of niversary. Snow White is a young woman whose warmth and wonder in children and Holiday Train Show, weekdays now stepmother is jealous of her beauty. When adults alike. through Feb. 26, Monday to Friday, 8 am the magical mirror on the wall says that To the delight of all, Lionel trains to 8 pm; Saturday and Sunday 10 am to Snow White is the “fairest of them all,” the will journey along a 34-foot long, two- 6 pm. Free with museum admission. stepmother makes a plan to get Snow White level, “O” gauge model train layout, Grand Central Terminal (89 E. 42nd St. out of the castle and out of her life forever! departing from a miniature replica and Park Avenue in Midtown East, www. For children 3 and up. of Grand Central Terminal on its way nytransitmuseum.org/exhibits). Tues, Jan. 3 In Manhattan Thurs, Jan. 5 Sat, Jan. 7 American Dance Platform: Joyce The- In Manhattan In Manhattan ater, 175 Eighth Ave.; (212) 242–0800; www. Cross-Stitch Circle: New-York Historical Living History: New-York Historical So- joyce.org/performances/american-dance- Society, 170 Central Park West at 77th Street; ciety, 170 Central Park West at 77th Street; platform; 7:30 pm; Tickets start at $10. (212) 873–3400; nyhistory.org; 3:30 pm; Free (212) 873–3400; nyhistory.org; 11 am; Free Now in its second year, the American with museum admission of $19 adults, $6 with museum admission. Dance Platform initiative continues to show- children ages 5–12. Meet fascinating living historians and reen- case some of the most captivating Ameri- Beginning cross stitchers and younger chil- actors who bring the American Revolution to can companies performing today. This year’s dren will learn the basic stitch and create a life inside the museum, presented in conjunc- festival features an eclectic roster of artists, bookmark with their new skill. More sea- tion with our groundbreaking exhibition, The with each of the eight companies perform- soned stitchers and older children and adults Battle of Brooklyn. ing twice throughout a week of double bills. make a handcrafted gift for someone. Ages “Les Parfaits Inconnus”: Peter Jay Sharp Dedicated to the memory of Theodore S. 7 and up. Theatre, 155 W. 65th St. at West End Ave- Bartwink of the Harkness Foundation for American Dance Platform: 8 pm. Joyce nue; (212) 864–5400; www.symphonyspace. Dance. Theater. See Tuesday, Jan. 3. org; 11 am and 2 pm; $17 ($14 members). In this New York premiere, witness a crazy Wed, Jan. 4 adventure through the world of the circus, Fri, Jan. 6 where comedy, acrobatics, balancing, and In Manhattan In Manhattan juggling mingle with the festive rhythms of American Dance Platform: 7:30 pm. American Dance Platform: 8 pm. Joyce live music. Joyce Theater. See Tuesday, Jan. 3. Theater. See Tuesday, Jan. 3. “Night and Day”: David I Koch Theater,
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 31 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar
20 Lincoln Center Plaza; (212)-875–5456; 11 am and 2 pm; Free. Inspired by the jazz classic Night and Day, JoJo and the Pinecones celebrate the crazi- ness of our days and the joys of falling asleep through their fresh kid-friendly mix of classic jazz favorites and clever originals. For children 2 to 5 years old. “Snow White”: 2 pm. Galli Theater. See Sunday, Jan. 1. American Dance Platform: 2 pm and 8 pm. Joyce Theater. See Tuesday, Jan. 3.
Sun, Jan. 8 In Manhattan “Playing by Air”: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at W. 94th Street; (212) 864– 5400; www.symphonyspace.org; 11 am, 2 pm, and 3 pm; $17 ($14 members). Spectacular juggling and musical feats and at 3 pm, “Stam-Pede,” a percussive dance showcase with multiple companies. Living History: New-York Historical So- ciety, 170 Central Park West at 77th Street; (212) 873–3400; nyhistory.org; 11 am; Free with museum admission. Meet fascinating living historians and reen- Tea time with Teddy actors who bring the American Revolution to life inside the museum, presented in conjunc- Get your tea cups ready for the William’s toys and help Sarah with the tion with our groundbreaking exhibition, The Teddy Bear Tea at the Mount Vernon laundry. Afterwards, enjoy fruit tea and Battle of Brooklyn. Hotel Museum and Garden on Jan. 8. cookies. Reservations recommended. Macy’s Storytime: New-York Historical Banish post-holiday boredom with Teddy Bear Tea, Jan. 8 from 1 to 2:30 Society, 170 Central Park West at 77th Street; this special event for children ages 3 to pm. Tickets $10 and $5 for children (212) 873–3400; nyhistory.org; 11:30 am; 6. Bring your favorite teddy (or doll) to under 12. Free with museum admission. meet Mrs. Woodhull, the proprietor’s Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Gar- All ages are welcome to join this special wife, and role-play the daily activities den [421 E. 61st St. between First and York storytime. at the Mount Vernon Hotel in 1830. Avenues in Lenox Hill, (212) 838–6878; Teddy Bear Tea: Mount Vernon Hotel Mu- You’ll have an opportunity to try out www.mvhm.org]. seum and Garden, 421 E. 61st St. between First and York avenues; (212) 838–6878; www.mvhm.org; 1 pm to 2:30 pm; $10 ($5 7:30 pm. Joyce Theater. See Tuesday, Jan. 3. (646) 395–4325; 2 pm to 6 pm; $10 ($15 children under 12). adults; $45 family up to 5 members). Banish post-holiday boredom with a spe- A bounce house and rock wall will be set cial event for kids ages 3 to 6 and their fa- Thurs, Jan. 12 up all afternoon in the gym, plus PJ play!, vorite teddy (or doll) to role-play the daily In Manhattan activities at the Mount Vernon Hotel in 1830. family swim, klezmer music for kids, and a Cross-Stitch Circle: 3:30 pm. New-York Afterwards, enjoy fruit tea and cookies. Res- disco dance party will make this the grooviest Historical Society. See Thursday, Jan. 5. ervations recommended. place to burn those holiday calories! Heather Garden: Heather Garden – Fort “Argus”: David I Koch Theater, 20 Lincoln Tryon Park, Cabrini Boulevard and Fort Wash- Sat, Jan. 14 Center Plaza; (212)-875–5456; 11 am and 2 ington Avenue; (212) 795–1388; 1 pm to 2 In Manhattan pm; $25. pm; Free. Learn to box like Ali: New-York Historical Dead Puppet Society- Step into a whimsi- Start the New Year right by rediscovering Society, 170 Central Park West at 77th Street; cal wonderland where table tops grow grass the Heather Garden and the former Billings (212) 873–3400; nyhistory.org; 1 pm to 3 and water bottles become the depths of the Estate entrance area, and learn what plants pm; Free with museum admission. are prominent in winter. Find out what birds ocean. Using nothing but household ob- In honor of our special exhibition Mu- can be found in the park in the winter, and jects and the performers’ hands, Argus tells hammad Ali, LeRoy Neiman, and the Art of the plants that support them. Then, create the story of an endearing little creature try- Boxing, celebrity trainer and former profes- bird feeders for your home with artist Jenae ing to find a home in a world where he just sional boxer Ehinomen “Hollywood Hino” Schwartz to help our feathered friends during Ehikhamenor will join us in the museum to doesn’t fit in, brought to life with stunning the cold winter months. teach some of the moves that made Muham- creativity by one of Australia’s premier pup- “Snow White”: 2 pm. Galli Theater. See mad Ali “The Greatest of All Time.” pet companies. Sunday, Jan. 1. Pause and Play: 14th Street Y Preschool “Snow White”: 2 pm. Galli Theater. See American Dance Platform: 2 pm and (formerly known as Gani), 344 E. 14th Street Sunday, Jan. 1.
32 Manhattan Family • January 2017 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar
Sun, Jan. 15 In Manhattan Macy’s Storytime: 11:30 am. New-York Historical Society. See Sunday, Jan. 8. “Snow White”: 2 pm. Galli Theater. See Sunday, Jan. 1.
Mon, Jan. 16 In Manhattan Discovery walk – Balto’s winter won- derland: By the Gift Shop, Central Park, 65th St. Transverse; 11 am to noon; Free. What Central Park secrets are revealed in the winter? With the park’s most famous ca- nine resident leading the way, we’ll explore the wintery landscape to discover the an- swers! Bring your family for a guided walk and discover why Central Park is a sanctuary for plants, animals, and humans alike. Pre- registration required as space is limited. Ages 5 and up. Families only; maximum of three children per parent or guardian; no groups, please. Please arrive at walk location 15 min- utes before the start of the walk to allow time for check in. Terrain: Uneven, with hills, stairs, and wood-chipped trails; may not be suitable for strollers.
Thurs, Jan. 19 In Manhattan Blast off to outer space Cross-Stitch Circle: 3:30 pm. New-York Ground control is calling all space Ellen Van Dusen, and the Bridge Project Historical Society. See Thursday, Jan. 5. travelers to come and visit before the Crazy Space Odyssey, by Tom Burnett, mission takes off on Jan. 22 at the Chil- Edy Escamilla, and Yung Oh Le Page. Sat, Jan. 21 dren’s Museum of Art. The Bridge is full of sights, sounds, In Manhattan The exhibit Mission to Space covers and even a moving comet. As you the mysteries of outer space and how continue to the space station you will “Hansel & Gretel”: Galli Theater, 151 W. 26th Street, seventh floor; (212) 731–0668; it continues to challenge our imagina- board a spacecraft and blast off into www.gallitheaterny.com; 2 pm; $20 ($15 chil- tions. As life on Earth faces a volatile out space. dren; $35 combo). future, outer space emerges as a des- Mission to Space, daily until Jan. 22, Hansel and Gretel are brought into the tination of refuge, peace, and infinite from noon to 4 pm. Free with museum woods and cannot find their way back! A possibility. admission. witch lures them into her little house with all While there, come to the Pepperman Children’s Museum of the Arts [103 Char- kinds of tasty treats. Can clever Gretel trick Family Fine Arts Studio and enjoy two lton St. at Hudson Street in Hudson Square, the witch and get them safely back home? new interactive installations by designer (212) 274–0986; www.cmany.org]. For children 4 and up. Storytime: David I Koch Theater, 20 Lin- coln Center Plaza; (212)-875–5456; 11 am; “Otoyotoy”: Canegie Hall, Stern Audito- Thalia, 2537 Broadway at W. 94th Street; Free. rium, 881 Seventh Ave. at 56th Street; (212) (212) 316–4962; www.symphonyspace.org; Jean-Michael Basquiat and his unique, 247–7800; https://ticketofficeeventsales. 2 pm; $17 ($14 members). collage-style paintings rocketed to fame in com/Venues/Carnegie-Hall-Isaac-Stern-Audit Put on your smarty pants for this live, the 1980s as a cultural phenomenon unlike orium?gclid=CNqPnOnKitACFYcmhgodTt0Cs family-friendly multimedia quiz show spec- anything the art world had ever seen. But be- g; Noon and 2 pm; Free. tacular! The Big Quiz Thing brings a ridicu- fore that, he was a little boy who saw art ev- “Otoyotoy” is a piece of immersive music lous amount of fun to Symphony Space for erywhere: in poetry books and museums, in games and in the words that we speak, and theater for children under the age of 3 and an afternoon of fast and funny team trivia in the pulsing energy of New York City. their families that combines humor, storytell- with quizmaster extraordinaire EdP. Over the ing, and vocal improvisation. Conceived by course of six rounds, children and their par- Zoe Palmer and Thomas Cabaniss, with Sas- ents team up to show off their knowledge of Sun, Jan. 22 kia Lane. Performed by Moving Star Vocal topics ranging from history, sports, art, ani- In Manhattan Ensemble and Friends. Seats are a first-come, mals, geography, pop culture, and more. first-served basis. Macy’s Storytime: 11:30 am. New-York “Hansel & Gretel”: 2 pm. Galli Theater. Historical Society. See Sunday, Jan. 8. The Big Quiz Thing: Leonard Nimoy See Saturday, Jan. 21.
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 33 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar
Thurs, Jan. 26 In Manhattan Cross-Stitch Circle: 3:30 pm. New-York Historical Society. See Thursday, Jan. 5.
Sat, Jan. 28 In Manhattan “Hansel & Gretel”: 2 pm. Galli Theater. See Saturday, Jan. 21. Open studios: Whitney Museum of Ameri- can Art, 99 Ganesvoort St.; (212) 570–3600; whitney.org/Education/Families; 10:30 am to 3 pm; Free with museum admission. Every month the Whitney Museum of American Art offers opportunities for chil- dren of all ages to engage with our current exhibitions and create their own artwork in the Whitney’s Hearst Artspace during Open Studios. Open Studio with artist Jenny Per- lin. Jenny Perlin’s films incorporate innovative techniques to investigate history as it relates to the present. Her work combines live-ac- Skate in the heart of NYC tion, staged, and documentary images with hand-drawn animation. Lace up your skates and visit the Village at Bryant Park, now through Bank of America Winter Village at Bry- March 5 from 8 am to 10 pm, Monday Sun, Jan. 29 ant Park, there now until March 5. through Thursday and Sunday; 8 am to The rink is the centerpiece of the midnight Friday and Saturday. Admis- In Manhattan village and features free-admission sion is free; skate rentals are $20. Shadow Play: David I Koch Theater, 20 ice skating in addition to high-quality Bank of America Winter Village at Bry- Lincoln Center Plaza; (212)-875–5456; 11 am rental skates, skating shows, special ant Park [42nd Street and Avenue of the and 2 pm; $25. events, and activities. Americas in Midtown, (212) 768–4242; Trusty Sidekick Theater Company Have Skating at Bank of America Winter www.bryantpark.org]. you ever wondered what happens to your shadow while you sleep? Well, it turns out that some shadows are more mischievous than others. Soon after moving to his new Long-running Train show at Grand Central: Grand home, Flash discovers that his shadow has Central Station, 42nd Street and Park Av- moving plans of its own! Shadow Play is an In Manhattan enue; www.nytransitmuseum.org/exhibits; Weekdays, 8 am to 8 pm, Saturdays and Sun- early-years, multimedia performance that en- Winter Village: Bryant Park, 42nd Street days, 10 am to 6 pm, Now – Sun, Feb. 26, chants and engages. and Avenue of the Americas; (212) 768–4242; 2017; Free with museum admission. Macy’s Storytime: 11:30 am. New-York His- www.bryantpark.org; Daily, 8 am to 10 pm; The Fifth Annual Holiday Train Show is an torical Society. See Sunday, Jan. 8. Now – Sun, March 5; Free, fee for skate rentals. iconic holiday image of a model train, whir- “Hansel & Gretel”: 2 pm. Galli Theater. The rink is open for ice skating. Lace up ring by as it circles the base of a brightly-lit See Saturday, Jan. 21. those skates and get gliding around. tree, evoking feelings of warmth and wonder Spotlight on American dance The American Dance Platform is star- Davalois Fearon Dance on Jan. 5 and 7; as ring at the Joyce Theater from Jan. 3 well as Lucky Plush Productions and Dal- through Jan. 8. las Black Dance Theatre on Jan. 6 and 7. Now in its second year, the Ameri- American Dance Platform, Jan. 3 at can Dance Platform festival continues to 7:30 pm; Jan. 4 at 7:30 pm; Jan. 5 at 8 pm. showcase some of the most captivating Jan. 6 at 8 pm; Jan. 7 at 2 pm and 8 pm; American companies performing today. Jan. 8 at 2 pm and 7:30 pm. Tickets start This year features an eclectic roster at $10. of artists, including Dušan Týnek Dance Joyce Theater [175 Eighth Ave. between Theatre and Company E on Jan. 3 and 8; W. 18th and W. 19th in Chelsea, (212) 242– RawDance and Contra-tiempo on Jan. 4 0800; www.joyce.org/performances/americ and 8; Ragamala Dance Company and an-dance-platform].
34 Manhattan Family • January 2017 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar
in children and adults alike. Mission to Space: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St. at Hudson Street; (212) 274–0986; www.cmany.org; Daily, The circus Noon to 4 pm; Now – Sun, Jan. 22; Free with museum admission. Explore the mysteries of outer space and is in town how it continues to challenge our imagina- Be amazed at the wacky talents of tions. Also enjoy the new installation by Ellen Van Dusen, where you will be able to interact the members of “Les Parfaits Incon- by moving the magnetic pieces to crate your nus” on Jan. 7, at the Peter Jay Sharp own patterns in space, and the Crazy Space Theatre. Odyssey, where you board a spacecraft and The New York premiere offers the- blast off into outer space. ater-goers a crazy adventure through Jazz for Kids: Jazz Standard, 116 E. 27th the world of the circus, where com- St. between Park and Lexington avenues; edy, acrobatics, balancing, and jug- (212) 576- 2232; www.jazzstandard.com; gling mingle with the festive rhythms Sundays, 1 to 3 pm; Free ($5 donation of live music. The scene is an aban- requested). doned lot on the outskirts of town, Come and listen to jazz concert and help where a family of traveling circus benefit the Jazz Standard Discovery Program. Jazz Standard donates $1 from each kid’s performers stop and set up camp the menu sold to Spoons Across America, a non- way they always do, as part of their profit organization dedicated to educating life on the road. One idle day, as the children, teachers, and families about healthy young bohemians are quietly keep- eating habits. Table reservations requested. ing busy with small daily chores, they “iLuminate”: New World Stages – Stage 1, suddenly notice the unexpected pres- 340 W. 50th St. between Eighth and Ninth av- ence of an audience fully determined enues; (212) 239–6200; www.iluminate.com; to be entertained. With their instincts Mondays, 7 pm, Wednesdays – Fridays, 8 pm, suddenly reawakened by this surpris- Saturdays, 2 pm and 8 pm, Sundays, 3 pm and ing visit, the travelling acrobats step 7:30 pm, Now – Sun, Jan. 8, 2017; $77- $99. up to the plate and showcase their Music, art, and the technological magic of multiple talents to the delight and “iLuminate” bring you a story of adventure and romance told through dance styles rang- awe of the audience. ing from contemporary, hip-hop, latin, and “Les Parfaits Inconnus,” Jan. 7 at 11 breaking, all using the power of light. Suit- am and 2 pm. Tickets are $17 and $14 able for tweens and young adults. for members. Wreath interpretations: Arsenal in Peter Jay Sharp Theatre [155 W. 65th Central Park, 830 Fifth Ave.; (212) 360–8114; St. at West End Avenue on the Upper Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, Now – Thurs, Jan. East Side, (212) 864–5400; www.sym- 5; Free, fee for skate rentals. phonyspace.org]. Come to the 34th exhibit and view uncon- ventional and inventive wreaths. Little New-Yorkers: New-York Historical Sat, March 4; Free. York Botanical Garden. Help Thomas find Society, 170 Central Park West at 77th Street; Sing, dance, and celebrate the joys of his way from Knapford Station to Brendam (212) 873–3400; nyhistory.org; Tuesdays and Shabbat with this intergenerational family Docks using teamwork, friendship, and dis- Fridays, 3:30 pm, Tues, Jan. 3 – Tues, Jan. 31; experience! covery in this fun-filled sing-along, mini-per- Free with museum admission. formance adventure. Bring your camera to Showtime Saturdays: Sugar Hill Chil- Held in the cozy Barbara K. Lipman Chil- have your photo taken with Thomas after the dren’s Museum of Art, 898 St. Nicholas Ave.; dren’s History Library, this program intro- performance. duces New York and American history to the (212) 335–0004; www.sugarhillmuseum.org; New York Botani- littlest New Yorkers with age-appropriate Saturdays, Noon to 5 pm, Now – Sat, Jan. 14, Holiday Train Show: readings and engaging hands-on activities. 2017; Free. cal Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. at Fordham Ages 3 to 5 years old. Move your body, make music, and be a Road, The Bronx; (718) 817–8700; www. part of the story every Saturday with dancer, nybg.org; Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am to 5:30 Story Hour: Sugar Hill Children’s Museum actor, and in-house talent Alexander Elisa. pm, Now – Mon, Jan. 16, 2017; $20 ($10 chil- of Art, 898 St. Nicholas Ave.; (212) 335– dren). Weekends $30 ($18 children). 0004; www.sugarhillmuseum.org; Fridays, Further Afield More than 150 New York City landmarks Noon to 5 pm, Now – Fri, Jan. 13; Free. “All Aboard with Thomas and are recreated in miniature out of bark, nuts, A fun-filled family day will include art-mak- Friends”: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 leaves and other plant parts. Large scale ing and face painting; storytelling through Southern Blvd. at Fordham Road, The Bronx; model trains zip around such familiar sites dance, music, theater and the oral tradition; (718) 817–8700; www.nybg.org; Daily, various as the Statue of Liberty and Rockefeller Cen- food trucks, and more. times, Now – Fri, Jan. 20, 2017; $30 ($28 se- ter. A recent addition of 3,000-square-feet Shababa Saturdays: 92Y, 1395 Lexing- niors & students; $18 children under 12. of exhibition has made room for new trains, ton Ave. at E. 91st Street; (212) 415–5500; Join Thomas and Driver Sam for All bridges and tracks. See website for extended www.92y.org; Saturdays, 10:30 am, Now – “Aboard with Thomas & Friends” at the New hour. Reservations strongly recommended.
January 2017 • Manhattan Family 35 ADVICE Mediation tackles income, expenses
ill and Angela, who we have been new things, because of how much she had following, are set to begin their grown over the summer. B second mediation session. They at- Angela says that she will look at her tended a consultation in November. In their statements for the past year and take the first mediation session in December, they average of that 12-month period. Bill agrees DIVORCE & addressed parenting issues. Now, they will to her suggestion. The mediator makes a begin to discuss financial matters. note to come back to this question. SEPARATION Angela asks if — since money will be LEE CHABIN, ESQ. Jan. 19 — Session 2 tight — Bill can cut down on his recre- The mediator asks Angela and Bill how ational spending. Bill bristles at first; but they and the children are, and whether looking at where his money goes, decides anything of note has happened since the this is reasonable. Bill says he can spend last session. a lot less on sporting events. He does a Can we do that?” The mediator gives the spouses a brief quick calculation, agreeing to reduce rec- Bill is still annoyed, but he also feels overview of Marital and Separate Property reational spending by 10 percent, starting that he is being heard by his wife. He (and Debts). this month. He believes that he can bring it agrees. They discuss what to do with the He then begins setting out Bill’s and down further, but feels comfortable start- money that will be saved. Bill wants to use Angela’s respective income and expenses. ing at 10 percent. it to pay down a credit card. Angela agrees [The mediator had e-mailed each of them The mediator, noticing Angela’s facial to this. a blank form asking for this information expression, asks if she wants to say some- Regarding the expense and income fig- after the first session, and both spouses thing. ures now displayed on the flipchart, the have filled it out.] This is done using a flip- She answers, “Well, I think Bill could spouses agree that the numbers are pretty chart, so that all three of them can see the do more here.” (Bill immediately becomes accurate. figures that the spouses supply. upset.) Bill raises a concern he has about the Bill questions why Angela is paying “But,” she adds, “Bill is willing to com- parenting agreement. He says that he has $400 a month for clothes for herself and mit to this, and says he’ll do more; I believe what is a minor change in mind that would the children. Bill isn’t angry, but thinks the that.” Turning to Bill, she says, “Maybe it’s allow him to spend more time with the chil- number is high. In discussing the matter, a good idea that you start with 10 percent; dren during the summer, if Angela would it turns out that Angela based her calcula- that way, you won’t feel deprived. If you be ok with it. Bill shares his thought. tion on her September credit card state- spent less now, you might hate it, and be Angela says that the change would be ment, which showed higher costs than angry with me, and we’d be worse off. So, alright with her, if another small change average due to purchasing back-to-school good. Do the 10 percent for now. Then, we can be made when it comes to the Thanks- clothing. Their daughter needed a lot of can talk about it again in a month or two. giving holiday break, starting the following year. Bill tells Angela that he is willing; while he likes the Thanksgiving break and doesn’t really want to change the schedule they had agreed to, the change over the summer is a much bigger deal to him. The session ends, with the spouses agreeing to complete the Asset/Debt forms for the next session. Next time: Assets (especially the house) and debts. New York City and Long Island-based di- vorce mediator and collaborative divorce law- yer Lee Chabin helps clients end their relation- ships respectfully and without going to court. Contact him at [email protected], (718) 229–6149, or go to http://lc-mediate. com /. Follow him on Facebook at www.face- book.com/lchabin .
Disclaimer: All material in this column is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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January 2017 • Manhattan Family 37 New & Noteworthy By Lisa J. Curtis Give boring Hot gift idea
The Misty Copeland shoes the boot Barbie is not your child’s What’s more fun than a pair of rainboots typical fashion doll. for splashing in slushy puddles? How about This one is sculpted transparent wellies that your little girl can in the likeness of real-life transform as easily as changing her socks? American Ballet Theatre She can wear her American Girl plastic star Misty Copeland. Peek-A-Boo Wellies with their set of five The doll is dressed pairs of WellieWishers socks for instantly in Copeland’s adorable footwear transformations. thrilling red The polyester-cotton sock set includes costume a pink ballet slipper inspired pair, another from Igor pink pair with a gold Mary Jane shoe de- Stravinsky’s sign, a red polka dot pair with ladybug ballet “The faces on the toes, a multicolored floral Firebird,” pair, and a blue-and-green fish pair. Peek-A-Boo Wellies rainboots, $26, and she The rain boots are available in sizes WellieWishers set of five socks, $20, Ameri- stands tall 8/9, 10/11, 12/13, and 1/2. canGirl.com. en pointe. Sales of this toy — through the Metropolitan Junie B. Jones sings! Opera’s website — support the ABT’s Man- For all of those little musical theater journal, “Top hattan home. The Misty buffs, a Junie B. Jones The Musical cast Secret Personal Copeland Barbie is cer- album dropping on Jan. 13 is a treat for B e e s w a x . ” tain to delight aspiring the ears — and heart. More high- ballerinas and balleto- New York City songwriting team Zina lights include manes ages 6 and older. Goldrich and Marcy Heisler deserve to the comically This fiery dancing doll go the front of the lunch line for having ominous “You will ignite the imaginations successfully set the adventures of this Need Glasses” and the gleeful, exuberant and career aspirations of little girls ev- first-grade heroine to music for the off- perk of donning her purple specs, “Now I erywhere — especially when paired with Broadway show originally produced by See.” It’s a great listen for the whole family, Copeland’s picture book, “Firebird,” illus- Theatreworks USA. especially those between 3 and 9. trated by Christopher Myers. The CD opens with a rousing tune sung “Junie B. Jones The Musical” Album, Misty Copeland Barbie, $35.96, MetOpera. by Junie B. (Lori Casteel) about her new $9.99, iTunes.com. org. Dropping science from the ‘Blue’ Kids can discover scientific concepts the galaxy from the evil King Dullard. Like while on an out-of-this-world adventure in a choose-your-own-adventure-style book, Galxyz’s new app “Blue Apprentice.” players move at their own pace and select Galxyz founder Osman Rashid’s digital their next actions with text prompts — that game for students ages 6-12 is rich in sci- can be played aloud for emerging readers ence content — and surprisingly, has many — all the while revealing real information, moments of laugh-out-loud dialogue. While like the elements in the periodic table, or it is entertaining, Blue Apprentice takes its the definition of matter, and much more. educational component seriously. Created in The Blue Apprentice app can be played partnership with the New York Academy of on iPads (which we preferred) or online Sciences to follow Next Generation Science at blueapprentice.com via a monthly sub- Standards, it covers more than 45 topics. scription; the first seven days are free, so Players customize their avatar, Thalo, they can try it, before you buy it. and — along with their flying friend Grit, a Blue Apprentice app, $10.99 per month or wisecracking Chipku — they’re off to save $74.00 per year, blueapprentice.com.
38 Manhattan Family • January 2017 Success starts with igniting imaginations.
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