Fall Fun! Creative Ideas for Autumn Parties

High School October 2017 Manhattan FREE Family Choices www.NYParenting.com Fall fun! Creative ideas for autumn parties

Local teens are young innovators

Fighting the bully problem

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Features 6 Scaring up fun Creative ideas to make your autumn party a hit By Denise Yearian 12 Next generation Local teens garner awards as STEM Innovators By Tammy Scileppi 18 A parent-child role reversal As parents grow infirm, their children must take on the role of caretakers By Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman 22 Ten tips for choosing a tutor for your child 22 By Denise Yearian 24 The book club columns Winners of the 2017 Ezra Jack Keats Bookmaking Competition 8 Ask an Attorney By Margot Abel By Alison Arden Besunder, Esq. 30 A kinder world 10 FabuLYSS Finds When and why bullies rule, and how by Lyss Stern to encourage empathy By Myrna Beth Haskell 20 Healthy Living by Danielle Sullivan 32 The right way to clean How instilling a tidying habit now 26 Just Write Mom will pay a lifetime of dividends by Danielle Sullivan By Allison Plitt 28 Good Sense Eating 34 Mighty Penn by Christine M. Palumbo, RD 38 Fun, food, and history in 46 New & Noteworthy Philadelphia and Gettysburg By Lisa J. Curtis By Jim Graves calendar 38 October Events

special sections 14 High Schools Directory 45 The Marketplace

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 3 letter from the PublIsher

New routines and fall beginning

y now the new sched- she has shared with us a com- mind that your toddlers of today will be ules have been put in pelling article about bullying teens before you know it. It’s absolutely B motion and the after that I urge every parent/care- amazing how quickly it all whizzes by and school arrangements and giver to read. Please make how responsibilities and disciplines you programs have either been sure to pass it on. Issues such thought were years away suddenly find working out or are still being as bullying are of the utmost themselves manifest in your family’s life. finalized. New schools, grades importance, and as parents, It’s important to keep your options open and teachers have become we need to be as informed as for future school choices and it’s never more familiar in the weeks we can be. too early to begin discovering what would since school began and our Every October we highlight work best for your family. kids are adjusting to the new routines. articles about teens and present a special Enjoy the mostly gorgeous month of In this issue Denise Yearian has shared advertising section to draw attention to October and have a safe and Happy Hal- some ideas about how to look for a tutor. the High School Open Houses going on loween. I know in my family there were subjects around New York. This year is no excep- Thanks for reading. that warranted extra study and one-on- tion, and in fact, we are pleased to high- one strategies, and we were all glad we light two stories about teens excelling in found good part time tutors to make the our area. The prestigious Brooklyn Tech classroom experience more successful. Be has taken honors for its student govern- sure to check out her 10 tips in choosing ment and a group of teens from around the the right tutor. city has garnered awards as STEM innova- Susan Weiss-Voskidis, Myrna Beth Haskell is always a welcome tors. Exciting stuff! Publisher/Excutive Editor contributor to our editorial and this month It’s important as parents to keep in [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: Erin Brof, Mary Cassidy, Parenting Shelli Goldberg-Peck, Jay Pelc 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 Gardy Charles, Earl Ferrer, John Napoli, fraudu lent or misleading in nature. New York Parenting Media/CNG. Subscrip- tion rate is $35 annually. Reproduction of 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 • October 2017 We Are Pleased To Announce the Opening of our New Child Care Center Where Children Actively Explore, Discover, and Learn We are a new Manhattan day care center for children ages 3 months to 5 years. We are oﬀ ering enhanced academic programs, music, dance, movement, languages, sports, and art classes.

We believe a child’s earliest years should be a time ﬁ lled with new stimuli and novel experiences that drive their cognitive, social, and physical growth and development.

More than a Day Care...

LAC Early Childhood Center at the Village Learn more at lacearlychildhood.org 2 Fifth Avenue (Corner of 8th Street and Fifth Avenue), New York, NY 10011 212-828-3975 • 212-828-3974 • fax: 212-828-3976 October 2017 • Manhattan Family 5 Scaring up fun Creative ideas to make your autumn party a hit

By Denise yearian paintbrush and white paint to draw a craft foam, then cut a small slit in the mouth, nose, and whiskers. Draw and cut center of each leaf. Draw a face onto the hether you’re planning a boun- out a black tail shape and two triangular- bottom side of an orange paper plate tiful harvest celebration or a shaped ears. Cut two smaller triangles with a black permanent marker. Line W creepy crawly Halloween party, from pink paper for the insides of the up the face plate with a second orange you may want to consider these craft, ears; glue to black triangles. Glue ears plate, rims together, and bottoms facing game, and food suggestions. to the top inside edge of the can and the out. Use a hole punch to create holes one tail to the back side of the can. Fill with inch apart around the perimeter of both Crop of crafts treats. plates. Place dried beans and small jingle When doing crafts with kids in a group Jack-o-lantern pots. Buy various- bells between the two plates. Also put setting, plan a main craft with a short, sized terra cotta pots and turn them up- the dowel between the plates, moving second activity — coloring pages or side down so the drainage hole is facing a short end of the stick above the facial stringing popcorn — for early finishers. up. On yellow construction paper, draw features to represent the pumpkin stem Whatever crafts you choose, pick ones and cut out two eyes, a nose and a toothy and a long end below for the handle. Sew that are easy to clean up, so you can grin — the wackier the better. Apply Mod plates together by lacing yarn through move on to the next activity. Podge with a paintbrush under and over the holes. Push leaf slits through the Here are a few ideas: the facial features then attach them to short end of the dowel rods and secure Black cat candy jar. Place black elec- the pot. Place a short, wide stick out of with a glue gun. trical tape over the sharp edges of a tin the hole to resemble a pumpkin stem. can. Cover the can with black construc- Pumpkin noisemakers. Paint a 12- by Autumn activities tion paper and glue in place. Glue two half-inch dowel rod black, and let it dry. Games are a staple at kids’ gatherings. wiggly eyes to the can, then use a thin Trace and cut out two leaves from green Choose ones every child can participate

6 Manhattan Family • October 2017 in, where no one is eliminated. With a lit- each child a floating face. tle forethought and creativity, any game Food is more fun when Itsy-bitsy caramel apples. Cut lolli- can be adapted to fit the fall theme: pop sticks in half. Use a melon baller to Broom ball. Purchase half-sized kids are involved in the scoop little balls out of medium-sized brooms for each party guest and two dif- apples, making sure each ball has a sec- ferent colors of seasonal garland. Deco- preparation process. Stick tion of the apple peel. Push a lollipop rate half of the brooms with one color of stick into the peel of each apple ball. Blot garland and the remaining half with the with things children like apples dry with a paper towel. Melt a 14- other garland to specify teams. Establish to eat, and then add a ounce package of caramel candies with goals at opposite ends of the yard, and 2 tablespoons of water. Have children divide the children into teams. Place a seasonal twist to it. dip and swirl their apple balls in caramel kickball in the center of the yard then then roll in crushed Oreo cookies, nuts, give each child a broom to sweep the ball sprinkles, nonpareils, or mini-chocolate to his team’s goal. The first team to score item then tag the next player who does chips. Place on waxed paper to cool for five goals wins. the same. When the scarecrow is com- 15 minutes. Ring around the pumpkin. Place pletely dressed, each teammate returns Pumpkin pancakes. Mix dry ingredi- three large pumpkins with stems in a a second time to stuff straw in his cloth- ents: 1 cup flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 line several feet apart. Gather four hula ing. The first team to finish making their teaspoons baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt, hoops. To play, children should take scarecrow wins. and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside. turns standing behind the designated Separate two eggs. Mix yolks with ½ tossing line and try to ring the pumpkins Seasonal snacks cup of plain pumpkin puree, 1 cup milk, with the hula hoop. The child with the Food is more fun when kids are in- and 2 tablespoons canola oil. Add dry most rings wins. volved in the preparation process. Stick ingredients. Beat egg whites until fluffy, Scarecrow relay. Separate children with things children like to eat and add a then fold into the batter. Pour ¼ cup of into two teams. Choose one child from seasonal twist to it: batter onto a greased griddle; flip when each team to be the scarecrow. Place Floating faces. Core and peel an bubbles form on top. Kids can make scarecrows at one end of the room, along apple, then cut it in half. Lay one half on jack-o-lantern faces using raisins, dried with hay and oversized scarecrow-type the table and use a paring knife to create fruit, nuts, chocolate chips, and whipped clothing items. Teammates line up at the facial features. Repeat these steps until cream. other end of the room. To play, team- you have enough apple halves for each Denise Morrison Yearian is the former edi- mates take turns running to the scare- party guest. Place apples in cider punch tor of two parenting magazines and the mother crow and dressing him with one clothing bowl. When the cider is labeled, give of three children and four grandchildren. Scaring up fun Creative ideas to make your autumn party a hit

By Denise yearian paintbrush and white paint to draw a craft foam, then cut a small slit in the mouth, nose, and whiskers. Draw and cut center of each leaf. Draw a face onto the hether you’re planning a boun- out a black tail shape and two triangular- bottom side of an orange paper plate Got a daredevil? tiful harvest celebration or a shaped ears. Cut two smaller triangles with a black permanent marker. Line W creepy crawly Halloween party, from pink paper for the insides of the up the face plate with a second orange Better have a good pediatrician. you may want to consider these craft, ears; glue to black triangles. Glue ears plate, rims together, and bottoms facing game, and food suggestions. to the top inside edge of the can and the out. Use a hole punch to create holes one tail to the back side of the can. Fill with inch apart around the perimeter of both Crop of crafts treats. plates. Place dried beans and small jingle When doing crafts with kids in a group Jack-o-lantern pots. Buy various- bells between the two plates. Also put setting, plan a main craft with a short, sized terra cotta pots and turn them up- the dowel between the plates, moving second activity — coloring pages or side down so the drainage hole is facing a short end of the stick above the facial Call 866.247.5678 (TTY 711) stringing popcorn — for early finishers. up. On yellow construction paper, draw features to represent the pumpkin stem Whatever crafts you choose, pick ones and cut out two eyes, a nose and a toothy and a long end below for the handle. Sew that are easy to clean up, so you can grin — the wackier the better. Apply Mod plates together by lacing yarn through AffinityPlan.org/CHP move on to the next activity. Podge with a paintbrush under and over the holes. Push leaf slits through the Here are a few ideas: the facial features then attach them to short end of the dowel rods and secure Black cat candy jar. Place black elec- the pot. Place a short, wide stick out of with a glue gun. To learn more about applying for health insurance, trical tape over the sharp edges of a tin the hole to resemble a pumpkin stem. including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY can. Cover the can with black construc- Pumpkin noisemakers. Paint a 12- by Autumn activities State of Health, The Official Health Plan Marketplace, visit tion paper and glue in place. Glue two half-inch dowel rod black, and let it dry. Games are a staple at kids’ gatherings. nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 855.355.5777. wiggly eyes to the can, then use a thin Trace and cut out two leaves from green Choose ones every child can participate

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 7 Advice

Ask An Attorney Alison Arden Besunder, esq.

ner the custodial property to the minor,” which provides some options for steps you may take if you are concerned about turning over a large account to your child.

Use the funds for the minor’s benefit: Until the minor is 18, you can use the funds for the minor’s benefit. If you are also the parent of the minor, you may not Financial windfall use funds for items that are your support obligations to your child (such as food, clothing and shelter), but you may use the account to pay for “luxuries” such as for my teenager private school, extracurricular activities, camp, or a new computer.

Uniform Transfer to Minors Act lets Transfer the assets to the minor: parents save for education and more When the minor is 18, you can retitle the Uniform Transfer to Minors Act ac- I opened a Uniform Transfer to Minors Act some cases the account does not turn over count into an account in the minor’s account for my child with the bank when she to the child until the child is 21 years old. name. You can, with the minor’s permis- was young and now she is about to turn 18 The title of the account should indicate sion, be named a co-signer or receive du- years old, and I am concerned about turning whether it is to be held until age 18 or 21. plicate statements to see how the minor over the account to her, which now has more New York law provides that a transfer spends the money. You may incentivize than $50,000. made pursuant to the act is irrevocable your child to use the funds responsibly and the custodial property is vested in the by stating that you will pay for college any parents opened accounts minor at the time of transfer, and cannot be with other funds if she keeps the funds pursuant to the Uniform Trans- annulled. The minor therefore has a legal for graduate school (as one example) or M fer to Minors Act when their chil- right to the assets in the account upon the you may even use “strong-arm” tactics to dren were young with the intent to save minor’s 18th birthday. As custodian of the state that you will reduce her inheritance money for their children’s future college account, you are obligated to inform the if she uses the funds irresponsibly. expenses, but the law does not require the minor of those assets at the time the ac- child to use that money for college, and count completely vests in the minor. The Purchase an income- it must be turned over to the child when statute does, however, state that the custo- producing asset: that child turns 18 years old. Note that in dian “shall transfer in an appropriate man- You can use your discretion under “ap-

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.

8 Manhattan Family • October 2017 propriate manner” to use the account funds do so. If she does not exercise her with- to purchase an asset that the minor would If instead of setting up a drawal right, the funds stay in trust pursu- not be able to easily liquidate once she re- ant to the trust agreement. ceives it at age 18, such as income-produc- new trust you keep the If your child does not exercise her right ing real property or an annuity. This is not of withdrawal, the trust would then be recommended, because it could be later funds in the account after considered a “self-settled” trust and any reviewed as a breach of fiduciary duty. Fi- creditor of your child could potentially duciary obligations include that a fiduciary your child becomes 18 years reach the funds to satisfy a judgment. If must transfer assets to a beneficiary upon old, she could demand instead of setting up a new trust you keep the termination of a fiduciary duty in a the funds in the account after your child manner that is easily converted to cash. If, the funds at any time. becomes 18 years old, she could demand however, the minor consents in writing, this the funds at any time. As discussed above, may help protect against a later claim. you can try to incentivize your child to not you used those assets to fund the 529 Plan. exercise her right of withdrawal in your 529 Plan: discussions with her. You may transfer the account proceeds 2503(c) Trust: These suggestions are all options you into a newly created 529 Plan for the mi- If you want to continue to hold the may have; however, each situation is dif- nor’s benefit. This will require liquidating funds, you could create a living trust for ferent and fact specific. If you have an any stocks or securities in the account be- the minor’s benefit under Internal Revenue Uniform Transfer to Minors Act account cause a 529 Plan can only be funded with Code § 2503(c). The terms of the trust can and are concerned about turning over the cash. This may trigger capital gains taxes be drafted to allow you, as trustee, to make account to your child when she turns 18 if the assets have increased in value signifi- discretionary distributions and forced dis- or 21, you should speak to an attorney to cantly. However, transferring the funds to tributions at set ages, so the funds stay discuss your options and which option is a 529 Plan will allow you to continue to be under your control until you believe your best for your situation. the custodian of the funds until the funds child is able to handle the account on her Alison Arden Besunder is the founding at- are completely withdrawn, thereby allow- own. In order to deter future claims of torney of the law firm of Arden Besunder P.C., ing you to withhold it to pay for college. breach of fiduciary duty, the trust should where she assists new and not-so-new parents However, if your child requests the funds allow the minor a one-time withdrawal with their estate-planning needs. Her firm as- at any time for any purpose you will need right, where she is afforded the opportu- sists clients in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, to release the funds or she may petition the nity to withdraw the funds up to the full Nassau, and Suffolk Counties. You can find Ali- court to receive the funds pursuant to your amount when she turns 18 years old. Your son Besunder on Twitter @estatetrustplan and obligation as fiduciary of the account since child will have a 30- or 60-day window to on her website at www.besunderlaw.com.

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OctoberMonth 2017 2017• Ma •n XXXXXhattan Family Family 27 9 Parents October’s finds ow that the kids have gone back to school, N that means that we have lots of new, FabULyss- finds just for the moms — including products to make your skin glow, beautiful jewelry, and help to get your teens ready for the college applica- Fabulyss Finds tion process. Lyss stern • • • After the summer, I am always looking to make my skin glow again. My face is filled with lots of extra sun and pig- mentation after spending time outdoors. Beaute Oblige clinic ning the exciting independent school opened on Madison Avenue (yes, that includes kindergarten) and and became the secret of chic college application processes. I want to New Yorkers, fashion editors, introduce you to the FabULyss Chief Ex- designers, and celebrities. Cli- ecutive Officer Danielle Fazio and Patty ents have included “Modern Ziplow, of Preminente College Counseling Family” actress Sofia Vergara, LLC. Preminente’s 20 years of experience “Real Housewife of New York” as a leader in the industry and in-depth LuAnn de Lesseps, and many admissions knowledge helps each family fashion designers, stylists, and navigate the subtleties and complexities influencers. Aesthetician Ca- of the K–12 school and college admissions mille Obadia says, “[My] sk- processes. Members of the consulting incare line battles pollution, team include former top New York Metro increases oxygenation, and aurora lopez Mejia creates wearable reminders and sculp- area independent school, college, and maintains good quality colla- tures that are meant to document one’s personal history graduate school admissions officers and gen, to keep skin healthy and and journey and one day be passed on and shared with admissions directors, Ivy League gradu- fight the anti-aging process.” loved ones as modern-day heirlooms. ates, published authors, former Division Beaute Oblige (635 Madison I and professional athletes, recruiters, Ave., www.camilleobadia.com). • • • and noted artists. The Preminente team • • • Who doesn’t love beautiful jewels? Au- works with students at top boarding, pri- Back-to-school season is all about edu- rora Lopez Mejia creates wearable remind- vate, and public schools throughout the cating, and DermalYouth, a new skincare ers and sculptures that are meant to docu- United States, Europe, South America, line developed just for kids, wants to ment one’s personal history and journey. Central America, and Asia. teach children the importance of taking All pieces are to be one day passed on and To learn more, visit www.preminentecolleg- care of their skin while they’re young. shared with loved ones as modern-day ecounseling.com. The company has developed a revolu- heirlooms. Her craftsmanship and devout • • • tionary children’s skincare system with respect of ancient civilizations have led New York City mom Amanda Sanders, the world’s first Day and Night Children’s her to create unique talismans that em- an image consultant, launched a men’s Daily Skincare Kit. Formulated for chil- brace the power and etymology of words. pocket square company: Well Suited dren ages 6 months to 18 years, the kit is Always in collaboration with her patrons, NYC. As a stylist, she discovered a need dermatologist and pediatrician approved these commissioned, one-of-a-kind pieces and a demand for a pocket square that and is backed by The Skin Cancer Founda- are created to inspire one’s personal em- was easy for a man to use. These are pre- tion. Packed with nutritional benefits that powerment and transcendence. folded and fused together, as opposed to provide protection from the sun, hydrate, I personally love her one-of-a-kind rings the traditional pocket square that most and rejuvenate the skin, DermalYouth’s that you can have engraved with your chil- men don’t know how to fold — which kit delivers around-the-clock protection dren’s names and life beads. You can have ends up bulky in their suit pockets. Diva- in the morning and rejuvenation in the your favorite inspirations and words hand- Dads will look FabULyss sporting these evening. It extends children’s youthful crafted onto each piece, and as your family pocket squares for work and for dress- appearance while protecting them from grows, your life beads can grow. ing up. the heightened and preventable threat of Available at www.auroralopezmejia.com. Visit www.wellsuitednyc.com. skin cancers. • • • Lyss Stern is the founder of DivaLysscious Available at www.dermalyouth.com. Here’s some help for parents begin- Moms (www.divamoms.com).

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October 2017 • Manhattan Family 11 Next generation Local teens garner awards as STEM Innovators

By Tammy Scileppi the state of charge of lithium-ion poly- “We think it’s important mer batteries. In English, this means trio of talented tech entrepre- that I am applying an algorithm that is neurs received some much de- to recognize STEM and typically used for other applications A served attention at the third an- (such as GPS positioning) to calculate nual New York City “Young Innovators to high-tech initiatives at battery percentage in small robots,” he Watch” awards. explained. “My method allows robots, In July, the winners exhibited their a young age, because if among other battery-powered devices, amazing projects at a special presenta- these students get some to be safer and more efficient, while also tion of prizes in Manhattan. maximizing battery usage to squeeze These students, under the age of 20, reinforcement, they’re out the last bits of power when it’s are actively shaping the future by com- needed most.” bining imagination with technology. more likely to continue.” It’s a new way to help more accurately “They have been busy working on measure battery life — an industry-wide visionary projects that rise to the chal- problem that he may solve one day. lenge [of] resolv[ing] existing societal is- standing projects. sues, such as water quality, food waste, Future plans and physical injuries sustained by the vi- Michael Klamkin, 16 “I plan to go to a university and become sually impaired,” said Robin Raskin, the Winner for his Dual Extended Kalman an electrical engineer. However, I under- program’s creator. “Being recognized at Filtering algorithm, Michael Klamkin stand that life may lead me on a different an industry technology showcase is re- lives in Staten Island with his parents, path, so I am keeping my options open. ally empowering for these winners.” both Russian immigrants. “Our family is I have recently begun considering going Projects are ranked on their creativ- a blend of traditional Russian culture– into the financial sector doing quantitative ity, user design, use of science, technol- values and modern American culture,” analysis,” he said. ogy, engineering, arts, and math — also he said. “I wouldn’t change it for the known as STEAM; scalability; and civic- world!” Hobbies mindedness. In his spare time, the clever teen has “I enjoy building, designing, and oper- Winning projects include an algo- been designing and prototyping a small ating multicopters (drones); and making rithm that accurately measures lithium- satellite called the MTS-1, as well as small electronics projects.” ion battery percentages and a smart- studying and writing, so he can get into phone device that records customizable a challenging university and continue ex- Sharon Lin, 18 studio-quality sound. ploring his passion for engineering. Winner for her White Water app, Sha- “We started the Young Innovators four ron Lin attended Stuyvesant High School years ago, with the mission of rewarding your recent win and is now a freshman at the Massachu- students with entrepreneurial and inno- “The event was amazing! I had put so setts Institute of Technology. She lives vative ideas by giving them scholarships much effort into developing this project. with her large family in Corona, Queens. and allowing them to have an awards re- The work finally paid off when I saw that This summer, she worked on poetry per- ception at one of our technology events e-mail informing me that I won,” Michael formances as the New York City Youth in either New York or Las Vegas. (We do recalled, adding: “My family was ec- Poet Laureate. this twice a year.)” said Raskin. static. I am extremely lucky to have par- “We think it’s important to recog- ents that actively participate in my life — your recent win nize STEM and high-tech initiatives at a including the academic–scientific side — “I found out I was a Young Innovator young age, because if these students get so they understood just how important during my high school graduation. While some reinforcement, they’re more likely this was to me and how symbolic this I was about to walk across the stage and to continue.” So far, they’ve awarded 41 win was to me. This is the first ‘scholar- receive my diploma, I texted my parents, students and some of them are now in ship’ I had won, and it has inspired me to and I could tell how excited they were in businesses of their own. continue looking for opportunities.” the audience,” Sharon recalled. “It was Three of those 12 highly talented such a great moment to be celebrating award recipients weighed in about their Describe your project our successes and looking forward to recent wins and talked about their out- “It’s a new approach to monitoring new experiences to come!”

12 Manhattan Family • October 2017 Future plans “I’m planning on studying electrical engineering and computer science and applied mathematics. In addition, I’m Next generation planning on continuing my work in research at the MIT Media Lab and the Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Tech- Local teens garner awards as STEM Innovators nology Labs,” Sharon said. “I’m hoping to work as a data scientist or consultant in By Tammy Scileppi the state of charge of lithium-ion poly- the near future, although I’m not entirely “We think it’s important mer batteries. In English, this means sure what my future plans are. I’d really trio of talented tech entrepre- that I am applying an algorithm that is like to work on a startup, and I have a few neurs received some much de- to recognize STEM and typically used for other applications projects that I’m definitely looking into A served attention at the third an- (such as GPS positioning) to calculate scaling up into larger businesses.” nual New York City “Young Innovators to high-tech initiatives at battery percentage in small robots,” he Watch” awards. explained. “My method allows robots, Hobbies In July, the winners exhibited their a young age, because if among other battery-powered devices, “I really enjoy filmmaking and photog- amazing projects at a special presenta- these students get some to be safer and more efficient, while also raphy. I also have a penchant for hiking, tion of prizes in Manhattan. maximizing battery usage to squeeze meditation, and baking.” These students, under the age of 20, reinforcement, they’re out the last bits of power when it’s are actively shaping the future by com- needed most.” Priya Mittal, 17 bining imagination with technology. more likely to continue.” It’s a new way to help more accurately Winner for her GoGreen app, Priya “They have been busy working on measure battery life — an industry-wide Mittal lives in Manhattan with her fam- visionary projects that rise to the chal- problem that he may solve one day. ily. She said her app “allows restaurants lenge [of] resolv[ing] existing societal is- standing projects. and juice bars to purchase imperfect sues, such as water quality, food waste, Future plans produce directly from farms at a 20 per- and physical injuries sustained by the vi- Michael Klamkin, 16 “I plan to go to a university and become cent markdown, to reduce food waste. sually impaired,” said Robin Raskin, the Winner for his Dual Extended Kalman an electrical engineer. However, I under- Farmers can still sell produce that they program’s creator. “Being recognized at Filtering algorithm, Michael Klamkin stand that life may lead me on a different would normally throw away and increase an industry technology showcase is re- lives in Staten Island with his parents, path, so I am keeping my options open. profit margins.” ally empowering for these winners.” both Russian immigrants. “Our family is I have recently begun considering going According to the judges, Priya’s proj- Projects are ranked on their creativ- a blend of traditional Russian culture– into the financial sector doing quantitative ect tackles the important social issue of ity, user design, use of science, technol- values and modern American culture,” analysis,” he said. food waste and feeding the hungry, with ogy, engineering, arts, and math — also he said. “I wouldn’t change it for the a simple database design. She demon- known as STEAM; scalability; and civic- world!” Hobbies strated a keen understanding of the issue mindedness. In his spare time, the clever teen has “I enjoy building, designing, and oper- and tells the story of how “ugly and im- Winning projects include an algo- been designing and prototyping a small ating multicopters (drones); and making perfect fruits and veggies” can be used rithm that accurately measures lithium- satellite called the MTS-1, as well as small electronics projects.” to help so many. ion battery percentages and a smart- studying and writing, so he can get into Raskin reflected on this year’s innova- phone device that records customizable a challenging university and continue ex- Sharon Lin, 18 tors, “This is hard stuff. I’m extremely studio-quality sound. ploring his passion for engineering. Winner for her White Water app, Sha- impressed with the students’ drive to “We started the Young Innovators four ron Lin attended Stuyvesant High School improve how we participate in the world, years ago, with the mission of rewarding your recent win and is now a freshman at the Massachu- today and in the future.” students with entrepreneurial and inno- “The event was amazing! I had put so setts Institute of Technology. She lives • • • vative ideas by giving them scholarships much effort into developing this project. with her large family in Corona, Queens. New York City Chief Technology Officer, and allowing them to have an awards re- The work finally paid off when I saw that This summer, she worked on poetry per- Miguel Gamiño, who spearheads major (Clockwise from top) Michael Klamkin was named a Young Innovator. Priya Mittal speaks to the ception at one of our technology events e-mail informing me that I won,” Michael formances as the New York City Youth initiatives aimed at using technology to im- in either New York or Las Vegas. (We do recalled, adding: “My family was ec- Poet Laureate. audience during the award ceremony. Sharon Lin won a “Young Innovators to Watch” award for prove our city for all New Yorkers, added: this twice a year.)” said Raskin. static. I am extremely lucky to have par- her app for underdeveloped communities that identifies bacteria and abiotic particles in water. “These forward-thinking students and “We think it’s important to recog- ents that actively participate in my life — your recent win their ideas inspire me and my team to nize STEM and high-tech initiatives at a including the academic–scientific side — “I found out I was a Young Innovator Describe your project identify pollutants or harmful particles keep working toward a stronger, smarter young age, because if these students get so they understood just how important during my high school graduation. While “It’s an app for underdeveloped com- in their water,” she explained. New York City.” some reinforcement, they’re more likely this was to me and how symbolic this I was about to walk across the stage and munities that identifies bacteria and abi- According to the judges, Sharon is For more information about the applica- to continue.” So far, they’ve awarded 41 win was to me. This is the first ‘scholar- receive my diploma, I texted my parents, otic particles in water, based on a photo the only two-time winner. Her project tion process, visit http://younginnovator- students and some of them are now in ship’ I had won, and it has inspired me to and I could tell how excited they were in sample, making it easier for underdevel- is based on solid and unique research. stowatch.com. businesses of their own. continue looking for opportunities.” the audience,” Sharon recalled. “It was oped communities to take preventative She’s a natural scientist, who looks at a Three of those 12 highly talented such a great moment to be celebrating measures to avoid exposure to water- problem and knows how to tackle it cre- Tammy Scileppi is a Queens-based free- award recipients weighed in about their Describe your project our successes and looking forward to borne illnesses like malaria. Through atively. Plus, she knows how to articulate lance writer, parent, and regular contributor to recent wins and talked about their out- “It’s a new approach to monitoring new experiences to come!” image recognition, it allows any user to the benefits of her work. New York Parenting.

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 13 High Schools Here’s where Directory

student Cardinal Spellman Dwight School High School Upper West Side potential Bronx 291 Central Park West One Cardinal Place (Needham 212-724-6360 www.dwight.edu Ave & Baychester Ave) becomes [email protected] 718-881-8000 x 206 www.cardinalspellman.org Founded in 1872, this internation- actual. You can have it all – SMALL ally renowned independent school school friendliness with BIG (nursery-grade 12) is committed to educating the next genera- school opportunities! This High tion of innovative global leaders School offers a program of ― one student at a time. Providing studies and activities to prepare a personalized experience for each student for personal suc- each student through the aca- cess in college and in life. Many Fusion Academy is a revolutionary, accredited private middle demically vigorous International of the graduates are awarded and high school where positive relationships unlock academic Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, college scholarships. In addition the school is dedicated to “ignit- potential. With one teacher and one student per classroom, we to providing a strong academic ing the spark of genius” in every foundation for college, students personalize curriculum and teaching to students’ individual child. With one of the lowest stu- are helped to further develop dent-teacher ratios among New strengths, interests, and learning styles. Connect with a NY the social skills necessary for the York City independent schools, demands of college life. Being a campus to learn more and set up a tour! Dwight customizes an educational large co-ed school, students are path for every student based on offered a step forward toward a interests and talents. The school FusionLincolnCenter.com more college-like environment, is proud to be the first in the 212.362.1014 giving them the opportunity to Americas to offer the compre- continue to develop their social hensive IB curriculum for students FusionParkAvenue.com skills beyond the small school ages 3-19 is recognized as the 212.326.9522 setting they are leaving behind, “gold standard” in pre-university while still receiving the support preparation by top colleges and of a nurturing atmosphere. If you universities worldwide. are in eighth grade, why not call for an appointment to Spend- Fusion Academy A-Day? Murray Hill – Upper West Side 450 Park Ave S Cathedral High 212-326-9522 157 Columbus Ave School 212-362-1014 Midtown East - Manhattan www.fusionacademy.com 350 E. 56th Street A revolutionary private middle 212-688-1545 ex. 224 www.cathedralhs.org and high school where positive relationships unlock academic A Catholic College Preparatory potential. All courses are one- school that welcomes young to-one: one student and one women of all faiths and cultures. teacher per classroom. This allows We are a community of students, teachers to personalize curriculum teachers, staff, parents and and teaching for each student’s alumnae committed to achieving individual strengths, interests, excellence in education. We con- and learning style. Our supportive tinually challenge our students to campus environment is a unique become productive members of space that includes a state-of-the- society who will conduct them- art recording studio, mixed-media selves with religious and moral art studio, and a Homework integrity in the pursuit of social Café® where students complete justice. The school has been all homework before going synonymous with academic suc- home. Customized scheduling cess since its founding in 1905. lets students enroll at any time, As a college preparatory school, and take classes at a time of day generations of young women that works best for them. From have been educated to meet algebra to yoga and everything in their scholastic potential. A num- between, we have classes avail- ber of Honors and AP courses able at essential, college prep, are offered as well as Medical, and honors levels to meet your Law, and Business programs. student’s academic goals, what- Very competitive tuition with ever they may be. Fusion students the graduates earning millions are all unique but have one thing of dollars in college scholar- in common: traditional school ships and grants, and going on doesn’t work. Enroll at any time to colleges such as Colombia, at our Brooklyn, Lincoln Center + Fordham, NYU, Yale and many Park Avenue campuses! more. Continued on page 16

14 Manhattan Family • October 2017 Special Advertising Section The Gateway to the World Begins at Dwight School

GLOBAL VISION Five global campuses with one shared vision International exchange programs 17 foreign languages taught INNOVATION Spark Tank innovation grants for student entrepreneurs First school in the Americas to offer the full International Baccalaureate curriculum Dwight Global Online School, our campus in the cloud

CARDINAL SPELLMAN HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE October 22, 2017 – 11am-3pm

• Co-educational, Roman Catholic, College Preparatory High School (accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the NYS Board of Regents) • College Credit, Advanced Placement, Regents, Honors and Elective Courses • SMART Boards and Computer Labs – Wireless Internet Access • 13-Acre Campus • Two All-Weather Athletic Fields and Track • Wide Range of Sports, Clubs and Activities • Free Tutoring Provided by National Honor Society • Homework Assignments Emailed Daily • Student Grades Available Online • Easily Accessible by Car and Public Transportation Where Boys and Girls with Dreams (Trains #2,4,5,6; Buses: Bx 16, 30, 31, Bee Line 60 and 61) Become Men and Women of Vision CARDINAL SPELLMAN HIGH SCHOOL One Cardinal Spellman Place, Bronx, NY 10466 TACHS CODE 303 (718) 881-8000 x 206 | Fax (718) 515-6615 | www.cardinalspellman.org

Special Advertising Section October 2017 • Manhattan Family 15 Belong. Believe. Become. High Schools CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL Directory

OPEN HOUSE Continued from page 14 instilling the principles and values Garden School of the Catholic Faith in a positive, Jackson Heights - Queens nurturing environment. A vigorous 33-16 79th St. academic curriculum, an engag- 718-335-6363 ing spiritual program, meaningful www.gardenschool.org service experiences, and extensive [email protected] extracurricular opportunities A coed, fully-accredited. establish a strong foundation for Independent College Prep life. Advanced Placement courses School, offering an excellent and are offered in all subject areas. affordable education for nursery St. John’s Prep has a unique aca- through 12th-grade students demic affiliation with St. John’s within a supportive, welcoming University. The Baccalaureate community. Small classes allow Program is a special program that talented faculty to partner with allows qualified students at the families, developing each stu- Prep to complete their senior year dent’s academic potential and of high school at the University. promoting confidence, charac- Currently located in the residential ter and success in college and community of Astoria, Queens, beyond. Upper Division academ- the school building features large Sunday, October 22, 2017 ics, athletics, and extra-curricular and well equipped science labora- activities are enhanced with tories, state-of-the-art computer 12-3pm (last tour starts at 2:30PM) college counseling, and AP and labs, wireless capability, smart honors courses. Secure facilities boards, a well stocked library, a include a playground, blacktop band room, art room, a magnifi- 350 East 56th Street, NYC field, library, gymnasium, art and cent auditorium, beautiful chapel, music studios, computer and sci- spacious guidance center, a large ence labs, and a swimming pool. gymnasium, a fully-equipped www.cathedralhs.org | 212.688.1545 | TACHS #202 Lunch, extended care and private weight room, an outdoor track, bus transportation available. and its own retreat center. Lycee Francais de Xaverian High School New York Bay Ridge - Brooklyn Upper East Side - Manhattan 7100 Shore Road 505 East 75th Street 718-836-7100 x127 212-369-1400, www.lfny.org www.xaverian.org Private/Independent Pre-K through Grade 12. At the A private, co-educational, heart of Lycée’s mission is a call to Catholic, college preparatory students to make a positive dif- school for grades 6 – 12, estab- School Guide ference in the lives of others. This lished in 1957. It is one of thirteen focus on service is a natural out- schools nationwide sponsored by growth for the school’s bilingual the Xaverian Brothers. Students French and American educational are given the opportunity to grow program. Students hail from 53 in their faith, intellect, leadership nationalities and are educated in skills, musical passions, and ath- a community that speaks 34 lan- letic talents. guages among them. The Lycée Many unique academic programs is convinced that the best way to prepare students for success in prepare students to become ethi- top colleges and universities. An cal, active citizens is to tap their Internship Program allows students curiosity about the world and help to take part in real-world experi- them understand the many chal- ences in professional fields of lenges confronting society around their choice. Students are taught them. Emblematic of this work is to become independent thinkers the school’s new hands-on “Be the whose learning goes beyond the Change” Social Entrepreneurship classroom. The academic program learning unit, required of all ninth is designed so that all students graders. Please call or visit our will be challenged to their fullest website for more information. potential, mastering the necessary skills, as well as curriculum con- St. John’s Preparatory tent, to be fully prepared for their School collegiate pursuits. Courses are Astoria - Queens designed with an interdisciplinary 21-21 Crescent St approach to teach technological 718-721-7200 communication and presentation www.stjohnsprepschool.org skills. Flipped classrooms make Paving the way for Leaders of the students the center of the Tomorrow for nearly 150 years, lesson while they are encouraged Check it out on NYParenting.com the school is dedicated to promot- to engage in research and work ing academic excellence and to together on class projects.

16 Manhattan Family • October 2017 Special Advertising Section DISCOVER ST. JOHN’S PREP AT OUR OPEN HOUSE Saturday, October 14, 11am-3pm

St. John’s Prep is a college preparatory co-educational high school located in the heart of Astoria, Queens. St. John’s Prep is inspired by Vincentian values and dedicated to promoting academic excellence to enrich the spirit and experiences of its students. Students are not only prepared for college but for life. Faith, scholarship and service are the hallmarks of a St. John’s Prep education. Student character formation is nurtured through a rigorous academic curriculum, extensive extracurricular opportunities and enriching service experiences. Explore SJP’s beautiful campus, engage with our community and learn why so many students choose St. John’s Prep as their foundation for success. • High standards of learning includes an extensive AP Program, College Extension Classes, rigorous Honor’s Program and an exclusive Baccalaureate Degree Program with St. John’s University • Wide range of opportunities in the Visual and Performing Arts • Competitive and exciting co-ed Athletic and Extracurricular Program 718.721.7200 | stjohnsprepschool.org St. John’s Preparatory School 21-21 Crescent Street | Astoria, NY 11105

A Catholic, co-educational, college preparatory school in the tradition of the Xaverian Brothers since 1957, Xaverian offers:

For more information, please contact Xaverian’s Office of Admissions at (718) 836-7100 x117 or [email protected] 7100 Shore Rd, Brooklyn NY, 11209 | www.xaverian.org/admissions | TACHS #0111

Special Advertising Section October 2017 • Manhattan Family 17 memories. Misplaced treasures were re- discovered. Past events were recollected. Family stories were retold. That which had A parent-child been forgotten was remembered. During this period of transition, I have experienced the full gamut of human emo- tions. From being thrilled to find heirloom photographs to being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of paraphernalia. From laugh- role reversal ing hysterically at the contents of long- stored boxes to shedding tears as sewing notions and kitchen utensils — no longer to As parents grow infirm, their children be held by my mother’s skillful hands — are packed away. From the comforting scene of must take on the role of caretakers my father doting on my mother to the heart- breaking realization that eventually she By Carolyn WaterBury-tieman may not recognize him. Combined with the relief of having them comfortably settled atching the orthodontist insert in a safe place is the anxiety associated the first clear aligner into my with the uncertainty of their fragile health. W son’s mouth, slipping it easily Emboldened by my parents’ willingness to into place over his upper teeth, sparked adapt, I choose to adopt an optimistic spirit vivid memories. Years spent with shiny and take things the only way they come — metal bands, clamped and cemented one day at a time. around every single tooth, connected by Reaching the point in time when a par- sharp wires and zigzagging rubber bands ent’s competence and abilities are com- came rushing back. promised can be awkward. Finding a way Nagging discomfort, hurtful nicknames, to suggest to my 86-year-old father that he and haunting nightmares where all my should limit his driving, while preserving teeth fell out or rotted under the bands, his dignity, requires finesse. Casually as- were commonplace from the age of nine sisting my mother with routine tasks that to 15. have become confusing, without causing But one image swept all the others embarrassment, takes patience. Helping away. There was Dad — who accompanied my parents process information and make me to every appointment — sitting close reasonable decisions, while maintaining a by, his face troubled as he observed me respectful tone, demands a calm presence wincing while the orthodontist adjusted of mind. my braces, the tears trickling down his Moving into the role of caregiver for cheeks. Somehow knowing he recognized my parents has been an enlightening and the pain I was enduring made the whole humbling experience. As I cautiously walk ordeal bearable. His empathy gave me the with them, one on each arm into the doc- courage to be brave. tor’s office, they thank me for arranging to Lately, I find my parents frequently in- accompany them to their appointments. habiting my thoughts and featured in my I recall for them the many times they did memories. They have lived on their own nity or move in with one of us. They were the same for me. As I fill their plates and for 36 years. The past 24 were spent in a swift and decisive in reporting their prefer- serve them dinner, they express their ap- house at the end of a country lane where ence was to move in with one of us. Having preciation. I remind them of the untold they moved to be closer to their seven anticipated their choice, my younger sister times they did the same for me. As I drive grandchildren, all of whom they have pro- had already begun making arrangements them from the grocery to the bank to the vided care for at one time or another. for them to live with her. With an elderly- pharmacy to complete their errands, they Earlier this year, Mom was diagnosed friendly floor plan and convenient access convey their gratitude. I reflect upon the with late onset, early-to-moderate-stage to their doctors, her house made the most countless times they did the same for me. Alzheimer’s disease. Prior to this diagno- sense. My older sister and I both committed Like all parents, my parents are not sis, Dad had taken on more and more re- to providing shuttle service, assisting with perfect. They did the best they could with sponsibility for the daily chores. Mom had meals, as well as, just generally supplying what they knew. While their methods were gradually lost interest in activities that, assistance and lending support as needed. sometimes questionable, their love was for a lifetime, had defined her — cooking, With a decision made, it was necessary never in doubt. When it really mattered, baking, cake decorating, sewing, garden- to design and implement a plan of action they were the parents I needed them to ing, and socializing. The time had come to with a timeline that fit everyone’s sched- be. Now I intend to be the daughter they make some difficult decisions regarding ule. The next four months were spent sift- need me to be. my parent’s living arrangements. ing through the combined accumulation Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman has been mar- After a period of investigation and soul of two individuals after a 61-year history ried for 29 years and has two sons. She spent searching, my two sisters and I presented together. The process of sorting what to 15 years as a family therapist and parent our parents with what we considered to be keep, what to give to children and grand- educator, and she has written extensively on their two most viable options. They could children, what to donate, what to recycle, the topic of parenting. To contact her, e-mail take up residence in a retirement commu- and what to throw out was fraught with [email protected].

18 Manhattan Family • October 2017 The Montessori School HUDSON RIVER PARK’S of New York International Wisdom HALLOWEEN through Knowledge We will be opening KIDZ an additional Preschool Class KARNIVAL in January th Sun Oct 29 347 E. 55 St. • 212.223.4630 • montessorischoolny.com 12–5pm • Pier 26 Hey Parents Read this book & you’ll know your kids & money are taken care of, in case anything happens to you.

request your copy - limited supply momdadfreebook.com

Celebrate Halloween with the whole family at Hudson River Park’s 9th Annual Halloween Kidz Karnival! Attention Moms! No more oops. FREE ADMISSION No more embarrassment. Featuring interactive storytelling with Story A beautiful way Pirates, magic with Kid Ace, rides, face painting, to conceal treats and much more. those feminine products All ages are invited. Most attractions will appeal to kids aged 2–8 years. Some activities are free, Visit our website and select activities are $2. to see all of our products and fabrics www.la-pixie.com, [email protected] 201.315.5096 hudsonriverpark.org Find Family online atNYParenting.com hudsonriverpark

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 19 HealtH

HealtHy living Danielle Sullivan

the American Physiological Society. Dr. Ebenezer discovered that blueberries boost serotonin and aid in soothing anxiety by modulating neurotransmitters in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder patients. almonds: The oval nutlike seeds of the almond tree are one of the healthi- est snacks to eat — hands down — in addition to containing magnesium and B vitamins. A vitamin B deficiency can also cause anxiety and nervousness as well as twitching. In addition, almonds contain selenium, which has been linked Combating stress to relieving stress. Kefir: This fermented dairy drink helps align gut bacteria. Many of today’s ailments, including stress, anxiety, and with healing foods nervousness are attributed to having unbalanced gut bacteria. Kefir promotes tress and anxiety are running ram- carbohydrates like pasta, white bread, a healthy gut biome, as does sauerkraut pant in today’s world. While we can and sugary drinks, and salt, which raises and Greek yogurt (with live cultures). S practice slowing down by way of the heart rate and promotes the release Tea: Tea might conjure thoughts of meditation, exercise, and mindfulness, of adrenaline. relaxation and maybe even childhood what we ingest plays a significant role in Alternatively, while the above foods and being pampered. Green tea does how we feel stress. Many foods are bio- should be avoided, there are a wealth of even more: it contains amino acid L- chemically altered and contain chemicals, wholesome and natural foods that actu- theanine, which helps lower heart rate artificial ingredients, and other harmful ally help curb anxiety and nervousness! and blood pressure. Chamomile tea has substances, which physiologically make a Whole Grains: If you are not aller- similar compounds to Valium and works person’s body feel anxious. gic to wheat or suffer from Celiac dis- to reduce stress. Even more concerning is the fact that ease, whole grains, such as whole grain Good nutrition is the basis for good many of our kids are absorbing these in- bread and pasta offer a double whammy health, including stress management, gredients on a regular, if not daily basis. to stomp out anxiety. First of all, they but practicing mindful relaxation tech- Considering their impact on growing contain tryptophan, precursor to the niques also helps. And don’t underesti- bodies, it becomes more important that neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, mate the power of taking a walk, chatting we adjust our lifestyle to curb the con- which produces a calming effect. Sec- with a friend, or turning up the music sumption. ondly, whole grains contain magnesium. and just dancing. Good mental health is The top offenders are processed foods Magnesium deficiency often leads to a combination of many things. Beginning as a whole, but in particular, sugar, anxiety. with nutrition is a very good start! caffeine, monosodium glutamate, high- Blueberries: Neuroscientist Dr. Philip Danielle Sullivan is a writer living in New fructose corn syrup (found in everything J. Ebenezer recently published his find- York City. Follow her on Instagram @Dee- from ketchup to donuts), refined white ings on blueberries in the journal of write.

20 Manhattan Family • October 2017 Back-to-School THE GLOBAL CAMPUS OF MANHATTAN ✓ Nursery through 8th grade (ages 3-13) School Supplies French and American curricula with an international perspective Mandarin introduction in 3rd grade and Spanish in Middle School ✓ 3 campus locations around Madison Square Park Physical Exam ❒ TO SCHEDULE A PRIVATE TOUR, VISIT EINY.ORG Dental Exam

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October 2017 • Manhattan Family 21 Ten tips for choosing a tutor for your child By Denise yearian how reading is kind of hard sometimes? Others go with a tutoring center. Still We are going to find someone who can others opt for an online service. utors offer a wealth of educational help you.” When choosing a setting — either resources for students who need Most students don’t like to struggle, small group or one-on-one instruction T remedial work, as well as for those so if your child is aware that there is a — determine which is the best fit for who want academic enrichment and problem, he may be more likely to want your child. maintenance. help. Even so, expect apprehension and If you choose a group setting, find out To choose the right tutor for your child, offer encouragement. the maximum number of students per consider these 10 tips: class. Convenient location is important, 2. Ponder priorities too. Studies show that more frequent 1. Pitch and persuade There is no one-size-fits-all when it tutoring sessions yield greater results. Before searching for a tutor, discuss comes to tutoring. It depends on your When it comes to cost, bear in mind that it with your child to get his buy in. Keep child’s needs, setting, convenience, and one-on-one tutoring may be more costly the conversation positive — “You know cost. Some people choose a private tutor. than group sessions and in-home tutor-

22 Manhattan Family • October 2017 Questions to ask when choosing a tutor ing more expensive than traveling to a • What age do you tutor? center. • Is it for remedial work only? Signs your child Or do you do enrichment and needs a tutor 3. Reach for maintenance, too? There are a number of indications recommendations • What subjects do you offer? a child needs a tutor. If you see Begin your search by asking your • Do you have summer programs? any one of the following signs, your child’s teacher, principal, guidance coun- • Can my child go during school child may be a good candidate for selor, or others within the school unit. hours? tutoring: Some school districts have a list of tu- • Do you offer diagnostic testing? • Doesn’t want to go to school. tors and are willing to make recommen- Is it required? • Difficulty doing homework. dations. • Do you teach in small group • Gaps in learning. Also, check ads in your local parent- sessions or one-on-one? • Poor test grades. ing magazine or newspaper. Other par- • Where does tutoring take place? • Hiding test scores from parents. ents are a good resource, too. Is there • What qualifications do you have? • Teacher reports missing someone they have had success with? • What if my child has a personal assignments. problem with the tutor, can I get • Unable to keep up. 4. Check credentials another one? • Multiple wrong answers. Find out if the tutor has experience • How often is the child required • Unfinished assignments. teaching the subject your child needs help to go? • Frustration and possibly tears. with. Although the instructor may not be • Can you work sessions • Decreased self confidence. credentialed for your child’s grade level, around my family’s • Parents are frustrated and it’s a good idea to find one who holds schedule? don’t know how to help. a college degree and has completed a • How often will I receive Top tutor training program. This will ensure progress reports? Will he understands educational theory, in- they be written or structional strategies, and remedial ap- verbal? Tips Information proaches. • What is the duration of the helpful to Graduate students with strong con- contract? your tutor tent knowledge may be a good option, • How much do you charge? To equip your tutor in understand- too. Equally important is experience and • Are there any hidden fees? ing your child better, consider shar- teaching style. Ask if the tutor has taught ing the following information: children of similar age and learning style • What motivates your child. as your child. Likewise, consider person- ent, and child. • Whether or not he likes school. ality and attitude. Is he patient, upbeat, Teachers and tutors are aware of what • What his favorite and least and encouraging? Is he congenial with the goals should be, but parents know favorite subjects are. children? their child best and should be involved • How good his memory is. in the goal-setting process. • How he feels about being 5. Tally the track record It’s ideal if the tutor and teacher work tutored. Equally important to check references toward a common goal and communi- • School work samples. and track record. Does the tutor you are cate regularly to reinforce each other’s • Teacher’s contact information. considering have satisfaction surveys techniques. • How your child feels about from past parents and students that The teacher may also be willing to standardized tests. Whether prove he has helped them raise test give feedback on your child’s progress in he gets anxious. What his past scores, improve classroom grades, or ex- the classroom. scores were. perience better homework completion? • If he has specific organizational 8. Request progress reports or study skill issues. 6. Time it right Many tutors offer periodic progress re- Although extracurricular activities ports and will check off goals and redefine and parents’ work schedules often domi- them, if necessary. Ask for a sample of 10. Show support nate the clock, try to be flexible so tutor- progress reports to see if they are clear Remember, parents play an important ing sessions are held at a time when your and helpful. Also inquire how often reports role in the whole learning process, so child is most open to learning. Some stu- will be given. look for practical ways to support your dents need a 30- to 40-minute break after child’s academic endeavors. school, but if you give other kids that 9. View policies At the end of each tutoring session, same down time, it will be a battle to get Clarify policies before signing on the find out what he is expected to do before them to work. dotted line. Some tutors charge clients if the next one — whether it’s memorizing Know what timing works best for your an appointment is canceled without a 24- his multiplication facts or completing child and adjust your schedule accord- hour notice. Others have detailed poli- all of his classroom assignments — and ingly. cies for scheduling makeup sessions. couple those learning efforts at home. Also ask about substitutes. How much Denise Yearian is a former educator and 7. Collaborate on goals say will you have in who teaches your editor of two parenting magazines, and the When formulating tutoring goals, get child, in the event your tutor is out due mother of three children and four grandchil- everyone on board — teacher, tutor, par- to illness? dren.

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 23 The book club Winners of the 2017 Ezra Jack Keats Bookmaking Competition

By Margot aBel

tudents from Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan took top honors in the S Ezra Jack Keats Foundation’s annual Bookmaking Competition. Each year, one citywide winner is chosen from each of three grade levels: elementary, middle school, and high school. The citywide winners joined the borough winners (five from each grade level) and the honorable mentions to accept their medal in a ceremony at the Brooklyn Public Library’s Central Library in May. In addition, citywide winners were handed a check for $500 (and borough winners received $100) from the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation. Students and teachers alike also received swag — books for the children, and gift order forms for the adults, all generously donated by Penguin Ran- dom House. The books were on display during the The three citywide winners’ artwork. month of May at the annual Brooklyn Public Library exhibition at Grand Army Plaza. fought against the Trujillo dictatorship in been topics of interest to me. I used what The Ezra Jack Keats Foundation, in part- the Dominican Republic. The Mirabal sis- I had studied from the Bible to re-create a nership with the city’s Department of Edu- ters inspired me to tell their story so that possible theory: After six days of creation, cation, has held the competition for more they would not be forgotten. I dedicate instead of resting, God abandoned us on than 30 years. my book to my great-grandfather, who in- the seventh day. The reason could be that “Ezra first received recognition for his spired me, too.” the people sinned. I used silhouettes of fairy talent at public school,” says Deborah tale characters to depict the seven deadly Pope, executive director of the foundation, Middle school (grades 6–8) sins. I wanted to prove that our favorite named for children’s book author and il- elizabeth abramowitz, “Life of a Brigh- characters — heroes and heroines, along lustrator Ezra Jack Keats, whose classic ton Beach Sparrow” with villains — were not without faults. book, “The Snowy Day,” won the 1963 Cal- Abramowitz, a sixth grader at IS 98 Bay Perhaps God left because the humans He decott Medal. “The bookmaking program Academy in Brooklyn, created a children’s made in His image were failures, unworthy gives us the opportunity to call attention book about her neighborhood and her fa- of miracles and of His presence.” to the unparalleled benefits of a strong vorite inhabitant. • • • public school system. And we hope the ex- “Brighton Beach is a vibrant, diverse The annual competition begins each fall, perience, and the award, will inspire these area, home to people from all over the and ends in January, when one student- young talents to pursue their dreams, as world, and where being different is okay. made book is selected to represent each Ezra did.” My inspiration for this book came from school and sent on to the Department of Here are the citywide winners: watching the sparrows. I thought it would Education for the judging, in February. be a great idea to write about Brighton The bookmaking process is integrated Elementary (grades 3–5) Beach as seen through the eyes of a spar- into classroom instruction with a strong amber Siurano, “The Story of the Mira- row named Wings. I wanted to convey my emphasis on the study of picture books. bal Sisters” ideas through colorful illustrations that re- Under the supervision of a teacher or The fourth-grader at PS 63 Old South flect the beauty of my neighborhood.” librarian, the students create engaging School in Queens wanted to honor her text and illustrations using a range of great-grandfather by writing about women High school (grades 9–12) media. Expressive writing and artwork are who fought for the same cause. Jennifer Huang, “He Abandoned Us” strongly encouraged. “History is my passion, and I was in- A senior at Manhattan’s Stuyvesant For a complete list of citywide and borough spired to write about the fascinating story High School, Huang made a pop-up book winners, visit 2017 Bookmaking Competition of the Mirabal sisters. My mom told me to test her theories about God. Winners at the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation about them and how they stood up to and “The seven sins and God have always website, www.ezra-jack-keats.org.

24 Manhattan Family • October 2017 Special Advertising Section The book club Winners of the 2017 Ezra Jack Keats Bookmaking Competition

By Margot aBel tudents from Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan took top honors in the S Ezra Jack Keats Foundation’s annual Bookmaking Competition. Each year, one citywide winner is chosen from each of three grade levels: elementary, middle school, and high school. The citywide winners joined the borough winners (five from each grade level) and the honorable mentions to accept their medal in a ceremony at the Brooklyn Public Library’s Central Library in May. In addition, citywide winners were handed a check for $500 (and borough winners received $100) from the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation. Students and teachers alike also received swag — books for the children, and gift order forms for the adults, all generously donated by Penguin Ran- dom House. The books were on display during the The three citywide winners’ artwork. month of May at the annual Brooklyn Public Library exhibition at Grand Army Plaza. fought against the Trujillo dictatorship in been topics of interest to me. I used what The Ezra Jack Keats Foundation, in part- the Dominican Republic. The Mirabal sis- I had studied from the Bible to re-create a nership with the city’s Department of Edu- ters inspired me to tell their story so that possible theory: After six days of creation, cation, has held the competition for more they would not be forgotten. I dedicate instead of resting, God abandoned us on than 30 years. my book to my great-grandfather, who in- the seventh day. The reason could be that “Ezra first received recognition for his spired me, too.” the people sinned. I used silhouettes of fairy talent at public school,” says Deborah tale characters to depict the seven deadly Pope, executive director of the foundation, Middle school (grades 6–8) sins. I wanted to prove that our favorite named for children’s book author and il- elizabeth abramowitz, “Life of a Brigh- characters — heroes and heroines, along lustrator Ezra Jack Keats, whose classic ton Beach Sparrow” with villains — were not without faults. book, “The Snowy Day,” won the 1963 Cal- Abramowitz, a sixth grader at IS 98 Bay Perhaps God left because the humans He decott Medal. “The bookmaking program Academy in Brooklyn, created a children’s made in His image were failures, unworthy gives us the opportunity to call attention book about her neighborhood and her fa- of miracles and of His presence.” Bilingual. Multi-Cultural. Diverse. to the unparalleled benefits of a strong vorite inhabitant. • • • public school system. And we hope the ex- “Brighton Beach is a vibrant, diverse The annual competition begins each fall, perience, and the award, will inspire these area, home to people from all over the and ends in January, when one student- young talents to pursue their dreams, as world, and where being different is okay. made book is selected to represent each Ezra did.” My inspiration for this book came from school and sent on to the Department of Here are the citywide winners: watching the sparrows. I thought it would Education for the judging, in February. be a great idea to write about Brighton The bookmaking process is integrated Elementary (grades 3–5) Beach as seen through the eyes of a spar- into classroom instruction with a strong amber Siurano, “The Story of the Mira- row named Wings. I wanted to convey my emphasis on the study of picture books. bal Sisters” ideas through colorful illustrations that re- Under the supervision of a teacher or Accepting applications for Pre-Nursery (age 2 by Sept. 1) - Grade 3. Mandarin and Spanish Tracks. The fourth-grader at PS 63 Old South flect the beauty of my neighborhood.” librarian, the students create engaging School in Queens wanted to honor her text and illustrations using a range of Adding a grade each year through Grade 8. great-grandfather by writing about women High school (grades 9–12) media. Expressive writing and artwork are who fought for the same cause. Jennifer Huang, “He Abandoned Us” strongly encouraged. October Open House dates: November Open House dates: “History is my passion, and I was in- A senior at Manhattan’s Stuyvesant For a complete list of citywide and borough Wednesdays, 10/4, 10/11, 10/25 at 8:45 am Thursday, 11/2, Wednesdays 11/8 & 11/15 at 8:45 am spired to write about the fascinating story High School, Huang made a pop-up book winners, visit 2017 Bookmaking Competition of the Mirabal sisters. My mom told me to test her theories about God. Winners at the Ezra Jack Keats Foundation about them and how they stood up to and “The seven sins and God have always website, www.ezra-jack-keats.org. 4 East 90th Street, New York, NY 10128 • 212-641-0260 • www.ianyc.com

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 25 Parents

Just write mom Danielle Sullivan

nary and ordinary. When we let go of rigid expectations for our children and start to see them as the beautiful and imperfect people they are, we see them in a whole new light. “We begin to notice the nuanced quali- ties of their character and are amazed by all that unfolds before us,” Tsabary adds. “Instead of medals and certificates being the qualifiers of merit, we begin to pay attention to the joy in their eyes and the Don’t try to live quickness of their smiles.” Dr. Tsabary continues: “The insight slowly dawns that our children are indeed extraordinary — in their very ordinariness through your kid and that we can end the quest for them to be anything ‘extra’ or ‘special,’ for they e all have that friend, or more Dr. Shefali Tsabary, clinical psycholo- already possess all that they need to in specifically perhaps, that Face- gist and author of the New York Times this present moment. Isn’t this a liberat- W book friend, who systematically bestseller, “The Conscious Parent,” writes ing thought? I counter that not only is it plasters their child’s achievements all over that many parents live through their liberating for us to stop the quest of fixing their feed on a daily basis. child, and questions it: “Why is there and producing our children — but also, ul- Even before social media, parents did such a need for us — parents especially timately, it’s empowering for our children. the same on the telephone, playground, — to raise ‘extraordinary’ children? Is Can you imagine the release of pressure a and schoolyards (although not to the our sense of self so compromised that child must feel knowing that who it is they same extreme). In doing so, they made we need our children to wear bells and are — at this present moment — is worthy their child’s achievements more important whistles just so we can feel good about of their parent’s praise?” than their child. Perhaps not intentionally, ourselves?” I think about how many adults still feel many moms and dads trade in their child’s Parenting is about teaching your child inadequate from their parents’ expecta- own uniqueness, innate goodness and the to be the best he or she can be, confident tions, never feeling they lived up to what essence of what they are for awards, tro- and secure enough to adjust to life’s chal- they could be. Imagine a world where phies, and what they can do. lenges, and helpful and productive in the every adult felt good enough. I dare say Unfortunately, this has the exact oppo- world. Parenting is not about perfecting that the violent and tumultuous world we site effect of what was likely intended. The the ideal plan to acquire the most acco- now live in might be vastly different. child quickly begins to wonder what they lades. If most parents would realize that We all want the best for our children, are without their certificates and honors, what they are doing is placing unneces- and sometimes the best solution is the which hinders their self-esteem, instead sary and strenuous pressures on their most simple. Let our kids be who they are, of boosting it. And what’s behind it all has children, most would stop, and it all begins and as they grow, let them become who nothing to do with the child. Whether pur- with releasing expectations. they are, not who we want them to be. posely or not, the parent’s need to feel im- There is no need for a child to be ex- Danielle Sullivan is a writer living in New portant through their child’s accomplish- traordinary, writes Dr. Tsabary, because York City. Follow her on Instagram @Dee- ments is what fuels this behavior. actually, all children are both extraordi- write.

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October 2017 • Manhattan Family 27 HealtHy eating

Good sense eatinG Christine M. PaluMbo, rD

increases the amount of insulin in the Can a teen’s diet bloodstream, which turns on a hormonal response that promotes the production and secretion of sebum, aggravating acne. To reduce the glycemic load of your child’s cause breakouts? diet, encourage him to cut back on sugary beverages and energy drinks, as well as f you notice your teen spending more but rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish? foods high in refined carbohydrates such time than usual in front of the mirror, as pasta, cookies, candy, and cake. I it may be due to the discovery of his Dairy or her first pimple. The same hormones A number of studies point to dairy foods Fat that cause changes in height, shape, body as having an acne-stimulating effect in sus- A high fat diet — greasy pizza, anyone? hair and odor at the outset of puberty also ceptible individuals. It’s speculated that — was long thought to contribute to the influence your child’s complexion. Sadly, the hormones and bioactive compounds development of blemishes. And omega-3 the onset of blemishes can put a damper in milk may be the culprits. For example, fatty acids found in fatty fish are thought on your child’s self-image. one study out of the University of Oslo of as being beneficial. Yet the evidence The role of diet and acne has come full this year concluded that consuming dairy linking total fat or the type of fat is weak circle over the years. Medical guidelines is a possible contributing factor to acne in at this time. in the 1970s and before pointed to diet teens. In the three-year study, teenagers as a cause. Then in the 1980s, the der- who drank more than two glasses of milk Chocolate matology community downplayed diet, daily experienced worse acne. This one goes back several generations. primarily attributing acne to genetics Fat free milk is a greater culprit than The research suggests no correlation be- and hormonal changes. With a greater higher fat milk, possibly due to the addi- tween chocolate in the role of the devel- understanding of how diet may affect en- tional whey protein and casein added to opment or worsening of acne. If your teen docrine factors involved, today there is make the “thin” milk look less watery. Also, notices a reaction to chocolate, it may be a renewed appreciation of the diet-acne whey protein concentrates, commonly due to the other ingredients in it such as connection. found in popular sports supplements, may sugar, nuts, or milk. Generally speaking, in addition to ob- aggravate the severity of acne. taining enough sleep and keeping the What’s the connection? Researchers be- The best method of treating teenage skin clean, the best approach to good lieve that dairy products may increase sex skin problems may be “tincture of time,” skin is an overall varied and balanced hormones, which increase sebum produc- as many teens simply outgrow their skin diet. Yet there are certain dietary factors tion, leading to an increase in acne. For conditions as their hormones settle down. that may also have a significant impact on now, reducing or even eliminating them for Of course, if skin problems are severe or your teen’s skin. a month or so is worth a try. In that case, persist over a long period of time, speak- encourage your teen to look for alternative ing to a dermatologist is a good idea. american diet sources of both calcium and vitamin D. Christine Palumbo is a Naperville-registered It’s fascinating to note that the stan- dietitian nutritionist who is a new Fellow of the dardized American diet may be to blame. glycemic load American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Teens who live in primitive societies do There is compelling research to sup- Follow her on Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook not experience breakouts. Perhaps this port a low-glycemic-load diet in minimiz- at Christine Palumbo Nutrition, or Chris@ is due to a diet low in processed foods, ing breakouts. A high glycemic load diet ChristinePalumbo.com.

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October 2017 • Manhattan Family 29 A kinder world When and why bullies rule, and how to encourage empathy

By Myrna Beth haskell using electronics) has brought bullying to Press, 2012) shares, “Statistically, anxiety a whole new level. Students can no longer and depression are more prevalent and hen I was in school, bullying return home to a safe haven. With cyber- present at much younger ages. People are was an accepted part of the bullying, the torment continues, and there more isolated and are so goal-oriented W climate. There seemed to be is a feeling of no escape. that friendships are not as important.” a commonplace attitude back then that “Bullying is always a problem with so- “kids will be kids,” so victims felt that there cial relationships,” explains Dr. Michele Long-term effects was no one to turn to. Borba, the author of “UnSelfie: Why Empa- The consequences and long-term ef- Fast forward to 2009: I attended an as- thetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me fects of bullying can be devastating, and sembly at my daughter’s middle school World” (Touchstone: Simon & Schuster, the disturbing cases reported in the media called “Ryan’s Story.” John Halligan spoke 2016). “In middle school, bullying is at its seem all too prevalent, such as when about his son, Ryan, a 13 year old who com- peak, and anonymous texts contribute 13-year-old Zoe Johnson, a cheerleader mitted suicide in 2003 after being bullied at to stress, anxiety, and fear because kids from Michigan, committed suicide in 2015 school and online for several years. Halli- don’t know who is sending them.” after being cyberbullied relentlessly. Stop- gan found that the best way to deal with the According to results of the 2013 School bullying.gov reports that even though a enormous pain of losing his son was to use Crime Supplement to the National Crime Vic- small number of bullied children react by his story to inspire change in schools. timization Survey by the U.S. Department of using violent measures, “In 12 of 15 school These types of assemblies are common Education, in April 2015, approximately 22 shooting cases in the 1990s, the shooters in schools today because there is more percent of students ages 12 to 18 were bul- had a history of being bullied.” awareness about the sometimes dire con- lied at school. The Cyberbullying Research Dr. Ellen W. deLara, an associate pro- sequences and long-term effects of bully- Center (cyberbullying.org) reports, “Over- fessor at Syracuse University and author ing. All 50 states now have anti-bullying all, about 25 percent of the students we have of “Bullying Scars: The Impact on Adult laws or policies (to explore state laws see: surveyed over the last eight studies have Life and Relationships” (Oxford University www.stopbullying.gov/laws/). told us that they have been cyberbullied at Press, 2016), reports, “There are numerous However, bullying is still rampant in our some point in their lifetimes.” long-term effects of bullying that plague schools and communities. So, where are What is going on in our communities people throughout adult life. Bullying vic- we going wrong? that so many children are reporting that tims show an increased risk of diabetes bullying has affected their lives? and heart disease. Both victims and bullies The bully problem Dr. Jessie Klein, an associate professor demonstrate greater lifetime anxiety and Bullying is defined by aggressive, re- at Adelphi University, founder and direc- depression than those not involved in bul- petitive behavior toward another where tor of Creating Compassionate Commu- lying. Other effects include difficulty trust- there is a perceived imbalance of power. nities (www.creatingcompassionatecom- ing others, difficulty maintaining friend- Bullying can be verbal, physical, or so- munities.com), and author of “The Bully ships or intimate relationships, very low cial — exclusion or spreading rumors. Society: School Shootings and the Crisis self-esteem, and two to five times greater Cyberbullying (online bullying or bullying of Bullying in America’s Schools” (NYU risk of suicide attempts over a lifespan. Of course, not everyone has long-term effects. However, in my study of over 800 people (as Who is at risk? • Annoys, provokes, or antagonizes well as in the research of others), enough Stopbullying.gov lists the following others for attention. demonstrate these effects that we should characteristics of victims and perpe- higher risk of becoming a bully consider bullying a public health crisis.” trators. It’s important that teachers, (perpetrator): coaches, and parents understand these Two profiles of bullies: The bystander problem characteristics so they can help chil- • T h o s e who have social power and Unfortunately, we’ve all seen disturbing dren with self-image and modify behav- like to dominate others. videos taken of incidents on buses and in iors before bullying situations develop: • T h o s e who are isolated and may hallways which depict a child being ha- higher risk of being bullied (victim): also be depressed, anxious, have low rassed or physically harmed while a gath- • Perceived as different from peers self-esteem, be less involved in school, ered crowd simply watches or encourages (overweight, underweight, wears be easily pressured by peers, or do not the behavior. Bullies won’t rule the school glasses or different clothing, new to a identify with the feelings of others. if the general population (both students school, unable to afford what kids con- • A g g r e s s i v e or easily frustrated. and staff) takes a stand. sider “cool”). • L e s s parental involvement or has “Students, just like adults, are reluctant • Perceived as weak or unable to de- issues at home. to intervene when there is a physical alter- fend him or herself. • T h i n k s badly of others. cation or a verbally abusive interaction be- • Depressed, anxious, or low self- • H a s difficulty following rules. tween other students,” says deLara. “The esteem. • Views violence in a positive way. main reason students cite is that they will • L e s s popular or has few friends. • H a s friends who bully others. be the next target if they get involved.” Dr. Rachel Annunziato, a child psycholo-

30 Manhattan Family • October 2017 for kids to do meaningful work to learn empathy hands-on is so important.” Mentoring peers, volunteering for chari- table organizations, or simply helping those who are less fortunate are great em- A kinder world pathy-building experiences, particularly if they are done out of the goodness of the heart as opposed to a required activity for a school organization.

Programs and awareness Creating a bully-free environment requires cooperation between school staff, parents, and students. In March 2011, Na- tional PTA launched an initiative called Connect for Respect to help students, parents, and educators to create safe school climates. Anti-bullying themed assemblies have become the norm, and many schools have adopted anti-bullying programs that focus on teaching and encouraging positive behavior, but the implementation, consistency, and communication between parents and school staff all affect a program’s success. Positive Behavior Interventions and Sup- ports, No Bully System, and Safe School Ambassadors Program are examples. “There are programs that schools can implement, starting with the youngest children, that have been effective in promoting empathy called social-emotional learning programs,” deLara reports. gist and associate professor at Fordham parents to emphasize kindness rather than However, deLara adds that educators University, reports, “There is research out putting the focus on grades and accolades. are still looking for programs that will dem- of Europe showing that bystander inter- “I mean, when is the last time you’ve seen onstrate effectiveness over time and with vention — defending the victim or ignor- a bumper sticker that says ‘Proud Parent diverse ethnic populations. ing the bully to remove reinforcement — is of a Kind Kid?’ We are raising stressed-out Parents must be tuned into their child’s associated with bullying frequency.” kids who are scheduled to death. As stress emotional and social health. Annunziato Adults need to teach kids how to re- builds, empathy wanes because you are in reports, “Signs that bullying is occurring spond to a bullying situation when they survival mode.” may be changes in anxiety level, moods, are not the target. Klein agrees with Borba. and self-esteem. Changes in peer relation- Klein clarifies that students need to “Deadlines and punctuality become ships are also key indicators.” She encour- be taught the difference between being more important than helping one another,” ages parents to contact school staff if they a tattletale and getting help for someone she says. Klein offers an example of a stu- become aware that their child is being who is in distress. She asserts, “We need dent refusing to help a peer find his class- bullied. “Children may fear that conversa- to encourage communities where kids are room because of fear of the consequences tions with school personnel could lead to committed to protect one another and are for being late. increased bullying. So parents should be responsible for one another.” prepared to explain how steps are being “Bullying is reduced dramatically when Teach empathy early taken to prevent this.” kids who witness it stand up for the victim,” “During preschool, explaining bullying Klein advises parents to help their Borba says, “but most kids will say they do and ensuring there is no tolerance for it is kids seek an alternative culture outside of not know what to do because adults have important. So is character building — em- school so that in-school relationships do not given them the tools to intervene.” phasizing kindness,” Annunziato explains. not encompass a child’s entire social life. Students are more apt to report bullying Klein teaches empathy building games Lastly, kids need to be encouraged to if they trust it will be anonymous. when she visits schools, such as I Have a speak up and tell a trusted adult if they are “Schools must have reporting boxes Complaint. being bullied or see someone else being and the administration must read reports “Students write down a complaint — ‘I bullied. regularly,” Borba claims. “The majority of am feeling lonely’ — and are prompted to “Occasionally, a student or group of bullying happens when adults aren’t pres- work with a partner or group to work out students can try to intervene. This can be ent, so students have to be able to report what the student needs. The objective is to very successful, especially if they are well- incidents safely.” make the complaint into a dream — ‘I have liked and respected in the school,” deLara a dream to have a meaningful connection.’ ” suggests. The kindness cure This helps students to see that a negative Myrna Beth Haskell is an award-winning au- “The antidote to bullying is empathy,” feeling can be turned into a positive goal. thor whose work has appeared in publications Borba states. She instructs teachers and Borba suggests, “Finding opportunities across the globe (www.myrnahaskell.com).

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 31 The right way to clean How instilling a tidying habit now will pay a lifetime of dividends

32 Manhattan Family • October 2017 The right way to clean How instilling a tidying habit now will pay a lifetime of dividends

By Allison Plitt Cleaning is a life skill Ward believes there are many self-help o you have a 5-year-old son who books on the market these days, because takes all the things out of his toy “parents aren’t teaching children the life D box to get his favorite model car skills they need to cope with everyday and then walks out of the room with it, situations.” According to the only re- leaving the other toys on the floor? search study she mentions in her book, Or do you have an 11-year-old daughter the sooner you teach your child to clean who leaves her dirty clothes all over her up after himself, the better. room, disregarding her laundry basket? In the study, when a 4-year-old was Parents need to Or perhaps you have a 16-year-old son asked to do a task, he was more willing show children how a chore is done so who plays ice hockey and leaves his equip- to cooperate than when a 10-year-old was that children understand what is expected ment and gear in his room when he isn’t asked to do a chore for the first time. The of them. By using the appropriate clean- playing, which creates such an incredible 10-year-old felt he was being asked to do ing equipment and products, parents can stench that everyone in the family keeps something he didn’t want to do. If he had demonstrate themselves how to clean an his door closed? started doing chores at the age of four, he area thoroughly from beginning to end. If any of these situations sound similar wouldn’t even be questioning why he was Ward also recommends parents purchase to what is happening in your home, then I being asked. pretty cleaning tools with bright colors recommend you read “Teaching Children Parents can yell at their kids to do that kids would enjoy using. have been tested for their effects on human Since the book can be read by kids ages fish tank, gerbil cage, or cat litter. to Clean” by Schar Ward. Before becom- chores or make excuses for their kids not Ward encourages parents to let their health and the environment,” warns Ward. 10 and older, it is easy for parents to have At the end of the book is a list of games ing an author, Ward started her career as to do them such as, “The children are too children know the “personal benefits” of Not only have people found that their al- their child read the book, which gives in- that parents can play with their kids to a professional housecleaner. In 1973 she little” or “The children have homework.” being neat and clean. They can say things lergy symptoms improve dramatically by structions in numeric order for cleaning help them complete their chores. For ex- began a small residential cleaning service One of the best ways for kids to learn how to their kids like, “Your toys last longer switching to natural cleaners, but these all- each room. ample, Ward explains one game where that turned into the corporation Domestic to clean is by watching their parents. “If when they are taken care of” or “You can natural solutions can be used on multiple At the end of each chapter is a chart parents place treats or small toys in plastic Engineering. you complain about housework and ne- find things easier.” surfaces, saving space and money. that the parent can check off to ensure bags in their child’s room. Then the par- Ward believes that her childhood in- glect your home, they will do the same,” Suggesting that parents make cleaning The cleaning process could then be- that every part of the room is clean and ent tells his child that he has hidden four stilled in her “many years ago, a passion Ward advises. “Children pay attention to up the house a team effort, Ward says the come an at-home adventure for the whole can assign a letter grade to their child’s secret “treasures” in his room and that he for cleaning.” While she grew up on a farm what you do.” family should allow for a certain amount family. Both parents and children could work. must clean his room to find them. After in Minnesota, her parents produced their of time each week to do chores together. pretend they are scientists or magicians At the top of the chart is an area where the child shows their parents the plastic own food, and her mother made the fam- Demonstrate vs. criticize For example, on a Saturday morning, each creating magical potions to make their the parent can let their child know how bags he has found, the parent inspects the ily’s clothes and rugs. As far as results are concerned, Ward family member receives a list of chores to home sparkling clean. much they earned for their chore. room, and if it is clean, rewards their kid “We were poor people, but as a child, says that parents should never criticize do and the same allotted amount of time in Another environmentally friendly tip Included in the book are daily, weekly, with treasures. I never realized it, because I always had their child’s efforts, especially in public. which to do it. Ward recommends is to use old cotton and and monthly chore charts for kids of Ward, however, makes clear that clean- food, clothes, a home, and parents who Instead, parent and child should have a flannel sheets and terry cloth towels and different age groups. Ward also lets the ing isn’t really about games and treats. loved me,” Ward recounts. discussion about how to do something cor- Healthier home cut them into pieces for cleaning cloths. parents know where they can find these She mentions that the first thing a new That idea of responsibility and self-suf- rectly and then have the parent lead the Instead of buying cleaning products By “repurposing” these items, the family chore charts online to download and Navy Seal is taught is how to make his bed ficiency is a pervasive theme throughout child in redoing the chore. with harmful fumes that could poison avoids using disposable cleaning wipes print out for themselves. correctly and first thing in the morning. the book. Ward believes parents can teach When teaching skills to their children, kids or pets when ingested, Ward explains and paper towels, which will save them Ward devotes chapters to teaching chil- After describing this customary habit to young children to clean by immersing parents should not make their tone “con- how to create natural cleaning products money. Ward also suggests using washable dren to make a bed, do the laundry, clean her readers, she adds, “Teaching yourself them in games and imaginative play. For descending, and always try to explain the by using baking soda, white vinegar, liq- microfiber cloths. up a spill on the carpet, put sports equip- to do one thing right every day, leads to older children, Ward thinks parents can benefits of doing something a certain way.” uid Castille soap, Murphy’s Oil Soap, club ment away in a closet or basement, and doing another thing right, and the list just motivate their kids to clean by praising Ward gives the example of clothes needing soda, Borax, and pure essential oils. Comprehensive checklist wash dishes by hand to avoid the expense keeps on growing.” their efforts and giving them an allowance to be separated before washing “to prevent “There are over 17,000 petrochemicals Furthermore, the book devotes chap- of using a dishwasher. She even instructs Allison Plitt lives in Queens with her daugh- or non-monetary privileges. colors from bleeding onto other clothes.” available for home use and only 30 percent ters to cleaning every room of the house. kids on how to clean up a pet’s area, like a ter.

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 33 (Left to right) View of Philadelphia from the battleship USS New Jersey. Shelby and Claire visit the Liberty Bell. The corridor at Eastern State Penitentiary. Mighty Penn Fun, food, and history in Philadelphia and Gettysburg

By Jim Graves Philadelphia attraction. It housed inmates In the historic end of town, visit the from 1829 to 1971; its most famous included Betsy Ross House and learn about the life here are many outstanding, nearby Al Capone and Willie Sutton. Using a head- of the woman credited with sewing the family vacation destinations for set and audio tour, you have the opportu- first American flag. Betsy was widowed T New York families. I recently went nity to tour old cells, long corridors, the twice by age 30, and worked as an uphol- with my wife and daughters (ages 10 and exercise yard, and many other aspects of sterer and was involved in the Revolution- 11) to two of them in Pennsylvania: Phila- the prison — including a Jewish synagogue. ary War. You can take an audio tour while delphia and Gettysburg. Below are some Listen to audio tales from former prison in- viewing exhibits throughout the house; at highlights from our trip, which included mates and staff. There are many interesting the end of the tour, meet a Betsy Ross liv- historical attractions, fun, food, and some- exhibits about prison life and events, such ing history character who demonstrates times, historical food: as the entrance to a 97-foot tunnel dug by to children how to make five-pointed flag inmates in a 1945 escape attempt. stars by folding the fabric and cutting it Philadelphia Several blocks away from the Peniten- with fabric shears. In the bottom floor of Attractions tiary is the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the house, there is a hands-on exhibit with Two of Philadelphia’s most famous at- an iconic building offering world class art, objects kids can handle; we also enjoyed tractions are Independence Hall and the including an impressive Impressionist col- the House’s gift shop. There is a conces- Liberty Bell. Independence Hall was where lection featuring the work of such greats sion stand in the courtyard; stay and enjoy the Declaration of Independence and the as Claude Monet. Check their online cal- lunch afterward. Constitution were signed; the Liberty Bell endar for special exhibitions. They have Eastern State Penitentiary, www.eastern- is an iconic symbol of American freedom. an extensive permanent collection; we state.org Reserve your tickets for Independence enjoyed the medieval armor, Japanese tea Philadelphia Museum of Art, www.philamu- Hall online if you’re going March through house, and works from East Asia, and the seum.org December. Take advantage of the free films Byzantine Empire. Go on the first Sunday Betsy Ross House, historicphiladelphia.org/ in the Independence Visitor Center, where of the month or on a Wednesday evening betsy-ross-house/what-to-see you get your tickets. and “pay what you wish.” (Kids ages 12 Independence Hall, www.nps.gov/inde/ and younger enjoy free admission.) They Across the Delaware River in Camden, planyourvisit/independencehall.htm also have a café. Go early and avoid the N.J., is Battleship New Jersey. Whether Liberty Bell, www.nps.gov/inde/planyour- crowds; start at the top floor and work you’re interested in U.S. Naval history or visit/libertybellcenter.htm your way down. And, when you’re done, your kids need a neat place to climb run up the famous “Rocky Steps” and around in, this is a great attraction. This Eastern State Penitentiary is a fabulous enjoy a great view of the city. ship saw combat in World War II, and

34 Manhattan Family • October 2017 All photos by Jim Graves Gettysburg memorial. was once the flagship of Admiral William Dining and filet mignon medallions with creamy Halsey. It was re-commissioned multiple Across the street from Eastern State mashed potatoes. They also have a full times in the following decades, and was Penitentiary is Jack’s Firehouse, an excel- bar and terrific desserts. Maggiano’s Little finally retired in 1991. You follow a tour lent restaurant housed in a 19th century Italy has generous portions, and it’s very route throughout the ship — lots of steep fire station. The restaurant is open for kid-friendly. stairways and low ceilings — and see the lunch and dinner; we went for the weekend When you’re visiting Independence Hall, big guns, living quarters, barber shop, brunch. The décor is fantastic with its high stop by the Red Owl Tavern in Center City laundry, navigation area, missiles, galley, ceilings, old wood, and even a brass fire- for a meal. It’s directly across from Inde- and much more. From the ship’s deck, man’s pole. Sit indoors or outdoors. It has pendence Hall and the Liberty Bell, and you can enjoy great views of the Delaware a unique variety of Southern food. They has outstanding food for the whole family. River and Philadelphia. have some great soups, such as black-eyed We stopped by for brunch, which included Battleship New Jersey, www.battleship- peas and ham, and other crowd-pleasers waffles, pastries, French toast with apple newjersey.org such as the Philly cheesesteak, pulled cranberry compote and streusel, quiche, pork sandwich, burgers and homemade fruit, egg dishes and some great juices. We Lodging fries, spinach salad with grilled shrimp, also sampled some lunch items; try the We stayed three nights at The Wind- and crab cakes. Philly cheesesteak or the tavern burger. sor Suites, a perfect choice for families in They have a great selection of beers; They make their own breakfast pastries the downtown area. We had a large, one- their Bloody Mary is highly rated. Save and bread on-site. bedroom suite, with two double beds and room for dessert; we had warm chocolate For ice cream, make a stop at The Frank- a queen-sized sofa bed in the living room. chip cookies and butter cake. lin Fountain at the end of Market Street It also had a large walk-in closet, fully- At Reading Terminal Market, a busy in the historic section of town. This is the equipped kitchenette and a balcony with a shopping area in the heart of the city, we place for homemade ice cream as well as nice view of the city. It is centrally located, tried Maggiano’s Little Italy. This is the sundaes, shakes, banana splits, and floats. near many attractions, such as the magnif- place to go for Italian pizzas and pastas They offer many flavors and generous por- icent Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and and an assortment of specialty dishes tions. It has an old-fashioned feel with Paul and the Philadelphia Art Museum. and appetizers. You can’t go wrong with friendly, young servers. It’s well known in The Windsor Suites, www.thewindsorsuites. their lasagna, flatbread, or ravioli. Other the community, and the lines are long. (The com good options include their chopped salad Continued on following page

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 35 Franklin Fountain only accepts cash.) The City Tavern Restaurant takes you back to colonial times with food and am- biance that our founding fathers would have enjoyed in the 18th century. It is the brainchild of chef Walter Staib, the host of the Emmy Award-winning show “A Taste of History” and a cookbook author. City Tavern features colonial-style fur- nishings, pewter goblets, live harp music, and costumed servers. You can enjoy period breads and pastries, crab cakes, corn chowder, and pepperpot soup, tur- key pot pie, or lobster pie. There is also a kids’ menu. If you want to try libations like those our founding fathers savored, order an “ales of the Revolution” sampler. Save Gettysburg battlefield. room for desserts such as a fruit cob- bler or Martha Washington’s chocolate actor Morgan Freeman, and the restored Dining mousse cake. Gettysburg Cyclorama, which recounts There is no shortage of terrific restau- We also dined at the Iron Hill Brewery & Pickett’s Charge, the climax of the three- rants in Gettysburg; we chose to start at Restaurant, which has locations through- day battle. the Appalachian Brewing Company, which out Philadelphia and the surrounding After spending some time at the center, is located across the parking lot from states. We went to the Maple Shade, N.J. you can head out to the battlefield, best the Wyndham Gettysburg. It features pub location after visiting Battleship New viewed with the assistance of a licensed house classics and dishes with a twist: Jersey. This is the place to go for pizza, battlefield guide. We enjoyed a two-hour Rockfish tacos, Thai coconut chicken and burgers, steaks, soups, sandwiches, sal- tour in which the guide drove our car, gumbo, fish and chips, ribs, burgers, sand- ads, and fish and chips. They brew their stopping along the way at significant wiches, soups, and salads. We also sam- own beer, so they have many craft beers points. He had the ability to quickly show pled their excellent craft beers; each of on tap. (Try the sampler.) They also have me elements of the battlefield I had read Appalachian Brewery Company’s six Penn- a kids’ menu, and some outstanding des- about, which I subsequently went back sylvania locations has its own small-batch, serts — try the Triple Chocolate Hill. and toured on my own afterward. There craft beer brewery. Appalachian Brewery Jack’s Firehouse, www.jacksfirehouse.com/ are many monuments to soldiers and old Company has two Gettysburg locations, default.aspx cannons throughout the site, along with the second being on the battlefield, as well Maggiano’s Little Italy, www.maggianos. magnificent scenery which made for some as its original location in Harrisburg. com great photographs. When you’re in downtown historic Get- Red Owl Tavern in Center City, www.re- Destination Gettysburg (www.destina- tysburg, try The Pub and Restaurant on dowltavern.com tiongettysburg.com) is a great resource Lincoln Square. It’s a great place for a The Franklin Fountain, www.franklinfoun- when you’re planning a trip, including din- burger or pizza; the soups and salads are tain.com ing and lodging options. fabulous as well. We had good luck with City Tavern Restaurant, www.citytavern. National Park Service Museum and Visi- the spinach salad and French onion soup. com tor Center, www.nps.gov/gett/planyourvisit/ They also offer a kids’ menu. It has a great Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, www.iron- visitorcenters.htm location in the center of town. hillbrewery.com Licensed Gettysburg battlefield guides, Definitely make time to visit historic www.gettysburgfoundation.org/14/gettysburg- Dobbin House Tavern, a historic 1776 Gettysburg battlefield-tours home converted into a restaurant, pub, Gettysburg has something for every- Destination Gettysburg, www.destination- and bed & breakfast. We enjoyed an up- one. If you love history, read up on the gettysburg.com scale dinner in the restaurant; its elegant battle, so when you arrive, every field, atmosphere pairs nicely with the menu of ridge, hill, cluster of rocks, clump of trees Lodging deliciously prepared seafood, steak, and and building will have meaning to you. Or, There are many fine hotel choices in poultry dishes. Desserts include home- if you’re there for beautiful scenery and and around Gettysburg. We opted for the made pies and cheesecake. Take a tour of great restaurants, there’s plenty of both. affordable and family-friendly Wyndham the building when you’re done eating, as My children enjoyed the simple pleasure Gettysburg, just off Interstate 15, which it was once part of the Underground Rail- of climbing on the large rocks of Devil’s runs alongside the town. Our room had road, which hid fleeing slaves. Den, one of the many interesting features two queen beds; other amenities included Appalachian Brewing Company, abcbrew. of the battlefield. a large indoor pool, a well-equipped fit- com ness room, and complimentary parking. We The Pub and Restaurant, the-pub.com/the- Attractions opted to have breakfast both mornings at pub The place to start is the National Park the hotel; all was delicious. Like everything Dobbin House Tavern, www.dobbinhouse. Service Museum and Visitor Center. It fea- else in and around the town, there was a com tures innumerable displays and historic strong Civil War theme in the hotel décor. items telling the story of the battle and life Wyndham Gettysburg, www.wyndhamho- Philadelphia and Gettysburg are two during the Civil War. Highlights include the tels.com/wyndham/gettysburg-pennsylvania/ fabulous attractions for New York families. film “A New Birth of Freedom,” narrated by wyndham-gettysburg/overview We hope to be back soon.

36 Manhattan Family • October 2017 SOLVE YOUR CHILD’S READING PROBLEM ACHIEVE 3 TO 6 YEARS OF READING IMPROVEMENT IN ONE YEAR!!!

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October 2017 • Manhattan Family 37 Calendaroctober Photo by Richard Termine Peter and the Wolf and other stories Hear three stories brought to life “The Mountain That Loved a Bird” by through music by the Orchestra of St. Alice McLerran, and “The Dot and the Luke’s at Carnegie Hall on Oct. 14. Line” by Norton Juster. The orchestra returns to the famed Family concert on Oct. 14 at 2 pm. concert venue to perform Prokofiev’s Tickets are $10 to $22. classic “Peter and the Wolf,” read by Carnegie Hall’s Perelman Stage [154 W. John Lithgow, and two new composi- 57th St. at Seventh Avenue in Midtown; (212) tions: Caroline Shaw’s adaptation of 247–7800, http://carnegiehall.org]

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Sun, Oct. 1 In Manhattan Rise Up Against Addiction 5K 2017: Pier 84, West 44th Street and 12th Avenue; https://5knewyork.shatterproofgetinvolved. org; 8:30 am. Shatterproof, a national nonprofit dedicated to ending the stigma of addiction, will host a 5K Run/Walk as part of its Rise Up All’s fair in Fort Tryon Park Against Addiction campaign. Participants are invited to run/walk 5 kilometers to show sup- Damsels in distress, knights in shin- wide variety of period items, food, and port for anyone who has been touched by ing armor, and jugglers and jesters de- drink, and artisans will demonstrate addiction and bring the disease of addiction scend on Fort Tryon Park on Oct. 1 for their crafts. into the light. Guests will have the opportu- the Medieval Festival. Medieval Festival, Oct. 1 from 11:30 nity to engage in activities geared towards Take a trip back in time and experi- am to 6 pm. Admission is free. uniting the community. ence the excitement of jousting and Fort Tryon Park [Margaret Corbin Yorkville Kids Carnival: Seabury Play- juggling. Drive between Henry Hudson Parkway ground, Lexington Ave. and E. 96th Street; Costumed vendors and characters and Broadway in Inwood, (212) 795–1388; 11 am to 3 pm; Free. stroll through the grounds to sell a www.nycgovparks.org]. Free food! Free Drinks! Free games! Pre- sented by the Yorkville Youth Athletic Associ- ation in celebration of their 50th anniversary of serving the families of New York. Transverse; (347) 559–6223; www.Accom- making repetitive shapes on paper and fabric pliceTheShow.com; Noon; $65 (one child, to create vibrant printed pattern. Urban Farm Exploration Day: Randall’s one adult). Island Park, Randall’s Island; www.nycgov- Join this grand adventure where you will Tues, Oct. 3 parks.org; 11 am to 5pm; Free. experience a world of fanciful characters who Explore and learn about the great variety use puzzles, games, and crafts to move the In Manhattan of colorful fruits and vegetables, chickens, story along in this one-of-a-kind immersive Eloise Storytime: New-York Histori- and even rice paddies at our Urban Farm. Ask fairy tale. Through castles, over streams, and cal Society, 170 Central Park West at 77th our Urban Farmers about all that’s growing! under troll bridges, your kids will encoun- Street; (212) 873–3400; nyhistory.org; 1 pm Medieval Festival: Fort Tyron Park ter a mythical world. Advanced registration to 4 pm; Free with museum admission. (Margaret Corbin Dirve and Lawns), Henry required. Come to the Eloise at the museum corner Hudson Parkway and W. 190th Street; (212) “Swan Lake”: Lincoln Center of the Per- and listen to the exploits of the Plaza’s most 795–1388; www.nycgovparks.org; 11:30 am forming Arts, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza; (212) famous resident. to 6 pm; Free. 875–5374; www.lincolncenter.org; 3 pm; The park is transformed into a medieval Tickets start at $30. market town decorated with bright banners Wed, Oct. 4 and processional flags. Performers, guests, The stunning romantic ballet is shaped by In Manhattan and festival-goers dress in costume. Visitors Tschaikovsky’s heartbreakingly beautiful score and the central role of Odette/Odile, an in- Pallisades in Plaster: Cloisters Lawn at are greeted by authentic period music, dance, Fort Tryon Park, Margaret Corbin Drive and magic, and minstrels, as well as jugglers and terpretation that is both technically and emo- tionally demanding. Fort Tryon Place; (212) 795–1388; RSVP@ jesters. The afternoon is concluded with a FortTryonParkTrust.org. www.nycgovparks. thrilling joust between four knights on horse- Vegetable Prints: Children’s Museum of org; 10 am to 11:30 am; Free. back. Please note: There will be no cash dis- the Arts, 103 Charlton St. at Hudson Street; Join artist Jenae Schwartz in making rock pensers at the festival. Most areas are wheel- (212) 274–0986; www.cmany.org; 4:30 pm; sculptures inspired by the magnificent forma- chair accessible; however, those with mobility Free with general admission. tions of the Palisades. Use plaster strips made issues may experience difficulty maneuvering Inspired by the work of the contemporary from mineral gypsum to create your own re- on lawn areas. textile designer Lotta Jansdotter, young art- lief or rock sculpture and add color to tint. “The Quest for the Seven Teeth:” ists will explore the art of printmaking using Suitable for children ages 5 to 12. Space is Near Belvedere Castle, 79th Street and the vegetables! Museum visitors will practice limited and RSVP is required.

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 39 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Eloise Storytime: 1 pm to 4 pm. New- York Historical Society. See Tuesday, Oct. 3.

Thurs, Oct. 5 In Manhattan New York Comic Con: Javits Center, 655 West 34th St. and 11th Avenue; www.newy- orkcomiccon.com/Home; Noon; $45 per day; per person. New York Comic Con, the East Coast’s biggest and most exciting popular culture convention, is back. The show will feature events, panels, screenings and more at the Javits Center, Madison Square Garden, the Hammerstein Ballroom and other spaces across New York City. Throughout the convention fans can expect programming from AMC’s “The Walking Dead,” Universal’s “Pa- cific Rim: Uprising” featuring John Boyega and Scott Eastwood, “Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” and more. Fans will also have a chance to interact with some of the biggest names in entertainment including Wil- liam Shatner, Mark Hamill, Felicity Jones, and Halloween murder mystery more Keanu Reeves, John Krasinski, Rosario Dawson, and more! It’s tricks, treats, and mystery at the case. Appropriate for adults and fami- Halloween Murder Mystery whodunnit lies with children 10 and older. Eloise Storytime: 1 pm to 4 pm. New- at the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum Halloween Murder Mystery, Oct. 21, York Historical Society. See Tuesday, Oct. 3. and Garden on Oct. 21, 27, 28. 27, 28 at 6:15 pm and 7:30 pm. Tickets In the studio: Children’s Museum of the In this fictional mystery game, $25, $15 for children under 12 and Arts, 103 Charlton St. at Hudson Street; loosely based on an historic newspa- museum members. Reservations re- (212) 274–0986; www.cmany.org; 2 pm to 6 per account, an unidentified skeleton quired. pm; Free with general admission. has been discovered at the Mount Ver- Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Gar- Lisa Marie Ludwig is a New York-based art- non Hotel. Families will explore the mu- den [421 E. 61st St. between First and York ist who creates installations that encourage collaboration with the community. Lisa will seum by candlelight and collect clues avenues on the Upper East Side, (212) work on site with families. to unravel the mystery and solve the 838–6878; www.mvhm.org]. Sukkah Decorating Party: 92Y, 1395 Lexington Ave. at E. 91st Street; (212) 415– 5500; www.92y.org; 3:30 pm; $18. able rain ponchos at a baseball game, the New York Comic Con: Noon. Javits Cen- Learn about the joyous festival of Sukkot as songs and stories explode with the creative ter. See Thursday, Oct. 5. energy that only a child could possess. you help to bring the 92nd Street Y’s rooftop Watson Adventures’ Secrets of Cen- sukkah to life. Create colorful craft projects, The Happy Racers: Lincoln Center of the tral Park Family Scavenger Hunt: sing, and celebrate with family and friends. Performing Arts, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza; Central Park, Fifth Avenue and 64th Street, (212) 875–5374; www.lincolncenter.org; 11 (877) 946–4868; (877-9GO-HUNT); rsvp@ Fri, Oct. 6 am; Free. watsonadventures.com; www.watsonadventures.com/public/event/the-secrets-of-cen- In Manhattan Live onstage is where the real fun happens for this fast-moving, adventurous band that tral-park-family-scavenger-hunt; 10:30 am; New York Comic Con: Noon. Javits Cen- will get your kids dancing to every groove $17.50-$21.50. ter. See Thursday, Oct. 5. and singing along to every catchy lyric. For Kids and adults work together to explore Eloise Storytime: 1 pm to 4 pm. New- children ages 2–5. Seating is available on a the park below 72nd Street. To score points, York Historical Society. See Tuesday, Oct. 3. first-come, first-served basis. you’ll have to find Stuart Little, stick your tongue out at a rude animal, learn the motto Urban Farm Exploration Day: 11 am of a hidden eagle, decipher a secret code by Sat, Oct. 7 to 5 pm. Randall’s Island Park. See Sunday, the pond seen in “Home Alone 2,” find a Oct. 1. In Manhattan witch turned to stone, and more. For ages Little Red Lighthouse Festival: Little 7 and up. Kids must be accompanied by an Story Pirates: Symphony Space, 2537 adult. Advance purchase is required. Broadway at W. 94th Street; (212) 864– Red Lighthouse at Fort Washington Park, W. 5400; www.symphonyspace.org; 11 am and 181st Street and Plaza Lafayette; 311; www. Further Afield 2 pm; $17 ($14 members). nycgovparks.org; Noon to 4 pm; Free. Using stories submitted by children, Celebrate Manhattan’s only remaining Sun, Oct. 8 the Story Pirates create outlandishly funny lighthouse with Urban Park Ranger educa- sketches and mini-musicals that leave kids tional presentations, visits to the lighthouse In Manhattan and their parents howling in the aisles. interior, readings of eponymous children’s Urban Farm Exploration Day: 11 am Whether it’s following the adventures of a book, fishing clinics, live music, food vendors, to 5 pm. Randall’s Island Park. See Sunday, superhero baby, or reminiscing about dispos- and fun family activities! Oct. 1.

40 Manhattan Family • October 2017 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar

Indigenous Peoples Celebration: Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island; www. nycgovparks.org; 11 am to 5pm; Free. Pow wows and festival. Magic tales New York Comic Con: Noon. Javits Cen- It’s a day of wizards, witches, war- ter. See Thursday, Oct. 5. riors and fun at a book signing at the Thalia Kids’ Book Club on Oct. 15. Mon, Oct. 9 Cressida Cowell, the author of “How to Train Your Dragon,” presents her In Manhattan enchanting new novel, an exciting ad- Indigenous Peoples Celebration: 11 venture filled with giants, witches, am to 5 pm. Randall’s Island Park. See Sun- day, Oct. 8. wizards, warriors, and the mysterious wildwoods. Cowell will be joined by author Claire Thurs, Oct. 12 Legrand (“Foxheart”) for an afternoon In Manhattan of conversation, art, fun activities, and In the studio: 2 pm to 6 pm. Children’s a reading from “The Wizards of Once!” Museum of the Arts. See Thursday, Oct. 5. Appropriate for children 8 to 12-years- old. Fri, Oct. 13 Cressida Cowell at the Thalia Kids’ Book Club, Oct. 15 at 12 pm; Admission In Manhattan $17, $14 for members. Thalia Kids’ Book Club: Leonard Nimoy Leonard Nimoy Thalia [2537 Broadway Thalia, 2537 Broadway at W. 94th Street; at W. 94th Street on the Upper West Side; (212) 316–4962; www.symphonyspace.org; (212) 316–4962; www.symphonyspace.org] 6 pm; $17 ($14 members). Join the winner of the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, Sher- man Alexie, to celebrate the 10th anniversary collaborated on projects with Norah Jones, Harvest Festival: Fields 62-63 at Randal’s of his iconic young adult novel “Sherman Moby, and Natalie Merchant) and Grammy- Island Park, Randall’s Island Park; 311; www. Alexie: The Absolutely True Diary of a Part- winning producer and Dog on Fleas per- nycgovparks.org; Noon to 4 pm; Free. Time Indian.” Ages 12 and up. former Dean Jones perform their sophisti- Each fall, Randall’s Island Park Alliance’s an- “Beauty and the Beast:” Highbridge cated and spare musical arrangements. Using nual Harvest Festival celebrates the bounty Recreation Center, 2301 Amsterdam guitars, marimba, English horn, recorders, of the earth and the completion of another Ave. at W. 173rd Street; (212) 927–2012; organ pipes, strings, mbira, trombone, French fruitful season at the Urban Farm. Enjoy live ww.nycgovparks.org; 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm; horn, and bass, layers of beautiful voicings music, face painting, self-guided tours of the Free. bring close the messages of each of their Urban Farm, and more fun fall activities! songs. In this modern retelling of a Disney classic, Thalia Kids’ Book Club: Leonard Nimoy a bright, beautiful, and independent young Urban Farm Exploration Day: 11 am Thalia, 2537 Broadway at W. 94th Street; woman named Belle is taken prisoner by a to 5 pm. Randall’s Island Park. See Sunday, (212) 316–4962; www.symphonyspace.org; beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she be- Oct. 1. 1 pm; $17 ($14 members). friends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns “Peter and the Wolf and Other Sto- The author of “How to Train Your Dragon” to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior ries”: Carnegie Hall’s Perelman Stage, 154 presents her enchanting new novel, an ex- and realize the kind heart and soul of the W. 57th St. at Seventh Avenue; (212) 247– citing adventure filled with giants, witches, true Prince within. Bring a blanket to sit on, 7800; carnegiehall.org; 2 pm; $10 to $22. wizards, warriors, and the mysterious wild- there will be a limited supply of chairs avail- Orchestra of St. Luke’s returns to Carn- woods. Cressida Cowell will be joined by au- able. Bottled water is OK, but no glass. Space thor Claire Legrand (“Foxheart”) for an after- is available on a first-come, first-served basis. egie Hall and peforms three stories that are brought to life through music. Prokofiev’s noon of conversation, art, fun activities, and classic “Peter and the Wolf” and two new a reading from “The Wizards of Once.” For Sat, Oct. 14 compositions: Caroline Shaw’s adaptation of children 8 to 12 years of age. In Manhattan “The Mountain That Loved a Bird” by Alice McLerran, and “The Dot and the Line” by Tues, Oct. 17 Shababa Saturdays: 92Y, 1395 Lexing- Norton Juster. ton Ave. at E. 91st Street; (212) 415–5500; In Manhattan www.92y.org; 10:30 am; Free. Sun, Oct. 15 Family Party: American Museum of Natu- A playful and soulful Shabbat experience ral History, Central Park West at W. 79th for the whole family, filled with music, pup- In Manhattan Street; (212) 769–5200; l familyparty@amnh. pets, art and creative prayer. No experience New Families, New Traditions: Mu- org. www.amnh.org; 5 pm; Individual tickets celebrating Shabbat necessary! seum of Jewish Heritage, 36 Battery Pl. at are $85 for children and $175 for adults. The Moonlights: Symphony Space, 2537 First Place; (646) 437–4202; www.mjhnyc. One of the museum’s best-loved tradi- Broadway at W. 94th Street; (212) 864– org; 10:30 am; Free with museum admission. tions — features educational activities and 5400; www.symphonyspace.org; 11 am; $17 Join the musical group Yellow Sneaker and entertainment for children ages 2–12. Go on ($14 members). their puppet pals for entertaining programs an expedition of scientific discovery and join Songwriters and family music luminar- that nurture family bonds and bridge connec- museum curators and other members of the ies, Rachel Loshak (who has performed and tions to Jewish life and traditions. community in discovering the wonders of the

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 41 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

natural world. Highlights include the Museum Science Center, the Tiffany & Co. Gem Dig, the Cricket Cantina, and lots more!

Thurs, Oct. 19 In Manhattan Storytime: Museum of Jewish Heritage, 36 Battery Pl. at First Place; (646) 437–4202; www.mjhnyc.org; 3:30 pm; Free with museum admission. Our storyteller, Shawn, starts this season with new stories and songs to share. Feel free to bring friends and come make new ones. We look forward to welcoming everyone. Drop-in.

Fri, Oct. 20 In Manhattan Shababa Fridays: 92Y, 1395 Lexing- ton Ave. at E. 91st Street; (212) 415–5500; www.92y.org; 9:30 am to 10 am and 10: 45 am to 11:30 am; $10. Get ready for Shabbat with a joyous and active musical experience! Children, par- Jewish family traditions ents, grandparents and nannies are all a part of our Shababa Friday family. Join us for It’s fun for the whole family at New ish life and traditions. this playful and soulful experience of sing- Families, New Traditions at the Mu- New Families, New Traditions, Oct. ing, dancing, jumping and celebrating as a seum of Jewish Heritage on Oct. 15. 15 at 10:30 am. Free with museum ad- community! Join the musical group Yellow mission. In the studio: 2 pm to 6 pm. Children’s Sneaker and its puppet pals for enter- Museum of Jewish Heritage [36 Bat- Museum of the Arts. See Thursday, Oct. 5. taining programs that nurture family tery Pl. at First Place in Battery Park, bonds and bridge connections to Jew- (646) 437–4202; www.mjhnyc.org]. Sat, Oct. 21 In Manhattan Halloween Murder Mystery: Mount Joanie Leeds and the Nightlights: Shababa Saturdays: 10:30 am. 92Y. See Vernon Hotel Museum and Garden, 421 E. Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at W. 94th Saturday, Oct. 14. 61st Street between First and York avenues; Street; (212) 864–5400; www.symphonys- (212) 838–6878; www.mvhm.org; 6:15 pm pace.org; 11 am; $17 ($14 members). The Celeberation Team!: Peter Jay Sharp Theatre, 155 W. 65th St. at West End and 7:30 pm; $25 ($15 children under 12 At this special Halloween Hootenanny, Avenue; (212) 864–5400; www.symphonys- and museum members). Joanie and harmony-driven trio will perform pace.org; 2 pm; $17 ($14 members). In this fictional mystery game, loosely in costume, singing “Confusing Costume” See the magic and spectacle of more 100 based on an historic newspaper account, an and other hits, plus new songs from the lat- children dancing their hearts out, in one of unidentified skeleton has been discovered at est album “Brooklyn Baby.” Fans are invited the highest energy performances you will the Mount Vernon Hotel. Explore the mu- to come in costume for a chance to win a ever witness! National Dance Institute’s Cel- seum by candlelight, and collect clues to un- copy of the CD. ebration Team will perform excerpts from ravel the mystery and solve the case. Appro- Halloween Festival: Harlem Grown, 118 their 2017 Event of the Year, “Harlem Night priate for adults and families with children 10 W. 134th St. and Malcolm X Boulevard; (212) Song,” directed by Bianca Johnson. The Cel- and over. Reservations required. 870–0113; www.nycgovparks.org; 11 am to ebration Team dancers are kids ages 9 to 15, 2 pm; Free. drawn from schools throughout the metro Fri, Oct. 27 This is an end of year celebration and the area. funnest day of the year! We end our season In Manhattan Meet the artist: Field 62-63 at Randal’s with a bang, and our community comes out Island Park, Randall’s Island Park; 311; www. Shababa Fridays: 9:30 am to 10 am and in their best costumes! There will be family nycgovparks.org; 2 pm to 3 pm; Free. 10: 45 am to 11:30 am. 92Y. See Friday, Oct. friend fun, games, and healthy treats! 20. Join Randall’s Island Park Alliance’s selected LC Trick or Treat: Lincoln Center of the 2017 FLOW artist Rose DeSiano to take some Halloween Murder Mystery: 6:15 pm Performing Arts, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza; photographs of your own! We’ll learn about and 7:30 pm. Mt. Vernon Hotel Museum (212) 875–5374; www.lincolncenter.org; 11 this year’s FLOW art pieces, discuss some of and Garden. See Saturday, Oct. 21. am to 2 pm; Free. Randall’s Island’s history, and talk about pho- Our fabulous Halloween celebration re- tographic composition and story-telling. Bring turns for a fun-filled day of costumes, candy, your camera or camera phone (RIPA will also Sat, Oct. 28 spooky stories, and seasonal fun. offer a few instant film cameras to borrow for the event) and spend the afternoon cap- In Manhattan The Thunder and Sunshine Monster turing images that you can take home with Shababa Saturdays: 10:30 am. 92Y. See Mash: Joe’s Pub, 425 Lafayette Street; (212) you. Saturday, Oct. 14. 539–8778; /www.joespub.com; Noon; $12

42 Manhattan Family • October 2017 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar

($8 chiildren 12 and younger. Families are invited to join the band for a spooktacular, rockin’ “Monster Mash” Hal- loween show. There are plenty of treats in store for this concert, with puppets, prizes, and spooky surprises galore. Kids are encouraged to come in costume, and they’ll be invited to jump onstage for a special “Monster Mash” dance party at the end of the show. Laurie Berkner Monster Boogie Hal- loween Concert: New York Society for Ethical Culture, 2 W. 64th St. (877) 987– 6487; www.laurieberkner.com; 3 pm; $39. Laurie Berkner’s Band is going to boogie in full Halloween mode, at this concert featuring songs for the Halloween season, including “Monster Boogie” and “The Cat Came Back.” Everyone is encouraged to come in costume, ready to dance. Halloween Murder Mystery: 6:15 pm and 7:30 pm. Mt. Vernon Hotel Museum and Garden. See Saturday, Oct. 21. Marc Gersh Further Afield Nostalgia Ride: Green-Wood Cemetery, Fifth Avenue and 25th Street, Brooklyn; Harvest time fun for all (718) 210–3080; www.green-wood.com; 4 They have planted, they have Farm, and more fun fall activities! pm; $50 ($25 child; $35, and $20 museum weeded, and they have nurtured — Additionally, join in for the Randall’s members). Take a trip into the past on our BMT Stan- now it is time to reap the harvest at Island Chef Showdown! Local chefs will dards and D-Type cars for an evening ride to the Randall’s Island Harvest Festival use ingredients from the farm to create explore Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery. on Oct. 15. healthy and delicious food in the Urban During a three-hour layover, enjoy a picnic Each fall, Randall’s Island Park Alli- Farm Kitchen. dinner and take a guided tour to learn the ance hosts its annual Harvest Festival Harvest Festival, Oct. 15 from noon fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s perma- that celebrates the bounty of the earth to 4 pm. Free and suitable for all ages. nent residents, including baseball legends, and the completion of another fruitful Randall’s Island Urban Farm (Wards politicians, artists, entertainers, inventors, and Meadow Loop off Hell Gate Circle on Ran- Civil War generals. season at the Urban Farm. Families are invited to enjoy live music, face dall’s Island, randallsisland.org/visit/ur- Sun, Oct. 29 painting, self-guided tours of the Urban ban-farm/). In Manhattan Kids ‘N Comedy: Gotham Comedy Society. The DiMenna Children’s History Mu- complete the activities together. seum will close to the public at 2 pm and Club, 208 W. 23rd St. and Seventh Avenue; Trick or Treat: Tramway Plaza, 59th Street will reopen at 3 pm for party ticket holders (212) 877–6115; www.kidsncomedy.com; and Second Avenue; 3 pm; Free. 1 pm; $18 (Plus one item) Children’s Menu only. Haunted Hallowe’en Party tickets grant Trick-or-treat New York City-style by swing- available. ticketholders access to the party itself only; ing by East Midtown’s Tramway Plaza for Local talented tweens and teens perform families who wish to visit the rest of the mu- spooky photo shoots, face painting and treat original material, which is screened to be free seum must purchase separate general admis- bags. Afterward, go on a hunt for treats at of profanity and abrasive or cheap “low” sion tickets. humor (like fart jokes), and no knock/knock participating businesses in the neighborhood. All ages. jokes. Topics on the table include politics, Tues, Oct. 31 getting old, and even death. Each show features 6-10 kids from the troupe. Suitable for In Manhattan Long-running children ages 9 to 18. Spooky City – Halloween Party: Mu- In Manhattan Haunted Halloween party: New-York seum of the City of New York, 1220 Fifth Historical Society, 170 Central Park West at Ave. between 103rd and 104th streets; (212) Drones – Is the Sky the Limit?: In- 77th Street; (212) 873–3400; nyhistory.org; 534–1672; www.mcny.org; 2 pm to 5 pm; trepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Pier 86 3 pm to 5 pm; $12 ($10 members). Free with museum admission. (46th Street and 12th Avenue); www.in- Join us for our annual Hallowe’en extrava- Come for the treats, stay for the tricks! trepidmuseum.org; Weekdays, 10 am to 5 ganza to experience the spookier side of Wear your costume or make a mask with us pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am to 6 pm, the DiMenna Children’s History Museum! to join in the celebration. “Trick or treat” on until Sun, Dec. 3; $33 ($31 seniors; $24, chil- Kids and their families summon the spirits of our haunted scavenger hunt to find spooky dren 5-12; Free children under 5 and retired the past through historical fortune-telling, tales throughout the museum. Decorate a and active military members). ghost stories, creepy crafts, and, of course, pumpkin to take home with you, along with The exhibit explores pilotless aircraft and candy! Please note: This event takes place other original New York City treats. Family the history of drone technology. Visitors at DiMenna Children’s History Museum on programs are aimed at children ages 6–12 can fly actual drones and explore the use of the lower level of the New-York Historical and are designed for adults and children to drones in police and fire departments, fash-

October 2017 • Manhattan Family 43 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

ion, and art. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show:” DR2 Theater (Union Square), 103 E. 15th St.; (800) 982–2787; Thursdays, 10 am; Fridays, 10 am and noon; Saturdays, 10 am, noon, 2 pm and 4 pm; Sundays, 10 am, noon, and 2 pm; $25–$100. The production features 75 puppets, adapting four of Eric Carle’s stories — “Brown Bear, Brown Bear,” “10 Little Rubber Ducks,” “The Very Lonely Firefly,” and “the Very Hungry Caterpillar.” For all ages. Seaport Exhibit: South Street Seaport Museum, 12 Fulton St. (212) 748–8600; www.southstreetseaportmuseum.org; Wednesdays – Sundays, 11 am–5 pm, until Sun, Jan. 7, 2018; $12 adults, $6 children. The South Street Seaport Museum has a new exhibition, “Millions: Migrants and Mil- lionaires aboard the Great Liners.” The exhibit features ship models, artifacts, and memorabilia from ocean liners, giving visitors an in-depth look at the dramatic differences between ship travel for millionaires in First Class and immigrants in Third Class. Community Rowing: Pier 40, Houston Street and the Hudson River Greenway; (212) 229–2059; www.nycgovparks.org; Tuesdays, 5:30 pm, Sundays, Noon to 6 pm, until Sun, Nov. 12; Free. Join the Village Community Boathouse for Community Rowing in traditional Whitehall gigs, captained by experienced New York Harbor coxswains. Open to all; no experience or reservations necessary, and lifejackets will be provided. Children (under 18) must be Party with some monsters accompanied by a parent. For every rower under 12 one parent or adult guardian must Witches, and gourds, and monsters Halloween season as “The Monster be present. All participants must sign a liabil- — oh, my! Mash” and “Ghostbusters.” ity waiver. You are invited to stomp at Joe’s Kids are encouraged to come in In the Studio with Ezra Wube: Chil- Pub when Thunder and Sunshine put costume, and they’ll be invited to dren’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St. on a Monster Mash on Oct. 28. jump onstage for a special “Monster at Hudson Street; (212) 274–0986; www. Families are invited to join the Mash” dance party at the end of the cmany.org; Sunday, Oct. 1, Noon to 5 pm; band for a spooktacular, rockin’ “Mon- show. Saturday, Oct. 7, Noon to 5pm; Sunday, Oct. ster Mash” Halloween show. There Thunder and Sunshine put on a Mon- 8, Noon to 5pm; Saturday, Oct. 14, Noon to 5pm; Sunday, Oct. 15, Noon to 5 pm; Satur- are plenty of treats in store for this ster Mash, Oct. 28, beginning at noon. day, Oct. 21, Noon to5 pm; Sunday, Oct. 22, concert, with puppets, prizes, and Tickets are $12 adults, and $8 children Noon to 5 pm; $12. spooky surprises galore. 12 and younger. Ezra Wube is a Brooklyn-based artist, Halloween songs include the super Reservations are strongly sug- originally from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, who funky giant grasshopper hit, “Mister gested. works in mixed media; encompassing draw- Grasshopper,” and a riotous rap titled Joe’s Pub [425 Lafayette St. at E. Fifth ing, painting, installation, performance, pho- “The Monster in the Closet,” along Street in the East Village, (212) 539–8778; tography and animation. Wube will explore with such perennial picks for the www.joespub.com]. a new direction, color mythology, which is the study of the psyche of colors. Collectively over time, the painting and animation will il- lustrate a map of ideas and reflections about Hosted by the New York Rolling Fury, this Free. color. In this interactive stop-motion anima- is for children to learn how to play, how to Play is the cornerstone of early childhood tion painting, Wube will continue to evolve scrimmage against other wheelchair players development. Meet other toddlers, parents, the painting by focusing on one color every and learn from the best. and caregivers for interactive play on a grassy two weeks. Pre-school play: Wagner Park, 20 Battery lawn. Sing and hear stories, too! Carefully selected play equipment and toys are provided Youth Wheelchair Basketball: Ger- Place; (212) 267–9700; www.google.com/se — plus water play! trude Ederle Recreation Center, 232 W. 60th arch?client=safari&rls=en&q=battery+park+ St.; (212) 360–3341; www.nycgovparks.org; city+-+wagner+park&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8; Believe, Breathe, Birth: Citibabes 52 Sundays, 1 pm to 3 pm, until Sat, Dec. 16; Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, Mercer St. between Grand and Broome Free with Recreation membership. 10 am to noon, Mon, Oct. 2 – Tues, Oct. 31; streets; (917) 576–1624; /www.birthy-

44 Manhattan Family • October 2017 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar

ourownway.com/blog/breastfeeding- and make new ones. Play table tennis, foos- History Detective Briefcase: New-York schmooze; Mondays, 11 am, until Mon, Dec. ball, life-size chess, and more! Also introduc- Historical Society, 170 Central Park West at 4; Free. ing special activities, such as trivia, karaoke, W. 77th Street; (212) 873–3400; nyhistory. This support group provides mothers with and Community Center night. Great place to org; Saturdays and Sundays, 1 pm to 4 pm, an opportunity to sit and nurse their babies, hang and relax! Check www.bpcparks.org Sat, Oct. 7 – Sun, Oct. 29; Free with mu- hang with other moms, ask questions, and for the latest information. For kids in grades seum admission. get some answers in a non judgmental envi- seven to 12. Check out a History Detective briefcase on ronment. Led by Birth Your Own Way Doula our fourth floor to accompany you on your Little New-Yorkers: New-York Historical and Lactation services. This program is for visit, and start exploring our expansive new Society, 170 Central Park West at W. 77th women only. Pregnant women are encour- Luce Center. Families will be on the case dis- Street; (212) 873–3400; nyhistory.org; Tues- aged to come. Led by Liza Maltz, a birth and covering the past through games, sketching, days and Fridays, 3:30 pm, Tues, Oct. 3 – postpartum doula, and certified in hyno- and activities in our new fourth-floor galler- Tues, Oct. 31; Free with museum admission. birthing. ies. Each free briefcase provides a variety of Held in the cozy Barbara K. Lipman Chil- fun, interactive family-centered challenges. At Discovery room: American Museum of dren’s History Library, this program intro- the end of your visit, simply return it! Natural History, Central Park West at W. duces New York and American history to the 79th Street; (212) 769–5200; www.amnh. littlest New Yorkers with age-appropriate Further Afield org; Mondays – Thursdays, 1:30 pm to 5: 10 readings and engaging hands-on activities. Treetop Adventures: Bronx Zoo, 2300 pm, Free with museum admission. Ages 3 to 5 years old. Southern Blvd. at Boston Road, The Bronx; Families, and especially children ages 5–12, (718) 220–5103; www.bronxzoo.com; Daily, Here Now: Lincoln Center of the Perform- can enjoy an interactive gateway to the won- appointments between 10 am–5 pm; until ing Arts, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza; (212) ders of the museum and a hands-on, behind- Sun, Dec. 31; Climb: $64.95; Zip: $34.95 875–5374; www.lincolncenter.org; Tuesdays the-scenes look at its science. Children, ac- (plus admission). – Thursdays, 7:30 pm, Fridays, 8 pm, Satur- companied by adults, can explore an array of There are two new exciting experiences to days, 2 pm, Sundays, 3 pm, beginning Tues, artifacts and specimens, puzzles, and scien- be had at the Bronx Zoo, and both are part Oct. 3; $30 to $185. tific challenges. Hunt for animals in a majestic of the Treetop Adventure Program. Climb is two-story replica of an African baobab tree Reprising last season’s Here/Now Festival, an aerial adventure course consisting of rope filled with specimens of birds, insects, rep- this 21st-century program combines break- bridges, rope walks, ladders, wobbly bridges, tiles, and small mammals. Create your own through works and recent premieres. Peck’s and swinging elements. There are various lev- collection of minerals, skulls, or arthropods sneaker ballet, one of the most buzzed-about els of difficulty. The other adventure offered from a cabinet full of fascinating specimens. ballets of 2017, and the latest from Ratman- is Zipline, allowing guests to zip across the Gather around an authentic Kwakiutl totem sky, join two Wheeldon works: a contem- Bronx River 50 feet up in the air. pole carved at the Museum in 1992. Assem- plative pas de deux evoking an introspective ble a life-sized cast skeleton of Prestosuchus, mysticism, and an ensemble work for four Boo at the Zoo: Bronx Zoo, 2300 South- ern Blvd. at Boston Road, The Bronx; (718) a 14-foot long reptile from the late Triassic couples who wind their way through eerily 220–5103; www.bronxzoo.com; Saturdays Period and handle real fossils. Track real-time melodious piano selections, including music and Sundays, Noon to 4 pm, until Sun, Oct. earthquakes anywhere in the world on a made famous by Stanley Kubrick’s “Eyes 29; $36.95 ($26.95 child; $31.95 senior - to- three-drum seismograph and explore the nat- Wide Shut.” tal experience ticket). ural world with sophisticated microscopes. Believe, Breathe, Birth: Kids at Work, The annual tradition has upped its spook Teen nights: Battery Park, 6 River Ter- 123 W. 20th St, between Sixth and Sev- factor with a revamped Haunted Forest, com- race; (212) 267–9700; bpcparks.org/whats- enth avenues; (917) 576–1624; www. plete with lurking, crawling, and flying creep- here/6-river-terrace; Weekdays, 4 pm, until birthyourownway.com/blog/breastfeeding- ies; a Halloween hayride with scarecrows, Fri, Dec. 15; Free. schmooze; Wednesdays, Noon, until Mon, snakes, and spikers; and a special Halloween Drop by for a few hours to meet friends Dec. 4; Free. nature hike. theMarketplace

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October 2017 • Manhattan Family 45 New & Noteworthy By Lisa J. Curtis Gotham masquerade Crafty kids can show off their hometown pride this Halloween with these New York City Coloring Masks from omy. The masks are cute black line drawings on heavy white paper that kids can color with markers, crayons, colored pencils, and any glitter or other embellishments they dream up. Recommended for kids ages 3 and older, the set of eight masks includes a hamburger and fries; the Empire State Building replete with King Kong; a trio of shopping bags; a hot dog truck; a taxi cab; the Statue of Liberty; a big apple sporting a baseball cap; and a coffee with everything bagel (or, a sprinkle-covered donut — depending on how the child chooses to color it in). The kit contains the masks and elastic bands. Markers, glitter, and other accoutrements are supplied by the parent; creative ideas are generated by your DIY trick-or-treater. New York City Coloring Masks, set of 8, by omy, $17, www.us.omy- maison.com.

‘Monster’ mash Nail it! Readers ages 10 and up who love the Fo r a H a l l o w e e n idea of vampires, mummies, and all things hue that will set Halloween will shiver with delight over a young witch’s James Crowley’s latest novel, “Monster- heart aflutter, land” (G.P. Putnam’s Sons). check out Nail- It’s the story of fifth grader Charlie matic Kids’ dusky Cooper, who is haunted by dreams of his purple nail polish, cousin Billy, who had gone missing the pre- “Piglou.” vious year while attempting to swim across The new water- a cold river. On All Hallow’s Eve, Charlie and-soap-soluble thinks he sees his cousin and begins fol- polish from the lowing the caped figure. But he wasn’t Parisian brand trailing Billy disguised as a vampire; he fol- gives girls the fun of a manicure with- lowed an actual vampire, who is revealed out the harsh chemicals. to be the Prime Nailmatic’s polish maintains its ‘Duck’ the fear Minister of Mon- impressive opaque, shimmery sheen Open up and say “ahhhhh-dorable!” sterland, a reser- when it dries, and it doesn’t contain the The latest picture book in Tad Hills’s vation formed by usual frightening varnish ingredients Duck & Quack series, “Honk! Quack! the government such as: organic solvents, phthalates, Boo!” (Schwartz & Wade), tackles the to corral “the formaldehyde, toluene, and fragrances. jitters that kids ages 3–7 can develop strange and un- Instead, the .27-ounce glass bottle con- around Halloween, especially when they usual, the grue- tains 100 percent light purple, which are surrounded by masked pals, no mat- some, the dif- disappears from your child’s fingers ter how small. In their latest tale, Duck ferent, and the with a bath or handwashing! (For lon- and Quack are excited about going trick- feared.” The ger wear, we applied a top coat to the or-treating in their ghost and superhero land is team- Nailmatic Kids polish, but when we costumes, but after they are warned by ing with unruly were ready to change colors, we had to Thistle — “Beware the swamp monster!” supernatural use a typical polish remover.) — they are understandably apprehen- residents, and Recommended for gals ages 3 and sive. The Brooklyn author-illustrator’s Charlie has to decide older, the Nailmatic Kids bottle is suspenseful book is so entertaining that whether he’s going to flee or search this adorned with silly and sweet drawings you may find yourself buying copies for valley of creepiness for his dear cousin. of faces. The polish is a fun stocking all the kids you know. Crowley’s charming characters are a stuffer or a fantastic favor idea for a “Duck & Goose: Honk! Quack! Boo!” sweet Halloween treat. spa-themed birthday party. book by Tad Hills, $16.99, www.barnesand- “Monsterland” book by James Crowley, Nail polish for children by Nailmatic noble.com. $16.99, www.Amazon.com. Kids, $10, NormanandJules.com.

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ContactContact us us today today to to learnlearn more aboutabout the the Kumon Kumon Method! Method! BATTERYBATTERY PARK PARK CITY CITY CHELSEACHELSEA MIDTOWNMIDTOWN - -EAST EAST UPPERUPPER WEST WEST SIDE SIDE 2 South End Avenue 320 West 23rd Street 962 1st Avenue 700 Columbus Avenue 2 South End Avenue 320 West 23rd Street 962 1st Avenue 700 Columbus Avenue 212-786-4295212-786-4295 212-242-6528212-242-6528 212-702-8769212-702-8769 212-866-1864212-866-1864 CENTRALCENTRAL HARLEM HARLEM GRAMERCYGRAMERCY PARK PARK MIDTOWNMIDTOWN WEST WEST 2235 Frederick Douglass Boulevard 381 2nd Avenue 747 10th Avenue 2235 Frederick Douglass Boulevard 381 2nd Avenue 747 10th Avenue kumon.comkumon.com 212-866-6201 212-866-6201 212-683-1232212-683-1232 212-399-4124212-399-4124

*Offer*Offer valid valid at participating at participating Kumon Kumon Centers Centers only only when when you you enroll enroll between between 11/1/17 11/1/17 –– 11/30/17.11/30/17. Most KumonKumon Centers Centers are are independently independently owned owned and and operated. operated. Additional Additional fees feesmay mayapply. apply.