BROOKLYN FREE Family Where Every Child Matters It’S Still Summer! Plan It All with Our Calendar

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

Preparing for Kindergarten

Teaching your children about mindful eating

A fun social media detox

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To learn more about applying for health insurance, including Child Health Plus and Medicaid through 5@:[H[LVM/LHS[O;OL6ѝJPHS/LHS[O7SHU4HYRL[WSHJL visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777. 'ÄKLSPZJHYL Brooklyn Family August 2016 Features columns 6 Preparing for kindergarten 14 Just Write Mom A teacher’s advice for the big day by Danielle Sullivan By Alexa Bigwarfe 16 Behavior & Beyond 8 Taking it offline By Dr. Marcie Beigel New game encourages social media detox By Laura Varoscak-DeInnocentiis 18 Family Health By Dr. Pramod Narula, MD 10 Teaching children about 26 Healthy Living mindful eating by Danielle Sullivan A therapist’s new book offers help for families struggling with weight issues 36 A Letter from College By Allison Plitt By Aglaia Ho 12 Nurturing nature’s gifts 38 Dear Dr. Karyn Encouraging your children to embrace By Dr. Karyn Gordon science and the arts By Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman 40 The Book Worm By Terri Schlichenmeyer 28 Fitbit to be tied A device that tracks all my fitness activity? 42 Tips for Feeding Kids No thanks! By Joanna DeVita By Lisa A. Beach 43 Good Sense Eating 16 30 Coming up Rosie by Christine M. Palumbo, RD O’Donnell’s program gives theater-loving kids a brighter future 50 FabuLYSS Finds By Tammy Scileppi by Lyss Stern 32 Senses of wonder 52 Dear Teacher When you’re young, there’s a lot to get by Peggy Gisler and excited about Marge Eberts By Patrick Hempfing 53 New & Noteworthy 34 Philanthropy in 3D By Lisa J. Curtis A Manhattan teen’s passion for changing kids’ lives with 3D printing calendar By Shnieka L. Johnson 44 August Events 30 53 An online minefield How to help your kids, tweens, and teens safely navigate social media special sections By Lisa Beach 20 Education Directory 51 The Marketplace

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 3 letter from the publisher

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

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

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August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 5 and it is very encouraging for the students if you remain calm and upbeat. The children are able to sense when a parent is stressed or sad. Preparing for Can you recommend any good books that can help prepare mom and dad for the first week? The best children’s book I know is “The Night Before Kindergarten.” Otherwise, I think books for parents would vary depending on the kind kindergarten of child. what are some great ideas if par- By AlexA BigwArfe what are the most important things ents want to bring in a gift for the A teacher’s a parent can do to prepare her child teacher the first week? he summer has passed by for kindergarten? The biggest gift is having support advice for more quickly than you Before school begins, you could and knowing that you have parents T thought, and now you may be visit the school and take a tour — to help you. But for the parents who panicking because you are sending visit the important places: kinder- aren’t able to help out in class, I the big day a child to kindergarten. Is he ready? garten hall, cafeteria, etc. Practice know they like to show their support Are you ready? Kindergarten is one getting in and out of car seats, so and love other ways. So for me, the of the largest milestones in a young that the car line will be less stressful worst part of preparing for my day is child’s life, and you want to ensure when starting your day, or visit the making lunch. When a parent offers you and your child transition bus stop and talk about the proce- to bring me lunch that is a wonderful smoothly. dures for riding a bus. gift. Coffee is great, too! Kindergarten teacher Have your child practice writ- As far as a present, I can’t speak Summers McBride ing his name with a pencil. Practice for all teachers, but things we can graciously answered counting objects and counting aloud. use in the classroom are very help- some questions about And most importantly, read books ful: pens, stationery, tissues, Clorox preparing for the big daily and ask questions as you read wipes, hand soap, etc. start to school. She of- the books. There are simple things fers important insight you can do to help develop pre- Any other tips or pointers for moms and suggestions reading skills while reading together and dads? for making the — point to each word on the page as Just try not to worry, and if you jump to kinder- you read, have your child point to have any questions, thoughts, or con- garten: the words as you read, ask him how cerns, feel free to talk to your child’s many words are on a page. teacher. I am huge on communication and being on the same page with where do you see parents putting a parents, so that things are kept con- lot of unnecessary effort? sistent for children. Having great com- I think we are all guilty of this, but munication helps everyone involved. worrying too much about things that Other tips for once the school don’t truly matter — things like hav- year starts: ing to have the perfect outfits, shoes, Bring a snack when you pick your hairstyles, lunch boxes, and sparkly child up from school. Many of the school supplies. kindergartners eat lunch very early, Additionally, do not panic if your so by the end of the day, they are children do not know their letters, very hungry. numbers, or are not reading. Chil- Be prepared for homework. Yes, dren will be assessed prior to school in kindergarten. Many schools give and placed appropriately. There is daily homework, even to the kinder- a large variation in skill level for gartners. children entering school for the first Plan for rest time. School is going year, but by the end of the year, your to wear them out. Especially those child will be caught up to where he children who have never been in an needs to be to enter first grade. all-day program or are still used to taking a nap. Do you have any advice or tips for a Good luck as you begin this very first-time kindergarten parent? exciting and sometimes scary ad- Trust and talk with your child’s venture into education. Remember teacher often. We love your children these tips and try to enjoy it! just like they are our own, and we Alexa Bigwarfe is the mother of three truly want the best for each and young children and a freelance writer. every child in our classroom. She writes about her experiences as a Keep the morning goodbye short, mother and is particularly familiar with sweet, and positive. Some students this topic as she prepares her middle are very anxious the first few days, child for kindergarten in the fall.

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August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 7 “Free Me: The Game” creators Jose Pablo Cantillo and Jeff Levine. Photo by Robert Chong Taking it offline By Laura Varoscak- indiscretion, and both men acknowl- They can only bear to abstain New game DeInnocentIIs edge their excessive use of popular for a couple of days, but this newly technology platforms, despite their found freedom opened their eyes to encourages t all started with a father taking a efforts to keep it at a minimum, espe- the constant addictive pull of social peek at his 9-year-old daughter’s cially around their families. networking sites around them. They I open diary: “My Dad is always They also understand the dam- stop to watch a mother in a play- social media on his phone every min. of every sec- age social networking sites cause by ground. She holds coffee in one hand ond, it is so annoying, he can’t even creating a false sense of connection and her cellphone in the other. While detox look at anything besides his phone. I that fools people into believing they simultaneously texting and convers- wish he could just play with me.” are more connected than ever being on speakerphone, she kicks her Jeff Levine, (a.k.a. “annoying dad”) fore. They realize that being on their baby back and forth on the swing! rushes off to catch an early flight phones for “every minute of every This image perfectly illustrates the to New York, but he cannot escape second” encourages those around ridiculous lengths people will go to the sting of his child’s words. On the them to do the same. feed their insatiable social media ap- plane, he joins his close friend and Comedians at heart, Jeff and Jose petite. business partner Jose Pablo Cantillo also poke fun at the extremes of The trip becomes the impetus for (best known for his acting roles on social media mania. By the time the a brilliant idea: a new, groundbreak- “The Walking Dead” and “Sons of plane lands, they challenge each ing card game that aims to change Anarchy”) who immediately senses other to live without their digital de- the way people view their online something is wrong. Jeff confesses his vices for as long as possible. identities. Jeff and Jose brainstorm 8 brooklyn Family • August 2016 Each card depicts a funny scenario When your child needs that illustrates more than just a Band-Aid... how ridiculous and out of hand social media postings can get. on their flight back from New York the bride had her phone in hand to Los Angeles. Inspired by their and frantically began posting. An- heightened awareness, they apply noyed, the groom asked her to put their sharp wit and dedication the phone away, but she refused. to family to create “Free Me: The An argument ensued, and the Game,” which emerged after 11 groom walked out on his bride. A months of development. few days later, he filed for divorce. Designed with teenagers and After playing “Free Me,” I young adults in mind, players from strongly support the game’s mis- all walks of life are enjoying this sion. Everyone who participates entertaining card game. Its goal is enjoys spending meaningful of- to bring people together to form fline time with family and friends. authentic connections through The game does have an ingenious laughter. Finding humor in social hook: It ends with the loser post- media creates a feeling of camara- ing penalty tasks to their real so- derie, which cannot be duplicated cial media pages. Even if younger through a screen. generations miss the satire behind In this fast-paced card game, the the game, at least they will spend first person to lose all friends and less time online and become more followers is the winner. The first mindful of what they post on social Better have a good pediatrician. and most important rule is to put media sites. Make sure your kids are covered.covered. away all cellphones and electronic As a writer, educator, psychol- devices. There are different catego- ogy student, and mother, I appre- ries of cards that you can give, take, ciate this game on many different or swap with other players. Dare levels. The intelligence behind its cards challenge players to perform design will raise awareness about Contact Affinity Health Plan silly tasks in front of the group. If a the social media epidemic in our phone card is selected, players en- country and serve as an enticing at 866.247.5678 to obtain more gage in “hashtag battles.” alternative to digital devices as Each card depicts a funny sce- the primary means of relating to information about Child Health Plus, nario that illustrates how ridicu- others. The game also supports lous and out of hand social media the serious problem of cyber-bully- a free or low-cost health insurance postings can get. One card shows a ing by donating $1 of every online man standing in front of a machine purchase to anti-bullying organiza- program sponsored by New York in his underwear. A bright orange tions. liquid squirts out, splattering his “Free Me: The Game” has much State for kids under the age of 19. face. The caption reads: “Spray tan to offer the millions of people who malfunction ruins your selfie photo remain isolated from the outside To learn more about applying for health insurance, including session.” world and disconnected from Child Health Plus and Medicaid through NY State of Health, The Official Another card displays a couple face-to-face human interaction. Health Plan Marketplace, visit nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 855.355.5777. sitting at a romantic dinner table. Although the development and Both of them stare at their phones growth of social media are amaz- with smiles on their faces. The ing technological achievements card reads, “You post how great with many benefits, their overuse your date is going. Your date does is tearing apart the precious gift the same. You haven’t actually spo- that created them in the first place: ken.” This absence of intimacy in a joining of hearts and minds. today’s culture is exactly what the Laura Varoscak-DeInnocentiis is a game aims to highlight. teacher, freelance writer, and mom liv- The card in the last example ing in Brooklyn. She is an award-win- reminds me of a recent news story ning contributor to New York Parenting about a couple who just got mar- and a member of the Parenting Media AffinityPlan.org/CHP ried. As they entered the reception Association, and she has a master’s for the first time as man and wife, degree in clinical psychology.

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 9 Teaching children about mindful eating

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

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

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

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 11 science. They are born to create, to want to express and communicate their experience — art. From the beginning, infants use all of their senses to figure out what things are and how they work. Nurturing When they do begin to talk, they start naming things. Their earliest attempts at conversation are filled with questions — what, how, and why. They replicate sounds and hum. Their bodies move rhythmi- cally. Give a child a pencil, and he nature’s gifts will draw. Provide music, and he will sing and dance. Listen, and By Carolyn WaterBury- are a body full of potential. Within he will tell you a story. That every Encouraging tieman that miniature body, cradled in our human culture has art and science arms, exists the potential for ev- is not surprising. What is surpris- your children ooking into a newborn’s eyes, erything he will ever become. ing is how rapidly the artist and there is something ancient, Whether or not that potential scientist is socialized out of our to embrace L yet completely innocent in is fully realized is primarily in our children. his gaze. A hint of the divine lurks hands. We take our young budding art- within the depths of those lim- Like all of nature, our children are ist and scientist and say, “I can’t science and pid pools. While utterly dependent exquisite works of art and science. look at that right now. I’m too upon us for their survival, they ap- As members of the human race, their busy.” “I’m doing something. Be the arts pear to have forgotten more than legacy is to become both scientists quiet.” “Sit still.” “Don’t touch we will ever know. Like the energy and artists. They are born to wonder, that.” “Don’t make a mess.” “Stop stored in an object at rest, they to want to understand and explain — asking so many questions.” We put

12 brooklyn Family • August 2016 sential and prerequisite to the practice of any other science or As parents, we are art — conscience. Just as biol- responsible for making ogy is the knowledge of living things, conscience is the knowl- sure our children edge of the difference between right and wrong. The dictionary develop a healthy defines conscience as knowledge of one’s guilt. I prefer to think conscience, and setting of conscience as recognizing the a good example is implications of one’s choices. Conscience should not just kick the best teacher. in after a poor choice has been made. A healthy conscience is proactive and serves as a guide a screen in front of them to keep when faced with challenging de- them occupied, so we can get cisions. back to our important work. Like all sciences, conscience is By the time children start learned. It is learned by our chil- school, science has become a dren at our knees and elbows, in dreaded subject that seems un- the back seats of our vehicles, related to their existence. Art and in our homes. It is learned has become something they can- by observing as well as listen- not do, are not good at, or are ing because “while they may not not supposed to like because of listen to everything we say, they their gender. They have learned are watching everything we do.” to doubt or mistrust the artist They are taking note of whether and scientist within. Then we the actions match the words. entice them with contests and Conscience reminds us that just trophies to get them enthusiastic because we can do something, about things for which they had a doesn’t mean we should. natural affinity. As parents, we are responsible How ironic that our children, for making sure our children de- as living experiments moving velop a healthy conscience, and around in a veritable natural lab- setting a good example is the oratory with science constantly best teacher. When our children going on inside and around witness us using our perceptive them, are convinced science is skills and demonstrating empa- something that is only relevant thy toward others in our deci- to people called scientists. How sion-making and actions, they unfortunate that they become in- learn how to exercise conscience. hibited by the social definitions When we express appreciation of art and the evaluative pro- for their conscientious choices cess, considering themselves un- and institute related, reasonable qualified to create a masterpiece consequences for their failures on their life’s canvas, assuming to do so, we help strengthen their someone called an artist can do conscience. it better. Jiminy Cricket told Pinocchio, In our efforts to arbitrarily as- “Conscience is that still small sign monetary value, we have voice that people won’t listen treated art and science as mutu- to.” We must make sure our chil- ally exclusive rather than inex- dren not only hear and recognize Promo Code: 161052 • Expires: 6/30/17 tricably connected. There is the that still small voice, but that anatomy, chemistry, and physics they listen to it. Practicing con- of visual art. The physics of mu- science in art and science, in life, sical sound. The anatomy of sing- significantly increases the likeli- ing. The psychology of literature hood that our children will make and theatre. worthwhile contributions to the There is no inherent value of world as they seek to fulfill their one over the other. Each is en- potential. hanced by an understanding of Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman is a resi- and appreciation for the other. dent of Lexington, Ky. She has been Together they make us the unique married for 29 years and has two sons. creatures we are. Together they She spent 15 years in various agencies allow us, unlike any other crea- and clinics as a family therapist and ture on Earth, to understand, parent educator and has written ex- create, and assign meaning to tensively on the topic of parenting. To our existence. contact her, please e-mail parent4life@ There is a science that is es- yahoo.com.

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 13 PARENTING The Pokémon wave ummer 2016 just got even more eventful with the new Poké- S mon GO App. And if you have a child, teen, or even young adult, you know what I’m talking about. My old- est and my youngest have been hap- pily spending hours walking the city in search of Pokémon. The new app JUST WRITE lets each user become a trainer and through his phone’s navigation sys- MOM tem and camera, shows him exactly DANIELLE SULLIVAN where the creatures are hiding, so he can go catch them all. It also locates the PokéStops in your vicinity, which are center locations where users can gain helpful accessories, and Poké- mon Gyms, where users can battle other Pokémon. The game shows you real-life photos of key places, such as landmarks and businesses in your neighborhood, and tells you to go to them to collect more. Yesterday, my son and daughter went to the local playground after seeing that the sprinkler area was a gym. When they got there, they saw people of all ages gathered with It was nothing but fun. Later on, when pursuing a Pokémon, and veer- their Pokémon music blaring from Mike got into the Gameboy games ing into the street, or walking into a their phones, trying desperately to and had to have the Pokémon Yellow high-crime neighborhood because acquire accessories while also grab- and then Pokémon Gold and Silver to a PokéStops exists there, but with a bing that longed-for Eevee (a rare catch the creatures on his Gameboy. little common sense and awareness, Pokémon species). Pokémon had become the dominant the game can be loads of fun. The day before, as my son and I subject of many days back then, and It will surely bring customers to were on the train crossing the Man- birthday and Christmas gifts were many businesses, as users seem to hattan Bridge, the app located a live easy — they were always a game, gather wherever the Pokémon are. Pokémon in the train car that he console, pack of cards, T-shirt, or ac- I’m seeing big marketing bucks for could potentially catch. cessory of some sort. the creators here. Already, stores The first time I tuned into the I even remember rewriting the are putting up signs letting custom- Pokémon craze was in the late ’90s popular 1999 Macy Gray song, “I ers know that they are a stop. On an- when my nephew, Mike, would col- Try” to be a Pokémon song, “I try to other positive note, it also gets kids lect the cards. He introduced my say goodbye to Machoke, try to walk walking all over. If the kids are young daughter Amanda to it, although at away from my Squirtle, though I try enough, it gets parents walking with five years his senior, she didn’t quite to hide it, it’s clear, my world crum- them, so the fitness component is a have the training abilities that he bles when Pokémon’s not here.” Hey, double win. possessed. Mike was the most dedi- it made the kids laugh. I would have never thought that cated 10-year-old trainer you could I thought the allure had finally nearly 20 years later, I’d still be think- ever find. died down until my kids downloaded ing about Pokémon, but the saying He’d keep every card in a plastic the app a couple of days ago, and “whatever is old becomes new again” wrap, and buy scrapbooks in which it seems like everyone — adults in- sticks around for a reason. So if you he carefully organized each card ac- cluded — are hunting Pokémon. Now see a group of kids or adults gath- cording to its Pokémon group (water, they are hunting in groups and tak- ered around making gestures and air, or land). The fun back then was ing pics of the creatures, then Insta- posing for photos with things that that you never knew which cards gramming the photos, which show aren’t really there, rest assured … would be in a pack, so every time the Pokémon on the bus or in the car, and then watch out, because there you purchased a pack for just a or in my case, on my head in a Lower just might be a Pikachu behind you! couple of bucks, it was like buying East Side Starbucks. Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, is a lottery ticket. I remember those As a mom (and a worrier), I can a writer and editor living in New York walks home from the store with him see the potential pitfalls, such as City. Sullivan also writes about pets and screaming, “I got a Charizard!” not watching where you are going parenting for Disney’s Babble.com.

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August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 15 Advice Don’t take a summer break from parenting ummer is a time when everyone wants a break. We work S hard all year and we deserve it! When it gets warm and the days Behavior are long, we all expect time at the beach, lighter schedules, and more & Beyond time with friends. Dr. Marcie Beigel After working hard to keep your small beings in line all year, you may also want a parenting vacation. This means less structure at home and more flexibility with the rules, for example, you’ll say “yes” more often to ice cream and “no” to daily clean up. While it may seem like the right choice at the moment, the reality is that you’ll have to work harder in the longer run. Consider that carefully when you decide to have a summer vacation from parenting. Here are your options, warts and all:

Take the summer off and pay for it as you go You don’t want to scream at your kids at the family barbecue, but I assure you that’s what will happen if you let go of all structure. have dessert every other day rather is seamless. Your kiddos learned When you look the other way as than just on the weekends, or baths all summer that structure does not your kiddo eats a second dessert, every day instead of every other. inhibit fun. it means that bedtime will end up Whatever the change, you talk My suggestion is to put option being at 11:30 pm, instead of the about it and do it with intention. three into action. Select family rules regular 8:30 pm. The road back in September will be that help your small ones thrive and You will see that bad behavior bumpy. but not grueling. keep them in place all year round. starts to happen more often. Also, Make small adjustments as seasons while you can pretend that your Rules change only change, because dramatic changes child understands the shift in rules during vacation are confusing. Keep your children’s during the summer, it’s not the case. You keep all your regular rules mind stimulated throughout the It will take an intense amount of and expectations in place, especially summer as their bodies are in mo- work and be a grueling process to when it comes to routines around tion. transition your kiddo to school-time treats and bedtime. This signals to Do what is in your kids’ best in- rules if you let everything go during your child that the rules are in his terests and help them flourish year the summer. best interest. Also, you maintain round! some daily reading and homework For a special gift especially for Make a set of time, so that your small ones keep New York Parenting readers please summer rules learning all summer. Doing so helps visit: https://drmarcie.leadpages.co/ You acknowledge that the sum- them see learning as part of life, not quick-video-for-ny-parenting/ mer has more space for flexibility, something that only exists during Dr. Marcie Beigel is a behavioral but you will create structure that school. therapist based in Brooklyn. She has inhibits problem behavior. You’ll talk When you are on vacation to- worked with thousands of families for with your kids about the shift in ex- gether, you relax the rules a bit and more than 15 years and has condensed pectations when they are on holiday let your children know exactly what her observations into her practice and and that there are adjustments you you are doing. This plan ensures programs. For more on her, visit www. are making. Maybe you decide to that the transition back to school BehaviorAndBeyond.net.

16 brooklyn Family • August 2016 Advice

August 2016 BROOKLYN FREE I wanted the Don’t take a summer Family best lung cancer Where Every Child Matters break from parenting It’s still specialists. ummer is a time when everyone wants a break. We work summer! I found them right S hard all year and we deserve Plan it all with our calendar it! When it gets warm and the days Behavior are long, we all expect time at the Preparing for beach, lighter schedules, and more Kindergarten here in Brooklyn. & Beyond time with friends. Dr. Marcie Beigel After working hard to keep your Teaching your When I was diagnosed with lung cancer, I was small beings in line all year, you children about worried about my family. And I wondered, would may also want a parenting vacation. mindful eating This means less structure at home I ever teach again? and more flexibility with the rules, for example, you’ll say “yes” more A fun social I turned to the nationally renowned lung cancer doctors often to ice cream and “no” to daily media detox at Maimonides. Using advanced surgical procedures, clean up. they performed biopsies and removed my cancer. While it may seem like the right Find us online at www.NYParenting.com choice at the moment, the reality is They also reduced the need for blood transfusions, that you’ll have to work harder in the improving safety and giving me a speedier recovery. longer run. Consider that carefully Now, I plan on teaching for years to come. when you decide to have a summer vacation from parenting. Lung cancer treatment and surgery at Maimonides. Here are your options, warts and all: If you like Our patient outcomes are among the best in the nation.

Take the summer off and pay for it as you go the magazine You don’t want to scream at your kids at the family barbecue, but I assure you that’s what will happen if you let go of all structure. have dessert every other day rather is seamless. Your kiddos learned you’ll love When you look the other way as than just on the weekends, or baths all summer that structure does not your kiddo eats a second dessert, every day instead of every other. inhibit fun. it means that bedtime will end up Whatever the change, you talk My suggestion is to put option the site. being at 11:30 pm, instead of the about it and do it with intention. three into action. Select family rules regular 8:30 pm. The road back in September will be that help your small ones thrive and (718)635-5555 ■ whymmc.org You will see that bad behavior bumpy. but not grueling. keep them in place all year round. starts to happen more often. Also, Make small adjustments as seasons while you can pretend that your Rules change only change, because dramatic changes child understands the shift in rules during vacation are confusing. Keep your children’s during the summer, it’s not the case. You keep all your regular rules mind stimulated throughout the Check us out! It will take an intense amount of and expectations in place, especially summer as their bodies are in mo- work and be a grueling process to when it comes to routines around tion. transition your kiddo to school-time treats and bedtime. This signals to Do what is in your kids’ best in- rules if you let everything go during your child that the rules are in his terests and help them flourish year NYParenting.com the summer. best interest. Also, you maintain round! some daily reading and homework For a special gift especially for Make a set of time, so that your small ones keep New York Parenting readers please summer rules learning all summer. Doing so helps visit: https://drmarcie.leadpages.co/ You acknowledge that the sum- them see learning as part of life, not quick-video-for-ny-parenting/ mer has more space for flexibility, something that only exists during Dr. Marcie Beigel is a behavioral Where every family matters and but you will create structure that school. therapist based in Brooklyn. She has inhibits problem behavior. You’ll talk When you are on vacation to- worked with thousands of families for where New York parents find help, with your kids about the shift in ex- gether, you relax the rules a bit and more than 15 years and has condensed pectations when they are on holiday let your children know exactly what her observations into her practice and info and support. and that there are adjustments you you are doing. This plan ensures programs. For more on her, visit www. are making. Maybe you decide to that the transition back to school BehaviorAndBeyond.net.

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 17 HealtH A healthy start to the new school year

Summer is flying by and school starts just after Labor Day. We want to make sure that our children’s tran- Family HealtH sition from the pool to the classroom Dr. PramoD Narula, mD is as smooth and healthy as possible. Chairman of Pediatrics Do you have any recommended to-dos New York methodist Hospital for August?

he beginning of school is an important time for chil- T dren, and there are plenty of steps you can (and should) take to help them get off to a healthy start. Whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or the last year of high school, a few simple back-to-school prepara- tions can help make the beginning of a new academic year smoother for your children. First, it is important to be caught up on immunization shots. New York City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene requires children to be current on their recommended immunizations before they can attend school. These requirements apply to public, private, and that you communicate any special plain yogurt with granola as a top- parochial school students alike, so medication needs to the school. ping. even if you are certain your child is If your children need to take pre- A child’s emotional needs are up-to-date on his shots, it is advis- scription or non-prescription medi- also important. Starting a new able to make sure that the school cations during the school day, your grade or a new school can be anx- has the updated immunization re- healthcare provider may need to iety-inducing at any age. Children cord on file. complete a form that notifies the may be nervous about finding their Some of the necessary immu- school and provides any requisite classroom, making new friends, or nization shots include the hepati- instructions. completing college applications in tis B vaccine; the pneumococcal Ensuring a healthy lifestyle for the months ahead. The most im- conjugate vaccine (which prevents your child is important outside the portant thing you can do as a par- pneumonia and meningitis), the doctor’s office as well, especially ent is to listen to their concerns diphtheria, tetanus, and pertus- when it comes to nutrition. It’s and help them find solutions. For sis vaccine; the polio vaccine; and good to start reinforcing the habit instance, extracurricular activities the measles, mumps, and rubella of healthy eating before the school such as drama, dance, or sports vaccine. Children entering middle year begins. Studies have shown teams encourage children to make school should receive a second that children who eat breakfast are new friends, helping them to avoid diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis more attentive in class, earn higher the end-of-summer blues and real- vaccine; and the measles, mumps, grades, and have fewer behavioral ize that the school year can be as and rubella vaccine. More informa- problems. much fun and exciting as summer tion about vaccinations required If your children are running vacation. for students by grade is available short on time in the mornings, For more information about mak- on the website of the Department you can prepare simple, nutri- ing the transition back to the class- of Health and Mental Hygiene. tious breakfasts that they can eat room easier for your children, as The end of the summer is a while on their way to school. Some well as any health requirements at great time to schedule your chil- easy ideas include sliced fruit with your children’s individual schools, dren’s physical examinations, den- whole-wheat bagels and cream contact the schools’ nurses or guid- tal exams, and, if necessary, al- cheese, multigrain toast with pea- ance counselors, or your children’s lergy checkups. It is also important nut butter or shredded cheese, and healthcare providers.

18 brooklyn Family • August 2016 HealtH 25 Years of Teaching & Learning 45 minutes of pure 421 Fifth Avenue, Park Slope, Brooklyn | 718.832.0018 fun with your family! A healthy start to Fall Classes Start Sing, dance, and jam at a Music Together SEPTEMBER 13 class and see what parents around the world have been raving about for decades. the new school year DANCE, MOVEMENT, THEATER & TUMBLING CLASSES for children Find a class near you Summer is flying by and school ages 12 months to 18 years at a in Manhattan or Brooklyn: starts just after Labor Day. We want nationally acclaimed youth arts MusicTogether.com/NYC to make sure that our children’s tran- education center. Family HealtH sition from the pool to the classroom Dr. PramoD Narula, mD is as smooth and healthy as possible. Register before August 19, use Chairman of Pediatrics Do you have any recommended to-dos New York methodist Hospital for August? coupon code EARLYBIRD5 when you register for Fall Classes and receive he beginning of school is a 5% discount. an important time for children, and there are plenty of T Illustration by Jacobo Emiliano, 12th grade, Exploring The Arts intern. Financial Aid Available. steps you can (and should) take to help them get off to a healthy start. Whether it’s the first day of kinder- Join us on Saturday, September 10 Download garten or the last year of high school, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm to tour the facilities, Hello Everybody today! a few simple back-to-school prepara- tions can help make the beginning of meet faculty & register for classes. a new academic year smoother for your children. For more information, visit First, it is important to be caught up on immunization shots. New York City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene requires children to be current on their recommended immunizations before they can attend school. These requirements apply to public, private, and that you communicate any special plain yogurt with granola as a top- parochial school students alike, so medication needs to the school. ping. even if you are certain your child is If your children need to take pre- A child’s emotional needs are up-to-date on his shots, it is advis- scription or non-prescription medi- also important. Starting a new able to make sure that the school cations during the school day, your grade or a new school can be anx- has the updated immunization re- healthcare provider may need to iety-inducing at any age. Children cord on file. complete a form that notifies the may be nervous about finding their Some of the necessary immu- school and provides any requisite classroom, making new friends, or nization shots include the hepati- instructions. completing college applications in tis B vaccine; the pneumococcal Ensuring a healthy lifestyle for the months ahead. The most im- conjugate vaccine (which prevents your child is important outside the portant thing you can do as a par- pneumonia and meningitis), the doctor’s office as well, especially ent is to listen to their concerns diphtheria, tetanus, and pertus- when it comes to nutrition. It’s and help them find solutions. For sis vaccine; the polio vaccine; and good to start reinforcing the habit instance, extracurricular activities the measles, mumps, and rubella of healthy eating before the school such as drama, dance, or sports vaccine. Children entering middle year begins. Studies have shown teams encourage children to make school should receive a second that children who eat breakfast are new friends, helping them to avoid diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis more attentive in class, earn higher the end-of-summer blues and real- vaccine; and the measles, mumps, grades, and have fewer behavioral ize that the school year can be as and rubella vaccine. More informa- problems. much fun and exciting as summer tion about vaccinations required If your children are running vacation. for students by grade is available short on time in the mornings, For more information about mak- on the website of the Department you can prepare simple, nutri- ing the transition back to the class- of Health and Mental Hygiene. tious breakfasts that they can eat room easier for your children, as The end of the summer is a while on their way to school. Some well as any health requirements at great time to schedule your chil- easy ideas include sliced fruit with your children’s individual schools, dren’s physical examinations, den- whole-wheat bagels and cream contact the schools’ nurses or guid- tal exams, and, if necessary, al- cheese, multigrain toast with pea- ance counselors, or your children’s lergy checkups. It is also important nut butter or shredded cheese, and healthcare providers.

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 19 Education Choices Directory WINDMILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL ABC Infant & Toddler Our students thrive in an environment Accredited Preschool, Elementary, JHS & Academic Summer Camp Center & ABC Child Center that supports individual learning styles A PEACEFUL PLACE TO LEARN SINCE 1941 109 Nassau Avenue, Greenpoint and the freedom to learn at their own Proudly Celebrating 75 Years of Quality Education 718-389-9004 pace, and each child is nourished to http://www.abcchildcenter.com encourage compassion, respect, and Windmill’s environment encourages children to [email protected] independence of thought. • Learn Naturally At Their Own Pace Our goal is to provide safe, age- Accredited by NYSAIS and the • Find And Develop Their Own Interests, And appropriate, and stimulating programs American Montessori Society and a • Get The Individual Attention Needed To Thrive Open for children from ages 3 months to member of the National Association of 5 years, while fulfilling their need to Independent Schools. CURRICULUM ADVANTAGES HOuses laugh, learn, play, make new friends, Brooklyn Pre-School of Montessori Method, French, Computer Skills, Thurs., August 4 and discover new things. We provide child care for Infants & Toddlers, Science Physical Education, Yoga, Music, Art Wed., August 31 ages 3-24 months and Preschool for 11 Wyckoff Street, PLUS MORE Tues., September 13 children ages 2-5 years. Full Day, Half 347-429-9244 – Boerum Hill Day Programs & Drop-off Care are 65 Park Place, Small Class Size, Dedicated Staff, Wed., September 21 available. Open year-round, Monday- 718-622-1203 - Park Slope Outdoor Recreation, A/C Classrooms, Friday, 8am-6pm with rolling admis- www.brooklynpreschoolofscience. 9:00-10:30am com Curriculum-based Trips, sion. For more information or to schedule a tour, email info@abcchildcenter. Accepting: Two’s, Three’s and Four’s After School Program (3:40–5:45pm) com. Carmelo the Science Fellow has been Happy Learners and Happy Campers teaching children in Brooklyn for the AltSchool Brooklyn over 17 years. During this time, he has 718-375-7973 H 718-375-4277 Heights educated thousands of children and 212 Hicks Street he has come to realize the importance e-mail: [email protected] AltSchool East Village and effectiveness of introducing a sci- website: www.windmontsch.org 1 Avenue B, NYC ence based curriculum to his students. Windmill is non-sectarian. Licensed by The NYC Department of Health AltSchool Union Square Young children starting preschool bring Affiliated with The American Montessori Society 90 5th Avenue, NYC a sense of wonder and curiosity about th [email protected], the world. Whether they are handling 1317 Avenue T @ East 14 Street • Brooklyn, NY 11229 http://www.altschool.com gerbils, flying kites, melting ice cubes, We have assembled a team of inspiring or excavating for fossils, children are educators who create a personalized engaged in discovering out how the Grand St. Settlement’s education for every student. Our edu- world works. The Brooklyn Preschool cators engage students by involving of Science will brings this curiosity and them in their own learning, helping wonder to life, and uses it to provide a Early Childhood children develop a sense of responsi- foundation for meaningful math, lan- bility for their education. A personal- guage, and literacy development. ized approach to learning develops Care and Education each child’s knowledge, agility, and French For Little Ones confidence to navigate the future. Petite École We are accepting applications for the 33 Nassau Ave - Greenpoint 2017-2018 school year for the Lower 347-263-6404 Schools in Brooklyn Heights and the http://www.frenchforlittleones.com East Village, and the Middle School A French immersion preschool for chil- in Union Square, as well as limited dren 2.5 to 6 years old near McCarren transfer applications for the 2016-2017 Park. Founded in 2008, our philosophy school year in Brooklyn Heights and is to provide students with an early the East Village. Please contact us at exposure to the French language in a FREE HIGH-QUALITY, FULL-DAY PROGRAMS [email protected] for more fun, safe and engaging environment. information or sign up for an event at The program offers part time and full Center-Based and Family Child Care www.altschool.com. time options as well as weekly enrich- for Children from Birth to Age 3 Brooklyn Heights ment classes beginning Fall, 2016. All children and families will receive: Montessori School In our 2’s 3’s and 4’s program chil- Nutritious meals 185 Court St dren’s daily activities are focused on Developmental screenings and special needs services 718-858-5100 developing memory and creativity, Child and parent health and well-being resources and services from http://www.bhmsny.org reasoning and imagination, diligence licensed teachers and health care providers Students ages 2-14 learn in three-year and autonomy, and fostering the spirit Diapers, wipes and formula mixed age groups developing collabo- of initiative. Intellectual development is stimulated with observation, experi- Infant-Toddler curricula and education ration and leadership skills, compassion, and mastery of the academic mentation, and active exploration. ENROLL NOW subjects. We offer a structured and clearly We have openings at multiple locations in Bushwick and BHMS engages students in a challeng- defined program oriented toward the Bedford-Stuyvesant zip codes: 11221 11233 11206 11237 ing and meaningful curriculum that acquisition of core knowledge. Children Call 347.535.5571 or email [email protected] inspires independence, confidence, benefit from coaching that helps them curiosity, leadership and collabora- understand why reading, math and GRANDSETTLEMENT.ORG tion. We offer a global curriculum that science knowledge is useful to them. We encourage families receiving includes language arts, social sciences, We guide them through learning tasks, HRA vouchers to apply. mathematics, science, Spanish, technol- finding information, and seeking mul- ogy, athletics, and the arts. Continued on page 22 20 brooklyn Family • August 2016 Special Advertising Section TWOS / PRESCHOOL / ELEMENTARY / MIDDLE SCHOOL Our curriculum, built upon the Montessori Method, inspires independence, conﬁdence, curiosity, leadership and collaboration in our students.

PREPARING STUDENTS WITH THE CRITICAL THINKING & PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS ESSENTIAL FOR SUCCESS IN OUR RAPIDLY CHANGING WORLD. CALL OUR ADMISSIONS OFFICE TO SCHEDULE A TOUR AT 718-858-5100 AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM & SUMMER CAMP OPTIONS AVAILABLE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Play-based. Progressive. Serving families and children since 1999. VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT BHMSNY.ORG There are still slots in our full-day 2s program. Tours are available for applying families! Applications for the 2016-2017 school year are available on our website 185 COURT STREET Brooklyn Heights BROOKLYN, NY 11201 Montessori School has an 718-858-5100 institutional commitment The Williamsburg Neighborhood Nursery School bhmsny.org to the principles of diversity. Ages 2–4 Accredited by NYSAIS & AMS. 54 South Second Street, Brooklyn, NY 11249 • wnns.org (718) 782-4181 • [email protected]

Private Pre-Kindergarten to 8th Grade school Schools in Brooklyn and Manhattan New Union Square Middle School Campus Opening Fall 2017

AltSchool has assembled a team of inspiring educators who create a personalized education for every student.

9GFGNKXGTEWTTKEWNWOKPCYC[VJCVTGƔGEVUJQYGCEJEJKNF learns best. Our personalized approach to learning develops Personalized Education CEJKNFũUMPQYNGFIGCIKNKV[CPFEQPƓFGPEGVQPCXKICVG the future.

for the 21st Century We invite you to join our dynamic community in Brooklyn Heights, the East Village, and now Union Square.

Attend an Upcoming Event AltSchool Brooklyn Heights | AltSchool East Village | AltSchool Union Square www.altschool.com | [email protected]

Special Advertising Section August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 21 Don’t Let Your Child Fall Behind Education Choices You Have A Pal Directory

To Give Your Child Continued from page 20 452 Pennsylvania Avenue, tiple perspectives. PAL Western Queens, For more details visit frenchforlittle- 10-26 41st Avenue; PAL Woodside Early Learning Center, A Headstart ones.com 50-37 Broadway Preschool Program & Universal Pre-K Maple Street School 718-342-4725 Ages 2-5 21 Lincoln Rd - Prospect Lefferts http://www.palnyc.org Gardens Offering full day sessions. Some sites • Full Day 8am-6pm • Educational Trips 718-282-3496 have Universal Pre-K programs as well http://www.maplestreetschool.org, as inclusion classes. Hot meals are pro- • Certified Teachers • Social Service Staff [email protected] vided. PAL Headstart is a leader in early • Healthy Meals & • Safe Indoor/ A preschool that inspires children literacy; children learn all subject areas Snacks Outdoor Facilities through play and discovery, values a in a nurturing environment. PAL not diverse community, and relies on the only educates children, but provides • Services For • Parent Committees/ active participation of cooperative- a wide array of parent workshops. Special Needs Workshops member families and teachers to thrive. Special programs in the arts and sci- Children construct their knowledge ences include field trips. All programs about the world through interaction are free. Contact Asneth Council, PAL A&M Schwartz PAL La Puerta Albierta PAL Carey Gardens with the people and materials in it. We Director. 452 Pennsylvania Ave. 2864 W. 21st Street 2964 W. 23rd Street are dedicated to stimulating the innate Brooklyn, NY 11207 Brooklyn, NY 11224 Brooklyn, NY 11224 curiosity of each child and supporting Stepping Stones Nursery 718-342-4141 718 -373-1100 718-372-4044 emotional growth and expression. We School – Bay Ridge offer programs in art, music and dance 245 86th Street PAL Woodside PAL World Of Creative PAL Western Queens to help children develop their lan- 718-630-1000 Early Learning Center Experience Nursery guage, intuition, concentration, reflec- 9321 Ridge Blvd 50-37 Broadway 280 Livonia Avenue 10-26 41st Avenue tion, reasoning and decision-making 718-630-1001 Woodside, NY 11377 Brooklyn, NY 11212 L.I.C., NY 11101 skills. Academic skills are presented http://www.steppingstones86.com 718-278-3616 718-345-5219 718-784-2092 when children are ready and are usu- Founded in 2002 by two NYC Public ally incorporated into ongoing studies School teachers, our high quality early or daily rituals and routines. We are childhood facilities service preschool- Please Call For InFo www.palnyc.org excited to announce the September ers ages 2-5, with 2 locations. Both opening of our 2nd location of Maple locations are a community that we Street school at 626 Flatbush Avenue, like to call “Family” all of the students Providing Quality Childcare Since 1993 and are currently accepting applications are loved and cared for by their dedi- for open spots for the 2016-17 school cated nurturing teachers. All teachers year. are highly qualified in early childhood ABC Infant & education and meet the requirements Midwood Montessori of the NYC Dept. of Health & Mental Toddler Center 2825 Bedford Ave., at Glenwood Rd. Hygiene. 718-253-3242 Classes for two, three and four year www.midwoodmontessori.com Providing olds are offered with a choice of full- We are situated in a charming Tudor or half-day programs. Open 7 a.m. to Child Care for “Children’s House.” The school pro- 6:30 p.m. An After-school Program is vides a rich curriculum tailored to each available for Pre-K-5th grade with free Infants & Toddlers, child’s pace. Children served are ages pick-up service from PS 185 and DGK 2.9 to 6 in pre-school and kinder- Holy Cross. ages 3-24 months garten. Special attention is given to encouraging socialization, while the Unity Preparatory Charter Full Day, Half Day Programs & Drop-off Care Available academics are taught on a one-on-one School of Brooklyn basis by a dedicated and nurturing 432 Monroe St - Bedford-Stuyvesant staff using the Montessori hands-on 718-455-5046 ABC Child Center methods. The school offers full time art http://www.unityprep.org and music teachers, three outdoor play In Bedford Stuyvesant since 2013, our Child Care areas, an indoor gym, manipulatives, mission is to empower students as cultural studies, practical life and sen- scholars and citizens so they may lead and Preschool sorial materials, language arts, math, fulfilling academic, personal, and pro- science, and geography. AM, PM and fessional lives. In 2016-17, we will serve for Children full day sessions, summer camp, early over 400 students in grades 6-9. Over ages 2-5 years drop off, and transportation service are the next four years, we will continue available. to grow until we reach full size with Open year-round, Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm Police Athletic League, approximately 700 students in grades Inc. Headstart/ 6-12. In the spring of 2020, we will with rolling admission proudly graduate our founding class! Collaboration Programs For more information or to schedule a tour, Key features include: A College Prep Locations include: email [email protected] Course of Study, an enthusiastic fac- PAL W.O.C.E. 280 Livonia Avenue; ulty of expert educators, an extended 109 Nassau Avenue, Greenpoint PAL Carey Gardens, day, week, and year, a positive school 2964 W 23rd St. culture and family involvement. 718-389-9004 • www.abcchildcenter.com PAL La Puerta Abierta, Differentiated academic support is [email protected] 3001 West 37th St. achieved through smaller classes, small PAL Schwartz, Continued on page 24 22 brooklyn Family • August 2016 Special Advertising Section We’retĞ͛ƌƌĞĞůĞĂƌŶŝŶŐƐ learningůĞĂƌŶŝŶŐ step-by-stepƐƚĞƉƚĞƉͲďǇͲƐƚĞƉĂƚ͘͘͘ďǇ ƐƚĞƉ Ăƚ͘͘͘at...

^ĐŚŽŽůWƌŽŐƌĂŵƐ ͻdǁŽzĞĂƌKůĚůĂƐƐĞƐ ͻdŚƌĞĞzĞĂƌKůĚůĂƐƐĞƐ ͻ&ŽƵƌzĞĂƌKůĚůĂƐƐĞƐ ŌĞƌ^ĐŚŽŽůWƌŽŐƌĂŵƐ <ŝŶĚĞƌŐĂƌƚĞŶƚŚƌŽƵŐŚϱƚŚŐƌĂĚĞ We are accepting &ƵůůĂŶĚ,ĂůĨĂǇ 6th grade and 9th grade WƌŽŐƌĂŵƐǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ^ĐŚŽŽů^ĞƐƐŝŽŶ͗ &KZ^hDDZΘ&>> ^ĞƉƚĞŵďĞƌʹ:ƵŶĞ ϮϬϭϲEZK>>DEd applications for the ^ƵŵŵĞƌ^ĞƐƐŝŽŶ͗ :ƵůǇʹƵŐƵƐƚ 2016-2017 school year. PleaseKWE,Kh^ call ^ dƵĞƐĚĂǇ͕:ĂŶƵĂƌǇϭϵƚŚϱ͗ϯϬƉŵͲϳ͗ϯϬƉŵ W>^s/^/d to schedule ƐƚĞƉƉŝŶŐƐƚŽŶĞƐϴϲ͘ĐŽŵ anŚŝůĚ appointmentƌĞŶďŽƌŶϮϬϭϯ dƵĞƐĚĂǇ͕:ĂŶƵĂƌǇϮϲƚŚϱ͗ϯϬƉŵͲϳ͗ϯϬƉŵ &KZDKZ toŚŝůĚ registerƌĞŶďŽƌŶϮϬϭϮ your child /E&KZDd/KE fordƵĞƐĚĂ SummerǇ͕&ĞďƌƵĂƌǇϮŶĚϱ͗ϯϬƉŵͲϳ͗ϯϬƉ or ŵ FallŚŝůĚ ƌĞenrollment!ŶďŽƌŶϮϬϭϰ Nursery School 245 86th street • brooklyn, ny 11209 • p.718-630-1000 • f.718-630-1446 The Next Step 9321 ridge boulevard • brooklyn, ny 11209 • p.718-630-1001

2nd Location Opening in September at 626 Flatbush Ave. Availability for Fall 2016

Visit www.unityprep.org to learn more about our college preparatory curriculum, extensive clubs/sports program, academic supports, and positive school culture. At Maple Street School, families and teachers together provide a rich, nurturing, creative, ﬁ rst school experience 432 Monroe Street, and foster a lifelong love of learning for children. Third Floor www.maplestreetschool.org Brooklyn, NY 11221 Phone (718) 455-5046 A parent cooperative preschool in the Prospect Lefferts Gardens neighborhood in Brooklyn Fax (718) 455-5049 718-282-4345 • [email protected]

Special Advertising Section August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 23 Education Choices Rivendell School provides a warm, creative environment where children Directory develop independence, respect for each other, and a lifelong love of learning. Continued from page 22 freedom that encourages the children’s group interventions & individualized spontaneous curiosity and introduces tutoring. Enrichment Courses, Athletics them to the joys of learning. and Elective Clubs are optional. Windmill Montessori The Williamsburg School Neighborhood Nursery 1317 Avenue T School Sheepshead Bay 54 South 2nd Street 718-375-7973 or 718-375-4277 Williamsburg www.windmillmontessorischool.org 718-782-4181 Founded in 1941, WMS proudly cel- www.wnns.org [email protected] ebrates more than 75 years of serving Our school was founded on the belief our community as a peaceful place that a good early childhood program to learn, with an environment that should provide children and their encourages your child to progress at families with a bridge between the his/her own pace. The family-oriented worlds of home and school. The nurs- Montessori method nurtures students ery school environment must be both in grades Pre-k to 8th, emotionally and structured and nurturing; it must com- academically, promoting a sense of A Montessori inclusion school bine the safety and comfort of home purpose, a love of learning and civility. with the social and intellectual stimula- Small classes meet the students’ indi- tion of school. WNNS’s curriculum is vidual needs. Curriculum-based trips, serving children two to six years old firmly based in the ideals of Progressive from puppet shows to museums, culmi- education. As such the program is nate in JHS overnights “Learning About for more than thirty years. play-based, child centered, and focused History By Living It,” with trips to on social-emotional growth. WNNS Boston, Gettysburg and Williamsburg, 277 3rd Avenue provides a school experience that is VA; and “Meeting Our Lawmakers” in (bet. Carroll & President Streets) carefully structured, yet also allows the Albany and Washington, D.C. French, children to explore the school world at yoga, phys. ed., music, art, and com- their own pace and in their own way. puter skills enliven the school day. We 718-499-5667 It is this combination of structure and also offer an After School program.

od Mont wo es d so i r French For Little Ones M i

French Immersion Preschool and After School Program for children 2 to 6 years old

33 Nassau Avenue • Brooklyn, New York 11222 frenchforlittleones.com • 347-263-6404 Pre-School & Kindergarten Summer Program To place an ad in our line Transportation Available of Family Publications, 2825 Bedford Avenue • 253-3242 at Glenwood Road please call 718-260-4554 www.midwoodmontesssori.com

24 brooklyn Family • August 2016 Special Advertising Section HAPPINESS Is A Healthy Mouth Help Your Child Start The School Year With A Healthy Smile. Healthy Smile... Healthy Children

Dentistry For Children Your Child’s Teeth Are Too Precious To Waste A Proper Diet, Good Oral Hygiene And A Bi-Annual Check-Up From Age 1 CanSave Teeth And Money Call Reneida E. Reyes, D.D.S., M.P.H. Today at her ofﬁ ce for your son or daughter’s appointments One Hanson Place - Suite 706 Brooklyn, NY 11243 (718) 230-0380 Fax (718) 230-0358

The Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts 234 Roosevelt Hall 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11210 Over 35 years of music, theater, & dance instruction for children from age 3, teens & adults 2016-2017 School Year at the Prep Center MUSIC • Beginner to advanced instrument and voice lessons, group classes • Suzuki programs for teaching violin, cello, & flute to child as young as 3 years old DANCE • Itty Bitty Ballet – first ballet class for age 3 and up • Ballet classes offering beginner to advanced classes • Beginner to advanced tap and hip hop • Dance Combo Classes – ballet, jazz and tap from age 3 THEATER • Creative Dramatics for 4-6 years old • Theater Workshops for Children and Teens • Musical Theater Workshop – beginner to advanced classes Audition prep for music, theater & dance auditions for performing arts schools or colleges

Registration is now open for the 2016-2017 school year. Classes begin September 17th. Please call 718-951- 4111 for further information on programs and classes, registration consultation, Suzuki family information sessions, or visit our website at www.bcprepcenter.org for complete course listings.

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 25 HEALTH The power of water ater is essential for life. trition, being even mildly dehydrated lute electrolytes to a damaging level, Whether inside or outside (defined as one to two percent below but this is rare. You would need to W of the body, water heals. optimal levels) can affect mood, cog- consume gallons at a time.) We all know it and most of us strive nitive function, and ability to think. A good sign that you are drinking to drink more, but did you know Prevention: By simply upping enough is if your urine is clear-col- about all of the therapeutic and re- your water intake, you may able to ored. The darker the urine, the more storative things that water can do stave off migraines, headaches, bloat- the need for hydration. In children, for a body? ing, and constipation. So instead of you can ward off a urinary infection HEALTHY A year ago, my dog was diagnosed reaching for over-the-counter relief by upping their water consumption with acute pancreatitis. She could when these ailments pop up, drink if you notice dark urine. Prolonged LIVING not move, would not eat, and when plenty of water to prevent them be- dark urine may be a sign that your DANIELLE SULLIVAN we took her to the emergency vet, fore they occur. kidneys are not getting enough water they were straight with us: many Detoxify: Water is the best way to to properly filter out toxins. dogs with her levels of pancreatitis flush toxins out of your body. Even if Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, do not survive. They told us they you simply consume too much sugar has worked as a writer and editor in the would start an intravenous drip im- or salt, by drinking water, you will parenting world for more than 10 years. mediately, and we should pray. help bring your body to a healthy Sullivan also writes about pets and par- After two days, we visited her. equilibrium. Water also helps relieve enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find Sul- Still attached to her tube, she was the bloating from premenstrual syn- livan on her blogs, Just Write Mom and spunky, renewed, and thriving, even drome. Some Puppy To Love. while still quite ill. She was given The Institute of Medicine advises pain meds but no additional specific that an adequate water intake for men medication other than fluids. This is roughly 13 cups a day, while was the first time I was awed by the for women is about nine power of water. cups daily. Keep in mind Around the same time, my daugh- that is for a typical day. ter was diagnosed with postural Factors such as exercise, orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, health conditions, weather, which affects every system of the pregnancy, and breastfeed- body. One of the most important ing will require you to in- treatments is to drink large amounts crease your daily amount. of water to keep the blood volume (It is possible to drink too up. When the body is not super hy- much water, which can di- drated, patients suffer blood pres- sure issues, heart racing, and are likely to pass out and suffer a host of other symptoms. It’s an extreme example, but, on a lower level, we all exhibit symptoms if not properly hydrated. Drinking water, especially in the dog days of summer, is essential for children, teens, and adults. There is a reason why people grab some cold water for any person who isn’t feeling well. Water can prevent and cure many ailments: Cellular level: Keeping hydrated is vital, because nearly every cell in the body needs water to function properly. Being dehydrated causes the heart to pump harder and places a stress on every organ in your body. Hunger: Experts say that if you have already eaten something, but find yourself feeling hungry, nine out of 10 times you are mildly dehydrated. Mental clarity: According to a study published in the Journal of Nu-

26 brooklyn Family • August 2016 HEALTH AUTISM SERVICES Celebrating Our 23 rd Year Your insurance pays, we provide. DIRECT BEHAVIORAL SERVICES The power of water provides customized ABA services and social groups AgesAges (funded by your health insurance) to children and ater is essential for life. trition, being even mildly dehydrated lute electrolytes to a damaging level, 22 –– AdultAdult adults with autism in Brooklyn, NYC areas & NJ. No waiting list. Whether inside or outside (defined as one to two percent below but this is rare. You would need to Take We work on social skills, language, play skills, self-help skills and of the body, water heals. optimal levels) can affect mood, cog- consume gallons at a time.) 2 classes, academic skills at home, school and community. Supervised by a W • Ballet Board Certiﬁ ed Behavior Analyst (BCBA). We all know it and most of us strive nitive function, and ability to think. A good sign that you are drinking get the 3rdrd get the 3 @ to drink more, but did you know Prevention: By simply upping enough is if your urine is clear-col- • Tap Call 347-559-6131 or email directbehaviorservices gmail.com for www.directbehavioralservices.com about all of the therapeutic and re- your water intake, you may able to ored. The darker the urine, the more 11 /2 price! • Jazz storative things that water can do stave off migraines, headaches, bloat- the need for hydration. In children, Private pay also accepted. HEALTHY for a body? ing, and constipation. So instead of you can ward off a urinary infection • Boys Classes A year ago, my dog was diagnosed reaching for over-the-counter relief by upping their water consumption • Hip Hop with acute pancreatitis. She could when these ailments pop up, drink if you notice dark urine. Prolonged LIVING not move, would not eat, and when plenty of water to prevent them be- dark urine may be a sign that your • Lyrical DANIELLE SULLIVAN we took her to the emergency vet, fore they occur. kidneys are not getting enough water • Pointe they were straight with us: many Detoxify: Water is the best way to to properly filter out toxins. dogs with her levels of pancreatitis flush toxins out of your body. Even if Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, • Gymnastics do not survive. They told us they you simply consume too much sugar has worked as a writer and editor in the Sibling • Praise Dance would start an intravenous drip im- or salt, by drinking water, you will parenting world for more than 10 years. 3 Great Locations mediately, and we should pray. help bring your body to a healthy Sullivan also writes about pets and par- and • Karate 4626 Flatlands Avenue Multiple After two days, we visited her. equilibrium. Water also helps relieve enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find Sul- (Bet. Schenectady Ave. & E. 46th St.) • Caribbean Still attached to her tube, she was the bloating from premenstrual syn- livan on her blogs, Just Write Mom and 718-692-4809 Class spunky, renewed, and thriving, even drome. Some Puppy To Love. 9409 Avenue L Discounts • African while still quite ill. She was given The Institute of Medicine advises (Bet. E. 94th & 95th Sts.) • Adult Classes pain meds but no additional specific that an adequate water intake for men 718-272-1813 medication other than fluids. This is roughly 13 cups a day, while 9411 Avenue L • Competition Classes 600 DeGraw Street (3rD & 4th aveS) was the first time I was awed by the for women is about nine (Bet. E. 94th & 95th Sts.) • Majorette Class power of water. cups daily. Keep in mind 718-272-1813 New! Around the same time, my daugh- that is for a typical day. ter was diagnosed with postural Factors such as exercise, orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, health conditions, weather, which affects every system of the pregnancy, and breastfeed- body. One of the most important ing will require you to in- treatments is to drink large amounts crease your daily amount. of water to keep the blood volume (It is possible to drink too Where up. When the body is not super hy- much water, which can di- drated, patients suffer blood pres- sure issues, heart racing, and are Happy, Healthy likely to pass out and suffer a host of other symptoms. It’s an extreme example, but, on a lower level, we Smiles Are all exhibit symptoms if not properly hydrated. Drinking water, especially in the dog days of summer, is essential for Second Nature children, teens, and adults. There is a reason why people grab some cold We offer sedation and laughing gas water for any person who isn’t feeling well. Water can prevent and cure many ailments: Cellular level: Keeping hydrated is vital, because nearly every cell in the A Brand New, State-of-the-Art Pediatric Dental Office body needs water to function properly. Being dehydrated causes the Participating With Most Insurances heart to pump harder and places a stress on every organ in your body. Latex-free office Hunger: Experts say that if you have already eaten something, but We understand the importance of creating a strong foundation for oral find yourself feeling hungry, nine out health early on, which is why we focus on making dental care fun for kids! of 10 times you are mildly dehy- When children enjoy their time here, they’re that much more likely to drated. enjoy beautiful, healthy smiles for life!! By appointment only!!!! Call Today! Mental clarity: According to a study published in the Journal of Nu- 718-488-0200718-488-0200 • 150 4th Avenue • www.parkslopekidsdental.com PkSlpKidsDental

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 27 ARE YOU ARE YOU KIDDING? KIDDING?

ONLY ONLY 415? 415? 415 415

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

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

28 brooklyn Family • August 2016 • I don’t need a Fitbit to monitor my water intake. When I can GROUP To get the most feel the cotton in my mouth, I out of my Fitbit, know it’s time to take a drink. PRESCHOOL & YOUNG CHILD • I don’t need a Fitbit to tell me I need to wear it I was restless 35 times last night. MUSIC CLASSES I looked at the clock 14 times all the time, even during the night, feel exhausted in the morning, and can see the when I’m sleeping, dark circles under my eyes, so shackling me like an I’m well aware I had a crappy night’s sleep. I’m-on-house-arrest • I don’t need a device that’s ARE YOU ARE YOU waterproof up to 10 meters, given ankle bracelet. Who my penchant for never going KIDDING? KIDDING? scuba diving. needs that judgment • I don’t need a Fitbit to vibrate every hour to tell me I’ve been all day long? inactive for too long. When I feel my derriere going numb from sitting at the computer too long, I exercise. I mean, I occasionally know it’s time to get moving. Teaching the Fundamentals of walk and do yoga, but only be- And then there’s the whole Music Theory for the Magical Math & Science Connection cause I know I should. And I’ve guilt factor. On days when I think given up trying to master the I’ve been fairly active, I check for ages 18 Months to 7 Years “Dance Off the Inches Hip Hop my Fitbit only to discover that I MUSIC FUNTIME CALL 718-454-3036 ONLY ONLY Party” DVD I bought a few years racked up an unimpressive 415 ago, foolishly thinking I could steps today, and it’s already 3 415 415 do complex choreography “so pm. This sets off a mini-rage, as Our Special simple anyone can do it.” Well, I yell at my wrist monitor, “Why “Musical Crafts” thanks for making me feel like are you silently judging me? Who 415? 415? an idiot, girl-on-the-cover-with- are you to tell me I’m below my Lessons rock-hard-abs. When Fit Blonde goal today?” Girl instructs her hip-hop wan- On top of all this, I’m always teach children nabees to “pop it,” the only thing just a few steps behind what’s Music Theory that pops (and cracks) is my ar- trending. thritic hip. Case in point — “Breaking in a fun, artistic way. And I do try to incorporate Bad” was three seasons old be- Students will learn stage movement into my daily life. I fore I even heard about it. And kick butt in word games, throw I just read a fashion article that performance. Students a fit when my teen mouths off to pantyhose are coming back in, will perform for one another, me, run daily errands, jump to which made me wonder, when for their teacher in class conclusions, and dance around were they out? So it feels a bit and for their families at home. uncomfortable conversations. premature for me to jump on the This gives the children These activities don’t really burn Fitbit bandwagon just yet. the understanding of listening many calories, but, at least I’m I’m also not what marketing to other performers and grows not totally sedentary. experts would could an “early conﬁ dence in themselves. But the fitness tracker is a adopter.” I don’t upgrade my cell- little too Big Brother for me, with phone every year. I have zero We’ll teach your child my every movement being moni- desire for an Apple Watch. I don’t tored 24-seven. To get the most want a drone. to read music out of my Fitbit, I need to wear it And, after great resistance, I in the same manner all the time, even when I’m sleep- finally forced myself to get on Fitbit to be tied ing, shackling me like an I’m-on- Twitter now that it’s almost 10 they are taught letters, house-arrest ankle bracelet. It years old. I’m always late to the numbers, colors, just dangles on my wrist all day, trend party by choice. A device that tracks all my fitness activity? No thanks! recording every arm swing as I Now, if my husband can find shapes, etc. walk or reach for another glass me a Witbit to monitor my sar- All students are introduced By Lisa a. Beach ing it a top-seller that (supposedly) What kind of monster am I? of wine. Who needs that judg- casm, I’d be all over that. But a fits every lifestyle. And yet, I was ready to be ment all day long? Fitbit? Thanks, but I’m good. to Piano, Guitar, Percussion, apping into the latest trend, That is, every lifestyle but branded with a scarlet letter as I I feel like I should be wowed Lisa Beach is a freelance writer, Violin, Bells, Kazoos my well-intentioned hus- mine. returned my Fitbit to Sports Au- by this “wonder product” chock- blogger, humorist, and recovering ho- and Flutophone. T band recently bought me a I practically hung my head in un- thority (that my husband scored full of features that track not meschool mom who lived to write Fitbit, one of those omnipotent grateful shame as I returned his gift, at a 20 percent discount, no less!). only your exercise, but also your about it. Check out her writer’s web- www.musicfuntime.org • www.joesmusiccenter.org fitness-tracker wristbands that because isn’t it all about the thought I’m probably the only person in the sleep patterns, your water con- site at www.LisaBeachWrites.com and works with your smartphone. The that counts? What does this say world who’s jumping off the Fitbit sumption, your calories, and visit www.TweeniorMoments.com, Fitbit monitors your every move about me if I returned a gift, not be- bandwagon. your heart rate. Beach’s humor blog about mid-life, 114-04 Farmers Blvd., St. Albans, NY 11412 (literally) with a built-in navigation cause it didn’t fit or it is the wrong Why? High-tech features for a low- family, friends, and all the baggage system and loads of features, mak- color, but because I just didn’t like it? For starters, I’m just not into tech girl: that goes with it. Proudly Serving the Community Since 1998

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 29 Coming up Rosie By Tammy Scileppi All of the above still holds true O’Donnell’s today. Tomorrow’s rising stars are parking lifelong appreciation expected to train hard and aim high program gives for the arts with classes in for their personal best and to strive S dance, singing, and acting, for excellence, especially if they’re Rosie’s Theater Kids — created by chosen as Rosie’s Theater Kids, theater-loving actor-comedian Rosie O’Donnell — where the code word is achieve- provides city youngsters with cre- ment — not only in the performing kids a brighter ative opportunities. Its fun, triple- arts, but in school as well. threat approach to learning has The staff and industry profes- future shaped the lives of 60,000 boys and sionals are there to help students girls since the organization’s start develop and hone their creative tal- back in 2003. And now, two child- ents, but the programs take learn- hood friends from Hell’s Kitchen ing a step further, with life-prepping are celebrating the scholarships re- guidance along the way. cently awarded to them by Rosie’s After all, the road to stardom can Theater Kids, which has given them get rocky, and finding your inner Photo by Rosalie O’Connor thousands more reasons to sing and Hamilton or Nicki Minaj doesn’t Rosie O’Donnell (with Broadway star dance for joy. come easy for anyone. Kristin Chenoweth) loves the theater. In a challenging, sometimes cut- The color yellow throat world, a hefty dose of self-es- At one time, funny, big-hearted ing my core, formerly frozen and teem and confidence-boosting makes O’Donnell was considered brash uninhabitable … They got yellow all the difference, and all kids and and controversial. But since she left from me, and I felt yellow giving it teens benefit from knowing that the her talk show, she has been leading to them, and it was all good … So, people around them believe in them a quieter life and doing “ordinary” why am I leaving my show? It took and support their chosen path. things, like raising her children and my yellow. I wanted it back. Without That’s especially true for Rosie’s posting family stuff on her Facebook it, I can’t live. The gray kills me.” Theater Kids, who deal with diffi- page. And her two loves — kids and So, when she dreamt up the cool- cult challenges. Some have grown theater — seem to be keeping the est kids’ theater program in town up in the housing developments or busy mom out of trouble. while sitting at her kitchen table, you have families impacted by crime. Every kid has a dream, and par- can bet she had probably imagined ents like O’Donnell understand that a warm yellow. Sharing Broadway A triple threat if that dream isn’t channeled prop- and the performing arts with local Rosie’s one-of-a-kind programs erly, and if it isn’t nurtured and cel- kids became her calling. Like many focus on academics, nutrition, and ebrated, chances are, it will eventu- of her program’s students, O’Donnell art, and the staff works hard to pro- ally fade to gray. came from humble beginnings and vide an exciting, well-rounded the- So, when she launched Rosie’s knew what it was like to have that ater education. Theater Kids, offering performing- burning-in-your-belly desire to be- Last year, Rosie’s Theater Kids’ arts classes as well as free Broad- come something more. Her mother, ACTE II Program received the Na- way shows to fourth graders at- who died when O’Donnell was 10, tional Arts and Humanities Youth tending PS 51 — located near the introduced her to the theater. And Program Award, the nation’s highest city’s theater district and filled with her beloved former teacher, Pat Mar- honor for out-of-school arts and hu- many students whose families can’t avel, helped her heal and find her manities youth programs. Perform- afford tickets to the shows, the voice, so O’Donnell named the pro- ing to loud applause for First Lady kids’ lives were changed forever. gram’s home on Manhattan’s West Michelle Obama at the White House, O’Donnell realized the irony in the 45th Street the Maravel Arts Center 12 students accepted this honor. situation and said it was, “Like liv- in her memory. In 2014, the program was awarded ing in Hawaii, and never having ac- a $500,000 grant to establish the cess to the beach.” Well-rounded kids rule SAM Scholarship for Scholastic and The comedian’s favorite color is In the old days, to get into show Artistic Merit, an ongoing scholar- sunshine yellow, which she prefers biz you had to know how to carry ship program that provides gradu- to the limelight. In her book, “Celeb- a tune, dance (and tap dance) your ates with full scholarships of gap rity Detox,” she writes, “Fame stole heart out, take elocution lessons, funding (the amount of money that is my yellow. Yellow is the color you and learn how to project your voice owed once scholarships, grants, and get when you’re real and brutally to the audience. But most of all, you parent contributions are accounted honest. Yellow is with my kids … had to have personality and a win- for) to the college of their choice. The bundle of bright yellow warm- ning smile. Whatever is left (generally loan

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

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 31 Senses of wonder By Patrick HemPfing ever-growing feet. (A few days later, When you’re Cherish The I would question whether we needed yes, ears, nose, mouth, hands, MoMenTs that purchase when shoeless Jes- young, there’s and feet. It seems like I was just sie stepped onto our pollen-covered E teaching my toddler names of driveway in her socks and danced her the body parts and all about various nuts, cheeses, and other top- around in the yellow dust as if a light a lot to get her five senses. Oh, to experience pings that decorated the lettuce. Jes- snow had fallen.) the world through the senses of a sie makes full use of her mouth for After paying for the sneakers, we excited about child — the excitement, the passion talking as well as eating, which some- browsed the department store. — about even small things. Jessie is times gives my ears the sense that “Dad, I love this coat. It’s the soft- now a tween, but her enthusiastic they might start bleeding. est coat in the entire world.” reactions to everyday experiences After lunch, we shopped. Jessie Jessie repeated this several times, still tickle me. She cherishes the mo- found a bottle of blue nail polish we both before and after I purchased the ments with all of her body parts. thought was 99 cents, but it rang green jacket for her. The next morn- Jessie and I recently spent the up for 37 cents. I’m not sure when ing, rubbing her hands up and down afternoon together. Our first stop her eyes sparkled more: as she cel- her plush-covered arms, she was still was a restaurant, where I ordered ebrated the fabulous deal, or that thrilled. chili. I tried something different and evening when she showed off her “I love my fuzzy coat. I’m always ordered it in a bread bowl. When the blue fingernails. going to have a fuzzy coat. I’ll wear waitress brought it, Jessie’s eyes got After buying the nail polish, Jessie it in summer and winter and when I so wide you’d have thought I won the noticed her favorite store was having outgrow it, I’ll give it to Momma and lottery. a sale: the 75 percent-off sign in the get another one.” “Dad, you’ll always have to order window was a sight to behold. On the ride home, Jessie gave the this!” “Dad, we need to go there right radio buttons on my truck a workout, Jessie sat across from me behind away!” switching stations to catch songs a huge bowl of salad, chatting hap- “Jessie, we need to buy sneakers, she liked. Her ears and mine don’t pily as she tasted the not lotions and soaps.” always appreciate the same sounds, But she twinkled her pretty eyes, but some of her music has grown and shoe shopping waited. We left an on me. hour later with a full bag of fragrant At the beginning of our afternoon, treats for her nose. before I ate my chili, I texted a photo A few days later, our friend gave of it to Mattie. Jessie’s enthusiasm Jessie three bottles of perfume. was so contagious, I had to share it. Jessie sprayed the first on her When I finished the chili, there wrists and rubbed them to- was a big hole in the bottom of the gether. She spritzed the sec- bread bowl. For some reason, I felt ond on her mom’s wrist. compelled to take an “after photo.” “Dad, I have one more I picked up the bread and held it so to sample.” that Jessie’s face was visible through “I don’t want to wear the hole, then snapped the picture ladies’ perfume.” with my other hand. When I said I said the words — “Smile,” she smiled, but added, “Dad, and meant them — but don’t play with your food.” I’ve taught my muscles must not my girl well. have heard, because I She’s taught me, too — to use all held out my hand, and my senses, especially a sense of won- Jessie sprayed it, then der, to get the most out of every day. pulled it to her nose. Until next month, remember to She then dragged my cherish the moments. hand, towing me behind, If you enjoyed this column, you’ll like for her mom to sniff. Patrick’s first book, “Moments: A Dad The next morning, Jes- Holds On.” The book compiles favorite sie was still excited about stories and new material and is avail- her new perfume. Her mom able for sale on Amazon.com. Mattie sent her back to the Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year-long bathroom to “tone down the professional career in banking, account- scent.” I told Jessie it might be too ing, and auditing before he became a much perfume if the teacher at the father at age 44. He is now a full-time front of the room can smell her from husband, stay-at-home dad, and writer. the back row. Follow him at www.facebook.com/pat- On our shopping trip, we finally ricklhempfing and on Twitter @Patrick- found some sneakers for Jessie’s Hempfing.

32 brooklyn Family • August 2016 August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 33 Philanthropy in 3D A Manhattan By Shnieka L. JohnSon Manhattan teen is learning teen’s passion the 3-D skills she’ll need to A help bring her passion for for changing doing good to the next level. Chloe Sutter, a rising senior at kids’ lives with Convent of the Sacred Heart, spent four days in leadership training and mentorship thanks to the ANNpower 3D printing Vital Voices Leadership Forum, a program that teaches young women from across the U.S. the leadership skills they need to affect global progress, invest in their communities, and begin their journeys as the next generation of leaders. It was her dedication and passion for making a difference, specifically by connecting kids with disabilities to 3D printers, that brought her to ANNpower — a partnership between ANN Inc. (parent company of Ann Taylor, LOFT, and Lou & Grey) and Vital Voices. “My freshman year of high school, my school introduced a 3D-printing program (in partnership with En- abling the Future, an organization that matches kids in need with prosthetic hands), with a specific focus on printing fully functional prosthetic limbs. That year, I assisted in making three hands. Chloe Sutter was part of a national leadership forum for young women. “To see a young boy throw a ball for the first time, shake his father’s hands, and am hoping to expand the now part of thanks to ANNpower,” hand, and give us high-fives was so program to other schools as well. So she said. rewarding,” says Sutter. “However, many schools have 3D printers, but She and the other participants are after that year, the program ended not all know how to use them for the now eligible to receive an ANNpower at my school for logistical reasons, betterment of the community — yet.” Project Grant (up to $2,500) to put and I was so passionate about it, that And thanks to the forum, Sutter their ideas into action. I knew I had to find a way to not only received invaluable support that will ANNpower grants are currently continue it, but also expand it.” help her reach her goals. supporting projects ranging from The teen has big plans for the fu- “The experience was energizing politics to the arts, to the fields of ture of 3D printing. and inspiring. I built strong relation- science, technology, and math. “I want every school with access ships with the other Fellows, all of “I’ll never forget some of the les- to a 3D printer to be able to print whom I learned from. In addition sons I learned from leaders from fully functional prosthetic hands, to gaining lifelong friends, I’ve also ANN Inc. and Vital Voices, as well as which are so much simpler to make gained their insight and support. women leaders from across indus- than anybody realizes. Typical pros- The other fellows and the mentors tries,” Sutter added. “But the best thetics can cost tens of thousands in the ANNpower Vital Voices net- part is that it doesn’t end there. I of dollars, yet 3D-printed prosthet- work challenged me to strengthen know that the ANNpower network, ics have just as much functionality my project idea, and many of them the other Fellows included, will con- and — aside from the cost of the are already looking for ways to help tinue to help me develop my project printer — materials to make pros- me bring it to life. and reach my final goal.” thetic hands cost just $20. “I also heard from and was men- Visit annpower.org for more informa- “For kids who are still growing, it’s tored by incredibly accomplished tion. so important to be able to get new female leaders, including Reshma Shnieka Johnson is an education con- prosthetic limbs as they grow,” she Saujani (founder and CEO, Girls Who sultant and freelance writer. She is based says. “I’m training younger students Code) and Meredith Koop (stylist to in Manhattan where she resides with her in my school (fifth through eighth the First Lady). I feel so supported husband and son. Contact her via her graders) to create 3D-prosthetic by the collaborative community I’m website: www.shniekajohnson.com. 34 brooklyn Family • August 2016 3 fabulous and fun Like us on Shabbat programs! 4UBSUT0DUPCFS 4:00 to 5:00 PM Guitarist and singer 0SBFruchter will have your preschooler singing and dancing. Of course, we’ll welcome Shabbat with challah and grape juice, too!

4UBSUT4FQUFNCFS 9:30 to 11 AM Movement, music, and stories bring Jewish ideas about the world to life or follow us on for toddlers and preschoolers. First three Saturdays every month.

4UBSUT4FQUFNCFS 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM A Shabbat experience for children ages 4 to 6, ending with pizza lunch.

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August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 35 teens Staying close with your kids at college

grew up having a close relationship with my parents. I was very I open with them and always in- A letter cluded them in conversations about my life. Needless to say, moving away from college for college meant that my relation- AglAiA Ho ship with my family changed. With miles between us, my parents and I still manage to keep in touch, but I have been forced to be a lot more independent. Maintaining a healthy relationship with your immediate family is important. No matter how old you are, you need someone to rely on and trust. Your parents, siblings, grand- parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins are a crucial support network. Build- ing that steadfast connection can be difficult for students and family alike. For students, too much paren- to talk to each other. Schedule tal involvement may feel suffocating, regular calls or video chats. Per- while for family members, too much sonally, I talk to my parents at least free rein may be worrisome. The key when I need to speak once a week. is to maintain open communication. with someone who re- What you choose to discuss is up For students, being away from ally knows me, like my parents. to you. When I chat with my family, home means newly found freedom, For parents, worrying about the I tend to tell them a little bit about which is both scary and exciting. not-so-little-ones is natural. Although everything that has been happening On one hand, there is no one telling my parents will never admit it, letting on campus. Occasionally, I have per- you when to clean your room, when go of their only child was not easy. Ide- sonal matters to discuss, like how I to go to sleep, or that you cannot go ally, parents should avoid being over- should prioritize my time or how to out on a Wednesday night. On the bearing, especially when your child handle a conflict with my friends. other hand, the absence of parents first arrives at school. Allow him or Although my parents may rattle off may lead to piles of dirty laundry on her time to adjust to the change and advice, it is still up to me to decide your dorm room floor and wading figure out how to make friends and on a plan of action. through a sea of stinky clothes. choose classes on his or her own. I try to check in on my parents, When you’re away at college, your My college even suggests that par- since they are aging, too. As much parents can no longer micro manage ents abstain from calling the school, as I am envious that they are ex- your life. When I was in high school, which may place additional stress on ploring the city and eating out more my dad used to make sure I was up both parents and their kids. frequently than when I am at home, in time for class. However, in college, Instead, find new ways to subtly it is great to see that they are not suf- I need to set my own alarm and resist check in on your budding scholar. fering from an empty nest. hitting the snooze button a hundred Pay attention to any photos she Relationships must be constantly times. If I wind up being late for class, might send you in text messages or nurtured, if they are meant to last. there is only one person to blame: e-mail. If you are connected with When communication is not as fre- me. your child on social media, keep an quent as in the past, make the mo- Despite this novel independence, eye out for interesting posts, likes, ments you physically spend with it is okay to ask your parents for help or photos. Although what your child your loved ones matter. We can still and advice. Sometimes I call my mom posts on Facebook does not tell the care about each other from distance, to ask questions about cooking a meal whole story, it can often provide and with a little effort, we can con- or whether I can put my sweaters in hints about her overall wellbeing. tinue to show we care. the dryer. I also talk to my parents Nonetheless, for both parents and Aglaia Ho is a rising senior at Wil- whenever I need emotional support. students, there is nothing like actual liams College and a native New Yorker. As awesome as my school’s counsel- verbal communication to truly nur- She also writes for her own blog at www. ing services can be, there are times ture a relationship. Take some time aglaiaho.weebly.com.

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

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August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 39 books No need to ‘Worry’ In “Mama Loved to Worry,” by when Mama worries, Maryann Weidt, mama is really tall she sews “faster than — at least five feet! — and the story, a hound dog after a illustrated by Rachael Balsaitis, is squirrel.” On that day, even taller! she sewed clothes Mama was a first-class, top-rate for all the aunts, worrier. She was so good at it, she uncles, and cous- won awards. But she had reason to ins, and she worked worry. She had the whole farm to up a sweat. There take care of, including the cows, the was no more need The book pigs, the chickens, and Baby Eli, who to worry about the seemed to be into everything, every creek, but where worm minute of the day. was Baby Eli? Terri Schlichenmeyer One afternoon, while she was in It was even hotter the next day, tale goes on. The language in the garden, Mama worried about a and Mama started to worry about this book will really make you grin, tornado. A twister like that, well, it all of that heat. It could have popped but what’s even better are the illus- could carry the farm off! She worried the corn in the fields! She worried trations by Balsaitis. She gives this and worried — and when Mama wor- and worried — and when Mama wor- book a home-spun feel of a gentler ries, she knits. That day, she knitted ries, she makes sauerkraut, strudel, time when laundry hung outside to enough woolies for the pigs, chick- and snickerdoodle twists. When the dry, the waterin’ hole was a right-fine ens, and cows to wear, and when corn started popping in the field, and place to swim, and summer never a tornado actually did “tumble tail the sugar cane melted, it smelled so ended. over teakettle” toward the farm, she good. But where was Baby Eli now? This book is a knee-slappin’, leg- grabbed Baby Eli and ran. That Eli, Just as suddenly, where was pullin’ passel of fun for 5-to-8-year- he was always into everything. Mama? Was it time to worry about olds, or anybody who knows how to Another day soon afterward, Mama her, too? spin a tale a mile high. And if that’s started to worry about how truly hot There isn’t a kid in the world who either of you, then “Mama Loved to it was. What if Crooked Neck Creek doesn’t love exaggeration in a story, Worry” could be huge. dried up? What would happen then? and Weidt gives it with this rib-tick- “Mama Loved to Worry,” by Maryann She worried and worried — and ler that gets taller and taller as the Weidt [32 pages, 2016, $16.95]. Tales about doggie derring-do Everybody knows that a prisoner-of-war camp in World War So why read “Paws of Courage?” dog is man’s best friend, II, and was eventually listed as a pris- I wondered that myself. Furstinger but that goes doubly for a oner-of-war for her own protection. tells some rather common tales of military or police dog and Also during World War II, around military and working dogs, then and a handler: there are times 10,000 family dogs became K-9 sol- now; you might not recognize them when that relationship is diers, sentries, and sniffers, includ- individually, but the stories are fa- a life-or-death matter. And ing a German Shepherd mix named miliar, if not similar to others you’ve in “Paws of Courage” by Chips, who was honored for bravery browsed or seen online. Been there, Nancy Furstinger, you’ll on the battlefield and for capturing read it, kept the collar — except for find mini-stories of those enemy soldiers all by himself. two easy-to-love things: the abun- bonds, past and present. Belgian Malinois dogs, says dance of pictures in this book and Dogs, of course, have Furstinger, are “canine superheroes” the sidebars of information. served on the battlefield with speed and courage and are a You might find this book in the for millennia, but history only re- “top breed for police and military children’s section of your favorite members a handful of brave canine work.” Newfoundlands are excellent bookish place, but I think it’s more soldiers. In World War I, Sergeant swimmers and can dive; for those for readers ages 14 to adult. Stubby, a pit bull mix, saved count- heroic maneuvers, they’re employed Give “Paws of Courage” to your less lives by warning soldiers of in- in water rescue. Labrador retrievers dog-lover, and you’ll be a hero, too. coming bombs and by alerting them make great arson dogs. “Paws of Courage: True Tales of He- to enemy presence. You would have had to have been roic Dogs That Protect and Serve,” by Tiny Smoky, a Yorkshire terrier, born two months ago to not know Nancy Furstinger, foreword by Ronald L. helped soldiers by doing the same that dogs are important members Aiello [160 pages, 2016, $12.99]. thing in World War II, and due to her of military troops, crime-fighting Terri Schlichenmeyer has been read- size, was also able to help “thread organizations, and anti-drug ef- ing since she was 3 years old, and vital wires” through a narrow un- forts. For most of us, it’s always she never goes anywhere without a derground pipe. An English Pointer been that way; K-9 corps are a com- book. She lives on a hill with two dogs named Judy followed her handler to mon sight. and 12,000 books.

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August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 41 HealtHy eating Farm stand specials or many of us, August is a time them for a corn salad with you don’t have to worry to get out of the city and enjoy all of those same ingre- about sealing and dry F the tranquility of summer. For dients plus a can of storing the jam. Use the others, August is a time to enjoy the drained, rinsed delicious jam over the tranquility inside the city, with less black beans or next week or two for crowds and a slower pace. Wherever chickpeas. all kinds of things you find yourself this month, make including puff-pas- sure you find your way to a farm tomato try tart filling, pan- Tips for stand. The sun-warmed, ripe toma- time cake topping, or toes, plump eggplants, juicy melons, I love sum- a fancy sandwich feeding kids and gem-like stone fruits of August mer tomatoes spread with some Chef Joanna DeVita make the produce stand look like a so much that I good brie or cam- candy shop. Treat these ingredients refrain from eat- embert. The ideal simply, and let their natural flavors ing them most of picnic food! shine! the year, because nothing compares to try a watermelon try something the juicy sweet, acidic flavor salad or soup new with corn blast of August tomatoes. My favorite We all love juicy sliced water- My family loves corn on the cob, breakfast during the tomato season melon and classic fruit salad. But simply grilled and served with salt is the traditional pan con tomate of when there are more melons around and butter. After shucking the corn, I Spain. This snack is so delicious and than we know what to do with, try rub it with olive oil and a few cracks requires no cooking except toasting mixing it up with a savory applica- of black pepper. When ready to grill, some good bread slices. (See the tion. Watermelon salad with mint I wrap the seasoned corn in alumi- recipe below.) or an ice-cold watermelon gazpa- num foil and place onto a hot grill. If The garlicky tomato topping can cho are both elegant additions to a you are lucky and have a campfire, be used for a number of things in friend’s pot luck cookout or a sunset you can place the corn directly on addition to toast, such as a sauce beach dinner. the hot coals of the fire. Just make for grilled chicken, a pizza topping, a sure to turn the wrapped ears fre- pasta salad sauce, and a condiment now is the time for quently. for steamed greens. eggplant Parmesan When corn is cooked to your liking Every year in August, I put aside (about five to 12 minutes depending Make jam some time to make a classic Egg- on the fire heat and your preferred My family’s favorite jam is blue- plant Parmesan. It takes time to do level of char), let the corn cool in its berry, hands down. Making jam it right. foil packet. This allows it to continue doesn’t have to be a huge project, You need to salt and drain the to steam as it cools. and is a great way to make sure no raw eggplant slices, bread and fry You can then add butter and serve fruit goes to waste. Blueberries can each slice, assemble the layers in — or try it Mexican-street style with be very runny, but if you add a fruit a casserole dish with fresh mozza- mayonnaise, chili powder, a squeeze that is high in pectin such as plums rella, basil, Parmesan, and a simple of lime, chopped cilantro, and some or apples, it will thicken it right up tomato sauce. The results can be crumbled cotija cheese. If you can’t naturally. sublime. find cotija, queso fresco or a mild feta Make a small batch in a heavy-bot- Although this is not an easy or will work. tomed sauce pan. Keep the few jars quick dish, it is well worth making Make a few extra ears and save that it yields right in the fridge so when eggplants are at their beautiful peak. Either make a small batch and eat it over a few days or make Pan con tomate multigrain — whatever you prefer the tomato pulp. a giant batch as I do, and freeze the Yields enough to top four slices of DiRECTiONS: Cut the tomato(s) in season the tomato pulp with 2 of leftovers in family-sized portions in toast half. Using a cheese grater, grate the the tablespoons of olive oil, black gallon Ziploc bags. If you get all the air out of the bag and make sure iNGREDiENTS: tomato’s cut-side until only the peel pepper, and a pinch of salt. remains. Let mixture sit to develop flavor it is sealed tightly, these precious 1 large, ripe beefsteak tomato or 3 leftovers will be perfect long after while you toast the bread. medium ripe plum tomatoes discard or eat the peel. reserve the eggplants are out of season. 3 tbsp. excellent-quality olive oil grated tomato insides in a small mix- spoon or brush the tomato mixture Joanna DeVita is executive chef at 1 raw garlic clove ing bowl. over the hot, toasted bread. Léman Manhattan Preparatory School. 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper grate half of the clove of garlic on drizzle the remaining olive oil over DeVita is the mother of two children flake sea salt (preferred), kosher salt, a microplane. reserve the ungrated the bread, letting it drip down the and loves nothing more than sharing or fine sea salt, to taste clove for another use, and add the sides. sprinkle with some more sea her love and respect for nature, good 4 slices toast — sourdough, ciabatta, grated garlic to the mixing bowl with salt, to taste. enjoy! ingredients, and the joy of cooking with them.

42 brooklyn Family • August 2016 HealtHy eating HealtHealtHyh yeating eating Farm stand specials Choose conventional or many of us, August is a time them for a corn salad with you don’t have to worry to get out of the city and enjoy all of those same ingre- about sealing and dry F the tranquility of summer. For dients plus a can of storing the jam. Use the or grass-fed beef? others, August is a time to enjoy the drained, rinsed delicious jam over the tranquility inside the city, with less black beans or next week or two for n spite of today’s high beef crowds and a slower pace. Wherever chickpeas. all kinds of things prices, some families are opting you find yourself this month, make including puff-pas- I to pay even more for grass-fed sure you find your way to a farm tomato try tart filling, pan- beef. They believe it’s tastier and Tips for stand. The sun-warmed, ripe toma- time cake topping, or Good sense more nutritious than conventional toes, plump eggplants, juicy melons, I love sum- a fancy sandwich grain-fed beef. Are they onto some- feeding kids and gem-like stone fruits of August mer tomatoes spread with some eatinG thing? Chef Joanna DeVita make the produce stand look like a so much that I good brie or cam- Christine M. PaluMbo, rD First, some beefy definitions: candy shop. Treat these ingredients refrain from eat- embert. The ideal Conventional beef. Cattle that simply, and let their natural flavors ing them most of picnic food! spend the majority of their lives shine! the year, because grazing on grassy pastures. They nothing compares to try a watermelon are then “finished” for the last three try something the juicy sweet, acidic flavor salad or soup to nearly 12 months on a primarily new with corn blast of August tomatoes. My favorite We all love juicy sliced water- grain-based diet that may include My family loves corn on the cob, breakfast during the tomato season melon and classic fruit salad. But corn, soybeans, roughage, and nu- simply grilled and served with salt is the traditional pan con tomate of when there are more melons around tritional supplements. The animals and butter. After shucking the corn, I Spain. This snack is so delicious and than we know what to do with, try are often given antibiotics and hor- rub it with olive oil and a few cracks requires no cooking except toasting mixing it up with a savory applica- mones. of black pepper. When ready to grill, some good bread slices. (See the tion. Watermelon salad with mint Grass-fed beef. These cattle eat I wrap the seasoned corn in alumi- recipe below.) or an ice-cold watermelon gazpa- grass and forage from the pasture num foil and place onto a hot grill. If The garlicky tomato topping can cho are both elegant additions to a until they are harvested. Until Janu- you are lucky and have a campfire, be used for a number of things in friend’s pot luck cookout or a sunset ary of this year, the Department you can place the corn directly on addition to toast, such as a sauce beach dinner. of Agriculture formally defined this the hot coals of the fire. Just make for grilled chicken, a pizza topping, a method of feeding. “Grass-fed” beef sure to turn the wrapped ears fre- pasta salad sauce, and a condiment now is the time for can still be found in the meat case, of total fat and one more gram of farming and the ways the animals quently. for steamed greens. eggplant Parmesan but there is no legal definition of this protein. are cared for. When corn is cooked to your liking Every year in August, I put aside term. Instead, look for private bod- One widely heralded claim is Two more labels you may encoun- (about five to 12 minutes depending Make jam some time to make a classic Egg- ies that certify beef as having been that it provides a greater amount of ter at the meat counter: on the fire heat and your preferred My family’s favorite jam is blue- plant Parmesan. It takes time to do raised on grass. These include Amer- omega-3 fatty acids. naturally raised beef. This is a level of char), let the corn cool in its berry, hands down. Making jam it right. ican Grassfed, Food Alliance, and An- It is true the grass-fed contains Department of Agriculture certifi- foil packet. This allows it to continue doesn’t have to be a huge project, You need to salt and drain the imal Welfare Approved, which also double the omega-3s, but the overall cation that the meat is harvested to steam as it cools. and is a great way to make sure no raw eggplant slices, bread and fry look at the confinement of animals, amount is very small. Conventional from cattle raised completely free You can then add butter and serve fruit goes to waste. Blueberries can each slice, assemble the layers in environmental stewardship, and use beef contains 0.02 gram omega-3s from growth hormones, antibiotics, — or try it Mexican-street style with be very runny, but if you add a fruit a casserole dish with fresh mozza- of hormones and antibiotics. per 3½ ounces, compared to 0.05 or animal by-products. This could mayonnaise, chili powder, a squeeze that is high in pectin such as plums rella, basil, Parmesan, and a simple gram per 3½ ounces. If you want be either grain- or grass-fed. By con- of lime, chopped cilantro, and some or apples, it will thicken it right up tomato sauce. The results can be Better nutrition? omega-3s, go for fatty fish and trast, “natural” beef can come from crumbled cotija cheese. If you can’t naturally. sublime. Proponents of grass-fed beef point omega-3 eggs. cattle raised on a feedlot, fed geneti- find cotija, queso fresco or a mild feta Make a small batch in a heavy-bot- Although this is not an easy or to its superior nutritional profile. For The undisputed benefits of grass- cally modified grain or grain grown will work. tomed sauce pan. Keep the few jars quick dish, it is well worth making example, a serving of grass-feed beef fed, pasture-raised beef include the with pesticides, or given antibiotics Make a few extra ears and save that it yields right in the fridge so when eggplants are at their beauti- provides roughly two fewer grams long-term sustainability of animal or hormones. ful peak. Either make a small batch Grass-fed organic beef. This and eat it over a few days or make meat comes from cattle fed on only shredded) iron skillet and bake in the oven for multigrain — whatever you prefer the tomato pulp. a giant batch as I do, and freeze the Southwest 100 percent organic grass and for- Pan con tomate 20–25 minutes until bubbly. Remove season the tomato pulp with 2 of leftovers in family-sized portions in chicken dip 1/2 cup black beans (drained and age. These cattle are never given Yields enough to top four slices of DiRECTiONS: Cut the tomato(s) in rinsed) from oven and garnish with scallions, toast half. Using a cheese grater, grate the the tablespoons of olive oil, black gallon Ziploc bags. If you get all the Prep: 10 mins. Cook: 25 mins shredded cheese, beans, and corn. antibiotics or hormones. Consumers air out of the bag and make sure 1/2 cup corn Union recommends this whenever iNGREDiENTS: tomato’s cut-side until only the peel pepper, and a pinch of salt. Yield: 10 half-cup servings serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, it is sealed tightly, these precious 1 cup shredded Mexican blend possible. remains. Let mixture sit to develop flavor pita chips, and/or crackers. 1 large, ripe beefsteak tomato or 3 leftovers will be perfect long after INGREDIENTS: cheese If grass-fed or other premium beef while you toast the bread. medium ripe plum tomatoes discard or eat the peel. reserve the eggplants are out of season. 1 1/2 cup stonyfield Whole Milk Plain Garnish: sliced scallions, shredded NUTRITION FACTS (without gar- is not in your budget, watch the por- 3 tbsp. excellent-quality olive oil grated tomato insides in a small mix- spoon or brush the tomato mixture Joanna DeVita is executive chef at Greek Yogurt cheese, beans, and corn nish): 190 calories, 8 g carbohydrate tion size and select extra lean cuts of 1 raw garlic clove ing bowl. over the hot, toasted bread. Léman Manhattan Preparatory School. 1 8 oz. package neufchatel or cream DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to (4 g sugars), 16 g protein, 11 g fat conventional beef. 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper grate half of the clove of garlic on drizzle the remaining olive oil over DeVita is the mother of two children cheese (softened) 375-degrees Fahrenheit. Mix all of (6 g saturated), 1 g fiber, 330 mg Christine Palumbo is a registered di- flake sea salt (preferred), kosher salt, a microplane. reserve the ungrated the bread, letting it drip down the and loves nothing more than sharing 1 cup salsa the ingredients together in a large sodium, 8% dV vitamin a, 2% dV etitian nutritionist in Naperville, Ill. Find or fine sea salt, to taste clove for another use, and add the sides. sprinkle with some more sea her love and respect for nature, good 1 tsp. chili powder bowl until incorporated. transfer vitamin C, 15% dV calcium, 4% iron. her at Christine Palumbo Nutrition on 4 slices toast — sourdough, ciabatta, grated garlic to the mixing bowl with salt, to taste. enjoy! ingredients, and the joy of cooking with 2 cups chicken breast (cooked and the mixture to a baking dish or cast- Used with permission from Stonyfield.com. Facebook, @PalumboRD on Twitter, or them. ChristinePalumbo.com.

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 43 Calendaraugust

The Brooklyn ARTery is again nicipal Credit Union and Corner hosting its annual Storytelling Fes- Media Group. More than just tival on Governors Island on Aug. 7, Storytelling Festival on Aug. 7, 14, 21, and 28. 14, 21, and 28 from 1 to 3 pm. Free. Featured storytellers include Re- Families can get the ferries to storytime gina Ress on Aug. 7, Arif Choud- the island at 10 South St. in Manhat- hury on Aug. 14, Julie Pasqual and tan or Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 6 puppets on Aug. 21, and origami in Brooklyn. swami Megan Hicks, as well as the Brooklyn ARTery Soundstage [Out- Marshall Katzman Marionettes, on side Building 10 in Nolan Park on Gov- Aug. 28. ernors Island, (347) 425- 7770, www. The festival is sponsored by Mu- brooklynartery.com].

44 brooklyn Family • August 2016 Never miss a great event! Sign up for our FREE newsletter and get twice-a-week ideas for you and your family right in your mailbox. NYParenting.com Calendar 200 Eastern Pkwy. at Washington Av- enue; (718) 638–5000; www.brooklyn- Submit a listing museum.org; 8 pm; Free. This calendar is dedicated to Celebrate the 20th anniversary of bringing our readers the most the animated cult classic, which follows comprehensive list of events in Michael Jordan and the Looney Tunes your area. But to do so, we need characters in an outer space basketball your help! game. Send your listing request to Explore the heavens: Brooklyn brooklyn[email protected] Bridge Park Pier 1 entrance, Old Fulton — and we’ll take care of the rest. St. and Furman Streets; www.nycgov- Please e-mail requests more prks.org; 8:30 pm to 10:30 pm; Free. than three weeks prior to the Come see the stars, planets and the event to ensure we have enough moon from the park. time to get it in. And best of all, it’s FREE! Fri, Aug. 5 In Brooklyn Mon, Aug. 1 “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”: WNYC Transmitter Park, West Street In Brooklyn and Greenpoint Avenue; (347) 987– Mindful Crafts: Tykes in the 2765; www.nycgovarks.org; 8 pm to Heights, 663 Vanderbilt Ave.; (646) 10pm; Free. 309–5540; lucie@mischievousgod- Older teens will enjoy this movie from dess.com; www.mischievousgoddess. the Star Wars franchise. com/#!brooklyn/c397z; 4 – 4:45 pm; $18. Sat, Aug. 6 Unicorns, mermaids, and faeries … Go double Dutch oh my! They’re all real in Mischievous In Brooklyn Goddess World! And they come to life Hallo! Ankie van der Meer and including Adriaen Block and the Cooking workshop: Wyckoff Farm- during this inspiring art-and-craft series Nanne Kalmas will be performing “Onrust,” Peter Stuyvesant, and house Museum, 5816 Clarendon Rd.; that is woven with ancient wisdom and Dutch folk songs at the Water- other themes from New Nether- (718) 629–5400; 1 pm to 3 pm; $8 ma- mindfulness practices. Using materials terials fee. front Museum Barge on Aug. 13. lands and New Amsterdam. found in nature (and a few bits of spar- Join Cheryl Paswater, a certified fer- kle!) we will paint, build, weave, mould The pair have collaborated Nanne & Ankie, Dutch folk mentationist and educator who will and create a variety of awesome crafts on projects like the Henry Hud- singers, on Aug. 13 at 2 and 4 pm. teach older teens how to make a few for your little love to treasure! son and the Half Moon project Free. seasonal ferments, including sauerkraut and primarily sing in Frisian and Waterfront Museum Barge [290 and styles of sour cream. Tues, Aug. 2 Dutch, Esperanto, and English. Conover St. near Reed Street in Red Hindu Lamp Ceremony: Pebble They will share their repertoire Hook, (718) 624–4719; www.water- In Brooklyn Beach at Brooklyn Bridge Park, Old of historical poems and songs frontmuseum.org]. Fulton Street and Furman Street; www. Story time: Brooklyn Bridge Park nycgovparks.org; 4 pm to 8 pm; Free. Pier 3 Greenway Terrace, Pierrpont Help bring peace and harmony to Street and the water; www.brooklyn- the shoreline. Watch Aeilushi Mis- bridgepark.org; 10:30 am to 11 am; Pier 2, Clarke Street at the Roller Rink; cgovprks.org; 6 pm to 10 pm; Free. try perform the traditional Aarti cer- Free. www.nycgovparks.org; 7 pm to 9 pm; The quintessential teen movie. Bring emony at the park, then enjoy a dance Listen to Brooklyn Heights librarians Free. a chair or blanket. performance. read stories from the Brooklyn Public Li- Learn to jump with experienced Fishing nite: Prospect Park Audubon Garden Grooves: Greene Acres brary’s reading list and have a rollicking Double Dutch Empire instructors. For all Center, enter park at Lincoln Road and Community Garden, 334 Franklin Ave.; good time listening to stories, singing abilities but recommended for children Ocean Avenue; (718) 287–3400; www. (212) 333–2552; 6 pm to 8:30 pm; songs, and enjoying the breeze from older than 15. prospectpark.org/audubon; 6pm to 8 Free. the water. pm; $5 per person. Enjoy the sounds of live music from Story Hour: Imagination Playground, Thurs, Aug. 4 Prospect Park Alliance welcomes fam- local musicians. Ocean Avenue and Lincoln Road; ilies to an introductory catch-and-re- In Brooklyn www.prospectpark.org; 3 pm; Free. lease fishing class. Our experienced nat- Astronomy: Owl’s Head Park, 68th Street and Shore Road; (718) 421– Gather around Peter and Willie, the Summer Sports: McDonald Play- uralists will teach participants how to 2021; www.nycgovparks.org; 8 pm to statue of two beloved Keats characters, ground, McDonald Avenue and E. First tie a fishing knot, attach bait, and cast 9 pm; Free. for storytelling adventures brought to Street; www.nycgovparks.org; 10 am a line to a try and hook a fish! Families Our Urban Park Rangers will be your life by Tammy Hall. Sponsored by the to 11:30 am; Free. and children ages 8 years and older are guides to the solar system, discussing Ezra Jack Keats Foundation. Children 7 to 17 play street hockey. welcome to participate. All equipment For all levels. and light snacks will be provided. Ad- the science, history, and folklore of the vance registration is required. universe. Astronomy programs feature Wed, Aug. 3 “Mermaid and Neptune the use of telescopes and binoculars to Crowns”: Greenpoint Library, 431 “The Sandlot”: Fort Greene Park observe specific astronomical events. In Brooklyn Sixth Ave.; (718) 832–1853; www. Visitor Center, enter park at Myrtle Nature walk: Brooklyn Bridge Park bklynlibrary.org; 11:45 am; Free. Avenue and Washington Park; (718) Pier 1 entrance, Old Fulton and Furman Join author Melanie Hope Greenberg 722–3218; 7:30 to 10:30 pm; Free. Sun, Aug. 7 streets; www.nycgvparks.org; 6:30 pm for a story reading and craft activity Partnering with the Brooklyn Hospi- In Brooklyn to 8:30 pm; $5 ($10 non-members). workshop. tal Center’s Young Leadership Coun- “Mermaid and Neptune Join environmentalist educator Chris- cil, come and enjoy this family friendly “American Graffiti”: Brooklyn Crowns”: Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier tina Tobitsch on a tree walk. movie on the lawn. Bridge Park Pier 1 entrance, Old Fulton 6, Furman Street; www.brooklyn- Double Dutch: Brooklyn Bridge Park Street and Furman Streets; www.ny- “Space Jam”: Brooklyn Museum, Continued on page 46 August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 45 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 45 Park, West Street and Greenpoint Av- bridgepark.org; 11 am; Free. enue; (347) 987–2765; www.nycgov- Meet author Melanie Hope Green- arks.org; 8 pm to 10pm; Free. berg for a special story time. What really goes on inside a kid’s head? Find out in this kid-friendly flick. Shira and Friends: Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 6, Joralemon Street; www.ny- cgovpark.org; 11 am to 1 pm; Free. Sat, Aug. 13 Led by singer-songwriter Shira Ko- In Brooklyn bren, Shira & Friends loves bringing its high-energy, catchy tunes to its favorite Dutch Folksingers: Waterfront kinds of audiences — the ones that love Museum Barge, 290 Conover St. near to dance along and become part of the Reed Street; (718) 624–4719; www. show. Shira & Friends sing about topics waterfrontmuseum.org; 2 pm and 4 that range from how to have the best pm; Free. day, to under-the-bed-monsters, to the Ankie van der Meer and Nanne power of dancing. Kalmas sing a repertoire of historical songs about Henry Hudson and the Checkmate 101: Brooklyn Bridge “Half Moon,” Adriaen Block and the Park Pier 6, Joralemon Street; 11 am to “Onrust,” Peter Stuyvesant, and other 1 pm; Free. themes from New Netherlands and Come learn how to take your chess New Amsterdam. game to the next level with Zeebedee Collins! Best for beginners; limited LuLu’s Cuts & Toys 15th Anni- boards available. versary Carnival: LuLu’s Cuts & Toys, 48 Fifth Ave. between Bergen Intermediate Canoeing: Marine It’s hole-in-one fun! and Dean streets; www.luluskidscuts. Park, Burnett Street and Avenue U; nyc; 5–8 pm; Free. (718) 421–2021; nycgovparks.org; 1 pm Tee off at CityParks Golf now Bayview Avenue in Coney Island) The neighborhood hairstylist and toy to 3 pm; Free. through Aug. 25 at Kaiser Park It’s also at St. John’s Park on store celebrates more than a decade in For children 8 and older with some and St. John’s Park. Tuesdays and Thursdays from Park Slope. Come out for a block party experience. Must be accompanied by Children ages 6 to 17 can learn 9:30 to 10:30 am for children 6 to featuring face painting, carnival games, guardian or parent. rides, and more. the basics of the sport, from tee- 8 and from 10:30 am to noon for Further Afield ing off to how to sink that hole- children 9 to 17 years old. North Summer Strolls: Fifth Av- enue between Dean Street and Sterling Storytelling festival: Governors in-one. St. John’s Park (Bergen St. and Island at Nolan Park, Building 10, Man- Place; info@parkslopefifthavenuebid. City Golf is now through Aug. Troy Avenue in Crown Heights) com; www.parkslopefifthavenuebid. hattan; (347) 425–7770; www.brookly- 25 at Kaiser Park on Mondays City Golf is free and is pre- nartery.com; 1 pm to 3 pm; Free. com; 5–9 pm; Free. and Wednesdays from 9:30 am to sented by René Lacoste Founda- Hosted by Brooklyn ARTery Sound- Rock-climbing wall, hula hoops, bub- stage, the event features Regina Ress. 10:30 am for children 6 to 8, and tion and CityParks Foundation. bles, giveaways by local businesses, and more. Families can get the ferries to the island from 10:30 am to noon for chil- Registration online is required: at 10 South St. in Manhattan or Brook- dren 9 to 17 years old. www.cityparksfoundation.org/ “The Winter’s Tale”: 7 pm to 9 pm. lyn Bridge Park, Pier 6 in Brooklyn. Kaiser Park (Neptune Avenue and sports/register Bridge View Lawn at Brooklyn Bridge Park. See Tuesday, Aug. 9. Mon, Aug. 8 “Murder at the Food Coop”: Flamboyan Theater (Venue 2), 107 Suf- In Brooklyn Thurs, Aug. 11 Hip to Hip Theatre Company celebrates its 10th season of Free Shake- folk St. between Rivington and Delancy Mindful Crafts: 4 – 4:45 pm. Tykes In Brooklyn speare in the Parks with a performance streets; www.fringeonthefly.com; 9:45 in the Heights. See Monday, Aug. 1. Summer Sports: 10 am to 11:30 of the tragedy. pm; $18 (no late seating). am. McDonald Playground. See Thurs- Explore the heavens: 8:30 pm to My, oh, my! The best whodunnit! Tues, Aug. 9 day, Aug. 4. 10:30 pm. Pier 1 entrance. See Thurs- The Park Slope Food Coop is the setting day, Aug. 4. for this fruit and veggie farce, where In Brooklyn Creatures of the Night: Pros- beneath the green leafy leftist exterior Story time: 10:30 am to 11 am. pect Park Audubon Center, enter park slinks all manner of evil. Suitable for Pier 3 Greenway Terrace. See Tuesday, at Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue; Fri, Aug. 12 tweens and teens. Aug. 2. (718) 287–3400; www.prospectpark. org/audubon; 7 pm to 9 pm; $10 per In Brooklyn “The Winter’s Tale”: Bridge View person (family of four discount tickets Goodnight Goddess Parties: Sun, Aug. 14 Lawn at Brooklyn Bridge Park, Old available). Tykes in the Heights, 663 Vanderbilt In Brooklyn Fulton Street and Furman Street; nfo@ Ave. at Park Place; www.mischiveous- This family-friendly version allows Foraging in the Park: Grand Army brooklynbridgepark.org; www.nycgov- goddess.com; 5:30–7:30 pm; $40 per you to explore after dark with expert Plaza, Union Street between Flatbush parks.org; 7 pm to 9 pm; Free. child, including dinner. naturalist Paul Keim. Share snacks and Avenue and Prospect Park West; (914) Shakespeare’s rom-com presented by beverages with Paul as he speaks about Drop off the girls and go on a date! 835–2153; www.wildmanstevebrill. the New York Classical Theatre. the ecological role that bats and noc- Incorporating mindfulness with imagi- com; 11:30 am; $20 ($10 children un- turnal insects play in our environment, native play and creativity, each party der 12). will be inspired by a unique and inspir- followed by a walking tour to spot and Join Wildman Steve Brill and hunt Wed, Aug. 10 ing theme. For girls aged 5-8, and in- identify the Park’s various species of for King Bolete Mushrooms and other cludes story-telling, meditation, craft In Brooklyn resident bats in flight. Advance registra- edibles. Double Dutch: 7 pm to 9 pm. Pier 2. tion is required. activity, and supper. Sunset TankerTime: Portside New- See Wednesday, Aug. 3. “The Winter’s Tale”: 7 pm to 9 pm. “Julius Caesar”: Fort Greene Park York, Pioneer Street at Bowne Street; Bridge View Lawn at Brooklyn Bridge Visitor Center, enter park at Myrtle (917) 414–0565; www.portsidenewy- “The Winter’s Tale”: 7 pm to 9 pm. Park. See Tuesday, Aug. 9. Bridge View Lawn at Brooklyn Bridge Avenue and Washington Park; (718) ork.org; 5–10 pm; Free. Park. See Tuesday, Aug. 9. 722–3218; 7:30 pm; Free. “Inside Out”: WNYC Transmitter Bring a picnic, take-out dinner, bottle 46 brooklyn Family • August 2016 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar of wine, your sketchbook, your kids, ticipants in on-field, hands-on exercises. your main squeeze for a quiet and re- Each participant will also receive four laxing sunset at the end of your week- tickets to that night’s game. Pre-reg- end on Red Hook’s main dock. Selec- istration required at www.nymcu.org/ tions from the maritime library will be baseballclinics. available for reading on site. Double Dutch: 7 pm to 9 pm. Pier 2. “Murder at the Food Coop”: 5 See Wednesday, Aug. 3. pm. Flamboyan Theater (Venue 2). See Saturday, Aug. 13. Thurs, Aug. 25 “The Winter’s Tale”: 7 pm to 9 pm. In Brooklyn Bridge View Lawn at Brooklyn Bridge Park. See Tuesday, Aug. 9. Summer Sports: 10 am to 11:30 am. McDonald Playground. See Thurs- Further Afield day, Aug. 4. Storytelling festival: Governors “Murder at the Food Coop”: 6:15 Island in Nolan Park, Building 10, Man- pm. Flamboyan Theater (Venue 2). See hattan; (347) 425- 7770; www.brook- Saturday, Aug. 13. lynartery.com; 1 pm to 3 pm; Free. Hosted by Brooklyn ARTery Sound- Explore the heavens: 8:30 pm to stage, the event Arif Choudhury. Fami- File photo by Steve Solomonson 10:30 pm. Pier 1 entrance. See Thurs- lies can get the ferries to the island at day, Aug. 4. 10 South St. in Manhattan or Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pier 6 in Brooklyn. Masterpieces in sand Fri, Aug. 26 Grab your pails, shovels, and turn sand into a towering mas- In Brooklyn imagination — it’s the 26th an- terpiece for a chance to win cash Wed, Aug. 17 Goodnight Goddess Parties: nual Sand Sculpting Contest in prizes and bragging rights. In Brooklyn 5:30–7:30 pm. Tykes in the Heights. Coney Island on Aug. 20. Preregistration required for all See Friday, Aug. 12. Double Dutch: 7 pm to 9 pm. Pier 2. Sponsored by Astella Devel- entrants. See Wednesday, Aug. 3. opment Corporation and Brook- Sand Sculpting Contest, Aug. “Murder at the Food Coop”: 7:15 lyn Community Services, the 20 from noon to 4 pm. Free. Sat, Aug. 27 pm. Flamboyan Theater (Venue 2). See family-friendly event is open to Coney Island Beach (Off Board- In Brooklyn Saturday, Aug. 13. amateurs and semi-professional walk between W. 10th and W. 12th Afropunk Festival: Commodore sand-sculpting artists of all ages. streets, www.wearebcs.org/bcs/ Barry Park, Navy Street at Flushing Ave- Thurs, Aug. 18 Everyone has the chance to news_events/sand-sculpting2016/). nue; www.afropunkfest.com/brooklyn; 11 am–10 pm; Tickets starts at $45. In Brooklyn Ice Cube headlines the yearly music Summer Sports: 10 am to 11:30 festival. He’s joined by rapper Tyler, the am. McDonald Playground. See Thurs- event is hosted by Brooklyn Community pm; $45 ($40 children). Creator, funk legend George Clinton, day, Aug. 4. Services and Astella Development Corp. Come aboard the schooner Pioneer and hip-hop producer Flying Lotus, Registration required. Must arrive be- and set sail past Governors Island for among many others. Rolie Polie Guacamole: The Old fore 11 am. the fishing grounds of Bay Ridge. We’ll Stone House, 336 Third St. between set a trawl net and participants will haul Further Afield Fourth and Fifth avenues; (718) 768– North Summer Strolls: Fifth Av- enue between Dean Street and Sterling it in, bringing up a variety of creatures Arthur Ashe Kid’s Day: USTA Bil- 3195; theoldstonehouse.org; 5:30 pm; from blue crabs to flounder. The sail is lie Jean King National Tennis Center, Free. Place; info@parkslopefifthavenuebid. com; www.parkslopefifthavenuebid. recommended for children aged 5 and Corona Park, Queens; (866) OPEN-TIX The kid’s band kicks off the sum- com; 5–9 pm; Free. up. Reservations required. (673–6849); www.usopen.org; 9:30 mer playground season with its family- Storytelling festival: Governors am to 4 pm; $10 general admission friendly hits. Watch or join in on the Artichoke Pizza Eating Contest! With special Island in Nolan Park, Building 10, Man- ($25 loge tickets). Explore the heavens: 8:30 pm to guests from the World Wrestling En- hattan; (347) 425- 7770; www.brook- The 21st annual event is presented 10:30 pm. Pier 1 entrance. See Thurs- tertainment, so stay tuned. Also featur- lynartery.com; 1 pm to 3 pm; Free. by Hess. Singing sensations Flo Rida, day, Aug. 4. ing a rock-climbing wall, hula hoops, Hosted by Brooklyn ARTery Sound- Zara Larsson, Troye Sivan, Jordan Fisher, bubbles, giveaways by local businesses, stage, the event features Julie Pasqual Laura Marano, and Forever In Your and more. and puppets. Families can get the fer- Mind will team up with reigning 2015 Sat, Aug. 20 ries to the island at 10 South St. in US Open Champion Novak Djokovic Garden Grooves: Greene Acres Manhattan or Brooklyn Bridge Park, and two-time US Open Champion In Brooklyn Community Garden, 322 Greene Ave. Pier 6 in Brooklyn. Rafael Nadal to kick-off the 2016 US Field Day: Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier between Franklin and Classon avenues; Open. 2, Clarke Street; www.nycgovparks. www.nyrp.org/calendar; 6–8:30 pm; org; 10 am to 2 pm; Free. Free. Wed, Aug. 24 This event is accessible to all ages and Sun, Aug. 28 Featuring free-form jazz fused with In Brooklyn abilities. Enjoy obstacle courses on the Negro spirituals and freedom songs of In Brooklyn play turf, bocce games, four square, “Murder at the Food Coop”: 2 13th Amendment and the Afrotronic Wash Day Special Needs: Lefferts pm. Flamboyan Theater (Venue 2). See shuffleboard, and basketball clinics pre- funk of Digital Diaspora. Historic Homestead, 452 Flatbush Ave. Saturday, Aug. 13. sented by Big & Little Skills Academy between Empire Boulevard and East- and Dodge YMCA! Sun, Aug. 21 MCU Youth Baseball and Soft- ern Parkway; (718) 789–2822; www. Sand Sculpting contest: Coney ball Clinic: MCU Park, 1904 Surf Ave. prospectpark.org; 9 am to noon; Free. Island Boardwalk, Beach between W. Further Afield at W. 17th Street; (718) 449–8497; Visitors can enjoy interactive, sensory- 10th and W. 12th streets; wearebcs. Ecology Sail: Schooner Pioneer [email protected]; www.brook- based learning experiences at Lefferts org/sand; Noon to 4 pm; Free. leaves from Pier 16, South Street Sea- lyncyclones.com; 5:30 pm; Free. Historic House, or ride the Carousel Open to all sculpting artists of all port in Manhattan; https://web.ova- Open to children 7–14 years old. with the lights and sounds turned off to ages and abilities. This 26th annual tiontix.com/trs/pr/961826; Noon to 3 Brooklyn Cyclones players lead the par- Continued on page 48 August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 47 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 47 Street and Dwight Street; www.palnyc. accommodate those with noise sensi- org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, Now – tivities. Attendance limited, please RSVP Fri, Aug. 19; Free. in advance. Play Streets: Fox Playground, E. 55th Afropunk Festival: 11 am–10 pm. Street and E. 54th Street; www.palnyc. Commodore Barry Park. See Saturday, org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, Now – Aug. 27. Fri, Aug. 19; Free. Book Bag Giveaway: Jesus Out- Play Streets: Glenwood Shelter, reach Tabernacle, 1368 Fulton St.; (718) 4612 Glenwood Rd.; www.palnyc.org; 569–9067; http://jesusoutreachtaber- Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, Now – Fri, nacle.org/; 12:30 pm to 3 pm; Free. Aug. 19; Free. Children will be served refreshments Play Streets: Junius Street Family and receive a book bag. First come first Residence, 25 Junius St.; www.palnyc. served. All are welcomed. Hosted by org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, Now – Pastors Terrance and Sandy Roberts. Fri, Aug. 19; Free. Wash Day workshop: Lefferts His- toric Homestead, 452 Flatbush Ave. Play Streets: Kelly Playground, E. between Empire Boulevard and East- 14th Street and E. 15th Steet; www. ern Parkway; (718) 789–2822; www. palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, prospectpark.org; 1 pm to 4 pm; Free. Now – Fri, Aug. 19; Free. Cool off from the summer sun at Play Streets: Liberty Avenue Family Lefferts by helping Alliance educators Residence, 51 Junius St.; www.palnyc. get the dirt out of our 19th-century A quest for wildlife org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm, Now – reproduction clothing the non-electric Fri, Aug. 19; Free. way — using tubs, washboards, and Take the challenge to learn all tors will conduct experiments bar soap. Play Streets: Linden Houses, be- about wildlife in a new program inspired by the activities of sci- tween Stanley Avenue and Wortman Further Afield called the Quests at Prospect entists saving wildlife and wild Avenue; www.palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 Storytelling festival: Governors Park Zoo now through Sept. 5. places around the world. am to 5 pm, Now – Fri, Aug. 19; Free. Island in Nolan Park, Building 10, Man- The Quests are geared to Citizen Science – New York Play Streets: Marlboro Houses, be- hattan; (347) 425–7770; www.brookly- children, but adults may par- City is home to a variety of birds, tween W. Eighth Street and W. 11th nartery.com; 1 pm to 3 pm; Free. ticipate as well. Visitors will including rock doves and grack- Street; www.palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 Hosted by Brooklyn ARTery Sound- learn about animals in scaven- les. Visitors will be shown pho- am to 5 pm, Now – Fri, Aug. 19; Free. stage, the event features Megan Hicks. ger hunt format and embark on tos of these and other birds and Families can get the ferries to the island Play Streets: Renaldo Salgado Park, at 10 South St. in Manhattan or Brook- a nature adventure to identify report back which species they between Monroe Street and Madison lyn Bridge Park, Pier 6 in Brooklyn. local birds, discover ways to were able to identify. Street; www.palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 reduce pollution, learn about Ocean Connections – At the am to 5 pm, Now – Fri, Aug. 19; Free. Tues, Aug. 30 ocean and other aquatic habi- Sea Lion Court, visitors will learn Play Streets: Tompkins Houses, be- tats, and more. about protecting marine life by tween Tompkins Avenue and Throop In Brooklyn The five Quest stations are: taking part in quizzes that test Avenue; www.palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 Rolie Polie Guacamole: Brook- Nature Playscape – Partici- their knowledge of oceans and am to 5 pm, Now – Fri, Aug. 19; Free. lyn Public Library’s Central branch, 10 pants will get creative along the the animals that live there. Summer Sports: Sunset Park Recre- Grand Army Plaza, between East- Discovery Trail, with activities Participants recieve a Quest ation Center, 43rd Street and Seventh ern Parkway and Flatbush Avenue; Avenue; (718) 972–2135; www.nycgov- (718) 230–2100; www.brooklynpub- and explorations using natural map brochure at the start of each objects inspired by the animals adventure, then visit several sta- parks.org; Weekdays, 9 am to 4:30 pm, liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. Now – Sat, Sept. 17; Free. jsp?branchpageid=265; 11 am; Free. that live here, including prairie tions around the park to com- Tots program for children 8 months Come on down to a Chips and Salsa dogs, dingoes, red pandas, river plete science and conservation old to 3 years old. Summertime concert with the kings of otters, and tufted deer. challenges. kindie rock. Get up and go!: Seth Low Play- Wetland Wonders – Inside Quest Stations is offered now ground, W. 12th Street between the Animal Lifestyles building, through Sept. 5, Wednesdays Avenue P and Bay Parkway; www. Wed, Aug. 31 visitors will learn about the wet- through Sundays, 11 am to 3 pm, cityparksfoundation.org/sports/kids-fit- In Brooklyn land habitats of New York City and is free with zoo admission. ness; Mondays and Wednesdays, 9:30 am to noon, Now – Fri, Aug. 19; Free. Double Dutch: 7 pm to 9 pm. Pier 2. and what you can do to keep Prospect Park Zoo [450 Flatbush This educational, multi-sport fitness See Wednesday, Aug. 3. these ecosystems healthy. Ave. at Ocean Avenue in Pros- Conservation Station – At pect Park, (718) 399–7339, www. program is designed to get children, ages 6 to 10, to be active in their local Long-running the Hall of Animals exhibit, visi- prospectparkzoo.com/quests]. parks. The “Get Up & Go!” program gives kids the chance to learn about In Brooklyn health, nutrition, and fitness while hav- Summer camp: PS 163, 109 Bay Hosted by the Italian American Orga- Play Streets: Boulevard Houses, ing a blast with their friends. 14th St.; [email protected]; nization. Open for all children. Stanley Avenue and Wortman Avenue; CityParks Golf: Kaiser Park, Nep- Weekdays, 8 am to 1:15 pm, Now – Fri, www.palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 Play Streets: 61st Street and Fourth tune and Bayview avenues; www.Cit- Aug. 5; Free. pm, Now – Fri, Aug. 19; Free. Avenue; www.palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 yParksFoundation.org.; Mondays and Hosted by the Italian American Orga- Wednesdays, 9:30 am to noon, Mon, nization. Open for all children. am to 5 pm, Now – Fri, Aug. 19; Free. Play Streets: Brownsville Houses, Rockaway Avenue and Osborn Street; Aug. 1 – Thurs, Aug. 25; Free. Summer camp: PS 209, 2609 E. The Police Athletic League is again Children 6 to 17 years old learn the hosting Play Streets, offering a safe en- www.palnyc.org; Weekdays, 9 am to 5 Seventh St.; [email protected]; pm, Now – Fri, Aug. 19; Free. proper use of equipment and the ba- Weekdays, 8 am to 1:15 pm, Now – Fri, vironment for children to play sidewalk sics of the sport. Online registration Aug. 19; Free. games, be creative, and just have fun. Play Streets: Coffey Park, Richards required. 48 brooklyn Family • August 2016 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar CityParks Golf: St. John’s Park, join a ranger and identify the more than Bergen Street and Troy Avenue; www. 250 species of birds in the park. CityParksFoundation.org.; Tuesdays Macy’s fishing clinic: Prospect and Thursdays, 9:30 am to noon, Mon, Park Audubon Center, enter park at Aug. 1 – Thurs, Aug. 25; Free. Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue; (718) First Discoveries: Brooklyn Bo- 287–3400; www.prospectpark.org/ tanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave. audubon; Saturdays and Sundays, 1 to at Eastern Parkway; (718) 623–7220; 3 pm, Mon, Aug. 1 – Wed, Aug. 31; www.bbg.org; Tuesdays, 9:30 am, Free. Now – Tues, Aug. 23; Free with Garden This popular summer program offers Admission. kids and adults of all ages the oppor- Calling all explorers from 2 to 4 years tunity to fish. Participants learn about old to plant a seed, touch a wriggly aquatic ecology, fishing safety, and will worm, and hear a story by the meadow even get to use live bait. Pre-register to nook. reserve your spot. Limited drop-in spots Kids’ Discovery Stations: Brook- are also available. lyn Botanic Garden, 1000 Washing- Bargemusic Concert: Bargemusic, ton Ave. at Eastern Parkway; (718) Fulton Ferry Landing, Old Fulton Street 623–7220; www.bbg.org; Tuesdays and Furman Street; (718) 624–2083; and Wednesdays, 10:15 am to 12:15 www.bargemusic.org; Saturdays, 4 pm pm, Thursdays and Fridays, 10:15 am, to 5 pm, Now – Sat, Sept. 24; Free. Now – Fri, Aug. 26; Free with Garden Walk across the gangplank of a reno- Admission. vated coffee barge for a one-hour, fam- Dig in and get your hands dirty, in- ily-friendly concert. This one-hour per- vestigate and classify plants, learn how formance includes a Q & A session with a carnivorous plant eats, and explore Stroll and a haircut the musicians. Doors open 15 minutes the meadow. before the performance; no reserved Get up and go!: Kaiser Park, Nep- Come on down for a fun car- more. seating is available. Visit bargemusic.org tune Avenue and Bayview Avenue; nival and help LuLu’s Cuts and Plus, you can also enjoy Fifth for more! www.cityparksfoundation.org/sports/ Toys celebrate 15 years of snip- Avenue’s Summer Stroll, happen- Magic at Coney: Sideshows by the kids-fitness; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1 ping on Aug. 13. ing the same day, where there Seashore, 1208 Surf Ave. between W. pm to 4 pm, Now – Fri, Aug. 19; Free. The neighborhood combina- will be a bounce house, carousel, 12th Street and Stillwell Avenue; (718) Quests program: Prospect Park tion hairstylist and toy store and more. 372–5159; www.coneyisland.com; Zoo, 450 Flatbush Ave. at Ocean Av- is hitting a milestone anniver- Fifteenth anniversary carnival Sundays, noon, Now – Sun, Sept. 4; enue; (718) 399–7339; www.prospect- sary of serving the Park Slope on Aug. 13 from 5 to 8 pm; free. $10 ($5 kids). parkzoo.com/quests; Wednesdays – community with a block party LuLu’s Cuts & Toys (48 Fifth Ave. A magical variety show featuring il- Sundays, 11 am to 3 pm, Now – Mon, lusionists, escape artists, mentalists, and between Bergen and Dean streets, Sept. 5; Free with zoo admission. featuring face painting, carnival close-up magicians. games, rides, cotton candy, and www.luluskidscuts.nyc). Visitors learn about wildlife in scav- Basketball Clinic: Brooklyn Bridge enger hunt format and embark on a Park Pier 2, Pier 2 walkway; www. nature adventure to identify local birds, brooklynbridgepark.org/events/big- discover ways to reduce pollution, learn dance-based workout. No partner or nolimitbeulah.org; Saturdays, 11 am; and-little-skills-academy-basketball- about ocean and other aquatic habitats, prior experience required. For older donation. clinics; Sundays, Noon to 2 pm, Now – and more. teens. Sabbath school for children. Sun, Aug. 28; Free. Touch Tank: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- Basketball Clinic: Brooklyn Bridge Pop-Up fishing: Prospect Park Improve basic basketball skills with seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Park Pier 2, Pier 2 walkway; www. Audubon Center, enter park at Lincoln the Big and Little Skills Academy. Each Avenue; (718) 735–4400; www.brook- brooklynbridgepark.org/events/big- Road and Ocean Avenue; (718) 287– clinic will include either yoga to en- lynkids.org; Wednesdays, Saturdays and-little-skills-academy-basketball- 3400; www.prospectpark.org/audu- hance flexibility or flag football for agil- and Sundays, 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm, clinics; Thursdays, Noon to 2 pm, Now bon; Saturdays and Sundays, Noon to 6 ity training. Join Big and Little Skills Now – Wed, Aug. 31; Free with mu- – Thurs, Aug. 25; Free. pm, Mon, Aug. 1 – Wed, Aug. 31; Free. Academy for dynamic basketball clinics seum admission. Improve basic basketball skills with Join Alliance educators to learn about for ages 8 to 17. Meet and touch real, live sea crea- the Big and Little Skills Academy. Each tures like starfish and sea urchins. ecology under the water and in the air! Free Family Day at Wyckoff clinic will include either yoga to en- “The Wizard of Oz”: Puppetworks, Farmhouse: Wyckoff House Mu- Tinybop Kid’s Playgroup: Tinybop hance flexibility or flag football for agil- 338 Sixth Ave. at Fourth Street; (718) seum, 5816 Clarendon Rd. at E. 59th Inc, 540 Atlantic Ave. between Third ity training. Join Big and Little Skills 965–3391; www.puppetworks.org; Street; (718) 629–5400; Saturday, Aug. and Fourth avenues; (516) 500–1967; Academy for dynamic basketball clinics Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 pm and 20, 1 pm; Free. [email protected]; tinybop. for ages 8 to 17. Wyckoff Farmhouse hosts a day of com; Wednesdays, 4–5 pm, Now – 2:30 pm, Now – Sun, Aug. 21; $9 ($10 Friday Night Fireworks!: Luna adults: $8 for group rates). kid-friendly tours, hands-on activities, Wed, Aug. 17; Free. scavenger hunts, and more. Special ac- Park, W. 10th Street and the Board- Artistic director Nicolas Coppola has Kids will get the chance to play with tivities for kids younger than 10 before walk; lunaparknyc.com; Fridays, 9:30 adapted the story to the marionette new educational apps and enjoy hands- 2 pm. on science activities, led by staff from pm, Now – Sat, Aug. 27; Free rides, stage, featuring an original Country- the app-making creative studio. Light entertainment extra. Western score for the famous Oz char- Further Afield acters to sing and dance to. Great for snacks will be provided. When the sun goes down, the lights SeaGlass Carousel: SeaGlass Car- come up with fireworks — painting the children 4 years and older. African Dance: Target Brooklyn ousel, The Battery, Battery Park Under- skyline with vivid color seen from miles Community Garden, 933 Bedford Ave. Bird Watching: North end of Espla- pass, Manhattan; www.thebattery.org; away in the darkest of nights. at Dekalb Avenue; (212) 333–2552; nade, East Drive and Ocean Avenue; Daily, 10 am to 10 pm; Now – Sat, Aug. www.nycgovparks.org; Wednesdays, Religious services: No Limit Beu- www.nycgovparks.org; Saturdays and 20; $5 per ride. 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, Now – Wed, Aug. lah Sabbath Pentecostal Church, 5417 Sundays, 1 to 2 pm and 3 to 4 pm, A beautiful, huge crystal nautilus 24; Free. Avenue N between E. 54th and E. Now – Tues, Aug. 30; Free. shell with 30 grand luminescent fish Each session will feature an African 55th streets; (718)241–8100; www. Families with children 15 and younger takes riders on an aquatic journey. August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 49 WOMEN

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August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 51

Check it out on nyparenting.com Education How to support your child in school

dear teacher, The new school year has started. Dear Teacher In the past, I have always been Peggy gisler and involved in my children’s educa- Marge eberts tion by communicating with their teachers, attending parent-teacher meetings, being a room mother, going to school events, visiting their classrooms, and so on. Is there anything else parents should do to be involved in their children’s education?

dear parent, You are being an involved parent. You know what is happening at your children’s schools and have the information to have meaningful conversations with them about what is going on at their schools. There is one more thing about being involved in children’s educa- teaching to the common lecting appropriate apps for her? tion. Parents need to be involved at core standards home as well as at school. dear teacher, dear parent, They can do so much at home to So many people I know are upset It can be a daunting task to find ensure their children’s success in about Common Core. They think appropriate educational apps for school. On the non-academic side, every teacher will now be forced to preschoolers. If your child is just they can teach them patience, re- teach in the same way. Is this true? being introduced to reading, search sponsibility, and respect for others for apps that have a limited amount — all traits that will enhance their dear parent, of text, quality narration, as well as education. That is definitely a misconception. word games to reinforce the learn- Another area in which parents Teachers will continue to devise their ing of new words. One very help- should be involved with their chil- own lesson plans and adjust the cur- ful website with well-vetted apps is dren’s education, especially in the riculum to the individual need of stu- commonsensemedia.org. early grades, is their homework. dents in their classes. The standards Your preschooler might enjoy our This will give them an opportunity do establish what students need to Skinny Books – Word Family Readers to expand the curriculum through learn as Common Core is a clear set available in the App Store. They have related learning activities at home of shared goals and expectations for amusing rhyming word stories, like even if it is just a dinner table con- what knowledge and skills will help “Mox the Ox,” “The Cub in the Tub,” versation. students succeed, but they do not and “The Crab Who Ran Away.” Then Finally, it definitely helps if par- dictate how teachers should teach. there are fun games to play with the ents read daily to their children. Instead, schools and teachers will words they have learned to read. They should also go beyond read- decide how best to help students Plus, there is accompanying narra- ing with younger children to ask reach the standards. tion so they can read these books questions about what is happening without adult help. And this app will in the story. With older children Finding reading apps truly put young children on the road in grades five and beyond, discus- for preschoolers to reading as they will learn more sions can include who the author is dear teacher, than 200 rhyming words and 36 of and the author’s point of view. There are times when we are wait- the most basic sight words. Finally, let your children see that ing on the sidelines of a soccer game Parents should send questions and you are excited about what they are or at a doctor’s office that I would comments to dearteacher@dearteacher. learning. This will make them even like to have my preschooler be able com or ask them on the columnists’ web- more eager to learn and to share to pick up some reading skills on site at www.dearteacher.com. what they are learning with you. my cellphone rather than just play © Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2016. This is true at any grade level. games. What should I look for in se- Distributed by King Features Syndicate

52 brooklyn Family • August 2016 Education How to support An online your child in school minefield dear teacher, By Lisa Beach The new school year has started. How to help Dear Teacher In the past, I have always been hink before you post. Peggy gisler and involved in my children’s educa- your kids, It se e m s l i ke com mon se n se , Marge eberts tion by communicating with their T but a lot of kids, tweens, and teachers, attending parent-teacher teens just aren’t heeding this advice meetings, being a room mother, tweens, and when they use social media — and going to school events, visiting are getting themselves into trouble their classrooms, and so on. Is in the process. there anything else parents should teens safely Just ask attorney James Muel- do to be involved in their children’s ler, a managing partner with Verner education? navigate Brumley McCurley Mueller Parker, a Dallas-based family law firm. dear parent, “Some of the things kids put on- You are being an involved par- social media line [are] going to affect them, be- tional Behavior and Health ent. You know what is happening at cause it doesn’t go away,” says Muel- Therapist, agrees. your children’s schools and have ler. “It will follow them in life.” “In laying down the the information to have meaning- As a family lawyer, Mueller sees rules, especially for ful conversations with them about this at first hand. younger kids, it’s im- what is going on at their schools. “In one custody hearing, a daugh- portant to give kids There is one more thing about ter gave the judge all these reasons the logic behind the being involved in children’s educa- teaching to the common lecting appropriate apps for her? why she didn’t want to live with rule and provide ex- tion. Parents need to be involved at core standards mom. We found out that, when we amples that dem- home as well as at school. dear teacher, dear parent, checked the girl’s Instagram ac- onstrate the bad things that could your action, you can’t control other They can do so much at home to So many people I know are upset It can be a daunting task to find count, she didn’t want to live with happen,” says Dr. Gluckman, who people’s actions.” ensure their children’s success in about Common Core. They think appropriate educational apps for mom, because dad allowed her to advises a collaborative approach, Realize what you post is perma- school. On the non-academic side, every teacher will now be forced to preschoolers. If your child is just smoke marijuana and drink while at asking kids what kind of rules they nent — even if you later delete it. they can teach them patience, re- teach in the same way. Is this true? being introduced to reading, search dad’s house,” recalls Mueller. “The could live with and then negotiate. Once you hit send, you create a per- sponsibility, and respect for others for apps that have a limited amount next thing you know, she’s kicked off “When you’re a nurturing — rather manent cyber-record of your words — all traits that will enhance their dear parent, of text, quality narration, as well as her sports team, the judge has now than authoritative — parent, you’re and images delivered via status up- education. That is definitely a misconception. word games to reinforce the learn- seen all of this, and dad is in trouble. educating and empowering kids, dates or news feeds. Someone might Another area in which parents Teachers will continue to devise their ing of new words. One very help- The sad part is it all came from an which will help them learn to think have already saved or shared your should be involved with their chil- own lesson plans and adjust the cur- ful website with well-vetted apps is Instagram post.” things through themselves.” post by the time you delete it from dren’s education, especially in the riculum to the individual need of stu- commonsensemedia.org. Kids need to realize that these So how can kids, tweens, and your account. early grades, is their homework. dents in their classes. The standards Your preschooler might enjoy our days, everyone looks at their social teens engage online in a more re- Be aware that your online activ- This will give them an opportunity do establish what students need to Skinny Books – Word Family Readers media activity, including teachers, sponsible way? Here are some tips: ity affects your reputation. When to expand the curriculum through learn as Common Core is a clear set available in the App Store. They have coaches, lawyers, colleges, scholar- Think before you post. If you’d you realize that other people be- related learning activities at home of shared goals and expectations for amusing rhyming word stories, like ship committees, and potential em- be embarrassed to show what you’re sides your friends are checking out even if it is just a dinner table con- what knowledge and skills will help “Mox the Ox,” “The Cub in the Tub,” ployers. Stories abound in the media going to post to your grandmother, your social media accounts, you’re versation. students succeed, but they do not and “The Crab Who Ran Away.” Then about athletes getting kicked off then don’t post it. If you’d be compro- more likely to do the right thing Finally, it definitely helps if par- dictate how teachers should teach. there are fun games to play with the teams, students losing their scholar- mising your safety (such as posting online. ents read daily to their children. Instead, schools and teachers will words they have learned to read. ships, and kids getting arrested for where you’ll be at a certain time or With kids of all ages texting, ex- They should also go beyond read- decide how best to help students Plus, there is accompanying narra- some of their questionable antics that you’re home alone), then don’t ploring social media, and posting ing with younger children to ask reach the standards. tion so they can read these books that got posted on social media. post it. If you’d be hurting or embar- photos, parents can use these tips to questions about what is happening without adult help. And this app will “When any potential employee rassing someone else, then don’t help them navigate the use of social in the story. With older children Finding reading apps truly put young children on the road sends me a resume, the first thing I post it. media in a safe, responsible way. in grades five and beyond, discus- for preschoolers to reading as they will learn more do is pull any social media accounts assume what you post isn’t pri- Lisa Beach is a freelance writer whose sions can include who the author is dear teacher, than 200 rhyming words and 36 of that I can,” points out Mueller. “You vate — even if you send a private work has been published in dozens of and the author’s point of view. There are times when we are wait- the most basic sight words. can find out an unbelievable amount message. Mueller points out that just print and online publications, including Finally, let your children see that ing on the sidelines of a soccer game Parents should send questions and of information.” because you intended something to Brain, Child, Parents, Scary Mommy, you are excited about what they are or at a doctor’s office that I would comments to dearteacher@dearteacher. Mueller advises that parents, as be private when you sent it, doesn’t Good Life Family, Calgary’s Child, and learning. This will make them even like to have my preschooler be able com or ask them on the columnists’ web- the first line of defense, need to play necessarily mean the other person Orlando Family. Check out her writer’s more eager to learn and to share to pick up some reading skills on site at www.dearteacher.com. an active role in their kids’ online understands (or wants to adhere to) website at www.LisaBeachWrites.com what they are learning with you. my cellphone rather than just play © Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2016. lives by providing age-appropriate your intentions of keeping it private. and visit her humor blog at www.Twee- This is true at any grade level. games. What should I look for in se- Distributed by King Features Syndicate limits. Dr. Sandy Gluckman, a Func- As he says, “You can only control niorMoments.com.

August 2016 • Brooklyn Family 53 New & Noteworthy By Lisa J. Curtis Designing with nature The Student Gel Printing Plate ing for design inspiration indoors, Kit from Gelli Arts is a versatile you can use bubble wrap, cotton set of tools that can be used out- swabs, or even a cardboard tube to side and can easily incorporate apply or take away paint. (The Gelli items such as leaves and feathers Arts blog has inspirational videos into monoprint designs. Artists of that we enjoyed watching over and all ages can use the 5-inch-square over again.) “gelli” printing pad, brayer, and Changing colors on the flexible two 5-inch-square geometric sten- printing square — and clean up — cils over and over again to make is a breeze: use water or hand sani- frame-worthy prints, gift wrap, tizer and wipe with a paper towel, or decorative papers. (And these or just use baby wipes. With this tools can be used to print on fab- printing plate kit, kids can begin ric, too.) making monoprints in minutes, Parents supply the acrylic paint, but there is a seemingly infinite paper, and encouragement to wee number of possible tool and color artists to find items from the yard combinations to make for hours of or park that could be used to make enjoyment. interesting patterns in the paint. Student Gel Printing Plate Kit by Gelli If it is a rainy day, and you’re look- Arts, $24.99, www.gelliarts.com. Bring da Noize All ‘Manor’ of fun For a lighthearted and (discreetly) educa- For a family game night that is sure to be tional soundtrack on your next family road remembered, check out ThinkFun’s Escape the trip, look no further than “Phineas McBoof Room: Mystery at the Stargazer’s Manor, Nicholas Crashes the Symphony” — the latest musical Cravotta and Rebecca Bleau’s tabletop version of from Doctor Noize. the popular, real-life escape-the-room events. Composer-performer Cory Cullinan, aka Recommended for ages 10 and up, it challenges Doctor Noize, has recruited an impressive ros- players to travel back to 1869 and visit the mansion ter of artists to record this spirited two-act, two of a reclusive astronomer to get to the bottom of the CD set. The City of strange sights, sounds, and smells emanating from Prague Philhar- within. When your band of sleuths enters the manor, monic Orchestra, you will be “locked” in a room, and that’s when the under the baton clock starts on the fun of opening envelopes to re- of Kyle Pickett, veal clues to solve puzzles that beget more clues gives a soaring Savor memories until your family — hopefully — escapes. per for ma nce, You can mine culinary gold at summer The game night can be and they’re more potluck dinners with Valerie McKeehan’s as elaborate as you’d like; than matched wire-bound Keepsake Kitchen Diary, where the website offers tips on by Grammy-gar- family cooks can log in nearly 200 of their how to evoke a mood with nering opera favorite recipes, as well as their memories costume accessories and stars Nathan of each dish. period music. Gunn and Isabel Leonard. The Metropolitan Write in when you first tried the dish, the Escape the Room: Mystery Opera’s John McVeigh, in the role of Mama’s occasions when it has been enjoyed, and the at the Stargazer’s Manor by Boy, pleads for courage in the adorable “I name of the person who likes it the best. ThinkFun, $21.99, www.tar- Could Be Someone.” The recipes are conveniently sorted under get.com. Cullinan, a former high- school music teacher, tabs designating type (starters, soups and sal- has sprinkled tantalizing tidbits about orches- ads, main courses, side dishes, desserts, and tration, instrumentation, and music history miscellaneous). throughout his lively story. “Phineas McBoof” And finally, the pretty 9-by-10-inch cook- is recommended for all ages, but those listen- book includes 12 tear-out recipe cards, so you ers ranging from age 8 to 13 especially appreci- can share your beloved recipes with the next ate the witty banter. Bravo, Doctor Noize! generation, too. Grandma would approve. “Phineas McBoof Crashes the Symphony” two The Keepsake Kitchen Diary by Lily & Val, CD set by Doctor Noize, $19.99, www.cdbaby.com. $45.99, www.lilyandval.com.

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

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

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