EDUCATIONAugust 2010 BRONX/RIVERDALE FALLFREE
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Beyond the Beach One family’s cruise PlanningPlanning aheadahead 27 ways to manage the school year Success! Our columnist meets her weight-loss goal Where to go in AUGUST? Check out our Going Places
BRONX Family August 2010 Letter from the publisher t’s August already. Isn’t it amazing how I the summer weeks whizz by? July was a hot month and seemed more like August, which makes me wonder what August will be like. The days are getting shorter, although there’s still plenty of light at the end of the day to eat outdoors, have dinner on the beach, or barbeque on the grill. My family has been to the beach quite fre- Features columns quently this summer and I don’t mind telling 2 Newbie Dad you that my beach of choice — and the one 6 Back-to-school checklist By Brian Kantz that’s most accessible and inviting — has been, How to get your A in organization this fall and still is, the clean and lovely beach/board- By Carol Brzozowski 4 Good Sense Eating walk at Long Beach. 8 Happy, minus 15 pounds by Christine M. Palumbo, RD Did I mention that we don’t live in Long After six months, Kathy achieves her diet goal Beach and that every summer we buy a family By Kathy Sena 10 Family Health beach pass? I’m certain there are local people By Ivan Hand, MD, FAAP who think we are a hibernating family that 12 Cruise control lives out there but only appears in the warmer Disney boats are fun for the whole family 30 It Figures months. By Allison Plitt School snippets “So nice to see you. How was your winter?” They ask us every year. 10 College road trip 32 New & Noteworthy I say nothing and just enjoy all the friendli- Hit the road before your senior applies The hottest new products ness that I can find in life. I mean, we’re talking By Risa C. Doherty 30 years of beaching at Long Beach. calendAr of events We took our family vacation in June but I’m 14 The Bronx is open! pretty certain that a lot of families are still Lots of family activities at Crotona Park 27 Going Places looking forward to time off together. Maybe By Tiziana Rinaldi Take the family out and find out what’s the kids have been at camp and you’re waiting going on in your town till the end of summer to do a family drive or a 16 Visit the Bronx River stay-cation? Maybe you have a new college stu- Discover the amazing river next door special section dent who is home with you for the last weeks By Tiziana Rinaldi before beginning campus life? 20 Education Directory Whatever you do or wherever you go, enjoy the end of summer and the good foods that are coming into season now, like fresh Long Island corn and tomatoes. Visit your local farmer’s Staff contact information market or stand and see those wonderful Publisher: Clifford Luster ADVERTISING SALES Address green beans, cucumbers, peaches, blueber- 718 260-2587 Family Publications New York/CNG ries and blackberries that are grown here, and publisher/Managing editor: [email protected] or 1 MetroTech Center North Susan Weiss help support your family’s good health and our [email protected] 10th Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201 local farmers at the same time. What a great Editor: Vince DiMiceli Circulation partnership that is! Creative Director: Leah Mitch 718 260-8336 www.webfamilyny.com [email protected] Happy August! Thanks for reading! Art Director: On Man Tse Editorial Advertising Sales: 718 260-4551 Sharon Noble, Nancy Swiezy, [email protected] Richard Kramer Brooklyn Family, Queens Family, Bronx/Riverdale Family, BRONX Family and SPECIAL ASSISTANT: Staten Island Family are published monthly. Copyright©2010. No part of our Susan Weiss-Voskidis, Publisher Tina Felicetti contents may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. August 2010 • BRONX Family 1 Parenting Super-sized summer Kids today have the coolest toys for hot days!
aybe the heat is getting blanket at the beach, on your new cles? Is it really necessary for 4-year- to me. Or, maybe I’ve white t-shirt, everywhere. Other than old Johnny to be hogging the side- M watched one too many “60 taking a swig from the garden hose, walk in his mini-Hummer? Well, at Minutes” commentaries by that fa- Kool-Aid was your only option. least his vehicle doesn’t guzzle gas, mous curmudgeon, Andy Rooney. And what flavor was Kool-Aid? It but he should still need a license to Newbie DaD Or, maybe it’s the fact that some kid was red. There was only one flavor of drive that thing. I’ve seen more than Brian KanTz at the playground just called me an Kool-Aid that I knew of: red Kool-Aid. a few innocent flowers buried under “old dude.” (37 is not old, kid! You Maybe Kool-Aid did offer its drink the wheels of Johnny’s wildly navi- may not believe that now, but you’ll mix in other flavors back then, but gated bad-boy machine. see! You’ll see!) Whatever it is, I have we were never aware of it. Back when we were kids, we tooled a rock in my shoe this summer. Do you know how many flavors of up and down the streets all summer So, what’s wrong? What’s my juice and juice-like beverages are on long on our Big Wheels and banana- beef? Well, I’m just wondering, who the market today? About 150,000. So, seat bicycles with sissy bars. Pedal went and super-sized summer for when someone at a picnic asks me power, baby. If you wanted to visit a today’s kids? Just about if I would like a strawberry orange friend who lived down the block, you pomegranate or a Pacific mango sun- either pedaled or hoofed it on your splash, I usually ask, “Do you have own two feet. You wouldn’t have any red?” even imagined taking your battery- Let’s move on to the Slip ‘n Slide. powered Lightning McQueen out for It was a true backyard necessity a spin. on a hot summer day, especially OK, I’m almost done. Here’s one once the three-foot-round plastic more favorite summer activity: going pool just wouldn’t comfort- to the neighborhood playground. ably accommodate This is my two sons’ favorite thing my three gangly to do. They call it going to “swings brothers and I and slides.” Back in my childhood, anymore. The that’s exactly what it was. We went original Slip ‘n Slide to a playground that had swings and featured some pretty one slide. All of the equipment was basic engineering: a fashioned out of industrial-grade long plastic steel. You sat on a flat steel seat on sheet with an the swing and you climbed up steel opening for steps to get to the top of the tall steel the garden hose. slide. That steel was a molten 220-de- Turn the spigot grees in the hot sun. on and away you Today’s playgrounds? Oh… my… go, slipping the gosh. They are unbelievable! Instead hot summer day of simple swings and slides, these are away under the monstrous “play structures.” Spiral soft drizzle of cold slides, rock-climbing walls, ziplines, water. You just had to make sure fireman’s poles and on and on! All that no large sticks, giant in cool-to-the-touch molded plastic. every great thing I re- rocks or neighborhood dogs It’s madness, I tell you! And, I must member from the summers of my were underneath the plastic, admit, it’s all so much darn fun! childhood still exists, but it has all lest you impale yourself, break a shin So, go ahead, kids, enjoy your been super-sized, mega-hyped and or get bitten. super-sized summer! Have a grand full-throttled. It’s like summer on Today’s Slip ‘n Slides? Whoa-ho- old time. Just know that in another steroids. I notice this all the time as I ho. Fancy. You’ve got gushing water- 30 years, your stuff will seem pretty play with my kids. Do you? falls, cushy inflatable parts, hydro- old school, too, and you’ll be left Let me give you a quick example. planers, boogie boarders, triple rac- to write a nostalgic (and, yes, com- The taste of summer from your child- ers, wave riders, whitewater blasters, pletely jealous) column for the ben- hood — quick, what was it? If you the whole nine yards. It’s apparently efit of your peers. said Kool-Aid, you would be correct, less about slippin’ and slidin’ and Brian Kantz nearly broke his collar- my friend. A pitcher of Kool-Aid was more about looking good. bone diving on a Slip ‘n Slide the other everywhere, it seemed. In the fridge And speaking of fancy, what is day. Totally worth it. Visit Brian online at home, in the fridge at your friends’ with all of the kids tooling up and at www.briankantz.com or drop him a houses, on the picnic table, on the down the streets in motorized vehi- note at [email protected].
2 BRONX Family • August 2010
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August 2010 • BRONX Family 3 HealtHy eating Shake off the salt any of us have had a long love affair with salt, but Sodium shockers M that may be about to food servIng sIze sodIum (mg) change. Earlier this year, the In- stitute of Medicine urged the U.S. French bread 1 slice 416 government to gradually reduce the Rice pilaf, mix, prepared 1 cup 780 maximum amount of sodium that Lite soy sauce 1 tbsp 550 Good sense food companies and restaurants can add to foods. Panera turkey artichoke Hot Panini 1 2,340 eatinG Houlihan’s thai Chile style Chicken Wing appetizer 1 4,979 Christine M. PaluMbo, rD Salt versus sodium Although both terms are often Hebrew national quarter-pound franks 1 frank 1,070 used interchangeably, there is a dif- Cottage cheese 1 cup 820 ference between salt and sodium. Salt is made up of sodium oscar Mayer Lunchable (ham, cheese crackers) 1 1,060 chloride: 60 percent California Pizza Kitchen Kid’s Cheeseburger Pizza 1 1,680 is sodium, the rest, chloride. According not necessarily develop hyperten- “Hypertension” found that the more to the Centers for sion — but their long-term mortality salty food children ate, the more Disease Control rate is just as high as those who do. sugary sodas they drank to wash it and Prevention, down. the average Ameri- Driven by It’s not easy for food companies can ingests about convenience to simply drop the salt due to the 3,400 milligrams a Busy family lives often necessi- many roles it plays. For example, day. The latest health tate taking dietary shortcuts that bread dough depends on sodium organization recommen- are high in sodium — frozen meats, chloride and sodium bicarbonate in dations range from 1,500 entrees and pizzas; rice and soup order to rise. milligrams to 2,400 milli- mixes; canned fish and soup; sea- Here are some tips to reduce the grams. Most nutrition ex- soning mixes and prepared spa- sodium in your family’s diet: perts estimate that about ghetti sauce. Hurrying in and out of 1. Prepare as much from scratch 75 percent come from pro- drive-thrus, and especially dining as possible. Eat fresh vegetables, cessed food. out at restaurants, provide another plain meats and grains (such as rice) huge dose. Some restaurant entrees that you season yourself. Salt sensitivity have 2,000 milligrams or more in 2. Cook without salt, but add just Not all medical doctors one order. a little at the table. Surprisingly, this agree that everyone needs to Do you need to be concerned can allow you to get by with less be- limit salt. But, there is grow- about how much sodium your child cause your tongue gets a direct “hit” ing evidence that a significant ingests? Yes. A taste for salt is ac- from the salt crystals. number of people have a con- quired, and salt-loving children grow 3. Add plenty of herbs and spices. dition called salt sensitivity, an up to be adults who eat a salty diet. Also, freshly squeezed lemon or lime abnormal increase in blood pres- A 2001 report said that by ages 7-9, juice and red wine or balsamic vine- sure in response to increases in di- 68 percent of children ate too much gar add a lot of flavor with negligible etary sodium. According to research sodium. And, salty foods are often sodium. performed by Myron H. Weinberger, high in fat and calories. Two years 4. Choose restaurant entrees that MD, certain salt-sensitive people do ago, a study published in the journal come without sauces and gravies. And by eating a half portion, not only will you save calories, you’ll save AlternAte prep method: Grill sodium, too. Herbed Pork Chops chops, over direct heat, turning once, 5. When reading food labels, pay to medium doneness or until the attention to portion size. A can of Makes 4 servings. 4 bone-in pork chops, 1/2-inch thick internal temperature reaches 155 soup may be two (or two-and-a-half) Prep time: 5 minutes (about 1 1/2 pounds), trimmed degrees Fahrenheit, about 3 to 4 servings, so multiply milligrams of Cook time: 8 minutes 2 tablespoons oil minutes per side. sodium by that factor. IngredIents InstructIons: sprinkle seasoning nutrItIon fActs: 253 calories, 17 Christine M. Palumbo, RD, is a Chi- 1 tablespoon McCormick® Perfect evenly over both sides of pork chops. grams fat, 24 grams protein, 1 gram cago area nutritionist who doesn’t mind Pinch® salt-Free savory all Purpose Heat oil in large skillet on medium carbohydrate, 78 milligrams cholesterol, cutting back on salt, but leave her pop- seasoning heat. add pork chops; cook 4 minutes 252 milligrams sodium, 0 gram fiber corn alone. Send your questions and col- ½ teaspoon salt per side or until desired doneness. Recipe courtesy of McCormick.com. umn ideas to her at Chris@ChristinePal- umbo.com or (630) 369-8495.
4 BRONX Family • August 2010 Providing Therapy Services School of Music Free To Children & Families first lesson “Where Learning Is Fun!” & Belle consultation Occupational Therapy (Sensory Integration & Writing w/o Tears) Physical Therapy • Speech Therapy Feeding Therapy • Nutritional Services SPECIAlIzIng In PIAno, KEYboARdS And voICE Special Education • Social Work Psychology
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170 West. 233rd St. (Off Broadway) Bronx, NY 10463 Tel: 718.549.PLAY (7529) Fax: 718.543.7528 www.uptownsportscomplex.com [email protected] Heilbrunn Music scHool Private and GrouP Classes For aGes 4 and uP Piano • Guitar • Voice • Violin and other instruments Activities Include: Pre-sCHool GrouP MusiC For aGes 18 MontHs – 4 Years • Gymnastics • Hip-Hop Dance Dance scHool Classes for Pre-Schoolers, Children, Teens • Baseball • Soccer and Adults KIDS AGES 5–12 • Basketball Ballet * Tap * Jazz * Hip Hop * Flamenco Monday-Friday • Homework Help * Latin * Belly Dance and more 3:15pm –6:15pm • Snack SCHOLARSHIPS AND FREE LOANER INSTRUMENTS Call Now To AVAILABLE Register SIGN UP FOR CLASS FALL TODAY! End-of-Summer Special! Register by August 31st and receive PROGRAMS 10% off any group music or dance class. SEPTEMBER – JAnUARy Fall Group Music and Dance Classes begin the week of September 20. GymnAstIcs DAncE Join Us! We are located at Ages 3-UP 20 weeks 990 Pelham Parkway South Ballet 20 weeks and can be reached by subway and bus. Mom & TOT 10 weeks ages 2–12 (#5 Morris Park Station; #2 Pelham Parkway Station; #12 Bus) BAsEBALL Hip Hop 15 weeks ages 6–15 For further information, please call PEE WEE & JR’s 15 weeks (718) 792-1800 ext. 235 ages 3–12 www.bronxhouse.org
August 2010 • BRONX Family 5 Education Back-to-school checklist By Carol Brzozowski week you want to do this on their How to get train your chil- own). Pack their hen I sent my firstborn off dren to start lunchbox with your A in to school 10 years ago, I waking up non-perishables W was ill-prepared for the early again and add the items realities of his new life. I thought I’d and getting that require an ice organization just send him off with a tearful good- back into rou- pack in the morn- bye, and that would be that. tines. It’s harder ing. Make sure the Boy, was I wrong. for the kids to go kids put the ice pack this fall I completely underestimated how back to school if back into the freezer managing my son’s (and later, his they are on a trip when they get home brother’s) school life would consume right before school from school and such a chunk of my time. starts. empty the wrappers Each day, I had to review a list • Avoid the mistake of buying and food bits out of of questions. Is today the day they unnecessary school supplies by the lunchbox to clean it take in money for lunch from the checking with your child’s school for the next day. cafeteria or pack a lunch? What’s to determine what is needed. Con- • B u y extra ice packs for lunch the deadline for filling out the pa- sider saving money by buying boxes. In a pinch, you can pack a perwork and getting the money supplies in bulk and splitting plastic storage bag with ice cubes. for the field trip? What time do I the cost with a friend whose Ask your child to brainstorm about have to pick up my son from child needs the same sup- what healthy food they’d like for the after-school activ- plies. There are usually lunches. ity? Buy what for the a few items you’ll al- • K e e p a day’s worth of extra lunch science fair?! ways need on hand money stashed in the backpack for But, through the throughout the those times when your child forgets years — and now with year — lined paper money. both sons in high school — and pencils — so • M a ke sure your child’s vaccina- I’ve learned a lot through stock up when they tions are up to date. This is often my own experience and are on sale. required not only for school, but for that of other seasoned • C e l l phones have participation in sports and scouting. parents who taught me become a common school If you are applying for exemptions, the key to surviving the supply, though many get your paperwork organized. school years: “Work smarter, schools are limiting • I f your child commutes by car not harder.” their use during the or bus, carry snacks and cold water Here are some tips school day. They are use- in the car or pack extra in the back- I’ve gathered that ful in keeping in touch on important pack for bus trips, if permitted. You should help you glide matters — my sons call or text dur- may want to freeze bottles of water; through the next four se- ing lunch to let me know they need they’ll thaw out and provide cold re- mesters: something for the following day or freshment by the end of the day. • O r g a n i z e d parents that a club meeting has • I f you’re the type of parent who are always seen with been canceled. If you’re likes to give teachers and bus driv- their organizers. Whether not keen on buying ers gifts for holidays or at the end you use electronics or paper, them their own cell of the year, consider buying items maintain an organizer in phone, consider a as you see them and can afford which you keep all of your ap- pre-paid phone. them, packing them away pointments and phone num- Make sure you in the closet until needed, bers with you at all times. know the phone rather than making a mad Record dates as soon as carrier’s costs — my rush for gifts at the last you’re made aware of them. sons once racked up a minute. And make sure to have im- few $100 through unnec- • Most school dis- portant phone numbers, like your essary text messaging tricts now have Inter- child’s school, the bus company’s and Internet access. net sites that allow you to and those of child’s friends’ parents, • O r g a n i z e everything see your child’s academic available in a pinch. your child needs to take progress in real time. I can • Avoid vacations that run up into to school the night be- set up my district’s site to the week before school. That’s the fore (older children can send me e-mails every time
6 BRONX Family • August 2010 Back-to-school checklist my sons’ grades dip below a certain school year is having nutritious, deli- around test times — be level. It’s been an invaluable tool in cious meals ready by the end of the aware of how you have felt keeping abreast of their academic day. If you don’t already have one, when you were under pres- performances. invest in a slow cooker. It’s a parent’s sure at work. • J o i n the PTA or other school best friend in the kitchen. Consider • Fe e d your child well groups and prepare to get involved. making oatmeal the night before so and give him or her plenty of Nothing will keep you more con- your family wakes up to a hot-cooked support and opportunities for nected to your child and the school breakfast in the morning (this is es- rest. more than volunteer- pecially helpful if your family is on • G e t to know your child’s ing. Get to know different work-school shifts and friends and their families. Open your child’s teach- everyone needs to help them- your home to supervised parties ers. Take advan- selves). The slow cooker and sleep-overs. tages of opportuni- also can be used to pre- • Review your child’s home- ties, such as open pare dinner and cuts work with him or her. Ensure that houses, to know down on the end-of- homework comes before play, TV, what materials your the-day frustration of computers or video games, but child is using for what to do for dinner allow for some down time. learning. on those rush days. • S e t up a quiet place to study • I f your child is You can also ensure and provide reference materials. starting at a new school, healthy meals by making • Augment your child’s educa- visit the school with him or her large portions of food and tion with family field trips and once before the year begins so freezing it for later use. home projects. Schools are cutting he or she will feel more com- • M a ke sure school personnel back on the extras, so you may fortable on the first day. are aware of any special needs your have to take up the slack with art, • If your child is going to child may have. music and physical education. school for the first time, plan to have • M a ke sure you read at least a half • Celebrate your child’s accom- your child spend a lot of down time hour each day with your younger plishments. there after classes — perhaps at child. It’s also fun to read the same the playground — to help deal with books your middle or high school some of the transition stress he or child may be reading. she may feel. • Ta l k to your child about drugs, • L i n e up emergency contacts on alcohol, bullies, peer pressure, guns, your child’s behalf just in case the strangers and not picking up needles school has trouble getting in touch or allowing another child’s blood to with you. get near his or her cuts. Review sex • O r g a n i z e car pools whenever education with older children. possible, especially given the esca- • Tr y to be sensitive lating fuel costs that have hit every to your child’s feelings family budget. • O n e of the most challenging as- pects of the
August 2010 • BRONX Family 7 HealtH Happy, minus 15 pounds After six months of effort, Kathy achieves her diet goal
By Kathy Sena a lot more fiber. Krieger admits. • I hit the road — We’re all human. I’ll y secret goal has been walking the dog, walk- just plan to get back hanging in the back of my ing with friends, walk- on track. It’s impor- M closet — and I did it. After ing to the mailbox tant to anticipate the six months on my weight-loss plan, down the street — I challenges I’ll be fac- I’m wearing my favorite size-10 polka- tried to hoof it when- ing in the next six dot dress again. Woo hoo! POLKA ever I could. I even months or so, she DOTS. Not something I’ve been got busy on our long- says. Whether it’s wearing all that much for the past neglected treadmill, Weighing in a summer vacation, few years. But, here I watching “American Part 6 of a series back-to-school time am, 15.8 pounds thin- Idol” while I walked or the holidays that ner than I was when to the beat (had to get my Crystal are a particular challenge, “it’s im- I started. And it feels Bowersox fix). And I got creative and portant to have a ‘Plan B,’” she says. good. added a special desk to my treadmill “Stuff happens. You want to make I’m definitely no so that I could work on my laptop the best of the situation.” “skinny Minnie” in this while walking. No, I couldn’t exactly On summer vacation, for ex- photo, but I just had power walk while doing e-mail. But, ample, “Have that pina colada, but to share my polka-dot slow and steady wins the race, and enjoy hiking, going for long walks victory! When you’re a I got to where I could easily spend and experiencing where you are,” busy mom, getting into an hour on Facebook, e-mail, Twit- she says. On one family vacation, for super-skinny jeans ter, etc. while walking at a steady 1.5 example, she indulged in a pina co- isn’t always a realis- mph. Beats sitting on my behind in lada — and even an order of French tic goal. Just getting to front of a desk! fries. But she also enjoyed lots of a healthy weight and • Working out — and sharing tips fresh seafood and took classes at a feeling more energetic — with friends. Every woman needs local yoga studio. “It’s all about bal- feels pretty darned a walking buddy like my friend, Ellen. ance,” she says. good. I’ll take it. When we start hoofing it, the time So here’s my final weight-loss log: When I started speeds by. It doesn’t even feel like Weigh-in number one: 147.0 (my this plan, my size-12 work, because we’re having such a starting weight) clothes were feeling good time chatting. We also call each Weigh-in number two: 144.6 (lost pretty snug. But, now other to share diet suggestions and 2.4 pounds total) my size-10 pants are talk about our progress. Whether Weigh-in number three: 139.0 a bit in need of a belt you tackle weight loss as part of a (lost 8 pounds total) — so color me happy. group or with the support of one Weigh-in number four: 135.6 (lost Here are the things I special friend, I highly recommend 11.4 pounds total) have found to be most the buddy approach. Weigh-in number five: 134.4 (lost helpful in my quest for • Fo r the past six months, the book 12.6 pounds total) a thinner, healthier “Small Changes, Big Results” has been Weigh-in number six: 131.2 (lost body: my companion. I can’t recommend 15.8 pounds!) • I didn’t drink my this book highly enough. Registered Yep, it’s the end. And the beginning, calories. I had a glass Dietitian Ellie Krieger has offered as I keep swigging the water, making of wine now and then, such encouragement and so many healthier food choices and keeping but I gave up margari- practical suggestions. She makes you my girlfriends close by for support tas for six months, and feel as if you have your very own food (and entertainment!) as we all pull I plan to save them guru by your side, encouraging you on our walking shoes (or e-mail each for special occasions and sharing great tips. other from our treadmills) and head in the future — so I Some final advice from Krieger: It’s down the road together. Why not grab Kathy in her polka-dot dress. don’t start packing on fruity-cocktail important to find the right amount of your friends and join us? poundage. I drank mostly water with structure; to find a balance between Kathy Sena is a freelance journalist my meals, in addition to skim milk indulging and keeping track. It’s help- specializing in family health issues. Her or low-fat soy milk for breakfast. I ful to look at this time not as the end writing has appeared in the Los Angeles gave up the high-calorie orange juice of something but as a time to decide Times, Newsweek, Woman’s Day and and grape juice that I used to drink how to hold onto this new way of eat- many other publications. Visit her par- almost daily. When I wanted fruit, I ing and working out. enting blog, Parent Talk Today, at www. ate whole fruit for fewer calories and Yep, I’ll slip up from time to time, ParentTalkToday.com. 8 BRONX Family • August 2010 What’s your EQ? Are you an energy champ, an energy guzzler or an energy snoozer? To fi nd out, take the Con Edison Energy Quotient Quiz at conEd.com/EQ or at facebook.com/powerofgreen
Ceiling fans can help Which statement is true? you save energy:
A. microwaves use less than half the power of A. in the summer traditional ovens B. in the winter B. traditional ovens use less than half the power of
C. in both summer and winter microwaves
answer: A answer: answer: C answer:
What’s the correct way to handle A good rule of thumb the following safety issues? for air conditioner use is to:
A. report electric power problems A. open windows and online at conEd.com or by cell phone turn off A /C when it’s B. report power problems by calling 70° or cooler outside 1-800-75-CONED B. run your A /C for C. call 1-800-75-CONED if you see one hour then close steam on New York City streets windows to trap D. all of the above the cool air C. run your A /C and leave windows closed until cold fall weather returns
answer: D answer: answer: A answer: ©2010 Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc. Ad: Arnell Ad: Inc. York, ©2010 Consolidated Edison Company of New
August 2010 • BRONX Family 9 HealtH The importance of Family HealtH breastfeeding By Ivan Hand, Md, FaaP director of neonatology, Queens Hospital Center orld Breastfeeding Week is being celebrated from W Aug. 1 through Aug. 7. This year’s theme is the 10 steps to successful breastfeeding. Although the event is geared toward making breastfeeding a success in the hospi- tal, there is much that you can learn and do to support breastfeeding. Recommendations from the american academy of Pediatrics Breastfeeding is recognized as the best form of nutrition for infants from up to six months of age. Beyond six months, complemen- tary foods can be added, but breast- feeding should still be continued. Breastfeeding continues to benefit both mother and baby beyond 12 months of age, and in many popula- tions breastfeeding is continued to 3 years and beyond. The United States has set national goals in hopes that 75 percent of newborns will have been breastfed at the time of hospital discharge shown to increase brain growth and New York has passed a breast- and at least 50 percent of all new- visual acuity. feeding “Bill of Rights” that details borns will breastfeed until 6-months the rights of the mother to know of age. Maternal benefits her feeding options, have 24-hour Apart from the satisfaction of the access to her baby while in the hos- Infant benefits close bond with your baby, there pital and breastfeed at any location. Breast milk is completely natural are many maternal advantages to We all need to take these steps to and is ideal for nutrition in new- breastfeeding. support breastfeeding and healthier borns. It contains products of the Producing breast milk uses 500 families. mother’s immune system, including calories a day, and this caloric ex- proteins and special sugars (oligo- penditure can be helpful in shedding Celebrate saccharides), that help with diges- any additional weight gained during To celebrate the international tion and can prevent common ill- pregnancy. week, JAMS Jamaica Avenue Festival nesses and infections — such as ear There is also evidence that breast- will be all day on Saturday, Aug. 7, infections. feeding helps prevent diseases such with health and wellness demon- In newborn intensive care units as cancer, arthritis and diabetes. In strations, live music, hundreds of across the country, breast milk is general, the longer you breastfeed, multi-ethnic vendors and rides for the preferred nutrition for even the the more benefits you will obtain. kids. The Queens Hospital Center smallest premature infants. will have its own breastfeeding fair Breastfed infants are less likely Breastfeeding on Tuesday, Aug. 3. to develop allergic reactions, such support Queens Hospital Center breastfeeding as eczema and asthma, have lower It is very important for all of us fair [82-68 164th Street in Jamaica, (718) rates of obesity and diabetes as the to strongly support breastfeeding in 883-3000] Aug. 3, 10 am–2 pm. infant grows, and be smarter. our hospitals and community. If you JAMS Jamaica Avenue Festival (Ja- Several studies link intelligence are a woman of child-bearing age, maica Avenue from Parsons Boulevard with breastfeeding, and certain com- you should discuss the benefits of to 169th Street in Jamaica, no phone) pounds in breast milk have been breastfeeding with your doctor. Aug. 7, 11 am–6 pm.
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Cruise control By Allison Plitt the quietest and least crowded, with Disney boats a bar and jacuzzi (which appeared his year, my husband and I to be the only place on deck where are fun for the wanted to take our first family you actually could relax!). T vacation with our 4-year-old My daughter immediately jumped daughter, Chase. I was concerned into the kids’ pool and played in whole family about finding a vacation that would the water, but there were so many suit all of our desires for eight days other children, she didn’t have a lot — entertainment for our daughter, of space. This didn’t seem to bother activities for all of us to enjoy and, her since she was used to fighting most of all, babysitting services. A terry cloth elephant was one of many for space in crowded places, being After some research and feedback raised in Queens. As soon as my hus- “towelgami” creatures left on the bed. from other families, we decided on a band got into the water to play with week-long Disney Cruise through the her, a bunch of kids spotted him and Western Caribbean. the front of the line and instead, shouted “grown up!” Immediately, When we arrived at Port Canav- ran away in fear. My husband and I the children rushed toward him and eral, via a Disney bus from the ended up having our picture taken climbed on him, like a human jungle Orlando Airport, we checked-in with Minnie as our daughter sulked gym. My husband played along for while marveling at the size of our in the distance. about 10 minutes and then escaped cruise liner, the Disney Magic. As Once on the ship, the first thing to the jacuzzi, where he sat for an we were waiting to board, Minnie Chase wanted to do was swim in hour to recuperate. Mouse appeared in her sailor’s out- the pool. There were three different The food on the Disney Cruise fit. My daughter was awestruck with pools on the deck — the children’s was very good and the three restau- the adult-size version of her favor- pool, shaped like Mickey Mouse’s rants on board had different cuisine ite cartoon character and agreed head with a water slide; the fam- themes every day. We were seated to stand in line to get her picture ily pool, with outdoor movies and next to a nice family from Ohio, the taken with her. However, she was entertainment and always very Patels, a couple with a daughter a too afraid when we finally reached crowded; and the adults-only pool, year older than Chase. We were told
12 BRONX Family • August 2010 that we would be seated at the same table with the Patels every night for dinner — which concerned me because I was afraid it would end in disaster if we didn’t like each other. Luckily, we all hit it off. Both of the Patels’ parents were from India and had been to Jackson Heights many times to shop in the Indian stores and supermarkets and eat at the Indian restaurants. We spent a good amount of time exchanging stories of our experiences visiting the neighborhood. I had always heard that when you go on a cruise, you gain 10 pounds, so I was conscientious about por- tion control at the meals. My hus- band, on the other hand, is very active and can lose weight quickly. While the Patels and I were careful not to overindulge, my husband or- dered two entrees and two desserts every night. Needless to say, he became pretty well-known with the dining staff. As the cruise progressed, the Dis- would run back to the cabin to dren on the tour, my daughter had Broadway-quality evening shows ney characters made their rounds see what creature awaited us, but no interest in seeing the wildlife. All feature beloved Disney characters. at the dining tables. They also ap- mostly she was looking forward to she wanted to do was swim in the Mickey, Minnie and the gang also peared at different areas through- eating the chocolate mint. water and see how much sand she appear throughout the ship, ready to out the ship, and kids could be There were plenty of activities could put down her bathing suit. pose for photos. photographed with them and get to do to work off all the calories At the next port in Nassau, I de- their autographs. When my daugh- we were consuming. My husband cided to put our daughter in the ter met them, she calmed down and ran the jogging path on the ship’s babysitting service for half the day. finally posed for the camera. Girls of deck one morning. At the fitness The ship had an entire floor devoted all ages dressed up at night as the center there were yoga and exer- to children’s activities where there different princesses and the crew cise classes, but my husband and I were so many security measures to and staff usually addressed all the opted for the spa, where we worked keep track of all the kids, it would girls, whether or not they were in up a sweat sitting in the sauna for take nearly 10 minutes to just drop costume, as princesses. two hours. off or pick up your child. This was the third Disney Cruise Every time the ship landed in a At Castaway Cay it was sunny for the Patels and they gave us a port, we would sign up for an off- and cool and we got a chance to lot of good advice about things we shore excursion. Since my husband enjoy the beach and go bike riding. could do, like the evening theater took a day trip in Cozumel to go When I asked one of the staff mem- shows that were Broadway-quality scuba diving, I chose to take our bers on the island where I could productions. We joined them some daughter to Xcaret, an ecological throw away my trash, she took the nights, and I thought the shows swim park in Cancun. I had been to sticky garbage from my hands and were wonderful — they left our Xcaret before and loved the rivers threw it out herself. If there was one daughter completely entranced, sit- that flowed through lagoons and outstanding feature of the entire ting on the edge of her seat, gaz- underground caves. Disney Cruise, it was the amazing ing at the stage and singing along, When we arrived, our Mexi- level of customer service. which made the people sitting next can tour group company gave all The last night of the trip was my to us chuckle. the Disney guests life preservers, daughter’s fourth birthday and the Every night when we came back walked us into the river and assured dining staff came out with a cake to our cabin, our sheets were turned us none of us would drown. As I was and sang “Happy Birthday” to her. down with mints, a program of the pulling my daughter through the Before she blew out the candles, I next day’s events and a towel sculp- river, since she could not swim, she told her to make a wish. Later that ture, or “towelgami.” The first night screamed and hollered at the top of night when I asked her what her our daughter was afraid to come her lungs for her father. At the end wish was, she said she wanted to go into the cabin when she saw a big of our river adventure, we stayed on another Disney Cruise. lobster made out of terry cloth sit- on the beach and had lunch. We Since my husband had just paid ting on our bed. However, after sev- were then given a couple of hours to on board for a Disney Cruise for eral nights of being welcomed home venture off and see all the animals, next year, her wish had, in fact, by a swan, elephant and turtle, she birds and fish. Unlike the older chil- come true. August 2010 • BRONX Family 13 around town The Bronx is Open!
By Tiziana Rinaldi wide and where type two-diabetes to the city’s public schools to fend Lots of family has been spreading among the pedi- off the scourge of childhood obesity, he summer has its rituals atric population, local families can will be joined by Broadway actors activities at and the EmblemHealth Bronx use all the help they can get. for the special performances (a sec- T Open, the annual tennis “We highlight the importance ond one will take place on the tennis competition that brings top-ranked of fitness in combating pediatric courts). Crotona Park women players to Crotona Park be- obesity, and [support] academic ac- The message she wants all kids to fore they square off at the U.S. Open, complishment for overall [health] in take home is threefold — consume a is one of them. youth,” said Bianchini. The league — balanced diet by incorporating foods this August The event, kicking off Aug. which partners with EmblemHealth from all groups: grains, veggies and 22 and benefiting the New for the tournament and was founded fruits, meats and dairy. York Junior Tennis League by Arthur Ashe to promote health, “People think that if they just eat (NYJTL), is known for education and athletic opportuni- a lot of fruits and vegetables, that the world-class tennis ties among underprivileged kids all means they’re eating a healthy diet,” it brings to the bor- over the five boroughs — “greatly Butleroff said. “But it doesn’t mean ough. But, Crotona fosters [that],” he added. that!” As part of the EmblemHealth Also, making the correct food Bronx Open’s focus on health, the choices within each group by favor- organization will offer skin cancer ing whole grains, lean meats (turkey screenings, safety tips for summer versus ribs), and low-fat dairy alter- fun, obesity and diabetes preven- natives (skim or one-percent milk tion, and dietary counseling. versus whole) for example, is essen- Children can also learn how tial. Exercise, her third recommenda- to take pictures through a digi- tion, is just as important. tal photography workshop with “[Families] need to get up and Ed Bobrow, a renowned nature move,” she said. “Dance with your and landscape specialist, and kids, pretend to do a ‘Star Search’ his group of photographers. They and then give a prize to the best will be teaching the league kids dancer.” Walking together in the how to use the camera, see beyond many parks and gardens around what’s in the lens and take action the city, exploring a new borough, shots of the players. and taking in free events — like the “It’s a great venue because it Bronx Open — where people can presents sports action, a chance pick up a new sport, are precisely to see audiences’ reaction and to the type of activities to look for, find beauty in the mundane, all in added Butleroff. the Bronx!” said Bobrow, who A cooking workshop with celeb- hopes that children will learn rity Chef Max Fleurival on Aug. 23 to look at the world in ways will focus on helping Bronx parents they have never experienced be- incorporate wholesome meals into fore. their household, get their children Maria Bastone “[This] is a community event with involved in grocery shopping and Helen Butleroff with Broadway actor Park also offers free daily tennis les- so much opportunity for interaction, preparing healthier food. Roumel Reaux (holding a drawing of sons from 12 pm to 3 pm, which have even if one is not participating in the “[Parents] work, they come home the new food pyramid) surrounded by introduced more than one child to a sport.” tired. A common solution is to pick up some of the students she trains to per- love of the sport and even opened a some fast food and feed it to the kids form on the “New Food Guide Pyramid path to college. Kids’ day — eliminating pots, pans and even Musical,” shown at the 2009 Kids Day, “We have a long tradition of sup- On Aug. 26, EmblemHealth will en- dishes,” said Denise Shearer, special EmblemHealth Bronx Open. porting the health and wellness of courage good-eating habits among events manger at EmblemHealth. the communities we serve,” said kids by featuring a double perfor- “Rich and poor families can still Frank Bianchini, president and chief mance this year of the “New Food offer a variety of foods by taking the operating officer of EmblemHealth, Guide Pyramid Musical.” during the time to learn and work together.” which sponsors the event. “Our annual Kids’ Day. More than 2,000 EmblemHealth Bronx Open [Crotona commitment to the Bronx Open is a children are expected to attend. Park, (347) 417-8129], Aug. 22-28. Free, key element of that support.” Helen Butleroff, the former-Rock- except for the final, Aug. 28, $10. Rain In a borough that registers some ette-turned-certified-dietitian who date Aug. 29. For info, visit www.nyjtl. of the highest obesity rates nation- created the musical, which she takes org.
14 BRONX Family • August 2010 Looking for fun
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August 2010 • BRONX Family 15 around town Visit the Bronx of the Society of Friends. The community pad- dle, a canoeing trip along the river, also guided and free of charge, by the is a must-try for families this sum- River or ganization, mer, according to Williams. Canoe- functions both as a reminder of how ing excursions vary each month to bad things can get, and a testimonial maximize the involvement of all the By Tiziana Rinaldi to the power of the human spirit. The Bronx communities along the river’s Discover the determination and joint action of banks. The next canoeing trip will be fter decades of mending the many residents have reclaimed the held at the end of the month. amazing river maladies of its heavily pol- beauty of a waterway whose sooth- “To canoe in your [neighborhood], A luted stream, the Bronx Riv- ing comfort is much needed in a it’s such a value,” said Williams, who er’s dedicated riverine communities borough still afflicted by some of the was introduced to the sport when she next door can enjoy the summer pleasures of highest asthma and obesity rates in joined the Alliance. “It gives people clean water, brisk air, lush banks and the country. an experience they may otherwise winding greenways. “The Bronx River runs through not have and our recreational team is The Bronx River Alliance, a non- the heart of the Bronx,” said Wil- really knowledgeable. They can teach profit environmental organization liams. “Local families will have op- participants a new skill.” created in 2001 to rescue, protect portunities for fun, fitness, education The Bronx River Alliance’s com- and open public access to the Bronx and to stay in touch with nature that munity paddle is open to all, unlike River, has a lot to do with it. The most urban families won’t have.” the Flotilla, the traditional seasonal agency, which works in cooperation Two summer activities she recom- opening where only experienced with the New York City Department mends are the Bronx River ramble paddlers can participate. of Parks and Recreation, operates and the community paddle. The ram- Children get firsthand experience to promote education, participation ble falls on the first Saturday of the with nature and awareness of their and a wide programming of commu- month and consists of a two-hour role within it. Luis Matta and Chasity nity- and family-oriented activities guided nature walk that takes par- Marie Cozzolino, 12- and 6-years- that take place both on the river and ticipants on an ecological and his- old, respectively, often participate in along its shores. torical exploration of a different river events run by the Alliance, and have “I have a passion for introducing community each time. Led by either become fond of the river simply by people to new things,” said Michelle volunteer historians or trained staff, playing with it. Williams, community outreach man- the walk is approximately two miles “It’s fun,” said Chasity, who also ager for the Bronx River Alliance. “I long and free of charge, like many of participated in the narration of the feel that as beautiful as the Bronx the Alliance’s activities. video. “Kids can help the river by River is, if you are a family living in “We thought of creating the ram- volunteering time to clean it up.” the Bronx, then you should be on ble because we have established so Luis, who enjoys canoeing and the river!” many greenways along the river,” fishing, contributes his time to keep Once known to be an open sewer, said Williams, who attributes the the river healthy. the river has been restored to its program to motivating people to ex- “Bronx children can help remove health, and once again home to ercise in nature, and helping resi- garbage and other stuff that can “turtles and toddlers, the great blue dents learn about the history of their harm the fish and turtles,” he said. heron, and fathers and daughters neighborhood. Bronx River Alliance’s Bronx River with fishing poles,” according to A recent ramble in Hunts Point ramble [Location to be decided, (718) the Alliance, becoming a symbol of included walking in the footsteps of 430-4658], Aug 7 and first Saturday of Bronxites’ commitment and dedica- S a r a h T i t u s ( t e n d e r o f t h e We s t c h e s t e r each month. Community paddle [Lo- tion to their borough. Bridge over the Bronx River), Revolt- cation to be decided, (718) 430-4658] “I am the Bronx River,” a short ionary War hero General Marquis de Saturday, Aug. 28. For info, visit www. promotional video recently released Lafayette and George Fox, founder bronxriver.org.
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August 2010 • BRONX Family 17 Education College road trip
By Risa C. DoheRty and ask questions by e-mail, on the neighborhood and the Hillel House. Why you phone or at an information session. Athletes can arrange for a meet- y the time your child is enter- If your child is interviewing, have ing with a coach, and all prospective should hit the ing her junior year in high her prepare by going on the school’s students should try to make an ap- B school, you should consider Web site and on collegeboard.com — pointment in advance to speak with visiting colleges. Back in the last cen- this way she does not ask basic ques- a professor or teaching assistant in road before tury, my folks never took me to visit tions that show she did not spend the student’s chosen department, any colleges until I was accepted, but any time researching the school. unless she is undecided. This way your senior it is a different world today. She should have some questions pre- she can get a good idea of the avail- One mother was incredulous pared for the interviewer — this is able coursework in her area. Ask at when I told her that visiting a school her chance to sell herself and charm the Admissions Office for a course applies might increase a student’s chances the interviewer with her personality. catalogue from the previous year, of being admitted. Have her do her first interview at her which can usually be found online, “They don’t really look at minu- safety school, as a practice run. as well, and see if there are limited tiae like that, do they?” she asked. Before hitting the road, create a offerings in the area of interest. I Yes, they do — sometimes. Most list. The initial selection of poten- know of a student who transferred colleges will not admit it. These days, tial schools should be made taking out of a school because he ran out of the college-admissions process is into account cost, location, social courses in his chosen department. very competitive, and many even In most schools, all majors are re- ask on the application if the student quired to take some courses outside has visited the school or spoken to a Visiting a campus will their area, so the prospective stu- representative. The schools want to dent should think about how much know how effective their outreach help your student think math and science or humanities she is, but they may also use this data can stomach. when they are having trouble decid- of questions and issues Some people prefer to visit the ing if they should admit a particular important to her, which cold-weather schools (the “snow- applicant. belt” ones) in the winter to be sure Colleges want you to visit so that she can’t even think of their child will be happy there. Apart they can show you their facilities and from my personal fear of driving dur- encourage your child to apply and if asking until she’s there. ing white-out conditions, one friend accepted, to attend. Their goal is to told her son he could not attend a have as many students apply as pos- particular cold-weather school be- sible, accept a limited number and life, and perhaps religious life on cause the door to her car froze shut raise their yield by convincing the campus. Do research online to find during their winter visit. Many prefer accepted students to attend. They out basic information like available to visit when school is in session, are focused on filling their incoming majors and minors, male-female if possible, during high-school va- class with the most qualified fresh- ratio, ethnic diversity, sports avail- cation time. Some visit while high men. Students should have their own able, and geographic breakdown of school is in session and miss classes. reasons to visit: to see if they like the the student body. Often, high school Most schools will excuse the ab- school, to ask questions, and, if pos- guidance counselors make useful sence if the student provides proof sible, to interview. suggestions. Once you have a list, of the visit. “You can get a feel for where you you can plan your trip(s). Visiting a campus will help your will call home, learn about the aca- Many schools require students student think of questions and is- demics, the surrounding area, [your and their families to sign up in ad- sues important to her, which she preference for an] urban or rural [en- vance for tours and information ses- cannot even think of asking until vironment], and be able to narrow sions. Interviews require appoint- she is on campus. Tell your student down the number of applications ments. You will need to figure out to look at collegeconfidential.com, [you will submit],” says Tom Mari- how long each portion of your visit collegeprowler.com, and unigo.com ano, Assistant Dean of Admissions at will last and schedule in a lunch to get the students’ point of view, Franklin & Marshall College. break, if you are visiting more than although, what other students post Ask if the college encourages in- one school. We always leave early is not the gospel. Nothing replaces terviews and uses them in its deci- to get in a tour, information session, her being there and looking around sion-making process. Some offer in- interview and time to walk to parts herself. terviews for informational purposes of the campus not included on the About half of the schools I have only; that is, for your information. tour — checking out the bookstore, had the pleasure of visiting (nine and Your child can avoid the extra stress the sorority houses, the surrounding counting) will show you a fake dorm
18 BRONX Family • August 2010 room, usually completely decorated away, only to be left in a dorm, empty dressed. Most high schoolers can by our friends at Bed Bath & Be- on weekends because all the locals use guidance and input when weigh- yond. Some schools have the student go home. ing all the important factors. guides share their own small abode Being able to eliminate a school Deciding where to apply and if with you. This will give you a better or move one to the top of the list one should apply early, while trying idea of how an actual college student can be very important. Not only can to calculate one’s chances of being lives and the opportunity to ask an your student save money by not ap- accepted, is a daunting and bewil- actual resident specific questions plying to a school, but deciding if dering task. If your student is able to about what it is like to live there, the and where to apply early decision, travel to most of the schools on her cleanliness of the bathrooms, the re- which is binding, can help her to list, she has an advantage. Your stu- liability of the air conditioning (if you prioritize her selected schools. Stu- dent cannot control the school’s de- are lucky), etc. dents who apply early usually have cision-making process, but to some Talk to students you see on cam- an advantage. Also, most colleges extent, visiting and marketing her- pus, most of the time they will be ask the applicant to submit an essay self to the schools she determines very friendly and happy to help. Talk describing why they have decided may best match her needs can put to other people taking your tour. to apply to the school. These essays her in the driver’s seat. I usually stalk other potential stu- are much easier to write, having Of course, showing interest in and dents with my daughter’s major and seen the school and learned more visiting a school is a plus, but it will ask where else they are applying, just about it during a visit. never get a student admitted with so we leave no stone unturned. It’s Know your student. Many teens unsatisfactory grades, standardized an opportunity to give and receive are not ready to make an educated, test scores or lack of extra-curric- valuable information, and people are adult decision like the selection of ular activities — so, as always, it’s generally quite receptive. a college. Some do all the research important kids hit the books! When visiting a school be sure to and evaluate schools in a rational Risa C. Doherty is an attorney, free- ask about the commuter population. manner. Others judge schools by lance writer and mother raising a high- I have known students who have their proximity to the best shop- school senior. been excited about their first year ping venues or how one student is Copyright 2010 by Risa C. Doherty
August 2010 • BRONX Family 19 Education Directory Harry H. Gordon School Center for Early Childhood Education* Harry H. Gordon School Center Kinneret Day School for Early Childhood Education, 2600 Netherland Avenue NYS certified teachers and therapists use a team approach YAI/NY League for Early Learning 718-548-0900 or www. to provide a nurturing learning environment 2465 Bathgate Avenue kinneretdayschool.org 718 367-5917 Kinneret Day School was founded in 1947 by a • Early Intervention Program Offers Early Intervention Programs (birth-5), group of visionary communal leaders. Presently Special Education Preschool Integrated Classes, located in Riverdale, NY, the school is dedicated • Early Childhood and Special Education Preschool Developmental Evaluations, Universal Pre-K and to providing an integrated secular and Judaic • Integrated Classes (Developmentally Appropriate Practice) Daycare with on-going staff development. Fully instructional program. It strives to develop com- licensed with NYS certified teachers and thera- petent, independent and resourceful students, • Ongoing Staff Development pists using a team approach to provide a nurtur- who possess a strong sense of self, and a lifelong ing learning environment for children. commitment to learning and to Judaism. The • State Ed. Approved Evaluation Site school prepares students to successfully function Bronx: on the present, while helping them develop the Holy Rosary School necessary skills for dealing with the future. With Main Building 1500 Arnow Ave. students in nursery through eighth grade, it is an 718-652-1838 or www. inclusive Jewish community day school, serving 2465 Bathgate Ave. holyrosaryschoolbronx.org children from liberal to traditional families. (Near Arthur Ave. & 189th St.) We offer a faith based educational program from On average, more than half of Kinneret’s gradu- Pre-Kindergarten – Eighth grade. ating eighth graders are accepted into specialized Annex Along with superior academics, a structured and high schools, with many choosing to enter elite 1180 East 214th St. nurturing environment ensures that your child private and Jewish day schools. Based on state will enjoy learning in this peaceful and happy tests, the school continues to be ranked among 718-367-5917 place. Programs include computer, music, art, the top scoring schools in New York State. physical education, library and foreign language in all grades. Their band and music lessons are in collaboration with the Bronx Conservatory of Little Angels Head Start Program Music. They have early drop off and after-school Main Office: 402 East 152nd Street programs available. As well as hot breakfast and Bronx New York 10455 lunch programs. (718) 402-0081 ext.248 Call for more information about their Tuesday Quality No-Cost Education for Children 3-4 Years *Licensed by the NYC Department Tours. Old Little Angels Head Start has been a leader in pre- of Health Bureau of Day Care school education, for over 44 years and is one of Hudson Country Montessori School the largest Head Start providers in New York City. 340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle We serve families with 13 locations in the Bronx 914-636-6202 or www.hudsoncountry. and Manhattan and are proud of our multicul- org tural environment. Good Beginings Never End Montessori for the millennium. Today’s children Head Start Works- Little Angels Makes it Work are entering the most complex living situation and Better they must be able to cope with and adapt to this Our philosophy is simple: Teachers and Parents experience awaiting them. Montessori introduces working together = Success for children and their THE MilEsTonE scHool children to the joy of learning, providing a frame- families. A Montessori oriented environment, fostering your child’s work in which intellectual and social disciplines go hand in hand. Children learn to observe, think, Individualized Plan We recognize and encourage growth and development through those first important judge and pursue their own interests at their own each child’s amazing potential to succeed in life academic milestones. • Extended Day 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. pace. Our students are exposed to physical and and are dedicated in promoting school readiness mental order, working with materials with a pur- by enhancing the social and cognitive develop- Chartered by NYS Board of Regents poseful design. The calm and happy atmosphere ment of children through educational, health, fosters concentration, creativity and self-respect nutritional and social services. Following strict Federal Guidelines, we are an accredited institu- enabling children to work individually while tion of learning. acquiring a solid academic foundation. Programs are available for children from 15 months through Quality Education Our distinguished teaching 8th grade with extended hours available (7:30 staff is committed to providing superior early a.m. – 6:30 p.m.) for working parents. Call to childhood development and a love of learning. join one of our tours or visit our website. Children with special needs are a top priority and Continued on page 22 United Edu-Care Preschool Children 2.6 Years Preschool • Kindergarten • Primary Grades 1-4 up to Kindergarten, • Stepping Stones 2 year Old program a few vacancies • Diaper Friendly Classes • Early Phonics Reading Program • Inclusive Enchantment Programs; Arts, Drama, Music, still available. Chess, & Yoga • Afterschool and Summer Programs Universal Pre-Kindergarten Program Mrs. Angela Freeman, MS Ed. (Head of School) 7:00am—5:45pm • 718-882-4706 70 West Broad Street, Fleetwood, NY 10552 914.667.3478 Still 3950 Bronxwood Ave. www.themilestoneschool.com Registering! Contact: Nana Nantwi
20 BRONX Family • August 2010 Little Angels Head Start ST. ANSELM SCHOOL AppLy NOw 1/2 & Full Day no cost quality education for the 2010–2011 School year Sessions pre-school for 3-4 year olds for pre-K (ages 3 and 4) through Grade 8 Available 13 locations serving: the Bronx and Manhattan offers a safe and Delicious Warm St. Anselm School call today nurturing learning environment where Meals 718-402-0081 Ext. 248 students: • Achieve academic success BRONX LOCATIONS • Learn integrity and values in the Fordham 2331 University Avenue Catholic tradition 2195 Valentine Avenue Burnside 1960 University Avenue • Belong to a community that fosters Highbridge 1248 Nelson Avenue self-confidence and school spirit Norwood 3044 Hull Avenue Mott Haven 452 College Avenue • Full day Pre-K (ages 3 & 4) and • Daily Extended Care Program Marble Hill 5480 Broadway Parkchester 1750 Mansion Street Kindergarten until 6:00pm Belmont 695 East 182nd Street • Technology Program including • After school Tutoring Program SMART Boards and WiFi Access • After School Choir, ART and MANHATTAN LOCATIONS • Theater Arts Program Band Program Inwood 71-91 Arden Street Harlem 461 West 131st Street • Fully-automated Library • Intra-Mural Athleltic Programs East Village 137 East 2nd Street • Art and Music Programs for grades 6, 7 & 8 • Physical Education • Guidance & Counseling Services we welcome special needs children hablamos español SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE For more information or to schedule a visit, please call the school office. 685 Tinton Avenue, Bronx, NY 10455 Phone: 718 993 9464 www.stanselmbx.org
Learning the right answers will get your child through school. Learning how to learn willl get your child through life! Open HOuse at 9:30 am ToddLer every Wednesday PreschooL every Thursday eLemenTary every Tuesday Please call to join one of our tours
Hudson Country Montessori School Inspiring curious, creative, and gifted minds. Toddlers through 8th grade. 340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle, NY 10804 * 914. 636. 6202 • www.HudsonCountry.org • email:[email protected]
August 2010 • BRONX Family 21 Education Directory
Continued from page 20 a spirit of mutual cooperation. St. Anselm School are always welcome at Little Angels Head Start. welcomes applications for admission. Please con- tact the school office for more information. Registration Ongoing Family We support families in improving their For Fall 2010 quality of life. We offer a sense of belonging, support services, and a chance to be involved in St. Helena School Pre-K Thru 8th Grade activities to help the entire family. Free services 2050 Benedict Ave, Bronx include: Job readiness, health, nutrition, Literacy, 718-892-3234 ESL, Parenting, Fatherhood Group, and various Is a culturally diverse Catholic school that edu- Extra Features referrals. cates children from full day Pre-K – 3 years to 8th • Early Drop-Off Our families also have a voice in our program’s grade in the Park Chester/ Castle Hill section of shared decision-making and we encourage com- the Bronx. Their motto is “It’s Fun to be Good!” • Daily Christian Prayer munity involvement. Students in grades 1-8 have a schedule from 8:00 • Outdoor Activities All services are free of charge. For more informa- to 2:35 daily. They are accredited by Middle States tion and center locations give us a call. along with fine NYS ELA and Math test scores. • Qualified and Experienced Students enjoy 2 periods of gym, computers and library each week in state-of-the-art facilities. Faculty The Milestone School Extracurricular activities include boys as well as 70 West Broad Street Mount Vernon; girls’ basketball, track, bowling, volleyball, cub • Emphasis on Character 914-667-3478 or www. scouts and summer camp. Their graduates have themilestoneschool.com earned over $200,000 in high school scholar- Development “Good Beginnings Never End” is the premise ships. • After School Programs upon which The Milestone School was founded in 1979. Centrally located in the lovely Fleetwood • Academic Tutoring section of Mount Vernon, the school offers a St. Luke School unique and highly enriched curriculum for the 608 East 139th St. • Staffed Library nursery through 4th grade child. Realizing how 718-585-0380 or www.stluke138.org important it is for a child to get off to a good It is a safe haven in the South Bronx where chil- Guided by The New York State Curriculum start, our “early phonics reading program” is one dren are motivated to grow spiritually, academi- Standards & Essential of Learning of of which we are most proud and upon which cally, emotionally and socially. Their students are the Archdiocese of New York. We are our reputation throughout Lower Westchester encouraged to become life long leaders who will has been built. Our strong academic curriculum one day make a difference in the world. They are also accredited by The Middle States along with our inclusive enrichment programs accepting applications for Pre-k thru Grade 8. Association of Colleges and Schools. which include Spanish, art, drama (Shakespeare) Full day preschool and an after-school program music, chess and yoga are the fundamental tools are available. Please call for more information. that allow our graduates entry into the most pres- tigious schools in New York City and Westchester and Fairfield counties. Let over 30 years of excel- Sts. Philip & James School lence take your child through this first and most 1160 East 213th St. Bronx important “milestone” in his/her education. 718-882-4576 or www. HOLY ROSARY SCHOOL stsphilipandjames.com ~ Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools ~ It is a Parochial School that fosters a distinctively St. Anselm School catholic-Christian based education. In undertak- 685 Tinton Avenue ing this mission special emphasis is given to the Register Now 718 993 9464 or www.stanselmbx.org personal, intellectual and spiritual development Offers a safe, nurturing, values-based learning of each student. Through its spiritual and aca- For 2010–2011 School Year environment for students in Pre-K (ages 3 and 4 demic programs, Saints Philip and James School years) through Grade 8 where they can achieve undertakes a holistic approach to education. academic success, learn integrity and values in the Registration is ongoing for fall 2010 for Pre-k thru OPEN HOUSE: AUGUST 30th, 31st and September 1st Catholic tradition, and belong to a community 8th Grade. Early drop-off and after-school pro- that fosters self-confidence and school spirit. grams are available to working parents. Call for 9 am–12 pm The school provides a high quality educational more information about the Cardinal Scholarship program designed to prepare students to succeed Program. and compete in the 21st century. Students are • Curriculum founded on • Programs include Computer, taught to not only develop a mastery of academic Archdiocesan Guidelines and Music, Art, PE, Library and Foreign skills, but also enthusiastic and wholesome atti- St. Simon Stock current NYS Standards Language in all grades Pre-K tudes towards learning. The administration, fac- 2195 Valentine Avenue through 8 ulty and staff work in partnership with parents in • SMART BOARD Technology Continued on page 24 at every grade level • Certified, experienced faculty with a commitment to Catholic Education • Continued tradition of excellence on • After School program available; Archdiocesan Standardized ITBS early drop off; hot lunch program tests as well as NYS Exams St . Thomas Aquinas School • Sports/activities program, after • Strong academic studies balanced school music and band lessons $ALY !VENUE s "RONX .9 with a values based, caring and available; collaboration with the Mrs. Teresa Sopot Principal nurturing environment Bronx Conservatory of Music RegistrationRegistration isin Ongoing. February. Call Call forfor Tours Tours Full Day2EGISTRATION /N 'OING s 3CHOLARSHIPS !VAILABLEPre-K4 Pre-K3, and Pre-K4 Kindergarten; and Kindergarten; Grades 1–Grades 8 1-8 &ULL $AY 0RE + 0RE + AND +INDERGARTEN 'RADES If you can’t join us for our Open House s %ARLY $ROP /FF AM s 'UIDANCE #OUNSELOR s !FTER 3CHOOL 0ROGRAM 5NTIL s %ARLY $ROP /FF !- 0- s 3TATE /F 4HE !RT 7IRELESS ,APTOPS s 4ITLE ) 3ERVICES 2EADING -ATH %3, be sure to call about our TUESDAY TOURS. s $EDICATED &ACULTY AND 3TAFFs !FTER 3CHOOL 0ROGRAM 5NTIL 0- #OMPUTER ,AB 3MARTBOARD 4ECHNOLOGYs 'UIDANCE #OUNSELOR s &REE "REAKFAST 0ROGRAMs $EDICATED &ACULTY AND 3TAFF s 3TATE /F 4HE !RT 7IRELESS ,APTOPS Come and see all of the good things happening. s 0HYSICAL %DUCATION #OMPUTER ,AB 3MARTBOARD 4ECHNOLOGY s (OT ,UNCH 0ROGRAMs &REE "REAKFAST 0ROGRAM s !RT -USIC 0ROGRAMs 0HYSICAL %DUCATION s !FTER 3CHOOL #HOIR 6IOLIN 6IOLA s (OT ,UNCH 0ROGRAM s !RT -USIC 0ROGRAM 1500 Arnow Avenue, Bronx, NY 10469 0IANO ,ESSONSs !FTER 3CHOOL !RT #HOIR 6IOLIN 0IANO ,ESSONSs $AILY 0RAYER AND 7EEKLY -ASSESs $AILY 0RAYER AND 7EEKLY -ASSES 718-652-1838 www.HolyRosarySchoolBronx.org s 4ITLE ) 3ERVICES 2EADING -ATH %3,Celebrating Over 100 Years Of Academic Excellences 2ESOURCE 2OOM FOR %LIGIBLE 3TUDENTS In The West Farms-South Bronx Area Celebrating Over 100 Years Of Academic Excellence In The West Farms-South Bronx Area
22 BRONX Family • August 2010 St. Helena School A Total School Program at St. Helena School Enrollment for September 2010
• Full Day Early Childhood Program for 3 Year Olds • Full Day Pre-School (4 yrs. old) and Kindergarten • Schedule: 8:00am to 2:35pm Grades 2 to 8 Double Periods of Math and Reading • Breakfast Program Available (beginning at 7:00am) • After School Programs to 6:30pm (3 yrs. old to 7th grade) • Academics - According to New York State Board of Regents Requirements • Accredited by Middle States Association • Gym with Qualified Supervision • Fundamentals of Art Expression • Computer Skills - Development in Computer Operation
A Safe Passage Through Childhood/A Solid Religious Foundation
As seen in the Daily News on December 19, 2006 2050 Benedict Ave. Catholic school keeps faiths School entrance on Benedict Avenue “All God’s children” welcome “There is a wonderful family atmosphere between Pugsley Ave. & Olmstead Ave. here. In the Parkchester area, you have all these faiths. It doesn’t matter if your neigh- Bronx, NY 10462 bor is Muslim or Catholic. They’re still your neighbor.” - Richard Meller, Principal 718-892-3234
August 2010 • BRONX Family 23 Education 1144 Hoe Avenue, Bronx NY, 110459-1915 (Between Home St. & East 167th St.) Directory
Continued from page 22 ing, occupational, physical and speech therapies; TEL: 718-328-7226 • FAX: 718-378-5368 718-367-0453 or www. feeding therapy; music therapy, computer lab, stsimonstockschool.org therapeutic pool, accessible outdoor playground, Is a private co-educational Catholic School for SHARE lending library, adapted toys and an children in kindergarten through 8th grade. We equipment/ orthotic clinic. Located on a 13- acre provide a quality education along with a chal- campus, this school provides a family-friendly lenging curriculum. We are departmentalized in atmosphere with barrier-free classrooms and a our 6th, 7th and 8th grades. St. Simon Stock is bilingual staff. ST. JOHN an “oasis in the desert” as the late John Cardinal O’Connor was known to say in talks to educators The United Educare Pre-School everywhere. We are a stabilizing influence in the 3950 Bronxwood Avenue, corner of community and a beacon of hope for the inner city 224th St in the Bronx. neighborhood. All of us at St. Simon Stock believe 718-882-4706 in what we do, like what we do and are proud of CHRYSOSTOM We accept children ages 2.6 through what we do. This is evident in the fact that the majority of our teaching staff has been part of the Kindergarten. We use the A BEKA Curriculum. St. Simon Stock community since the 1980’s. We guarantee the Parents that if their children start with us at age 2.6 through Graduation in Our students are involved in curriculum based our Kindergarten Program they will be able to SCHOOL class trips, where they can visualize what they read. For more information, you may contact the have read about in their textbooks. Ask about Director, Nana Nantwi. our Cardinal Scholarships for the new school year for new students from public schools. Universal PRE-K4 Universal Pre-Kindergarten and Toddler Center at Bronx House St. Thomas Aquinas School 990 Pelham Parkway South, Bronx 1909 Daly Ave. Contact Person: Amber Cartwright Our Universal UPK has been a 718-893-7600 Contact Phone: 718-792-1800 Ext. 249 Was founded by Mother Butler and the Religious Contact Email: [email protected] of the Sacred Heart of Mary in 1907. Over these Bronx House in conjunction with the New York wonderful beginning for St. John’s. years the school has been a mainstay in the City Department of Education is now accepting neighborhood. It continues to provide a Roman applications for its Universal Pre-Kindergarten Catholic curriculum and a quality education program for children born in 2006. Universal We invite you to be one of the first addressing the changing needs of the student Pre-K is an excellent first step on the road to edu- population. Catholic values are infused in every cation, offering children stimulating activities and aspect of their students’ educational experience. the opportunity to socialize. Classes are available to reserve a seat for our Their faculty and staff are dedicated to providing Monday-Friday offering morning (9:00 am-11:30 a safe and nurturing environment for all. Their am) or afternoon (12:30 p.m.-3 p.m.) sessions pastor, Father Jose Giunta and the priests of the are free. Extended Day classes (9am-3pm or new September 2010 class. Institute of the Incarnate Word administer to the 9am-6pm) are also available for a fee, extended spiritual aspects of the school community. St. hours can include early drop off 8:00 a.m.-9:00 Thomas Aquinas school is committed to their a.m. Classes begin in September. Our Toddler mission of Catholic education. Registration is Center is an excellent first step on the road to ongoing. Inquire about scholarships. The school education, offering children stimulating activities has full day Pre-K3, Pre-K4 and Kindergarten, and the opportunity to socialize. Children learn ANY CHILD BORN IN 2006 CAN REGISTER grades 1 to 8. Early drop-off and after-school are through music, arts and crafts, story time and also available. have an opportunity to play in our well equipped playroom. Each activity is designed to help chil- UCP/NYC Bronx Children’s Program dren work and learn together. In our Toddler and You Class (designed for 1 year olds), parents 1770 Stillwell Ave. bond and attend with their children while having 718-652-9790 ext 210 or www.ucpnyc.org a great time. For our Tot Spot (age 3) parents Is a place where children of varying abilities learn drop off their children who are then taught by together in a safe, resource-enriched, therapeutic Early Childhood Educators. Classes meet once or learning environment. Their 12-month programs twice a week for 10 sessions. Classes are avail- include Early Intervention (birth-3 years) and able Monday-Saturday. Saturday classes offer an Preschool (3-5 years). Therapeutic services include opportunity to swim after class. Registration is family support, health/nursing, vision, counsel- ongoing. St. Simon Stock School • Quality Education • Challenging Curriculum • Enrichment (Financial Aid Available) Mrs. Ceparano, Principal FREE Call for an appointment Universal Pre-K Class for an Open House tour.
K through 8 Computer Lab and state of the art library TACHS Preparation classes St. John’s University Partnership For Sept. 2010 to June 2011 th th th Departmentalized 6 , 7 , 8 grade Various Clubs (Art, Computer, Choir, Yearbook, Art, Music Stockettes & Guitar) Physical Education After school 2:30-6pm Summer Academy & Camp Student of the Month Hot Breakfast/Lunch program Middle States Accreditation Full time nurse on premises Smart Board Technology ESL K to 8 and Title 1 Services Project Leap Guidance Counselor 2195 Valentine Ave., Bronx NY 10457 • 718. 367. 0453
24 BRONX Family • August 2010 The Kinneret SAINT LUKE SCHOOL School “THE PLACE TO BE” Ranked as a top ten school based on N.Y. State tests Accepting Applications For Early Childhood Pre-K – Grade 8 Elementary • Jr. High School Full Day Pre-School Program and After-School Program Available We incorporate the best of We Offer: American & Jewish • Faith Based Learning Environment • Computer Lab • Partner Class Mass • S.M.A.R.T. Boards Education in an inclusive Celebrations and Worship • Varsity Girls and Boys environment. On average • Dedicated, Experienced Basketball Teams more than 1/2 of our students Teachers And Staff • Guidance Counselling are accepted into the • Breakfast and Lunch Program • Strong Academic Program • Free Academic Tutoring In Accordance With NYS Board specialized High Schools. • Art and Music Program Of Regents Requirements Open House • Band • Cultural Celebrations Every Friday 9-10AM—Please Call. • Science Lab For All Grades - • Opportunities To Make Participation In Bronx District A Difference In The World 2600 Netherland Ave. Science Fair By Taking Part In Various Projects Riverdale, NY10463 718 585-0380 718-548-0900 608 East 139 St. Bronx, New York 10454 Fax 718-548-0901 Tracey Coleman, Principal www.kinneretdayschool.org
August 2010 • BRONX Family 25 Going Places
Long-running Training Group: The Animal Medical Submit a listing Going Places is dedicated to Center, 510 East 62nd St. (854)-230- bringing our readers the most 6406; [email protected]; comprehensive events calendar www.volunteer.guidingeyes.org; Free. in your area. But to do so, we need your help! Guiding Eyes for the Blind seeks volun- All your have to do is send teers to foster future guide dog puppies. your listing request to calendar@ All training, support and veterinary ex- cnglocal.com — and we’ll take penses are provided free of charge. Pre- care of the rest. Please e-mail requests more than three weeks placement classes are held at the Dog prior to the event to ensure we Spa in Chelsea at 32 West 25th Street. have enough time to get it in. Required weekly raiser classes are held And best of all, it’s FREE! on Sunday evenings at the Center. Call for specific location & time. school activities for children ages 12 and Support Group: Single Parents Con- one-half to 16. Activities include basket- nection, PO Box 1203; (718) 796-1227. ball, indoor, soccer, boys to men group, Single Parents Connection is a non – girl talk, keystone club, crafts, computer, profit organization that offers single par- theater group, help with homework, ents an opportunity to meet for dinners, school projects, cooking and more. There brunches, and local trips. Meets in the The Bronx Lagoon is also a lounge and a game room. Po- Riverdale and Yonkers area. For informa- tential participants do not have to live in tion, dates, times and location write to ough times forcing you to guardian who want to explore the pan a “staycation” this sum- lagoon of Pelham Bay. the Fort Independence houses to join, Single Parents Connection; PO Box 1203; mer? Best of all — it’s free! but must live in the surrounding com- Riverdale, NY; 10471; or call David. T Then plan it around Pelham So maybe you can put it to- munity. To register, students should bring Lizards and Snakes - Alive: Ameri- Beach Park, where, on Aug. 8 and wards that vacation after all. school ID and proof of age. Monday can Museum of Natural History, Central 22, you can enjoy music, games “Canoeing the Lagoon” at the Or- through Friday at 6:30 p.m. or call Israel Park West at W. 79th Street; (212) 769- and canoeing, without breaking chard Beach Lagoon [meet at the Rosario. 5200; www.amnh.org. $24 adults; ($14 the bank! The Ranger-led program northeast corner of Orchard Beach — called “Canoeing the Lagoon” parking lot, (718) 885-3466], Aug. Pickle Me: New York Botanical Gar- children; $18 for seniors/ students). — will provide canoes, lifejackets 8 and 22 at 11 am. Free. For info, dens, Bronx River Parkway at Fordham See a diversity of legged and legless and instructions to children 8 and go to www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ Road; (718) 817-8700; www.nybg.org; lizards representing more than 20 species older accompanied by parent or register. Weekdays, 12–5:30 pm, Tues, Aug. 3 – from all over the world. Fri, Sep. 3; Free with garden admission. Race to the End of the Earth: Family Art Project: Wave Hill, West 249th St. and Independence Ave. (718) Dig, Plant, Grow, Parade throughout American Museum of Natural History, 249th St. and Independence Ave. (718) 549-3200 X395; wavehillcafe@greatper- the Family Garden to learn about plants, Central Park West at 79th Street; (212) 549-3200; www.wavehill.org; Saturdays formances.com; www.wavehill.org; Sun- familiar and unfamiliar, that can be pick- 769-5100; www.amnh.org; Daily, 10 and Sundays, 10 am–1 pm, Now – Sun, days, 11:30 am– 1pm, Now – Sun, Aug. led. Create a passport of those you find, am–5:45 pm; Donations suggested. Oct. 31; Free (admission to the grounds 29; $22 pp, not including admission to and learn what it takes to pickle a plant. The exhibit recounts the most stirring to noon is free). grounds (Children under 3 free, 3-8 years Make your very own batch of pickles to tales of Antarctic exploration: the contest Art workshops. old $6.50 and 8-12 years old $13). savor back at home. to reach the South Pole in 1911-1912. Catered by Great Performances. Res- “Captain Marbles and his Acting Bird Watching: Van Cortlandt Park, Highlights include photographs, paint- ervations required by 4 pm on the Friday Squad”: Theatres at 45 Bleeker - Green Enter the park at W. 246th Street and ings, and rare historical artifacts as well before. *no brunch on July 18. Room Theater, 45 Bleeker Street; (212) Broadway; (718) 548-0912; www.nyc. as actual items of clothing and tools; life- 260-8250; www.iseats.net; Sundays, 11 Children’s Club: Fort Independence gov/parks/rangers; Free. sized models of portions of Amundsen’s am, Now – Sun, Aug. 29; $20. Houses’ Community Center, Bailey Av- The Van Cortlandt Bird Club invites and Scott’s base camps; and a diorama Dancing, singing, acting and audience enue and West 234th Street; (646) 358- you to watch and count with them each featuring the largest of all penguin spe- participation. For children three and up. 6096; Daily, 6:30 – 9 pm; Free. week through August. You never know cies alive today, the emperor penguin. (no show July 4). Boys & Girls Club of Mosholu Mon- what will fly. Beginners and experts wel- There are also interactive and hands-on tefiore Community Center offers after- come. Bring lunch, water, comfortable activities for all ages. Sunday Brunch: Wave Hill, West
26 BRONX Family • August 2010 Going Places shoes and of course binoculars if you Bronx Beat features West African have them. music, refreshments and a 21 string kora. Sun, Aug. 1 Sat, Aug. 7 T’s of Summer: Wave Hill, West 249th Spray a garden: Wave Hill, West St. and Independence Ave. (718) 549- 249th St. and Independence Ave. (718) 3200; www.wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; 549-3200; www.wavehill.org; 10am–1 Free with admission to grounds. pm; Free until noon. Explore and sketch the gardens and Paint the colors of summer. (Ecology woods. building). Colonial games: Van Cortlandt Park, Toddler Storytime: Barnes & Noble West 246th Street and Broadway; 311; Bay Plaza, 290 Baychester Ave; (718) 862- www.gov/parks/rangers; 11 am; Free. 3945; barnesandnoble.com; 11 am; Free. Find out what the children played. Classic fairy tales. For children 1 to 4 years of age. Sunday Brunch: Wave Hill, West 249th St. and Independence Ave. (718) Fun under the sea! Fishing: Barretto Point Park, Barretto 549-3200; www.wavehill.org; 11:30 Street and Tiffany Avenue; 311; www. am–1 pm; $22 pp, not including admis- f “The Little Mermaid” or tures musical styles ranging from gov/parks/rangers; 11 am; Free. “Finding Nemo” leaves you sion to grounds ($6.50 children 3-8; $13 swing to R&B to big band. Equipment supplied. For children 8 aching for more underwater To really feel in the middle of children 8-12). I and up. adventures, then the off-Broad- it all, get as close to the stage as Enjoy brunch catered by Great Perfor- way production of “ImaginOcean” possible, as the puppets come “Pinocchio”: Bronx Library Center, 310 mances. Reservations required by 4 pm is for you. out into the audience for a truly East Kingsbridge Road; (718) 579-4244; preceding Friday. This magical, live black-light engaging underwater experience. www.nypl.org; 2 pm; Free. puppet show is full of charac- “ImaginOcean” at New World Canoeing: Crotona Park, Charltotte Presented by the Traveling Lantern ters to fall in love with, as three Stages [340 W. 50th St. between Eight Street and Crotona Park East; 311; www. Theatre Company. Recommended for fish friends, Tank, Bubbles and and Ninth avenues in Manhattan gov/parks/rangers; noon; Free. Dorsel, set off on a journey that (646) 871-1730], now through Nov. 14 children ages 4 and older. Basics of canoeing. Fro ages 8 and up. finds them singing, dancing, mak- with shows Wednesday at 11 am and ing new friends, and finding their 2 pm, Saturday at 11 am, 2 pm and Sun, Aug. 8 Mon, Aug. 2 courage. 4:30 pm, and Sunday at noon and 3 Spray a garden: Wave Hill. See Satur- Garden workshop: Bartow Pell Man- In addition to the bright, vi- pm. Tickets $39-$65. For info, visit day, Aug. 7. sion Museum, 895 Shore Road; (718) brant sea creatures, the show fea- www.ImaginOceanTheMusical.com. Nature hike: Van Cortlandt Park, Mo- 885-1461; www.bpmm.org; 8:30 am–4 sholu Avenue and Broadway; 311; www. pm; $225 pp. Conscious Cravers - Ages 12 to 18. www.wavehill.org; 10–11 am; $15 ($20 nyc.gov/parks/rangers; 11 am; Free. 18 year olds learn the art of stone Make a cultural dish. All ingredients will non-members, one parent/one child)( $5 The Cass Gallagher HIke takes you masonry. be provided. For ages 12 - 18. each additional child). through the North Woods to search for Stories in the Garden: Wave Hill, All ages - all levels of fitness. seasonal wildflowers. West 249th St. and Independence Ave. Wed, Aug. 4 First Fridays: #6 Pelham Bay Park Canoeing: Canoe and Kayak Launch, (718) 549-3200; www.wavehill.org; 11 Garden workshop: 8:30 am–4 pm. subway station, Bruckner Blvd and Corner of Orchard Beach Park Lot; 311; am; Free. Bartow Pell Mansion Museum. See Mon- Westchester Avenue; tel: 718-885-1461; www.gov/parks/rangers; 11 am; Free. Mystery reader shares a story with day, Aug. 2. 5:30–8:30 pm; $8,($5 seniors & children The lagoon at Pelham Bay, for children children 3 and up. (meet at Perkins Visi- Films for children: Bronx Library 6–17, members free). 8 and up. tor Center). Center, 310 East Kingsbridge Road; (718) Hop on the Bronx Seaside trolley for Sunday Brunch: 11:30 am–1 pm. Reading aloud: Bronx Library Center, 579-4244; www.nypl.org; 2 pm; Free. a free ride to Bartow Pell Mansion Mu- Wave Hill. See Sunday, Aug. 1. 310 East Kingsbridge Road; (718) 579- Feature movie titles, varying in length seum, tour the mansion, listen to live 4244; www.nypl.org; 11 am; Free. from 90 minutes to 2 hours. For ages 5 music, and enjoy light refreshments. Mon, Aug. 9 Librarian shares favorite picture books. to 12 years old. Then hop back on the trolley to ride to For ages 3 to 8. City Island for a bite to eat or just to ex- Summer camp: Bartow Pell Mansion Thurs, Aug. 5 plore. The trolley makes a continuous Museum, 895 Shore Road; (718) 885- Tues, Aug. 3 1461; www.bpmm.org; 9 am–2 pm; Garden workshop: 8:30 am–4 pm. loop from the #6 Pelham Bay Park sub- $125 pp. Garden workshop: 8:30 am–4 pm. Bartow Pell Mansion Museum. See Mon- way station to BPMM to City Island. Reg- Children in grades 1 through 4 do Bartow Pell Mansion Museum. See Mon- day, Aug. 2. istration requested. crafts, play games. day, Aug. 2. First Friday: Bartow Pell Mansion Mu- Fri, Aug. 6 Reading aloud: 11 am. Bronx Library Summer Reading: Bronx Library seum, 895 Shore Road; (718) 885-1461; Center. See Monday, Aug. 2. Center, 310 East Kingsbridge Road; (718) Family Yoga: Wave Hill, West 249th St. www.bpmm.org; 5:30–8:30 pm; $8 ($5 579-4244; www.nypl.org; 4 pm; Free. and Independence Ave. (718) 549-3200; children and seniors; members free). Continued on page 28 August 2010 • BRONX Family 27 Going Places
Continued from page 27 Storytime Beach Party: Barnes & and Independence Ave. (718) 549-3200; skills. For ages 7 to 12 years old. (Limited Tues, Aug. 10 Noble Bay Plaza, 290 Baychester Ave; www.wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; Free to 30 children only.) (718) 862-3945; barnesandnoble.com; 11 until Noon. Summer camp: 9 am–2 pm. Bartow am; Free. Paint the gold fish in the aquatic gar- Fri, Aug. 27 Pell Mansion Museum. See Monday, Come dressed in your favorite beach den and turn papers bags into 3D fish. Aug. 9. Family Yoga: 10–11 am. Wave Hill. See gear for some fun in the sun. Get ready for School: Barnes & Friday, Aug. 6. Stories in the Garden: 11 am. Wave Noble Bay Plaza, 290 Baychester Ave; Hill. See Monday, Aug. 2. Sun, Aug. 15 (718) 862-3945; barnesandnoble.com; 11 Sat, Aug. 28 Get your game on: Bronx Library Flutter with Butterflies: 10 am–1 am; Free. Be a bee: Wave Hill, West 249th St. pm. Wave Hill. See Saturday, Aug. 14. Center, 310 East Kingsbridge Road; (718) Your little one is off to school, stop by and Independence Ave. (718) 549-3200; 579-4244; www.nypl.org; 3 pm; Free. Sunday Brunch: 11:30 am–1 pm. the learning stations where you’ll find www.wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; Free Play Wii, PS3, and Xbox games at the Wave Hill. See Sunday, Aug. 1. helpful hints and the latest educational until Noon. Library. For ages 8 to 12 years old. Lim- tools all designed to help your child suc- Examine the bee from antennae to ited to 35 children. Mon, Aug. 16 ceed in school. For grades pre-K-5. wings. Summer Reading: 4 pm. Bronx Li- Reading aloud: 11 am. Bronx Library Nature talk: Van Cortlandt Park, West Trail Hike: Van Cortlandt Park, West brary Center. See Tuesday, Aug. 3. Center. See Monday, Aug. 2. 246th Street and Broadway; (718) 548- 246th Street and Broadway; (718) 548- 0912; www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers; 1 0912; www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers; 11 Wed, Aug. 11 Tues, Aug. 17 pm; free. am; free. Summer camp: 9 am–2 pm. Bartow Stories in the Garden: 11 am. Wave Learn about snapping, slider and Enjoy the beauty of Van Cortlandt Park Pell Mansion Museum. See Monday, Hill. See Monday, Aug. 2. painted turtles that live in the lake. and learn about New York City’s first Aug. 9. water supply. Wed, Aug. 18 Stories from around the world: Films for children: 2 pm. Bronx Li- Bronx Library Center, 310 East Kings- “Treasure Island: Bronx Library Cen- Films for children: 2 pm. Bronx Li- brary Center. See Wednesday, Aug. 4. bridge Road; (718) 579-4244; www.nypl. ter, 310 East Kingsbridge Road; (718) brary Center. See Wednesday, Aug. 4. org; 2 pm; Free. 579-4244; www.nypl.org; 2 pm; Free. Thurs, Aug. 12 Owls: Bartow Pell Mansion Museum, Presented by Getchie Argetsinger for Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic. Meet Summer camp: 9 am–2 pm. Bartow 895 Shore Road; (718) 885-1461; www. children of all ages. Long John Silver and his band of ma- bartowpellmansionmuseum.org/events/ rauding pirates, while on an exciting jour- Pell Mansion Museum. See Monday, Sun, Aug. 22 Aug. 9. calendar.php; 7 pm; $10 ($8 members). ney across the seven seas. Presented by Join Dr. Robert DeCandido, Ph.D., and Fishy Fun: 10 am–1 pm. Wave Hill. See the Hampstead Stage Company. For ages Arts and crafts: Bronx Library Center, learn about owls, their habitats, and how Saturday, Aug. 21. 5 and older. 310 East Kingsbridge Road; (718) 579- to find them. Registration requested. 4244; www.nypl.org; 3 pm; Free. Canoeing: 11 am. Canoe and Kayak Owls: Bartow Pell Mansion Museum, Sun, Aug. 29 Hands-on projects using a variety of Launch. See Sunday, Aug. 8. 895 Shore Road; (718) 885-1461; www. Be a bee: 10 am–1 pm. Wave Hill. See skills. For ages 7 to 12 years old. (Limited bpmm.org; 7:30 pm; $10 ($8 members). Sunday Brunch: 11:30 am–1 pm. Saturday, Aug. 28. to 30 children only.) Learn about the night bird. Wave Hill. See Sunday, Aug. 1. Bike tour: Orchard Beach Nature Cen- Fri, Aug. 13 Thurs, Aug. 19 Mon, Aug. 23 ter, Orchard Beach; (718) 885-3466; Summer camp: 9 am–2 pm. Bartow www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers; 11 am; Arts and crafts: Bronx Library Center, Reading aloud: 11 am. Bronx Library Pell Mansion Museum. See Monday, Free. 310 East Kingsbridge Road; (718) 579- Center. See Monday, Aug. 2. Aug. 9. Take a ride from the Orchard Beach 4244; www.nypl.org; 3 pm; Free. Nature Center to Van Cortlandt Park. Family Yoga: 10–11 am. Wave Hill. See City Door Hanger Making - for ages 7 Tues, Aug. 24 Bring helmet, sunblock, water and your Friday, Aug. 6. to 12 years old. (Limited to 30 children Stories in the Garden: 11 am. Wave bike. only.) Camping: Van Cortlandt Park, West Hill. See Monday, Aug. 2. Tues, Aug. 31 246th Street and Broadway; 311; www. Fri, Aug. 20 Get your game on: 3 pm. Bronx Li- gov/parks/rangers; 6 pm; Free. Stories in the Garden: 11 am. Wave Family Yoga: 10–11 am. Wave Hill. See brary Center. See Tuesday, Aug. 10. Families BBQ, pitch a tent and enjoy Hill. See Monday, Aug. 2. Friday, Aug. 6. nature on a night hike. Wed, Aug. 25 “Madagascar”: Willis Avenue Com- Sat, Sep. 4 Sat, Aug. 14 munity Garden, 401 East 143rd Street / Films for children: 2 pm. Bronx Li- Nature hike: Pelham Bay Park, Bruck- 378-382 Willis Avenue; www.nyrp.org; brary Center. See Wednesday, Aug. 4. Flutter with Butterflies: Wave Hill, ner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue; 7:30 pm; Free. West 249th St. and Independence Ave. (718) 885-3467; www.nyc.gov/parks/ New York Restoration Project presents Thurs, Aug. 26 (718) 549-3200; www.wavehill.org; 10 rangers; 1 pm; Free. Family Movie Nights. Arts and crafts: Bronx Library Center, am–1 pm; Free, until noon. Search for migrating monarchs before 310 East Kingsbridge Road; (718) 579- Sketch them, flying and zipping the depart for the southern journey to Sat, Aug. 21 4244; www.nypl.org; 3 pm; Free. through the flowers. (Ecology Building). Mexico. Fishy Fun: Wave Hill, West 249th St. Hands-on projects using a variety of
28 BRONX Family • August 2010 It figures By Cynthia Washam School SnippetS
Percent of South Number of students who took 58: Korean 90,000:classes through the Florida school children Virtual School, a service providing high-school who get courses online. tutoring outside of school.
Percent of Percent of schools in 25: American children. 71: the U.S. that reduced time spent teaching subjects such as music, art and geo- graphy after the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 tied federal funding to schools’ progress in English and math.
Minimal 15:minutes of recess time per day teachers say is needed to improve children’s 1½ to 1¾: classroom behavior. Average hours per night Percent of children ages 8 — 13 spend on school districts homework. 22: nationwide that cut recess time in Average hours per week the wake of parents spend helping 3: No Child Left with homework. Behind.
Percent of elementary- 50: school students who eat fruit with their school lunch.
Percent of high-school Percent of students who use cursive 25: students. 15:on the written portion of the SAT college entrance exam. Percent of 70: students who eat fruit when a cafeteria Number of British school children, some worker suggests 200: as young as 13, who were reported by it. their teachers to police as terrorism suspects.
Sources: Natural Awakenings, Education Week, The Center for Public Education, Current Events, Education Week, Nutrition Week, Newsweek, Boingboing.net
August 2010 • BRONX Family 29 Technology Using online filters
t’s a rare parent who hasn’t features, but for parents who know to infuse conscience into computing thought about installing filtering what they need, the following pro- and spares you the $100 price tag for I or monitoring software on the grams offer a reliable service at the more sophisticated spyware. family computer. It’s an even rarer unbeatable price of free. Just keep • W i n d ow s Live Family Safety parent who doesn’t feel confused in mind that a child with an Internet- (http://explore.live.com/windows- by the many choices and resentful enabled cellphone can circumvent live-family-safety) is ideal for fam- about the cost. “Youth Safety on a any controls installed on the home ilies that use Messenger, Hotmail GrowinG Up Living Internet,” a recent report from computer: and other Windows features. In ad- the government’s Online Safety and • Toddler Keys is a little program dition to three pre-set levels of fil- online Technology Group, acknowledges written by a dad to protect his com- tering, parents can block or allow Carolyn Jabs that parents face a bewildering vari- puter from little hands. It allows you specific Web sites. Parents can also ety of product choices. to lock up the keyboard as well as restrict conversations so kids can Many commercial products, such power buttons, CD drives and the only communicate with people on an as Net Nanny, CyberPatrol and Safe mouse. If a curious toddler presses approved buddy list. Eyes, have established reputations a key, she gets sounds and pictures, • I m s a fe r (www.imsafer.com) uses for effectiveness. Now, parents can but no access to files or programs. a language analysis program that find free parental Toddler Keys can be downloaded understands English as well as the controls if they with confidence from download. acronyms typical of chat and in- know where to cnet.com. Just search for the name stant messaging. It keeps track of look. The kind of the program. both sides of online conversations of tool you need • KidSurf (www.kid-surf.com) and sends you an alert if your child depends both on costs $5.99, but that modest price strays into territory that is sexual or your child’s age may be worth it to parents of kids threatening. a n d te m p e r a m e n t . under 8. It creates a very simple but • N o r to n Online Family (https:// Filtering limits a appealing interface for the Internet. onlinefamily.norton.com) is, by far, child’s access to You choose the sites your child can the most sophisticated of the free the various as- visit, and the program blocks every- programs. Norton, of course, sells pects of the Inter- thing else, including pop-ups and cutting-edge technology for Inter- net, minimizing links. There’s also a timer so you can net security. Its free family software the risk that kids decide when online time is over. makes it very easy to monitor Web will encounter • Parental Control Bar (www.pa- sites your child visits and blocks people or places rentalcontrolbar.org) will filter Web any that are unacceptable. Just as they are too sites to be sure they are kid-friendly. useful, the program lets you monitor young to handle. You can easily modify the list to chats and searches and gives you Parents can point block — or approve — different a limited window into your child’s children toward sites. A button makes it easy for the social networking habits. Perhaps specific Web sites person who knows the password to most important, the Web site offers that they know to flip from child to parent mode. valuable advice about how to talk to be family-friendly, • K 9 Web Protection, provided free your child about online activities, as or they can de- by Bluecoat, a company that special- well as up-to-the-minute insight into pend on software izes in corporate Internet security, what kids are actually doing online that screens out offers a checklist so parents can and a community where parents can Parents can find free sites that are decidedly not for kids. block content in 60 categories and share their experiences. Older children need to learn how gives you access to a “cloud” where Norton’s take-away message is parental controls — to make responsible decisions on- the database is constantly being up- that, in the end, the only way to re- that’s right, free — if line. While they are in training, par- dated. One drawback — there is no ally know about your child’s online ents may want to use accountability child mode — once a site is blocked, experience is to talk to your child. they know where to look. software that provides detailed in- no one in the family can visit it. Still, it’s comforting to know that formation about what a child does • Kidlogger (www.rohos.com/kid- parents now have access to free online. Used surreptitiously as “spy- logger/s) is a very simple program tools that will allow them to, in the ware,” this kind of software can dis- that records keystrokes so you can word’s of a former president, “trust rupt trust between parent and child. see what Web sites your child has and verify.” Instead, parents should explain what visited, who he chatted with, what Carolyn Jabs, MA, has been writing kind of monitoring they plan to do, documents he opened and what pic- about families and the Internet for over and why. Just like curfews, the level tures he viewed. It can create differ- 15 years. She is the mother of three of monitoring should be adjusted as ent logs for different users and in- computer-savvy kids. Other Growing Up the child demonstrates maturity. cludes a screen capture feature. Sim- Online columns appear on her Web site Parental control software that you ply telling your child you’ve installed www.growing-up-online.com. purchase may have a wider range of the software is an inexpensive way Copyright, 2010, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.
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August 2010 • BRONX Family 31 New & Noteworthy Lay, baby, lay Finally, Bob Zim- For more colorful merman’s face can flare, there’s a be plastered on your band onesie for baby! Wilco, as well With onesies and T- as a smiling ice shirts from Truly Sanc- cream cone that’s tuary, the likeness of the most child-ap- the mans more com- propriate. monly know as Bob They’re great for your Dylan, along with little one, or for your next those of Elvis Presley baby shower. Because not and Michael Jackson, everyone’s into blue and are recreated in bold pink. black and white graph- For more info, visit www. ics for the world to see. etsy.com/shop/trulysanctuary. Bathtime gets sweeter You don’t wash you child’s that newborn smell, the prod- face and hair with just any ucts also have a soft natural soap or shampoo. That’s scent derived from an oil blend where products like Baby of lavender, chamomile and Oh Baby come in. orange. These organic, herbal For when your little one Money in the bank shampoos, body wash, gets older, she can move and lotions for babies are on to Rainbow’s kids line, Feed the pig! ors for the name and polka dots, made with natural ingredi- which include shampoo, It’s never too early to start saving, from apple green to sunshine yellow, ents that will gently clean soap, hand sanitizer and, and, with these personalized piggy as well as adding a bow or bow tie as your newborn — and avoid just for fun, bubble bath. banks, it’s never been cuter. she see’s fit. tears in the process. For more information, visit With these — of course — pig- Just avoid the classic move of Though nothing can beat www.rainbowresearch.com. shaped banks, the pennies can start breaking the bank once it’s all full; adding up. these little piggies are too precious Your child can make it her own to destroy. too, by personalizing it with her For more info, visit www.etsy.com/ For budding green thumbs name choosing from among 16 col- CherryBlossomPaperCo. Need some “help” in the garden? Have your little one get an lesson in ecology thanks to this handy garden- ing tool set for children from Wrapables. With these kid-sized shovels and Just in time picks, your child can easily dig up You might be a ways away from dirt, plant seeds, water the soil, and teaching your child how to tell the watch the plants come to life. difference between the minute hand The tools can be stored and car- and the hour hand, but it’s never too ried in a colorful nylon case, so you early to start. Besides, these clocks won’t misplace a thing. are too cute to pass up. For more information on The designs perfectly evoke child- the Sagaform Kids Garden- hood, from the zoo animals of one, ing Tool Set, visit www. to the whimsy of a girl blowing a Wrapables.com. dandelion in another. Other graph- ics on these Kona Interiors-de- signed timepieces, include vibrant, multi-colored stripes, fairy tale-like castles, trucks, cute forest scenes, your existing little one’s and flowers, perfect for many per- theme. It’ll be a piece you can trea- sonalities. sure throughout childhood. The frames and hand colors can For info, visit www.etsy.com/shop/ also easily be changed to match KonaInteriors. 32 BRONX Family • August 2010 wwwwww.webfamilyny.com.familyresourceny.com
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