Staten Island FAMILY • April 2012 Children at Play Early Intervention Center 40 Merrill Ave Staten Island, NY 10314 (718) 370-7529 [email protected]

Staten Island FAMILY • April 2012 Children at Play Early Intervention Center 40 Merrill Ave Staten Island, NY 10314 (718) 370-7529 Cap@Childrenatplayeic.Org

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VARICOSE VEIN SCREENING Free screenings from 1PM to 6PM THURSDAY APRIL 256 Mason Avenue, Building26 B, 2nd Floor CALL 718.226.6800 Staten island Family April 2012 Features 6 Earth celebration Tompkinsville hosts an interactive discovery day with emphasis on family fun By Shavana Abruzzo 12 Make a difference during Autism Awareness Month By Rebecca McKee 14 Stop struggling with the juggling 28 Here are some tips on how to balance family, work, friends, and personal time, so you feel less stressed By Sandra Gordon 18 Homesick blues 10 ways for parents to help their little campers adjust 26 Playing it safe Tips on preventing Little League injuries By Tony Wanich, MD 28 Big fun on a small budget Birthday parties that won’t break the bank By Candi Sparks 32 It can’t be easy, being a baby One dad’s thoughts on why newborns put up such a fight when trying anything new By Tim Perrins 34 Find new use for old clothes 32 with a quilt Turn your child’s baby clothes into a family heirloom 28 By Kathy Sena 40 Money doesn’t buy happiness columns Psychologist’s new book finds the best things in 10 Family Health life are free By Saidi Clemente, MD By Allison Plitt 16 Mommy 101 calendar of events By Angelica Seradova 36 Ask an Attorney 45 Going Places By Alison Arden Besunder, Esq. 38 Take the family out and find out what’s going on in your town 38 Healthy Living by Danielle Sullivan special sections 42 The Book Worm By Terri Schlichenmeyer 20 Camps/Programs Directory 30 Party Directory 43 Parents Helping Parents by Sharon C. Peters 50 New & Noteworthy The hottest new products

April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 3 Letter from the publisher NYC is on our planet Earth

aving been in- food casually thrown clean-up team and recruit others to show your kids that this is a priority volved in the in the streets, cigarette get on the team too. Maybe it’s orga- you have set and that you are willing H Earth Day move- butts everywhere, and nizing our blocks for regular clean- to get involved in helping even if you ment for a long time, I bottles, cans and other ups and thereby giving our kids that weren’t the ones who did it. can only say, that here refuse tossed onto the example to experience personally. Without a doubt, we can all make in New York there re- streets or thrown to We need to train them and ourselves a difference. This is our planet. This mains a real lack of the curbs. to not be accepting of the mess and is where we live and this is where awareness on the part This is outrageous the clutter. We all need to stop and our children will live. Let’s help them of the average citizen, and the only explana- pick up the papers as they fly by, not by cleaning up the backyards and in comparison to other tion one can find for walk over them. front yards of our fair city and get- large cities both here this ongoing condition This is an ongoing task that will ting them to be on the team too. in the US and in Western Europe. is that most people feel “it’s some- only make a dent if done with regu- Happy Spring and as always We lag behind and the streets of body else’s job” to clean it up. “Not larity and conviction. We are urging thanks so much for reading and our city are a testament to that my job; not my mess; not my block; every parent to teach their kids by thanks for helping us become award fact. not my washroom; not my side- example that this is our planet earth winning magazines. Your loyalty is Paper is floating everywhere, walk; not my corner”, seems to be and that each and every one of us much appreciated. there are plastic bags hung up in the general and pervasive attitude. can and does make a difference. We many of our trees and even seem- How can we change this? I believe must encourage their participation ingly educated, intelligent people the answer lies with our children and discourage complacency and have become apparently immune and the emphasis and responsibil- the avoidance of responsibility. to the mess. Cavalierly, most peo- ity we encourage them to have in Sweeping your street every week, ple walk past newspapers blow- relation to the whole environment. or bending to pick up the papers ing down the sidewalk, half-eaten I believe we all have to get on the that have been tossed down will help Susan Weiss-Voskidis, Publisher

STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION

PUBLISHER / EXECUTIVE EDITOR: ADVERTISING: WEB OR PRINT ADDRESS Susan Weiss (718) 260-4554 New York Parenting Media/CNG PUBLISHER / BUSINESS MANAGER: [email protected] or 1 Metrotech Center North Clifford Luster [email protected] 10th Floor SALES MANAGER / ADVERTISING: Brooklyn, NY 11201 Sharon Noble CIRCULATION SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: (718) 260-8336 www.NYParenting.com Tina Felicetti [email protected] SALES REPS: Lori Falco, Sharon Leverett, EDITORIAL Stephanie Stellaccio, Jay Pelc (718) 260-4554 ART DIRECTOR: Leah Mitch [email protected] PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: On Man Tse

Mr. John Doe Auust, 25th 2008 123 Consectetuer Rd. Sed Diam, NC 11200

To Whom It May Concern:

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tinci- dunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis autem vel eum iriure dolor in hendrerit in vulputate velit esse molestie consequat, vel illum dolore eu feugiat nulla facilisis at vero eros et accumsan et iusto odio dignissim qui blandit praesent luptatum zzril delenit augue duis dolore te feugait nulla facilisi.

Epsum factorial non deposit quid pro quo hic escorol. Olypian quarrels et gorilla congolium sic ad nauseum. Souvlaki ignitus carborundum e pluribus FULL unum. DAY Defacto PRESCHOOL lingo est igpay atinlay. Mar- quee selectus non provisio incongruousFeaturing feline small nolo class contendre. sizes and innovative Gratuitous teaching octopus for niacin, 3 & 4 year sodium olds. Letter from the publisher glutimate. Quote meon an estimate et non interruptusHours stadium.: 11:15 AM Sic- 4:15 tempus PM fugit esperanto hiccup estrogen. Glorious baklava ex librusCall for hup information hey ad about infinitum. our general Non education sequitur tuition condominium rates. facile et geranium incognito. Epsum factorial non AVAILABLE deposit quid pro NOW quo hic escorol. Marquee selectus non provisio incongruous feline nolo contendre Olypian quarrels et gorilla congolium sic ad nauseum. Souvlaki ignitus carborundumHALF DAY e pluribusCPSE unum. SPECIAL EDUCATION CLASS NYC is on our planet Earth Call to learn about our CPSE and private therapy programs. “Fabulous Fingers” Sincerley, Register NOW aving been in- food casually thrown clean-up team and recruit others to show your kids that this is a priority for 6 WEEK a handwriting program for young children (PreK - K) volved in the in the streets, cigarette get on the team too. Maybe it’s orga- you have set and that you are willing SUMMER CAMP SESSION! H Earth Day move- butts everywhere, and nizing our blocks for regular clean- to get involved in helping even if you to develop a strong foundation ment for a long time, I bottles, cans and other ups and thereby giving our kids that weren’t the ones who did it. for both ﬁne motor dexterity can only say, that here refuse tossed onto the example to experience personally. Without a doubt, we can all make Also available for eligible students- and handwriting in a fun, in New York there re- streets or thrown to We need to train them and ourselves a difference. This is our planet. This SEIT/Related Services interactive environment. mains a real lack of the curbs. to not be accepting of the mess and is where we live and this is where (ages 2.6 - 5 years old) awareness on the part This is outrageous the clutter. We all need to stop and our children will live. Let’s help them Openings now for PRIVATE, 1:1, Jane Dough and RSAs (ages 5 - 8 years old). of the average citizen, and the only explana- pick up the papers as they fly by, not by cleaning up the backyards and handwriting skill building instruction. in comparison to other tion one can find for walk over them. front yards of our fair city and get- SENIOR VP OF OPERATIONS. large cities both here this ongoing condition This is an ongoing task that will ting them to be on the team too. Call 718-370-7529 ext. 28 Next GROUP handwriting program in the US and in Western Europe. is that most people feel “it’s some- only make a dent if done with regu- Happy Spring and as always begins July 9, 2012. We lag behind and the streets of body else’s job” to clean it up. “Not larity and conviction. We are urging thanks so much for reading and for information about our city are a testament to that my job; not my mess; not my block; every parent to teach their kids by thanks for helping us become award any of our programs. fact. not my washroom; not my side- example that this is our planet earth winning magazines. Your loyalty is Located at 40 Merrill Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10314 CALL FOR MORE INFO Paper is floating everywhere, walk; not my corner”, seems to be and that each and every one of us much appreciated. and program fee. there are plastic bags hung up in the general and pervasive attitude. can and does make a difference. We Email- [email protected], Website- [email protected] many of our trees and even seem- How can we change this? I believe must encourage their participation Children At Play (CAP) is funded by the NYS and NYC Dept. of Education for eligible students. CAP admits students of any race, color, nationality and ethnic origin. ingly educated, intelligent people the answer lies with our children and discourage complacency and have become apparently immune and the emphasis and responsibil- the avoidance of responsibility. to the mess. Cavalierly, most peo- ity we encourage them to have in Sweeping your street every week, ple walk past newspapers blow- relation to the whole environment. or bending to pick up the papers ing down the sidewalk, half-eaten I believe we all have to get on the that have been tossed down will help Susan Weiss-Voskidis, Publisher

STAFF CONTACT INFORMATION

LAYOUT MANAGER: Yvonne Farley The acceptance of advertising by New York Join the conversation on Facebook. WEB DESIGNER: Sylvan Migdal Parenting Media does not constitute an endorse- New York Parenting Media has been recognized GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Arthur Arutyunov, ment of the products, services or information for editorial and design excellence by PPA. Charlotte Carter, Mauro Deluca, Earl Ferrer being advertised. We do not knowingly present any products or services that are fraudu lent or New York Parenting Media is published monthly misleading in nature. by New York Parenting Media/CNG. Subscription rate is $35 annually. Reproduction of New York MANAGING EDITOR: Vince DiMiceli Editorial inquiries, calendar information, adver- Parenting Media in whole or part without writ- ASSISTANT EDITORS: Courtney Donahue, tising rates and schedules and subscription re- ten permission from the publisher is prohibited. Juliet Linderman quests may be addressed to New York Parenting All rights reserved. Copyright©2012 Readership: th Media, One Metrotech Center North, 10 Floor, 220,000. 2012 circulation audits by CAC & CVC. COPY EDITOR: Lisa J. Curtis Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. CALENDAR EDITOR: Joanna Del Buono New York Parenting Media can also be reached CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: by calling (718) 250-4554, emailing family@ Risa Doherty, Allison Plitt, Candi Sparks, cnglocal.com or by visiting our website, Laura Varoscak, Mary Carroll Wininger NYParenting.com. April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 5 AROUND TOWN Earth celebration Tompkinsville BY SHAVANA ABRUZZO arth rocks! hosts an You and the kids will come E away with a greater appreciation of our unique planet, plus interactive discover cool ways to care for its incredible biodiversity — from iden- discovery day tifying critters and plants that live in your garden, to harvesting rainfall with emphasis using a bike, while watching a 35- foot “dragon” hash it out with “St. George.” All you have to do is mark on family fun your calendars! Earth Day is around the corner, and the Community As- sociation of Tompkinsville Photo by Sri Walpola Park Promoting (Above) Twirlers like the Tribe Hamsa Belly Dancers are set to Fun and Whimsy wow — again! (At left) Students from the College of Staten — as if any more Island’s International High School perform a dragon dance at needed to be a past Earth Day event. said! — will cel- Photo by Richard Wonder ebrate the world’s largest, interna- from local artists, vendors, readings, The dragon theme extends to Fido. tional, environmental event at Tomp- and a kids stage — all to raise aware- Dress up the family pooch and enter kinsville Park on April 21 with a fun- ness about Mother Nature. him or her in the doggie dragon con- packed, interactive, family day of edu- The day’s theme is St. George, the test for bragging rights and other cational spectacles, demonstrations, Christian martyr who — legend has it rewards. and activities to help us preserve — slew a dragon during the Crusades. Earth Day has been a part of our energy and respect our habitat. In case you’re wondering about the national and international celebra- The Sixth Annual St. George Day connection between the two obser- tions since 1970 when its founder — Festival promises something for ev- vances — St. George Day is celebrated Sen. Gaylord Anton Nelson from Wis- eryone — rain or shine. on April 23, one day after Earth Day consin — established “a national day There will be a Great Tree Walk which typically falls on April 22. (Alas, for the environment” because he felt of the Neighborhood; a City Harvest St. George, the neighborhood, didn’t that “the economy is a wholly-owned cooking exhibit of healthy and natu- derive its name from the saint, but subsidiary of the environment, not ral foods; a recycling relay race; and a from George Law, a developer who ac- the other way around.” Stop ‘N’ Swap, hosted by Grow N.Y.C., quired rights to the waterfront.) Folks on the North Shore have where you can bring your unwanted The warrior, however, and his nem- taken that sentiment to heart, and items for other visitors to take home. esis, an impressive 18-foot behemoth are using it as a tool to empower their Remember, one person’s trash is an- toted by 18 people, will appear in a communities. other’s recyclable treasure. giant puppet show about water con- “We are creating a joyous and cel- Representatives from the Lower servation in which man and beast re- ebratory environment in which we East Side Ecology Center will also be solve their differences peacefully. can bring people together to share on hand to alert you about disposing Be prepared to similarly “ooh” and ideas and celebrate our neighbor- of your electronic waste correctly, “aah” during the parade of dragons, a hood,” said association spokes- and New York City Compost Project pageant-worthy cavalcade featuring woman Jenny Lytton. will lead a fertilizing workshop, so that eight, enormous, homespun beasts, The Sixth Annual St. George Day Fes- your flowers and veggies will be the including a “trash dragon” made out tival will take place on April 21, noon-8 talk of the neighborhood. of recycled materials by the Green pm [Tompkinsville Park, Bay Street and Creative types are in for a treat, Teens from the Parks Department. Victory Boulevard, in Tompkinsville]. In as well. They’re invited to come and The roving, three-headed dragon will the event of rain, activities will be held champion alternatives to gas-powered be hard to miss as it picks up litter at 208 Bay Street, between Victory Bou- vehicles on an interactive mural. which you can help transform into a levard and Hannah Street in Tompkins- Other activities include exhibits giant metal topiary serpent. ville; http://www.stgeorgedaysi.com.

6 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 Epilepsy: Knowledge is Power Patient Education Conference Saturday, May 5, 2012 Hilton Garden Inn 8:30am-9:00am: Registration & FREE Breakfast 1100 South Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10314 9:00 am-Noon: Program Program: $IAGNOSISªANDª4REATMENTª/PTIONSª.EWªANDªNEWERªsªSalah Mesad, M.D. %PILEPSYª4REATMENTªANDª)SSUESªINª-ENªANDª7OMENª4HEYªAREªNOTªTHEªSAMEªsªEvan Fertig, M.D. -EMORYª0ROBLEMSª!REªTHEREªANYªTREATMENTS ªsªRobert Trobliger, Ph.D. %PILEPSYª.ATURALª4REATMENTSª7HATªYOUªNEEDªTOªKNOWªsªEvan Fertig, M.D. To register call (914) 428-9213 option 6 or [email protected] or register online at www.epilepsylifelinks.com 3:2;41;)22).- 4!+)37;%!+3(;.5%1!'% ()+$;%!+3(;+42;6)3(;)$%+)2;!1%; 9;1%%;.1;+.6#.23;(%!+3(;)-241!-#%;#.5%1!'%;&.1;#()+$1%-;4/;3. !'%;;)-;%6; .1*;3!3%; 9;(%#*4/2;6)3(;7.41;#()+$:2;$.#3.1; 9;,,4-)8!3).-2;2(.32 9;.2/)3!+;!-$;%,%1'%-#7;#!1% 9;1%2#1)/3).-;$14';#.5%1!'% 9;%-3!+;!-$;5)2).-;#!1% 9;/%%#(;!-$;(%!1)-';2%15)#%2 9;.1%;3(!-; ;04!+)37;/1.5)$%12; 1..&;.&;!'%;)-#.,%;!-$;!$$1%22;-%#%22!17;3.;%-1.++ Child Health Plus is a New York State-sponsored Some children who had employer-based health insurance coverage within the past six months may be subject to a waiting period before they health insurance program offered by Fidelis Care. can enroll in Child Health Plus. This will depend on your household income and the reason your children lost employer-based coverage.

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April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 7 The judge’s comments: “Packed with useful, actionable information, these columns inspire us to move and get out and play! Nicely written, and full of reflective detail. These columns go deep into the subject Our magazines matter, offering not only destina- November 2011 Party Guide tions for families but a lot of history FREE about the places as well.” BROOKLYN Fall sOverall Writing: Our Brooklyn Family magazine took home the association’s most prestigious writing award. The judge’s comments: “A bright, win nine awards well-written magazine. The high- Family The Best Guide for Parents light is the collection of columns ew York Parenting Media took home nine that bring a variety of voices to each issue. Some are by writers awards from the recent Parenting Media with expertise in the field. Others Association Editorial and Design Awards are personal essays. They are all N well written. There are well written Dinner, in San Antonio, Texas. features too.” Susan Weiss, publisher and execu- Publisher and Executive Editor tive editor and Sharon Noble, sales Susan Weiss was thrilled as she manager, were thrilled to be present accepted the award, and thanked at the dinner to accept six finalists her entire team, including Manag- awards and three gold winners in ing Editor Vince DiMicili, Art Direc- a variety of categories for Brooklyn tor Leah Mitch, Production Man- Family, Queens Family, Bronx-Riv- ager On Man Tse, Layout Manager erdale Family, Staten Island Family, Yvonne Farley, Calendar Editor Jo- New York Special Child, and Long anna DelBuono, and Assistant Edi- Island Special Child. tor Courtney Donohue. The awards recognize excellence “Proudly, we accepted these fine in journalism, photography and de- awards on behalf of our excellent sign, and are judged by a panel from staff of freelance writers, staff writ- Here come the University of Missouri School ers, and copy editor Lisa J. Curtis,” of Journalism. Prof. Daryl Moen she said. coordinated the annual contest. A When asked about the nine the holidays! panel of 22 judges reviewed entries awards for this year, Weiss hastened from many publications to choose to add that in addition to Varoscak Shape up now the winners in each category. All and Brown, the magazines contribu- judges drew upon significant profes- tors include a roster of talented sional experience in selecting the writers including Risa Doherty, Al- winners. lison Plitt, Candi Sparks and Mary “The quality of the entries con- Carroll Wininger. tinues to rise,” noted Moen. “Some “Our superb contributors and Find us online at www.NYParenting.com of the design categories, including regular columnists and essayists feature and publication design, are make my work so satisfying,” Weiss magnificent. In writing, there are continued “We are so fortunate as to Our November cover. dozens of writing entries, particu- have partnered with many talented larly in the column categories, that and dedicated parents and profes- are outstanding, and the competi- sionals who have brought their ex- tion is stiff.” pertise and interest in the parenting That said, our gold-award-win- world to us. These magazines are ners deserve special mention and put together with love and devotion congratulations: by everyone on the team. We love s0ERSONAL %SSAY For Laura what we do and we love being par- Varoscak and Wanda Troy-Regier’s (Clockwise from top) Sharon Noble, Parenting Media Association President Joanna ents. It’s what drives us and makes the image for every cover and works array of work and talent presented moving account and memories of Love, and Susan Weiss at the PMA Awards Dinner; Monica Brown; Laura Varoscak. this so very meaningful.” with Mitch to make sure that every at these awards dinners. To have teaching in Downtown Brooklyn In addition to the editorial cover is special. our magazines be included — and and Lower Manhattan “Ten Years felt essays by teachers who experi- rather than being sad testaments, awards, the cover or our November Additionally, the cover for New be winners — is a dream come Later — Teachers Talk 9-11.” ence that dramatic and sad day in they offer hope that any situation 2011 issue, which featured a baby York Special Child Fall-Winter Issue true,” said Weiss. “We work hard 4HE JUDGES COMMENTS “When New York City with their classes. can be overcome.” outfitted in a turkey costume, was was also a finalist-winner. and strive for excellence and it’s you think you’ve read everything The stories are acarefully con- s & A M I L Y &UN For Monica Brown’s singled out for a design award. “Over the years that we have thrilling to know that we have suc- imaginable about 9-11, these New structed around the significant mo- “Around Town” columns in Staten Is- “I was particularly fond of that been a member of Parenting Media ceeded. We will continue to reach York magazines produce two heart- ments and lessons of the day. And land Family. “turkey” ”, said Weiss, who picks out Association, I have seen such a fine high in the years ahead.”

8 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 The judge’s comments: “Packed with useful, actionable information, these columns inspire us to move and get out and play! Nicely written, and full of reflective detail. These columns go deep into the subject Our magazines matter, offering not only destina- November 2011 Party Guide tions for families but a lot of history FREE about the places as well.” BROOKLYN Fall sOverall Writing: Our Brooklyn Family magazine took home the association’s most prestigious writing award. The judge’s comments: “A bright, win nine awards well-written magazine. The high- Family The Best Guide for Parents light is the collection of columns ew York Parenting Media took home nine that bring a variety of voices to each issue. Some are by writers awards from the recent Parenting Media with expertise in the field. Others Association Editorial and Design Awards are personal essays. They are all N well written. There are well written Dinner, in San Antonio, Texas. features too.” Susan Weiss, publisher and execu- Publisher and Executive Editor tive editor and Sharon Noble, sales Susan Weiss was thrilled as she manager, were thrilled to be present accepted the award, and thanked at the dinner to accept six finalists her entire team, including Manag- awards and three gold winners in ing Editor Vince DiMicili, Art Direc- a variety of categories for Brooklyn tor Leah Mitch, Production Man- Family, Queens Family, Bronx-Riv- ager On Man Tse, Layout Manager erdale Family, Staten Island Family, Yvonne Farley, Calendar Editor Jo- New York Special Child, and Long anna DelBuono, and Assistant Edi- Island Special Child. tor Courtney Donohue. The awards recognize excellence “Proudly, we accepted these fine in journalism, photography and de- awards on behalf of our excellent sign, and are judged by a panel from staff of freelance writers, staff writ- Here come the University of Missouri School ers, and copy editor Lisa J. Curtis,” of Journalism. Prof. Daryl Moen she said. coordinated the annual contest. A When asked about the nine the holidays! panel of 22 judges reviewed entries awards for this year, Weiss hastened from many publications to choose to add that in addition to Varoscak Shape up now the winners in each category. All and Brown, the magazines contribu- judges drew upon significant profes- tors include a roster of talented sional experience in selecting the writers including Risa Doherty, Al- winners. lison Plitt, Candi Sparks and Mary “The quality of the entries con- Carroll Wininger. tinues to rise,” noted Moen. “Some “Our superb contributors and Find us online at www.NYParenting.com of the design categories, including regular columnists and essayists feature and publication design, are make my work so satisfying,” Weiss magnificent. In writing, there are continued “We are so fortunate as to Our November cover. dozens of writing entries, particu- have partnered with many talented larly in the column categories, that and dedicated parents and profes- are outstanding, and the competi- sionals who have brought their ex- tion is stiff.” pertise and interest in the parenting That said, our gold-award-win- world to us. These magazines are ners deserve special mention and put together with love and devotion congratulations: by everyone on the team. We love s0ERSONAL %SSAY For Laura what we do and we love being par- Varoscak and Wanda Troy-Regier’s (Clockwise from top) Sharon Noble, Parenting Media Association President Joanna ents. It’s what drives us and makes the image for every cover and works array of work and talent presented moving account and memories of Love, and Susan Weiss at the PMA Awards Dinner; Monica Brown; Laura Varoscak. this so very meaningful.” with Mitch to make sure that every at these awards dinners. To have teaching in Downtown Brooklyn In addition to the editorial cover is special. our magazines be included — and and Lower Manhattan “Ten Years felt essays by teachers who experi- rather than being sad testaments, awards, the cover or our November Additionally, the cover for New be winners — is a dream come Later — Teachers Talk 9-11.” ence that dramatic and sad day in they offer hope that any situation 2011 issue, which featured a baby York Special Child Fall-Winter Issue true,” said Weiss. “We work hard 4HE JUDGES COMMENTS “When New York City with their classes. can be overcome.” outfitted in a turkey costume, was was also a finalist-winner. and strive for excellence and it’s you think you’ve read everything The stories are acarefully con- s & A M I L Y &UN For Monica Brown’s singled out for a design award. “Over the years that we have thrilling to know that we have suc- imaginable about 9-11, these New structed around the significant mo- “Around Town” columns in Staten Is- “I was particularly fond of that been a member of Parenting Media ceeded. We will continue to reach York magazines produce two heart- ments and lessons of the day. And land Family. “turkey” ”, said Weiss, who picks out Association, I have seen such a fine high in the years ahead.”

April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 9 HEALTH The importance of disciplining kids s a parent, consider it your not the same thing. and apply the same consequences. duty to teach your child the $ISCIPLINEISAWHOLETEACHINGSYS- $O NOT DISCUSS DISAGREEMENTS IN A difference between accept- tem based in a good relationship, front of your child. This way, you FAMILY HEALTH able and unacceptable behavior. praise, and instruction as to how to are not teaching your child to cre- SAIDI CLEMENTE, MD, That may sound like a lot of work, control behavior. Punishment is only ate confrontations to get her way, or Staten Island University but, surprisingly, getting your child a consequence for undesirable be- from whom she can get what. Hospital to behave the way you want may not havior and a small part of discipline. !LWAYSSTICKTOYOURPROMISES$O be as difficult as you think. Here are Ideally, behavioral modification not promise your child you will do a few tidbits you should remember: should have a good balance between something that you will probably not s " E PATIENT #HANGES COULD TAKE focusing on the unacceptable and actually do. weeks of practice. reinforcing the acceptable. Let the natural and logical con- s$ISCIPLINE AND PUNISHMENT ARE $ISCIPLINE SHOULD START FROM THE sequences take over. If your child time your baby is born. It drops a cookie on the floor, she will starts by making sure that not get to eat the cookie. you are responsive to your ba- Withhold privileges closely re- by’s needs. At the same time, lated to the misbehavior, and try to you’re laying the framework apply this immediately after the fact. for consistency. Here are a few Always follow through. ways to teach discipline: Use time-out as a last resort, and The first step of teach- USE IT WISELY $O NOT GIVE TIME OUTS ing your baby discipline is for everything. When you are giv- teaching her how to sleep on ing a time-out, make sure that you her own. Start with keeping choose the most boring place in the a consistent nap time, meal house and that the child stays there. time, and play time, and don’t If needed, hold the child in your lap waiver. and explain that you are doing this Once your baby becomes because she is not staying quiet. She active and starts exploring will probably learn that it is better the environment, disciplining if she does this herself. Once she is based around safety, but serves time-out, introduce her again also understanding her natu- to a positive activity, but do not ral curiosity. scold or lecture her. Wait until later. When the toddler years Use praise on your child when come, the desire for indepen- SHE DOES SOMETHING RIGHT #HILDREN dence a nd power struggles will won’t know what’s acceptable if you become the biggest problem. don’t point it out to them. Also, set a #HOOSE YOUR BATTLES WISELY good example — don’t expect that and avoid saying “no” all the your child will know how to handle time. Always offer choices. frustration, if you yell and throw a This way, your toddler feels fit when things don’t go the way you that she is exerting indepen- expect. dence while doing what you $O NOT SPANK YOUR CHILD )T DOES want anyway. (For example, not work, it can become a habit, you ASKHER h$OYOUWANTTOWEAR may actually inflict harm, and it will your red pajamas or your blue teach your child that it is OK to hit pajamas?” Either way, she’s to control somebody — even some- still going to put on her PJs.) body she loves. Also, plan ahead and don’t Remember, always consult your overestimate your child. A pediatrician if you have questions or race as to who will brush their concerns. teeth first will, again, get her Dr. Saidi Clemente is board-certified to accomplish the task. in childhood neurodevelopmental dis- Always be consistent, and abilities and is division director of De- make sure that all caregivers velopmental Behavioral Pediatrics at stick to the same set of rules Staten Island University Hospital. 10 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 HEALTH ADELPHI ACADEMY Of Brooklyn

The importance of Effectively preparing young people for college, career and life, one day at a time. disciplining kids ~ Celebrating 150 Years of Educational Excellence ~ s a parent, consider it your not the same thing. and apply the same consequences. duty to teach your child the $ISCIPLINEISAWHOLETEACHINGSYS- $O NOT DISCUSS DISAGREEMENTS IN FAMILY HEALTH A difference between accept- tem based in a good relationship, front of your child. This way, you The Private, Independent, Continuing, Co-Educational, College able and unacceptable behavior. praise, and instruction as to how to are not teaching your child to cre- Preparatory Day School of Choice SAIDI CLEMENTE, MD, That may sound like a lot of work, control behavior. Punishment is only ate confrontations to get her way, or Staten Island University but, surprisingly, getting your child a consequence for undesirable be- from whom she can get what. ~ Pre-Kindergarten through Senior Year ~ Hospital to behave the way you want may not havior and a small part of discipline. !LWAYSSTICKTOYOURPROMISES$O Established 1863 be as difficult as you think. Here are Ideally, behavioral modification not promise your child you will do a few tidbits you should remember: should have a good balance between something that you will probably not he cornerstone of the Adelphi philosophy goes beyond academics. We rear young men and s " E PATIENT #HANGES COULD TAKE focusing on the unacceptable and actually do. T weeks of practice. reinforcing the acceptable. Let the natural and logical con- women to become productive valuable members of society. We take what is especially unique in s$ISCIPLINE AND PUNISHMENT ARE $ISCIPLINE SHOULD START FROM THE sequences take over. If your child each student and nurture their talents with encouragement and devotion. Our curriculum is time your baby is born. It drops a cookie on the floor, she will designed to broaden the scope of each student’s thinking and to instill an appreciation for starts by making sure that not get to eat the cookie. learning. Not just for the sake of learning, but for the purpose of growing both mind and spirit. you are responsive to your ba- Withhold privileges closely re- For 150 years Adelphi has passed the torch of learning that shines on the importance of self by’s needs. At the same time, lated to the misbehavior, and try to expression. Every student is given the confidence to feel that whatever they conceive by mind, you’re laying the framework apply this immediately after the fact. for consistency. Here are a few Always follow through. they can achieve by action. ways to teach discipline: Use time-out as a last resort, and 9 Small Class Sizes with an 8 to 1 Student -- Teacher Ratio The first step of teach- USEITWISELY $O NOT GIVE TIME OUTS 9 ing your baby discipline is for everything. When you are giv- 100% College Placement Rate teaching her how to sleep on ing a time-out, make sure that you 9 New York State Regents Exempt Program her own. Start with keeping choose the most boring place in the 9 Individualized Attention a consistent nap time, meal house and that the child stays there. 9 Intimate, Safe, Caring and Nurturing Environment time, and play time, and don’t If needed, hold the child in your lap 9 Member of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools waiver. and explain that you are doing this 9 Celebrating 150 years of Education Excellence Once your baby becomes because she is not staying quiet. She active and starts exploring will probably learn that it is better Award Winning Programs Include: the environment, disciplining if she does this herself. Once she Special Needs ~ Tutoring and Independent Study ~ SAT Prep ~ College Guidance is based around safety, but serves time-out, introduce her again Before and After School Care ~ Extra Curricular Activities ~ Interscholastic Athletics ~ Fine also understanding her natu- to a positive activity, but do not Arts ~ Community and School Service ~ Drivers Education ~ Online Summer School ral curiosity. scold or lecture her. Wait until later. Summer Day Camp When the toddler years Use praise on your child when come, the desire for indepen- SHE DOES SOMETHING RIGHT #HILDREN dence a nd power struggles will won’t know what’s acceptable if you Open House Dates: th become the biggest problem. don’t point it out to them. Also, set a april 18 , 2012, 6:00pm, #HOOSE YOUR BATTLES WISELY good example — don’t expect that may 16th, 2012, 6:00pm and june 13th, 2012, 6:00pm and avoid saying “no” all the your child will know how to handle Scholarship Exam Dates: time. Always offer choices. frustration, if you yell and throw a th nd This way, your toddler feels fit when things don’t go the way you march 25 , 2012, 12:00pm and april 22 , 2012, 12:00pm that she is exerting indepen- expect. preregistration require for all dates! dence while doing what you $O NOT SPANK YOUR CHILD )T DOES want anyway. (For example, not work, it can become a habit, you PROVIDE YOUR CHILD WITH THE BEST ASKHER h$OYOUWANTTOWEAR may actually inflict harm, and it will your red pajamas or your blue teach your child that it is OK to hit OPPORTUNITY TO SUCCEED IN COLLEGE, CAREER pajamas?” Either way, she’s to control somebody — even some- still going to put on her PJs.) body she loves. AND LIFE….

Also, plan ahead and don’t Remember, always consult your overestimate your child. A pediatrician if you have questions or race as to who will brush their concerns. ....EXPERIENCE ADELPHI! teeth first will, again, get her Dr. Saidi Clemente is board-certified adelphi academy of brooklyn to accomplish the task. in childhood neurodevelopmental dis- 8515 ridge boulevard, bay ridge, brooklyn, new york 11209 Always be consistent, and abilities and is division director of De- for more information please contact the office of academy admissions 718.238.3308 or make sure that all caregivers velopmental Behavioral Pediatrics at visit us on the web at adelphiacademy.org stick to the same set of rules Staten Island University Hospital. April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 11 HEALTSPECIALH NEEDS Make a difference during Autism Awareness Month BY REBECCA MCKEE Random acts of kindness from other teers. Just like typical teenagers, families with children of similar ages teens with autism prefer not to have a pril is Autism Awareness are all it takes. If your child is having “baby sitter.” However, many teenag- Month. What this means is a lemonade sale, take the time to or- ers with autism need to have support A that agencies, governments, ganize this with the parent of an au- from others. Utilizing the assistance schools, families, and others world- tistic child. Teach your child to share of an older teen or college student for wide will shift their focus and take a Matchbox car in the park with the social activities is a great way for a a closer look at this pervasive de- child who makes noises. Two chil- person with autism to experience the velopmental disorder. But what can dren sitting side by side on a swing fun and excitement of the real world we actually do, as individuals, to enjoying a popsicle is priceless, even with a friend. Simple gestures, such increase positive awareness during if one has a 20-word vocabulary and as being a text or e-mail buddy, go a the month of April — and all year the other reads long novels about long, long way toward helping some- long? Harry Potter. one feel included and happy. Young kids Teens Adults Children, from preschool through Preteens and teenagers are tuned We can promote awareness and the intermediate years, can person- in to those in school who need spe- sensitivity this April, next April, and ally touch the lives of their friends cial support. Earning community ser- all year long. It is the little ges- living with autism. Many times, a vice credit by volunteering in special tures that count. For example, when family who has a child with special education classrooms does a world having a BBQ in your backyard, be needs may be hesitant to initiate of good for all students — both those aware of the needs of all of your common neighborhood interactions. with special needs and the volun- guests. People with autism have sun- sensitivity, so having an area set in the shade with some age-appropriate items will be appreciated. If you are venturing out to see a movie with children, ask a parent of a child with special needs if she would like to join in with her child. Most, if not all, people with special needs (especially autism) live for videos. Having a chance to go to the movies with a group of peers is a super social opportunity, without the pressure of conversation! Include other mothers and fathers in your neighborhood of special hap- penings at the local public schools. Some children with autism attend schools outside of their neighborhood. Keeping these families on an e-mail chain provides information on local social events. sss Try to make an effort to enjoy each month with your children, as they are each special to you. April is a month dedicated to those children and adults who live with autism spectrum disorder, and how we can enjoy special moments with them, too. For more information on how you can volunteer, contact your local school’s special education PTA, Autism Speaks, or a local chapter of Special Olympics.

12 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 HEALTSPECIALH NEEDS Therapy Pros OT and ED Services PLLC Angel Skin Make a difference during Providing therapy services Medical Spa for children with special needs /</@=132C@3A s3PEECHAND,ANGUAGE4HERAPY Autism Awareness Month 0]b]f2ga^]`b ;WQ`]Qc``S\b s0HYSICAL4HERAPY !c\Wb aSaaW]\ 2S`[OZ4WZZSà :32BVSÒ^g BY REBECCA MCKEE Random acts of kindness from other teers. Just like typical teenagers, s#OUNSELING0LAY4HERAPY $ag`W\US $ families with children of similar ages teens with autism prefer not to have a s.9#$/%RELATEDSERVICESPROVIDERFOR#03%AND23!CHILDREN 1VS[WQOZ>SSZa AYW\BOU@S[]dOZ pril is Autism Awareness are all it takes. If your child is having “baby sitter.” However, many teenag- s0RIVATE4HERAPYAND%VALUATIONS Ac^S`¿QWOZ(& Month. What this means is a lemonade sale, take the time to or- ers with autism need to have support s!"!4HERAPY 7\bS`[SRWObS(' Ac^S`¿QWOZAQZS`]bVSÒ^g A that agencies, governments, ganize this with the parent of an au- from others. Utilizing the assistance B1/!( #b`SOb[S\b schools, families, and others world- tistic child. Teach your child to share of an older teen or college student for s-ULTIDISCIPLINARY%VALUATIONSFOR.9#$/% #03% B1/#( aSaaW]\ wide will shift their focus and take a Matchbox car in the park with the social activities is a great way for a s(ANDICAPPED!CCESSIBLE 2WO[]\R ;SRWQOZ1]\acZbObW]\ a closer look at this pervasive de- child who makes noises. Two chil- person with autism to experience the therapy ;WQ`]RS`[OPÒaW]\ >`W[O`gDWaWb pros velopmental disorder. But what can dren sitting side by side on a swing fun and excitement of the real world s&ULLY%QUIPPED3ENSORYAND'ROSS-OTOR'YM 'aSaaW]\ EWbV2`4S`ÒUO[] we actually do, as individuals, to enjoying a popsicle is priceless, even with a friend. Simple gestures, such s0RIVATE)NSURANCE!CCEPTED @SdWaWb%# increase positive awareness during if one has a 20-word vocabulary and as being a text or e-mail buddy, go a >/19/53A the month of April — and all year the other reads long novels about long, long way toward helping some- evaluation 2WO[]\R;WQ`]RS`[OPÒaW]\( aSaaW]\a& long? Harry Potter. one feel included and happy. SEIT PROGRAM programs ;OW\bS\O\QS(& ;WQ`]Qc``S\b( aSaaW]\a'& Young kids Teens Adults :32BVSÒ^g(eWbVO\g]bVS`^`]QSRc`S# Children, from preschool through Preteens and teenagers are tuned We can promote awareness and the intermediate years, can person- in to those in school who need spe- sensitivity this April, next April, and ally touch the lives of their friends cial support. Earning community ser- all year long. It is the little ges- -ANOR2OADs #6gZO\0ZdRAcWbS "0 living with autism. Many times, a vice credit by volunteering in special tures that count. For example, when WWWTHERAPY PROSCOM % && #A97<%#"$eeeO\USZaYW\\gQQ][ family who has a child with special education classrooms does a world having a BBQ in your backyard, be needs may be hesitant to initiate of good for all students — both those aware of the needs of all of your common neighborhood interactions. with special needs and the volun- guests. People with autism have sun- sensitivity, so having an area set in the shade with some age-appropri- Have your doctor ate items will be appreciated. If you are venturing out to see a fax or e-scribe movie with children, ask a parent your prescription Child Friendly of a child with special needs if she delcodrugs Environment With A would like to join in with her child. and we will deliver Most, if not all, people with special it to your home. AND SPECIALTY PHARMACY Working Lionel Train! needs (especially autism) live for Come In & See Our videos. Having a chance to go to 6ISITOURWEBSITEATWWWDELCODRUGSCOM New Line of Pediatric the movies with a group of peers is Products! a super social opportunity, without Your Personal Pharmacy and More the pressure of conversation! Include other mothers and fathers in your neighborhood of special hap- 7ENOWCARRY+LAIRE,ABS 4HORNE0EDIATRIC .ORDIC.ATURALS 0UREOTHER3PECIALTY6ITAMINS3UPPLEMENTS penings at the local public schools. s!UTISM !$($ !STHMA!LLERGY s#USTOM0EDIATRIC#OMPOUNDING Compounding for Some children with autism attend schools outside of their neighbor- -EDICATION3PECIALIST sGluten Free Autism Spectrum Disorders hood. Keeping these families on an s3PECIALIZEDBABYFORMULAS%LECARE sCasein Free s%LIMINATIONOFTOXICMETALS e-mail chain provides information ie - DMSA, EDTA, Glutathione on local social events. .EOCATE COVEREDBYINSURANCE sLactose Free s.ON 3TERILE#OMPOUNDING sss DELIVEREDTOYOURHOME sDye Free ie - Antibiotics into suppositories Try to make an effort to enjoy each s"ORN&REE0RODUCTS0"!&2%% s9OURSOURCEFOR.EBULIZERS s3TERILE#OMPOUNDING month with your children, as they ie - Methyl B12 injections are each special to you. April is a Open 7 Days: Monday–Friday 9–8 | Saturday 9–6 | Sunday 9–3 month dedicated to those children 30%#)!,/2$%23 and adults who live with autism spec- 3500/249/52).$%0%.$%.40(!2-!#9!.$'%44(%0%23/.!,):%$3%26)#%9/5$%3%26% 7%,#/-% trum disorder, and how we can enjoy special moments with them, too. )NDEPENDENTLY/WNED!ND/PERATEDs2OBERT!NNICHARICO 2PH For more information on how you can volunteer, contact your local school’s 2ICHMOND!VENUEs3TATEN)SLAND .9.EXTTO%LTINGVILLETRAINSTATION special education PTA, Autism Speaks, 0HONEs&AXsGET IT lLLED DELCODRUGSCOM or a local chapter of Special Olympics.

April 2012 • staten island FaMilY 13 MENTAL HEALTH Stop struggling with the JUGGLING BY SANDRA GORDON structed to strap your mask on first, Your brain needs the down time. A Here are some before your child’s. study in the journal “Sleep” found n an ideal world, you’ve got a That means that if, for example, that people who slept that much tips on how to satisfying career with plenty you have a choice between return- performed the best on tests that as- I of time and energy to play with ing e-mails or strolling with your sessed cognitive function, memory, balance family, your baby, help with homework, baby, take the walk. Block out an reasoning, and vocabulary. Sleep is relax with your husband, get to hour in your datebook each week also the ultimate fatigue fighter. To work, friends, the gym, and catch up with your for yourself and arrange your own log in more zzzz, turn off the TV and friends. The reality? You’re ex- play dates at least once a month, go to bed earlier. hausted from toiling harder and too. and personal longer just to keep your job, and it’s “Parenting can be isolating, but Exercise your taking a toll. You’re time-crunched, other moms can give you help with options time, so you’re short-tempered, and wound so tight issues you’re facing and make you Try to get in at least 30 minutes that even relaxing takes effort. realize you’re not alone. Friends of daily exercise — Mother Nature’s less stressed Sound familiar? You’re not alone. who don’t have kids can help you reset button. To spend more time “In today’s competitive culture, connect with a part of yourself that with your family while you’re at it, be there’s greater stress on an inter- existed before you had a family,” active together by going for walks, nal and external level,” says Ann Chanler says. strolling after dinner, or hiking or Chanler, PhD, a psychoanalyst in biking together on the weekends. New York City. The more that’s ex- Think less is more Family time is so important in and of pected of us, the more we demand For a greater sense of calm, ask itself. If you can incorporate activity from ourselves to be the best wife, yourself: what can I nix from my into it, it’s a double bonus. doting mom, and caring friend, be- to-do list? Then, choose one thing cause we don’t want to let anything to delete from that day’s or week’s Catch your breath slide. agenda. Ah. Also, stop multitask- When you’re feeling overwhelmed, But feeling frazzled and the rip- ing. breathe in through your nose to the ple effects it has on your profes- “Create a schedule when you’ll count of four, exhale through your sional and personal life aren’t fun work, take care of the kids, spend mouth for a count of four, and so on, for anyone — or healthy for you time with your spouse, and then for four sets. over the long run. concentrate only on the task at “Do this simple exercise in the car, Something’s gotta give. hand. Ask yourself: what should I in your office, or in the bathroom But what? We tapped work and be doing now? And then do only stall at work if you have to,” says life experts like Chanler and work- that,” says Leah Aharoni, a manag- Karol Ward, a licensed clinical social ing moms like you for their top san- ing director at a Newark, New Jer- worker in New York City. It helps you ity-saving tips on how to rebalance sey translation agency, and mom think clearly and regain your equi- the balancing act. of six. librium. “I breathe if I’m anxious before Put you at the top of Snooze away stress phone calls or meetings, or before your to-do list “To manage stress, you have to talking to my kids or my husband “If you don’t take care of yourself be well-rested,” says Savitri Dixon- when I’m tired. It changes every- first, you won’t be able to do a good Saxon, PhD, associate dean of the thing,” adds Diana Fletcher, a life job of taking care of everybody,” Walden University School of Coun- coach and author of “Happy on Pur- says Chanler, herself the mother of seling and Social Services, an online pose.” two teenage daughters. She likens university. Lack of shut-eye increases self-care to the oxygen mask dem- your body’s production of cortisol, a Eat well onstration on airplanes. Although stress hormone, so try to catch six A diet that’s rich in fruits, veg- it feels counterintuitive, you’re in- to eight hours of sleep each night. etables, and whole grains, paired

14 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 MENTAL HEALTH

Take notes Use a day planner to write down appointments, reminders, bright Stop struggling with the ideas and your daily to-do list. “It allows your mind to rest, because you know you won’t forget anything important,” says Renee Metzler, a life organizational coach and fellow mom in the trenches. Create a day-is-done ritual A self-imposed boundary between work and home, that’s designed to bring closure to the end of your work JUGGLING day, is very important. One example: “Take a shower at home after work, BY SANDRA GORDON structed to strap your mask on first, Your brain needs the down time. A and imagine your problems of the Here are some before your child’s. study in the journal “Sleep” found day disappearing down the drain,” n an ideal world, you’ve got a That means that if, for example, that people who slept that much says John Brubaker, a work-life bal- tips on how to satisfying career with plenty you have a choice between return- performed the best on tests that as- ance consultant. I of time and energy to play with ing e-mails or strolling with your sessed cognitive function, memory, After that, you’ll feel more ready balance family, your baby, help with homework, baby, take the walk. Block out an reasoning, and vocabulary. Sleep is with healthy sources of lean pro- to give your family your full atten- relax with your husband, get to hour in your datebook each week also the ultimate fatigue fighter. To tein, like chicken and fish, provides tion. work, friends, the gym, and catch up with your for yourself and arrange your own log in more zzzz, turn off the TV and the variety of nutrients you need friends. The reality? You’re ex- play dates at least once a month, go to bed earlier. to cope with stress and the energy Determine your hausted from toiling harder and too. you need to multitask. stress triggers and personal longer just to keep your job, and it’s “Parenting can be isolating, but Exercise your Instead of resorting to take-out Is it having too much to do? Hav- taking a toll. You’re time-crunched, other moms can give you help with options (again), use the weekends to plan ing to work on the weekends? time, so you’re short-tempered, and wound so tight issues you’re facing and make you Try to get in at least 30 minutes menus, shop, batch-cook, and prep “Once you understand the root that even relaxing takes effort. realize you’re not alone. Friends of daily exercise — Mother Nature’s healthy meals and snacks for the cause of your stress, you can take less stressed Sound familiar? You’re not alone. who don’t have kids can help you reset button. To spend more time week. positive steps to cope by avoiding “In today’s competitive culture, connect with a part of yourself that with your family while you’re at it, be “Once a week, make a crock-pot thoughts, behaviors, and activities there’s greater stress on an inter- existed before you had a family,” active together by going for walks, meal,” to create even more time, that increase your anxiety,” says nal and external level,” says Ann Chanler says. strolling after dinner, or hiking or suggests Cristin Frank, a writer Soroya Bacchus, PhD, a board-cer- Chanler, PhD, a psychoanalyst in biking together on the weekends. mom of two in Williamsville, New tified psychiatrist in Los Angeles. New York City. The more that’s ex- Think less is more Family time is so important in and of York. “The night before, portion One temper-taming tactic: “Try pected of us, the more we demand For a greater sense of calm, ask itself. If you can incorporate activity out ingredients so you can toss to stack more labor-intensive as- from ourselves to be the best wife, yourself: what can I nix from my into it, it’s a double bonus. them into the slow-cooker in the signments and those that require doting mom, and caring friend, be- to-do list? Then, choose one thing morning. You’ll only have one pot others’ input early in the week, and cause we don’t want to let anything to delete from that day’s or week’s Catch your breath to clean at the end of the night.” taper down, so that by Friday, you slide. agenda. Ah. Also, stop multitask- When you’re feeling overwhelmed, Bonus! can essentially focus on housekeep- But feeling frazzled and the rip- ing. breathe in through your nose to the ing tasks,” says Ellen Schack, a New ple effects it has on your profes- “Create a schedule when you’ll count of four, exhale through your Don’t be the clean Jersey work and life balance expert sional and personal life aren’t fun work, take care of the kids, spend mouth for a count of four, and so on, queen at www.theceocouple.com. “This for anyone — or healthy for you time with your spouse, and then for four sets. Full-time working women do more strategy can help you avoid over the long run. concentrate only on the task at “Do this simple exercise in the car, than 33 hours of domestic chores weekend workloads and other Something’s gotta give. hand. Ask yourself: what should I in your office, or in the bathroom weekly, while their male counter- infringements on what But what? We tapped work and be doing now? And then do only stall at work if you have to,” says parts do about 16, according a study should be your per- life experts like Chanler and work- that,” says Leah Aharoni, a manag- Karol Ward, a licensed clinical social published in “Women Don’t Ask,” sonal time.” ing moms like you for their top san- ing director at a Newark, New Jer- worker in New York City. It helps you by Linda Babcock, professor of eco- ity-saving tips on how to rebalance sey translation agency, and mom think clearly and regain your equi- nomics at Carnegie Mellon Univer- Savor the the balancing act. of six. librium. sity in Pittsburgh, Pa. good times “I breathe if I’m anxious before To end the dreaded second shift, Irene Krasnian- Put you at the top of Snooze away stress phone calls or meetings, or before let some of the housework slide, or sky, a mom of two your to-do list “To manage stress, you have to talking to my kids or my husband ask your spouse and your kids for and an operations “If you don’t take care of yourself be well-rested,” says Savitri Dixon- when I’m tired. It changes every- help. manager, says, “Something always first, you won’t be able to do a good Saxon, PhD, associate dean of the thing,” adds Diana Fletcher, a life Doing chores actually helps build comes up at work or at home, but job of taking care of everybody,” Walden University School of Coun- coach and author of “Happy on Pur- a child’s sense of competence. If when everything seems to be run- says Chanler, herself the mother of seling and Social Services, an online pose.” your standards are exacting, lower ning smoothly, whether it’s the fact two teenage daughters. She likens university. Lack of shut-eye increases them. So what if the sheets don’t get that my kids aren’t driving me crazy self-care to the oxygen mask dem- your body’s production of cortisol, a Eat well changed as often, or your husband or that everyone is doing their jobs onstration on airplanes. Although stress hormone, so try to catch six A diet that’s rich in fruits, veg- misses a spot when he’s dusting the in my office, I stop for a second and it feels counterintuitive, you’re in- to eight hours of sleep each night. etables, and whole grains, paired furniture? enjoy it.”

April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 15 PARENTING I have a question about Registry madness Trying to be practical when shopping for baby my child’s medicine.

receive a bunch of parenting the things I need, I usually find my- her princess. magazines each month, and in self laughing at all the things that We made some compromises. In I addition to some great articles, are unnecessary. typical New Yorker fashion, I opted there’s always the latest in baby Sure, there are some really great for mostly black big-ticket items: products and products that claim items I have my eyes on; a stroller, car seat, stylish diaper MOMMY 101 to make mom and dad’s lives baby beach tent, some bag, etc. She got to pick out the ANGELICA SERADOVA easier. I like to browse through safety products, and nursery décor, with my approval them while I have a cup of Joe, educational videos, of course. but instead of bookmarking but for the most part, We ended up being happy with and I’m sure veteran our choices. I got to register for parents warned you: some products that I know will get you don’t need all this extra bang for their buck, and she stuff. Besides, I vowed got to “go all out” for her grand- I would not become daughter. the parent whose Deciding which items are worth day trip to the buying, whether big or small, is beach looked overwhelming. There’s a huge like a traveling cir- baby industry pushing great — and cus. not-so-great — products on par- When I was preg- ents, which is why I like talking nant, I argued with to other moms and finding out my mom about reg- what baby products they can’t live istering for my baby without. Recently, a mom friend BABY shower. My ap- of mine came over for a play date proach was to see and brought me one of those mesh what I could get handed snack holders. I had no clue what down — or at a bargain it was until she explained that you — and then plan from place fruit inside so that baby can there. But my mother suck on it without choking. Genius! wanted only the best I went out and bought three more. (read: brand-spanking (My dog liked them too, but that’s new) for her first grand- another story.) baby. I thought I was I also have friends who swear being practical, but by any toy that will keep their chil- SHOP she insisted that it was dren entertained for more than 10 We are here to help. “better” to register for minutes. Every mom has her pref- everything. And so we erences. did. In my short time as a mom, I’ve Having two full days figured out what my go-to items are NEW YORK CITY of baby registering was (besides my coffee maker). Luck- not my favorite part of ily, most of Olivia’s clothes have my pregnancy. (How been (gasp) hand-me-downs, and POISON CONTROL CENTER did my husband man- for that, we have been so grateful, age to get out of that because babies really do grow out BABY one?) of them in a moment’s time. I’ve My mom was eas- been happy to pass on clothes and ily sold into getting products that we no longer need, 1-800-222-1222 every item on the baby and try to think practically when checklist. I wanted to making new purchases. Maybe I or call 311 and ask for the Poison Control Center find gender neutral have to accept the fact that I’ll no products for the more longer be able to get up and go as Free • Conﬁ dential • Interpretation Available expensive things, with I did before, and some baby stuff the idea that if the next is needed here and there. A beach baby is a boy, we can day where I grab a towel and a book save on that expense. is probably a thing of the past, but SHOP Grandma wanted ev- being with Olivia is still a day at erything to be pink for the beach. Lynda D. Curtis Sr. V.P. and Executive Director Bellevue Hospital Center 16 staten island FAMILY • April 2012

Medicine Family Ad-2.indd 1 2/22/12 1:21 PM PARENTING I have a question about Registry madness Trying to be practical when shopping for baby my child’s medicine. receive a bunch of parenting the things I need, I usually find my- her princess. magazines each month, and in self laughing at all the things that We made some compromises. In I addition to some great articles, are unnecessary. typical New Yorker fashion, I opted there’s always the latest in baby Sure, there are some really great for mostly black big-ticket items: products and products that claim items I have my eyes on; a stroller, car seat, stylish diaper MOMMY 101 to make mom and dad’s lives baby beach tent, some bag, etc. She got to pick out the ANGELICA SERADOVA easier. I like to browse through safety products, and nursery décor, with my approval them while I have a cup of Joe, educational videos, of course. but instead of bookmarking but for the most part, We ended up being happy with and I’m sure veteran our choices. I got to register for parents warned you: some products that I know will get you don’t need all this extra bang for their buck, and she stuff. Besides, I vowed got to “go all out” for her grand- I would not become daughter. the parent whose Deciding which items are worth day trip to the buying, whether big or small, is beach looked overwhelming. There’s a huge like a traveling cir- baby industry pushing great — and cus. not-so-great — products on par- When I was preg- ents, which is why I like talking nant, I argued with to other moms and finding out my mom about reg- what baby products they can’t live istering for my baby without. Recently, a mom friend BABY shower. My ap- of mine came over for a play date proach was to see and brought me one of those mesh what I could get handed snack holders. I had no clue what down — or at a bargain it was until she explained that you — and then plan from place fruit inside so that baby can there. But my mother suck on it without choking. Genius! wanted only the best I went out and bought three more. (read: brand-spanking (My dog liked them too, but that’s new) for her first grand- another story.) baby. I thought I was I also have friends who swear being practical, but by any toy that will keep their chil- SHOP she insisted that it was dren entertained for more than 10 We are here to help. “better” to register for minutes. Every mom has her pref- everything. And so we erences. did. In my short time as a mom, I’ve Having two full days figured out what my go-to items are NEW YORK CITY of baby registering was (besides my coffee maker). Luck- not my favorite part of ily, most of Olivia’s clothes have my pregnancy. (How been (gasp) hand-me-downs, and POISON CONTROL CENTER did my husband man- for that, we have been so grateful, age to get out of that because babies really do grow out BABY one?) of them in a moment’s time. I’ve My mom was eas- been happy to pass on clothes and ily sold into getting products that we no longer need, 1-800-222-1222 every item on the baby and try to think practically when checklist. I wanted to making new purchases. Maybe I or call 311 and ask for the Poison Control Center find gender neutral have to accept the fact that I’ll no products for the more longer be able to get up and go as Free • Conﬁ dential • Interpretation Available expensive things, with I did before, and some baby stuff the idea that if the next is needed here and there. A beach baby is a boy, we can day where I grab a towel and a book save on that expense. is probably a thing of the past, but SHOP Grandma wanted ev- being with Olivia is still a day at erything to be pink for the beach. Lynda D. Curtis Sr. V.P. and Executive Director Bellevue Hospital Center April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 17

Medicine Family Ad-2.indd 1 2/22/12 1:21 PM CAMPS Homesick blues his summer, thou- 10 ways for sands of New T York children will parents to head to summer camp — eager, excited, and… homesick? help their Yep. Research indicates that homesickness is the little campers norm, and not the excep- tion. adjust It is common for campers to feel a tinge of homesickness at some point during the camp session. So, how can parents help? By exercising a little preparation and patience, you can help ease any homesickness in your otherwise happy camper. s%NCOURAGE YOUR CHILDS INDEPENDENCE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR Have your child slee- pover at friends’ and relatives’ houses. Being away from home can help simulate the camp experience. s ) N V O L V E YOUR CHILD INTHEPROCESSOFCHOOS- ING A CAMP The more that the child owns the decision, the more com- fortable she will feel being at camp. s $ I S C U S S WHAT CAMP WILLBELIKEBEFOREYOUR CHILD LEAVES Honest discussions about what at camp.” ON YOUR CHILDS ADJUSTMENT Re- camp will be like before your child s $ O N T BRIBE Linking a suc- member, camp staff are trained to leaves will help prepare her for the cessful stay at camp to a material ease homesickness and have dealt camp experience. object sends the wrong message. with homesick children before. s 2 E A C H ANAGREEMENTAHEADOF The reward should be your child’s s $ O N T FEELGUILTYABOUTENCOUR- TIMEONCALLINGEACHOTHER If your new-found confidence and inde- AGINGYOURCHILDTOSTAYATCAMP child’s camp has a no-phone-calls pendence. If your child wants to come home, policy, honor it. s 0 A C K A PERSONAL ITEM FROM don’t feel bad about encouraging s 3 E N D A NOTE OR CARE PACKAGE HOME SUCHASASTUFFEDANIMAL her to stay. For many children, TOARRIVEWITHINTHEFIRSTFEWDAYS s !V O I D THE TEMPTATION TO TAKE camp is the first experience to- OF CAMP Send a letter from home THECHILDHOMEEARLY If your child ward independence, and it plays or a care package, acknowledging makes a “rescue call,” offer calm an important part in their growth you will miss your child in a posi- reassurance, and put the time and development. tive way. For example, the note can frame into perspective. For more, visit the American Camp say, “I will miss you, but I know you s 4A L K CANDIDLY WITH THE CAMP Association at www.searchforacamp. are going to have a wonderful time DIRECTORTOOBTAINHERPERSPECTIVE org, or call (212) 391-5208. 18 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 CAMPS Homesick blues STATEN ISLAND his summer, thou- DAY CAMP 10 ways for sands of New T York children will parents to head to summer camp 1.800.301.2267 — eager, excited, and… homesick? help their Yep. OUR AMAZING CAMPUS: THE COLLEGE OF STATEN ISLAND Research indicates that homesickness is the “Staten Island Day Camp Campers can either little campers norm, and not the excep- tion. in our 51,000 square adjust It is common for foot NCAA indoor recreational facility or enjoy campers to feel a tinge our expansive outdoor NCAA Recreational setting. of homesickness at some point during the camp Our program allows campers to explore physical session. So, how can par- activity, acquire new skills, feel valued for who they ents help? By exercising a little preparation and are, and develop a sense of belonging for a true patience, you can help “ULTIMATE DAY CAMP EXPERIENCE” not offered ease any homesickness in your otherwise happy anywhere else in the Staten Island Community!” camper. s%NCOURAGE YOUR CHILDS INDEPENDENCE SERVING STATEN ISLAND FOR 33 YEARS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR Have your child slee- pover at friends’ and VISIT OUR OPEN HOUSE relatives’ houses. Being away from home can MICHAEL HALPERN help simulate the camp ‘Friends and Family Day’ experience. OWNER & DIRECTOR FOR 33 YEARS s ) N V O L V E YOUR CHILD Licensed in Supervision & Administration INTHEPROCESSOFCHOOS- ST ING A CAMP The more APRIL 21 that the child owns the NYC LICENSED THANK YOU COUPON decision, the more com- 10:00 AM TO 2 PM fortable she will feel OFF being at camp. COLLEGE OF STATEN ISLAND BUILDING 1R s $ I S C U S S WHAT CAMP Come one and all to our special day with $25 WILLBELIKEBEFOREYOUR *Coupon to be used by mail if you cannot CHILD LEAVES Honest entertainment, prizes and a chance to visit us at our OPEN HOUSE discussions about what at camp.” ON YOUR CHILDS ADJUSTMENT Re- WIN UP TO $100 OFF your families camp stay camp will be like before your child s $ O N T BRIBE Linking a suc- member, camp staff are trained to leaves will help prepare her for the cessful stay at camp to a material ease homesickness and have dealt camp experience. object sends the wrong message. with homesick children before. sCamp Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm sAll Counselors are Adults sMedical Certiﬁ ed Staff/CPR & RTE Trained s 2 E A C H ANAGREEMENTAHEADOF The reward should be your child’s s $ O N T FEELGUILTYABOUTENCOUR- sBoys and Girls Ages 5-13 sComprehensive Day Camp Program sFree Door-to-Door Transportation TIMEONCALLINGEACHOTHER If your new-found confidence and inde- AGINGYOURCHILDTOSTAYATCAMP child’s camp has a no-phone-calls pendence. If your child wants to come home, sOptional Extended Day sDirectors are State Licensed s4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 week Sessions Available policy, honor it. s 0 A C K A PERSONAL ITEM FROM don’t feel bad about encouraging sThree and Five day programs sPayment Plan Available s 3 E N D A NOTE OR CARE PACKAGE HOME SUCHASASTUFFEDANIMAL her to stay. For many children, TOARRIVEWITHINTHEFIRSTFEWDAYS s !V O I D THE TEMPTATION TO TAKE camp is the first experience to- OF CAMP Send a letter from home THECHILDHOMEEARLY If your child ward independence, and it plays Visit Us Online at www.statenislanddaycamp.com and Take a Virtual Tour or a care package, acknowledging makes a “rescue call,” offer calm an important part in their growth you will miss your child in a posi- reassurance, and put the time and development. CALL TODAY FOR OUR CAMP LITERATURE 1.800.301.2267 tive way. For example, the note can frame into perspective. For more, visit the American Camp say, “I will miss you, but I know you s 4A L K CANDIDLY WITH THE CAMP Association at www.searchforacamp. are going to have a wonderful time DIRECTORTOOBTAINHERPERSPECTIVE org, or call (212) 391-5208. April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 19 Camp/Programs 2012 Directory

AmeriKick Martial dreams. Arts Study and Learn with Professional Teachers with Advanced degrees in 341A Sand Lane music or art and years of experience. 718-524-0244 or AmeriKickSI@ aol.com or www.AmeriKickSI. com FasTracKids Summer Don’t let electronic games and 1461 Hylan Blvd gadgets occupy your child this 718-351-7333 or www. summer when they could be build- fastrackids.com ing their minds and bodies at FasTracKids Summer is designed AmeriKick Karate Skills Summer for children ages 3-7. Sessions last Camp. AmeriKick Summer Camps for one week at a time. A full day are a great way to have fun while program is offered that includes improving your martial arts skills. enrichment classes, math, reading, Students will have an opportunity to and writing classes, exercise, local train in Kata, Sparring, Self-Defense, field trips, arts and crafts, karaoke, Weapons, Strength & Conditioning, computers, special projects, science Acrobatics and Sport Karate experiments and much more. Hours Techniques. Call to register your are from 9am-4pm with extended child and receive 20% off weekly hours available. summer camp. Offer ends April 30. The camp offers a fast-paced, fun and fully interactive setting; learning “Dea” Music & Art adventures captivate and entertain School as they deliver truly meaningful lessons. Conservatory Tradition with a Community School Feeling. Each day FasTracKids will enjoy learning as they explore, discover, imag- 19 St. Mary’s Avenue ine and create. This is the summer 718-876-5223 or www. adventure children will use for life. deamusicandart.com One or 2 times per week Enopi Math Richmond Choral Society (RCS) We bring music and art into your & English Classes are also offered all Richmond Choral Society (RCS) children’s life and try to make summer and throughout the year. the arts an alive and vital part of Come join RCS Youth Chorus your youngster’s future. It is our philosophy to bridge the gap that JCC of Staten Island Summer Workshop exists in the public educational Lillian Schwartz Day system regarding music and art. It is because we know the differ- Camp Ages 9 through 17 ence creativity and art can bring to 1131 Manor Road or www. people’s lives that we emphasize the camp.sijcc.org Have fun learning, singing and performing importance of these music and art Camp Directors – Glenn choral music programs. Wechsler: gwechsler@sijcc. Creativity brings fulfillment in life, com 718-475.5231, with experienced music teachers improves learning abilities and Stephanie Feldman: July 9 - 13 from 10am to 1pm focuses, brings happiness and [email protected] 718-475- explores inner talents you never 5232 at Christ Church thought you had. Learning a musical For more than 80 years the JCC 76 Franklin Ave., Staten Island, NY 10301 instrument or singing in Glee brings of Staten Island’s Lillian Schwartz out the artist in all of us. Day Camp has provided children on Auditions for RCS Youth Chorus Our highly skilled staff has created Staten Island with a safe, quality programs that explore and develop day camp experience with a focus 2012-2013 Season all the artistic aspects in your child’s on fun, spirit, friendship, and community. The camp is situated at the WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5TH AND 12TH, life, from singing, learning about music and famous composers to lush Henry Kaufmann campgrounds 4 - 6 PM learning a musical instrument and in Staten Island’s Greenbelt and fea- creating works of art. tures 100 country like wooded acres, at New Dorp Moravian Parish Hall 2 lakes, boating ponds, ball fields, What can be more entertaining than 2205 Richmond Rd, SI, NY 10306 hiking trails, an outdoor amphithe- singing together with your mates ater and 3 Olympic sized swimming Call 718-448-3656 in the Broadway Theatre class and pools. At the camp, children par- tackling that stage fright and nerves ticipate in a full array of activities for more information and fees in the most rewarding way? No previous experience necessary. including swimming, sports, music, Here at Dea Music and Art we give arts and crafts, animal encounter, www.richmondchoral.com wings to your child’s creativity and Continued on page 22 20 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 ALL SPORTS, PRIVATE SWIMMING POOL & TRIPS Amusement Parks, Movies, Skating, Bowling, Medieval Times & More! For campers 45' &&# ' 4-15 FREE TWO Transportation & Larry Marantz, OPEN HOUSES Extended Hours Director th Saturday, April 7 st Adult supervision, full time medical staff, CIT programs. EÊ->ÌÕÀ`>Þ]Ê«ÀÊÓ£ ££>ÊÊ{« Flexible payment plans. Sibling discounts. Meet Directors & Staff Enroll at Special LESS Discounts THAN $300 A WEEK* w/ FREE LUNCH *Based on an 8 Week Enrollment ÓÇÊÜiiÃÊ>ÃÊ available)

Private, Air- 1075 Woodrow Road Conditioned Facility ÜÜÜ°ÀV`>ÞV>«°VÊUÊÇ£nÇÈ££{Ó

Special Advertising Section April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 21 Camp/Programs 2012 Directory

Continued from page 20 and special events, including: mov- archery, and nature. ies & bowling, Medieval Times, The program also includes spec- Statue of Liberty, baseball games, an tacular shows, special events and amusement park and many more. Summer Camp at SIA... weekly trips to place like Sesame Tuition, which includes FREE Place, Fun Time America, Keansburg TRANSPORTATION & EXTENDED Amusement park, and a New York HOURS, is less than $300 per week We specialize in SMILES! Mets game. The Camp employs for an 8 week enrollment, (2-7 weeks are also available). A flex- child-friendly, energetic and dedi- OPEN HOUSE DATES cated staff. They receive extensive ible payment plan, optional lunch DON’T FORGET! pre-camp and on-going training & sibling discount is available. Call Early Bird Sunday, April 22 in the areas of child development, for more info & the date of our next Deadline is supervision, child safety, and camper open house. Sunday, May 20 Monday, April 11 AM — 2 PM sensitivity. The camp, which is 23rd! American Camp Association accredited, is open to children ages 2-15 staten island Two Swimming Pools ● Basketball Camp ● Soccer Camp and runs from July 2 – August 24. academy summer Summer Institute for the Gifted ● Tennis Academy ● Dance Bussing and extended hours is avail- day Camp Arts & Crafts ● Computer Lab ● Discovery Science able. The camp day is from 9:00 715 Todt Hill Road Weekly Trips, Events & Theme Days ● Cool Cafeteria w/ Hot Lunch a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Additionally, there 718-303-7846 or www. are camp divisions for children with Bus transportation, extended day and private swim lessons are available. statenislandacademy.org/ diabetes and children with special 715 Todt Hill Road, Staten Island, NY 10304 ● 718-303-7845 camp needs. Staten Island Academy Summer Day Camp offers safe, fun-filled, activity- Richmond Choral packed programs for children ages society Youth Chorus 3-14 and we specialize in making memories that last a lifetime! In 2205 Richmond Road addition to weekly events and activi- 718-448-3656 or www. ties, our campers run, jump and play richmondchoral.com on our 12-acre campus, three tennis Richmond Choral Society Youth courts and two swimming pools. Chorus was created in 2003 as the Included in our day camp program junior division of the Richmond are dance and the Camp Show, arts Choral Society. Young singers and crafts, Discovery Science, com- encounter a variety of fun and chal- puter lab, game room and hot lunch lenging musical experiences and in our cool cafeteria! We also offer receive instruction in vocal produc- NYC’s only Summer Institute for Specialty Programs/Camps ACT Theatre Programs tion, music literacy, and concert per- the Gifted program and specialized formance. Richmond Choral Society sports camps for basketball, soccer, Art Dramatic Scene Study Youth Chorus recruits students tennis and rugby/lacrosse. We have Filmmaking Musical Theatre entering fourth to twelfth grades: something for everyone – from the Lego Robotics Littlest Actors choral singing is fun and challeng- most active to the most creative Mad Science ing. Summer workshop is July 9th camper! – 13th from 10a.m. – 1p.m. at Christ Music & Songwriting Now Playing Learn more at an Open House Actor Children’s Theatre Church at 76 Franklin Avenue. Sunday April 22, or Sunday May Photography presents 20th 11-2 pm For more information Teen Career Exploration please call or visit our website. in Medicine & Health and Richmond County day Wedding & Event Planning Camp staten island day Video Game Design 718-761-1492 or www. rcdaycamp.com Camp Register by April 12 for our June 8 and 9 at 7pm and June 10 at 2pm Richmond County Day Camp has 2800 Victory Blvd., SI, NY Camp Early Bird Discount been Staten Island’s most excit- 800-301-2267 www. Petrides School Call about our convenient Payment Plans ing & affordable private day camp statenislanddaycamp.com 715 Ocean Terrace, S.I., NY since 1995. Located in Fun Station, Staten Island Day Camp is proud to For show tickets, info, and registration, Pre Sale Admission: $15 a 40,000 sq. foot, air-conditioned offer a true day camp experience visit www.wagner.edu/external At Door Admission: $20 indoor amusement park, RCDC is held on the beautiful grounds of the or call 718-390-3221 supervised by licensed teachers, College of Staten Island. This site Programs are for ages 6–17 adult counselors and a full time allows us to conduct all our activities medical staff. Campers enjoy a train one safe location, and our camp- Facebook: Wagner College ditional program of activities like ers avoid continuous travel on hot External Programs swimming (in our private outdoor buses in the heat of the summer. Twitter: WagnerExternal One Campus Road, Staten Island, NY 10301 pool), sports, karate, arts & crafts, Our program is never disrupted by games & laser tag with daily trips Continued on page 24 22 staten island FaMilY • April 2012 -USICLESSONSIN0IANO 6IOLIN 6OICEAND'UITAR !RT#LASSESAND"ROADWAY4HEATER3INGINGW-OVEMENT 3UMMER#AMP Free th th Trial July 9 - August 24 Class Monday - Friday - Flexible Schedules s-USIC)NSTRUMENT s-USICAL4HEATER s'LEE3INGING Prepare Schedule customized to ﬁ t for ABRSM Graded Exam the needs of your children s)NDIVIDUALCLASSESWITHINSTRUMENTOFYOURCHOICE -USIC4HEORY 4HEATER 0ROFESSIONAL!RT#LASSES s(ALFDAYOR&ULLDAYPROGRAM s4HEMOSTPROFESSIONALMUSICSCHOOLIN3TATEN)SLAND Students have been admitted to LaGuardia HS for Music & Art Student recitals held in Manhattan/Masterclasses

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Special Advertising Section April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 23 Camp/Programs 2012 Directory

Continued from page 22 Planning will want to join us as we excessively hot days as our indoor experience real life, real time careers. facilities are air-conditioned, which We invite your child to join us this allow our campers to move inside summer for an unparalleled camp and still have a true day camp expe- experience. rience. Our Olympic sized pool is also inside. YMCA Summer Our outdoor facilities include: three ball fields; four basketball courts; Camps a modern track; soccer field and 651 Broadway 718-981-4933 an all-purpose field for our Early or www.ymcanyc.org Childhood campers. Two former 3939 Richmond Avenue 718- school administrators; a child psy- 227-3200 or www.ymanyc.org chologist and four licensed teach- Staten Island YMCA @ pouch ers supervise our campers and our college counselors - a professional Camp 718-227-3200 administrative team not to be Provides youth with supervised activ- matched anywhere. ities that teach core values, conflict resolution and leadership skills. Kids Please visit our website at www. have fun while making new friends, statenislanddaycamp.com for more building self-confidence, appreciat- information. ing teamwork and growing in self- reliance. Wagner College Their program includes playing Summer Programs for games, arts & crafts, exploring sci- Kids & Teens ence and technology, swimming, field trips, appreciating nature and One Campus Road values of many cultures. All camps Days Filled with FUN, FUN, FUN! 718-390-3221 or www. are accredited by the American wagner.edu/external/ Camping Association. Registration &ŽƌŽǇƐΘ'ŝƌůƐ͕ϰͲϭϰ WĂǇŵĞŶƚWůĂŶǀĂŝůĂďůĞ summercamps2012 for Summer 2012 is now open. ϮͲϴtĞĞŬWƌŽŐƌĂŵƐǀĂŝůĂďůĞ tĞĞŬůǇ&ŝĞůĚdƌŝƉƐ Wagner College is not your typi- Please contact your nearest YMCA KƉƟŽŶĂůǆƚĞŶĚĞĚĂǇ ^ƉŽƌƚƐtŝƚŚ/ŶƐƚƌƵĐƟŽŶ cal day camp. We offer specialized Day Camp or visit www.ymcanyc. summer camp experiences for chil- org/camp for more information. DĞĚŝĐĂůĞƌƟĮĞĚ^ƚĂī͕ ƌƚƐΘƌĂŌƐ WZͬZddƌĂŝŶĞĚ dren and teens ages 6 to 17. Our mission is simple. We are committed KǁŶĞƌͬŝƌĞĐƚŽƌ<ĞŝƚŚ'ůĂƵďĞƌ͕ to providing an enriching, diverse Young People’s Day ĨŽƌŵĞƌDĂũŽƌ>ĞĂŐƵĞĂƐĞďĂůů AND MORE! ƉůĂǇĞƌΘĐƵƌƌĞŶƚƐƚĂƚĞůŝĐĞŶƐĞĚ and nurturing camp environment Camp of Staten Island ƚĞĂĐŚĞƌ that promotes personal, academic 718-701-3600, 1-800-DAY- tĞĐĐĞƉƚůůhŶŝŽŶZĂƚĞƐ and social growth while having fun. CAMP or www.ypdc.com Our camps are held on the beautiful Nansen Park, 3465 Victory and safe Wagner campus conve- Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10314 niently located atop Grymes Hill. A Unforgettable summers begin at typical full day camp includes camp- Young People’s Day Camp, now ers’ all-time favorite lunch in the celebrating our 40th Anniversary as College Cafeteria. Program favorites Staten Island’s #1 Private Day Camp! include Lego Robotics and our A.C.T. Founded and operated by school Theatre programs. Young actors are ĂůůEŽǁ&ŽƌWƌĞͲ^ĞĂƐŽŶŝƐĐŽƵŶƚ͊ teachers, the camp’s philosophy is invited to join us as we act, sing, based on the desire to “grow” chil- and dance our way through an dren intellectually, physically & spiri- SPRING OPEN HOUSE exciting musical theatre review cul- tually in a fun environment. ^d͕͘WZ/>Ϯϭ͕ϮϬϭϮͻϭϬĂŵͲϭϮƉŵ minating with a performance on the EE^EWZ< last day. The more serious actor will Programs are packed with activities: ϯϰϲϱsŝĐƚŽƌǇůǀĚ͘ͻ^ƚĂƚĞŶ/ƐůĂŶĚ͕EzϭϬϯϭϰ want to join our Comedic/Dramatic swimming, sports, arts and crafts, Scene Study program which features karate, weekly trips to baseball CALL 1-718-701-3600 or a showcase presentation in the games, amusement parks, aquari- Wagner Stage One Theatre. ums & more! Camp Director Keith 1-800-DAYCAMP New this summer is our Music and Glauber is a former Major League ŽƌĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ<ĞŝƚŚ'ůĂƵďĞƌĂƚ͗ŬĞŝƚŚΛǇƉĚĐ͘ĐŽŵ Songwriting program along with Baseball Player with the Cincinnati Photography, Art, and Filmmaking. Reds. Old-time favorites include Mad Children ages 4-14. 2, 4, 6, & 8 Science and Video Game Design. week programs are available. Free, Teens interested in learning about air-conditioned transportation. We career options in the fields of accept all union rates. Payment plans Medicine or Wedding & Event available. 24 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 Be Conﬁ dent, Strong and Empowered CALLA KARATE & JUJUTSU Self-Protection Classes for Women FIRST 20 ENROLLEES RECEIVE A FREE UNIFORM

As a mother, As a Martial I am aware Artist, I of the am prepared challenges to help women and you defeat children face those daily. challenges. #ASTLETON!VEs3TATEN)SLAND .9sWWWCALLAKARATECOMs

Special Advertising Section April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 25 HEALTH

Playing it safe BY TONY WANICH, MD where stretches are held for 30 sec- s#OMMUNICATION BETWEEN PLAY- Tips on onds. ers, parents, and coaches is an easy s youth baseball season ap- s2UNNING IS A KEY COMPONENT IN way to identify problems before they preventing proaches, so, too, does the pre-activity warm-up and preseason become a more significant injury. A risk of injuries — some of conditioning, and it’s an important Persistent pain, which does not im- which could require surgery for your way for pitchers to develop endur- prove with rest, should be evaluated Little League little ball player later in life. Inju- ance and stamina, and for position by a sports medicine specialist. ries sustained in Little League most players to develop speed and agil- Little League baseball has estab- commonly involve the shoulder and ity. lished a set of age-appropriate, pitch injuries elbow, and are typically due to over- s3TRENGTHTRAININGISESSENTIALFOR count guidelines that both coaches use. The best approach is preven- baseball players, and special atten- and parents should follow to avoid tion through appropriate preseason tion needs to be paid to the rotator overuse injuries. It has also estab- conditioning and training, as well cuff, biceps, triceps, and forearm lished a set of guidelines regarding as following safe guidelines for play. muscles. the amount of rest needed between With proper precautions, the vast s 4 H E ADAGE THAT PRACTICE MAKES games depending on the number of majority of baseball injuries, which perfect is not always the case in pitches thrown. It is important that are increasingly common among baseball — it is important to avoid parents take these guidelines into young athletes due to high demands pitching on consecutive days. consideration, because most inju- and expectations, can be prevented. s9OUTHPITCHERSSHOULDFOCUSON ries can be treated non-operatively Here are some tips that can help pre- developing accuracy and control if addressed early enough. vent injuries. through good pitching mechanics, Tony Wanich, MD, is the attending s%STABLISH A CONSISTENT WARM UP and should focus on mastering the surgeon for the Department of Ortho- routine prior to any athletic activity, fast ball before moving on to other paedic Surgery at Montefiore Medical and include a stretching program types of pitches. Center.

26 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 HEALTH coming in our may issue arts for kids

Find the right program & focus for your child music / drama / art / ﬁ lm dance / photography

early exposure to the arts has been proven to enhance development Playing it safe in every way. BY TONY WANICH, MD where stretches are held for 30 sec- s#OMMUNICATION BETWEEN PLAY- Tips on onds. ers, parents, and coaches is an easy s youth baseball season ap- s2UNNING IS A KEY COMPONENT IN way to identify problems before they To advertise call 718.260.4554 preventing proaches, so, too, does the pre-activity warm-up and preseason become a more significant injury. A risk of injuries — some of conditioning, and it’s an important Persistent pain, which does not im- which could require surgery for your way for pitchers to develop endur- prove with rest, should be evaluated Little League little ball player later in life. Inju- ance and stamina, and for position by a sports medicine specialist. ries sustained in Little League most players to develop speed and agil- Little League baseball has estab- commonly involve the shoulder and ity. lished a set of age-appropriate, pitch injuries elbow, and are typically due to over- s3TRENGTHTRAININGISESSENTIALFOR count guidelines that both coaches use. The best approach is preven- baseball players, and special atten- and parents should follow to avoid tion through appropriate preseason tion needs to be paid to the rotator overuse injuries. It has also estab- conditioning and training, as well cuff, biceps, triceps, and forearm lished a set of guidelines regarding as following safe guidelines for play. muscles. the amount of rest needed between With proper precautions, the vast s 4 H E ADAGE THAT PRACTICE MAKES games depending on the number of majority of baseball injuries, which perfect is not always the case in pitches thrown. It is important that are increasingly common among baseball — it is important to avoid parents take these guidelines into young athletes due to high demands pitching on consecutive days. consideration, because most inju- and expectations, can be prevented. s9OUTHPITCHERSSHOULDFOCUSON ries can be treated non-operatively Here are some tips that can help pre- developing accuracy and control if addressed early enough. vent injuries. through good pitching mechanics, Tony Wanich, MD, is the attending s%STABLISH A CONSISTENT WARM UP and should focus on mastering the surgeon for the Department of Ortho- routine prior to any athletic activity, fast ball before moving on to other paedic Surgery at Montefiore Medical and include a stretching program types of pitches. Center.

April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 27 PARTIES

equipment for these games and that there are enough adult coaches or referee-type personalities to put the Determining where friendly competition into play and the budget can be keep it safe. trimmed depends on Crafty celebrations Younger kids usually the age of the child, his enjoy getting messy expectations, and who — without getting in trouble — at a you know that can “get BIG FUN party. If your child likes making spe- it for your wholesale.” cial projects, consider having an art- themed birthday Decorating pre-baked ginger- party. Typically, a bread cookies or making a ginger- on a small budget two-hour pottery-mak- bread house will be warm and cozy ing party is around $34 in December. If your home kitchen is BY CANDI SPARKS can spend a year of college tuition is about $24 per person, without per person with pizza, which too small or your guest list is too big, Birthday on a child’s party. How can you com- food and beverage add-ons. Fortu- can wind up in the $1,000- there are alternatives that will give hildren love birthday cele- memorate the date without breaking nately, karaoke equipment is avail- plus range quickly. A scaled- you a culinary thrill. Commercial brations. To them, getting the bank? able for rent from local companies, down option is a home-craft kitchens, restaurants, and perhaps parties that C older is cool, and birthdays It is essential to have a budget and as well as those found online, for as project, just try to keep it fun even the local pizzeria can put on are a special day to get and give a game plan. Party planning involves little as $50 (add-ons are available and simple. Consider baking a show with your guests participat- love, attention, and gifts — simply more than money. It is up to the host to for song collections, lights, etc.). The pinch pots or making soap or ing in meal preparation, viewing the won’t break because it’s a birthday! But for par- determine how guests will spend their rental space, versus the equipment candles. If the entire process would chopping and dicing from a front row ents doing the birthday-party circuit time during the party. Will the bulk of rental, gives some leeway and pric- take too much time, some of the seat, or rolling the dough for the pie. the bank (whether as a guest or a host), things the party consist of good conversa- ing options to the party planner that work can be done in advance, so the Check with the manager or owner of can get expensive, fast. Consider- tion, doing an art project together, are worth checking out. A further op- guests can add color and decora- your favorite venue. More and more ing that the number of kids on the sports competitions, singing, dancing, tion is to find a local DJ to play music tions or the final steps to the project, places are welcoming the chance to guest list could be between 15 and and eating? Determining where the for the entire party and have the and then take the project home as a add to your fun. 25 youngsters, birthday parties can budget can be trimmed depends on highlight of the party be a few kara- souvenir. also be exhausting. the age of the child, her expectations, oke tunes from the birthday child. Creating sock puppets together Goody bags Children’s parties have become and who you know that can “get it for For the athletically inclined, an and putting on a favorite story is an- Hosts will also consider what they a lot more elaborate than they were your wholesale.” But even a limited indoor sports party is fun. Gymnas- other possibility. Some of the char- will give to guests in return for the in the good-old days. Cake and ice budget can go further with a little tics, bowling, rock climbing, basket- acters can also be made by gluing presents their children receive. The cream is for babies. For older kids, imagination and footwork. ball, and paint ball (for children of a faces on paper plates or paper bags, goody bag doesn’t have to include options include popcorn machines, certain age) are a few of the options. using felt, yarn, and glitter. As long personalized T-shirts or video games bouncy houses, face painting, DJs, Scale down parties These parties are typically around as the project is hands-on and does if that is out of your price range. It magicians, clowns, celebrity appear- If your budding star wants a ka- $30 per child, without all the bells not have to been done perfectly, the can include a lottery ticket with your ances, and video arcade rentals. In raoke-themed party, a bare-bones and whistles. More kids and add- kids will have a great time, and won’t best wishes for a win. A charitable some communities, these extras are rental space in New York (that comes ons (like food, beverages, and cake) know or care how much money you contribution is also a thoughtful gift, not negotiable. But not all parents with lights, couches, and equipment) are extra. Parents usually spend be- spent. or a homemade, decorated photo of tween $600 to $1,000 on this type of In warmer weather, an art party the guest and birthday child makes party when everything is tallied. can also be done outdoors or in a a nice keepsake. Candy, bubbles, a sweet 16 to mark the occasion. If the sports center is not an option, rented space like a local commu- pinwheels, balloons, coloring books Ideas for older children These parties can become big think of a work-around where the kids nity center. Regardless of the venue, or other simple toys, lip gloss, nail Unfortunately (or not), as kids religious or cultural rites of pas- ticket items, depending on the par- can run and play and conclude the there will need to be enough supervi- polish, and hair bands and clips, can get older, they want a more sophis- sage that merit a heftier bottom ent’s resources. Friends and family party with cake. Would a backyard, sion for safety — and to contain the be purchased in bulk at the discount ticated celebration, which usually line. For Jewish children turning may contribute months in advance basement, park, or beach work as a mess (at least a little without spoil- store. After a certain age, children equates to one that costs 13 years old, signifying the to ensure the success of the event, party space? By moving the party to a ing the fun). Another option for an are just happy that they had another you more money. Some- arrival of adulthood, the but the key is to have a game plan “free” venue, the party can go on a lot art party (or any other party theme) chance to be together. times they want a cele- bar mitzvah (for young and shop around. Negotiate every- longer and the budget can go further. is to check out free events for kids at sss bration without paren- men) and bat mitzvah thing — the invitations, the venue, But, this choice involves preparing museums, for example, and meet up Showing the children how to ap- tal supervision. A trip Top (at 12 or 13 years of the fare, the entertainment, the the environment in advance for safety, there. Afterwards, treat guests to a preciate life is one of the best gifts to the movies or shop- age for young ladies), photographer, the videographer, as well as the fun and games. The ac- bite to eat to celebrate the birthday that you can give them. Don’t forget ping with friends makes Tips is a more significant the goodie bags — everything! tivities and equipment will have to be before everyone heads home. the thank you cards! a birthday fun (with your event. In Latino culture, When finances are tight, more peo- organized in advance. If a paint ball In the fall, an apple-themed party Candi Sparks is a Brooklyn mother money and without you some celebrate with a ple are searching for affordable party is not an option, would a water can be organized by apple picking of two and a children‘s book author. there). Independence is the quinceañera, as a rite of pas- quality because, in the long run, balloon fight work? Decide on the ac- together, then making apple pies or Her titles include “Max Gets It!,” “Nacho key to this birthday feeling like “a sage for a young lady into young quality is usually more of a consid- tivities — relay races, volleyball, soc- apple crisps at the party. A pump- Money,” and other books on finance for good one.” womanhood at the age of 15. In eration than the cost of this once- cer, or whatever works for the guest kin painting party, or making jack- kids. Follow her on Facebook and Twit- However, some birthdays are American culture, some celebrate in-a-lifetime event. of honor and guests. Hosts will need o-lantern designs, will also work in ter (Candi Sparks, author) and on You- to make sure that they have enough the fall. Tube (Canihavesomemoney).

28 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 PARTIES

AmeriKick Martial Arts mentary Guest Passes to use during the 341A Sand Lane party in the JCC’s well equipped beautiful 718-524-0244 or www.AmeriKickSI. Fitness Center. So, let us do the work while com or email: [email protected] you and your child enjoy the celebration! For further information, please email Amerikick Karate Party is a great way for Melissa Kraker at [email protected] or call your child to celebrate his or hers birthday at 718-475-5274. in a unique and special way. In addition to the fun and excitement, your child will experience some of the important aspects Rab’s Country Lanes of the martial arts including an increase 1600 Hylan Blvd., 718-979-1600 or in confidence, respect, coordination, and www.rabscountrylanes.com fitness. Parties are 2 to 2 1/2 hour(s) long Whether it’s for your friends, family or and are run by two of our professional children... staff members. We throw the BEST PARTY IN TOWN! Our Party Package: parties are easy on parents, exciting for the Gold Party-Two hours=$299 ( with a $50 birthday child and a blast for their friends! Deposit) Best of all, we do all the work! VIP Party-2 ½ hours=$349 (with a $100 Deposit) Richmond Choral Society All Parties Include: Youth Chorus Up to 25 kids, Invitation Cards, One hour 2205 Richmond Road, 718-448-3656 or of races, games….FUN!, www.richmondchoral.com Richmond Choral Society Youth Chorus Pretzels, chips, and juice was created in 2003 as the junior divi- Pizza for children, Standard Paper Products, sion of the Richmond Choral Society. 20 minute Karate class, Young singers encounter a variety of fun Two of our awesome instructors, who and challenging musical experiences and will host the entire party from set-up to receive instruction in vocal production, clean-up music literacy, and concert performance. All you have to do is: Bring in the kids and Richmond Choral society Youth Chorus the Cake!! recruits students entering fourth to twelfth Call now and book your kids best Karate grades: choral singing is fun and challeng- Birthday Party Ever! ing. Summer workshop is July 9th -13th 10am-1pm at Christ Church located at 76 Additional Themes + $50 (Nerf War, Franklyn Avenue. Samurai Showdown) Staten Island Children’s Calla Karate & JuJutsu 1293 Castleton Avenue Museum 718-720-2509 or www.callakarate.com 1000 Richmond Terrace (Snug Harbor), Have a Calla Karate BIRTHDAY PARTY. THE Staten Island ORIGINAL MARTIAL ARTS LOCATION ON 718 273-2060, ext. 264, www. STATEN ISLAND. A BLACK BELT SCHOOL statenislandkids.org, info@ OF EXCELLENCE. Let’s Move! PeeWee- statenislandkids.org Children-2 hour party up to 15 guests. Have your next party at Staten Island’s Special gift for Birthday child. FREE Karate favorite family destination! Class and games, pizza and beverage for all The Basic Birthday Party Package includes: attending the party. We offer pay as you A party room for two hours; An educator- go lessons, or purchase a session plan. Log led visit to the exhibits of your choice; onto our web site for more information. Free museum admission for party guests; Balloon centerpieces, Pizza and drinks for JCC of Staten Island all children; Invitations, balloons, party hats The world renowned early childhood music & movement program 1466 Manor Road, www.sijcc.org and paper goods, Food for adults avail- Have you ever returned from a fabulous able at an additional charge, Craft project, for children; newborn - age 5 and the grown ups who love them! birthday party thinking to yourself “How limbo, temporary tattoos and lots of music; did she do that? Everything was perfect. Free trial membership for eligible party Convenient Locations: The kids had fun and the Mom and Dad guests; Discounts for weekday parties and seemed so calm”. One possibility is that museum members. North Shore, Mid Island & South Shore the party was held at the Bernikow JCC of Classes available mornings, afternoon & weekends Staten Island where a full party package Staten Island Family includes pizza, cake, beverages, plastic Music ware and table settings for up to 20 chil- Newborn dren - but that’s not the fun part. JCC par- 358 Forest Avenue Magical ties are so popular because our party pack- 888-731-8719 or www.sifamilymusic. REGISTER NOW FOR To com or email [email protected] Musical Birthday age also includes ONE hour of swim in our SPRING CLASSES Age 5 Olympic size pool or one HOUR of Mixed Staten Island Family Music is now offering Parties sports in our new gymnasium such as bas- Magical, Musical Birthday Parties! ketball, relay races, soccer and more!! The Fill your child’s next birthday with music & Call Staten Island Family Music: 888-731-8719 children love to play party games such as memories! musical chairs or freeze dance in our party At your party location or at our studio sing- for more information or to room with our two fun and entertaining ing & clapping, dancing & drumming, wig- REGISTER FOR A FREE TRIAL CLASS! Party Hosts who are with your children gling & giggling and tons of FUN! from start to finish. Don’t sweat the details For more information please call or visit our because that is what the complimentary Check out our website: www.sifamilymusic.com website. Birthday Coordinator and Party Hosts do Mary Aloia, Program Director for you!! Parents of your child’s friends Mention Staten Island Family Magazine Making Staten Island a more harmonious place since 2001 can have some fun while waiting because when you call & save $25.00! each party package includes 10 compli- Yippee! 30 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 7+(21/<3/$&( 72*2%2:/,1*

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#1 bowling watch destination Bowling makes for bowling for leagues scores the perfect livE birthday for all! fundraiser! parties! 21/,1( home to staten island`s only laser maze! bowling is the sport where no one rides the bench... more activity each outing than many other recreations provide and no rain outs! Youth Bowling Programs for KIDS of ALL ages NOW FORMING! AGES 7 and Under ages 8 to 12 have-a-ball youth bowling club Instruction, awards, usa bowling program everyone gets a bowling ball! & fun all instruction and competition wednesday afternoons at 4pm in a safe saturday mornings at 11am or saturday mornings at 11am enviornment! +\ODQ%RXOHYDUG_6WDWHQ,VODQG1< _ZZZERZODWUDEVFRP

Special Advertising Section April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 31 PERSONAL ESSAY It can’t be easy, being a BABY One dad’s BY TIM PERRINS f you are the parent of a newborn thoughts on baby here in the 21st century, I you surely know that there’s a dazzling abundance of technology why newborns and information to aid in the wran- gling of your tiny new human being. put up a fight There are smartphone apps that allow you to document every ac- when trying tion taken by (or perpetrated on) your child, from feedings to bowel movements to naps. You can attend anything new baby yoga classes, read online articles about overcoming colic, and even watch YouTube videos to learn to decipher the sounds your baby makes, so that you will know ex- actly what she needs as soon as she makes a peep. My wife and I have all of these resources at our disposal, and yet there are still times when we cannot keep our wee little girl from crying and screaming like a fun-size banshee. Sometimes the baby is hungry — I know this because she makes “the hungry sound,” and also because the iPhone app tells me she says so — but just as she’s about to nurse, she suddenly flails her little arms and legs and wails uncon- knows — for babies, that first tran- a single baby who can recall any of trollably. Then, a minute later, she sition is a doozy. it! Until I hear a better explanation turns back and suckles contentedly Childbirth is painful for the from the medical community, I’m for the next half hour. woman giving birth. I know this assuming this is because babies After struggling through count- because — throughout labor — my find the whole ordeal so shock- less incidents like that one, I finally wife conveyed this fact to me quite ing and traumatic they just block figured something out. You can clearly (not very eloquently, but ex- it from their memory. Pretty solid meet all of your little one’s needs tremely clearly). On the other hand, reasoning, no? with ever-greater efficiency, but the nobody really talks about how trau- Just in case my amateur psychol- bottom line is still this: newborns matizing the whole process must ogy isn’t that convincing, let’s look have a problem with transition. And be for the baby. I mean, in spite of at it like this: after the better part with good reason — as anyone all her agony, a mother remembers of a year in the soothing embrace who has participated in childbirth giving birth, but I have yet to meet of her mother’s uterus, bathed in

32 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 PERSONAL ESSAY Suzanne’s Fashion Corner Ltd. It can’t be and easy, being a Beautiful Clothing & Accessories for Women, Children & Babies

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To Expect” books, advice from allow you to document every ac- From there, she is ejected, other already-born babies, or the www.suzannesfashioncorner.com when trying tion taken by (or perpetrated on) naked and bewildered, into the indispensable insights of Dr. Oz. your child, from feedings to bowel cold air and the stark light of day. The truth is, apart from a vague movements to naps. You can attend That is, if she makes it that far; my sense-memory of all those Mozart anything new baby yoga classes, read online ar- own dear little peanut, after en- recordings you dutifully played ticles about overcoming colic, and during the torments of labor, had for her in the womb, and then the even watch YouTube videos to learn the added peril and indignity of horrifying ordeal of birth, your to decipher the sounds your baby emerging with the umbilical cord newborn has no experience of makes, so that you will know ex- wrapped around her neck. (She’s anything whatsoever. actly what she needs as soon as she fine, fortunately, but apparently So the next time you find your- makes a peep. that’s a hazard shared by at least self exasperated, unable to fig- My wife and I have all of these a third of all tiny humans.) It’s a ure out why your darling baby is resources at our disposal, and yet cruel joke, if you’re a baby, that at shrieking like a hyena and fighting there are still times when we can- the instant you’re born, the life- your every effort to put that ador- not keep our wee little girl from line that nourished you for so long able elephant-print onesie on over crying and screaming like a fun-size becomes a deadly snare, waiting her head, take extra pity on her. banshee. to strangle your first breath away She may be thoroughly rested, Sometimes the baby is hungry from you. well fed, and properly burped, but — I know this because she makes And if that’s not bad enough, based on her very limited under- “the hungry sound,” and also be- there’s more! Even if you have standing of this world, every time cause the iPhone app tells me she a qualified medical provider on she senses the beginning of any says so — but just as she’s about to hand who’s experienced with kind of transition, she just might nurse, she suddenly flails her little such a dangerous situation — for be struck with the terrifying feel- arms and legs and wails uncon- knows — for babies, that first tran- a single baby who can recall any of instance, our wonderful midwife ing that she’s about to be born all trollably. Then, a minute later, she sition is a doozy. it! Until I hear a better explanation — chances are she’ll turn to the over again. It’s going to take her turns back and suckles contentedly Childbirth is painful for the from the medical community, I’m expectant father, who at that mo- a little while longer to figure out for the next half hour. woman giving birth. I know this assuming this is because babies ment is so delirious and sleep- that the terrible past is behind After struggling through count- because — throughout labor — my find the whole ordeal so shock- deprived that he probably can’t her, and that she’s living in the less incidents like that one, I finally wife conveyed this fact to me quite ing and traumatic they just block be trusted to sign his own name, future now. figured something out. You can clearly (not very eloquently, but ex- it from their memory. Pretty solid and SHE’LL HAND HIM A BIG PAIR Tim Perrins is a part-time stay-at- meet all of your little one’s needs tremely clearly). On the other hand, reasoning, no? OF SCISSORS. Then she’ll point to home dad who lives with his wife and with ever-greater efficiency, but the nobody really talks about how trau- Just in case my amateur psychol- the thick cord wrapped around their brand new tiny human in Park bottom line is still this: newborns matizing the whole process must ogy isn’t that convincing, let’s look the baby’s delicate little neck and Slope, Brooklyn. More of his thoughts have a problem with transition. And be for the baby. I mean, in spite of at it like this: after the better part say, “you wanna take a whack at about babies and other things that with good reason — as anyone all her agony, a mother remembers of a year in the soothing embrace that?” confuse him can be found at www.Re- who has participated in childbirth giving birth, but I have yet to meet of her mother’s uterus, bathed in Now, all of that already stacks voltOfTheImbeciles.blogspot.com.

April 2012 • staten island FaMilY 33 CRAFTS Find new use for old clothes with a Quilt Turn your BY KATHY SENA ’m guessing you’ve done what I child’s baby did. As your children got older, Iyou gave away many of his baby clothes — but you kept the ones clothes into that meant the most to you. The ones that spark special memories of a little boy running around the a family house in Buzz Lightyear jammies or a little girl dancing in her Cinder- heirloom ella Halloween costume. Or, perhaps you have a stack of T-shirts from high school, college, or family vacations. No matter where your memories come from, if they’re made of fabric, they can be turned into a unique quilt. Think of it as a scrapbook page that will The author’s son with the quilt made of his baby clothes. decorate your home, keep your family toasty warm, and become a made my family’s quilt, check out special baby and toddler clothes family treasure. The Quilt Loft (www.tshirtquilt.com) and turned them into the most gor- and Jelly Bean Quilts (www.jelly- geous, hand-crafted quilt I’ve ever Lots of options beanquilts.com). All feature ador- seen. Every item of clothing was Google “T-shirt quilts” and you’ll able photos of finished quilts on pressed and arranged in a cute way find a number of companies that their websites. on its own square and then care- make them, of course. But not every- fully stitched down, so it will stay one does the baby-clothes version. In Preserving memories put. As I told my husband, it looks addition to Campus Quilt Co. (www. The folks at Campus Quilt Co. as if someone who loves our family campusquilt.com), the company that in Louisville, Ky. took my son’s (and who is very talented!) made Shower a new mom with this quilt “When a friend was pregnant “We had fabric from a grand- passed, it was especially poignant with her first child, I asked the ma’s apron, an uncle cut up one for the new mom,” she adds. “And extended family and her close of his lucky flannel fishing shirts, a close friend sent fabric from one friends to send me a nine-by- and an older cousin sent a T-shirt of her son’s onesies and added a nine-inch square of fabric that from his college alma mater, hop- poem, about looking forward to represented their hobby, some- ing to recruit early,” says Jones. having a new lifelong friend, writ- thing that represented them in “Another family member cut ten in fabric paint across it. The some other way, or something some fabric from the great grand- quilt was adorable, and we gave they wanted to teach the child mother’s sewing fabrics that had it to the mom-to-be at the shower one day,” says Candace Jones of been stored in an attic. Since the with a little write up of who sent Irving, Texas. great grandmother had recently what, and why.”

34 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 CRAFTS No matter where your memories come from, if they’re made Find new use for of fabric, they can be Music is Universal. turned into a unique old clothes with a quilt. “ ” THE COOLEST SHOW EVER! JIMMY FALLON, this quilt. It’s a work of art that informed at every step of the will last for generations. process. Having the quilt makes me realize how important it is to enjoy What will you use these treasured memories, in- for your quilt? stead of keeping them in a box. Don’t have enough of your ba- Now I can see and touch, once by’s clothes for a quilt? Want to again, Matt’s first Halloween cos- do something different? Here are Quilt tume, when he was a 10-month- some other ideas for choosing old little pumpkin; his Spiderman items for a great quilt: BY KATHY SENA jammies; the “I Love Grandma” s4 SHIRTS FROM YOUR FAMILYS Turn your sweatshirt that includes Matt’s travels. ’m guessing you’ve done what I toddler handprints in fabric paint; s3QUARES MADE FROM YOUR child’s baby did. As your children got older, his Woody “Toy Story” jammies; young swimmer’s beach towels. “BLUE MAN GROUP MEETS GLEE!” Iyou gave away many of his baby and his Superman T-shirt. (Use your quilt to stay warm clothes — but you kept the ones What sentimental mom at those early morning swim t PHOTOS BY LEON SOKOLETSKI clothes into that meant the most to you. The wouldn’t love that? And it’s some- meets.) TELECHARGE.COM 212-239-6200 ones that spark special memories thing that I know I’ll eventually s"ABY CLOTHING FROM DIFFERENT For groups & birthday parties contact 1-877-401-8542 or [email protected] of a little boy running around the pass down to Matt. A true family generations. Did your mom save New World Stages, 340 West 50th Street tVocaPeopleNYC.com a family house in Buzz Lightyear jammies heirloom. (Won’t his kids giggle some of your own baby clothes? or a little girl dancing in her Cinder- when they see their dad’s toddler- Combine them with your child’s heirloom ella Halloween costume. sized Superman shirt one day? I for a true keepsake. Or, perhaps you have a stack love the thought of that.) s&ABRIC FROM YOUR WEDDING of T-shirts from high school, col- Campus Quilt Co. prices run dress and a bridesmaid’s dress. lege, or family vacations. No matter from $129 for a nine-square lap s&ABRICSQUARESINYOURCHILDS where your memories come from, if quilt (the squares on these quilts high school colors, mixed with SAVE UP TO 40% they’re made of fabric, they can be are big — 15 inches) to $419 for a squares featuring school T-shirts turned into a unique quilt. Think 49-square, king-size quilt. These from sports teams or school of it as a scrapbook page that will The author’s son with the quilt made of his baby clothes. are the prices if the quilt is made clubs. decorate your home, keep your from just T-shirts. There are ad- s(IGHSCHOOLORCOLLEGESWEAT family toasty warm, and become a made my family’s quilt, check out special baby and toddler clothes ditional charges for doing special shirts from different family mem- family treasure. The Quilt Loft (www.tshirtquilt.com) and turned them into the most gor- detailed work with baby clothes, bers. and Jelly Bean Quilts (www.jelly- geous, hand-crafted quilt I’ve ever adding strips of extra fabric be- s#OSTUMESFROMSCHOOLPLAYS Lots of options beanquilts.com). All feature ador- seen. Every item of clothing was tween the squares, etc. Call and s(ALLOWEENCOSTUMES Google “T-shirt quilts” and you’ll able photos of finished quilts on pressed and arranged in a cute way tell them what you have in mind, The list is endless — and if find a number of companies that their websites. on its own square and then care- and they can give you all the de- you’re a new parent, and you’re make them, of course. But not every- fully stitched down, so it will stay tails regarding cost. just beginning to save special one does the baby-clothes version. In Preserving memories put. As I told my husband, it looks I was a little worried about items like the receiving blanket addition to Campus Quilt Co. (www. The folks at Campus Quilt Co. as if someone who loves our family packing up these precious baby your baby wore in the hospi- campusquilt.com), the company that in Louisville, Ky. took my son’s (and who is very talented!) made clothes and sending them, but tal, the little soft cap the nurses the company took great care to placed on her head, and those oh- make sure my items were trans- so-tiny socks, you’re in luck. You A NEW MUSICAL ported safely. They sent a kit that can plan ahead and save those Shower a new mom with this quilt explains everything, and they in- items until you have just the right “When a friend was pregnant “We had fabric from a grand- passed, it was especially poignant cluded a large, heavy-duty mail- collection to make a quilt you’ll with her first child, I asked the ma’s apron, an uncle cut up one for the new mom,” she adds. “And ing bag and a pre-addressed label treasure. It will warm your heart Photo: Chris Callis extended family and her close of his lucky flannel fishing shirts, a close friend sent fabric from one for shipping. as well as your bed. Just ask Su- friends to send me a nine-by- and an older cousin sent a T-shirt of her son’s onesies and added a Then they e-mailed me when perman’s mom. nine-inch square of fabric that from his college alma mater, hop- poem, about looking forward to they received my package. They Campus Quilt Co. [Louisville, Ky., CALL 212.947.8844 AND USE THE CODE LFGEN36 represented their hobby, some- ing to recruit early,” says Jones. having a new lifelong friend, writ- kept me informed of the prog- (502) 968-2850]. For more, visit www. ONLINE GO TO BROADWAYOFFERS.COM & USE CODE LFGEN36 thing that represented them in “Another family member cut ten in fabric paint across it. The ress on my quilt, and they got campusquilt.com. some other way, or something some fabric from the great grand- quilt was adorable, and we gave in touch with a tracking number Freelance writer Kathy Sena is VISIT ST. JAMES THEATRE BOX OFFICE, 246 WEST 44TH ST. & BRING THIS AD they wanted to teach the child mother’s sewing fabrics that had it to the mom-to-be at the shower when they shipped the quilt back mom to 16-year-old Matt. She still has Must purchase by 4/26 for performances through 5/13 one day,” says Candace Jones of been stored in an attic. Since the with a little write up of who sent to me. They understand how im- lots of baby treasures squirreled away Offer subject to availability. Valid on select locations only. Blackout dates may apply. Not valid on prior purchases and cannot be combined with any other Irving, Texas. great grandmother had recently what, and why.” portant these memories are, and in the family cedar chest, including the discounts or promotions. All sales ﬁnal; no refunds or exchanges. Telephone and internet orders are subject to standard Telecharge.com service fees. they make sure customers are well-loved “Mr. Bear.” A $2.00 theatre facility fee is included in the price of the ticket. Limit 8 tickets per order. Offer expires April 26, 2012 but may be revoked at any time.

April 2012 Ì ÊÓä£ÓÊUÊ • staten XXXXXisland FaMilYFAMILY 35 31 ADVICE

guardian for your minor children if you and your spouse The ins and outs both passed away (or were both incapacitated)? s 7 H O DOYOUWANT of an estate plan to make medical decisions on your be- What is an estate plan? My hus- meet the individual or couple’s ob- half if you were unable to do so? band and I own our apartment, but jectives and concerns. s 7 H O DOYOUWANTTOHANDLEYOUR we don’t have a lot of income or as- An estate plan lays out how your financial affairs if you were to become sets. Do we really need a Last Will and assets are to be distributed upon incapacitated? ASK AN Testament? your death through a will or trust, s 7 H E N YOUDIE HOWDOYOUWANT and designates the individual or in- your assets distributed? If you have ATTORNEY he answer to whether you dividuals you want to handle your children, at what age would you want ALISON ARDEN BESUNDER, need a Last Will and Testa- financial and health matters dur- them to receive the principal assets? ESQ. T ment is an emphatic yes! A ing your lifetime through the use of s 7 H O WOULDYOUWANTTOADMINIS- will is part of your overall estate a power of attorney, a healthcare ter and distribute your assets upon plan, which simply means that you proxy, and living will. your death? have put the documents in place to The best place to start is to Even if you do not have the an- ensure that your needs and your inventory and analyze the extent swers to each of these questions, family’s needs are met during your and nature of your assets. This in- you can start the process, and an lifetime and upon your death. A cludes your home, second homes, attorney can help you evaluate your thorough and comprehensive plan business interests (yes, even if you choices and make a decision. If you typically includes not only a will, are a sole member of your com- already have an estate plan in place, but also advanced directives such pany!), cash, stocks, bonds, annui- you should review it every few years as a healthcare proxy, living will, ties, retirement savings, and insur- or after major life developments, such and power of attorney. For some ance policies. The next step is to as the birth of a child (or grandchild), people, but not everyone, a revo- consider the following questions: after a divorce, the death of a spouse, cable or irrevocable trust may help s 7 H O DO YOU WANT TO ACT AS a decline in health, or significant change in financial circumstances, or any of the above occurring in the life of one of your selected fiducia- ries. Different issues arise throughout your lifetime, and changes in the law may occur which impact your plan. By addressing these issues now and implementing an estate plan, you can avoid placing unnecessary stress and confusion on your loved ones in a time of crisis. An estate plan states to your family members and beneficiaries how you would want things handled in a crisis or at your death, or even when you are no longer able to state those wishes for yourself. Being clear about your intentions can prevent lengthy and costly legal battles, and preserves family harmony. Alison Arden Besunder is the found- ing attorney of the Law Offices of Alison Arden Besunder P.C., where she assists new and not-so-new parents with their estate-planning needs. Her firm assists clients in New York City, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties. You can find Besunder on Twitter @estatetrustplan and on her website at www.besunderlaw.com.

Disclaimer: This column is provided by the Law Offices of Alison Arden Besunder P.C. and New York Parenting Media as a public service to inform readers of legal issues. It is not intended to advise. Since legal issues vary with an individual’s situation and needs, one should consult with an attorney. It is impossible to cover all aspects of the law in an article. Please be advised that the laws are constantly changing. The content in this article reflects the current law. Nothing contained in this article is intended as advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and the firm. Individual consultation with an attorney is required to determine the specific facts and circumstances of any particular situation. A written retainer agreement between you and the firm is required before any attorney-client relationship may be created. Circular 230 Disclosure Notice: To ensure compliance with Treasury Department rules governing tax practice, we inform you that any advice contained herein (including in any attachment) (1) was not written and is not intended to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty that may be imposed on the taxpayer, and (2) may not be used in connection with promoting, marketing or recommending to another person any transaction or matter addressed herein. 36 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 ADVICE ARE YOU HIGHLY MOTIVATED? Like Us on Earn Extra $$$!!! guardian for your minor children if Learn how you can operate a you and your spouse mini-ofﬁce outlet from home. The ins and outs both passed away (or were both inca- UÊÀiiÊiÊÌÀ>} pacitated)? UÊiÝLiÊÕÀÃ s 7 H O DOYOUWANT of an estate plan to make medical de- UÊÀi>ÌÊvÀÊÌiÊÃ cisions on your be- to WIN What is an estate plan? My hus- meet the individual or couple’s ob- half if you were unable to do so? Visit us at band and I own our apartment, but jectives and concerns. s 7 H O DOYOUWANTTOHANDLEYOUR www.goldenventure.net we don’t have a lot of income or as- An estate plan lays out how your financial affairs if you were to become tickets or sets. Do we really need a Last Will and assets are to be distributed upon incapacitated? ASK AN Testament? your death through a will or trust, s 7 H E N YOUDIE HOWDOYOUWANT and designates the individual or in- your assets distributed? If you have ATTORNEY he answer to whether you dividuals you want to handle your children, at what age would you want prizes ALISON ARDEN BESUNDER, need a Last Will and Testa- financial and health matters dur- them to receive the principal assets? ESQ. T ment is an emphatic yes! A ing your lifetime through the use of s 7 H O WOULDYOUWANTTOADMINIS- will is part of your overall estate a power of attorney, a healthcare ter and distribute your assets upon plan, which simply means that you proxy, and living will. your death? Visit us at our have put the documents in place to The best place to start is to Even if you do not have the an- ensure that your needs and your inventory and analyze the extent swers to each of these questions, NYParenting page family’s needs are met during your and nature of your assets. This in- you can start the process, and an lifetime and upon your death. A cludes your home, second homes, attorney can help you evaluate your and register to win thorough and comprehensive plan business interests (yes, even if you choices and make a decision. If you typically includes not only a will, are a sole member of your com- already have an estate plan in place, but also advanced directives such pany!), cash, stocks, bonds, annui- you should review it every few years as a healthcare proxy, living will, ties, retirement savings, and insur- or after major life developments, such and power of attorney. For some ance policies. The next step is to as the birth of a child (or grandchild), people, but not everyone, a revo- consider the following questions: after a divorce, the death of a spouse, cable or irrevocable trust may help s 7 H O DO YOU WANT TO ACT AS a decline in health, or significant Book and Lyrics by SANDY RUSTIN change in financial circumstances, Attention All Writers! or any of the above occurring in the We’re looking for personal essays Music and Lyrics by DAN LIPTON & DAVID ROSSMER life of one of your selected fiducia- ries. Different issues arise throughout about you, your family and life your lifetime, and changes in the law may occur which impact your plan. in your community. “P IS FOR By addressing these issues now and implementing an estate plan, you can avoid placing unnecessary Partner with us and share your stress and confusion on your loved PERFECT!” ones in a time of crisis. An estate PETER FILICHIA, THE STAR-LEDGER plan states to your family members stories and your memories. and beneficiaries how you would Westside Theatre 407 W. 43rd St. Telecharge.com or 212.239.6200 want things handled in a crisis or at Email [email protected] to your death, or even when you are Childcare available select perfs. Visit RatedPTheMusical.com no longer able to state those wishes have your piece included in our & DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY MICHA HAMILTON for yourself. Being clear about your intentions can prevent lengthy and magazine and on our website. costly legal battles, and preserves HAPPY HENRY family harmony. Alison Arden Besunder is the found- “The Wizard/Magician Clown” ing attorney of the Law Offices of Alison Close Up Magic Arden Besunder P.C., where she assists AT ITS VERY FINEST new and not-so-new parents with their UÊ -" Ê estate-planning needs. Her firm assists UÊ "" Ê - clients in New York City, Nassau, and UÊ Ê* / Suffolk Counties. You can find Besunder UÊ1-" -Ê Ê1 , -Ê on Twitter @estatetrustplan and on her "Ê "-/1 Ê , / ,- website at www.besunderlaw.com. ÀÌ `>ÞÃ]Ê >ÀÊ ÌâÛ> Ã]Ê ÀÃÌi}Ã]Ê `Ài½ÃÊ>`Ê`ÕÌÊ*>ÀÌiÃ Disclaimer: This column is provided by the Law Offices of Alison Arden Besunder P.C. and New York Parenting Media as a public service to inform readers of legal issues. It is not intended to advise. Since legal issues vary with an individual’s situation and needs, one should consult with an attorney. It is impossible to cover all aspects of the law in an article. Please be advised that the laws are constantly changing. The content in this article reflects the current law. Nothing contained CORPORATE ACCOUNTS WELCOME in this article is intended as advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and the firm. Individual consultation with an attorney is required to determine the specific facts and circumstances of any particular situ- -ii 917-617-3698 ation. A written retainer agreement between you and the firm is required before any attorney-client relationship may be created. Circular 230 Disclosure Notice: To ensure compliance with Treasury Department rules governing tax practice, we " inform you that any advice contained herein (including in any attachment) (1) was not written and is not intended to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty that may be imposed on the taxpayer, and www.HappyHenrytheWizard.com (2) may not be used in connection with promoting, marketing or recommending to another person any transaction or matter addressed herein. April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 37 HEALTH Time for allergies! The season is here, but you can still enjoy it

ave you noticed that the stantly itchy,” says O’Hara. “We suffer,” he says. green grass hasn’t quite van- both started on allergy medications “Make sure that you tailor your H ished this year? Whether earlier in the year than we had in medications to your symptoms. you were in Central Park or Pros- the past.” Many people purchase over-the- pect Park, you may have noticed The O’Hara’s are not alone. The counter medications, because the HEALTHY that, unlike other years when the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of box says ‘allergy,’ and they end up green shades turned to a dusty America reports that allergy is the ingesting a medication they don’t LIVING brown over the winter months, for fifth leading chronic disease in the need — for example, an allergy pill DANIELLE SULLIVAN the most part, the grass has stayed U.S. among all ages, and the third might contain a decongestant, but green all winter long. While pleas- most common chronic disease you are trying to address itchy eyes. ing to the eye, the very fact that among children under 18 years old, Take care to read all labels, or speak plants have sustained life since last with an estimated 50 million Ameri- with your physician, to ensure that year could spell out trouble for cans suffering from all types of al- you are taking something that will those of us with seasonal allergies. lergies. Experts say that the preva- address your particular symptoms.” lence of allergies O’Hara agrees and says that she is significantly was on the fence about getting her increasing, and son allergy tested and hadn’t even although allergies considered her common complaints are widespread, of itchy eyes and post nasal drip to they are often the be a problem, but when her son un- most overlooked derwent testing, she did, too. Both disease. tested positive for the same pollen A key part of allergy and since they’ve been on any treatment medication, they have felt consider- plan is to receive ably better. the proper diag- Realistically, because pollen nosis and manage- counts have started increasing ear- ment plan for your lier this year, doctors say we can ex- specific allergy, pect symptoms to last longer and be instead of mixing more severe. Symptoms include: medications for s ) TC H Y WATERYEYES allergies you may s3NEEZING not have. s2UNNINGNOSE “One of the s . A S A L CONGESTION most important s 0O S T N A S A L DRIP tips, which might Treatments such as over-the- seem self-evident, counter Allegra pills may provide is to ensure that some relief, but allergy shots deliver you are using med- the longest-term support. ications properly,” There are a few easy tips that explains Dr. Scott moms and dads should do daily to Gottlieb, director help combat allergies in their chil- of pain manage- dren (and themselves): ment at Manhat- s!VOIDOUTSIDEPLAYONLATEAFTER- On top of that, the flowers and trees tan Eye and Ear Infirmary. “For ex- noons when it’s dry and windy, since have budded earlier because of the ample, nasal steroids can be very pollen counts peak under those cir- mild winter — and the spring aller- effective for those who suffer from cumstances gies have arrived earlier, too. hay fever, but you must start using s 4A KE A LONG SHOWER AT THE END Sandy O’Hara of Murray Hill them well before symptoms appear. of the day to wash away any pollen says her whole family suffers from They prevent, rather than treat, the stuck in hair. seasonal allergies. Sandy and her symptoms. If you start taking them Danielle Sullivan, a Brooklyn-born 5-year-old son, Matthew, are aller- after your symptoms have kicked in, mom of three, has worked as a writer gic to pollen and dust mites, and they will be less effective.” and editor in the parenting world for her husband, Frank has hay fever. Along the same lines, it’s vital more than 10 years. She also writes for “Early March was particularly to fill prescriptions before allergy Babble.com. Find her on Facebook and bad for my son and me. We were season, “so that you have your Twitter @DanniSullWriter, or at her blog, sneezing and our eyes were con- arsenal ready before you begin to Just Write Mom.

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April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 39 psychotherapists are all enlisted by the other end of the resort. PARENTING parents to shore up performance Not surprisingly, later in life, and help ensure the kind of aca- the children had difficulty demic and athletic success so prized dealing with their feelings of in my community.” neglect and abandonment, developed serious drug ad- Seeking approval dictions, and fell in trouble Consequently, some of these with the law. teens have developed such a need Levine uses these cases for acceptance from their parents to show that children de- that they feel they are playing roles sire to feel secure and Money doesn’t of what is expected of them, instead loved unconditionally, of forging their own identities as in- and that parents need dividuals. to spend quality time Constantly seeking approval from with their children and their parents, these teens are not listen carefully to their learning to act instinctually and de- thoughts and desires. velop an inner sense of self. With busy working par- “The kids I see have been given all ents and overscheduled kinds of material advantages, yet feel kids, families need to buy happiness that they have nothing genuine to slow down and create anchor their lives to,” writes Levine. peaceful moments when “They lack spontaneity, creativity, they can spend mean- BY ALLISON PLITT states. “As a result, there is an in- enthusiasm, and, most disturbingly, ingful time together. Psychologist’s verse relationship between income the capacity for pleasure.” hey are the top students in and closeness to parents. Lower- Advice for new book their classes, play varsity socioeconomic kids are far more Case studies parents T sports, and are editors of likely to report feeling close to their Levine refers to many of her own Levine offers ad- their school newspapers or year- parents than kids from high socio- case histories in her book. In one, vice to these parents finds the best books. They come from intact homes economic homes.” she writes about a son who works to help them develop of married parents who have high And the effects of this trend, hard to gain acceptance to his fa- better relationships things in life expectations for their children and Levine says, are producing dire con- ther’s Ivy League alma mater, but with their children, have few worries about giving their sequences: since 1950, teenage sui- once he arrives on campus, he’s so saying that children kids iPhones, laptops, and cars. cide rates have quadrupled. She at- miserable that he develops a drink- crave rituals and tra- are free These are not students prepared tributes this to parents who overly ing problem. The son ends up re- ditions. to graduate from high school and stress academics, so they can pre- turning home and attending a local “Perhaps the sin- head off to college, but rather teen- pare their children to graduate from college where he finally studies a gle most important agers sitting in psychologists’ offices elite colleges and find well-paying subject that interests him, makes ritual a family can throughout the nation talking about jobs, which they feel will bring the friends, and finds himself a girlfriend observe is having how empty they feel and how discon- kids a standard of living that was, in who shares his interests and values. dinner together,” nected they are from their parents. Madeline Levine, PhD, is the author of reality, much more easily obtainable Then, there is the teenage girl she writes. “Fami- They are usually suffering from de- “The Price of Privilege.” 60 years ago. who is studying dance. Her father, lies who eat to- pression and anxiety and are on the Modern society continues to em- a prominent businessman who is gether five or more cusp of developing an addiction to parents producing spoiled, entitled phasize the idea that material wealth usually physically and emotionally times a week have drugs, alcohol, or food. children with poor values,” she is a sign of success, Levine says, and absent from the home, does not take kids who are sig- In her book, “The Price of Privi- writes. “But my experience leads me families think they must always look her interest in dance seriously. As a nificantly less likely lege,” psychologist Madeline Levine to a very different conclusion. Most good in the eyes of their neighbors. result, the teenager falls into a deep to use tobacco, alcohol, or mari- children spend watching discusses what she sees as a trend of my patients are deeply troubled, In addition to being able to afford depression. It is her stay-at-home juana, have higher grade point aver- TV, texting, or using the computer. among some affluent families that is not spoiled; most of their parents are expensive homes and cars, parents mother, also suffering from depres- ages, less depressive symptoms, and When parents do not set boundar- Levine’s book makes a convincing sweeping across the United States. not narcissistic, but are struggling, also want children who are model sion, who becomes her ally and sup- fewer suicide attempts than families ies, she says, kids often feel that their case about the parenting phenom- According to Levine, some well-to-do often quite alone, with their own students and athletes, and have ports her daughter as she pursues a who eat together two or fewer times parents don’t care enough about enon that is ailing many well-to-do parents have become so obsessed problems.” come to demand perfection from career in dance. a week.” them to raise them more strictly. families nationwide. If parents re- with providing materialistically com- In order to send their children to their kids. On the other hand, these Levine discusses case histories Parents do not need to stay at Levine also believes that parents ally want their children to succeed, fortable lifestyles for their children, the best schools and provide them parents are also overprotecting their with which readers can identify, but home and not work in order to spend should have their children do chores they must teach their kids to be ac- that they have neglected to nurture with after-school lessons and the lat- children to the point that the kids she also has patients who recount quality time with their children, she or get part-time jobs to learn the im- countable for their actions, instead their children’s own self-identities. est electronic gadgets, these parents lack the emotional and social skills unbelievable stories. In one instance, says, but rather, should know that an portance of hard work as a motivat- of placing responsibility and blame need to work longer hours, thus, necessary to survive on their own a teenager’s quiet, artistic nature was emotionally happy child most often ing factor for achievement. She views upon others. Most importantly, fami- Too much pressure leaving less time for them to spend once they leave home. so ignored by his parents, he devel- has emotionally happy parents. She the responsibility of holding a job lies must provide a nurturing home, What the media has dubbed an with their families, says Levine. This, “While demands for outstanding oped a cocaine problem in his teens. aims this specifically at mothers, as a more valuable experience for a where their kids feel they can openly “epidemic” is really a vicious cycle of in turn, has a negative effect on the academic or extracurricular perfor- Through therapy, the teenager was since women are usually the ones teenager than getting a report card express themselves and where par- parents working too hard to provide kids. mance are very high, expectations able to quit his addiction, but then who feel conflicted about their deci- with straight As. ents can learn to accept and love the best for their kids, and demand- “In affluent families, where social about family responsibilities are found cocaine in the kitchen of his sions to either stay at home or go She says, however, that teenagers their children for who they are. ing that their kids work just as hard and professional demands can be amazingly low. This kind of imbal- home. Apparently, both his parents back to work after their children are should make their own decisions Allison Plitt is a contributing writer at school and sports, while the kids highly time consuming, there is often ance in expectations results in kids were abusers as well. born. about choosing age-appropriate for New York Parenting Media and a just want to please their parents, a lack of ‘family time.’ In what some who regularly expect others to ‘take Levine also details an account of Teenagers need clearly defined clothing, friends, and extra-curric- mother living in Queens with a 6-year- says Levine. researchers call the ‘silver spoon up the slack,’ rather than learning a teen who went on a resort vacation boundaries, she says, and parents ular activities. In making their own old daughter. If you have ideas to share “The popular press has devoted syndrome,’ affluent kids are often themselves how to prioritize tasks or with his family. His parents not only should enforce household rules choices, teenagers gain self-confi- about topics for articles or resources for rivers of ink to chronicling the ‘epi- painfully aware that they rate low how to manage time,” Levine writes. decided to lodge in a separate room, about curfews, completing home- dence and a sense of independence. families, please contact her at allison- demic’ of narcissistic, over-involved on their parents’ ‘to-do’ list,” Levine “Tutors, coaches, counselors, and they put their children in a villa at work, and the amount of time that sss [email protected].

40 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 psychotherapists are all enlisted by the other end of the resort. PARENTING parents to shore up performance Not surprisingly, later in life, and help ensure the kind of aca- the children had difficulty demic and athletic success so prized dealing with their feelings of in my community.” neglect and abandonment, developed serious drug ad- Seeking approval dictions, and fell in trouble Consequently, some of these with the law. teens have developed such a need Levine uses these cases for acceptance from their parents to show that children de- that they feel they are playing roles sire to feel secure and Money doesn’t of what is expected of them, instead loved unconditionally, of forging their own identities as in- and that parents need dividuals. to spend quality time Constantly seeking approval from with their children and their parents, these teens are not listen carefully to their learning to act instinctually and de- thoughts and desires. velop an inner sense of self. With busy working par- “The kids I see have been given all ents and overscheduled kinds of material advantages, yet feel kids, families need to buy happiness that they have nothing genuine to slow down and create anchor their lives to,” writes Levine. peaceful moments when “They lack spontaneity, creativity, they can spend mean- BY ALLISON PLITT states. “As a result, there is an in- enthusiasm, and, most disturbingly, ingful time together. Psychologist’s verse relationship between income the capacity for pleasure.” hey are the top students in and closeness to parents. Lower- Advice for new book their classes, play varsity socioeconomic kids are far more Case studies parents T sports, and are editors of likely to report feeling close to their Levine refers to many of her own Levine offers ad- their school newspapers or year- parents than kids from high socio- case histories in her book. In one, vice to these parents finds the best books. They come from intact homes economic homes.” she writes about a son who works to help them develop of married parents who have high And the effects of this trend, hard to gain acceptance to his fa- better relationships things in life expectations for their children and Levine says, are producing dire con- ther’s Ivy League alma mater, but with their children, have few worries about giving their sequences: since 1950, teenage sui- once he arrives on campus, he’s so saying that children kids iPhones, laptops, and cars. cide rates have quadrupled. She at- miserable that he develops a drink- crave rituals and tra- are free These are not students prepared tributes this to parents who overly ing problem. The son ends up re- ditions. to graduate from high school and stress academics, so they can pre- turning home and attending a local “Perhaps the sin- head off to college, but rather teen- pare their children to graduate from college where he finally studies a gle most important agers sitting in psychologists’ offices elite colleges and find well-paying subject that interests him, makes ritual a family can throughout the nation talking about jobs, which they feel will bring the friends, and finds himself a girlfriend observe is having how empty they feel and how discon- kids a standard of living that was, in who shares his interests and values. dinner together,” nected they are from their parents. Madeline Levine, PhD, is the author of reality, much more easily obtainable Then, there is the teenage girl she writes. “Fami- They are usually suffering from de- “The Price of Privilege.” 60 years ago. who is studying dance. Her father, lies who eat to- pression and anxiety and are on the Modern society continues to em- a prominent businessman who is gether five or more cusp of developing an addiction to parents producing spoiled, entitled phasize the idea that material wealth usually physically and emotionally times a week have drugs, alcohol, or food. children with poor values,” she is a sign of success, Levine says, and absent from the home, does not take kids who are sig- In her book, “The Price of Privi- writes. “But my experience leads me families think they must always look her interest in dance seriously. As a nificantly less likely lege,” psychologist Madeline Levine to a very different conclusion. Most good in the eyes of their neighbors. result, the teenager falls into a deep to use tobacco, alcohol, or mari- children spend watching discusses what she sees as a trend of my patients are deeply troubled, In addition to being able to afford depression. It is her stay-at-home juana, have higher grade point aver- TV, texting, or using the computer. among some affluent families that is not spoiled; most of their parents are expensive homes and cars, parents mother, also suffering from depres- ages, less depressive symptoms, and When parents do not set boundar- Levine’s book makes a convincing sweeping across the United States. not narcissistic, but are struggling, also want children who are model sion, who becomes her ally and sup- fewer suicide attempts than families ies, she says, kids often feel that their case about the parenting phenom- According to Levine, some well-to-do often quite alone, with their own students and athletes, and have ports her daughter as she pursues a who eat together two or fewer times parents don’t care enough about enon that is ailing many well-to-do parents have become so obsessed problems.” come to demand perfection from career in dance. a week.” them to raise them more strictly. families nationwide. If parents re- with providing materialistically com- In order to send their children to their kids. On the other hand, these Levine discusses case histories Parents do not need to stay at Levine also believes that parents ally want their children to succeed, fortable lifestyles for their children, the best schools and provide them parents are also overprotecting their with which readers can identify, but home and not work in order to spend should have their children do chores they must teach their kids to be ac- that they have neglected to nurture with after-school lessons and the lat- children to the point that the kids she also has patients who recount quality time with their children, she or get part-time jobs to learn the im- countable for their actions, instead their children’s own self-identities. est electronic gadgets, these parents lack the emotional and social skills unbelievable stories. In one instance, says, but rather, should know that an portance of hard work as a motivat- of placing responsibility and blame need to work longer hours, thus, necessary to survive on their own a teenager’s quiet, artistic nature was emotionally happy child most often ing factor for achievement. She views upon others. Most importantly, fami- Too much pressure leaving less time for them to spend once they leave home. so ignored by his parents, he devel- has emotionally happy parents. She the responsibility of holding a job lies must provide a nurturing home, What the media has dubbed an with their families, says Levine. This, “While demands for outstanding oped a cocaine problem in his teens. aims this specifically at mothers, as a more valuable experience for a where their kids feel they can openly “epidemic” is really a vicious cycle of in turn, has a negative effect on the academic or extracurricular perfor- Through therapy, the teenager was since women are usually the ones teenager than getting a report card express themselves and where par- parents working too hard to provide kids. mance are very high, expectations able to quit his addiction, but then who feel conflicted about their deci- with straight As. ents can learn to accept and love the best for their kids, and demand- “In affluent families, where social about family responsibilities are found cocaine in the kitchen of his sions to either stay at home or go She says, however, that teenagers their children for who they are. ing that their kids work just as hard and professional demands can be amazingly low. This kind of imbal- home. Apparently, both his parents back to work after their children are should make their own decisions Allison Plitt is a contributing writer at school and sports, while the kids highly time consuming, there is often ance in expectations results in kids were abusers as well. born. about choosing age-appropriate for New York Parenting Media and a just want to please their parents, a lack of ‘family time.’ In what some who regularly expect others to ‘take Levine also details an account of Teenagers need clearly defined clothing, friends, and extra-curric- mother living in Queens with a 6-year- says Levine. researchers call the ‘silver spoon up the slack,’ rather than learning a teen who went on a resort vacation boundaries, she says, and parents ular activities. In making their own old daughter. If you have ideas to share “The popular press has devoted syndrome,’ affluent kids are often themselves how to prioritize tasks or with his family. His parents not only should enforce household rules choices, teenagers gain self-confi- about topics for articles or resources for rivers of ink to chronicling the ‘epi- painfully aware that they rate low how to manage time,” Levine writes. decided to lodge in a separate room, about curfews, completing home- dence and a sense of independence. families, please contact her at allison- demic’ of narcissistic, over-involved on their parents’ ‘to-do’ list,” Levine “Tutors, coaches, counselors, and they put their children in a villa at work, and the amount of time that sss [email protected].

April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 41 BOOKS PARENTING All about our earth omeday, your children are start with the let- My son eats nothing going to inherit the earth. And ter C. E stands S there is so much to learn be- for earthquakes, fore it becomes theirs. “B is for Blue and V is for vol- Planet,” by Ruth Strother, is just the cano. but awful junk food tool to learn all about our Earth. If you’ve got “B is for Blue Planet” teaches chil- a young reader dren all about the planet by taking in your house, Involving children in the selec- them through the alphabet to intro- you probably tion and preparation of food can duce them to new words, such as A, have at least help them feel more engaged and THE BOOK for amber, the gooey material that one shelf that’s PARENTS interested in veggies and other nu- oozed from trees when dinosaurs filled with books that have been tific explanations tritious foods, and less resistant to WORM walked the earth, and trapped bugs, outgrown. The nice thing about this meant for older kids — or for your- HELPING adult opinions about healthy eating. TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER flowers, and leaves, and then hard- book is that it grows with your child: self, if you need help answering the I often suggest that children accom- ened, rock-like. And while your child read it with a 4 year old, then keep it questions of a curious child. PARENTS pany their parents to a grocery store is learning about old, hard rocks, for the 12 year old she’ll be someday, For preschoolers to middleschool- SHARON C. PETERS, MA and be allowed to choose one or two she’ll also learn about I, for igneous because “B is for Blue Planet” really ers, “B is for Blue Planet” will prove things that they would like. (This rock, which was on the earth before is two books in one. that Earth Day — April 22 — isn’t simple gesture can lessen the in- the dinosaurs that roamed the earth Strother offers a quick, easy-to-un- the only time to be green. For them, evitable unproductive power battles during J, the Jurassic period. derstand poem for younger children, this book is a good lesson and a that can surface while buying food.) Of course, B is for blue planet, each accompanied by a colorful il- great gift. It can also be helpful for parents another name for the earth, because lustration from artist Bob Marstall. “B is for Blue Planet,” by Ruth Strother to ask children to pick recipes from much of it is covered with water You’ll notice, though, that on the [40 pages, Sleeping Bear Press, 2011, a colorful and interesting cookbook and looks blue from space. In all outer half of each letter-page are $16.95] is recommended for children in and make a meal. If a child has that water are coral reefs, which longer, more thorough, more scien- preschool through middleschool. shopped for carrots, broccoli, and spinach; helped chop, clean, or cook the vegetables; and then arranged the food creatively on a plate, it can A real account of a truly horrible disaster be more interesting to eat. A lighthearted attitude in relation our kids complain about their Werner loved working on this great event for which the anniversary to food can also help. Some parents I chores. Every morning, they big ship in the sky, and he was finally looms, “Surviving the Hindenburg” Dear Sharon, know have set up a “play restaurant,” Y have to make their beds and going to see America! is an interesting tale enhanced by Do you have any advice for parents who have children who will not where parents are customers, and straighten up. They help wash the As a cabin boy, his many duties historical information in the front and eat vegetables? I am really concerned about this. My son seems to children serve and prepare a healthy dishes, clean the house, and included making the beds, setting the back pages, which gives young read- only have a palate for junk. He is 9 years old and, although our home menu. Young ones often take pride in pitch in with yard work. tables, washing dishes, and cleaning ers an idea of the magnitude of this di- provides quality nutritional food, he has developed a love of fast food their preparations and can develop They think they’ve got it uniforms. Every day, when he was saster. In telling this story, Verstraete items that he gets when he’s with his friends. It seems other parents a positive relationship to good qual- rough. But as they’ll see in the done with his work, he would visit the gives kids someone to identify with: aren’t as interested in good eating as we are. ity food. new book, “Surviving the Hin- mechanics who manned the engines a boy like them who is witness to an Exchanging rebukes and worry for denburg” by Larry Verstraete, or the riggers who worked at the top event that shocked Americans, and humor and child-centered activity their chores are nothing. At of the airship. It was a bit of a balanc- the Germans who made the zeppelin. Dear Parent, mind that might help your son be- (telling age-appropriate jokes, play- least they don’t put them in the ing act to make his way around the What really makes this book are I am sorry to hear that you and come more interested in vegetables ing word games, making up stories, path of danger. airship; the Hindenburg was lined with the illustrations by David Geister. your 9-year-old are facing the same and other healthy options: etc.) while eating usually makes a big The book tells the story of narrow wooden paths that connected With a palette that evokes many dilemma as many other families. It There are an increasing number difference. It can also help if you ar- 14-year-old Werner Franz, who, the stern to the bow. One of the paths emotions in a few pages, Geister’s sounds like you are already doing well of cookbooks to help parents incor- range food in humorous shapes that in 1937, was the youngest crew led to a small window that gave Wer- artwork truly sets the tone. confronting the challenge by provid- porate vegetables and healthy foods spark interest. A broccoli forest, car- member on the German air- ner a bird’s-eye view of the Atlantic While it’s generally the size and ing regular nutritious food at home. into home-cooked recipes. They rot log cabin, or banana raisin whole ship the Hindenburg, one of Ocean, and, on May 6, 1937, an up-high shape of a preschooler’s picture Why do children love fast food? recommend using stocks or incor- grain “face” pancakes are some com- the most famous airships in look at New York City as the Hinden- book, I think “Surviving the Hinden- The answer isn’t that complicated porating finely chopped vegetables mon examples. history. Through Werner’s burg tried to dock in New Jersey. burg” is better suited for children — salt, sugar, and oil can taste good into breads or popular main course Severely restricting junk foods can memories, readers will learn It was stormy that day, but people ages 7 to 12. If you’ve got a budding and provide sudden bursts of en- dishes. result in children feeling deprived of the inner workings of the air- crowded the beaches of New Jersey to historian in the house, enjoying this ergy. The peer pressure that you It can also be useful to offer what “everyone else” is having, and ship and the tragedy that un- watch the mighty Hindenburg’s land- book won’t be a chore. mentioned, combined with plenty of healthy snacks throughout the can increase cravings and secrecy, folded during the zeppelin’s ing. Werner wished he could watch it, “Surviving the Hindenburg” by Larry effective advertising, help make fast day, rather than waiting until meal- especially as they get older. As you final voyage. too, but he had dishes to wash. Verstraete [32 pages, Sleeping Bear food irresistible. time. Slicing fruits and vegetables juggle the requests for junk, it can be Werner was very excited to be a And then, there was a thump. Press, 2012, $16.95] is recommended for Here are a few ideas to keep in and placing them attractively at a helpful to remember that children’s cabin boy on the Hindenburg, which, Dishes scattered and broke, and children ages 7 to 12. child’s eye level in the refrigerator eating habits frequently change over at 13 stories high and more than Werner ran to a wooden pathway as Terri Schlichenmeyer has been read- Sharon C. Peters is a mother and director of Parents Helping Parents, or on plates near play areas can time. I have found that young ones 800 feet long, was like a big, float- he discovered that the Hindenburg ing since she was 3 years old, and 669 President St., Brooklyn (718) 638-9444, www.PHPonline.org. help healthy nibbling become more exposed to adults with quality diets, ing hotel surrounded by fabric cells was on fire! she never goes anywhere without a If you have a question about a challenge in your life (no issue is too big common. Keeping a tasty dipping like the ones you are modeling in filled with highly flammable hydro- Based on Werner’s own account book. She lives on a hill with two dogs or too small) e-mail it to Dear Sharon at [email protected]. sauce nearby can make these kinds your home, eventually develop into gen. As the youngest crew member, and other research about this tragic and 12,000 books. of snacks even more appealing. nutritious eaters as well.

42 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 BOOKS PARENTINGParenting All about our earth omeday, your children are start with the let- My son eats nothing going to inherit the earth. And ter C. E stands S there is so much to learn be- for earthquakes, fore it becomes theirs. “B is for Blue and V is for vol- Planet,” by Ruth Strother, is just the cano. but awful junk food tool to learn all about our Earth. If you’ve got “B is for Blue Planet” teaches chil- a young reader dren all about the planet by taking in your house, Involving children in the selec- them through the alphabet to intro- you probably tion and preparation of food can duce them to new words, such as A, have at least help them feel more engaged and THE BOOK for amber, the gooey material that one shelf that’s PARENTS interested in veggies and other nu- oozed from trees when dinosaurs filled with books that have been tific explanations tritious foods, and less resistant to WORM walked the earth, and trapped bugs, outgrown. The nice thing about this meant for older kids — or for your- HELPING adult opinions about healthy eating. TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER flowers, and leaves, and then hard- book is that it grows with your child: self, if you need help answering the I often suggest that children accom- ened, rock-like. And while your child read it with a 4 year old, then keep it questions of a curious child. PARENTS pany their parents to a grocery store is learning about old, hard rocks, for the 12 year old she’ll be someday, For preschoolers to middleschool- SHARON C. PETERS, MA and be allowed to choose one or two she’ll also learn about I, for igneous because “B is for Blue Planet” really ers, “B is for Blue Planet” will prove things that they would like. (This rock, which was on the earth before is two books in one. that Earth Day — April 22 — isn’t simple gesture can lessen the in- the dinosaurs that roamed the earth Strother offers a quick, easy-to-un- the only time to be green. For them, evitable unproductive power battles during J, the Jurassic period. derstand poem for younger children, this book is a good lesson and a that can surface while buying food.) Of course, B is for blue planet, each accompanied by a colorful il- great gift. It can also be helpful for parents another name for the earth, because lustration from artist Bob Marstall. “B is for Blue Planet,” by Ruth Strother to ask children to pick recipes from much of it is covered with water You’ll notice, though, that on the [40 pages, Sleeping Bear Press, 2011, a colorful and interesting cookbook and looks blue from space. In all outer half of each letter-page are $16.95] is recommended for children in and make a meal. If a child has that water are coral reefs, which longer, more thorough, more scien- preschool through middleschool. shopped for carrots, broccoli, and spinach; helped chop, clean, or cook the vegetables; and then arranged the food creatively on a plate, it can A real account of a truly horrible disaster be more interesting to eat. A lighthearted attitude in relation our kids complain about their Werner loved working on this great event for which the anniversary to food can also help. Some parents I chores. Every morning, they big ship in the sky, and he was finally looms, “Surviving the Hindenburg” Dear Sharon, know have set up a “play restaurant,” Y have to make their beds and going to see America! is an interesting tale enhanced by Do you have any advice for parents who have children who will not where parents are customers, and straighten up. They help wash the As a cabin boy, his many duties historical information in the front and eat vegetables? I am really concerned about this. My son seems to children serve and prepare a healthy dishes, clean the house, and included making the beds, setting the back pages, which gives young read- only have a palate for junk. He is 9 years old and, although our home menu. Young ones often take pride in pitch in with yard work. tables, washing dishes, and cleaning ers an idea of the magnitude of this di- provides quality nutritional food, he has developed a love of fast food their preparations and can develop They think they’ve got it uniforms. Every day, when he was saster. In telling this story, Verstraete items that he gets when he’s with his friends. It seems other parents a positive relationship to good qual- rough. But as they’ll see in the done with his work, he would visit the gives kids someone to identify with: aren’t as interested in good eating as we are. ity food. new book, “Surviving the Hin- mechanics who manned the engines a boy like them who is witness to an Exchanging rebukes and worry for denburg” by Larry Verstraete, or the riggers who worked at the top event that shocked Americans, and humor and child-centered activity their chores are nothing. At of the airship. It was a bit of a balanc- the Germans who made the zeppelin. Dear Parent, mind that might help your son be- (telling age-appropriate jokes, play- least they don’t put them in the ing act to make his way around the What really makes this book are I am sorry to hear that you and come more interested in vegetables ing word games, making up stories, path of danger. airship; the Hindenburg was lined with the illustrations by David Geister. your 9-year-old are facing the same and other healthy options: etc.) while eating usually makes a big The book tells the story of narrow wooden paths that connected With a palette that evokes many dilemma as many other families. It There are an increasing number difference. It can also help if you ar- 14-year-old Werner Franz, who, the stern to the bow. One of the paths emotions in a few pages, Geister’s sounds like you are already doing well of cookbooks to help parents incor- range food in humorous shapes that in 1937, was the youngest crew led to a small window that gave Wer- artwork truly sets the tone. confronting the challenge by provid- porate vegetables and healthy foods spark interest. A broccoli forest, car- member on the German air- ner a bird’s-eye view of the Atlantic While it’s generally the size and ing regular nutritious food at home. into home-cooked recipes. They rot log cabin, or banana raisin whole ship the Hindenburg, one of Ocean, and, on May 6, 1937, an up-high shape of a preschooler’s picture Why do children love fast food? recommend using stocks or incor- grain “face” pancakes are some com- the most famous airships in look at New York City as the Hinden- book, I think “Surviving the Hinden- The answer isn’t that complicated porating finely chopped vegetables mon examples. history. Through Werner’s burg tried to dock in New Jersey. burg” is better suited for children — salt, sugar, and oil can taste good into breads or popular main course Severely restricting junk foods can memories, readers will learn It was stormy that day, but people ages 7 to 12. If you’ve got a budding and provide sudden bursts of en- dishes. result in children feeling deprived of the inner workings of the air- crowded the beaches of New Jersey to historian in the house, enjoying this ergy. The peer pressure that you It can also be useful to offer what “everyone else” is having, and ship and the tragedy that un- watch the mighty Hindenburg’s land- book won’t be a chore. mentioned, combined with plenty of healthy snacks throughout the can increase cravings and secrecy, folded during the zeppelin’s ing. Werner wished he could watch it, “Surviving the Hindenburg” by Larry effective advertising, help make fast day, rather than waiting until meal- especially as they get older. As you final voyage. too, but he had dishes to wash. Verstraete [32 pages, Sleeping Bear food irresistible. time. Slicing fruits and vegetables juggle the requests for junk, it can be Werner was very excited to be a And then, there was a thump. Press, 2012, $16.95] is recommended for Here are a few ideas to keep in and placing them attractively at a helpful to remember that children’s cabin boy on the Hindenburg, which, Dishes scattered and broke, and children ages 7 to 12. child’s eye level in the refrigerator eating habits frequently change over at 13 stories high and more than Werner ran to a wooden pathway as Terri Schlichenmeyer has been read- Sharon C. Peters is a mother and director of Parents Helping Parents, or on plates near play areas can time. I have found that young ones 800 feet long, was like a big, float- he discovered that the Hindenburg ing since she was 3 years old, and 669 President St., Brooklyn (718) 638-9444, www.PHPonline.org. help healthy nibbling become more exposed to adults with quality diets, ing hotel surrounded by fabric cells was on fire! she never goes anywhere without a If you have a question about a challenge in your life (no issue is too big common. Keeping a tasty dipping like the ones you are modeling in filled with highly flammable hydro- Based on Werner’s own account book. She lives on a hill with two dogs or too small) e-mail it to Dear Sharon at [email protected]. sauce nearby can make these kinds your home, eventually develop into gen. As the youngest crew member, and other research about this tragic and 12,000 books. of snacks even more appealing. nutritious eaters as well.

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Long-running “Little Miss Muffet’s Monster Submit a listing Sitting Service”: The Swedish Cot- Going Places is dedicated to tage Marionette Theatre, West Dr. at bringing our readers the most 79th Street Transverse; (212) 988-9093; comprehensive events calendar cityparksfoundation.org/swedishcot- in your area. But to do so, we tage.html; Tuesdays – Fridays, 10:30 am need your help! and noon, Saturdays and Sundays, 1 All you have to do is send pm, Now – Sun, April 8; $8 ($5 children your listing request to calendar@ under 12). cnglocal.com — and we’ll take care of the rest. Please e-mail Based on the nursery rhyme, “Little requests more than three weeks Miss Muffet”, this version tells the story prior to the event to ensure we of Molly Muffet, the descendent of the have enough time to get it in. original Miss Muffet. Run time is approx- And best of all, it’s FREE! imately 50 minutes and is suitable for children 3-9. Wild Ocean: New York Hall of Sci- 982-6983; www.barnesandnoble.com; ence, 47-01 111th St., at Avenue of Sci- Tuesday, April 3, 10:30 am; Saturday, ence; (718) 699-0005 X353; www.ny- April 7, 10:30 am; Tuesday, April 10, science.org; Fridays, 3:30 pm, Saturdays 10:30 am; Saturday, April 14, 10:30 am; and Sundays, 1:30 and 3:30 pm, Now – Tuesday, April 17, 10:30 am; Saturday, Sat, March 31; $6, ($5 children, students April 21, 10:30 am; Tuesday, April 24, and seniors, plus museum admission). 10:30 am; Friday, April 27, 10:30 am; Science themed 3-D show about the Saturday, April 28, 10:30 am; Tuesday, ocean and ecosystem. The movie is ap- May 1, 10:30 am; Saturday, May 5, proximately 30 minutes long and is suit- 10:30 am; Tuesday, May 8, 10:30 am; able for children 6 years and older. Happy 40th, Grandpa! Free. Children listen to a different story “Urban Odyssey”: La Mama, 66 randpa, the Staten Island sion. Tickets for Breakfast with each week. E. Fourth St. (212) 475-7710; www. Zoo’s spider monkey, the Beasts on May 6 are $17 and Tree tots and peppers: Greenbelt lamama.org; Thursdays – Saturdays, is celebrating his 40th $15 for members. The breakfast is 7:30 pm, Sundays, 2:30 pm, Now – Sun, G Nature Center, 700 Rockland Ave. at birthday at a party on April 14, suitable for children 5 and older April 8; $25 ($20 students and seniors). Brielle Avenue; (718) 351-3450; www. The world premier by Loco7 Dance and you are all invited. Come visit (sorry, no younger siblings al- nycgovparks.com; Wednesdays, 11 Puppet Theater. Suitable for children 12 the zoo, and help him blow out lowed). Pre-registration required. –11:30 am, Wed, April 4 – Wed, June 6; and older only. the candles on his special birth- Lastly, children 6 and older $4 ($6 non-members) per event. day cake from 1:30–3:30 pm. can wrangle an angler lesson and For children 2-4 years old. Hands on Cartoon exhibit: New York Hall of If birthday parties are not your learn the ups and downs of fish- activities, finger plays, games and sto- Science, 47-01 111th St., at Avenue of ries. Registration required. Science; (718) 699-0005 X353; www. thing, then you can enjoy Break- ing, for free — with paid admis- nyscience.org; Weekdays, 9:30 am–5 fast with the Beasts, from 8:30 to sion. Must be accompanied by After school club: Historic Richmond pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am–6 10:30 am, or go fishing, from 11 an adult. Town, Clarke Ave. at Gilbert Street; pm, $11 ($8 children 2-17, college stu- am to 1 pm, on May 6. The choice Staten Island Zoo [614 Broadway (718) 351-1611 X 281; reservations@ dents and seniors. is yours. at Martling Avenue, (718) 422-3174] historicrichmondtown.org; www.ny- A 6,000 square exhibit features char- Admission to Grandpa’s birth- For more info, visit www.statenis- cgovparks.org. Wednesdays, 3:30 pm, Now – Wed, June 27; free (cost of book acters from the Cartoon Network, in- day is free with general admis- landzoo.org. cluding larger than life graphics, anima- additional). tion from concept to finished product, Students in grades four through seven read and discuss selected books. storyboarding, character design and Volunteers from Stuyvesant High Up4Art: Staten Island Children’s Mu- drawing. School help students Pre-K through third seum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at Tysen Story museum: Historic Richmond Math tutoring: Great Kills Library, grade with math and english studies. Street; (718) 273-2060; statenislandkids. Town, 441 Clarke Ave. at Tysen Court; 56 Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) org; Sunday, April 1, 1 pm; Saturday, (718) 351-1611; www.historicrichmond- “The Amazing Max and the Box 984-6670; www.nypl.org; Wednesday, April 7, 1 pm; Saturday, April 14, 1 pm; town.org; Thursdays, 11:30 am–12:30 of Interesting Things”: The MMAC March 28, 3:30 pm; Saturday, March 31, Sunday, April 15, 1 pm; Saturday, April pm and 2:30–3:30 pm, Now – Thurs, Theater, 248 W. 60th St. between Am- 12 pm; Free. 21, 1 pm; Sunday, April 22, 1 pm; Satur- June 28; $3 (Adults free). sterdam and West End avenues; (212) day, April 28, 1 pm; Sunday, April 29, 1 Pre-schoolers listen to stories, do For children in Pre-K through eighth 239-6200; www.telecharge.com; Sat- pm; Free with museum admission. crafts, dance and sing. grade. urdays, 4:30 pm, Now – Sat, June 30; Children create mosaics using glass $29.50 ($49.50 VIP seating). Composter certificate course: Homework help: New Dorp Library, tiles. 309 New Dorp Ln at Clawson Street; The magic show with a mind of its Snug Harbor Cultural Center, 1000 (718) 351-2977; www.nypl.org; Satur- own. Magician Max Darwin makes ob- Storytime: Barnes & Noble, 2245 Richmond Ter. between Snug Harbor days, 2–4 pm, Now – Sat, April 28; Free. jects appear out of thin air. Richmond Ave. at Travis Avenue; (718) Continued on page 46 April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 45 Continued from page 45 Park, 200 Nevada Ave. at Rockland Av- Mon, April 2 “The Hundred Dresses”: Enrich- Road and Tysen Street; (718) 448-2500; enue; (718) 351-3450; www.nycgov- ment Through the Arts, 11 Borman Ave. www.nyc.gov/wasteless/compostpro- parks.org; 10 am–2 pm; $5 per scout to “Ramona Quimby”: Tottenville High at Rockland Avenue; (718) 982-5678; 10 jet; Thursday, April 12, 6 pm; Thursday, cover refreshments. School, 100 Luten Ave. off of Amboy and 11:30 am; $7. April 19, 6 pm; Thursday, April 26, 6 Earn community service while learn- Road; (718) 981-7288; wearesicta@aol. Show about bullying. pm; Thursday, May 3, 6 pm; Thursday, ing life skills. Tools and gloves provided. com; www.statenislandchildrenstheatre. Math tutoring: Great Kills Library, May 10, 6 pm; $40. Registration required. com; 10 and 11:30 am; $8. 56 Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) The course is designed to promote The beloved character based on the Toddler Time: Central Park Zoo, 830 984-6670; www.nypl.org; 3:30 – 6 pm; the practice of composting in homes, Beverly Cleary comes to the stage. Suit- Fifth Ave at E. 65th Street; (212) 439- Free. schools and community sites. The class able for children in grades kindergarten 6583; www.centralparkzoo.com/pro- For children in Pre-K through eighth offers seven Thursdays and field trips. through fifth. grams; 10:30–11:30 am; $25 ($30 non- grade. Registration by March 1 required. (In members). “Once Upon a Time”: Enrichment Building P.) Through the Arts, 11 Borman Ave. at Picture-book time: New Dorp Li- For 2 and 3 year olds. Live animals, brary, 309 New Dorp Ln at Clawson “Little Miss Muffet’s Monster Rockland Avenue; (718) 982-5678; 10 movement, and musical activities, plus Street; (718) 351-2977; www.nypl.org; Sitting Service”: The Swedish Cot- and 11:30 am; $7. a craft. 4 pm; Free. tage Marionette Theatre, West Dr. at Collection of classic tales. Scavenger Hunt: Blue Heron Nature For children three and up. Finger play, 79th Street Transverse; (212) 988-9093; Color weaving: Children’s Museum Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between Am- action rhymes and coloring. cityparksfoundation.org/swedishcot- of the Arts, 103 Charlton St. at Hudson boy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) tage.html; Mondays, Tuesdays, Thurs- Street; (212) 274-0986; rachel@rra- 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 11 days and Fridays, 10:30 am and noon, [email protected]; www.cmany.org; Thurs, April 5 Wednesdays, 10:30 am, noon and 2:30 am; Free. Noon; Free with museum admission ($6 Toddler Time: 10:30–11:30 am. Cen- pm, beginning Sat, April 14; $8 ($5 chil- Children search for natural treasures. Free for members). tral Park Zoo. See Saturday, March 31. dren under 12). All supplies provided. Discover how colors interact as you Based on the nursery rhyme, “Little Egg-Stravaganza: Staten Island Chil- create your own weaving on cardboard Easter fest: Greenbelt Nature Center, Miss Muffet”, this version tells the story dren’s Museum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at looms. 700 Rockland Ave. at Brielle Avenue; of Molly Muffet, the descendent of the (718) 351-3450; www.nycgovparks. Tysen Street; (718) 273-2060; statenis- Kidz Cook: Staten Island Children’s original Miss Muffet. Run time is approx- landkids.org; Noon–4 pm; Free. com; 3–5:30 pm; Free. imately 50 minutes and is suitable for Museum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at Tysen Celebrate the incredible egg. Egg hunt, face painting, Easter children 3-9. Street; (718) 273-2060; statenislandkids. crafts and games. Then take a picture Prom Dress collection: South Ox- org; 2, 3 and 4 pm; Free with museum with Peter Cotton Tail, bring your own Fri, March 30 ford Theatre, 138 S. Oxford St. lead- admission ($6 Free for members). camera. ingladies.org; 6:30–10:30 pm; Free. Try a five-alarm recipe from real Story time: Great Kills Library, 56 Gif- LACE is hosting the second annual firefighters. Fri, April 6 fords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) 984- collection for dresses for high school- Teen lounge: Great Kills Library, 56 6670; www.nypl.org; 11 am; Free. ers to be used as graduation and prom Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) Cool School: Staten Island Children’s For pre-schoolers ages three to dresses. Also included is shoes, acces- 984-6670; www.nypl.org; 3:30 pm; Museum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at Tysen five with caregivers. Pre-registration sories and for step up students in pre- Free. Street; (718) 273-2060; statenislandkids. required. school. For ages 12 to 18. org; 10 am–5pm; Free. Sponsored by MCU, the museum is Kidz Cook: Staten Island Children’s open all day for fun events. Museum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at Tysen Sun, April 1 Tues, April 3 Street; (718) 273-2060; statenislandkids. Smokehouse: Staten Island Children’s org; 2, 3 and 4 pm; Free with museum Buddhist Mandalas: Children’s Mu- “Ramona Quimby”: Tottenville High Museum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at Tysen admission ($6 Free for members). seum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St. at School, 100 Luten Ave. off of Amboy Street; (718) 273-2060; statenislandkids. Hudson Street; (212) 274-0986; rachel@ Children taste the goodness of a ba- Road; (718) 981-7288; wearesicta@aol. org; Noon–3 pm; Free. [email protected]; www.cmany.org; nana berry smoothie, full of Vitamin D, com; www.statenislandchildrenstheatre. Learn what its like to be a NYC 10 am; Free with museum admission ($6 and cool milky deliciousness. com; 10 and 11:30 am; $8. Firefighter in a real-life sized burning Free for members). The beloved character based on the building. Fun Fridays: Great Kills Library, 56 Use colored sand over a glue covered Beverly Cleary comes to the stage. Suit- Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) surface to create designs and symbols. able for children in grades Kindergarten Flipping pages: 3:30 pm. Alice Aus- 984-6670; www.nypl.org; 3:30 PM; through fifth. Presented by the Staten Is- ten House. See Friday, March 30. Free. Gustafer Yellowgold’s Year in land Children’s Theatre Association. Fun Fridays: Great Kills Library, 56 Children 3 and up hear stories, sing the Day: 92YTribeca, 200 Hudson “Once Upon a Time”: 10 and 11:30 Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) songs, and do a fun craft. St. at Vestry Street; (212) 601-1000; www.92y.org/92ytribeca; 11 am; $15 am. Enrichment Through the Arts. See 984-6670; www.nypl.org; 3:30 pm; Flipping pages: Alice Austen House, (children under 2 free). Monday, April 2. Free. 2 Hylan Blvd. at Bay Street; (718) 816- The little guy from the Sun returns to Children 3 and up hear stories, sing 4506; aliceausten.org; 3:30 pm; Free. Toddler Time: Central Park Zoo, 830 songs, and do a fun craft. NYC with his national tour with an out- Fifth Ave at E. 65th Street; (212) 439- Children 4-8 years old listen to stories of-this world multimedia show. 6583; www.centralparkzoo.com/pro- Math gaming: Great Kills Library, 56 and make an art project. Reservations grams; 10:30–11:30 am; $25 ($30 non- Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) required. Open Auditions: Alvin Ailey Studios, 405 W. 55th St. at Ninth Avenue; info@ members). 984-6670; www.nypl.org; 3:30 pm; Fantastic Fridays: Jewish Com- acballet.org; www.acballet.org; 11 am; Homey Habitats - for 2 and 3 year old Free. munity Center of Staten Island, 1466 Free. children. Live animals, movement and Chess and Tangrams for children 10 Manor Rd. between Rockland and Bri- Attention all dancers - for the musical activities plus a craft. and older. elle avenues; (718) 475-5200; www. 2012/2013 season For Atlantic City sijcc.org; 4–5 pm; $5. Ballet. Wed, April 4 Sat, April 7 For parents and children 5 and older. Sing songs, hear stories, dance and History of Easter: Blue Heron Na- Information session: NYC Dept. Easter Egg hunt: Historic Richmond make a fun craft. ture Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between of Education, 715 Ocean Terrace Bldg. Town, 441 Clarke Ave. at Tysen Court; Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) A; (212) 374-2490; 9:30 –11:30 am and (718) 351-1611; www.historicrichmond- Sat, March 31 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 6–8 pm; Free. town.org; 10 am–4 pm; $10 ($5 adults; pm; Free. Understanding Special Ed Reform and SIHS $9; children free). Girl Scout Career day: High Rock Lecture and discussion. IEP Development. Bring an egg carton to decorate in the 46 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 Going Places Victorian style, and then meet the Eas- Frog watch USA: High Rock Park, ter Bunny as you hunt for eggs. Refresh- 200 Nevada Ave. at Rockland Avenue; ments served. Registration and pre-paid (718) 351-3450; www.nygovparks.org; in advance. 6 pm; Free. Become a citizen scientist and dis- Arts and crafts: Blue Heron Nature cover how you can help frogs. Suitable Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between Am- for children 8 and older. Registration re- boy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) quired. Bring a headlamp or flashlight 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 11 and wear suitable clothing for a hike am; Free. through the park. Make eco friendly projects. Kids and Kritters: Blue Heron Na- Thurs, April 12 ture Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) Sow a seed: Wolf’s Pond Park, Cor- 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 11 nelia Ave. at Chester Avenue; (212) 360- am–12:30 pm; Free. 1463; www.nycgovparks.org; 10 am–2 Children 5-7 learn about nature, hear pm; Free. stories, play indoor games and then Help the rangers plant seeds that will make a cool craft. grow into plants that will help control erosion, reduce the threat of invasives Krafty Kids: Blue Heron Nature Cen- and replenish habitat for animals and ter, 222 Poillon Ave. between Amboy insects. Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) 967- 3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1–2 pm; Animal babies: High Rock Park, 200 Free. Nevada Ave. at Rockland Avenue; (718) Children 4-10 with a caregiver explore 351-3450; www.nycgoparks.org; 11 the center and make a craft. Pre-regis- Fun with Phineas & Ferb am–noon; Free. tration is requested. Children 3-7, accompanied by an ecret Agent P, AKA Perry and awesome that even Candace adult, hear a story and walk around Sun, April 8 the Platypus, is on a mis- can’t help but join in the hijinks. Loosestrife Swamp to discover all the lit- S sion: he must foil the evil It’s the ultimate end of summer tle ones in the park. Hieroglyphs: Children’s Museum of Dr. Doofenshmirtz’s plan to save vacation, so come seize the day, “Little Miss Muffet’s Monster the Arts, 103 Charlton St. at Hudson the day in “Phineas and Ferb: ’cause Phineas and Ferb are Sitting Service”: 11 am and 1 pm. Street; (212) 274-0986; rachel@rrapo- The Best Live Tour Ever” at the gonna do it all. The Swedish Cottage Marionette The- [email protected]; www.cmany.org; 10 atre. See Monday, April 9. am; Free with museum admission ($6 St. George Theater on April 17 “Phineas and Ferb: The Best Live Free for members). and 18. Tour Ever” at the St. George Theater, Toddler story time: Great Kills Li- Using the alphabet of ancient Egyp- Musical madness and tons of [35 Hyatt St. in St. George, (718) 442- brary, 56 Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; tians create your own secret messages,. fun abound when the cartoon 2900] April 17 and 18 at 7 pm. Tick- (718) 984-6670; www.nypl.org; 11 am; characters come to life on the big ets are $22.50–$82.50. For more info, Free. Birding: Blue Heron Nature Center, Children one and 1 1/2 to 3 years old 222 Poillon Ave. between Amboy Road stage. The escapade is so huge visit www.stgeorgetheatre.com. with caregivers hear a story with fin- and Hylan Boulevard; (718) 967-3542; ger play and activities. Pre-registration www.nycgovparks.org; 1 pm; Free. required. Bring your own binoculars. Use the museum’s templates to create pm; $25. your own visual story. Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta set in Rock safari: Blue Heron Nature Cen- Mon, April 9 Japan in the fictional town of Titipu. ter, 222 Poillon Ave. between Amboy Knot tying: Blue Heron Nature Cen- Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) 967- ter, 222 Poillon Ave. between Amboy “Little Miss Muffet’s Monster 3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 pm; Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) 967- Wed, April 11 Sitting Service”: The Swedish Cot- Free. 3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 pm; tage Marionette Theatre, West Dr. at Story time: New Dorp Library, 309 Free. Take a hike through the park. 79th Street Transverse; (212) 988-9093; New Dorp Ln at Clawson Street; (718) Children learn how to make knots. cityparksfoundation.org/swedishcot- 351-2977; www.nypl.org; 11 am; Free. Fri, April 13 tage.html; 11 am and 1 pm; $8 ($5 chil- Teen lounge: 3:30 pm. Great Kills Li- For preschoolers two and one-half to dren under 12). brary. See Monday, April 2. five years old with caregiver. Pre-regis- Cool School: Staten Island Children’s Based on the nursery rhyme, “Little tration required. Museum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at Tysen Miss Muffet”, this version tells the story Street; (718) 273-2060; statenislandkids. Tues, April 10 “Little Miss Muffet’s Monster org; 10 am–5pm; Free. of Molly Muffet, the descendent of the Sitting Service”: 11 am, 1 and 2:30 Sponsored by MCU, the museum is original Miss Muffet. Run time is approx- “Little Miss Muffet’s Monster pm. The Swedish Cottage Marionette open all day for fun events. imately 50 minutes and is suitable for Sitting Service”: 11 am and 1 pm. Theatre. See Monday, April 9. children 3-9. The Swedish Cottage Marionette The- Toddler rhyme-time: New Dorp atre. See Monday, April 9. Incredible insects: Blue Heron Na- Baby and me: Great Kills Library, 56 Library, 309 New Dorp Ln at Clawson ture Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) Street; (718) 351-2977; www.nypl.org; Nature crafts: Blue Heron Nature Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) 984-6670; www.nypl.org; 11 am; Free. 10:30 am; Free. Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between Am- 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 Infants from birth through one and boy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) pm; Free. For children 13 through 30 months 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 and a caregiver, including interac- one-half with their caregivers. Children learn all about creepy crawly pm; Free. tive program of simple books, songs Comic books: Children’s Museum of bugs. Children create unique one-of-a-kind and gentle movement. Pre-registration the Arts, 103 Charlton St. at Hudson projects using natural materials. Math tutoring: 3:30–6 pm. Great required. Street; (212) 274-0986; rachel@rra- Kills Library. See Wednesday, April 4. [email protected]; www.cmany.org; “The Mikado”: Carnegie Hall, 881 Art rocks: High Rock Park, 200 Ne- Noon; Free with museum admission ($6 Seventh Ave. at W. 57th Street; (212) Picture-book time: 4 pm. New Dorp vada Ave. at Rockland Avenue; (718) Free for members). 247-7800; www.carnegiehall.org; 6:30 Library. See Wednesday, April 4. Continued on page 48 April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 47 Continued from page 47 Sun, April 15 Phineas and Ferb: 7 pm. St. George mission ($6 Free for members). 351-3450; www.nycgovparks.org; 11 Theatre. See Tuesday, April 17. Meet real police men from the depart- am–noon; $8 ($6 Greenbelt members). Little Miss Ann: 92Y Tribeca, 200 ment, sit in a patrol car and earn your Hudson St. at Vestry Street; (212) 601- Discover the rock and let your imagi- own shield after you learn to fingerprint. 1000; www.92ytribeca.org/byok; 11 Fri, April 20 nation go. Suitable for children 8 and am; $15 (Free for children under 2). Doodlebug Fun: Blue Heron Nature Earth Day celebration: Tompkins- older. Registration and pre-payment ville Park, Bay St. at Victory Blvd. (718) required. The performer shares her quirky up- Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between Am- beat 1960’s styled original children’s boy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) 887-6682; [email protected]; “Little Miss Muffet’s Monster music with special guest Brooklyn’s own 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 Noon–8 pm; Free. Sitting Service”: 11 am and 1 pm. Suzi Shelton. pm; $1 per session. See a giant dragon puppet show, The Swedish Cottage Marionette The- Kathleen Hagen helps little ones kick learn about composting, enjoy cooking atre. See Monday, April 9. Nature workshop: Blue Heron Na- demonstrations, a recycling relay race; ture Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between off the weekend with song, music and storytelling. For children 18 months to stop n’ swap and so much more. There Story time: Great Kills Library, 56 Gif- Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) four years. Pre-registration required. Ses- will also be live music, art exhibits, craft fords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) 984- 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 sion 1. vendors, readings, a doggie dragon con- 6670; www.nypl.org; 11 am; Free. pm; Free. test and parade. Wheelchair accessible - For pre-schoolers ages three to Discover the incredible insects that in- Kidz Cook: Staten Island Children’s suitable for all ages. habit the preserve. Museum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at Tysen five with caregivers. Pre-registration Math tutoring: Noon– 3 pm. Great required. Street; (718) 273-2060; statenislandkids. org; 2, 3 and 4 pm; Free with museum Kills Library. See Wednesday, April 4. Crafting: Blue Heron Nature Center, Mon, April 16 admission ($6 Free for members). Krafty Kids: 1–2 pm. Blue Heron Na- 222 Poillon Ave. between Amboy Road Nature hike: Blue Heron Nature Cen- Try a five-alarm recipe from real ture Center. See Saturday, April 7. and Hylan Boulevard; (718) 967-3542; ter, 222 Poillon Ave. between Amboy firefighters. www.nycgovparks.org; 1 pm; Free. Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) 967- Ballet Hispanico: The Joyce Theater, Learn how to tie a simple knot - suit- 3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 pm; Fun Fridays: 3:30 pm. Great Kills Li- 175 Eighth Ave. at 19th Street; (212) 242- able for boy scouts. Free. brary. See Friday, April 6. 0800; www.joyce.org; 2 pm; $10-$59. The world premier of Espiritu Vivo. Kidz Cook: Staten Island Children’s Discover the different types of rocks Math gaming: 3:30 pm. Great Kills Museum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at Tysen found in the park. Library. See Friday, April 6. An Evening with Jerry Stiller: Street; (718) 273-2060; statenislandkids. Teen lounge: 3:30 pm. Great Kills Li- Art Slam: Children’s Museum of the College of Staten Island, 2800 Victory org; 2, 3 and 4 pm; Free with museum brary. See Monday, April 2. Arts, 103 Charlton St. at Hudson Street; Blvd. near Christopher Lane; (718) 982- admission ($6 Free for members). (212) 274-0986; rachel@rrapoport@ 2787 (ARTS); www.cfashows.com; 8 pm; $50, $55, $60. Try a five-alarm recipe from real Tues, April 17 cmany.org; www.cmany.org; 6:30–9 firefighters. pm; Free. A casual conversation with the comic “The Three Little Pigs”: Enrichment performer. Wii gaming: Great Kills Library, 56 Children in seventh to ninth grade Through the Arts, 11 Borman Ave. at Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) party with pizza, music and art. RSVP Rockland Avenue; (718) 982-5678; 10 required. Sun, April 22 984-6670; www.nypl.org; 3:30 pm; and 11:30 am; $7. Free. The classic fairy tale. Photo day: Central Park Zoo, 830 For children 12-18 years old. Sat, April 21 Fifth Ave at E. 65th Street; (212) 439- Toddler Time: Central Park Zoo, 830 Zoo help: Central Park Zoo, 830 Fifth 6583; www.centralparkzoo.com/pro- Fun Fridays: 3:30 pm. Great Kills Li- Fifth Ave at E. 65th Street; (212) 439- grams; 10–11:30 am; $45 ($50 non- brary. See Friday, April 6. Ave at E. 65th Street; (212) 439-6583; 6583; www.centralparkzoo.com/pro- www.centralparkzoo.com/programs; members). Classical concert: College of Staten grams; 10:30–11:30 am; $25 ($30 non- 9–10:30 am; $50 ($60 non-members) Children 6-18 years old team up with Island, 2800 Victory Blvd. near Chris- members). each session $170 ($215 non-members) parents and photograph zoo animals in topher Lane; (718) 982-2787 (ARTS); Winged Wonders- for 2 and 3 year four sessions. celebration of Earth Day. Wildlife pho- www.cfashows.com; 7:30 pm; $20. old children. Live animals, movement Children 8-10 years old help the ani- tographer Judith Wolfe, takes guests on Violinist Jennifer Koh performs selec- and musical activities plus a craft. mal keepers and study the behaviors of a journey through the zoo to capture the adventure. Digital camera required. tions of classic and new composers. Art workshop: Blue Heron Nature animals. Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between Am- Kinder Kritters: Central Park Zoo, Children’s concert: 92Y Tribeca, 200 Sat, April 14 boy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) 830 Fifth Ave at E. 65th Street; (212) Hudson St. at Vestry Street; (212) 601- 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 439-6583; www.centralparkzoo.com/ 1000; www.92ytribeca.org/byok; 11 Toddler Time: 10:30–11:30 am. Cen- pm; Free. programs; 10–11 am; $25 ($30 non- am; $15 (Free for children under 2). tral Park Zoo. See Tuesday, April 3. Learn to draw what is in nature. members). Performing sisters Nerissa and Katryna Nields sing folk songs. Math tutoring: Noon–3 pm. Great Movie night: Great Kills Library, 56 Color their world - for 4 and 5 year Kills Library. See Wednesday, April 4. Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) old children. Instructors lead the children Earth day: Blue Heron Nature Center, 984-6670; www.nypl.org; 5 pm; Free. through songs, dances and games, as 222 Poillon Ave. between Amboy Road Nature crafts: Blue Heron Nature well as creative animal themed crafts. Join in for a film and snacks. and Hylan Boulevard; (718) 967-3542; Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between Am- www.nycgovparks.org; 1 pm; Free. Body buildings: Skyscraper Museum, boy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) Phineas and Ferb: St. George The- 39 Battery Place; (212) 968-1961; www. Lecture and discussion. 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 atre, 35 Hyatt St. between St. Mark’s skyscraper.org; 10:15 am–noon; Free pm; Free. Place and Central Avenue; (718) 442- Pinhole camera workshop: Alice with museum admission. Children use materials found outside. 2900; www.stgeorgetheatre.com; 7 Austen House, Hyland blvd. at Maryland pm; $22.50-$82.50. Children work together to create a Avenue; (718) 816-4506; aliceausten- The Spider Monkey’s Birthday: city skyline using poster paper. [email protected]; www.nycgovparks.org; Join the two on the best live tour ever. Staten Island Zoo, 614 Broadway at 1–5 pm; $5. Kids and Kritters: 11 am–12:30 pm. Martling Avenue; (718) 422-3174; www. Celebrate Earth Day and take photos statenislandzoo.org; 1:30–3:30 pm; Free Wed, April 18 Blue Heron Nature Center. See Saturday, April 7. with a camera constructed from light- with zoo admission. Math tutoring: 3:30–6 pm. Great weight materials like recycle paint cans Grandpa is the oldest living spider Kills Library. See Wednesday, April 4. NYPD Day: Staten Island Children’s or oatmeal boxes. Bring your own cam- monkey in the US. Come visit and cel- Museum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at Tysen era or use one of theirs to make a pin- ebrate his happy 40th birthday and pres- Picture-book time: 4 pm. New Dorp Street; (718) 273-2060; statenislandkids. hole photograph in the darkroom. Res- ent him with a cake. Library. See Wednesday, April 4. org; Noon–3 pm; Free with museum ad- ervations required. 48 staten island FAMILY • April 2012 Going Places Mon, April 23 Children 9-12 years old learn about frogs toads and everything amphibian. Baby and me: 11 am. Great Kills Li- brary. See Monday, April 9. MCU Appreciation day: Staten Island Children’s Museum, 1000 Rich- Teen lounge: 3:30 pm. Great Kills Li- mond Ter. at Tysen Street; (718) 273- brary. See Monday, April 2. 2060; statenislandkids.org; 10 am–5 pm; Free to all MCU members. Tues, April 24 Enjoy a day of fun activities. Toddler Time: Central Park Zoo, 830 Toddler Time: Central Park Zoo, 830 Fifth Ave at E. 65th Street; (212) 439- Fifth Ave at E. 65th Street; (212) 439- 6583; www.centralparkzoo.com/pro- 6583; www.centralparkzoo.com/programs; 10:30–11:30 am; $25 ($30 non- grams; 10:30–11:30 am; $25 ($30 non- members). members). Scaly Critters - for 2 and 3 year old Animal Sing-A-Long - for 2 and 3 year children. Live animals, movement and old children. Live animals, movement musical activities plus a craft. and musical activities plus a craft. Ballet Hispanico: 2 pm. The Joyce Wed, April 25 Theater. See Saturday, April 21. “Doktor Kaboom”: Enrichment Oldies concert: College of Staten Through the Arts, 11 Borman Ave. at Island, 2800 Victory Blvd. near Chris- Rockland Avenue; (718) 982-5678; 10 and 11:30 am; $8. topher Lane; (718) 982-2787 (ARTS); www.cfashows.com; 8 pm; $30, $35, Interactive science comedy show. $40. Math tutoring: 3:30 – 6 pm. Great Featuring the talents of The Platters Kills Library. See Wednesday, April 4. and The Marvelettes. Poetry night: Great Kills Library, 56 Giffords Ln at Margaret Street; (718) Sun, April 29 984-6670; www.nypl.org; 4 pm; Free. MCU Appreciation day: 10 am–5 Urban stages presents Blown Away By Striking ‘Yellowgold’ pm. Staten Island Children’s Museum. Poetry. For ages 6 and older. ow does a mellow-yel- Groundhog Day. In addition to See Saturday, April 28. Picture-book time: 4 pm. New Dorp low-fellow from the sun, the widely known holidays, such Recess Monkey: 92Y Tribeca, 200 Library. See Wednesday, April 4. H named Gustafer Yellow- as Halloween, Yellowgold cele- Hudson St. at Vestry Street; (212) 601- gold, celebrate Earth’s holidays? brates “unsung-about holidays,” 1000; www.92ytribeca.org/byok; 11 Thurs, April 26 Find out at the far-out, multime- including Fat Tuesday and Pan- am; $15 (Free for children under 2). Toddler Time: 10:30–11:30 am. Cen- dia release party for the “Gustafer cake Day in “Pancake Smack- The acclaimed Seattle children’s band tral Park Zoo. See Tuesday, April 17. Yellowgold’s Year in the Day” DVD down.” performs selections from the latest album. and CD set, on April 1 at 11 am at “Year in the Day,” featuring Ballet Hispanico: 2 pm. The Joyce Toddler story time: 11 am. Great the 92YTribeca. New songs from Gustafer, BF Forest Applecrumbie Kills Library. See Thursday, April 12. Theater. See Saturday, April 21. the DVD will be performed live by and pet eel Slim (short for Slimo- Earth day program: New Dorp Yellowgold creator Morgan Tay- thy), offers a unique blend of pop Natural science club: Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Ave. be- Library, 309 New Dorp Ln at Clawson lor and his band. music and cartoons. tween Amboy Road and Hylan Boule- Street; (718) 351-2977; www.nypl.org; “Gustafer Yellowgold’s Year in the In this fifth DVD set featuring vard; (718) 967-3542; www.nycgov- 4 pm; Free. Yellowgold, the little, conehead Day” [92YTribeca, 200 Hudson St. at Celebrate Mother Earth by making a parks.org; 2–3:30 pm; Free. sun-man is enjoying his new life Vestry Street in Tribeca, (212) 601- craft using recycled materials. For chil- Children 8-12 learn about science dren 5-12 years old. Pre-registration in the Minnesota woodlands, 1000] April 1 at 11 am. Tickets are from Naturalist Clay Wollney. Pre-regis- required. and he’s celebrating a year’s $15, and free for children ages 2 and tration requested. worth of the Earth’s holidays younger. “Gustafer Yellowgold’s Year Fri, April 27 in his own, unique way. Among in the Day” DVD and CD package, Mon, April 30 the 11 music videos are “New is $19.99, will be available for purchase Story time: 11 am. Great Kills Library. the New Old” and “A Shadow,” at the event. For more, visit www.92y. Teen lounge: 3:30 pm. Great Kills Li- See Friday, April 13. brary. See Monday, April 2. in honor of (need we say it?) org/tribeca/event. Doodlebug Fun: Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Ave. between Am- Wed, May 2 admission ($6 Free for members). Flipping pages: 3:30 pm. Alice Aus- boy Road and Hylan Boulevard; (718) “School of Rock”: Enrichment ten House. See Friday, March 30. 967-3542; www.nycgovparks.org; 1 Try a five-alarm recipe from real Through the Arts, 11 Borman Ave. at pm; $1 per session. firefighters. Fun Fridays: 3:30 pm. Great Kills Li- Rockland Avenue; (718) 982-5678; 10 Kathleen Hagen helps little ones kick brary. See Friday, April 6. and 11:30 am; $8. off the weekend with song, music and Children’s book day: New Dorp Pop culture performance featuring storytelling. For children 18 months to Library, 309 New Dorp Ln at Clawson Just a Bill, Lolly, Lolly, Lolly and Conjunc- four years. Pre-registration required. Ses- Street; (718) 351-2977; www.nypl.org; Sat, April 28 tion Junction. sion 2. 3 pm; Free. Nature workshop: Central Park Zoo, For children 4 and half years old and Kidz Cook: Staten Island Children’s 830 Fifth Ave at E. 65th Street; (212) Fri, May 4 Museum, 1000 Richmond Ter. at Tysen up - in a bilingual English/Spanish read- 439-6583; www.centralparkzoo.com/ Street; (718) 273-2060; statenislandkids. ing event, puppet show and craft. Pre- programs; 10–11:30 am; $35 ($40 non- Flipping pages: 3:30 pm. Alice Aus- org; 2, 3 and 4 pm; Free with museum registration required. members). ten House. See Friday, March 30. April 2012 • staten island FAMILY 49 New & Noteworthy For April showers Universal pleasure Make sure your kids feet are dry — and stylin’ Celebrate Earth became a pint-sized one, — in a pair of Keen’s waterproof Coronado rain Day with Recess Mu- while AudraRox laments boots. Available in a variety of smile-inducing sic’s Celebrate Earth that “Gravity” is keeping patterns for boys and girls, from Grass Print Music series’ “La Bella her down, and Andy Z (pictured); to not-scary Monsters on a field of Stella” CD. It’s struck croons that the Milky Way blue; to Dark Shadow, featuring adorable dogs on the right chord to com- is more than a candy bar a black background, these boots are lined with bine education and enter- in “Galaxy Song.” soft microfleece. tainment in kiddie music. There’s more good news ! A portion Perfect for romping through playgrounds and All 15 tracks are diversely styles, of the proceeds will be donated to the jumping in puddles, these boots slip on easily and each touches on the wonders of McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center with the help of their looped handles. But watch our universe. It’s recommended for in Concord, N.H. “La Bella Stella” CD, $12.99 plus out, they may be so comfy and fun that they’ll kids ages 4-11, but parents can hone their inner child, too! Rocknoceros’s $2.98 for shipping and handling. For soon have your child wishing for rainy “Pluto” relays how the former plant info, visit www.recessmusic.com. days that never go away. Avail- able in sizes 1-6. Coronado Rain Boot by Keen, $55. For more, visit Batty about friendship keenfootwear.com or call (866) 676-5336. Captivate your child with hat makes a fruit bat dif- Scholastic’s new animated ferent from birds: Did you version of Janell Cannon’s know they sleep upside 20-year-old story, “Stella- down and are covered in ‘Mirror’ reflects movie luna” — a DVD that brings fur? All ends happily with to life the eponymous fruit Stellaluna reuniting with bat which becomes sepa- her mother. The DVD also SOME KIDS JUST CAN’T It can be difficult to encourage lighting the magnificent costumes a child to choose a book over easy by another Oscar-winner, the late rated from her mother by has the option to watch the entertainment like video games Eiko Ishioka (“Immortals” and a swooping, hungry owl, film with a read-along func- and TV shows. But if it’s a chap- “Bram Stoker’s Dracula”). which then raises it as her tion — subtitles highlight WAIT FOR YMCA CAMP. ter book based on a magical new Parents, be warned that the book one of her own. each word as it’s spoken movie about a legendary princess, (geared toward kids ages 7 and up) A teensy bit scary? Maybe, but a — which could be a boon for young Have you made plans for your child’s summer yet? they just might be tempted to contains much call- lot of fun at the same time. Stella- readers. Fun songs folded into the nar- crack its spine. ing for the death of luna’s story is about accepting what rative, too, and it’s recommended for 7KH<0&$KDVWZRIXQZD\VWRIXO½OO\RXUFKLOGµVVXPPHUZLVKHVDW<0&$6XPPHU&DPS A new take Snow White; a teeth- makes her different, and along the children ages 2-8. At DAY CAMPSLQ1<&µV½YHERURXJKVRXUFDULQJVWDIIKHOSVNLGVJURZLQVHOIFRQ½GHQFH on the Grimm gnashing beast; way, the viewer learns fun facts about “Stellaluna” DVD, $12.95. For info, ZKLOHH[SORULQJQHZIULHQGVKLSVDQGWKHZRUOGDURXQGWKHP7KURXJKDQHPSKDVLVRQVXPPHU Brothers’ “Little magical, murderous these jungle inhabitants, lincluding visit newkideo.com. OHDUQLQJFDPSHUVKDYHWKHFKDQFHWREXLOGDFDGHPLFVNLOOVZKLOHH[SHULHQFLQJDOOWKH Snow White” mannequins; and — HQMR\PHQWRIVXPPHUFDPS fairy tale, the spoiler alert — an STATEN ISLAND YMCA PG-film “Mirror, apple-related mur- 2XUVOHHSDZD\NEW YORK YMCA CAMPLQWURGXFHVNLGVWRDZKROHQHZZRUOGRIDGYHQWXURXV DAY CAMP @ POUCH CAMP Mirror” is an ad- der-suicide. Overall, Yoga for two OHDUQLQJDQGH[FLWLQJH[SHULHQFHVMXVWPLOHVQRUWKZHVWRI1HZ

7KH<0&$KDVWZRIXQZD\VWRIXO½OO\RXUFKLOGµVVXPPHUZLVKHVDW<0&$6XPPHU&DPS At DAY CAMPSLQ1<&µV½YHERURXJKVRXUFDULQJVWDIIKHOSVNLGVJURZLQVHOIFRQ½GHQFH ZKLOHH[SORULQJQHZIULHQGVKLSVDQGWKHZRUOGDURXQGWKHP7KURXJKDQHPSKDVLVRQVXPPHU OHDUQLQJFDPSHUVKDYHWKHFKDQFHWREXLOGDFDGHPLFVNLOOVZKLOHH[SHULHQFLQJDOOWKH HQMR\PHQWRIVXPPHUFDPS STATEN ISLAND YMCA 2XUVOHHSDZD\NEW YORK YMCA CAMPLQWURGXFHVNLGVWRDZKROHQHZZRUOGRIDGYHQWXURXV DAY CAMP @ POUCH CAMP OHDUQLQJDQGH[FLWLQJH[SHULHQFHVMXVWPLOHVQRUWKZHVWRI1HZ

Financial Assistance is available ymcanyc.org/statenisland CAMP OPEN HOUSE Sunday, April 22 12 noon - 2pm Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds 2012 1131 Manor Road

SPECIAL MEMBERSHIP OFFER TO FIRST TIME CAMP FAMILIES ONLY CAMP DATES July 2 - August 24 plus pre- & post-camp

Call 718.475.5232 or visit camp.sijcc.org and download our 2012 brochure