March 2015 Queens FREE Family Where Every Child Matters fresh start Conquering the Common Core Tackling tween acne Supporting your child’s athletics

start thinking summer! Find us online at Camps 2015 NYParenting.com Save the date Saturday, March 7th, 2015 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

BreAking Through wAllS: Breakthroughs in Twice exceptional education The Cooper Union, The Great Hall, 7 East 7th Street, NYC 10003

AnnuAl ConferenCe on TwiCe exCepTionAl Children As the first and only New York City conference focusing exclusively on Twice Exceptional children, this national conference, hosted by the Quad Preparatory School in partnership with The Cooper Union, will bring together cutting-edge Twice Exceptional providers — including physicians, educators, psychologists, and advocates — with children who are gifted and learn differently, and their parents. Collectively, we aim to return education to the transformative experience every child deserves.

Sponsored by:

for furTher inforMATion, pleASe ConTACT: Alana greenberg at [email protected] or 646-649-3913 Queens Family March 2015

Features 6 Teacher’s tips Advice for students taking the Common Core English Language Arts exam in third through eighth grades By Allison Plitt 8 Dos & don’ts at the doctor’s office By Dr. Matthew Weissman 10 Under their skin When acne is spotted, these tips can help by Jamie Lober 12 Open communication Actions speak louder than words when families try to understand one another By Carolyn-Waterbury Tieman 14 When Mom and Dad have camp anxiety Terrified about sending your child away? Here’s how to ease those fears By Dr. Heidi Smith Luedtke 20 New York International Children’s Film Festival The country’s largest film festival for kids and teens is happening right here in New York City by Shnieka L. Johnson 26 How to be a better cheerleader for your young athlete What mom and dad can do to support their kids’ athletic endeavors By Denise Yearian columns 16 Healthy Living special sections by Danielle Sullivan 11 Charter School Directory 22 Parents Helping Parents 17 Camp Directory by Sharon C. Peters 33 The Marketplace 23 Ask an Attorney By Alison Arden Besunder, Esq. 24 Divorce & Separation By Lee Chabin, Esq. 34 Good Sense Eating by Christine M. Palumbo, RD

calendar 28 March Events

March 2015 • QUEENS Family 3 Letter from the publisher Parenting choices all month long ho in New York every day in every way well being. I argued with teachers at our helpful and informative web- isn’t ready for between being a working sometimes (while being fully respect- site, www.NYParenting.com. Our W a change in parent and working as a ful of their objectives and priorities) Calendar Editor Joanna makes a big the weather? When those parent. I know from first- that no, my daughter had not done effort to put together an exciting and first pussy willows come hand experience. her homework because we had gone full monthly guide to great events up and we see some buds, Although I didn’t set out the night before to the ballet, or around the five boroughs. Speaking we will be much happier. out to be a single parent, had seen a play. I considered us very of our website, there is more infor- In the meantime, the days it turned out that way, and lucky to have that even as an option, mation and helpful and provocative are growing longer and the responsibilities I had so saying no to the invite would have articles on our site than we are able the quality of light will tell us that combining a very necessary career been nuts. That’s what life in New to offer in print. If you like what you spring is just around the bend. with raising my child were daunting York means to me and why I came read here in the magazine, you will Our March issue offers a look to say the least. Somehow, however, here long ago from Chicago. love the site. If you need any help in ahead at Summer Programs & Camps in spite of the full load, I managed I believe in the enhancement of a navigating to find what you’re look- as well as at Charter School tours. to become the head of our school’s total education that does not always ing for, give us a call. With April registration dates loom- parent body, drive my daughter to take place in a classroom, but is Have a great month. Watch for the ing, now is the time to begin doing the soccer games all over Long Island found on the road on a family trip, signs of spring. It’s definitely around research necessary to select choices for two years, while also managing to in a museum, in front of PBS qual- the bend. Thanks for reading. for further investigation. One great take trips, visit museums, and go to ity television programming, hearing thing about being a parent in New the theater and ballet with her. music, seeing a family show, or read- York is that there is an abundance of We are enormously fortunate to ing a book together. Family time choice. Finding out your options and have so much intelligent stimulation used well and fully is an integral then going on tours is part of the re- around us and that we owe it to our piece of life and creates a foundation sponsibility of parenting. One needs children to participate with them in that is profound. Susan Weiss-Voskidis, to be a strong advocate for one’s the myriad of possibilities that will That said, please make use of our Publisher/Excutive Editor children, although it’s a balancing act further enhance their education and Calendars, both in print and online [email protected]

Community News Group Contact Information ceo: Les Goodstein advertising: Web or Print address President & Publisher: Jennifer Goodstein (718) 260­4554 New York Parenting Media/CNG [email protected] or 1 Metrotech Center North New York Parenting [email protected] 10th Floor circulation Brooklyn, NY 11201 Publisher / executive editor: (718) 260­8336 Susan Weiss [email protected] Publisher / business Manager: www.NYParenting.com Clifford Luster editorial (718) 260­4554 oPerations associate: Tina Felicetti [email protected] sales rePs: Alexis Benson, Erin Brof, Jay calendar Pelc, Stephanie Stellacio, Shanika Stewart (718) 260­2523 art director: Leah Mitch

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4 QUEENS Family • March 2015 Sholom Daycare Serving your community since 1999 Operational Hours: Children ages 1-5 welcome 7:30am-5pm Mon- Thurs • Universal Pre-K (Free Full Day) Speech pathology & Swallowing • Infant, Toddler and Nursery 7:30am-4pm Program Friday DiSorDer ServiceS of long iSlanD • Individual Attention Extended hours • Yellow Bus Transportation available upon Specializing in the Treatment and Correction of: • Glatt Kosher request • Outdoor Facilities Language Disorders • Memory & Auditory Processing Difficulties • Music and Movement Fluency • Voice Disorders • Motor Planning Disorders Specialist Deviate Swallowing which Contributes to Orthodontic, Pedodontic and Periodontic Problems • Year-Round Care and Tongue Thrust • Feeding and Swallowing Problems / Aversions Thumb and Finger Sucking • Articulation Disorders • Oral Facial Muscle Weekness much more Sholom Day Care is a world of wonder, a place where learning is created through Specialized Therapy Approaches Including hands of individualized instruction PROMPT Therapy • Individual Feeding Therapy Augumentative Communication Evaluations & Therapy 116-66 Parklane South, Kew Gardens 84-15 Beverly Rd., Kew Gardens participating with moSt major 75-15 Main Street, Flushing health inSurance companieS “Early Learn Program” 82-02 Lefferts Blvd. | 84-37 118th Street 444 laKeville roaD laKe SucceSS, ny 11042 OUR NEWLY EXPANDED LOCATION 718-640-6767 84-15 Beverly Road, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 • 718-850-2934 www.liSpeechanDmyo.com

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March 2015 • QUEENS Family 5 blank, Quercia advises, “Never leave multiple-choice questions blank. The teacher will give you a two-minute warning at the end of the test. With two minutes left, finish the ques- tion you’re working on and then you might be able to start one more. Bub- ble in answers if you have five blank answers left. Just guess. Bubble in ‘C, C, C’ or ‘A, B, C, D.’ There’s no penalty for guessing.” In regards to the extended-re- sponse questions, Quercia uses a formula that her school has been Teacher’s using for years called RAFT. As she explains, “R stands for ‘restate the question.’ A is ‘answer the question’ or parts of the question. F stands ‘for example.’ That’s where you give, for example, your text details. Students can quote the text details or para- phrase them. T is to ‘tie it together,’ to conclude it. Tie your conclusion back to the topic sentence in the introduc- tion. Use summary type phrases like ‘as you can see.’ Those four steps should give you a good solid essay.” tips Quercia warns about a part of the exam where students are asked to By Allison Plitt read two passages on the same topic. Advice for “There will be a paired passage in y daughter is enrolled in one of the test booklets. It’s probably students taking the third grade at a Queens the third day. It’s two passages on a M public elementary school. similar topic. You’ll read the passages the Common For the past two years, she has come and then there will be questions home with report cards saying she only about the first passage. Then Core English performs above grade level in writ- there will be questions just about the ing. Since I work as a writer I have second passage. Then there might been trying to help her formulate her be a short-response question about Language Arts ideas into words and then into coher- both. Then you write an extended- ent sentences. Although my daugh- response question and you must in- exam in third ter is conscientious about doing her clude details from both passages as homework, I have found she is not it says it in the directions.” through eighth receptive to listening to my advice Since teachers from other schools when it comes to helping her com- will grade the short- and extended-re- grades pose sentences and essays. sponse questions, Quercia says hand- This year I finally made the deci- writing should be neat and legible. sion to hire a tutor to help her place “I’ve scored the test for the city her words onto paper. I found a The Common Core Standards Eng- each day to respond to all the ques- The reading passages are sepa- “I tell them to read the questions swers, she says, “They can flip back and you’re sitting in this room with woman through an online tutoring lish Language Arts exam for grades tions in their booklet. Students in rated into four categories: exposi- first because it gives you an idea as much as they need to.” Because all of these other teachers reading service who had been teaching Eng- three through eight is a three-day grades three and four will have an tory (explanatory), argumentative, about what the passage is about and an electronic machine scores the test after test after test. Once you lish Language Arts to middle school test on April 14, 15, and 16. It is com- hour and 10 minutes each day to re- instructional, and narrative. Creat- an idea about what you should be multiple-choice part of the test, she come across that test that’s sloppy, students at a Brooklyn public school prised of the same types of ques- spond to the questions. ing a seven-step guide for answering concentrating on,” she said. says it is important that children you really have to keep deciphering for 11 years. The New York City tions for all six grades. Students “There is just so much informa- the multiple-choice questions, Quer- After the students preview the fill in all of the bubble for their an- it. You can ask the other teachers Department of Education’s English are given three booklets: one to tion packed into the English Lan- cia says, “I always tell my students to questions, Quercia recommends swers. to come over and have this whole classes are comprised of speaking, complete each day of the test. On guage Arts testing booklet, so timing read the directions first. Then, take that they read the passages actively. As Quercia has proctored the test group discussion about this one test listening, vocabulary, reading com- the first day, there will be reading is important,” Quercia advises. a look at the title of the piece and “Students should be looking for for many years, she has seen every book because you can’t read it. The prehension, grammar, and writing. passages and multiple-choice ques- The night before the exam, Quer- also see if there are any pictures to key details from the questions as possible problem happen. truth is the test is easier to grade The tutor, Lisa Quercia, also pre- tions. On the second day the test cia tells parents to make sure their scan over. Sometimes the directions they read. They can bring and use “Every now and then I would catch when it’s legible.” pares her own students for their booklet is comprised of reading pas- children get enough sleep. might give them a hint. They might highlighters on the exam and high- a kid just answering in the test book To obtain more information about yearly state exam, and last year was sages, multiple-choice questions, “It’s also important to build confi- say ‘read this article,’ then you know light information that is part of the and then waiting to transfer the an- the New York State Common Core Stan- the first time she taught test prepara- short-response questions, and one dence in your children, so tell them it’s non-fiction and you’ll probably answer later, but they shouldn’t get swers to the answer sheet. That can dards exams, educators, parents and tion for the New York State Common extended-response question. The to do the best they can do,” she says. learn something. If the directions carried away with highlighting be- be a disaster if the student puts one students can visit the website www. Core Standards English Language third day’s booklet will have read- On the day of the exam, Quercia say ‘read this story,’ then you know cause it can slow them down.” answer in one wrong spot — then engageny.org. Arts exam. ing passages, short-response ques- advises that students eat a healthy you’re going to have characters, set- As far as answering the multiple- the whole test is wrong. It’s impor- Allison Plitt is an English Language “This is the second real year for tions, and one extended-response breakfast. “If students eat any sug- tings, problems, and solutions.” choice questions, Quercia encour- tant that students put their multiple- Art writer who lives in Queens with the Common Core Exam because question. ary foods or drinks for breakfast, Another tip Quercia tells her stu- ages students to use process of elim- choice answers on the answer sheet her husband and young daughter. She the first year is really transitional,” Students in grades five through then they get tired in the middle of dents is to preview the question be- ination. Encouraging students to go right away.” is a frequent contributor to New York she observed. eight will have an hour and a half the exam,” she observed. fore reading the passage. back to the passage to find the an- In regards to leaving answers Parenting.

6 QUEENS Family • March 2015 blank, Quercia advises, “Never leave multiple-choice questions blank. The teacher will give you a two-minute warning at the end of the test. With two minutes left, finish the ques- tion you’re working on and then you might be able to start one more. Bub- ble in answers if you have five blank answers left. Just guess. Bubble in ‘C, C, C’ or ‘A, B, C, D.’ There’s no penalty for guessing.” In regards to the extended-re- sponse questions, Quercia uses a formula that her school has been Teacher’s using for years called RAFT. As she explains, “R stands for ‘restate the question.’ A is ‘answer the question’ or parts of the question. F stands ‘for example.’ That’s where you give, for example, your text details. Students can quote the text details or para- phrase them. T is to ‘tie it together,’ to conclude it. Tie your conclusion back to the topic sentence in the introduc- tion. Use summary type phrases like ‘as you can see.’ Those four steps should give you a good solid essay.” tips Quercia warns about a part of the exam where students are asked to By Allison Plitt read two passages on the same topic. Advice for “There will be a paired passage in y daughter is enrolled in one of the test booklets. It’s probably students taking the third grade at a Queens the third day. It’s two passages on a M public elementary school. similar topic. You’ll read the passages the Common For the past two years, she has come and then there will be questions home with report cards saying she only about the first passage. Then Core English performs above grade level in writ- there will be questions just about the ing. Since I work as a writer I have second passage. Then there might been trying to help her formulate her be a short-response question about Language Arts ideas into words and then into coher- both. Then you write an extended- ent sentences. Although my daugh- response question and you must in- exam in third ter is conscientious about doing her clude details from both passages as homework, I have found she is not it says it in the directions.” through eighth receptive to listening to my advice Since teachers from other schools when it comes to helping her com- will grade the short- and extended-re- grades pose sentences and essays. sponse questions, Quercia says hand- This year I finally made the deci- writing should be neat and legible. sion to hire a tutor to help her place “I’ve scored the test for the city her words onto paper. I found a The Common Core Standards Eng- each day to respond to all the ques- The reading passages are sepa- “I tell them to read the questions swers, she says, “They can flip back and you’re sitting in this room with woman through an online tutoring lish Language Arts exam for grades tions in their booklet. Students in rated into four categories: exposi- first because it gives you an idea as much as they need to.” Because all of these other teachers reading service who had been teaching Eng- three through eight is a three-day grades three and four will have an tory (explanatory), argumentative, about what the passage is about and an electronic machine scores the test after test after test. Once you lish Language Arts to middle school test on April 14, 15, and 16. It is com- hour and 10 minutes each day to re- instructional, and narrative. Creat- an idea about what you should be multiple-choice part of the test, she come across that test that’s sloppy, students at a Brooklyn public school prised of the same types of ques- spond to the questions. ing a seven-step guide for answering concentrating on,” she said. says it is important that children you really have to keep deciphering for 11 years. The New York City tions for all six grades. Students “There is just so much informa- the multiple-choice questions, Quer- After the students preview the fill in all of the bubble for their an- it. You can ask the other teachers Department of Education’s English are given three booklets: one to tion packed into the English Lan- cia says, “I always tell my students to questions, Quercia recommends swers. to come over and have this whole classes are comprised of speaking, complete each day of the test. On guage Arts testing booklet, so timing read the directions first. Then, take that they read the passages actively. As Quercia has proctored the test group discussion about this one test listening, vocabulary, reading com- the first day, there will be reading is important,” Quercia advises. a look at the title of the piece and “Students should be looking for for many years, she has seen every book because you can’t read it. The prehension, grammar, and writing. passages and multiple-choice ques- The night before the exam, Quer- also see if there are any pictures to key details from the questions as possible problem happen. truth is the test is easier to grade The tutor, Lisa Quercia, also pre- tions. On the second day the test cia tells parents to make sure their scan over. Sometimes the directions they read. They can bring and use “Every now and then I would catch when it’s legible.” pares her own students for their booklet is comprised of reading pas- children get enough sleep. might give them a hint. They might highlighters on the exam and high- a kid just answering in the test book To obtain more information about yearly state exam, and last year was sages, multiple-choice questions, “It’s also important to build confi- say ‘read this article,’ then you know light information that is part of the and then waiting to transfer the an- the New York State Common Core Stan- the first time she taught test prepara- short-response questions, and one dence in your children, so tell them it’s non-fiction and you’ll probably answer later, but they shouldn’t get swers to the answer sheet. That can dards exams, educators, parents and tion for the New York State Common extended-response question. The to do the best they can do,” she says. learn something. If the directions carried away with highlighting be- be a disaster if the student puts one students can visit the website www. Core Standards English Language third day’s booklet will have read- On the day of the exam, Quercia say ‘read this story,’ then you know cause it can slow them down.” answer in one wrong spot — then engageny.org. Arts exam. ing passages, short-response ques- advises that students eat a healthy you’re going to have characters, set- As far as answering the multiple- the whole test is wrong. It’s impor- Allison Plitt is an English Language “This is the second real year for tions, and one extended-response breakfast. “If students eat any sug- tings, problems, and solutions.” choice questions, Quercia encour- tant that students put their multiple- Art writer who lives in Queens with the Common Core Exam because question. ary foods or drinks for breakfast, Another tip Quercia tells her stu- ages students to use process of elim- choice answers on the answer sheet her husband and young daughter. She the first year is really transitional,” Students in grades five through then they get tired in the middle of dents is to preview the question be- ination. Encouraging students to go right away.” is a frequent contributor to New York she observed. eight will have an hour and a half the exam,” she observed. fore reading the passage. back to the passage to find the an- In regards to leaving answers Parenting.

March 2015 • QUEENS Family 7 Dos & don’ts at the doctor’s office

By Dr. Matthew weissMan can quickly become confusing. So, the HPV vaccine, which helps pro- what should parents always do? tect children from human papil- s every parent knows, chil- Never do? Be cautious about? lomavirus — a virus associated dren, especially younger As an internist, pediatrician, and with multiple types of cancer. It’s A children, spend a lot of time a father of three, I’ve seen health- recommended for all children and at the doctor’s office. Whether it’s care in a lot of different forms. young adults between the ages of for a check-up or a sick visit, it Here’s my advice on what parents 9 and 26, and children need to get seems like you and your child are should stick to and what they three doses over the course of six in and out of the doctor’s office on should question or avoid: months. I highly recommend that a regular basis. you add this to your child’s list of Your child’s routine doctor visit Do this: vaccinations. (You may want to up- is the time to check up on growth Get vaccinated. It is important date your own vaccines, including and development, get up-to-date to vaccinate young children and hepatitis A and B, influenza, teta- on vaccines, and raise any health- adolescents from potentially life- nus, and pertussis.) related questions or concerns. But, threatening diseases. Schools re- ask for the flu shot. Younger with all the information out there quire certain vaccinations for at- children are at the top of the list, and different options for different tendance, and that’s a great thing.* along with the elderly, for high risk tests, a visit to the doctor’s office You may have recently heard about of hospitalization from the flu. The

8 QUEENS Family • March 2015 Center for Disease Control reports child is showing potential symp- that approximately 20,000 chil- toms of a urinary tract infection — dren under the age of 5 are hos- such as pain while urinating, the pitalized with the flu every year. frequent urge to urinate without Are you a mom The New York City Department urination, or a fever or abdominal of Education now requires the flu pain, or has particular family or shot for all children, so be sure to personal risk factors — there is get your child vaccinated. The flu likely no need for a urine test. who wants to shot is never 100 percent effec- Annual tuberculosis test. Tu- tive, but you should still get it 100 berculosis has become less com- percent of the time. Most healthy mon with time, and most children make money? children over age 2 can get a nasal are at very low risk of having the spray flu vaccine, so needles are infection. A child’s risk for devel- not even required. oping it is heightened if she has Find out Body Mass Index HIV or another condition that (BMI). This simple number that leads to a weakened immune sys- measures body fat based on tem, if she lives with an adult height, weight, age, and gender with tuberculosis, and if she was will reveal whether or not your born in or is visiting a country child is at a healthy weight. If where the infection is prevalent. your child’s Body Mass Index falls Tuberculosis testing (through a into the “overweight” or “obese” skin test or blood test) should category, she is at greater overall be reserved for those at highest risk for high blood pressure, high risk. cholesterol, breathing problems, EKG or chest X-ray. Radiation and serious health problems as exposure is linked to increased she gets older. risk of cancer, so it is important to Check up on vision and hear- limit the amount of X-rays a child ing. Medical researchers have es- receives to only what is neces- timated that one in eight Ameri- sary. While the risk from a single cans over the age of 12 have some X-ray is low, cumulative radiation degree of hearing loss in both exposure should be avoided. If ears, and approximately 12 million your child has not demonstrated adults in the US who are in need any risk factors associated with of vision correction are not using heart problems or heartbeat ir- any. It’s important to screen chil- regularity, a routine EKG is not dren regularly for hearing and vi- necessary or recommended. In We want you to join our team. sion impairment, as problems can general, unnecessary screening come to the surface from early tests can drive up medical costs on. and lead to more invasive testing We are looking for a Talk with your child’s doctor down the road. about developmental milestones Finding out your blood type. motivated candidate. — and get anticipatory guidance. For many children, this is part You need to make sure that your of the birth and vaccine record. child is developing at the proper If not, there is generally no need No sales experience necessary, rate. And, since young children to do a blood test just because g row so quick ly, they should be v is - someone “wants to know.” Save but a car and liking people iting the doctor much more often your child the blood draw and she during their first few years, where can find out her blood type if and is a must! someone can assess whether they when it really matters. are meeting their milestones. After that, a child should see the doctor For more information: Full benefits, salary and at least once annually, not just to • N e w York State Immunization check her development, but also requirements chart: www.health. commission to talk about what to expect over ny.gov/publications/2370.pdf the coming year, and how to best • Fo r information on what vac- prepare. cines are required or recommended for school children by New York Skip this: State, visit www.health.ny.gov/pre- Annual blood test. Healthy vention/immunization/childhood_ Email resumes to [email protected] children typically do not require a and_adolescent.htm regular blood test, as long as they • Fo r other avoidable tests for or call Tina at 718-260-8336 maintain a balanced and nutrient- children, check out www.choos- rich diet. An exception should be ingwisely.org/doctor-patient-lists/ made for children with certain american-academy-of-pediatrics/ risk factors such as a personal or family history of medical prob- Dr. Matthew Weissman is the chief lems or deficiencies. medical officer at Community Health- Annual urine test. Unless a care Network.

March 2015 • QUEENS Family 9 Under their skin By Jamie LoBer tion of puberty when the body is pro- ple usually start with over-the-coun- When acne ducing increased levels of hormones ter medications for mild acne. ccording to the American called androgens, which in turn “I suggest something that contains is spotted, Academy of Pediatrics, acne cause increased production of oily benzoyl peroxide, which helps pre- A is one of the most common sebum and increased blockage of vent the formation of acne pimples, skin conditions in children and ado- the oil glands facilitating the growth or salicylic acid, which helps open these tips lescents. We all remember the feel- of acne bacteria,” said Orlow. up the clogged pores,” said Orlow. ing of embarrassment and self-con- When the oil gets trapped, you If over-the-counter treatments can help sciousness that comes with a pimple have acne inflammation. don’t seem to work, make an ap- — and we wish it would clear up over “Some individuals are more sus- pointment with a dermatologist. Pre- night. But the American Academy ceptible to this problem and that is pare for your appointment by mak- of Pediatrics said that it can take why some have worse acne than oth- ing a list of “everything you used three to six weeks or longer to see a ers,” said Orlow. before, and try to recall what worked change, and 12 weeks for maximum Remind your child that nobody is and what did not,” said Orlow. improvement. However, with time to blame for the acne. Be an active participant in your and intervention from a dermatolo- “It has little if anything to do with healthcare. gist, your child’s skin can improve. cleanliness, and you cannot scrub it “Do not be afraid to ask questions “We wish that patients realized that away,” said Orlow. Some kids are at like how much to put on, exactly how we are generally going to treat acne higher risk than others. to use the medications, and if some- rather than cure it and that it takes “In women, irregular periods, ex- thing seems so impractical that you time to do so,” said Dr. Seth Orlow, cess facial hair, and obesity may be cannot make it work, let your doc- chairman and professor at the Ronald linked to acne,” said Orlow. Time is tor know rather than just not using O. Perelman Department of Dermatol- the best medicine. it,” said Orlow. Topical retinoids are ogy at NYU Langone Medical Center. “Red marks that are left as in- often prescribed to help, or, oral an- “Even the most effective treatments flamed acne lesions go away with tibiotics may be given for moderate work slowly, so you need to stick with continued treatment, so please do to severe cases. them to see the benefits.” not pick at your acne lesions be- Patients failing to comply with Acne can be part of growth and cause we want to avoid scarring, and treatment regimens are one of the development. not foster it,” said Orlow. biggest obstacles that dermatolo- “Adolescent acne is a skin condi- When it comes to treatment, peo- gists face. “Too often, patients become frus- trated with slow progress, and as a result, lose interest in following rec- ommendations,” said Orlow. While there are always new rem- edies, the idea behind treatment is the same as it was years ago. “The focus is on three key fac- tors: preventing dead skin cells from blocking the oil glands, reducing ex- cessive oil production, and reducing acne-causing bacteria,” said Orlow. While most over-the-counter med- ications take care of skin cell shed- ding and acne bacteria, they do not all attack the excessive oil produc- tion. Finding a doctor that you trust can make a difference as well. “Board-certified dermatologists are well-trained to treat even the most severe acne, but you need a doctor with whom you feel com- fortable and who can serve as both quarterback and cheerleader simul- taneously,” said Orlow. Jamie Lober, author of Pink Power (www.getpinkpower.com), is dedicated to providing information on women’s and pediatric health topics. She can be reached at [email protected]. © 2013 Jamie Lober

10 QUEENS Family • March 2015 Digital CAMP Academy of the City Charter School 31-29 60 Street, Woodside 11377 718-487-9857 www.academyofthecity.org Serving Kindergarten through 2nd Grade in 2015-16. Progressive, Student- GUIDE Oriented Curriculum Rich Language Arts, Math, Science, Art and Social Studies Curriculum. State of the art technology program, art and music part of regu- lar curriculum.GARDEN Experienced and dedicated teaching staffSCHOOL and school leaders. Preference for District 30: Woodside, Long Island City, Astoria, Sunnyside, East Elmhurst & Jackson Heights.JACKSON Extended Day and Extended HEIGHTS Year, Afterschool Program and Yellow Busing. Our students will become independent thinkers, lifelong learners, and responsible members of their communities. We are committed to an educational philosophy rooted in social justice, inquiry, experiential and collaborative learning. Through a literacy-based, integrated curriculum that encourages community and honors diversity, our students receive the education they will need to meet the challenges of the best high schools, be prepared for our best colleges and universities, and thrive in today’s world. Check it out on nyparenting.com Apply online or call the school for information.

12TH ANNUAL APRIL 22–24, 2015 Wyndham New Yorker Hotel GARDENUALITY SCHOOL Q JACKSON HEIGHTS CARING AFFORDABLE KEYNOTE SPEAKERS GREAT SPEAKERS. GREAT LEARNING. SISTER TESA FITZGERALD (Excellence in Early Childhood HELPING YOUNG CHILDREN LEARN & GROW Award Recipient), Executive Director, Hour Children OVERVIEW QUALITY Over 100 Speakers CARING DAN ZANES More than 80 Conference Sessions President/Founder AFFORDABLE Festival Five Records Full Day Pre-Conference Workshop 40 Exhibitors & Over 1,200 Attendees expected DR. TEMPLE GRANDIN TOPICS Professor Dept. of Animal Science ADHD Emotional Intelligence Colorado State University Autism Essentials Educational Policy Behavior Management Music and Learning DR. DIANE CRAFT Professor Bullying Play Physical Education Department Developmental Discipline Social Skills Development State University of NY at Cortland Early Literacy Speech Language Issues . . . and many more NURSERY TO GRADE 12 MAGGIE DOYNE Founder and CEO NURSERY TO GRADE 12 BlinkNow Foundation The Young Child Expo & Conference will provide early childhood professionals and parents the latest OPEN HOUSEOPEN HOUSE EVERY EVERY WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY AT 9:00 ATAM 9:00 AM information about early childhood development, NICHOLAS KRISTOF services, resources, and products to help all children r
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 Open communication By Carolyn WaterBury- to subscribe to the misguided no- vulnerable is that we give other peo- Actions speak tieman tion that if someone really loves you, ple the power to determine our self they will automatically be able to worth. We forget that at the same louder than common complaint in cou- read your mind. time we are protecting ourselves ples and families is “we don’t We sabotage our communication, from pain and disappointment, we A communicate.” Whether it is and ultimately our relationships, in are also robbing ourselves of the words when between spouses or parents and so many ways. It is amazing how well opportunity for deeply satisfying re- children, the typical description is, “I we have learned to communicate lationships with our spouses, chil- families try to keep talking, begging for a response, poorly. One can only wonder what dren, relatives, and friends. and he just refuses to communicate would happen if we put as much en- Now that we know all behavior is with me!” There was a time when I ergy into learning to communicate communication, how can we com- understand would have accepted this statement effectively as we put into avoiding it. municate more effectively with our and assumed the uncommunicative Some of the practices that get in the children, and teach them to do the one another party just needed to be more com- way of effective communication are: same? Here are a few suggestions: municative. Then I realized that all Failure to match verbal and learn and model open, honest behavior, both verbal and nonver- nonverbal cues. Communication in- communication. Take the time and bal, is communication and conveys a volves more than just the words we make the effort to accurately identify message. So the issue is not whether speak (studies have actually shown your feelings before speaking. Are or not you’re communicating, but that we pay the least amount of at- you really mad, or are you actually what you are communicating and tention to the words). It includes hurt or disappointed? Are you really how well you are communicating it. tone of voice, facial expressions, and angry, or are you actually scared, When people experience others body language. When the cues from embarrassed, or exhausted? You are as not communicating with them, these don’t match, the likelihood much more likely to get the response it is often because the receiver is of miscommunication is significantly you desire if you are honest about not responding in the manner that increased. how you feel. the sender desired, so the sender the filters we are listening Be sure the message you are assumes the receiver didn’t “hear” through. Perhaps you weren’t aware sending is the one intended. At- the message. Some individuals as- that there are tiny, invisible — and tempt to match your words with a sume that if the receiver doesn’t yes, metaphorical — filters in our tone of voice, facial expressions, and agree with the message, the receiver ears. They begin developing at birth body language that clarify (rather must not have heard or understood and are shaped by the significant than confuse) the message you are correctly. These people tend to con- communications we participate trying to convey. Tacking on the fuse lack of agreement with mis- in as children. These filters deter- phrase, “I love you,” after a scathing understanding. The confusion may mine how we hear the messages comment or while focused on a com- be intensified if the receiver does others send. Sometimes they create puter screen doesn’t feel like love to not know how to effectively express static that interferes with messages the receiver. For words to mean any- their disagreement. so that we hear criticism, threats, thing, actions have to match them. Then there are those individu- doubt, mistrust, or personal attacks Check your filters and replace als who send incomplete or hidden whether or not any was intended. accordingly. If you have faulty fil- messages that are supposed to be Our filters tend to reflect our level of ters, do something about it. Clean decoded by the receiver who may self-esteem. them out and replace them with not even realize a message has been our emotional vulnerability. filters that allow you to listen freely sent. These message senders tend One of the primary reasons we feel and keep your sense of self-worth

12 QUEENS Family • March 2015 intact. Remember, the way others Take the time to consider what you want your I’m about to say?” You might want to communicate with you says more find a different way to say it. about them than about you. Be sure words to accomplish before delivering a reply. Our We can either encourage or dis- the way you communicate with oth- courage our children’s enthusiasm, ers reflects the kind of person you communication must convince our children that we curiosity, and willingness to com- are, or perhaps, the kind of person care enough to listen and respond thoughtfully. municate with us by the way we lis- you want to be. ten and the things we say. Since the Be quick to listen, slow to speak. relationship we establish with our Listen with your eyes as well as your ing, questioning, evaluating, and ad- For every complaint you have children is the foundation for every ears. (Remember: listening does not vising may be done with the best of about a child, find five things you other relationship they will ever mean approval, acceptance, or auto- intentions, these tactics tend to di- appreciate about him. Be sure you have, the model for communication matic permission. It just means you minish rather than enhance commu- are doing as good a job expressing we provide has implications for their are listening.) Listen for the feelings nication. If we expect compliance, the latter as the former. It’s easier relationships with their peers, their behind the words and behavior, the cooperation, honesty, and respect to comply with, “Thank you for re- spouses, and eventually, their chil- feelings that are motivating the per- from our children, they are much membering to put your dishes in the dren. If we can’t not communicate, son to speak and behave in the way more likely to exhibit these when we dishwasher.” “I really appreciate you why not invest the time and effort you are observing. Restate what you communicate clearly, consistently, getting right in on your homework.” necessary to do it well? Talk may be think you heard them say and check honestly, and respectfully with “When you finish, would you please cheap, but effective communication for accuracy before formulating a them. I know I respond much more pick up the dirty clothes in your is priceless! response. Take the time to consider favorably to someone who speaks to room and put them in the hamper? Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman has de- what you want your words to accom- me in this manner. How about you? I need to do laundry,” than “Your grees in Child Development, Family plish before delivering a reply. Our Use open-ended questions. In- room is a mess,” “You are such a Studies, and Marriage and Family Ther- communication must convince our stead of asking, “Did you have a good slob,” or “Get in there and pick up apy. Waterbury-Tieman has been mar- children that we care enough to lis- day?” ask “What was good about your dirty clothes this minute!” ried for 29 years and has two sons. She ten and respond thoughtfully. your day?” The former requires a The next time you find yourself spent 15 years in various agencies and Talk “with” rather than “at” simple yes or no response. The latter about to let them “have it” or give clinics as a family therapist and parent your children. While nagging, criti- is an invitation to become engaged in them a piece of your mind, ask your- educator. To contact her, e-mail paren- cizing, cajoling, threatening, lectur- meaningful conversation. self, “How would I respond to what [email protected].

March 2015 • QUEENS Family 13 When Mom & Dad have camp anxiety Terrified about sending your child away? Here’s how to ease those fears

By Dr. HeiDi SmitH LueDtke

f your kids are going to sleep- away camp this summer, you I may be wrestling with worries and what-ifs: • W h a t if he wets the bed? • W h a t if the other kids are cliqu- ish or mean? • Will the camp director call me if she’s miserable?

Why parents worry “Much of our anxiety as parents stems from the fact that there are so many things we cannot control in our children’s lives,” says Dr. Paul Donahue, a clinical psycholo- gist and author of “Parenting With- out Fear.” You may worry that without structure, kids won’t be able to handle routine tasks like show- ering, brushing teeth, or getting dressed. One mom I know felt so sure her son wouldn’t change clothes at camp that she packed his items — one pair of underwear, shorts, shirt, and socks — in gal- lon-size Ziploc bags, labeled with the days of the week. Because parents focus so much on kids’ needs, it’s hard

14 QUEENS Family • March 2015 Ultimately, parents want kids to become March 2015 self-reliant, and building self-reliance QUEENS FREE requires parents do less — not more — for their kids. Camp builds competence Family and independence. Give your kids time Where Every Child Matters to stretch beyond their comfort zones. fresh to step back. Coverage of natu- and independence. Give your kids START ral disasters and child predators time to stretch beyond their com- makes the world seem scary. fort zones. Conquering the “Concern about the safety of Have a plan. Keep anxieties in Common Core children has become something control by making a plan for how of a national obsession,” Dona- you’ll use your “time off.” Sched- Tackling hue observes. Even though our ule special time with siblings who protective instincts keep us on aren’t going camping. Plan a ro- tween acne edge, sometimes we have to trust mantic date or overnight getaway others to care for our kids, and with your spouse. Learn some- Supporting your trust our kids to look out for thing new or catch up on your child’s athletics themselves. favorite shows. Stay busy (but in a Fear of letting go can also be good way). You deserve a change driven by our own uncertainty of pace, too. Start thinking summer! about who we are without our Share stories. One sure-fire Find us online at kids and what we’ll do while way to break out of anxiety is Camps 2015 NYParenting.com they’re away. Without baseball to remember and share the fun practice, piano lessons, bedtime times you had at camp with your routines, and movie night, our kids. Tell them where you went lives would be slower and saner and what you did. The time you and … emptier. flipped your canoe over and got sopping wet in the lake shouldn’t If you like How to stop it be a secret. Kids love to hear Don’t let worries weigh you about parents’ camp adventures. down. Use them as an opportu- Stay connected. The kids will the magazine nity to confront your own needs be gone but not forgotten. Find for safety, control, and closeness. fun postcards, print pictures of Here’s how: family pets, and collect care- Step back. Anxieties have a way package items to send. Getting you’ll love of sucking you in. Your thoughts mail from home makes kids feel and emotions may be swirling special. Resist the urge to check like a tornado around you. Get in every day: kids need space. the site. out of the eye of the storm and Don’t forget to send supplies so reflect on your feelings. What (ex- your kids can send letters home. actly) are your worries? Write They’ll want to share their expe- them down, so you can face them riences and you’ll treasure their head on. letters forever. Question your assumptions. Anxiety is understandable, but Fears may be fueled by irratio- it shouldn’t stop you from sending Check us out! nal beliefs. Kids don’t suffer seri- kids off to camp. It’s likely that ous malnutrition from week-long many of your cherished child- candy binges. And wearing dirty hood memories involve nature, clothes won’t kill them either. new friends, and time to explore NYParenting.com Concerned your temperamental on your own — summer camp of- child won’t fit in socially? Allow fers all these opportunities and for the possibility she’ll find bud- more. dies to hang out with all on her It’ll be okay if they stay up too own. Don’t let your beliefs limit late, eat burned marshmallows, kids’ potential. or lose their swim goggles in the Where every family matters and Keep goals in mind. Ultimately, lake. Really. parents want kids to become self- Heidi Smith Luedtke is a person- where New York parents find help, reliant, says Donahue, and build- ality psychologist and mom of two ing self-reliance requires parents adventurous kids. She is the author of info and support. do less — not more — for their “Detachment Parenting.” Learn more kids. Camp builds competence at HeidiLuedtke.com.

March 2015 • QUEENS Family 15 HealtH Debating vaccines f your pediatrician sent you a let- ter that said if you didn’t follow I his vaccination schedule, your child could no longer be a patient, would that bother you? Or would it upset you more to know that your newborn was sitting next a family of children who weren’t vaccinated … HealtHy ever? The recent measles outbreak confirmed by the Health Department living has sent not only a flurry of angst Danielle Sullivan to an already overfilled and angry internet, but also poses real ques- tions that parents and even doctors are mulling over. As with many hot parenting debates, there is no easy answer that will appease all groups. A couple of years ago, even be- fore the current measles outbreak was top news, eight pediatricians at a Chicago pediatric office informed their patients by mail that they will “no longer see children whose par- ents refuse to follow the childhood immunization schedule developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics.” Dr. Scott Goldstein, one of the pediatricians who participated, ex- plained why: “All of the available research shows that the safest and most effective way to vaccinate chil- dren is on the schedule set by the CDC and AAP. To go against that schedule goes against proven scien- But the question to do so is not dren, so they are protected. If the tific research and puts patients who simple. Pediatricians are called to parent sitting next me chooses not do follow the schedule at risk.” care for the children, even the chil- to, that’s her business. I highly doubt “I would want my pediatrician to dren (or perhaps, especially the chil- the whole office will be infected just refuse unvaccinated patients. It is dren) whose parents have difficult from taking in patients that haven’t for the safety of all children in the views, or ill-fitted opinions. Pediatri- been vaccinated. I mean, think about practice,” says mother of two, and cian Dr. Sydney Spiesel discusses the how many people you encounter on Staten Island resident, Christina Co- difficulty of the situation in a recent the subway, or coffee shop, or plane. lombo. “If parents choose not to vac- Slate article: Can you safely say that everyone you cinate, then they will have to do the “On the one hand, we profoundly come into contact with has been vac- legwork of finding a doctor who will believe in the value and importance cinated?” take them despite them not following of vaccines. On the other hand, we Does your pediatrician mandate medical advice.” profoundly believe in the value and that you must follow the vaccination It seems that more pediatric of- importance of caring for all children schedule? Would you leave his prac- fices are following suit. In addition, who need us, and some of those tice if he did? Does it bother you to the Wall Street Journal reports that, children have parents who refuse to think your child is sitting next to an “In a study of Connecticut pediatri- vaccinate.” unvaccinated child? Have you ever cians published last year, some 30 Emily Patterson, who lives in the thought about it at all? percent of 133 doctors said they had West Village and is a mom to a Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, asked a family to leave their practice 2-year-old who has just finished up has worked as a writer and editor in the for vaccine refusal, and a recent his set of scheduled shots, says that parenting world for more than 10 years. survey of 909 Midwestern pediatri- she would not want to go to a pe- Sullivan also writes about pets and par- cians found that 21 percent reported diatrician that turned away children enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find Sul- discharging families for the same who need help. livan on her blogs, Just Write Mom and reason.” “I choose to vaccinate my chil- Some Puppy To Love.

16 QUEENS Family • March 2015 Camp Directory

Blue Dolphin Summer www.kewforest.org Camp Offering an idyllic summer for 69-26 Cooper Ave, Glendale children entering grades K-6. The 718-847-6470 or www. children enjoy a full-day program 9 Bluedolphinsummercamp.com a.m. to 4:30 p.m. featuring morn- Blue Dolphin Summer Camp has ings of academics and afternoons something for everyone! Campers of recreation, or a half day of either may enroll for 2-8 weeks, and they option. Academic sessions focus on do not have to be consecutive enrichment in reading, writing, and weeks. Program hours are from math; recreation options range from 7:00am-6:00pm. Bus service is avail- computer lab to tennis to swim- able. ming, cheerleading/dance to martial arts and field trips. For teens, grades A camper’s day consists of sporting 7-12, there’s a Summer Institute and events, arts & crafts, games, swim- C.I.T. program. ming, amusement parks and excit- ing trips. Camper’s ages 3-15 enjoy Register for half- or full-day ses- fun excitement filled programs in sions, by the week or for the full house and off campus. Blue Dolphin eight weeks. Visit our website or call Summer Camp provides a great for information place for campers to enjoy a safe and diverse summer of fun! Our Kimmy Ma ARTStudio camp is licensed by the Department 190-19 Union Turnpike, Fresh of Health. Our counselors consist of Meadow teachers and other professionals in 646-209-9352 or www.kimmyma- the Educational field trained in CPR artstudio.com PRO & First Aid. ARTStudio is dedicated for art If you have been searching for an instructions in paintings and draw- interesting, stimulating, safe, caring, ings. Spring session, now-June, 7 and productive summer program, days a week, for various age and complete with lots of summer fun, ability level learners. Blue Dolphin Summer Camp is the Explore artistic development in answer. Camp is open to both pub- art theory/history and techniques lic and private school students. for after school & weekends. Summer ART Clubs with Mrs. Ma Crayon Box Preschool 7/7-8/13 T/W/TH, ideal for seri- Open HOuse 44-10 192nd Street, Flushing ous independent and responsible Tuesday, March 10th – 4:00pm - 6:00pm 718-888-9341 or www. learners, explore fundamentals crayonboxpreschool.com concepts in fine art. 12:50-3:30PM Saturday, March 14th – 11:00am - 1:00pm We give children a foundation of for age /9-MS/HS, weekly medium Tuesday, March 24th – 4:00pm - 6:00pm education they can take with them based & ability level instructions, throughout their student years. plus Summer Comic 7/12-8/16, (6) Tuesday, March 31st – 4:00pm - 6:00pm Crayon Box sets up a program that Sundays with qualified instructor, is both welcoming and fun, while Ms. Christine 10am-12pm for age stressing the fundamentals of pre- 6-8.5 & 1-3:30pm for age 9+. Fun Field trips school learners. Please visit www.kimmyma-artstu- dio.com for detailed curriculum and Camp Hours: Free The preschool has been educating Mon - Fri 7am-6pm the youngest members of our com- tuition. Tel: 646-209-9352. Before & munity since 1998 and is run by a Curriculum is thoughtfully planned dedicated and professional staff. by Mrs. Ma, Master of ART in the TRANSFORMERS ...... Ages 3-5 After Care They always work with their families School of Education NYU since TRAILBLAZERS...... Ages 6-11 to give them the support and flex- 1996. PIONEERS ...... Ages 12-15 ibility that is needed in today’s fast paced and changing world. The The Learning Tree daily routine is set up to make the 74-15 Juniper Blvd Middle Village children feel secure because when 11379 children feel safe, they are free to 718-899-2020 or www. accept new ideas and concepts. thelearningtree.org The Learning Tree has been servic- Redeemer Lutheran - Glendale 69-26 Cooper Ave. Summer at Kew-Forest ing the community since 1972. Our We accpet A.C.D. & 119-17 Union Turnpike, Forest Hills Middle Village location provides a (718) 847-6470 1199 & T.W.U. Members 11375 safe, nurturing and creative environ- WWW.BLUEDOLPHINSUMMERCAMP.COM 718-268-4667 extension 114 or Continued on page 18 Special Advertising Section March 2015 • QUEENS Family 17 Camp Directory

Continued from page 17 have enjoyed baseball, volleyball, ment. Age appropriate curriculum basketball, gymnastics, dance and and positive social interaction are drama, carnivals, scavenger hunts, the school’s key successful elements. swimming, Olympic week, trips and Nursery and pre-kindergarten for much more. Counselors must meet children 2-5 and afterschool pro- stringent standards and qualifica- grams are available. Summer camp tions and all Directors and Assistant programs are also available for chil- Directors are New York State dren ages 2-14 with swimming on Certified administrators and trained the premises. Please contact us for in CPR, First Aid and Responding Specialized Sports Program more information. to Emergency. The swim program stresses safety and fun. All swim • Gymnastics • Karate • Swimming • Music Queens Zoo Summer instructors are certified lifeguards, Program carefully picked and receptive to • Private Outdoor Pool • Small Groups • Trips camper’s individual needs. 800-433-4149 or www.wcs.org/ • Dance • Arts & Crafts • Free Transportation summer-camps Door-to-door transportation is pro- vided. Summer Camps at the Wildlife Conservation Society provide a Established in 1978 • Ages 4-15 unique chance for children to get up Young People’s Day close & personal with animals from Camp of Queens Reasonable Tuition around the globe without traveling 1-800-856-1043 or www. far from home. queenscamp.com or www.ypdc. Certied Teachers • 2-8 Week Program The Bronx Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, com Queens Zoo, & New York Aquarium Since 1972, our family- run camp Bayside • 718-229-3037 will introduce your child to wildlife & has provided safe, fun-filled sum- wild places through exciting investi- mers for thousands of youngsters. Visit us at: www.worldofdiscovery.org gations, animal encounters, hands- YPDC is accredited by the American on science activities, & crafts. The Camp Association, the New York Zoos & Aquarium offer programs for Camp Directors Association, and is 149-49 Sanford Av. Flushing (646) 224-0959 (347) 844-0126 2 & 3 year olds with their caregiver supervised by licensed teachers and & drop-off day camps for children administrators. in Pre-K (must be at least 4 years The camp’s philosophy is to “grow” BCMC Piano School old) through High School. Teens children intellectually, physically, and • Ages 3 & Up can learn what it takes to be a zoo spiritually in a FUN environment. • Famous Instructors • European Trained keeper, design an exhibit, & more YPDC provides a dynamic, diversi- • Private & Group Piano Class in our 3-week Teen Internship! For fied, and professionally supervised program enabling children to see, • Group Theory Class details & registration visit www.wcs. org/summer-camps or call 800-433- try and experience many activities. 4149. Activities include swimming, sports, BCMC arts & crafts, music & dance, natural /m science, academics, educational & From $170 World of Discovery Day Camp recreational field trips as well as After School many other special events. YPDC 718 228 3037 or www. is located in South Bayside. Door • 2:30 – 6pm/7pm/8pm worldofdiscovery.org • Choice of 1 – 6 Days to door transportation is available World of Discovery Day Camp is • Saturday 8 am – 6 pm at no additional charge. Young designed to stimulate your child’s • Homework Assistance People’s offers programs for chil- • Enrich English & Math imagination and provide an environ- dren ages 4-15. 2- 8 week sessions • Fun Activities/Games ment where kids can just be kids. are available. Ask about our special • Free Snacks Included Since 1977 children ages 4-15 discounts. • Quality Care REGISTER NOW! BCMC Summer Camp • Full & Half Days: 9-4pm • No Charge for Extended Hours Find Family online at • Learning Time/Story Time • Music & Drama Time

Feb Early Bird • Indoor & Outdoor Activities www.NYParenting.com • Exciting Trips/weekly 10% OFF • Choice 2-8 Weeks

18 QUEENS Family • March 2015 Special Advertising Section Kimmy Ma the ARTStudio Learning Tree Annual Art Show & Open House RegistRation open foR summeR Camp All Welcome! SPORTS • FIELD TRIPS • MUSIC • DANCE 3/28–29, Saturday–Sunday, 10am–2pm ARTS & CRAFTS • SWIMMING ON PREMISES Junior Group – Ages 2 to 4 PRIVATE GROUNDS Spring Art (Now–June) Middle Group – Ages 5 to 6 TRANSPORTATION Tuesdays–Saturdays: Age 9+ Young Artist Program Senior Group – Ages 7 to 13 AVAILABLE Sundays & Mondays: Beginners age 6–8 & 8–11

Summer Art Clubs (7/7–8/13) T/W/Th, 6 weeks, 12:50–3:30pm Medium focused & ability level fi ne arts instructions Summer Comic 7/12–8/16, (6) Sundays with qualifi ed instructor, 10am–12pm for age 6–8.5 & 1–3:30pm for Age 9+ Now Registering for

Tuition & program guide available on www.kimmyma-ARTStudio.com FREE UNIVERSAL PRE-K (children born in 2011) Fine arts curriculum is thoughtfully planned by Mrs. Ma Nursery & Pre-K Programs Master of ART in the School of Education, NYU 1996. for September 2015 Kimmyma-artstudio.com Extended Hours 7:00am - 6:30pm Visit online student Gallery, curriculum, schedules & tuition. 74-15 Juniper Blvd. North Middle Village

NION URNPIKE RESH EADOW the 190-19 U T F M , NY 11364 tree learning 718-899-2020 • www.thelearningtree.org 646-209-9352

REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER CAMP Bronx Zoo „ New York Aquarium „ Prospect Park Zoo „ Queens Zoo

On-site water and outdoor play

Enrollment begins for Summer and September 2015 WCS.ORG/SUMMER-CAMPS

(800) 433-4149 WCS Julie Larsen Maher ©

Special Advertising Section March 2015 • QUEENS Family 19 New York International Children’s Film Festival

By Shnieka L. JohnSon academy. Beautifully constructed, “Jellyfish eyes” – Takashi Mu- The country’s slow-motion dance sequences, rakami ather than just taking your and life-altering auditions provide Live action and animation, Japan. largest film kids to the movies, take them a pulse of drama throughout their In Japanese with English subtitles. R to experience a film festival journey, but the film is ultimately the Pop art superstar Takashi Mu- festival for just for them. The country’s largest story of their friendship, disappoint- rakami makes his feature film debut film festival for kids and teens hap- ments, victories, first loves, dreams, with a campy, genre-defying adven- pens right here in New York City. Es- and doubts. ture that mixes lo-fi Japanese di- kids and teens tablished in 1997 New York Interna- Recommended ages: 9 to adult saster movie, new kid-on-the-block tional Children’s Film Festival serves coming-of-age story, and Pokémon- is happening as an Oscar-qualifying event for live- “Belle and Sebastian” – nicolas style anime with a delirious abun- action and animated short films. The Vanier dance of wonderfully imagined magi- right here in four-week event takes place Feb. 27 Live action, France. In French with cal creatures. Setting Murukami’s to March 22, showcasing more than English subtitles. fantastical animated designs in an 100 films from around the world. A story of friendship, courage, otherwise live action film, “Jellyfish New York City Throughout the festival, there are and loyalty set against the jaw-drop- Eyes” tells the story of Masashi, a filmmaker question and answer ses- ping scenery and alpine panoramas young boy who moves to a sleepy sions, filmmaking workshops, and of the Haute Maurienne-Vanoise re- town in the Japanese countryside in audience voting. Best of all, it’s all gion of France. Sebastian lives with the wake of a natural disaster. kid friendly! his grandfather, César, in a vertig- Recommended ages: 9 to adult With more than 3,000 short film inous mountain village, where he entries, selected films are organized crosses paths with a giant and dirty “Landfillharmonic” – Brad all- by the following categories: Pyrenean Mountain Dog who the good and Graham Townsley • S h o r t s For Tots (Ages 3 to 6) locals have dubbed “the Beast” for Documentary, USA. In Spanish with • S h o r t Films One (Ages 5 to 10) allegedly killing their livestock. But English subtitles. • S h o r t Films Two (Ages 8 to 14) Sebastian sees something good in The world generates more than a • F l i c k e r Lounge: For Teens & the misunderstood canine and be- billion tons of garbage a year, much Adults Only (Ages 12 to adult) friends the animal, renaming her of it ending up in poor rural commu- • H e e b i e Jeebies: Spooky, Freaky “Belle.” Their budding friendship is nities like Cateura, Paraguay, where & Bizarre (Ages 10 to adult) put to the test when Nazis march more than 2,000 families survive by • G i r l s’ POV (Ages 10 to adult) into town looking to root out a band separating garbage for recycling. The festival ends with a fun, cul- of resistance fighters who are guid- When a teen music program there minating event, the Closing Night ing Jewish refugees to neighboring can’t afford new instruments, a gar- Celebration, where award winners Switzerland. bage picker named Cola fashions a are announced and there is a screen- Recommended ages: 7 to adult violin from an empty oil tin — thus ing of the “Best of the Fest” short inspiring the Recycled Orchestra. films. “hocus Pocus alfie atkins” – The film follows the young musicians The festival itself is a non-profit Torril kove as they reach even greater heights, organization that offers year-round Animation, Norway. In English. performing concerts in the US, Eu- engagements. If you have a future Academy Award-winning direc- rope, and Asia — even sharing the filmmaker on your hands, investi- tor Torill Kove’s first feature film is a stage with heavy metal super-group, gate the workshops for kids that refreshingly warm and intimate tale Metallica. take place during public school mid- based on beloved children’s book Recommended ages: 8 to adult winter and spring breaks as well as character Alfie Atkins. Seven-year- summer camps. old Alfie dreams of owning a dog, “Lou!” – Julien neel The 2015 Festival’s schedule of but his father insists that he is too Live action, France. In French with films, many of which your kids will small for such a big responsibility. English subtitles. surely enjoy, is detailed below. Undaunted, Alfie finds an unlikely Twelve-and-a-half-year-old Lou ally in George, a kindly magician lives alone with her absurdly im- “Ballet Boys” – kenneth elve- who performs tricks for the neigh- mature mother, Emma. Her mom bakk borhood kids and has just adopted has been in a funk lately, eating junk Documentary, Norway. In Norwe- a puppy of his own. Lovingly ani- food in her pajamas, playing video gian with English subtitles. mated with thoughtful, honest char- games, and generally behaving more “Ballet Boys” takes us through acter interactions, “Hocus Pocus” like a teen than her on-the-cusp-of- four years in the lives of three young offers an emotionally and visually adolescence daughter. But all this dancers. The only boy dancers in a rich cinema experience for audi- changes with arrival of the new bo- world of girls, they strive to get into ences of all ages. hemian neighbor, Richard, who ig- Norway’s most prestigious ballet Recommended ages: 3 to 8 nites her goofy mother’s romantic

20 QUEENS Family • March 2015 Netherlands, 1943. Best friends Tuur and Lambert spend their time dreaming up adventures and discov- New York International ering secret passages in the caves and forests that surround their close- knit village. Homemade wooden pis- tols serve as props in their playful war games, as they make light of the Children’s Film Festival conflict that is building all around them. When new girl Maartje enters their social circle, the boys’ friend- By Shnieka L. JohnSon academy. Beautifully constructed, “Jellyfish eyes” – Takashi Mu- ship faces a challenge typical of ado- The country’s slow-motion dance sequences, rakami lescence — and Lambert begins to ather than just taking your and life-altering auditions provide Live action and animation, Japan. feel more and more like the third largest film kids to the movies, take them a pulse of drama throughout their In Japanese with English subtitles. wheel. “Secrets of War,” with its lush R to experience a film festival journey, but the film is ultimately the Pop art superstar Takashi Mu- backdrops and strong emotional per- festival for just for them. The country’s largest story of their friendship, disappoint- rakami makes his feature film debut formances from three young leads, film festival for kids and teens hap- ments, victories, first loves, dreams, with a campy, genre-defying adven- expertly balances the universality of pens right here in New York City. Es- and doubts. ture that mixes lo-fi Japanese di- shifting young friendships with the kids and teens tablished in 1997 New York Interna- Recommended ages: 9 to adult saster movie, new kid-on-the-block moral complexity of war. tional Children’s Film Festival serves coming-of-age story, and Pokémon- Recommended ages: 9 to adult is happening as an Oscar-qualifying event for live- “Belle and Sebastian” – nicolas style anime with a delirious abun- action and animated short films. The Vanier dance of wonderfully imagined magi- “Wolfy, The Incredible Secret” right here in four-week event takes place Feb. 27 Live action, France. In French with cal creatures. Setting Murukami’s — Grégoire Solotareff and Eric to March 22, showcasing more than English subtitles. fantastical animated designs in an Omond 100 films from around the world. A story of friendship, courage, otherwise live action film, “Jellyfish Animation, Belgium/France. In New York City Throughout the festival, there are and loyalty set against the jaw-drop- Eyes” tells the story of Masashi, a (Above) A still from “Ballet Boys.” English. filmmaker question and answer ses- ping scenery and alpine panoramas young boy who moves to a sleepy (Left) “Mune” is a contestant in this Though they’re from opposite sions, filmmaking workshops, and of the Haute Maurienne-Vanoise re- town in the Japanese countryside in year’s festival. ends of the food chain, Wolfy and audience voting. Best of all, it’s all gion of France. Sebastian lives with the wake of a natural disaster. Tom (a wolf and rabbit, respectively) kid friendly! his grandfather, César, in a vertig- Recommended ages: 9 to adult the heir apparent is passed over, are best friends. Wolfy has always With more than 3,000 short film inous mountain village, where he and the title Guardian of the Moon believed he was an orphan, until one entries, selected films are organized crosses paths with a giant and dirty “Landfillharmonic” – Brad all- is bestowed on the waif-like Mune, a day a gypsy tells him that his mother by the following categories: Pyrenean Mountain Dog who the good and Graham Townsley small and frightened forest faun who is still alive in the distant dynasty • S h o r t s For Tots (Ages 3 to 6) locals have dubbed “the Beast” for Documentary, USA. In Spanish with seems wholly unprepared to take on of Wolfenberg, Land of the Wolves. • S h o r t Films One (Ages 5 to 10) allegedly killing their livestock. But English subtitles. such a weighty responsibility. Despite his fear, Tom agrees to ac- • S h o r t Films Two (Ages 8 to 14) Sebastian sees something good in The world generates more than a Recommended ages: 5 to adult company his friend as they venture • F l i c k e r Lounge: For Teens & the misunderstood canine and be- billion tons of garbage a year, much far from their peaceful countryside Adults Only (Ages 12 to adult) friends the animal, renaming her of it ending up in poor rural commu- “Satellite Girl And Milk Cow” – home. They arrive in the midst of • H e e b i e Jeebies: Spooky, Freaky “Belle.” Their budding friendship is nities like Cateura, Paraguay, where Chang Hyung-yun Carne Festival — a grand meeting & Bizarre (Ages 10 to adult) put to the test when Nazis march more than 2,000 families survive by Animation, South Korea. In Korean of the world’s most renowned carni- • G i r l s’ POV (Ages 10 to adult) into town looking to root out a band separating garbage for recycling. with English subtitles. vores — and Wolfy’s quest for self- The festival ends with a fun, cul- of resistance fighters who are guid- When a teen music program there Festival award-winning “Wolf discovery quickly turns into Tom’s minating event, the Closing Night ing Jewish refugees to neighboring can’t afford new instruments, a gar- Daddy” director Chang Hyung-yun quest for survival. This beautifully Celebration, where award winners Switzerland. bage picker named Cola fashions a has created a wholly original, ex- animated film is based on the wildly are announced and there is a screen- Recommended ages: 7 to adult violin from an empty oil tin — thus interests. Neel has turned the French colored backgrounds, and the com- uberantly outrageous, sci-fi love popular French children’s book se- ing of the “Best of the Fest” short inspiring the Recycled Orchestra. comic and animated TV series into ic’s traipsing storylines translated to story unlike anything before it. An ries “LouLou” from writer and direc- films. “hocus Pocus alfie atkins” – The film follows the young musicians a quirky, mom and daughter buddy the screen with just the right amount orbiting, out-of-commission female tor Grégoire Solotareff. The festival itself is a non-profit Torril kove as they reach even greater heights, movie, with vibrant and brilliantly of absurdity and humor. satellite picks up a lovelorn pop Recommended ages: 5 to 10 organization that offers year-round Animation, Norway. In English. performing concerts in the US, Eu- kitschy bubble-gum production de- Recommended ages: 5 to 10 song on its radio antenna and de- engagements. If you have a future Academy Award-winning direc- rope, and Asia — even sharing the sign and plenty of cringe-worthy, scends to Earth to try to discover Additional information: filmmaker on your hands, investi- tor Torill Kove’s first feature film is a stage with heavy metal super-group, awkward comedic situations. “Mune” (3D) – Alexandre He- who could be the source of such New York International Children’s gate the workshops for kids that refreshingly warm and intimate tale Metallica. Recommended ages: 8 to adult boyan and Benoît Phillippon heartfelt emotions. On the way, it Film Festival, Feb. 27–March 22. Sched- take place during public school mid- based on beloved children’s book Recommended ages: 8 to adult Animation, France. In English. is transformed into the titular Sat- ule: www.gkids.com winter and spring breaks as well as character Alfie Atkins. Seven-year- “Moomins On The Riviera” – A world of wonder, magic, and my- ellite Girl, complete with Astroboy- Locations: DGA Theater [110 W. 57th summer camps. old Alfie dreams of owning a dog, “Lou!” – Julien neel Xavier Picard thology is the setting in this sumptu- like rocket shoes and weapon-firing St., (212) 258–0800, www.dga.org] The 2015 Festival’s schedule of but his father insists that he is too Live action, France. In French with Animation, Finland/France. In Eng- ously animated CGI adventure about limbs, while the balladeer in ques- IFC Center [323 Sixth Avenue, (212) films, many of which your kids will small for such a big responsibility. English subtitles. lish. a land divided between the realms tion — a loser 20-something play- 924–7771, www.ifccenter.com] surely enjoy, is detailed below. Undaunted, Alfie finds an unlikely Twelve-and-a-half-year-old Lou Sixty years ago, when Finnish au- of day and night. As legend has it, ing at an open mic in a coffee shop Scholastic Theater [557 Broadway, ally in George, a kindly magician lives alone with her absurdly im- thor and illustrator Tove Jansson the first Guardian of the Sun threw a — meets the fate that befalls all (212) 343–6215, www.scholastic.com] “Ballet Boys” – kenneth elve- who performs tricks for the neigh- mature mother, Emma. Her mom launched the Moomin comic strip, harpoon into the cosmos and roped broken-hearted lovers: he is turned SVA Theatre [333 W. 23rd St., (212) bakk borhood kids and has just adopted has been in a funk lately, eating junk little did she know it would reach 20 the sun to bring light and warmth to into a farm animal (albeit one who 592–2980, svatheatre.com] Documentary, Norway. In Norwe- a puppy of his own. Lovingly ani- food in her pajamas, playing video million daily readers in more than 40 all of humanity. Then the Guardian can walk around in a poorly-fitting Village East Cinema [189 Second gian with English subtitles. mated with thoughtful, honest char- games, and generally behaving more countries. In celebration of her 100th of the Moon lured the moon to the human suit). Ave., (212) 529–6998, www.villageeast- “Ballet Boys” takes us through acter interactions, “Hocus Pocus” like a teen than her on-the-cusp-of- birthday, French director Xavier Land of Darkness to provide a bal- Recommended ages: 8 to adult cinema.com] four years in the lives of three young offers an emotionally and visually adolescence daughter. But all this Picard brings Jansson’s carefree and ance to the sun and supply the world • • • dancers. The only boy dancers in a rich cinema experience for audi- changes with arrival of the new bo- adventurous Moomin family to life, with dreams. At a momentous cere- “Secrets Of War” – Dennis Bots Shnieka Johnson is an education con- world of girls, they strive to get into ences of all ages. hemian neighbor, Richard, who ig- with delicately animated characters mony to appoint the two new guard- Live action, Netherlands. In Dutch sultant and freelance writer based in Norway’s most prestigious ballet Recommended ages: 3 to 8 nites her goofy mother’s romantic set within beautifully designed and ians, an accident seems to occur; with English subtitles. Manhattan.

March 2015 • QUEENS Family 21 Parenting

Parents

helPing Dear Sharon, We have a 3-and-a-half Parents year old and are having Sharon C. PeterS, Ma some difficulty getting him to toilet train. Do you have any words of wisdom? Toilet-training tips Dear Parents, in the planning process. Encourag- port each other to stay calm and Strong-willed 3 year olds can make ing your child to help decorate a clear throughout the process. Al- toilet training challenging. Here are potty chair, select training pants, though difficult, parents who can some strategies that can help. or talk through other details that stick to their plan and stay calm in Before tackling toilet training, it is can help him feel part of the project the face of their child’s mistakes or important to sort out when children rather than the subject of someone upset usually are more effective. (and their parents) are ready for toi- else’s plan. It can also help to tell a child let training. Even when a child is a Concrete rewards can increase the ahead of time that the end of diapers little older than usual there may be chances of success as well. Parent is coming. Use a confident, calm, and underlying factors that need to be and child can create a rewards chart succinct tone to explain your ideas taken into consideration. If a child is together and choose the prize for to the child — he’ll be more likely having a hard time at school, getting completing the goal. If there have to believe that change is on the way. used to a recent move, adjusting to already been a series of failed at- Of course, children often complain if the birth of a new sibling, working tempts at toilet training it can help given advance warning, but having through complex developmental de- to offer small rewards for each ac- a chance to “get ready” and let off lays, or handling other challenges, complishment along the way rather steam beforehand can help the ac- then it might make sense to wait for than just working towards a “super tual process go well. an easier time to begin training. It is duper” prize when “accidents” are Toilet training is much harder to often wise to delay things if parents over. (Three-and-a-half year olds who do when everyone involved is tense are overwhelmed or busy as well. have avoided training for a while often or upset. It can be useful to get When you are ready to tackle train- need a “super duper” reward and mo- some especially exciting games or ing, find a relatively pressure-free tivator to lower their resistance.) toys to play with during the process. time to focus on the project (prob- Before starting, many parents The family can play together, take ably at least a week). Pick a period agree on a “plan of action” with their a break for toilet time, and then re- when it is possible that all adults in- partner. As every child has his own sume playing until the next break is volved can stay focused on the “mis- unique personality, the specifics of needed. sion” and able to avoid distractions plans may greatly vary. I know of Parents often inform their child’s — social occasions, work pressures, families who have found it useful to school of their efforts so that teach- extended family obligations, etc. have their child go pantless through ers can encourage and reinforce It can also help to involve children this period while others have vis- their efforts. An “all hands on deck” ited the bathroom every 30 minutes. approach can make a bigger impact. Sharon C. Peters is a mother and director of Parents helping Parents, Moms and dads should sort through Even if this is not the best time 669 President St., Brooklyn (718) 638–9444, www.PhPonline.org. an approach that could work for for your son to finish toilet training, I If you have a question about a challenge in your life (no issue is too big their little one. guarantee that he will eventually get or too small) e-mail it to Dear Sharon at [email protected]. Probably the most important part the hang of it, probably much sooner of any plan is an agreement to sup- than it feels to you right now.

22 QUEENS Family • March 2015 AdviceAdvice Death, the law, and stored sperm & eggs I stored my eggs and have fertilized after the genetic parent’s death. embryos stored at a reproductive fertil- The statute includes various pre- ity clinic. What happens to my genetic requisites for the writing and pro- material if I get sick or when I die? vides a sample form that would be- Ask An hoove anyone to follow closely. It he advancement of assisted also provides mechanisms for revok- Attorney reproductive technology has ing the consent. Alison Arden Besunder, T transformed the meaning of A related bill is working its way esq. parenthood and biological relation- through the New York Legislature to ships in a “family.” address this issue in the context of Many states have struggled with marital relations (more particularly, the complex legal issues presented by divorce proceedings). The bill would children who are conceived before a amend the Domestic Relations Law parent’s death, but born after the par- and enact provisions relating to the ent’s death. Even more vexing is the execution of written forms, prior to question of children who were con- assisted reproductive technology ceived after a genetic parent’s death services, for consent and directives using that parent’s genetic material. grappled with whether a child con- for the transfer, use, and disposition State law dictates inheritance ceived by in vitro fertilization with of cryopreserved embryos or gam- rights, Gov. Cuomo recently signed sperm of a predeceased child fell etes. It would provide for notice prior a law to address the issue of in- within the class of persons contem- to the implementation of the terms of heritance rights of a posthumously plated by the trust. The court held such directives. As of Jan. 28 the bill conceived child in New York. The that the children born with a par- was referred to the judiciary. legislation allows New York to join ent’s consent is entitled to the same This new legislation will help guide 20 other states that have addressed rights as a natural-born child. Ac- the courts in addressing the needs of this thorny issue revolving around cordingly, held the court, the after- children, parents, donors, and other reproductive technologies. born child was included in the class beneficiaries of the estate, as well as Children conceived before a par- of beneficiaries of the trust. preventing abusive use of genetic ma- ent’s death but born after her death Gov. Cuomo then enacted a sec- terial to improperly gain access to an inherit in intestacy from that genetic ond law under which a posthumous estate’s assets. That said, it remains parent as if they were born in her child of a genetic donor (called a unclear how the new legislation will lifetime. The law also states that “genetic child” in the statute) will impact a specific bequest in one’s last “posthumous children are entitled be recognized as a distributee of the will and testament of such genetic to take in the same manner as if liv- genetic parent if one of four condi- material; or whether such a bequest ing at the death of their ancestors,” tions are met: would be deemed to comply with the if “a future estate is limited to chil- • T h e genetic parent expressly bills. It also does not address posthu- dren, distributees, heirs or issue…” consents in writing to the use of the mous use of cord blood, which can be The only case in New York dealing genetic material for posthumous con- used to treat certain conditions. It is with the issue arose in 2008 and ad- ception and authorizes a specific per- still critical to consider your genetic dressed whether a provision dealing son to make decisions about its use. material and take steps to ensure that with out-of-wedlock children encom- • T h e parent must give notice to your intentions are carried out. passed posthumously conceived the personal representative of the Alison Arden Besunder is the found- children. In that case, a person cre- estate within seven months of the is- ing attorney of the law firm of Arden ated seven trusts in 1969. He died suance of letters. Besunder P.C., where she assists new in 2001 survived by two of his three • T h e authorized person must re- and not-so-new parents with their estate children. His predeceased son had cord the consent-authorization with planning needs. Her firm assists clients left behind preserved semen for his the Surrogate’s Court within seven in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Nas- wife’s use. His wife later gave birth months of the genetic parent’s death. sau, and Suffolk Counties. You can find to two sons. The grantor’s trusts • T h e child must be in utero within Alison Besunder on Twitter @estatetrust- provided for his descendants to be 24 months of the genetic parent’s plan and on her website at www.besun- beneficiaries of the trusts. The case death or born no later than 33 months derlaw.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 situ- 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 (2) may not be used in connection with promoting, marketing or recommending to another person any transaction or matter addressed herein.

March 2015 • QUEENS Family 23 Relationships Divorce after age 50 anny DeVito and Rhea Perl- some of them are directly related to • T h o s e with a college degree ex- man, Tipper and Al Gore, “the unique events and experiences perience a considerably smaller risk D Arnold Schwarzenegger and characterizing” the “life course of divorce compared to those with Maria Shriver. What do these couple stages” of middle age (50-65) and lower levels of education. have in common? In addition to fame older adulthood (65+). During these • T h e rate of divorce is highest and fortune each of these couples stages, “many couples confront among the unemployed. ended their respective marriages empty nests, retirement, or declining • O l d e r adults who are not in the when the spouses were 50 years of health, which can pose considerable labor force (presumably because Divorce & age or older. Such splits — couples challenges for marital adjustment. they are retired) have the lowest who divorce after age 50 — are re- These turning points can prompt divorce rate. Separation ferred to as “gray” divorces. The spouses to reassess their marriages, In addition to the study’s find- Lee Chabin, esq. number of gray divorces is growing, ultimately leading them to divorce,” ings — of which there are even more and not only among the rich and write Brown and Lin. — the authors discuss the “implica- celebrated. Other findings include: tions for individuals, their families, A 2013 study “The Gray Divorce • Middle-aged adults are experi- and society at large.” Revolution: Rising Divorce among encing a higher rate of divorce than It says it is likely that divorce has Middle-aged and Older Adults, 1990 older adults. “negative consequences, particu- – 2010,” authored by Susan L. Brown • M e n and women 50 and over are larly for those who did not want the and I-Fen Lin, both in the sociology divorcing at very similar rates (9.8 divorce or who are economically dis- department of Bowling Green State divorced men per 1,000 married per- advantaged or in poor health.” University, found that the divorce sons; 10.3 women divorced per 1,000 “Divorced older adults no longer rate among adults ages 50 and older persons). have a spouse on whom to rely and doubled between 1990 and 2010. • T h e r e is some racial and eth- are likely to place greater demands Roughly one in four divorces in 2010 nic variation in the risk of divorce on their children,” write the authors. occurred to persons ages 50 and among those ages 50 and older, with These children may be asked to older, and the rate of divorce was 20.5 divorced blacks per 1,000 mar- serve as caregivers in lieu of the ab- 2.5 times higher for those in remar- ried persons, 11.3 divorced Hispan- sent spouse: riages versus first marriages, while ics per 1,000 married persons, and “The strain of such intense obliga- the divorce rate declined as marital nine divorced whites per 1,000 mar- tions may weaken inter-generational duration rose. ried persons). ties … Adult children are particu- There are many factors and cir- • T h e divorce rate also differs by larly unlikely to provide care to their cumstances that may contribute economic resources — including divorced fathers.” to gray divorces. The study says education. “Some older adults may not have children available nearby to pro- vide care,” and so “the rise in later life divorce may place additional burdens on society at large, as di- vorced individuals will be forced to turn to institutional” assistance rather than look to the family for support. The study, which the authors ac- knowledge has limitations, is some- what alarming. But having this information will surely help society deal with the consequences of gray divorce, which are likely to become more apparent over the coming years. New York City and Long Island-based divorce mediator and collaborative di- vorce lawyer Lee Chabin helps clients end their relationships respectfully and without going to court. Contact him at [email protected], (718) 229– 6149, or go to http://lc-mediate.com/. Follow him on Facebook at www.face- book.com/lchabin. Disclaimer: All material in this column is for informa- tional purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

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March 2015 • QUEENS Family 25 How to be a better cheerleader for your young athlete

By Denise yearian kids and make sure he is in a safe en- tant to have proper nutrition and hy- What mom vironment and is being instructed in dration. An appropriate diet includes hildren who participate in appropriate ways — that the coaches getting adequate complex carbohy- and dad sports programs can maxi- aren’t too tough on him and are giv- drates, a lean protein source, and C mize their potential physi- ing lots of positive reinforcement. plenty of fruits and vegetables. Dur- can do to cally, mentally, emotionally, and so- Volunteer to help. One of the best ing dinner, your child’s plate should cially. But it doesn’t just happen. ways to know your child’s coaches is have 50 percent fruits and vegeta- Although good coaching and league to volunteer. Ask if the team needs bles, 25 percent whole grains, and support their administration are important, noth- an assistant coach or administra- 25 percent protein. Think ahead on ing can replace knowledgeable, in- tor, offer to spearhead a fund-raising how you can provide healthy food kids’ athletic terested, and supportive parents. So event, or sign up to bring snacks for options in the car. Also, make sure how can moms and dads make the the kids after the game. Or volunteer your child is staying hydrated. If the endeavors most of their athletic endeavors? to be the team journalist. Bring your team isn’t taking a water break dur- Here are 10 tips: camera and take pictures of the kids ing practice, speak up. recognize game rules. The more at practices and games. Then create Live it out. Be a good role model you know about the sport your child an online photo album for the entire for your kids, so your words and is playing, the calmer and more at team. This can encourage communi- actions align. Workout on a regular ease you will be. Some rules for a cation and unity among team mem- basis and eat healthy, and encour- given sport may have been modified bers, their families, and coaches. age your kids to do the same. When due to age and developmental level. Communicate a life lesson. Com- you are in the stands, keep a posi- So when you sit on the sidelines, it munication is a key role in sports tive attitude and cheer everyone on, will help you know why a call was or parenting, especially when it comes even the other team if it has made a wasn’t made. to talking with your children about good play. assess developmental mile- life lessons such as winning well, Be a good cheerleader. Make it stones. Be aware of the developmen- dealing with defeat, cooperation, to as many games and practices as tal milestones for the activity, so you perseverance and the like. For ex- you can, offer encouragement and can ascertain if your child is physi- ample, talk about how players have support, and look for little ways to cally and mentally ready to take on to work together to protect the goal, let your child know you are his great- the sport (see below). and how it’s important to pass the est fan. After weekend game days, assist with goal setting. Help ball, particularly if another player is do something special — get a bite to your child set realistic goals for him- near the goal. Also, discuss the need eat, take in a movie, or go swimming. self. Just make sure they are goals to be patient with everyone, because In everything, let him know you are he can own for himself. The more we all make mistakes. his biggest fan. personal goals he sets and achieves, Listen up. Listen to your child’s the more successful he will be and frustrations and excitements. Some- Developmental the more fun he will have. times he doesn’t want you to solve milestones for Collaborate with the coach. his problem, he just needs you to children in sports Coaches may be a good source for listen. Preschool. Many children at this providing drill pointers, but collabo- Maintain proper nutrition. For age are beginning to get involved in rating with them has even greater children who are involved in rigor- organized sports. To see if your child value. Know who’s coaching your ous athletics, it is particularly impor- is ready, assess his basic skills such

26 QUEENS Family • March 2015 coordination and have a better con- cept of team effort. This is also a time when relative age factor comes into play and those who mature physically and mentally may seem to have an advantage. If not handled properly, it may put extra pressure on the mature child to perform, which could lead to burnout. Children who mature later may have to work harder on skill devel- opment and may not initially get their coaches’ attention, but given time and encouragement they often catch up with their counterparts. Because children mature at differ- ent rates, it is important to continue to emphasize the process, not the results, and to praise effort instead of outcome. This is especially im- portant as competition elevates. Look for programs that adhere to this philosophy and make sure the entire team has an opportunity to participate in play, regardless of skill level. Middle school. This is a time when children are beginning to master skills and techniques. This can also be a time when league politics, controlling parents, and abusive coaches may dominate an activity, though it happens earlier. If the child feels as if he has lost control over his activity or is being pressured by others, he may be in danger of burnout. Kids at this age are better able to understand and handle the pres- sure of competition, but perfor- mance and self-esteem issues are closely tied now and can affect how youth feel about themselves in other facets of life. They may also need encouragement and informa- tion to deal with the awkwardness of changing bodies and minds.

Resources for parents Books: “Home Team Advantage: The Crit- ical Role of Mothers in Youth Sports” by Brooke de Lenche “How to Win at Sports Parenting: Maximizing the Sports Experience for you and your Child” by Jim and Janet Sundberg “101 Ways to be a Terrific Sports Parent: Making Athletics a Positive as running, throwing, and tracking velopment and emphasize fun over tion. Ask him and he will more than Experience for Your Child” by Joel objects in motion. Also consider competition. likely say to have fun, be with his Fish and Susan Magee his attention span. Is he focused Early elementary. By now, most friends, and learn a new skill. Make enough to learn from group instruc- children have had at least one expe- sure this philosophy lines up with Websites: www.sportsparenting. tion? Most children aren’t ready to rience with an organized sport. The your child’s coach and league’s in- org, www.momsteam.com, www. participate in organized sports until emphasis should continue to be on struction. Let him sample different nays.org they are around 4 or 5. Even then, skill development and having fun, sports activities until he finds one practices should be short and allow not on competition. This is a good he truly enjoys. Denise Yearian is the former editor time for free play. Programs should time to analyze what you want your Late elementary. At this age, chil- of two parenting magazines and the focus on the fundamentals of skill de- child to get out of sports participa- dren are beginning to get a grip on mother of three children.

March 2015 • QUEENS Family 27 CalendarmARCH Photo by Andrew Kelly

It ain’t just golf. assist, and more. Blast off with a game of mini Rocket Park Mini Golf, March Blast off! golf on Opening Day at the Rocket 1 through Nov. 30 from 10 am to Park Mini Golf Park at the New 6 pm on Saturday and Sundays. York Hall of Science on March 1. Tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for Children tee-off on this fun children and seniors, plus museum golf course and blast off to learn admission. about science concepts including New York Hall of Science [47-01 propulsion, gravity, escape veloc- 111th St. in Corona, (718) 699–0005 X ity, launch window, gravitational 353, www.nyscience​.org]

28 QUEENS Family • March 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar

Submit a listing This calendar is dedicated to bringing our readers the most comprehensive list of events in your area. But to do so, we need your help! Send your listing request to queens­[email protected] — and we’ll take care of the rest. Please e-mail requests more than three weeks prior to the event to ensure we have enough time to get it in. And best of all, it’s FREE!

Sun, March 1 In Queens Little Makers: New York Hall of

Science, 47-01 111th St.; (718) 699– Photo by Paul Martinka 0005 X 353; www.nyscience.org; 10:30 am; $8 per family plus museum admission ($5 members). St. Patrick’s Day in the Rockaways Block printing allows children ages 18 months and older to carve designs Grab your shillelagh, don your County St. Patrick’s Day Parade where awards and presentations into foam blocks and use colorful ink kilt, and tune up the bagpipes for Committee, kicks off at 1 pm. Line will be made by the grand Marshall to create one-of-a-kind prints. the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade up begins at Beach 130th Street and and committee members. Lunar New Year Celebration: on March 7 — where everyone is Newport Avenue and travels down St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Queens Zoo, 53-51 111th St.; (718) invited to be Irish. Newport Avenue across Beach March 7 at 1 pm. Free. 271–1500; queenszoo.com; 11 am–4 The 40th annual St. Patrick’s 116th Street ending at the review- Kick off Beach 130th Street and pm; Free with zoo admission. Day Parade, hosted by the Queens ing stand on Beach 105th Street, Newport Avenue in the Belle Harbor. Come celebrate the Year of the Sheep with with fun activities in- cluding a meet the sheep; a puppet fascinating nocturnal raptors. All ages Visitors are invited to tour the gal- for a “going green” workshop series show; “Hao Bang Ah, Sheep,” scav- welcome. lery and then sketch what they see. that will benefit YOUR future! This enger hunt to search for other ani- No reservations necessary and suit- program is made possible by a grant “Tales of New York”: Adelphi mals presented in the Lunar zodiac; able for all ages. from National Grid. lesson in calligraphy; Chinese The- University Performing Arts Center, 1 atre Works dance show; traditional South Ave.; (516) 877–4000; www. dragon puppet parade; and make a [email protected]; 4 pm; $20. Mon, March 2 Wed, March 4 paper-lantern craft to take home. Best of Broadway series presents In Queens In Queens the music that made Broadway great. Workshop: Flushing Town Hall, 137- Crafternoon: Rosedale Public Li- Teen talk: Central Library, 89-11 35 Northern Boulevard; (718) 463– Further Afield brary, 144-20 243rd St. at 145th Av- Merrick Blvd.; (718) 990–0700; www. 7700; www.flushingtownhall.org; 1 Brooklyn Bo- enue; (718) 723–4440; www.queen- queenslibrary.org; 4 pm; Free. pm; $10 ($8 members). Winter Bird Stroll: tanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave., slibrary.org; 4 pm; free. Teens ages 14-19 discuss current Learn about the ancient art of cal- at Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn; (718) Make a fun project. For all ages. events, race relations, bullying, rela- ligraphy and welcome in the Year of tionships and more. Come and have 623–7220; www.bbg.org; 10 am–11 Read Across America Day: the Ram. your say! am; Free with garden admission. Barnes and Noble, 23-80 Bell Blvd.; Propeller Powered Cars: New Fun for the whole family spot (718) 224–1083; www.barnesandno- York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th where the winter birds are. ble.com; 7 pm; Free. Thurs, March 5 St.; (718) 699–0005 X 353; www. Celebrate the “Eye-Guy” and read Cosmic creations: Brooklyn Chil- In Queens nyscience.org; 1:30 pm; $5 plus mu- “The Cat in the Hat” by Dr. Seuss. seum admission. dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. Origami Workshop: Far Rockaway Children and their parents learn the at St. Marks Avenue, Brooklyn; (718) Public Library, 1637 Central Ave. at powers of the simple rubber band 735–4400; www.brooklynkids.org; Tues, March 3 Mott Avenue; (718) 327–2549; www. and create a car that can go the dis- 11:30 am and 2 pm; Free with mu- In Queens queenslibrary.org; 3:30 pm; Free. tance. Recommended for children 7 seum admission. Mr. Ron, origami artist, teaches Young Engineers: Queens Library years and older. Learn about astronomy and the all ages the art and craft of creating for Teens, 2002 Cornaga Ave.; (718) planets, stars, and space with Dr. Neil beautiful and interesting objects from Owls: Alley Pond Park, Cross Island 471–2573; www.queenslibrary.org; 3 Degrasse Tyson, a contemporary Afri- folded paper. Pkwy & Grand Central Pkwy; (718) pm; Free. can-American astrophysisist. Make a 217–4685; www.nycgovparks.org; 4 Young Engineers: Queens Library shooting star to take home. Technology experts from the Beam pm; Free. Center in Brooklyn use hands-on ac- for Teens, 2002 Cornaga Ave.; (718) Rangers guide you to the best wild- Drop in Drawing: Brooklyn Bo- tivities to demonstrate how wind, 471–2573; www.queenslibrary.org; 4 life viewing spots in the urban jungle. tanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave., solar, tidal, and other renewable pm; Free. Winter is a great time of year to ob- at Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn; (718) energy sources create electricity to Technology experts from the Beam serve and enjoy owls. Learn about 623–7220; www.bbg.org; 1 pm to 3 power lights, motors, cellphone char- Center in Brooklyn use hands-on ac- the basic biology and habits of these pm; Free with garden admission. gers, and lots of other things. Join us Continued on page 30 March 2015 • QUEENS Family 29 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 29 tivities to demonstrate how wind, solar, tidal, and other renewable energy sources create electricity to power lights, motors, cellphone char- gers and lots of other things. Join us for a “going green” workshop series that will benefit YOUR future! This program is made possible by a grant from National Grid.

Sat, March 7 In Queens “Once Upon a Cloud”: Barnes and Noble, 23-80 Bell Blvd.; (718) 224–1083; www.barnesandnoble. com; 11 am; Free. Picture book of the month. St. Patrick’s Day parade: Rock- away Beach, Newport Avenue and Beach 129th Street; 1 pm; Free. Enjoy the 40th annual parade held at the beach. Workshop: Flushing Town Hall, 137- 35 Northern Boulevard; (718) 463– 7700; www.flushingtownhall.org; 2 pm; $10 ($8 members). Asian fan dance lesson presented by Song Hee Lee, a Korean dancer, and Ling Tang, a Chinese dancer, will Photo by Kate Hesler teach simple fan dance routines from both Korean and Chinese traditions. No dance experience necessary and Puppets get a giant surprise all levels welcome. Bring your own folding fan or borrow one. The Swedish Cottage Mario- ways have brought misfortune 10:30 am and noon; Wednesdays, nette Theater hosts “Jack and the upon Jack and his mother, but 10:30 am, noon, and 2:30 pm; Sat- American Sign Language: Cen- tral Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd.; (718) Beanstalk,” now through June 28. with help from friends, he risks urdays and Sundays, 1 pm. Tickets 990–0700; www.queenslibrary.org; This fresh retelling of the his life to take back what the are $7 for children under 12; $10 2 pm; Free. Swedish Cottage original produc- Giant stole. for all others. If you have always wanted to give tion presented by the City Parks The play is approximately 45 Swedish Cottage Marionette The- this beautiful language a try, this is Foundation takes Jack on an en- minutes long and is suitable for ater [W. 79th Street and West Drive your opportunity! We will teach fin- chanting adventure up a magical children 3 to 9 years old. on the Upper West Side; (212) 988– gerspelling, numbers, beginning con- beanstalk. “Jack and the Beanstalk,” now 9093;www.cityparksfoundation.org/ versations, and proper sign language Jack encounters the notori- through June 28, showtimes are arts/swedish-cottage-marionette-the- etiquette. This course is designed for ous giant Milford whose thieving Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, atre]. beginners with little or no known knowledge of the language. Space is very limited. 0005 X 353; www.nyscience.org; pm; Free. Further Afield Wed, March 11 10:30 am; $8 per family plus museum Use bubble wrap and paint to cre- Mike Carbo’s Big Apple Con: In Queens admission ($5 members). ate your own masterpiece! Penn Plaza Pavilion, 401 Seventh Ave. Team Science fun: Flushing Pub- Concert: Rego Park Public Library, at 33rd Street, Manhattan; www. It’s an ooey, gooey fun event with lic Library, 41-17 Main St. at Parsons 91-41 63rd Dr.; (718) 459–5140; 6:30 nycbm.com; 10 am – 6 pm; $20 ($10 polymers. Children can mix every- Boulevard; (718) 661–1200; www. pm; Free. children). queenslibrary.org; 4 pm; Free. day household ingredients to make Folk singer Marc Belitsky shares tra- Celebrate the 20th anniversary of polymers like silly putty and oobleck. Have fun and learn with the Dis- ditional music. the city’s longest-running comic book covery Team as we explore the won- Recommended for ages 18 months sci-fi/fantasy convention, where col- ders of science and math with ex- lectors and enthusiasts will find hun- and older. periments, activities, and projects for Fri, March 13 dreds of vendor tables, top comics, children in elementary and middle Open Mic for poets: Central In Queens celebrities, pro wrestlers, dealers, school. panel discussions, costume contests, Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd.; (718) Spelling Bee: Rosedale Public Li- and more. 990–0700; www.queenslibrary.org; brary, 144-20 243rd St. at 145th Av- Thurs, March 12 enue; (718) 723–4440; www.queen- 2 pm; Free. In Queens slibrary.org; 3 pm; Free. Sun, March 8 Beware the poets of March, as Invigorate your brain with a spell- Bubble Wrap Painting: Corona Open Mic regulars take the stage as ing bee, for children and teens! In Queens Public Library, 38-23 104th St. be- Little Makers: New York Hall of featured readers to share their poetic tween 38th and 39th streets; (718) Crafting: Queens Village Public Li- Science, 47-01 111th St.; (718) 699– talent. 426–2844; www.queenslibrary.org; 4 brary, 94-11 217 St. at 94th Avenue; 30 QUEENS Family • March 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar (718) 776–6800; www.queenslibrary. The first Go-Green musical features org; 3:30 pm; Free. performers from USA, Italy, Spain, Use household materials to make a France, and Italy, as well as Broad- working kaleidoscope. way dancers and acrobats. Wonderful artistry, stylish costumes and props made by plastic, paper, metal and Sat, March 14 special effects (3-D mapping) pop, In Queens rock music for an “interactive” and “Mustache Baby”: Barnes and No- unforgettable performance. ble, 23-80 Bell Blvd.; (718) 224–1083; Craft day: Queens Botanical Gar- www.barnesandnoble.com; 11 am; den, 43-50 Main Street; (718) 539– Free. 5296; www.queensbotanical.org; 1 Read with Mustache Baby and pm–3 pm; Free. make a craft. Learn all about the equinox and Storybook discovery: Voelker celebrate spring. Orth Museum, 149-19 38th Ave.; Further Afield (718) 359–6227; www.vomuseum. org; 11 am–noon; $5 per family. National Developmental Dis- Share stories about leprechauns abilities Awareness Month and shamrocks, explore our garden, Event: Pacplex Sports Recreation and craft your own rainbow with a and Educational Complex, 1500 Paer- pot of gold. daget Ave. at Paerdaget 13th Street, Brooklyn; (347) 831–5688; ajones. Fire making skills: Alley Pond [email protected]; www.daretobe- Park, Cross Island Pkwy & Grand Cen- Art in the Garden extraordinary.org; 12:30–3 pm; $25 tral Pkwy; (718) 217–4685; www. adults, $15 kids, free for kids 6 and nycgovparks.org; 11 am; Free. Let the spring begin with artist traditional craft techniques by under. Urban Park Rangers teach skills and Paul Lin’s workshop, Art in the using natural materials includ- Games, entertainment, and photo tips and tricks that will enhance your Garden: Botanical Therapeutic ing, petals, feathers, twigs and shoots with Olympic gold medalist knowledge of the natural world, and Art, on March 28 at the Queens dried leaves. Suitable for fami- and TNA professional wrestler Kurt might just save your life. Learn primi- Botanical Garden. lies with children older than 10 Angle. tive and modern methods for making fire safely and responsibly while ex- The workshop coincides with years. Spring Eggstravaganza: Long ploring the great outdoors. Recom- the artist’s work, The Botani- The workshop will be on March Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis mended for ages 8 years and older. cal Therapeutic Arts collection, 28 from 1 to 4 pm. Materials fee Ave. at West Road, Long Island; (516) that is currently on display in plus admission to the garden. 224–5800; www.licm.org; 6 pm – 9 Hands-on History – You’ve Got the Gallery until April 12. Queens Botanical Garden [43-50 pm; $10 ($8 members). Mail!: King Manor Museum, 150-03 Hop on over for a special night Jamaica Ave.; (718) 206–0545, ext. Lin teaches his methods of Main St. in Flushing, (718) 539–5296; with Peter Rabbit and explore egg 13; www.kingmanor.org; Noon–3 blending fine art principals with www.queensbot​anical.org] decorating. Plus, a performance by pm; Free. the national Circus Project. Write a letter with a quill and ink, just like Rufus King! Hear a true story Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave. at clothing. about a dog that helped postal work- W. Road, Long Island; (516) 224– Sun, March 22 ers in the 19th century. Take a mu- 5800; www.licm.org; 2 pm to 4 pm; Tues, March 17 In Queens seum tour and see a mailbox used in Free with museum admission. Jamaica 200 years ago. For children Little Makers: New York Hall of Celebrate the day and make finger Further Afield of all ages. Science, 47-01 111th St.; (718) 699– puppets. St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Kick off, 0005 X 353; www.nyscience.org; Taylor 2 workshop and perfor- 44th Street and Fifth Avenue, Man- 10:30 am; $8 per family plus museum mance: Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Sun, March 15 hattan; 11 am; Free. admission ($5 members). Northern Boulevard; (718) 463–7700; Come on down to the world-fa- Exploring Circuitry. Children will re- www.flushingtownhall.org; 1 pm; $7 In Queens mous parade, kick up your heels, lis- purpose everyday objects like paper ($4- Free for members with 2:15 show Little Makers: New York Hall of ten to the bagpipes and be Irish for clips, pipe cleaners, and cardboard ticekts). Science, 47-01 111th St.; (718) 699– the day. into illuminated works of art. In the The interactive dance workshop 0005 X 353; www.nyscience.org; process, they’ll explore the basics of represents the wide range of athleti- 10:30 am; $8 per family plus museum circuitry with foil, coin batteries and cism, humor and emotion found in Sat, March 21 admission($5 members). colorful LEDs. Paul Taylor’s work. For ages 10 and In Queens up. In Sink, Float, Flink, children ages Crafting: Shops at the SkyView 18 months and older experiment with “Edmund Unravels”: Barnes and Center, 40-24 College Point Blvd.; Family day: Queens Botanical Gar- a variety of materials to find out what Noble, 23-80 Bell Blvd.; (718) 224– (718) 886–3800; 2 pm–4 pm; Free. den, 43-50 Main Street; (718) 539– sinks, floats or flinks (neither floats 1083; www.barnesandnoble.com; 11 Join Queens Botanical Garden on 5296; www.queensbotanical.org; 2 nor sinks). They’ll also design their am; Free. Level B, where they will be making a pm–4 pm; Free. own boat to sail in their bathtubs. Special story time where children fashionable bracelet using materials Get a taste of the HSBC Children’s learn all about friends and family. that come from plants! Supplies are Garden program as we plant seeds Nature hike: Albert H. Mauro limited. while learning about gardening and playground, Park Drive East and 73rd “Sempreverde-Evergreen- the environment. Plus, have a chance Avenue Terrace; (718) 352–1769; 11 Siempreverde-Sempervirent”: to register early for the spring session am; Free. Queens Theatre, Flushing Meadows Fri, March 27 which begins on April 4. Take a stroll with the Rangers and Corona Park; Box Office (718) 760– learn all about the local flora and 0064; Administration (718) 760– Further Afield Further Afield fauna. Recommended for older chil- 0686; www.queenstheatre.org; 1 pm “The Adventures of Perseus”: Lucky Leprechauns: Long Island dren. Light hike, wear appropriate and 3 pm; $25 ($22.50 member). Continued on page 32 March 2015 • QUEENS Family 31 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 31 ties. For children 14 years and older Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 only. Davis Ave. at W. Road, Long Island; Further Afield (516) 224–5800; www.licm.org; 10:15 am and noon; $9 with museum From Here to There: Brooklyn admission ($7 members), $12 theater Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn only. Ave. at St. Marks Avenue, Brooklyn; Presented by the Experiential The- (718) 735–4400; www.brooklynkids. ater Company, explore the legend org; Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am–5 and myth of Zeus’s son Perseus. Hand pm, Now – Sun, May 10; Free with puppets, and bunraku-style mario- museum admission. nettes. For children 5 years and older. This innovative exhibit teaches the science of how things move by land, sea and air. Visitors can heat up and Sat, March 28 launch a hot air balloon, operate an In Queens authentic canal lock system to move a boat and experiment with pneu- “Duck and Goose”: Barnes and matics, pulleys, hydraulics, and levers Noble, 23-80 Bell Blvd.; (718) 224– to move objects mechanically. 1083; www.barnesandnoble.com; 11 am; Free. Ice skating: Lefrak Center in Pros- Come along and read with Duck pect Park, Parkside and Ocean av- and Goose, then do a fun activity. enues, Brooklyn; (718) 594–7439; [email protected]; www.brook- Botanical art project: Queens lynice.org; Tuesdays – Thursdays, Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main Street; ‘Renewal’ for spring 11 am–6 pm, Fridays, 11 am–8 pm, (718) 539–5296; www.queensbotani- Saturdays, 10 am–9 pm, Sundays, 10 cal.org; 1 pm to 4 pm; Materials fee Amanda Selwyn Dance The- tional expression and offer many am–6 pm, Now – Tues, March 31; $6 plus admission to gardens. atre opens its 2015 season with in-roads for audiences to make ($8 on Sat. and Sun) plus $6 skate The works of artist Paul Lin will be a world-premier performance of meaning for themselves. rental. on display in the Gallery until April “Renewal” on March 13, 14, and “Renewal” on March 13 and 14 Families have a great time twirling 12. He blends fine art and traditional and skating and enjoying the rink. crafts with natural materials, includ- 15. at 7:30 pm and March 15 at 3 pm. ing petals, feathers, twigs, and dried This production features a se- Tickets are $25. Recommended Sundays at the Museum: Nassau leaves. Lin will be hosting a workshop ries of shorts that offer fresh and for older teens. County Museum of Art, 1 Museum and teaching his technique. Suitable vibrant movements, athleticism, BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Dr. at Rt. 25A, Long Island; (516) for children older than 10 years. energy, and balance. Center [199 Chambers St. and Har- 484–9337; www.nassaumuseum. org; Sunday, March 1, 1 pm; Sunday, Each short highlights signa- rison Street in Tribeca, (212) 220– Further Afield March 8, 2 pm; Sunday, March 22, 1 ture structures and elements. 1460; http://tribecapac.or​g/amanda- “The Adventures of Perseus”: pm; Sunday, March 29, 1 pm; Sunday, Her dance moves activate emo- selwyn-danc​e-theater]. 11:30 am and 2 pm. Long Island Chil- April 5, 1 pm; Sunday, April 12, 1 pm; dren’s Museum. See Friday, March 27. Sunday, April 26, 1 pm; Free with mu- seum admission. 10:15 am and noon. Long Island Chil- derland in 3D”: New York Hall of Create, collaborate, and converse Sun, March 29 dren’s Museum. See Friday, March 27. Science, 47-01 111th St.; (718) 699– each week and make a fun project. In Queens 0005 X 353; www.nyscience.org; Needlework and games: Lefferts Weekdays, 11 am & 2 pm, Saturdays Little Makers: New York Hall of Historic Homestead, 452 Flatbush Long-running and Sundays, 1 & 3 pm,; $6 adults; $5 Science, 47-01 111th St.; (718) 699– Ave. between Empire Boulevard and children. 0005 X 353; www.nyscience.org; In Queens Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn; (718) 10:30 am; $8 per family plus museum Science Playground: New York In this 3D movie, travel to the Gala- 789–2822; www.prospectpark.org; admission($5 members). Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St.; (718) pagos archipelago to meet giant Saturdays and Sundays, 1–3 pm,; $3. half-ton tortoises and marine iguanas Fun, Fuzzy Felting. Children ages 699–0005 X 353; www.nyscience. Join in with staff and make a small 18 months and older discover the org; Weekdays, 9:30 am–5 pm, Satur- that spit sea-salt from their noses, sampler and play board games. days and Sundays, 10 am–6 pm,; $5 hunt fishes with the colorful blue- craft of felting using natural fibers Ice skating school: Lefrak Center plus museum admission. footed boobies, and swim with tiny and various tools and materials. in Prospect Park, Parkside and Ocean Children are encouraged to ex- penguins. Queens Theatre, avenues, Brooklyn; (718) 594–7439; “Junie B Jones”: plore science through slides, see- Flushing Meadows Corona Park; Box Happy Hour: Flushing Public Library, [email protected]; www.brook- saws, climbing webs, a water play Office (718) 760–0064; Administra- 41-17 Main St. at Parsons Boulevard; lynice.org; Mondays and Wednesdays, area, sandboxes, and more, weather tion (718) 760–0686; www.queen- (718) 661–1200; www.queenslibrary. 4–6:30 pm, Now – Tues, March 10; permitting. stheatre.org; 1 and 3 pm; $14 ($12.60 org; Fridays, 4 pm, Now – Fri, March Free. members). Rocket Park Mini Golf: New York 27; Free. Instructions, fitness, homework Based on the Barbara Park book, Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St.; (718) Teens enjoy time in the library with help and lots more. Preregistration this musical tells the tale of a first- 699–0005 X 353; www.nyscience. friends. required. org; Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am–6 grader’s experiences. Laugh along Digital Media workshop: Mu- Art Kids: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- pm,; $6 (adults,) $5 (children and se- with Junie as she joins a kickball seum of the Moving Image, 36-01 seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks niors,) plus museum admission. team, stubs her toe and meets new 35th Ave.; (718) 777–6888; www. Avenue, Brooklyn; (718) 735–4400; friends. Golfers of all ages can learn about movingimage.us; Friday, Feb. 27, 4 www.brooklynkids.org; Fridays, 11:30 key science concepts such as propul- pm; Friday, March 13, 4 pm; Friday, am and 2:30 pm, Now – Fri, March 6; sion, gravity, escape velocity, launch March 27, 4 pm; Friday, April 17, 4 Free with museum admission. Tues, March 31 window, gravitational assist, and pm; Friday, May 1, 4 pm; Free. Children explore a new style of art more! Further Afield Teens hang out and experiment and discover the artistic process while “The Adventures of Perseus”: “Galapagos – Nature’s Won- with different media making activi- developing artistic skills. 32 QUEENS Family • March 2015 theMarketplace

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March 2015 • QUEENS FaMily 33 HealtHy eating Boning up on health s long as their chil- Sheats, director of dietetics dren are growing programs at St. Catherine A normally, most par- University in Minnesota, con- ents are largely unconcerned cerned. about the health of their “Many parents think kids’ bones. After all, osteo- they’re equivalent, but they’re porosis is for old people, not equal at all,” says Sheats. right? “Dairy milk contains nine es- Good sense Not so fast. According to a sential nutrients. The white recent report by the Ameri- beverages made with plant eatinG can Academy of Pediatrics, sources don’t necessarily con- Christine M. PaluMbo, rD osteoporosis may have its tain these nutrients.” roots in the bone mass ac- Children who drink alterna- quired in childhood and ado- tive milks are twice as likely lescence. to have low vitamin D levels, Lifestyle factors — con- according to a new study pub- suming enough calcium and lished in the Canadian Medical vitamin D, plus weight-bear- Association Journal. ing activity — all factor in. “In Canada, as well as the It’s no secret that physical U.S., vitamin D levels vary in activity has changed for many non-cow’s milk beverages,” says children compared to a genera- Dr. Jonathon Maguire of the Uni- tion ago. Recess is short, phys- versity of Toronto. ical education is often weak, Vitamin D is a fat-soluble hor- and kids don’t necessarily walk mone necessary for calcium ab- to school or play outside with sorption and utilization. Without their friends. it, only 10 to 15 percent of dietary The Academy report urges calcium is absorbed. kids to exercise to strengthen Another nutrient of concern to their bones. Jumping, skipping, Sheats is calcium. running, and dancing are some “Often, these milk substitutes enjoyable weight-bearing exer- have calcium added. But there’s cises. Some sports that include a fair amount of data that the form these are rowing, tennis, volleyball, of calcium is not absorbed as well karate, soccer, basketball, gymnas- choosing plant-based milk bever- as dairy milk. It probably has to do tics, and cheerleading. ages in lieu of dairy milk because with the fact that milk has lactose of perceived health benefits, milk and vitamin D. Often, these milks nutrition allergies, or lactose intolerance. are lactose free.” Today’s parents are increasingly And this has Debra Barone The pediatricians’ report does not recommend calcium supple- ments. i beg your parsnips olive oil and lay them on the baking Other nutrients of concern high- sheet. Lightly sprinkle with cracked lighted in the report include pro- serve these matchstick fries as a pepper on both sides. Bake the fries tein and sodium. Diets too low in super tasty and healthy alternative to for about 25 minutes, flipping them protein or too high in sodium tend French fries. they’re fun to eat and over halfway through. they are ready to reduce the body’s retention of packed with flavor. when they are cooked completely, calcium. serves 2 (1⁄2 cup per serving) crispy, and slightly brown. as you Finally, caffeine, found in energy INGREDIENTS: allow them to cool, sprinkle with drinks, colas, and coffee drinks, pepper and salt to taste. olive oil cooking spray is also linked to decreased bone mass, the study found. 1 large parsnip (about 9 inches long, NUTRITION FACTS: 50 calories, 0 g Christine Palumbo is a Naperville- 5 ounces), peeled total fat and cholesterol, 7 mg sodi- registered dietitian nutritionist who is a Cracked black pepper um, 12 g carbohydrates, 3 g dietary fiber, 3 g sugars, 1 g protein. Percent new Fellow of the American Academy salt to taste daily Value: Vitamin C 19 percent, of Nutrition and Dietetics. She’s grateful DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to calcium 2 percent, iron 2 percent. she did plenty of weight bearing activity as a kid. Follow her on Twitter @Palum- 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet long, thin strips, using a very sharp Used with permission from The Nutrition Twins’ with parchment paper. to make knife, or a mandoline if you have Veggie Cure by Tammy Lakatos Shames, RDN & Lys- boRD, Facebook at Christine Palumbo “matchsticks,” cut the parsnips into one. spray the parsnip sticks with sie Lakatos, RDN. Nutrition, or Chris@ChristinePalumbo. com.

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