May 2015 Manhattan forArts kidsFREE Family Where Every Child Matters Here’s to Moms • Prioritizing personal time • Stepmoms on Mother’s Day • Why a woman is never ‘just a mom’
Montessori in the 21st century
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2 Manhattan Family • May 2015 Manhattan Family May 2015
Features columns 6 Your time 14 FabuLYSS Finds The art of carving personal space out of by Lyss Stern your own life By Christina Katz 30 Good Sense Eating by Christine M. Palumbo, RD 8 Stepmom on Mother’s Day It’s okay to take time for yourself 31 Ask an Attorney By Gayla Grace By Alison Arden Besunder, Esq. 10 Common sense on Charter 32 Just Write Mom Schools by Danielle Sullivan New Yorkers consider what they have to 40 The Book Worm gain from the movement By Terri Schlichenmeyer By Tammy Scileppi 42 New & Noteworthy 12 Just a mom By Lisa J. Curtis As we celebrate Mother’s Day, taking back the role of mother By Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman calendar 16 Dual roles 34 May Events Singer stars on Broadway and at home By Tammy Scileppi special sections 12 20 Giving birth at 50 The new frontier in assisted reproduction 18 Arts Directory By Allison Plitt 24 Montessori Directory 22 Montessori’s future sense 41 Party Planners Building 21st-century skills for more than a 41 The Marketplace century By Martha Haakmat 26 Thanks — at 70 words per minute She taught me typing in high school — and I finally got a chance to express my gratitude By Patrick Hempfing 26 Room for debate The New York City Urban Debate League 34 gives students a voice — and a lot more By Shnieka L. Johnson 28 ‘Angels’ among us Musical uses song to shed light on African-American history By Shnieka L. Johnson
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May 2015 • Manhattan Family 3 letter from the PublIsher Winners again in 2015 arenting Media Association and gives readers good perspective on read for parents. (PMA) gave out 301 Editorial the books in question. The voice is A BRONZE went to our much ap- P and Design Competition and clear and the reviews are enjoyable and preciated columnist Danielle Sullivan General Excellence awards to parent- informative. for Child Development & Parenting ing magazines at a banquet on Febru- Our columnist and Attorney, Ali- Issues. The judges comments: “Just ary 28, the climax of the three-day son Arden Besunder won the GOLD Write Mom” offers a nice mix of com- PMA Annual Convention, this year for the category Family Matters. The mon-sense advice and encouragement held in Baltimore, MD. There were 630 judges comments: This is a very infor- mothers will appreciate. The writing on me as I was give the Distinguished entries for this year’s competition. mative story about parents preparing is clear and thoughtful, and provides a Member of the Year Award at PMA. I PMA’s Editorial and Design Awards their wills in case something happens welcome glimpse into a real mother’s was surprised and delighted. Here I am Competition recognizes excellence before their children become adults. It experiences. with the sitting President and my good in journalism, photography and de- is usually something many parents do A final award went to our front friend Sarah Taylor of Metro Family in sign achieved by publishers, editors, not think about until their children are cover stock photo for our October Oklahoma City. What a thrill! writers and designers at member near adulthood or have moved out. The 2014 Teen Issue and congratulations It’s spring and lovely. Have a great publications. writer did a wonderful job of providing went to our Art Director Leah Mitch. month and a wonderful Mother’s Day! Happily, for yet another year we expert opinion and useful information The judge’s comments: The simple I know I will. Being a mom and loving it came home with the GOLD. Our con- to help parents navigate what can be a background and sweet expression im- is what brought me to this work and to tributing writer and Mom in Queens, difficult process. mediately catch attention. The colors the wonderful satisfaction I feel every Allison Plitt, was honored with a GOLD Another GOLD went to our colum- are harmonious, and the cover is bal- day in this role. Award for a series of interesting book nist Lyss Stern for Family Fun ideas anced. The minimal orange draws read- Thanks for reading! reviews. The judges comments: These and interest going on around town. ers to the lead tease, which is placed reviews are reported in-depth, and they The judges comments: This column is next to the girl’s face. succeed in providing a lot of informa- filled with the writer’s voice and a con- It is such an honor to work with all tion about the books in question. The nection to her readers. It’s got good tips the fine writers, designers and sales writer uses extensive background de- for finding fun, family outings and loca- personnel on our team. I’ve always Susan Weiss-Voskidis, tails and solid reporting to build up to tions around the city. The examples and said it’s a labor of love and indeed it Publisher/Excutive Editor an authoritative and supported opinion stories from the writer make this a fun is. Love was also personally bestowed [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, calendar Jay Pelc, Stephanie Stellacio, Shanika Stewart (718) 2602523 art director: Leah Mitch
Web designer: Sylvan Migdal The acceptance of advertising by New York Parent- New York Parenting Media has been recognized graPhic designers: Arthur Arutyunov, ing Media does not constitute an endorsement of for editorial and design excellence by PMA. Raymond Cho, Mauro Deluca, Yvonne Farley, the products, services or information being adver New York Parenting Media is published monthly Earl Ferrer, Mariel Perez, Cheryl Seligman tised. We do not knowingly present any products or by New York Parenting Media/CNG. Subscription services that are fraudu lent or misleading in nature. rate is $35 annually. Reproduction of New York Editorial inquiries, calendar information, advertising Parenting Media in whole or part without writ Managing editor: Vince DiMiceli rates and schedules and subscription requests may be ten permission from the publisher is prohibited. addressed to New York Parenting Media, One Metro All rights reserved. Copyright©2015 Readership: assistant editor: Courtney Donahue tech Center North, 10th Floor, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. 220,000. 2012 circulation audits by CAC & CVC. coPy editors: Lisa J. Curtis, New York Parenting Media can also be reached by Shavana Abruzzo calling (718) 2604554, emailing family@cnglocal. calendar editors: Joanna Del Buono, com or by visiting our website, NYParenting.com. Danielle Sullivan Join the conversation on Facebook. 4 Manhattan Family • May 2015 Ethan J. They’ll return home from camp with stories to tell. Make sure everything you pack for camp returns back home too. Label your kids’ gear with the Limited Edition Camp Label Pack from Mabel’s Labels. These UV resistant, waterproof labels are perfect for clothes, shoes, toiletries, than J backpacks and more. So now the memories made won’t be E . the only thing that comes home from camp this summer.
Special o er: Order online at mabelslabels.com Save 10% on the or by phone at 1-866-30-MABEL. Limited Edition Camp Label Pack. 6ɈLY]HSPK\U[PS1\S` *V\WVUTH`IL\ZLKVUS`VUJLOHZUVJHZO Use this code ]HS\LJHUUV[ILJVTIPULK^P[OV[OLYVɈLYZVYWYVTV[PVUZHUKPZUV[]HSPK at checkout: towards taxes, express shipping, discounted products, purchases made through fundraisers or Write Away! Labels. MFStories10
Winston Preparatory School
Summer Program
Education for the Individual
A unique individually designed program aimed to develop:
Reading Comprehension Study Strategies
Decoding and Spelling Writing
Organizational Skills Math
th th Small class sizes for students in 4 through 12 grades
After-school activities include basketball, art, music, yoga,
photography, acting, computing, and dance
One-on-one classes and independent study program available during July and August
June 26 – July 24, 2015
126 West 17th Street New York, NY 10011 646-638-2705 ext. 688 [email protected] applications available online at www.winstonprep.edu
May 2015 • Manhattan Family 5 introduction of e-mail, letter writing is becoming a lost art form. When you write by hand, it’s something special. Take your time, speak from your heart, and rediscover forgotten parts of yourself that your faithful Your time friend always remembers. Start your letter with, “Remember that time By Christina Katz own life for yourself is a healthy ne- we…” and enjoy memory lane. The art of cessity. Best-selling author of “The Get what you need. Attending a ow come other moms always Artist’s Way,” Julia Cameron says, like-minded support group is vital carving seem to “have it all” and still “We lose ourselves because we are when you need extra help. Whether H have time to work out, read afraid of being selfish, but when we you are trying to quit a bad habit, the latest best-sellers, and spend turn around and take care of our- grieving the loss of a loved one, or personal time with their friends while you selves, we actually become much gathering with other busy moms to seem to be scrambling to keep up happier and more generous.” share strategies, the wide variety space out of with the dishes, the laundry, and Here are 12 self-nurturing activi- of groups available can suit every your daily taxi service? ties to choose from that blend well need. Check your local phone book The truth is, making time for your- with your everyday commitments. for a complete listing of resources in your own life self is an art, and like every art, it Most can be squeezed into a busy your area. requires practice. If you don’t take week, during naptime, into the morn- your playful side. While signing time to rest and rejuvenate, eventu- ings or evenings, or while the kids your children up for those enriching ally you won’t have a self to worry are busy with an activity: evening and weekend classes, don’t about, because that’s how busy you heart on paper. Cameron recom- forget to sign yourself up, too. Many will become with everyone else’s mends three pages of longhand writ- programs offer separate classes for concerns. ing every day. Can’t do three whole children and adults at the same time. Even if you fear the guilt you imag- pages? Just do what you can. For Yes, you are allowed to do some ine will come with making time for moms, any kind of journaling can be things without your kids in tow. In yourself, carving out space in your illuminating and constructive. fact, it’s good for you. Move it, move it. Shake your groove Melt into the table. After you thing any time you need a quick atti- drop the kids off for school or sports, tude change. Shut the blinds. Take you might head to the local spa for a off your shoes. Put on your favorite massage. If you have time, a 10-min- dance music and get down. Dance ute hot tub or steam bath will in- your heart out for 10 minutes. You’ll crease the overall relaxation effect. emerge ready for anything. Treat yourself once in awhile! Girl-time. What could be better your very own OM. In the west, than walking and talking with an- meditation can be walking, writing, other busy mom? Walking is better or even dancing. Check out the book than doing lunch because it accom- “Meditation Made Easy” by Lorin plishes two goals at once: connect- Roche. You’ll discover that medita- ing and exercising. Make it a stand- tion simply means developing your ing date if you possibly can. capacity for rich experience. Why Make a “treasure map.” Ac- not invent your own practice? cording to Shakti Gawain in her art appreciation. Give yourself book, “Creative Visualization,” “A a full hour to wander a museum or treasure map is an actual, physical local gallery, soaking in the energy picture of your desired reality. It is and appreciation of other people’s valuable because it forms an espe- genius. Consider becoming a mem- cially clear, sharp image, which can ber and visiting regularly. then attract and focus energy into Feel the burn. Exercise is sound your goal.” advice for everyone, but especially So, if you really want that new job, for stress-weary moms. If you need flourishing garden, or bigger home, help getting motivated, enroll in a get out your scissors, old magazines, fun class like kickboxing, tae-bo, or and glue, and create your dream on karate. Spinning, Jazzercize, and paper first. Or try Pinterest.com, an Bikram yoga are also great for your online social network where mem- health. bers share images. Most importantly, enjoy yourself. and away you go! Nothing beats The more you schedule you-time browsing the bookstore or library to into your hectic schedule, the hap- get ideas for future family vacations. pier you will become. You deserve Instead of a trip to Disney, check it, mom! out outdoor activities like sailing, Author and freelance journalist Chris- climbing, or spelunking. On tina Katz is always on the lookout for second thought, check out new ways to make time for herself. Her that trip to Disney, as well. latest book is “The Art of Making Time Kids are only kids once. for Yourself, A Collection of Advice for “Dear susan.” With the Moms.”
6 Manhattan Family • May 2015 FUN FOR ALL! Programs & Events May through October
Evolution Enrichment Center Summer Day Camp
Find something wonderful to do with your family every day! Free Programs & Events start May 1st. We have Art programs for every age, Basketball, Chess, Frisbee, Yoga, Soccer, Volleyball, Tai Chi & much more! Visit BPCPC’s website for details at www.bpcparks.org.
Featured Events in May | May 1: Sunset Singing at Wagner Park | May 3: Tour of Irish Hunger Memorial with designer Brian Tolle | May 9: Cuban Family Dance featuring “Pepito” Gómez | May 9: Stories for All Ages, with Laura Simms | May 16: Go Fish! Music by Rani Arbo & daisy mayhem̬VKLQJ ELUGZDWFKLQJ | May 17: Family Art Tour & Workshop at The Real World | May 29: Friday Nights for Teens Full Day (8 am – 6 pm) Ages 2-5 • June 29 – August 29 Register now for Explorer’s Club, Gardening Club, Tennis Lessons Flexible Options • Meals & Snack Included and Art Portfolio Summer Intensive for Teens. Outdoor Play Every Day Batteryy Park City Parks Conservancyy Inquiries by phone 212-375-9500 or email: [email protected] www.bpcparks.org 212-267-9700 38 Delancey St., 2nd Floor (Entrance at Forsyth St.) • New York, NY 10002
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May 2015 • Manhattan Family 7 place of worship wearing a beautiful corsage, signifying the important role you play as a stepmom. Take pride in participating in your stepchildren’s lives as an additional parent. • G i v e yourself the gift of relax- Stepmom ation with a good book, time at the movies, or a day at the spa with a girlfriend. Eat at your favorite res- taurant, and tell your family you’ll be taking the day off from chores. Pam- per yourself in whatever way feels on Mother’s Day special to you. Mother’s Day doesn’t have to be By Gayla Grace let you know how much you mean to a difficult day for stepmoms. If you It’s okay to them. A host of variables play into create expectations of how you want hat’s a stepmom to do how a stepchild reacts on Mother’s your stepchildren to honor you, it take time for on Mother’s Day? Do we Day. The length of the marriage, the will result in disappointment. But W insist that honor be be- age of your stepchildren, the bio- if you choose to create your own stowed upon us? Do we create ex- logical mom’s behavior, and the en- special day, you’ll make memories yourself pectations of what our stepchildren vironment in your home contribute that leave you feeling blessed to be a should do for us? Do we allow the to your stepchild’s behavior. If your stepmom. So go ahead — plan your biological mom to get all of the atten- stepchildren honor you, embrace own celebration! You deserve it! tion for the day? the offering. But if they choose not Gayla Grace treasures her role as Mother’s Day can be a hard day to, don’t take it personally. mom and stepmom to five children, for stepmoms, because it reminds us Here are a few suggestions to help ages 14-30. She loves to encourage step- of the time and energy we invest in you enjoy the day, regardless of what families through her website and blog at our stepchildren that might include your stepchildren do. Pick one or www.stepparentingwithgrace.com. little reward. And if our stepchildren two, or construct one of your own, to do try to show their appreciation, it create a day that will leave you feel- can be an awkward and insincere ef- ing special for the valuable role you fort, usually prodded by their father. offer your stepfamily: If you play an active role as a step- • S p e n d Saturday night at a bed- mom, you deserve some recognition and-breakfast and wake up Sunday for your efforts. That doesn’t mean morning to a scrumptious breakfast you’ll get it from your stepchildren. prepared for you. Re-connect with Sometimes children feel it dishonors your spouse as you reminiscence their mom to show appreciation to and celebrate the good things hap- their stepmom on Mother’s Day. It’s pening in your stepfamily. okay, however, to ask your spouse to • F i n d another stepmom who’s honor and acknowledge you for your having a difficult time and spend the efforts with his children. afternoon with her. Encourage her I’ve learned to enjoy Mother’s efforts and talk through her chal- Day with no expectations from my lenges. Laugh together stepchildren. If they offer a gift or and affirm one an- choose to honor me in some way, other. Find positive I’m thrilled. But even if they don’t, I ways to offer your remind myself it’s a privilege to take support on an on- part in shaping another child’s life going basis. and affirm myself for what I offer. I • A b a n d o n your know my husband appreciates the house and spend role I play, and we’ll celebrate the the day at a nearby day together. lake, beach, bike Some stepchildren love to recog- path, or hiking nize their stepmom on this special trail. Absorb the day and will make a sincere effort to beauty of nature while you count your blessings in Stepparenting resources your life. Set goals Books: Web: with your spouse The Smart Stepmom by Laura www.stepmommag.com Step- that will help you Petherbridge and Ron L. Deal mom Magazine become more con- Stepmonster by Wednesday www.smartstepfamilies.com nected in your step- Martin www.stepparentingwithgrace. family such as regu- The Courage to be a Stepmom com lar game nights, step- by Sue Patton Thoele www.LauraPetherbridge.com mom-stepdaughter shop- The Smart Stepfamily by Ron ping dates, or movie L. Deal nights as a family. • A t te n d your favorite
8 Manhattan Family • May 2015 WeekdayThe School ST. BRIGID SCHOOL at Riverside Church ST.A Catholic, BRIGID Privatenroll Elementary SCHOOLow School EducatingE Students PreK 3n to 8th Grade! IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE Nursery Program for 2 Year Olds Summerside Camp 2015 OPEN HOUSE
Registration for the Summerside Camp program is under way. Information and registration forms are available: Summer enrichment at SBS ✓ ONLINE: www.wdsnyc.org/ SESSION I: June 15–26 pages/summerside-camp SESSION II: June 29–July 10 ✓ CONTACT: Tricia Pool at (closed 7/3) Summer On 7th SESSION III: July 13–24 [email protected] Every Pre-K 3 - Grade 8 ✓ CALL: 212-870-6743 for Register for one, two or all sessions TuesdayJune 22-August 21 - 7:30am to 5:30pm 9am-7pm more information Mini Camp for Full Camp for Breakfast & Lunch Included BE SURE TO SAVE A SPACE! 2’s & young 3’s: 3–6 year-olds: AirEvery Conditioned ClassroomsWe offer a completely free, 8:45am–12:30pm 8:45am–2:30pm Register by May 1, 2015 AcceptingSign Thursdayup soon • fullSpace day, fouris limited! year old program Applications 9am-12pm for Fall 2015Call: 347-903-8783Come • www.stbrigidschoolny.com see... all St.Brigid’s has to offer! 490 Riverside Drive • New York, NY 10027 Summer Enrichment program185 East is 7thopen Street, to our New current York, students, NY 10009 212-870-6743 • [email protected] • www.wdsnyc.org siblings, and212-677-5210 friends of our • www.stbrigidschoolny.com community
Online Activity Guide Check it out on www.NYParenting.com
May 2015 • Manhattan Family 9 Common sense on Charter Schools
BY TAMMY SCILEPPI “Charter schools are part of the New Yorkers NY’S CHARTER educational landscape in Brook- s summer approaches, New SCHOOLS lyn, one where a parent has vari- consider York City’s heated charter ous options of how to educate their A school debate seems to be PART 2 OF A SERIES child. All of our students need to be gradually cooling down for now … equipped with the top-notch educa- what they until the start of another school year Many parents, teachers and ad- tion they deserve,” he said. “There in the fall. ministrators truly believe the larger are some important steps we must Charters are free public schools conversation shouldn’t be about take to ensure that our education have to gain open to all children in the state “district vs. charter,” but rather, system as a whole is addressing the through a random lottery. As an common sense solutions. overcrowding crisis we have in our from the alternative to traditional district borough’s schools, including an end schools, charters give parents the Pros and cons to forced co-location. Additionally, opportunity to choose what works Some folks support the notion that every school needs to take their movement best for their child. Since they’re charters exist solely to “privatize” fair share of ELL (English Language usually smaller, charters provide education, drain traditional schools Learners) and IEP (Individualized a more personal atmosphere, and of money and motivated students, Education Plan) students, to ensure many tend to emphasize core sub- and destroy unions, while others equitable access to education.” jects (English and math), along with strongly disagree. the arts, science, and languages. Brooklyn Borough President Eric Charters can innovate They have longer school days and Adams recently weighed in on the New York City Charter School Cen- school year. debate. ter CEO James Merriman is one of
10 Manhattan Family • May 2015 the nation’s foremost experts on, all our Universal pre-K students,” and a leading voice and advocate said Queens Borough President for high-quality charter schools. Melinda Katz, adding, “I therefore He and his team work at the state have concerns about expanding and city levels to provide a public the number of charter schools in policy environment that ensures our borough because they would that charters can continue to grow be competing with our exist- and succeed for our children, espe- ing public schools for a limited cially those most in need. amount of available classroom With extensive support from space. As Borough President and Gov. Cuomo and the legislature, as the mother of two young boys, enjoy the Charter Center is currently my main objective is to make sure working to broaden the public’s all of our borough’s children re- understanding and appreciation of ceive a quality education and do SWIMMING • TRIPS • SPORTS these hybrid schools, remove the not suffer any negative impacts arbitrary cap on charters, and se- due to overcrowding.” June 22–26 cure parity in funding. To Register Today Visit: According to Merriman, “Char- What’s happening August 3–7 ters are able to innovate in their in Manhattan? August 10–14 www.hewittschool.org classroom structures, curriculum, Manhattan Borough President and teaching methods. In return, Gale Brewer’s stance on this de- August 17–21 or call (212) 994-2596 they’re held to higher standards bate seems to confirm that the of accountability.” And it’s work- issue is in some ways, a double- ing, he said, pointing out that as edged sword. parents seek out schools that best “Done right, charter schools serve the needs of their children, can be a laboratory for innovation they’re applying to charters, many and a benefit for communities of which are out-performing their looking for additional educational district counter parts in droves, options. But all too often, the ex- he claims. pansion of charters has come at He said recent polls indicate that the expense of kids in our public 86 percent of New Yorkers want schools,” she said. more school options, while there According to Brewer, the forced are more than 50,000 students on co-locations in public schools, waitlists to get into the city’s 197 both in Manhattan and elsewhere, charters, which provide high-per- have left public school students forming options within the city’s as second-class citizens in their public education system. own buildings. “Just last month, I was at a Common Core meeting with teachers from & Success across the city, who described According to successacade- how their students had been de- mies.org: On the most recent New prived of libraries, computer labs, York State math and English Lan- and even bathrooms because a guage Arts exams, Success Acad- co-located charter had taken over emy scholars responded well to part of their building and refused the challenge of the more rigor- to share,” she said. “I have seen ous standards of the Common fabulous charter schools and met Core. fabulous charter operators, but Among the 2,255 scholars who there are others who are wielding were age-eligible to take the test, the charter school ‘movement’ 94 percent were proficient in like a weapon against our public math and 64 percent proficient in schools. The emphasis in educa- language arts. Success Academy tion policy must be on solutions schools ranked in the top one that raise up all our students.” percent in math and the top three percent in language arts among There’s hope all 3,560 schools in the state. In Department of Education math, our scholars outperformed spokesperson Harry Hartfield two of the city’s four highly selec- summed it up best: “It’s our goal to tive gifted and talented schools. invest in all our public schools to make sure parents have great op- Queens’ charter tions for their children, regardless school movement of what neighborhood they live in. “Queens has a very serious It doesn’t matter whether a child problem with student overcrowd- attends a traditional public school ing in our existing public schools, or a charter public school — we plus we have the issue of finding want every child to get the educa- Find Family online at www.NYParenting.com enough space to accommodate tion they need to succeed.”
May 2015 • Manhattan Family 11 Just a mom By Carolyn WaterBury- Somewhere along the way we got women. What I am suggesting is that As we tieman equality confused with sameness. We those of us who are mothers, in ad- bought into the notion that the only dition to carrying out this role to the he time-honored tradition of way to be equal, to be valuable in so- best of our ability, have an obligation to celebrate celebrating Mother’s Day has ciety, was to start doing whatever it ourselves and to our children to make T a long and surprisingly varied was that men happened to be doing. sure that the magnitude of the respon- Mother’s history. The observance of a special We accepted the misguided belief that sibility of parenting is not minimized! In day for mothers can be traced back to our worth is determined by whether short, I am asserting that somehow the the ancient Greeks and Romans, but or not we get a paycheck and how big job of rearing children has been deval- Day, taking the American version had its origins it is. We’ve been so anxious to achieve ued, that we women have contributed in the mid-1800s. The early propo- equality that we’ve thrown the baby to this process, and that it is high time back the nents of Mother’s Day were not inter- out with the bath water. In our struggle we did something about it! ested in being honored by their chil- to liberate ourselves from the stifling So how do we go about addressing dren with candy, cards, and flowers. belief that anatomy is destiny, we liber- this dilemma? Where do we begin? role of That practice arose in the early 1900s ated ourselves from the most impor- Here are a few suggestions: and resulted in the commercialization tant job we will ever do as humans — of the holiday by companies capitaliz- rearing children, the next generation Remember that mother ing on a popularized variation of the of human beings, the ones to whom every mother is a original idea. we will one day be handing over this working woman Mother’s Day was initially intended world. Our foremothers made incredible as a call to action for mothers to unite The irony is that at the same time sacrifices to insure that we would in promoting optimal child care and women are trying to dissociate them- have the right to pursue our dreams, preventing the loss of sons and daugh- selves from the mommy label, men by whatever those might be. We are not ters to the carnage of war. Theirs was the thousands are discovering that the doing anybody, especially our chil- a vision of an international dedication role with the greatest potential for pro- dren, any good by dividing ourselves to peace so that families, worldwide, viding them with the sense of meaning into camps — the working versus might raise their children to their full- and significance they seek is their role the non-working. When I continue to est in safety. Their motivation was not as fathers. hear that mothers, whether they are to bring attention to themselves, but to They are beginning to realize that working at home or working outside assert the primacy of the responsibil- the way to make the most profound the home, feel guilty for the choice ity for nurturing and rearing the next and definitive impact on the future is they have made, I can’t help but think generation. by the job they do as parents! that with all that guilt there can’t be With Mother’s Day upon us, I really As far as I know, Thomas Lickona’s much effective parenting going on. wanted to say something profound to conclusion is still accurate: “A child is The more comfortable we feel with commemorate this occasion. I have the only substance from which a re- the choices we have made, the less started and deleted this column so sponsible adult can be made.” Actually, threatened we are likely to feel by the many times, I’ve nearly made a hole it is the only substance from which choices of others. The greater confi- in my screen. You see, the feeling that any kind of adult can be made. The dence we have, the more effectively keeps creeping back is that of disap- uniquely complex, comprehensive, dy- we will carry out the responsibilities pointment. Yes, I admit it. namic nature of the parent-child rela- of our multiple roles. I am disappointed with the lot of tionship is unparalleled. It is the foun- us mothers. I am disheartened by the dation for every other relationship a Seek excellence, number of women I hear respond to child establishes. Everything a child not perfection the question, “What do you do?” with, comes to believe about him or herself, There is no such thing as a perfect “Oh well, I don’t work. I’m just a mom.” about the world, about how to relate to mother. We all make mistakes. We say And I am equally discouraged by the others, originates in the parent-child and do things that we regret. Obsess- number of women employed outside relationship. ing over mistakes is rarely produc- the home, who, when responding to Before proceeding, let me clarify tive. The worst mistake is one from the same question, never mention the my position: I am not suggesting that a which nothing is learned. We can fact that they are mothers, as if to do so woman has to have a child to be com- acknowledge our mistakes, offer a sin- would be admitting a weakness or flaw plete, fulfilled, or make a meaningful cere apology, including our intentions in their makeup. contribution to the future. Neither am I for correcting the situation, learn how What has happened? What have we suggesting that rearing children is the to avoid repeating the mistake, seek done? Somehow we have diminished only job women are capable of doing to identify and adopt more effective the value inherent in the realm of re- or should be allowed to do. Nor am I methods, and move on. After all, isn’t sponsibilities historically assigned to proposing that the responsibility for that what we expect our children to women — the domain of child rearing. rearing children should be limited to do? An encouraging voice is much
12 Manhattan Family • May 2015 to do with gender. It has everything to do with not having been taught how to behave appropriately.
Emphasize the commonalities rather than the differences We have adopted the habit of sepa- rating ourselves into factions based on some singular characteristic — working mothers, stay-at-home moth- ers, inner-city mothers, urban moth- ers, rural mothers, African-American mothers, Hispanic mothers, Christian mothers, Muslim mothers, Jewish mothers, children with special needs mothers, conservative mothers, lib- eral mothers. The list is endless, but the word they all have in common is “mothers.” When we focus on the prefixes rather than the suffix, the limited differences blind us to the multiple commonalities. And conse- quently, we are doing ourselves and our children a tremendous disser- vice. That which we have in common should bind us together and unite us in our shared objective.
We are all engaged in the monumental task of preparing the next generation of human beings In addition to assisting them in making the most of the best of themselves, it is imperative to remember that when we improve conditions for other children, we improve them for our own in the long run. Someday your child may be my child’s teacher or student, plumber or electrician, emergency room doctor, co-worker, friend, or spouse and vice versa. Someday our children will be making decisions about our future, just as we are mak- ing decisions about theirs now. Nothing we do guarantees that we will leave a mark on the future like the job we do as mothers. As you cel- ebrate this Mother’s Day, take time to reflect on what this role means to you, your children, your family, the more motivating than a critical one, to seek advice, suggestions, and in- how to nurture and care for another future. The next time someone asks, including the one we use on ourself. formation that can help us with this human being, whether we are going “What do you do?,” I challenge you awesome responsibility. to be parents or not. to proudly announce, “I’m in futures. Don’t depend on the I’m a mom!” maternal instinct Never allow gender Never allow gender Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman has de- Just because we are females does to be a limitation to be an excuse grees in Child Development, Family Stud- not mean we automatically know Just as gender should not limit the The next time I hear, “Boys will be ies, and Marriage and Family Therapy. everything there is to know about choices of our daughters, it should boys,” or “That’s just the way girls Waterbury-Tieman has been married for children, especially in the challeng- not limit the choices of our sons. are,” I am going to scream! Gender is 29 years and has two sons. She spent 15 ing times in which we live. Parenting Our children will be more complete, not, has never been, and will never years in various agencies and clinics as is learned, so we mustn’t hesitate to effective human beings if they have be an acceptable excuse for being ir- a family therapist and parent educator. learn more about it. We are no less of ample opportunities to learn and responsible, disrespectful, lazy, cruel, Visit Carolyn at www.aparent4life.com, a mother because we happen to find master a broad array of skills. We violent, or any other undesirable be- follow A Parent for Life on Facebook, or ourself in a situation we don’t know may not all need to know how to do havior that has been attributed to it. send questions and comments to paren- how to handle. It is wise, not weak, calculus, but we do all need to know Unacceptable behavior has nothing [email protected]. May 2015 • Manhattan Family 13 WOMEN Stay healthy in May ll winter long, we hibernated from the cold and waited for A the sun to come out. The bees are now buzzing, the flowers are blooming, the birds are chirp- ing — it’s time to celebrate May — one of my favorite months of the year! School tests have been taken, FABULYSS and kids have fun on their minds … summer recess, camp, and family FINDS adventures. For this #FabULyssFinds LYSS STERN column, I had the opportunity to talk with two wonderful doctors, Dr. Mary Ellen Renna and Dr. Annie Ne- grin about health issues we should be aware in May and beyond. Dr. Renna is the author of “Grow- ing Up Healthy the Next Generation Way: Add Years to Your Child’s Life and Life to Your Child’s Years.” Her program was awarded the “National Parenting Center Seal of Approval” and the “Children of the New Earth Seal of Excellence.” She is also a na- tional spokesperson for Families Fit Together, a campaign designed to educate parents and children on how to stay fit. Dr. Renna is also the author of “Medical Truths Revealed: Break- ing the Misinformation Chain,” divulg- ing the secrets of medicine while ad- dressing the issues of the times. She lays out four steps to good health for your child that ensure he will be on a path to good health no matter what time of year we are talk- ing about. Anticipate: This step means being allows everyone to be eating healthy household — he understands that prepared! Anticipating the needs of and eliminates the temptation to eat eating well is a way of life and is your child means having a plan. If bad foods regularly. needed to maintain good health. you are a new parent, be prepared Participate: If you want your child Talking about how wonderful it is to to only offer healthy food options for to eat healthy, you must set the ex- eat broccoli and spinach, on a very your new baby. This will be all he is ample by eating healthy and exercis- simplistic level, is extremely helpful used to and he will learn to love eat- ing. We are the teachers for our chil- to the young child. ing well. dren. We can’t expect our kids to eat Talk about keeping your heart For the older children, this means well if we are not eating fruits and healthy and muscles strong. The preparing meals and not being caught veggies everyday. Their little eyes younger a parent starts to teach her off guard … i.e. working parents get- and ears see and hear everything we child about good eating and healthy ting home late and using default fast do and we must be eating well and habits, the easier it is to continue foods or processed foods. Being pre- exercising regularly. This is the only them on the path to good eating. pared means thinking about healthy path to success. Dr. Mary Ellen Renna, physician and meals ahead of time and not letting Educate: As soon as a child is old nutrition specialist at Next Generation yourself be stuck and giving in to a enough to speak, we must teach him Pediatrics [555 N. Broadway in Jer- fast-food meal as opposed to a well- why we need to eat well and exercise icho, NY, (516) 677–9658, prohealthcare. thought-out, healthy meal choice. and insist on good eating habits. It’s com]. Eliminate: Get rid of the junk food never too early to talk to your baby • • • in the house! There is NO reason for about health and what it means to We lather our kids up with sun- a closet full of Oreo cookies and Dor- be healthy. screen before going outdoors from itos to exist in anyone’s house. Hav- It becomes second nature to the the time they are babies. We buy SPF ing only healthy choices in the house child who was raised in a healthy 30 sunblock, long-sleeve swimsuits,
14 Manhattan Family • May 2015 and reapply after every swim, or Caucasian, and smoking. This dis- at least try! So we get it, sun dam- ease doesn’t happen overnight. age to skin is nothing to be cavalier Your ophthalmologist will be able about. But what about the sun and to detect even the earliest signs of our eyes? this at your yearly eye exam. I am the mom who is chasing her Cloudy day? Don’t be fooled — Private/Independent kids in the playground after their the sun’s UV rays can pass through sunglasses fall off or they rip their the haziest of skies, so you’re still wide-brimmed hat off! Why? We at risk! School Guide now know that UV damage to our Unlike skin exposure, eye ex- eyes is accumulating from when we posure to the sun is also danger- are babies! ous — if not deadly — in the early Dr. Annie Negrin, a board-certi- morning and late afternoon. fied ophthalmologist, gave us some Many of us think of the sun being tips on kids, sunglasses, and how most damaging between 10 am and to prevent sun damage to our chil- 2 pm. This may be true for skin but dren’s eyes. the eyes are different! Our natu- Have young kids? You should ral eyebrow ridge evolved to block know that the sun’s effects are rays from entering our eyes when building up when we are toddlers the sun is at its highest. This is true on the playground! Kids should for kids, too. It’s the earlier morning wear a hat with a brim AND sun- and late afternoon hours that the glasses — as long as the plastic sun’s position is lower in the sky pairs have the “UVA/UVB sticker,” and therefore hits our eyes at an you are good to go! angle that our brow can’t protect us You don’t have to spend a lot on from! So on the early morning walks them — these can cost $5 to $10 a with the dog and late afternoon pair or even less if there’s a sale. strolls is when it’s even more impor- I personally wait for a good sale tant to put on those sunglasses! and buy half a dozen for each of Sun exposure to the eyes tends my kids. We know they lose them to be more constant in fall, winter, often, and they don’t want to wear and spring, when the sun is lower them, but keep trying! in the sky. Cold winter day? You Another good tip: invest in the still need sunglasses! If the sun is wrap-around Velcro band (One out, temperature doesn’t matter. Step Ahead and other baby cata- Many people think that the more logs) that holds the frames around you spend on sunglasses, the bet- their head even if they take them ter they protect. It’s just not true! off! You need to look for the “UVA/ Remember, it’s not only sun- UVB” sticker on the frames, then glasses that can protect our eyes, you know you’re getting the pro- but also visors and wide-brimmed tection you need. So, a $10 pair in hats that act like our own eyebrow the drugstore that has the sticker ridges to help keep the rays out of is just as effective as a brand-name our line of sight! trendy pair bought at a specialty It’s difficult to say exactly how sunglass store! much UV exposure damages the Another price option is a term eye over time, but we do know the called “polarization.” This term re- effects are cumulative. It’s building fers to the offsetting of light scatter up from when we are kids play- in your eye during driving or biking ing outside. The sun increases our or any other outdoor activity. Most chances of developing several eye drugstore glasses won’t have this, problems, including: and you’ll pay extra for polarized Sunburned, chronically dry lenses in a specialty store. eyes. Also known as Photokerati- Remember, polarization has tis, red, easily irritated eyes can nothing to do with UV protection come from sun damage that causes for the eye. tiny benign growths on the surface If following the latest trends is of our eyes that prevent tears from your thing, this spring’s aviator- naturally coating to protect and style lenses are more popular than soothe. You may not even be able ever! And from your local drug- to see these in the mirror, but they store to a Solstice or Ray-ban store, can cause burning, tearing, and there are tons of aviators to choose light sensitivity. from, with good protection at any Macular degeneration. A lead- price point! ing cause of blindness in the US. For more information on Dr. Annie Sun exposure is a risk factor for Negrin, email [email protected]. NYParenting.com this degenerative disease, but so is Lyss Stern is the founder of DivaLys- age, having a family history, being scious Moms (www.divamoms.com).
May Month2015 • 2015Manhattan • XXXXX FaFamilymily 1543 Dual roles Singer stars By Tammy Scileppi super-talented, musical on Broadway mama is making a living A doing what she loves and balancing a career in the spotlight and at home with hands-on mommyhood — with- out going crazy. Chilina Kennedy — a hard-work- ing New York City performer and songwriter — feels inspired by her child, and would like to encour- age other women to fully embrace mommyhood without sacrific- ing their creative passions, while channeling their inner divas. Taking the ever- popular, Brooklyn- born singer-song- writer Carole King’s suggestion Photo by Nick Cartell — as described (Above) Chilina Kennedy on stage. (Left) Kennedy with in the lyrics of her Henry (6 months), and fiance Jacob James. iconic Tapestry song, “Beautiful” — award-winning offer from the pro- chilina Kennedy: Performing on actress and musician ducers of “Beauti- Broadway is a dream come true. The Chilina Kennedy usually ful” for the lead role. first time I was here doing Jesus gets up every morning with a Finally, her big break — Christ Superstar (in 2012) was unbe- smile on her face in her real-life role right before her water broke! lievable. The experience is especially as mommy, and shows the world all The spirited artist is delighted to rich this time around because the the love in her heart on stage, as that talk about her dual starring roles: as role of Carole King is so unique — soulful, groundbreaking pop artist, in Carole King and baby Henry’s mom. she is a real person and many people the Broadway smash hit “Beautiful: Somehow, she also found the time have a sense of connection to her The Carole King Musical.” The new to finish her new folk (with a hint of and her music. And the music I get mom started performing at the Ste- bluegrass) album, “What You Find to sing is incredible — many people, phen Sondheim Theatre on March 7, in a Bottle.” How does she do it all myself included, never knew how after taking over Tony-winner Jessie without losing her sanity? I sat down many No. 1 hits she wrote, or that Mueller’s role as King. to talk to her. she wrote half the songs she did. I The turning point in Kennedy’s Tammy Scileppi: What’s it like feel very lucky to get to do this for a life and career seemed to happen in channeling your inner Carole King living and play every night with real a New York minute. One day, as she on the Great White Way? Rumor has theater thoroughbreds — it’s like I’ve was going into labor, she received it you only get one bathroom break been training for the Olympics my an unexpected phone call: it was an and have 15 costume changes. whole life and then getting to play in
16 Manhattan Family • May 2015 the games. TS: How did you prepare “While I was for this challenging role and how are you and Carole alike? waiting to hear CK: I learned a lot about Carole King from interviews, about whether or recordings, and from her not I had gotten memoir “A Natural Woman.” I spent a lot of time pouring the part, I actually over videos of her concerts and watching her answer went into early questions about her life and her music. labor — I just I have been influenced by chalked it up to her and continue to be in- spired by her. She is political feeling funny.” and isn’t afraid to speak up for a cause she believes in. I would like to be more like her Since the day Henry was in that way. born he has been a great We both have had interest- sleeper and has adjusted bril- ing relationships and we both liantly to the actor’s schedule. have children. I think I am also Jacob and I spend a lot of time similar to her in that I eventu- exploring parenting meth- ally want to live a more simple ods; we have been trying to life. A difference between us is adopt Montessori principles, that I haven’t yet had the cour- especially with Henry’s simple age to take that leap. surroundings and sleeping ar- TS: What was it like the day rangements. you got the call about per- Jacob brings him to the the- forming in “Beautiful?” ater every two show days, be- CK: I was actually 33 weeks tween shows, and we have a pregnant when I flew down picnic in my dressing room. to New York (from Canada) What’s most amazing is learn- for my final audition, so I ing about who my son is and just made it in under the cut- is going to be as a person, as off time for flying pregnant he is being raised in one of the women. They filmed me so greatest cities in the world. Carole King could see the Henry has turned into a video over the weekend and very social little guy and en- decide if she wanted to give joys everything from restau- her approval. While I was wait- rants to his subway rides, mak- ing to hear about whether or ing people laugh and smile. I not I had gotten the part, I know New York is a huge part actually went into early labor of his social development. — I just chalked it up to feel- TS: How would you describe ing funny. On Monday morn- Carole King? ing I got a call from my agent, who some of them quite personal. is where my family is. I try not to CK: I am certainly drawn to her said, “Hi Chilina, I was wondering TS: Give our readers a glimpse worry too much if I’m not perfect. My compassionate nature; how she loves if you could do me a favor?” I said, into your life and what it’s like jug- daily mantra? Honestly, as cliché as people, animals and the environment. “Uh, ok, what would you like me to gling mommyhood with Broadway. it sounds, “Keep it simple.” Spending I love her songwriting and her brav- do?” And he said, “I need you to get CK: My home life is pretty typical. time together is the most important ery at being one of the first women to me a couple of tickets.” I said, “Sure, I have a wonderful partner, Jacob thing. pave the way for female songwriters for what?” And he replied, “For your James; he’s an actor and teaches TS: So, what’s your little guy like? — Gloria Steinem was quoted saying opening on Broadway!” Best telling Shakespeare. He’s staying at home CK: He’s a Virgo to two Aries par- that Carole King was the first woman me I got the job … ever. to take care of our son and our two ents. Jacob and I felt that Henry (now to give a downbeat. I appreciate her TS: You say you have a soft spot dogs, while I work. We try not to 6 months) was a quiet, gentle soul honesty in telling her story and hav- for folk music. Describe “What You sweat the little things. from the time I was pregnant with ing the courage to share it with the Find in a Bottle?” We have a little one bedroom (on him until we actually met him and world. She seems to me to be a very CK: My album has been over 10 the Upper West Side) and we are very got to know him. He loves music and positive, hopeful, glass-half-full kind years in the making. It’s a collection lucky that we have a private outdoor has been playing the piano with me of person. If she were a color in the of songs I’ve written that are all part space. It’s great for the dogs and pro- on occasion. We try not to allow him rainbow of personalities, I think she’d of my life’s journey and specifically vides peaceful quiet time for us. screen time of any kind, so books, be yellow and I think the world can take the listener through a meaning- Our permanent home is in Strat- music of all kinds, parks, and people always use more of that. ful transition of love and loss. I wrote ford, Ontario, which is quite different are what we focus his attention on. You can stream Chilina Kennedy’s many of them between jobs in the from New York City. I’m from an army Language is also very important for new album “What You Find in a Bot- dead of winter, in a small Canadian family, so I have the philosophy that us. I am fluent in French, so we are tle” at http://bit.ly/ChilinaKennedyS or town and backstage during rehears- no matter where I’m living, home re- trying to teach him both languages download at http://bit.ly/ChilinaKenne- als. The title holds many meanings, ally is where you make it. And mine right from the start. dyDL. chilinakennedy.ca May 2015 • Manhattan Family 17 Arts May 2015 MANHATTAN FORARTS KIDSFREE Directory
Children’s Museum of sessions in fall and spring for grades Family the Arts 2 -12 on Saturdays between 9:00am Where Every Child Matters and 5:30pm (class times vary accord- 103 Charlton Street, NYC 10014 ing to program); and a summer 212.274.0986 or www.cmany.org 3-week intensive for students ages CMA is a non-profit arts facility that 9 -17. Here’s to brings hands-on art programming to children throughout New York City. NP Junior Actors expand their per- sonal development and creative tech- Moms CMA’s After School Program offers nique in a variety of classes including • Prioritizing semester-long classes in a range of Acting, Scene Study, Improvisation, personal time mediums for young artists ages 5 to Voice & Speech, Movement & Dance, 15. Whether your child is a gradu- Song Interpretation, Improv Comedy, • Stepmoms on ate of our WEE Arts early childhood Mother’s Day Musical Theatre, Acting for Film & classes, or taking art classes at CMA TV, and more! • Why a woman for the first time, our teaching art- is never ‘just ists are here to help your child refine The Junior Actors program has a mom’ their art techniques, develop their been a vibrant part of the famed own artistic voice, and build critical Neighborhood Playhouse for over thinking skills. eighty-seven years. Many go on to Montessori professional acting careers and are Each class is designed to teach and strong advocates of the arts. Apply in the 21st build upon age-appropriate art-mak- now! century ing skills while encouraging creative and imaginative expression. CMA’s Summer Colony. Russian-American Youth Find us online at www.NYParenting.com Theatre (New York, USA) The Diller-Quaile School and Lavrovsky Laboratory of Music (Moscow, Russia) 24 East 95th Street, NYC 10128 917-817-9748 or www.archh.org 212-369-1484 or www.diller- We invite young ballet dancers and If you like quaile.org students from 6 to 20 to audition Since 1920, Diller-Quaile has been for - ballet productions for the 2015- developing the innate musicality in 2016 season. the magazine each individual, inspiring participa- The productions will be “Sleeping tion for a lifetime. Diller-Quaile Beauty”,” Snow Maiden”, “Giselle”, offers Early Childhood Classes (3 “Peter and the Wolf”. mos – 6 yrs); Instrument & Voice you’ll love Lessons, Classes & Ensembles; Adult Additionally we offer year round Programs; and Teacher Training/ Russian Ballet classes! With distin- Dalcroze Courses. guished ballet dancer, choreogra- pher, and former principal dancer the site. Rug Concerts for young children, of The Bolshoi Theater (Moscow, master classes, and faculty concerts Russia), choreography tutor of the occur throughout the year. Bolshoi Theater, Artistic Director of Curricula emanate primarily from the Bolshoi Ballet Academy (Moscow, international folk music and classi- Russia), MICHAIL LAVROVSKY. cal music, and the School annually Auditions will be held in NYC: enrolls approximately 1,100 students Check us out! of all ages. The faculty is comprised 1 August, 2015, 11:00 am -3:00 pm of credentialed, experienced, and 520 8th Ave (between 36th and 37th dedicated artists, educators, and St), Studio 16 D. New York, New administrators. York, 10018, NYParenting.com Fall classes begin in September; Video auditions please mail to: visit www.diller-quaile.org to apply 6219 Spencer Terrace, Bronx, NY online. Accredited by the Accrediting 10471 Commission for Community and Precollegiate Arts Schools. Tel:917 817-9748 Email: [email protected] or Where every family matters and Junior Actors: The Website: www.archh.org Neighborhood Playhouse For more info: http://archh.org/ where New York parents find help, 340 E. 54th Street NYC 10003 russian-ballet-classes.htm#_RBS/ 212-688-3770 or www. RAY_THEATER_TRAINING; info and support. playhousejuniors.com Register online: https://www. The Neighborhood Playhouse: Juniors regonline.com/Register/Checkin. Actors program runs two 12-week aspx?EventID=1615074 18 Manhattan Family • May 2015 RUSSIAN- AMERICAN YOUTH THEATRE (New York, USA) and LAVROVSKY LABORATORY (Moscow, Russia) SUMMER ART COLONY Invite young ballet dancers and students 6 to 20 years old 0/)*4503*$(07&3/034*4-"/% to audition for: • ballet productions "SU'JMMFE%BZ$BNQTr".1. for the season 2015-2016 +VOF"VHVTUr"HFT Sleeping Beauty Snow Maiden Giselle Peter and the Wolf and • year round Russian Ballet classes! CONVENIENT Distinguished ballet dancer, choreographer, former principal dancer of DROP-OFF AT Bolshoi Theater (Moscow, Russia), choreography tutor of the Bolshoi Theater, BATTERY MARITIME Artistic Director of the Bolshoi Ballet Academy (Moscow, Russia), FERRY BUILDING MICHAIL LAVROVSKY Is opening a branch of his studio company in New York! Live auditions in NYC: August 1 - 11:00 am -3:00 pm 520 8th Ave. (between 36th and 37th St), Studio 16 D. %*4$06/50/(07&3/034 New York, New York, 10018 *4-"/%$-"44&4'03."/)"55"/ Video auditions please mail to: FAMILY READERS!6TF$PEF 6219 Spencer Terrace, Bronx, NY 10471 ."/)"55"/ at checkout! Tel: 917-817-9748 Email: [email protected] Website: www.archh.org Children’s Museum of the Arts For more info: http://archh.org/russian-ballet-classes.htm#_RBS/RAY_THEATER_TRAINING 103 Charlton St, NYC r cmany.org r REGISTER TODAY! Register online: https://www.regonline.com/Register/Checkin.aspx?EventID=1615074
Summer Acting Intensive Conservatory instruction for serious young actors seeking rigorous, dynamic training in the heart of New York City. SUMMER PROGRAMS (3 Week Program in New York City) The Diller-Quaile Teen Studio 15-18 yrs Monday - Friday 9:30am-5:00pm School of Music 24 E. 95th St. � New York, NY 10128 � 212-369-1484 Tween Workshop 12-14 yrs Monday - Friday 9:30am-5:00pm Junior Group 9-11 yrs Monday - Friday 10am-3pm July 20th - August 7th Apply now! Limited Spaces Available.
“ I've learned so much about how to act, sing, and dance, I've met some wonderful people, and most of all, I've gained a life changing experience.” – Anzi D., Summer Teen 2014 Former Junior Actors Visit www.diller-quaile.org for a complete listing of Early Childhood, Instrumental & Vocal, Adult, and Community Programs for 2015-2016.
Accredited by the Accrediting Daisy EAGAN Brendan SEXTON, III Scarlett JOHANSSON Ally SHEEDY Frances CONROY Anderson COOPER Commission for Community & 340 EAST 54TH STREET NY, NY 10022 | 212.688.3770 | PLAYHOUSEJUNIORS.COM DQ Precollegiate Arts Schools Special Advertising Section May 2015 • Manhattan Family 19 Giving birth The new By Allison Plitt amous people get pregnant frontier in and have children all the time, F but not many do so at the age of 50. assisted Enter Sophie B. Hawkins. The American singer, songwriter, and musician, announced in Febru- at reproduction 50 ary that she is pregnant and is ex- assisted reproduction, mostly donor When asked if women 50 and pecting to deliver her baby girl in eggs,” said Grifo. “There have been older having babies is a rising trend, July 2015. no reported pregnancies in women Grifo observed, “It’s happening, but Hawkins, whose hits include “As I over 50 doing IVF with their own it’s still not that common. The age Lay Me Down,” said that in order to eggs, as the pregnancies of women of first deliveries is rising dramati- become pregnant, she used in vitro 45 and older are almost always cally, especially on the coasts, just fertilization (IVF), which involves achieved using donor eggs. An egg because the stages of our life ex- combining a woman’s eggs and a donor cycle (starting with egg pro- pand with our life expectancy, so man’s sperm outside of the body duction and ending with an em- we spend more time in each of the in a laboratory. Once an embryo or bryo transfer) can cost $20,000 to stages.” embryos form, they are then placed $30,000,” Grifo stated. Based on a 2011 research paper inside a woman’s uterus. The mothers themselves must published by his colleagues at New In Hawkins’ case, she used 15 fro- meet certain criteria to be consid- York University, Grifo said, “We zen embryos that had been created ered for IVF at an older age. In addi- looked at eggs, embryos, frozen with donor sperm when she was 31 tion to having a normal blood pres- eggs, fresh eggs and embryos and years old. As reproductive technolo- sure and weight, prospective moth- showed that per retrieval, we got the gies have advanced, opportunities ers must undergo an electrocardio- same pregnancy rate. There are ad- for women to have children at an gram that checks for problems with vantages and disadvantages to each older age have become more avail- the electrical activity of the heart, a option and with good counseling able. stress test for the heart, a colonos- and informed consent, patients can According to statistics from the copy, and a mammogram. decide what to do.” Centers for Disease Control and Pre- The Centers for Disease Control Because frozen embryos involve vention, births by women ages 50 to list some of the risks involved for donor sperm or the sperm from a 54 rose by more than 165 percent women in their late 40s and 50s hav- male partner, not all patients are from 255 such births in 2000 to 677 ing children as preeclampsia (a con- comfortable freezing embryos, be- in 2013. dition during pregnancy marked by cause they may never be used if the Dr. Jamie Grifo, program direc- high blood pressure and a high level woman separates from her partner. tor of the New York University Lan- of protein in the urine), gestational The woman can only use the embryo gone Fertility Center and a reproduc- hypertension, diabetes, preterm de- with the male partner’s consent. tive endocrinologist, explained that livery, and multiple births. It is illegal to sell frozen eggs and most of these mothers conceived NYU’s website (www.nyulangone. embryos and donating them involves children by using donor eggs fertil- org) states that it is unique among costly testing on the donors’ behalf, ized by sperm and implanted into fertility centers in that it has “pi- which usually ends up having them the womb. oneered improvements in genetic forgo the procedures and throw the As the average age for menopause screening technology over the past reproductive materials away. is 51, fertility decreases through a 20 years, leading to more efficient Dr. Barry Behr, professor of ob- woman’s 30s and 40s and usually and safer IVF procedures.” In other stetrics and gynecology (reproduc- vanishes by 45. words, the doctors test embryos for tive endocrinology and infertility) at “Egg donors are not a new trend. certain genetic disorders to ensure Stanford University’s Medical Cen- There are a limited number of pa- they are healthy before beginning ter, disagrees with Grifo’s conclusion tients over the age of 50 who use the IVF process. that almost all assisted reproductive
20 Manhattan Family • May 2015 If a single woman wants a child, but doesn’t have a partner, she can freeze her eggs until she decides when she wants to conceive. If she finds a partner, she can use her eggs and Giving birth her partner’s sperm to create an embryo. The new By Allison Plitt amous people get pregnant frontier in and have children all the time, F but not many do so at the age of 50. assisted Enter Sophie B. Hawkins. The American singer, songwriter, and musician, announced in Febru- at reproduction 50 ary that she is pregnant and is ex- assisted reproduction, mostly donor When asked if women 50 and pecting to deliver her baby girl in eggs,” said Grifo. “There have been older having babies is a rising trend, July 2015. no reported pregnancies in women Grifo observed, “It’s happening, but Hawkins, whose hits include “As I over 50 doing IVF with their own it’s still not that common. The age Lay Me Down,” said that in order to eggs, as the pregnancies of women of first deliveries is rising dramati- become pregnant, she used in vitro 45 and older are almost always cally, especially on the coasts, just fertilization (IVF), which involves achieved using donor eggs. An egg because the stages of our life ex- combining a woman’s eggs and a donor cycle (starting with egg pro- pand with our life expectancy, so man’s sperm outside of the body duction and ending with an em- we spend more time in each of the in a laboratory. Once an embryo or bryo transfer) can cost $20,000 to stages.” embryos form, they are then placed $30,000,” Grifo stated. Based on a 2011 research paper inside a woman’s uterus. The mothers themselves must published by his colleagues at New In Hawkins’ case, she used 15 fro- meet certain criteria to be consid- York University, Grifo said, “We technologies have about the same than frozen embryos and eggs. Saying that he fully supports egg- embryo will always be higher than zen embryos that had been created ered for IVF at an older age. In addi- looked at eggs, embryos, frozen pregnancy rates. “There is nothing in life where freezing, Behr believes this tech- that of an egg, because you don’t with donor sperm when she was 31 tion to having a normal blood pres- eggs, fresh eggs and embryos and An example Behr refers to can fresh is the same or worse than fro- nique has advantages over embryo- know the potential of an egg before years old. As reproductive technolo- sure and weight, prospective moth- showed that per retrieval, we got the be found online at the Society for zen. You can look at published data. freezing. For example, if a single it is fertilized today.” gies have advanced, opportunities ers must undergo an electrocardio- same pregnancy rate. There are ad- Assisted Reproductive Technology Pregnancy rates are 10 percent to woman wants a child, but doesn’t In an interview with ABC Televi- for women to have children at an gram that checks for problems with vantages and disadvantages to each (www.sart.org.) under the heading 20 percent lower with frozen eggs have a partner, she can freeze her sion in 2012, Behr said it was “mor- older age have become more avail- the electrical activity of the heart, a option and with good counseling “IVF Success Rates” that produces a cycles than they are with fresh egg eggs until she decides when she ally irresponsible” to tell a couple able. stress test for the heart, a colonos- and informed consent, patients can “National Data Summary” from 2013, cycles.” wants to conceive. If she finds a about freezing eggs but not disclose According to statistics from the copy, and a mammogram. decide what to do.” which is a compilation of statistics Regarding the use of eggs versus partner, she can use her eggs and to them about freezing embryos. Centers for Disease Control and Pre- The Centers for Disease Control Because frozen embryos involve from fertility centers throughout the embryos, Behr sees different suc- her partner’s sperm to create an Behr says he has softened his vention, births by women ages 50 to list some of the risks involved for donor sperm or the sperm from a country. The website also allows cess rates as well. embryo. She also has the option position on being “morally irrespon- 54 rose by more than 165 percent women in their late 40s and 50s hav- male partner, not all patients are users to look at the data of individual “Pregnancy rate does not mean of using donor sperm to create the sible,” but he claims there are fer- from 255 such births in 2000 to 677 ing children as preeclampsia (a con- comfortable freezing embryos, be- fertility clinics nationwide, although that the techniques are equivalent. embryo. tility centers and individuals “who in 2013. dition during pregnancy marked by cause they may never be used if the it is not designed to compare IVF It’s not arithmetically possible to Other instances where egg-freez- are morally irresponsible and who Dr. Jamie Grifo, program direc- high blood pressure and a high level woman separates from her partner. clinics’ success rates. have eggs be equal to embryos. Eggs ing is advantageous is when a female are selling people on false hope and tor of the New York University Lan- of protein in the urine), gestational The woman can only use the embryo According to the National Data are more fragile than embryos, so cancer patient wishes to bank her that is immoral and unethical. This gone Fertility Center and a reproduc- hypertension, diabetes, preterm de- with the male partner’s consent. Summary, the percentage of trans- there is a slightly lower survival rate eggs. Egg-freezing is also a more vi- would not be the case for Dr. Grifo’s tive endocrinologist, explained that livery, and multiple births. It is illegal to sell frozen eggs and fers resulting in live births is 56.1 per- in eggs than embryos. One egg going able alternative for those who have nor our practice. Neither myself most of these mothers conceived NYU’s website (www.nyulangone. embryos and donating them involves cent for fresh embryos, 47.1 percent in does not translate to one embryo moral or ethical concerns about nor Dr. Grifo represent our field in children by using donor eggs fertil- org) states that it is unique among costly testing on the donors’ behalf, for frozen donor eggs, 40.5 percent developed,” Behr explains. storing extra embryos after in vitro parity.” ized by sperm and implanted into fertility centers in that it has “pi- which usually ends up having them for thawed embryos, and 41 percent “Not every egg fertilizes,” he con- fertilization. For more information about in the womb. oneered improvements in genetic forgo the procedures and throw the for donated embryos. These statis- tinues. “That means that if 60 per- Behr says the data from the So- vitro fertilization, visit NYU’s Lan- As the average age for menopause screening technology over the past reproductive materials away. tics show the highest success rate cent to 70 percent of your eggs sur- ciety for Assisted Reproductive gone Fertility Center website at is 51, fertility decreases through a 20 years, leading to more efficient Dr. Barry Behr, professor of ob- is by using fresh embryos. There is vive and fertilize, the utility of eggs Technology for 2011 and 2012 shows www.nyulangone.org/locations/fer- woman’s 30s and 40s and usually and safer IVF procedures.” In other stetrics and gynecology (reproduc- a 9 percent lower success rate from starting with 10, we’re now down to greater disparity in success rates tility-center. vanishes by 45. words, the doctors test embryos for tive endocrinology and infertility) at using frozen donor eggs than using six to seven embryos. If I start with among the different technologies. “Egg donors are not a new trend. certain genetic disorders to ensure Stanford University’s Medical Cen- fresh donor eggs (in fresh embryos). ten embryos, I bet that I will have “Now I’m not saying in five years Allison Plitt is a contributing writer to There are a limited number of pa- they are healthy before beginning ter, disagrees with Grifo’s conclusion Behr also says that fresh embryos more babies from my ten embryos or 10 years those success rates may New York Parenting and lives in Queens tients over the age of 50 who use the IVF process. that almost all assisted reproductive and eggs have higher success rates than from your 10 eggs. “ be closer, but the success rate of an with her husband and daughter.
May 2015 • Manhattan Family 21 Montessori’s future sense By Martha haakMat be creative and flexible problem solv- Building ers who care about making life better won’t pretend to know what 21st- for themselves and others. 21st-century century education really means. Montessori schools are ahead I Predicting how to best prepare of the curve. While other schools Maria Montessori developed a timeless our students for citizenship and lead- are adding components to their pro- educational philosophy. skills for more ership in a quickly changing world is grams to meet the demands of being not an exact science. academically excellent and building sori’s time and is our grounding for than a century The task of educational leaders upon these 21st-century skills, these much of where we’re headed next. today is to sculpt teaching and learn- are inherent parts of what Montesso- Montessori was a cutting-edge ing to best meet demands about rians already do. Because indepen- educator in her time. She framed her which we can only hypothesize. We dent thinking and learning, creativ- life’s work around observing child know at best that our students must ity, collaboration, grace and cour- development and creating an edu- be skilled in working both indepen- tesy, and practical life skill building cational philosophy grounded in the dently and collaboratively. ln order to are all major outcomes of a Montes- very specific and scientific stages of innovate and move us firmly into the sori education, 21st-century learning growth from infancy through adoles- future, they must be able to think crit- is not a far away trend that we need cence. She did what no others had ically, be comfortable with construct- to build into our program. done before her, and that is to study ing knowledge as opposed to relying The Montessori philosophy is the child at each stage and come to on proscribed ideas, and they need to transcending founder Maria Montes- understand the best way to tap into that child’s natural curiosity in order 21st-century skill Maria Montessori’s teachings Examples to build not only skills and knowl- Critical thinking and Unencumbered by standard patterns of thought, Higher-level thinking skills promoted by extend- edge, but also a love of learning that would become a necessary skill problem solving children are free to rejoice in trial and error and to ed work periods with time to conceptualize, for life. Montessori discovered that innately innovate. evaluate, and analyze. given the right tools, materials, time, Creativity and Children are innately creative and curious — schools The uninterrupted work cycle and encouragement space and guidance, children are curiosity must be designed to allow time and space for both. for intellectual risk taking and experimentation. capable of extraordinary thought and problem solving. She proved Independence and Given the right environment, carefully prepared Weekly goal setting with advisors promotes that such an educational grounding executive function to allow freedom within limits to discover and independence, time management, and organiza- would prepare the child for a life of construct understanding, children thrive as inde- tion. Prepared environment with tools and mate- learning and great possibility. pendent learners. rials within reach to foster independent choices Montessori inspired a school of ed- and decisions. ucational thought, and she brought a Collaboration Children naturally seek to explore and share what Team-based learning in mixed-age programs unique tradition of child-centeredness they learn with their peers — learning spaces with suites and common areas. Service learning. to education that continues to guide must be designed to facilitate this communication. the practices of educators in progres- sive schools all over the world. Her Leadership Given the opportunity to interact with younger Three-year cycle provides distinct markers work is timeless and echoes of her and older peers, children learn to play roles as for personal, social, and emotional growth. philosophy haunt the chambers of leaders and followers, and understand their Leadership and social responsibility through ser- educational movements through the responsibilities for each. vice learning. ages, including our recent forays into Cross-cultural Children must see themselves as connected to Culture studies and global studies. Linked social 21st-century education. Montessori tenets connect with to- competence others within and across cultures — the study of studies and science units. day’s rhetoric about skills necessary cultures then becomes an exploration of humans to prepare our students for life in this across similarities and differences. century and beyond. Maria Montes- Social Responsibility Through articulated practical life, grace and courtesy, Stewardship through service learning. sori’s ideas from more than 100 years and service learning curricula, children learn to care Community service. Overnight trips. ago still resonate in today’s conversa- for themselves, others and their environment. tions about teaching and learning. Martha Haakmat is the new head of Resources: Gardner, H. (2008). “5 Minds for the Future.” Boston, MA: Harvard Business Press. school at Brooklyn Heights Montessori Jerald, C.D. (2009). “Defining a 21st Century Education.” http://www.cfsd16.org/public/_century/pdf/Defininga21stCenturyEducation_Jerald_2009.pdf Partnership for 21stCentury Skills. (2007). “Framework for 21st Century Learning.” http://www.p21.org/our-work/p21-framework. School. You can reach her at mhaak- Pink, D.H. (2005). “A Whole New Mind: Moving from the Information Age to the Conceptual Age.” New York: Riverhead Books. [email protected].
22 Manhattan Family • May 2015 Please inquire about openings for the 2013-2014 school year. Please inquire aboutabout openingsopenings forfor thethe 2015-2016 2013-2014 schoolschool year.year. TwinPleaseTwin inquire Parks Parks about openings MontessoriMontessori for the 2013-2014 Schools Schools school year. CentralTwin Park Parks Guided GuidedMontessori byby the Montessori Schools philosophy, MMS enriches the lives of students 1 West 91st Street we gently help children learn how from 3 years old to 6th grade in a Central Park weGuided gently by help the children Montessori learn how philosophy, Montessori environment that engages NewCentral York, NY Park 10024 Guidedto learn by in the a secure, Montessori prepared philosophy, the whole child. 1 WestPhone:1 91st West (212) 91stStreet 595-2000 Street towe learn gently in a secure,help children prepared learn how Fax: (212) 595-0101 weenvironment, gently help layingchildren a firmlearn foundation how MMS children are: New York,New York, NY 10024 NY 10024 environment,totofor learn them in toin a become secure,layinga secure, a preparedconfident, firm prepared foundation caring, Phone:Phone: (212) (212)595-2000 595-2000 forand them successful to become human confident, beings. caring, • Respectful • Responsible • Critical Fax:Park (212) West595-0101 environment, laying a firm foundation • Resilient • Passionate thinkers Fax: (212) 595-0101 andenvironment, successful human laying beings. a firm foundation 435 Central Park West for them to become confident, caring, New York, NY 10025 forTwin them Parks to Montessori become Schools confident, are caring, Phone: (212) 678-6072 andaccredited successful by the human American beings. Montessori Park West Fax: (212) 678-1998 TwinandSociety successful Parks (AMS), Montessori the humanMiddle States beings. Schools 435 Central Park West Park West Commission on Elementary Schools New York, NY 10025 areTwin accredited Parks Montessori by AMS Schools and MSCES. are 435 Central Park West Phone:Riverside (212) 678-6072 Ouraccredited(MSCES), schools byand arethe are membersAmerican members Montessori of of NYSAIS, the 202 Riverside Drive TwinNew YorkParks Association Montessori of Independent Schools are New York,Fax: (212)NY 10025 678-1998 ISAAGNY,Society (AMS), Parents the Middle League States and New York, NY 10025 Schools (NYAIS), the Independent Phone:Phone: (212) (212) 678-6072 665-1600 accredited by the American Montessori areCommissionSchools affilliate Admissions onschools Elementary Associationof Columbia Schools of Fax: (212)Fax: (212)678-1998 665-1775 Riverside University.Society(MSCES),Greater New (AMS),and Yorkare members(ISAAGNY),the Middle of the States 202 Riverside Drive CommissionNewParents York League, Association on as Elementary well of Independent as affiliate Schools New York, NY 10025 Schoolsschools (NYAIS),of Columbia the Independent University. RiversidePhone: (212) 665-1600 (MSCES), and are members of the Now accepting Schools Admissions Association of 202 RiversideFax: (212) Drive665-1775 New York Association of Independent inquiries for a Greater New York (ISAAGNY), the 2s program New York, NY 10025 SchoolsParents League, (NYAIS), as well the as Independent affiliate Phone: (212) 665-1600 Schoolsschools of AdmissionsColumbia University. Association of Fax: (212) 665-1775One School. Three Campuses. Greater New York (ISAAGNY), the 325 West 85th St • www.mmsny.org • 212.579.5525 Parents League, as well as affiliate schools of Columbia University. Montessori Certified Teachers One School. Three Campuses. Full and Half Day Classes for Children 2-6 Years Yoga, Art, Spanish, and Performing Arts After School Programs: Art, Tae Kwon Do, Organic Cooking, One School. Three Campuses. OPEN HOUSE Meditation & Mindfulness, FiDi CAMPUS: TriBeCa CAMPUS: Latin Dance & Rhythm, Thursday, May 7th Wednesday, May 13th Yoga & Gymnastics, 5:30-6:30 pm 5:30-6:30 pm Storytelling, Spanish 2 Gold St. NYC 10038 53 Beach St. NYC 10013 2 3 A C 4 5 J Z 1 2 3 A C E WE’RE EXPANDING! Serving the Downtown Community for Over 10 years phone: (212) 334-0400 [email protected] www.montessorimanhattan.com
Special Advertising Section May 2015 • Manhattan FaMily 23 Montessori Directory
Battery Park Through the dynamic partnership Montessori of child, parent, and teacher, a con- sistent Montessori framework for 21 South End Avenue, NYC 10280 learning is developed, offering “An 212-235-2320 or www. Education for Life.” The program bpmpreschool.com offers opportunities for visual per- At Battery Park Montessori we forming arts, multiple trips a year Accepting applications encourage independent, thought- to Black Rock Forest, and an active for 2015- 2016 ful learners to interact with nature physical education program. respectfully. Children experience Kindergartners begin the elementary Land Air Water presentations out- foreign language program in French side in the sun, next to the Hudson and Spanish as well as participate in River. full-year violin program. They learn through movement, the importance of which Dr. Montessori Montessori School of stressed. Our space has no walls nor doors; children are free to take their Manhattan learning wherever it goes, with a 53 Beach St. and 2 Gold St. THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL fluidity to each day that enhances Campuses growth. 212-334-0400 or www. of New York International montessorimanhattan.com Our teachers are thrilled to observe For over 15 years, the Montessori each child’s interactions with the School of Manhattan has proudly Montessori materials in our unique served families at our TriBeca and environment. As passionate guides, FiDi campuses, and our sister school, they follow best practices so each constructed by our MSM parents child can reach their potential and and faculty, for children of the love learning. impoverished Batey Lecheria, D.R. Metropolitan Our beautiful, sun-filled classrooms and highly experienced Montessori- Montessori School certified teachers, create a joyful, 325 West 85th Street NYC 10024 nurturing environment where each Wisdom through Knowledge 212-579-5526 or www.mmsny. child is challenged to the highest org level of his or her unique abilities. Celebrating its 50th year, MSM students enjoy an educational experience fostering self-esteem and ● Montessori hands-on materials Metropolitan Montessori School is a “west side gem” - a perfect an ever-increasing curiosity about sharpen thinking skills in prep intersection of a small, caring school the world. REGISTER for Gifted and Talented tests community and a stimulating, MSM graduates are consistently NOW ● Specialized H.S. entrance test classes dynamic academic curriculum. accepted to NYC’s most competi- for Summer ● Music & Movement, Arts & Crafts MMS opens its doors for children 3 tive schools. Students participate in ● Language development years old to 6th grade and is dedi- Second Language Instruction, Session! Performing Arts, Yoga, and Visual Art ● End-Of-Camp Talent Show cated to providing an enriching and challenging educational environ- Study. First-time visitors are unfailingly Optional Programs: ment where each child is encour- impressed with the self-discipline, Ice Skating • Bowling • Physique Swimming • Gymnastics aged to grow to his or her fullest confidence and academic talents of even our youngest children. 347 East 55th St. • 212.223.4630 • montessorischoolny.com potential academically, emotionally, and socially. At MSM, we carry Dr. Montessori’s
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24 Manhattan Family • May 2015 Special Advertising Section Montessori At Battery Park Montessori Directory We encourage independent, traditional philosophy throughout 212-665-1600 or www. thoughtful learners to interact our local and international pro- twinparks.org with nature respectfully. grams and communities through Twin Parks Montessori Schools our extensive Community Outreach, (TPMS) are accredited by the dedicated Parents’ Association, and American Montessori Society, the generous scholarship fund. Middle States Commission and Children experience are affiliates schools of Columbia Land Air Water presentations The Montessori University. TPMS provide nurturing, outside in the sun, School of New York child-centered settings for children ages 3 months-6 years. TPMS are International committed to fostering a community next to the Hudson River. 347 E. 55th St. - Sutton Place, of lifelong learners using proven They learn through movement, the importance of which Manhattan Montessori methodology. Problem Dr. Montessori stressed. Our space has no walls nor doors; 212-223-4630 or www. solving and creativity are empha- children are free to take their learning wherever it goes, with montessorischoolny.com sized along with age-appropriate In a lovingly and carefully prepared academic subjects. TPMS are a fluidity to each day that enhances growth. environment, early learners are among Manhattan’s most spacious Our teachers are thrilled to observe each child’s interactions encouraged to explore individual preschools, offering rich and varied with the Montessori materials in our unique environment. activities, each at his own pace, and environments— from individual As passionate guides, they follow best practices so each child to grow in self esteem and inde- activity tables to open floor areas can reach their potential and love learning. pendence. The open classroom with promoting group interaction, from mixed age groups is more like life, the quiet areas for independent and children learn to do better each interests to the abundance of the day competing with themselves Schools’ glorious backyards: Central rather than responding to the pres- and Riverside Parks. Each of these sures of competing with others their environments invites exploration, age. A unique summer program discovery and fully meets the devel- offers a balance of continued learn- opmental needs of young children. ing and outdoor activities ranging from educational theme-based field Morningside trips to group sports activities. To ensure a well-rounded experience, Montessori School children enjoy music and move- 251 W. 100th St., NYC 10025 ment, arts and crafts, and a foreign 212-316-1555 or www. language as well as water play and morningsidemontessori.org swimming. For elementary children, Morningside Montessori School is and advanced preschoolers, there a preschool for children ages 2-5 is also individual academic tutor- years offering a nurturing environ- ing available for rapid or average ment where children explore their learners for the gifted and talented love of learning and take their exams. Specialized High School first steps towards independence. Entrance exam preparation is avail- Morningside blends traditional able for our older students. The Montessori materials with non- Montessori School of New York Montessori elements of early child- International is currently enrolling hood education. A vibrant faculty, for both summer and fall admis- formally trained, is the backbone sions. Call to schedule an interview. of the MMS education. A parent cooperative, MMS values an active Twin Parks partnership between home and Mention the Montessori Schools school, parent and teacher. Within Write to Manhattan Family the community, our parents make [email protected] Montessori Guide Central Park Montessori School get to know and value each other, and receive 1 W. 91st St, NYC 10024 investing themselves in the institu- to setup a visit. a FREE trial 212-595-2000 tion and modeling for the children. Park West Montessori Our commitment is to inspire a love enrichment class. 435 Central Park West, NYC of learning throughout a lifespan, to 10025 teach children to engage with oth- 212-678-6072 ers in a meaningful way and to see themselves as proactive members of Riverside Montessori 21 South End Avenue | New York, NY 10280 | 212.235.2320 | greenivy.com 202 Riverside Dr., NYC 10025 the planet.
Special Advertising Section May 2015 • Manhattan Family 25 “Yes,” he answered. “I thought that was you. You haven’t changed a bit. Patrick Hemp- fing, class of 1978. I had you for typ- ing in high school.,” I volunteered. After I exchanged pleasantries with the teacher I hadn’t seen for 36 years, I asked, “Guess what I do for a living?” Before he could answer I blurted out, “I’m a writer. I can still type 70 words a minute.” To be hon- est, this may have been a slight over- statement, though I am proficient with the keyboard. I filled Mr. Fuhrman in on all the jobs I’ve performed since I took his class. He smiled when I told him that, a few weeks earlier, I thought about him when I instructed my daughter to “place her fingers on the home row keys.” I’ve been trying to teach her to type instead of peck. As our meeting concluded, I thanked him for making a difference in my life. I’m not sure which of us enjoyed our chance meeting in the hospital more, but I know we both cherished the moment. Months have passed since that week-long visit to the hospital, and I am thankful that Mom is doing bet- ter. She turned 80 in November and is as feisty as ever. After her hospi- Thank you — at 70 tal stint, she spent three weeks in rehab. Much to her dismay, she had to re-take her driver’s test before she could drive again. She set a goal, took the test, and passed. Thank words per minute you, Mom, for the great lesson on perseverance. worried” summed up my emotional Jessie, the next time you’re faced She taught me Cherish The week. I pondered the role reversal with a challenge and feel like saying, from my younger years as I brushed “I can’t,” think of your Mom Maw and typing in high MoMenTs Mom’s hair and fed her ice chips, her driver’s test. You can do it. I also broth, and Jell-O. Mom just peeled want you to always keep a thankful school — and and cut bananas for my morning heart and express your gratitude By Patrick HemPfing cereal. Now, I had to excite her about with warm hugs and kind words, I finally got the tray of clear liquids delivered to spoken, written in cursive, or typed, hank you: two words, only her hospital room. All the times she regardless of how fast you can press a chance to eight letters. “Thanks” could held a tissue to my nose and said, the keys. We can’t all have Mr. Furh- T cut it to a single word. Heck, “blow,” pinching, in my opinion, too man as our typing teacher. express my sometimes words aren’t even needed hard, came to mind when I became Happy Mother’s Day, mom. I’m — a warm embrace, held hand, or the holder of the tissue and issued grateful you’ve been here for 80 gentle forehead kiss are effective the command. years. Thank you for the lessons you gratitude nonverbal ways to show apprecia- The “Fall Risk” sign posted out- taught me, and drive safely. Maybe tion. Of course, it is even more spe- side her hospital room took me back one day, you’ll bump into your road cial when “thanks” is followed by “I to the days when I held my out- test examiner, not with your car, I love you.” stretched arms for my daughter, Jes- hope, and have a chance to thank Last July, I drove 15 hours to Penn- sie, to prevent my toddler from fall- her for putting you at ease as you sylvania for my mother’s serious op- ing. Now my ailing mom needed the took your first driving test in de- eration. It hasn’t seemed that long assistance. How did the years go so cades. Until next month, remember since Mom combed my hair to get me fast? to cherish the moments. ready for school. Luckily since she One day, after Mom had finished Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year pro- drove the school bus (for 42 years), her unappetizing lunch, I headed to fessional career in banking, accounting, my chances of missing it were min- the hospital cafeteria. As I walked and auditing before he became a father iscule. Somehow, those school days down the hallway, I saw an elderly at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, had long passed and now my tough, man with a cane who looked familiar. stay-at-home dad, and writer. Follow him energetic mother was frail. I stopped and hesitantly asked, “Mr. at www.facebook.com/patricklhempfing The words “stressed, fatigued, and Furhman?” and on Twitter @PatrickHempfing.
26 Manhattan Family • May 2015 Room for debate BY SHNIEKA L. JOHNSON debating for children are numerous. graphic of the participants? The New York Young debaters often earn better EF: The majority of our students he New York City Urban De- grades than their peers and have are Hispanic Americans and African City Urban bate League is for all ages, higher attendance rates in school. Americans, about 80 percent His- T and welcomes children from They are also more likely to be col- panic and African Americans, and 20 Debate League second to 12th grade. The art of de- lege and career ready — which is a percent Asian Americans, European bate showcases the academic ben- goal of the New York State Common Americans. Ages are elementary efits of extracurricular activities, Core. Students organically work on to high school, with majority being gives students and adds to children’s skills in writ- their ability to think critically and middle school, so I’d say roughly ing, reading, speaking and listening. problem solve, research, write, com- ages 7 to 20 years old. a voice — and Each of these skills is important for municate, collaborate and think cre- SJ: What life skills does debate academic achievement, especially atively. Students that participate in lend itself to? a lot more under the New York State Common debate are seemingly more prepared EF: Debate is the most rigorous Core Standards, and increases their than their peers to perform well academic program since Ancient ability to take notes, collaborate, on standardized tests in the areas Greece. It teaches students public question, organize and research. of English, reading, math and sci- speaking, critical thinking, reading, Programs such as debate are also ence. Graduation rates and college writing, questioning, researching proven to influence children’s inter- attendance rates are also notable for and every other academic skill. It ests in college, career, and civic suc- young debaters — around 90 per- also teaches every academic subject cess — making them more likely to cent of graduate high school on time — from philosophy to economics to vote, volunteer for a campaign, or and go on to attend college. international affairs to ethnic stud- run for public office. Most recently, New York City de- ies. Students basically receive a col- The positive benefits of baters swept nearly all the divisions lege education through debate. And of the State Championships. Public so it’s the best preparation for col- high school Brooklyn Tech swept lege, career and civic success. Novice, Junior Varsity, and Varsity SJ: How can parents get their kids Policy Debate Divisions! The team involved? included Dante DeBlasio and Sam- EF: Parents can ask their school uel Eluto, who were undefeated and to start a debate team. All our pro- placed first for Varsity Policy De- grams are free for New York City bate. public schools. Additionally, we Want a program in your child’s offer a debate club that meets nearly school? The city’s debate leagues every Saturday. are free for all public schools and are SJ: How do you start a program Common Core aligned. There is out- at a local school if they do not have reach for each school by master de- one? bate coaches as well as year-round EF: We train teachers with out- teacher professional development, reach, workshops, curriculum, and resource availability, and online lessons on being a debate coach. support. The mission is to sup- We have a program director who port debate education programs. visits schools to support teams. We The programming is offered every also have workshops and additional week. There are championships in training every Saturday through the both the fall and the school year and then summer de- spring. I spoke to New bate institutes available for teachers York City Urban De- all throughout the summer. bate League executive What do you want parents to (Top) Students, left, Dante director, Erik Fogel to know about this initiative? DeBlasio and Samuel Eluto learn more about the EF: Everyone can be a great de- (second from right) cel- benefits of debate. bater. All students should have ac- ebrate a win with teach- Shnieka Johnson: cess to the best debate education ers James Bathurst and How long has the pro- opportunities to learn college-level Adam Stevens. (Right) Starr gram been around? skills, learn about the world around Erik Fogel: Arroyo, Stephanie Nyame, We were them, and learn the skills to advo- founded in Septem- cate and change the world around Yaira Brito, Erik Fogel ber 2011 because less them. (teacher), Ashley Meija of than one percent of the Shnieka Johnson is an education con- the Bronx School for Law, city’s Title I low-income sultant and freelance writer. She is based Government and justice schools and students in Manhattan where she resides with her celebrate a win. had access to debate. husband and son. Contact her via her SJ: What is the demo- website: www.shniekajohnson.com.
May 2015 • Manhattan Family 27 ‘Angels’ among us By Shnieka L. JohnSon was founded five years prior in 1866 two reasons: to celebrate the 150th Musical and was one of the first schools to anniversary of the end of the Civil ew York City Children’s The- educate freed slaves. War, and to celebrate its author, uses song ater will present “A Band of The 70-minute musical includes Myla Churchill, who died this sum- N Angels” this spring, com- traditional African-American spiri- mer, and to whom the production is memorating the 10-year anniver- tuals performed a cappella. The dedicated. to shed light sary of the musical that was writ- show is directed by award-winning SJ: H ow si m i l a r i s M y l a C hu rc h i l l’s ten by the late playwright Myla actor and director Colman Do- script to the children’s book by on African- Churchill in 2005. The play itself mingo, who most recently appeared Deborah Hopkinson? is an adaptation of Deborah Hop- as Civil Rights leader Ralph Aber- BZ: Deborah Hopkinson’s book kinson’s children’s book with the nathy in the film “Selma.” I spoke to traces the history of Fisk University American same title. the creative team behind “A Band and the first group of Jubilee Sing- The show centers upon a charac- of Angels” (Barbara Zinn Krieger, ers who saved their school by in- history ter named Ella, who is transported creative director, and Domingo) to troducing a white audience to spiri- back in time, where she meets a learn more about the show and tuals. That story line forms the cen- college a capaella group, “The Jubi- what will make it a family outing to ter of the play. In order to engage lee Singers,” and gains a newfound remember. 21st-century pre-teens, Myla added appreciation for history and educa- Shnieka Johnson: Why was it a framing device. Ella, a modern tion. The new production celebrates important for you to bring the work tween, doesn’t think education is “The Jubilee Singers,” a group that to stage at this time? important, so her Aunt Beth sends was established in 1871 at Fisk Uni- Barbara Zinn krieger: New York her on a “Sankofa,” a trip back in versity in Nashville, Tennessee, and City Children’s Theater is reviving time to take the place of her great- still exists today. Fisk University “A Band of Angels” this season for great-grandmother, Ella Sheppard,
28 Manhattan Family • May 2015 one of the original Jubilee sing- dren’s Theater has shows for 3 to ers. Modern Ella experiences the 7 year olds as well as 8 to adult, hardships of those first Fisk stu- the suggested age for “A Band of dents and realizes how important Angels.” education really is. • • • SJ: What is the timeline for a A chat with director, Colman production such as this? Domingo. BZ: In the fall of 2014, Col- Shnieka Johnson: Compare man Domingo agreed to direct Myla Churchill’s script to the chil- the show. Kristen Rosenfeld, dren’s book by Deborah Hopkin- our music director, was soon on son. board, followed by the designers. Colman Domingo: Myla’s play Digital We auditioned actor and singers has more of a theatrical narra- in March, and April 6 rehears- tive, which is als started. “A Band of Angels” very impor- opened on April 25. tant to convey- SJ: Was Fisk University in- ing a story to volved in any way (historical ref- the stage. She erence, etc)? maintains the BZ: We have a promotional integrity of the partnership for the revival with book but gives Fisk University, Fisk University it a heightened CAMP New York Alumni, and UNCF, The sense of theatricality. United Negro College Fund. Hope- SJ: What is the timeline for your fully, many of those folks will at- cast and production team? tend performances throughout CD: We rehearse for two-and-a- the run. half weeks, eight hours a day, six SJ: What community and days a week. school outreach is taking place SJ: Do you think that there is with this particular show? great parallel between the show GUIDE BZ: We are providing free tick- and current events? ets to 1,100 children in Title 1 CD: The play touches on the ur- schools, schools where there is gency of knowing the collective his- a high percentage of low-income tory of disenfranchised people in families. Each class receives a our country and ways of survival. Resource Guide, which helps the SJ: What personal message do teachers prepare the children to you want parents to know about 2015 see the show. The book is avail- this show? able in the lobby, and many CD: That the play is not only a groups come early so teachers lesson about history, but fun, intel- can read the book to their classes ligent and not a “children’s show,” before the performance. where the story is dumbed down in SJ: What do you want parents any way. It is savvy for smart kids. to know about this show? SJ: What is your take on the BZ: Parents can enjoy the show importance of bringing kids to the- as much as their children, as there atre early on? is a mix of adult and young char- CD: Giving kids more tools to acters. The story is full of excite- imagine, to create, to have their ment as well as history that will minds blown by taking an empty appeal to kids this time around space and taking them to a place as much as it did 10 years ago. or time that is unimaginable is im- The gorgeous music, sung in tight perative for our survival. Art is the harmony, is abundant. Many spiri- parachute that might save us all. tuals such as “This Little Light Of • • • Mine” are well known, and others, “A Band of Angels” at Theater 3 just as beautiful and inspiring, [311 W. 43rd Street between Eighth will be a joy to experience, per- and Ninth aves in Times Square, (646) haps for the first time. 250 –1178 , www.nycchildrenstheater. SJ: Explain the importance of org] April 25 through May 10, Satur- bringing kids to theatre early on. days and Sundays at 2 and 4 pm. $25 BZ: The live theater experience regular seating, $45 premium (pre- is unlike any other. Engagement reserved, first and second seating). with live actors creates an indel- Appropriate ages 8 and up. Check it out on ible experience for the audience Shnieka Johnson is an education that is not soon forgotten. If we consultant and freelance writer. She is want our kids to enjoy theater as based in Manhattan where she resides nyparenting.com grown-ups, I believe they should with her husband and son. Contact her be exposed as soon as possible, via her website: www.shniekajohnson. which is why New York City Chil- com.
May 2015 • Manhattan Family 29 HealtHy eating Raw foods for children ating fresh, whole foods is ap- digestive tract may not be able to pealing, especially at this time extract nutrients out of raw foods as E of year. Some people take this well as an adult’s tract. Good sense fresh concept a step further by con- “Raw fruits and veggies require suming all of their foods uncooked. a bit more digestion,” says Skylar eatinG In other words, raw. Griggs, a pediatric dietitian at Bos- Christine M. PaluMbo, rD Supporters of the Raw Foods Diet ton Children’s Hospital. “Think of argue that once food is cooked, its chewing a cooked carrot versus a enzymes — which they claim are es- baby carrot.” sential for optimal digestion — are Some nutrients, such as the caro- gone. But in reality, it’s the body and tenoids found in carrots, sweet po- not the food that supplies the en- tato, and kale, are actually enhanced zymes needed for digestion. by the cooking process. The heat A raw diet essentially excludes that softens the vegetables is break- entire food groups such as cooked ing down the cell walls, making the meat, poultry, fish, beans, and le- nutrients more available. gumes. Nutrients that are hard to Some raw diets include raw meat come by include protein, vitamin D, or fish, as well as unpasteurized iron, calcium, zinc, and B vitamins. milk, yogurt, and cheese. Anemia is a real possibility. “Uncooked fare, especially raw Anecdotal reports suggest that meat, poultry, and raw dairy prod- children who have raw diets are con- ucts, come with a myriad of health stantly hungry and can be underde- risks which include food-borne ill- veloped for their age. ness,” Griggs says. “My views are in Another concern is that a child’s line with the American Academy of Pediatrics, which discourages the use of raw or unpasteurized milk and milk products as the health claims Seedy date balls related to drinking raw milk have not been verified by scientific evi- INGREDIENTS: dence.” 8 x 8-inch sheet of parchment paper It can be a challenge to follow this 6 Medjool dates, pitted and halved diet over the long run. What about 6 dried plums (aka prunes), pitted birthday parties, sleepovers, and and cut into 1/2-inch pieces other social events? Will your child 1/2 cup raw sunflower seeds be left out of the fun? Keep in mind, 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds a child who has been fed only raw 1/4 cup chocolate chips foods may struggle with appropriate 1/4 cup fresh or frozen (and thawed) eating behaviors as he gains more blueberries independence. 1 teaspoon cacao powder Eating raw takes a lot of work, cre- ativity, and careful planning. 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt “Parents should speak with their 3 tablespoons water pediatric care provider before their 1/4 cup chia seeds child starts on a raw diet,” cautions DIRECTIONS: Line an 8 x 8-inch- shape it into a ball. Place the ball on able plastic bag and keep frozen until Griggs. “The child’s growth should square baking pan with parchment the prepared pan. Repeat until you have ready to pack or eat. be measured closely and micro and paper. Combine the dates, plums, used up all the date-plum mixture. macro nutrient deficiencies should NUTRITION FACTS: (1 date ball): sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, Pour the chia seeds into a small be monitored.” 80 calories, 12 g carbohydrates (7 g chocolate chips, blueberries, cacao bowl. Roll each ball in the chia seeds Christine Palumbo is a Naperville- powder, salt, and water in a food and place it back on the prepared sugar), 2 g protein, 3 g fat, 0 choles- registered dietitian nutritionist who is a processor or blender and process pan. Place the balls in the freezer terol, 20 mg sodium, 3 g fiber. new Fellow of the American Academy until almost smooth. to chill for 2 hours. Wrap each ball Used with permission from Sweet Debbie’s Or- of Nutrition and Dietetics. Follow her take about 1 tablespoon of the date individually in parchment paper or ganic Treats: Allergy-Free & Vegan Recipes by on Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook at plum mixture, and with wet hands, bakery tissue paper, place in a seal- Debbie Adler. Christine Palumbo Nutrition, or Chris@ ChristinePalumbo.com.
30 Manhattan Family • May 2015 ADVICEAdvice Wills and your kids My spouse and I have recently had You can also split it into thirds, or children. If something happens to both give the trustee discretion to keep of us, we want to leave our money to the property remaining in trust for our children. What are our options since tax purposes or creditor protection they are still very young? purposes. If you are drafting your will when your children are young, n New York, if you pass away you may considering implementing a ASK AN while the child is a minor, and combination of these two trusts. I you do not have a will, that child The specific terms are driven will receive his or her entire inheri- by your own particular objectives ATTORNEY tance once the he reaches the age and concerns, which are different ALISON ARDEN BESUNDER, of 18. However most parents do not for every person. It all depends on ESQ. want their 18-year-old child to inherit your family’s situation financially their entire parent or parents’ estate parent would by not requiring the and your children’s ability to handle at such a young age because the child trustee to keep separate records for money. A good way to work through may not be mature enough to handle each child and not requiring distri- these decisions is to assess the esti- what could be a sizeable amount of butions to each child are exactly mated value of your estate (including money. This is particularly true for a the same. With such a trust it may life insurance), how much money child or children who have suffered be most appropriate to make the would be in your net estate (your such an unspeakable loss at a young trustee a different person from who gross estate less any major liabilities age. For that reason, it is important to you are appointing the guardian of like a mortgage). Consider how many have a will in place and create trusts your children to ensure a check on children you have or plan to have, to best suit your needs. the trustee’s distributions. and how much money is estimated A Last Will and Testament con- The second option is to create a to be available for each child. tains a “Minor’s Trust” that is in- separate trust for each child. This For a larger trust, you might con- tended to hold any property left to a trust is more appropriate for older sider multiple distributions of princi- minor child — defined by you in the children or young adults because pal over a longer period of time. will as someone under any age — 18, each child will have different needs For a smaller trust, one or two 25, 30, and so on. and expenses of greater variance distributions is probably more ef- In general there are two types and at different times. At your death ficient. of structures. The first is called a your estate is divided equally among As he grows, you may find you “pot trust” or “sprinkle trust,” which your children and each child gets have a very responsible child and means that all the money goes into his or her own trust. Most likely you so you may not need to spread the the “pot” to be used for the benefit will have the same trustee for all the distributions as far out; or you may of all children who are beneficiaries trusts, but the money is kept in sepa- find you do not think he could handle of the trust. rate sub-trusts for each beneficiary. a large amount of money at one time The pot trust usually grants the This allows different options and so you may want to consider delaying trustee full discretion to make distri- scenarios regarding distributions the distributions until a later age. butions for any reason, or imposes from the trust by the trustee. Usu- Regardless of what you select, an ascertainable standard such as ally the trustee has a standard for you, your plan, and your children “health, education, maintenance, discretionary distributions of prin- will all be changing as your chil- and support” (sometimes referred cipal, such as “for health, education, dren mature. It is critical to review to as a “Hems” standard). This type and maintenance.” these and other provisions every of trust is most appropriate for when You may also want to include dis- few years to ensure that your plan you have two or more young chil- tributions of income and-or principal continues to be suited to your cur- dren who would live with a guard- (the corpus) at one or more specified rent situation. ian. In some respects, a pot trust ages to the child directly. There are Alison Arden Besunder is the founding is more manageable for a trustee various options. A common meth- attorney of the law firm of Arden Besun- and is more appropriate because odology is to provide for half at age der P.C., where she assists new and not- the majority of the expenses will 25 and the remainder at age 30. You so-new parents with their estate planning be attributable to the children as a can also make those distributions needs. Her firm assists clients in Man- whole, such as food, or are expenses contingent on graduation from an hattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and all children would benefit from, such accredited college, and delay those Suffolk Counties. You can find Besunder as summer camp. This type of trust distributions to ages 30 and 35 (or on Twitter @estatetrustplan and on her allows the trustee to act much as a later) if they do not graduate college. website at www.besunderlaw.com.
Disclaimer: This column is provided by Arden Besunder P.C. and New York Parenting Media as a public service to inform readers of legal issues. It is not intended to advise. Since legal issues vary with an individual’s situation and needs, one should consult with an attorney. It is impossible to cover all aspects of the law in an article. Please be advised that the laws are constantly changing. The content in this article reflects the current law. Nothing contained in this article is intended as advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and the firm. Individual consultation with an attorney is required to determine the specific facts and circumstances of any particular situation. A written retainer agreement between you and the firm is required before any attorney-client relationship may be created. Circular 230 Disclosure Notice: To ensure compliance with Treasury Department rules governing tax practice, we inform you that any advice contained herein (including in any attachment) (1) was not written and is not intended to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty that may be imposed on the taxpayer, and (2) may not be used in con- nection with promoting, marketing or recommending to another person any transaction or matter addressed herein. May 2015 • Manhattan Family 31 PARENTING
PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION 2015 Bronze Award Winner Mother’s Day gifts Editorial Awards Competition efore you go wracking your brain and scouring stores for B the ideal Mother’s Day gift, you might want to consider what mothers really want. While the typi- cal offerings may please some, it’s the extra special thought that goes a long way. And every mom is dif- JUST WRITE ferent, so the key is finding what the mom in your life values. Hint: It’s not MOM flowers. DANIELLE SULLIVAN Here’s a list of five things that mothers want and need, and not just on Mother’s Day: Sleep. Ask any mom and depend- ing on the age(s) of her children, she can fill you in on her exact amount of sleep deprivation. Lack of sleep often starts somewhere in pregnancy and it ends — well, I don’t know when it ends, or if it actually does. I am still sleep-deprived and all my kids have been out of diapers for years. NOT flowers. I recently read somewhere (can’t remember where — see #1) that moms do not want flowers for Mother’s Day. The article said it was a useless gift, often a last- minute thought, and an easy pur- chase to fulfill the obligation of even getting a gift. So unless the mom in your life really, really loves flowers, I’d skip this one. And shout-out to hubby, my allergies are horrendous, so please pay careful attention to this suggestion. Something unique. Meaning something that says mom, and your particular wife, girlfriend, partner, or mother — not what is mass-mar- keted to stores for the droves of women who are mothers. Sure, an over-the-top frilly pink hat or the newest kitchen gadget might satisfy a lot of moms, but it would hon- her child, in the form of a locket or just say it in a well-planned out estly tick me off. It’s just not me. charm, in the piece of jewelry. There time and place (think nice dinner And every mom wants something is nothing sweeter than being given that she didn’t have to cook over a that says you know her, you get her a symbol of your baby that you can bottle of wine). taste, you understand her likes and keep with you and wear. Being a mother is a gift in itself, dislikes, and didn’t merely settle for Words. OK, this might seem too but nothing feels better than having a gift at a stand in the mall. For me, easy, but really it can be more the person in your life that you love a live Dave Matthews Band CD that I meaningful than you may think. the most celebrate your unique life don’t already have, a new computer Every mom likes to hear and needs as a mom. gadget, or a great book would do to know that you think she is doing Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, just fine. a good job, appreciate every- has worked as a writer and editor in the Jewelry almost always works. thing she does day in and day out, parenting world for more than 10 years. But again, know her taste. Does she and value her as a partner and a Sullivan also writes about pets and par- like silver, gold, or white gold? Does mother. You can write it in a letter enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find Sul- she prefer earrings or a necklace? or a card. If you are creative, you livan on her blogs, Just Write Mom and Try combining a remembrance of can pen a poem. You can simply Some Puppy To Love.
32 Manhattan Family • May 2015 !”
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May 2015 • Manhattan Family 33 Calendarmay
“Chuggington Live! The Great sive trains with working features Make tracks for Rescue Adventure” is choo-choo- and movements — bringing the ing into the Beacon Theater on May Chuggington characters to life on 16 and 17. the stage. This premier live action show, “Chuggington Live! The Great ‘Chuggington’ produced by Life Like Touring and Rescue Adventure” on May 16 and Ludorum, is based on the popu- 17 at 11 am, 2 pm, and 5 pm. Tickets lar TV show and gives young fans range from $40-$75. the opportunity to experience the Beacon Theatre [2124 Broadway at great adventure of the Chugging- W. 74th Street on the Upper West Side; ton trainees, Wilson, Brewster, and (866) 858–0008; www.beacontheatre. Koko. This show presents impres- com].
34 Manhattan Family • May 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar
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Fri, May 1 In Manhattan Juggling workshop: ; Noon–1 pm; Free. Test your coordination with jug- gling lessons. All skill levels welcome. Equipment provided. Fencing workshop: Bryant Park, 42nd Street and Avenue of the Amer- icas; (212) 768–4242; www.bryant- park.org; 1:30 to 2:30 pm; Free. En Garde and take a stab at les-
sons in this modern sport. Must Whitney Museum of Art be 16 years old. Pre-registration required. “The Trials of Alice in Won- Block party for the new Whitney derland”: TADA! Youth Theater, Opening Day and Block Party at including map making, karaoke, a May 2 from 10:30 am to 10 pm. Free. 15 West 28th St. between Broadway the Whitney Museum of Art takes performance workshop, and a new Reservations strongly suggested. and Fifth Avenue; (212) 252–1619 X4; www.tadatheater.com; 7 pm; $15 place on May 2. exhibit, “America is Hard to See,” Whitney Museum of Art [99 Gan- ($25 adults). The Whitney Museum is cel- which includes the work of Robert sevoort St. between West and Wash- Celebrating the 150th anniversary ebrating its move to a new lo- Bechtle (pictured). Best of all, ev- ington streets in the Meatpacking Dis- of the Lewis Carroll work, Tada will cation with a fantabulous block eryone is invited to attend! trict; (212) 570–3633; www.whitney. present this production by talented party chock full of fun activities, Opening Day and Block Party on org] kids.
Sat, May 2 Meadow Loop; www.nycgovparks. The annual event helps raise funds seum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St. org; 11 am – 3 pm; Free. to maintain Hippo Playground. Hot at Hudson Street; (212) 274–0986; In Manhattan Come to the Randall’s Island Park dogs, jumping castle, pony rides, www.cmany.org; Noon–4 pm; $85 Pitch, Hit and Run: Chelsea Park, festival and enjoy face painting, kite petting zoo and more. children ($175 adults; $375; early West 24th St. and Tenth Avenue; flying, butterfly release, crafts, games Birding basics: Charles A Dana bird family package). (212) 408–0243; 9 am – 3 pm; Free. and more. Discovery Center, West 111 St. and Children 7 to 14 years old compete It’s the 2015 Spring Benefit spe- On-a-Wing festival: Belvedere Fifth Avenue; (212) 860–1378; www. in this fun sport to see who can hit cial story time with Neil Patrick Har- Castle - Central Park, 79th St. Trans- nycgovparks.org; 10 am – 11 am; the farthest, run the fastest and pitch ris and Max Casella. Join in for a verse and West Drive; (212) 776– Free. the most strikes. creative day of art making for ev- 1069; http;//www.nycgovparks.org; Learn about the bird habitat and eryone, bring your drum, raise your Block Party: Whitney Museum of Noon–3 pm; Free. migration spots in the park. Art, 99 Gansevoort St.; (212) 570– Kick off the migration season and voice and immerse yourself in spe- Macy’s story time: New-York 3633; htt;;www.whitney.org; 10:30 search for the warblers, songbirds, cial performances and art making Historical Society, 170 Central Park am–10 pm; Free. butterflies, birds of prey and more. workshops. The Witney Museum is celebrat- West at 77th Street; (212) 873–3400; Irish Arts Dance Festival: Pier ing its move with a block party and nyhistory.org; 11:30 am; Free with the inaugural exhibition “America is Sun, May 3 museum admission. 1- Riverside Park South, West 70th Hard to See” Activities include kara- In Manhattan From the seventeenth century to St. and Riverside Blvd.; 311; www. the twenty-first, through fiction and nycgovparks.org; 1 pm – 7 pm; Free. oke, map making and a performance Hippo fair: Hippo Playground - through fact, hear tales of NYC and workshop. Reservations recom- Riverside Park, West 91st Street and The annual day-long celebration the people who made it great. Ages mended for the event. West End Avenue; (212) 870–3070; features Irish dance and culture with 3-7. Cherry Blossom Festival: Urban www.nycgovparks.org; 10 am – 4 traditional music. Farms, Randall’s Island Park, Wards pm; Free. Come make Art: Children’s Mu- Continued on page 36 May 2015 • Manhattan Family 35 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar
Continued from page 35 Wed, May 6 In Manhattan “The Trials of Alice in Won- derland”: 10 am and noon. TADA! Youth Theater. See Friday, May 1.
Fri, May 8 In Manhattan “Hatched”: The Ailey Citigroup Studio Theater, 405 W. 55th St. at Ninth Avenue; (212) 715–1914; www. treehouseshakers.com; 11 am; $20. Children up to 6 years old will enjoy this story of a newborn chick who emerges from her shell to a strange, and busy world. The chick is met by a feisty old rooster, a newly born calf learning to walk, a baby lamb and a noisy nest of baby birds. Performed through move- ment, music, puppets, and very little human dialogue. Fencing workshop: 1:30 to 2:30 pm. Bryant Park. See Friday, May 1. Inspirational concert for freedom Learn about the the Pursuit of ety that explores the anti-slavery Sullivan lon oboe, Ben Baron on Sat, May 9 Freedom and enjoy a concert by movement from the end of the clarinet, Barbara Oldham on horn, In Manhattan the Quintet of the Americas at St. American Revolution to the early and Gina Cuffari on bassoon. Craft Fair: Chelsea, West 21st St. Mark’s Church on May 10. days of Reconstruction through The Pursuit of Freedom concert at between Eighth and Ninth avenues; This concert features music re- photographs, census records, and St. Mark’s Church [131 East 10th St. (917) 589–8893; www.twofairladies. lated to the exhibition in “Pursuit local newspapers. and Second Avenue in the Bowery; com; 11 am–4 pm; Free. of Freedom” currently on display The performance features the (718) 230–5189; www.quintet.org/con- Two Fair Ladies present over 60 at the Brooklyn Historical Soci- talents of Karla Moe on flute, Matt certs.html] May 10 at 3:30 pm. Free. handmade artisans featuring hand- made jewelry, clothing, accessories for kids and adults, art, ceramics and concerts.html; 3:30 pm; Free. more. Seventh annual event benefits Sun, May 10 Fri, May 15 This concert performed by Quintet PS 11. In Manhattan of the Americas features music re- In Manhattan Urban appreciation day: Indian Birding basics: 10 am – 11 am. lated to the exhibition in “Pursuit of Fencing workshop: 1:30 to 2:30 Road Lawn - Inwood HIll Park, West Charles A Dana Discovery Center. See Freedom” currently on display at the pm. Bryant Park. See Friday, May 1. Sunday, May 3. 218th St. and Indian Road; (212) Brooklyn Historical Society. “The Trials of Alice in Wonder- 628–2345; www.nycgovparks.org; Macy’s story time: 11:30 am. Further Afield land”: 7 pm. TADA! Youth Theater. Noon–3 pm; Free. New-York Historical Society. See Sun- See Friday, May 1. Learn about squirrels, coyotes, day, May 3. Mother’s Day brunch: 10 am–6 skunks and more from a rehabilita- pm. New York Botanical Garden. See tion wildlife expert. Tycoon Dog: Holly Plaza - Washing- Saturday, May 9. Sat, May 16 ton Square Park, McDougal St. and In Manhattan Playdate: West Harlem Piers Park, Fifth Avenue; http;//www.nycgov- West 125th St. and Henry Hudson parks.org; 1 – 3 pm; Free. Thurs, May 14 “Chuggington Live!”: Beacon Parkway; http;//www.nycgovparks. Theatre, 2124 Broadway at W. 74th Children enjoy the music. In Manhattan org; 1 pm to 4 pm; Free. Street; (866) 858–0008; 11 am, 2 pm Enjoy the outdoors with a kiddie Meet the fledglings: New-York Far, Far Away: Children’s Museum and 5 pm; $40-$75. party featuring entertainers, arts and Historical Society DiMenna Children’s of the Arts, 103 Charlton St. at Hud- The Great Rescue Adventure crafts and more. History Museum, 170 Central Park son Street; (212) 274–0986; www. makes its NYC Premiere. The musical West at West 77th Street; (212) 873– cmany.org; 10 am–4 pm; Free with adventure is based on the children’s Further Afield 3400; nyhistory.org; 2 pm to 4 pm; museum admission. popular TV series. $11 per child ($5 member children; Mother’s Day brunch: New York The exhibit considers the possibility Skate board workshop: Skate $19 per adult (free adult member). Botanical Garden, 200th St. and of alternate worlds,dreamscapes and Park -, 108th St. and Riverside Drive; Kazimiroff Blvd., The Bronx; (718) The Wild Bird Fund offers children imagined landscapes– places where www.nycgovparks.org; Noon–5 pm; 817–8700; www.nybg.org; 10 am–6 a unique opportunity to feed the tiny adventures occur and fantasy takes Free. birds. pm; $30 ($27 student and seniors: over. The exhibit is open through All levels welcome bring your own $15 children 2 -12). The Pursuit of Freedom: St. Sept. 6. Opening day features fun gear - including helmet, elbow and Celebrate mom with live entertain- Mark’s Church, 131 East 10th St.; activities of art-making workshops knee pads for those over 18 years ment, games and outdoor fun. (718) 230–5189; www.quintet.org/ and much more. and wrist guards for skaters younger 36 Manhattan Family • May 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar than 18. Sat, May 30 CMA Kids: Art Miami NY, Pier 94 In Manhattan - 12th Ave. at 55th Street; (212) 274– Healthy running: Central Park, 0986; www.cmany.org; Noon–6 pm; 79th St. Transverse and West Free with advanced registration. Drive; www.nyrr.org/races-and- Hands-on art programming at Art events/2015/uae-healthy-kidney-10k; Miami NY for children 4 to 14 years 11:15 am; $10. old. Reservations suggested. Give your kids a chance to enjoy road racing at the Youth Running Se- Sun, May 17 ries at the UAE Healthy Kidney 10K race. Three groups include children In Manhattan 7 to 10 years old; 11 to 13 years old Birding basics: 10 am – 11 am. and 14 to 18 years old. pre-registra- Charles A Dana Discovery Center. See tion required. Sunday, May 3. “Chuggington Live!”: 11 am and Sun, May 31 2 pm. Beacon Theatre. See Saturday, In Manhattan May 16. Birding basics: 10 am – 11 am. Macy’s story time: 11:30 am. Charles A Dana Discovery Center. See New-York Historical Society. See Sun- Sunday, May 3. day, May 3. Macy’s story time: 11:30 am. Mamapalooza: Pier 1 - Riverside New-York Historical Society. See Sun- Park South, W. 70th St. and River- day, May 3. side Blvd.; www.nycgovparks.org; Emily Eagen and the Whistling Noon–5 pm; Free. Fun at the museum Wolves: Carnegie Hall - Resnick Celebrate mothers with music, Take a trip to Far, Far, Away dreamscapes, and imagined lands, Education Wing, 881 Seventh Ave. arts; gymboree play tent, crafts, and at W. 57th Street; (212) 247–7800; at the Children’s Museum of the places where adventures occur more. http:.//www.carnegiehall.org/forfam- Arts on May 14. and fantasy takes over. ilies; 2 pm; Free. CMA Kids: Noon–6 pm. Art Miami The new exhibit is open through Far, Far Away on May 14 from Carnegie Kids presents this musi- NY. See Saturday, May 16. Sept. 6, with opening day activi- 10 am to 4 pm. Children’s Museum cal innovator who sings and whistles “May The Force Be Jokes”: 208 ties including art-making work- of the Arts [103 Charlton St. at Hud- everything from early music to tradi- West 23rd St. between 7th and 8th shops and much more. Children son Street in SoHo; (212) 274–0986; tional Americana. avenues; (212) 877–6115; www.kid- of all ages will enjoy exploring www.cmany.org]. Free with museum Salt by Helen Frost: New-York sncomedy.com; 1 pm; $15. the possibility of alternate worlds, admission. Historical Society DiMenna Children’s From awkward situations to dodge History Museum, 170 Central Park balls in gym class, Kids ’N Comedy’s West at West 77th Street; (212) 873– presents New York’s best young Fri, May 22 Charles A Dana Discovery Center. See 3400; nyhistory.org; 3 pm to 5 pm; comics talking about how they’ve Sunday, May 3. Free with museum admission. used their wit to escape some In Manhattan Children 9 to 12 years old will sticky situations. Join us for a day of Fencing workshop: 1:30 to 2:30 Learn to ride: Bike Path, 135th St. enjoy listening to stories about chil- laughs. pm. Bryant Park. See Friday, May 1. and Hudson River Greenway; www. dren growing up in 1812 Indiana Ter- nycgovparks.org; 11 am to 4 pm; ritory. Then children visit the exhibit. “The Mantises are Flipping Free. Thurs, May 21 W.3”: 8 pm. St. Mark’s Church. See Thursday, May 21. Rangers teach children 5 years and Long-running In Manhattan older how to balance, steer and ride In Manhattan Locomotive lawn: Riverside Park a bike. Reservations required a lim- South, W. 70th Street and Riverside Sat, May 23 ited amount of bikes are available. The Butterfly Conservatory: American Museum of Natural His- Blvd.; www.nycgovparks.org; 10:30 In Manhattan Macy’s story time: 11:30 am. am – 11 am; Free. tory, Central Park West at West 79th Wildlife: Belvedere Castle in Central New-York Historical Society. See Sun- Street; (212) 769–5200; www.amnh. Bilingual birdies celebrate language Park, 79th St. Transverse and East day, May 3. org; Suggested admission $22 adults, and culture with music, dance, and Drive; (212) 628–2345; www.nycgov- $17 students/seniors, $12.50 children. puppetry. Held in Spanish, French, parks.org; 8 pm; Free. In the annual favorite, ‘Tropical Mandarin, Hebrew and English. Thurs, May 28 The park comes alive at night with Butterflies Alive in Winter’, up to 500 “The Mantises are Flipping activity of its nocturnal residents. In Manhattan live, free-flying tropical butterflies W.3”: St. Mark’s Church, 131 E. Take a walk with rangers to discover from the Americas, Africa, and Asia Locomotive lawn: 10:30 am – 11 10th Street; (866) 811–4111; www. their hiding places. Older teens. are housed in a vivarium that ap- am. Riverside Park South. See Thurs- bodystroiesfellion.org; 8 pm; $20 “The Mantises are Flipping proximates their natural habitat, in- day, May 21. ($15 for Dancespace members). W.3”: 8 pm. St. Mark’s Church. See cludes live flowering plants that serve Teresa Fellion Dance presents this Thursday, May 21. as nectar sources, and features con- unique performance derived from Fri, May 29 trolled artificial light, temperature, and humidity. her original work Mantises. Contrast- Sun, May 24 ing movements, upper and lower In Manhattan “Jack and the Beanstalk”: body dynamics and rhythms leave In Manhattan Fencing workshop: 1:30 to 2:30 Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater, the audience mesmerized. Birding basics: 10 am – 11 am. pm. Bryant Park. See Friday, May 1. Continued on page 38 May 2015 • Manhattan Family 37 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar
Continued from page 37 Just Drop In: Solomon R. Guggen- West 79th and West Dr; (212) 988– heim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave. at 9093; Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fri- 89th Street; (212) 423–3500; www. days, 10:30 am and noon, Wednes- guggenheim.org; Sunday, April 26, days, 10:30 am, noon, and 2:30 pm, 1 pm; Sunday, May 3, 1 pm; Sunday, Saturdays and Sundays, 1 pm, Now May 10, 1 pm; Sunday, May 17, 1 – Sun, June 28; $10; $7 children un- pm; Sunday, May 24, 1 pm; Sunday, der 12. May 31, 1 pm; Free with museum This fresh retelling of the Swed- admission. ish Cottage original production takes Children 3 to 10 years old explore Jack on an enchanting adventure up exhibit highlights through interactive a magical beanstalk. Jack encounters projects led by museum directors. the notorious Giant, Milford, whose Drop-In Art Workshop: The Jew- thieving ways have brought mis- ish Museum, 1109 5th Ave. at 92nd fortune upon Jack and his mother, St.; (212) 423–3200; thejewishmu- but with help from friends, he risks seum.org; Sundays, 1 – 4 pm, Now his life to take back what the Giant – Thurs, May 28; Free with museum stole. admission. Juggling workshop: Bryant Children, ages 3 and up, paint, Park, 42nd Street and Avenue of the draw, sculpt, or craft a work of art Americas; (212) 768–4242; www.bry- inspired by exhibitions on view. Proj- antpark.org; Weekdays, Noon–1 pm, ects explore new themes each week. beginning Fri, May 1; Free. Jazz For Kids: Jazz Standard, 116 Test your coordination with jug- East 27th St. at Park Avenue South; gling lessons. All skill levels welcome. (212) 576–2232; www.jazzstandard. Equipment provided. com; Sundays, 2–3 pm, Now – Sun, Exhibition: Pixelated, Sum of its May 17; Free, guests may give a $5 Pieces: Children’s Museum of the donation that benefits the Jazz Stan- Arts, 103 Charlton St. at Hudson dard Discovery Program. Street; (212) 274–0986; www.cmany. The talented children’s musicians org; Mondays and Wednesdays, of the The Jazz Standard Youth Or- Noon–5 pm, Thursdays and Fridays, chestra perform every Sunday (except Noon–6 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, for 12/21, 12/28 and 2/1). 10 am–5 pm, Now – Sun, May 3; Free Art and play: Robert F. Wag- with $11 museum admission. ner Park, Battery Park City; (212) This exhibition brings together 267–9700; http;//www.bpcparks. emerging and mid-career artists org; Mondays – Wednesdays, 10 am– whose work explores different means Kids can sew it up noon, beginning Mon, May 4; Free. of perception and brings together Preschoolers drop-in and play with visual artists whose works explore Take a stitch in time at the make a handcrafted gift. other toddlers, in this interactive play the intersection between art and Cross-Stitch Circle at the Dimenna Cross-Stitch Circle on Thurs- time on the grassy lawn. Sing and technology. Children’s History Museum, now days, now through June 25, from hear stories too. Little New-Yorkers: New-York through June 25. 3:30 to 5:30 pm. Free with mu- Parent and baby yoga: Nelson Historical Society, 170 Central Park This unique drop-in workshop seum admission. A. Rockefeller Park, Battery Park City; West at 77th Street; (212) 873–3400; allows children ages 6 years and DiMenna Children’s History Mu- www.bpcparks.org/event; Mondays, nyhistory.org; Tuesdays and Fridays, older to try their skills at one of seum at the New-York Historical Soci- 1 –2:15 pm and 2:30–3:45 pm, be- 3:30 pm, Now – Fri, June 26; Free the oldest forms of embroidery in ety [170 Central Park West, between ginning Mon, May 4; $180. with museum admission of $19 the world. W. 76th and W. 77th streets, (212) adults, $6 children ages 5-12. Multi-level class designed to Participants can learn the ba- 485–9273, www.DimennaChildren- strengthen the body after giving When Everyone Wore a Hat by sics of this craft, or they can sHistoryMuseum.org]. birth. Pre-registration required. (two William Steig is about hats, hats and sessions). more hats. Travel back in time to an era where everyone sported head Basketball clinic: Nelson A. Rock- gear then make a fancy hat to take making. May 17; $15 ($25 adults). efeller Park, Battery Park City; www. home. This program introduces New Fly Fishing: Bryant Park, 42nd Celebrating the 150th anniversary bpcparks.org/event; Mondays, 3:30– 5:30 pm, beginning Sat, May 2; Free. York and American history to the lit- Street and Avenue of the Americas; of the Lewis Carroll work, Tada will tlest New Yorkers with age-appropri- (212) 768–4242; www.bryantpark. present this production by talented Staffers teach children of all ages ate themes and engaging hands-on the basics of the sport. No classes org; Saturdays, 10 am to noon, Sat, kids. activities for children 3 to 5 tears old. May 25, September 7 and October May 2 – Sat, July 25; Free. Sunday Art Discoveries: The 12. Mother’s Day: Children’s Museum Expert instructors teach the basics Jewish Museum, 1109 5th Ave. at of the Arts, 103 Charlton St. at Hud- Explorers club: Irish Hunger Me- of fly fishing, casting and rigging. 92nd St.; (212) 423–3200; thejew- son Street; (212) 274–0986; www. morial, 6 River Terrace; (212) 267– Reservations suggested. ishmuseum.org; Sundays, 11:30 am cmany.org; Mondays and Wednes- 9700 X348; bpcparks.org; Mondays, days, Noon–5 pm, Thursdays and “The Trials of Alice in Won- – 12:30 pm, Now – Sun, May 17; Free 4 – 5:30 pm, Mon, May 4 – Mon, Fridays, Noon–6 pm, Saturdays and derland”: TADA! Youth Theater, with museum admission. June 22; $240 (per child). Sundays, 10 am–5 pm, Sat, May 2 – 15 West 28th St. between Broadway Children engage with works of art First, second and third graders Sun, May 10; Free with $11 museum and Fifth Avenue; (212) 252–1619 X4; through exciting activities and gallery learn about nature while exploring admission. www.tadatheater.com; Saturdays and tours focusing on themes inspired by the city’s parks. Pre-registraton re- Bring mom for a special day of art- Sundays, 2 pm and 4 pm, Now – Sun, to our special exhibitions. quired. No class 5/25/15. 38 Manhattan Family • May 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar Soccer clinic: Nelson A. Rockefeller their new skill. More seasoned stitch- Park, Battery Park City; bpcparks.org; ers and older children and adults Tuesdays, 2:30–3:15 pm; 3:30–4:15 make a handcrafted gift for some- pm and 4:30–5:30 pm, beginning one. Ages 7 and up. Tues, May 5; Free. Art and games: Nelson A. Rock- Children learn the fundamentals efeller Park, Battery Park City; www. of the game and pre-schoolers have bpcparks.org/event; Thursdays, fun kicking, running and being part 3:30–5:30 pm, beginning Thurs, May of a team. Drop in. For ages 3 to 11 7; Free. years old. Create a fun project, make friends Arts and crafts: Pavilion at Union and play games. For children 5 years Square Park, West 14th St. and Union and older. Square East; nycgovparks.org; Tues- days, 3 pm to 5 pm,; Free. Further Afield Children explore new topics Science Playground: New York through arts and crafts. Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Queens; (718) 699–0005 X353; Young sprouts gardening: Nel- www.nyscience.org; Weekdays, son A Rockefeller Park (Children’s 9:30 am–5 pm, Saturdays and Sun- Garden), Battery Park City; (212) days, 10 am–6 pm,; $5plus museum 267–9700; http;//www.bpcparks.org; admission. Tuesdays, 3:15 – 3:45 pm, beginning Children are encouraged to ex- Tues, May 5; Free. plore science through slides, see- Little ones 3 to 5 years old learn saws, climbing webs, a water play about simple gardening projects. What’s in that egg? area, sand boxes, and more, weather Space limited first come, first served. It’s “Hatched” at the Ailey Citi- of a newborn chick who emerges permitting. Gardening club: Nelson A. Rock- group Studio Theater on May 8. from her shell to a strange, and Galapagos: Nature’s Wonderland efeller Park, Battery Park City; www. Treehouse Shakers presents busy world. in 3D: New York Hall of Science, 47- bpcparks.org/event; Tuesdays, 4–5 01 111th St., Queens; (718) 699– pm, beginning Tues, May 5; $130 (per the interactive story of life on a “Hatched,” May 8 at 11 am. All 0005 X353; www.nyscience.org; two month cycle; $350 for all three farm. tickets are $20. Weekdays, 11 am & 2 pm, Saturdays months of the cycle). Toddlers, preschoolers, and Ailey Citigroup Studio Theater and Sundays, 1 & 3 pm, Now – Tues, even the youngest babies will [405 W. 55th St. at Ninth Ave.in Mid- How does your garden grow? June 30; $6 adults; $5 children. Children 6 to 10 learn how to make enjoy this show featuring pup- town West, (212) 715–1914; www. In this 3D movie, travel to the their garden grow. Classes run in pets, live music and story telling treehouseshakers.com]. Galapagos archipelago to meet giant two month cycles; pre-registration half-ton tortoises and marine iguanas required. Chambers Street access to that spit sea-salt from their noses, the park. ing, sculpting and murals. For chil- 10:30 am–noon, beginning Thurs, hunt fishes with the colorful blue- Drop in chess: Nelson A. Rock- dren 5 and older. May 7; Free. footed boobies, and swim with tiny efeller Park, Battery Park City; www. Young artists are introduced to penguins. bpcparks.org/event; Wednesdays, Storytime: Museum of Jewish paper, clay, paint and other supplies. Rocket Park Mini Golf: New 3:30–5 pm, beginning Wed, May 6; Heritage, 36 Battery Place at First York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th Free. Place; (646) 437–4202; www.mjhnyc. Cross-Stitch Circle: New-York His- St., Queens; (718) 699–0005 X353; org; Wednesday, May 6, 3:30 pm; torical Society, 170 Central Park West Players of every level practice, learn www.nyscience.org; Saturdays and Wednesday, May 20, 3:30 pm; Free. at 77th Street; (212) 873–3400; ny- and hone up on skills. For children 5 Sundays, 10 am–6 pm,; $6 (adults,) Drop-in program warm, whimsical to 15 years old. history.org; Thursdays, 3:30 pm, Now $5 (children and seniors,) plus mu- tales about traditions, holidays, and Playtime: Teardrop Park, Battery – Thurs, June 25; Free with museum seum admission. families from some of today’s best Park City; bpcparks.org; Wednesdays, admission of $19 adults, $6 children Golfers of all ages can learn about storybooks for children ages 0-4. 3:30–5:30 pm, beginning Wed, May ages 5-12. key science concepts such as propul- 6; Free. Art time: Nelson A Rockefeller Park, Beginning cross stitchers and sion, gravity, escape velocity, launch Staffers teach children the value of Battery Park City; (212) 267–9700; younger children will learn the basic window, gravitational assist, and play and create fun projects in draw- http;//www.bpcparks.org; Thursdays, stitch and create a bookmark with more! Why not whistle while you work? Emily Eagen whistles her way ukulele-playing member of the also toss in spoons, bones, jaw to the Resnick Education Wing at popular roots band The Whis- harp, and jug for a sound that has Carnegie Hall on May 31. tling Wolves. audiences stomping, clapping, and A musical innovator who sings Emily and bandmate Spiff whistling. and whistles a cornucopia of Weigand’s own songs explore Emily Eagen and the Whistling tunes including original, early children’s flights of fancy, their Wolves at Carnegie Hall’s Resnick music, and traditional Ameri- dreams, and the way they turn fa- Education Wing [881 Seventh Ave. cana, Eagen is a two-time in- miliar concepts on their head. at W. 57th Street in Midtown; (212) ternational whistling champion Joined by friends from the 247–7800; www.carnegiehall.org/forf and a singing, whistling, and Wolves, Eagen and her string band amilies]. May 31 at 2 pm. Free.
May 2015 • Manhattan Family 39 books Discover new frontiers You’ve got a lot to do today, so it’s on Toronto Island? time to get going. You’ve got break- Once you’re done nap- fast to eat and a whole big world to ping in the sun, it’s time explore, and it starts with the new to get going again. It’s al- book “A Day in Canada” by Per-Henrik most suppertime but first, Gürth. you can walk through the So where will you start your new park at Whistler Mountain, day? Why not watch the sunrise in can’t you? The trees are St. John’s, way over on the east side so close that you almost of Canada? feel like a bird there! And The book In the next part of your busy day, you might feel rich if you find you’ll pick your meals at the Halifax gold in the Klondike River, so don’t Gürth takes kids on a journey from worm Farmers’ Market. Corn, bananas, to- forget to bring your pan and some eastern to western Canada, hitting Terri Schlichenmeyer matoes, melons, and pears can all be good boots. some highlights and seeing pre- found there every morning. Arrive It’s been a very long day, and it’s miere sites in many of the coun- early, and you can help. time to rest on the shores of Great try’s areas. I particularly liked the All that work means it’s time for Slave Lake. The only thing better uncomplicated nature of this book; fun! Grab your bike and take a morn- than a hot dog cooked near the even if a child can’t read the narra- ing ride along the Confederation sand is sleeping beneath the north- tive, the pictures tell the story well. Trail. It’s the perfect day for it, but ern lights in Nunavut. What a day it’s This is a perfect gift for a child hurry. You’ll want to listen to music been! And what a journey! who’s just learning to love books and and dance at the Miramichi Folksong Quiet. Simple. Those are two the read-aloud time that goes with Festival. words you’ll want to remem- them, and it’s great for a bedtime Just before lunchtime, you can ber when you need a snuggle- story, too. If your 2-to-4-year-old take a tour of a Quebec City fort. time book for your toddler, and needs that, then “A Day in Canada” is When you’re finished, you’ll be hun- “A Day in Canada” fits both. With just right for a Good Night. gry and ready for a lakeside rest. Did heavy lined drawings and bright, “A Day in Canada” by Per-Henrik you bring a blanket for your picnic vivid colors, author Per-Henrik Gürth [32 pages, 2015, $15.95].
The delight comes in the biogra- Exploring the cosmos! phy part of this book. Author CAP Saucier lets us explore the life of Neil In the new book by CAP Americans, so being an astronaut deGrasse Tyson, from his childhood Saucier, you can learn to “Ex- never even entered his mind. to his fascinating career today and plore the Cosmos like Neil de- In finding beauty in the night sky, what he thinks about the future of Grasse Tyson.” Tyson is not alone. More than 2,500 space exploration. Along the way, Born a few days before the years ago, the Greeks looked up- we’re given an education on the uni- National Aeronautics and ward and tried to understand what verse and what’s in it. Space Administration began, they saw. Other cultures studied the That part, however, can be for- Neil deGrasse Tyson likes heavens, too; Ptolemy tried to count midable; the language is more ad- to say he’s the same age as the stars, and stopped at a thousand. vanced than I would have liked to NASA. By the time he was In recent years, we’ve learned more see in a book for middle-graders. nine years old, he was “in about the cosmos than ever before, Kids who tackle those sections love with the night sky” and but there’s still so much we don’t will need a better-than-average un- at 11, he knew he wanted know. derstanding of astroscience, since to be an astrophysicist (a To study the stars, you need to those pages aren’t otherwise very scientist that studies the understand light and physics. You’ll kid-friendly. I think maybe a sci- universe). He was so fasci- need to know about galaxies and ence-loving 9-year-old could try this nated by planets and stars Nebulas, which look different and book but it’s really better-suited for that he almost got in trou- have descriptive names. You’ll want someone older. For a sharp child ble with a telescope when to find out the truth about black with her head in the stars, “Ex- he was a teenager. holes, and why you never, ever want plore the Cosmos like Neil deGrasse Tyson’s parents both stressed to to be “spaghettified.” And above all, Tyson” is pretty cosmic. him that skipping college was not an says Tyson, stay in school, learn “Explore the Cosmos like Neil de- option and so, though he wasn’t a math, and go for the best education Grasse Tyson” by CAP Saucier [177 great student in high school, Tyson you can get. Even if you don’t end pages, $14.99]. went to Harvard, then to the Univer- up studying stars, that’s always a Terri Schlichenmeyer has been read- sity of Texas and to Columbia Uni- good path to take. I was pleasantly ing since she was 3 years old, and versity. Why, you might ask, didn’t surprised and a little daunted, both, she never goes anywhere without a he become an astronaut? Back then, by “Explore the Cosmos like Neil de- book. She lives on a hill with two dogs the program wasn’t open to African Grasse Tyson.” and 12,000 books.
40 Manhattan Family • May 2015 theMarketplace
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May 2015 • Manhattan Family 41 New & Noteworthy By Lisa J. Curtis Knotty corner Sink to their level We have found the answer to With Little Tikes’ new Splish tongs, plates, forks, knives, spoons, your question, “What do we get Splash Sink and Stove, kids ages and cups) for easy portability. The for [insert: Mom, Grandma, My 3 and older will gender-neutral kitchen is a Mother-in-law, or The Special Aunt] be absorbed great gift for preschool- for Mother’s Day this year?” for long ers, and can be used And the answer is: A Macrame stretches of indoors or outdoors. Terrarium, from Faber-Castell’s time as they The only drawback Creativity for Kids line. With this cook and clean of this engross- kit, kids, ages 7-97, can make a dishes in the ing toy is the wonderful, handcrafted present. “working” sink. potential for They’ll learn the awesomely ’70s The drain and tiny dishpan pastime of macrame (pronounced pump-action faucet hands! mah-krah-may) which entails tying elevates this toy above Splish Splash knots in the included turquoise its peers. The tidy toy holds all of Sink and Stove by Little Tikes, $19.99, cord to transform it into a plant the accessories (frying pan, spatula, www.littletikes.com. hanger. Then, the child creates the terrarium, using the plastic spoon to layer the included chia and press, the flowers can be laminated wheat grass seeds, potting mix, Im-pressive and turned into bookmarks, or pre- colored sand, and gravel inside the served in resin and trans- plastic, globe-shaped terrarium With the Botanist formed into pendants for (which is 5-inches in diameter). Case from Moulin Roty, necklaces, or even ar- Just add water to the garden mis- wee naturalists can ranged into framed col- ter, and they’re ready to grow! The use the included flower lages with additional ma- young landscape designer can in- Finally, place the terrarium into the press to preserve natu- terials from a craft store. sert the kit’s teensy-weensy, resin plant hanger, and voila! — a hand- ral specimens — and Recommended for deer and mushroom figurines, or crafted gift for that “deer” lady. later transform them crafters ages 6 and up, they can use materials from home Macrame Terrarium kit by Faber- into a thoughtful gift for the cardboard Bota- to create their own figurine or a Castell Creativity for Kids, $20, faber- Mother’s Day, Grandpar- nist Case also in- sign that reads “I love you, Mom.” castell.com/creativity-for-kids. ents Day, or just mount cludes a magnifying them into a scrapbook as glass, scissors, note- keepsakes of a visit to a book, and three boxes park on a sunny day. for storing treasures. After the blooms and Botanist Case by Moulin Miller’s ‘Glory’ days leaves have been dried in the case’s Roty, $72, bonjourpetit.com. When I was a kid, it was actu- Miller brings a similar level of ex- ally a fun change of pace when my citement to aspects of the Ameri- parents shut off ’80s pop radio and can Civil War. The album combines put in a Johnny Horton cassette. songs from the 1800s with Miller’s Through that historical balladeer’s original tunes — like “Weeksville,” Fall for nature rollicking 1960 hit, “Sink the Bis- about the area of Brooklyn which Drought continues to beleaguer marck,” I learned about the British became one of the United States’ California, making it a good time navy taking on the mighty German first free black communities. to remind kids about our precious battleship during World War II. The listener learns of the coura- natural resources. In the beautifully With his new CD, “Glory! Glory! geous, painful journey of a Virginia illustrated “Pitter and Patter,” a new Hallelujah!,” Lloyd H. slave who escaped to the North by picture book by Martha Sullivan, mailing himself in a crate in “Henry readers — ages 4–10 — will quench Box Brown,” a ballad that will spark their thirst for adventure as they a passion for learning more about marvel at the journey of two. While America’s heroes. Pitter falls from a leaf to a stream A wonderful way to commemo- and ocean, Patter travels through how all of those April showers beget rate the 150th anniversary of the soil to an underground cave and fi- May flowers and other ways parents end of the Civil War, the CD also nally reunites with Pitter at sea. can bring the scientific concepts be- includes the Gettysburg Address, The friendly raindrops say “hello” hind “Pitter and Patter” to life for read by contemporary voices. to many insects and animals on the their budding conservationists. “Sing-a-long History Vol. 1: Glory! land and sea, all gloriously illus- “Pitter and Patter” book by Martha Glory! Hallelujah!” CD by Lloyd H. trated by Cathy Morrison. After the Sullivan, $8.95 paperback, $16.95 hard- Miller, $9.99, cdbaby.com. story ends, additional text explains cover, www.dawnpub.com.
42 Manhattan Family • May 2015 NEW YORK SPECIAL CHILD
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