EducationDecember 2010 BROOKLYN SectionFREE Family www.webfamilyny.com Holidays with heart Spend less & savor more Childcare to fi t your budget

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Contributions can qualify for a generous deduction from New York State taxable income.* Upromise is a registered service mark of Earnings grow tax deferred, and you pay no state or federal taxes on qualified withdrawals, Upromise, Inc. making a 529 plan one of the most tax-efficient ways to save.** Plus, a free rewards service For more information about from Upromise® can add to your account. It’s so easy—just visit ny529directplan.com, and New York’s 529 College Savings Program Direct Plan, obtain in about ten minutes, you’ve kept your promise. a Program Brochure and Tuition Savings Agreement at ny529directplan.com or by calling 1-800-608-8617. This includes investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other information. You should read Visit ny529directplan.com and consider them carefully or call 1-800-608-8617 before investing. © 2010 State of New York Brooklyn Family December 2010 Features columns Letter from 4 Gifts for less 2 Newbie Dad Personalized presents will win children’s hearts By Brian Kantz the publisher By Belinda Mooney 6 Good Sense Eating 8 Holidays with heart by Christine M. Palumbo, RD his year has been Spend less and savor more this holiday season an enormous tran- By By Kathy Sena 10 Lions and Tigers and Teens T sition year for By Myrna Beth Haskell much of our city. High 12 Hollywood Rx for the holidays levels of unemployment, Classic movies to revive weary parents 14 Parents Helping Parents by Sharon C. Peters loss of property, property By Christina Katz values and investments have all contributed to a 16 Seasonal minefield 18 Growing Up Online state of unease and uncer- Tips for special needs families navigating the holidays by Carolyn Jabs tainty, and people have been revamping their By Rebecca McKee, MSED, BCBA budgets and trying to figure out how to make 28 Our Relationships By Joan Emerson, PhD their dollars stretch further. 20 Affordable child care is possible Continuing to provide for our children and Finding the best care for your child when you’re on 32 Family Health their welfare is every parent’s primary goal, a budget by Dr. Pramod Narula, MD and we sacrifice elsewhere in our lives to make By Candi Sparks sure our children are given all they need to 36 Cinematters grow and prosper. 34 PS 3 to the rescue by Laura Gray It’s been a rough year for the many schools When theatre troupe lost its space, school stepped in and businesses that provide education, care and 30 Twice the Advice services for our children. Budgets have been 40 To Facebook or not to Facebook? by Jacqueline and Kerry Donelli slashed and everyone is trying hard to hold on. Is it ethical for a teacher to ‘friend’ students? Looking ahead to 2011 we cross our fingers By Vera Borukhov 56 It Figures and hope we will return to prosperity and a 42 Autism support By Cynthia Washam better economic climate for everyone. Queens group helps families cope with the disorder Personally, I have much to be grateful for. I 60 New & Noteworthy By Mary Carroll Wininger have a super teenage daughter who is a dedi- The hottest new products cated student and a thoughtful human being. 44 Bugging out again I have a terrific staff with which to collaborate Greenpoint cartoonist dishes on his new kids book calendar of events on work I thoroughly enjoy. I have good health, By Chuck O’Donnell loving friends and relations, and an apprecia- 51 Going Places tion of a lot that life has to offer. All this I was 46 Learn the lingo Take the family out and find out what’s taught by my parents and I am trying to pass Tips for parents hoping to communicate with teens going on in your town on this same love of living to my next in line. by Joanna DelBuono That’s what we, as parents, must do. And now, I must thank the wonderful peo- 48 Pee-wee in the ‘house’ special section ple I work with who make these magazines Paul Reubens’s TV show hits Broadway 20 Education Directory happen. I want to thank our writers — both By Lisa J. Curtis staff and freelance — our design people and our distributors. I especially want to thank Tina, Cliff, Linda, On Man, Arthur, Irene, Yvonne, Leah, Vinnie, Nikki, Courtney, Joanna, Staff contact information Earl, Patti, Pat and Paul. Publisher: Clifford Luster ADVERTISING SALES Address The biggest thank you of all goes to my 718 260-2587 Family Publications New York/CNG partner in effort and intellect and my fondest publisher/Managing editor: [email protected] or 1 MetroTech Center North collaborator, Sharon Noble. Without her, it Susan Weiss [email protected] 10th Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201 wouldn’t be fun and it wouldn’t be possible. Editor: Vince DiMiceli Circulation Happy holidays to all of you. Happy New 718 260-8336 www.webfamilyny.com Creative Director: Leah Mitch [email protected] Year and thanks for reading! Art Director: On Man Tse Editorial 718 260-4551 Advertising Sales: [email protected] Sharon Noble, Linda Smith Brooklyn Family, Queens Family, Bronx/Riverdale Family and Staten Island SPECIAL ASSISTANT: Family are published monthly. Copyright©2010. No part of our contents may Susan Weiss-Voskidis, Publisher Tina Felicetti be reproduced without permission from the publisher. December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 1 Parenting “An enchanting ride.” Sensing the holidays — The New York Times Traditions trigger memories for this father

s a parent, I want to do every- Dolly Madison ice cream commer- thing I can to make sure that cial that accompanied “A Charlie A my two boys have a memo- Brown Christmas” was a sure sign rable childhood. Memorable in a that the holidays were here. “How good way, of course. Not in a my- the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “Ru- Newbie DaD dad-made-me-star-in-“Home dolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” Brian KanTz Alone”-then-squandered-all-of- and “Frosty the Snowman” en- my-earnings way. So, my wife dure to this day . and I take them to interesting places, encourage them to try Hearing different foods, and snap about Two words: Bing Crosby. No a bazillion photos to document album will ever top Bing’s “White our experiences together. Christmas” for direct association Still, for all of the “memorable” with the holidays. In my mind, I stuff that we do, I can’t help but won- can hear Bing singing, “I’m dream- der how much my kids will actually ing…” and my dad singing, “… of a remember. After all, they are only age of the early childhood memories …” and my grandfather singing, “… 6 and 3, and unless you’re Junie B. that do still exist revolve around the white Christmas …” Who doesn’t Jones, it’s kind of tough to write first- holidays and the senses. And I’m love to impersonate the bub-a-dub- grade memoirs with any great detail. making a concerted effort to pass bub sound of der Bingle? I’m 37 and those closets in my brain those memories on to my two sons. that hold 30-year-old memories are Here’s a sample: Smell filled with a lot of, ahek-ahek, dust. The smell of the holidays is pine. There is hope, however. In my taste I’m told my father once tried to put humble, non-scientific — but always I know you’ll be right with me on up an artificial tree in our house, but correct — opinion, the brain best this one: candy canes. One lick of a one look at my mother’s face told remembers those things that, at a candy cane and you’re immediately him that he better throw it in the moment in time, inundated one of transported to the holidays of your trash and drive, as fast as he could, your five senses: taste, sight, hearing, childhood. My favorite version of to the lot down the street to pick up a smell, or touch. And, it seems to me, candy canes is the seasonal spe- real tree. Once inside a house, a pine that kind of attack on the senses is cial, peppermint stick ice cream. It’s tree’s scent dominates everything. bound to happen each year when the mint ice cream with crushed candy holidays roll around. That’s the time canes. My boys prefer mini-candy touch A family favorite! when colors are a tad sparklier (yes, I canes, which turn their fingers red. The holidays always recall the The Met’s spectacular said sparklier), songs are a bit zazzier feeling of squishing cookie dough in (yes, zazzier), and cakes taste more Sight my hands. One of my family’s great production by rum-my (no, not yummy, rum-my). Watching holiday specials on traditions was the annual baking of JULIE TAYMOR, That’s why, for me, a good percent- TV is a great memory. Seeing the a cookie called, “Winter Rainbows.” The recipe calls for the dough to be the director of colored red, yellow and green. My INSTRUCTIONS brush top of one strip lightly with The Lion King, returns Winter rainbows mom would squeeze a few drops of in a large bowl, mix or sift together milk; place another strip, paper side Makes six dozen cookies. (Yes, you’ll food coloring on the dough and then in its abridged, English- flour, baking powder, salt, baking up, on top. Peel off paper. Repeat want at least that many.) let my brothers and I have at it. I re- soda. in another bowl, beat butter procedure with remaining dough language version for member going to school with green INGREDIENTS with sugars until fluffy. beat in egg strips, alternating colors, to make six fingers. Now, it’s my sons’ turn to Mozart the holidays. 2 cups all-purpose flour and vanilla. Stir in flour mixture, a layers. Press lightly together. Cut fin- ished stack lengthwise to make two squish dough. ½ tsp. baking powder third at a time, blending well to make And since it is the season of giving, ½ tsp. salt a soft dough. Divide dough into three narrow stacks. wrap in plastic wrap, foil, or wax paper; chill in refrigera- I’d like to offer the gift of the “Winter 1/8 tsp. baking soda equal portions, tinting one green, one Rainbows” recipe. Spend some time THE MAGIC FLUTE tor three hours or overnight. Unwrap 10 tbsp. (1-¼ sticks) butter, softened red and one yellow. dough. Cut into 1/8-inch slices with a with your kids making memories and DEC 21 mat, 24, 28 mat, 29 mat, 30 mat JAN 1, 3 mat, 6 ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar Roll each portion of dough into a sharp knife. Place on greased cookie making some really great cookies. ¼ cup granulated sugar nine-by-five rectangle between sheets sheets. (They won’t spread much, so Enjoy — and happy holidays! Visit metopera.org, the box offi ce, or call 212-362-6000. 1 egg of wax paper. Chill in freezer 10 you can put them pretty close together Brian Kantz really wants you to make 1 tsp. vanilla minutes. Cut each piece of dough in on the cookie sheet.) bake in moder- these cookies. They’re good. Seriously. Yellow, green and red food coloring half lengthwise, cutting through wax ate oven (350 degrees) for eight min- Visit Brian online at www.briankantz. Milk paper. Peel off top sheets. utes, or until edges are golden. com or drop him a note at thenewbie- Tickets from $22. Premium orchestra seats are $109. [email protected].

2 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 LISTEN TO METROPOLITAN OPERA RADIO 24/7 ON Nathan Gunn as Papageno Photo: Ken Howard/Metropolitan Opera

“An enchanting ride.” — The New York Times

A family favorite! The Met’s spectacular production by JULIE TAYMOR, the director of The Lion King, returns in its abridged, English- language version for Mozart the holidays. THE MAGIC FLUTE DEC 21 mat, 24, 28 mat, 29 mat, 30 mat JAN 1, 3 mat, 6 Visit metopera.org, the box offi ce, or call 212-362-6000.

Tickets from $22. Premium orchestra seats are $109.

LISTEN TO METROPOLITAN OPERA RADIO 24/7 ON Nathan Gunn as Papageno Photo: Ken Howard/Metropolitan Opera December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 3

Finances Gifts for less By Belinda Mooney to make and can be created for any Personalized type of athletic activity. It might be oliday time is also gift-giving a soccer, swimming, football or presents will time, especially for children. golf theme. You can also create H Buying presents for everyone a gift basket around her favorite in the family can stretch your budget sports team, if she enjoys that, win children’s to the limit, if you’re not careful. De- but doesn’t actually play sports. ciding what to buy for all of those kids Products that work well in this type — your own, nieces and nephews, of basket are mugs, sports bottles, hearts grandchildren — is a challenge when hats, pencils, a rolled up sweatshirt you’re not only trying to get the most or gym shorts with a team logo. from every dollar, but also trying to • J u s t for girls — These gift bas- give a gift that has the individual in kets are perfect for when your mind. But it can be done! Here are child needs a present for some- some thoughtful and fun ideas that one you may not know very well. will make every child — from tod- Kids especially enjoy shopping dlers to teens — feel special and save for their friends or cousins and you some money as well. the dollar stores are perfect for this. You can use a pretty wire Gift baskets basket or even a small plastic bin While we often think of gift bas- that you can personalize with per- kets as for adults, they are enjoyed manent markers. Fill with toiletries by kids, too. And if you put them to- such as shampoo, bubble bath and gether yourself, you can save money body wash, or whimsies such as bar- while creating a customized present rettes, inexpensive jewelry, a small that says, “You’re important to me.” stuffed animal or lip gloss. A gift basket is as fun to make as it • Fo r the guys — Just like a basket is to give. Start with a container to for the girls, this is a quick-and-easy hold your gifts in. This can — but gift idea for friends. A mini crate doesn’t have to — be a basket. You works great as a “basket.” Toss in can use wicker baskets; storage con- some toy cars, squirt guns, army tainers; a large, colorful bowl; a plas- men, small model kits or an inexpen- tic bucket; or even an upside-down sive, hand-held electronic game, and but it is possible. cowboy hat. They can be filled inex- you are ready to go. Gift cards for this pensively with items from the local age are a fool- dollar store, with homemade treats Personalize it! proof idea. or even thrift store finds. Most retail Kids love anything that has their Get one to his stores sell the cellophane wrappers name on it or tells the world who they favorite book or music store, sport- you see around gift baskets. Just slip are, such as shorts that say “Big Sis- ing goods emporium or game shop. yours in, tie it off with a colorful rib- ter” or “Favorite Niece.” You can pur- Put the gift card in a cute mug with bon and — voila! — a beautiful gift. chase items like this easily through a candy bar, and you have a simple- Here are some fun themes for many local stores or over the Inter- but-sweet surprise. Gift certificates kids’ gift baskets: net, or you can consider making them to fast food restaurants are always • Artsy gift basket — This theme is yourself. Beach towels, mugs, din- a perfect idea for any teen; after all, just right for the child who likes crafts nerware, name plaques, shirts and eating is what they do best! Or fill a or creating in any form. For those wall hangings can all be personalized gift bag with a DVD, microwave pop- who like to draw, include colored with a child’s name. Teens especially corn and a two-liter of pop. Teens and drawing pencils, a pad of paper, enjoy shirts, purses, jewelry and are often easier to please than we erasers and an instruction book. For other items that have their names or think they are. younger kids, anything that lets them initials on them. Local embroidery be creative works — paint sets, color- and T-shirt shops are affordable, and Get creative ing books, crayons, safety scissors china markers and fabric paint make With a little ingenuity and plan- and glue sticks. Add whimsical items decorating on your own easy. ning, you can shop for kids without like glitter glue, stickers, construction going broke. Just like older folks, paper and foam cut-outs. The teenage crowd kids enjoy gifts that say you thought • For the sporty type — A gift bas- Teens can be tough customers to about them and let them know they ket for the sports enthusiast is easy buy for without breaking the bank, are special.

4 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 DEC 10—19 The HardNut

BAM AND MARK MORRIS DANCE GROUP PRESENT THE HARD NUT FEATURING THE MMDG MUSIC ENSEMBLE WITH THE BROOKLYN YOUTH CHORUS CONDUCTED BY ROBERT COLE CHOREOGRAPHY BY MARK MORRIS PRODUCTION BASED ON THE WORK OF CHARLES BURNS “Dazzling, uproariously funny.” APPROPRIATE FOR AGES 4 & UP —SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE TICKETS START AT $25 Photos: Susana Millman VIDEO PREVIEW AT BAM.ORG

Leadership support for the BAM 2010 Next Wave Festival is part of BAM 2010 Next Wave Festival / Brooklyn, NY Next Wave Festival provided Diverse Voices at BAM sponsored by: BAM.org / 718.636.4100 by The Ford Foundation.

AmericAn BAllet theAtre Exclusively in Brooklyn • BAM Howard Gilman Opera House

World Premiere December 22 – January 2 Choreography by Alexei Ratmansky

Bt comes to BrOOKLYN for the Holidays! as the lights A dim and tchaikovsky’s beautiful score fills the air, your entire family will join young clara for a dreamlike journey in this all-new production of e.t.a. Hoffmann’s holiday classic, with over 100 cast members, sets and costumes by richard ® Hudson (tony award , The lion king) and liVe orchestra! Photos by Fabrizio Ferri. Catherine Hurlin and Philip Perez; Gomes. insets: Gillian Murphy; Catherine Hurlin and Marcelo

TickeTs on sale now! Prices start at $15 718.636.4100 • ABT.org or BAM.org BAM Box Office: 30 Lafayette Ave., Brooklyn • Groups (15+) 212.419.1066 Visit The Nutcracker microsite with behind-the-scenes video and interviews at www.abt.org/nutcracker Recommended for age 4 and older. See abt.org for full age guidelines. No refunds or exchanges. All casts are subject to change.

December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 5 HealtHy eating Latest guidelines for your child’s diet ave you ever wished for a di- ple who have a calcium or iron defi- etary roadmap to assist you Q: What are “soFas?” ciency who may wish to supplement H in your family’s meal plan- A: SoFAS refer to the solid their diet. Good sense ning? How about one using a science- fats and added sugars that based approach by our nation’s top contribute too many calories environment change eatinG nutrition experts and updated to align — about 35 percent — to the The report acknowledges the dif- Christine M. PaluMbo, rD with the latest research? The recently American diet for kids, teens ficulty in changing your diet unless released Dietary Guidelines Advisory and adults. You, likely, under- changes are made to the overall Committee’s report is just that. stand the meaning of added food environment. How do you eat a First developed in 1980, the Di- sugars. Solid fats are the fats nutrient-dense diet at the same time etary Guidelines are updated every in butter, cheese, stick marga- supermarkets, schools, restaurants five years. In addition to helping rine, vegetable shortening and and other food venues offer myriad Americans navigate the nutrition the fats in meat. food and beverage choices high in world, they’re used for federal nu- fat, sugar and sodium? trition programs and building con- The report recommends that we: sumer messages. For example, the • Kids should be discouraged • Improve people’s nutrition lit- National School Lunch Program uti- from drinking sugar-sweetened bev- eracy and cooking skills. lizes the recommendations in order erages. • Motivate families with children to feed over 30 million children • We should eat a more plant-cen- to prepare and enjoy more home- every day. tered diet that emphasizes vegeta- cooked meals. bles, cooked dry beans, fruits, whole • Encourage the food industry to Report highlights grains, nuts and seeds. offer smaller portions of foods that Its new focus is on children’s • T he benefits of cooked seafood promote health. These include foods health. Preventing childhood obesity outweigh the risks from mercury and low in sodium, added sugars, refined is the most powerful public health other possible contaminants. Aim for flours and solid fats. initiative to combat our country’s two 4-ounce servings per week. obesity epidemic in the long term. • H e a l t h y patterns of eating in- a bit of controversy It says: clude the Mediterranean diet and The committee suggests people • Children and teens should ac- the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hy- reduce sodium to just 1,500 milli- cumulate at least one hour of mod- pertension (DASH) diet. grams each day, and cut out foods erate-to-vigorous physical activity • D a i l y vitamins don’t benefit with added sodium. Some nutrition every day. healthy people. An exception is peo- experts dismiss this as being unre- alistic in today’s society. The report also recommends upping potassium INSTRUCTIONS: toast sandwich thins® halves to a light golden brown. in the diet — plentiful in produce — in a bowl, mix tomatoes with balsamic which helps cut sodium’s effect on vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper, to blood pressure. taste. stack basil leaves and roll them in According to Toby Smithson, RD, the shape of a log. slice the rolled basil, LDN, CDE, a spokesperson for the making ribbons. toss most of the cut American Dietetic Association, some basil with the tomatoes, reserving a bit groups feel there should be more de- of fresh basil to garnish. spoon dressed finitive guidelines for the amount of tomatoes on top of each toasted fat in the diet and more emphasis on sandwich thins® half and garnish with vitamin D. She adds that some crit- a few fresh basil ribbons. ics want, “more focus on choosing whole grains instead of making half NUTRITION FACTS: 100 calories, 14 your grains whole.” grape tomato Bruschetta grams carbohydrate, 3 grams protein, The committee’s recommenda- Makes eight bruschetta 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar 4 grams fat, 0.5 grams saturated fat, 0 trans fat and cholesterol, 3 grams dietary tions will be considered when the INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons garlic-infused extra- U.S. Department of Agriculture ® virgin olive oil fiber, 3 grams sugar, 115 milligrams 4 arnold Honey Wheat sandwich sodium, 15 percent dV vitamins a and C, and the Department of Health and thins® rolls, separated 12 fresh basil leaves Human Services develop the final Di- Kosher salt, to taste 2 percent dV calcium, 4 percent dV iron. 2 pints grape tomatoes, sliced in half Recipe courtesy of Claire Robinson of etary Guidelines early next year. lengthwise Freshly ground black pepper, to taste “Five Ingredient Fix.” To read the full report, go to www. dietaryguidelines.gov.

6 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Friday 10 12/ 17 9:30am 10:30am 11:30pm SatSun 19 12/20 11:00am +3:00pm

December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 7 Finances Holidays with heart Spend less By Kathy Sena ith the holidays ap- proaching, I’ve found my- and savor W self chatting with friends about how we often regret spending too much money, running around more this like lunatics with our to-do lists, and stressing out during a season that should be spent enjoying family holiday and friends. So this year, I’m plan- ning to make my family’s holidays more meaningful — and less crazed season and costly. Want to join me? Here’s how: Plan ahead First and foremost, make a list of every person you plan to buy a gift for, then create a budget. Don’t wait until the 11th hour to shop — when you’re more likely to feel desperate and spend too much on that fancy doodad the kids saw on TV on Dec. 23. You know the one. It’s just like that thingamajig they got tired of by Dec. 27 last year. Give gifts that help others The possibilities here are end- less, but here’s one fun example: My family and I started giving gifts from movie theater prices (Plus, you can Heifer International (www.heifer.org) Give experiences, plan this event for January, after the a few years ago, and that has been not things craziness of the holidays is over). a great experience. In your loved Does your sister really need an- Even more fun — make everyone a one’s honor, you can give the gift of other scarf? Instead, buy movie tick- star and show old family movies as a share of a sheep, a flock of baby ets for a fun girls’ night out and the “previews” before the show. chicks, or a goat that will provide spring for the popcorn. Want to in- income and food for a needy family. clude the nieces and nephews and say no to new Kids love to help pick out the gift. not break the bank? Make a gift of decorations You buy as mant shares of an ani- a movie night at your house and go You already have boxes full of mal or a flock as you like, so this gift all out with movie-style candy, pop- decorations — and if you’re like me, idea works even for young kids who corn, soda — maybe even hot dogs. you whine about a lack of storage want to contribute some of their own When you buy the goodies your- space — right? Is it all that important money. The organization provides self and serve them at home, you to buy the new “must-have” deco- beautiful gift cards to give to your can treat everyone for dimes on the rations this year? Another option: recipients. dollar compared with those insane Make decorations with the kids. I still

8 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 You’ll support your The community and you’ll often find one-of-a kind Colonial gifts at craft fairs and school auctions. (And Nutcracker there’s usually a bake Sunday, December 12, 2010 at 2pm sale nearby!) remember the fun I had sitting with my mom and making elves out of ing and fun! (And there’s usually a All Tickets pipe cleaners, styrofoam balls, and bake sale nearby!) $ red felt when I was a kid. 6 Choose useful gifts Create photo gifts They don’t have to be expensive. � They’re something only you can A car-care kit for a new driver. A give. Grandparents love calendars gardening-magazine subscription An abridged, narrated version of Tchaikovsky’s and photo books featuring the for a new homeowner. A selection classic ballet. For ages four and up grandkids. My brother and I ex- of spices or a fun cookbook for a change CDs featuring high-res pho- budding young chef. tos of our families from the past year. We e-mail photos to each Get creative with 2010-2011 SEASON other during the year, of course, gift wrap but we usually send low-res ver- Try to re-use materials rather www.BrooklynCenterOnline.org or (718) 951-4500 sions. To have all the best photos than buy new wrap. Use gift bags Walt Whitman Theatre at Brooklyn College (2 train to Flatbush Avenue / on-site paid parking available) on a CD is a wonderful (and inex- and fabric ribbons and bows that pensive) gift. Another winner: we can be reused year after year. Sponsored by: visited my parents for spring break For gifts wrapped in paper, have ® one year and for Christmas that fun with Sunday comics or brown year, we gave them a photo book paper bags colored or stamped that included the photos from our by the kids. My favorite: have little visit. ones make hand prints with non- toxic paint on inexpensive butcher FAMILY THEATRE at Be a savvy online paper or brown paper bags and shopper use as wrap. The grandparents Check out PriceGrabber and may love the wrap more than the other price-comparison sites to gift! Leftover scrapbooking paper find the lowest price. And search and stickers are great for wrapping Google for online coupons. If you small gifts, too. Use extra scraps of want to buy something at a par- wrapping paper as gift tags. ticular store, just Google the store name and “coupon.” I’ve found cou- Focus on what pons for everything from free ship- counts ping to 20 percent off my entire Whether it’s attending a reli- Photo: C. Rod Bacon order. gious service, enjoying the school holiday play, making thumb-print Consolidate your cookies with your preschooler or online purchases playing Monopoly with the whole You’ll save time, minimize ship- family, be sure to stop and re- ping costs and help the environ- ally focus on the true blessings The Nutcracker ment. When shipping gifts your- of the season. This year, my son Photo: Courtesy,The Russian Nut crackerAmerican Kids Ballet self, re-use boxes and packing pea- is going to be playing piano in Saturday, December 18 at 2 p.m. Saturday, December 18 at 2 p.m. nuts. Also, watch those shipping church, along with other young Brighton Ballet Theater’s BrightTheon Ballet Nut crackerTheater’s deadlines and order early to avoid musicians, on Christmas Eve. For Russian American Kids Ballet SRussianaturday, DecemberAmerican 18 Kids at 2 Balle p.m.t higher costs for faster shipping as me, there’s no present that could Brighton Ballet Theater’s revives a holiday classic revives a holiday classic featuring lavish costumes, the holidays approach. appear under the tree that will be Russianfeaturing American lavish Kids costumes Ballet , more wonderful than that. splendid scenery, and a resplendidvives a holidsceneayry classic, and Photo:a Courtesy, Russian American Kids Ballet Buy local Kathy Sena is a freelance journal- featuring lavish costumes, junior company of 50+ junior company of$ $50+ young dancers. You’ll support your community ist and essayist. The best gift she AllAll ticketssplendid areareyoung scene justjust rydancers., and 12 a and you’ll often find one-of-a kind ever received was Matthew Benjamin junior company of 50+ gifts — at great prices — at craft Sena, who was born Dec. 22, 1995, Call (718) 368-young5596 or dancers. visit www.Kbcc.cuny.edu/PerformingArtsCenter fairs and school auctions. Plus, and came home from the hospital on Kingsborough Performing Arts Center, 2001 Oriental Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY 11235 this kind of shopping can be relax- Christmas Day.

December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 9 Parenting Teens & gift giving had just turned 13 when I came her boyfriend. your teen creative? She might draw home with this beautiful brace- There are simpler ways for teens, a portrait of her boyfriend from a I let from a boy who admired me. even for those who don’t have jobs photograph of him participating in When my mother saw it, she freaked yet, to show their appreciation for his favorite sport or pastime. If your out and told me that I had to give peers, coaches, or family members son likes to cook, suggest that he it back immediately. She said that — and these ideas won’t break the invite his girlfriend to dinner and she doubted he bought the bracelet bank! make the meal himself. and that it was an inappropriate gift “Sit down with your teens and Lions and for him to be giving me anyway. So the act of giving help them come up with a budget,” much for that little bauble! Your teen will likely get more out suggests Stoner. “This is a great tigers and As it turned out, he had taken of the act of “giving” than the per- time to talk about what the gift the bracelet from his older sister’s son receiving the gift. But not if a means. Big ticket items are not ap- teens jewelry box because he overheard parent does the purchasing. Teens propriate — small, meaningful gifts Myrna Beth haskell that she would “never wear it again.” need to do the buying themselves, are.” Supposedly, she was fighting with even if funds are running low. After Stoner also points out that teens all, it’s the thought that counts; and should be responsible for the cost. for many, this adage is oh so true. If teens are not working, Stoner be- Some of the most modest gifts I’ve lieves that gifts should come from received are those which I cherish their allowance. the most. “Otherwise, teens tend to lose The holidays are a great time for perspective on the monetary com- teens to think about giving to their mitment,” she says. favorite charity as well. “Small acts of purposeful kindness tips and tales and giving to charity (not necessar- “Collage is a great gift. All you ily money, but time) should be part need are magazines, photos, glue of every teen’s life,” explains Dr. Jodi sticks, and a surface to glue every- Stoner, a psychotherapist and co- thing to. Teens love collage because author of “Good Manners are Con- they are using pop culture images tagious” (Spinner Press, 2009). She mixed with their likes or a friend’s stresses that giving to others “de- likes. It’s a great gift for their friend’s velops integrity, boosts self-esteem, bedroom wall.” and adds meaning to children’s lives Jessica Galkin, Woodstock, NY no matter what age.” “My 15-year-old daughter and her friends bake cookies and give them Make it Personal out at school to their closest friends My daughter took a photograph for their birthdays.” of an art piece she created for a con- Deb Ciccone-Yaeger, Saugerties, NY test in which she had to express the “Every year, my daughter makes theme, “Beauty is …” She put the her own Christmas present for her photograph in an inexpensive, mag- grandmother and aunts. We have a netic photo frame and printed out file folder for crafts that catch our the words, “Beauty is … a teacher attention throughout the year. She who cares.” chooses one of those crafts to make as gifts.” For that special Gretchen Burnett, Salt Point, NY someone If your teen is giving something Share your ideas to a “significant other,” be sure that Upcoming topic: it is appropriate in nature and that Your teens are old enough, but her feelings are reciprocated. Ex- can you trust them to stay home plain to your teen that gift giving is alone? over the top for a new crush, but is Please send your full name, address, a nice way to express feelings if a and brief comments to: myrnahaskell@ relationship has formed. gmail.com, or visit home.roadrunner. Overdoing it with expensive jew- com/~haskellfamily/myrna/ elry or electronics is not the answer. Myrna Beth Haskell is a feature writer Making things by hand or personal- and columnist specializing in parenting izing the gift are great ways to ex- issues and children’s development. She press your affection for someone. Is is the mother of two teenagers.

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 11 ENTERTAINMENT

REEL HOLIDAY FUN: (Clockwise from top left) “A Christmas Carol;” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas;” “A Christmas Story;” “Home Alone;” and “Home for the Holidays.” Hollywood Rx for the holidays BY CHRISTINA KATZ empathized with the family reunion call to a supportive friend can make Classic drama that prompts Claudia to ex- the difference between a happy or a eeling humbug this holiday plain, “Nobody means what they say hopeless holiday season. movies to season? Here’s a sure-fire pre- on Thanksgiving, Mom. You know F scription for kick-starting your that. That’s what the day’s supposed Opt for more fun and holiday spirit. Tuck the wee ones into to be all about, right? Torture.” less stuff revive weary bed, grab a cup of seasonal cheer, Whether this year’s drama is “And he puzzled three hours, till and settle down for a festive movie your aging grandmother deciding his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch marathon that will put the “hush” she can’t tolerate your spouse, your thought of something he hadn’t be- parents back into your holiday rush. drunken uncle knocking over the fore! Maybe Christmas, he thought, heirloom china or your youngest doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Detach from family child coming down with the worst Christmas, he thought, means a little drama kind of flu, you can remain unruffled bit more.” If an over-emphasis on the In Jodie Foster’s 1995 film, “Home regardless of what happens. Family material aspects of the holidays has for the Holidays,” Claudia Larson drama is not usually the problem you feeling as crabby as “The Grinch (Holly Hunter) flies home to spend — it’s our response that determines Who Stole Christmas,” then maybe Thanksgiving with her wildly dys- how much we will or won’t enjoy you need a refresher on the 1966 functional family. How many of us the holidays. A brisk walk or a quick Dr. Seuss TV film. Or, if you’re a Jim

12 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Carrey fan, try Ron Howard’s 2000 boss offering a kind word instead feature film version. of criticism, although I’d royally Before frustration drives you over messed up some important docu- the grinchy edge, seek relief at the ments. Next thing you know, you Center for a New American Dream. may look more kindly on the per- It’s a national non-profit foundation son who jostles you on the street, helping people challenge the “more the car that rudely cuts you off, or is better” definition of the American the telemarketer who dares to in- Dream. “More Fun, Less Stuff” is its vade your hallowed holiday home. motto. The brochure about simpli- An attitude of gratitude reminds us fying the holidays contains frugally that we have been wretched and creative and eco-friendly gift ideas, have still been worthy of love. perfect for downsizing your holiday celebrations without skimping on Spend time ‘Alone’ the fun. In the comedic family classic, Check out the brochure at www. “Home Alone,” 8-year-old Kevin newdream.org/holiday/brochure.php. McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) de- clares, “This house is so full of Do a good deed people, it makes me sick. When I In “It’s a Wonderful Life,” pe- grow up and get married, I’m living rennial do-gooder George Bailey alone.” When his extended family (Jimmy Stewart) is devastated leaves for Paris without him, he when the financial security of his discovers that his wish has come family’s Building and Loan busi- true. Does he crumble with fear? ness is threatened by a missing Does he run for the nearest sen- $8,000 deposit. But all is not lost sible adult? No, in fact, he relishes because George can’t resist help- his new-found freedom, at least for ing others in greater distress than a little while. himself. Instead of plunging to his This holiday season, there own death, he rescues angel-in- will be plenty of well-meaning training, Clarence, who beat him to messages touting the benefits of the jump. Clarence illuminates that “spending time with loved ones.” without George’s good deeds, Bed- Of course, while it’s always won- ford Falls would be a much bleaker derful to spend time with family place indeed. and friends over the holidays, Making a charitable gesture to- there is something to be said for wards someone less fortunate than taking time to be alone, too. Cer- yourself will add satisfaction to tainly, when we don’t spend time your holiday season. Is there a soup alone, we can become irritable and kitchen where you and your family exhausted. Like Kevin, when you can volunteer for an afternoon? take time to be with yourself, you How about asking your children to will find that you can better appre- donate some of their old toys to a ciate time with others. worthy cause before asking Santa for new ones? Could you spear- Buy yourself a head an impromptu fund-raiser at present your office or social group? You Still feeling a little blue this holi- may decide to donate locally or day season? All right, let’s pull out abroad. the secret weapon movie. Some- For some ideas, visit www.altgifts. times there’s nothing to brighten org or www.heifer.org/. up your holidays quite like that gift you deeply long for but have never Cultivate an received. In Bob Clark’s 1983 hilari- attitude of gratitude ous comedy, “A Christmas Story,” In the 1938 big-budget version little Ralphie Parker (Peter Billings- of Charles Dickens’ “A Christ- ley) is dying for a Red Rider BB gun. mas Carol,” we witness a ghastly, Although his parents and teachers ghostly tour of Ebenezer Scrooge’s warn that he will “shoot his eye (Reginald Owen) stingy past, pres- out,” Ralphie is relentless in imag- through ent and future. Subsequently, you ining his dream coming true. The Now JaNuary 2 may be inspired to cultivate a more dozen or so universally hilarious loving and generous attitude of childhood memories will perk you Tickets Start at Just $20. your own. Think back to every up enough to grab your car keys, Ask about our VIP Sweet Seats. kindness offered to you in times drive to the mall, sit on Santa’s lap of struggle or despair. I distinctly and ask for that ridiculous child- remember a college friend listen- hood toy you always longed for. It’s nycballet.com CenterCharge 212-721-6500 ing to my broken-hearted sob story never too late. David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center 63rd Street & Columbus Ave. and telling me afterward that I was Happy holiday movie season, American Express® is a proud supporter of New York City Ballet beautiful. I remember a former everyone!

DecemberMonth 2010 2010 • BROOKLYN • XXXXX FamiFamilyly 1333 Parenting My child is bullied but wants no help

Dear Sharon, Parents My 12 -ye a r- old daugh - helPing ter is being picked on by a group of girls in Parents her school. She is being Sharon C. PeterS, Ma bullied by them in a va- riety of ways, and she’s afraid of them, but she won’t let me do anything about it. She won’t let me contact the school, and she becomes hys- terical when we discuss it. What should we do?

Dear Parents, to a teacher, counselor, or adminis- be helpful for Mom and Dad to elicit I am sorry to hear that girls are trator you respect and who would be their child’s thoughts about possible picking on your daughter at school. able to maintain your family’s ano- ways to handle the challenges com- Unfortunately, this is a common nymity. I have heard many stories of ing her way. If parents can help their problem. caring educators who have kept an child produce a few of her own solu- Most children, especially tweens, eye out for a problem and figured out tions, it can build her confidence and are embarrassed or humiliated by ways to intervene without anyone self-esteem even under such under- the thought of “telling” on another knowing that they received informa- standable stress and strain. child and/or acknowledging that tion from a parent. I also know of • Including adult friends, relatives they are not able to handle a diffi- examples of schools that have suc- and other children who have wit- cult social situation. Nevertheless, ceeded in involving multiple staff nessed or survived incidents of bul- it is usually difficult and sometimes members in thinking through solu- lying in family discussions can help impossible for a targeted child to tions to bullying and who were will- as well. Putting a number of heads deal with repeated bullying in the ing to give parents feedback about together to generate possible solu- absence of adult intervention. progress and/or steps a child might tions can produce a variety of ideas Of course, the details of specific take to help resolve the problem. that can help. situations can be quite different, but While waiting for help from school • Having close, thoughtful friends I know of many cases when a parent there are, of course, steps to be around can also be useful. Bullies has gotten help by contacting her taken at home, as well. Here are a are less likely to be effective if there child’s school (sometimes even with- few ideas to keep in mind as you are good friends that a child can talk out her child’s permission or knowl- offer support to your child: to and stay with when aggressive edge). In most of these instances, the • I t can be hard for a parent to lis- behavior is happening. Setting up so- parent had a strong prior relation- ten to her 12-year-old recount all of cial occasions outside of school with ship with one or more staff members the gory details of bullying without caring friends can shore up a child’s who she knew could be effective at getting upset. However, if parents confidence and help her go toward offering assistance. can manage to listen to stories and friendly and supportive peers in dif- I often suggest that parents in sympathize with difficulties in a rela- ficult times. your situation begin by reaching out tively calm way, it can help a child • • • get out her stress and feel more re- I wish there were simple answers Sharon C. Peters is a mother and director of Parents helping Parents, laxed at the end of a long day. to the complicated problem of bully- 669 President St., Brooklyn (718) 638-9444, www.PhPonline.org. • Sometimes parents are quick to ing, but I do believe that getting help If you have a question about a challenge in your life (no issue is too big offer solutions to complicated prob- while offering consistent support to or too small) e-mail it to Dear Sharon at [email protected]. lems like this one. Parental sugges- your child can make a big difference tions can be useful, but it can also over time.

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photos by heatherweston.com design by luistentindo www.carmelothesciencefellow.com December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 15 special needs Seasonal minefield By ReBecca McKee, Some tips for MSeD, BcBa special needs or those of us who have the joy of sharing our lives with F a family member who has Au- families tism Spectrum Disorder or another special need, we know the feeling of living Halloween way before autumn navigating arrives, or having to listen to Christ- mas carols the first day of October. the holidays For many, the idea of happy holi- day happenings can quickly turn into too-much-too-soon and lead to a downward spiral. Here are some simple strategies that may ease the overwhelming excitement, and allow one to celebrate the holidays in a timely, successive order: • A l w ay s keep a calendar, not only for listing appointments and birth- days, but for also listing what people generally do during specific times of the year. For example, in October, I would write at the top of the page: “People decorate their homes with pumpkins. Maybe we can go apple picking. People talk about baking and eating apple pie and pumpkin bread. We can watch ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and scary movies. Everyone looks at Halloween costumes and buys bags of candy.” You should con- tinue this throughout the year. • W h e n each major holiday ends, prepare for the next holiday. When Thanksgiving ends, write the follow- ing the day after: “Start taking down Thanksgiving decorations and talk- ing about Christmas. Start writing a list about what Christmas decora- tions to get.” • Include your family member in functional tasks during the busy- • L i m i t his choices of music and bet. Letting them know the location ness of the holiday season as much movies to a seasonal selection or of the holiday dinner is a must. If as possible, such as creating a food those that are relevant all year. Lay- visitors are coming over, please let shopping list pertaining to Thanks- out the “TV Guide” to demonstrate them know. Making these changes giving dinner or Christmas cookie when most people watch Christmas known via a written note and/or pho- recipes, or having him push the cart movies. A good rule to follow is: in tographs are gladly appreciated. and find the items in the supermar- someone’s bedroom anything can • A l w ay s provide items and activi- ket. In other words, try to use his happen, but in the living room we ties to keep your family members oc- excitable, nervous energies as much have to follow certain rules. So, on cupied during these holiday meals. as possible in a positive, proactive Christmas Eve, nobody in the fam- We can amuse ourselves with con- way. ily wants to watch a movie about versation but sometimes others can- • A s each holiday ends, have your Easter! not. Keep that in mind. family member recycle the catalogs • Proactively preparing each per- Follow these rules so that YOU and magazines, as this is a physical son about the upcoming changes and the rest of your family can enjoy way to symbolize its ending. in his or her schedules is the best yourselves!

16 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Don’t Let Your Kids Get Snowed Under By Schoolwork

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 17 Technology An iPhone for baby? These days, cellphones are for more than just calls. But are the devices good for toddlers?

his holiday season, there will is years away. In the meantime, par- ing, bouncing and playing may need be lots of delighted squeals ents can draw on what we do know more supervision than one who is T when someone in the family about child development to make glued to a screen, but research shows GrowinG Up opens a package containing a new wise decisions on behalf of kids. that active play promotes both physi- mobile digital device. Often, those Here are some suggestions: cal and mental development. Screen online squeals are from toddlers and even time may also promote certain kinds Carolyn Jabs babies who are as mesmerized by Defer to development of development but the benefits are new technology as their parents and Common sense says you shouldn’t unclear and unconfirmed, so modera- older sibs. give electronic equipment to a child tion makes sense. Little kids have an uncanny abil- who drools or reflexively puts things ity to manipulate touch screens, and in his mouth. Ditto for the child who Talk! programmers are responding with a is still conducting if-I-drop-this-what- Of all the things children learn robust collection of so-called “baby will-happen experiments. in their first six years, language is apps.” All of this begs the question: one of the most important. Here Is mobile access to interactive Pick time & place the research is crystal clear. Talk- Little kids often have to accom- ing to little children — even infants pany their parents to places that — encourages more rapid and more strain their patience. complex neural development. Fool- Even a car ride can be a ing with a mobile device or, for that trial for a toddler. In these matter, any other toy, is more en- settings, a mobile device riching if parents talk about what’s may be a merciful way to happening and, with older children, pass the time. It’s also an encourage them to talk, too. Not only opportunity for parents es- is this fun but it lays the ground work tablish limits: “You can hold for the idea that, instead of being the Mommy’s phone while we’re main event, technology is valuable in the car and then you’ll give because it supports relationships. it back to Mommy.” Like other limits, this one will work only Maintain ownership if you enforce it. The best way Unless the kid is paying the bills, to create a cellphone junkie is the phone belongs to the parent to give your child random ac- (older children should be reminded cess to the device. Instead, think about this rule, too). You set lim- through the rules you want to its about lipstick, sharp knives, and establish and keep them simple. the TV remote, so spend some time Be consistent. thinking about whether, and when, you want to allow access. technology good for encourage mobility • • • tots? Despite their name, mobile devices Despite all the innovations in tech- For many parents, actually discourage mobility. Kids nology, the ingredients for a good a first rush of pride who use them tend to stay planted childhood remain surprisingly con- — look what he can firmly on their fannies, staring at a stant: loving, engaged parents; sen- do! — gives way to un- tiny screen. The American Academy sible, consistent limits; safe and abun- ease, especially when of Pediatrics continues to recom- dant opportunities to explore the kids clamor constantly mend that children under the age of 2 world. For children who have those for the phone. A recent have no time in front of screens of any essentials in place, a little time spent article in the New York size. For children over 2, the recom- with — or without — a mobile inter- Times told the story of one mended daily allowance is one hour. active device won’t much matter. tot who hid her mom’s phone Both of these rules are regularly vi- Carolyn Jabs, MA, has been writing under her bed so she would olated even by very conscientious about families and the Internet for over be able to use it whenever she parents, in part because everyone 15 years. She is the mother of three wanted. — including those parents — needs computer-savvy kids. Other Growing Up The research about how a little downtime now and then. Kids, Online columns appear on her website cellphones and other mobile however, need much, much more up- www.growing-up-online.com. devices impact young brains time. A child who is running, climb- @ Copyright, 2010, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved

18 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 You can make this Holiday Season a happy one for families in Brooklyn. Join the metrochildren family

Founded and run by early intervention clinicians and now in its 11th year of operation, metrochildren has established itself as a premiere, respected, and leading provider of early intervention services in the New York City area. Full time, part time, or independent contract employment opportunities are available for Occupational Therapists, Speech Language Pathologists, Physical Therapists, and Special Instructors (ABA). Bi-lingual abilities are a plus. Compensation rates are competitive. Together with metrochildren you can give a child the gift of a new beginning. To submit a resume online visit metrochildren.com For more information call 718-264-7250 The Early Intervention Program is funded and regulated by the New York State Department of Health and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts

The Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College is an exciting, nurturing environment where children can develop their skills and a life-long love for music, theater and dance.

 Beginner to advanced instrument and voice lessons for children and adults; audition prep  Musicianship Classes and Ensembles  Theater Classes  Dance Classes for ages 5 & up; Pre-Ballet for 3–4 year olds  Suzuki Programs for Violin, Cello, Recorder, and Flute  Adults are welcome too! Private lessons in music, theater, and dance December 18, 2010: Holiday Concert PLEASE CALL 718-951-4111 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION Visit our website www.bcprepcenter.org The Brooklyn College Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts 234 Roosevelt Hall, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11210

December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 19 Finances Affordable child care is possible

By Candi SparkS or art studio, it might be attractive dry and child care, this is a different Finding the enough that she will lower her fee. If position than one that will focus ne of the most difficult — your position comes with paid sick solely on child care. Some nannies best care for and most important — de- days, vacation days, and holidays, will cook and clean for the child, but O cisions a parent can make these perks may put you in a bet- may not be willing to do so for the is finding reliable and safe child ter negotiating position. Leverage entire family. Most nannies are hired your child care. Unfortunately, child care can whatever perks you can during the by referrals. become a budget buster, and find- interview process. ing affordable care in these tough Day care when you’re times is difficult. When you cannot Relatives When you don’t have room in be the caregiver, the choice of how A relative — for instance, a your budget for full-time care with your child spends his day guides the mother-in-law — may assist for free, paid vacations, an affordable option on a budget search for child care. So will family but then might feel comfortable to is drop-in day care, which provides finances. criticize parenting skills (but not flexible and part-time care. This op- It helps to identify what type of yours, of course). Or, you may not tion allows you to pick and choose program is needed, and then figure be overjoyed that Uncle Jim still the day and time slot combination out how to work that into your bud- smokes cigarettes in the house. Yet, that is needed. It is ideal for those get. Although a paid position gener- you don’t want to take any chances who work at home or stay at home ally creates higher expectations of with your precious child, so what’s and only need a few random hours of what will and will not be done with available for free may not always be child care. A drop in center provides your child and in your home, the the best choice. If you can find some- a safe and healthy environment and different positions — nanny, au pair, one good for free, consider yourself usually has some creative activities sitter, casual sitter, family friend, rel- lucky. Adela, in Queens, had to opt for the children. The drop-in day ative, or child care programs — all out of free family child care when care also provides a chance for your have different pay scales and infra- her son, Gian, starting using some child to socialize with others, and structures. unsavory language he picked up at many are connected with nursery If you don’t have a huge budget, his cousin’s house. schools or summer day camps. try to craft a position for a child care provider and add perks to go with Nanny Casual sitter the job. If the caregiver has access The most popular type of child A legal live-in or nanny will need to the family car, gets a ride after sit- care for working families with young to be paid on the books with health ting, or can use your swimming pool children, which has been popular- insurance and regularly scheduled ized by reality TV, is the nanny. time off. On the opposite end of Brooklyn resident Mary was able to the spectrum is the person who is ily Services (212) 383-1788, www. keep her nanny at a lower price for looking for immediate cash without Resources ocfs.state.ny.us and Administra- several years by throwing in benefits the hassles of it being a job on the Check out these websites for tion for Children’s Services (877) like vacations with the family. books — like high school and col- finding child care options: 543-7692, www.nyc.gov. “She is one of the family,” said lege students. The student may be • A good resource for finding a • Fo r finding nannies in New Mary. “The boys love her and she is most affordable, but may not be the variety of child care workers who York, www.nycnannyfinder.com very good to us.” most reliable in keeping to a sched- run the gamut from casual sitters is great. Mary found that the child care re- ule. Exams, social obligations and to live-ins is www.care.com. • I f you’re considering hir- lationship turned into “family care.” lack of interest may eventually clash • T h e r e are two agencies that ing a nanny, you’ll want to be Her situation beautifully illustrates with your expectations. The potato will assist parents in locating aware of the nanny tax and that the search for child care can chips on the sofa may someday ir- community-based child care and employment guidelines, and also consider what other needs the ritate your sensitivities. But your educational programs: www.4nannytaxes.com is a great family may have in connection with reactions may pale in comparison to Office for Children and Fam- resource. this person. If a mother’s helper is the savings in child care expenses. needed to assist with shopping, laun- The easiest place to find a student

20 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 is in the neighborhood, or even at you should check more than one a nursery school program over the It helps to identify what a local college. Many schools have reference before any hiring decision course of the child’s development. employment and career offices that is made. Make a list of interview I recommend negotiating at every type of program is needed, will keep a list of students available questions for this person as well. step in a way that will not compro- and then figure out how to for child care services. To cover For example, questions like, “Have mise the quality of care, but won’t yourself and your child, interview you ever had a medical emergency break the banks, either. If you feel work that into your budget. more than one person and keep a list on the job, and what did you do?” that you need to transition from one of five alternate candidates that you “What would you do if there was a provider to the next, try to keep a have interviewed at all times. You blackout while you are sitting?” Also, good relationship going and line up never know when you need backup lay down your ground rules and your replacement nanny before you for the backup. expectations during the interview fire the current one. Remember what process. The more you talk about is best for your child. After all, your Interviews things, the clearer they will become child is priceless, but your budget is Unfortunately, child neglect and and will help solidify your position limited. abuse lingers in the back of every for the candidate. Candi Sparks is the author of the parent’s mind when selecting child These are tough times, but a fam- “Can I Have Some Money?” book series. care. Providers should pass at least ily can easily go from family care to You can follow her on Twitter and Face- a minimal background check and full-time nanny to a sitter and on to book as Candi Sparks (writer).

December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 21 NURTURING THE JOY OF LEARNING in children 2½ years to 14 years Education Directory 41 MONTESSORI YEARS Brooklyn Friends School and nurturing staff using the Montessori OF 375 Pearl Street, 718-852-1029 or hands-on methods. The school offers EXCELLENCE INTERNATIONAL www.brooklynfriends.org full time art and music teachers, three Brooklyn Friends School is a vibrant, outdoor play areas, an indoor gym, SCHOOL OF NEW YORK thriving community of learners who are manipulatives, cultural studies, practical actively engaged in intellectual growth life and sensorial materials, language and participation in the arts and athlet- arts, math, science, and geography. AM, Where Learning Comes To Life! ics. Founded in 1867, Brooklyn Friends PM and full day sessions, summer camp, provides a college preparatory program early drop off, and transportation ser- Nursery through Junior High • Summer Day Camp serving students from Preschool - Grade vice are available. 12. It is committed to educating each Montessori School of New student intellectually, aesthetically, • Accelerated Track for Gifted Children physically, and spiritually in a cultur- York International Apply 347 E. 55th St.- Sutton Place, Now For ally diverse community. Guided by the • Excellent placement record for Specialized Quaker principles of truth, simplicity and Manhattan Fall 2011 peaceful resolution of conflict, Brooklyn 105 8th Ave.- Park Slope, Brooklyn High Schools and Gifted Programs Friends School offers each student a 55-30 Junction Blvd.- Rego Park, challenging education that develops Queens intellectual abilities and ethical and (212)223-4630 / (718)857-3341/ 3474 • Half-Day or Extended Hours for Working Parents (8am - 6pm) or www.montessorischoolny.com social values to support a productive life of leadership and service. BFS offers the We are celebrating our 40th year of • Non-profit educational, non-denominational International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma serving the Park Slope, Brooklyn; Rego Program for high school juniors and Park, Queens; and the Sutton Place, & non-discriminatory seniors. Manhattan communities! From the tender age of 2, children work joyfully Call now for a brochure/appointment Just Wee Two toward being in harmony with their With locations in Brooklyn Heights environment in time and place. To calcu- (718) 857-3341 • (212) 223-4630 and Park Slope late is a natural tendency of man. With 800-404-2204 or www.justweetwo. this theory as a basis, math concepts 105 8th Ave., Park Slope, Brooklyn • www.montessorischoolny.com com are introduced from preschool so that 347 E. 55th St., NYC • 55-30 Junction Blvd., Queens Just Wee Two offers a very special time children do excellently well in this area. for children to enjoy pre-nursery school Reading is also emphasized from the activities with the security of knowing tender years, so Montessori children Mommy (or another caregiver) is there. read fluently with good interpretation, A great preparation for pre-school, the and develop a taste for literature as well Mother & Child program is available for as learn to do research in all areas of BROOKLYN FRIENDS SCHOOL children as young as 14 months. Partial academia. Students benefit from a well- separation and separation classes are rounded program that includes swim- also available. The school has a pre- ming, gymnastics, drama, dance and nursery program, arts & crafts, music, foreign languages geared to develop play, stories, snack and creative move- multi-talented children. Children gradu- ment. ating from the school usually attend one of the competitive specialized Marks Jewish Community high schools. To help prepare them for House of Bensonhurst entrance tests, they experience a rigor- Early Childhood Center @ ous academic program. Please call the The “J” above numbers for admissions informa- 7802 Bay Parkway, 718-331-6800 Ext: tion. 133 or www.jchb.org Paerdegat Day School & The GAN provides a learning environ- Early Childhood Center ment which permits children to grow physically, socially, cognitively and emo- 1500 Paerdegat Avenue North 718-531-1111 or www.paerdegat. tionally in a manner uniquely suited to com the individual child. Our school’s devel- opmental approach provides children We offer a new Infant and Toddler with a sense of security and community. Program (for ages 6 weeks-2 years), new rooms, and all new equipment in Ellie Williams, Class of 2009 The program is open for children 2.5-5 years old. Children come to the GAN a nurturing environment. Paerdegat from a variety of cultures; the main lan- Day School (for ages 2-3 years) offers . . .where you’re always at home guage of the program is English. academic classes, stressing letters, numbers, colors, shapes and more, Midwood Montessori plus gymnastics. A free Universal and always among friends. 2825 Bedford Avenue at Glenwood Pre-K Program (must be age four by Road, 718-253-3242 Dec 31, 2010) offers new equipment We are situated in a charming Tudor and computers in a fun loving, learn- Please call or visit our website to learn about the International “Children’s House.” The school provides ing environment. The Paerdegat after a rich curriculum tailored to each child’s School Program (for grades K-6) offers Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program in the Upper School. pace. Children served are ages 2.9 to 6 transportation, homework assistance, in pre-school and kindergarten. Special healthy snacks and recreational activi- 375 PEARL STREET BROOKLYN, NY 11201 718.852.1029 attention is given to encouraging social- ties. Programs accept ACD, Begin and Union vouchers. WWW.BROOKLYNFRIENDS.ORG ization, while the academics are taught on a one-on-one basis by a dedicated Continued on page 24 22 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 SAINT SAVIOuR ELEMENTARy SCHOOL 701 Eighth Avenue Brooklyn Ny 11215

where children and grown-ups learn and play together “Educating and nurturing the minds, hearts and souls of students for over 100 years.” For 8 months - 3 1/2 years register NOW For Winter Programs nursery - 8tH Grade Brooklyn Heights Location Park Slope Location 250 Cadman Plaza West 8th Ave. & 14th Street For more information or to schedule a tour Join Us For Fun • Arts & Crafts “Just For Me” Call 718-768-8000 or • Music • Stories • Creative Movement 2½ - 3½ visit our website at • Playtime • Narrow Age Spans Separation Program www.stsaviourschool.org • Maximum 10 Children Per Class Partial Separation Classes • 1 1/2 Hour Classes • Professional Staff Also Available Infant Classes (Mommy & Me) and ABC Enrichment Classes Maura Lorenzen, Principal Also Available Gail Harvey, Assistant Principal For Information Call 1-800-404-2204 or 516-433-0003 Marcia McKenzie, Director of Admissions Or Log Onto Our Website: www.justweetwo.com Other Locations: Bayside, Plainview, Manhasset, Greenwich, & North Stamford, CT Prepare your children for the future with quality education & care

• Pre K – 8th Grade • Small Class Sizes • Individualized Attention • Foreign Language • After School Program • Computer Lab • Voucher Accepted

Parkway School One of Brooklyn’s premier private schools 5566 kings highway Tel: 718-346-0369 Fax: 718-346-0371 www.ParkwaySchool.org

December 2010 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 23 Education d Mon oo te Directory s w s Continued from page 22 g. high attendance rate. d o Parkway School Staten Island Academy i 5566 Kings Highway, 718-346-0369 715 Todt Hill Road, 718 303-7846 or or www.parkwayschool.org r www.statenislandacademy.org Parkway School is a private not for profit Successful students -- achieving their i institution that is dedicated to academic M goals in school and in life --are at the excellence. Educating students from center of Staten Island Academy. An pre-kindergarten through eight grade. independent, co-ed, college prep school Learning is the epicenter of activities at for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade Parkway. Our students engage in stimu- lating curriculum, which encourages 12, the Academy provides an inspiring intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. balance of challenge, exploration and By giving our students the ability to criti- opportunity. In Pre-K through Grade 4, cally and objectivity analyze, we can be children receive the kind of nurturing confident that they will seek to change that makes them feel at home, comfort- what they conclude needs changing and able enough to ask questions, explore, to defend and strengthen that which is and create. In Grades 5-8, students worth preserving. Academics and criti- begin to stretch their wings in a safe, cal thinking skills are not the only les- supportive environment. In Grades Pre-School & Kindergarten sons learn at Parkway. Parkway school 9-12, we put our students at the center has an excellent after school program of their high school education with out- in our Custodial Care which runs from standing academics, one of New York Summer Program 3-6 p.m., the children are supervised City’s finest college guidance programs, Transportation Available until they are picked up. Generally, and a wide variety of extracurricular they do their homework or play edu- activities. Learn more about our school cational games with other children. In at www.statenislandacademy.org. 2825 Bedford Avenue • 253-3242 our tutorial program which runs from 3:15 – 4:15 p.m. children are tutored Treasure Island Preschool at Glenwood Road in specific subject areas depending on 405 81st Street 2nd FL their individual needs. Children do not 718-238-7676 or 718-238-7950 have to be enrolled at Parkway School Their mission is to create an environ- to participate in programs. Children may ment that recognizes and nurtures be enrolled in a combined Custodial and children’s strength and unique abilities Tutorial Program. thereby building upon what children already bring in with them. Learning Rivendell School opportunities exist the extent that chil- 277 Third Avenue dren are appropriately engaged with 718-499-5667, ext. 14 the environment in activities that are A Montessori pre-primary inclusion concrete nature, capitalize on children’s Become a fan of school, was founded in 1977 as The interest, are authentic and meaningful, Children’s House of Park Slope and and reflect developmentally appropriate Brooklyn incorporated into Rivendell School in practice. Strong partnerships with chil- 1998. Rivendell provides a respectful, dren’s families are sought through par- inclusive community that helps children ent involvement to further extend and feel powerful and confident as learn- support children’s learning in the home ers and as social and emotional beings. environment. Then, and only, can all Family Toddler, half day and extended day children have the opportunity to reach programs are available (two through six their full potential. on years. Rivendell School offers beautiful Montessori classrooms, an excellent stu- Windmill Montessori dent/teacher ratio, and a warm, coop- School erative atmosphere where children learn 1317 Avenue T, 718-375-7973 or to work and play. Shelly Wolf Scott is 718-375-4277 the Admissions Coordinator. For over 65 years, has been a peaceful St. Saviour High School place to learn, with an environment that 588 6th Avenue, 718-768-4406 encourages your child to progress at www.stsaviour.org his/her own pace. The family-oriented St. Saviour High School has been Montessori method nurtures students named an “Outstanding School” says in grades Pre-k to 8th, emotionally and The U.S. News & World Report and a academically, promoting a sense of “Super School” by the Brooklyn Sunday purpose, a love of learning and civility. News. In January, 1999 the U.S. News Small classes meet the students’ individ- & World Report published their list of ual needs. Curriculum-based trips, from the top 96 high schools across the US. puppet shows to museums, culminate in The outstanding schools shared com- JHS overnights “Learning About History mon traits: a. high academic traits; b. By Living It,” with trips to Boston, a challenging core curriculum; c. highly Gettysburg and Williamsburg, VA; and qualified teachers; d. strong mentoring “Meeting Our Lawmakers” in Albany for students; e. partnerships between and Washington, D.C. French, yoga, Facebook Search: Brooklyn Family parents and schools; f. administrators phys. ed., music, art, and computer skills and teachers who know each child; and enliven the school day. 24 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Fall Registration 2011 Starts Mid January

Our Lady of Angels - 2nd Fl. - 4th Ave. bet. 73rd & 74th Sts.

5LYHQGHOO6FKRROSURYLGHVDZDUP FUHDWLYHHQYLURQPHQWZKHUHFKLOGUHQ GHYHORSLQGHSHQGHQFHUHVSHFWIRUHDFK RWKHUDQGDOLIHORQJORYHRIOHDUQLQJ Windmill Montessori School A PEACEFUL PLACE TO LEARN SINCE 1941 Accredited Preschool, Elementary, JHS & Summer Camp Windmill’s environment encourages children to OPEN • learn naturally at their own pace • find and develop their own interests and HOUSES • get the individual attention children need to thrive Tues., December 8 CURRICULUM ADVANTAGES Thurs., December 16 Wed., January 12 Montessori Method, French, Computer Skills, Thurs., January 27 Physical Education, Yoga, Music, Art , Thurs., February 10 PLUS MORE Thurs., February 24 $0RQWHVVRULLQFOXVLRQVFKRRO Small Class Size, Outdoor Recreation, A/C Classrooms, 9am-10:30am VHUYLQJFKLOGUHQWZRWRVL[\HDUVROG Curriculum-based Trips, Dedicated Staff, IRUPRUHWKDQWKLUW\\HDUV Door-to-Door Bus Service, Happy Learners and Happy Campers 718-375-7973 718-375-4277 UG$YHQXH email: [email protected] EHW&DUUROO 3UHVLGHQW6WUHHWV Windmill is non-sectarian. Licensed by The New York City Department of Health Affiliated with The American Montessori Society  1317 Avenue T @ East 14th Street Brooklyn, NY 11229

December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 25 Education Going beyond the apple 15 fabulous gifts under $10 for your child’s teacher

The best gifts come BY Denise Morrison Yearian Tide-to-Go, Static Guard and a small month to read to the class, help with tool kit. Or consider a collection of science projects or tutor students from the heart, not inding a gift your child’s health and wellness items to keep who need a little assistance. the pocketbook. teacher will enjoy at a price the classroom flu-free this winter: 7. Crazy about cocoa. Chocolate, F you can afford can be a chal- tissues, hand sanitizer, disinfectant either in candy or baked goods, is a lenging task. But it doesn’t have to spray and Clorox wipes. top choice amongst teachers. If you be. Following is a list of 15 fabulous 4. Conference day coupons. make something yourself, include the 10-dollar and under gift suggestions. Conference times make it difficult recipe so they can duplicate it when 1. You’re an angel. Get a list from for teachers to grab a hot meal or they are craving chocolate in the the teacher of practical things she squeeze in a healthy snack. But par- future. can use in the classroom then create ents can help by giving post-dated 8. Thumbs up planter. Purchase an angel tree. Children who want to special delivery coupons. Send in a a terra cotta pot and have your child give a gift can choose an angel item paid-for pizza one night during con- place random thumbprints on it that will benefit the teacher and the ference time. Or create a homemade using different colors of paint. Use classroom. fresh fruit basket and deliver it to the a permanent marker to turn the 2. Contribute to charity. Teach- school when teachers are there for thumbprints into different bugs and ers like it when families donate to a 13 hours straight. flowers. Fill the pot with a live plant charitable organization in the stu- 5. Medley of rewards. Create an and attach a note that says, “Thank dent or classroom’s name. Suggest assortment of rewards and incentives you for helping children grow.” names of charitable organizations the teacher can use in the classroom 9. Best bet bookends. Every that focus on helping children then such as stickers, character pencils classroom needs bookends but they let your child choose one to give to. and mini erasers. Websites such as can be costly. If you can’t find a set Follow up with a note to the teacher www.OrientalTradingCompany.com on sale, pick up a couple of bricks letting her know about your giving have a large variety of products and from the home improvement store efforts. may offer free shipping. and cover them with a layer of soft 3. Practical potpourri. Teachers 6. Time-honored efforts. Most foam and school-themed material. don’t often realize what they need teachers welcome volunteer efforts. 10. You’ve got talent! If you have to have on hand until it’s too late, so Create a coupon offering your ser- a special skill, talent or interest, gift an assortment of practical sundries vices to make copies, grade papers it to your teacher. Are you a hair styl- makes a great gift. Ideas include or prepare classroom supplies after ist? Offer a haircut. Manicurist? Offer Chapstick, a lint roller, safety pins, hours. Or offer to come in once a a manicure. If you like to bake, treat

26 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Ranger Rick, Your Big measuring cups. Group Backyard and more. • Teachers love to help other • Pick up a small, students learn. Gather money your teacher to a baker’s choice gifts flip-style photo from other families and pur- club membership. For Christmas, Need some collec- album and fill chase a gift certificate to a local whip up a batch of cinnamon rolls tive classroom gifts it with crowd- cosmetology school for a mani- and include a coupon for one baked suggestions? Consider pleasing recipes cure, pedicure or haircut. Pack- good every month between now and these: submitted by age it with a comb, brush, deep school year’s end. In the future, de- • Invite several fami- other families in hair conditioning packet and the liver the baked item on the same day lies to join you in taking the class- school’s brochure of services. each month so your teacher knows out a children’s maga- room. Title • Gift certificates are a popular when to expect it. zine subscription for it, “Class of present this time of year. Suggest 11. Take note! Writing supplies the classroom. Websites 2009 Cook- students in the classroom all pur- are a useful luxury. Purchase a pack such as www.Amazon. book” and chase 5 dollar gift cards to the of pretty stationery, blank thank you com and www.Maga- package it to- same educational, book or dollar notes or paper with matching enve- zinesUSA.com offer gether with a cou- store or local eatery. Collectively lopes so the teacher can write let- deeply discounted ple of kitchen ac- it will make enough to buy some- ters to her parents. Or personalize rates to such publi- cessories: spatula, thing useful or give the teacher a the gift by having your child draw cations as Highlights, mixing spoons and night out on the town. a watercolor picture. Scan it on the computer, crop the image, print it on Vellum paper and then mount it onto dollar gift card to a nearby video have then watch for sales in store colored cardstock and give it with rental store, a box of microwave pop- flyers, look on Ebay or find them at matching envelopes. corn and Swedish Fish or Milk Duds a garage sale. 12. Bestow books. Purchase candy. Stop by a local movie the- 15. Kid crafted. Teachers agree your child’s favorite book and do- ater and purchase a clean popcorn the best gifts come from the heart, nate it to the school library. On the bucket for a minimal cost to use for not the pocketbook. Cards with sin- inside cover, have your child cre- themed packaging. cere sentiments or pictures drawn ate a sticker that says, “Donated in 14. Great games. Keep kids oc- by students are the most cherished honor of (teacher’s name) by (child’s cupied indoors during inclement presents of all. name),” along with the date. weather by purchasing classroom Denise Morrison Yearian is the former 13. Reel fine. Make a movie- games. Find out what games and ac- editor of two parenting magazines, an ed- themed package and include a 5 tivities the teacher does and doesn’t ucator and the mother of three children. It’s Our Mission. Quality Health Coverage Child Health Plus with Fidelis Care • Free or low-cost health insurance coverage for children up to age 19 in New York State. • Checkups with your child’s doctor • Immunizations (shots) • Hospital and emergency care • Prescription drug coverage • Dental and vision care • Speech and hearing services • More than 42,000 quality providers

Proof of age, income, and address necessary to enroll. Child Health Plus is a New York State-sponsored Some children who had employer-based health insurance coverage within the past six months may be subject to a waiting period before they health insurance program offered by Fidelis Care. can enroll in Child Health Plus. This will depend on your household income and the reason your children lost employer-based coverage.

To find out if you are eligible for one of our government-sponsored heath insurance programs, call Fidelis Care at: 1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547)

(TTY: 1-800-421-1220) • fideliscare.org 1-866-435-9521

December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 27 Couples Relating to in-laws ou may try to keep the holi- days about family, love and Y giving, but what if you (se- cretly or not) can’t stand certain members of the family? Unfortunately, the holidays can remind us just how difficult ex- tended family relations can be. Our You love your spouse and sup- port him, but to you, his family relatiOnships may have totally different views, Joan EmErson, PhD seem to be very judgemental, or act in crazy ways. You may even feel that they treat you, your spouse or your kids, in ways that cause intense discomfort. Part of that discomfort may come from noticing that your spouse is less observant and more accepting of his family’s behaviors than you are, even though he is — at least in your eyes — often the victim. If some of these situations hit close to home, remember that there are ways you can see past it and wonder (childishly, you admit) who So what’s the most constructive enjoy the holidays. would win if it came to a question of path to take? The answer is easier If your spouse has kids from a “it’s me or them.” said than done: containment. previous marriage, his loyalty to And then, of course, spouses’ After describing some of the diffi- those kids is something that is un- families have different values when culties with the in-laws or step-kids, waveringly deep and non-negotia- it comes to the style of relating and feeling that your discomforts ble. Guilt, and ways of compen- during get-togethers. Some families and requests have been heard and sating for it, juggling the custodial talk openly about members’ lives understood, and that your spouse arrangements, and, often, dealing — who’s going through a depres- has expressed the desire to try to with the ex-spouse, can be very dif- sion, who’s going through a divorce, accommodate you the best he can, ficult for you to watch. or children with particular issues. you must keep further feelings con- With your spouse’s family com- Other families prefer small talk, fo- tained. You must deal with them ing over, you might be trying to pre- cusing on the food or keeping too yourself, and bring them up again pare yourself for a barrage of abuse busy during the visit to personally only when the timing is right and from his (in your opinion) crazy connect to each other. Both are, of you can be gentle and positive. You parents or siblings. Here, again, is course, fine, but may be difficult for must avoid being a barrier between something that can upset you more the spouse who is more comfortable your spouse and his family; it just than him. He’ll tell you he’s used with one and now has to deal with causes intense hard feelings and, to it, he can handle it, and not to the other. often, a desire to get back at you by worry. Yet, it can be consistently While issues may be bothering criticizing or rejecting your family. galling to watch the person you love you, what doesn’t work is getting When it comes to holidays and receiving and reacting to, what you more upset than your spouse is gift giving, being willing to honor clearly see as, a kind of emotional about extended family. Even though your spouse’s wish that you’d kept victimization. the intent is to be helpful by point- your feelings from causing conflict Your spouse’s ultra-close rela- ing out how things could be handled and divided loyalties between him tionship with his parents (by spend- better, how to take or give less abuse and his family is one of the best gifts ing too much time with them or or how to stand up for oneself, once you can give. Holiday times, when being too dependent on their help) your spouse has listened and ac- these stressors often emerge, can be could also make you feel uncomfort- knowledged the usually valid point, a reminder to look inward and check able — especially if you have a dif- he’d like you to just let it go. If you with yourself that you’re taking the ferent set of ideas about the desir- stay more upset about the situation high road and giving your spouse able adult child and parent relation- than your spouse, and consistently the best gift you can: acceptance. ship. Although you can admire the bring up the topic, it can cause in- Dr. Joan Emerson is a New York strong bond your spouse has with tense pain and a deep anger that be- psychologist who specializes in couples his parents, sometimes you might gins to flare up toward you, and not therapy. Visit her website at www.Joan­ feel secretly threatened by it and toward the family in question. Emer son.com.

28 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Day School, After School & Sports Program

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 29 Parenting Cross-dressing kid dear Twins, • • • I think my son is a cross-dresser. dear Twins, As a young boy he loved watching My husband and I believe our me do my makeup (and I let him try 6-year-old is being bullied either on my lipstick once or twice). And since the school bus or at school, but he the age of 11 (he is now 14) he has won’t tell us. He cries every school always dressed as a girl for Hallow- morning that he doesn’t want to go een. Finally, the other day I found a on the bus and he doesn’t want to go twice the bag in the back of his closet contain- to school, and he used to love going ing women’s undergarments. I’m ap- to school. I’ve spoken to the school advice palled. Is it my fault? What can I do? bus driver, his teacher, and to some Jacqueline and — Distraught of his friends and no one seems Kerry donelli Jacqueline says: No, it’s not your to have seen anything, but I know “fault.” Plenty of women put on make- something is going on. What should I up with zero interest from their sons. do? — Afraid If your son is a cross-dresser (which Kerry says: Have a sit down con- we are jumping to conclusions), then versation and very calmly get to the there is nothing you can do but let bottom of this. Have a talk with the him know you love him no matter school counselor as well to see if what. There is no magic pill that she can help. If he is being bullied I stops cross-dressing. would take immediate action, such Kerry says: I disagree with Jackie as speaking with the principal, the about you jumping to conclusions teacher and the bully’s parents. I because it appears your son IS a don’t want to be an alarmist, but cross-dresser. However, I agree that with bullying these days, it’s best to you should begin now to accept and err on the pro-active side. embrace him fully; he is who he is Jacqueline says: And if this ap- and he is not going to change. the program. Besides, where should proach doesn’t work, try a child psy- • • • they have sex? On the roof? If you re- chologist. Your child is uncharacter- dear Twins, ally want to estrange yourself from istically expressing anxiety and fear. I came home the other day and your son, then keep being unreason- It’s good that you saw this. There is caught my 16-year-old son having able and hysterical, and then forbid a problem, so get to the bottom of it sex with his 17-year-old girlfriend. I him to see his girlfriend. before it gets worse. was appalled and forbade them to • • • • • • have sex in my house. I can’t even dear Twins, dear Twins, stand the sight of her anymore and I My ex-husband and I have two Another young mother in my want him to dump her. What should young children ages 7 and 10 whom neighborhood (who is a friend of I do? — Disgusted I have custody of. We share them for mine) and I decided that we would Jacqueline says: Mid-adoles- holidays, when we take them to see alternate babysitting for each other’s cence is often more often then not their grandparents. We try to be fair child for one day a week so the other when teens explore sex. Your son so that each set of grandparents will has some time to herself. This past is one of them and you’re not going have the kids for Thanksgiving din- week was my second time sitting for to stop him. What you can do, how- ner with one of us each year. How- her 4-year-old for the day, and I was ever, is educate him on the impor- ever, the children really favor one ready to hang myself by the end of tance of safe sex. Be glad you found set of grandparents over the other the day. That child was into every- out now before you turn into a because the other set is so strict. I thing and had temper tantrums if I grandmother. know I can force them to go, but they tried to stop him — including kick- Kerry says: I agree with Jackie in are so miserable there … is it really ing furniture, walls, breaking dishes, that you should absolutely educate fair? — Thankful and anything else he could get his your son about safe sex. That said, Kerry says: One meal out of the hands on that was breakable. He is what century are you from? This is year is not going to kill them. Be- utterly spoiled, and I want to get out about the age when kids lose their sides, they may appreciate the fact of this arrangement. What do I say to virginity. Please, mother, get with that they got to know both grand- his mother? — No More Monsters! parents when they get older. Instead, Jacqueline says: Why not tell why not have them visit their favor- her the truth? Two children are a bit Jacqueline and Kerry donelli, twin sisters, are multi- award winning ite grandparents more often? much for you to handle every week. filmmakers. They are currently getting their Masters in Mental Health and Jacqueline says: I agree with And be done with it. have a radio show on WBcr-aM also called, “Twice the advice” — where one twin gives advice and, often, the other completely disagrees! Please Kerry. When their grandparents are Kerry says: I agree with Jacque- e-mail them at [email protected]. long gone, they will value the time line. Tell her it’s more than you could they spent with them. handle and leave it at that.

30 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 31 HealtH Disciplining children Show your child who’s calm, cool and in charge

If I start to tell my 5-year-old son that he must do something, he’ll start to scream and cry, which makes it impossible for him to listen. How can I help him calm down and follow di- Family HealtH rections? Dr. PramoD Narula, mD Chairman of Pediatrics t some point, every New York methodist Hospital parent will be faced A with a situation in which a child refuses to follow directions. It can be challeng- ing to maintain your patience and attempt to reason with your son when he doesn’t want to listen to you. As hard as it may be, try to view these experiences as opportunities to help your son understand that he won’t get what he wants by being difficult. Here are a few strategies that you can use that will teach your son to listen to you. First, get his attention by making eye contact and mov- ing close to him. Children are more inclined to follow your directions if you’re nearby. When you do give your son directions, be very straight- forward and brief. Children have a tendency to ignore adults if they talk for a long period of time or use compli- cated language. For example, if your son refuses to go to bed, instead of giving him a lengthy explanation as to why it’s important for him to sleep, say something like, “You need to go to bed now.” Also, even if you’re frus- trated, try not to yell. While it may be tempting to yell when you’re angry, raising your voice time-out location. If your son at- situation simply by misbehaving. can make it difficult for your son tempts to leave time-out before you Allow him to leave time-out when to understand what you’re saying give him permission, you should re- he’s quiet and willing to listen to and could even make it appear that turn him to the designated spot. what you have to say. you’re not in control. Instead, at- No matter how disruptive your The more consistent you are with tempt to speak at a normal volume. son becomes, you should try to using time-out, the more effective Sending your son to “time-out” be quiet and ignore anything that this discipline strategy will become. can be helpful. Pick a nearby safe he might be doing, as long as his While it may be hard to reason with spot away from television, toys or actions aren’t putting him in any your son now, things will get better anything else that he enjoys. Stop danger. Paying attention to your son over time, and he’ll eventually learn your son from whatever he happens will reward his behavior and make the importance of following your to be doing and move him to your him think that he can control the directions.

32 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Shabbat fun starts here! Tot Shabbat Every Third Friday Every Month 5pm to 6pm Spring SeMeSTer ClASSeS start February 12th December 17, 2010 • January 15, 2011 Dance classes in Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Musical Theater, • February 18, 2011 African Modern, Yoga & More!

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 33 around town

PuPPet magic: (At left) The Shadow Box Theatre’s annual perfor- mance of “The African Drum” celebrates Black History Month. (Above) “Big Annie” is a Christmas story. PS 3 to the rescue When a theatre troupe lost its space, a Brooklyn school stepped in

ince the beginning of Novem- lessly to find the theatre a new home, with the students. ber, hundreds of young chil- and, with many phone calls to many In December, the troupe will pres- S dren and teachers have expe- friends in the community, the city’s ent its annual holiday show, “Big rienced the joy of seeing a perfor- public schools came to their aid. PS Annie.” Coming in January is the mance from the Shadow Box The- 2 in Chinatown hosted the theatre annual show, “The African Drum,” atre inside PS 3, the Bedford Village for the run of its Halloween show, running through March to celebrate School, in Bedford-Stuyvesant. “Lumpy Bumpy Pumpkin.” Then, a Black History Month. Forty-three years ago, Sandra week before the troupe would be The partnership is considered by Robbins — with a cadre of talented homeless again at the start of No- many to be a win-win situation for mothers — created the Shadow Box vember, PS 3 opened its doors for all — the children, teachers, school, Theatre to fill a void in New York’s the Thanksgiving-themed produc- Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, The multi-ethnic environment. Their aim tion, “Tobias Turkey.” Shadow Box Theatre, and the city of was to present innovative musical At the time, the school’s audito- New York. puppet theatre relevant to a diverse rium was getting an upgraded sound The Shadow Box Theatre’s “Big population of young children and system and lights. The school’s prin- Annie” at PS 3, The Bedford Village families. At the time, very little chil- cipal, Kristina Beecher, and the arts School [50 Jefferson Ave. in Bedford- dren’s theatre of that nature existed. coordinator saw this as an opportu- Stuyvesant, (718) 622-2960], Dec. 9-23. The organization enjoyed its hous- nity for the school and troupe. “The African Drum” Jan. 25 - Mar. 4. ing at the Theatres at 45 Bleeker St. in Now, the children of PS 3 not only The Shadow Box Theatre’s offices Manhattan until October, when, due watch the shows, but also experi- [138 South Oxford St., #2A, in Down- to a financial dispute between the ence them as they are being created. town (718) 398-7772] and [325 West owners of the building and the man- In addition, they read the troupe’s End Ave., in Manhattan (212) 724-0677]. agement company, it was shuttered. books, and Robbins shares her inspi- For more information, visit shadowbox- Robbins and her staff worked tire- ration in the process of writing them theatre.org.

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 35 EntErtainmEnt ‘Ramona’ & family ramona and Beezus Rated G

After months of begging and pleading, your daughter is now the proud owner of a brand new puppy. She’s madly in love with the little fur ball — until he shreds her new sweater. And gobbles up her pan- cakes. And has an accident on her bedroom rug. She quickly realizes that being a pet owner isn’t as easy Laura Gray as she thought. Once her puppy is in obedience school, his rambunctiousness is cur- tailed. Your daughter learns how to train him to behave. Before long, he’s back to being the darling little pup she always wanted — at least most of the time. With some hard work, she learns that loving someone (or some- thing) means accepting his annoy- ing traits along with the endearing ones. That’s the conclusion that the Quimby family comes to, as well, in Alan Markfield/2010 Twentieth Century Fox and Walden Media, LLC. “Ramona and Beezus,” now available Ramona and her family enjoy some backyard waterworks. on DVD. Enjoy this entertaining film with your family and then discuss it overhears her parents discussing about it, but Ramona is the most with our Talk Together points. Later, their money woes and decides to upset. When the real estate agent you can get “Stuck On You” in our help out. shows the house to some prospec- Play Together activity. Ramona asks Beezus to help her tive buyers, Ramona bursts in the “Ramona and Beezus,” based on enter a competition for a national door, runs upstairs — and falls the best-selling children’s book se- advertising campaign. The winner through the ceiling. Distraught, she ries by Beverly Cleary, focuses on becomes the high-paid poster child helps convince her parents to find two sisters and their close-knit fam- for a peanut butter ad. But tomboy a way to stay in the family home. ily. The Quimbys find their house- Ramona has trouble pulling off the Beezus and the rest of the family hold turned upside-down when Dad “princess” style the company is seek- reaffirm their love for Ramona, de- loses his job. Mom must return to ing. She loses the competition, but is spite her irritating antics. After all, the workplace, leaving Dad in charge consoled by Beezus. Ramona’s other that’s what you do when you love of 15-year-old Beezus (Ramona’s money-making schemes also fail. someone. nickname for Beatrice), 8-year-old Finally, the Quimbys are forced Ramona and baby Roberta. Ramona to sell their home. No one is happy talk together Ramona’s imagination is some- times out of control. Which was Play together: Stuck on you hands allowed! At the end of five your favorite of her wild daydreams? seconds, another player removes Why does her dad encourage her to You will need: scribe the person on his or her left. each slip one by one. If the group dream? • Masking tape or duct tape Mix up the slips and spread them agrees that the trait describes “It” Ramona’s wacky ideas often cause • S l ip s of paper facedown on the floor. (Make sure accurately, “It” gets five points. If trouble for other people. Why does • Pe n s or pencils it’s a clear, open space.) To play, a trait does not apply, deduct two this happen? How do her family and Distribute 10 slips of paper to one person is “It.” Wrap several points from “Its” score. Reuse the friends respond? How would you each player. Have each person strips of masking tape, sticky side slips and let each player take a react? write five positive traits (such as out, around “Its” chest. “It” then turn as “It.” The player with the Schedule a family movie night dur- funny, creative or athletic) and has five seconds to roll across the most points wins. And everyone ing the holidays! Check out our archives five negative traits (such as messy, floor, collecting as many slips of learns the importance of loving at www.Cinematters.com and get some picky eater or always late) that de- paper as will stick to the tape. No each other, no matter what! great ideas for fun with your favorite films. © 2010, Cinematters

36 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Dentistry for Adults presents and Children Tracey H. Joseph, D.D.S., PLLC Gentle, Friendly and Nuturing Care for Your Family Kids Cafe Festival

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 37 “A GREAT SHOW IS ALWAYS IN FASHION!”New Yo rk 1 Daryl Roth presents

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38 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 39 Technology To Facebook or not to Facebook?

By Vera BorukhoV pages on Google and other search their requests in return. It allows Is it ethical engines. me to get to know my students on hould teachers “friend” their Personally, I see nothing wrong a deeper level — and the better I for a teacher students on Facebook? The with befriending my students on so- know them, the better I can teach S question is circulating around cial media, as Facebook offers cus- them. schools everywhere. tomized features that allow me to However, as long as a child is to ‘friend’ Some people feel that their keep certain information private. my student, I make it a point to Facebook page is too private to For instance, I can create a group stay neutral about the information students? share with anyone but their closest made up solely of my students and he or she shares online. Even if a friends. To them I say: Exactly what then, if I’m posting something I don’t student posts pictures of himself is it you’re posting that’s so private? want the kids to see, I can choose to smoking, wrapping weed, making Facebook doesn’t exist in a bub- block the post from that group. out, or flipping the bird, I don’t get ble. You can search for anyone on I’ve sent out “friend” requests involved online. If I see something the site — and even find Facebook to my students, and I gladly accept truly alarming on his page, I talk to him privately; otherwise, it’s his page and his business. Sometimes students will send me a personal message on the site. If the student is concerned about something, I give a quick response and then suggest he or she talk to me in person. Once the child is no lon- ger my student, then I might comment here and there if I find a status update or a picture compelling. But, if you’re worried about the ethics and privacy issues involved in being a part of your teacher’s or student’s social network, then don’t friend him or her — or do it after your student-teacher relationship is over if you want to stay connected. Vera Borukhov is the founder of Veracity Learning Inc., devoted to providing Eng- lish and Entrepreneurial edu- cation to uncover your child’s genius. Contact Veracity to bet- ter your child’s school experi- ence and give you peace of mind at (718) 790-8911. For more info, visit www.veracity- learning.com. E-mail Vera at [email protected].

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 41 special needs Autism support

By Mary Carroll Wininger know anyone who had it. I started One recent workshop involved a Queens group scouring the Internet to learn more board-certified behavioral analyst hen a young child is di- information.” speaking with the group about what helps families agnosed with autism, the While Zariah’s preschool did offer parents and caregivers should do W amount of therapy and workshops detailing what parents when autistic children have issues special attention he needs can ini- of autistic children could expect, with sensory over-stimulation. cope with the tially seem overwhelming to his par- the Queens-based mom found them “He broke it down for us and ents. But a new support group in lacking. introduced ways in which parents disorder Queens, that’s aiming to empower, “I didn’t think it was enough,” says can reinforce good behavior,” says educate the caregivers of autistic Ocampo. “There needed to be a way Ocampo. children, just might be the answer to connect with other parents and New York Lawyers for the Public for those who feel that they have no- show them how to cope and adapt.” Interest have also spoken to mem- where to turn. So, she decided to take mat- bers about the legal issues they face. Autism, a neurodevelopmental ters into her own hands. Ocampo And the group can direct parents to disorder, affects the way informa- founded the group on Nov. 1, 2006 as products and services for their chil- tion is processed by the brain, and an informal support group through dren that are free, or for which they it’s characterized by delays in social meetup.com. Back then, it was called could be reimbursed. “There are things that kids with a documented disability are entitled to have,” as- serts Ocampo. Members know how to have fun, too. “We take our kids on outings — movies, parks and zoos — places where we want our kids to develop social skills,” she explained. With all of the programs and sup- port the group offers, it’s not diffi- cult to find members who flourished there. “I can think of one example in par- ticular,” muses Ocampo. “[A mother] came to us two weeks after her son Members of the Queens County interaction and communication. The Queens Autism Meetup Group. was diagnosed. When she first came Parents Autism Coalition celebrate exact cause of the disorder is still “At first, it was just two or three to [the group], she just cried. She their accomplishments at an awards unknown, although it remains an of us meeting at a coffee shop to vented and talked with us. Then, she ceremony. area of active research. Symptoms talk about our experiences. Within left for a year to cope and grieve. of autism can appear in a child as two years, the group had taken on After that year, she came back with young as six months. a mind of its own,” explains Oca- a bang. She started out doing office Queens County Parents Autism Co- mpo. “In November 2008, we were support for [us] and in January 2011, alition is an organization that seeks to incorporated as a non-profit [and she will become our treasurer as strengthen families who have loved changed the group’s name]. Today, part of our board of directors. It has ones living with autism through sup- we partner with the Queens Special been an honor to see the transfor- port, education and networking. Education Parent Center to educate mation in her, and to see her child Group meetings, lectures and the oc- and empower parents of children progress. She and the other team casional trip to the local park are all with special needs. [Of course, our members [have become] the best part of its support method. group] offers more of a concentra- advocates for their children.” The South Ozone Park-based tion of support for families dealing The knowledgeable and support- group grew out of one mother’s with autism.” ive members give Queens families of quest to find local support when her The group allows parents the time autistic children a haven, as well as daughter was diagnosed with autism and space to vent and talk, but also a place to gather strength. For more a few years ago. provides information on caring for information, visit www.qcpac.org. “[My daughter] Zariah was diag- children with autism. Mary Carroll Wininger is a writer nosed with pervasive developmental “We arrange for meetings and based in New York City. She is a frequent disorder on June 13, 2005,” explains workshops where parents can re- contributor on topics ranging from eti- Cheryl Ocampo. “Back then, I didn’t ceive training,” explains Ocampo. quette to feng shui.

42 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 special needs KID’S EAT FREE EVERY NIGHT!

Enjoy an Dinner Entrée or Special get a Free Kid Combo, Pizza, Pasta or Mac & Cheese Autism support Every Day after 5:30pm By Mary Carroll Wininger know anyone who had it. I started One recent workshop involved a Come Together Queens group scouring the Internet to learn more board-certified behavioral analyst hen a young child is di- information.” speaking with the group about what with Family & Friends helps families agnosed with autism, the While Zariah’s preschool did offer parents and caregivers should do W amount of therapy and workshops detailing what parents when autistic children have issues THE special attention he needs can ini- of autistic children could expect, with sensory over-stimulation. cope with the tially seem overwhelming to his par- the Queens-based mom found them “He broke it down for us and ents. But a new support group in lacking. introduced ways in which parents disorder Queens, that’s aiming to empower, “I didn’t think it was enough,” says can reinforce good behavior,” says educate the caregivers of autistic Ocampo. “There needed to be a way Ocampo. children, just might be the answer to connect with other parents and New York Lawyers for the Public for those who feel that they have no- show them how to cope and adapt.” Interest have also spoken to mem- where to turn. So, she decided to take mat- bers about the legal issues they face. Autism, a neurodevelopmental ters into her own hands. Ocampo And the group can direct parents to disorder, affects the way informa- founded the group on Nov. 1, 2006 as products and services for their chil- SPOT tion is processed by the brain, and an informal support group through dren that are free, or for which they it’s characterized by delays in social meetup.com. Back then, it was called could be reimbursed. “There are things that kids with a documented Restaurant & Play Space disability are entitled to have,” as- 2 Blocks from Bklyn Bridge Park Pier 6 Playground serts Ocampo. 81 Atlantic Ave (@ Hicks) 718-923-9710 Members know how to have fun, too. Serving Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner on Two Floors “We take our kids on outings — Mon-Wed 10am– 6:30pm, Thurs—Sun 10am—8:30pm movies, parks and zoos — places where we want our kids to develop social skills,” she explained. With all of the programs and sup- port the group offers, it’s not diffi- DAYTIME FUN cult to find members who flourished there. “I can think of one example in par- ticular,” muses Ocampo. “[A mother] Singalong w Lloyd Storytime w Emily Dance w Nat Sunday Singalong came to us two weeks after her son Members of the Queens County interaction and communication. The Queens Autism Meetup Group. was diagnosed. When she first came Tuesdays, 11a Mon/Wed/Fri, 12p Thursdays, 11a 12 Noon, 1st & 3rd Suns Parents Autism Coalition celebrate exact cause of the disorder is still “At first, it was just two or three to [the group], she just cried. She their accomplishments at an awards unknown, although it remains an of us meeting at a coffee shop to vented and talked with us. Then, she ceremony. area of active research. Symptoms talk about our experiences. Within left for a year to cope and grieve. of autism can appear in a child as two years, the group had taken on After that year, she came back with young as six months. a mind of its own,” explains Oca- a bang. She started out doing office EVENING FUN Queens County Parents Autism Co- mpo. “In November 2008, we were support for [us] and in January 2011, alition is an organization that seeks to incorporated as a non-profit [and she will become our treasurer as strengthen families who have loved changed the group’s name]. Today, part of our board of directors. It has ones living with autism through sup- we partner with the Queens Special been an honor to see the transfor- Beatles RockBand Night Family Disco Party Nintendo Wii Night port, education and networking. Education Parent Center to educate mation in her, and to see her child Group meetings, lectures and the oc- and empower parents of children progress. She and the other team casional trip to the local park are all with special needs. [Of course, our members [have become] the best 1st Saturdays, 6p 2nd Saturdays, 6p 3rd Saturdays, 6p part of its support method. group] offers more of a concentra- advocates for their children.” The South Ozone Park-based tion of support for families dealing The knowledgeable and support- group grew out of one mother’s with autism.” ive members give Queens families of Plus Friday Movie Night, & Sunday Bingo Night quest to find local support when her The group allows parents the time autistic children a haven, as well as daughter was diagnosed with autism and space to vent and talk, but also a place to gather strength. For more a few years ago. provides information on caring for information, visit www.qcpac.org. Evening Activities are all Free, Child Fee is $2.50/child M-F 10am—5:30 pm “[My daughter] Zariah was diag- children with autism. Mary Carroll Wininger is a writer FUN All Day Long: Toys, Art, Games, Puppets, Foosball, Computers! nosed with pervasive developmental “We arrange for meetings and based in New York City. She is a frequent disorder on June 13, 2005,” explains workshops where parents can re- contributor on topics ranging from eti- Visit www.themoxiespot.com for More info Cheryl Ocampo. “Back then, I didn’t ceive training,” explains Ocampo. quette to feng shui.

December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 43 Books Bugging out again Greenpoint By ChuCk O’DOnnell reenpoint’s Neil Number- cartoonist Neil man didn’t want the charac- G ters in “Joey Fly Private Eye Numberman 2: Big Hairy Drama” to freeze their thoraxes off. There’s a cold snap hitting the dishes on big city in this second installment of the Mickey Spillane-inspired noir his new kids spoof. Joey Fly and his scorpion sidekick, Sammy Stingtail, go slog- graphic novel ging through the snow as they try to solve the disappearance of leading lady Greta Divawing. Numberman went out onto the streets of Brooklyn and took shots of people bundled up in hats and scarves to reference when he drew the kids’ graphic novel. So if there’s a pair of red thigh-high boots on a praying mantis that look familiar, maybe they were yours. Numberman and writer Aaron Reynolds first Joey Fly book, “Creepy Crawly Crime” was nominated for an Edgar Allan Poe Mystery Award in the juvenile category. In this whodunit, which is cur- rently out through Macmillan im- print Henry Holt, Numberman brings a bit of Brooklyn alongside more fun, more bugs and a hornets nest of suspects. Brooklyn Family: What are Joey and Sammy up to in the sequel? Neil Numberman: They are ap- proached by a gigantic, hairy taran- tula, Harry. Harry is the owner and director at the famous Scarab Beetle Theatre. His lead actress has gone missing, and he’s convinced Joey Fly is the only one that can find her in time for opening night. So Joey and Sammy are back on the case. There are quite a few suspects: a villainous stinkbug who’s dedicated to the craft of acting, a lovesick gypsy moth who’s making eyes at Sammy, a geri- Greenpoint-based graphic novelist Neil Numberman brings back his popular “Joey atric mosquito janitor and even the Fly” character in his latest kid’s comic book. 44 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 “It’s the type of book I would have loved to get on Christmas morning.“ giant mustachioed tarantula. BF: How did you improve Their looks can kill. Their show can slightly injure. over the first book, art-wise? NN: I was really uptight with the first book, because I had never worked on anything that big before. It was 96 pages; the most I had done up until then was three pages. I’m still happy with it, but it’s got nothing on the nice place to sit and snap pictures second Joey Fly, art-wise. Between where I could keep warm, but see the two books, I’ve made a lot more all the folks on their way to work. comics and I loosened up consider- (Bedford is quite hopping at 9 am) ably. The panels are a lot more fun Even though I was in hipster cen- and all over the place, [and] the tral, and I needed ’30s era clothes word balloons are dynamic when references, winter clothes tend to they need to be. be a bit more ambiguous. So after a BF: How do you take Aaron couple mornings there, I got a hun- Reynolds’s script and make it dred or so shots. They were useful “A TRIUMPH! – better/funnier/funner? for a lot of the theatre scenes to- 100 MINUTES OF NN: I try to pack each page with ward the end of the book. –The New York Times plenty of hidden jokes and hints, BF: How did a nice kid from CLEVERNESS AND COMEDY!” so folks can take a look at it more Jersey who studied illustration at than once. I also like to slip in some the University of the Arts in Phila- TICKETMASTER.COM  800.982.2787 of my own stories, told entirely delphia end up in Brooklyn? MINETTA LANE THEATER  FKB.COM through the drawings. It’s partly NN: I needed to set my sights a way for the readers to have fun, a little higher than Philadelphia. and partly so I have fun making it. So I applied to the School of Vi- BF: What did you mean when sual Arts’s graduate illustration pro- FKB_Parent Paper.4.x4.939.rev.4C.indd 1 11/10/10 11:40 PM you said you were “born to draw gram, as much for the extra educa- “ENCHANTING” this book?” tion as a reason to move up here. - NY TIMES NN: Aaron wrote a great story I knew an acceptance letter would with weird and compelling charac- light a fire under me, and when I got ters, that also happen to be insects mine from SVA, it was all the rea- and arachnids. It’s the type of book son I needed to move to New York. I would have loved to get on Christ- I lived in Manhattan for awhile, but mas morning and run up to my after school, I needed an art studio. room and sit by the heater in my I mentioned this at a party in Brook- new slippers and devour. So, when lyn, met a guy that had one with I say I was born to draw this book, extra space in Williamsburg, and I I mean any quality story that can had my spot. I shared a 100-square- be read again and again, with char- foot room with another illustrator acters that I’m fascinated with and and friend, S.Y. Choi, but we out- that inspire the imagination. I’ve grew it last year. been drawing animals and people BF: What is your workspace and monsters since I was 3, maybe like now? since I was 2 (according to my NN: I work out of home. It’s a per- mother), and I’ve never stopped. fect little set-up for me. My studio’s So in that respect, I feel like I’m in a pretty big room next to my doing what I was born to do. bedroom. I miss working around BF: You mentioned that you other friends, because I can always took photos of Brooklynites bounce ideas off them, but the up- walking on the street to use as side is I have a workspace and an inspiration. Where did you go apartment that’s all my own. My to take the shots and how did desk looks like a space station, with Wed at 11 & 2, Fri at 7, Sat at 11, 2 & 4:30, Sun at 12 & 3. this help? two computer monitors and a televi- For groups & birthday parties visit our website or call 1-866-6-GAZTIX NN: My studio at the time was sion, which I love. The more screen GazillionBubbleShow.com right on the river in Williamsburg, space in front of me, the better. and I caught people going to work For more information about Neil TELECHARGE.COM or 212.239.6200 up Bedford Avenue. Fabiane’s on Numberman, visit www.neilnumber- Fifth had a great breakfast, and a man.com. 340 WEST 50th ST.

GBS_TravelHost.4.666x.4.92.bw.1.indd 1 December 2010 • BROOKLYN11/15/10 Fami 12:51ly PM 45 BOOKS Learn the lingo New book offers tips for parents hoping to communicate with baffling teens BY JOANNA DELBUONO gating the turbulent waters of “teen- So the next time dom” gives parents hope that all is the frustration lev- hatever. Fine. Not. Don’t not lost, just a little misplaced. els ma ke you r he ad despair parents! Your chil- The guide addresses every situ- want to explode, W dren haven’t been taken ation from how to successfully ap- chillax and reach over by an alien race; it’s just teen proach conversations regarding sen- for your copy of speak that you are left to decipher. sitive topics to avoid falling into the the guide. The And just like any foreign language, trap of “Because I said so.” insightful strat- you only need patience and a good You will also find segments which egies you learn dictionary to get you through the serve as quick conversation start- will keep the rough times. Enter Barbara Green- ers and easy ways to understand lines of commu- berg, PhD and Jennifer Powell-Lun- the most commonly misunderstood nication open der, PsyD, authors of “Teenage as a words, phrases and nonverbal lan- and your home Second Language, A Parent’s Guide guage that your teen can throw at from becoming to Becoming Bilingual,” a must- you. a battleground. have for any parent that has suf- Remember that as with learning “Teenage as a Second Language, A fered through hours of one-word any new language, practice is key Parent’s Guide to Becoming Bilingual,” responses and frustrating attempts and the more teenage you speak, the by Barbara Greenberg, PhD and Jennifer at conversation. more comfortable you will become Powell-Lunder, PsyD (243 pgs. $14.95. Their sensitive approach to navi- on the road to fluency. Adamsmedia).

46 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 “DAZZLING MUMMENSCHANZ AND DELIGHTFUL!” — The New York Times

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 47 EntErtainmEnt Pee-wee in the ‘house’ Paul Reubens’s TV show hits Broadway

By Lisa J. Curtis the set of the current stage produc- to fly like his friend Pterri the Ptero- tion. Similarly, costume designer Ann dactyl. In addition to Pterri, Pee-wee ne of the Closs-Farley has embraced the Be- reunites with many of our favorite many plea- dazzler and her spectacularly garish characters from the ground-break- O sures of par- costumes should be de rigueur for ing children’s show, such as Cowboy enthood is being able Halloween 2011. Curtis (played here by Phil LaMarr) to revisit joys from Now add to THAT the electric and Chairry (the talking wing chair). our youth — under excitement of live theater. While it Fans are ecstatic to see a couple of the guise of introducing may be fun to shout along with the the series’s actors in the Broadway them to our unsuspecting show’s characters in your home each cast. Just as Pee-wee prefers his kids — without the baggage of time the secret word is heard, it is yarn-linked soup cans to Wi-Fi, the feeling juvenile or guilty about absolutely thrilling to holler along show’s producers have wisely cho- the time or cash spent. And while with hundreds of grinning fans in sen to stay loyal to those seasoned some experiences from yesteryear the Stephen Sondheim Theatre. It’s ensemble members. In addition to may make us wince upon being deliciously naughty of director Alex Reubens as Pee-wee, Lynne Marie rediscovered by older and wiser Timbers to encourage this behavior, Stewart reprises the role of Miss eyes, Broadway’s “The Pee-wee which flies in the face of the accepted Yvonne — the most beautiful woman Herman Show” doesn’t disappoint etiquette that you not open a noisy in cartoon land — and the riveting those of us that remember the candy wrapper — much less scream John Paragon pulls off the role of Emmy Award-winning CBS televi- — in a theater. Pee-wee’s audience en- Jambi the Genie just by employing sion series, “Pee-wee’s Playhouse.” thusiastically embraces this license all of the talent in his disembodied Pee-wee Herman — played to to exuberantly interact with the cast. head. (In fact, several of the actors comic perfection by apparently Speaking of manners, the multi- are original to the stage show of the ageless actor Paul Reubens — is media, vaudeville-esque stage show same name which debuted at the back at the top of his “I know you continues the series’s traditions of Groundlings Theatre in 1981.) are, but what am I?” game. prominently featuring animation, a Pee-wee prefers interacting with The T V show, which premiered wide variety of puppets — by artist his long-time friends Conky the robot in 1986, featured Reubens as the Basil Twist, and unspooling a reel of (Josh Meyers) and Magic Screen — cheeky, mercurial man-boy in now-ludicrous vintage film — in this which is akin to a talking Etch-A- the too-small gray suit and red case, about how to behave properly Sketch — to the joys of the newfan- bow tie and all of his friends — in school. gled computer. And I have to agree. I humans, puppets and animated The stage show incorporates was thrilled to leave the technology furniture alike — that hung out in nods to TV commercials old (Chia at home and take my son’s small his magical clubhouse. Together Pets, anyone?) and new (ShamWow hand in mine while enjoying this live they learned how to deal with bul- and Bumpits). This material does get version of “Pee-wee.” lies, endure a sick day, enjoy pen the laughs, but it also subversively Lisa J. Curtis is a freelance writer and pals and much more. serves as a reminder of just how well editor based in Staten Island. Earlier this year, I introduced my “Pee-wee’s Playhouse” holds up in “The Pee-wee Herman Show” is per- son to the TV series via Image Enter- 2010 and how necessary it is to share formed at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre tainment’s DVD collection. While Reubens’s still-relevant comic genius (124 West 43rd Street in Manhattan) now Photo by Joan Marcus we enjoyed watching it together, with the next generation. through Jan. 2, 2011. Performances are I was disappointed by some seg- Amidst all of the double entendres Tuesdays at 7 pm, Wednesday through ments’s dull and fuzzy quality and nudge-nudge pop culture refer- Friday at 8 pm, Saturday at 2 pm and — unacceptable in our current ences, the show — written by Reu- 8 pm and Sunday at 2 pm and 7 pm. high-def world. So it was especially bens and Bill Steinkellner — offers Tickets are $67-$122. Check www.pee- exhilarating to experience the glit- up an authentically affecting story wee.com/broadway for changes in the tering, jewel-toned eye-candy that is line: Pee-wee unrealistically hopes schedule during holiday weeks.

48 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Brooklyn College Professional Advancement and Continuing Education Youth Programs

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 49 www.webfamilyny.comwww.familyresourceny.com

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50 BROOKLYN FamiLY • December 2010 Going Places

Long-running “Drawn in Brooklyn”: Brooklyn Submit a listing Public Library’s Central branch, Flatbush Going Places is dedicated to Avenue at Eastern Parkway in Grand bringing our readers the most Army Plaza; (718) 230-2100; www. comprehensive events calendar brooklynpubliclibrary.org/branch_li- in your area. But to do so, we brary_detail.jsp?branchpageid=265; need your help! Mondays – Thursdays, 9 am–9 pm, All your have to do is send Fridays and Saturdays, 10 am–6 pm, your listing request to calendar@ Sundays, 1–5 pm, Now – Sun, Jan. 23, cnglocal.com — and we’ll take 2011; Free. care of the rest. Please e-mail requests more than three weeks Brooklyn-based children’s book illus- prior to the event to ensure we trators show off their favorite pieces. have enough time to get it in. New York Botanical Garden Train And best of all, it’s FREE! Show: New York Botanical Gardens, Bronx River Pkway (Exit 7W) and Ford- ham Road; (718) 817-8716; www.nybg. Saturdays and Sundays, 1:30 pm, Now – org; Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am–7 pm, Thurs, Jan. 20, 2011. Now – Sun, Jan. 2, 2011; $20 ($10 chil- Learn about nature. dren, children under 2 free). Bedtime stories: Leonard Library, 81 More than one dozen large-scale Devoe St. between Metropolitan Av- model trains running on nearly a quar- enue and Anslie Street; (718) 486-3365; ter-mile of track along with replicas of www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Mon- Manhattan landmarked buildings. days, 6 pm, Now – Mon, Dec. 27; Free. Race to the End of the Earth: Children three to eight enjoy cuddle American Museum of Natural History, up stories and activities. Central Park West at 79th Street; (212) 769-5100; www.amnh.org; Daily, 10 Babies and books: Flatlands Library, am–5:45 pm; Now – Sun, Jan. 2, 2011; 2065 Flatbush Ave. between Quentin Donations suggested. Road and Avenue P; (718) 253-4409; The exhibit recounts the most stir- www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Mon- ring tales of Antarctic exploration: the days, 3:30 pm, Now – Mon, Dec. 27; contest to reach the South Pole in 1911- Free. 1912. Highlights include photographs, Little ones birth to 18 months and paintings, and rare historical artifacts their caregivers listen to songs. as well as actual items of clothing and Pre-school story time: Windsor Ter- tools; life-sized models of portions of race Library, 160 East Fifth St. between Amundsen’s and Scott’s base camps; Ft. Hamilton Parkway and Caton Av- and a diorama featuring the largest of all enue; (718) 686-9707; www.brooklyn- penguin species alive today, the emperor publiclibrary.org; Wednesdays, 10 am, penguin. There are also interactive and Now – Wed, Dec. 29; Free. hands-on activities for all ages. A holiday sweet For children three to five. “Beauty and the Beast”: Puppet- Word Play - Imaginative Story- works, 338 Sixth Ave. at Fourth Street; his “Nutcracker” is a sweet cent and humorous classical cho- telling: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 (718) 965-3391; www.puppetworks. West 17 Street, between 6th and 7th org; Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 pm classic. reography, the thrill of witnessing avenues; (212) 620-5000 X 344. www. and 2:30 pm, Now – Sun, Dec. 19; $8 On Dec. 19, the Vicky the wonderful talent of the com- T rmanyc.org; Wednesdays, 4–5 pm, Now (kids, $7). Simegiatos Dance Company puts munity’s young dancers, and the on a full-length production of the intimacy of the neighborhood the- – Wed, Dec. 29; $10 ($5 for museum Classic tale — with marionettes. members children; Accompanying adult classical ballet, starring — as per atre, the production promises fab- Story time for kids: Greenlight free). usual — world-renowned bal- ulous entertainment for children Bookstore, 686 Fulton St. between Children ages four to six can travel South Elliott Place and South Portland let star Jenifer Ringer, principal and theatre-goers of all ages. to the Himalayas with their imagination Avenue; (718) 246-0200; abookstor- of the New York City Ballet, as “The Nutcracker” at the Richard through a series of fun and interactive einbrooklyn.blogspot.com; Saturdays, the Sugar Plum Fairy, as well as Perry Theatre at Poly Prep [Sev- stories perfect for the whole family. 10:30 am, Now – Tues, Jan. 11, 2011. young members of the company enth Avenue and 92nd Street in Bay Children’s movie: Leonard Library, performing the other roles. Ridge, (718) 680-0944], Dec. 19 at 1 Science power hour: Prospect Park 81 Devoe St. between Metropolitan Av- Audubon Center, Enter park at Lincoln Given the lush and familiar pm and 6 pm. Tickets $25-$35. For enue and Anslie Street; (718) 486-3365; Road and Ocean Avenue; (718) 287- Tchaikovsky score, the magnifi- info, visit www.vsdcnews.org. www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Thurs- 3400; www.prospectpark.org/audubon; Continued on page 52 December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 51 Going Places

Continued from page 51 cobblehilltheatre.com‎; 4 pm; $7. days, 2 pm, Now – Thurs, Dec. 30; Free. Call for titles. Tues, Nov. 30 PlayStation: Sheepshead Bay Library, “Steps Across the Water”, writ- 2636 East 14th St. between Voorhies ten by Gopnik and illustrated by Avenue and Avenue Z; (718) 368-1815; Bruce McCall: PowerHouse Arena, www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Thurs- 37 Main St. at Water Street; (718) 666- days, 4 pm, Now – Thurs, Dec. 23; Free. 3049; www.powerhousearena.com; Join friends and play video games. 4:30–5:30 pm; Free. Tutoring by BUPH: Rugby Library, Bestselling author and New Yorker 1000 Utica Ave. between Snyder and staff writer Adam Gopnik and legendary Tilden avenues; (718) 566-0054; www. illustrator. brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Saturdays, Tree lighting: Gazebo, 90th St. and 2:30 pm, beginning Sat, Dec. 4; Free. Shore Rd. 7:30 pm; Free. For ages 8 to 12 in grades one Meet Santa, Christmas Caroling through six. Registration required. by Xaverian High School chorus and “Big Annie”: PS 3 - The Bedford Vil- refreshments. lage School, 50 Jefferson Ave. between Bedford and Franklin avenues; (212) Thurs, Dec. 2 724-0677; [email protected]; www.shadowboxtheatre.org; Thurs- Tree lighting: Our Lady Perpetual day, Dec. 9, 10:30 am; Friday, Dec. 10, Help (in front of), 526 59th St. between 10:30 am; Monday, Dec. 13, 10:30 am; Fifth and Sixth avenues; (718) 439-7767; Tuesday, Dec. 14, 10:30 am; Wednes- 3–6:30 pm; Free. day, Dec. 15, 10:30 am; Thursday, Dec. Hear Christmas carols, visit with Santa 16, 10:30 am; Tuesday, Dec. 21, 10 am; and see a magic show performed by Wednesday, Dec. 22, 10 am; Thursday, King Henry. Dec. 23, 10:30 am; $15. Karaoke and dance: Clarendon Li- The tale of a Creole flatboat captain brary, 2035 Nostrand Ave. at Farragut and larger-than-life heroine. Road; (718) 421-1159; www.brooklyn- publiclibrary.org; 3:30 pm; Free. “The Hard Nut”: Brooklyn Academy of Music, 30 Lafayette Ave. near St. Felix Santa Claus is coming For tweens and teens. Street; (718) 636-4100; www.bam.org; anta Claus is coming to optional vintage rocker or Harley Tree lighting: Belarusan Church, Friday, Dec. 10, 7:30 pm; Saturday, Dec. town, and she’s — yes she’s Davidson ride-on next to Santa. Atlantic Avenue at Bond Street; 6 pm; 11, 7:30 pm; Sunday, Dec. 12, 3 pm; — full of cheer. For $20, families will receive Free. Wednesday, Dec. 15, 7:30 pm; Thurs- S Still Hip, the funky children’s two four-by-six prints right away. Sponsored by the Atlantic Avenue day, Dec. 16, 7:30 pm; Friday, Dec. 17, Local Development Corporation. 7:30 pm; Saturday, Dec. 18, 7:30 pm; resale boutique, has invited lady- For an extra $20 photographer Sunday, Dec. 19, 3 pm; $25-$70. Santa Erica Goepel back to the Malik Cumbo will create a disc Mark Morris’s 1970s-styled twist on Clinton Hill store to revise her with all the shots. Fri, Dec. 3 the holiday classic, “The Nutcracker.” role as Kris Kringle. Santa Claus at Still Hip [283 Book fair: International School of “Bethlehem or Bust”: The Brick, This very untraditional Santa Grand Ave. between Clifton Place Brooklyn, 477 Court St. at Nelson 575 Metropolitan Ave. at Lorimer Street; will be dressed in the traditional and Lafayette Avenue in Clinton Hill, Street; (718) 369-3023; njudelson@is- brooklyn.org; 2–7 pm; Free. (212) 352-3101; www.bricktheater.com; Santa Claus costume (beard and (718) 398-0008], Dec. 4, 5, 11 and 12 Saturday, Dec. 11, 2 pm; Sunday, Dec. all). Children can have their pic- from 2 to 6pm. For info, visit stillhip- Children’s books, magazines, games, face painting and food. 12, 2 pm; Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2 pm; ture taken on Santa’s lap or on the brooklyn.com. Friday, Dec. 17, 8 pm; Saturday, Dec. 18, French, Spanish Book Fair: Inter- 2 pm; Sunday, Dec. 19, 2 pm; Saturday, national School of Brooklyn, 447 Court Jan. 1, 8 pm; Sunday, Jan. 2, 2 pm; $15. St. between Third and Fourth places; Holiday family comedy. other interesting stuff. Sun, Nov. 28 (718) 369-3023 X 209; njudelson@is- brooklyn.org; www.isbrooklyn.org; 2–7 Family Disco Night: Moxie Spot, 81 Handiwork: Lefferts Historic Home- Winter on a Flatbush Farm: Lef- pm; Free. Atlantic Ave. between Hicks and Henry stead, 452 Flatbush Ave. between Em- ferts Historic Homestead, 452 Flat- This annual event offers children’s streets; (718) 923-9710; themoxiespot@ pire Boulevard and Eastern Parkway; bush Ave. between Empire Boulevard books, magazines, games, face painting gmail.com; themoxiespot.com; Satur- (718) 789-2822; www.prospectpark. and Eastern Parkway; (718) 789-2822; and food. day, Dec. 11, 6 pm; Free with Dinner. org; Daily, 1–3 pm, Sun, Dec. 26 – Sun, www.prospectpark.org; 3 pm; Free. Jan. 2, 2011; Free. Book fair: Barnes and Noble Park The Doll Club: St. James Lutheran A special appearance by St. Nicholas. Children try their hand at needlepoint Slope, 267 Seventh Ave. at Sixth Street; Church, 2776 Gerritson Ave. at Florence or write in quill and ink. Dan Zanes: Music Hall of Williams- (718) 832-9066; 6:30 pm; Free. Street. (718) 373-7990. burg, 66 N. Sixth St. between Kent and Musical performance by the PS 321 The First Doll Club of Brooklyn is for Sat, Nov. 27 Wythe avenues; (718) 486-5400; www. Children’s Chorus. all doll enthusiasts. musichallofwilliamsburg.com; 3 pm; Tree lighting: Frank’s Pizzeria, Bay Winter in the Wild: Prospect Park Winter on a Flatbush Farm: Lef- $25. Ridge Pk’way at 13th Avenue; 917-375- Audubon Center, Enter park at Lincoln ferts Historic Homestead, 452 Flat- Everyone’s favorite children’s music. 2849; 7 pm; Free. Road and Ocean Avenue; (718) 287- bush Ave. between Empire Boulevard Hot chocolate, Santa, Christmas car- 3400; www.prospectpark.org/audubon; and Eastern Parkway; (718) 789-2822; Mon, Nov. 29 Daily, 1–3 pm, Sun, Dec. 26 – Sun, Jan. www.prospectpark.org; 1–4 pm; Free. ols, give-aways and live music. 2, 2011; Free. Learn how to make candles, start a “Bugs Bunny”: Cobble Hill Cinema, Holiday concert: St. Patrick’s Audito- Children discover how squirrels get patchwork quilt, and preserve food for 265 Court St. between Butler & Doug- rium, 9511 Fourth Ave. (718) 482-3173; their food, how birds stay warm and the coming months. lass streets; (718) 596-9113; www. 8 pm; $10, ($5 children). 52 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Going Places Narrows Community Theater presents Brightwater Court; (718) 646-1444; an evening of song and dance. www.shorefronty.org; 2:30 pm; $6 (free, children 2 and under). Sat, Dec. 4 The Chanukah story, songs, crafts, games, treats and prizes. A Sunny Day Family concert: Pe- ter J Sharp Theater, 155 West 65th St. Holiday concert: 3 pm. St. Patrick’s at Broadway; (212) 864-5400; www. Auditorium. See Friday, Dec. 3. symphonyspace.org/justkidding; 11 am; Winter concert: St. Peter’s Church, $13-$27. 53 St. Mark’s Pl. at Westervelt Avenue; Elizabeth Mitchell and Family perform (718) 448-3656; www.richmondchoral. folk standards. com; 4 pm; $25 ($20 seniors; $5 stu- Book fair: 11 am–3 pm. International dents, children under 5 free). School of Brooklyn. See Friday, Dec. 3. Missa Brevis of J.S. Bach, under the direction of Marina Alexander, musi- French, Spanish Book Fair: 11 cal director, performs Psalmkoncert of am–3 pm. International School of Heinz Werner Zimmermann, the Jubilate Brooklyn. See Friday, Dec. 3. of Felix Mendelssohn, and selected holi- day fare. St. Nicholas Day: Wyckoff Farm- house Museum, 5816 Clarendon Rd. Advent tree lighting: Visitation (718) 629-5400; education@wyckoffas- Academy, 8902 Ridge Blvd. at 90th sociation.org; www.wyckoffassociation. Street; (718) 680-9452; 6:30 pm; Free. org; Noon; $5 for adults, $3 for chil- dren, students and seniors. Enjoy warm apple cider, ginger cook- Mon, Dec. 6 ies, seasonal crafts, a house tour and “Meet Me in St. Louis”: Cobble Hill holiday music. Cinema, 265 Court St. between Butler & Douglass streets; (718) 596-9113; www. Centering circus: Brooklyn Public cobblehilltheatre.com‎; 4 pm; $7. Library’s Central branch, Flatbush Av- enue at Eastern Parkway in Grand Army Plaza; (718) 230-2100; www.brooklyn- Wed, Dec. 8 publiclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. jsp?branchpageid=265; 1 pm; Free. Christmas tree lighting: Borough Hall, 209 Joralemon St. at Court Street; Juggling, plate spinning, stilt walking, (718) 802-3700; 5:30 pm; Free. comedic acts, balancing, unicycle riding, hula hoop acts and clowning. Celebrate with Suzi The borough’s “official” Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Hannukah Lights: Brooklyn Chil- et down this holiday sea- vided by the Little Buddy Biscuit dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at son with the Suzi Shelton Company. Thurs, Dec. 9 St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; Band. The Suzi Shelton Band’s Rockin’ www.brooklynkids.org; 1:30–2:30 pm; G PS 10 art show: Barnes and Noble Free with museum admission. On Dec. 12, award-winning re- Holiday Party at The Bell House Park Slope, 267 Seventh Ave. at Sixth Children six and older learn about the cording artist Suzi Shelton, Kira [149 Seventh St. between Second and Street; (718) 832-9066; 6:30–7 pm; symbols and traditions and then make a Willey and other special guests Third avenues in Gowanus, (718) Free. candle holder to take home. present a holiday concert for the 643-6510], Dec. 12 at 11:30 am. Tick- Local students present their work. Book fair: Barnes and Noble Park whole family at the Bell House in ets $10 advance, $12 at the door, free Slope, 267 Seventh Ave. at Sixth Street; Gowanus. for children 2 years old and younger. Fri, Dec. 10 There will be lots of holiday For info, visit www.thebellhouseny. (718) 832-9066; 2 pm; Free. A-bomb survivors: Brooklyn Inter- Make a holiday globe with the Brook- cheer, ’cause treats will be pro- com. national HS, 49 Flatbush Ext. at Bridge lyn School of Inquiry, for children to Street; [email protected]. seven years old. 1:30–3 pm; Free. Santa visit: Still Hip, 283 Grand Ave, students). Children 12 and under create na- Hiroshima survivors speak to high off Lafayette Avenue; (718) 398-0008; The Brooklyn Conservatory Commu- ture-themed scrapbooks. All materials school students. www.stillhipbrooklyn.com; 2–6 pm; $20 nity Orchestra performs works of Strav- provided. Candlelight tour: Wyckoff Farm- (per photo package). insky, Turina and Puccini. house Museum, 5816 Clarendon Rd. Have your tot take a picture with gal Spy-ence: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks between East 59th Street and Ralph Av- Santa and get your holiday shopping Holiday concert: 8 pm. St. Patrick’s enue; (718) 629-5400; 4:30 pm; $7 ($5 Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www.brook- done early. Auditorium. See Friday, Dec. 3. children, members free). lynkids.org; 1:30–2:30 pm; Free with Orientation - YouthWorks 2011: museum admission. Families explore the historic farm house. Not recommended for young Brooklyn Arts Exchange, 421 Fifth Ave. Sun, Dec. 5 Children five and up learn about com- at Eighth Street; (718) 832-0018; bax. children. RSVP required. Chanukah party: Kings Bay Y, 3495 municating in code. org/youth/festivalsevents/youthworks; Nostrand Ave. at Avenue V; (718) 648- World Beat: A Global Music Extrava- 2:30–4 pm; Free. Hannukah Lights: 1:30–2:30 pm. 7703; 11 am–2 pm; Free. ganza: Brooklyn Center for the Per- Interested young artists, their parents, Brooklyn Children’s Museum. See Satur- Rides for children, arts and crafts, lat- forming Arts at Brooklyn College, 2900 and coaches learn about the program day, Dec. 4. Campus Rd. at Hillel Place; (646) 458- kas, menorah lighting, music and gifts and the process of developing original 2815; www.stathhc.org; 7:30 pm; $55, for children. Santa visit: 2–6 pm. Still Hip. See Sat- work into a professional performance. $40, $30. urday, Dec. 4. Classical concert: St. Saviour Children’s Hour: Salt Marsh Nature Haitian artist Alan Cave headlines in- High School, 588 Sixth St. (212) 209- Center, 3302 Avenue U; (718) 421-2021; Chanukah party: Shorefront YM- ternational lineup of performances. 3370; www.bqcm.org; 8 pm; $15, ($8 1 pm; Free. YWHA, 3300 Coney Island Ave. at Continued on page 54 December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 53 Going Places Continued from page 53 661-1890; www.sdachurchinbabylon. Sat, Dec. 11 org; 11 am; Free. Bible class and interactive puppet Holiday flea market: The Church show. All ages. of the Holy Nativity, 3061 Bainbridge Ave. at 204th Street; (718) 409-6912; 9 Santa visit: 2–6 pm. Still Hip. See Sat- am–7 pm; Free. urday, Dec. 4. Fundraiser. New and used items, Sing-It-Yourself Messiah: Union sports memorabilia, clothing, bric-a-brac Church of Bay Ridge, 8101 Ridge Blvd. and glassware. between 81 and 82nd streets; (718) PS 39 art show: Barnes and Noble 745-0438; www.ucbr.org; 4 pm; $15 Park Slope, 267 Seventh Ave. at Sixth ($12 students and seniors). Street; (718) 832-9066; 10 am; Free. Bid to conduct the Hallelujah chorus Local students present their work. with the Academy of Union Church. Preschool story time: Brooklyn Public Library’s Central branch, Flatbush Mon, Dec. 13 Avenue at Eastern Parkway in Grand Karaoke and dance: 3:30 pm. Clar- Army Plaza; (718) 230-2100; www. endon Library. See Thursday, Dec. 2. brooklynpubliclibrary.org/branch_li- brary_detail.jsp?branchpageid=265; Tree lighting: Lady Moody Square, 11:30 am; Free. Van Sicklen St. and Avenue U; (718) For children three to five. 238-6044; 6:30 PM; FREE. Christmas caroling, hot chocolate and Santa visit: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- Santa. seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www.brook- lynkids.org; Noon–4 pm; Free with mu- Tues, Dec. 14 seum admission. Tree lighting: McKinley Park, Ft. Children meet the jolly old elf. Hamilton Pk’way and Bay Ridge Park- “Echoing Voices”: Brooklyn Public way; (718) 238-6044; 6:30 PM; FREE. Library’s Central branch, Flatbush Av- Christmas caroling, hot chocolate and enue at Eastern Parkway in Grand Army Santa. Plaza; (718) 230-2100; www.brooklyn- publiclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. Wed, Dec. 15 jsp?branchpageid=265; 1 pm; Free. Musical history of America. Christmas fair: Visitation Academy, 8902 Ridge Blvd. at 90th Street; (718) Santa at the Marsh: Salt Marsh Na- 680-9452; 9 am–2:30 pm; Free. ture Center, 3302 Avenue U; (718) 421- Get a jump on holiday shopping. 2021; 1 pm; Free. Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa is back for his an- Internet workshop: Clarendon Li- nual visit. brary, 2035 Nostrand Ave. at Farragut Road; (718) 421-1159; www.brooklyn- Linked by lights: Brooklyn Children’s publiclibrary.org; 1:30 pm; Free. Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Learn how to search online for Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www. grants, scholarships and other financial brooklynkids.org; 1:30–2:30 pm; Free assistance. with museum admission. Children six and up learn about Christ- A beary fun bash mas, Hannukah, and Kwanzaa. Fri, Dec. 17 hese bears sure know how the Swedish Cottage Marionette “Toy Story”: Pacific Library, 25 Fourth Santa visit: 2–6 pm. Still Hip. See Sat- to party. Theatre in Central Park is the Ave. at Pacific Street; (718) 638-1531; urday, Dec. 4. T The talented people at perfect place to tell this vibrant http;//www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Christmas celebration: Cannon Ball the Swedish Cottage Marionette seasonal story,” said David Rivel, 4–5 pm; Free. Park, Enter at 100th St. and Fourth Ave- Theatre in Central Park invite you executive director of City Parks Join Woody, Buzz and the whole nue; (718) 238-6044; quaglion@senate. to get in the holiday spirit with Foundation. gang. state.ny.us; Noon–4 pm; Free. the marionette production of This spin on the classic “Goldie Origami: Brighton Beach Library, Visit with Santa, hear carolers and “The Three Bears Holiday Bash,” Locks and the Three Bears” 16 Brighton Beach First Rd. between watch Brooklyn’s own Rockettes in a now through Dec. 30. brings a diverse community to- Brightwater Court and Brighton Beach special Christmas performance while sip- Avenue; (718) 946-2917; www.brook- ping hot chocolate and munching on Experience all the fun and gether to celebrate the holidays. lynpubliclibrary.org; 4 pm; Free. candy canes. There will even be a U.S. error that occurs when Baby “The Three Bears Holiday Bash” Postal Mailbox which will provide direct Bear invites Santa to Mama and at the Swedish Cottage Marionette Children learn the ancient art of paper folding. mail service to the North Pole for letters Papa Bears’ Christmas Show. Theatre in Central Park [81 Street to Santa. Sun, Dec. 12 With song, dance and puppetry, and Central Park West in Manhattan, Candlelight tour: 4:30 pm. Wyckoff Concert: Barnes and Noble Park Slope, the story draws inspiration just south of the Delacorte Theater, Farmhouse Museum. See Friday, Dec. 267 Seventh Ave. at Sixth Street; (718) from Christmas, Hanukkah and (212) 988-9093], now through Dec. 10. 832-9066; 10 am; Free. Kwanza. 30. Reservations required. $5/chil- Children from MS 443 perform. “As one of the most fascinating dren and $8 adults. For info, visit Sat, Dec. 18 Children’s Church: Seventh -day Ad- children’s theatres in the country, www.cityparksfoundation.org. Holiday party: CPAC, 1020 E. 48th ventist Church, 136 Fire Island Ave. (631) St. at Farragut Road; (718) 666-6194; 54 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 Going Places 1–8 pm; $10. Douglass streets; (718) 596-9113; www. Celebrate Christmas , Hanukkah and cobblehilltheatre.com‎; 4 pm; $7. Kwanzaa with food, entertainment , Free tee-shirts for all kids attending. games and raffles . All children who at- Holiday food drive tend leave with an age appropriate toy . Thurs, Dec. 23 hildren at the Montessori Doubletree will donate $.10 to “The Magical Castle of Now”: Arts and crafts: Dyker Library, 8202 Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 School of New York Inter- World Food USA for each item national and Doubletree collected. 13th Ave. between 82nd and 83rd Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Avenue; C streets; (718) 748-6261; www.brooklyn- Hotels are partnering in a holiday To help these students meet (718) 735-4400; www.brooklynkids. publiclibrary.org; 3:15 pm; Free. org; 1–1:30 pm and 2–2:30 pm; Free food drive, hoping to reach a goal their goal drop off your contribu- Create holiday decorations. with museum admission. of collecting 500,000 non-perish- tion at any of the three school Children of all ages hear stories about able food items to help those less campuses. light, family and tradition. fortunate. Drop off non-perishable foods Sat, Jan. 1 Santa visit: 1–4 pm. Brooklyn Chil- Collection containers designed [105 Eigth Ave. in Park Slope], [347 Story time with Mary: Barnes and dren’s Museum. See Saturday, Dec. 11. by the children have been placed E. 55th St. in Manhattan], [55-30 Noble Park Slope, 267 Seventh Ave. in each of the three schools and Junction Blvd. in Queens] by Dec. at Sixth Street; (718) 832-9066; Noon; “The Nutcracker”: Kingsborough in the Doubletree Hotel lobbies. 31. Free. Community College, 2001 Oriental Blvd. For children four to eight. at Decatur Avenue; (718) 368-5000; www.kingsborough.edu; 2 pm; $12. Team, the PS 97 Show Choir and the “The Nutcracker”: Brooklyn Chil- Sat, Jan. 8 Performed by the Brighton Ballet The- Brooklyn Community Chorus. dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at Bowling lessons: Maple Lanes, 1570 ater’s Russian American Kids Ballet. St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; 60th St. between 15th and 16th av- Jingle Bell Jamboree: Old First www.brooklynkids.org; 1:30 pm and Sun, Dec. 19 enues; (718) 331-9000; 10–11:30 am; Reformed Church, 729 Carroll St. at 2:30 pm. Free. Seventh Avenue; (917) 514-4591; eon- “The Nutcracker”: Richard Perry The Brighton Ballet Theater performs Children six and up learn the game [email protected]; 7 pm; $5-$10 (sug- Theatre at Poly Prep, Seventh Avenue excerpts from the holiday classic. from members of the junior coaching gested donation). and 92nd Street; (718) 680-0944; staff. Pre-registation required. Holiday concert featuring perfor- www.vsdcnews.org; 1 pm and 6 pm; Mon, Dec. 20 mances by The Brooklyn Tech High $25-$35. Story time with Mary: Noon. School Choir, The Old First Family String Presented by the Vicky Simegiatos “Pippi Goes on Board”: Cobble Hill Barnes and Noble Park Slope. See Satur- Band, St. Joseph’s High School Step Dance Company. Cinema, 265 Court St. between Butler & day, Jan. 1.

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 55 It fi gures BY CYNTHIA WASHAM HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS

Number of years Coca-Cola has 75: been using Santa Claus in its ads. 600 A.D. Approximate year Pope Percent of children visiting Gregory first encouraged 80: Santa Claus that psychology the tradition of bringing researcher John Trinkaus discovered greenery indoors to are indifferent toward him. celebrate Christmas.

Percent 87:of their parents who appeared The year happy during the Santa visit. 1917:Boys Town, for homeless boys — now Girls and Boys Town — was founded in Omaha, NE, on Dec. 12, by Father Edward Year a Flannigan. 1957:woman baking peanut butter cookies in Ohio stuck a Hershey’s Kiss in the middle to create the 2 million first Peanut Blossom, Number of people who pay one of $13.99 a year for American the holiday Greetings’ e-card service season’s featuring 30,000 e-cards, most popular including many for the cookies. holidays.

Percent of people who 25: consider “A Christmas Carol” their favorite Christmas show.

Percent who picked either 12:“It’s A Wonderful Life” or “Charlie Brown’s Christmas.”

Percent of Jewish Percent who 13:couples who had an 75: exchange Christmas interfaith marriage before 1970. presents.

Percent who Percent of interfaith 47: have an interfaith 50: couples who put up a marriage now. Christmas tree.

Sources: Marketing Week, Improbable Research, Interfaithfamily.com, University of Connecticut, Boystown.org, Associated Content, Bugwood.org, Notmuch.com, Mother Nature Network 56 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 ~ Party Planners ~ Moscow Circus Performer Carmini the magiCian Rico The Clown For All Occasions: ★ Best prices in town Magician As seen Clown Your audience will laugh and have a Comical Nerd on TV ★ Juggler great time at a fun-filled show with ★ Magician magic, comedy, audience participation, • Magic • Balloon Sculpting Rico is a fun for young and old • Comedy • Roasting University ★ Balloons Professor of ★ Live Dog Show • Educational Shows Speech and magic, Clowns, Ventriloquists, Balloons, • Adults/Kids Communication ★ Face Painting Face Painting and Characters Free Candy & Prize Giveaways 718-434-9697 • 917-318-9092 917-804-0822 wwwArlekinA.com 718.633.9137 • 917.754.5755

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN Family 57 community marketplace

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58 BROOKLYN FamiLY • December 2010 community marketplace

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Where to go in March? Check out our Right bites! Where to go in October? Check out our Eat your way to better health Going Places Going Places Check out our Going Places Going Places Where to go in February? Check out our WHERE TO GO IN JULY?

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December 2010 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 59 New & Noteworthy Tall order Chair style Don’t mark up a wall to keep This colorful chair makes a Haring, who was track of your child’s growth. This Fire wonderful addition to a child’s prominent during the Truck Growth Chart is a fun, decora- room. 1980s, was first rec- tive way to note every inch your little Inspired by the art of New ognized for the chalk boy (or girl!) grows. York artist Keith Haring, the drawings he created The decal adheres to walls, wooden seat, made by French in the subways. At windows and other surfaces, and designers Unica, comes in a least with this chair, comes with adhesive markers so variety of bright, primary you can have a perma- you can keep track of your child’s colors, including yel- nent piece of the col- growth without leaving a mark, as low and orange — lection. well as reuse for another little fire- but just the one, For more informa- fighter. fun shape, which tion on the Keith Haring The chart comes in a variety of col- is perfect for sit- chair, visit www.unica- ors — through red is sure to be a ting. home.com. desirable option — can measure up to five feet. It also comes with four ladder pieces, five numbers and five hose markers. The only Go green thing missing is the fire hat! You dress your kids in all-natural that the detergent she used on their Fire Truck Growth Chart by DECOmod- clothing, use all-natural body lotions, clothing failed to meet her health walls. $30 plus shipping. For info, visit and your toys are all handmade. But standards — with her concerns www.etsy.com/shop/decomodwalls. how green are your cleaning prod- ranging from rashes resulting from ucts? use to un-needed plastics in the de- GrabGreen tergents. has your cov- GrabGreen products include laun- ered. dry detergent, bleach alternative, Patricia Spen- dishwashing detergent, fabric fresh- cer developed ner sprays, and more, and are made the line of eco- with naturally derived ingredients, friendly home are free of phosphates and chlorine, cleaning prod- and are 100 percent cruelty free, ucts when her with no animal testing involved. So two daughters you can clean you house with a Rockabye baby were younger clean conscious. Cramped for space in your apart- This hi-tech product doesn’t after she was For info on GrabGreen, visit www. ment but still want a baby swing? take up as much room as your typi- shocked to learn grabgreenhome.com. The mamaRoo has you covered. cal baby swing, primarily because it isn’t really a baby swing — it sways from side to side, or up and down, mimicking the movements Jimi lives on in new book of parents — perfect for comfort- A new generation can meet leg- ing and calming your baby when endary guitarist Jimi Hendrix in a you don’t have your hands free. bold new picture book for kids. The mamaRoo has five motions, In “Jimi: Sounds Like a Rainbow: ranging from “Car Ride” (a figure A Story of the Young Jimi Hendrix,” eight) to “Ocean Wave” (around in author Gary Golio and illustrator Ja- a big circle). It also comes with a vaka Steptoe show how a quiet boy toy mobile with plush toy balls dec- from Seattle with a love of sound and orated in the style of classi- color became one of the greatest gui- cal artists (Van Gogh, Monet tar players of all time. and Seurat), built-in nature Golio brings the young Hendrix to sounds, or a hookup for mp3 life, revealing how passion, friend- players so you can choose ship, and a father’s love helped Hen- your own music. drix make a connection with music The mamRoo is suitable that would one day set the world groundbreaking musician. from birth to 25 pounds. on fire. Steptoe’ s full-color original “Jimi: Sounds Like a Rainbow: A $199, For more info, visit art uses mixed media on recycled Story of the Young Jimi Hendrix” is suit- www.4momsonline.com/ma- plywood to create arresting visuals able for ages 6-9. For info, visit www. maroo. perfectly suited to this story of a garygolio.com.

60 BROOKLYN Family • December 2010 FREE NEW YORK Winter 2010 FREE NEW YORK SPECIAL C SPECIAL CHILD www.familyresourceny.com HILD www.webfamilyny.com Over 50 8 Resources ways to heal S.M.A.R.T. through IEP Goals music Advocating for your child Yoga works Service Making school as therapy dogs for sense-ational children

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TheThe newnew issueissue of of NewNew YorkYork Special ChildChild Is IsNow Coming Available! Soon!

Please call 718-260-8336 or email us to get more info, find out where you can pick up a copy, have a copy mailed to you, or get distribution. To advertise call 718-260-4554 [email protected] Happy Holidays at

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At Kings Plaza we VALUE your time! THANKSGIVING Use this handy calendar to plan 6:00 AM 8:00 AM your shopping at over 150 great stores! CLOSED to to 10:00 PM 10:00 PM

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