Early Childhood June 2018 Bronx/riverdale FREE Family Choices www.NYParenting.com

Planning for Preschool How healthy are toddler drinks?

Junot Diaz’s new book for kids

Repeating Kindergarten

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Features 8 Toddler drinks Reading between the lines By Shnieka L. Johnson 10 Planning for preschool By Laura Varoscak- DeInnocentiis 15 In the ‘Zone’ Initiative helps Bronx kids to ditch sugary drinks By Brittany D. Corea 16 A mother’s intuition Autistic son improves with mom’s own therapeutic approach By Allison Plitt 18 Untold stories Book shines light on challenges of raising special-needs kids By Tammy Scileppi 22 ‘Island’ dream Celebrated novelist Junot Diaz debuts first children’s book By Shnieka L. Johnson 30 30 Writing the book on repeating a grade By Rebecca Eisenberg columns 6 Short Stuff calendar 24 June Events 24 special sections 12 Early Childhood Choices 20 Special Needs Providers 22

June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 3 letter from the PublIsher

this issue, and some of our communities’ best programs are represented. This is a great time of year to be considering it for Preschools for all the fall or even the summer, and I hope everyone will take a look at the options we hen I went back to her name was, and when I present here. Many of the programs are work part time and told her she said “Lilianna, offering specialized immersion in things W needed childcare, come to Tessie.” My daugh- like other languages, music and art, early my daughter was a year and ter put her arms out and she STEAM introduction, and of course Mon- a half. Until then her father more or less sat on Tessie’s tessori. and I had been juggling her lap for the remainder of the We now know the importance of good care and she hadn’t even had year. I felt so relieved and im- educational early childcare, and it’s rare a baby-sitter. Besides some mediately made the decision to find a family that is not signed up for time spent with extended to sign her up there for those something. With the city’s public system family, she had always been beginning three half-days. offering free Pre K FOR ALL, our city’s with one or both of us. This The first day I left her there children will all now be benefitting from new job I had, however, was going to ne- I found myself overwhelmed with emotion programs that will stimulate their learning cessitate finding an outside alternative, and stood outside at the bus stop holding process and fine tune their social abilities. and it it turned out I got lucky. We needed back tears. Lili was fine. I was a wreck. It’s very exciting! to have odd hours in the middle of the day Both of us adjusted, and the problem of three days a week, and as my luck would childcare was solved for us. Those years Thanks for reading! have it, I found the perfect place. Run by at her preschool were fantastic. She devel- two local women who had masters in early oped social skills, had sweet little friends childhood education from Bank Street, from multi-cultural backgrounds, and was they offered me the perfect plan. introduced to new learning materials that, I had brought Lili with me and she combined with the exposure I was giving seemed to like it there, although she clung her at home, set her off nicely on her edu- Susan Weiss-Voskidis, very tightly to me. One of the women who cation path. Publisher/Excutive Editor worked with the little ones asked me what We have a special preschool focus in [email protected]

Community News Group Contact Information ceo: Les Goodstein advertising: Web or Print address President & Publisher: (718) 260-4554 New York Parenting Media/CNG Jennifer Goodstein [email protected] 1 Metrotech Center North 10th Floor circulation Brooklyn, NY 11201 New York Parenting (718) 260-8336 [email protected] Publisher / executive editor: Susan Weiss editorial www.NYParenting.com Publisher / business Manager: (718) 260-4554 Clifford Luster [email protected] oPerations associate: calendar NEW YORK Tina Felicetti (718) 260-2523 sales rePs: Erin Brof, Mary Cassidy, Parenting Shelli Goldberg-Peck, Jay Pelc art director: Leah Mitch The acceptance of advertising by New York Join the conversation on Facebook. Parenting does not constitute an endorse- New York Parenting has been recognized for Web designer: Sylvan Migdal ment of the products, services or informa- editorial and design excellence by PMA. tion being advertised. We do not knowingly graPhic designers: Arthur Arutyunov, present any products or services that are New York Parenting is published monthly by Gardy Charles, Earl Ferrer, John Napoli, fraudu lent or misleading in nature. New York Parenting Media/CNG. Subscrip- tion rate is $35 annually. Reproduction of Mark Ramos Editorial inquiries, calendar information, New York Parenting Media in whole or advertising rates and schedules and subscrip- part without written permission from the tion requests may be addressed to New York th publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Parenting, One Metro tech Center North, 10 Copyright©2018 Managing editor: Vince DiMiceli Floor, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. assistant editor: Courtney Donahue New York Parenting can also be reached by coPy editor: Lisa J. Curtis calling (718) 260-4554, emailing Family@ NYParenting.com or by visiting our website, calendar editor: Joanna Del Buono NYParenting.com.

4 bronx/riverdale Family • June 2018 The Academy of Mount St. Ursula Four Years To Last A Lifetime THE FUTURE IS NOW CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2018!

Adelphi University Fashion Institute of Technology New England College Albright College Fiorello H. LaGuardia Community College of the CUNY New York Institute of Technology Alfred University Fordham University New York University American International College Georgia State University Newbury College Barry University Gordon College Norfolk State University Baruch College of the CUNY Hampton University Northwestern University Bennett College Haverford College Nova Southeastern University Berkeley College NYC Midtown Location Hofstra University Pace University, New York City Binghamton University Howard University Pace University, Westchester Campus Borough of Manhattan Community College Hunter College of the CUNY Paul Smith’s College of the CUNY Iona College Pennsylvania State University Boston University John Jay College of Criminal Justice of the CUNY Queens College of the CUNY Bronx Community College of the CUNY Johnson & Wales University (North Miami) Queensborough Community College of the CUNY Brooklyn College of the CUNY Johnson & Wales University (Providence) Quinnipiac University Brown University Keuka College Roberts Wesleyan College Bryant University Kingsborough Community College of the CUNY Rochester Institute of Technology Canisius College La Salle University Russell Sage College Centenary University Le Moyne College Rutgers University City College of New York Lehman College of the CUNY Sacred Heart University Clark Atlanta University Lincoln University Saint Michael’s College Clarkson University Long Island University, Brooklyn Saint Peter’s University College of Mount Saint Vincent Long Island University, Post Siena College College of New Rochelle Loyola University Maryland Smith College College of Saint Elizabeth Lynn University Spelman College Columbia University Manhattan College St. Bonaventure University Concordia College - New York Manhattanville College St. Francis College CUNY New York City College of Technology Marymount University St. John’s University Daemen College Medgar Evers College of the CUNY St. Joseph’s College Delaware State University Mercy College St. Lawrence University DePauw University Merrimack College St. Thomas Aquinas College Dillard University Molloy College State University of New York at Albany Dominican College Monroe College State University of New York at New Paltz Drexel University Morgan State University Stony Brook University Elmira College Mount Saint Mary College SUNY Alfred State College Emory University Nazareth College SUNY Broome Community College SUNY College at Brockport The College of Saint Rose SUNY Buffalo State College SUNY College at Cortland The College of Westchester University of Massachusetts, Amherst SUNY College at Geneseo The Culinary Institute of America University of New Haven SUNY College at Oneonta The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College University of Southern California SUNY College at Potsdam The University of Scranton Utica College SUNY College of Technology at Canton Tompkins Cortland Community College Wagner College SUNY Delhi University at Buffalo The State University of New York Washington College SUNY Fredonia University of Bridgeport Wells College SUNY Morrisville State College University of Central Florida Western Connecticut State University SUNY Oswego University of Connecticut Wheaton College SUNY Plattsburgh University of Hartford Wilkes University Susquehanna University York College of Pennsylvania Syracuse University York College of the CUNY The Catholic University Accepted By Over 140 School of America THE 2018 CLASS HAS RECEIVED OVER $19 MILLION DOLLARS IN SCHOLARSHIPS

HELP YOUR CHILD PREPARE FOR HER FUTURE: WWW.AMSU.ORG/ADMISSIONS

June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 5 Short Stuff New app seeks to reduce infant mortality Peter LaMont’s second child was born which provides additional information in in May, but the last time he put an infant to a baby’s voice. A Spanish-language, text- bed was 16 years ago. So, the father turned only mode is also available. to a new app to catch up on safe sleep rec- “While handouts with crucial safe sleep ommendations for babies. guidelines can get lost or become out- The SIDS Info app, which provides infor- dated, the app places educational informa- mation on sudden infant death syndrome, tion literally at people’s fingertips — right was launched this month by the SIDS Cen- on their phones,” said Ostfeld. “Our goal ter of New Jersey. is to provide hospital nurses who educate “When my teenage daughter was a baby, new families at discharge with an efficient she slept with blankets and crib bumpers,” and standardized tool that parents can LaMont said. “Today, the rule is that noth- download to their phone for continued ing is placed in the crib. Even though I reference. It also allows practitioners who already have a child, things have changed Nick Romanenko / Rutgers University interact with parents after discharge to a lot, and I want to be an informed parent. Barbara Ostfeld and Thomas Hegyi of the SIDS reinforce this information.” This app is convenient and allows me to Center of New Jersey. SIDS Info is available on iPhone and access the most up-to-date guidelines.” Android and was funded by the center The free app, which was developed by death, a grouping consisting of sudden through a grant from the New Jersey De- Barbara Ostfeld and Thomas Hegyi, the infant death syndrome, accidental suffoca- partment of Health. The app is being pro- center’s program and medical director, tion or strangulation in bed, or unknown moted to professionals who interact with respectively, includes the American Acad- causes. families at organizations such as hospitals, emy of Pediatrics’ safe sleep guidelines for Although there are a few other apps the Maternal and Child Health Consortia, infants from birth to 12 months. The app that include safe infant sleep information, the Division of Child Protection and Per- also includes links to educational web- SIDS Info provides the most comprehen- manency, and child care programs. The sites, a question-and-answer on safe infant sive educational material, Ostfeld said. app also serves as a continuing education sleep and resources — such as contact As parents scroll through the app, they tool for healthcare providers, who can information for smoking cessation and the see animations that feature a maternal download courses on safe sleep for free. Consumer Product Safety Commission. voice combined with text, which educates Parents are encouraged to share the According to the U.S. Centers for Dis- the user on topics such as selecting a safe app with those caring for their infants ease Control and Prevention, about 3,500 crib, how to dress an infant for sleep, and — such as grandparents, siblings, and infants under the age of 1 die in the United what not to place in a crib. Parents then babysitters — which is crucial for infant States due to a sudden unexpected infant can click on the “Baby Talk” component, safety, Ostfeld said.

When do they get a credit card? Using a credit card requires a great the card’s annual percentage rate and how deal of responsibility. It’s important to credit cards typically charge higher rates have a conversation with your child to than other loans. Explain how it’s important determine if he or she is ready for a credit to avoid charging more to the credit card card. Keep in mind that your child’s age than they can afford to pay off each month. isn’t as important a factor as her matu- Setting ground rules: It’s wise to cre- rity level and willingness to learn. ate some ground rules for your child’s Here are three key reasons why you new spending power. Having him pay might want to get a credit card for your the bill may encourage more responsibil- son or daughter: ity than if you were to foot the bill each Establish a credit history: If your month. If you aren’t going to have your child is heading to college in the next few child pay off her credit card, agree on years, establishing a credit history later when it’s appropriate to use the card and Connect with can help him immensely. For example, when it isn’t. If you find that she’s breach- private student loan companies typically ing these boundaries, follow up and re- require a credit check, and having some mind her of your agreement. local moms credit history can help. Learn more about which issuers allow Join our Facebook sisterhood to find Teach kids about smart credit card you to get a credit card for a child under moms in your neighborhood for advice, use: Teach your children about responsible 18 at https://www.experian.com/blogs/ community, and commiseration at https:// credit card use and they’ll be less likely to ask-experian/when-should-my-child-get- www.facebook.com/groups/nypmoms make mistakes. Talk to your child about a-credit-card.

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JohnSon the labeling of toddler drinks and proposed Many are calling for transparent and regulations to ensure the appropriate label- truthful labeling that is less confusing for t is an exciting time when your baby ing of products. Health experts and pe- the consumer. This will better enable par- begins to develop into a toddler. Crawl- diatricians (both in the United States and ents and caregivers of toddlers to make I ing to cruising and then walking to internationally) do not recommend the a well-informed decision about the best running — you now have a busy little products. According to the comprehensive product for their children. person on your hands! Your toddler is study, most toddler drinks are composed “All product labels made claims related becoming more independent, and in some of powdered milk, corn syrup or sweet- to nutrition and health, and many made instances, more finicky. Welcome to the eners, and vegetable oil. These products claims about expert recommendations fussy eating stage! For the majority of par- contain more sodium and less protein than that may lead caregivers to believe these ents, cow’s milk is a toddler’s main drink. cow’s milk, but labeling implies that they products are necessary and healthy. In There are great benefits to drinking milk, are beneficial for children’s nutrition and fact, they are not recommended by health as it is a source of nutrients, like calcium growth. As advertising for these products experts, as there is no evidence that they and vitamins A and D. However, it is not increases, so do the concerns regarding are nutritionally superior to healthy food a great source for iron, as it contains only their misleading claims. and whole milk for toddlers,” said Pomer- trace amounts, and if your toddler won’t anz. eat iron-rich foods, you find yourself in a According to the study’s authors, tod- conundrum. dler drinks are unnecessary and may un- Many parents will purchase toddler dermine a nutritious diet, although they drinks to boost intake of iron. But is this are marketed otherwise. the best alternative for a child’s diet that “It is stressed that labels should may be lacking in iron-rich foods? Unfortu- be clear, transparent, and accu- nately, misleading labels on products mar- rate. The [U.S. Food and Drug Ad- keted as “toddler drinks” may confuse ministration] and manufacturers parents on whether these products should work together to end the are necessary or doing more harm inappropriate labeling of tod- than good. Often marketed for young dler drinks and ensure caregiv- children, ages 9 months to 3 years ers have reliable information to old, the product category of toddler nutritiously feed their children,” drinks includes transition formulas said Pomeranz. The researchers and toddler milks. encourage the Food and Drug Studies at New York University’s Administration to provide more College of Global Public Health and guidance and recommend manu- the Rudd Center for Food Policy and facturers change their labeling prac- Obesity at the University of Connecti- tices and support informed consumer cut have raised red flags about tod- decision-making. dler drinks. Whether you choose to supplement “Our study builds on previ- with toddler drinks or solely stick with ous research demonstrating cow’s milk, remember that toddlers need that manufacturers’ mar- healthy fats, vitamin D, and calcium, as keting practices may well as iron-rich foods in their diet. This undermine the diets aids healthy growth, learning, and devel- of very young chil- opment. A picky-eating toddler can be dren,” said Jennifer given a multivitamin or other calcium- L. Pomeranz, assis- fortified foods, like dairy products, juices, tant professor of pub- breads, and cereals. Consultation with a lic health policy and pediatrician is encouraged prior to using management at NYU’s any new product, which will safeguard College of Global Public your child’s health and maximize their Health, and the study’s lead intake of truly nutritious foods. author. Shnieka Johnson is an education consul- The study, published in tant. She is based in Manhattan where she the journal “Preventive resides with her husband and son. Contact Medicine,” examined pol- her via her website: www.shniekajohnson. icies and regulations on com.

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June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 9 Planning for preschool

By Laura Varoscak- with an open mind and a clear plan will three very important considerations when DeInnocentIIs also help eliminate unnecessary stress and deciding where to send your child. Some make the search more enjoyable. Here are programs offer early drop-off and late hoosing a preschool that fits the some tips to keep in mind: pick-up options for parents who work long needs of your family may seem days. Others are not flexible with their C daunting. There are many pro- Plan ahead hours. You may find a preschool with a grams out there, each offering their own Start by making a list of local licensed stellar reputation, but if the tuition costs unique style and perspective, all claim- preschool programs. Most New York City more than you make each month and ing to be “the best.” Do not be swayed by preschools begin their application pro- you and your little one need to travel two schools that entice parents with unprec- cess several months to a year before your hours by bus, train, and ferry to get there, edented academic achievement, state-of- child will start school. Call programs that forget it! the-art equipment, or the latest educational you might be interested in to find out trend. Above all, preschoolers need a safe their application deadlines and minimum Research and comfortable place in which to learn, age requirements. This will shorten your After narrowing down programs that while also building socialization skills with list right off the bat. are affordable, conveniently located, and peers. Knowing your child, and yourself, is accepting applications in your child’s age the key to successfully navigating your way Know the basics group, start asking questions. Call the di- through the process. Beginning the journey Location, cost, and operating hours are rector and request some information about

Popular early childhood educational approaches Here are some methods of teaching High Scope and practical life work. you may want to look for: Designed for children who need more individualized attention, the High Scope Reggio Emilia Bank Street program uses a cognitive approach to The Reggio Emilia approach is a col- Less structured than some other pro- learning and values the relationship be- laborative effort, involving teachers, stu- grams, the Bank Street Development tween teachers and children. It stresses dents, parents, and community mem- Interaction approach lets children make the idea that children need hands-on ex- bers. It emphasizes children’s symbolic their own choices in the classroom, periences with people, materials, ideas relationships. while interacting with a wide variety of and events in order to thrive. The curric- Teachers develop a project-based materials, ideas, and people. This helps ulum is built around five content areas: curricula based on students’ interests, a child discover things in her own way, language, literacy and communication, and support learning through observa- at her own pace. social and emotional growth, physical tion, dialogue, and documentation of The curriculum is based on the idea development, health and well-being, and children’s work. Learning is an ongoing that children make sense of the world by arts and sciences. process as children build relationships studying it. Teachers encourage ques- with others while making connections tioning and exploration as children start Montessori between ideas and their environment. to make connections between their ideas The Montessori method encourages and the surrounding environment. child independence and self-direction. Waldorf The teacher acts as an observer, pre- The Waldorf approach embraces the Creative Curriculum paring the classroom to best suit the in- whole child — body, mind, and soul. The Creative Curriculum balances dividual student’s needs. Children value Early childhood educators model ap- both teacher-directed and child-initiated diversity and practice respect for self, propriate behavior, and children are learning, with an emphasis on responding others, and the world around them. encouraged to imitate what they see. to children’s learning styles and building Self-esteem is nurtured as children Teachers also support physical, emo- on their strengths and interests. Play is master skills and move on to the next tional, intellectual, and artistic growth considered children’s “work,” which pre- developmental level in their work. In by designing curriculum based on chil- pares them for future academic learning. addition to language arts, mathematics, dren’s stages of development and offer- Teachers support thinking and experi- science, and cultural studies, the Mon- ing many opportunities for creative and menting as children explore the world. tessori Method emphasizes sensorial imaginative play.

10 bronx/riverdale Family • June 2018 for your family. From the moment you walk in the door, keep your eyes and ears open. Do you feel welcome? Safety is critical in a preschool setting. Look to see if the chil- dren are well supervised. Are they happy and engaged? How are the relationships between teachers and students? Are the children playing together, practicing tak- ing turns, or are they fighting? How does the teacher deal with conflict resolution? Is there an outdoor play space? Take notes during your observation pe- riod to help you remember the details when you’re comparing programs later on. During the question-and-answer session, gather as much information as possible — and do not leave with unanswered ques- tions. If the tour is for parents only, be sure to schedule a time for your child to visit so you can observe her in the environment.

Decide Each school will most likely highlight its philosophy. Do not let names like Montes- sori, Reggio Emilia and Waldorf confuse or overwhelm you. There are many methods of teaching, and all you need to figure out is which one would best suit your child’s personality and learning style. As your child’s first teacher, you are an expert at this.

Apply Depending on where you apply, sub- mitting an application does not mean your child will automatically be accepted. There are often waiting lists based on space availability or uneven gender or age ratios in the class. In this case, apply to a few of your top choice programs and wait patiently. If you strongly prefer one school, you may include a thank you let- ter, which also expresses your interest in the program.

Relax As hard as it might be to wait for a deci- sion, admissions directors do not like to be harassed by anxious parents. So take the program: Is it accredited by the Na- one that is more teacher-directed? Does a it easy and congratulate yourself on a job tional Association for the Education of large, active classroom seem more condu- well done. If your child was accepted into Young Children? What is the educational cive to learning than a smaller, more nur- a program and you have second thoughts, philosophy? How many children are in each turing environment? Do you have specific ask yourself why. Are you feeling guilty class? Are the teachers trained and certi- needs regarding toileting, diet, or napping about sending your baby to preschool fied? Is there frequent teacher turnover? for your child? Make a list and write down (totally normal) or does something not sit Talk to other parents about their experi- questions to ask while on the tour. Re- right with you? If the latter is true, trust ences. Hang around outside the school at member, it will be your school community, your intuition. In the end, there are many dismissal and introduce yourself to others. too. If parental involvement and a strong wonderful preschool programs that will Observe the children: Do they look like they family-school relationship are important provide your child with a safe, fun and en- enjoyed their time at school? Listen with to you (and they should be), inquire about gaging learning environment. an open mind. If you like what you see and opportunities for parents as well. All pre- Laura Varoscak-DeInnocentiis is a teacher hear, schedule a tour of the school. schools should have an open door policy. and freelance writer. Her articles appear regu- larly in these Family Magazines and have won Prepare for the tour Tour editorial awards from The Parenting Media As- Think about your child. Would she ben- Visiting a school is one of the best indi- sociation. She lives in Bay Ridge and has two efit from a child-centered program, or cators of whether the program is a good fit sons, Henry and Charlie.

June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 11 St. Theresa School Early Childhood Choices Gives Your Child A Step Ahead With A Solid Academic Foundation, Catholic Values and A Warm, Caring Learning Environment Kidville Riverdale KVU while encouraging each child’s Riverdale individual uniqueness. Active 718-708-8081 parental involvement in their www.kidville.com/riverdale child’s education is encouraged. A social preschool alternative pro- All lead teachers have received for- gram for 2 & 3 year olds offering mal training in childhood and early a positive first school experience. childhood education. Auxiliary Key highlights that the program staff has received continuous offers include, an emergent cur- training in developmentally appro- riculum that promotes learning priate practices for the varied age through play; Teachers serve as group we serve. It is hoped that Experience the facilities and learn about the activities guides for parents and children upon graduation, each child will enjoyed by all our children. during a gradual separation pro- leave the school as a happy, self- cess tailored to each family; A 1 confident individual with a curious Offering PreK-3 & PKA 4 programs | Kindergarten - 8th Grade for Girls & Boys to 4 teacher-child ratio ensures mind while taking great pleasure • Before and After-School Programs • Italian language studies individualized attention and an in learning as well as accepting of • Breakfast Program • Boy and Girl Scout troops atmosphere for building trust- him/herself and others • Lunch Program • Updated Computer Lab ing relationships, and prepares Renaissance Village • Children’s Choir • Smartboards in every classroom children for the transition to KVU • Accelerated Mathematics Program • Physical Education — Grad, our 4 day per week, 3 Montessori • Basketball and Cheerleading huge gym hour per day program for 3 & 4 Washington Heights 212-928-7855 • Active & Devoted Home/School • On-staff School Nurse year olds. Now Enrolling for the www.renvillage.com Association • Title I services 2018/19 School Year and select Our mission is to create and CONTACT US fOr MOrE INfOrMATION Summer 2018 spots are avail- able. Children ages 2 & 3 years in sustain a community of happy, St. Theresa Elementary School September are eligible to join the healthy families by providing Fall 2018 semester. resources that support parents in 2872 St. Theresa Ave., Bronx, New York 10461 their role as the child’s primary Telephone 718-792-3688 Little People’s Pre- teacher and by preparing beauti- visit our website at sttheresaschoolbronx.org School ful, orderly environments that enable the child to learn through Father Thomas Derivan, PASTOr | Mrs. Josephine Fanelli, PrINCIPAL Morris Heights 718-731-7575 self-discovery. The goals of www.littlepeoplepreschool@ Montessori education are to fos- live.com ter independence, respect for self We are a private pre-school oper- and others, and the natural love ating for 27 years in the same for learning that all children inher- Over 40 Years O f Child Care e xperienC e location! Our outstanding reputa- ently possess. We offer classes for children 16-24 months and TONA DAY tion has given us the opportunity RO CA to graduate multiple students preschool classrooms for toddlers C R from the same family year after (2-3 yrs) and primary (3-6 yrs) T E aged children. Our newest initia- N C year. Many of our students have O E gone on to great schools and tive is Crucial Connections, a class N for mothers and their infants ages M OUR C T careers and kept in touch with E G HI N AND COM L E 3-12 months. I S M D us about their progress. To quote R IE 21ST R D L E CE U R T L I TH N N I T E a parent, “Little People’s is one M U I R T N Riverdale Presbyterian R U A O Y F F Y , of the best investments you can B Church Nursery School make for your child’s early devel- Riverdale opment.” Parents are confident Currently registering PreSchool Children 718-548-8260 that they can go to work with www.rpcnurseryschool.com peace of mind, knowing their (ages 2-4) and children born in 2014 for Since 1954, we have offered a child is safe, happy and learning non-sectarian, hands-on, multi- every day. Now accepting HRA/ Pre-K for All sensory early childhood program ACS Vouchers five Bronx locations to the families of Riverdale and Tremont Crotona Early Learn Center, inc Rainbow Rhymes its surrounding communities. 1600 Crotona Park East • 718.378.5600 Learning Center, Inc. Our approach stimulates creativ- ity, empathy, self-awareness, Bronx River Throggs Neck RRLC empowerment and curiosity, Early Learn Center Early Learn Center 718-882-2388 and encourages a love of learn- 1555 East 174th Street • 718.842.6582 www.rainbowrhymes.com 461 Swinton Avenue • 718.822.0172 ing in each child. Fondly known East Bronx Providing childcare services to as the “Red Door School”, we Early Learn Center CACFP children and families of the Bronx are located inside the historic 1113 Colgate Avenue • 718.617.2900 1113 Colgate Avenue • 718.861.7777 for since 1996. A center-based day Riverdale Presbyterian Church, a care facility with quality, afford- national landmark - and a warm, able services for toddlers through charming, cozy environment in school age. A nurturing, educa- which children feel nurtured and tional environment, conducive to safe, and families and caregivers the development of each child’s feel welcomed. cognitive, social, emotional, cre- ative skills. The programs facilitate St. Theresa School high academic achievement, stim- Middletown / Pelham Bay ulate self-worth, foster leadership, 718-792-3688 Now HiRiNg TEACHERs and promote cultural awareness Continued on page 14

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Special Advertising Section June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 13 Kidville University (KVU) Early Childhood Choices is a social preschool alternative program Continued from page 12 ting while supporting and involv- offering a positive www.sttheresaschoolbronx.org ing the family. If you are working fi rst school experience. The children who pass through or going to school and looking our doors are eager to learn and for a reliable agency to take care Now Enrolling for the are challenged by a stimulating of your child, our program is cur- academic, social and athletic cur- rently registering children as young 2018/19 School Year riculum infused with Catholic as 2 for our Toddler program, chil- dren aged 3-4 for our Preschool Children ages 2 & 3 years values. The program reflects an program, and children born in the in September are eligible to integrated learning experience for Pre-Kindergarten three year olds, year 2014 for our Pre-K for All join the Fall 2018 semester. Universal Pre-Kindergarten four program. We are also hiring quali- year olds, kindergarteners and fied teachers; please contact us for 555 West 235th Street students in grades one through more information. Bronx, NY 10463 eighth grade. Teachers, adminis- 718-708-8081 trators, aides and other profes- United Edu-care www.kidville.com/riverdale sionals who also pass through our Preschool doors impart their knowledge and Willamsbridge extensive experience with enthu- 718-882-4706 siasm and a truly caring respect educarebx.org/ for the children in their charge. Children enrolled at our school Our school provides a before and discover that learning is fun. after school programs, breakfast Through creative activities and and lunch programs, children group interaction, recognizable choir, art, music, Italian language growth takes place. Our objective Trabajamos CommuniTy Head sTarT studies, computer classes, physi- is to help your child develop self- A Child's Work is Play! cal education and an accelerated esteem, an eagerness for learn- mathematics program. We also ing, social and spiritual growth, offer a wide variety of after school and the ability to think and work activities. St. Theresa’s offers chil- independently. We place emphasis dren a place to grow and blossom on the individual child, and this, with discipline and guidance. of course, involves you as parents because home and Preschool Tremont Crotona Day must cooperate for your child’s Care development. Our Mission is to Bronx – 4 locations provide children with quality edu- 718-378-5600 cation in a safe, Christian loving [email protected] environment while enriching their We are an ACS contracted pre- lives through creative play, work- school. We have 4 convenient books, exploration and hands-on locations throughout the Bronx. learning activities. Owned and EduCAtion. nutrition. MEntAl HEAltH. Our goal as an agency is to pro- operated by United Church of vide a safe, nurturing, motivating, Jesus Christ (Apostolic) Inc. Plans - Bilingual and supportive learning environ- are being made to acquire addi- - available 5 days a week from 8am - 6pm all year ‘round ment that meets the individual tional space for the expansion of - Breakfast, lunch and snack provided needs of each child in a group set- the program. Inspired early childcare with a holistic approach to working with children and their families. trabajamos Community Fair at our Bathgate ave. location Friday, June 8th 11:00am - 3:00pm Music • Entertainment • Fashion Show • Face Painting and much more... A Beautiful Environment Serving the community for over 52 years Site 1: Site 2: Site 3: Where Children Learn Through 940 eaSt 156th St., 1997 Bathgate ave., 2167 UNiverSitY ave., Bronx NY 10455 Bronx, NY 10457 Bronx NY 10468 Self-Discovery 718-893-1512 917-259-7081 917-962-9720 trabajamoscommunityheadstart.com Independence • Respect for self and others • Love of learning Contact us for more info about our programs for Toddlers (2-3 yrs) & Primary (3-6 yrs) and our To place an ad in our line Mommy and Me classes. Renaissance Village Montessori 330 Cabrini Blvd. NY, NY 10033 of family publications, 212-928-7855 [email protected] please call 718.260.4554 www.renvillage.com

14 bronx/riverdale Family • June 2018 Special Advertising Section In the ‘Zone’ Initiative helps Bronx kids to ditch sugary drinks

By Brittany D. Corea

t the start of spring, the eager faces of the Bronx’s future walked A down their school halls ready to not only be part of the borough’s Healthy Beverage Zone anniversary video, but also to take on a new task: paving the way for a healthier community. For the students at MS 327, the Comprehensive Model School Project, it was the first time they had tried fruit-infused water. The students curiously took a sip — then smiled. “I was not expecting that. Can I take some home to let my mom try?” asked a student. Representatives of the Bronx Healthy Beverage Zone, a committee motivating Bronxites to ditch sugary beverages, gifted each student a bottle of fruit-infused water, and in return, the students unknowingly rewarded the Zone organizers with the best anniversary present: the young am- bassadors were going home to spread the word to their families about delicious, low- The Healthy Beverage Zone initiative is encouraging Bronx students to choose healthy beverage calorie alternatives to sugary drinks. choices over sugary drinks. “Healthy beverages are an important factor to reversing the effects of weight gain, diet-related diseases (such as diabe- Hygiene’s Bronx Neighborhood Health Ac- moting the initiative and ensuring Bronx- tes and heart disease), and poor dental tion Center. ites understand how sugar-filled bever- health,” explains the Bronx’s Healthy Bev- After bringing national attention to the ages affect the body. erage Zone website, thebronxhbz.org. Bronx and receiving a grant of $10,000 PS 811, a public school partner of the In April, the Bronx Healthy Beverage from Aetna Foundation’s Healthy Commu- initiative, became the youngest travel am- Zone proudly celebrated its first anniver- nity 50 challenge, the Healthy Beverage bassadors by sharing their knowledge of sary. The Zone’s mission is to enlist and Zone is now in the running to receive a the adverse affects of sugary beverages assist Bronx organizations, schools and prize of up to $500,000 that will support with their families. The students have businesses in creating an environment their mission to change the borough’s grim committed to abstaining from consuming where the community can learn about health statistics. “Since 2009, the Robert sweetened beverages, proving that the and choose healthier beverage options by Wood Johnson Foundation County Health initiative is one that can be adopted by ditching sugary drinks. Today, the Healthy Rankings Report has ranked the Bronx as people of all ages. Beverage Zone has secured pledges from number 62 out of New York State’s 62 coun- “Thank you for working with us and for almost 50 worksites across the borough to ties in terms of health outcomes,” claims working with the Bronx,” Diaz Jr. told the not only rethink their drink, but actively the Zone’s website. Healthy Beverage Zone. “While we still select drinks that encourage a healthier “I supported this initiative since it began have a long way to go, this anniversary is tomorrow. because the Bronx Healthy Beverage Zone a milestone in that the Bronx is headed in “Setting a positive example for our works to make our community healthier,” the right way.” community is the first step in cultivat- said New York City Council Member Fer- For the Zone, celebrating its first an- ing change. It’s a privilege to help lead a nando Cabrera. “I am going to continue to niverary is just the beginning. The ini- borough-wide movement of small changes support the Bronx Healthy Beverage Zone, tiative plans to keep working towards a that will help improve the health of our and we are going to win!” healthier future for the Bronx. There is community,” said Dr. Vanessa Salcedo The Healthy Beverage Zone’s support no statistic too scary, or drink too sugary, of Union Community Health Center, one expanded this year with the help of more that the Healthy Beverage Zone won’t cam- of the Healthy Beverage Zone’s found- than 40 partners. Bronx elected officials paign to change. ing organizations which works in partner- Borough President Rubin Diaz Jr., state To learn more about the Healthy Beverage ship with Bronx Health REACH, and the Sen. Gustavo Rivera, Assemblyman Victor Zone, visit its website at thebronxhbz.org. city’s Department of Health and Mental Pichardo, and Cabrera contributed by pro- — additional reporting by Lisa J. Curtis

June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 15 A mother’s intuition Autistic son improves with mom’s own therapeutic approach

By Allison Plitt In the most defining moment of the book, Ellenby decided to take This is the second half of a story her son into an auditorium to see a about Whitney Ellenby’s compelling au- show about Elmo. As she expected, tobiography, “Autism Uncensored: Pull- Zack threw a tantrum as soon as ing Back the Curtain” (Koehler Books), they entered the public indoor in which she describes her life with her space. While Ellenby spent more autistic son, Zack. than half an hour trying to calm him down, she was able to prevent hitney Ellenby learned her son from fleeing the scene. her son Zack had autism The moment Zack saw Elmo on W when he was 19 months stage, he calmed down and stopped old. At the recommendation of a struggling. His eyes were riveted to pediatric neurology team at George- the stage in deep concentration until town University Hospital, she en- the end of the show. As Zack smiled rolled him in Applied Behavioral at his mother after the performance Analysis therapy. ended, Ellenby decided that her “ex- Applied Behavioral Analysis ther- periment” was a success. apy required her son to be in an Ellenby took Zack to other public isolated room with a therapist for events where she found he learned at least 40 hours a week review- more by experiential learning than ing “emotions, objects, people, or by sitting in an isolated room trying colors via flashcards and manipula- to imitate Applied Behavioral Analy- tive objects.” According to Ellenby, sis concepts. Choosing to take Zack the psychologist who developed the to a movie theater, she first informed therapy in the 1950s, Dr. O. Ivar the audience that her son was autis- Lovaas, predicted that if a child re- tic and would probably struggle with ceives less than 40 hours of instruc- her before the movie. With the pub- tion per week, he would fail. Zack lic’s approval, Ellenby tried to sub- showed progress during his first due Zack, who once again became six months of therapy, but his de- calm when the movie began. velopment plateaued after another Similar to his behavior at the six months, and both Ellenby and her son Venturing into the Elmo performance, Zack was fixated by fell into a state of disappointment and de- real world the movie on the screen and said nothing pression. Many families with autistic children until the show ended. Realizing that Zack As many autistic children use “persever- usually isolate themselves in their homes, was finally making a breakthrough, El- ative” behavior (such as repetitive hand because their children can impulsively fly lenby accompanied him on more outings flapping or staring at spinning objects) to into fits of rage over any perceived fears — including a visit to a water park, where calm themselves down, the Lovaas Model or obstacles. a gang of tough teens helped her son de- of Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy As Ellenby had decided to scale back on scend a scary water slide. tries to suppress these natural instincts the number of hours Zack was receiving Ellenby was surprised by the amount of — a method which Ellenby finds “authori- Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy, she support she received from the public when tative.” She claims that many pediatric chose a different approach with her son, she explained that her son was autistic neurologists also believe that by denying who threw temper tantrums every time and may behave in an unusual manner. a child his natural tendencies to cope with the family left the home. Zack wet himself on a subway, and as El- fear or anxiety, Applied Behavioral Analy- In one scenario, Ellenby’s family at- lenby explained her situation to the pas- sis takes away a child’s individuality and tempted to attend a birthday party, but sengers, they gave her their own tissues innate personality. the moment they got into an elevator, and wipes to help her clean her son. Although Zack could not verbalize his Zack began screaming, biting himself, and Ellenby gave birth to her daughter, anger to his family, he rebelled against the banging his head against the door to get Cassie, when Zack was 5. As Zack realized rigid structure of therapy in his own ways. out. After this incident, Ellenby figured out he was no longer the center of his mother’s Unable to sleep, Zack kept his parents up what triggered her son’s temper tantrums: attention, he began to misbehave. Crying all night with tantrums. When Ellenby or “His fear of the unknown, because he because he believed his mother favored the her husband went to soothe him, they could not decode the world outside of his baby over him, he was finally able to articu- found Zack had scratched off the paper immediate view in those indoor spaces.” late his feelings by saying, “Baby is Mommy on the walls of his bedroom and had de- Unlike other kids with autism, Zack was favorite. Baby is love of Mommy life.” stroyed all of his books and toys. not overly sensitive to noise and crowds. When Ellenby responded to Zack that

16 bronx/riverdale Family • June 2018 he was “the first love of her life,” she had a that affects his brain. His brain isn’t better realization: “We have never had a true con- or worse than yours, it’s just different.” versation, and never an exchange about Ellenby figured out what She also told the class that Zack learns anything as important as this. And I real- triggered her son’s temper from repetition, so he would be watching ize at this moment that there are still many his classmates’ behavior as an example of crucial truths about Zack that I have yet tantrums: “His fear of the what to do. to uncover. Does he feel love deeply, and unknown, because he could Ellenby’s story ends happily as Zack was does he feel it for me? … He is capable of “assaulted by peers, not with cruelty, but experiencing jealousy and loss as much as not decode the world outside exaggerated expressions of kindness and any other person, maybe even more?” instruction.” When his mother dropped After his initial resentment, Zack learned of his immediate view in him off at school, Zack told his mother to love and protect his sister. In one in- those indoor spaces.” “goodbye,” literally cutting the cord be- stance, Ellenby baked the children brownies tween them. and decided to hide them in the kitchen so When Zack stopped having temper tan- she could share them at a later time. When trums, he learned that he had overcome she later checked in on her kids, she discov- him in the neighborhood public elemen- his phobias. Reflecting on the experience of ered Zack had found the brownies and was tary school, where he would be fully main- helping her son, Ellenby recounts, “I’m not sharing them with 1-year-old Cassie. streamed with his peers in the first grade. just a better parent, I’m a better person be- While Zack would be with his classmates cause of what Zack has unearthed in me.” Zack learns to for the majority of the day, he would also Ellenby founded a charitable foundation conquer his fears be pulled out of class for special-needs more than 10 years ago called Autism Am- As Zack became less fearful interact- instruction. bassadors for people with autism and their ing in the real world, he had less frequent The therapist had told Ellenby never to families. To help these families leave the tantrums. Consequently, Ellenby decided disclose Zack’s condition, but she thought isolation of their homes, Ellenby established to abandon Applied Behavioral Analysis differently when preparing a presenta- monthly outings at various venues (such therapy. On a family trip to Disney World, tion for her son’s class about his autism. as movie theaters and water parks) where where Ellenby had to provide the hotel with “Concealment of Zack’s diagnosis suggests people can meet and not be shocked when medical documentation of her son’s autism, shame, and my purpose is to educate, not others “erupt into unconventional behav- Zack was a different boy — laughing in the obfuscate.” ior.” So far, Ellenby has recruited more than amusement park and finally pointing out to During the presentation to the class, El- 600 families to join her organization. his parents something funny that he saw. lenby explained to the children, “Zack has a Allison Plitt lives in Queens with her 12-year- When Zack turned 7, Ellenby enrolled disability called autism, and it’s a condition old daughter.

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June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 17 Untold stories Book shines light on challenges of raising special-needs kids

By Tammy Scileppi out housewives were really hoping for in Is this how you want to be? Seeing misery the event they were chosen to sit on the in every grain of sand?’ ” Rosaler writes. t’s about time someone wrote a humor- throne. They were modest requests by to- ous novel that shines a light on the day’s standards. Washers were a popular Drawing from real life I plight of parents who are coping with choice. Mimi was in denial when she found out unbearable stress and impossible chal- A mother of seven asked for a diaper her young son, Danny, had autism. lenges while raising their amazing, special- service for her triplets, and another, a hag- The author says getting support as her needs kids. gard-looking former waitress, only wished child was growing up was challenging as Washington Heights-based author Max- for a wheelchair and special exercise bike well. ine Rosaler’s just released, must-read book for her disabled son. But the smartest one “There were years when all I did from — “Queen for a Day: A Novel in Stories” of all told the host she could really use the moment I woke up to the moment I went (Delphinium Books) — does just that. some time away. After all, she had been to sleep, was work to get Benjy the help to In the book, Rosaler’s own experience a caretaker her entire life. In the end, the which the Individuals with Disabilities Act and her quest for answers as the mother of mom with the special-needs boy won. supposedly entitled him,” she recalled. an autistic son are told from the perspec- While all of these wives, mothers, and So, how do moms and dads raising spe- tive of her novel’s heroine, New York City caretakers had devoted their entire lives cial-needs kids learn how to accept things parent Mimi Slavitt, and her circle of funny to their families and sacrificed their own as they are? And if they can’t, what’s the but frustrated friends who are conflicted, happiness and dreams for domestic bliss, alternative? And, should parents put aside complex characters all trying to stay emo- there were perhaps some who dreamed their happiness for the sake of their chil- tionally afloat while raising children with of the day they could just walk away from dren? special needs. it all. The author, whose son Benjy is now 26, It “crackles with insight, energy, and After all, they never asked for this. opened up about her life and her family. New York City wit,” according to Eliza Never expected that their lives would be She says “Queen for a Day” is the most im- Factor, author of “Strange Beauty,” who so hard. It had all been thrust upon them portant story she has ever told. says Rosaler is “compassionate and won- and nobody asked. Tammy Scileppi: Why did you write derfully unsentimental in her portrayal There were times when Rosaler’s hero- this unique novel? of [Mimi and her friends’] fear and fury, ine, Mimi, felt that way. maxine Rosaler: I was a writer before I longing and isolation.” Factor says the And it was that vintage TV show from became a mother, but for a long time after author is “really good at capturing the a naïve, bygone era of societally enforced my son’s diagnosis with autism, all I wrote random bursts of connection so endemic domesticity, coupled with quiet discontent, were letters begging the Board of Educa- to New York City street life, and her take that had been the surprising inspiration tion to help Benjy, and various treatises on the Kafkaesque bureaucracy, otherwise for the author’s new novel. Rosaler’s au- and documents I created to support my ef- known as the Department of Education, is thentic stories examine imperfect women forts. When the air started to clear a little hilarious.” (not martyrs or saints) living mostly un- bit, I went back to writing fiction. Eventu- Factor says she “loved this book and fulfilled lives laced with overwhelming ally, I decided to map out a collection of recommend it highly, not only to parents misery, fear, and isolation; parents who short stories based on my experiences dealing with autism, but to anyone who yearn for fun and freedom but can only being the mother of a child with autism. enjoys gritty, funny, heartbreaking, and enjoy fleeting moments of triumph and TS: Tell NY Parenting readers about ultimately affirming stories of modern fam- normalcy. your son, his interests, and what he’s been ily life.” You can’t blame those women from up to. the ’50s, for they neither had the insight mR: Benjy is, to a remarkable degree, Surprising inspiration nor self-awareness to understand how to the same person he has always been. In one episode of the strange 1950s game change their lives for the better — had Incredibly cheerful and inquisitive and show “Queen for a Day,” host Jack Bailey they been able to. Therefore, they ac- a delight to be around. Of course, there asks the all-female audience: “Would you cepted the cards they were dealt with have always been the things we wanted like to be queen for a day?” what seems like a form of graciousness to “fix” about him — his impulsiveness, As the women applaud and cheer loudly, born of an unselfish nature. During that his lack of social awareness, his problems a super long, top-of-the-line Chrysler Impe- time, options for women were limited, and with organization — the list goes on. But rial appears onstage, waiting to whisk one “finding happiness” wasn’t considered a I’m happy to say that as much as Phil and lucky lady away for a day in movie land if priority until the Women’s Lib movement I have been trying so hard to fix Benjy, we she’s crowned queen. The winning contes- and the “me” generation expanded the list have never damaged his spirit. He remains tant enjoys additional perks, as well, like of acceptable personal desires and goals. indomitably himself. an entire wardrobe fit for a queen … and That’s when people — both women and Benjy is a junior at City College, where a deluxe vacuum cleaner! But the super- men — wanted more out of life. he is majoring in chemistry. Through New duper prizes are the ones that these worn- “But now I told myself: ‘Wake up, Mimi! York State’s Self-Direction program, I am

18 bronx/riverdale Family • June 2018 able to hire people to go to school Benjy in ways I do not. Phil, like with my son, to make sure he pays at- Benjy, has all sorts of interests tention and doesn’t call out in class. and he knows a lot about a lot He has a ton of interests and hob- of things. He also knows how to bies, including rocks and minerals, relax. So, he knows how to have musical instruments (how they are fun. I’m always so busy doing all constructed), botany, birds, biology, the behind-the-scenes work that chemistry, physics, orchestrating I don’t have time for fun. This is video music, playing piano, playing one of my biggest regrets. violin (which he has been studying TS: How have your son’s is- seriously for the past eight years), sues impacted your marriage? geology, geography, entomology, MR: I think our marriage has etymology, and so much more. been both positively and nega- I can’t say that Benjy has ever tively affected by having a child really had a friend — the clos- with a disability. As far as the posi- est he has ever come to having tive part is concerned, Phil and I friends are the mentors who work just naturally assumed different with him. But obviously, it’s not roles in Benjy’s care. As far as the the same. That’s always been on negative aspects are concerned, liv- my list: to find Benjy a friend who ing in a constant state of emergency shares one of his many interests. is very stressful, and this is bound As far as goals are concerned, to affect a marriage. Since I am by Benjy does not have a realistic far the biggest worrier, and the more understanding of what it means anxious of the two of us, Phil has to to have goals, nor what it takes live with a woman who is often in a to achieve one’s goals. This is state of high anxiety. one of many things that are on TS: What do you do as a couple to our list of things we need to de-stress? work on with him. MR: I wouldn’t say that Phil and I TS: Describe what raising ever consciously do anything to re- your special child has been lieve the stress. But we have always like? had fun together, and so just being MR: Benjy was a joyful baby, together is in and of itself a source of and a joyful child. He is still full of joy, comfort and fun to us both. We hardly although there are signs of anxiety that I sion. Her overwhelming worry about what ever go out, although this is something am beginning to recognize that I never re- will become of her son. The guilt she suf- we know we should do. We’re both too alized were there. He doesn’t have a mean fers because of her growing impatience lazy to do it. And aside from the time we bone in his body. He is without vanity, with him. spend writing (Phillip Margulies is also pride, jealousy, envy, or any of the usual TS: How did you and your family deal a fiction writer), our favorite time is at vices. His unquenchable thirst for knowl- with everything? the end of the day, when all the work is edge and the agility with which he is able MR: I didn’t “deal” with it at all. I just done, and it’s time to go to bed and watch to absorb and assimilate all sorts of infor- went ahead and threw the full force of my- television. mation amazes everyone who knows him. self into everything — no matter how big TS: Why should parents of special- We have had to teach — and continue or how small. Which was a mistake. needs kids read “Queen for a Day?” to teach — Benjy the things that other Although [my husband] Phil grieved MR: For one thing, when it comes to the children seem to pick up automatically. In a lot at the beginning, as I pointed out in books that have been written about au- terms of challenges, there are too many to “Route 94,” he accepted Benjy for who he tism, I don’t think that the subject of being enumerate here. I would say that his impul- was a lot sooner and a lot more easily than the mother of a child with autism (or any siveness is one of the biggest challenges I did. Also, Phil, unlike me, has always been other disability, for that matter) has been we have to deal with — for one thing, it put gifted with an ability to escape (a distinctly dealt with through fiction or non-fiction him in danger. male trait, I think). As far as [my daughter] the way I deal with it in “Queen for a Day.” TS: How do your novel’s stories speak Sammy is concerned, I am just beginning My book is both a work of literary fiction to the loneliness and isolation that can be to realize that all this affected her in ways and also a kind of expose of the under- an inherent part of raising a child with a I had never imagined it did. world that the parents of children with disability? TS: There must have been some good disabilities inhabit. It portrays a range of MR: I think the themes of loneliness times? mothers (none of whom are anointed with and isolation inform every story in the col- MR: I can’t think of any specific “good the sainthood that is often automatically lection. Mimi’s dependence on Amy in the times” to cite as examples here. I can only conferred on us unfortunate women). story “Queen for a Day” stands out in my say that, setting all my worries and anxiet- • • • mind as the most cogent manifestation of ies about him aside for a moment, Benjy’s Look for part two of this interview with those feelings. “The Bike Path” is the story entire way of being — his loving nature, Maxine Rosaler, author of “Queen for a that most baldly expresses the misery and his innocence, his happiness, his endless Day: A Novel in Stories” (Amazon.com), in loneliness and fear that being the mother curiosity, his gifts — is a wonder. next month’s issue. of a child with a disability entails: Mimi’s TS: Describe your parenting styles. Tammy Scileppi is a Queens-based free- irrational fear of something happening to MR: Phil knows how to have fun with lance writer, parent, and regular contributor to her husband. Her incapacitating depres- our children. He knows how to talk to New York Parenting.

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Special Advertising Section June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 21 ‘Island’ dream Celebrated novelist Junot Diaz debuts first children’s book

BY SHNIEKA L. JOHNSON

uthor Junot Díaz has won prestigious prizes A and accolades for his works, including “Drown,” “The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao,” and “This Is How You Lose Her.” But it may have surprised some when the liter- ary lion, who attended Rutgers University and went on to earn a Masters degree from Cornell University, decided to write a children’s book. Díaz was born in the Dominican Republic, im- migrated to the United States with his family when he was 6, and he spent the bulk of his childhood growing up in New Jersey. Traces of his childhood parallel that of the protagonist in his debut picture book. Díaz’s “Islandborn” (Dial Books) explores the topics of culture, identity, and belonging through the eyes of the main character, Lola. His colorful pic- ture book relates Lola’s experi- ence as she discovers her heritage and celebrates imagination. The artistry is the work of illustrator Leo Espinosa. “First time and I got so lucky to work with Leo. He’s so brilliant, and he brought a magnificent Carib- bean sensibility to the project — vibrant, playful, and soulful. I’m hoping we work together again very soon,” Díaz told our publication. The text and illustrations of this well-crafted children’s book will resonate with young readers around the extraordinary journey. Her imagination country and will lead to wonderful con- takes her on a trip back to her island. to write a children’s book, Díaz said, versation in the classroom and at home. Díaz hopes that his work will encour- “I kept having to explain to the young Díaz believes exercising imagination is age more multicultural representation people in my life why, if I’m a writer, had especially important for immigrants, be- in children’s books. (He is also the co- I not written any books for them? And I cause they often need to make homes founder of the Voices of Our Nation Arts didn’t have any good answers for them. for themselves where previously there Foundation, which provides emerging So I ended up writing the book as part were none. writers of color with workshops and of my answer.” Like his fiction for adults, In this book, Lola’s teacher asks her mentoring.) “Islandborn” has earned rave reviews, in- diverse class to draw a picture of the “Every little bit helps. Diverse books cluding from the School Library Journal places where their families emigrated for a diverse world. Nothing else will do. as well as Publisher’s Weekly. from. Lola struggled to remember her Otherwise, we cheat ourselves of what is The process of writing content for a island. Just a baby when she immigrated so sublime about humanity — our splen- children’s book is quite different than with her clan, she seeks the help of did, endless variety,” Díaz noted. writing for adults, which was a distinc- her family and friends to uncover her When asked how he became inspired tion not lost on Díaz.

22 bronx/riverdale Family • June 2018 keep alive the story of all that courage it “Diverse books for a took to do so.” In his own act of courageousness, Díaz diverse world. Nothing most recently made waves with the pub- lishing of a very personal essay in The else will do. Otherwise, we New Yorker, revealing that he had expe- rienced sexual abuse as a child. In it, he cheat ourselves of what is explained the toll that this trauma had so sublime about humanity on his behaviors during his adolescence, young adulthood, and in adult relation- — our splendid, endless ships. From depression to uncontrollable rage, Díaz faced many challenges as a variety.” — Junot Díaz male victim of sexual assault. He main- tained his silence until, as an adult, he finally sought help. “I’ve never thrown out so much work Many are anticipating what will come in my life,” he said. “The demands of the next for the influential author, who has form are cruel. You don’t have a lot of been named a New York Times-bestsell- space for anything.” ing author, MacArthur and Guggenheim Despite the limited space, Díaz in- Fellow, Pulitzer Prize-winner, and is cur- cluded a lot of content within the pages rently professor of writing at the Mas- of “Islandborn,” touching on themes of sachusetts Institute of Technology. It immigration, culture, and identity. seems, though, that Díaz has embraced “It is in childhood where we create the title of “children’s book author.” paradigms about ourselves and others “[I] already handed in my second pic- which will guide us for many years to are first and foremost an opportunity ture book. We’ll see what comes next,” come. If you are not exposed to these for adults and children to connect over said Díaz. fundamental questions early — how can stories, which is always a beautiful thing. Shnieka L. Johnson is an education consul- you live healthily in a world that is a This is a story about how it often takes a tant and freelance writer. She is based in Man- world in which immigration, culture, and whole community to face a monster and hattan, where she resides with her husband identity play a central, if not determina- how each generation has to face that and son. Contact her via her website: www. tive, role?” He added, “Books like this monster anew, if only so that they can shniekajohnson.com.

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June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 23 Calendarjune

Watch out for that big bad wolf! The three little pigs are building their show presented by WonderSpark Pup- houses and watching out for the big bad pets. wolf at Highbridge Library on June 28. “The Three Little Pigs” June 28, 3 pm. The big bad wolf is coming to huff Free. For all ages. and puff and blow their houses down. Highbridge Library [78 W. 168th St. in Which little piggie is the smartest? Highbridge, (718) 293–7800; www.wonder- Find out in this whimsical puppet spa​rkpuppets.com/free-s​ummer-shows].

24 bronx/riverdale Family • June 2018 Never miss a great event! Sign up for our FREE newsletter and get twice-a-week ideas for you and your family right in your mailbox. NYParenting.com Calendar

Fri, June 1 In The Bronx Seasonal Arts and Crafts: Poe Park Visitor Center at Poe Park, 2640 Grand Con- course; (718) 365–5516; 2:30 pm to 4 pm; Free. Kids create fun art inspired by the season, using various materials and techniques. Tech- niques include Magnetic Art. First Friday: Bartow-Pell Mansion Mu- seum, 895 Shore Rd.; (718) 885–1461; www. bartowpellmansionmuseum.org; 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm; $5 ($15 non-members; $10 seniors & students). Glenwood is at Bartow-Pell! Enjoy the music, explore the museum, and stroll the garden; light refreshments available. The free trolley makes an hourly loop starting at 5:25 pm from the 6 train Pelham Bay Park subway station to the museum to City Island.

Sat, June 2 In The Bronx Summer Sports Experience – Basket- ball Clinic: Williamsbridge Oval Recre- ation Center, 3225 Reservoir Oval East; (718) 543–8672; https://www.nycgovparks.org/ Celebrate dear old dad events/2018/06/15/wbo-talent-show; 9 am to 10 am and 10 am to 11 am; Free. It’s Bats! Brats! and Beer! for dads After the game, kids join in the fun Summer Sports Experience is a free pro- at Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum on for a game of rounders with team mem- gram open to the public. These basketball June 16. bers. clinics are geared towards 6–13 years old. Calling all dads! As part of Father’s Refreshments and food available for The program will run five weeks. Please come Day weekend, the staff at Bartow-Pell purchase. Suitable for all ages. dressed in active wear. Ages 6–9 on Satur- days 9:15–10 am, and 10–13 years old Satur- thinks you deserve a Saturday after- Bats! Brats! and Beer! on June 16, 1 days 10:15–11 am. noon ball game with beer and brats. pm to 4 pm. Free for dads, $10 other Come celebrate on the front lawn of adults, and ($5 for children). Registra- Soccer Clinic: Shoelace Park Benches, Bronx Boulevard and E. 213th Street; (914) the mansion and watch the New York tion required. 434–0958; https://www.nycgovparks.org/ Mutuals play with 1864 rules, balls, Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum [895 events/2018/06/02/top-clinics; 9 am to 11 am; bats, and uniforms — but no helmets Shore Rd. in Pelham Bay, (718) 885–1461; Free. or gloves! www.bartowpel​lmansionmuseum.org]. Join T.O.P Soccer every Saturday morning at Shoelace Park to enjoy free soccer clin- ics from 9 am to 11 am. T.O.P Clinics are de- $2 children 6–18, children under 6 free. Ad- Kids create cute and fun objects out of signed to teach kids the fundamentals of soc- mission is free until noon on Saturday. paper and other ordinary materials they can cer. Our qualified and interpersonal coaches take home. Parents are invited to join their incorporate mind, individual, and team build- Marvel at the beautiful patterns that cover ing exercises to engage our future leaders. the protective shell of the local box turtle. Use little ones in the activities. Classes will begin with stimulating warm-ups fabric and leather scraps to design and deco- “Sherlock Holmes – The Musgrave followed by various soccer station drills then rate a stuffed, wearable turtle-shell backpack. Ritual”: Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum, 895 culminate with a scrimmage game and re-cap Make a turtle egg-shaker and, wearing your Shore Rd.; (718) 885–1461; www.bartowpell- of the session. shell, gather outside to waltz in a parade. mansionmuseum.org; 7:30 pm; $35 ($30 se- Horsehoe Crab Walk: Orchard Beach Na- Boogie Down at the Bronx Zoo: Bronx niors and Students with ID). ture Center, Orchard Beach; (718) 885–3466; Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd.; (718) 220–5100; An ancient family document hidden on the www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers; 10 am to 11:30 www.BronxZoo.com/boogie-down; 1 pm to grounds of a beautiful country home hides a am; Free. 2 pm; $36.95 ($26.95 children 3–12; $31.95 sinister ritual that only Sherlock Holmes can New York City is home to an amazing seniors; Free for children 2 and under. unlock — but some secrets might be best left abundance of wildlife. In May and June, This events presents a variety of cultural buried. Together, we’ll explore the gorgeous horseshoe crabs visit our shores to lay eggs. contributions with artists and performers 19th century mansion and surrounding gar- Our Urban Park Rangers will guide you to from a diverse representation of Bronx cul- dens on a quest to solve a deadly mystery. the best wildlife viewing spots in the urban tures on-site to celebrate the Bronx Zoo, jungle. Bronx culture, and wildlife. Sun, June 3 Family Art Project – A Turtle’s Pace: Kids Paper Arts and Crafts: Poe Park Wave Hill, W. 249th Street and Independence Visitor Center at Poe Park, 2640 Grand Con- In The Bronx Avenue; (718) 549–3200; www.wavehill.org; course; (718) 365–5516; 2:30 pm to 4:30 m; Family Art Project: A Turtle’s Pace: 10 10 am–1 pm; Free with admission. $8 adults, Free. am–1 pm. Wave Hill. See Saturday, June 2.

June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 25 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Basic Canoeing: Van Cortlandt Golf House, Wed, June 6 seum. See Saturday, June 2. Van Cortlandt Ave. West and John Kiernan In The Bronx Nature Trail; (718) 548–0912; https://www. Sat, June 9 nycgovparks.org/events/2018/06/03/basic-ca- Recycle to art: Poe Park Visitor Center at noeing; 11 am to 2 pm; Free. Poe Park, 2640 Grand Concourse; (718) 365– In The Bronx Few experiences compare with being on 5516; 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm; Free. Soccer Clinic: 9 am to 11 am. Shoelace Park the open water in New York City. Our trained Participants will create cute arts and crafts Benches. See Saturday, June 2. Urban Park Rangers will lead you on canoe projects to keep, or give as a gift to their fa- vorite person. (Ages 6–12 years old). The Great Randall’s Island Treasure adventures that range from the gentle waters Hunt: Randall’s Island Park, 20 Randall’s of protected lakes to the challenging open Island Park, (212) 830–7722; Jennifer.wain- waters of rivers and bays. All canoe programs Thurs, June 7 [email protected]; https://randallsis- are for ages 8 years and older. Participation in In The Bronx land.org/events/great-randalls-island-treasure- a manadatory safety review led by a trained hunt-2; 10 am; Free. WBO Field Day: Williamsbridge Oval Recre- Ranger is requied. This basic canoeing pro- Join us for an adventure as we unlock Is- ation Center, 3225 Reservoir Oval East; (718) gram is great for all skill levels. This program land secrets, search for treasure, and explore 543–8672; https://www.nycgovparks.org/ Randall’s Island Park. This free event teaches is first-come, first-served. Due to demand, line events/2018/06/07/wbo-field-day; Noon to 3 may close prior to end time. you how to use a map and compass (materi- pm; Free. als provided) to navigate a fun course. Suit- Turtle and Shell show and tell: Wave School is out for Chancellor’s Day. Come able for ages 5 and up (with an adult). Hill, W. 249th Street and Independence Av- get active with us! In partnership with the Family Art Project – Paper Sky Lan- enue; (718) 549–3200; www.wavehill.org; Montefiore School Health Program, we will have a variety of activities including soccer, terns: Wave Hill, W. 249th Street and Inde- 1 pm to 1:30 pm; Free with admission. $8 pendence Avenue; (718) 549–3200; www. adults, $2 children 6–18, children under 6 tug of war, parachute, obstacle courses and more! This program is geared toward 6–13 wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; Free with admis- free. Admission is free until noon on Saturday. year olds. All are welcome. A small snack and sion. $8 adults, $2 children 6-18, children Our youngest visitors and their families are giveways while supplies last. under 6 free. Admission is free until noon on invited to drop by this informal info station to Saturday. see turtle shells, eggs and meet a live turtle as Imaginative Arts for Kids: Poe Park Venture outside to sketch and observe the Visitor Center at Poe Park, 2640 Grand Con- a part of Wave Hill’s Turtle Day. Ages 4 to 6 sky for cloud shapes and inspiration. Cut col- course; (718) 365–5516; 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm; are welcome with an adult. orful tissue paper into shapes resembling your Free. favorite sky scene. Work with a simple papier- Boogie Down at the Bronx Zoo: 1 pm Kids will learn various techniques for creat- mâché method to transform your sky scene to 2 pm. Bronx Zoo. See Saturday, June 2. ing imaginative arts, including Kirigami, Col- into globe-like lanterns. lage, Tissue Work, Pointillism, and 3D Illusion. Survival Series – Fire Building: Van Turtle talk: Wave Hill, W. 249th Street and Drop in for a program, or try them all! Independence Avenue; (718) 549–3200; Cortlandt Nature Center, W. 246th Street at www.wavehill.org; 2 pm to 3 pm; Free with Capoeira in the Park: East Lawn at Me- Broadway; (718) 548–0912; www.nyc.gov/ admission. $8 adults, $2 children 6-18, chil- morial Grove in Van Cortlandt Park, Broadway parks/rangers; 11 am to 12:30 pm; Free. and 242nd Street; (718) 430–1890; Led by dren under 6 free. Admission is free until noon Our Urban Park Rangers are well-versed expert instructors, this series introduces par- on Saturday. in outdoor lore. Learn tips and tricks that ticipants to the basic fundamentals of the Bra- will enhance your knowledge of the natural June is an active time for turtles, as the zilian martial art of Capoeira and it’s history; world. Fire is mankind’s greatest discovery. females strike out on land in search of safe 6:30 pm to 8 pm; Free. Learn primitive and modern methods for mak- places to lay their eggs. Join environmental Led by expert instructors, this series intro- ing fire safely and responsibly while exploring educator Carl Heitmuller from the Hudson duces participants to the basic fundamentals the great outdoors. All programs are family- Highlands Nature Museum for an informative of the Brazilian martial art of Capoeira and friendly, but are recommended for ages 8 (and humorous) foray into the world of tur- it’s history. years and older. tles. Meet rotund reptiles from the museum’s “Sherlock Holmes – The Musgrave “Sherlock Holmes – The Musgrave Rit- collection. Ages 6 and older are welcome Ritual”: 7:30 pm. Bartow-Pell Mansion Mu- ual”: 2 pm and 7:30 pm. Bartow-Pell Man- with an adult. seum. See Saturday, June 2. sion Museum. See Saturday, June 2. “Sherlock Holmes – The Musgrave Rit- Further Afield Kids Paper Arts and Crafts: 2:30 pm to ual”: 2 pm and 7:30 pm. Bartow-Pell Man- 4:30 pm. Poe Park Visitor Center at Poe Park. sion Museum. See Saturday, June 2. Topsy Turvey Thursdays: Sugar Hill See Saturday, June 2. Childen’s Museum, 898 St Nicholas Ave., Manhattan; (212) 335–0004; www.sugarhill- Outdoor Movie Nights: Randall’s Island Tues, June 5 museum.org; 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm; Free with Park Field 81, 20 Randall’s Island Park; (212) museum admission. 830–7722; Jennifer.wainwright@randallsis- In The Bronx Join the fun, and help our amazing story- land.org; https://randallsisland.org/events; Kid’s Le Petit Art: Dioramas and 3D Art: teller and local resident Carletta Joy Walker 8:40 pm; Free. Poe Park Visitor Center, 2640 Grand Con- bring each story to life! “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” is the fun movie course; (718) 365–5516; 2:30 pm to 4:3 pm; for the night. Randall’s Island Park is an amaz- Free. ing setting to watch a movie under the stars! Fri, June 8 The film, which is rated PG-13, starts at sun- Kids create adorable miniature art and min- In The Bronx set (8:40 pm). iature worlds as gifts for others, or to keep. Parents and kids may participate together. For Seasonal Arts and Crafts: 2:30 pm to 4 Further Afield pm pm. Poe Park Visitor Center in Poe Park. ages 6 to 12 years old. Parents or adults wel- Sou Sou: Caribbean Cultural Center African See Friday, June 1. come with their younger child. Children can Diaspora Institute, 120 E. 125th St., Manhat- make a mini greeting card or journal or color- “Sherlock Holmes – The Musgrave tan; cccadi.org/sousou; Noon to 4 pm; Free. ing book. Ritual”: 7:30 pm. Bartow-Pell Mansion Mu- The family-oriented program is inspired

26 bronx/riverdale Family • June 2018 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar

“Sherlock Holmes – The Musgrave Rit- ual”: 2 pm. Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum. See Saturday, June 2.

Tues, June 12 In The Bronx “Lion and the Mouse” and “Gold- ilocks”: Crotona Park Playground of the Stars, 1511 Fulton Avenue and 171st Street; 311; www.wondersparkpuppets.com/free- summer-shows; 9 am and 10 am; Free. Two favorite fairy tales come to life on stage with the Wonderspark puppets. Kid’s Le Petit Art – Dioramas and 3D Art: 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Poe Park Visitor Center. See Tuesday, June 5. “The Three Little Pigs”: Van Cortlandt Library, 3874 Sedgwick Ave. and Stevenson Place; (718) 543–5150; www.wonderspark- puppets.com/free-summer-shows; 3:30 pm; Free. Find out who is the smartest of the Three Little Pigs in this fun interactive puppet show presented by WonderSpark Puppets.

Wed, June 13 Julieanne Harris In The Bronx Recycle to art: 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Poe Inspiring dance troupe Park Visitor Center in Poe Park. See Wednes- day, June 6. Philadanco takes the stage at the impact African-Americans, Philadanco Joyce Theater from June 12 through has curated a program that shines light Thurs, June 14 June 17. on the current social climate that af- In The Bronx The dance troupe returns for another fects all people of color. season of athleticism and dance featur- Philadanco, June 12, 13, 16, and 17 at Imaginative Arts for Kids: 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Poe Park Visitor Center in Poe Park. ing new movements including “Folded 7:30 pm; June 14 and 15 at 8 pm; June See Thursday, June 7. Prism,” “A Movement of Five,” “New 17 and 16 at 2 pm (June 16 show is a Fruit and With(in) Verse.” family matinee). Tickets range from Capoeira in the Park: 6:30 pm to 8 pm. Known as a company that often $20 to $40. East Lawn Memorial Grove at Van Cortlandt Park. See Thursday, June 7. champions African-American tradi- The Joyce Theater [175 Eighth Ave. at tions in dance as well as using the 19th Street in Chelsea, (212) 242–0800; Further Afield art form to tackle social issues which www.Joyce.org]. Topsy Turvey Thursdays: 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Sugar Hill Childen’s Museum. See Thurs- day, June 7. by the savings clubs tradition of the African Catch-and-release fishing is a great way to Diaspora with a twist — a culture savings club get outdoors and discover nature just a few Fri, June 15 for the entire family. Attendees get to enjoy blocks from home. Our experienced Rangers art, dance, music workshops, and many more teach the ethics of fishing and the ecology In The Bronx activities that elevate the history and tradi- of our waterways on every fishing program. Seasonal Arts and Crafts: 2:30 pm to 4 tions of the African diaspora. This month is Get ready to get your hands wet! Seining pro- pm. Poe Park Visitor Center in Poe Park. See Baba Sousou, Celebrate Our Fathers — it’s grams use nets to catch fish. All equipment Friday, June 1. Baba and me time with a presentation from provided; this program is recommended for Callaloo Kids theater. ages 8 years and older. Participation is first- WBO Talent Show: Williamsbridge Oval come, first-served. Recreation Center, 3225 Reservoir Oval East; (718) 543–8672; https://www.nycgovparks. Sun, June 10 Family Nature Walk: Wave Hill, W. 249th org/events/2018/06/15/wbo-talent-show; In The Bronx Street and Independence Avenue; (718) 549– 5:30 pm to 7 pm; Free. 3200; www.wavehill.org; 1 pm to 2 pm; Free Check out the local talent from the Wil- Family Art Project – Paper Sky Lan- with admission to the grounds. liamsbridge Oval Recreation Center! We will terns: 10 am–1 pm. Wave Hill. See Saturday, Join naturalist and educator Gabriel Willow have all types of artists, including dancers, June 9. on a family-friendly walk through the gardens magicians, singers and more. All are welcome Seining: Orchard Beach Nature Center, Or- or woodlands. Registration is not required. to watch the performances. Do you have tal- chard Beach; (718) 885–3466; www.nyc.gov/ Ages 6 and older are welcome with an adult. ent? Showcase your dance, poetry, art, com- parks/rangers; Noon to 1:30 pm; Free. Severe weather cancels. edy. Please reach out to quiana.haynes@

June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 27 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

parks.nyc.gov or [email protected]. mansion and watch the New York Mutuals Capoeira in the Park: 6:30 pm to 8 pm. play with 1864 rules, balls, bats, and uniforms East Lawn Memorial Grove at Van Cortlandt — but no helmets or gloves! After the game, Park. See Thursday, June 7. Sat, June 16 kids join in the fun for a game of rounders In The Bronx with team members. Beer, brats, and hot Further Afield Soccer Clinic: 9 am to 11 am. Shoelace Park dogs available for purchase. Topsy Turvey Thursdays: 3:30 pm to 4:30 Benches. See Saturday, June 2. Kids Paper Arts and Crafts: 2:30 pm to pm. Sugar Hill Childen’s Museum. See Thurs- 4:30 m. Poe Park Visitor Center - Poe Park. See day, June 7. Family Art Project: Pollinator Bats and Saturday, June 2. Nocturnal Flowers: Wave Hill, W. 249th Street and Independence Avenue; (718) 549–3200; Fri, June 22 www.wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; Free with ad- Sun, June 17 In The Bronx mission. $8 adults, $2 children 6–18, children under 6 free. Admission is free until noon on In The Bronx Seasonal Arts and Crafts: 2:30 pm to Saturday. Family Art Project – Pollinator Bats 4 pm. Poe Park Visitor Center - Poe Park. See Take part in an interactive project painting and Nocturnal Flowers: 10 am–1pm. Friday, June 1. nocturnal flowers in fluorescent colors to add Wave Hill. See Saturday, June 16. to a night-garden, “glow room” installation. Sat, June 23 Then make a furry, handmade paper-puppet Mon, June 18 bat to fly in the dayglo garden for a nectar In The Bronx feast at night. Pollinators Weekend event. Further Afield Family Art Project – Butterfly Habitat Meet the Bees: Wave Hill, W. 249th Street NYC Autism Charter Schools Board Hats: Wave Hill, W. 249th Street and Inde- and Independence Avenue; (718) 549–3200; Meetings: NYC Autism Charter Schools, 433 pendence Avenue; (718) 549–3200; www. www.wavehill.org; 11 am to 1 pm; $40. E. 100th St. Manhattan; 977 Fox St. Bronx; wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; Free with admis- sion. $8 adults, $2 children 6–18, children This hands-on adventure is held in the api- (212) 860–2580; csecharan@nycacharter- under 6 free. Admission is free until noon on ary. Get up close and personal with the bees school.org; www.nycautismcharterschool.org; 5 pm; Free. Saturday. of Wave Hill! Observe bee behavior in the gardens, then suit up in a hat and veil to peek The NYCA Charter Schools Board Meet- See them and sketch them flying among inside a hive filled with 50,000 honeybees. ings are open to parents, staff and any other the meadow grasses or on the butterfly bush Search for worker bees, drones, brood (baby members of the public. in Wave Hill’s Flower Garden. Learn about bees), and maybe even catch a glimpse of the the life cycle of local butterfly species and elusive queen. This event is appropriate for Tues, June 19 the conditions they need in order to survive. curious adults, and kids aged 14 and older Then make a richly textured butterfly-habitat who are accompanied by an adult. In The Bronx hat filled with flowers and insects in an active Kid’s Le Petit Art: 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. landscape. Family Fitness Festival: Williamsbridge Poe Park Visitor Center. See Tuesday, June 5. Oval Recreation Center, 3225 Reservoir Oval Kids Paper Arts and Crafts: 2:30 pm to East; (718) 543–8672; https://www.nycgov- 4:30 pm. Poe Park Visitor Center - Poe Park. parks.org/events/2018/06/15/wbo-talent- Wed, June 20 See Saturday, June 2. show; Noon to 3 pm; Free. In The Bronx Come to the fith annual festival and enjoy Sun, June 24 some fun and healthy activities for the entire “Lion and the Mouse”: Slattery Park, 231 family! There will be free cooking demos, fit- E. 183rd St; 311; www.wondersparkpuppets. In The Bronx ness demos, sports and games for the kids, com/free-summer-shows; 11 am; Free. Family Art Project – Butterfly Habitat arts and crafts, face painting, and free raffles An Aesop Fable that teaches and enter- Hats: 10 am–1 pm. Wave Hill. See Saturday, and giveaways. It’s important a family makes tains, presented by WonderSpark Puppets. June 23. staying healthy fun! This way it will be a part Recycle to art: 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Poe of a regular lifestyle. When adults workout Park Visitor Center - Poe Park. See Wednes- Tues, June 26 and eat healthy, children are more likely to day, June 6. follow in their footsteps. The entire family will In The Bronx be engaged for the day, learning how to cook Kid’s Le Petit Art: 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. a healthy meal, creating their own fruit crea- Thurs, June 21 Poe Park Visitor Center. See Tuesday, June 5. ture and participating in relay races. In The Bronx Junior Pollinators Walk: Wave Hill, W. Music Music New York: Bartow-Pell Man- 249th Street and Independence Avenue; (718) sion Museum, 895 Shore Rd.; (718) 885–1461; Wed, June 27 549–3200; www.wavehill.org; 1pm; Free with www.bartowpellmansionmuseum.org; 11 am In The Bronx admission. $8 adults, $2 children 6-18, chil- to 5 pm; Free. dren under 6 free. Recycle to art: 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Poe Make Music New York is NYC’s largest one- Park Visitor Center - Poe Park. See Wednes- Join an expedition to hunt for colorful flow- day free celebration of music. The museum is day, June 6. ers and their creature pollinators in the gar- joining the fun by participating in this unique dens. Pollinators Weekend event. Meet at Per- music holiday, in which music makers of all kins Visitor Center. ages, abilities, and backgrounds take center Thurs, June 28 Bats! Brats! Beer!: Bartow-Pell Mansion stage through live performances in outdoor In The Bronx Museum, 895 Shore Rd.; (718) 885–1461; public spaces across all five boroughs. Partici- Imaginative Arts for Kids: 2:30 pm to www.bartowpellmansionmuseum.org; 1 pm pants are encouraged to perform on the Sing 4:30 pm. Poe Park Visitor Center - Poe Park. to 4 pm; $10 adults ($5 children) Free for dads for Hope piano that day. See Thursday, June 7. all day. Imaginative Arts for Kids: 2:30 pm to Calling all dads! This Father’s Day Week- 4:30 pm. Poe Park Visitor Center - Poe Park. Capoeira in the Park: 6:30 pm to 8 pm. end, come celebrate on the front lawn of the See Thursday, June 7. East Lawn - Memorial Grove - Van Cortlandt

28 bronx/riverdale Family • June 2018 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar

Bronx Zoo Treetop Adventure: Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Blvd.; (718) 220–5100; [email protected]; www.bronxzoo.com; Student art Sundays – Thursdays, 10 am–5 pm, Fridays and Saturdays, 10 am–8 pm, until Sat, June 30; Combo Climb and Zipline: $59.95; Climb on display only: $49.95; Zipline only: $24.95. It’s a wild adventure at the Bronx Zoo! Learning Through Art’s exhibit A Climb through obstacle courses in the for- Year with Children 2018 is currently on est canopy, including rope bridges, tight rope display at the Solomon R. Guggenheim walks, ladders, rolling and swinging elements Museum through June 13. and more. Plus, zipline over and back across the Bronx River! Arrival to Treetop Adventure The annual presentation, now in its must be via the Zoo’s Bronx River Entrance (B). 47th year, showcases select artworks by students in grades two through six who Dig! Plant! Grow! Scent-sational participated in Learning Through Art Herbs: New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. at Fordham Road; (718) 817– during the 2017–18 school year. More 8700; www.nybg.org; Tuesdays – Sundays, than 100 creative and imaginative works 1:30–5:30 pm, Tues, June 19 – Sun, July 15; — including collages, drawings, found Included in All-Garden Pass. Weekends: $28 objects, installations, paintings, sculp- adults, $12 children 2-12, children under 2 ture — and prints will be on display. free. Weekdays: $23 adults, $10 children 2-12, Participating schools include PS 86 and themes related to the school’s cur- children under 2 free. (Kingsbridge Heights); PS 8 (Brooklyn riculum. Enjoy the Family Garden’s herbal delights Heights) and PS 9 (Prospect Heights); The program immerses students in and learn more about the delicious sweet and savory herbs growing throughout the summer PS 28 (Washington Heights), PS 38 and the creative process and studied mod- garden. Smell, touch and explore how herbs PS 375/Mosaic Preparatory Academy ernist artworks on view from the Th- are used in all parts of our daily lives. Pot up (East Harlem); PS 88 (Ridgewood), PS annhauser Collection and an exhibition your own herb plant to tend to at home. 130 (Bayside), PS 144 (Rego Park), and of sculptures by Constantin Brancusi. Further Afield PS 317 (Rockaway Park); and PS 48 (Gr- Learning Through Art’s A Year with asmere). Children 2018, daily, 10 am to 5 pm. Free “Frozen” on Broadway: St. James The- Thirteen teaching artists facilitated with general admission, no reserva- atre, 246 W. 44th St., Manhattan; (866) 870– 2717; frozenthemusical.com; $100 and up. 16 residencies in 11 New York City pub- tions required. Suitable for all ages. A musical worth melting for! If you loved lic schools, working closely with class- Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum [1071 the movie “Frozen,” you’ll love seeing Anna, room teachers to develop projects that Fifth Ave. at 89th Street on the Upper East Elsa, Kristoff, and Olaf come to life on stage promote visual literacy while exploring Side, (212) 423–3500, www.gu​ggenheim. to tell the timeless tale of two sisters who are and making connections with ideas org]. pulled apart by a mysterious secret. Of course, there’s the classic song “Let It Go,” plus many new numbers for this new production. Park. See Thursday, June 7. form of sprays, stamps and crayons, to make Learning Through Art: Solomon R. tree art on your own reusable bag. Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave. at Further Afield Kids Paper Arts and Crafts: 2:30 pm to 89th Street, Manhattan; (212) 423–3500; Topsy Turvey Thursdays: 3:30 pm to 4:30 4:30 pm. Poe Park Visitor Center - Poe Park. www.guggenheim.org; Daily, 10 am to 5 pm. Sugar Hill Childen’s Museum. See Thurs- See Saturday, June 2. pm; until Wed, June 13; Free with general day, June 7. admission. A Year with Children 2018, is an annual Fri, June 29 Long-running presentation, now in its 47th year, and show- In The Bronx cases select artworks by students in grades In The Bronx two through six from the 11 public schools Georgia O’Keeffe and Hawai’i: New Seasonal Arts and Crafts: 2:30 pm to who participated in program. More than 100 York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. creative and imaginative works, including col- 4 pm. Poe Park Visitor Center - Poe Park. See at Fordham Road; (718) 817–8700; www. Friday, June 1. lages, drawings, found objects, installations, nybg.org; Tuesdays – Sundays, 10 am–6 pm, paintings, sculpture, and prints will be on Included in All-Garden pass. Weekends: $28 display. Sat, June 30 adults, $12 children 2-12.; Weekdays: $23 adults, $10 children 2-12; children under 2 Governors Island: New York Harbor, Man- In The Bronx free. hattan; https://govisland.com; Weekdays, 10 Family Art Project – Love-a-Tree Can- Inspired by O’Keeffe’s unique style of rep- am–6 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am–7 vas Bags: Wave Hill, W. 249th Street and In- resenting close-up views of flowers and fruit, pm, Ferries run from Manhattan and Brook- dependence Avenue; (718) 549–3200; www. children investigate botanical specimens and lyn. Check website for schedules and fares. wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; Free with admis- create art. Play in a Hawai’ian sandscape- Entry to the island is free. sion. $8 adults, $2 children 6–18, children un- a sandbox inspired by O’Keeffe’s landscape This unique New York City destination is der 6 free. Admission is free until noon. paintings featuring real shell and rock speci- open for the season! The 172-acre island in Trees give us so much — shade, beauty, mens to uncover. Pot up a tropical ginger cut- the heart of New York Harbor has something food, even oxygen. Why not make more of ting to take home and observe its growth! for everyone, from biking, slides, play foun- them and showcase them on a classy can- Activities in the Everett Children’s Adventure tains and hammocks to tours of historic Fort vas bag! Use stencils and fabric paints, in the Garden. Jay and Castle Williams.

June 2018 • bronx/riverdale Family 29 Writing the book on repeating a grade

By ReBecca eisenBeRg

o you have a child that repeated a grade? Are you thinking about hav- D ing your child repeat a grade? This topic comes up often in the public-school system, specifically around this time of the year, when plans are being made for the following year. When I had to consider this question for my son, the lack of infor- mation and help on the subject astounded me. So, I wrote it myself with my book “My Second Year of Kindergarten.” I went through this process with my son about three years ago. When his teachers recommended he repeat kindergarten, my husband and I felt mixed about it. From one perspective, I felt that giving him an extra year, given his age and delays, would be an optimal opportunity. On the other hand, what would this do for my son so- cially? How would he feel about repeating a grade? After searching online for research and resources about repeating a grade — specifically kindergarten — I came up with very little valuable information. As a speech-language pathologist, my instinct is to find research and evidence to make in- formed decisions, but with this topic, there was little research available. In spite of this, my mother’s gut was telling me that my son repeating kindergarten was the right thing for him. The one thing I have learned as a parent is that I need to listen to my instinct about what is right for my child. This in- stinct, along with support from my son’s progress he could look forward to making that could help other children develop a educators, is ultimately what helped my the following year. My husband and I took more flexible mindset about children with husband and I make the decision. the time to tell him about this process in a varying delays and disabilities. Once we decided our son would repeat simple, straightforward, and honest man- Would you like to learn more? I dis- the grade, we collaborated with his team ner with little complex language. We also cussed this topic with Penny Williams from at school and spoke to the principal. The presented the information in a positive Parenting ADHD and Autism at http://par- decision just felt right for me. However, way and left the discussion open ended. entingadhdandautism.com/2018/04/05/ this was just the beginning, because we The topic of repeating kindergarten is not pap-036-repeating-grade-school-becca- then had to tell our son and go through a one-time conversation, it’s a dialogue eisenberg. You can also check out my the process of the transition. As a par- that occurs over time. website, www.mysecondyearofkindergar- ent and children’s book reviewer, I find Once I saw how this story helped my ten.com. that books tend to help my children and son, I published it so other parents and Rebecca Eisenberg is a speech-language I discuss more difficult topics. But again, educators could benefit as well. Since the pathologist, instructor, parent of two children, I found no books about repeating a grade. April release, I have heard from many par- and author of several games for children with So I decided to write “My Second Year of ents about how much they value a book special needs, a story time workbook, and the Kindergarten.” Reading the draft to my son like this because of the lack of available children’s books “The Monkey Balloon,” “A helped him understand the reasons why resources on this topic. I also wanted to Tale of The Monkey Balloon,” and “My Second he was staying in kindergarten and the make this process a positive experience Year of Kindergarten.”

30 bronx/riverdale Family • June 2018 SOLVE YOUR CHILD’S READING PROBLEM achieACHIEVEVe 13 toTO 36 YYEARSears OFoF READINGreadinG IMPROVEMENTimProVement INthis ONE summer YEAR!!!.

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