Fall Fun! Creative Ideas for Autumn Parties
High School October 2017 Bronx/Riverdale FREE Family Choices www.NYParenting.com Fall fun! Creative ideas for autumn parties
Local teens are young innovators
Fighting the bully problem
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Features columns 6 Scaring up fun 10 Just Write Mom Creative ideas to make your autumn by Danielle Sullivan party a hit By Denise Yearian 30 Good Sense Eating by Christine M. Palumbo, RD 8 A kinder world When and why bullies rule, and how to encourage empathy calendar By Myrna Beth Haskell 24 October Events 12 Next generation 22 Local teens garner awards as STEM Innovators special sections By Tammy Scileppi 16 High School Directory 14 Brooklyn Tech wins gold A prestigious high school takes honor for student government group By Shnieka L. Johnson 20 Ten tips for choosing a tutor for your child By Denise Yearian 22 The right way to clean How instilling a tidying habit now will pay a lifetime of dividends By Allison Plitt 10
October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 3 letter from the PublIsher
New routines and fall beginning
y now the new sched- she has shared with us a com- mind that your toddlers of today will be ules have been put in pelling article about bullying teens before you know it. It’s absolutely B motion and the after that I urge every parent/care- amazing how quickly it all whizzes by and school arrangements and giver to read. Please make how responsibilities and disciplines you programs have either been sure to pass it on. Issues such thought were years away suddenly find working out or are still being as bullying are of the utmost themselves manifest in your family’s life. finalized. New schools, grades importance, and as parents, It’s important to keep your options open and teachers have become we need to be as informed as for future school choices and it’s never more familiar in the weeks we can be. too early to begin discovering what would since school began and our Every October we highlight work best for your family. kids are adjusting to the new routines. articles about teens and present a special Enjoy the mostly gorgeous month of In this issue Denise Yearian has shared advertising section to draw attention to October and have a safe and Happy Hal- some ideas about how to look for a tutor. the High School Open Houses going on loween. I know in my family there were subjects around New York. This year is no excep- Thanks for reading. that warranted extra study and one-on- tion, and in fact, we are pleased to high- one strategies, and we were all glad we light two stories about teens excelling in found good part time tutors to make the our area. The prestigious Brooklyn Tech classroom experience more successful. Be has taken honors for its student govern- sure to check out her 10 tips in choosing ment and a group of teens from around the the right tutor. city has garnered awards as STEM innova- Susan Weiss-Voskidis, Myrna Beth Haskell is always a welcome tors. Exciting stuff! Publisher/Excutive Editor contributor to our editorial and this month It’s important as parents to keep 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©2017 Managing editor: Vince DiMiceli Floor, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. assistant editor: Courtney Donahue New York Parenting can also be reached by coPy editors: Lisa J. Curtis calling (718) 260-4554, emailing Family@ NYParenting.com or by visiting our website, calendar editor: Joanna Del Buono NYParenting.com.
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October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 5 Scaring up fun Creative ideas to make your autumn party a hit
By Denise yearian paintbrush and white paint to draw a craft foam, then cut a small slit in the mouth, nose, and whiskers. Draw and cut center of each leaf. Draw a face onto the hether you’re planning a boun- out a black tail shape and two triangular- bottom side of an orange paper plate tiful harvest celebration or a shaped ears. Cut two smaller triangles with a black permanent marker. Line W creepy crawly Halloween party, from pink paper for the insides of the up the face plate with a second orange you may want to consider these craft, ears; glue to black triangles. Glue ears plate, rims together, and bottoms facing game, and food suggestions. to the top inside edge of the can and the out. Use a hole punch to create holes one tail to the back side of the can. Fill with inch apart around the perimeter of both Crop of crafts treats. plates. Place dried beans and small jingle When doing crafts with kids in a group Jack-o-lantern pots. Buy various- bells between the two plates. Also put setting, plan a main craft with a short, sized terra cotta pots and turn them up- the dowel between the plates, moving second activity — coloring pages or side down so the drainage hole is facing a short end of the stick above the facial stringing popcorn — for early finishers. up. On yellow construction paper, draw features to represent the pumpkin stem Whatever crafts you choose, pick ones and cut out two eyes, a nose and a toothy and a long end below for the handle. Sew that are easy to clean up, so you can grin — the wackier the better. Apply Mod plates together by lacing yarn through move on to the next activity. Podge with a paintbrush under and over the holes. Push leaf slits through the Here are a few ideas: the facial features then attach them to short end of the dowel rods and secure Black cat candy jar. Place black elec- the pot. Place a short, wide stick out of with a glue gun. trical tape over the sharp edges of a tin the hole to resemble a pumpkin stem. can. Cover the can with black construc- Pumpkin noisemakers. Paint a 12- by Autumn activities tion paper and glue in place. Glue two half-inch dowel rod black, and let it dry. Games are a staple at kids’ gatherings. wiggly eyes to the can, then use a thin Trace and cut out two leaves from green Choose ones every child can participate
6 bronx/riverdale Family • October 2017 in, where no one is eliminated. With a lit- each child a floating face. tle forethought and creativity, any game Food is more fun when Itsy-bitsy caramel apples. Cut lolli- can be adapted to fit the fall theme: pop sticks in half. Use a melon baller to Broom ball. Purchase half-sized kids are involved in the scoop little balls out of medium-sized brooms for each party guest and two dif- apples, making sure each ball has a sec- ferent colors of seasonal garland. Deco- preparation process. Stick tion of the apple peel. Push a lollipop rate half of the brooms with one color of stick into the peel of each apple ball. Blot garland and the remaining half with the with things children like apples dry with a paper towel. Melt a 14- other garland to specify teams. Establish to eat, and then add a ounce package of caramel candies with goals at opposite ends of the yard, and 2 tablespoons of water. Have children divide the children into teams. Place a seasonal twist to it. dip and swirl their apple balls in caramel kickball in the center of the yard then then roll in crushed Oreo cookies, nuts, give each child a broom to sweep the ball sprinkles, nonpareils, or mini-chocolate to his team’s goal. The first team to score item then tag the next player who does chips. Place on waxed paper to cool for five goals wins. the same. When the scarecrow is com- 15 minutes. Ring around the pumpkin. Place pletely dressed, each teammate returns Pumpkin pancakes. Mix dry ingredi- three large pumpkins with stems in a a second time to stuff straw in his cloth- ents: 1 cup flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 line several feet apart. Gather four hula ing. The first team to finish making their teaspoons baking soda, ¼ teaspoon salt, hoops. To play, children should take scarecrow wins. and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside. turns standing behind the designated Separate two eggs. Mix yolks with ½ tossing line and try to ring the pumpkins Seasonal snacks cup of plain pumpkin puree, 1 cup milk, with the hula hoop. The child with the Food is more fun when kids are in- and 2 tablespoons canola oil. Add dry most rings wins. volved in the preparation process. Stick ingredients. Beat egg whites until fluffy, Scarecrow relay. Separate children with things children like to eat and add a then fold into the batter. Pour ¼ cup of into two teams. Choose one child from seasonal twist to it: batter onto a greased griddle; flip when each team to be the scarecrow. Place Floating faces. Core and peel an bubbles form on top. Kids can make scarecrows at one end of the room, along apple, then cut it in half. Lay one half on jack-o-lantern faces using raisins, dried with hay and oversized scarecrow-type the table and use a paring knife to create fruit, nuts, chocolate chips, and whipped clothing items. Teammates line up at the facial features. Repeat these steps until cream. other end of the room. To play, team- you have enough apple halves for each Denise Morrison Yearian is the former edi- mates take turns running to the scare- party guest. Place apples in cider punch tor of two parenting magazines and the mother crow and dressing him with one clothing bowl. When the cider is labeled, give of three children and four grandchildren.
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October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 7 A kinder world When and why bullies rule, and how to encourage empathy
By Myrna Beth haskell using electronics) has brought bullying to Press, 2012) shares, “Statistically, anxiety a whole new level. Students can no longer and depression are more prevalent and hen I was in school, bullying return home to a safe haven. With cyber- present at much younger ages. People are was an accepted part of the bullying, the torment continues, and there more isolated and are so goal-oriented W climate. There seemed to be is a feeling of no escape. that friendships are not as important.” a commonplace attitude back then that “Bullying is always a problem with so- “kids will be kids,” so victims felt that there cial relationships,” explains Dr. Michele Long-term effects was no one to turn to. Borba, the author of “UnSelfie: Why Empa- The consequences and long-term ef- Fast forward to 2009: I attended an as- thetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me fects of bullying can be devastating, and sembly at my daughter’s middle school World” (Touchstone: Simon & Schuster, the disturbing cases reported in the media called “Ryan’s Story.” John Halligan spoke 2016). “In middle school, bullying is at its seem all too prevalent, such as when about his son, Ryan, a 13 year old who com- peak, and anonymous texts contribute 13-year-old Zoe Johnson, a cheerleader mitted suicide in 2003 after being bullied at to stress, anxiety, and fear because kids from Michigan, committed suicide in 2015 school and online for several years. Halli- don’t know who is sending them.” after being cyberbullied relentlessly. Stop- gan found that the best way to deal with the According to results of the 2013 School bullying.gov reports that even though a enormous pain of losing his son was to use Crime Supplement to the National Crime Vic- small number of bullied children react by his story to inspire change in schools. timization Survey by the U.S. Department of using violent measures, “In 12 of 15 school These types of assemblies are common Education, in April 2015, approximately 22 shooting cases in the 1990s, the shooters in schools today because there is more percent of students ages 12 to 18 were bul- had a history of being bullied.” awareness about the sometimes dire con- lied at school. The Cyberbullying Research Dr. Ellen W. deLara, an associate pro- sequences and long-term effects of bully- Center (cyberbullying.org) reports, “Over- fessor at Syracuse University and author ing. All 50 states now have anti-bullying all, about 25 percent of the students we have of “Bullying Scars: The Impact on Adult laws or policies (to explore state laws see: surveyed over the last eight studies have Life and Relationships” (Oxford University www.stopbullying.gov/laws/). told us that they have been cyberbullied at Press, 2016), reports, “There are numerous However, bullying is still rampant in our some point in their lifetimes.” long-term effects of bullying that plague schools and communities. So, where are What is going on in our communities people throughout adult life. Bullying vic- we going wrong? that so many children are reporting that tims show an increased risk of diabetes bullying has affected their lives? and heart disease. Both victims and bullies The bully problem Dr. Jessie Klein, an associate professor demonstrate greater lifetime anxiety and Bullying is defined by aggressive, re- at Adelphi University, founder and direc- depression than those not involved in bul- petitive behavior toward another where tor of Creating Compassionate Commu- lying. Other effects include difficulty trust- there is a perceived imbalance of power. nities (www.creatingcompassionatecom- ing others, difficulty maintaining friend- Bullying can be verbal, physical, or so- munities.com), and author of “The Bully ships or intimate relationships, very low cial — exclusion or spreading rumors. Society: School Shootings and the Crisis self-esteem, and two to five times greater Cyberbullying (online bullying or bullying of Bullying in America’s Schools” (NYU risk of suicide attempts over a lifespan. Of course, not everyone has long-term effects. However, in my study of over 800 people (as Who is at risk? • Annoys, provokes, or antagonizes well as in the research of others), enough Stopbullying.gov lists the following others for attention. demonstrate these effects that we should characteristics of victims and perpe- higher risk of becoming a bully consider bullying a public health crisis.” trators. It’s important that teachers, (perpetrator): coaches, and parents understand these Two profiles of bullies: The bystander problem characteristics so they can help chil- • T h o s e who have social power and Unfortunately, we’ve all seen disturbing dren with self-image and modify behav- like to dominate others. videos taken of incidents on buses and in iors before bullying situations develop: • T h o s e who are isolated and may hallways which depict a child being ha- higher risk of being bullied (victim): also be depressed, anxious, have low rassed or physically harmed while a gath- • Perceived as different from peers self-esteem, be less involved in school, ered crowd simply watches or encourages (overweight, underweight, wears be easily pressured by peers, or do not the behavior. Bullies won’t rule the school glasses or different clothing, new to a identify with the feelings of others. if the general population (both students school, unable to afford what kids con- • A g g r e s s i v e or easily frustrated. and staff) takes a stand. sider “cool”). • L e s s parental involvement or has “Students, just like adults, are reluctant • Perceived as weak or unable to de- issues at home. to intervene when there is a physical alter- fend him or herself. • T h i n k s badly of others. cation or a verbally abusive interaction be- • Depressed, anxious, or low self- • H a s difficulty following rules. tween other students,” says deLara. “The esteem. • Views violence in a positive way. main reason students cite is that they will • L e s s popular or has few friends. • H a s friends who bully others. be the next target if they get involved.” Dr. Rachel Annunziato, a child psycholo-
8 bronx/riverdale Family • October 2017 for kids to do meaningful work to learn empathy hands-on is so important.” Mentoring peers, volunteering for chari- table organizations, or simply helping those who are less fortunate are great em- A kinder world pathy-building experiences, particularly if they are done out of the goodness of the heart as opposed to a required activity for a school organization.
Programs and awareness Creating a bully-free environment re- quires cooperation between school staff, parents, and students. In March 2011, Na- tional PTA launched an initiative called Connect for Respect to help students, par- ents, and educators to create safe school climates. Anti-bullying themed assemblies have become the norm, and many schools have adopted anti-bullying programs that focus on teaching and encouraging positive be- havior, but the implementation, consistency, and communication between parents and school staff all affect a program’s success. Positive Behavior Interventions and Sup- ports, No Bully System, and Safe School Ambassadors Program are examples. “There are programs that schools can implement, starting with the youngest chil- dren, that have been effective in promoting empathy called social-emotional learning programs,” deLara reports. gist and associate professor at Fordham parents to emphasize kindness rather than However, deLara adds that educators University, reports, “There is research out putting the focus on grades and accolades. are still looking for programs that will dem- of Europe showing that bystander inter- “I mean, when is the last time you’ve seen onstrate effectiveness over time and with vention — defending the victim or ignor- a bumper sticker that says ‘Proud Parent diverse ethnic populations. ing the bully to remove reinforcement — is of a Kind Kid?’ We are raising stressed-out Parents must be tuned into their child’s associated with bullying frequency.” kids who are scheduled to death. As stress emotional and social health. Annunziato Adults need to teach kids how to re- builds, empathy wanes because you are in reports, “Signs that bullying is occurring spond to a bullying situation when they survival mode.” may be changes in anxiety level, moods, are not the target. Klein agrees with Borba. and self-esteem. Changes in peer relation- Klein clarifies that students need to “Deadlines and punctuality become ships are also key indicators.” She encour- be taught the difference between being more important than helping one another,” ages parents to contact school staff if they a tattletale and getting help for someone she says. Klein offers an example of a stu- become aware that their child is being who is in distress. She asserts, “We need dent refusing to help a peer find his class- bullied. “Children may fear that conversa- to encourage communities where kids are room because of fear of the consequences tions with school personnel could lead to committed to protect one another and are for being late. increased bullying. So parents should be responsible for one another.” prepared to explain how steps are being “Bullying is reduced dramatically when Teach empathy early taken to prevent this.” kids who witness it stand up for the victim,” “During preschool, explaining bullying Klein advises parents to help their Borba says, “but most kids will say they do and ensuring there is no tolerance for it is kids seek an alternative culture outside of not know what to do because adults have important. So is character building — em- school so that in-school relationships do not given them the tools to intervene.” phasizing kindness,” Annunziato explains. not encompass a child’s entire social life. Students are more apt to report bullying Klein teaches empathy building games Lastly, kids need to be encouraged to if they trust it will be anonymous. when she visits schools, such as I Have a speak up and tell a trusted adult if they are “Schools must have reporting boxes Complaint. being bullied or see someone else being and the administration must read reports “Students write down a complaint — ‘I bullied. regularly,” Borba claims. “The majority of am feeling lonely’ — and are prompted to “Occasionally, a student or group of bullying happens when adults aren’t pres- work with a partner or group to work out students can try to intervene. This can be ent, so students have to be able to report what the student needs. The objective is to very successful, especially if they are well- incidents safely.” make the complaint into a dream — ‘I have liked and respected in the school,” deLara a dream to have a meaningful connection.’ ” suggests. The kindness cure This helps students to see that a negative Myrna Beth Haskell is an award-winning au- “The antidote to bullying is empathy,” feeling can be turned into a positive goal. thor whose work has appeared in publications Borba states. She instructs teachers and Borba suggests, “Finding opportunities across the globe (www.myrnahaskell.com).
October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 9 Parents
Just write mom Danielle Sullivan
nary and ordinary. When we let go of rigid expectations for our children and start to see them as the beautiful and imperfect people they are, we see them in a whole new light. “We begin to notice the nuanced quali- ties of their character and are amazed by all that unfolds before us,” Tsabary adds. “Instead of medals and certificates being the qualifiers of merit, we begin to pay attention to the joy in their eyes and the Don’t try to live quickness of their smiles.” Dr. Tsabary continues: “The insight slowly dawns that our children are indeed extraordinary — in their very ordinariness through your kid and that we can end the quest for them to be anything ‘extra’ or ‘special,’ for they e all have that friend, or more Dr. Shefali Tsabary, clinical psycholo- already possess all that they need to in specifically perhaps, that Face- gist and author of the New York Times this present moment. Isn’t this a liberat- W book friend, who systematically bestseller, “The Conscious Parent,” writes ing thought? I counter that not only is it plasters their child’s achievements all over that many parents live through their liberating for us to stop the quest of fixing their feed on a daily basis. child, and questions it: “Why is there and producing our children — but also, ul- Even before social media, parents did such a need for us — parents especially timately, it’s empowering for our children. the same on the telephone, playground, — to raise ‘extraordinary’ children? Is Can you imagine the release of pressure a and schoolyards (although not to the our sense of self so compromised that child must feel knowing that who it is they same extreme). In doing so, they made we need our children to wear bells and are — at this present moment — is worthy their child’s achievements more important whistles just so we can feel good about of their parent’s praise?” than their child. Perhaps not intentionally, ourselves?” I think about how many adults still feel many moms and dads trade in their child’s Parenting is about teaching your child inadequate from their parents’ expecta- own uniqueness, innate goodness and the to be the best he or she can be, confident tions, never feeling they lived up to what essence of what they are for awards, tro- and secure enough to adjust to life’s chal- they could be. Imagine a world where phies, and what they can do. lenges, and helpful and productive in the every adult felt good enough. I dare say Unfortunately, this has the exact oppo- world. Parenting is not about perfecting that the violent and tumultuous world we site effect of what was likely intended. The the ideal plan to acquire the most acco- now live in might be vastly different. child quickly begins to wonder what they lades. If most parents would realize that We all want the best for our children, are without their certificates and honors, what they are doing is placing unneces- and sometimes the best solution is the which hinders their self-esteem, instead sary and strenuous pressures on their most simple. Let our kids be who they are, of boosting it. And what’s behind it all has children, most would stop, and it all begins and as they grow, let them become who nothing to do with the child. Whether pur- with releasing expectations. they are, not who we want them to be. posely or not, the parent’s need to feel im- There is no need for a child to be ex- Danielle Sullivan is a writer living in New portant through their child’s accomplish- traordinary, writes Dr. Tsabary, because York City. Follow her on Instagram @Dee- ments is what fuels this behavior. actually, all children are both extraordi- write.
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October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 11 Next generation Local teens garner awards as STEM Innovators
By Tammy Scileppi the state of charge of lithium-ion poly- “We think it’s important mer batteries. In English, this means trio of talented tech entrepre- that I am applying an algorithm that is neurs received some much de- to recognize STEM and typically used for other applications A served attention at the third an- (such as GPS positioning) to calculate nual New York City “Young Innovators to high-tech initiatives at battery percentage in small robots,” he Watch” awards. explained. “My method allows robots, In July, the winners exhibited their a young age, because if among other battery-powered devices, amazing projects at a special presenta- these students get some to be safer and more efficient, while also tion of prizes in Manhattan. maximizing battery usage to squeeze These students, under the age of 20, reinforcement, they’re out the last bits of power when it’s are actively shaping the future by com- needed most.” bining imagination with technology. more likely to continue.” It’s a new way to help more accurately “They have been busy working on measure battery life — an industry-wide visionary projects that rise to the chal- problem that he may solve one day. lenge [of] resolv[ing] existing societal is- standing projects. sues, such as water quality, food waste, Future plans and physical injuries sustained by the vi- Michael Klamkin, 16 “I plan to go to a university and become sually impaired,” said Robin Raskin, the Winner for his Dual Extended Kalman an electrical engineer. However, I under- program’s creator. “Being recognized at Filtering algorithm, Michael Klamkin stand that life may lead me on a different an industry technology showcase is re- lives in Staten Island with his parents, path, so I am keeping my options open. ally empowering for these winners.” both Russian immigrants. “Our family is I have recently begun considering going Projects are ranked on their creativ- a blend of traditional Russian culture– into the financial sector doing quantitative ity, user design, use of science, technol- values and modern American culture,” analysis,” he said. ogy, engineering, arts, and math — also he said. “I wouldn’t change it for the known as STEAM; scalability; and civic- world!” Hobbies mindedness. In his spare time, the clever teen has “I enjoy building, designing, and oper- Winning projects include an algo- been designing and prototyping a small ating multicopters (drones); and making rithm that accurately measures lithium- satellite called the MTS-1, as well as small electronics projects.” ion battery percentages and a smart- studying and writing, so he can get into phone device that records customizable a challenging university and continue ex- Sharon Lin, 18 studio-quality sound. ploring his passion for engineering. Winner for her White Water app, Sha- “We started the Young Innovators four ron Lin attended Stuyvesant High School years ago, with the mission of rewarding your recent win and is now a freshman at the Massachu- students with entrepreneurial and inno- “The event was amazing! I had put so setts Institute of Technology. She lives vative ideas by giving them scholarships much effort into developing this project. with her large family in Corona, Queens. and allowing them to have an awards re- The work finally paid off when I saw that This summer, she worked on poetry per- ception at one of our technology events e-mail informing me that I won,” Michael formances as the New York City Youth in either New York or Las Vegas. (We do recalled, adding: “My family was ec- Poet Laureate. this twice a year.)” said Raskin. static. I am extremely lucky to have par- “We think it’s important to recog- ents that actively participate in my life — your recent win nize STEM and high-tech initiatives at a including the academic–scientific side — “I found out I was a Young Innovator young age, because if these students get so they understood just how important during my high school graduation. While some reinforcement, they’re more likely this was to me and how symbolic this I was about to walk across the stage and to continue.” So far, they’ve awarded 41 win was to me. This is the first ‘scholar- receive my diploma, I texted my parents, students and some of them are now in ship’ I had won, and it has inspired me to and I could tell how excited they were in businesses of their own. continue looking for opportunities.” the audience,” Sharon recalled. “It was Three of those 12 highly talented such a great moment to be celebrating award recipients weighed in about their Describe your project our successes and looking forward to recent wins and talked about their out- “It’s a new approach to monitoring new experiences to come!”
12 bronx/riverdale Family • October 2017 Future plans “I’m planning on studying electrical engineering and computer science and applied mathematics. In addition, I’m planning on continuing my work in re- search at the MIT Media Lab and the Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Tech- nology Labs,” Sharon said. “I’m hoping to work as a data scientist or consultant in the near future, although I’m not entirely sure what my future plans are. I’d really like to work on a startup, and I have a few projects that I’m definitely looking into scaling up into larger businesses.”
Hobbies “I really enjoy filmmaking and photog- raphy. I also have a penchant for hiking, meditation, and baking.”
Priya Mittal, 17 Winner for her GoGreen app, Priya Mittal lives in Manhattan with her fam- ily. She said her app “allows restaurants and juice bars to purchase imperfect produce directly from farms at a 20 per- cent markdown, to reduce food waste. Farmers can still sell produce that they would normally throw away and increase profit margins.” According to the judges, Priya’s proj- ect tackles the important social issue of food waste and feeding the hungry, with a simple database design. She demon- strated a keen understanding of the issue and tells the story of how “ugly and im- perfect fruits and veggies” can be used to help so many. Raskin reflected on this year’s innova- tors, “This is hard stuff. I’m extremely impressed with the students’ drive to improve how we participate in the world, today and in the future.” • • • New York City Chief Technology Officer, Miguel Gamiño, who spearheads major (Clockwise from top) Michael Klamkin was named a Young Innovator. Priya Mittal speaks to the initiatives aimed at using technology to im- audience during the award ceremony. Sharon Lin won a “Young Innovators to Watch” award for prove our city for all New Yorkers, added: her app for underdeveloped communities that identifies bacteria and abiotic particles in water. “These forward-thinking students and their ideas inspire me and my team to Describe your project identify pollutants or harmful particles keep working toward a stronger, smarter “It’s an app for underdeveloped com- in their water,” she explained. New York City.” munities that identifies bacteria and abi- According to the judges, Sharon is For more information about the applica- otic particles in water, based on a photo the only two-time winner. Her project tion process, visit http://younginnovator- sample, making it easier for underdevel- is based on solid and unique research. stowatch.com. oped communities to take preventative She’s a natural scientist, who looks at a measures to avoid exposure to water- problem and knows how to tackle it cre- Tammy Scileppi is a Queens-based free- borne illnesses like malaria. Through atively. Plus, she knows how to articulate lance writer, parent, and regular contributor to image recognition, it allows any user to the benefits of her work. New York Parenting.
October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 13 Brooklyn Tech wins gold A prestigious Members of the Brooklyn Technical high school takes High School Student Government honor for student Organization and their adviser are, bot- government group tom row left to right, Nour Haredy, Laura By Shnieka L. JohnSon Chen, Ji Yuen Cha, and top row left to tudents from Brooklyn Technical right, Joseph Kaelin, High School — considered one of the Marly Banatte, most prestigious and selective high S Joseph Glanzberg, schools in the country — are no strang- ers to acknowledgment of their exemplary Jasmin Wang, Husna work. This past spring, their exceptional- Ellis, Alexander ism was recognized again — this time, the Badiu, Rene Clever, honor was given by the National Associa- Kecia O’Neal. tion of Student Councils. For its leadership and service, Brooklyn Tech’s Student Gov- versities — both Ivy League and other ence and Development Conference, which ernment Organization was awarded a 2017 notable colleges like the Massachusetts offers experiential leadership skill develop- National Gold Council of Excellence Award. Institute of Technology, California Institute ment for both students and advisers in order The school (often referred to as Brook- of Technology, University of Chicago, and to sharpen their leadership skills to improve lyn Tech), in Fort Greene, specializes in Stanford University. Its graduates include their school culture and community. science, technology, engineering, and scientists, chief executive officers, and top As a freshman, Yiting (Kelly) Su (’20) mathematics. It is one of the specialized scholars. But before they were graduates has already attended the conferences in high schools operated by the city’s Depart- of Brooklyn Tech or considered notable Washington D.C. and presented at a work- ment of Education. A large and diverse alumni, they were top students and were shop on anti-bullying efforts. She credits school, it stands 68th in national rankings, often recognized for exemplary work. her student government experiences for according to U.S. News and World Report’s The National Association of Student helping to shape her confidence to pursue list of Best High Schools. Councils (representing middle and high such an activity. “Receiving a National Gold Council school councils nationwide) has aimed to Brooklyn Tech’s student council met Award reflects the highest dedication on help student councils become more effec- a variety of criteria in order to receive the part of the school to providing a strong, tive organizations. The student government this award. Aside from the standard writ- well-rounded student council program,” organization offers the opportunity for stu- ten constitution, democratic election, and said Ann Postlewaite, student programs dents to become effective leaders. Alexan- membership in the National Association of director for the National Association of der Badiu (class of 2017) says that his four Student Councils, the students also dem- Secondary School Principals. “NASC ap- years working as a leader in Brooklyn Tech’s onstrated a commitment to leadership, plauds the work of the Gold Councils of student government have taught him “how organized school and community service Excellence and challenges them to con- to truly guide others, form agendas, and projects, and were active in both state and tinue their leadership and service to their facilitate and launch initiatives.” He is most national student council associations. schools and communities.” proud of the Big Sib/Little Sib program that Joseph Kaelin, a coordinator of student Attracting students from all five bor- helps to “significantly ease the transition [to activities at Brooklyn Tech, said, “There oughs, Brooklyn Tech serves nearly 5,700 high school] for entering freshmen.” are only three schools in New York State students. It is one of the largest and most James Kettle (’18) says that his work to receive this award, and Brooklyn Tech successful high schools in the United with the organization has taught him is the only school in New York City” to be States and is touted as one of the most “about cooperation and teamwork and so honored. While lauding the outstanding diverse due to the large percentage of stu- how it is perhaps the most important work of all the students, Kelly Nottingham, dents identifying with multicultural back- thing for being successful because no one assistant principal of Student and Parent grounds or lower socioeconomic status. can do it all by themselves.” He helped Engagement, added “the success of our One of only a few schools in the country to develop a plan for a Freshmen Guid- SGO is mostly due to Mr. Kaelin’s ongoing to offer 18 academic majors for upperclass- ance Reform Initiative so that every ninth dedication to developing effective leaders. men to choose from, its curriculum model grader will quickly meet with his guidance His support and expertise is invaluable.” exceeds the scope of both the New York State counselor in small groups to serve as im- For more information on National As- Regents and the Advanced Placement pro- mediate support to new students. sociation of Student Councils, visit www. gram. Students’ test passage rates for both Student government organizations, a pro- nasc.us. tests exceed district and state averages. gram of the National Association of Second- Shnieka Johnson is an education consultant Due to this great success, admission ary School Principals, are encouraged to in- and freelance writer. She is based in Manhat- is highly competitive, with an acceptance fluence and aid in creating a positive school tan where she resides with her husband and rate of around eight percent. Graduates climate. One opportunity for growth in these son. Contact her via her website, www.shnieka- of the high school attend prestigious uni- areas is to attend the Leadership, Experi- johnson.com.
14 bronx/riverdale Family • October 2017 SOLVE YOUR CHILD’S READING PROBLEM ACHIEVE 3 TO 6 YEARS OF READING IMPROVEMENT IN ONE YEAR!!!
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October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 15 Cardinal Hayes High School CardinalCardinal Hayes Hayes High School Choices FHighaiHigh h School SchoolFILLED Cardinal Hayes Cardinal Hayes DirectorFILLED y High School High School Fai h Cardinal Hayes Academy of Mount to the common good of FILLED society.FILLED Every student and TRANSFORMATIVEHigh FSchoolCardinalai h Hayes TRANSFORMATIVEFai hFILLEDSt. Ursula ai h F every background deserve High School 330 Bedford Park Blvd FILLED respect and consideration. TRANSFORMATIVETRANSFORMATIVEFai h 718-364-5353 Fai hFILLED www.amsu.org Every student has the right to SERVICE ORIENTED DIVERSE safety, love and a challenging SERVICE ORIENTEDTRANSFORMATIVETRANSFORMATIVEFor over 162 years, AMSU has and stimulating learning SERVICE ORIENTEDSERVICE ORIENTED been offering an exceptional DIVERSETRANSFORMATIVEDIVERSEDIVERSE environment CardinalTRADITION Hayes Ursuline education to young Cardinal HayesSERVICE ORIENTED women in grades 9-12. We TRADITIONCardinal HayesSERVICETRADITIONHigh ORIENTED SchoolDIVERSE Creative Cardinal Spellman Cardinal HayesCreative DIVERSECreativechallenge students to respond TRADITIONHigh SchoolHighTRADITION School to the call to scholarship, High School WHY HAYES?High SchoolTRADITIONSERVICEWHY HAYES?WHY HAYES?Creative ORIENTEDai hleadershipFILLED and service. All One Cardinal Place (Needham CreativeFILLEDCreativeFILLEDF lessons and activities areDIVERSE Ave & Baychester Ave) Fai Fhai hFILLED infused with the values of 718-881-8000 x 206 WHY WHYHAYES? HAYES?Fai h Catholic education, rooted www.cardinalspellman.org WHY HAYES? TRANSFORMATIVEin the Gospels. Our school You can have it all – SMALL TRANSFORMATIVETRANSFORMATIVETRANSFORMATIVETRADITIONremains strongly committed school friendliness with BIG to its programs in Academics, school opportunities! This High SERVICE ORIENTED Arts and ServiceCreative Academics: School offers a program of SERVICE ORIENTED DIVERSE DIVERSEThe Class of 2017 earned studies and activities to prepare SERVICESERVICE ORIENTED ORIENTEDDIVERSEDIVERSE nearly $17.5 million in academic each student for personal scholarships and 100% of success in college and in life. WHY HAYES? them were accepted to college. TRADITIONTRADITION Many of the graduates are TRADITIONTRADITION CreativeCreativeArts: Classes in visual arts, awarded college scholarships. AcademicCreative ExcellenceCreativeAcademic Excellencemusic, theater and media In addition to providing a TIMELESS TIMELESS are required. Service: Each strong academic foundation WHYWHY HAYES? HAYES?WHYAcademic HAYES?Academic Excellence ExcellenceAcademic studentExcellence must perform at least for college, students are WHY HAYES?TIMELESSInnovativeTIMELESSTIMELESSInnovative 10 hours of service each year. helped to further develop the ATHLETICS ATHLETICS We encourage all of our young social skills necessary for the InnovativeInnovative Innovativewomen to be leaders in society, demands of college life. Being ATHLETICSATHLETICS and they do! a large co-ed school, students OPEN HOUSEATHLETICSOPEN HOUSE are offered a step forward CONNECTED CONNECTEDTime: 10am-1pm Time: 10am-1pm Cardinal Hayes High toward a more college-like Date: October 15th OPEN HOUSE environment, giving them CONNECTED OPENTime: Date: HOUSE10am-1pm October 15th School Place: Cardinal Hayes High School Place: Cardinal Hayes HighOPEN School HOUSE the opportunity to continue CONNECTED Time: 10am-1pmDate: October 15th 650 Grand Concourse 650 GrandCONNECTED Concourse 650 Grand Concourse to develop their social skills BROTHERHOOD Date: OctoberPlace: 15th Cardinal Hayes High SchoolTime: 10am-1pm718-292-6100 ext. 187 BROTHERHOOD Bronx, NY 10451 Bronx, NY 10451 beyond the small school setting BROTHERHOODPlace: Cardinal Hayes 650 Grand High Concourse School Date: Octoberwww.cardinalhayes.or 15th g 650 Grand Bronx, Concourse NY 10451 Place: Cardinal Hayes High School they are leaving behind, while BROTHERHOOD Inspiring culturally diverse still receiving the support of a For more info contact Craig JosephAcademic at 718-292-6100 x 187 or visit www.cardinalhayes.org Excellence Bronx, NY 10451 650 Grand Concourse For more info contactBROTHERHOOD Craig Joseph at 718-292-6100 x 187 or visit www.cardinalhayes.orgyoung men of the NYC Metro nurturing atmosphere. If you For more info contact Craig Joseph at 718-292-6100 x 187 or visit www.cardinalhayes.org Bronx, NY 10451 TIMELESS Area through spiritual growth are in eighth grade, why not For more info contact CraigAcademic AcademicJoseph at 718-292-6100 x 187Excellence Excellence or visit www.cardinalhayes.org and a rigorous collegiate call for an appointment to TIMELESS preparatory program of Spend-A-Day? TIMELESSInnovativeFor more info contact Craig JosephAcademic at 718-292-6100 x 187 orExcellence visitacademics, www.cardinalhayes.org extra-curricular activities and personal AcademicTIMELESSInnovative Excellence discipline. As a Christian Cathedral High ATHLETICS Innovative School TIMELESSATHLETICSATHLETICS Academiccommunity comprised of Excellence Innovativeparents, students, faculty, Midtown East - Manhattan TIMELESS alumni and benefactors, the 350 E. 56th Street InnovativeATHLETICSOPEN HOUSE goal of personal excellence 212-688-1545 ex. 224 ATHLETICS OPEN HOUSE and responsible citizenship is www.cathedralhs.org CONNECTEDCONNECTED OPENTime: 10am-1pm HOUSE Time:Date: 10am-1pm October 15th accomplished by embracing A Catholic College Preparatory CONNECTED traditional Roman Catholic school that welcomes young Time: 10am-1pmDate:Place: October Cardinal 15th Hayes High SchoolOPEN HOUSEInnovative values. This High School women of all faiths and CONNECTEDDate:OPEN OctoberPlace: HOUSE Cardinal 650 14 Grandth Hayes Concourse High School Time: 10am-1pm BROTHERHOOD ATHLETICS 650 Grand Concourse Community believes: an cultures. We are a community CONNECTED Time: 10am-1pm Bronx, NY 10451 Date: October 15th of students, teachers, BROTHERHOODPlace: Cardinal Bronx, Hayes NY 10451 High School effective Roman Catholic Date: October 15th Place: Cardinal educationHayes High develops School the whole staff, parents and alumnae Place: Cardinal 650 Grand Hayes HighConcourse School 650 Grandperson Concourse spiritually, intellectually, committed to achieving BROTHERHOODFor more info contact Craig Joseph at 718-292-6100 x 187 or visit www.cardinalhayes.org emotionally, socially and excellence in education. We For more info contact Craig Joseph BROTHERHOODat 718-292-6100 650 Grand x 187 Concourse or visit www.cardinalhayes.org BROTHERHOOD Bronx, NY 10451 Bronx, NYphysically. 10451 EveryOPEN student has continuallyHOUSE challenge our Bronx, NY 10451 unique talents that should students to become productive CONNECTED be developedTime: to their 10am-1pm fullest members of society who will For more info contact Craig Joseph at 718-292-6100 x 187 or visit www.cardinalhayes.orgpotential. Every student can conduct themselves with For more infoFor contact more info Craig contact Joseph Craig Joseph at 718-292-6100 at 718-292-6100 x 187187 or or visit visit www.cardinalhayes.org www.cardinalhayes.org become a life-longDate: learner. October 15threligious and moral integrity in Every studentPlace: must contribute Cardinal Hayes HighContinued School on page 18 16 bronx/riverdale Family • October 2017 Special 650 Grand Advertising Concourse Section BROTHERHOOD Bronx, NY 10451
For more info contact Craig Joseph at 718-292-6100 x 187 or visit www.cardinalhayes.org Saint Raymond Academy for Girls OPEN HOUSE Friday, October 13, 2017 from 5-8pm FORDHAM PREP Jesuit Education is Faith, Scholarship & Service OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, OCT. 29TH FROM 1-4 PM Students may pre-register on our website www.fordhamprep.org/admissions Learn more about our TACHS code: 220 curriculum, Global Education program, scholarships, All Prospective For more information contact and fi nancial aid Students 718-824-4220 And Their Parents Located on the Rose Hill Campus adjacent to ext. 1052 or Fordham University and the Botanical Gardens Are Welcome! [email protected] www.fordhamprep.org A Community of 1725 Castle Hill Avenue Commitment, Faith, [email protected] Bronx, NY 10462 441 East Fordham Road • Bronx, NY 10458 Respect & Learning www.saintraymondacademy.org
CARDINAL SPELLMAN HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE October 22, 2017 – 11am-3pm
• Co-educational, Roman Catholic, College Preparatory High School (accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the NYS Board of Regents) • College Credit, Advanced Placement, Regents, Honors and Elective Courses • SMART Boards and Computer Labs – Wireless Internet Access • 13-Acre Campus • Two All-Weather Athletic Fields and Track • Wide Range of Sports, Clubs and Activities • Free Tutoring Provided by National Honor Society • Homework Assignments Emailed Daily • Student Grades Available Online • Easily Accessible by Car and Public Transportation Where Boys and Girls with Dreams (Trains #2,4,5,6; Buses: Bx 16, 30, 31, Bee Line 60 and 61) Become Men and Women of Vision CARDINAL SPELLMAN HIGH SCHOOL One Cardinal Spellman Place, Bronx, NY 10466 TACHS CODE 303 (718) 881-8000 x 206 | Fax (718) 515-6615 | www.cardinalspellman.org
Special Advertising Section October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 17 Belong. Believe. Become. High School Choices CATHEDRAL HIGH SCHOOL Directory
OPEN HOUSE Continued from page 16 for life. The athletics program the pursuit of social justice. The includes 18 varsity sports school has been synonymous and offers over 60 clubs and with academic success since activities. Student diversity its founding in 1905. As a is one of the special features college preparatory school, of Fordham Prep, with the generations of young women school striving to include have been educated to meet qualified students of limited their scholastic potential. A financial resources by providing number of Honors and AP substantial financial assistance. courses are offered as well as Fordham Prep offers an Medical, Law, and Business education that emphasizes programs. Very competitive faith, scholarship and service; tuition with the graduates an education that shapes a earning millions of dollars in lifetime. college scholarships and grants, and going on to colleges such St. Raymond as Colombia, Fordham, NYU, Academy for Girls Yale and many more. 1725 Castle Hill Avenue Sunday, October 22, 2017 718-824-4220 Fordham Preparatory www.saintraymondacademy. (last tour starts at 2:30PM) 12-3pm School org 441 E. Fordham Road Our school is a small Catholic 350 East 56th Street, NYC 718-584-8367 or www. high school for young women fordhamprep.org/admissions in an urban setting. We www.cathedralhs.org | 212.688.1545 | TACHS #202 A Catholic, Jesuit, college inspire our students to reach preparatory school their God-given potential in a located on the campus of safe, supportive, and diverse Fordham University offering environment. Through a individualized study for state-approved curriculum highly motivated young men and extra-curricular activities, through honors and Advanced we encourage our students Placement courses beginning to seek and value truth. By Private/Independent in freshman year. Qualified empowering them with an students may also take classes education that promotes a at Fordham University. A commitment to excellence, self- School Guide program of retreats, days discipline and strong Christian of renewal and a 4-year values, we challenge our service program provide a students to become successful rich experience for students and accountable in a dynamic in preparation for college and society.
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October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 19 Ten tips for choosing a tutor for your child By Denise yearian how reading is kind of hard sometimes? Others go with a tutoring center. Still We are going to find someone who can others opt for an online service. utors offer a wealth of educational help you.” When choosing a setting — either resources for students who need Most students don’t like to struggle, small group or one-on-one instruction T remedial work, as well as for those so if your child is aware that there is a — determine which is the best fit for who want academic enrichment and problem, he may be more likely to want your child. maintenance. help. Even so, expect apprehension and If you choose a group setting, find out To choose the right tutor for your child, offer encouragement. the maximum number of students per consider these 10 tips: class. Convenient location is important, 2. Ponder priorities too. Studies show that more frequent 1. Pitch and persuade There is no one-size-fits-all when it tutoring sessions yield greater results. Before searching for a tutor, discuss comes to tutoring. It depends on your When it comes to cost, bear in mind that it with your child to get his buy in. Keep child’s needs, setting, convenience, and one-on-one tutoring may be more costly the conversation positive — “You know cost. Some people choose a private tutor. than group sessions and in-home tutor-
20 bronx/riverdale Family • October 2017 Questions to ask when choosing a tutor ing more expensive than traveling to a • What age do you tutor? center. • Is it for remedial work only? Signs your child Or do you do enrichment and needs a tutor 3. Reach for maintenance, too? There are a number of indications recommendations • What subjects do you offer? a child needs a tutor. If you see Begin your search by asking your • Do you have summer programs? any one of the following signs, your child’s teacher, principal, guidance coun- • Can my child go during school child may be a good candidate for selor, or others within the school unit. hours? tutoring: Some school districts have a list of tu- • Do you offer diagnostic testing? • Doesn’t want to go to school. tors and are willing to make recommen- Is it required? • Difficulty doing homework. dations. • Do you teach in small group • Gaps in learning. Also, check ads in your local parent- sessions or one-on-one? • Poor test grades. ing magazine or newspaper. Other par- • Where does tutoring take place? • Hiding test scores from parents. ents are a good resource, too. Is there • What qualifications do you have? • Teacher reports missing someone they have had success with? • What if my child has a personal assignments. problem with the tutor, can I get • Unable to keep up. 4. Check credentials another one? • Multiple wrong answers. Find out if the tutor has experience • How often is the child required • Unfinished assignments. teaching the subject your child needs help to go? • Frustration and possibly tears. with. Although the instructor may not be • Can you work sessions • Decreased self confidence. credentialed for your child’s grade level, around my family’s • Parents are frustrated and it’s a good idea to find one who holds schedule? don’t know how to help. a college degree and has completed a • How often will I receive Top tutor training program. This will ensure progress reports? Will he understands educational theory, in- they be written or structional strategies, and remedial ap- verbal? Tips Information proaches. • What is the duration of the helpful to Graduate students with strong con- contract? your tutor tent knowledge may be a good option, • How much do you charge? To equip your tutor in understand- too. Equally important is experience and • Are there any hidden fees? ing your child better, consider shar- teaching style. Ask if the tutor has taught ing the following information: children of similar age and learning style • What motivates your child. as your child. Likewise, consider person- ent, and child. • Whether or not he likes school. ality and attitude. Is he patient, upbeat, Teachers and tutors are aware of what • What his favorite and least and encouraging? Is he congenial with the goals should be, but parents know favorite subjects are. children? their child best and should be involved • How good his memory is. in the goal-setting process. • How he feels about being 5. Tally the track record It’s ideal if the tutor and teacher work tutored. Equally important to check references toward a common goal and communi- • School work samples. and track record. Does the tutor you are cate regularly to reinforce each other’s • Teacher’s contact information. considering have satisfaction surveys techniques. • How your child feels about from past parents and students that The teacher may also be willing to standardized tests. Whether prove he has helped them raise test give feedback on your child’s progress in he gets anxious. What his past scores, improve classroom grades, or ex- the classroom. scores were. perience better homework completion? • If he has specific organizational 8. Request progress reports or study skill issues. 6. Time it right Many tutors offer periodic progress re- Although extracurricular activities ports and will check off goals and redefine and parents’ work schedules often domi- them, if necessary. Ask for a sample of 10. Show support nate the clock, try to be flexible so tutor- progress reports to see if they are clear Remember, parents play an important ing sessions are held at a time when your and helpful. Also inquire how often reports role in the whole learning process, so child is most open to learning. Some stu- will be given. look for practical ways to support your dents need a 30- to 40-minute break after child’s academic endeavors. school, but if you give other kids that 9. View policies At the end of each tutoring session, same down time, it will be a battle to get Clarify policies before signing on the find out what he is expected to do before them to work. dotted line. Some tutors charge clients if the next one — whether it’s memorizing Know what timing works best for your an appointment is canceled without a 24- his multiplication facts or completing child and adjust your schedule accord- hour notice. Others have detailed poli- all of his classroom assignments — and ingly. cies for scheduling makeup sessions. couple those learning efforts at home. Also ask about substitutes. How much Denise Yearian is a former educator and 7. Collaborate on goals say will you have in who teaches your editor of two parenting magazines, and the When formulating tutoring goals, get child, in the event your tutor is out due mother of three children and four grandchil- everyone on board — teacher, tutor, par- to illness? dren.
October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 21 The right way to clean How instilling a tidying habit now will pay a lifetime of dividends
By Allison Plitt Cleaning is a life skill Ward believes there are many self-help o you have a 5-year-old son who books on the market these days, because takes all the things out of his toy “parents aren’t teaching children the life D box to get his favorite model car skills they need to cope with everyday and then walks out of the room with it, situations.” According to the only re- leaving the other toys on the floor? search study she mentions in her book, Or do you have an 11-year-old daughter the sooner you teach your child to clean who leaves her dirty clothes all over her up after himself, the better. room, disregarding her laundry basket? In the study, when a 4-year-old was Parents need to Or perhaps you have a 16-year-old son asked to do a task, he was more willing show children how a chore is done so who plays ice hockey and leaves his equip- to cooperate than when a 10-year-old was that children understand what is expected ment and gear in his room when he isn’t asked to do a chore for the first time. The of them. By using the appropriate clean- playing, which creates such an incredible 10-year-old felt he was being asked to do ing equipment and products, parents can stench that everyone in the family keeps something he didn’t want to do. If he had demonstrate themselves how to clean an his door closed? started doing chores at the age of four, he area thoroughly from beginning to end. If any of these situations sound similar wouldn’t even be questioning why he was Ward also recommends parents purchase to what is happening in your home, then I being asked. pretty cleaning tools with bright colors recommend you read “Teaching Children Parents can yell at their kids to do that kids would enjoy using. to Clean” by Schar Ward. Before becom- chores or make excuses for their kids not Ward encourages parents to let their ing an author, Ward started her career as to do them such as, “The children are too children know the “personal benefits” of a professional housecleaner. In 1973 she little” or “The children have homework.” being neat and clean. They can say things began a small residential cleaning service One of the best ways for kids to learn how to their kids like, “Your toys last longer that turned into the corporation Domestic to clean is by watching their parents. “If when they are taken care of” or “You can Engineering. you complain about housework and ne- find things easier.” Ward believes that her childhood in- glect your home, they will do the same,” Suggesting that parents make cleaning stilled in her “many years ago, a passion Ward advises. “Children pay attention to up the house a team effort, Ward says the for cleaning.” While she grew up on a farm what you do.” family should allow for a certain amount in Minnesota, her parents produced their of time each week to do chores together. own food, and her mother made the fam- Demonstrate vs. criticize For example, on a Saturday morning, each ily’s clothes and rugs. As far as results are concerned, Ward family member receives a list of chores to “We were poor people, but as a child, says that parents should never criticize do and the same allotted amount of time in I never realized it, because I always had their child’s efforts, especially in public. which to do it. food, clothes, a home, and parents who Instead, parent and child should have a loved me,” Ward recounts. discussion about how to do something cor- Healthier home That idea of responsibility and self-suf- rectly and then have the parent lead the Instead of buying cleaning products ficiency is a pervasive theme throughout child in redoing the chore. with harmful fumes that could poison the book. Ward believes parents can teach When teaching skills to their children, kids or pets when ingested, Ward explains young children to clean by immersing parents should not make their tone “con- how to create natural cleaning products them in games and imaginative play. For descending, and always try to explain the by using baking soda, white vinegar, liq- older children, Ward thinks parents can benefits of doing something a certain way.” uid Castille soap, Murphy’s Oil Soap, club motivate their kids to clean by praising Ward gives the example of clothes needing soda, Borax, and pure essential oils. their efforts and giving them an allowance to be separated before washing “to prevent “There are over 17,000 petrochemicals or non-monetary privileges. colors from bleeding onto other clothes.” available for home use and only 30 percent
22 bronx/riverdale Family • October 2017 have been tested for their effects on human Since the book can be read by kids ages fish tank, gerbil cage, or cat litter. health and the environment,” warns Ward. 10 and older, it is easy for parents to have At the end of the book is a list of games Not only have people found that their al- their child read the book, which gives in- that parents can play with their kids to lergy symptoms improve dramatically by structions in numeric order for cleaning help them complete their chores. For ex- switching to natural cleaners, but these all- each room. ample, Ward explains one game where natural solutions can be used on multiple At the end of each chapter is a chart parents place treats or small toys in plastic surfaces, saving space and money. that the parent can check off to ensure bags in their child’s room. Then the par- The cleaning process could then be- that every part of the room is clean and ent tells his child that he has hidden four come an at-home adventure for the whole can assign a letter grade to their child’s secret “treasures” in his room and that he family. Both parents and children could work. must clean his room to find them. After pretend they are scientists or magicians At the top of the chart is an area where the child shows their parents the plastic creating magical potions to make their the parent can let their child know how bags he has found, the parent inspects the home sparkling clean. much they earned for their chore. room, and if it is clean, rewards their kid Another environmentally friendly tip Included in the book are daily, weekly, with treasures. Ward recommends is to use old cotton and and monthly chore charts for kids of Ward, however, makes clear that clean- flannel sheets and terry cloth towels and different age groups. Ward also lets the ing isn’t really about games and treats. cut them into pieces for cleaning cloths. parents know where they can find these She mentions that the first thing a new By “repurposing” these items, the family chore charts online to download and Navy Seal is taught is how to make his bed avoids using disposable cleaning wipes print out for themselves. correctly and first thing in the morning. and paper towels, which will save them Ward devotes chapters to teaching chil- After describing this customary habit to money. Ward also suggests using washable dren to make a bed, do the laundry, clean her readers, she adds, “Teaching yourself microfiber cloths. up a spill on the carpet, put sports equip- to do one thing right every day, leads to ment away in a closet or basement, and doing another thing right, and the list just Comprehensive checklist wash dishes by hand to avoid the expense keeps on growing.” Furthermore, the book devotes chap- of using a dishwasher. She even instructs Allison Plitt lives in Queens with her daugh- ters to cleaning every room of the house. kids on how to clean up a pet’s area, like a ter.
October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 23 Calendaroctober
Stomp your feet and get into the rhythm human struggles, and longing for a better at the South African Festival of Dance at life. These communicative dances have African the Lehman Center for Performing Arts become an important part of restoring, on Oct. 8. revitalizing, and preserving South African Two dynamic dance companies — the Culture. rhythms Gumboots and Pantsula Dance — share South African Festival of Dance on Oct. the stage for a pulsating, rhythm-filled 8 at 4 pm. Tickets range from $25 to $45, evening of urban street dance. Featuring and $10 for children for any seat. 20 dancers with live musicians, these com- Lehman Center for the Performing Arts [250 panies use dance to respond to cultural Bedford Park Boulevard West in Fordham and political issues in their communities Manor, (718) 960–8833, www.LehmanCenter. by conveying real-life stories of hard work, org].
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Sun, Oct. 1 In The Bronx Family Art Project – Mapping the Bronx: Wave Hill Garden and Cultural Center, 675 W. 252nd St. (718) 549–3200; www.wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; Free with admission to grounds: $8 adults, $4 students. Visiting artist Francisco Donoso, exhibit- ing in Call and Response, the fall exhibition in Glyndor Gallery, works with the visual language of cartography and abstraction to make multi-layered artworks. Using re- cycled maps and printmaking, create in- dividual collages or join in a collaborative Gardens get spooky map installation highlighting Bronx green spaces — like Wave Hill. Gorgeous gourds, plump pumpkins, And on weekends there are live animal Fall Migration: Van Cortlandt Nature and scary scarecrows — oh my! Come demonstrations of the season’s creepy Center, W. 246th Street at Broadway; (718) to the New York Botanical Gardens now critters, including bats, reptiles, and 548–0912; www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers; 10 through Oct. 31 and visit the Scarecrow more. am to 11:30 am; Free. and Pumpkin Gardens. Scarecrows and Pumpkins, now New York City is home to an amazing Add fun to the spooky season by vis- through Oct. 31; Tuesdays through Fri- abundance of wildlife. Our Urban Park iting the Everett Children’s Adventure days, 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm; Saturdays Rangers will guide you to the best wild- Garden. and Sundays, 10 am to 5:30 pm. Tickets life viewing spots in the urban jungle. We Eye-popping pumpkins, spooky are $28 for adults and $12 for children; offer birding programs throughout the year and our Exploration Series focuses on scarecrows, and plenty of family fun reservations not required. unique wildlife viewing opportunities dur- make this a superior seasonal outdoor New York Botanical Garden [2900 ing particular seasons. To enhance your outing! There are guided activities for Southern Blvd. in Fordham Manor, (718) experience, we encourage you to bring kids, including a puppet playhouse. 817–8779; www.nybg.org]. binoculars and field guides, or ask a park ranger to borrow a pair. Van Cortlandt Manor, 535 South River- 655 W. 34th St. and 11th Avenue, Manhat- Further Afield side, Westchester; (914) 631–8200; www. tan; www.newyorkcomiccon.com/Home; Rise Up Against Addiction 5K 2017: hudsonvalley.org; 6:30 pm; $20 adults, $17 Noon; $45 per day; per person. Pier 84, W. 44th Street and 12th Avenue, children. New York Comic Con, the East Coast’s Manhattan; https://5knewyork.shatter- A bright and blazing display of more biggest and most exciting popular culture proofgetinvolved.org; 8:30 am. than 7,000 hand-carved illuminated jack- convention, is back. The show will feature Shatterproof, a national nonprofit dedi- o’-lanterns set the Halloween season on events, panels, screenings and more at the cated to ending the stigma of addiction, fire! These artfully carved pumpkins por- Javits Center, Madison Square Garden, the will host a 5K Run/Walk as part of its Rise tray flying ghosts, spider webs, snakes, and Hammerstein Ballroom and other spaces Up Against Addiction campaign. Partici- monsters, as well as a Pumpkin Promenade across New York City. Throughout the pants are invited to run/walk 5 kilometers and a Pumpkin Zee Bridge! It’s a fabulous convention fans can expect programming to show support for anyone who has been display to view while strolling through this from AMC’s “The Walking Dead,” Univer- touched by addiction and bring the dis- historic riverside landscape. sal’s “Pacific Rim: Uprising” featuring John ease of addiction into the light. Guests will Boyega and Scott Eastwood, “Marvel’s have the opportunity to engage in activi- Thurs, Oct. 5 Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” and more. Fans will ties geared towards uniting the community also have a chance to interact with some and promoting positive change. Further Afield of the biggest names in entertainment in- The Great Jack-O’-Lantern Blaze: New York Comic Con: Javits Center, cluding William Shatner, Mark Hamill, Fe-
October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 25 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar
licity Jones, and more Keanu Reeves, John Krasinski, Rosario Dawson and more! The Great Jack-O’-Lantern Blaze: 6:30 pm. Van Cortlandt Manor. See Sun- Magic tales day, Oct. 1. It’s a day of wizards, witches, war- riors and fun at a book signing at the Fri, Oct. 6 Thalia Kids’ Book Club on Oct. 15. Cressida Cowell, the author of “How In The Bronx to Train Your Dragon,” presents her First Friday: Bartow-Pell Mansion Mu- enchanting new novel, an exciting ad- seum, 895 Shore Rd. (718) 885–1461; www.bartowpellmansionmuseum.org; venture filled with giants, witches, 5:30 pm; $12 ($10 seniors & students; Free wizards, warriors, and the mysterious for members). wildwoods. Sultry songstress Queen Esther is back Cowell will be joined by author Claire for an encore performance! Come listen Legrand (“Foxheart”) for an afternoon to her acclaimed interpretations of Billie of conversation, art, fun activities, and Holiday’s rarely heard songs, together with a reading from “The Wizards of Once!” the Jeremy Bacon trio! Enjoy the music, ex- Appropriate for children 8 to 12-years- plore the museum, and stroll the garden; old. light refreshments available. The trolley makes an hourly loop starting at 5:25 pm Cressida Cowell at the Thalia Kids’ from the 6 train Pelham Bay Park subway Book Club, Oct. 15 at 12 pm; Admission station to the museum to City Island. Reg- $17, $14 for members. istration requested. Leonard Nimoy Thalia [2537 Broadway Chess Night: Virginia Park, Westchester at W. 94th Street on the Upper West Side; Avenue and White Plains Road; (212) 360– (212) 316–4962; www.symphonyspace.org] 8114; 6 pm to 8 pm; Free. Enjoy chess night in Virginia Park in col- laboration with the public artwork Day- for family and adults 10 years and older. lighting by Lovie Pignata and Loving the Sun, Oct. 8 Children under the age of 18 must be ac- Bronx. Lovie Pignata’s public art project In The Bronx activates a blacktop with a bold, painted companied by their parent or legal guard- replica of the nearby Bronx River, highlight- ian to sign waiver, but they can ride with Family Art Project: Raptors in the Au- ing the importance of this waterway. She group. Adults must be present to sign tumn Sky: 10 am–1 pm. Wave Hill Garden waiver and get fitted for a bicycle helmet. has also installed retired canoes from local and Cultural Center. See Saturday, Oct. 7. non-profits, which are retrofitted with Family Art Project: Raptors in the Au- seating, chessboards, planters, and way- tumn Sky: Wave Hill Garden and Cultural Junior Sailing Program: City Island finding signage. Center, 675 W. 252nd St. (718) 549–3200; Yacht Club, 63 Pilot St.; (718) 855–2487; Rock hunting and painting at Bronx www.wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; Free [email protected]; www.city- Rocks: Virginia Park, 1878 Cross Bronx Ex- with admission to grounds, $8 adults, $4 islandyc.org; Noon; Free. pressway and Westchester Avenue; www. students. Learn about the 2018 summer program facebook.com/groups/133894070515111; 6 Make a movable raptor puppet to re- pm to 8 pm; Free. for children ages 8–16. Tour the facility, semble the hawks migrating above the Participants are encourage to create meet the team, and learn about curriculum Hudson River. If the wind cooperates, the and paint a rock, then rehide it. So far the and safety for this program. Facebook group is up to more than 250 puppets can fly overhead in a beautiful South African Festival of Dance: members. The purpose of the rock hunting outdoor group soar. Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, group is to encourage families to unplug, Fall Harvest Festival: Bartow-Pell explore their borough, and meet mem- Mansion Museum, 895 Shore Rd. (718) 250 Bedford Park Boulevard West; (718) bers of the community. There will also be 885–1461; www.bartowpellmansionmu- 960–8833; www.LehmanCenter.org; 4 pm; chances for members to paint their rocks seum.org; Noon to 4 pm; $8 ($6 seniors/ $25–$45 ($10 children any seat). together every Friday from 6 to 8 pm in students; free children under 3). Two dynamic dance companies, the Virginia Park, as part of Game Night. Come celebrate autumn in the park at Gumboots and Pantsula Dance, share the Further Afield the mansion! The museum is hosting an stage for a pulsating, rhythm-filled evening New York Comic Con: Noon. Javits indoor and outdoor festival of fall delights of urban street dance. Featuring 20 danc- Center. See Thursday, Oct. 5. for all ages. There will be music, crafts, ers with live musicians, these companies games, and seasonal treats — including use dance to respond to cultural and politi- fresh cider from our outdoor press. Help Sat, Oct. 7 cal issues in their communities by convey- harvest the season’s final bounty, ride a In The Bronx horse-drawn wagon, and pick your own ing real-life stories of hard work, human Motion Bike Ride: Claremont Neighbor- gourd from our pop-up pumpkin patch. struggles, and longing for a better life. hood Center, 489 E. 169th St. and Third Further Afield Avenue; (347) 261–1764; www.nycgov- Further Afield parks.org; 10 am to noon; Free. New York Comic Con: Noon. Javits New York Comic Con: Noon. Javits Bike riding classes and bike skills training Center. See Thursday, Oct. 5. Center. See Thursday, Oct. 5.
26 bronx/riverdale Family • October 2017 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar
Fri, Oct. 13 In The Bronx Photo Prop Night: Virginia Park, Westchester Avenue and White Plains Road; (212) 360–8114; 6 pm to 8 pm; Free. Enjoy an evening of photo taking with public art and props in Virginia Park in col- laboration with the public artwork Day- lighting by Lovie Pignata and Loving the Bronx. Rock hunting and painting at Bronx Rocks: 6 pm to 8 pm. Virginia Park. See Friday, Oct. 6.
Sat, Oct. 14 In The Bronx Estuary Paddle: Starlight Docks at Star- light Park, E. 172nd Street and W. Farm Road; (718) 430–4665; 10 am to 3 pm; $30 with registration. Join the Bronx River Alliance on a 2.5- mile paddling adventure and explore the estuary sections of the Bronx River, start- ing at Starlight Park near floating docks and ending at either Concrete Plant Park or back at Starlight Park (depending on safety All’s fair in Fort Tryon Park conditions). For older children accompa- nied by an adult companion. Damsels in distress, knights in shin- wide variety of period items, food, and ing armor, and jugglers and jesters de- drink, and artisans will demonstrate Motion Bike Ride: 10 am to noon. Cla- remont Neighborhood Center. See Satur- scend on Fort Tryon Park on Oct. 1 for their crafts. day, Oct. 7. the Medieval Festival. Medieval Festival, Oct. 1 from 11:30 Take a trip back in time and experi- am to 6 pm. Admission is free. Family Art Project – October Trea- ence the excitement of jousting and Fort Tryon Park [Margaret Corbin sures: Wave Hill Garden and Cultural juggling. Drive between Henry Hudson Parkway Center, 675 W. 252nd St. (718) 549–3200; www.wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; Free Costumed vendors and characters and Broadway in Inwood, (212) 795–1388; with admission to grounds, $8 adults, $4 stroll through the grounds to sell a www.nycgovparks.org]. students. Stroll along Wave Hill’s Conifer Slope or venture to the lower woodland to see the Open House New York: Noon to 4 pm. Family Art Project – Leaf Crowns treasures autumn trees have laid upon the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum. See Satur- and Fairy Houses: Wave Hill Garden grounds. Use your findings, along with day, Oct. 14. and Cultural Center, 675 W. 252nd St. buttons, small stones, and a bit of sparkle, (718) 549–3200; www.wavehill.org; 10am– to decorate a recycled box or metal tin, a 1pm; Free with admission to grounds, $8 home for your growing nature collection. Wed, Oct. 18 adults, $4 students. Open House New York: Bartow-Pell Further Afield Sit with your wee ones and listen to sto- ries of the “people of the mounds,” the Mansion Museum, 895 Shore Rd. (718) The Great Jack-O’-Lantern Blaze: 885–1461; www.bartowpellmansionmu- supernatural race of fairies or elves found 6:30 pm. Van Cortlandt Manor. See Sun- in Celtic mythology, as told by guest sto- seum.org; Noon to 4 pm; free. day, Oct. 1. The museum unlocks the doors of New ryteller Marianne McShane and her blue harp. Then travel into Wave Hill’s wood- York’s most important buildings, offering land, and, using only natural materials and an extraordinary opportunity to experi- Fri, Oct. 20 a bit of jute twine, create your own tiny, ence the rich architectural heritage in all In The Bronx fairy-sized dwelling using found sticks, five boroughs. On both days the museum leaves, moss and bark, or string together a guides will take visitors through the man- Rock hunting and painting at Bronx series of autumn leaves to form a fall wand sion and the carriage house, highlighting Rocks: 6 pm to 8 pm. Virginia Park. See Friday, Oct. 6. or crown — and behold the magic! At 11 the splendid Greek Revival interiors. am and at noon, dont’ miss guest musi- cians Terry McCann and Stephen Gara of- Sun, Oct. 15 Sat, Oct. 21 fering a short concert of Irish jigs, reels, and songs. In The Bronx In The Bronx Family Art Project: October Treasures: Motion Bike Ride: 10 am to noon. Cla- Further Afield 10 am–1 pm. Wave Hill Garden and Cul- remont Neighborhood Center. See Satur- The Celeberation Team!: Peter Jay tural Center. See Saturday, Oct. 14. day, Oct. 7. Sharp Theatre, 155 W. 65th St. at West
October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 27 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar
End Avenue, Manhattan; (212) 864–5400; Fri, Oct. 27 Sun, Oct. 29 www.symphonyspace.org; 2 pm; $17 ($14 members). In The Bronx In The Bronx See the magic and spectacle of more Day of the Dead Arts and Crafts: Family Art Project – Spider Web than 100 children dancing their hearts out, Virginia Park, 1878 Cross Bronx Expressway Fashion: 10 am–1 pm. Wave Hill Garden in one of the highest energy performances and Westchester Avenue; www.facebook. and Cultural Center. See Saturday, Oct. 28. you will ever witness! National Dance In- com/groups/133894070515111; 6 pm to 8 Wave stitute’s Celebration Team will perform pm; Free. Spider Appreciation day!: excerpts from its 2017 Event of the Year, Hill Garden and Cultural Center, 675 W. Enjoy an evening of Day of the Dead arts 252nd St. (718) 549–3200; www.wavehill. “Harlem Night Song,” directed by Bianca and crafts. Johnson. The talented Celebration Team org; 1 pm to 3 pm; Free with admission to dancers are kids ages 9 to 15, drawn from Haunted Mansion: Bartow-Pell Mansion grounds, $8 adults, $4 students. schools throughout the New York City Museum, 895 Shore Rd. (718) 885–1461; Halloween portrays our humble spiders metro area. www.bartowpellmansionmuseum.org; 7 as malevolent and deadly creatures, yet pm to 10 pm; $15 ($10 for children). most are perfectly harmless to humans. Meet the artist: Field 62–63 at Randall’s Come, if you dare, for a Halloween Beef up your arachnid I.Q. with local en- Island Park, Randall’s Island Park, Manhat- scare! Watch out for spirits and other tomologist Lawrence Forcella and observe tan; 311; www.nycgovparks.org; 2 pm to 3 creatures as you intrepidly make your way a collection of live and preserved spiders, pm; Free. through the mansion and grounds of Bar- from delicate orb-weavers to hairy, hulking Join Randall’s Island Park Alliance’s se- tow-Pell. Halloween treats and goodies will tarantulas. Ages 6 and older welcome with lected 2017 FLOW artist Rose DeSiano to be available for purchase in the conserva- an adult. take some photographs of your own! Dur- tory — if you survive! This event is pro- ing this event, you’ll learn about this year’s duced in partnership with the City Island FLOW art pieces, discuss some of Ran- Theater Group. Not recommended for chil- Tues, Oct. 31 dall’s Island’s history, and talk about pho- dren under 10 years old. Further Afield tographic composition and story-telling. The Great Jack-O’-Lantern Blaze: Bring your camera or camera phone (RIPA Sat, Oct. 28 6:30 pm. Van Cortlandt Manor. See Sun- will also offer a few instant film cameras to day, Oct. 1. borrow for the event) and spend the after- In The Bronx noon capturing images that you can take Motion Bike Ride: 10 am to noon. Cla- home with you. remont Neighborhood Center. See Satur- Long-running day, Oct. 7. In The Bronx Sun, Oct. 22 Family Art Project – Spider Web Nature’s Sculptures: New York Botani- In The Bronx Fashion: Wave Hill Garden and Cultural cal Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. at Ford- ham Road; (718) 817–8700; www.nybg. Family Art Project: Leaf Crowns and Center, 675 W. 252nd St. (718) 549–3200; org; Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am to 5:30 Fairy Houses: 10 am–1 pm. Wave Hill Gar- www.wavehill.org; 10 am–1 pm; Free pm, until Sun, Oct. 29; Free with All-Gar- den and Cultural Center. See Saturday, Oct. with admission to grounds, $8 adults, $4 den Pass. 21. students. Join Family Art Project Storyteller Rama Using Chihuly’s glass sculptures as a Acrobats of Tianjin: Lehman Center Mandel for tales about special spiders, in- foundation, kids can explore the shapes for the Performing Arts, 250 Bedford Park cluding the Itsy Bitsy Spider and Anansi and colors of plants in the Garden. Find in- Boulevard West; (718) 960–8833; www. the spider, the great folk hero and mischief spiration in the vivid colors and patterns of LehmanCenter.org; 4 pm; $25–$45 ($10 maker. Costume yourself in a web of mesh nature throughout the Garden’s landscape, children any seat). tulle and, with the twisty artistry of pipe and craft a habitat to house your own air One of the best acrobatic troupes from cleaners and bits of black felt and yarn, plant. China shows off its superior skill with thrill- welcome lots of little spiders. Sunday is Chihuly Exhibit: New York Botani- ing acrobatics, circus acts, illusions, and Spider Day! cal Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. (718) mesmerizing demonstrations of martial 817–8779; www.nybg.org; Tuesdays – Sun- arts. Accompanied by traditional Chinese Haunted Mansion: 7 pm to 10 pm. Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum. See Friday, days, 10 am–6 pm, until Sun, Oct. 29; $25 music, more than 100 acrobatic and mar- adults, $20 children. tial arts performers take the stage in a vi- Oct. 27. Artwork created by the world-renowned brant spectacle of aerial stunts, juggling Further Afield artist Dale Chihuly is on view at the New acts, contortion tricks, and feats of bal- York Botanical Garden, in a show that fea- ance that are guaranteed to dazzle and Nostalgia Ride: Green-Wood Cemetery, tures 20 installations and includes the art- delight. Fifth Avenue and 25th Street, Brooklyn; (718) 210–3080; www.green-wood.com; ists’ drawings and early works. The Gar- 4 pm; $50 ($25 child; $35, $ 20 museum den’s dramatic landscape becomes the liv- Thurs, Oct. 26 members). ing canvas for works showcasing Chihuly’s In The Bronx Take a trip into the past on our BMT signature shapes in brilliant colors. Standards and D-Type cars for an evening Pumpkin Painting: United We Stand Treetop Adventures: Bronx Zoo, 2300 ride to explore Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Southern Blvd. at Boston Road; (718) 220– Community Garden, 627 E. 137th St.; 5:30 Cemetery. During a three-hour layover, pm to 7 pm; Free. 5103; www.bronxzoo.com; Daily, appoint- enjoy a picnic dinner and take a guided ments between 10 am–5 pm; until Sun, Channel your inner pumpkin art- tour to learn the fascinating stories of ist at this creative painting session with Dec. 31; Climb: $64.95; Zip: $34.95 (plus Green-Wood’s permanent residents, in- admission). GreenThumb. Paint and pumpkins of all cluding baseball legends, politicians, art- sizes will be provided, and all families There are two new exciting experiences ists, entertainers, inventors, and Civil War to be had at the Bronx Zoo, and both are have to do is bring their creativity and generals. excitement! part of the Treetop Adventure Program.
28 bronx/riverdale Family • October 2017 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar
Free. Learn basic sign language for commu- nication. This class is open to staff, family members. and adults interested in learning sign language for communication. Further Afield Drones – Is the Sky the Limit?: In- trepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Pier 86 (46th Street and 12th Avenue), Manhat- tan; www.intrepidmuseum.org; Weekdays, 10 am to 5 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 am to 6 pm, until Sun, Dec. 3; $33 ($31 seniors; $24, children 5-12; Free children under 5 and military members). The exhibit explores pilotless aircraft and the history of drone technology. Visitors can fly actual drones and explore the use of drones in police and fire departments, fashion, and art. Discovery room: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at W. 79th Street, Manhattan; (212) 769–5200; www.amnh.org; Mondays – Thursdays, 1:30 pm to 5: 10 pm, Free with museum admission.
Marc Gersh Families, and especially children ages 5–12, can enjoy an interactive gateway to the wonders of the museum and a hands- Harvest time fun for all on, behind-the-scenes look at its science. Children, accompanied by adults, can ex- They have planted, they have Farm, and more fun fall activities! plore an array of artifacts and specimens, weeded, and they have nurtured — Additionally, join in for the Randall’s puzzles, and scientific challenges. Hunt for now it is time to reap the harvest at Island Chef Showdown! Local chefs will animals in a majestic two-story replica of the Randall’s Island Harvest Festival use ingredients from the farm to create an African baobab tree filled with speci- mens of birds, insects, reptiles, and small on Oct. 15. healthy and delicious food in the Urban mammals. Create your own collection of Each fall, Randall’s Island Park Alli- Farm Kitchen. minerals, skulls, or arthropods from a cabi- ance hosts its annual Harvest Festival Harvest Festival, Oct. 15 from noon net full of fascinating specimens. Gather that celebrates the bounty of the earth to 4 pm. Free and suitable for all ages. around an authentic Kwakiutl totem pole and the completion of another fruitful Randall’s Island Urban Farm (Wards carved at the Museum in 1992. Assemble season at the Urban Farm. Families Meadow Loop off Hell Gate Circle on Ran- a life-sized cast skeleton of Prestosuchus, are invited to enjoy live music, face dall’s Island, randallsisland.org/visit/ur- a 14-foot long reptile from the late Triassic painting, self-guided tours of the Urban ban-farm/). Period and handle real fossils. Track real- time earthquakes anywhere in the world on a three-drum seismograph and ex- plore the natural world with sophisticated Climb is an aerial adventure course consist- are live animal demonstrations of the sea- microscopes. ing of rope bridges, rope walks, ladders, son’s creepy critters, including bats, rep- wobbly bridges, and swinging elements. tiles, and more. Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Dis- There are various levels of difficulty. The covery Center Westchester: LEGO- Boo at the Zoo: Bronx Zoo, 2300 South- other adventure offered is Zipline, allowing LAND Discovery Center Westchester, 39 ern Blvd. at Boston Road; (718) 220–5103; guests to zip across the Bronx River 50 feet Fitzgerald St., Yonkers, Westchester; (866) www.bronxzoo.com; Saturdays and Sun- up in the air. 243–0770; website@legolanddiscovery- days, Noon to 4 pm, until Sun, Oct. 29; center.com; https://westchester.legolan- Scarecrows and Pumpkins: New York $36.95 ($26.95 child; $31.95 senior for to- ddiscoverycenter.com; Saturdays, 10 am to Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. tal experience ticket). (718) 817–8779; www.nybg.org; Tuesdays 9 pm, Sundays, 10 am to 7 pm, Sat, Oct. The annual tradition has upped its spook 7 – Sun, Oct. 29; Starting at $15.95 (free – Fridays, 1:30–5:30 pm, Saturdays and factor with a revamped Haunted Forest, Sundays, 10 am–5:30 pm, until Tues, Oct. children under 2). complete with lurking, crawling, and flying 31; $28 adults, $12 children. A ghoulishly good time is brewing at creepies; a Halloween hayride with scare- Add fun to the spooky season by visit- LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester crows, snakes, and spikers; and a special during Brick-or-Treat. Little ghosts and ing the Everett Children’s Adventure Gar- Halloween nature hike. den. Eye-popping pumpkins, spooky scare- mummies can experience Halloween every crows, and plenty of family fun make this Basic Sign Language: Poe Park Visitor weekend in October with spooktacular a superior seasonal outdoor outing! There Center at Poe Park, 2640 Grand Con- activities sure to please the entire family. are guided activities for kids including a course; (718) 365–5516; Wednesdays, Wear your Halloween costume and receive puppet playhouse. And on weekends there 10:30 am to 11:45 am, until Wed, Dec. 27; $5 off admission.
October 2017 • bronx/riverdale Family 29 HealtHy eating
Good sense eatinG Christine M. PaluMbo, rD
increases the amount of insulin in the Can a teen’s diet bloodstream, which turns on a hormonal response that promotes the production and secretion of sebum, aggravating acne. To reduce the glycemic load of your child’s cause breakouts? diet, encourage him to cut back on sugary beverages and energy drinks, as well as f you notice your teen spending more but rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish? foods high in refined carbohydrates such time than usual in front of the mirror, as pasta, cookies, candy, and cake. I it may be due to the discovery of his Dairy or her first pimple. The same hormones A number of studies point to dairy foods Fat that cause changes in height, shape, body as having an acne-stimulating effect in sus- A high fat diet — greasy pizza, anyone? hair and odor at the outset of puberty also ceptible individuals. It’s speculated that — was long thought to contribute to the influence your child’s complexion. Sadly, the hormones and bioactive compounds development of blemishes. And omega-3 the onset of blemishes can put a damper in milk may be the culprits. For example, fatty acids found in fatty fish are thought on your child’s self-image. one study out of the University of Oslo of as being beneficial. Yet the evidence The role of diet and acne has come full this year concluded that consuming dairy linking total fat or the type of fat is weak circle over the years. Medical guidelines is a possible contributing factor to acne in at this time. in the 1970s and before pointed to diet teens. In the three-year study, teenagers as a cause. Then in the 1980s, the der- who drank more than two glasses of milk Chocolate matology community downplayed diet, daily experienced worse acne. This one goes back several generations. primarily attributing acne to genetics Fat free milk is a greater culprit than The research suggests no correlation be- and hormonal changes. With a greater higher fat milk, possibly due to the addi- tween chocolate in the role of the devel- understanding of how diet may affect en- tional whey protein and casein added to opment or worsening of acne. If your teen docrine factors involved, today there is make the “thin” milk look less watery. Also, notices a reaction to chocolate, it may be a renewed appreciation of the diet-acne whey protein concentrates, commonly due to the other ingredients in it such as connection. found in popular sports supplements, may sugar, nuts, or milk. Generally speaking, in addition to ob- aggravate the severity of acne. taining enough sleep and keeping the What’s the connection? Researchers be- The best method of treating teenage skin clean, the best approach to good lieve that dairy products may increase sex skin problems may be “tincture of time,” skin is an overall varied and balanced hormones, which increase sebum produc- as many teens simply outgrow their skin diet. Yet there are certain dietary factors tion, leading to an increase in acne. For conditions as their hormones settle down. that may also have a significant impact on now, reducing or even eliminating them for Of course, if skin problems are severe or your teen’s skin. a month or so is worth a try. In that case, persist over a long period of time, speak- encourage your teen to look for alternative ing to a dermatologist is a good idea. american diet sources of both calcium and vitamin D. Christine Palumbo is a Naperville-registered It’s fascinating to note that the stan- dietitian nutritionist who is a new Fellow of the dardized American diet may be to blame. glycemic load American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Teens who live in primitive societies do There is compelling research to sup- Follow her on Twitter @PalumboRD, Facebook not experience breakouts. Perhaps this port a low-glycemic-load diet in minimiz- at Christine Palumbo Nutrition, or Chris@ is due to a diet low in processed foods, ing breakouts. A high glycemic load diet ChristinePalumbo.com.
30 bronx/riverdale Family • October 2017 Fall–Winter 2015–2016 NEW YORK FREE NEW YORK SPECIAL CHILD www.NYParenting.com SPECIAL CHILD The risks of misdiagnosis
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Starting Sept 13th - go to the Mall at Bay Plaza’s Facebook page and upload your Visit to Enter: 2 minute (or less) talent video via the link in the pinned post at the top of the page 10 Contestants will be selected to compete in the Talent Showcase “LIVE” at the Mall at Bay Plaza
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