FREE JULY 2017

Flying h igh in Pittsburgh What are we gonna do today,

MOM?

PRESCHOOL & CHILDCARE GUIDE

July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 1 what’s inside July 2017 • Volume 30 • Number 7

14 The costs 18 32 all about of Autism July

Boating adventures: Shore up for safe summer fun

cover story 9 departments What are we “ gonna do today, 4 ..... editor’s note The PA Promise for Children MOM?” 16 ..... education connection Summer vacation – not just for play features 18 ..... teens today Boating adventures – Shore up for safe 6 ..... Flying high in Pittsburgh summer fun 14 ..... The costs of Autism 30 ..... family health Tips for choosing a pediatrician 19 ..... Great Daddy-Daughter date destinations 32 ..... all about July 21 ..... Choosing the right preschool Calendar of events and activities 23 ..... Selecting daycare that works for you and your child special sections 27 ..... Do video games boost preschoolers brain power?

28 ..... Fine tuning fine motor skills community spotlight Preschool 5 ..... MyHouseCall.com – Sick? Injured? Stay in bed & Childcare Guide 20-29 Cover: Ann Krawczynski, daughter of John and Melissa Krawczynski of Hopewell Township. Cover Photo: TreyThomasImages 2 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 4 ..... editor’s note The PA Promise for Children 16 ..... education connection Summer vacation – not just for play 18 ..... teens today Boating adventures – Shore up for safe summer fun 30 ..... family health Tips for choosing a pediatrician 32 ..... all about July Calendar of events and activities

July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 3 editor’s note The PA Promise for Children

n today’s fast-paced, high-tech world, I do believe early learning has taken Ion a whole new persona. Children are now exposed to smart phones as well as computers way earlier – and they have demonstrated their ability by becom- ing savvy with swiping and using these devices. I find it a necessity to have a pass- and afford quality early learning, or meet- word on my phone now that my four and ing with your elected officials, you are a five-year-old grandsons grab any device champion for children. You can spend as and have proved they can do damage little as five minutes a month and have an with erasing apps and photos. When the impact! boys come to our home I quickly hit the Everyone can do something that helps office to turn computers off otherwise our young children reach their promise they can make my life crazy within a few through quality early education. Here moments of unsupervised access to our are a few ways you can be a children’s laptops. champion: The positive side of this scenario is devices are just one of many reasons that • Learn the facts – having some key children are learning new things at an facts about why quality early educa- earlier age these days. tion is important gives you the tools to “Quality early learning is crucial to our talk to anyone about it. children’s intellectual, social and emotion- • Become a LEARN partner – Local al development. The benefits that children Education and Resource Network and families experience from quality early (LEARN) partners help engage learning opportunities extend to all of families, support smooth transitions to our communities, making it possible for kindergarten, and educate community parents to work and build a stable family leaders about quality early education. structure for their children. In addition, • Talk to families about quality early by increasing our children’s success in learning – There are dozens of ways school and in life we will create a stronger in your personal and work life that you workforce and tax base. can help educate families about qual- Programs that increase access to ity early learning. When you educate quality early learning, such as those a parent, they will educate other administered by Pennsylvania’s Office of parents, and so on, and so on…. Child Development and Early Learning • Build the case – learn the steps to (OCDEL) and its partners, are a vital part effectively building the case for quality of Pennsylvania’s overall goal to make the early education to community leaders. commonwealth an attractive place to live Ask your employer to share some of and work,” according to the Pennsylvania our PA’s Promise materials with their Promise for Children. employees and customers. Do you know about the PA Promise • Share your voice – share individual for Children? It is a coordinated statewide stories of how quality child care/early campaign to raise awareness about the learning has made a difference. You value of quality early learning for all of our can tell your story to families, teach- young children and build responsibility ers, school leaders, legislators and among every Pennsylvanian for the early other elected officials, and the media. learning of the young children in their lives. continued on page 36 You can get involved… Become a Children’s Champion “We live in a world in which we need to share responsibility. It’s easy to say ‘It’s not my child, not my community, not my world, not my problem.’ Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes.” — Fred Rogers When you know how important quality early learning is to a child’s – and our commonwealth’s – future, you need to act. Whether you are choosing a qual- ity early learning program for your child, counseling a friend on making good early learning choices, encouraging your company to help their employees find

4 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT Health SPONSORED CONTENT Sick? Injured? Stay in bed By MyHouseCall

Life is hectic. Between work, This service is great for busy parents. school, and dozens of social When your child becomes sick it affects the obligations, who has time to drive to whole family. By using the app you can avoid and wait in a doctors office? Now travel time, waiting room time, and being there is a new medical service to help around other sick individuals. Who wants to out……MyHouseCall. go in to the doctors for a rash and then come MyHouseCall is an app based out with the Flu? service that connects anyone in Our goal is for individuals to use the Pennsylvania for either a house call telemedicine ($39) option first because of (in-person) or a telemedicine (video) its low cost and rapid response time. Ten visit with the touch of a button. House minutes or less is typical. However, we have a calls are currently available in Allegheny back up house call ($99) option if you are too County while the telemedicine is ill or your symptoms are too complex to be statewide in Pennsylvania. The app treated via telemedicine. Common medical is free to download in the Apple conditions that can be seen via telemedicine or Google Play store. After you are sinus infections, rashes, pink eye, bladder download the app simply enter your infections etc. The house call is used for all demographics and medical history and other acute healthcare needs. you are ready to be seen! This app will save your family a lot of time The apps co-founders are Michael Cole, Dr. Stephen and stress. Download the app MyHouseCall Ritz, Dr. Chris Fleissner, and Eric Cole. The central vision of app today and take the headache out of the founders for the app is to make care more convenient healthcare. while still being affordable. Current trends in service industries are for more convenient options……..and the founders believe healthcare is ripe for this change also. The MyHouseCall.net medical team on standby consists of physicians and nurse practitioners. They are all licensed, board certified, and personally hand picked by the founders.

July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 5 Flying high in Pittsburgh By Ann K. Howley don’t know why I had agreed to climb bouldering. “Bouldering started in the wil- the rock wall at the Carnegie Science derness,” says co-owner Alex Bernstein. ICenter. Although the attendant had “People just climbed over rocks.” safely tethered me to a rope on the easi- At ASCEND, kids of all ages get to est wall and I was only three feet above climb up and over fake rocks that present the floor, my legs were shaking in terror. varying degrees of difficulty. It makes for How on earth was I going to drum up a great family activity because part of the the courage to scale 25 feet? I glanced fun of bouldering is to work together to right and saw my ten-year-old son, John, figure out how to climb, cross and com- scamper up the intermediate wall like plete the routes. a monkey climbing a banana tree. He dinged the bell on top, rappelled down, Sky Zone Trampoline Park and then had the nerve to look at me and Monroeville and Leetsdale - skyzone.com say, “that was easy.” If playing dodgeball and shooting a Okay. So heights aren’t my thing. basketball through a hoop is fun, how Go Ape But what kid doesn’t like to climb, jump, about doing it while jumping on a trampo- North Park - goape.com/Locations/Penn- swing and fly through the air? Here are line? Or try jumping from a trampoline into sylvania/Pittsburgh some fun places in Pittsburgh to experi- a pit with foam cubes. That’s Sky Zone, Go Ape is a treetop obstacle course ence a new kind of play adventure. a fun zone of wall-to-wall bouncing. Us- that includes Tarzan swings, zip lines and ing nets and pads to cordon off various a varied collection of ropes, boards and ASCEND Pittsburgh sections, court monitors, who are like South Side - ascendpgh.com planks that force you to use your wits to life guards in the trampoline world, keep get from one platform to the next. Kids This indoor rock climbing gym, lo- children separated by size and age at all cated in the old Duquesne Brewery build- must be ten years old and at least 55 times. This safety consideration should inches tall to participate and one adult ing on the South Side, is the new kid on be a relief to parents, who don’t have to the block. With an amazing panoramic must supervise up to two 10-15 year worry about big kids jumping with the olds. Before climbing into the canopy, view of the Pittsburgh skyline, the 27,000 little ones. square foot gym features the requisite all participants must attend a 30-minute climbing walls with ropes and belays. safety briefing to learn how to use the However, the big thing at ASCEND is harnesses, pulleys and carabiners. Don’t

6 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 underestimate the importance of this briefing because once on the course, you are responsible for yourself and your kids to make sure the carabiners are detached and reattached at every new obstacle. The Treetop Junior course, for those ages three and up and at least 39 inches tall, also requires adult supervision, but on this course, the participants are attached to the safety system the whole time from the first climb to the last zip line. Carnegie Science Center SportsWorks North Shore - carnegiesciencecenter.org/ exhibits/highmark-sportsworks In addition to having fun, you can always expect to learn something at the Carnegie Science Center. At SportsWorks, your child has the oppor-

tunity to learn about physics and kinetic energy by becoming a human yo-yo, do- ing trampoline flips while wearing a bun- gee harness and riding a unicycle high above the gallery. Of course, there’s also my nemesis, the 25-foot climbing wall. To be honest, I was most looking forward to the Skateboard Stability chal- lenge, where you ‘hang ten’ on a skate- board and balance as long as possible without letting either end of the board touch the ground. Some of us moms have a lower (ahem!) center of gravity that gives us an advantage. I did pretty well, balancing for more than a minute before touching the ground. But when John stepped on the skateboard, he stood so still, the board barely wobbled. When, after five effortless minutes, he started to roll his eyes because he was bored, I made him get off to give somebody else a chance. Show off. n

Pittsburgh writer, Ann K. Howley, is happy to report that Go Ape cured her fear of heights. “After a while, I stopped looking down because I was so focused on each crossing. Every time I made it to the next platform, I wanted to squeal in celebration.” July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 7 8 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 What are we “ gonna do today, MOM?”

By Ann K. Howley

ummertime. The livin’ is sup- posed to be easy, right? S Not so much for parents and kids who have to instantly transi- tion from school routine to summer routine. After months of early morn- ings, making lunches, rushing kids to the bus stop, helping with homework and offering door to door transpor- tation to band and sports practice, most moms and dads would love a break, but there is no rest period for parents. Although it’s natural for children to want to play, explore and be active, in this day and age, it’s too easy for kids to spend their summer vaca- tion lounging around and letting their computer or cell phone screens entertain them all day. Once school gets out, it’s impor- tant for parents to jump in, be proac- tive and find healthy, fun summer activities for their kids. Pittsburgh is proud of its highly- acclaimed traditional destinations, like the Children’s Museum of Pitts- burgh, Carnegie Science Center and Museums, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium and the perennial kid-favor- ite, Kennywood. I loved taking my kids to all these attractions, but sometimes, it took a bit of effort and planning to organize these trips. For my kids, Kennywood was an all-day venture, which, by the time they reached middle school, meant staying until the park closed. That’s the kind of maternal duty that would wipe me out for the next 24 hours. So here are some great summer destinations that are fun for families but don’t require a lot of pre-planning or an all- day commitment. continued on page 10 July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 9 Meadowcroft – year old stone tools, bones and other Throwing the atlatl fragments were uncovered by Univer- sity of Pittsburgh archeologists in the 1970s. It amazes me to think that ice age people had camped out in this very spot. I found it ironic that when archaeologists began their excava- tion, they had to clean up the evi- dence from the most recent human campfire, which involved beer cans. At the Rockshelter, I met the Be- Meadowcroft – Wigwam dillion family from Gibsonia. I asked nine-year-old Alexander and 12-year- old Veronica if they were able to hit gonna do today... continued from page 9 the deer with the atlatl dart. Nope, Meadowcroft Rockshelter they admitted. Okay, I feel better. & Historic Village see the 1570’s Monongahela Indian • Avella Village, which vividly recreates Native Living Treasures • heinzhistorycenter.org/meadowcroft American culture before contact with Animal Park On a narrow road just outside of Europeans, who introduced weap- Avella, PA is a rock cave that con- ons, diseases and modern ideas • Moraine and Laurel Highlands tains the oldest evidence of human about land ownership that the local • ltanimalpark.com habitation in North America. Indians found strange. My boys always loved the zoo What? How come I never heard of A tight circle of burnt-topped tree and I have many happy memories this place? posts enclose the village, which pre- of taking them to visit the zoo here I posed this question to a nice, sumably would have protected inhab- and in metropolitan areas all over the young woman named Shyleigh, who itants from forest critters and warring country. Spending the day at the zoo, was our Interpreter/Tour Guide at the neighbors. Wigwams made of woven though, is an exhausting adventure. Meadowcroft Rockshelter. “I don’t cattail-like fibers represent what living It takes a lot of effort and energy to know,” she shrugged. conditions existed at that time, and at cover the acreage in a big city zoo, Although the site opened to the the Three Sisters Garden, where vil- that is, if your kids want to see all the public in 2008, I feel like I have just lage women would grow corn, beans animals from multiple continents. discovered Pittsburgh’s best-kept and squash, interpreters demon- That’s why Living Treasures is secret. Meadowcroft Rockshelter and strate the tools and techniques of the special. It is every bit as fun and Historic Village is part of the Heinz period. interesting as a big zoo, but in a History Museum system and is a My favorite part was trying to smaller, easy to manage venue. As great place to spend time with your throw the atlatl. By the way, the spell- a testament to the popularity of this kids on a summer day. ing looked like attle-attle to me, but attraction, my husband and I were Outside of the small Visitor Center, Matthew, the guy who was doing the lucky to get a parking spot when there are three distinct areas. A short demonstration, kindly confirmed it’s we visited the Moraine location on walk through the Pine Bank Covered pronounced AT-lattle. Mother’s Day. The place was packed Bridge takes you to the 1890s Rural This prehistoric hunting weapon with moms, dads, grandparents, kids Village, which contains a reconstruct- was a cross between throwing a ed church and schoolhouse, plus a spear by hand and shooting an arrow log house and blacksmith shop from with a bow. The wooden device looks that era. Friendly costumed interpret- like a peace pipe with a long dart ers recreate life in a country village resting on it. before the turn of the 20th century. With a flick of the wrist, ancient Going back a little further in his- hunters would propel the dart toward tory is the 1770s Frontier area, where some beast that would hopefully visitors can stroll through a frontier become dinner. Although Matthew trading post and see the Miller Mu- twice knocked the antlers off the seum, which houses old carriages, fake, stationary deer in the distance, barn implements and harness racing I never came close, no matter how equipment, in tribute to the property’s many times I flicked my wrist. It was owner, Albert Miller, who was an avid great fun, though. horse racing enthusiast. The crown jewel of Meadowcroft Living Treasures – Giraffe Another short walk and you will is the Rockshelter, where 16,000 licks MacKenzie’s hand 10 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 that were lying around their enclosure Trail, which is an easy, half-mile, kid- like sunbathers on a crowded beach. friendly jaunt to an old kiln built near a Living Treasure Animal Park is truly waterfall. a treasure. Whoever named the gorge “slip- pery” was right. The smooth, damp McConnells Mill rocks can be treacherous, so caution • Portersville is always advised. Although swim- ming is not allowed in the swift and • dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/find- dangerous creek, the shade of the apark/mcconnellsmill dense, cool forest will bring relief on a Living Treasures – Lucas At the bottom of a steep, rocky hot summer day. feeds Reeve’s muntjac gorge called Slippery Rock in Law- My friend Jessica and her family, rence County, sits a 19th century who live in Cranberry, go to McCon- gristmill, which used to process corn, and strollers. nells Mill State Park once every sum- oats, wheat and buckwheat for local The unpredictability of both chil- mer. The first time they visited, they customers. McConnell was the name dren and animals is what makes a toured the gristmill first before they of the gentleman who bought the mill zoo experience so charming. Eight- went for a hike along the creek. But in 1875 and replaced the water wheel year-old Mackenzie Durbin, from Po- the next year, they hiked first, without with turbines, which were considered land, OH, beamed with delight as she paying attention to the mill’s hours. top-of-the-line technology in that fed baby carrots to the giraffes. But By the time they finished hiking, the post-Civil War era. Today, this historic when one giraffe stuck out his long, mill had already closed for the day. mill, the centerpiece of McConnells gray tongue and licked her hand, “I didn’t think the kids would care Mill State Park, is a museum where her expression turned from “great” since they had seen it before,” said visitors can learn about the history to “gross,” to the amusement of her mom, Jessica. “But the kids were so and workings of the old mill. parents and bystanders like me and disappointed the mill was closed.” However, if I wanted to pack a my husband. quick lunch and drive my kids to Living Treasures strives to provide a beautiful place not too far away More of my favorite an interactive experience, allowing where we can hike and sit beside a Pittsburgh places visitors to get closer to the animals whitewater creek to eat a sandwich, than at other zoos. The two locations McConnells Mill State Park is where I Schenley Plaza in Moraine and the Laurel Highlands would go. are separately owned and operated, • Oakland The Slippery Rock Creek gorge but each has a wide variety of ani- • pittsburghparks.org/schenley-plaza was designated a National Natural mals and activities. Erin Shaffer, the Landmark by the U.S. Department It’s hard to imagine that Schen- Moraine office manager, summed up of the Interior in 1974 and became ley Plaza used to be a parking lot. a significant difference this way: a State Park Natural Area in 1998. But, thanks to the Pittsburgh Parks “They have bears and we have Some of the trails that traverse Conservancy, the five acres nestled giraffes.” the gorge can be quite steep and between libraries and museums in At the Moraine location, there strenuous, but the beauty is unparal- Oakland are now a shining example was a long line for Animal Encounter, leled. With rocky cliffs, waterfalls and of the city’s revitalization. where visitors can get their pictures wildflowers surrounding you, taking a The Plaza, which is at the en- taken with a baby kangaroo, wallaby walk at McConnells Mill State Park is trance to Schenley Park, features or snake. The camel ride was also like stepping into a beautiful, fern- gardens, food kiosks, an expansive popular and it was fun to watch a covered fairy world. At the southern little boy ride a camel with his mom, continued on page 12 end of the park is the Hells Hollow who stuck her arm out to take a selfie. This is not a typical petting zoo McConnells Mill – Gristmill with goats and sheep. Kids are able to feed and touch animals you wouldn’t expect, like funny-faced alpacas, hump-backed cattle called miniature zebus and Reeve’s munt- jac, which are the smallest of all deer species. Of course, a thick plate of glass separates guests from the lions and no one can get near the alligators McConnells Mill – Family hike July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 11 gonna do today... continued from page 11 Caddie Shak that will keep kids busy and happy. I think my son would have loved green lawn and the family-favorite, • Donegal the new XD Dark Ride, where guests Victorian-style carousel. It is a won- • caddieshak.com derful place to bring your kids for a wear 3D glasses and interact with the picnic or play time. I can’t emphasize enough how video in play using a laser blaster in a Before you visit Schenley Plaza, much Caddie Shak meant to my son, unique, multi-sensory adventure. challenge your kids to memorize the John. In the history of my childrear- John just doesn’t know what he names of each carousel animal and ing experience, I recall only two times missed. identify them when they ride. Here that he begged for something as if are three: Henrietta, Oscar and Harry his life depended on it. His first bout The Toonseum Skettle. You’ll have to visit the web- of begging was to convince Santa • Downtown to bring him a BMX bike, but the site to find out which animals these • http://toonseum.org second was to plead with me to take names belong to and learn all the A cartoon museum? Sweet! It’s carousel animal names. him and his friend to Caddie Shak. “Pleeeeeeaaaase,” he cried, bowing small, and little kids might wonder his head and clasping his hands as if why the cartoons on the walls aren’t Point State Park & the moving like they do on TV, but for Monongahela Incline in prayer. Bless his little manipulative heart. kids who appreciate the artistry and • Downtown Caddie Shak is everything a kid history of cartoons and characters, • dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/find- loves: go carts, mini-golf, bumper The Toonseum is a fun and unique apark/point cars, paintball shooting gallery, bat- place to go. Whether its anime, superheroes or • portauthority.org/paac/schedules- ting cages, an arcade and more. your grandpa’s favorite cartoon char- maps/inclines Located in Donegal right off the PA turnpike, it’s easy to get to and, acter, you might be surprised by what Downtown Pittsburgh is a must- you find on the walls. The museum do destination for a fun morning or as I recall my son’s unfaltering zeal, it is well worth the trip.

Summer might not be a break for parents, but it is a great opportunity to have fun with your kids afternoon activity. Park on the North Fun Fore All also offers cartooning classes taught Shore at one of several stadium lots by professional cartoonists for kids or parking “structures and ride the “T” • Cranberry ages eight to 16. to Gateway Center Station. • https://funforeall.com There are only three museums It’s a short walk to Point State dedicated ”to comics and cartoon art I have a confession to make. I live Park, where the magnificent fountain in the South Hills and for many years, in the U.S., so Pittsburgh is fortunate welcomes you to the confluence of the only thing I knew about Cranberry to claim one. I think any museum the three rivers. Take a look inside the was that I could get on the turnpike that welcomes guests with the words Fort Pitt Blockhouse, built in 1764, from I-79 in Cranberry. Don’t judge Bam! Pow! Smash! painted in bold which is the only surviving structure me. I know some of you North Hills lettering above their front door is from the original fort. parents can’t imagine going through definitely worth a visit. If your kids appreciate history, a tunnel to get to work. Summer might not be a break for they will enjoy the Fort Pitt Museum, My point, though, is that since Fun parents, but it is a great opportunity which features interesting exhibits Fore All offers all the bumping, racing, to have fun with your kids, explore that highlight Western Pennsylvania’s batting and putt-putting fun that my new places, and start new traditions. role during the French & Indian War son enjoyed so much, is it possible Maybe by the time school starts and the American Revolution. that Fun Fore All could have won his again, you might be wishing the sum- Hop back on the “T” and get off allegiance if only I had ventured off mer routine could last a little longer. n at Station Square Station. Just past the turnpike? the Smithfield Street Bridge on West That I will never know. Although writer Ann K. Howley’s sons Carson Street is the Monongahela However, other moms have told are adults now, she looks forward Incline, which you can ride to the top me that on a rainy day, Fun Fore to someday spending summer days of Mount Washington for a spectacu- All, which just went through a major with grandchildren and taking them lar view of the Pittsburgh skyline. expansion, is a great place to take to all these fun places. (Boys, that’s If you have time, stop at Station your kids. There are exciting indoor not a hint.) Square for an ice cream before you activities, like the four-story jungle ride the “T” back to the North Shore. gym and 70 arcade and video games

12 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 13 The costs of Autism And what you can do about it

By Brynne Conroy

he incremental costs of support- Insurance ing an individual with autism in the While combatting a TUnited States are $1.4 million over reduced household income, the course of their lifetime according to families also have to worry a 2014 report from leading mental health about the costs of services. policy researchers. If the individual has an David Mandell, ScD, leading intellectual disability on top of their autism national researcher on qual- diagnosis, these costs shoot up to $2.4 ity care for individuals with million. autism, reports that we’re While some of these costs are shoul- fortunate in Pennsylvania. dered by health insurance and school “Pennsylvania has a very want my child to be when they’re 18? districts, they are also shouldered by generous Medicaid policy relative to other When they’re 21? Or 30?’” he prompts. individual families. From assistive technol- states for children with autism,” Mandell “We have to have a goal in mind, and ogy to therapeutic services, the costs of says. “Every state has their own Medicaid everything should be in the service of that autism can be a very real and visceral plan. They can decide how generous they goal.” part of family finances. want to be within that plan.” For example, you may be dying for an Opportunity costs He says that state waivers are often iPad to help your child communicate and deployed to extend coverage to chil- Often when we think of “costs” we you’d like the district to provide it. Bring- dren with medical conditions that would think only about the items and services ing the iPad up immediately is not a good otherwise render them institutionalized. for which we shell out money. However, negotiation strategy, though. First, you These waiver programs are limited, either research funded by the National Institute have to get everyone on board. by the amount of people they let in or the for Mental Health reveals another financial If verbal communication is one of amount of money allotted for the cause. pitfall families should be aware of: op- your team’s goals, but your child has In Pennsylvania, the number of waiv- portunity costs. not been making meaningful progress, ers allotted for individuals with autism When a child is diagnosed with bring that fact up in the IEP meeting. Ask is comparatively large. If your family’s autism, one of the parents typically re- about alternative strategies that could be health insurance plan provides only partial duces their hours or leaves the workforce implemented since the current one is not coverage for your child’s services or does completely in order to tend to the child’s working. Someone may bring up assistive not cover them at all, you can apply with needs. This leads to a reduction in overall technology, like an iPad, but if they don’t, the Department of Welfare for Medicaid household income. Compared to families you can now inquire about it within the as a secondary insurance for your child of children with other health limitations, context of your child’s IEP goal. through the waiver program—even if you households affected by autism see a 21 “Think of everyone as your colleague don’t fall below typical income limits. percent reduction in overall income. They and partner – not your enemy. These are make 28 percent less than families of Educational supports folks that went into this business for a children with no health limitations. Sometimes advocating for a special reason,” Mandell reminds us. “Sometimes This dramatic difference most pro- needs child within your school district can that gets lost along the way, but they foundly affects mothers, who are usually feel like an uphill battle. Mandell suggests have skills and expertise to bring to the the ones to take on care management treating these meetings as a negoti- table just like you do. Keep them in mind roles for their children. These mothers are ation session rather than an adversarial as partners, not antagonists.” six percent more likely to be unemployed, match. Grants & charities and if they do work, they earn less and “A lot of times what families forget When insurance refuses to cover an work less hours—seven hours less per to do is work backwards. ‘Where do I week, on average. item or service that the educational team cannot help provide, families can turn to grant-giving organizations and charities. Families in Western Pennsylvania can RIVER PEDIATRIC THERAPIES look to these organizations in particular: Keep Progress Over the Summer! Schedule a FREE Screening at 412-767-5967

ACHIEVA Family Trust Charitable Residual Program - Grants are awarded quarterly for disability-related modifica- tions, medical needs, caregiving needs, Providing outstanding therapy to children of all ages products, supplies and camp or recre- ational tuition. You can learn more by Fox Chapel | Cranberry calling (412) 995-5000. www.RiverPediatric.com 14 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 First Hand Foundation - Grants are awarded worldwide to children who have medical needs not covered by insur- ance. These needs can include medical treatment, equipment, travel and vehicle modifications. To learn more call (816) 201-1569.

Variety’s My Voice Program - Variety is a Wexford-based charity that provides adaptive equipment to children with dis- abilities. Of particular interest to families affected by autism is its “My Voice” program, which not only provides iPads to children with communication disorders, but also preloads a communication app of your speech therapist’s choice onto the device. For more information call (724) 933-0466.

continued on page 36 July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 15 education connection

Dear Teacher By Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts

Summer vacations are Rhyming words Picture stories not just for play Rhyming words are lots of fun. Read A picture is said to be worth a thou- nursery rhymes to your young children, sand words. This week let your children arents: Summer vacation’s long lazy and you will be giving them a head start stray away from traditional language arts days of play are rapidly disappear- on phonics. activities to writing stories largely with Ping. Your children may lose valuable Introduce pictures. academic skills unless they do some older children schoolwork in the summer, especially in to the poems math and reading. of Shel Silver- This summer, we are again provid- stein, Jack + ing activities that are academic in nature Prelutsky and for your children to do each week. We Bruce Lansky. also have made them fun to do so your They’ll dis- children will enjoy keeping their skills up- cover what fun + to-date as well as learning new ones. poetry can be. This summer’s activities are all in For example, U language arts, which includes reading, they’ll find speaking, listening and vocabulary build- themselves ing. You can find even more activities in laughing when they read a poem like I love you this area on our DearTeacher.com website “When Grandma Visits” in “A Bad Case of under “Learning Activities,” as well as the Giggles,” a book of poems selected The first writing was pictures drawn ones for math, social studies, reading and by Bruce Lansky. The poem starts: on cave walls. Let your children go back science. When Grandma visits you, my dears, to those times and make up stories us- be good as you can be. ing as many pictures as they can. For Don’t put hot waffles in her ears example, “I love you” could be expressed or beetles in her tea. with the picture of an eye followed by a heart and then the letter “U.” When children first start to write, they often use some pictures for words they can’t spell out. The representation of a word or phrase by a picture is called a “rebus.” For fun or a challenge, have your children go online and search for rebus stories. They will find ones for different age groups that will be fun to read. Older children can look for lists of emojis on their computers or cellphones. Then they can have fun writing messages to friends or family members using as many as emojis as they can. Creative storytelling is fun So much emphasis is now being placed on developing children’s creativ- ity. Here’s a storytelling activity that not only will increase your children’s language arts skills, it will also boost their creative- thinking skills. LOVE AND DAD MOM

To prepare for this activity, have your children find 15 to 20 rather flat rocks that are approximately two inches by two inches in size or larger. Have them decorate the rocks on one or both sides 16 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 as both characters and objects. They can use paints, marking pens, yarn, paper, stickers and so on to create the storytell- ing rocks. The rocks are then placed in a bag. To start the activity, one or more rocks are blindly selected from the bag, and a story is devised about these rock characters and objects. As the story goes on, more rocks can be drawn from the bag to embellish the story. If children find difficulty starting a story, you can give them a starter such as, “Once upon a time, a frog was living in a house with a large dog.” Handwriting through the ages Summer vacation may be over or ending soon for your children. For their last language arts activity, have them experience different forms of handwriting that were used in the past. Have them try writing with a stylus on clay or play dough as the first writing was done. Next, they should discover what it was like in the Middle Ages when illuminators and paint- ers often used very fine brushes and ink. Then your children can relive how students did their classroom work in the early 1800s using quills and ink. This will be messy! However, even today, quills are still being used by professional calligraphers. After the 1820s, metal pens were used with ink. You may not be able to find these pens. However, if you have old fountain pens, let your children experience writing with them. Then bring them up to today and have them write with markers. An intriguing word game Here is an intriguing game that can challenge family members of all ages. Play it until everyone in the family knows the secret of choosing the right words to show the pattern. Here are several examples: (1) It is school. It is not vaca- tion. (2) It is good. It is not bad. (3) It is deer. It is not dog. (4) It is poor. It is not rich. (5) It is apple. It is not orange. If you can’t figure out the word pattern secret, email us at dearteacher@dearteacher. com. But don’t give up too easily. Some adults have taken hours to discover the secret. n

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher. com or ask them on the columnists’ website at www.dearteacher.com.

July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 17 teens today Boating adventures: Shore up for safe summer fun By Lisa A. Beach

Adding alcohol into the mix only • Be prepared – Learn how to increases the odds for a lake-side perform CPR. disaster. Before your teens decide to crank up “A few years ago, a group of teens the tunes and pop open a cold one on were celebrating their high school gradu- the boat, remind them that drinking and ation at a lake by renting a big party boat driving is a crime on land and water. Just with a slide and diving board,” recalls like Driving Under the Influence (DUI), Allphin. “They were all drinking and, it’s illegal to operate a boat while under or many teens, nothing beats an unfortunately, one of them died. He was the influence of alcohol or drugs in every afternoon on the lake with friends. heavily intoxicated and, after jumping into state. Each state enforces its own penal- But before you celebrate their deci- the water, he passed out and drowned.” ties, which could range from fines to jail F To jump start your conversation about sion to unplug from a screen and spend time to potential drivers’ license suspen- the day outdoors, review some guidelines water safety, boating and alcohol, arm sion. to ensure their day of fun in the sun is yourself with the above statistics and cue Even if alcohol isn’t involved, there’s safe. up these safety tips: the issue of liability if the person operating Although your teens might still need • Know your surroundings – your boat or jet ski causes an accident. prompting about applying sunscreen, Swimming in a pool is a lot different “The liability and rules that apply to they’ve now got even bigger issues than swimming in open water, where driving in a vehicle are almost the same to deal with – the potential dangers of cold temperatures, strong currents, for boating,” explains Robert L. Chaiken, boating, swimming without adult supervi- jagged rocks, uneven surfaces, a personal injury attorney and partner sion and drinking alcohol. Even though submerged objects and unpredictable in Chaiken & Chaiken P.C. in Plano. “If teens might tune you out, it’s important to weather increase the dangers. you’re operating a boat and cause an have frank discussions with them. • Avoid alcohol – Allphin points out accident, you’re liable just like you’d be if For starters, share these sobering that alcohol dehydrates, slows reaction you were driving a car – to the people in statistics: time, impairs balance, coordination and your vehicle and anyone else you get in • Drowning is the third leading cause of judgment. an accident with.” Speaking of liability, what about any injury-related death among children • Always wear a life jacket – 19 and under, according to Safe Kids Wear one even if you know how to mishaps that occur at your lake house? Worldwide. swim. “If someone gets injured on your lake house property, you’d have • Alcohol plays a role in 50 the same kinds of liability percent of all boating acci- and concerns that you’d dents, according to Boat have in your own home,” Owners Association of The Chaiken says. His advice? United States. “Get the same kind of insur- • Where cause of death was ance protection (home- known, 76 percent of fatal owners insurance) on your boating accident victims lake house as you have on drowned, according to your home.” 2015 statistics from the To balance both fun U.S. Coast Guard. Of and safety, it all boils down those drowning victims to using a common-sense with reported life jacket approach. usage, 85 percent were not “Limit the number of wearing a life jacket. people you allow at the Of course, if your kids are lake house, identify them like most teens, they’ve often ahead of time and square it got questionable judgment away with all their parents,” and an invincibility mentality. advises Chaiken. “Plus, “A teenager’s frontal lobe (the judg- know your kids’ level of ment and decision-making area) is not • Never swim alone – Swim maturity and responsibility, have a lot of yet developed. This is why teens act in areas supervised by a lifeguard. If rules, talk about what’s acceptable and impulsively and appear to make poor that’s not possible, always swim with a check in with your kids to monitor what’s decisions,” explains Stacie R. Allphin MS, buddy so you’ve got some built-in help going on if they’ll be unsupervised.” n LCDC, Director of Adolescent Services, if needed. Memorial Hermann Prevention and • Keep others informed – If Recovery Center in Dallas. “As a result, you’re heading out for a swim (or a Lisa Beach is a freelance journalist, con- many teens participate in high-risk activi- jaunt on a boat, inner tube, etc.), tell tent marketing specialist, and copywriter ties, such as jet skiing while intoxicated, someone on land where you’re going for hire. Check out her writer’s website at jumping off cliffs into water, etc.” and when you’ll be back. www.LisaBeachWrites.com. 18 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 Great Daddy-Daughter date destinations

By Christina Katz

ust as moms and daughters can bond by spending special time together, dads and daughters need Jquality time, too. I have learned that making memories with her dad is just as important for my daughter as mak- ing memories with me or with the entire family. So the next time your husband and daughter are due for some quality time together, pull up this list of delightful des- tinations, choose one or two, and shoo them out the door. They’ll come home worn-out, happy and more bonded, and these are gifts that last them both a lifetime. • Breakfasts out – Test-drive joints until they discover their faves. • Trips to the city – Take the bus, the train, or the subway. Then walk every- where else. • Visits to the zoo – Don’t forget coins for animal snacks and money for • Bike rides – They can both ride. Or if • Hit concerts – Pack a picnic for the people snacks. dad runs, make it a run/ride combo. outdoors or earplugs for the rock-and- roll. • Bowling dates – Who can win the • Out to ball games – Baseball, bas- best of five? ketball, football - she’ll love a game at • All-you-can-eat buffets – Go hun- the stadium. gry and then pace yourselves once you • Amusement park romps – Spin get there. around first; eat cotton candy after. • Waterslides or waterparks – Bath- • Tourist traps – ing suit up and scream all the Is there a famous way down. something-or-other Souvenirs dads &

shop nearby that they’ll • Horse or racecar tracks – daughters cherish Decide how much you will each love? Succumb to the • Bumper stickers of their favorite bet and stick to it. hype. destinations. Pick nearby • High-wire acts – Zip lines, air-trams, • Matching t-shirts or baseball caps. • Short road trips – towns you’ve never been to, jump in and skyscrapers - anything with a view • Anything they can win together. just for the thrill of it. the car and go. • Postcards, stickers or magnets. Zing-bang-pop! • Go fishin’ – Dad can hook the worms • Arcade outings – • Photos of them posing together. Make those tokens last, so you can if she doesn’t want to, but she just play for hours and combine your prize • A concert or game program. might surprise you. tickets. • A pocketful of pretty rocks. • Geocaching – Download the official • Miniature golfing – Try a new course • A five-dollar memento of her choice. Geocaching app at http://www.geo- within a thirty-mile radius every time caching.com and off to hunt you go. you go. • Grab a matinée – Ticket prices are • Historical landmarks – Take indoor cheaper so splurge for popcorn, candy, and a drink. or outdoor tours. Try to learn little- • Ride sleds or slides – Maybe you known facts. have a nearby mountain with sledding • Roller or ice skating – Check out • Day hikes – Wear two pairs of socks in the cold months and alpine sliding in open skate times and party themes like and sturdy shoes. Bring band-aids, trail the warm months. neon or disco skates. mix and water. continued on page 36 July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 19 Preschool & Childcare Guide

20 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 Choosing the right preschool By Lara Krupicka

iven the college-like intensity of schools target developmental and social preschoolers thrive in a bustling room preschool admissions these days, growth and encourage child-directed with lots of kids. Don’t forget to note how Gwith applications, waitlists and learning. A traditional preschool with an many students there are per adult in the hefty tuitions, choosing a preschool can academic focus has more structure and classroom. A larger class with a teacher be a daunting process. But you can soft- is teacher-directed. Co-op preschools rely and several aides may allow your child en the stress by narrowing your criteria heavily on parental participation. Other more one-on-one attention than a small ahead of time. Here are some consider- types of preschools include nature-orient- class served by a single teacher. ations to take into account in your search: ed, religious-affiliated and bilingual. Multi-year Options Part- or full-time Location If your child’s birthday falls close to the You may remember going to pre- Consider how far you want to drive elementary enrollment cutoff date, you school for a few hours a day, two or three and whether you want your child to be may want them to attend more than one days a week. And while those options around preschoolers who will attend the year of preschool. Many preschools offer exist, some preschools offer full-day, full- same elementary school in future years. age-based classes, but you may also find week preschool or child-care/preschool You may prefer a more distant school a preschool class followed by a pre-K combinations. Decide how many days for its reputation and be willing to drive. class works for your family. n and for how long your child will attend Or you may find a preschool along your preschool. commute to work more convenient. Play-based, academic, co-op Class size and Knowing your goals for preschool can teacher-student ratio Lara Krupicka is a freelance writer from help you decide which preschool philoso- More reserved children may fare bet- Naperville, IL. phy and style might fit best. Play-based ter in a more intimate setting, while other

preschool & childcare guide July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 21 Preschool & Childcare Profiles

ACHIEVA Early Intervention Preschool Aquinas Academy of Pittsburgh Carriage House Children’s Center H p Readiness Group 2308 W. Hardies Rd., Gibsonia 15044 5604 Solway Street, Pittsburgh 15217 711 Bingham Street, Pittsburgh 15203 AquinasAcademy.info...... 724-444-0722 carriagehouse.org ...... 412-421-0300 achievaearlyintervention.org ...... 412-995-5000 Aquinas Academy’s preschool offers a warm and For over forty years, Carriage House Children’s ACHIEVA Early Intervention is the premier pro- nurturing environment; just right for your little Center has been recognized for its expertise in vider of early intervention services in southwest- one to feel secure and develop a love of learning. caring for and educating children ages six-weeks ern PA. A leader in early intervention, ACHIEVA Daily activities include craft projects, games, to six-years. The Center places an emphasis on Early Intervention has served families in Allegh- science, Spanish and more. Three-year-olds age appropriate developmental curriculum and eny County for nearly 45 years; ACHIEVA Early develop social skills while being introduced to the offers a varied and flexible program. The Center Intervention also serves families in Westmoreland alphabet and numbers. Pre-K students learn math is located in the Wightman School Community County, and recently expanded to Washington and phonics at the Kindergarten level. Pre-K Plus! Building, which is very spacious and has a large County. Children who receive early intervention focuses on pre-reading skills and includes weekly gym, a music room and several outside play areas. services through ACHIEVA Early Intervention visits to the library and gym. We offer part-time/full-time care for children. The are eligible to be a part of the Preschool Readiness Center is open from 7:30am until 6pm, Monday Group, an inclusive program aimed at preparing Bellwood Preschool through Friday. children for the transition to preschool. Skills such 2359 West Ingomar Rd., Pittsburgh 15237 as following routines, interacting with peers and bellwoodpreschool.com ...... 412-366-3812 Campus School of Carlow University social skills, as well as separating from parents, Nestled in the woods of Franklin Park, Bellwood 3333 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh 15213 are all a part of the curriculum. The Preschool Preschool has been offering a unique educational campusschool.carlow.edu...... 412-578-6158 Readiness Group is facilitated by ACHIEVA Early experience for preschoolers for over 50 years. The Campus School of Carlow University is an Intervention developmental therapists and is held Bellwood is a discovery-oriented and certified independent, coeducational, Catholic day school weekly at the South Side ACHIEVA offices. eco-healthy school where children choose educating infants through grade eight. Located activities, problem solve, and learn through on the campus of Carlow University in Oakland, Adat Shalom Preschool creative play. Students thrive creatively, socially The Campus School offers both Montessori and 368 Guys Run Road, Cheswick 15024 and intellectually. With an impressive student traditional preschool programs. The learner- adatshalompreschool.org ...... 412-820-9110 to teacher ratio (6:1), Bellwood is a place where centered classroom environments encourage A home away from home best describes the children feel special, and that environment builds children to grow independently, cooperatively, atmosphere of Adat Shalom Preschool. We serve the foundation for a love of learning. and responsibly in an atmosphere that focuses the Fox Chapel/North Suburban area, and are on the feelings and needs of others. STEM open to every child, with programs that serve Beulah Christian Preschool and Child Care H p disciplines and the arts are woven throughout children aged 14 months through Pre-K. Our 2500 McCrady Rd., Churchill Borough 15235 the curriculum, encouraging the development of small class sizes and experienced staff promote beulahpscc.org ...... 412-242-4424 critical thinking and creativity while having fun. self-esteem and independence. Music Mondays, BCPCC is a center whose mission is to provide a Our reputation for academic excellence attracts classroom visitors, Super Science, and creativity in caring, nurturing community where each child students from all religious, cultural, economic and a play-based environment are integral components and family is encouraged to grow cognitively, ethnic backgrounds. of our morning curriculum. Extended day, socially, emotionally, physically and spiritually. STEM Camp and Summer Splash Camps are also Certified, experienced educators provide a Child’s Way® H available. variety of developmentally appropriate, engaging activities year-round for children ages 6 weeks to 5 The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center Arsenal Family & Children’s Center H p years. Part-day and Full-day options with flexible scheduling are available. 5324 Penn Avenue, Friendship 15224 336 S. Aiken Ave., Pittsburgh 15232 childrenshomepgh.org ...... 412-441-4884 arsenalfamily.org ...... 412-345-0008 A program of The Children’s Home, Child’s Way® Arsenal Family & Children’s Center is a private, offers an alternative or supplement to in-home non-profit child development center providing nurs ing and therapy services for children with toddler and preschool programs designed to ongoing medical needs ages birth to 21. Staffed by promote and optimize children’s development. experi enced pediatric registered nurses, teachers Arsenal provides children opportunities for active and an educational coordinator. Medical costs learning through play focusing on developing the covered by most insurance. Full and part time whole child cognitively, physically, socially and enrollment. Licensed by Department of Health emotionally in a safe, nurturing and stimulating as a medical facility and Department of Public environment. Arsenal’s classrooms are Keystone Welfare as a day care. Stars 4 and NAEYC Accredited offering half-day and full-day programs during the school year. Special Advertising Section

22 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 preschool & childcare guide Selecting a daycare that works for your child and you By Judy M. Miller

ne of the toughest first decisions I had to make as a new parent-to- be was finding exceptional daycare Ofor my newborn. I had to go back to work six weeks after giving birth so I began my daycare search long before my son was born. I was thankful I did. Many daycares were full and had waiting lists. A number were simply not in our budget. Others did not take such a young infant. Begin early Begin your quest for a daycare as soon as you realize that you will need it. Many daycares require a deposit to hold a place for your child. If your child has special needs that will need to be addressed, inquire if the daycare can support you in this and whether you will be comfortable. You may want to explore hiring a nanny or an in-home provider. Ask those who know I asked daycare-seasoned parents about the daycares they used before I be- gan exploring daycare options. Their input helped me to decide the environment I wanted my child to be in. Determine what your parameters are: location, cost, hours and days needed and in-home versus a church-based or commercial daycare center. Schedule a tour of any daycare that has made it on to your final list of options. Be sure to bring your list of questions with you. Look for a nurturing environment Children require nurturing to grow healthy minds and bodies. Observe the environment as you tour the home or fa- for him and tearfully told the caregiver the cility. What is the daily schedule? How are truth. She gave me a big hug and said, children treated? What is the caregiver to “Well, that’s normal!” My son’s aggres- child ratio? How does the daycare “feel”? sion and biting disappeared within days How do the daycare employees transition because he was receiving more nurtur- children into new rooms? ing. She also had him potty trained at fourteen months. He stayed with her until Be comfortable with the he began kindergarten. method of discipline Pay attention to safety Ask how the daycare disciplines a child. If you are not comfortable with their and cleanliness methods, walk. I did not think about ask- What are the security procedures? ing about discipline until my son, and only Does the daycare follow them? Check child at that time, was kicked out of day- out the bathrooms. Ask to see the kitch- care at the ripe age of twelve months for en. Check if the caregivers and other staff biting. I found another in-home daycare continued on page 36 preschool & childcare guide July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 23 Preschool & Childcare Profiles Christ Church Preschool Hillcrest Christian Academy Montessori Centre Academy, Inc. 5910 Babcock Boulevard, Pittsburgh 15237 2500 Bethel Church Road, Bethel Park 15102 1014 Wm. Flynn Highway, Glenshaw 15116 Behind Northway Mall hillcrest.org ...... 412-854-4040 montessoricentreacademy.com .... 412-486-6239 ChristChurchKids.org ...... 412-496-6360 The Early Childhood Center at Hillcrest Christian We are celebrating 50 years of quality education. A A program for every child ages 2-5. We offer Academy offers 3 and 4-year-old Preschool challenging and innovative curriculum is offered small class sizes in a secured building, an excellent programs as well as full day and half day to all children from toddlers to 6th grade. A tenured staff, beautiful classrooms and a fenced in Kindergarten programs. Each program is designed specialized program to develop their potential in playground. Our parent’s waiting room provides to instill into children a lifelong love of learning Music, Art, Spanish & Technology. Located on 20 an avenue for a daily summary of classroom through developmentally relevant activities and acres - 3 playgrounds. Childcare is available from activities. Our classroom experience is enriched by instruction, infused with a Biblical worldview 7am-6pm for enrolled students. field trips and visitors. We also offer an extended that reinforces your family’s values. Kindergarten day program and summer camp. includes specials in computer, gym, science, library, Priory Court Children’s Center art, Spanish and music. 2566 Duncan Avenue, Allison Park 15101 Hamilton Church Preschool priorycourtchildrenscenter.com.... 412-487-5758 4500 Hamilton Rd., Pittsburgh 15236 Kiddie Academy of Cranberry Twp. & Wexford For over 25 years, Priory Court Children’s Center [email protected] .. 412-884-2722 1044 N Boundary Rd, Cranberry Twp 16066 has offered care to children 6 weeks through 5 Hamilton Church Preschool – a comfortable, KiddieAcademy.com/cranberrytownship.. 724-452-9898 years old (including a Pre-K class). The center welcoming learning environment conveniently 140 Swinderman Rd, Wexford 15090 is open from 6:30am-6:30pm. We provide located in the South Hills. Our curriculum is KiddieAcademy.com/wexford...... 724-935-9898 developmentally appropriate curriculum, ensuring aligned to State Standards and our costs are An educational childcare center that will exceed an abundance of activities. There is a great outside competitive. We offer a 2-day and 3-day class for your expectations! We provide educational play area. three and four year olds in the morning; a Pre-K daycare that focuses on days filled with learning class in the afternoon and large outdoor play space and fun, the key ingredients of our Life Essentials® Providence Heights Alpha School for all classes. Sibling discounts available. Call for a educational philosophy. For children ages 6 weeks 9000 Babcock Blvd, Allison Park 15101 tour of our faith-based preschool, or contact us via - 12 years. All food prepared on-site. Allergy and Alphaschool.org…………………..412-847-8001 our email or Facebook. dietary needs accepted. Camp Adventure takes The Alpha 4 year old Pre-K program uses play place through August. Before/after school care and hands on learning to invite children into HeartPrints Center for Early Education provided for older children, with bussing to local academics. Whole child development is important 850 Cranberry Woods Dr., Cranberry Twp. 16066 schools. Mon-Fri, 6:30am-6:30pm, with secure as students feel loved, nurtured, and honored heartprintsed.org ...... 724-741-1008 entrance and surroundings. for who they are. Children travel to art, music, HeartPrints offers families developmentally library, Spanish, gym, and swimming. They engage appropriate programs for children ages 2–8 years L’Asilo by La Scuola d’Italia Galileo Galilei in math, reading, writing, science, and social old that foster creativity, problem-solving and 401 Shady Ave., Suite G101, Pittsburgh 15206 studies with the homeroom teacher. They develop responsibility within a global perspective. We asilogalileo.org …………...... 412-404-7070 friendships with 8th grade buddies. Afterschool are especially interested in gardening, exploring L’Asilo is a non-profit Italian Daycare and extended care available. M-F 7:15 -11:00am or our forest and creek and giving back to our Preschool that uses the Montessori and Reggio 7:15am – 2:30pm community. Programs include: full or half-day Emilia methodologies to teach your child and to preschool and kindergarten, afternoon clubs, contribute to his/her cognitive, cultural, emotional, Rodef Shalom Preschool parent/toddler classes and summer camps. Yoga linguistic, physical, and social development. We 4905 Fifth Avenue, Shadyside 15213 and foreign language are included in preschool offer a safe, secure, and supportive environment RodefShalom.org ...... 412-621-6566 and kindergarten programs. Extended day options with multi-cultural and multi-lingual educational From September to early June, we help children are available. We hold a Private Academic School options to give your child skills in different 18 months through 5 years begin to discover license from the Pennsylvania Department of languages and academic subjects like science, their identity. Here, children’s play is their work. Education. All classrooms are allergy sensitive. math, art, reading, and to prepare him/her for Children’s learning is a process where activities Kindergarten. Summer camps are also available. stimulate all areas of development simultaneously. Learning by doing – recognizing a beginning, middle and end to activities, discovering the connections between action and effect, symbol and substance – is fundamental to our philosophy of learning. Jewish values taught, open to ALL families. Special Advertising Section

24 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 preschool & childcare guide Ages 18 months − 5 years Jewish Values ∙ All Families Welcome 4905 Fifth Avenue, Shadyside www.RodefShalom.org preschool & childcare guide July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 25 Preschool & Childcare Profiles Royal Oak Nursery School & Kindergarten Shady Lane School H p St. Paul’s Children’s Ministries p 4413 Mt. Royal Blvd., Allison Park 15101 100 North Braddock Ave., Pittsburgh 15208 1965 Ferguson Road, Allison Park 15101 royaloaksch.com ...... 412-487-1668 Shadylane.org...... 412-243-4040 stpaulsumc.com ...... 412-486-7006 Family owned and operated since 1967, Royal Shady Lane School is a diverse and inclusive St. Paul’s provides loving, caring environments Oak is dual licensed. A private school situated on learning community committed to facilitating throughout the year, including summer activities. four acres in Hampton Township, it offers small children’s social, emotional, physical and Drop-in Child Care, infants to 5-year-olds. class sizes for Nursery through Kindergarten intellectual growth. At Shady Lane School, NAEYC accredited preschool has creative classes age children. All children are exposed to educators listen and nurture, parents can ages 2-5. Kidz Korner provides before/after school computers. Spanish instruction is provided for participate and children thrive and flourish. Call care, K-5th graders. Kindergarten enrichment Pre-Kindergarten children and is part of the all us today to schedule a tour of our amazing arts class available mornings and afternoons. day Kindergarten program. In addition to the based facility! Transportation, tutoring, homework, and snacks classroom art activities, children also participate make Kidz Korner a special place. in a specialized art program with the art teacher. Solid Foundations Academy 119 Neely School Road, Wexford 15090 Tender Care Learning Centers H p Sewickley Academy SolidFoundationsAcademy.com .. 724-799-8038 earlyeducationpros.org 315 Academy Avenue, Sewickley 15143 SFA helps to BUILD your child’s FUTURE! Tender Care Learning Centers is an exciting place Sewickley.org ...... 412-741-2235 Located off the Wexford exit in the expansive for your child to develop and grow into a unique In Sewickley Academy’s dynamic Pre-K through Pure Sportsplex provides space to build STRONG individual. In our warm and loving environment, Kindergarten setting, every child is treated as an BODIES. Our accredited preschool builds SHARP you and your child will develop relationships with individual and is challenged to explore and excel MINDS and is the right balance between learning the teachers, managers, and other families within to his or her highest ability. Our teachers nurture through play and teacher-guided academics. our school. Through discovery and play, your child children to become confident learners. Fostering Our licensed drop-in child care builds SOLID will be introduced to a world of language arts, each child’s emotional, social, and academic FOUNDATIONS and offers a flexible schedule large and small motor activities, math, science and development through hands-on learning and that is perfect for your family. Come partner with so much more. They will have many opportunities exploration. Whoever you are, whatever you love, us to BUILD a team of caring people for your to have fun, make friends, and build lasting bonds wherever you want to go, we’re a special place for child’s SUCCESS! that are priceless. See our ad for locations! you to learn and grow. Shadyside Presbyterian Church Nursery School Western PA Montessori School Shady Side Academy Country Day School 5121 Westminster Place, Pittsburgh 15232 2379 Wyland Avenue, Allison Park 15101 in Fox Chapel shadysideschool.org ...... 412-681-6311 wpms.edu ...... 412-487-2700 620 Squaw Run Road East, Pittsburgh 15238 Shadyside Presbyterian Church Nursery School Western PA Montessori School, located in the ShadySideAcademy.org ...... 412-963-1277 (SPCNS) offers developmentally appropriate North Hills, is the first Montessori School in Enrolling children in junior pre-kindergarten (age classes for two, three and pre-k four and five-year- Western Pennsylvania. Founded in 1965 by 3) through grade 5, Shady Side Academy Country olds. For over 62 years SPCNS has been devoted a group of parents, it offers quality hands-on Day School (formerly Fox Chapel Country Day to providing quality early childhood education in programs for children 20-months through 6-years. School) provides students with a foundation a caring and nurturing environment. The Nursery In addition to the Montessori materials, children centered in academics and the arts, enabling each School’s curriculum allows children to develop participate in music, Spanish and physical child to achieve academic success and personal motor, perceptual and cognitive skills through education. The non-profit school offers part-day self-confidence. Our 17-acre wooded campus offers creative play and hands-on experience. and full-day Montessori Toddler, Preschool and a safe and nurturing environment fostering close, Kindergarten classes. Open from 7:30am-6:00pm. supportive interaction among students, teachers St. Johns Preschool Summer camp available. and parents. PK programs meet three to five half- 311 Cumberland Rd., Pittsburgh 15237 days per week, with after-school care available. stjohnspreschoolonline.com ...... 412-364-3306 Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children For over 30 years, St. John’s Preschool continues 201 North Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh 15213 Shady Side Academy Junior School to offer a nurturing, educational, and creative wpsbc.org ...... 412-621-0100 in Point Breeze learning program to prepare children for a lifelong Located in Oakland, WPSBC is a one-of-a-kind 400 S. Braddock Ave., Pittsburgh 15221 love of learning to kids 2-5 years old. There are educational facility committed to training visually ShadySideAcademy.org...... 412-473-4437 morning and afternoon sessions offered as well as impaired students with additional disabilities. The The pre-kindergarten program at Shady Side enrichment music and physical education classes. School also provides vital early intervention and Academy Junior School provides a vibrant and Located in McCandless, North Hills. Come learn outreach services to visually impaired students, strong academic setting for children ages 3-1/2 and grow with us! with or without additional challenges, throughout to 4. With a focus on balanced literacy, math western Pennsylvania. A Child’s VIEW: Vision and science, our child-centered program helps in Extraordinary Ways Early Childhood students learn critical social and cognitive skills Center, located on WPSBC’s campus, provides to build the foundation for lifelong learning. comprehensive blended childcare opportunities Teachers help children develop a positive self- for typically developing children and those with image, enhanced interpersonal skills and a sense visual impairments ages 6 weeks to 5 years. of independence. 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26 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 preschool & childcare guide Do video games boost preschoolers’ brainpower? By Malia Jacobson

arah Stetner is proudly raising two that showed slight vocabulary gains in educational programming and media young techies. Her sons Gabriel, infants exposed to a “Baby Wordsworth” devices don’t boost learning. That’s be- Sthree, and Isaiah, six, are media language-oriented DVD. “The idea that cause most babies and toddlers lack the mavens who know their way around an media has no educational benefits is a critical contextual knowledge that enables iPad—and almost every other device on common misconception,” she says. them to learn from a television program. the market. “Leapster, iPad, Wii, Xbox, For preschoolers, the hubbub about computer, they do it all,” she says. The Learning debate media overexposure isn’t because most Stetners set media limits for “nonedu- As families snap up smartphones, media is harmful in and of itself, notes ational” media and TV shows but not for tablets and educational techno-toys, Sarah Roseberry, Ph.D., a researcher with learning-oriented video games and de- the debate over their educational value the Institute for Learning and Brain Sci- vices. “Those, they can play all they like,” is heating up. Many modern kids live in ences (I-LABS) at University of Washing- says Stetner. homes where media devices outnum- ton. Instead, the concern centers on what Just how educational those devices ber people – the average home has kids miss out on when they’re parked in are is the subject of debate. The Ameri- almost ten screens, according to one front of a screen. According to one study, can Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recom- study. Common Sense Media reports kids lose 50 minutes of face-to-face inter- mends no screen use for babies and 40 percent of two-to-four year olds use action and ten minutes of play for every toddlers and strict limits for older chil- smartphones, tablet computers or similar hour they spend in front of a screen. dren, based on their claim that so-called devices. Nearly half (44 percent) of pre- “Right now, we’re concerned with dis- “educational” video games and television schoolers have a television in their bed- placement and the idea that the screen shows have no proven learning benefits. room. Younger tots see plenty of screens, time is replacing the type of face-to-face But that claim is controversial – some too: the AAP reports that 90 percent of interactions that we know promote lan- experts insist that certain media can and children under two use some form of guage development and other types of do boost learning for young children. electronic media daily. learning,” she says. Elizabeth Vandewater, Ph.D., associ- One thing researchers and the AAP ate professor of health promotion and agree on: a child’s potential for technolo- behavioral science at The University of gy-aided learning depends largely on age. Texas Health Science Center, led a study For babies and toddlers, the AAP says continued on page 36

preschool & childcare guide July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 27 Fine tuning fine motor skills By Katrina Cassel

ell tuned fine motor skills will Zip, snap, button – Encourage Cut – Scissors can be lots of fun to help your child in kindergarten your child to dress independently and to use when a child is ready. Most children Wand beyond. Starting in kinder- do as much of the fastening as he can. are awkward with scissors at first. If garten, a child is expected to be able to You can also purchase dolls that have your child doesn’t catch on after a little snap, zip and button their own clothing larger buttons and easier zippers for your practice, he may not be ready yet. Using and coats. They need to be able to use child to practice on, or you can make scissors well usually happens after a crayons, pencils and scissors. They also your own. Some children learn to tie their child has learned to use crayons, building need to be able to manipulate beads and shoes as young as four or five but many blocks and beads. counters. don’t master it until six or seven. You may Purchase a child’s size pair of quality Many preschool children are already want to introduce shoe tying and have scissors. Don’t expect your child to be developing their fine motor skills. Whether them tie the first part and then you tie the able to cut out a picture first thing. Prac- your child is or not, you can provide bows. tice on just cutting strips of paper. Check activities to encourage her with it. that your child is holding the scissors cor- Pick up – Picking up items such as Color – This doesn’t have to be in a rectly and in whichever hand he favors. pennies and other small objects develops Demonstrate how to cut by prompting coloring book. Provide your child colored the pincher grasp. Make practice fun by chalk to draw on the sidewalk. Allow her your child “open - close, open - close.” pouring out a bag M&Ms or Skittles on After your child has mastered the to draw her own designs on the backs the table. Then tell your child to pick up of old paper or grocery sacks using cutting technique, provide fun practice by one red M&M or one green skittle and so letting him cut pictures of toys out of the bright colored markers. Be creative! The on. important thing is that she practices her old toy catalogue or cutting colored paper for a paper chain. finger strength and fine motor skills while Roll it, squeeze it – Improve Good fine motor skills are essential in having fun. overall hand strength, which is important the school years. Let your preschool child to fine motor skills by rolling and squeez- practice in fun and creative ways. n String things – Let your child ing playdough. Teach your child to make string spools or beads on a shoe string. balls or long skinny snakes. Encourage She may also enjoy stringing cereal then Katrina (Kathy) Cassel, M.Ed., lives with him to squeeze the playdough and work her husband, four of their eight children, eating it. You can encourage her to make his hand muscles. color patterns while she strings objects. and an assortment of pets in the Florida panhandle.

28 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 preschool & childcare guide preschool & childcare guide July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 29 family health

Tips for choosing a pediatrician By Sarah Lyons for mine.” Some parents, like Nathan things into consideration as you narrow and Wendy Hladky of Overland Park, down your list. KS, chose the same primary care doctor for the whole family. “All four Visit the office of us use the same doctor. It is super To find out if you feel comfortable in convenient.” says Nathan. the pediatrician’s office, you will have to Another great way to narrow your take a tour. Call the office and ask if they search in a new area is to call the have times set up for potential patients to local NICU and ask the nurses who come and visit the office or if you would they would recommend. “The nurses need to make an appointment and ask are more likely to give unbiased feed- if you can interview the doctor at the back.” says Rodganna Avery, mom same time. Remember to ask if there is a of three. charge for visiting. Verify with your insur- ance company to see if the cost would Cover the basics be covered or if you would be responsible First you must compare your list for the fees. of candidates with your insurance When visiting the office be aware of policy. “I look to see what providers what the overall environment feels like. are in our network then start looking Take into consideration if the office staff for reviews of those doctors online. is courteous, polite and willing to help. Is I was able to find a doctor that was the office clean and inviting? Was parking better than we ever expected.” says convenient? Do they have separate sick Stephanie Beaurdry, Texas mom of and well waiting areas? Take all of these two. things into consideration in your decision. Check if the the doctor is certified If you plan to visit more than one office, by the American Board of Pediatrics. be sure to take notes for later consider- This means the doctor has passed a ation. specialized test in pediatrics. If you choose a family doctor, ask if the Ask some questions doctor is certified in the American After you have decided that the office fter your baby is born, you will visit Board of Family Medicine. Family environment is a good fit, you will need the pediatrician often. In the first doctors are trained to treat patients of all to interview the pediatrician. Pharma- year, your baby will have seven well ages, including children, but they do not cists, Darcy and Phil King said “ After A collecting recommendations, I scoured visits. Studies show that first time parents have a specialty in pediatrics. may visit their child’s pediatrician up to Next consider the basic office infor- their websites, set up appointments and sixteen times before baby’s first birthday. mation that can be found online or with interviewed them. After the visits, it was (www.fitpregnancy.com) a quick phone call. What are the office very clear which was a good fit.” Your child’s doctor plays an important hours? Do they have walk in hours? Will Start by asking how sick appoint- role in their life and, therefore, you will the doctor visit the hospital where you will ments work. How long would it take for need to find one that is a good fit for the deliver your baby? What hospital will your a sick child to be seen? Is there a good parents and the child. It can be chal- child be admitted to if needed? Is the chance the child will be seen by his own lenging to find a pediatrician that is right office location convenient to your home, doctor? Do you have similar views on for your family. Here are some tips to get work, school and daycare? Take these health and wellness such as circumci- you started on your search: sion, breastfeeding and immunizations. Start with It is also important recommendations to consider what When is it time to find a your preferences As a first time parent, are. “Do you want or a family that has just new pediatrician? • If your child cries the whole time, that alone, is not cause to a doctor who offers relocated, it is hard to choices and lets you know where to begin your switch. However, if the doctor doesn’t seem to care or make an effort to soothe your child, you may have a problem. decide which one search for a pediatrician. works best for you? • If you’re unclear why a certain medication is prescribed or why a “I asked other moms for Or would you be test is done. recommendation. It’s a more comfortable great way to see what • If you can’t come to an agreement, or at least a middle ground, on with one who gives names came up repeat- most issues. a lot of directions?” edly.” says Cedar Rapids, (www.babycenter. IA mom, Jill Miller. Stacy • If the location and hours no longer work for your family. • If the doctor often seems inaccessible when your child is sick. com) Overall, does Cook, nurse and mom the doctor seem of three suggests asking • If the doctor is making you feel bad or consistently reproaching genuinely interested your OBGYN for a recom- you for parenting choices. in your child or does mendation. “I figured if • If you feel the doctor is not listening to your concerns. he seem distracted they were good enough or rushed? Take for my doctor’s kids then your overall impres- they were good enough sion into account

30 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 when making your decision. • If you’re unclear why a certain medica- Bedside manner tion is prescribed or why a test is done. • If you can’t come to an agreement, How the doctor interacts with your or at least a middle ground, on most child will have a lot of impact on the issues. decision to choose a pediatrician. Do you feel comfortable around the doctor? • If the location and hours no longer Does your child? Are they willing to take work for your family. the time to listen to your questions and • If the doctor often seems inaccessible concerns? A good bedside manner can when your child is sick. go a long way in making you and your • If the doctor is making you feel bad child feel comfortable. or consistently reproaching you for parenting choices. Finding the right pediatrician can be overwhelming, but realize your decision • If you feel the doctor is not listening to does not have to be permanent.“It’s your concerns. important to recognize you are not stuck Before switching, discuss your with your decision. You see your pedia- concerns with the doctor. If a compro- trician a lot in those first months and if mise cannot be made, it’s time to look there is something really bothering you, elsewhere. Your child’s health is top it’s okay to switch.” says Becky Baldridge priority. n Email Blast Olathe, KS mom. The parent’s goal is the ( same as the pediatrician, a happy and Be the first to find out healthy child. When you find a doctor that Sarah Lyons is a mother of six children, is a good fit for your family, you can all including 2 year old triplets. With a full what’s happening! work together to reach this goal. house, they visit the pediatrician very You can the first to check When is it time to find a often. out the latest e-edition of new pediatrician? Pittsburgh Parent Magazine • If your child cries the whole time, and pittsburghparent.com’s fun that alone, is not cause to switch. However, if the doctor doesn’t seem to giveaways, recipes, care or make an effort to soothe your crafts and editorial tidbits child, you may have a problem. Sign up NOW on-line! July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 31 all about July

Sensory Friendly Afternoon

at Children’s Museum Pittsburgh pittsburghkids.org of courtesy Photo

(*PR): Pre-register

1 Saturday Allegheny County Summer Concert Series Stars at Riverview FREE musical FREE, thru Aug. 25, South Park; thru Sept. 3, Pittsburgh Parent Virtual Summer entertainment, 7-8:30pm, then enjoy Dollar Hartwood Acres Park, visit website for exact Activity & Camp Expo Visit our website Bank Cinema in the Park, FREE movies for the pittsburghparent.com and click on Virtual dates & times • alleghenycounty.us/special- entire family, dusk, Saturdays thru Aug. 26, Summer Activity & Camp Expo, thru August! events/summer-concert-series.aspx Riverview Park • pittsburghpa.gov/citiparks/ riverview-jazz-series Pittsburgh Parent Virtual Education Expo Planes and Games - Woodworking and Visit our website pittsburghparent.com and Children’s Games at Old Economy Village Groundhog Festival Children’s activities, click on Virtual Education Expo, thru August! 19th century trade demonstrations and other rides, carnival food, live entertainment & more, exciting activities, all day, 10am-5pm, Old July 1-8, downtown Punxsutawney Reality Tours Interactive program that gives Economy Village, Ambridge • groundhogfestival families the tools needed to reduce the risk of • oldeconomyvillage.org substance abuse, for parents & their children ages 10 & up • For info on locations, dates & McSummerfest 2017 A family-oriented, 2 Sunday times visit candleinc.org fun-filled week long festival featuring live nightly entertainment, food, games, carnival rides & Sunday Evening Summer Band Concerts Dollar Bank Cinema In The Park Grab more, Heritage Park, McDonald Free, live music, 7-9pm, every Sunday thru Aug. a blanket or lawn chair and head out for an • mcdonaldfire.com 27, outdoors on the Diamond, Ligonier unforgettable evening of free cinema under the • ligonier.com stars, dusk, thru August 30, visit pittsburghpa. Star Party Dusk (weather permitting), July 1, 28 & 29, Wagman Observatory, Deer Storytime and More First Sunday of each gov/citiparks/cinema-in-park, for the 8 different month, ages 3-9 with an adult, discover nature locations & days of the week Lakes Park; July 14 & 15, Mingo Creek Park Observatory, Mingo Creek Park • wp.3ap.org through a picture book read-aloud, related Allegheny County Movies in the Park game, craft project or nature walk, 2pm, Pow- FREE, 8pm, thru Aug. 19, sunset, visit the International Mud Day Celebration dermill Nature Reserve, Rector website for dates, locations & movies Activities including puddle jumping, frog, toad • carnegiemnh.org/powdermill & turtle hide and seek, archeology dig, mud • alleghenycounty.us/special-events/movies-in- Bach, Beethoven and Brunch A delightful the-parks.aspx wallow & building animal mud structures, noon- 3pm, Lakeview Beach, Moraine State Park buffet of classical melodies, 10:30am-noon, Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival • events.dcnr.pa.gov Sundays thru August 13, Mellon Park Family fun activities, art, live music, food & • pittsburghpa.gov/citiparks/bach-beethoven- more, thru July 2, Twin Lakes Park Flags of the United States Free, see and brunch • artsandheritage.com learn about the past and present flags of the United States, and the roles these flags All American Night Swim Kick off the Fourth Ropes Course Brand new ropes course open played in our history, July 1 & 2, 2-2:30pm of July festivities with a night swim, 8-10pm, at Highmark SportsWorks & 3-3:30pm, Raccoon Creek State Park, Zelienople Community Park Pool, Zelienople • carnegiesciencecenter.org Hookstown • visitbutlercounty.com Family activities, arts, • events.dcnr.pa.gov Ellwood City Festival DiscoverE: Hide and Seekers A story, craft crafts, fireworks & more, thru July 2, Ewing Hansel and Gretel Presented by Pittsburgh & an activity or game, a different theme each Park • ellwood-city-festival.net Festival Opera, July 1, 8 & 15, 11am, Hilda week, ages, 4-5 with an adult, 1-3pm & for Big Butler Fair Family fun, rides, food, live Willis Room, Winchester Thurston School ages 6-8 with an adult, 4:30-6:30pm, July 2, 9, entertainment, thru July 8, Prospect • pittsburghfestivalopera.org 16 & 23, Point State Park • bigbutlerfair.com • (*PR) events.dcnr.pa.gov 32 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 3 Monday Fantastic Mr. Fox Can clever Mr. Fox hatch a Westminster’s Annual Independence plan to save his family and friends from three Day Celebration Free, live music, fireworks, greedy, smelly, horrid farmers? Presented by 7:30, Brittain Lake, Westminster College, New Looking Glass Theatre, W-F-S, July 5-22, Little Wilmington • visitlawrencecounty.com/events Lake Theatre Co., Canonsburg • littlelake.org The Ever After Presented by South Park Northland Public Library Ongoing programs Children’s Theatre, performed on the outdoor that include, music, Legos, crafts, reading stage, M-T-W, July 3 & 5-12 & more for infants, teens, families & adults, • southparktheatre.com Pittsburgh • northlandlibrary.org Midlands 4th of July Celebration Children’s Family Fun Night at the Movies FREE, Lego activities, parade, fireworks & more, thru July 4, Batman Movie & family fun activities, July 5, Lincoln Park, Midland Avenue 8pm, South Park Amphitheater; July 6, 8pm, • visitbeavercounty.com North Park Boathouse Lawn • alleghenycounty.us/events.aspx Summer Lunchtime Concert Series 4 Tuesday – Independence Day Free, Wednesdays thru Sept. 27, Butler County Symphony Orchestra Office, Butler • butlersymphony.org/2017/05/summer- lunchtime-concert-series

6 Thursday Free Outdoor Discovery - Free, family oriented programs, July 6, 13, 20 & 27, Car- ousel Shelter, Alameda Park • co.butler.pa.us/ Parks%20Family Pa Fish for Free Day Fish-for-Free Days allow Summer Courtyard Concert Series Free, anyone (resident or non-resident) to legally fish presented by Westmoreland Cultural Trust, on Pennsylvania waterways on the designated Thursday evenings, 6:30-9:30pm, thru Aug. 31, days with NO FISHING LICENSE REQUIRED Megan’s Suite & S&T Bank Courtyard at The (Trout/Salmon and Lake Erie permits are also Palace Theatre. NOT required) • fishandboat.com EQT Flashes of Freedom Celebrate America Family fun, fireworks & more, noon-12am, 7 Friday downtown Pittsburgh Kid’s Carnival Children’s activities, 5-8pm, • downtownpittsburgh.com Market Street, New Wilmington Fourth of July Celebration Free, family fun, • livenewwilmington.com/events live entertainment, fireworks & more, 2pm- Slovenefest Children’s activities, music, ethnic 12am, Heinz Field • downtownpittsburgh.com food & more, fireworks Sat night, thru July 9, Roving Art Cart! Paint, sculpt, bead, Tue-Fri, Enon Valley • slovenefest.com thru August 4 at a park or playground near you, Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix 10-day for ages 5-12, visit pittsburghpa.gov/citiparks/ festival of races, car shows & motorsport roving-art-cart, for locations. events, thru 26, times and locations vary July 4th at Pearson Park Children’s activi- • pvpg.org/calendar ties, “Rapunzel”, fire truck rides, live music, Pyrotecnico, fireworks & more, 2-10:30pm, Pearson Park, Neshannock Township 8 Saturday • visitlawrencecounty.com Hermitage Arts Festival A celebration of the 4th of July Community Days Celebration visual and performing arts, thru July 9th, times Family fun, Firecracker 5K, parade, fireworks & vary, Rodney White Olympic Park, Hermitage more, Zelienople • visitbutlercounty.com • visitmercercountypa.com Family Concert Series Free family fun, July Hopewell Park Fest Children’s activities, food, 4, 11, 18 & 25, Old Felow Gazebo, Alameda music & more, 5-10pm, Hopewell Community Park • co.butler.pa.us/Parks%20Family Park, Aliquippa • hopewelltwp.com National Picnic Day Children’s activities, live 5 Wednesday entertainment, fresh Amish food & more, 10am- 5pm, Volant • volantshops.com/events Summer Concerts Free, family friendly, July 5, 9, 14 & 19, 7pm, Peterswood Park Amphitheater, Venetia • peterstownship.com continued on page 34 July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 33 calendar... continued from page 33 Western PA Balloon Quest Hot air balloons, Saxonburg Carnival Pet parade, water battle, live entertainment, food, fireworks & more, thru rides & more July 17-22, Saxonburg • svfc.com 9 Sunday July 16, Scotland Meadows Park Sunday Science & Nature Program • visitlawrencecounty.com/events-calendar 18 Tuesday Second Sunday of each month, Nature Talk for Techs Car Seat Inspections Technicians will adults, participants can drop off your children Disney’s Newsies Presented by the teach you how to correctly transport children, a ages 8-13 at Nature Explorers, a hands-on Pittsburgh CLO, thru July 23, Benedum Center hands-on educational service, not an installation investigation of the natural world, 2pm, • pittsburghclo.culturaldistrict.org service, 3-6:30pm, Westinghouse Recreation Powdermill Nature Reserve, Rector Center, Forest Hills • patechs.com Jacktown Fair Family fun, carnival rides, food • carnegiemnh.org/powdermill & more, thru July 22, Jacktown Fairgrounds, Cranberry Township Community Days Kids Kids’ Day at Schenley Plaza Face painting, Wind Ridge • jacktownfair.org area, car cruise, concerts, carnival & more, thru lawn games, free rides on PNC Carousel & July 15, Cranberry Township Community Park Little Raccoons: Children’s Walk Free, for more, 2nd Sunday of each month thru Oct., • ctcchest.org/community-days ages 1-3, take a walk and then enjoy a story noon-4pm • visitpittsburgh.com after, 10-11am, July 18 & Aug. 8, Raccoon Horse Trading Days Family fun, old-fashioned Peter Pan July 9-16, Comtra Theatre, State Park • (*PR) events.dcnr.pa.gov food, music, concerts & more thru July 15, Cranberry Twp. • comtratheatre.org Zelienople • horsetradingdays.com 19 Wednesday 10 Monday Family Fun Days Photo booth, face painting, 15 Saturday magician, giveaways, meet-and-greet with your Go Girls Kayaking Evening of kayak Summer Movie Series Under the Stars favorite characters,1-3pm., July 19, Boyce Park instruction and fun in this very popular sport, Finding Dory, 3rd Saturday of each month, thru Wave Pool; July 20, South Park Wave Pool; July girls ages 10-15, Beach 2, Pymatuning State Sept. 16, New Wilmington Borough Park 26, Settlers Cabin Wave Pool; July 27, North Park, Jamestown • (*PR)events.dcnr.pa.gov • visitlawrencecounty.com/events-calendar Park Swimming Pool • county.allegheny.pa.us Saint Sebastian Parish Festival Kids’ Zone, Summerfest Celebration of the arts, food, Summer Music Festival Children’s activities, bingo, food booths, rides & more, 6:30-10pm, artists, kid’s crafts, music & more, 3-8pm, New live music & more, 6-8:30pm, Slippery Rock thru July 15, Saint Sebastian Parish, Pittsburgh Wilmington • westminster.edu Park Rotary Pavilion, Slippery Rock • ssebastianparish.org • slipperyrockpark-rec.org Pine Twp. Community Day Children’s activi- 11 Tuesday ties, live music, fireworks & more, 4pm-dusk, Pine Community Park, Wexford 20 Thursday Sensory Friendly Afternoon Individuals • twp.pine.pa.us with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Sensory Monty Python’s SPAMALOT Thur to Sat, Sensitivities can enjoy a fun, friendly experience Chippewa Township Community Days July 20-22 & 27-29, 8pm; Sun Matinees July Kid’s activities, music, food, vendors, petting in a comfortable and accepting environment, 23 & 30, 2pm, Stage 62, Andrew Carnegie Free zoo, fireworks & more, 3-11pm, Wrights Field, 1-5pm, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh Library & Music Hall, Carnegie • stage62.org Beaver Falls • chippewa-twp.org • pittsburghkids.org Shannock Valley Community Festival Old Fashioned Day in the Park Arts & crafts, Movies in the Park Free family fun, popcorn Family friendly, carnival food & rides, live food, old-fashioned games, magic shows & & movie, 8:30pm, July 11, Good Dinosaur & entertainment, pony rides, fireworks & more, more, 11am-5pm, Brandy Springs Community July 24, Finding Dory, Masonic Shelter, Alameda thru July 22, Shannock Valley Community Park, Park, Mercer • visitmercercountypa.com Park • co.butler.pa.us/Parks%20Family Rural Valley • svcfestival.com WaterFire Music, food, interactive arts, fire The Snow Queen A Butler Little Theatre 12 Wednesday performers & more, 1-11pm, at dusk WaterFire Summer Youth Production, thru July 23, Butler begins, July 15, Aug. 19 & Sept. 23, Downtown Little Theatre • bltgroup.org Kohl’s Hard Heads Helmet Program Free Sharon • waterfiresharonpa.org/about helmets & fittings, while supplies last, July 12, Kohl’s Dept. Store, West Mifflin, 5-7pm & July 21 Friday 20, 6-8pm, Boyce Park Skate Park, Pittsburgh 16 Sunday East Brady Area Riverfest Children’s • chp.edu/injury-prevention/safety/wheels/ Center Township Annual Community Day activities, live music, rides, fireworks & more, kohls-helmet/fitting-schedule Food, games, craft & more, 4-10pm, Fred thru July 23, Graham Field, East Brady • sites. Family Fun Night at the Movies FREE, Taddeo Municipal Park, Aliquippa • ctboc.com google.com/site/eastbradyriverfest1 Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them Jefferson County Fair Fair food, rides, ATV Night at the Movies Free, dusk, Townsend & family fun activities, July 12, 8pm, South racing, farm animals, live entertainment & more, Park, New Brighton • nbarc.net/events.html Park Amphitheater; July 13, 8pm, North Park July 16-22, Jefferson County Fair Grounds, Boathouse Lawn Brookville • jeffcofair.com Movies in the Park Free, come early for a • alleghenycounty.us/events.aspx craft/activity then sit back and enjoy a family friendly movie, dusk, Pine Park Gazebo, Pine 17 Monday Community Park, Wexford • twp.pine.pa.us 13 Thursday Beauty and the Beast Presented by South Downtown Sounds Free monthly concert, Park Children’s Theatre, performed on the 2nd & 4th Thursday thru September, 6:30pm, outdoor stage, M-T-W, July 17-26 Joseph D. Monteleone Youth Festival Park • southparktheatre.com • facebook.com/DowntownSoundsGroveCity

34 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 22 Saturday 27 Thursday Open Streets Pittsburgh City streets close Super Science Saturday – Scientist Fayette County Fair Carnival rides, live down for a few hours of good, healthy fun, Takeover Family-friendly hands-on activities, entertainment, concession stands & more, thru including walking, running, biking and skating experiments, demonstrations & more, noon- August 5, Fayette County Fairgrounds, Dunbar through the streets of Pittsburgh, Doughboy to 4pm, Carnegie Museum of Natural History • fayettefair.com Downtown, times vary • opensteetspgh.org • carnegiemnh.org/programs/superscience Chalk the Block! Local folk musicians, old 28 Friday 31 Monday fashioned summertime games & chalk art Children’s Summer Arts Festival Free The Emperor’s New Clothes Presented by competition, 10am-7pm, Uptown Somerset activities, color sidewalks, make giant bubbles, South Park Children’s Theatre, performed on the • somersetinc.org puppets & more, ages 3-13, 11am-3pm, Arts + outdoor stage, M-T-W, July 31-August 9 Bike Safety Rodeo Bike safety course, bike Education at the Hoyt, New Castle • southparktheatre.com inspection, helmet fitting, refreshments, prizes & • hoytartcenter.org/contact more, parking lot next to Kid’s Castle Play- Picklesburgh All things pickled, local ground, Cranberry Twp. Community Park musicians, food & more, Downtown Pittsburgh, • twp.cranberry.pa.us thru July 29, the Roberto Clemente Bridge, Most Every Day Boyce Mayview Park Youth Triathlon Downtown Pittsburgh • picklesburgh.com Swim...Bike...Run, ages 7-9 & ages 10-12, Friday Night Flicks - The Lego Batman Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Free 7:30-9am, Boyce Mayview Park Movie Free, dusk, Peterswood Park programs for all ages year-round, library • (*PR) register.chronotrack.com/r/28291 Amphitheater, Venetia • peterstownship.com information • carnegielibrary.org Carnegie Museum of Art Mon-Wed & 23 Sunday 29 Saturday Fri-Sat, 10am-5pm; Thur, 10am-8pm; Sun, Clarion County Fair Children’s barn, carnival Healthy Family Day Kid-friendly cooking Noon-5pm; Tue: CLOSED • cmoa.org rides, food, live entertainment & more, July demonstration, lemonade, Family Dance Party, Mon-Wed 23-29, Redbank Valley Municipal Park, Fairmont Museum of Natural History Hands-On Harley Davidson & more, 10am-5pm, & Fri-Sat, 10am-5pm; Thur, 10am-8pm; Sun, City • clarioncountyfair.com Children’s Museum Pittsburgh Noon-5pm; Tue: CLOSED • carnegiemnh.org • upmchp.us/healthyfamilyday4 Carnegie Science Center Sun-Fri, 24 Monday Movies in the Park - Teenage Mutant 10am-5pm & Sat, 10am-7pm Free, Kids’ History Fun Days Games, crafts, Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows • carnegiesciencecenter.org hands-on colonial cooking & more thru July 26, dusk, Rotary Amphitheater, Cranberry Twp. Community Park • twp.cranberry.pa.us Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh 9am-1pm, Old Stone House, Slippery Rock Open daily 10am-5pm • pittsburghkids.org • (*PR) oldstonehousepa.org/events Madcap Puppets Present “Monster of Puppet show about monsters The Andy Warhol Museum Mon, Closed; Ice Cream Social Family games,sundae bar Baseball” slipping into the ball park to join the history and Tue-Thur, Sat & Sun, 10am-5pm; Fri, 10am- (BYOB-bring your own bowl), prizes for most 10pm • warhol.org unique & biggest bowl, 2-4pm, Pine Park tradition of baseball through songs, stories & Playground, Wexford • (*PR) twp.pine.pa.us poems, 10-11:15am, Chatham University Eden Fort Ligonier Mon-Sat, 10am-4:30pm & Hall Campus, Gibsonia Sun 11am-4:30pm, through Nov. 1, Ligonier • chatham.edu/summerseries • fortligonier.org 25 Tuesday Youth Field Day Free, ages 8-16, trap Fort Necessity Open daily, 10am- Celebrate the Bloom Nature explorations, shooting, muzzle loading, archery, boat safety & 5pm, Point State Park, Pittsburgh • engaging demonstrations, local artisans, live more, 8am-4pm, Mammoth Park, Mt. Pleasant heinzhistorycenter.org music, food & more, 9am-6pm, Jennings • co.westmoreland.pa.us Fort Pitt Museum Open daily, 10am-5pm, Environmental Education Center, Slippery Rock Rain Day Festival Children’s activities, live Point State Park, Pittsburgh • celebratethebloom.wordpress.com entertainment, arts, crafts, food & more, 11am- • heinzhistorycenter.org 9pm, downtown Waynesburg Friendship Hill National Historic Site 26 Wednesday • rainydayfestival.com 9am-5pm, through Sept., Point Marion Family Fun Night at the Movies FREE, The Movies in the Park - Elf Free popcorn & • nps.gov movie, 8:30pm, North Strabane Municipal Park, Secret Life of Pets & family fun activities, July The Duquesne Incline Open 365 day a 26, 8pm, South Park Amphitheater; July 27, Canonsburg • northstrabanetwp.com year, West Carson St., Pittsburgh 8pm, North Park Boathouse Lawn • duquesneincline.org • alleghenycounty.us/events.aspx 30 Sunday The Monongahela Incline Open 365 day Schoolhouse Rock Live! JR. Presented by Concordia Summer Festival Free, children’s a year, Station Square, Pittsburgh Looking Glass Theatre, W-F-S, July 26-Aug. 12, activities, live entertainment, picnic-themed • portauthority.org Little Lake Theatre Co., Canonsburg food & more, noon-6pm, Lund Care Center, • littlelake.org Cabot • concordialm.org Please submit info for our August Calendar by July 12 [email protected]

July 2017 • PITTSBURGH PARENT 35 editor’s note... continued from page 4 Shhh! Don’t tell them policy is important not only for your child, but others as well. n • Sign up for the PA Early Education you didn’t want to go eNews – this newsletter will keep I’ve got a little secret when it comes you up to date on new research on Judy M. Miller is a freelance writer living in early education and what’s happen- to daddy daughter dates: I often encour- age my husband to take our daughter to the Midwest and a mom to four children, ing in Pennsylvania. You can stay up all of whom have spent time in daycare places I would rather not go. You know to date with the latest information when young. She is the author of What what I mean - those noisy, crowded, from the PA Office of Child Develop- To Expect From Your Adopted Tween and ment and Early Learning through this high-up-in-the-air places you may not Writing to Heal Adoption Grief: Making monthly e-newsletter which informs always be all that crazy about either. Connections & Moving Forward. early learning professionals, the early The fact is, great daddy daughter date childhood community, school district destinations are often raucous, dusty or staff, policymakers, community lead- sweaty places moms might rather avoid. video games... continued from page 27 ers and the public on developments As for when they choose places I enjoy in early childhood education and care Screen awareness visiting, that’s okay. I can take a pass. in Pennsylvania. The newsletter is free Video games and other educational and open to anyone. I’m perfectly happy staying behind so my devices are not necessarily devoid of husband and daughter can have some benefits, says Seeta Pai, managing direc- Every word, every letter, every action adventures together that are just about tor of education and research at Com- on behalf of quality early learning makes a the two of them. n mon Sense Media. “Some media may difference! n help young kids develop certain 21st Author, journalist and writing coach century skills that aren’t available through Christina Katz tries not to dance a jig after other means,” says Pai. “But we’re talking her husband and daughter leave for some about well-designed products used in the together time, but she usually just can’t right circumstances with the right adults.” Patricia Poshard, Editor stop herself. That means media that takes the place of parental interaction – or serves as a babysitter for busy parents – won’t choosing daycare... continued from page 23 have much learning value, no matter how great the content. Co-viewing and play- cost of Autism... continued from page 15 members wear gloves when cleaning up ing video games together allows parents bodily fluids. How are the rooms cleaned to connect what’s happening on-screen that your child will be in? Are cots disin- to real life, providing the vital context that Finding purpose fected? Is bedding washed or sent home While these statistics and numbers fuels learning, says Pai. “So after a trip with you on a consistent basis? Are the to the zoo, you might play a computer may seem overwhelming, it should be tables and other furniture appropriately noted that financial burden or lack thereof game or use an iPad app about animals child-sized? Are the toilets and sinks? and see if you can find animals that your is not all there is to life. Mandell notes that What is the outdoor play area like? through his work, he has met parents child saw at the zoo.” Young kids need that struggled, but have also found their Assess the communication style parents to help bridge the gap between raison d’être through those struggles. How proactive is the daycare with the screen and real life, she says. “They don’t feel hopeless,” he relays. communication? Will you get a summary Definitive answers on the educational “They have found a sense of purpose. of your child’s day, down to the number value of media use for young kids may be That purpose is to take care of their child of dirty diapers and time and length of years away, says Pai. In the meantime, and to improve the system in which we her nap? Will you be called immediately Common Sense Media offers Learning provide or refuse care. Because the prob- if there is a concern? Is the caregiver ap- Ratings, a program that offers “best for lem is not with the person with autism or proachable for questions and discussion? learning” ratings and reviews for video their family, but with the system.” n games and apps. The ratings (currently in Understand expectations the daycare BETA testing) are designed to help par- has of you and visa-versa ents navigate the confusing world of kids’ Brynne Conroy is a Pittsburgh-based Are you expected to pay for a full-time media and help kids make better media personal finance writer. Her work and week over a certain number of days? choices, says Pai. insights have been featured in media How do vacations and holidays work? For the Stetners, though, the outlets such as Yahoo News, The Globe What hours is the daycare open? Will the lesson is clear: electronics can teach, and Mail, and Bridal Guide. daycare be able to take your child early or but they can’t replace life experience. keep her late if necessary? If so, what is From learning basics like letters and the charge for doing so? numbers to life skills like coordination and sportsmanship, Stetner says video games Understand the sick policy daddy/daughter... continued from page 19 and computers have made her kids Most daycares are specific about smarter. But when the weather’s nice, she • Attend local festivals – Arts, col- what constitutes a sick child or an sends the boys outside to race, wrestle lectibles, rocks, literary - whatever infection that will not be allowed to be and tumble in real-life dirt and grass – an she’s into! in daycare. A child in my son’s daycare experience no computer game could ever came down with the highly contagious replicate. n • Go out for ice cream cones – Take conjunctivitis (also known as pinkeye). I walks along a local scenic path or visit was relieved the affected child was sent Malia Jacobson is an award-winning a town park. home immediately and could not return to health and parenting journalist and daycare until a doctor said he was no lon- mom of three. Her latest book is Sleep ger contagious. As a parent you hope the Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and daycare will follow the policies they have Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, in place. Understand that adhering to the Tricks or Tirades.

36 PITTSBURGH PARENT • July 2017 Your Child. Our Care. Their Future.

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