AnniversaryMarch 2012 Brooklyn 14 YearFREE Family Where every child matters

Camp’s coming! Start planning for summer now Raising a can-do kid

Find us online at www.NYParenting.com

Brooklyn Family March 2012 Features columns 8 An unfinished revolution 6 Mommy 101 One mother wonders: Has the women’s By Angelica Seradova movement failed us at home? By Risa C. Doherty 10 Healthy Living by Danielle Sullivan 12 Find your child the right camp A step-by-step process to getting the most out 36 A Teen’s Take of the summer By Aglaia Ho By Denise Yearian 38 Family Health 14 Unsure about camp? By Dr. Pramod Narula, MD Some helpful strategies for children who want 40 Lions and Tigers to try it and Teens 34 Inside charter schools By Myrna Beth Haskell Independent public schools can offer an alternative — but first, there’s a lottery 45 It Figures By Cynthia Washam By Candi Sparks 42 Putting students first 52 The Book Worm How this organization is working to improve By Terri Schlichenmeyer the nation’s school systems 56 Death by Children By Allison Plitt By Chris Garlington 44 Rockabye baby 58 Our Relationships Getting your baby to sleep through the night By Joan Emerson, PhD By Belinda Mooney 60 Good Sense Eating 46 Moms find their stride by Christine M. Palumbo, RD How beginners can start moving, stay motivated, and live healthier 62 Growing Up Online By Deanne Haines by Carolyn Jabs 50 48 Bjork has app-eal 64 Divorce & Separation Students work with innovative technology, By Lee Chabin, Esq. compliments of an innovative pop star By Laura Varoscak-DeInnocentiis 66 Parents Helping Parents by Sharon C. Peters 50 Secrets to raising a can-do kid Children who pitch in around the house learn 78 New & Noteworthy responsibility, organization, and save their The hottest new products parents from doing all of the work By Sandra Gordon calendar of events 54 Childbirth as performance art An artist’s creative quest and a writer’s 68 Going Places commentary Take the family out and find out what’s By Tammy Scileppi going on in your town 61 Hindi club’s ‘Festival of Lights’ At this Queens High School, culture takes the special sections stage 16 Camp/Programs Directory By Sherlana Rooplal 76 Profile in courage Traumatic brain injury documentary recounts an incredible tale By Shavana Abruzzo 34

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 3 Letter from the publisher Fourteen years later 1998 was the year we has become an integral terrific programs of all kinds that not of street boxes have joined the many began Brooklyn Fam- part of the Brooklyn only keep kids occupied and safe, boxes that have been out there ily and from day one parent landscape. but that offer expanded horizons for the past 10 years. Continuing it was a labor of love. This month we begin and can fit every budget. There are to be the premier parent magazine My daughter was in el- the first of our CAMP FREE programs for qualified families in Brooklyn is important to us, as ementary school and ISSUES 2012. We will do as well as Day Camps and Residen- this magazine is our flagship and is there were things I another one next month tial Programs throughout the tri- where it all began. Thanks so much needed to know about and perhaps there will state area. to our many loyal advertisers, con- that we couldn’t find. be programs listed that We’ve had the pleasure of work- tributing and staff writers and to the It occurred to me that are not in this one, so ing with many of these camps and many parents who have helped put creating a great parent be sure to pick it up. programs for the last 10-14 years and us on the map. We live and publish in guide would help not only us, but Summer is such as special time for new ones seem to be popping up all Brooklyn and are proud of it! other parents as well for years to our children and for those of us who the time. One thing is for sure, family Visit us online on www.NYParent- come. The opportunity arose and have to work and who don’t get the life in Brooklyn has only gathered ing.com as well and like us on FACE- we began. summer off, through our children we more steam and it’s hard to find a BOOK ... NY Parenting. As always, As a working Mom, our family experience the thrill of weeks and community that is not loaded with thanks for reading! needed to know what our options weeks with no school and only sum- strollers. It’s a great and positive sign were for Education, After School Pro- mer fun ahead! and being at the core of this marvel- grams, Activities, Mini-Camps and In my day we mostly “hung out” ous movement, happily state our Summer Programs. In time these around the neighborhood and if we motto that “Every child matters!” became our core advertisers and were lucky got signed up for maybe Brooklyn Family is distributed Brooklyn Family took shape. I’m a swim class or would get to go to the throughout the borough and just proud to say that over the years it beach with a group. Today there are this past month a whole new group Susan Weiss-Voskidis, Publisher

Staff contact information

Publisher / Advertising / editoriAl: Advertising: Web or Print Address Susan Weiss (718) 260-4554 New York Parenting Media/CNG Publisher / business MAnAger: [email protected] or 1 Metrotech Center North Clifford Luster [email protected] 10th Floor sAles MAnAger / Advertising: Brooklyn, NY 11201 Sharon Noble circulAtion sPeciAl AdMinistrAtive AssistAnt: (718) 260-8336 www.NYParenting.com Tina Felicetti [email protected] sAles rePs: Lori Falco, Sharon Leverett, editoriAl Stephanie Stellaccio, Jay Pelc (718) 260-4554 Art director: Leah Mitch [email protected] Production director: On Man Tse lAyout MAnAger: Yvonne Farley The acceptance of advertising by New York Join the conversation on Facebook. Web designer: Sylvan Migdal Parenting Media does not constitute an endorse- New York Parenting Media has been recognized grAPhic designers: Arthur Arutyunov, ment of the products, services or information for editorial and design excellence by PPA. Charlotte Carter, Mauro Deluca, Earl Ferrer being advertised. We do not knowingly present any products or services that are fraudu lent or New York Parenting Media is published monthly misleading in nature. by New York Parenting Media/CNG. Subscription rate is $35 annually. Reproduction of New York MAnAging editor: Vince DiMiceli Editorial inquiries, calendar information, adver- Parenting Media in whole or part without writ- AssistAnt editors: Courtney Donahue, tising rates and schedules and subscription re- ten permission from the publisher is prohibited. Juliet Linderman quests may be addressed to New York Parenting All rights reserved. Copyright©2012 Readership: th Media, One Metrotech Center North, 10 Floor, 220,000. 2012 circulation audits by CAC & CVC. coPy editor: Lisa J. Curtis Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201. cAlendAr editor: Joanna Del Buono New York Parenting Media can also be reached contributing Writers: by calling (718) 250-4554, emailing family@ Risa Doherty, Allison Plitt, Candi Sparks, cnglocal.com or by visiting our website, Mary Carroll Wininger NYParenting.com. 4 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Brooklyn Parent Center Empowering Parents Through Information BCIDBCID 27 Smith Street, Second Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201 Brooklyn Center for 718-998-3000 Independence of the Disabled, Inc. www.bcid-bpc.org

Brooklyn Parent Center on the Road UFT Parent Outreach Host a free workshop for parents at your Committee Meeting school or organization Tuesday, March 13, 2012 • An Overview of the Special Education System Friday, June 1, 2012 - Laws & Advocacy 5 pm • An Overview of the Individual Education 3rd Annual Brooklyn Parent Program (IEP): Including the New IEP Center Conference Brooklyn UFT offi ce, • Pupil Transportation Long Island University, th • Parent Involvement in Schools 335 Adams Street, 24 fl . • Stress Management Brooklyn Campus • Evaluation & Placement: The Beginning & End of the IEP Process Free Admission! Effective School • Emergency PreparednessBCID *Breakfast *Lunch • Transition SAVE Leadership Teams (SLT) • Bullying THIS *Raffl e Prizes and How They Work 030423 DATE *Massages • Meet teachers and parents from schools that have an equal say in the Comprehensive Education Plan Workshops for Parents include: (CEP and school curriculum) • Special Education Mediation At the Brooklyn Public Library, there’s a place where all children can relax, play and have fun. • How to feel like you are really part • What To Do When Your Child Wants To: Date, Fostering an inclusive environment, we offer Travel And Be Independent of a team unique programs for children with and without • How to ask for things such as the • Project Shield - Criminal Justice and Com- disabilities from birth to age 12 at fi ve neighbor- munity Response to Sexual Assault Victims with hood libraries. Join us at the Brooklyn Heights school budget Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Library for a series of free parenting workshops • Preschool Related Services: What Are They, co-sponsored by the Brooklyn Parent Center. RSVP to Betty Zohar How To Get Them and Celebrating When They Are No Longer Needed All workshops are from 10 am to 12 noon. at 718-722-6937 • Hear Our Voice: LGBTQ Youth with Disabilities • A Father’s Perspective: Challenges & Triumphs Tue, March 6 The 3rd Annual Brooklyn Parent Center of Raising a Child with a Disability Stress & the Holidays Conference is a day of information, resources • Marriage & Parenting with a Disability Tue, April 24 and relaxation for parents of children with dis- Attention Defi cit Disorder & abilities, ages 3 to 21. The conference will take • Road Map To Transition: Middle School Attention Defi cit place on Friday, June 1, 2012 on the Brooklyn Through High School campus of Long Island University from 8:30 am • Me Time: It’s All About The Parent! Thu, May 17 to 4:00 pm. The 3rd Annual Brooklyn Parent Center Con- Helping the Struggling Reader: The conference is free and includes workshops, ference is sponsored by Brooklyn Center for One Size Does Not Fit All exhibitors, raffl e prizes, continental breakfast, Independence of the Disabled, the New York lunch with live musical entertainment and mas- State Department of Education and the Depart- Wed, June 6 sages. When asked their opinion about last ment of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Evaluation & Placement year’s conference, one parent said, “I enjoyed Professions, Long Island University, Brooklyn To register for a workshop, call this conference. This is my fi rst time attend- Campus. For more information about the confer- Ruth DiRoma at 718-998-3000 ing and I will defi nitely be here next year. This ence, call Revere Joyce, 718-998-3000. conference has just the right information.”

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 5 Parenting Babies & nutrition Navigating what baby should eat isn’t easy

y husband came down on me the other day for M “still giving the baby that crappy formula.” We had agreed to start feeding her pureed fruits and mommy 101 vegetables to supplement her milk, angelica seradova which I’ve been doing, but on this particular day, I admit, I was lazy and didn’t feed my 5-month old anything but formula. I felt guilty and I knew that my hus- band was right. If he knew that some- times I even give her bottled baby food, he’d die. Growing up in Slovakia, he was used to home-cooked meals made with vegetables picked from the garden. Eating out was unheard of or, “for people who don’t want to cook,” according to him, and he and his sis- ter only drank soda at Christmas, as a special treat. It wasn’t until he came to the U.S. that he had his first fast-food meal and he wasn’t impressed. Fast food, for him, is just a convenience, and he would never actually crave McDon- ald’s. My parents, however, would bribe me with a Happy Meal whenever I needed to behave and, to this day, I love the fries (and hash browns … and apple pies). But he loves home cooking and wants our daughter to feel the same. I get it, so I’ve really started look- ing at how we’re going to nourish her and, more importantly, get her to understand the difference between nutritious food and food that’s not so great. We started read- ing health journals and watch- ing documentaries on nutrition, the links between diet and most preventable diseases, and the epi- demic of obesity in this country. We got a lot more than we bargained for, and the result was a total nutrition overhaul. I guess that’s an We’re still in the early stages We immediately read all the labels added role of being a of our new way of life and I hope in our pantry and threw out every- parent — being a nutri- we stay in it for the long-term. Still, I thing with chemicals, leaving us with tionist as well. The good news is that can’t help but wonder what my hus- nothing but a few spices. Dramatic, our daughter is still a baby and we’re band eats at work or when I’m not but inspiring. The sad part is that we willing to make the changes now so around. As for me, maybe I won’t rush eat relatively “healthy” by New York she can grow up enjoying healthy off to buy my daughter a Happy Meal standards, and yet, we’re not con- foods and, hopefully, she’ll get a bet- any time soon, but I can treat myself scious of the food we’re putting into ter understanding of how important it to some fries every now and then, our bodies. is to eat right. can’t I?

6 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 “I couldn’t pick up my daughter.” Back pain can be debilitating, but we can help. The New York Methodist Back and Neck Pain Center is dedicated to providing patients with the best possible treatment for disorders of the spine. Using methods that may include physical therapy, medication, or even acupuncture, our team of specialists can help relieve back pain, no matter how intense. And if surgery is necessary, minimally invasive techniques are used whenever possible—letting you return to what’s really important. Your life. We fixed that. Back and Neck Pain Center

506 Sixth Street, Brooklyn • 718-369-BACK • www.nym.org

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 7 Home front For women, an unfinished revolution By Risa C. DoheRty women’s movement created a clear coordinating their families’ ever-com- One mother road map for women who joined the plex schedules. The study also indi- grew up in a changing world. In ranks of working mothers. Nonethe- cated that the work-family conflict is wonders: Has the 1960s and ’70s, women were less, we knew back in 1990 that em- traditionally framed as a challenge I no longer expected to stay home ployers expected fathers to focus all only to women. This conclusion is re- to care for the house and children, of their energy on their careers, even flective of the continuing stereotype the women’s but were told they could have it all: at the expense of their home lives. of the working mother as the parent the fulfilling career and the family. Women are under closer scrutiny to summon in a childcare crisis, while The one thing that no one ever ex- than men for skipping work for a fathers are generally believed to be movement plained, though, was how it would school function. Further, according free of such distractions at work. all work. to author Gail Collins, most work- failed us at Twenty-one years later, I am re- ing women end up second-guessing expectations and flecting on the factors that influ- themselves every time they pick behavior enced me when I first became a work over family, or vice versa. When I contacted Hochschild re- home? mother. Women fortunate enough to So, some women, like me, choose cently, she told me that she believes have a choice between working or to stay home, knowing that they that the mothers of my generation staying home make a difficult, life- would otherwise be responsible for have retreated in the battle for equal- changing decision, and their consid- “the second shift,” while others re- ity in the home front out of fear. erations have an impact on the lives main at work, but take on the major- “In the 1970s, working women often of all women in the workplace. ity of childcare for the family. Either married men who were unprepared way, the dream of having the perfect for the new demands, and they took ‘the Second Shift’ career and equality on the home jobs traditionally designed for men,” When my husband and I were front is still out of reach. she explained. These women strug- growing up, our mothers were wait- gled for parity at work, enduring long ing at home after school. We watched Stressed moms hours at the office, and their mar- Carol Brady, Wilma Flintstone and In a 2011 study in the American riages took the hit. She told me that Samantha Stevens happy at home, Sociological Review, Dr. Barbara not much has changed for my genera- raising the children, since there were Schneider of Michigan State Uni- tion, except that both marriages and no married, working mothers on TV. versity and Dr. Shira Offer of Bar jobs have become less secure. So, while the gender revolution raged Ilan University found that working I believe, to some extent, it is outside, inside our homes, role mod- women spend 10 hours more per a matter of expectations. In “The els had traditional duties. week than working men multitasking Second Shift,” Hochschild recog- Even my parents, who paid my housework and childcare. nized that many young women do way through college and law school, In contrast, the fathers’ multitask- not speak to their husbands about had their stamp of approval ready ing usually involved playing with the shared responsibility for child care if I decided to stay home with my children, while interacting with the and housework before it becomes children. After all, like me, they were office. The study analyzed data gath- an issue. But she thinks it goes well products of a traditional family envi- ered between 1999 and 2000 from beyond the issue of expectations. ronment. 500 families in middle-class subur- “It’s also a matter of behavior,” Arlie Hochschild’s “The Second ban and urban communities. Hochschild says, in that many men Shift,” hit the shelves in 1989, less The mothers found their multi- are fearful of being branded as less than a year before I got pregnant. tasking experiences more stressful committed to their careers if they In the book, Hochschild revealed than the fathers’, and reported that it spend more time with their children. that many working mothers came often led to domestic disputes. Collins notes that, as a result, home to face the “the second shift” The stresses from the home front many well-educated, high-achieving — and had to take on the majority of and the workplace cause a work- women who decided to stay home housework and childcare not equally life imbalance, leading to decreased were accused of surrendering. Their shared by their husbands. psychological well-being, according critics were concer ned that this could This concept was eye-opening to to the study. These stresses include ultimately have an adverse effect me, because I presumed that the mothers’ “mental labor” involved in on hard-won academic and work-re-

8 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 made within the home go hand-in- hand with the changes that need to A recent study be made at the office. found that working Hochschild looks forward to the day when we will catch up with Euro- women spend 10 pean progressive policies, citing Nor- way’s wonderland of limited hours and hours more per family-friendly benefits. She believes many Americans resist government week than working help in this area, until they think about men multitasking the possibilities for paid family and medical leave; affordable, subsidized housework and childcare; government incentives for flex-time; and job shares. childcare. One organization that is hoping to ensure that family life takes priority in the workplace is A Better Balance: I realized that young, sin- The Work and Family Legal Center in gle women entering the New York, a legal team that says it is workforce now may “fighting to give American workers have an understand- the time and flexibility they need to ing of how far we care for their families.” It hopes to have come, but transform the American workplace often have no and elevate the job of caregiving by sense of how far pushing family-friendly policies like we need to go. the New York State Fair Pay Act and paid family leave. The future for Co-President Dina Bakst recently working mothers testified before the New York State So, what is the outlook for my Assembly concerning discrimination daughter’s generation? Hoch- against pregnant women and moth- schild told me that our retreat ers in the workplace, and inequitable may become “a cautionary pay for part-time workers (predomi- tale to [the] next nantly women). generation,” and Legal analyst and author Lis women’s pay- Wiehl suggests that an overwhelmed checks may be- mother make a list of household come even more tasks, discuss it with her husband, critical to the and tell him she needs help, thereby family budget. giving him the opportunity to pitch in Schneider said and put the whole picture into focus. lated opportunities for women. Col- meals and emotional engagement that it would not be To me, though, the idea of merely lins concluded that such accusations with family is the root of a successful any different for the next generation pitching in seems to defeat the goal were unfounded despite this trend, gender revolution. — unless we do something about it. of re-directing the full responsibility because more women realized that “Without our noticing, over time, She believes we need to recognize for some tasks to a husband. they could not afford to stop work- American capitalism embraced em- that there are still gender biases in • • • ing, and because businesses were powerment, and it sidetracked care,” the workplace and in social situa- Change can come, but it will take starting to make changes to accom- she said. Men hand the caretaking tions, and that gender expectations time before more workplaces become modate working mothers. duties over to women, who then pervade every aspect of our lives. fully supportive of working mothers. hand them over to paid caregiv- We need to wake up and realize We still have a long way to go before Men needed at home ers, who, in turn, hand their own that gender bias, which seemed to all new mothers feel as though they So, has the women’s movement children over to others for care. have been taken care of, is not re- need not sacrifice their careers, their failed us? Hochschild, Schneider and Hochschild concluded that the big ally a thing of the past. We need to home lives, or their sanity as they Offer agree: it did not fail, it stalled. challenge is to “value and share the once again open a discussion and join the ranks of working mothers. We After all, women joined the ranks of duties of caring for loved ones.” obtain a more nuanced view of fam- need to begin thinking beyond our men in numerous fields previously When I spoke with Schneider by ily life, to better understand gender current limitations and understand off limits, and men now participate phone, she implied that the revolu- inequalities in the home. Schneider the possibilities of reawakening a dor- in child rearing more than ever. Dads tion, on its face, seems to have been was mindful of the need to raise mant vision for the future. have stepped up, says Schneider, won, but has many layers. many fathers’ levels of engagement Risa C. Doherty practiced law from and their roles have changed. “For ordinary persons, things with their children and told me that 1986 to 1990 and has been a freelance Still, when Hochschild shared with are the same [as they have always until we pay closer attention to the writer since 1995. She received a Silver me her new afterward for the 2012 been],” she explains, as we often do mom’s burden, the quality of family Award for Investigatory Reporting in edition of the “The Second Shift,” she not pay attention to “hidden inequal- time is at risk. March 2011 from the Parenting Media stressed the need to place a deep ities” in the home. So, it appears as though the be- Association. Read more at www.risa­ value on care, noting that loving When speaking with Schneider, havioral changes that need to be doherty.com.

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 9 HealtH Preventing sports injuries this spring pring is not only marked by its budding flowers and warmer S temperatures, but also by the HealtHy resurgence of our kids’ team sports. Many of our children are coming off living of competitive fall seasons and gear- Danielle Sullivan ing up to tackle another. While it’s well documented that sports provide children with a wealth of benefits, such as discipline, team- work, and physical fitness, when do they become too much? We’ve all seen those over-the-top little league parents screaming at their kids to perform and do better, to suck it up, and walk it off. It’s a fact that many children who suffer injuries have not been properly con- ditioned or have simply been pushed too far. With signs-ups and tryouts in full swing, here are some helpful tips to remember when your child joins the baseball, softball, or soccer team. For starters, it’s important to vary your child’s regimen. As an attend- ing orthopedic surgeon at the Hos- pital for Special Surgery, specializing in knee and shoulder surgery and sports medicine with special exper- tise in pediatric and adolescent knee problems, Dr. Robert Marx has seen his share of childhood injuries. Marx him be outside a lot, running around early, but let them be kids.” Empha- says that the most common injuries and enjoying some daily free play, size skill building, discipline, and are overuse injuries. so the whole body is exercised. This teamwork; make sure they are drink- “One cause is due to the increase not only allows him to use all of his ing plenty of fluids and getting plenty of ‘early specialization,’ which is when muscles — without concentrating on of sleep; and treat injuries with RICE a child specializes in a single sport just a few repetitive motions — but it (or Rest, Ice, Compression and El- as early as 7 years old,” he explains. also lets him enjoy childhood. evation). “Early specialization causes their bod- Marx, also a professor of orthope- “Their bodies are just as young as ies to submit to wear and tear from re- dic surgery and professor of public they are. They can’t train like profes- petitive stress of a constant athletic health at the Weill Medical College of sional athletes,” says Marx. “Kids are motion. In the spring, kids should be Cornell University, agrees. being pushed much too hard at too enjoying the outdoors — whether it’s “Staying active, in moderation, early of an age. Even worse, these on the playground or on a field, not throughout the year is extremely injuries are preventable.” still in the gym or indoor track as important for their overall health. Danielle Sullivan, a Brooklyn-born they’ve been using all winter.” By all means, let them run, play and mom of three, has worked as a writer Other common injuries are or- enjoy themselves, but keep in mind and editor in the parenting world for thopedic knee problems, such as — playing different sports through- more than 10 years, and was recently osteochondritis dessicans; pain and out the year can better help their honored with a Gold award for her mechanical symptoms associated muscles develop and not become health column by the Parenting Media with discoid meniscus; and anterior overly fatigued.” Association. Sullivan also writes for cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. So what can parents do to help Babble.com. Find her on Facebook and The best way to keep your child prepare kids for spring sports? Marx Twitter @DanniSullWriter, or find her at active and healthy is to simply let recommends enforcing “good habits JustWriteMom.

10 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Putting Family Safety & Satisfaction First for Over 45 Years! WE KNOW YOU HAVE ENOUGH TO WORRY ABOUT! elite WE’RE HERE WHEN YOU NEED US… fitness PARKSIDE AUTO CARE studio “We Heal Automobiles” yoga pilates • Foreign & Domestic Repairs & Service rowing • NYS Inspection Station cycling • Environmentally Conscious Practices childcare • Service You Can Trust rebounding

www.parksideautocare.com senior fitness 718-852-7969 pre/post natal 584 Union Street • Brooklyn • NY 11215 children’s classes personal coaching weight loss/nutrition rehabilitation therapies holistic health counseling aerobic/functional exercise massage/thai yoga bodywork

Five Points Learning is an innovative Tutoring, Test Prep results-driven learning program that & Enrichment teaches students how to achieve. • Math Tutoring • Web Design www.elitetrainingandfitness.com Our AWESOME academic coaches • Science Tutoring • Entrepreneurship are passionate about teaching & • Homework Help • Community are able to motivate students to • SAT Test Prep Service 111 Union Street (off Columbia) succeed. • SHSAT Test Prep • Academic Clubs Carroll Gardens/Brooklyn We believe quality programming • NY Regents Prep • FREE Workshops should be accessible by all • NY State Test Prep & More... families. As such, our programs are very affordable. We also offer: PARK SLOPE (718) 839-6388 Call for info: • FREE Academic Consultations 641 President St • Suite 101 • NO Termination Fees 718-596-0006 • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee BAY RIDGE (347) 492-0521 CALL TODAY TO LEARN MORE! 8508 5th Avenue • 3rd Floor www.fivepointslearning.com

March 2012 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 11 camps Find your child the right camp

By Denise yearian a soccer junkie doesn’t mean he participation in school, etc. A step-by- might not like — or won’t be good Above all, don’t let your own ap- ast summer, my kids did at — arts and crafts,” says Krakow. prehensions keep you from sending step process something they had never “Camp is a great place to try some- your child to camp. L done before: went to sleep- thing different, because everyone is “If you keep him home because away camp. You know, the kind having new experiences.” of your anxiety about separation, to getting the with cabins, canteens, and lots of Once your child has decided you’re short-changing him,” says bugs and dirt. I must admit, I was a upon the type of camp he wants, Krakow. “If your youngster is asking bit apprehensive about shipping all explore the options. Find out about to go away to camp, chances are he most out of three of them off at once. I mean, the various programs each one of- is ready.” what if they got homesick? What if fers and ask plenty of questions. On the first day of camp, help the summer I got “kid sick?” Nonetheless, they According to Krakow, most parents your child get settled, then leave. were begging — no, pleading — to find out whether there’s quality in- “Don’t stick around too long,” go, so we packed their bags and off struction and enough time for their says Krakow. “If you drive your they went — for seven whole days. child to participate in the said ac- child to camp, he may cling to you Did they get homesick? No! In fact, tivity, and stop there. But, he says, on the way up. Remember, this is they were having so much fun they parents should take a look at the something new, and it’s natural — didn’t want to come home! big picture. even for a veteran camper — to “Summer camp, especially sleep- “Probe to learn about other seg- be a little hesitant.” Once there, away camp, is often a wonderful, ments of the program,” he recom- however, many kids will shift from growth-filled, learning experience,” mends. “What concepts or philoso- clingy to embarrassed in front of said Doron Krakow, national direc- phy does the camp espouse? What their friends, and parents are often tor of Young Judaea Camp. Parents, type of child does it attract? What slow to pick up on this. however, often underestimate the will my child do through the course Even before you send your child benefits of camp and what it will do of a typical day?” If the camp has a to camp, mail him a letter. This way for their children. brochure, read it carefully. This way he’ll have something to open when “Some parents may think their you can match your agenda with the mail arrives on the first day. It money is better spent elsewhere that of the camp’s and provide the doesn’t have to be anything fancy than on camp fees, particularly if experience you want for your child. — a note saying you’re thinking of they themselves were not at camp Not sure if your child is devel- him and hoping he’s having a good as a youngster,” says Krakow. But a opmentally ready for camp? Have time will do. If you do not have time camp experience will provide your a trial run. Send him to visit a rela- to write every day, that is OK. Just child with invaluable life lessons, tive for the weekend. How did he try to write as often as you can. such as how to be responsible, do away from home? Did he sleep When my kids went to camp, I solve problems, and get along with well? Was he able to care for him- sent them notes every other day, others. self (brush his teeth, taking a bath, and included jokes and riddles. And So how do you go about finding change his clothes)? Did he adjust their father, who is a great cartoon- the right camp? First, talk it over to new or different foods? These ist, drew pictures with captions for with your child. What are his in- and other questions will help you them, too. terests? Does he like softball? Soc- decide if your child is ready for Although I was faithful at letter cer? Music? The performing arts? camp. writing, my kids weren’t. All week Finding a camp with activities your Even if your child did well on a long I waited for something — any- child will enjoy is important. At the trial run, spend a few minutes talk- thing — but received nothing. same time, encourage him to try ing with the camp director. Tell him “If your child is a poor corre- new things. about your child — how he inter- spondent, don’t take it personally,” “Just because [your child] is acts with other children, his level of says Krakow. “Camp is a full-time 12 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 job for kids. Some may be inclined they can attract bugs, raccoons, on time, and come prepared with Not sure if your child is to share it all with their parents, and other outdoor creatures. a few extra plastic bags. You may others will get so caught up in the When preparing to send your need them, especially if your child developmentally ready for moment that promises to write are child to camp, avoid purchasing has wet clothes or muddy shoes camp? Have a trial run. forgotten.” new clothes unless he really needs that need to be transported. A good rule of thumb is, “No them. Chances are, they’ll get On the ride home, listen to news is good news.” In other words, soiled, stained, or mildewed be- your child. More than likely he’ll if you don’t hear from your child, it fore they get home — if they even be eager to share his experiences probably means he’s having a great get home! Economically speaking, with you — who he met, what he time and enjoying his newfound you’re better off rounding up old did, and the funny things that hap- freedom. clothes and shoes (towels and wash pened. And if you look real close Whether your child goes to camp clothes, too) and saving the new you may find that he’s grown a lit- for one week or the whole summer, items for after camp. tle. Not just in height, but in depth send a care package. Chances are, Several weeks before your child of character. Camp has a way of the other kids will get one and you attends camp, keep his schedule helping kids grow — by boosting don’t want your child to feel left out. open and stress-free. This will their self-esteem, increasing their The package doesn’t have to be ex- allow him plenty of time to relax sense of responsibility, and helping travagant, just something to let him and prepare for the big event. If, for them mature in their relationships know you’re thinking of him. Items example, your family comes back with others. could include: a yo-yo, his favorite from a vacation on Friday and you Who knows? Your child may even magazine, a pack of gum, candy, scoot your child off to camp on greet you with the same words mine or some other goodie. Just be sure Sunday, he may experience some did: “Hey, Mom! Camp was so much that if you’re sending food items, anxiety and tension. A better idea is fun. Can I go again next year?” you know what the rules are about to plan major summer events with a Denise Yearian is the former editor food in cabins. Camps often don’t break in between. of two parenting magazines and the allow food in the cabins because On the last day of camp, arrive mother of three children. March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 13 camps Illustration by Veronica Semenova Unsure about camp? ummer camp is a wonderful Rookie days camp community if he later has to Some helpful opportunity for children to There are many resident camps change communities to add addi- S try new activities and learn that offer rookie days, which are tional weeks of camp to his summer. life lessons like independence and designed to give future campers a Find a longer session camp that of- strategies for self-confidence. There are many kids chance to experience the camp in fers an introductory shorter session who know when they are ready to session by joining in on activities be- to test the waters. children who go to camp, but there are also many fore going to camp. Parents can tour others who might be unsure. the camp while their children are shorter resident The American Camp Association, enjoying the activities. Rookie days camp session for want to try it New York and New Jersey, has some are a wonderful way for children and first-time and tips on summer camp programs for their parents to get a feel for what younger campers children who would like to give camp camp is like, and to determine if it is Many resident camps offer two- a try, but may be hesitant about what the right fit for the child. week or four-week sessions for young to expect. and first-time campers. Going away shorter camp to camp for two or four weeks as a Day camp sessions first-time camper is a good way to get Day camp is the best of both There are both day and resident accustomed to camp life. There are worlds — home and camp. Days camps that offer shorter camp ses- many camps that will allow campers are filled with activities like boat- sions. A pure short session camp is to stay the full session if they don’t ing, sports, swimming, and arts and a great option if you plan on con- want to leave after the shorter camp crafts, but at the end of the day, chil- tinuing to send your child to only session. dren go home. short camp sessions. The American Sending your child to a camp that Some day camps partner with res- Camp Association doesn’t recom- offers these shorter sessions for the ident camps, so day campers can try mend testing out summer camp with first year allows your child to stay at out staying overnight for a few days. short session camps that don’t offer the same camp for longer sessions This can give them a feel for being longer sessions if your ultimate goal in the future. away from home and what resident is to find a longer camp experience For more, visit the American Camp camp is like without committing to for your child. Camp builds commu- Association, New York and New Jersey’s a resident camp for the whole sum- nity, and you don’t want your child camp database at searchforacamp.org, mer. to become part of a short session or call (212) 391-5208.

14 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Special Advertising Section March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 15 We’re Camp/Programs 2012 ready Directory For Aviator Sports and age 4 or 14. Our staff and teaching suMMer. Recreation specialists are dedicated to providing a vibrant learning environment for are you? Hangar 5 at Floyd Bennett Field 718-758-7550 or www. every child. BAX provides an excellent aviatorsummercamps.com child-to-staff ratio and ensures that Who needs Maine or Vermont each child is treated as an individual. Aviator Sports and Recreation is when you’ve got Brooklyn Friends? offering an All Star Day Camp and a “I love the respect that is given to variety of specialty sport camps this children and each other, the free- our two summer programs, suMMer CaMP for summer catering to ages 3-15. The dom of expression, the safe feeling, 2 to 7 year olds, and suMMer arTs for 8 to 14 year All Star Day camp will be offering the connections my child has made, instruction in rock climbing, gym- the non-competitive attitude, the olds, provide a “summer in the city” experience nastics, and ice skating along with a feeling at home, the generosity.” for friends in three camp sessions, from JuNe 13 variety of sports, group games, field - BAX parent trips and craft activities. The sports through JuLy 27. recreational athletics and swim- camps specialize in basketball, soc- Summer at Beansprouts ming, field trips, special guests and master classes cer & hockey. Camp hours are 9 am 453 Sixth Avenue are part of the BFs experience. to 4 pm, both pre and post camp 718-965-8573 or www. supervision is available along with beansproutsnurseryschool.com transportation service from Brooklyn, A Park Slope Fun in the Sun tradi- Queens and Manhattan. sibling and early registration tion since 1980, for children in Pre-K discounts are available. through 3rd Grade, from 8:30-3:00 Barking Cat Studio Art with Early Bird and After Camp Learn more on the BFS website: in the City Summer Day hours available. A professional staff Camp will care for your summer campers in www.brooklynfriends.org/summer 65 Bond Street, air-conditioned classrooms and in a 375 Pearl Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 718-855-8050 or www. well stocked beautiful yard. Weekly barkingcatstudio.net or info@ trips, instructional swimming, arts & barkingcatstudio.net crafts, sports and park outings. Call Barking Cat Studio’s Art in the for more information City Summer Day Camp – like no other! Offers Brooklyn kids from The Brooklyn Dance BROOKLYN ARTS EXCHANGE one to eight weeks of creative fun, Center I daily friendly physical movement, 2106 West 6th Street; 718-996- and creative, amusing, thought- 0319 arts and artists in progress provoking daily morning adventures 421 Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn | 718.832.0018 to museums and fun places around The Brooklyn Dance the city to inspire daily art projects. Center II Fun weekly themes!. Weekly All- 6720 20th Ave; 718-256-5320 Spring Break Day Trips too! Experienced, talented The Brooklyn Dance staff. CPR certified. 3:1 Ratio! Center III Choose how many weeks you want. Arts Program Space is limited, register now! July 9110 5th Ave 718-333-5767 2-August 24. Monday-Friday. 8:30 The Brooklyn Dance Centers are April 9–13 am to 3:30 pm. Ages 4-10. Early/ offering two camps this summer! 9:00am-3:00pm Extended Day available. Includes: The Fairy Princess Dance Camp for Studio art supplies. All trips and ages 4 to 9. Program includes dance, for kids currently in grades K-5 admissions, daily snacks, T-shirt, creative movement, tumbling, arts camp bag, weekly observation and crafts and fun fairytale themes. book and traveling art kit. $435 per The summer dance intensive is for Summer Arts week* + $30 registration fee per pre-teens and teens. Both programs family (*July 2 week is $350). are two three-week sessions start- Program ing the week of July 9th. Summer BAX/ Brooklyn Arts classes include Pre-Ballet for tod- July 2 – August 17 Exchange dlers. Teen adult summer classes offered in Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Hip 421 Fifth Avenue; 718-832-0018; 9:00am-3:00pm Hop, Tap, Bellydance, Breakdance, www.bax.org; or e-mail info@ Flamenco, Body Workout, Pilates, for kids entering grades K-6 bax.org Yoga and Zumba. Call for more At BAX, we foster creativity, encour- information and details Financial Assistance Available age exploration and provide a positive, nurturing environment to unearth your child’s inner artist. Brooklyn College www.bax.org/youth/school-breaks Children connect to one another and Preparatory Center For to our staff and experience the exhil- The Performing Arts aration of being an artist whether at Continued on page 18 16 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Special Advertising Section $75 Off WARNING: Your Child Registration Could Become and Testing Limited Time CRAZY Offer! About Enrolling Now MATH MATH TUTORING EXPERTS Boosts Confidence Fun Environment Proven Method Affordable Math Skills and Concepts Personal Attention Pre-K through Pre-Calculus Skilled Instructors Mathnasium of Bensonhurst 347-762- 8411 6806 20th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11204 www.mathnasium.com/bensonhurst CATCH UP • KEEP UP • GET AHEAD

Special Advertising Section March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 17 BrooklynConservatory Register Camp/Programs 2012 online at of Music www.bqcm.org Directory

Continued from page 16 ful wildlife of Prospect Park! You 234 Roosevelt Hall can do all of this and more, when 2900 Bedford Ave. you join us for the Brooklyn Cultural 718-951-4111 or www. Adventures Program (BCAP) Summer bcprepcenter.org Camp, an innovative day camp creat- The Preparatory Center for the ing lifelong connections between Performing Arts at Brooklyn College youth and their cultural commu- is an exciting, nurturing environment nity. With BCAP Summer Camp, where children ages 3-18 develop a become an adventurer in the Heart Check out our exciting new life-long love for music, theater, and of Brooklyn! For 7-12 year-olds, dance. Creative Play program (ages Monday–Friday, 8am–3:30pm. Camp Summer Workshop Series! 3-5) is designed to be a first experi- is available in 2-week sessions from ence with dance and theater. Group July 2–August 10. Tuition assistance ENROLL NOW! instrument classes (age 6 and above) is offered for qualifying campers. provide an opportunity to try out n JUNIOR ROCK WEEK n MUSIC ADVENTURES FESTIVAL an instrument in a supportive, fun Brooklyn Friends School July 9-13: For rockers ages 7-11 July 30-August 3; August 13-17; environment. Call 718-951-4111 for Summer Programs August 20-24: For children 18 mo.-4 yrs. information on all summer classes as n 375 Pearl Street MUSICWORKS well as school year study. July 28: ages 6-9; July 29: ages 13-17; n SCHOOL OF IMPROV INTENSIVE 718-852-1029 or www. August 4-5: ages 6-13 August 6-10: For teens in high school brooklynfriends.org Family programs on rock, jazz, improv, Brooklyn Conservatory Brooklyn Friends School is located n TEEN ROCK INTENSIVE music in film and songwriting of Music just one block from Borough Hall August 11-12 58 7th Avenue Park Slope and easily accessible by public trans- Features jazz-rock guitarist Mike Gamble 718-622-3300 or www.bqcm.org portation. They offer three summer Nestled in a Victorian Gothic man- programs for children ages 2 to 14. 718.622.3300 www.bqcm.org sion in the heart of historic Park Summer Camp enrolls children ages 58 Seventh Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11217 Slope, the Brooklyn Conservatory of 2 to 8 and features specialty classes Music is a thriving community center in art, dance, science, tennis, group where music is open to everyone. games and swimming. From the beginner to the advanced Summer Arts enrolls children ages student contemplating a career in 8 to 11 and offers courses in pup- music, the Conservatory’s commit- petry, music, fiber arts, hip-hop, ment is to provide the highest qual- photography, drawing, painting and ity in arts education. woodworking. This summer get immersed in the Summer Intensives train campers in music you and your child love! Our music video animation, printmaking, new Summer Workshop Series in drawing and drama. July and August offers week-long and weekend intensives for all ages Expert and nurturing faculty runs that focus on vocal and instrumental all programs, including numerous instruction in jazz, rock, and clas- field trips throughout the city. Camp sical. Music Adventures offers the facilities include two gyms, rooftop youngest a creative outlet to explore playground, theater & music rooms, their musical abilities. Find a pro- woodshop, darkroom, media centers gram you love. Register now for a and air-conditioned classrooms challenging, fun, and fulfilling sum- mer of music! Brooklyn Kids Preschool 124 16th Street Brooklyn Cultural 718-717-2546 or www. Adventures Program gobrooklynkids.com (BCAP) Summer Camp Brooklyn Kids is starting a summer camp! 789 Washington Ave, 718-638-7700 x16 or www. Brooklyn Kids Day Camp Ages 7-9 heartofbrooklyn.org/camp Dates: Week 1: July 16th -20th; This summer, come explore world Week 2: July 23rd- 27th; Week3: cultures at Brooklyn Children’s July 30th – August 3 Museum and become a plant sci- Hours: 8:30am-3:30pm entist at Brooklyn Botanic Garden! Dissect an owl pellet at Prospect Price: $350 per Week (field trips may Park Zoo, scavenger hunt your way require additional fees) through the breathtaking book We are going to create a personal- stacks of Brooklyn Public Library, ized growth experience, rather than see a real-life mummy at Brooklyn a camp factory. We’ve all heard Museum, and discover the wonder- Continued on page 20 18 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Special Advertising Section NYC YOUNG DANCER PROGRAM 2012 AUDITION TOUR INFORMATION AT WWW.JOFFREYBALLETSCHOOL.COM CHOOL S

Relevé FOUNDED BY ROBERT JOFFREY IN 1953 Port de bras Adagio ALLET Ballonné B

Attitude

Pirouette Ballon Battu Ballerina Double Cabriole Sissonne dégagé Battement Barre Demi-plié Échappé Effacé Deux Cabriole Coda Grand Jeté Choreographer A l l é g r o sautée Tour de force Jeté Assemblé Tutu Balletomane

Ballotté OFFREY C a v a l i e r Battement tendu Brisé volé J SUMMER INTENSIVE

Special Advertising Section March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 19 Camp/Programs 2012 Directory

Continued from page 18 training, composition and repertory. the complaints from kids who go The program is fun but yet serious. to over-crowded camps that try to It will strengthen your “technique” hurry them through their day. Our and broaden your dance vocabu- BCAP camp will focus on the arts and sci- lary. New students must attend a ences in a fun and active way. We placement audition. Summer dance Summer want to encourage the campers to classes are also available for adults Photo by Michael JN Bowles be explorers of the world! and children under 10. Camp Our camp will include Museum, CBTB Dance Academy is the official Theater and Exploring Trips. We school of Covenant Ballet Theatre will also include elements of Music, of Brooklyn, a professional, non- Spend this summer in the Theater, Dance, Art, Gardening, profit dance company founded and Healthy Cooking and good old directed by accomplished dance Heart of Brooklyn! fashioned Play to teach Science and instructor and choreographer, Marla Math organically. We are limiting Hirokawa. The school also offers a Two trips each day to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, enrollment to 10 campers per week 10 month student program, adult to ensure the richest possible sum- classes and special workshops Brooklyn Children’s Museum, Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn mer experience. throughout the year. The Academy incorporates the ABT® National Public Library, Prospect Park, and Prospect Park Zoo, make $100 Deposit Per Week, Due May 1, every day at BCAP an adventure! Training Curriculum for the school’s 2012. Primary though Level 3 ballet classes. Two-week sessions available from CBE KIDS Summer Day July 2 – August 10 The Cosmic Cove Camp 300 Atlantic Avenue, In the Garfield Temple at 8th 718-344-4631 or www. For more info and to register online, go to: Avenue and Garfield Place, Park carmelothesciencefellow.com http://www.heartofbrooklyn.org/bcapcamp Slope Carmelo the Science Fellow invites 718-768-3814 you to discover his science parties, CBE KIDS Summer Day Camp offers created at his unique and memo- children fun, excitement and a wide rable Cosmic Cove. Here, children

variety of recreational activities in a are transformed into scientists: they

www.kimskidscamp.com safe, supervised environment. touch, hold, and most importantly Physically718-768-6419 Active • Outdoors everyday The program meets the needs of take part in all of the experiments.

?7HB820;;H02C8E4’=0CDA4>A84=C43They participate in hands-on activi- Kim’s Kids Summer Camp Summer • Kids Nature Kim’s Oriented • travelling day camp children entering K-4th grades.

Children of all faiths and ethnic ties that are fun, exciting, and, most LOCATED IN PARK SLOPE PARK IN Experienced,LOCATED Carefully Chosen, Adult Staff>DC3>>AB4E4AH30H backgrounds are welcomed. ’CA0E4;8=630H20

31 Years in Operation Facilities include an indoor pool, art Experiments with Carmelo may Early drop off & late pick-up available pick-up late & off drop Early and computer rooms, darkroom and include making silly putty, glow in

Experienced, Carefully Chosen,the dark slime, Adult conducting Staff a diaper 3, 4, or 5 days a week a days 5 or 4, 3, large, multi-use spaces. Prospect

Park is used29 forYears sports, nature in and Operation powder study, making fake snow, 3, 4, 5 or 6 week sessions week 6 or 5 4, 3, outdoor play. etc. They can even work with ani-

mals like the weird moving mega

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE FLEXIBLE Activities include dailyDAILY recreational TRIPS mealworms…yuck! You can even

-11

Ages 4 Ages and instructional swim, gymnastics, take home your experiments…even 1/2 Swimming at a lake, pools and beaches.

nature, arts & crafts, music, sports the live ones. Special trip to Sesame Place Sesame to trip Special Weeklyhobbies hikes. and twice Trips a week to Museums,trips, a Zoos, Playgrounds,

mid-session Olympics, Music Festival Bowling, Aquarium, Science Centers. Science Aquarium, Bowling, and Carnival.Bowling, Aquarium, ScienceCreative Centers. Arts Studio

Summer Camp 2012 Weekly hikes. Trips to Museums, Zoos, Playgrounds, Playgrounds, Zoos, Museums, to Trips hikes. Weekly DAILY TRIPS Special trip to Sesame Place

CBTB Dance Academy Now in Boerum Hill and Carroll

Swimming at a lake, pools and beaches. and pools lake, a at Swimming Swimming at a lake, pools and beaches. 1/2 Gardens

2085 Coney Island AvenueAges (Kings 4 -11 DAILY TRIPS DAILY Weekly hikes. Trips to Museums, Zoos, Playgrounds, 718-797-5600 or www. FLEXIBLE SCHEDULEHighway and Avenue R) creativeartsstudio.com

Bowling, Aquarium, Science Centers. 718-891-6199 or www.

3, 4, 5 or 6 week sessions Creative Arts Studio offers children 29 Years in Operation in Years 29 covenantballet.org Special trip to Sesame Place between the ages 5-13, the chance

1 3, 4, or 5 days aAre week you an aspiring dancer (ages 10

to have a wonderful experience of Experienced, Carefully Chosen, Adult Staff Adult Chosen, Carefully Experienced, Ages 4 /2 - 11 and up) looking to experience the Early drop off & late pick-up available dance, drama, music and art.

kind of training a professional will

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE LOCATED IN PARK SLOPE have? Look no further! CBTB Dance There will be weekly swimming CA0E4;8=630H20DC3>>AB4E4AH30H sessions Kim’s Kids SummerLOCATED Camp INAcademy PARK brings SLOPE the Manhattan lessons, field trips to various muse-

3, 4, or 5 days a week 718-768-6419 Kim’s Kids Summerdance experience Camp home to Brooklyn ums and special events along with  =0CDA4>A84=C43  ’  ?7HB820;;H02C8E4 projects and activities that explore Early drop off & late www.kimskidscamp.com in our spacious and centrally air- pick-up available 718-768-6419 conditioned facility! The Summer weekly themes. www.kimskidscamp.comIntensive program offers diverse, The outstanding faculty of the professional instruction in classi- Creative Arts Studio will be teaching cal ballet, pointe, modern, cross- Continued on page 22 20 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Special Advertising Section Summer Day Camps Children of all Faiths & Ethnic Backgrounds are Welcome NEW THIS SUMMER: Open HOuse Dual Language Groups At the Temple House, Sun., March 18th, 11am-1pm & Wed., April 4th, 6-7pm (Hebrew/English) at Elementary Day Camp Entering Kindergarten 2 Year Olds 3 Years to Kindergarten • Pre-School Day Camp Through 4th Grade • Terrific Two’s • Elementary Day Camp Entering 5th Full and Half Day programs, Our popular pre-nursery Full Day program. On-site Through 9th Grade Professional Staff, Fully program for your toddler Swimming, active outdoor • Movin’ On Travel Camp Equipped Classrooms, On-site accompanied by sports, arts & crafts, nature, Five days of trips. Swimming, Weekly Trips a parent or caregiver. gymnastics & music. Two overnights, mature, for full day 4 & 5 yr. olds. Trips in & around NYC qualified staff. For Elementary, Keshet Groups & Travel Camp Call: Bobbie Finklestein at: 718-768-3814 x210 8th Avenue & Garfield Place, Park Slope • www.congregationbethelohim.org

Special Advertising Section March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 21 Camp/Programs 2012 Directory

Continued from page 20 frostvalley.org this multi-arts workshop in a fun Our Catskill Mountains summer and nurturing environment. camp unites traditional camping with innovative programs, focusing FashionCampNYC on building and maintaining healthy 866-909-6911 www.gordon@ lifestyles, and reflecting the interests fashioncampnyc.com and needs of a dynamic camp com- Web Site: www.fashioncampnyc. munity – an exciting mix of cultures, com backgrounds, and abilities. Activities On Facebook: http://www. are designed to build trust, team- facebook.com/pages/ work, and mutual understanding. FashionCampNYC/203629035378 Exiting “Teen Adventure Trips” are On Twitter: http://twitter.com/ offered. Our 6,000 acres are ideal fashioncampnyc for the ultimate camp experience. Husband and wife team Francine We focus on building strong charac- Della Badia and Gordon Josey are ter values through outdoor activities Owner/Directors and founders of in a natural environment. Serving FashionCampNYC. Between them 35,000 visitors annually through they have over 30 years experience our conference facility (for families in overnight camping experience. / groups), environmental education They created FashionCampNYC 4 for students, and 20 summer camp years ago – Francine is Senior Vice options. President North America Retail Merchandising and Planning for the Joffrey Ballet School handbag company Coach and wish Founded By Robert Joffrey in 1953 to teach the campers the business 434 Avenue of the America’s, 3rd, behind retail fashion – looking at 4th and 5th Floors NY 10011 merchandising, design, fashion pub- 212-254-8520 ext 208 Fax: lication while having fun ….. 718-228-9612 or www. joffreyballetschool.com FasTracKids Summer Summer Dance Camp- Ages 3 - 6, 60 Broadway Williamsburg 7-9 (NO AUDITION REQUIRED) 7612 13th Avenue Bay Ridge/ Six Ballets in six weeks! Our young- Dyker Heights est dancers will explore a different 1605 Voorhies Avenue, story ballet each week culminating Sheepshead Bay in a Friday family performance. The 718-748-3000 children will use improvisation, basic FasTracKids is designed for children movement concepts, and basic prin- ages 3-7. Sessions last for one week cipals of classical ballet to recreate at a time. A full day program is the great story ballets. The children offered that includes enrichment will design and construct costumes, classes, math, reading, and writing masks and scenery to enhance the classes, exercise, local field trips, productions. A light, theme based, arts and crafts, karaoke, computers, snack will be served daily. special projects, science experiments and much more. Hours are from Kim’s Kids Summer 9am-4pm with extended hours avail- Camp able. Meets at PS 321 in Park Slope The camp offers a fast-paced, fun 718-768-6419 or www. and fully interactive setting; learning kimskidscamp.com adventures captivate and entertain Is a nature-oriented active camp as they deliver truly meaningful les- for children ages 4-1/2 to 11. Being sons. physical and outdoors are at the Each day FasTracKids will enjoy learn- heart of the program. ing as they explore, discover, imag- The camp takes trips every day; ine and create. This is the summer children may spend the day jumping adventure children will use for life. waves at Riis Park or riding a camel One or 2 times per week Enopi Math at the zoo. It is a continuous agenda & English Classes are also offered all of hiking, swimming, running, climb- summer and throughout the year. ing, and exploring. Flexible scheduling allows children Frost Valley YMCA to attend three, four or five days a 845-985-2291 Ext 301 or www. week. frostvalley.org or campdirector@ Continued on page 24 22 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Special Advertising Section CBTB Dance Academy Summer Programs Dancing For A Difference

SUMMER BEGINNINGS: August 6 - 10 Summer Beginnings is a week long program tailored for students 2011 Summer Performance 8 years old and up. Students will enoy a fun fi lled day of ballet, 2011 Summer Performance at Brooklyn Borough Hall modern, jazz and composition. No prior training. at Cyclones Game SUMMER INTENSIVE: SUMMER SATURDAYS: July 9 - August 3 July 7, 14, 21, 28 & August 4, 11 CBTB’s Summer Intensive is a four week program designed for students Six consecutive Saturdays in July and August with classes for our young- with some prior dance training. Interested students must attend a place- er dancers, as well as adults and teens. Creative Movement (3-4 yrs), ment audition. Summer classes include ballet, pointe, variations, modern, Pre Ballet/ Dance Fundamentals (5-7 yrs), Modern/Jazz 1 for children, composition, cross training & repertory. Modern/Jazz for Adults & Teens and BalletFit for Adults & Teens. Photos by Stanley Nov & Erica Sherman 2085 Coney Island Avenue (Kings Hwy. & Ave. R) Call 718-891-6199 today www.covenantballet.org Leif Ericson Day School

SPiRiTUAL ACADEMiC FORMATiON EXCELLENCE * Nursery - Grade 8* OPEN • Small Class Size • Professional, Caring Staff WINDMILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL Accredited Preschool, Elementary, HOUSES • State Approved Curriculum JHS & Academic Summer Camp • Music Performance • Computer Technology Tuesday, March 6 A P E A C E F U L P L A C E T O L E A R N S I N C E 1 9 4 1 Wednesday, March 28 Windmill’s environment encourages children to Tuesday, April 24 ~OPEN HOUSE~ • learn naturally at their own pace 9:00-10:30am • find and develop their own interests, and Sunday, April 29th, 2012 • get the individual attention needed to thrive 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CURRICULUM ADVANTAGES Montessori Method, French, Computer Skills, Tour the school! Meet the teachers! Physical Education, Yoga, Music, Art Academic Montessori Summer Camp for 3-6 year olds Register for our PLUS MORE Academic Montessori Creative Writing Small Class Size, Outdoor Recreation, Camp for 6-9 and 9-12 year olds A/C Classrooms, Curriculum-based Trips, Group Games « Weekly Themes « Summer Dedicated Staff, Door-to-Door Bus Service, Age-appropriate Trips « Arts & Crafts « Carnival « Enclosed Wading Pool « Creative Arts After School Program (3:40-5:45pm) and more.... Happy Learners and Happy Campers CAMP 2012 & Music Program Monday, July 2nd to Friday, August 10 June 25 - August 3, 2012 718-375-7973 « 718-375-4277 e -m a i l : w i n d m o n t @ w i n d m i l l m o n t e s s o r i s c h o o l . o r g nd Windmill is non-sectarian. Licensed by The New York City Department of Health 1037 - 72 Street • 718-748-9023 Affiliated with The American Montessori Society http://ledsny.org 1 3 1 7 A v e n u e T @ E a s t 1 4 t h S t r e e t B r o o k l y n, N Y 1 1 2 2 9

Special Advertising Section March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 23 Camp/Programs 2012 d Mon oo te Directory s w s Continued from page 22 functions has and continues to be d Early bird drop off and late pickup the provision of an enriching camp i o are available. experience for children. The camp r program provides children ages 3-14 The Summer Creative with an educational, recreational M i Arts & Music Program of and social experience that will last a lifetime. Their activities include, Leif Ericson Day School instructional swimming on a daily 1037 72nd Street in Dyker Heights basis, sports leagues, arts & crafts, 718-748-9023 or www.ledsny.org dance, and computers. Leif Ericson Day School’s Summer Day trips include Six Flags, Splish Creative Arts and Music Program Splash, Adventureland, Funzone, (SCAMP) begins its 16th year of museums, and shows. Overnights fun on June 25, and runs through include, Philadelphia, Virginia, August 3. Children from pre-K to Massachusetts and New Jersey. grade 7 enjoy computers, art, music, movement, and drama. Professional Their programs help children to caring staff and junior counselors are develop their identities by promoting Pre-School & Kindergarten enthusiastic and attentive. Limited individual growth while embracing group size allows for a more fulfill- Jewish family and community values. Summer Program ing experience All activities are on- Please contact Nataly Yusim, MSW, premises. Two snacks provided daily. Camp Director for more information. Transportation Available SCAMP hours are 9a.m.-3p.m. with “Early bird” care (8am) and “Late Summers With 2825 Bedford Avenue • 253-3242 Bird” care (5pm) for additional fees. Mathnasium 6806 20th Avenue at Glenwood Road L’eman Manhattan 347-7-MATH-11 (347-762-8411) 41 Broad Street and 1 Morris or www.mathnasium.com/ Street, NY 10004 bensonhurst 212 232 0266 ext. 254 or Summer Hours (July and August): www.lemanmanhattan.org/ Mon-Tue-Wed-Thurs: 11:00 AM – summercamp 5:00 PM, Sat 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Have a funderful summer at Léman Friday and Sunday: Closed Manhattan, located in the heart of the Financial District. Welcome to Mathnasium. We are a math learning center where we Our two unique programs provide make MATH make SENSE to kids. kids with a world of fun activities We support K, 1st grade, 2nd – 12th and hands-on experiences. grades and up. Camp Léman – Children (3s – 3rd Our Summer Math camp (July and grade) enjoy swim lessons by Red August) is a great time to CATCH Cross-certified lifeguards, outdoor UP, KEEP UP and GET AHEAD. play, arts and crafts, woodworking, sports, cooking, special events, off- We have fun activities, contests and campus trips and much, much more. rewards. It is an extra relaxed time Program runs June 18th – July 27th . to learn! Shorts, T-shirts, flip-flops welcome! We have earlier hours as Leman Summer Workshops – well so you can enjoy those beautiful Children (4th-8th grade) hone their summer evenings. special interests in week-long Fine Arts, Music, Cooking, Voice and At Mathnasium, we end the confu- Performance and Film Workshops sion, frustration and embarrassment overseen by our outstanding faculty children often feel about math. as well as outside professionals. Includes unique excursions. The Midwood Montessori week concludes with an event for Summer family and friends. Program runs 2825 Bedford Avenue, one block June 18th – July 27th. from Brooklyn College 718-253-3242 The Marks JCH Day Camp The rich Montessori setting that 7802 Bay Parkway attracts children to our school influ- 718-943-6345 or www.jchcamp. ences our summer camp - a nurtur- com or [email protected] ing, creative environment providing a The Marks JCH Day Camp has been wide variety of activities for children serving south Brooklyn for over 80 ages 2.9 - 6 years. These include years. One of their most important Continued on page 26 24 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Special Advertising Section REGISTER eArlY BirD Discounts For 2012/2013NOW FREE Universal Pre-K up to $200 off Program Register by March 31st For Children Age 4 By Dec. 31, 2012 OPEN HOUSES Saturday, March 10 & April 14 Ages 2-15 11 am to 3 pm

DOOR TO DOOR Paerdegat Day Camp, The Premier Value In Day Camping In The Brooklyn Area, TRANSPORTATION Is Committed To Creating Wonderful Summer Memories For Your Child.

(All ProgrAms on-site) • Lunch & Snacks Included • Adventure Challenge • Dance We gladly • Trips Included • 7 Racquetball Courts • Basketball accept: • Camp pictures, bag & • softball • Poolside Parties ACD, HRA, shirt included • New! Indoor softstep • Olympic Games 1199, TWU • Full Red Cross swim Program Turf Field • Talent show & • Professionally Trained staff • soccer • Drum Line UNION • Full Gymnastics Center • Computer Lab • Fashion show VOUCHeRs • Outdoor Pools with • Arts/Crafts Double Tube slide Video CALL NOW...Enrollment is Limited! Security CAMP OFFICE HOURS Paerdegat Athletic Club System 7 DAYS A WEEK 9AM TO 9PM 1500 Paerdegat Ave. N. • Canarsie, Brooklyn For Directions go to 718.531.1111 www.paerdegat.com

Special Advertising Section March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 25 Camp/Programs 2012 Directory

Continued from page 24 Nova Summer Day Camp has been indoor play in our centrally air condi- serving the Brooklyn community for tioned building, three outdoor play 30 years offers a combination of areas, daily water play, gardening, programs. Besides their top quality, picnics, barbecues, music, arts & well known gymnastics programs, crafts, weekly field trips and theme they also offer dance, martial arts, days, all of which are supervised swimming, soccer, basketball, arts by our caring and experienced and crafts, talent shows, music, year-round staff. Transportation is weekly trips and more. available. Located one block from Programs are taught by professional Brooklyn College, our hours are 9 staff in a state-of-the-art, air con- AM - 3 PM (8 AM drop-off avail- ditioned facility, one block from the able). beach, in their own private seaside community that has an on-site pool Mill Basin Day Camp and playground. 5945 Strickland Avenue Each of the sports will develop 718-251-6200 or www. campers in many ways: eye-hand millbasindaycamp.com coordination, water skills, self- Mill Basin Day Camp is dedicated to defense, good sportsmanship, cour- providing an exciting and fulfilling tesy, respect and personal creativity. camp experience for children enter- The campers are building skills that ing Pre-K through 9th grade. last a lifetime. As the largest camp only facility Kosher breakfast and lunch are in Brooklyn, their modern, fully included. equipped, air-conditioned and secure space offers a wide range of on-site activities. Campers are Paerdegat Day Camp supervised by qualified staff in a fun 1500 Paerdegat Avenue North and safe first environment. Door to 718-531-1111 or www.paerdegat. door bus service is available to most com locations. Now in its 28th year the program Call or come in for a personal tour continues to be an elite camp in the of the facility. metropolitan area. All activities are located on the premises, and include swimming, gymnastics, basketball New York Hall of Science and soccer as well as arts & crafts, 47-01 111th Street adventure challenge and an exten- Flushing Meadows – Corona Park sive schedule of trips. General Info: 718-699-0005 Groups & Camps: 718-699-0301 As always, the philosophy is to pro- [email protected] or www.nysci. vide fun and exciting activities that org create a rewarding experience for Campers say NYSCI is amazing! your children while always maintain- They get to touch and interact with ing a safe environment by an experi- more than 450 exhibits. Experience enced and caring staff. unforgettable fun at 3D theater pre- 4, 6 & 8 week sessions are avail- sentations Wild Oceans and Tornado able for children ages 2-14. Alley, Rocket Park Mini Golf and the Transportation and lunch are Science Playground. NYSCI offers included. ACD, BEGIN, TWU, 1199 the best interactive exhibits, outdoor & all union vouchers are gladly play areas, science demonstrations accepted. Please call for more infor- and workshops. mation. NEW for Summer 2012: Explore ANIMATION, a highly interactive Park Explorers Day Camp traveling exhibition featuring popular 611 8th Avenue, one block from Cartoon Network characters like Ben Prospect Park 10: Alien Force, Dexter’s Laboratory, 718-788-3620 or www. The Powerpuff Girls, Scooby-Doo parkexplorers.com and more! Reserve your group or At Park Explorers Day Camp no two camper today! days are alike. Each week offers a trip to the beach, gymnastics, Nova Summer Day Camp sports, arts and crafts, drama, move- 3701 Surf Avenue, inside Seagate ment, singing, special events, twice 718-996-2229 or www.freewebs. a week pool swim, a different trip com/novagym Continued on page 28 26 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Special Advertising Section We’re Learning Step-By-Step At... Stepping Stones Nursery School

Openings for March 2012 Enrollment NOW AVAILABLE for Children Born 2008 and 2009.

OPEN HOUSE DATES 10am to 1:00pm Sunday, March 18th Sunday, April 22nd All children born 2008, 2009 & 2010. All children born 2008, 2009 & 2010.

School Programs Full And Half Day Programs Available • 2-Year Old Toddler Tykes Class 3-Year Old Little Learners Class School Session: • September – June • 4-Year Old Preschool Pals Class Call or email [email protected] Summer Session for an appointment After School Programs 8 week program Kindergarten through 5th grade Choose your own weeks 245 86th Street Brooklyn, NY | 718-630-1000

RegisteR online today! 2012 FRost The School For summeR Professional Dance Training Camps Valley Fairy Princess frostvalley Dance Camp .org An enchanted session of ymCa Dancing, Creative Movement, Tumbling and Arts & Crafts sleepaway Camps • farm Camp presented with favorite fairy tale theme. Ages 4 to 9, hOrse Camps • adventure trips two 3 week sessions, 10am - 1:30pm two to 4 days a week, 1&2 week sessions July & aug ages 7-16 starts July 5th Teen and Adult Summer Classes • Ballet • Pointe • Jazz • Hip Hop • Tap • Contemporary • Bellydance • Flamenco • Breakdance • Body Workout • Pilates • Yoga • Zumba SUMMER DANCE INTENSIVE FOR Only 2½ PRE-TEENS AND TEENS at BDC1 hrs frOm Session includes BALLET, MODERN, Frost Valley YMCA JAZZ, TECHNIQUE & REPERTORY. metrO July 10th through July 26th. ny/nJ! Tuesdays & Thursdays from 10 to 2 BDC1 - 2106 West 6th St. (2nd floor) • 718-996-0319 open Houses: Feb 26, Mar 25 & Apr 22 www.thebrooklyndancecenter.com BDC2 - 6720 20th Avenue • 718-256-5320 and email: [email protected] tel: 845-985-2291 BDC3 - 9110 5th Avenue • 718-333-5767 www.thebrooklyndancecenters.com

Special Advertising Section March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 27 VXPPHUIXQDWWKH Camp/Programs 2012 ROGVWRQHKRXVH Directory July Programs for Kids Ages 7 – 11 Continued from page 26 ing and food in our beautiful gar- in the heart of Park Slope! each week around NYC, plus lots of dens. Gather and plant seeds; har- Register healthy outdoor sunshine. vest your lunch; explore soil, worms, Third graders and up can try special and insects; use garden tools, play; July 2-13 (closed July 4) July 16-27 and make art! Monday – Friday 9 am – 3 pm Today! programs in Exploring Theater and Exploring Soccer. Fifth graders and $550 for each two week session up may sign up for special trips and StageCoach Theatre Arts Programs take place in the OSH’s Great Room, and next door at MS overnights. School 51, with lots of outdoor time in Washington Park and the beautiful There are flexible weekly sessions Brooklyn Heights 718-852-3208 Upper East Side 347-678-8989 or new JJ Byrne playground. plus early drop off and extended hours; shuttle bus service available in www.stagecoachschools.com designated areas. Stagecoach Theatre School in Piper Theatre – Starlings Brooklyn Heights is excited to offer The Park Slope Day summer performing arts camps Drama for Ages 7 - 11 Camp for children aged 4-16 years for an intensive week of acting, singing and Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, Bay dancing. Students will have work- Ridge, Carroll Gardens shops with Broadway artists during A nurturing introduction to theatre with our professional 718-788-7732 or www. parkslopedaycamp.com the week as well as working on a teaching artists, under the direction of Maggie Weber. show!! PSDC = CAMP SPIRIT, COMMUNITY AND FRIENDSHIP. This is a fantastic week for children Music Dramatic Play Fun who would enjoy an intensive and Movement Performance Friends Welcoming, stimulating, lively, fun filled week of acting, singing diverse, safe, professionally managed and dancing. Workshops run August Traditional Folk Tales from West Africa & Russia Baba Yaga, outdoor camp for ages 3.5 – 14. 6th – 11th and August 13th – 18th. The 3 Brothers and the Pot of Porridge, Ivan the Simpleton Exciting travel camp for grades 6 – All classes divided by age group. 8; fantastic Leadership Experience Shakespeare for Beginners The Tempest and Twelfth Night Reasonable rates as well as sibling for grades 9 & 10. Specialized Sports discounts! Please call Beth Kent on Academy and Circus program. Swim, 718-852-3208 for more information Register at www.pipertheatre.org sports, arts, gymnastics, horseback or take at look at our website www. riding, lots of special events, trips. stagecoachschools.com Very flexible registration; extra long season and accommodating hours. Transportation. An experienced, cre- Staten Island Academy ative, stable staff, second to none! Summer Day Camp 715 Todt Hill Road Summer Fun at the Old 718-303-7846 or www. Stone House statenislandacademy.org/camp Staten Island Academy Summer Day Piper Theatre Workshop and Camp offers safe, fun-filled, activity- Garden Explorers Old Stone House – Garden Explorers 3rd Street, between 4th & 5th packed programs for children ages Avenues 3-14and we specialize in making Urban Farming for Ages 7 - 11 718-768-3195 memories that last a lifetime! Day Pipertheatre.org/Oldstonehouse. camp dates are June 19 through org August 16, 2012. Discover the world of plants, gardening and food For Ages 7 - 11 In addition to weekly events and activities, our campers run, jump and Two week sessions, July 2-13 (closed in our beautiful gardens. Gather and plant seeds; play on our 12-acre campus, three July 4) & July 16-27 harvest your lunch; explore soil, worms, and tennis courts and two swimming 9 am – 3 pm Monday – Friday pools. Included in our day camp insects; use garden tools, play; and make art! Programs take place in the OSH’s program are dance and the Camp Great Room, and next door at MS Show, arts and crafts, Discovery Register at www.theoldstonehouse.org. 51, with lots of outdoor time in Science, computer lab, game room and hot lunch in our cool cafeteria! For more info call 718 768-3195 or [email protected] Washington Park and the beautiful new JJ Byrne playground. We also offer NYC’s only Summer Piper Theatre Workshop - Starlings Institute for the Gifted program and specialized sports camps for Children spend their days creating basketball, soccer, tennis and rugby/ together under the guidance of nur- lacrosse. We have something for turing, professional artists. This sea- everyone – from the most active to son’s productions range from tradi- the most creative camper! tional Folk Tales from West Africa & Russia to Shakespeare for Beginners. Learn more at an Open House March 10, April 22 or May 19 and visit us Old Stone House - Garden Explorers online at www.statenislandacademy. Discover the world of plants, garden- Continued on page 30 28 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Special Advertising Section PARK SLOPE  WINDSOR TERRACE  BAY RIDGE  CARROLL GARDENS

Open House Dates Spring Mini Camp Saturday, March 3 Saturday, March 17 April 9 through 13 Saturday, March 31 5 days of trips & activities based in Park Slope. 339 8th Street, just below 6 Avenue Presentations begin at 1pm & 2:30pm Brooklyn Day, June 7 2012 Season also available July 2 - August 31  Traditional Day Camp Outdoor, Introducing Our fun, stimulating programs for Brand New Program campers ages 3.5 to 14.in addition to the following Specialty Programs:  Very flexible registration; extra Winter Indoor Soccer long season and accomodating  Cirque d’Ete for grades Pre-K - 5 hours. featuring acrobatics, circus skills, clowning and more.  Free morning transportation from most Brownstone Brooklyn  Sports Academy for grades 1 - 5 neighborhoods. specialized sessions in soccer skills  Door to door transportation  On Wheels travel camp for campers available from most other Brooklyn  Saturday classes in Park Slope entering grades 6 - 8 features daily locations. and Carroll Gardens and overnight trips.  Ages 2.5 through 10  Leadership Experience for teens

entering gradesg 9 & 10

718-788-PSDC (7732)  www.parkslopedaycamp.com

Special Advertising Section March 2012 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 29 Camp/Programs 2012 Directory Register Continued from page 28 1317 Avenue T org/camp. For more information call 718-375-7973 or 4277 NOW! 718-303-7846. or e-mail windmont@ windmillmontessorischool.org Stepping Stones Nursery Windmill Montessori Summer Camp Classes held School Summer offers a nurturing place where 2.5 to at PS58 8.5 year olds make friends and learn, 245 86th Street while having lots of fun. 718-630-1000 or e-mail stepping- [email protected] Spacious enclosed yard with play- WinterSpring TermTerm 2012 2012 ground and pool lets campers safely Stepping Stones Nursery School JanuaryMarch 24th 7th —- March June 16th10th participate in outdoor activities, offers an eight-week summer camp all with highly qualified and caring Brooklyn Heights - Saturday Weekend Classes program for children ages 2 to 9 staff’s guidance. years old. The children engage in Previous experience is not necessary, indoor and outdoor recreational Local trips, weekly themes, arts & Children of all levels are welcomed. activities such as field trips, arts and crafts, computers, singing, group crafts, dramatic play, sand and water games, and pool activities are enjoyed. Magician visit, Olympics EarlyEARLY Stages STAGES for for children children aged aged 4-6 4-6 years. years. activities and story time. Classes every Saturday 9.30am-11am & 11.30am-1pm and carnival are highlights. Four to Classes every Saturday 9.30am-11am & 11.30am-1pm Camp is open 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., six week programs are offered, as Main Stage classes for children aged 7-16 years Monday through Friday. Stepping are sibling discounts. Door-to-door Main Stage classes for children aged 7-16 years Stones has central air conditioning ClassesClasses every every Saturday Saturday 10am-1pm. bus service is available. Call for indi- with modern learning materials and vidualized appointment. a safe surface playground. • Classes in Dance, Drama and Singing Classes in Dance, Drama and Singing Call for more information. YMCA Summer Camps taught by professional performers. taught by professional performers. Bedford-Stuyvesant YMCA, 1121 • Come and be part of our spring musical. Windmill Montessori Bedford Avenue, 718-789-1497; Summer Camp Continued on page 32 •Guest Classes Teacher taught Workshopsin a creative, withfun and performerssafe environment. from Broadway shows. •Children All abilities learn welcome. voiceovers and , , ,, audition techniques . Classes taught in a creative, fun and safeAugust envirionment. 6th -11th and 13th - 18th Be part of our summer variety show and 17 EASTERN PARKWAY • BROOKLYN, NY 11238 meetAll abilities and learn welcome. from Broadway performers Summer Fun Starts Here! For questions and registration checkout our website or call Beth on: 718 - 852 - 3208 Summer Camp Sessions Classes are limited and places are June 11 - July 27 allocated on a Þrst come basis. Ages: 2.9-5.8 years StageCoach the World’s Largest Half days M-F 9:00-12:30 Part Time Theatre Arts Schools Full days M-F 9:00-3:00 H Outdoor play NOW! E! ACT H Weekly swimming lessons at Eastern Athletic Club ANC SING! D H Local trips to the Brooklyn Museum, Botanic Garden and Prospect Park Zoo Theatre Arts Schools H StageCoach Flexible scheduling available Call or email for more information. www.StageCoachSchools.com 718-623-1322 [email protected]

30 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Special Advertising Section Jump for joy! It’s time for Summer Camp!

OPEN HOUSE DATES DON’T FORGET! Saturday, March 10 Early Bird Deadline is

Sunday, April 22 Monday, April

11 AM — 2 PM 23rd! Two Swimming Pools ● Basketball Camp Soccer Camp ● Summer Institute for the Gifted Tennis Academy ● Dance ● Arts & Crafts ● Computer Lab Discovery Science ● Weekly Trips, Events & Theme Days Air-conditioned Cafeteria with HOT Lunch

Bus transportation, extended day and private swim lessons are available. 715 Todt Hill Road, Staten Island, NY 10304 ● 718-303-7845

Brooklyn Kids Park Slope

An Art Based Pre-K Program Cooking, Science, Dance, Art & More! Ask about our www.gobrooklynkids.com Summer Camp!

5-1 Classroom Ratio!

Now enrolling Call (718) 717-2546 to Schedule a Tour for 2012!

[email protected] 124 16th Street Park Slope, Brooklyn

Special Advertising Section March 2012 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 31 Camp/Programs 2012 Directory

Continued from page 30 YMCA Day Camp or visit ymcanyc. Dodge YMCA, 225 Atlantic org/camp for more information. Avenue, 718-625-3136 Flatbush YMCA, 1401 Flatbush Young People’s Day Avenue, 718-469-8100 Camp of Brooklyn Greenpoint YMCA, 99 Meserole 718-451-9700, 1-800DAYCAMP or Avenue, 718-389-3700 www.ypdc.com N. Brooklyn/12 Towns YMCA, 570 Jamaica Avenue, 718-277-1600 Fully understands a parents’ desire to give their child the best and safest Prospect Park YMCA, 357 Ninth Street, 718-768-7100 opportunities. That’s why for over 40 years Young People’s Day Camp YMCA Summer Camps provide is still providing a dynamic, diversi- youth with supervised activities that fied, and professionally supervised teach core values, conflict resolution program enabling children to see, and leadership skills. Kids have fun try and experience many activities in while making new friends, building many different places. self-confidence, appreciating team- work and growing in self-reliance. Activities include swimming, sports, Their program includes playing arts & crafts, weekly movies and games, arts & crafts, exploring sci- trips, bowling, karate, carnivals, bar- ence and technology, swimming, beques, picnics, hiking, fitness, and field trips, appreciating nature and other special events. Days Filled with FUN, FUN, FUN! values of many cultures. All camps They offer flexible sessions from 2-8 are accredited by the American weeks for children ages 4-14. Door- For Boys & Girls, 4 - 14 Camping Association. to-door transportation and fees for 2 - 8 Week Programs Available Registration for Summer 2012 is now special trips, activities and admis- Operated By Licensed Teachers & Administrators open. Please contact your nearest sions are included. We OfferSp ecial Rates for Union Members Weekly Field Trips and Weekly First-Run Movies Sports With Instruction 7HA?D= 7J/JK:?E Arts & Crafts AND MORE! FUHDWH‡GLVFRYHU‡WKLQN‡LPDJLQH $UWLQWKH&LW\ 6XPPHU&DPS :HHNVRI&UHDWLYH)81&KRRVHWKHZHHNV\RXZDQW Call Now QG WK For Pre-Season Discount! -XO\ $XJXVW DPSP :HHNO\DQGH[WHQGHGGD\RSWLRQVDYDLODEOH OFFICE ADDRESS: SHUZHHN UHJIHHSHUIDPLO\ 5410 Avenue N FXUVLRQV NLGV VSRUWV Brooklyn, NY 11234 DUWH[ JDPHV \RJD GD\WULSV DJHV CALL: 1-718-951-9732 or 0XVHXPVSDUNVDQGIXQSODFHV DOODURXQG1HZHE?PN=JOLKNP=PEKJ`  KJ@1PNAAP– KANQI&EHH  NåGHˆJ >=NGEJC?=POPQ@EK JAP–EJBK>=NGEJC?=POPQ@EK JAP

&DOOIRUPRUHLQIRUPDWLRQ 32 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Special Advertising Section The Preparatory Center for The Performing Arts 234 Roosevelt Hall, 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11210 Over 30 years of offering music, theater, and dance classes for children age 3 and up. Register Now For Private Lessons In Instruments And Voice

Please call 718-951-4111 for information on summer and fall classes. Visit our website at www.bcprepcenter.org neeD BeTTer grADeS? E X P ROL E ROM E Club Z!'s Tutors Can Make It Happen! weN kroY laH l fo ecneicS • All Subjects • All Ages • Study Skills • Math • English Language Arts • Sciences • Foreign Languages • Prep for SAT, SHSAT, ISEE & All NY State Exams Opens March 31, 2012 • Your Child's Curriculum • Homework Help • Affordable Rates • Certified Teachers Cartoons come to life at NYSCI. Learn the ins and outs of storyboarding, apparent motion, flipbooks and more.

R

$50 Off Call Today! .org TuTOrIng Call for Details. 718-483-8506  www.clubz.com/brooklyn

March 2012 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 33 Education Inside charter schools Independent By Candi SparkS n New York, educational options public schools abound, as do the fights over I which system is best. Parents can choose among talent-based and can offer an magnet schools, public, private, re- ligious, or home schooling for their alternative — children. A subcategory of the public school system that has come under fire lately is the charter school, which but first, there’s is an independent public school that is the brainchild of the Department a lottery of Education. Defenders of the tradi- istrators, a nonprofit funder, a lunch educators, parents, nonprofits, and tional public system are crying foul provider, doing community outreach communities. and accusing government policies of for enrollment — and more — is up seeking to undermine and privatize to the school. The board of trustees community outreach the public school system, while its may include educators, community and the application proponents are basking in the glow members, parents, and leaders from process of their success whenever possible. the private sector. In serving the educational and If the students are successful, the cultural needs of the community, Great responsibility charter is renewed at the end of the charter schools have the flexibility Charter schools were created five-year term. to meet the educational standards through legislation via the New York According to charter by-laws, par- by offering a unique combination of State Charter Schools Act of 1998 and ents are encouraged to serve on the culture and academics. But the com- are comparatively new. The zeal for board of the local school so that munity might not always know about innovative public education comes their voices are an integral part of the school. In those instances, the with responsibility. Most charter the school’s operation. school must do outreach within the schools are started from scratch “I teach in a regular public high community to get their seats filled. and go through a rigorous applica- school. My opinion of charter schools The school will produce multilingual tion process and must perform up is simple: when your selection of stu- flyers and go door to door, as well to the Department of Education’s dents are ones that are fighting to as use radio, television, and print standards. In addition, these schools get in or have parents that are fight- advertising to alert the community must independently manage their ing to get into a better school, that of the new school. human and financial resources for school has a much better chance for Outreach serves a dual purpose themselves. They are accountable success,” says John, a teacher. “That — to notify parents of the school and for every area of the school’s growth is the clear difference.” to familiarize them with the admis- and performance. Everything from Despite unconventional methods sion process. picking a principal, faculty, admin- or curricula, charters seek to unify The three-step admission process

34 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 — zoning, application and lottery mental themes and civic work in — can be tricky. But, once a child the curriculum. The school did not is enrolled, preference is given to shy away from connecting its envi- The Ethical Community his siblings, as well as to the sib- ronmental focus to the neighbor- lings of students living in the charter hood issues that affect students Charter School school’s district. All students who and their families, like contamina- are eligible to attend New York City tion in waterways, water quality, public schools can apply to a charter and housing issues. school. The process becomes even “Green is not just the environ- more trying for the parents when a ment. It’s politics, government, so- charter school announces its open- cial justice,” Green School student ing — before the school’s physical Jennifer told the New York Times. location has been determined. The Department of Education’s “When I got the flyer about the 2008-2009 Quality Review praised charter school, I was skeptical, this school’s “strong, comprehen- but I went to the meetings and be- sive” advisory program, citing “sig- School Tour Dates lieved that the school could work nificant personal and academic for [my son] William,” says Mi- growth of students.” March 8, Thursday, 9am • March 29, Thursday, 9am chelle, a middle school teacher March 29, Thursday, 5:30pm in the Bronx. “Sure, it was a new Charter school school that no one ever heard of… culture • Small Class Sizes • Ethics Curriculum but I liked the principal and be- New York is known for its di- lieved that it would work. He was verse population, some of whom • Special Teachers • Inquiry-Based Science always a good student, but he is may speak different languages or To Serve English And Social Studies doing better than ever.” may have disabilities or emotional Language Learners, • Parents As Partners needs. To accommodate a commu- Special Needs • 190 School Days State educational nity, charter schools may choose standards with to address one of these needs or • Arts Integrated • 8:00-4:00 Every Day / innovative provide enrichment in that area. With The Curriculum School Buses curriculum The Hebrew Language Academy rd Charter schools report to the is one of the 70-plus dual-language 700 Park Avenue, 3 Floor • Brooklyn, NY 11206 state education department. As with programs already established in 718-599-2176 all public schools, the charter school New York City public schools. Be- curriculum and test scores must cause state and federal separation www.teccs-ny.org meet the state educational stan- of religion is mandated, the school dards in order for the school to con- offers itself as a cultural institution tinue operating. However, the char- that teaches “Hebrew as a distinct ter schools are governed by their language and culture that stands The Brooklyn own nonprofit boards of trustees on its own.” References to religious who can bring in an innovative cur- customs are part of the school’s Charter School riculum and do corporate fund rais- history and culture lessons. To add ing under a five-year performance diversity to the organization, Bap- contract, known as a charter. tist minister Karim Camera serves Now Accepting When a charter school is not on the board of trustees. Applications K-5! successful, it closes. Sometimes Charter schools may also cater parents feel that a local charter to youth with special needs. The Parents are invited to the Open House and Tour Sessions to learn school is no better or worse than Lavelle Charter School on Staten more about our school and its academic program. the traditional public school. Island, a middle school with plans This puts the onus of researching to grow into a high school, inte- ABOUT US school options on the parents. grates children with a wide variety • Average class size of 20 students The Bronx Charter School for of special needs into classes, and a the Arts works in partnership with Bronx Montessori School for kids • Classroom fully inclusive Lincoln Center and the Guggenheim learning to speak English will open • Highly qualifi ed, well-trained Museum to provide instruction for in the fall. The Broome Street Acad- teachers students in kindergarten through emy high school will target home- • Well-rounded curriculum fifth grade in music, theatre, art, less and disadvantaged teens. dance, and academics. In this For more information on education • Integrated Arts program including school, art is laced with academics, and charter schools, visit schools.nyc. Dance and Music Non-discriminatory Policy! and students will make up plays gov; nycdoe.info; insideschools.org; • English Language Learners and use art in their coursework. nycharterparents.ning.com; linked. “The school does not have a org; and greatschools.org. TOUR lot of technology or after-school Candi Sparks is the author of chil- Wednesday at 9am - 10am programs, but the teachers get the dren’s books about money, including April 4, 2012 message across,” says Rhonda, “Nacho Money,” “Can I Have Some whose daughter, Maria, is a fifth- Money?,” “Educating Children About The Brooklyn Charter School, 545 Willoughby Ave., 3rd Floor grader there. “Maria learned geom- Money,” and “Max Gets It!” She is Between Marcy and Tompkins Aves. etry by making a quilt.” the Brooklyn mother of two and is on For more information call (718) 302-2085 The Green School in Williams- Facebook and Twitter. For more, visit Applications available online. burg, Brooklyn, combines environ- candisparks.com. Visit us at www.brooklyncharter.org

MarchMonth 2012 2012 • BROOKLYN • XXXXX FamiFamilyly 3539 teens

more about raising my dog. I took on greater responsibilities, includ- ing feeding Bruno. It started as a Loving my weekend chore and grew to be a daily task, which I enjoyed. Maybe it was the fact that I got to use the super-fun can opener or perhaps, it was just the feeling of importance. His dinner time was 6 pm, and if I furry friend was late, there were consequences: Bruno would glance at me disap- Lessons from a beloved dog provingly, and I would feel guilty for neglecting my “brother” and friend. A Teen’s TAke rowing up with a pet is one feeding and walking him taught me These tasks reminded me that I was AglAiA Ho of the most valuable experi- responsibility. growing up. I helped to raise Bruno, G ences for a child. Just shar- Bruno was a mixed-breed dog (or but Bruno also helped raise me, ing a bit of tender loving care with mutt, as we affectionately teased contributing to my development a dog or cat can change your life him). He had the coloring of a golden and growth. forever and teach you important les- retriever, a beautiful blonde coat Still, it takes an entire family sons about love and responsibility. streaked with white; the nose of a to care for a dog. My parents and My dog, Bruno, enriched my life in collie, a long, rounded muzzle; and I were all dedicated to caring for so many ways. He served as my ears that resembled a husky’s, point- Bruno. He was a member of our “brother,” watching out for me and ing straight into the air. family and helped bring us together. keeping me entertained when I was He was a rescue from the North We would walk Bruno through our young, and as I grew up, chores of Shore Animal League on Long Island. neighborhood at sunset, and when We spoiled him with love and at- we watched movies, he would curl tention, although we couldn’t af- up at our feet. I still recall those ford velvet beds or gour- peaceful evenings when my par- met food. It ents would be reading, I would be didn’t take messing around with the guitar, long for our and Bruno would be sleeping in four-legged the corner. Those simple memories friend to still remind us today that family make his trumps all. way into our Eventually, Bruno succumbed to hearts and be- old age. He lived to be 18 years old come an unfor- (around 88 in human years)! It was gettable addition to an incredible feat for a medium-sized our family. dog from the shelter to live that long. Ever since I was born, We were completely devastated, Bruno was a big part but coming to terms with his death of my life. He stood brought us closer together as a fam- by my crib and ily. Bruno left such a huge impact on was always on our lives, and he’ll continue to live on “baby patrol.” in spirit and memory. Whenever I Every child should have the op- cried, he’d portunity to grow up with a pet. Big run to find or small, they provide us with joy my parents, and excitement, as well as important much like an lessons. They are patient teachers older sibling. and have the capability of fostering Never once did I maturity and respect. They are also think of him as just our best psychologists, understand- a dog. Without siblings of ing our emotions and alleviating our my own, Bruno was a big distress. If you’re looking for that source of my entertainment. I special companion, consider adopt- would line up my toys by his side ing your new friend from an animal and make my dolls ride on his back. shelter. You’ll be surprised by all the I also used to play hide-and-seek animals you’ll find there. with him — a modified version in Aglaia Ho is a 16-year-old student which he would run around the from Queens who enjoys writing. Her kitchen looking for the treat I hid. work has been published in Creative What a great brother to put up with Kids, Skipping Stones, Daily News/Chil- my games! dren’s Pressline, and The State of the As I grew older, I started to learn Wild.

36 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 teens more about raising my dog. I took on greater responsibilities, includ- ing feeding Bruno. It started as a Loving my weekend chore and grew to be a daily task, which I enjoyed. Maybe it was the fact that I got to use the super-fun can opener or perhaps, it was just the feeling of importance. His dinner time was 6 pm, and if I furry friend was late, there were consequences: Bruno would glance at me disap- Lessons from a beloved dog provingly, and I would feel guilty for neglecting my “brother” and friend. A Teen’s TAke rowing up with a pet is one feeding and walking him taught me These tasks reminded me that I was AglAiA Ho of the most valuable experi- responsibility. growing up. I helped to raise Bruno, G ences for a child. Just shar- Bruno was a mixed-breed dog (or but Bruno also helped raise me, ing a bit of tender loving care with mutt, as we affectionately teased contributing to my development a dog or cat can change your life him). He had the coloring of a golden and growth. forever and teach you important les- retriever, a beautiful blonde coat Still, it takes an entire family sons about love and responsibility. streaked with white; the nose of a to care for a dog. My parents and My dog, Bruno, enriched my life in collie, a long, rounded muzzle; and I were all dedicated to caring for so many ways. He served as my ears that resembled a husky’s, point- Bruno. He was a member of our “brother,” watching out for me and ing straight into the air. family and helped bring us together. keeping me entertained when I was He was a rescue from the North We would walk Bruno through our young, and as I grew up, chores of Shore Animal League on Long Island. neighborhood at sunset, and when We spoiled him with love and at- we watched movies, he would curl tention, although we couldn’t af- up at our feet. I still recall those ford velvet beds or gour- peaceful evenings when my par- Sensory Street is a specialized Occupational Therapy practice servicing met food. It ents would be reading, I would be didn’t take messing around with the guitar, young clients. It is the route where your child will be appropriately challenged long for our and Bruno would be sleeping in four-legged the corner. Those simple memories to developing the skills that are essential for greater independence in life. friend to still remind us today that family Our Mission is to enhance the lives of young clients so they can be successful make his trumps all. way into our Eventually, Bruno succumbed to in meeting their daily childhood occupations (self-care, play, socialization, school). hearts and be- old age. He lived to be 18 years old come an unfor- (around 88 in human years)! It was gettable addition to an incredible feat for a medium-sized THERAPEUTIC ACTIVTIES AND EXERCISES GEARED TO IMPROVE: our family. dog from the shelter to live that long. Ever since I was born, We were completely devastated, Coming Soon! Bruno was a big part but coming to terms with his death of my life. He stood brought us closer together as a fam- Registration for Independence YOGA/ by my crib and ily. Bruno left such a huge impact on was always on our lives, and he’ll continue to live on Sensory Summer MOVEMENT “baby patrol.” in spirit and memory. Whenever I Every child should have the op- FUN Workshops Cognitive Skills Handwriting Skills CLASSES cried, he’d portunity to grow up with a pet. Big run to find or small, they provide us with joy FOR KIDS my parents, and excitement, as well as important We much like an lessons. They are patient teachers Range of Motion Coordination Gross Motor Skills older sibling. and have the capability of fostering now offer Never once did I maturity and respect. They are also Sensory think of him as just our best psychologists, understand- Birthday a dog. Without siblings of ing our emotions and alleviating our Fine Motor Skills Motor Planning Endurance my own, Bruno was a big distress. If you’re looking for that Parties Attending Skills source of my entertainment. I special companion, consider adopt- would line up my toys by his side ing your new friend from an animal and make my dolls ride on his back. shelter. You’ll be surprised by all the Proceptual I also used to play hide-and-seek animals you’ll find there. Sensory Processing Muscle Strength Postural Control Body Awareness with him — a modified version in Aglaia Ho is a 16-year-old student Motor Skills which he would run around the from Queens who enjoys writing. Her kitchen looking for the treat I hid. work has been published in Creative Beatrice C. Hector OTR/L • 178 Flatbush Avenue • Brooklyn, NY 11217 What a great brother to put up with Kids, Skipping Stones, Daily News/Chil- my games! dren’s Pressline, and The State of the General Info (718) 398-8000 • To contact the OT and Appointment (516) 589-2721 As I grew older, I started to learn Wild.

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 37 HealtH

Family HealtH Dr. PramoD Narula, mD Chairman of Pediatrics New York methodist Hospital

talking with her pediatrician. Not all teas or over-the-counter medica- tions are safe for babies. Coping with a If the problem does not appear to be food related, parents may want to try changing the baby’s sensory stimulation. Some infants do not colicky baby like a very lively environment and are hypersensitive to loud noises My newborn daughter cries contin- age. While there is no single cause and bright lights. White noise, such ually, no matter what I do. I try holding for colic, several factors may be con- as static from a radio, is sometimes her and comforting her, but she keeps tributing to your baby’s discomfort. helpful. Many infants also respond crying. Am I doing anything wrong? Many formula-fed infants cannot well to classical music playing softly What does this mean for her health? properly digest cow’s milk or lac- in the background. Try lowering the tose and, as a result, cry from the lights to help calm the baby. f you are concerned about the discomfort. Babies are also prone Finally, many new parents find health of your newborn, it is al- to acid reflux and excessive gas, that their baby enjoys the move- I ways best to be safe and have due to their underdeveloped diges- ment of taking a ride in a stroller or the baby examined by a pediatri- tive tracts. If you or your doctor car. If the weather is pleasant, con- cian. However, many new parents suspects that the formula is causing sider taking the baby out to soothe experience what you are describ- the problem, you may be able to de- the crying. ing in the first few weeks follow- crease your baby’s distress through Some parents may find that they ing their baby’s birth. Be sure that trial and error. If you are formula cannot stop colic completely. While your baby eats and naps often, as feeding, try switching to a soy for- a constantly crying baby can be she could be reacting to hunger or mula for a week to see if the infant frustrating, it does not indicate that sleepiness. If your baby continues seems more comfortable. you are a bad parent. Rest assured to cry with the same intensity, she Burping a baby frequently dur- that you will have many joys ahead may have colic. ing feeding also decreases air swal- with your child. You just need to get Colic is defined as a condition lowing, which means less gas and through this difficult period. If you of a healthy baby showing periods discomfort. feel tense from the constant crying of intense, unexplained crying that Remedies for medical and diges- and need a break, ask a friend or lasts more than three hours a day, tive causes of colic include acid- family member to watch the child more than three days a week for reflux medication, herbal teas, and for a little while, so that you can more than three weeks. Colic usu- anti-gas drops. However, you should clear your mind or catch up on ally disappears by 3 or 4 months of never treat your infant without first some rest.

38 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 NIGHT & WEEKEND CHILDCARE SERVICES

AVAILABLE LICENSED NIGHTS & REASONABLE BY RATES SERVING WEEKENDS N.Y.D.O.H. YOUR HEALTHY CHILD & MEALS & INFANT CPR HOMEWORK CHILDCARE SNACKS CERTIFIED HELP NEEDS HEAD FIELD START FOR EDUCATIONAL FOR TRIPS GAMES & PRESCHOOLERS ACTIVITIES OVER

HEALTH AVAILABLE 10 & SAFTEY CHILDREN’S GARDENING ON CERTIFIED HOLIDAYS YEARS NANDI: (347) 600-5677 • WWW.NIGHTANDWEEKENDCHILDCARE.COM

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 39 Parenting

hand, worry more about personal safety issues, such as sexual preda- tors on college campuses, stalking, Boys vs. girls and date rape. Does this mean that parents should allow their daughters to have Should the parenting playbook driver’s licenses at a younger age or their sons to go out on dates earlier be the same for all teens? than their daughters? “All teens experience risk and par- y daughter was a ents should be observant,” Assel quintessential tom- cautions. M boy. Years ago, you Lions and would likely find her running gender rules through mud puddles with “Having different rules for differ- tigers and the boys in our neighbor- ent sexes seems unequal to me — hood, rather than dressing with one exception,” explains Kucz- teens up for a pretend tea party marski. “Girls should be taught self- Myrna Beth haskell with her female counterparts. defense skills to protect themselves, Today, she continues to enjoy as often their bodies are smaller.” She days packed with activities says parents should initiate frequent as opposed to endless banter discussions to help teens, male and over the latest teen gossip. female, make safe choices. When it comes to friend- Kuczmarski stresses that parents ship issues, though, the female should give their teens equal respon- teen scene seems packed with sibilities around the house. melodrama. Evidently, there “Chores should transcend tradi- is something earth-shattering tional gender boundaries. Young men going on every day. On the need to cook, iron and do laundry. other hand, my son and his Young women need to handle tools, friends have coasted through high grudges. Male teenagers often seem change car oil, and maintain yards.” school without the constant social to want to escape an unpleasant situ- Assel agrees. drama. ation,” says Assel. Of course, there “Having certain rules for one sex Most can probably agree that are many exceptions. versus another is probably not the we all possess both masculine and “Old schoolers argue that girls best idea,” says Assel. “The privi- feminine characteristics. However, are more social and boys are more leges a child earns should be based if there are distinct social or be- physical,” says Susan Kuczmarski, on how they have handled responsi- havioral differences, should parents EdD, author of “The Sacred Flight bilities in the past.” then raise the genders differently? of the Teenager: A Parent’s Guide to Stepping Back and Letting Go.” tips and tales Behaviors and the She feels it is important to empha- “I had the same expectations with social scene size the similarities, and believes we my daughter and sons. I found that “In recent years, there has been a shouldn’t focus on the stereotypes differences in their personalities af- great deal of empirical research that — sometimes boys are more social, fected how they responded to ex- suggests there are real differences. and girls are more physical. pectations, but I do not believe that Neuroimaging studies have been find- “It is unfair to paint girl or boy these are gender differences.” ing some interesting differences be- teenagers with such a broad brush — Nancy Serdich Hulton, Staatsburg, NY tween teen boys and girls,” reports stroke,” explains Assel. He also be- “For girls, it’s drama and melo- Michael A. Assel, PhD, an associate lieves there are many exceptions. drama. For boys, it’s adventure and professor of pediatrics at the Univer- comedy.” sity of Texas Health Science Center. Safety and sensibility — Arelene Boulware, Hyde Park, NY Researchers have found that there Parents are often cognizant of dif- are gender differences in the brain, ferences as they ponder safety is- Want to share your such as girls having more serotonin sues. ideas? and stronger neural connectors and Parents of boys tend to worry more Upcoming topic: Tips for Sweet 16 boys having less oxytocin. In part, about driving safety. It’s hard not to parties that don’t break the budget! neurological differences account for when one considers the statistics: Ac- Please send your full name, address, characteristics such as boys being cording to a 2009 report published by and brief comments to myrnahaskell@ more impulsive and girls being more the National Highway Traffic Safety gmail.com, or visit www.myrnahaskell. communicative. Administration, the number of male com. “From a sociocultural perspec- drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 Myrna Beth Haskell is a feature writer tive, girls tend to be seen as valuing involved in fatal traffic accidents was and columnist specializing in parent- communication more than males. more than twice that of female drivers ing issues and child and adolescent I have clinically noticed that girls in the same age group. development. She is the mother of two tend to be much better at holding Parents of girls, on the other teenagers.

40 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 BU
UIF
$PTNJD
$PWF The NCE CIE S

CARMELO F E L LO W

t
"GUFS
4DIPPM
$MBTTFT t
#JSUIEBZ
1BSUJFT t
4DJFODF
4VNNFS
$BNQT t
5SJQT Parent’s Picks winner! t
5PEEMFS
$MBTTFT PARENT’S CONNECT COM Best Party t
4DJFODF
1MBZ
HSPVQ Entertainer Best Day& Camp in Brooklyn! PPhohotoo byby HeHeae theerWr Weesestonn ‘CarmeloCarmelo the Marshmallow’ Piazza

Children are born scientists; they investigate every facet of life. The Cosmic Cove takes a child’s curiosity and investigative nature and inspires their minds to explore all aspects of the world around them. The Cosmic Cove By using a hands-on inquiry based approach to teaching science, I have motivated thousands of children in the many disciplines of science. 300 Atlantic Ave Children learn in an atmosphere where they are allowed to laugh and Brooklyn, NY 11201 learn. They work in collaborative groups, and are encouraged to communicate and share their findings. for more info:

The Cosmic Cove is a place where children can call Carmelo the Science 718.722.0000 Fellow the big marshmallow because learning should be fun. 718.344.4631 www.carmelothesciencefellow.com Web & Print services by lafadesign.com

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 41 Education Putting students How this By Allison Plitt tates — including New York organization — have been forced to dras- S tically reduce the budgets of public schools, because of the is working stuggling U.S. economy. As a result, first the nation’s schools are now facing this can push competent teachers ceive report cards that give a school to improve more dire circumstances than ever out of jobs while retaining more ex- a letter grade based primarily on — overcrowding, poorly maintained perienced teachers who may not be its academic achievement. These re- facilities, underpaid teachers, and a as “effective” in classrooms. port cards will make schools more the nation’s bureaucratic system that often pre- Rhee says she believes that teach- transparent for parents, and will give vents students from receiving the ers can improve their skills as edu- the schools an incentive to raise stu- quality education they deserve. One cators if they are given evaluations dents’ performances, according to school organization is working to reform the with constructive feedback. She the organization. nation’s schools by putting students’ thinks teachers’ evaluations should It also believes in the concept of systems interests first. be based on criteria such as stu- parents having a “choice” in their chil- StudentsFirst was created by Mi- dents’ test scores, observations by dren’s education. One such choice that chelle Rhee, an educator and for- trained professionals, and feedback StudentsFirst argues for is for parents mer chancellor of Washington, D.C. from students, parents, and princi- to create their own publicly funded schools from 2007 to 2010, who saw pals. If teachers receive good evalu- schools, known as charter schools. the need for a shift in school sys- ations, says Rhee, then they can be Each school has a charter that states tems. She launched the organization deemed “effective” educators. its own set of rules and standards, but on the “Oprah Winfrey Show” in De- StudentsFirst supports the use of the school is still held accountable for cember 2010 and within a year, an- technology so that qualified teachers its students’ performances, especially nounced that it had more than one can bring personalized instruction to on standardized testing. Currently, million members. students in low-performing schools. many state laws limit the number of The Sacramento, Calif.-based or- When students learn through online public charter schools that can be ganization has organized its “top instruction, it says, they are able to created — a policy that StudentsFirst priorities for change” into three learn a greater variety of subjects. says needs to be eliminated. categories: to improve the teaching Bill Gates, former CEO and cur- In addition to charter schools, profession, to empower parents by rent chairman of Microsoft Comput- StudentsFirst is in favor of publicly giving them more knowledge about ers, is backing Rhee in her push for funded scholarship programs for low- their children’s education, and to state legislation to “facilitate digital income families to send their children call on politicians nationwide to pass learning” and allow students to take to high-quality private schools. legislation for improving each state’s classes via the computer, instead In California, community organiz- public school system. of being obligated to learn in class- ers have introduced a “policy inno- rooms, for course credit. vation” that would allow parents to Last in, first out sign a petition, so they can gain “legal StudentsFirst’s main goal is to Parental decisions authority” to try and improve a fail- eliminate teacher tenure, which it The organization says it wants to ing school. This can include hiring a claims will “elevate the teaching pro- give parents more information about new principal, or “putting the school fession.” Instead, it wants teachers the schools their children are at- under the management of a high-per- to be paid according to their abilities tending, so that they can make more forming charter school operator.” to teach, not based on their senior- informed decisions about their chil- Another alternative is for parents ity. The organization says it finds it dren’s education. to sign a consent form before their unfair that when state budget reduc- First, all public school students children are placed in a classroom tions force school districts to fire should receive equal funding, no mat- with a teacher identified as “ineffec- educators, the last teachers hired ter what school they attend, “as long tive.” They would also have the choice are the first fired. as the schools prove results over to have their children reassigned to This policy, called “last in, first time,” says StudentsFirst. All fami- another classroom with a teacher who out,” is also, according to Students- lies should receive customized re- has a better performance record. First, financially impractical, be- ports about their children’s academic cause schools are firing the least- growth in comparison to students in Budgets experienced teachers who have the other schools, districts, and states. StudentsFirst’s third “policy pri- lowest salaries. StudentsFirst thinks Furthermore, parents should re- ority for change” is to “ensure that

42 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 sistant Secretary of Education under former President George H.W. Bush. In 2010, Ravitch published her 13th book, “The Death and Life of the Great American School System: How Testing and Choice are Undermining Education,” in which she took a pub- lic stance against Rhee. Once a proponent of charter schools and merit pay, Ravitch says she now sees schools as having a “corporatist agenda,” in which par- ents can choose their children’s schools, and standardized testing determines whether a teacher is ef- fective or not. With her view of edu- cators with years of classroom expe- rience as valuable assets to public schools, Ravitch has won many fol- lowers from teachers’ unions. Ravitch also criticized Rhee for closing 20 low-performing D.C. schools during her tenure. Following the closings, many parents in the community said they would have pre- ferred that the schools stayed open and received additional funding and resources from the government. • • • No matter who their fans or crit- ics are, Rhee and StudentsFirst are Michelle Rhee, the founder of StudentsFirst. crossing political party lines and gaining more attention in the media taxpayer resources are spent wisely Supporters United Federation of Teachers this due to their lobbying. Calling her and are focused on improving out- With a very specific policy agenda year to improve teacher evaluations agenda “bipartisan,” Rhee advises comes for children and families.” For behind it, StudentsFirst was respon- and merit pay. Republican governors like Rick Scott instance, it supports a structure in sible for changing legislature in seven of Florida and Chris Christie of New which the city mayor takes control of states in 2011. Some of the laws it Opponents Jersey, yet her spokesperson at Stu- the public schools and “holds them amended included abolishing the Although Rhee has many pub- dentsFirst, Hari Sevugan, is the for- accountable to the students’ results.” “last in, first out” practice, reform- lic supporters, she has also been a mer national press secretary for the It also wants school budgets to be ing teacher tenure and evaluations, controversial figure in the field of Democratic National Committee. shared with the public so that states allowing teachers to receive merit education. While she was chancellor Despite her political alliances on a and districts do not use taxpayers’ pay, expanding successful charter of Washington D.C. public schools, state level, Rhee says she still believes dollars on ineffective teaching prac- schools, offering parents more in- Rhee angered the Washington Teach- that StudentsFirst needs the support tices. According to StudentsFirst, formation about their local schools, ers’ Union when she fired 461 teach- of citizens in local school districts state programs to reduce class sizes and providing school scholarships ers for “bad performance.” When for- if reform is necessary to occur. As and increase teachers’ salaries for to low-income students. mer Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, who ap- the organization states on its website, advanced degrees “might have mar- Besides Gates, Rhee has many pointed Rhee to chancellor, did not its vision is “to transform America’s ginal benefits, but the evidence of other high-profile supporters, includ- win the D.C. Democratic primary in schools through building a national their effect on student achievement ing Mayor Bloomberg, who ha s pra ised September 2010, she resigned from grassroots movement of parents, is weak.” StudentsFirst. Keeping in step with its her position. teachers, students, and concerned Consequently, StudentsFirst op- policies for change, Bloomberg took More controversy erupted in 2011 citizens who demand change.” poses the billions of dollars states mayoral control of city schools as when several U.S. school districts, Visit studentsfirst.org to find infor- spend on legislation to limit class- soon as he was elected. In 2007, he including Washington, were accused mation about the policies StudentsFirst room sizes. It argues that there is created “progress reports,” in which of cheating on state assessment supports and the contributions members evidence indicating that as soon as schools receive letter grades based tests during Rhee’s tenure. Since she can make either through donations or children reach third grade, the size of on various standards, primarily stu- had placed so much emphasis on joining online groups to participate in the students’ classrooms show no ef- dent test scores. standardized test scores to evaluate advocacy work. fect on their performances. Further- Like Rhee’s push for tenure re- and compensate teachers and princi- Allison Plitt is a contributing writer more, the organization insists that form, Bloomberg restructured tenure pals, many educators blamed her for, for New York Parenting Media and a “school districts nationwide spend for city teachers in 2008 by granting what they said, was practically forc- mother living in Queens with a 6-year- $9 billion on supplementary pay” tenure to teachers based on perfor- ing schools to cheat on tests. old daughter. If you have ideas to share for teachers with advanced degrees, mance — not seniority. In his State of One of Rhee’s most prominent about topics for articles or resources for which the organization says has “no the City address in January of 2012, critics is Diane Ravitch, an educa- families, please contact her at allison- correlation to student achievement.” he said he hoped to work with the tion historian and former U.S. As- [email protected].

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 43 Parenting Rockabye baby By Belinda Mooney Babies are adjusting to their new life have been met can prevent sleep Getting your in the world, and this includes adjust- issues. A full tummy, clean diaper, hen you have a newborn ing to sleeping. and appropriate clothing for the baby to sleep baby, getting her to sleep Most babies will sleep from two to temperature can make a big dif- W through the night seems four hours at a time, even at night. As ference at bedtime. If your baby is like a monumental hurdle. In the your baby gets older, the sleep time cold, she will not sleep. The same through the quest to get baby to sleep, parents at night will get longer. Even though goes for babies who are overheated. turn to a variety of sources, like you don’t want to hurry the process, A chilly, wet baby is definitely not a retail stores that offer a seemingly there are things you can do to help happy baby. night endless variety of items that prom- your baby understand what bedtime ise to put their babies to sleep. is all about. Be creative They have everything from cradles If what you are doing is not solving that rock themselves to blankets establish a routine the problem, get creative. If you have that have an audible heartbeat. Al- Most adults have certain things been simply covering your baby with though these items seem like the they do at night to wind down and a blanket, try swaddling her. Some only solution, the key to getting get ready for bed. You can teach babies love to be tightly swaddled. your baby to do the If rocking her to sleep isn’t working, same thing. Your per- try walking with her or laying her in sonality and schedule her bed and patting her back. Just as will determine your ba- you have likes and dislikes, so does by’s nighttime routine. your baby. Take the time to learn Give your baby a from your baby and cater to her likes warm bath before and dislikes. she goes to bed every night. A warm bath is Little things that can soothing at any age and help helps the baby relax. To make bedtime as easy as pos- Doing it every night sible, you need to set the stage. Make establishes a routine. sure the baby’s room is dark at night. Establishing a pattern You want the room warm, but not prepares baby, men- stifling. Play with baby during the tally, for bedtime. Giv- day when she is awake and keep her ing a warm bath, nurs- stimulated. When she wakes at night, ing, and then tucking keep things calm. Feed or comfort baby in is an example her, keeping the lights off, and do of a patterned routine. whatever you normally do when put- ting her to sleep. Doing little things Know when like this can prevent sleep issues your baby is before they arise. really asleep your baby to sleep is understanding If your baby consistently cries Have realistic normal baby sleeping patterns and when you put her down, she may not expectations creating a routine to get your baby have been in a deep sleep. She may Keep your expectations realistic. ready for bed. have been in the early, light stage Don’t compare your baby to other ba- of sleep, when eyes flutter and she bies. Just because Sue’s baby sleeps How long should my smiles and often jerks. You want to eight hours straight doesn’t mean baby sleep? wait until baby is in what some doc- yours will — or should. Remember, Although the idea of a good night’s tors call the “limp limb” stage. In this stage won’t last forever, and sleep is appealing to both mom and this stage, she is completely relaxed your baby will sleep through the dad, it may not be realistic. Most new- and her limbs are limp and hanging. night eventually. When you are at borns and babies under six months Waiting until your baby is in this the end of your rope, remembering will not sleep through the night, be- stage can prevent baby from waking that your baby can’t do something cause they are actually not physically and crying. that’s physically impossible can help designed to sleep that long. Their calm your concerns. stomachs are not big enough to hold Make sure baby’s Belinda J. Mooney is a busy mom enough food to get them through the needs are met of seven. You can visit her at www.chil- night, especially if they are breastfed. Making sure your baby’s needs drensrecipes.com.

44 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 It figures By Cynthia Washam Prodigy Points

Age of golfer Age of University of 13:Michelle 13:Connecticut sophomore Colin Wie when she won Carlson in 2010, when he sued the the USGA women’s university for denying his request Amateur Public to take a class involving field work Links adult national in South Africa, because he was too championship. young. AP / Sean Kilpatrick

Age upstate Age Bostonian 4:New 10:Victoria

AP / Anne Ryan Yorker Marla Yin first displayed Age of Sho Yano Olmstead started her paintings in an 18: (above) in 2009, earning tens of international art when he got a PhD in thousands of exhibit, Artexpo 2008, molecular genetics and cell dollars for each in Las Vegas. biology from the University of her abstract of Chicago. paintings, Age her sister in spite of 8:Zoe first Age his sister widespread displayed in an 13:Sayuri earned her suspicions that international exhibit. bachelor’s degree, in 2010, they were the from Chicago’s Roosevelt work of her father. University. Photo by Mark and Laura Olmstead name game

Percent of boys in the 1880s given one of the Percent of girls in 1945 40:10 most common names. 25:given a top-10 name.

Percent given one Percent today. Less than 10: of the top 10 today. 8:

33: 3 to 5: Percent of teachers Percent lower than average who say they can that children with names with spot troublemakers unconventional spellings — based on their such as Jackquelyn — scored on names. exams.

Sources: The Huffington Post, NBCChicago.com, Wikipedia.com, Artexponewyork.com, LiveScience.com, ScienceFocus.com, Brilliant-baby-names.com.

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 45 fitness Moms find their stride How beginners By Deanne Haines running epidemic can start is sweeping my able sports bra. Your ward- A circle of mom robe can even be a source friends. Evidence of it of motivation for you, like it is moving, stay appears on Facebook for my friend, Sarah. She runs numerous times a week late in the day, but immediately motivated, with status updates of changes into her running clothes races run, miles clocked, and goals when she gets home from work. and live reached. “Even if I’m not going out for a My friends and I aren’t alone. Pam run until later, I figure I’ll feel guilty healthier Burrus, co-founder of the nationwide, if I have to change out of my run- moms-only running club, Moms RUN ning clothes without having gone This Town, can attest to the fact that for a run,” she says. moms everywhere are taking up run- • R u n outside whenever possi- ning. Her running club took off over- ble. Running outside is much differ- night with local chapters popping up ent than running on a treadmill, or all over the country. a “dreadmill,” as Burrus describes “I started dreaming up the idea it. Besides the fact that running on for a local running a treadmill can be boring, a tread- mill doesn’t give you the hilly terrain and wind resistance that can increase health benefits, like a run outside does. If you do run on a treadmill, put it at a slight incline to make up for some of the missed wind club, and when I came resistance. up with the name ‘Moms ner succeed in crossing the fin- • J o i n a running club. RUN This Town’ it almost im- ish line, as well as whittle away Joining a group of other mediately led itself to become a some unwanted weight. like-minded women can nationwide thing…and the next • Invest in proper shoes right make you more account- morning it was!” says Burrus. from the start. I can’t stress enough able to your running For me, personally, the running that you must buy proper running routine. bug hit two years ago when my shoes. I purchased a pair from a de- “Having account- friend and I trained for our first partment store that I thought were 5K. We both had just had our third good; it was, after all, in the aisle child and we were motivated to of shoes titled “running shoes.” I lose weight. ended up having knee pain while Once I started running, I was running, and my doctor ordered hooked. No other exercise I’ve done me straight to a running shoe-spe- has shed the pounds as quickly as cialty store. training for my first 5K. • Stock up on a couple of run- While beginning a running rou- ning outfits. What you specifically tine, I learned some useful ways to wear depends on the weather in start moving, stay motivated, and which you’re running, but make get the most out of a run. Here are sure you have at least a couple of 11 tips to help the beginner run- outfits — including a good, comfort- 46 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 ability partners and other moms ning.com is an excellent resource in the group that literally started that gives specific walk and run THE HELLENIC CLASSICAL from zero running experience instructions to follow. As always, and worked their way up to half check with your doctor before CHARTER SCHOOL and full marathons, seems to be starting any exercise plan. 646 Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn, NY • 718.499.0957 a motivational force that encour- • Knowing your distance mark- www.hccs-nys.org ages other moms to say, ‘I can do ers can be a great mo- Christina Tettonis, Principal this!’ ” says Burrus. tivator. I like know- • Sign up for a race. This was ing at what point I’ll my big motivation. Once I signed hit the one-mile and up, I knew I had exactly eight two-mile mark and weeks to train for it. With a goal so on. Know- of running the entire 5K, I didn’t ing how far have any time to waste. I have yet to • Having a running partner run and how is great, but not necessary. much I already Don’t let the fact that you are have under my belt We take Knowledge, Wisdom and Truth with us without a partner stop you helps keep me mo- to help make the world a better place from running. Running by tivated. School Mission: yourself allows you to go • Punch it up To provide a classic based school education, rich at your own pace and the hills. At the in the study of humanities and literature. at a time of day beginning, I was • Partnership with Teachers College/Columbia University • Debate Club, Book Club, Science Club, Cheerleading, • Partnership with the Greek Government NFTE (Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship), that works for hesitant to in- • Partnership with Time to Know Math Computer Program Math Club, School Newspaper, History Club, you. The re- corporate hilly • Studio in a School Art Residency Geography Club, Chess Club, Brooklyn Public Library sults you see roads into my • Music Programs: Violin, Recorders, Guitar, Chorus Brooklyn Connection, Student of the Month, on the scale Joining a group run. Seeing as • Smart Boards and Lap Tops Arista, Student Government will keep you I live at the top • Greek, Integrated Algebra and Earth Science Regents • Project Boost Trips to Washington D.C., motivated. of other like- of a hill, however, • Paideia Seminars Philadelphia, Boston • A d d vari- it was hard not to • Daily Classes of Greek Language, History, Art, Dance, • Highly Qualified, Certified Teachers ety to your run- minded women run down and in- Literature and Mythology • YMCA After School Program, After School ning routine. can make you more evitably run back • Study of Latin in upper grades Test Prep & Specialized HS Test Prep Try zigzagging up at some point. Open in and out of dif- accountable to your My best advice Sat., March 10, 2012 at 10am ferent neighbor- for hills is to at- House: hoods on your running routine. tack them. Don’t runs, or break up give yourself per- your usual run- mission to jog up A Brand New ning routine with slowly; instead, some sprints on cer- run as fast as Day Care tain days. Anything to you can up help your routine stay them — you fresh and keep your mind get the hills from becoming bored. over with faster, • Make use of running and you literally feel technology. Many options your legs getting stron- exist to help runners plot ger with every stride. their routes, record their If you need to walk Come Learn & Grow With Us distances, and calculate when you reach calories burned. One of the top, you can, u my favorites is Map- but you may find Ages 2-6 7:30am - 6pm MyRun.com, that once you’re on Year Round Registration which is a level ground again, useful web- you don’t need to take Full time & Part time site to help a break. u Meals included u NYS Certified you map Whether you want to teachers out your run while calculating lose weight, run your first u Licensed by your distance. Another one of 5K, or just keep an active NYC Department u All city vouchers my favorites is Nike + iPod Sport lifestyle, finding your stride of Health accepted Kit, which is a sensor you put in as a running mom will make you your shoe that gives automatic physically fit and a healthy role feedback of your distance, aver- model for your children. age miles per hour, and calories For more on Moms RUN This 1708 Flatbush Ave. burned directly to your iPod. Town, visit momsrunthistown.com. (between Ave. I & J) • Realize that it’s OK to walk Deanne Haines is a freelance when you get tired. For the be- writer and mother of three. In addi- ginner runner, a combination of tion to running road races, Haines is 718.676.5377 walking and running might be the looking forward to participating in safest way to start. The “Couch her first “mud run” obstacle course www.minimiraclesdc.com to 5K” running plan by CoolRun- later this year.

March 2012 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 47 around town Bjork has app-eal

By Laura Varoscak- tracks from her album. users can play a game that will stop Students work DeInnocentIIs These apps were the foundation of the song if they succeed in destroy- a three-week educational program, ing the virus. Lyrics appear on the with innovative celandic singer-songwriter Bjork sponsored by the artist, to teach the screen, many containing metaphors is changing the way people enjoy students from Corona and Flushing that relate to scientific concepts technology, I music with iPad apps that ex- how music relates to nature. In con- such as dark matter and DNA. pand on the songs from her new junction with the Creator’s Project, a The workshops culminated in live compliments of album, “Biophilia.” The apps push the global arts and technology initiative, shows Bjork performed at the New boundaries of music while exploring New York Hall of Science launched York Hall of Science and Roseland natural and technological themes in “NYSCI Neighbors,” a community pro- Ballroom last month. Those lucky an innovative her lyrics. Because it bridges enter- gram aimed at establishing a connec- enough to get tickets to the sold- tainment and education, 50 Queens tion with local schools and families. out events experienced an awesome pop star middle-school students recently had The workshops were run by pro- show by the award-winning artist. the opportunity to participate in gram instructors, as well as guest Performed in the round, the inti- workshops that let them explore the musicians and music teachers who mate, audio-visual concert featured CD’s scientific subject matter, too. delved into the different scientific a 24-member Icelandic female choir Bjork and a talented team of art- concepts on the album. Students par- and several custom-made instru- ists, designers, scientists, writers, ticipated in hands-on activities and ments including the gameleste (a and software developers have cre- demonstrations that explained the MIDI-controlled pipe organ), grav- ated a multimedia experience with science behind the album’s themes ity harps (four 10-foot pendulum the apps — one for each of the 13 and how they relate to music. They harps), and a sharpisichord (a pin also used the apps as barrel harp). Each reflected Bjork’s tools for music com- fascination with the connection be- position and produc- tween musicology and nature, like tion. the two large Tesla coils that hung With “Biophilia,” from the ceiling of the venue, both of the students studied which were transformers that played the universe on many notes by producing electricity. different levels, from “She likes pendulums as a manifes- atomic to cosmic. The tation of gravity. They transform one first song, “Cosmog- kind of energy into another and back ony,” invites students again,” explains gravity harp designer to journey through a Andy Cavatora of Bjork’s vision for three-dimensional gal- incorporating forces of nature, like axy. In the app that ac- lightening and magnetism, into the companies the song, show. “In this case, it’s gravitational there are 10 stars, potential energy and kinetic energy.” each representing a Bjork has created a revolutionary different tune. When way to enjoy music and transformed students tap on a star, it into something educational, too. they can explore the “Biophilia” offers mesmerizing new song in more depth. music while stimulating young With the song “Sol- minds with interactive technology. stice,” they can manip - Bjork’s cutting-edge experiment in ulate the music while the music world may very well influ- learning about the ence how children will be taught in movement of planets the future. and the earth’s rota- Laura Varoscak is a teacher and free- tion from the counter- lance writer. She is a regular contributor to point. “Moon” repeats New York Parenting Media and has won musical cycles similar editorial awards from Parent Publications to the lunar phases, of America. Varoscak holds master’s de- and the lyrics of grees in fiction writing, education and psy- “Virus” describe fatal chology. She lives in Bay Ridge and is the relationships, biologi- proud mom of two sons, Henry and Char- cally represented by lie. For more, visit www.examiner.com/ a virus and a cell. App parenting-in-new-york/laura-varoscak.

48 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 www.nyparenting.com

Where every family matters and where new york parents find help, info and support.

Great articles, a happening calendar, informative directories and ticket give-a-ways. Everyone’s a winner. Log-in, enter & find out. nyparenting Media/CnG [email protected] • 718-260-4554 March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 49 Parenting Secrets to raising a Can-Do Kid Children who pitch in around the house learn responsibility, organization, and save their parents from doing all of the work

By Sandra Gordon College in Massachusetts, who au- as, “I’d like you to take your dirty thored the study. dishes into the kitchen before going hen Allison Carter, an or- Sound familiar? At my house, I to bed, so we don’t come down to a ganization coach, got tired often find myself setting the table messy living room in the morning.” W of doing the endless piles while my kids do their homework, If dirty dishes are still there in the of laundry her family generated, she which just feels, well, wrong. Isn’t morning, let them pile up, even if didn’t hire a housekeeper. Instead, setting the table a kid’s job? It sure several days’ worth amasses. she taught her 9-year-old son and was when I was growing up. And I Consistency is key. Whatever you 12-year-old daughter to wash, fold, had a paper route, too. do, don’t touch the dishes, no mat- and put away their own clothes. Not Of course, chores aren’t some- ter how much they bother you. only has this step lightened Carter’s thing that you can expect your kids Then, just keep stating the rule, amount of housework, but it has also will want to do. Even you probably emphasizing that, as a family, you been good for the kids. don’t look forward to scrubbing all need to do your part to keep “If you run a full-service house- the toilet or taking out the trash. the house neat. When kids finally hold, your kids may never learn But because doing them fosters so get the message (and they will), how to do practical things like laun- much more than just getting a job reinforce that behavior with praise, dry or pick up after themselves,” done, they’re worth incorporating as in, “Thank you for bringing your Carter says. into your child’s busy schedule. dirty dishes into the kitchen. I love Indeed, studies show that hav- Here are five ways you can help how clean the living room is.” In ing children pitch in around the your kids learn to clean up their act time, picking up will become as house provides an opportunity for — and also teach them invaluable much of a habit for them as expect- them to learn about responsibility, life lessons. ing you to do it once was, Klapow organization, regard for others, and says. a general sense of being a capable Stop being a pick-up human being — all of which can artist Focus on the serve them well throughout their A natural place to start with outcome lives. household chores is teaching your Meanwhile, you can also encour- Still, a recent Wellesley Univer- kids to pick up after themselves, age your kids by offering an incen- sity study found that parents now which likely means resisting the tive to clean up. For example, tell typically only give their kids trivial urge to do the tidying. them that once they’ve picked up jobs, such as putting dishes in the “Every time you pick up after ev- their toys, they can go to the play- dishwasher. Schoolwork is their eryone, you reinforce the behavior ground. Or, once they’ve cleaned main task. and condition them to keep clutter- the den after their slumber party, “Although homework and aca- ing,” says Josh Klapow, PhD, a clini- then you can all go shopping. Or, demic curriculums can be much cal psychologist at the University of once they’ve emptied the dish- more demanding than in the past, Alabama at Birmingham School of washer, then they can go to their children may not be doing enough Public Health. Your kid learns that friend’s house. That’s not bribing. to help around the house to de- if he leaves his stuff around, you’ll Rather, it makes them understand velop a sense of competence,” says bail him out. that completing chores makes other Markella Rutherford, assistant pro- Instead, teach them to keep the fun activities possible. fessor of sociology at Wellesley house clean by stating a rule such Keep it positive by focusing on

50 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 how clean the playroom, or Rotate chores as much as pos- When kids finally get whatever room they’re tack- sible, given your children’s ages, ling, will look when they’re so that no one gets stuck with the the message (and they done. Concentrate on public same job. One idea? Put all the areas in your house, the common chores that need to be done into a will), reinforce that ground you all inhabit, where kids hat. Whatever gets drawn is your get the greatest sense that child’s job for the week. You can behavior with praise. “we’re all in this together,” also encourage your kids to work and consider letting them together, which fosters cooperation do what they want with and problem solving. their bedroom. “See if they can sort the tasks out “Short of breeding by themselves,” says Vicki Panac- MRSA, I think a child’s cione, PhD, president of the Better bedroom should be Parenting Institute in Melbourne, off limits to house- Fl., as in ‘you dust the furniture keeping rules,” says while I pick up the dog’s toys.’ That Carleton Kendrick, teaches another life skill: team- a family therapist in work.” Millis, Mass. Don’t be a nag Assign tasks If you’re always reminding your based on kids to do their chores, they’ll learn your child’s to depend on you for that cue. In- age stead, help them remember to do It’s never too early tasks without prodding by teaching to enlist your child’s them to evaluate their own work. assistance. Even pre- “If you go into the bathroom schoolers can put nap- and see the towels on the floor kins on the table, help again, for example, instead of say- match the socks, put ing, ‘Pick up the towels,’ ask your their toys away, and help child: ‘What’s wrong with this pic- you look for specific items ture?’” Panaccione suggests. An- at the supermarket from other option is to assign your kids their perch in the shopping to their own designated towel. If cart. From preschool to the it ends up on the bathroom floor lower elementary grades, again, so be it. That’s what they get you’ll need to do the task to use next time, which is a logical with them until they’re old consequence for not hanging the enough to do it themselves. towel up. Even a first grader isn’t likely to clean the living room Pile on the praise solo. Emphasize, “We’re doing “Giving lots of praise, especially this together,” without getting in the beginning, for every helpful angry. Over the years, you can thing your child does, even if it’s expect kids to do more with- small, helps reinforce the behav- out your support or reminding. ior,” Panaccione says. Eventually, the process will be- But rather than, “You’re the great- come ingrained and your kids est laundry folder in the world,” you will tidy up automatically. might say, “Oh, wow! You’re doing Based on your child’s age and such a great job folding all the laun- stage, the tasks he can be ex- dry. I’m so proud of you for helping pected to handle (from toddlers out.” to teens) might include putting “Make your accolades authentic,” his toys away, putting his back- Panaccione says. “Kids love it when pack away after school, putting you recognize their contribution his clean clothes in his dresser and honestly express gratitude; drawer, loading and emptying it’s a competence and confidence the dishwasher, taking out booster.” the garbage, setting the Sandra Gordon is a journalist and table, vacuuming and dust- author of “The Reunion Diet” and “Con- ing, mowing the lawn, wash- sumer Reports Best Baby Products.” E- ing the car, doing the laundry, mail her at [email protected]. making dinner and, later, doing For more, visit www.sandrajgordon.com, household errands around or her blog at www.shopsmartmag.org/ town with the family car. sandra-gordon/index.html.

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 51 BOOKS The call of the wild hroughout the school year, kids spend enough time in- T doors. When summer comes around — with the free time that comes with it — they plan on being outside as much as possible — hik- ing, exploring, and camping. But what if they get lost? How will THE BOOK they deal with not knowing where they are? Will they know what to WORM do, how to stay protected, where to TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER find food, and how to survive? They will if they’ve read “Survivor Kid: A Practical Guide to Wilderness Sur- vival” by Denise Long. So they’ve found a great new trail, and they can’t wait to explore it. There might be some birds or a creek they’ve never seen; for sure, it’s gonna be an adventure. But before you go, says Long, be responsible and tell an adult where you’re going and how long you expect to be gone. That way, if you get lost, someone knows where to look for you. OK, so they’re eager to get going. But what are they tak- ing with them? You can’t leave without planning, says Long. Take enough water to stay hy- drated, some food, and a sur- vival kit. She’ll tell you how to make one. That planning may really mean the difference be- tween harm and safety. It’s also a good idea to know ahead of time which plants are OK to eat — just in case — and where to find water if you run out. Now, back to that intriguing trail: Long says that anybody can mistake survival kit. If you’re lost, learn STOP. an animal trail for a human path, And, overall, keep reminding yourself reminded. but there are ways to be sure you that you’ll be OK. You’re a survivor! “Survivor Kid” is meant for middle- don’t stray the wrong way. Learn Parents, if you’ve got an adventur- schoolers, but I think high-school- how to mark your way, so if you get ous kid in the house — and particu- age students could use what’s in discombobulated, you can re-trace larly if you’re an outdoorsy person, here, too. If exploring is on your your steps. too — you know how important it is child’s agenda this summer, this is a And speaking of animals, it’s kind to always be prepared. Reading “Sur- great book to get lost in. of thrilling to know that you’re shar- vivor Kid” can help. “Survivor Kid: A Practical Guide to ing the wilderness with a cougar or Long, who has taught survival Wilderness Survival,” by Denise Long bear, but behind that thrill is danger. skills to kids as young as middle [223 pages, includes index, Chicago Know how to avoid encounters with school, doesn’t talk down to her Review Press, 2011, $12.95] is recom- predators, snakes, and insects. And, readers; instead, she uses real terms mended for middle-schoolers. of course, you’ll want to know how in a simple, direct way that’s easy to Terri Schlichenmeyer has been read- to build a temporary shelter to keep understand. Long is thorough in this ing since she was 3 years old, and you out of all kinds of harm’s way. guide, including advice that newbies she never goes anywhere without a Use your head, says Long, and need to know and of which experi- book. She lives on a hill with two dogs learn to use a compass. Build that enced hikers will appreciate being and 12,000 books.

52 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 APRIL 18-20, 2012 NINTH ANNUAL NEW YORK’S HOTEL PENNSYLVANIA (ACROSS FROM MADISON SQUARE GARDEN) HAPPINESS IS A HEALTHY MOUTH Help Your Child Start The School Year With A Healthy Smile. Healthy Smile... Healthy Children

More than 25 Conference sessions Full and Half-day Workshops 30 Exhibitors and Over 1,000 Attendees expected

ADHD Educational Choices/Programs Advocacy Music and Learning Autism Essentials Positive Parenting Behavior Management Social Skills Development Developmental Discipline Resources/Special Needs Early Literacy Speech Language Issues DENTISTRY FOR CHILDREN YOUR CHILD’S TEETH ARE TOO PRECIOUS TO WASTE A PROPER DIET, GOOD ORAL HYGIENE AND A BI-ANNUAL CHECK-UP FROM AGE 1 CAN SAVE TEETH AND MONEY Call Reneida E. Reyes, D.D.S., M.P.H. Today at her offi ce for your son or daughter’s appointments One Hanson Place - Suite 706 Brooklyn, NY 11243 EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS (718) 230-0380 Fax (718) 230-0358 AVAILABLE KID’S EAT FREE EVERY NIGHT!

Dentistry for Adults Enjoy an Dinner Entrée or Special get a Free Kid Combo, Pizza, Pasta or Mac & Cheese and Children Every Day after 5:30pm Tracey H. Joseph, D.D.S., PLLC Restaurant & Gentle, Friendly and Nuturing Care for Your Family THE Play Space

• School Forms • White Fillings • Extractions • Sealants SPOT • Flexible Partials • Nightguards 81 Atlantic Ave (@ Hicks) 718-923-9710 Serving Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner on Two Floors • Dentures • Implants Mon-Wed 10am– 6:30pm, Thurs—Sun 10am—8:30pm

• Teeth Whitening (Zoom) 2 Blocks from Bklyn Bridge Park Pier 6 Playground • Special Attention To Nervous And Apprehensive People • 1 Hour Root Canal Treatment FUN EVENTS DAYTIME New Ultramodern Facility Conveniently Located At Singalong w Lloyd Storytime w Emily Dance w Nat Sunday Singalong 1655 Flatbush Avenue • Suite A 104 Tuesdays, 11a Mon/Wed/Fri, 12p Thursdays, 11a 12 Noon, 1st & 3rd Suns

Flat (Philip Howard Apartments) Digital EVENING Screen TV Xrays & 718-377-1319 Intraoral & Patient Camera Beatles RockBand Night Family Disco Party Nintendo Wii Night Headset www.brooklynfamilydds.com 1st Saturdays, 6p 2nd Saturdays, 6p 3rd Saturdays, 6p We SPeak SPaniSH Plus Friday Free Movie Night, & Sunday Bingo Most Major Insurances and Medicaid Accepted Evening Activities are all Free, Child Fee is $2.50/child M-F 10am—5:30 pm FUN All Day Long: Toys, Art, Games, Puppets, Foosball, Computers! Visit www.themoxiespot.com for More info

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 53 Profile Childbirth as performance art An artist’s By Tammy Scileppi ot all art is expressed with creative paint on canvas, or as a 3D N sculpture in an exhibit. In the realm of creative endeavors, quest and there are those who express them- selves through art forms that are wholly alternative, edgy, and unique. a writer’s One such artist expresses herself through performance art, and has commentary recreated such moments as losing her virginity, her grandfather’s fu- neral, and most recently, actually giving birth to her first child in a Brooklyn art gallery. Marni Kotak’s birth-as-art event took place at Bushwick’s Microscope Gallery. The show was an installa- tion with videos and artwork, and it culminated in the birth. Now, how’s Marni Kotak’s “Raising Baby X: The First Year” video still of an on-going video that for true realism? project documenting baby Ajax’s development in January, 2012. Described as a durational perfor- mance, it began Oct. 8 and ended Nov. 7 of last year. Kotak said she own works deal with taboo themes joyed decorating the birthing room spent as much time at the gallery as of sexuality — a tradition that goes in the gallery with her hubby, artist possible during the ninth months, back to 1959, when filmmaker Stan Jason Robert Bell. With her nesting talking to visitors about mother- Brakhage recorded the birth of his instinct in full gear, her creative tal- hood, art, and other issues. Those first child as a work of art. ent quickly took over, and the bare who left their contact information Re-enacting events from her life space was magically transformed were notified when she went into for the public, Kotak has performed into a cheerful, cozy sanctuary re- labor, so they could share in the ar- her own birth, losing her virginity plete with her grandma’s comfy, full- tistic experience. in “a sunny blue Plymouth,” and her size bed, which she and Jason broke Kotak represents a new generation grandfather’s funeral. back in the day; a rocking chair used of artists who believe in the slogan “My performances for over 10 by her own mother, as she rocked of “art for art’s sake,” a bohemian years have dealt with presenting my little Marni to sleep; an inflatable creed in the 19th century raised by everyday life as art. I began doing my birthing tub; and a blue shag rug. Victor Cousin in defiance of those ‘Found Performances’ — my daily They even painted a mural on the who thought that the value of art was activities, life experiences, and per- walls depicting a beach scene by to serve some moral or didactic pur- sonal milestones presented as art — the Atlantic Ocean. The blue color pose. “Art for art’s sake” affirmed that while in graduate school, at Brook- provided a calming effect, reminding art was valuable as art, that artistic lyn College from 2004 to 2006.” the mom-to-be of summers spent at pursuits were their own justification, So when she learned that she was the shore near her home. and that art did not need moral justi- pregnant, it seemed “only natural for And then there were the symbolic fication — and indeed, was allowed to me to consider that it would be a pro- accessories: a doll whose face was a be morally subversive. found everyday life performance,” baby photo of Kotak’s, accent pillows “She’s in the tradition of using your she says. featuring photos of the couple kiss- life as your authentic material and In the weeks preceding the birth ing, Kotak as a baby, and of Kotak shaping and forming it,” says feminist of her son, Marni said she was re- pregnant, laying on the beach. artist Carolee Schneemann, whose ally psyched for the big day and en- “All of the items in the gallery

54 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Photo by JJ Sulin

(Above) Family portrait of Marni Kotak, Jason Robert Bell and baby Ajax, Thanksgiving Day, 2011. (At left) Kotak’s “The Birth of Baby X” installation post-birth in November, 2011.

of raising the child as a work

Photo by Jason Robert Bell of art, but I’m not sure how long the piece will go, as I ulti- (Above) Marni Kotak nursing Ajax in her mately see it as collaboration Microscope Gallery booth at Fountain Art with Ajax. For now, I’m com- Fair Miami, 2011. (At right) The mono- mitting to one year, and will print made from the baby’s placenta. re-evaluate at the end of the year and decide whether or had a significance to me and were not to continue. I’m spending installed to create the ideal space for croscope, a stone’s throw from their some time each day documenting me to give birth in,” she said. “I spent Bushwick pad. Kotak said 20 viewers my experiences with Ajax, his de- time at the gallery in the days lead- attended the delivery, seated by the velopment, and our bond as mother ing up to the birth, about two weeks room’s door, or milling about at cer- and child.” after the opening of the show, talking tain times. It’s all about highlighting the with visitors about the ideas behind Kotak’s masterpiece was finally re- “beauty of human life,” she says. the piece, and waiting. So much of vealed: he was an armful, weighing “I’m recording his growth pro- the performance was actually about in at nine pounds, two ounces, and cess, including his milestones, such the waiting and anticipation involved 22 inches long. She calls Ajax a true as lifting his head, smiling, rolling in preparing to give birth.” work of art — as are all babies. But over, cooing. I’m also taking a lot of Mementos celebrating the preg- she doesn’t plan on having any more. footage breastfeeding the baby, in nancy were artistically displayed on “Ajax is a very healthy baby boy. which I attempt to convey the beauty the walls: a shadow box containing He’s already about 16 pounds and in and depth of this experience.” the pregnancy test, a RhoGAM shot the 92nd percentile in height, as of This one year show will also be [an injection to prevent hemolytic worked with a midwife and doula,” his three-month check-up. He seems held at Microscope Gallery. The disease of the newborn, also known Kotak says. “While at the gallery, I very happy for the most part,” said work is still in progress, so Kotak is as HDN], and Kotak’s silver baby also addressed last-minute details to the proud mother. not sure yet how the space will be spoon. Ajax’s first sonogram image make the space even more ideal as a Of course, Kotak and Bell didn’t installed. was meaningfully encased in a wood- birthing room, such as, installing a stop their art there. The couple kept “Come to the show in October crafted display, and on another wall, shower, and stocking my kitchenette Ajax’s placenta in a freezer for a and see!” by the bed, a shelf held two tower- with foods and drinks.” while, then Bell made a print from “Raising Baby X” at Microscope Gal- ing trophies — one for Ajax and one Then came Oct. 25, 2011: show it and framed it. It was on view in lery [4 Charles Pl. at Myrtle Avenue and for his mama. It seemed like a room time! When Kotak went into labor, the gallery and at Fountain Art Fair Bushwick Avenue in Bushwick, (347) filled with happy, creative energy. she quickly waddled over — with Miami, 2011. 925-1433] October 2012. www.micro- “I took childbirth classes and Bell, her “co-creator,” in tow — to Mi- “I’m working now on the first year scopegallery.com.

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 55 Parenting My teen’s aversion to school photo day

was going through pictures of his Sasquatchian paw, and the rest puter, a notebook, a day-timer, and my son the other day, meaning are tiny portraits dominated by the a watch, I never know it’s Picture I I was thumb scrolling on my inside of his mouth, the cover of a Day until Sasquatch is getting out of Death by cellphone through a nearly infinite book, or his shirt pulled over his the car, whereupon he will lean in, collection of perfect portraits of his nose. And in a single unadulterated as if to say something sweet, as if ChilDren hands, and remembered that I don’t head shot, it is painfully obvious to offer me a bon mott, a fist bump Chris GarlinGton have one good photo of him. he’s farting. — anything — but merely alerts me He hates getting his picture taken. My only hope has been Picture to the fact that he is not adequately I have exactly seven blurry snap- Day. And as I am a diligently or- dressed for the occasion. shots of his face: in one, his face is ganized parent with a Smart- Imagine: framed in the window half obscured by phone, a com- with the sun behind him like a halo, his “Legalize It” T-shirt hanging in a stained, pouchy slouch; a tiny smear of grape jelly trailing off toward his ear; his unruly Aboriginal dome wrapped in greasy fur, as if his head is being raped by a grizzly — and he says: “Oh yeah, it’s Picture Day.” Merde! Fantastic. I will add this new abomination to the growing ag- gregation of legendary school por- traits wherein Junior appears… • To have been dragged back- wards through a bush • U n d e r anesthesia • Infused with pure, unadulterated evil • Over-caffeinated I could scrapbook a three-inch brick of Disney pictures of our fam- ily smiling with the radiant intensity of an Osmond wedding, and in each of them, there will be a perfect pic- ture of Connor’s hand where his head should be. He has perfected the spontaneous photo bomb. My only clear picture of his countenance shows him slumped face first into the couch, his nose bent sideways in a puddle of drool (I assume), with the dog Frenching his ear. I can only hope, as he enters high school, that he will start combing his hair and washing his face on the morning of Picture Day after discov- ering that girls might want a pic- ture of his actual face. I mean, he’s a good-looking kid. I think. I don’t know; all I see is hair. Until that time, like every other parent of a teen boy, I lurk in the liv- ing room until I hear snoring, tiptoe into his room, peel back his hideous mop, gaze into his face and think to myself: yes, that’s him, thank God.

56 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 5):  1130 Avenue Z • 718-891-8500 www.partygym.com Sponsor of the 2011-2012 Kids Series

Specializing Now in Private Parties Offering “Ephemeral masterpieces out of thin soap” Additional Adult -Boston Globe For Over 15 Years! Catering Options Book Your Party Now! )8: We offer complete party packages. Recently renovated,  with a new toddler area, rock climbing wall and outside adult seating area. Sponsor of the 2011-2012 Kids Series Open Play Time $7 per child Mondays and Thursdays 11 am to 3 pm Tuesdays 4 pm to 7 pm $ Tickets: $14 • Multi-Show: $11 25 OFF ANY PARTY 718.760.0064 - Not to be combined w/any other offer - Does not apply to parties already booked 14 UNITED NATIONS AVENUE SOUTH Expires 3/31/12 FLUSHING MEADOWS CORONA PARK QUEENSTHEATRE.ORG

COMING IN THE NEXT ISSUE Parties & Celebrations

* Birthdays * Bar / Bat Mitzvahs * Sweet 16’s * * Graduations * Baby Showers * * Christenings * Communions / Confi rmations *

Advertise Your Business * Call 718.260.4554 www.NYParenting.com

BROOKLYN QUEENS STATEN ISLAND BRONX/RIVERDALE Family Family Family Family

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 57 Couples Resolving anger

along with clients, friends the emotionality in order to relax tion in the other that seems ready and colleagues, have been and talk in a productive way. to explode. When couples are stuck I, pondering about how to deal One reason that anger escalates, in this dynamic — upset, and speak- with those times when I am angry instead of petering out on its own, ing or acting angrily, or withdrawing with my partner and can’t figure out has to do with the way in which into a self-protective state — it’s a how to get over it. Although each each person typically deals with her truism that there are no improve- of us tries to contain her anger to emotions — a behavioral style that ments or resolutions in sight. No Our minimize conflict, the feelings are tends to be the opposite of her part- sense talking at these times, it’ll still there, and are causing tension ner’s. When it comes to expressing just make things worse. So, since we relatiOnships in the relationship and deeply af- emotion, Imago Couples Therapy all find ourselves in this state from Joan EmErson, PhD fecting her inner peace. Exploring calls one person the “maximizer,” time to time, what are we supposed this quandary are couples who know the one who typically wants to talk to do next? that they love each other and want things through until they get figured If you had the chance to say what to make things better. They know out, and the other the “minimizer,” you want, you would say that it that whatever is contributing to the the one who gets overwhelmed by would be great to get past the anger anger needs airing and correcting, all the emotional talking and needs and be close again. So, the struggle but can’t figure out how to get past time to calm down, not wanting to seems to be to look within yourself deal with it at the moment. and decide that you’re going to be The maximizer’s style can be felt the one who is strong and coura- as overly emotional, controlling, and geous enough to do the hard and unsatisfiable; the minimizer’s style risky work of letting go of your can be felt as not caring enough to anger to move on to a more promis- want to work on the relationship. ing place. Letting go of anger is an When anger is present, maximizers act of will: you just decide you’re are emotionally intent on making going to do it, and stick with the sure their partners see their side, hard work of making it happen. emotions escalate, and they just get What helps with this noble act more and more furious when their is reassuring yourself that you’re partners don’t listen. Minimizers, not just going to let go of the anger, on the other hand, get angry and shut your mouth, and go along with overwhelmed by the constant bar- whatever has been bothering you. rage, try to escape to seek safety, Instead, decide that you’re still further alienate their partners, and going to get your needs met, but in then feel even more frustrated and a way that works. unsafe. Step one is to reassure your part- No matter who is the maximizer ner that you’re back, and that you’re and who is the minimizer, one part- sorry that things got out of control. ner’s way of handling emotional In addition, express the commit- conflict can feel like an aggressive ment to work on accommodating or hostile act to the other, adding to your partner’s personality style so the anger that is already there. What you can find a more productive way we forget at these times is that our of resolving things. If you say this partners’ behaviors, as well as our in a gentle way, while looking into own, are part of a natural tempera- your partner’s eyes — and perhaps ment and coping style that each of reaching out with a gentle touch — us was probably born with. As a you’re on your way toward peace. matter of fact, these complemen- Step two is agreeing on a good tary personality styles no doubt at- time to have a calm talk about what tracted us to our partners, and we upset you and how you can handle do enjoy them when things go well. things better in the future. When you The other side of these complemen- get to this talk, the listener should tary styles is that, at times, the dif- just listen and thank the speaker for ferences can drive us crazy. shedding light on what was so upset- So, in a couple where anger is ting. The best that can come out of a taking over, the maximizer is upset talk like this is an agreement, and a that her partner is withdrawing and reliable follow-through, making sure keeping quiet, while the minimizer that regular talks are scheduled to is overwhelmed, afraid to approach, head off the upsets before they be- and guarding against all this emo- come unmanageable anger.

58 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 FELD ENTERTAINMENT Job No.: BL195740 Engagement City: NEWARK/E. RUTHERFORD/UNIONDALE Ad Size: 3.875” X 10” Media: TRADE AD Section: ENTERTAINMENT Insertion Date(s):

Book and Lyrics by SANDY RUSTIN Music and Lyrics by DAN LIPTON & DAVID ROSSMER ©2011 Feld Entertainment “P IS FOR PERFECT!” PETER FILICHIA, THE STAR-LEDGER Westside Theatre 407 W. 43rd St. Telecharge.com or 212.239.6200 Childcare available select perfs. Visit RatedPTheMusical.com MICHA HAMILTON PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY MICHA HAMILTON

THE RHYTHM OF NEW YORK “MAGICAL” “WONDROUS” “AMAZING” And that’s just the ticket price.

KIDS’ TICKETS $12 Kids ages 2-12. Limit four (4) kids’ tickets with purchase of one full-priced adult ticket. Valid on select performances only. See Ticketmaster.com for details. Excludes VIP, VIP Gold and Circus CelebritySM seats. No double discounts. Additional fees may apply. MAR. MAR. MAR. 1 - 4 7 - 18 21 - 26

For full show schedules and to buy tickets go to Ringling.com, Retail Locations, Arena Box Offices or call 1-800-745-3000

Regular Ticket Prices: $20 • $30 • $50 VIP • $70 VIP Gold • $150 Circus Celebrity Additional fees may apply.

Come one hour early to meet our animals and performers at the All Access Pre-show – FREE with your ticket! 195740

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 59 HealtHy eating Mom’s a dietician: Blessing or curse? magine growing up with a nu- out thinking about it. Picking nutri- meats than any other guy I knew. trition expert as your mother. tious food, whether I’m at the gro- More than once, I remember being I The majority of your meals are cery store with my roommates or asked something like: ‘Wait, you had Good sense nutritious, with a running commen- going out to eat with a friend, is now to eat an apple and broccoli?’ ” tary about how different foods affect second nature,” stated a 23-year-old More than one child recommends eatinG your body. You learn how to read daughter. “Seeing people struggle — following mom’s advice. Christine M. PaluMbo, rD food labels at a young age. So-called trying to determine what is healthy “Regardless of occupation status, junk food and grabbing dinners from a or not — has made me grateful that a mother always knows best. So if drive-through window are uncommon my mother instilled healthy habits in your mom is an RD, then you’d re- treats. But most importantly, you have me at a very early age.” ally better listen closely,” advises a a trusted role model to whom you can The negatives: what kids eat can 19-year-old son. turn to with nutrition questions. affect how their friends act toward An eighth-grade girl agreed. In honor of National Nutrition them. “My suggestion is to just go along Month, I polled the children, ages One girl said she “didn’t have any with what they have to say about 10 to 30, of five registered dietitians ‘good’ food to trade at the lunch food and nutrition, because they are to get a sense of what it is (or was) table in grade school.” always right.” like growing up in such a nutrition- And a young man recalls, “Try All moms are prime influences. As conscious atmosphere. being a 10-year-old boy telling your you can see, the apple doesn’t fall far As a whole, the sons and daugh- friends that your mother wants to from the tree when it comes to mak- ters were rather nonchalant about hand out raisins for Halloween. See ing smart eating choices. Yet, all adult their mothers. how quickly your friends give you role models have a major impact on “In the back of my mind, I always the look of death.” their young offspring. Research sug- knew that my mother was a dietitian, Kids say the darndest things. A gests mothers who purchase nourish- but I never thought twice about it. I 10-year-old son has already learned ing foods and who don’t keep many didn’t realize we ate healthier than a lot about eating, although he’s not treats at home rear children who are most people until I ate at my friends’ completely happy about it. more likely to express healthy eating- houses,” recalls a 23-year-old son. “My house doesn’t have as much related attitudes. Another dietitian’s daughter, also junk food compared to my friends. I A new college graduate has the 23, recalled learning moderation. don’t always get to eat what I want.” following sage advice applicable for “There was always candy around Yet, he reports, “I feel more healthy. all children. the house in bowls, and we had ‘junk I have learned how to be smarter “I would try to learn as much food’ in the pantry, but we were about what I eat.” as possible about cooking healthy never allowed to ‘pig-out’ on junk One adult son mentioned what his things. Take advantage of the time food.” friends thought of his eating habits. that you have at home for your mom The positives: on the whole, se- “It definitely made things a little dif- to cook good, healthy things for you, lecting balanced meals with plenty ferent food-wise, with respect to what because it isn’t always easy to do on of fruits and vegetables was second my friends would talk about eating. your own.” nature. My stories involved more references Those quoted are the children of “I learned how to eat healthy with- to vegetables, fruits, and non-fried the following registered dietitians: Karen Ferrantella, Dietetic Practice Group Manager, Academy of Nutrition and Di- Wild Blueberry and DIRECTIONS: Place all ingredients in etetics; Kerry Hollar, Naperville, Ill; Julie Honey Smoothie blender and mix until creamy. if too Moreschi, Dietetic Internship Director, thick, add small amounts of juice or Benedictine University, Lisle, Ill; Lois Makes approximately three (12 milk until desired consistency. ounce) servings Moss-Barnwell, President, Diet Rx, Ltd; tip: Vary smoothie ingredients for Toby Smithson, spokesperson for the INGREDIENTS: added protein and vitamins. try Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and 1 cup frozen wild blueberries silken firm tofu, protein powder, a founder of DiabetesEveryDay.com. 1 ripe banana, peeled and cut into sprinkle of wheat germ or flax seed, The three grown children of Christine pieces or a variety of 100-percent fruit juices. Palumbo, RD, are nutrition whizzes, find 1 cup vanilla yogurt NUTRITION FACTS: 162 calories, grocery shopping and cooking fun, and 1 tablespoon honey (more if desired) 1g fat, 47mg sodium, 36g carbohy- simply love everything “food.” Follow 1/2 cup orange juice drates, 3g fiber, 4g protein. her on Facebook at Christine Palumbo Mint leaves for garnish Recipe from WildBlueberries.com. Nutrition, or on Twitter at @PalumboRD. Her website is ChristinePalumbo.com.

60 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 aroundAround town town Hindi club ignites ‘Festival of Lights’ At this Queens High School, culture takes the stage

By Sherlana rooplal coordinating the annual show since 2008. “In my Hindi language class, I tudents at John Adams High not only have Indian and Asian stu- School in Ozone Park held dents, but Guyanese, Spanish and S their annual Diwali Show on African-American students, as well. Dec. 2, treating fellow students, fam- For me, as the director of the Hindi ily members, and alumni to a night Club, this year’s show was very sat- filled with truly authentic aspects of isfying. The students gave excellent Indian culture — dancing, singing, performances.” smiling, and simply having a good Within the Hindu religion, Di- time. wali, also known as the “Festival of The stage of the Queens school’s Lights,” is celebrated by paying re- auditorium sparkled with colorful spect, honor and homage to Mother

lights as students from Vejay Ver- Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and Photos by Kristina Joseph ma’s Hindi Club observed the Hindu prosperity, by lighting “diyas,” or Girls in Ms. Verma’s Hindi Club dressed holiday by performing traditional In- lamps. The purpose is to attain her in beautiful Indian sarees in celebration dian dances for the audience of 50. blessings and to signify victory over of Diwali during the cultural event at The female dancers wore an array evil. John Adam’s High School in Queens. of colorful sarees (a length of fab- “I was nervous, because I didn’t ric elaborately draped around the know exactly how things would go. body), and performed to music spun But in the end, it was a memorable Marguerite Lamothe. “One could see by a DJ. night,” said 12th grade student Tif- that the students put a lot of effort Thanks to the students’ energy fany Naidu, a first-year participant into it. Although the audience was and commitment — and the audi- in the show. “Everyone had fun, and small, the energy of the performers ence’s continuous cheering and clap- that’s really what matters.” was huge, and the audience enjoyed ping — the event soon became a Members of the audience couldn’t the show.” celebration. agree more. Sherlana Rooplal is a senior at John “The show went very well this “The Diwali festival was quite Adams High School, where she is also a year,” said Verma, who has been entertaining,” said English teacher reporter for its newspaper, the Campus.

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 61 TECHNOLOGY Creative kids’ apps e live in the Golden Age of • Doodle with light. Glow Doodle apps. For parents, this can transforms ordinary drawings into W be confusing. Kids love spectacular neon creations at the apps, but many seem like little more press of a “Glow button.” (Ages 3 to than high-tech pacifiers that amuse 8, 99 cents, iPhone or iPad) without stimulating. • Conquer the keyboard. Jellybean To find the exceptions, parents Tunes, an app created by parents of have to evaluate apps as they do a young child, introduces musical GROWING UP other playthings. Is the app devel- basics with big, colorful notes. Kids opmentally appropriate? Does it pro- can play the songs in the program ONLINE mote active engagement or passive or make up their own compositions. CAROLYN JABS viewing? Does your child get excited (Ages 3 to 8, $3.99, iPad, www.jelly- enough to want to tell you about make it easy for a child to arrange the beantunes.com) what she is doing? photos on a phone and then add nar- • Tell a tale. Story Patch unleashes Apps that encourage creativity are ration. Use it to make scrapbooks and imagination by giving children more usually winners. These mini-programs picture books or, for that matter, flash than 800 images to be incorporated encourage your child to explore, think cards and slide shows. (For ages 6 to into their stories. Kids can start with and make things she can share with 10, $2.99, iPhone, Tapikeo.com) prompts — a trip to the zoo, a birth- other people. Obviously, you’ll want • Fool with photos. ColorSplash day party — but the tools also make to match the app with your child’s adds color to photographs when you it easy for them to take dictation from aptitudes and interests, but here are brush the screen with your fingers. their own imaginations. (Ages 4 to 10, 8 promising possibilities. These pro- (Ages 2 to 8, $1.99, iPhone and iPad, $2.99, iPad, www.storypatch.com) grams are available through the Apple pocketpixels.com) • Toon up. Toontastic is a clever iTunes store, though, in many cases, • Sketch critters. iLuv Drawing An- animation program developed with comparable products are available imals (pictured) provides step-by- help from educators at Stanford. from other platforms. For more sug- step instructions for sketching recog- Kids choose a setting and populate gestions about apps that are worthy nizable animals. Forty lessons teach it with characters that actually move of a child’s time, consult the websites kids to draw everything from cats the way the child wants them to in the box. and dogs to penguins and pandas. move. A microphone allows kids to • Pull together a picture book. (Ages 4 to 10, $2.99, iPad, www.learn- add narration. (Ages 4 to 10, free, Tapikeo provides simple grids that withfunapps.com) iPad, Launchpadtoys.com) • Draw what you like. The Draw- ing Pad app is as open-ended as a sketchbook. In the “desk drawer” Websites that review apps for kids at the bottom of the screen, kids With so many apps and so little time, how do parents make good choices on behalf of their kids? One way is have access to a wide variety of “art to visit these websites. Most are run by parents who got frustrated looking for quality apps for their own kids. supplies” including pencils, markers, Some take reviews from developers but all give you a good idea of what you’ll get before you download. paintbrushes, and stickers. What they make from all of these tools is Site: childrenstech Who runs site? Parents Grouped by age? Yes Parent comments? Yes entirely up to them. (All ages, $3.99, Platform: All and kids Grouped by type? No Comments: Large data- iPad and some Android devices, Accepts ads? No Free downloads? Yes Searchable? No base, but some “reviews” Drawingpadapp.com) Who runs site? Subscription? No Parent comments? Lim- are from developers. Cool as these apps may be, they Professional staff Grouped by age? Yes ited shouldn’t take the place of more tra- Free downloads? No Grouped by type? No Comments: Brief re- Site: smartappsforkids ditional opportunities for creative Subscription? Yes Searchable? No views with longer “best Platform: Apple exploration. Even the most tech- Grouped by age? Yes Parent comments? Yes of” articles. Accepts ads? Yes savvy kids should have easy access Grouped by type? Yes Comments: Lively, color- Who runs site? A dad to fingerpaints and clay, big pads Searchable? By sub- ful site. Some reviews lack Site: lunchboxreviews on a “quest” of blank paper, homemade instru- scription depth and they post vid- Platform: Apple Free downloads? Yes ments, props that make them want Parent comments? Rare eos done by developers. Accepts ads? Yes Subscription? No to star in their own stories, and Comments: Authoritative Who runs site? Reviews Grouped by age? Yes music that makes them want to jump reviews from one of the Site: ikidapps collected from many Grouped by type? Yes up and dance. first publications to re- Platform: All sources Searchable? No Carolyn Jabs, MA, raised three com- view children’s software. Accepts ads? Yes Free downloads? No Parent comments? Yes puter-savvy kids, including one with spe- Who runs site? A techie Subscription? No Comments: Candid re- cial needs. She has been writing Grow- Site: funeducationalapps mom Grouped by age? Yes views by a dad. Offers ing Up Online for 10 years. Visit www. Platform: Apple Free downloads? No Grouped by type? Yes “priority” reviews to de- growing-up-online.com to read other Accepts ads? Yes Subscription? No Searchable? Yes velopers who pay a fee. columns. Copyright, 2012, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

62 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Like Us on “THE COOLEST SHOW EVER!“

MUSIC IS UNIVERSAL to Win tickets or prizes

Visit us at our NYParenting page OVER and register to win 20 MILLION HITS “BLUE MAN GROUP MEETS GLEE!”–VH1 TELECHARGE.COM • 212-239-6200 For groups & birthday parties call 1-866-642-9849 or visit VocaPeopleNYC.com New World Stages, 340 West 50th Street Attention All Writers! We’re looking for personal essays about you, your family and life VOCA_FamilyPublications.4x4.865.4C.indd 1 1/19/12 9:41 PM in your community. Partner with us and share your stories and your memories. Email [email protected] to have your piece included in our magazine and on our website.

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 63 Relationships Intro to mediation n February, I wrote about litiga- tion, describing it as usually the I most expensive, antagonistic, and emotionally difficult process for ending a marriage. I’m devoting this column to introducing another pro- cess to realize a divorce: mediation. Despite the many books written on Divorce & divorce mediation (more than 1,300 on Amazon.com), its growth over re- Separation cent decades, and the literature show- Lee Chabin, esq. ing its benefits and high success rate, this process remains largely unknown or misunderstood by many. What is mediation? Expert practitioners Stephen Er- ickson and Marilyn McKnight Erick- son describe mediation as “a com- munication process by which a hus- band and wife resolve the practical supply information about bank and Why many and emotional issues of divorce or retirement accounts, mortgages, professionals favor separation in a mutual, cooperative leases, etc. — and ensures that in- mediation manner as opposed to an adversar- formation is shared and understood Many judges, lawyers, psycholo- ial, competitive manner. by the parties. gists, and therapists favor media- “The goal is for each of them to Additionally, the mediator helps tion over going to court, because receive the best settlement possible them set out and explore their op- it is faster, less expensive, and less that will satisfy — to the greatest tions, such as: what can you do stressful. extent possible — their respective about the house? A buy-out? A sale? In his recent New York Law Jour- needs and interests, now and in the Rent it? How would each option work nal article “Encourage Divorce Cli- future,” continue the Ericksons in in practice? ents to Mediate,” David Saxe, an as- their book “Family Mediation Case- The mediator and the parties also sociate justice at the Appellate Divi- book: Theory and Process.” “The discuss fairness. What may seem sion, said that the “litigation process goal of mediation is to prevent the fair to one may appear as unfair to often extends into years. It also exac- conflict from becoming destructive.” the other. But by having the parties erbates conflicts instead of resolving express their needs and their rea- them amicably.” how does mediation soning, and helping them to listen to Saxe noted that “legal fees can often work? one another, a mediator can usually be enormous, sometimes well into the Generally, the mediator and cou- guide them through a negotiation so six figures, for the more contentious ple sit together in the same room. that they arrive at a deal that seems cases.” Mediation, on the other hand, The mediator helps the parties fair to both. “is more focused on the needs of the identify and focus on the issues so Parties can consult with a finan- parties,” he says, and “the majority of that discussions can be construc- cial planner, appraiser, parenting the expended time is devoted to ex- tive. For instance, the mediator will specialist, attorney and so on to bet- ploring disputes, proposals, sugges- reframe the question, “Who will get ter understand any questions that tions and possible solutions.” the children?” (an argument begging may require such expertise. Food for thought! for raised voices and extreme posi- Once parties have reached agree- I’ll explore mediation in greater tions) to the question, “What agree- ments, and reality testing indicates depth over the coming months. ments can you reach, so that you can that they are doable (for instance, New York City- and Long Island-based each be the kind of parent you want not only have you both agreed to a divorce mediator and collaborative di- to be in the future, and that will allow buy-out of the house, but a review of vorce lawyer Lee Chabin, Esq, helps cli- the kids to be well taken care of?” the finances shows that the person ents end their relationships respectfully The approach and language in keeping it can truly afford it), the and without going to court. Contact him at mediation are very different than mediator encourages the spouses to [email protected] or (718) 229- those of the courts, where the issues consult with independent attorneys 6149, or visit http://lc-mediate.com/home. are ones of custody and visitation, as for the purpose of reviewing the if children are prisoners — or prop- agreements before signing them. Disclaimer: All material in this column is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Dis- erty that can be owned. If any issues arise, they are cussing your particular case and circumstances with a The mediator addresses the finan- brought back to mediation and re- legal professional before making important decisions is cial matters — having each party solved. strongly encouraged to safeguard your rights.

64 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 RAISE YOUR GRADES Math Tutoring from a NYC Middle School Math Teacher • State Exams • Regents • SAT/PSAT • GED • Specialized HS Prep Experienced, patient tutor has succeeded with students at all levels of ability. Reasonable Rates • Home Lessons Call Ursula 917-558-5172

Park Slope Music Voice / Piano / Music Skills Patient, Experienced Teacher/Performer MED Columbia Univ – Music Ed. PHD Reasonable Rates Negotiated Call or email 718-344-8163 • [email protected]

March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 65 Parenting Would adding a baby be too much?

Dear Sharon, My husband has two children (ages 4 and 6), and I Parents have two children (5 and 7) from previous marriages. There have been hurdles in bringing our two families helPing together. My children live with us full-time, and his children are with us on alternate weekends and some Parents vacations. We have been in some counseling as a fam- Sharon C. PeterS, Ma ily and individually, and it has helped enormously, but the kids are pretty young, and I don’t see major issues at this time. Most of the issues seemed to have been with us, the adults. Now I want to have another child with my husband. He says we have enough is- sues, and that it would cause more problems. Do you think he’s right? What would you advise?

Dear Mom, demanding period of the tween and dren to have time to develop their re- I am glad to hear that you have teen years. lationships and interests away from gotten help and that your family is Unfortunately, financial and emo- home. Large families can also have managing well as you all “blend to- tional support does not usually sig- increased sibling tensions, as differ- gether.” Adding a child to a family of nificantly diminish at the beginning ent sets of “rivalries” can build and any size is an important decision for of college or adult employment. change over time. all moms and dads. Even if parents It can also be important for par- Now that I have stated all of the re- already have a large family, as you ents to be aware of economic and alistic demands of deciding to bring do, it is still useful to review the fun- space considerations before decid- a new baby into the world, I will con- damental practical aspects involved, ing to add a new little one. Families fidently share that as the parent of so that if there is a new addition, he can do well in crowded quarters with many adult children (two step, two does not get lost in the crowd. little money, but it helps to know of birth, and one adopted), I am happy I’ll begin with basics. Before add- possible constraints when making with my life as a mother of a large, ing a child to a family, parents should plans for the future. blended family. I am glad that I have be fairly confident that they will enjoy It is also a good idea for parents gotten to be an active parent for living with and guiding this young to sort through the specific circum- many years, enjoyed living with lots person through all the stages of his stances and needs of their primary of people, and was interested and development. To review, during the relationship. It is usually challenging involved in my family’s complicated first few years there are often sleep- to bring a child into a partnership interpersonal dynamics almost all less nights, disruptions in adults’ that is already strained, as a child of that time. professional life, and complications often increases rather than lessens I have personally known and pro- coming from finding and paying for adult tensions. Children can soak fessionally worked with parents who quality childcare, if needed. up valuable time and energy that is have added children to a blended As the child gets older, it is usu- often needed to sort through per- family, and it has gone well. I have ally helpful for parents to locate and sonal difficulties. also known divorced and remarried interact with good schools and set I generally caution against having parents who have decided not to in- up satisfying activities including play a child to “cement” a marriage. Al- crease the size of their existing fami- dates, sports and recreation time, though it is wonderful to have the ex- lies and have been very happy with birthday parties, and other hobbies perience of raising a child together, their decision. and social interactions. Extensive it does not necessarily strengthen a As I am sure you know, a little time and effort from moms and dads relationship. one comes with a complex array is also often essential during the It is important to remember that of unknown rewards and inevitable children added to a large family still challenges. Deciding to have a child Sharon C. Peters is a mother and director of Parents helping Parents, need a great deal of parental atten- is an important personal decision 669 President St., Brooklyn (718) 638-9444, www.PhPonline.org. tion. I usually advise against asking that is worth thinking through with If you have a question about a challenge in your life (no issue is too big older siblings to assume parental re- your partner and others you trust. I or too small) e-mail it to Dear Sharon at [email protected]. sponsibilities like babysitting or dis- believe that it is a decision that could cipline, as it is important for all chil- go well either way.

66 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Parenting NEW YORK SPECIAL CHILD

New & Noteworthy Summer/Early Fall 2011 LONG ISLAND SPECIAL CHILD Would adding a NEW YORK FREE

Fall/Winter 2011–2012 SPECIALNEW YORK CHILDFREE Trusted since 2008 Tech-savvy tots www.NYParenting.com It’s no secret that our world is ad- SPECIAL CHILD5 myths vancing — technologically speaking baby be too much? Routineswww.NYParenting.com about — faster than you can say iPad. Celebratingbring fitness That’s why it’s a good idea to benefits & autism get your tot comfortable with Dear Sharon, electronic gadgets and doo- My husband has two children (ages 4 and 6), and I Five dads at a youngParents age. But play- have two children (5 and 7) from previous marriages. Informing & Enriching ing with remote controls and There have been hurdles in bringing our two families Years expensive smartphoneshelPing is not only together. My children live with us full-time, and his in print dangerous for your stuff, it can be children are with us on alternate weekends and some “Special Needs” hazardous for Pyourarents tot, too. Instead, vacations. We have been in some counseling as a fam- ! try thisSharon technology C. trioPeter fromS ,the Ma Dis- fiddlingily and with individually, 21st century and gizmos it has helped enormously, Positive covery Kids store, which includes — withoutbut the thekids risk are of pretty peril young, to your and I don’t see major behavior Families throughout a pretend smartphone, camera and munchkinissues orat yourthis time. indispensable Most of the de- issues seemed to have support remote control, each of which light vices.been For withages us,18 months the adults. and Nowup. I want to have another NYC & Long Island up, play songs, and make a range of Discoverychild with Tech my Set husband. Trio, $19.99. He says To we have enough is- CultivatingOptimistic sounds, so your child can have fun order,sues, visit www.store.discovery.com.and that it would cause more problems. Do you parentingwinning think he’s right? What would you advise? attitudes Heart-felted gift The power of music Songs for sleepingDear Mom, demandingW hen something’speriod of the a s closetween to and your drenmoons, to have the time adorable to develop pachyderms their re- I am glad to hear that you have teenbaby years. as the mobile that hangs above lationshipsare hung from and hand-carved interests away wooden from Spice up your lullaby routine with World,”gotten help with and a world-music that your family twist. is Unfortunately,her crib, you want financial it to and be special. emo- home.hangers. Large Plus, families the sewing can also mistress have For more information about distribution or the new music com- Featuringmanaging instruments well as you all such “blend as the to- tionalThat’s support why the does Rock-a-Bye-Baby-Ele- not usually sig- increasedbehind these sibling mobiles, tensions, Gladys, as differ can- Summer/Early Fall 2011 pilation from Putu- gether.” Adding aHawaiian child to a family ukulele, of nificantlyphant mobile diminish from at etsy the shop, beginning Drops entmatch sets anyof “rivalries” color scheme. can build The bestand LONG ISLAND FREE how to get your free copy, please Fall/Winter 2010/2011 mayo Kids, “Instru- any size is an importantBrazilian decision guitar, for of collegeof Color, or isadult a soft, employment. beautiful option. changepart? Each over mobile time. is individually ap- LONG ISLAND FREE e-mail us at [email protected]. mental Dreamland,” all moms and dads.kora Even and harp, if parents this ItFour can blue, also big-eared be important elephants for made par- provedNow that by herI have grandchildren! stated all of the re- SPECIAL CHILD which hits stores on already have a disc large is family, chock-full as you of entsof to pieces be aware of hand-stitched, of economic and eco- alisticRock-a-Bye-Elephant demands of deciding mobile to bring from SPECIALwww.webfamilyny.com CHILD Feb. 28! This disc is do, it is still usefulsongs to review that will the relax fun- spacefriendly considerations felt are adorned before with decid cyan,- a Dropsnew baby of Color into the etsy world, shop, I $90.will con For- w w w .NYParenting .com designed to delight damental practicalyour aspects child involved, and lull inggreen to add and a new pearl-colored little one. Families buttons. fidentlyinfo, www.etsy.com/shop/dropsof- share that as the parent of 5 myths your tot, while also so that if there heris a tonew sleep addition, — while he canAlong do well with in crowdedlightly stuffed quarters stars with and manycolorshop. adult children (two step, two Routines about Visit us online at broadening her mu- does not get lostintroducing in the crowd. her to little money, but it helps to know of birth, and one adopted), I am happy bring fitness sical horizons with I’ll begin withmusical basics. stylesBefore she’s add- possible constraints when making with my life as a mother of a large, benefits & autism WWW.90ARENTINGCOM instrumental ren- ing a child to a family,never heard parents before. should plans for the future. blended family. I am glad that I have Tips to ,IKEUSONOUR&ACEBOOKPAGE .90ARENTING ditions of classic be fairly confident“Putumayo that they will enjoy Kids It is also a good idea for parents gotten to be an active parent for organize living with and guiding this young to sortMo through to the specificlove circum- bedtime songs like Presents: Instrumental many years, enjoyed living with lots your child ORFOLLOWUSON4WITTER “Brahms’ Lullaby,” “Twinkle, Twinkle person throughDreamland,” all the stages $12. of his To stances“The and Pigeon needs Finds of their A Hotprimary Dog” of people, and was interested and 8 Little Star,” and “What a Wonderful order,development. visit www.putumayokids.com. To review, during the relationship.— a lighthearted It is usually book challenging by author-il- involved in my family’s complicated first few years there are often sleep- to lustrator bring a childMo Willems into a — partnership has finally interpersonal dynamics almost all Take charge less nights, disruptions in adults’ thatbeen is alreadyadapted strained, for DVD asby aScholas- child of that time. Creating an IEP professional life, and complications oftentic increasesStorybook ratherTreasures. than Here, lessens the I have personally known and pro- coming from finding and paying for adultstory tensions. of the salivating Children pigeon can soak who fessionally worked with parents who ‘House’ of imaginationquality childcare, if needed. up wantsvaluable to indulgetime and in hisenergy newly that found is have added children to a blended The latest book from As thecame child a getsroller older, rink; an it isempty usu- oftenstreet needed food but to sortis frustrated through by per an- family, and it has gone well. I have To advertise your business and or services beloved children’s au- ally helpfulswimming for parents pool to becamelocate and a sonalequally difficulties. hungry duckling, is brought also known divorced and remarried Cultivating School blues thor and illustrator Ed interact withplace good for schoolsriding scooters and set Ito generally life through caution wonderful against having anima- parents who have decided not to in- winning Overcoming anxiety CONTACTUSAT  OR Young, “The House That up satisfyingand activities bikes.” Theincluding stunning play a childtion and to “cement” is set to lively a marriage. music. AlThe- crease the size of their existing fami- attitudes E MAILUSATFAMILY CNGLOCALCOM Baba Built” (Little, Brown dates, sportsillustrations and recreation make time, this thoughpigeon it is discovers wonderful that to have its the far ex bet-- lies and have been very happy with Books for Young Readers) birthday parties,story — and about other war, hobbies but perienceter to share of raising his delicious a child together, treasure, their decision. whisks children away to and socialalso interactions. about childhood Extensive and it doesand thenot ticklenecessarily fight that strengthen ensues be- a As I am sure you know, a little Shanghai. While World time and effortcreativity from moms — accessible and dads relationship.tween the birds will leave a grin on onewho comes want to with know a more complex about array the War II was raging outside is also oftenfor kids essential of all duringages. (And the Ityour is importantchild’s face, to too. remember In addition that to ofkid-lit unknown superstar, rewards the and DVD’s inevitable bonus the walls of the author’s recommended for chil- children“The Pigeon,” added to which a large is narratedfamily still by challenges.features include Deciding “Getting to have to a Know child childhood Sharon home, C. Peters inside, is a mother and director of Parentsdren ages helping 4–8.) Parents, needWillems a great and deal his oftalented parental daughter atten- isMo an Willems,” important an interview personal with decision the Family Publications New York/CNG he was669 Presidentbusy using St., his Brooklyn imagination (718) to 638-9444, “The www.P Househ Ponline.org.That Baba Built: An Art- tion.Trixie, I usually the hour-long advise against DVD askingalso in- thatcreative is worth genius, thinking and more. through with -ETRO4ECH#ENTER.ORTH TH&Ls"ROOKLYN .9 turn hisIf you surroundings have a question into about the stuff a challenge ist’s Childhood in your life in (no China” issue by is Edtoo Young, big oldercludes siblings “Knuffle to assume Bunny parental Too: A Case re- your“The partner Pigeon and Finds others a Hot you Dog trust. … And I   sFAMILY CNGLOCALCOM magicalor too realism small) e-mail is made it to of: Dear “a rock-Sharon at$17.99. [email protected]. For info, visit www.edyoungart. sponsibilitiesof Mistaken like Identity” babysitting and or “Naked dis- believeMore Storiesthat it is by a decision Mo Willems” that could DVD, ing chair became a horse; a roof be- com. cipline,Mole asRat it Getsis important Dressed.” for For all thosechil- go$14.95. well eitherFor info, way. visit www.amazon.com.

February 2012March • BRONX/RIVERDALE 2012 • BROOKLYN FamiFAmILlyy 6735 Going Places

Long-running Babies and books: Bushwick Public Submit a listing Library, 340 Bushwick Ave. at Seigel Going Places is dedicated to Street; (718) 602-1348; www.brooklyn- bringing our readers the most publicllibrary. org; Wednesdays, 11 am, comprehensive events calendar Now – Wed, March 28. in your area. But to do so, we need your help! Infants to 18 months old hear stories All you have to do is send and listen to songs. your listing request to calendar@ Toddler time: Gravesend Public Li- cnglocal.com — and we’ll take brary, 303 Ave. X between West First care of the rest. Please e-mail and West Second streets; (718) 382- requests more than three weeks 5792; www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; prior to the event to ensure we Wednesdays, 11 am, Free. have enough time to get it in. For children birth to five years. And best of all, it’s FREE! Story time: The Moxie Spot, 81 At- lantic Ave., between Hicks Street; (718) Craft day: Charles A. Dana Discovery 923-9710; themoxiespot.com; Mon- Center, Central Park; (212) 860-1370; days, Wednesdays and Fridays, Noon, www.nycgovparks.org; Fridays, 3–4:30 $2.50. pm, Now – Fri, March 30; Free. Come hear a few stories with a simple Create a different nature inspired mas- craft to go with it. terpiece every week. Families only, no groups. Winter fun: Lefferts Historic Home- stead, 452 Flatbush Ave. between Em- Wild Ocean: New York Hall of Sci- pire Boulevard and Eastern Parkway; ence, 47-01 111th St., at Avenue of Sci- (718) 789-2822; www.prospectpark. ence; (718) 699-0005 X353; www.ny- org; Daily, 1–3 pm, Now – Sun, Feb. 26; science.org; Fridays, 3:30 pm, Saturdays Free. and Sundays, 1:30 and 3:30 pm, Now – Enjoy some indoor fun and learn how Sat, March 31; $6, ($5 children, students to play Nine-Man Morris, then make and seniors, plus museum admission). your own board to take home. Science themed 3-D show about the ocean and ecosystem. The movie is ap- Writing workshop: Coney Is- proximately 30 minutes long and is suit- land Public Library, 1901 Mermaid able for children 6 years and older. Ave. at West 19th Street; (718) 265- 3220; www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Reading is Fun: Sunset Park Public Wednesdays, 5 pm, Now – Wed, April Library, 5108 Fourth Ave. at 51st Street; 25; Free. (718) 965-6533; www.brooklynpublicli- Teens get helpful hints on their short brary.org; Fridays, 3:30 pm, Free. stories, essays and poetry. Teens and tweens enjoy books, games and music. Dance-around: The Moxie Spot, 81 Atlantic Ave., between Hicks Street; Teen time: Greenpoint Public Library, (718) 923-9710; themoxiespot.com; 107 Norman Ave. at Leonard Street; Thursdays, 11, $2.50. Laughs times three (718) 349-8504; www.brooklynpublicli- For children. brary.org; Fridays, 4 pm, Free. hat happens to a super- The interactive play, with amaz- Get together with friends and read Little Learners club: St. Anselm’s hero on the first day ing paper sets and costumes, is books, play games and listen to music. Church, 365 83rd St. between Third of school? You’ll laugh just perfect for children 3 to 9 years and Fourth avenues; (718) 745-7643; W “Little Miss Muffet’s Monster yourself silly finding out when the old, who will dance in the aisles Tuesdays, 9:30 –10:45 am, Thursdays, Sitting Service”: The Swedish Cot- 9:30–10:45 am, $125 per month. Paper Bag Players come to town and stretch their imagination. It’s tage Marionette Theatre, West Dr. at Story-time, playtime and arts and on March 25 with “Laugh, Laugh, sure to inspire them to start their 79th Street Transverse; (212) 988-9093; crafts for children 2 years old and their Laugh.” own paper bag adventures. cityparksfoundation.org/swedishcot- moms/caregivers. Their’s is a non-stop-funny mu- “Laugh, Laugh, Laugh” at Kings- tage.html; Tuesdays – Fridays, 10:30 am sical following the adventures of borough Community College [2001 and noon, Saturdays and Sundays, 1 Movie night: The Moxie Spot, 81 At- pm, Now – Sun, April 8; $8 ($5 children Amazing Amy, just an ordinary Oriental Blvd. at Decatur Avenue, lantic Ave., between Hicks Street; (718) under 12). kid that happens to be a super- (718) 368-5000] on March 25 at 3 923-9710; themoxiespot.com; Fridays, Based on the nursery rhyme, “Little 6:15, Free! hero and just happens to be going pm; tickets are $12. For more, visit Miss Muffet”, this version tells the story Shorts and a full length family appro- to school. www.kings­borough.edu. of Molly Muffet, the descendent of the priate movie. original Miss Muffet. Run time is approx- 68 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Going Places imately 50 minutes and is suitable for Thursdays, 4 pm, Tues, March 6 – Thurs, children 3-9. March 29; Free. Tweens and teens play games and Arts and recreation: Prospect Park make friends. Audubon Center, Enter park at Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue; (718) 287- “The Andersonville Trial”: Third 3400; www.prospectpark.org/audubon; County Courthouse, 441 Clark e Ave. Saturdays and Sundays, 1–3 pm, Now – (718) 390-6616; Thursday, March 15, 8 Sun, April 29; Free. pm; Saturday, March 17, 8 pm; Sunday, Craft activities and fun nature games. March 18, 8 pm; Thursday, March 22, 8 pm; Friday, March 23, 8 pm; Saturday, Handiwork workshop: Lefferts March 24, 8 pm; Sunday, March 25, 8 Historic Homestead, 452 Flatbush Ave. pm; $18 ($15 seniors and students with between Empire Boulevard and East- valid ID). ern Parkway; (718) 789-2822; www. prospectpark.org; Saturdays and Sun- Presented by the SI Shakespearean days, 2:30–3:30 pm, Now – Sat, March Theater, this re-enactment is of the in- 31; Free. famous military trial of Henry Wirz, the commander of the Confederate prison in Children play games from 200 years Andersonville. ago. “The Amazing Max and the Box Thurs, March 1 of Interesting Things”: The MMAC Theater, 248 W. 60th St. between Am- Tales for Tots: Brooklyn Children’s sterdam and West End avenues; (212) Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. 239-6200; www.telecharge.com; Sat- Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www. urdays, 4:30 pm, $29.50 ($49.50 VIP brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am and 2:30 seating). Dance’s next generation pm; Free with museum admission. Magic show. ome and meet those ers and starring young dancers. Children 5 and younger travel to far- dancing feet: Kids Cafe Performances are from 3 to 5 pm away places by listening to stories from Family disco night: The Moxie Spot, around the world. 81 Atlantic Ave., between Hicks Street; C is coming to the Kumble each day. For a complete list of (718) 923-9710; themoxiespot.com; Sat- Theater on March 3 and 4. colleges and organizations, visit RIF: DeKalb Public Library, 790 Bush- urdays, 6 pm, Free! This year’s festival, “Kids Cafe www.dancewave.org/kidscafe. wick Ave. at DeKalb Avenue; (718) 455- Eat, drin, and dance! Goes to College,” presented by php. 3898; www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; 3 pm; Free. Bingo night: The Moxie Spot, 81 At- DanceWave, features dancers “Kids Cafe Goes to College” at Teens sign up with the librarian and lantic Ave., between Hicks Street; (718) from its pre-professional compa- Kumble Theater at Long Island Uni- earn free books. 923-9710; themoxiespot.com; Sundays, nies plus members from nation- versity [DeKalb and Flatbush av- 6, Now – Tues, May 15; Free. wide college dance programs and enues in Downtown, (718) 488-1624] Game day: Clarendon Public Library, Prizes and fun for the whole family. young dancers from across New March 3 and 4 at 3 pm; tickets are 2035 Nostrand Ave. between Farragut and Glenwood roads; (718) 421-1159; Sunday singalong: The Moxie Spot, York City. $20, $15 for students with ID, and $12 The annual event is made for for children under 12. For info, visit www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; 3:30 81 Atlantic Ave., between Hicks Street; pm; Free. (718) 923-9710; themoxiespot.com; young dancers, by young danc- www.kumblethe​ater.org. Teens play Wii. Sundays, 12:15 pm, Free. Come sing, clap, dance or just watch. 11:00, $2.50. Avenue and Leonard Street; (718) 486- Fri, March 2 Chess club: Call for location; (917) 3365; www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; 957-1714; [email protected]; Come clap, dance, sing or just watch! Blooming Babies: Brooklyn Chil- Tuesdays, 4 pm, Free. Sundays, 4 pm, $100 (for whole six “The African Drum”: The Bedford dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at Infants to five years old hear stories months). Village School, 50 Jefferson Ave. be- St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; and listen to songs. Club forming for children 6 to 10 to tween Bedford and Franklin avenues; www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am; Free meet and play; A coach will be on hand (212) 724-0677; www.shadowboxthe- Bereavement support group: with museum admission. to help students hone their game skills. atre.org; Tuesday, Feb. 28, 10 am; St. Joseph’s High School for Girls, 80 For children 18 months to 2 and one- Admission fee provides for the coach, Wednesday, Feb. 29, 10 am; Thursday, Willoughby St. at Bridge Street; (646) half years. supplies and hopefully tournament costs. March 1, 10 am; Friday, March 2, 10:30 739-1005; kfinneran@calvaryhospital. Reading is fun: Gerritsen Beach Pub- Sponsored by Town Square. am; Saturday, March 3, 11 am; Tuesday, org; https://www.calvaryhospital.org; lic Library, 2808 Gerritsen Ave. between Arts and crafts: Brower Park Library, March 6, 10:30 am; Wednesday, March Tuesdays, 4:30–6 pm, Free. Bartlett Place and Gotham Avenue; 725 St. Marks Ave. at Nostrand Avenue; 7, 10:30 am; Thursday, March 8, 10:30 For children 6-12 years old who are (718) 368-1435; www.brooklynpublicli- (718) 773-7208; www.brooklynpubli- am; $10. grieving the death of a loved one. Pre- brary.org; 2 pm; Free. clibrary.org; Mondays, 3:30 pm, Now – Children in pre-K to fifth grade will registration required. For tweens and teens - earn free enjoy this shadow puppet show of Ki- books. Mon, March 26; Free. Arts and crafts: Crown Heights Pub- jana and her animal friends and listen Children 4-12 create a project using a lic Library, 560 New York Ave. between to the African folk tale, “How the Turtle Alphabet fun: Brooklyn Children’s variety of art supplies. Maple Street and Lincoln Road; (718) Got Its Shell.” Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Teen time: Ulmer Park Public Library, 773-1180; www.brooklynpubliclibrary. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www. 2602 Bath Ave. at 26th Avenue; (718) Reading RIF: Ft. Hamilton Public Li- org; Tuesdays, 4 pm, Wednesdays, 3:30 brooklynkids.org; 2:30–3:30 pm; Free 265-3443; www.brooklynpubliclibrary. brary, 9424 Fourth Ave. at 94th Street; pm, Tues, March 6 – Wed, March 28; with museum admission. org; Mondays, 4 pm, Free. (718) 748-6919; www.brooklynpublicli- Free. Celebrate literacy in this fun work- Children 13 and up read books, play brary.org; Tuesdays, 2:30 pm, Free. children create a unique project. shop; learn your ABC’s, read Chicka games and listen to music. School age children earn free books Chicka Boom Boom and make a craft to Gaming: Windsor Terrace Public Li- by reading. take home. For children 5 and younger. Singalong: The Moxie Spot, 81 At- brary, 160 E. Fifth St. at Ft.Hamilton lantic Ave., between Hicks Street; (718) Story and play: Leonard Public Li- Parkway; (718) 686-9707; www. Movie day: Brower Park Library, 725 923-9710; themoxiespot.com; Tuesdays, brary, 81 Devoe St. between Manhattan brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Tuesdays and Continued on page 70 March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 69 Going Places

Continued from page 69 Learn what it takes to survive in the St. Marks Ave. at Nostrand Avenue; great outdoors. (718) 773-7208; www.brooklynpublicli- Earthworks: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- brary.org; 4 pm; Free. seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Children friendly flicks. Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www.brook- Spirit of Uganda: Jack H Skirball lynkids.org; 1:30 pm–2:30 pm; Free Center for the Performing Arts, 566 La- with museum admission. Guardia Pl. at Washington Square; (212) Join the gang on the Magic School 352-3101; www.skirballcenter.nyu.edu; Bus and learn what’s it like to go inside 8 pm; $20-$32. a bee hive. Sponsored by National Grid Dance extravaganza, features a cast of Earthworks. performers eight to eighteen years old. Alphabet fun: 2:30–3:30 pm. Brook- Appropriate for children eight and older. lyn Children’s Museum. See Friday, March 2. Sat, March 3 Kids Cafe: 3–5 pm. Kumble Theater Unlock your imagination: Brooklyn at Long Island University. See Saturday, Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. March 3. at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; Puppet show: Gumbo, 493 Atlantic www.brooklynkids.org; 10 am–4 pm; Ave. between Nevins Street and Third Free with museum admission. Avenue; (718) 855-7808; 3:30 and 4:30 From Dr. Seuss to the new Literacy pm; $15 ($5 adults and siblings). Quilt exhibition come to the museum “The (trash) Little Mermaid” pre- and experience the joy of reading. sented by Drama of Works, 30 minutes Grand Opening: Stork, 726 Franklin Dance fever this month long. Space limited reservations required. Ave. between Park and Sterling places; (347) 614-8648; 10 am–6 pm. he stage is alive with dance, across the stage in vibrant cos- Mon, March 5 Come visit the Stork for a change of dance and more dance at tumes celebrating the music and Toddler time: Gerritsen Beach Public pace. The children’s boutique is finally the Brooklyn Center for culture of the West Indies. T Library, 2808 Gerritsen Ave. between opening and the day promises music, the Performing Arts at Brooklyn March goes out like a lion when Bartlett Place and Gotham Avenue; light refreshments, and scrumptious College this month. the Red Star-Red Army Chorus (718) 368-1435; www.brooklynpublicli- cupcakes. Ballet is featured on March 11 and Dance Ensemble performs brary.org; 11 am; Free. Blooming Babies: 11:30 am. Brook- at 2 pm when students and fac- athletic folk dances and sings For children 18 to 36 months and lyn Children’s Museum. See Friday, ulty from the School of American traditional Russian anthems on their parent/caregiver. March 2. Ballet (the academy of New York March 31 at 8 pm. Open mic: Brooklyn Public Library’s Puppet show: Brooklyn Children’s City Ballet) perform excerpts Admission on March 11 is free Central branch, Flatbush Ave. at East- Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. from “Swan Lake,” “Cinderella” and on a first-come, first-served ern Parkway in Grand Army Plaza; Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www. and “Sleeping Beauty.” These basis. Tickets for the National (718) 230-2100; www.brooklynpub- brooklynkids.org; 12:30–1 pm and 2:30 brand-new ballerinas, some as Dance Theatre Company of Ja- liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. –3 pm; Free with museum admission. little as 6 years old, will also dem- maica are $36-$45, and tickets jsp?branchpageid=265; 5 pm; Free. It’s Polly Mae’s birthday and the only onstrate a “class,” with training for the Red Star performance are Teens share their poems, stories and thing she wants is a video game, but exercises and steps. The show is $30-$40. talents. grandma and grandpa have other ideas. recommended for ages 4 and up. Brooklyn Center for the Perform- The show is presented by handmade Tues, March 6 Paper City Puppets, featuring live music The National Dance Theatre ing Arts at Brooklyn College [2900 and original songs. Company of Jamaica celebrates Campus Rd. between Amersfort and Wacky Tuesday: Brooklyn Children’s its 50th anniversary at Brooklyn Kennilworth places, (718) 951-4500]. Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Concert: Brooklyn Public Library’s Center on March 24, at 8 pm, and For more, visit www.brooklyncenter- Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www. Central branch, Flatbush Ave. at East- March 25 at 3 pm. Dancers glide online.org. brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am and 2:30 ern Parkway in Grand Army Plaza; pm; Free with museum admission. (718) 230-2100; www.brooklynpub- Children 5 and younger explore art, liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. science and culture. jsp?branchpageid=265; 1 pm; Free. company. bayy.org; 11 am–2 pm; Free. Just Girls is presented by the Brooklyn Children’s rides, clowns, carnival Babies and books: Brooklyn Public Spirit of Uganda: 8 pm. Jack H Skir- Conservatory of Music, featuring an all- Library’s Brooklyn Heights branch, 280 ball Center for the Performing Arts. See games, arts and crafts, costume contest female band celebrating Women’s His- Cadman Plaza West at Tillary Street; Friday, March 2. and free giveaways with Hamentashen, tory Month. kosher food, music and lots of fun. (212) 677-4650; www.brooklynpub- liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. Alphabet fun: 2:30–3:30 pm. Brook- Sun, March 4 Bonga: Gumbo, 493 Atlantic Ave. be- jsp?branchpageid=117; 1:30 pm; Free. lyn Children’s Museum. See Friday, tween Nevins Street and Third Avenue; Parents/caregivers and babies, new- March 2. Unlock your imagination: Brooklyn (718) 855-7808; 11:30 am–12:15 pm; born to 18 months enjoy songs and play Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. $18 ($5 siblings). time. Registration required. Kids Cafe: Kumble Theater at Long at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; Island University, DeKalb and Flatbush Children make music the Bonga way. www.brooklynkids.org; 10 am–4 pm; Reservations recommended. Tech week: Red Hook Public Library, avenues; (718) 488-1624; www.kumble- Free with museum admission. 7 Wolcott St. between Richards and theater.org; 3–5 pm; $20 ($15 students From Dr. Seuss to the new Literacy Blooming Babies: 11:30 am. Brook- Dwight streets; (718) 935-0203; www. with id; $12 children under 12). Quilt exhibition come to the museum lyn Children’s Museum. See Friday, brooklynpubliclibrary.org; 3:30 pm; Dancewave presents its annual Goes and experience the joy of reading. March 2. Free. to College festival which features per- Teens get their geek on. formances by student choreographers, Purim carnival: Kingsbay YM- Wilderness survival: Salt Marsh Na- national university dance departments YWHA, 3496 Nostrand Ave. at Avenue ture Center, 3302 Avenue U; (718) 421- Pictionary: Coney Island Public Li- and Dancewaves pre-professional dance W; (718) 648-7703; httP;;//www.kings- 2021; 1 pm; Free. brary, 1901 Mermaid Ave. at West 19th 70 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Going Places Street; (718) 265-3220; www.brooklyn- jsp?branchpageid=265; 1 pm; Free. publiclibrary.org; 4 pm; Free. Lori Belilove and the Beliloveables Tweens and teens hone their artistic honor Isadora Duncan with perfor- and charade skills. mances and demonstrations of modern dance. Arts and games: Greenpoint Public Library, 107 Norman Ave. at Leonard Princeton Review: Brooklyn Public Street; (718) 349-8504; www.brooklyn- Library’s Central branch, Flatbush Ave. publiclibrary.org; 4 pm; Free. at Eastern Parkway in Grand Army Children make unique projects, play Plaza; (800) 273-8439; www.brooklyn- games and other activities. publiclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. jsp?branchpageid=265; 1 pm; Free. Garden club: Flatlands Public Library, Teens take practice SAT tests and 2065 Flatbush Ave. at Avenue P; (718) hone up on their skills. Pre-registration 253-4409; www.brooklynpubliclibrary. required. org; 4:30 pm; Free. All children learn about nature ElectriCity Live: New York Transit through gardening, stories and crafts. Museum, 130 Livingston St. at Boerum Place; (718) 694-1600; www.mta.info/ mta/museum; 1:30 pm; Free with mu- Wed, March 7 seum admission. Yoga and storytime: Kensington Children of all ages explore the sci- Public Library, 410 Ditmas Ave. between ence and magic of electricity. E. Fourth and E. Fifth streets; (718) 435- 9431; www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Astronomy night: Salt Marsh Nature 10:15 am; Free. Discovering our parks Center, 3302 Avenue U; (718) 421-2021; 7 pm; Free. For children birth to 5 years old and hase away the win- Every parent knows the dreaded their parent/caregiver. Explore the wonders of the night sky. ter blues and welcome refrain, “I’m bored, there’s nothing Toddler time: Brooklyn Public Li- C spring with fun activities to do.” Here’s the answer: children Sun, March 11 brary’s Brooklyn Heights branch, 280 in Brooklyn’s parks. of all ages play games and experi- Women’s History: 10 am–4 pm. Cadman Plaza West at Tillary Street; Families learn all about wilder- ence common tasks of 200 years (212) 677-4650; www.brooklynpub- Brooklyn Children’s Museum. See Satur- liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. ness survival at the Salt Marsh ago at the Lefferts Historic Home- day, March 10. jsp?branchpageid=117; 10:45 am; Free. Nature Center on March 4, then stead every weekend through Infant and child CPR: Gumbo, 493 Children 18 to 36 months enjoy sto- take a peek at the night sky dur- March 31. Just a quick walk across Atlantic Ave. between Nevins Street and ries and playtime. Registration required. ing an astronomy workshop on Prospect Park at the Audubon Third Avenue; (718) 855-7808; 11:15 March 10, and finally, discover Center, children create unique Story and play: Mapleton Public Li- am–1:15 pm; $75 ($10 for certificate). brary, 1702 60th St. between 16th and interesting facts about our cur- projects and have fun with games Led by registered nurse Debra Scaccia. 17th avenues; (718) 256-2117; www. rent weather patterns and global every weekend through April. brooklynpubliclibrary.org; 11 am; Free. warming on March 25. All of the events are free, and ElectriCity Live: 1:30 pm. New York Transit Museum. See Saturday, March Infants to five years old hear stories, Children learn about the great all are family friendly. 10. play with toys and earn free books. outdoors when they meet with For times, locations, and infor- Little Scientists: Brooklyn Children’s the Urban Park Rangers on March mation, visit www.nycgovparks.org; The Beauty of Ballet: Brooklyn Cen- Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. 24 at the Fort Greene Park Visitor www.prospectpark.org; and check ter for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www. Center for a nature walk. our calendar listings. College, 2900 Campus Rd., between brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am and 2:30 Amersfort Place and Kenilworth Place; (718) 951-4500; www.brooklyncenter- pm; Free with museum admission. online.org; 2 pm; Free. Children 5 and younger explore the Thursday, March 1. $25. Students and faculty of the School of world of natural science with hands-on Fundraiser for IS 187, the Christa Game day: 3:30 pm. Clarendon Public American Ballet present program where activities. McAuliffe Intermediate School. Library. See Thursday, March 1. children watch a class and enjoy excerpts Babies and books: Mill Basin Public from famous ballets. For children six Library, 2385 Ralph Ave. at Veterans Av- Game workshop: Kings Highway Sat, March 10 and up. enue; (718) 241-3973; www.brooklyn- Public Library, 2115 Ocean Ave. at Av- publiclibrary.org; 1 pm; Free. enue R; (718) 339-2783; Http://www. Women’s History: Brooklyn Chil- Mon, March 12 Children birth to 18 months and their brooklynpubliclibrary.org; 5:30 pm; dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at caregivers enjoy stories, sing songs and Free. St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; Toddler time: 11 am. Gerritsen Beach finger play. Teens take part in a game design www.brooklynkids.org; 10 am–4 pm; Public Library. See Monday, March 5. Free with museum admission. workshop led by expert gamers from Cobble Hill Celebrate women at the museum with “Pippi Longstocking”: Thurs, March 8 Global Kids. Cinema, 265 Court St. between Butler & readings, performances and crafts. Douglass streets; (718) 596-9113; www. Game time: Brooklyn Public Library’s cobblehilltheatre.com‎; 4 pm; $7. Central branch, Flatbush Ave. at East- Fri, March 9 Weekend story time: Flatlands Pub- lic Library, 2065 Flatbush Ave. at Avenue Children take the journey with this ern Parkway in Grand Army Plaza; Reading is fun: 2 pm. Gerritsen P; (718) 253-4409; www.brooklynpubli- pig-tailed, freckled faced ragamuffin in (718) 230-2100; www.brooklynpub- Beach Public Library. See Friday, March clibrary.org; 11 am; Free. this fun flick as part of the Big Movies liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. 2. jsp?branchpageid=265; 10 am – noon; For preschoolers, birth to 5 years old. for Little Kids series. Free. Movie day: 4 pm. Brower Park Library. See Friday, March 2. Dance: Brooklyn Public Library’s Cen- Teens enjoy a full day of a game de- tral branch, Flatbush Ave. at East- Tues, March 13 sign workshop led by gamers from Penny Auction: IS 187, 1171 65th St. ern Parkway in Grand Army Plaza; Women’s History: 11:30 am–12:30 Global Kids. at 11th Avenue; (718) 236-3394 X1151; (718) 230-2100; www.brooklynpub- pm and 2:30 –3:30 pm. Brooklyn Chil- RIF: 3 pm. DeKalb Public Library. See [email protected]; 7 pm; liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. Continued on page 72 March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 71 Going Places

Continued from page 71 listen to songs. From twigs to mud huts, nests can be publiclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. dren’s Museum. See Saturday, March made out of anything. Check the nests jsp?branchpageid=265; 7:30 pm; Free. Women’s History: 11:30 am–12:30 in the museum’s collection. For children 10. pm and 2:30–3:30 pm. Brooklyn Chil- Children 3 - 7 hear stories and get a 4 and older. free book of a Ezra Jack Keats story. Babies and books: 1:30 pm. Brook- dren’s Museum. See Saturday, March lyn Public Library’s Brooklyn Heights 10. Mon, March 19 Fri, March 23 branch. See Tuesday, March 6. Reading is fun: 2 pm. Gerritsen Toddler time: 11 am. Gerritsen Beach Garden club: 4:30 pm. Flatlands Pub- Beach Public Library. See Friday, March “Dragons”: 10:30 am and 7:30 pm. Public Library. See Monday, March 5. lic Library. See Tuesday, March 6. 2. Nassau Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum. See Wednesday, March 21. Movie day: 4 pm. Brower Park Library. Wed, March 14 See Friday, March 2. Tues, March 20 Babies and books: 11:15 am. Clinton Babies and books: 1:30 pm. Brook- Hill Public Library. See Tuesday, March Toddler time: 10:45 am. Brook- lyn Public Library’s Brooklyn Heights 13. lyn Public Library’s Brooklyn Heights Sat, March 17 branch. See Tuesday, March 6. Reading is fun: 2 pm. Gerritsen branch. See Wednesday, March 7. St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Manhat- Garden club: 4:30 pm. Flatlands Pub- Beach Public Library. See Friday, March Story and play: 11 am. Mapleton tan, 44th Street and Fifth Avenue; 11 lic Library. See Tuesday, March 6. 2. Public Library. See Wednesday, March 7. am– 5 pm; Free. The annual event begins at 11 am and Movie day: 4 pm. Brower Park Library. Women’s History: 11:30 am–12:30 winds it’s way along Fifth Avenue and Wed, March 21 See Friday, March 2. pm and 2:30–3:30 pm. Brooklyn Chil- passes the American Irish Historical Soci- dren’s Museum. See Saturday, March ety at 83rd Street, and then ends at the Toddler time: 10:45 am. Brook- “The Neverending Story”: 7 pm. 10. Metropolitan Museum of Art at 86th lyn Public Library’s Brooklyn Heights Jack H Skirball Center for the Perform- Street. branch. See Wednesday, March 7. ing Arts. See Thursday, March 22. Babies and books: 1 pm. Mill Basin Public Library. See Wednesday, March 7. Weekend story time: 11 am. Flat- Story and play: 11 am. Mapleton “Brooklyn Village”: Roulette, Third lands Public Library. See Saturday, Public Library. See Wednesday, March 7. Ave. at Atlantic Avenue; (646) 397- March 10. 2765; www.bphil.org; 7:30 pm; $20. Thurs, March 15 Babies and books: 1 pm. Mill Basin Public Library. See Wednesday, March 7. The multimedia presentation by the Women’s History: 11:30 am–12:30 St. Patrick’s celebration: Brooklyn Brooklyn Philharmonic, featuring art and Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. pm and 2:30–3:30 pm. Brooklyn Chil- “Dragons”: Nassau Veteran’s Memo- stories. at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; dren’s Museum. See Saturday, March rial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turn- www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am–12:30 10. pike; (516) 794-9300; www.Ringling. pm; Free with museum admission. Sat, March 24 com; 7:30 pm; $20- $150. Arts and crafts: Gerritsen Beach Learn about the traditions, foods and Come and celebrate this once in a mil- Easter egg hunt: Brooklyn Children’s Public Library, 2808 Gerritsen Ave. be- celebrations of the Emerald Isle. Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. tween Bartlett Place and Gotham Av- lennium show honoring the Year of the Pot of Gold: Brooklyn Public Library’s Dragon. Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www. enue; (718) 368-1435; www.brooklyn- brooklynkids.org; 10 am–4 pm; Free publiclibrary.org; 3 pm; Free. Central branch, Flatbush Ave. at East- Bailey Circus present the Shaolin Kung ern Parkway in Grand Army Plaza; Fu Warriors, Cossack riders, Asian ele- with museum admission. For children. (718) 230-2100; www.brooklynpub- phants, tigers and the Globe of Steel. Join the Easter Bunny and search for RIF: 3 pm. DeKalb Public Library. See liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. eggs. jsp?branchpageid=265; 1 pm; Free. Thursday, March 1. Thurs, March 22 “Dragons”: 11 am, 3 pm and 7:30 Celebrate Irish heritage month by pm. Nassau Veteran’s Memorial Coli- Game day: 3:30 pm. Clarendon Public “Dragons”: 10:30 am and 7:30 pm. listening to folktales told by Timothy seum. See Wednesday, March 21. Library. See Thursday, March 1. Connell. Nassau Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum. See Wednesday, March 21. Comic workshop: Clinton Hill Public Weekend story time: 11 am. Flat- lands Public Library. See Saturday, Library, 380 Washington Ave. between Sun, March 18 RIF: 3 pm. DeKalb Public Library. See Lafayette and Greene avenues; (718) March 10. St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Holy Thursday, March 1. 398-8713; www.brooklynpubliclibrary. Concert: Brooklyn Public Library’s org; 4 pm; Free. Name of Jesus Church, 245 Prospect Pk Game day: 3:30 pm. Clarendon Public W. at 14th Street; (718) 499-9482; 9 Central branch, Flatbush Ave. at East- Teens design comic books. Library. See Thursday, March 1. am; Free. ern Parkway in Grand Army Plaza; Movie day: Pacific Public Library, 25 The 37th annual parade kicks off with Crafting: Homecrest Public Library, (718) 230-2100; www.brooklynpub- Fourth Ave at Pacific Street; (718) 596- a pre-parade mass at Holy Name of 2525 Coney Island Ave. between Gra- liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. 4114; www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; 4 Jesus Church, 245 Prospect Pk West at vesend Neck Road and Avenue V; (718) jsp?branchpageid=265; 1 pm; Free. pm; Free. 14th Street followed by the parade. 382-5924; www.brooklynpubliclibrary. This interactive concert features Children enjoy an age appropriate org; 4 pm; Free. Flooky, a robot and the Beans. St. Patrick’s celebration: 11:30 film. Call for title. Teens make a spring project. am–12:30 pm. Brooklyn Children’s Mu- Nature workshop: Fort Greene Park Teen time: Mill Basin Public Library, seum. See Saturday, March 17. Game workshop: 5:30 pm. Kings Visitor Center, Enter park at Myrtle Av- 2385 Ralph Ave. at Veterans Avenue; Highway Public Library. See Thursday, enue and Washington Park; (718) 722- (718) 241-3973; www.brooklynpublicli- Reading: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- March 8. 3218; 1 pm; Free. seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks brary.org; 4 pm; Free. Children learn about the great Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www.brook- “The Neverending Story”: Jack outdoors. Play PS2, Rock Band or Guitar Hero lynkids.org; 12:30–1 pm and 2:30 –3 H Skirball Center for the Performing with friends. pm; Free with museum admission. Arts, 566 LaGuardia Pl. at Washington Cinderella: Kingsborough Community The Big Moment celebrates the Per- Square; (212) 352-3101; www.skirball- College, 2001 Oriental Blvd. at Decatur Fri, March 16 sian New Year of Norooz. Suitable for center.nyu.edu; 7 pm; $20-$30. Avenue; (718) 891-6199; www.cov- all ages. Based on the classic German novel. enantballet.org; 2 and 7 pm; $20 ($17 Babies and books: Clinton Hill Public seniors and children under 12). Library, 380 Washington Ave. between For children eight and up. Best nest contest: Brooklyn Chil- Performed by the members of Cove- Lafayette and Greene avenues; (718) dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at Bedtime stories: Brooklyn Pub- nant Ballet Theatre and CBTB Academy. 398-8713; www.brooklynpubliclibrary. St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; lic Library’s Central branch, Flatbush org; 4:15 pm; Free. www.brooklynkids.org; 1:30 –2:30 pm; Ave. at Eastern Parkway in Grand Army “The Neverending Story”: 2 and 7 Infants to 18 months hear stories or Free with museum admission. Plaza; (718) 230-2100; www.brooklyn- pm. Jack H Skirball Center for the Per- 72 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Going Places forming Arts. See Thursday, March 22. 5792; www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; 3:15 pm; Free. “Brooklyn Village”: 7:30 pm. Rou- For children. lette. See Friday, March 23. Game day: 3:30 pm. Clarendon Public Sun, March 25 Library. See Thursday, March 1. “Dragons”: 11 am, 3 pm and 7:30 Teen time: 4 pm. Mill Basin Public Li- pm. Nassau Veteran’s Memorial Coli- brary. See Thursday, March 15. seum. See Wednesday, March 21. Fri, March 30 Mad Hatter Tea Party: Dyker Golf Club, 86th St. at Seventh Avenue; (917) Babies and books: 11:15 am. Clinton 836-3788; [email protected]; Hill Public Library. See Tuesday, March 15. www.nycevent.americangolf.com; 11:30 am–3 pm; $35 ($20 children). “MacHomer”: Jack H Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, 566 LaGuardia Fun for the whole family to enjoy a Pl. at Washington Square; (212) 352- performance of “Alice Storms the Pal- 3101; www.skirballcenter.nyu.edu; 2 ace;” scavenger hunt; prizes for best hat; and 8 pm; $20-$32. balloons; face painting; arts and crafts; cupcake decorating. Advanced ticket Starring Rick Miller. For children eight purchase only. Brunch includes Bever- and up. ages and a sweet treat. Reading is fun: 2 pm. Gerritsen Beach Ecology workshop: Salt Marsh Na- Public Library. See Friday, March 2. ture Center, 3302 Avenue U; (718) 421- Movie day: 4 pm. Brower Park Library. 2021; 1 pm; Free. See Friday, March 2. Participants learn about the current weather patterns. Suitable for all ages. The scoop on poop Sat, March 31 Aah-choo!: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- ere’s the pooper-scooper dous!,” share a stinky joke or two, seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Weekend story time: 11 am. Flat- of the century: Arty Ben- and have a butt-kicking good time Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www.brook- lands Public Library. See Saturday, lynkids.org; 1:30–2:30 pm; Free with H nett is introducing his making your own book and play- March 10. number one book on number ing the “Whose poo are you?” museum admission. “Fish Face”: Brooklyn Public Library’s Children 4 and older learn how to twos, “Poopendous!,” at the Chil- matching game. Central branch, Flatbush Ave. at East- keep healthy. dren’s Museum of Manhattan on Bennett will sign copies of his ern Parkway in Grand Army Plaza; March 31. book and meet with other poop “The Neverending Story”: 2 and 7 (718) 230-2100; www.brooklynpub- pm. Jack H Skirball Center for the Per- “Everyone poops — yes, its aficionados, preferably those liclibrary.org/branch_library_detail. forming Arts. See Thursday, March 22. true — from aardvarks to the ages 5 and older, from 4 to 5 pm. jsp?branchpageid=265; 1 pm; Free. humped zebu,” writes Bennett “Meet the Author: Artie Bennett” ArtsPower National Touring The- “Laugh, Laugh, Laugh”: Kingsbor- ever so eloquently on this topic on March 31 at 4 pm at the Chil- atre presents this book by Patricia Reilly ough Community College, 2001 Orien- that’s sure to be a hit with the dren’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 school series as a musical. tal Blvd. at Decatur Avenue; (718) 368- 5596; www.onstageatkingsborough. kids. This Brooklynite’s second West 83rd St. between Broadway “MacHomer”: 2 and 8 pm. Jack H org; 3 pm; $12. picture book is full of humor- and Amsterdam Avenue in Manhat- Skirball Center for the Performing Arts. See Friday, March 30. Funny stories, paper bag sets and ous verses that deliver the inside tan, (212) 721-1223. Free with mu- costumes performed by the Paper Bag scoop on all the uses for poop, seum admission of $11 for adults and Dance: Brooklyn Center for the Per- Players. and it features eye-popping illus- children; $7 for seniors, and free for forming Arts at Brooklyn College, 2900 trations by Mike Moran. children under 12 months. For more, Campus Rd., between Amersfort Place Mon, March 26 After a reading of “Poopen- visit cmom.org. and Kenilworth Place; (718) 951-4500; www.brooklyncenteronline.org; 8 pm; Toddler time: 11 am. Gerritsen Beach $30-$40. Public Library. See Monday, March 5. lic Library. See Tuesday, March 6. brary, 1702 60th St. between 16th and Red Star-Red Army a chorus and “Dragons”: 7:30 pm. Nassau Veter- 17th avenues; (718) 256-2117; www. dance ensemble performs athletic folk an’s Memorial Coliseum. See Wednes- Wed, March 28 brooklynpubliclibrary.org; 4 pm; Free. dances and traditional Russian themes. day, March 21. Teens give their input on how the li- Toddler time: 10:45 am. Brook- brary should work. Sun, April 1 lyn Public Library’s Brooklyn Heights Tues, March 27 branch. See Wednesday, March 7. Gustafer Yellowgold’s Year in Thurs, March 29 the Day: 92YTribeca, 200 Hudson Babies and books: 1:30 pm. Brook- Story and play: 11 am. Mapleton Toddler time: Bedford Public Library, St. at Vestry Street; (212) 601-1000; lyn Public Library’s Brooklyn Heights Public Library. See Wednesday, March 7. branch. See Tuesday, March 6. 496 Franklin Ave. at Fulton Street; (718) www.92y.org/92ytribeca; 11 am; $15 (children under 2 free). Babies and books: 1 pm. Mill Basin 623-0012; www.brooklynpubliclibrary. “Poopendous”: Children’s Museum Public Library. See Wednesday, March 7. org; 11 am; Free. The little guy from the Sun returns to of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St. at Am- For children 18 to 36 months to play NYC with his national tour with an out- sterdam Avenue; (212) 721-1223; www. Arts and crafts: Clarendon Public and hear stories. of-this world multimedia show. cmom.org; 4–5 pm; Free with museum Library, 2035 Nostrand Ave. between Making waves: Brooklyn Children’s admission. Farragut and Glenwood roads; (718) RIF: 3 pm. DeKalb Public Library. See Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Artie Bennett has done it again, 421-1159; www.brooklynpubliclibrary. Thursday, March 1. Marks Avenue; (718) 735-4400; www. his number two book is about - you org; 3:30 pm; Free. Arts and crafts: Gravesend Public brooklynkids.org; 1:30–2:30 pm; Free guessed it, Number 2. Children create a unique project. Library, 303 Ave. X between West First with museum admission. Garden club: 4:30 pm. Flatlands Pub- Advisory board: Mapleton Public Li- and West Second streets; (718) 382- Physics for kids 4 and up. March 2012 • BROOKLYN Family 73

theMarketplace

BALLET BALLETA CHILD CARE COSMETOLOGIST

NYS Licensed Master Social Worker Milana Licensed cosmetoLogist

• Permanent Make-Up • Photo Facial $ • Professional Make-Up • European Facial 25.00

• Microdermabrasion • Acne Treatment Quality Family Care off • Bioelectric Face Lift • Electrolysis st Babysitting • Nanny Services • Chemical Peel • Ear Piercing 1 Facial! Adult & Senior Companion Care Adoption Services Care Providers Counseling, Training,

Homestudy Reports White Lily Hair Salon • (718) 934-3923 With Background Checks 3094 Brighton 3rd Street, Brooklyn 11235 593 Vanderbilt Avenue • 347-365-4350

CPR INSTRUCTION FAMILY LAW HOME BASED OPPORTUNITY

Beating Heart Rescue, LLC NEED EXTRA INCOME??

Rescue Basic Life Support Work From Home for Healthcare and Earn an Extra Infant Providers $ $ + Choking First Aid, CPR, 1000- 5000

Techniques AED for Workplace a month Training • Free Online Training American Heart Association • Flexible Hours

Certified Instructors Check us out at Maria Fasulo, RN 917-297-5526 Pierre Cabrera, RN 347-528-9762 www.freewilljourney.com

HOME BASED OPPORTUNITY HOME BASED OPPORTUNITY HOME BASED OPPORTUNITY

ARE YOU HIGHLY MOTIVATED? Wanted Distributors Earn Extra $$$!!! & Sales Agents Live Healthy - It’s In Learn how you can operate a Earn Big Money! Set Your Own Hours! mini-office outlet from home. Lose weight, gain weight or maintain your weight! Be Your Own Boss! • Free on-line training • Childrens’ Health • Vitamins • Joint Support Use Your Home Or Place Of Business • Flexible Hours • Skin & Hair Products • Shakes • Circulation To Earn Extra Income • Great for At-Home moms • Weight Loss Challenges • Relaxation • Snack Control Selling Ladies Lingerie & Accessories Customer Service 24 Hours Visit us at u u Call Maryellen Seger 718.836.6115 [email protected] Tel. 917-833-7643 Ask for Barrett www.goldenventure.net www.greatshapetoday.com u Free samples & catalogue E-mail: [email protected] • www.bjmlingerie.com ICE SKATING LESSONS Steeplechase Ice Skating Center Stay Connected @ The Abe Stark Skating Rink West 19th St. & Surf Ave. (Next To KeySpan Stadium) To advertise with us please call 718-260-2587 Ages 4 - Adult Learn To Skate Programs Basic Skills 1-8, Hockey 1-3 Adult 1-4, Freestyle 1-6 & More Have Fun While Building Strength, Gift Certificates Confidence & Coordination Available 718.253.8919 74 BROOKLYN Fami LY • March 2012 theMarketplace

MUSIC LESSONS MUSIC LESSONS PIANO LESSONS

SoundS of MuSiC Piano Lessons Seasoned Performing Musicians with Drum Lessons Extensive Teaching Experience All Styles, Levels, & Ages For Children Private Lessons for Children Carroll Gardens Studio Bay Ridge & Adults at All Levels Will travel to you! • Piano • Keyboard Ages 4 & Up • Violin • Oboe Call Jordan Lessons include: • Recorder • Saxophone (B.F.A., M.M.) • Flute • Clarinet • Vocal 347-262-7614 Music Theory with Use of Computer 718-232-2703 • Cell 646-752-7973 Daniel & Diana Barkan • [email protected] NYS Licensed Teacher www.soundsofmusicarts.com www.JordanYoung.net 718-238-7106 • www.riddlemusic.com

PIANO LESSONS PIANO LESSONS TUTORING

Piano Lessons PIANO LESSONS AT YOUR HOME Specializing in Wilson Language Program with patient and friendly teacher Tutor: Art/Academic For Everyone who’s great with kids • All academic areas K-6: • Will travel to your home or (Turner Towers) Eastern Parkway I’ve been teaching both kids and adults for many years in Reading, Math, ELATest Prep, my South Slope office across from the Brooklyn Museum Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights, Park Slope, Remedial and Special Needs • 30+ years experience in Experienced, friendly teacher with MA in Music Prospect Heights and Prospect Park • Art: Private or Small Group public schools in Art, • High School/College Special Ed, Resource Room, Student recitals twice a year • Six foot concert grand piano All ages, all levels, beginners welcome! References available Near 2, 3, 4 & 5 Subways Portfolio Prep and Test Prep Call Luiz Simas: (212) 481-2401 • General / Special Ed Academic Tutor K-6 Call me and let’s talk about or email: [email protected] what you or your child would like to learn • Home & School Organization • Art Education Specialist • Portfolio Consultant Call Beth Anderson-Harold: 718-636-6010 www.risajohnson.com or Email: [email protected] Tel. 718.369.0647 • Cell. 917.692.6184 ADVERTISE WITH US! BROOKLYN QUEENS BRONX STATEN ISLAND Family Family Family Family

February 2010 July 2010 Staten I Children’sFREE QUEENS FREE Dental Health Sland

High Schools AnniversaryEight Year Guide to October 2010 March 2010 Family www.familyresourceny.comFamily www.webfamilyny.com BROOKLYN FREE FREE BRONX/RIVERDALE Talkin’

ti n g. c o m Teens paren Familywww.ny Familywww.webfamilyny.com Safer Doubling up! surfing Managing the cost of multiples For today’s iTeens Mastering Facebook Smarter social networking Perfect match Big smiles Pick your summer program now! The ortho checklist

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

To place an ad in our line of family publicaTions, please call 718.260.4554

March 2012 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 75 around town Profile in courage

By Shavana aBruzzo ing on March 18 at the Brooklyn of their daily routine, from trips to Traumatic Museum commemorating National the rehab center and the grocery t’s every family’s nightmare: a Brain Injury Awareness Month. store, to family outings capped by brain injury healthy, active, joke-cracking “Back Walking Forward” puts a jolly banter at their breakfast table. I child suffers a sudden, traumatic human face on a major global public The award-winning filmmaker, whose brain injury, forcing him and his health crisis, but its potency lies in movies — “Long Way from Home,” documentary loved ones to redefine happiness as Kaul’s masterful portrayal of an or- “One Hand Don’t Clap” — challenge their lives are changed forever. dinary family dealing with extraordi- assumptions, bridge worlds and shat- recounts an In 1995, Susan and Isaac Micha- nary issues, using love, devotion and ter barriers, came away humbled. lowski of Sheepshead Bay were dot- humor as therapeutic tools. “Susan and Isaac never lost a ing pa rents ra ising t wo energetic sons “After Eric’s brain injury, I was bro- chance to crack a joke, and I don’t incredible tale when their eldest, Eric, a 19-year-old ken-hearted,” says his mother, Susan, think it’s by chance that Eric teases jock who wanted to study sports a vivacious teacher whose words us in so many scenes of the docu- medicine in college, was hit by a tumble out like a waterfall. “I didn’t mentary — it runs in the family,” van, leaving him in a coma, and then, know if he was going to live or die, says Kaul. after multiple surgeries, confined to but there was no time for despairing. I Their seeming lack of self-pity is a wheelchair as he learned to live needed to take care of his needs.” impressive. again — from scratch. Today, Eric, now 35, eats by himself, “This is the hand we were dealt Eric’s heroic journey to breathe, walks with assistance, and holds con- — play it the best you can, and don’t talk, move, recognize his family, and versations — gains which have sur- fold,” says Isaac, an electrical engi- laugh once more is profiled in Kav- passed the expectations of his thera- neer and a former scoutmaster who ery Kaul’s inspirational and critically pists and doctors, who once thought now volunteers for the U.S.O. acclaimed indie documentary, “Back he would have the functioning skills He is seen joined at the hip with Walking Forward.” It explores the in- of an infant — if he survived at all. his son as they frolic in an adult jury’s aftermath, and spotlights the The miracle man is also horseplaying aquacise class at Kingsborough unconditional love and support of again, to the delight of his family. Community College. his parents, and younger brother Jef- “The other day, I was washing his Expect to cry — and laugh — as frey, who provide Eric with ’round- face, and he tells me with that impish Eric triumphs with a wit and matu- the-clock care. It was presented to grin of his, ‘Oh, go wash your own rity defying his injury: “I am Eric #2. rave reviews at last year’s Sprout face!’,” giggles Susan. I used to be Eric #1. He died in a car Film Festival, among other national Kaul, who met the Michalowskis accident,” he declares in one seg- and international venues, and is set through Eric’s neurosurgeon, Dr. ment. In another, he states, “I can’t to enrapture new viewers at a screen- Kathryn Ko, shares touching glimpses think. No brain.” In yet another, he vows, “I WILL walk!” The cheeky communiques indi- cate his profound progress. “Tell Eric he has an attitude, and he wants to know about his longitude!” says Susan, who adds that her son, now without any neurological filters, is quick to speak his mind — sometimes leaving her rolling her eyes. “If he sees a bald man, he’ll say, ‘Hi, baldy’!” The Kodak moments are provided by the movie star, himself, such as when he lip-syncs to Louis Prima’s version of “Just a Gigolo,” proving that even a traumatic brain injury is no match for the human spirit. “Back Walking Forward” at the Brook- lyn Museum [200 Eastern Pkwy. at Wash- ington Avenue in Crown Heights, (718) 638-5000], March 18 at 2 pm. Free with museum admission; suggested donation, $12 for adults, and $8 for students and

Photo courtesy of Kavery Kaul / Riverfilms seniors. For more info, visit http://www. Traumatic brain injury survivor Eric Michalowski shows he’s also a ladies man by flattering his biggest fan — mom Susan. backwalkingforward.com/home.html. 76 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012 Party Planners

Happy Henry Rico The Clown “The Wizard/Magician Clown” PuPPies brought to your next birthday... Magician As seen Close Up Magic on TV at its very finest Comical Nerd Really, Really Fun • Hands-on Magic Real Live • Balloon aniMals Puppies Totally Interactive • Magic • Balloon Sculpting Rico is a • Face Painting • Comedy • Roasting University Great for ages 1½ to adults • illusions and Hundreds Professor of oF costuMe cHaracters • Educational Shows Speech and call 718-258-2342 Birthdays, Bar Mitzvahs, christenings, • Adults/Kids Communication to book your next puppy party children’s and adult Parties Corporate aCCounts welCome See the puppies at seen 718-434-9697 • 917-318-9092 on 917-617-3698 www.PuppyParadise.com HBo www.HappyHenrytheWizard.com

What do you do before the cake has been served & the presents opened? Best Clowns Clowns • Costume Characters Havin’ a party Princess Parties • Magicians 9520 ave. L, Brooklyn Award-Winning Kids’ Entertainer • Magicians • Clowns • Face Painters Face Painters • Balloon Art brings fun, games and music to • 100s of Costume Characters To Choose From Caricaturists • Toddler Games your child’s party. • Balloon Animals & Sculptures FREE Lots of participation $ Cotton Candy & More CD Mention this ad & get 10 off any show for a memorable time. Serving families in our communities since 1984 1-800-75-CLOWN or 212-614-0988 for Every Child 917-538-7213 718-251-0500 • www.havingaparty.com . Bi-Lingual Performers Available * Private & Corporate Events Guest All Boros, L.I. & Westchester www.richardyounger.com

All At A ReAsonAble PRice (718) 441-5764 (718) 441-7796 www.allinoneentertainment.com Clowns • Magicians • Cartoon Characters Brand New DJ Service • Arts & Crafts PARTY ROOM All Types of Bounce • Face Painting Sand/ w/Soft Play Area Spin Art • Balloon Artists Private Events • and much more!!! WEEkdAy SPEciAl STArTS AT $9000

95-25 Jamaica Ave, Woodhaven, NY 11421 Stay Connected To advertise with us please call 718-260-2587

March 2012 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 77 New & Noteworthy Cat fancy! Cloaked in style Sometimes it’s tough to This adorable cloak will soon be keep pets in cramped New a staple of your child’s springtime York City apartments — wardrobe. Made of canvas, lined we get it. But is your kid with brilliant green flannel, and cat crazy? Then this is the featuring a hood, it will easily purr-fect present! shield her from March winds. These beautiful, fun, The cape is covered with fuzzy cat puppets are hand- classic images of hunting dogs made, one-of-a-kind, and and pheasants, giving this sweet come in a variety of colors and toddler garment a charming, vin- textures. (Unlike regular cats, these tage feel. With one button clasping guys can be made from bright the cloak together, it’s easy for your Release the Hounds girls hooded cape purple wool felt.) The marionette tot to put on and take off — but who by April Scott on Etsy, $48. For info, visit has moveable paws, legs, and tail, would want to ever take it off? www.etsy.com/shop/aprilscott. which your child can maneuver by holding onto the crossbar. Soon he’ll be putting on theatrical purr- formances for his friends and fam- Welcome to the ‘Jungle’ ily — and you won’t even need to Brooklyn’s indie darlings up to the Pop Ups’ “Outside Voices,” empty a litter box! of the under-10 set, the Pop which garnered them Cat puppet by Inside the House Ups, are releasing their a National Asso- on Etsy, $85, made to order. For info, second studio album in ciation of Parenting visit http://www.etsy.com/shop/In- April, called “Radio Jun- Publications Award sideTheHouse. gle.” This hip, fun, goofy, for best music as well energetic garage band’s as spots on the Top new CD abounds with 10 of 2010 lists at The songs about everything Washington Post, Time ‘Dog’-gone exciting from bananas to ele- Out New York Kids, The phants to mathematics to the artis- Fids and Kamily critics’ If your child finds it hard to con- River in Poland could possibly tic potential in a box of colorful cray- poll, and more. centrate during story time, look survive after drifting 60 miles and ons, and how to make constellation The Pop Ups’ “Radio Jungle” CD, no further than Mônica Caresi’s into the Baltic Sea. designs by connecting the stars. This available April 3, $9.99. For more, visit new book, “Little Dog Lost: The Compassionate firemen attempt highly anticipated album is the follow- www.thepopups.com. True Story of a Brave Dog Named to rescue the dog — and fail. Day Baltic” (Nancy Paulsen Books). turns into a very cold winter’s Although recommended for kids night, and the dog hangs on. Care- ages 3-5, we found that even us si’s beautiful illustrations evoke all ‘Buzz’-ing parents were eager to turn the of the emotions of the tenacious pages of this exciting adventure canine that withstands hunger, tale to find out how a pet who got thirst, fear and the frigid tempera- about Africa stuck on an ice floe on the Vistula tures for two days — as The perfect introduction to folk- well as his happiness lore for children, “Why Mosquitoes upon being rescued and Buzz in People’s Ears and More Af- cared for by the crew rican Folk Tales” DVD, boasts five of a scientific research beautifully illustrated stories about vessel. West Africa and the secret lives of A page of photo- the animals that live there. In “Why graphs and additional Mosquitoes Buzz,” by author Verna text satisfy curios- Aardema and narrated by James Earl ity about the real-life Jones, a mosquito offers a piece of because another animal is hiding in- pooch and his hero. gossip to an iguana, who quickly side; and in “Hot Hippo,” the epony- “Little Dog Lost” is one spreads the news across the animal mous animal agrees not to eat the book you won’t mind kingdom until finally, the mosquito is river’s fish in exchange for a chance reading over and over outed as a pest. In “Not So Fast Son- to cool off in the water. again. gololo,” a little boy spends a day shop - Scholastic Storybook Treasures’ “Why “Little Dog Lost” by ping with his grandmother; “Who’s Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears and Mônica Caresi, $15.99. in Rabbit’s House?” tells the story of more African Folk Tales” DVD, $14.95. a rabbit who can’t get into her home, For info, visit www.scholastic.com.

78 BROOKLYN Family • March 2012

SOME KIDS JUST CAN’T WAIT FOR YMCA CAMP. Have you made plans for your child’s summer yet?

The YMCA has two fun ways to fulfill your child’s summer wishes at YMCA Summer Camp. At DAY CAMPS in NYC’s five boroughs, our caring staff helps kids grow in self-confidence, while exploring new friendships and the world around them. Through an emphasis on summer learning, campers have the chance to build academic skills while experiencing all the enjoyment of summer camp.

Our sleepaway NEW YORK YMCA CAMP, introduces kids to a whole new world of adventurous learning and exciting experiences, just 87 miles northwest of New York City.

Either way, YMCA SUMMER CAMP is the perfect place to meet new friends, participate in sports and creative arts, explore science and technology, swim, go on field trips, learn about nature, build core values, appreciate culture and diversity, and—of course—have fun.

REGISTER FOR YMCA DAY AND SLEEPAWAY CAMP TODAY. IT’S NOT TOO EARLY TO REGISTER BUT SPACE IS FILLING FAST! CALL 212-630-YMCA or VISIT YMCANYC.ORG 10% EARLY BIRD AND SIBLING DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE

VISIT OUR OPEN HOUSE AT ALL BRANCHES SATURDAY, MARCH 3RD, APRIL 28TH AND MAY 19TH 10AM-4PM