BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Brooklyn Family March 2015 Features Columns 6 Teacher’S Tips 16 Behavior & Beyond Advice for Students Taking the Common by Dr

March 2015 BROOKLYN FREE Family Where Every Child Matters fresh START Conquering the Common Core Tackling tween acne Supporting your child’s athletics

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2 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Brooklyn Family March 2015 Features columns 6 Teacher’s tips 16 Behavior & Beyond Advice for students taking the Common By Dr. Marcie Beigel Core English Language Arts exam in third through eighth grades 22 FabuLYSS Finds By Allison Plitt by Lyss Stern 8 Dos & don’ts at the 24 Parents Helping Parents doctor’s office by Sharon C. Peters By Dr. Matthew Weissman 26 Healthy Living 10 Under their skin by Danielle Sullivan When acne is spotted, these tips can help 32 Just Write Mom by Jamie Lober by Danielle Sullivan 12 Open communication 34 Family Health Actions speak louder than words when By Dr. Pramod Narula, MD families try to understand one another By Carolyn-Waterbury Tieman 36 Dear Dr. Karyn By Dr. Karyn Gordon 14 How to be a better 34 cheerleader for your 50 A Letter from College By Aglaia Ho young athlete What mom and dad can do to support 52 Divorce & Separation their kids’ athletic endeavors By Lee Chabin, Esq. 55 By Denise Yearian 54 Ask an Attorney 18 Family-friendly Boston By Alison Arden Besunder, Esq. 58 By Shnieka L. Johnson 56 The Book Worm 20 New York International By Terri Schlichenmeyer Children’s Film Festival 64 New & Noteworthy The country’s largest film festival for kids By Lisa J. Curtis and teens is happening right here in New York City 66 Good Sense Eating by Shnieka L. Johnson by Christine M. Palumbo, RD 27 What to know about hand, foot and mouth disease calendar This virus is a pain for preschoolers 58 March Events By Alexa Bigwarfe 35 A whale of a tale special sections By Kids First! Film Critic 28 Charter School Directory 37 Be a petal pusher Celebrate Plant A Flower Day every day 40 Camp Directory by Sarah Yale 65 Party Planners 38 When Mom & Dad have 65 The Marketplace camp anxiety Terrified about sending your child away? Here’s how to ease those fears By Dr. Heidi Smith Luedtke 55 A St. Patrick’s to remember What to learn from a holiday picnic 14 37 by Patrick Hempfing

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 3 Letter from the publisher Parenting choices all month long ho in New York every day in every way well being. I argued with teachers at our helpful and informative web- isn’t ready for between being a working sometimes (while being fully respect- site, www.NYParenting.com. Our W a change in parent and working as a ful of their objectives and priorities) Calendar Editor Joanna makes a big the weather? When those parent. I know from first- that no, my daughter had not done effort to put together an exciting and first pussy willows come hand experience. her homework because we had gone full monthly guide to great events up and we see some buds, Although I didn’t set out the night before to the ballet, or around the five boroughs. Speaking we will be much happier. out to be a single parent, had seen a play. I considered us very of our website, there is more infor- In the meantime, the days it turned out that way, and lucky to have that even as an option, mation and helpful and provocative are growing longer and the responsibilities I had so saying no to the invite would have articles on our site than we are able the quality of light will tell us that combining a very necessary career been nuts. That’s what life in New to offer in print. If you like what you spring is just around the bend. with raising my child were daunting York means to me and why I came read here in the magazine, you will Our March issue offers a look to say the least. Somehow, however, here long ago from Chicago. love the site. If you need any help in ahead at Summer Programs & Camps in spite of the full load, I managed I believe in the enhancement of a navigating to find what you’re look- as well as at Charter School tours. to become the head of our school’s total education that does not always ing for, give us a call. With April registration dates loom- parent body, drive my daughter to take place in a classroom, but is Have a great month. Watch for the ing, now is the time to begin doing the soccer games all over Long Island found on the road on a family trip, signs of spring. It’s definitely around research necessary to select choices for two years, while also managing to in a museum, in front of PBS qual- the bend. Thanks for reading. for further investigation. One great take trips, visit museums, and go to ity television programming, hearing thing about being a parent in New the theater and ballet with her. music, seeing a family show, or read- York is that there is an abundance of We are enormously fortunate to ing a book together. Family time choice. Finding out your options and have so much intelligent stimulation used well and fully is an integral then going on tours is part of the re- around us and that we owe it to our piece of life and creates a foundation sponsibility of parenting. One needs children to participate with them in that is profound. Susan Weiss-Voskidis, to be a strong advocate for one’s the myriad of possibilities that will That said, please make use of our Publisher/Excutive Editor children, although it’s a balancing act further enhance their education and Calendars, both in print and online [email protected]

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March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 5 blank, Quercia advises, “Never leave multiple-choice questions blank. The teacher will give you a two-minute warning at the end of the test. With two minutes left, finish the question you’re working on and then you might be able to start one more. Bub- ble in answers if you have five blank answers left. Just guess. Bubble in ‘C, C, C’ or ‘A, B, C, D.’ There’s no penalty for guessing.” In regards to the extended-response questions, Quercia uses a formula that her school has been Teacher’s using for years called RAFT. As she explains, “R stands for ‘restate the question.’ A is ‘answer the question’ or parts of the question. F stands ‘for example.’ That’s where you give, for example, your text details. Students can quote the text details or para- phrase them. T is to ‘tie it together,’ to conclude it. Tie your conclusion back to the topic sentence in the introduction. Use summary type phrases like ‘as you can see.’ Those four steps should give you a good solid essay.” tips Quercia warns about a part of the exam where students are asked to By Allison Plitt read two passages on the same topic. Advice for “There will be a paired passage in y daughter is enrolled in one of the test booklets. It’s probably students taking the third grade at a Queens the third day. It’s two passages on a M public elementary school. similar topic. You’ll read the passages the Common For the past two years, she has come and then there will be questions home with report cards saying she only about the first passage. Then Core English performs above grade level in writ- there will be questions just about the ing. Since I work as a writer I have second passage. Then there might been trying to help her formulate her be a short-response question about Language Arts ideas into words and then into coher- both. Then you write an extended- ent sentences. Although my daugh- response question and you must in- exam in third ter is conscientious about doing her clude details from both passages as homework, I have found she is not it says it in the directions.” through eighth receptive to listening to my advice Since teachers from other schools when it comes to helping her com- will grade the short- and extended-re- grades pose sentences and essays. sponse questions, Quercia says hand- This year I finally made the deci- writing should be neat and legible. sion to hire a tutor to help her place “I’ve scored the test for the city her words onto paper. I found a The Common Core Standards Eng- each day to respond to all the ques- The reading passages are sepa- “I tell them to read the questions swers, she says, “They can flip back and you’re sitting in this room with woman through an online tutoring lish Language Arts exam for grades tions in their booklet. Students in rated into four categories: exposi- first because it gives you an idea as much as they need to.” Because all of these other teachers reading service who had been teaching Eng- three through eight is a three-day grades three and four will have an tory (explanatory), argumentative, about what the passage is about and an electronic machine scores the test after test after test. Once you lish Language Arts to middle school test on April 14, 15, and 16. It is com- hour and 10 minutes each day to re- instructional, and narrative. Creat- an idea about what you should be multiple-choice part of the test, she come across that test that’s sloppy, students at a Brooklyn public school prised of the same types of ques- spond to the questions. ing a seven-step guide for answering concentrating on,” she said. says it is important that children you really have to keep deciphering for 11 years. The New York City tions for all six grades. Students “There is just so much informa- the multiple-choice questions, Quer- After the students preview the fill in all of the bubble for their an- it. You can ask the other teachers Department of Education’s English are given three booklets: one to tion packed into the English Lan- cia says, “I always tell my students to questions, Quercia recommends swers. to come over and have this whole classes are comprised of speaking, complete each day of the test. On guage Arts testing booklet, so timing read the directions first. Then, take that they read the passages actively. As Quercia has proctored the test group discussion about this one test listening, vocabulary, reading com- the first day, there will be reading is important,” Quercia advises. a look at the title of the piece and “Students should be looking for for many years, she has seen every book because you can’t read it. The prehension, grammar, and writing. passages and multiple-choice ques- The night before the exam, Quer- also see if there are any pictures to key details from the questions as possible problem happen. truth is the test is easier to grade The tutor, Lisa Quercia, also pre- tions. On the second day the test cia tells parents to make sure their scan over. Sometimes the directions they read. They can bring and use “Every now and then I would catch when it’s legible.” pares her own students for their booklet is comprised of reading pas- children get enough sleep. might give them a hint. They might highlighters on the exam and high- a kid just answering in the test book To obtain more information about yearly state exam, and last year was sages, multiple-choice questions, “It’s also important to build confi- say ‘read this article,’ then you know light information that is part of the and then waiting to transfer the an- the New York State Common Core Stan- the first time she taught test prepara- short-response questions, and one dence in your children, so tell them it’s non-fiction and you’ll probably answer later, but they shouldn’t get swers to the answer sheet. That can dards exams, educators, parents and tion for the New York State Common extended-response question. The to do the best they can do,” she says. learn something. If the directions carried away with highlighting be- be a disaster if the student puts one students can visit the website www. Core Standards English Language third day’s booklet will have read- On the day of the exam, Quercia say ‘read this story,’ then you know cause it can slow them down.” answer in one wrong spot — then engageny.org. Arts exam. ing passages, short-response ques- advises that students eat a healthy you’re going to have characters, set- As far as answering the multiple- the whole test is wrong. It’s impor- Allison Plitt is an English Language “This is the second real year for tions, and one extended-response breakfast. “If students eat any sug- tings, problems, and solutions.” choice questions, Quercia encour- tant that students put their multiple- Art writer who lives in Queens with the Common Core Exam because question. ary foods or drinks for breakfast, Another tip Quercia tells her stu- ages students to use process of elim- choice answers on the answer sheet her husband and young daughter. She the first year is really transitional,” Students in grades five through then they get tired in the middle of dents is to preview the question be- ination. Encouraging students to go right away.” is a frequent contributor to New York she observed. eight will have an hour and a half the exam,” she observed. fore reading the passage. back to the passage to find the an- In regards to leaving answers Parenting.

6 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 blank, Quercia advises, “Never leave multiple-choice questions blank. The teacher will give you a two-minute warning at the end of the test. With two minutes left, finish the question you’re working on and then you might be able to start one more. Bub- ble in answers if you have five blank answers left. Just guess. Bubble in ‘C, C, C’ or ‘A, B, C, D.’ There’s no penalty for guessing.” In regards to the extended-response questions, Quercia uses a formula that her school has been Teacher’s using for years called RAFT. As she explains, “R stands for ‘restate the question.’ A is ‘answer the question’ or parts of the question. F stands ‘for example.’ That’s where you give, for example, your text details. Students can quote the text details or para- phrase them. T is to ‘tie it together,’ to conclude it. Tie your conclusion back to the topic sentence in the introduction. Use summary type phrases like ‘as you can see.’ Those four steps should give you a good solid essay.” tips Quercia warns about a part of the exam where students are asked to By Allison Plitt read two passages on the same topic. Advice for “There will be a paired passage in y daughter is enrolled in one of the test booklets. It’s probably students taking the third grade at a Queens the third day. It’s two passages on a M public elementary school. similar topic. You’ll read the passages the Common For the past two years, she has come and then there will be questions home with report cards saying she only about the first passage. Then Core English performs above grade level in writ- there will be questions just about the ing. Since I work as a writer I have second passage. Then there might been trying to help her formulate her be a short-response question about Language Arts ideas into words and then into coher- both. Then you write an extended- ent sentences. Although my daugh- response question and you must in- exam in third ter is conscientious about doing her clude details from both passages as homework, I have found she is not it says it in the directions.” through eighth receptive to listening to my advice Since teachers from other schools when it comes to helping her com- will grade the short- and extended-re- grades pose sentences and essays. sponse questions, Quercia says hand- This year I finally made the deci- writing should be neat and legible. sion to hire a tutor to help her place “I’ve scored the test for the city her words onto paper. I found a The Common Core Standards Eng- each day to respond to all the ques- The reading passages are sepa- “I tell them to read the questions swers, she says, “They can flip back and you’re sitting in this room with woman through an online tutoring lish Language Arts exam for grades tions in their booklet. Students in rated into four categories: exposi- first because it gives you an idea as much as they need to.” Because all of these other teachers reading service who had been teaching Eng- three through eight is a three-day grades three and four will have an tory (explanatory), argumentative, about what the passage is about and an electronic machine scores the test after test after test. Once you lish Language Arts to middle school test on April 14, 15, and 16. It is com- hour and 10 minutes each day to re- instructional, and narrative. Creat- an idea about what you should be multiple-choice part of the test, she come across that test that’s sloppy, students at a Brooklyn public school prised of the same types of ques- spond to the questions. ing a seven-step guide for answering concentrating on,” she said. says it is important that children you really have to keep deciphering for 11 years. The New York City tions for all six grades. Students “There is just so much informa- the multiple-choice questions, Quer- After the students preview the fill in all of the bubble for their an- it. You can ask the other teachers Department of Education’s English are given three booklets: one to tion packed into the English Lan- cia says, “I always tell my students to questions, Quercia recommends swers. to come over and have this whole classes are comprised of speaking, complete each day of the test. On guage Arts testing booklet, so timing read the directions first. Then, take that they read the passages actively. As Quercia has proctored the test group discussion about this one test listening, vocabulary, reading com- the first day, there will be reading is important,” Quercia advises. a look at the title of the piece and “Students should be looking for for many years, she has seen every book because you can’t read it. The prehension, grammar, and writing. passages and multiple-choice ques- The night before the exam, Quer- also see if there are any pictures to key details from the questions as possible problem happen. truth is the test is easier to grade The tutor, Lisa Quercia, also pre- tions. On the second day the test cia tells parents to make sure their scan over. Sometimes the directions they read. They can bring and use “Every now and then I would catch when it’s legible.” pares her own students for their booklet is comprised of reading pas- children get enough sleep. might give them a hint. They might highlighters on the exam and high- a kid just answering in the test book To obtain more information about yearly state exam, and last year was sages, multiple-choice questions, “It’s also important to build confi- say ‘read this article,’ then you know light information that is part of the and then waiting to transfer the an- the New York State Common Core Stan- the first time she taught test prepara- short-response questions, and one dence in your children, so tell them it’s non-fiction and you’ll probably answer later, but they shouldn’t get swers to the answer sheet. That can dards exams, educators, parents and tion for the New York State Common extended-response question. The to do the best they can do,” she says. learn something. If the directions carried away with highlighting be- be a disaster if the student puts one students can visit the website www. Core Standards English Language third day’s booklet will have read- On the day of the exam, Quercia say ‘read this story,’ then you know cause it can slow them down.” answer in one wrong spot — then engageny.org. Arts exam. ing passages, short-response ques- advises that students eat a healthy you’re going to have characters, set- As far as answering the multiple- the whole test is wrong. It’s impor- Allison Plitt is an English Language “This is the second real year for tions, and one extended-response breakfast. “If students eat any sug- tings, problems, and solutions.” choice questions, Quercia encour- tant that students put their multiple- Art writer who lives in Queens with the Common Core Exam because question. ary foods or drinks for breakfast, Another tip Quercia tells her stu- ages students to use process of elim- choice answers on the answer sheet her husband and young daughter. She the first year is really transitional,” Students in grades five through then they get tired in the middle of dents is to preview the question be- ination. Encouraging students to go right away.” is a frequent contributor to New York she observed. eight will have an hour and a half the exam,” she observed. fore reading the passage. back to the passage to find the an- In regards to leaving answers Parenting.

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 7 Dos & don’ts at the doctor’s office

By Dr. Matthew weissMan can quickly become confusing. So, the HPV vaccine, which helps pro- what should parents always do? tect children from human papil- s every parent knows, chil- Never do? Be cautious about? lomavirus — a virus associated dren, especially younger As an internist, pediatrician, and with multiple types of cancer. It’s A children, spend a lot of time a father of three, I’ve seen health- recommended for all children and at the doctor’s office. Whether it’s care in a lot of different forms. young adults between the ages of for a check-up or a sick visit, it Here’s my advice on what parents 9 and 26, and children need to get seems like you and your child are should stick to and what they three doses over the course of six in and out of the doctor’s office on should question or avoid: months. I highly recommend that a regular basis. you add this to your child’s list of Your child’s routine doctor visit Do this: vaccinations. (You may want to up- is the time to check up on growth Get vaccinated. It is important date your own vaccines, including and development, get up-to-date to vaccinate young children and hepatitis A and B, influenza, teta- on vaccines, and raise any health- adolescents from potentially life- nus, and pertussis.) related questions or concerns. But, threatening diseases. Schools re- ask for the flu shot. Younger with all the information out there quire certain vaccinations for at- children are at the top of the list, and different options for different tendance, and that’s a great thing.* along with the elderly, for high risk tests, a visit to the doctor’s office You may have recently heard about of hospitalization from the flu. The

8 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Center for Disease Control reports child is showing potential symp- that approximately 20,000 chil- toms of a urinary tract infection — dren under the age of 5 are hos- such as pain while urinating, the pitalized with the flu every year. frequent urge to urinate without The New York City Department urination, or a fever or abdominal of Education now requires the flu pain, or has particular family or shot for all children, so be sure to personal risk factors — there is get your child vaccinated. The flu likely no need for a urine test. shot is never 100 percent effec- Annual tuberculosis test. Tu- tive, but you should still get it 100 berculosis has become less com- percent of the time. Most healthy mon with time, and most children children over age 2 can get a nasal are at very low risk of having the spray flu vaccine, so needles are infection. A child’s risk for devel- not even required. oping it is heightened if she has Find out Body Mass Index HIV or another condition that (BMI). This simple number that leads to a weakened immune sys- measures body fat based on tem, if she lives with an adult height, weight, age, and gender with tuberculosis, and if she was will reveal whether or not your born in or is visiting a country child is at a healthy weight. If where the infection is prevalent. your child’s Body Mass Index falls Tuberculosis testing (through a into the “overweight” or “obese” skin test or blood test) should category, she is at greater overall be reserved for those at highest risk for high blood pressure, high risk. cholesterol, breathing problems, EKG or chest X-ray. Radiation and serious health problems as exposure is linked to increased she gets older. risk of cancer, so it is important to Check up on vision and hear- limit the amount of X-rays a child ing. Medical researchers have es- receives to only what is neces- timated that one in eight Ameri- sary. While the risk from a single cans over the age of 12 have some X-ray is low, cumulative radiation degree of hearing loss in both exposure should be avoided. If ears, and approximately 12 million your child has not demonstrated adults in the US who are in need any risk factors associated with of vision correction are not using heart problems or heartbeat ir- any. It’s important to screen chil- regularity, a routine EKG is not dren regularly for hearing and vi- necessary or recommended. In sion impairment, as problems can general, unnecessary screening come to the surface from early tests can drive up medical costs on. and lead to more invasive testing Talk with your child’s doctor down the road. about developmental milestones Finding out your blood type. — and get anticipatory guidance. For many children, this is part You need to make sure that your of the birth and vaccine record. child is developing at the proper If not, there is generally no need rate. And, since young children to do a blood test just because g row so quick ly, they should be v is - someone “wants to know.” Save iting the doctor much more often your child the blood draw and she during their first few years, where can find out her blood type if and someone can assess whether they when it really matters. are meeting their milestones. After that, a child should see the doctor For more information: at least once annually, not just to • N e w York State Immunization check her development, but also requirements chart: www.health. to talk about what to expect over ny.gov/publications/2370.pdf the coming year, and how to best • Fo r information on what vac- prepare. cines are required or recommended for school children by New York Skip this: State, visit www.health.ny.gov/pre- Annual blood test. Healthy vention/immunization/childhood_ children typically do not require a and_adolescent.htm regular blood test, as long as they • Fo r other avoidable tests for maintain a balanced and nutrient- children, check out www.choos- rich diet. An exception should be ingwisely.org/doctor-patient-lists/ made for children with certain american-academy-of-pediatrics/ risk factors such as a personal or family history of medical prob- Dr. Matthew Weissman is the chief lems or deficiencies. medical officer at Community Health- Annual urine test. Unless a care Network.

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 9 Under their skin By Jamie LoBer tion of puberty when the body is pro- ple usually start with over-the-coun- When acne ducing increased levels of hormones ter medications for mild acne. ccording to the American called androgens, which in turn “I suggest something that contains is spotted, Academy of Pediatrics, acne cause increased production of oily benzoyl peroxide, which helps pre- A is one of the most common sebum and increased blockage of vent the formation of acne pimples, skin conditions in children and ado- the oil glands facilitating the growth or salicylic acid, which helps open these tips lescents. We all remember the feel- of acne bacteria,” said Orlow. up the clogged pores,” said Orlow. ing of embarrassment and self-con- When the oil gets trapped, you If over-the-counter treatments can help sciousness that comes with a pimple have acne inflammation. don’t seem to work, make an ap- — and we wish it would clear up over “Some individuals are more sus- pointment with a dermatologist. Pre- night. But the American Academy ceptible to this problem and that is pare for your appointment by mak- of Pediatrics said that it can take why some have worse acne than oth- ing a list of “everything you used three to six weeks or longer to see a ers,” said Orlow. before, and try to recall what worked change, and 12 weeks for maximum Remind your child that nobody is and what did not,” said Orlow. improvement. However, with time to blame for the acne. Be an active participant in your and intervention from a dermatolo- “It has little if anything to do with healthcare. gist, your child’s skin can improve. cleanliness, and you cannot scrub it “Do not be afraid to ask questions “We wish that patients realized that away,” said Orlow. Some kids are at like how much to put on, exactly how we are generally going to treat acne higher risk than others. to use the medications, and if some- rather than cure it and that it takes “In women, irregular periods, ex- thing seems so impractical that you time to do so,” said Dr. Seth Orlow, cess facial hair, and obesity may be cannot make it work, let your doc- chairman and professor at the Ronald linked to acne,” said Orlow. Time is tor know rather than just not using O. Perelman Department of Dermatol- the best medicine. it,” said Orlow. Topical retinoids are ogy at NYU Langone Medical Center. “Red marks that are left as in- often prescribed to help, or, oral an- “Even the most effective treatments flamed acne lesions go away with tibiotics may be given for moderate work slowly, so you need to stick with continued treatment, so please do to severe cases. them to see the benefits.” not pick at your acne lesions be- Patients failing to comply with Acne can be part of growth and cause we want to avoid scarring, and treatment regimens are one of the development. not foster it,” said Orlow. biggest obstacles that dermatolo- “Adolescent acne is a skin condi- When it comes to treatment, peo- gists face. “Too often, patients become frus- trated with slow progress, and as a result, lose interest in following rec- ommendations,” said Orlow. While there are always new rem- edies, the idea behind treatment is the same as it was years ago. “The focus is on three key factors: preventing dead skin cells from blocking the oil glands, reducing excessive oil production, and reducing acne-causing bacteria,” said Orlow. While most over-the-counter medications take care of skin cell shed- ding and acne bacteria, they do not all attack the excessive oil production. Finding a doctor that you trust can make a difference as well. “Board-certified dermatologists are well-trained to treat even the most severe acne, but you need a doctor with whom you feel comfortable and who can serve as both quarterback and cheerleader simul- taneously,” said Orlow. Jamie Lober, author of Pink Power (www.getpinkpower.com), is dedicated to providing information on women’s and pediatric health topics. She can be reached at [email protected]. © 2013 Jamie Lober

10 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 WE ARE EXPERIENCED MATH SPECIALISTS WEWE ARE ARE EXPERIENCED EXPERIENCED MATH MATH WESPECIALISTSSPECIALISTS TEACH ALL LEVELS OF MATH ABILITY WEWE TEACH TEACH ALL ALL LEVELS LEVELS OF OF PROVENMATHMATH ABILITY RESULTSABILITY Mathnasium of Bay Ridge 7409 3rd Ave.PROVENPROVEN • Brooklyn, RESULTSNY RESULTS 11209 • (347) 443-9728 www.mathnasium.com/bayridge MATHNASIUMMATHNASIUM of of Bensonhurst Bensonhurst Mathnasium of Bensonhurst 68066806 20th 20th Avenue Avenue • Brooklyn,• Brooklyn, NY NY 11204 11204 6806 20th Ave. • Brooklyn, NY 11204 (347)(347) (347)7-MATH-11 7-MATH-11 7-MATH-11 • • (347)• (347)(347) 762-8411762-8411 762-8411 www.mathnasium.com/bensonhurstwww.mathnasium.com/bensonhurstwww.mathnasium.com/bensonhurst

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 11 Open communication By Carolyn WaterBury- to subscribe to the misguided no- vulnerable is that we give other peo- Actions speak tieman tion that if someone really loves you, ple the power to determine our self they will automatically be able to worth. We forget that at the same louder than common complaint in cou- read your mind. time we are protecting ourselves ples and families is “we don’t We sabotage our communication, from pain and disappointment, we A communicate.” Whether it is and ultimately our relationships, in are also robbing ourselves of the words when between spouses or parents and so many ways. It is amazing how well opportunity for deeply satisfying re- children, the typical description is, “I we have learned to communicate lationships with our spouses, chil- families try to keep talking, begging for a response, poorly. One can only wonder what dren, relatives, and friends. and he just refuses to communicate would happen if we put as much en- Now that we know all behavior is with me!” There was a time when I ergy into learning to communicate communication, how can we com- understand would have accepted this statement effectively as we put into avoiding it. municate more effectively with our and assumed the uncommunicative Some of the practices that get in the children, and teach them to do the one another party just needed to be more com- way of effective communication are: same? Here are a few suggestions: municative. Then I realized that all Failure to match verbal and learn and model open, honest behavior, both verbal and nonver- nonverbal cues. Communication in- communication. Take the time and bal, is communication and conveys a volves more than just the words we make the effort to accurately identify message. So the issue is not whether speak (studies have actually shown your feelings before speaking. Are or not you’re communicating, but that we pay the least amount of at- you really mad, or are you actually what you are communicating and tention to the words). It includes hurt or disappointed? Are you really how well you are communicating it. tone of voice, facial expressions, and angry, or are you actually scared, When people experience others body language. When the cues from embarrassed, or exhausted? You are as not communicating with them, these don’t match, the likelihood much more likely to get the response it is often because the receiver is of miscommunication is significantly you desire if you are honest about not responding in the manner that increased. how you feel. the sender desired, so the sender the filters we are listening Be sure the message you are assumes the receiver didn’t “hear” through. Perhaps you weren’t aware sending is the one intended. At- the message. Some individuals as- that there are tiny, invisible — and tempt to match your words with a sume that if the receiver doesn’t yes, metaphorical — filters in our tone of voice, facial expressions, and agree with the message, the receiver ears. They begin developing at birth body language that clarify (rather must not have heard or understood and are shaped by the significant than confuse) the message you are correctly. These people tend to con- communications we participate trying to convey. Tacking on the fuse lack of agreement with mis- in as children. These filters deter- phrase, “I love you,” after a scathing understanding. The confusion may mine how we hear the messages comment or while focused on a com- be intensified if the receiver does others send. Sometimes they create puter screen doesn’t feel like love to not know how to effectively express static that interferes with messages the receiver. For words to mean any- their disagreement. so that we hear criticism, threats, thing, actions have to match them. Then there are those individu- doubt, mistrust, or personal attacks Check your filters and replace als who send incomplete or hidden whether or not any was intended. accordingly. If you have faulty fil- messages that are supposed to be Our filters tend to reflect our level of ters, do something about it. Clean decoded by the receiver who may self-esteem. them out and replace them with not even realize a message has been our emotional vulnerability. filters that allow you to listen freely sent. These message senders tend One of the primary reasons we feel and keep your sense of self-worth

12 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 intact. Remember, the way others Take the time to consider what you want your I’m about to say?” You might want to communicate with you says more find a different way to say it. about them than about you. Be sure words to accomplish before delivering a reply. Our We can either encourage or dis- the way you communicate with oth- courage our children’s enthusiasm, ers reflects the kind of person you communication must convince our children that we curiosity, and willingness to com- are, or perhaps, the kind of person care enough to listen and respond thoughtfully. municate with us by the way we lis- you want to be. ten and the things we say. Since the Be quick to listen, slow to speak. relationship we establish with our Listen with your eyes as well as your ing, questioning, evaluating, and ad- For every complaint you have children is the foundation for every ears. (Remember: listening does not vising may be done with the best of about a child, find five things you other relationship they will ever mean approval, acceptance, or auto- intentions, these tactics tend to di- appreciate about him. Be sure you have, the model for communication matic permission. It just means you minish rather than enhance commu- are doing as good a job expressing we provide has implications for their are listening.) Listen for the feelings nication. If we expect compliance, the latter as the former. It’s easier relationships with their peers, their behind the words and behavior, the cooperation, honesty, and respect to comply with, “Thank you for re- spouses, and eventually, their chil- feelings that are motivating the per- from our children, they are much membering to put your dishes in the dren. If we can’t not communicate, son to speak and behave in the way more likely to exhibit these when we dishwasher.” “I really appreciate you why not invest the time and effort you are observing. Restate what you communicate clearly, consistently, getting right in on your homework.” necessary to do it well? Talk may be think you heard them say and check honestly, and respectfully with “When you finish, would you please cheap, but effective communication for accuracy before formulating a them. I know I respond much more pick up the dirty clothes in your is priceless! response. Take the time to consider favorably to someone who speaks to room and put them in the hamper? Carolyn Waterbury-Tieman has de- what you want your words to accom- me in this manner. How about you? I need to do laundry,” than “Your grees in Child Development, Family plish before delivering a reply. Our Use open-ended questions. In- room is a mess,” “You are such a Studies, and Marriage and Family Ther- communication must convince our stead of asking, “Did you have a good slob,” or “Get in there and pick up apy. Waterbury-Tieman has been mar- children that we care enough to lis- day?” ask “What was good about your dirty clothes this minute!” ried for 29 years and has two sons. She ten and respond thoughtfully. your day?” The former requires a The next time you find yourself spent 15 years in various agencies and Talk “with” rather than “at” simple yes or no response. The latter about to let them “have it” or give clinics as a family therapist and parent your children. While nagging, criti- is an invitation to become engaged in them a piece of your mind, ask your- educator. To contact her, e-mail paren- cizing, cajoling, threatening, lectur- meaningful conversation. self, “How would I respond to what [email protected].

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 13 How to be a better cheerleader for your young athlete

By Denise yearian kids and make sure he is in a safe en- tant to have proper nutrition and hy- What mom vironment and is being instructed in dration. An appropriate diet includes hildren who participate in appropriate ways — that the coaches getting adequate complex carbohy- and dad sports programs can maxi- aren’t too tough on him and are giv- drates, a lean protein source, and C mize their potential physi- ing lots of positive reinforcement. plenty of fruits and vegetables. Dur- can do to cally, mentally, emotionally, and so- Volunteer to help. One of the best ing dinner, your child’s plate should cially. But it doesn’t just happen. ways to know your child’s coaches is have 50 percent fruits and vegeta- Although good coaching and league to volunteer. Ask if the team needs bles, 25 percent whole grains, and support their administration are important, noth- an assistant coach or administra- 25 percent protein. Think ahead on ing can replace knowledgeable, in- tor, offer to spearhead a fund-raising how you can provide healthy food kids’ athletic terested, and supportive parents. So event, or sign up to bring snacks for options in the car. Also, make sure how can moms and dads make the the kids after the game. Or volunteer your child is staying hydrated. If the endeavors most of their athletic endeavors? to be the team journalist. Bring your team isn’t taking a water break dur- Here are 10 tips: camera and take pictures of the kids ing practice, speak up. recognize game rules. The more at practices and games. Then create Live it out. Be a good role model you know about the sport your child an online photo album for the entire for your kids, so your words and is playing, the calmer and more at team. This can encourage communi- actions align. Workout on a regular ease you will be. Some rules for a cation and unity among team mem- basis and eat healthy, and encour- given sport may have been modified bers, their families, and coaches. age your kids to do the same. When due to age and developmental level. Communicate a life lesson. Com- you are in the stands, keep a posi- So when you sit on the sidelines, it munication is a key role in sports tive attitude and cheer everyone on, will help you know why a call was or parenting, especially when it comes even the other team if it has made a wasn’t made. to talking with your children about good play. assess developmental mile- life lessons such as winning well, Be a good cheerleader. Make it stones. Be aware of the developmen- dealing with defeat, cooperation, to as many games and practices as tal milestones for the activity, so you perseverance and the like. For ex- you can, offer encouragement and can ascertain if your child is physi- ample, talk about how players have support, and look for little ways to cally and mentally ready to take on to work together to protect the goal, let your child know you are his great- the sport (see below). and how it’s important to pass the est fan. After weekend game days, assist with goal setting. Help ball, particularly if another player is do something special — get a bite to your child set realistic goals for him- near the goal. Also, discuss the need eat, take in a movie, or go swimming. self. Just make sure they are goals to be patient with everyone, because In everything, let him know you are he can own for himself. The more we all make mistakes. his biggest fan. personal goals he sets and achieves, Listen up. Listen to your child’s the more successful he will be and frustrations and excitements. Some- Developmental the more fun he will have. times he doesn’t want you to solve milestones for Collaborate with the coach. his problem, he just needs you to children in sports Coaches may be a good source for listen. Preschool. Many children at this providing drill pointers, but collabo- Maintain proper nutrition. For age are beginning to get involved in rating with them has even greater children who are involved in rigor- organized sports. To see if your child value. Know who’s coaching your ous athletics, it is particularly impor- is ready, assess his basic skills such

14 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 coordination and have a better concept of team effort. This is also a time when relative age factor comes into play and those who mature physically and mentally may seem to have an advantage. If not handled properly, it may put extra pressure on the mature child to perform, which could lead to burnout. Children who mature later may have to work harder on skill development and may not initially get their coaches’ attention, but given time and encouragement they often catch up with their counterparts. Because children mature at different rates, it is important to continue to emphasize the process, not the results, and to praise effort instead of outcome. This is especially important as competition elevates. Look for programs that adhere to this philosophy and make sure the entire team has an opportunity to participate in play, regardless of skill level. Middle school. This is a time when children are beginning to master skills and techniques. This can also be a time when league politics, controlling parents, and abusive coaches may dominate an activity, though it happens earlier. If the child feels as if he has lost control over his activity or is being pressured by others, he may be in danger of burnout. Kids at this age are better able to understand and handle the pressure of competition, but performance and self-esteem issues are closely tied now and can affect how youth feel about themselves in other facets of life. They may also need encouragement and information to deal with the awkwardness of changing bodies and minds.

Resources for parents Books: “Home Team Advantage: The Crit- ical Role of Mothers in Youth Sports” by Brooke de Lenche “How to Win at Sports Parenting: Maximizing the Sports Experience for you and your Child” by Jim and Janet Sundberg “101 Ways to be a Terrific Sports Parent: Making Athletics a Positive as running, throwing, and tracking velopment and emphasize fun over tion. Ask him and he will more than Experience for Your Child” by Joel objects in motion. Also consider competition. likely say to have fun, be with his Fish and Susan Magee his attention span. Is he focused Early elementary. By now, most friends, and learn a new skill. Make enough to learn from group instruc- children have had at least one expe- sure this philosophy lines up with Websites: www.sportsparenting. tion? Most children aren’t ready to rience with an organized sport. The your child’s coach and league’s in- org, www.momsteam.com, www. participate in organized sports until emphasis should continue to be on struction. Let him sample different nays.org they are around 4 or 5. Even then, skill development and having fun, sports activities until he finds one practices should be short and allow not on competition. This is a good he truly enjoys. Denise Yearian is the former editor time for free play. Programs should time to analyze what you want your Late elementary. At this age, chil- of two parenting magazines and the focus on the fundamentals of skill de- child to get out of sports participa- dren are beginning to get a grip on mother of three children.

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 15 Advice A solid foundation for better behavior n the midst of a crisis, we are all ready to ask for help, jump- I ing in with two feet to the clos- Behavior est resource to get out of the crisis as quickly as possible. Behaviorally, & Beyond there are lots of quick fixes to get Dr. Marcie Beigel out of crisis behavior. To truly avoid those situations in the first place, however, you need to jump in with two feet to change behavior during the good times. Positive behavior from your child does not happen without a solid foundation. Challenging behaviors will not transform without putting in effort throughout the entire day. The trick to creating a solid behavioral foundation has two parts: consistency and focusing on the small stuff. Consistency is important for lots of reasons! Let’s focus on how consistency helps change a sassy kid into an angel. To be consistent, you have to think of how you want to respond before the situation occurs. You need a plan. It does not have to be a big, elaborate or written plan, although writing it down is helpful. Simply knowing what you will do and say each time your kiddo has a specific behavior will change the entire dynamic. Being prepared leads to less of an emotion in your response, a lovely afternoon, and everyone don’t expect them to understand. which is great! is happy and getting along. Your What you can teach them to under- How you decide to respond is not daughter politely asks for candy. You stand is that you are looking out for as important as the repetition of want nothing more than to say “yes”! their best interest. You teach them your response each time she, let’s Also, you’re worried: what if saying this by being consistent with your say, asks for candy. The consistency “no” ruins the nice afternoon? Even word and rules. The small moments in your response also means that in this tempting moment, please, when you remain consistent are so you won’t change your mind based be consistent with the rule. This powerful! These are the moments on your child’s reaction (aka be- helps set the foundation for your when your child is aware and can un- havior). Quickly, she will learn that child knowing that you mean what derstand the message you provide. you are not changing your answer you say. During a crisis, it is hard for them to simply because she yells louder, ar- The second part of the solid foun- understand the underlying point. gues more, or throws herself on the dation is focusing on the small stuff. Set a solid foundation in your fam- floor. Your word will start to have a The small moments, like being at the ily, by being consistent through all strong meaning to her — and that is park and saying “no” to candy even moments, big and small! powerful! though you all wanted it, demon- Dr. Marcie Beigel is a behavioral Here is the trick: Be consistent strate to your small beings that the therapist based in Brooklyn. She has in the face of good behavior as well rules you have created are not ar- worked with thousands of families for as bad. bitrary. The structure you have cre- more than 15 years and has condensed Let’s say that the plan for candy ated is thoughtful and intentional. her observations into her practice and is that it is only allowed after din- Often, kids cannot yet understand programs. For more on her, visit www. ner. One day you’re at the park for the logic behind our decisions. So, BehaviorAndBeyond.net.

16 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Advice A solid foundation for better behavior n the midst of a crisis, we are all ready to ask for help, jump- I ing in with two feet to the clos- Behavior est resource to get out of the crisis as quickly as possible. Behaviorally, & Beyond there are lots of quick fixes to get Dr. Marcie Beigel out of crisis behavior. To truly avoid those situations in the first place, however, you need to jump in with two feet to change behavior during the good times. Positive behavior from your child does not happen without a solid foundation. Challenging behaviors will not transform without putting in effort throughout the entire day. The trick to creating a solid behavioral foundation has two parts: consistency and focusing on the small stuff. Consistency is important for lots of reasons! Let’s focus on how consistency helps change a sassy kid into an angel. To be consistent, you have to think of how you want to respond before the situation occurs. You need a plan. It does not have to be a big, elaborate or written plan, although writing it down is helpful. Simply knowing what you will do and say each time your kiddo has a specific behavior will change the entire dynamic. Being prepared leads to less of an emotion in your response, a lovely afternoon, and everyone don’t expect them to understand. which is great! is happy and getting along. Your What you can teach them to under- How you decide to respond is not daughter politely asks for candy. You stand is that you are looking out for as important as the repetition of want nothing more than to say “yes”! their best interest. You teach them your response each time she, let’s Also, you’re worried: what if saying this by being consistent with your say, asks for candy. The consistency “no” ruins the nice afternoon? Even word and rules. The small moments in your response also means that in this tempting moment, please, when you remain consistent are so you won’t change your mind based be consistent with the rule. This powerful! These are the moments on your child’s reaction (aka be- helps set the foundation for your when your child is aware and can un- havior). Quickly, she will learn that child knowing that you mean what derstand the message you provide. you are not changing your answer you say. During a crisis, it is hard for them to simply because she yells louder, ar- The second part of the solid foun- understand the underlying point. gues more, or throws herself on the dation is focusing on the small stuff. Set a solid foundation in your fam- floor. Your word will start to have a The small moments, like being at the ily, by being consistent through all strong meaning to her — and that is park and saying “no” to candy even moments, big and small! powerful! though you all wanted it, demon- Dr. Marcie Beigel is a behavioral Here is the trick: Be consistent strate to your small beings that the therapist based in Brooklyn. She has in the face of good behavior as well rules you have created are not ar- worked with thousands of families for as bad. bitrary. The structure you have cre- more than 15 years and has condensed Let’s say that the plan for candy ated is thoughtful and intentional. her observations into her practice and is that it is only allowed after din- Often, kids cannot yet understand programs. For more on her, visit www. ner. One day you’re at the park for the logic behind our decisions. So, BehaviorAndBeyond.net.

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 17 Derek Kouyoumjian Museum of Fine Arts / Leise Jones

local spot, or a chain, your family can dine out on a variety of cuisine from Boston and Cambridge to the suburbs north, west, and south of the city. Family-friendly Overall, you can easily fill your days visiting a number of attractions and sites in Boston. Here’s a list of my favorite things to do in the city. Kid friendly of course!

Boston Children’s Museum [308 Congress St. at Sleeper Street, (617) 426–6500, www.bostonchildrens- Boston museum.org] By Shnieka L. JohnSon During the warmer months, the This museum is truly for the kids, Cradle of Liberty offers a range of boasting a multistory climbing struc- ne of the oldest cities in our outdoor recreation for the whole ture, art studios, and a hands-on country, Boston, has a rich family. There are many opportuni- construction zone. Highlights in- O history. Serving as a port ties for family fun, from fishing and clude a full-size replica of “Arthur and manufacturing hub, Boston was kayaking to whale watching. the Aardvark.” an integral part of the American If visiting in March, you can take Revolution. Many historic events, your family can participate in “Dine the Boston tea Party such as the Boston Massacre, the Out Boston,” and enjoy the many ship Museum Boston Tea Party, and the Battle of restaurants that the Hub has to [Congress Street Bridge between Bunker Hill, took place in the city. offer. The two-week event, which Dorchester Avenue and Harborwalk, Now the City on a Hill is a destina- provides an opportunity to expe- (617) 531–6241, www.bostonteaparty- tion for arts, sports, and American rience area restaurants at special ship.com] culture, with attractions suited for prices, happens twice a year and Boston Tea Party Ships and Mu- all ages. is sponsored by the Greater Boston seum will transport you and your For the sports fan Boston has a Convention and Visitors Bureau, in kids on an incredible journey back number of professional teams. The partnership with American Express. in time. You will feel a part of the fa- city is home to hockey’s Boston Bru- Participating restaurants offer prix- mous event that changed the course ins, basketball’s Boston Celtics, and fixe menus for lunch and dinner, at of American History. baseball’s Boston Red Sox and, of one of three price options: lunch course, the most-recently crowned for $15, $20, or $25 and dinner for Boston Pops Super Bowl champions, the New $28, $33, or $38 (please note that [301 Massachusetts Ave. between England Patriots, have their home, prices are per person and do not Huntington Avenue and St. Stephen Gillette Stadium, shortly outside include beverages, tax or gratuity). Street, (617) 266–1492, www.bso.org] the city. Whether it is a trendy restaurant, a The Boston Symphony Orchestra

18 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 was founded by Civil War veteran tic Avenue, (617) 973–5200, www. and musician Henry Lee Higginson. neaq.org It’s hard to believe that the orches- Give your children a real feel for tra gave its first concert in 1881. marine life and visit this aquarium. The organization performs in both There are engaging activities informal and informal setting and cluded in your admission to this hosts a series of family concerts. space, like exhibits that include touch tanks. For a fee, you can Faneuil Hall, schedule in-the-water animal en- An exciting choice in Preschool education! Quincy Market counters and behind-the-scene [4 S Market St. between Chatham tours. For those interested, the Your child will thrive in our nurturing play-based program. Street and S. Market Street, (617) aquarium also organizes whale- >LVɈLYHSS[OPZHUKTVYL! 523–1300, www.faneuilhallmarket- watching trips to Stellwagen Bank place.com] from April to October. • Curiculum for ages 2 through 5 More than 70 retailers occupy • Weekly yoga and music classes the 200,000 square feet of space at Public Art Walk at • Weekly swimming lessons at Eastern Athletic Club this mixed-use marketplace. Cus- the Mayor’s Office for Pre-K students tomers enjoy local shops, restau- of Arts, Tourism & rants, and are entertained by street Special Events • Exclusive art program with the Brooklyn Museum performers and musicians along [Boston City Hall Room 802, Con- • Afternoon Spanish class the cobblestone promenades. gress Street at North Street, (617) 635–3245, www.publicartboston. Freedom Trail Visitor com Schedule a tour now! For details: Information Center Artworks, both permanent and [139 Tremont St. between Cufflin temporary, from traditional to new Call: 718-623-1322 Street and Ricker Road, (617) 357– media are on display throughout Email: [email protected] 8300, www.thefreedomtrail.org] Boston. The public art pieces, Download the app and take the paintings, murals, statues, bas-re- kids to explore the 2.5 mile Free- liefs, sculptures, monuments, foun- UNION TEMPLE A Reform Jewish Congregation dom Trail, the brick-lined route that tains, arches, and other perma- 17 Eastern Parkway leads you to 16 historical sites. The nent structures offer meaningful Brooklyn, NY 11238 trail starts at the front door of the engagement with art throughout www.uniontemple.org Boston Common Visitors Center Boston’s neighborhoods. and ends at the USS Constitution in the Charlestown Navy Yard. Zoo New England, Your kids can further their ex- Franklin Park Zoo perience by doing a little research [1 Franklin Park Rd. at Columbia first and downloading the “Junior Road, (617) 541–LION, www.zoone-

Ranger” activities provided by the wengland.org National Park Service. A great tip The Commonwealth Zoologi- that I’ve received is to reverse the cal Corporation is the non-profit path and end at Boston Common. that operates Franklin Park Zoo in Boston and Stone Zoo in Stone- Museum of Fine Arts ham, MA. Franklin Park Zoo is the WINDMILL MONTESSORI SCHOOL [465 Huntington Ave. between larger of the two, a 72-acre site. Accredited Preschool, Elementary, JHS & Academic Summer Camp Museum Road and Forsyth Way, The zoo was founded in 1912 and A PEACEFUL PLACE TO LEARN SINCE 1941 (617) 267–9300, www.mfa.org with more than a century of ser- Proudly Celebrating 73 Years of Quality Education This museum holds nearly vice continues to be a destination 450,000 works of art and welcomes for families. Windmill’s environment encourages children to around a million visitors each year. • Learn Naturally At Their Own Pace Take your family to experience art Additional info: • Find And Develop Their Own Interests, And Open from ancient Egyptian to contem- Dine Out Boston, spring: March • Get The Individual Attention Needed To Thrive HOuses porary, special exhibitions, and in- 1–6, 9–13 Wed., March 4 novative educational programs. Greater Boston Bureau: www. CURRICULUM ADVANTAGES Thurs., April 16 bostonusa.com Montessori Method, French, Computer Skills, Wed., May 13 9–10:30 am Museum of Science American Express: www.ameri- Physical Education, Yoga, Music, Art [1 Science Park at Monsignor canexpress.com O’Brien Highway, (617) 723–2500, NPS Junior Ranger program: PLUS MORE www.mos.org www.nps.gov/bost/forkids/beaju- Small Class Size, Dedicated Staff, Outdoor Recreation, One of the world’s largest sci- niorranger.htm A/C Classrooms, Curriculum-based Trips, ence centers, the Museum of Sci- Freedom Trail App: www.the- After School Program (3:40-5:45pm) ence is the most attended cultural freedomtrail.org/book-tour/smart- institution in the Boston area. The phone.shtml Happy Learners and Happy Campers museum offers programming for all Shnieka Johnson is an education 718-375-7973 H 718-375-4277 ages as well as interactive exhibits. consultant and freelance writer. She is e-mail: [email protected] based in Manhattan where she resides website: www.windmontsch.org New England with her husband and son. Contact her Windmill is non-sectarian. Licensed by The New York City Department of Health Aquarium via her website: www.shniekajohnson. Affiliated with The American Montessori Society [1 Central Wharf at Old Atlan- com. 1317 Avenue T @ East 14th Street • Brooklyn, NY 11229

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 19 New York International Children’s Film Festival

By Shnieka L. JohnSon academy. Beautifully constructed, “Jellyfish eyes” – Takashi Mu- The country’s slow-motion dance sequences, rakami ather than just taking your and life-altering auditions provide Live action and animation, Japan. largest film kids to the movies, take them a pulse of drama throughout their In Japanese with English subtitles. R to experience a film festival journey, but the film is ultimately the Pop art superstar Takashi Mu- festival for just for them. The country’s largest story of their friendship, disappoint- rakami makes his feature film debut film festival for kids and teens hap- ments, victories, first loves, dreams, with a campy, genre-defying adven- pens right here in New York City. Es- and doubts. ture that mixes lo-fi Japanese di- kids and teens tablished in 1997 New York Interna- Recommended ages: 9 to adult saster movie, new kid-on-the-block tional Children’s Film Festival serves coming-of-age story, and Pokémon- is happening as an Oscar-qualifying event for live- “Belle and Sebastian” – nicolas style anime with a delirious abun- action and animated short films. The Vanier dance of wonderfully imagined magi- right here in four-week event takes place Feb. 27 Live action, France. In French with cal creatures. Setting Murukami’s to March 22, showcasing more than English subtitles. fantastical animated designs in an 100 films from around the world. A story of friendship, courage, otherwise live action film, “Jellyfish New York City Throughout the festival, there are and loyalty set against the jaw-drop- Eyes” tells the story of Masashi, a filmmaker question and answer ses- ping scenery and alpine panoramas young boy who moves to a sleepy sions, filmmaking workshops, and of the Haute Maurienne-Vanoise re- town in the Japanese countryside in audience voting. Best of all, it’s all gion of France. Sebastian lives with the wake of a natural disaster. kid friendly! his grandfather, César, in a vertig- Recommended ages: 9 to adult With more than 3,000 short film inous mountain village, where he entries, selected films are organized crosses paths with a giant and dirty “Landfillharmonic” – Brad all- by the following categories: Pyrenean Mountain Dog who the good and Graham Townsley • S h o r t s For Tots (Ages 3 to 6) locals have dubbed “the Beast” for Documentary, USA. In Spanish with • S h o r t Films One (Ages 5 to 10) allegedly killing their livestock. But English subtitles. • S h o r t Films Two (Ages 8 to 14) Sebastian sees something good in The world generates more than a • F l i c k e r Lounge: For Teens & the misunderstood canine and be- billion tons of garbage a year, much Adults Only (Ages 12 to adult) friends the animal, renaming her of it ending up in poor rural commu- • H e e b i e Jeebies: Spooky, Freaky “Belle.” Their budding friendship is nities like Cateura, Paraguay, where & Bizarre (Ages 10 to adult) put to the test when Nazis march more than 2,000 families survive by • G i r l s’ POV (Ages 10 to adult) into town looking to root out a band separating garbage for recycling. The festival ends with a fun, cul- of resistance fighters who are guid- When a teen music program there minating event, the Closing Night ing Jewish refugees to neighboring can’t afford new instruments, a gar- Celebration, where award winners Switzerland. bage picker named Cola fashions a are announced and there is a screen- Recommended ages: 7 to adult violin from an empty oil tin — thus ing of the “Best of the Fest” short inspiring the Recycled Orchestra. films. “hocus Pocus alfie atkins” – The film follows the young musicians The festival itself is a non-profit Torril kove as they reach even greater heights, organization that offers year-round Animation, Norway. In English. performing concerts in the US, Eu- engagements. If you have a future Academy Award-winning direc- rope, and Asia — even sharing the filmmaker on your hands, investi- tor Torill Kove’s first feature film is a stage with heavy metal super-group, gate the workshops for kids that refreshingly warm and intimate tale Metallica. take place during public school mid- based on beloved children’s book Recommended ages: 8 to adult winter and spring breaks as well as character Alfie Atkins. Seven-year- summer camps. old Alfie dreams of owning a dog, “Lou!” – Julien neel The 2015 Festival’s schedule of but his father insists that he is too Live action, France. In French with films, many of which your kids will small for such a big responsibility. English subtitles. surely enjoy, is detailed below. Undaunted, Alfie finds an unlikely Twelve-and-a-half-year-old Lou ally in George, a kindly magician lives alone with her absurdly im- “Ballet Boys” – kenneth elve- who performs tricks for the neigh- mature mother, Emma. Her mom bakk borhood kids and has just adopted has been in a funk lately, eating junk Documentary, Norway. In Norwe- a puppy of his own. Lovingly ani- food in her pajamas, playing video gian with English subtitles. mated with thoughtful, honest char- games, and generally behaving more “Ballet Boys” takes us through acter interactions, “Hocus Pocus” like a teen than her on-the-cusp-of- four years in the lives of three young offers an emotionally and visually adolescence daughter. But all this dancers. The only boy dancers in a rich cinema experience for audi- changes with arrival of the new bo- world of girls, they strive to get into ences of all ages. hemian neighbor, Richard, who ig- Norway’s most prestigious ballet Recommended ages: 3 to 8 nites her goofy mother’s romantic

20 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Netherlands, 1943. Best friends Tuur and Lambert spend their time dreaming up adventures and discov- New York International ering secret passages in the caves and forests that surround their close- knit village. Homemade wooden pis- tols serve as props in their playful war games, as they make light of the Children’s Film Festival conflict that is building all around them. When new girl Maartje enters their social circle, the boys’ friend- By Shnieka L. JohnSon academy. Beautifully constructed, “Jellyfish eyes” – Takashi Mu- ship faces a challenge typical of ado- The country’s slow-motion dance sequences, rakami lescence — and Lambert begins to ather than just taking your and life-altering auditions provide Live action and animation, Japan. feel more and more like the third largest film kids to the movies, take them a pulse of drama throughout their In Japanese with English subtitles. wheel. “Secrets of War,” with its lush R to experience a film festival journey, but the film is ultimately the Pop art superstar Takashi Mu- backdrops and strong emotional per- festival for just for them. The country’s largest story of their friendship, disappoint- rakami makes his feature film debut formances from three young leads, film festival for kids and teens hap- ments, victories, first loves, dreams, with a campy, genre-defying adven- expertly balances the universality of pens right here in New York City. Es- and doubts. ture that mixes lo-fi Japanese di- shifting young friendships with the kids and teens tablished in 1997 New York Interna- Recommended ages: 9 to adult saster movie, new kid-on-the-block moral complexity of war. tional Children’s Film Festival serves coming-of-age story, and Pokémon- Recommended ages: 9 to adult is happening as an Oscar-qualifying event for live- “Belle and Sebastian” – nicolas style anime with a delirious abun- action and animated short films. The Vanier dance of wonderfully imagined magi- “Wolfy, The Incredible Secret” right here in four-week event takes place Feb. 27 Live action, France. In French with cal creatures. Setting Murukami’s — Grégoire Solotareff and Eric to March 22, showcasing more than English subtitles. fantastical animated designs in an Omond 100 films from around the world. A story of friendship, courage, otherwise live action film, “Jellyfish Animation, Belgium/France. In New York City Throughout the festival, there are and loyalty set against the jaw-drop- Eyes” tells the story of Masashi, a (Above) A still from “Ballet Boys.” English. filmmaker question and answer ses- ping scenery and alpine panoramas young boy who moves to a sleepy (Left) “Mune” is a contestant in this Though they’re from opposite sions, filmmaking workshops, and of the Haute Maurienne-Vanoise re- town in the Japanese countryside in year’s festival. ends of the food chain, Wolfy and audience voting. Best of all, it’s all gion of France. Sebastian lives with the wake of a natural disaster. Tom (a wolf and rabbit, respectively) kid friendly! his grandfather, César, in a vertig- Recommended ages: 9 to adult the heir apparent is passed over, are best friends. Wolfy has always With more than 3,000 short film inous mountain village, where he and the title Guardian of the Moon believed he was an orphan, until one entries, selected films are organized crosses paths with a giant and dirty “Landfillharmonic” – Brad all- is bestowed on the waif-like Mune, a day a gypsy tells him that his mother by the following categories: Pyrenean Mountain Dog who the good and Graham Townsley small and frightened forest faun who is still alive in the distant dynasty • S h o r t s For Tots (Ages 3 to 6) locals have dubbed “the Beast” for Documentary, USA. In Spanish with seems wholly unprepared to take on of Wolfenberg, Land of the Wolves. • S h o r t Films One (Ages 5 to 10) allegedly killing their livestock. But English subtitles. such a weighty responsibility. Despite his fear, Tom agrees to ac- • S h o r t Films Two (Ages 8 to 14) Sebastian sees something good in The world generates more than a Recommended ages: 5 to adult company his friend as they venture • F l i c k e r Lounge: For Teens & the misunderstood canine and be- billion tons of garbage a year, much far from their peaceful countryside Adults Only (Ages 12 to adult) friends the animal, renaming her of it ending up in poor rural commu- “Satellite Girl And Milk Cow” – home. They arrive in the midst of • H e e b i e Jeebies: Spooky, Freaky “Belle.” Their budding friendship is nities like Cateura, Paraguay, where Chang Hyung-yun Carne Festival — a grand meeting & Bizarre (Ages 10 to adult) put to the test when Nazis march more than 2,000 families survive by Animation, South Korea. In Korean of the world’s most renowned carni- • G i r l s’ POV (Ages 10 to adult) into town looking to root out a band separating garbage for recycling. with English subtitles. vores — and Wolfy’s quest for self- The festival ends with a fun, cul- of resistance fighters who are guid- When a teen music program there Festival award-winning “Wolf discovery quickly turns into Tom’s minating event, the Closing Night ing Jewish refugees to neighboring can’t afford new instruments, a gar- Daddy” director Chang Hyung-yun quest for survival. This beautifully Celebration, where award winners Switzerland. bage picker named Cola fashions a has created a wholly original, ex- animated film is based on the wildly are announced and there is a screen- Recommended ages: 7 to adult violin from an empty oil tin — thus interests. Neel has turned the French colored backgrounds, and the com- uberantly outrageous, sci-fi love popular French children’s book se- ing of the “Best of the Fest” short inspiring the Recycled Orchestra. comic and animated TV series into ic’s traipsing storylines translated to story unlike anything before it. An ries “LouLou” from writer and direc- films. “hocus Pocus alfie atkins” – The film follows the young musicians a quirky, mom and daughter buddy the screen with just the right amount orbiting, out-of-commission female tor Grégoire Solotareff. The festival itself is a non-profit Torril kove as they reach even greater heights, movie, with vibrant and brilliantly of absurdity and humor. satellite picks up a lovelorn pop Recommended ages: 5 to 10 organization that offers year-round Animation, Norway. In English. performing concerts in the US, Eu- kitschy bubble-gum production de- Recommended ages: 5 to 10 song on its radio antenna and de- engagements. If you have a future Academy Award-winning direc- rope, and Asia — even sharing the sign and plenty of cringe-worthy, scends to Earth to try to discover Additional information: filmmaker on your hands, investi- tor Torill Kove’s first feature film is a stage with heavy metal super-group, awkward comedic situations. “Mune” (3D) – Alexandre He- who could be the source of such New York International Children’s gate the workshops for kids that refreshingly warm and intimate tale Metallica. Recommended ages: 8 to adult boyan and Benoît Phillippon heartfelt emotions. On the way, it Film Festival, Feb. 27–March 22. Sched- take place during public school mid- based on beloved children’s book Recommended ages: 8 to adult Animation, France. In English. is transformed into the titular Sat- ule: www.gkids.com winter and spring breaks as well as character Alfie Atkins. Seven-year- “Moomins On The Riviera” – A world of wonder, magic, and my- ellite Girl, complete with Astroboy- Locations: DGA Theater [110 W. 57th summer camps. old Alfie dreams of owning a dog, “Lou!” – Julien neel Xavier Picard thology is the setting in this sumptu- like rocket shoes and weapon-firing St., (212) 258–0800, www.dga.org] The 2015 Festival’s schedule of but his father insists that he is too Live action, France. In French with Animation, Finland/France. In Eng- ously animated CGI adventure about limbs, while the balladeer in ques- IFC Center [323 Sixth Avenue, (212) films, many of which your kids will small for such a big responsibility. English subtitles. lish. a land divided between the realms tion — a loser 20-something play- 924–7771, www.ifccenter.com] surely enjoy, is detailed below. Undaunted, Alfie finds an unlikely Twelve-and-a-half-year-old Lou Sixty years ago, when Finnish au- of day and night. As legend has it, ing at an open mic in a coffee shop Scholastic Theater [557 Broadway, ally in George, a kindly magician lives alone with her absurdly im- thor and illustrator Tove Jansson the first Guardian of the Sun threw a — meets the fate that befalls all (212) 343–6215, www.scholastic.com] “Ballet Boys” – kenneth elve- who performs tricks for the neigh- mature mother, Emma. Her mom launched the Moomin comic strip, harpoon into the cosmos and roped broken-hearted lovers: he is turned SVA Theatre [333 W. 23rd St., (212) bakk borhood kids and has just adopted has been in a funk lately, eating junk little did she know it would reach 20 the sun to bring light and warmth to into a farm animal (albeit one who 592–2980, svatheatre.com] Documentary, Norway. In Norwe- a puppy of his own. Lovingly ani- food in her pajamas, playing video million daily readers in more than 40 all of humanity. Then the Guardian can walk around in a poorly-fitting Village East Cinema [189 Second gian with English subtitles. mated with thoughtful, honest char- games, and generally behaving more countries. In celebration of her 100th of the Moon lured the moon to the human suit). Ave., (212) 529–6998, www.villageeast- “Ballet Boys” takes us through acter interactions, “Hocus Pocus” like a teen than her on-the-cusp-of- birthday, French director Xavier Land of Darkness to provide a bal- Recommended ages: 8 to adult cinema.com] four years in the lives of three young offers an emotionally and visually adolescence daughter. But all this Picard brings Jansson’s carefree and ance to the sun and supply the world • • • dancers. The only boy dancers in a rich cinema experience for audi- changes with arrival of the new bo- adventurous Moomin family to life, with dreams. At a momentous cere- “Secrets Of War” – Dennis Bots Shnieka Johnson is an education con- world of girls, they strive to get into ences of all ages. hemian neighbor, Richard, who ig- with delicately animated characters mony to appoint the two new guard- Live action, Netherlands. In Dutch sultant and freelance writer based in Norway’s most prestigious ballet Recommended ages: 3 to 8 nites her goofy mother’s romantic set within beautifully designed and ians, an accident seems to occur; with English subtitles. Manhattan.

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 21 Women A memorable March Making plans for a cold month with a hint of spring

can finally see the signs of spring location information when available. ahead. And boy, am I looking for- “The Opposite of Spoiled: Raising Kids I ward to “springing” ahead. What Who Are Grounded, Generous, and a cold winter we have had! I don’t Smart About Money” is available at know about you, but I am ready to www.amazon.com. pack the ski boots, jackets, gloves, Join the #DivaMomsBookClub at Fabulyss and hats away. Kumon, the world’s largest after- March is a very special month school math and reading program, Finds to me because — not only is it my for another #FabULyss event with Lyss stern birthday month — it’s also National Tova Klein, the director of the Bar- Women’s History Month. I know nard College for Toddler Develop- my boys are learning about this in ment and associate professor of school; however, it gives me a rea- Psychology. We will have a book son to open up a deeper conver- signing and question-and-answer sation with them about amazing, session with Klein about her amaz- historical women. To me, all of us ing book that is now in paperback, moms are making history! “How Toddlers Thrive.” She’s dis- Yes, March is still a very cold tilled these decades of experience month, and moms are always with parents and children ages 2 asking me for fun things to do to 5 into a book that gives you the close to the city. Recently, my tools you need to enjoy your inter- family visited Medieval Times in actions with your toddlers, and at New Jersey. As we drove up to the ships with the non-profit Russian- the same time, sow the seeds for a castle, I knew we were in for quite American School of Ballet, as well as lifetime of success. the experience. The unique combi- Krav Maga Center of America. Chil- Tova Klein book signing and Q & nation of a medieval banquet and dren get an introduction to every- A at the Midtown East Kumon Center thrilling jousts between knights on thing from science to art within the (962 First Ave. between E. 53rd and E. horseback captured the imagina- sprawling 15,000-square-foot space. 52nd streets in Midtown East, www.di- tion of all ages, especially that of my Your kids can learn Mandarin, chess, vamoms.com, www.howtoddlersthrive. boys and husband. Medieval Times yoga, and ballet, as well as many com). March 4, 6:30 to 8:30 pm. rsvp@ is an exciting, family-friendly dinner other amazing activities. DivaMoms.com attraction inspired by an 11th-cen- Evolution Enrichment Center [38 As the weather starts to get tury feast and tournament. Guests Delancey St. #2, between Forsyth and warmer, parents are always asking are served a four-course banquet Elridge streets on the Lower East Side, me about amazing sports programs (and, yes, you eat with your hands) (212) 375–9500, www.evolutionenrich- for their children. One that both of and cheer for one of six knights ment.com] my boys personally loves is the NY competing in the joust and other There’s a new book that’s tak- Sluggers, teaching baseball the right tests of skill. It’s a super fun experi- ing parents by storm: “The Oppo- way, that has the most #FabULyss af- ence and only eight miles outside of site of Spoiled: Raising Kids Who ter-school baseball programs. Every the city. Your kids will thank you for are Grounded, Generous and Smart Friday afternoon starting in April in taking them on this fun adventure. about Money” by Ron Lieber (per- Central Park children ages 5 to 8 will Medieval Times [149 Polito Ave. in sonal finance columnist for The New learn the game of baseball as they Lyndhurst, NJ, (866) 543–9637, www. York Times). This new #FabULyss teach them the proper throwing and medievaltimes.com] book explores how money smarts hitting mechanics, fielding positions, I always love to tell you about ex- can be a helpful tool in raising good catching, and base running. I prom- citing new openings around the city. kids. Parents everywhere are buzz- ise your boys will love this baseball I recently was introduced to the new ing about it. program! Best baseball coaches in preschool on the Lower East Side, Please join the #DivaMomsBook- New York City! Evolution Enrichment Center. Not Club on Tuesday, March 3 for this NY Sluggers. For more information, only is the Lower East Side one of very important book signing and call Coach Brett at (917) 301–4295 or the coolest neighborhoods to go out reading with Lieber. I promise that e-mail [email protected]. www.nyslug- in at night, the neighborhood has re- you will leave this event more knowl- gers.net. ally become very popular with fami- edgeable and feeling good about Have a #FabULyss March! I cannot lies. The brand-new school is geared starting conversations about money wait for the flowers to start blooming toward children ages 2 to 5. It has its with your children. in Central Park. Spring is one of my own enrichment program and after- Book Club meeting on March 3, from favorite seasons. school program for children up to 6:30 to 8:30 pm. [email protected] Lyss Stern is the founder of DivaLyss- age 14. It also has wonderful partner- and visit www.divamoms.com for more cious Moms (www.divamoms.com).

22 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 23 Parenting

Parents

helPing Dear Sharon, We have a 3-and-a-half Parents year old and are having Sharon C. PeterS, Ma some difficulty getting him to toilet train. Do you have any words of wisdom? Toilet-training tips Dear Parents, in the planning process. Encourag- port each other to stay calm and Strong-willed 3 year olds can make ing your child to help decorate a clear throughout the process. Al- toilet training challenging. Here are potty chair, select training pants, though difficult, parents who can some strategies that can help. or talk through other details that stick to their plan and stay calm in Before tackling toilet training, it is can help him feel part of the project the face of their child’s mistakes or important to sort out when children rather than the subject of someone upset usually are more effective. (and their parents) are ready for toi- else’s plan. It can also help to tell a child let training. Even when a child is a Concrete rewards can increase the ahead of time that the end of diapers little older than usual there may be chances of success as well. Parent is coming. Use a confident, calm, and underlying factors that need to be and child can create a rewards chart succinct tone to explain your ideas taken into consideration. If a child is together and choose the prize for to the child — he’ll be more likely having a hard time at school, getting completing the goal. If there have to believe that change is on the way. used to a recent move, adjusting to already been a series of failed at- Of course, children often complain if the birth of a new sibling, working tempts at toilet training it can help given advance warning, but having through complex developmental de- to offer small rewards for each ac- a chance to “get ready” and let off lays, or handling other challenges, complishment along the way rather steam beforehand can help the ac- then it might make sense to wait for than just working towards a “super tual process go well. an easier time to begin training. It is duper” prize when “accidents” are Toilet training is much harder to often wise to delay things if parents over. (Three-and-a-half year olds who do when everyone involved is tense are overwhelmed or busy as well. have avoided training for a while often or upset. It can be useful to get When you are ready to tackle train- need a “super duper” reward and mo- some especially exciting games or ing, find a relatively pressure-free tivator to lower their resistance.) toys to play with during the process. time to focus on the project (prob- Before starting, many parents The family can play together, take ably at least a week). Pick a period agree on a “plan of action” with their a break for toilet time, and then re- when it is possible that all adults in- partner. As every child has his own sume playing until the next break is volved can stay focused on the “mis- unique personality, the specifics of needed. sion” and able to avoid distractions plans may greatly vary. I know of Parents often inform their child’s — social occasions, work pressures, families who have found it useful to school of their efforts so that teach- extended family obligations, etc. have their child go pantless through ers can encourage and reinforce It can also help to involve children this period while others have vis- their efforts. An “all hands on deck” ited the bathroom every 30 minutes. approach can make a bigger impact. Sharon C. Peters is a mother and director of Parents helping Parents, Moms and dads should sort through Even if this is not the best time 669 President St., Brooklyn (718) 638–9444, www.PhPonline.org. an approach that could work for for your son to finish toilet training, I If you have a question about a challenge in your life (no issue is too big their little one. guarantee that he will eventually get or too small) e-mail it to Dear Sharon at [email protected]. Probably the most important part the hang of it, probably much sooner of any plan is an agreement to sup- than it feels to you right now.

24 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 HAPPINESS Is A Healthy Mouth Help Your Child Start The School Year JUNIOR DIVISION With A Healthy Smile. Healthy Smile... Healthy Children

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March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 25 HealtH Debating vaccines f your pediatrician sent you a letter that said if you didn’t follow I his vaccination schedule, your child could no longer be a patient, would that bother you? Or would it upset you more to know that your newborn was sitting next a family of children who weren’t vaccinated … HealtHy ever? The recent measles outbreak confirmed by the Health Department living has sent not only a flurry of angst Danielle Sullivan to an already overfilled and angry internet, but also poses real questions that parents and even doctors are mulling over. As with many hot parenting debates, there is no easy answer that will appease all groups. A couple of years ago, even before the current measles outbreak was top news, eight pediatricians at a Chicago pediatric office informed their patients by mail that they will “no longer see children whose parents refuse to follow the childhood immunization schedule developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics.” Dr. Scott Goldstein, one of the pediatricians who participated, ex- plained why: “All of the available research shows that the safest and most effective way to vaccinate children is on the schedule set by the CDC and AAP. To go against that schedule goes against proven scien- But the question to do so is not dren, so they are protected. If the tific research and puts patients who simple. Pediatricians are called to parent sitting next me chooses not do follow the schedule at risk.” care for the children, even the chil- to, that’s her business. I highly doubt “I would want my pediatrician to dren (or perhaps, especially the chil- the whole office will be infected just refuse unvaccinated patients. It is dren) whose parents have difficult from taking in patients that haven’t for the safety of all children in the views, or ill-fitted opinions. Pediatri- been vaccinated. I mean, think about practice,” says mother of two, and cian Dr. Sydney Spiesel discusses the how many people you encounter on Staten Island resident, Christina Co- difficulty of the situation in a recent the subway, or coffee shop, or plane. lombo. “If parents choose not to vac- Slate article: Can you safely say that everyone you cinate, then they will have to do the “On the one hand, we profoundly come into contact with has been vac- legwork of finding a doctor who will believe in the value and importance cinated?” take them despite them not following of vaccines. On the other hand, we Does your pediatrician mandate medical advice.” profoundly believe in the value and that you must follow the vaccination It seems that more pediatric of- importance of caring for all children schedule? Would you leave his prac- fices are following suit. In addition, who need us, and some of those tice if he did? Does it bother you to the Wall Street Journal reports that, children have parents who refuse to think your child is sitting next to an “In a study of Connecticut pediatri- vaccinate.” unvaccinated child? Have you ever cians published last year, some 30 Emily Patterson, who lives in the thought about it at all? percent of 133 doctors said they had West Village and is a mom to a Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, asked a family to leave their practice 2-year-old who has just finished up has worked as a writer and editor in the for vaccine refusal, and a recent his set of scheduled shots, says that parenting world for more than 10 years. survey of 909 Midwestern pediatri- she would not want to go to a pe- Sullivan also writes about pets and par- cians found that 21 percent reported diatrician that turned away children enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find Sul- discharging families for the same who need help. livan on her blogs, Just Write Mom and reason.” “I choose to vaccinate my chil- Some Puppy To Love.

26 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 saliva, the blister fluid, and feces. HealtH You are most contagious for the first week. Children can get it by: What to know about • Close contact, such as kissing, hugging, or sharing cups and eating utensils. • Coughing and sneezing. Debating vaccines • C o n t a c t with feces, for example when changing a diaper. f your pediatrician sent you a let- • C o n t a c t with blister fluid. ter that said if you didn’t follow hand, foot, and • Touching objects or surfaces I his vaccination schedule, your that have the virus on them. child could no longer be a patient, would that bother you? Or would it How long should upset you more to know that your your child stay home newborn was sitting next a family of from school? HealtHy children who weren’t vaccinated … Follow all fever rules — don’t send ever? The recent measles outbreak mouth disease them to school within 24 hours of confirmed by the Health Department the fever. living has sent not only a flurry of angst By AlexA BigwArfe children to have completely differ- Watch the blisters. If they have Danielle Sullivan to an already overfilled and angry This virus ent symptoms. oozing blisters that can’t be covered, internet, but also poses real ques- ot to be confused with hoof keep them home. tions that parents and even doctors is a pain for and mouth disease, a very What exactly is For little ones, keep them home are mulling over. As with many hot N nasty disease that affects hand, foot, and until it’s cleared up, if that’s pos- parenting debates, there is no easy cattle, hand, foot, and mouth is mouth disease? sible. There’s no need to infect other answer that will appease all groups. preschoolers a virus that your toddler or pre- Hand, foot, and mouth disease children. A couple of years ago, even be- schooler (and sometimes even is a highly contagious viral illness fore the current measles outbreak older children) may contract this most prevalent during the spring Treatment: was top news, eight pediatricians at spring. You’ll want to be on the and fall seasons. It usually affects It’s a virus, and, unfortunately, a Chicago pediatric office informed lookout for a variety of symptoms, infants and children younger than just has to run its course. However, their patients by mail that they will of which your child may experience 5 years of age. It has a wide variety the pain and discomfort can be “no longer see children whose par- some or all. Be prepared for your of symptoms, including fever, sore treated with over-the-counter, age- ents refuse to follow the childhood throat, vomiting, reduced ap- appropriate fever reducers and pain immunization schedule developed petite, sores, and red bumps. relievers. by the Centers for Disease Control The child may have a vari- Prevent dehydration with plenty and Prevention and the American ety or all symptoms, or may of fluids. Academy of Pediatrics.” carry and pass the virus with Ice cream, Jell-O, and Popsicles Dr. Scott Goldstein, one of the no symptoms at all. There is can soothe sore throats. pediatricians who participated, ex- currently no vaccine to pre- plained why: “All of the available vent it, and not much that Can it be prevented? research shows that the safest and can be done once the child To prevent the spread of hand, most effective way to vaccinate chil- has it, beyond keeping them foot, and mouth disease, follow the dren is on the schedule set by the comfortable and waiting it same protocol as you would for pre- CDC and AAP. To go against that out. venting flu or any other virus: schedule goes against proven scien- But the question to do so is not dren, so they are protected. If the • Wa sh hands frequently with tific research and puts patients who simple. Pediatricians are called to parent sitting next me chooses not How serious is it? warm, soapy water. do follow the schedule at risk.” care for the children, even the chil- to, that’s her business. I highly doubt It’s more gross than se- • Avoid contact with infected peo- “I would want my pediatrician to dren (or perhaps, especially the chil- the whole office will be infected just rious, and the itching can ple. refuse unvaccinated patients. It is dren) whose parents have difficult from taking in patients that haven’t be extremely irritating. It • Disinfect surfaces regularly if for the safety of all children in the views, or ill-fitted opinions. Pediatri- been vaccinated. I mean, think about can cause high fever, and a someone has been sick. practice,” says mother of two, and cian Dr. Sydney Spiesel discusses the how many people you encounter on large concern for many is the Staten Island resident, Christina Co- difficulty of the situation in a recent the subway, or coffee shop, or plane. child becoming dehydrated Will my child get this lombo. “If parents choose not to vac- Slate article: Can you safely say that everyone you and not eating if the sores in more than once? cinate, then they will have to do the “On the one hand, we profoundly come into contact with has been vac- their mouths and throat hurt Very generally speaking, once legwork of finding a doctor who will believe in the value and importance cinated?” too badly. (In rare cases, your child has had it, he should build take them despite them not following of vaccines. On the other hand, we Does your pediatrician mandate they can develop some very an immunity. medical advice.” profoundly believe in the value and that you must follow the vaccination scary, fatal complications — However, there are multiple It seems that more pediatric of- importance of caring for all children schedule? Would you leave his prac- like brain inflammation and strains, and it is possible that your fices are following suit. In addition, who need us, and some of those tice if he did? Does it bother you to polio-like diseases.) child could become ill again with a the Wall Street Journal reports that, children have parents who refuse to think your child is sitting next to an A week or two after the different strain. “In a study of Connecticut pediatri- vaccinate.” unvaccinated child? Have you ever virus is gone, your child may Visit the Centers for Disease Control cians published last year, some 30 Emily Patterson, who lives in the thought about it at all? lose his fingernails and toe- and Prevention, www.cdc.gov, for all percent of 133 doctors said they had West Village and is a mom to a Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, nails and may also have the you could possibly want to know about asked a family to leave their practice 2-year-old who has just finished up has worked as a writer and editor in the skin peel off of his hands hand, foot, and mouth disease. for vaccine refusal, and a recent his set of scheduled shots, says that parenting world for more than 10 years. and feet. Alexa Bigwarfe is the mother of three survey of 909 Midwestern pediatri- she would not want to go to a pe- Sullivan also writes about pets and par- small children. She has taken a special cians found that 21 percent reported diatrician that turned away children enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find Sul- How does it spread? interest in child, maternal, and newborn discharging families for the same who need help. livan on her blogs, Just Write Mom and It is highly contagious and health and writes regularly on these reason.” “I choose to vaccinate my chil- Some Puppy To Love. Symptoms include sores and red bumps. can be passed through mucus, topics.

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 27 A Beginning Charter School with Children Directory School Citizens of the World TECCS is a free public charter school A Free Public Charter School In YOUR Community! Charter School based on a progressive education model and guided by the highest ide- K-4 @ 241 Emerson Place, Brooklyn NY 11205 Williamsburg, Community School als of ethics, service, and social justice. 5-8 @ 114 Kosciuszko Street, Brooklyn NY 11216 District (CSD) 14 at JHS 126, 424 Leonard Street, Brooklyn, NY TECCS is a safe and caring commu- 718-384-1386 or www.cwc- nity where these ideals inform every williamsburg.org or Email: enroll. aspect of school life; where teachers NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS! [email protected] lead and collaborate with students Kindergarten - 8th Grade and Beyond! We build interactive, dynamic and joy- in a culture of rigorous academics and mutual respect; where analyti- ful classrooms in which critical think- Join our Lower School! grades K-4 ing and creativity thrive alongside high cal thinking and creativity are prized; • 25 students per class with two teachers • 2 Classes at each grade level standards and academic benchmarks, where children become individuals • Curriculum tailored to meet individual needs of every student and where students build the social of integrity, insight, autonomy – and • Fully inclusive program for students with special needs and emotional skills they will need to socially productive citizens, workers, and leader • Art, Music, P.E., or Technology Classes participate thoughtfully in our democ- • Frequent Field Labs - learning outside the classroom racy and in increasingly international International Charter settings. • Partnerships with Dance, Yoga, Swimming, Chess and Robotics School Diversity • Robust After-School enrichment programs 718-305-4199 or Email: info@icsnyc. • A commitment by the “Legacy Network” to support Our school provides students with org meaningful experiences in truly students from high school to university ICS is a public elementary school diverse learning communities – effec- opening in downtown Brooklyn this tive working models of the larger September. society students will join. The skills At ICS success means three things: a and cross-cultural understanding comprehensive, coherent, curriculum, developed in this environment will a strong focus on character and a help students effectively navigate student body reflective of our com- differences and become leaders in a munity. globalized society. This fall we will serve 155 kindergar- Community ten and 1st graders, and expand by We recognize the powerful opportu- one grade a year until we are a k-5 nity we have to unite our communities school. Families of children with learn- Join our Middle School! grades 5-8 around a common purpose: the suc- ing disabilities and for whom English cess of our children and the neighbor- Our Graduates attend these NYC Public HS is not their first language are encour- hood schools they attend. We aim aged to apply. & Independent Boarding/Day Schools! to build true school communities in Information about enrollment and which all members – students, teach- Brooklyn Latin; Bedford Academy; Benjamin Banneker; dates of parent information sessions ers, families, and community partners Medgar Evers College Prep; Urban Assembly for Law and Justice is available at www.icsnyc.org or con- – feel welcome to engage actively in Choate-Rosemary Hall; Little Red School House; Brooklyn Friends tact Ferrugia Sothonax, Director Of school life. • Small class size and collaborative team teaching Operations. • Nurturing Program with high academic standards Community Partnership La Cima Elementary • Field lessons-learning opportunities outside of the classroom Charter School Charter School • Robust After School Programs, Partnering with SONYC! 241 Emerson Place 718-399-3824 (Lower School) 800 Gates Ave, Brooklyn • A commitment by the “Legacy Network” to support 718-443-2136 or www. students from high school to university 114 Kosciusko Street 718-636-3904 (Middle School) lacimacharterschool.org or www.cpcsschool.org La Cima Elementary Charter School is Lower School Community Partnership Charter a New York State School of Character 241 Emerson Pl., Brooklyn, NY 11205 School, serving grades K-8, is a sup- located in Bedford-Stuyvesant. We earned the title in recognition of our Open House portive community that nurtures the talent of the future leaders of tomor- C.A.R.E. principles and commitment Tue., March 10 - 5:30pm • Thurs., March 12 - 9:30am row. Our rigorous academic program to creating change-makers in our teaches students to creatively solve communities. Our students learn Middle School complex problems and explore and through Art, Music, Spanish, Physical Education and a Community Garden 114 Kosciuszko St., 3 Fl., Brooklyn, NY 11216 develop their own special talents through learning opportunities in and partnership. Teachers also use an Tour Dates outside of the classroom. Our gradu- inter-disciplinary Common Core- Tue., March 17 - 8:30-9:30am • Sat., March 21 - 10-11am ates are well-rounded, engaged stu- aligned Humanities curriculum that dents who recognize the importance uses writing and literacy to introduce Open House of perseverance, collaboration and history and promote the building of Wednesday, March 25 - 5:45-6:30pm team work. analytical skills. Please, visit our website, come for an Visit www.cpcsschool.org and apply today! The Ethical Community Open House session, or schedule a For additional information, call: Lower School @ 718.399.3824 Charter School school tour to learn more about our and Middle School @ 718.636.3904 700 Park Avenue 3rd Floor scholars and staff!! 718-599-2176 or www.teccs-ny.org Continued on page 30 28 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Special Advertising Section Summit Academy Charter School

Summit Academy Charter School x Community 2 x Community OUR MISSION WHY SUMMIT ACADEMY 2 x Character Summit Academy Charter School WILL SUCCEED

E = MC Summit Academy Charter School bridges the gap will succeed because between aspirations and realities we have committed to a series by preparing of design elements, which, x Character when combined, have proven to result

= Mastery 6th through 12th grade scholars E = MC in outstanding academic performance. to gain acceptance to, excel in These include: and graduate from college • Family involvement by using three pillars of success: • More instructional time

= Mastery mastery of core subjects, • Fully integrated 6-12 instruction • Character development and advisories Excellence character building, • High expectations for academics and and community leadership. behavior College Matters Excellence

enrollCollege Matters your scholar today! SACS is accepting applications for 6th - 9th grade scholars.

For more information visit us at www.sacsny.org or call (718) 875-1403

Special Advertising Section March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 29 The Ethical Community Charter School - New York Charter School Self Control • Kindness • Hard Work • Cooperation • Empathy • Honesty Directory Interested in signing up for the 2015–16 school year? We are accepting applications for grades K-5 Continued from page 28 At uncommon Schools, we create Launch Expeditionary safe and supportive learning environ- Our School Learning Charter School ments. Our 21 schools across Brooklyn At TECCS, we believe in the ability of each child to reach his or her full consistently rank among the highest- 1580 Dean St, 3rd Floor academic potential and acquire critical thinking skills. We believe that the performing in the state because we 718-604-6910 or www. know all students have what it takes social and emotional development of every child is as important as the launchschool.org academic learning. We prioritize the development of ethical thinking and to go to college. We also know there’s Launch Expeditionary Learning behavior as well as creating a truly caring community where there is a sense no limit to learning, and we work to Charter School, serving Bed-Stuy/ of loyalty and belonging. These beliefs and priorities are at the foundation of joyfully grow our scholars’ curiosity, Crown Heights and surround- our school culture. They shape the thinking and actions of every member of character, and academic skills so that ing neighborhoods, is part of the our community and can be seen and felt in every classroom. they can be successful not only in the Expeditionary Learning (EL) network, classroom but in their communities • small class size • after school available for all grade levels a proven model implemented in 150 as well. • 2 teachers per class • service-learning opportunities for all students schools nationwide balancing academ- • dedicated ELL and Special Needs instructors • extended school day: 8AM–4PM ic rigor and character development uncommon Schools is a network of free charter public schools serv- • extended school year: 190 days • Spanish, music, physical education, and art through experiential, project-based ing grades K – 12. There is no cost • breakfast, lunch, and snack served daily • ethics education learning. Students participate in Learning Expeditions, long-term stud- to apply or attend an uncommon To apply please call 718-599-2176 or visit our website at www.teccs-ny.org or attend a school tour: ies of a real-world topics that engage School. Apply today online or in per- students and teach them critical life son at an uncommon School in your SCHOOL TOURS skills. Additionally, students present community! Wednesdays 9–10 am in three public presentations annually: Summit academy March 4th, March 11th, March 18th, March 25th Student-Led Conferences, a reflective Thursday 5:30–6:30 pm presentation by students to their par- Charter March 12th ents on their academic and character 27 Huntington Street progress; Exhibition night, a public 718-875-1403 or www.sacsny.com TECCS is co-located with PS 297 at presentation of student work; and Summit Academy brings the benefits 700 Park Avenue, 3rd Floor Presentations of Learning, an end-of- of rigorous scholarship to one of Brooklyn, NY 11206 year presentation of their learning to a Brooklyn’s most underserved com- panel of parents, peers, teachers, and munities. We provide scholars in community members. Students can Community School District 15 with a choose from a wide range of electives public education that addresses their and after-school activities to augment academic needs and delivers on the their core academic studies, and par- aspirations they and their families hold ticipate in a daily advisory that focuses for them. The school prepares schol- on developing character and life skills ars to reach grade level expectations through the lens of our Habits of and develop the skills, competencies, Heart and Mind. and character necessary for success in college. Our academic design culti- Uncommon Schools vates scholars through three venues: 718-363-5024 or www. our Academic Program, our Character uncommonschools.org/enrollnyc Development, and our Community Start your child on the path to college! Leadership Program.

Expeditionary Learning Charter School OPEN HOUSES Visit us and learn more! Please RSVP to one of our upcoming OPEN SCHOOL TOURS Open Houses to see our school and learn Thursday, March 12 more about La Cima: Thursday, March 26 9:30 – 11:30 am • Wednesday, March 10 at 8am CONTACT • Thursday, March 26 at 5:20pm FAMILY INFO SESSION Dai Jiménez Wednesday, March 18 Student Information Manager Or call to schedule a school tour 6:30 – 8:30 pm P (718) 443-2136 We are currently accepting applications RSVPs appreciated! Please call 800 Gates Ave, Brooklyn for Grades K-5. Preference is given to 718-604-6910 or sign up online lacimacharterschool.org District 16 residents. Application must be to let us know you’re coming. [email protected] received by April 1, 2015. www.launchschool.org • [email protected] • 718-604-6910 In 2015, La Cima Elementary Charter School was named a New York State School of Located in the PS 243 campus on 1580 Dean St, between Troy & Schenectady Aves. Character by the Academy for Character Education in honor of its C.A.R.E. principles. (B15 or B65 to Dean/Troy, or A/C/3/4 to Utica Ave.)

30 BROOKLYN FamiLY • March 2015 Special Advertising Section 2015–2016 Apply Now K, 1st, 2nd, & 3rd GrAde StudeNtS

CWC (718) 384-1386 Williamsburg pAreNt opeN HouSe March 19th 6:00–7:00pm

Apply online at www.cwc-williamsburg.org At Citizens of the World Williamsburg Charter School your child will receive: + A free progressive education within a diverse school setting; + Small class size where all students receive individualized attention; + Two certified teachers in every room; + Experienced teachers who hail from top private and charter school networks in New York City; + Art, music, dance, and yoga instruction for all students; + Integrated social-emotional learning throughout the school day; + After-school enrichment program until 5:45pm; + Pupil transportation provided through the NYC office of Pupil Transportation.

Citizens of the World Williamsburg Charter School We are located across the street from McCarren Park, 2 blocks from 424 Leonard Street, 3rd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11222 the G Train at Nassau, and Email: [email protected] 10 minutes from the L train at Lorimer.

A community school where all children gain the keys to success.

Enrolling students now for kindergarten

and 1st grade in September!

> Coherent and Rigorous Curriculum > Diverse Student Body > Convenient Downtown Location

Visit www.icsnyc.org or call 718-305-4199 to learn about tours and registration

Special Advertising Section March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 31 Parenting

Just write mom Danielle Sullivan

Congrats! It’s a ... Think parents no longer care about their baby’s sex?

onsider this: If you had no out the years, the same question cause many women choose to re- kids and could theoretically has been posed at least eight times tain their maiden names when mar- C only have one, would you and the answers remain relatively rying. Others simply want a son want a boy, a girl — or would the the same (and what does this say in because they want to raise a boy gender not even matter? 2015 about the value of women and who is like them, just as a woman Depending on how you an- the women’s movement?). might want a daughter, and that is swered, you might be surprised by I have two girls and a boy. Back understandable. the results of a recent Gallup poll when I was pregnant with my first Yet, I still can’t see a family truly that asked the same question. Or daughter, I immediately felt that I needing a son to arrive ahead of a you may not. didn’t care at all if the baby would daughter, or even instead of one. The Gallup polling agency re- be a boy or a girl. And I felt the My two older girls will teach my son cently asked 1,020 Americans same way with each subsequent how to be a caring man, and a sen- whether they’d prefer to have a girl pregnancy. The idea that gender sitive husband. They are the oldest or a boy if they could only choose would greatly impact the value of in our family and just as capable, one. the baby was absurd. My husband creative, and smart as a male child Forty percent said they would felt the same way; never feeling might be. And they can take care of want a boy, 28 percent said they pressured to have a son. themselves — and each other. would choose a girl, and the re- Even President Obama said him- Did you want a boy to be the first maining participants didn’t mind self that he is fully blessed with child in your family? Did the baby’s either way or weren’t exactly sure. his two girls and has no plans to gender even matter? Surprised? What may be even try for another to see if it might be Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, more startling is that back in 1941, a boy. Yet, I know many men who has worked as a writer and editor in the Americans who were asked a simi- not only want a son, but they want parenting world for more than 10 years. lar question had nearly the same a firstborn son to be the protec- Sullivan also writes about pets and par- results: 38 percent preferring a boy, tor and a daughter second. Some enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find Sul- 24 percent wanted a girl, and the say they want to carry on the fam- livan on her blogs, Just Write Mom and rest had no preference. Through- ily name, which is nonsensical be- Some Puppy To Love.

32 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Parenting :H¶UHOHDUQLQJVWHSE\VWHSDW«« Are you a mom :H¶UHOHDUQLQJVWHSE\VWHSDW«« who wants to make money? SchoolSchool Programs Programs 2-Year Old Toddler Tykes Class rr 2-Year Old Toddler Tykes Class rr 3-Year 3-Year Old Old Little Little Learners Learners Class Class Just write rr 4-Year 4-Year Old Old Preschool Preschool Pals Pals Class Class After School OPEN HOUSE mom After School FOR Danielle Sullivan ProgramsPrograms KindergartenKindergarten through through 5 th5 thgrade grade SUMMER & FALL 2015 ENROLLMENT

Wed., March 4, 2015 FullFull And And Half Half Da Dayy 6:30pm to 8:30pm ProgramsPrograms Av Availableailable Sun., April 19, 2015 SchoolSchool Session: Session: September September – –June June 10:00am to 12:00pm

245 86th86th Street Street Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY | |718-630-1000 718-630-1000 | steppingstones86.com | steppingstones86.com [email protected]@aol.com credit cards not accepted credit cards not accepted We want you to join our team. Dentistry for Adults Congrats! It’s a ... and Children Think parents no longer care about their baby’s sex? We are looking for a motivated candidate. Tracey H. Joseph, D.D.S., PLLC onsider this: If you had no out the years, the same question cause many women choose to re- 'ENTLE &RIENDLYAND.UTURING#AREFOR9OUR&AMILY kids and could theoretically has been posed at least eight times tain their maiden names when mar- No sales experience necessary, C only have one, would you and the answers remain relatively rying. Others simply want a son want a boy, a girl — or would the the same (and what does this say in because they want to raise a boy but a car and liking people s3CHOOL&ORMS s7HITE&ILLINGS gender not even matter? 2015 about the value of women and who is like them, just as a woman s%XTRACTIONS s3EALANTS Depending on how you an- the women’s movement?). might want a daughter, and that is swered, you might be surprised by I have two girls and a boy. Back understandable. is a must! s&LEXIBLE0ARTIALS s.IGHTGUARDS the results of a recent Gallup poll when I was pregnant with my first Yet, I still can’t see a family truly s$ENTURES s)MPLANTS that asked the same question. Or daughter, I immediately felt that I needing a son to arrive ahead of a you may not. didn’t care at all if the baby would daughter, or even instead of one. Full benefits, salary and The Gallup polling agency re- be a boy or a girl. And I felt the My two older girls will teach my son commission s4EETH7HITENING:OOM cently asked 1,020 Americans same way with each subsequent how to be a caring man, and a sen- whether they’d prefer to have a girl pregnancy. The idea that gender sitive husband. They are the oldest s3PECIAL!TTENTION4O.ERVOUS!ND!PPREHENSIVE0EOPLE or a boy if they could only choose would greatly impact the value of in our family and just as capable, s(OUR2OOT#ANAL4REATMENT one. the baby was absurd. My husband creative, and smart as a male child Forty percent said they would felt the same way; never feeling might be. And they can take care of New Ultramodern Facility Conveniently Located At want a boy, 28 percent said they pressured to have a son. themselves — and each other. &LATBUSH!VENUEs3UITE! would choose a girl, and the re- Even President Obama said him- Did you want a boy to be the first Email resumes to [email protected] maining participants didn’t mind self that he is fully blessed with child in your family? Did the baby’s or call Tina at 718-260-8336 Flat (Philip Howard Apartments) Digital either way or weren’t exactly sure. his two girls and has no plans to gender even matter? Screen TV Xrays & Surprised? What may be even try for another to see if it might be Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, 718-377-1319 Intraoral & Patient Camera more startling is that back in 1941, a boy. Yet, I know many men who has worked as a writer and editor in the Headset Americans who were asked a simi- not only want a son, but they want parenting world for more than 10 years. WWWBROOKLYNFAMILYDDSCOMW lar question had nearly the same a firstborn son to be the protec- Sullivan also writes about pets and par- WE SPEAK SPANISH results: 38 percent preferring a boy, tor and a daughter second. Some enting for Disney’s Babble.com. Find Sul- -OST-AJOR)NSURANCES !CCEPTED 24 percent wanted a girl, and the say they want to carry on the fam- livan on her blogs, Just Write Mom and rest had no preference. Through- ily name, which is nonsensical be- Some Puppy To Love.

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 33 HealtH

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

ally start to come in when a baby is 3 months old), the gums should be wiped twice a day — once after Baby teeth & breakfast and once after the last meal in the evening. The best way for a parent to do this is to wrap a two-inch square of gauze around big problems her index finger, then gently wipe the gum pads of the child’s mouth. If an infant is bottle-fed, pediatric The importance of kids’ oral health dentists suggest that the best kind of bottle to use is one fitted with A friend of my mother’s told us that due to decay — simply waiting for it a nipple that most closely mimics our infant’s dental health is crucial. But to fall out is not a solution. Whether the process of breast-feeding, which we always assumed that baby teeth a cavity is in a primary or permanent naturally exercises the muscles in are going to fall out anyway — it’s the tooth, it can lead to severe pain or the baby’s mouth that support the permanent teeth that will matter. Is even abscess — an infected pocket of primary teeth. Parents should avoid there any real reason why oral hygiene puss accumulating in the cavity and letting their child suck on an empty is truly important for babies and tod- spreading to the gums and nerve tis- milk or juice bottle as a pacifier, dlers? What steps should we take? sue. Pulling a baby tooth with a cav- because excessive exposure to the ity in it is not the answer either. Baby naturally occurring sugar in these n the surface, your assump- teeth fall out naturally when a per- drinks can dramatically increase an tion seems logical; in most manent tooth is ready to start grow- infant’s chances of tooth decay. O cases, children will have all ing in. Prematurely removing a baby Children should make their first 20 of their baby (primary) teeth by tooth leaves a gap towards which the trip to the dentist as they enter their the age of 3. By the age of 6 or so, other teeth can drift, misaligning the toddler years. By the time they have those teeth will start falling out natu- teeth in the rest of the mouth. all their primary teeth, they should rally to make way for the permanent These are just a few of the pitfalls be in the habit of regularly brushing teeth (a process that is generally of ignoring the dental hygiene nec- their teeth, using fluoride toothpaste, complete by the time a child reaches essary to maintain healthy primary with the assistance of a parent, until his teenage years.) Why prioritize teeth, but the good news is that they develop the dexterity to brush, oral health until the permanent teeth preventing these problems does not rinse, and spit on their own. come in? Unfortunately, that’s where require a parent to obtain a degree in Just because a child’s baby teeth logic ends. Baby teeth are especially dentistry. Here are some steps that are “temporary” does not mean that vulnerable to decay, since the enamel will go a long way toward avoiding improper oral hygiene cannot have that covers the exterior of the tooth is tooth decay and cavities in infants permanent effects. There’s no time soft when it first breaks through the and young toddlers. too early to start taking the steps gums. If a child gets a cavity — a hole To start, even before an infant that will prevent dental issues from that starts in the surface of a tooth has any teeth (the first teeth gener- occurring. 34 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Special Advertising Section cling a female whale in an effort to mate is usually seen once every 10 years. Nobody has ever seen the humpback whale actually mate, so A whale of a tale there are many unanswered ques- KIDS FIRST! FILM CRITIC tions surrounding this aspect of the marine mammals. If you enjoy seeing a documen- Ewan McGregor narrates with a tary movie that will educate, inspire sense of wonder that inspires us to and amaze you, then you will love want to know as much as possible MacGillivray Freeman’s “Humpback about the humpback whales. The Whales.” upbeat music throughout the movie peaks our interest and curiosity learned more about the hump- about these extraordinary creatures. back whale from “Humpback The film teaches us to admire I Whales” than if I had studied and appreciate the complexities this unit in school for a month! and sheer beauty of the humpback This 40-min- whales. We also see how a whale ute, large-format is rescued when it becomes entan- d o c u m e n t a r y gled in life-threatening fishing gear. on humpback This rescue requires a lot of skill whales tags and understanding of how to free along with lead- while experiencing their incredible ble net fishing,” in which they work the whale while the rescuers stay ing whale re- songs and underwater acrobatics. together to release bubbles and loud safe. We learn the important things searchers using One unique thing among hump- “feeding calls” to herd and trap her- we must ensure so that they do new methods to back males is the singing that they ring. This makes it easier for them not become extinct. We must never see what the whales do when no engage in. In fact, the recordings of to gulp down the herring or krill in again have a whaling industry, have one’s watching them. whale songs are what helped save large quantities — because they can safer fishing gear, less trash in the The documentary follows the the mammals from extinction as eat up to two tons of food a day. ocean and take precautions not to whales to the tropical kingdom of people became interested in the ani- My favorite part of the movie was have collisions between ships and Tonga, to summertime in Alaska mals who could make these beauti- seeing and learning about the differ- whales. and then to the warm waters of ful and unique sounds. ent researchers who have spent their I give this movie 5 out of 5 stars Hawaii. The audience has a chance The humpback whales do cooper- lives studying the humpback whales. and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. to follow the cetaceans’ migration, ative food gathering known as “bub- One scene showing the males cir- — Adam C., age 9

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March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 35 Parenting Fifty ways to spark your relationship

Dear Dr. Karyn, ply not enough! Just think about other’s lunch bags I’ll be honest, I really look forward when you were fully engaged with • Reminisce about fun times to reading your column each month, your partner. How did it change • G o on short holidays together Dear and what I love the most is that you your mood? Communication? Par- • Ta l k about everything give simple little ways for us as fami- enting? • F i g h t and make up (that is the Dr. Karyn lies, parents, and couples to recon- As a relationship expert for nearly fun part) Dr. Karyn GorDon nect! Each year, I set goals for myself 20 years (and being a wife myself for • B e a happy face for each other to and my husband to be closer, but as nearly 14), I see it! When we invest come home to the weeks go by in the new year, I find in our relationship (and it is truly • P i c k and choose your fights myself going back to old patterns. Do an emotional and time investment) • Sex, sex, and more sex you have any simple ideas for what — there are huge returns. We are • Ta l k and listen couples can do to refresh? Reboot? Re- more relaxed, patient, happier, lov- • Surprise gifts kindle? Any tips are appreciated! Life ing, productive, encouraging, play- • Fo r g i v e easily after a fight is so busy, so any simple suggestions ful, and overall the best version of • Help each other with chores would be great! ourselves! • G o out for coffee and date nights So how can we move from a “sur- (even if it’s just 20 minutes) hank you for your honesty, viving” relationship to a thriving • G i v e each other free time and yes, a lot of readers I’m one? My number one recommenda- • Retire together T sure can connect with what tion is to focus on small baby steps! • H av e the kids move out you are saying! Yes, relationships There are thousands of ways to • G o for long walks require work and time! The average start making progress, but here are • J o i n a club or sport together couple spends only four minutes of 50 suggestions compiled from doz- • S p e n d time with friends connecting each day — that’s sim- ens of men and women (from Twit- • Relax together (cuddling, watch- ter, Facebook, friends, and ing television) clients) summarizing what • Always speak kindly of each they have done to rekindle other (face-to-face) and behind each their relationship! other’s backs Enjoy! • H i r e a sitter, so you can enjoy a • M a ke family dinners to- quiet night together gether (and eat together) • D a i l y compliment • Never stop trying to woo • G e t back in shape after kids your partner • C o m m u n i c a te about day-to-day • D o n’ t stop dating. Set events aside a night • Ta k e care of yourself. (Look • Fa m i l y activities good) • Tr ip s • M a ke an effort with the in-laws • H av e a sense of humor • B e comfortable with the other • S p o n t a n e i t y with family doing their own things outings • B e honest and open, even though • Pl ay hockey together it may hurt • S u p p o r t each other in ev- • B e unplugged (without technol- erything ogy) • Sing along while cooking • P r a i s e dinner • H o l d hands • H av e fun together • B e curious with one another. • Laugh Dr. Karyn Gordon is one of North • S a c r i f i c e America’s leading relationship and par- • B e active as a family enting experts. She is a regular contribu- • O n e annual vacation with- tor to “Good Morning America,” founder out kids of dk Leadership, best-selling author of • G i v e each other time off “Dr. Karyn’s Guide To The Teen Years” to do your own hobbies (Harper Collins), and motivational • F u n (and sexy) text mes- speaker to a quarter of a million people. sages throughout the day Visit her at www.dkleadership.org and • P u t little notes in each on Twitter: @DrKarynGordon.

36 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Parenting Fifty ways to spark Be a petal pusher By Sarah yale note-taking. Ask the children to Turn on all of the lights to make it Celebrate share their findings with you on the sunny inside. Ask them to sway like ational Plant a Flower Day way home. flowers in the breeze while they sing a Plant A is this month! But Plant-a- 2. Buy some seeds to start now. favorite song together. Let them make your relationship N Flower-Day activities can Visit a garden center or the local dis- up a flower story to perform or have continue throughout March, adding count store’s garden section. Pick up them read flower poems aloud. Do Dear Dr. Karyn, ply not enough! Just think about other’s lunch bags Flower Day brightness and anticipation to an potting soil and plastic pots, or use some floral crafts and decorate some I’ll be honest, I really look forward when you were fully engaged with • Reminisce about fun times in-between time of the year. Chil- containers from your recycling bin. floral treats for added fun. Remember to reading your column each month, your partner. How did it change • G o on short holidays together dren will learn about and appreciate Follow seed packet instructions for to take lots of photos to share with Dear and what I love the most is that you your mood? Communication? Par- • Ta l k about everything every day our natural treasures, explore their starting plants indoors. Children can friends and family far away. give simple little ways for us as fami- enting? • F i g h t and make up (that is the creativity, develop feelings of ac- record the growth and development 9. Make “Spring Is Coming” cards Dr. Karyn lies, parents, and couples to recon- As a relationship expert for nearly fun part) complishment, make memories, and of the plants in their own hand-dec- with flower designs to send to the Dr. Karyn GorDon nect! Each year, I set goals for myself 20 years (and being a wife myself for • B e a happy face for each other to have fun. Since Plant a Flower Day orated flower journal. The journal relatives, to give to elderly neighbors, and my husband to be closer, but as nearly 14), I see it! When we invest come home to is March 12, here are 12 ways to cel- can be a store-bought notebook with or to a nursing home. the weeks go by in the new year, I find in our relationship (and it is truly • P i c k and choose your fights ebrate flowers and make March fun: cover artwork created by the kids. 10. Have the children pick out myself going back to old patterns. Do an emotional and time investment) • Sex, sex, and more sex 1. Take the kids to a greenhouse, Inside, they can make notes, draw books at the library about flowers you have any simple ideas for what — there are huge returns. We are • Ta l k and listen botanical garden, flower show, or pictures, attach seed packets, create and gardening. Encourage them to couples can do to refresh? Reboot? Re- more relaxed, patient, happier, lov- • Surprise gifts the floral department at the super- collages from seed catalog pages, design and color a garden or choose kindle? Any tips are appreciated! Life ing, productive, encouraging, play- • Fo r g i v e easily after a fight market. Encourage them to discover and more. flowers to plant after the last frost. is so busy, so any simple suggestions ful, and overall the best version of • Help each other with chores flower varieties and colors. Bring 3. Contact your state or local co- Find out when the last frost is in your would be great! ourselves! • G o out for coffee and date nights sketchbooks and pen- operative extension service (through area. Mark your calendar to start So how can we move from a “sur- (even if it’s just 20 minutes) cils for drawing and your state university) to learn about planting outdoors. The kids will look hank you for your honesty, viving” relationship to a thriving • G i v e each other free time local endangered species of wild- forward to it with excitement. and yes, a lot of readers I’m one? My number one recommenda- • Retire together flowers. Find out when they flower 11. Take a walk through your T sure can connect with what tion is to focus on small baby steps! • H av e the kids move out and where you can go to see them at neighborhood to see if any flower you are saying! Yes, relationships There are thousands of ways to • G o for long walks a nature preserve. Mark your calen- bulbs have pushed up through the require work and time! The average start making progress, but here are • J o i n a club or sport together dar and make plans to go when they remaining snow or cold ground. Have couple spends only four minutes of 50 suggestions compiled from doz- • S p e n d time with friends are in bloom. the children draw what they see or connecting each day — that’s sim- ens of men and women (from Twit- • Relax together (cuddling, watch- 4. Kids can design and color their make notes in their journals. Look ter, Facebook, friends, and ing television) own version of a seed package on an up spring bulbs in your gardening li- clients) summarizing what • Always speak kindly of each 8.5-inch by 11-inch sheet of paper. brary books. Snowdrops, crocus, and they have done to rekindle other (face-to-face) and behind each Have them create and name a new daffodils are some varieties of early their relationship! other’s backs flower, or draw an existing variety. blooming spring bulbs. The bulbs Enjoy! • H i r e a sitter, so you can enjoy a 5. Learn more about your state you see in your neighborhood may be • M a ke family dinners to- quiet night together flower on www.statesymbolsusa.org. available in several different colors. gether (and eat together) • D a i l y compliment Notice the leaves and plant shape, Mark your calendar and make plans • Never stop trying to woo • G e t back in shape after kids as well as whether it grows in sun or to plant spring bulbs in the fall, so you your partner • C o m m u n i c a te about day-to-day shade. Maybe the children have seen can look for them next spring. • D o n’ t stop dating. Set events it growing wild. Plan to go exploring 12. Make a seed packet display to aside a night • Ta k e care of yourself. (Look for it on a spring hike before it comes hang in a window or doorway. Have • Fa m i l y activities good) in bloom. You can revisit it during the the kids use a stick from your yard, • Tr ip s • M a ke an effort with the in-laws summer when it has flowers. a wrapping paper tube, or a wooden • H av e a sense of humor • B e comfortable with the other 6. Children will enjoy decorating spoon for the hanger. The children • S p o n t a n e i t y with family doing their own things cupcakes with colorful, creative flow- can punch a hole in the top of the outings • B e honest and open, even though ers. Supply them with candy, sprin- seed packets to hang them from the • Pl ay hockey together it may hurt kles, and squirt tube icing for ac- stick, tube, or spoon using different • S u p p o r t each other in ev- • B e unplugged (without technol- tive fun and delicious treats. Round lengths of yarn, string, or fishing line. erything ogy) and flower-shaped cookies are also Use another piece of yarn to hang • Sing along while cooking • P r a i s e great for decorating. their display from the window or dinner • H o l d hands 7. Three-dimensional pom- doorway. • H av e fun together • B e curious with one another. pom tissue paper flowers are Children can have fun now and • Laugh Dr. Karyn Gordon is one of North fun to make and can be plan activities to look forward to later • S a c r i f i c e America’s leading relationship and par- grouped to fill a centerpiece in the spring, summer, and the fall. • B e active as a family enting experts. She is a regular contribu- bowl. Look for packages of You will have encouraged the bud- • O n e annual vacation with- tor to “Good Morning America,” founder multicolor tissue paper at ding botanist in them, along with out kids of dk Leadership, best-selling author of the dollar store. the nature lover, the artist, and the • G i v e each other time off “Dr. Karyn’s Guide To The Teen Years” 8. Host an indoor, floral- explorer. to do your own hobbies (Harper Collins), and motivational themed party on a cold af- Sarah Yale is a mom and a writer • F u n (and sexy) text mes- speaker to a quarter of a million people. ternoon. Tell your kids to dress in whose children love flowers, exploring, sages throughout the day Visit her at www.dkleadership.org and bright floral colors so they can be the learning, and creating. Our shared ac- • P u t little notes in each on Twitter: @DrKarynGordon. flowers. No matching outfits required. tivities always grow great memories.

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 37 When Mom & Dad have camp anxiety Terrified about sending your child away? Here’s how to ease those fears

By Dr. HeiDi SmitH LueDtke

f your kids are going to sleep- away camp this summer, you I may be wrestling with worries and what-ifs: • W h a t if he wets the bed? • W h a t if the other kids are cliqu- ish or mean? • Will the camp director call me if she’s miserable?

Why parents worry “Much of our anxiety as parents stems from the fact that there are so many things we cannot control in our children’s lives,” says Dr. Paul Donahue, a clinical psychologist and author of “Parenting With- out Fear.” You may worry that without structure, kids won’t be able to handle routine tasks like show- ering, brushing teeth, or getting dressed. One mom I know felt so sure her son wouldn’t change clothes at camp that she packed his items — one pair of underwear, shorts, shirt, and socks — in gal- lon-size Ziploc bags, labeled with the days of the week. Because parents focus so much on kids’ needs, it’s hard

38 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Ultimately, parents want kids to become self-reliant, and building self-reliance WELCOME TO CONSTRUCTION KIDS requires parents do less — not more — for their kids. Camp builds competence If your child can imagine it, ConstructionKids and independence. Give your kids time will help them build it - safely and with the guidance of experienced grown-up hands. to stretch beyond their comfort zones. Our Summer Camps, Birthday Parties, and After School Programs live at the intersection of art and engineering, so that your child’s to step back. Coverage of natu- and independence. Give your kids imagination and problem solving skills are developed. ral disasters and child predators time to stretch beyond their com- makes the world seem scary. fort zones. ALL WHILE “Concern about the safety of Have a plan. Keep anxieties in children has become something control by making a plan for how HAVING of a national obsession,” Dona- you’ll use your “time off.” Sched- hue observes. Even though our ule special time with siblings who FUN!!! protective instincts keep us on aren’t going camping. Plan a ro- edge, sometimes we have to trust mantic date or overnight getaway We offer our others to care for our kids, and with your spouse. Learn some- programs in trust our kids to look out for thing new or catch up on your themselves. favorite shows. Stay busy (but in a multiple locations Fear of letting go can also be good way). You deserve a change in Brooklyn & driven by our own uncertainty of pace, too. Manhattan about who we are without our Share stories. One sure-fire kids and what we’ll do while way to break out of anxiety is Come visit our website at: ConstructionKids.com they’re away. Without baseball to remember and share the fun practice, piano lessons, bedtime times you had at camp with your Email us at: [email protected] routines, and movie night, our kids. Tell them where you went Phone us at: 718-522-2902 lives would be slower and saner and what you did. The time you and … emptier. flipped your canoe over and got sopping wet in the lake shouldn’t How to stop it be a secret. Kids love to hear Don’t let worries weigh you about parents’ camp adventures. down. Use them as an opportu- Stay connected. The kids will nity to confront your own needs be gone but not forgotten. Find for safety, control, and closeness. fun postcards, print pictures of Here’s how: family pets, and collect care- Step back. Anxieties have a way package items to send. Getting of sucking you in. Your thoughts mail from home makes kids feel Summer Arts Camp 2015 and emotions may be swirling special. Resist the urge to check like a tornado around you. Get in every day: kids need space. out of the eye of the storm and Don’t forget to send supplies so reflect on your feelings. What (ex- your kids can send letters home. actly) are your worries? Write They’ll want to share their expe- them down, so you can face them riences and you’ll treasure their head on. letters forever. Question your assumptions. Anxiety is understandable, but Fears may be fueled by irratio- it shouldn’t stop you from sending nal beliefs. Kids don’t suffer seri- kids off to camp. It’s likely that ous malnutrition from week-long many of your cherished child- candy binges. And wearing dirty hood memories involve nature, clothes won’t kill them either. new friends, and time to explore Concerned your temperamental on your own — summer camp of- child won’t fit in socially? Allow fers all these opportunities and for the possibility she’ll find bud- more. dies to hang out with all on her It’ll be okay if they stay up too own. Don’t let your beliefs limit late, eat burned marshmallows, kids’ potential. or lose their swim goggles in the Keep goals in mind. Ultimately, lake. Really. Photo by Gregory Dillon Scherer parents want kids to become self- Heidi Smith Luedtke is a person- reliant, says Donahue, and build- ality psychologist and mom of two 718.797.5600 ing self-reliance requires parents adventurous kids. She is the author of DANCE . DRAMA . MUSIC . ART do less — not more — for their “Detachment Parenting.” Learn more www.creativeartsstudio.com kids. Camp builds competence at HeidiLuedtke.com.

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 39 Camp Directory

BAX, /Brooklyn Arts Are you an aspiring dancer (ages 10 and Exchange Summer up) looking to experience the kind of training a professional will have? Look Program no further! CBTB Dance Academy brings 421 5th Avenue the Manhattan dance experience home 718-832-0018 or www.bax.org to Brooklyn in our spacious and centrally Located in the heart of Park Slope, air-conditioned facility! The Summer BAX has been recognized for excel- Intensive program offers diverse, pro- lence in arts education since 1991. BAX fessional instruction in classical ballet, is deeply invested in developing and pointe, modern, cross-training, composi- encouraging the artist in each student, tion and repertory. The program is fun offering a full range of youth classes but yet serious. It will strengthen your in DANCE, THEATER and TUMBLING, “technique” and broaden your dance six days a week for ages 18 months to vocabulary. New students must attend 18 years. a placement audition. Summer dance Brooklyn Friends School classes are also available for adults and children under 10. Summer Programs CBTB Dance Academy is the official 375 Pearl Street 718-852-1029 or www. school of Covenant Ballet Theatre of brooklynfriends.org Brooklyn, a professional, non-profit dance company founded and directed Is located just one block from Borough by accomplished dance instructor and Hall and easily accessible by public trans- choreographer, Marla Hirokawa. The portation. They offer three summer school also offers a 10 month student programs for children ages 2 to 14. program, adult classes and special Summer Camp enrolls children ages 2 workshops throughout the year. The to 8 and features specialty classes in art, Academy incorporates the ABT® dance, science, tennis, group games and National Training Curriculum for the swimming. school’s Primary though Level 3 ballet Summer Arts enrolls children ages 8 classes. to 11 and offers courses in puppetry, music, fiber arts, hip-hop, photography, Creative Arts Studio drawing, painting and woodworking. Summer Camp 2015 Summer Intensives train campers in Boerum Hill and Carroll Gardens music video animation, printmaking, 718-797-5600 or www. drawing and drama. Expert and nurtur- creativeartsstudio.com ing faculty runs all programs, including Offers children between the ages 5-13, numerous field trips throughout the the opportunity to have a wonderful city. Camp facilities include two gyms, experience of dance, drama, music and rooftop playground, theater & music art. rooms, woodshop, darkroom, media There will be weekly swimming lessons, centers and air-conditioned classrooms. field trips to various museums and special events along with projects and CBE KIDS Summer Day activities that explore weekly themes. Camp The outstanding Teaching Artists of the In the Garfield Temple at 8th Avenue Creative Arts Studio will be teaching and Garfield Place, Park Slope this multi-arts workshop in a fun and 718-768-3814 or www. nurturing environment. congregationbethelohim.org Offers children fun, excitement and a Creative Arts Studio Teen wide variety of recreational activities in Summer Dance Intensive a safe, supervised environment. 2015 The program meets the needs of chil- Boerum Hill and Carroll Gardens dren entering K-4th grades. Children of 718-797-5600 or www. all faiths and ethnic backgrounds are creativeartsstudio.com welcomed. Creative Arts Studio professional Facilities include an indoor pool, art and Teaching Artists will be helping stu- computer rooms, darkroom and large, dents strengthen their technique while multi-use spaces. Prospect Park is used learning composition and the history for sports, nature and outdoor play. of specific dance styles. They will also Activities include daily recreational and focus on improvisation, music, and the instructional swim, gymnastics, nature, process of learning restaged works. arts & crafts, music, sports hobbies Dance Styles include: Modern, Ballet, and twice a week trips, a mid-session Hip Hop, Tap, Musical Theatre and Olympics, Music Festival and Carnival. more! CBTB Dance Academy At least two years of recent ballet or modern experience required. 2085 Coney Island Avenue (Kings Highway and Avenue R) For further information and a complete 718-891-6199 or www. schedule, call 718-797-5600. covenantballet.org Continued on page 42 40 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Special Advertising Section 3$5.6/23(1257+6/23(:,1'6257(55$&(%$<5,'*(&$552//*$5'(16

23(1+286( 339 8 Street, Just below 6 Ave March 14 Presentation at 1:30pm March 28 75$',7,21$/'$<&$03 Prensentations at 1:00pm & 2:30pm Outdoor, fun, stimulating programs for campers ages 3.5 to 14 in addition to specialty programs: SPRING BREAK MINI-CAMP &,548(G·(7( Acrobatics, circus skills, clowning and more Join us for fun day trips and for campers entering grades Pre-K-5 wacky camp culture! For grades PK – 6 632576$&$'(0< Specializing in soccer skills April 6 - 10 for campers entering grades 1 - 5 21:+((/6 Travel camp featuring daily and overnight trips for campers entering grades 6 - 8

/($'(56+,3(;3(5,(1&( a Kids Orbit program for teens entering grades 9 - 10 &ODVVHVLQ3DUN6ORSH&DUUROO*DUGHQV Very flexible registration, extra long season and accomodating :LQGVRU7HUUDFH %URRNO\Q+HLJKWV hours, free morning transportation from most Brownstone %URRNO\Q6RQLFV&RPSHWLWLYH7HDP Brooklyn neighborhoods, door to door transportation available for most other Brooklyn locations, air-conditioned buses $JHVWKrough 10

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Special Advertising Section March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 41 Poly Prep Camp Directory Summer Continued from page 40 The camp offers a fast-paced, fun and ConstructionKids Inc. fully interactive setting; learning adven- Swimming Lessons for children 2 and up tures captivate and entertain as they Summer Camps deliver truly meaningful lessons. Camp Programs for children ages 4–16 718-522-2902 or www. 2015 constructionkids.com Each day FasTracKids will enjoy learning as they explore, discover, imagine and Located throughout Brooklyn and create. This is the summer adventure Manhattan children will use for life. One or 2 ConstructionKids’ Summer Camps are times per week Enopi Math & English Bus known for the dynamic projects camp- Service Classes are also offered all summer and ers build. Imagine what happens when throughout the year. Available you combine a kid’s love of building, a bunch of friends, and a week of time Garden Explorers At The to explore their imaginations. Campers Old Stone House 4 to 8 years old, work on individual 336 3rd Street and group projects with real tools and 718-768-3195 or www. materials that are scaled and selected theoldstonehouse.org for small hands. We teach safe, appro- One Week Workshops This August priate tool usage, along with drawing For Ages 6 – 11 and painting. Creativity and problem Discover the world of plants, garden- solving are encouraged. Our goal is ing and food in our beautiful gardens. to foster each child’s confidence and Gather and plant seeds; explore soil, self-assurance so that their skills at worms, and insects; use garden tools; designing, making, repairing, and revis- play; make paper, paints and dyes from ing are unlimited—like their imagina- plants; use a solar oven. Get dirty! tions. Summer camp is about having Workshops take place at the Old Stone fun, making new friends, bonding with House and in the beautiful gardens of staff, and building really cool stuff. Washington Park. The Cosmic Cove Summer 9 am – 3 pm Monday – Friday Program Workshops Aug 10 - 14, Aug 17 – 21, 300 Atlantic Avenue, and Aug 24 - 28 718-344-4631 or www. carmelothesciencefellow.com Just Wee Two Summer Invites you to discover his science par- Program ties, created at his unique and memo- Brooklyn Heights and Park Slope rable Cosmic Cove. Here, children are 1-800-404-2204 or www. justweetwo.com transformed into scientists: they touch, Programs from June 15 – August 21, 2015: hold, and most importantly take part Is geared for kids 14 months to three- in all of the experiments. They par- and-a-half years, directed and taught ticipate in hands-on activities that are by early childhood teachers trained to DAY CAMP fun, exciting, and, most importantly, work with young children. Just Wee educational. Two is a place where children and SPORTS CAMPS grownups learn and play together. Experiments with Carmelo may include Class sizes are small, allowing for indi- making silly putty, glow in the dark VISUAL ARTS CAMPS vidualized attention. All classes are slime, conducting a diaper powder one-and-a-half or two hours to allow study, making fake snow, etc. They PERFORMING ARTS CAMP for a relaxed, comprehensive atmo- can even work with animals like the sphere. Mothers meet other mothers, weird moving mega mealworms…yuck! ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT developing life-long friendships while You can even take home your experi- their children grow. ments…even the live ones. SAT/PSAT PREP CLASSES Classes celebrate summer through FasTracKids Summer special arts & crafts, songs, water SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CAMPS 60 Broadway Williamsburg table activities and creative play. A 7612 13th Avenue Bay Ridge/Dyker mini-camp program is for children two- Heights and-a-half to three-and-a-half who are ready to separate. OPEN HOUSES FOR ALL PROGRAMS 1605 Voorhies Avenue, Sheepshead Bay Saturday, February 28th, 10 AM–12 PM 150 4th Avenue, Park Slope The Summer Creative Arts 718-748-3000 or www.fastrackids. & Music Program of Leif Saturday, March 7th, 10 AM–12 PM com Ericson Day School Please join us to meet our staff and tour our campus. No RSVP needed. Children welcome. Is designed for children ages 3-7. 1037 72nd Street in Dyker Heights Sessions last for one week at a time. 718-748-9023 or www.ledsny.org A full day program is offered that Children from pre-K to grade 7 enjoy includes enrichment classes, math, computers, art, music, movement, and Poly Prep Country Day School reading, and writing classes, exer- drama. Professional caring staff and 9216 Seventh Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11228 cise, local field trips, arts and crafts, junior counselors are enthusiastic and karaoke, computers, special proj- attentive. Limited group size allows www.polyprep.org/summer2015 ects, science experiments and much for a more fulfilling experience. All more. Hours are from 9am-4pm with activities are on-premises. Two snacks extended hours available. Continued on page 44 42 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Special Advertising Section

Camp Directory

Continued from page 42 tions. Call or come in for a personal provided daily. SCAMP hours are tour of the facility. 9a.m.-3p.m. with “Early bird” care (8am) and “Late Bird” care (5pm) for Oasis in Brooklyn Bridge additional fees. Park Summer Program 180 Remsen St. Brooklyn Heights Summers With 11201 Mathnasium 718-596-4900 or www.oasischildren. 6806 20th Avenue com 347-7-MATH-11 (347-762-8411) or With the magnificent revitalization of www.mathnasium.com/bensonhurst the Brooklyn waterfront, Oasis is thrilled Summer Hours (July and August): Mon- to bring this opportunity to families in Tue-Wed-Thurs: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Brooklyn. Oasis utilizes Brooklyn Bridge Sat 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Friday and Park’s premier lawns, play areas and Licensed Camp | June 29 - August 21 | Ages 3 - 14 Sunday: Closed recreational facilities. Oasis also utilizes Welcome to Mathnasium. We are a the indoor, state-of-the-art athletic and math learning center where we make performing arts facilities of St. Francis What will your child remember? MATH make SENSE to kids. We sup- College, as well as their pristine, air-con- Exciting Day & Overnight Trips in New Making Lifelong Friends port K, 1st grade, 2nd – 12th grades ditioned classrooms and large meeting Air-Conditioned Buses Art, Music, & Science Activities and up. spaces. A traditional day camp in every way, Oasis in Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Open Field Sports Fun on the Beach Our Summer Math camp (July and August) is a great time to CATCH UP, program includes sports and recreation, Swim Lessons with the Shorefront Y Team Competitions KEEP UP and GET AHEAD. visual and performing arts, recreational Lenny Krayzelburg Swim Academy Delicious Kosher Lunches & Snacks and Red Cross instructional swim, and We have fun activities, contests and field trips. In partnership with the rewards. It is an extra relaxed time to Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy, Oasis learn! Shorts, T-shirts, flip-flops wel- offers an outdoor education component 718.646.1444 ext. 335 | [email protected] come! We have earlier hours as well so that includes environmental studies, ori- www.shorefronty.org/summer-camp you can enjoy those beautiful summer enteering and more! Oasis Day Camp evenings. 3300 Coney Island Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11235 is for kids ages 3-12. Families enroll for At Mathnasium, we end the confusion, a minimum of two consecutive weeks, frustration and embarrassment children a maximum of eight weeks, or any often feel about math. combination you choose. Families have the advantage to enroll their children g Production 2015 Midwood Montessori Sprin around their summer plans! n our 1st Summer Program e Joi une 2 Com ril - J 2825 Bedford Avenue, one block PAC KIDS Summer Camp h Ap from Brooklyn College rt 5t 1500 Paerdegat Avenue North, Sta Early Bird 718-253-3242 or www. 718-531-1111 or www.pacplex.com asses Cl Specials midwoodmontessori.com Variety of programs for ages 3.5 to 14. July & August The rich Montessori setting that All activities are located on the prem- SPRINGSPRING SEASONSEASONN attracts children to our school influ- ises, and include swimming, gymnas- ences our summer camp - a nurturing, tics, basketball and soccer. As always, BEGINS APRIL 9TH creative environment providing a wide the philosophy is to provide fun and variety of activities for children ages 2.9 exciting activities that create a reward- “Early Stages” Classes for Children 4 - 6 years old - 6 years. These include indoor play in ing experience for your children while “Main Stages” Classes for Children 6 - 16 years old our centrally air conditioned building, always maintaining a safe environment three outdoor play areas, daily water by an experienced and caring staff. play, gardening, picnics, barbecues, Weekend and Weekday Classes Available Transportation for most of Brooklyn. music, arts & crafts, weekly field trips We accept Begin ACD and 1199. Please Sibling Discounts and Limited Class Sizes and theme days, all of which are super- call for more information. vised by our caring and experienced SUMMER year-round staff. Transportation is avail- The Park Slope Day Camp ALL TEACHERS ARE PROFESSIONAL CAMPSwith able. Located one block from Brooklyn Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, Bay PERFORMERS FROM BROADWAY Broadway College, our hours are 9 AM - 3 PM (8 Ridge, Carroll Gardens Performers AM drop-off available). 718-788-7732 or www. Mill Basin Day Camp parkslopedaycamp.com Please visit our website for questions and registration details PSDC = CAMP SPIRIT, COMMUNITY 5945 Strickland Avenue 718-251-6200 or www. AND FRIENDSHIP. Call Beth: 718 - 852 - 3208 millbasindaycamp.com Welcoming, stimulating, lively, diverse, StageCoach the World’s Largest Mill Basin Day Camp is dedicated to safe, professionally managed outdoor providing an exciting and fulfilling camp for ages 3.5 – 14. Exciting Part Time Theatre Arts Schools camp experience for children entering travel camp for grades 6 – 8; fantastic W! Pre-K through 9th grade. As the larg- Leadership Experience for grades 9 & T NO est camp only facility in Brooklyn, their 10. Specialized Sports Academy and AC modern, fully equipped, air-conditioned Circus program. Swim, sports, arts, CE! Theatre Arts Schools DAN Stagecoach and secure space offers a wide range gymnastics, horseback riding, lots SING! of on-site activities. Campers are super- of special events, trips. Very flexible www.StageCoachSchools.com vised by qualified staff in a fun and registration; extra long season and safe first environment. Door to door accommodating hours. Transportation. bus service is available to most loca- Continued on page 46 44 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Special Advertising Section The Preparatory Center for the Performing Arts 234 Roosevelt Hall, 2900 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11210 Over 35 years of offering music, theater, and dance classes for children age 3 and up. Summer 2015 • Creative Arts Program for ages 3–5 • Dance Classes for ages 3 & up • Theater Classes for children and teenagers • Musical Theater Workshop • Group Piano and Guitar Classes for children, teenagers, and adults • Beginner to advanced instrument and voice lessons for children, teenagers, and adults Suzuki Programs 2015-2016 for Violin, Cello, & Flute: Information sessions & interviews Please call 718 -951- 4111 for further information on summer and school year programs, classes and private instruction. Visit our website www.bcprepcenter.org

Winston Preparatory School

Summer Program

Education for the Individual

A unique individually designed program aimed to develop:

Reading Comprehension Study Strategies

Decoding and Spelling Writing

Organizational Skills Math

th th Small class sizes for students in 4 through 12 grades

After-school activities include basketball, art, music, yoga,

photography, acting, computing, and dance

One-on-one classes and independent study program available during July and August

June 26 – July 24, 2015

126 West 17th Street New York, NY 10011 646-638-2705 ext. 688 [email protected] applications available online at www.winstonprep.edu

Special Advertising Section March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 45 Leif Ericson Day School Camp 1037 - 72nd Street • 718-748-9023 Directory

*Nursery - Grade 8* Continued from page 44 and group music study. Informational An experienced, creative, stable staff, and placement interviews are currently • Small Class Size second to none! being held. Suzuki program in violin, Call for a cello, and flute, as well as for our other • Professional Staff Piper Theatre Workshop music, theater, and dance classes. If Personal Tour at the Old Stone House you are interested in learning more • Safe, Caring Environment 336 3rd Street about the Preparatory Center, you can Anytime 718-768-3195 or www.pipertheatre. access information from our website or • Comprehensive Curriculum org call our office. • Music & Performance Education For Ages 7 – 17 June 29 – July 25 Prospect Park Zoo / Piper Theatre Workshop Children NY Aquarium Summer spend their days rehearsing under the • Project-based Computer Technology guidance of professional artists, cul- Program minating in fully staged and costumed 800-433-4149 or www.wcs.org/ including Robotics & Claymation performances outdoors at the Old summer-camps Stone House & Washington Park. This Summer Camps at the Wildlife season’s productions include Puppetry, Conservation Society provide a unique REGISTER NOW! Shakespeare, One Flew Over The chance for children to get up close & Cuckoo’s Nest, Hands-On Film, The personal with animals from around the Music Man and more! globe without traveling far from home. Summer Creative Arts The Bronx Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, Ages 7-11 One and Two Week Queens Zoo, & New York Aquarium Workshops & Music Program will introduce your child to wildlife & 9 am – 3 pm Monday – Friday wild places through exciting investiga- for Children 3-12 years old Extended day available tions, animal encounters, hands-on Ages 11-17 Four Week Workshops science activities, & crafts. The Zoos & Aquarium offer programs for 2 & 3 9 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday June 22 - July 31, 2015 year olds with their caregiver & drop- Programs take place in the Old Stone off day camps for children in Pre-K House and MS 51, with lots of outdoor (must be at least 4 years old) through Building a Culture of Peace http://ledsny.org time in Washington Park and JJ Byrne High School. Teens can learn what it playground. takes to be a zoo keeper, design an Poly Prep Summer Camp exhibit, & more in our 3-week Teen Internship! For details & registration 9216 7th Avenue 718-836-9800 x 322 or www. visit www.wcs.org/summer-camps or polyprep.org call 800-433-4149. Poly Prep Summer Programs offer fami- Shorefront YM-YWHA Day lies an outstanding alternative to sleep- Camp away camps. On our 25-acre campus 718-646-1444 ext. 335 or www. in Dyker Heights, campers create, play, shorefronty.org/camp sing, swim, dance, and explore! You A fun-filled summer experience for can choose from our weekly programs children ages 3 to 14. Ideally located offered in basketball, baseball, lacrosse, on the Boardwalk in Brighton Beach, soccer, squash or computer; our the experienced staff provides a safe 5-week Performing Arts Camp, or our & nurturing environment for your 6-week Summer Experience Day Camp. children. Kosher lunches and snacks We also offer afternoon swim lessons. are provided daily. Exciting activities Please visit our website or call for a free include beach outings, sports, swim- brochure. ming lessons in the Olympic sized Preparatory Center For indoor pool, arts & crafts, dance, singing, drama, thrilling trips, special events The Performing Arts at and much more! Brooklyn College Summer Program Stepping Stones Nursery 234 Roosevelt Hall 2900 Bedford School Summer Ave. 245 86th Street 718-951-4111 or www.bcprepcenter. 718-630-1000 or e-mail org [email protected] The Preparatory Center for the Offers an eight-week summer camp Performing Arts at Brooklyn College program for children ages 2 to 9 years offers music, theater and dance classes old. The children engage in indoor and and private lessons for children of all outdoor recreational activities such as ages and levels. We also welcome field trips, arts and crafts, dramatic adult students for private instruction play, sand and water activities and in musical instruments, voice, and story time. composition. Registration is currently Camp is open 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., underway for our summer semester. Monday through Friday. Stepping Offerings for the summer include a Stones has central air conditioning Creative Play program for ages 3-5, with modern learning materials and a dance and theater classes, and private Continued on page 48 46 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Special Advertising Section Join us for Garden Explorers this August One Week Workshops for Ages 6 to 11 Register Today

Workshops Aug 10 - 14 Aug 17 - 21 Aug 24 - 28 Monday - Friday 9 am - 3 pm at the Old Stone House & Washington Park in Park Slope | theoldstonehouse.org | 718-768-3195

Special Advertising Section March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 47 Camp Directory

Continued from page 46 staff’s guidance. Local trips, weekly safe surface playground. Call for more themes, arts & crafts, computers, sing- information. ing, group games, and pool activities are enjoyed. Olympics and carnival are where children and grown-ups learn and play together StageCoach Theatre Arts highlights. Four to six week programs School Summer Program are offered, as are sibling discounts. 718-852-3208 or www. Door-to-door bus service is available. For 8 months – 3½ years stagecoachschools.com/ Call for individualized appointment. brooklynheights Stagecoach Theatre School in Brooklyn Winston Preparatory Register Now for Spring & Summer! Heights is excited to offer summer School Summer Program Brooklyn Heights Location Performing Arts camps for children 126 West 17th Street Park Slope Location aged 4-16 years for an intensive 646-638-2705, ext. 688 or www. Our Lady of Lebanon Church Park Slope Jewish Center week of acting, singing and dancing. winstonprep.edu 111 Remsen Street (off Henry) 8th Ave. & 14th St. Students will have workshops with The Summer Enrichment Program at Broadway artists during the week as Winston Preparatory School provides well as working on a show! Each week students with the unique opportu- Join Us For Fun We Offer explores a different theme and camp- nity to participate in an individually • Arts & Crafts ers work on a new Musical. designed program to enhance aca- • Music • Stories Parent/Child Classes Week 1: July 20th-25th demic skills and performance. Students • Creative Movement in grades 4-12 attend four academic • Playtime “Just For Me” Week 2: August 3rd-8th classes each day as well as art, music, • Narrow Age Spans week 3: August 10th-15th • Maximum 10 Children Per Class Separation & Partial Separation Classes and gym classes from 9:00 am to 1:30 • 1½ Hour Classes All classes divided age. All abilities pm, from June 26-July 24. Students • Professional Staff Wee Step Up – Pre-Nursery Program welcome. are grouped by learning style and skill This is a fantastic week for children level in classes no larger than eight Infant Classes and ABC Enrichment Classes also available who would enjoy an intensive and individuals in order to facilitate greater For information call 1-800-404-2204 or 516-433-0003 fun filled week of acting, singing and learning and maximize individualized Or log onto our website: www.justweetwo.com dancing. Camp locations in Cobble Hill, instruction. The program develops Other Locations: Bayside, Plainview, Manhasset, Greenwich, & North Stamford, CT Carroll Gardens and Brooklyn Heights. decoding and encoding, reading Reasonable rates as well as sibling comprehension, critical-thinking skills, discounts! Please call Beth Kent or visit memory retrieval, organizational skills, our website for more information. written language expression, self-advo- cacy, mathematical computation, time- Windmill Montessori management skills, test preparation, Mo Summer Camp and expressive language skills within od n 1317 Avenue T a nurturing, academic environment. o te 718-375-7973 or 4277 or www. From 2:00-3:30 pm, students may also w ss [email protected] enroll in optional one-on-one classes to d o Registration is beginning now for target specific skill development and/or i Windmill’s 2015-2016 School Year and engage in after-school activities such as r our Academic Montessori Summer Day digital photography, art, acting, cross- i Camp and Creative Writing Program training, music, zumba, and computing M for 3-12 year olds. Windmill offers a basics. Students may also enroll in one- nurturing place where the children on-one sessions from August 3-20. make friends and learn through the Students from private, public, and Montessori Method, while having lots parochial schools from New York City of fun. Spacious enclosed yard with and abroad participate in the program. playground and pool lets campers Scholarships are available. For further safely participate in outdoor activities, information, brochures, or applications, all with highly qualified and caring please call or e-mail. Digital Pre-School & Kindergarten CAMP GUIDE Summer Program Transportation Available 2015 2825 Bedford Avenue • 253-3242 at Glenwood Road www.midwoodmontesssori.com Check it out on nyparenting.com

48 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Special Advertising Section REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER CAMP DANCE | THEATER | VISUAL ART | TUMBLING | MEDIA | CIRCUS Bronx Zoo New York Aquarium Prospect Park Zoo Queens Zoo June 29 – August 14, 2015 9:00am–3:00pm Drop off begins at 8:30 am Extended Day Program (3-5:45 pm) For children entering grades K-6 Register for one week, mix-and match, or register for all seven. Register in person, by phone or online.

arts & artists in progress WCS.ORG/SUMMER-CAMPS 421 Fifth Avenue, Park Slope, Brooklyn | 718.832.0018 (800) 433-4149 WCS Julie Larsen Maher ©

Join Piper this July for our 15th Anniversary Year of Summer Theatre Workshops Ages 7 - 17 | June 29 - July 25

Building Community Through Drama | pipertheatre.org | 718-768-3195

Special Advertising Section March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 49 teens A new leaf in winter

y college has provided me nothing about: stained-glass tiling. me over stumbling blocks through- many amazing academic To start off with, I am not an artist. out the month. She helped me over- M opportunities thus far that I have little natural-born artistic abil- come my perfectionism and fear of have broadened my intellectual ho- ity, and I have never taken a studio dissatisfaction by coaxing me to em- rizons. One purpose of a liberal arts art class in my life. Nevertheless, I brace the imperfections and “mis- education is to truly engage in a can and do appreciate art, especially takes” in my piece. With a portrayal subject matter that is unfamiliar and stained glass. When I was young, my of nature, uniformity is not as im- new. During my year and a half at parents took me to the Queens Mu- portant as maintaining the natural- A letter Williams, I have always been en- seum of Art to view its Tiffany lamps ness of the scene. Hence, the jagged couraged to explore all academic exhibit. I enjoyed the beautiful shining edges or cut-off bits of my leaves from college and creative fields, regardless of my glass so much that I begged my par- could be seen as the irregularity of AglAiA Ho major. Unfortunately, embracing this ents to buy a stained-glass window for nature’s own hand. This new per- new perspective on learning never our living room. While they definitely spective truly helped me appreciate came easily to me. I was apprehen- did not have the cash to purchase a my piece, along with all the time and sive about taking different classes stunning panel for our home, they did work that went into creating it. and definitely concerned about the compromise by buying a cheaper Tif- Watching my project, “Nature’s Im- grade payoff. However, this winter, I fany-inspired chandelier for our foyer. perfections,” move through all the finally had the chance and the cour- To me, it seemed like an incred- stages of the stained-glass tiling pro- age to take a class that was not only ible and ambitious idea for me to cess was incredible. I documented outside of my comfort zone, but was learn this craft and be able to cre- my own journey through a series of a unique and unusual experience. ate some beautiful glass pieces of pictures I sent to my parents daily my own. Furthermore, the course (mostly, seeking compliments and would be taught by a professional “wows”). Every day brought its own stained-glass artist, Debora Coombs, set of challenges and new lessons who has several stunning windows to be learnt. My classmates and I hanging in churches across America provided each other with support and England. To learn from someone and company as we often worked full who is passionate and truly knows days in the studio together. Watching her craft would be a once-in-a-life- other projects come together was al- time experience. It was exciting, almost as meaningful as seeing my own though I really doubted my ability transform. Each of our victories and to create anything impressive. Well, successes were a triumph for the en- thankfully, it was a very long winter! tire class. We never compared works, The course was really a test of my because we all developed our own patience and perseverance. I had to styles and each piece was beautiful quickly pick up new skills, from scor- and special in its own way. ing and breaking glass, to accurately With a winter study class so in- measuring pieces, to soldering the volved as stained-glass tiling, the win- pieces together. ter passed by quickly. The miserable The majority of our time was weather did not affect my mood as it spent working on our final projects, did the year before. It was rewarding which was a stained-glass piece of to learn a skill that was so unique and During the month of January, be- our choosing. I decided on a panel to come away with a piece of artwork tween fall and spring semesters, my inspired by the beautiful Berkshire that is, might I say, rather impressive. school offers a transitional mini-se- autumns. I would show a bunch of The meaning of winter study finally mester known as Winter Study. This leaves as they transitioned from made sense to me with this class. is a month-long period where stu- summery greens to brilliant and rich There was so much excitement, pride, dents take only one-class on a pass- fall tones of gold, orange, and red. and satisfaction with learning such a or-fail basis. The goal is to allow stu- Although my project was, by rela- unique skill and walking away with a dents to study in-depth a specific tivity, not the most complicated or project that reflects a month of hard subject and explore new skills. My complex in the class, it was a chal- work. Now, if only I can get my par- freshman year, I cautiously chose a lenge for me. I struggled from the ents to knock out a window at home Winter Study class that dealt with very beginning, trying to cut out my and install my new piece of art! material I was very comfortable with. irregularly shaped tiles. The personal You can learn more about my Unfortunately, I felt I got so little out battle would only continue, as my lack stained glass window and my winter of the experience and the lack of chal- of artistic skills would make painting study journey at my blog. lenge and learning really took a toll each tile a tedious experience. Aglaia Ho is a sophomore at Williams on the entire tone of Winter Study. Our instructor was inspiring and College and a native New Yorker. She Given this experience, I decided, this her guidance was invaluable. Her also writes for her own blog at www. year, to choose a course that I knew encouragement and advice often got aglaiaho.weebly.com.

50 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 teens $UH\RXSUHJQDQW EXWKDYHQRLQVXUDQFH" A new leaf in winter DON’T FEAR, MPP is Available At y college has provided me nothing about: stained-glass tiling. me over stumbling blocks through- many amazing academic To start off with, I am not an artist. out the month. She helped me over- EAST NEW YORK DIAGNOSTIC M opportunities thus far that I have little natural-born artistic abil- come my perfectionism and fear of have broadened my intellectual ho- ity, and I have never taken a studio dissatisfaction by coaxing me to em- AND TREATMENT CENTER rizons. One purpose of a liberal arts art class in my life. Nevertheless, I brace the imperfections and “mis- education is to truly engage in a can and do appreciate art, especially takes” in my piece. With a portrayal subject matter that is unfamiliar and stained glass. When I was young, my of nature, uniformity is not as im- new. During my year and a half at parents took me to the Queens Mu- portant as maintaining the natural- Medicaid A letter Williams, I have always been en- seum of Art to view its Tiffany lamps ness of the scene. Hence, the jagged couraged to explore all academic exhibit. I enjoyed the beautiful shining edges or cut-off bits of my leaves from college and creative fields, regardless of my glass so much that I begged my par- could be seen as the irregularity of AglAiA Ho Prenatal major. Unfortunately, embracing this ents to buy a stained-glass window for nature’s own hand. This new per- new perspective on learning never our living room. While they definitely spective truly helped me appreciate came easily to me. I was apprehen- did not have the cash to purchase a my piece, along with all the time and sive about taking different classes stunning panel for our home, they did work that went into creating it. Program and definitely concerned about the compromise by buying a cheaper Tif- Watching my project, “Nature’s Im- grade payoff. However, this winter, I fany-inspired chandelier for our foyer. perfections,” move through all the finally had the chance and the cour- To me, it seemed like an incred- stages of the stained-glass tiling pro- age to take a class that was not only ible and ambitious idea for me to cess was incredible. I documented 2094 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11207 outside of my comfort zone, but was learn this craft and be able to cre- my own journey through a series of a unique and unusual experience. ate some beautiful glass pieces of pictures I sent to my parents daily For information, please call our MPP my own. Furthermore, the course (mostly, seeking compliments and Representatives are available would be taught by a professional “wows”). Every day brought its own stained-glass artist, Debora Coombs, set of challenges and new lessons who has several stunning windows to be learnt. My classmates and I 718-240-0469 hanging in churches across America provided each other with support and England. To learn from someone and company as we often worked full who is passionate and truly knows days in the studio together. Watching APRIL 22–24, 2015 March 2015 12TH ANNUAL her craft would be a once-in-a-life- other projects come together was al- BROOKLYN FREE Wyndham New Yorker Hotel time experience. It was exciting, almost as meaningful as seeing my own though I really doubted my ability transform. Each of our victories and Family to create anything impressive. Well, successes were a triumph for the en- Where Every Child Matters thankfully, it was a very long winter! tire class. We never compared works, The course was really a test of my because we all developed our own fresh KEYNOTE patience and perseverance. I had to styles and each piece was beautiful START SPEAKERS quickly pick up new skills, from scor- and special in its own way. GREAT SPEAKERS. GREAT LEARNING. Conquering the SISTER TESA FITZGERALD ing and breaking glass, to accurately With a winter study class so in- (Excellence in Early Childhood HELPING YOUNG CHILDREN LEARN & GROW Common Core Award Recipient), Executive measuring pieces, to soldering the volved as stained-glass tiling, the win- Director, Hour Children OVERVIEW pieces together. ter passed by quickly. The miserable Tackling Over 100 Speakers tween acne The majority of our time was weather did not affect my mood as it DAN ZANES More than 80 Conference Sessions President/Founder Full Day Pre-Conference Workshop spent working on our final projects, did the year before. It was rewarding Supporting your Festival Five Records child’s athletics 40 Exhibitors & Over 1,200 Attendees expected which was a stained-glass piece of to learn a skill that was so unique and DR. TEMPLE GRANDIN TOPICS During the month of January, be- our choosing. I decided on a panel to come away with a piece of artwork Professor Start thinking summer! Dept. of Animal Science ADHD Emotional Intelligence tween fall and spring semesters, my inspired by the beautiful Berkshire that is, might I say, rather impressive. Find us online at Colorado State University Camps 2015 NYParenting.com Autism Essentials Educational Policy school offers a transitional mini-se- autumns. I would show a bunch of The meaning of winter study finally Behavior Management Music and Learning DR. DIANE CRAFT mester known as Winter Study. This leaves as they transitioned from made sense to me with this class. Professor Bullying Play Physical Education Department Developmental Discipline Social Skills Development is a month-long period where stu- summery greens to brilliant and rich There was so much excitement, pride, State University of NY at Cortland If you like the magazine, you’ll love the site. Early Literacy Speech Language Issues dents take only one-class on a pass- fall tones of gold, orange, and red. and satisfaction with learning such a . . . and many more MAGGIE DOYNE or-fail basis. The goal is to allow stu- Although my project was, by rela- unique skill and walking away with a Founder and CEO BlinkNow Foundation The Young Child Expo & Conference will provide dents to study in-depth a specific tivity, not the most complicated or project that reflects a month of hard early childhood professionals and parents the latest subject and explore new skills. My complex in the class, it was a chal- work. Now, if only I can get my par- Check us out! information about early childhood development, freshman year, I cautiously chose a lenge for me. I struggled from the ents to knock out a window at home NICHOLAS KRISTOF services, resources, and products to help all children Author, A Path Appears reach their full potential. In one unique event, this Winter Study class that dealt with very beginning, trying to cut out my and install my new piece of art! Columnist, New York Times conference integrates learning about a wide variety of material I was very comfortable with. irregularly shaped tiles. The personal You can learn more about my 2 DAY PRE-CONFERENCE iimimportantmporttantanan totopicsopicpi ssa affectingaffffefffectictingng typicallytytypypypicaccaallyllyly developingded children NYParenting.com WORKSHOP SPEAKER Unfortunately, I felt I got so little out battle would only continue, as my lack stained glass window and my winter DR. VINCENT J. CARBONE asa well as those of the experience and the lack of chal- of artistic skills would make painting study journey at my blog. NYS Licensed Behavior withwwii special needs, Analyst CEO, Carbone Clinic To register go to: includingininnc autism. lenge and learning really took a toll each tile a tedious experience. Aglaia Ho is a sophomore at Williams Where every family matters and where www.YoungChildExpo.com on the entire tone of Winter Study. Our instructor was inspiring and College and a native New Yorker. She REGISTER BEFORE or call 212-787-9700, ext. 333 Given this experience, I decided, this her guidance was invaluable. Her also writes for her own blog at www. New York parents find help, info and support. MARCH 25, 2015 Early Bird & Group Discounts year, to choose a course that I knew encouragement and advice often got aglaiaho.weebly.com. EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 51 Relationships Divorce after age 50 anny DeVito and Rhea Perl- some of them are directly related to • T h o s e with a college degree ex- man, Tipper and Al Gore, “the unique events and experiences perience a considerably smaller risk D Arnold Schwarzenegger and characterizing” the “life course of divorce compared to those with Maria Shriver. What do these couple stages” of middle age (50-65) and lower levels of education. have in common? In addition to fame older adulthood (65+). During these • T h e rate of divorce is highest and fortune each of these couples stages, “many couples confront among the unemployed. ended their respective marriages empty nests, retirement, or declining • O l d e r adults who are not in the when the spouses were 50 years of health, which can pose considerable labor force (presumably because Divorce & age or older. Such splits — couples challenges for marital adjustment. they are retired) have the lowest who divorce after age 50 — are re- These turning points can prompt divorce rate. Separation ferred to as “gray” divorces. The spouses to reassess their marriages, In addition to the study’s find- Lee Chabin, esq. number of gray divorces is growing, ultimately leading them to divorce,” ings — of which there are even more and not only among the rich and write Brown and Lin. — the authors discuss the “implica- celebrated. Other findings include: tions for individuals, their families, A 2013 study “The Gray Divorce • Middle-aged adults are experi- and society at large.” Revolution: Rising Divorce among encing a higher rate of divorce than It says it is likely that divorce has Middle-aged and Older Adults, 1990 older adults. “negative consequences, particu- – 2010,” authored by Susan L. Brown • M e n and women 50 and over are larly for those who did not want the and I-Fen Lin, both in the sociology divorcing at very similar rates (9.8 divorce or who are economically dis- department of Bowling Green State divorced men per 1,000 married per- advantaged or in poor health.” University, found that the divorce sons; 10.3 women divorced per 1,000 “Divorced older adults no longer rate among adults ages 50 and older persons). have a spouse on whom to rely and doubled between 1990 and 2010. • T h e r e is some racial and eth- are likely to place greater demands Roughly one in four divorces in 2010 nic variation in the risk of divorce on their children,” write the authors. occurred to persons ages 50 and among those ages 50 and older, with These children may be asked to older, and the rate of divorce was 20.5 divorced blacks per 1,000 mar- serve as caregivers in lieu of the ab- 2.5 times higher for those in remar- ried persons, 11.3 divorced Hispan- sent spouse: riages versus first marriages, while ics per 1,000 married persons, and “The strain of such intense obliga- the divorce rate declined as marital nine divorced whites per 1,000 mar- tions may weaken inter-generational duration rose. ried persons). ties … Adult children are particu- There are many factors and cir- • T h e divorce rate also differs by larly unlikely to provide care to their cumstances that may contribute economic resources — including divorced fathers.” to gray divorces. The study says education. “Some older adults may not have children available nearby to provide care,” and so “the rise in later life divorce may place additional burdens on society at large, as divorced individuals will be forced to turn to institutional” assistance rather than look to the family for support. The study, which the authors ac- knowledge has limitations, is some- what alarming. But having this information will surely help society deal with the consequences of gray divorce, which are likely to become more apparent over the coming years. New York City and Long Island-based divorce mediator and collaborative divorce lawyer Lee Chabin helps clients end their relationships respectfully and without going to court. Contact him at [email protected], (718) 229– 6149, or go to http://lc-mediate.com/. Follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lchabin. Disclaimer: All material in this column is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

52 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Relationships NEW YORK SPECIAL CHILD

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The spouses to reassess their marriages, In addition to the study’s find- Lee Chabin, esq. number of gray divorces is growing, ultimately leading them to divorce,” ings — of which there are even more DIAGNOSING “Special Needs” and not only among the rich and write Brown and Lin. — the authors discuss the “implica- PANDAS celebrated. Other findings include: tions for individuals, their families, Families throughout A 2013 study “The Gray Divorce • Middle-aged adults are experi- and society at large.” City museums offer Revolution: Rising Divorce among encing a higher rate of divorce than It says it is likely that divorce has access Middle-aged and Older Adults, 1990 older adults. “negative consequences, particu- programs NYC & Long Island – 2010,” authored by Susan L. Brown • M e n and women 50 and over are larly for those who did not want the Cultivating and I-Fen Lin, both in the sociology divorcing at very similar rates (9.8 divorce or who are economically dis- winning department of Bowling Green State divorced men per 1,000 married per- advantaged or in poor health.” attitudes University, found that the divorce sons; 10.3 women divorced per 1,000 “Divorced older adults no longer 200+ rate among adults ages 50 and older persons). have a spouse on whom to rely and doubled between 1990 and 2010. • T h e r e is some racial and eth- are likely to place greater demands resources Roughly one in four divorces in 2010 nic variation in the risk of divorce on their children,” write the authors. occurred to persons ages 50 and among those ages 50 and older, with These children may be asked to For more information about distribution or older, and the rate of divorce was 20.5 divorced blacks per 1,000 mar- serve as caregivers in lieu of the ab- Spring–Summer 2014 2.5 times higher for those in remar- ried persons, 11.3 divorced Hispan- sent spouse: LONG ISLAND FREE how to get your free copy, please Fall/Winter 2010/2011 riages versus first marriages, while ics per 1,000 married persons, and “The strain of such intense obliga- LONG ISLAND FREE the divorce rate declined as marital nine divorced whites per 1,000 mar- tions may weaken inter-generational SPECIAL CHILD e-mail us at [email protected]. duration rose. ried persons). ties … Adult children are particu- Specialwww.NYParenting.com child There are many factors and cir- • T h e divorce rate also differs by larly unlikely to provide care to their w w w .NYParenting �� .com cumstances that may contribute economic resources — including divorced fathers.” 150+ resources to gray divorces. The study says education. “Some older adults may not have Visit us online at children available nearby to pro- KIDZ TALK vide care,” and so “the rise in later New speech aid app www.NYParenting.com life divorce may place additional Help students Tipslearn through to burdens on society at large, as di- Like us on our Facebook page, NYParenting organizebreathing vorced individuals will be forced or follow us on Twitter to turn to institutional” assistance yourCare forchild the 8 caregivers rather than look to the family for Beneﬁ ts of support. Takespecial charge needs The study, which the authors ac- Creatingcamps an IEP knowledge has limitations, is some- what alarming. But having this information will surely help society deal with the To advertise your business and or services consequences of gray divorce, which School blues are likely to become more apparent Overcoming anxiety contact us at 718-260-4554 or over the coming years. e-mail us at [email protected] New York City and Long Island-based divorce mediator and collaborative divorce lawyer Lee Chabin helps clients end their relationships respectfully and without going to court. Contact him at [email protected], (718) 229– 6149, or go to http://lc-mediate.com/. Family Publications New York/CNG Follow him on Facebook at www.face- 1 MetroTech Center North - 10th Fl. • Brooklyn, NY 11201 book.com/lchabin. Disclaimer: All material in this column is for informa- 718-260-4554 • [email protected] tional purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 53 Advice Death, the law, and stored sperm & eggs I stored my eggs and have fertilized after the genetic parent’s death. embryos stored at a reproductive fertil- The statute includes various pre- ity clinic. What happens to my genetic requisites for the writing and pro- material if I get sick or when I die? vides a sample form that would be- Ask An hoove anyone to follow closely. It he advancement of assisted also provides mechanisms for revok- Attorney reproductive technology has ing the consent. Alison Arden Besunder, T transformed the meaning of A related bill is working its way esq. parenthood and biological relation- through the New York Legislature to ships in a “family.” address this issue in the context of Many states have struggled with marital relations (more particularly, the complex legal issues presented by divorce proceedings). The bill would children who are conceived before a amend the Domestic Relations Law parent’s death, but born after the par- and enact provisions relating to the ent’s death. Even more vexing is the execution of written forms, prior to question of children who were con- assisted reproductive technology ceived after a genetic parent’s death services, for consent and directives using that parent’s genetic material. grappled with whether a child con- for the transfer, use, and disposition State law dictates inheritance ceived by in vitro fertilization with of cryopreserved embryos or gam- rights, Gov. Cuomo recently signed sperm of a predeceased child fell etes. It would provide for notice prior a law to address the issue of in- within the class of persons contem- to the implementation of the terms of heritance rights of a posthumously plated by the trust. The court held such directives. As of Jan. 28 the bill conceived child in New York. The that the children born with a par- was referred to the judiciary. legislation allows New York to join ent’s consent is entitled to the same This new legislation will help guide 20 other states that have addressed rights as a natural-born child. Ac- the courts in addressing the needs of this thorny issue revolving around cordingly, held the court, the after- children, parents, donors, and other reproductive technologies. born child was included in the class beneficiaries of the estate, as well as Children conceived before a par- of beneficiaries of the trust. preventing abusive use of genetic ma- ent’s death but born after her death Gov. Cuomo then enacted a sec- terial to improperly gain access to an inherit in intestacy from that genetic ond law under which a posthumous estate’s assets. That said, it remains parent as if they were born in her child of a genetic donor (called a unclear how the new legislation will lifetime. The law also states that “genetic child” in the statute) will impact a specific bequest in one’s last “posthumous children are entitled be recognized as a distributee of the will and testament of such genetic to take in the same manner as if liv- genetic parent if one of four condi- material; or whether such a bequest ing at the death of their ancestors,” tions are met: would be deemed to comply with the if “a future estate is limited to chil- • T h e genetic parent expressly bills. It also does not address posthu- dren, distributees, heirs or issue…” consents in writing to the use of the mous use of cord blood, which can be The only case in New York dealing genetic material for posthumous con- used to treat certain conditions. It is with the issue arose in 2008 and ad- ception and authorizes a specific per- still critical to consider your genetic dressed whether a provision dealing son to make decisions about its use. material and take steps to ensure that with out-of-wedlock children encom- • T h e parent must give notice to your intentions are carried out. passed posthumously conceived the personal representative of the Alison Arden Besunder is the found- children. In that case, a person cre- estate within seven months of the is- ing attorney of the law firm of Arden ated seven trusts in 1969. He died suance of letters. Besunder P.C., where she assists new in 2001 survived by two of his three • T h e authorized person must re- and not-so-new parents with their estate children. His predeceased son had cord the consent-authorization with planning needs. Her firm assists clients left behind preserved semen for his the Surrogate’s Court within seven in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Nas- wife’s use. His wife later gave birth months of the genetic parent’s death. sau, and Suffolk Counties. You can find to two sons. The grantor’s trusts • T h e child must be in utero within Alison Besunder on Twitter @estatetrust- provided for his descendants to be 24 months of the genetic parent’s plan and on her website at www.besun- beneficiaries of the trusts. The case death or born no later than 33 months derlaw.com.

Disclaimer: This column is provided by the Law Offices of Alison Arden Besunder P.C. and New York Parenting Media as a public service to inform readers of legal issues. It is not intended to advise. Since legal issues vary with an individual’s situation and needs, one should consult with an attorney. It is impossible to cover all aspects of the law in an article. Please be advised that the laws are constantly changing. The content in this article reflects the current law. Nothing contained in this article is intended as advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and the firm. Individual consultation with an attorney is required to determine the specific facts and circumstances of any particular situation. A written retainer agreement between you and the firm is required before any attorney-client relationship may be created. Circular 230 Disclosure Notice: To ensure compliance with Treasury Department rules governing tax practice, we inform you that any advice contained herein (including in any attachment) (1) was not written and is not intended to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty that may be imposed on the taxpayer, and (2) may not be used in connection with promoting, marketing or recommending to another person any transaction or matter addressed herein. 54 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 rechaun, I would say, ‘Hi, my name is Advice Patrick. No, St. Patrick’s Day was not named after me, though I’m a kind and loving man. I already found my pot of gold. I have a beautiful wife, A St. Patrick’s daughter, and dog. I’m a blessed man.’ ” Death, the law, and Jessie then handed me my third assignment, a coloring sheet with the words “Happy St. Patrick’s Day!” surrounded by green clovers. Finally, stored sperm & eggs my chance to color. I searched for a green crayon. I stored my eggs and have fertilized after the genetic parent’s death. to remember Teacher Jessie had a different les- embryos stored at a reproductive fertil- The statute includes various pre- son plan. She gave me the writing ity clinic. What happens to my genetic requisites for the writing and pro- yard and placed two lawn chairs prompt, “If I found a pot of gold, I Ask An material if I get sick or when I die? vides a sample form that would be- What to Cherish The on top of them. I relaxed in one of would spend it on …” with my an- hoove anyone to follow closely. It MoMenTs the chairs while Jessie prepared our swer to be written on the back of the he advancement of assisted also provides mechanisms for revok- learn from a picnic. She likes to be in charge of paper. I wanted to raise my hand and Attorney reproductive technology has ing the consent. the menu and entertainment. About ask for a bathroom pass, but I knew Alison Arden Besunder, T transformed the meaning of A related bill is working its way By Patrick HemPfing 10 minutes later, Jessie called for as- my request would be denied. Like esq. parenthood and biological relation- through the New York Legislature to holiday picnic sistance. She carried the basket of before, Jessie finished well before ships in a “family.” address this issue in the context of rior to St. Patrick’s Day last snacks and a few sheets of paper. I me. She chewed on a pretzel stick Many states have struggled with marital relations (more particularly, year, my 9-year-old daugh- grabbed the crayons and markers. and waited patiently. the complex legal issues presented by divorce proceedings). The bill would P ter, Jessie, came home from Of course, Sadie, our dog, joined Jessie’s been campaigning for an- children who are conceived before a amend the Domestic Relations Law school and asked to have a picnic. us; it wouldn’t be a picnic without other dog, so her answer didn’t sur- parent’s death, but born after the par- and enact provisions relating to the Jessie loves picnics. Sadie. A few seconds later, Jessie’s prise me. “If I found a pot of gold, I ent’s death. Even more vexing is the execution of written forms, prior to We tossed two blankets in the feet were free of socks. We munched would spend it on one more dog. It question of children who were con- assisted reproductive technology on pretzels and raisins and shared would be a Havanese. I would spend ceived after a genetic parent’s death services, for consent and directives a can of Orange Crush soda a friend the rest on books.” using that parent’s genetic material. grappled with whether a child con- for the transfer, use, and disposition gave her for Valentine’s Day. I’ve been campaigning for a man State law dictates inheritance ceived by in vitro fertilization with of cryopreserved embryos or gam- My future third-grade teacher cave, a quiet area to focus on my rights, Gov. Cuomo recently signed sperm of a predeceased child fell etes. It would provide for notice prior (her current career aspiration) writing. I wrote, “If I found a pot of a law to address the issue of in- within the class of persons contem- to the implementation of the terms of then distributed my first as- gold, I would spend it on building a heritance rights of a posthumously plated by the trust. The court held such directives. As of Jan. 28 the bill signment, a St. Patrick’s Day man cave. It would be a luxurious conceived child in New York. The that the children born with a par- was referred to the judiciary. maze. She had downloaded man cave with all the amenities a legislation allows New York to join ent’s consent is entitled to the same This new legislation will help guide the maze from a teaching famous writer would have. I’d have 20 other states that have addressed rights as a natural-born child. Ac- the courts in addressing the needs of website and printed copies state-of-the-art office equipment. I this thorny issue revolving around cordingly, held the court, the after- children, parents, donors, and other for each of us. We raced would install a bell on my desk. I reproductive technologies. born child was included in the class beneficiaries of the estate, as well as to see whose leprechaun would ring it to have my assistant Children conceived before a par- of beneficiaries of the trust. preventing abusive use of genetic ma- would reach the pot of bring me a snack or whatever else ent’s death but born after her death Gov. Cuomo then enacted a sec- terial to improperly gain access to an gold first. Jessie won. I need. For now, I’m happy with my inherit in intestacy from that genetic ond law under which a posthumous estate’s assets. That said, it remains My second as- man chair.” parent as if they were born in her child of a genetic donor (called a unclear how the new legislation will signment involved As I reflect on our St. Patrick’s- lifetime. The law also states that “genetic child” in the statute) will impact a specific bequest in one’s last a coloring sheet that themed picnic, these thoughts stand “posthumous children are entitled be recognized as a distributee of the will and testament of such genetic pictured a pot of gold. out. Jessie will make an outstand- to take in the same manner as if liv- genetic parent if one of four condi- material; or whether such a bequest I like to color; however, ing teacher. Her best chance for a ing at the death of their ancestors,” tions are met: would be deemed to comply with the my aspiring teacher gave Havanese is to find a pot of gold; if “a future estate is limited to chil- • T h e genetic parent expressly bills. It also does not address posthu- me the following writing they’re expensive little puppies. I’m dren, distributees, heirs or issue…” consents in writing to the use of the mous use of cord blood, which can be prompt, “If I saw a lep- getting better at writing on demand, The only case in New York dealing genetic material for posthumous con- used to treat certain conditions. It is rechaun, I would …” In- though I still don’t enjoy it. Wouldn’t with the issue arose in 2008 and ad- ception and authorizes a specific per- still critical to consider your genetic stead of coloring the pot it be wonderful if Jessie found a lep- dressed whether a provision dealing son to make decisions about its use. material and take steps to ensure that of gold, Jessie asked me rechaun who could fund research to with out-of-wedlock children encom- • T h e parent must give notice to your intentions are carried out. to write my answer in- cure cancer? passed posthumously conceived the personal representative of the Alison Arden Besunder is the found- side the pot. My writer Finally, I need to accept that my children. In that case, a person cre- estate within seven months of the is- ing attorney of the law firm of Arden friends know I’m not a big fan luxury man cave, with assistant, is ated seven trusts in 1969. He died suance of letters. Besunder P.C., where she assists new of writing on demand. I was not likely to happen. But hey, with in 2001 survived by two of his three • T h e authorized person must re- and not-so-new parents with their estate ready to object, but noticed Jes- the extra writing practice, maybe children. His predeceased son had cord the consent-authorization with planning needs. Her firm assists clients sie had already started to write I’ll become a famous author and can left behind preserved semen for his the Surrogate’s Court within seven in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Nas- on her copy, so I hastily began upgrade to a man sofa. wife’s use. His wife later gave birth months of the genetic parent’s death. sau, and Suffolk Counties. You can find my assignment. Until next month, remember to to two sons. The grantor’s trusts • T h e child must be in utero within Alison Besunder on Twitter @estatetrust- Jessie finished well ahead of cherish the moments. provided for his descendants to be 24 months of the genetic parent’s plan and on her website at www.besun- me. She wrote, “If I saw a lepre- Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year ca- beneficiaries of the trusts. The case death or born no later than 33 months derlaw.com. chaun, I would ask him nicely to reer in banking, accounting, and audit- give 1,000 million dollars to help ing before he became a father at age Disclaimer: This column is provided by the Law Offices of Alison Arden Besunder P.C. and New York Parenting Media as a public service to inform readers of legal issues. It is not intended to advise. Since legal issues vary with an individual’s situation and needs, one should consult with an attorney. It is impossible to cover all aspects of the law in an article. Please be advised that the laws are constantly changing. The content in this article reflects the current law. Nothing contained find a cure for cancer.” 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay- in this article is intended as advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and the firm. Individual consultation with an attorney is required to determine the specific facts and circumstances of any particular situ- Jessie’s answer clearly beat at-home dad, and writer. Follow him at ation. A written retainer agreement between you and the firm is required before any attorney-client relationship may be created. Circular 230 Disclosure Notice: To ensure compliance with Treasury Department rules governing tax practice, we mine, but for writing on de- www.facebook.com/patricklhempfing inform you that any advice contained herein (including in any attachment) (1) was not written and is not intended to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalty that may be imposed on the taxpayer, and (2) may not be used in connection with promoting, marketing or recommending to another person any transaction or matter addressed herein. mand, I did okay. “If I saw a lep- and on Twitter @PatrickHempfing. March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 55 BOOKS Prisoners of love he Case for Loving: The another state. Fight for Interracial Mar- In Washington, D.C. “T riage” by Selina Alko, illus- again, the Lovings tried trated by Sean Qualls and Selina Alko, to settle in. Richard got is an important book for children — a job. Mildred had three and adults — who are too young to children. But the city remember Loving v. Virginia. wasn’t a good place Falling in love was very easy for for the Lovings. They Richard Loving and Mildred Jeter, missed their families. and it didn’t take long for them to de- They weren’t happy, THE BOOK cide that they wanted to get married. so nine years after But there was one problem: Rich- that late-night visit WORM ard was white. Mildred was “colored.” by the police, they TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER They didn’t think that was a big deal, hired lawyers to fight but in Virginia in 1958, it was illegal for for the right to live in them to get married. their beloved Virginia. So Mildred and Richard went to “The Case for Loving” is a very in- stand, however, is this: for its 4-to-8- Washington, D.C. and tied the knot formative, eye-opening book. Author year-old target age group — particu- there. The Lovings “couldn’t wait” to Alko says in her notes that, as a Jew- larly for those on the younger end — start their new lives back home. ish white woman, she finds it “diffi- this book could be scary, especially Not long after they were back in cult to imagine” that her marriage (to the jail part. Virginia, though, the police came in illustrator Qualls, an African Ameri- Still, if you’re prepared to explain the middle of the night and said that can) might have been illegal 50 years and you keep the youngest audience the Lovings’ marriage certificate was ago. Kids might find that notion to members in mind, this could be a no good. They put Richard and Mil- be almost “unbelievable,” too, given great read-aloud book. dred behind bars. that they’ve never known a world “The Case for Loving: The Fight for In order to stay out of jail for good, like the one described here. Interracial Marriage” by Selina Alko [40 Richard and Mildred had to move to What parents will want to under- pages, 2015, $18.99]. ‘Dead or Alive?’ is pure fun ven though On the other hand, though, what and thylacines? Your child, that’s your children about those critters that gotta eat? who, once he’s got “Dead or Alive?” E quarrel, they They can pretend to be rocks, like in his hands. still love each other, an alligator or snapping turtle, and Inside this book, there are crea- and nothing danger- lure their lunches straight to their tures that crawl, walk, run — and o u s h a p p e n s — u n l i k e mouths. Or, like the anglerfish, they are eaten. There are animals that with the creatures in might use bioluminescence to invite fly, swim, wiggle — and are hunt- the new book “Dead other creatures to dinner. Or, like ers. And, of course, author Clive or Alive?” by Clive orange barnacles, they could turn Gifford includes critters that have Gifford, illustrated their prey into zombies and wait uniquely adapted to survive in ways by Sarah Horne. until snacktime. that your child will find fascinating, When an animal Mayflies have mouths, but they maybe a little icky. And if icky isn’t in the wild gets hun- don’t use them, because mayflies enough, there’s fun to be had in gry, there aren’t a “don’t live long enough to get hun- Sarah Horne’s colorful, informative, lot of options. They gry.” Scientists think there’s a pos- but cartoon-like illustrations, too. have to catch their sibility that the Antarctic volcano This book is perfect for kids ages supper, and while sponge might live for up to 10,000 7 to 12, and I think even adults nature has given years! A 4-month-old puppy in Eng- could learn a thing or two by paging them speed and land accidentally got flushed down through it. If you’ve got a young bi- claws, potential meals have a the toilet and survived, and a cat in ologist or animal lover around, look few tricks on their side, too. Boston fell 19 stories and lived. Ex- for it. Getting him to read “Dead or Take, for instance, opossums and tinct animals have been discovered Alive?” shouldn’t be much of a fight. hognose snakes. alive, and scientists are trying to fig- “Dead or Alive,” by Clive Gifford [48 When opossums and hognoses ure out how to bring other animals pages, 2015, $14.99]. are threatened, they act dead, they back from extinction. Terri Schlichenmeyer has been read- smell dead, they look dead, and Anybody can spout information ing since she was 3 years old, and she are very unappetizing to predators. about cats and dogs. Many kids never goes anywhere without a book. That allows them to play dead an- know things about horses and cows. She lives on a hill with two dogs and other day! But who knows about tardigrades 12,000 books.

56 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 “EXQUISITELY STYLISH... A GOTHIC FANTASIA!” - The New York Times PHOTO: DAVID COOPER LOGO DESIGN: KURT FIRLA

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- The London Telegraph

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March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 57 CalendarmARCH Timbalooloo

Celebrate the Purim holiday tumes. with fun activites at Hannah Se- Everyone is invited to make a Dress up for Purim nesh Community Day School on crown and mask, have their faces March 1. painted, and dress up to the nines Children 2 to 10 years old can in costumes. enjoy the whole Megillah, start- Step into Purim on March 1 from ing off with a special performance 9 am to noon. Admission is $5. by Orin Etkin of Timbalooloo, fol- Hannah Senesh Community Day lowed by a reading of “The Won- School [342 Smith St. between First derful Wizard of Oz,” and then and Second places in Carroll Gar- an interactive performance with dens, (718) 858–8663, www.hannah- home-made props, sets, and cos- senesh.org].

58 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar The walk is approximately four hours. RSVP 24 hours in advance. Submit a listing Drop-in Drawing: Brooklyn Bo- This calendar is dedicated to tanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave. bringing our readers the most at Eastern Parkway; (718) 623–7220; comprehensive list of events in www.bbg.org; 1 pm to 3 pm; Free your area. But to do so, we need with garden admission. your help! Visitors are invited to tour the gal- Send your listing request to lery and then sketch what they see. No brooklyn[email protected] reservations necessary and suitable for — and we’ll take care of the rest. all ages. Please e-mail requests more than three weeks prior to the event to ensure we have enough Tues, March 3 time to get it in. And best of all, In Brooklyn it’s FREE! Toddler Tuesdays: LeFrak Center at Lakeside, 171 East Dr. at Ocean Av- enue; (718) 462–0010; www.lakeside- Sun, March 1 brooklyn.com; 9:30 am–noon; $15 (one child and one adult). In Brooklyn Morning consists of 60 minutes of Gull walk: Prospect Park Audubon instructor-led skating, ice skate rentals Center, Enter park at Lincoln Road Violet Brill and helmet rental, plus snacks. Chil- and Ocean Avenue; (718) 287–3400; dren 2 to 5 years old with a caregiver. www.prospectpark.org/audubon; 8 am–9 am; Free. Take a foraging tour Hike with the rangers and discover Thurs, March 5 how many types of gulls reside in the “Wildman” Steve Brill hosts Bring a plastic bag for the veg- In Brooklyn park. Spring Forage 2015 on March 1 at gies and herbs, paper bags for Moonlight walk: Prospect Park Step Into Purim: Hannah Senesh Prospect Park. the mushrooms, and plastic con- Audubon Center, Enter park at Lin- Community Day School, 342 Smith Celebrating 33 years of forag- tainers for berries, a water bottle, coln Road and Ocean Avenue; (718) St. between First and Second places; ing and the third anniversary of lunch, work gloves, notepad, and 287–3400; www.prospectpark.org/ (718) 858–8663; iklein@hannahse- public foraging tours, “Wildman” a whistle, as well as a digging audubon; 6–8 pm; $10 ($30 for a fam- nesh.org; www.hannahsenesh.org; 9 Brill leads fellow naturalists on tool. Check the weather and wear ily of four). am–noon; $5. a four-hour tour to search for appropriate clothing. Families are welcome to take a stroll Celebrate Purim and enjoy the field garlic, wild spring greens, Spring Forage 2015 on March and enjoy an evening of stargazing whole Megillah starting off with a spe- roots, goutweed, chickweed, and 1 at 11:45 am. The cost is $20 for and hiking. Then wrap up the night cial performance by Timbalooloo, fol- with a cup of hot cocoa and s’mores. lowed by a reading of “The Wonderful wild mushrooms that grow in the adults and $10 for children under Wizard of Oz,” and then an interactive park. 10. Please RSVP 24 hours in ad- performance with home-made props, Children will learn all about vance to reserve a space. Sat, March 7 sets and costumes. Children 2 to 10 the common, renewable, and me- Grand Army Plaza [Union Street In Brooklyn years then make a crown and mask, dicinal wild plants that grow right between Flatbush Avenue and Pros- Lloyd H Miller: Brooklyn Historical have their faces painted and dress up in their own backyard, as well as pect Park West, in Prospect Heights; Society, 128 Pierrepont St. at Clinton to nines. how to properly identify, collect (914) 835–2153; www.wildmansteve- Street; (718) 222–4111; www.brook- Winter Bird Stroll: Brooklyn Bo- and prepare the edibles. brill.com]. lynhistory.org; 11 am; Free. tanic Garden, 1000 Washington Ave., Children join in for a sing-a-long, at Eastern Parkway; (718) 623–7220; featuring songs, stories, skits, movies www.bbg.org; 10 am–11 am; Free younger audiences, (3–7 years old). hamentashen cookies and raffles. and more. with garden admission. Clowns use blocks to build, break and Cosmic creations: Brooklyn Chil- Blooming Babies: Brooklyn Chil- Fun for the whole family to spot rebuild relationships to space and each dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. where the winter birds are. other. St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735– “Little Laffs Kids Show with Nature Playtime: Prospect Park www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am and 4400; www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 the Good Ms. Padgett”: Jalopy Zoo, 450 Flatbush Ave. at Ocean Ave- 2 pm; Free with museum admission. am–12:30 pm; Free with museum Theatre, 315 Columbia St. between nue; (718) 399–7339; www.prospect- Learn about astronomy and the admission. Hamilton Avenue and Woodhull parkzoo.com; 10:30 am – 12:30 pm; planets, stars, and space with Dr. Neil Children 18 months to 2 years cele- Street; (718) 395–3214; lynette@ja- Free with zoo admission. Degrasse Tyson, a contemporary Afri- brate Black History Month and learn all lopy.biz; www.jalopy.biz; 10:30 am; Creative play for the entire family can-American astrophysisist. Make a about famous African Americans and $5 kids, $10 adults, $25 family, kids — make nature-inspired art projects, shooting star to take home. their contributions. under 2 free. insect observation, play with snow and Spring foraging: Grand Army “Once upon a Cloud”: Barnes Variety show for kids ages 3–9, in- more. Plaza, Union Street between Flatbush and Noble, 267 Seventh Ave. at Sixth cluding juggling, balloon art, music, Purim carnival: Kings Bay YM- Avenue and Prospect Park West; (914) Street; (718) 832–9066; www.barne- comedy, and more. YWHA, 3495 Nostrand Ave. at 835–2153; www.wildmanstevebrill. sandnoble.com; 2 pm; Free. “Teatre Tre”: BAM Fisher, 321 Ash- Avenue V; (718) 648–7703 X 224; com; 11:45 am; $20 ($10 for children Hear a fun story with the new Pic- land Pl. between Hansen Place and [email protected]; 11 am–1:30 under 10). ture Book of the Month. In “Once Lafayette Avenue; www.bam.org/visit/ pm; Free. “Wildman” Steve Brill celebrates an- upon a Cloud” Celeste wants to give buildings/bam-fisher; 10:30 am and Enjoy an entire day filled with festivi- other spring of foraging for edibles in her mother something special, but 1:30 pm; $12. ties including song, dance, children’s the park. The 2015 search begins with what? Join Celeste on her journey to Sweden’s oldest troupes present a rides, sand art, face painting, carnival hunting for field garlic. Searchers will find the perfect gift! physical comedy created especially for games, and a costume contest. Free locate wild goutweed and chickweed. Continued on page 60 March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 59 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 59 287–3400; www.prospectpark.org/ The Beauty of Ballet: Brooklyn audubon; 10–11 am; Free. Center for the Performing Arts at Learn to use binoculars and iden- Brooklyn College, 2900 Campus Rd., tify the 250 species of birds residing in between Amersfort Place and Kenil- Prospect Park. worth Place; (718) 951–4500; www. Handmade History: Brooklyn His- brooklyncenteronline.org; 2 pm; Free. torical Society, 128 Pierrepont St. at In collaboration with the School of Clinton Street; (718) 222–4111; www. American Ballet, join students and fac- brooklynhistory.org; 11:30 am; Free. ulty in this program illustrating the pro- After visiting one of the Brooklyn cess of developing into classical ballet Historical Society’s galleries, partici- dancers. pants take part in an art-making proj- “Pilobolus Rules!”: BAM Fisher, ect that they can take home. 321 Ashland Pl. between Hansen “Mustache Baby” storytime: Place and Lafayette Avenue; www. Barnes and Noble, 267 Seventh Ave. bam.org/visit/buildings/bam-fisher; 2 at Sixth Street; (718) 832–9066; pm and 6 pm; $12. www.barnesandnoble.com; 2 pm; The renowned troupe offers children Free. TA Smith and parents a behind-the-scenes look It’s a fun-filled storytime featuring at the creative process, with audience Mustache Baby — aka Baby Billy. Ac- engagement and hands-on demon- tivities to follow. strations as dancers unpack four of the Puppet show for kids company’s best-loved pieces live on The magic of “Sleeping Beauty” “Sleeping Beauty,” now through Garifuna Drumming and Arts: stage. For children 6 to 11 years old. Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 comes to life at Puppetworks Inc. March 29 with showtimes on Sat- Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Avenue; “The Barber of Seville”: Our now through March 29. urdays and Sundays, at 12:30 pm (718) 735–4400; www.brook- Lady of Perpetual Help auditorium, The classic story, based on and 2:30 pm. Tickets are $9 and lynkids.org; 2 pm; Free with museum 5902 Sixth Ave. at 59th Street; (718) the 1697 Perrault’s Faery Tale, is $10 for adults, group rates avail- admission. 259–2772; www.reginaopera.org; 3 performed by the wonderful pup- able. Dance along to music from the Gari- pm; $25 ($20 seniors; $5 teens; free petry of marionette artist Nicolas Puppetworks Inc. [338 Sixth Ave. funa community, descended from the for children). Arawak, Carib, and West African peo- The Regina Opera Company pres- Coppola and is suitable for chil- at Fourth Street in Park Slope, (718) dren 4 years and older. 965–3391, www.puppetworks.org]. ples who currently live throughout the ents the Rossini classic, with English Americas. This Garifuna arts program super-titles. is led by Brooklyn’s own Garifuna art- Further Afield Young yogis, what is your favor- LeFrak Center at Lakeside. See Tues- ist, James Lovell! Mike Carbo’s Big Apple Con: ite animal? Explore movement as we day, March 3. The Golden Dragon: Brooklyn Penn Plaza Pavilion, 401 Seventh Ave. stretch like a cat, pose like a baby Center for the Performing Arts at at 33rd Street, Manhattan; www. cobra, and even go upside-down for Wed, March 11 Brooklyn College, 2900 Campus Rd., nycbm.com; 10 am – 6 pm; $20 ($10 downward facing dog. This program between Amersfort Place and Kenil- children). welcomes children with special needs In Brooklyn worth Place; (718) 951–4500; www. and offers a fun, engaging activity for brooklyncenteronline.org; 2 pm; $25 Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Latin Fusion: Kumble Theater at the entire family. Space is limited. RSVP ($12.50 children under 12). the city’s longest-running comic book Long Island University, DeKalb and required. Young children will be spell-bound sci-fi/fantasy convention where collec- Flatbush avenues; (718) 488–1624; as the award-winning acrobats spin, tors and enthusiasts will find hundreds Pilobolus Rules!: 11 am and 2 pm. www.brooklyn.liu.edu/kumblethe- leap and twirl on stage. of vendor tables, top comics, celebri- BAM Fisher. See Saturday, March 7. ater; 7:30 pm; $15 ($10 students and ties, pro wrestlers, dealers, panel dis- seniors). “The Barber of Seville”: 3 pm. Blooming Babies: 11:30 am–12:30 cussions, costume contests, and more. Celebrate the rhythms sounds and Our Lady of Perpetual Help audito- pm. Brooklyn Children’s Museum. See rium. See Saturday, March 7. Saturday, March 7. vibrations of Latin-American music. Sun, March 8 Woody Guthrie’s Wonder Sun, March 15 In Brooklyn Wheel Tour: Brooklyn Center for the Fri, March 13 Purim Carnival: Congregation Beth Performing Arts at Brooklyn College, In Brooklyn In Brooklyn Eloheim, 274 Garfield Pl. at Eighth 2900 Campus Rd., between Amers- Ice skating party: Lefrak Skating Nature Playtime: 10:30 am – Avenue; (718) 768–3814; www.con- fort Place and Kenilworth Place; (718) Center in Prospect Park, 171 East Dr.; 12:30 pm. Prospect Park Zoo. See gregationbethelohim.org; 9:30 am–11 951–4500; www.brooklyncenteron- (718) 462–0010; 6 pm to 8 pm; $30 Sunday, March 1. am; $15 ($10 member) each session. line.org; 3 pm; $30. (plus $2.49 fee). Kirsten Hall: powerHouse on 8th, Grab a costume, eat, play games The Klezmatics perform tunes that Skate with old friends and make 1111 Eighth Ave. between 11th and and listen to the Megallah, then par- harken us back to 1940s Coney Is- new friends, admission helps support 12th streets; (718) 666–3049; www. take of the Purim tradition and assem- land. The group infuses the passion of Brooklyn Ice Free After-school Ice Skat- powerhousearena.com; 11:30 am; ble gifts for the need in the commu- Wood Guthrie’s poetry with a shot of ing Program for “at-risk” Brooklyn stu- Free. nity. Registration required. klezmer, Celtic, Afro Caribbean and dents and includes skates bag check, folk flavors. Children’s book author Kirsten Hall Nature Playtime: 10:30 am – use of the party room, and admission discusses her book “The Jacket,” the 12:30 pm. Prospect Park Zoo. See “The Barber of Seville”: 3 pm. to the rink. tale of the companionship and com- Sunday, March 1. Our Lady of Perpetual Help audito- fort a young girl finds in the pages of rium. See Saturday, March 7. Family Access Program – Ani- Sat, March 14 a book. mal Yoga: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- St. Patrick’s Day: Brooklyn Chil- seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks Tues, March 10 In Brooklyn dren’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at Avenue; (718) 735–4400; www. Family Bird Watching: Prospect St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; brooklynkids.org; 11 am; Free with In Brooklyn Park Audubon Center, Enter park at www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am; museum admission. Toddler Tuesdays: 9:30 am– noon. Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue; (718) Free with museum admission. 60 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar You’re in luck! Children will explore The rangers lead a fascinating walk Irish traditions, including St. Patrick’s through the park and explore the ar- Day. Then create a rainbow mobile to chitecture and design of old New York. hang at home. Imagine in ‘purple’ Recommended for teens. Brooklyn St. Patrick’s Day: Kick Come along with Harold and St Patrick’s Day Parade: Kick Off Stand, Third Ave. at Marine Avenue; Off, Prospect Park West and 15th have a great adventure in the Street; 1 pm; Free. www.bayridgestpatricksday.com; 1 Target Storybook Series, “The Ad- Come on down to the parade and pm; Free. celebrate the 40th anniversary of ev- ventures of Harold and the Pur- Kick off and celebrate your Irish at erything green. ple Crayon” on March 29 at the this annual event. Center for the Performing Arts at “The Barber of Seville”: 3 pm. Yo Re M: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- Our Lady of Perpetual Help audito- Brooklyn College. seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks rium. See Saturday, March 7. Enchantment Theater Com- Avenue; (718) 735–4400; www. pany performs this story of a brooklynkids.org; 3 pm; Free with mu- young boy who creates worlds seum admission. Tues, March 17 to explore, using his limitless Imagination Celebration is a wild In Brooklyn imagination and his trusty purple ride around the world and beyond using our bodies, voices and imagina- Toddler Tuesdays: 9:30 am– noon. crayon. Harold travels to Mars, tions! Through a unique combination LeFrak Center at Lakeside. See Tues- joins a circus, and meets a king in of yoga and music, we will journey to

day, March 3. Michael Zinn the enchanted garden. The the- exciting destinations, learning about St. Patrick’s Day: 11:30 am. Brook- atre company uses a multimedia at 2 pm. Tickets are $9. animals, cultures and languages lyn Children’s Museum. See Sunday, approach incorporating life-size Brooklyn Center for the Perform- along our way. No yoga experience March 15. puppets, masks, music, and lots ing Arts at Brooklyn College [2900 required. of magic. Recommended for chil- Campus Rd., between Amersfort Further Afield National Dance Theatre Com- dren 4 years and older. Place and Kenilworth Place in Mid- pany of Jamaica: 3 pm. See Satur- St. Patricks’ Day Parade: Kick off, “The Adventures of Harold and wood; (718) 951–4500; www.brook- day, March 21. 44th St. and Fifth Avenue, Manhattan; the Purple Crayon,” on March 29 lyncenteronline.org] 11 am; Free. Emerging company perfor- Come on down to the world-famous mances: The Actors Fund Arts Cen- ter, 160 Schermerhorn St. at Smith parade, kick up your heels, listen to the www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 am; and go on new adventures. Activities bagpipes and be Irish for the day. Street; (347) 719–0719; brooklyn- Free with museum admission. to follow. dancefestival.org; www.brooklyn- What do people and animals need Hakani: 7 pm. BAM Fisher. See Fri- dancefestival.org; 3 pm and 6 pm; $25 Fri, March 20 to live and grow? Discover the life day, March 20. ($20 seniors & children). cycles of people, animals, and plants In Brooklyn The Youth Company performs. using pictures and objects from the National Dance Theatre Com- Stamping workshop: Brownsville museum’s collection. Then make a pany of Jamaica: Brooklyn Center Hakani: 6 pm. BAM Fisher. See Fri- Recreation Center, 1555 Linden Blvd. yummy and nutritious snack to help for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn day, March 20. at Hegeman Avenue; (718) 485–4633; you grow healthy and strong! College, 2900 Campus Rd., between Noon–2pm; Free. Amersfort Place and Kenilworth Place, National Developmental Dis- Mon, March 23 Sonomi Kobayashi, member of the in Midwood; (718) 951–4500 www. Art Student League, teaches partici- abilities Awareness Month brooklync enteronline.org; 8 pm; In Brooklyn pants how to use everyday objects as Event: Pacplex Sports Recreation and $36–$75. Educational Complex, 1500 Paerdaget Coney Island on Ice: Lefrak Skat- stamps. For older children. Premier dance company in the Ca- ing Center in Prospect Park, 171 East Ave. at Paerdaget 13th Street; (347) ribbean, the group performs traditional Dr.; (718) 462–0010; 8 pm; $30 (plus Hakani: BAM Fisher, 321 Ashland Pl. 831–5688; ajones.dtbe@outlook. between Hansen Place and Lafayette music and folklore from Jamaica, Af- fee). com; www.daretobeextraordinary.org; rica, and the American South. Avenue; www.bam.org/visit/buildings/ 12:30–3 pm; $25 adults, $15 kids, free The event showcases the talents and bam-fisher; 7 pm; $12. for kids 6 and under. progress of the Brooklyn ice students and special guests. A single dancer moves within a Dare to be Extraordinary offers Sun, March 22 cube, interacting with the images pro- games, entertainment, and photo In Brooklyn jected on its walls, tracing arcing pa- shoots with Olympic gold medalist and Tues, March 24 rabolas and sine waves with hands and Nature Playtime: 10:30 am – TNA professional wrestler Kurt Angle, In Brooklyn feet. For children 8 years and older. and motivational speakers bringing 12:30 pm. Prospect Park Zoo. See awareness for children with special Sunday, March 1. Toddler Tuesdays: 9:30 am– noon. Sat, March 21 needs. “A Line Can Be..”: powerHouse on LeFrak Center at Lakeside. See Tues- 8th, 1111 Eighth Ave. between 11th day, March 3. In Brooklyn Fire-making skills: Salt Marsh Nature Center, 3302 Avenue U; (718) and 12th streets; (718) 666–3049; College fair: First Baptist Church of 421–2021; 1 pm; Free. www.powerhousearena.com; 11:30 Wed, March 25 Crown Heights, 450 Eastern Pkway. at am; Free. Let the urban rangers teach you the Rogers Avenue; (917) 826—4123; 10 In Brooklyn techniques and skills to improve your Children 4 to 5 years old listen to am–3 pm; Free. Opening day: The Carousel, Enter knowledge of the natural world and this story by Laura Ljungkvist. RSVP the Flatbush Avenue and Lincoln Road Students welcome to learn about ca- that just might save your life. For chil- requested. entrance; www.nycgovparks.org; reer and college opportunities. dren 8 years and older. Growing big: 11:30 am. Brooklyn Noon–5 pm; $2 per ride ($9 for book Handmade History: 11:30 am. Storytime: Barnes and Noble, 267 Children’s Museum. See Saturday, of five rides); free for Prospect Park Al- Brooklyn Historical Society. See Satur- Seventh Ave. at Sixth Street; (718) March 21. liance Members. day, March 14. 832–9066; www.barnesandnoble. Historic New York: Grand Army Celebrate the start of spring with Growing big: Brooklyn Children’s com; 2 pm; Free. Plaza, Union Street between Flatbush the first ride on the iconic 1912 Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Edmund Unravels. Edmund is ready Avenue and Prospect Park West; (718) carousel. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; to discover the wonders of the world 421–2021; 1 pm; Free. Continued on page 62 March 2015 • BROOKLYN Family 61 Calendar Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar

Continued from page 61 families explore nature through play, Thurs, March 26 activities include nature inspired arts and crafts, insect observation, playing In Brooklyn with snow and more. Children receive Carousel opening: Children’s Cor- a nature play activity guide to the park. ner (Willink entrance), Flatbush Ave. Each workshop is led by a trained teen at Empire Boulevard; (718) 965– discovery guide. 8951; [email protected]; www. Circus Xtreme: Barclays Center, prospectpark.org; Noon–5 pm; $2 per 620 Atlantic Ave. at Pacific Street; ride ($9 for book of five rides); free (917) 618–6100; www.barclayscenter. with Alliance Family Plus membership. com; Friday, Feb. 27, 10:30 am; Sat- Celebrate the start of spring with a urday, Feb. 28, 7 pm; Sunday, March ride around the 1912 carousel. 1, 11 am; Monday, March 2, 11 am; $15–$65. Fri, March 27 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents its new circus show, featuring In Brooklyn BMX riding tricks, high wire acts, and Carousel opening: Noon–5 pm. animals from around the world. Children’s Corner (Willink entrance). Arty Facts: Brooklyn Museum, 200 See Thursday, March 26. Eastern Pkwy. at Washington Avenue;

Yellow Sneaker (718) 638–5000; www.brooklyn- Sat, March 28 museum.org; Sundays, 11 am, Now – Sun, May 17; Free with museum In Brooklyn Yellow Sneaker concert admission. Storytime: Barnes and Noble, 267 Enjoy a concert and puppet performances. Children are invited to imagine and Seventh Ave. at Sixth Street; (718) show when Yellow Sneaker visits Yellow Sneaker on March 22 at create new worlds and explore the 832–9066; www.barnesandnoble. the Museum of Jewish Heritage 10:30 am. Tickets are $10, and $7 museum. com; 11 am; Free. on March 22. for children under 10. “We the People: The Citizens New York Times bestselling chil- Brooklyn band Yellow Sneaker Museum of Jewish Heritage [36 of NYCHA in Pictures and Words”: dren’s author Tad Hills shares his Brooklyn Historical Society, 128 Pier- “Duck & Goose” stories, leading into and its puppet pals nurture family Battery Pl. at First Place in Bat- bonds and bridge connections to tery Park, (646) 437–4202; www. repont St. at Clinton Street; (718) a special story time with Duck and 222–4111; www.brooklynhistory.org; Goose and fun activities. Jewish life and traditions through mjhnyc.org] Wednesdays – Sundays, Noon–5 pm, Family Boogie: Brooklyn Historical Now – Sun, March 8; $10. Society, 128 Pierrepont St. at Clinton you grow up. day, March 3. This collection exhibits candid pho- Street; (718) 222–4111; www.brook- tographs and interviews with African lynhistory.org; 11 am; Free. Junior Volunteer Corps: Prospect Americans and Latinos residing in New Enjoy a day of exploration, a trea- Park, Ninth St. and Prospect Park; Long-running York City Housing Authority housing, (718) 965–8951; www.prospectpark. sure hunt of the building, and dance In Brooklyn taking a different look at the stereo- with Together in Dance. org; 1:30–3:30 pm; info@prospect- types surrounding them. park.org. “From Here to There”: Brooklyn Me and My Community: Brook- Families and elementary-aged youth Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. Craft room: Jewish Children Mu- lyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn groups are invited to pitch in and get at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735–4400; seum, 792 Eastern Parkway; (718) Ave. at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735– the park ready for spring by raking www.brooklynkids.org; Tuesdays – 907–8833; www.jcm.museum; Sun- 4400; www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 leaves and other activities. Refresh- Sundays, 10 am–5 pm, Now – Wed, days – Thursdays, Noon–5 pm, Now am; Free with museum admission. ments provided. Register online. June 10; $9. – Tues, March 31; Free with museum Learn about the roles of different admission. “Harold and the Purple The Brooklyn Children’s Museum ex- community helpers by examining the plores transportation with “From Here Get creative with a variety of Jewish- tools that they use! Create a picture Crayon”: Brooklyn Center for the themed crafts to choose from! Performing Arts at Brooklyn College, to There,” consisting of 12 interactive that shows what you want to be when exhibits, helping kids explore transpor- “Sleeping Beauty”: Puppetworks, you grow up. 2900 Campus Rd., between Amers- fort Place and Kenilworth Place; (718) tation by land, sea, and air, and the 338 Sixth Ave. at Fourth Street; (718) Carousel opening: Noon–5 pm. 951–4500; www.brooklyncenteron- mechanics that go into it. 965–3391; www.puppetworks.org; Children’s Corner (Willink entrance). line.org; 2 pm; $9. Ice skating: Lefrak Center in Saturdays and Sundays, 12:30 pm and See Thursday, March 26. As part of the Target Storybook Se- Prospect Park, Parkside and Ocean 2:30 pm, Now – Sun, March 29; $9 ries, Enchantment Theater Company avenues; (718) 594–7439; info@ ($10 adults). Sun, March 29 performs this story of a young boy brooklynice.org; www.brooklynice. The classic fairy tale is brought to who creates worlds to explore, using org; Tuesdays – Thursdays, 11 am–6 life through the wonderful puppetry In Brooklyn his imagination and his trusty purple pm, Fridays, 11 am–8 pm, Saturdays, of marionette artist Nicolas Coppola. Nature Playtime: 10:30 am – crayon. Recommended for children 4 10 am–9 pm, Sundays, 10 am–6 pm, Recommended for children 4 years 12:30 pm. Prospect Park Zoo. See years and older. Now – Tues, March 31; $6 ($8 on Sat. and older. Sunday, March 1. Emerging company perfor- and Sun) plus $6 skate rental. Needlework and games: Lefferts Families have a great time twirling Historic Homestead, 452 Flatbush Ave. Me and My Community: Brook- mances: 3 pm and 6 pm. The Actors and skating and enjoying the rink. between Empire Boulevard and East- lyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Fund Arts Center. See Sunday, March ern Parkway; (718) 789–2822; www. Ave. at St. Marks Avenue; (718) 735– 22. Nature playtime: Prospect Park prospectpark.org; Saturdays and Sun- 4400; www.brooklynkids.org; 11:30 Zoo, 450 Flatbush Ave. at Ocean days, 1–3 pm,; $3. am; Free with museum admission. Tues, March 31 Avenue; (718) 399–7339; www. Learn about the roles of different prospectparkzoo.com; Sundays, 10:30 Join in with staff and make a small community helpers by examining the In Brooklyn am–12:30 pm, Now – Sun, April 26; sampler and play board games. tools that they use! Create a picture Toddler Tuesdays: 9:30 am– noon. Free with zoo admission. Movie Matinees: BAM Rose Cin- that shows what you want to be when LeFrak Center at Lakeside. See Tues- The workshops are designed to help emas, 30 Lafayette Ave. between 62 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 Our online calendar is updated daily at www.NYParenting.com/calendar Calendar Lafayatte Avenue and Hanson Place; Public Library, 2808 Gerritsen Ave. developing artistic skills. Queens; (718) 699–0005 X 353; (718) 636–4100; www.bam.org; between Bartlett Place and Gotham www.nyscience.org; Weekdays, 9:30 Reading is Fundamental: Ger- Sundays, 2 pm, now – Sun, June 7; Avenue; (718) 368–1435; www. am–5 pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10 ritsen Beach Public Library, 2808 Ger- $7 children ($10 adults and $9 for brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Thursdays, am–6 pm; $5plus museum admission. ritsen Ave. between Bartlett Place and members)). 10:30–11:30 am, now – Thurs, May Gotham Avenue; (718) 368–1435; Children are encouraged to explore 14; Free. science through slides, seesaws, climb- Curated by BAMcinematek, the se- www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Fri- ries offers families an introduction to ing webs, a water play area, sand Books, songs and rhymes for babies days, 2 pm; Free. the classic films and new indie selec- to 18 months. boxes, and more, weather permitting. tions. From Charlie Chaplin to Walter Kids receive a free book when they Ken Siegleman’s Poetry out- Rocket Park mini Golf: new Lang. sign up, on their birthday, and every reach: Barnes and noble, 267 Sev- third week if they checkout two books york Hall of Science, 47-01 111th “The african Drum”: PS 3 The enth Ave. at Sixth Street; (718) 832– per week. St., Queens; (718) 699–0005 X 353; Bedford Village School, 50 Jeffer- 9066; www.barnesandnoble.com; www.nyscience.org; Saturdays and Game On! Board Games: Sunset son Ave. at Franklin Avenue; (212) Thursdays, 6:30 pm,; Free. Sundays, 10 am–6 pm; $6 (adults,) $5 Park Public Library, 5108 Fourth Ave. 724–0677; www.shadowboxtheatre. Anthony Vigorito hosts a night of (children and seniors,) plus museum org; Wednesday, March 4, 10:30 am; at 51st Street; (718) 965–6533; www. admission. poetry featuring guest poets each brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Fridays, Thursday, March 5, 10:30 am; Friday, week. For teens and adults. Golfers of all ages can learn about March 6, 10:30 am; Monday, March 9, 3:30–5 pm; Free. key science concepts such as propul- 10:30 am; Tuesday, March 10, 10:30 Toys, Games, and Puzzles: Ger- Kids play games such as Connect 4, sion, gravity, escape velocity, launch am; Wednesday, March 11, 10:30 am; ritsen Beach Public Library, 2808 Ger- uno, Clue, and Monopoly. window, gravitational assist, and more! ritsen Ave. between Bartlett Place and Friday, March 13, 10:30 am; $10 in Tween Teen Tech Time: Sunset Gotham Avenue; (718) 368–1435; “Galapagos – Nature’s Wonder- advance ($15 at the door; $8 group Park Public Library, 5108 Fourth Ave. www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Fri- land in 3D”: new york Hall of Sci- rates). at 51st Street; (718) 965–6533; www. days, 10:30 am–11:30 am; Free. ence, 47-01 111th St., Queens; (718) Listen to the wit, wisdom, and brooklynpubliclibrary.org; Fridays, 699–0005 X 353; www.nyscience. Playtime for kids aged infat to 5. humor of traditional folk tales and 3:30–5 pm; Free. org; Weekdays, 11 am & 2 pm, Sat- learn how the turtle got its shell, and art Kids: Brooklyn Children’s Mu- Tweens and teens enjoy books, nin- urdays and Sundays, 1 & 3 pm,; $6 three more African fables woven into seum, 145 Brooklyn Ave. at St. Marks tendo and Playstation videogames, adults; $5 children. an interactive shadow puppet ad- Avenue; (718) 735–4400; www. and music, while participating in Read- in this 3D movie, travel to the Gala- venture of little Kjana and her animal brooklynkids.org; Fridays, 11:30 am ing is Fundamental. pagos archipelago to meet giant half- friends. Presented by the Shadow Box and 2:30 pm, now – Fri, March 6; Free ton tortoises and marine iguanas that Theatre. with museum admission. FURTHER AFIELD spit sea-salt from their noses, hunt Babies and Books with Reading Children explore a new style of art Science Playground: new york fishes with the colorful blue-footed is Fundamental: Gerritsen Beach and discover the artistic process while Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., boobies, and swim with tiny penguins. ADVERTISE WITH US! BROOKLYN QUEENS BRONX STATEN ISLAND MANHATTAN Family Family Family Family Family

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March 2015 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 63 New & Noteworthy By Lisa J. Curtis What a card! ometimes, you want to send a very special birthday greet- S ing to that great kid. And that’s when you’ll want to pull out a Play- Deco wooden birthday card by Mag- note. The letters pop out (by the recipient) and make a robot that can hold the mini message card that you filled out and mailed with the 8.5-inch by 6.5-inch board. (Note: It’s not for children ages three and younger, because of the small pieces.) This 3-D puzzle — available in pink, green, or orange — will have Play-Deco Happy Birthday Greeting your pen pal saying “Domo arigato, Card by Magnote, $7.95, www.store.mag- Mr. Robot-o” in no time. note.com. Dino-mite surprises f the Easter Bunny needed a rus, Stegosaurus, and Triceratops Ranging near and far sugar-free idea to help fill a bas- — are hand-painted, and at just I ket, he should check out Safari two-inches long, are super cute. here are a mountain of rea- “Over in the Meadow” (easily found Ltd.’s new set of four baby dino- They are certain to make a mem- sons to love Marianne Berkes’ on Google for those of us who can’t saurs, each in its own crackable ory that will go down in prehistory. T“Over on a Mountain: Some- read music), incorporates counting to egg. All four of the different dinos Baby Eggs Set by Safari Ltd, $14.99, where in the World,” which features 10 and a rich vocabulary. — Tyrannosaurus rex, Brachiosau- www.safariltd.com. mountain ranges Recommended for kids ages 3–8, from around the the book offers a fun challenge for globe, depicted in older readers: finding the creature hid- amazing collages den in each illustration, a great way to This game’s a lava riot by Pratt Institute introduce the concept of camouflage. grad Jill Dubin. “Tips from the Author” offers ideas he Magic School Bus Science when they see the illus- Berkes’s rhyming for parents and educators on how to Explosion game has kids on tration of the exuberant text, which can further explore the book’s themes. T the edges of their seats as science teacher Ms. Friz- also be sung to “Over on a Mountain: Somewhere in they compete to be the first to set zle, a familiar character the tune of the the World” book by Marianne Berkes, off the volcano in the center of the from Scholastic’s Magic traditional song $8.95, www.dawnpub.com. board. Along the way, they learn School Bus book series about scientific fields of study. penned by Joanna Cole The players can’t help but and Bruce Degen. erupt in smiles Recommended for kids ages Admit fun! 5 and up, Science Explosion is really two-games-in-one, ovie night will be more fun with more reading required when the kids are selling in one version of the game M tickets, running the pro- and matching and strategy jector, and narrating the show with applied in the easier version. Moulin Roty’s new Cinema Box (Au The set includes a laminated, Cinema Ce Soir) — a portable movie two-sided board; volcano; theater that can be stored on a book- bowl; measuring cups; and shelf when the show’s wrapped. game cards — for two to four Moulin Roty has expanded on the players. You supply the bak- idea of the classic View-Master with ing soda and vinegar, for lots this set, but instead of one person under the lid of the box. of good, clean fun. enjoying a disc of pictures, the child It is then up to the child to invent The Magic School Bus Sci- — ideally ages 4 and older — uses the script for the five discs of slides. ence Explosion, $29.99, www. TheY- the flashlight to project a disc of il- Cinema Box by Moulin Roty, $40, oungScientistsClub.com. lustrations onto the white screen www.bonjourpetit.com. 64 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 New & Noteworthy theMarketplace By Lisa J. Curtis BALLET FAMILY LAW ICE SKATING What a card! 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NYParenting Tortoise • Chinchilla • Hedgehog • Alligator • Snakes & Bugs All Occasions March 2015 • BROOKLYN FamiLY 65 HealtHy eating Boning up on health s long as their chil- Sheats, director of dietetics dren are growing programs at St. Catherine A normally, most par- University in Minnesota, con- ents are largely unconcerned cerned. about the health of their “Many parents think kids’ bones. After all, osteo- they’re equivalent, but they’re porosis is for old people, not equal at all,” says Sheats. right? “Dairy milk contains nine es- Good sense Not so fast. According to a sential nutrients. The white recent report by the Ameri- beverages made with plant eatinG can Academy of Pediatrics, sources don’t necessarily con- Christine M. PaluMbo, rD osteoporosis may have its tain these nutrients.” roots in the bone mass ac- Children who drink alterna- quired in childhood and ado- tive milks are twice as likely lescence. to have low vitamin D levels, Lifestyle factors — con- according to a new study pub- suming enough calcium and lished in the Canadian Medical vitamin D, plus weight-bear- Association Journal. ing activity — all factor in. “In Canada, as well as the It’s no secret that physical U.S., vitamin D levels vary in activity has changed for many non-cow’s milk beverages,” says children compared to a genera- Dr. Jonathon Maguire of the Uni- tion ago. Recess is short, phys- versity of Toronto. ical education is often weak, Vitamin D is a fat-soluble hor- and kids don’t necessarily walk mone necessary for calcium ab- to school or play outside with sorption and utilization. Without their friends. it, only 10 to 15 percent of dietary The Academy report urges calcium is absorbed. kids to exercise to strengthen Another nutrient of concern to their bones. Jumping, skipping, Sheats is calcium. running, and dancing are some “Often, these milk substitutes enjoyable weight-bearing exer- have calcium added. But there’s cises. Some sports that include a fair amount of data that the form these are rowing, tennis, volleyball, of calcium is not absorbed as well karate, soccer, basketball, gymnas- choosing plant-based milk bever- as dairy milk. It probably has to do tics, and cheerleading. ages in lieu of dairy milk because with the fact that milk has lactose of perceived health benefits, milk and vitamin D. Often, these milks nutrition allergies, or lactose intolerance. are lactose free.” Today’s parents are increasingly And this has Debra Barone The pediatricians’ report does not recommend calcium supple- ments. i beg your parsnips olive oil and lay them on the baking Other nutrients of concern high- sheet. Lightly sprinkle with cracked lighted in the report include pro- serve these matchstick fries as a pepper on both sides. Bake the fries tein and sodium. Diets too low in super tasty and healthy alternative to for about 25 minutes, flipping them protein or too high in sodium tend French fries. they’re fun to eat and over halfway through. they are ready to reduce the body’s retention of packed with flavor. when they are cooked completely, calcium. serves 2 (1⁄2 cup per serving) crispy, and slightly brown. as you Finally, caffeine, found in energy INGREDIENTS: allow them to cool, sprinkle with drinks, colas, and coffee drinks, pepper and salt to taste. olive oil cooking spray is also linked to decreased bone mass, the study found. 1 large parsnip (about 9 inches long, NUTRITION FACTS: 50 calories, 0 g Christine Palumbo is a Naperville- 5 ounces), peeled total fat and cholesterol, 7 mg sodi- registered dietitian nutritionist who is a Cracked black pepper um, 12 g carbohydrates, 3 g dietary fiber, 3 g sugars, 1 g protein. Percent new Fellow of the American Academy salt to taste daily Value: Vitamin C 19 percent, of Nutrition and Dietetics. She’s grateful DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to calcium 2 percent, iron 2 percent. she did plenty of weight bearing activity as a kid. Follow her on Twitter @Palum- 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet long, thin strips, using a very sharp Used with permission from The Nutrition Twins’ with parchment paper. to make knife, or a mandoline if you have Veggie Cure by Tammy Lakatos Shames, RDN & Lys- boRD, Facebook at Christine Palumbo “matchsticks,” cut the parsnips into one. spray the parsnip sticks with sie Lakatos, RDN. Nutrition, or Chris@ChristinePalumbo. com.

66 BROOKLYN Family • March 2015 The NCE CIE at the Cosmic Cove! S

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Teaching kids about themselves, about others, the world, and about 11 Wyckoff Street the environment, through hands-on Brooklyn, NY 11201 inquiry based science. for more info: 347-844-9699 For Ages 2.5 to 5 years old 718-344-4631

www.brooklynpreschoolofscience.com In honor of our 15 year anniversary we’re giving away 2 WEEKS of FREE CAMP & other awesome prizes!* Go to www.oasischildren.com/sweepstakeswwwwww.oasischildren.com/sweepstakeswwwwww to enter! GOOD LUCK! *For a complete list of sweepstakes rules please visit wwwww.oasischildren.com/sweepstakes or call 800-317-1392.

in Brooklyn Bridge Park at St. Francis College • Traditional Day Camp C for kids ages 5-11 • Early Start Imagination Camp for pre-K kids ages 3-5 • Teen Travel for emerging teens ages 12-14 • 8:30am-5:30pm with extended hours available • Beautiful outdoor facilities • Ample air-conditioned indoor space • Sports, Visual & Performing Arts, Outdoor Adventure • Daily Red Cross Swim Instruction • Hot Lunch & Transportation available • Low Ratios with Mature Staff • Flexible enrollment for 2-8 weeks Join us at our next info session! Saturday, March 28 • 11am • St. Francis College • 180 Remsen St. Call us at 800.317.1392 or visit us online at oasischildren.com